U.S.S. DACE (SS-247) — war patrol report SS-247_DACE_Part2.pdf

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SS247/A16-3/09
U.S.S. DACE (SS247)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
6 November 1944.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States
Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Division 181.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron 18.
(3) The Commander Task Force 71.
(4) The Commander SEVENTH Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart to CTF-71.
(C) Special Reports.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the fifth war patrol of this vessel conducted in the CELEEES Sea, PALAWAN Passage, and Dangerous Grounds during the period September 1 to November 6, 1944 is forwarded herewith.

B.D. CLAGGETT.

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1350(K) Underway in accordance with Commander Task Force 72 operation Order S56-44 in company with USS DARTER, HMAS WARRNABOOL and HMAS HYALLA. Conducted training exercises with WARRNABOOL and HYALLA until evening of 4 September when WARRNABOOL was detached. Continued training with HYALLA until evening of 5 September when HYALLA departed. Numerous Zed, day and night radar runs and a day and night end around were conducted. No torpedoes were fired. All guns were fired at float target.

The evening of 1 September while making a trim dive a slight jar was felt while passing

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40 feet. Readings and tests taken that night indicated no trouble in the QC-JK sound head which was rigged out at the time. After the deep dive the following morning the QC head showed a zero ground. Lt. M. GODEK, USNR and YOUNGER, C.H., CMOIM, USN investigated head using the shallow water diving outfit and found a large dent in QC side. JK side apparently okay. Studs holding head were also loose indicating we hit something. Pit log and QB apparently all right. QC completely out of commission.

September 2, 1544.
Conducting training enroute DAR/WIN.

September 3, 1544.
Training enroute DAR/WIN.

September 4, 1544.
Training enroute DAR/WIN.

1750(K) Commander R.H. CRANE, USN transferred from USS DARTER to act as training officer.

September 5, 1544.
Training enroute DAR/WIN.

1540(K) Commander R.H. CRANE, USN left ship. HMAS WHYALLA departed. Training completed. This type of underway training is excellent but it is strongly recommended that faster targets be furnished, or a slower speed of advance be maintained in order that the runs could be made more expeditiously.

-2-

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0915(1)  U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.

(B) NARRATIVE

| NAME | RANK OR RATE | NO. OF PATROLS COMPLETED |
|------|||
| CLAGGETT, B.D. | Commander, USN | 8 |
| BENITEZ, R.C. | Lt. Comdr., USN | 8 |
| GODEK, M. | Lieut., D-V(G), USNR | 3 |
| REID, S.F. | Lieut., D-V(G), USNR | 3 |
| DORWORTH, W.J., Jr. | Lt.(jg), E-V(G), USNR | 3 |
| EBEL, A.A. | Lt.(jg), E-V(RS), USNR | 5 |
| JONES, E.H. | Lt.(jg), A-V(RS), USNR | 1 |
| CALDWELL, H.H. | Lt.(jg), U.S.N. | 2 |
| JONES, E.T. | Ensign, USN | 5 |
| BANTA, P. | Ensign, E-M, USNR | 1 |
| MURPHY, H.A. | CTM(PA), USN | 5 |
| HUNTER, D.G. | CQM(AA), USN | 8 |
| WRIGHT, C.L. | CRT(T), V6, USNR | 5 |
| PARDEN, L.B. | CEM(AA), USN | 12 |
| YOUNGER, C.M., Jr. | CMOM(PA), USN | 12 |
| MONROE, F.A. | CMOM(AA), USN | 12 |
| MORSE, R.W. | CY(AA) | 5 |

6 to 10 September

Enroute DARWIN in company with USS DARTER.
Conducted numerous approaches and radar tracking drills on each other.

10 September

0915(1)  Moorea alongside USS COUCAL, DARWIN Harbor.
Set clocks back one hour to "ITEM" time. All times "ITEM" unless otherwise indicated.

1530  Commenced fueling after USS DARTER completed.

-3-

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10 September (Cont'd)
2130 Completed fueling, taking on lub oil, water and topping off provisions.
2140 Underway in company with USS STINGRAY enroute patrol area.

11 September
Enroute area.
0613 Make trim give.
0634 Surfaced.
0740 Sighted STINGRAY; first of several sightings during the day.
0907 S.D. contact 18 miles. No reply to I.F.F. challenge. (Aircraft contact #1)
1235 S.J. contact on plane, 19,000 yards. No reply to I.F.F. challenge. (Aircraft contact #2)
1600 S.J. contact on plane, range 16,000 yards. No reply to I.F.F. challenge. Identified as friendly. (Aircraft contact #3)
2300 Passed between TIMOR and LETI Islands. Entered enemy controlled waters.

12 September
Enroute area.
1825 S.D. burned out transformer. This looks bad as there is no spare and this must be insulated against 20,000 volts.

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13 September
Enroute area.
0018 Exchanged recognition signals with DARTER by means of S.J. radar.
0602 Made trim dive.
0655 Surfaced.
Day completely overcast with low hanging clouds; bad for aircraft spotting. S.D. is still out. Have rewound coil once but that burned out too. Trying again.
1145 Sighted unidentified plane bearing 1100T, range 33 miles. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #4)
1233 Surfaced.
2135 S.J. contact on plane, range 25,000 yards. (Aircraft contact #5)
2250 S.J. contact on plane, range 20,000 yards. (Aircraft contact #6)
2320 S.J. contact on plane, range 21,850 yards. (Aircraft contact #7)
2337 S.J. contact on plane, range 9,500 yards. (Aircraft contact #8) This plane closed to 5,500 yards. Did not dive because bearing was changing indicating he was not making run on us and we were passing through BANKA FASSAGE.

-5-

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13 September (Continued)

Noted large fire on northwest tip of CELEBES. Ploted in at 01°42' N, 125°00' E. First, thought it was flood lights on landing field, but later could make out smoke and flames.

14 September

Enroute area.

0036 Completed transit of BANKA Passage.

0400 S.D. back in commission. Excellent work on the port of Lt.(jge) A.A. EBEL, USNR and WRIGHT, C.L., CRT(T), USNR. After two days work they have rewound a transformer coil that stands up under 20,000 volts.

1205 Sighted plane. Distance 18 miles. Looks like B-24 but no reply to I.F.F. challenge. Passed well clear. (Aircraft contact #9)

1413 Arrived on station. Commenced patrolling at one engine speed on scouting line.

1432 Made trim dive.

1505 Surfaced.

Have received no instruction as to speed to use in patrolling station, or how long I am to remain on patrol before fueling, so have decided to use one engine speed, 75/90. This will enable me to cover my sector twice daily and still not use an excessive amount of fuel.

1814 Sighted unidentified plane, range 7 miles. Submerged to avoid detection. (Aircraft contact #10)

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14 September (Continued)
1850 Surfaced.

15 September
Patrolling line.
0740 Commenced mine sweeping operations. Sank six drifting type mines and exploded one motor- ed type mine with 20mm. See section ITEM for description. All mines were in a tide rip. Decided to move petrol line 10 miles west to avoid this tide rip.

1606 Submerged for training. Held fire control drill.

1658 Surfaced.

2329 S.J. interference--probably MINGO.

16 September
Patrolling line.
0020 Exchanged recognition signals and dope with MINGO by S.J. radar.

0800 S.D. contact 9 miles. Could not see plane in rain squall. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #11)

0858 Surfaced.

1209 S.D. contact 11 miles. Closed to 9 miles so submerged. (Aircraft contact #11) Held fire control drill.

1346 Surfaced.

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17 September
Patrolling line.
1546 Plane contact on S.J. radar, range 18,000 yards. Submerged to avoid detection. (Aircraft contact #13)
1645 Surfaced.
2320 Radar interference. Exchanged information with MINGO.

18 September
Patrolling line.
0721 S.D. contact 9 miles, closed to 4 as we submerged. Plane not sighted in rain squall. (Aircraft contact #14)
0617 Surfaced.
1504 S.J. plane contact 12,000 yards. Not sighted in rain squall. Submerged to avoid detection. (Aircraft contact #15)
1545 Sighted float-type plane XERO through periscope. (Aircraft contact #16)
1623 Surfaced.
2330 Radar interference. Probably MINGO.

19 September
Patrolling line.
0225 Communicated with MINGO by S.J. radar.

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19 September (Continued)
0903 Sighted unidentified bomber while making periscope sweep. Distance nine miles. Submerged to avoid detection. (Aircraft contact #17)
1009 Surfaced.
1605 Submerged for fire control drill.
1654 Surfaced.
20 September
Patrolling line.
0407 S.J. contact on plane, range 23,000 yards. Closed to 20,000 yards, then disappeared. (Aircraft contact #18)
0855 Unidentified aircraft sighted, range 7 miles. Submerged to avoid detection. (Aircraft contact #19)
0942 Surfaced.
1130 Submerged.
1146 Surfaced.
1604 Submerged for fire control drill.
1705 Surfaced.
21 September
Patrolling line.

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21 September (Continued)
0900 Sighted two-engine bomber. S.D. range 14 miles, northerly course. Did not dive. (Aircraft contact #21)
1140 Submerged for drills and training.
1553 Surfaced.

22 September
Patrolling line.
0425 S.J. contact on aircraft 18,000 yards. Closed to 15,000 yards. (Aircraft contact #22)
0900 BETTY-type bomber sighted, range 15 miles. Did not dive. (Aircraft contact #23)
0945 BETTY-type bomber sighted, range 9 miles. Submerged to avoid detection. Watched it cross three miles ahead. (Aircraft contact #24)
1007 Surfaced.
1008 S.D. contact 12 miles. Sighted float type ZERO. Submerged to avoid detection. Watched it cross ahead. (Aircraft contact #25)
1034 Surfaced.
1100 Sighted float-type ZERO, range 10 miles. Observed it turn and start in. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #26)

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22 September (Continued)
1212    Submerged.
1705    Surfac'd.
23 September
1606    Patrolling line.
1700    Surfac'd.
24 September
0520    Patrolling line.
0830    Submerged.
0921    Surfac'd.
1207    Entered Safety Lane. Departed patrol line.
1216    S.D. contact 8 miles. Submerged to avoid detection. (Aircraft contact #27)
1434    Surfac'd.
25 September
0335    Enroute WOENDI.
0335    S.J. contact on STINGRAY. Exchanged recognition signals and dope.

-11-

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25 September (Continued)
0550 Made cawn dive.
0707 Surfaced.
0810 Sighted HALMEHERA Island bearing 1350T, distance 60 miles.
Sighted numerous friendly planes throughout the day.

26 September
Enroute WOENDI.
0522 S.J. contact--9,000 yards. Exchanged recognition signals with DARTER.
During the day sighted various friendly aircraft on patrol and bombing missions.

27 September
Enroute WOENDI.
0230 S.J. contact on BIAK Island bearing 2450T, range 50 miles.
0745 Entered WOENDI Lagoon.
0825 Moored alongside U.S.S. SALAMONIE.
1430 Completed fueling.

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1723
Subject: Moored alongside U.S.S. ORION (AS18). Received a delightful reception from Commander Submarine Squadron 16, Commander Submarine Division 162, and all hands of U.S.S. ORION. This vessel has never been so royally received or treated. Accomplished all of our work requested and suggested and in addition accomplished additional jobs. All in all they made our visit most pleasant at a very advanced base.

28 September to 30 September

Moored alongside tender. Following items of work accomplished:
(1) Repaired J-K-QC sound head.
(2) Repaired S.D. and S.J. radar.
(3) Replaced sensitive element of master gyro.
(4) Repaired port propeller.

1 October

Conducted training operations, and tested port propeller which had been bent by submarine mooring alongside. Propeller satisfactory submerged to 80 r.p.m. Above that speed very noisy. No excessive vibration at full power on the surface.

2 October

Master gyro discovered to have a variable error of from 7 to 10 degrees. Tender worked on same all day to no avail and finally renewed sensitive element. Did not have time to check this before dark so DACE very reluctant to join the "Reluctant Dragon 'Club'" and sail.

-13-

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0530
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.

