U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS-234) — war patrol report SS-234_KINGFISH_Part1.pdf

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2 - (KINGFISH)

Two uneventful weeks were spent avoiding enemy patrol vessels and on 23 October, a small freighter running cautiously along the coast was sunk by two torpedo hits, one forward and one aft. Five days later KINGFISH cautiously investigated a trawler with a view toward using the deck gun, but the enemy vessel opened fire and proved more than a match for the sub.

Time was up, so KINGFISH left her area and proceeded to Midway, arriving there on 3 November. On her first war patrol, KINGFISH had sunk two ships with a total tonnage of 11,958, and damaged two more totalling 10,100 tons.

After rest, recuperation, and repairs, KINGFISH stood out of Midway on 25 November, en route to Chichi Jima and her second war patrol. The Bonins were left behind on 5 December and she headed for the South China Sea. Two days later a radically zigzagging freighter was sighted. Missing completely on the first attack, KINGFISH's torpedoes struck home twice during the second, and the freighter was immediately involved in flames two hundred feet high. The following day, two enemy ships were sighted and attacked, but the only torpedo that hit the enemy ships failed to explode.

On the night of 28 December 1942, an enemy freighter was sighted, tracked, and sunk by KINGFISH, using only one of her torpedoes. On 6 and 7 January 1943, two trawlers were attacked by gunfire, the first was riddled and set afire with oily rags, and the second was sunk by gunfire alone.

KINGFISH left the area, proceeding to Pearl Harbor, via Midway, and arrived at Pearl Harbor on 23 January 1943, for a three week overhaul. KINGFISH's second war patrol score was four ships sunk with a total tonnage of 14,045.

Her overhaul completed, on 16 February KINGFISH got underway from Pearl Harbor, en route to Formosa, via Midway. The trip was broken by the sinking of a trawler off the Bonins and an unsuccessful game of hide and seek with a Jap submarine.

After a fruitless attack on an enemy ship on 10 March, KINGFISH sighted a passenger freighter five days later and added one solid torpedo hit to her credit. The damage to this ship could not be ascertained as the submarine was immediately set on by enemy bombs and depth charges.

A Nip freighter was sighted close to the beach on 17 March, and two hits from the bow tubes settled her stern and her fate. A single torpedo from the stern tube was seen to hit, but failed to explode.

A fully loaded troop transport was sighted on 19 March and KINGFISH fired a spread of four torpedoes, scoring two hits. The transport listed to starboard and began settling by the stern, while the Nip troops scrambled down the sides of the ship, and about two hundred were left in the water with unknown hundreds going down with the ship.

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3 - (KINGFISH)

On 21 March an unsuccessful attack was made on another enemy ship, and two days later, while approaching an enemy destroyer, KINGFISH was sighted by the enemy ship, which subjected the submarine to one of the worst depth charges that any sub had taken and survived, up to that time in the war. KINGFISH's pressure hull was pushed in four inches in spots, machinery was moved off its foundations, glass gauges, and all instruments were wrecked. The damage was so great and confidential codes burned and all secret material demolished that to prevent them from falling into the hands of the enemy, should KINGFISH be forced to surface. The last string of depth charges bashed in the main induction piping and allowed a huge bubble to escape to the surface, apparently causing the Japs to think the ship had sunk for there were no further attacks.

KINGFISH cautiously surfaced after fourteen hours of severe attack, finding their attackers a mere few thousand yards off, lying to the ship then mustered all the speed she could and cleared that area.

Returning to Pearl Harbor on 9 April 1943, KINGFISH ended her third patrol with three ships sunk with a total tonnage of 13, 043. She then proceeded to Mare Island Navy Yard, where entire new sections were built and fitted on the submarine.

Battle damage repaired, KINGFISH proceeded to Pearl Harbor and after an intensive refresher period of training, departed Pearl Harbor on 7 July en route to her fourth war patrol in the Bebuyan Channel, north of the Philippines, Southern Formosa and off Manila.

During this patrol, slight enemy activity was encountered up to 6 August, and all of KINGFISH's attacks were unsuccessful. On 29 August the ship was ordered to depart her area and refit at Freemantle, Australia, arriving there on 3 September.

Refitted and refreshed, KINGFISH stood out of Freemantle on 24 September, en route to her fifth war patrol in the South China Sea. While on this patrol two special secret missions were successfully carried out.

The submarine transitted the Lombok Strait, and the following day a Jap gunboat was sunk by gunfire. Off Sibu Island, on 9 October, a tanker of the Nippon Maru class and a destroyer were contacted, and four torpedoes were fired, scoring two hits. The destroyer made sound contact and ton depth charges followed, as KINGFISH cleared the area, where the tanker was slowly sinking.

The submarine shifted her area to Cape Varella on 20 October, and the same day she sighted, attacked, and sank a Jap tanker.

KINGFISH pulled into Freemantle on 14 November 1943, with three ships, totaling 19,075 tons, sunk on her fifth patrol.

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4 - (KINGFISH)

A month later, on 16 December 1943, KINGFISH stood out of 'roomantlo, and threaded her way to the South China Sea, via Lombok Strait, Sibutu Passage, and Balabac Strait. In the South China Sea a five ship convoy, consisting of a large tanker, three freighters and one escort was encountered on 2 January 1944, and after a night of tracking, KINGFISH sent the tanker to the bottom early the next morning. The submarine was then sent on by the enemy's escorting destroyer, SS-234 turned and fired her stern tubes, which hit the largest freighter. By now the shells from the escort were falling uncomfortably close, causing the submarine to dive. Depth charges were dropped by the Nip vessel as she crossed over the sub's stern, and many breaking up noises were heard from the direction of the convoy.

Three hours after hearing only three sets of screws leaving the scano of the attack, KINGFISH surfaced, and after four hours of attempting to regain contact, a single target was sighted using very unorthodox manoeuvres. Following one unsuccessful approach, a spread of four torpedoes was fired, and three hits were scored. Instantly the target became a mass of flames, and it was finally concluded that it must have been a gasoline laden tanker which had broken down and was trying to effect repairs.

Early in the morning of 7 January, KINGFISH encountered another Jap convoy, consisting of, a large tanker, a freighter, and one escort. Moving ahead, the sub waited until nightfall. At 2200 that night, she fired four torpedoes at the tanker, which erupted into flames 300 feet high, another brace of torpedoes was fired at the freighter. To escape detection in the brightly lighted area, KINGFISH dove, and after waiting out a few randomly dropped depth charges, she surfaced to find that the freighter had sunk and the tanker was on its way down. This started the submarine on her second 100,000 tons, and shortly thereafter, she set course for Pearl Harbor.

On 26 January KINGFISH moored at the Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, thus completing a successful patrol, during which she sent three enemy ships totaling 22,331 tons to the bottom, and damaged two others.

From 19 February to 9 April, KINGFISH conducted her seventh war patrol in the Mariana Islands area. On this unsuccessful patrol only three contacts were made, no attacks were possible, and the boat underwent a bombing by a Nip plane and was expertly depth charged by enemy escort vessels. She departed her patrol area and arrived at Majuro, Marshall Islands, on 9 April.

KINGFISH departed Majuro on 1 May on her eighth war patrol in the Bonins. This patrol was unfruitful with contacts being few and far between, and on 9 June the vessel received orders to return to Midway. Arriving at Midway on 19 June, the submarine was ordered to Mare Island, California, for a much needed overhaul. After a year of intensive warfare, her machinery was in need of repair.

Her overhaul completed, KINGFISH returned to Pearl Harbor, and departed on 12 October en route to her ninth war patrol off the Bonins, Nansoi, Shoto and east of Kyushu.

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5 - (KINGFISH)

Off Kita, Iwo Shima, a well developed attack produced a torpedo hit on a freighter guarded by a destroyer and a PC. After the attack the two escorts dropped 24 depth charges, and returning later, KINGFISH sighted the freighter, which was down by the bow with her escorts circling.

On 26 October, a loaded tanker with a PC escort was attacked by KINGFISH, and two hits were scored. After submerging, much breaking up noise was heard, but visibility conditions precluded any good observations. The same day an unsuccessful strike was made on a small freighter with two escorts.

KINGFISH arrived in the Okinawa area on 31 October, and soon days later a six-ship convoy was sighted. However, an enemy PT boat passed over the subs stern, causing a change of plans for a short time. Following the convoy until shortly after midnight, a lookout sighted the wake of three torpedoes just in time for the ship to turn sharply and miss the deadly missals. KINGFISH submerged ahead of the convoy in the darkness and waited. When her sound equipment picked up the Jap ships, her periscope went up, and it was discovered that one of the enemy's maneuvers had turned the convoy, so that it now would pass directly over the sub. Nothing could be done, but submerge and resume the chase, and a contact report was sent to other waiting subs. KINGFISH turned back to her area to search for the lone ship previously sighted, and that evening and the next morning following fellow submeriners on other boats cleaned up the large Jap convoy.

Her patrol completed, KINGFISH dropped anchor in Guam on 28 November, credited with two more ships sunk, totaling 7,500 tons.

On 23 December 1944, KINGFISH got underway from Guam for her tenth war patrol in the Nanpo Shoto area, from Chichi Jima to Tokyo. A six-ship convoy was picked up in the late afternoon on 2 January 1945, and a night attack was planned. However, that night a gale came up, making the seas mountainous. A spread of three missals was fired, but did not hit, and it was decided to track the vessels until calmer weather prevailed.

The following night nine torpedoes, six forward and three aft, were fired at a freighter and tanker and five hits resulted, three in the tanker and two in the freighter. A burst of speed brought KINGFISH clear of a pursuing escort, and after reloading, she had to break off the chase as word was received that some B-29 pilots had been seen floating in the waters nearby.

Despite the aid of a searching B-29, no trace of the missing aviators was found. On 27 January, a tremendous force of B-29's passed overhead--Tokyo bound. For veteran submariners this sight of the Air Force invading submarine territory and hitting Honshu was of tremendous morale value. Submarines now had the additional task of performing lifeguard duties for the Army and Navy aviators.

KINGFISH headed south for Guam, arriving there on 1 February, saving sunk two ships, totaling 15,500 tons, on that patrol.

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6 - (KINGFISH)

After being refitted at Guam, KINGFISH got underway for her
elevant war patrol near Sakishima Gunto on 6 March, operating in a
coordinated attack group with the submarines ICEFISH and SAWFISH. The
three subs also wore on lifeguard duty for aviators from a British
Task Force striking Ishigaki Jima and Iriomoto Jima.

On 27 March, with British Air Force cover, SS-234 rescued a
Royal Navy pilot, who had been shot down. Four days later, three more
Royal Navy men, attached to FN3 INDOMITABLE, were dipped out of the
ocean. Leaving the area, after those strikes, KINGFISH debarked the
Britishers at Saipan and continued on to Pearl Harbor.

On 25 April the submarine pulled into Pearl Harbor, where she
was to be refitted.

