Stories and Patrol Logs + Screenshots and Videos (merged) [Archive] - Page 21

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propbeanie

03-02-20, 08:44 PM

:yeah:

Are you doing the rest of the interior, or just what is already there with that "doorway to the future"?... lol :arrgh!:
:salute:

razark

03-02-20, 10:33 PM

coming soon:ping:
:oI've seen efforts to do this before, so I'm not going to get all excited about it.

That said, I have to say I'm quite excited at the possibility!

vickers03

03-03-20, 02:28 AM

:oI've seen efforts to do this before, so I'm not going to get all excited about it.
room is finished and fully working:03:

Are you doing the rest of the interior, or just what is already there with that "doorway to the future"?... lol
you mean the whole fleetboat? maybe..

Kieldk

03-03-20, 03:14 AM

https://s19.directupload.net/images/200303/r2tc5lnz.jpg (https://www.directupload.net)
coming soon:ping:

Wow!!!

Looking good

vickers03

03-03-20, 05:47 AM

btw, can someone tell me where the captains cabin in the s-class is located?

propbeanie

03-03-20, 07:11 AM

Well... The San Francisco Maritime National Park Association has BOOKLETS OF GENERAL PLANS ONLINE (https://maritime.org/doc/plans/), which has a link for the S-26 - but it appears to be the only link not functioning at this time... I was looking for a link on their site to contact them with, or a web master link, but haven't found one yet... Some of the plans are "full", some are only the outer drawings, but some do have the interiors... Seems to me that the S-26 link used to show the interior, but I might be remembering a weird dream... :roll: :o :salute:

I wonder if they have something on Facebook to contact them through?...

vickers03

03-03-20, 11:16 AM

thanks, i got it. i think the captains room must be in the back where the officer berthing is:
https://s19.directupload.net/images/200303/temp/2ameoyt7.jpg (https://www.directupload.net/file/d/5747/2ameoyt7_jpg.htm)

propbeanie

03-03-20, 11:36 AM

Very nice find. Yes, I agree with you on the location. :salute:

Kal_Maximus_U669

03-26-20, 11:14 AM

In Patrol
https://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2020/13/4/1585238555-uss.png
first victims
https://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2020/13/4/1585239804-002.png

https://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2020/13/4/1585239857-uss.png

https://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2020/13/4/1585239911-capture.jpg

https://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2020/13/4/1585239988-001.png

Really nice this mods fotrs

Rinaldi

04-02-20, 06:28 AM

Hey, this thing still on? Quarantine living sees me return to SHIV, running FOTRSU. A little older, a little wiser and (courtesy of Cold Waters) with a much better understanding of hydroacoustics. Boy did it show, an absolute hell of a start of a career in the USS Skate.

Jan 11th, 1944 - Ordered to depart Midway UT, USA to partake in anti-shipping operations for period of 5 days in East China Sea.

https://i.imgur.com/dXxfLo7.png

Relatively uneventful crossing, engaged and destroyed a Japanese-flagged crab vessel just off the Ryuku Islands on January 25th.

On station January 26th. Didn't have to wait long for contact, 5 on radar scope, small convoy of some sort. We come for them at night, January 27th. Fired a spread, hit two of them, only sunk one. Wounded one took a bow hit and didn't seem to mind one bit. Good thermal layer at 180 feet. Escorts none the wiser. Second and third attacks: simply atrocious. Can feel eyebrows on the ratings arching. Skipper obviously has to shake off some rust, some introspection brought the conclusion that he was being an absolute ninny over AOB. Accuracy went up remarkably after that.

https://i.imgur.com/GWikIeO.png

Chance to redeem himself arrived on January 31st, an unescorted oiler. Set up for a stern attack and once again came for her in the night. Three fired, three hits! Outstanding. She breaks up quickly. Surface and knife past the many survivors; they're too shellshocked to do more than glower at us. We rammed a lifeboat too damned fool enough to get out of our way, though I'm not inclined to be sympathetic.

https://i.imgur.com/3qH5jla.png

The sinking of the oiler coincided with the end of our time on station. A belly full of reloads and plenty of fuel left meant a request for further orders and COMSUBPAC delivered. Off to just beyond the Luzon Straits for a further 5 days.

https://i.imgur.com/ZZw2JNn.png

Patrol zone would prove largely a bust. Chased a few phantom convoys from naval 'intelligence' but ultimately nothing to show for our efforts save a few Rising-Sun flagged crabbers.

https://i.imgur.com/cUo3Wyb.png

Yet another zone given, this time in the Sulu Sea. First though, and against better judgment, we chased another report from intelligence.

https://i.imgur.com/2gjqNxz.png

Proving that miracles do happen, this one turned out to be accurate. Radar contact rapidly turned into visual contact after a gutsy day-time surface run.

https://i.imgur.com/m20dqCO.png

No escorts. Told the boys to dust off the shot and we maneuvered to come up on their stern, by the time the sluggish merchants had started turning to get their bow mounts on, both were as good as sunk.

https://i.imgur.com/VFxSC8R.png

Sulu Sea patrol zone would itself prove to be another nothing burger. Atrocious weather throughout the time there. When it wasn't raining, we were getting heavy swells and fog. For the best in all likelihood, as we were down to three torps and no reloads.

https://i.imgur.com/MTP7bPU.png

This was because the trip in was a bonanza. First, traveling through the Mindoro strait when hydrophone picked up a merchant contact, all alone. Two torps fired astern, and she was gone.

A few days later, as we hugged the edge of the Palawan littoral, radar picked up several contacts traveling in a small convoy. The stalking party got to work, counting fingers and toes, and soon we had worked out an intercept. A few hours later, in moderate swells and a moonless early morning, we came for them. Running on the surface, four torps fired, two a piece for our intended targets; a large whaler and a freighter. The glow-in-the-dark geysers of impacts denoting hits. The whaler rolled quickly and sank slowly, the freighter infuriatingly struggled on with a heavy port list. We turned to starboard and dived, the surface all searchlights, starshells and distress flares. The escort was all bark and no bite, ultimately. Though, she must've had an inkling, as she came uncomfortably close several times and got that freighter out of there. Attack called off after several frustrating hours trying to dodge the slim thing.

https://i.imgur.com/eHcJrai.png

https://i.imgur.com/y7sOaFc.png

https://i.imgur.com/bDcEfM3.png

Fine piece of work, frankly. Stalking party got pats on the back all around.

https://i.imgur.com/ZC6T38O.png

Trip home uneventful despite some rude interludes from snooping planes. Went through the many seas of the Philippines, and used what little ammo we had left on fishing vessels unfortunate enough to be flying the meatball ensign. Bofors got some licks in when we did a daytime periscope sweep and spotted a pair of the unfortunates.

https://i.imgur.com/P1q7nN0.png

Home on March 11, 1944. 61 days and richly rewarded for it; no one talked about the incident with the lifeboat and I wasn't inclined to jog their memories.

https://i.imgur.com/4pQdtHB.png

https://i.imgur.com/nSzgt2q.png

mr chris

05-14-20, 02:21 PM

https://i.postimg.cc/0jVds5Qy/sh4-Screenshot-2020-05-14-18-32-51-43.png

Admiral Lutjens

05-20-20, 11:10 PM

Gentlemen,

My name is LCDR Richard Callahan, USN.

I have just been selected to command the brand-spankin' new Balao-class submarine USS Greenling (SS-213).

https://imagehost.imageupload.net/2020/05/21/Sh4_Seq001_000000.png

And we're off San Francisco Bay to start sea trials!

https://imagehost.imageupload.net/2020/05/21/SH4Img2020-05-20_23.53.12_098.png

Admiral Lutjens

05-20-20, 11:19 PM

Returning after sea trials! Now off to take it to the Empire!

https://imagehost.imageupload.net/2020/05/21/SH4Img2020-05-21_00.18.28_663.png

Admiral Lutjens

05-20-20, 11:40 PM

Quick stop at Midway to replenish and refuel:

https://imagehost.imageupload.net/2020/05/21/SH4Img2020-05-21_00.39.12_116.png

Admiral Lutjens

05-21-20, 01:28 AM

Assigned to Area 7 off of Honshu, we had quite the patrol!

Splashed a bunch of aircraft and put some Jap merchants to the bottom!

First, a merchant NW of Wake. First kill on first patrol of the war!:

https://imagehost.imageupload.net/2020/05/21/SH4Img2020-05-21_00.48.40_655.png

https://imagehost.imageupload.net/2020/05/21/SH4Img2020-05-21_00.49.11_505.png

Issa hit!

https://imagehost.imageupload.net/2020/05/21/SH4Img2020-05-21_00.49.53_605.png

Down she goes!

https://imagehost.imageupload.net/2020/05/21/SH4Img2020-05-21_00.51.21_625.png

V-trucker

06-14-20, 07:11 PM

I decide to make a new career and I receive the order to patrol East China Sea. While in site with bad visibility by a heavy fog, I watched a mark in the map of a "single ship", then mark of the "same ship", So I decide to hunt it and I started my movements, using sonar to calculate the distance and bearing, then after almost 8 hours, I got the surprise that the ship is a convoy. But at the end, I ended in bad position 'cause needed to do a 180 degrees to attack and I sended the ship to the deep.

https://i.imgur.com/5ToxRUF.png
https://i.imgur.com/FTqh3De.png
https://i.imgur.com/eJJr2Qq.png
https://i.imgur.com/A0fuc9b.png

It took like 40 mins to sink:k_confused:

Levyathan89

07-01-20, 02:07 PM

I decided to start a new Let's Play series, this time Silent Hunter 4 with the Dark Waters mod. Here's episode 1...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KynWVszkIwk&lc=Ugz4a7fi_u5WhQMNpTF4AaABAg

Levyathan89

07-01-20, 02:11 PM

...ans here's the brand new episode 2^^

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKSV9lD8uLM

Macgregor the Hammer

07-12-20, 02:35 PM

There seems to be a lot of discussion about realism in play. I write stories about the captains and boats. This is my latest captain:

Captain Ian MacDonald
USS Thresher Personal Log

June 7, 1942
I was finally promoted to Lieutenant Commander. Promotion in the peacetime Navy was incredibly slow and these oak leaves have been a long time coming. The attack on Pearl has changed everything. Admiral Lockwood gave me the gold oak leaves himself.

I was relieved of my command of the USS Seal, a Salmon class boat. I then walked 2 piers down and relieved John Harrison of command of the USS Thresher, a Tambor class. John was promoted to the admiral’s staff. There were about 12 subs in Pearl and Admiral Lockwood wanted the captains to have dinner with him at the Royal Hawaiian hotel.
At dinner, he lined out the expectations of the submarine fleet. He emphasized now that the US Navy’s surface fleet would be out of commission for some time, we would have to be the ‘tip of the spear’ along with the air arm. The huge win at Midway made for high spirits. We finally felt we had the Nips on their heels. Our primary mission was to strangle raw materials. Warships would fair game too. The admiral wanted aggression with caution. He promised to get the Mark 14 issue solved and to provide us with whatever equipment and materials we needed. Admiral Lockwood was well liked in the sub community. During the light banter during dinner, there were numerous comments about my Scottish brogue. Though I have been in America since I was 12, it’s still rather thick. It caused problems at the Academy. I spoke briefly about my origins. I was born in Crinan, Scotland to a family of Herring fishermen. I moved to Maine when I was 12 and worked on my Uncle’s Cod boat. I attended the Academy and graduated in ‘32. Dinner wound down and now it was back to business.

June 8, 1942
The Thresher had spent a week in refit. The generators and electric motors were overhauled, a periscope mast seal replaced, a sonar transducer replaced and some work on the phone circuit was performed. At 0800, I walked up the gangplank, saluted the flag and asked the OOD for permission to come aboard. Clambering my way down the conning tower hatch I was hit with the smells of fresh paint, diesel fuel and disinfectant. The XO had the bilge flushed with freshwater and Lyster, which was a great idea. A boat can get pretty rank on a patrol. It was a nicer boat than the Seal. I found the XO Mike Ellison, clipboard in hand coming from the forward torpedo. He was the only officer on board except the OOD. I asked him to join me in the wardroom. I dismissed the mess boys to guarantee privacy. The Messboys have a habit of ‘being seen without being seen’ and probably the best source of information on the boat.

I sat down with Lieutenant Ellison for an impromptu chat about my expectations. I found Ellison very open minded and willing. I told him that I am always open to new ideas. We discussed the new crew members and how we needed to get them qualified. I ordered Mike to draft a training syllabus and we would review it together. I needed something better than the standard Navy training. We discussed the post overhaul sea trials. We didn’t really have the time so we would do what we could on our way to Midway, our new home. The crew would be returning from liberty tomorrow.

June 9, 1942
I had settled into my state room and walked through the boat. The crew was still in their whites waiting to be called to quarters. Conversation died down when I entered which was no surprise. I asked them if they had a good liberty and if the Royal Hawaiian Hotel was still standing. That got a laugh and relieved some tension. Admiral Lockwood had made the hotel available to submarine crews back from patrol. I dressed in my khakis with a jacket and told Mike to have the crew fall into quarters on the pier.
“Men, we are sailing into harm’s way with the intention of bringing the war to Japan’s doorstep. With most of our surface fleet out of commission; the submarine fleet, along with the air wing, are all that stands in the way of Japan’s expansionism and survival.
As you all know, Japan doesn’t have any natural resources, they’re dependent on their conquests to supply her war machine. We are going to change that!
I expect nothing but the absolute best in your performance of duties! Myself and your division heads will give you the best in leadership. We have an excellent boat! I had Mr. COB buy a brand new straw broom to hoist on our way back in!
We have stores and fish to load. Mr. D’Agostino, line up a battery charge. Mr. Ellison, dismiss the ship’s company and carry on with the plan of the day.

June 10, 1942
Set sail for Midway at 0600. Mild weather and smooth sailing. The crew changed into their ‘patrol uniform’: cut-off dungaree trousers and athletic shoes or sandals. I put on my cut-off wash khaki trousers, khaki shirt with cut-off sleeves and my black Converse high-tops. The shoes along with my grandmother's clan MacDonald scarf are my lucky charms. All submariners are superstitious.

The captain of a sub is a complicated roll. Part father figure, authoritarian and always decisive. My dress let them know I’m one of them; I am a true submariner and not some ‘skimmer pilot’. I made it a point to walk all compartments and talk to the enlisted. I read most of their personnel jackets, but I still make it a point to ask them where they're from, have they been getting their mail, etc. Mike Ellison was the XO on the last patrol and demonstrated his approval of me. He mentioned the Seal and my last patrol in the Aleutians. I sunk 6 merchants and 2 destroyers after the captain took ill. That gave me a considerable amount of credibility. John Harrison sunk 2 merchants on his last patrol. That’s why he was relieved; he didn’t have the aggression Admiral Lockwood was looking for. Before the war, subs were considered scout and recon ships. There are a number of skippers being relieved because they can’t adapt to this new role.

We started running drills. Gas alarm in the forward battery compartment, Flooding in aft torpedo, switch box fire with no lights, crash dive to 200 ft, emergency blow, emergency flank then emergency back, running submerged for 12 hours, loss of phone circuits, battle stations surface action, etc. This went on for 6 days. I wore them out. I believe in the axiom “Bleed in training, sweat in combat!” We pulled into Midway, topped off our fuel and I gave the crew 96 hours on the beach. Unfortunately, not much to do. The base was so new there wasn’t much recreation save a 4 can beer ration. I was given the final orders to be opened after 48 hours at sea. We depart at 0200 on the 20th.

Sniper297

07-19-20, 10:17 PM

Strange glitch I run across sometimes, ships "placed on water" instead of IN the water.

https://scontent-msp1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/10854299_928636037180677_2487704518452759925_o.jpg ?_nc_cat=106&_nc_sid=e007fa&_nc_ohc=1VI3LFiIZSMAX_kfiCT&_nc_ht=scontent-msp1-1.xx&oh=c03b6304f3b239dd6c074c1f593694de&oe=5F38EEFD

Sometimes I get those, and they ride so high a torpedo set for 10 feet scoots right underneath, have to set for 5 feet to actually hit the bottom. Only happens occasionally, no explanation ever found.

Today I had the opposite. Attacked a task force with 5 BBs, 2 in one column 3 in the other. Being close to a resupply base I took the closest column of 3, expended all torpedoes and sank all three, leaving two undamaged following a light cruiser. Charged off to the resupply base and reloaded torpedoes, losing contact with the remainder of the formation. Plotted an intercept course and regained contact, ran ahead and submerged.

Shifted to outside view, and on inspection found the two remaining BBs - which I never even fired at - running low in the water, decks awash, small fires on the superstructure, making the creaking groaning breakup noises. :doh:
Sank both with two torpedoes each. Very weird glitch, that the two ships that were undamaged somehow got severely damaged after I lost contact. Didn't affect the light cruiser.

Bubblehead1980

07-24-20, 02:56 PM

TMO 2.5 100 realism
October 24 1944
Balabac Strait, Philippines
USS Dace (Gato)

Departed on patrol on September 20, patrolling off Palawan in Area D6. A running battle on a large convoy(13 ships, 6 escorts, most with radar) began at 2200 October 15 and ended at 1800 October 17 hugging coast left 6 ships destroyed, torpedoes expended and low on fuel. Since had not be out on patrol that long, headed to Mios Woendi to refuel and rearm. After refueling and rearming, headed back to patrol area at best speed. Entering Balabac Strait during the daytime (forget exact time in game) on October 24, a storm was raging. Fog, rain, clouds, visibility very low, moderate seas. While about midway through the strait, the APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver began detecting many signals. Then radar made contact on a group of ships heading East through the strait. Judging by the formation and plethora of radar signals, as well as the obvious speed the contacts were moving, was obvious we had a task force of some sort, went to GQ.

Due to weather and speed of contacts, visual ID would be impossible. Decided to shoot on radar bearings alone(the 3D TDC and radar mod incorporated in TMO makes this possible) and would use a spread of six Mark 14 torpedoes, providing a decent chance of hits. I chose a firing point as 2500 yards off the task forces projected track. I closed in on the surface since the storm would prevent visual identification and japanese radar, while a concern is not the best at detecting submarines(typically), so chanced it.

At 3000 yards off the track I decided could fire.As I was preparing to fire, checked radar scope. Noticed the lead escort had fallen out of position and was heading directly towards me. Coincidence? Just an escort making a sweep? I then noticed on the TDC the solution was changing and the main body of the formation was moving off to south slightly, ruining the shot. . Yep, their radar had picked me up and the lead escort was coming to check out the contact.

I was hoping to salvage the shot and use the weather to evade the escort and get in close to the main body(which was in a single file battle line, about 1000 meters or so apart). I also noticed the port flank escort was now heading towards me as well. The lead escort was now just 1500 yards away and closing in on me. Their radar had me. I turned toward him for a zero AOB, for a "down the throat" shot, but never been able to do this without seeing the target lol. In the fog and rain I could just make out his signal light on his mast, so used it as a reference and sent bearing via TBT(in the storm, on the bridge) . Since did not know what was shooting out, I had torpedoes set shallow depth already. Radar now had the closing DD at 1000 yards(normally wait for 650-700 yards in a down the throat shot but since he could not see the torpedoes, I fired two torpedoes and ordered a dive. The boat slide under quickly as the DD roared overhead.The "clank" of the one torpedo hitting the steel hull was clearly audible. Not dud as by Oct 44, the issue was fixed, but the torpedoes did not have sufficient time to make their run and arm due to the high closing speeds of my self at 20 knots on surface and the DD at 20+ knots. The DD dropped a nice pattern of depth charges which exploded above us. Balabac is not a deep strait but we were in the middle so had plenty of water to hide, plus with the storm, not exactly ideal sonar conditions. For good measure, we dropped a decoy at 150 feet. Soon we heard a torpedo explosion and a report of a torpedo impact was made.Not sure what we hit, but obviously something in the battle line as the second torpedo missed the DD during the initial shot. What luck.

Three destroyers dropped some charges in the area, a few came close on one run by chance, then the contacts faded off sonar, they had left the area. Surfaced, hoping for a wounded straggler to finish off but scope was clear. Continued on to the patrol area and few days later, found a convoy of six large tankers with 6 escorts heading North up the coast in shallow water. Attacked October 30-31, sinking four of six tankers and one escort(he moved in front of three torpedoes meant for a tanker) . Returned home November 8. Successful patrol full of tense moments.

Definitely a tense moment attacking the TF and also the bad luck to run into them in a bottleneck but during a storm so no visual id possible. Would have been a relatively easy submerged shot under normal conditions. Pretty intense moment with the DD bearing down on surface when range so close.Tried to load a screenshot, but won't work.

Note: This most likely was Nishimura's "Southern Force" en route to Surigao Strait for the battle on Oct 25. This force left Brunei and transited Balabac Strait then Sulu Sea and Bohol Sea towards Surigao Strait and the last battleship v battleship action in history. I added this force to TMO as part of my traffic update. However, this was chance I encountered it as I was simply making my way back to my patrol area from Mios Woendi.

Macgregor the Hammer

07-25-20, 12:15 PM

Good story and well written! Look forward to the next chapter!

MacGregor sends Bravo Zulu!!! :Kaleun_Salute: :Kaleun_Cheers:

Bubblehead1980

07-25-20, 12:42 PM

torpedobait

07-26-20, 12:15 PM

Encountered this as well on last patrol. Running TMO. Had a convoy running coast of Palawan in October 44 and after my initial attack and end around, when I reestablished contact, noticed some ships lagging behind and eventually stationary. When got close enough to look, they were on the water, not in it. Prop was out of water or not all the way in.

You will find that if you attack an enemy force and there are allied air resources within range, they will come attack them also. If yo don't leave the area right away, and they are fairly close you will be able to hear their AA guns and see the flak bursts. Fun to watch. However, be prepared to then go down there and rescue the allied pilots. Watch for the pink clouds that mark their life rafts. You won't get renown for picking them up, but still it is the decent thing to do.

:salute:

Bubblehead1980

07-31-20, 08:18 PM

TMO + my traffic updates, later war depth charge mod for ijn and others.

April 30 1945. Kurile Islands, Sea Okhotsk

9th War Patrol of USS Dace(started in Fremantle in January 1944).

Located a 3 ship 8 escort convoy heading south along coast of various islands after departing Matsuwa anchorage. Made a daylight periscope approach. Slipped inside(barely) the starboard screening vessel undetected, Set up on a 14000 ton Nokura Maru tanker and closed just 1500 yards before firing. Fired four Mark 16's at tanker, 2 Mark 14's at the leading freighter. Patrol aircraft flew in and spotted me during torpedo run, dropped depth charges(first sign as to being detected was the explosions) , which missed the boat. The ships were alerted, slowed down and made hard turns, but two Mark 16's hit the tanker, which went up in flames. One Mark 14 found the leading freighter. Went "deep" to 450 ft, flank speed turned west toward deep water, dropped decoys.

Initially lost the escorts but one persistent escort(possibly the otori, external cam off so not sure) stayed on me, decoys did not fool him for long. Eventually two others joined and seemed to have me in the "circle" (of death) . I took the Dace(Gato class) to 550 feet, pushing it for this class of sub. After decoys, seemed to lose them again. Then two suddenly made high speed runs in on me. Multiples charges went off, not close, all above. Then BAM the last one in that pattern, very close right near conning tower. Lights went out, boat shaking heavily. Charge was close enough to cause hull damage to conning tower and control room, flooding in both, bulkhead damage in both. Sonar stack 90 percent damage, TDC damage, pumps damaged, pretty much everything in conning tower and control room was damaged in some way.Worse yet, the flooding was serious, we were now sinking, had to speed up to keep from sinking as we were already near the suspected crush depth.

Naturally, this speed along with securing from silent running so damage control can operate at maximum efficiency broadcast our position. Escorts stayed on us, decoys helped but we took more damage but managed to stay around 370 feet while trying to conduct emergency repairs and pump water. Lost the escorts 4 times but they'd hear us burning along at high speed to keep from sinking. Decoys again helped confuse them, but we took more damage, fortunately nothing too serious.

Finally, the conning tower flooding was stopped and slowly pumped out. The control room took much longer, at one point since had to slow speed to conserve battery power and evade an escort, we sunk to 561 feet before able to regain control. Eventually enough water was pumped could maintain safe depth without excessive speed but just as did, a lone escort came roaring in pinging, had been listening apparently. Dropped 8 close depth charges, damaged forward batteries (total battery was already down to 31 percent after the evasion etc) . Dropped some decoys and made a high speed turn then went silent and to 515 feet. Escort finally lost me but continued searching for hours.

Finally we came to the surface around dusk(2300, short arctic nights) . Attempted to raise periscope, nothing happened. Check damage screen, both periscope heads destroyed. Sound check showed all clear, went to radar depth, SJ radar antenna destroyed as well. SD functional as it detected a distant night patrol plane. We waited it out, then surfaced with just 18 percent battery left and a heavily damaged boat.

With key equipment smashed, we turned for pearl harbor and arrived May 8 1945, VE Day. Next patrol begins May 20 1945, Area 10( Sea of Japan), going to be a rough one.

Bubblehead1980

08-01-20, 03:07 PM

Transited Tsushima Minefields in June 1945, heading for patrol in Area 10 (Sea of Japan). Could not make surface run due to surface and local air patrols. Transited at onyl 32 time compression, intense stuff. Found the "sweet spot" as far as safe depth, a loophole in the minefields.

https://i.ibb.co/h1gxGJY/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-01-44-05-989.png
https://i.ibb.co/8BYtMgb/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-01-44-23-250.png
https://i.ibb.co/3N2zff6/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-01-48-51-795.png
https://i.ibb.co/vzN9r9z/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-01-50-49-801.png
https://i.ibb.co/5GQG8bq/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-01-50-54-286.png
https://i.ibb.co/FqcXQFP/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-01-55-41-361.png
https://i.ibb.co/hdPNGLd/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-01-59-37-792.png
https://i.ibb.co/r5nWHCt/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-02-01-22-451.png
https://i.ibb.co/qyKRqb2/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-02-03-49-938.png
https://i.ibb.co/XxtjYhH/SH4-Img-2020-08-01-02-04-04-127.png

Sniper297

08-03-20, 05:35 PM

Did several of these tutes on the range circles, the pics keep disappearing so;

https://scontent-msp1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/56262374_2333200926724174_3428702744930680832_n.jp g?_nc_cat=107&_nc_sid=e007fa&_nc_ohc=waDo55J03o4AX8MUjkP&_nc_ht=scontent-msp1-1.xx&oh=c7be1d1526cb759fc3ff8953a6a0bfe8&oe=5F4DF25D

Numbers at bottom right are the max range and average range, all circles are average, so you COULD possibly be detected outside the circle. Inside the circle you're asking for it. :doh: Radar applies to late war for the IJN, active and passive sonar applies only to escorts, the visual circle is any ship or boat including merchants, as long as they have lookouts.

So when do they not have lookouts? Knocked off two cruisers, damaged two carriers, and sank what I thought was all the escorts leaving two damaged carriers and two troop transports. Battle surface, finish all these off with the 4 inch 50. :up: While firing at the slowly moving Hiryu, suddenly a destroyer appeared behind it - apparently I lost count. First lucky shot from the deck gun blew up his bridge.

https://scontent-msp1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/117171270_3379510185426571_915853214653592993_o.jp g?_nc_cat=100&_nc_sid=e007fa&_nc_ohc=h-spBrkQQ8UAX_0Quq4&_nc_ht=scontent-msp1-1.xx&oh=cd96c6ea9d044853cca9c8bdee099f08&oe=5F4DB762

Note the active and passive sonar circles are there, but no visual circle - no bridge, no lookouts, he can't see me. Sunk him after taking the pics, he never fired a single shot at me. :D

Bubblehead1980

08-03-20, 08:03 PM

June 1945

10th War Patrol of USS Dace. Fourth out of Pearl Harbor after transferring from Fremantle in January 1945 after six highly successful patrols.Assigned area is Area 10- Sea of Japan.

After stopping at Guam for fuel, navigated and plotted the minefields of Tsushima Straits on 8 June 1945(see earlier thread for screenshots). Enter Sea of Japan that night. Morning of June 10th spotted a small fleet of fishing boats and went for battle surface. Several opened fire with light machine guns and auto cannons. 5 inch deck gun crew as well as 40mm and 20mm fire quickly silenced them. Sunk 12 fishing boats. Moved on to open ocean area to interdict traffic between Korea and Japan.

On 11 June made contact with a large troopship of Horai Maru Class escorted by a Matsu Class Destroyer and an Otori Torpedo boat making high speed. Tracked but a pesky patrol plane kept forcing us to dive, eventually spotting us and attacked. Soon an apparent patrol of two DD(Akizuki and Momi) arrived on scene and began screening for the troopship, eventually moving in to hunt us, forcing us to go deep and run silent. They dropped 30 depth charges but none were too close.Once clear, we headed in last known direction of transport as it was now dark, but unable to reestablish contact.

On 13 June off Akita sunk one medium and one small tanker. Small tanker was first hit by a Mark 27 "Cutie" homing torpedo, Mark 16's finished off the other tanker. After the brutal depth charging from six escorts, came to scope depth and found the small tanker dead in the water, prop apparently destroyed by the "Cutie" hit. Surfaced in an attempt to catch up with last tanker but heavy air patrols prevent this. Went out to sea for night time battery charge.

On 14 June was conducting submerged coastal patrol off Nigata. Sunk an Akizuki Destroyer making a high speed run south along the coast.

15 June destroyed 8 fishing boats and sampans.A low flying "Emily" patrol plane dropped a close depth charge, which caused heavy damage to conning tower after a crash dive. Moved out to sea to repair that night.

16 June attacked 2 large merchants with escorts off Tsugaru Strait, sunk both with Mark 18 torpedoes.Prolonged depth charging from the escorts left boat kept us under for 14 hours.

17 June- Destroyed fishing boats, all exploded easily, must have been carrying ammunition.

18 June-Attacked a large Merchant off Nanao Bay. Escorts were top notch and forced a shot from 3900 yards, almost the Mark 18's max range. 2 of four torpdoes hit, leaving vessel crippled. The six escorts were fooled by decoys dropped but kept us down. When cam back to scope depth, merchant was gone, apparently repaired enough to limp away.

19 June- Submerged at dawn and went deep in Toyama Bay. At 0800 made sound contact with multiple ****s. There was a freighter with five escorts, mostly Type C and D. Managed to get to 800 yards off track with perfect shot. Fired last Mark 16's. Both hits, destroying the ship. Escorts soon raced in and dropped many depth charges. Despite decoys and being at 580 feet(at the limit for a gato) they stayed with me. Seas were glassy and calm, ideal sonar conditions. Thought had lost them, but one persistent escort kept coming back every now and then and reestablishing contact. After several hours of this seemed to have escaped again when an escort came close and began pinging away. Dropping a large pattern. Many explosions, none close then suddenly. BAM BAM. Two extremely close explosions. Lights went out, damage reports piled in. The the forward torpedo room was wrecked, flooding, control room and conning tower wrecked with light flooding. Hull damage reported . As tried to climbing away so did not sink to crush depth, suddenly hull collapsed, all was lost.

Sucks losing a career I have been playing for about three months, especially on what was most likely last patrol with end of war so near.

Sad coincidence, during the war, USS Bonefish was lost on June 19, 1945 in Toyoma Bay as well after attacking and sinking a single merchant with five escorts. While I did add this group at this time and location when adding traffic to game a while back, was not aware of it.

Japanese ASW really does get better in SH 4 as war goes on.This, along with more escorts as in real life, made for a tougher experience for US submarines.

Macgregor the Hammer

08-05-20, 08:04 PM

Orders were to patrol the Parlor area NW of Saipan. What little traffic was too far away to set-up an attack. I decided to sniff around Garapan harbor

The set-up:
https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/picture.php?albumid=1317&pictureid=11411 (https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/picture.php?albumid=1317&pictureid=11411)

First hit after 2 duds:
https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/picture.php?albumid=1317&pictureid=11412 (https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/picture.php?albumid=1317&pictureid=11412)

Second hit:

https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/picture.php?albumid=1317&pictureid=11413

Audentes Fortuna Juvat

Mork_417

10-22-20, 10:35 PM

Patrolling the Balayan & Batangas Bays, Dec 41.
https://i.imgur.com/0f075Ghh.jpg

So far have spotted a BUNCH of these...
https://i.imgur.com/TRvbWBbh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/aXvXq2Vh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/n4o6FHPh.jpg
AND...
https://i.imgur.com/deEOxjXh.jpg

:yawn:

Bubblehead1980

02-16-21, 09:23 PM

USS Salmon SS-182 (Salmon Class)
My first patrol in command.
June 6, 1943-July 12, 1943.

TMO 2.5 + my custom mods and traffic.

Area: Southern Hokkaido/Northern Honshu(to Tsugaru Strait)

Departed Pearl Harbor 1100 on 6 June and set course for Midway to refuel before heading to assigned area.

10 June- Fueled at Midway and headed for assigned area at standard speed. Heavy seas and multiple storms slowed transit.

20 June- Arrived in patrol area. Maintained surface patrols with SJ sweeps 50 NM off coast of Southern Hokkaido in the likely shipping routes. Closed coast at night, diving to avoid planes as needed.

21 June- 1130. SJ made lone contact 9 NM. Smoke plume of small freighter became visible. By 1230 was ahead, went to GQ and dove for submerged attack. Identified as 1850 ton TAIHOSAN MARU. Opened tubes one and two. Fired At 1246 fired a Mark 14 aimed amidships from 1000 yards. Possible gyro error as fish did make take proper course. Fired tube two which ran hot straight and normal. Torpedo one hit just ahead of the stern as the freighter spotted the wakes and attempted a turn, but firing distance was too close for them to avoid. Torpedo 2 hit amidships, blowing out the ships boilers, causing a large explosion. TAIHOSAN MARU went down in less than 5 minutes with no survivors. Surfaced and resume patrol, avoiding multiple patrol planes.

22 June- 0600. As the sun was rising, lookouts spotted a fishing boat at 080 6 NM. Went to GQ-Battle Surface and closed at flank speed. Due to a dark sky behind SALMON, we were shielded form view until just 3000 yards when opened fire with 4 inch deck gun and forward twin 20 MM. Two shots from the 4 inch gun hit the fishing vessel in a row starting a fire on the stern. Multiples hits with twin 20 MM set fire to the sails and the pilothouse. The fishing vessel was armed and returned automatic gunfire which did not hit SALMON. Twin 20 MM fire silenced the gunfire and several more hits from the 4 inch cannon finished off the fishing vessel. No survivors. Resumed patrol.

23-26 June shifted patrol closer to Northern Honshu in the Hokkaido-Tsugaru strait shipping lane. Avoided multiple planes. Encountered storms.

26 June -Received orders from COMBSUBPAC to deactivate magnetic influence features on torpedoes. 1300 Weather cleared. SJ contact at 10 NM. Closed in and smoke plume and silhouette of a large freighter in distance. Pulled ahead when freighter changed course, heading directly for Tsugaru Strait. Dove ahead and made classic submerged approach. Identified the 8,000 plus ton ATSUTASAN MARU and fired three Mark 14's from 1000 yards at 1542. First torpedo hit but failed to detonate, making an audible "clang" noise when hitting vessel amidships. Torpedoes two and three detonated on impact, starting a fire and causing a list. Vessel went dead in water but afloat.

Setup for stern tube shot, fired two torpedoes, one of which missed (likely gyro error) but one hit and detonated. ATSUTASAN MARU sunk at 1602 hours.

27 June- Heavy seas and storms. No contacts.

28 June-Submerged patrol near entrance of Tsugaru Strait. Sonar made contact with sounds of heavy props at 1045 hours. Closed to see smoke plume of freighter in distance but made it inside the straits before could close. Resumed submerged patrol, rising to scope depth every thirty minutes for observations and when able, radar sweeps.

At the 1230 observation spotted a large fishing boat estimated 50 yards away nearly on top of submarine. Scope was dropped and depth of 100 feet ordered immediately. After a few minutes, returned to scope depth to see the fishing vessels in the distance, but also spotted a single engine "PETE" type floatplane approaching from the west. It is believed the fishing vessel reported spotting of SALMON's scope. Ordered a depth of 200 feet and changed of course.

At 1334 sonar reported "warships, closing fast." The high speed screws were that of DD or DE type vessels. Plotted evasive course as was still some distance, came to scope depth. Observed two DD types at 030 bow wakes visible, indicating high speed. Set up to pull off their track and make a torpedo attack with stern tubes.

At 1402 after coming back to scope depth and sweeping with No 2 periscope for aircraft, spotted the "PETE" entering a dive. Ordered a depth of 150 feet. Several depth charge explosions went off by not too close. Back to scope depth, the destroyers had changed course, ruining our setup. Opted to try a "down the throat shot" on lead destroyer, tentatively identified as a Mutsuki Class. At 1411, 650 yards away, zero degree AOB. Fired two fish "down the throat" and went deep. Both impacted, both gave the audible clang of "dud" fish, failing to detonate.

Went to 250 feet, rigged for depth charge, silent running. Seems the lead DD, spooked by two fish "impacting" did not make a run on SALMON, but the second DD did, dropping four depth charges in the area.

After a few minutes both regrouped and closed in, seeming to have solid contact, took SALMON to 275, then 300 feet, then 325 and 350 feet (100 feet below test depth), maintaining ahead 1/3 and alternating with 20 degrees port rudder, making slow turn, which confused the pursuers. . Somewhere around twenty depth charges were dropped between two of them. Then suddenly one DD seemed to gain a solid contact momentarily and rushed in, unleashing 4-6 depth charges. Two charges landed very close in quick order causing damage to SALMON.

Damage reported as: After battery, minor flooding. Port prop shaft moderately damaged, electric engines minor damage, minor battery damage. Compressor damaged. High pressure air lines leaking and water leaking into conning tower and control room from damaging piping.

After flooding was controlled, changed depth to 380 feet, changed course. DD's continued their runs, while never seemed to regain solid contact, kept SALMON pinned down. Finally at 2346 seems lost contact. All went quiet, suspect DD's were listening, so continued to creep away. At 0300, came to scope depth, then radar depth. One SJ contact at 8000 yards, stationary. Seems DD was playing possum still. Surfaced in the darkness and sped away to open waters East of Tsugaru Strait.

Conducted repairs, all equipment repairs completed by dawn except for port prop shaft, which would take longer(stayed at 10 percent damaged for some time) which affected surface and submerged speeds, no doubt increasing noise factor submerged as well. Dove to avoid several planes but no contact. Prop shaft repaired.

29 June- Heavy storms, no contacts. Shifted to patrol off Southern Hokkaido. 50 NM off Cape Erimo.

30 June- 1230- SJ contact on multiple vessels. Close to spot two large freighters escorted by a DE type on eastbound course. Worked ahead and dove for submerged attack at 1500. Targets identified as a HAKUSIKA MARU (8850 ton) leading AKITA MARU(3350) with a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat providing escort.

Worked into position and fired four torpedoes at the HAKUSIKA MARU at 1521. One prematurely exploded en route to target (in spite of magnetic detonators turned off) other three impacted target, but failed to detonate. Made a turn for setup with remaining to torpedoes on the AKITA MARU. The Chidori was rushing towards SALMON. Fired both fish at the AKITA MARU from 800 yards. Both failed to detonate as appeared to run under target.

Chidori rushing in pinging, went deep and to silent running. Several depth charges fell, but none close. Seas were heavy and sonar conditions were sub par. After four hours, was able to surface and begin end around. four torpedoes left in bow tubes, would opt for a night surface attack.

0100- Reestablished radar contact. Convoy had moved closed to coast and was approaching Cape Shirepa, Hokkaido. At 0300 was in attack position 4,000 yards off convoys port side. The Chidori out ahead, moved by with SALMON unnoticed. After the escort passed, increased speed to 2/3 so could be in firing position less than 3000 yards. At 0316, with TBT bearing aimed amidships on the HAKUSIKA MARU, fired four torpedoes at 6 second intervals. All torpedoes expended.

All four torpedoes hit, with three detonating, causing large fires and explosions, the maru began to settle in the water. SALMON sped away into the night with star shells lighting the sky. The escort rushed in our direction but never seemed to spot us. The AKITA MARU lobbed a few shells our way, but none were close. The HAKUSIKA MARU sunk at 0330.

With all torpedoes expended, set course for Midway.

1 July-4 July- En route Midway.

5 July-0600- Check of fuel showed could maintain ahead standard and make the 3800 mile trip to Pearl Harbor without need to stop at Midway and adjusted course accordingly.

12 July 0600- Arrived Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. End of patrol.

KaleunMarco

03-05-21, 05:30 PM

Bubblehead1980

03-06-21, 04:36 PM

In the Downloads Forum there is a PDF of a story in the current issue of Naval Institute Proceedings of The Last Cruise of the Halibut.

I thought that you would find it interesting and instructive.

I hope you enjoy it.

The Last Cruise of the Halibut
(https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=5767)

km

Thanks. The story of the Halibut is one of more harrowing ones to come out of the war. The CO for multiple patrols, Admiral I.J. "Pete" Galantin, wrote a book about his time as CO called "Take Her Deep". Excellent read.

Arlo

03-14-21, 06:08 PM

https://youtu.be/Oe4dTix9jkM
When Java fell we were left short on fuel. Couldn't make to the sub base in Freemantle. Barely made it to an Aussie port at all (didn't count, though). That's the reasoning behind the X.O. getting a promo and his own boat (Seadragon).

Bubblehead1980

03-15-21, 02:41 PM

Bubblehead1980

03-16-21, 12:00 AM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods.
100 realism. cams off contacts off.
USS Ling (Balao) SS- 297
6th war patrol
Area 9 Tsushima Straits-Quelpart ISland-Northern East China Sea.

Departed Pearl Harbor on 28 November 1944. Stopped at Guam to refuel. Crossed through the Nansei Shoto between Okinoerabujima and Yoron Islands on 11 December. Around 0300 while transiting the strait between, spotted a fishing boat. Went to GQ and manned the deck guns. As closed in the boat opened fire with machine guns/ auto cannons, with several shots hitting a few yards away. Opened fire and quickly sunk the vessek. An hour later, encountered two more, which also opened fire as we closed, sunk both by gunfire without damage or injury. Arrived in Area 9 just after midnight on 12 December.

As the sun rose about 35 NM E of Quelpart island, dove to avoid an aircraft. After coming to scope depth, spotted another fishing boat. Inspection from 1000 yards revealed an armed boat machine gun/auto cannons. Allowed boat to move out to 6000 yards, went to GQ surfaced for battle surface gun action. Closed and using 5 inch, 40 MM and 20 MM, sunk the vessel without damage to Ling or injury to crew in spite of a hail of automatic gunfire splashing around.

Patrolled south of Quelapart in the lanes approaching Sasebo/Nagasaki and the straits with no luck, just a few planes. That night sifted to patrolling the south ends of Tshushima Straits, On 13 December, before dawn, SJ made contact. A 9 ship 4 escort convoy emerged from the strait between Quelpart Island and Korea. Convoy turned on a NNE course heading for the Tsushima Strait. Pulled ahead and dove just as the son was coming up with about 330 ft of water below the keel.

Approach was standard and luck was on Ling's side the starboard flank escort moved out of position for a sweep, leaving perfect opening for Ling to move into position at the mid sized MADRAS MARU and BIYO MARU. Fired three Mark 14's at each from 1500 yards away. All six hit mortally wounding both freighters.

Just after impact, dropped scope and ordered 350 ft, silent running, rig for depth charged while making a sharp turn to port to head away from convoy and toward deeper waters. Dropped two decoys roughly 1000 yards apart.

Soon I had three escorts in area. A barrage of depth charges exploded several hundred yards behind us, they were on the decoys. However, an escort located Ling and dropped several patterns, causing minor damage to stern tubes, trim pump, sonar gear, and bow tubes. Dropped more decoys and made a 2 minute run at full speed before cutting engines , while speed bled off, in conjunction with a continued turn to port, giving Ling a roughly SSE heading.

Several minutes later it appeared had lost escorts as were working over the decoys, a close and violent explosion went off near the conning tower, causing minor flooding. Suspect this was from an aircraft who spotted us in clear waters or detected via MAD(TMO has MAD, well simulates it). Soon two escorts were closing in but never picked up Ling's trail again as we limped away. Attempted to surface but air cover kept us submerged rest of the day as convoy entered the straits and into the Sea of Japan.

Surfaced after dark completed repairs and moved south as air contacts and surface patrols were near by.

Moved to a position 10 NM W of Quelpart Island in the East China Sea. After diving for a patrol plane at 1101, routine sound check detected props in the distance roughly SSE Ling. Headed in that direction at full speed after surfacing. Around noon made SJ contact on a convoy heading SW. PPI scope soon displayed an 11 ship convoy with 5 escorts. Decided to approach for submerged attack with Mark 18's in stern tubes, worked way inside the screen and was setup to attack when convoy zigged, which put an escort on a course to run right over us. Went "deep" to 250 ft (the bottom) but was detected. Dropped decoys and began standard evasion as in previous attack. Two escorts seemed to have a fix on Ling and several large patterns exploded near us. Forward and stern batteries were damaged, cutting capacity available from 77 percent to fifty 41 percent, damaging pumps, compression and other equipment. Endured several more close patterns before the disturbances, decoys and radical evasions seemed to allow us to lose these two. However, a sleeper (assumed) located us and stormed in with a close large pattern. After torpedo room took on some water, stern tubes and left prop shaft damaged. Dropped more decoys and turned into the escort (based on sound bearings" went ahead flank as charges dropped then made a hard turn , eventually losing the escorts, limping away. Surfaced that afternoon with most damage repaired and reestablished contact, would wait for dark to make a night surface attack. While conducting the end around, forced to dive twice for patrol planes escorting the convoy.

At 2300 went to GQ and closed from port side of the convoy heading for the China coast just south of Shanghai., for one more attempt before convoy was far out of our assigned area.

At 0032, fired six Mark 14's from bow tubes at two large freighters in middle of convoy from 3100 yards. Five of six torpedoes hit intended target, hit one lead freighter caused one apparently carrying volatile cargo (assume ammo?), other was one fire, wounded. Last torpedo that missed the target hit one in the far column, setting it afire.

While turning away after impact spotlight of flank escort, an old Wakatake Class DD shined on Ling and began firing, missing as we sped away. The sub chaser leading convoy turned toward as we sped away at high speed. Seemed to be losing the escorts in the dark when BAM...a shot hit the tip of the bow (later inspection revealed a hole that blew clean through the superstructure (see attached screenshot) . This caused heavy hull damage and damage to the forward torpedo compartment, minor flooding. Soon another problem presented itself, while Ling could outrun the old Wakatake DD and the SC, it could not outrun what appeared to be a DD or DE closing in fast astern, later identified as a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat (DE). Setting up for a "down the throat shot" with Mark 18's in stern tube via aft TBT. The Chidori closed to 3000 yards and fired two Mark 18's, one of which made a circle run. The first apparently run deep and did not impact. Soon SD had a contact coming in and RWR was detecting...we had a night patrol plane coming in. Soon a large flying boat (EMILY) was closing in AA guns set her on fire and her depth charges/bombs missed, but one landed close, causing large splash just of to port. The plane continued trying to strafe ling and apparently tried a suicide dive attempt as in a final dive, it was hit by the 40 MM and crashed off the port side, very close.

The Chidori was now at 2000 yards, turned its spotlight on and opened fire, as did the two other escorts nearby .Used the aft 20 and 40 MM to shoot at the Chidoris spotlight and bridge area. A fire was started and light turned off but Chidori kept chasing firing its deck gun and auto cannons, other two escorts from further away continued firing their deck guns. Soon a hit just aft of the conning tower at waterline hit Ling, causing damage and casualties in the engine room. Followed by a near miss on part side amidships via the Chidori. Just after the near miss both Mark 18's fired moments before hit the Chidori in the bow, she slowed and lost way while turning as Ling limped away dodging shell splashes from the other escorts, unable to close the distance as Ling disappeared into the night.

Assessing damage...hull damage was considerable (70%, Also, I wish we could remove this counter, just know if you take a gun hit, prob need to head for home such as when Bergall did in real life). Luckily had plenty of fuel aboard for high speed transit back to Guam to refuel before proceeding to Pearl Harbor. One CPO and one PO 2 in engine room were seriously injured as was diesels as mac speed was now just 18.5 knots, not the 20.5-21 in an emergency. Multiple other pieces of equipment were damaged,

With such hull damage did not submerged, made multiple SD contacts with planes, but manned AA guns ready to battle if needed, but luckily the light haze in sky kept us hidden . On 18 December exited Nansei Shoto, evading a radar equipped patrol. Arrived at Pearl Harbor via Guam on 30 December.

Result was three merchants....MADRAS MARU (5243 tons) BIYO MARU (5352 tons) and KOBAYASHI MARU (9452 tons) plus the 1500 ton Chidori and damaged a large freighter (8000 tons?) and a smaller freighter (3000) tons.I was awarded a purple heart as were 6 members of the crew. The CPO's health never recovered above 10 percent, so was transferred off the boat.

Ready for next patrol.

(So this patrol along with tests shows need to raise the light factor back to 3.0 instead of 2.9. Most escorts in TMO are set to veteran skill level and apparently when set to vet the 2.9 light factor allows them to easily spot and shoot up a player. Next patrol will test it with 3.0 to see. I had reduced it since 3.0 seemed to blind some escorts, trying to find the balance).

https://i.postimg.cc/9wbMfGMd/Bowhole.png (https://postimg.cc/9wbMfGMd)

Bubblehead1980

03-16-21, 04:51 PM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
USS Ling SS-297
7th patrol
100 realism, contacts off, cams on for visuals (knew would be chance for great screen shots at Iwo and wanted to make sure could see things. While my main career, also use it to test things. )

22 January-4 March 1945
Luzon Straits, Babuyan Islands, and (later) off Iwo Jima to support Operation Detachment.

Departed Pearl Harbor at 1708 on 24 January 1945 for Luzon Straits via Guam.

Refueled at Guam on 1 February , arrived in patrol area after midnight on 6 February.

On Feruary 7th about 100 NM S of Formosa spotted an Akizuki Class Destroyer making 30 knots on course 010m likely toward Takao. Attempted to get close enough for a shot but the 7000 yards was far beyond the Mark 18 torpedo range of our bow or stern tubes. Encountered multiple day and night air patrol but no enemy shipping since lanes had firmly shifted to China coast.

On 8 February at 0100 received an ULTRA stating that the enemy was undertaking a major evacuation effort of certain personnel and materials from Luzon as well as resupply via submarines landing in the Aparri area. Orders were to set up a patrol line in the Babuyan Islands. Arrived there in the afternoon of 8 February and began submerged patrol among the islands, dodging aircraft day and night as well as a radar equipped PT boat that night.

At dawn on 9 February began submerged patrol at the " center" of the channel between Calayan, Dalupin, Fuga, Camiguin and Babuyan Islands with periscope patrols, sound and radar sweeps. , changing course south to head towards Apparri area after dusk. Surfaced after dusk recharged batteries and began patrolling. A light fog, overcast clouds and light rain made visual identification of anything difficult as patrolled between Fuga Island and Camiguin Island. At 0032 the APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver detected radar emissions (since no contacts enabled on the map was unsure what direction, wish this could be fixed to give a bearing in the dialog box or even audible as radar contacts are announced). Stopped for a sound sweep and in the distance, very faint props could be heard to the south. We headed South stopping intermittingly while the RWR was still detecting the emissions.

The prop noises grew stronger and could tell we were closing. Ordered GQ and at 0111 ordered a dive , tracking sound, and occasional radar sweeps. Finally spotted at 3000 yards the very faint silhouette of a surfaced I-Class submarine, difficult to keep track of visually due to the low light conditions. Submarine was on a NW course making 9 knots. Readied all six forward tubes with Mark 18 torpedoes set at minimum depth. Firing point came at 2100 yards. Fired four torpedoes at 6 second intervals to make a spread, dropped scope. Raised scope with 10 seconds until estimated impact and at 0124 all four Mark 18 torpedoes hit the submarine, causing large explosions and the submarine quickly sunk. Surfaced after sonar and radar sweep to clear area. Within 30 minutes a night time patrol plane with radar (APR-1 reported emissions) was in area, we submerged to avoid then surfaced, making an end around back to patrol submerged off Aparri the next day.

Aside from spotting a patrol plane or two, there was no activity during submerged patrol 10 Feb. Surfaced at dusk, recharged batteries and heading to patrol among the Babuyan Islands for the night. At 23:11 APR-1 detected radar signals. Sound sweep revealed faint screws in distance to the south. Closed again as low visibility conditions persisted with light rain.

Went to GQ and located a surfaced submarine off SW Camiguin Island heading SSE. Due to distance to cover for a shot and low visibility, decided to try a night surface attack, keeping bow steady on to avoid giving the radar beam a large target. This seemed to work. At 3700 yards fired four Mark 18's...number four ejected from the tube then took a hard starboard turn into a CIRCULAR RUN! Ordered AHEAD FLANK, full starboard rudder to clear the stern of the submarine of the torpedo. Amazingly, we were not detected as brought sub back to bearing, made quick update to solution fired tubes five and six for good measure. The torpedoes appeared spot on when suddenly, the submarine disappeared from sound, visual, and APR went silent...appears the target submerged (I did add subs in the game to do this every so often, to simulating a sub diving, so my bad luck hit that point.)

We turned away fast showing stern to last known position of sub, and began reloading tubes. Based on the course, estimated sub was heading for the harbor at Palaui Island. We raced to 10 NM off projected track for an end around off S end of Palaui Island. After sometime, APR-1 detected radar emissions and knew was correct. Problem now in order to get solid firing position, would have to make attack in shallows. Tried for another surface attack and planned ot use Mark 18's in stern tubes but enemy radar apparently detected as as she suddenly began zig zagging, constant helming along her course at 11-12 knots. Ling submerged to 56 feet, and closed for bow shot with Mark 14 torpedoes. Sub was zigging moving fast towards the harbor, it was now or never. Fired spread of four Mark 14's from 2700 yards with hull scraping the bottom. (During the turn away, she did touch bottom)

Raised scope at at 0220 and at 0221 two torpedoes impacted the enemy submarine, the first amidships, causing large explosion and ever larger secondary explosion when second hit the bow area (torpedo room?) . The submarine quickly sunk in the shallow waters as we turned to head for deeper waters at flank speed. Once clear of the shore to avoid shore batteries, we surfaced but a night time patrol aircraft kept us down for several hours.

Surfaced at 0500. Recharged batteries and heading away from area as a patrol boat and aircraft were now present. Submerged for the day(due to the proximity to shore among islands, patrolling submerged was necessary, shore batteries and all) at dawn and patrolled among the islands.

Patrolled the evening of the 11th with no contacts other than a night flying patrol plane.

Submerged at dawn on the 12th to patrol off Appari and Palaui Island Sonar could still hear the submarine sunk the previous morning on sonar as it sat on the bottom in the shallows.

Surfaced after dark for battery recharge and patrol among the islands again.

At 0300 radar emissions were detected. Sound revealed nothing so began a pattern search but nothing. (Assuming contact "submerged" as no more reports of radar emissions) Finally detected faint props at 0340 , estimating contact was off Calayan Island . Closed in a full speed. The night was now clear with a qurter moon , so submerged along projected path, hoping for a stern shot.

Finally, along came the submarine at 14 knots heading SE between Calayan and Dalupin Islands. Set up for stern shot and from 1600 yards fired four Mark 18's at 5 second intervals. First three torpedoes impacted target at 0400, decimating it. The final torpedo was on target but passed overhead of the sub as the explosions blew it out of the water, then it went back under as torpedo passed overhead, before the conning tower peaked out as fires burning, before finally sliding under the surface at 0402. Ling surfaced, reloaded tubes, charged batteries and headed south.

Days of continuous submerged patrol with night time patrol revealed no further contacts except patrol planes. Low on fuel and with four torpedoes after and two forward, heading for Guam to refuel and rearm. En route received message about lifeguard duty for air strikes on Iwo Jima and Bonin Islands supporting an invasion on the 19th. With enough fuel to carry out this task, did so instead of heading to Guam. En route observed US surfaces forces bombarding Iwo Jima on the 17th .Proceeded to area off Bonin Islands, rescued two rafts with down aircrew on Feb 18th and fired at a patrol craft with two torpedoes on the 19th. Was released from lifeguard duty on the 20th. Heading back to Guam encountered a TF of CVE's operating East of Iwo Jima. Refueled at Guam, then headed home to Pearl Harbor, arriving March 4th.

Interesting patrol, challenging and and exciting. The encounter had similarities to USS Batfish's real experience in Feb 1945 when she sunk three subs in 72 hours in same area. I did add these subs a while back as part of my forthcoming TMO upgrade. I did add radar to the subs (some) and how Batfish detected two of her prey was detecting their radar emissions, which as I described is my primary way of detecting them on this patrol. I added the ULTRA alerting the player as well . Before release I plan to have AI subs firing torpedoes so that will add a whole new aspect to encounters with enemy submarines in TMO. While wish we had subs that would "submerge" and fire, having them randomly disappear and reappear at a later location does a decent job of adding the uncertainty in these encounters. I have added every submarine sunk by US submarines recorded to the games at historical time and locations, plus some random ones at appropriate times and locations but encounters are still rare as they really were. There are ULTRA's alerting the player when appropriate. German U boats operating in pacific and java sea etc were added as well.

Some screenshots, will add others later .

https://i.postimg.cc/CBxzP836/Threesubs.png (https://postimg.cc/CBxzP836)

https://i.postimg.cc/ykgnp3Bd/subblast1.png (https://postimg.cc/ykgnp3Bd)

https://i.postimg.cc/JGfxf74Q/surabachi1.png (https://postimg.cc/JGfxf74Q)

https://i.postimg.cc/fVd2ytgF/BB1.png (https://postimg.cc/fVd2ytgF)

https://i.postimg.cc/MXcyzkL3/BB2.png (https://postimg.cc/MXcyzkL3)

Arlo

04-16-21, 11:55 PM

Departing for our second patrol out of Midway we were tasked once again with delivering an agent deep into enemy territory.

C.O. Lcdr. Edward Steele
X.O. Lt. Irvin T. Ryan
C.O.B. CMM Theodore W. Hull

Delivery uneventful/successful.

We were directed to patrol sector 'abuse.' While still in the Yellow Sea radar reported a convoy headed directly for us. This made for a 'target of opportunity.' Time - 04:15/water depth - 150ft.

https://i.imgur.com/pEnDfID.png

30 minutes of action: https://youtu.be/Bfs31HEM5yQ

https://i.imgur.com/GVb2lDD.png

https://i.imgur.com/ztCfurT.png

:salute:

Bubblehead1980

04-17-21, 03:24 PM

Bubblehead1980

04-26-21, 04:22 PM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods.
USS Tambor SS-198
Eighth Patrol
5 June-22 July 1943
Area D3- Southern Gulf of Siam (Thailand) and portion of South China Sea.
100 realism with contacts on and for a change of pace, external cam on.

Departed Fremantle on 5 June, stopped for fuel at Exmouth Gulf on morning of 8 June and proceeded NNW at 15 knots to transit Lombok Strait.

On the evening of 10 June Tambor "Ran the gauntlet" of Lombok Strait on surface at night. There was little moonlight with flat, calm seas. SJ radar contacted what was likely a patrol vessel at southern entrance, steered course around and increased speed to 18 knots, evaded. In middle of strait a small PC type was sighted (SJ did not make contact), Tambor presented her stern and turned away, outrunning the PC.

At the north end of strait around 0130 made SJ contact with what was presumed to be another PC. While taking evasive action and increasing speed again to 18 knots, the PC was visually spotted heading in our direction. Increased to flank speed and presented stern, heading NE, careful to not close the coast of Lombok Island due to reported shore batteries and minefields. The PC turned south, not spotting Tambor. It is assumed that PC types do not have radar. Cleared Lombok Strait at 0200 and headed NW to transit Java Sea and Karimata Strait to patrol area.

Over next few days avoided patrol aircraft and vessels, arriving in patrol area late on 15 June.

At 0400 on 20 June SJ made a lone contact 100 NM SSW of Cau Mau Peninsula (Indochina) in the Gulf of Siam. Went to GQ. Closed at flank speed to gain position for dawn periscope attack. As attempted to pull ahead, noticed by lack of quick advancement target must be making higher speed. As sky lightened observed the target was a warship, a destroyer or destroyer escort type. Dawn was breaking and continued pursuit would take into very shallow waters, so decided to dive and should be able to fire from within 2500 yards. Ordered a dive.

At 0600 the DD was identified as the Royal Thai Navy's Phra Ruang Destroyer. Continued to close at high speed. Upon next observation, target had changed course slightly opened distance. Target was moving at 16 knots.

At 0614 fired two Mark 14's from 5100 yards. One minute into torpedo run, torpedo 1 prematurely exploded. Just 200 yards from target, torpedo 2 prematurely exploded. The DD was alerted by the explosions and began search. Tambor changed course at high speed and at 150 feet heading away. The DD never located Tambor. Attempted to surface at 1000 but a large flying boat remained in area throughout day attempted to locate Tambor. Surfaced after dark and set course to South.

Over next few days encountered nothing but patrol planes. At 1600 on 26 June, SD radar failed to detect a flying boat. Once observed by aft lookout, Tambor dove to 125 feet. Three depth charges/bombs exploded close, causing minor damage and shaking the boat.

At 0100 on 29 June, received an ULTRA indicating an enemy light cruiser would depart Bangkok for Hong Kong at 0600 on 30 June and would transit our area around 1300 on 1 July. After diving for day to avoid numerous planes, set course for desired intercept point.

At 1845 on 29 June, SJ contact. Visually identified numerous smoke plumes in distance, a convoy had been located. After looking over situation, Tambor had time for an attack on the convoy, possibly a follow up and could still reach the desired ambush point for the light cruiser. Pulled ahead of convoy until dark fell, wen to GQ and turned into to convoy for a night surface attack.

Convoy was a four ship one escort convoy on a base NNE course into South China Sea. Zigging roughly every 25-30 minutes. Speed was 9 knots. Closed in on port side to target the two larger merchants. Closed to 2200 yards and fired three torpedoes each at ADA MARU SANYO MARU merchants. Four torpedoes prematurely detonated, which alerted the escorts but one torpedo hit each target. As Tambor turned and sped away, escort was racing in , star shells in the sky., a couple of splashes landed 300-500 yards near Tambor, either from the escort (Shimushu Class Type A Escort) or the burning merchants. Tambor escaped into the night. The escort began dropping depth charges, then came to a stop, listening, convinced Tambor had dived.

Slowed and observed, the two targets were burning and dead in water but not sinking. From 7000 yards, fired two stern torpedoes at each. Two premature explosions occurred, but one each hit their mark. The ADA MARU quickly went down. SANYO MARU lingered but eventually went under.

Gauging the situation, decided to break off attack and head for ambush point due to time limitations and not further expending torpedoes.

At 1426 on 1 July SJ made contact 78 NM SSW of Cau Mau Peninsula in Gulf of Siam. Went to GQ and raced toward contact. Soon visually identified two warships in distance, moving at high speed. While hoped to shadow into deeper waters, the targets were moving at 19 knots, Tambor would not able to outpace the targets, now identified tentatively as a CL and DD. Ordered a dive along the path to 100 feet (bottom was 125 feet) turned to could attack from port side and not have to turn for deeper waters after attack, closed at high speed, surmising their high speed would prevent escort from detecting Tambor's approach. After a few minutes, came to scope depth and slowed for observation. Target was a Nagara Class CL with a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat escorting. Dropped scope and went back to 100 feet for high speed run, should be able to fire from 1500-2000 yards.

Came back to scope depth after a few minutes, target track had slightly changed which would make , would have to fire from 2300 yards, but a spread of six should cover it. One issue, had been forced into shallow waters max depth was 115 feet, but would take the risk, this was an important enemy warship.

Finally, final observation, fired six Mark 14 torpedoes, set at shallow depth in a nice spread at target which was making 18 knots. Target spotted the torpedoes and attempted to evade but three struck home and detonated, with another hitting but was a dud, two others missed. The target burned before a large, delayed explosion occurred after 45 seconds with numerous secondary explosions presumed to be magazines detonating. Set course for deeper waters, went silent, and to 90 feet. The Nagara was heard exploding and breaking up.

Meanwhile, the Chidori was searching but did not seem to know where we were but with Tambor at just 100 feet and no where to hide, Chidori's sweeps eventually located Tambor as pinging began.

The vessels made five quick initial runs, dropping charges.Tambor's evasive tactics of keeping 5-10 degrees rudder on with burst of speed when covered by the roar of engines and DC explosions seemed to work. No damage was caused but boat was shaken. After a ten minute pause, Chidori closed in running nearly along the "spine" of Tambor and dropped a large pattern.

Tambor was badly shaken, with damage throughout the boat, but nothing too serious. Maintained 6 knots for a nice burst of speed and direction change. Endured several more charge, close but no damage. A few minutes later, a suddenly explosion from what is presumed to be an aircraft spotted shallow submerged Tambor as the escort was 1200 yards away at time, caused damaged to conning tower and control room. Soon the Chidori closed in for another run dropping a pattern, this pattern seriously damaged forward torpedo room, with flooding, all six tubes damaged heavily. Sent the DC party into action. The flooding was quickly stopped with some water needing to be pump, Several large distant explosions were heard, presumed to be aircraft attacking what thought was Tambor.

The Chidori seemed to have lost Tambor as 15 minutes went by without an attack but soon it came roaring in pinging. Dropped a pattern, which was close. This pattern caused heavy damage to trim pump. Maintaining depth became difficult, Tambor hit bottom at one point. For a time we sat on bottom while repairs conducted (hull damage taken from sitting on bottom, we still really need to solve this issue somehow). Several patterns were dropped, with minor damage. Finally but water pumped out, and the trim pump repaired, was able to move along. The Chidori was relentless, making numerous runs over course of next few hours, stopping to listen, search, then returning to drop, then losing contact.

At 2050 the Chidori regained contact, pinging and closing in, dropping a close pattern, and repeating twice more. At this point, practically every system on sub had some degree of damage. Battery power was down to 30 percent, the high speed run followed by the evasion and some forward battery damage burned power. Night was falling (ship rigged for red) and possibility of fighting it out was being contemplated.

Tambor was now in "deeper" water with bottom at 130 feet and was creeping along. Boat was damaged, with low battery power. All forward tubes were not operational, and had just two forward torpedoes left anyways. There were three stern fish left and all were operational. If forced, after night fall would surface with stern towards Chidori and head away at flank speed. Aft mounted deck gun and 20 mm manned. If spotted and Chidori closing, would utilize stern tubes for a "down the throat shot" and the aft deck gun if needed.

However, we still had time and enough juice left to wait it out before dark set in. Chidori continued it's routine of search, attack a few times, then go quiet. We soon realized had made it into an area where map indicated waters were deeper, we did not dare use the fathometer to check, so eased down to 150 feet. On next run in Chidori's charges were not as close and seemed to not have such a fix on Tambor. Decided to creep along, Chidori was still on trail but extra depth seemed to help. Sound went quiet, escort was listening.

By 0100, Tambor had been under attack for nine hours and was damaged. Eased up for a scope observation. As passed 100 feet, sound reported warship closing fast. Stopped ascent and went back to 150 feet, turned bow to Chidori to present low sonar profile. Chidori ran overhead and dropped charges, only one was close, others were way off. The close one damaged hydraulic pump, sonar stack, trimp pump, and the diesel engines.

The Chidori ran around pinging dropping charges but never established solid contact again. Finally around 0345, eased up to scope depth, nothing in sight. At radar depth, no contacts. Secured from Silent Running and surfaced, limping away after just over 12 hours submerged and under attack.

Crew repaired damage but forward tubes 1 and 2 were damaged beyond repair, others repaired. Also had hull damage from sitting on bottom (!). Evaluating things, boat was damaged but operation...had five torpedoes and 41 percent fuel left. Decided to continue patrol. At dawn dove for the day to rest, surfaced at night.

On 8 July SJ made a lone contact before dawn. Had located a lone freighter. Closed for dawn submerged attack. Fired three after torpedoes on the 9800 ton KOBAYASHI MARU, two hit, one appeared to suffer a gyro error and went way off firing bearing. The two hits cause massive secondary explosions, the masts and superstructures of the large ship collapsed, and was on fire from bow to stern. The hulk quickly went under. With three merchants and light cruiser sunk, two torpedoes left, damaged to boat, and fuel down to 30 percent, decided to terminate patrol and head for Fremantle.

The transit home was challenging as numerous air and surface patrols in Karimata Strait and Java Sea slowed advance. Also, nearly ran aground on night of 16 July on a small island unseen on map (unless zoomed in very close).

Finally on night of 19 July, "ran the gauntlet" of Lombok Strait, avoiding the patrols. Exited south end of strait around 0300 on 20 July. Checking fuel, had enough to reach Fremantle at Standard Speed, set course for home, forgoing the stop at Exmouth Gulf. Docked at Fremantle on 22 July 1943.

After over a year "down under" Tambor will be transferred to Pearl Harbor after next patrol.

Screenshots:

https://i.postimg.cc/ctcGfx8k/nagara1.png (https://postimg.cc/ctcGfx8k)

https://i.postimg.cc/3wxkZ4df/damage1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/YCb9jrb6/Shipssunk1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/750dzY83/nagaraflagbottom.png (https://postimg.cc/750dzY83)

https://i.postimg.cc/J01vyLTX/nagaradamaged.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Bn1Ynbqy/threeholes1.png (https://postimages.org/)image sharing sites (https://postimages.org/)

Arlo

04-27-21, 05:31 PM

Wonderfully detailed patrol report, Bubblehead! I was holding my breath at times. Definitely an example of going above and beyond.

:salute:

https://i.imgur.com/BdpnPhK.png

Bubblehead1980

04-27-21, 09:58 PM

Wonderfully detailed patrol report, Bubblehead! I was holding my breath at times. Definitely an example of going above and beyond.

:salute:

https://i.imgur.com/BdpnPhK.png

Thanks, enjoy read other's reports, that one was an interesting one, figured I would share.

I put this patrol report together a while back, formatted to resemble an actual WW II war patrol report , and kept a log of activity during the patrol. You may enjoy the read.

https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=5657

Bubblehead1980

04-30-21, 12:45 PM

August 22, 1943
Area "Dunkers Derp"
USS Tambor SS-198
TMO 2.5 w custom mods.

Nice shot from last patrol. One of those intense moments that lead to hours of intense moments.

Located a south bound convoy (likely headed for Truk) in patrol area one day after arriving in area. Dusk was not long away so moved ahead for night surface attack.

Closed in and observed a large tanker (11800 ton GENYO MARU), selected tanker for four bow torpedoes and a large freighter for two. Closed to 2200 yards and fired. As torpedoes were inbound, observed a previously undetected Chidori Class Torpedo Boat/Escort moving into position, not far away. This could complicate an escape as we began the turn away, prepared to dive if needed. Just before torpedoes impact, Chidori spotted Tambor, illuminating Tambor with her spotlight. Just then BOOM....tanker impacted and went up with one torpedo, this one was carrying fuel southbound, judging by the large fireball. Two other torpedoes that hit the freighter was a dud and one missed, only one report of a dud. With Chidori turning towards Tambor, illuminated, merchants firing deck guns as well as Chidori, no time to turn, opted to turn bow towards Chidori to keep minimum profile/target for her gunners, and ordered a dive. We slid under....and endured a intense depth charging.

https://i.postimg.cc/y3z084vB/Tanker1.png (https://postimg.cc/y3z084vB)

https://i.postimg.cc/fJDg86Z6/Tanker2.png (https://postimg.cc/fJDg86Z6)

Arlo

05-01-21, 07:14 PM

FOTRSU + Ship Interior (officer's country) for FOTRSU.

Dec. 7, 1941 .. Lcdr. Sherman commanding.

Orders received:

https://i.imgur.com/d3EaFiD.png
https://i.imgur.com/nFSRmje.png

Control room gauges - dive station:

https://i.imgur.com/Dcq2UPE.png

Plotted course:

https://i.imgur.com/qfk3BYd.png

Urgent radio message:

https://i.imgur.com/BpaNUV4.png

https://i.imgur.com/VNYFEQT.png

https://i.imgur.com/NrPyRnq.png

Periscope depth:

https://i.imgur.com/olg7QFK.png

Deep dive:

https://i.imgur.com/2sHL6a0.png

Control room gauges - dive station - during deep dive:

https://i.imgur.com/p5WPDqR.png

Control room helm gauges:

https://i.imgur.com/xDzGCqb.png

Radio shack:

https://i.imgur.com/B86gXmD.png

Unauthorized man in chief's country:

https://i.imgur.com/oxDkoMl.png

Gauges in skipper's bunk:

https://i.imgur.com/MZ4gdyd.png

Chief in wardroom:

https://i.imgur.com/lM4YLg4.png

Clock in wardroom:

https://i.imgur.com/flT50Qh.png

WHAT?! Who is responsible for this?!:

https://i.imgur.com/4abjsE6.png

What's cookin', Cookie?:

https://i.imgur.com/2xLumnM.png

Beyond this is a mystery ... for now:

https://i.imgur.com/vbV4Gdm.png

Time to test 'general quarters':

https://i.imgur.com/kEaH1Yv.png

Conning tower helm gauges:

https://i.imgur.com/O5qPOj1.png

Control room ballast gauges:

https://i.imgur.com/sqfNoLJ.png

Aft control room general gauges:

https://i.imgur.com/IYJRRmL.png

Control room pressure gauges:

https://i.imgur.com/Et2oZG9.png

And thanks for the info on how to use the sonar station in FOTRSU:

https://youtu.be/ZTss_gZQsK8

Less images and more text will follow. This will serve as a 'patrol log' and general test, recording any glitches in the mod.

:Kaleun_Salute:

propbeanie

05-01-21, 08:32 PM

Just to point out, historically speaking, the IJN sent 2 DD in from the northeast of Midway to shell the islands on the morning of December 7 (Pearl time). The do not come in too close, but hopefully, close enough to let loose some shots at the gun emplacements on the islands...

If you do Wake, the Betty's come in like clockwork, and will lay the place waste, if it could be destroyed, that is... :har: - silly game!

I am currently watching my game on one screen, while I have the Task Manager and the browser open, along with PhotoShop, Discord, Notepad++, 2x File Explorer, and various other apps, while I watch and see if I can stress the game enough for my Sargo to do the 12 O'Clock High trick. I am wondering about the game's use of the gramophone, and if there is a limit to the folder size of the music used perhaps. I do know that the limit is 99 file names, but... Anyway, glad you looked at the bottom of the menu. lol - You will "transfer" to Pearl as appropriate, and then probably have to come back in to get another assignment, but you are then based at Pearl. The Same with Wake. Carry on, Mister! :salute:

Bubblehead1980

05-03-21, 11:38 AM

13 January-10 March 1944
USS Jack SS-259 (Gato Class)
TMO 2.5 w custom mods.

After last(11th) patrol USS Tambor (Career began Dec 1941) boat was unexpectedly retired (error in the retirement date at end of 1943 instead of beginning of 1945 when class was retired. Possibly prompted by the fact that although I sunk 4 ships on final Tambor patrol, a CTD entering Fremantle and reload of bug only gave me credit for one, even though they appeared in the log). Will correct the bug and try again, made it that far.

New career with USS Jack SS-259 Gato. After three successful patrols out of Pearl Harbor to Area 4 (Tokyo), Bonin Islands (Corridor II) area, and Area 10 (Sea of Japan) and an "overhaul" (skipped a patrol in late 1943, representing when real life USS Jack went to Mare Island to have troublesome HOR engines replaced).

Ready for patrol in January 1944, transferred to Fremantle, but would Pearl Harbor, would conduct a war patrol en route(modified the Flotilla files so could do this, always annoyed me this feature was removed when "rang up" a transfer, had to transit there. Still trying to figure out how to implement it into the sim).

Departed Pearl Harbor on 13 January 1944, transited to Midway at 15.5 knots and topped off fuel. Set course West for Area Ablaze. Would patrol there and then head through Luzon Straits and South China Sea, Balabac Strait, Celebes Sea to Lombok Strait and onto Australia. With the long journey likely to stretch fuel thin, proceeded to area at 11.5 knots.

Arrived in Area Ablaze and patrolled for two weeks, avoiding patrol planes and chasing two contact reports but was unable to locate. On morning of February 8th was tracking a possible enemy submarine but the a storm moving in, heavy seas, clouds, rain and fog, lost contact.

On February 12th departed patrol area, proceeded off East coast of Formosa, West of Sakishima Islands and entered Luzon Straits. Proceeded along the known convoys routes heading South.

At 0352 on 19 February in Area B4 in South China Sea, SJ made contact. The newly installed SJ-1 radar displayed the pips nicely on the PPI screen, had what appeared to be five ships in two columns and two escorts. Went to General Quarters and Closed in at flank speed for night surface attack.

At 0437 was 4000 yards off the track. Jack had located a tanker convoy, that was on course of 038 at 11 knots. two columns(two large tankers in starboard column, three mid sized tankers in port). Set up to fire three Mark 14's each at the two large tankers in the starboard column, now identified as the (lead) NIPPON MARU of 10000 tons and the GENYO MARU(trailer) of 11800 tons.

As the tankers crossed Jack's bow, aimed TBT and fired three at GENYRO MARU and then NIPPON MARU...one torpedo aimed at middle, bow, and under the aft stack of each tanker...all set on depth of 8-12 feet.

Being at just 2200 yards at time of firing, the torpedo run was short. First torpedo to hit the GENYO MARU set off a massive and loud explosion(hav eto love EAX sound sim mod) and fireball, subsequent hits contributed to the conflagration. All three torpedoes hit the NIPPON MARU which went up in a similar manner. Both tankers were left flaming wrecks and sunk within ten minutes.

Just as the torpedoes were about to hit, Jack went ahead flank and hard to port to turn away and make a run away after torpedo impact. After the two tankers went up in flames, star shells were spotted and observed the rear escort (subsequently identified as a Etorufu Class Escort) came charging in at maxiumum speed, firing it's deck gun as well as machine guns/autocannon, splashes landing in vicinity of Jack, but none too close. The remaining tankers also fired their deck guns, landing multiple splashes but this subsided quickly and no damage was done.

The lead escort(later identified as a Mikura/Type B Class Escort) however, while more distant, seemed to have a bead on Jack as fired multiple star shells to illuminate and then several splashes from it's deck gun landed within 30-50 yards of Jack during initial run away but as range quickly opened, splashes quickly grew distant. Both escorts were charging towards Jack. Showing stern to closest escort, manned aft TBT and opened tubes, in case needed to fire a down the throat shot with Mark 18's in stern tubes. Splashes from deck guns and auto cannon/machine guns continued to splash but were not too close, sans a lucky few hits from machine guns on conning tower, which did no damage. With Jack running at flank speed, was slowly opening distance and gunfire subsided while star shells continued to fly and both escorts pursued.

With range one escorts now opened to 5000 yards, splashes stopped and continued pulled away into the darkness. Around 9000 yards out, escorts slowed and began circling, dropping depth charges, convinced Jack had submerged. Slipped away and went for end around to catch the remaining tankers while unguarded.

Closed in to 2500 yards and turned stern to fire Mark 18's in stern tubes (bow tubes still being reloaded) on a trailing tanker, the SEITO MARU (6200 tons). Ships were zigging back and forth along their NNW course at 6 knots. Fired four Mark 18's but just at time of firing, the target increased speed to 10 knots in a straight run, Mark 18's missed astern. Revved up to pursue for another attack when SD made contact with an incoming night flyer, range of plane closed to less than 5 NM and closing, Jack submerged. Back at radar depth, plane was now over the scene of the sinking's circling assisting escorts, flying so low showed up on SJ PPI scope as a third pip.

Jack secured from GQ for some rest, continued reload and raced ahead for a last night surface attack before dawn (due to departure from Pearl Harbor and operating off Japan, the sim's clock did not update to local time properly as it rarely does, and dawn was not breaking until around 1100 lol).

After some initial trouble regaining SJ contact, located convoy around 0900. Convoy was reformed with three tankers in single column with escort forward and and in the rear. That pesky night flyer was roaming the area as well but never came within 6 NM of Jack.

Noticed a quarter moon had now risen in the east, crossed convoys bow at flank speed and turned toward it 4000 yards off it's track, pointing bow at lead escort to keep low profile. The slight moonlight silhouetted the convoy perfectly.In the lead was the Mikura Escort, followed by the tankers... 4800 ton BUZYUN MARU, 6800 ton AKEBONO MARU, 6000 ton SEITO MARU, and the Etorofu escort. Convoy was on course 060 at 11.5 knots.

Closed to 2300 yards off port side of convoy, fired three Mark 14's at the BUZYUN MARU and AKEBONO MARU. Aimed shots at middle of targer, bow, and aft stack as before to cover length of target. First torpedo impact hit BUZYUN MARU amidships and started a fire, the second hit under the stack and set off a massive explosion, followed by a larger secondary explosion and fireball, other torpedo hit as aimed and destroyer the bow. The AKEBONO MARU was hit by two torpedoes amidships and in bow, as it made evasive turn to port(towards Jack), with the aft torpedo missing(suspected it ran deep but may have missed due to the turn) . AKEBONO MARU was left on fire but afloat and underway. Gunfire from the two remaining tankers and escorts poured in as Jack raced away on surface, but the escorts did not pursue with the same vigor as previous attack, suspect never made firm contact on Jack visually. The lead continued on escorting the tankers, while other guarded their port side, occasionally running out towards Jack but then charging back.

Pulled out o 6 NM and observed, wanted to see if the damaged tanker would go dead in the water, so could finish it off later but it continued underway, surprisingly. With dawn approaching, conducted end around with a follow up periscope attack, dodging supporting patrol planes.

Regained contact a few hours later, dove and approached for submerged attack with Mark 18's in stern tubes. At 1400 yards, observed the SEITO MARU in lead with AKEBONO MARU following, one escort forward one aft as before. From 1200 yards fired four Mark 18's at AKEBONO MARU. As raised scope to observe impact, could see the tankers were zigging! Ah the luck, all four missed the AKEBONO but then unexpectedly, the SEITO MARU was hit by one Mark 18 as SEITO MARU had sailed into the path of the wakeless torpedo. The single hit set off a massive explosion and fireball as with other tankers and quickly slipped under the surface.

Suddenly, pinging was heard. The rear escort (Etorofu) was closing in fast with a bone in its teeth. Ordered silent running and went to 375 feet. Conducted typical evasion, moving at 3 knots, 5-10 degrees on rudder at all times, initially was to port, providing low profile to sonar beam.

The escort passed overhead and let a pattern go, Jack went ahead full for 60
seconds, then slow. One charge was somewhat close and shook the Jack. Second escort arrived on scene and let a pattern go, several were close but no damage. With calm seas in ideal sonar conditions, they seemed to have a solid fix on Jack as most charges were at the boats depth. On next run by escort, went ahead flank, rudder to starboard and ordered depth of 425 feet. No close charges.

After three hours, the escorts lost Jack and departed, rejoining the remaining tanker. Surfaced and tried an end around but a pesky patrol plane kept Jack in "yo-yo" mode for the afternoon. Finally, without plane attacks, raced along the likely course of tanker and it's escorts, regaining SJ contact at 2104 hours.Pulled ahead of convoy and shadowed at 10 NM, waiting for nightfall. Jack had four Mark 23 steam torpedoes left in tubes 3,4,5, and 6.

At dusk convoy zigged hard NE. Went to GQ and closed in after nightfall. While no moon was visible, the night was clear and excellent visibility. Closed to 2500 yards and fired two Mark 23 torpedoes aimed amidships of the AKEBONO MARU. Both hit, the tanker went up in a fireball and explosion, but different than the other tankers sunk. Both escorts were immediately on Jack, closing in fast while Jack ran away dodging shell splashes. Machine gun/autocannon fire from rear escort struck Jack's stern and conning tower multiple times with minor damage to aft TBT, 40 MM gun. After a prolonged chase, escorts slowed and began searching for a submerged submarine. Jack opened the range as before and slipped into the night.Five tankers sunk in running battle over 22 1/2 hours.

With two torpedoes left and fuel at 37 percent, set course for Balabac Strait t transit Sulu Sea/Sibutu Passage/Celebes Sea/ Makassar Strait/Lombok Strait en route to Fremantle.

Over next few days dove to avoid patrol planes and while transiting Balabac Strait at night encountered a patrolling auxiliary subchaser which spotted Jack or possibly detected on radar (if it had it). Raced ahead but careful as the strait is minded with a fairly narrow safe area to transit. Outran the pursuer and made it into Sulu Sea.

At dusk the following day, encountered a patrol with a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat and an Auxiliary Subchaser. They were steaming about 3000 yards abeam of one another. Deciding with the low light conditions had an advantage and the Chidori being a valuable ASW ship, to attack. Just as fired final two Mark 23 torpedoes, Chidori made a wild course change for a sweep, torpedoes missed but continued on and one hit the Auxiliary Subchaser, decimating it. Vessel quickly slipped beneath the surface. Went to 350 feet and silent running expecting a counter attack, but Chidori never located Jack.

Surface and proceeded home, dodging patrol planes and surface patrols, fighting heavy seas and storms. Finally transited Lombok Strait on night of March 5th, dodging the patrols and a patrol plane south of Lombok the next morning. Arrived Fremantle on 10 March 1944 and terminated patrol.

Note: This patrol somewhat resembles Jack's real life fourth patrol in which it did depart Pearl and terminated at Fremantle(where she would be based for next year or so) , conducting war patrol en route in the South China Sea, "sweeping" a tanker convoy. If had not read "Silent Running" by Vice Admiral James Calvert, you should. Calvert was a young officer on board Jack during most of her patrols, including the Tanker sweep, ran the TDC. Excellent memoir.

When reworking traffic for my forthcoming TMO upgrade, this is one of the "historic" convoys I added to be at historically accurate time and place (within bounds of the sim, of course) so player could engage. Unlike some of those others, there was not ULTRA message for this one and while I was in a likely shipping lane, I did just stumble upon ii while on patrol. Always kind of cool to see things unfold like that.

A few screenshots:

https://i.postimg.cc/xJkWxvGX/burn2.png (https://postimg.cc/xJkWxvGX)

https://i.postimg.cc/v43kGq31/depthcharge1.png (https://postimg.cc/v43kGq31)

https://i.postimg.cc/7b2FSNYc/Explosion1.png (https://postimg.cc/7b2FSNYc)

https://i.postimg.cc/0bGhB2S0/Explosion2.png (https://postimg.cc/0bGhB2S0)

https://i.postimg.cc/QFXvGGkG/Final1.png (https://postimg.cc/QFXvGGkG)

https://i.postimg.cc/2qyJyQK0/Final2.png (https://postimg.cc/2qyJyQK0)

https://i.postimg.cc/BL1VcqsD/Final3.png (https://postimg.cc/BL1VcqsD)

https://i.postimg.cc/rR1Z3QDw/PPI1.png (https://postimg.cc/rR1Z3QDw)

https://i.postimg.cc/y34rLwYG/Run1.png (https://postimg.cc/y34rLwYG)

https://i.postimg.cc/0644w6gP/run2.png (https://postimg.cc/0644w6gP)

https://i.postimg.cc/t7WcsCBG/sunrise1.png (https://postimg.cc/t7WcsCBG)

Bubblehead1980

05-06-21, 11:23 PM

USS Jack SS-259
TMO 2.5 with custom mod
100 realism. External cam off for Patrol 6, on for patrol 7.

Sixth War Patrol: 11 April-15 May 1944

Departed Fremantle, Australia at 1300 on 11 April with orders to Luzon Strait (Convoy College). Topped off fuel tanks at Exmouth Gulf on 13 April. Deciding to forgo the excitement of running Lombok Strait, decided to proceed via Timor Strait and Banda and Molucca Seas up the East coast of Philippines to enter the straits. Avoided a few patrol planes via diving.

On April 19th at 0930 SJ made contact on a convoy on a south-west course. Convoy was 70 NM off the NW tip of Halmahera. Closed in and sent contact report, ordered to attack. Closed a large NAGRA MARU freighter and fired four Mark 18 torpedoes from stern tubes at 1000 yards. All four hit, the ship slowed caught fire, took a heavy starboard listed and sunk in five minutes. Escorts hunted by were unable to locate the Jack as found a nice thermal layer, seas were choppy and was running silent at 375 feet.

Surfaced at dusk and continued for patrol area along East coast of Philippines. Numerous air patrols (day and night) required Jack to yo-yo and slowed progress.

On 22 April ran into massive storm which slowed progress. SJ contacted a small convoy appeared to be 2 ships with 3 escorts, likely heading for Lamon Bay. Due to weather conditions , did not pursue, continued towards patrol area.

Received ULTRA regarding a high priority troop convoy (Take Ichi or Bamboo No.1) carrying reinforcements for New Guinea, with scheduled stop at Manila. Convoy had departed Shanghai and transited the east coast of Formosa. that would be transited Jack's patrol area (Luzon Straits 0n 25 April. Rang up turns for 18 knots to arrive in area as weather cleared. Entered area just before noon on 24 April. Dodging several air patrols as well as a surface patrol via repeated dives.

At 1501 SJ made contact on a large convoy. The PPI scope showed a large body of 15 ships with 12 escorts, Jack had located the subject of the ULTRA. Pulled ahead of the convoy which was zigging often, went to GQ and ordered a dive when convoy zigged towards Jack, exploiting a gap in the tight screen noticed when convoy zigged.

To get closed enough for a good shot, went to 300 feet and ahead full for 6 minutes, back at scope depth, could see multiple large troop ships and large transports, some with tanks and trucks on deck in two columns, they appeared to be constant helming but maintain a speed of twelve knots. A large minelayer appeared to be convoy commander as it was in the lead. Targeted a large KOTOBUKI MARU (18000 tons) troopship for a shot from 5000 yards with Mark 14's. An aircraft was spotted through the scope and took sub to 100 feet. Back at scope depth, prepared to shoot as TDC looked great. When raised scope for firing observation, convoy had zigged away, range opening fast. Deciding a hit unlikely, withheld fire and went deep, would let convoy pass, end around for a night surface attack as sundown was approaching fast.

Surfaced and raced ahead, maintaining SJ contact and diving twice to avoid a patrol plane. Finally at 2100, after nightfall, was in position, would move in for attack.

Judging from situation, Jack could close to 4500-5000 yards for a shot. Fire a full bow and stern spread into convoy at center and likely get hits on several ships. The APR-1 RWR was receiving radar signals from a vessel in the screen (indentified as Yagumo Destroyer) so had to move in carefully to avoid giving radar a solid target.

As moved in, convoy unexpectedly zigged towards Jack, placing Jack well inside the screen and just 2200 yards from the two columns of troopships with nearing escort 2000 yards astern, his radar apparently not detecting Jack due to low profile.

Targeted a large KITRUIN MARU troopship and DAKAR MARU transport. Tanks could be made out in the DAKAR MARU's deck. Just as was about to fire, the KITRUIN MARU was obscured by a large ship as ships continued to regain position after the last zig. The the 18000 ton KOTOBUKI MARU troopship had sailed right into Jack's crosshairs (the luck!) and decided to fire four torpedoes at KOTOBUKI and two at the DAKAR MARU.

At 2124, fired all torpedoes. Moved closer and a plane to run through a gap in convoy and the screen on other side of convoy as had not closed yet after the zig. At 2126....BOOM! Four hits on KOTOBUKI MARU, which caught fire from bow to stern and slowed. BOOM two hits on DAKAR MARU. Jack was now running towards the gap when the Yamgumo DD now at 3100 yards, apparently detected Jack on it's radar, and illuminated Jack with spotlight and star shells.

Multiple heavy shells and machine gun tracers were flying Jack's way landing in waters, some machine gun/autocannon fire hit Jack's deck with no damage. The Yagumo has now trained its spotlight on Jack and was closing fast from astern. Unable to outrun her and worried about catching fire, ordered a DIVE. Jack went down and went ahead flank, heading to hide under the large ships. Went silent at 375 feet. Several Depth Charges fell, but none too close. Could tell escorts were obstructed by the mass of ships scrambling about above.

Two hours later came to scope depth and then radar depth. Convoy was moving on SSW zigging, one escort was 9000 yards away, searching, dropping occasional depth charge. A ship spotted and identified as DAKAR MARU was dead in the water at 6000 yards, thanks to the two hits made earlier. Ordered reload and closed. Fired a shot from stern tube, which sunk the 7629 ton transport at 2304. Jack surfaced, secured from GQ and raced to regain contact with the main body.

At 0300 on 25 April, regained SJ contact. Convoy was now on SW course zigging at 12 knots as before and reorganized into the two columns and escort. Jockeyed for position trying to get a shot, but was stymied by the Yagumo DD and her radar. Finally at 0500, was able to make a long range shot from 6000 yards. With torpedoes still 3000 yards from target. Yamgumo DD painted Jack with radar and closed in at flank speed, firing star shells. Went ahead flank and maneuvered to get away, trying to avoid diving. While evading the DD, suddenly BOOM! torpedo hit early, impacting one of the screening vessels. Turned out to be a Kamikaze Class Destroyer, which eventually went down by the bow.

A minute later Boom! Boom!, two hits on troopship. The KITURUIN MARU was set afire and slowed. As raced away the Yamgumo DD was now at 3900 yards but in the dark night, seemed only have a tentative location. Manned aft TBT, opened outer doors and torpedoes in stern tubes set to minimum depth, would make a down the throat shot if needed. While running at flank speed, put two degrees port rudder on , conducting a slow small turn to turn off the Yagumo's track. The Yamgumo did not turn with Jack and was soon easing off the course. With stern kept to Yagumo to present low profile the radar beam, seemed would slip away. Suddenly...BOOM! Another torpedo hit in the distance. A look showed a fresh fire burning. Seems one of the torpedoes missed the initial target but had hit an escort on other side of the screen. An Etorofu Class escort was burning and quickly sunk. The Yamgumo was now heading S while Jack was heading SE and was 4000 yards away, but Yagumo then seemed to regain contact and fire star shells at Jack, illuminating her. Soon shell splashes were landing in waters near Jack and DD was closing in at over 30 knots. Unable to evade and after a close shell splashed off port side, ordered a dive.

Jack went to 375 feet, silent running. The DD roared overhead, let a few pings go, dropped a pattern of charges, two were close, estimated at 350 feet, while Jack was at 375. The DD hunted Jack for over an hour but never regained a solid contact. At 0631 contact with DD, last heard at 9500 yards at 160 was lost. At 0730 came to scope depth, no contacts visible. At radar depth, no SJ or SD contacts. Secured from GQ, surfaced and raced to regain contact while reloading torpedoes. Jack could likely make a submerged attack before convoy was out of her area.

Thus far Jack had sunk two large troopships, one large transport, and two escorts from this important convoy.

At 1030 SJ made contact. The convoy was heading SSE at 12 knots, zigging radically. By 1230 Jack was ahead of convoy and when zigged towards Jack, dove for submerged attack. Jack had four Mark 14's remaining in bow tubes and three Mark 14's in stern tubes.

A periscope observation revealed Jack would need a speed bust to get within firing range as convoy had changed base course slightly. Went to 300 feet and went ahead flank.

Heading back for scope depth, as passed 100 feet 1251....three close explosions rocked Jack, but luckily do damage. . Apparently a patrolling aircraft had spotted Jack in the calm clear waters as she ascended to periscope depth. of South China Sea. Heading back to 200 feet. more explosions landed but none close, the plane has lost us. Reports of warships closing fast, merchants moving away indicated the convoy was aware of our approach.

Down at 375 feet two escorts closed in. One sounded like a DD(did not use external camera to evade escorts, never do, was on for screenshots) and other a subchaser type. Several patterns fell, some close. Jack was forced to 475 feet, eventually losing the escorts. Which hunted for four hours.

Finally, back at scope depth, all clear. Surfaced, but two patrol planes remained in area, causing Jack to yo-yo. Surfaced at nightfall and continued high speed pursuit but was unable to regain contact At midnight on 26 April, broke off pursuit. Final tally...two large troopships and one large transport with one destroyer and one escort sunk.

Continued patrol for next couple of days, dodging patrol planes. On 29 April located a southbound convoy in Luzon Straits. Fired three stern tubes in night surface attack, but all missed due to 1/2 knot speed error. Convoy sped up from 9 1/2 knots to 10 knots just after firing. Attempted to conduct dawn submerged attack but convoy zigged and and multiple patrol planes kept Jack from conducting end around . Jack was bombed twice when diving to avoid. no damage.

On 2 May SJ made contact with large convoy in Luzon Straits heading NNE at 11 knots. Closed in for night surface attack sneaking through the 5 vessel escort screen of the 9 ships. 6 of which were tankers of 5000-10000 tons. Target a large 10000 ton NIPPON MARU, firing four Mark 14's from 2500 yards at 0100 3 May. At 0102 all torpedoes hit, the tanker erupted into massive fireball, obviously loaded with oil bound for Japan.

The nearest escort at 2100 yards spotted Jack as she turned away and pursued firing a few star shells to illuminate. Soon it was obvious the subchaser while making 19-20 knots could knot overtake Jack. Jack continued to race away, eventually disappearing into the night. Out of torpedoes, Jack headed for Fremantle. Arriving 15 May 1944.

Seventh War Patrol: 7 June-13 July 1944.

Departed Fremantle on 13 July for NW coast of Luzon Area A2. After topping off fuel of Exmouth Gulf, headed for Lombok Strait. Encountered usual patrols at southern and northern entrances to straight, as well as PC in central area. The central patrol had radar and pursued Jack but was able to outrun it. Avoided Northern patrol and exited strait at 0112. Set course for area via Java Sea, Karamata Strait, up west coast of Borneo (real life track Jack took on this patrol, per her operation order).

No contacts during transit aside from patrol planes. Ran into storms when west of Manila. Entered patrol area on 21 June.

On 22 June made contact on a Northbound 13 ship, 4 escort convoy. Being 0800 and having Mark 18's in both bow and stern tubes, opted for submerged attack.

Closed to 1200 yards from the outer column and fired at two BIYO MARU class merchants with three torpedoes each. The wakelesss torpedoes hit home, sinking both freighters. Jack went deep and endured intense but brief depth charging with minor damage.

Back on surface, conducted end around and attacked after night fall on surface. At 2500 yards fired on large 14000 ton NOKURA MARU tanker and with four Mark 14's from bow tubes and a TAKEI MARU 3900 ton tanker with two Mark 14's. The NOKURA MARU was hit and erupted in a fireball. The TAKEI MARU was hit by two and erupted in fireball as well.

Jack was illuminated by star shells and had a DE type and escort closing from two directions stern, firing. Shells landed close at one point but was able to avoid them. The Matsu Class DE had radar and continued closing. Matsu closed to 3000 yards and kicked on spotlight. Forcing Jack to dive.

Jack was hunted for 6 hours, taking damage to pumps, control room and forward torpedo room. Pushed to 530 feet to get under the escorts sonar and charges, finally slipped away.

Surfaced after dawn and attempted to end around but planes prevented regaining contact with convoy. Remained submerged until dark to let crew rest.

Continued patrol when contacted a convoy heading NW, likely a MATA( MANILA to TOKO) convoy on 2 July. Closed and conducted submerged attack with stern tubes, firing two Mark 18's at a MADRAS MARU and KINOPOSAN MARU. Two hits in each vessels, the KINOPOSAN quickly went under. the MADRAS smoking and with a large hole amidships continued on. The escort's counter attack was prolonged but inaccurate. Jack held quiet at 380 feet and escaped, albeit after 8 hours.

Surfaced and pursued convoy for end around but storms rolled in slowing Jack, discontinued search after 12 hours. Continued to patrol but unable to locate further targets, likely due to days of stormy weather. Fuel was running low and headed for Fremantle via Mindoro Strait-Sulu Sea-Celebes Sea-Makassar Strait to Lombok Strait. Arrived at Fremantle on 13 July 1944.

Screen shots:

Attack on Take Ichi Convoy:

https://i.postimg.cc/xksymRF8/TIOne.png (https://postimg.cc/xksymRF8)

https://i.postimg.cc/N9S6J0tw/TIThree.png (https://postimg.cc/N9S6J0tw)

https://i.postimg.cc/N958kHW4/TITwo.png (https://postimg.cc/N958kHW4)

vickers03

05-09-21, 05:10 AM

Arlo, good one with the unauthorized person in the CPO room,
don't know how he got there:doh:

Btw. there is a hidden room opposite the kitchen:03:.

Arlo

05-09-21, 11:18 AM

Arlo, good one with the unauthorized person in the CPO room,
don't know how he got there:doh:

Btw. there is a hidden room opposite the kitchen:03:.

Not all that hidden. :) I consider that the optional guest quarters that currently serves as living quarters for the Exec and COB. (based on the number of chiefs and LTs aboard).

Arlo

05-10-21, 08:32 PM

https://i.imgur.com/hyiSPMu.png

Name: Miller, Irvin Seumas
Rank: Chief Petty Officer
Rating: Machinist Mate
Date of Enlistment: Dec. 26, 1917
Age: 40
D.O.B.: Dec. 26, 1900
Place of Birth: Boston Mass.
Marital Status: Single
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 175 lbs.
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Distinguishing Marks: Anchor Tattoo - right forearm
Asian Female Tattoo- left forearm
Vertical Chinese Characters (4) Tattoo - left side of left
pectoral region
3 Bladed Ship's Propellor Tattoo - left shoulder
5 inch scar - right side lower abdomen

Dental: fillings outer molars upper and lower both sides
left lower canine missing

Duty Stations: Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois - 1918
Cavite - USS Elcano (PG-38) 1918-1920 E-4
Shanghai - USS Elcano (PG-38) 1921-1924 E-5
Naval Submarine Base New London (BESS) - 1925
Mare Island - USS S-14 (SS-119) - 1926 E-6
Panama Canal/St. Thomas - USS S-20 (SS-125) - 1927-1930
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii - USS S-20 (SS-125) - 1930-1932 E-7
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii - USS S-32 (SS-137) 1932-1937
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard - 1937-1940 (Participated on
shakedown cruises of SS-191, SS-199 and SS-200)
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii - USS Trout (SS-202) - 1941

As much information as the record shows and even as much inference as one might glean from reading between the lines, personnel records seldom tell the whole story.

Irvin Miller barely made natural born citizen status. His family immigrated from Ireland to Boston, arriving in September of 1900. Irvin's older brother, Donald Jeffery, walked down the gangplank under his own power at the age of six and had to go through the same naturalization process as their parents.

Don joined the U.S. Navy in 1912 at the age of 18. Irvin, who was bound and determined to follow in his older brother's footsteps, promised his mother that he would wait until his eighteenth birthday to enlist but that was before April 6, 1917 when the United States declared war on Germany. From that point Irvin petitioned her for a letter of consent, allowing him to enlist at seventeen. People were saying that the war would end in less than a year now that the U.S. was involved and Irvin wanted his chance to participate. Don was already on a destroyer, escorting convoys.

This was hard enough to consider when Irvin came of age to make that decision without her consent. The boy's father, Carmichael, died in 1910 working at the Naval Shipyard, constructing coal barges. He came over with that trade and it made for a decent living. The pension she received after his death was enough to keep a roof over their heads and food in their stomachs but now she was looking at seeing her youngest leave for a life of military service at sea. Giving up even one year of his being at home was a difficult thing to consider yet seeing how miserable he would be (and how miserable she would be, in turn) she made a Christmas gift of the letter he asked for and the day after Christmas Irvin enlisted.

It's been said by many a sailor that the more you want a specific type of duty or station location, the less likely you'll receive it ... even if it's to fight in a war. And so it goes that after graduation from boot camp Irvin was sent to be a basic seaman with the Asiatic Fleet. Even more so, the component which protected American interests on the Chinese Yangtze River.

Reporting aboard the old gunboat U.S.S. Elcano in 1918, as an apprentice, Irvin showed enough skill with machinery to become a striker for Machinist's Mate. And as he served in that capacity, hostilities with Germany ended in November.

Irvin saw U.S. submarines in Manila and became fascinated. He knew the German submarines of the war were a force to be reckoned with and recalled some of Don's post-war letters describing the tension of the destroyer versus submarine cat and mouse game as he participated in shielding merchants and transports from destruction. Seeing the U.S. version of those mechanical sharks of the sea made him wonder about duty on one as compared to a second-hand Spanish river patrol boat.

In 1921 the Elcano switched it's port of operations from Cavite to Shanghai. By that time Irvin was advancing from Third Class Machinist's Mate to Second Class. He also began acquiring tattoos, the first of which was the stereotypical 'anchor on a forearm.' He would acquire three more while he was part of the Yangtze River Patrol navy. They were, in this order, the three bladed ship's propeller as seen on the Machinist Mate rating tattooed to his left shoulder; a tattoo of a scantily clad Asian looking female on his left forearm; and, lastly, the Chinese symbols, vertically displayed, on the left side of his left pectoral region that supposedly mean 'Shanghai sailor' (though if seen and asked about he might randomly reply that it means 'Kiss my arse' or 'Horsec*ck' or whatever came to mind that amused him at the moment.

Service on the Yangtze was a mixture of boredom on the river, exotic experiences in Chinese drinking establishments (that offered way more than drinks), very dirty work on old engines and other machinery that was constantly on the verge of breaking down (which actually turned out to be very valuable experience) and contention with warlords and their minions requiring protection of both missionaries and the assets and personnel of the Standard Oil Corporation from such. Thus was the state of affairs when Elcan received her new commanding officer, Lcdr. Lockwood. He had recently served with the submarine service and it was during he 'review of the crew/time to re-enlist' one on one interviews with chiefs and petty officers that when the inevitable 'you are showing great promise and advancing well, where do you see yourself, in the navy in the next four years?' that Miller immediately replied, "Serving with the submarine force, sir!" Lcdr. Lockwood, impressed with the response and recognizing the potential, signed orders for him to go to submarine training upon re-enlistment which was performed post-haste.

Thus ends the transition from 'Shanghai Sailor' to 'Submarine Sailor' for MM2 Irvin S. Miller.

It would be hard to classify Miller's service with submarines as 'uneventful' but it did progress satisfactorily. After sub school he was assigned to USS S-14 out of Mare Island where he rose to the rank of MM1. In 1927 he transferred to SS-20 which was based out of the Panama Canal zone and cruised the Caribbean (U.S. Virgin Islands). He stayed with the SS-20 when it was transferred to Pearl Harbor and advanced to Chief in 1931.

When SS-20 was relocated from Pearl Harbor in 1932, Miller transferred to SS-32 which was still based there (he developed a particular fondness for that duty station and now that he was a chief he could influence his locale better).

It was at this time (1937) that Miller was approached about being specifically groomed to become a 'Chief of the Boat.' It seems that Lcdr. (now Cdr.) Lockwood had been keeping track of his progress from his position as Submarine Operations assistant to the Chief of Naval Operations and Miller was on the short list to be considered for Chief of the Boat for the new Tambor class submarine.

To transition from S class boats and familiarize himself fully with the Tambor class, Miller would report to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to participate in classroom study, participation with construction and shakedown cruises, eventually to be selected as one of the 'Chiefs of the Boat' for one of the new Tambor class submarines (pending commanding officer approval). The new and improved fleet submarine had arrived.

Miller smiled to himself while reading his orders and chewing on his perpetually unlit cigar.

"Guess I gotta Re-enlist."

Kaptlt.Endrass

05-22-21, 10:35 AM

Howdy folks! Wanted to get off the ground and post my first SH4 pic, as well as ask a couple questions. First off, the eye candy; USS Sturgeon underway from Cavite enroute to the Celebes Sea in early 1942.

https://i.imgur.com/iKtjwe3.jpg

Now, as for my curiosity: I have already downloaded and installed RFB to the game, but am looking to explore some more. I've taken looks at both TMO and FotRSU, but on attempting to download, neither download link seems to work via Subsim, nor their respective links. I was wondering if anyone knew about this, and if there is a workaround.

Additionally, is there a mod that does for SH4 what GWX did for SH3, if neither of these fulfill that? (Talking additional ships, campaign improvements, more realistic but not TOO heavy into it, etc...)

Any help will be appreciated, and thank you in advance! Can't wait to get into the Pacific war.

propbeanie

05-22-21, 06:30 PM

Ooo-oooh... prehty... As for the Downloads, look at the top of the page there, and Onkel Neal has a notice about "blockers", so you might have to either "white-list" SubSim, or use a different web browser... TMO is a difficulty mod, while FotRSU is the pretty one... :salute:

Arlo

05-22-21, 10:04 PM

TMO is a difficulty mod, while FotRSU is the pretty one... :salute:

Hey now, I think TMO looks pretty great on my system. I am looking forward to a forward torpedo room, aft berthing, engine and aft torp room for the large fleet boats, though. Maybe they'll be also available for TMO and RFB. (I don't ask for a lot, do I?)

How does one get started in coding modeling? :)

vickers03

05-23-21, 03:35 AM

How does one get started in coding modeling?
download wings3d, it's free. watch a youtube tutorial and start modelling:up:

Bubblehead1980

05-28-21, 03:11 AM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
100 realism no cams, no contacts

31 October/1 November 1944
USS Baya - 3rd War patrol
Area D3 South China Sea
Departed with 68 Officers and Men aboard.
24 Mark 18 torpedoes
300 rounds 5 inch ammunition.
2000 rounds 40 MM ammunition.
2000 rounds 20 MM ammunition.

Departed Fremantle on 16 October assigned to Area D3. Intelligence reports indicate Singapore-Japan convoy lanes have shifted to the China/Indochina coast and would cross the shallows off Cau Mau Peninsula and South Gulf of Siam.

Ran the gauntlet of Lombok Strait night of 18/19 October, conning Baya to avoid total of 6 patrol vessels, one at southern entrance, three in center on a roving patrol, and two at northern entrance/exit. APR-1 detected multiple radar emissions. A radar equipped aircraft patrolled the area as well.

Believe at 2304 the center patrol detected Baya on radr as they suddenly turned to and sped towards us from 9000 yards. Given the dark night, unlikely was visually detected. Baya went ahead flank and was pushed towards east side of strait, mindful to keep away to coast due to shore batteries and minefields. A high speed run pulled Baya away from the escorts which SJ showed went to our previous location. From distance could hear depth charges being dropped, patrol likely assumed Baya submerged.

As approached the Northern end of strait, the pesky night flyer appeared on SD and was heading right over Baya, not wanting to dive due to reports of submerged mines and losing momentum to be clear of the strait by dawn, turned away to open ran from contact. The plane apparently did not detect Baya on its radar as flew to location where the central patrol was last scene dropping depth charges. With some evaded the northern patrols.

Set course for patrol area via Java Sea and Karimata Straits.

Submerged for SD conact at 1545. When back at scope depth, conducted visual and sound sweep. Sound detected faint props of a possible submarine at 004 degrees. Decided to remain submerged and check on this contact as could be enemy or could be a friendly. SJ radar showed no surface contacts.

At 1558 visually identified a surface submarine. Went to GQ and began closing along it's projected track. An observation at 1603 revealed a Japanese I Class submarine on a SSE course making 12 knots, possibly heading to Surabaya. Due to it's track change, opted for stern shot. Took Baya to 90 feet and executed a turn to port to bring stern to bear. Would fire stern tubes from 1800 yards. Readied all stern tubes.

At 1607 raised scope for firing observation...fired tubes 7 and 8. Two Mark 18 torpedoes, fired at 5 second intervals from 1900 yards and aimed at middle of target left the tubes. At 1609 first torpedo hit amidships, the submarine exploded in a large fireball. Torpedo two hit toward the bow, possibly the torpedo room as a slightly delayed but extremely powerful secondary explosion occurred. Within seconds the submarine went down by the bow. On sonar could hear the breaking of the sub and multiple secondary explosions occurred over course of 5 minutes. A oil slick and fire remained on surface for some time as Baya surfaced and went on a high speed run to clear the area. An hour later, submerged to avoid an air contact. Surfaced and continued to area at standard speed.

Arriving in patrol area on afternoon of 24 October, Baya made SJ contact with a south bound convoy coming approaching coast of Malaya no doubt destined for Singapore at 1604. A fathomer check revealed sufficient depth of 200 feet for evasion so opted for submerged attack, to be followed up be a night surface attack if possible. Baya, for first time was equipped for the SBT-1 decoy which should aid in evasion of enemy escorts after attack. Attacking would slow the convoy down after initial attack and provide multiple chances to attack before convoy departed Baya's patrol area and the relative safety of the Indochina coast.

Closed convoy from the port side. Observation showed a thirteen ship five escort convoy with three large columns. Escorts forward, rear, and two on each flank. Convoy was on a course of 220. Upon next observation convoy had zigged toward Baya and was on course 180. This however, put Baya directly in the path of the lead escort. With no time for a turn, backed away at 2/3 speed and although the lead escort crossed 1000 yards ahead, Baya went undetected. On next observation convoy had settled on new course 180 and resumed speed of 10 knots. Prepared to fire on a large( estimated) 8000 ton freighter and a mid sized 5000 ton (estimated) freighter. Upon firing observation the large freighter had moved out of formation towards center column and was at a poor angle, decided to only fire on the mid sized freighter now identified as the 3806 ton MADRAS MARU. Fired two Mark 18 torpedoes from 900 yards, both hit target, causing two large holes visible above water line, smoke and fire, but the vessel continued to move. Set new speed into TDC and fired one more as the coup de grace. Torpedo hit and vessel immediately slowed, burning and listing heavily. Pinging began as the flank escort was rushing in. Took Baya to 175 feet, dropping two decoys above and below the thermocline at 150 feet. Baya turned away for a high speed run as escort closed.

Initial barrage of charges was dropped on the decoys and not too close to Baya. Went to to slow speed on silent running and avoided escorts for some time as they were distracted. A close explosion occurred, likely from an aircraft which spotted Baya in the calm clear waters. This apparently alerted escorts as sound reported them closing in fast. Went to the bottom at 201 feet dropped, two decoys while speeding away at 8 knots.

On escort took the bait while other continued to close and made four runs, dropping four large patterns. Baya took mostly minor damage but a close charge left Baya with minor flooding in forward torpedo room. After five hours of evading this pesky escort and two others who joined, was able to slip away. Surfaced after midnight and attempted to regain contact until dawn and turned north.

28 October- Surfaced after morning trim dive and made an SD contact. Submerged to avoid and sound sweep before surfacing an hour later revealed sound of props in the distance. Surfaced and closed until SJ radar established contact on a Northbound convoy, likely heading from Singapore to Indochina Coast. PPI scope showed 12 ships in three columns with 6 escorts.

Due to shallow waters decided to shadow convoy and attack on surface at night. From 0900-1800 surfaced, diving for planes, matching zigs by convoy. 31 miles off Southern Cape of Cau Mau Peninsula went in for the attack on surface, under the cover of light fog, a virtually moonless night and scattered clouds.

A zig to starboard by convoy proved advantageous for Baya as the lead starboard flanking escort was out of position after the zig, sweeping to the south. Conned the boat to just 2300 yards off starboard column. Targeted a Ryunn Maru(5000 tons estimated) and Atsutasan Maru (7843 tons). Fired three torpedoes at Atsutasan Maru and two at Ryunn Maru and began the turn away as the flanking escort was 3000 yards off and closing fast to get back into position. Lookouts identified this as an Otori Class Torpedo Boat, capable of overtaking Baya.

As Baya was now parallel to convoy with stern to the escort, all three torpedoes hit the Atsutasan Maru, which caught fire and suffered a large explosion as it slowed. Torpedo number five suffered an apparent gyro error and went way off course, while second hit the stern of the Ryunn Maru which caught fire but remained underway. Escorts and merchants now opened fire at Baya as it raced away. Ordering "Ahead Flank" (the one cool special ability that can live with, think the USS Barb running 23.5 knots on surface on overload aft er the Namkwan attack in 45) which pushed Baya to 22 knots.

The Otori increased speed and was closing asBaya readied stern tubes for down the throat shot if needed. The aft and forward 40 MM guns as well as 20 MM aft deck gun were manned in case were needed. The lead escort, now identified as a kaibokan type vessel (Type C) was closing in from the port side and Baya was "crossing her t" , not ideal for as as presented a broad target to the escort, but it was 4000 yards away and its gunfire was not accurate.

The immediate concern was the Otori at 2900 yards and closing fast. Fired two Mark 18's from stern tubes down the throat, both suffered some gyro errors as one went port and one starboard. Fired two more which went on perfect course as aimed but the Otori, apparently cautious of running down a submarine's stern, began constant helming back and forth, torpedoes missed. Reloading was commenced and continued sprinting away from the escorts. Fathometer showed just 61 feet below keel, not enough to dive.

A small amount of rudder to starboard was put on to keep Otori astern but also give less of a broadside to the other escort which was firing rapidly with autocannon , machine guns and its forward dec gun. Luckily it seems in the dark night it did not have an exact fix on Baya as all shots were quite off with shell splashes observed in the distance.

The Otori kicked on it's spotlight and opened up on Baya. The autocannon and machine gun fire was close and several shell splashes from its main battery came close. Ordered the aft 40 and 20 MM to open fired (have changed them from AA guns to deck guns, its great) and did so. Ordered to aim for command deck. After about a minute of exchanging fire, the Otori seemed to back off but just before it ceased fire, received reports of man down on the deck. Torpedoman 1/c Marshall White was fatally wounded by gunfire. Two others were slightly wounded. Other crew assumed their positions and since Otori had backed down somewhat, ordered cease fire as range opened to prevent tracers from revealing location.

The Type C and the Otori then maintained some distance (3800-4200 yards) but opened fire with their deck guns. Baya was now chasing splashes, but avoided any hits. One near miss off port bow brought a moment of "excitement" . Finally the gunfire ceased as range opened and they lost visual contact with Baya but continued pursuing. The Otori sped up to high speed and was close, so applied starboard rudder and eased off the track unseen, heading away as Otori sped by astern at 2600 yards.

Baya moved away with one large shop sunk, one damaged, one escort lightly damage by gun fire. One crew KIA, two lightly wounded (quickly returned to duty).

As Baya jockeyed for position for a follow up attack, her position was repeatedly spoiled by the Otori and other escorts. SJ picked up two apparent stragglers on radar, set course for them to find the damaged Ryunn Maru and a Type C escort making nine knots trying to catch up with the convoy.

Closed to 2200 yards and gave the Ryunn two torpedoes. Both hit and ship quickly began to settle as Baya turned away into the night. The escort pursued but only briefly before turning the rejoin convoy. The Ryunn Maru slipped under the waves soon after.

With the time now 0300, Baya had a 55 NM run get into deeper waters by dawn, so secured from GQ and headed south. Dove for the day to let crew rest and avoid the air patrols that were sure to come at dawn.

Assessing the situation, we had three merchants and submarine sunk. Boat had suffered heavy damage but most repariable. A noted problem after repairs reported complete was a fuel leak. Fuel was at 50 percent upon surfacing and in spite of operating at an economical 11 knots, noticed was rapidly approaching 30 percent. Plenty to get back to Fremantle at decent speed, with or without a stop at Exmouth Gulf. Also had two torpedoes aft with one forward. Transferred aft torpedoes to operational tubes from non operational tubes. Assessment of situation provided Baya was still an effective combat unit and decided to patrol a few more days as convoys were expected in coming days.

Foul weather hampered operations, no contacts except air and sea patrols between 28 October and 5 November.

At 2231 on 5 November, SJ made contact on a convoy about half way between Cau Mau Peninsula and Malaya. Due to moonlight providing excellent visibility and heavy seas preventing maneuvering required in surface attack and evasion, would opt for submerged attack. The 150 feet below keel would suffice if needed to evade.

At 0130 6 November was ahead of the convoy and went to GQ. PPI scope showed a single line of six vessels with seven escorts forming a circle. Radar emissions were detected from escorts on both flanks .

Closed to visual and sailed 7000 yards ahead of convoy, when starboard forward flank escort left a temporary opening in the screen as he moved off station to make a high speed sweep , went ahead emergency and charged in, turning to bring stern tubes to bear and diving to periscope depth to a position to fire from 1200 yards off track of convoy.

At 0312 two lead ships in convoy were revealed to be two large tankers. Second was estimated be a 5 or 6000 ton tanker. The lead was identified as the GENYO MARU (11800) tons. Set torpedo depth for 12 feet and opened outer doors. At 0320 fired final two Mark 18's from stern tubes at five second intervals, aiming for middle of target and the aft stack.

First torpedo hit amidships as aimed, the tanker slowed with a small fire but seemed otherwise unphased. The second hit under the aft stack as aimed causing an explosion in the engines area astern. A slight delay of two seconds occurred before a massive explosion and fireball filled up the periscope. The tanker lifted from the ocean by the force and split the keel amidships. Another explosion followed just after. A large fireball remained with burning oil on surface.

A check around with scope showed the flank escort had returned and was just 1500 yards away as the bow of Baya was turned to move away from the convoy. The escort had slowed , listening. Seeing an opportunity for the last torpedo in the forward tubes, opened outer door on tube six with depth set to minimum setting. Target was a Type C Escort. With an AOB of thirty degrees from 1100 yards and target plotted at 3 1/2 knots drifting in the seas. Fired the last torpedo. The torpedo was on target but apparently ran too deep in the heavy swells. The escort apparently heard the wakeless torpedo as it's general alarm went off and it sped up closing on Baya according to sound. Raised scope to confirm this and turned into escort at high speed to present a minimum sonar profile and ordered boat to 125 feet. Ten degrees port rudder was put on so escort's expect stern rack drop would not lay charges along the length of Baya.

A large pattern of charges were dropped and exploded but were apparently set shallow, estimated at 90-100 feet as all seemed to exploded above Baya. Went to 140 feet, 5 feet above ocean floor and speed away using the explosions and close in prop noises of escort to mask sound.

The escort (and another racing in to assist) established a strong contact on Baya for his second run and moved in. While moving at max speed to get out from under the charges, several close charges exploded near the stern. Reports of damage to aft torpedo and the engine rooms came in to the conn.

Flooding in both compartments, along with damage to various equipment and injuries to some crewmembers was reported. Put the damage control party to work on the flooding as secured from silent running and put on speed to compensate for the flooding and avoiding dragging stern in the ocean bottom. Using speed of nine knots was able to keep the boat level.

DC team controlled the flooding and began pumping while the two escorts made repeated runs, causing minor damage in conning tower and forward torpedo room. Each run seemed less accurate. I believe the heavy sea state helped mask Baya's exact position. However, several more runs, were conducted, two close charges damaged SJ and SD radars, TDC, trim and hydraulic pumps, forward and stern batteries, and heavy damage to JP sound gear. which saw reduced effectiveness.

Finally, with water pumped out was able to slow and rig for silent running now at 155 feet with just 4 feet under the keel. Pinging was heard and depth charges estimated 2000-3000 yards but never closer. Damage to trim pumps seemed to affect depth keeping ability as Baya bounced between 155 and 135 feet until repairs completed. Sound gear was reported repaired but was not sure of its effectiveness.

At 0500, slowly began ascending to periscope depth. As passed 100 feet, sound reported two warship contacts ahead of Baya closing at high speed. Seems we had sleepers. Changed course to opposite direction and escorts sailed by as Baya settled back at 155 feet at 2 knots . It is believed that while the sound gear was inoperative. These escorts sailed ahead and stopped to listen. Whether they heard as the boat ascended to scope depth, were moving out to rejoin convoy is unknown. The recent contacts keep Baya down until dawn. Reaching scope depth at 0700. SJ revealed a contact astern at 13 NM. Secured from GQ, surfaced and set course for home via Karimata and Lombok Straits. Noticed batteries would not fully charge, likely due to damage incurred. Batteries max capacity was now 97 percent.

From 5-10 November dodged numerous air patrols as transited Karimata Strait and the Java Sea in heavy seas. On the night of November, 11 "ran the gauntlet" of Lombok Strait. Oddly enough, no contacts were made with patrols and strait was cleared by 2340 hours.

The persistent leak (apparently unable to be repaired) of a damaged fuel tank left Baya down to 13 percent fuel. Course was set for Exmouth Gulf 893 nautical miles away. In spite of economical speed settings, the leak left Baya with just 1 percent fuel as it arrived at Exmouth Gulf on the morning of 13 November and refueled at the tender anchored there. Fuel tank was temporarily repaired.

While departing Exmouth, noticed loose mines(placed there to simulate errant mines protecting the entrances to the bay) from the nearby minefield, ordered guns manned and these two mines were detonated by combination of 5 inch, 40 and 20 MM gunfire.

Set course for Fremantle. 0700 14 November West of Dirk Hartog Island Australia at 26S 112E, a PBY with RAAF markings(my friendly fire mod) was spotted at 5 NM, detected by SD at 11 NM. The plane circled and made a gliding run on Baya. Believing Baya would be attacked, ordered a DIVE. As Baya passed 150 feet, multiple explosions occurred, close. Took Baya to 375 feet and remained submerged until noon. Surfaced and continued course to Fremantle, but submerged to avoid two more SD contacts.

Docked at Fremantle at 0918 15 November for termination of war patrol.

Patrol Stats:

Days on patrol:29
Torpedoes expended:24
5 inch gun rounds expended:8
40 MM gun rounds expended:21
20MM gun rounds expended:91

TotalShips Sunk: 4
Total Tonnage:25, 259 tons

1.)SS- I Class Submarine 1,800 tons 10/22/1944 16:09 4 18 S 110 31 E

2.)AK- MADRAS MARU 3,790 tons 10/24/1944 18:24 4 16 N 104 57 E

3.)AK-ATSUTASAN MARU 7,827 tons 10/28/1944 21:48 8 06 N 104 41 E

4.) AO- GENYO MARU 11,800 tons 11/06/1944 03:22 6 56 N 104 00 E

Damage to submarine: Torpedo tubes 7 and 9 inoperable. Main fuel oil tank requires repair. Minor hull damage requires repair. Forward batteries require repair or replacement, unable to gain full charge.

Casualties: One KIA, 3 WIA by gunfire but recovered. Eleven minor injuries due to depth charging. Two cases of hysteria left crewmembers "shaken" but recovered and one "manic", remained so rest of patrol. This crewmember Dismissed from crew, disqualified from submarine duty.

Summary Comments: A short, challenging patrol, albeit successful. Enemy ASW measures have improved dramatically from just a few months ago. Convoys are large and well protected. Air patrols are a constant threat. SBT decoys proved quite valuable during evasion.

Mine exploding after hits from 40 MM gun.

https://i.postimg.cc/dkcL3R7K/mineexplosions1.png (https://postimg.cc/dkcL3R7K)

Bubblehead1980

05-31-21, 09:46 PM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods.
100 realism cams on contacts off.

USS Baya SS-318
Fourth War Patrol
7 December 1944-14 January 1945
Area B4 and B5 - South China Sea
Departed with 68 Officers and Men aboard.
18 Mark 18 torpedoes
6 Mark 14 torpedoes
300 rounds 5 inch ammunition.
2000 rounds 40 MM ammunition.
2000 rounds 20 MM ammunition.

Departed Fremantle 7 December and conducted gunnery drills en route to Exmouth Gulf. Arrived off entrance to Gulf on 9 December but stormy conditions delayed entrance by twenty four hours until cleared. Refuel and departed for patrol area via Lombok Strait.

Night of 12 January transited Lombok Strait. No patrol craft encountered, one SD contact emitting radar was detected but did not come within 7 NM of Baya. Exited strait and headed for patrol area via Sibutu Pass. Sulu Sea/ Mindoro Strait due to intelligence of recent mining efforts of Balabac Strait by Japanese.

Detected Allied landing forces off Mindoro at Mangarin Bay on 14 December.

Arrived in patrol area after midnight on 17 December. Anticipated few contacts as Japanese convoy routes had shift closer to Indochina and China coast but remained vigilant. However, only contacts have from arrival in patrol area for next nine days were the occasional patrol aircraft for which Baya submerged to remain undetected.

An enemy heavy cruiser with a destroyer escorting was reported 100 NM NW of Baya on 23 December, attempted to intercept but unable to establish contact. Resumed patrol.

25 December 2301: SJ contact Bearing 093 12 NM. Position: 13 10 N 113 40 E.

Immediately began closing at full speed. As it became apparent by changing bearing this group of ships were moving at high speed, increased to flank speed and slowly began to gain proper position. PPI showed a single column of five contacts flanked by four contacts presumed to be escorts. Radar emissions were coming from multiple vessels. Given the speed and radar emissions, presumed these to be warships, perhaps an enemy task force.

2341:Went to General Quarters. Given the radar emissions and full moon, opted for a submerged torpedo attack. Needing extra speed, Baya was pushed on overload and made 22 knots, enough to pull ahead of the group's estimated 19.5-20 knots.

26 December-

0203- Submerged for attack. Conned boat inside the screen to fire at main body from 1000 yards. In the dark but moonlight night, observed A DD leading a Myoko Class Heavy Cruiser and an unknown Light Cruiser. Readied all Mark 18 's in tubes 1-6 and had stern tubes readied as well.

0221: Fired six Mark 18 torpedoes. Range: 1000 yards AOB: 70 Target speed: 20.5 knots Point(s) of AIM: three to middle of target, two forward, one aft. Torpedo Depth:10 feet.

0222: All six torpedoes impacted at roughly points of aim. Third hit amidships caused a large explosion, likely the ships engines as she seemed to slow rapidly as other torpedoes hit.

0224: The CA was left adrift and burning from bow to stern. The light CL beyond her spotted Baya's scope as she had turned at high speed upon impact and was now just 300 yards away with her Spotlight was on Baya and firing at her periscope scope.

0225 With destroyers pinging and rushing in as well as risk of ramming by the CL, Ordered Baya to 450 feet, rigged for Silent Running and Depth Charge. Two SBT decoys were dropped during the descent. Passed thermal layer at 274 feet.

0228: As Baya passed 378 feet first destroyer made a depth charge run. As roared overhead ordered flank speed with ten degrees left rudder and one more decoy released.

Other destroyers were heard dropping charges some distance away, likely having detected the previously released decoys. However, the destroyer focused on us was first team and did not take the bait as made three successive runs on Baya. While no serious damage was suffered, the boat was shaken by charges on each run as the destroyer seemed to find Baya's depth.

At 0241 as destroyer made another run after four minutes of pinging, as destroyer stopping just before passing overhead to drop, ordered ahead flank, hard port rudder, and depth of 575 feet. Deployed decoy at 500 feet
and leveled boat off at 575 feet.

The destroyer seemed to lose contact and dropped charges some distance off , believe on the last decoy released. As Baya began to slip away, another DD rushed into the scene and began pinging. After ten minutes of pinging Baya and stopped, attacking something else, seemed to regain contact on Baya as rushed in, ordered ahead flank hard starboard turn and took the boat to 600 feet.The destroyer seemed to lose contact as made no more close runs on Baya.

0253 sounds of the cruiser sinking and breaking up were heard, confirming the sinking of the Myoko Class CA.

0304 sonar reported warships leaving area at very high speed. In case of "sleepers", Baya remained submerged for next hour. While ideally would have stayed down longer, wanted to utilize remaining night to pull ahead for a dawn follow up attack if possible.

0400- Slowly began ascent to periscope depth. At scope depth and then radar depth, area was clear.

0415- Surfaced and set course to 090 at flank seed. As departed area, checked the estimated position of the Myoko's sinking. debris, oil slick, and floatsam were discovered further confirming the sinking.

0430 Secured from General Quarters and continued pursuit for end around.

0521 SJ detected the task force making estimated 16 knots. Went back to GQ and commenced end around passing tf at 5 NM, at times having to move further away due to marauding escort on starboard flank,

0601: Ahead of convoy with Mark 14's in forward tubes, rushed in on surface. Sky was lighter but still dark enough fire high speed surface run before diving in order to fire from close range.

0618 Baya was 5000 yards off track and 9000 yards from target.Now had visual on the CL now identified as an Oyodo Class Light Cruiser. As was preparing to dive, radar detected the starboard flank and lead destroyers moving toward Baya while rest of group turned to NE. Unlikely Baya was visually spotted in the dark, enemy radar must have detected her. Turned away at high speed but enemy destroyers with their obvious speed advantage were closing in. One in particular was running right down Baya's track. Prepared for down the throat shot with Mark 18's in stern tubes but when target was at 4800 yards began zigging making the success of a long range bow shot unlikely. Anticipating would be illuminated fired upon any second, ordered a dive.

Once submerged, ordered decoy dropped at 150 feet and began a slow turn to port . Took Baya to 600 feet. While pinging did contact Baya, the destroyer never gained a lock and no depth charges were close After thirty minutes they left the area

0705 After remaining submerged in case of sleepers, Baya was back at scope depth with no enemy contacts in sight. No radar contacts either. Surfaced but had to submerged again due to aircraft in area.

Finally at 0830 surfaced.With crew fatigue setting in, batteries needing to be charged, and chances of regaining contact low, broke off pursuit and resumed patrol.

At 1200 on 26 December received radio report that the task force we encountered the previous evening was observed by patrol planes and believed to be heading to attack the Mindoro landing area. After some quick navigation and plotting, turned course for Mindoro at flank speed run as beleieved if could not make it there before the enemy arrived, could be in position to catch them as withdrew.

As we passed 15 NM N of Calauit Island just after 2334 on 26 December, could in the darkness of the night, see flashes in the distance, most likely that was an engagement off Mindoro.

As crossed the Mindoro Strait at high speed, SD made multiple contacts, USAAF bombers based in area making their attacks. A report came in saying PT boats and aircraft were attacking.

0111 saw large fireball in the distance.

0141 SJ made contact on several large vessels at 000 heading our way at high speed. (position 12 20 N 120 50 E in Mindoro Strait).

Closed for night surface attack as aircraft continued to harass the retiring enemy force. Targeted the largest ship, which was previously identified Oyodo Light Cruiser.

0146 AB-25 was spotted flying low and burning and crashed just 400 yards off starboard side of Baya.

0148 4000 yards off track as prepared to fire, the two DD's leading the the CL in the single column suddenly turned towards at high speed Baya and opened fire. Immediately ordered a dive and boat settled to periscope depth. Turned Baya into the lead DD rushing in, presenting a perfect 0 degree AOB for a down the throat shot.

0150 With the DD (believed to be Shiratsuyu Class) at 600 yards fired three Mark 14's and ordered a dive to 600 feet. As passed 90 feet. Three large explosions heard as three torpedoes impacted the target. Several secondary explosions occurred as well. The other DD was heard to no longer be closing. Came to scope depth to observe the Shiratsuyu as it slipped under the waves bow first.

The other DD was on fire and burning, apparently from aircraft hits but soon detected Baya and came in. At 600 feet was able to avoid the persistent and effective yet somewhat brief depth charge attack.

Back at scope depth thirty minutes later, could see gunfire in the distance towards west side of Mindoro Strait. Surfaced but was unable to regain contact with enemy. Secured from GQ and set course for return to patrol area.

27 December

0714- While on bridge observed pink smoke marker in distance at bearing 075. Turned course at best speed.

0744- Rescued downed B-25 aircrewman at 12 33 N 119 59 E off Busuanga Island. Six minutes later rescued another downed aircrewman in same location several hundred yards apart.

27 December-4 January- Patrolled assigned area in South China Sea. No further contacts aside from a daily patrol plane. Avoided being sighted while in area.

5 January 1945: 0000- Departed patrol area due to low fuel (high speed runs consumed a lot of fuel) and set course for Fremantle arriving 14 January where terminated patrol.

Patrol Stats:

Total Vessels Sunk:2
Total Tonnage:
Torpedoes Fired:9 Mark 18=6 Mark 14=3
Number of attacks made: 2
5 inch ammunition expended:0
40 ammunition expended:0
20mm expended:0

Ships Sunk:

1.) CA- Myoko Class Heavy Cruiser 15879 tons 1944/12/26 0253 hours. Position:12 50 N 116 E

2.) DD-Shiratsuyu Class Destroyer 1685 tons 1944/12/27 0150 hours. Position: 12 21 N 120 39 E in Mindoro Strait.

Aircrew Rescued:2

Rescue # 1: 1944/12/27 0744. 12 33 N 119 59 E 15 NM off Busuanga Island.

Rescue #2: 1944/12/27 0750. 12 33 N 119 59 E 15 NM off Busuanga

Bubblehead1980

06-10-21, 04:17 PM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
USS Besugo SS-321 2nd War Patrol
10 November- 3 December 1944
100 realism. Cams on contacts on (testing modifications to TMO)

10 November:

0900- Departed Saipan for patrol Area A2 in South China Sea East of Luzon. Upon completion of patrol, ordered terminate at Fremantle, Australia.

10 November-15 November transited to Patrol area.

17 November-

0240- SJ made contact on convoy at 12 NM bearing 321 degrees. Ordered intercept course.

0255- PPI scope revealed 17 pips with six forming a protective screen. Low light conditions and calm seas optimal for surfaced torpedo attack. Set course to try and enter convoy screen from port while escort was out of position sweeping. However a previously unseen escort appeared and quashed this opportunity. Pulled away to try and enter convoy from rear.

0320- Convoy screen at rear is too heavy with two escorts and merchant in column trailing a big , not enough distance to sneak in at required speeds. Pulled away and would try to enter screen from the front.

0340- Slipped past lead escort (Type C Escort) at 2800 yards and turned directly into convoy.

0348- Penetrated convoy between two center columns. Turned Besugo to starboard target SEITO MARU tanker (5600 tons) with rear tubes (Mark 18's) and KITRUIN MARU troopship with bow tubes. AOB on Kitruin was 40 with AOB on Tanker 110.

0351- Fired 4 Mark 18's at tanker from stern tubes. Fired three Mark 14's from bow tubes at troopship.

0352- Torpedo 1 hit the troopship was failed to detonate(reported as dud by sound operator. Rare issue at this point) but torpedoes 3 and 4 impacted and detonated. Troopship may have been loaded with ammunition as it exploded in a large flame and numerous secondary explosions occurred. Ship quickly began to settle.

0353-Stern torpedoes hit the tanker, which exploded in a massive fireball. Obviously loaded with fuel.

Turned to port and sped up to flank speed to get away from the scene was two flank escorts were heading our direction. Besugo was illuminated by the burning fires, several nearby merchants opened fire with machine gun/autocannons and deck guns. Several splashes landed in vicinity but non close. As disappeared into darkness and avoided spotlight of nearby merchant, gunfire ceased. The escorts were trolling the area of the sinkings but were astern as Besugo located another tanker, a 10000 ton NIPPON MARU class.

0401-Large explosion in far starboard column, torpedoes from another submarine found home. Escorts began flocking to the area except for one that was closing from the rear of convoy on Besugo's location. The tanker turned presenting a zero AOB and with no room or time to maneuver, fired one Mark 14 down the throat of the tanker. (shades of Ramage in Parche 31 July 1944)

0402-Torpedo impacted the tankers bow, setting off a massive explosion and fireball. Tanker obviously loaded with fuel. Burning and drifting, she was finished and eventually sunk.

0403-Noticed the escort was closing fast, turned to port at high speed to present stern and open distance. However, a nearby merchant's spotlight combined with the tankers burning fire illuminated Besugo, along with her gunfire.

0404-A large explosion in the far port column. Seems another pack mate attacked convoy. Right after, the escort opened fire with her deck guns from just 3200 yards, with splashes landing near forcing Besugo to dive

0406- As Besugo passed 200 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge, many splashes were heard as escort roared overhead. Large pattern of charges exploded above, estimated depth of 100-150 feet. Boat shaken, minor leaks in conning tower above periscope, quickly stopped. Dropped SBT decoys as descended. Leveling boat off at 525 feet.

0410 - Two escorts now on scene making runs, one focused on decoy while other seemed to have Besugo pegged. As it made run went ahead flank and ordered 575 feet. Many splashes heard. A large pattern of depth charges exploded, mostly above but two were close boat's depth no serious damage.

0413-Boat leveled off at 600 feet. Both escorts seemed to focus on decoys.

0416- Strong pinging signal from an escort closing from ahead as Besugo continued slow starboard turn. As closed ordered more depth and ahead flank. Slowed and leveled at 650 feet after charges exploded, began turn to port.

0416-0500 several more patterns were dropped but none close as escort seem to have lost contact.

0510- Attempted to rise to scope depth but a "sleeper" started up engines, Went back to 600 feet.

0730- All was clear on sound. Came to scope depth, then made SJ and SD sweep. Surfaced and close lone contact at 11000 yards , likely was a wounded merchant but with caution in case a "sleeper." As dawn broke, observed a mid sized merchant believed to be 4800 ton KANAGA MARU down by the stern. Believe this was the port merchant torpedoed by another submarine at 0404. Ordered all guns manned to finish off the merchant.

0745- As Besugo closed and was about to open fire from 5000 yards, the KANAGA MARU, down by the bow, sunk at 18 34 N 118 37 E.

0750-Secured from GQ and commenced battery charge, heading on base course of convoy to regain contact.

0811-SD contact 10 NM. Forced to dive.

0930- Back on surface in pursuit, forced to dive multiple times due to aircraft.

18 November-

0000- Unable to regain contact, broke off pursuit and turned to course 030.

0900-SJ made contact on two pips at 11 NM closing. APR-1 detected radar emissions from the contacts bearing. Closed at high speed to investigate.

0920-In distance observed masts of a CA or CL , lead vessels appeared to be a DD. Called General Quarters-torpedo. Closed to cross the track and attack submerged with Mark 18's in stern tubes.

0925- DIVE

0934-Indentified a NAGARA Class CL with a Matsu Class DE on course 141 estimated speed 22 knots.

0938-Stern tubes ready. Depth set to 8 feet. Would fire from 1900 yards.

0940-Fired tubes 7, 8, and 9.

0943-One torpedo hit amidships of the CL. Other two missed, believe the ran deeper than set as should have hit.(Did something rarely do and used attack map, it showed them as should have been hits, only explanation is deep runner, still a an issue at this point with Mark 18, although somewhat rare)

0944- The Nagara slowed but turned away at 14-16 knots, while the Matsu closed in. Decided to present stern for a down the throat shot on the Matsu with last Mark 18. As was turning, an aircraft appeared overhead. Ordered a dive. As passed 124 feet, three close explosions rocked Besugo, minor damage to conning tower.

0946- As passed 400 feet, the DE roared overhead and dropped large pattern of depth charges. Many of these were close, bow torpedo room took brunt of damage, minor flooding was quickly stopped. Deployed decoys as continued descent.

0947-Multiple explosions overhead and at boat level, causing shaking and some damage in engine room and to trim pump, possibly MAD equipped. Believed from aircraft as DE was estimated 1000 yards away.

0950- At 575 feet, leveled off. DE roared overhead once again and let loose a large pattern. Went ahead flank with a slight turn to port. Charges exploded above, estimated 520-550 feet.

1030- DE has been quiet for 40 minutes, believe listening as Besugo crept along at 575 feet.

1041-Suddenly DE engines sprung to life, reported at 500 yards, began rapid pinging and dropped a large but inaccurate pattern.

1042-DE continued to move away at high speed towards last known direction of the CL.

1100-Lost sound contact with both DE and CL.

1104-Several explosions in general area, believed to be aircraft.

1300-At periscope depth, SD and SJ radar clear.

1302-Surfaced. Set pursuit course of damaged CL.

1330-SD contact forced Besugo to dive as it closed 6 NM.

1345-Surface.

1601-SJ regained contact on two pips, presumed to be the CL and DE. Pursued at high speed.

1900- Appeared CL still maintained speed advantage as was unable to close distance below 7 NM but able to maintain with CL. Estimated speed of 20-21 knots.Continued pursuit in case of zig or slow down.

19 November-

0000-Discontinued pursuit of CL.

1440- SJ contact on large Northbound convoy at 11 NM. Pulled ahead to shadow until night fall for surface attack.

1500-1900-An patrolling aircraft forced Besugo to submerged several times, but remained undetected.

2100-General Quarters. PPI scope showed 15 ships with 5 (presumed escorts). Approached convoy from rear as flanks were too heavily guarded.

2131-Inside convoy screen between two center columns.

2140 set up on a large HEIAN MARU freighter (11800 tons) with bow tubes. Fired three Mark 14's from 2000 yards.

2141- Two torpedoes hit, one missed. Freighter burning and listing. Spotlight and gunfire from a KOTO MARU freighter astern. Soon left it behind as HEIAN MARU capsized. Observed a kaibokan type escort from port side rushing in towards the scene.

2145-Gunfire ceased as Besugo disappeared into the darkness. Observed an AKEBONO MARU tanker. and began closing. Ships were now zigging making proper shots difficult.

2151- SD contact. Night flyer coming in. As contact neared, all stop. 40 MM guns manned in case. Plane had radar as APR-1 was detecting emissions but in darkness failed to spot Besugo . SD flew over convoy and remained in area before departing.

2200- Convoy zigged, throwing Besugo out of position. Spent next hour or so attempting to regain position. Forced to dive once due to SD contact.

20 November-

0002-Fired three Mark 14 torpedoes at the tanker from 2100 yards

0003- All three torpedoes hit, tanker exploded into the expected fireball and quickly sunk. Went ahead flank dodging gunfire and spotlights. Some machine gun or auto cannon fire scored a few hits. Damage reported to periscope shears, aft 40 MM gun and one crewmember lightly wounded. Several large shell splashes landed about 100 yards away. Soon ceased as raced into the darkness.

0004-Observed three escorts one from astern and two from starboard flank heading in towards scene of last attack. Now had three Mark 14's left forward and one Mark 18 aft.

0006- Forward escort was now heading towards Besugo, as if intended to enter convoy. A set up of being trapped was possible but the escorts astern had slowed and were investigating area of last tanker sunk.

Observed could torpedo a mid sized freighter and small freighter forward and a mid sized freighter aft with remaining aft torpedo. The two ships forward damaged or sunk would open a large gap in far column and permit an easy escape on surface.

0014 - Fired one torpedo at a small troopship (TYOHEI MARU) and two MADRAS MARU, with remaining stern torpedo at SEIA MARU mid sized freighter astern.

0016-First torpedo missed the small troopships (possible deep runner), second missed, but third hit MADRAS MARU.

0017- Stern torpedo hit SEIA MARU amidships causing large explosion and fire.

0018- As conned the boat to exit convoy came under fire at close range from Madras Maru, which was listing from its torpedo hit. The smaller troopship (now properly identified as a TAIHOSAN MARU small frieghter) also opened fire and illuminated Besugo with spotlight. Besugo moved at high speed dodging shell splashes. A few light MG or auto cannon rounds impacted but no apparent damage. 40 MM guns already manned due to earlier aircraft, ordered them to open fire(love having them set as deck guns. Player can man them as AA guns and provide a deterrent in emergency) on Madras Maru, with orders to aim for weapons. The effect seemingly silenced the gunners on Madras Maru as the listing ship stopped firing but was not yet sinking and spotlight remained on Besugo.

0019 Ordered 5 inch gun manned in case needed. Noticed on PPI scope now had four escorts from different directions closing in on position.

0020- Taihosan Maru continued lobbing shells despite slowing to avoid leaving wake (speed matters in detect, its a setting in the sim.cfg) and when one came too close for comfort. Ordered 5 inch gun to open fire. Four successive hits plus 40 MM fire set the small freighter on fire and turning away at best speed , guns silenced. Besugo ceased fire.

0025- SEIA MARU sunk. Escorts rapidly closing. Besugo speeding away and could avoid all but had one, the port flank escort who was forward racing in Besugo's direction and he had radar as APR-1 was detecting emissions, seemed to have a fix. Soon noticed others headed in direction, alerted by this escort. Ordered gun crews below and if could not outrun him, would dive.

0030 escort closed to 4000 yards. Identified at a Type C escort. While could match Besugo's speed, could not overtake us.

0032- Gambling he did not have an exact fix. Slowed to 14 knots and Put on 5 degrees starboard rudder to begin gentle turn off his course, slowly presenting stern with a little broadsides as he passed, ready to dive immediately if spotted.

0037- Escort passed astern of Besugo at 3800 yards. Besugo resumed flank speed to depart area.

0051- SD contact ordered a dive.

0100- Surface. Secure from GQ. Out of torpedoes, set course for Fremantle, Australia.

29 November

2200-Transited Lombok Strait Southbound.

2351-Avoided three PC types in center of strait.

2359-SD contact, never closed more than 6 NM. Radar detected.

30 November-

0004-Observed surfaced minefield east side off Lombok Island.

0021- Exited Lombok Strait.

1 December-4 December-

En route Fremantle.

5 December

0815- Arrived Fremantle. Terminated patrol.

Patrol Stats:

Patrol duration: 25

Days in area:5

Number of torpedo attacks:

3

Ships sunk: 7( 4 AK 3 AO)

Ships damaged: 2- 1CL, 1 AK.

Torpedoes Expended:24

Torpedo malfunctions: 1 dud confirmed, 4 believed to have ran deeper than set.

5 inch rounds expended:12

40 MM rounds expended:84

20 MM rounds expended:0

Damage: light-MG AC fire. Minor DC damage.

KIA:0

WIA: 1 (mild, returned to duty)

Some screenshots:

https://postimg.cc/gallery/C8dG8Tx

https://i.postimg.cc/RWKjbv8W/map1.png (https://postimg.cc/RWKjbv8W)

Arlo

06-10-21, 06:55 PM

With our first patrol cut short by uncontrollable flooding in our aft torpedo room (I recommended a commendation for bravery for Chief Moseley who managed to secure the compartment and make sure he and everyone made it out) we set out on our second patrol intent on making up for lost time.

Following our being spotted by aircraft during daylight charging of our batteries as we approached Japan, sonar detected a warship heading to our position from long range (we later surmised that it was directed to us by the aircraft). When finally in view of our periscope the craft was small and it was approaching on a direct course. We were somewhat stationary with just enough push to shift heading. I ordered the helmsman to make full right rudder until our bow tubes were presented directly. Holding off until the craft was within 1000 yards, we fired off two torpedoes (knowing we've had some duds recently). One hit and the sub chaser went down quickly.

Closer to the coast running on the surface at dusk, we were again spotted by aircraft and dove to avoid. Once again a warship was directed to us with similar results to the first (using only one torpedo this time.

In our patrol zone we looked for merchant tonnage to sink. A large oiler (estimated to be 10,000 tons) was sighted but a nearby warship was making it impossible for us to surface and set up an intercept course. I ordered to make aft tubes available to sink what ended up being a destroyer escort. This ship, though, was not headed directly our way. It was running a search pattern nearby. Closing the distance while running in reverse, we got as close as possible, and attacked within 1200 yds. Two torpedoes were fired thirty seconds apart. When it was estimated the first torpedo missed the DE appeared to hone in directly and sped our direction. We emptied our remaining stern tubes. One out of the four hit its mark.

After the sinking of the DE we surfaced to catch up with the large oiler. We finally were able to set up a good shot on it several hours later and 3 torpedoes were fired, all three scoring hits with no duds. It broke in half and sank quickly.

Deciding to make our way back to deeper water, we crawled along with our battery charge low but managed to avoid being found. Surfacing at night, we resumed standard speed in order to make time while charging. After a couple of hours we received some light damage from a shore battery that went unnoticed by us on our way inbound through the shallow passage (near hits can still break things). We submerged at 2/3 speed for awhile then resurfaced to resume our escape to deeper waters but before that occurred we managed to find more merchant shipping of considerable tonnage and sending a tanker and merchant to the bottom.

Being low on torpedoes and being cleared to return from patrol when checking in, we made our way directly back to Pearl for replenishment and repairs.

https://i.imgur.com/48wOtow.png

https://i.imgur.com/9VMKAxX.png

https://youtu.be/PphFyJPsRbM

Cdr. T.E. Sting

Bubblehead1980

06-10-21, 10:12 PM

Arlo

06-10-21, 11:18 PM

Enjoyed the video. Curious, how do you record your patrols?

I use GEForce Experience (its a program that came with my video card software). I then edit it with videoeditor (cut things down to clips, turn them into grey tone, add sound). I'm getting better at it (I think). I wanted this to look like camera footage taken from the scope. I should have del keyed the game toolbar out. :Kaleun_Cheers:

Bubblehead1980

06-13-21, 02:24 PM

I use GEForce Experience (its a program that came with my video card software). I then edit it with videoeditor (cut things down to clips, turn them into grey tone, add sound). I'm getting better at it (I think). I wanted this to look like camera footage taken from the scope. I should have del keyed the game toolbar out. :Kaleun_Cheers:

Nice. I want to give it a try, record some patrols. Also want to do demonstration of night surface attacks in my upgrade for TMO, attacking on surface at night from inside the convoy.

Bubblehead1980

06-15-21, 03:13 AM

Sim played out close to what actually happened in April 1945 for USS Besugo.

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
100 realism. cams and contacts off.
USS Besugo SS-321
4th War Patrol

3/24/1945-

0900-Departed Fremantle under new Commanding Officer LCDR H.E. Miller (editing the career track, switch up CO's every 5 patrols or so or to correspond with historical dates and focus more on the boat and crew than individual CO career, trying to implement this new focus into TMO update. LCDR H.E. Miller historically did relieve CDR T.L. Wogan after Besugo's third patrol in February 1945) assigned to patrol Area E6 in the Java Sea.

3/26- Fueled at Exmouth Gulf.

3/29-Transited Lombok Strait Northbound. No patrols encountered. Cleared strait by 2330 hours.

4/1-

0700- SD contact. Submerged to avoid.

4/2-4/3- patrol

4/4-

1640- SJ contact bearing 315 11 NM. 6 30 N 115 20 E. APR-1 detected emissions.

Target indentified as Nagara Class CL with two MS and one TB escort. Target on course 270 at estimated 22 knots.

1730- Submerged.

1740-Attack No.1 6 20 S 116 20 E. Fired four Mark 18 set for 10 feet from stern tubes.Range: 2100 yds. AOB 70 . Point of Aim: MOT with two degree spread using TDC spread knob.

1744- All torpedoes missed. Believe target changed speed as observed slight course change upon rising scope to observe expected torpedo impact. Sound showed torpedoes missing ahead by just 20-50 yards (estimated).

1745- Aircraft observed via attack periscope diving for Besugo. Ordered dive to 150 feet. Bombs detonated, no damage. One escort was heard breaking off to the area but did not search long, returned.

1820-Surface and initiated pursuit of enemy cruiser. Regained SJ contact but unable to close distance beyond 8 NM due to speed differential.

0000-Terminated pursuit. Returned to patrol area.

6 April-

0300- ULTRA received indicating enemy CL Isuzu(Nagara Class, attacked on 4 April en route to Bima Bay, apparently) on transport mission from Kupang Harbor, Timor to Bima Bay Sumbawa Island would transit Sape Strait between 1600-2000 hours 6 April. . Along with Charr and Gablian, directed to area. (submerged AI torpedo firing subs placed in TMO upgrade).

Plot showed Besugo could make Sape Strait by 1300 on 6 April at 18 knots. Proceeded to Sape Strait.

1304- Entered Sape Strait(North). Observed multiple mines. Besugo had inadvertently entered a previously unreported minefield. Backed out without course change and ordered guns manned. Using 40 MM, 20 MM, and 5 inch gun fire...fired upon and destroyed four mines.

1345- Departed area due to minefield. Moved to position 8 10 S 118 40 E off Sumbawa in attempt to ambush enemy upon arrival at entrance to Bima Bay.

1900- Enemy detected on SJ, attempted to intercept but enemy speed was high with radical course changes within a few thousand yards of the shore after passing the narrow strait between Sumbawa and Sangeang Island. A persistent radar equipped patrol craft also contributed to hampering the interception.

2100- Unable to gain attack position, moved further away from coast

2300-ULTRA received indicating the CL (identified as Isuzu-Nagara Class) would depart Bima for Surabaya after 0200 7 April

7 April-

0651 - SJ contact bearing 031 11 NM. 7 50 S 118 30 E 35 NM NW of Bima Bay. APR-1 detected radar emissions. Went to GQ and initiated intercept course.

0701- Radar indicated targets slowed with what was believed to be one escort and the Isuzu and another escort heading in different directions. Explosions of depth charges heard in distance. Another submarine attacked. Closed to assist but forced to dive by a patrol plane.

0811- SJ sweep detected two pips heading towards Besugo. Surfaced and closed at 20 knots. Due to the calm, clear morning, was soon able to spot the Nagara Class CL (Isuzu) and MS in the distance. Plotted course and speed, believe would transit through the Tengah Islands. SJ showed another pip racing to catch up with two main pips, believed to be escort attempting to rejoin the Isuzu and the other escort.

0900- Ahead of target, waited for a expected zig to NW and submerged for attack.

0908- Target observed on course 310 at 19 knots. Target track was proving too close for bow shot and would be directly under the leading escort. . Besugo conducted a turn away to bring stern tubes to bare.

0912-Attack No 2: 7 18 S 117 55 E Fired 4 Mark 18 torpedoes set for 8 feet from stern tubes. Range 1900 yds. AOB 71 Point of AIM:Middle, Middle, Forward, Aft.

0914- Torpedoes 1 and 2 hit the stern and just forward of the stern of the cruiser, which set off the depth charge rack and aft magazine. Torpedo 3 hit amidships leaving a large visible hole under the middle stack. Torpedo 4 hit under the third stack. Target quickly slowed with a turn away from Besugo with two large fires burning. A list to starboard and by the stern quickly developed.

0915 - A large series of explosions, presumed to be the magazines were observed. Isuzu quickly took a sharp down angle by stern while rolling to starboard and sunk at 7 18 S 117 E east. No survivors or lifeboats observed.

Simultaneously, pinging began. Observed a Shimushu Class Type A Escort(previously identified as an MS) closing in from 1800 yards. Ordered a dive to 450 feet, rigged for silent running, and depth charge. Two SBT decoys deployed. Escort did not take the bait and continued pinging Besugo.

0919. As Besugo passed 375 feet, escort passed overhead and dropped a sizeable DC pattern. All exploded above.

0921-Leveled off at 450 feet.

0922-0945- Escort conducted four attacks with the last two being accurate causing minor damage. Most serious was trim pump and battery damage.

0952- Besugo descended to 600 ft depth. On the 5th attack, a close pattern exploded above the conning tower and forward torpedo room. Leaks and mild flooding occurred in both. The flooding in conning tower was quickly stopped but the flooding forward was serious . With the trim pump not operating at 100 percent, the flooding forward gave Besugo a slight down angle and she began to sink beyond ordered depth. To avoid rapid sinking, ordered rise on planes and minimal forward speed , adding back speed as required. Deployed three decoys as Besugo slowly descended . The 6th and 7th attacks landed no close charges as escort focused on escorts

1005- Besugo at 701 ft. Flooding stopped and rate of descent checked. Maneuvered about at 700-720 feet. Trim pump repaired.

1021- Depth-650 feet.

1031- Escort appeared to regain sonar contact as closed in and made another run. Two charges were fairly close and caused minor damage in engine rooms.

1035-1054- Escort, obviously first team, made two more attacks, shaking Besugo badly as she descended again to 675 feet but charges were above.Water finally pumped out of conning tower and forward torpedo room.

1101- Sound reported a second escort arrived in area.

1110-1304- Both escorts took turns making repeated depth charge attacks on Besugo. At 1231 ,a depth of 750 feet was reached to get below the intense and accurate attacks. Minor damage was incurred from these attacks, most serious of which being periscopes and JT listening gear heavily damaged.

From 1305, no sound contacts detected, believe escorts were "sleeping" listening for Besugo. To conserve power Besugo was back at 575 feet. slipping away to SW at 2 1/2 knots.

1619- Sound had one escort suddenly roaring to life at 900 yards and another at 1200, both began pinging and roared overhead. Dropping patterns of charges. However, none were close and appeared to explode either well above or well below Besugo. Sound then lost contact and was unable to regain contact. Believe escorts were "sleeping" at this time.

1650- Sound reported two warships moving away at medium speed to NW. Secured from GQ maintained silent running.

1900- Periscope depth. Dark had fallen. Neither No 1 nor No 2 periscopes functional. Sound and SJ sweeps clear. Secure silent running.

1910-Surface.

2000-All damage repaired except No 1 and No 2 periscopes. Unable to repair attack scope while observation scope heavily damaged, barely functional. With eight torpedoes (All stern ) expended and scopes damaged, decided to set course for Fremantle for repair and rearm, to continue war patrol as soon as possible.

9 April- Transited Lombok Strait Southbound, no patrols encountered.

12 April- 1700- Arrived Fremantle.

13 April-Repairs, rearm, refuel completed.

14 April-0900-Departed Fremantle to continued war patrol.

16 April-Topped off fuel tanks at Exmouth Gulf.

17-18 April-Heavy seas and storms slowed transit.

19 April-

0121- Cleared Lombok Strait Northbound.

20 April-

0100- Received ULTRA indicating a large transport with escorts would depart Surabaya for Singapore via North coast of Java to Banten Bay and Bangka Straits at 1900 hours. Proceeded on course at best speed.

2205- SJ contact 9 NM bearing 090 6 45 S 112 20 E. PPI showed two large pips with six vessels in tight circle, presumed to be escorts. The convoy was transiting just 6000 yards off North Coast of Java.Submerged to avoid numerous planes throughout day.

2210- General Quarters for Torpedo Attack-Surface. Conditions were ideal with no moonlight and calm seas.

2230- Lead vessel was a large 7000 ton freighter, trailing vessel was a very large ton tanker, identified as the NOKURA MARU (14800 tons). Decided to swing stern around when convoy zigged towards to fire four stern torpedoes at the tanker.

2244- Attack No. 3: Fired four Mark 18 torpedoes at five second intervals, depth of 12 feet. Point of AIM :MOT with 2 degree spread along length. Range 2400 yards. AOB: 70 starbord. Enemy speed 14 knots. Course 285 degrees.

2246- All four torpedoes hit target, resulting in three very large explosions and a massive fireball. The tanker split amidships into two sections, her keel broken. NOKURA MARU sunk 6 44 S 112 14 E.

Immediately upon impact, the nearest escort spotted Besugo after star shells and the burning fires illuminated the area. As Besugo raced away at flank speed, vessel turned to pursue and several shell splashes were observed, one coming within 25 yards.

2248 Gunfire ceased as escort seemed to lose contact. Although there was just 60 feet below keel, an SBT decoy was deployed in and effort to give the pursuing escort the impression that Besugo had submerged.

2250- Escort slowed, fired a star shell, began circling location of decoy and dropped several large patterns of depth charges, it seemed the ruse worked.

2251-Observed a DE type moving towards Besugo at high speed. This contact was soon identified as a Matsu Class DE. APR-1 detected radar emissions from this DE. Besugo turned to show its stern to the Matsu at 4000 yards. The Matsu seemed to have Besugo on radar as it increased speed and was closing the distance.

2253-Tube 7 was now reloaded with a Mark 18. Opened out door and prepared for a down the throat shot if required. Decided to gamble and make a slight turn to port with five degrees rudder to turn off the track of the Matsu

2255-In the distance several large dc explosions heard as escort continued to work over the decoy deployed earlier. The Matsu slowed and turn on its search lights directly ahead. Besugo was by this time off the track and racing away. DE spotlight illuminated Besugo's stern. Several shells splashed within 10-40 yards of Besugo. The DE turned and began closing, apparently gaining visual lock after losing radar lock. Tube 8 was now reloaded, opened out door as well and prepared for a down the throat shot.

2256-The DE suddenly began zigging back and forth, wary of coming right at the stern of an enemy submarine. This slowed the DE enough that Besugo was able to open the range and disappear into the darkness. The enemy DE continued probing with radar and seemed to regain contact intermittently but did not come within 3500 yards again nor open fire.

2300- DE slowed, dropped a pattern of depth charges, then stopped completely, as if to listen with hydrophones.

2321- Besugo was abeam of the convoy remnants... the freighter and three escorts. The other three escorts were still hunting in the area of the first attack.

Merchant was now moving at 7 knots zigging 4000-6000 yards off Java Coast.

2341- Attack No 4.- Fired three Mark 18 torpedoes from bow tubes 1,2, and 3 at 2500 yards AOB 70. Aimed for MOT.

2343- All torpedoes missed target. Apparently target increased speed after launch, causing the miss astern. A radar equipped escort became curious and suddenly headed towards Besugo at high speed. Made hard turn to starboard and departed area at flank speed. Escort was seen with searchlight on focusing on area Besugo was previously located.

2344-Raced ahead for end around and follow up attack. Three escorts were observed rejoining the formation at high speed, the Matsu DE taking the lead.

21 April-

0330- Attack No. 5-Fired four Mark 18 torpedoes at ATSUTASAN MARU class frieghter(7100 tons) 2400 yards. AOB 81. Target speed 14 knots Course 270. AIM: MOT, MOT, Aft, Forward. Fired as individual TBT bearings.

0332- Three torpedoes impacted freighter. Large fires consumed topside, freighter slowed and listed to starboard. Besugo turned away under heavy gunfire from escorts.

0333- Fourth torpedo inadvertently hit one an unidentified escort on the side of convoy closes to shore. Fires observed and vessel became stationary. The Matsu DE was closing fast on Besugo's position but was obstructed by the burning and drifting freighter, which prevented the DE from taking a direct course. This bought Besugo precious time and was able to escape into the dark of night.

0340-ATSUTSAN MARU 7100 tons sunk. 6 34 S 111 31 E

0341 - SD contact. A marauding night flyer circled the area. APR-1 detected radar emissions but did not observe Besugo.

0430-Cleared cost into deeper waters South of Bawean Island. Secured from GQ,

0645-As dawn broke submerged for SD contact at 6 NM.

0800-Surfaced.

22 April-

0900-Submerged to 150 feet to avoid aircraft. Bottom is 160 feet. 6 S 113 30 E

0911- Four large explosions above Besugo, close. Assume aircraft spotted Besugo in calm clear waters of Java Sea. Minor leaks throughout boat. Most serious damage was to compressor, pumps, and No 1 (Observation) periscope.

Remained submerged, changing course at high speed and using all available depth.

1000- 60 feet. SD showed two aircraft within 8 NM hunting Besugo. Turned to NE course at 4 knots.

1101-Sound reported fast screws approaching bearing 161. Two PC types observed in distance. Most likely called in by aircraft as Java coast was just 60 NM away.

1102-1400- Aircraft and PC searched area. One PC came within 6000 yards of Besugo.

1500- Sound lost contact.

1900-Sweeo with SJ SD and sound showed all clear. Surfaced into night.

23 April-

0000-Set course to clear coastal area to let things calm down

0640- 4 30 S 112 30 E. During morning trim dive-Sound sweep revealed faint props of possible submerged submarine at bearing 010. Set course at 3 knots for contact, remaining submerged.

0711-Sound had steady contact on props of submarine.

0742-Surfaced submarine spotted at bearing 355 estimated distance 9000 yards. General Quarters. Began approach course 180 at 3 knots

0750 - Unidentified submarine on course 090 estimated speed 13 knots.

0756-Target identified as a German Type 9 U-Boat. Course 092 12 knots. Ordered tubes 4,5, and 6 readied as contained Mark 18 wakeless torpedoes, while tubes 1,2, and 3 had Mark 23 steam torpedoes.

0804-Attack No. 6-Fired three Mark 18 torpedoes. Range 2400 yards AOB 70 AIM:MOT. Depth 5 feet.

0806-First torpedo impacted amidships under the conning tower, followed but the other two, the torpedo explosions causing the U-Boat to nearly fly out of the water, then crash back and briefly submerge. The bow broached at a high angle before settling. Within 20 seconds, the U-Boat disappeared. A small oil and debris field was located. Type 9 U Boat sunk 4 30 S 112 20 E 80 NM NNW Bawean Island.

24-29 April- No contacts.

30 April-

0600-10 NM south of Bawean Island. SD failed to detect aircraft until just 6 NM away. Aircraft flew over the island from the North. As Besugo passed 81 feet...five large explosions close and at Besugo's depth exploded. Conning tower took worst of damage with SJ radar damaged heavily and various leaks of piping and air lines. DC party activated.

0626- A series of explosions estimated 5000-9000 yards away, aircraft apparently dropping more bombs. Besugo limped away.

1300-Surfaced.

1400-Submerged to avoid aircraft.

1 May

0011- SJ contact bearing 010. 6 48 S 113 55 E. on small convoy of one merchant and two pc type escorts, 7000 yards off NE Java coast. Course 270 7 knots.

0405-General Quarters. Closed for attack. Heavy seas and full moon necessitated submerged attack. Shadowed convoy until was in location with 110 feet under keel as convoy would pass through a "deep" stretch off coast.. Felt the less than ideal sonar conditions would provide a margin of safety for Besugo.

0431- Attack No. 7 Fired Four Mark 23 torpedoes from bow tubes. Range 1800 yards AOB 87 Depth 10 feet.

0432-All four torpedoes hit target, obliterating it Believe target was ammo ship judging by numerous secondary explosions. KANAGA MARU 5100 tons sunk 6 52 S 113 26 E.

0433-Turned North at high speed to evade, then rigged for depth charge and silent running. Escorts came to area Besugo was at and dropped depth charges. The high speed run allowed Besugo to escape. The heavy seas concealed Besugo's escape.

0700- Secured from GQ and surfaced.

Avoided planes throughout day of 1 May.

2 May-

0624 Sighted what believed was a small PC type at 5 40 S 112 50 E 7 NM E Bawean Island. Seas calmed and used morning haze as cover to approach undetected for Battle Surface-Gun action. However, as closed range and fog cleared, vessel was revealed to be a minesweeper type. The APR-1 suddenly came to life detected radar emissions. The MS gave chase from 9000 yards. Turned Besugo away to NE at high speed.

0625-0630 five shell splashes observed in distance none close.

0650- MS gave up pursuit as was unable to close range.

3 May-

0504-

As clearing coast after a fruitless night of patrol, SJ contact bearing 170 at 6 20 S 111 0 E. Turned to intercept.

0520- Two small coastal freighters with 6 small PC type escorts on course 090 speed 8 knots 5000 yards from shore. With dawn coming soon and not enough depth for submerged attack and evasion, moved in to fire last torpedoes...four Mark 18's in stern tubes.

0538- Attack No. 8 Fired four Mark 18 torpedoes at two targets. 3100 yards AOB 67 . Depth 5 feet at MOT.Targets were both Taihosan Maru class coastal merchants 1800 tons each.

0542-Torpedoes missed both targets. Believe torpedoes ran deep. Choppy seas may have also been a factor.

0543- With all torpedoes expended and dawn breaking. Secured from GQ and raced away from coast. Once clear of coast, set course for Lombok Strait.

4 May-

0400- Cleared Lombok Strait Southbound

9 May -

1100- Docked at Fremantle. Terminated War Patrol.

Bubblehead1980

06-20-21, 12:09 AM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods.
100 realism. Cams and map contacts off.

Patrol Stats:

Assigned Patrol Area(s) E4- Java Sea, later D7-Western Borneo Coast
Days on Patrol:26
Crew on board: 72
Torpedoes on board at departure: 24 total. Mark 16 x7 Mark 14 x 8 Mark 27 x 2 Mark 18 x 7.

Gun ammunition on board at time of depature:

5 inch : 300

40 MM : 800

20 MM : 2000

Patrol Narrative and Results:

28 May-

1000- Depart Fremantle for Java Sea-Area E4.

30 May -
1200-1800- Refuel Exmouth Gulf

1 June-

2354- Transited Northbound Lombok Strait.

4 June

0501- ULTRA received. Enemy CA DD en route to Batavia from Singapore via Bangka Straits. ETA 5 June late PM>. Set course at arrive off Batavia for attempt intercept.

1400- SD contact 10 NM closing fast. 4 21 S 108 36 E. Dive.

1408- Depth 35 feet. Two explosions not close. Believed spotted in shallow waters ( 140 feet) and calm seas.

1410-Another explosion. Not close. Aircraft flying at low altitude can be heard through hull.

1440-
60 ft. SD sweep...all clear.

1509-Preparing to surface. SD contact 13NM closing

1930-Surface.

5 June-

0516- Position 5 50 S 106 30 E. 25 NM NW of Batavia.Likely route of target from Bangka Strait.

1201-Contact report received from BLUEBACK. One CA one DD exited Bangka Strait Southbound at 1130 hours. Target estimated course 185 25 knots. BLUEBACK unable to engage.

1322- SD contact 12 NM closing fast. 5 50 S 106 30 E. Dive.

1420- Sound contact. Heavy, fast screws at 358 degrees.

1421-Surface.

1428-SJ contact 352. 14 NM. APR-1 receiving radar emissions from contact bearing .Believe this is enemy CA DD observed by BLUEBACK.

1429-General Quarters.

1433- Targets appear to be hugging the Java coastline in shallow waters.

1439- Visually observed one CA and DD. Class unknown.

1441-Target identified as Myoko Class CA. DD appears to be Kamikaze Class DD. Course 114 est speed 24 knots.

1442-Range: 10000 yards. Submerged boat to 45 feet. Will fire long range as unable to get closer due to extreme shallow waters and coastal minefields.

1447- As was preparing to fire, target zigged towards BESUGO.New target course 090, speed 24 knots. Firing range should now be 5-6000 yards instead of 8000.

1453: Attack No. 1 : Fired four Mark 16 torpedoes. Position: 5 57 S 106 28 E Rnge:6800 yards. AOB 64. Depth set: 6 feet. Target speed: 24.5 knots. AIM:MOT, MOT, Aft, Forward. Torpedo number four (Mark 16) veered to starboard and went into circular run. Dropped scope and went to max depth available at 65 feet.

1454:Hard turn North to deeper waters. Circular run torpedo overhead. Unable to raise scope.

1457: All torpedoes missed.

1501-Three end of run explosions or torpedoes impacted the coast.

1502- Kamikaze Class DD heading towards Besugo.

1504-Attack No 2. Range 3000 AOB 0 Fired one Mark 27 Homing torpedo and two Mark 18 torpedoes. Minimum depth . POA: Bow .

1505-Two Mark 18's missed, possibly ran under keel. Fired third Mark 18.

1506-Torpedo impact. Mark 27 apparently tracked and impacted the DD aft amidships, forward of stern. This caused a large explosion(possibly torpedoes and ready ammo) DD turned away with large fire on the stern and developing a list to port by stern quickly.

1510-DD slowed. Stern is nearly submerged. Course 120 1.5 knots.

1512- Enemy CA last observed on course 120 zigging at high speed (estimated 20-22 knots)

1521-Radar depth. SJ contact on enemy CA bearing 120 10 NM range opening fast.

1524-As prepared to move in to administer coup de grace to damaged DD. SJ gained two new contacts at 220 7 NM closing fast. Possible ASW vessels responding to SOS from enemy CA/DD. Will open range and attack after night fall if possible.

1530-SD contact steady at 6 NM. Appears to be covering area of attack.

1540- Two more new SJ contacts 125 9 NM. Believe more ASW vessels responding, likely from Batavia.

1545- Second SD contact 9 NM steady...circling area.

1600-One PC type came within 5000 yards of Besugo. Dropped six depth charges before turning away.

1624-SJ has four likely ASW vessels in area and one aircraft circling damaged DD. Besugo is 6 NM away.

1630-Secured from General Quarters.

1800-SD contact 7 NM closing fast. Ordered 100 feet(bottom at 110 feet).

1810-Periscope depth/Radar depth. SD clear. SJ sweep contacts remaining hunting in area of Attack No. 1 and 2 with one vessel close to damaged DD which remains slowling heading towards Batavia.

1950-Surface.General Quarters. Closing last known DD position.

1951- SJ contact 000 11 NM. Believed to be damaged DD. Three more pips appear nearby, believed to be ASW escort vessels.

2008-Backing Besugo towards target from 9000 yards. Target appears stationary. One PC type 1200 yards off his starboard bow is stationary as well. Two others astern to port and starboard are patrolling slow at 6-7 knots.

2024- Attack No. 2 (Continued). Position: 5 57 S 106 29 E. Fired one Mark 18 torpedo. Range:3800 yds AOB: 91 Depth 5 feet. AIM: MOT(Middle of Target)

2028-Torpedo Impact. Large explosion. Kamikaze Class DD 1720 tons sunk 5 57 S 106 29 E. Enemy escorts began firing star shells, illuminating Besugo. One large PC type honed in on Besugo and gave chase. Radar emissions from this PC's bearing indicated her gunfire was radar guided as several shells landed close, one within 20 yards. However, as range quickly opened the gunfire grew less accurate and ceased, but pursuit by three PC types continued until just before midnight(2346) 6 June.

6 June

0830- 4'9 S 108 44 E . APR-1 detected radar emissions 265 degrees.

0831- SD contact 11 NM closing fast. Dive. Sounding:88 ft.

0905-Surface.

7 June-

1018- Contact Report Received from BLUEBACK. BLUEBACK reports enemy CA DD departed Batavia 1000 hours. Target likely to transit through Bangka Strait.

1020-Plot shows BESUGO unlikely to reach attack position south of Bangka Strait in time to intercept. Set course to intercept target at North end of Bangka Strait expected to contact enemy morning of 8 June.

1249 - SD contact 060 degrees. Position:2 41 S 109 18 E. Dive

1305- Surface.

0433- 125 S 105 40 E. As preparing to enter small gap in minefield off North Bangka coast, SJ contact 046 10 NM.

0500- Mid sized ship with radar equipped PC type , apparent course for Tik Kelebat Bay Northern Bangka. Did not attack as to not give away presence in area.

0530-Cleared minefield into Bangka Strait.

0715-SJ contact bearing 027 9 NM in Bangka Straits. Convoy of small coastal cargo boats with PC type escort. Evaded.

0804- SD contact 10 NM closing. 1 52 S 109 2 E. Dive.

0830-Surface.

1020-SD contact. 8 NM closing fast. Dive.

1030- Radar depth for SJ sweep.

1038-Sound contact: Fast, heavy screws in distance at 327 degrees.

1039-General Quarters

1047- SD contact 8 NM closing.

1053-APR-1 detecting radar emissions at 278 degrees. Likely enemy CA.

1100-SJ contact bearing 260 11 NM.

1137-Visual ID on Myoko Class CA and unknown DD. Believe same CA as the one missed in Attack No.1 on 5 June.

1140-CLosing target. Target is hugging Sumatran coastline (2400 yards) on course 345 estimated speed 14 knots.

1145-Attack No. 3: Fired two Mark 16, three Mark 14 torpedoes in tubes 1-5. Position:2'03 S 104 56 E (Bangka Straits North) Range:6050 yards AOB: 70 Torpedo Depth:5 feet. POA:MOT, MOT, MOT, Aft, Forward.

1149-Both mark 16's hit target amidships. Two large secondary explosions followed the impact 5 seconds after impact. Immense fireball visible. Fires burning along the superstructure and hull of target.

1150-Turning to evade DD. Enemy CA appears to be sinking on even keel.

1152-Myoko Class Heavy Cruiser (15870 tons) sunk at 2 04 S 104 53 E Northern Bangka Strait.

1156- Mark 14 torpedoes impacted Sumatran coast.

1243-Enemy Destroyer closed in but never came less than 3000 yards. Choppy seas helped mask Besugo in shallow waters. DD dropped several DC patterns.

1257 Sound contact: Warship 084 long range. Visually spotted smoke. Appears to be PC type responding to area.

1300-Multiple PC in area searching. DC explosions heard. Aircraft circled area. Moved a few thousand yards off Bangka coast NNE until dark. Moved out north of channel to surface.

1940-Surface .

2223- While exiting the minefield N of Bangka Island. Observed mine estimated 10-15 feet away. (boat dropped out of 512 time compression to 8 so figured something was up. Perhaps lucky)

2240-Set course for return to Area E4.

10 June-

0100-Sent status report.

0115-Received new orders from COMSUBSOWESPAC. Ordered to reconnoiter Bandar Seri Begawan, Borneo. Set course via Karimata Strait.

13 Jun-

0200-Attempted to infiltrate and reconnoiter harbor at Bandar Segi Berwan, Borneo. Two harbor tug boats, apparently converted to patrol craft were on patro to west and east, providing just a small gap in their coverage for Besugo to slip through. One was equipped with radar as APR-1 was picking up transmissions . A minefield previously unknown was observed, preventing entrance from the East along with the PC tug. Submerged infiltration not possible due to shallow depth and subnets. The plan was to slip into the anchorage, submerge to radar depth take photos at dawn then work way to subnet and surface to cross at high speed.

0231-Radar signals began to paint Besugo. One harbor tug type PC closed at high speed. Ordered guns manned to stand by for Battle Surface if required.

0234- Range 3400 yards AOB 15 speed 14. Depth 3. Fired Mark 27 homing torpedo, turned away at high speed.

0235-Just after firing torpedo. Spotlight of tug illuminated Besugo, and the tug opened fire with a suspected 3 inch gun forward as well as machine guns/autocannons.