2 October (Continued)
ing was postponed to 0530 the third.

3 October
0530
Undeway for patrol in accordance with
Commander Task Force 71 dispatch orders 139-44.

0902
Made trim dive.

0916
Surfaced.

Numerous friendly plane contacts during
next three days which will not be listed.

0955
Sighted convoy of friendly ships on oppo-
site course.

4 October
Enroute area.

0334
Radar contact on NARWAL--exchanged recog-
nition signals with S.J.

0713
Sighted U.S. submarine through high peri-
scope. Assumed to be STRINGRAY.

1840
S.J. contact on NAUTILUS. Passed time of
day by S.J.

2250
Plane contact on S.D. and S.J. closing.
Pulled flare and was answered with Very Stars.
Identified as Black Cat making an excellent
run on us as his bearing had been steady from
a range of 9 miles. (Alircraft contact #28)

-14-

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5 October

Enroute area.

0307 Another Black Cat making run. Identified ourselves as before. (Aircraft contact #29)

0343 S.J. contact on NOROAI Island bearing 2480T, range 45 miles.

Numerous friendly S.D. contacts throughout day--not using I.F.F.

2000 Put on third engine in order to transit SIBUTU tomorrow night and thus gain an additional day in area.

6 October

Enroute area on three engines.

0620 Trim dive.

0635 Surfaced.

Took resistance readings on Main Generators--#2 shows only 100,000 ohms on the armature. Cloaned it entirely and still the same reading. Will use it in case of emergency only.

1530 Set clocks back one hour to Zono -8. All times now "HOW".

1600 Sighted plane, distance 12 miles. Did not dive. (Aircraft contact #30)

2215 Commenced transit of SIBUTU.

2234 Completed transit.

-15-

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7 October
Enroute area.
0526 Dawn dive.
0635 Surfaced.
0640 S.D. contact; 12 miles. Did not dive.
(Aircraft contact #31)
0803 S.D. out of commission. Sky completely overcast. Bad for spotting planes, so at
0841 Submerged until it clears or S.D. repaired.
1539 Surfaced. S.D. repaired.

8 October
Enroute area.
0517 Decided to conduct submerged patrol off southern tip of PANAY during morning in order to kill time to arrive at EAST APO pass at night.
1341 Surfaced.
2009 Commenced transit of EAST APO pass.
2300 Completed passage.

9 October
Enroute area.
0521 Dawn dive.
0710 Surfaced.

-16-

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9 October (Continued)
0712    Sighted unidentified plane, range 8 mils.
    Submerged. (Aircraft contact #32)

0814    Surfaced.

1221    S.D. contact 13 mils. Did not dive.
    (Aircraft contact #33)

2300    Received CAVALLA and BECUNA's contact report.
    From first message it appears that convoy is
    headed down PALAWAN Passage, but BECUNA's position indicates passage through Dangerous Grounds.
    Decided to send message to DARTER requesting
    rendezvous at northern edge of area in order
    to work this together and cover more area. In
    this way will keep ahead of convoy and take
    advantage of additional reports.

10 October
Enroute area.
0500    Rendezvoused with DARTER. Received orders
    for submerged patrol of eastern half of PALAWAN
    Passage.
0613    Submerged for patrol.
1111    Sighted BETTY bearing 110°T, range 10 mils.
    (Aircraft contact #34)
1830    Surfaced. Commenced patrol of 100 fathom
    curve.

11 October
Surface patrol.

-17-

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21 October (Continued)

0210 Rendezvoused with DARTER. Received word that she would patrol BALABAC Strait--we patrol off shoal as yesterday.

0535 Dawn dive.

0728 Surfaced.

0815 S.D. contact 9 miles. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #35)

0915 Surfaced.

0925 S.J. contact 10 miles. Two BETTY's sighted on southerly course. One fighter on northerly course. Did not dive. (Aircraft contact #36)

0958 S.D. contact 21 miles. Six bombers flying in formation, northerly course. (Aircraft contact #37)

1215 S.D. contact at 17 miles. Not sighted--did not dive. (Aircraft contact #38)

1232 S.D. contact at 13 miles, closing. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #39) Held fire control drill.

1420 Surfaced.

1424 S.D. contact 8 miles. Submerged as he closed to 6 miles. (Aircraft contact #40)

1546 Surfaced.

2230 Recivcd Commander Task Force 71 serial #45.

-18-

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12 October
Patrolling PALAWAN Passage.
0130 Rendezvoused with DARTER. Received instructions to patrol western entrance of BALABAC Strait.
1835 Surfaeced.
2200 Rendezvoused with DARTER. Received orders to patrol BALABAC again plus dope on DARTER's convoy.
13 October
Patrolling western approach of BALABAC Strait.
0545 Submerged at the 100 fathom curve southwest of BALABAC Island.
0802 Heard. echo ranging bearing 0850T.
0809 Sighted smoke bearing 0900T. Commenced approach using standard speed--looks every 15 minutes.
0937 Sighted masts.
0958 Sighted seven ship convoy with two escorting destroyers. Range 18,000 yards, angle on bow 90 starboard. Convoy is by. Will have to chase to-night. They came due south from BALABAC Island sticking to the shallow water along the island and hugging the coast the whole way. I have closed to the 50 fathom curve, but have been unable to get any closer than 16,000 yards. Do not think it wise to go any deeper into this Strait.

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13 October (Continued)
1019 Commenced clearing BALABAC Strait.

Convoy is the one attacked by DARTER yesterday. It consists of three large A.O.'s and four large A.K.'s, one of which might be an A.P. They were escorted by two destroyers, one leading and the other patrolling on starboard quarter of the formation. Ships were formed in two loose columns of three ships each led by the A.K.'s with the A.O.'s at the rear. The third A.O. which looked larger and more modern than the others was in the middle of the formation flanked by the A.P. and an A.K. This middle group of three overlapping ships makes a beautiful target.

1100 Sent contact report on 2880. Repeated at 1200, 1600, and 1700.

1527 Surfaced to clear Strait and start end around.

1530 S.D. contact at 6 miles. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #41). Surfaced at 1555.

1830 Rendezvoused with DARTER. Gave them all available dope and decided that we would chase convoy south inside of reefs. DACE to attack from ahead, DARTER from quarter. Estimated we would be in position at midnight. Will make a light attacks and return to area for tomorrow's patrol.

2240 Radar contact on convoy bearing 1810T, range 25,000 yards. Commenced tracking and end around. Sent contact report on 2880.

— page 22 —
14 October

Tracking convoy to gain attack position.

0010 Slowed to listen for echo ranging and discovered three sets of echo rangers.

0015 Battle stations. Have determined convoy's base course to be 2200T; he is using constant helm zig-zag plan superimposed on a regular plan whose legs are 25° each side of base course. Speed 7.5 knots shocks nicely. The night is dark with various rain squalls. However the horizon is good between the rain squalls. Saw the DARTER at 9,000 yards in one of these light spots. Land background makes it hard to see anything but dark shapes in the target group. Will go in for bow shot at the middle target group which consists of the following: one large A.P. or A.K., one large A.O. plus another A.K. They are all overlapping and make a beautiful target. All pips on radar screen line up and vary in range only by 500 yards each. Will turn right and fire stern tubes at leading group on way out. Will fire at fairly long range as the dope is checking perfectly and I went to evade on the surface in order to make another attack before dawn.

0018 Started closing slowly for attack.

ATTACK 1A:

0102-15 Commenced firing six tube salvo at center ship in starboard flank--large A.P. or A.K.; torpedo run 4,000 yards, 65° starboard track, small gyro angles, 8 second firing interval,

-21-

— page 23 —
14 October (Continued)

depth set 6 feet, 10 divergent spread. Target group is still overlapping with the A.O. 500 yards abreast of the target, and the other A.K. 500 yards abreast of the target.

0102-35 Received report from bridge that number three torpedo was making a circular run to the right. Gave loft full rudder and all ahead flank to clear torpedo, followed by right full rudder to bring stern tubes to bear on leading group of ships.

0102-57 Completed firing bow tubes; shifted to leading group which consists of two large overlapping A.K.'s.

0104-55 Heard and saw torpedo #1 hit near target. Large cloud of steam and smoke persisted for several minutes.

0105-30 Heard and saw #2 hit middle target of group. Escorts commenced firing--no splashes noted.

ATTACK 1B:

0105-55 Commenced firing stern tubes at leading target. Torpedo run 5,000 yards, 90° starboard track, small gyro angles, 10 second firing interval, 6 foot depth, 10 divergent spread. The two A.K.'s are still overlapping making a perfect target.

0107-20 Heard explosion in target group.

0111-28 Torpedo explosion. Timed to be #7 in near target--large A.K.

0111-47 Torpedo explosion. Timed to be #8 in the same. These explosions felt by DACE; not observed probably due to heavy Winton smoke screen. They were felt, heard, and seen by DARTER.

-22-

— page 24 —
14 October (Continued)

0119 Very heavy explosion in target group. Sounds like a boiler explosion.

Continued opening at flank speed with escort closing. Do not believe he saw us, but just chased out in the direction he thought the attack was coming from. Pulled well clear in order to make reload and give DARTER an opportunity to attack.

Of the seven ships and three escorts the following was observed after the attack. One target group was tracked south into KIMANIS bay. DARTER tracked this outfit, and observed it to consist of five large ships, and one escort. One cripple remained stopped at position of attack guarded by two escorts. This ship appeared to be a tanker as observed by DACE and DARTER. One ship noticeably absent. The final box score appears to be: one large A.K. (E.C.) 7,500 tons sunk; one large A.P. or A.K. (E.C.) 7,500 tons damaged; and one large A.O. (E.C.) 10,000 tons severely damaged and probably sinking. The (E.C.) classification is given from daylight observations made by both DARTER and DACE. The A.O. is believed to have been in a sinking condition because she was stopped indicating a hit in the engineering spaces, and was closely guarded by two destroyers--one close in taking off or trying to tow, and the other patrolling at a range of 4 to 5 thousand yards. The remaining five ships had proceeded with only one escort indicating that the cripple was in great need of help and protection.

The three misses in the bow tubes are hard to explain, unless they were caused by the swinging of the ship while avoiding the erratic torpedo run from #3 tube. This erratic run was

— page 25 —
14 October (Continued)

apparently due to faulty depth control as the torpedo was first sighted leaping completely out of the water. It then took a zig left a-cross the bow, and then circled right porpoising, and snorting like an angry bull. After about a 120° turn to the right it settled down on a steady course and went over the hill much to everyone's relief.

Reload completed. Decided to take 15 minutes off for trim dive having heard SEHORSES story about being too light to submerge after a surface reload. Discovered we were 10,000 lbs. light which was quickly remedied, and surfaced to proceed with attack.

DARTER apparently following main body south so I will go after the cripple.

Made a try from the west but was driven off by the patrolling escort. He apparently picked us up by sound, only making two-thirds, at about 9,000 yards. I don't think he actually saw us as he didn't follow us out when we headed away and did not shoot. However he came for us and would not let us close target. During this approach discovered DARTER trying to close from southwest.

Tried to make approach from the north, and had no better luck, so at

Started clearing area in order to get back to my petrol station in PALMIAH Passage. Have boon away from there for some time now and do not consider it wise to leave it unguarded for another day in view of orders to

-24-

— page 26 —
14 October (Continued)

report expected major units of the Jap fleet.
Will have to leave the rest of this convoy to
HAMMERHEAD and the boys down south. Did not
send another contact report as they were on
schedule.

0544 Submerged southwest of MANTANNI Island
proceeding to station.

1015 Surfaced for fix for passage through
shoals into PALAWAN Passage.

1037 Submerged.

1121 Hit uncharted shoal; depth 60 feet; wiped
off starboard sound head, but apparently no
other damage. During next ten minutes was a-
ground and off again two more times.