Departing Hawaii on 17 June, on her twelfth war patrol, KINGFISH
headed for the east coast of Honshu, via Guam. During the first
phase of the patrol, KINGFISH was a member of a coordinated attack
group on two anti-picket boat sweeps proceeding the THIRD Fleet bombardment of Honshu and Hokkaido. No contacts were made, and the submarine spent much time running at full speed to keep out of the way of the U.S. Task Forces.

On 10 July off Kinisan Point, Honshu, KINGFISH and the USS
MORAY made a coordinated attack on four enemy trawlers, and one of the
Nip vessels was sunk by MORAY. KINGFISH proceeded to an unproductive
patrol in the Kurilos, and on 5 August several fishing boats were
encountered off Paramushiro, two of which she sank by gunfire.

KINGFISH finished her twelfth and last patrol on 14 August 1945
arriving at Midway just two hours before the war ended, in a deafening
din of ship's boll and whistles.

On 27 August, KINGFISH got underway to Galveston, Texas, via
Pearl Harbor and the Panama Canal. Arriving at Galveston on 23
September, leave and recreation was enjoyed by her war-wary crew,
until 25 October, when she moved to Orange, Texas, for the Navy Day
celebration.

At Orange, KINGFISH was open to public inspection, and on 30
October she got underway for New London, Connecticut.

Arriving at New London on 5 November 1945, KINGFISH was inactivated and placed in the New London Group, Atlantic Resorvo Fleet on
9 March 1946. On 6 October 1947, the submarine was reassigned to the
FIRST Naval District, Boston, Massachusetts, for Naval Resorvo Training.

During her wartime career of three and a half years, KINGFISH
made twelve war patrols, during which she sent 21 enemy ships totaling
103,000 tons to the bottom, and damaged four Jap vessels totaling
25,373 tons. In addition, two special secret missions were successful-
ly carried out, and four British airmen were rescued. USS KINGFISH

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7 (KINGFISH)

also carned two battle.stars on the:Asiatic-Pacific Theatre service
ribbon for participating in the Assault and Occupation of Iwo Jima
15 February to 16 March 1945), and for the Assault and Occupation of
Okinawa Gunto (24 March to 30 June 1945).

* * * *

LIST OF SUCCESSIVE COMMANDING OFFICERS

CDR. V. L. Lowrance, USN

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12-10/A16-3(5) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 01301
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
November 16, 1942.

CO: SUBPAC F-TROL REPORT NO. 94
U.S.S. KINGFISH - REPORT OF
FIRST WAR PATROL.

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To: Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS234) - Report of First War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject Report.

1. The first war patrol of the U.S.S. KINGFISH was very well conducted and gratifying results were obtained.

2. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, is pleased to note that, of five torpedo attacks attempted, four of them were successful. The fifth attack was marred by a premature explosion of the first torpedo which may have given the target sufficient warning to permit it to avoid the second torpedo. Of the four successful attacks, two are known to have resulted in the sinking of the target. Due to lack of better evidence, damage is only credited for the other two attacks.

3. The Commanding Officer, officers, and men are deserving of a "Well done" for the success of their first patrol.

4. The KINGFISH is credited with having inflicted the following damage on the enemy:

SUNK
1 freighter 7,000 tons
1 freighter 4,958 tons
TOTAL 11,958 tons

DAIAGED
1 freighter 5,300 tons
1 freighter 4,800 tons
TOTAL 10,100 tons

DISTRIBUTION
(35CM-42)
List III: SS
Special:
21(5), EN3(5), ZI(5),
Consubstant (2), X3(1),
Consubssowespace (2).

R. H. ENGLISH.
E. R. S. LENBURNE,
Flag Secretary.
DECLASSIFIED.
DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C

44243
BY O-0989- DATE 5/30/42

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1942

U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of First War Patrol.

Period from September 9, 1942 to November 3, 1942.

Area: Operation Order 81-42.

PROLOGUE:

Arrived Pearl from Panama on August 31, 1942. Three days training, six days upkeep by tender force. Ready for sea September 9, 1942.

PART I - NARRATIVE

9 Sept.
0900 V.W. - Departed Pearl under surface escort for assigned area via Midway. Enroute made trim dive and escort dropped depth charges for indoctrination. Fired 3" and 50 calibre at target towed by escort. Usual training dives and battle surface enroute. Fired training rounds for 3" and 50 calibre enroute.

13 Sept.
0900 Y. - Moored alongside FULTON and took on 10,000 gallons of fuel.

1300 Y. - Departed with air escort and PT boats to 30 miles circle from Midway.

14-19 Sept. - Uneventful. Daily drills and dives.

20 Sept.
1800 K. - Doubtful plane contact by SD. Did not dive. Nothing sighted. Heavy seas from SW.

22 Sept.
1430 I. - Sighted masts ahead. Submerged and closed small trawler (200 tons) armed with gun forward (about 3") and machine guns. Too small for torpedo and too well armed for gun battle. 1627 surfaced. 1800 sighted similar trawler on horizon on our port beam. Did not submerge, as he was only in sight for a few minutes. Both boats evidently on patrol. Two hundred miles East of HACHIJO SHIMA.

-1- ENCLOSURE (A)

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23 Sept.
0430 I. - Submerged between HACHIJO SHIMA and INAIBA SHIMA. Submerged patrol all day. Nothing sighted. 1905 surfaced and proceeded toward assigned area.

: 24 Sept.
0300 I. - Sighted light ahead. Closed and identified as fishing sampan. Too close to area to disclose our presence by shooting him with our 50 calibre.

: 0418 I. - Submerged in area.

: 0636 I. - Commenced closing coast between: ICHEI SAI and SHIONO ISAKI.

: 1041 I. - Sighted masts ahead. Closed and identified as patrol vessel of about 400 tons armed with 3" gun forward and depth charges aft.

: 1740 I. - Sighted two patrol vessels and two medium size freighters inshore at range of about 4500 yards. Attempted to gain attack position but they passed out of range outbound from Kobe. 2000 I surfaced and patrolled south of SHIONO MISAKI. Bright full moon made close inshore patrol impractical during the night.

: 25 Sept.
0410 I. - Submerged and closed coast below ICHEI SAI. 0930 sighted two type 97 seaplanes patrolling along coast. 1127 sighted patrol vessel (1000 tons) with number on bow inshore of us distance 3000 yards. 1315 sighted smoke and masts to NW. Closed and identified as 1 small DD (TOMOZURU class) ahead and pinging followed by three freighters with two patrol vessels to seaward about 1500 yards of the freighters. 1413 fired three torpedoes at last ship in column at estimated range of 3000 yards. First torpedo hit 130 seconds after firing and other two torpedoes exploded about 2 minutes later with a deep rumbling noise when they hit the beach or completed their run. Before I could ascertain what damage had been done to target we dipped to 75 feet depth due to momentary loss of depth control.

- 2 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

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25 Sept.
1410 I.
Cont't.

: We must have been heard or seen just at firing because the DD headed our way at high speed. I ordered. periscope depth to observe target but at this time sound reported a torpedo coming at us from the DD. Torpedo passed ahead of us about one minute later as we were on our way to deep submergence. Another DD came down from ICHIE SAKI and joined the hunt. The two DD's were pinging and the 2 patrol boats would alternately stop and listen. We came to course S/ and ran silent. 1437 - 1505 Eight depth charges were dropped. Closest on about 200 yards. Sound heads housed at 300 feet due to maladjustment of mechanical stops. 2000. Periscope depth. Lowered sound heads. Sound contact ahead but could see nothing thru periscope. 2230 surfaced and retraced to southern part of area to inspect for damage. 2231 sighted destroyer of MINKAZAE class on starboard beam distance 4 miles angle on bow 140 port. Course 2300T. Speed 17 estimated. This DD passed from sight quickly. Put in quick charge and than came to SW course in hopes we might encounter DD Target similar in appearance to AYAHIA MARU S13 gross tonnage 5300 tons.

26 Sept.
0400 I. - Submerged to patrol south of Shiono Misaki, 0500 sighted patrol vessel of about 500 tons to northward angle on bow 90 port, range 5000 yards, speed 12 knots. He quickly passed out of sight. 2000 Surfaced and proceeded towards MUROTO SAKI.

27 Sept.
0400 I. - Submerged and closed MUROTO SAKI. Closed to within 4000 yards of the beach. Many small sampans sighted but no shipping. An object similar to our beds. The RADAR was observed on the bluff at MUROTO SAKI also gun emplacements along the eastern side and several newly constructed barracks. 2000 Surfaced and patrolled between MUROTO SAKI and ASHIZURI SAKI. Sighted several lighted and several unlighted sampans during the night.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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28 Sept.
0400 I. - Submerged and closed ASHIZURI SAKI to within 3000 yards of the beach. Many fishing sampans but no shipping sighted. Sea glass smooth.

: 29 Sept.
0924 I. - Closed MUROTO SAKI.

: 1015 I. - Sighted small vessel of about 400 tons which appeared to be a mine sweep standing north along the coast. 1200 Sighted small register ("about 500 tons) on southerly course. Closed to 500 yards. Too small for torpedo. 1500 Sighted 2 patrol boats of subchaser type in the area. They would stop periodically to "listeb. 1915 Surfaced and proceeded towards SHIONO MISAKI. Rain squalls during night.

: 30 Sept.
0400 I. - Submerged to close coast by ICHEI SAKI. Upon fixing our position we had experienced a 2 knot set to SW. Closed coast to an estimated 4 miles but no shipping was sighted. 1929 Surfaced.

: 1 Oct.
0400 I. - Submerged and closed coast below ICHEI SAKI. 1054 Sighted 2 seaplanes type 97 patrolling along coast. Sighted DD of TO:OZURU class ahead proceeding down the coast, range 8000 yards, angle on bow 90° sternboard. Two patrol vessels patrolling in area. 1130 Sighted 3 medium size freighters in close to beach on course 120° but could not get in for attack. 1135 Sighted 2 seaplanes patrolling coast. 1450 Sighted heavily laden freighter enroute from Kobe. Commenced attack. 1508 Fired 3 torpedoes at freighter, firing interval 10 seconds, range 1800 yards. First torpedo hit freighter aft with a loud explosion. Approximately 1 minute after this two more loud explosions were heard. Observed target at this time. Target was down by stern with about 20° angle and awash to bridge with bow sticking out of water and was settling rapidly. Sihce I was sure target was destroyed and knew planes were in the area, we went to 200 feet and came to SW course; Nearest patrol vessel was about 4000 yards at this time. 1515 Two depth charges from plane. 1530 Depth charging commenced from five different vessels.

- 4 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 15 —
1. USS S. KINGFISH - Report of First War Patrol.

2-3 Oct. 1400 I. Between this time and 1737, 54 depth charges were dropped within 150 yards to 500 yards of us. 1645 Heard pinging astern. 2000 Surfaced and retired from area. Proceeded to southern part of area to inspect for and repair any damage. Tare at sailor to IVONS MARU, 7000 tons -ross, Class S-38.