All of Besugo's guns were ordered to open fire. At this time the angle essentially provided a broadside of fire from Besugo on the tug, which quickly began burning, her guns silenced. The 40 and 20 MM continued to rake the tug as we turned away. A solid five inch hit at waterline finished her off. Harbor tug boat PC (1000 tons) sunk at 5 06 N 115 04 E. Fortunately, Besugo suffered no damage in this brief but intense gun action.

0236-The other harbor type PC had managed to quickly close in on the scene as discovered he was closing from 2500 yards and opened fire on Besugo. Two splashes from her 3 inch gun forward landed within 20-30 yards of Besugo as she sped away. As suppressing fire, ordered all guns to fire during the turn. One , possibly two 5 inch round(s) appeared to hit the command deck/bridge area of the tug, which was set afire. Soon the the vessel slowed, her guns falling silent as well. Besugo's guns continued firing reducing the tug to a flaming wreck drifting astern.

0241-Massive explosion occurred on the tug, which quickly sunk. One harbor tug boat (patrol craft) estimated 1000 tons sunk at 5 05 N 115 03 E.

0242-Departed harbor, canceled reconnoiter mission. Will patrol along Area D4 along the Borneo coast for merchant traffic.

14 June22 -Patrolled along West coast of Borneo. No contacts.

22 June-

0600-Low on fuel, set course for Subic Bay.

24 June-

0700-Arrived Subic Bay.

PATROL RESULTS:

Ships Sunk:4

6/8/45:Myoko Class Heavy Cruiser 15870 tons. Cause: MK 16 torpedoes x 2 hits.

6/5/45:Kamikaze Class Destroyer 1720 tons. Cause: Mark 27 torpedo hit disabled target, MK 18x1 sunk target in follow up attack several hours later.

6/13/45: Tug Boat (Patrol Craft) 1000 tons. Cause: Gunfire-5 inch

6/13/45:Tug Boat (Patrol Craft) 1000 tons. Gunfire-5 inch, 40 and 20 MM.

Number of Torpedo Attacks: 4

Number of gun actions:1

Torpedoes Expended:14 Mark 16 x5 Mark 14x 3 Mark 27 x 2 Mark 18 x 4
5 inch ammunition expended:31 rounds
40 MM ammunition expended:271 rounds
20MM ammunition expended:629 rounds.

Aircraft observed: None visually. Multiple SD contacts (See narrative)

Depth Charges Received: Unknown number, none close.(See narrative)

Days submerged:1

Damage to Submarine :None

Casualties: None

Deciding Factor in patrol termination: Low fuel state after extended distances traveled for special mission and high speed runs required in intercepting warships.

Comments: Short but busy patrol. New Mark 27 torpedo fired on 6/5 prevented a serious counter attack by the on rushing DD in shallow waters, likely saving Besugo from serious damage or worse. Only a high priority target would warrant such risks.

New MK 16 torpedo performance excellent, sans the circular run on 5 June.

Enemy air patrols throughout the region remain steady and a consistent threat to operations, especially in shallow waters.

Note: This simulated action is based on a real incident, referred to as "The Action of 8 June 1945". However, it was a British T-Class submarine (HMS Trenchant) which sunk the Ashigara (Myoko Class) in Bangka Straits on 8 June 1945. Many consider it one of the finest submarine torpedo shots of the war as it was from long range due to the shallow waters and minefield.US submarine Blueback, acting on an ULTRA, did attempt to attack but was never able to as Ashigara and her escorting DD( Kamikaze) proved elusive targets but passed on two contact reports which permitted the Trenchant to get into position for her famous attack. As part of my my upgrade to TMO, I placed this historical ship movement in the campaign as well as added minefields to the appropriate areas.

Visual Confirmation:

https://i.postimg.cc/fVkF2bht/Ashigara-Hit.png (https://postimg.cc/fVkF2bht)

https://i.postimg.cc/9DSkvjWx/Ashigarasunk1.png (https://postimg.cc/9DSkvjWx)

https://i.postimg.cc/hz83zzVw/DDhit1.png (https://postimg.cc/hz83zzVw)

https://i.postimg.cc/5YWR2qQL/DDHit3.png (https://postimg.cc/5YWR2qQL)

.

Bubblehead1980

06-21-21, 05:31 PM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
100 realism
contacts off, cams on (for testing purposes)

USS Besugo SS-321
7th War Patrol
5 July-6 August 1945

Complement:72 Officers and men
Torpedoes:24 MK 16 x 6 MK 14x 6 MK 18 x 10 MK 27 x 2

Departed Subic Bay, Philippines at 0900 and set course for area D1- Gulf of Siam.

Arrived in patrol area on evening of 9 July. Intelligence reports indicate what little merchant shipping Japan has left transits the costal waters. Patrol routine was to skirt the shallow areas off shore in waters deep enough to submerge in case need to dive for aircraft or other reasons and at night to make high speed sweeps along the coast.

10 July- Patrolling a pocket of "deep"(150 feet ) water just 6 miles off Thai coast in western Gulf of Siam, SJ made a lone contact. Target was a 800 ton PC type.

0921-Fired a MK 27 homing torpedo from stern tube (#10). Torpedo failed to track properly and missed.

11 July- 0500 SJ made contact on three ships. Identified as small coastal cargo boats and a daihatsu landing barge,just 6000 yards off coast. Manned guns for battle surface. Approached convoy the rear just as dawn began to break, opening fire at 0621 from 1500 yards on the daihatsu, which quickly exploded under a barrage of gunfire.

The small coastal cargo boats armed with machine guns opened fire on Besugo scoring no hits. Besugo's 5 inch 40 and 20 MM guns quickly dispatched the two small boats, both of which exploded as were likely carrying ammunition and/or fuel.

1740- While transiting east across Gulf of Siam, encountered nine fishing type boats/sampans on course 090. Approached to investigate. These boats were armed with auto-cannons and machine guns and opened fire. With guns manned, Besugo swept from rear of convoy to attack. In a two hour gun action, sunk all nine vessels in vicinity of 8 04 N 102 48 E. Several MG/AC rounds scored hits on Besugo but no damage or casualties occurred.

14 July-

1012-Fired MK 18 torpedo at an Auxillary Subchaser, torpedo missed. While at 100(bottom is 110 feet) feet and moving away bombed by an aircraft. The SC arrived in area pining but did not locate Besugo thanks to heavy seas and thermocline.

16 July-

Sunk four junks by gunfire off Cau Mau Peninsula 9 07 N 104 10 E.

17 July-

1802- SJ contact on a convoy. Three ships with six escorts. Shadowed until nightfall then moved in for night surface attack in shallow waters off Indochina coast.

2247-The screen was effective in preventing Besugo from getting into usual range of 2500 yards for firing. Targeted large freighter and mid sized freighter. Fired three MK 16 at large freighter and one at mid sized freighter from 5100 yards AOB 65.

2150-Three torpedo impacts on large freighter. Large explosions.

2151-One torpedo impact in smaller freighter.

2156- Targets believed to be HAKUSIKA MARU 8378 tons and BIYO MARU 5498 tons both sunk. 9 42 N 103 41 E

2323-Reloading bow tubes completed. SJ revealed gap in screen as one stayed behind to search area. Will attempt exploit this for an attack on large remaining freighter.

2327-APR-1 detecting radar emissions from bearing of lead escort (Mikura Class Escort Vessel)

Throughout night attempted to work into position to attack the last ship but due to effective screening and shallow depths, unable to gain position. As had to depart shallow areas to reach deeper waters by dawn, broke off attack at 0400.

20 July-

0010-ULTRA received reporting a convoy would depart Bangkok for Cape St Jacques at 0600.

0700-Besugo into position along likely route of convoy off indochina coast to make contact around noon.

1400-Besugo made SJ contact. Convoy appears ot be four large shuips in middle with 9 escorts in encircling the body of convoy. Shadowed convoy until nightfall.

2100-With moon on the starboard side of convoy, raced ahead to attack from the port side to avoid Besugo being silhouetted by the moonlight.

2101-2150-Convoy formation made difficult to get in for proper shot. Four merchants are in one single column about 1800 yards apart with nine escort type vessels encircling them at about 3000 yards. In a peculiar manner, two escorts are forming an inside screen on the flanks of the merchants, preventing a clear and close shot.

2155-Fired two Mark 16's from 4100 yards at WATANABE MARU 3800 tons.

2157-Both torpedoes impacted, freighter exploded. Quickly moved to avoid a Type D escort closing in on Besugo.

2210-With convoy somewhat scattered as three escorts remaining hunting for Besugo at scene or prior attack, worked way inside the screen and targeted a SAKITO MARU 8950 ton troopship. Target was zigging so close range shot would be required.

2234-A Type A Shimiushu Class Escort (lead escort which had lagged behind after first attack) increased to high speed to get back in front of the merchants, escort would soon be within 3000 yards.

2241-Fired four Mark 14 torpedoes at SAKITO MARU from 2100 yards.

2242-Three torpedoes hit the troopship, which slowed, and listed heavily, afire amidships. Besugo was already racing away, avoiding ships to get the deeper waters. A radar equipped Minesweeper Type escort began chasing Besugo from 4000 yards, several shells landed in wake. Soon ceased fire but continued pursuit.

2248-Avoided a large freighter and escort nearby, continued to slip out. A SEITO MARU class tanker was observed. Set up to bring stern tubes to attack but tanker spotted Besugo at 2300 yards and illuminated with spotlight, opening fire. Besugo turned west to exit the convoy and into deeper waters, under fire. Gunfire ceased but spotlight maintained lock on Besugo, apparently guiding escorts from astern, port, starboard, and most disturbingly, ahead.

2250-Best option was to try and slip past the escort closing from ahead. In case of emergency and since unable to dive in such shallow waters, ordered 5 inch, 40 and 20 MM guns manned, would as a last resort, fight out way out as the one escort was the. All bow torpedo tubes were emptied and could not be reloaded in time for a down the throat shot.

2251-APR-1 detected radar signals from ahead, this escort had Besugo locked.Realizing would not be able to slip past him, turned to present a zero angle on the bow to escort to provide narrow target at 3000 yards, Besugo closing at 21 knots.

2253-Escort illuminated Besugo with spotlight and opened fire. Ordered 5 inch and 40 MM guns to open fire. As range crew close the escort's main guns appeared unable to hit the Besugo due to close range, while some of her auto cannon/machine guns did score hits. Besugo's 5 inch gun scored 6 solid hits and numerous 40 and 20 mm hits. The escort caught fire amidships and in the game of "chicken" flinched first turning slightly to port. Besugo slid alongside at less than estimated 10-12 feet. The 20 MM gun raking the deck. Racing away the escort did not fire and slowed, unsure of the vessels fate.

With the escort eliminated, Besugo was free of the trap. The other escorts opened with with shells landing in vicinity but in the darkness lost contact. One radar equipped DE type continued pursuit for 20 minutes, then turned back.

0100-Now in deeper waters, maintaining intermittent SJ contact, torpedoes were reloaded.

0200-Regained SJ contact. Seeing a chance for one more attack before dawn, moved in, dodging escorts and a night patrol plane.

0251-SEITO MARU tanker 6500 tons was in crosshairs of aft TBT. Fired 3 MK 18 torpedoes from 3000 yards. All three hit, setting off the (apparently) fuel loaded tanker in a massive fireball and explosions. Escort at 2700 yards immediately opened fire as Besugo was now visible thanks to the star shells and light of explosion in addition to the light fog had lifted, giving the half moon lit night better visibility.

0321-Escort lost contact. Besugo set course to West then SW to clear convoy and shallows by dawn.

23 July- Sunk several armed fishing boats in gun action

24 July- Sunk small coastal cargo vessels in gun action off approached to Bangkok.

25 July-29 July-
Foul weather enveloped area.

29 July- Bombed by aircraft off Cau Mau Peninsula, minor damage.

30 July-

0821- While on patrol 5 NM off coast in Western Gulf of Siam..SJ made contact on a convoy at 11 NM. with 200 feet of water in this deep "patch" and choppy seas, opted for submerged attack. Convoy was two ships with 6-7 escorts of PC type, one Hatsutaka Minelayer was observed guarding convoys rear.

0851-Prepared to fire remaining four Mark 18 torpedoes in forward torpedo room at a large and mid sized freighter. Suddenly, pinging began. A small auxiliary PC type escort previously unobserved had closed in and was 1200 yards in Besugo's baffles. Convoy alerted slowed and ruined the set up. However, the lead freighter (BIYO MARU) was just 2000 yards. Quick plot assumed 5.5 knots zigging. Set up and fired two Mark 18's from tubes 1 and 3. After firing, ordered dive to 200 feet at flank speed, with a turn to the south. SBT-1 decoys deployed at 75 100 and 150 feet.

0853-Two torpedo impacts heard. Believe hit the lead freighter.

0854- As passed 190 feet, four depth charges (presumably from the small PC) exploded above the Besugo. No damage.

Multiple escorts closed pinging. The combination of depth charge explosions, choppy seas, thermocline located at 192 feet seemed to help besugo escape.

0908-A PC seemed to locate Besugo and came overhead, dropping 5 depth charges. Two exploded somewhat close with small leaks in pipign and air lines in conning tower and control room. after batteries took minor damage.

This PC made 3 more runs. SBT-1 decoy seemed to through her off Besugo's trail .

0918-Another PC closed in, this was presumed to be the minelayer as it passed overhead at high speed and let loose a pattern of charges. Sound of Y or K guns was heard firing. The first pattern of charges was close, badly shaking the boat and causing minor damage.

0924-0950-Two more runs were made with no damage. MS seemed to lose contact after deploying of decoy and a high speed run but it once again located Besugo and laid a pattern of charges.

0952-Charges exploded close to Besugo, damage reported. Minor flooding in control room and crew berthing, trim and hydraulic pumps damaged, batteries damaged. Continued high speed evasive movements and deployed two more decoys.

Several more runs were made by the escorts but none as close. By 1300 all was quiet. At 1400-came to periscope depth. Nothing in sighted. At radar depth, SJ sweep had one contact. Surfaced and closed to find the BIYO MARU torpedoed earlier dead in the water. Closed to finish off with deck gun, thinking it odd the ship was left there without a guard. However, a patrol could be en route so moved quickly.

Soon after SV had a contact. Aircraft observed in distance, forced to dive and move in submerged. The plane was circling the stricken freighter, which was listing to starboard and dead in water but afloat. Went to 125 feet and closed on the BIYO MARU.

1531-Came to periscope depth at 5000 yards. No aircraft detected. Scope down and depth 90 feet until reached estimated position 3000 yards off target.

1548-At periscope depth, prepared to fire when observed a large flying boat above the target, turning fast towards Besugo. Quickly fired remaining two MK 18 torpedoes from forward tubes, and ordered a dive. As passed 100 feet, two explosions occurred near Besugo's stern, no damage reported.

1550-Two torpedoes impacted. Sounds of ship breaking up. BIYO MARU sunk at 1554.

Heading south at 190 feet, several more explosions went off but not close. The plane was likely MAD equipped and following Besugo. At 1651 sounds of fast screws approaching were heard, seems a coastal patrol was called in. Evaded the vessels on silent running. Plane apparently lost contact as well.

1940-Surfaced into dusk skies. Three torpedoes left in stern tubes.2 Mark 18 one MK 27.

31 July-

0901- Encountered 8 fishing boats, all armed. These boats opened fire. In a running gun battle, sunk all boats. Exhausted 20 MM ammo aboard.

31 July-2321-Off Cau Mau Peninsula, SJ contacted a small convoy of two ships with 7 PC escorts. Night was very dark with no moon. However, the screen was such it made gaining a proper firing position difficult.

1 August-

0024-Set up on SEIA MARU 7200 tons from 3300 yards for MK 18's and on a gunboat type escort (ATAMI) with MK 27 from 2200 yards. Due to speed differential and range would fire MK 27 first.

0030-Fired MK 27 at gunboat.

0031-Fired MK 18(two) at SEIA MARU.

0033-Gunboats course and speed change caused one MK 18 (set shallow) to hit him, the gunboat was obliterated.

0034-MK 18 hit the SEIA MARU setting it afire after two large explosions.

Turned away at high speed undetected in the darkness, although the lead escort appeared to have Besugo on radar for a time as it pursued.Out of torpedoes, Besugo set course to depart area.

0039-the MK 27 apparently impacted an unknown vessel. Results unknown.

6 August-Arrived Subic Bay.

(After docking, received news the war had ended with the cut screens and video, which I do not recall seeing before.)

Probably one of my favorite careers ever in SH 4. Seven war patrols between September 1944 and August 1945.

Few screen shots:

https://i.postimg.cc/3dzqx6mw/Besugoracing1.png (https://postimg.cc/3dzqx6mw)

https://i.postimg.cc/Ff4njLP5/Besugoracing2.png (https://postimg.cc/Ff4njLP5)

https://i.postimg.cc/vgPqFSGb/Beusgosurface3.png (https://postimg.cc/vgPqFSGb)

https://i.postimg.cc/p9JckL79/bridgenight1.png (https://postimg.cc/p9JckL79)

https://i.postimg.cc/R6CsYz5g/tanker1.png (https://postimg.cc/R6CsYz5g)

Kal_Maximus_U669

06-23-21, 06:33 PM

http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/25/4/1624490953-01.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/25/4/1624490961-02.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/25/4/1624490976-05.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/25/4/1624490986-04.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/25/4/1624491017-03.png

Bubblehead1980

06-23-21, 07:31 PM

Bubblehead1980

06-23-21, 09:51 PM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods.
100 difficulty, cams off, contacts on.

USS Drum SS-228 First War Patrol
Area 4-Tokyo Bay area.
17 April-6 June 1942

Departed San Francisco for Pearl Harbor on 1 April arriving 10 April.

17 April-

0900-Departed Pearl Harbor for patrol Area 4- Tokyo Bay area, via Midway.

18-20 April-Conducted dive, gunnery, and emergency drills en route Midway. Dive time down to 41 seconds.

21 April-

0756-1130-Fueled at Midway.

30 April-

1823-33 30 N 142 0 E. SD contact 6 NM closing fast. Submerged to 100 feet. Remained submerged until night fall.

1 May-

0030-136 NM SSE of Tokyo, entered patrol Area 4.

1034-SD contacted 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1400-Surface.

2 May-

0930-Dive for submerged patrol.

1446-63 (estimated) NM S of Tokyo, sound contact bearing 018 long range.

1454-Visual contact with mid sized freighter on estimated course/speed 090 9 knots.

1455-General Quarters.

1524-Target zigged forcing long range shot.

1526-Attack No. 1: Fired two MK 14 torpedoes Range:3334 yards AOB 101 Torpedo Depth: 10 ft Point of Aim(POA): Middle of Target (MOT)

1527-Large explosion. Possible torpedo detonation, premature.

1528- second torpedo missed. Target zigging.

1550-Attack No. 1 (continued) Fired 1 MK 14 1300 yards AOB: 115 Depth:6 ft Target evaded by just a few yards to port. Aircraft on scene, DRUM went to 300 ft.

2313-Surfaced for end around. While conducting end around, target zigged towards DRUM at dusk. DRUM submerged turned to course 230 to intercept.

2344-Attack No. 1 (continued) Fired two Mk 14 torpedoes. Range 800 yards AOB 75 depth 10 feet. Target zigging on course 030 5.5 knots.

Both torpedoes impacted target amidships. Target slowed, then stopped. Visibility limited due to night fall.

2351-AKITA MARU 3939 tons sunk at 34 39 N 140 17 E.

2352-Surface. Secure GQ.

3 May-

1108-Submerged for day due to numerous patrol planes.

4 May-

0452-0456-Sunk two armed fishing boats by gunfire. Estimated 200 tons each. Position 34 34 N 139 41 E.

0818-Spotted KASAGISAN MARU 2427 ton freighter. Went to General Quarters.

0909-Attack No. 2: Fired two Mk 14 torpedoes from stern tubes. Range:1090 yards AOB 80 depth 6 ft. POA:MOT.

Torpedo 1 veered to port and entered circular run. Ordered emergency depth to 100 feet, firing second torpedo as DRUM descended.

Torpedo 2 launched and assumed correct course. However, in an odd occurrence, torpedo 1 was completing its loop and collided with torpedo 2. Even more astounding, they torpedoes did not detonate. Torpedo 1 was knocked off course to starboard by torpedo 1, likely damaging the gyro, which failed to reset. Torpedo 1 completed its circle and exploded roughly directly over DRUM. DRUM was shake but no damage.

Torpedo 2 missed astern of the target(judging by sound). End of run explosion heard minutes later.

0913-Poor firing angle preventing firing another torpedo.

0914-Considering small size of freighter, that it appeared unarmed, opted to surface and engage with deck gun. From 3000 yards ship responded to DRUM with machine gun and auto cannon fire, none of which impacted.

DRUM's gun however scored 21 hits with 3 inch gun. Vessel was left afire and drifting. Crew abandoned ship, KASAGISAN MARU 2427 tons sunk at 34 42 N 140 02 E.

0931-Smoke sighted 031 degrees. Pursuit course frank speed for intercept.

0936-Sighted PC type vessel in distance bearing 154 6 NM. Likely heading to sinking scene of the maru.

1024-SD contact 11 NM. Steady range, not closing.

1029-SD contact suddenly began closing DRUM. Aircraft observed like patrol plane, H6K MAVIS. Drum submerged to 150 feet.

1031-Series of explosions presumed from bombs from aircraft.

Aircraft contacts prevented DRUM from closing on target for rest of day. At 1800 lost sound contact.

2330-Surface.

7 May-

0430-Entered Suruga Bay on surface.

0600-Submerged in Suruga Bay.

1200-Sound and visual contact made near simultaneously on KANAGA MARU class freighter. Course 015 9 knots. DRUM closed from long range at 90 feet and 6 knots.

1303-Attack No. 3: Fired two MK 14 torpedoes. Range 1000 AOB: 85(S) Depth: T1-26 feet for keel shot T2:15 feet Torpedo 1 was observed passing directly under target. Torpedo 2 prematurely detonated.

1304-Fired another MK 14 torpedo. Range: 800 yards AOB:60 Depth:10 ft POA:MOT. Torpedo impacted amidships. Target took on small starboard list with small fired on the stern but not sinking. Due to close range, moved along side to turn and set up for coupe de grace with stern tubes.

1306-Sound reports warship closing fast from bearing 310. No visual on contact, likely coming to aid of the maru.

1316-Spotted Chidori class torpedo boat at 4000 yards bearing 340 closing fast.

1317-Attack No. 3 (continued) Fired one Mark 14 range 800 AOB 60 depth 7 ft. Torpedo hit as aimed.

1319- KANAGA MARU 4923 tons sunk at 34 39 N 138 36 E in Suruga Bay.

1320-Chidori closing fast from 2000 yards. Ordered DRUM to 300 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge. DRUM turned into to prevent narrow sonar profile.

1322-Pinging began. Depth charges dropped over next 18 minutes.

1340-A depth charge detonated very close to DRUM estimated at or just above DRUM's depth to port of amidships area. Leaks in piping and pressure lines. Damage reported to pumps and batteries, mother minor damage reported.

1342-DRUM drifted to 325 feet, likely due to heavy trim pump damage as precise depth control grew difficult.

1345-1415- Chidori continued searching but no charges came that close again.

By 1420-At least four other warship contacts arrived in area hunting DRUM . Including (judging by sound) one destroyer, others likely patrol craft) .

Over next five hours, over 200 depth charges were dropped. Trim pump now functioning properly. DRUM was forced to 375 feet to get under the patterns.

Various amounts of damage throughout boat, none serious.

2050-Only two sound contacts, believe others are "sleeping" listening for DRUM .

2100-Batteries down to 10 percent. This is due to the high speed runs required during attack and evasion, as well as damage suffered.

2330-Periscope depth. All clear, DRUM surfaced into dark night and to recharge batteries.

8 May-Submerged North end Suruga Bay.

1215-Attempted to close freighter crossing bay for Shizouka, but unable to close before reached port.

1300-While at periscope depth, a single engine float plane was spotted diving for DRUM/ Ordered emergency depth 200 feet.

1301-As DRUM passed 105 feet, three large explosions were noted, but not close.

1321-Sound has two contacts closing from west and south. Likely PC's responding to planes report. Took DRUM to 300 feet, silent running. Spent rest of day dodging patrol craft.

2330-Surfaced South-East end Suruga Bay. Exited bay and set course of Sagami Wan.

9 May-No contacts.

10 May-

0421-34 44 N 139 13 E 11 NM west of Oshima Island, spotted unknown destroyer. Bearing 035 4000 yards high speed. DRUM turned hard to port to present stern and evade. DD did not spot DRUM as continued on.

0900-Dive

1001-Spotted two large fishing boats 6000 yards vis periscope.

1031-Sound reported lone warship contact long range approaching from SW. Visual shows thing masts likely of DD.

1044-Sound reported heavy screws at bearing 345. Masters and superstructure of large warships visible bearing 345. Likely CA or CL.

1045-General Quarters.

1048-Two AOBA Class Heavy Cruisers parallel of one another heading SSW out of Tokyo Bay, no escort visible.

1051-As working into position, the DD sound reported earlier was arriving on scene and would cross just astern of DRUM .

1053-DD began pinging but did not close DRUM. CA's began zigging at 14 knots.

1107-Attack No. 4. Fired three MK 14 torpedoes. Range 1200 yards AOB 70 POA MOT. Two premature detonations. Target turned away to port from the third torpedo, taking the torpedoes course. Torpedo ran along the starboard side of the cruiser and detonated roughly adjacent to the amidships area as magnetic detonator was set off by the nearby cruiser. The cruiser momentarily slowed, but soon sped up and turned to the north. Possible some damage was caused, however the full effect of the explosion was not absorbed by the cruiser.

1108-DRUM to 300 feet, silent running, rigged for depth charge. The DD made several runs but no charges were close. Two other DD's arrived in area within twenty minutes but did not contact DRUM. Spent rest of day evaded aircraft of patrols.

2330-Surface.

11 May-

0300-Receoved communique from COMBSUBPAC regarding enemy CV damaged(WOUNDED BEAR) in Coral Sea engagement likely destined to return home islands in coming week. DRUM set course to take up position off Kii Suido in Area 6.

14 May-Sunk three fishing boats by gunfire at 32 50 N 134 41 E. Fishing armed and opened fire.

16 May-

1523-Based on contact report from TRITON and other intelligence, believed WOUNDED BEAR destination is Bungo Suido. DRUM set course for position in the approaches.

1000-Off Bungo Suido. Submerged.

1900-Notcied sudden increase in air activity in area, possibly indicating approach of carrier.

2015-Sound detected fast, heavy props at long range. Surfaced DRUM and made high speed run to intercept.

2045-Single engine dive bomber... likely D3A VAL closed DRUM from 9500 yards. Lookouts spotted the aircraft, SD failed to detect. DRUM made emergency dive. As DRUM passed 85 feet, two explosions shook boat, no damage reported.

2110-Surface.

2111-32 42 N 132 13 E. Off Bungo Suido visually spotted a CV at long range on course 014 est speed 17 knots. Went to General Quarters and closed.

2130-A DD was observed racing towards DRUM at high speed. DD opened from from long range. DRUM forced to dive as shell splashes were close, in spite of range.

2146-300 feet. Two destroyers made numerous depth charge attacks. While never seemed to establish strong contact, continued to hunt DRUM.

2231-Sound contact lost with enemy carrier as it entered Bungo Suido.

Over next 19(!) hours the enemy destroyers hunted DRUM. Staying within 2000-8000 yards.

Finally losing contact on 18 May.

18 May-

2330-Surfaced. Disappointed was unable to close the carrier, set course returned to Area 4 off Tokyo.

21 May-

1639-Spotted enemy DD departing Tokyo Bay on ideal track for an attack. Went to General Quarters and began to approach.

1645-Target changed course, causing a longer range shot.

1650-Attack No. 5-Fired two MK 14 torpedoes set to 3 ft . Range 3900 yards AOB 70 MOT.

1651-Both torpedoes prematurely detonated. DD alerted. DRUM went deep. DD did not locate DRUM, but dropped a few charges in the area before departing.

22 May-

0327-Sunk two armed fishing boats by gunfire at 34 30 N 139 44 E.

1230-Smoke on horizon bearing 154 degrees. Multiple plumes, presumed convoy. Course 090 to intercept.

1240-General Quarters.

1250-Convoy 050 speed 9 knots. Likely destination is Tokyo Bay., Made high speed run at depth of 200 feet to close.

1310-Convoy consisted of four ships in single column escort by single Shiratsuyu Destroyer 1000 yards ahead. Convoy composition was: One medium AK, one large AP, one large AK, one medium AK.

1321-Attack No. 5: Fired three Mark 14 torpedoes at large AP .Range 1000 yards AOB 90 depth 10 feet. POA:MOT. All three torpedoes hit target as aimed. Vessel quickly took a stern list with a fire amidships.

1322-KITURIN MARU troopship(6783 tons) quickly sunk at 34 47 N 139 43 E. No survivors visible.

1323-DD closing fast. DRUM went to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running, turned into the DD to minimize sonar profile.

1327-1900-DRUM at 350 feet. DD hunting. Multiple charges dropped, few close shook boat, but no serious damage.

2000-Lost contact with DD.

2300-Attempted to surface by SD contact forced DRUM to dive again.

23 May-

0000-Surface.

24 May-

0921- Sunk 200 ton fishing boat by gunfire at 33 10 N 140 46 E. Armed boat hit DRUM with MG/AC fire, no injuries or damage.

1000-Submerged for day patrol.

1511-Smoke on horizon bearing 016. SD sweep. Surfaced to close distance.

1515-Two plumes smoke spotted. General Quarters.

1521-SD contact 6 NM. DRUM submerged, closed contacts at 100 feet and high speed.

1540-Periscope depth. Two large merchants, unescorted on course 340 9 knots. With just two torpedoes left, both in stern tubes. Decided to cross the track and shoot the lead with torpedoes, attack remaining freighter with deck gun if possible.

1545-Aircraft spotted. Took DRUM to 100 feet.

1550-Back at periscope depth. Targets both resemble KIGAN MARU 7390 tons.

1556-Attack No. 6: Fired two MK 14 torpedoes. Range: 900 yards AOB 90 depth 28/20 feet. Torpedo 1 detonated just after arming at 350 yards. Torpedo 2 observed running under the target but failed to exploded.

1557-Close range revealed both ships mounted large guns fore and aft. With ideal visual conditions and aircraft presence in area, not advisable to make deck gun attack. Turned away, observing the ships, which split up heading in different directions.

1600-G4M "Betty" bombers flying low over water appeared suddenly. DRUM went to 150 feet. No explosions.

2330-Surface.Torpedoes expended, set course for Pearl Harbor via Midway.

28 and 29 May, submerged to avoid SD contacts, likely from Wake Island.

2 June-

Fueled at Midway. Departed at 1300

3 June

0600-Morning trim dive. As Drum settled at 100 feet, a submerged enemy submarine was audible at bearing 095. Sounds of torpedoes in water heard as well. DRUM apparently narrowly missed disaster. Went to 300 feet at silent running. Maintained submerged transit for day.

2300-After careful sweep. Surfaced.

4 June-

Throughout day received various radio traffic regarding fleet engagement off Midway Island.

6 June-

0915-Arrived Pearl Harbor. Terminated patrol.

Kal_Maximus_U669

06-26-21, 06:10 AM

Beautiful shots!
Hy Bubblehead1980 :Kaleun_Cheers:
Thank you for your compliments coming from you ... I really appreciate ... good continuation in your reports which are very good and can help some here .... Kind regards KM_U669 :salute::up:

Bubblehead1980

06-27-21, 02:23 PM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
100 difficulty. Cams and contacts off

USS Drum SS-228
War Patrol Two

During refit at Pearl Harbor after first war patrol, an SJ Surface search radar installed. Aft end of conning tower was cut down to and periscope shear plating removed to reduce surface silhouette .

10 July-

0900-Depart Pearl Harbor for patrol in Carolines-Bismark Archipelago shipping lane. Tuning of SJ radar.

1220-Trim Dive.

1240-Surface.

1400-1800-Diving, Gunnery, Emergency drills.

12 July-

1200-Ordered by COMSUBPAC to investigate reports of enemy vessel run aground off Rongelap Atoll, Marshall Islands.

16 July- Increased speed to to 15.5 knots to arrive Rongelap 18 July.

18 July-

1300-Off Rongelap, no ground vessel spotted.

22 July-

2057-10 10 N 151 0 E 180 NM NNW of Truk. SD contact 11 NM closing, slowly.

2100-SD contact 8 NM. DRUM submerged.

2214-Surface.

23 July-

1000-Submerged 100 NM NE of Truk Atoll.

Multiple aircraft spotted through day.

2200-Surface.

24 July

East of Truk-Piannu Pass.

0237-SJ contact. 348 9 NM. 7 24 N 150 49 E 40 NM E of Pianunu Pass. Possible ship(s) heading for Truk. Set course ot overtake before arrive at the pass likely by dawn.

0300-Multiple contacts. Likely convoy.

0310-General Quarters.

0338-Decided to go for submerged night attack as nearly a full moon out. Convoy would reach Truk before dawn so it was, now or never.

0414-Leading vessel identified as DD.

0415-DRUM submerged to 80 feet.

0426- DD leading two mid sized AK. Course 088- Speed 9 knots.

0448-Attack No. 1: Fired three MK 14 torpedoes. Range:1200 yards AOB 90 POA:MOT.

0449-Two torpedoes impacted target but failed to detonate. Third torpedo impacted bow area of target which, alerted was turning to starboard away from DRUM.

0456- Trailing the ship. Fired one Mk 18 Range: 600 AOB 180 (up the kilts shot) on target. Torpedo hit stern, setting off a large explosion and secondary explosions. Vessel quickly took a down angle by stern while burning.

0457-MADRAS MARU -3822 tons sunk 7 19 N 151 14 E. 30 NM E of Piannu Pass (Truk).

0500-No visual or sound on other two contacts

0504-Radar depth for SJ sweep.

0506-Merchant spotted moving away at est. 8 knots 4000 yards.

0509-DD spotted 010 2050 yards. Believe is "sleeping" listening. Moving for shot.

0512- Attack No. 2 Rng 2200 AOB 155 AIM aft starboard. Torpedo 1 prematurely detonated just after arming (Traveled 350 yards)
Fired torpedo 2.

0514-DD suddenly got underway spotted torpedo, torpedo missed. Expected depth charges, none came.

0600-Surfaced. Secure GQ reload torpedoes.

0717-SJ contact 330 9 NM.

0736-Two contacts possible an escort with merchant heading 180 speed 9 knots.Tracking for dawn scope attack convoy does not appear heading Truk just transiting area.

0857-Dawn. Smoke plumes from ships spotted 105 degrees 7 NM. Crossing track for stern shot, using rising sun in east as light for periscope.

0902-DRUM submerged.

0917-Convoy appears to be mid sized AK with PC or DE type escort. Both producing smoke.

0938-Escort is Shimushu Type A Escort Vessel

0938-Freighter appears to be AKITA MARU class, similar to one sunk on Drums first patrol in May.

0943- Target course 180 speed 8 knots. Escort 1000 yards ahead of target.

0951-Open out doors on stern tubes.

0959 - Attack No 3: Range:1150 AOB:80 Torpedo Depth:10 ft POA: middle . Torpedo 1 prematurely exploded just after arming. Torpedo 2 impacted amidships.

1001:Drum ordered to 300 feet. Rig for depth charge and silent running. Escort closing fast with 0 AOB.

1004-Pinging. Escort closing

1005-Escort to short scale pings. Closing fast. Overhead. Drum ahead flank to depth 350.

1006-splashes. explosions...believe depth charge launcher going off.

1007-DC explosions. Some close. Boat shaken. no damage

1009-Pinging.

1011-Splashes astern.

1016-More distant splashes. Escort searching, pinging.

1018-Short scale pinging. Escort acquired DRUM.Closing fast.

1020-DC explosions overhead.

1023-Pinging

1025-Enemy overhead.

1027-Explosions.

1150-Escort appears to have lost contact with DRUM. Lost contact with botb vessels. One AKITA MARU class damaged by one torpedo hit.

26 July-

Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes. Heading for position East of Admiralty Islands.

28 July-

1750-SJ contact bearing 335 9 NM. 1 18 S 148 25 E. Course 155 to intercept.

1809-Smoke whisps spotted 060. 7 NM. Light fog/haze hampered visiblity.

1844-Two vessels in single column roughly 2000 yards apart. Believe both to be merchant vessels. Course 150 speed 9 knots.

1915-Drum submerged.

1926-Sound contact 352 closing.

1927-Visual contact on two freighters est. range five NM. Light fog haze remains present.

1936-Lead freighter is mid sized, similar to KANAGA MARU 4923 tons sunk on last patrol. Rear freighter is larger. Will target rear freighter first.

1947-Rear freighter is of KIGAN MARU class. 7390 tons. Encountered this class last patrol in final attack, but did not sink due to torpedo difficulties.

1950-Target course 150 8 knots.

2002-Prepared to fire, found target track changed slightly to starboard leaving DRUM 1300 yards instead of 1000 yards from firing point. Dropped scope and ordered ahead flank for speed burst to gain proper position.

2004-Attack No 4: Fired three MK 14 torpedoes. 800 yards AOB 90 Depth 10 ft. POA: MOT, Fore Mast, Aft Mast.

Torpedo one impacted but failed to detonate. Torpedoes 2 and 3 hit. Target afire around island structure from waterline.

2006-Fired fourth torpedo. Range 700 AOB 100. missed Fired fifth torpedo range 600 AOB 180 "up the kilts" shot. Torpedo impact. stern on fire.

2017-Fired sixth torpedo. Range 600 yard AOB 180 . Torpedo impact set off large secondary explosions and fires. Vessel quickly took down angle by stern.

2018-KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk at 1 39 S 148 29 E.

2022-KANAGA MARU is on course 140 8-10 knots. Waiting for to open range, will surface for end around. Secured General Quarters.

2140-Surface. 6 NM astern of KANAGA MARU. End round started.

2200-Lost SJ contact. Back track course to regain contact.

0106-Restablished SJ contact at 340. 2'0 S 148 50 E. Will trail until dawn for submerged attack.

0433-Lost SJ contact suddenly.

0440-Regained SJ contact. Sea conditions have increased to heavy.

0530-Lost SJ contact.

31 July-

Patrolling approaches N of Kavieng, New Irleand.

2 August-

1030-Surbmerged for day patrol between New Hanover Island and St Mathias Islands. 2'0 S 150'0 E

3 August-

0855-SJ contact 287 degrees 9 NM. 1 40 S 148 10 E.

0907-Large merchant spotted in morning haze bearing 355. Estimated course 075 7 knots. General Quarters

1000-Contact changed course to 60 SSE.

1012-Dive.

1058-Target is NAGARA MARU class freighter. 7145 tons. Course 160 7 knots.

1105-Attack No. 5 Fired three Mk 14 torpedoes. Range:800 AOB 85 POA:MOT, Fore mast, Aft Mast depth:15 feet

1106-Torpedo 1 hit as aimed. Torpedoes 2 and 3 missed target. Both detonated within 15 seconds of one another after missing target. Cause of miss is possibly running deeper than set. Target damaged, engines cut out according to sound

1108-Target listing to starboard, stern low in water.Target has one large gun turret fore and aft. Guns appear to be of the five inch variant.

1114-Target is dead in water down by stern.

1115-Fired one MK 14 from 600 yards AOB 109. depth 10 feet. Torpedo hit amidships. Large fire started.

1118-NAGARA MARU 7145 tons sunk 1 36 S 148 17 E.

1521- 1 37 S 148 6 E. 54 NM NE of Manus, Admiralty Islands. Drum submerged at 90 feet between observations. Sound detected warship at bearing 300 long range. Vessel snuck up on Drum.

At periscope depth observed a Destroyer-believed to be a Mutsuki Class with a zero AOB, closing at medium speed. Possibly searching for submarine , responding to the SOS from NAGARA MARU sunk a few hours ago. Attempted to evade but plot showed would not make it. Went to 300 ft, silent running, rigged for depth charge.

1535-DD passed overhead. Seems missed Drum. Suddenly sound reported bearing change Conning tower and stern torpedo room took damage but manageable.

1538-Drum at 350 ft.

1540-0400(4 August) -DD made numerous runs on DRUM but none as close as first one. DD stayed in area , stopping periodically to listen. Explosions were heard from other sources, likely aircraft. A 2154-A second warship contact arrived, sound reported likely a PC type. The PC did not contact Drum but did drop charges in the area.

4 August-

0410-Sound reported both warships leaving area.

0630-Periscope depth. Sonar, visual, and SJ/SD sweep shows all clear. Surfaced.

5 August -

1009-SJ contact 356 9 NM.

1051- Appears one freighter with escort. Moving ahead to get into attack position

1300-Lost contact. Heavy seas, unable to make contact.

6- August-

2200-Evening Fox indicated Operation Watchtower(landings at Guadalcanal and Tulagi) begins 7 August .

7 August-

0015- Patrolling between New Hanover and St. Mathias Islands to interdict possible enemy warships and others departing Kavieng in response to Operation Watchtower.

9 August-

0145-Radio intercepted Flash Traffic from Patterson DD-392 regarding strange ships entering Savo Sound.

0151-Radio received report of naval engagement in Savo Sound.

0401-Report of major naval engagement in Savo Sound. Heavy casualties. DRUM will patrol off Kavieng to interdict any returning vessels.

1001-Submerge 20 NM NNW Kavieng.

2154-Periscope depth. 2000 yards. Three fishing boats/sampans.

2230-Surface.

10 August-

0437-Received contact report of Enemy Task Force at 2 42 S 152 56 E WNW course 21 knots. Plot shows this is 142 NM East of Kavieng. Gambling this is enemy warships returning from the Savo Island engagement heading to base at Kavieng. Will enter Kavieng Bay before dawn and patrol to see if ships arrive. ETA if Kavieng is destination is 1100 hours 10 August.

0840-Dawn. Submerged 7 NM west of Kavieng in the bay. Seas choppy with light rain and haze. Sounding:624 feet.

1007-Sound has heavy, fast screws at long range bearing 025.

1016-Radar depth for SJ sweep.

1017-General Quarters.

1029-Radar depth. SJ contact 008 8.5 NM, Visual contact 010 on masts and superstructure of large warship...likely CA or CL. Est. course 090 speed unknown.

1042-SJ sweep. Multiple contacts. Visually spotted 3 CA in distance. Ships have turned south to enter the bay.

1053-Four CA in single column 2500 yards spacing. Lead two CA are Aoba Class, Rear two are Furutaka Class.

1104-Attack No. 6: Fired four MK 14 from bow tubes. at a Furutaka Class Heavy Cruiser 7100 tons. Range 1000 yards. AOB 70 . Target course/speed: 130 14.5 knots. Entering Kavieng Bay. Torpedo depth 6 feet POA:MOT MOT, Forward turret, Aft Turret.

First three torpedoes missed. The second running under target. Fourth torpedo impacted target amidships and detonated, but target did not slow as if damaged, no fires or explosions from ship. Began turn to bring stern tubes to bear as bow torpedo supply exhausted.

1106-Attemping set up on trailing AOBA class CA.

1109-Attack No. 7. Aoba Class Heavy CA. Range 700 yards AOB 90 Fired two MK 14 from stern tubes. (final two torpedoes)

Torpedo 1 ran under stern of target. Torpedo 2 impacted under bridge area. Large explosion and fire. Large hole visible at waterline.

Target turned away presenting stern underway at 14 knots. All torpedoes expended, DRUM set course to clear bay as new warship contact from bearing of Kavieng Harbor already inbound. Likely ASW vessel.

1112-CA has list to port.

1114-Target now has heavy port list with fires raging amidships but is underway estimated 12 knots turning for Kavieng.

1120-Target is 7300 yards astern course 130 est. speed 9 knots for Kavieng. Target has heavy port list. Fires appear to have been extinguished.

1121-Warship contact closing 070. Visual ID on PC type, heavily smoking as heading for DRUM's direction at high speed.

1123-Aircraft spotted 182 8000 yards closing high speed. Single engine float plane type, possibly a "PETE". Ordered DRUM to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge.

1126-AS DRUM passed 174 feet. Two large explosions nearby.

1142-PC contact in area. Silent running.

1148-Pinging in area. Does not appear to have located DRUM.

1313-No sound contacts. Drum secured rom GQ. Maintain Silent Running.

Results: One AOBA Class Heavy Cruiser 9341 tons heavily damaged. One Furutaka Class Heavy Cruiser 7100 tons lightly damaged. One torpedo hit each.

Torpedo malfunctions again hamper best efforts to sink enemy vessels.

1320-Torpedoes expended. Per operation order, set course to terminate patrol at Midway Island.

2159-Surface.

1301-SD contact 6 NM closing fast. Lookouts spotted aircraft simultaneous bearing 101. Est. altitude 2000 feet. Ordered DIVE.

1303-As DRUM leveled off at 200 feet...two large explosions well above and to port.

1305-Another explosion bearing 271.

2138-Surfaced into storm.

17 August-

1245-SD contact 10 NM closing fast. Drum submerged. 18 13 N 169 39 E. 208 NM ESE Wake Island.

2042-Surface.

18 August-

1802-Sent status report to COMSUBPAC. Position:21 03 N 173 19 E 800 NM SW Midway Island.

1900- Evening Fox contained information that tests reveal the MK 14 torpedo runs 10 to 12 feet deeper than set. This explains many of the difficulties Drum has experienced with torpedoes during her two patrols.

21 August-

0932-Docked at Midway. Terminate patrol.

Patrol Results:

Ships sunk:3

MADRAS MARU

KIGAN MARU

NAGARA MARU

Total tonnage:18322

Ships damaged: 3

Aoba Class Heavy Cruiser

Furutaka Class Heavy Cruiser

AKITA MARU

Bubblehead1980

06-27-21, 09:21 PM

TMO. 2.5 w custom mods
100 difficult cams off contacts off.

USS Drum SS-228
Report of Third War Patrol
23 September-8 November 1942
Area(s) 4A and 5.

1.) NARRATIVE

23 September-

0900-Depart Midway Island for Area(s) 4A and 5 via Midway. 4A is primary assignment with orders to "sweep" Area 5 for forty eight hours between 1 October and 6 October. A boat is scheduled to take station in that area later in the month.

30 September-

1500-SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged to avoid. 32 N 145 E

2100-Surface.

1 October-

0100-Entered Area 4A

2 October

2200-Entered Area 5 for "sweep" over 48 hours.

3 October-

0900-Submeged for patrol.

2100-Surface.

2252-SJ contact bearing 354 9 NM.

2300-General Quarters. Visual on large transport escorted by two DD course 140 speed 17 knots. Contact report sent to COMBSUBPAC.

2310-Received reply from COMBSUBPAC. X Large troopship likely carrying frontline troops bound for Solomons via Truk. Attack at once X Moved into position, readied stern tubes for night surface torpedo attack, Drum's first. This decision was made as Drum's speed advantage was only two knots and preventing gaining optimal submerged position for dawn submerged attack. There was no moon with a light fog, optimal conditions for surface attack.

2322-Attack No. 1: Fired four torpedoes at troopship 3200 yards AOB 70. The rear DD identified as Akizuki Class.

2323-Two torpedoes prematurely exploded. Two hit the target, causing large fire and target to list to starboard. Akizuki DD closed in on Drum's position immediately but did not seem to actually acquire Drum visually. DD may have radar. Target continued underway at 6 knots, listing and burning. Drum worked ahead for follow up attack.

2351-Fired three bow torpedoes from 2300 yards AOB 80. Two prematurely detonated, one hit. Target split in two at keel. HORAI MARU 9192 tons sunk 33 48 N 138 23 E. Akizuki DD again honed in on Drum's location but was able to escape into the night. After a few minutes, the DD slowed and dropped depth charges, convinced Drum had submerged. Drum continued to clear the scene on course for primary patrol area.

4 October-

0144-SJ contact 010 8 NM . 33 20 N 138 50 E

0150-Judging by rapidly changing bearings, targets moving at high speed. Drum went to General Quarters and began closing.

0207-Visual contact on large warship identified as a CA or CL with two DD in single column. Estimated course/speed : 052 18 knots. Contact report sent to COMSUBPAC.

0214-Received reply from COMSUBPAC. X ATTACK X

0217-Large warship identified as YUBARI Class CL. Two DD unidentified.

0218-Haze lifted moon is out illuminating Drum. Submerged for attack.

0221-Attack No. 2: Fired four torpedoes range 2600 yards AOB 60.

0222-Three torpedoes prematurely detonated. This alerted the enemy as ships alarms were audible and the CL clearly slowed. However, no star shells or searchlights were spotted. The CL sped back up on its original course.

0223-As Drum's last torpedo was estimated 200 yards from target, it was spotted. More alarms were heard and the CL slowed turning hard to port (towards torpedo and Drum), The torpedo just barely missed striking the bow of the CL. Drum prepared to try another shot as was at just 1600 yards. However, the CL then sped back up and turned hard to starboard moving away from Drum at high speed. Sound had both DD's closing from different directions at high speed. Ordered 300 ft depth, rig for silent running and depth charge.

0229-0415-Pinging heard as DD's closed in. Each DD laid 3-4 patterns, none close. Drum went to 350 feet to get under them. Then both left area at high speed. The attack was ineffective in terms of damage and cut short, but effective in it kept Drum down long enough for the Yubari CL to escape.

0500-All clear. Secured GQ and Surfaced on course back to Area 4A.

6 October-14 October-

Aside from daily aircraft patrols, no contacts.

15 October-

0510- SJ contacts 345, 353 degrees. 31 52 N 141 23 E. Worked ahead of two ship one escort convoy to track until dawn for submerged attack.

0841-Submerged for attack. Escort identified as Chidori Class Torpedo Boat with two mid sized AK.

0919-Attack No. 3:Utilizing the rising sun to provide light for periscope, fired two torpedoes at RYUNN MARU 6538 tons. One impacted. causing explosion and fire amidships. Sound reports engines ceased. Chidori closing in fast. Ordered 300 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0923-The initial two barrages of depth charges were well off the mark. However, the third pattern at 0941 landed two very close charges, which is believed exploded just forward and above , possibly one below the forward torpedo room. Serious, but manageable damage resulted. (See damage section of report) .

After several more patterns, the Chidori grew distant, dropping more charges before stopping to "listen" before finally making a high speed run to the north at 1400 hours.

1600-Periscope depth. Sighted damage freighter dead in water at 6000 yards. While escort was gone, with Hachijojima just 90 NM away, highly likely a patrol craft or two and aircraft were en route.

1630-Fired one torpedo from 1000 yards at crippled ship. Torpedo prematurely detonated just 100 yards from target. Fired second torpedo, which hit and caused large fire.

1650-Still afloat. Decided to finish off freighter with deck gun.

1655-1702-Battle Surface-Gun Action. Fired 14 3 inch 50 cal shells at waterline. RYUNN MARU 6538 tons sunk 32 27 N 141 04 E.

1705-Secured from GQ. Headed away from scene at high speed.

1720-Submerged to avoid aircraft.

2100-Surface.

16-21 October-

Patrol-No contacts.

22 October-

1650- SJ contact bearing 032 8 NM. 30 32 N 141 40 E

1657-Smoke plume bearing 285 degrees. General Quarters.

1710-Submerged for attack.

1727- Two large AK sailing together. Course 345 10 knots. While no escort present , large guns as well as MG and AC observed on both vessels Lead identified as HAKUSIKA MARU class 8150 tons. Trailing AK is HEIAN MARU 11800 tons. Will target HEIAN MARU for initial attack.

1730-Twin engine bomber G4M "BETTY" observed flying over the two ships. Aircraft looped the area before moving out of sight. Drum moved in to attack.

1739-Attack No. 4: Fired 4 MK 14 torpedoes from 1000 yard AOB 85. Torpedo #4 went into circular run to port. Ordered emergency descent to 100 feet at high speed careful to keep stern from rising lest it impact with the torpedo. As Drum passed 83 feet, the torpedo, now completed one and half circle pattern, detonated directly above the stern of Drum. Damage reported to aft torpedo room and engine room. (See damage). Luckily the torpedo was set shallow and Drum was not struck by the torpedo no did it take the full effect of the explosive shock wave.

The other three torpedoes hit HEIAN MARU as aimed. Causing the ship to catch fire and list to starboard. However, the large vessel remained afloat and underway. Even at one point increasing speed to 10 knots to turn away from Drum. After five minutes, the vessel's speed dropped to 4.5 knots, likely due to engine damage from the torpedo hits.

1807-Fired two more torpedoes from 800 yards, both prematurely exploded.

1808-Fired two more torpedoes...one impacted but failed to detonate-dud. Other prematurely exploded very close to the bow, initially thought it was a hit. However, believe its close proximity did cause damage.

1809-Target now turned away from Drum presenting stern. Decide for a stern shot. Range 600 AOB 180. Fired final torpedo. Torpedo failed to detonate when impacted the stern. All torpedoes expended, Drum could just watch the stricken vessel sail on. A battle surface was not considered due to the heavy armament of both vessels compared to Drum's lone 3 inch gun, clear conditions, and proximity of assisting vessels and aircraft.

1814-HEIAN MARU took a hard roll to starboard. Many lifeboats in the water. HEIAN MARU capsized to starboard.

1815-HEIAN MARU 11800 tons sunk 30 33 N 141 32 E.

1816-Aircraft spotted bearing 091 closing fast. Drum went to 200 feet. No bombs as anticipated.

1820-Secured from GQ.

2100-Surfaced. All torpedoes expended. Set course for Pearl Harbor.

23 October-7 November-

No contacts aside from aircraft on SD radar along the track to home. Likely patrol aircraft from Marcus and Wake Islands.

8 November-

0830- Arrived Pearl Harbor. Terminated war patrol.

2.) SINKINGS

AP-HORAI MARU 9192 TONS 10/4/1942 2351 33 48 N 138 23 E

AK-RYUNN MARU 6538 tons 10/15/1942 1655 32 27 N 141 04 E.

AK-HEIAN MARU 11800 tons 10/22/1942 1815 30 33 N 141 32 E

3.) DAMAGE/CASUALTIES

A:)Drum suffered considerable damage to forward torpedo room and bow area from two close depth charges during the attack on 10/15/1942. Drum was at 350 feet when charges exploded. Most serious immediate damage was flooding in forward torpedo room. The Damage Control party immediately went into action and flooding with quelled within 5 minutes. However, enough water was taken on that speed had to be applied to control the angle, including some initial backing at 2/3 to stabilize. Drum descended to 391 feet before stabilized. Water was pumped out within the hour.

Forward batteries were also damaged and in spite of repair would only maintain full 97 percent charge for rest of the patrol.

Torpedo tubes 4 and 5 were damaged and torpedo tube six was left inoperable for two days.

Dive planes were damaged, as was WCA listening gear, and both sonar head hoists.

All repairs, minus the irreparable battery damage was completed by 18 October.

Drum also suffered damage to forward hull integrity from these close charges, which was repaired upon return to port.

B:) The circular running torpedo's detonation on 22 October caused considerable damage to the after torpedo and engine rooms.

After torpedo room: Stern Dive planes and rudder transmission were damage, along with tubes 8 and 9 and the port prop shaft.

Aft Engine room: Numbers 1 and 2 diesels and numbers 1 and 3 electric engines damage

All damage repaired by 17 October. While a serious matter and believe torpedo running deeper than set as it proximity when detonated to Drum's stern indicate it was deeper than the 3 feet, Drum was fortunate as she did not absorb the full shock wave of the explosion, which most likely would have resulted in her loss.

Amazingly, none of the crew were injured in these incidents.

3.) ENEMY ASW

Enemy ASW was roughly the same as previous patrols although the attacks were not as persistent nor had same duration. Daily aircraft activity in the home islands and off shore areas. Occasional PC or DD types on patrol are encountered. Believe enemy does have patrol assets based at Hachijojima.

The counter attack on 15 October as noted caused considerable damage. Believe the ideal sonar conditions assisted in plac chingarges in proper spot.

In three patrols, Chidori Class Torpedo Boats have proven to be effective escort vessels with passive active sonar, depth charge racks and throwers.

However, Below 300 ft and especially closer to 400, the effectiveness of enemy sonar gear does seem to greatly diminish.

Air patrols remain the most consistent threat to our submarines on patrol. While SD radar is generally reliable, on occasion is does fail.

Believe the Akizuki Class DD encountered on 4 October was equipped with surface search radar as quickly honed in on Drum's location. If not for the ideal conditions(no moon, light fog) preventing visual contact, Drum likely have had to dive to avoid the DD.

3A.) EVASION

Drum employed the same evasion tactics as previous patrols. After attack, dive to 300 feet, silent running. 5-10 degrees of rudder is maintained at all times, alternating direction as required. This keeps Drum in a constant turn and prevents enemy from gaining an accurate estimate on Drum's course.

When able, Drum is turned into the attacking escort to present a zero AOB and thus narrow profile to the sonar beam. Once overhead, speed bursts are used to clear from under the vessel until after the depth charges have exploded, relying on the disturbances to shield the sound of Drum speeding away. 15-20 seconds after last burst Drum goes to all stop and allows the momentum to carry through a turn to port of starboard, as is required, typically with 25 degrees rudder. Once speed has fallen to 2 knots and turn underway, go to 1/3 and return rudder to or 10 degrees.

Depth is added as required. In three patrols Drum had to exceed test depth to get under enemy sonar and depth charges, typically 300-400 feet. First patrol in Suruga Bay, Drum was forced to 500 feet in order to escape but this is done in extreme circumstances only.

4.) SOUND CONDITIONS

Sounds conditions in patrol area(s) was moderate to poor at times. Thermal layers were encountered during the attack(s) 10/4(210 ft) 10/15 (156 ft)

5.) WEATHER

Weather conditions were surprisingly calm for majority of patrol with a few storms in mid October. A light fog and haze hampered visibility most nights, especially when off Honshu in Area 5.

6.) HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Crew health is excellent as is morale.

7.) Miles steamed: 8,500 Nautical Miles.

8.) 75,000 gallons of fuel consumed.

9.) Ammunition Expended:

Torpedoes: MK 14 x 24

Guns:

14 3 inch 50 caliber rounds.

20 MM: 0

10.) COMMENTS

Patrol and attack tactics for were somewhat different this time out. Since Area 4A is a somewhat open ocean area, Drum remained surfaced most of the time, diving to avoid aircraft and to remained hidden as needed. Patrolling with the SJ on the surface enabled to make important contacts likely would have missed. While in Area 5 and closer to the coast, submerged in the day time day to air patrols. and diminished SD performance close to land.

Second, Drum conducted her first night surface torpedo attack. The attack was successful and could be repeated again in proper conditions.

Torpedo malfunctions remain a serious issue on patrol. Torpedoes were set to minimal depth permitted by sea state typically 3 feet) on all attacks given the results of the recent testing regarding running depth of the MK 14. This seemed to stop the misses due to deep running torpedoes experienced on the first two patrols.

Premature detonation remains the most common failure, followed by "duds" , the failure of torpedoes to detonate upon clearly impacted a target.

The circle run during the final attack on 10/22 was the second circular run Drum has experienced in three patrols and this time it indeed endangered the boat as it exploded within close proximity.

Bubblehead1980

06-29-21, 01:26 AM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
100 difficulty. Cams and map contacts off.

USS Drum SS 228
Fourth War Patrol
29 November 1942 - 22 January 1942

Prologue

Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. on November 8, 1942 from Third War Patrol. Commenced refit on November 9, 1942 by Submarine Base personnel. All damage from previous patrol repaired. On November 14, 1942, Lieut. Comdr. R.H. Rice, U.S. Navy was relieved as Commanding Officer by Lieut. Comdr. B.F. McMahon, U.S. Navy. Completed refit on November 23, 1942.Commenced training period on November 24, 1942. Completed on November 26, 1942. Readiness for sea date, November 29, 1942.

(1.) Narrative

29 November-

1000-Departed Pearl Harbor for patrol Area 8 via Midway.

3 December-

0925-Docked at Midway for fuel and provisions.

1230-Departed Midway.

4 December-14 December

En route to patrol area. No contacts except SD planes submerged for on 11 and 14 December.

15 December-

0300-Entered patrol Area 8.

16 December-

1929-SJ contact 272 degrees 8 NM. 30 22 N 132 14 E.

2035 - ATTACK NO. 1 : Fired three MK 14 torpedoes. Range: 800 yards AOB 88 Depth 3 ft. POA: MOT, Forward, Aft stack.

Two torpedoes prematurely exploded just yards from target, initially thought were hits were so close. Torpedo 3 hit target just forward of aft stack large explosions of engines/boilers but tanker apparently not loaded with fuel as did not ignite as expected. Engines may have been damaged but not disabled as sound confirmed prop turning.

2036 -Fired a fourth torpedo which hit the stern causing a large explosion. Tanker went dead in water down by stern.

2040-BUZYUN MARU (AO) 4804 tons sunk 30 20 N 132 17 E.

18 December

0334-Armed Fishing Boat Est. 200 tons sunk by gunfire. 31 02 N 132 32 E.

23 December-

0643- Sunk fishing boat es. 200 tons by gunfire. 29 07 N 131 58 E.

24 December-

0734- SJ contact. Bearing 300 8 NM. Pulled ahead for submerged attack at dawn.

0930-Barely able to maintain lead over fast moving ships astern. Waiting for sun rise for submerged attacked. General Quarters. Seas were now heavy, slowing Drum's surface speed.

1027-Observed what believed to be CVL with DD's and other vesells. Contact report sent to COMSUBPAC. Enemy task force consisting of one CV, one CVL, one CA, Four DD.Position 29 38 N 133 14 E Course 075 degrees Speed 18 knots. Submerged for attack.

1052 ATTACK NO. 2: Fired six MK 14 torpedoes at SHOKAKU Class Fleet Carrier. Range 1200 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth: 10 feet. POA: MOT with 2.5 degree spread on TDC. One torpedo prematurely detonated soon as armed. Another torpedo suffered apparent gyro failure and took a strait line course before exploding. Four others hit the carrier. The first two were absorbed well, the third caused a large secondary explosion as did the third. The carrier, deck burning with internal fires billowing smoke, slowed with a list. With a DD just 900 yards away, Drum went to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

1054-DD overhead, charges dropped none close. Enemy DD seemed unable to track Drum due to heavy seas.

1055-Large explosions heard and sounds of ship breaking up.

1059-A series of massive explosions at last known bearing of the CV that was torpedoed. The engine sounds of the CV had ceased just after Drum descended to 350 ft.

1100-Shokaku Class Fleet Carrier 28000 tons sunk 29 38 N 133 14 E.

Two enemy destroyers searching for Drum with occasional pinging but were unable to gain a fix due to heavy seas and a thermal layer. Soon departed the area at high speed to rejoin the rest of the force.

1400-Secured from GQ. Remained submerged for rest of day due to intense air cover in area.

2300-Surface.

27 December

2132- SJ contact bearing 046 9 NM. 29 20 N 133 10 E

2140-General Quarters.

2155-Submerged for dusk periscope attack. Convoy sighted four ships one escort.

2236 -ATTACK NO. 3 Fired two MK 14 torpedoes Range: 1000 yard AOB 85 Torpedo depth: 10 ft. POA: MOT, Both torpedoes impacted target. Target slowed, then went dead in water due to damage. Fired third torpedo, which prematurely exploded.

28 December-

0300-Surfaced. BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION. Target opened fire with MG/AC on Drum. Drum expended 14 3 inch 50 cal rounds for 13 hits.

0305-Fires on board enemy vessel. Cease fire. Crew abandoning ship.

0307-AKITA MARU class AK sunk 29 24 N 133 13 E.

0310-Begin end around on convoy for dawn submerged attack.

1049-Regained SJ contact. 350 9 NM.

1141-General Quarters.

1232-Submerged for attack.

1330-Attack No. 4- Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range 1000 AOB 90 depth 3 ft. First torpedo went into circular run forcing Drum to 100 feet. Second and third prematurely exploded 50-100 yards from target. First torpedo made a full circle before detonating itself .

1332-Enemy escort closed in pinging as Drum settled at 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running. Several depth charge explosions, not close.

1345-1800- Several close depth charges caused various damage . See damage section.

1920-After several hours under attack, lost sonar contact with enemy escort.

2300-Secure GQ, surface for end around.

29 December

0148- Regained SJ contact with convoy bearing 300 9 NM. Closing for night surface torpedo attack. Final attack as convoy will be well out of Drum's assigned area.

0151-General Quarters.

0219-Contact report sent to COMSUBPAC. Convoy course 023 9 knots. Three AK one Aux SC escorting.

0243-ATTACK NO. 5- Fired four Mk 14 torpedo range(s) 2100/1900 AOB: 70/85. Fired two torpedoes each at BIYO MARU and WATANABE MARU. All torpedoes prematurely exploded.

The explosions appeared to alert the convoy as it slowed, searchlights illuminated area along with star shells. Drum sped away into the night escaping detection. Set course to SW to return to patrol area.

1 January 1943-

0000- Position: 29 53 131 44 E 100 NM SE Kyushu, Japan in Area 8.

1140-Trim Dive.

1145-During morning trim dive, sound detected a contact bearing 145 long range.

1150-Surface. Intercept course for contact.

1206-SJ contact 000 9 NM. Simultaneously visually sighted smoke plume same bearing. General Quarters.

1240-Submerged for attack.

1257- ATTACK NO. 6- Fired one MK 14 torpedo. Range 1000 AOB 85 Torpedo Depth: 3 ft. POA: Aft stack. Torpedo hit the tanker under the stack as aimed.Tanker lost its way going adrift and down by the stern, eventually with half the ship submerged but seemed to secured herself. Crew had not abandoned ship. Decided to finish off with deck gun.

1311-Surface. BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION, commenced firing.

1320-Cease fire. HARUNA MARU 1549 tons sunk by torpedo hit and gunfire. 29 29 N 131 55 E . Stubborn little tanker took a torpedo hit and 21 3 inch 50 cal shell hits before finally sinking. Crew in life rafts.

7 January-

0014- SJ contact 325 28 59 N 131 54 E.

0026- Contact report sent to COMSUBPAC. Convoy two large troopships 29 00 N 131 E two DD course 233 19 knots.

0027-Submerge for attack.

0039 ATTACK NO. 7: Fired two MK 14 torpedoes at large troopship...possibly KOTOBURKI MARU 18765 tons. Range 1850 yards. AOB 72 Depth 3 ft POA: MOT Both torpedoes prematurely exploded 6 and 9 seconds after launch.

0040-Went to 350 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge. Escorts did not pursue Drum, dropped one pattern each and left area at high speed with transports.

0300-Surface. Secure from GQ. All torpedoes expended, set course for Pearl Harbor via Midway.

8 January-

1400-1700- Refueled at Midway. Depart for Pearl Harbor.

22 January-

0900-Docked at Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor. Terminated war patrol.

(2.) Weather
The weather during this patrol was not worthy for the number of days of rough seas and overcast skies experienced. We had approximately forty percent (40%) of days when the seas were so rough that operations were difficult. However, the rough seas did provide cover from ASW efforts after the attacks of 24 and 27 December. The large number of overcast days made position keeping difficult, particularly in view of the strong northeast currents encountered during January.

(3.) Tidal Information
The flood and ebb of the tides effect the currents off the east coast of Kyushu, being northerly during the flood, and southerly during the ebb tide; the southerly current being the stronger of the two.

Drifts as high as three (3) to three and five tenths (3.5) knots were experienced in the Kuroshio during January, in the vicinity of the southeast corner of the operating area.

(4.) Navigational Aids
No navigational aids spotted in patrol area. Sofu Gan was used as an aid when departing patrol area.

(5.) Particulars of Attack

Vessels sunk:

12/16/1942 2039 BUZYUN MARU AO 4804 tons 30 20 N 132 17 E

12/18/1942 0332 Fishing Boat 200 tons 31 02 N 131 32 E

12/20/1942 0643 Fishing Boat 200 tons 29 07 131 58 E

12/24/1942 1100 Shokaku Class CV 28000 tons 29 38 N 133 14 E

12/28/1942 0303 AKITA MARU AK 3936 tons 29 24 N 133 13 E

1/1/1943 1320 HARUNA MARU AO 1549 tons 29 29 N 131 55 E

Vessels damaged: 0

Number of Torpedo Attacks: 7

Number of Gun Actions: 4

Torpedoes Expended: 24

3 inch 50 Cal Deck rounds expended: 41

20 MM rounds expended: 0

(6.) Enemy A/S Measures

Enemy counter attacks were basically the same as Drum encountered on three previous patrols. However, the poor sonar conditions severely affected the ability to track and attack Drum.

Conversely, once the seas calmed the same Aux. Subchaser escort that was so ineffective after attack No. 2 was able to deliver an effect and damaging depth charging after Attack No. 3 on 28 December, causing damage. See Damage section.

Enemy aircraft cover the area effectively with daily air patrols and respond to reports of submarines after attack. No patrol craft were spotted this patrol likely due to the open ocean nature of Drum's patrol area, not near the coast.

(6a.) Countermeasures-ASW

When under depth charge attack, a narrow profile to the sonar beam is presented as possible. 300 ft if the initial depth, with increases as required to get under the enemy attack. Drum did reach 400 ft at one point during the depth charging on 28 December.

(9.) Major Defects Experienced

Torpedo failure continue to plague Drum.

Premature detonations:10-12

Duds:0

Depth Control Issues: Unknown. No misses attributed to this issue as torpedoes set to minimal depth to compensate, depending state of seas.

Circular Run: 1

Gyro Failure: 1

(10.) Radio Reception

Radio reception was excellent on this patrol.

Radar: The SJ radar performed very efficiently. The Commanding Officer cannot praise this equipment too highly. It proved itself invaluable on many occasions. It is regretted that more opportunities to use it for attack were not presented.

Our experience with the SJ radar equipment has shown that the following results may be expected: (a) Large ships will be picked up at 14,000 - 15,000 yards; also any ship picked up at this range is at once identified as a large ship. (b) Destroyers will be picked up at from 8,000 to 10,000 yards. (c) Large sized sampans and patrol boats will be picked up at 5,000 - 7,000 yards. (d) Wooden sampans will not be picked up, or may give a ragged pip at ranges under 4,000 yards.

The radar proved itself invaluable defensively also, as it prevented us from running up on a patrolling destroyer on several occasions.

The performance of the SD radar was excellent.

(11.) Sound Conditions and Density Layers
Sound conditions were poor to fair. Thermal density layers were located at 200, 245 and 190 feet.

(12.) Damage/Casualties

28 December

At 1345 two or three close depth charges exploded near Drum's port side either or just below the forward torpedo and control room level. Damage was reported to the forward batteries. The control room and conning tower had leaks in high pressure air lines and piping spraying water into the compartments. The control room had flooding which was quickly quelled and water pumped within the hour by the Damage Control party.

A close depth charged at 1357 caused damage to the forward engine rooms and after batteries. Additional leaks in air lines and piping reported in control room and conning tower as well as throughout the boat.

At 1404 a very close depth charge caused more mild flooding in control room, quickly resolved. Damage was also done to the trim pump, radios, hydraulic pump, and compressor. as well as damage throughout the boat.

Post patrol inspection showed hull was damaged by the depth charge attacks, compromising diving depth by estimated 21 percent.

All damage was repaired by 29 December, minus the hull damage.

(13.) Nautical Miles steamed enroute to and from station 10620.

(14.) Fuel expended 109,511 gallons.

(15.) Comments

A challenging, busy, but successful patrol. If not for the repeated failures of MK 14 torpedo, would have been even more successful. The attack and sinking of the Shokaku Class Carrier on 24 December was a moment of fortune. Encountering at night on surface, with Drum in position already ahead and able to track until dawn. The calm seas growing rough just 30 minutes before attack time, providing cover from enemy sonar as Drum penetrated the escort screen, as well as after the attack.

After four consecutive war patrols, Drum is scheduled for a much needed extended refit before next patrol. This included modification to conning tower to further reduce her silhouette , with addition an improved SD radar, a 4 inch 50 caliber gun, and additional 20 MM guns which will improve her lethality.

Bubblehead1980

07-01-21, 04:40 AM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
100 difficult. Contacts off, Cam on(for a change)

USS Drum SS-228
Fifth War Patrol

24 March- 1943

(A.) Prologue

Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. on January 22, 1943 from Fourth War Patrol. Commenced repairs and overhaul by Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, on January 25, 1943. Completed overhaul on March 11, 1943. Damage repaired.
4"/50 caliber gun installed forward of conning tower; pilot house cut away and twin 20 mm mounts installed fore and aft or conning tower, as well as on aft deck; all outstanding alterations completed. Loaded with 24 MK 14 torpedoes with new Torpex explosive warheads and new depth equipment, said to solved the deep running torpedo problem. Commenced training period March 16, 1943, and completed it on March 19, 1943. Ready for sea March 24, 1943.

B. Narrative

24 March

0900-Departed Pearl Harbor with escort PC 477 for assigned patrol area in Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes via Johnston Island. Orders specify a course that will take Drum through the Gilbert Islands between Tarawa and Makin Atolls.

1130-Trim Dive

1200-Surfaced

1300-1900-Conducted dive, torpedo, and gunnery drills.

25 March-

Conducted drills en route Johnston Island.

26 March-

1400-1700-Fueled at Johnston Island.

1705-Departed Johnston Islands for patrol area via Gilbert Islands.

6 April-

1524-Position 10' 0 S 149 10 E 75 NM NW of St Mathias Islands. One hour after submerging to avoid SD contact, sound reported distant props at bearing 289.

1537-Surface. Closed on contact bearing.

1551-Smoke Sighted bearing 350. Near simultaneous SJ contact bearing 354 9 NM .Appears to be a convoy. General Quarters.

1555-Submerged for attack. 7 NM ahead of convoy.

1616- Four ship one escort convoy course 015 speed 7 knots.

1649-Pinging. Drum somehow detected. Escort turning back 2000 yards away.

1650-ATTACK NO. 1: Switched to closest target, lead freighter in port column. MADRAS MARU class AK. Fired three MK 14 torpedoes range 1000 yards AOB 90. Depth 6 ft.

1651- Three torpedoes hit target. Third as Drum was passing 70 feet with escort closing.

1652-Escort closing in pinging short scale. Escort is MS-19 Class Minesweeper. Escort passed overhead. Splashes. Drum at 300 ft. DC explosions astern

1653- MADRAS MARU 3790 tons sunk 0 19 S 149 02 E

1700-Escort pinging closing Drum from 078.

1747-Close DC explosion. Damage reported (see damage section)

2000-lost sound contact with escort. Last heard leaving area at high speed.

2137- Visual, Sound, SJ SD sweeps all clear. Secure GQ, Surface for end around.

7 April-

0002-Regained SJ contact 001 9 NM. Continued end around.

0034-General Quarters.

0036- Convoy in sight. Course 012 8 knots. Approached from astern up to the port side of convoy, to gain position for surfaced torpedo attack.

0156-ATTACK NO . 2 :Fired four MK 14 torpedoes from stern tubes (on the surface) at two targets from 2100/1900 yards AOB 70/85. Two torpedoes prematurely exploded, one hit small freighter but failed to explode as confirmed by sound. One torpedo hit large freighter and exploded, causing large secondary explosion. Freighter dead in water. Heavy gunfire from convoy. shells landing to port and starboard ahead. Escort turned toward Drum firing. Drum on high speed run away.

0201-KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk at 0 17 N 149 10 E.

0218-Escort slowed and turned back, giving up chase. Drum continued on course SW to return to patrol area as last position shows had crossed out of area above 0 N of it in pursuit of convoy.

0225-Secure GQ. Reload torpedoes and complete battery charge.

2300-Heavy seas and wind.

8 April

0402- 0 40 S 147 30 E. SJ contact 320 9 NM. End around for dawn submerged attack.

0530- Ahead of two ship convoy, unclear if escorted. Visibility low. Convoy course 130 7 k nots.

0650-Range opening. Convoy zigged to west. New course 195 degrees. Heavy seas continue.

0850- General Quarters.

0903-Submerged for dawn periscope attack.

0925- Convoy zigged, with each ship in opposite directions. Ships are of identical class. Unclear if Drum detected (not sure how) or if routine move to throw off possible tracking submarine. Tracking lead freighter.

0943-ATTACK NO. 3- Fired two MK 14 torpedoes. Range 1000 yards AOB 85. Torpedo depth 15 feet. POA: MOT Both torpedoes impacted as aimed, causing large explosions and damage. Fires.

0946- KANAGA MARU 4923 tons sunk. 1 11 S 147 47 E.

1000-ATTACK NO. 4 Fired TWO MK 14 torpedoes 700 yards AOB 100. Torpedo Depth 15 feet. POA MOT. Both torpedoes impacted as aimed. one minute are second impact, a massive secondary explosion occurred, breaking the ship in half. KANAGA MARU class AK 4923 tons sunk 1 10 S 147 47 E

1005-Surfaced. Ran to west to clear scene.

1155-Submerged to reload torpedoes and permit crew rest. Unable to reload in heavy seas.

2100-Surfaced.

10 April-

0052- SJ contact bearing 054. Rapid bearing changes. Possibly warships out of Kavieng moving at high speed.

0053-General Quarters.

0130-Identified as two DD's possibly Kagero and Fubuki class. DD's were on apparent ASW sweep. Could indicate heavy traffic through area. Avoided contact and secured GQ, will patrol for more important targets.

0900-Patrolling 40 NM off Kavieng at 2 S 150 40 E

11 April-
.
0755-Sighted fishing boat possible picket.

0802-Submerged.

0821-Close inspection via periscope. Vessel appears to be native. No radio antenna or guns etc visible. Decided not to engage.

0830-Decided to remain submerged for day to patrol the strait between New Hanover and St Mathias Islands.

2133-Surface.

14 April-

0445-Encountered 3500 tons paddle coastal steamer off St Mathias Islands along with a large sampan. Steamer was flying Japanese flag. Believe making a cargo run to the Admiralties. Unusually far from shore, may have been lost in storms.

0455- BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION.

0505-GUN ACTION # 1: Sunk Coastal Paddle Steamer Est. 3500 tons at 0 45 S 148 35 N by 4 inch 50 cal gun fire (30 hits out of 51 fired) from ranges 4500-5000 yards. Steamer had 3 or 4 inch gun aft and returned fire with one shell coming close. Also fired with MG AC but Drum out of range

0516-Utilizing Drum's new additional twin 20 MM mounts, opened fired on the large sampan accompanying the steamer. The sampan was reduced to a flaming wreck with the hulk floating on fire by combined 20 MM fired. Used two 4 inch 50 cal shells at waterline to finish the job.

Sampan est. 80 tons sunk at 0 45 S 148 35 N.

0517-Secure General Quarters.

15 April-

1325-Submerged to avoid SD contact at 8 NM closing fast. 0 40 S 148 20 E.

2100-Surface.

18 April-

0234- SJ contact bearing 012 9 NM.

0245-General Quarters.

0314-Submerged for attack. Too much moonlight for night surface torpedo attack.

0330-Convoy zigged to west opening range. May be forced to fire from longer range.

0337-ATTACK NO. 5: Fired three MK 14 torpedoes. Range: 3455 yards AOB 90 Torpedo Depth: 10 feet. POA: MOT.

0338- two premature detonations.

0340-Torpedo impact. Large explosion. Target HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 tons. Sound reports engine noises on target have ceased.

0345-Pinging.

0346-DD overhead. Splashes in water.

0347-DC explosions. Drum at 350 ft.

0443-DD went silent. Believed DD was "sleeping" , listening.

0900-Dawn. Periscope depth. All clear. SJ sweep contact at 110. Visual on smoke plume, can see stationary vessel. This is vessel torpedoed in ATTACK NO. 5. Drum down to 90 ft. closed to finish target off. Believe escort and other AK left area.

1000-Opted to torpedo target in lieu of gun action. Seas are heavy. Target has 4 inch gun mounted forward as well.

1016 - ATTACK NO 5 (Continued) Fired 1 MK 14 torpedo range 800 AOB 90. Depth 15 ft POA MOT. Torpedo impacted but failed to detonate.

1017-Fired another torpedo. Impacted as aimed. Large hole amidships under stack. Large fire at waterline from the hole. Listing to port and by stern.

1022-Fired a third torpedo. Torpedo impacted.

1024-HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 tons sunk 0 15 S 149 03 E.

1100-Secured from GQ. Depth 300 feet. Reloading torpedoes, unable on surface due to heavy seas. Will remain submerged rest of day to avoid air patrols and allow crew to rest.

20 April-

1557 -SJ contact 059 9 NM closing fast. Weather:Storms, heavy seas, fog, rain. Estimated position 1 50 S 146 0 E 40 NM West of Admiralty Islands.

1730-Lost SJ contact.

22 April-

0655- SJ contact bearing 005 9 NM.

0720-Bearing changed, range opened. Believe convoy zigged to west. Closed for dawn periscope attack.

0745-Weather set in.Heavy rain wind seas, fog. Waiting to clear. Lost SJ contact.

Drum was not able to regain contact.

23 April-

2330- SJ contact 030 9 NM.

2332-Rapidly bearing change suggest targets moving high speed. General Quarters. Intercept course 220 flank speed.

2347-Convoy or task force course 170 est speed 18 knots. five contacts on SJ total. Will attempt night surface torpedo attack with stern tubes.

24 April-

0004-Two large AK or AP escorted by 3 DD DE. Course 171 17 knots. Contact report sent. 0 28 S 148 29 E Two large troopships three DD. One Fubuki class leading , other two unknown

0025-ATTACK NO 6. (night surface torpedo) Fired four MK 14 torpedoes Range: 3500 yards AOB 60. Forced to fire earlier due to port flank escorting DD rapidly returning to position and would be on top of Drum at planned firing point. Submerged just after firing.

0026-Two premature detonations.

0027-third premature. one torpedo impacted amidships of large troopship to be KOTOBUKI MARU 18765 tons. DD 1000 yards bearing 210. Pinging began 10 seconds after impact. Drum t0o 300 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge. A few depth charges were dropped but none close and escorts failed to established solid contact.

0326-Periscope/Radar depth. All clear. Secure SR Surfaced for pursuit course.

0800-Unable to regain contact with convoy. Turned north to avoid entering another patrol area. One KOTBUKI MARU class PL 18765 tons damaged by one torpedo hit.

26 April-

0928-Spotted fishing type boat bearing 004 range 6000 yards at dawn. BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION .

1003-Commenced firing 4 inch and 20 MM guns.

1008-Cease fire. Sunk one large Japanese fishing boat and one large sampan est 200 tons and 80 tons at 0 41 S 149 09 E.

1010-Secured GQ.

26 April-

0928-Spotted fishing type boat bearing 004 range 6000 yards at dawn. BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION .

1003-Commenced firing 4 inch and 20 MM guns.

1008-Ceased fire. Sunk one large Japanese fishing boat and one large sampan est 200 tons and 80 tons at 0 41 S 149 09 E.

1010-Secured GQ.

28 April-

0444-SJ contact bearing 035 9 NM.

0450-Rapid bearing and range change, believe have task for or high speed convoy as on 24 April.

0502-General Quarters. Range still closing. Speed is exceeding Drum's 20 knots. Opted for moonlight periscope attack with three remaining torpedoes in bow tubes.

0510-Submerged for attack. Lead DD spotted at 9200 yards ahead of Drum .

0517- Heavy cruiser. leading another possible CA with DD's forming screen possibly Takao Class at 3300 yards. Estimated course 350 speed 21 knots. Readied Tubes 3,4,5

0521 -ATTACK NO . 7: Fired three torpedoes. Range:2100 yards AOB: 80 Torpedo depth: 10 ft. POA: MOT MOT, Forward turret. Target is TAKAO CLASS CA 16870 tons.

0522-One premature detonation. Torpedo impact...last torpedo missed ahead by 10 feet or less as CA made hard starboard turn. Large fire consuming CA t impact area amidships and forward, bridge area on fire. Pinging from port flank DD just 1300 yards. Ordered 350 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0525-DC splashes. DD overhead. DC explosions appear all above.

0531-Drum at 380 feet. Two DD now hunting. The DD's made tow runs each, no DC came very close. The DD's then tooled around for some time. Once again .The attack was surprisingly lax. See ASW section .

0808-Visual and SJ sweep clear. Surface. Secure GQ. All torpedoes expended but will pursue course 350 at best speed in attempt to regain contact to observe damaged CA and send out another contact report if possible.

1737- Submerged to avoid closing SD contact.

1757-Surfaced.

29 April-

0000-Discontinued pursuit due to fuel level , position shows well out of patrol area and that by this point unlikely to regain contact. Set course for Brisbane. East coast New Ireland

6 May-

1000-Docked at Brisbane. Terminated patrol .

(C.) Weather

The weather during the entire time in assigned area had what can best be described as mostly unfavorable conditions that included; calm to glassy seas, little or no wind, or heavy seas with high winds along with frequent rain squalls with attendant poor visibility, and partly cloudy skies. Heavy weather which suddenly set in during tracking of contact, caused loss of contact and prevented attack.

(D) Tidal Information
In the patrol area, currents of one-half knot setting east to southeast were experienced at times.

In the area, westward of the Solomon Islands, from 10° S. to the pass between New Ireland and Buka, currents of 1.0 to 1.5 knots setting southeasterly were encountered.

(E) Navigational Aids
None sighted.

(F) Attack

Torpedo Attacks Conducted: 7

Torpedoes expended:24

Gun Attacks:4

Gun rounds expended:

4' 50 Cal. x 71

20mm x 1142

Sinking by torpedo:

Date: Time: Type/Class/Name Tonnage: Location:

4/6/1943 1615 AK-MADRAS MARU 3790 0 19 S 149 02 E

4/7/1943 0201 AK KIGAN MARU 7390 0 17 N 149 10 E

4/8/1943 0946 AK KANAGA MARU 4923 1 11 S 147 47 E

4/8/1943 1000 AK KANAGA MARU 4923 1 11 S 147 47 E

4/18/1943 1024 AK HAKUSIKA MARU 8100 0 15 S 149 03 E

Sunk by gunfire:

Date: Time: Type/Class/Name Tonnage: Location:

4/18/1943 0505 AK Paddle Steamer 3500 0 45 S 148 35 N

4/18/1943 0510 Large Sampan 80 0 45 S 148 35 N

4/26/1943 1008 Fishing Boat 200 0 41 S 149 09 E

4/26/1943 1008 Sampan 80 0 41 S 149 09 E

Damaged:

Date: Time: Type/Class/Name Tonnage: Location: Cause:

4/24/1943 0027 AP KOTBUKI MARU 18765 0 28 S 148 29 E Torp.

4/28/1943 0522 CA Takao Class 15870 1 23 S 148 27 N Torp.

(G.) Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics

Anti-Submarine measures on this patrol was essentially no different that what Drum had encountered on four previous patrols. The depth charge attack on 6 April was most effective of the attacks received on this patrol, causing some damage (see damage section). The Minesweeper escort appeared to only have stern racks and no throwers with what is assumed typical active and passive sonar gear. The ideal sonar conditions did assist in this attack.

The escorting vessels in the attacks on the KOTOBUKI MARU and Takao Class Heavy Cruiser were not as effective nor persistent as one would assume they would be. Believe where enemy vessels are escorting fast warships and transports, their goal in depth charging is to keep the submarine down so they fast ships can open the range and prevent a follow up attack, upon which the escorts utilizing their speed can rejoin. Drum has encountered this on previous patrols and this one as well. This is opposed to escorts of convoys with slower vessels which tend to be quite persistent in their attacks, which often last hours.

Patrol aircraft were encountered nearly daily but no visual contacts were made as SD provided ample warning to dive.

Two surface patrols consisting of DD or DE types were encountered during patrol, they were focusing on the Bismark Sea "chokepoint" between Admiralty Islands and New Hanover/St Mathias Islands, and New Ireland. Possible these vessels have surface search radar.

Evasive tactics during depth charge attacks were Drum's standard fare: 300 foot depth, silent running, 5-10 degrees rudder all times, alternating as required with 25-50 ft depth increase in increments when the escort is making its run, while Drum is in its sonar blind spot, along with a speed burst (ahead full or flank as needed) typically lasting 60-120 seconds to get out from under the depth charge pattern. During this patrol Drum did reach a depth of 400 feet to get under the sonar and charges on 6 April .

Tactics above were used in other evasions, but max depth reached was 350 ft.

The improved model of the SD radar installed during refit typically detected aircraft at 12-15 NM, permitting a dive. In the calm and clear seas where the boat is likely visible from air, will dive to 200 ft for 30-60 minutes before coming back to scope depth for a visual and SD sweep before surfacing. When required, may remain submerged to avoid persistent air contacts, such as after an attack.

Escorted enemy vessels have become more common in recent patrols but a proper convoy system does not seem in place as most consist of a few vessels and one escort.

(H) Major Defects and Damage

Torpedoes continued to suffer failures...primarily premature detonations. Depth keeping performance was improved this patrol as believed suffered no deep runners. Dud torpedoes are an additional issue as well.

On 6 April one or two close depth charges caused minor damage to after batteries, hydraulic, and trim pumps. Water and air lines leaks in the conning tower and control room as well as electrical shorts. No.2 periscope, TBT mount on the bridge, and forward dive planes were also damaged but all repairs were conducted at sea.

(I) Radio

Radio function was normal throughout patrol.

(J) Radar

SJ radar performed well for most of patrol, typically detecting larger vessels at 8-9 NM. Smaller vessels around 5-6 NM.

The improved SD radar installed during refit after last patrol worked well with aircraft typically detected at 12-15 NM.

(K) Sound gear and Conditions

WCA Listening and Sonar gear function well overall. The sonar conditions were ideal for most of patrol, aside from the storms. During trim dives each morning a thorough sound sweep is made and is often our first indication of a nearby vessel.

(L) Thermal Layers

Three thermal layers were encountered during depth charge attacks at 190 , 250, and 211 feet. They aided in the successful evasion of enemy escorts.

(M) Crew

Total Crew:68

Officers: 7(Including Commanding Officer)

Chief Petty Officers: 6

Men: 55

Morale: Morale is high after another successful patrol.

Health: Health of crew is excellent.

Injuries: No injuries on this patrol .

(N) Miles Steamed/fuel consumed

Brisbane to Area 1965 Miles 17405 Gallons
In Area 5565 Miles 38483 Gallons
Area to Brisbane 1951 Miles 19823 Gallons
Total 9481 Miles 75711 Gallons

Duration of Patrol: 42 days.

Reason for termination: All torpedoes expended and low fuel state.

(O) Remarks

Failure of the magnetic detonators continues to be a problem. In five patrols this issue along with others has cost Drum the sinking of several vessels, including the Takao CA on this patrol. The explosions endanger the boat and crew as they reveal presence to enemy escorts, alerting targets to take evasion action, and foiling attacks. The torpedoes failure to exploded on contact resulting in"duds" also remains an issue. Drum suffered no apparent deep running or circle running torpedoes this patrol.

The cut down of the conning tower to reduce visibility and allow a forward twin 20 MM gun mount as well as addition of aft deck twin 20 MM gun mount proved an excellent set up during the gun actions on this patrol. The 20 MM 's make quick work of the smaller vessels permitting conservation of 4 inch ammo for larger targets.

The new torpex warheads did make a noticeable difference when the torpedoes impacted the enemy. Examples would be ATTACK NO. 3, two torpedoes to each vessel was enough to do the job where as previously three torpedoes would have been typically required. The hit on the Takao CA caused serious visible damage, believed had one of the other two torpedoes impacted, the cruiser would have been crippled if not outright sunk.

https://i.postimg.cc/21Ny6rcj/Refitted-Drum5thpatrol.png (https://postimg.cc/21Ny6rcj) Drum refitted prior to fifth patrol...pilot house further cut away to reduce silhouette with fore gun platform added. Additional 20 MM twin mount on aft deck.

https://i.postimg.cc/bstdpsRF/20-MMopeningup.png (https://postimg.cc/bstdpsRF) 20 MM's opening up on small craft during Fifth War Patrol (modded them to function as AI deck guns)

https://i.postimg.cc/Wdm3qCCG/Drum-Fifthwarpatrolgunaction.png (https://postimg.cc/Wdm3qCCG) BATTLE SURFACE- GUN ACTION

https://i.postimg.cc/QB0d05XV/Drum-HKM5thpatrolsink.png (https://postimg.cc/QB0d05XV) Periscope photo of HAKUSIKA MARU sinking.

https://i.postimg.cc/jw2d955c/Drumsubmerged.png (https://postimg.cc/jw2d955c) Aerial shot of Drum submerging in Australian waters.

https://i.postimg.cc/bD5NjhSh/Drumsunset.png (https://postimg.cc/bD5NjhSh) Sunset photo.

Bubblehead1980

07-03-21, 03:50 PM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods

100 difficulty, cams off map contacts on.

USS Drum SS-228
Sixth War Patrol
7 June-26 July 1943
Assigned area: Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes South of Truk, north of Bismark Sea, New Ireland, Admiralty Islands.

(A) Prologue

Returned from fifth war patrol on May 6, 1943. Normal refit by U.S.S. FULTON at Brisbane, Australia. Ready for sea, June 7, 1943.After six successful patrols ,Executive Officer LT Irving T. Ryan detached for new construction, LT Benjamin Roderick P. Digby assumed the role of Executive Officer.

Mission: DESTROY ENEMY VESSELS in Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes.

(B) Narrative

7 June-

0900- Departed Brisbane, Australia for patrol area.

1300-Trim dive.

8-10 June-

Conducted diving, attack, and emergency drills.

11 June

0350-In the Solomon Sea at 8 S 154 14 E lookouts spotted enemy destroyer, turned out to be part of a task force. SJ radar failed to detect them until was just 6000 yards away. Task Force on course 285 est 20 knots. Turned to avoid being sighted and began shadowing. General Quarters. The weather was difficult to put it mildly with heavy swells, wind, and cloud cover, but combined with moonlight provided a glow to the sea an odd light to the night sky. This made moving into firing position difficult for Drum.

0425-Task force is one CA, one CL, 5 DD. Course 283 17 knots. Unable to close to ideal range due to heavy seas limited Drums speed to 18 knots.Opted for long range shot on surface. Contact report sent to CTF-72

0340-Received reply from CTF-72 X ATTACK AND DESTROY X

0439-Task force zigged slightly towards Drum, closing the range. Give this, opted for submerged for attack.

0446 - ATTACK NO.1 - Fired six MK 14 torpedoes. Four at TAKAO CA believed to be the MAYA and two at AGANO CLASS CL. Range:4100/3800 AOB:42/52 POA:MOT (both)

Torpedo depth set to 12 feet due to heavy sea state.

0447- heard four premature detonations of torpedoes.

0448-Two torpedoes hit AGANO CL under forward turrets causing large explosions. Vessel quickly engulfed in flames and began to sink. One torpedo impacted the in the bow of the MAYA. Drum was already in a turn for follow up shot with stern tubes.

0449-Pinging. DD closing. Fired four torpedoes from stern tubes range 2900 yards AOB 110 depth 12 feet.

0450-Agano Class CL 6652 tons sunk 8 S 154 05 E. Three premature explosions heard and observed.

0452-Torpedo impacted amidships of CA as it attempted to comb the wake. Large explosion and fireball. DD at 800 yards closing fast. Ordered 300 ft, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0503-Depth charges but none close. Heavy seas proved an obstacle to enemy ASW efforts.

0600-Lost sound contact with all vessels. Last contact had DD's moving away at high speed.

0800-Periscope depth. Now daylight, observed the CA dead in the weather, decks submerged with the superstructure protruding from the water. Obviously a wreck, but stubbornly refusing to sink, left behind by others. Drum began closing, increased depth to 200 feet to avoid a large enemy flying boat.

0830-Fired two torpedoes to finish off CA. One went into circular run forcing Drum deep. Second impacted but failed to detonate, audible thud heard on sound at time of impact but no explosion.

0836-Back at periscope depth. Fired two more torpedoes rang 600 yards, both impacted. The first torpedo detonated forward magazine setting off large explosions. Ship burning and begin to quickly sink.

0838-Takao Class Heavy Cruiser 9850 tons sunk 7 59 S 154 03 E.

0840-Secured GQ went deep to reload torpedoes and remain submerged for rest of day.

0915-Sound contact warship bearing 040 closing fast. Ordered periscope depth.

1013-Enemy destroyers possibly arriving to hunt for Drum in area of the previous attack.

2100-Surfaced and set course for Milne Bay to reload before proceeding to patrol area.

12 June -

1000-1700-Reloaded torpedoes and topped fuel at Milne Bay. Departed at 1715.

At 1800 Observed a large explosion, apparently a patrol craft wondered into the mine field or struck a loose mine. No survivors observed.

15 June-

0922- 1'3 N 152 54 E- Submerged to avoid closing aircraft at 180.After leveling at 170 feet, three large depth charge explosions.

1240-Surfaced.

16 June-

0603- During morning trim dive to 90 feet, sound detected possible submerged submarine bearing 092 degrees, possibly making an attack approach on Drum prior to trim dive. General Quarters. Drum went to silent running and began approach on contact.

0736 Sound has submerged submarine bearing 013 closing at low speed.

0837-ATTACK NO. 2 Fired one torpedo on sound bearings. Est range 2000 AOB 85. torpedo Depth 50 feet. Drum went to 200 ft. Torpedo missed. Sub continued on. Drum went to 300 feet.

1400-All clear

1450-Surfaced.

19 June-

0300- Received ULTRA. Large loaded tanker departing Woleai 0800 20 June. Plot should Drum could arrive off Woleai by 0500 20 June at 18 knots from present position. Set course for position 40 NM S of Woleai.

20 June-

1000-SJ contacts bearing 355 9 NM.

1002-Smoke spotted on horizon. General Quarters

1007-Large tanker with one escort spotted 060. Est course speed 200 at 16 knots. Contact report sent to CTF-72. Position 6 51 N 143 56 E 50 NM S of Woleai.

1008-Went to 300 feet for high speed run to close range.

1017-Convoy zigged to east according to sound.

1029-Periscope depth. Bearing 000 range 1700 yards Otori Class torpedo boat...trailing is large GENYO MARU class tanker 11800 tons.

1033-ATTACK NO. 2- Fired four MK 14 torpedoes range 1400 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth 15 feet. POA MOT. Target course is 170 14.5 knts. Two premature explosions.

1035-Two torpedoes impacted amidships, setting off massive explosion, obviously the tanker was loaded with fuel. Ship left a flaming wreck, dead in water, sinking.

1038-GENYO MARU 11800 tons sunk 6 52 N 143 56 E. Otori closing fast. Drum to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

1043-Pinging.

1045-DC explosions. Over the new several hours the escort hunted and laid several patterns but the attack was ineffective. Sonar conditions were ideal, so this was surprising.

1600-Lost sonar contact.

2100-Surfaced.

22 June-

0701-SJ contact bearing 270. 9 NM.

0819-Contact is Otori Class TB, possible the escort from the 20 June tanker sinking. Avoided contact.

23 June-7 July-

Continued patrol but made no contacts, except daily patrol aircraft which were never visually sighted. On 25 June received orders to deactivate magnetic features on torpedoes. All torpedoes switched to contact exploders.

8 July-

1507- SJ contact 326 9 NM.

1535-Submerge for attack on enemy TF.

1555- ATTACK NO. 4 Fired four torpedoes at Aoba Class CA. Range 3400 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth 8 ft. POA MOT. target course/speed 025 17 knots. Lead CA is Takao class, led by Asashio DD. Unknown DD trailing.

1557-Torpedo 1 hit vessel amidships but failed to detonate, audible on sound and observed through periscope, confirmed dud. The alerted CA was expertly conned to comb the wakes of remaining torpedoes, with a hard turn to port with full power, causing torpedo 2 just miss the stern. The CA's turn continued to the same course as the approaching torpedoes, torpedo 3 passed down the starboard side at just a few feet, even close enough could have brushed the hull of the CA, as did torpedo 4 on the port side. Following orders from 24 June, magnetic features on all torpedoes were disabled. However, in this instance they likely would have lead to two hits as they passed along side at close enough range to trigger magnetic detonators.

1603-Pinging.Depth charge explosions.

1621- One close depth charge caused serious damage to Drum. Drum was at 375 feet. See Damage section for details.

1650-Lost sound contact with escorts. Once again, it appears those escorting task forces or fast moving convoys do not hunt to destroy an enemy submarine, but merely to hold the sub down while their charges escape. Also possibly they thought Drum was destroyed.

2100-Surface.

9-19 July- patrolled, no contacts.

19 July- Fuel situation necessitated began trek home with a stop at Milne Bay.

23 July-

1500-Arrived Milne Bay, refueled, departed 1900.

24 July- While transiting Jomard Passage, an RAAF PBY attacked Drum in a case of mistaken identity. The SD radar for unknown reasons did not detect the aircraft until was just 5 NM away. A crash dive was ordered and several explosions rocked Drum as she passed 146 feet. The bombing caused minor damage overall. See damage section .

26 July-

1500-Drum docked at Brisbane. Patrol terminated.

(C) Weather
The weather during was overall pleasant but there were periods of storms with heavy seas, cloud cover, and rain.

(D) Tidal Information
In the patrol area, 2° S. currents of one-half knot setting east to southeast were experienced at times.

In the area, westward of the Solomon Islands, from 10° S. to the pass between New Ireland and Buka, currents of 1.0 to 1.5 knots setting southeasterly were encountered.

(E) Navigational Aids
None sighted.

(F) Attack Data

Number of torpedo attacks: 4

Number of gun attacks:0

Number of torpedoes expended:23

Vessels sunk by torpedo:

Date: Time: Type/Class/Name Tonnage: Location:

6/11/1943 0450 Agano Class CL 6652 8 S 154 05 E

6/11/1943 0838 Takao Class CA 8650 7 59 S 154 03 E

6/20/1943 1038 GENYO MARU AO 11800 6 52 N 143 56 E

Vessels sunk by gunfire:

None.

(H) Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics

Compared to past patrols, the enemy ASW was mostly inefficient. The Otori Class torpedo boat, a class which has a nasty reputation among submariners, proved to be ineffective and not persistent during the 20 June counter attack.

The ASW efforts in the attack of 11 June were hindered by the heavy seas. However, their giving up quickly has been something have encountered last few patrols, as escorts and DD's in particular tasked with guarding warships or important fast transports tend to put the efforts in to keep a submarine deep and unable to track or attack their charges, provided the fast moving vessels times to get away before they speed up to rejoin. This is different than when attacking a slow or moderate speed convoy.

The counter attack of 8 July was more determined, forcing Drum deep to get under the enemy's sonar and charges in ideal sonar conditions. However, they again gave up far too soon to rejoin their charges. Drum was damaged but by no means eliminated.

Enemy air patrols were consistent with previous forays into the area, with SD contacts in the morning, most evenings, occasionally during the day.

Only one surface patrol was encountered, this was after the Solomon Sea attack on 11 June. The Otori encountered on 22 June south of Truk heading for Rabaul is believed to the escort of the tanker sunk on 20 June, en route to the destination.

(I) Major Defects and Damage

Drum suffered serious but manageable damage from a close depth charge on 8 July. Drum was at 375 feet and moving in a "burst" of speed at 9 knots as a enemy DD was overhead. Approximately a minute after last of a series of splashes were heard, four DC explosions occurred, followed by two more. The seventh and last, apparently landed close to Drum just aft of amidships at an unknown but close range and depth.

Most serious damage was a leak in the crew berthing area. The damage control team went into action and leak was stopped with minimal amount of water taken on. However, this put Drum out of trim an did sink to 430 feet before using additional speed helped stabilize the depth. The flooding was stopped and water pumped out.

The conning tower suffered leaks in air and water lines, which were repaired. The starboard prop shaft was damaged along with after batteries. All damage repaired within 48 hours.

Drum suffered additional damage from a "friendly fire" incident with an RAAF Catalina in the Jomard Passage on 24 July.

As Drum passed 140 feet, a series of explosions rocked here. Air and water lines throughout boat but including conning tower began to leak. Periscopes, sonar and sound gear, TDC, SJ radar, all damaged.

Upon surfacing, discovered the fore, aft, and aft deck 20 MM guns damage as well as the 4 inch 50 cal gun. Inspection revealed minor hull damage as well.

Defects-

Torpedo reliability remains an issue. Of twenty-three torpedoes expended, over half were defective with prematurely exploding torpedoes , duds, and a circle runner.

Defective torpedoes on 8 July most certainly costs Drum the sinking at a minimum serious damage of an enemy heavy cruiser as had it exploded properly, the ship would not have been able to so precisely maneuver to avoid the other three.

The order to deactivate the magnetic influence exploders on torpedoes dated 24 June was happily received. It is hoped that with these features deactivated. The occurrence of duds is concerning but likely related to the faulty exploders.

No known depth control issues were noticed with torpedoes on this patrol.

(J) Radio

Radio function as excellent throughout patrol.

(K) Radar function was mediocre to poor on this patrol, especially compared to previous patrols. The SJ failed to detect enemy task force before lookouts visually spotted it at 6000 yards on 11 June. At times it seemed to have trouble maintaining contact at distance more than 6 NM .

The Improved model of the SD radar, which worked great the previous patrol failed to detect an aircraft at the usual 12-15 NM on 15 June, instead detecting at 6 NM. This resulting the Drum being bombed but was able to submerge in time. A second failure on 24 July did not detect the RAAF Catalina until it was 5.5 NM away., resulting in a delayed dive and damage from a bombing.

(L) Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

Sound conditions were generally satisfactory for most of patrol. The excellent performance detected the submerged enemy submarine during the routine morning trim dive at a greater distance than originally thought.

(M) Thermal layers

Thermal layers were encountered at 191, 201, 155, 85, and 315 feet during the patrol.

(N) Health and Habitability

Crew health and morale remained excellent through the patrol. However, morale and rest levels did decline as patrol went on with no contacts aside from pesky aircraft. Torpedo failures and enduring counter attacks certainly do no improve heath of the crew. . No crew were injured during the patrol.

(O) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Brisbane to Area 1965 Miles 17405 Gallons
In Area 5565 Miles 38483 Gallons
Area to Brisbane 1951 Miles 19823 Gallons
Total 9481 Miles 75711 Gallons

(P) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 9
Days in Area 33
Days Enroute to Brisbane 8
Days Submerged 4

(Q) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Torpedoes 15
Fuel 17694 Gallons
Provisions 0
Water 14 days
Personnel 0
Limiting Factor This Patrol: Fuel and Orders of Commander TF-72.

(R) Comments

A successful patrol with two major enemy warships and major oil tanker sunk. However, torpedo performance cost the destruction or at least serious damage of another enemy cruiser. The Drum was also once again endangered by a circular running torpedo. The deactivation and hopeful replacement of the magnetic exploders gives hope these issues are resolved by Drum's next patrol.

The lack of merchant contacts in the latter half of the patrol was unusual for this area, it is possible the Truk-Rabaul area shipping lanes have been changed.

https://i.postimg.cc/47yV5XTk/Agano-CLexplode.png (https://postimg.cc/47yV5XTk) Agano class CL explodes from torpedo hits 11 June 1943

https://i.postimg.cc/D4bG95Zx/Takao-Coupdegrace.png (https://postimg.cc/D4bG95Zx) Takao class CA exploding after coup de grace morning of 11 June 1943.

https://i.postimg.cc/TLsmNBRy/takaodamged.png (https://postimg.cc/TLsmNBRy) After evading escorts all night, coming back to periscope depth in the morning, finding the crippled CA hull down, decks awash but stubbornly afloat, dead in water after two torpedo hits five hours before.

https://i.postimg.cc/xqkLNjRL/tankergoingup.png (https://postimg.cc/xqkLNjRL) 11800 ton loaded GENYO MARU tanker exploding after two torpedoes impacted.

https://i.postimg.cc/HjfXwGZR/Torpedobarelymisses.png (https://postimg.cc/HjfXwGZR) 8 July 1943. One dud(lower right hand corner), CA was expertly conned after the dud hit, one missed far to port due to the turn, other two came so close down sides the scraped lol. This was after magnetic features disabled, so no hits. Magnetic exploders likely would have went off being so close to target.

This has patrol left contacts for map on, but had external camera off.

Kal_Maximus_U669

07-04-21, 01:03 PM

Uss Seawolf... April 1942..
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/26/7/1625421516-sh4img-2021-07-04-01-07-12-513.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/26/7/1625421523-sh4img-2021-07-04-01-06-41-460.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/26/7/1625421529-sh4img-2021-07-04-01-08-11-338.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/26/7/1625421544-sh4img-2021-07-04-16-33-48-451.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/26/7/1625421601-sh4img-2021-07-04-16-47-40-950.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/26/7/1625421616-sh4img-2021-07-04-18-36-27-156.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/26/7/1625421634-sh4img-2021-07-04-18-25-31-930.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/26/7/1625421645-sh4img-2021-07-04-18-26-25-892.png
:salute::salute::salute:

propbeanie

07-05-21, 09:29 AM

Oooh-ooh... pretty... :salute:

KaleunMarco

07-05-21, 09:56 AM

https://i.ibb.co/fHss6q0/SH4-Img-2021-07-02-19-21-35-320.png

Bubblehead1980

07-05-21, 01:29 PM

Bubblehead1980

07-06-21, 04:23 AM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods

100 difficulty. No contacts, no cams.

USS Drum SS-228
Seventh War Patrol
16 August- 6 October 1943

Assigned Area-Palau-Wewak-Rabaul shipping lanes

(A) Prologue

Returned from sixth war patrol 26 July 1943. Normal refit by the Submarine Repair Unit, assisted by U.S.S. FULTON, at Brisbane, Australia. Ready for sea: 16 August 1943.

(B) Narrative

16 August-

0930-Departed Brisbane en route patrol area via Milne Bay.

1130-Trim dive.

26 August-

0006-SJ contact 026 9 NM.

0009-General Quarters. Night surface torpedo

0024-One troopship est 6000 tons, one DD. Contact Report sent to CTF-72. Position 1 06 S 141 05 E Course 343 Speed 10 knots.

0028-Reply from CTF-72. Attack. Escorts should be attacked if possible.

0037-ATTACK NO. 1 Fired four MK 14 torpedoes. Target 1: KITRUIN MARU AP(3 torpedoes) Target 2 Minekaze Class DD (1 torpedo) Range :2400/2000 AOB 70/100 Torpedo depth 10 ft/3 ft POA MOT

Torpedo 1 impacted AP but was a confirmed dud. Torpedoes 2 and 3 impacted causing heavy damage. Torpedo 4 missed the DD just astern as it sped up after torpedo hit the first target. Drum illuminated by star shells and searchlight. DD turning after Drum, firing deck guns. two close splashes off bow. Ordered dive to 300 ft. Rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0038-KITRUIN MARU 6783 tons sunk 106 S 141 08 E.

0119-Close DC. Heavy damage reported in forward torpedo room.(See damage section). Damage control team assigned. Flooding reported.

0123-Flooding reported under control.

0151- Sound contact fading. Believe contact is "sleeping" trying to listen. Drum depth is 500 ft.

0230-Drum back at 350 ft.

0500-Radar depth: SJ contact 194 8 NM>

0502-Surfaced. Secured GQ.

0505-Inspection shows damage to torpedo tubes of varying degrees. Torpedo tube # 2 inoperable, under repair.

0800-Storms. Heavy seas, wind, medium fog, light rain

29 August-

1039-SD contact 16 NM. 0 50 S 140 50 E. Submerged

1300-Surfaced

1 September-

1431-SD contact 11 NM closing. Submerged. 2 S 142 0 E

1627-Surfaced.

28 August-
0100-Repairs on torpedo tube #2 complete. Tube is operational again.

5 September-

0524-Spotted three sampans ahead. Trailing for dawn gun action.

0540-General Quarters Battle Surface Gun Action

0610 - BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION. Approached from astern Commenced firing.

0624-Ceased fire. One large two medium sampans sunk by gun fire at 1 45 S 140 46 E. 80 tons (estimated) each.

5 September-27 September-

Patrolled assigned area with no contacts, aside from occasional SD contact at long range.

30 September-

0214-SJ contacts bearing 356 9 NM.

0221-General Quarters- Night surface torpedo.

0229-Contact report sent to CTF-72 Convoy sighted. Position: 2 23 S 143 31 E Est speed 8 knots est. course 261.

0238- Convoy course is 261 8.5 knots in two columns with five ships one known escort. Escort is Chidori or Otori type. Merchants are all AK of mid to large size.

0253 - ATTACK NO. 2 Range:2400/2300 AOB:70/95 POA MOT, Fore, Aft, MOT Torpedo Depth:10 ft.

0255- three torpedoes hit first target setting it afire. Three torpedoes hit second target, all confirmed duds. Convoy opened up with gunfire as Drum fled NE at high speed.

0300-SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons sunk 2 25 S 140 46 E. Escort attempted to close Drum at high speed but unable to locate, slowed and began searching.

0354-Enemy escort is depth charging, convinced Drum had submerged. Drum on surface closing for follow up attack on surface with stern tubes.

0414- ATTACK NO 3. Fired four MK 14 from stern tubes on surface. Range: 1900 yards AOB 85 POA MOT. Four torpedoes hit SEIA MARU setting fires and causing list.

0416-SEIA MARU 7590 tons sunk. 2 26 S 143 24 E

0430-Secured GQ. Reloading torpedoes. End around for dawn submerged attack. Fuel is limiting factor as have just enough to move ahead for attack. Due to depart op area 0000 1 October.

0737-Regained SJ contact. General Quarters

0744-Smoke sighted bearing 054.

0820-Convoy zigged south west

0833-Submerge for attack.

0912-2000 yards off convoy track course 261. Escort is roughly 8000 yards astern of convoy, possibly checking out a false contact or guarding for a rear approach. This is fortunate as left convoy unguarded.

0923- ATTACK NO. 4 Range 900 yards AOB 90 Torpedo Depth 10 ft POA MOT MOT Fore mast, Aft mast. Four torpedoes fired, four impacts. Ship decimated. HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 tons sunk 2 23 S 143 31 E

0924- ATTACK NO 4a Range 900 yards AOB 85 Torpedo depth 10 ft POA MOT Fired two MK 14 torpedoes as trailing ship presented a favorable set up after hits on HAKUSIKA MARU. Both torpedoes hit the zigging target. RYUNN MARU class freighter crippled listing to starboard, large fire amidships, engine noises ceased. Moving to position for coup de grace with stern tubes if needed, all bow tubes expended.

0926-Sound check has escort closing from medium range, all clear.

0936- While moving into position. Crew of crippled freighter, in spite of list and fires fired at Drum's periscope with deck gun.

0937- Sound: Warship closing fast bearing 221 long range.

0939-Fired one MK 14 torpedo Range 700 yards AOB 90 MOT depth 6 ft. torpedo impacted. ship quickly completed its roll to starboard. RYUNN MARU 6538 tons sunk 2 16 S 142 56 E.

0942-Enemy escort sighted bearing 130 estimated range 6600 yards , closing. Drum to 300 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge. Remaining enemy AK on zig course 261 unable to attack.

0950- DD on scene, pinging dropping charges astern, none close.

1010-DD overhead.

1011-While Drum was at a depth of 350 feet, a large, close pattern of depth charges caused heavy damage(see damage section). Flooding reported in forward torpedo and control room.

1018-Flooding reported under control in forward torpedo and control room . Forward dive planes inoperable.

1300-After several hours of evasion, lost contact with enemy.

1353-Secured GQ maintained silent running.

1833-Periscope depth. Clouds overcast, light fog, light chop to seas.

1935-Radar depth. SJ and SD sweep. All clear.

1845-Surfaced.

1848-Set course for Brisbane. Inspection shows boat has heavy damage (see damage section).

2 October-

0345- cleared Vitiaz Strait

6 October-

1800-Docked Brisbane. Terminated patrol.

(C) Weather
The area between the north coast of New Guinea and the Admiralty Islands \was generally favorable for most of the patrol, with the occasional squall popping up. The average winds were force two, predominantly southeast to southwest. Most days the sea were calm and glassy or has a light chop.

(D) Tidal Information
Variable currents up to one knot, setting southeast to southwest were noted well off the coast of New Guinea, south of the Admiralty Islands.

(E) Navigational Aids
None sighted.

(F) Attack

Vessels sunk by torpedo:

Date Time Ship Tons Location

9/5/1943 0038 KITRUIN MARU 6783 106 S 141 08 E

9/30/1943 0300 SHAJIMA MARU 6450 2 25 S 140 46 E

9/30/1943 0416 SEIA MARU 7590 2 26 S 143 24 E

9/30/1943 0923 HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 2 23 S 143 31 E

9/30/1943 0939 RYUNN MARU 6538 2 16 S 142 56 E

Vessels sunk by gunfire

9/5/1943 0624 Sampan x 3 80 (each) 1 45 S 140 46 E. 80 tons.

(G) Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics

Enemy ASW skill and efforts have definitely showed improvement with both depth charge attacks endured on this patrol causing heavy damage. Enemy active and passive sonar gear seems improved in ability and when combined with ideal sound conditions to gain and maintain contact on submerged submarines.

Enemy escorts are now typically equipped with both depth charge racks and throwers, enabling them to lay impressive patterns.

A noticeable enemy tactic is to "fake" a depth charge run coming from astern at high speed and not drop, but then to quickly turn in front of the submarine's expected path, in a version of "Crossing the T", laying patterns ahead and on top of the the submarine with racks and throwers.

Enemy seems to have implemented a convoy system as no unescorted vessels were encountered nor have been in last couple of patrols. Convoys typically consist of four to six vessels in two parallel columns with roughly 1000 yards between ships. Typically, there are two escorts, which make sweeping movements ahead and astern, often unexpected radical runs to the flanks.

While enemy tactics and weaponry to counter submerged attack have been improved, the night surface torpedo attack has proven quite effective. The enemy's apparent lack of surface search radar, combined with the darkness of the night and lack of escorts covering the flanks from which attacks are carried out, permits these attacks. Naturally, for a proper shot, submarine must close to 3000-2500 yards on the surface . The risk of gunfire, especially after illumination by star shells and searchlights from both escorts and the armed (often heavily) merchants, as well as possible ramming provides a certain amount of risk as well.

No surface patrols were encountered on this patrol. No patrol aircraft were sighted, with just a limited number of SD contacts.

Evasion on this patrol was fairly standard for the Drum. Depths of 300-400 feet with constant turns being conducted with 5-10 degrees rudder, silent running at 80 rpm, 50 at times, with max speed bursts when appropriate to get out from under depth charges and make radical course changes.

During the depth charge attack on 26 August, Drum was forced to a depth of 500 feet. Flooding caused the initial descent with leveling off at 475 feet, but when contact seemed to have a lock on Drum, eased down to 500 on next run and with a speed burst. At this depth, the enemy had difficulty tracking Drum. Once felt had shaken the escort, went back to 350 feet for safety and was able to slip away.

During the depth charging of 30 September, Drum was at 350 feet, having just slowed from a burst of speed when a well placed pattern ahead caused heavy damage, including flooding. Drum descended to 401 feet before backing full was able to level boat off and counter flooding. The forward dive planes were found to be inoperable, which made controlling the boat and evasion difficult. Drum was forced to endure several more patterns while conducting repairs and backing at moderate to high speeds. This seemed to confuse the enemy as their patterns were off mark each time.

Eventually, with flooding curtailed and water pumped, was able to control Drum better and maintained depth of 375 feet for rest of the evasion.

(H) Major Defects and Damage

The attack of 26 August caused serious damage to Drum. with forward torpedo room taking the brunt. Flooding and opening of sea vales causing moderate flooding in forward torpedo room. WCA sound gear and sonar head hoists were damaged.

All six forward torpedo tubes suffered heavy damage, with number two left completely inoperable for two days. All tubes were repaired following this attack over next 72 hours.

Air and water lines in conning tower and control room were leaking but repaired.

The depth charge attack of 30 September caused serious damage, much of which could not be repaired at sea.

A very close and large pattern caused leaks and flooding in forward torpedo room and control room. The damage control party were able to quell the flooding quickly and have water pumped out in just over an hour.

All six forward torpedo tubes were damaged beyond repair at sea. All forward torpedoes were expended at this point. Inspection revealed outer doors blown away.

The forward dive planes transmission was damaged beyond repair and thus the dive planes were rendered inoperable. This made evasion difficult let alone normal submerged operations.

The radio receiver was heavily damaged and was not able to be repaired before arriving back at Brisbane.

Inspection upon surfacing showed the 4 inch 50 cal deck gun to be heavily damaged and inoperable, along with the forward 20 MM mount. The aft and aft deck mounts were undamaged. Repairs were attempted but not completed before arriving back at Brisbane.

Most concerning is the apparent hull damage. Drum's hull was compromised by an estimated 20-21 percent.

Torpedo performance was greatly improved on this patrol. With the magnetic features of torpedo exploders disabled, premature detonations have been eliminated. All torpedoes appeared to run at set depth. As an attempt to prevent duds, care was taken to fire for torpedo impact at acute angles when possible per message received from CTF-72 on 18 August. 21 torpedoes were fired this patrol, with four confirmed duds.

(I) Radio

Radio equipment worked fine until the 30 September attack when the equipment, the receiver in particular was damaged and unable to be repaired before returning to Brisbane.

(J) Radar

SJ radar performance was improved this patrol. Contacts were typically detected at 8..5-9 NM. There remains a tendency of radar contact to weaken and at times to lose contact when at an AOB l to target ess then 75 or greater than 100. SJ radar has proven vital during night surface torpedo attacks.

SD radar performed well detecting contacts typically at 13-14 NM.

(K) Sound

Sound conditions were generally ideal, a blessing and a burden. The conditions permit Drum to easily track targets, but also enables the enemy's ASW efforts.

(L) Density Layers

Thermal layers were detected between 190 and 311 feet.

(M) Health , Morale, and Habitability.

Crew performance and morale was overall excellent. Those assigned to the forward torpedo room had a bit of a rough go at this time out, battle flooding twice and other serious damage in their compartment. Fortunately, all injuries were minor. One crewman was treated for battle fatigue as the events of 30 September left him shaken. Within a few days he returned to his normal duties. However, he was detached from the Drum upon return to port.

(N) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Brisbane to Area 2776.2 Miles 24288 Gallons
In Area 2390.4 Miles 10590 Gallons
Area to Brisbane 2530.0 Miles 33057 Gallons
Total 7696.6 Miles 67935 Gallons

(O) Duration

Total duration: 50 days

Days in patrol area: 34

Days en route to patrol area:10

Days en route to Brisbane: 6.5

Note: Transit Vitiaz Strait en route home in lieu of crossing north of Admiralty Islands and down the east coast of New Ireland, which cut transit time off. Given Drum's material state and given the chance of no encountering significant enemy forces in the straits, opted for the route , which could transit in one night.

(P) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Heavy damage
Torpedoes Remaining: 3-all stern.
Fuel: 17694 gallons

1 October was already scheduled departure date from patrol area.

(Q) Remarks

A challenging and ultimately successful patrol with five enemy merchant vessels sunk, as well as three sampans. The amount of time between the first ship sunk on 26 August and the last on 30 September, with no shipping contacts (aside from sampans) in between along these normally busy but ill defined shipping lanes leads me to believe the enemy changed their routes for most of September to avoid submarine attack, switching back towards the end, which routed the convoy encountered on 30 September into Drum's lap as had set course to the east to return to Brisbane.

Improved torpedo performance has greatly improved morale and ability to properly dispatch enemy shipping.

KaleunMarco

07-06-21, 08:12 AM

A challenging and ultimately successful patrol with five enemy merchant vessels sunk, as well as three sampans. The amount of time between the first ship sunk on 26 August and the last on 30 September, with no shipping contacts (aside from sampans) in between along these normally busy but ill defined shipping lanes leads me to believe the enemy changed their routes for most of September to avoid submarine attack, switching back towards the end, which routed the convoy encountered on 30 September into Drum's lap as had set course to the east to return to Brisbane.

over the years as i played this game i have noticed its tendency to not spawn groups after certain dates, like September 1.

September 1 is the starting effective date of the traffic files....convoys and task forces.
I think that SH4 gets itself lost when the player is on a career-mission and that date passes. traffic seems to disappear. i say again: this is an SH4 issue not a modder issue.

i can't prove anything but it sure seems to be true over thousands of missions.

anyway, nice patrol log. i wonder how you have time and consciousness to keep a detailed log while you are playing the game and then living Real Life as well, with all of its "distractions".
:Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

07-06-21, 02:15 PM

over the years as i played this game i have noticed its tendency to not spawn groups after certain dates, like September 1.

September 1 is the starting effective date of the traffic files....convoys and task forces.
I think that SH4 gets itself lost when the player is on a career-mission and that date passes. traffic seems to disappear. i say again: this is an SH4 issue not a modder issue.

i can't prove anything but it sure seems to be true over thousands of missions.

anyway, nice patrol log. i wonder how you have time and consciousness to keep a detailed log while you are playing the game and then living Real Life as well, with all of its "distractions".
:Kaleun_Salute:

Drum's real patrol logs:

https://www.drum228.org/patrols.html

Ah yea just writing the reports up in fashion of the patrol reports have read on Drum and others (see link below)

I like keeping a log of important events during patrol, interesting to look back and has helped with modding as well. Figured reports like this may help others, especially newer players on patrol, kind of way real life skippers learned by reading patrol reports.

Time wise, well the events in the report take place over many days real time, so have plenty of time for my real life lol. I leave the sim running, check on it when home. During patrol, I just jot down the important details such as attack data in notepad and then punch up the report en route back to base. Since have to run the sim at somewhat low time compression to make sure don't miss contacts and keep the weather stable, plenty of time to do other things as well. Also, campaign is how I test because its difficult to replicate exact conditions in a single mission. Campaign is the focus of my mod so I've played through the war, played different periods, different areas etc to check. Time consuming but its a marathon not a race. Actually going on vacation end of the month so will be away from for a few weeks . I delayed releasing my update for TMO to work a few more things out, refine some things, but plan to release before I go walkabout:Kaleun_Salute:

You are correct sir. The traffic delay I encountered was primarily because of the "dead zone" that occurs when the new layers take over. The 42b layers cover 8/1/1942-8/31/1943.So if convoys have a 25 percent chance of spawning every five days (120 hours) it will be at least September 5th( noticed sometimes the next day) before they spawn then with a low chance, it can be a few days.

I modified how convoys spawned, the "feeder" convoys on the less major routes are set to the random defaults, slightly decreased in frequency so have a more realistic amount of traffic. The major routes to ensure consistent but realistic traffic rates taking into account the time period. In most places I added convoys that spawn once at are set to ensure consistent but realistic traffic rate based on the time period. Obviously there are way more convoys running in Fall 1943-Spring 1944 than in mid 1942 when convoys were not the norm for the japanese. Fall 1943 they actually formed an escort command at the fleet level to coordinate escorts. This is now reflected in TMO, fall 43 start seeing actual convoys and their compositions changed. Typical early war convoy of haphazard years are 3-4 ships with one escort, sometimes may have two. Rarely three, three would denote an important group of ships. This is based off research have done, reading of many patrol reports indicating changes over time.

I don't mind the dead periods though, a lot of submarine warfare was sailing about for weeks at a time until found target, especially in the open ocean areas. Forces player to really hunt for targets. I've ensured the traffic is there, player just has to find it. As mentioned in the report, August 26 my was first attack, the next time found shipping to torpedo was 30 September, as was departing assigned area. This happened a bit in real life, weeks in area with nothing then boom found a big convoy at last minute.Added an element of excitement, a nothing patrol can turn into an excellent one. Only had the fuel to pursue and attack for short time, had to attack then. Plenty of torpedoes aboard.

I alluded to changing of convoy routes in my report. I did this as it did happen in real life. Japanese would suffer a lot of losses on one route and change the route for a while, then switch back after time for things to calm down. To a degree I have this implemented in the campaign. The traffic lanes do shift from time to time then shift back, especially as war goes on when convoy routes became more defined. Aggravating as this sim can be, amazing what can be done.

One area that comes to mind is Area 5 off Honshu. They suffered heavy losses in that area in late 43 and early 44, then the area went dead for quite a while, reports by subs assigned there as no traffic. Lockwood sent Tang there in August 1944. The Japanese had quit running convoys offshore in that area, in deeper waters, but instead were running shipping 2-3 ships at a time with plenty of escorts, close to shore from port to port during the day...talking few thousand yards off the beach, thus why the area seemed dead. Obviously this makes patrolling a challenge. Trying to replicate what Tang did in the area is fun but a challenge. Air and surface patrols almost daily, shallow waters, even the coastal pc type escorts can kill you in the shallows. Later in war, there is a coastal minefield (submerged and surfaced) they hide behind. It is one of the most challenging areas to patrol in TMO but with discretion, proper tactics, quite possible to turn out a solid patrol there.

I will say though the traffic in the area was a little too dead. The Palau-Wewak-Rabaul shipping lanes early 1943-early 1944, were busy as were supplying the Solomons and New Guinea forces , so prboably going to probably adjust it a little.

Strykr

07-07-21, 08:12 PM

Bubblehead1980

07-07-21, 11:13 PM

Currently reading "Thunder Below" by Admiral Fluckey, and I am trying to duplicate his brilliant night surface attack on a Japanese convoy in the Formosa Straits, while operating as part of a 3 Boat Wolfpack in January 1945.
He approaches from 10,000 yards astern, and slips in between the escorts, firing at, and sinking, the rear merchant from a range of 2150 yards. He is not done at that point, but I cant re-write the book!!!
He describes the night as dark, the only light from the stars, and the ships appeared as indistinguishable blobs.

Conveniently.... my latest TMO save, was a convoy contact report as the sun was going down.
Weather is clear, no fog, wind at 4 mps.

On my first attempt, I went in SJ radar blasting. I cant say I was detected, but the escorts seemed to be attracted, or interested in my location.
I made it to within 1450 yards of the escorts, and 2650 to the rear merchant I was targeting .....and was LIT UP. Lol

https://i.postimg.cc/6qWWfTJY/Screenshot-414.png (https://postimg.cc/Pp7ntXqw)

https://i.postimg.cc/L5xHCRmR/Screenshot-415.png (https://postimages.org/)

On my second attempt, I turned off the SJ, and it appeared the escorts maintained a more relaxed formation. I was able to close to within 2000 yards of the rear merchant, and fired tubes 1,2,3.
The MOMENT they hit, I was again LIT UP, and forced to crash dive.

https://i.postimg.cc/qBwMMcyY/Screenshot-416.png[/ur

[url=https://postimg.cc/z39yJW30]https://i.postimg.cc/KvYBDDbS/Screenshot-420.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/5Nk48xPS/Screenshot-418.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/dVbJS5c7/Screenshot-419.png (https://postimages.org/)

I "Attempt" to adjust the Graphic settings, and my monitor, to match my crews visual sighting to mine.
My Mod List is "Bubblehead Heavy" and it works well. Thanks Bubblehead1980 !!! :Kaleun_Salute:

1_TriggerMaru_Overhaul_2-5
1_TMO_25_small_patch
ClemsonClassDD
Better US Crew and Player Rank Fix
IJN_Radar_Fix_2
Select Your Sub
TMO_Sample_Emblem
No Flags on subsV1.2
GatoLadder
Nav Map Make-Over v2.1
NMMO Airbase Add-on
NMMO v2.1 Patch 1 with AB
NMMO Maps Add-on
Bigger Better Protractors
410 Rockin Robbins EZ Plot V2.0
TheDarkWraith_DC_Water_Disturbance_v2_0_SH4
UPCUPGRADES+betterhuntersV1.2
Stop The Shouting
RealScopesV2
TMONewDepthChargesType2
TGT DIALS TO PK FIX - TMO
DarkerNightsEnv_V2
TMO17_19_different_smoke

Great book, Thunder Below. Such an exciting read. Well done, glad you are enjoying the mods. Did the gunfire hit you or just come close? Not sure is lit up is implying they put searchlights on you, shot you full of holes or both? lol. Did you survive the depth charging after diving?

Nice to be able to pull off realistic night surface attacks eh ? I plan on releasing my update which has updated versions of my mods for TMO in couple weeks before go on vacation( was end of June but refining a few things) and night surface attacks are even better now. I added some of the large almost allied style convoys japanese were deploying in spring summer, most of fall 1944, player can under the right conditions, get inside the columns and wreak havoc.

Also added a lot of the historical convoys/warships etc such as those Fluckey, O Kane, etc attacked, they show up at historic time and location of the engagement. They only spawn once and compositions are as historically accurate as possible within game. Can even try to pull off Fluckey's Namkwan Harbor raid in January 1945. , the convoys are there at anchor, escorts patrolling. Challenging but fun and can pull it off almost minute by minute according to his book.

Bubblehead1980

07-08-21, 04:20 AM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
100 difficulty cams and contacts off.

Note: In the real eight war patrol of Drum, the conning tower was cracked by depth charges, leading its replacement at Mare Island from January-March 1944.With no Gato conning towers available at the time, the Drum was fitted with a Balao class conning tower, a unique arrangement.

Like the previous patrols of the Drum I have documented, I have patrolled the same areas, taken same routes etc. as Drum did during the war and most have had near the same duration. On this patrol my conning tower did take damage from a depth charge, somewhat mirroring reality.

USS Drum SS-228
Eight War Patrol
2 November- 7 December 1943
Patrol Area: South-West of Caroline Islands in Palau-Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes.

(A) Prologue

Returned from seventh war patrol 6 October, 1943. Normal refit by the Submarine Repair Unit at Brisbane, Australia. Docked for application of Measure 32 paint scheme ,22-23 October, 1943. Commander D.F. Williamson relieved LCDR B.F. McMahon as Commanding Officer. Ready for sea: 2 November, 1943.

(B) Narrative

2 November-

1100-Departed Brisbane for patrol area via Tulagi.

6 November-

0708-1100-Refueled at Tulagi.

7 November-

1630- SD contact 9 NM. 3 38 S 156 39 E. Submerged to avoid aircraft.

1900-Surfaced.

13 November-

0412- SJ contact bearing 000 9 NM. 3 53 N 138 46 E

0416-General Quarters.

0429-Convoy zigged to east.

0445-Submerged for attack. Moonlight too plentiful for surface attack

0522 - ATTACK NO. 1 Target: AK KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons Range: 1000 AOB: 85 Torpedo Depth: 10ft POA MOT, Fore, Aft Fired 3 MK 14 torpedoes. All impacted as aimed. Ship burning bow to ster. listing

0526- ATTACK NO 1(a) Fired two MK 14 at large troopship in second column range 1400 yards AOB 80. Depth 10 ft. POA MOT. Both torpedoes hit.

0528-ATTACK NO 1(b) Fired one MK 14 at mid sized freighter identified as KINOPASAN MARU. Range 600 yards AOB 80 as crossed Drum's bow. One hit in stern area.

0529- KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons sunk 3 52 N 138 54 E

0530- HORAI MARU 9549 tons sunk 3 53 N 138 54 east. Troop transport.

0532-Escort spotted 330 4000 yards closing fast. Ordered 300 fett, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0534-0645-Both escorts made multiple runs on Drum, a few close depth charges with no damage reported. Drum pushed to 395 feet to get under the enemy sonar and charges.

Last attack was 0645.

0650-One escort heard speeding away to NE at high speed, likely to rejoin convoy. Lost contact with other. possibly "sleeping" listening for Drum. Drum on course 270 at 395 feet and 2 knots. Maintained silent running.

0730-Secure GQ.

0900-Periscope depth.

0905-Surfaced for end around.

0914- SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged.

0935-1200-Attempted to surface for end around multiple times. One, then two large flying boats patrolled the general area continuously covering the convoy. Submerged to 300 feet.

2100- Surfaced

22 November-

1130- SJ contact 9 NM. 3 17 N 141 24 E

1131- Smoke plumes from convoy spotted on horizon bearing 015. General Quarters.

1135- Convoy estimated course 151 degrees at 7 knots.

1220-Convoy zigged to SW thwarting set up as was about to dive.

1237-Convoy course 195 degrees 7 knots

1246-Submerge for attack. Contact report sent to CTF-72. Convoy sighted 3'3 N 141 19 E course 195 speed 8 knots.

1250-Reply from CTF-72 received as descending deep for high speed run to attack position. X ATTACK X

1300-Periscope depth. Convoy zigged east. Ruined the setup. Drum turned to close at high speed for possible shot from 4000-5000 yards.

1315- Convoy at 5600 yards course 135 8 knots.

1330-ATTACK NO 2 Target: RYUNN MARU class AK 6538 tons. Fired three Mk 14 on high speed setting. Range 3980 yards AOB 80 Torpedo Depth: 6 feet POA MOT.

1332-Two torpedoes missed astern. One impacted stern. Target possibly disabled closing for coup de grace.

1338- ATTACK NO 2(b) Closed to 2100 yards at target which was drifting at less than half a knot. Fired one MK 14 set for 6 feet. POA MOT. Type A Etorofu class escort closing in at high speed 020 degrees 3000 yards. Rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1339-As Drum passed 226 feet heard a torpedo impact. Confirmed by sound. Audible through hull.

1343- Enemy closed to 500 yards before pinging briefly. Passed overhead dropping large pattern. Drum descended to 350 ft.

1344-Sounds of ship sinking breaking up. RYUNN MARU 6538 tons sunk 3 04 N 141 20 E.

1347-Close depth charges. Boat shaken.

1359-Forward engine room reports minor damage (See damage section)

1404-Close explosions, damage reported. Pressure and water line leaks. Damage in forward engine and control room. (See damage section)

1444-Several charges close. Boat shaken. Forward torpedo reports minor damage(see damage section)

1514-Close explosion. Damage reported in aft battery.

1540-Last depth charge. Both enemy escorts sped away at high speed to rejoin convoy.

1935-Periscope depth. Dark fallen. all clear.

1943-Surfaced. Began reload, battery recharge and end around for night surface attack.

2314-Regained SJ contact. Bearing 357 9 NM. General Quarters Surface Attack-Torpedo

2345-Battery charge completed. Convoy zigged to SE.

23 November-

0008-Contact report sent to CTF-72. Convoy sighted 2 35 N 141 27 E Course 135 degrees speed 8 knots.

0011-Received reply from CTF-72. X ATTACK X

0025- Convoy zigged towards Drum. Sped away as shot was ruined.

0034- Convoy now on course 185 7 knots

0052 - ATTACK NO. 3 Fired four MK 14 torpedoes from stern tubes, two per target. Range: 2000/2300 AOB 90/80 Torpedo depth 8 ft POA MOT. One torpedo suffered apparent guidance failure and did not track to second target but went for first. All others ran normal.

0053-Torpedoes 1,2,3 hit trailing freighter. Setting it afire. Torpedo 4 hit middle freighter, causing large explosion and fire.

0055-MOMOYAMA MARU 4100 tons sunk 2 34 N 141 24 E. 4031 tons.

0056- SHAJIMA MARU freighter burning but underway.

0057-0554-Multiple attempts t close targets failed due to radical convoy movements and escorts. Rising half moon provided illumination. Worked into position by 0555.

0555-Submerged for attack due to morning twilight.

0606- ATTACK NO 3 (Continued) fired two MK 14 torpedoes from stern tubes. Range 1200 AOB 70 depth 8 ft POA MOT.

0607-Both torpedoes hit target, previously damage in ATTACK NO. 3. SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons sunk 2 27 N 141 30 E.

Escort closing, ordered 350 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0612-Pinging.

0614-Escort overhead. Depth charge explosions.

0733-Close explosions. Aft battery reports damage.

0821- Close Dc. forward battery damage. Damage in conning tower and control room (see damage section)

1050-Last depth charge. Escorts left area at high speed.

1144-Secure GQ. Maintained silent running.

1526-Surfaced for end around and attack after charging batteries and repairs.

24 November-

0022-Unable to regain SJ contact. Rough seas hampered efforts.

2028- SJ contacts 000 6 NM.

2032- General Quarters- Surface Torpedo.

2050- Contact report sent to CTF-72. Convoy sighted. 6 vessels 2 escorts. Position 3 43 N 139 27 E. Course 120 degrees speed 9 knots.

2118- ATTACK NO.4 Fired six MK 14 torpedoes from forward tubes at two targets. SAKITO MARU type troopship and KIGAN MARU type merchant. Range 2200/2400 yards AOB:75/90 Torpedo depth 10 ft. POA MOT.

2119-All torpedoes hit their targets. Both ships quickly caught fire and sunk by the stern. SAKITO MARU AP 8839 tons and KIGAN MARU AK 7390 tons sunk at 3 41 N 141 30 E. Escorts identified as Wakatake DD(lead) and Chidori (trail), both fired off star shells and closed on Drum but did not open fire before lost contact.

2134-Moving for end around to fire last two torpedoes (stern) before dawn.

25 November-

0023- Regained SJ contact bearing 351 8 NM.

0116-ATTACK NO 5. Fired two remaining torpedoes (MK 14) at lead freighter in convoy. Range 2600 yards AOB 88 Torpedo depth 8 ft POA MOT. Both torpedoes hit as aimed starting large fires and setting off a large secondary explosion 10 seconds after last impact.

0117-BIYO MARU 5426 tons sunk 3 18 N 139 37. All torpedoes expended.

0200-All torpedoes expended, set course for Pearl Harbor to terminate war patrol.

(C) Weather
Weather on this patrol was mostly pleasant both en route to the area, while in the area and en route to Pearl Harbor. A squall which kicked up heavy seas did stifle Drum's efforts to end around for follow up attack on 24 November.

(D) Tidal Information
In the equatorial region between longitudes 140° East to 152° East, a current setting 285°(T), varying from one-half to one knot was experienced during the entire time in the area. The force and direction of the wind had little effect on this current.

(E) Navigational Aids
None sighted.

(H) Attack Data

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 8

Time: 0522 (L) Date: 13 November 1943 Lat. 3 52 N 138 54 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Submerged for attack due to excessive moonlight. Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from 1000 yards, AOB 80 Torpedo depth 10 ft POA: MOT.

Immediately Followed up with Attack 1(a) at a large troopship 1400 yards AOB 80 and 1(b) 600 yards AOB 80. These quick shots were conducted as excellent setup presented after initial attack. All torpedoes hit.
.

Ships Sunk:

AK KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons 3 52 N 138 54 E

AP HORAI MARU 9549 tons 3 53 N 138 54 E

Ships Damaged:

AK KINOPASAN MARU 3900 tons 3 53 N 138 54 E

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 010°(T), Depth 64 ft., Angle 0°

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack

Sighted convoy on the surface, intended a surfaced torpedo attack but due to moonlight and clouds clearing, submerged at about 10,000 yards. Closed the track of the target group. Torpedoes were fired using individual bearings for each shot.

Sea conditions - glassy.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 8

Time: 1330 (L) Date: 22 November 1943 3 04 N 141 20 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

SJ made contact at 1130 and began tracking convoy. Submerged for attack at 1246. During the approach sound reported bearing shift. A periscope observation revealed convoy had zigged away roughly to the south-east. Once the new track settled was apparent could likely close for a shot. Ordered Drum to 100 feet and ahead flank to close the range. Ordered torpedoes set to low speed as a shot in excess of 4500 yards was likely.

At 1330 reached an attack position and fired three MK 14 torpedoes from 3900 yards AOB 80 set to 6 ft depth POA was MOT. Two torpedoes missed astern of target, but the last hit the stern. Believe it destroyed the prop, saft etc as vessel lost its way. Compensating for the speed change and with an escort bearing down on Drum, fired one more MK 14 before began descending to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running. As Drum passed 226 feet, the impact of a torpedo ws heard, audible through the hull and confirmed by sound. At 1344, sounds of ship breaking up were heard from last bearing of target.

Ships Sunk:

AK RYUNN MARU 6538 tons 3 04 N 141 20 E.

Ships Damaged:

None.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 160°(T), Depth 64 feet, Angle 0°

Sea conditions - glassy

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3, Patrol No. 8

Time: 0055 (L) Date: 23 November 1943 2 34 N 141 24 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Follow up night surface attack to ATTACK NO. 2. Fired stern tubes at two targets from 2200 yards with AOB of 90 on target one and 70 on target two. Torpedoes were set to ten feet and POA was MOT. Torpedo #3 was supposed to go to target 2, but suffered a guidance failure and headed for general direction of target 1 and to our surprise, did hit. Torpedo 4 ran normally and hit the target.

Attack No. 3(continued) After multiple attempts to attack through the night, was unable due to increasing moonlight, radical evasive movements by the convoy, and escorts. Submerged in morning twilight at 0555 to attack. Fired two MK 14 torpedoes at 1200 yards AOB 90. Both impacted.

Ships Sunk:

0055- AK MOMOYAMA MARU 4100 tons 2 34 N 141 24 E

0607- AK SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons 2 27 N 141 30 E

Ships Damaged:

0055- AK SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons. 2 34 N 141 24 E

Own Ship Data:

Speed 0 knots, Course 240°(T), Depth: Surfaced

Sea conditions: Calm, Glassy.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 4, Patrol No. 8

Time: 2118 (L) Date: 24 November 1943 3 41 N 141 30 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

SJ failed to detect convoy until just 6 NM away in the dark night. Ordered General Quarters and began tracking the six ship two escort convoy.

At 2118 fired remaining six bow torpedoes at a large AK and AP from a range o 2200(AP) and 2400 (AK) AOB 90 (AP) and 75(AK). Torpedo depth of 10 feet with POA MOT. All torpedoes impacted, both vessels quickly went under.

Ships Sunk:

2120- AP SAKITO MARU 8839 tons 3 41 N 141 30 E

2129- AK KIGAN MARU AK 7390 tons 3 41 N 141 30 E

Own Ship Data:

Speed 0 knots, Course 090°(T), Depth: Surfaced

Sea conditions: light chop

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 5, Patrol No. 8

Time: 0116 (L) Date: 25 November 1943 3 18 N 139 37

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Follow up attack on convoy from Attack No. 5 after end around. Convoy had reformed into a center column of two AK with an AK on each flank screening the center vessels. Escorts were forward and aft at 800-1000 yards.

Fired two remaining torpedoes (MK 14) from stern tubes at lead freighter in center column. Range 2600 yards AOB 88 Torpedo depth 8 ft POA MOT. Both torpedoes hit. The vessel was burning from bow to stern and quickly sunk,

Ships Sunk:

0117 BIYO MARU 5426 tons 3 18 N 139 37

Ships Damage:
None

Own Ship Data:

Speed 0 knots, Course 000°(T), Depth :Surfaced

Sea conditions-light chop.

() Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics

Counter Attack #1 11-13-1943

As noted on last patrol enemy ASW has improved in quality. This attack was performed well over several hours, pushing Drum to 395 feet, but ultimately ineffective.

Counter Attack #2 11-22-1943

The two Type A Etorofu Class escorts did an excellent job of depth charging in this attack. The lead escort used a new tactic of closing Drum but did not pinging until at roughly 500 yards. At this point the escort began intense short scale pinging as sped up to make his run, only ceasing as arrived overhead.

The second joined in and they took turns over several hours making runs using racks and throwers, causing damage to Drum.

Counter Attack #3 11-23-1943

The working over of attack no. 3 the Etorofus gave Drum, put counter attack #2 to shame. This time the close ones were really close, and they were big!

The initial attack was by one escort but he was joined within 15 minutes by the second escort, which had been astern of convoy on a sweep at time of Drum's attack. They proceeded to apparently circle Drum, taking turns listening while one attacked. Rinse and repeat was the method over next five and a half hours. The calm seas provided ideal sound conditions. Serious damage was suffered during this counter attack (see damage) section.
After five hours, contact faded and was lost.

(J) Major Defects and Damage

(1.) Damage From #3 Depth Charge Attack

(a)Damage to conning towercausing flooding. Air and water lines leaking.
(b) Damage to forward control room bulkhead caused flooding.
(c) Forward and Aft batteries damaged. This damage could not be completely repaired at sea, batteries would only gain a charge to 85 percent.
(d)compressor damaged
(e) Trim pump damaged
(f) 4 inch 50 Cal deck gun left inoperable. Repaired at sea. Test fired 1 December.

(2.) Damage From #2 Depth Charge Attack

(a) Aft batteries damaged
(b) Air and water line leaks throughout boat.
(c) Minor flooding in forward torpedo room. Tubes-3,5,6 damaged.
(d) Port sonar head hoist damaged.

Note: Drum's new paint job was left damaged by one or all attacks.

(3.) Torpedoes

Torpedo performance was excellent this patrol. This is said to be the first patrol out of Drum's eight where torpedo performance was so. Drum experienced no premature explosions, no duds, no known deep runners, no circular runs. One torpedo suffered an apparent gyro malfunction and did not take proper course to target. However, it did impact another ship contributing to its destruction. The new torpex warheads continue to provide the much desired extra punch.

(K) Radio

Radio performance was satisfactory.

(L) Radar

SJ radar performance was overall satisfactory, except for when it failed to detect the convoy on one occasion until at just 6 NM. Average detection range is 8 NM.

SD radar functioned well and average detection range was 11 NM.

(M) Sound conditions

Sound conditions were generally excellent this patrol with typically detecting contacts up to 8000 yards. Naturally, these conditions contributed to the effective depth charging and tracking by escorts.

(N) Density layers. Only one thermal layer was located on 13 November at 204 feet.

(O) Health, Morale, Habitability, and Crew.

The health, morale, and performance of the crew on this patrol was excellent. Several crew in the forward torpedo room and the Executive Officer in the conning tower suffered minor injuries during the Counter attack # 3. All maintained their stations and healed fine.

After the intense actions of 22/23 November with more action 24/25 November the crew was fatigued but with eight ships sunk and another damaged, and Drum en route to Pearl Harbor morale remained high.

(P) Miles Steamed-Fuel Used

Brisbane to Area 2097.5 Miles 17934 Gallons
In Area 3672.0 Miles 26499 Gallons
Area to Pearl Harbor 3848.4 Miles 40584 Gallons
Total 9617.9 Miles 85017 Gallons

(Q) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 10
Days in Area 15
Days Enroute to Pearl Harbor 13
Days Submerged 1

(R) Factors of Endurance Remaining
Torpedoes 0
Fuel 20873 gallons
Provisions 40 days
Personnel 30 days

Limiting Factor of This Patrol:

All torpedoes expended and damage to key systems.

Remarks:

A challenging yet highly successful patrol. Of the fifteen days on station, only thirty-seven hours eleven minutes were spent submerged. Of this time some twenty hours were during attacks and counter attacks.

It is significant to note that all six aircraft contacts in the area were in the vicinity of 2° N. Although much time was spent near 3° N., no planes were sighted in that locality.

Strykr

07-08-21, 07:52 PM

Great book, Thunder Below. Such an exciting read. Well done, glad you are enjoying the mods. Did the gunfire hit you or just come close? Not sure is lit up is implying they put searchlights on you, shot you full of holes or both? lol. Did you survive the depth charging after diving?

Nice to be able to pull off realistic night surface attacks eh ? I plan on releasing my update which has updated versions of my mods for TMO in couple weeks before go on vacation( was end of June but refining a few things) and night surface attacks are even better now. I added some of the large almost allied style convoys japanese were deploying in spring summer, most of fall 1944, player can under the right conditions, get inside the columns and wreak havoc.

Also added a lot of the historical convoys/warships etc such as those Fluckey, O Kane, etc attacked, they show up at historic time and location of the engagement. They only spawn once and compositions are as historically accurate as possible within game. Can even try to pull off Fluckey's Namkwan Harbor raid in January 1945. , the convoys are there at anchor, escorts patrolling. Challenging but fun and can pull it off almost minute by minute according to his book.

Both escorts and merchants appeared to know my exact location when torpedoes hit.
Wasn't sure if they would.....as torpedoes impacted port side, from the rear.
But would they expect me to to be attacking from behind ???
They sure did !!!
Captain Fluckey pressed forward.... and so did I. But not with the same results. Lol
I was illuminated by spotlights, and immediately fired upon by escorts and merchants.
However, although I heard the sound of ricochets, suffered only minor damage, which was quickly repaired by my OUTSTANDING crew.
I crash dove, and once under, turned into the closing escort to starboard, keeping my speed up until below the layer, then ordered silent running.
When I heard pinging, and or depth charges, I was moving at Ahead Standard, with course changes.
Although I did not play to completion, escorts did not appear to have my location locked down.

Yes !!! Surface attacks are certainly possible, historically accurate.... and fun.
I find myself playing a campaign looking to pull them off, and testing how close I can get, before getting detected. All depending on the sea state, weather, and moon of course.
Looking forward to your impending TMO update.

https://i.postimg.cc/sXjqbfWM/Screenshot-421.png (https://postimg.cc/064Vwscv)

Bubblehead1980

07-08-21, 11:43 PM

Both escorts and merchants appeared to know my exact location when torpedoes hit.
Wasn't sure if they would.....as torpedoes impacted port side, from the rear.
But would they expect me to to be attacking from behind ???
They sure did !!!
Captain Fluckey pressed forward.... and so did I. But not with the same results. Lol
I was illuminated by spotlights, and immediately fired upon by escorts and merchants.
However, although I heard the sound of ricochets, suffered only minor damage, which was quickly repaired by my OUTSTANDING crew.
I crash dove, and once under, turned into the closing escort to starboard, keeping my speed up until below the layer, then ordered silent running.
When I heard pinging, and or depth charges, I was moving at Ahead Standard, with course changes.
Although I did not play to completion, escorts did not appear to have my location locked down.

Yes !!! Surface attacks are certainly possible, historically accurate.... and fun.
I find myself playing a campaign looking to pull them off, and testing how close I can get, before getting detected. All depending on the sea state, weather, and moon of course.
Looking forward to your impending TMO update.

https://i.postimg.cc/sXjqbfWM/Screenshot-421.png (https://postimg.cc/064Vwscv)

Okay good so only the machine guns/auto cannons hit, not the big deck guns. Although the auto cannons (AA guns) are overpowered in TMO and will eat your hull integrity up . I want to reduce the armor level the can penetrate so can't chew up hull damage, but can damage topside equipment and crew (a problem want to solve but it is really difficult to correct actually as cant track down the shell they use, not clearly labeled )

Glad to hear its possible and enjoying it.

Yes, at times the ships do seem to have sixth sense of where player is. I believe they have built in radar detectors so SJ clues them, same way believe SD being on all the time and thus always emitting signal attracts them. I would like to make it where SD can be turned off such as in FOTRS but then would not have it on a retractable mast, cant have both apparently.

Sim has ships in two modes alert or relaxed. Once one reports a contact or sees a torpedo explosion etc they got into alert mode which seems to boost all of their sensors, so if one sees you , they instantly all know where you are. One of those AI things in the sim. Sometimes, I believe they "kind of" spot you but sim does not send them into alert mode yet. Theory have after hours and hours , months of testing and tweaking the sim.

A great tactic to come in from the rear of the target. In the forthcoming upgrade, some of the large 15-20 ship convoys have have gaps at the rear of the screen, so its fun to slip in and if cant make the turn to shoot, do a up the kilts shot" AOB 180, easy when traveling in straight line lol. Two of any torpedo will usually sink most merchants with that shot. Certainly will disable them for a follow up. Then the convoy tends to scatter in panic, can move about wreaking havoc until escorts arrive on scene, then have to dodge them.

What do you think of the torpedoes...are they underpowered? I recently upped their power slightly to reflect the torpex warheads used in 1943 onwards. I may have to adjust slightly, little overpowered now but then again accounts read they were effective.

Bubblehead1980

07-10-21, 09:11 PM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
100 difficult cams and contacts off.

(Note* This report is shorter and has a lot of data from memory as I forgot to save the log somehow, power went out and lost all the data after 11 April, until 1 May)

Below is a link to a patrol chart. This is from the USS Drum website and is the route followed on actual ninth war patrol as well as on ninth patrol in the sim.

https://i.postimg.cc/fbxxcLSS/drum-patrolchart09.jpg

USS Drum SS-228
Tenth War Patrol
9 April-1 June 1944
Area: Bonin and Northern Volcano Islands

(A) Prologue

Returned from eighth patrol on 7 December, 1943. Three weeks of refit by Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H., assisted by the relief crew of Submarine Division 101.

Left Pearl Harbor January 9, 1944 and arrived Mare Island on January 16, 1944.After eight consistent war patrols and heavy damage sustained on last two, Drum was due for an overhaul. Overhaul conducted at Mare Island January- March 1944. New conning tower installed due to crack from previous depth charging. New SJ-1 radar with PPI display installed along with JP listening gear. Departed Mare Island on March 22, 1944 with a new conning tower, and all alterations completed. Arrived Pearl Harbor March 29, 1944.Loaded twelve MK 23 and twelve Mark 18 torpedoes April 7 and 8, 1944. Ready for sea April 9, 1944.

(B.) Narrative

9 April-

0900-Departed Pearl Harbor for patrol area via Johnston Island in company with Tambor.

1800-Lost sight of Tambor.

11 April-

0900-1200-Refueled at Johnston Island

12 April-22 April-

En route patrol area- Bonin Islands. No contacts. Oddly enough no patrol aircraft from Wake or Marcus Island.

22 April-

0300-Entered patrol area.

1458-SJ contact bearing 095 14 NM. Position 28 10 N 141 10 E

1500-PPI displays large grouping of nine ships with escorts ahead and on ahead flank, three total.

1502-General Quarters.

1520-Submerged for attack on port flank of convoy.

1545-Sound check reveals bearing change. At periscope depth, observed convoy zigged to SW. While this did not ruin the shot, it opened the range from ideal to long. Drum went to 100 feet and ahead full .

1600-Periscope depth. Plot shows should be able to fire at 3800 yards.

1605-ATTACK NO.1 Fired three MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 1,2, and 3. Range 3850 yards.

1606-All three torpedoes hit target. Large fires observed and target listing.

1609- NAGARA MARU 7145 tons sunk 28 N 141 24 E.

1610- Type A Shimushu Class escort closing from bearing 030 range 3100 yards. Ordered Drum to 300 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1615-First in series of furious but ineffective attacks by two escorts.

1700-Last depth charge run. Escorts heard leaving area.

2100-Surfaced. Secured General Quarters and reloaded torpedoes. Began searching to regain contact for end around.

2309-Regained SJ contact at 13 NM bearing 004.

23 April-

0000-General Quarters Torpedo Surface Attack.

0010-Off starboard side of convoy. Targets medium sized tanker and medium sized merchants. Convoy zigged forcing Drum to fire earlier than planned.

0011-ATTACK NO. 2 - Fired three MK 23 torpedoes at tanker. Range 2000 yards AOB 80 POA MOT Depth 8 ft.

0012-Three torpedoes hit the tanker, which exploded in massive fireball, illuminating the area, including Drum, which was over half way through it's turn away.

Drum, illuminated by star shells and searchlights and at a closer range than planned due to the unexpected zig came under heavy machine gun and auto cannon fire from merchants and escorts, as well as 3 or 5 inch gun fire with some splashes landing close as Drum sped away in overdrive at 22 knots.

In lieu of diving continued high speed run alternating 5 degrees rudder for constant helming, this preventing accurate gunnery by escorts. Port lookout, Petty Officer 2nd Class D. Rosencrans was lightly wounded by machine gun fire.

After ten minutes of pursuit Drum has opened range but was still pursued by a Wakatake Class DD and the Mikura Class Type B escort. Eventually the range was opened and they turned back to join the convoy. A definite close call caused by the unexpected zig at key moment before firing.

0016-SEITO MARU 5150 tons sunk 27 19 N 141 28 E.

0400-A follow up attack was planned, however a squall set in with heavy seas, rain, and fog. SJ contact was just and not regained. Drum turned north back into patrol area.

27 April-

0904- At dawn, SD contact. 8 NM closing fast. Position 26 15 N 141 39 E. 50 NM SW Haha Jima.

1004-Sound has fast screws at 101 bearing. SJ sweep at radar depth has lone contact bearing 099 13 NM. Rapid bearing suggests high speed target.

1016-Masts of a warship spotted.

1028-General Quarters. Contact is a full sized destroyer. Believe aircraft, while did not attack Drum spotted her and called in a surface patrol.

1034- DD's track presented favorable setup for stern shot with Mark 18 torpedoes.

1046-ATTACK NO. 3- Fired two MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 7 and 8 at zigging destroyer. Range 1800 yards AOB 75 Depth 5 feet. POA MOT.

1047-Both torpedoes hit the destroyer causing explosions and fires . Two large holes amidships at water line.

1050- Minekaze Class Destroyer sunk 1215 tons. 26 1 E 141 48 N

1100-Surfaced. Secured from General Quarters.

28-29 April-

Only contacts were daily SD contacts, no visuals.

Patrolled submerged off West coast and harbor of Chi Chi Jima through day of 29 April.

30 April-

0700-Received radio report of enemy weather ship or picket in vicinity of Sofu Gan, set course for Sofu Gan at 18 knots.

1 May-

0701- SJ contact on line pip off Sofu Gan.

0715-Submerged for approach and prepared for Battle Surface at dawn

0801-As dawn broke, observed stationary tug like vessel presumed to be a weather ship and picket anchored 5000 yards SE of Sofu Gan. What is believed to be a 4 inch deck gun observed forward.

0805-General Quarters- Battle Surface Gun Action

0810-Surfaced.

0811-Commenced firing from 4500 yards. Three hits amidships at water line and in deck housing.

0813-Target finally replied with a few rounds from deck gun. Crew ordered to target enemy weapons.

0816-Enemy guns now silent after several hits by 4 inch 50 cal gun. Switched back to aiming for waterline and hull.

0817-Vessel is burning and listing. Ceased fire.

0821-Enemy weather tug/picket estimated 1100 tons sunk. 29 47 N 140 23 E 4200 yards SE of Sofu Gan. Survivors seen in raft.

0825-Drum secured from GQ turned south at high speed.

2-7 May- No contacts aside from daily SD contacts.

8 May-

0000-0800-

Replaced MK 23 in tubes 1-4 with MK 18. Forward load out is now 4 MK 18 in tubes 1-4, two MK 23 in tubes 5 and 6. Three MK 24 in reserved. Four MK 18 in stern tubes with two four reserves.

11 May-

0510- SJ contacts 349 14 NM. 27 41 N 141 28 E. PPI indicated 2-3 ships in column with one ahead and one on each flank. Possible TF or fast moving convoy as SJ shows rapid bearing change.

0515- General Quarters.

0538- Visual on targets. Lead DD possibly Akatskuki Class followed by CL possibly Oyodo Class followed by CA. Possibly Takao Class.

0547-Drum struggling to pull ahead. Engines on overload. Speed 22 knots.

0552- Turning about to bring bow tubes to bear as could not outpace the targets and burning precious fuel.

0554-Submerged for attack. Moonlight prevented surface attack. Contact report sent to COMSUBPAC. Task Force sighted . Position 27 33 N 141 23 E Course 179 speed 22 knots

0604- ATTACK NO 4. Fired four MK 18 Range:1400 AOB 70: Torpedo depth: 10 feet POA: MOT with two degree spread on TDC.

0605-Just after torpedo #4 exited the tube. Intense, short scale pinging began. A check showed a large DD beleived to be Shimakaze astern of Drum at 10000 yards. Drum went deep rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0608-Depth charge explosions. Drum shaken but undamaged. Depth 300 feet. Drum descended 380 feet.

0630-DD's appear to have lost contact with Drum. Many depth charges heard estimated 3000-6000 yards aster With winds at 13 knots, the chop and thermal layer encountered at 197 feet appear to have thwarted the counter attack. Also, like many previous encounters with escorts of capital ships, the effort is not so much to destroy a submarine but to pin it down while the larger warships escape.

0720-Lost contact with DD, last heard leaving area at high speed. Drum at 380 feet. Maintained silent running. Secured from General Quarters. On course to NW to clear area. Likely ASW patrols will arrive in area.

0914-Periscope depth. All clear. Secure silent running. Winds appear to have dropped to five knots

0915- Drum remained submerged for rest of day to avoid ASW aircraft and surface patrols in area. ASW efforts heavy.

2200-Surfaced.

12 May-

0001-Received orders to assume lifeguard position off Iwo Jima for strikes on

15 May.

0532-Ten NM west of Iwo Jima. Observed carrier based aircraft TBF F6F attacking Iwo Jima. One F6F was observed crashing into ocean. No bail out observed. Swept area , no downed aircrew reported or located. Returned to Bonin Islands area.

16-19 May- Storms arrived in area. Persisted through afternoon of 19 May.

20 May-Fuel low and per operation order, set course for Pearl Harbor.

1 June-

0900-Docked at Pearl Harbor.

(C.) Weather

Weather en route to area was excellent with calm seas mostly. Weather in patrol area was superb, aside from a squall that arrived , preventing a follow up night surface attack on 23 April. Weather remained excellent until 16-19 May when heavy seas, wind, and rains persisted for several days. Weather began to clear when Drum departed patrol area on 20 May.

(D.) Tidal Information

In the Bonins and Kazan Retto, sets of about one knot were encountered when close to the islands, predominantly to the southward. Southerly winds decreased this set.

No set was experienced when well off the islands both to the westward and to the eastward.

(E.) Navigational Aids

Sofu Gan was as usual for boats operating in the area used as a navigational aid in addition to sighting and SJ targeting of Chi Chi, Haha, and Iwo Jima Islands.

(F.) Attack Data

Torpedo Attack No. 1

Date: 1944/04/22 Time:1604 Location: 28 N 141 24 E.

Description: Submerged attack. Fired three MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 1, 2, and 3 at a large NAGARA MARU class AK from 3850 yards, AOB 80. Torpedo depth was 8 feet with point of aim(POA) middle of target (MOT).

Result: All three torpedoes impacted target causing large fires. AK NAGARA MARU 7145 tons sunk at 1609.

Torpedo Attack No. 2

Date:1944/04/23 Time:0011 Location:27 19 N 141 28 E.

Description: Fired three MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 4,5,6 at tanker. Range 2000 yards AOB 70 POA: MOT Torpedo Depth: 8 ft.

Result: All torpedoes impacted. Tanker erupted into massive fireball a was likely carrying refined aviation or vehicle gasoline southbound. The last two torpedoes were somewhat redundant as the first torpedo set off the explosion. AO SEITO MARU 5150 tons sunk at 0016 hours.

Torpedo Attack No. 3

Date:1944/04/27 Time:1046 Location: 26 1 E 141 48 N

Description: Fired two MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 7 and 8 at zigging destroyer. Range 1800 yards AOB 75 Depth 5 feet. POA: MOT.

Result:Both torpedoes impacted the destroyer causing explosions and fires . Two large holes amidships at water line. Target took forward port list. Minekaze Class Destroyer sunk 1215 tons sunk at 1050 hours.

Torpedo Attack No. 4

Date:1944/05/11 Time:0604 Location: 27 33 N 141 23 E

Description: Fired four MK 18 torpedoes at Takao Class Heavy Cruiser. Range:1600 AOB: 70 POA MOT w/ two degree spread on TDC. Depth 10 feet. Target Course and speed: 179 degrees at 22 knots.

Result: Missed Reason(s): Enemy destroyer detected Drum just after torpedo four was fired. An audible alarm klaxon was audible through the hull, searchlights observed and the target slowed, then sped up with a hard and impressive starboard turn (away from Drum) which likely caused the torpedoes to miss ahead. This of course, was quite disappointing as had a near perfect set up with wakeless torpedoes on an important enemy warship.

Gun Attack No. 1

Date:1944/05/01 Time:0811-0817 Location: 29 47 N 140 23 off Sofu Gan.

Description: Fired thirty-one 4 inch 50 Caliber rounds at a 1100 ton armed weather tug from 4500 yards.

Result: Twenty-two of thirty-one rounds hit the target, demolishing it. Roughly 50 percent of hits focused on the water line but the vessel, like most wood construction Japanese vessels was stubborn. The dawn attack surprised the crew as the vessel was at anchored and did not return fire until several rounds hit hit the vessel.

Drum's gun crew quickly silenced the the 4 inch gun mounted forward with several hits. Several more hits at waterline and in the pilot house area/deck left the tug burning and listing. Finally, the vessel sunk at 0820 off Sofu Gan. Survivors were observed in a raft but were not approached. Drum's 20 MM guns were manned but were not utilized in this action.

(G.) Mines

No mines were encountered.

(H.) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics.

Enemy air patrols and surface patrols in the area were generally heavy. Typically when between 25-28 N and 139-142 E would encounter two SD contacts per day, usually before noon and in later afternoon early evening.

When within one hundred nautical miles of Iwo Jima and Chi Chi Jima, would encounter SD contacts at night. The APR-1 RWR did detect radar emissions from these night flyers. However, none detected Drum as submerging out of caution was typical.

After Drum sunk the Minekaze Destroyer, no more surface patrols were encountered Believe this was possibly the lone ocean going patrol vessel in region. Small PC type craft were observed at long range at Chi Chi and Haha Jima.

Counterattack #1

The enemy's counter attack with depth charges on 22 April was initially intense but quickly faded and not effective. This was a welcome respite considering the intense and damaging attacks Drum had began to routinely experience on prior two war patrols. The thermal layer and choppy seas certainly assisted Drum's evasion, which was standard with depths of 300-380 feet with speed bursts as needed and constant turning, alternating of direction.

Counterattack # 2

Two enemy escorts opened from from 2500(forward)-1900(aft to port of Drum) yards away on Drum, initially with a barrage of machine gun and auto cannon fire and then main battery fire. A few rounds of the auto fire did strike the Drum, wounding a look out.

The convoys unexpected zig left Drum somewhat sandwiched and firing at 2000 yards instead of 2500 on the target. The target's massive fuel laden explosion illuminated Drum, compounded by star shells and searchlights.

Drum was half way through turn away to starboard in 180 degree turn when the torpedoes hit. "Ahead Emergency" was ordered placing overload on engines. Drum accelerated to a 22.5 knot surface speed, estimating a 2.5 knots speed advantage of the old destroyer and the escort, which continued to fire even as Drum's stern was now showing them as she raced into the night.

Five degrees right/left rudder applied alternately gave Drum a decent zig pattern which helped avoid accurate gun fire from the escorts. Eventually with range opened, both ceased fire but continued pursuit for some time, before slowing and turning back. Obvious these escorts do not have a surface search radar.

Counterattack #3

The sneaky manner in which the enemy DD was able to get near Drum unnoticed during the attack on the cruiser was impressive. It is possible the DD was returning from it's sweep and heard the torpedoes fire. As has proven typical with escorts of large warships or fast moving merchants, the counter attack was to keep the submarine pinned down while the heavies escaped at high speed and out of range. The attack was brief and inaccurate but achieved its goal. Evasion was standard method and depth.

(I.) Lifeguard Operations

Per orders received via radio assumed lifeguard positions off Iwo Jima. SD radar detected inbound strikes at 11 NM. Visual identification was made on TBF and F6F aircraft.

No calls for assistance were received no damage aircraft ditching or pilots/crew bailing out. However, one F6F was observed crashing. Drum went to scene and swept area but located no downed aircrew.

(J.) Major Defects and Damage.

Drum suffered no damage this patrol nor defects.

This was Drum's first patrol with two new type of torpedoes, the MK 23 and 18. Performance of both were excellent with no known malfunctions.

(K.) Radio

Radio performance was excellent.

(L.) Radar

The new SJ-1 surface search radar performed excellently with average detection range at fourteen nautical miles. The new PPI display provides a real advantage in tracking targets and setting up for attack.

SD radar performed well, with typical detection at thirteen nautical miles.

(M.) Sound

Sound conditions were generally poor to average in the area. The JP-1 sound gear, installed during the navy yard overhaul performed well but did not provide an discernible advantage on this patrol.

The temperature gradients, choppy seas, and others seemed to provide not ideal sound conditions for the enemy hindering their tracking and attacking of Drum.

(N.) Thermal layers

Thermal layers were encountered at 196, 240, and 233 feet.

(O.) Health, Food, and Habitability

Since the entire patrol was on the surface in cool spring weather, the boat was comfortable all the time. This fact also cut the time lost due to minor ailments to a minimum. Two mild cases of catarrhal fever each were cured in three days.The food was well prepared throughout the run.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Dilbert H. Rosencrans suffered minor injuries from gunfire during the surface attack on 23 April. Rosencrans was return to duty with one day.

(P.) Personnel

Lieutenant V. O.McDonald assumed the role of Executive Officer upon the detachment of Lieutenant R. B. P. Digby during the overhaul period. Throughout the period roughly half of Drum's crew was rotated out. Since the ship was out of the areas five months, to the day, much indoctrination of the new officers and men was necessary. However, performance of crew was excellent throughout the patrol.

(Q.) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Miles Gallons Gals/Miles
Pearl to Johnston 813 12306 15.1
Johnston to Area 3000 30715 10.2
In Area 1 6233 33473 5.4
Area to Majuro 5295 30343 11.9
Total: 12641 106837

(R.) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 13
Days in Area 31
Days Enroute to Majuro 9
Days Submerged 3

(S.) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Torpedoes: 12
Fuel 20157 gallons
Provisions 0 days
Personnel 14 days
Limiting Factor of This Patrol: Fuel and Operation order.

(T.) Remarks.

Aside from the convoy contact of 22/23 April, the lack of consistent merchant traffic in the area was disappointing as this since has long been a busy shipping corridor. A patrol to the east of the Bonins since the area was unoccupied also provide fruitless. It is possible the enemy has limited or even terminated this shipping route at this time.

It is believed the enemy is using a new, larger, and more powerful depth charge as the explosions seem to emit more of shockwave even at greater distance. Depth charge capacity and deployment apparatuses such s throwers seem more common as well. Further more, the convoy attacked was large by imperial standards and had three escorts and further suggests an actual convoy system has been implemented.

Bubblehead1980

07-20-21, 06:10 PM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
100 difficulty Cams on contacts on.

USS Drum SS-228
Tenth War Patrol
24 June- August 16 1944

Assigned Areas: Palau-Yap areas for anti-shipping patrol and lifeguard duty on specified dates.

(A.) Prologue

Arrived in Majuro, Marshall Islands from ninth war patrol on 1 June, 1944 in good material condition. Normal refit, with no alterations or major work, was accomplished by U.S.S. SPERRY, and SubDiv 101.

Lieutenant B.R. Digby, USN, was detached and Ensign L. Hammond, USNR, reported aboard for duty. On June 23, 1944, the Commanding Officer, Commander D.F. Williamson, USN, was relieved by Lieutenant Commander M.H. Rindskopf, USN.

Readiness for sea June 24, 1944.

(B.) Narrative

24 June-

1300-Departed Majuro for tenth war patrol in accordance with ComSubPac Operation Order No. 215-44 in company with U.S.S. MEADE (DD 602)

1800-Trim Dive.

25 June-2 July-

En route to assigned Lifeguard Station

3 July-

0700-Assumed Lifeguard Station 10 NM West of Yap.

1058-Closed West coast of Yap on surface to investigate reports of downed aircrew.

1103-Smoke marker spotted 000 estimated 7 NM.

1107-Large fires visible near harbor areas on Yap.

1117-SD contacts. 14 NM closing. Believe this is B-24 strike second wave.

1119-Submerged. Shore batteries opened fire at 9500 yards.

1132-Closing raft with multiple downed aircrew floating 5000 yards off the beach.

1139-Rescued five downed aircrew in raft 4400 yards off Yap at 9 36 N 138 4 E.

7 July-

0700-Released from lifeguard station.

8 July-

Patrol area between 9 N and 11 N, 130 NM North of Palau.

0934-SD contact 6 NM closing fast. Submerged to avoid.

0936-Drum at 195 feet. Three large explosions well above. No damage.

1225-Surfaced.

9-25 July-

Patrolled West of Palau.

26 July-

0500-Assumed Lifeguard Station 10 NM E of Palau.

1241-Rescued downed aviator east of Palau. 7 25 N 134 40 E

27 July-

Lifeguard Duty

28 July-

0900-Released from Lifeguard Duty, returned to patrol West of Palau.

1 August-

0700-Submerged to avoid SD contact 5 NM closing. 8 24 N 133 7 E

0703-Several large explosions above. Drum at 200 feet. No damage.

0900-Surfaced.

2 August-

Departed patrol area for home via Midway due to fuel and op order.

3-12 August-

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

13 August-

1200-1500- Refueled at Midway.

14-15 August- En route Pearl Harbor.

16 August-

1300-Docked Pearl Harbor. Terminated patrol.

(C) Weather

In the Yap-Ulithi area weather generally favorable. North-West of Palau there were frequent squalls, typically lasting a few hours.

Typhoon like conditions were encountered South of Guam on 3-4 August.

(D) Tidal Information

In the Yap-Ulithi area, the set was consistently westerly; drift about one knot.

(E) Navigational Aids

Lights from Yap's harbors and as well as at the Southern and Northern capes were visible at ten to fifteen nautical miles.

Mountain peaks in Palau Islands provided navigational aids.

(F) Attack Data

None

(G) Lifeguard

Description

A total of two rescues of downed aircrew were made during this patrol. Both rescues were conducted close to shore and under fire from shore batteries. Downed aircrew were initially approached on surface at high speed until around 10000 yards away when shore batteries opened fired. A submerged approach was then conducted until roughly 500 yards away when Drum came to 28 feet with decks awash, permitting rescue and minimizing the boat as a target. While decks awash shore batteries continued firing but no shells came close. Upon rescue, Drum submerged again to periscope depth to continue searching until out of range of shore batteries.

Just after the rescue of 26 July, an enemy aircraft(MAVIS) the SD radar failed to detect was spotted bearing 100 at 5 NM. Drum submerged rapidly and as passed 100 feet was shaken by three large bombs but suffered no damage.

Rescues:

Date: Time: Location : Type:

7/4/2944 1139 9 36 N 138 4 E Raft(multi-person)

Rescued:

R.E. Worley, Capt. USAAF

T.G. Renton, 1Lt USAAF

O.M. Klein, Sgt USAAF

C.F. Beauregard, Cpl USAAF

A.Z. Joblonski , Pvt. USAAF

7/26/1944 1341 13 6 N 144 9 E Single in life jacket.

Rescued:

E.F. Myer, 2Lt USAAF

(H) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasion tactics.

Enemy air patrols in the Palau and Yap areas was heavy with daily SD contacts at dawn, noon, and dusk. On average every other night a night time SD contact was made, often forcing Drum to submerge.

No surface patrols were encountered on this patrol.

Shore batteries at Yap and Palau seemed to withhold fire until Drum was at a range of roughly 10000 yards.

All harbors at Yap were guarded by subnets, minefields, and gun batteries. No previously unknown and unguarded passes in the reef around Palau Islands was detected.

Evasion of air patrols was to follow standard policy to dive once SD contact was at ten miles or less. Dive was typically made to 180 feet and would remain there for an hour before rising. A sweep with raised SD mast and periscope would come before surfacing. Enemy aircraft most times seem to back track within two or three hours.

(I) Mines

Visible minefields were observed securing entrances to the harbors at Yap.

(J)Major Defects and Damage

None

(K) Radio

Radio function was excellent.

(L) Radar

SJ Radar performance was excellent overall with vessels in harbor at Yap detected at 16 NM.

SD Radar performance was mixed on this patrol detecting most contacts at ten to eleven miles. However, it failed to detect a contact on the 26th causing Drum to be bombed.

(M) Sound Conditions

Sounds conditions in the Yap and Palau areas were generally good.

(N) Thermal Layers

No Thermal layers were documented on this patrol.

(O) Health and Habitability

Overall health and habitability was excellent. The long duration of patrol and lack of action did seemed to cause fatigue in the crew towards the end.

(P) Personnel

The training program this patrol was similar to that employed last patrol. The unqualified men were divided into small sections and each section was turned over to one of the unqualified officers for instruction. This method has proved advantageous to both the men and officers.

Enroute to the area and on the return voyage, drills were conducted.

(Q) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Majuro to Area 2030 Miles/18767 Gallons

In Area 6182 Miles/39791 Gallons

Area to Pearl 3382 Miles /42113 Gallons

Midway to Pearl 1300 Miles/20400 Gallons

Total 12894 Mile 121071 Gallons

(S) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 6

Days in Area 31

Days Enroute to Base 14

Days Submerged 8

(T) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Torpedoes 24

Fuel (at Midway) 13723 gallons

Provisions 14 days

Personnel 21 days

Limiting Factor of this Patrol:

Fuel and Operation Order.

Remarks:

The lack of shipping contacts in the Palau area was surprising given it's strategic location. The likely and unlikely routes in the approaches North, North West, and West of Palau were extensively patrolled. Although, this is large area and possible to miss approaching/departing shipping. The southern entrance and it's approaches were not patrolled as was another submarines assigned area. This the was first of Drum's previous nine war patrols to return without all twenty four torpedoes aboard, which is quite unfortunate.

Bubblehead1980

07-25-21, 01:41 AM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods.
100 difficulty, cams and map contacts off.