1138 Surfaced to clear shoals.

1144 S.J. plane contact 10,000 yards. Tried to
dig fox hole to hide in but was brought up a-
brutply at 57 feet. (

— page 27 —
15 October
Patrolling PALAWAN Passage.
0125
Iade rendezvous with DARTIER. Was informed that they observed all four of our hits, and that one target of convoy was missing. Received orders to patrol BALABAC Passage for next three days.
0630
Submerged at 100 fathom curve southwest of BALABAC Island.
1835
Surfaced.
16 October
Enroute to position southwest of BALABAC Strait.
0537
Submerged in assigned position.
1845
Surfaced. Headed back to BALABAC.
17 October
Patrolling BALABAC Strait.
0534
Submerged on 100 fathom curve southwest of BALABAC Island.
1630
Surfaced proceeding to rendezvous with DARTIER.
2230
Rendezvoused with DARTIER. Instructed to patrol PALAWAN passage. DARTIER to patrol BALABAC.

— page 28 —
18 October
Patrolling PALAWAN Passage.
0534 Submerged for patrol.
1824 Surfaced.
19 October
Patrolling PALAWAN Passage.
0233 Received message assigning evening rendezvous to form combined search for BLUEGILL's convoy.
0954 Sighted submarine bearing 2070T. Commenced approach until recognized as friendly; fired identification smoke float and at
1005 Surfaced 3,000 yards from DARTER.
1010 S.J. and sight contacts on two ships bearing 0510T, range 18,000 yards. Submerged; went to battle stations and commenced approach.

ATTACK #2:
1020 Targets in sight through periscope appear to be two P.C.'s or small destroyers. They are in line abreast--right hand one has a 100 port angle on the bow; selected that for target and started closing track.
1025 Original target has zigged left giving me an angle of 700 starboard. Shifted to other target which has a 200 starboard angle on the bow--range 11,000 yards, speed high. Kept looking for convoy but have seen nothing else.

-27-

— page 29 —
19 October (Continued)

Action of these two indicate they are on an A.S. search. Swinging right closing track at standard speed.

1033 Target has zigged right giving me a large port angle, so again sniffed to right hand target which has a 200 port angle on bow. I seem to be on base course so decided to head in: tracking one target to get speed and take which ever target gave me a good set up at firing point. Both targets are echo ranging, and seem to be covering the area pretty thoroughly. Sea is moderate with about three foot waves, weather overcast, periscope fogging badly.

1037-30 Target herd to speed up on sound. Took a look and observed heavy black smoke on steerboard target, angle on bow zero, range 4,200 yards. Believe we have been picked up. Gave right full rudder to get off track for stern tube shot. Have speed check of 16 knots, but will have to increase that now.

1039-30 Next look shows a 150 port angle on the bow. Set up looks good. Am about 700 yards off track so slowed to one-third speed still swinging right for 900 port track. Noticed three letter signal flying but could not decipher it. Later learned this was just after DANGER firing so was probably a signal about torpedo wakes.

1040-20 Next look shows that he has zigged further right, angle on the bow now 70 port, range 2,800 yards. Torpedo run is going to be long, but will take a chance using a 200% spread. Speed checks at 18 knots. At this time identi-

— page 30 —
19 October (Continued)

fied the destroyer as FUBUKI class. This is the first good look I have had of them due to a combination of periscope fogging, and small angle on the bow at the closer range.

1045-10 Commenced firing a salvo of four torpedoes from the stern tubes; 124 port track, 3,000 yard torpedo run, 200% spread, six foot depth, small gyro angles. Firing on 10 tube was delayed due to a fuse failure in ready light circuit.

Is #10 tube fired observed a 40° zig away. There goes the ball game.

1046-45 Heard a depth charge, followed by numerous small explosions sounding like shot gun shells. Destroyers observed to be searching a point about 5,000 yards to south of us.

1052 Two more depth charges. Destroyers still searching area well distant but working up in this direction.

1057-30 Destroyers are still closing our position, in slow deliberate approach, angle on bow of one has been zero for some time now. Other one is pinging on his beam and appears to be coaching this one on; so at

1058-30 With range of 2,200 yards angle on bow zero, decided that discretion was the better part of valor and started deep rigging for depth charge and evaded to the north and west. They pulled all of the tricks of pinging and listening, but apparently could not get a definite fix on us.

-29-

— page 31 —
19 October (Continued)
1353 Have not heard them for over an hour so started up for a look. Excessive water in motor room bilges has caused salt water to enter port reduction gear lub oil sump. Want to get that cleareâ up before we surface.

1428 At periscope depth. Continued submerged petrol on starboard shaft flushing out port sump tank.

1500 Tried to raise D.R.TER on 2880 to see if she has any dope. No luck.

1700 Again unsuccessful in trying to raise D.R.TER.

1800 Have flushed out port reduction gear sump tank twice now. Oil seems clear so put shaft back in commission.

1821 Surfaced. Proceeding to rendezvous with D.R.TER.

2015 Rendezvoused with D.R.TER. Received orders for combined search via line throwing gun. We are to patrol eastern half. Submerged at northern edge of area during day. Sweeping north at night. Will patrol this area for last two days on station.

20 October
Patrolling eastern part of P.I.W.N Passage.

0435 Received D.R.TER's contact report on two destroyers. We are north of her position so will be able to intercept if they come this way.

-30-

— page 32 —
20 October (Continued)
0444 Have DARTER's radar interference but no sign of their targets.
0525 Received targets must have gone south so submerged on station.
1130 Master gyro shows variable error. Put it out of commission and commenced repairs.
1150 Surfaced for sun line.
1158 Submerged.
1825 Surfaced.
2200 Master gyro back in commission.
2341 S.J. interference--probably DARTER.
21 October
Patrolling PALAWAN Passage.
0056 Received DARTER's message saying she was returning to BALABAC.
0526 Submerged on assigned static.
1816 Surfaced.
22 October
Patrolling PALAWAN Passage.
0040 Received DARTER's report of three ships headed northeast. Set course to intercept at four engine speed.
0115 Received amplifying report giving course 0200T, speed 20 knots. Set course to intercept at their 0500 position. This is the closest point I can intercept. I will be

-31-

— page 33 —
22 October (Continued)

on station at 0430 which will be just about right. I will track from ahead for a dawn submerged attack. Indications are they are battleships which means they probably have radar.

Continued to receive excellent hourly position reports from DARTAR. This is an excellent example of combined operations. DARTAR is furnishing all the dope so that all that is necessary is for us to be in front of them. They have not only furnished us with hourly positions, but have given us the zig-zag plan and speed: 22 knots.

0430
Kartrolling normal to their track at their 0500 position.

0515
Received report that target had changed base course to 3350T. Set course to try to intercept. A won't much chance to get in unless they change course to north or east.

0716
Received report that DARTAR had lost contact.

1015
Have covered all possible interception courses. Discontinued search; set course for home; sent serial three giving negative results of search.

1050
Received Commander Task Force 71's serial 12 g.ving air contact on convoy headed through area.

1639
Sent serial four requesting extension of patrol to work convoy.

1708
Submerged to flush out fuel ballast tank.

— page 34 —
22 October (Continued)
1618 Surf. cod.
2350 Rendezvoused with DARTER.
23 October
Petrolling PALAWAN Passage talking to DARTER.
0025 R.der contact 30,000 yards bearing 1370T. Secured conference and commenced tracking.
0030 S.J. out of commission. Fell in c.stern of DARTER until we got it repaired.
0122 S.J. back in commission--continued tracking gaining position ahead.
0200 Plot shows a steady course of 0380T, speed 15 knots. Formation consists of twelve ships formed in two columns of four heavy ships each with destroyers flanking. Distance between columns 5,000 yards. Much radar present on detector.
0400 D.CE and DARTER both ahead of formation. DARTER says she will take western column and instructed DACE to take station to northeast ahead of eastern column for dawn attack. This will assure one of us getting in no matter which way they zig. If they hold course we will both get in. I have not sent any contact reports because the excellent ones furnished by Task Group Commander leaves nothing for me to add.
0510 DARTER submerged.
0517 Submerged 18,000 yards ahead of the st'bd. column 12,000 yards northeast of DARTER. Could made out dim shapes from the bridge, but could not identify anything.

-33-

— page 35 —
23 October (Continued)

0530 Can make out dim shape of leading target. Angle on the low looks small. Started heading toward.

0532 Heard five torpedo explosions. DARTER must be getting in.

0534 Four more torpedo hits. DARTER is really having a field day. Can see great pall of smoke completely enveloping spot where ship was at last look. Do not know whether he has sunk but it looks good. Ship to left is also smoking badly. Looks like a great day for the DARTER. Can see two destroyers making smoke headed for scene. There is much signalling, shooting of very stars, etc. It is a great show. The big ships seem to be milling around; I hope they don't scatter too far for me to get in. Light is still pretty bad but I have counted eight large ships, battleships or cruisers plus two destroyers. Two of these large ships have been hit so far.

0538- Four depth charges; distant.

0544

ATTACK #3

0542 The situation is beginning to clear up. I have now picked a target--it looks like a battleship. Angle on bow 10 port, range 7,000 yards. Commenced swinging left for 900 port track.

0545 Have identified target as a heavy cruiser of the ATAGO or NACHI (E.C.) class. There are two of these, but can now see a larger ship astern--looks like a battleship. Famous statement: "Will let them go by--they are only heavy cruisers." Shifted targets. He is taking

— page 36 —
23 October (Continued)

evasive action from the DARTER's position; if he doesn't settle down and present a good set-up there are two more coming up the line. This ...s really the submariner's dream--sitting right in front of a task force. If I only had some torpedoes aft! After the DARTER's attack the formation has broken-up so that I can't estimate too well how the ships were originally formed, but now with the better light conditions I have seen the following: two ATAGO or NAOHI cruisers leading a battleship or CA--my target; there are two other BB's believed to be ISE class in column about 1,500 yards to the westward and behind my target presenting a zero angle on the bow; there are several destroyers milling around DARTER's position about 6 miles away; there is one large unidentified ship well to eastward--this looks like either a carrier or perhaps another battleship; however, I can't make him out very well. Total eight heavy ship, four DD's.

0552 The two cruisers passed ahead at about 1,500 yards. They were overlapping; appeared to be running screen for my target pre-senting a beautiful target--a submarine should have 24 torpedo tubes. Had a beautiful view of them and identified them positively as ATAGO or NAOHI class. My target can be seen better now, and appears to be a KONGO class battleship (E.U.). He looks larger than the two cruisers that have just passed ahead--he has two stacks, and superstructure appears much heavier. Have not checked the identification as well as I should as I have been busy getting complete composition of force which I consider essential for contact report. Sound also reports target screws as heavier and slower than those of cruisers.

-35-

— page 37 —
0554-41 Commenced firing a salvo of six bow tubes; torpedo run 1,800 yards, 115 track, smell gyro longitudinal spread from forward aft: four to hit, one a quarter length ahead, another a quarter length astern. Have increased his speed to 18 knots because of the excessive bow wave he is making.

0555-05 Fired #3.

0555-13 Fired #4.

0555-23 Fired #5.

0555-31 Fired #6.

Took quick look around and saw next battle-ship still had a zero angle on the bow, range close so started deep turning into his wake.

0556-04 First hit.

0556-16 Second hit.

0556-25 Third hit.

0556-43 Fourth hit.

JP had been tracking the cruiser and target screws for some time. Immediately after the fourth hit JP heard the target's screws stop.

0601 Heard two tremendous explosions both on sound end through the hull. These explosions were apparently magazines as I have never heard anything like it. The soundmen reported that it sounded as if the bottom of the ocean was blowing up. They were obviously shallow as there was neither any shaking of the boat.

-36-

— page 38 —
23 October (Continued)

nor water swishing through the superstructure. Nothing could cause this much noise except magazines exploding.