4 Oct. Closed MURTO S. K. Numerous samans sighted and 2 small patrol vessels sighted during the day. 2000 Surfaced.

5 Oct. Patrolling between MURTO S. K. and ASHIZU S. K. 0030 Sighted 1lhted patrol vessel. Chanced course to work around patrols. 0155 Sighted freighter to northward distance 4 miles, standing towards MURTO S. K. estimated speed 12 knots. We were between the noon quarter and taret. Chanced to flank speed and attempted to gain position where taret would be down noon from us. Closed taret from his port quarter. "When range was an estimated 1500 yards, taret zigged and cut us dead astern. Since I believed he had seen us and also I saw flashlights beine used on bridges, decided to fire with this set-up. Sowed to 15 knots, 0330 fired one torpedo zero gyro anele, range 1000 yards. Ten seconds later fired second torpedo with one degree offset to right as taret seemed to turn slightly to starboard. First torpedo missed and second torpedo ran erratic. Forty seconds later fired third torpedo. This also missed. All torpedoes were heard to explode numerically five minutes after firing. Before firing each torpedo a careful and deliberate berine was taken with the bridge pelorus. Taret zigged about sixty degrees to starboard, so I came in for another attack. 0354 fired one bow shot, zero gyro anele, 1000 starboard track, range 900 yards. This hit taret forward with loud explosion and a column of water rose about 150 feet high by his bow. Also large column

-5- ENGLISH SURVEY "A"

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5 Oct. (cont'd) of smoke where torpedo hit. I swum hard right to fire a stern shot but dueto control error correct bearings was never entered. In TDC. Target swung to port, appeared to stop and took an angle down by bow. As we were 'steadying up on a course to fire our stern tubes, tarret opened fire with a five inch gun aft. His first two salvoes were about 1000 yards over but the third one was too close for comfort. By this time we had a set up to fire but had a 180° track so decided not to fire another torpedo. 0357 Dived and steamed to listen, chanced course to put target on quarter. Sound could hear no prorellers although previously we had heard him at 6000 yards range when we were making 10 knots speed. Immediately before we dived I observed the tarret closely. He had a down angle by the bow and a pront. deal of smoke was above and around him. It was too dark to see through the periscope as the moon was obscured by clouds. 0.15 Surfaced. Nothine in sight. Since it was not long until twilight and we had sighted 2 patrol vessels in area previously, we retired from the area. During this approach the SJ RCR was of no value since we can not no "pips" at any range. It is believed the Commander Officer made an error in not closing the last known position of the target after surfacing to definitely determine if the tarret sank or the extent of its damage. Target was of 5000 - 6000 tons and similar to MAGANE MARU photo # 305.

6 Oct. - Conducting submerged patrol between MUROTO SAKI and ASHITURI in vicinity of attack. Sighted large amounts of floating copra and other small debris.

7 Oct. - Submerged patrol in vicinity of MUROTO SAKI. Numerous samans and BOSO MARU patrols in area. The latter stopping periodically to listen. Had what appeared to be death charge rocks on stern. None of the BOSO MARU boats ever investi ated the fishing samans in the area. Weather very hazy up in the narrows.

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8 Oct. - Patrolling between EUROTO SAKI and SHIONO HIGAKI during the night. Closed coast below ICHIKE SAKI but sighted no shipping. 1100 sighted two seaplanes type 97 patrolling about 10 miles off the coast.

9 Oct. - During the night closed the coast between ICHIKE SAKI and SHIONO HIGAKI to within 6000 yards. No shipping sighted but about twenty sighted and unlighted sampans were sighted. We were trailed by two unlighted sampans for about an hour. JI Radar working for the first time, 0/10 Submerged and patrolled along coast. Destroyed ICHIKE SAKI was the only navigational light burning during the night. 1000 sighted 2 seaplanes sighted on the beach. 1222 heard pinching and sighted DD TOKIOZUNU class, estimated speed 18 knots proceeding towards Kobe. Commenced approach but last range was 3000 yards. Visibility was very hazy. 1250 Sound picked up patrol vessel which passed close aboard alternately stopping to listen. He remained in sound contact with us for the next two hours, unable to see him thru periscope. 1317 heard pinching to southward estimated distance 5000 yards. Visibility through periscope about 1000 yards. 1320 heard DD pinching east of us and another to the west. The three DD's and patrol vessel searched the area for the next two hours. He rigged for silent running and opened out from the coast. Visibility remained poor until we surfaced at 2000. I believe the sampans had reported our presence the previous night as the search was good to further off shore than usual and centered around where we had been sighted in the early morning.

10 Oct. - Patrolling off EUROTO SAKI. 0900 sighted 1 seaplane patrolling along coast. 0915 sighted 6 sighting boats flying along coast in formation. 1500 having sighted no shipping opened out into ---, to see if any traffic was being routed this way. Nothing sighted. 11 Oct. - Patrolling off ASHIZURI SAKI. Many fishing vessels but no shipping.

-7-

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12-14 Oct.
Patrolling offshore in southern part of area in hopes of intercepting any traffic being routed down the center of Kii SUDO. Nothing sighted. Routined torpedoes.

: 15 Oct.
Closed coast between ICHIE SAKI and SHIOHO IZAKI. 1000 observed smoke from direction of ICHIE SAKI which second to move south. Did not sight any masts, 1100 observed two vessels enter O SHIYA from the south. 1300 a medium sized freighter about 3000 tons painted a light gray passed up coast enroute Kobe close to the beach. Unable to get within torpedo range. From observations today I believe some shipping is being routed to south and west of ICHIE SAKI. 2000 surfaced and patrolled across Kii during the night. Again was trailed by sampan. Too close to beach to use gun on sampan, so speeded up and proceeded to the westward.

: 16 Oct.
Patrolling in vicinity of IUROTO SAKI. 1000 Sighted smoke rounding IUROTO. Commenced approach but discontinued at when vessel turned out to be a small one of about 500 tons similar to minecargo. During this approach a patrol boat of about 1000 tons passed about 3000 yards to the south of us and went on around the point. During afternoon the visibility was poor. Intermittent rain and seas picked up from SE. 2000 Surfaced and headed towards SHIONO IZAKI.

: 17 Oct.
Submerged and closed coast between ICHIE SAKI and SHIONO IZAKI. No shipping sighted. Weather rough. Visibility good. 2000 Surfaced and patrolled off the coast.

: 18 Oct.
Submerged and closed coast south of ICHIE SAKI. No shipping sighted. Visibility good. 1445 Sighted a patrol vessel with numbers on the bow which came out from ICHIE SAKI and then headed off to the north towards Kobo.

-8-

— page 19 —
19 Oct. - Patrolling in center of Kii on line between MUROTO SAKI and ICHIE SAKI. 2000 Surfaced, and proceeded on southerly course. 2100 Sighted ship ahead. Submerged and commenced approach. Target: zigged away twice and we were never able to close range under 2500 yards. Estimated speed 12 knots. Identified target as 1000 ton patrol boat. Did not surface and attempt to gain position ahead, due to proximity of beach and excellent visibility. Also thought some larger traffic would be along this traffic lane since there was a patrol boat in the area.

20 Oct. - Closed the coast in vicinity of MUROTO SAKI. Many sampans sighted but no shipping large enough to torpedo. Patrolled south of MUROTO SAKI during night. Bright full moon all night made close in-shore work impractical.

21 Oct. - Patrolling in vicinity of ASIZURI SAKI. Sighted several fishing sampans during the day. 1400 sighted type 98 light bomber circling around over us. No finally hauled off towards MUROTO SAKI. 2000 Surfaced with sampans on both bows and quarters. Patrolled traffic along between ASIZURI and MUROTO SAKI. Full moon all night.

22 Oct. - Patrolling SE of MUROTO SAKI. Nothing sighted.

23 Oct. - Patrolling about 10 miles south of ICHIE SAKI. Sea rough. 1444 Sighted 1 small freighter and 1 large freighter on southerly course estimated speed 12 knots, zig-zagging. 1501 Fired two torpedoes at larger freighter at 650 yards range. Two hits. One forward and one aft. This vessel had a five inch gun forward and aft. Smaller vessel had gun aft. Target started to sink rapidly and when last sighted his decks were awash. Swept the horizon for escorts and then observed action of smaller freighter. He fired his gun once and headed back for the beach. In about three minutes when I again searched for target, the target had disappeared. Due to rough sea it was necessary to use 4 knots to stay at periscope depth for any time which left considerable periscope wake and since we were

— page 20 —
23 Oct. (Cont'd)
only about ten miles from the airfield by SHINO
MISAKI we stayed at 150 feet for 2 hours on a
SW course. Several distant depth charges heard
during the afternoon. Smaller freighter was
about 2000 yards ahead of larger freighter. I
did not attempt to torpedo this vessel first
since I was afraid the larger one would escape
when I fired at the smaller one. Target similar
in appearance to SANKO MARU. 5000 gross tons.
Painted dark gray. 1900 surfaced. Small
freighter about 2500 tons.

24 Oct. - Left area. Proceeding towards HACHIJO SHIMA.
0030 I. 0400 Submerged. 1145 When about 60 miles SE
of SHINO MISAKI sighted. 6ft.

— page 22 —
1. Weather
1. Weather in the area was excellent. On the return trip heavy seas from E to SE were encountered from 24 Oct. to 31 October.

II. TIDAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Average set offshore in Japan stream was 1.5 knots, 120°T. Set inside the Kii and close to shore opens upon the tide.

IV. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
1. HIGH SALT burning with irregular visibility with following characteristics - flash every 30 seconds.
2. JUROTO ZAKI burning at prescribed visibility showing white flash every 20 seconds.
3. Steady bright light on shore to 17° of JUROTO ZAKI.
4. Steady white light on eastern tip of ASIJUN ZAKI.

V. CONTACTS
See tabulated list appended.

-12- ENGLISH (A)

— page 26 —
10 miles S Patrol 8000 Var. 12
21: 10 miles S Patrol 8000 Var. 12
23: 10 miles S Large 6500 1600 12
24: 60 miles SE Freighter 6000 1600 12
27: 33-43 N. Trawler 10,000 200 8
28: 33-36 N. Trawler 10,000 100 8
25 Sept. 20 miles DD. 8,000 240 15-18
2231 I. south SHIOYO
: 15-18

No attempt has been made to enumerate the sampans sighted since they were so numerous. Day and night they were always in the vicinity of IUROTO SAKI and ASHIZUMI SAKI. During the night they were along the coast between SHIOYO SAKI and IUROTO SAKI, but not during the day.

-16-

— page 28 —
2000 yards, at 20 minutes later the first depth charge was dropped, followed by one double and six single charges. All charges were astern and were from an estimated 150 yards to 500 yards.