USS Drum SS-228
War Patrol Eleven
9 September-9 November 1944
Area(s) Fish Pond, Briar Patch, Convoy College (Luzon Straits)

Patrol Chart.

https://i.postimg.cc/Y4NBK6nR/patrol11charge.jpg (https://postimg.cc/Y4NBK6nR)

(A) Prologue

Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H., from tenth war patrol on August 16, 1944. Normal refit was accomplished by Submarine Base. Executive Officer, LT V. McDonald USN detached.LT (JG) G.L. Romano USN detached.LT A.N. Callaghan USN moved up to position as Executive Officer. Ensigns N. Conaway, and V. Ballantine USN reported aboard.
SBT-1 decoy launcher installed. Ready for sea September 9, 1944.

(B) Narrative

9 September-

1330-Departed Pearl Harbor for patrol area Fish Pond via Saipan.

1628-Trim Dive.

1655-Surfaced.

10-18 September-

En route Saipan.

19 September-

1600-Dock at Saipan, refuel.

24 September-

0000-Arrived in patrol area Fish Pond off Leyte Gulf/Surigao Strait, P.I.

30 September-Arrived in patrol area Briar Patch off San Bernadino Strait, P.I.

3 October-

0000-Set course for new patrol area in Luzon Strait(Convoy College)

5 October

0500-Entered Area Convoy College

9 October-

0202-Received ULTRA regarding German U-Boat en route from Tokyo-Singapore.

10-12 October- Attempted to make contact with reported U boat.

13 October-

1750-SJ contacts bearing 006 14 NM. 21 0 N 119 10 E PPI shows large convoy.

1755-General Quarters

1803-Smoke sighted on horizon 340-000 degrees.

1804-Submerged for attack.

1830-Infiltrated forward screen of convoy. Convoy is five large columns.

1855- Prepared to fire stern tubes at large troopship in center column when convoy zigged, ruining the shot.

1858-ATTACK NO. 1 Large AK crossed 1000 yards in front of Drum. Fired four MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:900 AOB: 70 Torpedo Depth: 10 feet POA: MOT

All three torpedoes hit astern of midships area, believe estimated speed was slightly off. Vessel quickly slowed and caught fire.

1900-HAKUSIKA MARU 8365 tons sunk 21 04 N 119 06 E

1902-Escorts closing fast multiple directions. Ordered Drum to 300 feet, silent running, rigged for depth charge.

1905-As Drum passed 270 feet heard loud buzzing possibly of low flying aircraft, followed by four large explosions which shook Drum, no damage reported. Believe this was previously undetected convoy air support as no escorts were in a firing position at this time.

1910-Escort pinging. SBT decoy deployed.

1911- Escort overhead. SBT decoy deployed. Multiple large explosions astern of Drum.

1914-Same buzzing and Distant explosions. Believe from low flying aircraft aircraft.

1926-Multiple depth charge explosions, distant. Believe escorts attacking decoy.

1930-Pinging.

1945-Explosions overhead. Believe from aircraft as no escorts near by. Possible spotted by low flying aircraft.

1949-More explosions above. Likely from aircraft.

2100-Secured General Quarters.

2355-Surfaced for end around.

14 October-

0216-Regained SJ contact with convoy bearing 003 15 NM. 20 33 N 118 59 E

0345-General Quarters-Surface Torpedo.

0419-ATTACK NO. 2 Fired six MK 23 torpedoes on surface at two targets. Range: 3800/3200 AOB: 72/86 Torpedo depth 10 feet POA:MOT

0421-Three torpedoes impacted first target. Large explosions and fires, target broken in half. Escort at 1800 yards spotted. Drum under heavy fire during turn away. Shell splashes close, Drum submerged under heavy fire. KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk 20 01 N 118 50 E.

0423-Rigged for silent running and depth charge. Thermal layer at 200 feet. SBT decoy deployed at 160 feet.

0425-Depth charge explosions, close.

0645-Periscope depth. SJ SD sweep all clear.

0700-Surfaced. Secured General Quarters.

0714-SD contact 6 NM steady. Night flyer patrolling area of attack.

1108-SD contact 13 NM closing. Submerged to avoid.

2200-Surfaced

15 October-

Storms in area.

16 October-

1345- Two SD contacts closing fast 9 NM. Submerged. 19 50 N 118 18 E

1348-Multiple large explosions above Drum.

2200-Surfaced

17 October-

1908-SD Contact 6 NM closing fast.20 45 N 118 52 E.Visually Identified "BETTY" bomber bearing 212 degrees, altitude (estimated) 1500 feet range 9000 yards (estimated). Drum submerged.

1909-Passing depth of 125 feet, a series of explosions rocked the boat, minor damage reported(see damage section)

18 October-

1620-SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged to avoid

1622-Drum at 165 feet, four large explosions above, depth charged/bombed by aircraft. No damage.

1625-380 feet. Waters are calm and clear. No further explosions.

20 October-

0900-Submerged.

1400-SJ contact bearing 032 14 NM.

1424-Smoke on horizon bearing 001.

1425-General Quarters

1444-Target appears to be lone AK. course 090 7 knots.

1451-Vessel is possible ASW decoy. Distant prop sounds heard bearing 090 and 270. Sweep with SD antenna revealed aircraft contact at 10 NM closing fast. Drum went to 125 feet.

1508-Periscope depth. Turned for attack with stern tubes.

1520-Target identified as SANYO MARU 4252 tons.

1524- Target course 090 7 knots.

1529 - ATTACK NO. 3 Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 7,8,9. Range:1460 yards AOB: 75 Torpedo Depth:10 POA:MOT

1531- All torpedoes hit as aimed large fires amidships and stern.

1533-Crew seen abandoning in rafts. Ship appears to be settling rapidly on even keel.

1535-Vessel took down angle by stern. SANYO MARU 4252 tons sunk 21 23 N 119 33 E.

1542-Depth 200 feet. Secure General Quarters. Reload stern tubes.

1600-Fast screws heard in area of sinking astern estimated range five nautical miles.

1350-SJ contacts bearing 355 14 NM. 21 16 N 118 53 E

1355-Rapid bearing change and disposition of contacts on PPI suggest high speed vessels, possibly task force.

1401- Masts of warships spotted 082 degrees 7 NM.

1402-Submerged for attack. Contact Report sent. Task Force sighted. DD (lead) two CA, one CL (body) one DD (trailing) 21 17 N 118 50 E Course 180 25.5 knots.

1417- 1,600 yards off track for stern tube attack. DD leading CA and CL.

1422-ATTACK NO 4. Fired four MK 18 torpedoes at Myoko Class CA. Range: 1650 yds. AOB:70 Torpedo depth:10 ft POA:MOT, MOT, Fore turret, Aft turret

1426-All torpedoes missed. Sound check revealed missed astern. Possible TF increased speed.

1430-Depth: 350 ft. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent running.

1440-No pinging or apparent course change. Task Force appears unaware of attack.

1600-Secured General Quarters

2100-Surfaced.

23 October-

1740-Submerged to avoid SD contact closing from ten nautical miles, fast. 20 20 N 118 25 E.

2032-Sound contact, distant props 032 degrees.

2037-Surfaced. Course 195 towards sound contacts.

2044-SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged to avoid.

2052-Radar depth. SD contact 8 NM, range opening. SJ contacts bearing 348 degrees 14 NM.

2058-Surfaced.

2103-PPI shows convoy of four ships in single column with three escorts. Lead, port and starboard flank.

2112-Convoy zigged to west. Estimated heading now 005.

2115-General Quarters.

2117-SD contact 10 NM closing.

2118-Submerged for attack.

2124- Depth 350 feet. Closing estimated firing position at 8 knots.

2137 periscope depth.

2138-Smoke sighted bearing 000 estimated range 5 NM.

2216- Convoy is one large and three mid sized AK in single column. Three escorts. Lead escort is Mikura (Type B) class escort.

2239 - ATTACK NO. 5- Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:1300 AOB: 90 Torpedo Depth: 10 ft POA : MOT, Fore Mast, Aft Mast

2240-All torpedoes impacted as aimed. Ship left on fire bow to stern, masts collapsed, ship began to settle.

2241- Escorts closing both beams, pinging. Drum to 300 feet. Rigged for Depth Charge and silent running.

2242-Passed thermal layer at 200 feet.

2243-KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk 20 08 N 118 24 E.

2245- Escort overhead. Many DC splashes. SBT-1 decoy deployed

2246- Drum at 350 feet. Many DC explosions. Boat shaken. Damage report(see damage section) SBT- 1 decoy deployed

2250-Many DC explosions, escorts focusing on decoys astern of Drum. Boat is at depth of 375 feet.

2304-Pinging.

2315-Depth charge explosions above.

2345-Escorts appear to have lost contact with Drun.

24 October-

0034-Periscope depth. All clear.

0035-Radar depth. SJ contact 8800 yards astern. Likely "sleeper" escort. Convoy is 10 NM bearing 155.

0037-Surfaced.

0039-Escort underway turned towards Drum. Possibly heard blowing tanks.

0045-Escort turned back. Course 340 for end around.

0053-Secured General Quarters. Final reserve torpedo (MK 23) ordered loaded into tube 3. Three MK 14 torpedoes remain forward (Tubes 4,5,6) with one MK 18 in stern tube (Tube 7)

0143- General Quarters. Surface torpedo attack.

0155-Closing from port flank of convoy.

0211-ATTACK NO 6. Fired one MK 23 and One MK 14 torpedo from tubes 3 and 4. Range: 1900 yards AOB 80 Torpedo Depth: 6 feet POA MOT.

Both torpedoes impacted forward of bridge area Large hole visible at waterline, fire but vessel is underway but lagging behind. Moving in to finish off with remaining stern torpedo.

0234-ATTACK NO. 6(a) Fired one MK 18 torpedo from stern tube (7) Range:1800 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth: 6 feet POT MOT.

Drum under fire from nearby merchants and escorts.

0240- MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons sunk 20 16 N 118 35 E

0244-Secure General Quarters. Start end around.

0415-SJ contact bearing 352 12 NM. APR-1 detected radar emissions. Believe this is ASW patrol searching area for Drum. Evaded

0447-SD contact 8 NM closing fast. Submerged.

0540-SJ contact regained with convoy. Bearing 004 15 NM. 20 28 N 118 40 E

0604-General Quarters.

0612-Due to moonlight, and improved visibility, submerged for attack.

0629-Pinging. Drum detected by lead escort. Escort closing fast. Drum to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge silent running.

0630-SBT-1 decoy deployed . Thermal layer 185 feet.

0632-Many DC splashes. Explosions. Damage reported(See damage section)

0633-SBT-1 decoy deployed.

0634-Many DC explosions astern at decoy site.

0637-Escort pinging.

0650-Escort above.

0651-DC explosions. Close. No damage reported.

0654-Pinging.

0658-DC explosion

0707-DC explosions, close.

0900-Lost contact with enemy.

1018-Surfaced.Secured General Quarters.

1200-Position: 20 25 N 118 20 E. Torpedoes Remaining: Mark 14 x 2.

31 October-

0930-Spotted life raft with survivors

0945-Rescued six survivors in raft at 19 57 N 118 50 E. Survivors were British/Australian POW's aboard the HAKUSIKA MARU sunk by Drum on 13 October.

2 November-

0000-Departed patrol area, set course for Majuro Atoll.

9 November-

1600-Arrived Majuro Atoll. Terminated patrol.

(C) In the Suriago and San Bernadino Strait areas, the weather was generally overcast with a gentle to moderate breeze. Condition 2 to 3 sea was average, with visibility only fair.

In the Luzon Strait area of the South China Sea, the predominant characteristic of the weather was the consistent moderate to fresh breeze from the northeast, with a condition 3 to 4 sea. The average cloud cover was from 0.2 to 0.6. Visibility was good.

In the two days spent in the northwest section of the area, in the lee of Formosa, the wind dropped to a gentle breeze and the sea to condition 2.

(D) Tidal Information

Tides and sea states were generally calm, overall for most of the patrol.

(E) Navigational Aids

Suluan Light on Suluan Island at the entrance to Suriago Strait was not lighted. This was the only lighthouse sighted.

Balintang Channel was easily traversed using the SJ radar; Balintang, Batan, and Babuyan Islands all offering good targets.

(F) Attack Data

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 11

Time: 1900 Date: 13 October 1944 Location: Lat. .21 04 N Lon. 119 06 E

Description:

Large Northbound convoy in five columns roughly 1000 yards between ships and 2000 yards between columns. Infiltrated forward screen for submerged attack. Initial set up was on large troopship in port center column. Convoy made a zig which ruined the setup. However, a large AK crossed just 1000 yards in front of Drum presenting ideal setup for torpedo attack.

Three MK 23 torpedoes were fired from tubes 1,2, and 3. Range: 900 yards AOB: 70 Torpedo Depth: 10 feet POA: MOT

Ships Sunk:

HAKUSIKA MARU 8365 tons. 21 04 N 119 06 E

None.

Ships Damaged or Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:
Visual confirmation of torpedo impacts, listing of vessel, and sound confirmed sinking. Upon surfacing large debris field visible.

None.

Target Draft 27 feet, Course 345°, Speed 7 knots, Range 3200 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 350 degrees, Depth: 64 feet.

Type Attack

Submerged daytime periscope attack. Convoy tracked using SJ radar until submerging for attack. Torpedoes fired using TDC, solved target course and speed, radar ranges and periscope bearings.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 11

Time: 0419 Date: 14 October 1944 Lat. 20 01 N Lon. 118 50 E.

Description:

After end around, follow up night surface attack on large convoy previously attacked (Attack No. 1). Fired six MK 23 torpedoes at two targets. Range:2300/2500 yards AOB:70/86. After torpedo six left tube began turn away. Drum came under heavy gunfire after torpedo impact. Due to close range of an escort and heavy volume of fire, submerged to avoid.

Ships Sunk:

KIGAN MARU 7390 tons 20 01 N 118 50 E

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Observed three torpedo impacts on target. Large fires visible and ship sinking.

Target Draft 25 feet, Course 060°, Speed 8 knots, Range 2300 yards.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 160°, Depth: Surfaced

Type Attack

Night surface torpedo attack. Fired six MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 1-6.Three missed first target, three impacted the second target.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3 Patrol No. 11

Time: 1529 Date: 20 October 1944 Lat. 21 23 N Long. 119 33 E

Description:

Lone merchant contact. As this is unusual for enemy vessels to be sailing open waters without escort, along with SD Contacts and fast prop sounds in distance, believed this to be possible ASW decoy as noted in previous patrol reports of other boats.

Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from stern tubes 7,8,9. Range:1460 yards AOB: 75 Torpedo Depth:10 POA:MOT

Ships Sunk:

SANYO MARU 4252 tons sunk

Ships Sunk or Probably Sunk:
None

Damage Determined By:

Observed all three torpedoes impact target. Target caught fire and settled with a port list. Observed target sink through periscope at 21 23 N 119 33 E.

Target Draft 25 feet, Course 240°, Speed 7 knots, Range 1460 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 005°, Depth: 64 feet

Type Attack

Submerged daytime periscope attack with MK 18 electric torpedoes in stern tubes.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 4 Patrol No. 11

Time: 1422 Date: 20 October 1944 ask Force sighted. 21 17 N 118 50 E

Description:

Shortly after Attack No 3, sound picked up heavy fast screws. Upon investigation in bearing of contact, SJ made contact. Contact developed into a task force with two CA, one CL, two DD in single column with 1000 yard spacing. Estimated course/speed 180 degrees 25.5 knots.

Fired four MK 18 torpedoes at Myoko Class CA. Range: 1650 yds. AOB:70 Torpedo depth:10 feet POA:MOT, MOT, Fore turret, Aft turret

Ships Sunk:

None

Ships Sunk or Probably Sunk:
None

Damage Determined By:

None

Target Draft 20 feet, Course 180, Speed 25.5 knots, Range 1650 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 090°, Depth: 64 feet

Type Attack

Submerged daytime periscope attack with four MK 18 electric torpedoes from stern tubes.

Torpedoes missed, possibly due to task force increasing speed after torpedoes were fired. Targets were not alerted thanks to lack of visible wake from MK 18 torpedoes.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 5 Patrol No. 11

Time: 2239 Date: 23 October 1944 Lat. 20 08 N Long. 118 24 E

Description:

Four ship , three escort convoy. Convoy is single column 1200 yards spacing.
At 2239 Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:1300 AOB: 90 Torpedo Depth: 10 ft POA : MOT, Fore Mast, Aft Mast

Ships Sunk:
KIGAN MARU class AK

Ships Damaged:
none

Damage Determined By:
Visually observed torpedoes hit through periscope. Target left on fire bow to stern, masts collapsed, ship began to settle. KIGAN MARU sunk

Target Draft 22 feet, Course 215°, Speed 7.5 knots, Range 2100 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 355° - 348°, Depth 62 feet

Type Attack

Submerged periscope attack.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack(s) No. 6 and 6(a) Patrol No. 11

Time: 0211 and 0234(A) Date: 24 October 1944. Lat. 20 16 N Long. 118 35 E

Description:

Same convoy as Attack No. 5. Surfaced after dark and escaping depth charges for end around. A "sleeper" at 5600 yards heard Drum surfacing and headed for Drum but did not visually identify the boat and soon gave up pursuit. Turn to NNE for end around. Gained position on (surprisingly) unguard port flank of the convoy which was now on base course of 030 at 6 knots. The remaining ships were constant helming making tracking somewhat difficult.

By 0211 was in position and fired one MK 23 and One MK 14 torpedo from tubes 3 and 4. Range: 1900 yards AOB 80 Torpedo Depth: 6 feet POA MOT. Both torpedoes impacted

6(a) Fired one MK 18 torpedo from stern tube (7) Range:1800 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth: 6 feet POT MOT.

Ships Sunk:

#6(a): MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons

Ships damaged:

#6 MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons

Damage Determined By:

#6 Observed both torpedoes impact target, leaving a large visible hole at waterline just forward of midships area. Large fires burned for over 30 minutes. However, target did not lose way and continued with rest of convoy. Drum had to open range due to escort and sporadic gunfire. Began closing to setup for a shot to finish off the target.

#6(a) Observed torpedo impact. Large explosion, likely the boilers. Ship settled and quickly sunk.

6: Target Draft 22 feet, Course 030°, Speed 6 knots, Range 1900 yds.
6(a): Target Draft 18 feet, Course 355°, Speed 6 knots, Range 1800 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 095° - 348°, Depth :Surface

Type Attack:

Both attacks 6 and 6 (A) were surface attacks. The night was quite dark and seemed to conceal Drum for the most part. The APR-1 did not detect any radar emissions .

(G) Mines

While in Area Brian Patch, attempted to approach the entrances to Leyte Gulf for possible patrol in Surigao Strait. However, large minefields observe d 10 52 N 125 42 E. Mines ran roughly North to South in the navigable areas of the channel. A similar field was spotted at 10 33 N 125 42 E. This effectively sealed off known entrances to the gulf from the Philippine Sea. While there are likely unmined areas used by local traffic, they are unknown. Drum was unable to determine these passages and remain safe from shore batteries and observation posts.

(H) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasion Tactics

Enemy ASW air patrols in areas Briar Patch and Fish Pond were steady, forcing a daily dive, sometimes more. No surface patrols were encountered. Radar emissions were registered on the APR-1 from each SD contact.

Enemy ASW air activity in the Convoy College area is best described as intense with both day and night time air patrols. These aircraft were all apparently radar equipped.

The air cover for the convoy attacked on 13 October (Attack No.1) was particularly effective and continued to detect Drum even once submerged to deep depth. Aircraft continued flying so low could be heard overhead and bombed Drum while submerged at 270 and 380 foot depth. This aircraft apparently directed escorts onto Drum's location. This was an impressive piece of air-sea ASW coordination.

Surface patrols were encountered on SJ radar but none visually.

Enemy convoys were heavily escorted with a minimum of three but usually four or five escorts covering all sectors of the convoy. Task Force was escorted by two fleet type destroyers believed to be Kagero Class. Their high speed likely explains why Drum was not detected nor her inbound torpedoes and lack of ASW response. The high speed itself and the change in speed without a zig proved to save the task force from disaster.

Believe this task force was one later reported to be involved in the night surface engagement with our fleet in the Surigao Strait 25 October.

Evasion tactics were fairly standard with running silent and at depth of 300-400 feet typically. The SBT-1 decoy proved invaluable during this patrol was it confused enemy sonar and permitted Drum to escape most of the depth charge barrages.

(I) Major Defects and Damage

17 October-Aerial Bombing

Several close aerial bombs/depth charges from aircraft exploded as Drum passed 125 feet. Minor damage incurred: Damage to aft batteries. Minor leaks in water and air lines throughout boat. Repaired at sea.

23 October- Depth charge attack # 2

At 2246 hours, while at a depth of 350 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge, several large depth charge explosions occurred near the Drum on starboard side and above and just below stern. . Trim and hydraulic pumps took moderate damage, forward and aft batteries, electric motors, port prop shaft. Water and air lines leaking. Stern torpedo tubes damaged.

All damage repaired at sea within 48 hours.

24 October- Depth Charge Attack #3

0632 multiple depth charge explosions caused flooding in forward engine room with serious damage to No 1 and 3 electric engines. Aft batteries, rudder and stern plane transmissions damaged. Air and water line leaks throughout boat. No 1 and No 2 periscopes damaged. All damage repaired within 48 hours except for No.1 and No 3 electric motors. Complete repairs to the motors unable to be completed at sea. Submerged speed limited to 7.8 knots for remainder of patrol.

(J) Radio

Radio performance during this patrol was optimal.

(K) Radar

SJ radar performed well, typically detecting targets at 14-15 nautical miles.

SD Radar performance was overall excellent typically detecting targets at 11 nautical miles. However, it was observed against planes flying below 1000 feet the detection range dropped 6-7 nautical miles. Without SD radar, surfaced patrol would be close to impossible due to heavy air activity in Luzon Straits.

(L) Sound Gear and Conditions

Sound conditions were average to excellent in patrol areas. The detection of the task force was made at extreme range.

(M) Thermal layers

Thermal layers were common in the waters of Luzon Straits and detected at depths varying from 150-280 feet.

(N) Health and Habitability

Health and morale of the crew was excellent with habitability remaining excellent on this sixty day war patrol.

(O) Personnel

Personnel performance on this patrol was excellent, as demonstrated by the six confirmed sinkings.

(Q) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Pearl to Area 5611 Miles 60377 Gallons
In Area 4868 Miles 34165 Gallons
Area to Majuro 4346 Miles 56561 Gallons
Total 14325 Miles 151103 Gallons

(R) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 17
Days in Area 30
Days Enroute to Base 13
Days Submerged 11
Total 60

(T) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Torpedoes 2
Fuel 8500 gallons
Provisions 10 days
Personnel 10 days

Limiting Factor of This Patrol:

Remaining fuel.

(U) Radio and Radar Countermeasures

APR-1 detected numerous radar emissions from enemy aircraft throughout the patrol. Only once were transmissions detected from enemy surface vessels. It is believed that the surface search radar is still not common for enemy escorts.

(V) Remarks

Rescue of Allied POW's:

On 30 October at 0930, lookouts spotted a life raft at bearing 001 degrees roughly four nautical miles away. Closed raft with caution and by 0945, was along side. The raft contained six Allied POW's(four Australian and two British) who were aboard a ship sunk on 13 October by Drum. The area was searched for others but none were located.

Rescue location:9 57 N 118 50 E

Torpedo performance was excellent on this patrol. While the MK 18 has a clear advantage of lacking a wake, it's limited speed can make shots against high speed targets such as the heavy cruiser missed on 20 October a challenge.

With five ships and an estimated 31,450 tons sunk, this was a excellent patrol, Drum's best to date.

Mork_417

08-01-21, 09:25 PM

USS Porpoise (SS-172)
January 19, 1942
(First patrol in FotRSU 1.46)

https://i.imgur.com/s10UZHp.jpg

Currently en route to the Briar Patch & Pasture patrol area near Luzon.

https://i.imgur.com/GeMXkvf.jpg

Passing thru the Makassar Strait, I came across some drunken sailors making a mess of things. :har:

https://i.imgur.com/wl29JKT.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/iQkEket.jpg

Decided to pass them a good bit to the North, and pretend I saw nothing! :arrgh!:

propbeanie

08-01-21, 11:08 PM

That would be the AS-20 Otus and its Clemson DD escort, which left Manila on 10 December, 1941, and should be in either Albany, Australia or Tlatjap or Soerabaja, DEI... I can't remember which... There are no US flags on either ship, which brings the question "did you empty your Save folder before starting the game?" Those two were probably "stealing" a good bit of your computer's clock cycles... :salute:

Mork_417

08-02-21, 08:47 PM

There are no US flags on either ship,

They're there. I enlarged & brightened the screenshot...

https://i.imgur.com/0dgGT2o.jpg

propbeanie

08-03-21, 08:11 PM

Ah-ha! would you believe the old flag hidden in the dark of the waves trick? lol

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eA0Uyioqyg

Kal_Maximus_U669

08-13-21, 06:42 PM

http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897652-sh4img-2021-07-12-15-59-58-843.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897662-sh4img-2021-07-12-16-00-29-896.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897673-sh4img-2021-07-12-16-09-55-962.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897681-sh4img-2021-07-12-16-10-19-122.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897687-sh4img-2021-07-12-16-11-25-053.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897693-sh4img-2021-08-06-00-47-01-185.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897699-sh4img-2021-08-08-02-48-04-418.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897728-sh4img-2021-08-08-02-48-23-719.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897733-sh4img-2021-08-08-02-57-55-055.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897738-sh4img-2021-08-08-02-58-10-588.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897742-sh4img-2021-08-08-03-00-45-781.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897757-sh4img-2021-08-11-01-41-18-990.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897765-sh4img-2021-08-11-01-47-13-969.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628898452-sh4img-2021-08-08-02-59-46-409.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897668-sh4img-2021-07-12-16-04-49-930.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/32/6/1628897772-sh4img-2021-08-08-03-03-01-818.png
:up::D:salute::salute::salute:

Bubblehead1980

09-16-21, 04:48 PM

Kal_Maximus_U669

09-17-21, 06:13 AM

Bubblehead1980

09-20-21, 06:08 AM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
100 difficulty. Cams off, contacts on.
USS Drum SS-228
War Patrol Report
Twelfth War Patrol
7 December 1944-10 January 1945

https://i.postimg.cc/wvndGxWC/combatinsignia.png (https://postimages.org/)

(A) Prologue

Terminated Eleventh War Patrol at Majuro Atoll on 9 December 1944. Regular refit conducted by Submarine Tender USS Howard Gilmore. LCDR F.M. Eddy USN relieved LCDR M.H. Rindskopf USN as Commanding Officer. Ensign W. M. James USN reported aboard. Ensign V.B. Ballantine detached. Ready for sea 7 December 1944.

(B) Narrative

7 December-

0700- Depart Majuro for Area 12 (Yellow Sea) via Saipan.

0900-Trim Dive.

0917-Surfaced

11 December-

0600-1100- Refueled at Saipan.

17 December-

1200-Entered patrol area.

20 December-

1513- SD contact. 15 NM closing. 33 30 N 124 40 E

1515-Submerged.

1630-Surfaced.

21 December-

2214- SJ contacts bearing 229 15 NM. 33 21 N 125 21 E

2225-General Quarters. Torpedo Attack-Surface.

2228-PPI read out indicates large convoy, 10+ ships in two columns with 5-6 escorts forming defensive circle around columns.

2236-APR-1 detected radar emissions from convoy bearing.

2251- Convoy sighted. 33 23 N 125 27 E Estimated Course/Speed 228 degrees 9 knots.

2255- Exploiting a gap in screen on port side, caused by an escort making a wide "sweep" , moved in to attack port column.

2304:01-The "sweeping" escort suddenly began a high speed run back towards the convoy. APR-1 detected radar emissions from that direction. Lookouts identified a fleet type DD, possibly Yagumo Class.

2305:45-Fired six MK 18 torpedoes (ATTACK No.1)

Unable to outrun the closing DD on surface, ordered a dive.

2306-All six torpedoes impacted as aimed. Both vessels suffered large explosions and were seen on fire from bow to stern, sinking quickly. Sound confirmed breaking up noises.

SHAJIMA MARU 6652 tons sunk. MOMOYAMA MARU 4239 tons sunk.

2307-Rigged for depth charge and silent running. Enemy DD closing from astern, another off the bow. Pinging on long scale audible. Passed thermal layer. SBT-1 decoys deployed

2309-Depth charge explosions astern, DD must have made false contact as were not close to Drum.

2311-Escort closing from 260 degrees, short scale pinging.

2312-Loud explosions of depth charge launchers overhead, multiple splashes audible. Explosions. Drum depth: 260 feet.

2313-DD above, dropped pattern. Explosions astern. SBT-1 decoy released.

2322-Many DC explosions astern.

2330-Believe combination of choppy seas, multiple SBT decoys, noises of sinking vessels, thermal layer, and disturbances combined to shield drum from enemy sound and echo ranging gear, preventing a solid counter attack.

2348-Periscope depth. Sweep shows DD astern 5000 yards. A "sleeper" escort bearing 070 3000 yards. Drum back to 250 feet.

22 December-

0020-Sound reports all clear.

0023-Periscope Depth. No enemy vessels within 5000 yards.

0024-Surfaced. Course 230 degrees to pull ahead for follow up attack.

0025-Secure General Quarters. Forward tubes ordered reloaded. Tubes 1-4 will have MK 14steam torpedoes, tubes 5 and 6 MK 18.

0140-Quarter moon set. Visibility decreased.

0215-Torpedo reload completed.

0223:12-Battery recharge completed.

0223:54- SJ contact reestablished bearing 007 14 NM. 33 15 N 125 10 E

0235-General Quarters-Torpedo Surface

0250-APR-1 detecting radar emissions from convoy bearing.

0252- Convoy sighted. 33 16 N 125 17 E Estimated course/speed 217 degrees 9 knots.

0300-Fired four MK14 torpedoes at two mid sized AK. ATTACK No. 2

0303-Torpedoes impacted both targets. Target 1 (MADRAS MARU) immediately exploded and began to sink. Target 2 (WATANABE MARU) absorbed torpedo just aft of stack. Fire and smoke seen visible with a slight stern, listing but underway.

Escort vessel spotted Drum 20 seconds after torpedo impact and shined spotlight . Range 1800 yards. The MS type vessel opened fire with main battery and auto-cannon/machine gun fire but Drum was not hit. Overload added to engines, Drum made 22 knots during the escape under intense fire, with multiple splashes, closest being about 25 yards with three escort type vessels trailing. Drum quickly left these vessels behind. The DD previously encountered was not spotted not further radar emissions detected, oddly enough.

0305-MADRAS MARU 3805 tons sunk.

0439-WATANABE MARU dead in water but afloat. Closed to finish vessel off. Closest escort 6000 yards off.

0440-Attack No. 2(A) Fired one MK 18 torpedo from stern tube(#7)

0441-Torpedo impacted as aimed under stack on port side of target. Large fire began burning

0442-Vessel began to list heavily to port.

0444-WATANABE MARU 3646 tons sunk.

0445- With four ships confirmed sunk, eleven torpedoes expended, and no time for follow up surface attack before dawn or end around for submerged attack before convoy departed assigned area, Drum broke contact for deeper waters as come daybreak intense enemy patrols in area of attacks could be expected. Plan to submerge at dawn for day of submerged maintenance, and rest.

0500-Secure General Quarters.

0800-Submerged for day.

2000-Surfaced.

23 December- Moved into Yellow Sea. Patrolling off Souh-West coast Korea by day, closed coastal shallows at night to interdict traffic using shallows for protection.

2145-SJ contact. Bearing 356 13 NM. 35 14 N 125 49 E

2150-PPI readout indicates small convoy. One ship encircled by four escorts.

2217-Small convoy sighted. 35 08 N 125 49 E Estimated speed course 030 degrees 8 knots.

2222-Target identified as large tanker. Estimated 8000-10000 tons.

2233-Attack No.3 Target identified as NIPPON MARU class tanker 10000 tons. Setup to fire four MK 18 from stern tubes. Range 2800 AOB 75 POA MOT Torpedo Depth: 10 feet. Fired tubes 7,8 nd was detected by enemy escort. Turned away at high speed. Both torpedoes missed as target took evasive action.

Evaded escorts with high speed run. Three escorts continued hunting in the area, sweeping with searchlights and star shells. A few depth charges were dropped, which was odd considering max depth was 50 feet.

Pulled ahead of tanker, now covered by one Minesweeper type escort. Closed for a stern shot.

2332-Attack No. 4- Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from stern tubes on zig zagging target. As target began zig to port presenting broadsides for hit, opened fired.

2333-All three torpedoes hit, setting off massive explosion of tanker. Tanker obviously loaded with fuel. Explosion caused tanker to break into two.

NIPPON MARU 10000 tons sunk.

2234-APR-1 detected previously undetected radar emissions from escorts bearing. Possible enemy radar was turned off.

24 December-

0130- 200 feet below keel. Secure General Quarters.

0200-Course set to Western Yellow Sea/Chinese coast. Eight (MK 18 )torpedoes remaining(six forward, two aft)

1000-Submerged

2216-Surfaced.

25 December-

1321-SJ contact bearing 320 14 NM. 36 26 N 121 42 E.

1351-Smoke sighted. Appears to be unescorted merchant.

1400-Submerged for attack.

1439- ATTACK No. 4 Fired two MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 1 and 2. Second torpedo suffered an apparent gyro failure as it veered far off bearing. First torpedo ran hot, straight and normal.Torpedo #1 impacted as aimed. Large explosion apparently blowing out boilers. Engines on target stopped. Target began list to starboard.

1446-Target dead in the water.

1506-Surfaced. Battle Surface-Gun Action No. 1

1507-Opened fire with 4 inch deck gun from 4500 yards.

1509- Cease fired. Vessel on fire and began to rapidly sink.

1510-AKITA MARU type AK 3936 tons sunk.

1511-Set easterly course away from China coast in case of responding patrols.

26 December-

1633- SD contact 7 NM closing 36 39 N 123 39 E. Submerged to avoid.

28 December-

1101- SD contact 10 NM. 36 54 N 123 50 E.

1240-Periscope depth. sweep with SD antenna. SD contact 9 NM closing. Ordered depth 220 feet (12 ft off bottom). Aircraft apparently spotted Drum while at depth, several large dc explosions, one fairly close as boat was shaken, no damage.

2000-Surfaced.

29 December-

Continued patrolling the Inchon-Qingdao shipping lanes in Northern Yellow Sea.

30 December-

0000-Set course for Korean coast.

1100-Storms.

31 December-

0200-Storms cleared. Position: 35 50 N 125 0 E

1 January 1945-

0030- Position:34 10 N 124 0 E Yellow Sea. En route to Shanghai-Japan sea lanes in Southern Yellow Sea.

2 January- Patrolled Shanghai-Japan sea lanes.

3 January-

0755-Spotted group of fishing boats. 33 17 N125 19 E. Shadowing until dawn for gun action.

0855-General Quarters. Battle Surface-All guns.Began closing from astern of fishing boats.

0902-GUN ACTION No. 2- Opened fire with 4 inch and 20 mm guns from 2400 yards. Four inch gun scored successive two hits setting vessel afire. 20 MM forward scored hits. Enemy vessel retired automatic gunfire.

0903-Fishing boat 200 tons (estimated) sunk 33 15 N 125 27 E. Exploded after two more four inch hits and multiple 20 MM hits.

0910-Sunk fishing boat estimated 200 tons by gunfire. 33 15 N 127 29 E

0917 Sunk fishing boat estimated 200 tons by gunfire. 33 15 N 127 29 E

0922 Fishing boat sunk estimated 200 tons gun gunfire. 33 15 N 125 32 E. Cease fire. All targets sunk.

0925- Secure General Quarters.

4 January-

1954- SJ contact 337 degrees 13 NM. 33 16 N 124 53E.

2000-PPI indicates convoy in single long column 6-7 ships with 5 escorts in semi circle. Est course 040.

2014- Smoke sighted 070 degrees.

2110-Convoy zigged to east.

2112-General Quarters. Torpedo-Surface.

2136-APR-1 detecting radar signals.

2139-Convoy sighted. 33 12 N 125 01 E. Estimated Course/Speed 104 degrees 9 knots.

2154-Indentified target as large tanker possibly 8000-1000 tons. Third in column. ( Escort MS, AK, AK, AO, AO, AO)

2204- ATTACK NO. 5- Fired four MK 18 torpedoes.

2206-Four torpedoes impacted large tanker as aimed, setting off massive secondary explosions, tanker likely loaded with fuel/oil as was inbound to home islands.

Enemy escorts closed, fired star shells fired, radar emissions fixed toward area. Drum slid through a gap of about 2500 yards between port flank escorts as they searched area. The dark of night hid Drum well, covering her escape.

2208-NIPPON MARU class tanker 10000 tons sunk.All forward torpedoes expended. Two torpedoes remain aft in tubes 9,10.

5 January-

Convoy reformed into defensive formation, small columns with moderately spaced screen.

0113-ATTACK No. 6- Position inside screen on starboard side of convoy. Fired two MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 9 and 10.

0114- Escort just 1800 yards astern, turned Drum to present stern and increased speed to open range and exit screen.

0115-Both torpedoes impacted as aimed on small tanker. After first torpedo hit, tanker erupted in a massive fireball, secondary torpedo caused tanker to quickly settle and go adrift.

0116-Escorts detected Drum. Drum came under heavy deck guns and auto-cannon, machine gun fire. No hits, but one shell splash was a bit too close for comfort(Five yards) in amidships area. Rest of fire was erratic and inaccurate. The dark of night again provided excellent cover for Drum as she escaped on the surface with engines on overload producing 22.5 knots, leaving escorts behind.

0130-Quarter moon began to rise.

0202-Secure General Quarters. All torpedoes expended, set course for Guam.

10 December-

0830-Arrived Guam. Terminated patrol.

(C) Weather

Weather for most of the patrol was overall favorable both during the transit and in patrol area. The storms of 31 December/1 January produced heavy seas ranging with swells of 10-14 feet, heavy fog, precipitation, and winds. While the winds, seas subsided, the light fog and drizzle remained for remainder of time in patrol area. This fog and rain along with a dark night provided excellent cover for the night surface attack(Attacks No. 5 and 6) of 4/5 January.

(D) Tidal Information

The currents encountered in the areas around the Nansei Shoto group and in the Yellow Sea corresponded to those predicted by the pilot charts, current charts, and coast pilots. The effort of the Kuroshio was felt both east and west of the islands and it was noted that as the force of the northerly wind increased, the set due to the Kuroshio decreased.

(E) The only lighthouse sighted was Sotsuko Zaki Light on Amami O Shima. It was not illuminated.

(F) Aircraft Contacts

No aircraft were visually sighted but several were detected on SD radar.

Date Time Type Range Position Additional
1.) 12/20/1944 1513 SD 15 NM 33 30 N 124 40 E Submerged

2.) 12/26/1944 1633 SD 7 NM 36 39 N 123 39 E Submerged

3.) 12/28/1944 1101 SD 10 NM 36 54 N 123 50 E Submerged.

4.) 12/28/1944 1240 SD 9 NM 36 55 N 123 51 E Submerged*

*While at periscope depth, SD antenna was extended for sweep prior to surfacing.SD contact at 9 NM closing fast. Ordered depth of 220 feet (12 ft off bottom). Aircraft apparently spotted Drum while at depth in clear, clear and calm seas as several large explosions occurred in the area, with one fairly close as boat was shaken, no damage.

(G) Attack Data

TORPEDO ATTACKS:

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 12

Time:2305 Date: 21 December 1944 Lat. 33-25 N., Long. 125-27 E.

Description:

Large Convoy consisted of ten ships in two columns with five to six escorts. When forward port flank escort made a wide sweep, left a gap in screen for Drum to move in for attack.

Ships Sunk:

SHAJIMA MARU 6652 Position:33 25 N 125 27 E

MOMOYAMA MARU 4239 tons Position:33 25 N 125 27 E

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually observed impact of torpedoes upon targets from bridge. Observed target burning and listing via periscope with audible sounds of hulls collapsing on sound from appropriate bearings.

Target Drafts estimated at 15 feet, Course 228°, Speed 9 knots, Range 2755/2300 yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 020°, surfaced, Angle 65/75° (at firing)

Type Attack

Night surface attack made in choppy sea. Attack made on largest ships visually observed in convoy. Forced to fire earlier than planned due to "sweeping" enemy DD closed astern at high speed.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 12

Time:0300 Date: 22 December 1944 Lat. 33-16 N., Long. 125-19 E

Description:

Follow up attack on large convoy (ATTACK No. 1) , Convoy reduced to eight ships in two columns with five to six escorts. Fired four MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3,4.

Ships Sunk:

MADRAS MARU 3805 Position:33 16 N 125 19 E

Ships Damaged:

WATANABE MARU 3646 tons.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually observed impact of torpedoes upon targets from bridge. MADRAS MARU burned and quickly sunk. WATANABE MARU was seen afire, listing and moving at slow speed.

Target Drafts estimated at 12 feet, Course 217°, Speed 9 knots, Range 2900/3000 yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 0200°, surfaced, Angle 70/65° (at firing)

Type Attack

Night surface attack made in choppy sea. Attack made on , largest ships visually observed in convoy, which presented best opportunity for torpedo attack.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2 (A) , Patrol No. 12

Time:0440 Date: 22 December 1944 Lat. 33-14 N., Long. 125-19 E

Description:

Follow up attack on damaged AK (ATTACK NO. 2). Upon escaping pursuit of escorts after ATTACK No. 2 , was able to ascertain position of damage vessel via PPI scope as it was distant from rest of vessels. Approached vessel to 5000 yards and backed down for stern shot couple de grace. Target listing and dead in water. Fired one MK 18 torpedo from stern tube.

Ships Sunk:

WATANABE MARU 3646 tons. Position:33 16 N 125 19 E

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually observed impact of torpedo fired upon target from bridge. Observed sinking of WATANABE MARU.

Target Drafts estimated at 12 feet, Course 217°, Speed 0 knots, Range 2000 yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 270°, surfaced, Angle 90° (at firing)

Type Attack

Night surface attack.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3, Patrol No. 12

Time:2233 Date: 22 December 1944 Lat. 35-08 N., Long. 125-49 E 3

Description:

Single 10000 ton tanker later identified as NIPPON MARU class tanker with four escorts transiting shallow waters (max depth 51 feet) off Korean coast. Likely en route from Cheju to Inchon, utilizing cover of night and shallows to avoid submarine attack.
Fired two MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 7 at position 8 33 16 N 125 19 E

Ships Sunk:
None. Torpedoes missed due to evasive movements, target alerted by escort that detected Drum just after firing of torpedoes.

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

None. Target estimated draft 28 feet. Curse 030 8 knots.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 255°, surfaced, Range 2800 Angle 75° (at firing)

Type Attack

Night surface attack utilizing stern tubes.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 4 , Patrol No. 12

Time:2332 Date: 22 December 1944 Lat. 33-10 N., Long. 125-52 E

Description:

Single 10000 ton tanker later identified as NIPPON MARU class tanker with four escorts transiting shallow waters (max depth 51 feet) off Korean coast. Likely en route from Cheju to Inchon, utilizing cover of night and shallows to avoid submarine attack.
Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from stern tubes 8,9,10.

Ships Sunk:
NIPPON MARU 10000 tons Position:35 10 N 125 52 E.

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually observed all three torpedoes impact target. Massive secondary explosions, tanker likely loaded out with fuel.

Target Draft estimated at 28 feet. Target course/speed 030 8 knots.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 262°, surfaced, Range 1900 Angle 75° (at firing)

Type Attack

Night surface attack utilizing stern tubes.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 5 , Patrol No. 12

Time:1439 Date: 25 December 1944 Lat. 36-26 N., Long. 121-42 E

Description:

Unescorted AK 13 NM off China coast/Shantung promontory, Western Yellow Sea. Fired two MK 18 torpedoes from bow tubes 1 and 2. Second torpedo suffered apparent gyro failure, as torpedo veered off assigned course to starboard. First torpedo ran hot, straight, and normal.

Ships Sunk:
None.

Ships Damaged:

AKITA MARU 3936 tons Position:36 31 N 121 38 E (See Gun Action No. 1 for further details)

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually observed torpedo hit via No 2. (Attack) periscope. Explosive "whack" and "thud" audible through submarine hull, sound confirmed hit as well.

Target Draft estimated at 28 feet. Target course/speed 030 8 knots.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2.5 knots, Course 300°, depth 64 feet, Range 1200 Angle 90° (at firing)

Type Attack

Daytime submerged periscope attack.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 6 , Patrol No. 12

Time:2204 Date: 4 January 1945 Lat. 33-12 N., Long. 125-01 E

Description:

Large convoy 900 yards between vessels in single column. Identified large target as large tanker possibly 8000-1000 tons, fourth in column. Convoy column visually identified: MS type escort, AK, AK, AO, AO, AO, AK, AK, ...etc). Worked inside convoy from port side astern of forward flank escort. Fired four MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3,4. all bow torpedoes expended.

After torpedo impacts, enemy escorts closed, fired star shells, radar emissions sweeping toward area. Drum slid through a gap of about 2500 yards between port flank escorts as they searched area. The dark of night hid Drum well, covering her escape.

Ships Sunk:

NIPPON MARU 10000 tons Position: 33 10 N 125 01 E .

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually observed torpedoes hit from bridge. Upon, first hit, tanker erupted into massive fireball and lost way, on fire from bow to stern as other torpedoes impacted. A explosion after torpedo #4 impacted, tanker split in two.

Estimated target draft 28 feet. Target course/speed 040 9 knots.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 4 knots, Course 352°, surfaced, Range 2500 Angle 85° (at firing)

Type Attack

Night Surface Attack

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 7 , Patrol No. 12

Time:0113 Date: 5 January 1945 Lat. 33-20 N., Long. 126-0 E

Description:

Follow up attack on large convoy, now reformed into four small columns encircled by escorts. Worked inside convoy from starboard for a shot with two remaining torpedoes in stern tubes. Forced to fire early at a SAKAI MARU class tanker tanker due to a Type C escort approaching fast from astern. Just after firing torpedoes, turned away to put approaching escort astern, escort did not spot Drum at 1900 yards, likely due to the light haze, partial clouds, and light rain persisting in the area. Upon torpedoes impacting, Drum was illuminated by spotlights from the lead escort and the escort astern, as well as star shells and came under heavy fire by deck guns, auto cannon and machine gun fire. A few stray MG/AC rounds hit Drum with many coming close. Multiple splashes from escort's deck guns (estimated 4 or 5 inch guns) were landing 200-50 yards of Drum. One errant shell landed five yards from amidships area of Drum, but caused no damage. Overall, fire was erratic and inaccurate. The dark of night again provided excellent cover for Drum as she an escape on the surface, with engines on overload producing 22.5 knots. This high speed run enabled Drum to leave her pursuers behind relatively quickly. APR-1 detected radar emissions after losing visual contact but appears Drum was not detected. Last two torpedoes expended after this attack.

Ships Sunk:

SAKAI MARU 2682 tons.

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

SAKAI MARU 2682 tons Position: 33-20 N,126-0 E

Visually observed torpedoes hit from bridge. Upon impact of first torpedo, tanker erupted in a devastating fireball. Second torpedo impacted, but was essentially redundant.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 4 knots, Course 100°, surfaced, Range 2500 Angle 64° (at firing)

Type Attack

Night Surface Attack

GUN ACTIONS

U.S.S. DRUM, Gun Action No. 1 , Patrol No. 12

Time:1507-1509 Date: 25 December 1944 Lat. 36-31 N., Long. 121-38 E

Description:

After disabling AKITA MARU with a MK 18 torpedo hit (ATTTACK No. 6), it was decided to finish off the vessel with the 4 inch 50 caliber deck gun. Range was opened to 4500 yards and Drum blew ballast for Battle Surface-Gun Action. Commenced firing at 1507, ceased firing at 1509. Vessel caught fire and sunk rapidly.

Ships Sunk: AKITA MARU 3632 tons Position: 36-31 N., Long. 121-38 E

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually observed rounds impacting target, target on fire, and sinking.

Rounds Expended:

Total 4" rounds aboard:150

4" 50 Cal: 18

Hits:14

20 MM:0

Own Ship Data: Speed 0 knots, course 281, Range 4500, Angle 25°

U.S.S. DRUM, Gun Action No. 2 , Patrol No. 12

Time:0902-0922 Date: 3 January 1945 Lat. 33-15 N., Long. 125-27 E

Description:

An hour before dawn made SJ contact with multiple small vessels. Visually identified as four motor driven fishing boats and found to be armed as all opened fire with machine guns. Several rounds impacted bow area of Drum but no damage of casualties occurred.

Ships Sunk:

Fishing boat 200 tons Position: 33 15 N 125 27 E

Fishing boat 200 tons Position: 33 15 N 127 29 E

Fishing boat 200 tons Position: 33 15 N 127 29 E

Fishing boat 200 tons Position: 33 15 N 125 32 E

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually observed deck gun and 20 mm hits on four vessels, all caught fire and sunk.

Rounds Expended:

Total 4" rounds aboard:132

4" 50 Cal: 42

Hits:28

20 MM rounds expended: 864

Own Ship Data: Speed 0 knots, course 281, Range 1200-2200, Angle 25-90°

Torpedo Data

Number of Torpedoes Aboard: 24
Number of Torpedoes Fired:24
Number of torpedo hits:21
Number of torpedoes missed(non-technical failure):2 (ATTACK No.4)
Number of defective torpedoes:1

Duds:0 Depth Keeping Malfunction:0 Gyro Error:1 (ATTACK No. 5)

(H) Mines

No mines or mining activity were encountered.

(I) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasion Tactics

No unusual ASW measures were encountered on this patrol. Air and surface patrols were encountered, with one air patrol observing Drum while submerged and attacking. Patrols seemed to be dispatched to an area within 12-24 hours of an attack. Patrols were usually two ASW vessels in a line abreast formation 4000-8000 yards apart sweeping.

The depth charging of 22 December was intense but fortunately, inaccurate, and overall ineffective. The maximum depth under Drum's keel in patrol area was 280 feet and as shallow as 50 feet with an average of around 200 feet. When possible night surface attacks were employed to avoid being attacked in shallow waters. Evasion tactics consisting of Drum's standard tactics of high speed runs when escorts overhead, with the deployment of the SBT-1 decoys. The SBT-1 proved effective, combined with the choppy seas, and disturbances created by vessels in preventing an accurate counter attack by escorts.

Gunfire from pursuing escorts after surface torpedo attack was mostly inaccurate and erratic, especially as range opened but enemy escorts are well armed and able to able quite a barrage.

(J) Major Defects and Damage

Depth Charge Attack No.1

While majority of charges were not close, one close charge shook the boat quite severely. The charge caused minor hull damage (1 percent) and caused a leak in the main fuel oil tank. While the tank appear repaired, it appears a slow leak developed which led to loss of fuel over time as leak could not be fully repaired at sea. The nature of the leak beyond initial repairs was not known until the end of the patrol. However, Drum has plenty of fuel to transit to Guam.

(K) Radio

Radio function on this patrol was excellent with five contact reports sent and replies pomprlty received.

(L) Radar

SJ Radar performance was excellent, typically detecting contacts at 14 NM.

SD Radar performance was adequate, typically detecting aircraft at 10 NM.

(M) Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

Sound conditions varied from excellent to poor. Typical detection range on passive sonar was 8000-11000 yards. Active sonar was not employed aside from the fathometer, which worked well.

(O) Thermal Layers

Thermal layers were detected at 100, 144, 170, 194, 210, and 240 feet.

(P) Personnel

The state of training of both officers and men remains high, despite the large turnover in personnel during the past year. This is attributable to the generally good replacement material found in the relief crews and the manner in which these men take to the indoctrination by the old hands.

As has been done in the preceding three patrols, school of the boat classes were conducted for the unqualified men by the unqualified officers. This method continued to be beneficial to both instructors and students.

With the boat now being assigned to Guam, the journey to the refitting base was a matter of only four days causing the education program to be somewhat "caught-short", it is expected that a fair number of those eligible will qualify or secure their advancement in rating.

Number on board 72
Officers 7
Chief Petty Officers:8
Number qualified at start 50
Number qualified at end 57
Number advanced in rating 7
Number first patrol men 12

(Q) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Majuro to Area 3942 Miles 42400 Gallons
In Area 3711 Mile 26007 Gallons
Area to Guam 1875 Miles 24100 Gallons
Total 9078 Miles 92507 Gallons

(R) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 10
Days in Area 18
Days Enroute to Base 5
Days Submerged 4
Total Days on patrol 33

(S) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Torpedoes 0
Fuel 37300 gallons
Provisions 30 days
Personnel 30 days

Limiting Factor of This Patrol:

All torpedoes expended.

(T) Radar and Radio Countermeasures

Interception of Enemy Radar Transmissions:

A.

1. Ship or station - U.S.S. DRUM (SS-228)

2. Area covered on this mission - Yellow Sea, Nansei Shoto Islands, 19 Dec. to 7 Jan. 1945

3. Enemy radar was ship based.

4. Intercept equipment - APR - SPA

5.
(a) Frequency 155-157 Mc. Dial readings 155-157 (APR)
(b) PRF 480 How measured - SPA
(c) Pulse width - 9 Micro seconds How measured - SPA

e) Lobe switching was not used.
(f) Polarization of enemy signal - none.
(g) Sweep rate - irregular - probably hand train

6. Radar was probably used for surface search.

7. Action of enemy radar, including distances and bearings at which he searched, tracked, faded, etc. - With full gain on APR and SPA, obtained about 2/3 saturation signal at 18 miles.

6. Enemy ship based, surface searched radar was ineffective in detecting Drum during this patrol.

(U) Remarks

With seven ships sunk by torpedo and four smaller vessels sunk by gunfire for 41,508 tons sunk, this was an excellent patrol for DRUM and her crew.

With enemy shipping now avoiding open ocean sea lanes from territories in the South Pacific and Asia, one area where they have no choice but to brave the open sea during the voyage is the East China Sea between Shanghai and Japan. Traffic appears to route up the China coast off Shanghai then turn NE towards Quelpart Island and run North of Quelpart Island, with home island traffic running North of Quelpart as well. This route comes from the Sasebo and area via Tsushima Straits A number of wolf packs could provide maximum damage to the enemy and deny their use of this vital sea lane.

Torpedo performance: Aside from the single erratic MK 18, was excellent on this patrol and as the results indicate, effective against enemy vessels.

Material Condition: While Drum remains in relatively excellent material condition after twelve war patrols, she is in need of an overhaul and modernization as other boats of her class have received, particularly in the deck gun and AA gun realms. An increasing number of surface gun actions compared to past patrols necessitates Drum receive a five inch 50 cal wet mount deck gun, as well as 40 MM bofors for maximum effectiveness.

Bubblehead1980

09-20-21, 06:49 PM

Thank you, this is nothing compared to the detailed report here ... we will say that it illustrates your subjects ... and makes you want to get involved maybe ..! No ..? :har::har:
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2021/37/5/1631876962-sh4img-2021-08-11-01-47-43-407.png
:Kaleun_Cheers::Kaleun_Cheers: :Kaleun_Wink: Salutation KM_U669

Thanks. Well, it's why I write them in the style of actual patrol reports, without photos can picture the attacks etc via words. Much as actual skippers learned from one another by reading patrol reports, same can be done here, especially for the new players. Even for some self evaluation and hindsight after patrol, can read the report and see what did right and what did, if anything, wrong.

I'd like to create a template along the lines of the actual reports for distribute to the SH 4 community so the detailed reports can be easily completed. Most time consuming part is keeping the data logged during the patrol for the report but interesting to look back.

Bubblehead1980

09-23-21, 08:42 AM

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
100 difficulty. No cams or contacts.

https://i.postimg.cc/wvndGxWC/combatinsignia.png (https://postimages.org/)

War Patrol Report
USS Drum SS-228
War Patrol Thirteen
11 February- 30 March 1945

(A) Prologue

Arrived Apra Harbor, Guam from twelfth war patrol on 10 January 1945. Normal refit was accomplished by U.S.S. SPERRY and Submarine Division 82. Drydocked for routine bottom and sea valve work.

Lieut. (JG) G.P.A. Romano promoted to Lieutenant effective 31 January, 1945.Petty Officer 1st Class Eliot W. Ferrall promoted to Chief Petty Officer effective 15 January, 1945.Following detachment of the Chief of the Boat on 1 February, CPO Bernard J. Sanders was named the new COB.

Readiness for sea on 11 February 1945.

(B) Narrative

Roster of Officers and CPO

File Number Name Number of War Patrols
78641 Lt. Comdr. F.M. Eddy, USN (CO) 8
165835 Lieut. A.N. Callaghan, USN (XO) 7
919543 Lieut. A.L. O Leary, USN 10
161064 Lieut. G.P.A. Romano, USN 6
109492 Ens. L.Y. Hammond, USNR 4
228826 Ens. N.T. Connaway, USNR 4
89185 Ens. W.M. James, USNR 3

Service Number Name Number of War Patrols
261 78 40 Sanders, B.J., CTM, USN 9
238 59 06 Sawyer, L.F., CMoMM, USN 9
223 47 64 Ferrall,E.W., CEM, USN 10
321 19 14 Braun, W.S., CTM, USN 11
287 34 91 Baker, B.B., CMoMM, USN 7
328 60 88 Sevens, W.E., CMoMM, USN 6

11 February-

1000-Departed Apra Harbor, Guam for assigned patrol area Northern-Central Honshu.

1230-Trim Dive.

1300-Surfaced.

12 February-

En route to Area

13 February-

En route to Area.

14 February-

0700-Trim Dive.

0715-Sound contact. Submerged submarine bearing 092.

0716-Rig for Silent Running. 100 feet.

0731-Lost contact.

1100-Surfaced. Departed the area at high speed. Believe submerged sub was making an approach.

15 February-

En route to area.

0600-A moderate fog set in with overcast clouds and choppy seas.

16 February-

0000-Entered Patrol Area.

0030-10 NM off Honshu Coast.37 20 N 141 8 E

1408- SD contact. Submerged.

1600-Surfaced.

1714-SJ contact. Bearing 006 13 NM. 36 12 N 140 45 E

1730-Attemping to overtake SJ contact.

1745- APR-1 detecting radar emissions from contact.

1834-SD contact.

1836-Visual contact (in dense fog) on warship unknown type possibly DD or CL bearing 015 5000 yards. General Quarters.

1909-Vessel identified as W-19 class Minesweeper/Escort. Likely on patrol. Moving at high speed, unable to overtake.

1920-Secure General Quaters. Course 180 to patrol coastline.

17 February-

1410- SD contact

1411-SD contac.Submerged.

18 February-

0130-Sighted fishing boats. 37 18 N 141 12 E

0136-General Quarters. Battle Surface. Gun Action

0154- Opened Fire.GUN ACTION NO. 1 (See Gunnery Section)

0159-Ceased Fire.

0210-Secure General Quarters.

1213- SJ contact 169 degrees 11 NM. 38 47 N 141 47 E

1219-Submerged for attack.

1221-General Quarters-Torpedo

1241-ATTACK NO. 1 (See Attack Section)

1248- Sunk Type C escort 900 tons. 8-45 N 141-46 E

1250-Secure General Quarters. Drum at 200 feet, 6 knots, departing scene.

2100-Surfaced.

19 February-

0331-SJ contacts. Bearing 050 15 NM 38 38 N 141 42 E. PPI indicates convoy hugging the coast northbound.

0351- General Quarters-Torpedo Surface

0413- Convoy spotted. One AK, 7 MS and PC type escorts. 38-38 N 141-36 E Course/Speed 012 degrees 6 knots.

APR-1 detecting radar signals from convoy bearing.

0428 - ATTACK NO.2-

0433- Sunk BIYO MARU 5425 tons.38-38N 141-35 E . Under heavy gunfire from escort close aboard, submerged.

0434-Pinging from escort on short scale. Rigged for depth charge and silent running. SBT-1 decoys deployed. Escort overhead. Splashes from depth charges. Drum depth 200 feet.

0435-Multiple depth charges explosions. Minor damage. See damage section.

0438-Escort made second run. More explosions. Minor damage. See damage section.

0440-Escort overhead. More DC explosions.

0445-DC explosions. Close. Boat shaken.

0454-DC explosions astern.

0502-Escort overhead. DC explosions, close.

0507-Pinging from escort.

0508-DC explosions.

0630-Hour since last contact with escorts.

0710-Radar depth .Nearest contact is 6 NM. Secure Silent Running.

0711-Surfaced.

0712-Secure General Quarters

0800-Inspection complete. See damage section.

0859-SD contact .Submerged.

1219-Surfaced. Set course to patrol open sea while conducting repairs.

20 February-

0800-Submerged for day.

2000-Surfaced.

21 February-

0000-Set course to close coast

1106-SD contact . Submerged.

1109-Drum at 340 feet. Sounds of low flying aircraft audible through hull.

1111-Series of explosions above, not close. Drum at 350 feet.

1932-Radar Depth. All clear on SJ and SD.

2011-Surfaced.

21 February-

0700-Submerged 6 NM off Honshu Coast. 36-33 N 140-33 E

1339-Drum at 295 feet. Noise of low flying aircraft audible through hull.

1341-Multiple explosions astern.

1443-More explosions.

1840-Scraped bottom. Fathometer reading indicated more depth below.

2002-Surfaced.

23 February-

0300-Overcast, heavy fog, rain set int. Seas calm. Turned to course 090 to clear coast until storm passes.

0330-Seas heavy with 12-15 ft waves.

24 February-

Storms continued.

2341-SJ contact bearing 333 14 NM. Estimated position (DR) 150 SSE of Sendai, Honshu.

25 February-

0012- 10 NM ahead of contact, shadowing until weather clears for attack.

1550- Lost SJ contact.

1558-Regained SJ contact. Bearing 018 14 NM

26 February-

0159-Lost SJ contact.

0206- Regained SJ contact. Bearing 337 14 NM.

0610-Storms clear.

0624-Visual contact on AK or AP bearing 357 range 7 NM.

0625-Submerged for attack.

0626- Depth: 80 feet. General Quarters.

0630- Sound made contact with merchant vessel bearing 348 degrees estimated range 6 NM.

0647-Visual on AP type vessel

0706-Observation with Attack Periscope before firing revealed clearly marked hospital ship HIKAWA MARU class AP on course 225 degrees 7 knots. Closed outer doors on Tubes 1-6 and ordered back 2/3 to open range.

0710-Secured General Quarters.

0755-Surfaced. Turned course 0000 for return to patrol area. Estimated position 34 50 N 141 29 E.

27 February-

Closing coast for patrol.

28 February-

0528- SJ contact 14 NM. Closing fast. 38-40 N 141 40 E Patrol, avoided.

1422- SD contact.

1423-Submerged.

1619-Sound contact. Warship, closing 003 estimated range 6 NM. Drum at 378 feet. Rigged for Silent Running. Turned to course 090 to open range

1855-Secure Silent Running.

1937-Surfaced.

1 March-

1301-Submerged to avoid patrol.

1500-Surfaced.

2300-Enetered Sendai Bay

2 March-

0100-In Sendai Bay, SJ contact on two PC type vessels. Drum evaded at high speed as patrol closed.

0200-Set southerly course along coast.

0338-Fishing Boat spotted bearing 056 7000 yards.

0345- General Quarters. Battle Surface-Gun Action.

0359 - GUN ACTION NO. 2-

Commenced firing 4 inch and 20 MM in broadside action . 37-24 141-16

0401-Ceased Fire.

1149-SJ contact 11 NM. 37-26 N 141-13 E.

1158-Submerged for attack.

1200-General Quarters-Torpedo.

1229- ATTACK NO.3-

1234- Type D Escort Vessel 900 tons sunk. 37-26 N 141-09 E

1235-Three fishing boats sighted via periscope. 310 degrees 1900 yards

1236- Standby or Battle Surface-Gun Action.

1300-GUN ACTION NO. 3- Commenced firing 4 inch and 20 MM in broadside action.

1314-Ceased fire. Sunk three fishing boats 200 tons each. 37-26 N 141-11 E

1315-Secured General Quarters. Course 090 for high speed run away from coast.

3 March-

0700-1900-Submerged patrol along coast.

1901-Surfaced.

4 March-

1229-SD contact. Submerged.

1900-Surfaced.

5 March-

Patrolling 150 NM offshore.

6 March-

Offshore patrol

7 March-

Offshore patrol

8 March-

1012-SD contact. Submerged

1926-Surfaced.

9 March-

Patrol

1759-Aircraft spotted bearing 180 closing fast. Submerged.

1800- Drum passing 200 ft, low flying aircraft audible through hull.

1801- Multiple explosions above.

2100-Surfaced.

10 March-

0100-Sent status report to COMBUSBPAC

0300-Received orders from COMSUBPAC to rotate to Area 4 for lifeguard duty and patrol.

11 March-

En route Area 4

0920- SD contact.

0924-Contact 10 NM closing fast. Submerged.

1200-Sufaced.

1201-SD contact. 5 NM closing ! Submerged.

1202-Explosions above and near as Drum passed 200 feet. No damage.

2002-Surfaced.

12 August-

0200-Entered Area 4

0620-Submerged for patrol off Boso Peninsula, approaching Tokyo Wan for lifeguard station. 34 49 N 139 52 E.

1139:04-SD contact has multiple contacts 11 NM. B-29 raid from Marianas inbound Tokyo. Lifeguard Assignment underway.

1139:34- SJ contacts 023, 026. PPI indicates convoy departing Tokyo Bay.

1157-Smoke spotted of convoy. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1237-ATTACK NO. 4

1238-Torpedoes impacted targets.

Sunk ZINBU MARU 5700 tons. 35-0 N 139-43 E

Damaged KIGAN MARU 7326 tons.

1240-Pinging from escorts, at PT boat type escort 1200 yard saway closing fast. Drum to 200 feet, heading for deeper waters. SBT-1 decoy deployed. Rigged for Silent Running and Depth Charge.

1243-PT type escort heard overhead. Several splashes audible.

1244- Drum at 380 feet. Multiple DC explosions rocked the boat. Damage reported. See damage section.

1247-Pinging. Many DC explosions in distance, appears escorts attacking decoys.

1306-Pinging.

1608-300 ft.Secure General Quarters.

1630-Surfaced. Began pursuit of damage KIGAN MARU.

1723-SD contact. Submerged.

1725-Drum at 362 feet. Explosions above, not close.

1812-Surfaced.

2235- SJ contact reestablished with convoy. 14 NM bearing 357. 35-2 N 140-27 E. Convoy hugging South-East coast of Boso Peninsula. A lone contact, likely a patrol is on the SJ scope as well, inbound from NE.

2240-General Quarters-Surface Torpedo.

2312-Convoy sighted. 35-07 N 140-24 E Course 068 Speed 10 knots. One AK, four escorts.

2316-Believe APR-1 is not functioning.

2329-ATTACK NO.5

2331:11-Torpedoes impacted target.

2331:28-Drum illuminated by PC's searchlight, under deck gun and AC/MG fire. Engines on overload, left pursuers behind.

2335-KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk. 35-8 N 140-24 E. Drum course 090 20 knots to clear coast.

13 March-

0100-Secure General Quarters.

0825- SD contact. Submerged.

2100-Surfaced.

14 March-

0838-SD contact. Submerged

2100-Surfaced.

15 March-

0200-Entered Sagami-Wan

0629-Submerged for patrol.

1024-Smoke spotted Bearing 024 degrees estimated range 6NM

1027-Sound contact: Fast screws, possible warship bearing 028 degrees.

1034-PC type vessel spotted 032 degrees. Rigged for Silent Running.

1119-Lost sound contact.

1120-No visual contact. Heavy fog and rain set in.

1130-Surfaced.

16 March-

0533-SJ contacts bearing 000 degrees. 15 NM. 36-17 N 140-41 E. PPI indicates northbond convoy hugging coast. Increased to 20 knots to end around.

0708-Smoke sighted 265 degrees by light of sunrise.

0944-General Quarters-Torpedo.

0946-Submerged for attack.

1020-Convoy sighted. Course 012 10 knots. 37-4 N 141-4 E. Composition: AK, AO, AK + 5 PC/SC type escorts. Kead escort is Mikura Class (Type B) Escort.

1044 - ATTACK NO.6

Fired four MK 18 torpedoes at AO GENYO MARU 11800 tons at position 37-5 N 141-3 E.

1050-Torpedoes missed. Sound reports torpedoes ran in front of target. Convoy made slight course adjustment and slowed by one knot aft launch, causing the miss.

1056-Pinging from escort 1200 yards bearing 135 . Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running.SBT-1 decoy deployed.

1101-Depth charge explosions, appears escort attacked decoy. Passed thermal layer 170 feet.

1106-DC explosions astern. Escorts attacking decoys.

1220-One escort on sound, still searching 5000 yards aster. Convoy appears to have moved on. Two warship contacts arrived from the south at high speed, likely a patrol called in. Drum at 220 ft Course 070 at 3 knots.

1245-Secure General Quarters.

1317-Periscope Depth. Two PC/SC astern patrolling at estimated 6 NM.

1318-Radar Depth.

1321-Surfaced for end around for follow up attack.

1700-End around complete but unable to close enemy before reaches the Sendai Bay coastal minefield, preventing a night surface attack. Waters are too shallow for a submerged attack as well (50-60 feet max depth along their track). Broke off contact with run to the east at 18 knots.

1718-Spotted fishing boat 023 degrees 5 NM.

1720-General Quarters. Battle Surface-Gun Action

1732 -GUN ACTION NO. 4-

Commenced firing 4 inch and 20 MM in broadside action.

1734-Ceased fire.

1736-Armed Fishing boat sunk 37-36 N 141-23 E.

1738-Secure General Quarters. Continue high speed run eastward until dark.

1804-SD contact 7 NM closing fast! Submerged.

1807-Explosions above. Drum at 375 feet.

2004-Periscope Depth. All clear.

2005-Radar Depth. All clear.

2015-Surfaced

17 March-

0130-Set course for Pearl Harbor via Midway Island per operations order. Terminating patrol due to fuel state and distance to Midway.

18 March-

1146-SD contact 16 NM steady.36-37 N 149 10 E.

1148-SD contact at 9 NM steady. Lookouts spotted contact bearing 185 degrees 7.5 NM heading 075 estimated altitude 2500 ft. Aircraft is four engine flying boat, "MAVIS".

1151-Aircraft made sudden turn towards Drum diving closing range at high speed. Submerged to avoid.

1154-Drum at 216 feet. Low flying aircraft audible through hull.

1155-Multiple large explosions above. Drum at 300 feet.

1923-Surfaced.

19-25 March-

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

26 March-

0500-Docked Midway for refuel.

1100-Depart Midway for Pearl Harbor.

30 March-

1104-Docked Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor. Terminated Patrol.

(C) Weather

Weather en route to patrol area was favorable but declined as Drum reached within 100 nautical miles of the Honshu coast. Upon entering area, a fog, and squalls set in. Squalls made sporadic appearances during the patrol. The weather proved a particular hindrance during the pursuit of an SJ contact over a forty-eight hour period 24-26 February. Drum pursued this contact but was unable to establish visual identification due to storms. Upon clearing of storms, vessel was identified as a Japanese flagged hospital ship, HIKAWA MARU. Weather en route to Midway and Hawaii was overall favorable.

(D) Tidal Information

The currents encountered along coast of Honshu corresponded to those predicted by the pilot charts, current charts, and coast pilots. The effort of the Kuroshio was felt and it was noted that as the force of the northerly wind increased, the set due to the Kuroshio decreased.

(E) Navigational Aids

Navigational aids were few and far between. However, Sunosaki Lighthouse and the light on Cape Nojima, Bosho Peninsula were helpful.

(F) Aircraft Contacts

No. Date Time Position Course Altitude Range Bearing Visual Type Remarks

1. 16 Feb 45 1408 36 3 N 140 54 E N/A N/A 7 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid. Attacked.

2. 21 Feb 45 1106 6-56 N 141-44 E N/A N/A 7 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid.

3. 21 Feb 45 1338 36-33 N 140-33 E 140° 500ft 8000 yds 200° Yes KATE Submerged to avoid. Attacked.

4. 27 Feb 45 1422 38-40 N 141-40 E N/A N/A 8 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid

5. 4 Mar 45 1229 37-1 N 141-7 E N/A N/A 8 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid.

6. 8 Mar 45 1012 38-16 N 143-23 E N/A N/A 7 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid

7. 11 Mar 45 0920 35-12 N 142-22 E N/A N/A 14 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid.

8. 11 Mar 45 1201 35-11 N 142-23 E N/A N/A 5 NM

9. 11 Mar 45 1139 34 49 N 139 52 E 350° 25000 13 NM 190° Yes B-29 Inbound USAAF raid on Tokyo Area. Lifeguard Assignment.

10. 12 Mar 45 1723 34-50 N 139-43 E N/A N/A 6 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid.Attacked.

11. 13 Mar 45 0825 33-48 N 142-4 E N/A N/A 15 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid.

12. 14 Mar 45 0838 33-58 N 140-12 E N/A N/A 14 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid.

13. 16 Mar 45 1804 37-35N 141-32 E N/A N/A 7 NM N/A No N/A Submerged to avoid.Attacked.

14. 18 Mar 45 1146 36-37 N 149 10 E 075° 1000ft 9 NM 185° Yes MAVIS Submerged to avoid. Attacked.

(G) Attack Data

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 13

Time: 1241 (I) Date: 18 February 1945 Lat. 38-45 N., Long. 141-46 E.

Description:

Type C Escort Vessel on coastal ASW patrol.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage

Escort Type C 900

Ships Damaged:

None

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visual via periscope.

Target Course/Speed/Range:

030° 16 knots 1680 yds (at firing) 11 ft

Own Ship Data:

Course Speed Depth Angle

080° 2 kts 60 feet 70° Port (at firing)

Torpedo: MK 18 x 1 Tube #7 Gyro:90° Course:355° Track:70° S Depth: 6 ft Firing Interval:0 POA: MOT

Type Attack

Day-Periscope attack. Type C Escort vessel on coastal ASW patrol, first detected on SJ Radar thne visually spotted. Due to ideal setup, opted to attack. Torpedo hit amidships with large explosion. Vessel sunk quickly, initially on even keel but taking a down angle by stern just before going under.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 13

Time: 0428 (I) Date: 19 February 1945 Lat. 8-38 N ., Long. 141-35 E .

Description:

Small convoy hugging coast with one AK and six MS/PC/SC type escorts.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage
BIYO MARU AK 5425

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually from bridge.Sound confirmed sinking after submerging to evade gunfire.

Target Course/Speed/Range/Draft:

012° 8 knots Range: 3000 yds (at firing) 24 ft

Own Ship Data:

Course Speed Depth Angle

251° 2 kts Surfaced AOB:55 Starboard

Torpedo: MK 18 x 3 Bow Tubes: 3,4,5. Gyro:0° Course:262° Track:70° S Depth: 10 ft Firing Interval:5 seconds POA:MOT

Type Attack

Night surface attack on small convoy hugging the coast. one AK lead a minelayer type vessel with five PC/MS type escorts. After torpedo impact, Drum was illuminated by spotlight and fired to dive to avoid barrage of heavy gunfire. Several hours of depth charges followed with minor damage.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3, Patrol No. 13

Time:1229 (I) Date: 2 March 1945 Lat.37-28 N., Long. 141-13 E.

Description:

Type D Escort Vessel on ASW patrol presented favoriable opporunity for attack.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage

Escort Type D 900

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:
Visually via periscope.

Target Course/Speed/Range/Draft:

180° 16 kts 2264 yds (at firing) 11 ft

Own Ship Data:

Course Speed Depth Angle

085° 2 kts 64 92° Port

Torpedo: MK 18 x 1 Stern Tube #9 Gyro:328° Course:052° Track: 53° P Depth: 10 ft Firing Interval:5 seconds POA:MOT

Type Attack

Day periscope attack on lone escort on coastal ASW patrol. Wehn SJ contact was made, vessel was fairly close and with his sweep in the relatively shallow water, may overtaken and detected Drum. Vessels project track presented favorable setup for submerged attack with MK 18 electric torpedo.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 4, Patrol No. 13

Time:1237 (I) Date: 12 March 1945 Lat. 35-0 N ., Long. 139-43 E .

Description:

Convoy of two AK with five escorts departing Tokyo Wan, hugging coast of Boso Peninsula for a run up cost of Honshu, likely to Sendai area or Tsugaru Straits. Patrol vessels were nearby as was a marauding single engine floatplane on patrol of the area. A B-28 air raid happened to overfly simulatenously as Drum made her approach, providing a distraction to the escorts, including the starboard guard to fall out of formation somewhat, providing an excellent shot for Drum.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Torpedo Hits Point of Impact

ZINBU MARU AK 5186 2 MOT

Ships Damaged:

Name Class Tonnage Torpedo Hits Point of Impact

KIGAN MARU AK 7390 2 Forward, Bow

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visual, through periscope. Audible through hull and sound gear.

Target Course/Speed/Range/Draft:

215° 10 kts KIGAN MARU 1985 yds (at firing) 27 ft

215° 10 kts ZINBU MARU 1500 yds (at firing) 15 ft

Own Ship Data:

Course Speed Depth Angle

100° 2 kts 64 90° KIGAN MARU 69° ZINBU MARU

Torpedo: MK 14 x 6 Bow Tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6

Torpedoes 1,2 (ZINBU MARU)

Gyro Course Track Depth Firing Interval POA

19 052° 53° P 6 ft 5 seconds MOT

Torpedoes 3,4,5,6 (KIGAN MARU)

Gyro Course Track Depth Firing Interval POA

343 147° 94° P 10 ft 5 seconds MOT

Type Attack

Day periscope attack made in moderate seas. Four out of six torpedoes impacted as aimed. Two amidships on ZINBU MARU and two forward near the bow of KIGAN MARU. One missed ahead of KIGAN MARU as she slowed after absorbing two previous hits and torpedo #6 suffered an apparent gyro malfunction as it went off track and passed astern of KIGAN MARU, in the gap between the two vessels in the convoy. ZINBU MARU was burning fiercely and settling fast into water and eventually sunk in view of Drum. KIGAN MARU, with fires burning in the bow area continued on at slow speed while Drum was forced to submerge to the depths to avoid depth charges from escorting vessels.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 5, Patrol No. 13

Time:2329 (I) Date: 12 March 1945 Lat.35-08 N., Long. 140-24 E.

Description:

Follow up attack on KIGAN MARU (AK) damaged earlier in the day in ATTACK NO.4 . While Drum was evading counter attack, the AK and most of her escorts rounded the Boso Peninsula and were heading NNW along the coast, roughly 3000-4500 yards off shore.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Torpedo Hits Point of Impact

KIGAN MARU AK 7390 4 MOT, MOT, Forward, Aft

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visually via bridge.

Target Course/Speed/Range/Draft:

068° 10 kts 3682 yds (at firing) 27 ft

Own Ship Data:

Course Speed Depth Angle

236° 2 kts Surfaced 52° Starboard

Torpedo: MK 14 x 4 Bow Tubes 1,2,3,4 Gyro:345° Course:313° Track: 30° P Depth: 10 ft Firing Interval:5 seconds POA:MOT

Type Attack

Night surface attack in moderate seas. All four torpedoes impacted the already damaged freight, obliterating the vessel. The vessel was left a flaming heap and quickly sunk. During torpedo run, a small PC moved up into position, putting Drum just 1300 yards away when torpedoes impacted target Drum was into a hard turn to starboard at high speed when illuminated by a searchlight. Drum came under heavy fire but suffered no hits or damages. Engines on overload helped to outpace the escorting PC's.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 6, Patrol No. 13

Time:1044 (I) Date: 16 March 1945 Lat.37-05 N., Long. 141-03 E.

Description:

Convoy of one large AO, one medium sized AK and one small AK with six escorts moving north along the coast towards Sendai Bay.

Ships Sunk:

None

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

None

Target Course/Speed/Range/Draft:

012° 10 kts 3212 yards (at firing) 26 ft

Own Ship Data:

Course Speed Depth Angle

112° 2 kts 64 74° Starboard

Torpedo: MK 18 x 4 Stern Tubes 7,8,9,10 Gyro:358° Course:103° Track: 40° P Depth: 8 ft Firing Interval:5 seconds POA:MOT

Type Attack

Day periscope attack in calm seas and shallow waters (max depth 130 feet below keel). Fired at longer range than preferred due to enemy escort screen position which would overrun and likely detect Drum if closed range any further. All torpedoes ran hot, straight, and normal. Upon raising scope ten seconds prior to expected impact, noticed the convoy had adjust course slightly to starboard, to heading 016°. Sound reported torpedoes ran ahead of target. Believe the course change came with a small and temporary speed reduction from 10 knots to 9 knots, the one knot differential being enough to cause a miss as the tanker did not speed up in time. This is unfortunate and hurts as target was a large 11800 ton tanker of the GENYO MARU class.

Drum was initially undetected due to torpedoes lack of wakes, but pinging soon began from closest escort as Drum made a high speed run for deeper water. A few depth charges fell, but none close, thanks to the SBT-1 decoys deployed, which absorbed many depth charges.

(H) Gunnery

Ammunition:

Gun Actions

NO. Date Time Location Description Result

1. 18 Feb 45 0154 7-18 N 141-12 E Two Armed Fishing Boats Sunk 200 tons x 2

2. 2 Mar 45 0359 37-24 N 141-16 E Armed Fishing Boat Sunk Fishing Boat 200 tons

3. 2 Mar 45 1300 37-26 N 141-11 E Three Armed Fishing Boats Sunk 200 tons x 3

4. 16 Mar 45 1732 37-38 N 141-22 E Armed Fishing Boat Sunk 200 tons

Gunnery Data by Gun Action

4' 50 Caliber 20 MM

NO. Fired Hits Fired Hits

1. 8 7 400 Multiple

2. 6 5 500 Multiple

3. 44 29 900 Multiple

4. 7 5 200 Multiple

Rounds at Start of patrol:

4" 50 Cal: 150

20 MM:2000

Rounds at End of Patrol:

4" 50 Cal: 85

20 MM: 0

Remarks:

Gun and gun crew performance was satisfactory on this patrol. Every fishing boat encountered was armed with machine guns but the fire was erratic and did Drum no harm. More 20 MM ammunition should be allotted given the number of gunnery actions on patrols have increased exponentially.

(I) No mines were observed visually. However, the reported minefields off shore in Drum's assigned patrol area between depth of 60 and 150 feet were a matter of concern. The newly established coastal defense minefield, which begins along the coast at Matsukawa-Ura Bay and stretches along the coast into Sendai Bay spoiled any chance of another attack on the GENYO MARU tanker.

(J) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasion Tactics

Both assigned areas were heavily patrolled via sea and air along the coast and 10-15 NM offshore. Air patrols further offshore were fairly consistent.

Convoys use the shallows along the coast as an obstacle for an attacking submarine by typically sailing no more than 5000 yards off shore. This obviously dictates time place and manner of attack for submarines. The are pockets of deep water which extended almost to the beach along the coastal areas permitting short, high speed runs submerged to deeper waters after an attack.

Escort screens typically consist one or or two front line escorts (Kaibokan, DE, DD, MS etc) and multiple auxiliary SC and PC type vessels.

Enemy depth charge attacks were intense but brief ont his patrol, electing to rejoin their charges in most cases instead of leaving them vulnerable while in a prolonged hunt.

Submerged evasion tactics consisted of high speed runs at maximum depth to deeper waters, while deploying multiple SBT-1 decoys at different depth. Alternating change of course and depth was utilized as well. The SBT-1 decoys were particularly effective on this patrol and permitted Drum to escape serious damage.

Surfaced evasion tactics consist of high speed runs, beginning with a power turn about one minute before torpedo impact. Engines are pushed to overload as needed, enabling Drum to make 22.5 knots on surfaced for up to 6 hours if needed

(K) Major Defects and Damage

Depth Charge Attack #1

At 0434 on 19 February 1945, Drum was forced to submerge after a successful night surface attack(ATTACK NO.2) . A nearby enemy escort spotted Drum as she turned away from the scene and ran down her track, pinging. Drum's high speed run submerged placed her in deeper waters. At a depth of 200 feet at 0435, multiple depth charges exploded, shaking the boat badly and causing the following damage:

1.) Multiple pipe and air line leaks in conning tower and control room. (Repaired)

2.) Forward batteries damaged (Repaired)

3.) Rudder Transmission (Repaired)

4.) Stern Dive planes (Repaired)

5.) Aft Torpedo Room-Minor Flooding (Repaired, pumped out)

6.) Aft torpedo tube #7 damaged (Repaired)

7.) No. 1 periscope head (Repaired)

8.) No. 2 Periscope Head (Repaired)

9.) *APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver (Inoperable, not able to to repair at sea)

* It is not known if this equipment was rendered inoperable in Depth Charge Attack #1 (first or second pattern) or #2 but for reporting purposes listed in #1.

Note: Damage to periscope heads was not apparent until later when post attack inspection was completed.

A second depth charge attack by the same escort at 0438 caused the following damage:

1.) No. 1 Diesel Engine (Repaired)

2.) No. 2 Diesel Engine (Repaired)

3.) Port Propeller Shaft (Repaired)

4.)Compressor (Repaired)

5.) Trim pump (Repaired)

6.) Piping and air line leaks. (Repaired)

Depth Charge Attack #2

At 1244 on 12 March 1945, following successful submerged attack on a convoy off coast of the Boso Peninsula (ATTACK NO. 4), Drum came under depth charge attack. At 1244, while at a depth of 300 feet, multiple explosions rocked Drum causing the following damage:

1.)Multiple piping and air line leaks (Repaired)

2.) SD Radar Antenna (Repaired)

3.) SJ Antenna (Repaired)

4.) Hydraulic Pump (Repaired)

5.) Trim Pump (Repaired)

6.) Forward Dive Planes (Repaired)

7.) Minor flooding in Conning tower (Repaired, Pumped)

8.) Minor flooding in Control Room. (Repaired, Pumped)

9.) Minor flooding in forward torpedo room (Repaired, Pumped)

10.) Aft Batteries (Repaired)

11.) Radio Receiver (Repaired)

12.) Torpedo Tube # 8 (Repaired)

13.) Torpedo Tube # 9 (Repaired)

All damage, except for the APR-1 was repaired within twenty-four hours of occurring.

Incident:

At 1820 hours on 21 February at position 36-33 N 140-33 E Drum scraped the bottom of the sea at a depth of 300 feet while evading a pursuing aircraft, which had spotted Drum and dropped depth charges. The fathometer failed to give proper depth on this occasion, but strangely was accurate on all other readings. The following damage was caused by the bottoming of the boat.

1.) Port Sonar Head Damaged (Repaired)

2.) Starboard Sonar Head Damaged(Repaired)

3.) Forward Batteries Damaged (Repaired)

4.) Leaks in piping throughout boat namely conning tower and control room) (Repaired)

Inspection of the hull revealed no damage from the collision.

(L) Radio

Radio function for first part of the patrol was excellent. While functional after being damaged on 12 March, radio function was apparently not one hundred percent.

(M) Radar

SJ Radar performance was once again excellent. Targets were typically detected at 13-14 nautical miles. No failures or breakdowns occurred.

SD Radar performance was mediocre for most of the patrol. However, it is believed this is due to the proximity to land reducing the effectiveness as when Drum was in open ocean areas, SD contacts were typically made at 12-13 nautical mile, instead of the 6-8 while off Honshu.

(N) Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

Both supersonic sound sets operated satisfactorily throughout the patrol. In spite of the instance in which the JP contacted the convoy prior to the sighting of smoke (screws were reported once - contact was not regained until close range), it is not felt that proper results are being obtained from these gear and it will be thoroughly checked during the coming refit.

Because of the relative scarcity of contacts, it is difficult to estimate the sound conditions present in the waters assigned during this patrol. However, sound conditions were fair to good when contacts were made.

The pinging of the escorts encountered was heard at an estimated maximum range of 2,000 yards while screws were heard to a range of about 12000 yards.

(O) Thermal Layers

Due to the majority of operations being conducted in littorals, thermoclines were rare on this patrol. However, those encountered close were at 170, 250 feet, while those in open ocean were found at 190, 260, and 360 feet.

(P) Health, Food, and Habitability

The health of the crew during this war patrol was exceedingly good. Only 3 man days were lost, due to one case of gastro-enteritis, acute.

The food was palatable and well prepared. One new cook and one new baker did very good work on their first patrol and as a result the meals were much improved over the preceding few patrols.

The boat was very comfortable throughout the patrol. With the injection temperature lower than the Drum has been accustomed to, and the control room supply blower and air-conditioning unit, the entire ship was cool most of the time.

(Q) Personnel

Number of men detached after previous patrol 11
Number of men on board 72
Number of men qualified at start 48
Number of men qualified at end 59
Number of men unqualified making their first patrol 2

(R) Miles Steamed-Fuel Used

Guam to Area 1800.7 Miles 23030 Gallons
In Area 6285.8 Miles 56501 Gallons
Area to Midway 2727.9 Miles 33692 Gallons
Midway to Pearl 1381.6 Miles 22803 Gallons
Total 12196.0 Miles 136026 Gallons

(S) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 5
Days in Area 30
Days Enroute to Midway 9
Days Enroute from Midway to Pearl 4
Days Submerged 13
Total Days on Patrol 48

(T) Factors of Endurance Remaining (Area)

Torpedoes 5
Fuel 25700 gallons
Provisions 20 days
Personnel 20 days

Departed area due to low fuel state after thirty days and traversing thousand of miles in area. Calculations showed Drum has just enough fuel required to reach Midway enroute to Pearl Harbor, as directed in operational orders.

(U) Communications, Radar, and Sonar Countermeasures-APR-

APR-1 RWR was out of commission for most of the patrol thus difficult to judge effectiveness. Ship based radar seemed about the same as usual. However, given the performance of patrol aircraft, believe they are now routinely equipped with a surface search radar as well as underwater detection gear of some type, perhaps Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) gear.

(V) Remarks

This was a busy, and challenging patrol with majority of operations, and ALL of combat operations conducted close to shore in mostly shallow waters. The enemy has certainly increased it's ASW patrols in the home islands, which proved a constant nuisance.

For two patrols now, every enemy fishing boat in waters near home islands has been armed with machine guns and presumably radios. It is also believed that they ferry cargo around, possibly ammunition, judging by how many of these small craft quickly erupt in flames. Drum was involved in more gun actions than is typical for a patrol. Boats should be provided extra ammunition in future patrols to insure they can counter this new threat.

The overall dearth of traffic in once busy sea lanes is an indicator of the Japanese merchant marine and Imperial Navy's current state of affairs.

Drum is scheduled for a major overhaul and refit prior to the next patrol (her 14th), which is very much needed.

.

Ludwig van Hursh

09-23-21, 01:12 PM

This is a old and short story but I just saw this thread and thought you guys might find it funny.

I was traversing the Sulu Sea in command of the USS S-27, fresh from my lackluster attempt to intercept a Japanese invasion force. As per usual, as I do not trust my officers to plot a course, I plotted a wonderfully efficient course through the Sulu and Celebes Sea in order to reach the new base in Java. Speaking of Java I grabbed myself a cup of coffee and was proceeding to take over in the control room when suddenly my XO alerts me that the boat was in shallow waters, odd considering we were in the middle of the Sulu Sea.

Thinking that he had had a mental breakdown I went up to the bridge to look for myself but before I could ascend the first rung there was a crash. Coming to on the port side of the control room I managed to pick my way over the bodies of my gallant crew and out of the hatch to the bridge where I unceremoniously rolled out and onto the hard sandy ground of a small island no larger than the boat itself. Speaking of the boat, the poor S-27 was halfway up on the island rolled onto her port side with a fire emitting from her propellers, as we all know propellers are quite flammable.

My gallant crew did not survive the encounter and I was presumed KIA as well but luckily I escaped to report that the Japanese were dropping islands in the middle of the sea.

THE END???????
--------------------------------------
All joking aside this was probably the funniest thing that has ever happed to my years of playing both SH3 and SH4. I somehow managed the plot my course to go over the only island in the middle of the sea, and not having my glasses at the time didn't help so I didn't even see the little X for the island when zoomed out. I should add that this is not the only loss of the S-27 under my command though the other more recent story I might tell another time.

Hope you guys enjoyed the hilariously short adventures of Lieutenant Commander Robert Dunne III the most unaware captain in all the silent service!
:Kaleun_Cheers:

Bubblehead1980

09-23-21, 11:26 PM

Ludwig van Hursh

09-24-21, 08:15 AM

lol yes, have to be careful, some islands only show up if zoomed in. When I first started running SH 4 way back had it happen and learned. Last time did this was when first started running TMO with the nav map makeover mod, which I believe added some small islands in the Borneo, Singapore, Java Sea areas. I was cruising along at night and time compression dropped . I went to bridge and in darkness could see something, I surmised land so went back emergency, still ran aground but was able to back off thanks to the reduced speed at impact. Little tiny island in the Karimata Straits area.

Thing is this happened more than a few times in WW II to US subs, S-39 comes to mind. Then you have the Darter which run aground on bombay shoals in South China Sea in October 44 while pursuing a damaged heavy cruiser, she was stuck and had to be abandoned, scuttled.

Well S-27 in real life also ran aground though it waited until it was in Alaska to do it, I think when this happened to me it was still December of 41.

Bubblehead1980

09-26-21, 12:25 PM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
100 difficulty cams off, contacts on.

Note: This is the first time in all of my years of running TMO have managed to complete the entire war (well early 1942 when started new construction) until end of war in a Gato, or anything "below" a Balao Class without getting killed. TMO is tough and the boats who can't dive as deep face more of a challenge. I have started in January 1944 in a Gato and survived the war, but never from 42 when the class first becomes available I definitely had some close calls during the 14 patrols of this career, but managed to survive.

For all but the 12th, 13th, and 14th patrols(little to no traffic in those areas nor in the sim at the time, so went elsewhere) , I had orders to the actual areas Drum patrolled.

This also allowed me to test my TMO Update from early in the war until the end, see how things unfold in the campaign, and pretty happy overall.

As many may have read in this thread, I documented all 14 patrols in detailed reports and even began to write them in the style of actual WW II patrol reports utilizing data recorded during the patrol. Minute details of attacks such as Gyro Angles, Torpedo Tracks, Course etc. was gathered from the TDC in the sim. If not aware, can place your cursor over the TDC panel (2D) upper and lower dials, will provide these details. If the PK is activated, will update. Things such as serial numbers etc info not in game were stylized after the actual patrol reports.

With the 3D TDC/Radar mod which is incorporated in TMO, can get a lot of great information by studying the dials as they update the solution. I run most patrols without map contacts, so makes for a challenging but interesting time.

I also, by editing the career track files, "switched" Captains throughout the career at appropriate times and used the names of actual CO's for the Drum at appropriate time periods. This career served as a test bed for a future series of "campaigns" plan to develop, where player plays through a boats career, to the actual patrol areas. Drum will be first, followed by Tang, etc.

https://i.postimg.cc/sDY0cgDx/combatinsignia.png (https://postimages.org/)

War Patrol Report
USS Drum SS-228
War Patrol Fourteen
1 July-19 August 1945

(A) Prologue

Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H., from thirteenth war patrol on 30 March 1945.

Sent to Hunters Point, San Francisco, California, for overhaul and refit, including dry docking.

Arrived Hunters Point, San Francisco, California, on April 11, 1945.

The following major refit work was completed on Drum during the refit period following War Patrol Thirteen:

1.)5 inch 25 Caliber Wet Mount Gun added forward and aft. (Aft mount removed before patrol at Submarine Base Pearl Harbor.)

2.) Single 40 MM Bofors Cannon replaced Twin 20 MM Oerlikon on fore AA platform.

3.) SV Radar replaced SD Radar.

4.) Conning tower cut down aft to further reduce silhouette.

6.) No.1 periscope replaced with improved "night" periscope.

7.) JT Listening Gear installed to replace JP-1 Listening Gear.

Executive Officer Lieut. A.N. Callaghan, USN, detached for new construction on 15 April 1945, relieved as Executive Officer by Lieut. A.L. O Leary, USN.

Ens. L.Y. Hammond, USN, promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade, effective 1 April 1945.

Ens. M.A. Rossi, USN, and Ens. I.T. Abele, USN, reported aboard 1 May 1945.

CPO. W.S. Braun, USN, replaced CPO B.J. Sanders, USN, as Chief of the Boat (COB), followed Sander's detachment to short duty.

CPO's, B.B Scott, and H.A. Gregory, USN, reported aboard. PO 1/c D.R. Muller promoted to CPO effective 10 April 1945.

In addition to the wardroom and senior enlisted changes, forty crewmembers were detached with forty mostly inexperienced replacements reporting aboard. In addition to training during the refit period, intense drills will be conducted en route to area on new patrol to insure maximum readiness of the crew.

Ready for Sea 1 July 1945.

(B) Narrative

Officers and Chief Petty Officers.

File Number Name Number of War Patrols
78641 Lt. Comdr. F.M. Eddy, USN (CO) 9
919543 Lieut. A.L. O Leary, USN (XO) 11
161064 Lieut. G.P.A. Romano, USN 7
109492 Lieut. (jg) L.Y. Hammond,USNR 5
228826 Ens. N.T. Connaway, USNR 5
831858 Ens. M.A. Rossi, USN 0
190345 Ens. I.T. Abele, USN 0

Service Number Name Number of War Patrols
321 19 14 Braun, W.S., CTM, (COB) USN 12
223 47 64 Ferrall,E.W., CEM, USN 11
328 60 88 Stevens, W.E., CMoMM, USN 7
425 87 91 Gregory, H.A., CMoMM, USN 8
391 21 42 Muller, D.R., CMoMM, USN 7
334 84 19 Scott, B.B., CMoMM, USN 0

1 July

0930 Depart Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor for patrol area via Midway.

1230 Trim Dive.

1250 Surfaced.

2 July

0900 Gunnery Drill. Fired 5 inch, 40 MM, and 20 MM guns.

0930 Emergency Dive Drill. Simulated SD contact closing fast. Dive Time is 38 seconds.

0935 Torpedo Approach and Attack Drill on simulated target.

2300 Submerged for night periscope attack drill.

2350 Surfaced.

3 July

En route to Midway

4 July

En route Midway.

5 July

1030 Docked at Midway Island for refuel.

1302 Refuel complete. Depart Midway Island for patrol area: Sea of Okhotsk and Kuril Islands.

1640 Trim Dive.

1700 Surfaced.

6 July

En route patrol area.

7 July

1730 Storms. Overcast with moderate fog, heavy seas with 10-12 ft waves.Wind speed 15 meters per second, direction 244.

1915 Storms cleared.

8 July

En route patrol area.

9 July

En route patrol area.

10 July

1000 Storms set in. Overcast, heavy wind, rain, seas, and fog. 10-12 ft waves. Wind 15 meters per second direction 002.

1840 Storms cleared.

11 July

En route patrol area.

12 July

0030 Entered Patrol Area.

1740 Submerged for attack.

1741 Sound contact: Warship bearing 299 Long Range. Closing medium speed.

1743 General Quarters- Torpedo.

1800 Spotted Mikura Class Type B Coastal Defense/Escort Vessel bearing 292, estimated range 6500 yards.

1816 ATTACK NO.1 Fired MK 27 Homing Torpedo.

1821 Torpedo Missed.

1828 Secured General Quarters

2049 Possible props noises 027 degrees very long range.

2245 Surfaced

2251 SJ contact bearing 295 12 NM. 47-55 N 153-4 E

2350 SJ contact is a large iceberg. 48-6 N 153-1 E 10 NM East Matsuwa Island.

13 July

0519 Sighted fishing boats 48-21 N 153-37 E.

0520 General Quarters-Battle Surface-Gun Action.

0529:15 Opened Fire. GUN ACTION NO.1

0529:31 Direct hits caused boat to exploded. Boat destroyed.

0532 Ceased Fire. Three fishing boats sunk. 48-20 N 153-38 E

0540 Secured General Quarters.

1521 SV contact bearing 081 9 NM, closing. Submerged. AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.1

1915 Sound reports distant props bearing 131.

1916 Surfaced. Course 299° to investigate.

1922 SJ contacts bearing 341 14 NM 48-54 N 154-25 E PPI indicates convoy.

2131 Convoy rounded west side of Kharimkotan Island, Drum proceeded east of side to cut through the straight between Kharimkotan and Onekotan Islands to head off the convoy.

2211 Regained SJ contact with convoy round Kharimkotan Island. Bearing 316 11 NM. 49-12 N 154-37 E.

2214- General Quarters

2229 Smoke from convoy sighted bearing 260.

14 July

0130 Quarter moon set. Turned to course 195 for night surface attack.

0202 Convoy Sighted. 49-38 N 154-42 E Course 037 Speed 8 knots.

0216 ATTACK NO. 2

0218 All torpedoes impacted targets as aimed. Drum turned away for high speed run to west. Do not believe escorts had a fix on Drum as received no gunfire.

0221 HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 tons sunk at 04-37 N 39-37 N.

0224 TAIHOSAN MARU 1850 tons sunk at 04-37 N 39-37 N.

0240 Secure General Quarters.

0300 SJ contact 314 14 NM 49-55 N 154-38 E

0347 Visual contact on a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat, likely responding to area after alerted to earlier attack. Avoided contact.

1035 Submerged for patrol West of Paramushiru Island.

1044 Sound reports warship closing from bearing 035, medium range. Likely a patrol.

1109 Mikura Class Type B Coastal Defense/Escort Vessel spotted, bearing 145 4500 yards, closing, fast. Believe Drum has been detected.

1110 Rigged for Silent Running. Rigged for Depth Charge.

1119:10 Depth charge explosions astern, not close.

1119:44 Pinging by enemy.

1122 Escort overhead.

1123:10 Splashes in water.

1123:30 Multiple DC explosions, fairly close. Boat shaken. Drum Depth: 387 ft

1140 Escort several thousand yards astern , hunting. Appears to have lost contact with Drum.

1435 Second warship contact bearing 241 long range. Believe this is another ASW responding to reports of submarine presence.

2000 Surfaced. Ser course to patrol the La Perouse-Paramushiru sea lanes in Sea of Okhotsk.

15 July

Patrol

16 July

Patrol

17 July

Patrol

18 July

Patrol

19 July

Patrol

20 July

0602 SJ Contact bearing 042 14 NM. 49-16 N 144-32 E 10 NM E of Karafuto Island. PPI indicates NNW bound convoy hugging coast.

0746 Submerged for attack.

0750 General Quarters.

0905 Convoy zigged to starboard, ruining set up.

0907 Passed thermal layer at 150 feet.

0909 Escort pinging.

0914 Depth charge explosions astern, not close. Heavy seas preventing accurate tracking of Drum. Drum at 200 ft. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running.

0919 More DC explosions.

1100 Secured General Quarters.

1215 Secured from Silent Running.

1219 Surface for end around on convoy.

1550 General Quarters

1608 Submerged for attack.

1637 Convoy sighted.50-01 N 144-02 E. Course 330 speed 9 knots. Three AK, screen consists one Chidori, one MS, three PC escorts.

1648 ATTACK NO. 3 Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from stern tubes.

1651 Torpedoes impacted bow area in succession. Large fires, ship appears seriously damaged. Type A escort is 1100 yards away bearing 180. Spotted scope just as torpedoes impacted. Escort changed course at high speed for Drum's scope, pinging on short scale. Ordered 350 feet depth, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1652 at Thermal layer 95 feet. Deployed SBT-1 decoy at 105 feet.

1654:21 Splashes overhead.

1654:32 DC explosions. more pinging. Drum at 330 ft.

1655 More splashes. DC explosions.

1656 Drum at 375 ft.

1700 Many depth charge explosions astern. Escorts may be focused on SBT-1 decoy deployed.

1828 Secured General Quarters.

1835 Begin stern torpedo reload. Forward torpedo room removing MK 18's from Tubes 1,2, 3,4,5 to replace with MK 16 and MK 14 for future night surface attack on convoy. Remained submerged during torpedo reload and swap out due to heavy sea state.

2054 Torpedo reload and swap out completed.

2358 Radar Depth. SJ radar has convoy bearing 210 10 NM.

2359 Surfaced. Sea state improved from heavy to moderate.

21 July

0239 Regained SJ contact. Battery sufficiently charged for submerged attack. Night periscope attack in lieu of surface attack due to moonlight.

0245 General Quarters-Torpedo.

0250 Submerged for attack.

0318 Radar Depth.

0346 ATTACK NO 4. Fired two MK 16 torpedoes.

0347 Both torpedoes impacted target. Pinging began immediately. Drum rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running.

0348 MADRAS MARU 3790 tons sunk at 50-33 N 143-39 E. Ordered depth of 350 feet.

0351 Pinging. Escorts closing.

0353 Depth charge explosions astern. Passed thermal layer 170 feet.

0354 Short scale pinging. Escort closing. SBT-1 decoy deployed

0355 Escort overhead. Splashes audible.

0356 DC explosions.

0358 Escort close bearing 050 pinging short scale.

0359 DC explosion, close. Boat shaken. Drum at 380 feet.

0401 Short scale pinging. Escort c losing from astern Deployed SBT-1 decoy. Drum to 390 feet.

0402 DC explosions astern.

0403 Pinging, short scale.

0405 DC explosions.

0500 Escorts appear to have lost contact with Drum.

0530 Secured General Quarters.

0606 Periscope depth.

0607 Surfaced for end around.

0754 Convoy changed course to NE heading away from Karafuto Island. Believe sea lane establishedtraffice traffic exits La Perouse or ports on Hokkaido, runs along the Karafuto/Sakhalin coast the into the Northern Sea of Okhotsk, possibly into Russian waters to avoid submarine attack. Convoy took heading 025° at 50-57 N 143-46 E.

1046 Regained SJ contact bearing 334 15 NM. 05-20 N 143-55 E.

1104 Smoke sighted 090 estimated 8 NM.

1105 General Quarters-Torpedo

1118 Submerged for attack.

1154 Periscope depth. Convoy at bearing 056. Course 045 speed 8.5 knots. One AK, one Chidori escort leading, one Type A on starboard, one unknown on port. Escort is off on "sweep" permitting Drum to close target.

1159 Pinging. Drum detected. Chidori closing. Turned towards Chidori for down the throat shot.

1202 Attempted to fire MK 18 in tube # 4, torpedo failed to fire (See Damage and Defects Section) . With range now too close to fire ordered emergency dive. Released SBT-1 decoys. Ordered 350 feet.

DC splashes heard as Chidori roared overhead. Rigged for depth charge and silent running.

DC explosions. Boat shaken.

1204 Pinging.

1207 DC explosions. close Boat shaken. Depth: 375 ft

1210 DC explosions, close.

1400 Secured General Quarters.

1508 Surfaced for end around.

2025 Regained SJ contact with convoy 004 12 NM 51-43 N 145-0 E.

22 July

0102 General Quarters-Torpedo. Full moon, opted for submerged night periscope attack.

0133 Submerged for attack.

0153 ATTACK NO. 5 Fired two MK 14 torpedoes.

0154 Torpedo Impact! Amidships.

0155 Torpedo Impact! Forward. Vessel on fire.

0158:31 WATANABE MARU 3600 tons sunk. 52-01 N 145-25 E.

0158:55 PC type escort bearing 120 1000 yards. Ordered dive to 300 ft. Rigged for Silent Running and Depth Charge.

0202 DC explosions. close, boat shaken. Damage reported. (See damage section) Drum depth: 340 ft.

0205-0300 Multiple Depth charge attacks from escorts. No damage.

0400 Secured General Quarters.

0730 Submerged.

2200 Surfaced

23 July

Patrolled Northern Sea of Okhotsk along suspected Karafuto-Paramushiru shipping lanes.

24 July

0943 Spotted several icebergs. 53-15 N 150 14 E

25 July

Patrolled Northern Sea of Okhotsk along suspected Karafuto-Paramushiru shipping lanes.

26 July

Patrolled Northern Sea of Okhotsk along suspected Karafuto-Paramushiru shipping lanes.

27 July

Patrolled Northern Sea of Okhotsk along suspected Karafuto-Paramushiru shipping lanes.

28 July

Patrolled Northern Sea of Okhotsk along suspected Karafuto-Paramushiru shipping lanes.

29 July

0502 Spotted fishing boats bearing 042 5500 yards.

0503 General Quarters-Battle Surface-Gun Action.

0512 GUN ACTION NO. 2. Commenced firing.

0523 Ceased fired. Three fishing boats 200 tons each (estimated) sunk at 49-10 N 154-52 E and 49-10 N 154-53 .

0649 Spotted fishing boats 000 5660 yards. General Quarter Battle Surface Gun Action.

0558 GUN ACTION NO.3 Commenced firing.

0611 Ceased Fire. Three fishing boats sunk by gunfire. 49-14 N 154-57 E

1331 SV contact bearing 089 8.8 NM. AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 2. Submerged.

1558 Surfaced.

1757 SV contact bearing 301 9 NM. Submerged.

2214 9 NM NNE of Matsuwa.

30 July

0015 Surfaced.

0047 Iceberg spotted 000 5700 yards. 48-12 N 153 07 E. 7 NM NE Matsuwa Island.

0500 Submerged for patrol off Matsuwa Island.

1100 Sound reported distant props bearing 040-050.

1155 Surfaced.

1220 PC arrived in Drum's former location and began searching. Possibly spotted by shore observers.

1232 Surfaced to clear Matsuwa.

1417 SV contact bearing 122 10 NM. Range steady. AIRCRAFT CONTACT #4

1426 SV contact closing. Submerged to avoid.

1549 Surfaced.

1650 Spotted fishing boats bearing 350 range 8000 yards.

1653 General Quarters-Battle Surface- Gun Action.

1700 GUN ACTION NO. 4 Commenced firing.

1710 Ceased fire. Four fishing boats sunk.

1712 Secure General Quarters.

31 July

0108 SJ contact bearing 325 14 NM. 47-5 151-54. PPI indicates convoy hugging coast of Simusir Island.

0125 General Quarters-Torpedo

0133 Submerged for attack.

0224 ATTACK NO. 6 Fired three MK 18 and one MK 27 homing torpedo. from stern tubes.

0227 Three torpedoes impacted lead AK.

0228 Pinging. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running. Drum to 300 ft.

0232 Torpedo Impact ! MK 27 homing torpedo hit target. Believe to be the trailing AK.Massive secondary explosions audible as well as sounds of ship sinking.

0233 Pinging. DC explosions near by. Escort closing.

0400 Secure General Quarters.

0600 Periscope/Radar depth. All clear. Secure Silent Running.

0605 Remained submerged for the day at 200 ft. Periscope observations at 0900, 1200, 1600, 2250.

2300 Surfaced.

1 August

2000 Storms. Overcast, heavy seas, precipitation, winds.

2 August

0007 SJ contact on stationary object. Believe to be iceberg. Storms prevent investigation.

0636 Received orders from COMSUBPAC to sweep the southern coast of Hokkaido.

3 August

2200 Patrolling Southern Coast of Hokkaido

4 August

Patrolling Southern coast of Hokkaido, en route back to Okhotsk

5 August

Patrol

6 August

Patrol

2100 Evening FOX mentioned dropping of "Atomic Weapon" on Hiroshima. City reported destroyed.

Set course to patrol Karafuto/Terpeniya Bay.

2136 SJ contacts bearing 004 14 NM. 44-41 N 143 22 E. PPI indicates convoy off coast of Northern Hokkaido.

2140- General Quarters-Torpedo

2203 Submerged for attack.

2235 ATTACK NO. 7 Fired four MK 18 at lead AK.

2236 Pinging. Escort closing bearing 080. Rig for depth charge, silent running.

2238 Thermal layer 136 ft. Torpedoes missed. SBT-1 decoy deployed.

2239 Multiple DC explosions. Drum 268 feet. 12 ft off bottom. Escort appears to have dropped on decoy instead of Drum.

2244 Pinging. Escort closing

2245 DC explosions, close.

2250 DC explosions. Boat shaken.

2251 DC explosions close. Damage reported. See damage section.

2352-2259 Many depth charges astern. Escorts attacking decoys.

7 August

0003 Periscope/radar depth. Lone contact bearing 180 7800 yards.

0004 Surfaced. Escort heard Drum surfacing, closed fast. Drum sped away.

0006 Engines on overload, escort pursuing. 22.5 knots sustained speed, peaked at 23.0 knots.

0010 PPI indicates two other escorts heading for Drums position.

0052-Last reserve torpedo(MK 16) loaded into Tube # 4. Drum has four torpedoes remaining. One aft (Tube 8 MK 18) and three (Tubes 4, MK 16, Tubes 5 and 6 MK 18) bow. remain.

0309 Convoy resumed consist course. Prepared for surface torpedo attack.

0414 ATTACK NO. 7. Fired one MK 16 torpedo (Tube #4)

0416 Torpedo impact!

0419 AKITA MARU 3936 tons sunk at 44-24 N 143-45 E.

0430 Secured General Quarters. Dawn in less than one hour, will attack after breakfast and convoy has chance to settle down.

0743 Submerged for Attack.

0750 General Quarters-Torpedo.

0815 On observation, plot showed convoy would overrun Drum, too close for bow shot. With only one torpedo aft, this was not optimal, then began a turn away to open range, then a turn back for a bow shot. Lead escort came with 1200 yards during this maneuver but Drum was not detected.

0839 ATTACK NO. 9 Fired two MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 5 and 6. All bow torpedoes expended.

0841 Torpedo impacted target, setting off a massive explosion, engulfing the vessel in a fireball. similar to when a tanker is torpedoed. While an AK, possible was loaded with fuel. Second torpedo hit five seconds later, but was redundant.

0842 Pinging. Type C escort closing. Lead escort coming about towards Drum. Lead escort identified as a Otori Class Torpedo Boat. Rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0843 Thermal layer 134 ft.

0845 Escort passed overhead. Many DC explosions Drum at 265 ft. Charges were close but set too shallow it seems.

0847 Sounds confirms target sunk AK torpedoed sunk. WATANABE MARU (?) 3600 tons sunk.

0849 Escort passed overhead. Many DC explosions Boat shaken severely.

0855 SBT-1 Decoy deployed

0856 Escort passed overhead. DC explosions. Close. Boat shaken. Damage reported. (See damage section)

0858 Sound has second escort (presumed the Otori) closing fast bearing 130. Two more warship contacts closing at high speed, from long range at bearing 295.

0901 Pinging.

0904 Pinging. Escort closing from 170.

0906 Escort passed overhead. DC explosions. Close. Boat shaken. Drum at 380 ft. Damage reported(See Damage Section)

0909 Sound reports two warships closing from north. Likely ASW vessels trying to box in and block Drum's escape to deeper waters.

0911 Escort appears to be attacking decoys. DC explosion astern, distant.

1015 Escorts astern, long range.

1236 Secured General Quarters.

1409 Distant depth charges heard by sound. Escorts still hunting Drum. At periscope depth, secured silent running.

1411 Surfaced.

8 August

Patrolled off Hitokappu Bay. SJ contact was made with ships in the bay, but with one torpedo remaining and low fuel, did not seem prudent to attempt to enter the bay for an attack.

9 August

0030 After thirty nine days on patrol, with one torpedo remaining, and low fuel state, set course for Pearl Harbor via Midway.

1900 Evening Fox mentioned second Atomic Weapon dropped on Nagasaki with similar results to the bombing of Hiroshima.

10 August

En route Midway.

11

En route Midway.

12 August

En route Midway.

13 August.

En Route Midway

14 August

En route Midway

15 August

0200 Received message from COMSUBPAC that Japan has unconditionally surrendered, the war is over.

0700 Docked Midway for refuel.

1100 Departed Midway for Pearl Harbor.

16 August

En route Pearl Harbor.

17 August

En route Pearl Harbor.

18 August

En route Pearl Harbor.

19 August

0834 Docked at Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

(C) Weather

The weather in the area was normal for the Sea of Okhotsk, and Kuril Islands. A near constant fog and cloud cover was present as well as cold temperatures, arctic squalls, with heavy ice cold seas. However, multiple days and nights were pleasant with calm, almost lake like waters.

(D) Tidal Information

The currents encountered in Sea of Okhotsk, in and around the Kuril Islands group corresponded to those predicted by the pilot charts, current charts, and coast pilots.

(E) No aids were encountered. Icebergs presented a navigational hazard, especially in the straits between various islands.

(F) Air Contacts

AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.1

Date: 13 July 1945

Time: 1521

Position: 49-0 N 154-20 E

Bearing: 081

Range: 9 NM

Altitude: 1000 ft

Course:015°

Speed:120 kts

Visual: No

Radar: SV

Type: Unknown

Own Ship: 115° 10 knots Surfaced.

Remark: Submerged to avoid at 1521.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.2

Date: 29 July 1945

Time: 1331

Position: 48-24 N 153-51 E

Bearing: 089

Range: 8.8 NM, closing.

Altitude: 800 ft

Course:135°

Speed:150 kts (estimated)

Visual: No

Radar: SV

Type: Unknown

Own Ship: 220° 10 knots Surfaced.

Remark: Submerged to avoid at 1332

AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.3

Date: 29 July 1945

Time: 1757

Position: 48-14 N 153-27 E

Bearing: 301

Range: 9 NM, closing.

Altitude: 900 ft

Course:340°

Speed:120 kts (estimated)

Visual: No

Radar: SV

Type: Unknown

Own Ship: 260° 10 knots Surfaced.

Remark: Submerged to avoid at 1757.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.4

Date: 30 July 1945

Time: 1418

Position: 47-53 N 153-13 E

Bearing: 122

Range: 9 NM. Steady (initially) Began closing 1426 6 NM at time of submergence.

Altitude: 1500 ft

Course:190° (initial) 290° (final)

Speed:120 kts

Visual: No

Radar: SV

Type: Unknown

Own Ship: 295° 10 knots Surfaced.

Remark: Submerged to avoid.

(G) Attack Data

Torpedo Attacks:

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 14

Time: 1816 (I) Date: 12 July 1945 Lat. 47-44 N., Long. 152-53 E.

Description:

Mikura Class Type B Coastal Defense/Escort vessel on patrol 5 NM off coast Russawa Island.

Ships Sunk:

None.

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

None.

Target Draft 13.1 feet, Course 215°, Speed 15 knots, Range yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 125°, Depth 63 feet, Angle 43° (at firing)

Type Attack

Daytime Periscope Attack with MK 27 "Cutie" homing torpedo. Torpedo missed.

Torpedo Attack # 1

Tubes Fired #6
Track Angle 101°S
Gyro Angle 9°R
Depth Set 11 ft
Course 155°
Point of Aim MOT
Hit or Miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 27
Serial No. 66451
Exploder 8-3
Serial No. 9992
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual - -
Mark Warhead 27-1
Serial No. 5679
Explosive Torpex
Firing Interval 0
Type Spread 0
Sea Conditions Calm

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 14

Time: 0216 (I) Date: 14 July 1945 Lat. 49-38 N., Long. 154-44 E.

Description:

Small convoy hugging coast of Onekotan Island. One small AK, one large AK, two escorts.

Target #1: HAKUSIKA MARU AK 8150 tons

Target #2: TAIHOSAN MARU AK 1850 tons

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Location Time
HAKUSIKA MARU AK 8150 tons 04-37 N 39-37 N 0221

TAIHOSAN MARU AK 1850 tons 04-37 N 39-37 N 0224

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visual observation from bridge.

Target#1 Draft 28.5 feet, Course 215°, Speed 15 knots, Range 3400 yds. (at firing)

Target#2 Draft 12.1 feet, Course 035°, Speed 9 knots, Range 3100 yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 4 knots, Course 131° Depth: Surfaced Angle (at firing) Target #1: 69°P Target #2: 80°S

Type Attack

Night Surface Attack. First firing of new MK 16 torpedoes. HAKUSIKA MARU burned profusely and sunk quickly after three solid hits amidships, the third torpedo was redundant in this case due to the larger warhead of MK 16. TAIHOSAN MARU slowed after first torpedo hit the trailing HAKUSIKA MARU, and was in a port turn when the fourth torpedo slammed into bow area, causing a large fire. One minute after impact, a massive, delayed secondary explosion occurred and the small ship quickly slipped beneath the waves.

Torpedo Attack # 2

Tubes Fired #1 #2 #3 #4
Track Angle 79°P 79°P 79°P 99°P
Gyro Angle 11°L 11°L 11°L 352°L
Depth Set 10 ft. 10 ft 10 ft 5 ft
Course 141° 141° 141° 123°
Point of Aim MOT MOT MOT MOT
Hit or Miss Hit Hit Hit Hit
Point of Impact MOT MOT MOT Forward Mast
Erratic No No No No
Mark Torpedo 16 16 16 16
Serial No. 83401 83402 83403 83404
Mark Exploder 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5
Serial No. 10000 9993 9991 9994
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - - - - - -
Mark Warhead 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1
Serial No. 9420 9425 9431 9471
Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval 5 5 5 2
Type Spread 0 0 0 0
Sea Conditions Calm Calm Calm Calm

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3, Patrol No. 14

Time: 1648 (I) Date: 20 July 1945 Lat. 50-02 N., Long.144-03 E.

Description:

Convoy of three AK in single column with six escorts (Chidori, Shimushu Type A Escort, four PC) hugging coast of Karafuto Island

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Location Time
HAKUSIKA MARU* AK 8150 50-02 N 144-03 E 1658

* Similar to HAKUSIKA MARU likely of same class.

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:
Visual observation of torpedo impacts via periscope. Fires visible along with sudden down angle by bow before Drum forced to go deep to avoid escorts. Sound check confirms of vessel sinking at proper bearing.

Target Draft 28.5 feet, Course 330°, Speed 9 knots, Range 3000 yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 004°, Depth 60 feet, Angle 73° S (at firing)

Type Attack

Daytime Periscope Attack in heavy seas. Speed estimate was slightly fast at 9 knots, should have been set in TDC at 8.5 for MOT impact as aimed. However, the three MK 18 to bow caused serious damage to sink the vessel. A quick but ineffective counter attack by enemy escorts follow, thanks to the heavy sea state and thermal layer. One SBT-1 decoy was deployed but appears escort did not detect it until around 1700.

Torpedo Attack # 3

Tubes Fired #7 #8 #9
Track Angle 87°S 87°S 87°S
Gyro Angle 18°R 18°R 18°R
Depth Set 10ft 10ft 10ft
Course 61° 61° 61°
Point of Aim MOT MOT MOT
Hit or Miss Hit Hit Hit
Point of Impact Bow Bow Bow
Erratic No No No
Mark Torpedo 18-1 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 55892 555666 54580
Mark Exploder 8-5 8-5 8-5
Serial No. 9358 10072 9312
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - -
Mark Warhead 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 2438 2554 9933
Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval 5 5 5
Type Spread 0 0 0
Sea Conditions Heavy Heavy Heavy

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 4, Patrol No. 14

Time: 0346 (I) Date: 21 July 1945 Lat. 50-33 N., Long.13-41 E.

Description:

Follow up attack on convoy attacked in ATTACK No. 3 after end around. Two remaining AK in single column with six escorts (Chidori, Shimushu Type A Escort, four PC) hugging coast of Karafuto Island

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Location Time
MADRAS MARU AK 3790 50-33 N 143-49 E 0348

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visual observation via periscope of two torpedo hits amidships and astern on target at 0346. Torpedoes caused two large explosions and fires on board, vessel began to list quickly to starboard until sunk at 0348.

Target Draft 25.6 feet, Course 330°, Speed 8.5 knots, Range 1746 yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 250°, Depth 60 feet, Angle 89° S (at firing)

Type Attack

Night periscope attack in moderate seas due to moonlight and phosphorescence providing excellent visual conditions, not optimal for night surface attack. First use of newly installed No.1 "night periscope". In with the moonlight provided decent night time visual of target via periscope. Definite improvement over previous scopes for night attacks.

Torpedo Attack # 4

Tubes Fired #3 #4
Track Angle 100°S 100°S
Gyro Angle 8°R 8°R
Depth Set 10ft 10ft
Course 269° 269°
Point of Aim MOT MOT
Hit or Miss Hit Hit
Point of Impact MOT Aft Mast
Erratic No No
Mark Torpedo 16 16 16 16
Serial No. 83405 83406 83407 83409
Mark Exploder 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5
Serial No. 10021 10022 10023 10024
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - - - - - -
Mark Warhead 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1
Serial No. 9472 9480 9483 9487
Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval 5 5 5 2
Type Spread 0 0 0 0
Sea Conditions Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 5, Patrol No. 14

Time: 0153 (I) Date: 22 July 1945 Lat. 52-02 N., Long. 145-25E.

Description:

Follow up attack on convoy attacked in ATTACK No. 3 and 4 after end around. One remaining AK in single column with three escorts currently, forward, port flank, starboard flank with 1000 yards spacing. Other escorts likely trying to catch up. Convoy departed coastline and is heading NE into open waters of the Sea of Okhotsk towards Kuril Islands.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Location Time
WATANABE MARU AK 3706 52-01 N 145-25E 0157

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visual observation of torpedoes impacting target. Torpedoes impacted as aimed, with two large explosions upon impact. Large fire amidships area visible.

Target Draft 24.0 feet, Course 045°, Speed 8.5 knots, Range 1967 yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 148°, Depth 64 feet, Angle 81° P (at firing)

Type Attack

Submerged, night periscope attack in calm seas.

Torpedo Attack # 5

Tubes Fired #1 #2
Track Angle 92°P 92°P
Gyro Angle 359°L 359°L
Depth Set 10ft 10ft
Course 146° 146°
Point of Aim MOT Fore Mast
Hit or Miss Hit Hit
Point of Impact MOT Forward, under mast.
Erratic No No
Mark Torpedo 14-3 14-3
Serial No. 86641 7453
Mark Exploder 6-3 6-3
Serial No. 6441 4421
Actuation Set Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - -
Mark Warhead 14-3 14-3
Serial No. 5472 11480
Explosive Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval 5 5
Type Spread 0 0
Sea Conditions Calm Calm

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 6, Patrol No. 14

Time: 0224 (I) Date: 31 July 1945 Lat.47-0 N., Long.151 -57 E.

Description:

Two ship, four escort convoy hugging coastline.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Location Time
SEIA MARU AK 7590 46-59 N 151-57 E 0229

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Location Time
BIYO MARU AK 5425 46-59 151-57E 0232

Damage Determined By:
Visual observation of three torpedo hits in lead AK. Large explosion and fires followed second and third hits. Observed lead AK sink by the stern at 0229. At 0232, while Drum was at 300 ft, MK 27 "Cutie" impacted an enemy vessel. The torpedo impact was audible through the hull and on sound gear. A series of massive secondary explosions occurred just after impact. Based on last bearing of the torpedo and the mid sized AK, believe MK 27 tracked and hit the AK. Judging by the unusually large explosions, ship was carrying volatile cargo such as ammunition.

SEIA MARU
Target Draft 27 feet, Course 065°, Speed 9 kts, Range 2800 yds. (at firing)

BIYO MARU
Target Draft 24 feet, Course 065°, Speed 9 kts, Range 3100 yds. (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 005°, Depth 64 feet, Angle 88° P (at firing) (SEIA MARU) 78° P (BIYO MARU)

Type Attack

Submerged-Night Periscope in choppy seas with three quarters moon and phosphorescence.

Torpedo Attack # 6

Tubes Fired #7 #8 #9 #10
Track Angle 79°S 79°S 79°S 70°S
Gyro Angle 348° 348° 348° 335°
Depth Set 10ft 10ft 10ft 6ft
Course 329° 329° 329° 329°
Point of Aim MOT MOT MOT MOT
Hit or Miss Hit Hit Hit Hit
Point of Impact MOT MOT MOT Unknown
Erratic No No No No
Mark Torpedo 18-1 18-1 18-1 27
Serial No. 11776 12001 10915 66454
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - - - - - -
Mark Warhead 8-2 8-2 8-2 27-1
Serial No. 8472 8888 9104 1308
Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval 5 5 5 0
Type Spread 0 0 0 0
Sea Conditions Choppy Choppy Choppy Choppy

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 7 , Patrol No. 14

Time: 2235 (I) Date: 6 August 1945 Lat. 44-39, Long. 143-16.

Description:

Two ship four escort convoy sailing coast of Northern Hokkaido. Approached from port side of convoy.

Ships Sunk:

Ships Damaged:

None.

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:
None.

Target Draft 24 feet, Course 147°, Speed 9 kts, Range yds. 2800 (at firing)

AKITA MARU 3936 tons.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 220°, Depth 64 feet, Angle 80° P (at firing)

Type Attack

Submerged periscope attack at dusk. All torpedoes missed, as just a minute after firing, Drum was somehow detected by port flank escort. Alerted, the target changed course.

Torpedo Attack # 7

Tubes Fired #1 #2 #3 #4
Track Angle 90°P 79°P 79°P 79°P
Gyro Angle 0° 0° 0° 0°
Depth Set 10ft 10ft 10ft 10ft
Course 222° 222° 222° 222°
Point of Aim MOT MOT MOT MOT
Hit or Miss Miss Miss Miss Miss
Point of Impact - - - - - - - -
Erratic No No No No
Mark Torpedo 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 11182 12056 10922 10117
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - - - - - -
Mark Warhead 8-2 8-2 8-2 8-2
Serial No. 8499 8881 9109 9203
Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval 5 5 5 5
Type Spread 0 0 0 0
Sea Conditions Calm Calm Calm Calm

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 8 , Patrol No. 14

Time: 0414 (I) Date: 7 August 1945 Lat. 44-25, Long. 143-45.

Description:

Attack on Two ship four escort convoy sailing coast of Northern Hokkaido after end around. Approached from port side of convoy.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Location Time
AKITA MARU AK 3936 44-24 N 143-45 E 0419

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:
Observed MK 16 torpedo hit amidships of AKITA MARU. A large fire started amidships followed by a delayed secondary explosion 30-40 seconds later. Ship began to settle in the water. Observed target sink at

Target Draft 24 feet, Course 147°, Speed 9 kts, Range: 2556 yards (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 209°, Surfaced, Angle 78° P (at firing)

Type Attack
Night Surface attack in calms seas, light fog, with no moon.

Torpedo Attack # 8

Tubes Fired #1
Track Angle 89°P
Gyro Angle 0°
Depth Set 10ft
Course 210°
Point of Aim MOT
Hit or Miss Hit
Point of Impact MOT
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 16
Serial No. 83455
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual - -
Mark Warhead 8-2
Serial No. 8769
Explosive Torpex
Firing Interval 0
Type Spread 0
Sea Conditions Calm

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 9 , Patrol No. 14

Time: 0839 (I) Date: 7 August 1945 Lat. 44-11, Long. 144-14.

Description:

Follow up attack on remaining AK in convoy (ATTACK NO 6 and 7) at dawn. Two MK 18 remain torpedoes forward, one aft.

Ships Sunk:

Name Class Tonnage Location Time
WATANABE MARU (?) AK 3600 44-11 N 144-14 E 0842

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Visual observation of both torpedoes impacting target. Impact of first torpedo set off a massive explosion and fireball similar to how tankers exploded when torpedoed. The vessel was left a burning heap, the second torpedo hit was redundant. While not an AO, possible this AK was pulling tanker duty due to the enemy's reportedly having a shortage of tanker vessels.

Target Draft 24 feet, Course 110°, Speed 9 kts, Range: 1939 yards (at firing)

Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 030°, Depth 64 feet, Angle 88° S (at firing)

Type Attack

Submerged periscope attack at dawn in calm seas.

Torpedo Attack # 9

Tubes Fired #1 #2
Track Angle 88°S 88°S
Gyro Angle 14°R 14°R
Depth Set 10ft 10ft
Course 047° 047°
Point of Aim MOT MOT
Hit or Miss Hit Hit
Point of Impact Aft MOT
Erratic No No
Mark Torpedo 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 08999 9997
Actuation Set Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - -
Mark Warhead 8-2 8-2
Serial No. 8544 8897
Explosive Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval 5 5
Type Spread 0 0
Sea Conditions Calm Calm

(I) Gunnery

Gunnery

Ammunition: Rounds Type

5 inch 25 Caliber Gun: 300 HE

40 MM Bofors 1000 HE

20 MM 6000 HE

U.S.S. DRUM, Gun Action No. 1, Patrol No. 14

Time: 0529 (I) Date: 13 July 1945 Lat. 49-11 N ., Long. 154-52 E.

Description:

Dawn gunnery action with on armed fishing boats with 5 inch, 40 MM and 20 MM guns.

Target:

Three fishing boats. Estimated 200 tons. Armed with machine guns.

Range:

2000-1500 yards (at firing)

Angle:

40°-80°

Course: 05° (at commencement)

Speed: 5 knots

Own Ship:

130° 5-15 knots

5 inch 40 MM 20 MM

Rounds Expended: 8 49 91

Hits: 6 31 Undetermined

Misses: 2 18 Undetermined

Result:

Ceased fire 0532.Three fishing boats estimated 200 tons each sunk by gunfire. 48-20 N 153-38 E

Vessels exploded quite easily compared to past gun actions. Believe these boats were carrying volatile cargo, not just the catch of the day.

U.S.S. DRUM, Gun Action No. 2, Patrol No. 14

Time: 0512 (I) Date: 29 July 1945 Lat. 49-12 N ., Long. 154-55 E.

Description:

Dawn gunnery action. Commenced firing at 0512 on armed fishing boat with Drum's 5 inch, 40 MM and 20 MM guns in a broadside attack. Boat 1 exploded after three 5 inch gun hits and six 40 MM hits as well as unknown number of 20 MM hits.

Boat 2 was fired on from 3000 yards as it attempted to evade but was quickly dispatched with four rounds from the 5 inch gun.

Boat 3 was making its best speed in opposite direction but Drum easily overran her, closing to 1100 yards, swinging for broadside attack. 40 MM and 20 MM guns set target blaze, topped off with 3 five inch gun hits.

All three burning hulks remained afloat for a few minutes before finally sinking.Ceased firing 0523. All boats returned machine gun fire during the battle,, with no hits on Drum.

Target:
Three fishing boatsEstimated 200 tons, armed with machine guns.

Range:

2000-1100 yards (at firing)

Angle:

40°-100° 40° at commencement

Course: 030° (at commencement)

Speed: 6 knots (at commencement)

Own Ship:

211° 10 knots (at commencement)

5 inch 40 MM 20 MM

Rounds Expended: 14 32 223

Hits: 10 22 Undetermined

Misses: 4 10 Undetermined

Result:

All three fishing boats sunk. Each is estimated to be 200 tons. All were armed with machine guns which opened fire on Drum.

Boats 1 and 2 sunk at 49-11 N 154-53 E while the final boat sunk at 49-10 N 154-52 E.

U.S.S. DRUM, Gun Action No. 3, Patrol No. 14

Time: 0558 (I) Date: 29 July 1945 Lat. 49-14 N ., Long. 154-57 E.

Description:

Less than an hour after GUN ACTION NO. 2, spotted three more fishing boats. Dawn gunnery action. Commenced firing at 0558 on armed fishing boat with Drum's 5 inch, 40 MM and 20 MM guns.

Range:

3000-1100 yards (at firing)

Angle:

60°-100° 60° at commencement

Course: 035° (at commencement)

Speed: 5 knots (at commencement)

Own Ship:

205° 10 knots (at commencement)

5 inch 40 MM 20 MM

Rounds Expended: 12 96

Hits: 10 66 Undetermined

Misses: 2 30 Undetermined

Result:

Three fishing boats sunk 200 tons each at 49-14 N ., 154-57 E.

U.S.S. DRUM, Gun Action No. 4, Patrol No. 14

Time: 1700 (I) Date: 30 July 1945 Lat.47-56 N , Long. 152-556 E.

Description:

Engaged four armed fishing boats traveling in tight group. All opened fire. First three boats were hit with combo of 5 inch, 40, and 20 MM fire. Fourth boat was at 3500 yards fleeing and ws hit with five rounds of 5 inch ammo.

Range:

3500-1100 yards (at firing)

Angle: 0-70°

Course:150°

Speed: 6 knots

Own Ship:

277° 15 knots

5 inch 40 MM 20 MM

Rounds Expended: 22 101 311

Hits: 12 70 Undetermined

Misses: 10 31 Undetermined

Result:

Sunk four fishing boats-armed. 200 tons each. 47-57 N 152 56 E

(J) Mines

No mines were encountered on this patrol.

(K) Major Defects and Damage.

21 July

Defect-

1.) Torpedo tube door did not open when ordered, would not open. Torpedo was pulled from tube and repaired. Tube functional

22 July 1945 -Systems damaged by depth charge attack.

1.) Trim Pump

2.) Batteries-Aft

3.) Several seawater pipes and high pressure air lines

4.) Torpedo tubes # 4,5,6

5.) SV radar antenna

6.) Compressor

7.) Hydraulic pump

All damage repaired.

6 August 1945- Damage received from depth charge attack.

1.) Stern planes transmission

2.) Port prop shaft

3.) Stern tubes 7, 8, 9, 10.

4.) Rudder transmission

6.) Minor Flooding in Aft Torpedo Room.

7.Batteries-Stern

All damage repaired.

7 August 1945- Damage received by depth charge.

1.) Moderate flooding in aft torpedo room.

2.) Light flooding in crew berthing.

3.) Port prop shaft

4.)Batteries-Bow

5.) Seawater pips and air lines

6.) Trim pump

7.) No.1 Periscope

8.) No. 2 Periscope Head.

9.) 5 inch deck gun.

10.) No. 1 and No. 3 Diesels.

All damage repaired.

(L) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasion Tactics

No unusual anti-submarine measure were encountered. Enemy ASW was overall mediocre with undetermined and moderately effective counter attacks.

Surface patrols were quite common while air patrols were not. It is likely enemy has moved aircraft to the home islands to repel Allied forces operating off here coast.

Evasion tactics were standard for Drum SBT-1 decoys have proven quite useful, especially with operations typically so close to the coast.

(M) Radio

Radio function was normal.

9090 Kcs Signal started coming in at 1100 GCT with good strength. Started fading at 1400 GCT and came back in with good strength at 1530 GCT. Started fading again at 1900 GCT.
6045 Kcs Signal first starting coming in at 0900 GCT otherwise same as 9090 Kcs.
4515 Kcs At all times jammed too much for use.
16730 Kcs No data available. Were submerged during transmission times on this frequency.

(N) Radar

SJ Radar performed well. Typical detection range was 13-14 NM.

The new SV air search radar performed well and is a great additional providing bearing, altitude, course etc information as opposed to the old SD. Detection range was typically around 10 NM when close to land. In open ocean improved to around 15-16 NM.

(O) Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

Overall, the sound gear operated fine. However, sound conditions in the Sea of Okhotsk and Kuril Islands were overall not great for us or the enemy.

(P) Thermal Layers

Numerous thermal layers were encountered. Depths ranged from 80 ft to 260 feet. These aided great in evading enemy counter attacks.

(Q) Health, Food, and Habitability

The health of the crew during this war patrol was exceedingly good. Only 3 man days were lost, due to one case of gastro-enteritis, acute.

The food was palatable and well prepared. One new cook and one new baker did very good work on their first patrol and as a result the meals were much improved over the preceding few patrols.

The boat was comfortable throughout the patrol, largely thanks to the cooler climate of the assigned area.

(R) Personnel

Following the Thirteenth War Patrol, Drum underwent an overhaul and refit and experienced a high turnover of personnel in the process. Forty experienced men were detached with fort new, largely inexperienced men reporting aboard during the refit period, including two Ensigns who had yet to make a patrol. However, the crew rose to the occasion and performed with excellence.

Number on board 72
Number qualified at start 50
Number qualified at end 57
Number advanced in rating 7
Number first patrol men 25

(S) Miles Steamed-Fuel Used

Pearl Harbor to Midway 1350 Miles 25100 Gallons
Midway to Area 2369 Miles 31467 Gallons
In Area 6998 Miles 44707 Gallons
Area to Midway 2450 Miles 33900 Gallons
Midway to Pearl Harbor 1350 Miles 25892
Total 14517 Miles 161066 Gallons

(T) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 12
Days in Area 28
Days Enroute to Base 13
Days Submerged 11
Total Days of Patrol 53

(U) Factors of Endurance Remaining
Torpedoes 1
Fuel 27300 gallons
Provisions 15 days
Personnel 15 days

Limiting Factor of This Patrol:

Low fuel state and one torpedo remaining in after tubes.

(V Radio and Radar Countermeasures)

APR-1 only detected enemy radio once from a surface vessel and once from an aircraft (Air Contact #2)

Typical countermeasures towards our radios were employed by the enemy.

(V) Remarks

The performance of the new MK 16 torpedo was excellent. One MK 16 packs enough powwer to bring down most mid sized freighters. Two will finish off larger targets with relative ease.

The MK-27 "Cutie" homing torpedo proved effective as it sunk a ship that we chalked up to a miss. However, their slow speed require peculiar firing solutions and makes them practically useless against most escorts.

The new SV Air Search Radar is a tremendous improvement over the SD radar.

Many fishing boats engaged in later part of patrol exploded far more easily than before. Believe enemy used fishing bots to ferry fuel and ammo among the islands.

With the cessation of hostilities, this productive and challenging patrol proved to be the final war patrol of the Drum. Drum conducted a total of fourteen patrols between 1942 and 1945, amassing an outstanding record while experiencing many perils.

Ludwig van Hursh

09-27-21, 09:49 AM

Ok so as I stated before I have been killed in S-27 more than once though this time was not completely my fault. I started playing SH4 again a few months ago, with more knowledge on how real US subs performed and all that an with more realism settings turned on, not to the extent of Mr Bubblehead of course lol. I play with FotRS installed with limited resources but the color coded updating map contacts and the free camera and easy targeting for torpedoes. Some additional flavor text has been added to the story to make it not seem like so dry I guess.

Loss of S-27
December 29, 1941

With the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and other US, British, Dutch, etc possessions USS S-27 was dispatched to begin immediate patrols off the western coast of Luzon in the Philippines. Commanding her was recently promoted Lieutenant Commander John Hawkins, who had been preparing to return to the States to take command of a newer Fleet Boat, but this was put on hold so he could be put out to sea at once. The first half of the patrol was of relatively little note, no Japanese ships encountered. When the Japanese invasion force was sighted approaching the Lingayen Gulf, S-27 was rushed from her more southerly station to intercept and sink all it could, but by the time she reached the Gulf it was too late and she encountered only Japanese destroyers on patrol. She managed to sink one but expended four torpedoes in the process, three of them being duds. The next day she encountered a large Japanese task force consisting of two Kongo class battleships as well as heavy cruisers, destroyers, oilers, and other support ships but their speed was too quick to intercept them submerged and the daylight meant a surface attack was out of the question.

With the Battle of the Philippines in full swing S-27 was ordered north to patrol and sink ships off of Formosa. On the 28th of December, S-27 encountered a loan Japanese merchant in the perfect position to intercept, achieving a near text book firing angle she launched a submerged attack with two torpedoes, both of which hit and were not duds, the merchant sank and S-27 proceeded on its patrol. Hawkins ordered the boat to surface just after dusk to charge the batteries and then went to bed rousing just before dawn and took over the conn from his XO Lieutenant Allen. Preparations then began for diving for the day but these were done at a rather leisurely pace, this ultimately would spell doom for the boat. As dawn broke and only minutes from diving a Japanese attack aircraft appeared, no doubt alerted by the sinking of the merchant, and attacked S-27. Hawkins ordered an emergency dive and the helm hard to port into the direction of the aircraft to perhaps throw off its aim. The Japanese pilot was no rookie through and dropped his bomb near perfect on S-27 who had just about got away, her very stern being all that was out of the water.

The bomb exploded in the water on the starboard side a few yards away from the sub, incapacitating the crew and opening up seams in the hull to allow water to pour into the engine compartment. Chief Petty Officer Wilson was the only one not injured and informed the control room of the flooding. Hawkins ordered the boat to hold at its current depth of 80 feet but in the span of a minute too much water had filled the aft compartment and S-27 started going down by the stern. To compound this her electric engines were damaged and the aft dive planes jammed full down. Soon the boat began to dive out of control, with no engines to ascend, Hawkins ordered all ballast be blown as the boat sunk quickly past 150 feet. Finally At about 200 feet the boat slowed and then rose quickly to the surface. But no safety was found there either as the damage was assessed it was found the diesel engines were also damaged but could be fixed.

The crew scrambled to repair the leak and pump out the water which was proceeding successfully if glacially slow. The full account of the damage was the hull leak, damage to the servo for the aft dive plane, both electric motors, both diesel engines, and the air compressor. The deck gun had also suffered some minor shrapnel damage from a second bomb but it was not considered priority. By Noon the water had been pumped out and the leak repaired, work began on the engines, but no sooner had this started than three more Japanese aircraft appeared. Hawkins ordered a shallow dive, not wanting to put too much pressure on the leak repairs, and hope the Japanese hadn't spotted them. In the end though it did not matter as the boat reached periscope depth the patches failed and the engine compartment filled with water quickly and once again the boat sank by the stern and dove rapidly out of control. Not wasting any time on ceremony Hawkins ordered ballast be blown again but nothing happened the boat continued to dive, the crew frantically trying to coax the valves to open but before too long it became impossible as the boat was now nearly vertical and electric lighting was gone. But this didn't stop the crew from trying everything they could to save their boat, ultimately time ran out as the S-27 reached 357 feet the pressure became too great and she imploded taking all on board.

S-27 was declared missing in January 1942 by 1943 she was presumed lost and struck from the Naval Register. 1945 and the end of the War confirmed that all hands had been lost and post war Japanese records confirmed she had been sunk by aircraft, though no one would ever know how close the crew came to making it back.
-----------------------------------------------

So the meta reasons as to why S-27 was lost in my game were that I had to step away from my PC to make some coffee so didn't dive right before dawn like I usually do. And as for the ballast not blowing on the second disasterous dive was because in the hectic moment when I realized it wasn't going to level out I hit the wrong key for Emergency Blow since FotRS changed the key from the default game but at the time I assumed I didn't have enough air to surface. Only after I died was I like "$#!* I hit the wrong key!!!!".

This Silent Hunter death stuck out to me though since unlike my usual ones like running into an island, diving too deep, getting rammed by a destroyer, it probably was close to a lot of real boat losses among all countries who have lost subs.

Hope you enjoyed the story, though tragic, I did reload an earlier save and S-27 went on to have a very successful career and now Captain Hawkins commands the USS Gar.

Bubblehead1980

09-27-21, 08:15 PM

Bubblehead1980

09-28-21, 02:31 AM

Some screen shots from the Drum's 14th and final war patrol 1 July-August 1945 in the Sea of Okhotsk and Kurile Islands. (war ended while en route to Pearl Harbor from patrol area)

https://i.postimg.cc/L5XjGSrc/arctic-sunrise.png (https://postimages.org/) Artic Sunrise

https://i.postimg.cc/L5nZNTPR/Drum-Bridge1.png (https://postimages.org/) External cam was turned off but used the roaming free cam to "step outside". Shot of the OOD in cold weather gear on the bridge.

https://i.postimg.cc/pT0Ff7pq/Drum-Final-Configutration45.png (https://postimages.org/) Drum shortly after leaving Pearl Harbor in final configuration. 5 inch 25 cal deck gun forward, 40 MM bofors forward, with twin 20 MM conning tower aft and a twin 20 MM on the aft deck. SV radar antenna is visible as well.

https://i.postimg.cc/wxGN3CKB/Gato-Ladder-Front.png (https://postimages.org/) Gato ladder in control room is not in historically accurate position(much as possible within the sim)

https://i.postimg.cc/RV2wpjGY/Iceberg1-TMO.png (https://postimages.org/) Icebergs were encountered numerous times.

https://i.postimg.cc/8zWM2t0z/Iceberg2-TMO.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/MGmRTXxk/Iceberg3-TMO.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/mrjz4qNB/Iceberg-Periscope-TMO.png (https://postimages.org/) Icerberg viewed through late war periscope when extended while Drum on the surface.

https://i.postimg.cc/W4TFQjZ5/Kuriles1.png (https://postimages.org/) Kurile Islands

Not from this last patrol but a previous one. Shows the mines than can get you on the surface now and their explosion above surface. Pretty cool.

[url=https://postimages.org/]https://i.postimg.cc/cJSw0wpM/Darwin2.png (https://postimages.org/) Mine as viewed from surface.

https://i.postimg.cc/FRKfHZDc/mineexplosions1.png (https://postimages.org/) Mine exploding. Can be detonated with gunfire from deck gun or 20 MM/40 MM.

BritTorrent

09-28-21, 04:40 AM

Bubblehead1980

09-28-21, 05:22 AM

Are Icebergs and those mines a feature of your new mod? They look great.

Any idea on when you're hoping to release? I've been eagerly awaiting it!

Icebergs are native in TMO but rarely seen. I added them to be more of presence in artic areas for immersion , can be navigation hazards as well.

Yes, I increased the mines power so they actually will destroy a submarine if hit them (as would in real life) and they are now a threat on the surface in some areas, which will be explained in the readme. Really adds a whole new element to the sim, danger factor.

I plan to release later today. I am editing the README file now, making a final adjustment to one of the game files that slipped my mind.

I have uploaded the two ship packs required for the update. They are in the ships section of SH 4 downloads here at Subsim.

Glad you are looking forward to it. :Kaleun_Salute:

Ludwig van Hursh

09-28-21, 06:31 AM

Enjoyed the read. Thanks for sharing. What mods are you running or running stock?

Just Fall of the Rising Sun and the Fleet Boat Interior Mod. Also thanks for enjoying the story. :Kaleun_Cheers:

BritTorrent

09-28-21, 07:06 AM

Icebergs are native in TMO but rarely seen. I added them to be more of presence in artic areas for immersion , can be navigation hazards as well.

Yes, I increased the mines power so they actually will destroy a submarine if hit them (as would in real life) and they are now a threat on the surface in some areas, which will be explained in the readme. Really adds a whole new element to the sim, danger factor.

I plan to release later today. I am editing the README file now, making a final adjustment to one of the game files that slipped my mind.

I have uploaded the two ship packs required for the update. They are in the ships section of SH 4 downloads here at Subsim.

Glad you are looking forward to it. :Kaleun_Salute:

Cheers dude, I'll keep an eye out for that.

Do you use OTC with your version of TMO at all?

Bubblehead1980

09-28-21, 08:19 AM

Cheers dude, I'll keep an eye out for that.

Do you use OTC with your version of TMO at all?

Thanks, actually compressing it for upload as we speak.

I do not use OTC with my version of TMO, likely not compatible.

I did include my Real Scopes mods though.

Bubblehead1980

09-30-21, 09:03 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH
100 difficulty, cams off, contacts on.

Just finished my first "non test" patrol in the TMO 2.5 update. I am pretty happy overall. Quite the challenge.

USS Seal SS-183
War Patrol Report
First War Patrol
14 December 1941- 6 January 1942

(A) Prologue

Arrived Manila from Pearl Harbor Monday 10 November 1941 , 1100 hours. Commenced voyage repairs and liberty for crew, followed by training in preparation for forthcoming order.

After attack on Pearl Harbor, T.H., and invasions of Philippines, Guam, and Malaya, by Empire of Japan, War declared by Congress on Monday 8 December 1941 (Tuesday 9 December local). Orders to conduct unrestricted submarine warfare issued 8 December (local) . Preparations for war patrol commenced immediately with provisioning of boat.

Twenty two MK 14 torpedoes, 180 rounds of 3" 50 Caliber Ammunition, and 1200 rounds 20 MM ammunition, loaded. Survived Cavite Air Raid by enemy on 10 December with no damage. Sea Lion SS-195 damaged beyond repair.

All torpedoes and provisions loaded by 1600 13 December 1941.Ready for sea 14 December 1941.

Crew Roster as of 14 December 1941

Officers

LTCDR K.C Hurd, USN. CO
LT. I.T. Ryan, USN. XO/Navigator
LT. jg B.R.P. Digby, USN Dive Officer
Ens. M.L. Lynch, USN. Torpedo Officer/TDC Operator
Ens. D.B. Thompson USN. Engineering Officer

Chief Petty Officers

CTM R.I. Madison, USN. Chief of the Boat
CMMoMM D.R. Saunders, USN.
CTM S.W. Garcia, USN.
CMoMM V.W Ballantine, USN.
CMoMM D.K. Bush, USN.
CMoMM E.K. Street, USN.

(B) Narrative

Sunday December 14, 1941

0400 Departed Cavite Navy Yard, P.I. for First War Patrol.

0405 Course 240 Speed 11 knots to exit Mania Bay.

0705 Exiting Manila bay, Sighted unidentified US Tambor submarine returning. Bearing 083 range 9000 yards. 14-15 N 120-26 E.

0707 Increased speed to 18 knots to clear area.

0920 Submerged to 100 feet. 4 knots. Course 310.

2100 Surfaced. Recharge batteries.

2340 Night orders: Maintain course 000 standard speed en route patrol area off Cape Bojeador, P.I. Seal passed Cape Boliano during the night. Extra vigilance paid due to enemy activity in Lingayen Gulf and Vigan areas.

Monday December 15, 1941

0615 Trim Dive to 90 feet.

0631 Surfaced. Course 010 15.5 knots en route patrol area.

0730 Submerged to 100 feet. Course 010 3 knots.

1800 Surfaced. Recharge batteries

2340 Night Orders: Maintain course 025 speed 15.5 knots. Expected ETA to assigned area 0145.

Tuesday December 16, 1941

0009 Position 19-3 N 120-27 E. Arrived in patrol area earlier than expected.

0437 Submarine spotted bearing 346 7250 yards. Estimated course/speed 11 knots. Position 19-5 N 120-47 E

0439 General Quarters-Torpedo.

0528 Morning twilight. Submerged for attack. Estimated 8000 yards ahead of submarine.

0543 Contact identified as US Tambor Class submarine. Went to 200 feet, ordered course 000 to open range.

0600 Secured General Quarters.

0700 Lost Sound contact.

1830 Surfaced. Recharge Batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Conduct box search pattern at 14 knots in Luzon Straits 150 NM west of Balabac Islands.

Wednesday December 17, 1941

0745 Submerged for patrol.

1215 Sound has distant, fast props. Turned to course290 at 5 knots to investigate.

1233 Sound contact bearing 019, closing, medium speed, estimated range 5.5 NM.

1234 Periscope observation: Visual sighting of possible two enemy destroyers bearing 015 9000 yards.

1239 General Quarters-Torpedo.

1330 Secured General Quarters. Unable to close destroyers as turned to NW at high speed.

1809 Surfaced. Recharged batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Maintain patrol of LuzonSstraits at 14 knots.

Thursday December 18, 1941

0755 Submerged for patrol.

1338 AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 2 Bearing 047 7000 yards, closing. Ordered 200 ft depth.

1830 Surfaced. Recharged batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Maintain patrol at 14 knots.

Friday December 19, 1941

0759 Submerged for patrol.

1830 Surfaced. Recharge batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Patrol at 14 knots.

Saturday December 20, 1941

0600 Trim Dive.

0630 Surfaced for patrol.

1325 Smoke spotted on horizon bearing 355 estimated range 10 NM. Ordered flank speed to close contact.

1332 Contact is ship. Course 260 Est speed 7 knots.

1340 General Quarters.

1417 Submerged for attack.

1514 Fired two MK 14 torpedoes at target.

1515 Torpedo # 1 initially judged as hit, but now believed to have detonated 5-10 feet from target instead of under the keel as aimed. Torpedo #2 impacted amidships as aimed. Target damaged and listing to starboard.

1634 Surfaced to move ahead of target for follow up.

1802 Received message to shift port to Surabaya, Java from Manila due to air raids.

1830 Secured General Quarters.

2100 Unable to reestablish contact with target in dark. Running down various courses.

2120 Result of attack: AKITA MARU 3900 tons damaged.

2126 Looks spotted unknown vessel bearing 339 range estimated 7600 yards. General Quarters.

2127 Vessel is a destroyer.

2133 Lowered sound heads. Sound check reveals multiple sound contacts.

2134 Convoy Sighted. 19-24 N 118 57 E Estimated Speed/Course 183 degrees. 12 knots.

2234 Submerged for attack in front of convoy. 250 ft depth, silent running to work between two escorts

2253 Periscope depth in what appeared to be large convoy of troopships. Possible landing force. Ship at 090 1100 yards. Moved forward for attack on next column.

2255 All tubes ordered ready.

2321 Fired two MK 14 torpedoes from stern tubes #5 and #6.

2325 Both torpedoes missed.

2337 Fired four MK 14 torpedoes, three hits.

2238 MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons sunk at 19-17 N 118-48 E.

Sunday December 21, 1942

0000 Pinging, escort closing.

0002 DC explosion, above.

0020 Lost contact with escort.

0100 Secured General Quarters.

0300 Surfaced. Pursuit course 183 Speed 15.5 knots while recharging batteries.

0530 Turned to course 160. Believe convoy was invasion force heading for Luzon.

0546 Destroyer sighted bearing 000. Convoy is heading 157 9 knots. Appeared bound for Lingayen Gulf.

0912 Visual contact with convoy.

0930 General Quarters-Torpedo

0940 5.5 NM in front of convoy, shell splashes landed 1000 yards off port quarter. Submerged to avoid.

0942 Enemy Destroyer, closing fast 170.

0947 DD identified as Shiratsuyu Class.

0953 Two Subchasers closing as well, fast.

0954 DD pinging.

0958 Fired one MK 14 torpedo "Down the Throat" of DD from 700 yards, ordered 250 ft. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running.

0959 DD overhead. DC splashes.

1000 DC explosions, close. Boat shaken. Damage and injuries (See Damage Section, DC Attack #2) Minor flooding in conning tower.

1003 Conning tower flooding controlled.

1054 Pinging.

1118 Pinging. Escort appears to have steady contact.

1121 DC explosions, close.

1123 Depth 270 ft.

1300 Secured General Quarters. Enemy escorts remain in area covering the convoys withdraw.

1904 Lost contact with escorts.

2137 At periscope depth, discovered neither No.1 nor No.2 periscopes functional, must have been damaged in attack.

2145 Surfaced. Damage control party began work on periscopes. Radio antenna also in need of repair.

2340: Night Orders: Maintain course 340 15.5 knots. Avoid contacts until repairs completed.

Monday December 21, 1941

0301 Repairs completed. Periscopes functional.

0302 Received Flash Traffic Warning of Japanese landings at Lingayen Gulf. Seal ordered to continued patrol of Luzon Straits.

0825 Submerged for patrol.

1555 Aircraft spotted bearing 171 3000 yards. Est altitude 1200 feet. Ordered 200 feet, emergency.

1830 Surfaced. Recharge Batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Maintain patrol in area at 14 knots.

Tuesday December 22, 1941

0800 Submerged.

1830 Surfaced. Battery recharge.

2316 Lookouts spotted enemy vessel bearing 355 degrees 5800 yards. 20-52 N 119-7 E

2317 General Quarters Torpedo. Targets identified as two destroyers course 334 16 knots.

2318 Submerged for attack.

2324 Stern tubes ready.

2326 DD identified as Kamikaze Class.

2327 ATTACK NO. 3 Fired three MK 14 torpedoes.

2329 Torpedo hitting time passed. Enemy searchlight spotted. Enemy alerted. Torpedoes missed. Sound had torpedoes hitting target, believe passed under target.

2330 Pinging.

2331 Escort closing bearing 100. Ordered 250 ft depth. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running.

2333 Pinging.

2335 DD overhead. Splashes

2336 DC explosions.

2337 Second DD pinging along port side.

2338 DC explosions.

2339 Pinging. Escorts seem to have fix on the Seal.

2342 DD overhead. Splashes.

2343 DC explosions. Ordered 270 ft.

2348 Depth: 275 ft.

2349 DD overhead.

2350 Very close depth charge. Boat shaken.

2352 DD passed overhead. DC explosion

2356 Pinging. One DD ovehread.DD splashes. Boat Depth: 280 ft

2357 DC explosion.

2358 DC explosions. Close. Boat shaken.

Wednesday December 23, 1941

0000 Depth:300 ft. Speed 3 knots Course 120.

0003 Pinging.

0004 DD overhead. Splashes

0005 DC explosions

0008 DC explosions.

0012 Pinging.

0014:34 DD overhead.

0014:51 DC explosions.

0017 DC explosion.

0019 DC explosions, close. Boat shaken.

0021 DC explosions, astern.

0025 DD overhead.

0026 DC explosions.

0039 DD's went quiet, no sound contacts. Likely listening. Boat Depth: 347 feet.

0053 One DD audible on sound, moving away.

0133 Sound reported two contacts moving away, fast. Bearing 200.

0230 Secured General Quarters.

0325 Periscope depth. All clear on visual and sound. Secured Silent Running.

9330 Surfaced. Battery Recharge. Night Orders: Patrol area at 14 knots.

0404 Received Flash Traffic warning of invasion force approaching Lamon Bay, Philippine Islands.

0810 Aircraft spotted bearing 213 6 NM closing fast! DIVE ! emergency depth 200 ft ordered. Position:21-3 N 118-51E

0811 Boat passing 44 feet. Two large explosions from aerial depth charges astern. No damage.

1105 Periscope depth. Submerged Patrol.

1458 Sound has many props, heavy and fast bearing 121 long range. Course to 265 towards contacts.

1503 Surfaced to close contacts.

1508 Aircraft Spotted! (Large four engine flying boat) Bearing 323 5.5 NM Dive, 200 feet emergency!

1510 Explosions overhead.

1600 Surfaced. Course350 to intercept sound contacts.

1709 Enemy Task Force spotted. 21-15 N 118-147 E Estimated Course/Speed 005 degrees 17 knots.

1712 Aircraft spotted ! (Twin engine bomber type) 011 9000 yards closing fast ! . DIVE ! Emergency to depth 200 ft.

Bombs dropped by aircraft, landed astern, 50 yards.

1715 Sound reports warship closing, very high speed, bearing 342 long range. Believe aircraft reported Seal's presence.

1716 Second warship contact closing at high speed bearing 014.

1745 lost warship contacts, sound clear. Unable to surface due to aircraft presence.

1836 Surfaced. Recharged batteries.

1844 Almost out of assigned area. Turned to course 145 degrees.

2135 Spotted two patrolling enemy destroyers. 20-57 N 119-5 E Course 170 speed 16 knots. Avoided patrol.

2203 Proceeding to Lamon Bay, P.I. Reports of enemy invasion forces in area.

2340 Night Orders: Continue course 119 speed 15.5 knots to Bashi Channel en route to Lamon Bay, P.I. area.

Thursday December 24, 1941

0856 Increased speed to 18.5 knots while transiting Bashi Channel area.

0935 Ship spotted ! Bearing 260 degrees 8 NM. 2-0N 121-39 E in Bashi Channel. Estimated course/Speed 270 degrees 7 knots.

0936 General Quarters-Torpedo.

0943 Two destroyers spotted! Bearing 350 5 NM closing fast! Possible escort rendezvousing with merchant spotted at 0935/ Turned to avoid.

0948 AK turned to SW course enabling submerged approach. Submerged for attack.

1030 Periscope depth. DD's did not join the AK, likely a patrol not escort. AK is zigging on course 265.

1034 Observation. Target identified as SEIA MARU 7590 tons.

1047 All bow tubes made ready.

1055 Target spotted scope, turned away. Fired MK 14 torpedo from 800 yards.

1056 Torpedo impacted target. Fired second torpedo from 700 yards astern.

1057 Torpedo impact! Large fire burning on target. Target settling in water.

1058 Sound reported target engines ceased.

1059 Observation reveals target has large deck guns forward and aft, appear to be 4 or 5 inch guns.

1107 Target topside fires extinguished. Target dead in water.

1118 Fired one MK 14.

1119 Torpedo impact amidships. Large explosions.

1120 large topside fires and secondary explosions. Ship sinking by stern

1121 SEIA MARU 7590 tons sunk at 19-58 N 121-33 E.

1122 Sound has warships inbound high speed bearing 110! Likely DD's spotted previously responding to SOS from SEIA MARU.

1125 Depth 150 ft. Secured General Quarters. Course 090 3 knots.

1130 Enemy DD's in area of sinking, dropping depth charges.

1627 Sound contact. Warship Bearing 307 Closing, increasing speed.

1634 Two warships now on sound at 305.

1635 Periscope depth . Two destroyers spotted at 8000 yards.

1645 Destroyers closing at very high speed towards Seal. General Quarters. Rigged for Silent Running and Depth Charge. Ordered Depth 250 ft.

1649 Pinging.

1651 DC charges, overhead.

1652 More DC explosions. Damage reported (See Damage Section.) Boat depth. 300 ft

1653 Second DD overhead.

1654 DC explosions, close. Boat shaken.

1656 Depth: 325 ft.

1700 DC explosions. Close. Boat shaken.

1702 DC explosions. Boat shaken

1703 Escort overhead. Splashes.

1704 DC explosions, close.

1712 DC explosions.

1716 DC explosions.

1731 Pattern of DC explosions.

1739 DC explosions, close.

1803 DC explosion, close.

1809 Close DC. Damage (See Damage Section) Heavy Flooding in forward torpedo. Damage Control Party assigned.

1811 Enemy continued DC runs.

1812 Forward torpedo room reports flooding reported under control, but three feet of water in compartment. Repairs continued

1818 Flooding controlled. Leaks completely stopped. Boat is heavy forward, difficult to control depth. Pumping water out.

1845 Forward torpedo reports water pumped out of compartment.

1848 Battery power down to thirty percent.

1900 Escorts pinging.

1097 DC explosion.

1912 DC explosion, close.

2100-2201 Multiple DC attacks by escort. Seal pushed to depth of 390 ft.

2202 Lost contact with enemy vessels, believe they were "sleeping".

2225 Sound reported an enemy vessels moving away, fast.

2317 Periscope depth. All clear. Sound is clear.

2318 Surfaced. Recharged batteries. Secure General Quarters. Battery power was down to fifteen percent.

2350 Maintain course 120 to Lamon Bay at 10 knots. Upon completion of battery recharge, increased speed to 15.5 knots.

Friday December 25 1941

0750 Submerged.

1802 Periscope depth. Dusk. Received Evening Fox Traffic. Hong Kong captured by Japanese, Manila declared open city. Asiatic Fleet operations shift to Surabaya, Java.

1822 Surfaced.

2340 Night Orders: Continued on course 200 at 18.5 knots en route to arrive off Lamon Bay by dawn.

Friday December 26, 1941

0630 Approaching Lamon Bay from the North.

0951 Submerged for reconnoiter of Lamon Bay area.

1149 Sound reports distant fast props bearing 155.

1315 Patrolling destroyer spotted bearing 211 5 NM. Rigged for Silent Running.

1742 two destroyers spotted 120 6000 yards. Identified as Kagero Class and Mutsuki Class. This pair was patrolling Lamon Bay. It is believed the enemy landing force is inside Lopez Bay, which can be reached from Lamon Bay but is too shallow to enter submerged, Both entrances are relatively narrow and guarded by shore defense guns, as well as patrol craft.

1842 Nightfall. Surfaced in Lamon Bay.

2200-2240 Pursued by a patrol craft but able to elude after a prolonged chase.

2256 Exited Lamon Bay.

2340 Night Orders: Continue course for patrol of approaches to Lamon Bay, P.I.

Saturday December 27, 1941

Patrolled East of Lamon Bay

Night Orders: Continue course and speed to arrive off North entrance to Laganoy Gulf, P. I. by dawn to interdict traffic to/from Lamon Bay.

Sunday December 28, 1941

0500 Wind and seas picked up, 6-8 ft waves.

0530 Submerged for patrol. of North entrance of Laganoy Gulf.

0832 Sound reports prop noises bearing 340 long range.

0852 Spotted group of landing craft. General Quarters-Battle Surface Gun Action.

0902 Surfaced.

0903 Commenced firing on lead barge. Barge opened fire with machine guns or auto cannon, no hits on Seal. One solid round on fifth shot hit the landing craft, which caught fire and crew abandoned.

0930 Ceased fire. six Daihatsu Class Landing Craft estimated 9 tons each at 14-03 N 123-53 E.

0935 Secured General Quarters.

1232 Aircraft spotted! Bearing 248 6 NM DIVE! Emergency, 200 ft. 14-38 N 123-65 E

1830 Surfaced. Recharge Batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Maintain course and speed for arrival off San Bernadino Strait by dawn.

Monday December 29, 1941

0317 Sighted enemy destroyer bearing 5000 yards. Avoided this patrol.

0525 Submerged for patrol off Laganoy Gulf.

1110 Patrolling destroyer spotted bearing 292 5 NM.

1835 Surfaced. Recharge Batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Patrol San Bernadino Strait/Laganoy/Albay Gulf areas.

Tuesday December 30, 1941

0248 Convoy Sighted. 12-54 N 124-11 E in San Bernadino Strait. Estimated Course/Speed 003 degrees 9 knots. One large AP, two DD,

0450 Lost contact with convoy in the dark, appears it turned into Albay Gulf.

0530 Submerged for patrol.

1303 Aircraft Spotted! Bearing 229. 200 ft, emergency.

1830 Surfaced. Recharged Batteries. Heavy seas with Partial clouds, light fog , and heavy wind.

2340 Night Orders Continue course 120 speed 15kts 30-50 NM off coast of Samar.

Wednesday December 31, 1941

0348 Ship spotted 358 degrees 8000 yards. Shadowing until dawn for attack.

0415 Vessel Identified as md sized tanker.

0540 General Quarters-Torpedo

0614 Submerged for Attack.

0642 Target identified as tanker AKEBONO MARU 6839 tons.

0653 Fired three MK 14 torpedoes.

0654 Torpedoes one and two hit target, third missed astern. Massive explosion and fireball, believe tanker was loaded with fuel as was southbound.

0656 AKEBONO MARU 6839 tons sunk 12-07 N 126-18 E 58 NM ENE off Samar, P.I.

0708 Depth 200 feet. Secured General Quarters. Commenced torpedo reload with final reserve torpedo. Two torpedoes left in tubes left, tubes 3 and 4.

1836 Surfaced. Recharged Batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Maintain course 155 degrees at 15.5 knots.

Monday January 1, 1942

1505 Aircraft spotted! (IJN twin engine bombers) Bearing 153 9500 yards closing fast! DIVE ! Emergency, 200 feet. 7-18 N 127-15 E 40 NM E of Mindanao.

1506 Bombs hit water about 100 feet from Seal as she passed 52 feet.

1830 Surfaced. Recharged batteries.

2340 Night Orders: Maintain Course192 degrees 15.5 knots.

Tuesday January 2, 1942

0600 Transiting Celebes "chokepoint" south of Mindanao into Celebes Sea en route new base at Surabaya, Java.

0930 Entered Celebes Sea.

1802 Evening Fox reported Manila captured today.

Night Orders: Maintain course 240 at 15.5 knots en route Surabaya.

Wednesday January 3, 1942

1134 Sighted Dutch flagged freighter 2500 tons. Position 01-47 N 120-9 E Course 020 7 knots.

1807 Overcast, Heavy winds, rain, waves and fog set in. Waves 8-10 feet.

2340 Night orders: Maintain course200 speed 15.5 knots.

Thursday January 4, 1942

1900 Storms cleared. Light chop, partial clouds, light fog.

2340 Night orders: Maintain course 220 speed 15.5 knots.

Friday January 5, 1942

Night Orders: Maintain pattern off Java coast until dawn, then set course to enter port.

Saturday January 6, 1942

1000 Docked Surabaya, Java. Terminated patrol.

(C) Torpedo Attacks

Seal conducted a total of six torpedo attacks, firing twenty of twenty two MK 14 torpedoes aboard., sinking three ships, damaging another.

One gun action utilizing the 3" 50 caliber aft deck gun and 20 MM Oerlikon Cannon sunk five barges, one of which was armed and returned fire.

Ships Sunk by Torpedo Attack

1.

Name: MOMOYAMA MARU
Class:AK
Tonnage: 4,037
Date:20 December 1941
Time:2038
Location:19-17 N 118-48 E. in Luzon Straits.
Type of Attack and Sinking/Damage determined by:
Night Periscope-Submerged Attack. Visual observation through periscope of torpedo impact and sinking of vessel.

Data (at firing)

Range:1000 yards
AOB:85 Port
Gyro:350 Left
Track:355 Port
Course:350
Tubes Fired:1,2,3,4
Torp.Depth:10 feet
POA:MOT, MOT, Fore, Aft
POI:MOT
Detonator: Magnetic actuated by contact.
Hit/Miss: Torpedoes 1,2,3 hit, four missed.
Result: Target sunk.

2.

Name: SEIA MARU
Class:AK
Tonnage: 7,590
Date:24 December 1941
Time:1121
Location:19-58 N 121-33 E. in Bashi Channel
Type of Attack and Sinking/Damage determined by:
Day Periscope Submerged Attack. Visual observation of torpedo impacts and sinking of vessel.

Torpedo Data (at firing)
Range:800 yards
AOB:110 Starboard
Gyro:01
Track:02
Course:004
Tubes Fired:1,2,3.
Torp.Depth:10 feet
POA:MOT
POI:MOT
Detonator: Magnetic actuated by contact.
Hit/Miss: Torpedoes 1,2,3 hit.
Result: Target sunk.

3.

Name: AKEBONO MARU
Class:AO
Tonnage: 6,839
Date:31 December 1941
Time: 0656
Location: 12-07 N 126-18 E 58 NM ENE off Samar, P.I.
Type of Attack and Sinking/Damage determined by:
Dawn Periscope Submerged Attack. Visual observation of torpedo impacts and sinking of vessel.

Torpedo Data (at firing)
Range:1000 yards
AOB:88 Port
Gyro:02 L
Track:12
Course:014
Tubes Fired:1,2,3
Torp.Depth:20 feet
POA:MOT, Fore, Aft Stack
POI:MOT, Fore
Detonator: Magnetic actuated by contact.
Hit/Miss: Torpedoes 1,2, hit, 3 missed astern.
Result: Target sunk.

Ships Damaged by Torpedo Attack

1.

Name: AKITA MARU
Class:AK
Tonnage: 3.900
Date:20 December 1941
Time: 1515
Location: 19-15 N 116-48 E in Luzon Straits
Type of Attack and Damage determined by:
Day Submerged Periscope Attack. Observed torpedo impacts and vessel listing to starboard but underway.

Torpedo Data (at firing)

Range:1100 yards
AOB:87 Port
Gyro:01 Left
Track:08
Course:351
Tubes Fired:1,2,
Torp.Depth:10 feet
POA:MOT, MOT
POI:MOT
Detonator: Magnetic actuated by contact.
Hit/Miss: Torpedo #1 detonated prematurely, torpedo #2 impacted target.
Result: Target Damaged.

Remarks on torpedo attacks:

Magnetic influence detonators may need adjusting as several detonated too early. For targets such as Destroyers torpedo depth should be set as shallow as possible to utilize contact exploder as several misses occurred in spite of solid firing solutions.

(D) Gunnery

Seal departed with 150 rounds of 3" 50 Caliber and 1,200 rounds of 20 MM ammunition aboard

One gun attack was made during this patrol.

Date:28 December 1941
Time:0903-0930
Location: 14-03 N 123-53 E off North Entrance to Laganoy Gulf, P.I.

Description of attack:

While patrolling just North of Laganoy Gulf submerged on the morning of 28 December, made sound contact. Upon coming to periscope depth, observed a small convoy of motorized landing craft/barges heading 340 degrees in a single, loose column, likely or a coastal run to Lamon Bay. Seas were choppy but suitable for gunnery.

Closed to 2000 yards submerged and brought the stern about. Observed the lead Daihatsu was armed with what appeared to be machine guns or auto-cannon (20-25 MM) forward and thus designated it as first target. At 0902 blew tanks for a quick "pop" up to the surface, and commenced firing at 0903.

The first round impacted just besides the craft, but as a near miss appeared to damage it. Second round was a direct hit, caused a large explosion, likely detonating the ammunition aboard. A few survivors were seen in the water.

The remaining craft attempted to flew but were overtaken and two more disposed of quickly by the 3 inch gun. The fourth and fifth landing craft were disposed of by the 20 MM cannon, which proved quite effective against these targets.

At 0930 all were sunk, sinking, and ablaze, ceased firing.

Rounds expended:

3 inch:23

20 MM:211

Result:

Sunk six Daihatsu Class Landing Craft Estimated 9 tons each.

(E) Weather

Weather conditions were favorable for majority of the patrol. Most nights were dark with a slight moon. In the waters off the east coast of the Philippine Islands heavy seas and winds were encountered.

(F) Radio

Radio function was excellent, in spite of the antenna being damaged in depth charge attack.

(G) Major Defects and Damage

During the depth charge attack on 24 December 1941, Seal suffered serious damaged from a very close depth charge explosion forward at 1809, while at a depth of 325 feet.
The damage caused flooding forward, which made the boat heavy forward, difficult to control depth and hindering required quiet for the evasion. Loss of control due to heavy, and quick flooding caused the boat at one point reach a depth of 402 feet before control was regained with back emergency power, dive plane manipulation, and slight release of water from tanks.

While leaks were stopped within minutes, the flooding was heavy and took several hours to pump the compartment dry and restore normal control of the boat. This process was not quiet and aided the attackers in continuing to drop close depth charges. While were not at aware until arrived in boat of the hull damage forward, we worked to make sure did not dive deeper than we had due to possible hull weakness caused by the close charge.

The damage control party lead by the Executive Officer and Engineering officer performed in in spectacularr fashion, saving the boat.

Damage suffered in this attack and repair status:

1.Serious hull damage forward (24 percent)-repaired in port.

2.Bulkhead, forward hatch damage.-repaired at sea

3.Serious flooding forward torpedo room-3 1/2 feet water in compartment-pumped out.

4.Torpedo tubes 3, and rendered inoperable-repaired at sea.

5. Forward batteries damaged-repaired at sea.

6. Various water piping and air lines damaged, leaking-repaired.

During the depth charge attack of 21 December, a close charge, perhaps two exploded near the boat and conning tower. Busted valves permitted several inches of water to enter the conning tower, but were quickly stopped by men in the compartment. Later, when at periscope depth, it was discovered both periscopes had been seriously damaged. Inspection upon surfacing found the heads of both No.1 and No.2 were damaged. A damage control team immediately began to repair and had both scopes operational within six hours.

Damage suffered in this attack and repair status:

1. No. 1 Periscope head-repaired at sea.

2. No. 2 Periscope head-repaired at sea.

3. Torpedo Data Computer-repaired at sea.

4. Valves, piping, air lines.-repaired at sea.

5.Flooding in conning tower-pumped out compartment.

6. 20 MM Cannon-repaired at sea.

7. Radio Antenna-repaired at sea.

(H) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasion Tactics

Enemy anti-submarine efforts were intense in the Luzon Strait areas and effective. Seal was bombed multiple times by four engine flying boat patrol aircraft as well as twin engine land based bombers.

ASW patrols consisting of destroyers were encountered numerous times throughout the area.

The attack by one such patrol on 24 December, responding to the sinking of SEIA MARU, proved to be quite competent and effective.

Enemy utilized team work with passive and active sound gear, preferring to make an approach from the stern and drop patterns "along the spine4" of the submarine. When in pairs, one would make a fast run this way, then another would quickly follow and "cross the T" in front of Seal, laying effective patterns.

Submerged evasion of enemy ASW consisted of running silent at 100 RPM or less, always with five degrees or rudder to port or starboard, in order to prevent Seal from being tracked in one direction, this seemed to confusion. When enemy was heard overhead making a run, speed speed bursts of 6-8 knots were used typically for 30-60 seconds. Seal initially operated at test depth of 250 ft for evasion but several times was forced to 270 0r 275 to get under enemy depth charges. Later depths of 350 ft were found necessary and due to flooding, the boat went to 402 feet momentarily.

300-350 feet seems to be an excellent depth to evade enemy depth charges and sound gear.

(I) Mines

No enemy mines were encountered.

(K) Friendly Forces Contacted

1.

USN Tambor Class Submarine
14 December 1941
0705
14-15 N 120-26 E.
Bearing 083
Range 9000 yards.
Course 100 degrees.
Speed 15 kts
Location: 14-15 N 120-26 E. Outside entrance to Manila Bay.
Exchange Rec Signal: No
Remark: Spotted while departing for patrol.

2.

USN Tambor Class Submarine
16 December 1941
0543
19-5 N 120-47 E
Bearing 083
Range 9000 yards.
Course 265 degrees.
Speed: 12 knots
Location:19-5 N 120-47 E in Luzon Straits, West of Babuyan Islands.
Exchange Rec Signal: No
Remark: Believed was enemy submarine. Tracked, submerged, and approached for dawn periscope attack. On observation at 1200 yards, recognized in the morning light as a USN submarine. Immediately broke off attack and went to 200 ft.