0603
Head tremendous breaking up noises. This was the most gruesome sound I have ever heard. I was at first convinced that it was being furnished by the DACE, and called for a check of all compartments and was much relieved to receive reports that everything was all right. Noise was coming from the northeast--the direction of the target, and it sounded as if she was coming down on top of us. I have never heard anything like it. Comment from Diving Officer: "We better get the hell out of here! After about five minutes of these tremendous breaking up noises, continued to have smaller ones and much crackling noises for next twenty minutes. These noises could be heard on sound and throughout the boat. I am convinced that this ship sank; nothing else can explain the noises. If additional proof is necessary the following is submitted: screwswere heard to stop therefore it is reasonable to presume she could not have continued with the remainder of the force. If she proceeded north at reduced speed she would have been given adequate protection; of the four destroyers conducting the depth charge attack--three were seen by DARTER around the crippled cruiser at 0830. It is logical to assume that each cripple would have had two destroyers if there were two triples. Finally, it is logical to assume that if one cripple went south both would go south and if this had happened DARTER would have seen our victim.

-37-

— page 39 —
0605
First depth charge--not close but they got progressively better and we received a severe working over for the next half hour. Total depth charges recorded was 36 of which it is estimated 32 were sent to us; would like a more equal distribution next time. Attack was highlighted by one division depth charge practice which was definite first team work. Later four perfect individual runs were made in which no charges were dropped; could hear their screws through the hull for about two minutes as they came in; tracked them directly overhead from bow aft and hear them go out estern. This suspense was worse than the depth charging. Evaded to south at deep submergence. Had screw noises, close pinging, and sono bombs until after nine o'clock.

1030 Still have echo ranging, but it is distant, so started up.

1100 At periscope depth--nothing in sight. Commenced reload, adjusted trim, served breakfast.

1121 Sighted float type plane (ZEKE). (Aircraft contact #43). He continued to patrol over damaged CA the rest of the afternoon.

1200 Reload, completed, back to normal except the port reduction gear which has salted up again. started working on it.

1214 Sighted BETTY-type plane. (Aircraft contact #44)

1255 Changed course to head for distant echo ranging.

1425 Saw tops of masts, bearing 3590T--headed for same.

-38-

— page 40 —
23 October (Continued)

1510 Can now make out target as a damaged ATAGO cruiser guards by two destroyers patrolling well out. He also has air cover. Decided that possibilities of getting in for a daylight attack are very strong. Jruiser is definitely stopped at scene of DARTER attack, and doesn't look like there is much possibility of his getting underway. Will clean salt water out of sump this afternoon, get in a partial charge tonight, and make a submerged night attack.

1722 Fort shaft back in commission.

1845 Surfaced. Sent serial five to Commander Task Force 71 giving composition of enemy task force, and results of attack. Gave DARTER the dope on cripple, and was directed to rendezvous with her.

2053 Made radar contact with enemy bearing 3510T, range 24,000 yards. Commenced tracking and sent information to DARTER. Target is now underway on southwesterly course, speed varying from four to six knots. DARTER cancelled rendezvous and directed DACS to track from port bow.

2256 DARTER said she would try surface attack from quarter. If she was forced down or chased off by destroyers we were to attack from bow.

2330 Received message that DARTER was making end around to west, was instructed to attack when ready. Commenced end around for better background for submerged attack. Night is dark but have good horizon to east and will be able to make out target against it.

-39-

— page 41 —
0007
Received message from DARTER saying she was
aground. Decided to delay attack until I can
get more information. Do not want to alert
enemy or be held down while DARTER is aground.
Target is having difficulty making way to south-
west at speed from four to six knots. If
DARTER can get off will still have sufficient
time for attack; if DARTER can not get off be-
lieve my job is to rescue crew and destroy
DARTER first, and then attack. Started clos-
ing DARTER's position.

: 0124
Ran through large oil slick from cruiser.

: 0140
Contacted DARTER aground on BOEBAY Shoal.

: 0153
Flooded down and approached DARTER--got line
over from bow to DARTER's stern and commenced
rescue operations. Salvage impossible as tide
has gone out leaving DARTER screws out of water.
Reef is fan-shape here, and I have breakers all
along starboard side about 50 yds. away. Looks
like good water to port.

: 0439
Transferring DARTER personnel via two
rubber boots--a slow task. Used up half the
battery maneuvering to keep off reef. Current
setting me on.

: 0439
Last boat load containing Commanding Officer
and Executive Officer of DARTER came aboard.
Cast off and backed clear. Received word that
demolition charges and warhead were set for
0455 so decided to wait until then before tor-
pedoing.

-40-

— page 42 —
24 October (Continued)

0500 Have heard slight explosion, but can see no damage. Torpedo war head did not go off; demolition charge might have.

0510 Fired two torpedoes at DARTER; 140 port track. 35th exploded on reef. Depth set four feet and 2x2.

0530 Fired two more on a 1800 track--first missed slightly to starboard and exploded on far reef--its depth setting zero. Second one set at four feet looked like a perfect hit just under quarter but caused no apparent damage. It must have hit reef just under DARTER.

0545 Commenced firing with deck gun. Expended 30 rounds of ammunition for 21 hits. These appeared to do little damage except to start a fuel oil fire in a forward fuel group which caused much black smoke.

0558 Caught by plane in the unenviable position of lying to with 25 men topside. Submerged with ammunition on deck and gun trained out. Heard two explosions which sounded like small bombs quite distant. Flane apparently picked DARTER for target. (Aircraft contact #45)

0710 BITTY is still patrolling over DARTER.

0805 Surfaced to send message to Commander Task Force 71 requesting assistance in destroying DARTER. Tried every frequency, but could raise no one. Finally got some surface ship to accept it, but continued trying to get a receipt on ship to shore or 2880 KCS, until

0950 S.D. contact nine miles. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #46)

-41-

— page 43 —
24 October (Continued)
1018 Heard echo ranging.
1036 Sighted destroyer approaching DARTER. Destroyer approached rear and lay to with a BERTY firing a very effective AS screen flying fifty feet off water. Pulled clear.
1830 Surfaced and started closing DARTER. Will make sweep around and come in from northwest for better light conditions.
2001 Radar contact on DARTER. Started slow approach to see if any activity is present. If destroyer is gone will send boarding party with DACE demolition outfit: covering them with automatic weapons.
2020 Received serial 18 saying ROCK would come to demolish DATER.
2112 When 2,000 yards from DATER picked up definite echo ranging on sound. This was so close that it was heard by both the Commanding Officer and the Commanding Officer of DATER who were on the bridge at the time. Cleared area at high speed. Believe this was a submerged submarine making an approach on DACE. Eight distinct pings were heard by the sound operator. Bright moonlight night; no targets were visible and nothing on radar. Decided it unwise to make surface approach and sent results to Commander Task Force 71. Requested permission to depart area.

25 October
Awaiting orders.
0600 Received order to proceed to PREEMINENTE.

— page 44 —
25 October (Continued)
0742 S.D. contact 8 miles. Submerged to avoid detection. (Aircraft contact #47)
1830 Surfaced.
1225 S.D. contact 23 miles. (Aircraft contact #48)
1230 S.J. and S.D. contact 10 miles. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #49)
1307 Surfaced.
26 October
Enroute FRENCHMANITE.
0330 Departed area.
1104 Submerged.
1112 Surfaced.
27 October
Enroute FRENCHMANITE.
1005 Sighted sailboat bearing 2430T, range 10 miles.
28 October
1418 S.J. and S.D. radar contact 15 miles. Disappeared at 21 miles. (Aircraft contact #50)
1700 Submerged to delay entrance to KARIMATA Strait until nightfall.

-43-

— page 45 —
28 October 1944 (Continued)
1854 Surfacd.
2040 Commenced transit of KIRIKITA. Strait.
29 October
0500 Cleared KIRIKITA. Strait undetected.
0829 Master gyro out of commission; shifted to auxiliary.
0912 S.D. contact 26 miles. (Aircraft contact #51).
1238 Sighted sailboat bearing 1450T, range 10 miles. [VOIDED]
1307 Sighted two more sailboats bearing 1380T, range 10 miles. [VOIDED]
2100 Master gyro back in commission.
30 October
0025 Sighted sailboat bearing 1800T, range eight miles. [VOIDED]
0304 Sighted sailboat. [VOIDED]
0505 S.J. contact bearing 1900T, range 5,000 yards. Small boat.
0537 Submerged.
0615 Surfaced.
Numerous sailboats sighted and avoided during day.

-44-

— page 46 —
30 October (Continued)
1515 Submerged.
1832 Surfaced.

31 October
Sighted numerous fishing boats north of LOMBOK. Avoided.
0420 S.J. contact bearing 2090T, range 9,000 yards. Identified as a patrol boat or possible submarine patrolling north of strait.
0501 Submerged for transit of LOMBOK Strait.
1316 Cleared Strait.
1527 Surfaced to air out boat. With 165 people on board used several bottles of oxygen and much CO2 absorbent. Conditions were not bad.
1540 Submerged.
1845 Surfaced.
2055 Exchanged recognition signals with REDFIN and LERERO and gave them dope on LOMBOK.

1 November
Enroute FREEMONTLE.

2 November
0600 Exchanged messages with HUDO.
0706 Submerged.
0732 Surfaced.

-45-

— page 48 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.

(C) WEATHER

Weather conditions as described in Sailing Directions were encountered. Frequent squalls, low hanging clouds, and hazy atmospheric predominated.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

Variable currents were coprironced in PILLIWINK Passage, howevor, a set from north to northeast with an avorage drift of .6 knots predominated in the vicinity of 90N.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

(1) No navigational aids were observod.
(2) A shoal, extent unknown, exists in Lat.06-55N Long.116-02E. DACE hit bottom at 57 foot horc. Position dctorminod by radar fix on MONTANA, Island on hour prior to grounding.
(3) Following observations were made in Dangerous Ground:

(a) S.BINA Shoal - Sightod broakers and rock at 10.5 milos.
(b) BOXLL Rof - Broakers ct 6 milos.
(c) SECOND THOM.S Shoal - Not sighted at 10 milos.
(d) LICL. NINE Rof - Not sightod at 10 milos.
(e) FIRST THOM.S Shorl - Broakers at 8 milos.
(f) MISCHLER Rof - Sightod at 12 milos. Very low with sovorl large rocks widoly scattorod. appear to bo ships at a distanco.

-47-

— page 55 —
5
Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number: FIVE

(Terminal) (H) TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) Torpedo Attack No. 1-A Patrol #5
Time: 0102H Date: 10/14/44 Lat.06-05N Long.115-55E
TARGET DATA - DATAGRAPH INFLUENCER
Description: Seven ship convoy escorted by three large destroyers and consisting of one large AF or AK, 7,500T; three large AK's, 7,500T; and three large AO's, 10,000T. This was the same convoy that had been contacted the previous morning, and attacked by DARTOR on 12 October.
Ship(s) Damage or: Probably sunk one large AO, (E.U.) Probably sunk: 10,000T, and damaged one large AF or AK, 7,500T. (E.U.)
Damage determined by: One observed torpedo hit on each target and the presence of at least one cripple after the convoy had fled the scene of the attack. AO could not stay with convoy and when last contacted was lying to within two escorts standing by.
Target draft: 20' Course: 21crt Speed: 7.5 Range 4,500 (at firing)
OWN SHIP DATA
Speed: 8 Course: 1100T Depth: Surface Angle -- (at firing)
FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Type attack: Night radar attack on the surface using the T.D.O. with radar ranges and bearings to obtain the firing set-up. -- divergent spread was fired and the constant bearing method used.

-54-

— page 57 —
1. U.S.S. D.C. (SS247), Report of War Patrol
   - 2. Torpedo attack No. 1-B F.trol #5
   - 3. TNT: 0106H D.tc: 10/14/44 L.t. 05-05N Long.115-55E
   - 4. Target D.T.: - 24-45 INFLICTED
   - 5. Description: Same convoy as described in attack #1-a.

Ship(s) Sunk: One large .K. (7,500t) (E.U.).

Ship(s) Damaged or
   - 1. Destroyed by:
     - Torpedo
     - Depth charges
     -

— page 59 —
1. U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
   Number FIVE.

2. TORPEDO ATTACK NO 2 PATROL NO. 5

TIME: 1043H
Date: 10/12/44
Lat.08-55M
Long.116-48E

TARGET D.T. - DESTROYED INFLICTED

Description: Two FUBUKI class Destroyers.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged or
Probably Sunk: None.