We came to a 3D course and ran silently at 300 feet at 60 RPM.

Echo ringing continued for approximately three hours at which time our sound heads housec completely.

We surfaced at 2230 and retired to the southern part of the area. Upon surfacing we sighted a DD on our starboard beam which passed quickly out of sight on a 3D course. Estimated speed 15-10 knots. Distance 4 miles.

3. On 1 October we had seen 2 seaplanes patrolling the coast as well as 1 DD and two patrol boats. 1500 feet torpedoed and sank a freighter close in to the beach. Nearest patrol was about 3-4000 yards distant. We were in a weather course. At 1515 came two depth charges fired by the destroyer. At 1530 we had a plane since no scares were heard. At 1530 depth charges commenced and continued until 1737. A total of 56 depth charges being dropped at an estimated distance of from 150-600 yards. All charges seemed to be astern and above us. At 1704, heard no scares but received a pattern of nine depth charges which seemed larger and deeper than the rest. During this depth charging no pinching was heard, but five different patrol vessels were heard by sound.

We changed course to keep patrols astern and they finally drew away to the south. At 18/5 joining was heard astern. 2000 Surfaced and retired to southern part of area to repair lcaks and loose superstructure. Lcaks showed up in numerous cables thru the hull especially in the control room. Degaussing cables were the worst. Several plates in the superstructure in way of the engine rooms were jarred loose. Several light bulbs were broken in the boat and cork and paint jarred off the bulkheads but nothing serious developed from the depth charging.

— page 29 —
U.S.S. KINGFISHER - Report of First War Patrol.

PART VIII - ENEMY A/S MEASURES (Cont'd)

4. It is submitted that the presence of air patrols, numerous small boat patrols, and the smooth water obtaining in close to the beach between ICHIE SAKI and SHIONO MISAKI make a successful approach in this area. somewhat of a problem at times.

PART IX - ENEMY MINE SWEEPING

On two occasions, a small vessel was sighted in the vicinity of EUROTO SAKI which was similar in appearance to a small coastal mine sweep, but this vessel was not engaged in sweeping.

PART X - MAJOR DEFECTS

The operation of the SD was entirely unreliable. Before leaving Pearl it was operating satisfactorily but one day out of Midway, a double pulse developed on the screen, which the radio technician was never able to eliminate. e were never able to pick up land (high peaks) at a range of 10 miles or a large Japanese bomber at 3 miles, altitude 1000 feet.

The SD was unsatisfactory in operation. Even at a range of 1000 yards on a medium freighter we were unable to register any "pips". During the patrol one pip was had on a sampan (50 tons) at a range of 1200 yards and lost at range of 1600 yards.

It is believed that the depth charging experienced by this vessel may account in part for the faulty operation of the SD.

PART XI - RADIO RECEPTION

Satisfactory. Unable to copy on the coil at any depth below 52 feet in the area. Considerable interference on 8470 Kcs. Attempted to clear message to NPM on night of 28 October on 8470 Kcs and 12,705 Kcs, but unable to, due to heavy interference on these frequencies.

Last despatch sent: 311030

Last despatch received: 020222

- 19 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 31 —
1. Prior to patrol opened and cleared all main engine outboard exhaust valves, BuShips Plan SS228-41-0259. - Varying amount of saltcaste from little to about 1/4 inch thick was removed from the forward bulkhead of the valve box surrounding outboard exhaust valve knife edge. Experience to date indicates that in this type valve sufficient salt scalo forms on the forward bulkhead after 250 to 300 hours operation to hold the rubber seat off the knife edge, causing a leak in the outboard exhaust valve. It is recommended that submarines having rubber sealed dowed type outboard exhaust valves open and clean them just prior to clearing their last port on patrol. Ten men can do it in three hours or less, using care not to damage gaskots.

Underway prior to this time exhaust valve leaks from the above cause had been stopped by the following means: 1)th engine hot, dive for about 15 minutes, then surface and operate valve hydraulically about 10 times quickly. Quick cooling followed by hammering at valve knocks most of salt loose from bulkhead, allowing valve to seat.

No leaks of this type developed during patrol

2. Trim at deep submergence.

All deep dives were made off the coast between Ichiyo Saki and Shiono Misaki. Two density layers were encountered, one at about 120 feet requiring addition of about 2000 lb. wel_ht to get through and one at 150 feet requiring about 4000 lb. additional weight to penetrate.

Each morning boat was trimmed with 4000 lb. in negative to provide a good seal. Pressure in negative was then vented off to 20 lb. This pressure sufficiently balanced sea pressure to make it possible to open negative flood in either hand or power as deep as 100 feet. 10 lb. pressure was carried in No. 2 & 3 auxiliary to change fore and aft trim by blowing without noise. Trim pump could not be used in vicinity of enemy because of noise that can only be eliminated by change of design.

- 21 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 33 —
3. The performance of duty of all officers and men was of the highest order. Three cases of nervous tension was noted from the depth charge attacks.

4. This area offers excellent possibilities close inshore for magnetic mining.

5. J.R. Radar on Patrol Run.

Oct. 2 - The sweep was lost entirely, that is, no other trace other than a short line that extended for about 1 inch on the scope at the far left hand side appeared. Trouble was assumed to be in the sweep amplifiers. A thorough check of the circuit was made but no trouble found by resistance measurements. By sheer accident, the neon regulator lamps were removed. IP4 crumpled up upon being removed although the glass showed no sign of crack or fissure. Then replaced the sweep was normal. (On 1 Oct. we had suffered a death charge attack lasting about four hours).

Oct. 3 - Began to notice loss of sensitivity. Coax line (IP4) was checked - not there. It amplifier's grid video and deflection video were checked and found to be normal, Servicing is greatly hampered due to the fact that the conning tower must remain in darkness and which makes any servicing by the dynamic method dangerous.

Oct. 4 - Removed 713 tube and replaced with a spare. Sensitivity was regained.

Oct. 5 - Picked up steamer on sound gear. Lade attack and although we were as clobse as one thought yards, no indication was visible.

Oct. 6 - Replaced converter unit with spare. Upon surfacing it was tuned by the simple expedient of watching the length of the transmitted pulse on the scope and the abruptness of tuning. Then this was completed and the transmitter was tuned for maximum power output.

— page 34 —
23 Oct - 29 Oct

Replaced the 722A thyratron in the Transmitter-Receiver Unit because of jitter on the section. This remedied the trouble. To catch it has been found that this jitter capacity very regularly when this tube (the thyratron) has 200 hours upon it.

29 Oct - Then the main power switch was thrown to start the equipment, a piping noise was heard within the range-Indicator unit. The scope lighted brightly for a second and then went dead. The 991.1/90 lights did not light. It was assumed that the high-voltage rectifier (22x2) in the unit was burnt out. Upon replacement this was found to be the trouble.

— page 35 —
1. The parts of the equipment are too closely packed within their several chassis for quick accessibility and servicing. As much as two hours has been wasted in removing one unit to get at another. To date, the various and numerous breakdowns would suggest a "Broadboard" layout.

2. The Vacuum Tubes of the equipment seem to be able to withstand a depth charge attack of moderate intensity but the RF sections can by no means be included under that category. It seems advisable that the RF sections, comprising the tuners A and B, the T.L. Box, and the magnetron, be mounted on a separate chassis which should be removable and easily accessible.

3. Some method of dynamic servicing should be prepared for the converter unit and information and material disseminated to the operating submarines.

-25-

— page 36 —
10/16-3(5)/ SUBLIME FORCE, PACIFIC FILET
Serial 0126

Cargo of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
January 31, 1943.

CO. SUBPLAN REPORT NO. 132
U.S. KINGFISH - SECOND AIR HITOT.
From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To: Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS234) - Report of Second War Patrol.

Enclosure:
(A) Subject patrol report.
(B) CSD 102 Conf. Litr. FB5-102/A4-3, Serial 07 of January 29, 1943.
(C) CSS 4 Conf. Litr. FB5-4/A16-3, Serial 019 of January 30, 1943.

1. The KINGFISH second war patrol was conducted from 1 November 26, 1942, to January 23, 1943. Twenty-five days of the total period of fifty-eight days were spent in the patrol area.

2. While the torpedo performance was disappointing, 3 hits out of 22 torpedoes fired, for a score of 13.6%, the commanding officer is to be commended for a most aggressive patrol.

3. "Spreads" used were generally insufficient. On December 7, only half the target length was covered by three torpedoes at range 2000, and less than one-fifth the target length was covered by two torpedoes at range 1400. On December 8, the 3 torpedoes covered less than half the target length, range 1200.

4. The precautions and apparently other magnetic cylinder failures may have been caused by the fact that the depth and explorer mechanisms had not been fitted with the latest alterations.

5. Recent and present practice is to keep each commanding officer informed of friendly submarines in adjacent patrol areas.

6. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew are congratulated on inflicting the following damage on the enemy:

DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, 0FNAVINST 5510.16
DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, 0FNAVINST 5510.16
DECL

— page 37 —
12-10/-16-3(5)/ SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLIGHT  Ps (12)
Serial 0126
COMPLIMENTAL
CO. SUPPLIC PATROL REPORT 10. 132
U.S.S. KINGFISH - SECOND WAR PATROL.
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH (35234) - Report of Second War Patrol.

SUIK
12-7-42 - 1 Frigther 7,064 tons
12-28-42 - 1 Frigther 6,581 tons
1-6-43 - 1 Trawler 200 tons
1-7-43 - 1 Trawler 200 tons
Total 14,045 tons

J. H. BRON, Jr., Acting.

DISTRIBUTION
(11-43)
List III: SS.
Special:
PL(5), EN3(5), Z1(5),
Consubstant (2), X3(1),
Consubswespace (2),
Subschool, N.L. (2).

E.R. SWIDBURNE,
Flag Secretary.

— page 38 —
1942 from First War Patrol.
Commenced refit on November 4, 1942, by Submarine Base, Midway.
Completed on November 24, 1942, 20 mm gun installed. Ship
not departed and no sound test conducted. No training period.
Readiness for sea on November 25, 1942. Unable to clear harbor
on November 25, 1942, due to heavy seas and inability to clear
net from channel.

Nov. 26, '42.
1000(y) - Underway for patrol area with air and surface escort.
Sea's heavy from West. If heavy seas continue will
have to use three engine speed to arrive morning of
the fourth in special patrol area.

Nov. 28 - During the night attempted to transmit dispatch to
C.T.F. 7. Unable to clear message. Tried for about
one hour at same time making radical changes of course.
4235, 8470, 12705 Kcs. Unable to raise NPM.

Nov. 29
1000 L. - Sighted heavy bomber (Japanese) distance 4 miles.
Dived for one hour. Position 505 miles bearing 270°
from Midway. Approximately same area in which GUARD-
FISH was bombed. Decided to make no further attempts
to clear dispatch.

Dec. 4-5 - Surface patrol in special area. Nothing sighted.
Visibility and weather were excellent.