3.

Dutch Flagged Freighter 2500 tons
3 January 1942
1134
19-5 N 120-47 E
Bearing 040
Range 5.5 NM
Course 020 degrees.
Speed: 7 knots
Location:01-47 N 120-9 E n Celebes Sea
Exchange Rec Signal: Yes
Remark: None

(L) Aircraft

Enemy aircraft contacts consisted of large four engine flying patrol boats and twin engine land based bombers, no single engine fighters or bombers were encountered.

Multiple aircraft bombed Seal during the patrol but caused no damaged. (See Narrative)

(M) Health, Habitability, and Crew.

Health and Habitability on this patrol were excellent.The crew conducted themselves in an excellent manner during an active, and trying first war patrol.

Total on Board: 62 Officers and men.

Officers:5
Chief Petty Officers:6
Petty Officers:21
Men:30
Qualified in Submarines: 40

Injuries:

Following crew suffered minor injuries in the forward torpedo room during the depth charge attack of 24 December 1941. All were treated at sea and returned to full duty.

TM1 Bell, H.
TM1 Simmons, L.
TM3 Howard, G.T.
TM3 Jenkins, D.T.
S1 Campbell, T.N.
S2 Lynch, G.
SC1 Anderson, V.R.

(N) Navgiational Aids

Due to blackouts, no nagivational aids were sighted in patrol area or the adjoining islands.

(O) Sound Gear and Conditions

Sound gear, both passive and active functioned properly during this patrol, with optimal conditions for most of the patrol with faint contacts often heard nearly ten miles away.

Enemy appeared to enjoy the same conditions as well.

Thermal layers were present in area and detected between 100 and 300 feet.

(P) Miles Steamed-Fuel Used

Miles Gallons
Cavite to Patrol Area 400 3240
In Patrol Area 6500 31209
Patrol Area to Surabaya 2856 21449

(Q) Duration

Days
Manila to Patrol Area 2
In patrol area 17
Area to Surabaya 5
Days Submerged 18
Total 26

Factor in Termination of Patrol: Fuel, distance to new base from area, battle damage, expenditure of torpedoes.

(R) Patrol Routine

A standard patrol routine was established on this patrol consisting with three sections standing four hours watches as follows:

0400-800
0800-1200
1200-1600
1600-2000
2000-0000

When surfaced, the Officer of the Deck (OOD) stood watch on the bridge, along with port, starboard, and aft look outs. In the control room the Chief of the Watch supervised the men assigned to control room watch at diving controls. When dive alarm is sound, Chief of the Watch initiates the dive with the control room watch until the port and starboard lookouts are able to make their way from the bridge to the control room, where they take over the dive planes, and OOD takes over the dive. Sound station in conning tower is manned by the assigned Sonarman of the watch upon the dive alarm being sounded. The Chief of the Watch then mans the "Christmas Tree" once the OOD has taken over the dive. Once a dive is complete and proper trim made, the OOD will take station in the conning tower and may issue diving commands from there, unless otherwise required. The exception to this is the the second section, in which the Executive Officer is assigned as OOD, a second officer, as assistant Officer of the Deck (AOOD) stands watch in conning tower and drops down to take over the dive upon sounding of the dive alarm.

Transit to and from assigned patrol areas was conducted on the surface at standard speed, submerging as required.

Daily routine in patrol area consisted of a dive to 90 feet, shortly after dawn. Submerged patrolling typically consisted of a climb periscope depth everyone half hour at 50-54 feet with No.2 periscope in conning tower extended, although in some areas observations were longer. Constant passive sound sweeps were conducted, which produced contacts and ultimately sinkings. Surfaced patrolling in area became untenable due to enemy aircraft presence.

Surfacing just after dusk, typically between 1830-1845 hours was the routine for this patrol. Battery recharge was conducted then a increase to standard speed to cover a box search pattern through the night was conducted. This wielded several excellent contacts.

Procedure upon contact with unknown surface vessel was to turn away presenting stern , until situation can be assessed. Contacts with enemy patrols were avoided via this procedure. Exception for this procedure if the tell tale smoke plume of a large merchant spotted, then a matching course and speed were ordered, with initiation of plot.

Upon spotting of an aircraft, procedure for OOD was to order a dive to to 200 feet. If no bombs fell, it appeared the boat was not spotted, a return to periscope depth and surfacing within the hour was procedure.

During torpedo attacks, the Commanding Officer, assisted by the Executive Officer conducted the approach and manning of the periscopes. The Dive Officer manned the dive, with Torpedo Officer on the Torpedo Data Computer. Engineering Officer was in the control room in constant contact with the engine rooms. The Chief of the Boat was in the conning tower during a torpedo attack, assigned to the torpedo fire control panel.

This routine proved effective and useful for this patrol. If two more officers could be added, each watch would have an OOD and AOOD, enhancing the capabilities of the boat and crew.

(S) Remarks

The assigned area of Luzon Straits was the sight of initial patrol. Numerous warnings of invasion at Lamon Bay and Eastern P.I. were received. A status report to COMSUB Asitatic prompted orders to reconnoiter Lamon Bay and San Bernadino Strait areas.

The enemy effectively controls the Luzon Straits with surface and air patrols, aside from US submarines.

While did sink three vessels and damage another, torpedo performance did leave something to be desired with four premature detonations (possibly more) and several suspected of running deeper than set. These issues should be address immediately.

Installation of an SD Air Search Radar is a top priority prior to next patrol as well.

Bubblehead1980

10-03-21, 08:17 AM

TMO 2.5 Update BH
100 difficulty, cams on and contacts on (for a change)

USS Seal SS-183 (Salmon Class) .

This was my second patrol in the TMO Update (non testing patrol) plan is to make it through the war in TMO in the Seal. I did so in a Gato finally, going to see how we do in one of the older boats.

Prologue

Returned from first war patrol on 6 January to Surabaya, Java . Serious hull damage (24 percent) suffered from a close depth charge during the severe depth charge attack by two DD in Bashi Channel on 24 December 1941 repaired. Provisioning and all other refit activities completed. Ready for sea 4 February 1942.

(B) Narrative.

Departed Surabaya, Java for patrol on 4 February 1942 at 0930. Exited the north-west channel and headed through the Java Sea, Karimata Strait, and South China sea to assigned Areas A4 and A5 off Manila-Mindoro area. Arrived in patrol area A4 on 9 February at 0600.

The few couple of days followed the routine of diving after dawn and patrolling submerged. Attempted surface patrols failed due to aircraft presence and Seal's lack of ability to procure an SD Air Detection Radar set during refit period in Surabaya.

Surfaced at 1830 on 12 February for battery recharge and patrol. At 2233 lookouts sighted a convoy of three ships and two destroyers bearing 0056 8000 yards at 14-05 N 119-13 E. Estimated Course/Speed 176 degrees 8 knots. Three ships, two DD escorting.

Seal was called to General Quarters-Torpedo and raced ahead for attack. The Convoy changed course to 160 degrees, Seal adjusted and was able to submerged for attack at 2342.

Just after leveling at 80 feet. Sound reported warship closing fast. Soon after, pinging began. Seal was detected and now had no shot, went to 250 ft rigged for silent running and depth charge.

The destroyers were first team, as from 2348-0300 they worked the boat over well with many depth charges. No damage occurred, except for few minor leaks in piping and air lines.

At 0311 Sound lost contact with the destroyers until 0345 when both were heard leaving at high speed. Wary of "sleepers" as Japanese have shown they like to do, Waited until 0500 with precious little night left, to come to periscope depth. At 0505, sweep with scope and sound revealed no presence of enemy. Secured from General Quarters, and surfaced for pursuit course to regain contact.

At 0706 regained visual contact and worked ahead of convoy, which now had two ships and two dd, whereabouts of third vessel unknown. Submerged at 0723 for attack.

At 0743 Fired two Mk 14 torpedoes (Bow Tubes #1 and #2) at lead AK-KANAGA MARU 4923 tons from 1000 yards AOB 88 P. One torpedo missed, second hit amidships.

Just after torpedo impact, spotted a aircraft (MAVIS) about 4000 yards bearing 280 closing fast and in a shallow glide towards Seal. Ordered emergency depth of 200 feet. As passed 131 feet, two large explosions astern, no damage.

The destroyers delivered a repeat performance of their earlier attack, forcing Seal to a depth of 385 feet to get under the numerous depth charges.

A close depth charge explosion at 0827 shook the boat and caused damage to the port prop shaft, aft electric engines and batteries.

Finally around 1230 last depth charge came. Lost contact with destroyers at 1238. At 1500 came to periscope depth, all clear except a smoke puff spotted at 180 distant. Just as was preparing to surface, the MAVIS was spotted at 280 flying low , searching for Seal. Submerged to 200 feet and closed bearing of smoke.

At 1545 came to scope depth to find the KANAGA MARU, dead in the water. Due to aircraft presence, decided to torpedo to finish ship off. instead of using deck gun

Closed to 1500 yards fired torpedo from tube 3. Torpedo prematurely exploded when 10-15 yards from target. Fired torpedo four, which hit target, causing KANAGA MARU 4923 tons to sink at 13-15 N 119-33 E.
Secured from GQ remained submerged at 200 feet until nightfall, surfaced and departed area.

At 1419 hours on Sunday February 15, 1942 , Seal was on the surface patrolling in area A6 in the South China Sea , when lookouts spotted an aircraft (MAVIS) closing fast from bearing 003 at five nautical miles. A dive was ordered, with emergency depth of 200 feet. As Seal passed 134 feet a series of explosions above the boat, aft caused damage in aft torpedo room. All four aft tubes suffered damage, as did rudder transmission Other compartments, including conning tower, and control room suffered piping and air line leaks. All damage was repaired within 24 within hours.

Surfaced at 1850 that evening and sadly, Evening Fox Traffic reported Singapore had fallen to the Japanese.

On Monday February 16th at 1709, sound made contact on a lone merchant. Seal closed for attack, firing two torpedoes at AKITA MARU at 1740 hours. Both torpedoes were observed to track properly but ran below target. Sea state had increased and is possible caused the vessels draft to be higher in the water.Just after observing the miss, a MAVIS flying boat was spotted in the dusk light, Seal went to 200 ft. Avoiding the bombs the fell soon after.

By 2021 Seal was in position for a attack with stern tubes. At 2021:07 fired two MK 14 torpedoes, stern tubes. After firing, torpedo #2 went on erratic run, to port! Circling back at the boat! Emergency Depth 100 ft! Rigged for collision. At 2022 Torpedo #1 impact with target heard while boat was at depth of 91 feet. Sound reported engine noises from target ceased after impact and at 2025, the audible end of run explosion by erratic torpedo was heard.

Seal came to periscope depth to find the target dead in the water at 1900 yards bearing 180. Two more torpedoes were fired, both prematurely detonated ten yards or less from the target. Surfaced the boat into choppy seas for Battle Surface Gun Action to finish off he vessel. The aft 3 inch deck gun commenced firing, the target responded by illuminating Seal with her searchlights and firing machine guns, a few close rounds sprinkled the waters but no hits on Seal. However, Seal scored twenty-one hits out of thirty one rounds fired from the deck gun, leaving the target a flaming wreck, which finally went down. At 2229 , AKITA MARU 3936 tons sunk at position 14-24 N 120 04' E. Secured from General Quarters and set course for Mindoro Strait for patrol in coming days.

On Wednesday February 18, 1942, submerged at dawn in Mindoro Strait. While patrolling submerged, spotted a MAVIS flying boat several times and at 0750 it bombed Seal, as she passed 170 feet. At 0808 sound had a contact and smoke was spotted on the horizon, went to General Quarters Torpedo and closed at Full speed.

Observation at 0818 showed a mid sized merchant identified as BIYO MARU. Plot revealed she would pass further ahead, forcing a longer range shot than was planned. Went to 80 feet and ahead flank to close the range. At scope depth again at 0834 revealed would have to fire at about 4800 yards. Contemplated surfacing to close the range, the MAVIS came into view, forcing Seal to go to 100 feet and quashed that idea. Continued closing at high speed. Finally, at 0848 came to periscope depth and with target at firing point, fired two torpedoes from 4656 yards, both of which tracked properly but prematurely exploded within second of one another when 20-50 yards from target. Target slowed, then sped up and turned to the west showing its stern to the Seal. Unable to surface due to air cover, nor close due to strain on battery power, went to 200 feet and secured from General Quarters.

However, it would not be long before another chance arose as sound made contact at 1003. Seal closed and at periscope depth, had a merchant in sight. Went to General Quarters-Torpedo and closed the target at standard speed (submerged). At 1037, fired three torpedoes from bow tubes at ATSUTASAN MARU 7827 tons at a range of 1100 yards. Torpedo # 1 missed astern, torpedo #2 hit amidships and detonated, damaging the vessel. Torpedo #3 impacted the side, but failed to detonate. The 'dud' torpedo was audible and heard by sound operator. Though damaged, the vessel increased speed and turned to west away from Seal. Surfacing was contemplated, however large guns fore, aft, and on each side were observed, preventing this. Again battery capacity prevented submerged pursuit and air cover prevented surfacing to end around. Lost contact with the merchant at 1100, secured General Quarters. At 1104 sound reported warship contacts closing fast. These were discovered to be a destroyer and a patrol craft, which began sweeping the area of the attack, joined by the MAVIS at 1121.Seal went to 200 ft , silent running, and turned away from the scene.

On Thursday February 19 was a normal day of submerged patrol in southern reaches of Mindoro Strait. with no contacts Surfaced and headed for main section of patrol area. On the evening Fox, the news of the bombing of Darwin in the morning was received. The next few days were uneventful with normal patrol routine and no contacts, aside from daily spotting of MAVIS, EMILY, PETE patrol aircraft, and BETTY as well. On 25 February received word that COMSUBASIATIC was shifting operations to Perth-Fremantle Australia. Foul weather set in that evening with blinding winds and rain, heavy seas, overcast, and fog. Weather did not improve until the following morning.

At 1150 on February 2 smoke plumes were sighted bearing 087. Seal went to General Quarters-Torpedo and closed for attack, submerging at 1152 hours. At 1255 submerged for attack and came to periscope depth at 1321. Observed RYUNN MARU 6538 tons and fired three remaining bow torpedoes at 1331 in heavy seas. All torpedoes tracked properly, but Torpedoes 1 and 3 missed as wakes passed under the target. Torpedo # 2 prematurely detonated 10-15 feet from target. Explosion that close may have damaged the target. With just one torpedo remaining in stern tube #8, turned to bring the tube to bear. A EMILY flying boat was observed at 1341, forcing Seal t 150 feet. No bombs fell. At 1400 Seal was in position and the target was on ideal course. Fired tube eight, the last torpedo which impacted the side of the target, but was another "dud". Air cover and heavy seas prevented immediate followed up with deck gun attack. Surfaced after dark and searched until 0700 following morning trying to reestablish contact, but was unable. With all torpedoes expended, set course for Surbaya via Mindoro Strait, Sulu Sea, Sibutu Pass, Celebes Sea, Makassar Strait to Java Sea at standard speed as had enough fuel to stop and fuel at Surabaya.

As Seal sailed the Celebes Sea word of the Japanese landings on Java was received and could not stop there for fuel. Calculations were done and showed at 14 knots could make Fremantle with small amount of fuel to spare. Course was set for Fremantle via Makassar Strait, Flores Sea, and Lombok Strait.

On Tuesday March 3, 1942 at 0800, in Flores Sea, Seal submerged at 6-58 S116-54 E for the approach to Lombok Strait due to heavy enemy air activity in area. At 0810 at depth of 90 feet, sound sweep revealed the sound of a submerged submarine bearing 090. Seal went to 200 feet, silent running. It is possible this submarine was making an approach on Seal at the time she submerged.

Surfaced at 1900 hundred hours and increased speed to full, entering North end of Lombok Strait at 2204 hours. Due to the moonless night, chose to make the passage on the surface.. Slowed to standard speed to avoid larger wake. At 2326 near center of Lombok Strait, observed two Japanese destroyers, believed to be Fubuki Class, patrolling the strait, at bearing 011 6000 yards. Took immediate action, presenting stern towards contact and and went to General Quarters. However, they did not spot Seal in the dark night. After clearing the contacts, Seal continued on and exited the strait at 0025 hours on 4 March and set course for Fremantle at 14 knots.

Friday March 6, 1942, while cruising on the surface at dusk en route Fremantle off coast of Australia, as Australia PBY Catalina was spotted bearing 267 at 8000 yards. The Catalinas range was steady, it then made an tur and aggressive high speed dive towards Seal. A dive was ordered, emergency depth 200 feet. As Seal passed 111 feet, multiple large explosions went off, mostly above. However, one or two charges were at Seals depth or below and boat was severely shaken. Piping and air lines began to leak profusely. There was minor flooding in the control room, conning tower, and forward torpedo room. No 2. (Attack) periscope was wrecked Trim and Hydraulic pumps also damaged. Inspection upon return to port indicated hull damage was well. (My friend fire mod, incorporated into TMO Update)

On Saturday March 7, 1942, Seal arrived at Fremantle, Australia and docked at 1031 hours, terminating the Second War Patrol.

Ships sunk on this patrol:

Class Name Ton(s) Caused

AK KANAGA MARU 4923 Torpedo

AK AKITA MARU 3936 Torpedo/Gunfire

Ships damaged on this patrol:

Class Name Ton(s) Cause:

AK ATSUTASAN MARU 7827 Torpedo

AK RYUNN MARU 6538 Torpedo

(C) Remarks

A challenging patrol given the air cover and lack of air search radar, with intense depth charge attacks from escorts. Running around without an SD radar can be quite a challenge but adds a certain element things. However, I should be able to get one next refit as it was not available after first patrol (part of the TMO upgrade).

Torpedo malfunctions certainly took their toll with premature explosions, duds, erratic(circular) runs, and depth control issues. Can only imagine how terrible it to try and fight with your primary weapon being defective.

Bubblehead1980

10-04-21, 01:43 AM

TMO 2.5 Update BH
100 difficulty with cams/contacts on for this patrol.

USS Seal SS-183
War Patrol Report
Third War Patrol
18 March- April 1942
Areas G6, M!-II in Banda and Ceram Seas.

Prologue

Returned from second war patrol on 7 March and had relatively short refit period. Ready for sea 18 March.

Narrative

Departed Fremantle 0730 18 March for patrol area. Set course along western coast of Australia to to Savu Sea, Straits of Timor to Banda Sea. Entered patrol area in Banda Sea just after midnight on 24 March and submerged for patrol that morning at 0800.

At 0820 hours, sound reported distant, fast, heavy props bearing 192 degrees. Turned Seal towards contacts at standard speed (submerged) and began closing, slowing with periscope observations every 10-15 minutes. Due to contacts speed, decided to surface and close, to avoid draining batteries. At 0854 spotted smoke of merchants, then tall masts of warships Seal had located a task force at 6-19 S 125-30 E Course 002 degrees Speed 13 knots. A contact report was sent and began racing ahead at flank speed maintaining distance of 10 NM tracking visually via smoke plumes.

Submerged at 0915 for attack. Observation revealed 10 smaller troopships, similar to TYOHEI MARU class, with one CA (Takao Class) and two CL (unknown class, possibly Naka) pl screen of at least 8 DD. Planned to fire on CA from 1400 yards. When at 2700 yards a DD moving at very high rate of speed was about to overrun Seal, ordered silent running, rig for depth charge and went to 150 feet, continuing to close as it was unlikely DD was detect Seal at such as high speed. After the DD passed over, came back to scope depth, readied all bow tubes but just then pinging(at time did not know a PETE floatplane was in area, but when went to external view for screenshots moments later, a PETE was flying overhead. i suppose the PETE spotted sub at periscope depth, and alerted the warships below. ) began and target made a hard evasion turn to port, ruining the set up. Desiring not to waste torpedoes, withheld fire, rigged for silent running and depth charge, ordered 250 feet.

A brief, but intense depth charging followed with a few close charges. Seal was forced to 350 feet to evade. After an hour most of the DD's departed area sans two which stayed behind dropping charges, pinging and hunting. Secured General quarters and was not able to surface until dusk. A pursuit through the night did not regain contact with the task force. Submerged for patrol the next day with no contacts. Surfaced at dusk.

At 0156 hours on 26 March, spotted enemy destroyer bearing 357 degrees 7500 yards. Numerous other DD and then a CA, came into view in the night sky, called General Quarters-Torpedo, moved ahead and submerged for attack. 3000 yards off track of target. As began to close, could make out the silhouette of a large, flat deck and island structure of a carrier in the night sky! Immediately began a plot and showed Course 064 Speed 11 knots. Sent contact report of Task Force sighted at 3-07 N 125-30 E in Ceram Sea, Course 064 Speed 11 knots .Went to depth of 100 feet and closed at high speed for 7 minutes, back at scope depth had penetrated the screen and would fire at 1000 yards from the CV. All tubes were readied forward. Upon next observation, noticed the water was lapping the scope as the seas had suddenly grown choppy, then heavy. Also noticed a DD in the screen moved forward and would have to fire early to avoid the torpedoes being intercept by him.

At 0245 fired four MK 14 torpedoes at range of 2000 yards from all four bow tubes . Two were fired at middle of target (MOT) while a 2 degree spread forward and aft of center bearing on the TDC spread dial was used. Torpedoes were set for 18 feet. Did not attempt keel shot in heavy seas. Raised scope at 0246 anticipating torpedo imapact when boom....torpedo one prematurely detonated, perhaps 15-20 feet from the carrier...torpedo two and three folllowed. Alerted, the carrier sped up and made hard turn to port, torpedo 4 just missed the stern, running through the wake. While possible the close proximity of torpedoes when detonated damaged the CV, they were not hits. Pinging began just after last torpedo missed, and Seal wen to 250 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge. No depth charges ever fell on Seal, just few off in distance. The rough seas ruined sound conditions and shielded the boat. Secured from General Quarters and surfaced at 0500, attempting to regain contact with the CV.

At 0658 that morning, a D3A "Val" dive bomber, presumably from the CV appearing at bearing 340 closing fast. Seal submerged and felt explosions of depth charges as she passed 110 feet, no damage. Further attempts to surface were thwarted through the day by carrier based aircraft, including a pair of Zeros which suddenly appeared and strafed Seal before she would submerge. QM2 S.L. Russell was standing aft lookout when wounded by the gunfire from the Zeros at 1131, but survived.

At 1230 Sound made contact at bearing 030 and at periscope depth, smoke was spotted. General Quarters-Torpedo was called. Soon identified a DD leading two AK. Closed for attack. The lead AK was KANGA MARU and the second in column was the large AK KOBYASHI MARU 9980 tons. DD identified as Yagumo Class. Closed to 1000 yards off track and at 1311 fired three MK 18 torpedoes. First torpedo was observed running below the target, second impacted amidships and set off a massive explosion, toppled masts and setting off repeated secondary explosions. Third torpedo hit but was a "dud". Believe the KOBAYSHI MARU was carrying ammunition and other volatile cargo. Time: 1317 KOBAYASHI MARU sunk 9980 tons sunk at 3-07 S 125-30 E.

The DD closed and turned into him for a "down the throat shot" firing at 580 yards with 0 AOB. Ordered emergency depth of 250 feet after firing. Heard a torpedo explosion but was not a hit as DD kept coming. Torpedo prematurely detonated. DD passed overhead and let a pattern of DC go, which exploded above as Seal passed 120 feet. The DD made consistent contact and attacks for two hours, eventually losing contact with Seal, then going quiet to listen for about 45 minutes, before leaving area at high speed to rejoin its other charge. Surfaced to pursue but aircraft appeared and kept Seal submerged remainder of the day. Surfaced that evening and closed Staring Bay, Celebes. (I did this in hopes of catching Nagumo's force departing for Operation C, the Indian Ocean raid, which was added by my update mod) but while did make sonar contact at distance, was never able to close to visual range.

Following week passed without contact, just daily routine of submerged patrol and nightly surfacing. until 5 April off Ambon, detecting a tanker with heading for the strait between Ambon/Buru Island. at dawn. Submerged and attacked, firing two MK 14 torpedoes at HARUNA MARU, one impacted but was a dud, the other missed due to targets evasive movements. Fired two more torpedoes, both of which were skillfully dodged by the plucky little tanker. As was bringing stern tubes to bear, sound reported warships closing fast. Two patrol boats from Buru were closing in and just as fired stern tubes, the tanker made a hard turn to the east, ruining the shot and all torpedoes missed. . With patrol boats now at 4500 yards, ordered silent running, rig for depth charge and went to 250 feet. Initially the patrol boats had contact and put a few close depth charges on Seal, but after went to 325 feet seemed to lose contact. Seal secured GQ and remained submerged rest of the day.

Following days and weeks Seal found no contacts and endured heavy seas and storms finally clearing on the 14th of April. On 15 April at 0914, while on submerged patrol, 5-30 S 130-0 E in the Banda Sea, a Red Cross Hospital ship was spotted on course 120 degrees 11 knots.

On 18 April at 1442 a ship spotted! Bearing 069 6 NM. 2-36 S 130-22 E in Ceram Sea. General Quarters-Torpedo was called. After pulling ahead for attack , identified target as a large AK of KOBYASHI MARU class. At 1544 fired three MK 14 torpedoes at target. In the heavy seas, all three ran under target, in spite of torpedo depth being set at 10 feet, the minimal in such waves. Fired fourth torpedo, which impacted target, but failed to detonate.

At 1641 with final torpedo loaded into tube 3, fired on target from 700 yards. Torpedo detonated just a few yards from target. A gun action was considered, however the heavy seas and fact the vessel was armed with 4 inch guns forward and aft made a battle surface not favorable for Seal. Secured and went to 200 feet. Surfaced at 1930 hours, set course for Fremantle via Timor Sea. Arrived Fremantle on 26 April at 1700. Terminated patrol.

Ships Sunk:

Name: KOBAYASHI MARU
Class: AK
Tons:9980
Date: 26 March 1942
Time: 1317
Location:3-07 S 125-30 E.
Cause: Torpedo- MK 14- hit amidships.

Remarks:

Tough patrol with a lot of disappointment due to torpedo failures. The miss on the carrier was dejecting, to say the least. Obviously, we know the torpedoes are prone to failure in the mod, but sometimes they do work and was hoping it would be one of those times. Odds are will not encounter another ship of such value in this career (way I designed things), quite a dejecting moment in the sim.

Depth charge attacks were not as intense nor persistent as previous two patrols.

Bubblehead1980

10-06-21, 02:14 AM

TMO 2.5 Update
100 difficulty, cams off, contacts off.

War Patrol Report
USS Seal SS-183
Fourth War Patrol
26 May -26 June 1943
Area B6-South China Sea off Indochina

Departed for patrol on 26 June at 0730 hours and set course for patrol area via Lombok Strait, Makassar Strait, Sulu Sea, Balabac Strait to South China Sea. On

On the evening of 29 May while transiting Lombok Strait on the surface, spotted two enemy destroyers patrolling the center of the strait, evaded at high speed. Exited strait at 2331 and proceeded.

On 5 June at 0700 after exiting Balabac Strait, was forced to dive for an SD radar contact closing at 7 miles.

At 0415 on 6 June 1942, while passing through Area D6 in South China Sea en route to assigned area, lookouts spotted a vessel bearing 330 6000 yards. Immediately turned to shadow until dawn and went to General Quarters-Torpedo. The following action would be one of the most challenging vs an escorted merchant in memory.

At 0526 , submerged for dawn periscope attack. Target identified as KIGAN MARU 7390 tons. Target was on a course of 165 degrees at 9 knots. All stern tubes were readied and fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 5,6, and 7 at 0553. Range 1000 yards, AOB 85 P , 1.5 degree spread on TDC knob. At 0553:35 torpedo (tube 5) prematurely detonated about 20 yards from target. This appeared to alert the target as it slowed and began to turned towards the Seal, caused the other two torpedoes to just barely miss ahead and aster of target respectively. Just after missing ahead, torpedo(tube 7) prematurely detonated off the starboard bow of target. Final torpedo reached its maximum range and end of run explosions was heard. KIGAN MARU increased speed and turned away preventing an immediate follow up attack. Note: Target was observed to have 4 inch guns for and aft.

At 0555 Surfaced, secured from General Quarters and raced at 10 NM off starboard side of target, tracking by its smoke, visible on horizon. All tubes reloaded. Ahead of target, submerged at 0808 for second attack. Called General Quarters Torpedo once submerged at 0815. At 0906 Seal was ahead of target, target changed course preventing a bow shot, turned off track for another stern shot. and at 0933 fired Tubes 5 and 6 at 1200 yards, as targets broadside exposed during its zig. First torpedo prematurely detonated and second passed right under the target. . The ship turned toward the Seal's periscope and fired forward deck gun and machine guns at scope. Ordered depth of 90 feet, soon the KIGAN MARU's props noises were audible through hull as it passed above.

Secured General Quarters, reloaded tubes and waited for enemy to clear area before surfacing for another end around. At 1403 surfaced into overcast skies, thunder, moderates winds, light but choppy seas and a light fog. Raced along last known course of KIGAN MARU at flank speed and made contact at 1419, spotting whips of smoke on horizon , in spite of the fog.

Submerged the boat in preparation for attack, but contact was not arriving as expecting. Target had changed course. Surfaced and began chasing to get ahead ad at 1442 spotted the KIGAN MARU in the fog at 7200 yards. KIGAN MARU spotted Seal, as opened fire with both deck guns, shells landing in the distance off Drum's stern and port side. Kigan Maru increased speed to 10 knots in opposite direction.

At 1531 SD radar had a contact at 9 NM closing fast. Seal submerged to 150 feet. Surfacing again at 1550, closed target s estimated location at high speed. SD contact was made but range steady, did not dive. The low visibility helped shield Seal from being spotted by the aircraft.

Submerged the boat at 1633 for attack. At 1637 all tubes were readied forward and at 1558 fired Tubes 1,2 at target from 1000 yards, both prematurely detonated shortly after arming. Fired tubes 3,4 as still have favorable set up. Torpedo 3 prematurely detonated, torpedo 4 impacted just of the stack, causing a large explosion. Engine noises on sound ceased. Enemy spotted Seal's scopes and began firing, dropped scope to move into position to finish vessel off with stern tubes. During the turn, passed 300 yards along side the enemy vessel and raised scope, which came under fire from deck guns and machine guns, dropped scope.

At 1721 fired Tube 6 from 900 yards. Torpedo impacted, setting off a large explosion and fire. Target began to sink, water lapping over the decks. At 1737, KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk at 8-54 N 113-36 E in South China Sea (Area D5) . Surfaced and continued on to patrol area after an action which lasted from contact to completion, 15 1/2 hours.

The ship most of have been on of the merchants set to "elite" , as it was not the relatively easy prey lone merchants usually are with the radical course and speed changes and sharp eyed look outs.

Some screen shots from the battle. I had the external cam off so options were limited...

https://i.postimg.cc/xd0qkLzW/Kigan1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/76h69DX9/Kigan2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/gj609DC6/Kigan3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/R0Xhwq1q/Kigan4.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/B6zvwyV0/Kigan6.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/9z5Qc92g/Torpedo-Firing-Panel.png (https://postimages.org/) Pressing the firing plunger. to finish off the the KIGAN MARU

After sinking the KIGAN MARU, proceeded to patrol area arriving the next evening. With SD radar now equipped and in an open ocean patrol area, opted to patrol surfaced instead of submerging in daylight to increase mobility and chances of sighting. A trim dive was made twice each day and thorough sound sweeps made throughout the day.

At 2100 on 14 June lookouts spotted an enemy destroyer. Went to General Quarters-Torpedo. Soon other ships spotted, had a convoy on course directly to Cam Rahm Bay. Convoy was large, with nine AP (troopships) and three escorts...two destroyers and one torpedo boat, possibly Otori class.

Submerged at 2203 and closed target. Went deep at 2221 to avoid destroyer, which passed overhead at high speed, Seal not detected. When back at periscope depth, was 300 yards off starboard side of the outer column! Convoy track had shifted slightly, ordered back 1/3 to open range for firing. A quick plot showed convoy speed of 13 knots.

At 2241 fired two MK 14 torpedoes (Tubes 1,2,3) at a KITRUIN MARU troopship from 1800 yards and two at a SAKITO MARU troopship at 2300 yards. Torpedo 4 prematurely detonated shortly after arming. Torpedo 1 missed astern of KITRUIN MARU, torpedo 2 hit, but was a dud. Torpedo 4 missed SAKITO MARU as the now alerted convoy slowed, causing torpedo to miss forward.

Escorts soon rushed in and depth charged Seal for the next 6 hours. Several charges came close, causing leaks in piping and air lines, as well as damage to forward batteries. All damage repaired. Surfacing after dawn, recharged batteries then submerged to 200 ft for the day for torpedo reload and crew rest.

Next couple of days saw increased air activity off Cam Rahn Bay, Seal had stirred the hornets nest so to speak and was forced to dive repeatedly. One contact on 15 June was only detected at 5.5 NM and spotted Seal as she submerged. The twin engine bombers (BETTY) put a series of charges along side Seal as she passed 84 feet, causing minor damage with leaks in piping and air lines, minor flooding in control room. All repaired.

During the morning trim dive on 16 June at 0600, sound detected distant prop noises bearing 335 long range. Surfaced into an overcast sky, with a medium fog and light chop to the seas. Obviously this made visual tracking difficult. Closed the bearing at high speed. At 0701, a whisp of smoke was spotted on horizon and General Quarters-Torpedo was called. At 0709 target spotted seal (somehow) and opened fire with deck guns, shells splashes around sea. Turned away, less they get a lucky shot and tracked ahead, submerging for attack at 0747, closing on sound bearing as had no visual contact at the time due to fog.

0752 via periscope, spotted ship emerging from the fog at range of 3870 yards on course 063 zigging at 7 knots. All bow tubes were readied for firing.At 0813 , as target zig presented favorable firing angle, fired bow tubes 1,2,3 from 1000 yards. All three torpedoes wakes were observed running under target, torpedoes set to depth of 10 feet ran deeper than set, it is assumed. Fired a fourth torpedo at 0816, which missed or ran deep.

Brought stern about, readied stern torpedo tubes and fired spread of four after torpedoes set to minimum depth setting. One prematurely detonated just yards from target, second impacted but failed to detonate (dud), two others missed or ran deep. Pulled away for torpedo reload as target disappeared in to the fog.

0956 Surfaced into clear weather as fog had lifted and began pursuit course.

1928 Finally regained contact with merchant and closed, which was difficult as night set in but by 2015 was submerged and had target in sight. Appeared to be the same DAKAR MARU freighter pursued earlier. At 2019 fired final two torpedoes from bow tubes 2 and 3. Both torpedoes missed, likely due to running deep as tracked properly. All torpedoes expended , waited for target to clear and pursued for a night gunnery action but was unable to regain contact. All torpedoes expended, set course for Fremantle.

At 0618 on 18 June as Seal approached Balabac Strait, spotted smoke on the horizon in the dawn light. One AK with one DD escorting exiting the strait course 302 degrees at 8 knots. Position 7-4 N 116-25 E. Contact report sent. Seal turned away from the ships. Suddenly, the destroyer turned towards Seal at high speed and flashes were seen from her forward guns. Splashes landed well ahead of Seal. Destroyer, an older type believed to be Wakatake Class closed and fired several times but could not catch up to Seals 20 knots and never came closer than 6000 yards. Eventually turning back, but she had protected her charge, ran us off. Continued on to Balabac strait and transited without incident.

On 21 June Seal was in Makassar Strait and made its morning trim dive at 0600. At 0605 sound detected distant props. Surfaced and closed to investigate contact. Smoke was spotted on Horizon at 0640. Pulled ahead to close and review target, to decide if gun action possible. Target made repeated course and speed changes making this difficult. Finally at 1026 submerged to close and inspect target, which revealed no large guns mounted, only anti aircraft type auto cannons and machines guns. Called for General Quarters-Battle Surface-Gun Action at 1045 and turned off target track to present Seal's stern and aft mounted deck gun to target. Surfaced at 3000 yards from target an commencing firing at 1050.

The 3 inch gun and 20 MM gun scored numerous hits on the enemy vessel as it turned away and returned fire with its MG and AC.

At 1056, lucky rounds hit the deck gun crew (see casualties below). Immediately a replacement crew took over and Seal pursued at back emergency speed in a stern chased, scoring repeated hits on the target, which caught fire and seemed to lose way. The 3 inch gun continued to hammer the target until the entire ship was ablaze and appeared to be sinking. Ceased fire at 1106. At 1111, ZINBU MARU 5186 tons sunk by gunfire.

The following casualties were a result of machine gun fire from the enemy vessel. All were members of the primary 3 inch gun crew.

Killed in Action:

CTM Rob I. Madison (Chief of the Boat)

Wounded in Action

Ens. Marion L. Lynch - Minor wound-recovered

TM1 Herbert Bell-Seriously wounded, recovered.

TM1 Leigh Simmons-Seriously wounded, recovered.

TM3 Dudley T. Jenkins Seriously wounded-recovered

TM3 Theodore N. Campbell-Minor wound.-recovered.

All KIA WIA received Purple Heart upon return to Fremantle.

Ships Sunk on this patrol:

Name Class Tons Cause
KIGAN MARU AK 7390 Torpedo

ZINBU MARU AK 5186 Gunfire-3 inch and 20 MM

Remarks:

Difficult patrol, relatively short in duration of thirty days due to quick expenditure of torpedoes, with missed opportunities due to repeated torpedo failures. First patrol with SD radar. SD performance was overall satisfactory, although its failure to detect low flying BETTY did lead to Seal being damaged.

Casualties suffered in the gun action are regrettable, future gun attacks will be carried out at longer distances. A larger, more powerful deck is desired as 3 inch appears to be underpowered.

Jimbuna

10-06-21, 11:42 AM

USS Silversides, 3 Jan 43 to 28 Feb 43. Third War Patrol.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/153GX6VsNM8HdHRkHgYHXJL-Q6CF69SEu/view?usp=sharing

Got some pics too, cant upload them. Any tips?

https://postimages.org/

Revus

10-06-21, 12:20 PM

Bubblehead1980

10-06-21, 01:27 PM

U.S.S. SILVERSIDES, War patrol 3, 3 Jan 1943 to 28 Feb 1943

https://drive.google.com/file/d/19_SWXjQdRS9I4JRD9ba_8vnA3gUSW6Zf/view?usp=sharing

Pics:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1VzqNr_ycTbl0i1885EyxETgBmKSjbDRZ?usp=sharing

Great job on the report, I enjoyed it. Nice how formatted it like the actual reports.

Torpedo defects are working as designed lol . My last patrol , two out of 22 torpedoes (in a Salmon class in 1942) performed properly, sinking one ship by torpedo. Had eight premature detonation...several so close the explosion actually caused damage lol talking feet away from targets , four duds, and rest were suspected deep runners, even when minimum depth set ran deep . Keep tonnage down to typical for a summer 1942 patrol. Depth control issue gets better after December 42

Revus

10-06-21, 06:45 PM

Great job on the report, I enjoyed it. Nice how formatted it like the actual reports.

Torpedo defects are working as designed lol . My last patrol , two out of 22 torpedoes (in a Salmon class in 1942) performed properly, sinking one ship by torpedo. Had eight premature detonation...several so close the explosion actually caused damage lol talking feet away from targets , four duds, and rest were suspected deep runners, even when minimum depth set ran deep . Keep tonnage down to typical for a summer 1942 patrol. Depth control issue gets better after December 42

Appreciate it. I think writing the report makes a patrol take nearly twice as long, but I feel it adds to the immersion quite a bit Originally started doing it to keep track of what I was doing (more importantly what I was doing wrong) and it ended up like this.

2/22?! Ooof. I've had those patrols. Those early war times are particularly tough. Even had a circle runner a while back (back before I knew what they were). Gave me quite the shock, leaving me staring at my screen slackjawed, looking for something to throw at it.

Luckily no premature runs this patrol. We'll see what happens this go 'round. Transferred commands to Brisbane and was given a mission in the north Yellow Sea to take pictures of a CV in port. Might just "get lost" on the way there.

Bubblehead1980

10-06-21, 09:50 PM

Appreciate it. I think writing the report makes a patrol take nearly twice as long, but I feel it adds to the immersion quite a bit Originally started doing it to keep track of what I was doing (more importantly what I was doing wrong) and it ended up like this.

2/22?! Ooof. I've had those patrols. Those early war times are particularly tough. Even had a circle runner a while back (back before I knew what they were). Gave me quite the shock, leaving me staring at my screen slackjawed, looking for something to throw at it.

Luckily no premature runs this patrol. We'll see what happens this go 'round. Transferred commands to Brisbane and was given a mission in the north Yellow Sea to take pictures of a CV in port. Might just "get lost" on the way there.

I agree, while it its time consuming to record the data needed and to write the report, it does add to immersion and interesting to have hindsight, examine the patrol after back in port.

Yes, 2/22 worked lol. Now, that is an exceptional number of failures lol but it does happen. This is with a third version of torpedo mod(will be in upcoming patch for my mod). Changed the depth control issue up a bit because found in 1942 prior to the date of testing and correction, torpedoes were not running deep enough to cause misses in many cases. Duds remains same and premature rate was actually reduced slightly. Goal is to provide a level of frustration to mirror that of real life skippers and crews and keep tonnage scores to reasonable levels for that time period, plus allow someone running a career from 1941-1945 seen a real change once torpedo issues are fixed. I am on my fifth patrol, started in December 1941 out of Manila and first patrol managed to sink three, second patrol was two, third patrol was one, and fourth sunk one by torpedo and one gun gunfire. Missed out of probably 10-12 enemy ships would have sunk if torpedoes worked properly, including an aircraft carrier (see third patrol report for Seal SS-183 below), yes a carrier lol, a rare find in this mod now, by design.

Yes, unfortunately game does give silly orders sometimes, something I am working on. If you would like, can give you an easy way to change your orders before patrol, so you don't risk losing renown not going all way to yellow sea from brisbane lol.

I am working on rewriting the patrol orders and making it where player can transfer from say Pearl Harbor to Brisbane, but make a war patrol en route, start out at Pearl and end in Brisbane. This is how it was originally(and done in real life usually) until it was changed in one of the updates(I dislike instant transfer) and never been able to get it back. I figured out how to do with an easy file edit and activation of a mod prior to patrol, so will be included.

lol I remember first time I had a circle run, and was not aware the torpedoes did that in reality at time, I had a similar reaction. Interesting you bring it up, on my current patrol, just had a close call with a circle runner minutes ago.

En route to patrol area in South China Sea (Areas B9, B2) in August 1942, crossing Balabac during during daylight(submerged) sound made contact. Soon had smoke plumes in periscope. Went to 100 feet for high speed run to close and was shielded by the heavy seas. Get in for attack, have 8 troopships escorted by an auxiliary cruise(Aikoku Maru Class). Fired four MK 14's from 1300 yards at the aux cruiser. Number one went erratic to port, and circled back. Ordered 100 feet depth , was diving as last torpedo left tubes (love the TDC and PK, how can accurately fire). I left external cam on for this one since testing torpedo mod, the longer sinking times mod and couple other improvements, so went outside and the torpedo was coming right for sub and was running deeper enough would probably hit us. I ordered maintain current depth at 55 feet so boat would level and stern no protruding for torpedo to hit. I was braced for impact, expected it was over and torpedo prematurely detonated very close and prob 15-20 feet above lol Shook boat, caused some minor damage. Crazy. I'll have some screenshots after patrol is finished, do not like to tab out to windows when sim is running, always makes it act strange.

Circle runner story you may or may not be aware of....USS Pollack SS-180 (Porpoise Class) conducted a night surface attack in 1943 off Japan in mid 1943 or so and fired four torpedoes and suddenly an explosion rocked the sub, knocked out power, etc went dead in water. A torpedo had circled back, run beneath them and detonated(!) fortunately, it apparently ran deep so they did not get the full brunt of the explosions impluse, or they would have been destroyed. Problem was, the convoys escorts were alerted, spotted them and closing in while they were dead in water, working to get the ship back on line. They managed to get her fired up just in time and ended up getting away. I forget if they submerged or got away on surfaced. This was in the book "The Luck of the Draw" was Captain Ken Ruiz(he was a young officer on board the old boat, survived Battle of Savo Island on a cruiser,(Vincennes) volunteered for sub duty after ordeal.

Look forward to the next report, boats out of Brisbane have chance for a lot of action in 1943...think Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes. Check out area of 0-0 N 138-40 E , between, slight (above) Admirality Island and New Hanover:Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

10-07-21, 11:36 AM

TMO 2.5 Update
100 difficulty, cams on, contacts off.

Prologue

Returned from Fourth War Patrol to Fremantle, Australia on 26 June 1942. Conducted normal refit and repairs. No 2(Attack) Periscope repaired, struck by machine gun fire during patrol.

Due to the untimely death of Chief of the Boat, CTM R. I. Madison (KIA during gun action ), CTM Dudley R. Saunders assumed position as Chief of the Boat. CQM Henry P. Hammond and CTM Titus Lee reported aboard 11 July. Twenty-two MK 14 torpedoes loaded and boat provisioned for patrol between 24 July and 28 July. Ready for sea 28 July.

Narrative

Departed Fremantle at 0745 on2 8 July for South China Sea (Areas B9) off Hainan Island, China. On 30 July stopped overnight at Exmouth Gulf for fuel, remained due to storms and proximity of minefield in zero visibility. Departed Exmouth Gulf at 0800 31 July upon clearing of the foul weather and set course for patrol area via Celebes Sea, Sulu Sea, and Balabac Strait.

On 6 August, while transiting Balabac Strait submerged, periscope lookout spotted smoke on horizon bearing 330 degrees at 1226 hours. Sound soon confirmed many props. Called General Quarters Torpedo and began closing.

Soon contact revealed to be a convoy of six troop transports, escorted by a DD and an Auxiliary Cruiser. Contact Report was sent. Position of convoy7-37 N 116-50 E , Estimated Course and Speed: 082 10 knots.

After a high speed run at 150 feet, Seal was 1400 yards off track of convoy and ready to fired. All bow tubes were made ready to fire at the Aikoku Maru class Aux Cruiser of 14800 tons. At 1303, fired four MK 14 torpedoes, set for 6 feet. Seas were heavy and prevented minimal depth setting.

Torpedo #1 immediately went erratic to port, and then went into a circular run! Emergency depth of 100 feet was ordered as torpedo #4 left the tube. Torpedo #2 prematurely detonated 10 seconds after leaving tube. Torpedoes # 3 and #4 missed, possibly due to deep run or heavy seas. Unable to visually confirm due to emergency descent but torpedoes appeared to track properly .

As Seal was at 90 feet, a massive explosion above, close rocked the boat. This was torpedo #1 which had by this time mad full circle and detonated above the boat at estimated depth of 45-50 feet. The boat was shaken, but undamaged. The enemy destroyer (AKATSUKI CLASS) closed in as Drum wen to 250 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

The heavy seas made the DD's job difficult as it never truly located Seal. About five depth charges were dropped, none close and the DD soon shuffled off to rejoin convoy. Seal secured from General Quarters and continued transit of the strait, surfacing after dark at 1840.

Throughout the day on 8 August a persistent "MAVIS" patrol aircraft shadowed Seal , forcing repeated dives and surfacing . On the fourth dive at 1500, remained submerged until after dark. Arrived in patrol area on evening of 10 August in ideal weather, but no contacts aside from daily patrol planes.

The next few days were uneventful as Seal patrolled on the surface searching for contacts, sans the 13th and 14th when patrolled submerged close to shallow cost of Southern Hainan Island.

On 15 August, during the morning trim dive at 0733, sound reported prop noises at 345 degrees. Surfaced, and closed at high speed spotting smoke at 0807. At 0815 confirmed had a convoy at 19-12 N 112 32-E off Hainan Island. Convoy course/speed estimated to be 104 degrees 8 knots. Called General Quarters torpedo and closed until submerged at 0840 for attack from port side of convoy. Convoy consisted of five ships...four mid sized AK and one mid sized AO identified as of the AKEBONO MARU Class.A reply to contact report was received to target tankers , as was the plan anyways

At 0853 fired four MK 14 torpedoes from bow tubes 1,2,3,4. Torpedoes # 2 and #3 prematurely detonated about 100 yards from target. Target was alerted and took evasive action, but the remaining torpedoes had tracked properly and appeared were going to impact. Torpedo 1 hit amidships, but failed to detonate-dud. Torpedo #4 's wake was visible as it ran under the stern at the stack of the tanker. The DD(Fubuki Class) was now closing in, running down torpedo tracks . Ordered Seal to 250 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

For the next five hours the destroyer pounded Seal with depth charges . At 1114 a close pattern caused minor flooding in forward torpedo room , as well as leaks in piping and air lines through the boat. After this pattern, the DD appeared to slow close contact as Seal increased depth to 375 feet.

Attempted to surface twice, but due to air cover from Hainan was unable to run on surface during the day After dark surfaced and attempted to locate convoy but had no luck. Disengaged and returned to patrol area.

On the morning of 16 August, sound again made contact during trim dive at bearing 322. Closed target on the surface and soon had a mid sized tanker with a lone Chidori escorting. Went to General Quarters and closed the small convoy, which was on course of 064 at 12 knots.

At 0736 fired three stern torpedoes at SEITO MARU (5186 tons) from 1000 yards. All three torpedoes prematurely detonated. Adjusted and fired another torpedo. This torpedo impacted target but failed to detonate-dud. Alerted, the Chidori closed in dropping depth charges but seemed to never gain solid contact. An hour after it began, the attack was over. Two hours later Seal surfaced and gave chased, tracking via the smoke from 10 NM.

During the end around, convoy changed course at 1100 hours directly for Seal, submerged along track, went to General Quarters and closed for attack. At 1145 fired four bow torpedoes at the tanker. One torpedo prematurely exploded just 15 yards from target, while others tracked properly, observed wakes run under target, more deep runners.

Chidori closed in pinging and delivered a much more persistent and effective counter attack over next few hours. Howeve,r by 1600 Seal was able to elude the Chidori and surfaced, racing ahead for another end around, when lookouts spotted the SEITO MARU steaming NQ, zigging at 8-10 knots. The escort, convinced Seal was still submerged was estimated 5-6 NM behind at the scene of attack..

Closed the temporarily unguarded SEITO MARU at high submerged speed reaching firing position , and fired stern torpedoes at 1813. Three prematurely detonated, but torpedo #4 impacted, causing the tanker to slow and a fire to break out. Turned seal to bring bow tubes to bear and fired the final two bow torpedoes, both of which hit but failed to detonate.(DUDS!) .

Evaluating options and the fact no guns were visible on the tanker, the escort was a minimum 5.5 NM away, ordered Battle Surface.

1818 Seal surfaced with stern pointing at SEITO MARU from 2000 yards, and opened fire with 3 inch and 20 MM guns. The 3 inch gun scored 51 hits (57 rounds fired) and 20 MM scored numerous hits as well setting fire to bridge of tanker.

At 1835, with fires raging and shells still being fired into the waterline, a massive explosion erupted aboard the tanker, leaving it broken in two and on fire. Counted eight y lifeboats in water. At 1844 hours, SEITO MARU 5150 tons sunk at 19 10 N 114 11 E.

Lookouts spotted the Chidori in the dusk sky, racing in fast, no doubt responding to distress call or seeing the fires. Seal was off racing away at 20 knots. Chidori appeared to spot Seal and gave chase , which was concerning since a Chidori could overtake a sub at maximum speed. However, with night quickly approaching, it appeared Chidori lost sight of us in the eastern skyline and slowed at the wreck site, perhaps rescuing survivors .A SD radar contact was made at 1900 but remained steady at 8 NM, did not submerged.
With all torpedoes expended, set course for home via Bashi Channel, East Coast of the Philippines, Molucca-Banda Seas , and Timor Straits . No further enemy contacts were made and Seal arrived at Fremantle on 31 August.

Ships Sunk

Name/Class
SEITO MARU

Type
AO

Tons
5150 tons.

Date/Time
16 August 1942 1844 hours

Location
19-10 N 114-11 E.

Cause

Torpedo/Gunfire

Remarks:

One out of twenty two torpedoes fired functioned properly. To date, the various torpedo maladies have caused Seal to miss sinking an aircraft carrier, a light cruiser, and eleven merchant vessels of 1000 tons or more.

U-190

10-09-21, 01:58 AM

:Kaleun_Thumbs_Up:

Bubblehead1980

10-13-21, 11:57 AM

War Patrol Report
USS Seal SS-183
Sixth War Patrol
24 October-2 December 1942

A. Prologue

Returned from a abbreviated patrol on 11 October to Fremantle, Australia. Voyage repairs and refit, with loading of twenty-two MK 14 torpedoes completed. Ready for set 24 October 1942.

B. Narrative

Officers and CPO's for the Sixth War Patrol

Officers:
LCDR K.C. Hurd, USN. CO
LT I.T. Ryan, USN. XO
LT B.R.P. Digby, USN.
LT (jg) M.L. Lynch, USN.
Ens D.B. Thompson, USN.

Chief Petty Officers:
CMoMM D.R. Saunders, USN. Chief of the Boat
CTM T.B. Lee, USN.
CQM H.P. Hammond, USN.
CMoMM V.S. Balltantine, USN.
CMoMM M.A. Grady, USN.
CMoMM U.W. Clinton, USN.

24 October

1330 Departed Fremantle, Australia for patrol area Palau Islands via Darwin, Australia.

1630 Trim Dive

1700 Surfaced

25 October

0900-1150 Gunnery, dive, torpedo attack drills.

1400 Deep dive to 350 feet.

1500 Surfaced.

26 October

En route Darwin

27 October

En route Darwin

28 October

En route Darwin

29 October

En route Darwin

30 October

1500 Docked for refuel at Darwin, Australia.

1920 Departed Darwin for patrol area-Palau Islands via Arafura, Ceram, and Halmahera Seas.

31 October

En route patrol area.

1 November

En route patrol area

1900 Entered Ceram Sea

2 November

En route patrol area

1200 Entered Halmahera Sea

1629 SJ contact bearing 019 8.5 NM. 0-9N 129-13E.

1644 SJ contact is patrol vessel in the strait between Halmahera and Gebe Islands-avoided on surface.

3 November

0000 Exited Halmahera Sea, en route to patrol area.

1235 SJ contact bearing 063 8 NM 4-3 N 131-17 E. Set intercept course.

1238 Smoke spotted bearing 351. General Quarters-Torpedo. Submerged for attack.

1324 All stern tubes made ready for firing.

1330 (ATTACK NO. 1) Fired tubes 5,6,7.

1330:20 Torpedo (#5) prematurely exploded.

1330:31 Torpedo (#6) prematurely exploded.

1330:44 Torpedo (#7) wake observed running below target.

1330:51 Fired tube #8. Ordered to bring bow tubes to bear.

1331 Torpedo (#8) wake observed running below target.

1332:11 Torpedo exploded 300 yards off opposite side of target.

1340 Target proceeding on zig course 270° 7-8 knots. Reloading stern tubes, will surface for end around when clear.

1500 Surfaced for end around.

2010 Ahead of target, submerged for night time periscope attack w radar.

2025 All bow tubes made ready for firing.

2027 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2) Fired tubes 1,2,3.

2027:58 Torpedo #1 prematurely exploded near target.

2028:01 Torpedo #2 impacted target, large secondary explosion. Believe hit boilers.

2028:06 Torpedo#3 impacted target. Large fires. Vessel went adrift, on fire.

2030 Vessel is burning and appears to be sinking.

2035 KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons sunk at 4-04 N 130-40 E.

2036 Surfaced. Secured General Quarters, ordered forward tubes reloaded, and set course for patrol area.

4 November

0400 Entered patrol area

0651 SD contact 8 NM closing fast. Submerged.

0652-1720 Conducted submerged patrol.

1730 Surfaced into heavy seas.

5 November

0541 SD contact 10 NM closing fast. Submerged.

0751 Surfaced.

1140 SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged

1729 Surfaced.

6 November

0100 Sea conditions remain rough, with wind, overcast, and light fog limiting visibility.

0530 Weather cleared. Seas remain heavy.

0555 SD contact 11 NM range steady.

0600 Lost SD contact.

0730 SD contact 5.5 NM closing fast. Dive! Emergency depth 200 ft!

1200 Submerged at periscope depth. Extended SD radar mast contact at 6 NM. Ordered 250 ft.

1732 Surfaced.

7 November

0618 SD contact steady 7 NM.

0620:22 SD contact suddenly began closing rapidly.

0620:27 Spotted by lookouts bearing 223. Type: Twin engine medium bomber, likely BETTY.

0620:30 Dive! Depth 200 ft, Emergency!

1622 Distant props audible on sound bearing 323. Ordered periscope depth and course to investigate.

1630 At periscope depth, dusk, air patrols unlikely. Surfaced.

1650 SJ contact bearing 340 9 NM. 6-0 N 133-55 E. Set course 350 to close.

1704 Visually spotted DD bearing 343. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1722 Submerged for attack. Ordered depth 250 feet, close at high speed.

1734 Slowed speed. Seal ordered to periscope depth from 250 feet.

1735 Sound reported course change of contact, increasing speed, closing! Ordered halt to descent. Boat depth 196 ft, ordered to turn bow towards contact to minimize profile to active sonar beam.

1736 Pinging began.

1738 DD passed above, depth charge splashes audible.

1739 DC explosions. One close, boat shaken. Boat Depth 300 ft.

1743 DC explosions, close.

1747 DC explosions, close.

1755 Escort dropping charges further away, may have lost contact with Seal.

1758 DD passed above. DC splashes.

1759 DC explosions, astern.

1805 DD passing ahead, pinging.

1825 Last DC explosion.

1838 lost contact with DD.

1851 Believe DD is above in area, listening.

2250 Periscope depth. All clear.

2252 SJ radar depth. SJ contact bearing 168 degrees 6 NM. 6-9 N 133 50 E. Contact appears stationary, likely DD still listening for Seal. Secured Silent Running.

2255 Surfaced. Set course 340 to patrol West of Palau Islands.

2300 Secured General Quarters.

8 November

0626 SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged.

1700 Surfaced

9 November

0500 Submerged 15 NM from Palau Harbor main entrance for patrol.

1158 Sound has distant props at 283 degrees. Turned to investigate.

1330 Sound is aux PC type vessel.

1400 Sound reports distant heavy props bearing 200. Turned to investigate.

1440 Smoke sighted bearing 358.

1441 SJ radar depth. SJ contact bearing 535 9 NM. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1502 Sound reports warship contact close to bearing of merchant currently closing. Possible escort for vessel as she approaches the harbor.

1507 Periscope depth. Slowed for observation. PC type escorting AK into harbor. Went to 250 feet for high speed closing.

1520 Report: Battery at 38 percent, had to slow to avoid draining as may need for prolonged evasion. Prepared for long range torpedo shot.

1524 AK appears to be of SEIA MARU class 7590 tons.

1530 All forward tubes made ready.

1532 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3) Fired tubes 1,2,3.

1533 Two premature detonations.

1535 Torpedo missed forward. Target alerted by premature explosions. Escort closing towards Seal. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running. Went to 300 ft.

1544 Pinging.

1546 Close depth charge explosions. Boat shaken.

1600 Depth 382 ft. Very Close DC explosions. Boat shaken terribly. Damage Reported(See Damage Section)

1609 Close depth charge explosions. Damage (See Damage Section for complete liste) Report of leaks and flooding in aft torpedo room. DC party assigned.

1619 Leaks stopped in aft torpedo room. Flooding controlled. Pumping out water.

1620 Depth 400 ft.

1625 Close DC explosions. Damage (See damage section) (Forward torpedo's, CT, control room)

1637 Water pumped out of aft torpedo room.

1710 Lost contact with escort. Possibly running quiet to listen for Seal.

1758 Sound contact on escort bearing 128 , estimated range 6000 yards and opening.

2017 Battery power at twenty five percent. Ordered periscope depth.

2023 Periscope, Sound, and Radar are all clear. Secured Silent Running.

2026 Surfaced.

2030 Secured General Quarters. Set course west to open range from Palau Islands to commence inspection and repairs.

2200 Inspection reveals Stern tubes #6 and #7 non operational, repairs began immediately.

TM2 F.P. Ackerman (Aft Torpedo) medically relieved due to manic state.

10 November

0010 Battery Charge completed.

0526 SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged 140 NM W of Palau.

1722 Periscope/Radar depth. All clear.

1730 Surfaced. Repairs on stern tubes #6 and #7 continue, still non operational.

11 November

0135 SJ contact bearing 052 9 NM. 7-8N 131-20 E. Increased speed to intercept.

0145 Engineering Officer reports Tubes #6 and #7 are now operational, just time as SJ contact developed into multiple. Likely a convoy.

0148 General Quarters-Torpedo

0149 Convoy sighted. 7-04 N 131-20 E Estimated and speed speed 096 degrees 9 knots. three AK, one possible one possible escort.

0200 Submerged for attack.

0205 Convoy appears unescorted, sailing in single column about 800 yards apart for protection. Leading is mid sized AK, next is large AO, followed by smaller AO, and a large AK. Target is large AO.

0208 After torpedo room reports stern tubes #6 and #7 loaded (torpedo remove for repairs)

0212 Made all bow tubes ready for firing. AO is riding low in water, likely loaded with fuel.

0221 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4) Fired bow tubes 1,2,3,4.

0222:00 Torpedo impact! Massive explosion of AO as volatile fuel cargo set off.

0222:05 Torpedo impact! Massive secondary explosion. Tanker appeared to lift out of the water momentarily from the explosion. Seal shaken by the powerful shockwave.

0222:10 Unsure of hit, possible premature detonation but close to target.

0222:15 Torpedo missed, wake visible.

0222: Tanker is burning hulk, adrift

0226 GENYO MARU 11800 tons sunk at 7-04 N 131-20 E .

0230 unable to get shot at other vessels, all turned away at high speed.

0316 Area clear. Surfaced, laid out pursuit course for end around. Three remaining vessels are sailing together zig zag course 096 for mutual protection.

Secured General Quarters.

0541 SD contact 7 NM closing.

0626 Aircraft is searching area. Likely called in by convoy.

0712 Sound has props at bearing 325. Closing contacts.

0730 General Quarters-Torpedo.

0731 Periscope depth. Observed convoy in column course 096 9 knots. Ordered 75 ft and flank speed to gain firing position.

0742 Turned to bring stern tubes to bear. Ordered periscope depth.

0745 Mid sized AK, small AO, large AK in column 096 9 knots. Will attack large AK with stern tubes as it is armed. The smaller AK and AO do not have visible guns.

0751 convoy changed course ruining shot.

0843 Prepared to surface for end around, SD contact 10 NM. Convoys air cover. Ordered 200 feet. Seas a flat calm, clear, glassy.

0920 Surfaced. Flank speed for end around. Smoke from convoy visible estimated 12 NM. No SJ contacted at time.

0937 Regained SJ contact with convoy. Bearing 359 9 NM.

0946 SD contact 8 NM. Steady range.

0949 SD contact began rapidly closing. Dive! 200 feet, emergency!

0950 Through No.2 periscope during dive, observed large flying boat in a power glide towards Seal. Aircraft is H6K MAVIS patrol aircraft.

0954 Large explosions audible through hull. Likely aircraft dropping.

1104 Periscope depth. Extended SD radar mast for sweep. SD contact remaining in area, covering escape of convoy, preventing Seal from Surfacing. Ordered 200 feet, will check again at 1200.

1200 SD contact 8 NM

1300 SD contact 6 NM

1400 Clear. Surfaced

1500 SD contact 6 NM closing. Submerged.

1502 Explosions above.

1600 SD contact 11 NM closing.

1850 Night fall. SD radar clear.

1900 Surfaced.

12 November

0600 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1800 Surfaced

13 November

0618 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1714 Surfaced.

14 November

0458 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1700 Surfaced

15 November

0516 SD contact range 6 NM steady.

0523 Lost SD contact.

0814 SD contact 12 NM closing.

0816 SD contact at 9 NM closing fast. Submerged.

1300 Engineering Officer reports all damage from 9 November depth charge attack repaired. Torpedo tubes #6 and #7 now fully repaired.

1730 Surfaced.

16 November

0509 Submerged for patrol in southern approaches to Palau SW of Angaur Island.

1425 Sound reports multiple distant props, closing bearing 293. Turned to intercept. Went to SJ radar depth.

1516 Smoke spotted bearing 005 degrees. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1530 Convoy five AK one DD departing southern exit Palau Anchorage. Went to 200 ft for high speed run to close range. Went to 200 feet for high speed run to close range.

1612 Targeting both AK in starboard column. All forward tubes made ready.

1614:55 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO 5) Fired tubes 1 and 2 at Target #1

1615:05 Fired tubes 3 and 3 at Target #2

1617 Torpedoes missed. All tracked properly but passed below target, observed wakes. Turned for stern shot.

1620:05 Fired Tubes 5,6

1620:10 fired tubes 7,8 All torpedoes expended.

1625 All torpedoes missed .

1626 DD closing fast bearing 180. Ordered 250 ft, Rigged for Silent Running and Depth Charge.

1635 Depth charge explosions astern.

1636 DD passed above. DC explosions. Boat depth 275 ft.

1804 Last DC explosion. Enemy went silent after, likely listening.

2245 Sound reports warship leaving area at high speed.

2306 Periscope Depth. All clear

2307 Radar depth for SJ sweep. All clear. Secured General Quarters and Silent Running. Prepared to surface.

2330 Surfaced. All torpedoes expended. Set course for Pearl Harbor per orders.

17 November

En route Pearl Harbor.

0603 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1800 Surfaced.

18 November

En route Pearl Harbor.

1222 SD contact 7 NM. Submerged

1800 Surfaced.

19 November

En route Pearl Harbor

20 November

En route Pearl Harbor

1118 SD contact 260 NM SSE of Guam. Submerged.

1513 Surfaced.

21 November
En route Pearl Harbor

22 November
En route Pearl Harbor

23 November

En route Pearl Harbor

24 November
En route Pearl Harbor

25 November
En route Pearl Harbor

26 November

1239 SD contact 10 NM closing. 360 NM SE Wake Island. Submerged to avoid

1500 Surfaced.

27 November

En route Pearl Harbor

28 November

En route Pearl Harbor

29 November
En route Pearl Harbor

30 November
En route Pearl Harbor

1 December

En route Pearl Harbor

2 December

1000 Arrived Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, T.H. Terminated patrol.

C Weather

Weather during transit and during time in patrol area was quite favorable. A few sporadic storms and episodes of heavy seas with fog but overall, nature cooperated on this patrol

D Tides

Tidal activity was consistent with that previously reported in patrol area.

E Attack Data

Number of Torpedo Attacks Conducted 5
Number of ships sunk 2
Number of ships damaged 0
Number of ships probably sunk 0
Number ships probably damage 0

Torpedoes on board ( start of patrol ) 22
Torpedoes Expended 22

Ships sunk by torpedo.

NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

1)KOBAYASHI MARU AK 9980 3 September 1942 2035 4-04 N 130-40 E 330 NM SSW of Palau Islands

2)GENYO MARU AO 11800 11 November 1942 0226 7-04 N 131-20 E 210 NM WSW of Palau Islands

Torpedo Attack Data War Patrol Six USS Seal

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 1 Date: 3 November 1942 Time: 1330 Location:4-3 N 131-18E 305 NM SSE of Palau Islands.

Description

Lone AK detected on SJ radar en route to patrol area.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No. 1 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Target No. 1
Name/Class KOBAYASHI MARU
Type AK
Tons 9980
Range 1100 yards
AOB 89° P
Bearing 189°
True Bearing 11°
Course 270°
Speed 8 knots
Zig? No
Remark
AK has large guns, estimated to be four or five inch mounted forward, aft, and one each side, similar to an auxiliary cruiser.

Torpedo Attack No. 1 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#5
Type MK 14
Serial No.47371
Gyro 358 L
Track 81 P
Course 181°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5000
Method Single bearing TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Prematurely detonated.

Tube#6
Type MK 14
Serial No.47992
Gyro 358 L
Track 81° P
Course 181°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5003
Method Single bearing TDC with spread.
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2°
Detonator Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Prematurely detonated

Tube#7
Type MK 14
Serial No.41373
Gyro 358 L
Track 81° P
Course 181°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5000
Method Single bearing TDC with spread
Firing Interval
Spread 2° starboard
Detonator Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[X] No[]
Remark
Torpedo ran deeper than set. Wake observed passing below target. Torpedo detonated itself off starboard side of target.

Tube#8
Type MK 14
Serial No.43934
Gyro 100° L
Track 78° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5009
Firing Interval 0
Spread 0°
Detonator Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[X] No[]
Remark
Torpedo wake observed passing below target. Torpedo ran deeper than set. Torpedo exploded shortly after passing below target, on opposite side.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 54 ft
Course 180°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 89° P

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 2 Date: 3 November 1942 Time:2027 Location: 4-04 N 130-40 E 330 NM SSE of Palau Islands.

Description

Follow up to Torpedo Attack No. 1 after end around. Night time periscope attack, using SJ at radar depth (40 ft) for tracking.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

KOBAYASHI MARU AK 9980 3 September 1942 2035 4-04 N 130-40 E 330 NM SW of Palau Islands

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No.2 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Name/Class KOBAYASHI MARU
Type AK
Tons 9980
Range 900 yards
AOB 84° S
Bearing 356°
True Bearing 182°
Course 272°
Speed 8 knots
Zig? Yes (initially, ceased before firing )
Remark
AK has large guns, estimated to be four or five inch mouted forward, aft, and one each side, similar to an auxiliary cruiser.

Believe enemy vessel was carrying ammunition dye to large explosions and repeated, abnormally large explosions upon sinking. Multiple ammo crates and remains of crates seeing floating in water. One life boat spotted indicating very few crew survived the conflaguration.

Torpedo Attack No. 2 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Type MK 14
Serial No.47398
Gyro 7°L
Track 95° S
Course 193°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5201
Method Single bearing TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo prematurely detonated near target.

Tube#2
Type MK 14
Serial No.45435
Gyro 7°L
Track 95° S
Course 193°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5445
Method Single bearing TDC with spread
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2° starboard
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Admidships, Forward
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo hit caused massive explosion with a large residual fire. Believe impacted boilers.

Tube#3
Type MK 14
Serial No.47398
Gyro 7°L
Track 95° S
Course 193°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5201
Method Single bearing TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2° Port
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[]
POI Aft of stack
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Second hit on target appeared to finish the job, as she quickly lost way with another large fire starting. Target began to settle in the water quickly.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 54 ft
Course 185°
Speed 1 knot
AOB 84° S

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 3 Date: 9 November 1942 Time:1532 Location:7-42 N 135 24 E 12 Nm WNW of Palau Islands.

Description

While on submerged patrol for traffic departing and approaching North Entrance to Palau anchorage, sound made contact on lone AK, confirmed by radar. Turned to began high speed aproach. Sound later made contact on a PC type vessel, apparently a escort sent out to guide vessel in.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION
None

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No.3 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Name/Class SEIA MARU
Type AK
Tons 7590
Range 3929 yards
AOB 81° P
Bearing 022°
True Bearing 286°
Course 178°
Speed 9 knots
Zig? No
Remark
Initially unescorted, a PC type vessel soon appeared, likely sent from harbor to escort vessel in.

Torpedo Attack No. 3 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Type MK 14
Serial No.47316
Gyro 5°L
Track 97° P
Course 260°
Depth 3 ft
Speed Low
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5235
Method Single bearing
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Premature detonation

Tube#2
Type MK 14
Serial No.44316
Gyro 5°L
Track 97° P
Course 260°
Depth 3 ft
Speed Low
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5229
Method Single bearing
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Preature detonation

Tube#3
Type MK 14
Serial No.48313
Gyro 5°L
Track 97° P
Course 260°
Depth 3 ft
Speed Low
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5587
Method Single bearing
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI Aft of stack
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Missed ahead of target, target slowed and made zig due to being alerted by two previous premature explosions

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 54 ft
Course 262°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 81° P

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 4 Date: 11 November 1942 Time:0222 Location:7-05 N 131 18 E 208 NM WSW of Palau Islands.

Description

SJ contact on unescorted convoy at 9 NM. Submerged for night time periscope/radar attack.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION
GENYO MARU AO 11800 11 November 1942 0226 7-04 N 131-20 E

Verified by:

Observed via No. 2 periscope two torpedoes impact tanker admiships and aft, causing massive explosion of fuel that ripped vessel apart, leaving it a floating, burning hulk. Observed burning vessel sink less than ten minutes later.

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No.4 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Name/Class GENYO MARU
Type AO
Tons 11800
Range 974 yards
AOB 89° P
Bearing 11°
True Bearing 194°
Course 096°
Speed 9 knots
Zig? No
Remark
Large guns forward and aft visiible.

Torpedo Attack No. 4 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Type MK 14
Serial No.37316
Gyro 360°L
Track 100° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4242
Method Single bearing=TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo impact caused a massive explosion of the tankers volatile cargo.

Tube#2
Type MK 14
Serial No.37339
Gyro 360°L
Track 100° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4267
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Aft, stack.
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo impact was the "icing on the cake" causing another massive explosion and fires. Tanker left a burning, drifitng hulk.

Tube#3
Type MK 14
Serial No.37919
Gyro 360°L
Track 100° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4391
Method Single bearing-TDC spread
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2° starboard
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo prematurely detonated close to target, initially judged as a hit. Detonated possibly due to proximity of massive explosions caused by impacts of torpedoes #1 and #2 triggered the exploder .

Tube#4
Type MK 14
Serial No.30919
Gyro 360°L
Track 100° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4491
Method Single bearing - TDC spread.
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2° port
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo missed ahead of target, likely due to target slowing, losing way after first two hits. Torpedo reached end of run. No end of run explosion heard.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 54 ft
Course 185°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 89° P

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 5 Date: 16 November 1942 Time:1614 Location: 6-58 N 133-55 E 15 NM WSW of Angaur Island, Palau Islands.

Description

While patrolling southern approaches to Palau anchorage off Angaur Island, sound detected prop noises, which upon investigation developed into a convoy of five AK, one DD departing the anchorage. First visual contact was made on smoke plumes at about 11 NM, followed by SJ contact (upon reaching radar depth) at 9 NM.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION
None

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No.5 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class ZINBU MARU
Type AK
Tons 5186
Range 2081 yards
AOB 79° S
Bearing 332°
True Bearing 117°
Course 228°
Speed 9 knots
Zig? No
Remark
Trailing AK starboard column

Target#2
Name/Class MOMOYAMA MARU
Type AK
Tons 4037
Range 1900
AOB 90° P
Bearing 002°
True Bearing 147°
Course 228°
Speed 9 knots
Zig? No
Remark
Lead AK starboard column.

Torpedo Attack No. 5 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Type MK 14
Serial No.31311
Gyro 341 R
Track 79°S
Course 126°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5848
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Tube#2
Type MK 14
Gyro 341 R
Track 79°S
Course 126°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.2763
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark

Tube#3
Type MK 14
Serial No.41371
Gyro 14° R
Track 103°S
Course 159°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4448
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Tube#4
Type MK 14
Gyro R
Track °S
Course °
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4763
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread °
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

(Stern Tubes)
Tube#5
Type MK 14
Serial No.61311
Gyro 021 R
Track 30°S
Course 141°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.3948
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Tube#6
Type MK 14
Gyro 021 R
Track 30°S
Course 141°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.2763
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark

Tube#7
Type MK 14
Serial No.41371
Gyro 021 R
Track 30°S
Course 141°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4448
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Tube#8
Type MK 14
Serial No. 51339
Gyro 025 R
Track 38°S
Course 147°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.1763
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread °
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Bow shots:

Target#1
Depth 54 ft
Course 145°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 79° S

Target#2
Depth 54 ft
Course 145°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 90° S

Stern shots.

Target#1
Depth 54 ft
Course 320°
Speed 4 knots
AOB 97° S

Target#2
Depth 54 ft
Course 314°
Speed 4 knots
AOB 110° S
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

E Major Defects and Damage

9 November 1942 - Depth Charge Attack #2

Several close depth charges during this attack caused serious damage.

1. Bulkhead damage and leaks with moderate flooding up to three feet of water in after torpedo room.

2. Stern tubes #5,#6, #7, #8, all damaged. Tubes #6,#7 were heavily damaged and left inoperable for several days, and took five days to completely repair.

3. Port prop shaft knocked out of alignment causing excessive noise for rest of the patrol and inability to make above 19.2 knots.

4.Dive planes transmission

5. Rudder transmission

6. No.1 No. 3 diesel engines

7.No. 2 and N. 4 electric engines

8. Aft batteries

9. Numerous water piping and air lines leaks throughout boat.

10. Leaks with minor flooding in conning tower

11. SJ radar cabinet

12.Hydraluic pump

13. Trim pump

14. Compressor

15.Forward batteries.

16. Port sonar head hoist

17. Bow dive planes transmission.

18. Radio Antenna

19.No.1 periscope head

20. No 2 periscope head.

Remarks

Flooding was quickly contained by a depth of 410 feet was reached during these efforts by the damage control party, before control restored.

Most damage was repaired within 72 hours. However, torpedo tubes #6 and #7 remained inoperable for some time and were not fully repaired until five days later due to heavy damage

.
F Anti-Submarine Countermeasures

The main ASW acitvity in Palau area was conducted via air patrols, which proved effective to some degree. Daily air patrols arrived shortly after dawn and patrolled the shipping approaches , while also responding to distress calls from vessels attack. After first attack and sinking on 3 November, aircraft arrived on scene shortly after, actively searching for Seal. On 16 November, aircraft responded at dawn after Seal's attack on an unescorted convoy in the night and successfully prevented follow up attacks.

Enemy sonar and depth chrge tactics were about the same as previously encountered, overall. However, the 9 November attack was as demonstrated by accuracy, persistence, and damage caused to Seal conducted by a first rate vessel, disgused as a unassuming auxillary type subchaser, sent out to escort a freighter into the Palau anchorage.

The 7 November attack on the destroyer was spoiled by alertness of target, which detected Seal as she approached at deep submergence. The attack was ultimately ineffective, but impressive nonthelesss.

G Radar

SJ Radar performance was excellent, typically detecting targets at 9-10 NM.

SD Radar performance was overall excellent as well. Typical detection of aircraft at range of 8-10 NM.

H Radio

Radio performance was normal, however it did somewhat diminish after the radio was damaged durng the depth charge attack of 9 November.

I Mines

No enemy mines were encountered on this patrol.

J Sound Gear and Conditions

Sound gear functioned well overall, with targets being passively picked up at unexpected range, estimated to be in excess of ten nautical miles, enabling contact and attacks to be made.

Sound conditions were ideal in area, likely contributing the effectiness of the enemy's depth charge attacks.

K Thermal Layers

Thermal layers were detected at depths of 90-260 feet.

L Gunnery

No gun actions took place on this patrol.

M Personnel

After six patrols, the crew is a well trained, veteran submarine crew, and performed as is expected.

A total of fourteen crew members suffered minor injuries in the depth charge attack of 9 November.

TM2 F. P. Ackerman was relieved for combat fatigue during the attack after the damage and flooding in After torpedo room. Ackerman, with solid performance until this incident was restored to duty within the week but has since been reassigned pending medical evaluation.

N. Health and Habitability

Health and Habitability of the boat was overall excellent.

O. Miles Steamed/Fuel Consumed

Miles Gallons
Fremantle to Darwin 2258 29887
Darwin to Patrol Area 1451 20545
Patrol Area to Pearl Harbor 4514 41241

P. Duration
Days
Fremantle to Darwin 6.5
Darwin to Patrol Area 3.5
Days in Patrol Area 13
Patrol Area to Pearl Harbor 14
Days submerged 11
Total days on patrol 37

Q Navigational Aids

No Navigational aids were observed in patrol area.

R Enemy Radar and Radio Countermeasures

No known countermeasures to radar were encountered. Radio countermeasures were the usual attempts of jamming, masqeruading as Allied operators, but none were successful.

S Factors in Endurance

Torpedoes 0
Fuel 32,931 gallons
Food 24 days

Reason for termination of patrol: All torpedoes expended.

T Remarks

Torpedo malfunctions continue to plague Seal after six patrols. The most noted problem is premature detonations of torpedoes, followed by torpedoes running deep in spite of minimal depth settings, preventing hits.

Five out of twenty two torpedoes functioned properly on this patrol.

Upon reaching Pearl Harbor, Seal was ordered to San Francisco for a much overhaul and refit, for after six straight patrols, her material condition, while adequate leaves much to be desired for a fighting vessel. With regret, after six patrols at the helm, this was my final patrol in command of Seal, as have been assigned to new construction.

Revus

10-13-21, 06:24 PM

War Patrol Report
USS Seal SS-183
Sixth War Patrol
24 October-2 December 1942

A. Prologue

Returned for an abbreviated patrol on 11 October to Fremantle, Australia. Voyage repairs and refit, with loading of twenty-two MK 14 torpedoes completed. Ready for set 24 October 1942.

B. Narrative

Officers and CPO's for the Sixth War Patrol

Officers:
LCDR K.C. Hurd, USN. CO
LT I.T. Ryan, USN. XO
LT B.R.P. Digby, USN.
LT (jg) M.L. Lynch, USN.
Ens D.B. Thompson, USN.

Chief Petty Officers:
CMoMM D.R. Saunders, USN. Chief of the Boat
CTM T.B. Lee, USN.
CQM H.P. Hammond, USN.
CMoMM V.S. Balltantine, USN.
CMoMM M.A. Grady, USN.
CMoMM U.W. Clinton, USN.

24 October

1330 Departed Fremantle, Australia for patrol area Palau Islands via Darwin, Australia.

1630 Trim Dive

1700 Surfaced

25 October

0900-1150 Gunnery, dive, torpedo attack drills.

1400 Deep dive to 350 feet.

1500 Surfaced.

26 October

En route Darwin

27 October

En route Darwin

28 October

En route Darwin

29 October

En route Darwin

30 October

1500 Docked for refuel at Darwin, Australia.

1920 Departed Darwin for patrol area-Palau Islands via Arafura, Ceram, and Halmahera Seas.

31 October

En route patrol area.

1 November

En route patrol area

1900 Entered Ceram Sea

2 November

En route patrol area

1200 Entered Halmahera Sea

1629 SJ contact bearing 019 8.5 NM. 0-9N 129-13E.

1644 SJ contact is patrol vessel in the strait between Halmahera and Gebe Islands-avoided on surface.

3 November

0000 Exited Halmahera Sea, en route to patrol area.

1235 SJ contact bearing 063 8 NM 4-3 N 131-17 E. Set intercept course.

1238 Smoke spotted bearing 351. General Quarters-Torpedo. Submerged for attack.

1324 All stern tubes made ready for firing.

1330 (ATTACK NO. 1) Fired tubes 5,6,7.

1330:20 Torpedo (#5) prematurely exploded.

1330:31 Torpedo (#6) prematurely exploded.

1330:44 Torpedo (#7) wake observed running below target.

1330:51 Fired tube #8. Ordered to bring bow tubes to bear.

1331 Torpedo (#8) wake observed running below target.

1332:11 Torpedo exploded 300 yards off opposite side of target.

1340 Target proceeding on zig course 270° 7-8 knots. Reloading stern tubes, will surface for end around when clear.

1500 Surfaced for end around.

2010 Ahead of target, submerged for night time periscope attack w radar.

2025 All bow tubes made ready for firing.

2027 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2) Fired tubes 1,2,3.

2027:58 Torpedo #1 prematurely exploded near target.

2028:01 Torpedo #2 impacted target, large secondary explosion. Believe hit boilers.

2028:06 Torpedo#3 impacted target. Large fires. Vessel went adrift, on fire.

2030 Vessel is burning and appears to be sinking.

2035 KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons sunk at 4-04 N 130-40 E.

2036 Surfaced. Secured General Quarters, ordered forward tubes reloaded, and set course for patrol area.

4 November

0400 Entered patrol area

0651 SD contact 8 NM closing fast. Submerged.

0652-1720 Conducted submerged patrol.

1730 Surfaced into heavy seas.

5 November

0541 SD contact 10 NM closing fast. Submerged.

0751 Surfaced.

1140 SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged

1729 Surfaced.

6 November

0100 Sea conditions remain rough, with wind, overcast, and light fog limiting visibility.

0530 Weather cleared. Seas remain heavy.

0555 SD contact 11 NM range steady.

0600 Lost SD contact.

0730 SD contact 5.5 NM closing fast. Dive! Emergency depth 200 ft!

1200 Submerged at periscope depth. Extended SD radar mast contact at 6 NM. Ordered 250 ft.

1732 Surfaced.

7 November

0618 SD contact steady 7 NM.

0620:22 SD contact suddenly began closing rapidly.

0620:27 Spotted by lookouts bearing 223. Type: Twin engine medium bomber, likely BETTY.

0620:30 Dive! Depth 200 ft, Emergency!

1622 Distant props audible on sound bearing 323. Ordered periscope depth and course to investigate.

1630 At periscope depth, dusk, air patrols unlikely. Surfaced.

1650 SJ contact bearing 340 9 NM. 6-0 N 133-55 E. Set course 350 to close.

1704 Visually spotted DD bearing 343. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1722 Submerged for attack. Ordered depth 250 feet, close at high speed.

1734 Slowed speed. Seal ordered to periscope depth from 250 feet.

1735 Sound reported course change of contact, increasing speed, closing! Ordered halt to descent. Boat depth 196 ft, ordered to turn bow towards contact to minimize profile to active sonar beam.

1736 Pinging began.

1738 DD passed above, depth charge splashes audible.

1739 DC explosions. One close, boat shaken. Boat Depth 300 ft.

1743 DC explosions, close.

1747 DC explosions, close.

1755 Escort dropping charges further away, may have lost contact with Seal.

1758 DD passed above. DC splashes.

1759 DC explosions, astern.

1805 DD passing ahead, pinging.

1825 Last DC explosion.

1838 lost contact with DD.

1851 Believe DD is above in area, listening.

2250 Periscope depth. All clear.

2252 SJ radar depth. SJ contact bearing 168 degrees 6 NM. 6-9 N 133 50 E. Contact appears stationary, likely DD still listening for Seal. Secured Silent Running.

2255 Surfaced. Set course 340 to patrol West of Palau Islands.

2300 Secured General Quarters.

8 November

0626 SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged.

1700 Surfaced

9 November

0500 Submerged 15 NM from Palau Harbor main entrance for patrol.

1158 Sound has distant props at 283 degrees. Turned to investigate.

1330 Sound is aux PC type vessel.

1400 Sound reports distant heavy props bearing 200. Turned to investigate.

1440 Smoke sighted bearing 358.

1441 SJ radar depth. SJ contact bearing 535 9 NM. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1502 Sound reports warship contact close to bearing of merchant currently closing. Possible escort for vessel as she approaches the harbor.

1507 Periscope depth. Slowed for observation. PC type escorting AK into harbor. Went to 250 feet for high speed closing.

1520 Report: Battery at 38 percent, had to slow to avoid draining as may need for prolonged evasion. Prepared for long range torpedo shot.

1524 AK appears to be of SEIA MARU class 7590 tons.

1530 All forward tubes made ready.

1532 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3) Fired tubes 1,2,3.

1533 Two premature detonations.

1535 Torpedo missed forward. Target alerted by premature explosions. Escort closing towards Seal. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running. Went to 300 ft.

1544 Pinging.

1546 Close depth charge explosions. Boat shaken.

1600 Depth 382 ft. Very Close DC explosions. Boat shaken terribly. Damage Reported(See Damage Section)

1609 Close depth charge explosions. Damage (See Damage Section for complete liste) Report of leaks and flooding in aft torpedo room. DC party assigned.

1619 Leaks stopped in aft torpedo room. Flooding controlled. Pumping out water.

1620 Depth 400 ft.

1625 Close DC explosions. Damage (See damage section) (Forward torpedo's, CT, control room)

1637 Water pumped out of aft torpedo room.

1710 Lost contact with escort. Possibly running quiet to listen for Seal.

1758 Sound contact on escort bearing 128 , estimated range 6000 yards and opening.

2017 Battery power at twenty five percent. Ordered periscope depth.

2023 Periscope, Sound, and Radar are all clear. Secured Silent Running.

2026 Surfaced.

2030 Secured General Quarters. Set course west to open range from Palau Islands to commence inspection and repairs.

2200 Inspection reveals Stern tubes #6 and #7 non operational, repairs began immediately.

TM2 F.P. Ackerman (Aft Torpedo) medically relieved due to manic state.

10 November

0010 Battery Charge completed.

0526 SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged 140 NM W of Palau.

1722 Periscope/Radar depth. All clear.

1730 Surfaced. Repairs on stern tubes #6 and #7 continue, still non operational.

11 November

0135 SJ contact bearing 052 9 NM. 7-8N 131-20 E. Increased speed to intercept.

0145 Engineering Officer reports Tubes #6 and #7 are now operational, just time as SJ contact developed into multiple. Likely a convoy.

0148 General Quarters-Torpedo

0149 Convoy sighted. 7-04 N 131-20 E Estimated and speed speed 096 degrees 9 knots. three AK, one possible one possible escort.

0200 Submerged for attack.

0205 Convoy appears unescorted, sailing in single column about 800 yards apart for protection. Leading is mid sized AK, next is large AO, followed by smaller AO, and a large AK. Target is large AO.

0208 After torpedo room reports stern tubes #6 and #7 loaded (torpedo remove for repairs)

0212 Made all bow tubes ready for firing. AO is riding low in water, likely loaded with fuel.

0221 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4) Fired bow tubes 1,2,3,4.

0222:00 Torpedo impact! Massive explosion of AO as volatile fuel cargo set off.

0222:05 Torpedo impact! Massive secondary explosion. Tanker appeared to lift out of the water momentarily from the explosion. Seal shaken by the powerful shockwave.

0222:10 Unsure of hit, possible premature detonation but close to target.

0222:15 Torpedo missed, wake visible.

0222: Tanker is burning hulk, adrift

0226 GENYO MARU 11800 tons sunk at 7-04 N 131-20 E .

0230 unable to get shot at other vessels, all turned away at high speed.

0316 Area clear. Surfaced, laid out pursuit course for end around. Three remaining vessels are sailing together zig zag course 096 for mutual protection.

Secured General Quarters.

0541 SD contact 7 NM closing.

0626 Aircraft is searching area. Likely called in by convoy.

0712 Sound has props at bearing 325. Closing contacts.

0730 General Quarters-Torpedo.

0731 Periscope depth. Observed convoy in column course 096 9 knots. Ordered 75 ft and flank speed to gain firing position.

0742 Turned to bring stern tubes to bear. Ordered periscope depth.

0745 Mid sized AK, small AO, large AK in column 096 9 knots. Will attack large AK with stern tubes as it is armed. The smaller AK and AO do not have visible guns.

0751 convoy changed course ruining shot.

0843 Prepared to surface for end around, SD contact 10 NM. Convoys air cover. Ordered 200 feet. Seas a flat calm, clear, glassy.

0920 Surfaced. Flank speed for end around. Smoke from convoy visible estimated 12 NM. No SJ contacted at time.

0937 Regained SJ contact with convoy. Bearing 359 9 NM.

0946 SD contact 8 NM. Steady range.

0949 SD contact began rapidly closing. Dive! 200 feet, emergency!

0950 Through No.2 periscope during dive, observed large flying boat in a power glide towards Seal. Aircraft is H6K MAVIS patrol aircraft.

0954 Large explosions audible through hull. Likely aircraft dropping.

1104 Periscope depth. Extended SD radar mast for sweep. SD contact remaining in area, covering escape of convoy, preventing Seal from Surfacing. Ordered 200 feet, will check again at 1200.

1200 SD contact 8 NM

1300 SD contact 6 NM

1400 Clear. Surfaced

1500 SD contact 6 NM closing. Submerged.

1502 Explosions above.

1600 SD contact 11 NM closing.

1850 Night fall. SD radar clear.

1900 Surfaced.

12 November

0600 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1800 Surfaced

13 November

0618 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1714 Surfaced.

14 November

0458 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1700 Surfaced

15 November

0516 SD contact range 6 NM steady.

0523 Lost SD contact.

0814 SD contact 12 NM closing.

0816 SD contact at 9 NM closing fast. Submerged.

1300 Engineering Officer reports all damage from 9 November depth charge attack repaired. Torpedo tubes #6 and #7 now fully repaired.

1730 Surfaced.

16 November

0509 Submerged for patrol in southern approaches to Palau SW of Angaur Island.

1425 Sound reports multiple distant props, closing bearing 293. Turned to intercept. Went to SJ radar depth.

1516 Smoke spotted bearing 005 degrees. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1530 Convoy five AK one DD departing southern exit Palau Anchorage. Went to 200 ft for high speed run to close range. Went to 200 feet for high speed run to close range.

1612 Targeting both AK in starboard column. All forward tubes made ready.

1614:55 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO 5) Fired tubes 1 and 2 at Target #1

1615:05 Fired tubes 3 and 3 at Target #2

1617 Torpedoes missed. All tracked properly but passed below target, observed wakes. Turned for stern shot.

1620:05 Fired Tubes 5,6

1620:10 fired tubes 7,8 All torpedoes expended.

1625 All torpedoes missed .

1626 DD closing fast bearing 180. Ordered 250 ft, Rigged for Silent Running and Depth Charge.

1635 Depth charge explosions astern.

1636 DD passed above. DC explosions. Boat depth 275 ft.

1804 Last DC explosion. Enemy went silent after, likely listening.

2245 Sound reports warship leaving area at high speed.

2306 Periscope Depth. All clear

2307 Radar depth for SJ sweep. All clear. Secured General Quarters and Silent Running. Prepared to surface.

2330 Surfaced. All torpedoes expended. Set course for Pearl Harbor per orders.

17 November

En route Pearl Harbor.

0603 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1800 Surfaced.

18 November

En route Pearl Harbor.

1222 SD contact 7 NM. Submerged

1800 Surfaced.

19 November

En route Pearl Harbor

20 November

En route Pearl Harbor

1118 SD contact 260 NM SSE of Guam. Submerged.

1513 Surfaced.

21 November
En route Pearl Harbor

22 November
En route Pearl Harbor

23 November

En route Pearl Harbor

24 November
En route Pearl Harbor

25 November
En route Pearl Harbor

26 November

1239 SD contact 10 NM closing. 360 NM SE Wake Island. Submerged to avoid

1500 Surfaced.

27 November

En route Pearl Harbor

28 November

En route Pearl Harbor

29 November
En route Pearl Harbor

30 November
En route Pearl Harbor

1 December

En route Pearl Harbor

2 December

1000 Arrived Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, T.H. Terminated patrol.

C Weather

Weather during transit and during time in patrol area was quite favorable. A few sporadic storms and episodes of heavy seas with fog but overall, nature cooperated on this patrol

D Tides

Tidal activity was consistent with that previously reported in patrol area.

E Attack Data

Number of Torpedo Attacks Conducted 5
Number of ships sunk 2
Number of ships damaged 0
Number of ships probably sunk 0
Number ships probably damage 0

Torpedoes on board ( start of patrol ) 22
Torpedoes Expended 22

Ships sunk by torpedo.

NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

1)KOBAYASHI MARU AK 9980 3 September 1942 2035 4-04 N 130-40 E 330 NM SSW of Palau Islands

2)GENYO MARU AO 11800 11 November 1942 0226 7-04 N 131-20 E 210 NM WSW of Palau Islands

Torpedo Attack Data War Patrol Six USS Seal

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 1 Date: 3 November 1942 Time: 1330 Location:4-3 N 131-18E 305 NM SSE of Palau Islands.

Description

Lone AK detected on SJ radar en route to patrol area.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No. 1 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Target No. 1
Name/Class KOBAYASHI MARU
Type AK
Tons 9980
Range 1100 yards
AOB 89° P
Bearing 189°
True Bearing 11°
Course 270°
Speed 8 knots
Zig? No
Remark
AK has large guns, estimated to be four or five inch mounted forward, aft, and one each side, similar to an auxiliary cruiser.

Torpedo Attack No. 1 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#5
Type MK 14
Serial No.47371
Gyro 358 L
Track 81 P
Course 181°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5000
Method Single bearing TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Prematurely detonated.

Tube#6
Type MK 14
Serial No.47992
Gyro 358 L
Track 81° P
Course 181°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5003
Method Single bearing TDC with spread.
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2°
Detonator Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Prematurely detonated

Tube#7
Type MK 14
Serial No.41373
Gyro 358 L
Track 81° P
Course 181°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5000
Method Single bearing TDC with spread
Firing Interval
Spread 2° starboard
Detonator Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[X] No[]
Remark
Torpedo ran deeper than set. Wake observed passing below target. Torpedo detonated itself off starboard side of target.

Tube#8
Type MK 14
Serial No.43934
Gyro 100° L
Track 78° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5009
Firing Interval 0
Spread 0°
Detonator Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[X] No[]
Remark
Torpedo wake observed passing below target. Torpedo ran deeper than set. Torpedo exploded shortly after passing below target, on opposite side.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 54 ft
Course 180°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 89° P

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 2 Date: 3 November 1942 Time:2027 Location: 4-04 N 130-40 E 330 NM SSE of Palau Islands.

Description

Follow up to Torpedo Attack No. 1 after end around. Night time periscope attack, using SJ at radar depth (40 ft) for tracking.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

KOBAYASHI MARU AK 9980 3 September 1942 2035 4-04 N 130-40 E 330 NM SW of Palau Islands

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No.2 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Name/Class KOBAYASHI MARU
Type AK
Tons 9980
Range 900 yards
AOB 84° S
Bearing 356°
True Bearing 182°
Course 272°
Speed 8 knots
Zig? Yes (initially, ceased before firing )
Remark
AK has large guns, estimated to be four or five inch mouted forward, aft, and one each side, similar to an auxiliary cruiser.

Believe enemy vessel was carrying ammunition dye to large explosions and repeated, abnormally large explosions upon sinking. Multiple ammo crates and remains of crates seeing floating in water. One life boat spotted indicating very few crew survived the conflaguration.

Torpedo Attack No. 2 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Type MK 14
Serial No.47398
Gyro 7°L
Track 95° S
Course 193°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5201
Method Single bearing TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo prematurely detonated near target.

Tube#2
Type MK 14
Serial No.45435
Gyro 7°L
Track 95° S
Course 193°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5445
Method Single bearing TDC with spread
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2° starboard
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Admidships, Forward
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo hit caused massive explosion with a large residual fire. Believe impacted boilers.

Tube#3
Type MK 14
Serial No.47398
Gyro 7°L
Track 95° S
Course 193°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5201
Method Single bearing TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2° Port
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[]
POI Aft of stack
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Second hit on target appeared to finish the job, as she quickly lost way with another large fire starting. Target began to settle in the water quickly.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 54 ft
Course 185°
Speed 1 knot
AOB 84° S

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 3 Date: 9 November 1942 Time:1532 Location:7-42 N 135 24 E 12 Nm WNW of Palau Islands.

Description

While on submerged patrol for traffic departing and approaching North Entrance to Palau anchorage, sound made contact on lone AK, confirmed by radar. Turned to began high speed aproach. Sound later made contact on a PC type vessel, apparently a escort sent out to guide vessel in.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION
None

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No.3 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Name/Class SEIA MARU
Type AK
Tons 7590
Range 3929 yards
AOB 81° P
Bearing 022°
True Bearing 286°
Course 178°
Speed 9 knots
Zig? No
Remark
Initially unescorted, a PC type vessel soon appeared, likely sent from harbor to escort vessel in.

Torpedo Attack No. 3 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Type MK 14
Serial No.47316
Gyro 5°L
Track 97° P
Course 260°
Depth 3 ft
Speed Low
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5235
Method Single bearing
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Premature detonation

Tube#2
Type MK 14
Serial No.44316
Gyro 5°L
Track 97° P
Course 260°
Depth 3 ft
Speed Low
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5229
Method Single bearing
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Preature detonation

Tube#3
Type MK 14
Serial No.48313
Gyro 5°L
Track 97° P
Course 260°
Depth 3 ft
Speed Low
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5587
Method Single bearing
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI Aft of stack
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Missed ahead of target, target slowed and made zig due to being alerted by two previous premature explosions

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 54 ft
Course 262°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 81° P

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 4 Date: 11 November 1942 Time:0222 Location:7-05 N 131 18 E 208 NM WSW of Palau Islands.

Description

SJ contact on unescorted convoy at 9 NM. Submerged for night time periscope/radar attack.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION
GENYO MARU AO 11800 11 November 1942 0226 7-04 N 131-20 E

Verified by:

Observed via No. 2 periscope two torpedoes impact tanker admiships and aft, causing massive explosion of fuel that ripped vessel apart, leaving it a floating, burning hulk. Observed burning vessel sink less than ten minutes later.

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No.4 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Name/Class GENYO MARU
Type AO
Tons 11800
Range 974 yards
AOB 89° P
Bearing 11°
True Bearing 194°
Course 096°
Speed 9 knots
Zig? No
Remark
Large guns forward and aft visiible.

Torpedo Attack No. 4 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Type MK 14
Serial No.37316
Gyro 360°L
Track 100° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4242
Method Single bearing=TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo impact caused a massive explosion of the tankers volatile cargo.

Tube#2
Type MK 14
Serial No.37339
Gyro 360°L
Track 100° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4267
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Aft, stack.
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo impact was the "icing on the cake" causing another massive explosion and fires. Tanker left a burning, drifitng hulk.

Tube#3
Type MK 14
Serial No.37919
Gyro 360°L
Track 100° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4391
Method Single bearing-TDC spread
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2° starboard
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo prematurely detonated close to target, initially judged as a hit. Detonated possibly due to proximity of massive explosions caused by impacts of torpedoes #1 and #2 triggered the exploder .

Tube#4
Type MK 14
Serial No.30919
Gyro 360°L
Track 100° P
Course 183°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4491
Method Single bearing - TDC spread.
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 2° port
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Torpedo missed ahead of target, likely due to target slowing, losing way after first two hits. Torpedo reached end of run. No end of run explosion heard.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 54 ft
Course 185°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 89° P

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Seal SS-183 War Patrol Six Torpedo Attack No. 5 Date: 16 November 1942 Time:1614 Location: 6-58 N 133-55 E 15 NM WSW of Angaur Island, Palau Islands.

Description

While patrolling southern approaches to Palau anchorage off Angaur Island, sound detected prop noises, which upon investigation developed into a convoy of five AK, one DD departing the anchorage. First visual contact was made on smoke plumes at about 11 NM, followed by SJ contact (upon reaching radar depth) at 9 NM.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION
None

Ships Damaged
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Ships Probably Sunk
NAME/CLASS TYPE TONS DATE TIME LOCATION

None

Torpedo Attack No.5 Target No.1 Data (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class ZINBU MARU
Type AK
Tons 5186
Range 2081 yards
AOB 79° S
Bearing 332°
True Bearing 117°
Course 228°
Speed 9 knots
Zig? No
Remark
Trailing AK starboard column

Target#2
Name/Class MOMOYAMA MARU
Type AK
Tons 4037
Range 1900
AOB 90° P
Bearing 002°
True Bearing 147°
Course 228°
Speed 9 knots
Zig? No
Remark
Lead AK starboard column.

Torpedo Attack No. 5 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Type MK 14
Serial No.31311
Gyro 341 R
Track 79°S
Course 126°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.5848
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Tube#2
Type MK 14
Gyro 341 R
Track 79°S
Course 126°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.2763
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark

Tube#3
Type MK 14
Serial No.41371
Gyro 14° R
Track 103°S
Course 159°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4448
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Tube#4
Type MK 14
Gyro R
Track °S
Course °
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4763
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread °
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

(Stern Tubes)
Tube#5
Type MK 14
Serial No.61311
Gyro 021 R
Track 30°S
Course 141°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.3948
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Tube#6
Type MK 14
Gyro 021 R
Track 30°S
Course 141°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.2763
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark

Tube#7
Type MK 14
Serial No.41371
Gyro 021 R
Track 30°S
Course 141°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.4448
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0°
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Tube#8
Type MK 14
Serial No. 51339
Gyro 025 R
Track 38°S
Course 147°
Depth 3 ft
Speed High
Detonator MK 6
Serial No.1763
Method Single bearing-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread °
Detonator Contact [] Magnetic[X]
Actual Actuation Contact [] Magnetic[]
POA MOT
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[] No[X]
Remark
Observed wake run below target, but failed to detonate.Suspected torpedo ran deep, in spite of minimal depth setting.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Bow shots:

Target#1
Depth 54 ft
Course 145°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 79° S

Target#2
Depth 54 ft
Course 145°
Speed 2 knots
AOB 90° S

Stern shots.

Target#1
Depth 54 ft
Course 320°
Speed 4 knots
AOB 97° S

Target#2
Depth 54 ft
Course 314°
Speed 4 knots
AOB 110° S
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

E Major Defects and Damage

9 November 1942 - Depth Charge Attack #2

Several close depth charges during this attack caused serious damage.

1. Bulkhead damage and leaks with moderate flooding up to three feet of water in after torpedo room.

2. Stern tubes #5,#6, #7, #8, all damaged. Tubes #6,#7 were heavily damaged and left inoperable for several days, and took five days to completely repair.

3. Port prop shaft knocked out of alignment causing excessive noise for rest of the patrol and inability to make above 19.2 knots.

4.Dive planes transmission

5. Rudder transmission

6. No.1 No. 3 diesel engines

7.No. 2 and N. 4 electric engines

8. Aft batteries

9. Numerous water piping and air lines leaks throughout boat.

10. Leaks with minor flooding in conning tower

11. SJ radar cabinet

12.Hydraluic pump

13. Trim pump

14. Compressor

15.Forward batteries.

16. Port sonar head hoist

17. Bow dive planes transmission.

18. Radio Antenna

19.No.1 periscope head

20. No 2 periscope head.

Remarks

Flooding was quickly contained by a depth of 410 feet was reached during these efforts by the damage control party, before control restored.

Most damage was repaired within 72 hours. However, torpedo tubes #6 and #7 remained inoperable for some time and were not fully repaired until five days later due to heavy damage

.
F Anti-Submarine Countermeasures

The main ASW acitvity in Palau area was conducted via air patrols, which proved effective to some degree. Daily air patrols arrived shortly after dawn and patrolled the shipping approaches , while also responding to distress calls from vessels attack. After first attack and sinking on 3 November, aircraft arrived on scene shortly after, actively searching for Seal. On 16 November, aircraft responded at dawn after Seal's attack on an unescorted convoy in the night and successfully prevented follow up attacks.

Enemy sonar and depth chrge tactics were about the same as previously encountered, overall. However, the 9 November attack was as demonstrated by accuracy, persistence, and damage caused to Seal conducted by a first rate vessel, disgused as a unassuming auxillary type subchaser, sent out to escort a freighter into the Palau anchorage.

The 7 November attack on the destroyer was spoiled by alertness of target, which detected Seal as she approached at deep submergence. The attack was ultimately ineffective, but impressive nonthelesss.

G Radar

SJ Radar performance was excellent, typically detecting targets at 9-10 NM.

SD Radar performance was overall excellent as well. Typical detection of aircraft at range of 8-10 NM.

H Radio

Radio performance was normal, however it did somewhat diminish after the radio was damaged durng the depth charge attack of 9 November.

I Mines

No enemy mines were encountered on this patrol.

J Sound Gear and Conditions

Sound gear functioned well overall, with targets being passively picked up at unexpected range, estimated to be in excess of ten nautical miles, enabling contact and attacks to be made.

Sound conditions were ideal in area, likely contributing the effectiness of the enemy's depth charge attacks.

K Thermal Layers

Thermal layers were detected at depths of 90-260 feet.

L Gunnery

No gun actions took place on this patrol.

M Personnel

After six patrols, the crew is a well trained, veteran submarine crew, and performed as is expected.

A total of fourteen crew members suffered minor injuries in the depth charge attack of 9 November.

TM2 F. P. Ackerman was relieved for combat fatigue during the attack after the damage and flooding in After torpedo room. Ackerman, with solid performance until this incident was restored to duty within the week but has since been reassigned pending medical evaluation.

N. Health and Habitability

Health and Habitability of the boat was overall excellent.

O. Miles Steamed/Fuel Consumed

Miles Gallons
Fremantle to Darwin 2258 29887
Darwin to Patrol Area 1451 20545
Patrol Area to Pearl Harbor 4514 41241

P. Duration
Days
Fremantle to Darwin 6.5
Darwin to Patrol Area 3.5
Days in Patrol Area 13
Patrol Area to Pearl Harbor 14
Days submerged 11
Total days on patrol 37

Q Navigational Aids

No Navigational aids were observed in patrol area.

R Enemy Radar and Radio Countermeasures

No known countermeasures to radar were encountered. Radio countermeasures were the usual attempts of jamming, masqeruading as Allied operators, but none were successful.

S Factors in Endurance

Torpedoes 0
Fuel 32,931 gallons
Food 24 days

Reason for termination of patrol: All torpedoes expended.

T Remarks

Torpedo malfunctions continue to plague Seal after six patrols. The most noted problem is premature detonations of torpedoes, followed by torpedoes running deep in spite of minimal depth settings, preventing hits.

Five out of twenty two torpedoes functioned properly on this patrol.

Upon reaching Pearl Harbor, Seal was ordered to San Francisco for a much overhaul and refit, for after six straight patrols, her material condition, while adequate leaves much to be desired for a fighting vessel. With regret, after six patrols at the helm, this was my final patrol in command of Seal, as have been assigned to new construction.

Nicely done. Too bad about the TM2. Hopefully you get a nice shiney new boat.

Been having really good odds with the MK14's in Apr '43. No prematures, only a few duds, but I've been focusing on night attacks, making slow speed a little more easy to work with, without all those pesky lookouts spotting the wake.

Bubblehead1980

10-13-21, 11:02 PM

Nicely done. Too bad about the TM2. Hopefully you get a nice shiney new boat.

Been having really good odds with the MK14's in Apr '43. No prematures, only a few duds, but I've been focusing on night attacks, making slow speed a little more easy to work with, without all those pesky lookouts spotting the wake.

Thanks, it was an interesting patrol to wrap up first year of the war. Glad to see one of my goals of making the early war challenging and interesting to play was accomplished. Since I am not just running patrol to test, get to enjoy it more.

Yes, the Torpedoman going manic was unexpected. I assume you saw the whole write up did about it, only second time have ever noticed a crewmembers morale to go to manic. First time he was also injured and never came out of the manic state, died before reached Pearl Harbor.

Well, not really losing the boat. I edit the files and start with a new captain, clear out formers tonnage etc when appropriate. Seal got a new CO in January 1943 so switching it up next patrol. She was seriously damaged when rammed by a freighter on 16 November 1942. Bent the periscope back 90 degrees, knocked the second out out of its housing, japanese paint all over the sheers. Went on to Pearl Harbor, then to Mare Island for refit. So in the sim during same time period, I had to manually refit my boat due to the conning tower upgrade bug , so did not lose radar etc. Have it all refitted and ready to go. Decided to change it up and started a career in Balao in Fall 1943 Ill be back to the Seal career though, want to try and make it to end of war in a Salmon, since started in December 1941.

I am surprised torpedoes are that reliable in April 43, but it happens. Glad to hear you are working on the night attacks, by the time 1944 rolls around you'll be ready to get inside the convoys and attack lol

4H_Ccrashh

10-14-21, 10:44 AM

Lost my first boat, restarted Cavite campaign.

I've got my S-37 boat back. On the way to Convoy College we received a radio message of a landing at Vigan, Philippines.

We were close by and went to check it out.

20 some miles out, submerged and did a sound check. Massive hydrophone contact to the east.

Surfaced and am very carefully making my approach to Vigan. No visual sightings.

Its a bright sunny day 0950 with calm seas.

I told the Wife she is a SH4 widow for a bit.

I'm going to run the entire approach , attack and withdraw in 1:1 time.

No time skip.

Bubblehead1980

10-14-21, 12:32 PM

4H_Ccrashh

10-14-21, 06:59 PM

Bubblehead1980

10-14-21, 08:21 PM

First off let me say that my wife is not thrilled being a Silent Hunter 4 Widow.

I am using her laptop to send this message. I can't ALT-TAB my computer to send this message. It would corrupt the game.

All I can do is pause the game and let the computer sit until tomorrow.

First thing,, The amphib force at Vigan, Philippines is huge!

When I got within visual range the smoke on the horizon looked like Fleet Week in New York.

Nice work Bubblehead!!!

It reminds me of the old Looney Tunes cartoon where the Coyote chases the Roadrunner through a pipe that gets smaller.

They both exit the small end of the pipe miniaturized.

So they run back through the pipe the other way, expecting to get bigger.

The Roadrunner comes out big. The Coyote is still small.

The still small Coyote grabs the big Roadrunner's leg, realizes how small he is and holds up a sign saying,,,,

"Now What?"

That's how you feel when you realize you are one sub attacking all that.

Very cool, adds to the overwhelming thoughts that must have been going through the Asiatic Fleet that had to face the enemy juggernaut.

But hey!,

After all this is TMO you know its going to be tough.

Again Thank You Bubblehead!!

Now the update.

Six hours and twenty minutes into the approach. I have managed to get through the anti sub outer screen.

As soon as I am well clear I will come to periscope depth to see what's up.

I am using not externals or map update.

lol most significant others do not (like being SH widows, they don't get it). My girlfriend does not get it either. Although, I did persuade her to read "Thunder Below" (which she currently is) and says she is enjoying it. Perhaps, there is hope.

Ah yea, it is unfortunate how alt+tab corrupts the game. One thing I noticed it does is make the enemy]s sensors super capable, believe it messes with the thermal layers and how it affects their sonar, even low skilled escorts are after tabbing out, lets us not forget the weather issues and CO2 bug.

Make sure sleep timer is off your computer if you leave it paused, hate for it to go to sleep and lose your progress. I usually just find a spot where not likely to contact enemy, dive dive and leave sim running real time, come back to it when home. Of course, I have a PC I have set up pretty much just for SH 4, so does not interfere with other tasks. I save before diving, in case power goes out etc.

Yes, the Vigan landing force is huge. I tried to recreate it best as could within parameters of the sim. I used orders of battle, sailing lists to build the landing force. Cool part was almost every type of vessel listed was available in the game or at minimum has a decent representative. Let me know if you see any Daihatsu Landing Craft, I do not recall for sure, but believe I added them to the landing making runs up and down the beach. In testing, one of the invasions I caught some on surface at dusk, 20 MM guns are quite effective on them as is of course, the deck gun.

With map contacts and cams? You are speaking my language lol To me, that is when SH 4 is the most fun, the most challenge. There is a thrill to it when sink ships or after put all the time conning boat into position, plotting speed course etc of target. Fire and torpedoes malfunction or you miss or maybe two out of four hit. The anticipation of watching the stop watch, waiting for torpedoes to hit. Really is a lot of fun, usually lol. I switch back and forth, sometimes just need a "lighter" experience so may keep map contacts on, but cams off, depends on the mood.

You're welcome, glad are enjoying the update.

Bubblehead1980

10-15-21, 08:33 PM

TMO 2.5 Update with Patch (patch is in development, should be released in next week or so)

100 difficulty Cams off Contacts on , for this patrol.

War Patrol Report
USS Skate SS-305
War Patrol One
26 September-11 November 1943

https://i.postimg.cc/BnC0BKy4/combatinsignia.png (https://postimages.org/)

A. Prologue

Skate was laid down at the Mare Island Naval Shipyard , California, 1 August 1942, and launched on 4 March 1943, sponsored by Mrs. Ethel L. Shamer, wife of Captain George P. Shamer, Supply Officer of the Mare Island Naval Shipyard and commissioned on 15 April with Lieutenant Commander Irvin T. Ryan in command. Following shakedown and training, SKATE arrived Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, T.H. on 12 September from Mare Island. Conducted voyage repairs and conducted pre-patrol training 17-22 September. Twenty Four MK 14-2 Torpedoes with modified MK 6-5 contact exploders loaded, along with provisions. Ready for sea 26 September 1943.

B. Narrative

26 September

0900 Departed Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. for Lifeguard Station off Wake Island via Midway. Task Force 14 (Six CV, two CA, three CL , twenty four DD) scheduled to strike Wake Island on five and six October. Skate has been assigned the first ever formal lifeguard assignment during this strikes. Upon completion of duties, will proceed to patrol area in Caroline Islands, near Truk Atoll.

1130 Trim Dive.

1155 Surfaced.

27 September

En route Midway.

28 September

En route Midway.

29 September

En route Midway.

30 September

0815 Docked at Midway Island.

1230 Refueling completed, departed Midway for Wake Islands.

1402 Trim Dive.

1427 Increased depth to 500 ft.

1439 Boat depth: 500 ft.

1435 Periscope depth.

1450 Surfaced.

1 October

En route Wake Island.

0013 Received Flash Traffic ordering to Assume Lifeguard Station by 0300 5 October.

2 October

En route Wake Island

3 October

0730 Position 21-40 N 171-6 E 323 NM NE Wake Island.

0735 Daily morning trim dive.

0737:24 Boat at depth of 90 feet. Sound check detected noise of torpedoes inbound bearing 055 degrees. Obviously we were approached and fired on by a enemy submarine just as we submerged, avoiding the incoming torpedoes.

0738:03 Torpedoes missed, passed above SKATE.

0738:44 Sound detected submerged submarine bearing 102 , closing. Went to silent running and 300 feet, turned to course 180 degrees.

0844 Lost sound contact with submarine. Resumed course 240 degrees , submerged. Maintained silent running.

1304 Sound has possible submarine contact bearing 120, distant.

Will remain submerged until night fall, will make up time with high speed run upon surfacing.

2000 Surfaced.

4 October

0830 50 NM NE Wake Island. Submerged to avoid possible detection.

2030 Surfaced.

5 October

0030 Arrived lifeguard station 19-10 N 166-32 E 10 NM WSW Wake Island.

0100 Cut engines and lying to with period sound and SJ sweeps.

0445 Submerged before dawn, 7.5 NM SSE of Wake Island.

0708 Periscope Depth. Extended SD mast. Multiple SD contacts8 NM closing. Assumed to be inbound strike.

0709 5 NM off Wake, large AK visible inside the lagoon.

0710 Single engine aircraft (TBF Avenger) spotted bearing 215 degrees.

0711 Witnessed mid air collision between two F6F Hellcats. No survivors, searched area.

0712 Large amounts of AA fire visible from Wake AA guns and the anchored AK.

0716 AK burning and sinking in lagoon after numerous bomb hits from dive bombers.

0735 As first wave began to turn for home, witnessed TBF on fire. Surfaced and began closing bearing at flank speed. Plane continued on, no messages regarding ditching air crew.

1007 Second wave detected on SD radar 11 NM.

1012 Smoke marker for downed air crew. Closed at flank speed. AA guns manned, enemy fighters in area.

1018 RESCUE NO.1
Rescued downed F6F pilot from water. 19-11 N 166-32 E 10 NM SSW of Wake Island.

LT O.T. Murray, USN. Independence CVL-22

1025 RESCUE NO.2

Rescued crew of TBF from life raft at 19-10 N 166-33 E 10 NM SSW of Wake Island.

Rescued- All crew were from Essex CV-9
LT. (jg) L.A. Fontana, USN.
ACOM R.W. Lawson, USN.
ARM2c P.R. Willecker, USN.

1026 Closed island for reports of downed TBF crew.

1141 PC and single engine patrol craft (JAKE) from Wake hunting for SKATE in area occupied during morning strikes.

1143 SD contact at 7 NM closing. Submerged

1233 SD Antenna extended. Two SD contacts at 5 and 6 NM steady range. Assisting PC in search for SKATE.

1309 SD contacts, multiple. 12 NM closing. Third wave inbound.

1312 PC attacked by F6F Hellcats , set afire.

1316 Report of downed pilot. Surfaced. Flank speed to reported position.

1323 No downed aircrew in reported location. No smoke marker visible, searching.

1324 While searching spotted small PC dead in water, bow up to pilot house submerged, damaged by air attack. Called General Quarters- Battle Surface Gun Action.

1326 Opened fired with four inch gun. 4800 yards

1329 Hit set off large explosion on target. Ceased fire.Target is sinking. Crew in life raft.

1330 SD contact 6 NM closing fast. Dive!

1336 165 ft. Secured General Quarters.

1350 Periscope Depth. SD sweep. All clear. Target sunk, debris field visible. Small Aux Subchaser (100 tons, estimated) sunk 19-13 N 166-33 E.

1609 SD has another wave, inbound. Surfaced.

1612 Sighted TBF F6F SB2C SBD aircraft inbound to Wake Island.

1616 Surfaced to search for survivors at crash site of SB2C Helldiver observed crashing at 1614

1618 Under heavy fire from shore batteries in spite of being 6 NM away from Wake. After a couple close splashes, submerged again until opened the range from island.

1713 Surfaced. Searched area, no survivors.

1930 With strikes over for the day, headed west away from Wake Island for battery charge before closing to assume new lifeguard station for day two of strikes.

6 October

0500 On Lifeguard Station 10 NM NE of Wake Island.

0711 SD contacts, multiple. First wave inbound.

1030 SD contacts. Second wave inbound.

1400 SD contacts, third wave inbound.

2100 Fires still burning on Wake Island visible from 8 NM.

2110 SD contacts, night time air raid inbound.

2120 Explosions visible on Wake Island.

2200 Raid cleared area, received no reports of downed air crew. Surfaced for last sweep over Wake Island area before departing for patrol area.

2233 RESCUE NO.3.

Rescued downed TBF aircrewman from water at 19-14 N 166-37 E 7000 yards south of Wake Island.

Rescued:

ARM2c E.Z. Leskovitz, USN. Lexington CV-16.

2240 Closing beach with decks awash, spotted possible downed aircrew in waters.

2301 RESCUE NO.4-Rescued downed TBF aircrew in raft at 19-14 N 166-36 E 6000 yards south of Wake Island.

Rescued:

CAP T.G. Haut, USN. VT-16, Lexington CV-16.
AOM1c W.S. Cusarinni, USN.Lexington CV-16.
ARM2c Leskovitz, USN. Lexington CV-16.-Rescued at 2233 from water in life preserver, part of this crew, seperated during bail out.

2321 RESCUE NO 5 Rescued downed TBF pilot from water in life preserver. 19-15 N 166-36 E 5400 yards south of Wake Island.Searched area for other crewman as were seperated after water landing.

Rescued:
Ens. H.H. Letford, USN. Cowpens CVL-25

7 October

0032 RESCUE NO.6

Rescued downed aviator, F6F from water at 19-17 N 166-35 E 6000 yards south Wake Island. Downed during afternoon strike, lost raft during low level bail out. Tides brought him in close to beach.

Rescued:

Lt. (jg) S.D. Just, USNR. Yorktown CV-10. Serious injuries.

0100 Decided to remain through the night to search area given number of unreported downed aircrew.

0309 Rescued downed SBD crew in raft at 19-1 N 166-35 E 17.5 NM South of Wake Island. Aircraft part of second strike wave on 5 October, ditched due to damage from AA fire.

Rescued:

LCDR. I.R. Byrd, USN. Yorktown CV-10
ARM1c C.C. Yosten, USN. Yorktown CV-10

Condition of both crew is well, considering over twenty four hours in an raft in open ocean.

0526 RESCUE NO. 7

Rescued downed SBD crew in raft at 19-33 NE 166-32 E 16.5 NM NE of Wake Island. Crew ditched en route back to carriers after first wave on morning of 7 October due to fuel exhaustion and battle damage.

Rescued:

Lt. L.L Peters, USN. Belleau Wood CVL-24
ACRM P.Q. Delmonico, USN. Belleau Wood CVL-24

0700 Released from Lifeguard Station, Set course for Midway to deliver downed aircrews before heading to patrol area.

See Air Strike Section for information on air strikes.

8 October

En route Midway

9 October

En route Midway

10 October

1215 Docked at Midway.

1220-1600 Disembarked passengers, refueled and reprovisioned.

1605 Departed Midway for patrol area.

11 October

En route patrol area

12 October

En route patrol area.

13 October

En route patrol area.

1212 SD contact 8 NM closing. 190 NM E of Wake Island. Submerged.

1531 Surfaced.

1640 SD contact 9 NM steady.

1644 SD contact visually identified as H6K MAVIS flying boat, surely from Wake Island. Contact began rapidly closing. Range 7 NM. Dive! Emergency depth, 200 feet.

1645 Depth: 220 feet. Multiple large explosions above, astern.

2015 Surfaced.

14 October

En route patrol area

15 October

En route patrol area

0820 Sighted surfaced Gato Class submarine. Position 14-12 N 162-23 E bearing 330 Course 085 Speed 16 knots. Unable to exchange recognition signals.

16 October

En route patrol area

17 October

0400 Entered patrol area-Truk.

1952 SJ contacts at bearing 334-345 degrees 9 NM. 7-41 N 152-57 E 63 NM East of Truk Atoll. Set course to intercept.

1955 Many tall pips on scope. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1956 Silhouette of pagoda masts of BB visible bearing 005 range 8 NM.

2000 Submerged for attack.

2014 Inside forward screen at 300 feet, began ascending to periscope depth. As passed 250 feet, pinging began , enemy DD detected SKATE and began closing fast. Ordered 450 feet, Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running.

2015 DD passing above, splashes heard.

2015:44 DC explosions not close.

2025 Depth. 505 ft. Multiple vessels hunting SKATE.

2100 Lost contact with enemy.

2314 Surfaced.

18 October

No contacts

19 October

No contacts

20 October

1614 SD contact 11 NM closing. Submerged.

1857 Surfaced

18 October

Patrolled east of Truk

19 October

Patrolled east of Truk

1121 SD contact 11 NM. Submerged

1300 Surfaced

20 October

Patrolled east of Truk

21 October

Patrolled east of Truk.

22 October

0958 SJ contacts bearing 002 9 NM. 7-24 N 153 43 E

0959 Smoke sighted bearing 002. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1000 Convoy. Estimated course 061 degrees. Estimated speed 9 knots.

1004 Submerged for attack.

1010 Depth 400 ft. Closing trarget track at high speed.

1030 Periscope depth. Convoy is 5000 yards bearing 085, course 061 speed 9 knots. One DD leading two AK.

1052 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1) Fired tubes 1,2,3

1052:30 Torpedo Impact!

1052:340 Torpedo impact!

1054 Adjusted solution. Fired tube 4.

1055:04 Torpedo impact! Torpedo hit forward of fore mast, near bow. Target rapidly took down angle by bow.

1056:00 SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons sunk 7-21 N 153-45 E. DD (Wakatake Class) closing fast. Pinging. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent Running. Ordered 425 feet.

1057 Pinging.

1104 On second pass, DD dropped pattern, splashes audible.

1105 DC explosions, none close.

1114 Boat depth: 450 feet. Two charges, close. Increased depth to 500 ft.

1118 DD passing above.

1119 DC explosions.

1216 Last DC explosion. Target searching area, appears to have lost contact with SKATE.

1310 Secured General Quarters. Maintained Silent Running. Depth: 500 ft.

1500 Periscope depth.

1510 Secured Silent Running. Surfaced for end around down last known course to regain contact.

1639 Running down course 051 spotted smoke estimated range 13 NM.

1642 SJ contact bearing 358. 9 NM. 7-41 N 154-12 E 30 NM south of Oroluk Island, Caroline Islands. Moving ahead for night surface attack.

1925 Convoy sailing along east coast of Oroluk Island. Another contact joined them, presumably an escort. SJ range 9 NM.

2035 Believe convoy rounded Oroluk Island or made a quick stopover. Now on course to SW, believe this was a ruse of sorts. Racing ahead at flank speed for night attack.

2311 Battery Recharge completed. Position 8 NM ahead of convoy.

2312 General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface.

2347 Convoy on course 214 speed 9 knots.

2357 Readied all stern tubes.

23 October

0009 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2) Fired Tubes 7,8 at Target #1 (AK) and tubes 9,10 at Target #2 (DD) -Night Surface attack.

0010:15 Torpedo Impact! (Target #1)

0010:20 Torpedo Impact! (Target #1)

0011:02 Torpedo Impact! (Target #2)

0011:07 Torpedo Impact! (Target#2)

0011:30 DD demolished by two torpedo hits, drifting. AK appears severely damaged, likely sinking.

0013 Wakatake Class 1200 tons Destroyer sunk 7-43 N 153-55 E.

0015 WATANABE MARU 3600 tons sunk 7-44 N 153-55 E

0030 Secured General Quarters.

1354 SD contact 14 NM closing

1355 SD contact at 10 NM. Submerged

1550 Surfaced.

23 October

Patrolled East of Truk

24 October

0942 SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged.

1155 Surfaced.

25 October

1734 SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged.

1736 Two explosions, believe plane dropped depth charges.

1055 Surfaced

26 October

Patrolled East of Truk

27 October

Patrolled East of Truk

28 October

Patrolled East of Truk

29 October

Patrolled East of Truk

30 October

Patrolled East of Truk

31 October

1606 SJ contacts bearing 359 10 NM. 7-28 N 153-12 E 78 NM E of Truk.

1607 Sighted smoke bearing 352, possible convoy. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1720 Submerged for attack.

1750 Periscope depth. Convoy shifted track, right on top of SKATE. Turned course 000 increased speed at 450 feet to open range.

1801 As SKATE ascended passed 100 feet to periscope depth, heard depth charge explosions. The escort was alerted, but was close. At periscope depth, escort was 1000 yards away in opposite direction. Made snap shot on large AK.

1806 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO .3 ) Fired tubes 7,8,9, 10 at large AK. Escort closing fast 800 yards. Ordered 500 feet, emergency!

1810 Torpedoes missed!

1815 Depth charges.

1820 Depth charges.

1825 Depth 500 ft.

1836 Very close depth charges , boat shaken. Damage reported (See damage section) Depth 500 ft.

1840 Another close charge at depth 550 ft.

2000 Escort appears to have lost contact. SKATE at 585 feet.

2139 Periscope Depth. No.1 and No.2 periscopes damaged, inoperable.

2144 Surfaced. End around. Secured General Quarters.

1 November

0025 Regained SJ contact with convoy. General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface.

0059 Spotted convoy, escort not present, apparently had not caught up with convoy yet. Taking advantage of this, ordered all forward tubes made ready. Moved in for surface torpedo attack.

0135 Tracking large AK estimated 8000-1000 tons. The "Wild Ride" began here..

0140 At 2200 yards, as SKATE prepared to fire target made sudden zig, putting it on course towards SKATE with a zero AOB. Unable to maneuver in time and no desiring a dive, decided to fire down the throat on the large freighter, ordered a turn to bring target to zero AOB.

0141 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO 4) Fired tubes 1,2,3 "down the throat" of on rushing AK.

0142 Torpedoes missed, barely. One observed to skim so close along the hull, the fish and AK "traded paint". This incident somewhat made us long for a torpedo had a magnetic detonator. SKATE was now maneuvering out of the AK's way at full power. Suddenly, SKATE illuminated by searchlights from the close AK and others followed. SKATE came under heavy machine gun fire, with a few hits on the boat. Large shell splashes from deck guns began landing from the five vessels all within 1000-4000 yards of SKATE. Ordered a dive to avoid risk of being holed by heavy guns.

0144:21 As SKATE passed 70 ft, two torpedo impacts were clearly heard. Apparently two of out missed torpedoes found someone to land.

0200 Surfaced. Came under heavy gun fire from 5000 yards. New SJ pip, believing by lone bearing escort racing in, responding to distress signals. Upon surfacing, also observed large AK sinking by stern, presumed to be the AK hit by our two torpedoes at 0144.

0204 Large AK tenatively identified as KOBAYASHI MARU class 9980 tons, sunk 7-31 N 152 18 E 30 NM E of Truk Lagoon.

0238 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.5) Having maneuvered back in for firing, with escort closing the scene at high speed from just 4000 yards to starboard, fired tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6 at two targets.

0239:25 Torpedo impact!

0239:30 Torpedo impact!

0239:35 Torpedo impact!

0239:40 Torpedo impact! SEIA MARU 7390 tons decimated by four torpedo hits with third and fourth setting off massive explosions.

0239:50 Torpedo impact!

0239:56 Torpedo impact! Two torpedoes impacted smaller AK AKITA MARU. Large fires observed and vessel lost its way.

0240 SKATE under heavy gunfire away from other AK in convoy. Escort at 2900 yards closing, firing star shells. SKATE rushing away on surface dodging shell splashes. The escort, identified as a W-19 MS class began to fire its deck gun but soon fell behind and ceased fire, losing contact with SKATE.

0254 Escort ceased pursuit, turned back to remnants of convoy. Three torpedoes remaining, reload underway.

0257 SEIA MARU 7590 tons sunk at 7-30 N 152-16 E.

0259 AKITA MARU 3936 tons sunk at 7-30 N 152-16 E

0300 Analysis of situation showed that could not regain position and complete reload in time to two remaining vessels in convoy before they entered Truk's east pass, as we were now just 15 NM away. Anticipating a massive ASW response from Truk at dawn, decided to withdraw and save three remaining torpedoes for other targets.

0305 Secured General Quarters and set course to SE at 18 knots.

0700 Submerged at dawn for crew rest and to complete repairs.

0900 No. 2 (Attack) Periscope restored to operation. Repairs on No.1 (observation continue)

1008 SD contact 9 NM closing Submerged.

1902 Distant prop sounds bearing 211.

1909 Surfaced. Pursuit course to close contact.

1915 Sighted smoke bearing 001

1917 SJ contact bearing 355 9 NM 6-59 N 154-16 E

1952 Directly astern of convoy on course 245. Trailed until night fall for anticipated zig.

2037 Convoy zigged. New course 314 degrees. Began end around

2124 General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface. End around, completed, closing for attack.

2155 Bow tubes made ready for firing.

2206:58 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 6) Fired tubes 1,2,3. All torpedoes expended.

2207:10 Torpedo #2 went erratic with jog to starboard, did not track properly.

2208:05 Torpedo impact!

2207:10 Torpedo Impact! Large explosion amidships of target. Heavy smoke visible. Escort searched, but did not locate SKATE. The small AK aft did point her spotlight in our direction and fire machine guns briefly as SKATE sped away into the night.

2215: KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk at 7-07 N 153-50 E.

2225 Secured General Quarters. All torpedoes expended, set course for for Pearl Harbor.

2 November

0150 No.1 (Observation) Periscope repairs completed.

1924 SD contact 12 NM closing. Submerged.

2000 Surfaced

3 November

En route Pearl Harbor

4 November

En route Pearl Harbor

5 November

En route Pearl Harbor

En route Pearl Harbor

6 November

En route Pearl Harbor

7 November

En route Pearl Harbor

8 November

En route Pearl Harbor

9 November

En route Pearl Harbor

10 November

En route Pearl Harbor

11 November

1901 Arrived Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, T.H. Terminated war patrol.

C. Weather

Weather on this patrol was generally favorable during transit and in operational areas, typically with calm seas and clear skies. A few squalls in Truk area were encountered but quickly passed.

D. Attack Data

Torpedo Data

Twenty-four MK 14 Mod Two torpedoes with new MK 6 Mod Five contact exploders from Submarine Base, P.H. Torpedo Shop on board.

Number of Torpedoes Fired :24

Hits:18

Misses: 6

Malfunctioning/Erratic torpedoes: 1 (Gyro failure caused a miss in TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 6- Torpedo #2)

Number of Vessels sunk by torpedo: 7

Total tonnage sunk by torpedo. 40,360 tons.

Torpedo Attack Data

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 1
Date 22 October 1943 Time 10 Location 7-22 N 153-45 E 123 NM East of Truk

Description

SJ contact at 9 NM developed into two AK one escort convoy.

Type of attack Periscope, submerged. No.2 (Attack) periscope, bow tubes 1,2,3,4.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS SHAJIMA MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 6540
DATE 22 October 1943
TIME 1056
LOCATION 7-21 N 253-45 E 120 NM East of Truk
VERIFIED BY

Observed three torpedoes hit target via No.2 (Attack) periscope. Observed target rapidly sink by the bow.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 1 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class SHAJIMA MARU
Type AK
Tons 6450
Course 061
Speed 9.5 kts
Range 1200 yards
Bearing 004
True Bearing 152
AOB 90
Remark
Mid sized AK with large gun mounted forward.

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 1 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 63479
Gyro 351 L
Track 103 P
Course 139
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 7876
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 8 ft
Firing Method Individual bearing-Periscope-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Uknown []
Remark
Impacted as aimed. Target on fire and slowed.

Tube#2
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 63491
Gyro 351 L
Track 103 P
Course 139
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 7821
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 8 ft
Firing Method Individual bearing-Periscope-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA Mast, Forward
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Torpedo missed just forward of bow about 6-10 yards due to target slowing and evasive action just before/after torpedo #1 impacted.

Tube#3
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 71479
Gyro 351 L
Track 103 P
Course 139
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 7896
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 8 ft
Firing Method Individual bearing-Periscope-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA Mast, Aft
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Mast, aft
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Impacted as aimed, caused large secondary fire, vessel took list to port.

Tube#4
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 64313
Gyro 0 L
Track 355 P
Course 135
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 7898
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 8 ft
Firing Method Individual bearing-Periscope-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Forward of mast, bow.
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Impacted as aimed. Large hole visible near bow, vessels quickly took angle down by the bow and sinking by the bow in less than two minutes.

Own Ship Data (at firing)
Depth 64 ft
Course 145
Speed 2 knots
AOB 90

================================================== ================================================== ==============

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 2
Date October 1943 Time Location 7-45N 153-55 E 32 NM SSE of Oroluk, Caroline Islands.

Description

After prolonged chase and end around following Torpedo Attack No.1, attacked remaining AK and DD from convoy is SKATE's first ever night surface torpedo attack.

Type of attack Night Surface-Torpedo via Aft Target Bearing Transmitted (TBT), stern tubes 7,8,9,10.

Ships Sunk

NAME/CLASS WATANABE MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 3600
DATE 23 October 1943
TIME 0009
LOCATION 7-44N 143-55 E 32 NM SSE Oroluk, Caroline Islands.
VERIFIED BY
Fired while submarine surfaced, observed torpedoes hit target. Observed vessel sink.

NAME/CLASS Wakatake Class
TYPE DD
TONS 1215
DATE 23 October 1943
TIME 0013
LOCATION 7-44N 143-55 E
VERIFIED BY
Fired while submarine surfaced, observed two torpedoes hit and demolish the destroyer, which quickly sank by the stern.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 2 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class WATANABE MARU
Type AK
Tons 3600
Course 214
Speed 9.5 kts
Range yards 2700
Bearing 152
True Bearing 098
AOB 62 S
Remark
Smaller AK with European lines and build, possibly captured by Japanese. Appears unarmed, but riding low in water.

Target#2

Name/Class Wakatake Class
Type DD
Tons 1215
Course 214
Speed 9.5 kts
Range 2500 yards
Bearing 186
True Bearing 132
AOB 94 S
Remark
Older destroyer, apparently pressed into service as escort.

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 2 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#7
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 63800
Gyro 341 L
Track 107 S
Course 287
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8033
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 3 ft
Firing Method Single Bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
None

Tube#8
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 63801
Gyro 341 L
Track 107 S
Course 287
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8034
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 3 ft
Firing Method Single Bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No []
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Torpedo impact started a fire and caused a list to starboard.

Tube#9
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 63802
Gyro 19 R
Track 73 S
Course 325
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8035
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 3 ft
Firing Method Single Bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Stern
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No []
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Impacted on destroyer's stern nearly severed it. Set off depth charge racks and throwers in massive series of explosions.

Tube#10
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 63805
Gyro 19 R
Track 73 S
Course 325
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8037
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 3 ft
Firing Method Single Bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Aft of amidships, stern.
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No []
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Torpedo impact effectively demolished the rest of the ship, setting off a series of internal explosions. Destroyer quickly lost its way and went down by the stern.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced
Course 305
Speed 1.5 kts
AOB 62 S (Target#1) 95 S (Target #2)

================================================== ========================================

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 3
Date 31 October 1943 Time 1806 Location 7-36 N 152-52 E 65 NM East of Truk.

Description

SJ contact on convoy heading for Truk. Ended around until ahead and submerged for periscope attack. Upon observation , convoy track shifted and would overtake SKATE. Went deep with speed burst to move off track for stern shot. As ascended back to periscope depth, convoy apparently detected skate as a depth charge explosion was heard. At periscope depth, fired snap shot at closest AK from 1700 yards.

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 3 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class SANYO MARU (See Remark)
Type AK
Tons 4252
Course 261
Speed 5.5 kts, zigging
Range 1700 yards
Bearing 180
True Bearing 177
AOB 86
Remark
True identity unknown, this was a rapid snap shot with stern tubes, did not have time to study target due to the dynamic nature of this attack.

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 3 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#7
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 80020
Gyro 03 R
Track 11 S
Course 185
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 6440
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 6 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-Periscope-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI -----
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No []
Malfunction Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Gyro [] Uknown []
Remark
Torpedo missed. Likely due to evasive movements by target. Did not observe visually as SKATE was avoiding depth charge attack below periscope depth.

Tube#8
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 80025
Gyro 03 R
Track 11 S
Course 185
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 6445
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 6 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-Periscope-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI -----
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No []
Malfunction Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Gyro [] Uknown []
Remark
Torpedo missed. Likely due to evasive movements by target. Did not observe visually as SKATE was avoiding depth charge attack below periscope depth.

Tube#9
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 80030
Gyro 03 R
Track 11 S
Course 185
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 6450
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 6 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-Periscope-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI -----
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No []
Malfunction Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Gyro [] Uknown []
Remark
Torpedo missed. Likely due to evasive movements by target. Did not observe visually as SKATE was avoiding depth charge attack below periscope depth.

Tube#10
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 80035
Gyro 03 R
Track 11 S
Course 185
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 6455
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 6 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-Periscope-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI -----
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No []
Malfunction Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Gyro [] Unknown []
Remark
Torpedo missed. Likely due to evasive movements by target. Did not observe visually as SKATE was avoiding depth charge attack below periscope depth.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth: 64 ft
Course 001
Speed 2 knots
AOB 86 S

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 4
Date 1 November 1943 Time 0141 Location 7-31 N 152 18 E 30 NM E of Truk

Description

Follow up night surface torpedo attack to ATTACK NO.3 during afternoon. Convoy had proceeded on while escort remained behind, believing SKATE to still be submerged.

onvoy heading for Truk. Ended around until ahead and submerged for periscope attack. Upon observation , convoy track shifted and would overtake SKATE. Went deep with speed burst to move off track for stern shot. As ascended back to periscope depth, convoy apparently detected skate as a depth charge explosion was heard. At periscope depth, fired snap shot at closest AK from 1700 yards.

Ships Sunk
NAME/CLASS KOBAYSHI MARU (?)
TYPE AK
TONS 9980
DATE 1 November 1943
TIME 0204
LOCATION 7-31 N 152-18 E 30 NM E of Truk
VERIFIED BY
Heard torpedo hits when submerged. When surfaced, witnessed vessel down by stern and ultimately sinking at 0204 hours.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 4 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class Unknown possible
Type AK
Tons 6000-8000 ton
Course 264
Speed 6-8 kts, zigging.
Range 1800 yards
Bearing 0
True Bearing 177
AOB 0
Remark
True identity of initial target unknown, but was possibly SEIA MARU (sunk in ATTACK NO. 5). Torpedoes were fired down the throat as freighter rapidly closed, possibly to ram SKATE. Due to coming under gunfire, SKATE submerged and as passed 70 ft at 0144:21, heard two torpedo impacts, but were on another member of the convoy as hitting time for initial target had passed. Upon surfacing, found a large AK similar to KOBYASHI MARU 9980 tons sinking and witnessed her sinking at 0204.

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 4 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 66780
Gyro 0
Track 0
Course 177
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8540
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 3 feet
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA Bow
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ----
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Uknown []
Remark
Observed wakes of torpedo run along side, torpedo no doubt skimming the hull of target. Target's expert evasive movements saved her.

Tube#2
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 66798
Gyro 0
Track 0
Course 177
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8111
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 3 feet
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA Bow
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ----
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Uknown []
Remark
Observed wakes of torpedo run along side, torpedo no doubt skimming the hull of target. Target's expert evasive movements saved her.

Tube#1
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 74456
Gyro 0
Track 0
Course 177
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 7003
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 3 feet
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA Bow
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI -----
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Observed wakes of torpedo run along side, torpedo no doubt skimming the hull of target. Target's expert evasive movements saved her.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced
Course 180
Speed 4 kts
AOB 0

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 5
Date 1 November 1943 Time 0238 Location 7-30 N 152-16 E 20 NM E of Truk

Description

After Attack No.4, pulled ahead of four remaining AK in convoy, closing in on safety of Truk's east pass for a follow up night surface-torpedo attack.
Escort was detected on radar, with bearing rapidly changing, likely rushing in after last attack.

Type of attack Night Surface-Torpedo with Forward TBT and bow torpedoes.

Ships Sunk

NAME/CLASS SEIA MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 7590
DATE 1 November 1943
TIME 0257
LOCATION 7-30 N 152-16 E 19 NM East of Truk
VERIFIED BY
Fired while submarine surfaced, observed four torpedoes hit target, demolishing it. Later, Observed vessel sink.

Ships Sunk

NAME/CLASS AKITA MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 3936
DATE 1 November 1943
TIME 0259
LOCATION 7-30 N 152-16 E 19 NM East of Truk
VERIFIED BY
Fired while submarine surfaced. Observed two torpedoes hit target. Later, observed vessel sink.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 5 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class SEIA MARU
Type AK
Tons 7590
Course 264
Speed 5-7 kts, zigging.
Range 2100 yards
Bearing 015
True Bearing 177
AOB 62 S
Remark
Large AK with guns mounted forward, aft.

Target#2
Name/Class AKITA MARU
Type AK
Tons 3936
Course 264
Speed 5-7 kts, zigging.
Range 1980 yards
Bearing 000
True Bearing 164
AOB 88 S
Remark
Mid sized AK riding low in water. Guns ivsible forward and aft.

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 5 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 75005
Gyro 08 R
Track 21 S
Course 030
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8833
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 10 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Solid hit caused targe to "jump" out of the water.

Tube#2
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 75225
Gyro 08 R
Track 21 S
Course 030
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8233
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 10 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Solid hit just forward of stack. Smoke likely from internal fire visible.

Tube#3
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 71005
Gyro 08 R
Track 21 S
Course 030
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 6833
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 10 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Four hits decimated target, last two hits induced massive secondary explosions.

Tube#4
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 65005
Gyro 08 R
Track 21 S
Course 030
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 7833
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 10 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Uknown []
Remark
Four hits decimated target, last two hits induced massive secondary explosions.

Tube#5
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 75008
Gyro 0
Track 10 P
Course 349
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8891
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 10 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Solid hit amidships

Tube#6
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 75008
Gyro 0
Track 10 P
Course 349
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8891
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 10 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Slightly forward of amidships area.
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Solid hit forward of amidships area. Smoke from fires grew visible.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced
Course 025
Speed 4 kts
AOB

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 6
Date 1 November 1943 Time 2206 Location 7-07 N 153-50 E

Description

While submerged, sound contact on distant props at 245 degrees. Surfaced on course towards contact bearing. Sighted smoke, then mad SJ contact shortly after. With night fall approaching. Trailed until convoy zigged after dusk, conducted end around for night surface attack. Convoy is one SC type escorting one large AK and one small AK.

Type of attack
Night Surface-Torpedo via forward TBT and bow tubes.

Ships Sunk

NAME/CLASS KIGAN MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 7390
DATE 1 November 1943
TIME 2215
LOCATION 7-07 N 153-50 E
VERIFIED BY
Submarine on surface for night attack. Observed two torpedoes hit target and target sink eight and one half minutes after torpedo impact.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Target#1
Name/Class KIGAN MARU
Type AK
Tons 7390
Course 313
Speed 8 kts
Range 2550
Bearing 350
True Bearing 210
AOB 84 S
Remark

USS Skate SS-305 War Patrol Number One Torpedo Attack No. 6 Torpedo Data (at firing)

Tube#1
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 65760
Gyro 0
Track 83 S
Course 220
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8540
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI MOT
Erratic Yes[] No[X] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[X] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Uknown []
Remark

Tube#2
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 65761
Gyro 0
Track 83 S
Course 220
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8541
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting
Firing Method Single Bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[] No[X]
POI ---
Erratic Yes[X] No[] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Gyro [X] Unknown []
Remark
Suspected gyro failure, torpedo did not track properly. After initial launch, torpedo took a hard jog to starboard about 30 degrees off proper track.

Tube#3
Torpedo Type MK 14-2
Serial No. 65762
Gyro 0
Track 83 S
Course 220
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 8542
Exploder Contact
Speed Setting High
Depth Setting 10 ft
Firing Method Single bearing-TBT-TDC
Firing Interval 5 seconds
POA MOT
Spread 0
Hit Yes[X] No[]
POI Aft of MOT.
Erratic Yes[] No[] Circular run ? Yes[] No [X]
Malfunction? Yes[] No[] Dud[] Premature[] Depth Control [] Unknown []
Remark
Torpedo caused large explosion. Target sunk eight and one half minutes after impact. This was SKATE's twenty-fourth and final torpedo fired for this patrol. All torpedoes expended.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced
Course 219
Speed 2 kts
AOB 84 S

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gunnery Attacks

USS Skate SS-205 War Patrol One Gunnery Action No. 1
Date 5 October 194 Time 1326 Location 19-13 N 166-33 5 NM South of Wake Island

Description

While performing lifeguard operations for carrier air strikes on Wake Island, detected a small SC type vessel emerge from the Lagoon after the first air strike on morning of 5 October.
Avoided PC as too small for torpedo as well as to keep SKATE free for primary assignment. During the second wave on 5 October, PC was attacked by numerous aircraft. Most of this was heard, as SKATE had to go below periscope depth after enemy fighter (ZERO) attacked SKATE at periscope depth.
Later surfaced to find the PC down by the bow, but apparently holding on. Surfaced and put a few deck gun rounds into the stubborn little craft to help the process along.

Ships Sunk by Gunfire
Name/Class Small Auxiliary Subchaser
Type SC/PC
Tons 101
Date 5 October
Time 1329
Location 19-13 N 166-33 E 5 NM South of Wake Island.

Ships Damaged by Gunfire
None

Ships Probably Sunk by Gunfire
None

Gunnery Action No. 1 Target Data (at firing)

Name/Class Small Auxiliary Subchaser
Tons 101
Course ---
Speed 0
Range 3800
Remarks
Target was down by the bow damaged in air strikes. Crew still board on stern, the stern mounted machine gun opened fire on SKATE upon surfacing. No damage to SKATE.

Gunnery Action No. 1 Gunnery Data

Type 4 inch 50 Caliber
Serial No. 5-6798C
Disposition Forward Mount
Ammunition Type HE
Total Rounds (at start) 150-HE
Total Rounds expended 15
Total hits 8
Total misses 7
Rounds remaining after action: 135-HE.
Remark
Target sunk.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Course 085
Speed 5-6 kts
AOB 21
Radar Assist Yes [X] No []
Sea state Calm

E. Lifeguard

Lifeguard

A total of seven rescues were made during lifeguard assignment off Wake Island on 5/6 October, with eleven aircrew rescued in total .Some rescues were made as far out as 16 NM and some as close as 4000 yards off the beach at night, with decks awash to minimize SKATE's profile to shore.
SKATE came under shore battery fire from Wake at one point, in addition to dodging enemy aircraft. There were communication issues as SKATE did not receive reports of some downed aircraft, discovering crews during her own sweeps. Each and every report was investigated and every visible smoke marker was investigated as well. Due to the number aboard and injuries of some, proceeded to deliver them to Midway before heading to patrol area. During the transit to Midway, those recused who were physically able, assisted with operations of boat by standing watch as lookouts, and proved assets to the SKATE.

A mid-air collision between two F6F Hellcats was observed on morning of 5 October. SKATE searched the area but found no survivors, only debris and oil slicks.

USS SKATE SS-30 War Patrol One Lifeguard Rescue No. 1

Date 5 October 1943
Time 1018
Location 19-11 N 166-32 E 10 NM SSW of Wake Island
Rescued
LT O.T. Murray, USN.
Remarks
F6F pilot from Independence CVL-22, pulled from water in life preserver.

USS Skate War Patrol One Lifeguard Rescue No.2
Date 5 October 1943
Time 1025
Location 19-10 N 166-33 E 10 NM SSW Wake Island
Rescued
LT. (jg) L.A. Fontana, USN.
ACOM R.W. Lawson, USN.
ARM2c P.R. Willecker, USN.
Remarks
TBF crew from Essex CV-9, in life raft.

USS Skate War Patrol One Lifeguard Rescue No.3
Date 6 October 1943
Time 2233
Location 19-14 N 166-37 E 7000 yards South of Wake Island.
Rescued
ARM2c E.Z. Leskovitz, USN.
Remarks
Downed TBF radioman/gunner from Lexington, CV-16 ARM2c E.Z. Leskovitz, USN. Rest of his crew were picked up in Rescue No.4

USS Skate War Patrol One Lifeguard Rescue No.4
Date 6 October 1943
Time 2233
Location 19-14 N 166-36 E 6000 yards South of Wake Island.
Rescued
AP1c T.G. Haut, USN.
AOM1c W.S. Cusarinni, USN.
ARM2c E.Z. Leskovitz, USN.
Remarks
TBF crew from Lexington CV-16 , AP1c Haut and AOM1c Cursarinni located in raft. ARM2c Leskovitz (Rescue No 3) part of same crew, separated in bail out.

USS Skate War Patrol One Lifeguard Rescue No.5
Date 6 October 1943
Time 2313
Location 19-15 N 166-36 5000 yards South of Wake Island
Rescued
Ens. H.H. Letford, USN.
Remark
Downed TBF pilot Cowpens CVL-25 in life preserver.

USS Skate War Patrol One Lifeguard Rescue No. 6
Date 7 October 1943
Time 0032
Location 19-17 N 166-35 6000 yards South of Wake Island
Rescued
Lt. (jg) S.D. Just, USNR.
Remarks
Rescued F6F pilot, Yorktown CV-10, from waters 6000 yards off beach. Serious injuries, received treatment.

USS Skate War Patrol One Lifeguard Rescue No. 7
Date 7 October
Time 0526
Location 19-33 NE 166-32 E 16.5 NM NE of Wake Island
Rescued
Lt. L.L Peters, USN.
ACRM P.Q. Delmonico, USN.
Remarks
Downed SBD crew from Bealleau Wood CVL-24 in raft 16.5 NM NE of Wake Island.

F. Air Strike Observations

The carrier air strikes of five and six October were quite effective. Heavy damage was observed to the islands facilities with fires visible long into the nights far as way as 11 NM off shore. One large AK, observable from off shore in the lagoon was sunk by dive and torpedo bombers. Last viewed down by stern and burning.
The small SC/PC SKATE attacked with deck gun (Gunnery Attack No.1) on 5 October was crippled by aircraft strikes.

Anti-Aircraft fire was intense at times and visible from SKATE's position off shore.

G. Major Damage and Defects

At 1836 on 31 October 1943, SKATE was at a depth of 500 feet following an attack. One or possibly two close depth charges exploded above SKATE, very close. Boat was shaken terribly and caused damage listed below.

Conning tower

1.Bulkhead damage. Minor leaks with flooding.
2.No.1 (Observation) periscope- Inoperable
3.No.2 (Attack) periscope - Inoperable
4.Piping and Air line leaks.
5.SJ Radar Cabinet

Topside
1.SJ Radar Antenna
2.SD Radar Antenna
3.Target Bearing Transmitter (TBT)
4.No.1 (Observation)
5.No.2 (Attack) Periscope Head
6.4' 50 Caliber Deck Gun
7. Radio Antenna

Forward Torpedo Room

1.Forward Batteries
2.Torpedo Tube #3
3. Torpedo Tube #5

Control Room

1.Trim Pump
2.Hydraulic Pump
3.Compressor
4. Piping leaks, minor flooding.
5. Air line leaks.

Remarks

Damage Control party assigned and address most pressing of damage, namely any flooding.

Upon coming to periscope depth, it was determined that neither periscope was functional.

SJ radar performance did appear degraded for rest of patrol following damage to the antenna, in spite of repairs.

Forward batteries remained damage and SKATE was never able to reach more than 96 percent charge for remainder of the patrol.

H. Anti-Submarine Countermeasures

Enemy ASW was overall ineffective during this patrol, in spite of the damage caused to SKATE on 31 October. With the ability to submerge to great depths if required in the Balao Class, enemy sonar and sound equipment does not appear to be up to the job. This applies to even their apparent first team Destroyers escorting the Task Force which attacked SKATE on the 17 October. Although, they were on alert and somehow detected SKATE as ascended periscope depth for attack.

The enemy depth charges appeared more effective compared to my previous six patrols as Executive Officer of SEAL from December 1941-January 1943.

Enemy air patrols were encountered near daily basis both in vicinity of Truk and Wake Island.

Surface patrols were encountered in Truk area. Wake Island appeared to have a small PC/SC assigned, which SKATE sunk by gunfire, after carrier aircrew crippled her.

I. Mines

No mines were encountered.

J. Radar

SJ radar performed well until damaged in depth charge attack on 31 October. Prior to attack, typical detection range was somewhere at or above 10 NM. After attack, in spite of repairs to antenna and set, detection was around 8-8.5 NM with tracking difficult at times.

SD radar performance was normal typically detecting aircraft around 10 NM.

K. Radio

Radio performance was optimal.

L. Major Enemy Warship Contacts

On 17 October at time 1956, SKATE established SJ Radar contacts on a enemy task force bearing 334-345 degrees 9 NM at 7-41 N 152-57 E 63 NM East of Truk Atoll. Task Force was ascertained to be on a course of 080 degrees at a speed of 21 knots.

Soon, the striking, tall pagoda masts of Japanese Battleships were visible at some distance in the dusk sky. Prior to diving for a attack, was able to make out a rough estimation composition of the task force.

BBx3-4 Possibly Kongo Class
CVx2-3 Possiby Shokaku Class
CAx4? Takao Class
CLx4? Unknown
DDx10+ One Akizuki confirmed

The detection of SKATE is regrettable, as not being able to get a shot off at these choice targets was a source of great disappointment. The enemy destroyers, at least one identified as their best, the AKIZUKI CLASS, was spotted as lead escort. The enemy force fled at high speed once SKATE was detected with a couple of DD remaining behind, dropping depth charges to cover the escape of the fleet. After they had cleared, the DD's left in a hurry. SKATE was unable to regain contact due to enemy speed.

M. Crew

The crew performed well on the first patrol of SKATE, as evidenced by the sinking of seven enemy vessels and rescue of eleven downed airmen.Morale remained high through the patrol.

One Officer and 12 Crewmembers achieved Qualification in Submarines on this patrol.

N. Health and Habitability

Conditions on the board were relatively comfortable for most of the patrol, even with the addition of eleven men for a days en route to Midway after their rescue.

O. Navigational Aids

Wake Island proved a sufficient aid to navigation, especially with large fires burning through the night from the air strikes during the day time.

Oroluk Island in the Carolines inadvertently became a navigational aid while pursuing a fleeing convoy. No lights were sighted but the atoll is visible from miles, as well as SJ contact.

P. Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

Sound Conditions were excellent for most of the patrol. Hydrophones and Sonar were at peak performance.

Q. Thermal Layers

Thermal layers were encountered at 150, 175, 220, 244 and 300 feet.

R.Miles Steamed//Fuel Used

Miles Gallons
Pearl Harbor to Midway 1350 14231
Midway to Wake Island 1187 17245
Lifeguard Station 1000 11045
Lifeguard Station to Midway 1187 18241
Midway to Patrol Area 2300 30344
Patrol Area 4542 45665
Patrol Area to Pearl Harbor 2696 39994

S. Duration
Days
Pearl Harbor to Midway 4
Midway to Lifeguard Station 5
On Lifeguard Station 2
Lifeguard Station to Midway 5
Midway to Patrol Area 9
In Patrol Area 14
Days Submerged 4
Patrol Area to Pearl Harbor 11
Total Days on Patrol 50

T. Factors in Duration

Torpedoes 0
Fuel 21645 gallons
Food: 15 days
Damage No

Reason for termination of patrol: All torpedoes expended.

U. Remarks

A busy and successful patrol. The rescue of eleven downed airmen was the highlight of the patrol, only before the sinking of seven enemy vessels for estimated 40, 461 tons.

The performance of the new MK 14-2 Torpedoes and MK6-5 exploders was excellent on this patrol, as evidenced by the success. No torpedoes were duds, no deep runners. One torpedo did suffer an apparent gyro failure and veered off course, causing a miss, but the other two found their targets and sunk the enemy vessel. This is a remarkable turn around to previous experiences firing this weapon on six patrols in SEAL.

One does hope magnetic exploders will be figured out sooner than later, as would prove useful in situations, such as SKATE found herself in on 1 November (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4) when the torpedoes skimmed the side of the enemy vessel, "trading paint" but could not be actuated for explosion by contact.

The Balao Class Submarine and it's ability to dive deep, with high speed endurance on the surface, along with properly functioning torpedoes provides a true advantage in the campaign against enemy shipping.

Finally, the night surface attack provides a previously unknown mobility and flexibility in attacking enemy shipping and although has its own risks, is worth the effort. I have found this to now be preferred method of attack for SKATE, when able.

Bubblehead1980

10-15-21, 08:50 PM

Revus

10-17-21, 01:34 PM

https://i.postimg.cc/BnC0BKy4/combatinsignia.png (https://postimages.org/)

:Kaleun_Cheers: Cheers bud.
Finishing up the next report. Knocked out one convoy, one singleton, and hit another convoy leaving Rabaul from the south. Got two large AP's before running out of torps. 7 ships in all. Even had a possible encounter with a submerged sub, went down and quiet and let her pass. No clue whether she was friendly or not, but I didnt want to get close enough to find out.

Bubblehead1980

10-17-21, 03:28 PM

TMO 2.5 Update w patch patch (unleased of as yet)
100 difficult, cams off, contacts on for this patrol.

USS Skate SS-305
War Patrol Report
War Patrol Two
6 December 1943-16 January 1944

A. Prologue

Returned from patrol to Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, T.H. on 11 November 1943. During refit period, a new SJ-1 Surface Search Radar with PPI display installed. Eighteen MK 14-3A, and six MK 23-2 torpedoes were loaded aboard on 5 December. Refit completed and ready for sea 6 December 1943.

B. Narrative

6 December

0900 Departed Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. for patrol area North of Truk in the Japan-Truk sea lanes, via Johnston Island.

1330 Trim Dive.

7 December

0755 Remembrance ceremony for second anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

0810 Ceremony concluded.

1000 Gunnery and dive drills.

1230 Drills concluded.

8 December

1300 Arrived Johnston Island, docked at tender to top off fuel.

1800 Departed Johnston Island for patrol area.

9 December

En route patrol area.

10 December

En route patrol area.

11 December

En route patrol area.

12 December

En route patrol area.

13 December

En route patrol area.

14 December

En route patrol area.

15 December

En route patrol area.

16 December

0000 Entered patrol area.

1900 SJ contact 042 14 NM. Contact is convoy. Tracking until night fall for attack.

2150 General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface.

2249 TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1 Fired Tubes 1,2,3 at two AK. Withheld further due to apparent course change after firing.

2250:10 Torpedo impact !

2250:15 Torpedo impact !

2250:35 Torpedo impact ! (on second AK in column)

2254 Two Chidori type escorts are pursuing. Engines into overload. Speed 21 knots.

2304 Escorts turned back to guard convoy. Believe lost contact with SKATE in the dark.

2351 attempting to move in to finish off damaged AK's. Chidori suddenly seemed to spot SKATE and came rushing in. Chidori may have radar.

17 December

0001 Chidori broke off pursuit.

0033 Closing on pip lagging behind, near motionless, believe is damaged AK.

0042 Destroyer (possibly Fubuki Class) spotted! Closing at high speed range 5000 yards 0 AOB. DD possibly has radar.

0044 DD closing at 3500 yards high speed. Dive! Emergency 450 ft! . Rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0102 Pinging.

0104 Splashes.

0105 DC explosions.

0111 Depth-550 ft.

0157 Periscope depth. Spotted damaged AK bearing 025. Closing to attack.

0201 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1(a) Fired Tube#3 at damaged AK identified as MOMOYAMA MARU class 4037 tons

0202 Torpedo impact!

0203 Vessel is sinking. Lifeboats spotted. Surfaced, set course to catch up with convoy.

0205 MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons sunk at 9-38 N 150-14 E

0222 Convoy changed course to 180 degrees. Skies cleared with some moonlight. Seas remained choppy.

0225 Spotted damaged AK bearing 312 8000 yards.

0237 Swung around to bring stern tubes to bear on target.

0243 DD and Chidori suddenly began to rush in at high speed, apparently detected SKATE at 5000 yards. Pursued as SKATE sped away.

0246 DD 3000 yards. Dive ! Rigged for depth charge and silent running

0253 Enemy passed above. No pinging or depth charge.

0254 Boat depth-550 ft.

0308 DC explosions in distance.

0309 Secured General Quarters

0444 Radar Depth. SJ contacts convoy at bearing 247 9 NM. Secured Silent Running. Surfaced.

0459 Closing lone pip lagging behind, likely the damage AK.

0504 Pip is DD, avoided.

0513 Spotted damaged AK. General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface. Closing on target. Moonlight diminished.

0532 Crossing stern of target at 6000 yards, to track up the port to fire from opposite, unguard side.

0602 Stern brought about for firing.

0605 All stern tubes readied for firing.

0614 TORPEDO ATTACK No. 1(b) Fired tubes 7,8,

0615 Torpedo impact! Large fires and explosions.

0616 Chidori cutting through convoy to investigate explosions. SKATE speeding away 21 knots.

0616:41 Torpedo missed !

0622 BIYO MARU 5425 tons sunk at 9-37 N 150-22 E.

0628 Secured General Quarters. Dawn approaching, racing ahead for at dawn.

1541 SJ contact 025 14 NM. Convoy evaded detection all day but on modified search plan, located. Current position astern of convoy, racing ahead for end around.

1739 Ahead of convoy.

1814 General Quarters-Torpedo- Submerged.

1824 Smoke sighted bearing 077.

1829 Submerged for attack.

1939 Port escort appears to left gap in screen while making a sweep, SKATE began closing large AK in lead...KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons.

1941 All tubes readied forward.

1944 Akatsuki Class DD bearing 118 coming up to rejoin at high speed.

1946 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 Fired tubes 3,4,5,6

1946:35 Torpedo #4(Tube#6) erratic! Circle run! SOUNDED COLLISION! Ordered depth of 100 ft, EMERGENCY!.

1948:05 Torpedo impact !

1948:10 Torpedo impact !

1948:15 Torpedo impact!

1948:30 SKATE at 100 ft. Torpedo circling above. Pinging from DD , no doubt given visual cue as to SKATES location.

1950 Torpedo reached end of run and motor stopped. Ordered 450 ft depth. Rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1953:11Large explosion and noises of ship breaking up.

1954:23 Massive explosions from bearing of sinking target.

1956:07 KOBAYSHI MARU 9980 tons sunk 9-37 N 150-22 E.

2000 DC explosions, not close.

2155 Lost contact with enemy.

18 December

0040 Surfaced. Returned to scene of attack, located debris, wreckage, including bodies. Sinking confirmed.

0042 Secured General Quarters. Position fix shows SKATE out of patrol area, and unlikely to make contact and follow up attack on remaining AK before reaches Truk, set course to return.

1112 SD contact 6 NM. Dive!

1900 Surfaced

19 December

Patrol

20 December

Patrol

21 December

0124 SJ contacts bearing 358 13.5 NM Multiple pips, likely convoy. Set course for convoy.

0125 SJ contact bearing 100 13 NM two pips, likely patrol.

0145 General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface.

0201 Large tanker in nearest (port) column is target.

0203 All forward tubes made ready.

0206 Two large tankers in center of column est 10000 and 6000 tons.

0216 TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3 Fired Tubes 1,2,3 at AKEBONO MARU AO and Tubes 4,5,6at NIPPON MARU AO

0218 All torpedoes impacted as aimed. NIPPON MARU exploded in fireball, wrecked. AKEBONO MARU, possibly empty did not exploded, small fire seen amidships.

0226 NIPPON MARU 10000 tons sunk 09-49 N 150-57 E

0418 Ahead of convoy. Turned for stern shot on damaged AO.

0431 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4 Fired tubes 7,8, at AKEBONO MARU.

0433 Torpedoes impacted. Tanker exploded and began to sink.

0435 AKEBONO MARU sunk 6839 tons at 09-44 N 150-54 E

0450 Secured General Quarters. End around of convoy for dawn attack.

1900 Unable to regain contact with enemy convoy, which is now surely out of SKATE's area. Resumed patrol

22 December

Patrol

23 December

1300 SD contact 11 NM closing. Submerged.

23 December

Patrol

24 December

0501 Received ULTRA. Enemy BB expected to pass through SKATE's area between 0000-0600 25 December. Moved to set up search pattern.

1659 SD contact 12 NM closing. Submerged.

2230 Surfaced. Seas choppy light fog, clouds clear.

25 December

Searched for BB throughout day, no contact.

1249 SD contact 224 10 NM. Submerged.

1900 Surfaced.

26 December

1305 SD contact 9 NM closing. Submerged

1636 Surfaced.

27 December

Patrol

28 December

1202 Two SD contacts 6 NM closing fast. Submerged.

1204 Explosions.

1217 more explosions.

1349 Surfaced

1604 SD contact closing. Submerged

2120 Surfaced

29 December

Patrol

30 December

Patrol

31 December

Patrol

1944

1 January

Patrol

2 January

Patrol

3 January

Patrol

4 January

1856 SJ contacts bearing 357 14 NM. Set course to intercept.

1900 PPI indicated a convoy. Six ships, three escorts.

1907 General Quarters-Torpedo-Submerged.

1912 Smoke sighted bearing 350.

1915 Submerged for attack.

2012 Forward tubes readied for firing.

2019 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5 Fired tubes 3,4. All bow torpedoes expended.

2020:25 Torpedo impact!

2020:30 Torpedo impact! large hole visible above water line amidships after large explosion. Target slowed

2021 Target stopped, listing to port. Pinging from escort 180 closing fast. Rigged for depth charge and silent running. Ordered 450 ft .

2027 Multiple DC explosions astern

2028 Pinging , escort closing fast.

2029 Escort passed above. DC splashes. Boat depth 500 ft.

2030 DC explosions

2031 Close DC explosion.

2058 DC explosions several thousand yards astern. Escorts appear to have lost SKATE.

2221 Periscope depth. SHAJIMA MARU dead in water bearing 154 at 2500 yards.

2222 Radar depth. Lone pip 7000 yards away, stationary. Likely a "sleeper" waiting for SKATE to surface.

2245 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5 (a) Fired tube #7 to finish off damaged AK.

2245 Torpedo impact!

2253 SHAJIMA MARU 6540 tons sunk 10-0 N 150-57 E. Surfaced, set course for end around.

5 January

0100 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 6 Fired Tubes 7,8,9,10. All torpedoes expended.

0102 Torpedo impact! All three fish hit target. Target on fire, listing. SKATE dodging gunfire.

0103 MADRAS MARU 3790 tons sunk in less than a minute at 10-09 B 150-59 E.

0130 Secured General Quarters. Set course for Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island.

6 January

En route Pearl Harbor

7 January

En route Pearl Harbor

8 January

En route Pearl Harbor

9 January

En route Pearl Harbor

10 January

En route Pearl Harbor

11 January

En route Pearl Harbor

12 January

1500-1900 Refueled at Johnston Island.

13 January

En route Pearl Harbor

14 January

En route Pearl Harbor

15 January

En route Pearl Harbor

!6 January

1400 Arrived Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, T.H.. Terminated patrol.

C. Weather

Weather was overall favorable during this patrol. Heavy seas during the attacks during initial attacks on 17 December did complicate matters at times, but help SKATE escape prolonged depth charge attacks when force to dive.

D. Attack Data

Torpedo Attack Data

Number of Torpedo Attacks: 6
Torpedoes Expended:24
Torpedo Hits:22
Torpedo Misses: 2
Torpedo Malfunctions: 1. Torpedo Attack No. 2 , see torpedo info below.
Ships Sunk: 7
Ships damage: 0
Ships probably sunk: 0

Erratic #1 (at firing)
Error: Circular Run
Type MK 14-3A
Serial No. 88456
Exploder Contact
Serial No. 8856
Speed Setting High
Depth 8 ft
Method Single bearing-Periscope No.2-TDC
Spread 0
Gyro 359 L
Track 8 P
Course 330
Range(from target) 1800 yards
AOB (target) 88 P
Speed(target) 9 knots
Course (target) 101
Remark
Torpedo was final one fired out of three in the attack. Torpedo veered to starboard, then circled back towards SKATE. An emergency descent to 100 feet was made. Torpedo made four passes directly above SKATE during this time. Eventually, torpedo expended it's fuel and sound lost contact, until it's explosion, likely from sinking deep. A definite close call for the boat and crew.

Own Ships Data (at firing)

Depth: 64 feet
Course 095
Speed 2 knots
Action taken Ordered 100 ft depth with high speed and minimum angle to avoid stern protruding and risk being struck by erratic torpedo.

Ships sunk-War Patrol Two

1.
Name MOMOYAMA MARU
Type AK
Tons 4037
Date 17 December 1943
Time 0202
Location 9-38 N 150-14 E

2.
Name BIYO MARU
Type AK
Tons 5425
Date 17 December 1943
Time 0615
Location 9-37 N 150-22 E

3.
Name KOBAYASHI MARU
Type AK
Tons 9980
Date 17 December 1943
Time 1948
Location 9-37 N 150-22 E

4.Name NIPPON MARU
Type AO
Tons 10000
Date 21 December 1943
Time 0218
Location 09-49 N 150-57 E

5.
Name AKEBONO MARU
Type AO
Tons 6839
Date 21 December 1943
Time 0431
Location 09-44 N 150-54 E

6.
Name SHAJIMA MARU
Type AK
Tons 6350
Date 4 January 1944
Time 2250
Location 10-0 N 150-57 E

7.Name MADRAS MARU
Type AK
Tons 3790
Date 5 January 1944
Time 0102
Location 10-09 B 150-59 E

Gunnery Attacks

No gunnery actions occurred on this patrol.

E. Radar

Performance of new SJ-1 Surface Search Radar was excellent. Typical target detection range was twelve nautical miles. The PPI scope is a 'game changer', as it provides awareness of the tactical situation previously desired, but not attainable.

SD radar performance was overall excellent.

Enemy Radar

Believe enemy Akatsuki Class Destroyer encountered on 16/17 December was equipped with surface search radar as it detected during SKATE's attempts to follow up attack on damaged AK, twice. Range SKATE was detected at is unknown but estimated to be 5000-7000 yards.

Do not believe the Chidori type escorts encountered were equipped at radar, but signaled to our presence by the Akatsuki DD.

F. Radio

Radio communications were excellent during the patrol.

G. Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

Sound gear functioned well overall. Sound conditions were excellent throughout patrol area for SKATE.

The enemy seemed to have difficulty tracking SKATE when submerged deep, especially during rough sea conditions, thus rendering counter attacks relatively ineffective.

H. Thermal Layers

Thermal Layers were registered at 100, 192, 230, and 333 feet.

I. Major Defects and Damage

Skate was undamaged during this patrol and suffered no major defects in equipment.

J. Anti-Submarine Countermeasures and Evasion

In patrol area, encountered numerous two vessel patrols, typically of DD or DE type "sweeping" the northern approaches to Truk. Daily air patrols were flown and most days encountered, forcing SKATE to submerge,

Enemy convoys were well escorted compared to those previously encountered, with three or even four escorts.

One nemy DD (Akatsuki Class) on 17 December is believed to have bene equipped with radar detecting, and chasing off SKATE twice, forcing dives as SKATE could not out run the DD on the surface.

Skate came under heavy gunfire from escorts and merchants during night surface attacks, but escaped harm.

Enemy depth charges seemed to be the improved type as explosion seem larger and reach detonation depth quicker after launch, indicating heavier charge with higher sink rate.

Evasion

SKATE's standard evasion procedures worked well on this patrol. Upon evading enemy counter attacks when submerged, boat descended to depth of 450-500 feet initially, rigged for silent running and depth charge.Speed bursts are applied when required, such as when enemy vessel above dropping depth charges.
Five to ten degrees or port or starboard rudder is applied at all times to prevent SKATE from sailing a straight, predictable course and to confuse enemy sound operators. Speed is kept at 2.5-3 knots, less then 100 RPM during silent running, aside from speed bursts when sound is obscured by enemy above and depth charge explosions.

The deep diving capability of the Balao Class Submarine provides an excellent countermeasure to enemy sound and active searches.

Avoided enemy air patrols by diving and surface patrols by diving or speeding away at high surface speed.

K. Tidal Information

Tidal information was as previously reported in the area.

L. Navigational Aids

No navigational aids were encountered in the open ocean patrol area assigned.

M. Mines

No mines were encountered on this patrol.

N. Crew

Crew performance on this patrol was excellent. One Officer and Six men achieved qualification in submarines during this patrol.

Total crew aboard 72
Qualified in Submarines 48 (start of patrol)
Qualified in Submarines at End of patrol 54

Officers and Chief Petty Officers for War Patrol Two

LTCDR Ryan, Irvin T., USN Commanding Officer
LT Hunter, Ronald F. USN Executive Officer
LT(jg) Reeves III, John W.USN Dive/Engingeering Officer
LT(jg) Wilson, Martin X. USN Torpedo/Gunnery Officer
LT(jg) Morris, Walter J. USN Sound Officer
LT(jg) Clancy, Frank E. USN Radar Officer
LT(jg) Wreford Austin USN Communications Officer
LT(jg) Beach, Gerald P. USN Assistant Dive/Engineering Officer
Ens. Dunbar, Thomas J. USNR Commissary Officer/Asstiarant Communications Officer
Ens. Hollister, Barton S.USNR Assistant Radar Officer.

CQM O'Brien, Miles E. USN Chief of the Boat
CQM Ashburton, Samuel J. USN Assistant Navigator
CSoM Wallance, Howard USN
CTM Sunday, Leslie W. USN
CEM Kousalmakis, Nicholas F. USN
CMoMM Adams, Philip C. USN
CMoMM Franz, Edgar O. USN

Those who earned qualification in submarines during this patrol

LT(jg) Beach, Gerald P, USN
SM2c Lewis, Louis A. USN
SoM3c Miller, Eugene S. USNR
RdM3c Rosencrans, Dilbert H. USN
TM3c Molony, Royce L. USN
MoMM3c Walker, Guyford T. USN
MoMM3c Long, Anthony USN

O. Health and Habitability

Conditions were generally pleasant throughout the patrol. The fair weather and seas for most of patrol contributed to this. Meal preparation was excellent, the frozen filet mignon, frozen strawberries, and assorted fruits were a hit. With SKATE at sea during Christmas and New Years Holidays, special meals were prepared. Christmas dinner was Turkey, Ham, dressing, beets, potatoes, and gravy, with strawberry, cherry pie and ice cream. Our southern contingent (including ships cook) prepared inspired black eyed peas for New Years Day, with filet mignon served New Years Eve. Chief Kousamalkis's soda fountain, providing Coca Cola, was a big hit with the crew. All proceeds after costs are directed to ships recreation fund.

P. Miles Steamed-Fuel Consumed

Pearl Harbor to Johnston Island
888 miles 10244 Gallons

Johnston Island to Patrol area
2858 miles 25888 gallons

Patrol Area
5200 miles 48900 gallons

Patrol Area to Johnston Island
2998 miles 29044 gallons

Johnston Island to Pearl Harbor
888 miles 11100 gallons.

Q. Duration

Pearl Harbor to Johnston Island
2 days

Johnston Island to Patrol Area
8 days

Days in Patrol Area
20 days

Patrol Area to Johnston Island
8 days

Johnston Island to Pearl Harbor
10 days

Days submerged 4 days

Total duration of patrol
40 days.

R. Factors in Duration

Fuel 31200 gallons (prior to refueled at Johnston Island)

Torpedoes 0

Food 21 days

Factor in termination of patrol- All torpedoes expended.

S. Remarks

Another busy and successful patrol for SKATE and her crew. The SKATE has proven a fine example of the advtanges the Balao Class submarine provides in the war on enemy shipping. Coupled with improved torpedo performance, a sense of optimism among veteran crewmembers is present.