Damage Determined by: -

Target Draft: 9' Course: 2550 Spaced: 18 Range: 1800 yds.
(at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA:

Speed: 2.5 Course: 1460 Depth: 65' angle: 0 (at firing)

FIRST CONTROL OF TORPEDO D.T.

Type attack: Submerged day periscope attack using the
T.D.C. with periscope bearings and range
es to obtain the firing set-up. The
constant bearing method was used. A
divergent spread set in, and a salvo of
four torpedoes were fired from the
stern tubes at the leading destroyer.
Misses due to zig away by target.

-58-

— page 61 —
1. U.S.S. DAG (SS247), report of war Patrol Number FIVE.

2. U.S.S. DAG (SS247) Torpedo Attack No. 3 Patrol No. 5

TITLE: 0554H DATE: 10/23/44 LAT. 09-28N LONG. 117-20E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION: KONGO type battleship or CA escorted by two ATAGC or NAGCI cruisers.

SHIP(S) Sunk: One KONGO Class Battleship or CA (U.U.).

SHIP(S) Damaged or
TROUBLY Sunk: None

Damage Determined by: Four timed torpedo hits on target, accompanied by two tremendous explosions from airdition of target. Very loud breaking-up noises from direction of target started eight minutes after first hit and persisted for thirty minutes. These noises were also heard by DARTH.

Target draft: 27ft Course: 0490T Speed: 17 Range 1700 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 3 Course: 1400T Depth: 65° Angle: 0 (at firing)

FIRST CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged dawn periscope attack. using the T.D.C. with periscope ranges and bearings to obtain the firing set-up. A longitudinal spread was set in by point of aim method and a salvo of six torpedoes were fired from the bow tubes.

-60-

— page 63 —
0.5" (1/4") DAGGER (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.

(H) TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM

U.S.S. DAGE (SS247) Torpedo Attack No. 4 Patrol No. 5

TIME: 0500H Date: 10/24/44 LAT. 09-26N LONG. 116-55E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: U.S.S. DARTER (SS227) around on BOMBAY Shoal, South China Sea.

Ship(s) Sunk: None

Ship(s) Damaged or probably sunk: None

Damage determined by: -

Target Draft: 0' Course: 230° Speed: 0 Range 1,000 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA
2700
Speed: 0 Course: 230° Depth: Surface Angle: 0 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Day radar attack on the surface using the T.D.C. with radar ranges and radar and periscope bearings to obtain the firing set-up. All fish were fired to hit using the constant bearing method. All torpedoes exploded on the reef.

-62-

— page 64 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.

Subject:  Torpedo Attack Data - #4

Tubes Fired:  #1  #2  #3  #4
Track Angle:  140P  140P  180  180
Gyro Angle:  55  359  358  356
Depth Set:  A'  0  0  4'
Power:  HIGH  HIGH  HIGH  HIGH
Hit or Miss:  MISS  MISS  MISS  MISS
Erratic:  No  No  No  No
Merk Torpedo:  23  23  23  23
Serial No:  49503  49560  49646  49824
Mark Exploder:  6-5  6-5  6-5  6-5
Serial No.:  13281  10165  17072  14006
Actuation Set:  CONTACT  CONTACT  CONTACT  CONTACT
Actuation
Actual:  -  -  -  -
Merk Warhead  16  16  16  16
Serial No.:  9059  4713  4612  4420
Explosive:  TNT  TNT  TNT  TNT
Firing
Interval:  Torpedoes fired over period 15 min.
Type Spread:  -  -  -  -
Sea Condition:  -  -  -  -
Overhaul Activity:  S/M Repair Unit, Navy No. 134

REMARKS:  All torpedoes exploded against coral reef on which the DARTER was aground.

-63-

— page 65 —
U.S.S. D.CE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.

(H) GUN ATTACK REPORT FORM

U.S.S. D.CE (SS247) Gun Attack No. 1 Patrol No. 5

TIME: 0530 D.T.E: 10/24/44 LAT. 09-26N LONG. 116-55E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Damaged: U.S.S. D.R.TER (SS227) aground and abandoned on BOMBAY Shoal, PALAWAN Passage.

Damage Determined by: Twenty-one observed hits with 4" 50 cal. high capacity shells.

DETAILS OF ACTION

Type Gun: 4" 50 cal. deck gun.

Type Ammunition: High capacity - 26 rounds.
Common - 4 rounds.

Type Attack: Local control was used with radar ranges. The 4" 50 cal. shells appeared very ineffective against the still pressure hull. Action was broken off upon the approach of enemy aircraft.

-64-

— page 66 —
1. SUBJECT: U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

2. (I) MINE

Seven mines were sunk by 20mm fire in the vicinity of Lat. 03-37N, Long. 122-32E, of these one was a moored type mine fitted with the conventional horns. This mine exploded when hit with gunfire; the remaining six mines were of the drifting type. They were tear shaped, fitted with vanes or fins, and painted either a solid black or red. These mines were sunk, but not exploded by gunfire.

All the above were found in a tide rip and within a radius of ten miles of the above position.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

No new anti-submarine measures were encountered. All contacts were escorted by three or more destroyers. The escorts for the convoy encountered 13 October were echo ranging night and day. The escorts for the task force were not echo ranging prior to the attack.

The counter measures encountered after attacks number 1 and 2 were quite ineffective. The one after the attack on the task force was quite effective; however, the Japanese shortage of destroyers is indicated by the small number encountered with this important task force.

The usual evasive tactics of going deep and clearing area on varying courses keeping escorts astern were used.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

(A) RADIO AND SOUND:

(1) S.D. Radar.--A short from primary to secondary in filament section of oil filed main power transformer caused oil to boil, thus exploding the case and burning out the primary. Transformer rewound using one fourth inch of varnished CAMBRIC insulation; case was soldered and refilled with hydraulic oil. Transformer stood 20,000 volts across windings and was replaced with spare 200 hours later.

-65-

— page 68 —
1. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (Continued)
   (B) ENGINEERING (Continued)
   element was renewed by OICON but three weeks later this error again appeared. It is believed that the casualties were caused, not by the sensitive element, but by the damping or follow up systems. The only abnormal condition existing is the splashing of oil from the sump by the north rotor. In each case repairs were effected by securing the gyro, cleaning the mercury, and the damping system. This is a serious casualty as the gyro is not dependable and was the cause of much concern during the patrol. A thorough check of the entire system is requested.

(C) ORDNANCE:
   An air leak developed in a MK23 torpedo at the valve group connection of the high pressure air line from the preheater. Leak was repaired by silver soldering. Torpedo ran HSN.

(L) RADIO
   Reception was reliable at all times with the 9 megacycle band best for night use, and either the 12 or 16 megacycle band best during the day. No Japanese attempts at jamming were noticed.
   No difficulty was encountered in night transmission from the area, but it was impossible to get receipt for day transmission of DACE serial eight. It was sent blind and later retransmitted on Bakers. South of the barrier enemy jamming and false receipting was experienced. (See section U).
   The use of the area frequency for communication with the DARTER was excellent and presented no problems. No jamming was experienced. Communication using vertical antenna was unsatisfactory with both boats submerged; however, with one boat on the surface limited use could be made of it.

-67-

— page 70 —
(0) DENSITY LAYERS (Continued)

Below are tabulated layers observed:

| DATE | LAT. | LONG. | STRAGE | DEPTH | TEMP. |
|------|------|-------||-------|-------|
| 9-19 | 03-42N | 122-29T | 26     | 720   | 3     |
| 9-20 | 05-07N | 122-42E | 85     | Thermoline | 5 |
| 10-07 | 07-17T | 120-25E | 83     | 230   | 3     |
| 10-08 | 11-36N | 122-45E | 84     | 200   | 4     |
| 10-13 | 07-21N | 116-13E | 83     | 260   | 9     |
| 10-15 | 07-40N | 116-43E | 84     | 260   | 10    |
| 10-16 | 07-07N | 115-01E | 85     | 260   | 13    |
| 10-17 | 07-41N | 116-39E | 85     | 260   | 10    |
| 10-19 | 07-30N | 117-03E | 83     | 220   | 13    |
| 10-23 | 09-25N | 117-20E | 83     | 210   | 11    |

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, and HABITABILITY

Health of both officers and men was above average although near the end of the patrol several cases of patrol fatigue were noticed, especially among those men who have made five or more patrols. One case of cellulitis of the leg had to be transferred before departure from advanced base. Food was well prepared and served. Habitability was that expected of this type boat in tropical waters.

After the DARTER crew came on board living conditions became crowded but not to the extent imagined when 165 men are carried. Men were assigned to compa

— page 73 —
1. Ship or station: U.S.S. D.C. (SS 24.7)
2. Position, bearing, and altitude when enemy radio signals were observed:
3. Position of Transmitting Station: 150S; 1150E
4. Date & Time of Jamming: 2200H on 11/1/44 to 0100H on 11/2/44 and 2300H to 2400H on 11/2/44.
5. Frequencies jammed: 840 Kc
6. Describe signal jammed: Cwm signal CW
7. Use of circuit: Operational
8. Was enemy jamming signal stable: Yes
9. What was ratio of strength of own signal to enemy jamming signal: 1 to 4
10. What was power output of own transmitter at time of jamming: 200 watts
11. Location of enemy jammer: Shipborne Airborne Lendbased Unknown X
12. Type of jamming signal: was random keyed CW
13. Effectiveness of jamming: Very effective
14. Action taken to overcome jamming: was to slightly shift frequency and to send breaks during the jamming
15. Bandwidth covered by enemy jamming signals: was 10 kcs in receivers used.

-72-

— page 74 —
16. Did jamming transmitter appear to be monitored by a look-in receiver?  Yes
Additional trouble was encountered with false transmissions. False receptions for DCC serial 12 were obtained from enemy stations using the calls VIXO and Z4N. When trying to send DCC 13 three stations using VIXO and two stations using VLM were encountered. When asked to authenticate the enemy stations asked us to stop transmitting or said they had nothing more for us. Both messages were received by VIXO due to excellent work by their operators.

17. If frequency was shifted, how long before enemy jammed new frequency:  Frequency shifted but could not establish communication. Enemy did not jam. Had to resort to original frequency to clear message.

-73-

— page 75 —
1. Ship or Station: U.S.S. DACE (SS247)
2. Area covered on this mission: Philippine Area from 10/7/44 to 10/26/44
3. Was enemy radar:
   - Shipborne: X Airborne: Landbased: Unknown
   - Battleship or heavy cruiser
   - (a) Describe enemy installation: Unknown
4. Intercept equipment: SN-2
5. (a) Frequency: 150Mcs. Dial Readings: 150, 180 Mcs.
   (b) PRF 3000 cps. How Measured: Est. by tone
   (c) Pulse Width: Unknown how Measured:
   (d) Sketch False:
   (e) Was Lobe Switching Used: No.
   (f) Polarization of enemy signal: Not determined.
   (g) Sweep Rate: 4 rpms
6. (a) Was radar used for surface or air search, GL, SLC, GOI, or AI: Search (whether surface or air not determined).
7. Action or enemy radar including distances and bearings at which he searched, tracked, faded, etc.: Radar was first detected at 12 miles after radar contact (SU) has been established. Enemy made two sweeps then secured for one minute. At one time the tone disappeared and only a high noise level was heard for about thirty minutes. Sweeping disappeared indicating a possible casualty to enemy radar.

-74-

— page 76 —
1. No mine sweeping activities were noted.

2. Enemy merchant traffic in the area appears to hug the coast as much as possible passing inside BALBAC Passage, and the Cerneo Barrier Reef. A good intercept point is at 09-15'N, 1170-20'E where the traffic is forced outward into PALAWAN Passage by shoals. North of BALBAC the traffic apparently anchors overnight, but inside the barrier reef it apparently remains underway.

The three warship contacts used the deep water passages apparently relying on speed for protection. Two of the three contacts used PALAWAN Passage while the third went through dangerous Ground.