Dec. 5
1800 I - Enroute area.
2015 I - Lighted sampan sighted twenty miles south of CHICHI
JIMA (Bonin Islands). I did not attack with deck gun
since (1) it looked too much like a "come on", (2)
did not wish to disclose presence in a good traffic
line, (3) situation very similar to one encountered
by TROUT in the BONINS on her second war patrol.

-1- ENGLISH (A)

— page 39 —
0530 I - Submerged for patrol.
: 0645 I - Sighted freighter to the south and started approach.
The freighter made one complete circle then headed on a southerly course, making radical zigs at speed
11-12 knots. Unable to close range under 6,000 yards.
0715 Sound reported propellar sounds close aboard.
Nothing in sight but the freighter. Freighter was
similar to TATU KAII MARU, pace 71 ONI 208-J.

: 0815 I - Surfaced to gain position ahead of freighter. This
will take fuel, but target is heavily loaded and headed south. Target's base course about 170° and he is
making large zigs.

: 1510 I - Submerged for attack.
: 1611 I - Fired 3 torpedoes at range of 2000 yards, 110 track,
gyro angle 4,6, 13° right. Depth setting 15 feet.
T.D.C. checked apod. Saw tracks of two torpedoes
appear to pass close to storm of target. Target did
not manoeuvre to avoid until torpedoes crossed track.
Three misses. Latitude 23-42 N., Longitude 138-31-30
E. 1616 Two torpedo explosions. Estimated target
draft 25 feet.

: 1727 I - Surfaced and resumed chase.

: 1936 I - Fired one torpedo, 180 track, range 1200 yards, zero
gyro angle. Depth 6 feet. Torpedo ran normally but
exploded prematurely in 30 seconds. Believe this
would have been a hit but for promature. Submerged
for 10 minutes as he was manning his deck gun. Surfaced and resumed chase. No more 180° track angles.

: 2103 I - Fired 2 torpedoes, 110° starboard track, range 1400
yards. Depth setting 6 feet. Two hits under after
well dock. Target was immediately enveloped in flames
about 200 feet high except for about 50 feet of his
forecastle. 2105 Target got off one salvo from deck
gun forward. I submerged to 50 feet and allowed all
hands to view burning and sinking target through periscope.

: 2109-2130-Heavy and light explosions from sinking ship.
: 2130 - Target sank with a last heavy explosion.
I am certain this freighter was loaded with gasoline
from the appearance of the flames.

- 21
- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 40 —
2130 - Surfeoed and cleared area.
: 2300 - Flames still visible where target sank. | attitude 23-59 N., Length 138-13W. SJ Radar was invaluable during these two approaches, tracking him in from 11,000 yards. We also DFed. target continually on 500 Kcs. The officers of the desk, lieutenant H.F. MILLER, U.S.N., made the last approach under the supervision of the Commanding Officer, and executed an excellent attack. Target similar to TATU KINA MARU, cross tonnage, 7065 tons.

Dec. 8 - Enroute area.
: 1315 I- Submerged for training and routine of torpedoes.
: 1600 I- Sighted two freighter on southerly course estimated speed 14 knots.
: 1620 I- Fired 3 torpedoes, gyro angles 358°, range 1200 yards, 800 port track, at one freighter. Targets zigged towards KINGFISH two minutes before firing putting us close aboard nearest freighter. Forty seconds after firing first torpedo, sound man reported a dull thud on bearing of target. Two mines astern. After firing I attempted a set up on the other freighter with the stern tubes. On raising the periscope, he was 200 yards away and heading for us with small rammed. Necessary to use negative since diving officer was having trouble getting boat deeper than periscope depth. As soon as freighters passed over us, came to periscope depth but range was then 2000 yards with 180° track. Did not fire. Targets were lightly loaded and the few members of crew I observed were in white coveralls. Surfaced when range was 10,000 yards and gave chase at 20 knots for 2 hours. Radar ranges were good but we were never able to close range under 9,500 yards.

1820 I - Sighted large vessel on northerly course on port bow, Range 10,000 yards by Radar. Thought this was one of targets doubling back, so gave chase at 20 knots for one hour. We lost distance on this one.

: 2000 I - Scoured from chase. Targets were flush deck type, with M.K.F.K.M. |.

— page 41 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Second War Patrol.

---

**Dialogs were matched at time of firing. Ran problem again on TDC with normal results. Firecontrol man had run test on TDC and regulator indicator about four hours previous to attack and test was normal. Latitude 23-54 N., Longitude 136-00 E. On running problem over for third time, the contacts on the regulator stuck in the "right" position. I am convinced that the misses were due to personnel error, and that the pointers were not matched when we fired the last two torpedoes. On subsequent attacks the angles were checked periodically and just before firing by telephone. The TDC operator stated that the overload lights for the regulator did not flash on when and if the regulator relay stuck.

Dec. 9 - Surface patrol. Nothing sighted. 1800 resumed course for patrol area.

Dec.10 - Uneventful training dive and drills.

Dec.11 - Entered area. Changed course to pass between MIYAKO JIMA and OKINAWA JIMA. This is shortest route to good hunting, will cover traffic lane to northern ports thru BASHI Channel and also will save fuel.

Dec.12 - Surface patrol on course 270° standing towards HOKO SHO. No navigational fix for two days due to clouds. Approximate location by fathometer.

Dec.13 - Submerged patrol east of HOKO SHO. Nothing sighted. Cloudy weather but road visibility.

Dec.14. - Submerged 7 miles east of HOKO SHO. 1215 H Sighted 5000 ton freighter on course 070°, speed 10, range 14000 yards, angle on bow 70° port. Came to normal approach course at high speed, but was unable to close range under 5000 yards. Did not surface and chase since he would be in next area before nightfall. Plan to spend one more day here and then close PUKI KAKU. Encountered northerly set of about 3 knots during the day. 1830 Surfaced and patrolled 100 fathoms curve from MINKO SHO towards SENTO SHO.

---

**PENCILWORK (A)**

— page 42 —
15 - Submerged patrol off MENKA SHO on 100 fathom curve.
No: contacts, 1830 H Surfaced and passed between HOKO SHO and MENKA SHO standing towards PUKI KAKU.
Sighted several lighted scampans during night but did not attack due to possibility of disclosing our presence.

: 16 - Submerged 10 miles north of PUKI KAKU for patrol.
Intended to close PUKI KAKU to about 4 miles, but encountered strong easterly set of about 3-4 knots, so came to 270° to gain position where GROWLER had two good contacts. 1039 H Sighted steamer rounding PUKI KAKU southbound, bearing 1560 T, angle on bow 900 starboard, range 12,000 yards. Estimated speed 12 knots. 1122 H Sighted Patrol vessel (trawler type) bearing 1030 T standing towards KIRUN. 1230 Several fishing scampans close aboard. Crew member of one scampan appeared to be a negro. 1543 H Sighted light bomber on northerly course, altitude 1000 feet. From currents experienced today and reports of FINBACK on currents in immediate vicinity of PUKI KAKU decided not to attempt to close PUKI KAKU too close. 1830 H Surfaced and patrolled on southerly course along coast.

: 17 - Submerged and closed coast to 1.5 miles in vicinity of PUKASI Point Light. 0700 Sighted steamer of about 3000 tons. Closed to 600 yards and identified as hospital ship, properly marked, on northerly course. Similar to RYUKO MARU. 0905 Sighted freighter standing up coast, angle on bow zero, range 12,000 yards. Commenced approach. Freighter similar to KISO MARU, lightly loaded,4000 tons, speed 8 knots.

: 17 - 0949 Fired # 7 tube, gyro 174, range 1200 yards. Ten seconds later fired # 8 tube, 171 gyro. First torpedo premature at 18 seconds, second at 25 seconds after firing. Target commenced firing both fore and aft guns. 0953 Fired # 9 tube, 170 gyro, range 1500 yards, 900 starboard track. Miss. Swing ship to close and bring bow tubes to bear. Target headed towards beach, range 2000 yards, track 160° port. Could not close and target stood off to northward towards KIRUN. Tubes were made ready 3 minutes before firing. The set up checked, good on TDC for thirty minutes. Sea moderate to rough, depth setting 6 feet. Estimated draft of target 12 feet. Opened out from beach since I believed enemy might route traffic off shore after attack. Nothing sighted during rest of day. 1830 H Surfaced and stood towards AMOY.

- 5 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 45 —
0035 H - (Cont'd)
on the TDC checked good. The Commanding Officer feels that he committed a serious error in not closing to a more decisive range before firing even tho he believed the target was running his deck gun. Having decided on a surface attack, the range should have been closed to a shorter range before firing. This mistake will not be repeated in the future. Size of targets about 4,000 tons. Speed nine knots. Course 350°. Track angle 120° port. Gyro angle zero. Range 2400 yards. Depth setting: 6 feet. Last torpedo was fired with zero gyro angle, range 3000 yards, speed estimate of 8 knots, 110° port track. Miss astern. Targets did not appear to maneuver to avoid until after wake of torpedo crossed track.

A subsequent fix showed a current of 3 knots in a northerly direction in this area during this time.

Doc. 22-23-
Submerged patrol along each coast of Formosa. Weather clear. Seas force 6 from North. Nothing sighted. Excellent visibility.

Doc. 24-
Surface patrol on 100 fathom curve, 15-20 miles east of HOKA SHO ISLAND. 1025 Submerged on radar contact. Sky overcast. Plane not sighted. 1300 Surfaced. 1307 Submerged upon sighting a MIRUSISHI BOMBER (twin engine) altitude 1000 feet, distance 4 miles, course 250°T. 1400 just prior to surfacing sighted similar bomber circling about three miles from our position. Altitude 750 feet. Sky overcast, but visibility good. Decided to remain submerged for remainder of day. 1830 H Surfaced and stood towards PAKUSA POINT. Sighted several 11th and 11thth patrol vessels during the night which were avoided.

Doc. 25-
Submerged patrol 2-3 miles off PAKUSA POINT LIGHT. 1555 H Sighted and made approach on small vessel of about 300 tons, which appeared to be a small mine sweep or patrol vessel with one run forward. Closed range to 1500 yards but did not fire as it was considered target was too small for torpedo. Target was in close to the beach in 8-10 fathoms of water. Course 230°, speed 12 knots. 1900 H Surfaced and opened out from coast to out in battery charge. 2025 Sighted and worked around darkened patrol vessel, which looked like a sub chaser. During night seas picked up to condition 6 or 7.