The night surface attack has proven yet again an excellent method to interdict enemy shipping, especially now with the new SJ-1 radar and PPI scope. A hope for installation of a Radar Warning Receiver is present, since it appears enemy vessels are now coming equipped with surface search radar, such as the Akatsuki DD.

SKATE was disappointed it did not contact the battleship reported to be transiting the area on 25 December. However, with seven ships sunk, including two large valuable tankers, for a total of nearly 50000 tons in enemy shipping, the boat and her crew are satisfied and ready for next patrol.

Bubblehead1980

10-17-21, 03:50 PM

[QUOTE=Bubblehead1980;2774816]TMO 2.5 Update w patch patch (unleased of as yet)
100 difficult, cams off, contacts on for this patrol.

USS Skate SS-305
War Patrol Report
War Patrol Two
6 December 1943-16 January 1944

https://i.postimg.cc/LXqjzM8M/Burn1.png (https://postimages.org/) Tanker

https://i.postimg.cc/pTnnmYsW/Cheer1.png (https://postimages.org/) Crew cheering when torpedoes hit KOBAYASHI MARU. SKATE was at 100 feet avoiding a circle running torpedo. External cam off, so could only wait and listen.

https://i.postimg.cc/zvZHKbQn/cheer3.png (https://postimages.org/)Crew cheering when torpedoes hit KOBAYASHI MARU. SKATE was at 100 feet avoiding a circle running torpedo. External cam off, so could only wait and listen.

https://i.postimg.cc/gky8ysmr/Frontview.png (https://postimages.org/) External Cam off, but used the free roam cam inside to move for this close up shot.

https://i.postimg.cc/R0htBzfn/Kob2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/4NRphqCr/Phos1.png (https://postimages.org/) Close star shells caused this?

https://i.postimg.cc/tJWPMt6S/Tankerblow1.png (https://postimages.org/) tanker

https://i.postimg.cc/bJKkgFZS/Tankerblow2.png (https://postimages.org/) tanker

https://i.postimg.cc/CMqj5Y2G/Tankerblow3.png (https://postimages.org/) tanker

https://i.postimg.cc/K8ZL0T8f/Tankerblow4.png (https://postimages.org/) tanker

https://i.postimg.cc/prfhZVN3/ULTRA.png (https://postimages.org/) ULTRA about Yamato. Unfortunately, did not locate her on patrol, I was in the area. Upon conclusion of patrol, I reloaded my last save day before message, went to area and found YAMATO. I attacked and scored five torpedo hits, fifth hit caused large explosions. Of course, her escorts then pushed me to 650 feet and beat my boat up with depth charges, but I survived. Yamato was damaged but not crippled, sound lost contact with her 2 hours after torpedo impact, making moderate speed.

Why did I miss her on patrol? Found my navigation was slightly off, likely just missed radar contact with her and her escorts. How it goes sometimes.

Note: This is a historical movement I actually added to TMO as part of my update. I forgot about it actually until ULTRA came along. In real life, on 25 December 1943 USS Skate SS-305, guided to position by an ULTRA (decryption of Japanese radio traffic) did in fact torpedo YAMATO North of Truk, as she returned from home islands on a supply mission causing serious damage with four MK 14 hits from stern tubes.

Much as in real life, kind of a once in a lifetime chance in the sim now, in TMO anyways.

A. Prologue

Returned from patrol to Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, T.H. on 11 November 1943. During refit period, a new SJ-1 Surface Search Radar with PPI display installed. Eighteen MK 14-3A, and six MK 23-2 torpedoes were loaded aboard on 5 December. Refit completed and ready for sea 6 December 1943.

B. Narrative

6 December

0900 Departed Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. for patrol area North of Truk in the Japan-Truk sea lanes, via Johnston Island.

1330 Trim Dive.

7 December

0755 Remembrance ceremony for second anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

0810 Ceremony concluded.

1000 Gunnery and dive drills.

1230 Drills concluded.

8 December

1300 Arrived Johnston Island, docked at tender to top off fuel.

1800 Departed Johnston Island for patrol area.

9 December

En route patrol area.

10 December

En route patrol area.

11 December

En route patrol area.

12 December

En route patrol area.

13 December

En route patrol area.

14 December

En route patrol area.

15 December

En route patrol area.

16 December

0000 Entered patrol area.

1900 SJ contact 042 14 NM. Contact is convoy. Tracking until night fall for attack.

2150 General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface.

2249 TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1 Fired Tubes 1,2,3 at two AK. Withheld further due to apparent course change after firing.

2250:10 Torpedo impact !

2250:15 Torpedo impact !

2250:35 Torpedo impact ! (on second AK in column)

2254 Two Chidori type escorts are pursuing. Engines into overload. Speed 21 knots.

2304 Escorts turned back to guard convoy. Believe lost contact with SKATE in the dark.

2351 attempting to move in to finish off damaged AK's. Chidori suddenly seemed to spot SKATE and came rushing in. Chidori may have radar.

17 December

0001 Chidori broke off pursuit.

0033 Closing on pip lagging behind, near motionless, believe is damaged AK.

0042 Destroyer (possibly Fubuki Class) spotted! Closing at high speed range 5000 yards 0 AOB. DD possibly has radar.

0044 DD closing at 3500 yards high speed. Dive! Emergency 450 ft! . Rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0102 Pinging.

0104 Splashes.

0105 DC explosions.

0111 Depth-550 ft.

0157 Periscope depth. Spotted damaged AK bearing 025. Closing to attack.

0201 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1(a) Fired Tube#3 at damaged AK identified as MOMOYAMA MARU class 4037 tons

0202 Torpedo impact!

0203 Vessel is sinking. Lifeboats spotted. Surfaced, set course to catch up with convoy.

0205 MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons sunk at 9-38 N 150-14 E

0222 Convoy changed course to 180 degrees. Skies cleared with some moonlight. Seas remained choppy.

0225 Spotted damaged AK bearing 312 8000 yards.

0237 Swung around to bring stern tubes to bear on target.

0243 DD and Chidori suddenly began to rush in at high speed, apparently detected SKATE at 5000 yards. Pursued as SKATE sped away.

0246 DD 3000 yards. Dive ! Rigged for depth charge and silent running

0253 Enemy passed above. No pinging or depth charge.

0254 Boat depth-550 ft.

0308 DC explosions in distance.

0309 Secured General Quarters

0444 Radar Depth. SJ contacts convoy at bearing 247 9 NM. Secured Silent Running. Surfaced.

0459 Closing lone pip lagging behind, likely the damage AK.

0504 Pip is DD, avoided.

0513 Spotted damaged AK. General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface. Closing on target. Moonlight diminished.

0532 Crossing stern of target at 6000 yards, to track up the port to fire from opposite, unguard side.

0602 Stern brought about for firing.

0605 All stern tubes readied for firing.

0614 TORPEDO ATTACK No. 1(b) Fired tubes 7,8,

0615 Torpedo impact! Large fires and explosions.

0616 Chidori cutting through convoy to investigate explosions. SKATE speeding away 21 knots.

0616:41 Torpedo missed !

0622 BIYO MARU 5425 tons sunk at 9-37 N 150-22 E.

0628 Secured General Quarters. Dawn approaching, racing ahead for at dawn.

1541 SJ contact 025 14 NM. Convoy evaded detection all day but on modified search plan, located. Current position astern of convoy, racing ahead for end around.

1739 Ahead of convoy.

1814 General Quarters-Torpedo- Submerged.

1824 Smoke sighted bearing 077.

1829 Submerged for attack.

1939 Port escort appears to left gap in screen while making a sweep, SKATE began closing large AK in lead...KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons.

1941 All tubes readied forward.

1944 Akatsuki Class DD bearing 118 coming up to rejoin at high speed.

1946 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 Fired tubes 3,4,5,6

1946:35 Torpedo #4(Tube#6) erratic! Circle run! SOUNDED COLLISION! Ordered depth of 100 ft, EMERGENCY!.

1948:05 Torpedo impact !

1948:10 Torpedo impact !

1948:15 Torpedo impact!

1948:30 SKATE at 100 ft. Torpedo circling above. Pinging from DD , no doubt given visual cue as to SKATES location.

1950 Torpedo reached end of run and motor stopped. Ordered 450 ft depth. Rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1953:11Large explosion and noises of ship breaking up.

1954:23 Massive explosions from bearing of sinking target.

1956:07 KOBAYSHI MARU 9980 tons sunk 9-37 N 150-22 E.

2000 DC explosions, not close.

2155 Lost contact with enemy.

18 December

0040 Surfaced. Returned to scene of attack, located debris, wreckage, including bodies. Sinking confirmed.

0042 Secured General Quarters. Position fix shows SKATE out of patrol area, and unlikely to make contact and follow up attack on remaining AK before reaches Truk, set course to return.

1112 SD contact 6 NM. Dive!

1900 Surfaced

19 December

Patrol

20 December

Patrol

21 December

0124 SJ contacts bearing 358 13.5 NM Multiple pips, likely convoy. Set course for convoy.

0125 SJ contact bearing 100 13 NM two pips, likely patrol.

0145 General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface.

0201 Large tanker in nearest (port) column is target.

0203 All forward tubes made ready.

0206 Two large tankers in center of column est 10000 and 6000 tons.

0216 TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3 Fired Tubes 1,2,3 at AKEBONO MARU AO and Tubes 4,5,6at NIPPON MARU AO

0218 All torpedoes impacted as aimed. NIPPON MARU exploded in fireball, wrecked. AKEBONO MARU, possibly empty did not exploded, small fire seen amidships.

0226 NIPPON MARU 10000 tons sunk 09-49 N 150-57 E

0418 Ahead of convoy. Turned for stern shot on damaged AO.

0431 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4 Fired tubes 7,8, at AKEBONO MARU.

0433 Torpedoes impacted. Tanker exploded and began to sink.

0435 AKEBONO MARU sunk 6839 tons at 09-44 N 150-54 E

0450 Secured General Quarters. End around of convoy for dawn attack.

1900 Unable to regain contact with enemy convoy, which is now surely out of SKATE's area. Resumed patrol

22 December

Patrol

23 December

1300 SD contact 11 NM closing. Submerged.

23 December

Patrol

24 December

0501 Received ULTRA. Enemy BB expected to pass through SKATE's area between 0000-0600 25 December. Moved to set up search pattern.

1659 SD contact 12 NM closing. Submerged.

2230 Surfaced. Seas choppy light fog, clouds clear.

25 December

Searched for BB throughout day, no contact.

1249 SD contact 224 10 NM. Submerged.

1900 Surfaced.

26 December

1305 SD contact 9 NM closing. Submerged

1636 Surfaced.

27 December

Patrol

28 December

1202 Two SD contacts 6 NM closing fast. Submerged.

1204 Explosions.

1217 more explosions.

1349 Surfaced

1604 SD contact closing. Submerged

2120 Surfaced

29 December

Patrol

30 December

Patrol

31 December

Patrol

1944

1 January

Patrol

2 January

Patrol

3 January

Patrol

4 January

1856 SJ contacts bearing 357 14 NM. Set course to intercept.

1900 PPI indicated a convoy. Six ships, three escorts.

1907 General Quarters-Torpedo-Submerged.

1912 Smoke sighted bearing 350.

1915 Submerged for attack.

2012 Forward tubes readied for firing.

2019 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5 Fired tubes 3,4. All bow torpedoes expended.

2020:25 Torpedo impact!

2020:30 Torpedo impact! large hole visible above water line amidships after large explosion. Target slowed

2021 Target stopped, listing to port. Pinging from escort 180 closing fast. Rigged for depth charge and silent running. Ordered 450 ft .

2027 Multiple DC explosions astern

2028 Pinging , escort closing fast.

2029 Escort passed above. DC splashes. Boat depth 500 ft.

2030 DC explosions

2031 Close DC explosion.

2058 DC explosions several thousand yards astern. Escorts appear to have lost SKATE.

2221 Periscope depth. SHAJIMA MARU dead in water bearing 154 at 2500 yards.

2222 Radar depth. Lone pip 7000 yards away, stationary. Likely a "sleeper" waiting for SKATE to surface.

2245 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5 (a) Fired tube #7 to finish off damaged AK.

2245 Torpedo impact!

2253 SHAJIMA MARU 6540 tons sunk 10-0 N 150-57 E. Surfaced, set course for end around.

5 January

0100 TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 6 Fired Tubes 7,8,9,10. All torpedoes expended.

0102 Torpedo impact! All three fish hit target. Target on fire, listing. SKATE dodging gunfire.

0103 MADRAS MARU 3790 tons sunk in less than a minute at 10-09 B 150-59 E.

0130 Secured General Quarters. Set course for Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island.

6 January

En route Pearl Harbor

7 January

En route Pearl Harbor

8 January

En route Pearl Harbor

9 January

En route Pearl Harbor

10 January

En route Pearl Harbor

11 January

En route Pearl Harbor

12 January

1500-1900 Refueled at Johnston Island.

13 January

En route Pearl Harbor

14 January

En route Pearl Harbor

15 January

En route Pearl Harbor

!6 January

1400 Arrived Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, T.H.. Terminated patrol.

C. Weather

Weather was overall favorable during this patrol. Heavy seas during the attacks during initial attacks on 17 December did complicate matters at times, but help SKATE escape prolonged depth charge attacks when force to dive.

D. Attack Data

Torpedo Attack Data

Number of Torpedo Attacks: 6
Torpedoes Expended:24
Torpedo Hits:22
Torpedo Misses: 2
Torpedo Malfunctions: 1. Torpedo Attack No. 2 , see torpedo info below.
Ships Sunk: 7
Ships damage: 0
Ships probably sunk: 0

Erratic #1 (at firing)
Error: Circular Run
Type MK 14-3A
Serial No. 88456
Exploder Contact
Serial No. 8856
Speed Setting High
Depth 8 ft
Method Single bearing-Periscope No.2-TDC
Spread 0
Gyro 359 L
Track 8 P
Course 330
Range(from target) 1800 yards
AOB (target) 88 P
Speed(target) 9 knots
Course (target) 101
Remark
Torpedo was final one fired out of three in the attack. Torpedo veered to starboard, then circled back towards SKATE. An emergency descent to 100 feet was made. Torpedo made four passes directly above SKATE during this time. Eventually, torpedo expended it's fuel and sound lost contact, until it's explosion, likely from sinking deep. A definite close call for the boat and crew.

Own Ships Data (at firing)

Depth: 64 feet
Course 095
Speed 2 knots
Action taken Ordered 100 ft depth with high speed and minimum angle to avoid stern protruding and risk being struck by erratic torpedo.

Ships sunk-War Patrol Two

1.
Name MOMOYAMA MARU
Type AK
Tons 4037
Date 17 December 1943
Time 0202
Location 9-38 N 150-14 E

2.
Name BIYO MARU
Type AK
Tons 5425
Date 17 December 1943
Time 0615
Location 9-37 N 150-22 E

3.
Name KOBAYASHI MARU
Type AK
Tons 9980
Date 17 December 1943
Time 1948
Location 9-37 N 150-22 E

4.Name NIPPON MARU
Type AO
Tons 10000
Date 21 December 1943
Time 0218
Location 09-49 N 150-57 E

5.
Name AKEBONO MARU
Type AO
Tons 6839
Date 21 December 1943
Time 0431
Location 09-44 N 150-54 E

6.
Name SHAJIMA MARU
Type AK
Tons 6350
Date 4 January 1944
Time 2250
Location 10-0 N 150-57 E

7.Name MADRAS MARU
Type AK
Tons 3790
Date 5 January 1944
Time 0102
Location 10-09 B 150-59 E

Gunnery Attacks

No gunnery actions occurred on this patrol.

E. Radar

Performance of new SJ-1 Surface Search Radar was excellent. Typical target detection range was twelve nautical miles. The PPI scope is a 'game changer', as it provides awareness of the tactical situation previously desired, but not attainable.

SD radar performance was overall excellent.

Enemy Radar

Believe enemy Akatsuki Class Destroyer encountered on 16/17 December was equipped with surface search radar as it detected during SKATE's attempts to follow up attack on damaged AK, twice. Range SKATE was detected at is unknown but estimated to be 5000-7000 yards.

Do not believe the Chidori type escorts encountered were equipped at radar, but signaled to our presence by the Akatsuki DD.

F. Radio

Radio communications were excellent during the patrol.

G. Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

Sound gear functioned well overall. Sound conditions were excellent throughout patrol area for SKATE.

The enemy seemed to have difficulty tracking SKATE when submerged deep, especially during rough sea conditions, thus rendering counter attacks relatively ineffective.

H. Thermal Layers

Thermal Layers were registered at 100, 192, 230, and 333 feet.

I. Major Defects and Damage

Skate was undamaged during this patrol and suffered no major defects in equipment.

J. Anti-Submarine Countermeasures and Evasion

In patrol area, encountered numerous two vessel patrols, typically of DD or DE type "sweeping" the northern approaches to Truk. Daily air patrols were flown and most days encountered, forcing SKATE to submerge,

Enemy convoys were well escorted compared to those previously encountered, with three or even four escorts.

One nemy DD (Akatsuki Class) on 17 December is believed to have bene equipped with radar detecting, and chasing off SKATE twice, forcing dives as SKATE could not out run the DD on the surface.

Skate came under heavy gunfire from escorts and merchants during night surface attacks, but escaped harm.

Enemy depth charges seemed to be the improved type as explosion seem larger and reach detonation depth quicker after launch, indicating heavier charge with higher sink rate.

Evasion

SKATE's standard evasion procedures worked well on this patrol. Upon evading enemy counter attacks when submerged, boat descended to depth of 450-500 feet initially, rigged for silent running and depth charge.Speed bursts are applied when required, such as when enemy vessel above dropping depth charges.
Five to ten degrees or port or starboard rudder is applied at all times to prevent SKATE from sailing a straight, predictable course and to confuse enemy sound operators. Speed is kept at 2.5-3 knots, less then 100 RPM during silent running, aside from speed bursts when sound is obscured by enemy above and depth charge explosions.

The deep diving capability of the Balao Class Submarine provides an excellent countermeasure to enemy sound and active searches.

Avoided enemy air patrols by diving and surface patrols by diving or speeding away at high surface speed.

K. Tidal Information

Tidal information was as previously reported in the area.

L. Navigational Aids

No navigational aids were encountered in the open ocean patrol area assigned.

M. Mines

No mines were encountered on this patrol.

N. Crew

Crew performance on this patrol was excellent. One Officer and Six men achieved qualification in submarines during this patrol.

Total crew aboard 72
Qualified in Submarines 48 (start of patrol)
Qualified in Submarines at End of patrol 54

Officers and Chief Petty Officers for War Patrol Two

LTCDR Ryan, Irvin T., USN Commanding Officer
LT Hunter, Ronald F. USN Executive Officer
LT(jg) Reeves III, John W.USN Dive/Engingeering Officer
LT(jg) Wilson, Martin X. USN Torpedo/Gunnery Officer
LT(jg) Morris, Walter J. USN Sound Officer
LT(jg) Clancy, Frank E. USN Radar Officer
LT(jg) Wreford Austin USN Communications Officer
LT(jg) Beach, Gerald P. USN Assistant Dive/Engineering Officer
Ens. Dunbar, Thomas J. USNR Commissary Officer/Asstiarant Communications Officer
Ens. Hollister, Barton S.USNR Assistant Radar Officer.

CQM O'Brien, Miles E. USN Chief of the Boat
CQM Ashburton, Samuel J. USN Assistant Navigator
CSoM Wallance, Howard USN
CTM Sunday, Leslie W. USN
CEM Kousalmakis, Nicholas F. USN
CMoMM Adams, Philip C. USN
CMoMM Franz, Edgar O. USN

Those who earned qualification in submarines during this patrol

LT(jg) Beach, Gerald P, USN
SM2c Lewis, Louis A. USN
SoM3c Miller, Eugene S. USNR
RdM3c Rosencrans, Dilbert H. USN
TM3c Molony, Royce L. USN
MoMM3c Walker, Guyford T. USN
MoMM3c Long, Anthony USN

O. Health and Habitability

Conditions were generally pleasant throughout the patrol. The fair weather and seas for most of patrol contributed to this. Meal preparation was excellent, the frozen filet mignon, frozen strawberries, and assorted fruits were a hit. With SKATE at sea during Christmas and New Years Holidays, special meals were prepared. Christmas dinner was Turkey, Ham, dressing, beets, potatoes, and gravy, with strawberry, cherry pie and ice cream. Our southern contingent (including ships cook) prepared inspired black eyed peas for New Years Day, with filet mignon served New Years Eve. Chief Kousamalkis's soda fountain, providing Coca Cola, was a big hit with the crew. All proceeds after costs are directed to ships recreation fund.

P. Miles Steamed-Fuel Consumed

Pearl Harbor to Johnston Island
888 miles 10244 Gallons

Johnston Island to Patrol area
2858 miles 25888 gallons

Patrol Area
5200 miles 48900 gallons

Patrol Area to Johnston Island
2998 miles 29044 gallons

Johnston Island to Pearl Harbor
888 miles 11100 gallons.

Q. Duration

Pearl Harbor to Johnston Island
2 days

Johnston Island to Patrol Area
8 days

Days in Patrol Area
20 days

Patrol Area to Johnston Island
8 days

Johnston Island to Pearl Harbor
10 days

Days submerged 4 days

Total duration of patrol
40 days.

R. Factors in Duration

Fuel 31200 gallons (prior to refueled at Johnston Island)

Torpedoes 0

Food 21 days

Factor in termination of patrol- All torpedoes expended.

S. Remarks

Another busy and successful patrol for SKATE and her crew. The SKATE has proven a fine example of the advtanges the Balao Class submarine provides in the war on enemy shipping. Coupled with improved torpedo performance, a sense of optimism among veteran crewmembers is present.

The night surface attack has proven yet again an excellent method to interdict enemy shipping, especially now with the new SJ-1 radar and PPI scope. A hope for installation of a Radar Warning Receiver is present, since it appears enemy vessels are now coming equipped with surface search radar, such as the Akatsuki DD.

SKATE was disappointed it did not contact the battleship reported to be transiting the area on 25 December. However, with seven ships sunk, including two large valuable tankers, for a total of nearly 50000 tons in enemy shipping, the boat and her crew are satisfied and ready for next patrol.

Bubblehead1980

10-17-21, 04:11 PM

:Kaleun_Cheers: Cheers bud.
Finishing up the next report. Knocked out one convoy, one singleton, and hit another convoy leaving Rabaul from the south. Got two large AP's before running out of torps. 7 ships in all. Even had a possible encounter with a submerged sub, went down and quiet and let her pass. No clue whether she was friendly or not, but I didnt want to get close enough to find out.

Nice work! I look forward to the report:Kaleun_Salute:

Good move to let the sub pass, if it was enemy, and likely was, hitting them them is pretty impossible (homing torpedo wont go after them, too quiet, trying to remedy that, for late war fun) unless get lucky. I have tried in testing on sonar bearings lol on one had stalking me off Marshall Islands. If they detect you, they will try and stalk you, get in range for a shot. They can make about 9 knots under water like a US sub can, but they do not have limited battery power lol. That one at Marshalls probably stalked me for over 24 hours, until I finally made a high speed run for half the day to open up distance. They will also respond when aircraft etc spot you.

If it was friendly, well obvious do not want to torpedo them, would end your career. Turns out, fratricide is frowned upon in SH 4. lol

How did you detect it? Curious? Sound catch it while submerged, on surface?

In future, I want to see if can get a periscope modeled for the submerged subs, so sticks above water. Also, want add wakes to torpedoes. While Japanese torpedoes had minimal wake, they not not completely wakeless. For me, knowing they are lurking around and can torpedo, really adds to the sim. Make sure to do sound checks myself, trim dives, even sail on a zig zag now instead of strait course. First patrol in SKATE, trim dive saved me on the way from Midway to lifeguard station off Wake Island. Just after diving, I did a manual sound check and heard torpedoes coming in, went to 100 feet, silent running, they passed overhead. Sound then picked up the submarine. I had external cam off, so could only go on sound.

Just wrapped up second patrol in SKATE, which I started on Thursday lol and posted report with some screen shots just a moment ago. Patrol was a busy one for shore, North of Truk December 1943-January 1944. Took down seven ships, five cargo, two tanker.. I was testing the longer sinking times mod ont his patrol with some modifications to it on this patrol, so not quite as easy to sink ships as was before, unless have volatile cargo like tankers, they still blow up nicely, as shown in screen shots. Kind of cool though, they will flood, go dead in water, list, took one an hour to sink. Depends where torpedo hits them etc.

Revus

10-18-21, 07:51 PM

Nice work! I look forward to the report:Kaleun_Salute:

Good move to let the sub pass, if it was enemy, and likely was, hitting them them is pretty impossible (homing torpedo wont go after them, too quiet, trying to remedy that, for late war fun) unless get lucky. I have tried in testing on sonar bearings lol on one had stalking me off Marshall Islands. If they detect you, they will try and stalk you, get in range for a shot. They can make about 9 knots under water like a US sub can, but they do not have limited battery power lol. That one at Marshalls probably stalked me for over 24 hours, until I finally made a high speed run for half the day to open up distance. They will also respond when aircraft etc spot you.

If it was friendly, well obvious do not want to torpedo them, would end your career. Turns out, fratricide is frowned upon in SH 4. lol

How did you detect it? Curious? Sound catch it while submerged, on surface?

In future, I want to see if can get a periscope modeled for the submerged subs, so sticks above water. Also, want add wakes to torpedoes. While Japanese torpedoes had minimal wake, they not not completely wakeless. For me, knowing they are lurking around and can torpedo, really adds to the sim. Make sure to do sound checks myself, trim dives, even sail on a zig zag now instead of strait course. First patrol in SKATE, trim dive saved me on the way from Midway to lifeguard station off Wake Island. Just after diving, I did a manual sound check and heard torpedoes coming in, went to 100 feet, silent running, they passed overhead. Sound then picked up the submarine. I had external cam off, so could only go on sound.

Just wrapped up second patrol in SKATE, which I started on Thursday lol and posted report with some screen shots just a moment ago. Patrol was a busy one for shore, North of Truk December 1943-January 1944. Took down seven ships, five cargo, two tanker.. I was testing the longer sinking times mod ont his patrol with some modifications to it on this patrol, so not quite as easy to sink ships as was before, unless have volatile cargo like tankers, they still blow up nicely, as shown in screen shots. Kind of cool though, they will flood, go dead in water, list, took one an hour to sink. Depends where torpedo hits them etc.

If I remember right, I was just north of the Admiralty/New Hanover gap heading toward Bismark Sea at night. I think I was at 32x TC as I was coming close to where I wanted to go fishing. I got a TC stutter (tell tale sign theres something close, one of those SH things I guess) that tipped me off to come out of TC. Went to sound and got something odd off starboard bow closing slow. I listened for a bit, but it was ridiculously hard to hear. Not screw sounds, but almost sounded electric, moving slow. At first I thought it was extremely far away but the contact bearing line on the map said it was within 2000 yds!!!!!
Thought it could be only one thing, and went down quietly. Followed him cross my bow to port until he couldn't be picked up anymore.
It was super dark with pretty big waves, so even if there were a scope popped up, I wouldnt ever see it. Stayed pretty cautious the rest of the time in that area for the time being lol.

Bubblehead1980

10-18-21, 10:22 PM

If I remember right, I was just north of the Admiralty/New Hanover gap heading toward Bismark Sea at night. I think I was at 32x TC as I was coming close to where I wanted to go fishing. I got a TC stutter (tell tale sign theres something close, one of those SH things I guess) that tipped me off to come out of TC. Went to sound and got something odd off starboard bow closing slow. I listened for a bit, but it was ridiculously hard to hear. Not screw sounds, but almost sounded electric, moving slow. At first I thought it was extremely far away but the contact bearing line on the map said it was within 2000 yds!!!!!
Thought it could be only one thing, and went down quietly. Followed him cross my bow to port until he couldn't be picked up anymore.
It was super dark with pretty big waves, so even if there were a scope popped up, I wouldnt ever see it. Stayed pretty cautious the rest of the time in that area for the time being lol.

Nice. Made for some tense moments eh? Wait until one starts stalking you lol

Revus

10-18-21, 11:21 PM

Bubblehead1980

10-19-21, 02:10 AM

USS Silversides, War Patrol 4:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zq9SOIW3jtVEszAR5FFQ94q0okWwAmZ1/view?usp=sharing

Pics:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15etxFceXejMzeusli4wm9Bngr6cph3BB?usp=sharing

Won't let me access the files. Strange, did last time.

Speaking of AI submarines, just had a run in with a friendly. Attacked a large convoy NW of Truk submerged, hit tanker sunk it. Before went deep after fourth torpedo hit tanker (went up after one but fired a spread since had to fire from 2100 yards instead of 1000) , about ten seconds after my last torpedo hit I heard explosions, sounded like torpedo impacts. , I was searching around and saw smoke but had to go deep as had a escort closing. Pretty soon, another ship sunk marker showed up on them map. Not in my log, was not me, as I fired four bow torpedoes and all hit target. This sunken vessel was astern of me. Sound sweep revealed presence of another submarine on same bearing and in general area of the sinking marker.

Apparently a AI US submarine stumbled upon this convoy as well. I had the external camera off so couldn't take a look, heard it getting depth charged and fired on though.

I have some screen shots will share once back in port, leaving sim running and don't want to tab out, screws sim up, especially since am leaving boat submerged.

I surfaced and did an end around, making a night periscope attack (moon was out, clear, visibility too great with heavy escort screen for surface attack) and sure enough, another ship was missing, besides the tanker I sunk.

Revus

10-19-21, 08:16 AM

Won't let me access the files. Strange, did last time.

Speaking of AI submarines, just had a run in with a friendly. Attacked a large convoy NW of Truk submerged, hit tanker sunk it. Before went deep after fourth torpedo hit tanker (went up after one but fired a spread since had to fire from 2100 yards instead of 1000) , about ten seconds after my last torpedo hit I heard explosions, sounded like torpedo impacts. , I was searching around and saw smoke but had to go deep as had a escort closing. Pretty soon, another ship sunk marker showed up on them map. Not in my log, was not me, as I fired four bow torpedoes and all hit target. This sunken vessel was astern of me. Sound sweep revealed presence of another submarine on same bearing and in general area of the sinking marker.

Apparently an AI US submarine stumbled upon this convoy as well. I had the external camera off so couldn't take a look, heard it getting depth charged and fired on though.

I have some screen shots will share once back in port, leaving sim running and don't want to tab out, screws sim up, especially since am leaving boat submerged.

I surfaced and did an end around, making a night periscope attack (moon was out, clear, visibility too great with heavy escort screen for surface attack) and sure enough, another ship was missing, besides the tanker I sunk.

Lemme try again.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zq9SOIW3jtVEszAR5FFQ94q0okWwAmZ1/view?usp=sharing

Pics: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15etxFceXejMzeusli4wm9Bngr6cph3BB?usp=sharing

That AI friendly sub would have freaked me out haha

Bubblehead1980

10-19-21, 12:09 PM

Lemme try again.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zq9SOIW3jtVEszAR5FFQ94q0okWwAmZ1/view?usp=sharing

Pics: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15etxFceXejMzeusli4wm9Bngr6cph3BB?usp=sharing

That AI friendly sub would have freaked me out haha

Yes, working now. Will read when home, looking forward to it as always.

lol the friendly AI subs will catch you off guard for sure. I was like what the hell is that, took me a sec to say to "oh yea, friendly sub attacked".

This is the first time I have had one surprised me like that in campaign. First time saw one attack was in testing in Sea of Japan in 1945. I set up a wolfpack attack on convoy, with ULTRA messages directing player and all in the campaign.

At ambush point, knew they were there but waited until attacked, to provide distraction. This was tactic US wolf packs used in 1943-1945. Three boats, one would attack, then while being chased, next one would attack, then the next, would take turns basically. They sunk one an damaged one, while most escorts were distracted moved in on surface (night time) and attacked, sinking three ships in fairly quick succession. I had the external cam on for testing, watched the enemy attack the AI subs. Problem is they see them as surfaced units and fire guns at them, drop DC if get close enough. I had the AI subs run to an end point where they delete, to simulate their diving deep to evade. Escorts kept hunting for a few though, was pretty cool. In testing mission, saw one get sunk by gunfire and depth charges. A Kamikaze DD fired some rounds which landed close, one hit conning tower, then rolled above the sub and dropped three charges,saw the AI sub leak oil and sink.

Unfortunately, due to some unresolved issues, did not fully implement wolfpacking into the campaign on this release, but planned for future to be a factor in 1944/45, somewhat in late 1943. Where player receives orders to a certain area as part of "coordinated attack group" . Have to get the surfaced AI US boats firing torpedoes and not causing a CTD.

Bubblehead1980

10-20-21, 10:12 AM

Bubblehead1980

10-22-21, 12:58 AM

TMO 2.5 Update with patch (patch not yet released)
100 difficulty, contacts, cams off.

First patrol of USS Tang SS-306 (Balao) in TMO. Shadowing Tang's real first patrol, went to Wake Island for lifeguard duty for PBY strike(standing in by Coronado flying boats, which bombed Wake in Jan Feb 1944). then proceeded to Truk as Tang did, then on to Saipan and then ended patrol at Midway Island on Mar 3 1944, as Tang actually did. Some of the targets sunk were stand ins for those actually attacked by Tang such as convoy attacked on 17/18 Feb off Truk and 22 Feb off Saipan .

I wrote the this report in O Kane's style, with some modification, after reading all of Tang's reports, which was different than that of other reports have read.

Note, some ship names are different. To keep things fresh, using historical records I have renamed nearly all merchants in forthcoming patch of the TMO update. Also lowered tonnage as the average japanese merchant was not as large as in the first release.

A16-3 U.S.S. TANG (SS 306)
Serial 02 c/o Fleet Post Office
CONFIDENTIAL San Francisco, California

March 3, 1944

From: The Commanding Officer
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet
Via : The Commander Submarine Division 141
The Commander Submarine Squadron 14
The Commander Submarine Force Pacific Fleet
The Commander in Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet

Subject: U.S.S. TANG (SS 306), Report of War Patrol #1.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track charts. (ComSubPac only)

1. Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol of this vessel conducted
in areas north and west of TRUK, and north and west of SAIPAN, during the period
22 January, 1944 to 3 March, 1944, is forwarded herewith.

R.H. O'KANE

Confidential U.S.S Tang

(A) PROLOGUE

After completion of trials December 1, 1943, trained eighteen days in San Diego area,
Arrived Pearl January 8, 1944, and continued training through the 19th, having
fired forty-three exercise torpedoes and conducted night approaches on
approximately half the days underway. Boat provisioned and twenty four MK 14-3A torpedoes loaded. Ready for sea 22 January 1944.

(B) NARRATIVE

Jan 22-29

Left Pearl Harbor at noon on the 22nd and proceeded to WAKE ISLAND at one engine speed.

Jan 29-Feb 5

Arrived off Wake Island at 1400 hours on 29 January, submerged assumed lifeguard station ten nautical miles ESE, closing to six miles and surfacing after night fall. At 0015 hours on Jan 30 SD radar detected the Coronado flying boats which passed over TANG and observed explosions from bombs and Anti-Aircraft fire from Wake Island.
No bombers were damaged or shot down.

Over next few days patrolled area submerged by day, surfaced at night. At 0025 hours on 5 February a second strike by Coronado flying boats occurred and TANG was on lifeguard station again. Again explosions and AA fire were clearly visible in the night. No bombers damaged. Fires were observed burning from Wake throughout the night. TANG released from lifeguard station at 0500 and set cours for patrol area.

Feb 6-9

En route to patrol area North of Truk along the Japan-Truk sea lanes.No contacts except for SD radar at 1100 on Feb 8th and 1231 on Feb 9th. Submerged to avoid both aircraft.

Feb 10

Received a contact report from COMSUBPAC regarding convoy from Guam to Truk and moved TANG to patrol off Ulul Island as this was likely course convoy would take, between Mogami and Gray Feather banks.

Feb 11

Conducted surfaced search near a point seventy nautical miles NW of Ulul Island. Diving twice for patrol aircraft, indicating a possible clearing of the way for a forthcoming convoy.

Attack #1

At 1908 hours on the eleventh, SJ Radar established contact with a convoy bearing 284 degrees at a distance of 28355 yards. Convoy was tracked on a base course of 150 at eleven and half knots, directly for the 'slot' between Mogami and Gray Feather banks off Ulul Island, inbound to Truk. As viewed on the radar PPI screen, convoy was a composed of five large ships with five to six escorts, likely indicating importance. TANG went to General-Quarters-Torpedo and closed on the surface at high speed, submerging to 450 ft to continue high speed speed run to close the distance for firing.
Having successfully slipped through the escort screen, came to periscope depth at 2044 to find a tanker 2500 yards at bearing 040.A quick plot was initiated, and all bow tubes readied for firing. Tanker was identified as being of the 6046 ton HAKKO MARU class on course 150 at 11.5 knots.Torpedo depth was set to eight feet. At 2047, range 1900 AOB 89, fired tubes #1, #2, #3, #4 as individual shots at five second intervals, per TANG's firing doctrine . Points of aim were middle of target, middle of target, stern/stack/bow. At 2048:10 torpedo#1 hit the tanker as it attempted to take evasive action, having spotted the wakes of incoming torpedoes. The torpedo impact set off a massive chain reaction explosion of the tanker's fuel cargo. Torpedoes 2,3,4 all impacted of next fifteen seconds, leaving the tanker a flaming hulk, settling in the war.
Observed tanker sinking until a PC/SC type escort bearing 185 was observed at 1400 yards closing. TANG went deep, rigged for depth charge, and silent running. The craft passed above and dropped a string of depth charges as TANG passed 335 ft, all exploded well above. At 2052, sound reported breaking up noises from bearing of stricken tanker. HAKKO MARU 6046 tons sunk,9-22 N 148-49 E. Over next two hours with TANG at depth of 500 feet, enemy searched and dropped charges but never located TANG.
All clear after periscope and SJ sweep, surfaced at 2355 hours for end around and follow up attack.

Feb 12

Continued pursuit for end around of convoy and follow up attack. While hoped for a night surface attack, the clear conditions, calm seas, heavy escort screen and moonlight night did not permit such tactics.

Attack #2

Finally ahead of convoy, submerged for attack at 0630 hours. A SJ check showed convoy track shifted slightly towards TANG making a bow shot not possible with the flank escort nearby, so turned away to open range for stern shot. Went to 300 feet to avoid escort, which passed astern at estimated 700 yards.TANG came back to periscope depth and observed a sizeable AK. Stern tubes were made ready for firing and target tentatively identified at RYUSEI MARU 7797 tons on base course 155 11.5 knots. At 0705 fired stern tubes #7,8 (MK 14 3-A), range 2800 yards, AOB 91, torpedo depth ten feet. At 0707, both torpedoes' hit amidships of target, five seconds apart. A large fire was visible, appeared internal, with a large hole visible in the fading moonlight, extended from below waterline. Target took a list to starboard and slowed. Enemy escort vessels immediately began closing TANG's position. Tang rigged for depth charge and silent running and just before going deep, observed RYUSEI MARU 4797 tons sink, 8-14 N 149-28 E. As TANG passed 381 feet, a series of large depth charge explosions went off above, shaking the boat. TANG leveled off at 500 feet and began evasive movements. Multiple escorts hunted for TANG for next few hours, alternating attacks, gaining, losing, and regaining contact with TANG. Estimated 181 depth charges were dropped, a few close ones but TANG suffered no damage. At 1300 after some time elapsed since last contact, TANG secured General Quarters and remained at 500 ft until 1600. Attempted to surface to catch up with convoy but multiple aircraft and a surface patrol in the area forced TANG to submerged again until night fall, when TANG surfaced at 2230 and resumed patrol.

Feb 13-16

Resumed patrol North and East of Truk for traffic approaching eastern entrance to the atoll. No contacts were made aside from SD contacts, for which TANG submerged to avoid.

Submerged on morning of the sixteenth for patrol between Truk and Mogami-Gray Feather Banks.

Feb 17

After surfacing at 2200 hours on the evening of the sixteenth, proceeded to patrol on surface along the Truk-Gray Feather, Mogami Banks shipping lanes.

Attack #3

At 0245 on the seventeenth, SJ radar made contact on a convoy bearing 333 degrees at 24300 yards. TANG began closing immediately for night surface attack, called to General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface at 0259.
Convoy was in single column with three large vessels and four or five escorts. At 0334 APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver detected radar emissions from convoy, a escorting DD was equipped with surface search radar. Convoy course 077 at a speed of eight knots. TANG worked ahead and to port side of convoy and moved in when port escort went on a wide sweep, leaving a temporary opening in the screen.
At 0440 all bow tubes readied. Convoy has large AK forward trailed by large AK, which was selected as target. At 0454, with flank escort returning to position and closing TANG, fired Tube #1,#2, #3, #4, at AO identified as KENYO MARU-6486 tons. Range 3500 AOB 50 Torpedo depth 8 ft. All four torpedoes hit the AK's bow, as it slowed in an attempt to evade torpedoes, at 0458, causing large fire and leaving the bow of vessel a wreck and sinking. The lead AK spotted TANG on surface illuminating with spotlight and unleashing inaccurate gunfire as TANG raced across her stern, between her and bow of the stricken tanker to escape on other side of convoy, as a SC/PC type escort was astern pursuing TANG. As TANG was about to cross the AK's stern, noticed the masts and slender bow and heavy bow wake of a DE type vessel closing at high speed , crossing in front of the tanker. Turned TANG to port to minimize broadside and ordered a dive, under heavy fire TANG leveled off at periscope depth temporary and fired tube#5 in a 'snap shot' at the AK from astern 1800 yards AOB 125.Also, observed KENYO MARU slid below the waves. The DE closing in fast, pinging, TANG rigged for depth charge and silent running, large down angle at high speed.As TANG passed 250 feet, several depth charge explosions rocked the sub. Minor damage reported in after torpedo, engine room, and crew berthing. Minor damaged in conning tower. See Major Defects and Damage Section.
Enemy began pinging at 0506, but did not locate TANG at her depth. Depth charge explosions heard in distance.
KENYO MARU 6486 tons sunk at 8-15 N 149-55 E. At 0900, periscope and SJ sweep showed all clear. Secured Silent Running and General Quarters and surfaced. Upon surfacing, set course to assume station off Ulul Island for OPERATION HAILSTONE. TANG's assignment was to intercept shipping that may flee during or after the air strikes on Truk by our carriers. Multiple other submarines are operating in vicinity of Truk for this purpose as well as those specifically assigned to lifeguard duty for downed aircrews.

Attack #4

At 1424 SJ made contact with two pips bearing 024 27,049 yards. Rapid bearing changing indicating fast moving vessels. TANG turned toward contact and at 1426 the APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver began to buzz as radar emissions from coming from the contacts bearing. TANG submerged along the projected track and soon identified a Naka Class CL with an Etorofu Class Type A escort vessel on course 331 at seventeen knots. These ships likely fled Truk Lagoon due to air strikes and were heading right for TANG
Closed target and at 15:01 fired Tubes 3,4,5,6 at range of 1800 yards, AOB 80, torpedo depth 8 feet. Unknown to TANG, a PETE floatplane(spotted on observation to watch the torpedoes impact) , possibly from the CL, was closing above and alerted the enemy cruiser, which attempted evasive action. However, the movement was too late as torpedoes one and two slammed into the stern of the cruiser, which slowed, with a large fire (apparently internal) burning. Torpedo three hit just aft of the bow and torpedo four impacted under the first stack. The cruiser quickly lost way and settled in water, but a fire profusely burning at the stern. With the PETE overhead and the escort closing, TANG rigged for depth charge, silent running, and went deep. At 1504, as TANG passed 300 feet, there was a serious of massive explosions from the last bearing of the CL, followed by more at 1508 and sounds of a ships breaking up. Naka Class CL 5113 tons sunk at 8-45 N 149-22 E. At 1510, the pinging escort located TANG at 450 feet
began dropping the first of over 150 depth charges over next six hours.
TANG suffered serious damage during the attack (see Damage and Defects section) including flooding in conning tower, control room, and forward torpedo room after a close pattern at 1513, with TANG at a depth of 500 ft. Aft torpedo and engine rooms would also take on water after close charges at 1807.Finally, at 2101, with TANG at 611 feet, the enemy escort dropped its last charge and appeared to have lost contact with TANG. Escort continued to hunt the area as TANG, with batteries down to just 15 percent slipped away.

Feb 18-19

Upon coming to periscope depth at 0030, we found that neither No.1 nor No.2 periscopes were operational, damaged in the depth charge attack.
TANG eased to radar depth and detected three pips at 280, 311, 170 , all 10000-12000 yards off. APR-1 detected radar emissions from those bearings as well.
TANG surfaced and set course to the north to conduct repairs and recharge batteries.

By 0900 both periscopes were operational and TANG proceeded back to station. At 1101 on the eighteenth, SJ contact was made on column of ships bearing 000 26500 yards.
TANG closed to find a Task Force of US BB(Iowa Class) , CA, CL , DD , sweeping area as part of HAILSTONE no doubt.
Exchanged recognition signals and proceeded on surfaced patrol until diving to avoid SD Contact at 1833.

Continued patrol north of Ulul Island through the nineteenth.

Feb 20-21

Sent status report to COMBSUBPAC and at 0500 received orders to relocate to new area off Saipan.
TANG set course at one engine speed for a position south of Aguijan Island.

Feb 22-23

Patrolled area of Ajuigan Island, Mariana Islands, after arriving 1600 Feb 21 and through the day of the twenty-second. At 0500 SJ contact with two pips at 19000 yards.
Upon investigation these pips were a patrol of two SC/PC type vessels, TANG avoided.

Attack #5

At 2050 on the twenty second while making a dusk SJ sweep prior to surfacing, SJ made contacts with multiple pips. First two were at bearing 333 10500 yards.
Two pips, appear similar to patrol encountered previously. Second set of pips bearing 046 26000 yards, appears to be convoy.
Patrol consisting of two DE types passed in front of TANG at 2135 range 5000 yards. Convoy was soon passing too close to surface and too far to attack.
TANG went deep to avoid flank escorting DD and surfaced at 2330 for end around.
Upon surfacing, PPI provided picture of five large ships in single column spaced at one thousand yards with four escorts forward, port, starboard, and to the rear.

By 0044 on the twenty-third, TANG was six thousand yard ahead of the convoy pacing, waiting for flank escort to leave a gap in the screen during his "sweep". Convoy on course 219 degrees at ten knots.
At 0151 Radar reported and lookouts observed port flank escort leaving to make his sweep. TANG performed a "dipsy doodle" and turned back into convoy for a stern shot.
At 0205 radar operator and looks out report DD on sweep returning to station at high speed. Thus, TANG selected the lead AK a larger one, estimated 6000 tons to target.

At 0210 Fired stern tubes 7,8,9 range 2500 yards AOB 88 depth 10 ft at AK JOKUJA MARU 6640 tons. At 2012 all three torpedoes impacted target which quickly slowed and caught fire, decimated by the hits. AK then suffered a series of internal explosions, blowing the vessel apart. JOKUJA MARU 6640 tons quick sunk at 0215 14-19 N 144-59 E.
The DD now rushed in following the fireworks courtesy of TANG and closing down TANG's stern fast, but not opened fire nor illuminating. Preparing for dive, fired tube 10 in a "down the throat shot" from 3000 yards at 0215.

At 0216 torpedo missed. Ordered dive to 500 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge. DD passed above at high speed went about 1000 yards and dropped depth charges. Believe his speed was so great overshot TANG. Pinging was heard sporadically but enemy never gained sound contact with TANG.
At 0445 TANG surfaced and began the race to end around for a follow up attack. The flank DD provided excellent screen thwarting TANG's advance several times.
However, by dawn TANG was ahead of convoy and approaching for dawn periscope attack.

Attack #6

TANG submerged at 0930, seven nautical miles ahead of convoy. At 1005 observation, convoy track had shifted, forcing TANG to turn for stern shot. At 1009 escort began pinging. Targeting what appeared be an auxiliary cruiser, fired tubes 7,9 at 2500 yards AOB 82. At 1013 one torpedo impact heard.
At 1014 depth charge attack began with large explosions, astern. TANG depth was 525 ft. 1019 massive series of explosions distant, possibly from vessel (presumed to be Aux Cruiser) hit by torpedo.Aikoku Maru Class Auxiliary Cruiser 14280 tons sunk at 13-46 N 144-27 E. The follow up depth charge attacks were not effective and always removed from TANG's location, at a depth of 525 ft. Secured General Quarters at 1128, maintained silent running.

Throughout the day of the twenty-third when TANG would attempt to surface to pursue rest of convoy, heavy air cover from Saipan/Guam prevented surface running and was unable to regain contact with convoy. Terminated pursuit at 2355 hours.
Surfaced at 2215 and proceeded to area 150 NM West of Saipan in are MAPLE GROVE.

Feb 24

Attack#7

At 0111 on the twenty-fourth SJ radar made contact with a convoy at 13000 yards bearing 010. Convoy on course 052 at seven knots in single column one escort forward, one astern.
TANG astern of convoy, raced up the starboard side at 9000 yards preparing for attack. Large AK, AO in rear of column.
At 0200 fired tubes 1,2,3 range 2500 yards, AOB 75, torp depth 8 ft..all torpedoes expended. At 0202 all torpedoes hit target, which quickly caught fire and lost way. TANG was illuminated by rear AK and came under heavy fire as turned away,
A few errant machine gun rounds were heard hitting the deck. The escorts gave chase but lost contact with TANG in the dark of night. SHOHEI MARU 7256 tons sunk 15-01 N 144-38 E, 60 NM West of Tinian Island.
With all torpedoes expended, set course for Midway at 0300 on the twenty-fourth per operations order.

25 Feb- 3 Mar

En route Midway. No enemy contacts except planes from Marcus Island on Feb 29th. Arrived Midway 3 Mar, terminated war patrol.

(C) WEATHER

Normal for all localities patrolled.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

Normal for all localities patrolled.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDES
None

(F) SHIP CONTACTS

No Time Date Lat Long Types Range Crse Spd How

1. 1908 2/11 9-22N 148-49E AK AO DD SC 28355 150 11.5 SJ
2. 0245 2/17 8-15N 149-55E AK DD SC 24300 077 8 SJ
3. 1424 2/17 8-45N 149-22E CL SC 27049 331 17 SJ
4. 1101 2/18 9-20N 149-20E BB CA CL DD 26500 090 20 SJ *
5. 2050 2/22 14-45N 145-23E DE PC 10500 165 16 SJ/Visual
6. 2050 2/22 14-45N 145-23E AK DD SC 26000 260 10 SJ
7. 0111 2/24 15-01N 144-38E AK DE SC 13000 065 10 SJ

* Contact#4 was US Task Group on sweep of TRUK area as part of HAILSTONE.

(G) PLANE CONTACTS

1. 1346 2/7 14-50n 159-10E Float plane 6 SD
2. 1204 2/14 10-25N 150-23E 24 SD
3. 1346 2/17 8-45N 149-22E PETE float plane 8000 Visual
4. 1050 2/19 8-30N 149-50E 8 SD
5. 1435 2/20 9-18N 149-02E 7 SD
6. 0925 2/21 12-26N 147-06E Flying boat 13 SD
7. 1003 2/21 12-29E 147-05E Flying Boat 12 SD
8. 1050 2/21 12-30N 147-05E 9 SD
9. 1309 2/21 12-38N 147-00E 16 SD
10. 2/22 14-44N 145-25E Many twin engines bombers Visual
11 0830 2/29 22-11N 154-57E EMILY flying boat 11 SD Visual

(H) ATTACK DATA

No. of Torpedo Attacks: 7
Torpedoes fired : 24 MK 14-3A
Torpedo hits: 22
Erratic/Malfunctions: 0

Ships sunk:

1.AO HAKKO MARU 6046 tons 2/11/44 2052 9-22 N 148-49E
2.AK RYUSEI MARU 4797 tons 2/12/44 0715 8-14 N 149-28E
3.AK KENYO MARU 6486 tons 2/17/44 0447 8-15 N 149-55
4.CL Naka Class 5113 tons 2/17/44 1504 8-45N 149-22E
5.AK JOKUJA MARU 6640 tons 2/22/44 0215 14-19N 144-59E.
6.ACA AIKOKU MARU 14280 tons 2/22/44 1019 13-46N 144-27E
7.AK SHOHEI MARU 7256 tons 2/24/44 0210 15-01N 144-38E

(I) MINES

None

(J) ANTI SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

ASW

Enemy ASW on this patrol was somewhat intense. Each contact was escorted, two by radar equipped DD/DE/SC. Air patrols were a consistent irritant.

The counter attack on the 17th by the ETORUFU class Escort (TYPE A) after sinking the CL was intense, persistent, and accurate, causing serious damage to TANG. The escort was obviously equipped with best sonar, passive, and active, as well as manned by a competent Captain and Crew. The depth charging lasted 6 and a half hours and over 150 depth charges were counted. Upon losing contact with TANG, the escort continued to hunt.

Two warships believed to be PC types arrived on scene , most likely from Ulul Island. Likely aircraft were above during the daylight hours as well. When surfaced SJ radar had three surface contacts.

Evasion

TANG's evasion consisted of initial dive to 500 feet, rigged for silent running, with five to ten degrees port or starboard rudder applied at all times, to avoid traveling a strait course, and speed bursts of standard to flank speed as required, primarily when escort was passing above or depth charges were exploding and noise was temporarily masked. The intense depth charging forced TANG to 600 feet to get away from the enemy. Due to flooding, boat wen to 642 feet when damaged trim pump failed. Recovery was made and TANG leveled off at 611 feet, which escort lost contact.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

TANG suffered heavy damage from the depth charge attack on the afternoon of he 17th. Most serious was forward hull damage found upon inspection. Damage repaired during refit at Midway following patrol.

Following damaged suffered on 2/7/44 . All damage repaired at sea unless otherwise noted.

1.Flooding-2 ft water in control room.
2.Flooding-1 ft water in conning tower.
3. Flooding-2 ft water in forward torpedo room.
4.Flooding-8 inches water in aft engine room.
5. Flooding-3 ft water in aft torpedo room.
6.Trimp Pump
7. Hydraulic pump
8. Bow Planes Transmission
9. Stern planes Transmission
10. Rudder Transmission
11. Compressor
12.Radio Receiver-destroyed, replaced at sea.
13.Forward Batteries-Damaged cells, unable to charge abovet 96 percent for duration of patrol.
14. Aft Battery-Damaged cells, unable t charge above 96 percent for duration of patrol.
15.Diesel Engines No. 1 and No. 3 damaged
16. Electric Motors No.2 and No. 4 damaged
17. Bow torpedo tubes #1-#6 damaged. #3 inoperable-repaired.
18. Stern torpedo tubes #7-#10 damaged.
19. Deck mounted hydrophone head damaged, partially functional duration of patrol.
20. No. 1 Observation Periscope disabled-repaired at sea.
21. No. 2 Attack Periscope disabled-repaired at sea.
22.Electrical shorts and grounds throughout boat
23. Piping and high pressure air line leaks throughout the boat.
24. SJ Radar Antenna .

In spite of this serious damage, TANG was back at fighting trim within 72 hours, a testament to her crew.

(L) RADIO

Radio function was excellent until depth charge destroyed receiver. The replacement brought radio back to life. However, performance was degraded.

(M) Sound

Sound conditions were overall excellent. The damage to the topside mounted hydrophone -JP degraded performance to some degree, even after repairs made.

(N) RADAR

SJ-1 Radar performance was excellent, typically detecting targets at 25000-28000 yards.

(O) Density Layers

Density Layers were found at 100, 150, 223, and 290 ft.

(P) PERSONNEL

Crew performance was excellent on this busy, and challenging patrol. One Officer and 18 men achieved qualification in submarines on this patrol.

Officers 8
Chief Petty Officers 10
Total crew 73

(Q) MILES STEAMED-FUEL USED

Pearl Harbor to Wake 4472 miles 29100 gallons
Wake Area 850 miles 8250 gallons
Wake to Truk Area 1293 miles 14337 gallons
Truk Area 2500 miles 28639 gallons
Truk to Saipan 620 miles 10997 gallons
Saipan Area 850 miles 9445 gallons
Saipan to Midway 2591 miles 34837 gallons

(R) DURATION

Days en route to areas 13
Wake 7
North of Truk 4
West of Truk 9
West of Saipan 4
Days submerged 8
Days en route from area 6

(S) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

Torpedoes 0 Fuel 20000 Provisions 40 days Crew Indefinite.

(T) REMARKS

None.

Bubblehead1980

10-23-21, 01:31 PM

TMO 2.5 Update with forthcoming patch.

100 difficulty, contacts off, cameras on for a change

Edited report, some how left out some torpedo data See Attack Section.

USS Tang SS-306
War Patrol Report
Second War Patrol
16 March-17 May 1944
Area VESTIBLE-Philippine Sea.

(A) PROLOGUE

Returned from first war patrol on March 3, 1944 and docked at Midway Island. After repairs and refit, loaded sixteen MK 23-2 torpedoes in forward torpedo room and eight MK 18-2 torpedoes in stern tubes. Ready for sea March 16, 1944.

(B) NARRATIVE

March 16-25

On the morning of the sixteenth, departed Midway for assigned patrol area(Vestible) in the Philippine Sea. Conducted trim dive at 1300 with diving and attack drills from 1400-1630. Over next few days continued en route on steady speed in mostly calm weather of 14 knots. Arrived in patrol area on the evening of the twenty fifth.

March 25-29

Conducted search of the area with no contacts during this period, aside from patrol planes on the twenty-seventh and twenty-ninth, which were avoided by submerging.

March 30

Attack #1

At 0930 on the morning of the thirtieth, SJ made contact on multiple pips at 27345 yards. TANG increased speed and and headed for the contacts. Soon the PPI display showed a formation, that a long with rapidly changing bearing indicating high speed, indicated a task force or important convoy. APR-1 detected radar emissions from bearing of contacts further indicating warships. After racing at high speed to get ahead, TANG submerged and closed for an attack, going to General Quarters. Upon first observation, in the distance about six nautical miles, TANG could see the masts of warships, including in the distance, toward the rear of the single main column, the massive pagoda mast structure of a Japanese battleship. Others ahead in column appeared to be CA or CL with seven or eight DD providing a screen.

TANG went to 200 feet and continued to close at high speed until 1500 yards off projected track, turned to course towards the targets and went to periscope depth. On observation task force appeared to be on course 000 at a speed of twenty knots. On subsequent observations, it appeared the task force's track had shifted towards TANG, requiring a turn to port off the track and switching to stern tube set up. On next observation, the BB was clearly visible and identified as a YAMATO Class Battleship of 63200 tons. A contact report was sent to COMBSUBPAC at 1147. Soon a DD was spotted racing up along side the starboard side of the main body, his track would put him right on top of TANG near time of firing. Gambling the high speed of the DD along with heavy seas would hinder his sound gear and preventing TANG's detection, ordered 100 ft depth and bow pointed towards DD, turning slowly to maintain small profile to beam in case of active sonar use. This depth would also allow TANG to return to periscope depth in time for an attack once DD had passed. DD passed off TANG's bow about 1200-1400 yards.

TANG returned to periscope depth and readied all stern tubes. The BB was clearly visible in he scope. In the main body, a single column of three TAKAO Class CA leading the YAMATO Class BB. (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1) At 1156, fired tubes 7,8,9,10 at BB. At 1159:30-1159:50, four torpedoes hit the BB. Explosions and fires were visible after hits, but vessel seemed to take the hits in stride. Preventing an immediate turn for follow up attack, three DD quickly honed on TANG, forcing TANG to rig for silent running, depth charge, and descend to 500 feet. The initial depth charge attack was accurate, persistent, and intense. TANG went to 575 feet and was able to evade the hunters after a couple of hours.

At 1325, as TANG was ascending to periscope depth, apparently bombed by an aircraft at depth of 250 ft. TANG returned to 500 ft . Enemy DD's arrived in general area hunting for the submarine the aircraft bombed, but did not detect TANG.

Finally at 1804, at periscope depth, to our surprise spotted The BB at bearing 300 9000 yards and apparently dead in the water or moving slowly. TANG went deep and began an approach from starboard side. At 1948, TANG was at periscope depth and just 2000 yards from the stricken BB,, which had a list and was dead in water, but afloat. A DD remained in the area about 4000 yards off searching. (ATTACK No.1-A) At 1950 TANG fired six MK 14-3A torpedoes, all of which hit. TANG went deep after observing impacts. The DD rushed in pinging, but never dropped charges as apparently did not locate TANG. TANG returned to periscope depth at 2035 and located the BB at 6000 yards with heavy list. The DD had since departed the area at high speed to catch up with the rest of the task force.

Only #1 bow tube was reloaded(MK 23-2) at this point, so at 2037 fired one torpedo at target and turned to bring stern tubes to bear, firing four MK 18-2 torpedoes from stern tubes at 2041. All torpedoes impacted, fire visible in bow area, appeared internal. Heavy seas required TANG to to go deeper for torpedo reload. Prior to scope going under, observed a EMILY flying boat arriving in area bearing 200 8000 yards. TANG went to 300 feet to conduct reload.

Half an hour later, came back to periscope depth and prepared to fire bow tubes that were reloaded. SD sweep showed two contacts circling the area at 8000-17000 yards. AS TANG was prepared to fire torpedoes, closing the firing point on the BB, it suddenly rolled over and capsized. The bottom of the hull clearly visible, the BB lingered for about ten minutes before finally disappearing beneath the waves. Time from first torpedo hit to sinking was nearly ten hours. A total of fifteen torpedo hits were obtained on the goliath vessel. The vessel is believed to the the second of the YAMATO Class Battleships, the MUSASHI. MUSASHI and the vessels contacted had fled PALAU in advance of the carrier air strikes (OPERATION DESCRATE).

3/30/1944 21:47 20-29N 133-59E
YAMATO CLASS BATTLESHIP 63,200 tons

SD contacts remained in the area until night fall. TANG surfaced at 2330 and departed area.

March 31-12 May

Patrol in area continued but with no further enemy contacts for duration of time on station, aside from SD contacts made with patrol aircraft. Departed area for Midway at midnight on the sixth of May.

May 13-17

Docked at Midway on the morning of the thirteenth for fuel and departed for Pearl Harbor at 1300. Arrived Pearl Harbor 1600 on the seventeenth, terminated patrol.

(C) WEATHER

Weather conditions varied throughout this patrol in a vast open ocean area. Seas ranged from calm, almost flat like a lake to rough swells which tossed the boat about. Most intense weather was experienced April 20-22 with intense winds, rain, fog, and estimated twenty five foot seas.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

Normal for the area.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

None sighted.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS
.

TIME DATE LOC
0930 3/3/44 20-0N 134-01E

TYPE RNG CRSE SPD HOW
BB/CA/DD 27300 000 20 SJ

(G) PLANE CONTACTS

# DATE TIME LOC TYPE HOW
1.3/20 1101 25-37N 153-51 E --- SD

2.3/27 0901 19-7N 135-15E --- SD

3.3/29 1553 19-59N 132-1E MAVIS SD/Visual

4.3/30 2038 20-29N 133-59E EMILY Visual

5.3/30 2150 20-29N 133-59E --- SD

6.3/30 2150 20-29N 133-59E --- SD

7.4/5 1250 21-29N 131-59E --- SD

8.4/7 0750 18-02N 131-05E --- SD

9.4/25 1650 20-02N 133-25E --- SD

10.4/27 1650 21-22N 133-44E --- SD

11.5/08 1650 27-02N 154-05E --- SD

12.5/10 0621 27-40N 166-10E --- SD

(H) ATTACK DATA

Torpedoes Loaded
MK 23-2 16 (Bow)
MK 18-2 8 (Stern)

Torpedoes Expended: 15

USS Tang SS306 Torpedo Attack No. 1 War Patrol Two
Date 30 March 1944 Time 1157 Lat. 20-29N Long. 133-59E

Description

Task Force of one BB, three CA, seven or eight DD.

Type Attack- Submerged-Periscope in heavy seas.

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged

YAMATO CLASS BB
63,200 tons
3/30/1944
1159:30-1159:50
20-29N 133-59E

Damage verified by:

Observed four MK 18-2 torpedoes impact target via No. 2 Attack Periscope.

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Target Data Torpedo Attack No. 1 (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class YAMATO Class
Type BB
Course 000
Speed 20 kts
Range 1850
AOB 74
Target Bearing 135
Target True Bearing 222

Torpedo Data Attack No. 1

Tube#7
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 11002
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.8230
Gyro 177
Track 32 S
Course 118
Exploder Contact
Depth 25 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark No
Hit amidships

Tube #8
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 10237
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.9855
Gyro 177
Track 32 S
Course 118
Exploder Contact
Depth 25 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
Hit just aft of amidships, under stack. Large explosion and fire.

Tube#9
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 98867
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.9855
Gyro 177
Track 32 S
Course 118
Exploder Contact
Depth 25 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark No
Hit forward under No.2 turret

Tube#10
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 8441
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.8102
Gyro 177
Track 32 S
Course 118
Exploder Contact
Depth 25 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark No
Hit aft turret, fire visible, appeared internal.

Own Data (at firing)

Depth 60 ft
Course 087
Speed 2 kts
AOB 77

USS TANG SS306 Torpedo Attack No.1-A War Patrol One
Date 30 March 1944 Time 1950 Lat. 20-29N Long. 133-59E

Description
Follow up attack on BB attacked in Attack No. 1

Type Attack Submerged-Periscope in heavy seas

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged

YAMATO CLASS BB
63,200 tons
3/30/1944
21:47
20-29N 133-59E

Verified damage by-

Observed six torpedoes impacted target.

Target Data Torpedo Attack No. 1-A (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class YAMATO Class 63200 tons
Type BB
Course 355
Speed 0 kts
Range 2400 yards
AOB 90 S
Target Bearing 0
Target True Bearing 274

Torpedo Attack No. 1-A Torpedo Data

Tube#1
Type MK 23
Serial No. 73390
Exploder MK 6-4
Serial No.6740
Gyro 0
Track 88 S
Course 274
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
None

Tube#2
Type MK 23
Serial No. 73391
Exploder MK 6-4
Serial No.6741
Gyro 0
Track 88 S
Course 274
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
None

Tube#3
Type MK 23
Serial No. 73393
Exploder MK 6-4
Serial No.6743
Gyro 0
Track 88 S
Course 274
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
None

Tube#4
Type MK 23
Serial No. 84400
Exploder MK 6-4
Serial No.8800
Gyro 0
Track 88 S
Course 274
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
None

Tube#5
Type MK 23
Serial No. 84401
Exploder MK 6-4
Serial No. 9445
Gyro 0
Track 88 S
Course 274
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
Appear to start fire in bow area ahead of #1 main turret. Fire appeared internal in nature.

Tube#6
Type MK 23
Serial No. 81847
Exploder MK 6-4
Serial No.2937
Gyro 0
Track 88 S
Course 274
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
Vessel left with heavy list but afloat.

Own Ship Data

Depth 60 ft
Course 273
Speed knts
AOB 90

USS Tang SS306 Torpedo Attack No.1-B
Date 30 March 1944 Time 2037-2041
Lat. 20-29N Long. 133-59E

Description

Follow up attack on BB (Attacks No.1 and 1-A)

Type Submerged-Periscope in heavy seas. Attack consisted of firing one bow tube (#1) and four stern tubes (#7,#8, #9, #10) six minutes apart.

Ships Sunk

YAMATO Class
BB
63,200 tons
3/30/1944
21:47 20-29N 133-59E

Verified by Observed enemy BB capsize and sink one hour and six minutes after the final of fifteen torpedo hits. Several large explosions, assumed to be the BB's magazines detonating were heard throughout the sinking, after vessel capsized. Large oil slicks, debris fields, and fires visible after vessel's hull disappeared beneath the ocean surface.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Target Data Torpedo Attack No. 1-B

Target Data Torpedo Attack No. 1 (at firing)

Target#1
Name/Class YAMATO Class 63200 tons
Type BB
Course 355
Speed 0 kts
Range 1100yards
AOB 90 S
Target Bearing 180
Target True Bearing 268

Torpedo Attack No. 1-A Torpedo Data

Tube#1
Type MK 23
Serial No. 70304
Exploder MK 6-4
Serial No.8339
Gyro 0
Track 88 S
Course 274
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
None

Tube#7
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 81391
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.6741
Gyro 185
Track 90S
Course 272
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
None

Tube#8
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 81393
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.7743
Gyro 185
Track 90S
Course 272
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
None

Tube#9
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 91391
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.9741
Gyro 185
Track 90S
Course 272
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
None

Tube#10
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 82391
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.9799
Gyro 185
Track 90S
Course 272
Exploder Contact
Depth 15 ft
Power Standard
Method Single bearing
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 secs
Actual Actuation Contact
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
Final torpedo fired/hit. Target left with heavy starboard list. One hour after final (15th) torpedo hit, target capsized.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 60 ft
Course 270
Speed 2 knots
AOB 90 S

(I) MINES

No mines encountered.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE AND EVASION TACTICS

Enemy ASW in patrol area was conducted by patrol aircraft, likely from Iwo Jima or Bonin Islands, possibly Northern Mariana Islands. No surface patrols were encountered in the open ocean area TANG was assigned. Patrol planes en route to and from Midway were encountered off Marcus and Wake Islands.

The one enemy counter attack endured, upon torpedoing the BB on March 30, was intense, persistent, albeit shorter in duration than expected. While no damage was suffered, the DD's kept TANG on the run and submerged deep.

Evasion

TANG followed standard evasion procedure by running silent at 500-575 feet, always with five to ten degrees rudder port or starboard at 2.5-3 knots, cautious to keep motors below 100 RPM. This evasion naturally proved successful with just a few charges coming close. TANG suffered minimal damage(See Major Defects and Damage)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

No major defects of damage occurred on this patrol.

Depth charge attack of March 30 caused the following damage:

1.Hydraulic pump
2.SJ-1 Radar Cabinet
3. Dive planes transmission
4. Piping leaks various compartments
5. High pressure airline leaks.
6. Light bulbs and glass fixtures-various compartments.

All damaged repaired at sea.

(L) RADIO

Radio function was excellent

(M) RADAR

SJ-1 Radar performance was excellent on this patrol.

SD Radar performance was excellent on this patrol.

(N) Sound Gear and Conditions

Conditions were overall normal. Heavy seas naturally interfered with sound equipment.

(O) DENISTY LAYERS

Density layers were encountered at 144, 190, 260, 315 ft.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, and HABITABILITY

Excellent

(Q) PERSONNEL

Men on Board------------------------72
Men Qualified at start of patrol ----24
Men Qualified at end of patrol------59
Man Unqualified on first patrol----- 6
Men Advanced in Rating------------18

(R) MILES STEAMED-FUEL USED

Midway to Area
3290 miles 29500 gallons

In Area
5,250 miles 51600 gallons

Area to Midway
3500 miles 33956 gallons

Midway to Pearl Harbor
1350 miles 13874 gallons

(S) DURATION

Midway to Area 10 days
In Area 45 days
Area to Midway 8 days
Midway to Pearl Harbor 4 days
Days Submerged 3 days
Total Days on Patrol 67 days

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE

Torpedoes Remaining 9
Fuel 11,570
Provisions 15 days
Personnel Unlimited

(U) REMARKS

No contacts were made aside from the BB on March 30 in the area. A surprise considering assigned area contains known, very active shipping routes between home islands and Palau Islands. It is possible due to the air raids and mining associated with OPERATION DESECRATE halted traffic. The challenges associated with locating convoys in vast open ocean areas remain a factor, of course.

For photos of attack and sinking of YAMATO. See link below.

https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=250846

Mad Mardigan

10-28-21, 03:37 PM

Sailing on a stormy sea, June '40... to do a 5 day patrol off Sicily.

Patrol area:
https://snipboard.io/kviCIE.jpg

Sub: T class w/ dazzle war paint... HMS Triumph
https://snipboard.io/dzOjYo.jpg

Mod set is: We dive at Dawn.

Bubblehead1980

10-28-21, 04:23 PM

Mad Mardigan

10-28-21, 04:27 PM

Great shots. :Kaleun_Salute:

This, is why I enjoy the availability of the cam views... for grabbing snap shots like this... :shucks: :yep:

:Kaleun_Salute:

M. M.

Bubblehead1980

10-28-21, 10:01 PM

This, is why I enjoy the availability of the cam views... for grabbing snap shots like this... :shucks: :yep:

:Kaleun_Salute:

M. M.

Yes, why I on occasion leave it on as well, for the views. I got some excellent ones, and prob my favorite ever of my sub being depth charged after attacking the YAMATO.

I created a mod to restore the "next unit" (hit the < or >) buttons as well for when testing, or plan to watch battles, makes it easier to observe things.

Quite east to restore it, its in the TMO manual.

Bubblehead1980

10-28-21, 10:15 PM

Because I like to type up patrol notes and convert to report on notepad, but does not always copy and paste well to subsim, just decided to make text file available for download. See link below or go to subsim downloads section. Enjoy.

https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=6008

Bubblehead1980

11-02-21, 02:36 AM

TMO 2.5 Update BH with patch patch (in development)
100 difficulty no cams or contacts.
USS TANG SS-306(Balao Class)

Also testing out a new way of merchant ship ID. To add to the fog of war so to speak and not make ship identification such a sure thing. I have added multiple versions of the ships and they all have nondescript names like "LARGE AK" for large cargo ships, Large AO (for Tankers) etc. with tonnage variations set quite large in their files, so player is crediting with different ships, even if look similar. Provides variety or appearance of variety and
makes identification not so easy, easily at night when it was difficult to identify targets beyond their type such as AO, AK etc.

AK=Cargo Ships
AO=Tanker
AP=Troopship

Just testing, not sure if like it or not yet.

Somehow deleted the data I recorded for my patrol report, so just going with a narrative from memory.

Departed Pearl Harbor on June 8, 1944, set course of patrol area 12 via Midway with orders to operate off KYUSHU as part of a coordinated attack group with SEALION(Area 9) and TINOSA (Area11-A) as required.

Arrived Midway on June 11 and refueled, then proceeded towards area on course. Passed Yakushima Island and transited Colonet Strait night of 23 June, 1944. A rendezvous with SEALION and TINOSA off OINIKI SAKI ( I have made it where when player rendezvous with sub and "drop off" or pick up a raft. Worked in single mission, but in campaign had issues) . A storm system blew into area and was unable to locate other boats. Proceeded via orders to patrol KOSHIKI STRAIT off KYUSHU, submerged at dawn for patrol in the strait.

Sound detected prop noises at 1300 , TANG came to periscope depth and spotted smoke bearing 165 . Went to General Quarters and closed to find a mid sized AK similar to HEITO MARU or KOTO MARU 4200 tons on course 146 at 8 knots. Closed target and fired two MK 23 torpedoes at range of 1000 yards. Both torpedoes hit a minute later, leaving the vessel on fire, listing heavily. Twenty one minutes later, vessel sunk at 31-55N 129-59N in Koshiki Strait. Secured General Quarters and went to 125 feet, leaving area. During periscope observations, spotted a BETTY aircraft patrolling area of sinking.

Surfaced at 2300 and at 2331 SJ made contact on large convoy in KOSHIKI STRAITS. Closed convoy, detecting radar emissions. PPI scope indicated seven large ships with twelve escorts* . TANG moved into position for night surface attack as convoy began to hug the coast of KYUSHU, likely destined for NAGASAKI.

Avoided front of convoy do to radar equipped escort likely in the lead(wish had map contacts on at this point) and attempted to fall in line with port side screen but they closed ranges and TANG was unable to slip through the screen. After several attempts, noticed the rear of convoy a gap in the tail end escorts. Headed opposite direction 8000 yards off port side of convoy, then made a "u turn" and approached from astern at flank speed, waiting for the stern escorts to provide the opening.

Finally after twenty minutes, as convoy made slight zig, turning with the curve of the coast line, the escorts fell out of position slightly and TANG zipped inside at high speed, passing one escort at just 1900 yards , keeping stern pointed at her for low profile. Once inside, increased speed back to flank to catch up to the merchant vessels inside.

Spotted large AP at 0150 and positioned parallel to the vessel, once ahead turned to starboard to bring bow tubes to bear and fired three MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 4,5,6., turning away to open range and stern swinging around in case need follow up attack. Forward of TANG once turn complete was a large AK, , readied tubes 1,2,3,. All three torpedoes hit the AP, which slowed and began to settle. Gunfire, star shells, spotlights, and alarms went off, but TANG was hidden well inside convoy, unseen at moment. Two escorts on port side began dropping large patterns of depth charges. At 0200 , fired tubes 1,2,3 at large AK and swung back to starboard to move ahead towards other ships. During this interim, the AP torpedoed previously suffered a series of explosions and quickly sunk. Multiple rafts spotted in water.

At 0201 all three torpedoes hit the large AK. The forward deck guns and machine guns opened fire on TANG, while another AK illuminated her with searchlights and opened fire TANG raced away at high speed showed stern to present minimal profile to gunners. Check of PPI scope and from bridge shows escort vessels closing fast. TANG continued moving along sighting a large AO, estimated 10000 tons, similar to GENYO MARU.

Moved along side the zigging vessel, brought stern tubes to bear at 2000 yards and fired all four torpedoes. Three of MK 18 torpedoes hit and ships erupted in a massive fireball, igniting as tankers loaded with fuel tend to do.

All torpedo tubes empty, TANG now began racing for a gap in the screen to exit. However, now had three escorts closing. Changed course and put engines on overload, making 22.5 knots, raced away dodging gunfire.

Momentarily, the pursuers lost contact as TANG pulled away and began to reload torpedoes for a follow up attack. Thus far, two of the ships attacked (AP and AK) had sunk. The AO was dead in water, a flaming wreck, but afloat. TANG would reload and close to finish the ship off, if possible. With four bow and two stern tubes now reloaded, headed back into the convoy , initially heading for tanker when sighted a large AK and let three MK 23 torpedoes fly, two of which hit the target setting off massive explosion, TANG turned and managed to evade as an escort rushed into the scene of attack. As TANG progressed along looking for next target in the convoy, dodging escorts , crew reported SD contact. A night flyer coming in.

What to do? Only 60 ft below keels, no place to dive in these calm seas full of alerted escorts. Just continued moving along , hearing an aircraft and spotting it in distance, circling area of last attack. Suddenly sound of its engines was overhead, there was a BETTY , which strafed TANG and dropped bombs/depth charges, which landed about 75 feet off starboard side. ( I had the AA guns mod enabled which set them to act as deck guns) Plane made another strafing run but was apparently out of bombs. However, it alerted escorts which closed in, forcing TANG to run away. During this time aircraft lost contact with TANG but escorts continued at high speed., but TANG remained ahead. However, one pip seemed to be closing fast, a visual check showed a Matsu Class DE closing very high speed from bearing 110. Most likely, this was the radar equipped escort. Turned TANG's stern to 0 AOB on the Matsu and prepared stern tubes (MK 18) for down the throat shot. However, this low aspect apparently caused Matsu to lose radar radar as it soon was observed to slow, drop two patterns of depth charges, then turn back to the convoy. TANG then turned back to finish off the tanker, dead in the water, which had two escorts trolling the general area, one 5000 yards from the doomed AO.

Closed to 3000 yards and just as was preparing to fire a torpedo, she began to sink and within five minutes had disappeared below. With the remaining vessels in convoy several miles ahead, dawn approaching, TANG, having sunk three large AK and one large AO, set course for deeper waters. A nearby escort seemed to grow curious and began closing the scene at high speed, either spotting TANG or was equipped with radar, fired a star shell, then opened fire. TANG turned her stern to target in case a down the throat show was needed and to provide minimal profile. A second and third escort approaching from astern, on each quarters were closing, nearly boxing TANG in. To complicate matters, the Matsu, unseen in some time and presumed to have moved further north with main body of convoy, was observed rushing in a high speed. The three escorts could be out run and were at 4000-6000 yards, but the DE, at 9000 and closing fast, had a far superior speed advantage. TANG turned to present stern and minimal profile to the MATSU, which was presumed to have radar. Making matters more difficult, seas had suddenly picked up, somewhat heavy, which slowed tang to 20.5-21 knots instead of 22.5 was making on overload. TANG had now crossed into slightly deeper waters with 125 feet below keel . The Matsu was at 5000 yards, other escorts at 3800-5500. Suddenly the nearest escort, the TYPE C slowed somewhat, circled and dropped a large pattern of depth charges. The others followed suit. Well, least they were convinced we had submerged.

The DE continued closing. TANG began a slow gentle turn to starboard with five degrees then ten degrees rudder . The DE fired a star shell, then made an abrupt turn to port and began dropping depth charges! Ah, seems they lost radar contact and convinced TANG had submerged. We resumed course and sped away at high speed, relieved. Secured General Quarters and at dawn, submerged South of Goto Islands to avoid the air patrols, numerous of which were spotted through the day during periscope observations.

Ships sunk during Attack No. 1

Large AP 7000-8000 tons
Large AK 6000 tons
Large AO 10000 tons
Large AK 6000-7000 tons.

* In reality, TANG on her third patrol , attacked a large convoy with 12 escorts in Koshiki Straits off Kyushu on 24/25 June 1944 and sunk four ships. This convoy was added as a "historical contact" in TMO Update to allow player chance to try and pull off the attack. As Cdr (later Admiral) O Kane did, approaching from the rear of convoy worked in the updated TMO, with dark nights etc. Night was dark but not super dark, esp after 0400 when quarter moon, albeit with some cloud cover and light fog was out.

Surfacing the evening of the 25th, TANG proceeded to primary patrol area in the Yellow Sea (Area 12) .

At 2305 on 29 June made SJ contact with large AP off DAISEI Islands groups. Closed and due to full moon, submerged in shallow waters, firing three torpedoes, which promptly sunk the 7000-8000 tons AP.

On July 4 sunk a mid sized AK at 36-10N 125-50E and a small AK on July 6 at 37-30N 123-52E.

Only July 8 off the Shantung Promontory, China in the Yellow Sea, sunk a small AO (empty). The AO's small PC type escort hunted tang and dropped depth charges, two close but heavy seas and a thermal layer at 105 feet (max depth 150 ft) helped hide TANG.

On July 10 , TANG sunk a mid sized AK East of Qingdao, China at 36-6N 120-38E in a night surface attack. AK sunk at 0411 hours.

TANG then proceeded back to the Korea coast to avoid ASW efforts off China coast.

On Jul 12 at 1301, in overcast skies with choppy seas, SD failed to detect a closing aircraft until it was 5.5 NM away and lookouts failed as well. Ordered a dive but a close depth charge caused damage , including flooding in forward torpedo room. In shallow waters with flooding, TANG's angle was difficult to correct and collided with bottom at 170 feet. Most serious damage was flooding and sound heads damaged (new damage model, sound heads can be damaged or destroyer) , which did not function properly for res tof patrol.

On July 12th at 2300 made contact with convoy of two shups and one PC type escort off CHOPEKKI POINT, CHOSEN(Korea) . With just 100 ft below keel, opted for night surface attack. Due to speed area, first four torpedoes missed large AK, but two hit the smaller AK of 2500 tons, which quickly exploded and sunk at 36-50N 124-50E. The escort chased TANG, firing her deck gun, but could not make the speed to catch up.

With three torpedoes left aft tracked the remaining AK and at 0425 fired last three torpedoes, all MK 18. Two torpedoes failed to hit, but the third hit amidships. TANG raced away under fire from merchant and escort, losing escort easily again. The AK soon settled in water and fifteen minutes after torpedo hit, slipped beneath the waves. Out of torpedoes, TANG set course for Midway arriving July 24.

Nine ships sunk for just over estimated 55,000 tons.

Fun, busy patrol which somewhat paralleled TANG's real life third patrol.

Bubblehead1980

11-03-21, 09:14 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH w patch (patch not yet released)
100 difficulty.
External Camera and Map contacts off.

From: The Commanding Officer
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet
Via : The Commander Submarine Division 141
The Commander Submarine Squadron 14
The Commander Submarine Force Pacific Fleet
The Commander in Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet

Subject: U.S.S. TANG (SS 306), Report of Fourth War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track chart. (ComSubPac only)

1. Enclosure (A), covering the fourth war patrol of this
vessel conducted in Japanese Empire waters during the period
31 July 1944 to 3 September. 1944, is forwarded herewith.

R. H. O'KANE

(A) PROLOGUE

Returned from third war patrol July fourteenth. The refit
by SubDiv 62 and Submarine Base, Midway, completed on the
twenty-fourth, is considered our finest to date. Conducted
normal training and departed July thirty-first.

(B) NARRATIVE

July 31-August 7

Departed Midway at 1555 on the thirty-first of July. En route to area five at two engine speed.
Conduced training dives and fire control drills dailyand enjoyed yachting weather.

August 8

At 1701 on the eighth, APR-1 detected radar signal. Following soon, SD picked up a aircraft
(Aircraft Contact #1) at ten miles, closing. TANG submerged to avoid,
surfaced an hour later and resume course to area.

Gun Action No.1

At 2218 on the eighth, lookouts spotted a fishing boat bearing 053
at 7000 yards. Called General Quarters-Battle Surface-Gun Action,
and closed target on parallel course. Commenced fire with 40mm, 20mm, and 4" 50 cal gun from range of
2500 yards at 2244. Immediate hits were scored, the vessel caught fired, and wrecked
by a large explosion at 2246, TANG ceased fire just after. Enemy vessel had machine guns visibly mounted,
but were unable to return fire given the surprise and accurate fulsilade from the dark of night.
Fishing Boat (estimated 200 tons) sunk at 2251 hours, position 33-52N 138-01E with no survivors observed.
TANG secured General Quarters and resumed course to area after search.

August 9

Submerged off DAIO SAKI for patrol just before dawn at 0630. After dawn, observed shore batteries and
observation posts on DAIO SAKI, plotted their positions. Spotted aircraft BETTY (Aircraft Contact #2) at 0817.
Surfaced ten miles off DAIO SAKI at 2200, proceeed to sea for recharge and course for OMAE SAKI area.

August 10

Submerged off OMAE SAKI at 0622 hours for patrol. Spotted aircraft(Aircraft Contact No.3)
at bearing 005 9000 yards.

Attack No. 1

Sound detected distant props bearing 344. TANG turned close to close bearing. At 1140 smoke spotted bearing 135, different contact rounding OMAE SAKI.
TANG went to 90 ft at high speed and
turned course to close, going to General Quarters-Torpedo at 1144. At 1237 observed more smoke bearing 140, likely original contact was closing.
Fired tubes (MK 18-2 torpeod) 7,8,9,10 at 1241 and just as was launching, two unobserved twin engine bombers(BETTY)
dropped depth charges about 100 ft to starboard, shaking boat. Ordered emergency depth after final bearing,
and fired remaining tubes as the boat descended to 90 feet, just off the bottom. Torpedo #10 went into circular run after
launch and was heard above TANG. At 1242-1243, three torpedo impacts were heard, followed by multiple large secondary explosions.

Attack No.2

Turning to course 000 at high speed and 90 feet, closing seocnd contact on sound bearings. At 1247 heard two more large explosions from bearing
of first attack. At periscope depth, slowed for observation and spotted AO zigging on course 090 8 knts. Spotted aircraft and forced to return to
70 feet, just off the bottom as closed target. Back at periscope depth, had to fire before the solution deteriorated fruther.
At 1251 fired tubes 1,2,3,4 (MK14-3A). At 1252 observed all four torpedoes impact target. The AO was empty, as did not
'ignite' upon impact or one or two torpedoes as AO typically do when loaded with fuel. TANG turned for deeper waters and went
to 70 feet and increased depth as it became available. At 1311 several large explosions were heard along with breaking up noises from
last bearing of target. Slowed and went to periscope depth, observed the ICHIYU MARU AO sink in the shallow waters by her bow,
just the stern in the air. Sweep of bearing showed the KOTO MARU had sunk as well. TANG went to 125 feet and continued high speed run from the area,
secured General Quarters and began torpedo reload.

At 1350 on the tenth, sound reported fast screws, warships bearing 053 at long range. This was most likely the 'calvary' local patrols responding
to the area after TANG's attacks. Contacts came somewhat close, rigged for silent running and depth charge at 1402.
At 1410 pinging was heard with contacts closing fast. Depth Charge Attack #1 began at 1421 with large patterns, TANG at 350 ft depth.Last depth charge,
out of 251 previous, was at 1533. A relatively brief, but intense attack. A close pattern at 1503 damage aft batteries, caused leakes in various
air and water lines through boat. Trim and Hydraluic pumps also damaged.At 1533 TANG , having made it to deeper waters,
at 600 ft, escorts appear to have lost contact, last ping was ten minutes prior, escorts quiet, above listening.At 1800, secured General Quarters,
and went to 412 feet, maintained silent running.

At 2248 hours on the tenth, came to periscope depth and then radar depth. A sweep with SJ, SD, and sound
showed area clear.Secured Silent Running and surfaced the boat at 2250. Immediately began battery recharge, as batteries were
down to thiretten percent. Set course of SHIONO MASAKI area.

August 11

Arrived ten miles off SHIONO MISAKI 0700 hours. Taking advantage of the dawn fog, closed on surface,
submerging at 0715 for patrol. Surfaced at 2300 set course for DAIO SAKI.

August 12

At 0609 on the twelveth, SJ made contact, two pips, 21000 yards. APR-1 detected radar emissions. TANG submerged at 0615 to avoid the patrol vessels
and start patrol.At 0643, observed a No. 60 Class Subchaser and a W-19 Class Minesweeper on patrol.
1005 spotted same patrol contacted earlier at 7000 yards on course 250. Surfaced at 2300.

August 13

Arrived off Ikobe Coast at 0230 and patrolled, preparing to dive at dawn for patrol.

Gun Action #2

At 0314 observed a fishing boat bearing 047 7500 yards.
Called General Quarters-Battle Surface-Gun Action.
Commenced firing with all guns at 0334, ceased fire 0337.
Fishing boat (estimated 200 tons) sunk at 34-10N 137-25E, 0342 hours.
Submerged at 0625 on morning of the thirteenth for patrol along Ikobe Coast.Surfaced at 2300,
set course of Omae Saki.

August 14
Arrived off Omae Saki at 0530.

Attack #3

At 0615, spotted a large paddle driven coastal cargo steamer rounding Omae Saki. Went to General Quarters-Torpedo.
With dawn breaking, submerged for attack at 0625.Fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at steamer from 800 yards. All four torpedoes impacted as aimed. The armed steamer, with fires burning,
spotted TANG's periscope in the dawn light, illuminated her with searchlight,opened fired with aft mounted three inch deck gun,
and multiple deck mounted machine guns. No.2 Attack scope damaged, knocked out by lucky hit, but later repaired at sea. Tang went to seventy five feet and opened range, before
returning to periscope depth. At 0655, at scope depth, observed steamer sinking, again machine guns opened fire at 1200 yards, TANG went back to 75 feet.
Back at scope depth at 0705, observed steamer sinking by the stern and observed her slip under off Omae Saki. TANG went to 100 feet and conducted high speed run until 0830 to clear the area.

Returned to periscope depth 0946, spotted EMILY flying boat (Aircraft Contact #8) astern. No doubt
hunting for TANG in response to morning attack.Went back to 100 feet for sound sweep with observations every half hour.

Patrol spotted/detected on sound simultaneously at 1400 hours, two SC type vessels.

Attack #4

Sound detected many distant, heavy props bearing 179 at 1535 hours. TANG turned
to close targets.Spotted smoke of AK with multiple escorts at 1600, called General Quarters-Torpedo.
Turned to bring stern tubes to bear to utilize MK 18 torpedoes due to heavy screen and zig by target.Forced to
use No.1 observation periscope due to damage sustained to No.2 Attack periscope earlier in the day. Just was preparing to fire, small PC on
port side spotted the periscope, fired at it from 2000 yards and began pinging. At 1643 fired tubes 7,8,9,10 from 3500 yards, set to account
for possible evasion by target. With escorts closing and a plane spotted, TANG went to the bottom at 165 feet at high speed to reach deep waters. Depth Charge Attack #2 began at 1645, but none were close. At 1646-1647 three torpedo impacts were heard, via sound
and audible through the hull. TANG reached deeper waters fairly quick and went to 350, then 400 feet, as frequent, incessant pinging by escorts continued.At 1651 sounds of ship breaking up astern could be heard, sounds of the merchants engines were gone.
MIIKE MARU sunk 34-36N 137-50E . Two more warship contacts arrived on scene at 1653, possibly patrol responding to attack. These first team contacts closed in on TANG quickly, dropping two large patterns. TANG was badly shaken by the first, then damaged by the second, for at 1702 two close depth charges caused flooding in aft engine rooms.
Damage Control party quickly stopped the flooding (See Defects and Damage Section).

By 1715, TANG was in deeper waters and at a depth of 575 ft, multiple escorts hunting.
Multiple DC explosions in area, but none close. Final depth charge explosion 1844.
ALl but one sound contact left area, one still hunting TANG.
Lost sound contact at 2003, maintained depth of 500 ft and silent running.
Surfaced at 2210, multiple SJ contacts astern at ten miles, set course to open range from coast for repairs and rest.

SD contact at eleven miles holding steady, suddenly began to close range at 2219, TANG submerged to avoid.
Surfaced at 2300, set course to open range with coast.

August 15

Remained offshore to conduct repairs. Submerged after dawn for crew rest, with return to coastal areas
the following day. Just before submerging, SD made contact (Aircraft Contact #9) at 14 NM. Surfaced at 2300, set course for
KANTORI SAKI.

August 16

Submerged six miles off Kantori Saki at 0615 and closed the coast for patrol.

Attack #5

Spotted two patrol vessels at 1310, went to silent running and avoided, as well as two aircraft
(Aircraft Contact #11) at 1340. Believe the patrols were sweeping for convoy, since
at 1334, sound picked up contacts bearing 034 long range and at 1452, spotted smoke bearing 006.
Called General Quarters-Torpedo. Convoy is one AK with four escorts, observed vessels round SHIONO MISAKI,
head for coast of KANTORI SAKI, TANG began to close the range.

At 1603 fired tubes 1,2,3,4 from 2900 yards. Due to escort proximity, to avoid detection and ruining shot,
fired then went to 100 feet and backed away to open range with flank escort. At 1605 four torpedo impacts
were heard, followed by large explosions and breaking up noises. AK MOMOYAMA MARU sunk 3331 N 135-53E.

TANG turned toward deeper waters. Escorts came close but never located TANG , depth charges heard
in the distance. Lost contact at 1830, secured General Quarters 1835. Surfaced at 2227 fourteen miles SHIONO MISAKI, set course
for OMAE SAKI to clear the area.

August 17-18

Received orders at 0400 to proceed to Area 5A to join for coordinated attack on convoys expected
to transit area in coming days. Ordered course 170 at 18 knots to assigned area. Submerged at 0852 to avoid SD contact. (Aircraft Contact #12).
Surfaced 1037. Soon after surfacing, SJ had three contacts which were identified as fishing boats. Called
General Quarters-Battle Surface.

Gun Action #3

Closed three fishing boats on surface at high speed, all guns manned. At 4000 yards all three boats opened fire with machine guns,
TANG replied and commenced firing at 1050, and ceased firing at 1100. Three fishing boats, estimated 200 tons each sunk at
33-31N 135-53E. Secured General Quarters and continued en route to area.

Attack #6 and #6-A

1210 SJ made contact at 28000 yards. APR-1 detecing radar emissions. PPI scope indicates large convoy.
As prepared to dive and attack at 1250, convoy zigged throwing TANG out of position.
This program repeated itself through afternoon, thus TANG pulled ahead to shadow until night fall
for a night surface attack.Submerged at 1800 to avoid SD contact closing from ten miles.
Surfaced at 1820, continued shadowing convoy. Submerged again at 1845 to avoid SD contact.
Surfaced at 1904.Through the afternoon, submerged four more times for
the SD contact, apparently a aircraft assigned to escort the convoy.

2200 Called General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface as night fell. TANG proceeded to close the convoy.

At 0018 on eighteenth of August, TANG was inside the port escort screen when star shells were fired,
signaling TANG had been detected. TANG put overload on engines, and left the closest escort, a TYPE C behind,
continued towards AK was tracking,closing the range to fire, and attack others in convoy if possible.
At 0023 (Attack #6) fired tubes #3, #4 (MK 14-3A) at large AK (possibly KENYO MARU 6486 tons) from 2000 yards and turned
slightly to starboard to avoid the vessel. Just after firing, spotted a large vessel at center of convoy,
which was revealed to be a escort carrier, likely of the TAIYO Class. TANG immediately began tracking
the carrier, preparing to fire two remaining torpedoes at her. At 0024 both torpedoes hit the AK, causing large fires.
The ship began to fire with her aft mounthed three or four inch gun, and deck mounted machine guns, while
illuminating TANG with her spot light as passed astern of the damaged vessel. A few machine gun rounds struck
TANG and one shell came too close for comfort, but caused no damage. Lookouts soon had a DD closing from bearing 200
at high speed, which soon opened fire from about 4000 yards. This forced TANG to fire from 2800 yards, instead
of the planned 2000. At 0027 (Attack #6-A) fired tubes(final two torpedoes) #5,#6 (MK 23-2) at the CVE. Just after firing,
a last explosion astern was audible and flames visible, the AK torpedoed appears to be sinking. With the
DD closing at very high speed, now iluminating TANG and firing from 2900 yards, TANG submerged.
As TANG passed 100 ft, torpedo impact was heard on the CVE's bearing. The second torpedo missed.
TANG contiunued her plunge and leveled off at 500 ft. Over next five hours estimated 200 depth charges were dropped by various escorts,
but only a few were close and no escort appeared to have solid contact on TANG and only minor damage was suffered (See Defects and Damage section)
Believe this is due to the confusion and noise in the water, as TANG was hidiing below the convoy.

At 0700 on the eighteenth, TANG surfaced with one SJ contact at nine miles, apparently a escort holding back to search for TANG.
All torpedoes expended, set course for Pearl Harbor, as fuel status did not require stop at Midway.

(A ship sunk marker appeared on the map for the AK torpedoed in attack 6,
but SH 4 did not award me credit in the log not count toward my tonnage total!
However, vessel did sink.)

August 19-September 3

En route to Pearl Harbor in mostly pleasant weather. Arrived Pearl Harbor Submarine Base at 1100 on September 3rd,
terminated war patrol.

(C) WEATHER

Weather to and from, and in are was nearly completely pleasant, yachting weather.
Seas did briefly pick up in area

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

Tides were normal for the area. The Kuroshio was present as expected.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

Lights were spotted at OMAE SAKI, SHIONO MISAKI, and KATORI SAKI.

(F) ATTACK DATA

TORPEDO ATTACKS

USS Tang SS 306 Torpedo Attack No. 1 War Patrol FOUR
Date 10 August 944 Time 1242 Lat.34-33N Long.138-12E 7500 yards off Omae Saki

Description

Attack on AK rounding Cape Omae Saki, zigging.

Type Attack Submerged-Periscope-Day

Ships Sunk
AK KOTO MARU 4666 tons
34-32N 138-11E off Omae Saki.

Verification

Heard four torpedoes hit followed by large secondary explosions over next ten minutes.
When back at periscope depth for Attack #2, visible oil slick, debris, fire, visible, with superstructure
of the vessel just above waterline, observed vessel sink on next observation.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.1 Target Data (at firing)

AK KOTO MARU 4466 tons
Course 220, zigging
Speed 5 kts
Range 1200
AOB 85 S
Bearing 182
True Bearing 150
Remark
Visible, machine guns mounted bow to stern. Possibly had
hydrophones as began to zig and avoid, when could not have spotted
TANG scope at distance.

Torpedo Attack No.1 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #7
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 11320
Exploder MK 8
Serial No. 71129
Gyro 12 R
Track 85 S
Course 339
Method Single bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI --
Erratic No
Remark

Tube #8
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 11455
Exploder MK 8
Serial No. 71122
Gyro 12 R
Track 85 S
Course 339
Method Single bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI --
Erratic No
Remark

Tube #9
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 11220
Exploder MK 8
Serial No. 71133
Gyro 12 R
Track 85 S
Course 339
Method Single bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI--
Erratic No
Remark

Tube#10
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 11361
Exploder MK 8
Serial No. 71263
Gyro 12 R
Track 85 S
Course 339
Method Single bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit No
POI --
Erratic Yes
Remark
Circular run.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 64 ft
Course 250
Speed 2 kts
Angle 1 degree down
Seas Calm
Depth under keel 65 ft

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS 306 Torpedo Attack No. 2 War Patrol FOUR
Date 10 August 1944 Time 1251 Lat.34-35N Long.138-12E 3440 yards off Omae Saki.

Description

AO inbound to Suruga Bay via Omae Saki.

Type Attack
Submerged-Periscope-Day

Ships Sunk
AO ICHIYU MARU 5113 tons
34-34N 138-13E off Omae Saki.

Verification

Forced to 100 ft by aircraft, sound reporting sinking ten minutes after attack.
Came to periscope depth 25 minutes after attack, stern and stack just visible
above water, rest of vessel submerged off Omae Saki. Large explosions followed over next hour.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.2 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
Course 090 zigging
Speed 8
Range 2461
AOB 90
Bearing 1
True Bearing 31
Remark
Believe tanker was empty, not loaded with fuel as did not 'ignite'
as loaded tankers typically do after one or two torpedo hits.

Torpedo Attack No.2 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #1
Type MK 14-3A
Serial No. 130040
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 12044
Gyro 11 R
Track 101 S
Course 041
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 8ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #2
Type MK 14-3A
Serial No. 130041
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 11223
Gyro 11 R
Track 101 S
Course 041
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 8ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT, forward
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #3
Type MK 14-3A
Serial No.130042
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No.10992
Gyro 11 R
Track 101 S
Course 041
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA Stern-Stack
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 8ft
Hit Yes
POI Stern-Stack
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #4
Type MK 14-3A
Serial No.130043
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No.10999
Gyro 11 R
Track 101 S
Course 041
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA Fore Mast
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 8ft
Hit Yes
POI Fore Mast
Erratic No
Remark
---

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 64 ft
Course 031
Speed 3 kts
Angle 1 down
Seas Calm
Depth under keel

-----------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS 306 Torpedo Attack No. 3 War Patrol FOUR
Date 14 August 1944 Time 0655 Lat.34-35N Long.138-8E Five nautical miles West of Omae Saki.

Description

Unescorted large coastal paddle steamer rounding Cape Omae Saki.

Type Attack
Submerged-Periscope-Night/Dawn

Ships Sunk
Coastal Steamer-Paddle driven.
3500-4000 tons.
34-34N 138-13E
Five nautical miles West of Omae Saki.

Verification

Observed torpedoes hit target. Observed target sink stern first
fifteen minutes after final torpedo impact.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.3 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
Coastal Steamer-Paddle Driven
3500-4000 tons
Course 270
Speed 5 kts
Range 840 yards
AOB 87
Bearing 004
True Bearing 006
Remark
Armed with 3" gun forward. Machine guns, AA guns mounted all sides, astern. Cargo crates on deck.

Torpedo Attack No.3 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #1
Type MK 23-2
Serial No. 113391
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 10008
Gyro 357 L
Track 94 P
Course 359
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT, Stack
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT, Stack
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #2
Type MK 23-2
Serial No. 115006
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No.10888
Gyro 357 L
Track 94 P
Course 359
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA Fore Mast
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI Fore Mast
Erratic No
Remark

Tube #3
Type MK 23-2
Serial No. 117806
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No.107988
Gyro 357 L
Track 94 P
Course 359
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA Aft Mast
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI Aft Mast
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #4
Type MK 23-2
Serial No. 109391
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 10855
Gyro 357 L
Track 94 P
Course 359
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT, aft of stack
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT, aft of stack
Erratic No
Remark
---

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 56 ft
Course 003
Speed 3 kts
Angle 1.5 down
Seas Rough
Depth under keel 50 ft
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS 306 Torpedo Attack No. 4 War Patrol FOUR
Date 14 August 1944 Time 1642 Lat.34-37N Long.137-51E

Description

Large AK-AP with four escorts. Small PC spotted No.1 Periscope and began pinging. Adjusted solution
and fired spread to account for target evasive movements, fired while descending to avoid attack by escorts.

Type Attack
Submerged-Periscope-Day

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
AK-AP MIIKE MARU
11739 tons
34-36N 137-50E

Verification

Three torpedo hits on sound gear and audible through hull, times matched for hitting.
Repeated explosions and sounds of ship breaking up in minutes following the three torpedo impacts.
Only small fast props were heard after impact, indicating engines on target stopped due to damage.

Torpedo Attack No.4 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
MIIKE MARU AK-AP
11739 tons
Course 092
Speed 7 kts
Range 3400
AOB 72
Bearing 177
True Bearing 010
Remark
Large AK-AP of HEIAN MARU Class (?) 4 or possilby 5 inch guns mounted atop superstructure.

Torpedo Attack No.4 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #7
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 116567
Exploder MK 8
Serial No. 112003
Gyro 344 L
Track 94 P
Course 176
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI ---
Erratic No
Remark
Sound confirmed hit.

Tube #8
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 113561
Exploder MK 8
Serial No. 112393
Gyro 344 L
Track 94 P
Course 176
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA Fore mast
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI --
Erratic No
Remark
Sound confirmed hit.

Tube #9
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 117560
Exploder MK 8
Serial No. 113273
Gyro 344 L
Track 94 P
Course 176
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA Aft mast
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit Yes
POI --
Erratic No
Remark
Sound confirmed hit.

Tube #10
Type MK 18-2
Serial No. 120021
Exploder MK 8
Serial No. 111121
Gyro 344 L
Track 94 P
Course 176
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT, stack.
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit No
POI None
Erratic No
Remark
Torpedo missed. Believe torpedo reached end of run as target turned away or missed due
to target slowing after hits from three other torpedoes.End of run and end of run explosion
audible, heard by sound and crew.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 58 ft
Course 175
Speed 2 kts
Angle 1-down
Seas Rough, suddenly calmed between last two observations. Seas were choppy but much calmer on firing observation.
Depth under keel 150 ft.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS 306 Torpedo Attack No. 5 War Patrol FOUR
Date 16 August 1944 Time 1603 Lat.33-31N Long. 135-54E

Description

One AK with four SC and PC type escorts, rounding SHIONO MISAKI approaching KANTORI MISAKI 2500 yards off coast.

Type Attack
Submerged-Periscope-Day

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk

AK MOMOYAMA MARU
4037 tons
33-31N 135-31E

Torpedo Attack No.5 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AK MOMOYAMA MARU
4037 tons
Course 044
Speed 7 kts
Range 2900 yards
AOB 60 S
Bearing 330
True Bearing 276
Remark
Possible error in true bearing due to typo in log.

Torpedo Attack No.5 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #1
Type MK 23-2
Serial No.105005
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 76877
Gyro 335 L
Track 77 S
Course 281
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
POI ---
Erratic No
Remark
Sound confirmed hit.

Tube #2
Type MK 23-2
Serial No.105225
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 734577
Gyro 335 L
Track 77 S
Course 281
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
POI ---
Erratic No
Remark
Sound confirmed hit.

Tube #3
Type MK 23-2
Serial No.105145
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 78877
Gyro 335 L
Track 77 S
Course 281
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
POI ---
Erratic No
Remark
Sound confirmed hit.

Tube #4
Type MK 23-2
Serial No.105695
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 68177
Gyro 335 L
Track 77 S
Course 281
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power Default
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
POI ---
Erratic No
Remark
Sound confirmed hit.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 61 ft
Course 313
Speed 2 kts
Angle 1-down
Sea Condition Choppy

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS 306 Torpedo Attack No. 6 War Patrol FOUR
Date 18 August 1944 Time 0023 Lat.32-30N Long. 138-13E

Description

Large convoy , twelve AK, AO with six escorts.
Radar emissions from convoy, multiple.

Type Attack

Night Surface

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
AK KENYO MARU 6486 tons
32-20N 138-13E

Verification
Observed two torpedoes impact target forward, followed minutes later by large explosions
and fires.Last seen, vessel had down angle by bow, sinking.

Torpedo Attack No.6 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AK KENYO MARU
6486 tons
Course 045-zigging
Speed 6.5 knots
Range 2500 yards
AOB 90
Bearing 0
True Bearing 330
Remark
Possible error in true bearing due to typo in log.

Torpedo Attack No.6 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #3
Type MK 14-3A
Serial No. 105654
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 767670
Gyro 2
Track 85
Course 129
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI Fore Mast-Bow
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #4
Type MK 14-3A
Serial No.1055405
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 76989
Gyro 03
Track 84
Course 130
Method Individual Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth ft
Hit Yes
POI Fore Mast-Bow
Erratic No
Remark
Target probably sunk.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced
Course 150
Speed 22.5 kts
Angle 0
Sea Condition Calm

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS 306 Torpedo Attack No. 6-A War Patrol FOUR
Date 18 August 1944 Time 0027 Lat.32-30N Long. 138-13E

Description

Attack on CVE in large convoy (immediate follow up to Attack #6)

Type Attack

Night Surface-Torpedo

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.6-A Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
CVE TAIYO Class
17,830 tons
Course 045-zigging
Speed 11 knots-zigging
Range 2800 yards
AOB 88
Bearing 0
True Bearing 081
Remark
Possible errors in data, due to log errors made
under combat conditions.

Torpedo Attack No.6-A Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #5
Type MK 23-2
Serial No. 089654
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 767670
Gyro 4
Track 80
Course 145
Method Single bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI ---
Erratic No
Remark
Sound and timing confirmed hit.

Tube #6
Type MK 23-2
Serial No. 869614
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No. 967270
Gyro 4
Track 80
Course 145
Method Single bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit No
POI ---
Erratic No
Remark
----

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced
Course 165
Speed 22.5 kts
Angle 0
Sea Condition Calm

GUN ACTIONS

A total of three gun actions took place during this patrol.

Rounds Expended

4 inch 50 Caliber 64

40mm 653

20mm 1041

Gun Action No.1

Sunk armed fishing boat (200 tons )
2251 8 August 1944
33-52N 138-01E

Gun Action No.2

Sunk Armed Fishing boat (200 tons)
0342 13 August 1944
34-10N 137-25E

Gun Action No.3

Three armed fishing boats (200 tons each)
sunk.1100 8 August 1944
33-31N 135-53E.

(G) Ship Contacts

No. Date Time Type Lat. Long. Crse Spd Rng How Remark

1. 8/8 2223 Fsh. Bt. 33-52N 138-01E 275 6 6000 yd Visual Armed.Sunk by gunfire.

2. 8/10 1140 AK 34-32N 138-11E 180 7 11000 yd Visual Sunk. Attack #1

3. 8/10 1237 AO 34-32N 138-11E 102 8 11500 yd Visual Sunk. Attack #2

4. 8/10 1350 DD?DE?PC?SC? 34-32N 138-8E ? 15+ 8000 yd Sound Depth Charge Attack #1

5. 8/12 0609 SC,MS 34-10N 136-46E 270 14 21000 yd SJ,Visual Daily Patrol

6. 8/13 0320 Fsh.Bt. 34-10N 137-25E 354 7 7000 yd Visual Armed. Sunk by gunfire.

7. 8/13 2030 SC,SC 34-37N 137-34E 271 14 8000 yd Sound,Visual Mikura Class x 2-patrol.

8. 8/14 0615 AK 34-34N 138-10E 270 5 8000 yd Visual Paddle driven coastal steamer.Armed.Sunk Attack #3

9. 8/14 1400 SC,SC 34-37N 137-53E 092 15 9000 yd Sound, visual Coastal Patrol

10. 8/14 1600 AK,SC, PC 34-37N 137-51E 265 8 14000 yd Sound, Visual Sunk AK. Attack #4

11. 8/16 1310 SC, SC 33-33N 135-58E 046 15 7000 yd Sound, Visual Patrol, possible sweep for AK.

12. 8/16 1530 AK, SC, SC 33-33N 135-59E 046 7 21000 yd Visual, SJ Sunk AK, Attack #5

13. 8/17 1035 Fsh.Bt. x3 33-31N 135-53E 200 6 7000 yd Visual Sunk by gunfire.

14. 8/17 1240 AK,CVE,DD,DE,SC 32-30N 138-13E 045 11 24000 yds SJ, Visual. Attacks #6 and 6-A

(H) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

No. Date Time Type Lat. Long. Crse Spd Rng Alt How Remark

1. 8/8 1701 NA 33-42N 138-37E NA NA 12NM NA SD only Emitted Radar signals.

2. 8/9 0817 BETTY 34-15N 136-53E 210 140 9000 yd 1000 Visual Via periscope.

3. 8/10 0835 MAVIS 34-34N 138-10E 235 115 8000 yd 1200 Visual Via periscope.

4. 8/10 1237 BETTY 34-42N 138-11E 180 200 2000 yd 500 Visual Via periscope. Bombed by AC.

5. 8/10 1237 BETTY 34-42N 138-11E 180 200 2000 y 500 Visual Via periscope. Bombed by AC.

6. 8/11 1101 BETTY 34-12N 136-36E 300 150 6000 yd 4000 Visual Via periscope.

7. 8/12 1304 MAVIS 33-25N 135-46E 205 110 4500 yd 1500 Visual Via periscope.

8. 8/14 0946 EMILY 34-34N 138-0E 245 120 4000 yd 1400 Visual Via periscope.

9. 8/14 2215 NA 34-35N 137-46E NA NA 12NM NA SD only ----

10. 8/15 0845 NA 33-24N 137-3E NA NA 14 NM NA SD only ----

11. 8/16 1340 BETTY(x2) 33-33N 135-58E 225/035 140 8000 yd 1000 Visual Two AC sweeping area, possibly ahead of traffic.

12. 8/17 0852 NA 32-17N 137-16E NA NA NA NA SD only. Repeated SD contact.

(H) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

All damage or defect repaired at sea unless otherwise noted.

1.No.2 Attack Periscope head. Damaged by machine gun fire from coastal steamer after torpedo attack.

2.Flooding-2 ft water aft engine room.

3.TPort Propeller Shaft

4.No.1 Diesel

5. No. 3 Diesel

6. Aft Batteries

7.Trim Pump

8. Hydraluic Pump

9.Forward Dive Planes Transmission.

(I) ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Area 5 was heavily patrolled in the coastal shipping routes by ASW vessels, usually in pairs, making daily sweeps.
Twice these patrols were within range to respond to TANG's attacks, locating and attacking TANG.

Air patrols were frequent and combined with surface patrols made operations challenging.

The convoy attacked on 17/18 August was quite large and included a escort carrier, no doubt the source
of the repeated SD contacts through the afternoon of the seventeeth which forced TANG to sumberged repeatedly.

Lead escort (unknown DD or DE) was radar equipped and quickly honed in on TANG during attack on the carrier (Attack #6-A).
The CVE also emitted radar signals, althought it did not seem to detect TANG and is possible it was air search radar.

Submerged evasion was typica for TANG, finding thermal layers, much depth as possible, constant course changes, with adjustments
to dept and speed, and speed bursts when escorts passed overahead and during explosions of DC, when
sound of motors are full power are drowned out by the enemys engines and explosions.

Surface evasion when pursued consisting of overload on engines, bringing TANG to 22.5 knots surface speed
combined with evasive maneuvers, and presenting slim profile/aspect to nearby enemy vessels. Alternating rudder swing of
five to ten degrees port or starboard was used to dodge gunfire, "chasing the splashes" then reversing to confuse
enemy gunners. The low profile of TANG and submarines enable to disappear easily into the dark of
night.

(J) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound conditions were somewhat mediocre in the patrol area with average detection range at seven thousand yards. However, on
certain occasions faint echoes of distant props were heard at estimated twelve to fifteen thousand yards.

These conditions seemed to affect enemy's ability to maintain solid contact with TANG during submerged evasion.

(K) DENSITY LAYERS

Thermal layers were detected at 155, 211, 290, and 341 feet.

(L) RADIO

Radio communication was overal excellent

(M) RADAR

SJ performance was excellent with typical detection in excess of 22000 yards.

SD Radar was satisfactory, typical detection range twelve miles.

(N) PERSONNEL

Crew performance during this realtively short, but very busy patrol was excellent.
Daily prolonged dives in coastal areas, heavily patrolled by enemy, and heavily traveled
by enemy merchant traffic presented a challenge, but one that was met with four ships sunk
in the area, all within a few thousand yards of shore and just a few feet under the keel.

13 men and one officer qualified in submarines during this patrol.

(O) HEALTH AND HABITATABILITY

Overall, excellent.

(P) MILES STEAMED-FUEL CONSUMED

MILES GALLONS
Midway to Area 2960 34565
In Area 4500 49884
Area to Pearl Harbor 4235 56845

(Q) DURATION

DAYS
Midway to Area 9
In Area 9
Days Submerged 10
Area to Pearl Harbor 16

(R) FACTORS IN DURATION

Torpedoes 0
Fuel 31,500 gallons
Provisions 50 days
Crew Indefinite

Factor in termination of patrol- All torpedoes expended.

(S) REMARKS

None.

KaleunMarco

11-04-21, 07:29 PM

Ve vere tasked with patrolling south of Iceland, October 1943.
Not ze best time to be in those wassers.
Ve tracked down zwei Allied convoys and sunk a few ships, but just a few.
Ze verdampt escorts are vicious in zier counterattacks.
so after zwei weeks we headed back to port (La Pallice) however as we are chugging home, our radar detects a single contact, moving at high speed on out port quarter, heading SW.
so, we swing around and close with the contact to identify it.

https://i.ibb.co/1Qx98m9/SH4-Img-2021-11-03-18-15-30-490.png

Gott in himmel...she is enormous! Ze Queen Mary on her way back to North America to bring back more verdampt Canadians (or worse, Americans).

so, we close and submerge...and ATTACK!

There are no escorts so the approach, and the result, is very simple.
https://i.ibb.co/3y4BGS5/SH4-Img-2021-11-03-18-18-38-670.png

This is what makes it a successful patrol!
:Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

11-05-21, 01:08 AM

U.S.S. TANG (SS 306)
c/o Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

A18-21
Serial 019 24 September-16 November, 1944

CONFIDENTIAL

From: The Commanding Officer
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet
Via : The Commander Submarine Division 141
The Commander Submarine Squadron 14
The Commander Submarine Force Pacific Fleet
The Commander in Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet

Subject: U.S.S. TANG (SS 306), Report of Fifth War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track chart. (ComSubPac only)

1. Enclosure (A), covering the fourth war patrol of this
vessel conducted in the Formosa Strait during the period
24 September to 16 November 1944, is forwarded herewith.

R. H. O'KANE

(A) PROLOGUE:

Returned from the 4th patrol on 3 September, 1944 and
conducted normal refit at the U.S. Submarine Base, Pearl
Harbor. Four inch deck gun replaced forward with five inch deck gun forward.
SBT-1 decoy launched installed. In order to take part on the coming Formosa raid
and to be in a position inside the Formosa Straits to
intercept Japanese reinforcements for the coming Philippine
Campaign, training and loading were completed four days in
advance of schedule. Loaded 24 Mark 18 Mod 1 torpedoes
already prepared for the U.S.S. TAMBOR who had been delayed.

(B) NARRATIVE

24 September

1300 Departed for Formosa Strait via Midway, proceeding at
full power to this last fueling base

1700 Trim Dive

1745 Surfaced. Continued en route Midway.

25-27 September

En route Midway, conducted dive and torpedo attack drills.

28 September

0715 After battling heavy seas entering channel, docked at Midway.
topped off fuel provisions.

1230 Departed Midway for patrol area in Formosa Straits (11-B)

29 September-7 October

En route patrol area.

8-11 October

At 0600 on the eighth, TANG first encountered typhoon conditions near position
26-2N 142-13E 40 NM S Haha Jima, Bonin Islands. Conditions persisted until
2230 on the eleventh, with residual heavy seas remaining.

12-15 October

En route patrol area. Submerged at 1621 on 14 October to avoid SD contact
(Aircraft Contact No.1). Surfaced at 2310, proceeded up East coast of Formosa transiting
area between Formosa and Sakishima Gunto through the night of 14/15 October.SD contact made (Aircraft Contact No.2)
1034 on 15 October. Surfaced at 1100, only to have another SD contact (Aicraft Contact No.3)
at 11 NM closing the range fast. TANG submerged to avoid and surfaced at 1145, entering area at noon.

16 October

SD contact made at (Aircraft Contact No.4) 1356. Submerged to avoid, surfaced at 2320.

17-18 October

Surfaced at 2300on the seventeenth after day submerged 6000 yards off Formosa coast with no contacts.

Attack #1

At 2316 on the seventtenth SJ made contact (Contact No.1) on lone pip, TANG turned to close at high speed.
Second SJ contact (Contact No.2) mad at 2332. At 0012 on the eighteenth, identified initial contact as long AO. APR-1
detected radar emissions from other, contact. Possible escort attempting to rendezvous with tanker, off on a "sweep" , or
providing a loose escort. Closed target with decks awash to low profile due to excellent visibility.
Fired Tubes 1,2,3,4 at 0031.All four torpedoes hit at 0032, setting tanker on fire, but without the
expected "boom" that accompanies loaded tankers. Believe tanker is empty of fuel. HAKKO MARU type AO sunk
at 0046 25-11N 120-37E.

Secured General Quarters and departed area. SJ contact (Contact No.4) made at 0433,
patrol, avoided contact. SJ contacted (Contact No.5) Taipei Harbor at 30000 yards at
1050 on the eighteenth. Submerged at 1130 West of Taipei for coastal patrol. Spotted a ZEKE
(Aircraft Contact No.5) at 1432 flying along the coast on course 070. Spotted a BETTY
flying along coast at 1559. At 1824 emergency desecent to 115 ft was ordered after OOD observed
an unknown (Aircraft Contact No.6) via No.1 periscope close aboard, appeared to be diving.
No attack came, but stayed "deep" at 120 ft(10 ft off bottom) for a while and turned
course to open range from coast.Surfaced at 2330.

19 October

Established SJ contact with Hsia-Lun Harbor at 0849 ahead of
submerging for patrol in the area. Submerged at 1145 for patrol.
Surfaced at 2315 into heavy seas, set course away from coast of Formosa for patrol off Chinese
coast and in central Formosa Strait.

20 October

Sumberged patrol in Formosa Strait.

21 October

Attack #2

Established SJ contact on convoy at 0608, convoy appeared to be operating along China Coast.
TANG closed at best speed, somewhat hindered by heavy seas. Ahead of convoy, brought stern tubes to bear
with decks awash at 26 ft. Rough seas made control difficult, but managed. APR-1 detected enemy radar
emissions but TANG was not detected. Convoy is one small AO, leading one mid sized AK, with
three SC type escorts, one minelayer escort. At 0714 fired tubes 7,8,9,10. At 0716, two hits (#8, #10)
on the AO. Fires visible, vessel listing. Tanker did not blow, assume empty.
Immediately turned and fired tube#1, which missed. Escort sped up after TANG, turned away at flank speed.
With heavy seas likely cuausing misses and
need to find deeper waters as dawn approaching, ended attack and opened range.
Due to two solid hits, fires, list and damage, with seas swamping her decks,
it is believed that the AO (SAMUI MARU) likely later sunk.

22 October

Attack #3

1050 SJ contacts bearing 037 28500 yards. APR-1 detecting radar signals,
likely northbound convoy. TANG began closing contacts as dawn broke.
Large convoy of ten to twelve ships in a unusual long single column,
five or six escorts.

At 1136, submerged for attack and worked inside escort screen.
Fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at 1228. At 1230 all four torpedoes impacted target. AO
exploded in the classic fashion of a tanker, quite a large and devastating
explosion. Vessel quickly began to settle into the water. TANG, which began its turn
to deeper waters went to 100 ft, rigged for silent running
and depth charge, but moving at 7 knots for deeper waters. First pings began at 1236.
Deployed decoys SBT-1. Many depth charge explosions astern, enemies took the bait.

Depth Charge Attack #1 began at 1238. At 1248 Damage reported
from close depth charge explosions. See Major Defects and Damage Section.
TANG at 140 ft. By 1400, enemy lost contact with TANG. Secured General Quarters.
Maintained silent running on course to deeper waters.Reached 190 ft by 1448.
Secured from silent running at 1530.

1729 Sound made contact (Contact No.9) with two SC types on patrol, rigged for silent running
and depth charge, went to 120 ft. Lost contact at 1845.Secured silent running.

2300 Surfaced.

23 October

0301 SJ contact (Contact No. 10) with likely patrol vessels. Avoided.

1000 Submerged for patrol.

2300 Surfaced.

24 October

1030 Submerged for patrol.

Throughout the day sounds of heavy props in distance running the
shallow China coast were heard, but TANG was unable to venture
into such areas until night fall and thus contacted no targets
through the day.

Attack #4

While preparing to surface, sound made contact (Contact No.11) with
fast props at 2200, then heavy slowed, at radar depth made SJ contact on large
southbound convoy.Waited for escort to clear area prior to surfacing Surfaced
to move ahead for attack at 2240 on convoy, rehcharged batteries.Approached
convoy from aft-port.For unknown reasons, convoy commander running convoy
in long strung out column, widely spaced. Radar emissions detected
from escorts. At 0154 fired Tubes 3,4,5,6, all hit at 0157. Large AK erupted
into massive explosion. Likely carrying ammunition. Escort close by, astern
of doomed AK, racing, firing star shells, fired at TANG, turned away at high speed.
AK sunk 25-14N 120-01E at 0157 25 October 1944.

Attack #5

Set up to attack AK trailing AK sunk in Attack #4.
Preparing to attack AK from starboard side, escort was now
closing up his port side at high speed. At 0211, TANG
spotted again or detected on radar(APR-1 detected emissions)
by the now identified MIKURA Class Escort. Soon escaped and doubled back
on the target making 12.5 knots. Lined up and at 0238 fired all four stern tubes. Three
of four torpedoes hit, setting vessel on fire. MIKURA Escort and a DE type
just arriving on scene then began closing TANG, while she was under fire from the AK just attacked.
Cleared area and observed target while last reserve torpedo was loaded into tube three. All stern
torpedoes expended, three left forward in tubes 1,2,3.

Attack #5-A and Gun Action #1

Closed damaged AK now identified as KENYO MARU 6200 tons, which was on fire,
listing to starboard, but underway. Fired tube #1 at 0310, torpedo hit at 0312. Moved away but
stubborn vessel refused to sink. With two torpedoes left and escorts now 6000 yards away hunting opposite side, ordered
all guns manned. Opened fire from 4000 yards with the new 5 inch 25 caliber deck gun, 40 mm and 20 mm guns.
Six 5 inch hits and multiple 20 MM 40 MM finished off the KENYO MARU as she capsized. TANG raced away as
escorts rushed in to the scene and a SD contact arrived in area. TANG detected her radar
emissions on APR-1, but the aircraft did not detect TANG. KENYO MARU sunk at 0324 25-13N 120-05E

Gun Action #2

TANG raced SW and to catch up with rest of convoy to use last two torpedoes.
At 540 spotted a large AP on high speed run, apparently seperated from convoy
as nearest escort was 9000 yards ahead. Closed target and opted for gun action,
to save last two torpedoes for a escorted vessel. Opened from from 4000 yards
flooded down to twenty four feet. Scored numerous 5 inch, 40 and 20 MM hits.
Five inch gun concentrated on waterline while the other guns targeted the deck, bridge
etc. After numerous hits, the AP was on fire, sinking, with many rafts in water.
AP SAKITO MARU 8839 tons by gunfire at 25-55 N 119-46E 0601. TANG departed the scene to close
other contacts.

Attack #6

Evaded pesky radar equipped escort and maneuvered in to a group of three AK's on
high speed run. Firing at large AK identified as DAITOKU MARU 6329 tons. Fired
last two torpedoes from tubes #2 and #3 at 0621. Both torpdoes impacted and at
0641 DAITOKU MARU sunk at 24-53N 119-19E. During the interim TANG was pursued by two radar equipped
escorts and fired upon, as well as spotted, illuminated by searchlight, and fired upon by
a mid sized AK. After a prolonged chase, escort lost contact. TANG set course to clear the coast with all torpedoes expended and
daylight approaching.

Gun Action #3

At 0655 spotted a smaller AK trailing 9000 yards behind two large AK with two escorts.
With plenty of of 5 inch ammo aboard, closed target. Target did not appear to have large guns,
TANG flooded to twenty five feet and opened fire with 5 inch, 40 MM and 20 MM guns, with 5 inch concentrating fire on waterline.
at 0725 the AK identified as KANAGA MARU 3924 tons exploded sunk in minutes at 24-55N 119-20E.

At 0730 TANG was now detecting multiple radar emissions concentrating on her bearing, with pips on SJ scope
closing fast. Cloest contact was 4400 yards. TAMG set off with engines on overload, making 22.5 knots,
easily outpacing two escorts, but one matching or exceeding TANG's speed, closing the range.
Brought stern to face this contact, which closed 5500 yards but could not seem to close distance further.
Several shell splashes fell but were not close, so TANG stayed in surface, in lieu of diving in shallow waters.
TANG dropped two decoys along its course.Last shell splash observed at 0801 as target slowed, dropped three patterns of depth charges,
and then went to SW at high rate of speed. TANG continued on slowing to 18 knots, heading for deeper waters.
Tabulation for the attacks of 25 October are four large AK's sunk and one large AP sunk.

The area of attacks was likely quite busy after dawn with ASW activity but TANG had cleared the area
thanks to the high speed dash. With all torpedoes expended, set course for San Francisco via Midway.

26 October-4 November

En route Mare Island via Midway

5 November

1000-1600 Refueled and reprovisioned at Midway. Departed for Mare Island at
1615.

6-16 November

1030 Docked at Mare Island, CA. Terminated patrol

(C) WEATHER

Typhoon conditions were encountered October 8-11 South of Bonin Islands,
with residual heavy seas for a couple of days after. However, weather in area was generally favorable
as well as the transit from area and to Mare Island.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

Tides were normal for the area.

(E) SHIP CONTACTS

NO. DATE TIME LAT LONG TYPE BRG RNG CRSE SPD HOW REMARK

1. 10/15 0135 24-23N 122-139E NA 027 26330 yds NA NA SJ SJ only. Radar emissions from contact Likely ASW patrol.Avoided.

2. 10/17 2316 25-10N 120-2E AO 293 26734 yds 040 8 SJ-Visual

3. 10/17 2332 25-9N 120-39E NA 006 30380 yds NA NA SJ SJ only. Radar emissions.

4. 10/18 0443 25-57N 120-28E NA 010 18200yds NA NA SJ SJ only. Likely patrol, avoided.

5. 10/18 1050 25-19N 121-13E NA 275 30000yds NA 0 SJ Taipei Harbor

6. 10/19 0849 23-38N 119-53E NA 277 31500yds NA 0 SJ Hsia-Lun Harbor

7. 10/21 0608 26-7N 120-16N AK AO SC 020 28500 yds 218 8 SJ Attack #2-Convoy.

8. 10/22 1050 27-20N 121-21E AK AO SC 037 28500 yds 026 9 SJ Attack #3-Convoy.

9. 10/22 1729 27-19N 121-25E SC, SC 240 8500yds 225 15 Sound-Visual ASW patrol.

10. 10/23 0301 26-24N 121-19E NA 353 12500yds NA NA SJ SJ only.Likely ASW patrol.

11. 10/24 2200 25=41N 120-27E AK,AO, 185 9000yds 196 12 Sound-SJ-Visual Attacks #4,#5,#6.
DE,DD,SC Gun Actions #1,#2,#3

(F) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

NO. DATE TIME LAT LONG TYPE BRG RNG CRSE SPD ALT HOW REMARK
1. 10/14 1621 23-250N 122-39E NA NA 16 NM NA NA NA SD SD only.

2. 10/15 1034 25-50N 121-54E NA NA 13NM NA NA NA SD SD only.

3. 10/15 1105 25-52N 121-48E NA NA 12NM NA NA NA SD SD only.

4. 10/16 1356 25-59N 120-53E NA NA 15NM NA NA NA SD SD only.

5. 1018 1432 25-8N 121-6E ZEKE 242 5500yd. 070 175 3000 Visual Periscope No.1

6. 10/18 1559 25-7N 121-3E BETTY 324 3500yd 040 150 2000 Visual Periscope No.1

7. 1018 1824 25-5N 121-0E NA 196 1500yd 220 200 1000? Visual Periscope No 1.

8. 1024 2126 25-41N 120-26E NA 002 5000yd 180 175 1200 Visual Periscope No.1

(G) ATTACK DATA

TORPEDO ATTACKS

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 1 War Patrol FIVE
Date 18 October 1944 Time 0031 Lat.25-10N Long.120-38E in Formosa Strait.

Description

Lone AO with nearby escort, either attempting to locate for rendezvous, on sweep, or providing detached escort.
Due to lack of large explosion after four torpedo hits, believe target was not loaded with fuel or oil.

Type Attack

Night Surface-Torpedo

Ships Sunk

AO HAKKO MARU 6046 tons

Verified by

Oberved torpedoes hit and vessel sink.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.1 Target Data (at firing)

Mid sized AO est. 6000 tons. Possibly HAKKU MARU 6046 tons.
Course 040
Speed 7 kts
Range 2500 yds
AOB 82 S
Bearing 345
True Bearing 303
Remark
None

Torpedo Attack No.1 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #1
Type MK 18-1
Serial No. 899341
Exploder MK MK-8
Serial No. 739375
Gyro 359 R
Track 96 S
Course 316
Method Individual bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 15 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #2
Type MK 18-1
Serial No. 827321
Exploder MK MK-8
Serial No. 714370
Gyro 359 R
Track 96 S
Course 316
Method Individual bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 15 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #3
Type MK 18-1
Serial No. 819343
Exploder MK MK-8
Serial No. 69335
Gyro 359 R
Track 96 S
Course 316
Method Individual bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 15 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #4
Type MK 18-1
Serial No. 819513
Exploder MK MK-8
Serial No. 713702
Gyro 359 R
Track 96 S
Course 316
Method Individual bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 15 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
---

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced-decks awash at 26 ft.
Course 316
Speed 2 kts
Angle 0
Seas Calm

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 2 War Patrol
Date 21 October 1944 Time 0713 Lat.26-10N Long.120-4E Formosa Strait, off China Coast.

Description

Mid sized AK with Smaller AO leading, four escorts. One escort equipped with radar.

Type Attack

Night Surface-Torpedo

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
SAMUI MARU 1458 tons.

Verified by

Two torpedo hits, target on fire , listing hard to port.
Heavy seas and just few hours to dawn prevented further attack, as TANG needed to reach deeper waters.

Torpedo Attack No.2 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AK AKAMA MARU
Course 218
Speed 8.5 kts
Range 3400 yards
AOB 51
Bearing 168
True Bearing 330
Remark

Target#2
AO SAMUI MARU
Course 218
Speed 8.5 kts
Range 2900 yards
AOB 81
Bearing 171
True Bearing 340
Remark

Torpedo Attack No.2 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #7
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.110501
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.104993
Gyro 348
Track 98 S
Course 139
Method Individual bearings-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 8 ft
Hit No
Erratic No
Remark
Fired at Target#1. Heavy seas likely cause of the miss.

Tube #8
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.89921
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.105450
Gyro 348
Track 98 S
Course 139
Method Individual bearings-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 8 ft
Hit No
Erratic No
Remark
Fired at Target #1 Heavy seas likely caused the miss.

Tube #9
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.863921
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.115450
Gyro 348
Track 98 S
Course 139
Method Individual bearings-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
Target#2

Tube #10
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.83321
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.212450
Gyro 348
Track 98 S
Course 139
Method Individual bearings-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
Target#2

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced-decks awash.
Course 130
Speed 3 kts
Angle 0
Seas Rough
Depth under keel 40 ft.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 2-A War Patrol FIVE
Date 21 October 1944 Time 0720 Lat.26-10N Long.120-4E Formosa Strait, off China Coast.

Description

Follow up attack on AO damaged in Attack #2

Type Attack

Night Surface-Torpedo

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.2-A Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AO SAMUI MARU 1458 tons
Course 218
Speed 5 kts
Range 1900 yards
AOB 90
Bearing 0
True Bearing 314
Remark
Damaged in Attack No.2

Torpedo Attack No.2-A Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #1
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.99423
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.10040
Gyro 348
Track 103 P
Course 300
Method Individual bearings-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 6 ft
Hit No
Erratic No
Remark
Immediate follow up after turning away.
Missed, possibly due to heavy seas.

Depth Surfaced
Course 310
Speed 4 kts
Angle 0
Seas Rough
Depth under keel 40 ft.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 3 War Patrol FIVE
Date 22 October 1944 Time 1228 Lat.27-30N Long.121-15E Formosa Strait, off China Coast.

Description

Attack on large convoy of eleven or twelve ships, five escorts.

Type Attack

Submerged-Day-Periscope

Ships Sunk
AO ICHIYU MARU 5113 tons
27-30N 121-15E

Verified by

Observed four torpedoes impact vessel. Vessel exploded on second hit in "tanker fashion".
Massive fireball occurred, tanker quickly settled in water and was sinking on last observation.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.3 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AO ICHIYU MARU 5113 tons
Course 026
Speed 9 kts
Range 2160 yds
AOB 75 S
Bearing 346
True Bearing 284
Remark
Loaded tanker, exploded in fireball after second torpedo hit.

Torpedo Attack No.3 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #1
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.124239
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.11040
Gyro 3 R
Track 92 S
Course 301
Method Constant bearings-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT
Erratic No
Remark
----

Tube #2
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.134233
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.17020
Gyro 3 R
Track 92 S
Course 301
Method Constant bearings-TDC
POA Stern-Stack
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI Stern-Stack
Erratic No
Remark
----

Tube #3
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.128273
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.11447
Gyro 3 R
Track 92 S
Course 301
Method Constant bearings-TDC
POA Stern-Mast
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI Stern-Mast
Erratic No
Remark
----

Tube #4
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.127123
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.21040
Gyro 3 R
Track 92 S
Course 301
Method Constant bearings-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI Mast-Forward
Erratic No
Remark
----

Depth 59 ft
Course 295
Speed 2.5 kts
Angle 2 down
Seas Choppy
Depth under keel 120 ft.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 4 War Patrol FIVE
Date 25 October 1944 Time 0154 Lat.25-14N Long.120-01E Formosa Strait, China Coast.

Description
Attack on large convoy in shallow coastal waters.
Fifteen plus AK with eight to ten escorts.

Type Attack

Night surface-torpedo.

Ships Sunk
AK SHOHEI MARU 7256 tons

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.4 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
Large AK 7200 tons. Possibly SHOHEI MARU
Course 225
Speed 12.5
Range 1846 yds
AOB 86 P
Bearing 10
True Bearing 326
Remark
----

Torpedo Attack No.4 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube # 3
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.130001
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.150010
Gyro 344 L
Track 114 P
Course 300
Method Constant Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT
Erratic
Remark
----

Tube # 4
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.130789
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.152710
Gyro 344 L
Track 114 P
Course 300
Method Constant Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT
Erratic
Remark

Tube # 5
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.141891
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.158712
Gyro 344 L
Track 114 P
Course 300
Method Constant Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT
Erratic
Remark

Tube # 6
Type MK 18-1
Serial No.135789
Exploder MK 8
Serial No.112710
Gyro 344 L
Track 114 P
Course 300
Method Constant Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Spread 0
Power Default
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT
Erratic
Remark

Depth Surfaced
Course 320
Speed 3 kts
Angle 0
Seas Calm.

Note: Torpedo and Target Data for Attacks #4-#6 lost. Due to the dynamic, fast paced
nature of the attacks, was not able to take notes in normal manner. Did note critical data
but apparently deleted it, well saved over the doc. I described the attacks in the narrative
along with the three gun actions.

MK 18 performance was excellent overall. Several misses were attributed to depth keeping difficulties
in the heavy seas. In retrospect, it was in error expended extra torpedoes in heavy sea state with shallow draft
vessels

Gunnery Attacks

Three gun actions were executed during this attack, sinking one entirely and contributing to the sinking
of two others.

The performance of the newly mounted 5" 25 Caliber Deck gun was excellent, the ideal submarine deck gun.
40mm and 20mm performance was excellent as well.

Rounds expended:

5" 25 Caliber 81

40mm 572

20mm 1144

(H) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

There were not major defects on this patrol.

Moderate to serious damage was suffered during Depth Charge Attack #1, most serious of which being
the port propeller shaft, which lingered for the remainder of the patrol, although repaired.

Under normal operating conditions of engines, the damage prevented TANG from exceeding a surfaced speed
of 19.2 knots.With engines on overload, TANG was able for a brief period of time, make 22.5 knots.

All damage listed was repaired at sea, unless otherwise noted.

1. Port Propeller Shaft

2. Stern dive planes transmission-Inoperable after attack.

3. #8 torpedo tube

4. #10 torpedo tube

5. No.1 Diesel

6. No.3 Diesel

7. No.2. Electric Engine

8. No.4 Electric Engine

9.Stern batteries

10. Compressor

11. Trim Pump

12. Hydraulic Pump

13. Compressor

14. High pressure air line leaks.

15. Water piping leaks.

(I) ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Surface and air patrols were persistent in the patrol area, with most being radar equipped.

Depth Charge Attack #1

Enemy escorts quickly detected TANG and mae a persistent depth charge attack. SBT-1 decoys deployed took the brunt,
with over 200 depth charges counted. However, several close charges caused serious but not critical damage.
TANG was in relatively shallow waters with rough seas above, which helped thwart the enemy counter attack, along with
the decoys.

Enemy convoys encountered were well escorted, with at least one escort being equipped with radar,
and multiple in the large convoy attacked on 25 October.
Enemy convoys were never operating in the deeper waters of the Formosa Strait,
but always near the China Coast, confirming intelligence received
from COMSUBPAC on 12 October in evening FOX traffic.Naturally, this make attacking
convoys difficult and much more risky submerged. Use of night surface attacks is the best option
when possible.

Evasion consisted of TANG's stanrdard evasion practices, combined with the new addition of SBT-1 decoys.
A total of five decoys were deployed during the depth charge attack of 22 October, and proved effective in distracting
some of the convoys escorts.

While under pursuit of a radar equipped DE on the morning of the twenty-fifth, decoys were deployed on the surface along TANG's course.
These may have been detected by the pursuing DE as it slowed, dropped several patterns of charges, circled as if hunting, before
departing at high speed to rejoin the convoy.

(J) NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

While no aides were sighted, the harbors of Taipei and Hsia-Lun served as de facto aides
in navigation

(K) RADIO

Radio function was excellent during this patrol.

(L) RADAR

SJ-1 Radar function was superior on this patrol. Typical detection range was in excess of 25,000 yards.

SD radar performance was normal, detecting aircraft at 12-15 NM on average.

(M) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound conditions were overall decent, varying with the sea state in area.

Sound gear performance was top notch until after Depth Charge Attack #1, some
decline in performance was noticed in spite of inspection showing no damage.

(N) THERMAL LAYERS

No thermal layers were detected during this patrol, likely due to the shallow
depths of the area.

(O) PERSONNEL

Crew performance following major crew turnover during last refit period was excellent.

Two Officers and eleven qualified during this patrol.

(P) HEALTH AND HABITATABILITY

Morale was overall excellent through the patrol. Perhaps knowing a extended refit period stateside
was forthcoming following the patrol. Typhoon conditions 8-11 October did provide for difficult sea keeping
but TANG quickly rebounded by time reached patrol area.

(R) (M) MILES STEAMED FUEL CONSUMED

Miles Gallons
Pearl to Midway 1350 19455
Midway to Area 4650 56925
In Area 4400 45295
Area to Midway 4670 58421
Midway to Mare Island 3533 40580

(S) DURATION
Days
Pearl Harbor to Midway 3
Midway to Area 16
In Area 8
Area to Midway
Submerged 5
Midway to Mare Island

(T) FACTORS IN ENDURANCE

Torpedoes 0
Fuel 61855 gallons
Provisions 39 days
Personnel Indefinite

(U) REMARKS

Fifth succeesful patrol for TANG sinking seven ships for 36,461 tons. One other AO was damaged and probably sunk later.

The addition of the new five inch gun forward proved an excellent addition and the perfect submarine deck gun.It is hoped during refit TANG can be
fitted out with a second deck 5 inch gun aft for maximum effectiveness.

Bubblehead1980

11-05-21, 01:57 PM

KaleunMarco

11-06-21, 02:03 PM

next patrol, this Coastal Command B24 approached us from 165 degrees (80 degrees true) mid-morning as we are just about exited from the Bay of Bisque.
we do the usual drill: dive to 50 m, change course by 90 degrees, listen for the depth bombs to be dropped where we used to be, then come back up to periscope depth and find the verdampt zoomie.
this time, when we come back to periscope depth, we are able to find the zoomie. he drops another depth bomb and then pulls up and performs a loop. i swear to God.
i doubt that any model B24 could perform a loop, at any altitude, let alone at sea level. if it wasn't so unexpected, i would have taken a screen shot.
has anyone else seen a bomber perform a loop while on sub patrol?

Bubblehead1980

11-06-21, 02:51 PM

propbeanie

11-06-21, 03:59 PM

There is a B-24 plane set as a divebomber, for the purpose of ASW (in FotRSU, it is now name PB4Y-1 Liberator, flown by the USN). Later in the war, they will have rockets on them. Some fellers like to put cannons on theirs... but they will definitely do some wild maneuvers in the game... One thing to notice about the planes in the game, and that is the SH3 planes are the same as the SH4 planes are the same as the SH5 planes. Gravity does not have a hold on them... Proper flight handling does not apply to them. They are, after all, a "ship" that does not contact the water... lol - the one advantage SH5 has over the others is scripting - if you want to consider that an advantage... :yeah:

Bubblehead1980

11-06-21, 09:56 PM

TMO 2.5 Update with patch (in development)
100 difficulty, cams off, contacts on.

Various screenshots from Tang's fifth and sixth patrols. Ran sixth patrol with camera off and map contacts on for a change.

Fifth patrol was in Formosa Straits, sixth patrol was in Area B7 in South China Sea, Indochina Coast.

In reality, TANG as we know, was sunk on fifth patrol, but was scheduled to end at Mare Island San Francisco, where Tang would undergo overhaul, so I edited files to end at Mare Island and started next patrol almost four months late in March 1945, transferring to Fremantle, conducting war patrol end around off Indochina Coast.

During refit period, added a second 5 inch 25 caliber deck gun aft of conning tower, so now have one forward and one after, plus two 40 mm, one forward, one aft and with the mod, all guns now target surface ships, provides a lot of fire power against surface targets.

On April 3/4, when attacking a convoy, sunk three ships with four torpedoes. (See report in earlier post Attack #4 and #4-A) when two MK-18 which missed initial target(troopship) but soon hit ship apparently loaded with ammo, the massive explosion engulfed a nearby mid sized merchant and a Etorofu escort, causing both of them to eventually sink. Two additional torpedoes fired hit the original target, a large troopship, which would go on to sink as well. In small time span, four ships destroyed by just four torpedoes.

https://i.postimg.cc/d3MXv5RT/5thpatrolmoon.png (https://postimages.org/)
moon in the late AM of 25 October 1944(Fifth patrol)

https://i.postimg.cc/Xvm1cszD/5thpatrolradarscattered1.png (https://postimages.org/) 5th patrol, large convoy scattered. Sunk five ships through the night .

https://i.postimg.cc/vBnqPWR8/5thpatrolsinking1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/DwCMmvdh/5thpatrolstarshells.png (https://postimages.org/)
Star shells fired during fifth patrol attack in Formosa Straits

https://i.postimg.cc/15QTjY5k/Attack1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/fWXp5hZ7/Attack2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/MKm42bnv/Attack3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/W4hfkBXk/Attack4.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Z5YQTBNj/Attack6.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/MZy3Vbbd/Attack7.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/C5Vv9zYG/Attack8.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/m2LjMxrg/Attack9.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/L5ByS26r/convoyleavingsixthpatrol-SF.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/J4xTdrFX/Convoyleavingsixthpatrol-SF2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/nLj0zvhK/Golden-Gate02.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/GmpM0005/Golden-Gate1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/QdVq4p1L/Goldne-Gate03.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/HsdZ2c6H/Kotobuki-Maru1.png (https://postimages.org/) Kotobuki Maru(Conte Verde)

https://i.postimg.cc/x1F6nsnT/Kotobuki-Maru2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/J0qQgxp8/Kotobuki-Maru3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/44bwm4s0/Kotobuki-Maru4-Debris.png (https://postimages.org/) Surfaced hours after attack, located debris field of 18768 ton KOTOBUKI MARU (former Conte Verde)

https://i.postimg.cc/PqgK8PCg/largeconvoysixth1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/nc3kGdsY/PPILate-Attack.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/7Zcnpfn5/Sinking1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/kG9cfzFw/sinking3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/pr2fD8R6/Tangdoubledeckgunsafterfifth.png (https://postimages.org/) Refitted TANG, two five inch deck guns. Used the interior free roam cam to move out for shot. External cam disabled.

https://i.postimg.cc/nzfYhg5Z/Typhoon5thpatrol.png (https://postimages.org/)
Sailing into Typhoon during fifth patrol. October 8-11 1944.(Fifth patrol)

https://i.postimg.cc/W3mmFSLZ/typoon2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bubblehead1980

11-07-21, 05:47 PM

USS TANG SS-306
WAR PATROL REPORT
WAR PATROL SIX
5 MARCH-15 APRIL 1945

(A) PROLOGUE

Returned from FIFTH War Patrol to Mare Island, California on 16 November 1944 for extended overhaul. On 31 January
1945, CDR R.H. O'Kane, USN was relieved as Commanding Officer by LCDR A.J. Winfield. During the refit period, a additional
5" 25 caliber gun was added astern of the conning tower, and the deck 20mm AA gun was removed. A new coat of the M/S 32
paint was added, along with dry docking to replace port prop shaft, damaged on previous patrol by depth charge attack.
CBM W.R. Leibold, USN, relieved CTM W.F. Ballinger, USN, as Chief of the Boat. LT E.H. Beaumont, USN, detached, with ENS I.G. Ford, USNR,
reporting aboard. Subsequent rotations of crew members occurred through the overhaul period. On 2-3 March twenty four MK 18-2 torpedoes
were loaded. Received orders for transfer of TANG to the command of COMSUBSOWESPAC, conducting a war patrol en route to
Fremantle, Australia. Ready for sea 5 March 1945.

(B) NARRATIVE

5 March

Departed Mare Island, CA at 0930 for Guam, en route to patrol Area B7
in South China Sea/Indochina coast. Conducted trim dive at 1615 and surfaced at 1643.

6-21 March

En route Guam from Mare Island, CA, conducting daily dive, torpedo fire control, emergency,
and gunnery drills.

At 0523 on the morning of the thirteenth, SD made contact (Aircraft Contact#2),
and at 0528 spotted a PBY Catalina patrol aircraft, which flew overhead,
exchanged recognition signals.

At 0900 on the morning of the thirteenth, SD made contact (Aircraft Contact#3) at 11 NM.
At 0906 a PBY was spotted bearing 070 closing. Aircraft did not reply to recognition signals,
and appeared to be preparing for attack. As aircraft made attack run, dive alarm was sounde ordered TANG to dive
emergency depth of 250 ft. As TANG passed 155 feet, a large series of explosions, five or six, occurred above and astern.
Boat was severely shaken, but only minor damage occurred (See MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE).This 'Friendly Fire'
incident was promptly reported to COMBSUBPAC but no reply was received until later in the day (1604)

Just before noon (1154) on the thirteenth , sound reported two contacts. At periscope depth, observed two MAHAN Class destroyers astern,
apparently hunting for the submarine bombed by the aircraft a few hours before. TANG went deep, rigged for silent running
and depth charge. Lost contact at 1924. Surfaced into the night at 2300 hours out of caution.

22-24 March

Docked at Guam at 1400 on the afternoon of the twenty second.
Over next forty eight hours refueled, loaded provisions, and
conducted voyage repairs.

25 March

Departed Guam for patrol area at 1130 hours.

26 March-29 March

En route patrol area. Transited Luzon Straits night of 29/30 March.

30 March

At 0000 hours, officially passed into control of COMSUBSOWESPAC.

Attack#1

SJ Contact (Ship Contact No.5) at 28,962 yards bearing 343 at 1429. TANG closed at high speed to
investigate, unsure if contact was enemy or friendly, as enemy shipping had reportedly ceased to using open ocean travel in area,
instead opting for shallows of China coast. APR-1 detected radar signals at 1431, signal indicated not US , but
possibly Allied.

Smoke spotted at 1441 bearing 065. Convoy confirmed as enemy, large AP with multiple escorts
high speed on course 055 19 knots. Submerged at 1500 to close for attack at high speed, depth 300 ft. At periscope depth, target identified as AP KOTOBUKI MARU, formerly Italian Liner SS CONTE VERDE. Escorts are two MATSU Class DE, with two unknown type DE escorting. Fired tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6 at 1523. Ordered depth 400 ft as flank escort returned to position quickly approaching.
to avoid detection and risk alerting target while torpedoes en route. 1526, five out of six torpedo impacts
heard by a massive, prolonged series of secondary explosions. Sounds of vessel breaking up audible, clearly.

Pinging began at 1529. DEPTH CHARGE ATTACK #1 (1530) SBT-1 decoy deployed.
Damage reported at 1538 (see MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE SECTION). TANG at 500 ft depth.
DEPTH CHARGE ATTACK #1 ended 1702. TANG at 550 ft. 1858. Periscope/Radar depth, all clear. Escorts appear to have moved on. Surfaced, set course to search for proof of sinking. Passed through large debris field at 1925, position 19-52N 117-39. Encountered many empty life rafts. Possible few survivors or survivors picked up by escorts. Secured General Quarters and set course for patrol area, conducting repairs.

31 March- 1 April

Entered assigned area B7 (Indochina Coast) just after 0100 on 1 April, set up patrol line within twenty nautical miles of coast. Seas quite heavy, maintained surfaced patrol.

2 April

Attack#2

0100 SJ Contact (Ship Contact No.6) bearing 328. Closed at best speed in heavy seas.
0906 APR-1 detected radar emissions from convoy bearing. At 0240 fired tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6 at mid sized AO and large AP
in center column, middle. At 0244 all torpedoes hit both targets as aimed. The AP quickly took a down angle by bow and sunk in minutes.
The AO, likely empty of oil or fuel, caught fire and listed, but did not immediately sink. AS TANG turned
away to avoid incoming escort, she was illuminated by a merchant in outside column and a large volume of three or five inch gun fire and machine gun fire was poured on TANG from various directions. A few machine gun rounds hit aft of conning tower. With heavy seas preventing a quick surface dash and second escort spotted racing in,
pulled the plug and submerged to 165 feet, just off the bottom. At 0950 , DEPTH CHARGE Attack #2 began. Escort (believed the TYPE C last seen
closing when TANG submerged) roared overhead and unleashed a very large pattern. TANG was shaken but undamaged. No further depth charge attacks
came close to TANG, but explosions were heard astern as TANG made for deeper waters. Believe
the heavy sea state assisted TANG in escaping by fouling enemy sound and sonar gear.

At 0340 Secured Silent Running, began torpedo reload of last four bow torpedoes,
and surfaced at 0530, secured general quarters. Moved ahead for end around, which was made difficult by heavy seas. However, not long after dawn, seas subsided.

At 1500, SJ made two contacts (Ship Contact No. 7), then regained contact with convoy at 1505. The two contacts appear to be making a detached sweep about six miles ahead of convoy. Avoided the "sweepers and began closing the convoy.

Attack #3

Submerged at 1530 for attack and called General Quarters-Torpedo.
Went deep to avoid port flank escort forward, slipped under him undetected.
During slow climb back to periscope depth, brought stern tubes to bear.
At periscope depth, began backing to close targets. Fired tubes, 7,8, 10 at 1637. Tube #9 would not fire
due to previously unknown damage. All three torpedoes hit MADRAS MARU 3807 tons, which quickly began to sink.

Escorts homed in on TANG as she began descent to 500 ft, rigged for depth charge and silent running.
DEPTH CHARGE ATTACK #3 began at 1643 . Enemy escort passed above, dropping charges. TANG at 406 ft.
DC Attack ended at 2200. Surfaced at 0300 for end around. Two SJ contacts, likely escorts still in area hunting.
At 0100 3 April submerged to avoid SD contact. Seems a night flier was dispatched to hunt for TANG.

3 April

Attack #4 and #4-A

While approaching for attack around 0400, TANG was detected on enemy radar , three escorts closed at high speed. TANG turned to avoid, outpacing two, but one was catching. Manned all guns
as had just 70 ft below keel and the firepower of two five inch guns and 40mm guns could provide at least a fighting chance if vessel closed the range.
Fired a down the throat(Attack #4) torpedo shot from 3200 yards and at 0418, torpedo hit the
Etorofu Class Escort, decimating it. Escort quickly went under and exploded.
Two other escorts continued pursuit but slowed when reached the wreck site presumably to pick up survivors. Several depth charges were observed exploding in the distance.

Soon as was five miles away, turned back to close the convoy which was some seven miles ahead. TANG
passed the escorts looking for her at 9000 yards and raced up the stern of the convoy as they turned for Hon Lon Island and shelter of the bay there.
TANG raced to get in a attack before the convoy reached its shelter. As approached to pass the stern escort, APR-1 detected radar signals
emitting from the escorts bearing, TANG gave it a wide berth, and moved on, undetected. Now, 4000 yards astern of the convoy, sighted a large AP, zigging like rest of the convoy. Close to just 2100 yards and as the AP (similar to the KYOKUKO MARU 6783 tons sunk in Attack #2) zigged to port, presenting a favorable angle, fired tubes 1,2,.
However, the torpedoes missed, based on sound reports, just ahead, target had slowed. Adjusted speed from 6 knots to 5.5 in TDC, and fired tubes 3,4, the last of TANG's bow torpedoes.
However, the first two torpedoes went on to hit a large AK identified as 6640 ton JOKUJA MARU, setting off a massive explosion, as the maru was apparently loaded
with volatile cargo, likely ammunition. The conflagration consumed a near by unidentified AK and a Etotorfu type subchaser, setting them both on fire. The second AK soon exploded itself and quickly sunk. The subchaser lost way and eventually capsized. Meanwhile, the last two torpedoes hit the KYOKUYO MARU in the stern, setting her on fire and going down by the stern.
TANG was suddenly illuminated by the spotlight of an AK and came under heavy machine gun and 3 inch gun fire
as she turned away. The stern escort, with its radar was now closing fast on TANG. Several machine gun rounds from the AK hit TANG, but no injuries or
damage occurred. TANG sped away, having sunk four ships with just four torpedoes.

Ships Sunk in Attack #4-A

Etorofu Class Escort (Type A) 860 tons
12-35N 109-38E

Ships sunk in Attack #4-A

All vessels listed below sunk at 12-21N 109-39E.

AK JOKJA MARU 6640 tons

AP KYOKUYO MARU 6783 tons

AK Uknown mid sized estimated 4500 tons.

Etorofu Class Subchaser 860 tons.

Convoy reached the shelter of the bay, TANG headed out to sea to deeper waters as dawn approached.
TANG had five torpedoes left astern, with three tubes operational. Remained further to say through the day
of the third, returned to coastal areas as night fell.

4 April

Attack #5

At 0035, SJ made contact at 25,000 yards on a lone ship, southbound with four escorts. As was racing to catch up
for end around, SJ made contact at 0051 on a large northbound convoy of sixteen ships with eight escorts.
Sandwiched between the two separated by about eight nautical miles, and APR-1 detected numerous radar transmissions,
opted to attack the northbound contact first, go after the southbound if possible. Northbound, likely carrying
troops, equipment to home islands for defense given the Okinawa landings, and of course valuable raw materials and was viewed as the priority.

TANG approached down the starboard side at five miles, planning to infiltrate the screen from astern, when suddenly three of escorts broke up and headed for TANG.
TANG had most likely been spotted on radar. These contacts were closing fast, TANG turned to avoid at high speed. The two closest escorts, identified as TYPE C escorts had solid lock and fired star shells, followed by a few rounds. Although radar guided, they were a bit far ahead. Ordered guns manned to stand by for battle surface, in case were needed, then lined up the escort for a down the throat shot, firing tube #10 from 3500 yards. Torpedo missed! Lined up again and fired tube #7. Missed again.
It is believed the torpedoes, set to minimum depth ran deeper than set.

TANG dropped a decoy along her course, and one of the escorts slowed, while other continued to pursue TANG, firing a few rounds, one of which came somewhat close.
Just as TANG was preparing to return fire with five inch and 40 MM aft guns, the escort slowed, and turned back.
TANG made a gentle turn then raced back at high speed, giving escorts wide berth. The pursuer returned to his station at high speed, as did a incoming third, while the second, which slowed, depth charged the decoy.

Attack #6

At 0400, approached convoy backing towards for to fire final two torpedoes from
stern tubes. A SD contact was reported 5 NM away, a night flier closing fast. Ordered a dive
to avoid. The APR-1 suddenly began buzzing, detecting radar emissions from the contact. As TANG passed
85 feet, multiple explosions went off and at TANG's depth, causing some damage,
see MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE section. TANG leveled off at 125 feet, just off the bottom, more explosions above but not close.
Soon warship contacts on sound closing in, rigged boat for silent running and depth charge.

Escorts arrived in area, pinging, but never seemed to have a fix on TANG. Many depth charge explosions were heard, but none close.
TANG came to periscope depth at 0545, then radar depth. Closest SJ contact was 9000 yards, TANG secured and surfaced, avoiding escorts to close in.
With dawn approaching and clear skies, TANG submerged for attack. Initially picked out a mid size AK of about 4000 tons, but then spotted
AO identified as KIKUSUI MARU 3887 tons. At 0633, fired final two torpedoes from tubes 7 and 8 from 2000 yards. At 0635 both torpedoes impacted target, the AO exploded in tanker fashion, with massive fireball and secondary explosions after first hit,
solidified by the second hit. The AO was obviously carrying a northbound load of oil/fuel. KIKUSUI MARU quickly went under at
14-14N 109-23E.

TANG went to 140 ft just off bottom, heading for deeper waters. A escort located her, pinging, closed fast.
DEPTH CHARGE ATTACK # 4 began at 0643. Multiple large patterns were dropped, shaking boat but no damage. Released three decoys
Several other escorts arrived in area, dropping many charges, a few close ones caused damage (See MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE SECTION)
.However, the large amount of disturbances in water, an decoys, combined with finding waters 200 ft deep with thermal layer at 180 feet assisted
TANG in escaping, with last contact with escort at 0904, last depth charge heard at 0830.
TANG remained submerged until 2300 and surfaced. Torpedoes expended, set course for Fremantle, Australia.

5-15 April

En route Fremantle via Balabac Strait, Sulu and Celebes Seas, Makassar Strait.On the night of 10 April transited Lombok Strait southbound.
Arrived Fremantle, Australia at 1400 on 15 April, 1945. Terminated war patrol.

(C) WEATHER

Weather conditions were favorable for majority of patrol, both during the long transit periods
from the continental US to Guam, Guam to patrol area, in patrol area, and to Fremantle. A few errant squalls were
encountered. The heaviest sea state was encountered during Attack #2.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

Tides were normal and as previously reported in areas.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

Lights were spotted on both sides Lombok Strait which aided in navigation.

(F) ATTACK DATA

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 1 War Patrol SIX
Date 30 March 1945 Time 1530 Lat. 19-52N Long.117-30E

Description

Very large AP with five escorts.

Type Attack

Submerged-Day Periscope

Ships Sunk
AP KOTOBUKI MARU (Former Italian liner SS CONTE VERDE)
18,765 tons
19-52N 117-39E in South China Sea/Luzon Strait. 244 NM SW Takao, Formosa.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.1 Target Data (at firing)

AP KOTOBUKI MARU 18,800 tons
Course 055
Speed 19 kts
Range 2525 yds 7
AOB 75 P
Bearing 019
True Bearing 119
Remark

Torpedoes Expended
Tube No.
#1 MK 18-2 Serial No.115551
#2 MK 18-2 Serial No.114493
#3 MK 18-2 Serial No.116004
#4 MK 18-2 Serial No.118940
#5 MK 18-2 Serial No.119440
#6 MK 18-2 Serial No.112379

Remark
All torpedoes hit as aimed.

Own Ship Data (at firing)
Depth 64 ft
Course 145
Speed 3 kts
Angle 1-down
Seas Calm

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 2 War Patrol SIX
Date 2 April 1945 Time 0240 Lat.14-57N Long.109-18E

Description

Large southbound convoy off Indochina Coast. Fifteen AK/AO/AP, six escorts.

Type Attack

Night surface-torpedo.

Ships Sunk
AO CHIYODA MARU 4700 tons
14-57N 109-18E

AP KYOKUYO MARU 6783 tons
14-57N 109-18E

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.2 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AO CHIYODA MARU 6783 tons
Course 177
Speed 9 kts
Range 3000 yards
AOB 72
Bearing 330
True Bearing 064
Remark
---

Target#2
AP KYOKUYO MARU 6783 tons
Course 177
Speed 9 kts
Range 2400
AOB 84
Bearing 350
True Bearing 084
Remark
---

Torpedoes Expended
Tube No.
#1 MK 18-2 Serial No.111551
#2 MK 18-2 Serial No.123493
#3 MK 18-2 Serial No.112443
#4 MK 18-2 Serial No.119410
#5 MK 18-2 Serial No.113003
#6 MK 18-2 Serial No.119551

Remark

All torpedoes impacted targets as aimed.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced.
Course 092
Speed 4 kts
Angle 0
Seas Rough, heavy.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 3 War Patrol SIX
Date 2 April 1945 Time 0240 Lat.13-37N Long.109-30E

Description

Attack on large convoy.

Type Attack

Submerged-Day-Periscope

Ships Sunk

AK MADRAS MARU 3807 tons

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.3 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AK MADRAS MARU 3790 tons
Course 156
Speed 8 kts
Range 2500 yards
AOB 83
Bearing 170
True Bearing 287
Remark
---

Torpedoes Expended
Tube No.
#7 MK 18-2 Serial No.103343
#8 MK 18-2 Serial No.109945
#10 MK 18-2 Serial No.104456

Remark

All torpedoes hit as aimed.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 64 ft
Course 111
Speed 2.5 kts
Angle 1-down
Seas light chop, mostly calm.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 4 War Patrol SIX
Date 3 April 1945 Time 0418 Lat.12-35N Long.109-38E

Description

Escort pursuing TANG after detecting on radar.

Type Attack

Night-Surface-Torpedo

Ships Sunk

SC Etorofu Cass Escort/Subchaser (Type A)
12-35N 109-38E

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.4 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AK MADRAS MARU 3790 tons
Course 020
Speed 20 kts
Range 3200 yards
AOB 0
Bearing 180
True Bearing 202
Remark
Torpedo hit, target sunk

Torpedoes Expended
Tube No.
#10 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1243971

Remark

All torpedoes hit as aimed.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced.
Course 020
Speed 20.5 kts
Angle 0
Seas Calm

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 4-A War Patrol SIX
Date 3 April 1945 Time Lat.12-21N Long.109-39E

Description

Attack on large convoy.

Type Attack

Night-Surface-Torpedo

Ships Sunk

AK JOKUJA MARU 6640 tons

AP KYOKUYO MARU 6783 tons

AK Unknown Maru 4500-5000 tons

SC Unknown Escort, possibly Etorofu Type A Class Escort.
860 tons

All vessels sunk at 21-21N 109-39E.

Unknown MARU and Escort were destroyed in conflagration resulting from
torpedo hits on AP JOKUJA MARU, likely a ammunition ship.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.4-A Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AP KYOKUTO MARU 6783 tons
Course 145
Speed 8 kts
Range 2000 yards
AOB 0
Bearing 005
True Bearing 198
Remark

Torpedoes #1 and #2 missed, went on to impact
AK JOUJA MARU. Torpedoes #3 and #4 impacted AP KYOKUTO MARU.

Torpedoes Expended
Tube No.
#1 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1113971
#2 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1043971
#3 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1343911
#4 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1300345

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced
Course 194
Speed 8 kts
Angle 0
Seas Calm

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 5 War Patrol SIX
Date 4 April 1945 Time 0315 Lat.14-13N Long.109-22

Description

Escort pursuing TANG after detecting on radar.

Type Attack

Night-Surface-Torpedo

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.5 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
SC Type C Escort
Course 020
Speed 20 kts
Range 3100 yards
AOB 0
Bearing 180
True Bearing 204
Remark
Torpedoes missed, likely ran deep.

Torpedoes Expended
Tube No.
#7 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1233771
#10 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1245772

Remark
Torpedoes missed, possibly ran deeper than set.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced.
Course 025
Speed 20.5 kts
Angle 0
Seas Calm

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS Tang SS-306 Torpedo Attack No. 6 War Patrol SIX
Date 4 April 1945 Time 0633 Lat.14-14N Long.109-23E

Description

Attack on convoy.

Type Attack

Submerged-Night-Periscope

Ships Sunk
AO KIKUSUI MARU 3887 tons
14-14N 109-23E

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.6 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AO KIKUSUI MARU 3887 tons
Course 004
Speed 6 kts
Range 2000 yds
AOB 84
Bearing 175
True Bearing 279
Remark
---

Torpedoes Expended
Tube No.
#7 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1033275
#8 MK 18-2 Serial No. 1145673

Remark
Torpedoes missed, possibly ran deeper than set.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced.
Course 85
Speed 2l5 kts
Angle 1-down
Seas Calm, light chop

(G) SHIP CONTACTS

* Exchanged recognition signals with friendly vessel.

No. DATE TIME LAT. LONG. TYPE BRG RNG(yds) CRS SPD HOW REMARK
1. 3/5 1101 37-48N 122-32W AO,AK,DD 350 10,000 250 9 Vis. Outbound US Convoy*
2. 3/9 0215 32-57N 142-9W AK 002 21,900 090 11 SJ-Vis. SS Alice H. Rice 2738*
3. 3/13 1154 27-33N 165-31W DD, DD 345 9,000 000 16 Sound-Vis. DDx2- MAHAN Class.
4. 3/17 1709 20-5N 171-31E AK, AK 301 25,000 060 10 SJ-Vis. SS Omar Graves/SS Thomas O'Hara*
5. 3/30 1428 19-55N 117-31E AP, DE 300 28,550 055 19 SJ-Vis. Attack #1
6. 4/2 0100 14-52N 109-11E AK,AP,AO 328 27,255 177 9 SJ-Vis SJ-Vis. Attack#2
7. 4/2 1500 13-42N 109-39E SC,SC 005 22,440 177 13 SJ-Vis. Sweepers for convoy.
8. 4/4 0035 13-34N 109-36E NA 330 25,500 190 9 SJ SJ only.
9. 4/4 0051 13-34N 109-36E NA 330 21,250 348 9 SJ-Vis. Attack #5 Attack #6

(H) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

** Exchanged recognition signals with friendly aircraft.

No. DATE TIME LAT. LONG. TYPE BRG RNG CRS SPD ALT HOW REMARK
1. 3/6 0814 36-20N 128-40W PBY 160 11NM 230 105 500 SD/Vis. PBY Catalina-USN**
2. 3/13 0523 27-47N 164-26W PBY 210 14NM 310 110 300 SD/Vis. PBY Catalina-USN**
3. 3/13 0901 27-37N 165-15W PBY 260 11NM 005 120 1000 SD/Vis. Friendly Fire, attacked TANG.
4. 4/3 0300 13-36N 109-25E NA NA 8NM NA NA NA SD SD only, night flier.
5. 4/4 0400 14N-14N 109-23E NA 5NM NA NA NA SD Bombed by night flier, minor damage.

(I) ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

Enemy convoys encountered were well protected with numerous escort and all at had at least one,
sometimes more radar equipped escorts. The radar appeared to have effective range on TANG of about 3500-5000 yards.

Day time air patrol contacts in area did not occurr, however two night time, radar equipped aircraft
were encountered. AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.5 flying low and fast, managed to avoid detection by SD radar
APR-1, and lookouts until very close, resulting in the a late dive by TANG and depth charges/bombs being
dropped close, causing minor damage.

Enemy depth charge attacks were effective, causing damage each time. Depth Charge Attack No.2 knocked stern tube
#9 out of commision for duration of patrol.

Evasion tactics consisting on surface of high speed runs, attacking with "down the throat" torpedo shots,
dropping decoys along course to convince pursuer, if using sonar, TANG had submerged. This tactic worked as one escort was
sunk by torpedo, one stopped to depth charge the decoy, and all others were outpaced by TANG's speed.

Submerged evasion was standard, with high speed runs, constant turn to port or starboard,
dropping of decoys, descending below thermal layers if available, and maximum depth available.

(J) MAJOR DAMAGE AND DEFECTS

No major defects ocurred on this patrol.

Damage

Depth Charge Attack #1

All damage repaired at sea unless noted.

1.Starboard Prop Shaft
2.Port Prop Shaft
3.No.1 Electric Engine
4.No.4 Electric Engine
5.Aft Batteries
6.Stern Dive Planes Transmission
7.Hydraulic Pump
8.High Pressure Air Lines ruptured in Conning tower, Control room.
9.Piping leaks in Conning Tower.

Depth Charge Attack #2

1.Stern Tube #9 disabled, unable to repair at sea.
2.Aft Batteries
3.No.2 Attack periscope
4.Trim pump
5.Minor flooding, forward engine room.
6.Compressor.
7.High pressure air line leaks throughout boat.
8.Piping leaks throughout boat.

Depth Charge Attack#3
1.Minor flooding in conning tower.
2.Ruptured High Pressure Air Lines
3.Forward Batteries
4. Stern Tube #9
5.Stern Tube #10

Attack by aircraft (Air Contact #5)

Close bombs, depth charges went off above.

1.Short Wave Radio Antenna
2.Long Range Radio Antenna
3.SJ Radar Antenna
4.SD Radar Antenna
5.No.1 Periscope
6.No.2 Periscope
7.SJ Radar Cabinet
8.Sonar Stack
9.Torpedo Tube #2
10.Torpedo Tube #5

(K) RADAR

SJ Radar performance was overall excellent through patrol, typically making contact around 22000-25000 yards.

SD Radar was overall satisfactory, although it failed to detect incoming aircraft, resulting
in TANG being bombed.

(L) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound gear performance was excellent overall. Typical detection range was 10000-12000 yards.

Sound conditions were excellent in area.

(M) THERMAL LAYERS

Thermal layers were detected at 140ft and 200ft.

(N) RADIO

Radio performance was satisfactory.

(O) PERSONNEL

Performance of the crew was excellent on this patrol, especially given the long voyage from Mare Island to
Fremantle, conducting a war patrol en route, enduring heavy action.

During the refit period, there was heavy turnover in personnel, and
intense training was conducted prior to patrol, and during the transit to patrol area.

Two Officers and eighteen men were designated as Qualified in Submarines during this patrol.

(P) HEALTH AND HABITATABILITY

Health and morale of crew remained high through the patrol. Food was excellent and in spite of long journey, the
mostly yachting weather and Spring weather provided for overall comfortable conditions aboard.

(Q) MILES STEAMED-FUEL USED

MILES GALLONS
Mare Island to Guam 5100 88250
Guam to Area 2200 41450
In Area 3100 33600
Area to Fremantle 2990 45600

(R) DURATION
DAYS
Mare Island to Guam 17
Guam to Area 7
In Area 3
Submerged 2
Area to Fremantle 10

(T) FACTORS IN ENDURANCE

Torpedoes 0
Fuel 54550 gallons
Provisions 49 days
Crew Indefinite

(U) REMARKS

A long voyage after overhaul stateside, followed by a brief, but intense, busy time in patrol area.
Enemy ASW has improved since last patrol, most noticeably more presence of radar among escorts.

The effectiveness of the four torpedoes fired in Attack #4-A was impressive.
The sight and sound of the conflagration triggered by the massive explosions was unexpected,
and of course the fact it consumed and ultimately sunk two other vessels left us somewhat in awe.
In multiple war patrols, have not observed such a effective result from just just torpedoes as effectively,
two torpedoes sunk three vessels.

Bubblehead1980

11-09-21, 04:17 AM

USS SEAL SS-183
War Patrol Report
War Patrol NINE
August 15-9 October 1943

A. PROLOGUE

Returned to Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. from EIGHTH War Patrol on 28 July 1943.Normal refit and repairs conducted at Submarine Base.
SEAL received eight of the new MK 18 electric torpedoes (four forward, four aft) loaded along with fourteen
MK 13-2A torpedoes. Ready for sea 15 August 1943.

B. NARRATIVE

August 15, 1943

1300 Departed Pearl Harbor, T.H for patrol area via Midway Island.

1700 Trim dive

1725 Surfaced.

August 16-18 1943

Conducted dive, torpedo fire control, gunnery, and emergency drills en route Midway Island.

August 19, 1943

0800-1220 Refueled at Midway. Departed at 1230 for patrol area in Kuril Islands/Sea of Okhotsk.

August 20, 1943

En route patrol area.

0900 Entered a rain squall.Calm seas, light wind, heavy rain with heavy fog.

1100 Cleared squall.

August 21, 1943

En route patrol area.

August 22, 1943

En route patrol area.

August 23, 1943

En route patrol area.

August 24, 1943

En route patrol area.

August 25, 1943

En route patrol area.

August 26, 1943

En route patrol area.

August 27, 1943

0300 Entered patrol area Sea of Okhotsk-Southern Kuril Islands.

August 28, 1943

1833 SJ contact bearing 018 18,228 yards.

1836 spotted smoke bearing 018. General Quarters-Torpedo

1857 Submerged for attack. Went to 250 ft, for high speed run to close range for attack.

1941 Periscope depth. Target is one large AK, one smaller AK, one MS type escort on course 200 8 kts.

1952 Readied Tubes #1,#2,#3,#4 for firing.

2000 Target began zig just as fired (TORPEDO ATTACK #1) tubes #1,#2.

2001 Torpedoes missed

2002 Fired tubes #3,#4.(TORPEDO ATTACK #1-A)

2003 Torpedoes heard merging perfectly with bearing of target but missed.

2004 Escort pinging, closing

2007 Depth Charge Attack #1 Escort above, splashes heard. DC explosions astern.

2150 DC Attack ended.

2300 Surfaced for end around on convoy.

August 29, 1943

Raced ahead for end around, regained SJ contact with convoy at 0345.

0454 (TORPEDO ATTACK #2) Fired Tube #1,#2,#3,#4.

0455 All four torpedoes hit target, large explosions and fires.

0456 As SEAL turned away, came under fire from second AK in column, mostly machine gun fire, but a few
three inch rounds landed somewhat close. Enemy escort pursued SEAL for fifteen minutes but unable to close
beyond 3200 yards.

0506 AK HIYAMA MARU 6171 tons sunk 47-26N 147-09E

0510 Secured General Quarters, racing ahead for end around, reloading forward torpedoes.

0800 Dawn trim dive.

0807 Sound detected faint props 025 degrees.

0015 Surfaced from trim dive. Set course to intercept sound contact.

0827 Smoke spotted on horizon at 015.

0831 SJ contact bearing 006 18,228 yards.

0835 Convoy resumed SSW course first encountered on. Raced ahead to submerge for attack.

0937 Submerged for Attack.

1026 Periscope depth 2500 yards off convoy track, turned to bring stern tubes to bear for shot with new wakeless MK 18 torpedoes.

1041 (TORPEDO ATTACK #3) Fired two MK 18 torpedoes tubes 5,6,.

1046 Torpedoes missed. Believe new MK 18 torpedoes are running deep, as in three attacks have fired
four of new torpedoes, set at 10 ft and five ft. De ja vu of troubles with MK 14 torpedo in 1941/42.

1047 Aircraft spotted (Aircraft Contact No.1) diving for periscope, ordered emergency depth 150 ft.
plane did not drop bombs, but alerted the escort, which began closing fast.

1051 Pinging heard followed by splash and DC explosion. SEAL at 260 ft. Rigged for
Silent Running and Depth Charge.

1052 Depth Charge Attack #2 began. A few close ones fell over next three hours.

1352- Escort departed area.

1415 All clear at periscope and radar depth, surfaced for end around on convoy.

1445 Engineering Officer reports Torpedo Tube #7 would not fire due to previously
unknown damage suffered in depth charge attack #1. Unable to repair at sea. MK 18 removed from
tube, checked and placed in tube #5.

2228 Finally regained SJ contact with convoy at bearing 006 18,500 yards. Closed at high speed
for night surface attack.

August 30, 1943

0004 General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface

0140 (TORPEDO ATTACK #4) Fired tubes 1,2.

0142 Torpedoes impacted target. Star shells and few rounds from escort, but was on far side of the AK and unable to catch SEAL as she sped away.