3. During the last refit an extensive range and bearing repeater system was installed from radar and T.E.T. to the T.D.C. and plot. This proved very successful and is strongly recommended for all boats. Detail description of system is not included here as it is essentially the same system as described by the JACK.

4. The highest praise is given to the main engines and to Submarine Division 182 Relief Crew who overhauled them. On three seperate and long end arounds it was necessary to run them at full power (100%) for extensive periods. They responded perfectly and never failed us.

5. The Commanding Officer wishes to take this opportunity to say that it has been a great pleasure to work with the Task Group Commander, Commander D.H. McCLINTOCK. The excellent judgement displayed in coordinating the search and attack doctrine of the two boats left nothing to be desired, and was largely responsible for the success of the task unit. All the movements of the two units were carried out with a minimum of communication; neither doubt nor confusion.

— page 78 —
1. The fifth war patrol of the DACE is divided into two parts. The first part, from 1 to 27 September, the DACE was on a patrol line under operational control of CTF-72. No contacts were made although aircraft contacts were plentiful. She returned to Mios "oendi and after six days in port she departed under operational control of CTF-71 joining the DARTER in a coordinated attack group under Commander D.H. McClintock, Commanding Officer of the DARTER, for patrol in the vicinity of Palawan Passage. Three torpedo attacks were made.

2. Attack No. 1-A On 13 October DACE sighted a convoy previously reported and attacked by DARTER. The convoy remained in mineable waters which prevented a day submerged attack. After dark an end around was made in conjunction with U.S.S. DARTER. Six steam torpedoes were fired in a night surface attack range 4,000 yards. This long range was imposed by the possibility of mine fields close in. Two hits were registered in two ships. One torpedo made an erratic run and the maneuvers of the DACE to avoid probably accounts for the four misses since she kept firing while swinging to clear the erratic torpedo.

Attack No. 1-B followed immediately thereafter. Four Mark 18 torpedoes were fired at two overlapping freighters at extreme range. Two hits were made in one freighter and were observed by DARTER. The DACE then pulled out, reloaded and came back in to polish off a cripple which had been left behind by

— page 79 —
5-18/A16-3 SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHTEEN Bn
Serial 0219 Care of Fleet Post Office,
SAN FRANCISCO, California.
CONFIDENTIAL
7 November 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number Five.

---

The convoy, Alert escorts frustrated her attempts to attain attack position. Further attempts could not be made because of the necessity of arriving on a new patrol line in obedience to orders.

Attack No. 2 was a coordinated attack on one of two Fubuki destroyers probably on an anti-submarine search. The DARTER got in an unsuccessful attack. Shortly thereafter the DACE fired four Mark 18 torpedoes in a day periscope attack from good position. A zig away just after firing the last torpedo caused all torpedoes to miss. The destroyers conducted a search but no depth charge attack.

Attack No. 3 on 23 October, shortly after midnight while in company with the DARTER, radar contact was made on what developed to be a large task force enroute up Falawan Passage. "With beautiful teamwork the DACE took position ahead of the starboard column of ships and the DARTER the port column. The submarines submerged in good position ahead, just before daylight. Within fifteen minutes the DACE heard the DARTER attack, five hits followed two minutes later by four more. Ten minutes later at 0600 the DACE identified her column as being two Atago class heavy cruisers with a third vessel at stern identified as a Kongo class battleship. Five other heavy vessels were in sight with a significantly light destroyer screen. In order to get the heavier ship astern the two Atagos were allowed to pass; then, from excellent position at a range of 1800 yards, six torpedoes were fired, spread by periscope. Four hits were obtained. The DACE went deep to avoid the escorts. Tremendous explosions and breaking up noises were heard for a half hour. A counterattack was made by the escorting destroyers. In the afternoon, upon return to periscope depth, one Atago cripple guarded by two destroyers was sighted. The DACE closed this target during daylight and after contacting DARTER upon surfacing that night commenced an end around on a southwesterly course on the cruiser which was making about five

— page 80 —
FC5-18/A16-3  SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHTEEN  Bn
Serial 0219  Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
CONFIDENTIAL
7 November 1944.

Subject:  U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol
Number Five.

knots. Just after midnight on 24 October the DACE received word that the DARTER had run aground on Bombay Shoal. The DACE broke off the approach on the cruiser and went to the rescue of the DARTER.

3. Displaying superb seamanship the Commanding Officer maneuvered the DACE within fifty yards of the reef on which DARTER was aground and by means of both vessel's rubber boats all DARTER personnel were removed to the DACE. The demolition charges in the DARTER failed to function so the DACE fired her four remaining torpedoes at the hulk. All torpedoes exploded on the reef without apparent damage to the DARTER. The deck gun was manned and twenty-one hits scored with little apparent damage. Fire was interrupted by the arrival of a plane just before dawn. During the day a Japanese destroyer arrived on the scene but evidently departed about sunset. After dark the DACE closed the DARTER to put aboard the DACE's demolition charge. When about one mile off loud pinging was heard, although in bright moonlight, nothing was seen, leading to the conclusion that it was from a submarine. It could not have emanated from the DARTER as all sound gear had been wrecked. The DACE pulled clear and departed for Fremantle. The trip to base was uneventful, Lombok Strait being transited submerged.

4. The DACE returned in very good material condition and will be refitted by the U.S.S. SURYAIE and One Eighty-One two roller crew.

5. Of special interest is the sighting and sinking of six drifting and one moored type mine in the middle of the Celebes Sea. Communications by the two submarines was remarkably good and accounts in large part for the success of the group. The Commanding Officers' remarks regarding traffic lanes and the enemy's use of Dangerous Ground are particularly valuable.

6. Even though the DACE had 165 men on board for the return trip the state of cleanliness and morale was excellent.

— page 81 —
7. The Squadron Commander heartily congratulates the DACC on this fine patrol. In addition to the heavy damage inflicted on the enemy the DACC's performance in saving an entire submarine crew from capture or destruction is an outstanding performance and merits the sincere appreciation of the entire submarine service.

ELIOT H. BRYANT

— page 82 —
12a/1e
30 November 1944.

From: The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: The Commander, SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. DACE Fifth War Patrol was conducted in CELEBES SEA; and in the SOUTH CHINA SEA as a member of a coordinated Search and Attack Group composed of DACE and DARTER.

2. Routine reconnaissance duty in the CELEBES SEA from 14 September to 24 September was productive of no torpedo targets. In position (03-37N 122-32E) DACE disposed of seven floating mines.

3. At 0958 on October 13th, while submerged, DACE sighted a convoy heading south from BALBAC ISLAND; too distant to attack. He cleared BALBAC STRAIT and surfaced with the convoy out of sight at 1550. As a result of decisions reached during a rendezvous held with DARTER at 1830, DACE was ordered to take station for attack on the starboard bow of the convoy which was estimated to be proceeding southward inside of N. FURIOUS SEALS. Radar contact was regained at 2240, and in these shallow and foul waters, he delivered a long range attack at 0102 from 4000 yards. Ten torpedoes were fired, resulting in four hits on two targets. DACE reloaded, made a trim dive, and returned to the vicinity of a heavily damaged cripple. DACE did not follow the convoy because he assumed, first, that DACE was in contact with the main body; and, secondly, that restricted waters in the vicinity of SOUTH HILL ROCK were not suitable for multiple submarine attacks. However, DARTER had not followed the convoy, but had also remained in the vicinity of the cripple. The presence of two patrolling escorts deterred further attack by either submarine.

4. At 0025 on the 23rd of October both DACE and DARTER contacted and tracked a large Task Force heading north through PALAWAN PASSAGE. A pre-dawn submerged attack was wisely chosen on the assumption that this was the most effective form of dual submarine attack upon a Task Force which was unlikely to radically alter base course in PALAWAN PASSAGE until after morning navigational positions had been plotted. This plan worked out perfectly. DARTER attacked at 0522, and the Task Force was still

— page 83 —
12a/pr
30 November 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (35247) - Report of Fifth War Patrol - Comment on:

apparently unwilling to risk radical change in base course, because, it steamed on and twenty minutes later DACE struck, sinking an AEG Class CA. In a short period of time this submarine team sank two heavy cruisers and damaged a third.

5. At 1100 DACE was back at periscope depth, and at 1510 she made out DARTIER'S stopped cruiser. The Commanding Officer decided not to attack until after dark because the presence of air cover and two destroyers made daylight submerged attack inadvisable until his very tired crew had been given a short rest period.

6. At 2053 radar contact was regained on the damaged cruiser, and DACE was ordered to track from enemy's port bow, and await DARTIER'S attack before launching her own. Tracking was discontinued at 0007 when DACE broke off contact to assist DARTIER who was around on BOMBAY SHOAL.

7. DACE arrived at the scene of DARTIER grounding at 0140 and stood by to render assistance as required. By 0439 all DARTIER's personnel had been rescued. The assistance rendered to DARTIER is a splendid example of effective seamanship.

8. DACE was unable to place a torpedo hit in DARTIER'S hull because all four of her torpedoes exploded on the reef. She did succeed in scoring twenty one hits with her four inch gun, but these hits appeared to do little damage except to start a fuel oil fire in the forward fuel group.

9. The award of the Submarine Combat Insignia is authorized for this patrol.

10. The Force Commander congratulates DACE Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew upon their contribution to the great victory scored in the Second Battle of the PHILIPPINES. The DACE DARTIER team struck the first blow. The following damage was

— page 84 —
14237
FE64-71/AI6-8
Serial 01458
C-U-N-F-I-D-N-T-I-A-I
SECOND HAND REPORT to
USS D.C. Conf. Lt.
A16-3/09, dated 6 November
1944. Report of Fifth War
Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Fifth War
Patrol - Comment on.

inflicted upon the enemy:

SUNK

1 - AO (large - EU) 10,000 Tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - AP (large - EU) 7,500 Tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - CA (TAGU Class - EU) 9,900 Tons (Attack No. 3)

Total 27,400 Tons

R. W. CHRISTIE.
ORIGINAL COPY

DISTRIBUTION:
Cominch (3) - Direct CTG-71.5 (2)
Vice Opnav (2) - Direct CTG-71.8 (2)
Vice Opnav Op-23c (1) CTG-71.9 (2)
Com1stFLt (1) ComSubRon-12 (2)
Com2ndFLt (1) DivComSubRon-12 (1)
Com7thFLt (2) DivComSubRon-18 (1)
ComSub1stFLt (30) DivComSubRon-26 (1)
ComSub2ndFLt (4) ComSubDiv-162 (1)
CIF-1 (7) S/A School, N.L. Conn. (2)
CTG-71.3 (2) SubAd. Inar Island. (2)
CTG-71.4 (2) S/A's 7th Flt (1)

THIS REPORT WILL BE DESTROYED PRIOR TO ENTRY INTO NAVY COMMAND WATER.

P. F. STRAUB, Jr.
Flag Secretary.

1 0674

- 3 -

— page 85 —
17189
Reg. No. 1 0674
Serial: 08571
26DEC 1944

CONFIDENTIAL
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to:
USS DACE conf. ltr.
Al6-3/09 of 6 Nov. 1944.

From: Commander SEVENTH Fleet.
To: Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. Forwarded.

2. The Fifth War Patrol of the USS DACE embraces one of the most outstanding contributions by submarines to the ultimate destruction of the Japanese Navy. Teamed with the USS DARTER, the DACE on 23 October contacted in Palawan Passage a large enemy task force composed of cruisers and battleships which were bound for Leyte Gulf bent on stopping our invasion of the Philippines. In a splendidly executed attack DACE sank a heavy cruiser, making a total of three heavy cruisers stopped by this team. In addition timely contact reports revealed the magnitude of the enemy force. The early receipt of this information enabled our forces to formulate and put into effect the counter measures which resulted in a major disaster for the Japanese in the Second Battle of the Philippine's Sea.

3. It is regrettable that with two submarines in the vicinity, the damaged cruiser remained helpless for over twelve hours and then finally escaped at creeping speed.