-8- WINGLOUMP (A)

— page 46 —
2022 H. Radar contact at 9,500 yards, bearing 215°T. Obtained a good set up on T.D.T. Target on steady course 210°T, speed 85 knots. Ranges from Radar were excellent. 2110 Slowed to 10 knots, made tubes ready. 2114 Fired 3 torpedoes from foryard tubes, 1°D divergent spread, range 1150 yards, 90° starboard track, gyro anriles 3°, 9°, 12°. 10 second firing interval, depth setting 6 feet. Saw wake of one torpedo for about 100 yards. Sound heard no torpedoes running. T. torpedoman in forward room reported they sounded normal leaving tube. No explosions heard. Target did not change course. Gained position ahead of target, stopped and kicked ahead on motors to present stern to target and small silhouette as possible. At range of about 1200 yards target changed course to port presenting a 90° starboard angle on bow. 2201 Fired 3 torpedoes with 1° degree divergent spread, from stern tubes, range 1150 yards, turned speed 85 knots, depth setting zero. Wnks were plainly visible about half way to target. All looked good. Sound tracked torpedoes until first one hit. Only one explosion heard which hit just aft of bridge. Japs abandoned ship after sending out position on 500 Kcs. Unable to man his gun aft since it is under water. Remained in vicinity on surface until target sank with load explosion at 2233 H. Own speed at time of firing, 6 knots, track angle 100° starboard. Target similar to TALBUN MARU

- 9 -

ENCLOSURE (1)

— page 47 —
206, ONI 208-J. Gross tonnage 6581 tons. Target appeared to be about 1/2 loaded estimated draft 16 feet.

The Commanding Officer is convinced that the first 3 torpedoes either ran deep and under the target not exploding, or that they sank before reaching the target. The set up on the TMC checked too well for all of the first three torpedoes to have missed, provided they made a normal run. Also since the first torpedo of the second salvo hit, I am at loss to explain why at least one of the wing torpedoes did not hit with the small spread used. 2240 Hononise. During run down coast several small lighted vessels were sighted. These lights were extinguished when the torpedo explosion occurred. Latitude 24-46 N., Longitude 120-40 E.

Dec. 29 - Surface and submerged patrol in vicinity of TURNABOUT LIGHT. During afternoon and night closed HOKA SHO. Sighted several 11lighted patrols during the night.

Dec. 30 - Submerged patrol 5 miles east of MENKA SHO on 100 fathom curve. 0803 Sighted two small patrol vessels (300 tons), patrolling in vicinity of MENKA SHO. They stood down towards KIRUN about noon and passed from sight. 1245 H Made approach and fired one torpedo from stern tube at target similar to 'PEKING' M'KU gross tonnage 2289 tons, page 34 ONI 208-J. Target course 040°T, range 700 yards, gyro angle 194, target speed 75 knots, depth setting 6 feet. Estimate target draft 12 feet. Seen was moderate to rough, and with existing instructions 6 feet was minimum depth setting. I believe torpedo ran under target and did not explode. Tried to ping a range without success. The set up checked well and I believe my estimates were accurate. Unable to observe target closely after firing as a type 97 heavy bomber was sighted heading towards target shortly after firing. Target apparently did not see torpedo track, as he made no increase of speed. 1420 H Doubtful plane sighting. 1740 H Surfaced and gave chase at full speed, to try deck gun on target. 1840 H Slowed and gave up chase since seas were becoming too rough to use deck gun.

- 10 -
- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 48 —
206, ONI 208-J. Gross tonnage 6581 tons. Target appeared to be about 1/2 loaded estimated draft 16 feet.

The Commanding Officer is convinced that the first 3 torpedoes either ran deep and under the target not exploding, or that they sank before reaching the target. The set up on the TMC checked too well for all of the first three torpedoes to have missed, provided they made a normal run. Also since the first torpedo of the second salvo hit, I am at loss to explain why it least one of the wing torpedoes did not hit with the small spread used. 2240 Moonrise. During run down cost several small lathed vessels were sighted. These lights were extinguished when the torpedo explosion occurred. Latitude 24-46 N., Longitude 120-40 E.

Dec. 29 - Surface and submerged patrol in vicinity of TURNABOUT LIGHT. During afternoon and night closed HOKA SHO. Sighted several 11inch patrols during the night.

Dec. 30 - Submerged patrol 5 miles east of JENKINS SHO on 100 fathom curve. 0803 Sighted two small patrol vessels (300 tons), patrolling in vicinity of JENKINS SHO. They stood down two rrs KIRUN about noon and passed from sight. 1245 H made approach and fired one torpedo from stern tube at target similar to PEKING MOU gross tonnage 2289 tons, page 34 ONI 208-J. Target course 040°T, range 700 yards, gyro angle 194, target speed 71 knots, depth setting 6 feet. Estimated target draft 12 feet. Sea was moderate to rough, and with existing instructions 6 feet was minimum depth setting. I believe torpedo ran under target and did not explode. Tried to ping a range without success. The set up checked well and I believe my estimates were accurate. Unable to observe target closely after firing as a type 97 heavy bomber was sighted heading towards target shortly after firing. Target apparently did not see torpedo track, as he made no increase of speed. 1420 H Doubtful plane sighting. 1740 H Surfaced and gave chase at full speed, to try deck gun on target. 1840 H Slowed and gave up chase since sea were becoming too rough to use deck gun.

- 10 -
- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 49 —
U.S.S. KINGFISHER - Report of Second War Patrol.

Dec. 31
Jan. 1
Jan. 2-3
Jan. 4-5
Jan. 5
Jan. 6
2200 H
Jan. 7
1730 I

Submerged patrol and night surface patrol east of MENKA SHO. Decided to stay in. This position since I do not believe we were sighted during the attack on 30 December, and it appears to be a good traffic lane. However, no targets sighted.

Surface patrol on 100 fathom curve between MENKA SHO and SENTO SHOSHO. Sons too rough for efficient periscope patrol. 1150 H Sighted plane, OSAKA'97, Reconnaissance bomber evidently patrolling near. Submerged for one hour.

Surface patrol towards eastern edge of area.

Departed area in accordance with operation order.

During night attempted to send dispatch to Censubpac that we were clear of area; Attempted for one hour to raise NPM on 4235, 8470, 12705 Kcs. No results. Finally, sent dispatch to Censubpac with operation order. He is sighted light vessel evidently fishing with nets out. Bright fishing lights and he appears fair size. Space (1) the night is dark, (2) we have only open sights, (3) no idea if vessel is armed (4) we are in a good traffic lane - decided to patrol during the night in the vicinity, closing trawler, submerged at daylight before attempting destruction with deck gun and 20 nm. 0545 I submerged and closed target. He is a diesel trawler of about 200 tons. Crew of about 12 men with a soldier armed with a rifle in the pilot house. 0721 Made battle surface and sank trawler with 3", 20 nm, and BNRs. Approximately 20 hits with 3". 20 nm very effective at close range. The armed soldier fired several shots at us before we opened fire. At our first salvo the Japs disappeared below decks. Put bow against trawler to set her afire with oily rags, but there was insufficient decking above water to sustain the fire. No survivors. Target sank as we were leaving vicinity.

Sighted sighted trawler at twilight. Dammed gun stations and closed at high speed. 1755 Opened fire at 2000 yards range and obtained direct hit with 3" in pilot house. It was now becoming dark. Closed to point.

— page 50 —
1730 I (Cont'd)
blank range and raked him for one hour with 3", 20 mm, and BARS. Left him with decks awash and slowly sinking. No survivors. This vessel was a diesel trawler of 200 tons, similar to first one but appeared much newer and had a longer clipper bow. With open sights and the present ammunition for the 3" gun, hits at night, except at point blank range, are a matter of luck. Only when target was illuminated by 20 nm fire were we able to rest in effective 3" hits. Every attempt was made by this vessel to obtain telescopic sights for the 3" gun prior to leaving the east coast, but without results.

Jan. 10-11- Surface patrol in special-n area. No contacts. Left special area at dark, night of January 11th. Enroute Midway at one on one speed to allow for increased fuel in case weather deteriorates for this.

Jan. 12- Increased speed to 13 knots on two main on-ones. Sea force 3-4 from SW.

Jan. 15- 2100 L - Attempted to send dispatch to CTF 7 via NPM regarding time of arrival Midway. No results for 30 minutes on 4235, 8470, 12,705 Kcs. NPG took dispatch on 4235 Kcs. for relay to NPM. 161000 dispatch.

Jan. 16 0600 L - Attempted to send correction to dispatch 161000 as mistake had been made in enciphering. Unable to raise NPM or NPS. Midway took dispatch on 4265 for relay. Dispatch 161900.

Jan. 18 084L Y - Sighted plane escort. 1042 Y - Moored outboard of the POPPOT at Midway. Took aircard 26,581 gallons fuel.

Jan. 19 0800 Y - Underway from Midway with air escort.

Jan. 20- 1700 Y - Sighted and exchanged signals with friendly tanker and escort vessel. Conducted battery discharges.

- 12 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 51 —
1000 X. SIGHTED PBY plane to the North on Vesterly course, distance 10 miles, altitude 1500 feet.

: 0825 X. Exchanged recognition signals with PBY plane. Conducted battery discharge.

: 0650 X. Exchanged calls with escort and proceeded to Pearl in company with PC-478.

PART II - WEATHER

1. Weather: In the area for this time of the year was good. Only during five days in the area did heavy seas prevent efficient periscope patrol. Wind from NW except during local rain squalls. Frequent haze over Formosa.

PART III - TIDAL INFORMATION

Tidal information agrees in general with that indicated on the charts and in the Asiatic Pilot.

Strong currents were encountered inshore making depth control difficult. In the vicinity of PUKI KAKU the currents were swift and at times variable and it is doubtful if torpedoes approaches in this vicinity would be successful.

Off PUKASI Point currents up to 3 knots were experienced.

PART IV - NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

All navigational lights on the northern port of Formosa were burning with the usual characteristics. On the southern port only GOARAM PII was burning. I believe the Japanese use irregular lights on the boat to navigate this area at night since numerous steady lights were sighted which could be used for that purpose. Also the samphis turned their lights off and on at intervals and these could possibly be used for navigational purposes.

-13- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 58 —
1. The set up checked good on this approach and I believe our estimates were accurate. Two of torpedoes were appeared to cross just astern of target, but at a range of 2000 yards this is difficult to judge.
2. The first torpedo looked like a sure hit, but for the premature explosion. The second two torpedoes hit the target. Target sank in 27 minutes. Exploder # 5396.
3. The first torpedo should have hit the target. Sound man reported a dull thud 40 seconds after firing which may have been torpedo hitting target and failing to explode. Other two torpedoes missed astern due to personnel error.
4. The first two torpedoes were premature at 18 seconds and 25 seconds. Take of third torpedo was not seen. The data on this approach was good and the TDC checked closely.
5. The data for this approach was excellent. Radar ranges checked and TDC checked with bearings from bridge. Sound did not hear torpedoes run. The wake of one torpedo was visible for about 100 yards, but than disappeared. Other two torpedoes fired were easy to follow. Sound tried checked these torpedoes to target.
6. A range and bearing was entered in TDC about 7 seconds before firing. I believe this torpedo ran under target and did not explode as a miss would be unlikely at this range.
7. Excessive range was the primary reason for the misses on this approach.