0145 MOMOHA MARU 3103 tons quickly sunk at 46-16N 145-23E

0200 Secured General Quarters.

August 31, 1942

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 1, 1943

0500 Heavy winds and seas, light haze.

September 2, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 3, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 4, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 5, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 6, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 7, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 8, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 9, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 10, 1943

Heavy seas and gales throughout day and night.

September 11, 1943

Heavy seas, gales.

September 12, 1943

Heavy seas. Patrolled area.

September 13, 1943

Patrolled area.

September 14, 1943

Patrolled area.

September 15, 1943

Patrolled area.

September 16, 1943

Patrolled area.

September 18, 1943

1313 SJ contact bearing 056 16,200 yards. Turned SEAL to intercept lone contact.

1319 Contact should be in visual range but due to fog, watch was unable to locate.

Seas were calm, with unusually clear skies, but very cold air and a dense fog in area limited visibility.

1320 Masts of DE or DD type spotted bearing 005 10,120 yards. Sumberged to 100 feet.

1324 100 ft. Called General Quarters-Torpedo.

1327 Periscope depth, too close to contact track for bow shot, turned to port to bring stern tubes to bear.

1337 (TORPEDO ATTACK #5) Fired tubes #5 and #6 (MK 14 3-A).

1338 Torpedo impact! Hit admiships on target, large explosions. Vessel slowed, sinking. Second torpedo missed.

1351 Patrol Boat No. 46 (Former Wakatake Class DD) 1,100 tons sunk at 47-40N 147-23E.

1355 Secured General Quarters.

1410 Surfaced.

September 19, 1943

Patrolled area, no contacts.

September 20, 1943

Set course of Matsuwa Area. Gales with heavy seas 0600-2300.

September 21, 1943

2049 SJ contact bearing 029 17,215 yards.

2105 Fog made visual acquisition difficult , but finally spotted two ships at 2106 range 8000, appeared to be destroyers.
Submerged for attack. General Quarters-Torpedo

2109 Contacts are a MS and SC. Targeted the MS with MK 18 in stern tubes.

2114 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.6) Fired tube #5, #6.

2116 Torpedoes failed to hit at correct time. Sound checked showed them on proper bearing with target.
During observation, target made hard turn towards SEAL, possibly detecting the boat or the torpedoes
on hydrophones, the SC astern turned towards SEAL as well, searchlight shining in the boats direction.
Ordered 250 ft depth, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

2124 Depth Charge Attack #3 enemy vessel passed above. DC explosions heard. First pings heard.

September 22, 1943

0043 Very close depth charge. Damage reported (See Major Defects and Damage Section). Minor flooding reported
in engines room. Controlled.

0440 Lost contact with enemy. Last Depth charge explosion was 0410.

0515 Secured General Quarters. Enemy remained in area, maintained silent running. Course
300 to open range from Matsuwa Island.

1000 Surfaced.

September 23, 1943

0400 Laid to off Matsuwa until dawn to submerge and reconnoiter the island.

0600 Submerged 5.5 NM SW of Matsuwa Island.

2200 Surfaced.

September 24, 1943

Patrol, no contacts.

September 25, 1943

Patrol, no contacts.

September 26, 1943

Patrol, no contacts.

September 27, 1943

Set course for Pearl Harbor via Midway,

1757 Fishing Boat spotted bearing 341 9700 yards.

1803 General Quarters-Battle Surface-Gun Action.

1816 Sunk Armed Fishing by (200 tons estimated) by gunfire. 44-32N 146-44E.

September 28, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

September 29, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

September 30, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

October 1, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

October 2, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

October 3, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

October 4, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

October 5, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

October 6, 1943

0800 Docked Midway, refueled.

1300 Departed Midway for Pearl Harbor.

October 7, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor.

October 7, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor.

October 8, 1943

En route Pearl Harbor.

October 9, 1943

1630 Docked at Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. Terminated war patrol.

C. WEATHER

Weather conditions in the area but normal for the time of year in Arctic climates. Day time high temprature recorded
was 54 degrees with night time low of 22 degrees. Ice was present, but not as present as winter months.A light
to moderate fog remained present nearly the entire duration in patrol area, making visual acquisition of targets difficult at times.

Seas state was overall consistently choppy to heavy. However, during all attacks were unusually calm.Frequent arctic storms
were endured in the patrol area and immediate approaches.

D. NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

Matsuwa Island, with it's towering volcanic peak served as an excellent navigational marker.

Lights and Fortifications on the South West top of Etorofu Island and North West Tip of Kunashiri Islands aided in navigation as well.

E. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

Astonishingly enough, SEAL encountered just one aircraft in patrol area.
This is unsual for area and surprising considering the air strip at Mastuwa,
as well as seaplane bases in area.

* Exchanged Reconognition Signals

No. DATE TIME LAT. LONG. TYPE BRG RNG (YARDS) CRSE SPD(knots) ALT HOW REMARK
1. 8/29 1047 48-58N 146-49E VAL 260 2000 010 200 1500 Vis. Periscope No.2
2. 10/06 0907 28-18N 177008E PBY 240 6000 210 108 500 SD/Vis. PBY from Midway*

F. SHIP CONTACTS

No. DATE TIME LAT. LONG. TYPE BRG RNG (YARDS) CRSE SPD (knots) HOW REMARK
1. 8/28 1833 46-49N 137-34E AK,AK, MS 018 18228 200 8 SJ Attack #1,#1-A, #2, #3,#4
2. 9/18 1313 47-40N 147-25E PB(DD) 056 16202 085 16.5 SJ Attack#5
3. 9/21 2052 48-17N 152-55E MS,SC 031 16300 230 16 SJ Attack#6
4. 9/23 0034 49-9N 153-03E Iceberg 037 15500 220 0 SJ Visual on large iceberg.
5. 9/27 1757 44-32N 146-44E Fish. BT. 341 9500 342 5 Vis. Gun Action #1

G. ATTACK DATA

Six torpedo Attacks were made through this patrol, sinking two AK and one older DD, converted to PB.
Eighteen torpedoes were expended in total.

No malfunction observed in MK 14-2A

All eight MK 18 torpedoes fired missed. While it is possible fire control errors lead to some misses, it is unlikley
account for all misses, especially as depth settings and solutions varied. Sound tracked torpedo bearings merging correctly with targets.Due to this,
it is believed at least five of the MK 18 torpedoes ran deeper than set, if not all eight.

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 1 War Patrol NINE
28 August 1943 2000 46-43N 147-37E Sea of Okhotsk

Description

Submerged attack by periscope on small convoy of two ships, ones escort.

Ships in convoy identifed as

AK HIYAMA MARU 6171 tons
AK MOMOHA MARU 3101 tons
MS W-19 Class Minesweeper 648 tons (escort)

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 1 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
NAME/CLASS HIYAMA MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 6171
COURSE 200
SPEED 5.5 kts zigging
RANGE 1766
AOB 57 S
BEARING 345
TRUE BEARING 100
REMARK

Torpedo Attack No.1 Torpedo Data (at firing)

TUBE#1
TYPE MK 18
SERIAL NO.82445
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.90011
GYRO 353 R
TRACK 64
COURSE 108
SPREAD 0
DEPTH 10 ft
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
HIT No
POI ---
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
----

TUBE#2
TYPE MK 18
SERIAL NO.87345
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.92031
GYRO 353 R
TRACK 64
COURSE 108
SPREAD 0
DEPTH 10 ft
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
HIT No
POI ---
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
----

Own Ship Data (at firing)

DEPTH 63 ft
COURSE 129
SPEED 2.5 kts
ANGLE 1 degree-down
REMARK

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 1-A War Patrol NINE
28 August 1943 2002 46-43N 147-37E Sea of Okhotsk

Description

Submerged attack by periscope on large AK, zigging towards SEAL.

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 1-A Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
NAME/CLASS HIYAMA MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 6171
COURSE 280
SPEED 5.5 kts zigging
RANGE 1000
AOB 0
BEARING 0
TRUE BEARING 130
REMARK
---

Torpedo Attack No.1-A Torpedo Data (at firing)

TUBE#3
TYPE MK 18
SERIAL NO.82445
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.90011
GYRO 353 R
TRACK 64
COURSE 108
Depth 10 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
HIT No
POI ---
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Possibly ran deep, sound had torpedo perfect track and merged with bearing of target.

TUBE#4
TYPE MK 18
SERIAL NO.87345
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.92031
GYRO 353 R
TRACK 64
COURSE 108
Depth 10 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
HIT No
POI ---
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION Possible
REMARK
Possibly ran deeper than set, sound had torpedo perfect track and merged with bearing of target.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

DEPTH 63 ft
COURSE 098
SPEED 4 kts
ANGLE 1 degree-down
REMARK
AOB 0 for "Down the throat shot"
Seas Calm
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 2 War Patrol NINE
29 August 1943 0454 47-26N 147-09E in the Sea of Okhotsk

Description

Follow up attack on convoy Attack #1 and #1-A

Follow up

Type of Attack

Night surface-torpedo on convoy attacked in Attack #1 and #1-A. Calm seas, moderate visibility.

Ships Sunk
AK HIYAMA MARU 6171 tons
47-26N 147-09E Sea of Okhotsk.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 2 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
NAME/CLASS HIYAMA MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 6171
COURSE 327
SPEED 8 kts
RANGE 2500
AOB 80
BEARING 009
TRUE BEARING 071
REMARK
Large AK, 3" guns fore and aft, machine guns mounted. Large crate on deck forward and aft.

Torpedo Attack No.2 Torpedo Data (at firing)

TUBE#1
TYPE MK 14 2-A
SERIAL NO.67445
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO.79904
GYRO 0
TRACK 85 P
COURSE 61
Depth 10 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI MOT
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Target Sunk

TUBE#2
TYPE MK 14 2-A
SERIAL NO.62715
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO.73301
GYRO 0
TRACK 85 P
COURSE 61
Depth 10 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI Amidships-Aft
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Target Sunk

TUBE#3
TYPE MK 14 2-A
SERIAL NO.82715
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO.88301
GYRO 0
TRACK 85 P
COURSE 61
Depth 10 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI Amidships-Aft
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Target Sunk

TUBE#4
TYPE MK 14 2-A
SERIAL NO.212715
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO.79308
GYRO 0
TRACK 85 P
COURSE 61
Depth 10 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI MOT
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Target Sunk

Own Ship Data (at firing)

DEPTH Surfaced
COURSE 062
SPEED 3 kts
ANGLE 0-down
Seas Calm
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 3 War Patrol NINE
29 August 1943 1041 48-58N 146-49E in the Sea of Okhotsk

Description

Follow up attack.

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 3 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
NAME/CLASS MOMOHA MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 3103
COURSE 200
SPEED 8 kts
RANGE 2350 yards
AOB 81 P
BEARING 164
TRUE BEARING 115
REMARK
3" gun forward near bow. Crates on deck forward and aft. AK riding low in water, loaded heavily.

Torpedo Attack No.3 Torpedo Data (at firing)

TUBE #5
TYPE MK 18
SERIAL NO.104093
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.89935
GYRO 0
TRACK 81 P
COURSE 311
Depth 5 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT-stack
HIT No
POI --
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION Possible
REMARK
Sound tracked torpedo,merged with target bearing indicating would hit, torpedo carried on.
Believe MK 18 is running deeper than set. Target draft 21 ft. Torpedo set to 5 feet

TUBE #6
TYPE MK 18
SERIAL NO.111087
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.73931
GYRO 0
TRACK 81 P
COURSE 311
DEPTH 5 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT-stack
HIT No
POI --
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION Possible
REMARK
Sound tracked torpedo,merged with target bearing indicating would hit, torpedo carried on.
Believe MK 18 is running deeper than set. Target draft 21 ft. Torpedo set to 5 feet

Own Ship Data (at firing)

DEPTH 63 ft
COURSE 310
SPEED 2.5 kts.
ANGLE 1-down
Seas Calm

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 4 War Patrol NINE
30 August 1943 0140 46-16N 145-23E in the Sea of Okhotsk

Description

Attack on second and mast remaining AK of Convoy attacked previously.

Type of Attack

Night Surface-Torpedo in calm seas, with light fog, no moon and low visibility.

Ships Sunk
AK MOMOHA MARU
3105 tons

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 4 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
NAME/CLASS MOMOHA MARU
TYPE AK
TONS 3101
COURSE 205
SPEED 8 kts
RANGE 2300 yards
AOB 89 S
BEARING 349
TRUE BEARING 110
REMARK
3 inch gun forward. Vessel low in water, heavily loaded large crates forward and aft.
Torpedo Attack No.4 Torpedo Data (at firing)

TUBE #1
TYPE MK 14-2A
SERIAL NO.905753
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.901056
GYRO 0
TRACK 98 S
COURSE 120
Depth 3.5 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI MOT
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK

TUBE #2
TYPE MK 14-2A
SERIAL NO.921751
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.911006
GYRO 0
TRACK 98 S
COURSE 120
Depth 3.5 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI MOT
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK

Own Ship Data (at firing)

DEPTH Surfaced
COURSE 040
SPEED 4 kts
ANGLE 0
SEAS Calm

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 5 War Patrol NINE
18 September 1943 1337 47-40N 147-23E in the Sea of Okhotsk

Description

Old DD converted to PB on patrol in Sea of Okhotsk.

Type of Attack

Submerged-Day-Periscope in calm seas.

Ships Sunk
PB No. 46 (previous Wakatake Class DD)
1,100 tons 47-40N 147-23E

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 5 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
NAME/CLASS Patrol Boat No. 46 (Previous Wakatake Class DD)
TYPE PB(DD)
RANGE 1350 YARDS
AOB 83
COURSE 090
SPEED 16.5
BEARING 165
TRUE BEARING 347
REMARK
Old DD converted to PB-ASW. Retained gun mounts. Two depth charge racks and Y-Gun on stern.
Three lifeboats spotted after sinking.

Torpedo Attack No. 5 Torpedo Data (at firing)

TUBE #5
TYPE MK 14-2A
SERIAL NO.905753
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.901056
GYRO 0
TRACK 98 S
COURSE 120
Depth 3.5 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI MOT
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK

TUBE #6
TYPE MK 14-2A
SERIAL NO.921751
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.911006
GYRO 0
TRACK 98 S
COURSE 120
Depth 3.5 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT No
POI ---
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Missed ahead when target slowed after first torpedo impact.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

DEPTH 63 ft
COURSE 357
SPEED 2 kts
ANGLE 0
SEAS Calm

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 6 War Patrol NINE
21 September 1943 2114 48-17N 152-57 E 19 NM West of Matsuwa Island, Kuril Island in the Sea of Okhotsk.

Description

One Mineweeper with Etorufu Class Type A Escort vessel. Decided to attack this ASW
patrol due to favorable set up and they would hinder patrols near Matsuwa Island planned for following days.

Type of Attack

Submerged-Periscope-Dusk in calm seas.

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No. 5 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
NAME/CLASS W-19 Class Minesweeper
TYPE MS
RANGE 2400 yards
AOB 66 S
COURSE 235
SPEED 16 kts
BEARING 148
TRUE BEARING 124
REMARK

Torpedo Attack No. 5 Torpedo Data (at firing)

TUBE #5
TYPE MK 18
SERIAL NO.
EXPLODER
SERIAL NO.
GYRO 358 R
TRACK 83 S
COURSE 334
Depth 3 ft
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 seconds
METHOD Single Bearing-TDC
POA MOT
HIT No
POI ---
ERRATIC/MALFUNCTION Possible
REMARK
Miss, believe torpedo ran deeper than set.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

DEPTH 63
COURSE 332
SPEED 3
ANGLE 1-Down
SEAS Calm

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

H. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND COUNTERMEASURES

Enemy Anti-Submarine efforts in area were light. Two surface patrols were encountered, with no air patrols. Although,
one aircraft, likely called in from the air strip at Matsuwa, bombed the SEAL when at periscope depth.

Depth Charge attacks by enemy vessels were persistent and somewhat effective, causing some damage to SEAL, including knocking #7 torpedo (stern) tube
out for duration of the patrol.

Evasion consisted of utilizing thermal layers, silent running, constant direction changes, with speed bursts when appropriate.

I. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

DEFECTS:

No Major material defects on this patrol.

DAMAGE:

Damage suffered during depth charge attacks and bombing by aircraft.

All damage repaired at sea unless otherwise noted.

1.#7 Torpedo tube disabled-Unable to repair at sea.
2.Minor flooding in Engine room.
3.Port Propeller
4.Aft Batteries
5.Compressor
6.WCA Listening Gear
7.Hydraulic Pump
8.No.2 Diesel
9.No.4 Diesel
10.No.1 Electric Motor
11.NO.3 Electric Motor
12.No.1 periscope
13.No.2 periscope
14.High Pressure Air Line leaks-All compartments
15.Water piping leaks-All compartments.

J. SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound conditions were generally average to poor in area as reported by boats on previous patrols.
Average sonar contact and ability to track was 3000-6000 yards.

Sound gear remained in good working order but was hampered by the conditions in area.

K. RADAR

SJ Radar performance fluctuated between optimal and poor. Ice build up on antenna, requiring a crew member to ascend the shears in a attempt to
remedy this was required daily, at times more. Typical detection range was 12000-14000 yards.

SD Radar detected no enemy aircraft in patrol area. Ice build up was also an issue and remedied in same manner as SJ.

L. THERMAL LAYERS

Thermal layers were detected as 90 and 175 feet.

M. Personnel

Crew performance was excellent as always. Thirteen men qualified in submarines during this patrol.

N. HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Health and morale of crew was overall, good. Low temps and heavy seas made for difficult conditions on
board at time. Food was excellent overall.

O. MILES STEAMED-FUEL USED

MILES GALLONS
Pearl to Midway 1350 16250
Midway to Area 2700 36980
In Area 6250 60550
Area to Midway 2750 17550
Midway to Pearl 1350 20550

P. DURATION

DAYS
Pearl to Midway 3
Midway to Area 8
In Area 28
Submerged 8
Area to Midway 9
Midway to Pearl 3.5

Q. FACTORS IN DURATION

Torpedoes Remaining 6 (MK 14-2A ,Four forward, two after.)
Fuel 9656 Gallons
Provisions 29 days
Crew Indefinite

R. REMARKS

MK 18 torpedo performance was disappointing as had high hopes for these new wakeless torpedoes. All eight failed to hit targets
on what were, can't miss shots. Sound bearings followed torpedoes and confirmed merging with sound of target. Obviously could not observe them due to lack of wake.
Torpedoes set to minimum depth of 3.5 ft still missed.

While the torpedoes lack wakes, it is believed they were detected by the enemy Minesweeper's sound gear in the
attack on 21 September (Torpedo Attack No. 6).

On the flip side, performance of the MK 14 torpedo was overall excellent on this patrol with no known
duds or depth control problems.

Revus

11-09-21, 11:05 AM

USS Silversides War Patrol 5 Report.
Not a bad one, started with an insert of a watcher to Vella Lavella, one single AK, then a few junks on the surface and another whole convoy. No pursuits by escorts, no damage.

Report:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zDyU0bjAAqba_pqnUpWTFxQcF9shwtfd/view?usp=sharing

Pics:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1x_bbfu0fJpmm2Rp8OUa4vFIwQRIcWAvZ?usp=sharing

Bubblehead1980

11-10-21, 02:35 AM

Revus

11-10-21, 09:59 AM

Well done, as always.:Kaleun_Salute:
Eh, just wish i was able to take out the minesweeper though. I swear, he saw the torps less than 5 seconds prior to moving forward, just dodging em.
It was pretty interesting though, him not going after me (or going after anything for that matter) to counter attack. He just sat and listened, and even after being shot at, went back to listening, opening the door to a secondary hit on the convoy.

I've just started the 6th patrol, orders out to the NW entrance to the Bismarck sea. Hopefully we can keep this streak, but Im sure well receive some resistance soon. Been pretty light on DD aggressiveness.

Bubblehead1980

11-10-21, 07:34 PM

Eh, just wish i was able to take out the minesweeper though. I swear, he saw the torps less than 5 seconds prior to moving forward, just dodging em.
It was pretty interesting though, him not going after me (or going after anything for that matter) to counter attack. He just sat and listened, and even after being shot at, went back to listening, opening the door to a secondary hit on the convoy.

I've just started the 6th patrol, orders out to the NW entrance to the Bismarck sea. Hopefully we can keep this streak, but Im sure well receive some resistance soon. Been pretty light on DD aggressiveness.

Ah yea, but no harm.

Any type of escort is always a tough target to actually. First, they are small, shallow draft usually, even after torpedo depth issue is fixed and they become reliable, they still maintain a small chance of running a couple feet deep now and then, as torpedoes did through the war. Wave in waves etc.

Then they are fast, the physics in SH 4 were lazily done lol. Ships, esp escorts and warships are like rocket ships, can accelerate from a dead stop to 20 knots like it is nothing lol. Escorts/warships have different visual sensors and they are more prone to spotting torpedo wakes, adds up to make them tough targets to torpedo.

Far as his behavior, I have noticed that happen now and again. Basically, if they do not detect you or have a idea where located, sometimes they list to sit and listen. Now, one would think AI would have been given the ability to track you by torpedo wakes, but no, they do not. They can see the wakes, then either sound or active sonar takes over if can not visually acquire you immediately, so they sit and listen. Thing is unless you are close, moving at high speed, and not on silent running, which you pretty much have to be to make a approach near escorts, then they will likely not hear your boat. Plus if I recall, attack was in heavy seas, heavy seas really nerf their hydrophones and sonar, bit too much I believe.

I am sure you will run into some tough escorts in coming patrols, of course always depends on weather, sea state when you attack. When I was out of Brisbane in the DRUM in mid to late 1943, I recall them getting tough, boat was getting damaged pretty heavily each patrol from depth charge attacls.

However, TMO 2.5 AI has always seemed a little weaker than previous versions. I have downloaded previous versions and going to compare sensor settings and see the differences, in future release want the AI the be tough again. I believe it was toned down some because of complaints, but the issue was not so much the AI as the depth charges and damage model...when one depth charge can have 175 hit points and your sub can take 325 lol, there is your problem. I believe with the new damage model and depth charges(which I have improved more since last release) that improved AI will restore proper balance to TMO.

Bubblehead1980

11-12-21, 02:05 AM

USS SEAL SS 183
WAR PATROL REPORT
WAR PATROL TEN
7 November- 28 December 1943

A. PROLOGUE

Returned from NINTH War Patrol to Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. 9 October 1943. Underwent standard refit and repair
, with Stern tube #7 replaced with new one due to damage suffered during depth charge attack on previous patrol. Loaded
twenty two of MK 14 3-A torpedoes, fitting with the new firing pins on 4-6 November. Ready for sea 7 November, 1943.

B. NARRATIVE

7 November

1335 Departed Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. for patrol area DUNKERS DERP via Midway.

1530 Trim Dive

1600 Surfaced.

8-10 November

En route Midway. Conducted daily gunnery, dive, emergency, and torpedo fire control drills.

11 November

0935 Docked at submarine tender, Midway Island.

1300 Departed Midway for patrol area DUNKERS DERP, with orders to approach
Bonin and Volcano Islands from the North, making a "sweep" through area prior to arriving
at DUNKERS DERP.

12-13 November

En route patrol area.

14 November

0935 (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.1) SD contact. Maintained steady range at 14 NM.

0948 Lost SD contact contact.

15-16 November

En route patrol area.

17 November

1019 (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.2) SD contact. 10 NM steady range.

1025 Lost SD contact.

1148 (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.3) SD contact at ten miles, closing fast. Submerged to avoid.

1531 Surfaced.

18 November

En route patrol area.

19 November

0900 North of Bonin Islands

20 November

0930 Passed area between Bonin and Volcano Islands

21 November

0000 Entered patrol area DUNKERS DERP.

22-28 November

Patrol in area, no contacts.

29 November

1501 (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.4) SD contact, range steady at 14 NM.

1510 Lost SD contact.

30 November

Patrol in area, no contacts.

1 December

1917 SJ Contact (SHIP CONTACT NO.1) 18,228 yards bearing 359. Inceased flank speed, course
310 to intercept.

1919 General Quarters-Torpedo.

1921 Two DD Course 157 21 knots. Closed for attack.

1925 As SEAL was preparing to submerged for attack, sound of enemy shell roared over the bridge, landing about 50-75 feet astern
with a large splash. Ordered dive to 250 ft, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

Thermal layer 180 ft at23-17N 146-40E

1935 Pinging heard.

1937 Depth Charge Attack #1 (begin) One DC explosion astern.

2015 Damage Reported. (SEE MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE SECTION)

2049 Explosions close above, boat shaken. Depth 364 ft. Believe likely bombe from aircraft, as neither
DD was close or abov SEAL.

2 December

0201 After twenty minutes of quiet, enemy suddenly began pinging SEAL again, making repeated attacks runs.

0544 Lost sound contact with enemy. Secured General Quarters. Ten hours and seven minutes after depth charge attack began.

0810 SJ contacts bearing 172 9500 yards, stationary. Likely DD listening for SEAL.

0812 Surfaced.

3-4 December

Conducted repairs and patrolled area.

5 December

0300 Received Contact Report of northbound convoy passing through patrol area afternoon 5 December. Set course
to make contact

1401 SJ Contact (SHIP CONTACT NO.2) bearing 345 18200 yards.

1404 Smoke Sighted. Genera Quarters-torpedo.

1446 Targets are two LST type ships leading a larger landing ship identified as SHINSHU MARU. Two DE type escort
ahead and astern.

1510 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1) Fired Tubes 1,2,3,4.

1511 Three of four torpedoes hit target.

1513:45 SHINSHU MARU Landing Craft Transport 7100 tons sunk bow first at 24-07N 143-06E.

1513:55 DE closing, rigged for silent running and depth charge, went to 250 ft.

1515 Depth Charge Attack #2 began.

1905 End Depth Charge Attack #2. Many charges dropped in area, only a few close. Choppy seas and thermal layer
aided in preventing enemy from gaining a solid contact on SEAL.

2330 Periscope depth, enemy escort remains in area 4500 yards astern, returned to 250 ft.

6 December

0100 Surfaced.

1222 (SHIP CONTACT NO.3) SJ contact bearing 018 18,330 yards.

1224 Smoke Sighted bearing 025. Convoy on course 300. Moving ahead for for attack position.

1245 Lost SJ contact. Convoy zigged to NE.

1324 Regained SJ contact bearing 050 16,250 yards.

1806 Convoy zigged towards SEAL. General Quarters-Torpedo.

1813 Submerged for attack.

1859 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2) Fired tubes 5,6,7,8.

1900 Impacted large AO. Vessel erupted in "tanker fashion" in massive fireball and explosion,
after second torpedo hit. AO's back was broken, keel split amidships. AO AKATSUKI MARU 10,216 tons sunk.

1903 Depth Charge Attack #3 began. No close explosions. Heavy seas helped conceal SEAL.

2230 Lost contact with enemy.

2345 Surfaced.

7 December

1200 Unable to regain contact with convoy, resumed patrol.

8-11 December

Patrol, no contacts.

12 December

1830 (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.6) SD contact 8 NM. Submerged to avoid.

2020 Surfaced.

13-15 December

Patrol, no contacts.

16 December

0402 (SHIP CONTACT NO.4) SJ contact bearing 323 18,255 yards.Turned course to intercept contact.

0413 General Quarters-Torpedo-Surface.

0422 Contact is large convoy on course 112 8 kts.

0453 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3) Fired tubes 1,2 at large AP, 3,4 at mid sized AK.

0455:10 Torpedoes impacted target #1. Large fires

0455:15 Torpedoes impacted target #2, resulting in large explosion one minutes after impact.

0456 SEAL turned away from convoy, under heavy fire from large AK astern of sinkings. Escorts closing fast.

0457 AK AKAMA MARU 5600 tons (Target#2) sunk at 24-35N 146-23E

0501 AP NIKKIN MARU 5587 tons (Target#1) sunk at 24-35N 146-23E

0530 Secured Genera Quarters. On course for end around and follow up attack at dawn.

0940 General Quarters-Torpedo

1000 Convoy zigged to SE.

1002 Submerged for attack.

1049 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4) Fired tubes 5,6,

1050 Torpedo (Tube#7) hit mid sized AK in bow. Others passed en route to target.

1051 Three torpedo hits in ARISAN MARU.Large fire visible.

1053 Both targets observed down by the bow, sinking. Escorts closing, pinging.

Ordered 250 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1054 After ordering depth, for unknown reasons, SEAL broached and surfaced to depth of 28 feet before
she was caught. SEAL came under heavy fire from merchants and closing escorts, but no rounds hit.

1055 After seconds that seemed like hours, SEAL was submerged again and on way to 250 feet,
rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1058 Depth Charge Attack #3

A very close depth charge explosion at 1058:24 caused heavy damage in control room and conning tower.
(SEE MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE SECTION)

1059 Busting piping, lines, and leaking hatch, heavy flooding in control room. Minor flooding in conning tower.

1102 Depth control difficult without excessive speed. Trip pump damaged as well. Unable to hold 250 ft depth
SEAL began to "bounce" between 260 and 285 ft.

1122 Leaks stopped in control room, flooding under control. Roughly three foot of water reported, pumps engaged.

1143 Escorts suddenly broke off the depth charge attack, perhaps convinced they had destroyed SEAL.

1144 Fight to pump water, maintain depth continued.

1155 One escort departed area to rejoin convoy at high speed, other remained in area hunting, but did not contact
SEAL.

1400 Water pumped from conning tower and trim pump repaired, depth control restored overall.

1410 Enemy escort estimated 7000 yards astern.

1612 At periscope depth, discovered that neither No. 1 nor No.2 periscopes are operational. Returned to 200 ft depth
until night fall.

2055 Surfaced. Continued on last known course of convoy for follow up night surface attack.

17 December

0030 Engineering Officer informed inspection of boat reveals damage more serious than initially thought.
(SEE MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE) Most serious of which, hull damage in area of control room and conning tower. In addition, both periscopes
were not operational and would take at least twenty four hours each to repair. Torpedo Tubes #1, #3, and #4 were all revealed to be
heavily damaged and not operational. Furthermore, a persistent leak of the main fuel oil tank, first damaged in Depth Charge Attack No.1,
which cost SEAL around estimated ten percent of her fuel oil, was reopened in last attack.

Considering the totality of this damage, decided to terminate war patrol and head for Pearl Harbor via Midway.

18-23 December

En route Midway

24 December

1400 Docked Miday, topped off fuel.

1800 Departed Midway.

25-27 December

En route Pearl Harbor.

28 December

0945 Docked Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H., terminated War Patrol.

C. WEATHER

Weather during transit to and from ranged from ideal yachting weather, with a few scattered squalls.
Weather in the patrol area was overall satisfactory, but a few days of heavy seas and rough squalls.

D. TIDAL INFORMATION

Tides were normal for the area.

E. NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

Distant lights near Haha Jima and Chichi Jima were observed, providing navigational assitance.

F. CONTACTS

Aircraft Contacts

(MILES)
No. DATE TIME LAT. LONG. RNG BRG CRS SPD ALT TYPE HOW REMARK
1. 11/14 0935 28-4N 168-7E 16 -- -- -- -- -- SD 580 NM NE of Wake Island
2. 11/17 1019 28-13N 152-36E 11 -- -- -- -- -- SD 270 NM NNW of Marcus Island
3. 11/17 1148 28-13N 152-17E 10 -- -- -- -- -- SD 277 NM NNW of Marcus Island
4. 11/29 1501 25-4N 146-19E 14 SD SD only.Range steady.
5. 12/2 1420 22-10N 146-20E 13 -- -- -- -- -- SD SD only
6. 12/12 1830 22-42N 143-12E 8 -- -- -- -- -- SD SD only
7. 12/17 1213 24-17N 149-40E 9 -- -- -- -- -- SD SD only
8. 12/18 1057 23-26N 152-49E 11 -- -- -- -- -- SD SD only. 80 NM W of Marcus Island.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ship Contacts

(YARDS)
No. DATE TIME LAT. LONG BRG RNG CRS SPD TYPE HOW REMARK
1. 12/1 1917 23-16N 146-42E 359 18,228 157 13 DD,DD SJ-Vis. Depth Charge Attack No.1
2. 12/5 1401 24-02N 143-0E 345 18,200 002 13 LCT,DD, SJ-Vis. Torpedo Attack No.1
LST,LST,PB
3. 12/6 1222 24-41N 144-23E 018 18,330 300 9 AK,AO,SC SJ-Vis. Torpedo Attack No.2

4. 12/16 0402 24-40N 146-27E 323 18,255 112 8 AK,AP SJ-Vis. Torpedo Attack No.3
SC,PB

G. ATTACK DATA

USS SEAL SS-1843 Torpedo Attack No. 1 War Patrol TEN
Date 5 December 1943 Time 1509 Lat.24-8N Long.143-6E

Description

One PD (Ex-Wakatake Class DD) and a Kamikaze DD escorting two LST type vessels and a large
landing craft transport vessel in single column.

Type Attack

Submerged-Periscope-Day in choppy seas.

Ships Sunk
SHINSU MARU Landing craft transport 7100 tons
24-07N 143-06E

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.1 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
SHINSHU MARU Landing Craft Transport Vessel
Course 002
Speed 13 kts
Bearing 009
True Bearing 104
Range 1400 yards
AOB 81 P
Remark
Multiple landing craft visible forward and aft on deck.

Torpedo Attack No.1 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #1
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.102046
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No.882349
Gyro 351 L
Track 98 P
Course 087
Interval 5 seconds
Method Single Bearing TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI MOT
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #2
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.102344
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No.892131
Gyro 351 L
Track 98 P
Course 087
Interval 5 seconds
Method Single Bearing TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI Bow-Mast
Erratic No
Remark
---

Tube #3
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.112144
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No.792037
Gyro 351 L
Track 98 P
Course 087
Interval 5 seconds
Method Single Bearing TDC
POA Fore Mast
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit No
POI Bow-Mast
Erratic No
Remark
Missed just forward of bow, target slowed.

Tube #4
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.107383
Exploder MK 6-5
Serial No.702433
Gyro 351 L
Track 98 P
Course 087
Interval 5 seconds
Method Single Bearing TDC
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
POI Forward-Amidships.
Erratic No
Remark
Hit seemed to be "the ticket", as vessel quickly began to sink by bow after torpedo impact.

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 64 ft
Course 095
Speed 2.5 kts
Angle 2-Down
Seas Choppy-Moderate.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 2 War Patrol TEN
Date 6 December 1943 Time 1859 Lat.25-34N Long.144-29E

Description

Large convoy of AK, AO, three escorts.

Type Attack

Submerged-Day-Periscope in rough seas.

Ships Sunk
AKATSUKI MARU 10304 tons
25-33N 144-30E

Verified by

Observed four torpedoes hit, massive explosion of loaded tanker. Observed vessel split in two amidships, sinking.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.2 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AO AKATSUKI MARU 10304 tons
Course 328
Speed 10 kts
Bearing 195
True Bearing 095
Range 2100 yards
AOB 55 P
Remark

Torpedo Attack No.2 Torpedo Fire Control Data

Tube #5
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No. 988312
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No. 633823
Gyro 05 L
Track 115 P
Course 265
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 8ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark

Tube #6
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No. 913314
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No. 602821
Gyro 05 L
Track 115 P
Course 265
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark

Tube #7
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No. 884591
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No. 133420
Gyro 05 L
Track 115 P
Course 265
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark

Tube #8
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No. 1123121
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No.568823
Gyro 05 L
Track 115 P
Course 265
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 8 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 59 ft
Course 259
Speed 2.5 kts
Angle 2-down
Seas Heavy

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 3 War Patrol TEN
Date 16 December 1943 Time 0049 Lat.24-35N Long.146-23E

Description

Large Southbound convoy. Seven AK two escorts.

Type Attack
Night Surface-Torpedo

Ships Sunk

AP NIKKIN MARU 5688 tons

AK AKAMA MARU 5600 tons

Verified by
Observed both vessels hit by two torpedoes each and sink.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.3 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1
AP NIKKIN MARU 5587 tonbs
Course 112
Speed 8 kts
Bearing 24
True Bearing 217
Range 2550 yards
AOB 76 P
Remark

Target#2
AK AKAMA MARU 5600 tons
Course 112
Speed 8 kts
Bearing 358
True Bearing 191
Range 2000
AOB 104 P
Remark

Torpedo Attack No.3 Torpedo Fire Control Data

(Target #1)

Tube #1
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No. 234456
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No.536781
Gyro 15 L
Track 85 P
Course 208
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
----

Tube #2
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No. 133451
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No.736387
Gyro 15 L
Track 85 P
Course 208
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
----
----------------------------------------------------
Target#2

Tube #3
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.539923
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No.571341
Gyro 347 L
Track 104 P
Course 180
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
----

Tube #4
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.531223
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No.501339
Gyro 347 L
Track 104 P
Course 180
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10 ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
----

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth Surfaced
Course 200
Speed 3 kts
Angle 0-down
Seas Calm

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS SEAL SS-183 Torpedo Attack No. 4 War Patrol TEN
Date 16 December 1943 Time 1048 Lat.24-37N Long.146-23E

Description

Sane as Attack No.3 , minus one AK, one AP.

Type Attack

Submerged-Day-Periscope

Ships Sunk

AK ARISAN MARU 6686 tons
24-21N 146-54E

AK MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons
24-41N 146-54E

Verified by

Observed torpedoes hit targets, both sinking by the bow.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Torpedo Attack No.4 Target Data (at firing)

Target#1

AK ARISAN MARU 6686 tons
Course 112
Speed 8 kts
Bearing 165
True Bearing 11
Range 2126 yards
AOB 82 S
Remark
---

Torpedo Attack No.4 Torpedo Fire Control Data

(Target #1)

Tube # 5
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.554691
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No. 912349
Gyro 354 R
Track 88 S
Course 200
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
----

Tube # 6
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No. 745481
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No. 659843
Gyro 354 R
Track 88 S
Course 200
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
----

Tube # 7
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.639129
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No.88341
Gyro 354 R
Track 88 S
Course 200
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
Torpedo hit bow of another AK which increased speed to take lead of column.

Tube # 8
Type MK 14 3-A
Serial No.310504
Exploder MK MK 6-5
Serial No.120041
Gyro 354 R
Track 88 S
Course 200
Method Single bearing-TDC
Interval 5 secs
POA MOT
Spread 0
Power High
Depth 10ft
Hit Yes
Erratic No
Remark
----

Own Ship Data (at firing)

Depth 63 ft
Course 201
Speed 2 kts
Angle 1-down
Seas Calm

H. ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

Enemy ASW measures on this patrol proved effective as caused serious damage to SEAL, but did not prevent the sinking
of six valuable ships.

The Japanese's propensity for ending attacks on submarines too soon benefitted SEAL on this occasion, for it is possible
had the attack continued, SEAL would have been lost. The working theory is the noises made by the damage boat, along with oil and gas leaking to surface convinced
the enemy SEAL had in fact been sunk.

Air and Surface patrols were encountered in area with air patrols encountered near Marcus Island during transit to and from area. Curiously, no aircraft from
Wake Island were encountered.

Evasion was conducted as standard by silent running, depth, course, and speed variations, with speed bursts when enemy passes above or near to drop
depth charges.

I. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

SEAL suffered serious damage from depth charges ont his patrol. All damage repaired at sea unless otherwise noted.

12/1/1943
Depth Charge Attack No.1

Damaged:
1.Clean Fuel Oil Tank
2.Port Propeller Shaft
3. Aft Batteries
4.Rudder Transmission
5. Dive planes transmission-Bow and Stern
6. Compressor
7. Hydraulic pump
8.No.1 Diesel Engine
9.No.3 Diesel Engine
10.No.1 Electric Motor
11.No.3 Electric Motor
12.Conning tower-upper hatch
13.Flooding in conning tower-minor
14.No.2 (Attack) Periscope

12/16/1943
Depth Charge Attack No.4

Damaged:
1.Hull Damaged amidships near control room frames-Repaired in port.
2.Induction piping and lines in control room
3.Flooding in Control room. 3 ft of water pumped out.
4.Conning tower upper(bridge) hatch-leaking.
5.Flooding in conning tower. 10 inches of water water pumped out.
6.No.1 Periscope
7.No.2 Periscope
8.No.1 torpedo tube- Repaired in port
9.No.2 torpedo tube-Repaired in port
10.No.3 torpedo tube
11.No.4 torpedo tube-Repaired in port
12.Cleak Fuel Oil Tank
13.Trimp Pump
14. Compressor
15.Radio Receiver
16.SD Radar Set
17.WCA Sonar Stack
18.Forward Batteries
19.SJ Radar Antenna
20.SD Radar Antenna
21.No.1 Periscope Head
22.No.2 Periscope Head
23.4 inch 50 cal deck gun
24. Fore, Aft, and Deck 20 MM guns
25.Various piping and air line leaks in all compartments.

J.RADIO

Radio function was satisfactory.

K.THERMAL LAYERS

Thermal layers were encountered at 180, 220, and 244 ft.

L.RADAR

SJ radar performance was satisfactory through the patrol. Average detection range was 18000 yards.

SD radar performance was satisfctory with average detection range at 12 NM.

M. SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound conditions in area were typically ideal.

Sound gear functioned well, typically detecting contacts at 10000-12000 yards.

N. MINES

No mines were encountered.

O. Personnel

Crew performance was excellent during a busy and trying patrol, especially in light of serious damage received in two intense
depth charge attacks.

Seventeen men qualified during this patrol.

N. HEALTH AND HABITATABILITY

Health of the crew was overall fine, aside from a tropical type cold that persisted in the waning days of the patrol.

Serious damage to the boat made normal food preperations difficult in first few days after as repairs were conducted but returned to normal.

O. MILES STEAMED-FUEL CONSUMED

MILES GALLONS
Pearl to Midway 1350 15159
Midway to Area 3000 45255
In Area 6000 72450
Area to Midway 3250 41525
Midway to Pearl 1350 17225

P. DURATION
DAYS
Pearl to Midway 4
Midway to Area 12
In Area 28
Area to Midway 13
Midway to Pearl 4

Q. FACTORS IN ENDURANCE

Torpedoes 6
Fuel 42233 gallons
Provisions 26 days
Crew Indefinite

Factor in Termination of Patrol- Heavy damage from depth charge attacks and low fuel state.

S. REMARKS

A successful patrol with six ships sunk, but a price paid in heavy damage. Enemy ASW forces appear to have improved in skill and tenacity
as well as possibly employing more power depth charges, with new exploders. SEAL regrets was unable to expended last six torpedoes on
the convoy due to heavy damage.

The broaching of the SEAL within sight of the enemy, thus providing a visual fix and basis for
the unusually effective counter attack, as attempting to descend to 250 ft to avoid escort counter attack is believe to be have been
caused by damage to trim and ballast tank controls, which at the time was not known. This damage likely occurred in previous depth charge attacks but went undetected
in post attack inspections. This comes after a review of the deck log, which records orders given, and acknowledged for a depth of 250 ft while at periscope depth. The Commanding Officer does not
fault the Diving Officer, men assigned to dive planes, nor crew manning ballast and vent controls.

ConvoyHunting

12-02-21, 03:20 PM

SS-206 GAR - PATROL 1 (08.12.1941 - 21.01.1942)

Skipper : Lt Cdr Arthur Wellman
Boat : SS-206 Gar (Call Signe NEFL, COMSUBRON6)
Area : Tokyo Bay (Northern Japan)
Days at sea : 45
Merchants sunk : 5
Merchant tonnage : 24323
Warships sunk : 1
Warship tonnage : 2465
Awards : Bronze Star (Lt Cdr Arthur Wellman), Navy Commendation Medial (Chief Petty Officer Mason Berganio)

08.12.1941
Pearl Harbor
08:22 - Put to sea for first war patrol. Heading to Midway for fuel and full provisions supply before heading to operation area.

11.12.1941
Midway
12:31 - Moored at tender in Midway.
17:06 - Provisions and fuel supply done. Leaving tender and Midway for operation area.

23.12.1941
140'12E - 33'56N
10:53 - Operation area reached. Begin to patrol submerged during daylights. Fuel 73. Clear skies, excellent

visibility, wind 0mps 330.
139'47E - 34'7N
23:30 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : OPERATION AREA REACHED - NEFL

24.12.1941
139'53E - 34'10N
20:23 - Celebrating Christmas at sea.
22:00 - Incoming message via FOX transmission : TO NEFL - ONE - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - CONTINUE ASSIGNED OPERATION

27.12.1941
139'41E - 35'0N
00:15 - Visual contact with japanese small old split freighter, heading SW at 11Kts. Proceed to a submerged attack position and fire three torpedoes. One hit, one misse and one dull. Sunk for 2427 tons. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 0mps 296.
05:16 - Visual contact with japanese hog island type A freighter, heading SW at 10Kts. Conducted a submerged attack, fired two torpedoes from aft tubes. Two hits. Sunk fonr 4935 tons.

28.12.1941
139'39E - 34'58N
04:38 - Visual contact with japanese auxiliary gunboat, heading SW at 05Kts. Dived and proceed at slow speed to a good submerged attack position. Fired three torpedoes, one hit, one miss and one dull. Sunk for 2465

tons. Cleat skies, good visibility, wind 0mps 296.
06:33 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : SUNK MERCHANTS FOR 7362 TONS AND WARSHIP 2465 - NO SIGNS OF ANTI-SUBMARINE OPERATIONS - NEFL
139'40E - 34'4N
20:46 - Visual contact with japanese Shokuten minelayer, patrolling with searchlights, certainly for us. Dived to avoid.
22:00 - Incoming message via FOX transmission : TO NEFL - TWO - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - NICE RESULTS KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK

30.12.1941
139'40E - 35'04N
15:20 - Sound contact with merchant while submerged. Identified through periscope observation as japanese hog island freighter, course SW at 05Kts. Find a good position for a submerged attack. Fire three torpedoes, three hits. Sunk for 4915 tons.

31.12.1941
139'39E - 34'53N
10:23 - Visual contact with japanese hog island type A freighter, course SE at 11Kts. Fired three torpedoes during submerged attack, three hits. Sunk for 4905 tons. Remaining torpedoes 10. Clouds clear, good visibility, wind 0mps.
139'37E - 35'2N
21:36 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : SUNK TWO MERCHANTS FOR 9820 - NEFL
23:00 - Celebrating New Year's Eve at sea.

01.01.1942
139'57E - 34'58N
22:00 - Incoming message via FOX transmission : T714O NEFL - THREE - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - NICE RESULTS - INFORMATIONS BY HYPO ABOUT ASW GROUP DEPARTING TO HUNT AROUND TOKYO BAY - RELOCATE OP IN NJ-1 AT YOUR DISCRETION

02.01.1942
138'45E - 34'34N
22:02 - Relocated in the Yaizu/Shizouka Bay. Fuel 60. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 0mps 296.

03.01.1942
138'28E - 34'37N
03:30 - Visual contact with japanese large modern composite freighter, heading NE at 05Kts. Fired three torpedoes during sumberged attack, ahead of the ship. Two hits, one dull. Sunk for 7174 tons.
04:10 - Visual contact with two japanese small subchasers, heading N at 10Kts. Crashdive to avoid.
138'22E - 34'33N
08:35 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : SUNK MERCHANT FOR 7174 - SUBCHASERS SEARCHING ACTUAL AREA - FUEL 59 - NEFL
2:00 - Incoming message via FOX transmission : TO NEFL - FOUR - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - FREE TO RETURN TO TENDER WHEN NEEDED

21.01.1941
Pearl Harbor.
21:12 - Docked at tender, ending first war patrol.

Bubblehead1980

12-04-21, 05:49 PM

ConvoyHunting

12-05-21, 11:22 AM

:Kaleun_Salute:

Well done. Enjoyed the read.

Thanks a lot for your appreciation ! Even if my report looks pale beside yours and ones from Revus.
I'm trying the same patrol dates but near Okinawa with SS Trout.

Revus

12-13-21, 04:21 PM

Thanks a lot for your appreciation ! Even if my report looks pale beside yours and ones from Revus.
I'm trying the same patrol dates but near Okinawa with SS Trout.

Great work Convoy.

I sincerely appreciate it. I feel Im just falling further and further down the rabbit hole in terms of recording my patrols. I originally began just keeping track of where I found enemy traffic (so I could travel along it on the next patrol). As time has gone on, Ive gone way further. Though this is a "video game" I like the sim nature of it.

Cheers skipper:Kaleun_Cheers:
Been a while since Ive been in-game. Hope to continue my patrol of the SILVERSIDES, mid '43, sixth patrol. Good hunting in the Bismarck Sea/Solomon areas.

Bubblehead1980

12-13-21, 04:33 PM

Great work Convoy.

I sincerely appreciate it. I feel Im just falling further and further down the rabbit hole in terms of recording my patrols. I originally began just keeping track of where I found enemy traffic (so I could travel along it on the next patrol). As time has gone on, Ive gone way further. Though this is a "video game" I like the sim nature of it.

Cheers skipper:Kaleun_Cheers:
Been a while since Ive been in-game. Hope to continue my patrol of the SILVERSIDES, mid '43, sixth patrol. Good hunting in the Bismarck Sea/Solomon areas.

Same here. I began just taking notes and turning into patrol reports for reference in creating mods and helping other players, but find myself going down the rabbit hole so to speak as well. Look forward to your next one

Been a few weeks since ran a patrol, have been working on things for next release, which should come in January, will be out of town after Friday until after the new year, so no progress over holidays. A lot of new patrol orders, completely revamped the special missions, added campaign start in June 1941, restored Tambor class to all phases of the war, SubRon 50 campaign (ops in the ATO fall 1942-Summer 1943) , revamped torpedo issues, revamped sensors to make the AI sharper, and some other things.

ConvoyHunting

12-21-21, 10:50 AM

PATROL 1 (11.12.1941 - 28.01.1942)
Skipper : Lt Cdr Arthur Wellman
Boat : SS-200 Thresher (Call Signe NAMF, COMSUBDIV 62)
Area : Southern Japan
Days at sea : 50
Merchants sunk : 2
Merchant tonnage : 6524
Warships sunk :
Warship tonnage :
Awards :

NARRATION

11.12.1941
Pearl Harbor
08:22 - Put to sea for first war patrol.Clear skies, excellent visibility, wind 5mps 0.

12.12.1941
161'44W-21'21N
06:41 - Weather conditions changed to strong wind. Reduction of visibility. Clear skies, good visiblity, wind 15mps 359.

23.12.1941
156'51E-17'29N
20:38 - Improvement of weather conditions. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 9mps 47.

24.12.1941
153'16E-28'10N
20:00 - Christmas celebration at sea. Special meal and good spirit among the crew.

28.12.1941
140'16E-30'12N
09:12 - Passing Sofu Gan. Weather conditions changed. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 11mps 50.
138'53NE-30'21N
18:18 - Aircraft spotted, bearing 120 long range. Crashdive.

30.12.1941
133'37E-31'9N
20:36 - Operation area SJ-6 reached. Runing on one diesel to conserve fuel and submerged during daylight, according to initial orders. Reunion and brefing with the officers. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 11mps 37.

01.01.1942
132'22E-32'4N
22:59 - Visual contact with japanese Medium Modern Split Freigter, course NW at 12Kts. Shadowed her for almost 20 minutes while surfaced during nightime. Hard to find a good position for a submerged attack. Finally fired two torpedoes during submerged attack, one misse and one hit. Sunk for 3226 tons. Great excitation among the crew for this first victory of ours. Stayed submerged for one hour until we leave the attack area. Clouds clear, visibility good, wind 11mps 37.

02.01.1942
131'57E-31'48N
05:58 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : TO COMSUBPAC - ONE - SUNK MERCHANT 3226 TONS - FUEL 48 - NAMF
132'14E-31'53N
22:00 - Incoming radio transmission through FOX schedule : TO NAMF - ONE - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - GOOD WORK - CONTINUE OPERATION UNTIL FUEL RESERVE DICTATED RETURN TO BASE

06.01.1942
132'27E-31'56N
19:37 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : TO COMSUBPAC - TWO - NO CONTACT SINCE LAST REPORT - FUEL

41 - NAMF
132'41E-31'57N
22:00 - Incoming radio transmission through FOX schedule : TO NAMF - TWO - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - PERMISSION GRANTED TO RETURN TO TENDER
137'55E-31'55N
23:36 - Improvement of weather condition. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 3mps 129.

09.01.1942
140'21E-31'3N
12:46 - Passing Sofu Gan. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 3mps 195.
141'37E-30'56N
23:36 - Visual contact with japanese Medium Modern Split Freighter, course SE at 6Kts possibly en route to Iwo Jima. Used nightime to find a good position for a submerged attack. Fired three torpedoes, one dude and two hits. Since she doesn't want to sink several times after the first hit, I take the responsability to fire a third torpedo. Sunk for 3262 tons. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 3mps 129.

10.01.1942
142'8E-20'53N
03:30 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : TO COMSUBPAC - THREE - SUNK MERCHANT 3262 TONS - RETURNING TO TENDER - NAMF
145'8E-30'31N
22:00 - Incoming radio transmission through FOX schedule : TO NAMF - THREE - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - EXCELLENT NEWS - CONTINUE TRANSIT

11.01.1942
07:16 - Change of weather conditions.Unable to conduct celestial navigation and get actual position. Overcast skies, poor visibility, wind 14mps 28.
16:39 - Dived because of rain.

12.01.1942
06:23 - Unable to conduct celestial navigation again because of weather. Ensign MARION WAGNER estimations 148E-30N.

13.01.1942
06:04 - Still caught into storm, compromised celestial navigation as usual since 11.01,1942. Ensign MARION WAGNER estimations 150E-30N.Overcast skies, rain, poor visibility, wind 14mps 28.
22:18 - Unable to catch clear and complete FOX schedule transmission due to weather.
22:30 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : TO COMSUBPAC - FOUR - UNABLE TO CATCH FOX TRANSMISSION - BAD WEATHER - THIS MESSAGE WILL BE REPEATED AT 23:00 AND 23:30 - NAMF
23:00 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : TO COMSUBPAC - FOUR - UNABLE TO CATCH FOX TRANSMISSION - BAD WEATHER - THIS MESSAGE WILL BE REPEATED AT 23:30 - NAMF
23:30 - Outgoing radio transmission to COMSUBPAC : TO COMSUBPAC - FOUR - UNABLE TO CATCH FOX TRANSMISSION - BAD WEATHER - NAMF

14.01.1942
08:33 - Always in storm, Ensign CARTHER H. SPRUANCE estimations 152E-29N. Overcast skies, rain, poor visibility, wind 14mps 28.
22:00 - Incoming radio transmission through FOX schedule : TO NAMF - FOUR - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - NO COMMUNICATION FOR YOU DURING 13.01.1941 BROADCAST

15.01.1942
16:19 - Endless storm. Ensign MARION WAGNER estimations 155E-29N.

16.01.1942
156'49E-28'41N
02:15 - At last : out of the storm, change of weather conditions. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 3mps 270.

20.01.1942
172'11E-27'37N
08:29 - Petty Officer Second Class MICHAEL W. WINTER is sick, unable to do his duties.Clear skies, good visibility, wind 3mps 252.

25.01.1942
171'30W-25'20N
00:04 - Change of weather conditions. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 0mps 119.

28.01.1942
Pearl Harbor
20:30 - Docked at tender, ending first war patrol. Crew on the leave.

KaleunMarco

12-25-21, 06:09 PM

one picture is worth a thousand words.

https://i.ibb.co/jTDHzxJ/SH4-Img-2021-12-25-15-57-23-974.png

LUKNER

12-26-21, 08:34 AM

PATROL 1 (12.04.1944 - 24.06.1944)
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-395 Redfish (COMSUBDIV 72)
Area : Mariana Islands
Days at sea : 74
Merchants sunk :
Merchant tonnage :
Warships sunk : 4
Warship tonnage : 2657
Awards :

NARRATION

03:50 Refueling at Johnston Atoll

19:25 Artillery and torpedo attack of a group of enemy patrol ships.

1:01:00 A new artillery attack by a group of enemy patrol ships.

1:21:55 False attack on an allied aircraft carrier formation

1:31:00 Refueling at Majuro Atoll

https://youtu.be/7RhCieGdJ2s

PATROL 2 (05.07.1944 - 24.07.1944)
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-395 Redfish (COMSUBDIV 72)
Area : Mariana Islands
Days at sea : 19
Merchants sunk :
Merchant tonnage :
Warships sunk : 2
Warship tonnage : 7031
Awards :

NARRATION

02:40 Japanese boat attack

14:00 Enemy warship connection attack

23:40 Dive to a depth of 500 feet. The enemy was more fortunate than us.

https://youtu.be/MiHCfH6tdbM

LUKNER

12-30-21, 06:31 AM

PATROL 1 (28.05.1945 - 03.07.1945 )
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-268 Puffer (COMSUBDIV 72)
Area : Emperor Hirohito's Personal Lake
Days at sea :
Merchants sunk : 14
Merchant tonnage : 17852
Warships sunk :
Warship tonnage :
Awards : Bronze star

https://youtu.be/g58qPSz0eoU
https://youtu.be/vs5rt_ckY9Y

LUKNER

01-03-22, 01:15 AM

Career skipper Lieutenant Commander Thomas D. Dodge in the game Silent Hunter 4.
Mоd Silent Service 2.1
PATROL 1 ( 03.01.1944 - 15.03.1944 )
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-215 Growler (COMSUBDIV 201)
Area : South China Sea
Days at sea : 71
Merchants sunk : 5
Merchant tonnage : 40133
Warships sunk :
Warship tonnage :
Awards : Congressional Medal of Honor

NARRATION
microfilm
00:23:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Nabu Maru
00:40:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Zinbu Maru
01:17:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Oryoku Maru
01:30:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Nampo Maru
01:52:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Tonan Maru III

https://youtu.be/STJXscDB9ow

PATROL 2 ( 30.03.1944 - 23.05.1944 )
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-215 Growler (COMSUBDIV 201)
Area : Banda Sea - Manila
Days at sea : 53
Merchants sunk : 1
Merchant tonnage : 4109
Warships sunk : 2
Warship tonnage : 5071
Awards :

NARRATION
microfilm
00:18:00 The sinking of the destroyer Akizuki
00:37:00 The sinking of the destroyer Asashio
01:03:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Momoyama Maru

https://youtu.be/XvEhwMBjsvg

PATROL 3 ( 31.05.1944 - 16.07.1944 )
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-215 Growler (COMSUBDIV 201)
Area : South Coast of Japan
Days at sea : 47
Merchants sunk : 11
Merchant tonnage : 27521
Warships sunk : 1
Warship tonnage : 781
Awards : Congressional Medal of Honor, new submarine of the Balao class, SS-306 Tang

NARRATION
microfilm
00:18:00 Sinking of a road ship and a merchant ship Genei
00:35:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Hikawa Maru and fishing boat
00:55:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Akita Maru
01:10:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Biyo Maru
01:42:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Akita Maru
01:55:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Nagisan Maru
02:13:00 Unsinkable ship
https://youtu.be/tI-us2ROuFE

Bubblehead1980

01-04-22, 01:18 AM

LUKNER

01-04-22, 04:34 AM

I am really enjoying these videos and reports. I have not been on patrol in a few as have been out of town for the holidays. :Kaleun_Salute:

I am glad that my trips are of interest to someone. :Kaleun_Salute:

To be continued. The third campaign was updated at the post.

LUKNER

01-04-22, 11:56 AM

PATROL 4 ( 04.08.1944 - 11.09.1944 )
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-306 Tang (COMSUBDIV 6)
Area : Manila
Days at sea : 53
Merchants sunk : 2
Merchant tonnage : 12073
Warships sunk : 2
Warship tonnage : 1852
Awards :

NARRATION
microfilm
Part 1
01:25:00 The sinking of the merchant ship Asosan Maru (not counted, no confirmed data)
https://youtu.be/kBDXbt1O1Sw
Part 2 00:12:30 The sinking of the merchant ship Kinzyosan Maru (2). 1 destroyer, 1 PT boat
https://youtu.be/PRkQC1pXKHs
PATROL 5 ( 07.10.1944 - 02.11.1944 )
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-306 Tang (COMSUBDIV 6)
Area : Manila
Days at sea : 25
Merchants sunk : 5
Merchant tonnage : 28692
Warships sunk :
Warship tonnage :
Awards : medal Purple Heart, posthumously

NARRATION
microfilm
The boat from the trip did not return. According to intelligence in the area of operation of the Tang submarine, the enemy lost five merchant ships. Two of them, the enemy recognized the sinking in the port of Sanya, also southeast of the port, anti-submarine ships in shallow water sank an unknown submarine. Presumably there could be a Tang submarine
https://youtu.be/lC-L8IJaH9c
https://youtu.be/cvtO8Qz97_A

Mad Mardigan

01-04-22, 12:51 PM

I am glad that my trips are of interest to someone. :Kaleun_Salute:

To be continued. The third campaign was updated at the post.

Can rest assured, that even though.. this is the 1st time... or 1st time in some time (not sure of which is the case... what with travelling all over the forums here... it does tend to blur a bit... :D :yep::shucks:) that, it is interesting reads... as are the vast majority. Every once in a blue moon, you might... hit a pot hole, comments not worth dwelling on much less repeating... but those, for the most, are rare... :yep:

:Kaleun_Salute:

M. M.

Bubblehead1980

01-05-22, 11:17 PM

I am glad that my trips are of interest to someone. :Kaleun_Salute:

To be continued. The third campaign was updated at the post.

Absolutely. I love reading the patrols watching the videos, especially when am "in port" aka working on my next TMO Update release and not able to be out on patrol.

Hopefully this weekend I can get back on patrol. Thanks again and keep em coming.

LUKNER

01-05-22, 11:50 PM

Absolutely. I love reading the patrols watching the videos, especially when am "in port" aka working on my next TMO Update release and not able to be out on patrol.

Hopefully this weekend I can get back on patrol. Thanks again and keep em coming.

Good. I'll try. I played a model of an aggressive assertive submarine captain on previous patrols. The following patrols will devote the initial period of the war, according to the accepted doctrine for submarines: first of all, to be secretive and conduct reconnaissance operations.

Bubblehead1980

01-07-22, 08:19 PM

Good. I'll try. I played a model of an aggressive assertive submarine captain on previous patrols. The following patrols will devote the initial period of the war, according to the accepted doctrine for submarines: first of all, to be secretive and conduct reconnaissance operations.

Very nice. That is how I operate as well. I use the tactics of the time period and in my TMO Update, early war its rather dangerous not to patrol submerged in daylight when within enemy aircraft range, no SD radar at start of war, so kind of forces player to do so. Then in 1943 can start using the evolving tactics...surface runs, night surface attacks etc.

LUKNER

01-08-22, 02:59 AM

Very nice. That is how I operate as well. I use the tactics of the time period and in my TMO Update, early war its rather dangerous not to patrol submerged in daylight when within enemy aircraft range, no SD radar at start of war, so kind of forces player to do so. Then in 1943 can start using the evolving tactics...surface runs, night surface attacks etc.
Are there any historical criteria when the commander receives a new boat? Usually in the SН-4 after three patrols, a new boat above the class is given.

Mad Mardigan

01-08-22, 03:07 AM

Are there any historical criteria when the commander receives a new boat? Usually in the SН-4 after three patrols, a new boat above the class is given.

Know that with Bubblehead1980's TMO overhauled v2.5, that He reworked it where it takes well more than 3 patrols out, to be given promotion to a newer sub. Not exactly sure if I am remembering the exact number... correctly, but think it was somewhere in the neighborhood of... 20... I may be off on that figure... & if so, I willingly stand corrected.

Bubblehead, can confirm or refute that figure... as to its correctness. :shucks:

Hope this info is of use, Lukner. :shucks:

:Kaleun_Salute:

M. M.

Bubblehead1980

01-08-22, 04:55 AM

Are there any historical criteria when the commander receives a new boat? Usually in the SН-4 after three patrols, a new boat above the class is given.

How they sim offers new boats has factors but is somewhat random as well. This is linked to number of patrols rated as successful-excellent. To achieve promotion in TMO update, player needs six patrols at least of "good" or better rating to make Commander and twenty patrols to make Captain. I raised the "floor" for Commander to six and twenty for Captain because promotions were too soon and too easy to obtain before.

Upgrade to new sub appears to be dependent on

1. Next Class (So if have a Gato, next in line is a Balao)

2. Availability date of next class. So if have a Gato...next in line is a Balao, which becomes available in June 1943)

3. Career rating of player (internal number assigned by the sim based on performance on patrols)

4. Player Renown

5. Promotion or eligible for promotion appears to be linked with upgrade in some cases.

The stars have to be aligned so to speak, or somewhat aligned, but there is no guarantee for upgrade.

LUKNER

01-08-22, 06:14 AM

How they sim offers new boats has factors but is somewhat random as well. This is linked to number of patrols rated as successful-excellent. To achieve promotion in TMO update, player needs six patrols at least of "good" or better rating to make Commander and twenty patrols to make Captain. I raised the "floor" for Commander to six and twenty for Captain because promotions were too soon and too easy to obtain before.

Upgrade to new sub appears to be dependent on

1. Next Class (So if have a Gato, next in line is a Balao)

2. Availability date of next class. So if have a Gato...next in line is a Balao, which becomes available in June 1943)

3. Career rating of player (internal number assigned by the sim based on performance on patrols)

4. Player Renown

5. Promotion or eligible for promotion appears to be linked with upgrade in some cases.

The stars have to be aligned so to speak, or somewhat aligned, but there is no guarantee for upgrade.

I understand correctly what's in the NSS_Gato/NSS_Gato.cfg

[Unit]
ClassName=SSGato
3DModelFileName=data/Submarine/NSS_Gato/NSS_Gato
HumanPlayable=YES
Interior=data/Interior/NSS_Gato/NSS_Gato
UnitType=200
MaxSpeed=20.25
MaxSpeedSubmerged=8.75
Length=95
Width=8.3
:Kaleun_Wink:RenownAwarded= 360 Is it directly related?

LUKNER

01-08-22, 10:17 AM

PATROL 1 ( 07.12.1941 - 23.12.1941 )

Skipper : Lt Cdr Tyler H. Moore
Boat : SS-203 Tuna (COMSUBDIV 61)
Area : Atoll Wake
Days at sea : 16
Merchants sunk :
Merchant tonnage :
Warships sunk : 2
Warship tonnage : 23000
Awards :
https://youtu.be/dlHSsws5mAo

Bubblehead1980

01-08-22, 07:31 PM

I understand correctly what's in the NSS_Gato/NSS_Gato.cfg

[Unit]
ClassName=SSGato
3DModelFileName=data/Submarine/NSS_Gato/NSS_Gato
HumanPlayable=YES
Interior=data/Interior/NSS_Gato/NSS_Gato
UnitType=200
MaxSpeed=20.25
MaxSpeedSubmerged=8.75
Length=95
Width=8.3
:Kaleun_Wink:RenownAwarded= 360 Is it directly related?

The renown figures in the cfg of vessels indicate how much they are worth if sunk or if the number is negative i.e. -300, it means you lose 300 renown points if you sink the vessel. This is used on things such as hospital ships or neutral targets etc so take a big renown hit if sink them. Other than gaining of renown, this does not play into promotion, new boat etc for player.

Bubblehead1980

01-09-22, 10:37 PM

LUKNER

01-10-22, 04:49 AM

Enjoyed the video as always. Would you mind listing your mods?
Fashion assembly is called Silent Service by me. A few years ago, I undertook to translate your TMO 1.7 fashion into Russian, then details from RFB 2.0, RSRDC, FOTRSU_v1.004, KSD II, Soviet Fairway and many from small fashions went there. All that was to taste. Of course, it was not without my editorial office and work on campaigning, otherwise it would have turned into a salad that was not tasty.

LUKNER

01-12-22, 11:49 PM

PATROL 1 ( 17.01.1945 - 26.01.1945 )
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-417 Tench (COMSUBDIV 72)
Area : Formoza
Days at sea : 9
Merchants sunk :
Merchant tonnage :
Warships sunk : 4
Warship tonnage : 4154
Awards : medal Purple Heart
NARRATION
microfilm
The aggressive commander almost destroyed the boat, but returned to the base with a victory.
https://youtu.be/CHZTzViedvo
PATROL 2 ( 14.02.1945 - 28.03.1945 )
Skipper : Lt Cdr Thomas D.Dodge
Boat : SS-417 Tench (COMSUBDIV 72)
Area : Honshu
Days at sea : 46
Merchants sunk : 3
Merchant tonnage : 300
Warships sunk : 4
Warship tonnage : 2000
Rescued pilots : 10
Awards :
NARRATION
microfilm
https://youtu.be/SvHkr33Mh14
https://youtu.be/UzQhfPZznfU
https://youtu.be/mr4--QNp9sw

P.S. A question for a respected public. How do you think 2 patrols fit into historical realism? I slightly reconstruct the campaign to recreate the illusion of historical correspondence. For objectivity, it is important for me to the opinion of people who understand this topic.
(пер.)

Вопрос к уважаемой публике. Как вы считаете 2 патруль вписывается в исторический реализм? Я понемногу реконструирую кампаинг чтобы воссоздать иллюзию исторического соответствия. Мне для объективности важно мнение людей понимающие данную тему.

Mad Mardigan

01-15-22, 05:46 AM

P.S. A question for a respected public. How do you think 2 patrols fit into historical realism? I slightly reconstruct the campaign to recreate the illusion of historical correspondence. For objectivity, it is important for me to the opinion of people who understand this topic.
(пер.)

Вопрос к уважаемой публике. Как вы считаете 2 патруль вписывается в исторический реализм? Я понемногу реконструирую кампаинг чтобы воссоздать иллюзию исторического соответствия. Мне для объективности важно мнение людей понимающие данную тему.

As for historical aspects... it's feasible... seem to recall subs would go out with standing orders to do a patrol, then get add on objectives that were... essentially a whole patrol, in & of itself... on top of a patrol order.

iirc, those that did get orders that were, essentially a patrol in itself, added to their standing patrol orders... would hit the nearest accessible base... grab a quick restock up on fuel, torps, deck & anti air guns ammo... drop off a crew man, if needed to be done, & get a replacement crew man... if they were available (which was the case... :yep:) & then shove back off, in order to fufill that order... on top of standing orders.

If, I'm remembering correctly, on that... that is. :hmmm:

:Kaleun_Salute:

M. M.

Mad Mardigan

01-15-22, 06:39 AM

Sept. 4th, 1939
7th Flot., Kiel

After leaving the commander, saw to the provisioning of U-52, fuel, torps, food... then had crew cast off to get under way.

Verdamph, who ever made the decision, to turn a Underseeboot, into a mine layer.

Sept. 5th, 1939

After clearing the narrow passage to the Skagerrak and into the open waters of the Ost see, ordered a crash dive drill to periscope depth, then on getting to a deeper water area that permitted it... ordered a full out, crash dive drill.

Needed to make sure the dock workers on maintenance of the boot, were not sodden shirkers. Fortunately, for them... they were adequate, in their duty.

Sept. 6th, 1939

No ships sighted thus far, though it concerns Me, that 3 of our fore tubes are loaded with mines, per orders before sailing. If a ship is sighted, will not be in a position to fight... as it would take time to unload the mines, then reload torpedos.

Verdamph. Will be glad, when we are done with dropping them off, laying them, in the assigned area, so that My boot can get back to what it was designed to do... find & sink enemy ships... rather than laying mines.

Sept. 7th, 1939
05:48 hrs

Watch crew sighted smoke on the horizon in the early morning hours... went to the bridge, confirmed their sightings... and ordered ahead 1/3. Figured with the sun not yet risen, and with it at our backs... it may be that they have not caught sight of us. Verdamph mines... after some tense waiting, appeared they may have seen us... or changed course... ordered full stop & crash periscope depth.. as the area was shallow.

On reaching depth, determined that it was safe to go a bit deeper and ordered a drop to 25 meters. After giving that order, the hydrophone crewman, reported hearing screws from 3 warships. Of all the luck. 1 nearby & heading in our general direction, the other 2... were on a south south east heading, judging from the sounds... 2 were escorts, with the 3rd... a battleship, maybe a carrier. Never was able to determine as it was never sighted.

Ordered 1/3 back and silent running.

Since it would take time to unload, then reload torpedo's... could only wait until they cleared the area.

06:22 hrs

Ordered 15 degrees starboard to heading 255, .5 knots ahead, both engines

06:40 hrs

Hydrophone crewman, reported the nearer of the escorts, was headed off on a south south east heading it appears, their early on heading, before the course change that brought them in our direction, was part of a maneuver to check the area, as part of a possible warship group. It appears that we stumbled across a task force, exact composition... unknown outside of 2 escorts and a battleship or aircraft carrier. When it is safe to surface, will have a radio dispatch sent, giving best speed and heading estimate.

Hydrophone crewman, lost contact with any ships in the area. Upon confirmation of no screws detected, ordered a rise to periscope depth... where raised scope, then did a quick sweep, close in then a magnified search further out, for any signs of smoke, or aircraft in the area... if that was a carrier that passed us.

After sighting nothing, gave the order for ahead 1/3 & emergency surface. Once surfaced, ordered return to base course of 240, all ahead full.

Radio dispatch sent with all details of area & best speed & heading for the contact.

Bubblehead1980

01-16-22, 11:51 PM

Mad Mardigan

01-17-22, 12:34 AM

:Kaleun_Salute: Enjoyed the report

Glad you enjoyed it, as it's My 1st time.. on doing this.

This... 1, is on the U-boat side. Am working up on a Philippine's career & a Alaskan command career one, fleet boat wise.

May see, of doing 1 from a Brit perspective, in the Med... 1 in the IJN & 1 as a Russian skipper, as well.

May see of doing up 1, in an SH3 career... to boot... but posted there in the SH3 section... of course. :D :shucks: :yep:

Stay tuned for... further developments... & now... over to Fred, on sports... :oops: sorry, wrong theme.... :D

:Kaleun_Salute:

M. M.

Would include a... vid stream, but... this tired old computer's, not set up for that... & screenshots... gotta figure out what the heck Win did with their upgrade to 21H2 version... :hmmm: The means & methods, I was used to... are... kaput. Blasted Microsoft. :damn:

Bubblehead1980

01-18-22, 11:50 AM

Glad you enjoyed it, as it's My 1st time.. on doing this.

This... 1, is on the U-boat side. Am working up on a Philippine's career & a Alaskan command career one, fleet boat wise.

May see, of doing 1 from a Brit perspective, in the Med... 1 in the IJN & 1 as a Russian skipper, as well.

May see of doing up 1, in an SH3 career... to boot... but posted there in the SH3 section... of course. :D :shucks: :yep:

Stay tuned for... further developments... & now... over to Fred, on sports... :oops: sorry, wrong theme.... :D

:Kaleun_Salute:

M. M.

Would include a... vid stream, but... this tired old computer's, not set up for that... & screenshots... gotta figure out what the heck Win did with their upgrade to 21H2 version... :hmmm: The means & methods, I was used to... are... kaput. Blasted Microsoft. :damn:

Yes, I would like to do a video of my patrols as well but the gaming rig I use exclusively for SH 4, while in great condition, is older. I kept it specifically for the sim, since windows 10 etc seems to be a problem for many users. Have a second desktop and laptop user for personal and professional matters.

However, I am looking to get a new rig set up for SH 4. FOTRS will run on this rig, but with the interiors and all, ever increasing demand of TMO(which hope to have interiors by vickers03 someday) do not get the performance I would like. Perhaps once have a new rig, will be able to do videos of my patrols.

Mad Mardigan

01-18-22, 06:25 PM

After some exhausting digging... did manage to finally figure out the messed up means to work out taking screenie's... & just where in the h, e, double hockey sticks, Win in it's.... messed up mentality, decided to shove them.

managed to take a couple the other day.

Will see of, including some, in the next posting on reports.

:Kaleun_Salute:

M. M.

Mad Mardigan

01-22-22, 09:52 PM

Sept. 8th
07:35 hrs

After some time, finally arrived on station & near the area that Command, sent by radio message. Orford to the north & Harwick, off to the west

Transiting to the drop off point, crew sighted a swordfish... & ordered fast dive as deep as was possible.

Went evasive as soon as we submerged... while diving, heard bullets clanging off the hull. Not long after, heard 2 explosions... bombs or depth charges.

Was on a base course of 265 but made for 225, after submerging & gave the order ahead 1/3rd.

08:05

Hydrophone reported contacts moving fast, determined that their course was taking them to the area where we submerged initially. Stayed on course & ordered the crew to go to silent running. Had 1 contact pass very nearby, best guess was a motor torpedo boat. Best estimates based off sounds, were 2 armed trawlers & 3 or 4 torpedo boats, with a final contact, being a destroyer or destroyer escort. Believe that a plane or 2, joined in the hunt for where we were... and not where are. Which is good.

09:57

After some tense moments, having a 4th or 5th torpedo boat, pass nearby... reached the drop off point. Called for all stop & let the boat drift to a stop.

On being stopped, waited for a hydro sweep of the area & getting a confirmed no screws near by, ordered all tubes opened foreward... to drop those verdamph mines off.

Orders were to space them out 100-200 meters apart, in best estimate of enemy shipping movements. After reviewing the chart of the area, determined the best line was bow on a Northwest heading & backing out dropping off the mines as near to the orders given on spacing on a Southeast course.

10:15 hours

Last of those verdamph mines are set. Have crew loading torpedoes back in the tubes, and on orders received while laying them... am now on to patrolling a 30 km area in the vicinity, until further ordered else wise.

Picked up radio traffic, ordering some fellow U-boats, to take up station, between Iceland & the Faroe isle's... Good hunting to them...

Mad Mardigan

01-22-22, 10:10 PM

09/12/1941

Cavite base, Manilla Philippines

Man, what a sorry way to enter a war, bases loaded & 2 outs with 3 strikes against you already... feeling like the decks stacked against you, before you even get to the table.

Had hopes that we'd be able to steer clear of this whole mess... but... wasn't to be. *sighs* well... nothing to it but to muscle up & put an end to it.

Got our orders from the base commander. Take on all supplies & rations as needed, stow it all then take on some passengers and proceed to drop them off with all due haste off the area of Penang.

Only thing I know of that area, is what I've seen of it, on the nav map, & that... was after having Charles the nav guy, show Me just where the heck it was.

Is a long way off, from here in the Manilla area, to there... & it doesn't help when operational doctrine, was that subs were to be support & now... to have to figure out just how to take the lead, until our losses can be seen to & replaced.

Now, to head down to the dock & get the crew squared away...

Kal_Maximus_U669

01-23-22, 12:25 PM

On patrol in the Marshall Islands archipelago...
approaching the target...
at around 9:30 a.m. after having had a fierce fight with a destroyer...having to carry out a torpedo attack. By 10m:s who screwed up... because this one managed to dodge... I managed to escape him... 2 hours later I attacked on the surface I surprised him... then shot him down... .but suddenly 1/2 hour later the aviation these bring back with bombers is a fighter escort. There were many of them... I narrowly escaped the massacre..
I really like the atmosphere that reigns.. Congratulations to you my dear Bubblehead...
here under the fire of the aviation a terrible bombardment i was really hot ...
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2022/03/7/1642958925-sh4img-2022-01-23-17-41-47-414.png
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2022/03/7/1642958932-sh4img-2022-01-23-17-41-55-774.png

Bubblehead1980

01-23-22, 12:54 PM

Kal_Maximus_U669

01-23-22, 03:03 PM

:Kaleun_Salute: Glad are enjoying the mod. I am curious about the date and time of this action?
I don't know how I was so lucky no damage a miracle...
for you my friend :salute: :up:
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2022/03/7/1642968179-sh4img-2022-01-23-20-27-23-579.png

Bubblehead1980

01-26-22, 09:59 AM

Well, for first time ever in TMO, a submerged enemy AI sub got me with torpedoes. In development and testing, I had some close calls over 14 patrols in Drum 1942-1945 and other careers, but contact with them is still rare overall but this time. Usually was warned by sound man even if on surface, but with new sub sensors in next release , the hydrophones are not quite so effective on surface (they were a bit too effective , sub running at 20 knots and picking up sound contacts at long range lol)

Departed Pearl Harbor on Dec 9, 1941 at 1300 course 255 10 knots in USS Nautilus SS-168 (Subsim Donation Narwhal).

December 10, 1941

0000 Navigator reported position at 20-49 N 159-38 W 110 NM SW of Pearl Harbor.

Cruising on the surface at 10 knots course 255 in clear conditions with quarter moon astern, no fog, I was on the bridge, preparing to go below for the evening what BOOM! Large explosions rocked the boat, screen turned white momentarily due to splash of water. Reports of casualties and severe damage poured in.

Engine noises ceased, hull damage reported at 75 percent (lol should be higher, one of thus SH 4 things though) All diesel engines destroyed or severely damaged, large fuel leak. three bridge lookouts dead, one KIA. All engine rooms crew dead or severely injured. Heavy flooding in engines and control room. Sub going low in water.

(to have boat sink ordered a dive, working on a damage model where boat will sink from surface in such situation)

Listened on hydrophones and heard a submerged sub bearing 100 closing, also heard other torpedoes in water. Hull soon sunk below crush depth with such heavy hull damage.

Unfortunately, I had the external cam off as usually do, so no screenshots.
Bubblehead1980 is online Report Post

Bubblehead1980

01-26-22, 10:02 AM

I don't know how I was so lucky no damage a miracle...
for you my friend :salute: :up:
http://image.noelshack.com/fichiers/2022/03/7/1642968179-sh4img-2022-01-23-20-27-23-579.png

You definitely got lucky with no damage lol it happens though.:Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

01-27-22, 12:35 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH (forthcoming 2.0 vesion) plus pre-pearl harbor start, improved EAX sound, Subsim Donation Narwhal
100 difficult cams off contacts on

War Patrol Report
First War Patrol
USS Nautilus SS-168
11 December 1941-16 January, 1942

PROLOGUE

Arrived Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. 5 December from defensive patrol South of Midway Island. At 0803 7 December NAUTILUS went to General Quarters and got underway under emergency conditions during the Japanese attack on the harbor. NAUTILUS was strafed by single enemy fighters (A6M2) and returned fire on multiple enemy aircraft with .50 caliber Anti-Aircraft machine guns. Two enemy aircraft, a B5N torpedo bomber and A6M2 fighter were confirmed shot down by combination of forward and aft Anti-Aircraft guns.

Exited harbor by 0900 and submerged until nightfall after several near misses by enemy bombs. Entered harbor at 0800 8 December. Received orders to prepare for patrol. Twenty Four MK 14 torpedoes loaded, along with provisions for patrol. Ready for sea 10 December.

NARRATIVE

December 10, 1941

0900 Departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. for assigned patrol area off Eniwetok, Marshall Islands.

1300 Trim Dive.

1330 Surface.

December 11, 1941

0630 Trim Dive

0700 Surface

1930 Per operational orders in evening FOX traffic, set course for Wake Island to conduct defensive patrol in response to attempted enemy invasion early 11 December. Course 270, Speed 10.5 knots.

December 12, 1941

0630 Trim Dive

0700 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 13, 1941

0630 Trim Dive

0700 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 14, 1941

0715 Trim Dive

0735 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 15, 1941

0715 Trim Dive

0735 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 16, 1941

0715 Trim Dive

0735 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 17, 1941

0715 Trim Dive

0735 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 18, 1941

0715 Trim Dive

1914 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 19, 1941

0745 Trim Dive

1900 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 20, 1941

0750 Trim Dive

1900 Surface

En route assigned area.

December 21, 1941

0100 Estimated position fifteen nautical miles south of Wake Island.

0600 Wake Island spotted over horizon bearing 090, estimated range eleven miles.

0730 Submerged twenty miles south of Wake Island for patrol.

1001 OOD spotted multiple twin engine bombers (AIRCRAFT CONTACT
NO.1) via No.1 periscope inbound Wake Island.

1012 Large explosions and fires visible/audible from Wake Island.

1014 Observed twin engine bomber(AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.2) smoking
from port engine pass overhead. Aircraft exploded and crashed into
water, no survivors.

1930 Surfaced.

December 22, 1941

0800 Submerged for patrol

1301 South of Wake Island, sound reports distant fast, and heavy prop
noises. Assumed course 170 at 4.5 knots to investigate contacts.

1344 Observed smoke plumes and masts of multiple ships via No.1
periscope at bearing 340.

1345 General Quarters.

1410 Possible invasion force. One CA, two CL, two CVS, four AK/AP, and six
DD on estimated course and speed, 000 at 15 knots. Contact report
sent to COMSUBPAC.

1421 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1) Fired tubes 1,2 at Chitose Class CVS, fired
tubes 3,4, at Yubari Class CL.

1423:31 Explosion. Unknown at time, later determined to be premature
detonation.

1423:45 Explosion. Unknown at time, later determined to be premature
detonation.

1424:01 Observed torpedo hit just aft of bow of CVS, following by eruption
of fire, with large smoke plume.

1424:10 Observed premature detonation of torpedo ten yards from Yubari
Class CL.

1426 Destroyer astern 1500 yards, closing fast, pinging. Ordered depth
of 250 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1428 Depth charge Attack No. 1 began.

1441 NAUTILUS at depth of 250 ft on course 200, two close depth
charge explosions.(See Damage Section)

1458:11 Audible "clang" heard after of conning tower, believed to be
depth charge contacting aft deck.

1458:34 Depth Charge explosion close, below. (See Damage Section)

1844 Last depth charge explosion.

1921 Lost sound contact with enemy.

2200 Periscope depth, all clear. Secured silent running, surfaced.

December 23, 1941

0445 Received reports of enemy landings at Wake Island, closed
island on surface at best speed.

0551 Spotted ships anchored offshore, landing craft deploying on beach.
Two DE type vessels beached to unload troops.

0600 Submerged. General Quarters.

0715 While conducting approach on enemy transport, NAUTILUS
spotted by twin engine floatplane and bombed. Went to 250 ft,
rigged for depth charge and silent running, DD's closing fast.

0731 Began Depth Charge No.2

0801 Several close charges. No damage reported.

1002 End depth charge attack No.2

1930 Surfaced. Received word Wake Island fell to enemy. Conduct
operations in area.

December 24, 1941

0100 Received orders to proceed to assigned area in Marshall Island.

0700 Dive.

0730 Surface.

December 25, 1941

0700 Dive.

0730 Surface.

December 26, 1941

0700 Dive.

0730 Surface.

December 27, 1941

0700 Dive.

0730 Surface.

December 28, 1941

0745 Dive.

1900 Surface.

December 29, 1941

0745 Dive.

1900 Surface.

December 30, 1941

0745 Dive.

1900 Surface.

December 31, 1941

0745 Dive.

1900 Surface.

January 1, 1941

0000 Arrived in patrol area.

0745 Dive.

1900 Surface.

January 2, 1941

0800 Submerged for patrol.

1930 Surface.

January 3, 1941

0800 Submerged for patrol.

1930 Surface.

January 4, 1941

0534 Spotted Chidori Class torpedo boat bearing 011

0634 Submerged for attack.

0640 General Quarters

0711:10 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2) Fired stern tubes (5,6) at target.

0711:15 Torpedo (Tube #5) went into circle run.

0711:31 Large explosion audible. Believe to be premature detonation.

0712 Enemy closing at high speed, went to 200 ft, rigged for depth
charge and silent running.

1311 Depth charge attack ended. Lost contact with enemy.

1930 Surfaced. Due to fuel status, set course for Pearl Harbor.

January 5, 1941

0800 Submerged

1930 Surfaced.

January 6, 1941

0800 Submerged

1930 Surfaced.

January 7, 1941

0750 Enemy single engine floatplane spotted bearing 164 estimated range
6 NM. Ordered Dive to 150 ft.

0752 As Nautilus passed 75 feet, two explosions to port and above rocked
the boat, severely. Damage reported (See Damage Section), leveled
off at depth of 100 feet.

1934 Surfaced.

January 8, 1941

0800 Submerged

1930 Surfaced.

January 9, 1941

0800 Submerged

1930 Surfaced.

January 10, 1941

0800 Submerged

1930 Surfaced.

January 11, 1941

0800 Submerged

1930 Surfaced.

January 12, 1941

0800 Submerged

1930 Surfaced.

January 13, 1941

0800 Dive.

0830 Surfaced.

January 14, 1941

0800 Dive.

0830 Surfaced.

January 15, 1941

0800 Dive.

0830 Surfaced.

January 16, 1941

0800 Dive.

0830 Surfaced.

1135 Arrived Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. Terminated war patrol.

MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

Moderate damage was suffered in depth charge attacks, including hull damage discovered upon docking. This damage was likely caused by the close "bouncer" charge, which exploded soon after contacting the aft deck.

Damage sustained, but repaired at sea.

Trim Pump

Hydraulic Pump

No. 1 Diesel Engine

No. 2 Diesel Engine

No. 3 Diesel Engine

No. 4 Diesel Engine

No. 2 Electric Engine

No. 4 Electric Engine

Port Prop Shaft

Flooding-After Torpedo Room, moderate.

Flooding-Control room. Minor.

Stern Batteries

Stern Dive Planes Transmission

Torpedo Tube No. 5

Torpedo Tube No. 6

EPILOGUE

A busy, challenging patrol. Unexpected, and repeated torpedo malfunctions prevented sinking of enemy vessels, in spite of excellent opportunities presented, twice. Most concerning was the circular run, due to the obvious hazard such a malfunction poses. One torpedo did impact as aimed, causing apparent heavy damage to a large seaplane carrier. This may have left the invasion forces without air cover as little air activity was encountered in the area of the invasion.

LUKNER

01-28-22, 09:39 AM

https://youtu.be/hCP06hvgLUI

В тучах дымного тумана копы жгут марихуану.
Из тумана выполз ёж. В лапках держит острый нож.
В голове его такое!!! Нету ёжику покоя…
Можно к бабкам не ходить –-будет резать, будет бить…

=======================================

In clouds of smoke fog cops burn marijuana.
Hedgehog crawled out of the fog. He holds a sharp knife in his legs.
There's such a thing in his head!!!There's no resting hedgehog...
You can not go to your grandmothers -- will cut, will beat...

======================================

Вышел ежик из тумана, Вынул ножик из кармана.
Долго, долго выли волки,
Лишь к утру их вопли смолкли.
Положив свой нож в карман,
Ежик вновь ушел в туман.
Милый, милый, милый ежик,
У тебя хороший ножик!

=====================================

The hedgehog came out of the fog,He took the knife out of his pocket.
Long, long wolves,
Only in the morning they cried.
Putting his knife in his pocket,
Hedgehog went back into the fog.
Honey, honey, honey hedgehog,
You got a good knife!

LUKNER

01-29-22, 05:52 AM

https://youtu.be/w8iJWMDEKm4

Do not joke with destroyers, they are very angry and apt!

Не шутите с эсминцами, они бывают очень злые и меткие!

Bubblehead1980

01-29-22, 10:08 AM

https://youtu.be/w8iJWMDEKm4

Do not joke with destroyers, they are very angry and apt!

Не шутите с эсминцами, они бывают очень злые и меткие!

Enjoyed the video as always.:Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

01-29-22, 03:07 PM

(TMO 2.5 Update BH V2.0 (2.0soon to be released)
Donation Narwhal mod
100 difficult, cams and contacts off. )

War Patrol Report
USS Nautilus SS-168
War Patrol TWO
30 January-17 March 1942
Area 4

PROLOGUE

Returned from first war patrol on 16 January 1942. Repairs made, provisions loaded, including twenty four MK 14 torpedoes.SD Air Search Radar installed on 27-28 January and tested. Ready for sea 29 January 1942.

NARRATIVE

Departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 0900 on 30 January for Area 4 in the Japanese Home Islands via Midway. Conducted dive, torpedo fire control, emergency, and gunnery drills en route.

Arrived Midway at 0830 3 February 1942 and docked at submarine tender. Fuel and provisions topped off, departed Midway at 1400 hours. Turned to course 270 at 10 knots until nightfall, turned to course 280 at 10 knots.

Maintained standard underway routine en route to patrol area, with daily trim dive from 0700-730 each day from 4 February until 11 February. At 1000 on 11 February, NAUTLIUS picked up a SD contact at 8 NM closing and submerged to avoid. Position was roughly 32-30 N 154-40 E, 530 NM N of Marcus Island, and thus it is believed the contact was a patrol aircraft from Marcus Island. Remained submerged until 1930, surfaced and continued on course 280.

Beginning at 0730 on 12 February, daily routine was to submerge in daylight as NAUTILUS was now within range of patrol aircraft from various locations. Typical submerged speed was 3.5 knots on course 280. A depth of 90 feet was maintained, with ventures to periscope depth for observation every half hour, and a vigilant sound watch was maintained as well.

Arrived in Area 4 at 0000 17 February and began standard operations, submerging at daylight and surfacing just after dusk. Patrol depth was 100 ft with periscope observations every half hour and sound watch maintained.

Each day at least two large flying boat types, believed to be H6K were observed. Multiple motor powered fishing boats were observed and avoided in daylight.

However, at 0200 on 20 February, two of these boats were spotted just 4000 yards off port bow. BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION was called. At 0211, commenced firing on two fishing boats, estimated 200 tons each, from 2000 yards. Machine gun fire was returned from the lead boat, but was quickly silenced by two hits from six inch deck gun and multiple .50 cal machine guns hits. Ceased fire at 0214, as both ships were burning and adrift. Secured General Quarters and resumed course 000, arriving off the entrance to Sagami Way before dawn. NAUTILUS submerged just before dawn patrol, in hopes to interdict traffic coming and going from Tokyo Bay.

At 1131, spotted smoke of AK on course 180 in Sagami Wan. NAUTILUS went to GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO and began approach on course 270. A low flying, twin engine flying boat (H6K) flew over, requiring NAUTILUS to submerged to 100 feet to avoid being spotted in the calm, glassy morning seas. The flying boat, likely on her way out for morning patrol, showed no signs of detecting NAUTILUS. Back at periscope depth, identified the AK as the 7590 ton AK ,DAITOKU MARU on course 170 at 9 knots. NAUTILUS continued to close at 3.5 knots. At 1158 periscope observation, the AK was observed turning to course 280, ruining the set approach. Increased speed and attempted to save the attack, but was unable. Enemy air and surface patrols and close proximity to shore prevented further pursuit. NAUTILUS went to 100 feet and secured from GQ.

At 1700, sound reported fast screws bearing 160. NAUTILUS went to periscope depth and observed a DD at estimated 7000 yards, closing on course 005. The ASASHIO Class Destroyer, was apparently heading for Tokyo Bay. Luck of proper position at contact provided ideal set up., and thus GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO was ordered. Approach was made on course 090 at 3 knots. Enemy DD on course 005 at 16 knots. NAUTILUS closed to 1000 yards off the enemy's track. (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2) At 1718, fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3 on ideal track, one that seemed could not miss.

At 1718:20, loud explosion, torpedo detonation was heard. Apparent that the first torpedo prematurely detonated twenty seconds after launch. Periscope was raised and observed DD slowing and changing course as they detonation apparently alerted the DD. The second torpedo appeared that it would hit, but the wake was observed running below target just aft of amidships, likely a "deep runner."

Finally, the third torpedo missed just ahead of the bow perhaps by twenty feet or less as DD expertly maneuvered. DD then made a high speed turn, with one bow torpedo left in tube four, fired a "down the throat" shot from 600 yards and ordered a depth of 200 feet. A large torpedo explosion was heard as passed 85 feet, but believe was another premature explosion, not a hit. DD roared above, dropping four depth charges in close succession, shaking the boat.

Over the course of the next eleven and half hours, the DD hunted NAUTILUS making numerous attacks. (See ANTI-SUBMARINE TACTICS AND EVASION Section) . One particular attack came after two hours of silence, when DD suddenly rushed in pinging. NAUTILUS at 300 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge, began a slow turn to port, and increased to standard speed for a "burst" of speed as DD roared above. Five splashes were audible as depth charges hit the water. Two detonated, slightly shaking the boat, but not close. After several seconds of silence, a loud , "CLANG" was heard, apparently the sound of a depth charge bouncing off the hull, aft of conning tower. Twelve seconds later, the depth charge exploded, shaking the boat but not damage reported.

Finally, contact was last with the destroyer. NAUTILUS secured GQ, but remained at 300 ft and under Silent Running and Depth Charge conditions until 2300 hours when came to periscope depth. All cleared, NAUTILUS surfaced into the fresh area.

NAUTILUS proceeded to western sector of Area 4 and submerged off Suruga Wan at dawn 21 February for patrol. No contacts were made and surfaced at 2200 hours, proceeding back to eastern portion of area off Chiba Peninsula.

During the morning trim dive at 0900( local) on 22 February, sound detected faint prop noises bearing 075. Turned to course 075 at 5 knots to investigate. By 0930, noise was strongly believed to be a merchant type vessel, but distance was not closing at rate desired, indicating vessel was heading away from NAUTILUS. Thus, after a careful SD sweep, surfaced at 0955 on course 080 at flank speed.

At 1016, lookouts spotted smoke of large AK on horizon bearing 354. NAUTILUS came about to parallel contact, pull ahead for dive and approach for attack. At 1024 SD detected a contact at nine miles, closing fast. Ordered a dive to 100 feet. NAUTILUS returned to periscope depth at 1045, extended the SD antenna for a sweep with no contact. The contacted vessel's smoke plume was visible in the light morning haze bearing 100. NAUTILUS surfaced at 1100 and went ahead flank.

At 1135, NAUTILUS submerged for approach and attack and GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO was called. At 1150, identified the contact as a tanker of the ANJO MARU Class, 2,800 tons on course 030 at 9.5 knots. NAUTILUS
conducted a classic submerged approach at 3.5 knots and readied all four bow tubes, torpedo depth set to 15 feet, as target was believed to have draft of 14 feet. (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2) At 1200 NAUTILUS fired tube No.1 from 1000 yards. Torpedo ran true and exploded beneath the keel. The tanker was likely empty of volatile fuel cargo was it did not explode was expected, but did lose its way, and sound confirmed engine noises ceased. After fifteen minutes, the stubborn little AO has not sunk, ordered Tube No.2 fired at 1215. Eleven seconds after firing and just yards from target, torpedo prematurely detonated, confirmed visually and acoustically. At 1217 fired tube No.3 and at 1217:44, observed torpedo impact side of vessel, but fail to explode. The "clang" of the impact was audible via sound gear and throughout the hull of NAUTILUS. At 1218 fired tube No.4, which veered off to port, suffering a possible gyro failure. Ordered immediate turn to port to bring stern tubes to bear on target.

At 1233, fired Tube No. 5, observed wake pass below target without detonation. Fired Tube No. 6 which again, detonated just yards from target, but after passing below target. With no desire to waste anymore torpedoes before could be checked out, nor to wait for enemy vessels in area to arrive, NAUTILUS surfaced for BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION at 1246. Upon surfacing, immediately opened from 3500 yards on the unarmed tanker. Gun accuracy was excellent and effective as tanker was soon burning and at 1255, guns ceased fire as tanker settled in water. At 1300, fired four more rounds from each six inch gun at waterline, which finished off the tanker. ANYJO MARU 2800 tons sunk 1321 hours at 34-53N 141-14E 22 February. Two life boats were spotted as NAUTILUS cleared the area at flank speed and secured from GQ.

SD radar contacted was detected at 1342 hours, NAUTILUS submerged to avoid and remained so for rest of the day, surfacing at 2200 (local).

Patrol of the area on 23-27 February brought no contacts, other than daily patrol aircraft. However, at 0200 on 28 February, lookouts spotted the silhouette of a ship on the horizon at bearing 065. Contact was tentatively identified as a AK of 5000+ tons. Low visibility necessitated a shadowing before attacking submerged at dawn. NAUTILUS matched course 030 at 9 knots of next few hours. Finally at 0915 local, with the AK astern, NAUTILUS submerged for attack. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO was called and approach was conducted on course 095 at 4 knots. Upon observation at 0936, it was revealed target had slightly course course. NAUTILUS compensated for this by speeding up to 6 knots to close range. Upon next observation, set up was ideal. Target was identified as AK of the KENJYO MARU Class, 7,627 tons. Tubes 1,2,3,4 made ready for firing. Torpedo No.1 was set to a depth of 25 feet, as target draft was 24 feet. Torpedo No. 2 was set to ten feet, aiming to take advantage of the backup contact exploder. A keel shot and side impact on such a large ship was believed to be best solution for sinking.

(TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4) At 0951, fired tubes 1,2, from 1000 yards, AOB 90, ideal track. Just after raising scope, observed Torpedo No.1, at 20 feet or less from target, prematurely detonate. Torpedo No.2 hit target right under stack, causing a large explosion, likely of the boilers. Ship went dead in water, sound reported engine noises ceased. At 0954, fired tube 3 , set for depth of 25 feet. Torpedo wake again observed passing below target. Fired tube 4, set to depth of 5 feet. Torpedo hit as aimed, but failed to detonate. The audible "clang" of the impact of the torpedo with target hull was audible aboard NAUTILUS and on sound gear. With forward tubes empty, turned NAUTILUS to bring stern tubes to bear, while forward tubes were reloaded.

Tubes 5,6 and were fired, on minimum depth setting from 800 yards at ten second intervals. Both torpedoes prematurely exploded en route to target. NAUTILUS again turned to bring bow tubes to bear as last three bow torpedoes were loaded into tubes. Tubes 2 and 3 were fired at 1041 hours, torpedo 2 prematurely detonated less than 10 yards from target, after passing below the keel. Torpedo 3, set to minimum depth, ran true and exploded, just forward of the amidships, starting a fire.

However, the large AK refused to sink. Fired tube 4 (final bow torpedo) which after launch, jogged to starboard, before going into a circular run. NAUTILUS, as it did when experienced this malfunction on War Patrol One, went to 100 feet and waited until torpedo reached its end of run.

Back at periscope depth, with stern tubes brought to bear, fired final two stern torpedoes, set for minimum depth from 700 yards. Both torpedoes hit as aimed, but failed to detonate, the clang again clearly audible through hull and on sound. NAUTILUS, out of torpedoes opened the range.

After some contemplation, decided to open range to 6000 yards and utilize the six inch deck guns. The KENJO MARU was heavily armed with what happened to be four inch guns in the bow and stern. However, the risk was considered worth the reward, for this was a large important cargo vessel.

NAUTILUS went to 100 feet and passed below the AK and opened range to 6000 yards. BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION was called at 1120 and after a SD sweep , NAUTILUS surfaced parallel to the target. At 1122, NAUTILUS opened fire with fore and aft deck guns from 6200 yards off targets starboard side. Target returned fire, with a few shell splashes observed in our vicinity but not close. Thirteen hits from NAUTILUS's six inch guns, left the AK burning and sinking, when suddenly a large explosion happened Four minutes after last six inch gun hit. The AK split into two sections at amidships. KENJO MARU 7627 tons sunk at 34-20N 140-10E, 1159 hours.

NAUTILUS submerged at 1204 for SD contact at 8 miles and remained so for rest of day due to heavy enemy ASW air and surface activity in area. Surfaced at 2230 and set course for Pearl Harbor, as all torpedoes were expended. NAUTILUS proceeding at 10 knots had enough fuel to make Pearl Harbor and did not stop at Midway en route. On the morning of 17 March, 1942, NAUTILUS arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. and terminated war patrol.

ATTACKS

Three torpedo and the gunnery actions occurred on this patrol. Twenty torpedoes were fired, for four hits. Several "can't miss" shots were in facted missed, due to repeated torpedo malfunctions. Malfunctions include premature detonation of torpedoes before reaching the target, failure to detonate when impacting the target, running deeper than set and thus running too far below target, failing to actuate the magnetic exploder, apparent gyro failures, and circular run. These failures, aside from serving as a source of great frustration, put NAUTILUS and her crew in grave danger. Failures in Attack No.1 led to NAUTILUS enduring a eleven and half hour counter attack. The circular run Attack No. 3 presented grave danger as well.

Gunnery performance, of both crew and equipment was excellent and finished off both vessels damaged by torpedoes that managed to work. A total of 52 6' 53 caliber shells were expended for 36 confirmed hits.

SHIPS SUNK

AO ANJO MARU
2800 tons
1942-02-22 1321
34-53N 141-14E
Sunk by torpedo and gunfire

AK KENJO MARU
1942-02-28 1159
34-20N 140-10E
Sunk by torpedo and gunfire.

Fishing Boat #1 (Armed)
200 tons
1942-02-20 0215
34-34N 139-46E
Sunk by gunfire

Fishing Boat #2
200 tons
1942-02-20 0215
Sunk by gunfire
34-34N 139-46E

Contacted and/or Attacked (Not Damaged)

DD Asashio
1200 tons
1942-02-20 1700
35-3N 139-44E

NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

Cape Taibusa, Boso Peninula and Oshima Island aided in navigation
while in patrol area.

AIRCRAFT CONTACTED

Multiple twin engine patrol planes, believed to be H6K type were observed in patrol area. Enemy patrols the Tokyo area and offshore fairly extensively with aircraft and armed picket vessels, such as fishing boats sunk on 20 February.

ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Enemy aircraft appear to form the backbone of ASW patrol in Area 4, along with pickets. However, it is believed area is patrolled by Destroyers on a regular basis.

The depth charge attack of 20 February was intense, persistent, and accurate. Pinging of active sonar was dominant through attack, enemy did go silent for periods of time to listen for contact. Enemy sonar effectiveness appeared to wane once NAUTILUS reached 250 feet. Although, their persistence allowed apparent intermittent contact, resulting a prolonged pursuit.

Should be noted that most depth charges appeared to be set too shallow to do more than rattle the boat and crew, with the exception of one lucky charge, which bounced off the aft deck. The audible "CLANG" which broke the silence, was a bit disconcerting. The charge exploded about eleven seconds after bouncing off the deck, shaking the boat.

Evasion was conducted by silent running, with frequent course changes. Initial depth for evasion was 150 feet, working down to 300 feet. Speed "bursts" were used as required when enemy passed above or close aboard.

MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

Depth charge attack of 20 February caused minor damage. All damage repaired at sea unless otherwise indicated.

1. Trim Pump

2. Hydraulic Pump

3. Piping Leaks

4. High Pressure Air Line Leaks

5.Busted light bulbs-All compartments

6. Aft Battery

RADAR

SD Air Search Radar performed well with typical detection range of eight nautical miles.

SOUND CONDITIONS AND SOUND GEAR

Sound conditions were general mediocre throughout the patrol area.

Sound gear functioned above average considering conditions.

THERMAL LAYERS

Thermal Layers were detected at 200 and 160 feet.

RADIO

Radio performance was normal throughout patrol.

PERSONNEL

Crew performance was excellent throughout patrol, even under trying conditions such as the prolonged depth charge attack of 20 February and repeated torpedo failures.

Eight men and two Officers qualified on this patrol.

HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Crew health was overall satisfactory. Three delayed cases of venereal disease arose shortly after departing Midway, likely acquired from last shore leave following first patrol. Cases were successfully treated.

Conditions aboard the boat remained overall satisfactory with well prepared meals, mostly calm sea conditions, and overall favorable weather.

MILES STEAMED/FUEL CONSUMED

Pearl Harbor-Midway
Miles 1,325
Gallons 20,244

Midway-Area
Miles 2,750
Gallons 40,650

In Area
Miles 5,250
Gallons 55,221

Area-Pearl
Miles 4095
Gallons 52,288

DURATION

DAYS

Pearl-Midway 4

Midway-Area 14

In Area 11

Area-Pearl 17

FACTORS IN ENDURANCE

FUEL 11,554 gallons

TORPEDOES 0

PROVISIONS 29 days

PERSONNEL Indefinite

Reason for Termination of Patrol- All Torpedoes Expended

REMARKS

A successful patrol with a tanker and large merchant sunk, plus two fishing boats for a total of 10, 827 tons tons. While proud of this accomplishment, results of patrol could have been better with more time on station, but this was preempted by repeated torpedo malfunctions and thus it is sincerely hoped this issues are resolved as soon as possible.

J.P. Thew, CDR, USN.

LUKNER

01-29-22, 11:06 PM

ConvoyHunting

01-30-22, 04:49 PM

Bubblehead1980

01-31-22, 02:12 PM

Great, as usual !

:Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

02-02-22, 07:17 PM

TMO Update BH V 2.0 (2.0 in testing process, not yet released)
Donation Narwhal from Subsim+TMO Upgrade Package (oack not yet released
100 difficulty
Cams, Contacts, left on, plus next/prev cam restored for this patrol for testing Battle of Midway.

War Patrol Report
USS Nautilus SS-168
War Patrol Three
24 May-14 July 1942

PROLOGUE

Returned from SECOND War Patrol on 22 March 1942 , docked at Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. Commenced shore leave
for crew. Dry dock period on 1 April-14 May, followed by training. Loaded twenty four MK 14 torpedoes and provisions 21-23 May. LCDR W.H. Brockman Jr. , USN, relived LCDR J.P. Thew, USN, of command. Ready for sea 24 May.

NARRATIVE

May 24, 1942

1600 Departed Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. for assigned patrol area North of Midway Island.

1730 Dive

1800 Surface

May 25, 1942

0700 Dive

0730 Surface

1000 Begin gunnery, dive, and fire control drills.

1230 End drills

May 26, 1942

0730 Dive

0800 Surface

May 27, 1942

0730 Dive

0800 Surfaced

May 28, 1942

0730 Dive

0800 Surfaced

May 29, 1942

0730 Dive

0800 Surface

May 30, 1942

0730 Dive

0800 Surface

May 31, 1942

June 1, 1942

0000 Arrived in assigned area, North-West of Midway for defensive patrol operations.

0730 Dive

1900 Surface

June 2, 1942

0530 Storms arrived in area. Overcast with heavy precipitations, fog. Winds at 20 knots, direction 129.

0730 Trim Dive

1000 Surface

June 3, 1942

Storms continued.

0730 Trim Dive

0900 Surface

June 4, 1942

0230 Storms cleared.

0545 Observed PBY "STRAWBERRY 5" 29-31N 178-29W Course 000 Altitude 2000 (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.1) . Exchanged recognition signals.

0603 Dive

0644 Sound reported distant, heavy, fast props bearing 317 long range. Ordered course 300 to investigate.

0658 Spotted DD bearing 331 six miles. 29-36N 178-30W. Course 125, Speed 20 knts. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO

0703 Second DD spotted. Course 125 20 knots.

0708 DD closing fast. 200 ft depth ordered. Rigged for Silent Running and Depth Charge.

0712 NAUTILUS at 200 ft. DD passed above, no signs of detection.

0714 Ordered periscope depth. Sound tracking "large, noisy, fast, props" bearing 020 estimated 7500 yards.

0716 Opened outer doors tubes 1-4

0718 (TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1) Spotted Nagara Class CL bearing 030 1600 yards Course 145 Speed 24 knots. Fired Tubes 1-4

0718:20 Premature detonation observed/audible.

0718:31 Premature detonation observed/audible.

0718:35 Premature detonation observed/audible.

0718:44 Premature detonation observed/audible.

0719 Pinging. DD astern 1200 yards closing. Ordered 250 ft. Rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0720 Begin DC attack No.1 Splashes heard above.

0721 DC explosions, above.

0724 Close DC, above.

0725 Thermal layer detected at 270 feet. Leveled boat at 275 feet.

0726 Pinging. Sound reports second DD arriving from bearing 270.

0730

0930 Depth charge attack ended. Destroyers heard leaving area high speed.

0944 Lost sound contact. Secured GQ. Reload of tubes commenced.

1103 Sound contact, fast props bearing 000, long range.

1104 Course 075 4 knts. Periscope depth.

1422 DD spotted bearing 022 8 NM. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO.

1445 Spotted damaged CV (previous air attacks) bearing 011 7 NM. CV appears burning and dead in water.

1446 Began approach on damaged CV. CV somewhat down by stern but afloat.

1525 CV identified as SORYU. One DD alongside providing assistance

, second DD patrolling immediate area west, third DD patrolling to east.

1600 DD approaching in sweep west of CV. Rigged for silent running, depth charge, ordered 300 ft.

1610 At 300 feet, DD passed above, did not detect NAUTILUS. Continued on approach course 060

1615 Ordered periscope depth.

1616 Several large explosions audible in area, unknown origin. Possibly damaged CV.

1619 Periscope depth. CV SORYU nearing 355 4850 yards. Explosions visible, smoke and flames from stern flight deck.

1622 DD alongside suddenly got underway. Sound reports DD's closing, fast.

1623 Ordered 300 ft, rigged for silent running, depth charge.

1624 Pinging.

1628 DC Attack No.2 began. DC explosions, above.

1634 Pinging. DC explosions astern.

1643 Close DC above, damaged reported (See Major Defects and Damage Section)

1655 DC explosions.

1702 Pinging.

1703 DC explosions, astern, distant.

1705 DD above. Splashes.

1739 Passed below carrier. Depth 330 ft.

1742 DD above, DC explosions close.

1743 Battery power reported at 40 percent.

1909 Large explosions, breaking up noises heard. Possibly CV sinking, breaking up.

1914 Close DC. Damage reported.

1917 DD above. DC splashes.

1948 DC explosions. Damage Reported (See Damage, Defects)

1949 Flooding in Forward Torpedo Room. Damage Control Party dispatched.

1952 Forward torpedo reported multiple leaks, attended by DC party.

1953 Depth control difficulties encountered due to forward flooding. Trim Pump heavily damaged, undergoing repairs.

1956 Flooding in forward torpedo compartment reported under control. Bilges reported filled, one foot of water reported in compartment.

1957 Pumping water to compensate.

2012 Trim Pump reported semi operational. Most depth control restored.

2100 Battery power reported at 25 percent

2230 Enemy appeared to lose contact

June 5, 1942

0011 Sound check remains clear. Ordered Periscope Depth

0017 Both periscopes non operational, apparently damaged in attack.

0025 Surfaced. DD spotted laying to at 8000 yards bearing 127. Did not detect NAUTILUS.

0501 No.1 Periscope Repaired (Control Room)

0600 Dive

1300 No. 2 Periscope Repaired (Conning Tower)

1900 Surface Course 090. Maintained defensive station as ordered.

June 6, 1942

0700 Dive

1930 Surface

June 7, 1942

0700 Dive

1142 Spotted US CV Task Force (CV Enterprise, CV Hornet) 29-27N 178-31 W. Course 240 25 knots.

1930 Surface

June 8, 1942

0700 Dive

1930 Surface

June 9, 1942

0400 Ordered to proceed to Midway at best speed.

June 10, 1942

0500 Docked Midway. Refueled and provisioned, damage repaired.

June 11, 1942

Refueled and provisioned, damage repaired. throughout the day

0900 Received orders from COMSUBPAC to proceed to patrol Areas 4A , 4B off Honshu. Ready for sea 12 June.

June 12, 1942

0600 Departed Midway for assigned areas 4A, 4B. Course 275 Speed 10 knots.

June 13, 1942

En route patrol area.

0700 Dive

0730 Surface

June 14, 1942

En route patrol area.

0700 Dive

0730 Surface

June 15, 1942

En route patrol area.

0700 Dive

0730 Surface

June 16, 1942

En route patrol area.

0700 Dive

0730 Surface

June 17, 1942

En route patrol area.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

June 18, 1942

En route patrol area.

0800 Dive

2100 Surface

June 19, 1942

Within range of aircraft from Honshu, Bonin Islands, and Marcus Islands. Four hundred nautical miles
from assigned areas.

0800 Dive

1956 Aircraft Spotted (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO.2) bearing 337. Ordered 150 ft. NAUTILUS was not spotted.

2230 Surface

June 20, 1942

0831 Dive

2300 Surface

June 21, 1942

0900 Dive

1953 (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 3) Spotted "MAVIS" bearing 216 9000 yards. Ordered 150 feet.

2100 Periscope depth.

2300 Surface

June 22, 1942

0000 Entered Area 4A

0915 Dive

2300 Surfaced

June 23, 1942

0935 Dive

2300 Surface

June 24, 1942

0920 Dive

2323 Surface

June 25, 1942

1000 Dive

1232 Spotted two armed fishing boats/pickets bearing 123.

1235 GENERAL QUARTERS-BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION

1242 Surface

1249 Sunk 200 ton armed fishing boat by gunfire. Four six inch hits. Target burned, sunk.

1254 Sunk 200 tons armed fishing boat by gunfire. Three six inch hits, numerous .50 mag hits. Target exploded, sunk.

Both boats sunk at 34-13N 141-04E

June 26, 1942

0915 Dive

2305 Surface

June 27, 1942

0915 Dive

2305 Surface

June 28, 1942

0915 Dive

2305 Surface

June 29, 1942

0915 Dive

2305 Surface

June 30, 1942

0915 Dive

2305 Surface

2330 Batteries, possibly from damage sustained in earlier DC attack not holding full charge.
Fuel is lower than estimated, possible fuel leak. With minimum patrol time requirement met,
turned east for Pearl Harbor via Midway. (See Major Defects and Damage Section)

July 1, 1942

0000 Course 092 at 12 knots en route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

0920 Dive

2320 Surface

July 2, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway. Uneventful.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 3, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway. Uneventful.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 4, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway. Uneventful.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

1710 (AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 4) "MAVIS" sighted bearing 176. Range steady. Ordered Dive to 150 ft.

No attack developed, NAUTILUS not sighted.

2300 Surface

July 5, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway. Uneventful.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 6, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway. Uneventful.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 7, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway. Uneventful.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 8, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway. Uneventful.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 9, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway. Uneventful.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 10, 1942

1230 Docked Midway to fuel.

1700 Departed Miway for Pearl Harbor.

July 11, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 12, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 13, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor.

0800 Dive

0830 Surface

July 14, 1942

0800 Docked Submarine Base Pearl Harbor T.H. Terminated War Patrol.

CONTACTS

Aircraft Contacts

No.

1. 1942/06/04 0545
29-31N 178-29W
Brg. 180 Rng 5 NM Crs. 000 Alt. 2000
PBY Catalina "STRAWBERRY 5"
SD/Visual
Exchanged Rec. Signals

2. 1942/06/04 1956
32-4N 142-3E
Brg.337 Rng. 3000 yd Crs. 300 Alt. 1000
H6K MAVIS
Visual

3. 1942/06/21 1953
33-0N 142-15E
Brg. 216 Rng. 5000 yd Crs. 090 Alt.1500
H6K MAVIS
Visual

4.1942/07/04 1710
28-59N 161-0E
Brg. 176 Rng. 8000 yd Crs. 030 Alt. 2000
H6K MAVIS
Visual-SD failed to detect.

Ship Contacts

No.

1. 1942/06/04 0658
29-36N 178-30W
Brg. 331 Rng. 6 NM
Crs. 125 Spd. 20-24 kts
CV (4), BB (2) CA (2+) CL (2+) DD (8+)
Enemy CV Task Force NW Midway. Contact Report Sent.

2. 1942/06/04 0718
29-36N 178-30W
Brg. 030 Rng. 1500 yd
Crs. 145 Spd. 24 kts
CL (Nagara Class)
Torpedo Attack No.1

3. 1942/06/04 1542
30-38N 177-25W
Brg.011 Rng. 7 NM
Crs. 350 Spd. 0 kts
CV (1) DD(2)
Damaged CV SORYU, dead in water, burning.
Believed sunk at 1909.
DD's were Asashio or Kagero Class, one patrol,
one guarding, assisting survivors.

4. 1942/06/07 1142
29-27N 178-31W
Crs. 240 Spd 25 knots
Brg. 090 Rng. 9 NM
CV(2) CA, CL, DD
Task Force 16 (Enterprise, Hornet)
Exchanged Rec. Signals w. Benham DD-397

5. 1942/06/25 1232
34-13N 141-05E
Crs. 230 Spd. 7 kts
Brg. 123 Rng. 5000
Armed Fishing Boats x2
Sunk by Gunfire in Gun Action No.1

ATTACK DATA

Attack Narrative

Observed enemy CV Task Force on morning of 4 June, went to GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO, sent contact report to COMSUBPAC, and commenced approach for attack. After being forced deep to avoid on rushing DD, came back to periscope depth and found NAUTILUS was on far port side of the task force with vessels spaced 2500-3000 yards apart. The flat decks and island structures of four CV were observed, as well as pagoda masts of BB but were not lined up for a shot, as the a Nagara Class CL was just 1500 yards away. Taking the hand dealt, a solid firing solution was worked up on the CL and four torpedoes were fired in what seemed a "can't miss" shot. However, all four torpedoes would prematurely exploded before reaching target, one torpedo one perfect track to impact target amidships, likely a fatal blow to a CL of that tonnage, exploded roughly 50 yards from target. NAUTILUS was then forced deep to avoid counter attack from escorting DD's, allowing the task force to open range and thus NAUTILUS lost contact.

Later on 4 June, located the CV SORYU , crippled by air attack earlier in the day and commenced approach. Unfortunately, was somehow detected during approach at 5000 yards, possibly due to unobserved aircraft covering the scene, and was forced deep, to endure a six hour counterattack, which caused heavy damage.

At 1909, obvious sounds of a large vessel breaking up, along with explosions, as well explosions heard through afternoon, were heard. Upon surfacing while the DD was in sight, the large CV, which would have been visible was nowhere to be found, as she apparently succumbed to her wounds.

No other targets were encountered during the patrol worth of torpedo. However, a gun action did occur on 25 June, in which two armed fishing boats/pickets were sunk by gunfire.

USS Nautilus SS-168
THIRD War Patrol
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

DATE 4 June 1942
TIME 0718
LAT 29-40N
LONG 178-30W

TYPE OF ATTACK

Submerged, Periscope (No.2), day.

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (AT FIRING)

NAME NAGARA(?)
CLASS NAGARA
TYPE CL
COURSE 147
SPEED 24 knots
BEARING 020
TRUE BEARING 278
RANGE 1400
AOB 85
REMARK
Part of CV Task Force

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (AT FIRING)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 23451
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1803
GYRO 0
COURSE 258
TRACK 107
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 3 degrees
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely Detonated

TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 2352
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1805
GYRO 0
COURSE 258
TRACK 107
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 3 degrees
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely Detonated

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 23453
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1807
GYRO 0
COURSE 258
TRACK 107
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 3 degrees
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely Detonated

TUBE NO. 4
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 23455
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1809
GYRO 0
COURSE 258
TRACK 107
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 3 degrees
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely Detonated

OWN SHIP DATA (AT FIRING)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 260
SPEED 3 kts
ANGLE 1 down
SEA STATE Calm, light Chop. Wind at 1 knot, direction 179.

USS Nautilus SS-168
THIRD War Patrol
GUN ACTION NO.1

DATE 25 June 1942
TIME 1242
LAT 34-13N
LONG 141-04E

ACTION NARRATIVE

While on submerged patrol, OOD manning No.2 periscope in conning tower observed masts and sails
bearing 123, ordered closing for review of contacts. Upon reaching conning tower, Commanding Officer
reviewed contacts from 1000 yards, where machine guns/auto-cannon of unknown caliber were visible. Finding it
likely these fishing vessels also serviing as ASW picket vessels, chose to open the range and engage.

BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION was called and range opened to 5000 yards with NAUTILUS positioned for
broadside attack, at which point tanks were blown for
rapid surfacing at 1242 .Commenced firing at 1244, four hits scored on Target No.1 , the
trailing target, second in the column. This target opened fire briefly but the hits and subsequent fires silenced these guns.
Burning bow to stern and adrift, crew members were observed manning a liferaft. Disengaged and increased speed to close range on
lead vessel, which was now maneuvering wildly and firing random MG/AC bursts in direction of NAUTILUS. Splashes observed off starboard bow, not close.

At 3000 yards forward six inch gun opened fire, scoring two near misses soon after, which caused the boat to take a hard port turn and
"Cross the T" of NAUTILUS at just 2500 yards. Six inch opened fire as did the forward .50 cal MG. The six inch scored two direct hits and forward MG scored many.
Fires soon broke out, but the persistent boat continued firing on NAUTILUS, without scoring hits.

NAUTLUS, no wishing to close further, made a swing to port to bring broadsides to bear. However,
another six inch hit followed by a fusillade of .50 cal MG fire from fore and aft machine guns
set off a large explosion, leaving the boat a flaming wreck, which quickly capsized with no survivors observed.

The first target wss no longer visible, just a debris field and smoke marking its location. Cease fire and decks cleared was ordered.
Turned course 180 at high speed and secured from GQ.

ROUNDS EXPENDED

6" 53 Caliber- 21

.50 Caliber MG- 215

HITS-

6' 53 Caliber- 7 HE (4 on Target 1, 3 on Target 2)

.50 Caliber MG - 100-125 AP

TARGET DATA (at firing)

TARGET No. 1

NAME N/A
CLASS Fishing Boat-Picket-Armed
TYPE Motorized/Sail
TONS 200
COURSE 260
SPEED 7 knts
BEARING 090
RANGE 5000-2500 yards
REMARK
Boat armed with machine guns/auto cannon of unknown caliber, opened fire, no hits on NAUTILUS.

TARGET No. 2

NAME N/A
CLASS Fishing Boat-Picket-Armed
TYPE Motorized/Sail
TONS 200
COURSE 010
SPEED 8 knts
BEARING 040
RANGE 3000-2500 yards
REMARK
Boat armed with machine guns/auto cannon of unknown caliber, opened fire, no hits on NAUTILUS.

Ships Sunk

Fishing Boat-Armed-Picket
200 tons
6/25/1942 1249 (local)
34-13N 141-05E

Fishing Boat-Armed-Picket
200 tons
6/25/1942 1252 (local)
34-13N 141-05E

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

Own Ship Data (in relation to target at firing)

COURSE 260
SPEED 17-10 knots
AOB 70-100 degrees, port.

NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

No navigational aides were sighted during this patrol.

WEATHER

Weather off Midway was calm and clear with exception of a storm front rolled into area on 3 June and cleared at 0300 4 June.

Weather en route to patrol areas 4A/4B was mostly pleasant as well as pleasant in area. Heavy seas and winds did kick up final day in patrol area.

TIDES

Tidal conditions encountered were normal for the areas.

ANTI SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Depth Charge Attack No.1
4 June 1942
0720-0930

Two destroyers of unknown type, possibly Asashio or Kagero closed
on NAUTILUS after Torpedo Attack No.1. Fifty four depth charges were delivered over nearly two hour attack. Enemy utilized passive and active sonar, taking turns making attacks. A thermal layer was detected at 270 feet, NAUTILUS leveled off at 275 ft, where wost depth charges exploded above NAUTILUS at est depth of 250 ft. After a close charge at 275, NAUTILUS wen to 300 ft. At 0900 one enemy destroyer was heard leaving area at high speed, while another began pinging and made two runs, then stopped to listen. At 0910, the DD was heard leaving area at high speed on estimated SSE course. Sound lost contact at 0930. While NAUTILUS suffered no damage, the task of destroyers was accomplished, permitting enemy CV force to escape.

Depth Charge Attack No.2
4 June 1942 1628-2230

This depth charge attack was prolonged, and accurate, causing damage to NAUTILUS (See MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE SECTION BELOW) and prevented NAUTILUS from finishing off the crippled CV SORYU.

Enemy destroyer, believed to be of KAGERO Class, detected NAUTILUS during approach on CV at roughly 5000 yards, utilizing active and passive sonar throughout attack. Multiple charges landed close throughout six hour ordeal. A second DD, which had been along side the CV assisting, joined in after the CV sunk (breaking up noises and explosions audible at 1909) and commenced a team tactic, with a degree of competence hope to not encounter again.

One DD was heard departing area at high speed around 2200 hours, while the other remained in area, dropped a pattern close to NAUTILUS at 320 feet, then went silent, likely listening, thus NAUTILUS lost contact at 2230 hours.

Upon surfacing, spotted DD laying to, most likely listening at 8000 yards. Choppy seas had kicked up and likely masked our noise as surfaced.

Evasion

Evasion was conducted by searching thermal layers, and hiding below them, frequent course changes as well. Speed bursts utilized when enemy vessels above to drop charges. Boat was rigged for silent running, with all non essential equipment shut down. RPM of all electric motors was kept at 80 for a speed of 2.5 knots, aside from the brief periods during speed "bursts".

MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

All defects or damage, unless otherwise noted, were repaired at sea.

Defects

Forward Batteries lost full capacity during second part of patrol, preventing battery capacity from rising about 80 percent for duration. Unsure if this was a equipment defect or damage from 4 June depth charge attack that went undetected during brief stopover at Midway prior to departure. Issue could not be remedied at sea and was repaired upon return to Pearl Harbor.

Main Clean Oil Fuel tank had a slow leak that was not detected until in Area 4A off Honshu during second portion of the patrol, when it was noticed fuel remaining was not close to normal estimates. A low leak, possibly material defect or possibly from undetected damage was found upon return to port and repaired.

Damage

Depth Charge Attack No.1

1. Piping leaks-All compartments

2. High Pressure Air Line leaks-All compartments

3. Shattered light bulbs and glass fixtures-All compartments

Depth Charge Attack No.2

1. Flooding-Forward Torpedo room due to
busted pipes, valves, and damaged forward hatch. Bilges flooded with one
foot of water in compartment.

2. Trim Pump- Temporarily non operational but repaired.

3. Hydraulic Pumps

4. Dive Planes Transmission-Bow

5. Dive Planes Transmission-Stern

6. No.2 Electric Motor

7. No.3 Electric Motor

8. No.4 Diesel Engine

9. No.1, No.2, No.3, No.4 torpedo tubes

10. Compressor

11. Stern Batteries

12.No.1 Periscope

13.No.2 Periscope

14. Radio set

15. Radio Antenna

16. Fore 6' 53 Caliber gun

17. Aft 6' 53 Caliber gun

18. Sonar Head Hoist

19. Minor hull damage forward conning tower frame and frame
for forward torpedo compartment. Repaired at Pearl Harbor.

20. Busted piping and valves in all compartments.

21. Busted high pressure air lines all compartments.

SOUND CONDITIONS AND SOUND GEAR

Sound conditions in Midway area were optimal. This likely contributed to the effectiveness of enemy sound gear against NAUTILUS.

Sound conditions in patrol areas 4A and 4B were mediocre.

THERMAL LAYERS

1942-06-04
29-31N 178-29W
270 feet

RADAR

SD radar typical detection range was 8 NM. On 4 July (Aircraft Contact No. 4) SD failed to detect aircraft entirely, ac spotted by lookouts. SD functional, reason for not detecting unknown.

RADIO

Radio function was normal, exception loss of optimal function noticed after damage in depth charge attack for duration of patrol.

PERSONNEL

Crew performance was excellent in the face of trying circumstances ranging from four faulty torpedoes, to two intense depth charge attacks, along with a extension of patrol with a long transit.

Two crew members achieved qualification during this patrol.

HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Overall conditions aboard were satisfactory through the patrol. Prolonged attack of 4 June left boat in a state of somewhat disarray but this was remedied quickly, even before a stopover at Midway, with repairs all damage that could be repaired underway completed by docking.

Meals were well prepared a highlight of our long days at sea.

In spite of the intense attack of 4 June, no serious injuries occurred among the crew.

MILES STEAMED-FUEL USED

Pearl to Midway Area
1500 miles 18555 gallons

In Midway Area
5500 miles 55566 gallons

Midway to Areas 4A 4B

2586 miles 30255 gallons

In Areas 4A 4B

5200 miles 49898 gallons

Area 4A 4B to Midway

2600 miles 31233 gallons

Midway to Pearl

1350 miles 23245 gallons

DURATION

Days

Pearl to Midway Area 7

Midway Area 10

Midway 1.5

Midway to Areas 10

In Areas 11

Areas to Midway 11

Midway to Pearl 3

FACTORS IN DURATION

Torpedoes 20

Fuel 42555 gallons

Provisions 33 days

Crew Indefinite

Reason for termination of patrol: Limited fuel battery capacity. Operational
order listed 1 July as date may return to port as well.

REMARKS

A challenging patrol conducted during a massive, intense, and decisive sea naval battle in addition to cruise to home waters of the Japanese Empire.

Four prematurely detonating torpedoes cost NAUTILUS the sinking of a light cruiser on 4 June.

While the Commanding Officer regrets not firing on the damaged carrier encountered later on 4 June from long range, the approach for a closer shot was to ensure positive identification of the damaged CV in addition to doubts about torpedo performance at such range.

W.H. Brockman Jr. , LCDR, USN.

Bubblehead1980

02-02-22, 09:59 PM

June 4 1942

https://i.postimg.cc/qzhBX9LW/Soryu1.png (https://postimg.cc/qzhBX9LW)

Afternoon of June 4th, discovered the Soryu dead in the water, fire burning (smoke plume visible) damaged by air attacks from SBD's earlier in the day.

https://i.postimg.cc/HjPsMpQQ/Soryu2.png (https://postimg.cc/HjPsMpQQ)
Afternoon of June 4th, discovered the Soryu dead in the water, fire burning (smoke plume visible) damaged by air attacks from SBD's earlier in the day.Second screen shot.

Attempted approach by one of two DD's standing by somehow detected NAUTILUS during approach (believe a unobserved aircraft may have spotted) at 5500 yards and prevented attack. The six hour depth charge attack damaged the NAUTILUS and prevented a attack

https://i.postimg.cc/m1hLnqGz/Soryu-Smoke1.png (https://postimg.cc/m1hLnqGz)

At 1909, the SORYU slid beneath the waters. Note: The was due to the fire causes damage mod by TheDrarkWraith. The ship burned all afternoon, a few explosions where heard while I was submerged. Seems fire finally caused the loss, pretty cool. Disappointed did not get to finish the carrier off with torpedoes though.

https://i.postimg.cc/WDj2VtvP/Soryu-Smoke2.png (https://postimg.cc/WDj2VtvP)

Smoke after SORYU sunk. Many survivor rafts in water.

https://i.postimg.cc/BLn48ybY/Soryu-Survivors1.png (https://postimg.cc/BLn48ybY)

Smoke/flames after SORYU sunk. Many survivor rafts in water.

https://i.postimg.cc/vg2M5z6Q/Soryu-Survivors2.png (https://postimg.cc/vg2M5z6Q)

Smoke/flames after SORYU sunk. Many survivor rafts in water.

https://i.postimg.cc/xJzgPjXc/Soryu-Fire1.png (https://postimg.cc/xJzgPjXc)

Bubblehead1980

02-04-22, 01:14 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH V 2.0
Donation Narwhal
100 difficult, cams, contacts on for testing new mission added to campaign.

War Patrol Report
USS Nautilus SS-168
FOURTH War Patrol
8 August-27 August 1942

PROLOGUE

Returned from FOURTH War Patrol on 14 July, 1942, docked at Submarine Base Pearl Harbor. Voyage and damage repairs began immediately
as NAUTILUS was prepared for a special assignment on upcoming patrol. Provisions and eight MK 14 torpedoes loaded 5-6 August. On 7 August,
ninety men of "B" Company, Second Marine Raider Battalion, along with their equipment were brought aboard. Ready for sea 8 August.

NARRATIVE

NAUTILUS, along with ARGONAUT formed Task Group 7.15 (TG 7.15) to conduct a special mission for this patrol. NAUTILUS and ARGONAUT together,
was assigned to transport, land, support, and extract the 121 men of the Marine Second Raider
Battalion on Butaritari Island, Makin Atoll, Gilbert Islands. NAUTILUS transported "B" Company of the Second Raiders, a total of 90 men,
along with their weapons and equipment.

In addition to successful completion of the special mission, four torpedo, and one gun attack-shore bombardment were conducted.
Three enemy vessels were sunk, two by torpedo, one by gunfire. Four valuable, large, and full fuel-oil storage tanks were destroyed by
gunfire.

8 August

0700 Departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. for Special Mission.

1001 Trim Dive

1020 Surface

9-14 August

En route Makin Atoll, Gilbert Islands on course 235 11.5 knots. Daily routine of dives, maintenance,
and drills conducted, with exception of 14 August, when the Marines were permitted on deck to conduct
exercises in the morning and after dark.

15 August

1930 Marines on deck, conducted launch exercise.

16 August

0600 15 NM SE of Butaritari Island, Maki Atoll, Gilbert Islands.

0643 Submerged just before dawn to conduct reconnoiter of Butaritari Island.

1500 Observed enemy facilities ashore, including large fuel storage tanks. Two small PC
type vessels in lagoon. Numerous installations. No heavy shore defenses observed.

2000 Preparations for landing operations began.

2036 Surface

17 August

0320 Flooded to decks awash for boat deployment.

0326 B Company departed in boats. 3-1N 172-55E 6 NM South of Butaritari Islands

0400 Received orders to conduct bombardment of Ukiangong Point
at 0700 hours in support of Raiders.

0623 Submerged 5 NM off Ukiangong Point for approach before dawn.

0645 GENERAL QUARTERS-BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION for shore bombardment.

0657 Surface

0700 Commenced firing

0705 Destroyed Large Fuel tank on Butaritari Island

0709 Destroyed Large Fuel tank on Butaritari Island

0715 Destroyed Large Fuel tank on Butaritari Island

0725 Damaged Bunker/Observation post Ukiangong Point, Butaritari Island

0730 Destroyed Large Fuel tank on Butaritari Island

0740 Sunk Tug Boat (1000 tons) in Lagoon by gunfire 3-04N 172-47E.

0743 Fired on small boat underway in lagoon, out of range.

0745 Ceased fire. Multiple fires of fuel tanks and sunken tug burning strong,
visible for miles.

0746 Submerged

0750 Secured General Quarters

1137 Aircraft spotted bearing 264 9000 yards (Aircraft Contact No.1) MAVIS.
Ordered 150 ft.

1227 Periscope depth. Spotted MAVIS (Aircraft Contact No.2) Dropped bombs
depth charges in water, about 500 yards off bow. Ordered 150 ft.

1303 Periscope depth. All clear.

1330 Aircraft (Aircraft Contact No.3) arrived on scene. MAVIS/EMILY

1334 Bombed by MAVIS flying boat, close astern. Minor damage (See Damage Section)

1335 More explosions, above, not close.

1430 Periscope depth. Heavy enemy air activity in area.
Large four engine flying boat landed in lagoon. (Aircraft Contact No.4).
Ordered 100 ft.

1548 Periscope depth. Aircraft bearing 158 (Aircraft Contact No.5)
Ordered 90 ft

2040 Surface.

2330 Unable to locate boats at rendezvous.

18 August

0030 Received message from ARGONAUT, stating recovered seven boats.

0045 Received message from LT COL Carlson stating seventy two men ashore unable to break through
rough tides, will make further attempts in the morning.

0635 Submerged six miles South of Ukiangong Point.

0851 (Aircraft Contact No.6) Spotted EMILY flying boat 185 8000 yards.

0930 Spotted boats.

0937 Surfaced

0945 Submerged, emergency. Multiple aircraft closing on SD radar
(Aircraft Contact No. 7) at 8 and 6 miles.

1000 Unable to conduct extraction due to heavy enemy air presence.

1044 Received radio message, will go for
extraction after sundown.

1257 ( Aircraft Contact No. 8) bearing 110. (3 Zeros)

1522 Sound reported faint props to sea, bearing 273.

1543 Course 278 to investigate sound contact. Props noises indicated ship closing.

1559 Smoke sighted bearing 358.

1606 Masts and smoke spotted, inbound ship. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO.

1618 Large AK with MS type escort. Course 095 10 knots.

1636 Target Course 060 Speed 9 knots. Position forcing stern shot.

1638 Target Identified as AK DAITOKU MARU 7590 tons.

1640 Tubes No. 5 and No.6 made ready.

1641 Target zigged towards NAUTILUS.

1642 Pinging

1643 (Torpedo Attack No.1) Fired tubes 5,6, at freighter "Down the throat"

1643:15 Premature detonation

1644 Escort closing. Ordered 200 ft, rigged for depth charge, rigged for silent running.

1646 Splashes. Escort above.

1646:31 DC explosions

1647 Several Close DC explosions. Damage reported (See Defects and Damage Section)

1652 Three close DC explosions, above.

1657 DC explosions. Damage reported. See Defects and Damage Section.

1701 Close DC explosion astern.

1705 Escort above. Splashes.

1830 Enemy appears to have lost contact with NAUTILUS at 375 ft depth.

1831 Tracking AK

1900 Lost contact with AK

1935 Lost contact with Escort, possibly "sleeping"

1940 Batteries reported at fifty percent power.

2048 Secured General Quarters

2321 Periscope Depth.

2330 Surface.

2335 Message from LTCOL Carlson via ARGONAUT. Extraction at entrance to lagoon
2345.

19 August

0000 Searched designated extraction area off lagoon entrance.

0037 Spotted enemy MS type escort bearing 337 6000 yards estimated.

0122 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO.

0130 Torpedo Attack No.2 Fired Tubes 1-4

0131 Two premature detonations

0135 Torpedoes missed

0136 Evading escort on surface, searching for NAUTILUS

0230 Sighted boat, escort 2000 yards off, does not appear spotted boat
or NAUTILUS. Escort appears to be laying to, listening.

0245 Torpedo Attack No.3 Fired tubes 1-3.

0247 Torpedo impact! Large explosion.

0316 Shimushu Class Minesweeper-Escort Vessel 860 tons sunk.
3-04N 172-41E

0325 Recovered boat 1

0605 Recovered boat 2

0610 Recovered Boat 3.

0615 All boats recovered for seventy two men total.

0620 Received message from ARGONAUT, all men recovered, mission accomplished.
Departing area.

0621 Set course 315 flank speed to depart area en route Pearl Harbor.

0700 Overcast, light fog, wind, choppy seas.

0820 DD AK spotted bearing 355 9000 yards

0821 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO

0852 Tubes 1-4 readied.

0854 (Torpedo Attack No.4) Fired tubes 1-4.

0855:20 Torpedo wake observed running below target. Detonated about 15 yards on opposite side of target

0855:25 Torpedo impact!

0855:30 Torpedo impact!

0855:36 Torpedo impact, failed to detonate-DUD.

0856 Rear DD spotted closing at high speed 3000 yards.
Order 300 ft, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0901 Multiple large explosions, sounds of ship breaking up.

0902 Pinging. DD above. Splashes

0903 DD explosions astern.

0904 Pinging, second (lead) DD believed on scene.

0905 More breaking up noises.
JOKUJA MARU 7390 tons sunk
3-34N 172-34E

0908 DD above. Many splashes.

0909 Many DC explosions, none close. Above, astern.

0915 DD above. Splashes.

0949 Series of close DC explosions.

0950 Damage reported (See damage section Flooding in engine rooms.

0951 Damage Control party assigned.

0956 DC party reports leaks stopped in engine room. Bilges filled
with four inches of water in compartment. Flooding under
control, pumping water to restore proper control.

1000 DC part reports No.3 electric motor disabled. Stern batteries
damaged.

1018 Sound reports one DD leaving area at high speed, other is about 3000
yards, hunting.
Distant pings audible through out. NAUTILUS at 322 ft depth,
pumping water.

1100 Lost contact with DD.

1130 Secured General Quarters.

2000 Periscope depth

2018 Surface

20 August

0753 Dive! (Aircraft Contact No. 8) SD contact 6 NM closing, fast.

1900 Surface

21-26 August

En route Pearl Harbor

27 August

1105 Docked Submarine Base Pearl Harbor. Terminated War Patrol

CONTACTS

Aircraft Contacts

No.

1.1942/08/17 1137 (local)
H6K MAVIS 3-2N 172-52E
Crs. 270 Alt 1000

2.1942/08/17 1237 (local)
H6K MAVIS/H8K EMILY
3-2N 172-52E

3.1942/08/17 1337 (local)
H6K MAVIS 3-2N 172-52E
Landed in Makin lagoon.

4.1942/08/17 1548 (local)
H6K MAVIS 3-2N 172-46E

5.1942/08/18 0851 (local)
H6K MAVIS 3-1N 172-54E
Crs. 200 Alt 500

6.1942/08/18 0851 (local)
SD only 3-2N 172-54E
Rng. 7 NM Closing

7.1942/08/18 0851 (local)
Two SD contacts 8 and 6 NM
3-1N 172-54E

8.1942/08/18 1257 (local)
3 Zeros 3-6N 172-38E
Crs 100 Alt 4000 Spd 200 knots

9.1942/08/20 0753 (local)
SD Contact 6 NM closing.
7-0N 178-0E

Ship Contacts

No.

1. 1942/08/18 1606(local)
2-59N 172-34E
AK, MS
Crs. 060 Spd. 9 knots
Torpedo Attack No.1

2.1942/08/18 0037 (local)
3-04N 172-41E
MS/Escort
Torpedo Attack No. 2 and No.3

3. 1942/08/19 0820 (local)
3-24N 172-33E
DD(2), AK (4)
Crs. 172
Spd 13 knots
Torpedo Attack No.4

ATTACK DATA

ACTION NARRATIVE

Four torpedo attacks resulting in a 7390 ton AK and 860 ton MS-Escort sunk.
Repeated torpedo failures again cost NAUTILUS a large, important merchantman and led to depth charge attack.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

DATE 1942/08/19
TIME 1643
LAT 3-0N
LONG 172-34E

TYPE OF ATTACK

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME DAITOKU MARU
CLASS KOBYASHI MARU
TYPE AK
COURSE 055
SPEED 6 KTS
BEARING 180
TRUE BEARING 220
RANGE 1100
AOB 0
REMARK
"Down the Throat ****" to try and hit
target after zig just before firing point.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO. 5
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24150
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1809
GYRO 0
COURSE 258
TRACK 0
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0 degrees
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 3.5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely Detonated

TUBE NO. 6
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24153
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1812
GYRO 0
COURSE 258
TRACK 0
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0 degrees
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 3.5feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [] No [X]
REMARK
Torpedo fired on perfect track for "down the throat"
shot after target zigged towards NAUTILUS at firing point. Sound
heard torpedo merged with target. Believe torpedo ran deeper than set, but
did not observed as was descending to avoid on rushing escort vessel.

OWN SHIP DATA (AT FIRING)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 020
SPEED 3 knots
ANGLE 1.5 degrees down
SEA STATE Calm, light chop.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

DATE 1942/08/19
TIME 0130
LAT 3-04N
LONG 172-41E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Surface-Night

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (AT FIRING)

NAME NA
CLASS Shimushu
TYPE Minsweeeper-Escort Vessel
COURSE 180
SPEED 6 knots
BEARING 0
TRUE BEARING 091
RANGE 3500 yards
AOB 90 P
REMARK

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24151
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1809
GYRO 0
COURSE 258
TRACK 107
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely Detonated

TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24170
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1815
GYRO 0
COURSE 050
TRACK 100 P
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Miss, unknown reason.

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24151
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1809
GYRO 0
COURSE 258
TRACK 107
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely Detonated

TUBE NO. 4
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24179
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1821
GYRO 0
COURSE 050
TRACK 100 P
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Miss, unknown reason.

OWN SHIP DATA (AT FIRING)

DEPTH Surfaced
COURSE 065
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 0 down
SEA STATE Choppy

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3

DATE 1942/08/19
TIME 0245
LAT 3-04N
LONG 172-41E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Surface-Night

Ships Sunk
Shimushu Class Minesweeper-Escort Vessel
860 tons 3-04N 172-41E
0316 (local)

Verification:

Observed torpedo hit, followed by massive explosion and numerous
secondary explosions. Visually observed vessel sink at 0316 hours.

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (AT FIRING)

NAME N/A
CLASS Shimushu
TYPE Minesweeper-Escort Vessel
COURSE 125
SPEED 0
BEARING 0
TRUE BEARING 359
RANGE 3200 yards
AOB 88 S
REMARK
Vessel was stationary, likely listening, believing NAUTILUS had submerged.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24167
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1411
GYRO 0
COURSE 000
TRACK 89 S
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 3.5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [] No [X]
REMARK
Missed, cause unknown.

TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 2419
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1416
GYRO 0
COURSE 000
TRACK 89 S
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 3.5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit, target sunk.

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24196
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1417
GYRO 0
COURSE 000
TRACK 89 S
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 SECS
DEPTH 3.5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No []
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [] No [X]
REMARK
Missed, cause unknown.

OWN SHIP DATA (AT FIRING)

DEPTH Surfaced
COURSE 030
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 0 down
SEA STATE choppy

----------------------------------------------------------------

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4

DATE 1942/08/19
TIME 0854
LAT 3-25N
LONG 172-34E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Submerged-Periscope-Day

Ships Sunk

AK JOKUJA MARU 7390 tons
3-24N 172-34E
0905 (local)

Verification:

Observed two torpedoes hit target, explosions and fire. Explosions and
sounds of ship breaking up, sinking audible through hull and on sound gear.

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (AT FIRING)

NAME JOKUJA MARU
CLASS AK
TYPE N/A
COURSE 205
SPEED 9 KTS
BEARING 348
TRUE BEARING 111
RANGE 1414 yards
AOB 86 S
REMARK
Trucks lashed to deck. Large shipping crates visible. 3 or 4 inch guns fore and aft.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (AT FIRING)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24180
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1500
GYRO 0
COURSE 122
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs.
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Ran deeper than set. Detonated on other side of target, about fifty yards

TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24181
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1501
GYRO 0
COURSE 122
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs.
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit under stack, large explosion.

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24182
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1502
GYRO 0
COURSE 122
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 1.5 degrees-starboard
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs.
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit just forward of amidships, behind forward mast.

TUBE NO. 4
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 24183
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1503
GYRO 0
COURSE 122
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 1.5 degrees-port
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs.
DEPTH 5 feet
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No []
REMARK
Dud. Observed impact under aft mast, torpedo failed to detonate.

OWN SHIP DATA (AT FIRING)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 122
SPEED 3 knots
ANGLE 2 down
SEA STATE
Choppy

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
USS Nautilus SS-168
FOURTH War Patrol
GUN ACTION NO.1

DATE 1942/08/17
TIME 0700-0745
LAT 3-02N
LONG 172-48E
5000-8000 yards South of Butaritari Island, Makin Atoll

ACTION NARRATIVE

In support of the Marine Second Raider Battallion, which landed on Butaritari Island around 0500,
NATUILUS was ordered to conduct a bombardment of the Ukiangong Point area as a distraction at 0700.
Having reconnoitered the island and reasonably sure that not heavy anti ship type batteries were present,
NAUTILUS surfaced 8000 yards off Ukiangong Point and commencing firing at 0700. Most visible facilities were
large fuel storage tanks. A total of four were targeted and all destroyed by six inch gun fire. Tanks were full
as large explosions result with fires that burned, some for forty eight hours. A 1000 ton PC type tug boat moored in the lagoon
was sunk by six inch gunfire as well. After a forty five minute bombardment, cease fire was ordered.
The area in which bombardment was conducted from was repeatedly patrolled by aircraft throughout the day.

ROUNDS EXPENDED

6" 53 Caliber- 101

.50 Caliber MG- 0

HITS-

6' 53 Caliber- 61

.50 Caliber MG - 0

TARGET DATA (at firing)

Target No.1

Large Fuel-Oil Storage Tank
Destroyed by gunfire

TARGET No. 2

Large Fuel-Oil Storage Tank
Destroyed by gunfire

TARGET No. 3

Large Fuel-Oil Storage Tank
Destroyed by gunfire

TARGET No. 4

Large Fuel-Oil Storage Tank
Destroyed by gunfire

TARGET No. 5

NAME NA
CLASS Tugboat
TYPE Tug/PC
TONS 1000
COURSE NA
SPEED 0
BEARING 045
RANGE 5500 yards
REMARK
Moored in lagoon. 3 inch guns observed fore and aft. Did not fire on NAUTILUS.

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

Own Ship Data (in relation to target at firing)

COURSE 055
SPEED 5-15 knots
AOB 120-60 P

SPECIAL MISSION

In according with operational orders, NAUTILUS transported the 90 men of "B" Company, Second Raider Battalion
to the Makin Island area and successfully deployed the men of "B" Company via their LCRL boats at 0326 hours 17 August.

The surf kicked up with strong tides just after the boats were deployed and around 0500 received reports
of difficulties from the CO, LTCOL Carlson via radio.

Per orders received, conducted a bombardment of Ukiangong Point, beginning precisely at 0700 17 August and ended at 0745. Four large fuel tanks were
destroyed in addition to other facilities, as well as 1000 ton tugboat/CP type sunk in the lagoon.

Enemy response came in form of heavy air cover. NAUTILUS suffered minor damage from bombs dropped by one of this planes.

Difficulties with boats and heavy surface prevented pick up of 72 of the Marines as scheduled on evening of 17 August. Heavy air cover
prevented full extraction during daylight hours of 18 August. A prolonged depth charge attack followed by unexpected engagement with escort vessel
preventing the pick up of nearby LCRL boats, led to final man not being extracted from his boat until 0600 on 19 August.

Special Mission completed as ordered.

NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

Butartari Island and Ukiangong Point served as excellent navigational aides when in the Makin Atoll
area. Otherwise, no aides were encountered.

TIDAL INFORMATION

Tidal activity was normal for the area, but proved a obstacle at times when deploying and recovering
the LCRL boats utilized by the Raiders.

ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEAURES AND EVASION

ASW tactics encountered by enemy escorts and destroyers were about the norm for the Japanese.
Depth charges, while causing damage, often seem to be set too shallow.

Aircraft dispatched to hunt for submarines after the morning bombard on 17 August proved a difficult
foe to counter.

Evasion tactics were standard. Consistent course, speed, and depth, changes, combined with utilization of thermal
layers and silent running. Motors were kept below 100 RPM.

MAJOR DAMAGE AND DEFECTS

Defects

None

Damage

Moderate damage was caused in the depth charge attacks. All damage was repaired at sea, unless otherwise
noted

1. No.3 Electric Motor-Disabled, knocked off mounting. Unable to repair at sea.

2. Busted sea valves and piping in engine rooms, led to flooding of bilges and nine inches of water
in compartment.

3. Stern Batteries

4. Hydraulic Pumps

5. Trim Pump

6. Stern Dive Planes Transmission

7. Bow Dive Planes Transmission

8. Piping leaks-All compartments

9. High Pressure Air line leaks-All compartments

10. Electrical grounds in Engine room, conning tower, control room.

11. Light bulbs and glass fixtures in all compartments.

12. No.5 and No.6 torpedo tubes

SOUND CONDITIONS AND SOUND GEAR

Sound Conditions were decent in most of the area.

Sound gear performance was optimal.

THERMAL LAYERS

1942/08/18
2-59 N 172-34E
220 feet

MINES

No mines were encountered on this patrol.

RADAR

SD Radar function was excellent on this patrol. Typical detection range was 8-9 NM.

RADIO

Radio function, key to success on this mission, did not disappoint, as performance was
excellent.

PERSONNEL

Crew performance was excellent on this special mission. Accommodations to make room for
90 Marine Raiders caused for conditions more cramped than usual, but the crew made do
and were excellent hosts/

Three men advanced in rating on this patrol and three others achieved qualification.

HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Health of the crew is excellent. The boat was more crowded than usual, but a level of comfort was maintained
with morale remaining satisfactory. The success of sinking ships, bombarding enemy territory, as well as
successful completion of special assignment certainly helped in the morale department.

MILES STEAMED-FUEL USED

Pearl to Makin
2227 miles
40550 gallons

In Area
1000 miles
15455 gallons

Makin to Pearl
2250 miles
51255 gallons

DURATION

Pearl to Makin
8

In Area
3

Makin to Pearl
8

FACTORS IN ENDURANCE

TORPEDOES 2
FUEL 51255 gallons
Provisions 25 days
Crew Indefinite

Reason for termination of patrol: Per operation orders, return to Pearl Harbor upon completion
of special assignment, unless otherwise ordered.

REMARKS

A busy, challenging, special patrol. Submarines, especially those of the design of NAUTILUS prove excellent
vessels for operations such as the one conducted on this patrol. Performance of the crew as well as the
men of the Second Raider Battallion was excellent.

With great pride, the first sinking by NAUTILUS under my command occurred on this patrol, albeit it after repeated
torpedo failures. Naturally, a full load of torpedoes was not carried on this patrol due to the space requirements
for passengers and equipment, which means each torpedo had to counter, more than normal. The number one problem
with torpedoes appears to be depth control issues, followed by the prematurely detonations. While a large
merchantman and minesweeper escort were sunk by torpedo, a large, important merchantman escaped due to
faulty torpedoes.

W.H. Brockman Jr.,
LCDR, USN.

Bubblehead1980

02-04-22, 02:23 PM

Variety of screenshots from Fourth patrol, which was a special operation deploying and extracting Marine Raiders at Makin Island in August 1942.

https://i.postimg.cc/289VZsjr/0700-Aug17bombard1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bombarding Butaritari Island morning of August 17. Destroyed fuel storage tanks and a tug boat moored in lagoon. Ranges 4500-8000 yards.

https://i.postimg.cc/yxQY0RHv/0700-Aug17bombard2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bombarding Butaritari Island morning of August 17. Destroyed fuel storage tanks and a tug boat moored in lagoon. Ranges 4500-8000 yards.

https://i.postimg.cc/63hQ5S1s/0700-Aug17bombard3doubleshot.png (https://postimages.org/)

Simultaneous firing of 6 inch 53 caliber deck guns (AI crew) Broadside packs quite the power.

https://i.postimg.cc/FszKNTyq/big-DCspalsh.png (https://postimages.org/)

Big depth charge splash. One of my favorite mods.

https://i.postimg.cc/sfw2kkh7/bombedbyplane1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bombed/Depth charges by aircraft that snuck up on me while at periscope depth off Makin. Caused in aft torpedo room.

https://i.postimg.cc/XYy7yXDk/Close-DCstern.png (https://postimages.org/)

Close DC astern, luckily dropped a good 15-20 feet before exploding. I was at 275 ft.

https://i.postimg.cc/NfnjMRb0/DCexp1.png (https://postimages.org/)

DC explosion

https://i.postimg.cc/cJwHP6RL/fueltankburning1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/KYPGJwbK/insidesteam.png (https://postimages.org/)

Burning fuel tank

https://i.postimg.cc/JnK1WXGM/jokujamaru.png (https://postimages.org/)

Sunk on 19 August 1942 North of Makin Atoll when Nautilus encountered a southbound convoy of four AK and two DD.
Two torpedoes malfunctioned (Torpedo 1 ran deep and them exploded on other side at about 50 yards. Torpedo 2 was a dud.
Two other torpedoes worked , causing serious damage. Ship sunk in about ten minutes.

https://i.postimg.cc/fW2w2YGv/Makinbombardorder1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Orders to bombard Makin at 0700 received via radio

https://i.postimg.cc/FzBNYQy6/Makinobjectivecompleted1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Deployment of Raiders completed. (deployed further from shore than the stars are placed, will move them back in final release)

https://i.postimg.cc/ZqtYPZGt/Mavis1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Mavis hunting for Nautilus following bombardment.

https://i.postimg.cc/V6zYTgsK/mushroomfueltankexp.png (https://postimages.org/)

Direct hit on fuel tank gave a mushroom cloud. With EAX sound sim mod, explosion was loud and "rolled" like thunder

https://i.postimg.cc/658BDywx/Nautilusdepartport1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Nautilus at Pearl Harbor Submarine Base, preparing to depart for fourth patrol.

https://i.postimg.cc/J0nR7hkJ/Nautilus-Firstdive1.png (https://postimages.org/)
Nautilus trim dive.

https://i.postimg.cc/NfZQYBf9/Nautilus-Firstdive2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Nautilus trim dive.

https://i.postimg.cc/JzJMzvGT/Nautilussunset1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/zfr5b7hq/Nautilussurface1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Surfacing

https://i.postimg.cc/D0H32PFk/Nautilusunder1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Below the waves

https://i.postimg.cc/3rcTCYGS/Nautilusunder2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/85yVYV0C/Peteviewof-DCsplash.png (https://postimages.org/)

A PETE arrived on scene to assist in the hunt for Nautilus following the attempt to sink DAITOKU MARU as it approached Makin on afternoon of August 18. Only a last minute zig towards Nautilus and faulty torpedoes saved her. Escorting minesweeper gave a solid depth charging.

https://i.postimg.cc/L6gMxwBH/planebombed2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/g2vbWhTQ/sinkingmerchant1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/gjnPFBCH/Tankburn2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/mgxWJj87/torpeod1dthroat.png (https://postimages.org/)

Fired two torpedoes "down the throat" when ideal set up was ruined by a last minute zig at firing point. One torpedo prematurely exploded just a few yards from target. This torpedo ran deeper than set, otherwise would've been a hit.Escort kept Nautilus pinned down while vessel escaped, arriving at Makin Lagoon around dusk on August 18.

https://i.postimg.cc/bvpcNJXJ/Tugsunk1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Tug sunk by gunfire in lagoon at Makin Island August 17

https://i.postimg.cc/85z2M0zg/twoDC.png (https://postimages.org/)

two depth charges

https://i.postimg.cc/cJhqKSZc/verycose-DC.png (https://postimages.org/)

Close depth charge

Bubblehead1980

02-06-22, 08:24 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH V2.0 (not yet released)
100 difficulty
Cams off, contacts on.

War Patrol Report
USS Nautilus SS-168
Fifth War Patrol
15 September- 9 November 1942

PROLOGUE

Returned to Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. on 27 August 1942. After disembarking
men of the Second Raider Battalion, normal leave and refit began. On 5 September, a SJ Surface Search
Radar was installed. RM1c N.B. Cox, USN, RM2c D.H. Rosencrans, RM2c W.E. Cox attended appropriate, albeit
brief training school on operation and maintenance of this new system. RdM2c B.L. Schmidt, a experienced
and rated radar operator was assigned from the Fleet Radar Training School for this patrol,
to assist NAUTILUS's crew. Underway training and testing was conducted on 11 and 12 September, with arming and
provisioning taking place 13-14 September. Twenty MK 14 torpedoes were loaded on 14 September. Ready for sea 15 September.

NARRATIVE

For her FIFTH War Patrol, NAUTILUS was assigned to a patrol area covering the Southern Kuril Islands and Eastern Hokkaido
from 45N-149E to 43-N 145-0E by 300 NM. No traffic was encountered in open ocean within the boundaries of assigned area.

September 15, 1942

Departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 0915 for assigned patrol area in Southern Kuril Islands and
South-Eastern Hokkaido. Exited harbor at 0950 and set course 255 for Midway, en route patrol area.
(Aircraft Contact No.1) At 1054 sighted PBY bearing 353 8700 yards.
SD was not active at this time. Exchanged recognition signals successfully.
Conducted trim dive at 1300 and surfaced at 1330 on previous course until 1830, when came to course 285 at
14 knots en route Midway Island.

September 16, 1942

En route Midway. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 17, 1942

En route Midway. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 18, 1942

En route Midway. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 19, 1942

Docked Midway from 1100-1700. Topped off fuel tanks and provisions. Departed at 1700 for assigned patrol area off Eastern Hokkaido and Southern Kuril Islands.

September 20, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 21, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 22, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 23, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 24, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 24, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 25, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 26, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 27, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 28, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 29, 1942

Now within range of enemy aircraft, submerged at dawn-0930. En route patrol area.Surfaced at 2036.

September 30, 1942

Now within range of enemy aircraft, submerged at 1009. En route patrol area.Surfaced at 2108.

October 1, 1942

Submerged at 0900. Surfaced at 2200 into heavy seas, overcast, and precipitation. Winds at 25 knots,
direction 171.

October 2, 1942

Storms persisted. DR position indicates are in assigned area.At 1936 SJ contact was made bearing 308 18,228 yards.
Estimated position 44-5N 137-31E. Heavy storms prevented immediate attack, began track via radar, awaiting
storm to subside. Estimated course of contact is 040 8-10 knots. A second, and third SJ contact was made at 1941.
By 2122, NAUTILUS was 6 NM ahead of the convoy, waiting for storms to subside for attack.

Briefly lost SJ contact from 2200, regained contact at 2221. Convoy changed course to 330 degrees.
Shadowed, awaiting storms to clear for attack.

October 3, 1942

Continued tracking targets after midnight on via SJ, no visual contact due to weather.
At 0352 SJ detected multiple stationary objects ahead, believe land. At 0410 through the fog and rain,
spotted coastal lighting. Avoiding risk of running aground, reversed course. DR position indicated possibly
located Hittokappu Bay, likely destination of the convoy. Lost SJ contacts at 0522, likely as entered the bay.

With daylight approaching and storms raging, increased speed to open range.

SJ radar made a new contact at 1158 bearing 231 20,253 yards.
Ordered intercept course 330. Storms still raging, heavy seas made forward progress difficult.
At 1309, heavy fog suddenly dissipated, revealing a large AK 7000 yards astern. Ordered a dive at 1310 for attack.

GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO was called at 1313 at NAUTILUS reached 75 ft. A turn to starboard at full speed was
made to conduct a "u turn" and bring bow tubes to bear. At 1320, the turn was completed, ordered periscope
depth. Upon observation, found skies had cleared, precipitations ceased, and seas calmed to light chop.
Observed a mid sized AK on course 065, plotted at 10 knots. Tubes 1,2,3,4 were ordered readied at 1325.

(Torpedo Attack No.1) At 1333 fired tubes 1,2,3, at target. All three torpedoes hit
as aimed. About one minute after final torpedo impact, a series of explosions ripped the vessel apart.
Observed the vessel split into a "V" at the keel amidships, two sections sinking separately.
No survivors observed. Ordered 150 ft, course 180 4 knts, and secured from GQ.
At 150 ft, torpedoes ordered reloaded.

AK ANZAN MARU 3936 tons sunk
44-51N 148-34E
3 October 1942 1339 (local)

Upon torpedo reload being completed, returned to periscope depth to observe a oddly
clear and beautiful blue sky, light clouds, calm seas, as opposed to first forty eight hours in the area.
Daytime temperature was 24 degrees F. Course 220 was set for the South-Western portion of area off
Eastern Hokkaido. Surfaced at 2230 into a cold, clear sky, and calm seas.

October 4, 1942

Submerged at 1030 for patrol en route to coast of Eastern Hokkaido. Uneventful, surfaced at 2231.

October 5, 1942

Submerged 9,500 yards South-East of Cape Shirepa, Hokkaido, 10,000 yards South-West of
Daikokujima Island, Hokkaido at before dawn , for patrol off Akkeshi Bay.
Surfaced at 2230.

October 6, 1942

Submerged at 1035 for patrol in the approaches to Akkeshi Bay.Surfaced at 2218.

October 7, 1942

Submerged for patrol at dawn.At 1543, OOD on No.2 periscope spotted a four engine patrol
aircraft (Aircraft Contact No.2) bearing 248 estimated range 9000 yards. Ordered 150 ft out of
precaution. Does not appear NAUTILUS was spotted.

Surfaced at 2134 into foul weather. Heavy seas, winds, precipitations, and fog.

October 8, 1942

Storms persisted through the day, cruised on surface 80-100 NM South of Akkeshi Bay.

October 9, 1942

Storms persisted through the day, cruised on surface 80-100 NM South of Akkeshi Bay.

October 10, 1942

Storms persisted through the day. Uneventful otherwise.

October 11, 1942

Storms cleared at 1230. Maintained surfaced patrol with SJ as seas remained heavy.

October 12, 1942

Maintained surfaced patrol in low visibility, rain. Skies somewhat cleared at 1500.At 1550,
spotted fishing boat bearing 006 range six miles. Submerged at 1553 to investigate
contact at closer range. GENERAL QUARTERS-BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION called at 1700.
Surfaced at 1716, blew tanks for fast surface. Commenced firing (Gun Action No.1) at 1717.
Ceased fire at 1719, fishing boat burning. Secured from Battle Surface. Fishing boat sunk at 1721.
No survivors spotted.

October 13, 1942

Submerged six nautical miles South-East of Cape Nosappu, Hokkaido before dawn (0944 local)
for patrol in the area. Spotted a fishing boat anchored in cove, bearing 001 11,000 yards at 1134.
Surfaced at 2208.

October 14, 1942

Seas came to a flat, icy calm in pre dawn hours, as NAUTILUS was twenty miles South-West of Etorofu Island,
preparing for submerge for the day. Enjoyed a beautiful arctic sunrise, then submerged at 1035 for patrol
to interdict any shipping pass between Kunashiri and Etorofu Islands. Surfaced at 2230, turned course
050 to patrol North Coast of Etorofu Island.

October 15, 1942

Submerged for patrol North of Etorofu Island at 1130.Surfaced at 2230.

October 16, 1942

Submerged at 1030 for patrol. Surfaced at 2200 South of Etorofu Island.

October 17, 1942

Submerged at 1030 for patrol. At 1045, sound reported several prop noises in distance bearing 070.
Due to distance, after SJ sweep made no contact, surfaced to investigate. Initial SJ contact at bearing 001
turned out to be a large iceberg. Disappointed, began to turn South, when lookout S1c L.B. Davis spotted in the distance,
a smoke plume in spite of the moderate fog and haze in area. Full Speed was ordered and at 1306
SJ made contact bearing 335 19460 yards.Ordered flank speed to close, turned to course 068
to shadow convoy at ten miles, pull ahead for submerged attack.

Called GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO at 1430 and Submerged for attack at 1435. Repeated observations
revealed one mid sized AK escorted by a DD of the Minekaze Class on course 075 est speed 10 knots. DD
began to zig along its base case, possibly suspecting presence of submarine. Backed down to open range
from projected track. The AK kept on steady course so not was clear was not alerted, just suspicious, or
conducting routine escort operations.

AK identified as RYUSEI MARU 6538 tons. All tubes made ready to fire at 1537. Fired (Torpedo Attack No.2)
Tubes 1,2,3, at 1441. Torpedo No.3 immediately jogged to starboard at wide angle, apparently suffering gyro
malfunction. Fired Tube No.4 at 1551:45. Torpedoes 1 and 2 impacted target. Target damaged, slowed, causing torpedo
No.4 to miss just ahead of the bow. The DD obviously spotted the origin of the wakes, turned towards
NAUTILUS. A depth of 250 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge was ordered. Thermal layer detected
at 107 ft.

Pinging began at 1546 as DD closed in fast.DD roared overhead at 1547, multiple splashes heard in water.
NAUTILUS leveled at 250 ft as multiple DC explosions shook the boat. Multiple DC explosions aster, distant.
Pinging began again at 1552. DD above at 1553, dropped multiple DC, splashes audible. Multiple DC explosions, boat shaken
damage reported (See Major Defects and Damage Section)

Depth charge exploded clsoe to conning tower at 1612 causing damage. Damage in multiple compartments reported. Minor flooding in conning tower due to busted piping, quickly stopped.

Sound reports noises of ship breaking up at last known bearing of RYUSEI MARU. Sounds grew
louder and audible through hull as well. Believe vessel sunk at 1625.

By 1820, it appeared enemy had lost contact with NAUTILUS as had been nearly one and half hours since last
depth charge, or ping, and sound reported DD astern, estimated 3000-4000 yards. Secured GQ,
maintained silent running at 350 ft depth, course 190, 3 knots. Sound lost contact with enemy DD at 1936 hours.

Periscope and SJ sweeps all clear at 2230, surfaced into cool night with calm seas.
Damage Control Party assigned to conduct repairs. Torpedoes ordered reloaded.

October 18, 1942

Set course at 0000 to patrol South of Akkeshi Bay, Hokkaido to clear area of last attack for a few days.
Submerged at dawn for patrol, surfaced at 2200.

October 19, 1942

Weather begin to once again deteriorate around 0430 with Overcast, medium precipitations,
heavy fog, and 10-12 ft seas with winds at 12-15 knots, direction 061. A sharp drop in temperature was also noted.

October 20, 1942

Foul weather conditions carried over from 19 October and remained same throughout the day.

October 21, 1942

Skies cleared around 0500, but moderate precipitations and choppy seas remained until
1300, when seas calmed and skies cleared for a pristine, but cold afternoon.

October 22, 1942

Submerged at 1100 for patrol twenty miles south of entrance to Akkeshi Bay.
As preparing to surface, observed two fishing boats bearing 021 10,000 yards.
At 2126 called GENERAL QUARTERS-BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION.

Blew tanks for rapid surface at 2140. Commenced firing at 2141 (Gun Action No.2)
Forward 6' 53 Caliber gun found to be inoperable, surely damaged in depth charge attack of
17 October.

Fishing boat (Target No.1) sunk by gunfire at 2144. Second fishing boat (Target No.2)
turned away at best speed, turned NAUTILUS for pursuit course. As closed range,
fishing boat suddenly opened fire with machine guns, several rounds striking NAUTILUS. At least
one round went over the commanding officer and bridge crew's head, striking.
lower portion of periscope shears, but a well timed duck by all prevented disaster.

Fishing Boat (Target No.2) was quickly dispatched by two hits from aft deck gun.
2152 ceased fire and secured from Battle Surface.

October 23, 1942

Submerged before dawn eleven miles ESE of Daikokujima Island for patrol.
Surfaced at 2230.

October 24, 1942

Submerge before dawn six miles SE of Cape Nosappu for patrol.
While at radar depth for SJ sweep,(Aircraft Contact No.3)
SD contact , range 12,000, closing. Went to periscope depth.
At 2011 spotted the contact bearing 253. Ordered depth of
150 ft until nightfall. Surfaced at 2214.

October 25, 1942

Delayed morning dive due to storms in area. Weather cleared
just before noon and submerged at 1218 for last day in assigned area.
Surfaced at 2148. SJ contact was made at 2159 bearing 200 18,228 yards. Turned to course 259 to intercept.Smoke sighted at 2204. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO called. Submerged for attack at 2208.

Conducted approach on vessel identified in fading light
as a mid sized AK, making a "u turn" to bring stern tubes to bear.
At 2246, tubes 5 and 6 made ready for firing.
(Torpedo Attack No.3) Fired tubes 5 and 6, at 2250.
First torpedo hit at 2252:30, failed to detonate-dud.
Second torpedo hit at 2252:36, detonated, large fireball.
Lost targets engine noises on sound, engines ceased.

Ordered a turn to bring bow tubes to bear, as
stern tubes emptied. Target dead in water at 2311. Tube No.5 reload, stern tubes brought to bear. Tube No.6 reported reloaded at 2314. Fired tubes 5,6 at 2315 (Torpedo Attack No.3-A). At 2315:50 torpedo prematurely detonated. At 2325:56 and just yards from target, torpedo prematurely detonated. Due to proximity, it was thought this torpedo was a hit initially.
Turned about to fire bow tubes. (Torpedo Attack 3-B) fired tubes 1,2,3. Torpedoes 1 and 3 prematurely detonated. Torpedo 2 hit
target, causing a serious list to starboard and fire amidships.
AK KOTO MARU 4466 tons sunk at 44-40N 148-00E.

Due to fuel status and time on station expired, set course 115 to depart patrol area for Pearl Harbor via Midway andSecured General Quarters.

October 26, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

October 27, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

October 28, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

October 29, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

October 30, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

October 31, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

November 1, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

November 2, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

November 3, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

November 4, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.

November 5, 1942

Arrived at Midway and docked at 0630 to refuel. Refueled and departed
for Pearl Harbor at 1300.

November 6, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor

November 7, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor

November 8, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor

November 9, 1942

Arrived Submarine Base Pearl Harbor at 0800. Terminated war patrol

CONTACTS

Aircraft Contacts

No.

1. 1942/09/15 1054 (local)
21-20N 158-30W
Brg.353 Rng. 8,700 yards
Crs. 090 Spd. 100knots
Alt. 800 ft Type-PBY (USN)
How-Visual, SD power off.

2. 1942/10/07 1543
41-57N 144-55W
Brg.248 Rng. 9,000 yards
Crs. 070 Spd. 120 knots
Alt. 2000 ft Type-H6K 'MAVIS'
How-Visual-No.2 periscope.

3. 1942/10/24 2020
Brg. 253 Rng. 12,100 (initial) 6,000 yards (visual)
43-34N 145-42E
Crs. Unknown Spd. 100 knots
Alt. 500 ft Type- H6K 'MAVIS'
How- SD (initial). Visual

Ship Contacts

No.

1. 1942/10/2 1936 (local)
44-5N 137-31E(estimated)
Brg.308 Rng.18,228 yds.
Crs. 040 Spd. 8 knots (estimated)
Type-Unknown, no visual made due to storms.
How- Radar-SJ

2. 1942/10/03 1158 (local)
44-43N 148-30E
Brg.231 Rng.20,253 yds.
Crs. 060 Spd. 8 knots
Type-Unknown, no visual made due to storms.
Later observed to be AK ANZAN MARU
Torpedo Attack No.1 (sunk)
How- Radar-SJ (initial), Visual (later)

3. 1942/10/12 1550 (local)
41-55N 144-56E
Brg.006 Rng. 6 NM
Crs. 245 Spd. 5 knots
Type-Fishing Boat 200 tons
How- Visual, SJ (later)
Gun Action No.1

4. 1942/10/13 1134 (local)
43-21N 145-51E
Brg.001 Rng. 11,000 yards
Crs. 090 Spd. 0 knots
Type-Fishing Boat 200 tons
How- Visual-No.2 Periscope.
Anchored in cove, observed at dawn.

5. 1942/10/17 1306 (local)
44-42N 148-5E
Brg.001 Rng. 19460 yards
Crs. 070 Spd. 10 knots
Type-AK, DD
How- SJ-Visual
Torpedo Attack No.2

6. 1942/10/22 2114 (local)
41-55N 144-56E
Brg.021 Rng. 10,000 yards
Crs. 064 Spd. 5 knots
Type-Fishing Boat x2 200 tons each
How- Visual-No.2 Periscope.
Gun Action No.2

7. 1942/10/22 2159 (local)
44-38N 148-2E
Brg.200 Rng. 18,228 yards
Crs.065 Spd. 9 knots
Type- AK
How- SJ-Visual
Torpedo Attacks No. 3, 3-A, 3-B

ATTACK DATA

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/03
TIME 1332
LAT 44-51N
LONG 148-34E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Day

Ships Sunk
ANZAN MARU AK
3936 tons
1942/10/03 1339
44-51N 148-34E

Verification-

Observed three torpedo hits amidships, forward mast, aft mast
in succession. Roughly one minute after last torpedo hit,
a series of large explosions ripped the vessel apart.
Vessel split into a "V" at the keel, sunk within minutes in two sections.
Observed both sink, the stern section sliding under last at 1339 hours.
No survivors observed.

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME ANZAN MARU
CLASS AK
TONS 3936
COURSE 060
SPEED 10 knots
BEARING 350
TRUE BEARING 329
RANGE 969 yards
AOB 84 S
REMARK
Machine Guns/Auto-Cannon mounted stern, port, and starboard.
Shipping crates strapped to deck.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28831
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1990
GYRO 2 R
COURSE 341
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [ ]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to minimum depth
due to malfunctions with depth control.

TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28832
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1991
GYRO 2 R
COURSE 341
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [ ]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to minimum depth
due to malfunctions with depth control.

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28833
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1992
GYRO 2 R
COURSE 341
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [ ]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to minimum depth
due to malfunctions with depth control.

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 339
SPEED 1.5 knot
ANGLE 2-down
SEA STATE Light chop

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/17
TIME 1539
LAT 44-54N
LONG 148-22E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Day

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
AK RYUSEI MARU
6538 tons
44-54N 148-22E
1942/10/17 1625 (local)

Verification-

Observed two torpedoes impact target. Target engines ceased, went dead in water.
Sound operator reported the tell tale sounds of a ship in distress, breaking out. Soon,
these sounds were clearly audible through hull. Sounds originated from last
bearing of target, indicating target sunk.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME RYUSEI MARU
CLASS AK
TONS 6538
COURSE 075
SPEED 9 knots
BEARING 350
TRUE BEARING 339
RANGE 1240
AOB 86 S
REMARK
Tanks lashed to deck.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28835
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1994
GYRO 1 R
COURSE 350
TRACK 98 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit observed just forward of amidships. Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to
minimum depth due to malfunctions with depth control.

TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28836
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1995
GYRO 1 R
COURSE 350
TRACK 98 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit observed amidships. Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to
minimum depth due to malfunctions with depth control.

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28837
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1996
GYRO 1 R
COURSE 350
TRACK 98 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Upon launch, torpedo took a hard jog to starboard, way off
of directed firing bearing/track. Likely suffered a gyro
malfunction/failure. Torpedo eventually detonated itself about one minute
after firing, as observed through periscope by CO and heard by entire crew.

TUBE NO. 4
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28838
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1997
GYRO 1 R
COURSE 350
TRACK 98 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION End of Run
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Delayed launch, launched after No.3 torpedo suffered apparent
gyro failure. Target, damaged by two torpedo hits, slowed enough
causing No.4 torpedo to miss just ahead of the bow
aby less than 10 feet. Torpedo reached end of run,
end of run explosion audible through hull.