4. The fine seamanship and good judgment shown by the DACE in rescuing the entire complement of the grounded DARTER is a tribute to our submarine force.

5. The Commander Seventh Fleet congratulates the Commanding Officer and crew of the USS DACE for a brilliant accomplishment, in keeping with the high-cut traditions of the Naval Service.

Copies to:
ComSubs7thFlt
ComSubRon-18
CO USS DACE

Deputy

— page 86 —
1945-01-25 12:00:00
Serial: 01590
C-C-N-R-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
From: The Commander Submarines, Seventh Fleet.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: The Commander, Seventh Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE - Revision of damage inflicted during Fifth War Patrol.

Reference: (a) Consubst7thFlt 2nd End. T824-71/A16-3 (Serial 01456) or 50 November 1944 to USS DACE Conf. Ltr. A13-3/09, dated 6 Nov. 1944 (Report of Fifth War Patrol).
(b) ONI 822-J (A Statistical Summary of the Japanese Navy).

1. The assessment of damage inflicted on the enemy during the subject War Patrol, was credited by reference (a) as follows:

SUNK

1 - AO (Large - EU) 10,000 Tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - AP (Large - EU) 7,500 Tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - CA (ATAGO Class - EU) 9,200 Tons (Attack No. 3)

Total 27,400 Tons

2. Reference (b) indicates that the latest Statistical Summary of the Japanese Navy estimates the ATAGO class cruiser as being of 12,500 tons displacement rather than the former estimate of 9,900 tons. Damage is therefore revised as follows:

SUNK

1 - AO (Large - EU) 10,000 Tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - AP (Large - EU) 7,500 Tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - CA (ATAGO Class - EU) 12,500 Tons (Attack No. 3)

Total 30,000 Tons

RECEIVED S-C FILES
T-3 From 2065
R. W. CHRISTIE
10 JAN 1945
RECEIVED
NAVY DEPARTMENT

— page 89 —
1944-1945
Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War
Patrol Number SIX.

(A) PROLOGUE
Arrived Fremantle, Western Australia on 6 November 1944 from fifth war patrol. Received excellent refit of normal duration conducted by Relief Crew of Submarine Division 181 and U.S.S. EURYALE. Drydocked twice, bottom cleaned and painted, replaced port screw, and renewed woods to eliminate shaft squeaks. Accomplished the following major items: converted #4 M.B.T. to carry fuel, installed Loran Gear, APR-1, AN/SPA-1, OAO, new antenna for VHF and APR, grid type SJ reflector, replaced wipd QB sound head, and installed DACE-type fire control communication system. Ship's company returned from rest camp and took over the ship from relief crew on 21 November 1944. On same day Commander Otis R. COLE, JR., U.S. Navy relieved Commander Bladen D. CLAGGETT, U.S. Navy as commanding officer. During period 21 November to 1 December conducted sound tests, electronics tests, independent exercises, loading, fueling and a five day continuous underway training period which included deep dives, evasion, gun shoot, day and night approaches. Training was supervised by Commander Submarine Division 182 (Commander C.C. BURLINGAME, U.S.N.) whose helpful suggestions were greatly appreciated. Ensigns C.M. YOUNGER, JR., USN and E.T. JONES, USN were detached. Lieutenant W.W. PRICE, JR., USN reported aboard for duty. Ready for sea 2 December 1944.

(B) NARRATIVE
(All times HOW unless otherwise stated.)

Names of all officers and Chief Petty Officers attached to U.S.S. DACE during this patrol and total number of previous patrols made are as follows:

-1-

— page 90 —
1310
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War
Patrol Number SIX.

RANK & NAME
Commander O.R. COLE, JR., USN
Lt.Cmdr. R. BENTLEY, USN
Lieutenant W.W. PRICE, JR., USN
Lieutenant M. GODEK, DE, USNR
Lieutenant S.F. REID, DE, USNR
Lieutenant W.J. DOWORTH, JR., DE, USNR
Lieut.(jg) A.A. EBEL, DE(R), USNR
Lieut.(jg) E.H. JONES, E(R), USNR
Lieut.(jg) H.H. CALDWELL, USN
Ensign P. BANTA, EM(L), USNR

MURPHY, H.A., CTM(FA), USN
WRIGHT, C.L., CRT(AA)(T), V6, USNR
OGLE, P.L., CMOMM(AA)(T), USN
KERR, "J" "C", CMOMM(AA)(T), USN
PARSONS, E., CEM(AA)(T), USN
SMITH, G.O., CQM(AA)(T), USN
MORSE, R.W., CY(AA), USN
CHIARELLI, S.F., CMOMM(AA), USN

2 December 1944
1310
Underway from Fremantle, Western Australia on sixth war patrol in company with U.S.S. BERGALL.

1550
Dove for trim and conducted day and night approaches on U.S.S. ISABEL.

2300
DACE and BERGALL parted company with ISABEL and set course for Exmouth Gulf, Western Australia.

3 December 1944
0506
Made trim dive.

1300
Conducted day approaches on BERGALL and acted as her target.

-2-

— page 91 —
1650 Passed Unidentified south bound U.S. submarine (probably BLG.KFIN).

4 December 1944

0514 Made training and trim dive. Tested all torpedoes in tubes for tightness at 65 feet with outer doors opened for 15 minutes.

0632 Passed British submarine on horizon (probably HMS T.N.T.L.IUS).

0840 Conducted submerged approaches with BERG.LIL.

1300 Conducted searchlight and radar communication drills with BERG.LIL.

2100 Conducted night surface approaches with BERG.LIL.

2320 Made radar contact with land bearing 1050T, range 55,000 yards.

Torpedo check shows evidence of careless senseless on tender's part in getting torpedoes ready. (See REMARKS).

5 December 1944

0215 Sighted V.L.MING HELD Light bearing 0910T, range 30,000 yards.

0520 Entered EXMOUTH Gulf, Western Australia. Shaped course for oil tanker.

0827 Moored port side to U.S.S. BERG.LIL on starboard side of oil tanker. (Tanker yawing badly.) Exchanged voyage views with Commanding Officer, BERG.LIL.

-3-

— page 92 —
0920 HMS STOIC moored starboard side to port side of tanker. Commanding officers of D.C.E and BERG.LL paid courtesy calls on the Commanding Officer of HMS STOIC.

1135 Commenced fueling.

1300 Called on Commanding Officer Base and Tender.

1515 Completed fueling having received 9,000 gallons diesel oil.

1620 STOIC underway. Standing out. D.C.E and BERG.LL being ready to leave at same time, both Commanding Officers agreed to proceed to LOMBOK Straits in company to continue training and prevent possible mixups.

1625 Underway standing out of EXMOUTH Gulf enroute LOMBOK Straits in company with BERG.LL.

1815 Held gun shoot (4" and 40mm guns) to practice radar spotting on wreck near VIAMING HEAD.

1843 Secured shoot.

2347 Radar contact followed by visual contact on unidentified submarine on course 3150T, speed 10. Undoubtedly HMS STOIC but kept clear anyhow.

6 December 1944

0529 Made training and trim dive.

1516 BERG.LL and DACE dove together 1,500 yards apart on divergent courses. Tested out underwater sound communications, ping ranges (maximum range obtained 3,925 yards), and conducted listening tests upon each other.

— page 93 —
1638 Surfaced. Tests completed.
1647 Dove. (Dive by hand training dive).
1800 Conducted ABK test with BERGALL.
2035 Dove. (Night training dive).
2122 Dove. (Night training dive).
No. 3 main generator armature is down to 100,000 ohms. (See MAJOR DEFECTS).

7 December 1944
0328 Dove. (Night training dive).
0407 Dove. (Night training dive).
0937 Made submerged approach on BERGALL.
1913 Made end around night submerged radar approach on BERGALL.

8 December 1944
0918 Made trim dive.
1030 Test fired small caliber guns and checked engines thoroughly prior to transiting LOMBOK Straits.
2125 In the dark of the moon with partly overcast sky and 4 main engines on the line commenced transit of LOMBOK Straits astern of BERGALL. All was uneventful until
2214 When radar contacted an object at 9,000

— page 94 —
2243
U.S.S. DACE (SS247); Report of War
Patrol Number SIX.

yards, bearing 328°T. (Ship contact #1).
Commenced tracking but ceased to be annoyed
by him when he dropped art and tracked at
speed zero.

2243
Radar contact bearing 009°T, 12,000 yards
tracked on course 185°T, speed 8. (Ship contact #2). Avoided by turning right and at

2326
Resumed base course 020°T. Had received
BERGALL's warning by voice concerning these
last two contacts.

2327
Radar contact bearing 060°T, range 12,000
yards. (Ship contact #4).

2329
Radar contact bearing 330°T, range 7,700
yards. (Ship contact #5). With DACE on
course 0000T.this put one ship on the port
bow and one on the starboard both closing.
At this point the DACE and ERGALL parted
company. We turned right to end around both
contacts #4 and #5. Fortunately #4 tracked
at 21 knots on 297°T (#5 at 12 knots on 100°T)
so we passed at a great rate with closest
range 3,800 yards, and by

2340
Had eased the ship's head around to 050°T
with open sea ahead. The Nips have IOMBOX
well covered tonight and I am thankful for
the dark night and excellent radar, tracking,
and plotting teams.

2345
Radar contact range 3,000 yards. (Ship
contact #6). Manned the 40mm and 30 cal.

-6-

— page 95 —
9 December 1944
0030 Clear of the LOMBOK patrol parade and on course 0120T, 75/90 on 3 main engines.
0100 S.J. radar interference 2200R. Assume BERGALL.
0422 Passed SEKALA Island 10 miles to port.
0558 Made trim dive.
0613 Surfaced. Sighted BERGALL astern through high periscope.
0827 Dove for unidentified plane sighted by lookout. (Plane contact #1).
0930 Surfaced.
0933 Dove for unidentified plane sighted by lookout. (Plane contact #2). Sky overcast with low clouds so decided to remain down until.
1210 Surfaced and bent on 3 main engines, 75/90 so as to make KARIMATA Straits tomorrow night.
1515 Sighted unidentified ship through high periscope. (Ship contact #7). As we had SJ interference and he appeared to be a sub we challenged on SJ radar. Received no reply, so at
1610 Reversed course to investigate.
1636 Came back to base course having identified ship as a small schooner, probably native manned.
-7-

— page 96 —
1820 Sighted small native sailing canoe by high periscope. Avoided.
: 1845 Sighted GREAT MASALEMBO Island through high periscope.
: 1905 Radar contact 9,000 yards. Native boat.
: 10 December 1944
: 0230 Radar contact 7,000 yards. Small fry--probably native boat. Avoided.
: 0350 Radar contact 17,450 yards. (Ship contact #8). Stationed tracking party and closed range to 12,500 yards. Target tracked on course 0530T, straight course, speed 7.5. Sky partly cloudy but with enough moon to prevent close undetected surface approach, yet too dark for periscope. Set up looks like small fry but perhaps he is big enough to shoot at. Decided to track from ahead, get on his track and dive for dawn approach.
: 0545 Dove (depth of water 30-35 fathoms), obtained trim and BT card at 120 feet (no gradient), came up to 58 feet and sighted target at about 10,000 yards. Still no change in set up. Am glad we waited to view target for he turned out to be a war color painted A/S or mine sweeper type trawler (no colors), too small to shoot at.
: 0632 Commenced hauling off track and watching him go by. He had awnings rigged so couldn't see his armament, but considered him not a gun target, particularly with the seas picking up and nearness of SURABAYA's air-fields, so at

-8-

— page 97 —
0853 With target out of sight surfaced and headed for KARAMATA Straits at 2 engine speed into the teeth of a local storm. Impossible to make KARAMATA tonight. Regret yesterday's fuel expenditure in the attempt:

1100 Passed BAYEAN Island 30 miles to port.

1620 Received CTF-71's serial 2 telling us to complete our special mission as soon as possible so as to take our place on a scouting line.

2000 Continued wind, seas, and rain squalls from ahead.

2038: Weak radar pip at 14,000 yards. Avoided.

