In the stock version of the game, you
should get a choice between AP or HE shells for your AA guns. When you see the "Shell" icons on the right side of your screen, click on the type of shell you wish to use and it should load into the gun. The DG works in the sme manner except, you won't have a flak gun, or the shells, until sometime late in the war, 1944/45 I think. Depending on the type of AA gun and the shell you're using, in stock, 1000 rounds is possible, I think. It's been so long since I played but that's what I recall. The (Flak) DG fires several different types of rounds as do the AA guns.
There is a workaround for the DG bug that used to work for me. The only problem is that it didn't work all the time and I can't remember the exact procedure. It involved something like saving the game in Home port, restarting and then changing the location of the DG /OR/ changing the DG before saving, restarting and then your crew appears. I can't remember so I would suggest making one save as soon as you enter port and then experiment after making an additional save.
Communications with HQ doesn't need a grid map in the Pacific theater since all communications are automated. That is, automatically processed in-game as it pertains to your given situation. You cannot send custom tailored messages.
I do remember special abilities crew members in the stock version but forget how frequently they appeared. I believe it has alot to due with the total tonnage sunk as well as the number of patrols/assignments you've completed.
Hope this helps some.