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 350
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 1-down
SEA STATE Calm, flat, glassy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/25
TIME 2250
LAT 44-40N
LONG 148-00E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Night

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged

AK KOTO MARU 4466 tons

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME KOTO MARU (similar to)
CLASS AK
TONS 4466
COURSE 065
SPEED 9 knots
BEARING 180
TRUE BEARING 340
RANGE 780
AOB 90 S
REMARK

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.5
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28951
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2050
GYRO 14 S
COURSE 174
TRACK 69 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Failed to acutate
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Torpedo impacted MOT, but failed to detonate. Audible clang heard
via sound gear and through hull.

TUBE NO.6
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28952
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2052
GYRO 14 S
COURSE 174
TRACK 69 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Failed to acutate
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Crippled target.

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 150
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 1-down
SEA STATE Calm, flat, glassy.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3-A
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/25
TIME 2315
LAT 44-40N
LONG 148-00E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Night

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME KOTO MARU (similar to)
CLASS AK
TONS 4466
COURSE 350
SPEED 0 knots
BEARING 178
TRUE BEARING 251
RANGE 1000 yards
AOB 89 S
REMARK
Crippled, dead in water, from hit in
Torpedo Attack No.3

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3-A TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.5
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28952
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2051
GYRO 357 R
COURSE 070
TRACK 93 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely detonated.

TUBE NO.6
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28953
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2052
GYRO
COURSE
TRACK
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely detonated.

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 200
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 1-down
SEA STATE Calm, flat, glassy.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3-B
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/25
TIME 2326
LAT 44-40N
LONG 148-00E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Night

Ships Sunk

AK KOTO MARU
4466 tons
1942/10/25 2329
44-40N-148-00E

Verification-

Observed torpedo hits crippled vessel.
Observed vessel catch fire, listed to starboard,
and sink.

Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME KOTO MARU (similar to)
CLASS AK
TONS 4466
COURSE 350
SPEED 0 knots
BEARING 357
TRUE BEARING 235
RANGE 1000 yards
AOB 89 S
REMARK
Crippled, listing, dead in water, but afloat. Damage is from hit in
Torpedo Attack No.3

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3-B TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28940
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2050
GYRO 355 R
COURSE 046
TRACK 63 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely detonated.

TUBE NO.2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28941
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2051
GYRO 355 R
COURSE 046
TRACK 63 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit. Target listed further to starboard, large fire amidships
and began to burn.

TUBE NO.3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28942
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2052
GYRO 355 R
COURSE 046
TRACK 63 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Prematurely detonated.

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 236
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 1-down
SEA STATE Calm, flat, glassy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
GUN ACTION NO.1
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/12
TIME 1722
LAT 41-54
LONG 144-54E

ACTION NARRATIVE

While on surfaced patrol in heavy seas, following storm clearing. OOD observed a fishing boat
bearing 006 at six miles. Submerged and closed to review boat. Upon review, decided to dispatch by gunfire.
Upon surfacing, boat attempted to evade, so commenced firing a broadside with both six inch guns, fore and
aft fifty caliber machine guns. Estimed 200+ .50 MG hits were achieved on the boat. The six inch guns had
some initial trouble due to sea state, but began to score hits, which quickly wrecked the wooden hulled boat.A large fire burned profusely, followed by few explosions. Boat quickly capsized to starboard,
with no survivors visible.

GUN ACTION NO.1 TARGET DATA (at firing)

CLASS Fishing Boat
TYPE Sail/Motorized
TONS 200
BEARING 075
TRUE BEARING 177
RANGE 2300 yards
COURSE 245
SPEED 8
REMARK
Caught fire, sunk.

GUN ACTION NO. 1 DATA (at firing)

ROUNDS EXPENDED

6' 53 Caliber- 11 HE

Hits-
4

.50 Caliber Machine Gun- 507 AP

Hits- 200+

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH Surfaced
COURSE 245
SPEED 5 knots
RELATIVE ANGLE TO TARGET 85-90.
SEAS Heavy roll and chop

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
GUN ACTION NO.2
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/22
TIME 2141
LAT 42-21N
LONG 144-46E

ACTION NARRATIVE

While scanning the area in preparation for surfacing the boat at dusk, observed two fishing boats
at 10,000 yards. Closed ranged, and surfaced for gun action. Upon ordered to commence fire, it was discovered
that the forward six inch deck gun was not operational, later found to be due to damage not previously
detected following depth charge attack of 17 October. Forward .50 cal machine gun and aft deck gun
quickly set the fishing boat on fire, which would sink soon after.

The second fishing boat was now on a course opposite NAUTILUS presenting a poor target,
so speed was increased to close target before firing. At 3000 yards, as target suddenly swung hard to port,
"Crossing the T" of NAUTILUS, and opened fire with machine guns. A few rounds of initial bursts struck NAUTILUS
forward deck, bridge sail structure, with a few flying just above the heads of the CO, OOD, and bridge crew
,striking the lower and mid sections of periscope sheers. A well timed duck by all crew
prevented injuries. The forward .50 caliber machine crew laid effective suppressing fire on the
fishing boats gun(s) as NAUTILUS swung to starboard, bringing the aft deck gun and machine gun to bear.
Four rounds and two solid hits from six inch gun, in addition to numerous continued machine gun hits
left the fishing boat a flaming wreck. Firing was ceased and boat quickly slipped beneath the waves.
No survivors from either boat were observed.

GUN ACTION NO.2 TARGET DATA (at firing)

TARGET NO. 1 GUN ACTION NO.2

CLASS Fishing Boat
TYPE Sail/Motorized
TONS 200
BEARING 330
TRUE BEARING 230
RANGE 4000 yards
COURSE 065
SPEED 5
REMARK

TARGET NO. 2 GUN ACTION NO.2

CLASS Fishing Boat
TYPE Sail/Motorized
TONS 200
BEARING 340
TRUE BEARING 240
RANGE 3000 yards
COURSE 065
SPEED 5
REMARK

GUN ACTION NO. 2 DATA (at firing)

ROUNDS EXPENDED

6' 53 Caliber- 21 HE

Hits-
6

.50 Caliber Machine Gun- 417 AP

Hits- Numerous

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH Surfaced
COURSE 250/150
SPEED 5-10 knots
RELATIVE ANGLE TO TARGET 90/0 P
SEAS Calm

WEATHER

Weather conditions proved a challenge during this patrol. While the initial transit to area
was pleasant, upon crossing 40 degrees latitude frigid temperatures, along with frequent gales
made transit difficult.

Weather in patrol area, majority of the time was full of storms, heavy seas, winds, rain,
, sleet, snow, and fog. A few days saw cold, but near cloudless skies, with calm seas or light chop.

TIDAL INFORMATION

Tides in area were found to be normal as reported.

NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

The various islands of the Southern Kurils as well as lights and installations of Hokkaido
provided navigational aides while in area.

MINES

No mines were encountered on this patrol

ANTI SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Enemy ASW patrol presence was surprisingly limited in this area. No ASW patrol vessels were
spotted and just a few patrol aircraft.

Depth Charge Attack No.1
1942/10/17
1547-1820 (local)

The depth charge attack of 17 October was intense, and professional, yet somewhat brief
compared to past counter attacks NAUTILUS has endured. Enemy utilized passive and active sonar,
conducted numerous runs typically 5-10 minutes
apart, some in repeated order. Most depth charges appeared set too shallow of depth
in most cases. A total of fifty nine depth charge explosions were counted.

NAUTILUS suffered serious damage in this attack, for details see MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

Evasion

Evasion tactics were standard. Silent Running, combined with repeated course and speed changes
for duration of attack. Thermal layers were also utilized in addition to "bursts" of speed as required,
primarily when enemy DD was above preparing to drop.

NAUTILUS , rated to a test depth of 300 ft, was again required to descend to a depth of 370 ft
during this attack to evade. This extra 70 feet was handled well as before.

MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

No major defects occurred on this patrol.

Damage occurred due to depth charge attack of 17 October. All damage repaired at sea, unless otherwise
noted.

1. Forward 6' 53 Caliber Gun- Rendered non operational, repaired in port.

2. Trim Pump

3. Hydraulic Pump-Disabled for twenty four hours

4. SJ Radar Cabinet

5. SJ Radar Antenna

6. Conning tower flooding-Pumped

7. WCA Sonar Stack (conning tower)

8. Compressor

9. No.2 Periscope

10. Forward Batteries

11. Piping Leaks

12. High Pressure Air Line leaks.

RADAR

SJ

The new SJ surface search radar performed quite well, enabling to locate targets would have likely not
without it. Typical detection range was 18000-20000 yards. The three crewman, quickly trained in its operation
during last refit period proved excellent operators, as did our "guest" operator from the radar school.

SD

SD Radar performed well with typical detection range of 8000-11000 yards.

RADIO

Radios performed well overall during this patrol.

SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound gear performed moderately well.

The cold waters, currents, and general conditions of the area were not ideal
for underwater sound gear.

THERMAL LAYERS

One thermal layer was detected at 106 feet
on 17 October at 44-54N 148-22E

PERSONNEL

Crew performance was excellent in spite of trying weather conditions in transit and in patrol area.

Two Officers and five men earned qualification during this patrol.

HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Conditions aboard the boat were difficult at times due to the foul weather
which dominated transit to/from area and while on station. However,
hearty, well prepared meals, and the success of sinking three enemy vessels
by torpedo, and three small vessels by gunfire helped maintain morale.

Following suffered injuries during the 17 October depth charge attack:

LT R.B. Lynch, USN. (XO)
ENS N.B. Baker, USN.
RM1c N.B. Cox, USN.
RM2c D.H. Rosencrans, USN.
RdM2c B.I. Schmidt, USN.

All injured were at battle stations in conning tower when a depth charge detonated close
aboard. All injuries treated and healed at sea, with exception of RM1C's broken arm and hand.

MILES STEAMED-FUEL CONSUMED

Pearl to Midway
1350 miles 18560 gallons

Midway to Area
2470 miles 42800 gallons

In Area

6250 miles 70240 gallons

Area to Midway
2500 miles 43444 gallons

Midway to Pearl
1350 miles 19600 gallons

DURATION

DAYS
Pearl to Midway 4

Midway to Area 11

In Area 30

Area to Midway 13

Midway to Pearl 4

Days Submerged 30

FACTORS IN ENDURANCE

Torpedoes: 6

Fuel 27500 gallons

Provisions 21 days

Crew Indefinite

Reason for termination of patrol:

Fuel and time on station expired.

REMARKS

Another successful, busy, and challenging patrol for the NAUTILUS and her crew. Aside from enemy depth crarges,
the weather proved the most formidable opponent on this patrol. Fall/Winder weather in the Kurils and off Northern Japan
at sea, is less the hospitable. Perhaps explains he relatively light traffic encountered, perhaps in summertime
the sea lanes are more active.

Torpedo malfunctions continued to occur on this patrol, but were not as frequent in the first two attacks.
Torpedo Attack No.3 proved frustrating, requiring the firing of seven torpedoes to sink one vessel, for just two
hits. Premature detonations occurred, along with one 'dud'. No torpedoes are believed to have missed due to depth control
issues as on previous patrols due to setting torpedoes to minimum depth, but believe they still ran deeper than set.

In spite of challenges from weather, enemy depth charges, and torpedo malfunctions, three important
merchantman were sunk by torpedo and three fishing boats by gunfire.

W.H. Brockman Jr, LCDR, USN.

October 18, 1942

October 19, 1942

Bubblehead1980

02-09-22, 05:38 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH V 2.0 (not yet released, in testing)
Donation Narwhal Mod
100 difficulty, cams and contacts off.

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL SIX
13 DECEMBER 1942-
26 February 1943

USS Nautilus, under W.H. Brockman Jr., USN, departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 0700 hours on 13 December 1942 for assigned patrol area east of Bougainville. The assigned area covered the approaches to Kieta Harbor as well as the Bougainville Strait and approaches to Tonolei Harbor on Southern Bougainville.

Upon departure conducted underway routine of dive, gunnery, torpedo fire control, and emergency drills. Arrived at Johnston Island on 15 December and topped off fuel tanks, then proceeded on course 235 at 10 knots. The route chosen took NAUTILUS between the Marshall and Gilbert Islands en route to assigned area. A SD contact at 11000 yards was made at 1739 on 17 December. NAUTILUS submerged and remained so until dusk, surfacing at 2020.

NAUTILUS arrived in patrol area at midnight on 25 December and submerged 25 miles off Kieta for patrol just after dawn. Surfaced that evening after a uneventful day and proceeded to Southern portion of area.

TORPEDO ATTACKS NO. 1, 1-A, 1-B.

On 27 December, north of the Bougainville Strait between Bougainville and Choiseul Island, SJ contact was reported bearing 001 at 18000 yards. Established visual contact at dawn, contact was a enemy patrol boat, NAUTILUS turned to avoid and submerged for patrol.

At 1420, sound reported high speed screws bearing 170 closing. Went to periscope depth and at 9000 yards spotted a enemy destroyer. General Quarters-Torpedo was called and initiated a approach. Destroyer was
soon identified to be of the Asashio Class on course 335 at 16 knots.

Next observation revealed a slight course change by DD put NAUTILUS too close for bow shot, so turned to starboard to bring stern tubes to bear.
Torpedoes were set to minimum depth due to ongoing depth control issues with MK 14 torpedo. At 1454 fired tubes 5, and 6, at 1300 yards from target.

First torpedo (Tube No.5) hit the target just aft of amidships area, causing large fire. Second torpedo (Tube No.6) passed below the stern but failed
to explode. The DD soon settled by the stern and slowed. Damage is believed to be caused by the magnetic detonator being actuated. Torpedo, set to minimum depth, obviously ran deeper than set, but was close enough to the hull of target to actuate the magnetic exploder.

As DD went dead in water, ordered stern tubes reloaded for the coup de grace. However, sound reported fast screws, warship closing from 157 degrees. Soon could see a PC type vessel closing at high speed, likely called in to assist the DD. Brought bow tubes to bear on the DD, now dead in the water and fired Tube No.1 at 1515:10. At 15:15:25 torpedo prematurely detonated. At 1515:45 fired tube no.2. Second torpedo hit, running into the side the stricken DD as aimed, blowing a large hole amidships, causing explosions and fire. The destroyer quickly sunk at position 6-29S 156-10E at 15:21 hours.

A fast patrol, PT boat boat was now closing at very high speed. NAUTILUS went to 250 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge on a course NW, away from scene. Ten minutes later enemy arrived on scene and began a search pattern. After two passes in general area of NAUTILUS, the vessel surprised NAUTILUS with pings, as did not figure such a diminutive craft would have active sonar. As vessel roared above, two splashes of depth charges were heard, followed by two close explosions, which caused minor damage (piping, air line leaks, broken bulbs and glass)

The enemy continued to hound NAUTILUS through the afternoon and into evening. At 1951 , while NAUTILUS was at 325 ft, a three close depth charge explosions caused damage throughout the boat. Most serious was aft battery damage and minor flooding in control room, which was quickly stopped.

While the vessel continued searching, this was the last of depth charges dropped. Finally at 0025 on 26 December, contact was lost with the enemy.
Came to periscope depth at 0230 and radar depth, with no contacts, secured silent running and surfaced, headed away from the area of action.

NAUTILUS conducted submerged patrol SE of Kieta within 5 miles of Bougainville coast by day 26-28 December before moving back South to patrol off Bougainville Strait.

At 0400 on 29 December, received orders from COMSUBPAC regarding special mission to evacuate civilians from Teop, Bougainville on 30 December.
Proceeded NNW at 11 knots to arrive on time for the operation.

SPECIAL MISSION

Orders specified NAUTILUS to send a landing party ashore at Teop on 29 December, to rendezvous with British and Australian citizens
, including children, and evacuate them before daylight 31 December.
Executive Officer LT R.B. Lynch, USN, was chosen to lead the six man party.

Submerged ten miles off Teop on 29 December and reconnoitered the area. Surfaced at 2100 and prepared to land party when received message to delay operation until 31 December.

Landing party sent ashore via raft at 0400 on 31 December. Pickup would be arranged upon signals from landing party or, if contact was last. NAUTILUS was be at same position from 0000-0530 each night until recovery made.

Received signals at 2230 31 December for pickup of landing party and civilians at 0200 on 1 January 1943. NAUTILUS closed to 2500 yards
of shore and spotted rafts containing the landing party, twenty six adults, and three children. All were aboard by 0400, NAUTILUS departed area, and
at 0415 received orders to transport passengers to Brisbane, Australia.
A course taking NAUTILUS around the North end of Bougainville through the Solomon and Coral seas to Brisbane at 14.5 knots was plotted and executed.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

However, SJ made contact at 0545 bearing 341 18228 yards. Contact soon developed into a convoy with a DD escorting. NAUTILUS pulled ahead and submerged at 0808 for attack. Normal approach was conducted but upon next observation, convoy had zigged to course 210, a strait line for Kieta Harbor. This put NAUTILUS in position to attack the port column, instead of the starboard as expected. Target selected was a large troopship similar to KONRON MARU 8100 tons, in the middle of the port column.

At 0910:30 fired tubes-1,2,3,4 at target. Torpedoes 1,2,3 all prematurely detonated en route to target. These detonations alerted the convoy, as ships slowed and began turning away, as DD turned about to close the NAUTILUS. However, No.4 still found its point of aim, as impacted the target between her twin stacks at 0912:15. The large AP heaved, from a explosion and fired. A large hole was visible at waterline between the stacks, with fire emanating from the gaping hole in the ships side.

NAUTILUS went to 250 ft, silent running, and rigged for depth charge. The DD, believed to be of the Akatsuki Class, closed in pinging, dropping numerous charges, but none close. However, at 1104, with NAUTILUS at 275 ft, several close charges shook the boat. Damage was reported to forward batteries and hydraulic pumps were seriously damaged. This damage caused noticeable performance changing in rudder and dive plane controls, the boat felt more slugging than usual when submerged. A Damage Control Party was dispatched. At 1135 more close depth charges caused damaged in forward torpedo room, including minor flooding, which was quickly handled.

After several hours of depth charging, enemy lost contact t 1436. NAUTILUS continued on, secured GQ and silent running at 1800 and conducted repairs, surfacing at 2200 to continue on to Brisbane.

At 01010 on 2 January, SJ contact was made on three ships at 19000 yards, bearing 280. Upon closing found one DD escorting two large transports on NW course. With heavy seas and low visibility, struggled to pull ahead for dawn attack as convoy was moving at 12.5 knots. At 0302, range on the DD began to decrease rapidly and lookouts spotted him bearing 205 3000 yards, charging in "with a bone in his teeth". About to be overran by the DD,
NAUTILUS submerged , stopping at periscope depth, hoping to catch the DD with a stern torpedo shot. However, the setup was not favorable. Ordered rig for silent running and depth charge, and a depth of 250 feet. Due to limited visibility and it being unlikely the DD visually observed NAUTILUS, it is believed the DD, a fleet type, may have surface search radar and/or radar detection equipment, which permitted him to detect NAUTILUS.

The passed above and dropped two depth charges, no close. For next twenty minutes, the DD searched for NAUTILUS, then suddenly, began pinging the NAUTILUS. A persistent and at times accurate depth charge attack followed for next six and a half hours. Finally, contact left area at high speed, likely to catch up with his charges.

Just after coming to periscope depth at 1130, sound detected fast props closing, visual check of bearing 300, a second DD arriving on scene, likely dispatched from Buka, Bougainville to hunt for NUATILUS, which went back to 300 feet and maintained silent running, but secured from GQ.

At 1500, with the DD astern but noises audible, sound picked up a contact bearing 000 10000 yards estimated. Sounds appear to be of a submarine.
NAUTILUS crept to periscope depth and spotted a Japanese I-Class submarine on course 330 at 14 knots 6000 yards, range opening. NAUTILUS was unable to fire due to being out of position, unable to surface and attempt to attack due to proximity of the DD astern and enemy airbase less than 30 miles at Buka. Returned to 300 feet and surfaced after dark.

January 3-8 was uneventful as proceeded to Brisbane, scheduled for arrival on 9 January.

On 9 January docked at Brisbane, disembarked passengers and received orders to depart on 12 January for patrol area in the Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes. Crew enjoyed brief liberty periods, boat was refueled, provisioned, and rearmed. NAUTILUS departed Brisbane at 0900 on 12 January for new patrol area.

FRIENDLY FIRE INCIDENT

On 13 January at 1134 SD made contact at 11500 yards. A RAAF Catalina
soon came into view at bearing 085. The Catalina made high pass overhead at about 2000 feet, then made a fast, sharp, banking turn, and then diving toward NAUTILUS. The dive alarm was sounded as the aircraft closed, fast. As NAUTILUS passed 64 feet, four large explosions went off, shaking the boat, causing busted piping, air lines, broken bulbs, and glass, as well as serious damage to tubes No.5 and No.6. Appears NAUTILUS was mistaken for a enemy submarine. (Friendly Fire mod in TMO Update) All damage was able to be repaired within 48 hours.

After a otherwise uneventful passage, arrived in patrol area 400 NM south of Truk in the Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes on 20 January. Conducted submerged patrol along these lines by day.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3

Finally at 0610 on 25 January, SJ made contact at 330 19300 yards, NAUTILUS went to GQ and conducted approach for dawn periscope attack
on a northbound convoy of three AK, one DD escorting.

At 0800, fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at a large AK similar to JOKUJA MARU. All four torpedoes prematurely detonated, one just 5-10 feet from target. Alerted, ships began to maneuver as DD closed. With stern tubes brought to bear, fired tubes 5,6, at a mid sized AK similar to KANAGA MARU. However, her Captain demonstrated skill and maneuvered to avoid the torpedoes, with both missed just ahead of her bow as she turned to starboard.

NAUTILUS rigged for depth charge, silent running and went to 275 feet, below a thermal layer, the first found on this patrol. The DD closed in pinging, dropping depth charges in area. At 1002 DD appeared to gain solid contact on NAUTILUS, roared above and dropped two large patterns. Boat was shaken, but no damage. With NAUTILUS at 300 feet, boat lost contact and last heard on sound leaving area at high speed with the merchants. Believe heavy seas and thermal layer hampered enemy attack efforts in this instance. Surfaced a hour later and attempted to regain contact with convoy but was unable. Ended search after dark and continued patrol.

After several days of rough seas and weather in area, clear skies and calm seas arrived on evening of 30 January.

TORPEDO ATACK NO. 4

At 0704 on 31 January, SJ made contact bearing 352 19240 yards/ Conducted approach for dawn periscope attack and went to General Quarters-Torpedo and submerged for attack at 0800.

On observation at 0830, noticed the six ship, two escort convoy had zigged to the east, opening range considerably from planned firing point. Not wanting to fire from long range, NAUTILUS went to 175 feet at 7.5 knots for a run to close the range much as possible. Slowly and coming to periscope at 0851, range had closed enough to ensure a tolerable firing range. Identified the lead escort as a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat/Escort Vessel, one which had a reputation as a nasty adversary of our submarines. Astern was a older DD of the Wakatake Class.

At 0856 fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at a large AK in center position of port column (two columns, three AK in each, six total) from 2100 yards. Torpedo No.1 impacted amidships as aimed, setting off a massive initial explosion followed seconds later by a massive chain of secondary explosions, which appeared to lift the vessel out of the water. The scene was obscured by flame and smoke, but observed torpedo no.2 hit the bow section. When smoke dissipated somewhat, could see the ships keel had been broken, split at amidships, the vessel was now in two sections. Torpedoes 3 and 4 failed to hit anything, reached their end of run explosions. The bow and stern sections of the AK hit by torpedoes quickly sunk, with one life raft visible.

Soon the Wakatake DD was closing NAUTILUS at high speed. NAUTILUS went to 300 feet, rigged for silent running, and depth charge. Depth charges exploded above as NAUTILUS passed 250 feet but no damage. The other escort, the Chidori soon arrived on scene and lived up to its reputation as, in what is NAUTILUS's most intense depth charging to date, Chidori delivered a large pattern which violently shook the boat. Damage was reported throughout the boat including:

Heavy Flooding in Aft torpedo room, minor flooding in forward torpedo, Aft batteries heavily damaged. Hydraulic pumps again disabled, trim pump damaged, numerous air line and piping leaks. Aft flooding was tended two, the weight of the water, caused a stern angle to be taken by NAUTILUS, requiring more speed to control while the assigned Damage Control Party
worked to stop the flooding. Both escorts made numerous runs on NAUTILUS during this period.

Flooding was stopped , but had several feet of water in bilges and aft torpedo compartment. With batteries damaged, could not afford the power to maintained high speed at all times. NAUTILUS drifted to 430 feet when was forced to add speed to get boat back to 390 feet. Eventually the boat was stabilized, but due to damaged batteries, and excess use of power to compensate for flooding, battery power was at just 30 percent.

At noon, one escort(believed to be the Wakatake DD) left area, presumably to rejoin the convoy, but the Chidori remained behind, hunting, pinging, dropping charges, several came close. The damaged NAUTILUS was at 375 feet, slowly moving along, attempting to conserve battery power as the enemy persisted. Several random explosions, not in area of the escort were heard through the afternoon. Believe this to be from ASW aircraft from Truk sent to assist.

At 1901, suddenly the Chidori regained contact, made four runs on Nautilus over next thirty minutes, causing some damage. NAUTILUS's battery power was now 19 percent. Next few hours, enemy commenced periods of listening, followed by pinging, dropping charges, most close and never appearing to lose general idea of NAUTILUS's location.

Finally, at 0102 on 1 February, Chidori made a final run, rushing above but about 100 yards off to port, dropped a large pattern, which shook the boat, then departed area at high speed.

After over a hour of all clear, NAUTILUS eased to periscope depth at 0200, then SJ depth at 0215. All clear, secured and surfaced. Battery power was down to just 6 percent of capacity. Upon surfacing repairs immediately began and torpedoes reloaded.

At 0500 , received orders to proceed to Woleai for reconnoiter and bombardment mission. Proceeded on course for Woleai at 8.5 knots to conserve fuel.Several SD contacts en route were made, but no planes sighted.

Arrived off Woleai on 5 February, conducted daytime observation, plotting location of large fuel tanks and a large ship in the lagoon. Surfaced at 2350
but seas were too rough for bombardment. Seas finally calmed sufficiently by 0300 and ordered General Quarters-Gun Action.

Fired 100 6" 53 caliber rounds from 7500 yards, destroying eight large fuel tanks and damaging a mid sized AK as well as PC type in the lagoon. Cleared area by 0500. Submerged at 0800 to avoid patrolling aircraft.

At noon, while at periscope depth, received message to bombard Fais Island.
Surfaced at dusk and proceeded to Fais Island at 8 knots.

Arrived off Fais on 7 February and submerged at dawn. Surfaced at dusk and conducted bombardment of island. Destroyed a H6K MAVIS flying boat moored at the island, as well six small fuel storage tanks. Secured from GQ and set course for Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island due to fuel status.

Submerged to avoid aircraft NW of Truk, SE of Guam on 9, 10, February, contacted by SD only. On the morning of 12 February, SD failed to detect a 'MAVIS', and lookouts spotted a MAVIS incoming bearing 170 8000 yards. NAUTILUS submerged and as was passing 115 feet, rocked by several large explosions. Fortunately, no damage reported. Remained submerged until dark and surfaced. On 22 February at 0600, docked at Johnston Island for fuel. Departed at 1200 and proceeded to Pearl Harbor. Arrived Submarine Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 1600 26 February 1943 and terminated war patrol.

SHIPS SUNK

Asashio Class Destroyer
2370 tons
1942/12/27 1455(local)
6-29S 156-10E

AKAMA MARU
AK-Cargo
5425 tons
1943/01/01 0854 (local)
1-25N 148-19E

SHIPS DAMAGED

AP KONRON MARU
8100 tons
1943/01/01 0912 (local)
5-32S 155-36E

A few screenshots......
https://i.postimg.cc/k4nK8BQT/Ashsink1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/wx1cksKr/Ashsink2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/FscyM5Hg/Ashsink3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/nhJ4ZRs8/Ashsink4.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/2jgd98rS/Ashsink5.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/DwPqzrsS/ashsink6.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/438V6XWZ/asksink7.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/DZ8s5RNG/damaged1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/25jnL1F2/damaged2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/zvhhYK8X/damaged4.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/wvZNr0KG/DD.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/rwMr7DbM/Konrondamaged1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/FHpLv95c/konrondamaged2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/dQZrCPrP/konronscope1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/PrmD6WSS/konronscope2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/vmm6HpbK/Naut1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/GpSTBqpm/storms1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Xboxman523

02-09-22, 08:43 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH V 2.0 (not yet released, in testing)
Donation Narwhal Mod
100 difficulty, cams and contacts off.

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL SIX
13 DECEMBER 1942-
26 February 1943

Good read! I'm curious does the donation narwhale feature the cutdowns to the rear aa gun platform it seems these subs had during the war?

Bubblehead1980

02-09-22, 08:55 PM

Good read! I'm curious does the donation narwhale feature the cutdowns to the rear aa gun platform it seems these subs had during the war?

Thanks, it was a interesting/challenging/fun patrol. Going to see if can survive to end of war in the Narwhal. Can already tell it is going to be tough lol. Of course as time goes on will be involved in more special missions, making opportunistic attacks vs out hunting convoys etc, as the real boats did. Big, slow diving, sluggish, limited depth boat, can only imagine trying to use it in 1944/45 under heavy depth charge attack or on surface at night with escorts around or lol. Sure will found out soon.

Next patrol is May 1943, transporting/landing Army scouts to/on Attu as part of Operation LandCrab (invasion of Attu) in May 1943.

Unfortunately, it does not appear so. Looks like the donation Narwhal, as a custom built model, has a custom built conning tower and it only uses the early war model. However, I am working on solving that, the pseudo narwhal in TMO does have the cut down conning tower, hopefully will work with the donation model

Xboxman523

02-10-22, 01:52 AM

Good luck! :Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

02-10-22, 02:26 PM

Good luck! :Kaleun_Salute:

Thanks:Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

02-11-22, 04:49 PM

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL SEVEN
20 April-21 May 1943

PROLOGUE

Returned to Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. on 26 February 1943 from SIXTH War Patrol, 76 days since
departure in December 1942. All except for a brief two day stop in Brisbane, were spent at sea. Upon return, shore commenced commenced
while voyage repairs along with battle damage repairs were conducted. One twin 20 MM gun was installed forward, and one twin 20 MM gun
was installed after, replacing the .50 Caliber Machine gun mounts. Twenty four MK 14 torpedoes were loaded, along with provisions
and ammunition 17-19 April. Ready for sea 20 April.

NARRATIVE

April 20, 1943

Departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. for Dutch Harbor, Alaska at 0730 in accordance with Operational Order
No. 43-35, to conduct a special mission. Departed harbor on course 090, then turned to 345 for a transit off the eastern shore of Oahu.
SD Radar made a contact at 1218, range 14000 yards, steady. No visual contact was made. (Aircraft Contact No.1)
Conducted trim dive from 1230-1245, surfaced and continued on course 345 at 14.5 knots.

At 1437 spotted (Ship Contact No.1) surfaced submarin position 21-45N 158-25W, bearing 110, course 210 speed 18 knots, range 9000 yards. SJ did not contact this
vessel before lookouts. Submarine determined to be a Gato Class Fleet Boat on crouse 210 at high speed,
likely coming in from US mainland attemping to make harbor before dusk.

April 21-26 1943

En route Dutch Harbor, conducted normal underway routine, along with dive, torpedo fire control, gunnery, and
emergency drills. Weather remained calm overall, with seas growing choppy and a noticeable decrease in temperature
as NAUTILUS made her way Northward.

At 2108 on 26 April, SD contacted a aircraft (Aircraft Contact No.2) at 12000 yards, closing. As dusk settled,
visually spotted a PBY patrol plane bearing 272, course 355 altitude 1200. PBY made a flyover of NAUTILUS
exhcanged recognition signals, PBY continued on to Dutch Harbor. Position approximately 75 NM SSE of Dutch Harbor.

April 27, 1943

At 0100 slowed speed to 7 knots to ensure NAUTILUS did not arrive Dutch Harbor before dawn.
Lookouts spotted several ice flows and icebergs in area, but none within 5000 yards.

As dawn began to break at 0349, sighted PBY bearing 030 altitude 600 ft. PBY flew above, exchanged recognition signals
, PBY escorted NAUTILUS towards Dutch Harbor, remaining in our vicinity.

Docked Dutch Harbor, Alaska at 0550.

April 28-30, 1943

NAUTILUS assigned to support Operation LANDCRAB, the recapture of Attu Island by US forces.
NAUTILUS assigned to special mission in support of LANDCRAB, but transporting and landing
109 men of US 7th Infantry Division Provisional Scout Battalion and Native Alaskan Guardsmen at
SCARLET BEACH on Northern Attu in advance of forthcoming landings on 11 May.

Conducted voyage repairs, topped off fuel and provisions for forthcoming operation.
Conducted familiarization training with Army scouts in submarining and deployment of boats
via submarine . Ready for sea 1 May.

1 May

Departed Dutch Harbor for Special Mission at 0530 hours. Conducted trim dives
at 0900 and 1621. Set course for Adak Island to top off fuel prior to conducting
operations.

2 May

En route to conduct special operation via Adak. Scouts permitted on deck on 3 May to conducted
boat drills. Uneventful.

3 May

Fighting heavy seas, which began shortly after 0100, entered harbor, docked at Adak Operating Base
from 0600-1400. Topped off fuel and provisions. Departed at 1430 on course to take well North of Kiska to avoid enemy aircraft
and patrols en route to Attu.

4-9 May

Bering Sea certainly lived up to her reputation, as Arctic gales began after 0900 on 4 May,
ending relatively enjoyable weather had experienced since departing Dutch Harbor.

10 May

Submerged off Holtz Bay, Attu Island at 0330 for reconnoiter of the area, including SCARLET Beach,
where the Scouts are to be landed on 11 May.

At 0700 and 1800 a Fubuki Class DD came into view, patrolling the area. Went to 300 ft and silent running to avoid
as not to reveal our presence prior to landings. Surfaced at 2200.

11 May

At 0100 deployed all men of US Army Scouts 3000 yards off SCARLET Beach. Departed area to West for
patrol in the Northern Kuril Islands and Sea of Okhotsk.

SJ contact was established at 1106, bearing 347 19845 yards. Spotted two ships with one escort, possible DD
at 1111. Likely enemy convoy not aware of the morning's landings on Attu. Proceeded to course
090 to get ahead of the vessels, sent contact report. Lost SJ contact at 1151, but regained contact at 1204 at 20200 yards.
Convoy on course 090 9 knots.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

Submerged for attack at 1227, went to a depth of 250 feet for high speed run to close the range of five
nautical miles to get to ideal firing point. Called GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO at 1234. Sound made contact
with enemy ships at 1244, closing. Slowed to 3 knots and went to periscope depth at 1253.Two large
AK followed a PB type, believed to be PB No. 4x , similar to old Wakatake Class DD's converted to escort/patrol vessels. Observation at 1308 confirmed course 090 8.5 knots. A second, smaller
escort was spotted astern, trailing the vessel. This could possible indicate the important of the two
transports. Tubes 1,2,3,4 made ready to fire at 1317.

Observation at 1331 selected large AK in rear of column identified as ARISAN MARU for attack. Fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at 1334. Torpedo No.1 prematurely detonated just yards from target. Torpedo No.2
hit side of target, but failed to detonate (DUD), impact audible on sound. Torpedo No.3 run below target and exploded
fifty yards off opposite side. Torpedo four impacted target amidships, large explosion, believe
blew boilers/engines out as target engine noises ceased.

Rear escort, identified as a MS, began to close NAUTILUS's location at high speed. Ordered 250 feet,
rigged for silent running and depth charge, while commencing turn into her to narrow profile to beam.
Passed thermal layer at 85 feet. Pinging began at 1341, escort above, high speed props.
DC explosions at 1343, astern of NAUTILUS, not close.

Pinging from second escort, now on scene, began at 1346, with escort soon roaring above, with audible splashes.
Boat shaken. Series of close depth charge explosions at 1352 shook the boat, caused minor damage in various compartments.
Another series of very close charges exploded at 1356, but no serious damage was reported.

Several more depth charge runs were close, with enemy apparently maintained strong contact, even with NAUTILUS
at depth of 365 feet. NAUTILUS was shaken severely again at 1435 due to numerous close depth charges, but suffered no damage,
as it is believed depth charges are set too shallow, as has so often proven case.
NAUTILUS at depth of 388 feet, with explosions likely taking place at 350-360 feet.
Enemy suddenly and unexpectedly began departing area at high speed, perhaps to rejoin the freighters at 1450.
Last depth charge explosion was at 1447. However, sound maintained contact with one enemy warship, searching the area for some time.
Lost sound contact with enemy at 1545. Secured GQ, maintained silent running.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1A

After several hours of silence from enemy, believing they left area, came to periscope scope at 1815. Spotted
the AK ARISAN MARU bearing 018 7 nautical miles, dead in the water, slightly down by the stern, and likely abandoned. Began approach, cautiously searching for
undetected escort vessel. At 2034, began rising from 90 ft, called GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO to administer the coup de grace to
ARISAN MARU.

At periscope and SJ radar depth, only one contact detected, apparently the stricken transport was
left behind as the convoy, still seemingly unaware of the landings earlier in day, continued on course towards
Attu. Returned to 90 ft and set course to attack from port side as in previous attack, reloaded bow tubes.

Returned to periscope depth at 2132 and fired Tubes 1,2 from 1000 yards. At 2133:10 firs torpedo impacted, but was a dud. Second torpedo prematurely exploded.
Third torpedo hit at 2133 and was a dud, as was fourth torpedo. Turned to bring stern tubes to bear.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1B

Fired tubes 5,6 from 1050 yards at 2147. At 2148 enemy gunners opened fire at periscope, possibly spotted it or torpedo wakes in the glow of the sunset on the icy waters.
First torpedo prematurely detonated at 2147, second for unknown reason missed astern by wide margin, possible gyro failure.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1C

Ordered full turn to port to bring bow tubes to bear, firing tubes 1 and 2 at 2157. Enemy gunners again opened up in direction of
NAUTILUS's periscope. Torpedo 1 impacted, but was a dud. Torpedo hit, causing large fire amidships. Fired tube
No. 3 at 2159. Torpedo hit, but was a dud. Fired tube No 4, torpedo prematurely detonated.

Torpedo Attack No.1D

Brought stern tubes to bear once again and fired tubes 5,,6 at 2235. At 2236, first torpedo hit, but was ANOTHER dud. Second torpedo
impacted and detonated, causing a large fire which quickly spread. ARISAN MARU quickly began to settle in the water.
ARISAN MARU 7827 tons sunk at 2241, position 53-08 N 172-01E. No survivors observed.

Quickly surfaced, secured GQ and with just four torpedoes remaining (after SIXTEEN fired) , set course at flank speed on
course 090 in attempt to locate remaining ships. Considered that likely by dusk they received word about
invasion and diverted course, will compensate course to see if can intercept them heading back West.

May 12, 1942

On surface, 75 NM SW of Attu patrolling probable 'escape' route of convoy if diverted.
SJ made contact at 0818 at 5-20N 171-40 E bearing 039 19000 yards. Increased speed to flank and began closing.

Multiple plumes of smoke spotted, do not believe this is same convoy contacted previous day, unless joined with other ships
heading West away from Aleutians given invasion of Attu.

Attempting to pull ahead and get maximum battery charge prior to attack. This is proven difficult as
batteries have been slow to recharge, possibly damaged in previous day's depth charge attack

Batteries stopped charging at 85 percent capacity, confirming damage. However, charge is sufficient for attack
and evasion. Convoy is now on NNW course 280 at 9 knots. Disengaged battery charged, ordered ahead flank to pull ahead for attack.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO was called at 1030 and submerged for attack at 1037.Went to 250 ft at flank speed
to close the range for firing.

Upon visual observation from 3000 yards at 1111, convoy does not appear to be same one contacted
on 11 May. Convoy is four AK and one DD believed to be of the Akatsuki Class. At 1117, DD appeared to be closing but
was on normal sweep, returned to position. NAUTILUS, after holding her collective breath for several minutes, breathed a sigh of relief
the DD did not detect her. Continued to close in for attack .

Fired tubes 3,4, at 1127 at large AK in port column. All bow torpedoes expended. during torpedo run.
Torpedo one prematurely detonated at 1128:55, second torpedo hit, detonated at 1129:02. Torpedo hit amidships and
caused a large explosion, vessel slowed. NAUTILUS rigged for depth charge and silent running, went to 300 ft as DD turned about and was heading directly for periscope.

Depth charge explosions astern estimated 2000 yards. Pinging soon began at 1137, DD closing in fast. Several depth charge explosions above, not close at 1139. Several close depth charges at 1201 and 1210 caused minor damaged,
but the rest were not close and the DD appeared to never have strong contact with NAUTILUS, possibly due to
thermal layers detected, in addition to the sea condition (as later observed) grew choppy since dive.
However, DD remained in area pinging, dropping charge, stopping to listen and repeat cycle.

Finally, sound contact was lost at 1520. Secured GQ, maintained silent running. At periscope depth at 1955, all clear on visual and SJ sweep.
Surfaced at 2000. Set course to pursue last track of convoy to regain contact.

SJ contact bearing 353 20055 yards at 2040. At 2108 spotted damaged AK dead in water, apparently another
left behind. Due to thick fog and diminishing daylight , did not visually spot AK until 9000 yards away. Ordered immediate dive
for approach. Leveled off at 75 feet and 4 knots. Called GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO at 2114.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2A

Observed transport at 2133 dead in water, well settled with decks partly awash.
Approached to turn for stern shot, as all bow torpedoes expended in previous attack.

Fired tubes 5,6, at 2222 from 1000 yards. All torpedoes expended.
Torpedo one ran below target, observed wake pass under. Second torpedo prematurely detonated 15-20 yards away.

With all torpedoes expended, opened range and stood by for BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION.
Blew tanks for rapid surface at 2335, commenced firing at 2337 from 5000 yards with broadside of
6" 53 caliber guns. Twenty one rounds were fired from each gun for twenty two hits. The large
AK SHOHEI MARU 9980 tons sunk at 2357 52-20N 169-50E.

Status report was sent to COMSBUPAC, with option to return to port.
All torpedoes expended and damaged batteries now not recharging beyond 77 percent, turned for Pearl Harbor,
after a brief, but busy patrol.

May 13-20 1943

En route Pearl Harbor. Rough seas and storms 14-16 May, otherwise uneventful transit.

May 21, 1943

Arrived Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H., docked at 1130 and terminated war patrol.

SHIPS SUNK

AK SHOEHEI MARU
9980 tons

AK ARISAN MARU
7827 tons

REMARKS

Of twenty torpedoes fired, just three managed to function properly. Premature explosions and duds continue to be a problem. Depth control failures persist, however are usually negated when able to set torpedo to minimum depth.

Forward and Aft Batteries damaged in depth charge attack, unable to repair at sea.

Orders to Mare Island for overhaul and refit prior to next war patrol.

W.H. Brockman Jr.

Screenshots

https://i.postimg.cc/cJ4gNyqL/Orders.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/wxtNvp1t/NAUTILUS20mmfrw.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/yYgDVXr0/akonfire.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/qRv7W83h/backingoutdutch.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/L40qK0vH/Beringseastorm.png (https://postimages.org/)

Storms in Bering Sea en route to Special Mission at Attu

https://i.postimg.cc/wBHMQKxk/damaged-AK.png (https://postimages.org/)

Damaged by torpedo

https://i.postimg.cc/Z560NYmR/damaged-AKscope1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/MH4X7vXc/debrisshoei.png (https://postimages.org/)

Debris from SHOHEI MARU after sinking.

https://i.postimg.cc/g0DJMMnb/Dutch1.png (https://postimages.org/) Dutch Harbor

https://i.postimg.cc/jdpLCwGm/dutchdawn.png (https://postimages.org/) Dutch Harbor at dawn

https://i.postimg.cc/j2WSStvR/Dutchharbor.png (https://postimages.org/) Dutch Harbor

https://i.postimg.cc/wxPBbRTM/Dutchharbor2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Fz2sf8n3/dutchils.png (https://postimages.org/)

Dutch Harbor

https://i.postimg.cc/MGd60vFW/Dutchsunglowdeck1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/HLpW7Q3Z/Dutchsunrise2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/wj5TvW5R/dutchsunrisenautdeck1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Sun on deck

https://i.postimg.cc/28Z5pjVw/icebergscope1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Iceberg. Some oflarge ones reach high enough the SD air search radar will detect them...fun fact.

https://i.postimg.cc/BnfnJWFG/icebergscope2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Rq54CfNT/Nautaft-CT.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Tw1Rtfzn/PBYDutch1.png (https://postimages.org/)

PBY arriving to escort NAUTILUS into Dutch Harbor at dawn

https://i.postimg.cc/B6zJyR3k/PBYDutch2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/RVKn7LQ4/SBoat-inport.png (https://postimages.org/)

Old S Boat in port at Dutch Harbor

https://i.postimg.cc/WzJsPSb3/scoutsboardinfrafts.png (https://postimages.org/)

Difficult to see, but US Army Scouts boarding rafts on 11 May 0100, 5 hours before main forces land on Attu (Operation Landcrab)

https://i.postimg.cc/nzXXC4h8/shoheimaru1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/1zCgmCPc/shoheimaru3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/cHPrYvvv/shoheimarudamaged.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/sgJQ8fNL/SHOHEIMARUsinking.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/L8SgNgNf/smokeplumeinfog1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Still one of my favorite mods. Visually tracking convoy at ten miles by the smoke plumes. In the Aleutians fog, can still see smoke if pay attention. SJ radar off, only periodic sweeps.

https://i.postimg.cc/zv3VHnDZ/adakquestim.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bubblehead1980

02-13-22, 05:35 PM

TMO Update BH V2.0
Donation Narwhal Mod
100 difficulty, cams off, contacts off,

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL EIGHT
16 SEPTEMBER- 12 OCTOBER 1943

PROLOGUE

Returned to Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. from SEVENTH War Patrol on 21 May 1943. After voyage repairs proceeded to Mare Island, CA for overhaul. Arrived Pearl Harbor from Mare Island 25 August 1943. LCDR W.H. Brockman Jr., USN, was relieved by LCDR W.D. Davis, USN as Commanding Officer on 26 August 1943. Ready for sea 15 September 1943.

NARRATIVE

16 September

Departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H., for Special Mission at 0700. Escorted by PC-461 out of area. Observed a PBY patrol plane at 1624, exchanged recognition signals.

17-18 September

En route to Gilbert Islands via Johnston Island

19 September

Finally docked at Johnston for fuel top off. Foul weather throughout the morning prevented entrance to the atoll. at 1245 .Departed at 1715 hours.

20-25 September

En route Gilbert Islands for Special Mission. Assigned to conduct photographic reconnaissance of Makin, Tarawa, and Abemama Atolls.

26 September

Submerged ten miles off Makin Island at 0600, before dawn.

At 0900, Makin Island was clear in sight. Closed very close to reef within five miles and photographed shore batteries, fuel storage tanks, a anchored inner island freighter estimated at 1500 tons, as well as AA gun emplacements.
Photography of Makin Island completed by 1000, turned South for recon of Kuma and Butaritari Island.

Photographed shore installations on Kuma at 1130 and proceeded to Butaritari Island, arriving off shore at 1500. Butaritari Island, where NAUTILUS landed raiders in August 1942, showed signs of being substantially reinforced since that visit with multiple shore batteries and gun emplacements. Fuel tanks destroyed at the lagoon's port last year were repaired. Observation posts/coastal searchlights also observed. Completed photography of Butaritari Island and proceeded to round island and turn North for final objective at Makin, Bikati Island, which would be reconnoitered on 27 September after dawn.

27 September

Submerged before dawn and closed Bikat Island. At 0900 from 5000 yards, photographed shore installations including shore batteries. A small boat, possibly PC type of 50 tons or so was moored inside the reef near the island.

With objectives at Makin Atoll complete, turned south for Tarawa Atoll at a depth of 100 feet and speed of 4 knots. At 1223, sound reported warship contact bearing 346, closing. At periscope depth spotted smoke plume of a PC type vessel, converted tugboat. When vessel suddenly turned towards NAUTILUS, went to 300 feet and silent running. PC roared above, but no signs of detecting NAUTILUS. Lost sound contact at 1330 maintained silent running until 1600 and secured. Surfaced after dusk and proceeded to Tarawa Atoll.

28 September

Submerged ten miles off Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll before dawn. Photographed enemy installations on the tiny, but reinforced island. Surfaced when clear of area and proceeded to Abemama Atoll.

Submerged off Abemama at 1500. Conducted photography of Abatiku Island,
the reef entrance, south east cape, and Manoku Village areas prior to dusk. Surfaced ten miles off shore and proceeded to east side of Island to complete photographic mission at dawn.

At 0334 a PC type vessel was detected on SJ radar range 9100 yards. Vessel came within 5000 yards but was evaded successfully with no indication NAUTILUS was detected.

Submerged before dawn east of Abemama , photographing installations there. At 1100, conducted photography of enemy shore batteries and gun emplacements on NE Abemama.

Received message from COMSUBPAC at 1104 ordered rendezvous submarine MUSKALLUNGE at 3-7 N 166-26 E. MUSKLLUNGE reported being strafed by enemy fighter planes to the east of the Marshall Islands while en route to patrol area in Palau Islands, with several crew injured. Not able to continue with seriously injured crew aboard, but not wanting to turn back to Pearl Harbor, it was decided to have NAUTILUS provide transport. as was roughly one days sailing time at best speed. Accordingly, NAUTILUS proceeded to designated rendezvous point at 16.5 knots.

29 September

Arrived in area just after dusk and at 2044 SJ made contact with MUSKALLUNGE at Bearing 340 7,825 yards. Fortunately, seas were calm and made transfer (Rescue Raft mod is great) of injured crewmembers a easy task. Upon recovery, exchanged messages of "well done" and god speed" , proceeded at 14.5 knots for Pearl via Johnston Island. While not ideal due to heavy patrols, the "gap" between Gilbert and Marshall Islands was the fastest way home, with injured men aboard and a deadline to return to Pearl by 20 October in order for our vital intelligence gathered to be analyzed properly, chose this route.

30 September

En route Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island. Uneventful.

1 October

Heavy winds and seas set in around 0400, slowly advance to 15 knots.

At 1130 , approximately 125 nautical miles East South East of Mili Atoll, SD radar made contact with aircraft at 12000 yards, closing fast. Submerged to avoid.

After hour and a half, a periscope and SD sweep, it was decided to surface.
At 1300, just after sounding the surface alarm, prior to securing sound gear, sound detected a closing contact, close aboard to port. Unable to stop the ascent, ordered flank speed and quickly assessed the situation on the bridge. With no contact visible, it was assumed (as reported) contact a submarine, quickly confirmed as in the heavy seas the conning tower/periscope shears of the enemy submarine broached and were briefly visible.

Standard procedure for NAUTILUS is to turn away and present stern to such contact. However, given the distance, it was likely the submarine was at its firing point or had in fact fired, opening the angle would have likely exposed NAUTILUS to a torpedo hit. A order of rudder hard to port was given and NAUTILUS turned , her engines and gears groaning. Collision Alarm was sounded and With a zero degree AOB on the enemy sub attempted to run above him to put astern so could submerge and prevent a likely shot by the enemy. As passed above, in the clear but rough seas, the silhouette of the enemy submarine was visible. After passing over the enemy, ordered a hard turn to starboard and to submerge.

Ordered a depth of 200 feet, rigged for silent running. Sound maintained strong contact with submarine and sound of torpedoes in water was audible. Appears NAUTILUS has a true close call. After a hour and a half, sound lost contact with enemy submarine. Maintained silent running until 1600 and secured. Remained submerged until after nightfall when surfaced and proceeded on run at flank speed, changing course in case enemy sub was in area, possible shadowing. (AI subs will in fact stalk contacts have found in testing. Their waypoints are also structured to move ahead and back track to simulate a end around, kind of neat how it works out in the)

2 October

Beginning at dawn, a series of SD contacts throughout the day prevented surface running.

3 October

Only one SD contact all day, remained submerged for majority of day though.

4 October

En route Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island.
Storms, heavy seas, slowed advance.

5 October

En route Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island.

Storms and heavy seas continued.

6 October

Unable to enter Johnston Island due to storms.

7 October

Storms persisting in area. Decision was made to continue on to Pearl Harbor as had fuel required to make the trip, although at slower speeds.

8-11 October

En route Pearl Harbor

12 October

Docked at Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H., terminated war patrol.

SHIPS SUNK
None

No torpedo were conducted on this patrol as primary objective was a special mission and no worthwhile targets were encountered.

Special Mission

Photographic Reconnaissance of Makin, Tarawa, and Abemama Atolls was a complete success. Excellent photographs of shore installations were made. Fortunately, the weather in area was quite cooperative.

Additional Operations

Rendezvous with MUSKALLUNGE (SS-262) was conducted with some ease. Coordinates provided were accurate and MUSKALLUNGE arrived prior to NAUTILUS. Seas were calm and made easy transport of the injured sailors back to Pearl Harbor.

(This photo mission as well as secondary assignment to pick up injured sub is part of the new patrol objectives added to the campaign in V 2.0. The retrieval is conducted by the "rescue raft" , as raft which can be picked up like a survivor in the war. These rafts are present in the first version of the TMO Update mod and spawn from some downed aircraft)

Screenshots

I had the external camera off. However, I had to cheat so used the free roam cam(internal cam) to "walk" off the bridge and down the side, below. Takes time but managed to get this screenshot as passed above the enemy submarine. I hoped to catch torpedoes in the shot but did not. However, they were close enough I could hear them while submerged with the cam as well as on sound gear. Tub turned away it appears as I tried to run him over lol.

https://i.postimg.cc/Yq7zM0k3/subencounter.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/sDJ9XzgR/Soundgear1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bubblehead1980

02-16-22, 01:05 PM

TMO Update BH V2.0 (soon to be released)
Donation Narwhal
100 difficulty with cams and contacts off.

War Patrol Report
USS Nautilus SS-168
8 November-12 December 1943

PROLOGUE

Returned Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. from War Patrol EIGHT 26 October 1943. Commenced normal refit and repair along with preparation for special mission on upcoming patrol. Ready for sea 8 November 1943.

NARRATIVE

Departed 0900 9 November Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H., underway for Special Mission per Comsubpac Op. Order 263-43.Eight officers and seventy men of Amphibious Reconnaissance Company under Captain J.L. Jones, USMCR embarked. Proceeded on course directly to Gilbert Islands, forgoing usual stop at Johnston Island.

Primary assignment of this patrol was to land and support the Marine Reconnaissance Company at Abemama Atoll ahead of the landings there in addition to providing support upon successful landing. However, the initial assignment was to arrive at Tarawa Atoll by 17 November for a last minute reconnoiter provide weather, tidal, and any other information prior to the landings, which (unknown at the time) were to take place on 20 November at Makin and Tarawa Atolls.

8-16 November conducted drills, including drills with the Marines on deployment of boats from submarine. With the exception of diving for SD contacts (likely patrol plans from Gilberts/Marshalls) on 15 and 16 November, the passage was uneventful. Arrived off Tarawa Atoll 0500 17 November. Submerged ten miles South of Betio Island at 0600 and conducted approach.

Weather, tide, and other information were recorded and sent to COMSUBPAC per operation order. Noted defensive installations visible ashore.

At noon a pesky patrol craft type vessel meandered through the area, forcing NAUTILUS to 250 feet twice through the afternoon. At 1700 a EMILY flying boat was spotted flying low over the water, apparently in landing approach to the lagoon.

Conducted second day of reconnaissance on 18 November, but was hampered by afternoon storms.

At midnight 19 November was released from station and ordered to continue primary mission, proceeded to Abemama. Submerged at dawn en route to Abebama to avoid aircraft, maintained submerged transit.

At 1100 detected a small inner island freighter of a bout 1200 tons on sound, went to GQ and attempted to close, but vessel was out of range. Surfaced to attempt end around but a pesky "PETE" floatplane in area prevented surface run. Not wanting to be off schedule for primary mission, abandoned chase and continue on original course.

Submerged off Abemama Atoll 0500 20 November and conducted reconnoiter, noting position of visible shore batteries and other installations relative to the reef opening channel. Sound reported contact at 1331 and soon observed a PC type vessel departing the atoll, making a sweep in area. NAUTILUS was forced to 250 feet, rigged for silent running at 1441 as PC changed course and passed directly above. The sudden initial term gave the impression that the PC had detected NAUTILUS, but this proved to not be the case, thankfully. Surfaced after dark at 2100 and began preparations for special mission.

At 0000 21 November, with NAUTILUS at General Quarters, entered Abemama Atoll under cover of darkness on surface on carefully selected course. Arrived at landing area 0031 and deployed the Marines in their boats at 0040-0115 hours. Cleared the reef 0200. The dark night and calm surf in the lagoon made the infiltration of the atoll not as difficult as anticipated.

Submerged at 0600 off Abemama Atoll, maintaining periscope depth to watch for signals from ashore in addition to maintaining ability to receive radio messages. At 1300 received message from Marines ashore to conduct supply drop at designated location at 0030 hours 22 November . A nosey patrol plane lumbered through the area throughout the afternoon of the 21st, forcing NAUTILUS deep several times.

Surfaced at 2100 on 21 November and commenced preparations for supply mission. Went to General Quarters and entered the lagoon at 2330. Arrived at designated location close to just 2000 yards from shore at 0025 22 November and sent supplies ashore in three boats. Withdrew from the lagoon with understanding would arrange rendezvous to retrieve crew sent ashore at later time. This was decided during the preparation phase as best option to avoid NAUTILUS's time and possible exposure in the lagoon.

Surfaced at dawn 22 November and commenced patrol through area. A PC swept the area during the day, requiring NAUTILUS to go deep three times to avoid detected. Surfaced after dark. Received message at 2200 23 November to rendezvous east side of atoll to recover crew and two wounded Marines via raft at 0100 24 November.

Recovered the rafts with our crew, in addition to two wounded Marines and Captain Jones himself at 0130, who went back ashore at 0300. A mission for bombardment was put together for 0845 on 24 November to support operations ashore. Surfaced 5000 yards off North East end of Abemama at 0842 24 November, commenced firing at 0845, ceased fire at 0945. Bombardment with six inch guns reported highly effective against enemy troops. After ceasing fire, submerged and left area. Several explosions were heard aster of us about fifteen minutes later, presumed to be aircraft dispatched to reports of submarine in area.

Sound made contact at 1800, this was soon revealed to be the main invasion force for Abemama. Surfaced after dark and at 0005 25 November was received message releasing from station midnight 26 November. Patrolled area through the day with no enemy contacts. Surfaced 2100 25 November and departed for Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island 26 November.

On 27 November at dawn, two SD contacts at 9000 yards were made and soon spotted, coming in from opposite directions. NAUTILUS submerged and as passed 88 feet was shaken severely by multiple explosions, with numerous other explosions astern. Both aircraft appeared to be BETTY type medium bombers. This team tactic was interesting and NAUTILUS had not encountered it before. Remained submerged through the day, spotted aircraft in area (BETTY and MAVIS) three times throughout the day.

Surfaced after dark 27 November and continued on. Fuel status was somewhat low due to having to forgo the stop at Johnston in route and relative high speed had to transit to area at, thus the 7.5 knots advance was slower than would have preferred.

At 0914 on 28 November a SD contact was made at 14000 yards. Submerged to avoid and surfaced at 1035. A SD contact was made at 1200, forcing NAUTILUS to submerged again. Remained submerged for rest of the day, surfaced at dusk.

29 November- 8 December was uneventful, other than severe storms 2-4 December. Arrived Johnston Atoll on 8 December topped off fuel. Soon after departing Johnston ran into storms which slowed headway.

At 1104 on 10 December at 19-0 N 160-0 W 200 NM SSW of Pearl Harbor, SD made a contact at 12000 yards. A PBY was soon in view, exchanged recognition signals but aircraft made a bank and dive (friendly fire mod) at NAUTILUS, forcing us to dive. As NAUTILUS passed 100 feet, multiple explosions went off, one close shook the boat and caused air line and piping leaks in conning tower and control room. Leveled at 150 feet with a few choice words for patrol planes mistaking US for a enemy submarine.

At 1300 surfaced and continued on and at 1401 SJ made two contacts, bearing 030 21000 yards. Two DD were spotted at 1441 and NAUTILUS cautiously approached. At 1414 the DD's were observed closing at high speed and at 1418, they opened fire ! (friendly fire mod) NAUTLUS submerged. The DD's closed in and began pinging. NAUTILUS rigged for silent running and depth charge.

NAUTILUS was hunted and depth charged for eleven hours total by our own forces just 200 miles from Pearl Harbor. Minor damage was suffered but NAUTILUS was forced to 385 feet to get away.

Surfaced at 0400 11 December cautiously moved through area with SJ contacts at 9000 and 11000 yards. Storms swept through area on 11 December preventing approaching the harbor. At 0800 12 December, entered Pearl Harbor, docking at 0900 precisely, terminated patrol.

SHIPS SUNK

No enemy ships encountered on this patrol.

SPECIAL MISSION

Successful. All Marines and supplies landed ashore as ordered.

REMARKS

Found this interesting as this was first time in campaign have been attacked near Pearl by friendly fire ships.

Should be noted that in reality, on 24 November 1943 off Abemama Atoll on this patrol(same assignment as I had in the sim) , NAUTILUS was hit in conning tower by friendly fire from the destroyer USS Ringgold DD-500 (Fletcher Class), which hit her, sending a five inch shell through conning tower, damaging the main induction valve.

Interesting patrol and enjoying the revamped special missions, not generic and boring as before.

KaleunMarco

02-16-22, 08:19 PM

Bubblehead1980

02-16-22, 11:19 PM

depth charge attack in the vicinity of Palau, mid-1943. Playing FOTRSU 1.7.
i forget what depth we were at...prob near 200 ft and below the therm when we heard the DC launch, at which time i ordered a course change and more depth. the enemy guessed correctly at our depth but then sent a s#itpot full of DC much deeper at the same time as the DC in the screenshot. thankfully, those missed us.

https://i.ibb.co/njBgkVQ/SH4-Img-2022-02-16-18-14-43-759.png
https://i.ibb.co/pfnYwYF/SH4-Img-2022-02-16-18-14-45-409.png

Yikes lol . My most recent patrol in Narwhal, Feb 1944 off Palau, they put a pattern down, glad I had the cam off , it was bad inside, they were close. Don't recall boat shaking that way before and my topside was wrecked when surfaced, JP sonar head mounted on deck damaged beyond repair, etc. Forward deck and AA guns not functional, periscopes damage, real mess. I was at 370 ft.

Bubblehead1980

02-18-22, 01:23 AM

TMO Update BH V2.0
Donation Narwhal
100 difficult, cams and contacts off.

War Patrol Report
USS Nautilus SS-168
War Patrol TEN
24 January- 13 March 1944

PROLOGUE

Returned to Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. from War Patrol NINE on 12 December 1943, a special mission in support of the invasion of the Gilbert Islands. Conducted normal repair and refit for upcoming patrol. After three special missions in a row, NAUTILUS was assigned to a dedicated anti-shipping patrol in area CORN FIELD in the Philippine Sea, North of Palau. A mixed load of torpedoes were procured for this patrol. Forward torpedo room had eight of the MK 14-1A torpedoes with improved MK contact exploder, as well as six MK 23-1 torpedoes with the improved exploder as well. Aft torpedo room had four MK 18-1 electric torpedoes, and two MK 14-1A torpedoes with improved exploder as well. All torpedoes loaded on 23 January. Received word would be transferred to Australia in order to support operations in the Philippines , and thus would end this upcoming patrol in Brisbane. Ready for sea 24 January 1944.

NARRATIVE

Departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 0900 24 January and set course for Midway where would top off fuel prior to proceeding to assigned area. Conducted various drills en route to Midway over next few days and maintained a 14.5 knot speed of advanced.

Arrived Midway 0900 28 January and docked at sub tender for fuel top off, departing at 1400. Exited the reef and proceeded on course 255 a near strait line to assigned area some 3,200 nautical miles away. In order to conserve fuel, transit to area was made at 8 knots on the surface, diving as required.

At 0001 on 3 February, when NAUTILUS was approximately 250 nautical miles North of Wake Island, received ULTRA stating enemy submarine would arrive Wake Island between 0800-1200 4 January and to intercept. Proceeded to Wake Island, arriving off the channel to the North at 0400, making SJ contact with island at 29000 yards. Submerged ten miles north of Wake Island and conduct patrol. Sound soon contacts a small PC type boat which came out and swept the approaches to the channel, indicating expected arrival. At 0830 NAUTILUS had to 300 feet and rig for silent running to avoid the PC, which soon meandered about and clear area.

Sound reported possible submarine contact bearing 010 at 0900.. Rose periscope depth and soon spotted a surfaced submarine bearing 005 8000 yards. Went to General Quarters-Torpedo and began approach, turning off track to bring the stern tubes, loaded with MK 18 electric (wakeless ) torpedoes, to bear.0911 observation showed a Japanese I-Class Submarine on course 170 at 10.5 knots. Tubes were made ready to fire, set for a depth of 5 feet.

Torpedo Attack No.1

Fired tubes 5,6, from range of 1800 yards at 0914 and at 0916, both torpedoes hit the submarine, causing a massive series of secondary explosions. Submarine, on fire from amidships forward, sank less than 40 seconds. Went to 200 feet to depart area and avoid a PC closing on area.

Surfaced at dark and proceeded on course to assigned area.

February 5-10 was uneventful, en route patrol area. On February 11, and 12, forced to submerged twice each day to avoid long range air patrols (MAVIS /EMILY sighted) Transited North of Saipan on the 12/13th and into the Philippine Sea. On 14 February as passed through area FLOWER BED at position 15-20N 137-30E , spotted a surfaced submarine believed to be of Gato Class, but was unable but lost visual and SJ contact. Believing she submerged turned opposite direction and departed at flank speed, just in case.

At 0030 on 15 February arrived in assigned area (CORN FIELD). Submerged twice on 16 February to avoid SD contacts.

17 February

Torpedo Attack No.2

At 0748, SJ contacts bearing 006 27,545 yards,. position 15-50 N 132-30 E
APR-1 detected radar emissions same bearing as SJ contact.
Increased speed to close, and with rapid range/bearing changes and failure to close, along with radar emissions, deducted target was high speed vessel.

At 0831, spotted large warship, identified as a CA, possibly Takao Class. One DD escorting, on course 205 degrees at 21 knots. Unable to outpace the ship or keep up due to NAUTILUS's 17 knots max surface speed, readied torpedoes on low power setting for long range shot, depth eight feet.

At 0848 fired tubes 1,2,3,4 7800 yards, but at 0856 all torpedoes missed. CA took slight course change after launch, which opened range and changed angle, pushing target just out of reach of torpedoes max 9000 yard range.

Continued pursuit but the CA (now identified as Takao Class) pulled out of visual range and raced ahead. NAUTILUS continued shadowing to get visual at dawn and send up to date contact reports, hope for zig towards for another shot.

Torpedo Attack No. 3

However, all was not lost as not long after losing contact with the Takao CA, atSJ made contact bearing 288 27000 yards at 1016. PPI showed disposition of a northbound convoy. Turned to course 095 to intercept.

Submerged for attack at 1115 and conducted approach on seven ship, three escort convoy. At 1138 fired two MK 18 electric torpedoes from tubes 5,6,, which hit the DAIKOKU MARU (7590 tons) amidships. Escorts closing, went to 300 feet, rigged silent running and depth charge. Multiple explosions and other sounds were heard of the vessel sinking at 1144.
Escorts came in and delivered a brief depth charge attack, losing NAUTILUS as leveled off at 350 feet. However, they remained in area to prevent from surfacing.

Torpedo Attack No. 4

NAUTILUS finally surfaced at 1900 and proceeded to regain contact which did at 2044. However, as was passing the port flank of convoy at 2344 for end around, APR-1 detected radar signals and soon a DD identified as Akatsuki Class peeled off at high speed. NAUTILUS turned away but had no hope outrunning the destroyer.

At 0101 fired tube 5 (MK 14-1A) from 3800 yards in a "down the throat " shot on the surface and prepared to dive. Torpedo hit target, but did not get the expected explosion, possible dud warhead. The DD however, did slow and turn away briefly before coming back at NAUTILUS. NAUTILUS submerged to 300 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge. The Akatsuki was heard leaving the area, as another escort arrived, pinging, searching, dropping multiple DC patterns in area, none close.

Torpedo Attack No. 4A

NAUTILUS surfaced at 0235 and began another attempt at end around. However, soon the enemy radar was buzzing and again detected NAUTILUS, as two escorts rushed back our way. Again turned away and fired a down the throat shot, yet again on the Akatsuki DD from 4100 yards on surface. The torpedo hit, but with same result as last time. However, Akatsuki did slow, she was hurt. NAUTILUS submerged to avoid the second escort, as fast moving subchaser type as well as a SD contact. Apparently a night flyer had been called in.

Secured GQ and remained on silent running while escorts hunted area. Finally able to surface at 0800. Attempted end around to regain contact, but multiple aircraft prevented this. At 1234 while on surface, SD failed to detected incoming aircraft, which seemingly appeared out of no where and bombed NAUTILUS, fortunately her bombs fell short to the port side , no damage. Submerged and remained submerged for remainder of the day.
18-19 February were uneventful with some storms passing through the area.

20 February

Torpedo Attack No. 5

Made SJ contact on convoy at 1844 bearing 240 26000 yards. Set intercept course and at 2040 spotted smoke of eight ships, two escort convoy on course 025. Submerged at 2050 for attack.

Approaching target, spotted a SANRAKU MARU tanker of 3016 in column on
opposite side of convoy but with the spacing decided could fire through with
a solid chance of hits on the tanker. At 2107 fired spread of three MK 14-1A torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3 from 1700 yards and upon impact of first torpedo, tanker, erupted in massive fireball, second and third hits increased the conflagration, no doubt fueled by volatile northbound fuel oil. Tanker sunk at 2109.

Selected a large AK similar to MIIKE MARU of 11800 tons and fired tube no 4 as ideal set up presented itself. Torpedo hit and set off a massive chain reaction explosion, toppling masts and causing the large AK to list. With escorts closing, went deep rigged for silent running and depth charge. Soon heard the maru breaking up and sinking at 2116.

Depth charge attack which followed was prolonged and brutal, but believe thermal layer and heavy chop of seas protected NAUTILUS to a large degree. Lost sound contact at 0200 and surfaced at 0300, attempted to regain contact but unable. 21-27 February were uneventful as patrolled area searching, aside from diving to avoid occasional patrol aircraft.

28 February

Torpedo Attack No. 6

At 1104 SJ contact bearing 177 25000 yards turned into another northbound convoy. Repeated zigs made approaching target difficult but finally was able to submerged for attack at 1345. At 1418 from range of 1000 yards fired three MK 23 torpedoes at MADRAS MARU 3800 tons. All three hit and AK quickly slipped beneath the waves at 1421.

Two escorts closed in and although had initial trouble locating NAUTILUS, their search paid off and pinging began at 1454 NAUTILUS was shaken violently many times but no damaged. Finally, a close depth charge, likely below the amidships/control room caused heavy damage. (see damage section. Most serious of which is apparently destroyed bottles which contain compressed air reserve. Some minor flooding in control room was reported as well. The depth charge attack persisted for five hours until lost contact at 2059.

29 February

Torpedo Attack No. 7

NAUTILUS, struggled, but managed to surface at 2200 to assess her situation. Fortunately, compressor was intact and able to produce some air into reserves, although a limited amount. Although damage, it was decided could mount a surface attack with last three MK 23 torpedoes and proceeded on pursuit course. Contact was regained at 0031 and pulled ahead of convoy, closing from starboard. Convoy was on course 330 at 8 knots. Slightly illuminated by the faint sliver of moon lowering over the horizon.

Spotted a large AK believed to be 7000 ton HIYAMA MARU. At 0054 fired Tubes 1,2,3 (MK 23-1 torpedoes) from 2500 yards on surface. All three torpedoes hit, crippling the freighter. NAUTILUS came under heavy gunfire from damaged AK and her cohorts while swinging, away but no hits were scored. Star shells and spotlights illuminated our stern as raced away under fire, and both escorts were closing fast. Merchants soon ceased fire as lost visual but one DE type escort astern fired several times before ceasing, apparently losing contact. Not wanting to dive unless forced, continued on surface. Soon both escorts converged and began dropping depth charges, convinced we had submerged, as NAUTILUS slipped into the night.

With all torpedoes expended, set course for Brisbane, passing East of Palau, West of of Admiralty Islands and East of New Guinea through the Vitiaz Strait. NAUTILUS opted not to stop at Milne Bay for fuel as had enough to reach Brisbane. Transited the Jomard Passage, spotting a Australian DD after exiting at 0800 9 March.

At 1726 on 9 March 135 NM South of Jomard Passage at 13-17S 152-27E,
SD made contact at 15000 yards. Believing contact to be friendly given location, did no submerged. However, lookouts soon spotting a large four engine flying boat, believed to be a EMILY, closing fast. Ordered dive. As passed 70 feet, heard plane roar above but no bombs were dropped. Possibly a recon patrol from Rabaul. Remained submerged until dusk, the surfaced and continued on to Brisbane.

10- March was uneventful as transited to Brisbane. Rendezvoused with Australian DD escort outside Moreton Bay entrance, navigated the minefield (new feature in V2.0, always a escort to show player the way through the minefield) at 0830 13 March. Docked at Brisbane at 0955 , terminated war patrol.

SHIPS SUNK

I-Class Submarine 1800b tons

AK DAITOKU MARU 7590 tons

AO SANRAKU MARU 3000 tons

AK MIIKE MARU 11800 tons

AK MADRAS MARU 3790 tons

AK HIYAMA MARU 7145 tons

Total tonnage sunk for patrol: 35,239 tons.

SHIPS DAMAGED

DD Akatsuki Class 2000+ tons

MAJOR DAMAGE AND DEFECTS

February 29 1944 Depth Charge Attack

All damage repaired at sea unless otherwise noted.

1.Compressed air banks severely damaged. Limited to just 12 percent of normal capacity for remainder of patrol.

2.Compressor

3.Trim Pump

4. Hydraulic pumps

5. Piping leaks

6. High pressure air line leaks

7. Flooding- Control Room-minor.

8. Busted light bulbs and glass fixtures throughout the boat.

CASUALTIES

CTM H.B. Bell, USN. (Chief of the Boat) injured in control room by depth charge. Recovered.

S1c V.D. Pitt suffered severe combat fatigue during/after depth charge attack of 28 February. Detached for treatment.

ANTI SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Enemy appears to use using a more powerful depth charge that encountered on past patrols. Heavier charge appears to have a improved sink rate, providing less time to get out from under a pattern when dropped. Believe charge has a improved exploder permitting increased depth setting as well.

Enemy escorts, especially full fledge destroyers seem to regularly equipped with radar now.

Evasion was conducted by course, speed, and depth variations. Operation below thermal layers when available assisted in evasion as well. NAUTILUS reached a depth of 395 feet to evade enemy. A strong pattern above pushed the boat to 400 feet at one point.

REMARKS

A successful but challenging and busy patrol. This was NAUTILUS's first dedicated anti shipping patrol since early 1943 and first engagement with enemy vessels since May 1943, as three previous patrols were all dedicated special missions, along with a overhaul period in summer 1943.

While still a capable vessel, improved enemy equipment and tactics revealed NAUTILUS's age, vulnerability, she is not as well suited for front line anti-shipping operations compared to newer boats. However, in spite of this a impressive number of ships, including a enemy submarine and valuable tanker were sunk on this patrol.

W.D. Irvin

ConvoyHunting

02-18-22, 05:03 AM

Great reports, as usual ! :Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

02-18-22, 12:50 PM

Great reports, as usual ! :Kaleun_Salute:

Thanks:Kaleun_Salute:

Sammy-rai

02-20-22, 06:13 AM

My first SH4 command, the SS One Punch, firing its main gun at a merchant ship we torpedoed 1 hour earlier that would just not sink.

The first time we surfaced only about 150 yds away, which was a mistake since it opened fire on us before we could load the main gun.

The One Punch then positioned itself a mile away and began shelling the freighter. After about 10 shots we hit it and the stubborn freighter gave up the ghost.

Bubblehead1980

02-20-22, 03:35 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH V2.0
Donation Narwhal mod
100 difficulty, cams/contacts off

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL ELEVEN
20 May- 11 June 1944

PROLOGUE

Arrived at Brisbane, Australia from TENTH War Patrol on 13 March 1944. Although successful with five ships and one enemy
submarine sunk, NAUTILUS suffered serious damage, namely compressed air reserve banks destroyed, limited to just twelve percent of normal capacity. Moderate hull damage was also discovered in post patrol inspection. Repairs
were conducted at Brisbane. On 18 April CDR G.A. Sharp, USN, relieved CDR W.D. Irvin, USN, as Commanding Officer.

Repairs completed by 10 May. On 12 May departed Brisbane for training run off Moreton Bay including dive, torpedo
fire control, gunnery (mock and live fire), and emergency drills. Twenty MK 23-1 torpedoes loaded on 18-19 May along with provisions.
Ready for sea 20 May 1944.

NARRATIVE

20 May

In accordance with Commander Task Force 72 Operation Order 463-44, departed Brisbane at 1430 for Darwin, Australia via passage of of Torres Strait and Arafura Sea.

1537 rendezvoused with Australian PC for escort through the minefield to exit Moreton Bay.

1630 Exited Moreton Bay, escorted remained with until dusk. Remained on course 010 14.5 knots to round Sandy Cape.

21-27 May

En route Darwin. Transited Torres Strait on 25 May.

28 May

Entered Van Diemen Gulf at 0700 en route Darwin.

1330 Docked at Darwin.

Unloaded 14 torpedoes and all torpedo handling gear. Loaded 192,000 tons of cargo for special mission.

29 May

0600 In accordance with orders from Commander Seventh Fleet, Lieutenant (jg) John S. SIMMON44S, D-V (G) ,USNR reported aboard for temporary additional duty and transportation to TUGURAN, MINDANAO. TO make room for cargo and passengers, 14 MK 23-1 torpedoes and torpedo handling equipment unloaded. Maintained four in forward tubes, two in aft. 0632 Underway from Darwin, Australia with Commander Tsk Group 71.1 Secret Operation Order 67-44.

1530 conducted trim dive, surfaced 1545.

30 May

En route to conduct special mission.

31 May

1300 Entered Ceram Sea, North of Buru en route to destination.

1644 SJ Contacts bearing 330 26544 yards. Multiple pips, determined to be convoy. Closed at best speed to send contact report and not disrupt transit to special mission per orders.

1700 PPI indicated 8-9 ships with two escorts, one forward, one rear. Convoy on course 060 8.5 knots.

1900 Close enough for accurate contact report sent.

Contact Report
Convoy Sighted at 20-40 S 126-30E
Course 060 8.5 knots.
Nine AK, two SC/DE
Ships in two spaced columns.

1915 Reply to contact report received. Ordered to X ATTACK X
Opted to continue to shadow ahead until dark for night surface attack.

2010 Convoy zigged, changed course to 020, adjusting course as well.

2100 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

2150 3000 yards off starboard side of convoy track. Sighted 5000 + ton freighter in middle of column.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

2200 Fired tubes 1,3,4,.

2202:05 Torpedo impact!

2202:10 Torpedo impact!

2202:16 Torpedo Impact!

2202:25 Large fires erupted on AK, large hole visible at waterline.

220230 Star shells and search lights illuminating area as NAUTILUS turned away at best speed. Several of the merchants spotted us and opened fire with machine guns and deck guns, some splashes were somewhat close.
Both escorts were observed pouring on the coals and heading for our position.

Merchants ceased fire as lost sight of NAUTILUS in the night. Escorts continued rushing onward. However, they both soon lost contact with NAUTILUS in the dark night after about a ten minute chase. One escort closed to within 4000 yards but fortunately in the dark of night , did not sight NAUTILUS as made a gradual turn off her path, she eventually rushed on by at about 3000 yards, our stern pointing toward her with out doors on stern tubes open, just in case.
__________________________________________________ _________

FIRE CONTROL DATA TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 (at firing)

TYPE Night Surface

Conditions Calm seas, low visibility, no moon.

SHIPS SUNK

AK AKAMA MARU 5425 tons.
2-24 S 126-41 E.
1944/05/31
2214

TARGET NO. 1

AK AKAMA MARU
RANGE 3000 yards
BEARING 010
TRUE BEARING 154
AOB 88 P
COURSE 020
SPEED 8 kts

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 23-1
SERIAL NO.145542
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO. 11041
GYRO 354 L
COURSE 138
TRACK 114
METHOD Constant bearing
SPREAD 0
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT, Forward, Aft masts
DEPTH 10 FT
POWER STANDARD
HIT [X] Yes No [ ]
POI Amidships under stack
ACTUATION Contact
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK None

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 23-1
SERIAL NO.145543
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO. 11043
GYRO 354 L
COURSE 138
TRACK 114
METHOD Constant bearing
SPREAD 0
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT, Forward mast
DEPTH 10 FT
POWER STANDARD
HIT [X] Yes No [ ]
POI Forward mast
ACTUATION Contact
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK None

TUBE NO. 4
TYPE MK 23-1
SERIAL NO.145546
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO. 11048
GYRO 354 L
COURSE 138
TRACK 114
METHOD Constant bearing
SPREAD 0
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT, Aft mast
DEPTH 10 FT
POWER STANDARD
HIT [X] Yes No [ ]
POI Aft mast
ACTUATION Contact
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK None

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH Surface
COURSE 130
SPEED 2 kts
SEAS Calm

__________________________________________________ _________

2245 Secured General Quarters, continued on to special mission.

1-3 June

En route special mission via Molucca and Celebes Seas.

4 June

0600 Entered Moro Bay off Mindanao in approach to Illano Bay to reconnoiter for special mission on 5 June. Outline of Mindanao visible on horizon in morning haze visible.

0700 SJ made contact bearing 030 16000 yards, single pip. Appeared to be a patrol vessel. Submerged and cleared.

0740 Sound reports warship contact closing fast. Went to periscope depth from 100 feet, observed auxiliary type subchaser with a zero AOB, heavily smoking from stack heading for NAUTILUS location. At this point, were unsure if had been detected or if on routine patrol, but ordered 300 ft and rigged for silent running, depth charge.

0800 Sounds of vessel passing above, followed by splashes. Several depth charge explosions rocked NAUTILUS, real tooth shakers.

Strangely enough, there was no pinging, but this vessel, assuming without active sonar, had excellent sound gear and operator(s) as she stayed with us through maneuvers and depth changes.

At 0902, while at a depth of 340 ft, a very close depth charge explosion rocked the boat. Damage reported (See Damage Section) including flooding in forward torpedo room, which was quickly stopped by Damage Control party. Flooding was enough to throw the boat out of trim for some time.

As hours went on the attacks persisted, with several close charges between 1100-1200. NAUTILUS was at a depth of 355 feet. At noon, dropping of charges ceased for some time, but boat continued making passes and remaining no more than 2000 yards. Was thought perhaps was out of depth charges and awaiting assistance to arrive. NAUTILUS went through various maneuvers, depth changes, but was unable to shake this persistent subchaser.

At 1901, subchaser made a pass and dropped one depth charge, which fell astern due to speed burst made by NAUTILUS, then continued the stalk NAUTILUS, but not drop charges.

5 June

0100 Lost contact with the enemy, Remained rigged for silent running and continued on. At 0330, came to periscope depth, seas state had grown choppy as opposed to calm when we submerged nearly 24 hours ago. Visual observations detected nothing, at 0340 came to SJ radar depth. SJ had a pip just 5000 yards astern, not moving. Apparently the SC was listening, and heard us as just after SJ contact, his engines kicked on and his searchlight shined towards our scope. Ordered down scope and 350 ft depth, rigged again for depth charge.

Several charges exploded around us over 30-45 minutes but none close. The SC continued searching but failed to locate us, the heavy seas providing relief. Lost contact at 0530 and at 0630 with dawn approaching, low battery and nearly 24 hours submerged, came back to periscope, then radar depth. Subchaser was 8000 yards to port searching area Turned to being stern to bear, and surfaced. Put on flank speed and left the area to conduct repairs and recover.

SD contact forced NAUTILUS to submerge at noon and continued on a course back to Moro Bay, avoiding the same SC as it came into view at 1335 and 1901.

Surfaced at 2100 and began preparations for landing of personnel and cargo at TUGURAN, MINADNAO.

At 2130 as was entering Illano Bay, SJ contacted a pip, likely the SC in our path, went to GQ, increased to flank speed and avoided by a circular route which put as at the designated landing area at 2158, two minutes ahead of schedule. Friendly boats were spotted 1900 yards off shore and rendezvous was made. Deployed eight rubber boats total to go ashore.

6 June

0005 Special mission completed. Set course for Darwin as ordered.

7-10 June

En route Darwin

11 June

Arrived Darwin at 1000 hours. Rearmed, loaded cargo and passengers for next patrol. Ready for sea 12 June.

__________________________________________________ _________

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL TWELVE
12 June- 28 June 1944

PROLOGUE

Returned from War Patrol ELEVEN 11 June 1944. Refueled, replaced three torpedoes fire, conducted voyage and battle damage repairs possible in short order and loaded for special mission. Ready for sea 12 June.

NARRATIVE

12 June

0700 Received four enlisted men for transportation to NEGROS, Philippines.

1309 Underway in according with Secret Operation Order 74-44.

1800 Trim Dive.

1820 Surfaced.

13-16 June

En route special mission.

17 June

1800 Began transit of Sibutu Passage West of Tawi Tawi. SJ had two pips , first located bearing 040 25000 yards. Likely two DD's enemy uses to patrol strait reported by other boats. APR-1 detected radar emissions from contact bearing. NAUTILUS was able to avoid.

18 June

0400 Cleared Sibutu Pass, entered Sulu Sea en route area.

1300 SD contact 17000 yards, submerged to avoid closing aircraft.

1700 Surfaced

1835 Spotted fishing boat, possible japanese, avoided to prevent possibly alerting forces in area due to proximity to objective.

19 June

0914 Submerged to avoid SD contact, range 12000 yards.

1100 Surfaced.

20 June

0600 Submerged ten miles off NEGROS, PHILIPPINES to observe designated landing area.

Surfaced 2100 hours and prepared for special mission. Friendly boats spotted 1500 yards off shore. Began unloading cargo and personnel in rubber boats at 2200 precisely. A SJ contact was made at 2258,single pip closing area fast. NAUTILUS withdrew from coast and monitored a patrol gunboat type craft move along coast and depart area Moved back inshore to complete mission.

All boats deployed with cargo and passengers. 11 Passengers, including one German POW embarked for evacuation to Australia.

21 June

0011 Special Mission completed. Set course for Darwin.

1944 SD contact, submerged to avoid.

2041 Surfaced.

22 June

En route Darwin.

2000 Approached North end Sibutu Passage for transit south, increased speed to 16 knots.

TMO Update BH V.20
USS Nautilus SS-168

23 June

0421 About half through pass, SJ made contacts , two pips bearing 040 18000 yards. APR-1 detected radar emissions from same bearing. Attempted to open range but seems were detected, as pips were rapidly closing.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1

Unable to shake the, turned into closest contact and submerged at 6000 yards, would fire "down the throat" on the closest DD, hoping to make it one vs one. DD, believed to be of Fubuki Class or similar, closed at 30+ knots.

At 0444 fired tubes 1,2,3 "down the throat" of target at 650-600 yards, ordered 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running. Time for expected impact came, but no sound of explosions. DD roared overhead and let loose a pattern, real tooth shakers.

FIRE CONTROL DATA TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1 (at firing)

TYPE Night Surface

Conditions Calm seas, low visibility, no moon.

SHIPS SUNK

AK AKAMA MARU 5425 tons.
2-24 S 126-41 E.
1944/05/31
2214

TARGET NO. 1

DD Fubuki
RANGE 650-600yards
BEARING 0
TRUE BEARING 274
AOB 0 degrees
COURSE 090
SPEED 30 knots

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 23-1
SERIAL NO.145549
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO. 11048
GYRO 0
COURSE 293
TRACK 0
METHOD Constant bearing
SPREAD 0
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT, bow
DEPTH 3.5 FT
POWER STANDARD
HIT [ ] Yes No [X]
POI ---
ACTUATION Contact
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK None

TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 23-1
SERIAL NO.145560
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO. 11051
GYRO 0
COURSE 293
TRACK 0
METHOD Constant bearing
SPREAD 0
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT, bow
DEPTH 3.5 FT
POWER STANDARD
HIT [ ] Yes No [X]
POI ---
ACTUATION Contact
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK None

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 23-1
SERIAL NO.145571
EXPLODER MK 6-5
SERIAL NO. 11081
GYRO 0
COURSE 293
TRACK 0
METHOD Constant bearing
SPREAD 0
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT, bow
DEPTH 3.5 FT
POWER STANDARD
HIT [ ] Yes No [X]
POI ---
ACTUATION Contact
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK None

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 FT
COURSE 290
SPEED 2 kts
SEAS Calm
__________________________________________________ ________

Second DD roared above at 0450 and dropped pattern as well, close, boat shaken, air lines, piping began to leak. Aft battery reported damage.

NAUTILUS at depth of 395 feet, escorts maintained strong contact for some time.

0800 lost sound contact with enemy, believed both were "sleeping" listening.

0830 two new sound contacts, plus two others started up, four vessels in area, all warships. Believe assistance was called from Tawi Tawi to search for NAUTILUS.

1100 heard engines of one DD start up astern estimated 7000 yards.

1155, heard second DD start up and sweep area.

1214 Two random, large explosions close above. No vessel nearby, possible
aircraft.

1230 Warship contact nearby, passed above, then appear to slow, turned about and pinging began. This sounded like a lighter ASW type vessel vs the DD from earlier attack.

1234 Large pattern of depth charges dropped, all were above, no damage.

Two other contacts arrived in area but none located NAUTILUS.

1331 Lost sound contact.

2200 Periscope depth. All clear

2210 SJ depth, all cleared. Secured and surfaced.

2220 Position at south end of Sibutu Passage. Proceeded on to Darwin.

23- 27 June

En route to Darwin, uneventful.

28 June

1631 Arrived Darwin, Australia, terminated war patrol.

Bubblehead1980

02-21-22, 02:55 AM

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL THIRTEEN
30 June- 28 July 1944

PROLOGUE

Returned from War Patrol TWELVE to Darwin, Australia on 28 June 1944. Conducted voyage and damage repairs, refueled and began preparing for
next patrol, special mission, to commence 30 June. Eight MK 18-2 torpedoes were loaded (four forward tubes, aft tubes, two reserve). Began loading for special mission on
29 June. Ready for sea 30 June

30 June 1944

1832 Underway in accordance with Secret Operation Order 82-44, underway to transport 22 men under LCDR George F. Rowe, USNR, along with gear and supplies for transportion to
Mindoro, Philippines.

1-4 July

En route special mission.

6 July

0900 Submerged south of Sibutu Passage, on surface

1904 Surfaced to transit Sibutu Passage through the night.

1910 Storms set in during transit.

7-12 July

En route to special mission via Sulu Sea

12 July

1900 Arrived Mindoro Strait.

13 July

0700 Submerged to reconnoiter in daylight of landing area at BABAYAN POINT, MINDORO.

0730 First of many patrols contacted throughout day in Mindoro Strait area.

2100 Landing sight unsuitable, several small boats anchored nearby. Ordered via radio to proceed to alternate landing site SAN ROQUE, MINDANAO,
conduct operations 2200 hours 14 July

2200 Received message from COMSUBSOWESPAC, RAY (SS-271) will transit near our position en route her patrol area between 0000-0800 14 July.

14 July

0528 Sighted RAY at 12-12N 120-46 E 7000 yards. Exchanged rec signals.

0600 Submerged 10 miles off Mindanao.

2100 Surfaced, prepared for special mission.

2200 Conducted special mission, landed cargo and personnel via rubber boat at SAN ROQUE, MINDANADO.

2350 Mission Completed.

15 July

0015 ULTRA received regarding two tankers departing Coron for Subic Bay 0600 15 August. Ordered to conduct coordinated attack with RAY in Mindoro Strait.

0400 Received message, RAY would cover North end of Mindoro Strait, NAUTILUS was to cover central portion.

0600 Submerged for patrol.

1354 Detected distant props on sound bearing 290

1400 Radar depth. SJ contacts bearing 297 range 23250 yards.

1401 General Quarters

1418 Surfaced to pull ahead.

1425 Convoy zigged to NW toward NAUTILUS.

1428 Submerged for attack.

1446 Sighted convoy. Two AO, four escort course 290 12 knots.

1450 Convoy zigged to SW throwing NAUTILUS out of position. Went to 250 ft, closed at flank speed to
close.

1503 Periscope depth. Convoy on course 265 12 knots. NAUTILUS 3300 yards off track.
Identified two AO...KIKUSUI MARU 3500 tons leading, followed by DAISHIN MARU 5150 tons.
Targeted DAISHIN MARU

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

1505 Bow tubes readied for firing. Depth set to 8 ft. MK 18-2 torpedoes in all tubes.

1507 Fired tubes 1,2,3,4 2900 yards.

1510 Torpedoes missed! Convoy zigged to starboard after firing, causing torpedoes to miss ahead (based on sound information)

1512 Pinging. Ordered 300 ft. rigged depth charge, silent running.

1515 Short scale pinging. Enemy closing in.

1516 Escort above. DC splashes. DC explosions above.

1517 More DC explosions, boat shaken.

1527 Close DC explosions. Damage reported

1745 Escorts moved on, one remained behind hunting, dropping charges.

1840 Escort visible astern 11000 yards, chanced it, surfaced undetected and moved ahead at high speed for end round.
All bow torpedoes expended, but four remain in stern torpedo room. Secured GQ

1845 Explosions heard and smoke visible in distance, likely result of attack by RAY in north end of strait.

1940 SJ noted two additional pips in area, possible patrol vessels assisting convoy escorts.

2000 Convoy zigged west towards NAUTILUS. Awaiting night fall for surface torpedo attack.

Expected word from RAY, none as of yet. APR-1 detected radar emissions from bearing 210.

2050 Nightfall. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

2100 Lost contact with convoy.

16 July

0026 Regained SJ contact bearing 002 26200 yards.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2

0100 Convoy zigged to NE, apparently heading for Verde Island Passage as expected. Several pips are missing, including one in center, possible
RAY sunk one of the tankers, or even escorts.

0110 Convoy report sent. Convoy on course 040 11 knots. 13-29 N 120-03 E

0134 Tubes 5,6, made ready depth 4 ft. (seas calm).

0135 Fired tubes 5,6 3000 yards.

0138 Both torpedoes hit target. Massive explosion of loaded tanker.

0139 Escort chasing down NAUTILUS, pulling ahead, barely. Stern tubes being reload with last two fish.

0141 Received message from RAY. Inviting to conduct joint attack in Verde Island passage.
Did not mention if sunk other tanker. With two torpedoes aboard, decided to end around north of Lubang Island to enter the pass

0200 Lone pip nearby bearing 240 investigating.

0215 Pip is Etorofu type escort. Turned to course 350 flank speed for end round Lubang Island.

0220 Secured GQ.

0500 Sighted RAY in Verde Island passage bearing 290 8000 yards.

0701 SJ contacts bearing 27,950 yards.

0703 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED

0704 Three pips in "triangle" formation.

0706 APR-1 detected radar signals from bearing 007.

0710 Submerged for attack at dawn.

0715 Detected RAY on sound. Appears in position to attack from starboard side. NAUTILUS will attack from port

0721 Periscope depth, aircraft spotted bearing 244 9000 yards.

0722 Aircraft made low pass dropped bombs or depth charges. Aircraft spotted RAY.

0731 Contacts are remaining escorts from convoy (Two Type A Etorofu, one Type D Escort) closing on RAY's position, alerted by aircraft.
Closing contacts to assist RAY. Appears the DAISHIN MARU tanker and one escort attack by RAY sunk.

Torpedo Attack No. 3

0751 Fired tube 5 range 3400 yards. Target course 350 17 knots.

0752 Observed lead escort drop depth charge pattern near RAY's location.

0753 Another pattern of charges exploded.

0756 Torpedo missed. Believe target slowed as approached area.

0804 Observation. One Type A Etorofu appears to be sinking by stern and on fire likely hit by torpedo from RAY.

Escorts continue to lay patterns of charges. NAUTILUS closing via stern to utilize last torpedo.

0813 Observation. Type D escort bearing 175 2350 yards. Closing. Readied tube No.6 with final torpedo. MK 18-2

0816 Pinging.

0820 fired down the the throat shot 600 yards

0821 Ordered 300 ft. rigged silent running, depth charge. Can hear other escorts depth charging RAY

0823 Enemy passed above. Depth charges, large pattern.

0824 Many explosions., boat shaken, severely. Leaks in air lines and piping in conning tower.

0826 Large pattern. Many explosions boat shaken.

0829 Large DC pattern, explosions heard astern, Most likely escorts attacking RAY.

1101 Last depth charge explosion heard astern. Two of three escorts departed area high speed.

1130 Periscope depth. Escort 8000 yards astern, laying to, listening. Believe they lost contact with RAY.

1212 Secured GQ. Returned to 365 ft. Maintained Silent Running on course 280 to depart the passage.

1331 Sound picked up light fast, and slow heavy prop noises well astern in the pass. Came to periscope depth.
At about 9000 yards, spotted a damaged tanker, low in water, heavy list. Type D escort about 900 yards ahead sweeping.
Tanker believed to be DAISHIN MARU 5150 tons, heavily damaged by RAY in previous attack. Likely figured for casualty and was left behind with one escort
while the KIKUSUI MARU other tanker made the run for port. Out of torpedoes , NAUTILUS was unable to attack.
Returned to 350 ft, continued departure from area.

2020 Periscope Depth

2025 Radar depth.

2030 Surfaced. Set course for Fremantle, Australia.

16-17 July

En route Fremantle

18 July

1900 Began night time transit of Balabac Strait. During transit, seas increased to heavy swells and a thick fog descended rather rapidly, making for a challenging transit of the
strait.

19 July

0000 Weather cleared just before midnight. Eastern exit of the strait, turned to course 130 for Sibutu Pass.

20 July

0000 Transited Sibutu Pass southbound.

21- July

En route Fremantle.

22 July

1700 Submerged 30 NM North of Lombok Strait until dusk for transit.

2011 Surfaced. Went ahead full for southbound transit Lombok Strait through the night.

2117 SJ contact, single pip. Bearing 034 22000 yards. Likely North end patrol. Evaded.

2338 SJ contact single pip bearing 008 23655 yards. Likely central patrol, appeared to be in center of strait.

2344 Second pip detected with 2338 contact. Evaded both at 8000 yards.

23 July

0011 SJ contact bearing 323 24500 yards. Appeared to be south end patrol.

0132 Cleared South end of Lombok Strait. Set course 195 to Fremantle.

24-27 July

En route Fremantle

28 July

1035 Docked Fremantle, Australia. Terminated war patrol.

SHIPS SUNK

AO KINKUISI MARU
3500 tons
07/15/1944

SPECIAL MISSION

Completed at alternate location due to enemy presence. Mission Successful.

DAMAGE AND DEFECTS

1. Forward Deck Gun

2. Radio Receiver

3. No. 2 Periscope

4. JP Sonar Head (Deck Mount)

5. Hydraulic Pumos

6. Piping throughout boat

7. High Pressure Air lines throughout the boat.

8. Main Induction jarred.

9. Light and glass fixtures throughout boat.

10. No. 3 Electric Motor was heavily damaged in Depth charge attack No. 1, remained noisy throughout.

11. Batteries would not charge beyond 97 percent after depth charge attack number 2.

REMARKS

The coordinated attack with USS RAY SS-271 on 15 July was quite effective, with one confirmed sunk and another severely damaged (initially thought sunk),
possibly sunk as still has some ways to go before reaching port, and a escort likely sunk. NAUTILUS would have loved another try, but was out of torpedoes, due to only having eight
aboard to make room for cargo and passengers.

Enemy ASW has improved and seems to get better each time NAUTILUS goes out. Unusual for a patrol, Commanding Officer was able to watch via periscope
the depth charge attack on RAY by three escort vessels. They worked as a team, taking turns attempting to box the submarine in. One would periodically stop to listen while others moved about.

The TYPE D escort vessels carry quite a few charges and if so inclined may lay quite the impressive pattern.

Screenshots

I had external cam off (like usual) on this run but got some decent shots.

https://i.postimg.cc/y8XQmp15/battlearea.png (https://postimages.org/)

Area of action on this patrol. Landing men and supplies at Mindoro, then responding to ULTRA, attacked convoy in area with USS RAY.

https://i.postimg.cc/1tTJmLBg/dpethcharge1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Ray under depth charge attack. (could not see the nice splash on this once, must have caught it too late)

https://i.postimg.cc/s2gcpV0Q/emilyattackingsub.png (https://postimages.org/)

'Emily' flying boat attacking submerged AI sub (USS RAY) on morning of 16 July in Verde Island Pass. Raised scope for observation and saw the plane flying quite low over water, dropped bombs/charges.
Alerted the oncoming escorts(survivors of convoy attack) which came in and attacked.

https://i.postimg.cc/ZYGV1z02/escort-smoking.png (https://postimages.org/)

Escort smoking after being torpedoed by RAY. Believe it later sunk, as last I saw I, was down by stern in water and burning.

https://i.postimg.cc/4NpBG29d/escort-smoking1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Escort smoking after being torpedoed by RAY. Believe it later sunk, as last I saw I, was down by stern in water and burning.

https://i.postimg.cc/y8PjgJnC/escort-smoking2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Escort smoking after being torpedoed by RAY. Believe it later sunk, as last I saw I, was down by stern in water and burning.

https://i.postimg.cc/YSrXbNjS/escortbinocnight.png (https://postimages.org/)

Escort from aft end of Nautilus bridge during night surface attack. Range is about 3500 yards.

https://i.postimg.cc/x1Yg1GvP/escortclose1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Close escort, was attacking RAY, turn for NAUTILUS as crept close, took some attention off other sub.

https://i.postimg.cc/xCW3DLjM/radar1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Random shot of radar. I hate how the smiley face shows up when hit the screenshot button lol

https://i.postimg.cc/NG9dJjGR/Raymorning1.png (https://postimages.org/)

RAY spotted as it transited our area of operations July 14 1944.

https://i.postimg.cc/CLpscCQV/smlokingescortafterhit.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/V6SWVKwz/sternleavingarea.png (https://postimages.org/)

Racing away after sinking tanker.

https://i.postimg.cc/bvVRgKK6/tanker1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Tanker through binoculars , looking aft on bridge, before firing torpedoes, range about 3500 yards

https://i.postimg.cc/ZYdLPsjc/tankerblow1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Tanker full of oil/gas always explode nice. The second torpedo was redundant in this case, torpedo instantly set off the explosion.

https://i.postimg.cc/t42dRKCX/tankerblow2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Tanker full of oil/gas always explode nice. The second torpedo was redundant in this case, torpedo instantly set off the explosion.

https://i.postimg.cc/dtRmp7bZ/tankerblow3.png (https://postimages.org/)

Tanker full of oil/gas always explode nice. The second torpedo was redundant in this case, torpedo instantly set off the explosion.

https://i.postimg.cc/fymjwkkF/tankerburning.png (https://postimages.org/)

Tanker full of oil/gas always explode nice. The second torpedo was redundant in this case, torpedo instantly set off the explosion.

https://i.postimg.cc/P5tzjXH3/tankerfireburnsurface1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Oil from tanker burning after sinking.

https://i.postimg.cc/cJCRvFrf/tankersinking.png (https://postimages.org/)

Tanker down by stern sinking.

https://i.postimg.cc/DzNqL1XH/ussray1.png (https://postimages.org/)

USS RAY SS-271 (GATO CLASS)

Bubblehead1980

02-23-22, 02:42 AM

TMO Update BH V.20
Donation Narwhal Mod
100 difficulty
Cams off, Contacts on

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL FOURTEEN
5 SEPTEMBER-5 OCTOBER 1944

NARRATIVE

5 September

Departed Fremantle, Australia at 0730 for Darwin, Australia to load cargo and passengers for special mission, in company with MINGO SS-261. Orders specified to conduct sighting and fire control drills with MINGO as she transited to Exmouth Gulf to top off prior to going on patrol, where as NAUTILUS would part company and continue on to Darwin.

After clearing the area conducted trim dive, then proceeded maintaining cruising speed of 15.5 knots with MINGO in sight at six nautical miles.

6-7 September

Conducted sighting drills with MINGO throughout night. At 1100 on 6 September, raced ahead of MINGO and and submerged. Conducted torpedo
fire control drill, considered a hit at 1145. Conducted similar drills on 7 September as well.

8 September 0330

MINGO turned to course 088 towards EXMOUTH GULF, signaled us X GOD SPEED X and disappeared into the dark. NAUTILUS continued on to Darwin.

9-11 September

En route Darwin

12 September

1300

Arrived Darwin, began loading cargo and passengers. Unloaded all but six torpedoes (Four MK 14 in bow tubes, two MK 18 on stern tubes). Refueled and provisioned.

13 September

Underway from Darwin at 0700 in according with Secret Operation Order 855-44, special mission to Cebu and Mindanao, Philippines.

14-15 September

En route special mission

16 September

2000 Transited Ambon Strait to avoid having to go west of Buru. Avoided radar equipped patrol vessel at 2051.

17 September

En route special mission

18 September

Near position 3-16 N 122-33 E in Celebes Sea.

0040 APR-1 began detecting radar emissions bearing 073. Lookouts spotted the bow wake of a destroyer bearing 072 5000 yards closing high speed at nearly the same time. A turn away to port was ordered and flank speed raised, with General Quarters called. SJ radar was secured after last sweep, as per procedure sweeps are made every fifteen minutes.

Now on the bridge, I could clearly see a large DD closing. Tubes 5,6, were made ready to fire but before could set a solution, the DD began a zig and opened fire. With shells splashing close, NAUTILUS submerged at 0045, rigged for depth charge, and silent running. A depth of 300 ft was ordered as well.

Pinging was soon heard and a barrage of depth charges followed. At 0055 a close pattern caused heavy damage, most critical of which was flooding in forward torpedo room. Leaks were, quickly stopped, and water in compartment compensated for.

Eventually lost enemy destroyer, remained submerged until 1800, surfaced.
Inspection of boat showed all four bow torpedoes were not operational. Damage Control party was assigned.

19 September

Transited Sibutu Pass West of Tawi Tawi, continued on towards Bohol Sea via Sulu sea

20-21 September

En route to special mission

22 September

0000 Entered Bohol Sea

On evening of 22 approached Libertad, Mindanao and deployed passengers via rubber boat fro 2200-2350.

23 September

0700 Submerged in Bohol Sea. Next special operation schedule for 24 September at Iusian Point, CEBU.

1900 Surfaced

24 September

Throughout day dodged numerous contacts with patrol vessels as approached the narrow area in Cebu Strait.

2130 Surfaced 6 miles off Cebu. Began landing operation at 2200. Deployed rubber boats with cargo and passengers. Embarked eleven evacuees.

25 September

0035 Operation completed. Received message from CTF-72 directing NAUTILUS to proceed to COALARGO BAY, LEYTE to recover friendly intelligence agent. Proceeded North through CEBU STRAIT.

Submerged 0500, dodged a patrol twice through the day. Surfaced at 2000 and at 2040 transited OLANGO CHANNEL, passing into CAMOTES SEA.

26 September

Submerged off BILIRAN and MARIPIP islands. Observed traffic not using BILIRAN STRAIT, as it was likely mined. Traffic used the wider strait between BILIRAN and MARIPIPI islands. Surfaced at 1900 and eased through this strait at 7 knots under cover of darkness, undetected.

Entered in COALARGO BAY, dodging a paddle wheel costal freighter at 2241 and a fishing boat at 2249.

Proceeded to "Spot 1" , arrived on time at 2330, 1500 yards off CABUCGYAN. No security signal was observed and objective was a no show.

27 September

Waited until 0430 when forced to withdraw into deeper waters to submerge for day, with plane to surface and meet at "Spot 2" , then try "Spot 1" again.

Sound of COALARGO BAY revealed max depth of 125 feet. Patrolled at 90 feet for most of the day with periscope observations every thirty minutes.
Numerous fishing boats spotted through the day in addition to a large flying boat flying low, apparently taking off from Leyte area.

1900 Surfaced and proceeded to "Spot 2". Agent failed to show and no security signals were spotted, in spite of waiting until 0430 before withdrawing into bay.

28 September

0500 Submerged in COALARGO BAY.

1850 Surfaced and proceeded to "Spot 1" , agent was again a no show, no security signals observed.

At 2351, SJ contact approaching fast. Contact visually sighted at 2358, identified as ATAMI patrol gunboat.

29 September

Arrived off "Spot 2" , once again, no security signals observed. Two small coastal patrol boats arrived in area. Believing operation compromised, not wanting to get trapped in the shallow waters of the bay, decided to depart area at 0130. Exited the bay area via BLIRANN-MARIPIPI STRAIT 0430.

Planned submerged but overcast and low visibility set in, so remained on surface en route SAN BERNADINO STRAIT to depart for MIOS WOENDI and termination of patrol.

0738 While passing between MASBATE and TAGAPUIN islands, larger shell splashes observed, including one just ten yards to starboard. NAUTILUS, apparently under shore battery fired, . immediately zigged and ordered a dive. No hits were scored, luckily.

1001 Two PC type vessels originating from MASBATE arrived in area and swept for submarines, did not detect NAUTILUS

1900 Surfaced. Approaching SAN BERNADINO STRAIT.

1940 Sighted a fishing trawler, avoided.

1950 APR-1 detected radar emissions ahead, soon two pips rushing towards NAUTILUS. The Trawler, 8000 yards astern began to close at higher rate of speed. Appears we were detected, assistance was radioed for, and were not snared in a trap.

Unable to evade the contacts ahead closing at high speed, turned away but the trawler revealed itself to be armed with a deck gun and searchlight. The searchlight began to sweep our direction at 2001 and the trawler opened fire from 4500 yards. Other contacts astern at 6000 closing fast.

Luckily were in deep waters in approach to narrow pass of the strait and submerged to 300 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge. Soon what sounded like two DD or DE arrived in area, pinging.

Four successive depth charge attacks pushed NAUTILUS to 355 feet.

30 September

Over next several hours boat was damaged repeatedly but held together under brutal depth charging. Most serious damage was to batteries, leaving at just 30 percent capacity. Sound reported one enemy underway close aboard at 0710. A few pings were heard but no depth charges close to use. Astern of NAUTILUS, some poor fish or marine creature was getting beat up with depth charges.

After hours of no contact, NAUTILUS rose to periscope depth and then SJ radar depth. One pip was astern t just 6000 yards and turned out direction. Back to 350 feet NAUTILUS went and as descended past 260 feet, enemy destroyer roared above and dropped a pattern. Then circled and pinging area before leaving at high speed.

At 1400 , came to periscope depth and then radar depth, no contacts, thankfully, we had escaped. However, battery power was now down to 17 percent and had been under water for over 12 hours. Due to proximity of islands, could not surface until night fall. Eased along, planning to surface at dark, recharge batteries, and transit the strait.

At 1502 while at depth of 150 feet, several large explosions rocked the NAUTILUS, causing damage, mainly leaks in air and water lines. Assuming it was aircraft the spotted us in the clear inner islands waters, submerged to 200 feet. At 1702, at periscope depth, sighted low flying single engine floatplane. One minute later NAUTILUS was bombed again as she passed 100 feet, boat shaken, but no damage. Surfaced after dark and headed for SAN BERNADINO STRAIT. Damaged batteries would not recharge beyond 22 percent.

2300 Ran decks awash to avoid possible lookouts, shore batteries as crossed narrow entrance to the strait between CALINTAAN and CAPUL islands. While in the middle of the narrow, shallow pass, SJ detected four contacts closing from 170. These four pips were a small convoy of one mid sized AK with three PC type escort exiting Capul Pass into the strait heading for ALBAY GULF. NAUTILUS was in no condition to attack, but dispatched a contact report.

1 October

0030 Half way through SAN BERNADINO STRAIT, SJ had two rapidly closing pips bearing 000 24000 yards. blew tanks to fully surfaced, increased speed to flank and avoided what were believed to be our two "friends" (DD's) from the 30th.

0400 Cleared the strait and set course of MIOS WOENDI.

2-5 October

En route to MIOS WOENDI. Batteries restored to just 44 percent capacity. Torpedo Tube No. 1 determined could not be repaired while at sea.

At this time a fuel leak was discovered as our fuel supply dwindled faster than expected but still had enough to make MIOS WOENDI if traveled at 11.5 knots.

5 October

1130 Moored along side tender at MIOS WOENDI. Terminated war patrol.

https://i.postimg.cc/N09kHncr/battle-area.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/V6X97b5f/Cebucoast1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/rsc17FtS/cloudy.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/K84n6W4s/fishing-boat-coalargo-bay.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/PrSWFHfw/Maripippi-Islandscope1.png (https://postimages.org/)
MARIPIPI ISLAND, PHILIPPINES

https://i.postimg.cc/brTxPcQ4/Mingdusk1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/7ZcgwN2P/mingodrill1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/kXJNcGCC/mingodusk2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/1zkccKm7/Mingo-Night1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/J7ccZJ9K/mingonight2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/BvK261TT/mingoscope1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/wBLsHYzF/mingoscope2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/1t1wN5BL/Mingounderway1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/TwjmjMHh/Mingounderway2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/RCRKNmHD/mingounderway3.png (https://postimages.org/)

USS MINGO SS-261 underway

https://i.postimg.cc/W3Vq1YbV/pcsmoke.png (https://postimages.org/)
Smoke of PC near COALARGO BAY

https://i.postimg.cc/hPtxmY8P/troopsdeploy.png (https://postimages.org/)
Troops in boat going ashore at Mindanao

https://i.postimg.cc/KjJMV7b2/troopsombpw.png (https://postimages.org/)

Troops on bow of submarine, boarding their rubber boat.

Bubblehead1980

02-24-22, 02:47 AM

TMO UPDATE BH V2.0
Donation Narwhal
100 difficulty, contacts on, cameras off.

"SUNK ENEMY SUBMARINE" (Friendly Fire)

Since boat was lost, can't really do a normal report for patrol, decided to do the report write up in the form of after action report of the DE. I had the camera off but can imagine their perspective. May try to replay scenario before I deleted my saves for the career, just to watch the DE work. I used the name RICHARD M. ROWELL DE-403, the DE that sunk the SEAWOLF in a "friendly fire" situation in October 1944. Ironically, also off MOROTAI.

In the "OVERDUE AND PRESUMED LOST" I explain from my perspective what occurred.

AFTER ACTION REPORT
USS RICHARD M. ROWELL
DE-403

5 November 1944
2-34 N 130-16E
100 NM East of Morotai

4 November 1944

1500

Ordered to patrol area East of the recently captured island of MOROTAI, due to attacks by and sightings of enemy submarines in recent days. Arrived in assigned area at 2345.

5 November 1944

0300

Established radar contact with a lone, unidentified vessel bearing 001 and closed the contact. Ordered flank speed and to close contact to investigate.
General Quarters was called at 0304.

Submarine visually spotted bearing 5000 yards, confirmed by radar. Ordered forward gun to open fire when had a shot. Forward gun opened fire at 0314, shell splashes were close but was unclear if hits were scored. Observed a large submarine on the surface, which turned and submerged at 0315. Given there was no recognition signal and the dive/evasion by the submarine, along with not being in a safety area, it was believed this submarine was a enemy vessel and should be attacked.

Submarine was quickly detected on passive sonar, before active sonar was deployed. Sonar detected the boat at estimated 275 ft ft of depth and descending. At 0316, a salvo of hedgehogs were fired at sonar contact directly ahead. Eleven seconds after projectiles splashed in the water, one explosion was observed/heard, indicating a hit at 0317. A pattern of depth charges was dropped over the position as well as ROWELL steamed over the location at 0318. Pattern was set for stern racks and k guns, depth intervals of 150-250-350-450 feet. Sonar lost contact briefly after this depth charge attack.

After coming about, sonar picked up the contact, order was given to close range and another salvo of hedgehogs was fired, followed by another pattern of depth charges at 0323, but no hits were confirmed.

Came about to make another depth charge run on estimated position when at 0325, sound reported that he could hear a submarine, likely damaged, blowing its ballast. Already on the way for another run, reported that hedgehog launcher was reloaded, fired another salvo at 0325:35 with a hit confirmed by a explosion, as ROWELL rolled above target, a pattern of depth charges were dropped as well. Sound contact was lost after depth charge attack. No engine or other sounds of submarine could be heard.

However, at 0333, sounds of a vessel breaking up, collapsing hull was heard.

Continued to sweep the scene but made no further contact nor was any debris located. At 0400 ordered all stop and listened for one hour, until getting back underway at 0500, making sweeps in the area.
At 0530, as dawn broke, a PBY "BAKER 11" arrived in area to assist. At 0611, with the sun rising, spotted a oil slick and debris nearby, indicating the sinking of a submarine.

"OVERDUE AND PRESUMED LOST"
------------------------------------------------------------------

I was on the way to Brisbane via MIOS WOENDI after 15th war patrol in NAUTILUS(started in December 1941), a successful special mission delivering cargo and personnel to DIBUT BAY, LUZON, as well as using guns to finish off the USS DARTER , grounded on shoal in SOUTH CHINA SEA. Sunk a ATAMI gunboat (gunfire) off LUZON and a No.60 class subchaser (torpedo) in BALABAC STRAIT, survived a depth charge attack (no easy feat in this old boat in late 1944). I had one patrol left before NAUTILUS (as she was in reality during war) was withdrawn and ordered home.

NAUTILUS was cruising east MOROTAI en route to Brisbane via MIOS WOENDI for fuel top off (home port shifted back to Brisbane while was at sea) when APR-1 detected radar emissions, then SJ had a lone contact, which closed faster than I expected, but assumed it to be a IJN vessel, and tried to evade it, Soon, contact was in visual range and identified it as a John C Butler Class Destroyer Escort. Suddenly, it dawned on me , "friendly fire" , yes the friendly fire I implemented into TMO, was there to get me. I've been bombed by "Allied" plans in "friendly fire" incidents, but only once, and it was early war (Clemson Class in 1942/43) was I attacked by a DD in friendly fire, in the campaign.

Well, DE opened fire from about 4500-5000 yards, much further the Japanese usually do, assuming his superior radar assisted in detecting NAUTILUS, forcing a dive. DE roared in with hedgehogs and depth charges. I had the external camera off as usually, so could not go out for a look, but I heard the unusual (in sense not use to them, but have heard them before in testing) noise of hedgehogs launching and was hit somewhere up forward, as had flooding in forward torpedo room, every piece of equipment wrecked in that compartment. Followed up the attack as DE roared above with depth charges, which caused more damage in all compartments. Fought to keep boat from sinking with all back emergency but could not do it, so blew ballast tanks, figured the six inch guns could handle a lone DE or at least leave a mark. Tanks were blown dry, over 70 percent of compressed air used, finally began rising from 330 feet (was sinking below, sure damaged hull would have collapsed).

As was rising, pinging began again and soundman reported enemy closing fast, he was making another pass as we ascended past 155 feet. Heard the sound of hedgehogs launching and seconds later...BAM! Lights flicker on and off, boat shook, damage reports piled in. Flooding in control room, everything in compartment damaged. Then the depth charge pattern followed. Engine room took brunt of it. Batteries were essentially wrecked, two of four electric motors gone. Lost speed and stopping ascending at 135 feet, as loss of power and heavy weight forward dragged boat down at high velocity. Hull collapsed as passed 190 feet (due to hull damage) out of control , in spite of best efforts.

ConvoyHunting

02-28-22, 02:07 PM

Sad ending after a brillant career. :k_confused::Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

02-28-22, 04:14 PM

Sad ending after a brillant career. :k_confused::Kaleun_Salute:

Indeed, quite sad. One gets quite invested in a career/boat after that many patrols and knowing had one more before sailing back to US ( I have that implement in the sim for classes withdrawn before end of war, some dangers possible along the way to keep things interesting) . Of course can't say for sure but am confident that had been in a more modern boat that could submerged faster, go deeper, was more maneuverable under water, probably could have survived, not been hit by the hedgehogs but NAUTILUS was essentially a sitting duck.

Bubblehead1980

02-28-22, 09:02 PM

TMO Update V2.0
100 difficulty
cams off, map contacts on (for this patrol)

With the loss of NAUTILUS due to friendly fire after 14 patrols. Decided
wanted to get back into the thick of things and test out some stuff in a 1944 career. So got a GATO and randomly assigned USS BARB SS-220 which I was happy with. BARB is the subject of many "historic contacts" , traffic I added to campaign, based on real ships, which can be located and sunk at or near
the actual dates and times of sinking by a particular sub.

Since started in Jan 1944, which is before the skipper would who make her famous (Fluckey) took over, I started the career under her previous skippers name and took the objectives assigned. I plan to change the name etc when appropriate time period comes about. BARB was assigned to Area 8 for this patrol, a prime area especially in 1944. This was one of the new patrol objectives I added to campaign.

________________________________________________
WAR PATROL REPORT
USS BARB SS-220
WAR PATROL SIX
8 JANUARY-14 February 1944
AREA 8
LCDR J.R. WATERMAN, USN.

PROLOGUE
Overhaul completed at San Francisco Navy Yard, departed 23 December 1943, arrived Pearl Harbor 1 January 1944.
Commenced pre patrol training, including doctrinal depth charges and firing
of practice torpedoes. Loaded eighteen MK 14-1A torpedoes and six MK 23-1A torpedoes 6-7 January along with provisions and other ammunition. Ready for sea 8 January 1944.

NARRATIVE

*All times are local*

8 January
______________

0900 Underway from Pearl Harbor in accordance with COMSUBPAC Operation Order 09-44 with PC-461 as escort.

1245 Escort detached. Signaled X GOD SPEED BARB X

1530 Dive.

1545 Surfaced

1550 En route Midway Island course 284 15.5 knots.

9 January
______________

En route Midway Island
Course 284 degrees Speed 15.5 knots.

0700 Dive

0800 Surface

0900- Conducted Dive, Gunnery, Emergency, and Torpedo Fire Control drills.
1230

1700 Conduct crash dive drills, simulated aircraft spotting.

1730 Surfaced

10 January
_____________
En route Midway
Course 284 degrees Speed 15.5 knots.

0700 Dive

0730 Surface

1300- Conducted Gunnery, Dive, Emergency drills.
1500

11 January
____________

0825 Rendezvoused with Escort. PC-191 outside Midway reef.

0900 Docked at Submarine Tender, Midway Island.
Topped off fuel and provisions.

1315 Departed Midway for patrol area in company with PC-191

1430 Dive

1445 Surfaced

1700 PC-191 detached. Signaled "BON VOYAGE BARB X GOOD HUNTING X

12 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots

0800 Dive

0815 Surfaced

13 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots

0800 Dive

0815 Surfaced

14 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots

0800 Dive

0815 Surfaced

15 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots

0800 Dive

0815 Surfaced

16 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots

0800 Dive

0815 Surfaced

17 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots

0900 Dive

0915 Surfaced

18 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots

0940 Dive

1000 Surfaced

19 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots
Curiously, no aircraft contacts as transited North of Wake
and Marcus Islands last few days. Can only surmise
recent carrier air strikes have neutralized the increasingly isolated
islands as air bases. However, we remain alert for contacts.

0940 Dive

1001 Surfaced

20 January
____________

En route to patrol area.
Course 271 degrees Speed 14 knots

0945 Dive

1005 Surfaced

1233 Spotted vessel bearing 333 16202 yards (SJ range)
off Sofu Gan. Possible picket or weather vessel.
Spotted Sofu Gan. (Ship Contact No.1)

1234 Dive

1236 Depth 150 ft. Speed 6 kts
closed target on course 245.

1239 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO

1348 Periscope depth.
Course 198 Speed 2.5 kts
Observed a weather tug/picket anchored 5200 yards SE Sofu Gan.
Continued approach for torpedo attack.

1357 Periscope depth 64 ft. As scope was raising, three large explosions to
port rocked BARB.
Spotted BETTY speeding along at 300 ft, climbing. Apparently
BARB spotted during approach. Ordered 200 feet. No damage reported.
Vessel fired at our periscope as went down. (Aircraft Contact No.1)

1402 While at 200 ft, aircraft depth charged BARB again. Charges exploded
above. Ordered 300 ft. Tug heard underway on sound.

1450- Attempted to rise to periscope depth several times for attack on tug.
1700 However, aircraft remained in area preventing this. Tug was underway
and maneuvered out of range.

1705 Secured GQ.

2234 Surfaced

21 January
____________

Course 265 degrees Speed 10.5 knots
until dawn, increased to 14.5 knots
until night fall.

0936 SD contact 18228 yds. Night flyer closing, fast!
(Aircraft Contact No.2)

0939 Series of large explosions heard, astern.
Given still dark and not likely BARB was sighted,
likely that aircraft equipped with radar.

1113 Just after dawn, came to periscope depth.

1130 Surfaced

1539 SD contact 19950 yds closing, fast!
Dive (Aircraft Contact No.3)

1542 Depth 150 ft.

1544 Explosions of depth charges/bombs audible through hull,
not close. BARB really stirred the hornets nest as
believed radar equipped aircraft dispatched to search by day
and night for submarine contact off Sofu Gan. This
is slowly our transit and it is regrettable we were contacted
before entering patrol area.

1600 Turned to course 180, 4 kts submerged
until dark. Course change meant
to confuse enemy searches.

2146 Periscope Depth. SD mast extended.

2230 Surfaced

22 January
_____________

En route assigned area.
Course 220 Speed 10 kts

0000 Entered Area CORRIDOR I adjacent to our
assigned area.

0300 Increased speed to 15.5 kts.

0500 Turned to Course 260 10 kts

0901 Spotted surfaced submarine bearing 096
at 6500 yds. Appeared to be GATO Class,
Likely TRIGGER as transiting her assigned
area. Unable to exchange recognition signals,
turned to course 180 at flank speed
to put her astern. (Ship Contact No.2)

1103 Dive

1133 Surfaced

1135 Course 261 Speed 14 kts.

23 January
_____________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

0000 Entered Area 8, began North-South
patrol line along suspected shipping route.

0010 Seas picked up. Strong chop but not heavy. Clear skies, low moonlight,
Winds at 17.50 kts direction 114 degrees.

0100 SJ contacts bearing 355 28500 yds.
Multiple pips, appeared to be convoy.
Course 310 at speed 17 kts to intercept.
Tracking party called to stations.

0109 Increased to Flank speed to close.

0114 Slowed to 15.5 kts.

0115 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

0124 Spotted convoy bearing 235 10000 yds
Course 133 degrees Speed 10 knots

0125 Sent Contact Report to COMSUBPAC
Convoy Sighted
28-49N 132-39E in Area 8
Estimated Course 133 degrees
Estimated Course 10 kts.

0132 3000 yards off to port of
convoy track. Convoy appeared to be
six merchants in loose formation with one
escort forward, one astern.

0136 Forward escort identified as MIKURA Type B Escort Vessel
Rear escort appears to be DE type.

0149 Near firing point, convoy made what appeared to be
routine zig to SW.

0151 Flank speed, turned to course 105 to pull away from convoy.
Rear escort, began high speed sweep along port side of convoy
BARB was not spotted, this was believed to be routine escort maneuver
as convoy showed no sign of alert.

0153 Rear escort bearing 175 4000 yards.
Identified as Otori Class Torpedo Boat/Escort.

0155 Paralleled convoy on course 188 to pull ahead for
attack.

0345 Convoy zigged to port course 160.
BARB maneuvered to regain position quickly
to fire from starboard side of convoy.

0400 Fired Tubes 1,2,3 at Target No.1
:20

0400: Fired tubes 4,5,6 at Target No.2
45

0402 Torpedoes impacted Target No.1
Large fires observed on target.

0403 Torpedoes impacted Target No.2
Large fires observed on target.

After torpedo impacts, BARB came under heavy machine gun,
deck gun fire, illuminated by strong searchlights aboard
Target No.2 (MIIKE MARU) during turn away.
Lead MIKURA escort came aboard, fired two star shells
above BARB and began closing at high speed.

Several rounds of machine gun/auto cannon fire hit BARB's superstructure
but caused no serious damage. Several deck gun splashes observed
, closed about twenty yards off starboard beam during turn away.

0405 Otori Class Torpedo Boat rear escort observed pouring on the coals
speeding BARB's way. The choppy seas made it initially difficult to reach
above 19 kts during initial get away but 20 knts was reached.

0412 Otori bearing 180 fired several rounds forward guns
Splashes landed well ahead of BARB. One
flew low and heard it roar over the
periscope shears, splashed into sea about thirty yards
off port bow of BAR. However, range continued to open
so remained on surface.

0415 Began end around for follow up attack.
Observed AK AKAMA MARU 5425 tons sink at
28-32 N 132-38 E.

0416 Depth charge explosions observed/heard 6000 yards astern.
Enemy believes BARB submerged. Poor whale/fish taking our punishment.

0421 Observed AK MIIKE MARU 11800 tons sink
at 28-32 N 132-38 E.

0426 Tracking large pip believed to be AK making a solo run from area.
Bold strategy. BARB closed contact at high speed.

0450 Spotted AK bearing 292 10,170 yards.

0503 Turned about, began to back towards target
for stern shot.

0525 Target identified as AK HIYAMA MARU 7145 tons.
Course 160 Speed variations of 7-10 knots
zigging along course.

0526 Report of enemy pip closing range fast on
SJ radar, appears to be escort coming to join the
party.

0538 AK HIYAMA MARU changed course 280, possibly to rejoin
convoy. Escort closing high speed bearing 130 7000 yards
Closing range fast.

0541 HIYAMA MARU suddenly turned hard starboard to course 345, instead of zigging back towards BARB as anticipated HIYAMA MARU increased speed to twenty knots ruining stern shot. Vessel also fired several rounds from her aft deck gun in BARB's direction. BARB turned to pursue, moving to her starboard to avoid oncoming escort now just 5000 yards bearing 335, identified as Otori Class Torpedo Boat. escort (interesting tactics AI pulled here)

0618 Unable to catch HIYAMA MARU, as rejoined other merchant vessels,
another AK was on course to cross our stern for perfect setup.
Switched targets to AK similar to JOKUJA MARU 7390 tons.

0630 JOKUJA MARU turned North, away from BARB.

0634 As pursuit of JOKUJA MARU was going on. HIYAMA MARU again
towards BARB.

0636 Otori spotted bearing 170 5000 yards, closing.

0637 HIYAMA MARU turned away high speed, firing deck guns
and machine guns/auto cannons at BARB.
Star shell illuminated area.
Otori observed heading BARB direction.
Ordered flank speed on course 035

0640 Otori was now chasing BARB range 6000 yards bearing 180, closing.

0650 Otori slowed suddenly, then turned back
for convoy. BARB secured GQ and ordered
forward tubes reloaded. Would end around for follow up
attack, before dawn if possible. This would give the
convoy a chance to calm down.

0937 Regained SJ contact after end around.
Bearing 009 28,350 yards.

0956 Ahead of convoy, waiting for anticipated dawn zig for
dawn attack. Visibility now too great for surface attack.

1022 Convoy made dawn zig to SE.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

1043 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED

1101 Submerged for attack.

1106 Depth 300 ft for high speed run to close range.

1128 Periscope depth.
Observed convoy on course 160 degrees
to being stern tubes to bear on
convoy.

1148 Tubes, 7,8,9,10 made ready for firing.

1152 Fired tubes 7,8,9

1153 All three torpedoes impacted as aimed.

1154 Small fire observed, vessel lost way.
Engine noises ceased on sound.

1155 List to starboard developed on target.

1156 Lifeboats (two) observed from AK KANAGA MARU. Vessel low in water,
sinking on even keel.
Pings. Otori observed closing, Mikura escort observed closing as well
high speed. Ordered 300 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1157 Passed thermal layer 195 ft.

1159 Pinging

1202 DC explosions astern, not close.

1203 Enemy above to port. Splashes.

1204 DC explosions. Close. Real tooth shakers.
BARB at 350 ft depth. Most charges seem above.

1206 Second escort above. Many splashes.
DC explosions. All were above, not too close.

1207 BARB leveled off at 370 ft.

1209 Pinging

1211 Depth Charge explosions, distant.

1212 Sounds of ship breaking up audible on sound gear
from last bearing of target attacked.

1213 Multiple DC explosions astern.
Pinging from closing escort.

1215 Pinging on short scale. Enemy closing high speed.

1216 Enemy above. Many splashes.

1217 DC explosions.

1221 Pinging. Distant DC explosions.
BARB at 375 ft

1223 Enemy crossing bow above.
One DC explosion, above aft.

1224 One DC explosion to port.

1226 Pinging.

1227 Enemy crossing bow, above.
Splashes. Ordered AHEAD FLANK!
BARB at 382 ft.
Boat shaken by DC explosions.

1230 Pinging

1238 Distant DC explosions

1248 Pinging.
More distant DC explosions.

1251 Enemy above.
Splashes.
BARB at depth of 390 ft

1252 DC explosions.

1310 Sound reported enemy heading away at high speed.

1332 Believe one escort departed to rejoin convoy.
Other remained in area estimated 5000 yards, hunting.
Occasional ping heard but did not appear to
have contact with BARB.

1416 Secured GQ
Escort remains in area hunting.
Maintained Silent Running.
Course 256 Speed 2.5 kts
Depth 390 ft.

1500 Damage assessment show BARB faired well
in depth charge attack. Only some light bulbs
and glass fixture busted. Minor piping
and air line leaks in conning tower and control room.

1510 Enemy remains in area about 7000-10000 yards astern.
Occasional sporadic explosions heard.

1630 Turned to course 332 degrees

1945 Lost Sound contact.
Secured Silent Running.

1948 Tubes 7,8,9 ordered reloaded.
BARB to depth of 300 ft.

2306 Periscope depth.
Night settled in.
All clear.
Seas remain choppy.

2308 Radar depth for SJ/SD sweep.

2315 Surfaced.

24 January
_____________

0000 Position: 28-22N 132-23E
Course 320
Speed 10 kts
Proceeded to Northern section
of Area 8.

1150 Dive. Submerging for day to allow
maintenance and rest of crew.

1151 SD contact 30380 yards (Aircraft Contact No.4)
Contact made just after dive alarm sounded
before SD was secured.

1157 Course 010
Speed 3 kts
Depth 300 ft

2214 Surfaced.

25 January
_____________

1100 Dive

1130 Surfaced

26 January
_____________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3

0103 SJ contacts bearing 009 12153 yards
PPI showed eight pips, one lead, one astern.
Definitely six ship convoy with two escorts.
(Ship Contact No.4)

0110 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

0130 Convoy zigged to starboard on course 186 degrees.

0211 Approaching from port of convoy for attack.

0212 Contact Report sent to COMSUBPAC
Convoy Sighted 29-17N 132-42E
Estimated Course/Speed
187 degrees 7 knots

0250 Fired tubes 1,2, Target No.1
Fired Tubes 3,4, Target No.2
Tubes 5,6, failed to fire, unknown damage

0252 All torpedoes hit their targets. Both vessels
caught fire. BARB came under no fire,
as was not spotted, in spite of star shells
and search lights.

0300 AK 5000 tons sunk.

0315 AK 5000 tons sunk.

0322 Tubes 5,6, now functional.

0337 Approaching from starboard for attack.

0343 Inside scattered convoy large AK bearing 335 3000 yards closing.
Escort vessel bearing 030 4000 yards.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4

0348 Fired tubes 5,6,

0349 torpedo impacts!
Both hit

0350 During away large AK 2100 yards bearing 340 accelerated towards BARB to ram.
Illuminated BARB with searchlight, opened fire with machine guns, auto cannon, and forward deck gun.
Forward deck gun fire was not accurate, but multiple machine gun rounds hit BARB's bridge and deck. On the bridge, QM2c John C. Clark was seriously wounded by gunfire. BARB raced away at high speed, avoided ramming and gunfire, with nearby escort vessel in pursuit.

0351 Several large shell splashes off port and starboard bow, one was about 20 ft away. Escort opened fire. Star shells. SJ reports bearing and range of second escort rapidly decreasing, likely heading for the BARB.

0418 Escort turned back to rejoin remainder of convoy. BARB slowed and began working for attack position with stern tubes.

0546 3000 yards off convoy track. Convoy on course 140 at 6 knots constant zig along track. Three AK, one escort vessel. Second escort 8000 yards astern hunting.

0552 Tubes 7,8,9,10 made ready for firing.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.5

0606 AK zigged towards BARB. Fired tubes 8,9,10

0608 Torpedo impact!
All three torpedoes hit stern area of target.
Stern appears blown off.

Volley of machine gun fire was lobbed BARB's way as she went
to flank speed to open range. Some rounds hit the BARB
but no damage or injuries occurred.

0609 Escort appeared to have spotted BARB, racing in, guns blazing.
Star shells illuminated BARB.

0615 Large AK sunk by stern.

0620 Escort suddenly ended pursuit, turned back to guard convoy.
Barb slowed for torpedo reload. Four torpedoes remain forward compartment,
two in aft. Shadowed convoy for one more surface attack before dawn.
Just two merchant vessels out of original six remain.

0740 SD contact 8900 yards closing, fast! Night flyer.
Dive! (Aircraft Contact No.5)

0742 BARB leveled off 150 ft.
Series of explosions astern above.
Likely night flyer had radar.
Secured GQ to rest crew while wait
enemy out.

0845 Sound reported warship closing fast, bearing 200.
Appears aircraft vectored in one of the escorts.

0900 Escort arrived in general vicinity of BARB.

0914 Escort passed above, several pings heard
BARB at 300 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0920 Depth charge explosions about 4000 yards to port.

0940 Sound reported escort departing high speed.

1000 Periscope depth. Extended SD mast.

1002 SD contact 11000 yards, steady.
Contact appears to be circling area.

1005 Surfaced for end around.

1300 Unable to regain contact within area. Turned for Northern part of area.

1505 Spotted debris field one of earlier sinking bearing 353.
29-18N 142-40E Debris from AK AKAMA MARU.

1900 Seas calmed. Wind speed 0 knots.

27 January
____________

1100 Dive

1120 Surface

2149 SD Contact 13500 yds closing.
(Aircraft Contact No.6)

2152 BARB at 150 ft.
Series of explosions heard.
Bomb/depth charges from aircraft.

2300 Surfaced.

28 January
_____________

0927 SJ Contact bearing 038 27500 yds
Eight pips. Lead and rear are likely escorts of convoy.
(Ship Contact No.4)

0937 Convoy will be out of area shortly after noon.
Not enough daylight, too much moonlight for
surface attack, opted for night time periscope attack.

0938 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED

0951 Convoy zigged to port.
Convoy course 015
Increased speed, now in position
to attack port column instead of starboard.

0958 Contact Report Sent to COMSUBPAC
Convoy Sighted 31-08N 132-35E
Estimated Course/Speed
014 degrees 8 kts

1001 Submerged for attack.

1004 Depth 90 ft for approach.

1007 Pinging. BARB detected. Enemy escort closing fast.
Ordered 300 ft, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

1011 Enemy above. Splashes heard.
DC explosions as BARB passed 292 ft.

1012 Damage Reported (See DAMAGE DEFECTS section).

1015 Pinging

1016 Enemy above. Ordered 350 ft. Flank speed

1017 DC explosions.

1018 Second escort above.
Many splashes and DC explosions.

1020 BARB at 370 ft

1023 DC explosions

1024 DC explosions, boat shaken. Depth 380 ft.

1025 Damage reported. Flooding in aft torpedo room
Flooding in forward torpedo room.
Damage Control Parties assigned

1030 Flooding stopped in forward torpedo room.

1036 Flooding in aft torpedo under control.
Increased speed to compensate.

1044 Very close pattern of DC explosions.

1056 Water pumped from Aft torpedo room.
Boat returned to trim.

1058 Enemy above. Splashes

1059 DC explosions. BARB at 394 ft.

1059: Depth charge heard bouncing off aft deck. Distinctive "CLANG" heard.
35

1100 DC explosion below, real tooth shaker.

1102 Close DC. Boat shaken.

1130 One enemy escort heard leaving area high speed.

1546 Lost contact with enemy.

1600 Secured GQ.

1900 Secured silent running. Remained at 300 ft.

2240 Periscope depth. Neither periscope functional, apparently
damaged in attack.

2242 Radar depth. All clear.

2244 Surfaced.

2250 Damage Control Party assigned to repair periscopes.

29 January
____________

0939 SJ contact bearing 355 28000 yds.
Two pips. Set course to close contact.
(Ship Contact No. 7)

1000 Visual contact bearing 330.
Contact is two DD's, a patrol.
Due to material condition of boat, avoided contact.

1443 SD contact 16000 yards closing.
(Aircraft Contact No. 7)

1444 Submerge

1625 Surfaced

31 January
_____________

1100 Dive

1125 Surface

1 February
____________
1105 Dive

1125 Surface

2 February
____________

0000 Both periscopes unable to be repaired at sea.
Sent report to COMSUBPAC. Received permission to return
to Pearl Harbor.

3 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

1045 Dive

1100 Surfaced

4 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

1045 Dive

1100 Surfaced

5 February
___________

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

1045 Dive

1100 Surfaced

6 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor

1045 Dive

1100 Surfaced

7 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

0930 Dive

1000 Surfaced

8 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

0930 Dive

1000 Surfaced

8 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

0915 Dive

0930 Surfaced

9 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway

0915 Dive

0930 Surfaced

10 February
____________

1200 Docked Midway.
Topped off fuel.

1800 Departed Midway for Pearl Harbor.

11 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor

0830 Dive

0845 Surfaced

12 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor

0830 Dive

0845 Surfaced

13 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor

0830 Dive

0845 Surfaced

14 February
____________

En route Pearl Harbor

0730 Dive

0745 Surfaced

1130 Arrived Pearl Harbor. Terminated War Patrol.

CONTACTS

Aircraft Contacts
(at initial contact)

*All times are local*

NO.1
DATE 1944/01/20
TIME 1357
LAT 29-47N
LOG 140-23E
BRG 264
RNG 2000 yds
CRS 110
SPD 200 kts
ALT 300 ft
HOW Visual
TYPE G4M BETTY
REMARK
Bombed/depth charged BARB at periscope depth.

NO.2
DATE 1944/01/21
TIME 0936
LAT 29-40N
LOG 138-15E
BRG --
RNG 18228 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT 1000 ft
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Night flyer. Dropped bombs/depth charges near
location after BARB submerged. Likely
equipped with radar as could not have visually sighted
the boat.

NO.3
DATE 1944/01/21
TIME 1539
LAT 29-38N
LOG 137-27E
BRG --
RNG 19950 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT 1500 ft
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Dropped bombs/depth charges, explosions heard.
Possible radar equipped.

NO.4
DATE 1944/01/24
TIME 1151
LAT 29-59N
LOG 131-43E
BRG --
RNG 30380 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT 1100 ft
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
While submerging just after dawn (local)

NO.5
DATE 1944/01/26
TIME 0740
LAT 28-49N
LOG 132-40E
BRG --
RNG 8900 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT 1000 ft
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

Aircraft likely called in
due to reports of being attack.
Believe aircraft had radar
as it located BARB in rthe dark and bombed at site of dive
Enemy escort a was vectored in.

NO.6
DATE 1944/01/27
TIME 2149
LAT 30-14N
LOG 131-16E
BRG --
RNG 13500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT 1000 ft
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Dropped bombs/depth charges
Likley radar equipped aircraft.

NO.7
DATE 1944/01/29
TIME 1443
LAT 29-46N
LOG 133-51E
BRG --
RNG 16000 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT 1000 ft
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

Ship Contacts
(at initial contact)

NO.1
DATE 1944/01/20
TIME 1233
LAT 29-47N
LOG 140-23E
BRG 333
RNG 16202 yds
CRS 108
SPD 0 kts
HOW Visual
TYPE
Weather tug/picket. Anchored.
Armed with 3 inch gun forward, machine guns mounted amidships.
Various antennae spotted.

NO.2
DATE 1944/01/22
TIME 0901
LAT 28-27N
LOG 135-46E
BRG 096
RNG 6500 yds
CRS 178
SPD 14 kts
HOW Visual
TYPE SS
Appear to be US submarine of GATO Class.
Likely TRIGGER as were transiting her
area CORRIDOR I.

NO.3
DATE 1944/01/23
TIME 0100
LAT 28-47N
LOG 132-51E
BRG 355
RNG 28500 yds
CRS 133
SPD 10 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE
AK, AK, AK, AK, AK, AK SC, TB
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

NO.4
DATE 1944/01/26
TIME 0103
LAT 29-33N
LOG 132-43E
BRG 009
RNG 12153 yds
CRS 155
SPD 8 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE AK,AK,AK,AK,AK, EV,EV
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.5

NO.5
DATE 1944/01/28
TIME 0927
LAT 31-11N
LOG 132-31E
BRG 038
RNG 27500 yds
CRS 321
SPD 8 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE Convoy, two escorts, unsure of composition.

NO.7
DATE 1944/01/28
TIME 0939
LAT 30-5N
LOG 133-52E
BRG 355
RNG 28000 yds
CRS 200
SPD 16 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE DD, DD
REMARK
Patrol

WEATHER

Weather en route to patrol area and while in area was calm, warm, and comfortable for most of the patrol.
While in area for a few days seas did increase with 4-6 foot waves, winds 17-18 knots. Moonlight was
on most night almost nonexistent providing ideal conditions for night surface attacks.

Some squalls and rough seas were encountered en route to Pearl Harbor from assigned area but
nothing unusual.

ATTACK DATA

Five torpedo attacks were conducted on this patrol, with a total of eighteen torpedoes fired
for seven ships sunk.All torpedoes functioned properly to our knowledge. Four of five attacks conducted
were on the surface, at night against convoys. Submerged day attack was made on convoy previously attacked
during the night. A attempted submerged night time attack was made, but a alert escort detected BARB
and prevented attack.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1
1944/01/23 0400
28-3N 132-38E

Ships Sunk-

AK AKAMA MARU 5425 tons
28-3N 132-38E
1944/01/23 0415

AK MIIKE MARU 11800 tons
28-32N 132-38E

Verified by-
Observed torpedoes hit and vessels sink.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2
1944/01/23 1152
29-18N 142-40E

Ships Sunk-

AK KANAGA MARU 4923 tons
29-18N 142-40E
1944/01/23 1212

Verified by-
Observed solid torpedo hits in vessel, vessel sinking.
Clearly audible sounds of vessel breaking up/sinking.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3
1944/01/26 0250
29-26N 133-0E

Ships Sunk-

AK Unidentified MARU 5000 tons
1944/01/26 0300
29-17N 132-42E

AK Unidentified MARU 5000 tons
1944/01/26 0315
29-17N 132-42E

Verified by-
Observed torpedoes hit and targets sink.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4
1944/01/26 0348
27-17N 132-42E

Ships Sunk-

AK Unidentified MARU 7000 tons
1944/01/26
27-17N 132-42E

Verified by-
Observe target sink after torpedo hits.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5
1944/01/26 0606
27-18N 132-35E

Ships Sunk-

* Identity not confirmed, vessel similar to class named.

AK HIYAMA MARU* 7145 tons
1944/01/26 0615
27-18N 132-35E

Verified by-
Observed three torpedoes hit target in stern.
Stern blown off of target. Observed target sink
visually and disappear from PPI scope.

MINES

No enemy mines were encountered

NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

Sofu Gan served as a navigational aid. Otherwise the open sea area provided
no aides.

THERMAL LAYERS

Thermal layers were encountered at 195 feet
and 270 ft.

SOUND CONDITIONS AND SOUND GEAR

Sound conditions were generally favorable in patrol area.

Sound gear functioned well, with a marked decline due to damage taken
in depth charge attacks.

RADAR

SJ

Newly installed SJ-1 Radar and PPI scope worked well in detecting and tracking convoys.
As a policy, SJ sweeps are conducted every quarter hour when on surfaced.
Typical detection range was about 25000 yards.

SD

SD Radar function was adequate, although appears to have difficulty tracking
aicraft beyond 10000 yards when at altitudes at altitude of 1000 feet or less.

RADIO

Radio function was normal throughout patrol.

ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Countermeasures

Overall, enemy ASW measures were standard. Each convoy encountered had two escorts. Lead escort made sweeps to each side of
the convoys path forward roughly every fifteen minutes, aft escort did the same, but often
conducted sweeps 5000-10000 yards to the rear quarters of the convoys. Rear escort is typically a DE
or in our case Otori class torpedo boats, capable of high speeds to conduct this manner of escort and patrol.

Enemy aircraft were encountered almost daily in patrol area, with one called in following a series of attacks
on 26 January that left four enemy ships sunk, out of six in the convoy (not including two escorts). This aircraft
was a night flyer and most likely had radar as it closed in on BARB , forcing a dive. Explosions of bombs were heard above,
indicating BARB was detected beyond visual range , at night.

Night flyer, possibly equipped with radar were encountered en route to area as well. Following a attempted attack
on a weather tug off Sofu Gan, in which a BETTY that was in area spotted BARB at periscope depth during approach
and bombed us. For two days and nights aircraft flew in the area along our base course, forcing several dives, and were
bombed nearly every time, even at night. Again, the pinpointing of our location beyond visual range,
in particular at night, indicates aircraft armed with radar.

Open ocean patrols by teams of first line Destroyers were
contacted, indicating a strengthened ASW presence, along with aircraft in the vital sea
lanes in which BARB was assigned.

Enemy depth charge attacks were effective on this patrol. Japanese escorts appear to be equipped with
new, more powerful depth charges along with improved sound gear. Team tactics including
attacks in rapid succession were used by enemy in both attacks. After some time, one would rejoin convoy while
other kept submarine pinned down permitting their charges to open the range for escape.

While the ASW vessels were effective, a major flaw is neigh kept their attacks beyond a few hours,
departing to rejoin. This is particularly true for the second attack on 28 January, as BARB had serious damage, the early termination of the attack provided much needed relief.

Evasion

Evasion of enemy aircraft consisted of a dive to 150 feet for 30-90 minutes, followed
by a sweep at periscope depth with SD via extended mast.

Forces hunting for BARB following encounter off Sofu Gan were evaded by a course change and high speed run further South-East into southern part of
area in lieu of maintaining base course. This tactic proved successful as there were no more contacts until reached assigned area.

Evasion of depth charges consisted of diving to 300 feet, rigged for silent running,
with five to degrees rudder applied to port or starboard at nearly all times, this served
to confused enemy as to our exact heading. After first run, BARB descended to 350 ft, then 375 ft.
These left typically charges or most exploding above the BARB.However, BARB was forced to 390 feet to get
below the enemy's sonar and depth charge patterns.
Once at 390 ft, the enemy appeared to have difficulty, overall, tracking BARB.

When a enemy would be directly above, a "burst" of speed would by used by ordering
'Ahead Flank' for thirty seconds, reducing to ahead standard and then back
to 1/3 after thirty seconds.

MAJOR DAMAGE AND DEFECTS

Defects

No major material defects occurred on this patrol.

Damage

All damage repaired at sea unless otherwise indicated.

Depth Charge Attack No.1
1944/01/23

1.Hydraulic Pump

2.Leaks-Piping

3.High Pressure Air Lines

4. Light Bulbs

5. Glass Fixtures

Depth Charge Attack No.2
1944/01/28

1. No.1 Observation Periscope Head- Unable to repair at sea.
2. No.2 Attack Periscope Head- Unable to repair at sea.
3. Forward Torpedo room flooding- One and a half foot of water pumped
from compartment.
4. Forward Batteries
5. JP Listening Gear
6. Dive Planes-Forward Transmission
7. SJ Radar Antenna
8. SD Radar Antenna
9. Torpedo Tube No.4
10. Compressor
11. Trim Pump
12. Hydraulic Pump
11. Stern Batteries
12. No.2 Diesel
13. No.4 Diesel
14. No.1 Electric Motor
15. No.3 Electric Motor
16. Port Propeller Shaft- Unable to fully repair at sea, knocked out of alignment.
17. Dive Planes-Aft Transmission
18. No.10 Torpedo Tube
19. No.7 Torpedo Tube
20. 4" 50 Caliber Forward Mounted Deck Gun- Training and Elevation function limited.Unable to fully repair at sea.

21. Numerous water lines, piping, in all compartments developed leaks.
A persistent leak in conning tower was not resolved for nearly twenty four
hours.
22. High Pressure Air Lines in all compartments leaked.
23. Light Bulbs and Glass fixtures in all compartments busted.
24. Six inches of water in Aft Torpedo Room-Pump from compartment
and bilges.

PERSONNEL

Crew of the BARB performed well throughout a busy and challenging patrol.
Eight men advanced in rating during this patrol
Eleven men qualified during this patrol.

QM2c John C. Clark was wounded by machine gun fire during night surface attack.
Clark was on the bridge as a forward lookout beside the Commanding Officer and Battle Stations OOD when just after torpedo impact, during BARB's turn away, a barrage of machine gun fire hit the forward deck with a few rounds hitting the lower shears and bridge area.
Although wounded, Clark remained at his post until relieved and overall had recovered by the time BARB returned from patrol.

HEALTHY AND HABITABILITY

Crew morale and health on the patrol were excellent. No doubt this was assisted
by well prepared meals, generally pleasant weather, and the sinking of seven enemy vessels.

MILES STEAMED FUEL-CONSUMED

Pearl to Midway
1350 Miles 16550 Gallons

Midway to Area
3400 Miles 44865 Gallons

In Area
5000 Miles 66,288 gallons

Area to Midway
3500 Miles 64944 gallons

Midway to Pearl
1350 Miles 16745 gallons

DURATION
Days
Total 44.5

Pearl to Midway 3.5

Midway to Area 14

In Area 9

Area to Midway 14

Midway to Pearl 4

FACTORS IN ENDURANCE

Torpedoes 6

Fuel 30,144 Gallons

Provisions 34 days

Crew Indefinite

Factor in Termination of patrol-Damage
Both periscopes damaged beyond repair.

REMARKS

A highly successful patrol, BARB's best to date with seven ships sunk. Area 8 proved to contain vital
North/South sea lanes. Three convoys, two Southbound and one Northbound were encountered in the within five days of one another in patrol area. Enemy air and surface patrols, along with escorts
protected these convoys well. Enemy frequently uses zigs and course changes to thwart attacks.

Finally, the it is regrettable BARB had to depart early for home with six torpedoes left (four forward, two aft) due to irreparable damage to both periscopes, but BARB and her crew remain proud of what were able to accomplish in just nine days on station.

J.R. Waterman

ConvoyHunting

03-02-22, 12:24 PM

PATROL 1 (06.08.1942 - 14.09.1942)
Skipper : Lt Cdr Arthur Wellman
Boat : SS-229 Flying Fish (Call Sign NFAP)
Area : East China Sea (F-2)
Days at sea : 40 (13 in operation area, 27 on transit)
Merchants sunk : 7
Merchant tonnage : 20803
Warships sunk :
Warship tonnage :
Torpedoes fired : 8 (5 hits, 2 miss, 1 dude)
Awards : Navy Commendation Medal, citation : "for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service"

PROLOGUE
Midway, august 1942. Lt Cdr Arthur Wellman is taking command of SS-229 Flying Fish for his first war patrol as skipper. Orders was to carry anti-shipping operation in East China Sea for at least 10 days (operation area codenamed : F-2). SS-229 fully armed and supplied. Ready to be put to sea by 06.08.1942.

NARRATION
06.08.1942
Midway
08:00 - Leaving Midway for first war patrol. Clear skies, good visibility, wind 15mps 189. Practiced dive test and drills.

06.08 - 19.08.1942
On transit to operation area. No contacts. Begin day submerged-night surfaced routine since 14.08.1943. Wind and waves changed several times from 12 mps (07.08.1942) to 15mps (16.08.1942) and 11mps (18.08.1942).Visibility excellent to good in general.

19.08.1942
129'40E-28'50N
09:43 - Visual contact with lone japanese large old split freighter, bearing 288 at 9knots.Probably sailling from Okinawa to Japan, apparently armed. Searching a good position for a submerged attack after going to periscope depth. Fired two torpedoes, one hit and other one dude. Sunk for 8198 tons. Returned to transit after visual confirmation of the sinking.

21.08.1942
126'8E-27'27N
04:48 - Operation area reached. Clear skies, excellent visibility, wind 9mps.

22.08.1942
123'47E-28'21N
10:44 - Visual contact during sunrise with lone japanese medium modern split freighter, bearing 009 at 07knots. Ennemy merchant was shadowed during 20 minutes to find adequate position for submerged attack. Fired two torpedoes, one hit and one miss. Surfaced to confirm sinking, 3266 tons. Partly cloudy skies, good visiblity, wind 2mps 157.

24.08.1942
122'16E-27'06N
21:38 - Visual contact with three unarmed japanese fishing boat, bearing 188 at 08knots. According to favourable situation and the small sizes, conducted surface attack with deckgun. Three ships sunk for a total of 800 tons. Since our position was certainly transmitted with ships S.O.S during the shooting party, we can maybe count on ASW group or airplaines patrols send into the area. Partly cloudy skies, good visibility, wind 8mps 207.

25.08.1942
121'59E-26'33N
23:52 - Visual contact with lone japanese Hogh Island type freighter, bearing 350 at 9knots. Shadowed her on surface to find a suitable attack position. Since it's unclear merchant is armed or not, opted to conduct a conservative submerged attack. Fired two torpedoes, two hits. Sunk confirmed for 4802 tons. Partly cloudy skies, good visibility, wind 11mps 161.

28.08.1942
122'42E-27'26N
14:12 - Sound contact with lone japanese medium old composite freighter, bearing 042 at 9knots. Shadowed her submerged and opted for a aft torpedoes tubes attack at 1750yards. Fired two torpedoes, one hit and one miss. Surface to confirm sinking for 3941 tons. Partly cloudy skies, excellent visibility, wind 2mps 299.

30.08.1942
122'25E-27'22N
00:49 - Bad weather in operation area. Cloudy skies, moderate rain, poor visibility, 7mps 52. Submerged during the night after battery recharged.
01:19 - Outgoing HF transmission : TO COMSUBPAC - ONE - IN OP F-2 SINCE 21.08 - SUNK SEVEN MERCHANTS FOR 20803 TONS - NFAP
08:42 - End of moderate rain.
22:00 - Received message through FOX SCHEDULE transmission : TO NFAP - ONE - TRANSMISSION ACKNOWLEDGED - EXCELLENT RESULTS - AUTHORIZED TO RETURN BASE AT DISCRETION - COMSUBPAC
22:47 - Deceided to pass betwenn Okinawa and Manya during return trip to see if we encounter traffic here.

02.09.1942
128'20E-17'20N
04:47 - Passing 45.5NM north of Okinawa. No traffic or contact. Plotted course to Midway, calculated best fuel conservation speed for the return trip. Partly cloudy skies, good visibility, wind 0mps 255.

02.09-12.09.1942
On transit to Midway. Crashdive after visual contact with unidentified aircraft (07.09.1942 - 146'59E-18'3N). Winds changed from 11mps (03.09) to 13mps (08.09) and 00mps (10.09). Visibility excellent.

14.09.1942
Midway
19:56 - Docked at Midway, ending first war patrol.

AIR CONTACTS
07.09.1942
146'59E-18'3N
09:35 - Unidentified aircraft.

WEATHER CONDITIONS
Generaly good and calm sea most of the time during transit, excellent to good visiblity. Winds peaks to 15mps with high waves just for couple of hours or days. Some days of rains and bad weather in operation area.

RADIO RECEPTION
No difficulty experienced with reception during the entire patrol. All nightly FOX Schedule transmissions were copied.

HEALTH AND HABITABILITY
Excellent. Good morale and spirit among the crew. Two full meals were served daily, with soup and cold drink at noon. One officer was on the sick list three days, diagnosis undetermined.

Bubblehead1980

03-02-22, 04:43 PM

TMO Update BH V2.0
100 difficulty
Cams off, Map contacts off

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS BARB SS-220
WAR PATROL SEVEN
2 March-25 April 1944
LCDR J.R. WATERMAN, USN.

PROLOGUE

Returned Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H., from SIXTH War Patrol on 14 February 1944.
Entered yard for repairs and refit. Attack and Observation periscopes replaced as were
damaged beyond repair. All other repairs conducted. M/S 32 paint scheme applied to boat, and
new APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver installed. Sixteen MK 14-1A torpedoes loaded forward
and eight MK 18-1 torpedoes loaded aft on 1 March. Ready for sea 2 March.

NARRATIVE

2 March
___________

1700 Underway from Submarine Base Pearl Harbor in accordance with
COMSUBPAC Operation Order 41-44, in company with escort PC-463.

1753 Spotted PBY bearing 173 8000 yards (Aircraft Contact No.1)

1900 PC-463 detached. Signaled X GOD SPEED BARB X

1925 Trim Dive

1945 Surfaced

2000 Course 272 degrees Speed 15.5 kts en route Midway Island.

3 March
__________

0700 Dive

0730 Surfaced

1300- Conducted Dive, Gunnery, and Emergency Drills
1500

4 March
__________

0700 Dive

0730 Surfaced

0900- Torpedo Fire Control Drill
1000

1300 Dive drills.

5 March
__________

0800 Winds increased to twenty five knots. Sea state rough with 10-13 ft waves, whitecaps.
Canceled gunnery drills.

1230 Surprise diving drill

1300 Surfaced

6 March

Course 351 Speed 15 kts
Approaching Midway. Concern over entering channel
due to heavy seas. However, channel remains open.

0800 Dive

0815 Surface

1040 Seas calmed as came within sight of Midway Island.

1100 Rendezvoused with escort PC off Midway.

1135 Docked Midway Island.
Topped off fuel and provisions.

1631 Departed Midway for assigned area in company with PC escort.

1900 PC detached, turned back. Sent X WELL DONE X PC Replied X GOOD LUCK BARB X

7-9 March
___________

En route patrol area CLOSET.
Course 265
Speed 14 kts, slowed to 10 kts from just after dusk until dawn next day.
Daily routine of morning and evening trim dives.
Passage was otherwise uneventful.

10 March
___________

0838 APR-1 detected radar emissions bearing 340.

0840 SD contact 13000 yds, closing fast!
Appeared aircraft equipped with radar.
(Aircraft Contact No.2)

0841 Dive

0843 Leveled off at 150 ft

1130 Surfaced

11 March
__________

0900 Dive

0920 Surfaced

1936 SD contact 14177 yards closing!
Dive! (Aircraft Contact No.3)

1937 Leveled off 150 ft.

1938 Series of explosions, not close.

2200 Surfaced.

12 March
__________

0845 Dive

0900 Surfaced

1044 SD contact 32505 yds Closing.
(Aircraft Contact No.4)

1045 Dive

2142 Surfaced

13 March
____________

0840 Dive

0900 Surfaced

1101 SD contact 21200 yards
APR-1 detected emissions bearing 194.
(Aircraft Contact No.5)

1102 Dive

1449 Surfaced

14 March
__________

0900 Dive

0930 Surface

1221 Destroyer spotted! Bearing 272 16202 yards. (Ship Contact No.1)
Dive! SJ was between sweeps and powered off.

1224 Leveled off 150 ft, Rigged for Silent Running.

1315 Lost contact.

1320 Periscope/Radar depth. All clear.

1330 Surfaced

1331 SJ sweep clear. Believe DD was a patrol as current position has
BARB passing between Iwo Jima and Bonin Islands.

17 March
__________

0000 Arrived in area "CLOSET", initiated patrol along
reported shipping lanes.

1000 Dive

1020 Surfaced

18 March
__________

1000 Dive

1030 Surface

19 March
__________

1705 SD contact 21,250 yards closing.
(Airraft Contact No. 6)

1706 Dive

2200 Surfaced

20-25 March
__________

Patrol in area. Uneventful.

26 March
___________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

0014 SJ contact bearing 007 28,355 yards
Numerous pips, likely convoy, appears Northbound.
(Ship Contact No.2)

0015 Increased speed 18 kts to intercept.

0025 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

0026 Eight pips in two columns with one pip forward and one in rear, likely
escorts.

0050 Spotted convoy bearing 040 9000 yards.

0052 Contact Report sent to COMSUBPAC
Convoy Sighted 23-53N 131-47E
Estimated Course 066 degrees
Estimated Speed 9 kts.

0102 Lead escort is minesweeper.

0103 Spotted large Tanker similar to AKATSUKI MARU Class.

0105 Directly astern of AKATSUKI MARU was a mid sized tanker
similar to ICHIYU MARU Class.

0112 APR-1 detecting radar emissions from astern of convoy.
Rear escort appeared to have radar.

0117 Tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6 made ready to fire. Depth set for 8 ft.

0125 Fired Tubes 1,2,3 at ICHIYU MARU. Range 2893 yards.
Fired Tubes 4,5,6 at AKATSUKI MARU. Range 2500 yards

0127: Torpedoes 1,2,3 impacted ICHIYU MARU. Massive fireball and explosions
05-15 after second torpedo hit loaded tanker.

0127: Torpedoes 4,5,6 hit AKATSUKI MARU. First torpedo set off massive, skyward reaching fireball
25-35 engulfing the entire vessel. Second and third torpedo hits were somewhat redundant, but
further wrecked the vessel.

0138 During turned away, lead escort spotted BARB. BARB received some machine gun/Auto Cannon fire, few rounds heard
stringed aft , starboard. No damage. Escort continued pursuit as second escort, with its radar
signal sweeping BARB's area coming in fast. BARB making 21 kts plowing through seas to get away.

0145 Oddly, both escorts disengaged, returned to convoy.
BARB moved for end around and follow up attack.

0146 AO AKATSUKI MARU 11800 tons sunk
23-52N 131-47E

0150 AO ICHIYU MARU 5113 tons sunk
23-51N 131-47E

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

0247 Stern tubes brought to bear on convoy, approached
large AK which suddenly turned hard away at high speed.
BARB not detected, routine evasive maneuver. Switched setup on
small AK believed to be CHOKO MARU 1800 tons. Unable to set up
on others due to proximity to the radar equipped escort. APR-1
was buzzing at this time.

0250 Fired Torpedo Tube No. 10 at AK CHOKO MARU. 1950 yards.

0252 Torpedo impact! Large fire visible just forward of bridge structure.
Large hole visible forward. Vessel appeared to be sinking.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3

0307 CHOKO MARU out of range. Spotted mid sized AK similar to MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons
crossing stern of BARB.

0309 Fired tubes 7,8,9 at MOMOYAMA MARU. Range 2000 yards.

0313 Torpedoes missed!
Based on sound, missed just astern. Speed setting in TDC
was slightly too slow, perhaps should have been 5 kts instead of 4.5 kts.

0314 Pulled away from convoy to conduct torpedo reload as
all tubes empty after three attacks with seven out of ten torpedoes hitting targets.
Two tankers sunk, one AK damaged.

0315 APR-1 detected enemy radar emissions focusing on BARB's bearing. Escort, a unidentified DE type
began closing at high speed. BARB increased to flank speed.

0323 DE turned back to convoy.

0330 Secured General Quarters. Torpedo reload ordered, all tubes.

0400 Convoy changed course to 040 degrees.

0600 Torpedo reload completed.

0924 Regained contact with convoy. SJ contacts bearing 033 25,500 yards.

1011 Submerged for dawn periscope attack.

1045 Periscope depth, convoy zigged to NE, unable to attack.

1140 Convoy cleared area. Raised SD mast at periscope depth. SD contact 8000 yards steady.
Aircraft circling area covering convoy.(Aircraft Contact No.7)
Went to 100 ft.

1215 Periscope depth. Spotted BETTY bearing 310 6000 yards
circling area.(Aircraft Contact No.7-Visual ID)

1300 Surfaced. Searched for convoy, unable to regain contact.
While submerged winds increased to 30 knots direction 130.
Waves 15-20 ft. Skies clear.

27 March
__________

Patrol in area. Uneventful.
Rough seas persisted throughout the day

28 March
__________

Patrol in area. Uneventful.
Rough seas persisted throughout the day.

1100 Dive

1115 Surface

29 March
__________

Rough seas persisted throughout the day.

1100 Dive

1115 Surface

1515 SD Contact 21000 yards closing.
(Aircraft Contact No.8)

1650 Surfaced

1945 SD Contact 24000 yards closing.
(Aircraft Contact No.9)

1946 Dive.

2200 Surfaced.

30 March
__________

Rough seas persisted throughout the day.
Unventful.

31 March
__________
Rough seas persisted throughout the day.
Unventful.

1 April
__________

Winds slowed to 17 knots
Seas remained heavy.

2 April
__________

Winds remained at 17 knots direction 276.
Seas calmed somewhat compared to recent days.

1226 Passed ten nautical miles North of Kitadaito Island.

1919 SD Contact 29100 yards, closing.
(Aircraft Contact No.10)

1920 Dive

2200 Surfaced

3 April
_________

1100 Dive

1120 Surfaced

1805 APR-1 detected radar signals bearing 230.

1807 SD contact 11500 yards.(Aircraft Contact No. 11)
Dive.

2124 Surfaced

4 April
_________

1045 Dive

1100 Surfaced

1216 SD contact 29200 yards, closing.(Aircraft Contact No.12)

1218 APR-1 detected radar emissions bearing 067.
Dive.

1530 Surfaced.

5 April
_________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4

0023 SJ contacts bearing 345 27844 yards.
Turned to to 349 to intercept.

0032 Eight pips in two columns, one pip ahead, one rear.
Contact appears to be convoy likely on southern course, currently on zig heading east.
Closing for submerged attack as full moon does not permit night surface attack.

0037 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED

0042 Submerged for attack. 6000 yards starboard off convoy track, seven miles ahead of convoy.

0047 350 ft. Flank speed to close convoy for firing.

0105 Convoy zigged slight to NE, forcing a longer range shot.

0106 All forward torpedoes set to low power setting for long range shot.

0110 Convoy on course 071 Speed 9.5 kts

0114 Identified two mid to large AO in middle of second column on port side of convoy.

0116 Torpedo Tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6 made ready to fire.

0119 Fired tubes 1,2,3 at Target No.1. Range 4450 yards.
All torpedoes ran hot, straight, and normal.

0120 Fired tubes 4,5,6, at Target No.2. Range 4150 yards.
All torpedoes ran hot, straight, and normal.

0121 Began turn to port to bring stern tubes to bear.

0124 Torpedoes 1,2,3 impacted tanker as aimed.
First torpedo set off a massive explosion, fireball shot in air, quite visible through periscope.
Second and third torpedoes demolished what was left. Tanker left on fire bow to stern.

0125 Torpedoes 4,5,6 hit second tanker as aimed. Tanker did now explode as exploded initially,
but after about 40 seconds of burning, a massive fireball engulfed the obviously loaded,
but well constructed modern tanker.

0126 Forward and lead escort stopped, listening as had no idea where BARB was.

0129 Observed AO (Target No.1) sink.
Observed and confirmed by sound, escorts closing BARB fact.

0130 Ordered 350 ft. Rigged for Silent Running and Depth Charge.

0132 Sounds of vessels breaking up and exploding from last known bearing of both targets.

0140 Depth Charge explosions astern 3000-4000 yards.
No pinging. Enemy does not have contact with BARB.

0141 Pinging

0144 Enemy above.

0145 Splashes. DC explosions
BARB at 380 ft.

0146 Close DC explosions. Boat shaken.

0152 Pinging.

0156 Enemy above. Splashes.

0157 DC explosions. Tooth shakers.

0159 Enemy above. BARB at 393 ft.

0200 Splashes.

0201 More splashes. DC explosions. Boat shaken.

0213 Splashes. Enemy above.

0214 DC explosions. Damage reported aft torpedo room.

0217 Enemy above. Splashes.

0218 DC explosions.

0219 DC explosions. Serious damage reported(See MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE Section)

0224 BARB at 392 ft. Flooding in control room and forward torpedo rooms controlled.

0229 One enemy has gone silent, likely listening to see if he got the kill.
Second enemy escort heard fleeing area at high speed, likely to rejoin the convoy.

0707 Periscope depth. All clear.

0709 Radar Depth. All clear
Secured GQ, set regular watch and Damage Control Party.

0715 Surfaced. Ordered torpedo reload and pursuit course of convoy.
Seas calmed since dive. Full moon still out.

0720 Damage Control party assigned to:

1.Pump out remaining water in Forward Torpedo Room.
2.Repair Trim Pump
3.Repair No. 3 and No.4 torpedo tubes.
4.Repair Radio Transmitter

1801 All repairs completed.

6 April
__________

0000 Unable to locate convoy. Resumed normal patrol.

1030 Dive

1100 Surfaced

1118 SD contact 31500 yards. Steady. (Aircraft Contact No.13)

1120 SD range now 20,500 yards but steady. Turned course 350 to present stern and low profile.

1121 Aircraft switched on her radar. APR-1 detected emissions bearing 222.

1122 SD contact began rapidly closing.
Dive! Spotted a large flying boat astern, possibly H8K EMILY.

1124 Leveled at 150 ft.

1124: Series of explosions, above, astern. Aircraft dropped payload.
41

1126 More explosions, not close.

1200 Decided to remain submerged until dark, give crew chance for rest, study, and maintenance.

2300 Surfaced.

7 April
_________

Patrolled area.
Uneventful.

1045 Dive

1115 Surfaced

8 April
__________

1050 Dive

1115 Surfaced

2052 Spotted floating debris field b earing 255 1900 yards.
Turned course 090 to investigate.

2110 Examined wreckage. Found documents and life ring identifying
AO AKATSUKI MARU sunk on 26 March. Appears BARB passed near scene of her sinking some twelve days previous.

2111-2115 With AA guns manned while examined wreckage in case aircraft appeared, allowed some target practice by 20 and 40 MM guns
in the flotsam.

2116 Secured guns. Resumed course 210 for patrol.

9 April
_________

Patrol. Uneventful.

1045 Dive

1100 Surfaced

10 April
___________

Patrol. Uneventful.

1050 Dive

1115 Surfaced

1600 Thirty knot winds arrived with heavy seas, naturally.

11 April
___________

Patrol in area. Uneventful

1025 Dive

1045 Surfaced

12 April
_________

Final day in area.
Patrol.
Seas remained heavy, but later calmed.

1030 Dive

1050 Surfaced

1145 Winds lowered to 1 knot direction 327. Seas calmed, nearly flat.

2028 SD contact 26500 yards. Closing. (Aircraft Contact No.14)

2030 Dive

2115 Periscope Depth. Spotted large flying boat bearing 173. Likely Aircraft Contact No.14 backtracking on patrol.
Designated Aircraft Contact No.14-A. Ordered 150 ft depth.

2315 Periscope depth

2326 Surfaced

13 April
_________

0000 Set course 084 Speed 13.5 kts for Midway.

1030 Dive

1045 Surfaced.

14 April
__________

En route Midway

1025 Dive

1045 Surfaced

15 April
__________

En route Midway.

0930 Dive

0946 Surfaced

1848 SJ contact bearing 010 28255 yards
Two pips (Ship Contact No.4)

1904 Two DE, appears to be patrol.
Set shadow course 135 to pull ahead for submerged attack.
As was through DUNKERS DERP. A 'Wolfpack' assigned to area currently, sent contact report.

1905 Sent contact report to COMSUBPAC while working ahead for attack.
Task Force Sighted
25-27N 144-54E in area 'DUNKERS DERP'
Estimated Course 135 degrees
Estimated Speed 14 kts

1915 Received reply from COMSUBPAC.
Ordered to break contact, other boats will be routed to intercept.
Broke contact and continued course for Midway.

1959 Just prior powering on SJ radar for top of the hour sweep at
2000, sighted smoke on horizon bearing 343 estimated ten miles.
(Ship Contact No.5)

2000 SJ contacts bearing 330 20,253 yards.
Eleven pips, three believed to be escorts.

2005 Sent contact report to COMSUBPAC
Convoy sighted. 25-27N 144-59E
Estimated course 315 degrees
Estimated speed 9 kts

2011 Received reply from COMSUBPAC.
Ordered to break contact and return to base. Other boats
would be routed to attack.

2015 Escort began closing BARB, turned to course 270 at 15 kts to evade.

2030 Lone escort arrived in position BARB previously occupied, began circling, dropped depth charges.

2115 BARB back on base course for Midway.
Winds increased to 29 kts, churning up heavy seas.

16 April
____________

En route Midway

0900 Dive

0920 Surfaced

17 April
__________

0940 APR-1 detected radar emissions bearing 072
No SD contact but possibly flying low. No SJ contact.
Given proximity to Marcus Island and previous aircraft contact in this area, decided to submerged.
(Since no SD or visual, this was not listed as a Aircraft Contact)

0941 Dive

2222 Surfaced.
Winds calmed to 12 knots direction 109.
Waves calmed considerably.

18 April
__________

En route Midway

0900 Dive

0915 Surfaced

1256 SD contact 23000 yards closing
APR-1 simultaneously detected radar emissions.
(Aircraft Contact No.15)

1257 Dive

2100 Surfaced

19 April
___________

En route Midway

0800 Dive

0830 Surfaced

1256 SD contact 26000 yards closing.
(Aircraft Contact No. 16)

1257 Dive

2150 Surfaced

20 April
__________

En route Midway

0815 Dive

0831 Surfaced

21 April
__________

En route Midway

0815 Dive

0831 Surfaced

22 April
__________

En route Midway

0745 Dive

0801 Surfaced

23 April
__________

En route Midway

0640 Dive

0700 Surfaced

24 April
__________

En route Midway

0640 Dive

0700 Surfaced

25 April
___________

0655 Dive

0715 Surfaced

1011 Arrived Midway Island. Terminated War Patrol.

WEATHER

Weather during transit to and from and in area was overall pleasant. Several days of heavy winds with high winds
did plague BARB at at times, but overall weather was favorable.

NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

Marcus Island and Iwo Jima served as navigational aides during transit to and from area.
While in area, the Daito Island provided aid to navigation as well.

MINES

No mines were encountered.

CONTACTS

Contacts patrol Seven

AIRCRAFT CONTACTS
(at initial contact)

*All times are local*

NO.1
DATE 1944/03/02
TIME 1753
LAT 21-14N
LOG 158-11W
BRG 173
RNG 8000 yds
CRS 005
SPD 100 kts
ALT 600 ft
HOW Visual
TYPE PBY

NO.2
DATE 1944/03/10
TIME 0840
LAT 25-53N
LOG 164-12E
BRG 340*
RNG 13000 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW APR-1, SD
TYPE --

*APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver detected radar emissions bearing 340 two minutes before
SD contact. Bearing of radar transmissions supposed as bearing of aircraft.

NO.3
DATE 1944/03/11
TIME 1936
LAT 26-20N
LOG 157-0E
BRG --
RNG 14177 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

NO.4
DATE 1944/03/12
TIME 1044
LAT 26-13N*
LOG 154-22E*
BRG --
RNG 32505 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

*127 NM NNE of Marcus Island. Appears the thoughts regarding enemy
air operations at Marcus were premature.

NO.5
DATE 1944/03/13
TIME 1101
LAT 25-59N
LOG 151-2E
BRG 194*
RNG 21200 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD, APR-1
TYPE --
* Radar Emissions bearing on APR-1

NO.6
DATE 1944/03/19
TIME 1705
LAT 23-59N
LOG 131-14E
BRG --
RNG 21250 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

NO.7
DATE 1944/03/26
TIME 1140
LAT 24-44N
LOG 132-18E
BRG 310
RNG 8000 yds (at contact) 6000 yds (Visual)
CRS 177
SPD 130
ALT 1500 ft
HOW SD, Visual(later)
TYPE G4M BETTY
REMARK
Circling convoy in area Arrived just after dawn
obviously in response to attacks through the night.

NO.8
DATE 1944/03/29
TIME 1515
LAT 22-11N
LOG 131-24E
BRG --
RNG 21000 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

NO.9
DATE 1944/03/29
TIME 1945
LAT 22-14N
LOG 131-24E
BRG --
RNG 24000 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

NO.10
DATE 1944/04/02
TIME 1919
LAT 25-10N
LOG 131-50E
BRG --
RNG 29100 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

NO.11
DATE 1944/04/03
TIME 1807
LAT 24-09N
LOG 131-43E
BRG --
RNG 11500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

NO.12
DATE 1944/04/04
TIME 1216
LAT 23-33N
LOG 131-8E
BRG 067*
RNG 29200yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

*APR-1 bearing of radar emissions.