Strong and varicble currents are encountered in this area and undoubtedly have a great deal of effect on the torpedo performance.

— page 59 —
1. There seems to be a scarcity of large A/S vessels in the Kirun area. Small patrol vessels were always encountered at night in the vicinity of HOKA SHO and MENKA SHO but they were not aggressive. Probably they were stationed to spot the submarine's position as several times we heard transmission on 500 kcs, just after sighting these small patrols. However, we were never able to definitely establish this fact conclusively.

2. The same AAA signals as reported by FINBACK were heard in the chase down west coast of Formosa on night of 28 December and the position sent out was correct.

3. Numerous lighted sampans were observed off the west coast of Formosa at night.

4. Anti-aircraft searchlight drill was observed each night we were in the vicinity of Formosa and appeared efficient as they seemed to have no trouble following the target plane which usually flew about 2000 feet above the peaks. The drills were held usually about 2100 zone time.

5. Several planes were sighted patrolling off MENKA SHO and PUKI KAKU evidently engaged in A/S patrol.

IX MINESWEEPER OPERATIONS

None observed.

X MAJOR DEFECTS

On November 13, 1942 Auxiliary generator was partially flooded with salt water by relief crew. Auxiliary generator drain valve had been left open. Both auxiliary engine and No. 2 Main engine were in use charging. Drains on No. 2 main engine circulating water pump and lub oil cooler had been left open, allowing bilges to flood. Water flowed up through auxiliary generator into sump below generator ventilation impeller, was picked up as a spray and distributed throughout generator.

Relief crew cleared generator. Ground reading upon commencing patrol 7 megohms. Shortly thereafter lower field coil insulation reading dropped to 50,000 ohms. Ships force worked moisture out of ventilation system by use of field coils for heating. In two weeks minimum ground reading had been raised to 23 megohms, where it remained while generator was being used.

— page 60 —
1943, auxiliary generator was started and put on propulsion. It was immediately stopped where inspection of generator showed lubrication oil was being sprayed through generator.

Investigation showed oil had been forced through packing ring from engine sump. About a quart of oil had been standing in generator sump below ventilator impellor when engine was started. This oil had previously been forced into generator when lub oil purifier return line had chattered open while main engine sump was being purified. Oil had completely filled auxiliary engine sump before it was neticed.

Job orders for installation of hand pump for generator sump similar to that installed on all generators of ALBACORE class submarines and for installation of sight ports in forward end of generators, being submitted this refit period.

Starboard Propeller Shaft.

Following depth charging on 1 October, 1942, propeller noise of own screws increased markedly. As first patrol progressed, vibration of starboard shaft became more marked and its stuffing box could not be kept tight. Examination upon arrival midway showed an eccentricity of .006 at inboard end of stuffing box as shaft was rotated.

This was not considered excessive. Midway did not possess proper stern tube packing, so a ring of flax packing was placed at inboard end of starboard stuffing tube to replace original packing which had frayed out. This appeared satisfactory on post refit trial dive.

At sea running at two engine speed, starboard shaft was found to draw 100 k.w. more load than the port shaft. Stuffing box remained tight and ran cold. A small amount of heat traveled along shaft indicating binding at outer end of stern tube or in strut bearing. Visual inspection from deck in clear water indicated no blade tips were damaged. Vibration was bad. Turn counts could be taken anywhere on the ship at surface speeds of 8 knots and above.

After two weeks of running, shaft had worn bearings into line. Both shafts took same load. Vibration, however, remained and is still excessive. Some wood bearings must be worn elliptical.

XI RADIO RECEPTION

Radio reception was complete except during the period 1900 to 2100 GCT, when much static and jamming of the frequencies was observed. At other times no trouble was experienced in copying the schedule.

22 ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 61 —
1. Sound conditions off TAKO were good.
2. Sound conditions off PUKI KAKU and PUKASI Point were very poor. During an approach on a hospital ship off PUKASI Point, attempted to get a good check on sound bearings. They were erratic and often off as much as 20-25 degrees. Same conditions prevailed off MENKA SHO on the 100 fathom curve. Very little success was had with echo ranging in these areas.
3. On 8 January, in the open sea, sound tracked in a 200 ton trawler and his bearings were excellent from 10,000 yards on in to close ranges.
4. I consider that very little dependence can be placed in the sound bearings during a submerged approach, north and west of Formosa. During one approach sound showed a large zig but an observation proved this to be incorrect. Sound bearings usually off as much as 15-20 degrees at 3000 yards range.

XIII HEALTH AND HEALTHABILITY
Excellent. Vitamin tablets taken by majority of crew and by all lookouts.

XIV
Miles steamed enroute to area 3030
Miles steamed from area 2920
Miles steamed in area 3570
Midway to Pearl 1200

- 23 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 62 —
9800 gal.

XV
Fuel Expended
---
FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING.
Torpedoes
Fuel
Provisions (days)
Fresh Water Personnel
2
8000
20
Unlimited
7

XVII
Patrol ended in accordance with time allowed on station by operation order.

XVIII REMARKS
1. The performance of the SJ Radar was encouraging. See attached report for details.
2. The need for telescopic sights for the 3-inch gun is stressed. The 20 mm is very effective at ranges below 1500 yards.
3. When possible, submerged patrolling was carried out at periscope depth bringing ship up to 56 feet for searching. Depth control is something of a problem due to currents and ground swells prevailing in the area.
4. It is recommended that a quiet type of trim pump and automatic by-pass valve for the main hydraulic system be installed when available.
5. It is submitted, that when practicable, information be furnished as to whether or not adjacent areas are occupied by our submarines.
6. The performance and devotion to duty of the officers and crew was commendable.

24 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 63 —
7. The Commanding Officer considers that the KINGFISH was given a most satisfactory overhaul by Midway. No effort was spared by the Commanding Officer of the Submarine Base, Midway, and the officers and men under his command to make our refit a satisfactory one; and our recreation period a happy one.

REPORT OF RADAR PERFORMANCE DURING 2ND PATROL OF USS KINGFISH

6 December 1942

SD Radar
During morning, crossing of another similar type radar was noticed and reported. This continued until the equipment was secured after sunset. Report of this crossing is as follows:

1. On 6 December 1942, upon starting the SD Radar, impulses were observed upon the 'scope as shown in figures A, B and C.

2. By varying the OSCILLATOR TUNING CONTROL it was found that on either side of the proper oscillator operation point, the pulse still beat through slightly although the received had lost the "plage" and noise"lines, This indicates that the operating frequency of the crossing radar was of the order of 114 Megacycles.

3. By changing the frequency of the IC motor generator which would change the pulsing rate of the equipment, it was found that the pulses became less recurrent as the frequency was decreased and more recurrent as increased. At 63 cycles, the pulses were approaching the locking in point. A fairly good estimation of the pulsing frequency would be 70 cycles.

4. In all cases, the observed pulse was found to be approximately 4 miles long on the 'scope. As the 'scope would show the pulse while it is in the air and the sweep is operating at half time (range out and back) then the pulse would be in the order of 6 micro-seconds long.

- 25 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 64 —
5. All pulses observed were of a nicely rounder character, rising quickly to 50% of the total height, then slowly to full value and falling off in the same manner. This was especially true of the pulses observed on the left hand portion of the 'scope which would tend to indicate that the equipment was keyed by the charging condenser - grid blocking method much the same as the SD equipment employs.

6. Similar types of radars were observed at various times as indicated by the radar log of this vessel. It is probable that some of these were of a directional type because of the fact that the pulses would not be seen for periods of as long as one minute, then they would occur ten or fifteen times and disappear until another cycle of operation commenced.

7. The analysis shows the following facts concerning the crossing radar:

   - Frequency: 114 Megacycles
   - Pulse Rate: 70 cycles (approx.)
   - Pulse Duration: 6 Microseconds
   - Keying: Definitely not electronic
   - Non Directional in most instances.

8. Under no circumstances would this crossing have impaired the usefulness of the SD Radar.

   - A: Observed at 6 miles.
   - B: Observed at 20 miles.
   - C: Observed at 36 miles.

7 December 1942
SD Radar

Interference as before was still noticed. Upon surfacing it was very evident. We continued "chase" on the surface.

— page 65 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Second War Patrol.

SJ Radar
Manned SJ right after sunset and was coached unto target by bridge. First picked up target at 11,000 yards. It was brought in intermittently until range had closed to 9,000 yards at which range it was never lost, until attack had been completed.

After surfacing, target was again picked up at 7,900 yards. It continued opening to 9,300 yards at which point the range started closing. No difficulty was experienced in giving accurate ranges during the entire successful attack.

8 December 1942

SD Radar
All morning noticed interference on SD Radar. Submerged after 1300. Sighted target around 1600. After surfacing (around sunset) interference was very strong on SD but not sufficient to bother operation. It is thought that this type interference is a positive indication of some vessel within 100 miles, the stronger the flashes, the closer the target. No Radar was seen on target.

SJ Radar
Coached unto target by bridge. Picked it up at 12,000 yards. Followed it down to about 10,000 yards at which point there was no difficulty in keeping it in view on the expanded sweep. Target eventually opened out to about 11,000 yards and could not be closed. Difficulty was experienced at ranges of 11,000 yards and up in keeping the target.

16 December 1942

SJ Radar
Picked up pips on several islands, northwest of Formosa, some being 15,000 yards distant. Ascertained from the Navigator that all of these islands were of volcanic rock formation.

17 December 1942

SJ Radar
Definitely ascertained that Radar will not work without the heater circuit being on. The trouble being that the heater around the electrode end of the McNally tube will not permit

— page 66 —
19 December 1942

SJ Radar
Lost sensitivity in the receiver section. Loss took place over a period of about 45 minutes. At the end of this period, dove ship and had occasion to make a thorough check. Trouble was finally narrowed down to IF amplifier. In checking around FL201 the test prod slipped. Sensitivity was immediately regained and the picture on the screen doubled its former height, coming back to the position it occupied when the equipment was first installed. This makes it almost certain that the adjustment of the plug tuning coils in this unit are in a great measure responsible for the height of the picture on the screen.

20 December 1942

SJ Radar
Made a surface chase, under conditions of poor visibility. Picked up target for very short time at 9550 yards. No more contacts.

SD Radar
Filament and grid shorted out in two oscillators. Replaced with new tubes. Necessary to increase grid bias (Rgl) and change locking in voltage to stop double pulsing. Plate current also low. Expect to be able to decrease Rgl after 20 to 50 hours use.

21 December 1942

SD Radar
Manned upon surfacing. Signs of double pulsing until antenna was out of the water about 1 minute, then it stopped. Immediately picked up mountain peak at 36 miles which opened out to 40 miles.

- 28 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 67 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Second War Patrol.