11 December 1944

0618 Dove at southern approaches to KARIMATA Straits and set course towards the narrows. Plan to remain submerged today so as to transit the narrows undetected tonight. Storm is passing to westward but there are still low clouds and rain squalls. Routined all torpedoes and found further evidence of careless tender torpedo work, i.e. screwdriver in midship section. (See REMARKS).

1916 Surfaced.

1923 Radar contact 0680T, 6,000 yards. Avoided. Making two engine speed, working up to 75/90 on 4 engines as soon as engines become secured from battery charge.

12 December 1944

0048 Radar contact on KARIMATA Island bearing 3300T, 55 miles.

— page 98 —
0230 Weak SJ interference from ahead growing stronger and at
: 0333 Obtained radar contact 2250T, range 10,000 yards.
: Although I am sure this was the PARGO, we could not get any response to our several challenges by SJ. We are in the narrows now.
: 0400 Clear of KARIMATA Straits. SJ contact lost and interference growing weaker.
: 0600 Slowed to 2 main engines.
: 0950 Dove for trim. Yatching weather has returned.
: 1026 Surfaced.
: 1504 Sighted PEDJANTAN. Island bearing 2560T at 50 miles.
: Decided to carry out tradition and dive under the equator so at
: 1722 Dove and at
: 1739 Crossed under the equator at Longitude 107°-01' East at 65 feet.
: 1744 Surfaced.
: 1815 Sighted BADAS Islands bearing 3570T at 30 miles.
: 1924 Made radar contact on TOKONG KEMOEDI. Island bearing 3480T at 22 miles.
: 2245 Radar contact bearing 2680T at 18,230 yards. (Ship contact #9). Commenced tracking. Night pitch black with rain and lightning.

-10-

— page 99 —
2300
Began "to smell a rat" when contact tracked at zero speed but decided to close and be ready for all eventualities, going to battle stations at

and preparing the tubes.

At a range of 3,000 yards the target was identified in the lightning as a junk, so we secured from battle stations and resumed base course. Our SJ radar has obtained contacts on small stuff at extremely long ranges.

13 December 1944

Radar contact on CAMEL's HUMP Island bearing 051°T at 22 miles.

Sighted PULO RIABU Island bearing 302°T at 42 miles.

Dove for trim.

Surfaced.

SD contact 22 miles. (Aircraft contact #3). Plane apparently circling as contact remained at about 22 miles until

When it opened out to 25 miles and disappeared.

Passed 2 oil drums. Latitude 030-34' N, Longitude 1070-01' E.

Sighted GREAT NATURA Island bearing 067°T at 75 miles.

Changed base course to 032°T to follow SINGAPORE-HONG KONG sea route.

-11-

— page 100 —
14 December 1944
0642 Dove for trim.
0706 Surfaced.
1000 Passed 3 life rafts (2 bamboo, 1 modern painted white with Jap characters on it).
Latitude 070-17' N, Longitude 108-11' E.
1100 Commenced passing through wreck strewn waters. Wreckage consisted of small bales, planks, light bulbs, life floats and rings, and various other articles. Maneuvered and recovered 1 life buoy, 1 life ring (both with Jap characters on them), one inner tube with Jap bayonet attached, one sign with "KOKUKUYO MAHU No. 3" painted on it in English.
Posit: Latitude 070-31' n, Longitude 108-16' E.
1156 Resumed base course.
1800 After 5 days in water of 12 to 35 fathoms finally crossed the 50-fathom mark.

15 December 1944
0433 Weak SJ interference drawing aft. Probably BASHIAW.
0635 Dove for trim and BT card.
0717 Surfaced.
0836 Left SINGAPORE-HONG KONG trade route and headed toward patrol area to northward.
0942 Dove for 2-engine bomber sighted by lookout.
(Aircraft contact #4).

-12-

— page 101 —
1017
Surfaced. Seas and wind from ahead picking up.

1217
At Latitude 110-27' N, Longitude 110-23' E sighted a barnacle encrusted spherical horn type mine which proved an elusive target in the heavy seas for 20mm, 30 cal. machine gun, and Thompson submachine gun. Ammunition expended--3 pans 20mm, 2 belts 30 cal. and 4 clips .45 cal. Registered three or four hits but mine still floated and at

1246
Resumed base course having decided we could waste no more time and still accomplish our mission tonight. It is well we so decided for at

1250
The radar warning bell rang and down we plunged. SD contact was 10½ miles closing. (Aircraft contact #5).

1335
Surfaced and while in the act of opening the hatch the radar warning bell rang again, so at

1335-15
Down we plunged again. SD contact was 6 miles this time. (Aircraft contact #6). Guess we were a bit premature on the surfacing but if this keeps up we will be thrown a day behind schedule.

1436
Surfaced and put on 3 engines to make up for lost time.

2022
SJ contacted land bearing 2620T at 50 miles.

2150
Converted #4 from Reserve Fuel Ballast to Main Ballast Tank. This was a welcome help to our speed and buoyancy as the head winds and seas are building up.

-13-

— page 102 —
16 December 1944
0230 Passed PULAU GAMBIER Island abeam to port distance seven miles.
0330 Commenced special mission in confined 12 fathom waters with a rough sea and 3 knot southerly current.
0445 Completed special mission. The shoreline looked awfully close at 1,000 yards so opened the coast at 4 engine speed.
0605 As dawn was breaking dove for a much needed trim dive in 60 fathoms, six miles east of PULAU GAMBIER and decided to patrol submerged during the day 3 to 4 miles east of island. Routined torpedoes and gave all hands a much needed rest. I had intended to send our "completed mission" message prior to diving but due to our late completion time I felt that we would not have time to set up and clear message before dawn, and that we were to close to the scene of our night's activity.
1758 Heard a heavy, loud, distant explosion. Probably a mine. Nothing in sight through the periscope. Seas very heavy and wind strong from the north. Visibility impaired by seas and rain squalls.
1846 Heard another distant explosion same as one above but not quite as loud. Nothing in sight.
1917 Surfaced a couple of miles south of our diving point. We had been combating south-e. jy currents of 3 to 4 knots and could make not headway submerged at 2/3 speed. Opened to the northeast and at

— page 103 —
2355
Transmitted DACE serial one to CTF-71
informing him of successful completion of
special mission.

17 December 1944

0030
Upon completion of radio transmission headed
south surf riding on 30 foot waves.

0304
Received expected orders (CTF-71 serial
40) telling us to relieve GUAVINA at 2000 off
CAMARAN Bay. Decided to ride out storm on
surface 40 to 50 miles off Cape VARILLA
drifting slowly southward with our 3 knot
current.

1055
SJ contact 30,000 yards closing fast. SD
contact 16 miles. (Aircraft contact #7).
Changed course to a diving course and awaited
developments. Sky overcast and low ceiling.

1058
Both radars lost contact.

1100
SD regained contact 10 miles closing to 8 miles.
Dove.

1115
Periscope depth--nothing in sight.

1135
Surfaced.

1137
SD contact 14 miles. (Aircraft contact
#8).

1140
Plane moved out to 16.5 miles and SD lost
contact.

1320
Received garbled version of MINGO's task
force contact. There is a possibility we can
intercept so increased speed to 75/90 on 4
main engines and ran with the seas on 1500T.

-15-

— page 104 —
1400
Gave MINGO my position and course informing him I was in on the chase and requested latest information. Tried to raise GUAVINA also, so she would know I would not be on relieving station by 2000 tonight. Unable to raise GUAVINA but as our primary mission was to scout this task force, I expect my station will be changed anyhow due to task force's departure CAMRANH Bay.

: 1430
MINGO coming in fine by voice. His latest information plus our last fuzzy sun line makes it look bad for our intercepting the Nips. Will hang on for a while and hope for the breaks.

: 1817
Weak SJ interference on starboard beam.

: 1930
Possibly MINGO.

: 1935
We are on task force's track and quite a ways astern of his DR position. Our chase looked hopeless so at

: 2000
Changed course to head for CAMRANH Bay.

: 2000
Notified GUAVINA by voice that DACE would be unable to reach assigned station tonight. Sent DACE's serial two to CTF-71 telling him of our fruitless chase, giving him a possible ETA at CAMRANH Bay of 0600 18th and our very doubtful position. (No fix for 25 hours).

: 2227
Heavy seas forced us to slow to standard on 1 main engine and at

: 2300
Slowed to 2/3 on 1 M.E. My ETA was optimistic.

: 18 December 1944
Continued high winds and 30 to 40 foot seas from north. Position very doubtful. We believe

— page 105 —
0730
Decided to patrol 30 to 40 miles off coast on 10 mile tracks 320 - 050 to make as much northing as possible and hope for a fix.

: 0815
Weak SJ interference at 1750T. Maybe MINGO is looking for her spot too.

: 1250
Dove to routine torpedoes and give all hands a brief respite from the heavy weather.

: 1829
Surfaced.

: 1900
Challenged SJ interference to the southwest and MINGO replied. Strong radar interference on APR at 200 MC.

: 2043
Received CTF-71's serial 47 directing BECUNA, DACE, PADDLE, HOE, AND FLASHER to constitute an offensive reconnaissance group under Commander STURR in BECUNA. DACE's assigned station remains as before.

: 2100
Position definitely fixed by radar. Commenced running to the north, arriving in assigned area about 2230.

: 19 December 1944
Our 197 to 200 MC radar is coming in strong on APR. Apparently shorebased.

: 0613
Dove in 65 fathoms of water 7 miles from mainland end 4 miles from HON NAI Island. Seas still heavy, 3 knot southerly current, periscope depth difficult. Plan to work our way stern first to a position about 3 or 4 miles from mainland and six miles south of HON NAI, then head into current and adjust speed to maintain position.

-17-

— page 106 —
0915 Sound picked up pinging to the southward.
0916 Sighted masts bearing 1610T. Changed course and headed for same. Stationed tracking party. (Ship contact #10).
0922 Ship appeared to be a large escort, angle on the bow of 70 port, range about 5,000 yards. (This ship and the other 2 escorts encountered later looked exactly like type DE - UN-1 except they appeared flush deck).
0923 Sound heard another pinger and upon looking aft a similar type of escort was sighted, followed shortly after by a third. All were to seaward of us. Commenced approach on the middle escort although it would have been impossible to hit him in the very rough seas with his shallow draft. From here on things started happening fast.
0925 Went to battle stations submerged. Sighted the tops of a large ship inshore of us. Shifted approach to him. First escort had passed ahead about 2,000 yards from us. Target was made out as a new, big, engines aft tanker of about 1,000 tons. We were between the tanker and escorts. Upon further examination astern of target at least four more big ships in close column were sighted; the two nearest were big tankers and the other two might well have been but were not definitely identified. Decided to let the first tanker or so go by along with the escorts and get in shots at the last 2 or 3 astern of the last visible escort. Convoy course was about 0180T, speed 8.5 knots, at about
1000 I noticed that the first tanker had turned about 90° to go south and to seaward of HON NAI Island and was passing about 1,500 to

-18-

— page 107 —
1001
Received a series of four very close depth charges or depth bombs. Apparently slightly aft. The boat shook violently and cork and paint chips filtered down from the overheads. We are in 45 to 50 fathoms of water. Ordered 250 feet, rig for depth charge and silent running, securing tubes and changing course to the right. Don't know positively how we were detected but strongly suspect the periscope was exposed too much in the rough seas. Heavy seas either kept the periscope under or over-exposed. We had to use large angles to keep from broaching in heavy seas and we may have even exposed the screws. At any rate the Nips apparently aren't too near sighted. No planes were sighted on a couple of brief sweeps but there should have been some and hindthought makes me believe this counter-attack was by plane. (Aircraft contact #9).

1011 to. Received seven more well placed depth charges closer than the first and apparently across the stern. More cork and paint, several screws in ventilation ducts sheared, light bulbs went, contactors sent out blue flames, No. 7 Main vent operating lever worked up and down violently, Main and Hull Induction pins fell out, oil leak reported by the After Battery, but this was just an