NO.13
DATE 1944/04/06
TIME 1118
LAT 21-47N
LOG 131-10E
BRG 222*
RNG 31500 yds
CRS --
SPD 150 kts
ALT 2000
HOW SD-Visual-APR-1
TYPE H8K EMILY

*APR-1 provided radar emissions bearing from plane.
Visual contact made on bearing prior to submerging.

NO.14
DATE 1944/04/12
TIME 2028
LAT 23-53N
LOG 131-39E
BRG --
RNG 26500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

NO.14-A
DATE 1944/04/12
TIME 2115
LAT 23-53N
LOG 131-39E
BRG 173
RNG 9500 yds
CRS 015
SPD 120 kts
ALT 1000
HOW Visual-Periscope
TYPE H8K EMILY
REMARK
Most likely same plane from Aircraft Contact No.14 backtracking on patrol.

NO.15
DATE 1944/04/18
TIME 1256
LAT 26-0N
LOG 156-50E
BRG 072*
RNG 23000 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

*Bearing derived from APR-1 NO.15

No.16
DATE 1944/04/19
TIME 1256
LAT 26-8N
LOG 158-25E
BRG --
RNG 26000 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

Ship Contacts
(at initial contact)

NO.1
DATE 1944/03/15
TIME 1221
LAT 25-5N
LOG 141-39E
BRG 272
RNG 16202 yds
CRS 025
SPD 14 kts
HOW Visual
TYPE DD-Momi Class
REMARK
30 NM NE of Iwo Jima, likely patrol
as was encountered in pass between Iwo Jima and Bonin Islands.

NO.2
DATE 1944/03/26
TIME 0014
LAT 24-0N
LOG 131-41E
BRG 007
RNG 28355 yds
CRS 066
SPD 9.5 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE AK,AK,AK,AK,AO,AO,AK,AK,AK MS,DE
REMARK
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3

NO.3
DATE 1944/04/05
TIME 0023
LAT 23-48N
LOG 131-21E
BRG 345
RNG 27844 yds
CRS 110
SPD 9.5 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE AK,AK,AK,AK,AO,AO,AK,AK, Escort, Escort
REMARK
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4

NO.4
DATE 1944/04/15
TIME 1848
LAT 25-27N
LOG 144-54E
BRG 345
RNG 28255 yards
CRS 135
SPD 14 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE DE-DE
REMARK
Patrol

NO.5
DATE 1944/04/15
TIME 1959
LAT 25-27N
LOG 144-59E
BRG 343
RNG 20,253yards
CRS 315
SPD 9 kts
HOW Visual-SJ
TYPE Convoy-9 AK, three escorts.
REMARK
Convoy. Possible the patrol (Contact No.4) was sweeping the area.

ATTACK DATA

USS BARB SS-220
WAR PATROL SEVEN
TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER ONE
DATE 1944/03/26 TIME 0125
LAT. 23-52N LOG. 131-47E

TYPE OF ATTACK

Night-Surface-TBT

Calm seas, no moon , no clouds, no fog.

SHIPS SUNK
AO AKATSUKI MARU 11800 tons
1944/03/26 0146
23-52N 131-47E

AO ICHIYU MARU 5113 tons
1944/03/26 0150
23-51N 131-47E

Verification-

Observed torpedo hits in both tankers. Both tankers erupted in massive fireballs,
surely the gasoline/oil cargo ignited by torpedo hits. Both vessels left flaming wrecks, burning
from bow to stern. Observed both vessels sink at stated times, as well as disappear from PPI
radar scope. Large patches of burning oil remained on surface at sites of sinking.

SHIPS PROBABLY SUNK
None

SHIPS DAMAGED
None

SHIPS PROBABLY DAMAGED
None

TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER ONE TARGET DATA (at firing)

TARGET NO. 1
CLASS AO AKATSUKI MARU
TONS 11800
DRAFT 26.2 ft
COURSE 066
SPEED 9.5 kts
BEARING 351
TRUE BEARING 155
RANGE 2500 yds
AOB 90 P
REMARK
Loaded Tanker, low in water.

TARGET NO. 2
CLASS AO ICHIYU MARU
TONS 5113
DRAFT 21 ft
COURSE 066
SPEED 9.5 kts
BEARING 015
TRUE BEARING 179
RANGE 2893 yds
AOB 76 P
REMARK
Loaded Tanker, low in water.

TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER ONE TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.232444
EXPLODER MK-6
SERIAL NO.21555
GYRO 04 L
COURSE 168
TRACK 87 P
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED High
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI Midships
MALFUNCTION
REMARK
Fired at Target No.2

TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.232445
EXPLODER MK-6
SERIAL NO.21556
GYRO 04 L
COURSE 168
TRACK 87 P
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED High
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI Midships
MALFUNCTION
REMARK
Fired at Target No.2

TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.232446
EXPLODER MK-6
SERIAL NO.21557
GYRO 04 L
COURSE 168
TRACK 87 P
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED High
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI Aft-below stack.
MALFUNCTION
REMARK
Fired at Target No.2

TUBE NO.4
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.232460
EXPLODER MK-6
SERIAL NO.21560
GYRO 338 L
COURSE 142
TRACK 106 P
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED High
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI Midships
MALFUNCTION
REMARK
Fired at Target No.1

TUBE NO.5
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.232461
EXPLODER MK-6
SERIAL NO.21561
GYRO 338 L
COURSE 142
TRACK 106 P
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED High
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA Aft-Stack
HIT Yes
POI Aft-Stack
MALFUNCTION
REMARK
Fired at Target No.1

TUBE NO.6
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.232462
EXPLODER MK-6
SERIAL NO.21562
GYRO 338 L
COURSE 142
TRACK 106 P
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED High
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI Midships
MALFUNCTION
REMARK
Fired at Target No.1

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH Surface
COURSE 179
SPEED 2.5 kts
ANGLE 0 up/down
SEAS Calm

__________________________________________________ ___________

USS BARB SS-220
WAR PATROL SEVEN
TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER TWO
DATE 1944/03/26 TIME 0250
LAT.23-55N LOG.131-53E

TYPE OF ATTACK

Night Surface-TBT

Clear skies, no moon, calm seas.

SHIPS SUNK
None

SHIPS PROBABLY SUNK

SHIPS DAMAGED

CHOKO MARU 1850 tons
1944/01/26 0252
23-55N 141-53 E

Verification-

Observed one torpedo hit. Large fire forward, vessel
forward section went lower in water, but did not sink, remained under own power.Fire extinguished. Pip remained on PPI radar scope.

SHIPS PROBABLY DAMAGED

TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER TWO TARGET DATA (at firing)

TARGET NO.1
CLASS AK CHOKO MARU
TONS 1850
DRAFT 12.1 ft
COURSE 064
SPEED 5 kts
BEARING 178
TRUE BEARING 159
RANGE 1950 yds
AOB 82 P
REMARK
Constant zig along base course.
Fired as target began zig to port towards BARB.
Decks loaded with crates
and one partially assembled aircraft.

TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER TWO TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.10
TYPE MK 18-1
SERIAL NO.234540
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.24993
GYRO 349 L
COURSE 329
TRACK 89 P
DEPTH 4 ft
SPEED Standard
INTERVAL 0
POA MOT
HIT Yes
POI Forward, just aft of fore mast.
MALFUNCTION
REMARK
Fire visible. Vessel did not sink.

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH Surface
COURSE 325
SPEED 3 kts
ANGLE 0 up/down
SEAS Calm
__________________________________________________ __________

USS BARB SS-220
WAR PATROL SEVEN
TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER THREE
DATE 1944/03/26 TIME 0309
LAT.23-55N LOG.131-53E

TYPE OF ATTACK

Night Surface-TBT

Clear, no moon, calm seas

SHIPS SUNK
None

SHIPS PROBABLY SUNK
None

SHIPS DAMAGED
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

Verification-
Torpedoes missed.

TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER THREE TARGET DATA (at firing)

TARGET NO.1
CLASS AK MOMOYAMA MARU
TONS 4037
DRAFT 12.1 ft
COURSE 063
SPEED 5 kts
BEARING 180
TRUE BEARING 156
RANGE 2000 yds
AOB 84 P
REMARK
Quick set up as target course change put her crossing our stern.
Constant zig along base course.
Fired as target began zig to port towards BARB.
Miss caused by speed error in TDC due to miscalculation.
Should have been set to 5 knots instead of 4.5 knots.

TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER THREE TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.7
TYPE MK 18-1
SERIAL NO.234542
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.24994
GYRO 351 P
COURSE 326
TRACK 86 P
DEPTH 4 ft
SPEED Standard
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT No
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK

TUBE NO.8
TYPE MK 18-1
SERIAL NO.234543
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.24995
GYRO 351 P
COURSE 326
TRACK 86 P
DEPTH 4 ft
SPEED Standard
INTERVAL 5 Seconds
POA MOT
HIT No
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK

TUBE NO.9
TYPE MK 18-1
SERIAL NO.234548
EXPLODER MK 8
SERIAL NO.24997
GYRO 351 P
COURSE 326
TRACK 86 P
DEPTH 4 ft
SPEED Standard
INTERVAL 5 Seconds
POA MOT
HIT No
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH Surface
COURSE 325
SPEED 3 kts
ANGLE 0 up/down
SEAS Calm
__________________________________________________ ______________

USS BARB SS-220
WAR PATROL SEVEN
TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER FOUR
DATE 1944/04/05 TIME 0119
LAT. 23-43N LOG. 131-33E

TYPE OF ATTACK

Submerged-Periscope-Night

Full moon, clear, calm seas.

SHIPS SUNK

AO Unknown 5000 tons (Target No.1)
1944/04/05 0129
23-44N 131-33E

AO Unknown 7000 tons (Target No.2)
1944/04/05 0132
23-44N 131-33E

Verification-

Observed torpedoes hit both tankers, which erupted in massive fireballs as their
volatile fuel/oil cargo ignited by torpedo impacts. Visually observed Target No.1
sink. Observed Target No.2 on fire and low in water. At 0132 hours sound report, and also audible through hull of
boat of ship breaking up. Noises were from last bearing of Target No.2.

SHIPS PROBABLY SUNK
None

SHIPS DAMAGED
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None

TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER FOUR TARGET DATA (at firing)

TARGET NO.1
CLASS AO (Unknown)
TONS 5000
DRAFT 24 ft
COURSE 071
SPEED 9.5 kts
BEARING 337
TRUE BEARING 326
RANGE 4450 yds
AOB 77 S
REMARK
Loaded Tanker

TARGET NO.2
CLASS AO (Unknown) Possibly HAKKO MARU
TONS 7000
DRAFT 28 ft
COURSE 071
SPEED 9.5 kts
BEARING 357
TRUE BEARING 356

RANGE 4150 yds
AOB 92 S
REMARK
Loaded Tanker

TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER FOUR TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.1
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.23551
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.22671
GYRO 354 R
COURSE 344
TRACK 93 S
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED Low
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
MALFUNCTION
REMARK No
Target No.1

TUBE NO.2
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.23552
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.22672
GYRO 354 R
COURSE 344
TRACK 93 S
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED Low
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
MALFUNCTION
REMARK No
Target No.1

TUBE NO.3
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.23553
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.22673
GYRO 354 R
COURSE 344
TRACK 93 S
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED Low
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
MALFUNCTION
REMARK No
Target No.1

TUBE NO.4
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.23554
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.22674
GYRO 14 R
COURSE 004
TRACK 109 S
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED Low
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Target No.2

TUBE NO.5
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.23554
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.22674
GYRO 14 R
COURSE 004
TRACK 109 S
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED Low
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Target No.2

TUBE NO.6
TYPE MK 14-1A
SERIAL NO.23555
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO.22675
GYRO 14 R
COURSE 004
TRACK 109 S
DEPTH 8 ft
SPEED Low
INTERVAL 5 seconds
POA MOT
HIT Yes
MALFUNCTION No
REMARK
Target No.2

OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 350
SPEED 2.5 kts
ANGLE 1-down
SEAS Calm

__________________________________________________ _________

ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Anti-Submarine Countermeasures

Enemy ASW in area was conducted mainly via air patrols, encountered on a near daily basis.
Nearly all were radar equipped. Distress calls for convoys under attack at night brought in
radar equipped air support at dawn. APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver installed during refit after last patrol
proved a great asset in mitigating effects of these patrols.

North of Wake and Marcus Island air patrols equipped with radar harassed BARB daily during transit to and from
patrol area.

One enemy escort vessel was known to be equipped with radar, which proved useful in providing some idea of BARB's location on surface.

A patrol of two DE type vessels encountered on en route from patrol area East of Iwo Jima in
area DUNKERS DERP (see contacts) produced radar emissions detected by APR-1. Both vessels
appeared to have radar. Both enemy convoys attacked on this patrol had what no appears to be the standard two escorts, one forward, one aft, with each making
sweeps. All merchant vessels appear to be armed, some heavily.

Depth Charge attack experienced by BARB on this patrol was fairly standard by proved effective in damaging
the boat. After sinking two tankers via periscope at night, submerged. Each escort, unaware of BARB's location stopped and listened.
BARB was at least 4500 yards from each but their search detected us. Both vessels rushed our location. BARB was at 350 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge, when first depth charges exploded, well astern of us, apparently the escorts attacked a false contact.

However, a few minutes later pinging began and BARB was located. Each escort took turns in rapid succession making depth charge attacks.
These escorts are believed to have the improved depth charges encountered on recent patrols.
After several tooth shaking patterns, a closer one caused serious damage (see MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE) to BARB, but all was repaired in due course at sea.

However, again a fatal flaw in Japanese ASW escorts, is to give up too soon. After the pattern that damaged,
enemy seemed to give up as one was heard rushing away to rejoin convoy. Other went silent, likely to listen for BARB.
BARB crept away at 390 feet, with water in control room and forward torpedo room. This flooding plus a damaged trim
pump made depth control a challenge at times, requiring some extra speed. A one point BARB descended to 404 feet.

Overall, enemy sonar gear, depth charges, and ASW tactics have dramatically improved in recent months.

Evasion

Evasion for BARB was standard with previous patrols. BARB, if detected by aircraft, upon surfacing would change
course and speed to thwart any searches along course steered when detected.APR-1 was found to often detect aircraft, if their radar sets were on, before SD radar detected them.
This provided early warning and a dive was made at least once when SD failed to detect what was believed a low flying
radar equipped aircraft.

Evasion of enemy depth charges was made with utilizing thermal layers, frequent speed bursts, course,
and depth changes.

Evasion of enemy following night surface attack consisted of turning away slowly during torpedo run
and just moments before, ordering flank speed and departing area, at times under fire.

MAJOR DAMAGE AND DEFECTS

No major material defects.

Damage

Depth Charge Attack No.1

BARB suffered serious damage during depth charge attack, but all damage was repaired at sea.

1.Flooding in control room and bilges due to numerous busted sea valves.
One foot of water in compartment.

2.Flooding in Forward Torpedo Room due to shear dogs on hatch, leaks in damaged
torpedo tubes, and busted sea valves. Two foot of water in compartment.

3. No.3 Torpedo Tube

4. No.5 Torpedo Tube

5. Trim Pump

6. Hydraulic Pump

7. Forward Batteries

8. Aft Batteries

9. Compressor

10. Radio Transmitter

11. No.2 Electric Motor

12. No.4 Electric Motor

13. Dives Planes Transmission-Bow and Stern

14. Fuel Oil Tank-Leak

15. Compressed Air Reserve- Twenty five percent of capacity lost due to damage,

but repaired and replenished.

16. Leaks in piping and vales throughout all compartments

17. Leaks in high pressure air lines throughout all compartments.

18. Glass fixtures and light bulbs in all compartments

RADAR

SJ

SJ Radar performance was overall excellent. Typical
detection range of surface targets was 25000 yards.

SD

SD Radar performance was overall acceptable. Typical detection
range was 12000 yards.

Enemy

Enemy air based surface search radar appears to have a range of at least 30000 yards.
Enemy aircraft do not always have the set active, but appear to alternate on and off searching area.
Night flying aircraft tend to keep radar on at all times as those encountered in hours of darkness on this patrol previous demonstrated behavior as such. On this patrol APR-1 was able to confirm presence of radar.

Enemy escorts equipped with radar did not appear as effective was was on surface and within 5000 yards of enemy escort producing radar emissions and was not detected, until after torpedo impact. Submarines are,
as we know difficult targets to detect. Likely a operator on watch noticed BARB's small pip on their scope only after alerted by exploding
tanker vessels.

RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

APR-1 proved a effective tool on this patrol, often providing indication of bearing of a
aircraft contact, at times before SD even detected their range.

APR-1 detected ship based radar as well and proved vital to the success of this patrol.

SOUND CONDITIONS AND GEAR

Conditions

Sound conditions in area were overall excellent. Hydrophones could track enemy
precisely about 5000-7000 yards and distant noises could be heard at great distance.
These conditions no doubt assisted enemy in his effect depth charge attack.

Sound Gear

Sound gear functioned well overall in conjunction with the optimal conditions.

Enemy

Enemy sound gear appeared improved as were able to hear BARB at 4500+ yards
when running at just 95 RPM following Torpedo Attack No.4 and located her
with active sonar at 350 ft of depth, rigged for silent running.

RADIO

Radio function was optimal for most of patrol. Serious damage
to radio transmitter during depth charge attack did have lasting effects
in spite of our talented radioman's best efforts to repair completely.
Function was restored by not satisfactory for remainder of patrol.

No enemy radio transmissions or signals were detected on this patrol.

THERMAL LAYERS

One thermal layer was detected at 209 feet.

PERSONNEL

Crew performance was once again excellent on this patrol. Eleven men advanced in rating while
two officers and eight men earned qualification.

HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Health and morale of the crew remained excellent throughout the patrol.
Meals were well prepared, certainly helping maintain these conditions along with
mostly calm, almost yachting seas and weather. Sinking of four enemy tankers
certainly kept morale high as well.

Only minor injuries such as bumps, bruises, and scrapes were suffered during depth charge attack.

MILES STEAMED-FUEL USED

Pearl to Midway
1350 miles 18550 gallons

Midway to Area
3350 miles 53865 gallons

In Area
7200 miles 99455 gallons

Area to Midway
3750 miles 57344 gallons

DURATION

Days

Pearl to Midway 4

Midway to Area 11

In Area 26

Area to Midway 12

Days Submerged 4

Total 57

FACTORS IN ENDURANCE

Torpedoes 8

Fuel 26864 gallons

Provisions 37 days

Reason for termination of patrol:

Fuel level. Time on station expired per orders.

REMARKS

A busy and challenging, but successful patrol, my final in command as will be relieved upon return to port.
Depriving the enemy of four large, valuable ,loaded, Northbound tankers and their precious fuel oil cargo was the proverbial "cherry on top" for this patrol. While it is regrettable were not able to expend last eight
torpedoes, it is understood the nature of operations as BARB was transiting another's area and accordingly followed orders.
BARB is a excellent boat, with a top notch crew that will no doubt have further success.

J.R. Waterman

(See above for screenshots)

Bubblehead1980

03-02-22, 04:53 PM

https://i.postimg.cc/DfM4VB5y/MSchasing.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/cJh6FmrW/nightexpl1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/TwP1FDDD/nightscope1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/W3fzv1Gf/nightscope2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/3N4RJQ9r/nightscope3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/2ys519XQ/nightscope4.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/44qy2nNY/nightscopeexplos7.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/SN9sBqJD/nightscopehakkomarutanker.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/HkCxHKMH/nightscopestarshells.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/NMLGpv38/nightscopetankerbigexplos.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/DZDvNYh9/nightscopetannkerbigexplso2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/7ZMLLV1z/nightship1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/2yZkNF8V/nightshiptwobinco.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/w3Y6qy7F/oilfire1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/KckB861g/PBY.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Qxc7pck8/tankerburn7.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/mZvMzm9p/tankers4.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/kgctH9pL/tankers5.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/q7vCVSfq/tankersburning.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/SxqMVjDW/tankersburning2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/j5GWfjDn/tankersfire1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/NMy9LXjw/tankersfire2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/MG3fW5xD/tankersfire3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/fymVfhd2/tankersiknk1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/gcZLW37V/tankersplitburning.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/ZKzBKCk1/TDC1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/5N5HHbbj/TDCnight.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bubblehead1980

03-02-22, 04:59 PM

https://i.postimg.cc/yd7cdxS1/0000.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/VvVCDFZv/afttbtsun.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/wjJmQLXx/Barbbridgeview.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/rpNRvTZv/barbdawn.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/hvjmLYrN/Chokomaruonfire.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/y6Qc1V6K/debris1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/PrCZNBNw/debris2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/DyRGGBbY/debris3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/cJS89ChR/debrisgun1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/2yM14S3B/dusk1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/rmyRTHvz/Emilyscopedistant.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/26HbSwDG/fire3.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/NF5y9HGc/fullmoon.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/1zsf0TRM/Hawai-Dusk1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/P5mCwhHP/Hawaidusk2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/pX5hPz1Q/Horizonsmoke1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/9Q3400v6/mooonset.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bubblehead1980

03-02-22, 05:05 PM

coldDynamic

03-04-22, 01:45 AM

I've been getting comfortable with SH4 after being a long-time SH3 player, and I've been reading old patrol logs and the background history of the American sub campaign and decided to write a patrol log in the style of the "narrative" reports that were forwarded to command after a patrol was completed.

I left out a few sections which were standard in this style of log, namely miles steamed, days on station and the fire control data for each attack as I forgot to log these initially and didn't want to restart the patrol - I'll remember for next time.

There are likely a few minor errors but I hope it's an enjoyable read nonetheless. I'm just playing FOTRS without too many extras at this stage, it's a bit of fun getting creative with the photos and making it look like a typewriter-written report as it would have been in the 1940s.

Played at 98% realism, external camera off but left map contacts on while I still learn the ins and outs. I left the images full size for the best resolution, just zoom your browser out to 60-80% if the scrolling takes to long.

This career assumes USS Sawfish returned from the boat’s second war patrol earlier than the historical date of June 1943 and places it's return in May of that year, and that the historical skipper of Sawfish at this time, Lt. Cmdr E.T Sands, was transferred - therefore command of Sawfish is taken up by the fictional Lt. Cmdr J.P Salinger by June 1943 for the third war patrol.

https://i.ibb.co/s9hJwPf/Log-Page-1.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/mG4MRLN/Log-Page-2.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/Krzj0s3/Log-Page-3.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/crRpWH6/Log-Page-4.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/7KQgBp7/Log-Page-5.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/Z8cSVfn/Log-Page-6.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/SmJMZ6t/Log-Page-7.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/GcyLjx6/Log-Page-8.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/QpjFqZy/Log-Page-9.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/CJzpm21/Log-Page-10.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/NsgKjCP/Log-Page-11.jpg

Aktungbby

03-04-22, 02:03 AM

coldDynamic!:Kaleun_Salute:

Bubblehead1980

03-04-22, 02:15 AM

Bubblehead1980

03-06-22, 01:19 AM

U.S.S. BARB-Report of Eighth War Patrol
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(A) PROLOGUE:

April 25 Arrived Midway after Seventh War Patrol.
_________

April 26-May 11 Normal refit accomplished by SubDiv 61 relief crew and Sub Base Midway.
_______________ An excellent job.

April 28 Commander John R. Waterman was relieved as Commanding Officer by
________ Lt. Comdr. Eugene B. Fluckey. Received two new Submarine School
graduates.

May 14-18 Conducted training exercises. Fired five torpedoes.
Fired all deck guns. Training facilities were excellent
and well coordinated.

May 19-21 Twenty four MK 14-3A torpedoes were loaded aboard with
required provisions for patrol. Ready for sea 21 May.

(B) NARRATIVE:

May 21
_______

1530 Departed Midway in accordance with Operation Order No. 164-44.

1830 Trim Dive

1845 Surfaced.

May 22
_______

Course change to 303 degrees en route assigned area in Sea of Okhotsk.

May 23
_______

Commenced daily training of section dives,drills, fire control drills,
enlisted school for qualification, Officers school or department qualification.

Winds increased to 21 knots direction 109 with 6-8 ft waves.

May 24
_______

En route patrol area.
Uneventful.

May 25
________

En route patrol area.
Uneventful. Solid fog set in.

May 26
_______

En route patrol area.
Uneventful.

May 27
________

En route patrol area.
Barometer took a dive, overcast and fog.
Temperature dropped to 44 F. Winds 13 knots direction 209.
Choppy seas.

May 28
________

En route patrol area.
Moderate fog. Winds increased to 25 knots direction 130.
Seas heavy. Temperature continued to drop as BARB progresses towards the higher latitudes of her assigned area.

May 29
________

En route patrol area.
Uneventful.

May 30
________

0745 APR-1 detected radar emissions bearing 004.

0746 SJ contacts bearing 006 28,355 yards. Two pips. (Ship Contact No.1)

0811 Contacts are to DE type vessels in patrol line. Avoided contact, continued en route area.

2353 Transited Rikord Strait, Kuril Islands, entered patrol area in Sea of Okhotsk.Sent message to HERRING, GOLET for rendezvous morning of 31 May.

31 May
________

0037 Received reply from HERRING regarding rendezvous at 1000 hours.
GOLET had yet to reply.

0714 Iceberg sighted bearing 330 six miles.
47-48N 152-11E

0850 SJ contact 349 14470 yards. Contact believed to be HERRING OR GOLET as near rendezvous point.
Began cautious approach. (Ship Contact No.2)

0929 Dive. Decided to conduct submerged approach due to low visibility.

0940 Received ULTRA and ACTION for BARB, HERRING< GOLET for
coordinated attack. Convoy departed
MATSUWA this morning at 0630. G

0955 Confirmed contact is HERRING. Surfaced.

1000- Conducted meeting regarding coordinated attack. GOLET failed to acknowledge message or
1030 make rendezvous.

1400 Did not locate convoy at expected location. Set search course along
Matsuwa-La Perouse line at 18 kts.

1438 HERRING reported contact and attacking convoy.
Set course 220 to intercept.

1557 SJ contact bearing 318 27955 yards. (Ship Contact No.3)
Four pips. Set pursuit course.

1630 Smoke sighted bearing 280. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-
SUBMERGED

1640 Submerged for attack. Went to depth 350 ft for high speed range to
close for firing.

1705 Periscope depth. During ascent to periscope depth, convoy zigged to
205 away from BARB.
Convoy is three AK with one frigate or MS type escort. One AK in rear
appears damaged, likely from
HERRING's earlier attack. AK has large hole aft and stack and slight list.

1725 Convoy zigged back towards BARB. Closed at high speed at 250 ft.

1740 At periscope depth, convoy zigged further away.

1750 Secured GQ. Due to radical zig making obtaining a suitable submerged
shock unlikely. Decided to trail convoy until dark for night surface
attack.

1805 Surfaced. Shadowed convoy at range of eleven miles off port side.
Contact Report sent to COMSUBPAC and for action to HERRING, GOLET.

1900 Convoy zigs roughly every 10-15 minutes, radically.

2355 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

June 1
_______

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

0100 Astern of convoy at 6000 yards, awaited next zig to close in for attack.

0104 Convoy zigged, moved for attack.

0119 Readied all bow tubes. No.1-6

0123 Fired tubes 1,2,3. at lead AK KOTO MARU. Range 2550 yards.

0124 Torpedoes 1,2,3 all hit target. Large explosions. Vessel began to settle in water.

During turn away from convoy came under heavy fire from merchants. BARB illuminated by star shells.
Escort attempted to chase but did not have speed to catch BARB.

0130 AK KOTO MARU 4466 tons sunk at 47-54N 151-29E.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

0212 Closing on AK MADRAS MARU

0216 Fired tubes 4,5,6 at AK MADRAS MARU. Range 2000 yards.
Torpedo (Tube 6) went on erratic track to port. Likely gyro failure.
Other two torpedoes ran hot, straight, and normal.

0217 Two torpedoes hit MADRAS MARU. Large fire visible, vessel lost water, settled in war.

During turn away came under intense machine gun fire from MADRAS MARU.
Escort about 4000 yards away hunting, closed in at high speed. Area illuminated with star shells.
BARB turned away to evade closing escort. Several shells splashed ahead abut 100 yards from escort.

0232 MADRAS MARU dead in water.

0233 Forward tubes ordered reloaded.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2-A

0302 Fired Tube No.1 at MADRAS MARU. Range 5200 yards.

0306 Enemy escort bearing 304 dropping depth charges. Explosions heard, water columns from explosions observed.
5000 yards.

0307 Torpedo impact!

0308 MADRAS MARU sinking. Opened range to 10000 yards. Stopped.
Fog lifted, with moonlight and phosphorescence, further surface action
not possible. Early Arctic dawn approaching in less than two hours.
Secured GQ, finished torpedo reload, allow crew to stand easy.
Waited for pip of MADRAS MARU to disappear, if does not, will approach
to finish off. Once vessel went down, decided to end around to finish off
the remaining AK, previously damaged by HERRING.
No word from HERRING nor GOLET in response to contact report.

0318 Pip disappeared. Visually observed MADRAS MARU 3790 tons sink at
47-54N 151-27E

0430 Dawn breaking, moving for end around.

0711 Regained SJ contact after end around.
SJ contacts bearing 339 28544 yards.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3

0715 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED

0725 Smoke sighted ahead bearing 000. Convoy closing BARB. Submerged for attack.

0742 AK zigged away to SSE course. AK is RYUSEI MARU, previously damaged by HERRING.

0815 AK zigged back towards BARB. Heard distant explosions. Escort not in sight, possibly attacking (or being attack!) by HERRING/GOLET

0834 "Crossed the T" of the AK for stern shot.

0842 Fired Tubes 7,8,9 at RYUSEI MARU. Range 928 yards.

0843 Torpedoes

0844 Torpedo 1(Tube 7) hit the bow, Torpedo 2(Tube 8) missed just ahead, Torpedo 3(Tube 9) hit
bow of target. Adjusted TDC speed to 5 knots and fired Tube 10.

0845 Torpedo hit target amidships.

0846 Target one fire, sinking by her bow.

0854 RYUSEI MARU 6538 tons sunk at 47-56 N 151-01 E

0855 Surfaced. Lone SJ pip bearing 240, presumed to be escort. Set course 150 to close.

0904 Spotted escort stationary/dead in water at 1252 yards.
Submerged for approach and attack.

1054 Periscope depth. Target at 9000 yards appears dead in water, difficult to ascertain in fog.
Returned 100 ft for approach, rigged for silent running.

1135 Thermal layer at 100 ft. Set depth for 105 ft.

1140 Sound has noises of escort ahead. Escort is stationary.

1230 Escort dead in water at 6000 yards, bearing 000.
Returned to 105 ft for approach.

1332 Tubes 3,4,5,6 made ready to fire.

1333 Vessel identified as a Shimushu Class Escort Vessel.

1344 Periscope depth.

1350 Fired Tube 3 at Shimushu Class Escort (Type A) . Range 1600 yards.

1352 Torpedo ran below vessel. Secured GQ, went to 100 ft.
Vessel's propulsion obviously disabled (external cam shows props and rudder blown off,
surely by AI sub aka HERRING's torpedoes) decided would surface after dark
and use deck gun to sink vessel, in lieu of possibly wasting more torpedoes on shallow draft vessel.

GUN ACTION NO.1

2247 GENERAL QUARTERS-BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION

2344 Surfaced.

2346 Opened fire range 6500 yards.

2337 Hit

2338 Direct hit amidships. Large explosion and cloud of flames short into air, engulfing entire vessel.

2356 Ceased fire. Target on fire bow to stern, sinking.

2357 Shimushu Class Type A Escort Vessel860 tons sunk at 47-51N 151-09E

2359 Secured GQ. Set course to West, away from scene of days actions.

June 2
________

1329 SD contact 30380 yards, steady.
(Aircraft Contact No.3)

June 3
________

0000 Winds picked up from 1 knots to 27 knots direction 274 as BARB found herself
in a Arctic Gale. Naturally, heavy seas with 10-13 ft waves accompanied the winds
making for a cold, wet, miserable night time topside.

June 4
________

Winds calmed to 14 knots direction 068 with 4-5 ft waves
Temperature in area was a crisp 29 degrees.

Patrolling center Okhotsk Sea.

1250 SD Contact 24000 yards, steady.(Aircraft Contact No.4)

1252 SD contact began closing fast.
Submerged to avoid.

1254 Leveled off 150 ft.

1439 Surfaced.

2258 SD contact 20,200 yards, steady. (Aircraft Contact No.5)

2300 SD contact began closing fast.
Submerged to avoid.

2303 Leveled off at 150 ft.

2351 Surfaced into well lit sky with brilliant full moon.

June 5
________

1539 SJ contact bearing 059 23,500 yards. (Ship Contact No. 4)
Single pip.

1540 Ordered course 065 18 kts to intercept contact.

1556 Smoke sighted bearing 009 estimated eight miles.
GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED

1557 Submerged for attack.

1610 AK on course 256 9 kts. Tubes 1,2,3,4 made ready to fire.

1625 AK identified as mid sized Soviet-Russian merchant vessel. Flag clearly
observed.
Outer doors on tubes ordered closed.

1630 After a decent fire control drill on a actual vessel, ordered 150 ft and
secured GQ.

1726 Surfaced.

June 6
________

15-20 ft seas 30 knot winds, moderate fog.

0600 In spite of best efforts, have been unable to contacts group members for several days.
Have had no contact with HERRING since 31 May and no contact with GOLET at all since entering area.

1317 SD contact 27400 yards, steady. (Aircraft Contact No.6)

June 7
_______

Seas and winds calmed.
Uneventful.

June 8
_______

Uneventful

June 9
________

Uneventful

June 10
________

0000 Set course for Patience Bay area of Karafuto to investigate reports
of Japanese shipping using coastal routes a long Russian portion of
Karafuto Island for cover.

11 June
________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.5

Winds at 20 knots direction 059.
Choppy seas.

1734 SJ contacts bearing 349 24304 yards.
(Ship Contact No.5) Ordered speed to full and intercept course 115.

1744 Smoke/ship spotted bearing 347 estimated 8 miles.
GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO SUBMERGED

1746 Submerged for attack.

1757 Sound contact on two merchant vessels. Bearing 280, closing.

1803 Contacts two AK on course 260 10 kts.

1810 Contacts on course 260 11.5 kts. Two small AK. Larger of two leading.
Trailing AK too small, too shallow draft for torpedo in rough seas as fish would likely miss.
Lead AK looks to draw about 18 ft, suitable for attack.

1819 Ahead flank for speed burst to close range to ideal firing position.

1820 Motors All Stop. Up scope.
Fired Tubes 3,4 at ZUIKAI MARU . Range 1000 yards.

1821 Both torpedoes impacted ZUIKAI MARU.Forty seconds after last impact,a massive explosion followed by fireball. Ship engulfed in flames.
Sinking.

1822 Second AK turned toward BARB's scope firing. AK is similar to CHOKO MARU 1800 tons.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.6

1825 Snap shot at second AK. 700 yards.

1826 Torpedo impact! Massive explosions, BARB shaken.
Multiple secondary explosions. AK must have been transporting ammunition.

1827 ZUIKAI MARU sunk at 48-23N 144-47E

1837 CHOKU MARU 1850 tons capsized at 48-23N 144-47E
Observed one man in a small life raft leave vessel just before she rolled over.

1839 Surfaced to see if could rescue the lone survivor, perhaps for info.

1845 Closed on life raft, now empty. Possible occupant was swept overboard in heavy seas.
Set course to depart area.

1850 Secured GQ. Set course for Northern Sea of Okhotsk NorthEast towards Paramushiru Island.

12 June
________

Submerged at 0700 and remained at 300 ft most of day for crew rest and to conduct
maintenance. Surfaced at 1925 into overcast skies, moderate fog, 29 knt winds at dirction 269, with
16-20 ft waves.

June 13
_________

1400 250 NM East of Kamchatka Island searching for
Japanese traffic taking the Northern route through Soviet waters.
Heavy seas and winds remain with overcast.

June 14
_________

Around 0830 BARB found herself in a Arctic Gale. Heavy precipitation and fog joined
the already terrible weather situation.

1625 Skies cleared, heavy winds and seas remained.

June 15
________

Seas and winds died down. Seas remained with a strong roll and chop.

1700 As began to approach Paramushiru from Northwest, seas increased with 18-20 ft waves.
Winds 29 kts direction 119.

1900 APR-1 detected radar emissions bearing 090.

June 16
_________

0347 15 miles West of Parmushiru Island.
Seas calmed with 5-6 ft waves as eased closer to shore.

0412 Submerged before dawn for inshore patrol 10 NM West of Paramushiru.
Depth under keel was 285 ft.

0413 Passed thermal layer at 90 ft.

0512 Periscope depth. Spotted Paramushiru Island bearing 330 distance 5 miles.

0600- Sighted numerous small craft and fishing boats in the area throughout the morning.
1200

1330 As moved into strait between Paramushiru and Taketomi Island
seas increased to heavy state with a strong fog blanketing the area.

1841 Observed aircraft bearing 266 6500 yards estimated. (Aircraft Contact No.7)
Ordered 150 ft.

1937 Finally able to observe Taketomi Island in fog break bearing 280 estimated 14000-16000 yards.

2322 Surfaced into heavy seas.

June 17
________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 7

0123 SJ contact bearing 335 27340 yards. (Ship Contact No. 6)
Set course 223 Flank speed to close contact.

0220 Contact on estimated course 225 at 10 kts. BARB astern of contact, moving up at six miles to pass
port side for end around.

0245 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

0325 Contact identified as Chidori Class Torpedo Boat

0328 Readied all bow tubes 1,2,3,4,6. Depth set to 5 ft.

0335 Fired Tube No. 6 at Chidori Class Torpedo Boat. Range 3006 yards.

0337 Torpedo impact in bow of vessel! Vessel slowed, fired star shells and searchlight illuminated area.
BARB submerged.

0338 Depth 100 feet. Passed thermal layer at 91 feet.

0350 Periscope depth. Vessels bow severely damaged but afloat.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.7-A

0443 Dawn, BARB trailing 5000 yards astern of damaged Chidori. Perfect position for a
"Up the Kilt Shot"

0520 Fired Tube No. 4 "Up the Kilts" from 5200 yards.

0525 Torpedo missed, slide down the side port side of Chidori, scraping paint.
At these times, we miss the megnatic detonators.

0530 Secured GQ. Went to 95 feet. Surfaced for end around
after range with Chidori opened.

0600 While moving for end around, Chidori suddenly turned to port and opened fired, several rounds splashed 100 and then 50,
and 25 yards from BARB. BARB submerged to 150 ft and closed at high speed.

0625 Sudden heavy fog, rain, heavy seas set in. Unable to visually locate target.
Surfaced.

0800 In spite of SJ sweeps, SJ could not locate target.
Sound could not locate vessel, nor could visually locate.
For a moment, it was thought possible vessel subccumed to her wounds. However,
as last she was seen underway and in control,
she was logged as damaged.

0815 SJ regained contact with Chidori (presumed)
BARB set course to intercept.

0823 Rains ceased, fog lifted, leaving a light haze in area.

0825 Contact at 12000 yards.

0827 SJ contacts bearing 280 21,500 yards.
Two pips (Ship Contact No.7)

0830 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED

0844 Observed two pips merged on single pip (Chidori) 9000 yards ahead.
Pips began patrolling in general area. Obviously, these were called in
after Chidori radioed for help. BARB worked ahead to dive and approach.

0851 SD contact range 14500 yards closing! (Aircraft Contact No.8)

0852 BARB submerged.

0900- Multiple sweeps with raised SD mast showed aircraft in area, withing 20000 yards.
1200 Aircraft providing cover. SJ sweep showed other two pips remaining within 10000 yards of damaged Chidori as they proceeded
off south end of Paramushiru.

1300 Surfaced for end around.

1311 APR-1 detected radar signals bearing 300.
SD contact (Contact No.8) began closing fast.
Apparently our airedale friend turned his radar on and picked up BARB

1312 Dive!

1314 Level at 150 ft. Heard multiple explosions above.

1315 Another series of explosions.

1341 Sound reported warship contacts bearing 345 closing fast!
Seems the airedales called in the DD and DE escorting the damage
Chidori.
BARB rigged for silent running and depth charge. Went to 300 ft.

1354 Warships arrived in area searching.

1402 One passed about 1000 yards from BARB (Estimated).
Pinging heard, briefly. Escort moved on.

1411 Heard multiple depth charge explosions astern.

1900 Lost contact with enemy.
Secured GQ, Silent Running.

2200 Surfaced.

June 18
_________

0015 Seas calmed, fog lifted.
Winds slowed to 4 knots direction 327.
Seas-light chop.

June 19
_________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 8

2043 SJ contact bearing 020 26500 yards.
(Ship Contact No.8) Multiple pips indicated convoy.
Set intercept course at 20 kts.

2052 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED.

2055 Late afternoon haze/fog set in.

2059 Convoy zigged to port on NE heading.

2108 Submerged for attack.

2158 Tubes 1,2,3 made ready to fire.

2206 Fired tubes 1,2,3. Range 1100 yards.

2207 All three torpedoes impacted ARISAN MARU.
Large fires started followed by several secondary explosions.
Vessel left burning, settled in water.

2208 Both forward and aft escort closing.
Long scale pinging from aft escort began.
Ordered 350 ft, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

2212 Escort above. DC explosions after splashes. Not close.

2214 Sounds of vessel breaking up sinking. ARISAN MARU 7827 tons sunk.

2215 More DC splashes. Explosions close. Minor damage.

2220 Close DC explosions. Damaged reported. (See DEFECTS AND DAMAGE)

2232 Boat shaken. Close DC explosions.

2245 Close DC. Damage reported. Water in control room, forward torpedo.

2302 Close DC. Tooth shakers.

2310 Both enemy escorts heard heading back for convoy at high speed.
Perhaps convinced of a kill.

2330 Lost sound contact with enemy.

June 20
__________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 9

0040 Periscope/Radar Depth. All clear.

0045 Secured Silent Running. Surfaced for end around.

0105 SJ Radar has pip at 11,500 yards bearing 340. Likely escort hanging back.
Avoided.

0117 Regained SJ contact with convoy bearing 315 24,500 yards.

0332 off convoys port track at 3200 yards. Flooded down to 25 ft to reduce visibility
in oddly bright, yet non moonlight night. Dawn is approaching.

0345 Identified last large AK in port column as KENYO MARU.

0346 Tubes, 7,8,9,10 made ready to fire.

0347 KENYO MARU suddenly change course to join opposite column, presenting poor solution.
Large AK ahead similar ot HIYAMA MARU class presented better set up. Switched targets.

0348 Fired Tubes 7,8,9,10 Range 2050 yards. All torpedoes expended.

0353 All torpedoes missed. All torpedoes expended. Broke contact.

0400 Secured GQ. Sent status report. Set course for Pearl Harbor.
Somewhat disconcerting that have not heard from pack mates HERRING since 1 June and GOLET at all since
entering area.

0500 At dawn seas grew rough with 25 knot winds direction 176.
A heavy overcast with moderate fog set in.

2100 Exited Sea of Okhotsk.

June 21-July 1
_____________

En route Pearl Harbor.
Conducted clean up of boat and schools for qualification
for Officers and Enlisted.
Passage was otherwise uneventful with daily routine.

2104 SD contact 17000 yards closing. Aircraft Contact No.)

July 2
_________

0545 Oahu visible in dawn light bearing 300.

0915 Docked Submarine Base Pearl Harbor. Terminated war patrol.

(C) WEATHER:

Weather in area varied, and was typical for this time of year in the polar circuit.
Some days featured cold, clear, air, light winds and calm seas, others featured high winds, rough seas,
heavy fog and cloud cover. Fog seemed to settle in and lift instantly throughout the days.

Short Arctic nights usually featured abundant moonlight. Roughest seas and weather were encountered in higher latitudes West of Kamchatka Island.

(D) CONTACTS

Aircraft Contacts
___________________

No.1

DATE1944/05/21
TIME 1601
LAT 28-10N
LOG 177-20W
BRG 010
RNG 7500
CRS 100
SPD 100 kts
ALT 600 ft
HOW Visual
TYPE PBYx12
REMARK
Returning strike staging through
Midway

No.2

DATE1944/05/22
TIME 0400
LAT 28-20N
LOG 179-30W
BRG 172*
RNG 12550 yds
CRS 290
SPD 120 kts
ALT 1000 ft
HOW SD-Visual
TYPE PBY
REMARK

Attempted to exchange recognition signals, but none were returned.
Instead, aircraft made a dive towards BARB. Only a quick dive saved us from the
depth bomb/charges. Explosions caused damage.

* Initial contact was SD, bearing obtained visually.

No.3
DATE 1944/06/02
TIME 1329
LAT 49-50N
LOG 149-0E
BRG --
RANG 30,380 yds, steady.
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Contact range stayed steady, then opened until lost contact at 32000 yards.

No.4
DATE 1944/06/04
TIME 1250
LAT 49-14N
LOG 147-29E
BRG --
RANG 24,000 yds, steady. *
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Contact range stayed steady, then rapidly began to close, prompting a dive.

No.5
DATE 1944/06/04
TIME 2258
LAT 49-1N
LOG 148-17E
BRG --
RANG 20,200 yds*
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Contact range stayed steady, then rapidly began to close, prompting a dive.

No.6
DATE 1944/06/07
TIME 1317
LAT 49-57N
LOG 149-9E
BRG --
RANG 27,400 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.7
DATE 1944/06/16
TIME 1841
LAT 49-57N
LOG 149-9E
BRG 266
RANG 6,500 yds
CRS 065
SPD 150 kts
ALT 1000
HOW Visual-Periscope
TYPE Twin engine Bomber, likely G4M-BETTY
REMARK
Patrol likely returning approaching nearby runway on island, spotted in fog via periscope.

No.8
DATE 1944/06/17
TIME 0851
LAT 50-11N
LOG 154-48E
BRG --
RANG 14,500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD-Contact
TYPE --
REMARK
Aircraft called in after dawn to assist damaged Chidori.

No.9
DATE 1944/07/01
TIME 2104
LAT 22-0N
LOG 158-43W
BRG --
RANG 14,500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Contact likely patrol plane out of Oahu.

Ship Contacts
______________

No.1

DATE 1944/05/30
TIME 0746
LAT 45-54N
LOG 154-55E
BRG 006
RNG 28355 yds
CRS 175
SPD 14 kts
HOW SJ*
TYPE DE,DE.
REMARK
Patrol just south of Kuril Islands.

* APR-1 detected radar transmissions prior to SJ contact.

No.2

DATE 1944/05/31
TIME 0850
LAT 47-53
LOG 152-19E
BRG 006
RNG 14470 yds
CRS 090
SPD 0
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE HERRING SS-233
REMARK
Scheduled rendezvous. SJ made initial contact.

No.3
DATE 1944/05/31
TIME 1557
LAT 48-19N
LOG 152-22E
BRG 318
RNG 27955 yds
CRS 210
SPD 11 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE AK,AK,AK, MS/Escort
REMARK
Convoy on radical zig plan every 10-15 minutes.
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2-A
TORPEDO ATTACK No. 3
TORPEDO ATTACK No. 4
GUN ACTION No. 1

No.4
DATE 1944/6/05
TIME 1539
LAT 48-54N
LOG 149-1E
BRG 059
RNG 23,500 yds
CRS 256
SPD 9 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AK (
REMARK
USSR AK, roughly 6000 tons.

No.5
DATE 1944/6/11
TIME 1734
LAT 48-28N
LOG 144-44E
BRG 349
RNG 24,304 yds
CRS 260
SPD 11.5 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AK, AK
REMARK
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.5
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.6

No.6
DATE 1944/6/17
TIME 0123
LAT 50-38N
LOG 155-4E
BRG 335
RNG 27,340 yds
CRS 225
SPD 10 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE Chidori Torpedo Boat.
REMARK
Torpedo Attack No.7
Torpedo Attack No.7-A

No.7
DATE 1944/6/17
TIME 0123
LAT 50-10N
LOG 154-45E
BRG 280
RNG 21,500 yds
CRS 225
SPD 20 kts
HOW SJ
TYPE DD,DE
REMARK
One DD, and one DE, apparently called in from Paramushiru to assist damaged DE
as arrived on scene at high speed just after dawn.

No.8
DATE 1944/6/19
TIME 2043
LAT 50-23N
LOG 154-45E
BRG 020
RNG 26,500 yds
CRS 045
SPD 9 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK, Escort,Escort
REMARK
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 8
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 9

(E) ATTACKS

TORPEDO ATTACKS

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 0123 DATE 1 June 1944 LAT.47-54N LOG.151-29E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

One AK, part of three ship convoy with one escort. Convoy made radical zigs throughout day on base course 250 T, preventing
submerged attack. After dark trailed at 6000 yards astern until zig back towards BARB permitted to close into firing range.
Radar bearings and observations throughout afternoon provided accurate speed and course. AK was lead in the single column of three.
Decided to target lead as a zig was expected soon. Fired on TBT bearings from range of 2550 yards at five second intervals.

SHIP SUNK:

KOTO MARU 4476 tons
47-54 151-29E
0130 1 June 1944

DAMAGE DETERMINED BY:

Observed all three torpedoes hit, igniting fires and blowing a large, visible hole at and
above waterline amidships .Observed vessel sink at 0130.

Target draft: 21.3 ft Course: 200 AOB 90 P Speed: 11 kts Range: 2550 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 014 Target True Bearing: 306 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Night Surface

Tube No.Fired 1
Track Angle 90 P
Gyro Angle 1 L
Torpedo Course 293
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 406554
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 31311
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No. 99345
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Diverget
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Midway

Tube No.Fired 2
Track Angle 90 P
Gyro Angle 1 L
Torpedo Course 293
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 406554
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 31311
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No. 99345
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Diverget
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Midway

Tube No.Fired 3
Track Angle 90 P
Gyro Angle 1 L
Torpedo Course 293
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 406554
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 31311
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No. 99345
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Diverget
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Midway

Remarks:
Somewhere between 50-100 survivors seen in water, vessel obviously was transporting passengers, likely troops.
Came under heavy machine gun fire from AK in column astern of target. No damage.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ ___

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO'S.2 and 2A. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 0302 DATE 1 June 1944 LAT.47-54N LOG.151-27E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

ATTACK NO.2

Follow up attack on convoy after sinking lead vessel. Vessels initially scattered but returned to a loose formation
with escort astern about 4500 yards, guarding, searching. BARB slipped past him to come around to starboard side
and set up on AK MADRAS MARU, the closest target. Fired three torpedoes from 2000 yards via TBT bearings.
Third torpedo (Tube No.6) went on erratic track to port.

ATTACK NO.2-A

Coup de grace to finish off the crippled AK and ensure her sinking. Due to presence of escort,
fired from reloaded Tube No.1, range 5200 yards.

SHIP DAMAGED: (Attack No.2)

AK MADRAS MARU 3790 tons

Observed two torpedoes hit, large fire burned profusely.
Observed target go dead in water.

SHIP SUNK (Attack No.2-A)

AK MADRAS MARU 3790 tons
47-54N 151-27E
0318 1944/06/01

DETERMINED BY:

Observed torpedo hit, vessel listed to starboard. Observed vessel sink visually and
pip disappear from radar scope.

Target draft: 25.6 ft Course: AOB 100 S Speed: 4.5 kts Range: 2000 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 000 Target True Bearing: 300 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Night-Surface

Tube Number Fired 1
Track Angle 93 S
Gyro Angle 4 R
Torpedo Course 263
Depth Set 4 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404331
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39244
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.9914
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 2
Track Angle 93 S
Gyro Angle 4 R
Torpedo Course 263
Depth Set 4 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404331
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39244
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.9914
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 3
Track Angle 93 S
Gyro Angle 4 R
Torpedo Course 263
Depth Set 4 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic Yes
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404337
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39249
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.9914
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Remarks:

Vessel left on fire and dead in water but afloat, required Attack 2-A for the coup de grace.
Third torpedo initially fired, which ran erractic, would have completed the job.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2-A

Target draft: 25.6 ft Course: 310 AOB 90 S Speed: 0 kts Range: 5200 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 000 Target True Bearing: 220 (at firing)

Tube Number Fired 1
Track Angle 90 S
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 263
Depth Set 4 ft
Power Low
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404342
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39249
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.9991
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ ______

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 0842 DATE 1 June 1944 LAT.47-56N LOG.151-01E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Remaining vessel of three ship convoy previously attack. Vessel damaged by HERRING in previously
attack on 31 May. List correct but a large visible hole at waterline was visible on starboard side.
Vessel continued on radical zig plan, which thwarted BARB's initial approach, but held out for zig back towards,
which came as expected. Closed at high submerged speed to obtain firing position. Encountered unescorted, as escort was several
thousand yards astern dead in water, possibly attacked by HERRING.Elected to cross the bow of the AK at
5000 yards in order to be off her starboard track for stern shot. Fired three torpedoes from stern tubes
on periscope bearings. Target changed speed slightly or alerted by torpedo wakes slowed to began evasive turn
turn. This caused two torpedoes to hit forward near the bow, with one missing ahead.
Fired Torpedo tube No. 10 after slight data adjustment.

SHIP SUNK

AK RYUSEI MARU 6538 tons
47-56N 151-01E
0854 1944/06/01

DETERMINED BY:

Observed three torpedoes hit target.
Observed target burn profusely and sink by the bow.

Target draft: 15.4 ft Course: 335 Speed: 11 kts* AOB 77 P Range: 928 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 182 Target True Bearing: 085 (at firing)

Target speed adjusted to 5 kts for Torpedo 4 (Tube 10).

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 7
Track Angle 77 P
Gyro Angle 346 L
Torpedo Course 249
Depth Set 5 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404355
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39255
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.10104
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 3 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 8
Track Angle 77 P
Gyro Angle 346 L
Torpedo Course 249
Depth Set 5 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404356
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39257
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.10104
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 3 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 9
Track Angle 77 P
Gyro Angle 346 L
Torpedo Course 249
Depth Set 5 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404358
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39258
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.10016
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 3 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 10
Track Angle 78 P
Gyro Angle 348 L
Torpedo Course 251
Depth Set 5 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404359
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39267
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.10024
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 3 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

One lifeboat observed in water. Initial firing stack, fore mast, and aft mast
were points of aim for respective torpedoes. Target was previously damaged by torpedo hit but still
required three more torpedo hits to being her down. The two torpedoes to her bow left bow wreck Well constructed vessel.

__________________________________________________ _______________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 1350 DATE 1 June 1944 LAT. 47-52N LOG. 151-9E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Damaged Shimushu Type A Escort Vessel, dead in water. Believe propulsion damaged by
HERRING's previous attack. Fired Tube No.1 at range of 1600 yards.

SHIP SUNK
None

Target draft: 9.7 ft Course: 244 Speed: 0 kts AOB 88 S Range: 1750 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing:000 Target True Bearing: 150 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 1
Track Angle 85 S
Gyro Angle 357 R
Torpedo Course 148
Depth Set 5 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404382
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39282
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.101013
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 3 Seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Torpedo run below keel. Vessel does seem high in the water. Propulsion damaged as unable to get underway, even
after a visible torpedo wake passed below.

__________________________________________________ ______________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 1820 DATE 11 June 1944 LAT.48-23N LOG.144-47 E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Small AK sailing in concert, unescorted, with another small AK rounding Cape Naka Shiretoko, Karafuto Island
about 15 nautical miles off shore, sailing into Patience Bay.

SHIP SUNK
ZUIKAI MARU 2427 tons
1827 1944/06/11
48-23N 144 47E

DETERMINED BY:

Observed two torpedo hits on vessel.
Large fire and explosions. Observed vessel sink.

Target draft 20 ft Course: 260 Speed: 11.5 kts AOB 110 Range: 1000 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 0 Target True Bearing: 175 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 3
Track Angle 109
Gyro Angle 17 S
Torpedo Course 192
Depth Set 9 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404400
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 393400
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.101040
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 2 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Heavy swells
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 4
Track Angle 109
Gyro Angle 17 S
Torpedo Course 192
Depth Set 9 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404401
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 393401
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.101041
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 2 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Hravy swells
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Fired two torpedoes 2 seconds apart aimed at stack of small AK. Both torpedoes hit closer to bow, nearly blowing front of the
ship off. A delayed, enormous explosions occurred about 35 seconds after second torpedo hit. Vessel sunk quickly, no survivors observed.
__________________________________________________ ______________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 1350 DATE 1 June 1944 LAT. 47-52N LOG. 151-9E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Damaged Shimushu Type A Escort Vessel, dead in water. Believe propulsion damaged by
HERRING's previous attack. Fired Tube No.1 at range of 1600 yards.

SHIP SUNK
None

Target draft: 9.7 ft Course: 244 Speed: 0 kts AOB 88 S Range: 1750 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing:000 Target True Bearing: 150 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 1
Track Angle 85 S
Gyro Angle 357 R
Torpedo Course 148
Depth Set 5 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404382
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 39282
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.101013
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 3 Seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Torpedo run below keel. Vessel does seem high in the water. Populsion damaged as unable to get underway, even
after a visible torpedo wake passed below.

__________________________________________________ ______________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 1825 DATE 11 June 1944 LAT.48-23N LOG.144-47 E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Small AK sailing in concert, unescorted, with another small AK rounding Cape Naka Shiretoko, Karafuto Island
about 15 nautical miles off shore, sailing into Patience Bay. Fired two torpedoes from 1000 yards.

SHIP SUNK
ZUIKAI MARU
1820 1944/06/11
48-23N 144 47E

DETERMINED BY:

Observed two torpedoes hit vessel, causing a delayed, massive explosion forty seconds
later. Fireball engulfed the vessel and when subsided, vessel was on fire bow to stern
and went down quickly. No survivors observed.

Target draft 20 ft Course: 260 Speed: 11.5 kts AOB 110 Range: 1000 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 0 Target True Bearing: 175 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 3
Track Angle 109
Gyro Angle 17 S
Torpedo Course 192
Depth Set 9 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404400
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 393400
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.101040
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 2 seconds
Type Spread Single bearing
Sea Conditions Heavy swells
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 4
Track Angle 109
Gyro Angle 17 S
Torpedo Course 192
Depth Set 9 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404401
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 393401
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.101041
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 2 seconds
Type Spread Single bearing
Sea Conditions Heavy swells
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Fired two torpedoes 2 seconds apart aimed at stack of small AK. Both torpedoes hit closer to bow, nearly blowing front of the
ship off. A delayed, enormous explosions occurred about 35 seconds after second torpedo hit. Vessel sunk quickly, no survivors observed.
Second AK fired at BARB's scope and turned to ram at her best speed in the heavy seas.
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _____

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 6. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 1825 DATE 11 June 1944 LAT.48-23N LOG.144-47 E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Small AK sailing in concert, unescorted, with another small AK rounding Cape Naka Shiretoko, Karafuto Island
about 15 nautical miles off shore, sailing into Patience Bay. After sinking lead AK in Attack No.5, target fired guns at BARB's scope and appeared to be charging for ramming,
but then presented favorable angle at just 700 yards. Quickly calculated a "snap shot" and
fired one torpedo at the 1800 ton AK from 700 yards.

SHIP SUNK

CHOKO MARU
1825 1944/06/11
48-23N 144 47E

DETERMINED BY:

Observed torpedo hit vessel, causing a instantaneous, massive explosion and fireball which engulfed into vessel.
Large hole at and blew waterline visible starboard side, just forward of bridge structure. Vessel likely
carried ammunition given the manner in which it exploded. Observed vessel capsize and sink.

Target draft 12.1 ft Course: 272 Speed: 5-6 kts AOB 110 Range: 700 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 0 Target True Bearing: 156 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 5
Track Angle 77 S
Gyro Angle 7 S
Torpedo Course 154
Depth Set 6 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 404444
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 393444
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.101044
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 2 seconds
Type Spread Single bearing
Sea Conditions Heavy swells
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Explosion of ships ammunition cargo was truly awe inspiring. Due to short range, boat was shaken
and many thuds heard against BARB's hull, no doubt sounds of debris and shockwaves,
which continued even after vessel capsized.

A dramatic scene was observed via periscopes, when just as vessel was capsizing, a life raft, with one occupant deployed into the heavy swells, just seconds before it was too late.

BARB surfaced to recover this lone survivor for intel, but raft was empty when surfaced, apparently swept overhead into
the heavy seas when his raft was swamped.

__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 7. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 22 DATE 19 June 1944 LAT.-N LOG.-E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Contacted a lone Chidori Class Torpedo Boat on course 225 at 10 knots in heavy seas.
Completed end around and fired one torpedo from 3000 yards.

SHIP DAMAGED

Chidori Class Torpedo Boat
50-18N 154-44E
0337 1944/06/17

DETERMINED BY:

Observed torpedo hit forward in bow of target. Torpedo
was aimed at midships area, but target slightly slowed, likely
due to headwinds and waves. Target slowed after torpedo hit.

Target draft 10.5 ft Course: 225 Speed: 9.5 kts AOB 91 P Range: 3006 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 011 Target True Bearing: 306 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 6
Track Angle 103 P
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 294
Depth Set 5 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415449
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398937
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13154
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 0
Type Spread --
Sea Conditions Rough
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Torpedo impacted bow, severely damaged the Chidori but
target remained underway.

__________________________________________________ ___________________________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.7-A

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 7-A. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 0520 DATE 17 June 1944 LAT.50-11N LOG.154-39E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Follow up to Attack No. 7 on damaged Chidori Torpedo Boat. Fired
one "up the kilts" shot from 5200 yards astern at dawn.

SHIP SUNK
None.

Target draft 10.5 ft Course: 2 Speed: 4.5 kts AOB 180 Range: 5250 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 000 Target True Bearing: 224 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Dawn-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 4
Track Angle 180
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 211
Depth Set 3.5 ft
Power Low
Hit or miss
Erratic
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415454
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398973
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13165
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 0
Type Spread --
Sea Conditions Rough
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Torpedo missed and passed down the port side of target, scraping paint.
Times like these, magnetic detonators would be useful.

__________________________________________________ ______________________________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 8

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 2206 DATE 19 June 1944 LAT.48-58N LOG.151-53

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:
Convoy with seven AK, two escorts on ENE course.

SHIP SUNK

AK ARISAN MARU 7827 tons
8-48N 151-53E
2214 1944/06/19

DETERMINED BY:

Observed three torpedoes hit target. Target caught fire
and settled in water. Multiple explosions heard, sounds of
ship breaking up audible. Upon surfacing spotted large debris field
at site of attack.

Target draft 29.5 ft Course: 045 Speed: 10.5 kts AOB Range: 1050 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing:000 Target True Bearing:332 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Dusk-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 1
Track Angle 115 S
Gyro Angle 024 R
Torpedo Course 345
Depth Set 10 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415474
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398989
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13187
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 4
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 2
Track Angle 115 S
Gyro Angle 024 R
Torpedo Course 345
Depth Set 10 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415426
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398961
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13131
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 4
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 3
Track Angle 115 S
Gyro Angle 024 R
Torpedo Course 345
Depth Set 10 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415411
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398241
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13199
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 4
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Torpedoes fired with about 20 divergent yard spread along length of target points aim were MOT, Fore mast, Aft Mast.

__________________________________________________ _______________________________________________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 9

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 9 PATROL NO. 8.

TIME 0348 DATE 20 June 1944 LAT.49-21N LOG.152-15E

TARGET DATA--DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Follow up night surface attack on convoy. Conducted end around and off port track. Targeted large AK KENYO MARU which suddenly signaled
and switched to opposite column. Switched to large AK similar to HIYAMA MARU 7145 tons. Fired
last four torpedoes from tubes 7,8,9,10 on divergent spread, aimed at MOT, MOT, Fore mast, Aft mast from range
of 2050 yards.

SHIP SUNK

None. Torpedoes missed target.

Target draft 24.6 ft Course: 014 Speed: 5 kts AOB Range: 2050 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 185 Target True Bearing: 142 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube Number Fired 7
Track Angle 84 P
Gyro Angle 359 L
Torpedo Course 316
Depth Set 10 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415431
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398931
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13193
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 4
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 8
Track Angle 84 P
Gyro Angle 359 L
Torpedo Course 316
Depth Set 10 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415432
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398932
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13194
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 4
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 9
Track Angle 84 P
Gyro Angle 359 L
Torpedo Course 316
Depth Set 10 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415433
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398933
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13194
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 4
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

Tube Number Fired 10
Track Angle 84 P
Gyro Angle 359 L
Torpedo Course 316
Depth Set 10 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 415437
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 398938
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13197
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 4
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub-Base Midway

REMARKS:

Enemy increased speed after firing or solution had a half knot speed error, causing torpedoes to miss.
Divergent spread fired should have accounted for this, but torpedoes still missed.

GUN ACTIONS

USS BARB (SS220) GUN ACTION N0.1. WAR PATROL NO.8.

DATE: 1 June 1944 Time: 2346-2357
LAT. 47-51N LOG. 151-09E

DESCRIPTION:

Shimushu Type A Escort vessel, damaged by previous torpedo attack of
U.S.S. HERRING (SS-233) sometime on 1 June. Vessel was immobilized, possibly due to loss
of prop. Attempted to finish vessel off with torpedo but draft too shallow was vessel was not in ballast.
After nightfall, closed to 6000 yards and opened fire with Four Inch Fifty Caliber deck gun.
Sixty out of 150 rounds aboard were expended. Sixteen direct hits and eight near misses, left the vessel a
flaming wreck, bow to stern. Vessel sunk within one minute of ceasing fire. No survivors were observed.
Due to lack of return fire or visible acitiy it is believed all aboard were killed when third hit amidships, set off
a massive explosions. Round either struck unarmored fuel reserve or possibly ammo reserve.

SHIP SUNK

Shimushu Class Type A Escort Vessel 860 tons
47-51N 151-09E
2357 1944/06/01

GUNNERY FIRE CONTROL DATA GUN ACTION NO.1 (at firing)

Target Bearing: 030
Target True Bearing:342
Target AOB: 80 P
Target Range 6000-5800 yards
Target Course 235
Target Speed 0

Rounds Expended:

60 4" 50 Caliber
Type-HE

Hits 16-direct
8-near

Point of Aim: Amidships-Waterline

Malfunctions- None

Shells remaining after attack:

4" 50 Caliber HE x 90

40mm HE x 2000

20mm x HE 2000

Gun Crew:

Gunnery Captain

Ltjg J.W. Reeves, USN.- Director-Gunnery Officer

CFC L.J. Brendle, USN.-Poiter

TM1c C.A. Tomzyck, USNR.-Trainer

TM2c J.A. Salantai, USNR-Shellman

TM2c R.W. Roark, USNR.-Ammo Train

GM3c B.M. Murphy, USN.-Ammo Train

GM3c J.H. Petrasanus, USN.-Ammo Train.

Casualties: None.

(F) NAVIGATIONAL AIDES:

Spotted enemy lights and shore batteries on Cape Shiretoko, Karafuto Island.

Paramushiru and Taketomi Islands provided for excellent aides to navigation,
although no lights were spotted.

(F-1) HAZARDS TO NAVIGATION:

Several icebergs were spotted throughout the area.

1.47-48N 152-11E
2.53-0N 153-0E
3.51-0N 146-0E
4.51-40N 144-02E

(G) MINES:

No enemy mines were encountered on this patrol.

(H) THERMAL LAYERS:

Thermal layers were detected at 90 ft, 91, ft, 100ft, and 200 ft.
Majority of area did not feature thermal layers, a concentration of them
were found off Karafuto and Parmushiru Islands.

(I) ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTER MEASURES AND EVASION:

Enemy ASW in area featured patrols by aircraft across the open ocean. Closer to the islands,
namely the harbors warship patrols were encountered. A impressive coordinated response occurred on 17 June
in response to the Chidori's reports of being torpedoed by BARB SSW of Paramushiru. Arrival of a DD
and DE, along with air support certainly prevented BARB from being able to close in for the coup
de grace.

Depth charge attack of 19 June was intense, accurate, albeit short lived. Considerable damage was done
by two skilled escorts. Impressive, large patterns were laid with variation in depth settings. Each escort took
in somewhat rapid succession. One tactic encountered was for one escort to run "up the spine" of BARB, while other crossed our bow,
with both laying impressive patterns to trap BARB one large shock wave. This tactic seemed to be used at least twice
and BARB suffered damage both times, including flooding. Once again, the Japanese escorts propensity I have read of in numerous reports,
to give up the attack early provided welcome relief.

Evasion was conducted by rigging for silent running, use of speed bursts at ahead full or flank for 25-30 seconds
once escort passes above to drop, frequent course and depth changes. When at 395 feet, a powerful pattern of charges
above BARB pushed her to 407 feet.

(J) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE:

No major material defects.

Damage

BARB suffered serious damage during depth charge attack. All damage
was repaired at sea
over course of 72 hours unless otherwise noted.

Damage:

1. Flooding-Forward torpedo room. Busted valves and lines repaired. 2 ft
of water pumped out.
2. Flooding-Control Room. Busted valves and lines repaired. 1 ft water
pumped out.
3. WCA Sonar Stack in conning tower jarred lose, rendered inoperable rest
of patrol.
4. Forward Batteries
5. Compressor
6. Trim Pump
7. Rudder Transmission
8. No.1 Diesel
9. No.3 Diesel
10. JP Sonar Head-Deck Mounted
11. Radio Transmitter
12. SJ radar antenna.
13. Piping and water lines throughout boat.
14. High Pressure Air Lines in all compartments.
15. Light bulbs-all compartments.
16. Glass fixtures-all compartments.

(K) RADAR:

SJ

SJ performance was overall excellent.
Average target detection range was 22,000 yards.

SD

SD performance was adequate with typical
detection ranges at 18000 yards.

(L) SOUND CONDITIONS AND SOUND GEAR:

Sound conditions in the area were generally poor.
Sound gear function was limited to damage in depth charge attack.

(M) TIDAL INFORMATION:

Tides were typical for the area this time of year.

(N) RADIO:

Radio function was excellent until damaged in depth charge attack.
After repairs, function was hit or miss, so to speak.

(O) COORDINATED ATTACK GROUP OPERATIONS:

Attempt to coordinate attack proved difficult after initial
attack on convoy. One member of group (HERRING) made a attack while
BARB was jockeying for position on 31 May, damaging one AK and
crippling the convoys lone escort,
which BARB later sunk by gunfire. After this attack there was no further
communication from HERRING and no communication with GOLET was
never established in the assigned area.

(Real life note on the wolfpack: HERRING was sunk by shore batteries off
Matsuwa in the Kuril Islands
on 1 June 1944,vafter sinking the frigate Ishigaki and a merchant of the
convoy in question on 31 May.
BARB would go on to sink the other two. GOLET disappeared all together
without a word, any trace.
GOLET's CO, LCDR Clark had told LCDR Fluckey of BARB he would start his
patrol off South
Eastern Hokkaido. BARB would learn from a rescued Japanese merchant
seaman that there were mines laid
in that area. BARB attempted to warn GOLET, but never received a reply.
GOLET is believed to have struck a mine and sunk.
Another source says was sunk by Japanese escorts on June 14 1944 in sea
of Okhotsk.)

(P) PERSONNEL:

Crew performance was excellent on this patrol, as demonstrated
by sinking of six enemy merchant vessels, one warship, and severely damaging another warship.

As this is BARB's eight patrol, large crew turnover is anticipated during next refit period. Two new officers with no patrol experience, fresh from Submarine School reported aboard at Midway. New
"Old Hands" trained them well to takeover on next patrol.

One Officer and twelve men qualified on this patrol.
Eight men advanced in rating.

(Q) HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Health and Habitability were overall excellent on this patrol.
Rough Arctic seas and temperatures made for difficulties at times,
but crew pulled together and overcame these challenges.

Food was well prepared and of high quality.

Minor injuries such as scrape, bumps, bruises were suffered as result of depth charge attack.

(R) MILES STEAMED-FUEL CONSUMED

Midway to Area
2300 miles 37564 gallons

In Area
7500 miles 102644 gallons

Area to Pearl Harbor
3632 miles 78555 gallons

(S) DURATION
DAYS

Midway to Area 10.5

In area 20

Days Submerged 2

Area to Pearl Harbor 11

Total 41.5 days

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE

Torpedoes: 0

Fuel: 19244 gallons

Provisions 41 days

Crew Indefinite

Reason for termination of patrol:

All torpedoes expended.

(U) REMARKS:

With six merchant vessels and one warship sunk for estimated 28000 tons, with another warship severely damaged,
BARB's EIGHTH patrol, my first in command was a unabashed success. Crew, boat, and torpedo performance
were excellent. Commanding Officer does regret was unable to conduct more coordinated attacks
with group members. Commanding Officer takes responsibility for the miss of BARB's last four torpedoes due to
speed error. For that, a large merchant vessel managed to escape sure destruction. Noted for future patrols on how to avoid such incidents.

E.B. Fluckey

Bubblehead1980

03-06-22, 04:27 AM

https://i.postimg.cc/GtN0Z9Fr/battlearea.png (https://postimages.org/)

Patrol area.

https://i.postimg.cc/T2HXyNZS/brokenmorale.png (https://postimages.org/)

Crew morale was listed as "broken" or "shaken" for many after a severe depth charge attack.

https://i.postimg.cc/Gh8nvJRp/Chidoribow.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bow of Chidori hit by torpedo. Night surface attack from 3000 yrds. Target slowed in heavy seas, causing torpedo aimed for middle of target to hit the bow. Vessel was badly damage, traveled slow but managed to escape thanks to dawn breaking early in the polar areas, foul weather setting in. Then clearing, arrival of two DE called in to help after dawn, as well as a patrolling aircraft preventing from closing target. (see report) .

https://i.postimg.cc/dtbP6kQj/Choiku-Maru-Expl1.png (https://postimages.org/)
Small AK sinking after single torpedo hit (blew up nicely)

https://i.postimg.cc/bw1XBysc/chokohit.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/ydQ2ZWr9/dcsplash.png (https://postimages.org/)

DC splashes.

https://i.postimg.cc/Y0vZfkJP/empty-raft.png (https://postimages.org/)

Empty raft after sinking of small merchant. Raft was launched just as vessel capsized. Initially had a lone crew member in it. By time BARB surfaced to close, the raft was empty. Heavy seas so assumed the survivor was washed out.

https://i.postimg.cc/QtxRCcSh/lonesurvivor.png (https://postimages.org/)

Lone survivor, soon washed out of raft.

https://i.postimg.cc/5tmhfsBs/meeting-with-Herring.png (https://postimages.org/)

Rendezvous with USS Herring in Sea of Okhotsk 31 May 1944 1000.
(Wolfpack operations)

https://i.postimg.cc/x8B76hQ1/PBY.png (https://postimages.org/)
PBY at Midway

https://i.postimg.cc/NGnWG9Xv/shakencrew2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Shaken crew (see cursor on morale)

https://i.postimg.cc/ZKyXWbPB/shakenmorale.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/GmwVYWzM/storms.png (https://postimages.org/)

Storms in sea of Okhotsk

https://i.postimg.cc/CKw2rb3k/torpedopassesbychidori.png (https://postimages.org/)

Fired a "up the kilts" shot with AOB 180 but unfortunately the drift of the Chidori in heavy seas, torpedo ran down the port side.

https://i.postimg.cc/N0bz35tV/Wolfpackmessage.png (https://postimages.org/)

Wolfpack message received on convoy. Entire three ship one escort convoy sunk.

AI sub (packmate) "Herring" damaged one AK (had a hole in side of it when I located it) and crippled the escort (props and rudders blown off, later located). BARB sunk all three AK and the escort. Escort sunk by gunfire after dark after torpedo run below, showing draft too shallow.

Bubblehead1980

03-09-22, 11:52 PM

Few screenshots from 9th patrol. External Cams and contacts were off so not that many shots. Patrol Report to be posted soon. Do not recall if have ever had such a patrol playing without map contacts on. 11 ships with 78622 tons. Luzon Strait in August-September 1944 is certainly target rich environment, but difficult with large well defended convoys.

https://i.postimg.cc/hP82h95Z/3dTDC.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/8CYHxw7c/August31-ULTRA.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/fRB5fMZx/BARB-bridge-1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/1zXBWb5b/Barb-Sternlitup.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/4NG5CYx6/Basrb-Tonnag-Totals-Patrol9.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/kGQv6mfR/brideltup2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/c1wm5R01/bridgelitup1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Dw2BGSVv/DDbowoonfire.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/mDFw4M9w/deckgun1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/MKYYzznh/deckgun2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/jSgQJvQc/Firepointon-Teriyosurface.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/k52NN8Tm/Kotosinking.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/LsGtxXWZ/lookoutbridge.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/L5pzMW29/portlookoutsunset.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/3NF2rZxg/queenfishastern.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/ry119qNK/Rainbridge.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/7Z6SD082/rescuemessage.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Yqt1nTd8/shoiheimarusinkfire.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/L6vjrv7S/surfaceattack2.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/Jz2Zh0Md/survivors.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/q76n6r7B/Teiyo1.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/rm64SHd1/teiyolifeboat.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/d18yn9dz/Teiyosinking.png (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/T10WvYt0/ultra2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Bubblehead1980

03-10-22, 02:50 AM

TMO Update V2.0
100 difficult, external camera and map contacts off.

I did my best to keep up with the data on this patrol but the action
in the Luzon Straits was busy. Attacks , esp the night surface actions and coordinated attacks required all of my attention, especially operating without map contacts to keep track on things, so my recording of data suffered at times.

Having said that, this was my best patrol ever without map contacts on. Six tankers, four merchants, one destroyer. One escort carrier damaged.

Fired 48 torpedoes (made a fast run to Saipan for reload after expending torpedoes early in patrol).

Wolfpack operations I have added to the upcoming V2.0 of TMO Update
were present in this patrol and worked well.

AI subs attacked convoys. Some placed in area along convoy routes were scripted attacks. Others set to spawn and patrolled area, responded to contact reports. I have found that they will respond to some degree same way carrier aircraft will respond if a friendly carrier or airbase is nearby when player sends contact report. I am unsure on distance will respond from but guessing at least 20 miles or less.

Anyways pretty cool when moving on on a convoy or after attack and see the flash explode from torpedo impact in the night sky. Enemy escorts are occupied making opportunities for attack.

US wolfpacks tended to "take turns" , typically three boats in a pack, attack from opposite sides. This tactic can player out pretty well in SH 4TMO now.

One coordinated attack I sunk three ships, pack mates sunk three, damaged another, which I later encountered and sunk. Anyways, new level of immersion in the sim, look forward to having it further implemented and refined in next release.

U.S.S. BARB-Report of Ninth War Patrol
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(A) PROLOGUE:

Returned to Pearl Harbor from 8th war patrol on July 4, 1944. Completed normal refit and repair under SubRon Four, four day training period. Loaded twelve MK 14-3A, four MK 23-2 torpedoes in forward torpedo compartment, with eight MK 18-2 torpedoes in aft torpedo compartment, along with all provisions. Lieutenants J.R. Post, and J.A. Easton, USN., detached. CAPT E.R. Swinburne, USN., reported aboard, as Commander, Task Group 17.5 , embarked on BARB for upcoming patrol. LCDR D.S. Baughman, USN., reported aboard for a Prospective Commanding Officer (PCO) tour. CFM L.J. Brendle, USN., was detached, relieved as Chief of the Boat but CGM P.G. Saunders, USN. Several other members of crew detached with new men reporting aboard. Ready for sea August 2, 1944.

(B) NARRATIVE

August 4
_________

1130 Departed Pearl Harbor for patrol area as part of Coordinated Attack Group, Task Group 17.5 as part of Task Group 17.5, with in accordance with Operation Order 265-44. COMTG 17.5 embarked for duration of patrol.

1350 Rendezvoused with QUEENFISH and TUNNY off Barber's Point.
Proceeded on course 275 12 kts for Midway.

1530 Trim Dive.

1545 Surfaced.

August 5
________

0830- Conducted wolfpack exercises.
1230

1542 SJ contact (Ship Contact No.1) bearing 020 22500 yards.

1600 Sighted smoke.

1615 Exchanged recognition signals. Vessel is Victory type cargo with DE escort.

August 6
__________

Conducted sighting, torpedo fire control, and coordinated attack
drills throughout the day with QUEENFISH and TUNNY.

August 7
_________

0000- Coordinated night surface attack drills.
0300

August 8
_________

Conduct drills and group exercises throughout the day.

August 9
__________

1000 Entered Midway channel with QUEENFISH and TUNNY astern at 5000 yard intervals.

1027 Docked at Submarine Tender, Midway Island.

August 10
___________

0730 Departed Midway in company with QUEENFISH and TUNNY.

0800 Formed patrol line parallel to one another, spaced ten nautical miles apart. Course 261 degrees at 11 kts per operation order. ETA in assigned area

0500 25 August.

August 11
___________

En route. Normal routine. Maintained 11 kt speed of advance.
Conducted sighting drills with QUEENFISH and TUNNY.

August 12
__________

En route. Normal routine. Maintained 11 kt speed of advance.
Conducted sighting drills with QUEENFISH and TUNNY.
Received word via evening FOX that patrol will terminate at Majuro Atoll.

August 13
__________

En route. Normal routine.
Winds at 23 kts, direction 128
11-13 ft waves.

August 14
__________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 15
__________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 16
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 17
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 18
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 19
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 20
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 21
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 22
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 23
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 24
___________

En route area. Normal routine.

August 25
___________

0000 West of Luzon Strait.

0010 Heavy rains and fog
with 19 kt winds direction 273.

0300 Dead Reckoning fix has group entering area CONVOY COLLEGE.
Ordered to proceed at best speed to assigned sectors given.

0541 Lost SJ contact with TUNNY

0821 Lost SJ contact with QUEENFISH

August 26
__________

0420 Skies cleared.
Winds and seas calmed.
Patrol in area. Uneventful.

August 27
___________

Patrol in area.

1555 SD contact(Aircraft Contact No.1)

1557 Dive

1630 Surfaced

1821 SD contact. (Aircraft Contact No.2)
Dive.

2130 Surfaced

August 28
__________

0840 APR-1 detected radar signal bearing 020.

0841 SJ powered on. SJ made contact bearing 013 25000 yards
Two pips. Ordered course to investigate contacts.
Rough seas did not assist in chasing down contact.
(Ship Contact No.2)

0900 Contacts identified as two DD in a "fan" patrol sweep of area.
Heavy seas made success of torpedo attack on shallow draft vessels
unlikely, avoided contact, saving fish for convoys will surely encounter
in this area.

1140 SD contact. (Aircraft Contact No.3)
Dive.

1230 Heavy enemy air presence in area, possibly indicating coming convoy(s). As such remained submerged with SJ sweeps at radar depth every half hour.

1950 Surfaced

2225 SD contact 11500 yds, closing! (Aircraft Contact No.4)
Dive!

2227 Leveled off at 150 ft.

August 29
__________

Patrol in area.

August 30
__________

1321 Received ULTRA and action addressed to BARB QUEENFISH TUNNY.
Convoy reported en route Takao to Manila. Expected transit
area 0000 31 August
Conduct coordinated attack.

1330 COMTG 17.5 set intercept point at 20-55N 119-43E.
QUEENFISH TUNNY acknowledged order for coordinated attack.
BARB on course 139 18 kts.

1900 Contact with QUEENFISH (Radar signals)
at designated ambush coordinates.

1930 Submerged until dark to avoid possible detection by aircraft, patrols in
advnace of convoy.

2245 Periscope depth. Aircraft spotted! Bearing 007 5000 yards (Aircraft
Contact No.4) Ordered 150 ft.

2247 Spotted TUNNY bearing 244 6.5 NM.

2250 Aircraft heading right for TUNNY. TUNNY detected AR submerged. Do
not believe TUNNY was spotted as aircraft cruised on.
(AI sub reached last waypoint to simulate a dive as it arrived at ambush
site, GREAT timing lol)

2309 Sound has many prop noises ahead bearing 005, distant.

2330 Radar depth. SJ contacts bearing 004 28355 yds (Ship Contact No.3)

2350 Chose to make night submerged attack due to near full moon providing too great of visibility for
surface attack. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED.

2356 Spotted smoke and outline of enemy ships (Convoy) bearing 017 8 miles estimated.

August 31
___________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1

0022 Contact report sent.
Convoy sighted.
Position 21-04 N 119-43E.
Convoy course 160 Speed 11 kts

0025 Tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6, made ready to fired.
Torpedoes set to low power. Heavy escort screen and course change
required firing from longer range.

0030 Selected one large AO in middle column, one mid sized AO in starboard
column as targets.

0033 Fired tubes 1,2,3 at Target No.1 (AO 10000 tons) Range:6750 yards.
Torpedo Depth: 5ft.

Fired tubes 4,5,6 at Target No.2 (AO 6000 tons) Range: 5540 yds
Torpedo Depth:5 ft

0039 Search lights on, star shells. Torpedo wakes spotted.

0040 Torpedo impact on far side of convoy with mid sized AK.

0041 Escorts heading in BARB's direction, fast.
Ordered 350 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0044 Thermal layer at 216 feet
21-4N 119-44E

0046 Pinging.

0047 Enemy above. Splashes.

0048 DC explosions. Tooth shakers.

0050 Another enemy above. Splashes.

0051 BARB at 375 ft. Boat shaken.

0053 Enemy above. Large pattern of splashes.

0054 Large pattern exploded above. BARB at 395 ft. Pushed to 411 feet by explosions above.

0101 Many DC explosions astern, not close.
Believe enemy lost contact with BARB.
BARB at 390 ft.

0103 Many DC explosions astern.

0105 More DC explosions astern. Estimated range 3000-4000 yards.

0117 More DC explosions astern.

0210 Convoy moved on SSW course. Explosions heard bearing 293 long range. QUEENFISH/TUNNY attacked convoy.

0215 Periscope depth.

0220 SJ contact bearing 178 8500 yards.

0223 Surfaced. Began to close contact, as could be damaged AK torpedoed.

0225 Contact is DE type vessel. APR-1 detected radar emissions from contact bearing. Turned away on pursuit course of convoy. DE increased speed and closed location of BARB's surfacing .BARB slipped away into night.

0226 Ahead at bearing 330-340 observed star shells, cna see large splashes in water at 9000 yards. Fire and smoke visible as well, likely from damaged/sinking vessels torpedoed by QUEENFISH/TUNNY.

BARB conducted end around and reloaded forward tubes.

0328 Tubes reloaded. Closed convoy for attack.

0331 Submerged for attack 3500 off track of convoy.
Went to 150 ft for high speed run to close large AO.

0332 Sound has many depth charge explosions, distant bearing 305. TUNNY
or QUEENFISH have the escorts in a real tizzy.

0342 Periscope depth. Large AO veered off out of range.
Sighted medium sized AO identified as DAISHIN MARU 5150 tons

0342 Many DC explosions audible.

0344 Closing target at high speed.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

0346: Fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at AO DAISHIN MARU 5000 tons. Range 1700
yards. Torpedo Depth. 8 ft

0346 After release of torpedo No 4, noticed target slowed, and began a
:45 turn to port, which would likely cause torpedoes to miss. Adjusted
TDC speed and AOB to compensate,
fired Tube No.5 at 0346:55.

0347 Torpedo No. 5 impacted! Tanker went up in massive explosions.
Tanker began to sink. Torpedoes 1,2,3,4 missed. Large AK firing at scope
500 yards, rushing into ram BARB . Ordered 100 ft!

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3

0402 Periscope depth. Fast set up on AK. Fired stern tubes 7,8,9 range 500 yards.
Torpedo Depth 8 ft.

0403 Torpedo impact (all three)! massive explosion and seondary explosions
for nearly a minute. Vessel split in two! Must have been a ammo ship.
AK JOGU MARU 6669 tons sunk at 20-50N 119-41E

0404 AO DAISHIN MARU sunk! 20-50N 119-41E

0405 Large AO spotted ! Ahead flank. One torpedo forward, one aft.
AO will pass astern of BARB. AO fired at BARB's scope.

0406 Sound reports warship closing high speed estimated range 4500 yards.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4

0408 Fired tube 10 at AO NAMPO MARU. Range 650 yards.
Torpedo depth 8 ft.

0409 Torpedo impact! Massive explosion and fireball! Tanker slowed, on fire bow to stern.
Ten seconds later a massive secondary explosion broke tankers back, split in two. NAMPO MARU 100000 tons sunk. 20-50N 119-41E.

Pinging heard just after last explosion. Escort spotted 275 closing fast.
Ordered 350 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0411 As BARB passed 275 feet. Heard torpedoes impact at bearing 330 estimatedrange 4000 yards. Submerged submarine detected same bearing.
Appeared that QUEENFISH or TUNNY's torpedoes found their mark!

0414 BARB at 350 ft. Escort passed above, did not drop depth charges.
Rushed on and dropped on bearing of submerged submarine. TUNNY or
QUEENFISH
were in for it.

0421 Pinging

0423 Pinging.
Escort above. Again no splashes, escort moved on to
attack other submarine. Many depth charge splashes heared on that
bearing.

0435 Depth charge explosions, and gunfire, distant.

0500 Last depth charge explosions. Sounds of convoy grew distant.

0517 Secured General Quarters to give crew a rest. Maintained Silent
Running.

0548 Sound has submerged submarine estimated 7000 yards on bearing 105.Likely QUEENFISH or TUNNY.

0820 Periscope/Radar depth.

0825 Surfaced for end around. Tubes ordered reloaded.
Batteries on charge.

1100 Dawn. BARB still working into position ahead for attack.
Radar interference on APR-1 bearing 230 believed to be from QUEENFISH.
(Added radar to the AI subs, so if player has APR-1, will detect their radar signals sometimes)
No communications otherwise from TUNNY or QUEENFISH.

1236 Regained SJ contact with convoy bearing 014 26500 yards.
Course 319 to intercept.

1245 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED.

1255 Analysis of PPI scope shows attack from starboard side would
be BARB's best bet due to persistent gap in the screen.
Readout indicates four vessels surrounded by five escorts in a ring.
BARB sunk three, apparent QUEENFISH and TUNNY sunk two, as
original count of convoy was nine merchants/tankers, five escorts.

1308 Convoy changed course to SW.

1332 Contact report sent to QUEENFISH, TUNNY, COMSUBPAC.
Submerged for attack.

1406 Easing inside escort screen from starboard side.
Etorofu Escort crossed BARB's stern at 1800 yards.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.5

1409 Observed AP KYOKUYO MARU 6783 tons as best target in range of electric torpedoes.

1411 Tubes 7,8,9,10 made ready to fire.

1412 Fired tubes 7,8,9,10. Range 2548 yards.
Torpedo Depth: 10 ft.

1415 Torpedoes missed. Secured GQ.Went to 200 ft.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.6

1517 Sound has lone merchant contact bearing 200 long range.
Possible damaged straggler trying to catch up.
Ordered Ahead Full on intercept course and periscope depth.

1526 Periscope depth. Spotted damaged AK, low in water.
Possibly AK BARB damaged in Attack No.1, of course
could been damaged by TUNNY or QUEENFISH.
Went to 80 feet at flank speed to close for attack.

1528 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED

1540 Single Ping Range to target. 3580 yards bearing 305.

1545 Periscope observation. Contact is AK of KOTO MARU Class 4466 tons.
Course 215 8 kts. Vessel shows signs of previous damage.

1549 Fired Tubes 5,6,. Range 1200 yards.

1550 Target made evasive maneuver. One torpedo struck bow, other missed ahead.

1552 Target down by bow with angle. Stern lifted in air, but appears underway.
No large guns visible. Prepared for BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION.

1553 AK has serious down angle by bow.

1556 Vessel now had heavy down angle by bow. Props broached surfaced.

GUN ACTION NO.1

1558 BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION.
Surfaced.

1600 Opened fired from 2500 yards with 4 inch 50 caliber gun, 40mm and 20mm guns. Gunners on stern, and port side, in spite of vessels condition returned machine gun fire. However, three solid hits from three inch, and several from 40mm and 20mm was all that was needed,
as the AK's down angle increased and her stern stuck straight up in the air, before quickly sliding beneath the waves. Two lifeboats were observed in the water. AK KOTO MARU sunk 19-55N 119-31E 4473 tons.

1601 As BARB moved to investigate the wreck and lifeboats, SD had a contact a 15000 yards closing fast.
Appeared that the stricken vessel put out a distress call. Cleared the deck and submerged to 150 ft. At 150 ft, secured from GQ. (Aircraft Contact No.5)

1727 Surfaced. Pursuit course to catch convoy before depart our area.

1813 Received contact report from QUEENFISH. Enemy convoy 21-18N 119-50E Course 170 Speed 9 knots. BARB turned north to intercept.

1959 SD contact 21000 yards closing fast. (Aircraft Contact No.6)

2000 Dive

2110 Surfaced

2246 SJ contact bearing 349 26250 yards.
Multiple pips. Convoy. (Ship Contact No.4)

2248 Topped off Battery Charge. Shadowed
convoy until night fall.

2259 SD contact 24000 yards. (Aircraft Contact No.7 )

2301 SD contact closing fast.
Dive

2310 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED
Opted to make dusk periscope attack
as moon would again prevent surface torpedo attack.

2350 Observed large AO in center column.
Similar to AKATSUKI MARU class 11800 tons.

September 1, 1944

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.7

0003 Tubes 2,3,4 made ready to fire.

0004 Fired Tubes 2,3,4 at AO AKATSUKI MARU. 1950 yards.
Torpedo Depth: 8 ft. All torpedoes expended.
CAPT E.R. Swinburne, USN., COM TG 17.5, pushing the firing plunger
for the last three torpedoes.

0005 All three torpedoes impacted tanker.
Tanker apparently empty of fuel, as did not explode
as expected. Tanker slowed with visible fire astern in engine compartments where one torpedo impacted. Fore toward bow as well.

Pinging began. AK nearby fired on BARB's scope, turned to ram.
Escort closing. Ordered 350 feet . Rigged for depth charge and Silent Running.

0010 BARB depth 300 ft, escort above.
Large pattern of splashes heard.
BARB passed 315 ft.

Many DC explosions. Real tooth shakers. Damage reported
in after torpedo room.

0012 Large DC pattern, not close.

0013 Pinging.

0015 Enemy above. Many splashes.

BARB leveled off at 390 ft.

0016 DC explosions. Boat shaken.

0022 Pinging.

0025 Pinging, short scale. Enemy closing.

0026 Enemy above. Splashes.

0027 DC explosions. Boat shaken.

Close depth charge. Damage reported.
Flooding reported in Aft engine room.
Damage Control Party dispatched.

0029 Flooding under control.

0032 Many DC splashes above.

0033 Many DC explosions. Boat shaken.

0035 Many DC splashes above.

0040 DC explosions. Boat shaken.

0045 Sounds of ship breaking up from last known bearing of AO torpedoed.
Several large explosions from that bearing as well.

0430 Nearly four hours since last depth charge, two hours since last contact with enemy.
BARB rose to periscope depth.

0435 Periscope Depth.

0440 Radar depth.

0450 Surfaced. Secured GQ.

0534 Returned to scene of Torpedo Attack No.7

0545 Located large debris field and oil slick at 20-30N 119-44E.
AO AKATSUKI MARU 11800 tons sunk

0546 With all torpedoes expended so early in patrol,
set course for Saipan to rearm and refuel so that BARB my rejoin
QUEENFISH and TUNNY for further operations.

1415 SD contact 12152 yards closing.
Dive! (Aircraft Contact No.8)

1417 BARB at 150 ft.

2213 Periscope depth. Overcast, fog. Choppy seas with heavy rains.

2315 Surfaced. En route Saipan.

September 2
____________

En route Saipan

0150 TUNNY reported heavy damaged by aircraft attack.
TUNNY departed area for return to Pearl Harbor.

September 3
____________

En route Saipan

September 4
____________

En route Saipan

September 5
_____________

En route Saipan

September 6
____________

1300 Docked at Garapan, Saipan. Reload of torpedoes,
provisions, refueling, and voyage repairs began shortly after arrival.

September 7
____________

0345 Voyage repairs completed. Provisions loaded and stocked.

0400 Reload of twelve MK 14-3A, four MK 23-2, and eight MK 18-2 torpedoes completed.

0430 Refueling completed. Ready for sea.

0500 Underway from Garapan, Saipan.
Proceeded on course ot return to patrol area.

September 8
____________

En route patrol area.

September 9
_____________

En route patrol area.
Increased speed to 18 kts
Course 279

September 10
_____________

En route patrol area.

0503 Received ULTRA on convoy passing through western Luzon Strait.
11 September. Set course for intercept point to assist "BEN's BUSTER's"
(GROWLER, PAMPANITO, SEA LION)

1800 SD contact 27500 yards. Range steadied at 20250 yards.
Did not observe BARB. (Aircraft Contact No.9)

2232 SD contact 18000 yards closing fast. (Aircraft Contact No.10)
Dive!

2234 Leveled off at depth of 150 ft.

September 11
_____________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 8

0026 Surfaced.

1207 SJ contact bearing 324 28250 yards.(Ship Contact No. 5)
Pips indicated convoy. Set intercept course.

1255 APR-1 detected radar emissions bearing 270.
Believe lead escort has radar.

1300 Convoy is large spaced in four columns with numerous escorts.
BARB trailing until night fall for surface attack.
Contact report sent. Convoy is not believed
to be the one alerted to on 10 September.

1345 SD contact 10500 yards, closing fast! (Aircraft Contact No.11)
Dive! Leveled off at 150 ft. Sound has distant noises of the convoy
bearing 270.

1349 Explosions, above. Not close.
Apparently BARB was detected by aircraft.
BARB went to 200 ft.

1430 Periscope depth. Smoke spotted bearing 287.

1432 Radar depth. SJ contacts bearing 280 1139 yards.
Convoy apparently zigged towards BARB. Apparently,
did not receive a warning from the aircraft which dropped bombs
earlier.

1434 With convoy closing and BARB dead ahead, decided to go
for submerged attack. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SUBMERGED.

1442 Lead escort identified as Matsu Cass DE.

1453 BARB timed approach to slip past lead escort for attack on
middle column of convoy, where two AO were spotted in distance.

1456 Convoy course 055 Speed 10 knots.

1457 200 ft depth. 3.5 kts, worked inside screen, astern of lead escort.

1513 Periscope depth. Inside convoy 2000 yards off center column track.

1515 All tubes, bow and stern made ready to fire.

1517 Fired tubes 1,2,3 at AO SANRAKU MARU.
Range: 1511 yds Torpedo Depth: 8 ft

1518 Three torpedoes impacted as aimed.
Tanker erupted into massive fireball after first hit,
obviously loaded with oil/fuel.
Tanker burned, sunkby stern.

1519 Set up shot with stern tubes of AK bearing 178.
As target was about to reach firing bearing,
BARB was rocked by series of explosions close aboard,
appears air cover spotted BARB. Ordered
200 ft emergency, rigged for depth charge.
Minor damage reported from close bombs/depth charges.
Small leaks in valves, piping, and air lines.

1520 As BARB passed 125 ft, series of more explosions, above, close.
Sound reported warship closing fast bearing 090.
Ordered 350 ft, rigged for silent running.
Began turn to starboard to minimize profile
to escort.

1526 Pinging.

1528 Enemy above. Many splashes.

1529 DC explosions. Boat shaken.

1530 Another escort pinging, crossed ahead of BARB.
Many splashes.

1531 DC explosions. Tooth shakers. Close.

1533 Splashes above.

1534 Many DC explosions. Boat shaken.

1537 Enemy above. Many splashes.
Explosions. BARB shaken.

1539 BARB depth 394 ft.

1540- Near constant pinging from multiple enemy vessels, but
1551 no attacks. Enemy searching for BARB, apparently lost contact.

1552 Warship at 235 switched to short scale pinging,
closed in high speed.

1553 Enemy above. Splashes.

1554 Explosions. Boat shaken.

More splashes.

1555 Explosions.
Damage reported in aft torpedo room.

1611 Distant explosions.

1619 Pinging. Warship bearing 254, closing, slowly.
BARB at 390 ft.

1622 Pinging grew steady, enemy gained fix on BARB.

1623 Enemy increased speed, closing, pinging.

1625 Enemy above. Splashes

Explosions. Above, not close.

1631 Pinging

1900 Periscope depth.

1904 Radar depth. SJ contacts at 16500 yards astern.
Secured Silent Running. Surfaced.

1910 Secured GQ.
Decided to continue on to arranged attack position
for coordinated attack as convoy just attacked, would be
exiting BARB's operational area before next attack could be mounted.
Updated contact report sent.

1911 APR-1 detected radar emissions from multiple bearings astern.
Appeared the escorts switched their radars on.

1950 SD contact 29500 yards.
Range steadied at 20500 yards.
(Aircraft Contact No.12)

1955 Lost SD contact.

2124 APR-1 detected radar signals bearing 100.
:21

2124 Near simultaneous SD contact range 12500 yards closing.
:51 (Aircraft Contact No.12)

2125 Dive!

2127 Leveled at 150 ft.

2303 Radar depth.

2305 Surfaced.

September 12
______________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.10

0141 Detected radar signals from unknown US submarine.
Possibly GROWLER, SEA LION, PAMPANITO (BARB in their area
for attack on convoy) or QUEENFISH.

0226 SJ contacts! Bearing 001 27747 yards (Ship Contact No.6)
Pips indicate convoy.

0230 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

0235 APR-1 detected radar emissions from far port side of convoy.

0250 Received contact report from GROWLER regarding convoy BARB
was currently closing. (lol contact report is set earlier in the mission file,
sometimes timing is off lol)

0254 Sent contact report.
Convoy on course 047 11 kts.

0304 Star shells fired. Two escorts closing BARB from port and ahead.
BARB detected. APR-1 detected strong radar signal bearing 350 focusing on BARB.
Turned about at high speed.

0305 Pursuers appeared to be matching BARB's speed. Engines put on overload
, BARB began to pull away.

0306 SJ pip closing rapidly with APR-1 detecting focused emissions from same bearing.
Identified contact as a full sized DD, possibly Fubuki Class. DD was obviously
capable of overtaking BARB on the surface.

0307 Stern tubes made ready to fire. Depth set to 3.5 feet.
BARB at 23 kts.

0313 Two escorts slowed, began depth charging, convinced BARB submerged. Fubuki DD continued pursuit of BARB.

0312 Fired tubes 7,8, "down the throat" at maneuvering DD, 3100 yards.

0314 Torpedo impact! DD on fire in bow area. Slowed but continue pursuit.
Fired star shells and a few rounds at BARB.

Two subchasers stopped depth charging and set pursuit at high speed for
BARB.

0315 Fired tube No.9 down the throat, timed for the DD's zigs back and
forth along its pursuit course.

0317 Torpedo impact! Large fired on bow and amidships. DD slowed with hard turn to port.

0318 DD turned away at best speed, ending pursuit.

0329 Fubuki Class DD sunk at 20-18N 117-31E
1680 tons.

0331 Subchasers ended their pursuit of BARB, turned back to convoy at high speed, likely in response to reports of the DD sinking.

0333 BARB turned to pull ahead of convoy for attack.

0336 Radar interference from a US submarine detected previously.
Believe this was SEA LION or GROWLER

0358 All stern tubes fired reloaded.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.11

0447 Fired tubes 3,4, at mid sized AK. Range 1700 yards.
Torpedo Depth: 8 ft

0448 Torpedoes missed astern, target sped up during torpedo run.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.12

0449 Switched to next target astern. Another mid sized AK.

0453 Fired tubes 5,6, range 1900 yards.
Torpedo depth 8 ft.

0455 Both torpedoes impacted target. Target caught fired
and settled in water.

BARB illuminated by lead AK's spotlight and star shells. Came under heavy deck gun and machine gun fire
BARB turned away, no damage.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 12-A

Vessel while burning and lower in water, did not seem to be sinking. To ensure sinking, backed down
to 3000 yards to fire two MK 18 from stern tubes.

0457 Fired tube 7,8, 3000 yards
Torpedo Depth : 8 ft

SJ reported contact closing rapidly bearing 215.
Visual ID on a MS type escort closing at high speed. 3500 yards.
Sneaky fella, got in close during all the chaos. Ordered ahead flank!
Right full rudder! to close angle and present stern.
Engines on overload, began to pull away into the dark of night.

0500 Both torpedoes impacted! Large explosion.
Vessel sinking.

Another escort spotted astern bearing 180! Silhouetted by the
flames of the AK just torpedoed. Appeared to be Type C escort.

Star shells illuminated area. Several shell splashes landed in general area of BARB from escorts, firing, but not close. Escorts continued pursuit.

0501 Unknown AK 4000 tons (estimated) sunk at 20-23N 117-36E

0510 Withdrew to shadow convoy and reload torpedoes.
Convoy is sailing into position a submarine (likely SEA LION) ahead.
Will allow SEA LION to take her turn at the convoy.

0535 SEA LION (?) attacked convoy.
Observed flash of explosion 9000 yards aster bearing 165.
Convoy scattering. Two escorts closing in on location of attack.

0540 Observed/heard distant depth charge explosions bearing 035.

0541 Spotted burning vessel bearing 055

0542 Tubes reloaded. Set course
to pull ahead of course and to opposite side for further attack.

Attempted to get in for attack multiple times, each time chased off
by escort. Remaining three escorts formed a tight perimeter around remaining vessels. pre dawn phosphorescence grew ever more present further complicating things. One escort remained in area of SEA LION, dropped depth charges.

0619 Burning AK torpedoed by SEA LION sunk at 20-28N 117-40E

0630 Unable to get in for attack. Secured from GQ.
Decided to work ahead for a later attack.
This would give convoy time to relax a bit, not be on heightened state of alert.

0930 Lost SJ contact with convoy. Turned to back track and regain contact with convoy.

1040 Regained SJ contact bearing 005 25600 yards.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.13

1100 GENERAL QUARTERS TORPEDO SUBMERGED

1115 Dive

1133 Target course 045 11 kts.

1137 Fired tubes 1,2,3, . Range: 3259 yds
Torpedo Depth: 4 ft

1138 Wakes were spotted by sharp eyed lookouts on the enemy vessel, which took
evasive action, causing torpedoes to miss ahead.

Enemy escort at 3000 yards. Ordered 350 ft rigged for silent running, depth charge.

1145 Depth charges astern, distant.
Appeared enemy never detected BARB.

1215 Secured GQ. Maintained silent running.

1500 Radar depth. So contacts but APR-1 detected multiple radar emissions in area.While no SD contact was made, believe signals were from nearby aircraft due to rapid but constant bearings. Likely aircraft searching area for BARB. Went to 200 ft.

1900 Radar depth. Radar emissions detected bearing 040.
Went to 200 ft.

2215 Surfaced

September 13
______________

1000 Spotted PAMPANTIO bearing 345 6000 yards.
21-13N 118-41E

1248 SD contact 18255 yards closing. (Aircraft Contact No.13(
Dive.

1440 Surfaced

1500 APR-1 detecting radar emissions bearing 125. Emissions focused on BARB.While no SD contact, likely a aircraft avoided earlier.

1501 Dive
Due to heavy enemy air activity, possibly signaling more convoys
en route to area, decided to remain submerged until dark to avoid
detection.

2359 Surfaced into choppy seas.

14 September
_____________

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.14

0300 Contact report received. Convoy sighted in Luzon Straits .
Convoy position 20-11N 119-37E Course 250 8 kts.
BARB turned to pursuit course at 18 ktsin attempt to catch up
with convoy.

0751 SJ contact bearing 029 29500 yards.
Pips indicate convoy. (Ship Contact No. 8)
Increased to flank speed to end around
for attack.

0900 Passed eight miles easy of convoy.

0922 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

0938 Port flank escort departed station on "sweep",
BARB moved in for attack at high speed.

0940 Lead escort appeared to be Ukuru Class Escort Vessel.

0948 Convoy organized into three columns, three ships each.
Middle column has large AK leading two large AO.
Convoy spaced too tight to get inside for attack.
Brought stern tubes to bear to fire through first column
with MK 18 torpedoes (lack of wake advantage here)
at large AO estimated at 10000 tons in center of center column.

0951 Tubes 7,8,9 readied for firing.

0954 Fired tubes 7,8,9 at large Unidentified AO, similar to AKATSUKI MARU class 11800 tons.
at a range of 2800 yards. Torpedo depth: 8 ft. All stern torpedoes expended.

Lookouts report escort bearing 290 5000 yards closing fast.
Confirmed by radar. Escort returning to station.

0957 Torpedo impact! (all three) Massive explosion and fireball characteristic of a loaded tanker. Vessel lost way quickly, burning from bow to stern nearly, and settled in water.

BARB came under heavy deck gun, machine gun fire, with a few close splashesobserved. Star shells and searchlight from a AK illuminated BARB for a timeas opened range into the night at high speed. Lead and returning port escort began to chase BARB but never had a exact fix on her location.

0058 Both lead and port flank escorts observed heading for BARB at high speed.
Port escort, tentatively identified as a Type A Etorofu Escort, opened from about 3000 yards, but ceased fire after firing four rounds.

1008 Large AO sunk at 19-42N 119-00E

1011 Observed flash in distance and visible smoke fire.
Appears another submarine attacked convoy from starboard side
as all three of BARB's torpedoes fire hit her target and MK 18 would have
reached end of run by this time.

1012 Escorts gave up search for BARB, rushed toward other side of convoy. As convoy was now technically out of BARB's area and entered Area A2 in command area of COMSUBSOWESPAC, BARB turned North to disengage.
(This was not a planned/scripted attack in the campaign files. However, this area has several AI subs roving during this time period, as these waters had so many US subs the folk lore among Japanese sailors was "You can walk from Singapore to Tokyo on the periscopes of American submarines"

Convoy stumbled across where a AI was on patrol and/or the contact report sent earlier, drew a nearby sub, which does happen
if AI subs are close enough)

1035 Secured GQ.

1040 Unknown AK torpedoed by unknown submarine appeared to sink at 19-42N 119-00E. Observed sinking visually in dawn light, also disappeared from radar scope.

1420 SJ Contacts bearing 080 range 26500 yards.
Pips indicated very large convoy. (Ship Contact No.9)

1425 After analyzing PPI scope readout. Decided to shadow convoy until
nightfall for surface torped attack.

1430 Contact report sent.
Convoy sighted.
19-56 118-50E
Course 100 Speed 9 kts
(Given proximity of AI subs in area, expect convoy will be attacked by them as well)

1445 Convoy zigged to course 000

1730 Convoy zigged to course 100

1907 APR-1 detected radar signals.
Believed aircraft scanning area with radar
No SD contact.

1908 Dive

1931 Surfaced

1945 Convoy changed course to 030.
APR-1 detected radar signals bearing 155.

1946 SD contact 11500 yards closing
Dive! Convoy's air cover. (Aircraft Contact No.14)

2009 Surfaced

2105 Convoy zigged, returned to course 100.

2130 Spotted flotsam, debris field, oil slick bearing 260 2000 yards.

2145 Winds slows to 11 knots direction 342. Heavy seas calmed to 4-6 ft waves

2213 APR-1 detected radar signals bearing 280.

2214 SD contact 12000 yards closing fast! Convoy air cover
likely same as Aircraft Contact No.14. Designated Aircraft Contact No.14-A Dive!

2235 Surfaced

2248 APR-1 detected radar signals short range bearing 281.
No SD contact, assumed to be emissions from convoy air cover.
Dive!

2306 Periscope depth, smoke sighted astenr bearing 173.

2307 Surfaced.

September 15
______________

0108 GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE

0130 Convoy zigged to course 083.
This left the front starboard with a gap,
BARB moved to maneuver inside the forward screen
via this gap.

0148 Contact report sent.
Convoy sighted 20-45N 120-05E
Course 03 Speed 9 kts.

0158 BARB moved just inside forward screen, spotted two large AO in second center column.

0205 Tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6 made ready to fire.
BARB moving between two center columns of convoy
at 7 kts. Approached large 10000 ton AO
toward end of the column.

0215 AO identified as TEIYO MARU

0220 Fired tubes 1,2,3 at AO TEIYO MARU 1500 yards.
Torpedo depth: 8 ft

0221 All three torpedoes impacted.
Massive explosion and fireball characteristic of a fully loaded tanker.

Illuminated by searchlight of AK astern, came under heavy but inaccurate gunfire from
AK astern and those port and starboard in column of AO just torpedoed.
BARB went ahead flank and began moving towards next column. Star shells
illuminated the area in addition to large fires burning from the sinking tanker.

0228 AO TEIYO MARU 9800 tons sunk. 19-46N 120-03E
SJ has pips closing at high speed. Visually confirmed.
APR-1 detected multiple radar emissions.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.15

0229 Setup on large AK in outer port column.

0230 Fired tubes 4,5,6 at unidentified large AK estimated 8000 tons.
Range 1500 yards. Torpedo depth 8 feet. All torpedoes expended.

0231 Two torpedoes missed. One hit stern of target.

0250 Clear of convoy, slowed to 10 knots.

Analysis of situation on radar scope
show two pips, believed to be escorts hunting in area of tanker sinking
, another hunting near the AK damaged with last torpedo.
Pip believed to be the damaged AK near stationary in water, appeared
that torpedo hit damaged her propulsion/steering.

0300 Cruising in area about six miles to port of stricken AK, waiting
for escorts to clear out. Unclear i ship was abandoned, awaiting rescue due to its proximity to Luzon and Formosa, or attempting repairs, possibly all the above.

0424 Distant explosions on convoy bearing 060 seven miles.
Flashes and flames visible in distant night sky. Believe another submarine
attacked convoy.

0459 Radar shows closest pip (aside from damaged AK) is now nine miles away.

GUN ACTION NO.2

0500 BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTON!
4 inch 50 caliber deck gun manned.

0524 Opened fired with deck gun. Range 4300 yds.

0531 Ceased fired. Vessel on fire, sinking. Rocked by several explosions after last gun hit.

0538 AK SHOEI MARU 9980 tons sunk at 20-48N 120-05E.

0540 Secured GQ.

0541 New SJ contact. Bearing 206 29350 yards, closing rapidly.
Two pips. Likely enemy ships called in to assist/guard/tow the stricken AK. Since received no return fire during gun action, assumed AK was abandoned.

0700 Set course for Balintang Channel to clear area en route to Majuro.
Sent status report to COMSUBPAC.

1031 Received Flash Traffic for action. PAMPANITO recovered multiple Allied POW's who were aboard ships sunk in the attacks of 12/13 September in Western Luzon Straits.Ordered along with QUEENFISH to proceed to area of sinking and search for more survivors.

1035 Set course 270 18 kts to search area for survivors.

1449 SD contact 14500 yards closing.(Aircraft Contact No.15)
Dive. APR-1 detected signals bearing 085.

1450 Thermal layer 130 ft.

1622 Surfaced

1927 SD contact 12162 yards closing!
DIVE! (Aircraft Contact No. 16)

1929 Leveled off at depth of 150 ft.

1930 Bombs/Depth charge explosions above. Not close.

2350 Periscope depth. Extended SD mast for sweep.
SD contact 8000 yards steady. Aircraft apparently
circling area. Ordered 150 ft.

September 16
_____________

0037 Radar depth. SD Contact 19500 yards closing.
Air craft still in area. APR-1 detected transmissions bearing 235.

0044 Lost SD contact

0045 Surfaced

0803 Arrived in search area 20-6N 117-25E by 50 nautical miles.
Began search pattern.

1813 SD contact 11500 yards closing.
DIVE (Aircraft contact No. 17)

1814 Leveled off at 150 ft

1815 Bombs/Explosions above.

September 17
_____________

0030 Surfaced. Continued search for survivor.

0411 SJ contact bearing 303 27550 yards.
(Ship Contact No.11)
Multiple pips indicated convoy.

Out of torpedoes, but closed to gain information
for contact report, perhaps other boats in area could attack.

0416 APR-1 detected radar emissions bearing 355.

0425 GENERAL QUARTERS

0430 PPI indicates convoy seven vessels with four escorts. One escort ahead, aft, two on each flank.
Flankers appear to be several thousand yards off to guard approaches,
intermittently close rang eto check on convoy then return.

Only source of near continuous radar emissions was detected from middle
of the single column.

0450 Convoy appears to be several large AO's.
Perfect targets but BARB is out of torpedoes!
Will be forced to shadow convoy to try and bring in other
boats for attack.

0454 Contact Report sent
Convoy Sighted 20-34N 117-55E
Course 041 Speed 11

0455 Flooded down to decks awash 26 ft.

0456 Contact in middle of convoy identified as a carrier!
CVE possibly Taiyo Class. The luck!
(This is a convoy of tankers with carrier Unyo I added to campaign to
represent a real life convoy BARB attacked in September 1944 in Luzon Straits while searching for Allied survivors in waters. BARB sunk a tanker and the escort carrier UNYO in real life. Of course I would be out of torpedoes when I run into this target lol)

0547 APR-1 detect radar signals/interference ahead.
Believed to be US submarine, possibly SEA LION.

Surfaced from decks awash.

0551 Lead and starboard escort (DE, SC) increased speed and charged towards BARB. Apparently BARB was detected.

0600 Vessels began dropping depth charges, convinced BARB had submerged.

0602 APR-1 now had radar interference on APR-1 from two different bearings ahead.

SJ had pips bearing 340 and 000.
Believed these were SEA LION QUEENFISH on surface closing convoy.
(Contact report will bring in AI subs in area if within range, usually)

0612 While moving ahead, spotted men in a makeshift raft at
Turned about and slow for rescue, 11000 yards ahead of convoy.

0615 Rescued two Australian POW's who were aboard ships
sunk on 12/13 September in area at 20-44N 118-2E. (Rescue raft mod)

0625 Pip of submarine disappeared from screen, presumed submerged for attack.
(At present surfaced AI us subs can not fire torpedoes, working on bug fix for release.This sub reached its "dive" (last waypoint where it deletes itself to simulate a dive. A submerged sub was position in the area nearby, likely responded to contact report)

0630 Pip of second submarine disappeared from radar.

0811 BARB was 10,000 yards ahead of convoy on port side,
star shells fired in area, lead escort rushed ahead began firing at water with gunsand made depth charge run. BARB turned about to close in to monitor attack.

0816 BARB 8100 yards from convoy. On bearing 030 witnessed a flash and large explosion, orange ball of flamerise into air and continue burning. One of our submarines torpedoed a tanker.

0820 Many depth charge explosions. Visible/audible.

GUN ACTION NO.3

0821 Unable to stand it any longer. BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION
was called. BARB would take a few pot shot from long range.
Hope was to damage tankers carrying volatile fuel and provide distraction
for escorts from attacking the boat(s) that just attacked convoy.
Guns manned, BARB charge in at high speed.

0902 Opened fire on CVE from 5000 yards off port side.

0904 Hit on the carrier flight deck! Small fire visible on deck!

Heavy gunfire lobbed BARB's way, counted eight shell splashes.
Lead DE turned towards closing. BARB ceased fired and turned
away at flank speed. Fire on carrier visible.

0905 Plan worked. Three of four escorts now chasing BARB.

0914 Three vessels observed burning in distance. Small fire on CVE, tanker torpedoed by a sub, and another apparently torpedoed as well.

0940 Enemy escorts gave up pursuit, returned to convoy.

BARB set course to disengage and continue with search of area for
survivors.

0945 Secured GQ. Continued search in area for survivors.

1358 SD contact 11200 yards closing.
Dive!

1359 BARB at 150 ft. Explosions above, close.
No damage, other some cork dust, few teeth shaken loose.

1443 Periscope depth. Spotted survivors and raft bearing 285 1250 yards.
Turned to close and examine.

1449 Surfaced for rescue.

1455 Rescued four three Australians and one British POW/Survivor in water at
20-19N 117-3E.

1525 SD contact 13500 yards closing (Aircraft Contact No. 18)

1655 SD contact 12500 yards closing Likely same aircraft patrolling area.
Designated Aircraft Contact 18-A

September 18
______________

0030 Surfaced

2012 APR-1 detected radar signals bearing 325.
Bearing change indicated aircraft. No SD contact.

2013 Dive

2058 Periscope depth. Aircraft spotted bearing 200 6500 yards, closing.
Ordered 150 ft. Rigged for depth charge.

September 19
______________

0041 Surfaced

1945 SD contact 13500 yards closing.(Aircraft Contact No.20)
Dive

1947 Explosions above.

2010 Extended SD mast at periscope depth. SD contact 7000 yards.
Back to 150 ft (Aircraft Contact 20-A) Contact

2100 Periscope depth. SD mast. Two SD contacts
One at 6500 yards (Aircraft Contact 20-B) Second SD contact at 18000 yards.
(Aircraft Contact No.21)
Both contacts appear to be loitering in area searching for BARB.

2105 Returned to 150 ft.

September 20
_______________

0030 Surfaced

21 September
____________

0601 SJ contact bearing 238 27550 yards.
Convoy. (Ship Contact No.12)
Course 017 to intercept.

0615 Large convoy in three columns, four ships each, five to six escorts.

0617 APR-1 detected radar signals from convoy bearing.

0633 Contact Report Sent
19-51N 117-09E
Course 223 Speed 10 kts.

0700 BARB broke contact to continue search mission.
Fuel status required withdraw to Saipan at end of the day.

1430 Submerged to search via periscope avoid multiple
read emissions on APR-1.

1958 Smoke spotted bearing 146 eight miles estimated.
(Ship Contact No.13)

2000 Contact is large convoy heading directly for BARB.
GENERAL QUARTERS.

2002 Lead escort (DE) spotted, BARB rigged for silent running, depth charge.
Ordered 350 ft and turn off path of DE to try and slip by him,
before going to depth to send contact report.

2020 Pinging heard, briefly.
BARB stopped ascent to periscope depth, returned to 360 ft.

2039 Depth charge explosions astern estimated 3000 yards.

Pinging. Enemy closing fast.

2040 Enemy pinging.

2042 Enemy above. Many splashes.

2043 DC explosions.

2044 DC explosions. Boat shaken.
BARB at 377 ft depth

2045 Pinging

2047 Enemy ahead bearing 000 closing fast. pinging.

2048 Enemy above. Splashes.

DC explosions. Boat shake. BARB depth 390 ft.

2050 Pinging.

2058 Enemy above. Splashes.

Close explosions. Damage Reported (minor)

2108 Near constant pinging in area from several escorts, but none have made a attack.
Believe did not have fix on BARB.

2114 Enemy above. Splashes.

DC explosions. Real tooth shakers.

2115 Second enemy approached pinging.

2116 Enemy above. Many splashes.

2117 Boat severely shaken. Damage reported.
BARB at depth of 380 ft.

2120 Splashes above

2121 DC explosions.

2127 Enemy above, moving slowly. Pinging.

DC explosion, not close. Sounded as if charges were set shallow.

2149 Twenty two minutes of incessant pinging from two escorts ceased.
BARB at depth 399 ft. Boat is sluggish due to severely damaged hydraulic pumps and serious damage to bow/stern dive planes transmission.

2200 Enemy heard leaving area high speed, likely to rejoin convoy.

2300 Secured GQ. Maintained silent running.
Remained at depth and silent running as likely enemy left a "sleeper"
or two behind. Controls remained sluggish due to damage.

September 22
_____________

0122 Periscope depth. All clear

0125 Radar depth. Clear.
Secured from Silent Running.

0130 Surfaced. Set course of Balintang Channel.

1509 SD contact 19550 yards (Aircraft Contact No.22)
Dive. Controls remained sluggish in spite of repairs.
Hydraulic pumps remained under repair by damage control party.

1924 Midget submarine spotted bearing 060! Estimated range 4500 yards.
Ordered 150 ft emergency. Rigged for silent running.
(Ship Contact No.14)

1926 Sound picked up the midget sub bearing 071 closing high speed.

1936 Sound lost contact with midget submarine.

2030 Secured silent running.

September 23
_____________

0015 Surfaced. Clear of Balintang Channel, set course for Saipan
to deliver survivors rescued.

0319 APR-1 detected radar signals. Likely a night flier.

0320 Submerged to avoid.

0432 Surfaced

September 24
_____________

En route Saipan

September 25
_____________

En route Saipan

September 26
______________

1200 Docked at Garapan,Saipan.

Disembarked rescued survivors.
Conducted voyage repairs.
Loaded six MK 14-3A torpedoes in bow tubes
Four MK 18-2 torpedoes in stern tubes.
Refueled and provisioned for trip to Majuro Atoll, Marshall Islands
where BRB's next refit period is scheduled.

September 27
______________

0600 Departed for Majuro.

September 28
_____________

En route Majuro.

September 29
_____________

En route Majuro.

September 30
_____________

En route Majuro.

October 1
_____________

En route Majuro.

October 2
____________

1100 Docked at Majuro, Marshall Islands. Terminated war patrol.

(C) WEATHER:

Weather conditions en route was overall pleasant, yachting weather.
Weather in assigned area was overall pleasant and conducive to operations. Occasional squalls were encountered
with up to 30 knot winds producing heavy seas making operations a challenge at times.

(D) NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

Babuyan Island in the Balintang Channel provided a aide to navigation when transiting
to and from the area. A light was spotted on the island from ten nautical miles.

(E) CONTACTS

Aircraft Contacts

No.1
DATE 1944/08/27
TIME 1555
LAT 20-26N
LOG 119-56E
BRG --
RNG 27500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.2
DATE 1944/08/27
TIME 1821
LAT 20-50N
LOG 120-20E
BRG --
RNG 22500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.3
DATE 1944/08/28
TIME 1140
LAT 21-48N
LOG 119-17E
BRG --
RNG 25600 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.3
DATE 1944/08/28
TIME 2225
LAT 21-20N
LOG 118-40E
BRG --
RNG 11500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.4
DATE 1944/08/30
TIME 2245
LAT 21-2N
LOG 119-42E
BRG 007
RNG 5000 yds
CRS 000
SPD 150 kts
ALT 1000
HOW Visual-Periscope
TYPE G4M BETTY
REMARK

No.5
DATE 1944/08/31
TIME 1601
LAT 19-55N
LOG 119-31E
BRG --
RNG 19250 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD Only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.6
DATE 1944/08/31
TIME 1959
LAT 20-06N
LOG 119-37E
BRG --
RNG 2100 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD Only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.7
DATE 1944/08/31
TIME 1959
LAT 20-06N
LOG 119-37E
BRG --
RNG 21000 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD Only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.8
DATE 1944/09/01
TIME 1415
LAT 19-50N
LOG 121-50E
BRG --
RNG 12152 yds
CRS --
SPD --

No.9
DATE 1944/09/10
TIME 1800
LAT 19-31N
LOG 123-54E
BRG --
RNG 27500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD Only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.10
DATE 1944/09/10
TIME 2232
LAT 19-45N
LOG 122-33E
BRG --
RNG 18000 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD Only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.11
DATE 1944/09/10
TIME 1345
LAT 20-42N
LOG 119-3E
BRG --
RNG 10500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD Only
TYPE --
REMARK
Bombed at 150 ft by contact. No damage.
Bombed at periscope depth after torpedo attack, minor damage.

No.11
DATE 1944/09/11
TIME 1950
LAT 20-48N
LOG 118-39E
BRG --
RNG 29500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD Only
TYPE --
REMARK
Range steadied at 20500 yards until lost contact.

No.12
DATE 1944/09/11
TIME 2124
LAT 20-52N
LOG 118-14E
BRG 100*
RNG 29500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD/APR-1**
TYPE --
REMARK

*Bearing from radar emissions registered on APR-1

** Near simultaneous contact on SD with radar signals on APR-1.

No.13
DATE 1944/09/13
TIME 1248
LAT 21-10N
LOG 119-3E
BRG
RNG 18255 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

No.14/14-A
DATE 1944/09/14
TIME 1946
LAT 20-20N
LOG 119-34E
BRG 155*
RNG 18255 yds**
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD-APR-1***
TYPE --
REMARK
Contact is convoy air cover. Patrolled convoy area throughout
afternoon.

*APR-1 detected radar emissions from contact.
Bearing of radar emissions assumed to be aircraft.

** Range for initial contact 14-A

**14-A Radar emissions bearing for 14-A 280 degrees.

No.15
DATE 1944/09/15
TIME 1449
LAT 19-54N
LOG 120-57E
BRG 085*
RNG 14500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
* APR-1 detected radar emissions bearing 085 less than one minutes after SD contact.

No.16
DATE 1944/09/15
TIME 1027
LAT 19-56N
LOG 119-59E
BRG --
RNG 12162 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Low flying aircraft, SD did not detect until very close range.
Aircraft dropped bombs/depth charges above BARB.
Aircraft circled area within 10000 yards of BARB
for several areas. APR-1 detected radar emissions.

No.17
DATE 1944/09/17
TIME 1358
LAT 20-20N
LOG 117-0E
BRG --
RNG 11200 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --

No.18/ 18-A
DATE 1944/09/17
TIME 1358
LAT 20-13N
LOG 116-57E
BRG --
RNG 13500 yds*
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK

18-A range at initial contact was 12500, closing.

No.19
DATE 1944/09/17
TIME 2058
LAT 20-13N
LOG 116-57E
BRG 200
RNG 6500 yds (estimated)
CRS 045
SPD 200
ALT 1500 ft
HOW Visual-Periscope
TYPE G4M-BETTY
REMARK
Likely source of emissions detected by APR-1 at
2012 on 18 September 44.

No.20/20-A/20-A
DATE 1944/09/19
TIME 1945
LAT 19-46N
LOG 117-38E
BRG --
RNG 13500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Bombed by aircraft

20-A at 7000 yds 2010 hrs
20-B 6500 yds. 2100 hrs
Same aircraft as contact 20, loitering area searching for BARB.

No.21
DATE 1944/09/19
TIME 2100
LAT 19-46N
LOG 117-38E
BRG --
RNG 6500 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Contact loitered area searching with contact No.20.

No.22
DATE 1944/09/22
TIME 1509
LAT 19-46N
LOG 117-38E
BRG --
RNG 19550 yds
CRS --
SPD --
ALT --
HOW SD only
TYPE --
REMARK
Balintang Channel air patrol.
APR-1 detected radar emissions at same time as SD made contact.
Bearing inconclusive.

Ship Contacts

No.1
DATE 1944/08/05
TIME 1542
LAT. 22-25N
LOG. 162-57W
BRG 020
RNG 22500 yds
CRS 185
SPD 11.5 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AK, DE
REMARK
Victory Cargo with escort en route Oahu.
Exchanged recognition signals.

No.2

DATE 1944/08/28
TIME 0841
LAT. 21-52N
LOG. 119-42E
BRG 013
RNG 25000 yds
CRS 185
SPD 11.5 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE DD,DE
REMARK
Patrol. Heavy seas, avoided.

No.3
DATE 1944/08/30
TIME 2330
LAT. 21-3N
LOG. 119-42E
BRG 004
RNG 28355 yds
CRS 160
SPD 9 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AO,AO,AP, DE,SC,SC,SC,SC
REMARK
Convoy
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.5
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.6
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.7
GUN ACTION NO.1

No.4
DATE 1944/08/31
TIME 2246
LAT. 20-30N
LOG. 119-44E
BRG 349
RNG 26250 yds
CRS 340
SPD 9 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK, AO, AK, SC,SC,SC,SC.
REMARK
Convoy
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.8

No.5
DATE 1944/09/11
TIME 1207
LAT. 20-30N
LOG. 119-44E
BRG 324
RNG 28250 yds
CRS 345
SPD 10 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE 12+ AK/AO, 5+ Escorts
REMARK
Large Convoy
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 9

No.6
DATE 1944/09/12
TIME 0226
LAT. 20-20N
LOG. 117-35E
BRG 001
RNG 27747 yds
CRS 050
SPD 11 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,DD, SC, SC, EV,EV
REMARK
Convoy
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.10
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.11
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.11-A
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.12
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.13

No.7
DATE 1944/09/13
TIME 1000
LAT. 21-13N
LOG. 118-41E
BRG 345
RNG 6000 yds
CRS 230
SPD 11 kts
HOW Visual
TYPE SS
REMARK
PAMPANTIO SS-383

No.8
DATE 1944/09/14
TIME 0751
LAT. 20-0N
LOG. 119-20E
BRG 029
RNG 29500 yds
CRS 235
SPD 8 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AK,AO,AO, SC, SC, EV, SC(>)
REMARK
Convoy
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.14

No.9
DATE 1944/09/14
TIME 1420
LAT. 19-56N
LOG. 118-50E
BRG 080
RNG 26500 yds
CRS 100
SPD 9 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE
REMARK
Large convoy
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.14
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.15
GUN ACTION NO.2

No.10
DATE 1944/09/15
TIME 0541
LAT. 20-47N
LOG. 120-05E
BRG 206
RNG 29350 yds
CRS 180*
SPD 20+**
HOW SJ only
TYPE --
REMARK
* Estimated based on radar information.

Believe two pips closing fast were ASW patrol/rescue sent for crippled freighter.
Closed at high speed, BARB avoided.

No.11
DATE 1944/09/17
TIME 0411
LAT. 20-28N
LOG. 117-59E
BRG 206
RNG 27550 yds
CRS 041
SPD 11
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE AO,AO,AO,AO,AO,AO,CVE,DE,SC,SC,SC
REMARK
Tanker Convoy with Escort carrier.
GUN ACTION NO.3

No.12
DATE 1944/09/21
TIME 0601
LAT. 19-50N
LOG. 117-8E
BRG 238
RNG 27550 yds
CRS 223
SPD 10 kts
HOW SJ-Visual
TYPE 12+AK/AO,4-6 DE/SC
REMARK
Convoy
Contact Report Sent.

No.13
DATE 1944/09/21
TIME 1958
LAT. 19-9N
LOG. 118-36E
BRG 146
RNG 16,200 yds (estimated)
CRS 040
SPD 9 kts
HOW Visual-Sound
TYPE 12+ AK/AO, 4-5 DE,SC.
REMARK
Large convoy.

No.14
DATE 1944/09/22
TIME 1924
LAT. 19-45N
LOG. 122-0E
BRG 060
RNG 4500 yards (estimated)
CRS 345
SPD 9 kts
HOW Visual-Periscope, Sound
TYPE SS
REMARK
Midget submarine in Balintang Channel 10 NM North Babuyan Island.

(F) ATTACK DATA

Torpedo Attacks

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0033 DATE August 31 1944 LAT. 21-4N LOG.119-44E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION

Large convoy eight AK, two AO, five escorts. Merchants in three columns about 1000 yards apart, 600-700 yards between ships. Due to moonlight unable to make surface approach and attack.
Escort screen and track shift away forced firing from longer range than desired. Torpedoes set to
low power. Selected large AO of around 10000 tons (Target No.1) in rear of center column.
Selected mid sized AO of 6000 tons (Target No.2) lead of starboard column. Timed shots
so torpedoes would pass astern of escorts. Fired three torpedoes at each AO from 6750/5540 yards.

SHIPS SUNK:
None

SHIPS DAMAGED

One mid sized AK. Estimated 4500 tons.

DAMAGE DETERMINED BY:

Observed 'flash' of explosion when torpedo hit target. This illuminated target long enough
get a decent glimpse of what torpedo hit.

(Target No.1)
Target draft: 28 ft Course: 160 AOB: 73 S Speed: 11 kts Range: 6750 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 344 Target True Bearing: 54 (at firing)

(Target No.2)
Target draft: 25 ft Course: 160 AOB: 93 s Speed: 11 kts Range: 5540 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 001 Target True Bearing: 072 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged-Night-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 1
Track Angle 93 S
Gyro Angle 004 S
Torpedo Course 074
Depth Set 5 ft
Power Low
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42500
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23500
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13500
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 2
Track Angle 93 S
Gyro Angle 004 S
Torpedo Course 074
Depth Set 5 ft
Power Low
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42501
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23501
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13501
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 3
Track Angle 93 S
Gyro Angle 004 S
Torpedo Course 074
Depth Set 5 ft
Power Low
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42502
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23502
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13502
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No. Fired 4
Track Angle 115 S
Gyro Angle 22 R
Torpedo Course 093
Depth Set 5 ft
Power Low
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42504
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23504
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13504
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 5
Track Angle 115 S
Gyro Angle 22 R
Torpedo Course 093
Depth Set 5 ft
Power Low
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42505
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23505
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13505
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 6
Track Angle 115 S
Gyro Angle 22 R
Torpedo Course 093
Depth Set 5 ft
Power Low
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42506
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23506
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13506
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Torpedoes tracked properly and if had not been spotted due to phospohresence on a moonlit night,
would have hit targets aimed. Torpedo No.3 missed its intended target but found another in
outer port column. Both tankers fired at later identified and sunk in Attack No.2 and Attack No.4.
Identity of damaged AK was never ascertained.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0346 DATE August 31 1944 LAT. 20-50N LOG. 119-41E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION

End around on convoy following Attack No.1. Closed on surfaced and submerged after approach for attack. Located AO DAISHIN MARU. Fired two torpedoes 1700 yards.

SHIPS SUNK:

AO DAISHIN MARU 5150 tons
20-50N 119-41E
1944/08/31 0404

DAMAGE DETERMINED BY:

Observed torpedoes hit. Tanker ignited in massive explosion and fireball.
Observed tanker sink.

(Torpedo No.1,2,3,4,)
Target draft: 25 ft Course: 160 AOB: 90 S Speed: 10.5 kts Range: 1650 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 03 Target True Bearing: 096 (at firing)

(Torpedo No.5)
Target draft: 25 ft Course: 175 AOB: 110 S Speed: 7 kts Range: 1300 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 0 Target True Bearing: 090 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged-Night-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 1
Track Angle 102
Gyro Angle 017 R
Torpedo Course 111
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42507
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23507
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13507
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 2
Track Angle 102
Gyro Angle 017 R
Torpedo Course 111
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42508
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23508
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13508
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 3
Track Angle 102
Gyro Angle 017 R
Torpedo Course 111
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42509
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23509
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13509
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 4
Track Angle 102
Gyro Angle 017 R
Torpedo Course 111
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42510
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23510
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13510
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 5
Track Angle 102
Gyro Angle 017 R
Torpedo Course 111
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 42511
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 23511
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.13511
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Target spotted wakes of first four torpedoes due to phosphoresenct wakes in the
near full moon. Fifth torpedo, compensating for speed and angle changes did the job.
Tanker obviously loaded, given way it ignited from one torpedo hit.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0402 DATE August 31 1944 LAT. 20-50N LOG. 119-41E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION

After sinking AO in Attack No.2, AK closed aboard fired on BARB's periscope, and attempted to
ram. BARB went to 100 feet. Upon return to periscope depth, the fires of the burning AK,
which was nearly submerged in water, just masts and stack poking aboce the surface, illuminated
a large AK which sailed to her strboard side. Conducted a quick set up and when
AK emerged clear of sinking tanker, fired three MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 7,8,9 at
range of 500 yards, with torpedoes set to 8 ft.

SHIPS SUNK:

AK JOGU MARU 6669 tons
20-50N 119-41E
1944/08/31 0403

DAMAGE DETERMINED BY:

Observed torpedoes hit. Vessel ignited in massive explosion,
followed by secondaries.Observed vessel split in two and sink.

Target draft: 25 ft Course: 155 AOB: 88 S Speed: 5.5 kts Range: 500 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 181 Target True Bearing: 284 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged-Night-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 7
Track Angle 148 P
Gyro Angle 347 L
Torpedo Course 090
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 44293
Mark Exploder 8-2
Serial No. 26593
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.135593
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 8
Track Angle 148 P
Gyro Angle 347 L
Torpedo Course 090
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 44294
Mark Exploder 8-2
Serial No. 26594
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.135594
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 9
Track Angle 148 P
Gyro Angle 347 L
Torpedo Course 090
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 44295
Mark Exploder 8-2
Serial No. 26595
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.135595
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Torpedoes hit as aimed, setting off a massive series of explosions.
Believe vessel was a ammunition ship. Incidently, this was the AK
that fired on and attempted to ram BARB's scope following Attack No.2.

__________________________________________________ _________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.4. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0408 DATE August 31 1944 LAT. 20-50N LOG. 119-41E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION

After sinking AO in Attack No.2,and AK in Attack No. 3., AO NAMPO MARU,
original target in Attack No. 1 fired in direction of BARB's scope and in spite of turn,
presented a perfect set up if range was opened. Ordered Ahead Flank, which opened the range
sufficiently. Having just expended Tube 7,8,9, one MK 18-2 torpedo loaded in Tube 10 was all BARB had for this quick shot. Fired from 650 yards.

SHIPS SUNK:

AO NAMPO MARU 10000 tons
20-50N 119-41E
1944/08/31 0409

DETERMINED BY:

Observed torpedo hit. Tanker ignited in massive explosion.
Observed vessel split in two and sink.

Target draft: 28.2 ft Course: 174 AOB: 75 S Speed: 5.5 kts Range: 650 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 180 Target True Bearing: 285 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged-Night-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 10
Track Angle 101 P
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 103
Depth Set 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 44297
Mark Exploder 8-2
Serial No. 26597
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.135597
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 0
Type Spread None
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Torpedo hit amidships, causing large fire and explosion, which broke
the tankers back.

__________________________________________________ _________________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.5. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 1412 DATE August 31 1944 LAT. 20-0N LOG. 119-30E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Remnants of convoy attacked by BARB, QUEENFISH, TUNNY through night
and early morning. Worked inside gap in screen on starboard side. Fired four
MK 18-2 torpedoes from stern tubes at AP KYOKUYO MARU 6783 tons from
a range of 2548 yards.

SHIPS SUNK:
None

Target draft: 28.2 ft Course: 220 AOB: 88 S Speed: 13 kts Range:2548 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing:178 Target True Bearing: 138 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 7
Track Angle 52 S
Gyro Angle 36 R
Torpedo Course 357
Depth Set 10 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 43000
Mark Exploder 8-2
Serial No. 26000
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.14002
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 8
Track Angle 52 S
Gyro Angle 36 R
Torpedo Course 357
Depth Set 10 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 43001
Mark Exploder 8-2
Serial No. 26001
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.14001
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 9
Track Angle 52 S
Gyro Angle 36 R
Torpedo Course 357
Depth Set 10 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 43002
Mark Exploder 8-2
Serial No. 26002
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.14002
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 10
Track Angle 52 S
Gyro Angle 36 R
Torpedo Course 357
Depth Set 10 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 43003
Mark Exploder 8-2
Serial No. 26003
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.14003
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Target during torpedo run opened range by moving further towards port side of convoy.
This, along with requisite increased in speed opened range, causing torpedoes to reach max range of 4000
yards and miss. AP's move appeared to be routine station change, as convoy was not aware of BARB's presence.
__________________________________________________ _________________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.6. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 1549 DATE August 31 1944 LAT. 20-0N LOG. 119-30E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Damaged AK trailing convoy, attempting to catch up.
Visible hole at waterline from earlier torpedo impact.
Vessel was low in water but underway making 11 knots.
Fired two torpedoes from 1200 yards.

SHIPS SUNK:
AK KOTO MARU 4466 tons *
19-55N 118-31E
1600 1944/08/31

*GUN ACTION NO.1 contributed to sinking.

Target draft: 21.3 ft Course: 215 AOB:95 P Speed:11 Range: 1200 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing:0 Target True Bearing: 124 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 5
Track Angle 95 S
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 123
Depth Set 6 ft
Power Standard High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 23-2
Serial No. 44554
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245313
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21881
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 6
Track Angle 95 S
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 123
Depth Set 6 ft
Power Standard High
Hit or miss Hit Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 23-2
Serial No. 44554
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245313
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.2288
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Light chop
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Damaged AK managed to maneuver enough, causing one torpedo to miss ahead, and another to hit her bow.
Serious flooding led to vessel with heavy down angle with props breaching the surface due to stern rising.

Ordered BATTLE SURFACE (Gun Action No.1) to finish vessel off and save torpedoes.
Three four inch gun hits caused vessel to quickly sink by the bow, with stern high in air.

__________________________________________________ _______________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 7. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 1517 DATE September 11 1944 LAT.20-44N LOG. 119-01E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Large Northbound convoy contacted on SJ radar. Convoy sailing in four columns spaced about 2000 yards apart,
with about 1000-1200 yards spacing between ships. Total pips counted in the "main body" were 14-16. A ring of
six or more pips on scope, presumed to be escorts surrounded the merchants. Initially attempted to shadow
convoy until night fall for coordinated night surface attack. However, after forced to dive to avoid SD
contact (convoys air cover), convoy zigged towards BARB while submerged deep. At periscope depth convoy was just six miles
to port and closing. With enemy coming to BARB, decided to attack. Submerged, BARB worked
inside convoy from the front starboard, avoided a Matsu Class DE (radar equipped) lead escort, and
crossed the outer starboard column. Lead AK in first center column was a smaller vessel, ignored it
as spotted AO SANRAKU MARU 3000 tons astern. Being northbound, tanker was
suspected to be carrying oil to Japan, indicated as well by riding lower in water.
Approached tanker and fired three MK 14-3A torpedoes at a range of 1511 yards.

SHIPS SUNK:
AO SANRAKU MARU 3000 tons
20-44N 119-01E
1518 1944/09/11

Target draft: 19.7 ft Course: 055 AOB: 82 S Speed: 10 kts Range: 1511 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 347 Target True Bearing:314 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 1
Track Angle 94 S
Gyro Angle 359 R
Torpedo Course 327
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 44950
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245950
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21950
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 2
Track Angle 94 S
Gyro Angle 359 R
Torpedo Course 327
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 44951
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245951
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21951
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 3
Track Angle 94 S
Gyro Angle 359 R
Torpedo Course 327
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 44952
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245952
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21952
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Fired three torpedoes on indviidual bearings aimed admidships, aft stack, and forward mast
As with most loaded tankers, more thank one torpedo proved somewhat redundant, as initial torpedo hit
is typically enough to ignite volatile fuel/oil cargo aboard, resulting in a destructive explosion.
However, a spread was fired to account for being detected given daylight and clear conditions or attack
or torpedo malfunction.

Convoy attacked was quite large and well protected by Japanese standards. Reports ofa increase
in enemy convoy size, composition, and protection, including multiple escorts and air cover have become
normal as of late. Formation spacing made attack more than one target at a time difficult. Enemy escorts and
air cover were first team and proved a challenge. One exception, is a apparent failure by enemy air cover to report
having bombed BARB or miscommunication, that led to convoy zigging toward BARB, setting up convoy for submerged
attack.

__________________________________________________ _________________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.10. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0312 DATE September 12 1944 LAT. 20-18N LOG. 117-31E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Destroyer and two other escorts began pursuing BARB on the surface. With engines on
overload, BARB was able to outpace two subchser type escorts, but naturally, the DD, guided by his radar,
closed at a high rate of speed estimated 30+ knots and was overtaking BARB. Decided to utilize the
wakeless electric fish loaded in stern tubes for "down the throat" shot.. Almost as if the DD's Captain
sensed this, she began to zig back and forth along her track, at 25 knots estimated, as she was still closing the range.
A quick estimation of the timing garnered a solution with a chance to work. Fired two MK 18-2 torpedoes
from tubes 7,8, at a range of 3100 yards. Fired tube MK 18-2 from tube 10 at 2900 yards.

SHIPS SUNK:

DD Fubuki Class 1680 tons
20-18N 227-31E
0329 1944/09/12

DETERMINED BY:

Observed two torpedo hits on destroyer. Large fires forward and amidships.
Vessel slowed and observed down by bow, burning. Observed/
heard large explosion in distance. Contact disappeared from radar as well
at same time.

Target draft: 11.5 ft Course: 135 AOB: 0 Speed: 25+ kts Range: 3100 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 180 Target True Bearing: 046 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged-Day-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 7
Track Angle 179
Gyro Angle 171
Torpedo Course 037
Depth Set 3.5 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 41275
Mark Exploder 8
Serial No. 39245
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18-1
Serial No.21950
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Single bearing
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 8
Track Angle 179
Gyro Angle 171
Torpedo Course 037
Depth Set 3.5 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 41276
Mark Exploder 8
Serial No. 39246
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18-1
Serial No.21956
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Single bearing
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 9
Track Angle 178
Gyro Angle 172
Torpedo Course 038
Depth Set 3.5 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 41277
Mark Exploder 8
Serial No. 39247
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.21957
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 120 seconds
Type Spread Single bearing
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Fired torpedo hit, although intended to be fatal, served as a "marker"
which assisted the fire control party. Quite surprised after the first hit, DD continued its pursuit of BARB.
There was a 120 second interval before the fatal torpedo was fired from the first two.
DD was making his zigg to port and sailed right into the well timed fish. MK 18 fish, with their lack of wake
are preferred for placement in stern tubes for just this sort of situation.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _____

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.11. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0447 DATE September 12 1944 LAT.20-23N LOG. 117-31E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Attack on convoy after sinking pursuing DD and evading other escorts. Moved to port side of convoy for attac.
Ships were alerted and consant helming along base course 052. Approached three md sized AK's in column spaced about 900 yards
apart. Fired tubes 3,4, from 1700 yards.

SHIPS SUNK:
None

Target draft: 24 ft Course: AOB: 54 P Speed: 5 kts Range: 1700 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing:357 Target True Bearing: 157 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Night-Surface-TBT

Tube No.Fired 3
Track Angle 62 P
Gyro Angle 348 L
Torpedo Course 148
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 44956
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245956
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21956
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 4
Track Angle 62 P
Gyro Angle 348 L
Torpedo Course 148
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 44957
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245957
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21957
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Fired two torpedoes. Target increased speed slightly after firing, causing
torpedoes to miss slightly astern.

__________________________________________________ _________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.11-A. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0449 DATE September 12 1944 LAT.20-23N LOG. 117-31E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Attack on convoy after sinking pursuing DD and evading other escorts. Moved to port side of convoy for attac.
Ships were alerted and consant helming along base course 052. Approached three mid sized AK's in column spaced
900 yards apart. Fired on lead in column (Attack No.12) but torpedoes missed. No longer
presenting favorable angle, switched setup to mid sized AK astern. Fired tubes 5,6, at range of 1900
yards.

SHIPS DAMAGED

Mid sized AK 4000 tons. Similar to
AK MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons.
20-23N 117-36E
0450 1944/09/12

DETERMINED BY:

Observed two torpedoes hit target.
Large fire broken out, target slowed and settled in water,
but remained underway and did not appear to be sinking.

Target draft: 15 ft Course: 052 AOB: 70 P Speed: 5 kts Range: 1900 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing:0 Target True Bearing: 160 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Night-Surface-TBT

Tube No.Fired 5
Track Angle 62 P
Gyro Angle 355 L
Torpedo Course 152
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 44958
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245958
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21958
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Single bearing
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 6
Track Angle 62 P
Gyro Angle 355 L
Torpedo Course 152
Depth Set 8 ft
Power High
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 44959
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 245959
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21959
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Single bearing
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

In a quick set up, torpedoes fired on single bearing at 5 second intervals.
Torpedoes hit just forward of admiships. BARB illuminated by searchlights of other AK's and came under
heavy, but inaccurate deck gun and machine gun fire. No damage.
__________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.12 PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0457 DATE September 12 1944 LAT.20-23N LOG. 117-31E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Damaged AK in previous attack (Attack No. 13) continued underway. To ensure sinking
of vessel, fired two MK 18-2 torpedoes from stern tubes 7,8, at the range of 3000 yards.
Enemy escorts, alerted by previous attack, were rapidly closing on BARB.

SHIPS SUNK

Mid sized AK 4000 tons. Similar to
AK MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons.
20-23N 117-36E
0501 1944/09/12

DETERMINED BY:

Observed two torpedoes hit vessel damaged in previous (Attack No.13)
attack. Observed vessel sink.

Target draft: 15 ft Course: 048 AOB: 85 P Speed: 3.5 kts Range: 3000 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing:180 Target True Bearing: 150 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Night-Surface-TBT

Tube No.Fired 7
Track Angle 85 P
Gyro Angle 353 L
Torpedo Course 304
Depth Set 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-1
Serial No. 44760
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 24760
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21760
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 8
Track Angle 85 P
Gyro Angle 353 L
Torpedo Course 304
Depth Set 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-1
Serial No. 44762
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 24762
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21762
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Two torpedo hits amidships and aft of stack were devastating and provided
the coup de grace for target vessel. A brilliant fire ignited amidships after
final torpedo impact, which served to illuminate general area. This illumination
provided a silhouette of a fast approaching Type C Escort Vessel, previously undetected
BARB came under heavy but inaccurate deck gun and machine gun fire during retirement.
__________________________________________________ ____________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.13. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 1137 DATE September 12 1944 LAT.20-59N LOG. 118-14E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Convoy attack previously in Attack No's 12, 13, 13-A. Pulled ahead
to reload tubes and let convoy calm down a bit for dawn attack. Enemy escort assumed
position which required firing from longer range and different angle than desired. Fired tubes 1,2,3 from 3259 yards at AK JOGU MARU 6540 tons.

SHIPS SUNK
None

Target draft: 18 ft Course: 045 AOB: Speed: 11 kts Range: 3259 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 0 Target True Bearing: 175 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Dawn-Submerged-Periscope

Tube No.Fired 1
Track Angle 109 P
Gyro Angle 347 L
Torpedo Course 161
Depth Set 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 448455
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 24855
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21855
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 2
Track Angle 109 P
Gyro Angle 347 L
Torpedo Course 161
Depth Set 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 448456
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 24856
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21856
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 3
Track Angle 109 P
Gyro Angle 347 L
Torpedo Course 161
Depth Set 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 44847
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 24857
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.21855\7
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Sharp eyed lookouts on AK spotted torpedo wakes in dawn light. Only skilled maneuvering
by her Captain saved JOGU MARU. Torpedoes, surprisingly did not hit any other target in convoy
and reached end of run.

__________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.14. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0957 DATE September 14 1944 LAT.19-42N LOG. 119-00E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Acting on contact report, BARB chased down a convoy in Luzon Straits
on a SSW course. After a end around opted for a night surface attack
just before dawn. Originally planned to target large AK on outer column, observed
center column had one large AK leading two large AO. Closed range for MK 18 shot on large AO at center of
the center column. Fired MK 18-2 torpedoes from tubes 7,8,9 at a range of
2800 yards. All stern torpedoes expended.

SHIPS SUNK

AO Unidentified 10000 tons. Similar to AKATSUKI MARU 11800 tons.
19-42N 119-00E
1008 1944/09/12

Target draft: 26 ft Course: 250 AOB: 77 P Speed: 8 kts Range: 2800 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 195 Target True Bearing: 321 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Night-Surface-TBT

Tube No.Fired 7
Track Angle 87 P
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 126
Depth 8ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 44500
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 27500
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.27500
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Heavy
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 8
Track Angle 87 P
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 126
Depth 8ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 44501
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 27501
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.27501
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Heavy
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 9
Track Angle 87 P
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 126
Depth 8ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo 18-2
Serial No. 44503
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No. 27503
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 18
Serial No.27503
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Heavy
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Fired torpedoes to hit 20 yards along length of tanker.
Vessel erupted into the massive fireball characteristic of
fully loaded tanker after first hit. As vessel was part ofa southbound convoy, likely carrying refined gasoline to enemy forces
abroad.Came under heavy deck gun and machine gun fire vessels in outer column. BARB was
briefly illuminated by spotlight and star shell. Gunfire was not accurate but a few close splashes.
BARB was illuminated for a time by star shells and searchlights. Escorts (lead and port) chased BARB and fired upon, but never located exact position.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.14. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0420 DATE September 15 1944 LAT. LOG.

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

Tracked large convoy throughout day. After dark infiltrated convoy via
gap in forward starboard screen during convoy's rouitne zig just after sunset.
Turned into slot between first center and starboard columns. Trolled along
between columns at 7 knots with ships on each side of BARB at 1500-1600 yards.
Spotted large tankers in middle column and brought bow tubes to bear.
Let a smaller tanker pass by in order to take shot at larger AO identified as TEIYO MARU
Fired tubes 1,2,3 at TEIYO MARU from a range of 1500 yards.

SHIPS SUNK

AO TEIYO MARU 99849 tons
20-46N 120-03E
0229 1944/09/15

DETERMINED BY:

Observed three torpedoes hit target.
Vessel exploded in characteristic fashion of
a fully loaded tanker. Observed vessel
sink.

Target draft: 30 ft Course: 085 AOB: 84 S Speed: 9.5 kts Range: 1500 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 348 Target True Bearing: 346 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Night-Surface-TBT

Tube No.Fired 1
Track Angle 96 S
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 357
Depth 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo MK 23-2
Serial No.39450
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No.39050
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.22350
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 2
Track Angle 96 S
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 357
Depth 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo MK 23-2
Serial No.39450
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No.39051
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.22352
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 3
Track Angle 96 S
Gyro Angle 0
Torpedo Course 357
Depth 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo MK 23-2
Serial No.39453
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No.39055
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.22361
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Fired torpedoes on divergent spread with points of aim amidships, forward mast,
and stack aft. All three torpedoes hit, igniting a massive, devastating, explosion and fireball
expected from a fully loaded tanker. Second torpedo hit seemed to set things off.
Third torpedo hit aft under stack, set off another massive explosion,
likely blowing out her boilers/engines. Tanker took a down angle by stern with fires ranging.

With BARB just 1500 yards away and on the surface, the sounds and sights really set in for BARB, especially those topside. BARB came under heavy, but inaccurate gunfire from nearby vessels.

__________________________________________________ ___________________________________

U.S.S. BARB (SS220) TORPEDO ATTACK NO.15. PATROL NO. 9.

TIME 0230 DATE September 15 1944 LAT.20-46 LOG.120-03E

TARGET DATA-DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:

After sinking AO TEIYO MARU (Attack N.14), BARB plowed across the convoy at flank speed,
dodging gunfire, searchlights, incoming escorts, en route
to a gap which should permit a escape to port side of convoy.Along way spotted
a large AK later identified as SHOHEI MARU or similar/or that class AK. With three torpedoes
left and a setup presenting itself, decided to attack. Fired tubes 4,5,6 from a range of 1500 yards.

SHIPS DAMAGED:
AK SHOHEI MARU 9980 tons
20-46N 120-03E
0231 1944/09/15

Target draft: 26 ft Course: 065 AOB: 100 P Speed: 5 kts Range: 1500 yds (at firing)
Target Bearing: 0 Target True Bearing: 085 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (at firing)

Type Attack: Night-Surface-TBT

Tube No.Fired 4
Track Angle 96 S
Gyro Angle 357 R
Torpedo Course 015
Depth 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo MK 14-3A
Serial No.42477
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No.32477
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.22467
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 5
Track Angle 96 S
Gyro Angle 357 R
Torpedo Course 015
Depth 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Miss
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo MK 14-3A
Serial No.42478
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No.32478
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.22468
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

Tube No.Fired 6
Track Angle 96 S
Gyro Angle 357 R
Torpedo Course 015
Depth 8 ft
Power Standard
Hit or miss Hit
Erratic No
Mark Torpedo MK 23-2
Serial No.40454
Mark Exploder 6-4
Serial No.30243
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No.22155
Explosive TPX
Firing Interval 5 seconds
Type Spread Divergent
Sea Conditions Calm
Overhaul Activity Sub Base-Pearl Harbor

REMARKS:

Due to possible speed error, first two torpedoes missed slightly astern, but third torpedo,
aimed a forward mast, hit the stern of the AK. Out of torpedoes, with star shells illuminating area,
under machine gun fire from the AK, BARB had to turn away and depart area.

Observed the AK was damaged, slowed and the went dead in the water. Obviously propulsion/steering damaged
by the torpedo hit to the stern. Rest of convoy moved on, but one AK remained in area.
BARB hung out in area to wait out the escort, so could finish off the AK with deck gun if possible.
(See Gun Action No.2)

Gun Actions

USS BARB (SS220) GUN ACTION N0.1. WAR PATROL NO.9.

DATE: August 31 1944 Time: 1600
LAT.19-55N LOG. 119-31E

DESCRIPTION:

AK crippled by bow torpedo hit. Surfaced at 2500 yards to finish off with gunfire.
Received brief gunfire from stern machine guns as vessel was down by bow. Three
solid hits and a few more from 40mm and 20mm guns silenced the enemy gunners,
and vessel quickly went down by the bow.

GUNNERY FIRE CONTROL DATA GUN ACTION NO.1 (at firing)

Target Bearing: 030
Target True Bearing:260
Target AOB: 80 P
Target Range 2500 yds
Target Course 215
Target Speed 0

Rounds Expended:

4" 50 Caliber- 4 (HE)

40mm- 21 (HE)

20mm- 110 HE

.50 MG- 0

Hits :

4" 50 Caliber- 3

Point of Aim: Waterline-amidships-port

Malfunctions-

None

Shells remaining after attack:

4 " 50 Caliber- 147

40mm 979

20mm 779

.50 cal MG 3000

Casualties: None.

__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________

USS BARB (SS220) GUN ACTION N0.2. WAR PATROL NO.9.

DATE: Spetember 15 1944 Time: 0524-0531
LAT.20-50N LOG120-5E.

DESCRIPTION:

AK SHOHEI MARU crippled by torpedo attack but afloat. Positioned BARB 4300 yards off port side.
Fired from range 4300 yards. Vessel likely abandoned as no response or activity noticed in response to
BARBs gunfire.

SHIP SUNK:

AK SHOHEI MARU 9980 tons
20-47N 120-03E
0538 1944/09/15

DETERMINED BY:

Observed multiple hits by deck gun on crippled AK. Several large fires burned for several minutes,
forward mast collapsed. A hit at 0531 amidships set off a large explosion, followed by several
explosions over next few minutes. Observed burning vessel sink.

GUNNERY FIRE CONTROL DATA GUN ACTION NO.1 (at firing)

Target Bearing: 023
Target True Bearing: 180
Target AOB: 73 P
Target Range 4300 yds
Target Course 055
Target Speed 0

Rounds Expended:

4" 50 Caliber- 44 HE

40MM 0

20MM 0

.50 MG 0

Hits

19 confirmed. 2-3 near misses.

Point of Aim:

Portside, waterline.

Malfunctions-

0

Shells remaining after attack

116 (150 at start of action)

Casualties: None.

__________________________________________________ ____________________________

USS BARB (SS220) GUN ACTION N0.3. WAR PATROL NO.9.
DATE: September 17 1944 Time:0902-0904
LAT. 20-50N LOG. 118-4E

DESCRIPTION:

Encountered convoy with seven AO, one CVE, and four escorts.
All torpedoes expended, BARB shadowed convoy, send contact reports.
Convoy came under attack by one, possibly two other submarines vectored in by contact report.

In order to provide a distraction to escorts, induce further chaors, and hope to damage
enemy, BARB opened fire from 5000 yards off port side on the escort carrier.

SHIP DAMAGED:

TAIYO Class CVE 17830 tons
20-50N 118-4E
0904 1944/09/17

DETERMINED BY:

Observed a direct hit on flight deck aft of carrier. A small explosion occurred
followed by a fire which burned for some time. A large objective believed to be aircraft
parked on stern blowed overboard into the sea.

GUNNERY FIRE CONTROL DATA GUN ACTION NO.1 (at firing)

Target Bearing: 040
Target True Bearing: 170
Target AOB: 80
Target Range 5000 yds
Target Course 040
Target Speed 10 kts

Rounds Expended:

4" 50 Caliber- 5 (HE)

40MM 0

20MM 0

.50 MG 0

Hits-1

Point of Aim: Flight deck

Malfunctions-

0

Shells remaining after attack

112

Casualties: None.

(G) MINES:

No enemy mines were encountered on this patrol.

(H) ANTI-SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Enemy ASW activity in the Luzon Straits area was intense and primarily consisted of day and night
radar equipped air patrols. Many flew low making timely detected by SD radar difficult. As a result, several
were detected at just 5-6 miles and BARB was subseuqently bombed several times. A new tactic
by enemy air patrols appears to be to fly low at high speeds, which makes early detection via SD radar
difficult as it reduces detection range. Enemy appears to keep radar off at times and turn on
as needed based on APR-1 readings.

Surface patrols consisting of DD/DE were encountered and avoided. One responded at a attack on a convoy
and was inbound to assist a crippled vessel damaged by torpedo and finished off later with gunfire.

A midget submarine was encountered in the Balingtang Channel off Babuyan Island. Given their limited range and thus
need to operate from nearby base, highly likely this boat was patrolling the channel for our submarines. BARB was submerged
when spotted the sub and out of torpedoes, so had to evade.
Enemy convoys transiting area often had air cover and one convoy encountered had a escort carrier
in the convoy.

All enemy convoys encountered had at least four escorts, sometimes as many as seven or eight.
These vessels were typically purpose built escort vessels "Kaiboikan", some eve DD and DE type escorts.
Typically, at least one escort in convoy was radar equipped. A radar equipped DD (Fubuki Class)
detected BARB on surface at about 6000 yards and pursued. BARB sunk this DD with a "down the throat" shot from
stern tubes. (Torpedo Attack No. 10).

Depth charge attacks were intense and accurate on this patrol. Enemy has expanded his ASW capabilities
with improved, powerful depth charges and sound/sonar equipment. BARB, out of torpedoes, but working inside
convoy to come up to depth and broadcast radio report, was detected as she ascended from 350 ft and passed 150 feet by
a escort some estimated 4000 yards away. With multiple escorts in convoys, usually at least two remain in area to attack, sometimes more, employing
apparent team tactics. Often conducted attacks in rapid succession.

Evasion of enemy ASW consisted of diving to avoid aircraft. Often times it was found
the APR-1 Radar Warning Receiver detected a aircraft's radar emissions prior to SD contact,
Several dives were initiated due to APR-1 signals prior to contact.

Submerged evasion of attack consisted of silent running, consistent course, and depth changes,
combined with "sprred bursts" of 30-45 seconds during and imemdiately after depth chrge explosions.

BARB's ideal evasion depth has been found to be 390-395 ft. One strong pattern did push BARB from 385 ft to
412 ft. BARB is a well built boat and the 112 ft past test depth seemed to do her no harm.

(I) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE:

No major material defects occurred on this patrol.

*Most damage was repaired at sea. However, serious damage to Hydraulic pumps,

**Bow and Stern dive plane transmissions rendered BARB somewhat sluggish for remainder of the patrol,
especially when submerged, in spite of repairs.

All damage listed was repaired at sea unless otherwise noted.

1. Hydraulic Pumps-Seriously damaged.
2. Bow Dive Plane Transmission**
3. Stern Dive Plane Transmission**
4. Flooding-Aft Engines Room-Sea valves busted. 2 ft water incompartment and flooded bilges.
5. Flooding Aft Torpedo Room-Leaks from aft tubes. 1 ft water in compartment.
6. Trim Pump
7. Forward Batteries
8. Compressor
9. Torpedo Tube No.10
10.Torpedo Tube No.7
11.JP sound gear
12.Various pipes- Leaks in all compartments. Serious leak in conning tower.
13.High Pressure Air lines-Leaks in compartments.
14.Light bulbs-All compartments
15. Glass fixtures-All compartments.

(J) RADIO:

Radio function, especially key on this patrol due to group operations
was excellent. Messages sent and received with little to no trouble.

(K) SOUND CONDITIONS AND SOUND GEAR:

Sound conditions were overall excellent in the patrol area.

Sound gear functioned well until damaged by depth charge attack. JP listening gear was not at optimal performance for remainder of patrol.

(L) RADAR:

SJ

SJ-1 radar performance was excellent on this patrol.
Typical detection range was 24,000 yards. PPI scope once again proved itself a major
tactical advantage for BARB.

SD

SJ radar performance was somewhat inadequate on this patrol.
A apparently new enemy tactic appears to be to fly low at high speed, which made early detection
difficult at times. Typical detection range was 11000 yards or less.

APR-1 often detected radar emissions from aircraft prior to SD contact, providing some early warning.

Enemy Radar

Nearly all enemy aircraft in area were found to be equipped with radar.
Based on encounters it is believed enemy air mounted surface search radar
has a range of of about 15000-20000 yards. Daytime aircraft tend to make sweeps
with radar intermittently and focus on a target at close range, perhaps to counter our radar
warning equipment. Night fliers tend to keep their radars active at all times.

Enemy ship based surface search radar was encountered on at least once vessel in each convoy.
Against a surface submarine the enemy raar appears at times ineffective. However,
BARB was detected at least one from 6000 yards by a destroyer, prior to attack.

(M) THERMAL LAYERS:

Two thermal layers were recorded on this patrol.

1. DATE 1944/08/31
TIME 0044
DEPTH-216 ft
LAT.21-4N
LOG.119-44E

2. DATE 1944/09/15
TIME 1450
DEPTH 130 ft
LAT. 20-47N
LOG. 120-05E

(N) RADAR COUNTERMEASURES:

No known radar countermeasures wer encountered.
While it is not believed typical enemy vessels or aircraft
encountered can detect radar emissions, BARB
exercises caution by keeping SJ radar off for majority of time,
with sweeps every 15 minutes during standard patrol.
Sweeps may be somewhat longer when in contact with/tracking a enemy.

(O) GROUP OPERATIONS:

For this patrol, BARB was assigned to Task Group 17.5 (TG 17.5), a coordinated attack group, or "Wolfpack", with QUEENFISH and TUNNY under the command of CAPT E.R. Swinburne, USN., embarked aboard BARB.
Group was nicknamed "ED's ERADICATORS" after our Commodore. Assigned to the Luzon Straits area, pack operations proved effective and costly for the Japanese. Another Wolfpack, under CDR T.B. Oakley, CO of GROWLER,
"BEN's BUSTERS" operated in area the West . The BUSTERS consisted of GROWLER, PAMPANITO, and SEA LION.

Further underway training was conducted en route to Midway from Pearl Harbor. Upon departure from Pearl Harbor,
group formed a scouting line fifteen miles apart with BARB in the center, TUNNY to port and QUEENFISH to starboard.
This line was maintained the entire journey from Midway until reached the Bashi Channel to enter assigned area
in Luzon Straits. Each boat proceeded independently into assigned area throughout the strait on surface at night.
BARB, QUEENFISH, and SEA LION each patrolled their own designated sector of the assigned area.

After several days of empty seas, contact was made with a convoy on August 30 and coordinated attacks
throughout night and early morning of 31 August savaged the convoy. BARB sunk three of her ships, two, possibly three
were sunk by her packmates.

Follow up attacks on September 1 left more vessels sunk. Contact was lost with TUNNY after 1 September,
as she had apparently been seriously damaged by aircraft bombs and departed area.

BARB expended last of her initial torpedo load and proceeded to SAIPAN to reload torpedoes.

Activity in the straits was somewhat absent during BARB's trip but upon return shifted into overdrive.
While en route to join the BUSTER's for a coordinated attack, BARB encountered a large convoy and attacked,
sinking a tanker.

Night of 11/12 September, convoy was attacked by BARB, GROWLER, SEA LION, QUEENFISH, and later
,PAMAPNITO, at least five ships were sunk and others damaged. Unknown to all at the time,
Allied POW's, mainly British and Australians held captive since Fall of Singapore in early 1942, were aboard as were
being transported to Japan. PAMPANITO first discovered these poor souls and reported in. BARB and QUEENFISH
were directed to the area to assist in the search, locating five men in the water, four Australians and two Brits.

On the 16th, BARB was out of torpedoes, but encountered a convoy with tankers and a escort carrier
Shadowing the convoy, her contact report brought in QUEENFISH, which attacked and sunk a tanker, confirmed.
Although out of torpedoes, BARB opened fire on carrier from 5000 yards with 4 inch deck gun. This was meant
as more of a diversionary tactic, and it worked. After scoring a hit, which blew aircraft off her deck and set her afire,enemy escorts backed off depth charging the QUEENFISH and raced towards BARB, with promptly withdrew.

Overall, coordinated group attacks worked well, especially in this area, where large, well defended convoys are the normal.
Chaos caused among a enemy convoy by coordinated attack served the group well in evasion.

Group sunk a total of seventeen ships. BARB (11), QUEENFISH (4), TUNNY (2).
BARB also damaged a CVE by gunfire. QUEENFISH damaged at least two other ships, TUNNY damaged at least one.

(P) PERSONNEL:

Crew performance was excellent throughout this patrol. This is best attested to by eleven ships
sunk in total, with one carrier damaged. One Officer and twelve men qualified on this patrol and four
advanced in rating.

(Q) HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Health of the crew and habitability of the boat were overall excellent on the patrol.
Extra crew (two officers, plus survivors rescued from water later in patrol) were accommodated with little to no issue. Food was overall excellent and always well prepared, even with somewhat extended duration of the patrol. A "pit stop" at Saipan half way through patrol of course assisted with these matters.

(R) MILES STEAMED-FUEL CONSUMED

(These are estimates, I lost my mileage/calculations somehow, did not save.
Not doing them again lol)

Pearl to Midway
Miles 1350 Gallons 16550

Midway to Area
Miles 3780 Gallons 58560

In Area (Prior to refit)

Miles 3500 Gallons 71,500

Area to Saipan (Refit)

Miles 1750 Gallons 26500

In Area (Post Refit)

Miles 8500 Gallons 145800

Area to Saipan

Miles 1850 27950

Saipan to Majuro
Miles 2400 Gallons 39,556

(S) DURATION

DAYS
Pearl to Midway 5

Midway to Area 15

In Area 6

Area to Saipan 4.5

Saipan to Area 4

In Area 13

Area to Saipan 4

Saipan to Majuro 6

Days Submerged 3

(T) FACTORS IN ENDURANCE:

Torpedoes: 0

Fuel: 23566 gallons

Provisions: 34 days

Crew: Indefinite

Reason for termination of patrol: All torpedoes expended, survivors aboard
in need of medical care.

(U) REMARKS

Busy, long, challenging, but ultimately rewarding war patrol. BARB sunk six tankers, four merchants, one destroyer, and
damaged a escort carrier by gunfire in fifteen torpedo and three gun attcks.
Total estimated tonnage sunk is 78677 tons.

Sheer volume of enemy traffic throughout area provided for a pace of operations not typical of other patrol areas.
Luzon Strait as one would assume, if a vital choke point for enemy shipping. Multiple large, well defended convoys, pass through
a area well patrolled by enemy aircraft and surface vessels.

Aside from of sinking enemy vessels, BARB rescued six POW's from the sea, inadvertently put there
torpedoes of our subs, when ships they were aboard, bound for Japan, were sunk on 11/12/ September.
This was BARB's Ninth War Patrol, and my second in command.

E.B. Fluckey

Bubblehead1980

03-13-22, 03:33 AM

USS BARB SS-220, was lost on 18 November 1944 at 32-09N 127-36E in Area 9, in the East China Sea, just south of Tsushima Strait.

BARB, chased a convoy all night, after multiple attempts, was unable to attack on surface due to vigilant, radar equipped escorts. Tried for a dawn approach submerged , but was spotted by a PETE floatplane which spotted BARB at periscope depth, alerting escorts.

Escorts located BARB in the waters with 315 max depth waters and after a depth charging lasting from dawn until noon 18 November, BARB had escaped and was cruising at 300 feet, just off the bottom of the sea, when began rise to periscope depth at 1900 for a visual check , after hours of no contact with enemy.

As BARB passed 125 feet on way to periscope depth, heard a brief noise(presumed to be the low flying aircraft), and then two depth charge explosions which severely shook the boat. Followed four seconds later by even more intense explosions. Lights went out for five seconds, flooding reported in stern, damage reports rolled in, along with calls for medic.

I had external cam on this patrol, so went outside after first explosion.
One aerial depth charge had landed to port, could see the explosion bubble dissipating, while the second depth charge landed to starboard and exploded just as I got to external view. So two aerial depth charges bracketed BARB's stern about around the point where stern torpedo room bulkhead to maneuvering room would be on a GATO sub, very close. Perhaps 20 feet, within kill range for depth charges typically. Then I saw the aerial bombs dropped, one of which scored a direct hit on the stern. Yep, the lucky, bomb contacted the stern around the stern torpedo room loading hatch.
(I tried to screenshot, hit the keys but apparently not fast enough as this happened quite fast)

BARB's stern had taken two close depth charges, and a few seconds later, a DIRECT bomb hit seconds later from a EMILY flying boat, which likely detected BARB with MAD (TMO planes have a sensor simulating MAD in late war). and was lined up for attack as we , not aware of the plane, began rising to periscope depth.

Stern was destroyed, wrecked. Large hole blow in it, with port prop shaft and stern torpedo bulkhead destroyed, nearly all equipment smashed and sadly, all but one crewman killed in the stern torpedo room, with one severely injured (health was 20/100. Flooding also in engine rooms , bulkhead 90 percent damaged with all suffering severe injuries in compartment. Hull damage was at 80 percent. Boat lingered a few moments, stern torpedo and engine rooms rapidly flooded, BARB took a down angle by stern and paused at 88 feet, stopping her ascent, began rapidly going down in spite of ahead flank speed.. Blew ballast tanks to get to surface to save the crew but did not rise in time as flooded out compartments stern dragged her down . Boat, in 300 ft waters with angle caught its self and bow was about to break the surface while what was left aft touched bottom. Just then, EMILY made another attack at BARB was at 94 ft, dropping a depth charge above, but not terribly close, yet close enough to shake the boat. Bow slid beneath surface, stern crashed into bottom. Hull collapsed, went to 100 percent. All was lost.

Oddly enough, the boats external model then just disappeared lol but could stay inside, no controls worked, but game did not end. I had to exit. Side effects of altering the damage model is sometimes SH 4 does not play out the "fade to black" sequence . Can also have to do with the bottom. I've been depth charged, pounded into the sea floor before, where sub disappears lol and external model is gone and im dead, but dont get the death fade to black sequence.

Definitely a lucky hit for the plane. This was first time I've been sunk or even severely damaged by aircraft in years lol. Disappointing. really had a great campaign going with the BARB and this patrol was a exciting and successful one already with just eight torpedoes left aft (All but three fired forward, all bow tubes disabled in November 15 depth charge, could not repair at sea)

Survived these depth charge attacks, being fired at, and chased on surfaced, but taken out by a flying boat. Ahhh. Reminded me of how TMO aircraft earned their reputation for being "evil". :haha:

BARB, during her 10th patrol, which she was on at time of loss, sunk the following vessels:

AO CHIYODA MARU 5004 tons 8 November

AK JOKUJA MARU 7200 tons 8 November

Aikoku Maru Class Auxiliary Cruiser 14500 tons 10 November

CVE Akitsu Escort Carrier 11800 tons. 15 November

Ah, well to start a new campaign.:Kaleun_Salute:

Screen shots:

https://i.postimg.cc/wTQFhNvj/Akitsu-class-CVE.png (https://postimages.org/)

Akitsu Class Escort Carrier (Akitsu Maru Aircraft Transport operated by Japanese Army)

https://i.postimg.cc/kgMsw56F/Akitsu-explosion.png (https://postimages.org/)

AKITSU exploding a few minutes after taking 3 MK 18 torpedo hits.

https://i.postimg.cc/LsnTK0VJ/Akitsu-list.png (https://postimages.org/)

Akitsu listing to port

https://i.postimg.cc/FHPZ6Q0t/Akitsu-long-range.png (https://postimages.org/)

First view of Akitsu through observation periscope.

https://i.postimg.cc/JhvQ1cTP/Akitsu1.png (https://postimages.org/)

Akitsu

https://i.postimg.cc/Ss9fj23q/Akitsuburning.png (https://postimages.org/)

Akitsu burning

https://i.postimg.cc/ZnFPxkJM/Akitsufinished.png (https://postimages.org/)

Akitsu on fire listing. Took about 15 minutes to sink.

https://i.postimg.cc/VsjF8tXW/Akitsulist2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Akitsu listing

https://i.postimg.cc/nrtYmVfm/Akitsu-Torpedo1.png (https://postimages.org/)

First MK 18 torpedo impact

https://i.postimg.cc/m2By2rwf/Akitsu-Torpedo2.png (https://postimages.org/)

Second MK 18 torpedo impact

https://i.postimg.cc/Nj08mPSd/Dcpattern.png (https://postimages.org/)

DC pattern on 15 November following sinkng of Akitsu. From a Type C escort.
Believe this was pattern which damage forward torpedo compartment. Caused some flooding , disabled forward dive planes transmission and tubes 1-6. All six bow tubes could not be repaired at sea.

https://i.postimg.cc/7Y9MCysC/Emilyflyingaay.png (https://postimages.org/)
EMILY which sunk the BARB, flying away after initial drop that scored the fatal hits.

https://i.postimg.cc/zfsnmDBQ/final-DCexpl.png (https://postimages.org/)

Last DC explosion, following follow up drop by the EMILY H8k flying boat.
Unfortunately, the halo effect did not show up on this one as it does usually.

https://i.postimg.cc/vTMfBP5L/sunrise18nov.png (https://postimages.org/)

Sunrise 18 November 1944, escort hunting for BARB as she approached convoy,

https://i.postimg.cc/437zFHJt/wmiltgfloating.png (https://postimages.org/)