There were signs of two radars crossing us, one of a non-directional type with a fa. 1y smooth pulse, 6 miles long. The other must have been of a directional type centered at about forty miles because of the fact that the pulse occurred a number of times and then would go away for about 30 seconds. This led to the belief that it was directional type using automatic training. Position 15 miles west of TANKAN.

SJ Radar
Upon starting, equipment was working well, getting excellent pips on waves. The sea calmed down and wavepips lost.

Picked up target while in power training at the same time but got run into. Had great amount of difficulty in getting targets but finally settled down to steady ranges at about 500 yards.

The difficulties of this attack, insofar as the Radar is concerned substantiates the necessity for some method of tuning (RECEIVER TUNING) as this adjustment will vary a small amount from time to time. Under ordinary circumstances this adjustment may be made by using wavepips but at this time there was not a single whitecap. A false signal generator such as is used with the FC and FD equipments could in all probability be developed to fill this deficiency.

25 December 1942

SJ Radar
Picked up object at 5500 yards. Tracked for about half an hour. Bridge did not pick it up until at about 2500 yards. Finally lost due to range increasing. Target similar to Subchaser.

28 December 1942

SJ Radar
Picked up target at 7425 yards, before lookouts. Made good approach, no radar difficulties, target remained in view, no trouble in giving ranges whenever desired. Fired at 1200 yards but no hits. Commenced second attack, target bearing remained about 180°. Had great difficulty in giving range on this run, the target seemingly getting smaller as the range closed. Immediately after fish hit, the target commenced getting larger. Firing range was about 1150 yards.

- 29 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 68 —
29 December 1942

SJ Radar
Trouble of 19 December corrected this date. Trouble found to be in V6, the deflection video amplifier, a 6A67. Tube had a bad element which would not show up on test. A slight jar would throw it in or out. On testing for total emission, the needle would flicker slightly when tube was tapped with finger. When replaced the difficulty disappeared.

5 January, 1943

SJ Radar
Commenced losing step between ranges of 1800 and 9000 yards.

6 January 1943

SJ Radar
Changed converter units.

Commenced checking trouble with range unit. Using oscilloscope, tracked trouble to delay tank. As the ship rolled, the picture would bounce in and out. The output of the crystal knocker stage was present at all times but the output of the driven crystal was present only at times. Output of V5 taken at E5 is shown in fig. 1. Output of V11 taken at E7 is shown in Fig. 2 and that of V8 taken at Ell in Fig. 3.

Fig. 1 (E5)
Fig. 2 (E7)
Fig. 3 (Ell)

7 January 1943

SJ Radar
Took Range Tank apart by following method:
1. Turned upside down and lashed in that position.
2. Took off bottom plates of chasis.
3. Removed cover plate of gear box on tank.
4. Using clean cup and eye dropper, removed liquid in gear box and stuck eye-dropper thru limber holes and removed liquid as far as could be reached. This gives plenty of clearance for working. (liquid won't spill).

30 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 69 —
5. Removed three outer holding screws.
6. Removed all inner holding screws except for one at bottom and just to the right.
7. Entire assembly lifts out. (portion holding crystals and crystal holding and moving screw).

By taking ohmmeter readings across the crystal, the fault was finally laid unto a break in the wire connecting the input jack to the crystal. The break was discovered by thrusting the test prod thru the wire at successive points. Temporary repairs were made with a piece of single conductor, rubber covered wire by splicing at a point one inch below the crystal and making the other joint in the gear box. Both joints were soldered, a section of rubber insulation was cut open and slipped over the joint. The entire joint was covered with a layer of phenolic tape (two thicknesses) and the ends neatly whipped with a piece of waxed sail twine. Proper ohmmeter readings across the crystals (across PG1 and PG2) should be of the order of 50,000 ohms.

10-11 January 1943

SJ Radar
Commenced getting high H. V. Rectifier and RF current intermittently. Within two hours this had risen to a prohibitive value. Took oscillographs of the output of the Knocker outputs in the Transmitter-Receiver unit. Sync pulse was normal but output of JS was not present.

Took resistance to ground readings from all tube sockets in Knocker. Found R18 opened to 400,000 ohms. Also found in checking all points in Transmitter Unit, the 813 tube had a grounded plate.

R18 being the plate dropping resistor in the side of the primary multivibrator that causes the 813 tube to be swung into cutoff. This tube became conductive but was never swung into cutoff and drew excessive current which ruined the tube.

Entire working time spent on both radars both in routine service and correcting breakdowns was approximately 55 man hours for the entire two months.

- 31 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 70 —
FC5-4/A16-3
Serial 019
CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CSD 102 Conf. Ltr. FB5-
102/44-3 of 1-29-43.

From:
To:
Subject:

1. Forwarded.

ENCLOSURE (C).

— page 71 —
5-102/44-3
Serial (07)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
January 29, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL
From: The Commander Submarine Division 102.
To: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS234) - Second Patrol;
Comment on:

1. The Second War Patrol of the KINGFISH was conducted in an aggressive manner and was favored with sufficient enemy contacts to expend twenty two torpedoes in eight attacks on six freighters. Two of the six ships attacked were sunk, one by a single torpedo hit and the other by two hits.

2. The torpedoes carried by KINGFISH on this patrol were overhauled at Midway. It is certain that three torpedoes were pre-matures which is much higher than the 2% average mentioned in the Bulletin of Ordnance Information No. 4-42. There is also strong evidence that three additional torpedoes were sinkers at the firing point. This high percentage of torpedo failures reflects unfavorably upon the skill of both overhaul and ship personnel.

3. The attack delivered against the freighter on December 8th failed due to wrong gyro settings. Failures of this nature can and must be prevented by conducting frequent drill of the entire torpedo-control party.

4. The extensive notes taken from the Radar Log and submitted with the report are very interesting. It is suggested that extracts therefrom be sent to the Radio and Sound Laboratories, Bellevue and Point Loma for analysis.

5. Material:
   - Refit of KINGFISH will be accomplished by Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor.
   - KINGFISH will be docked for investigation and correction of vibration in the starboard shaft.
   - The auxiliary generator will be removed from the vessel for cleaning and repair. Hand pump for the generator will be installed if suitable pump can be obtained.

6. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the KINGFISH are congratulated for sinking two enemy ships on this patrol.

ENCLOSURE (E)

— page 72 —
712-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0491
Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
April 15, 1943.

C-DECLASSIFIED-I-A-L
CONSUBAC PATROL REPORT NO. 166
U.S.S. KINGFISH - THIRD WAR PATROL.

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To: Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS234) - Report of Third War Patrol.

Enclosure:
(A) Copy of Subject War Patrol Report.
(B) Comsubdiv 102 Conf. 1tr FB5-102/A16-3
Serial 041 of April 12, 1943.
(C) Comsubron 10 Conf. 1tr FG5-10/A16-3(FB5-102)
Serial 052 of April 11, 1943.

1. This, the third war patrol of the U.S.S. KINGFISH, was typical of the previous two in that good area coverage was carried out and all attacks were made in an aggressive manner.

2. Again, it is unfortunate that torpedo performance was unreliable. Two torpedoes were seen to pass under a ship after being fired from a range of 800 yards; of two prematures one probably caused the target to avoid, and one was seen to hit against the side of the ship and fail to explode.

3. After being on station sixteen days the KINGFISH was caught on the surface at night and forced down by a destroyer and subjected to a very severe depth charging. Over forty depth charges were dropped in the vicinity of the KINGFISH, of which the last twelve were extremely close. This was probably the most severe depth charging received by any returning submarine. The KINGFISH suffered not only much interior damage but sufficient hull damage to necessitate its returning to the building yard.

4. It is of particular note that the KINGFISH again used his radars very efficiently. It is of extreme interest to see that although most instruments throughout the ship were broken or badly damaged, both radars were able to function properly after the depth charging.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY AD 0991 DATE 5/6/72
DECLASSIFIED

— page 73 —
1. FLEET: 1. COMMANDING OFFICER, 2. OFFICER, 3. CREW
2. SERIAL: 0491
3. CARE OF FLEET POST OFFICE, 4. SAN FRANCISCO, 5. CALIFORNIA, 6. APRIL 15, 1943.
4. C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
5. SUBMARINE PATROL REPORT NO. 166
6. U.S.S. KINGFISH - THIRD WAR PATROL.
7. SUBJECT: U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS234) - Report of Third War Patrol.
8. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the Commanding Officer, Officers, and Crew for this, their third successive aggressive patrol, and for the excellent performance of duty in maintaining control of the vessel and repairing damage caused by depth charge. The KINGFISH is credited with inflicting the following damage on the enemy:
9. SUNG.
10. 1. FREIGHTER (SAIHO MARU Class) - 4,639 tons
11. 2. TRANSPORT (TAKATTHO MARU Class) - 8,154 tons
12. 3. DIESEL TRAWLER - 250 tons
13. TOTAL - 13,043 tons
14. J.H. BROWN, JR., Acting.

DISTRIBUTION
1. (IM-43)
2. List III: SS
3. Special:
   - PI(5), EN3(5), ZI(5),
   - Consublant (2), X3(1),
   - Comsubsowespace (2),
   - Subschool, NL (2),
   - Comtaskfor 72 (2),
   - Comsubron 50 (2),
   - Comsopac (2),
   - Cinolant (2),
   - Comtaskfor 16 (1).

E.R. SWINBURNE,
Flag Secretary.

— page 74 —
1943, U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Third War Patrol. Period: from February 16, 1943 to April 9, 1943.

Operation Order #25-43.

Prologue:

Arrived Pearl Harbor from Second War Patrol on January 23, 1943. Coronated refit on January 24, 1943 by Submarine Base, Pearl. Completed February 7, 1943. Ship deepened and sound tested conducted. Training period of three days and fired six exersilos torpedoes. Roadiness for sea on February 16, 1943.

Feb. 16, 1943:
1300 (V.A.R.) - Departed Pearl under surface escort for assigned area via M.Cawry. Enroute inside training dives and fired 3" and 20mm. guns.

Feb. 20:
1000 Y - Blocked Submarine Base, Midway and received 14,000 gallons of fuel. Midway replaced coils in one distiller and also repaired SJ radar which delayed our departure until following afternoon.

Feb. 21:
1600 Y - Departed under air escort for patrol area to 30 mile circle from Midway. Seas heavy from West.

Feb. 23-28:
Moderate to heavy seas from S.W. and N. necessitated slowing to one engine speed about 30% of this period. Training dives and drills enroute.

Mar. 2:
Patrolled special area. Nothing sighted. Torpedo run for after angle solver is incorrect. Attempts to repair are unsuccessful. Intend to use Mark 8 and set gyro's by hand for after tubes. Apparently a pin has dropped out of a gear.

Mar. 4:
Sighted trawler on horizon. Dived and closed to identify. Trawler is of about 250 tons with crew of about 15-20 men. Has what appears to be a machine gun mounted on top of pilot house. Made battle surface and raked trawler with 3" and 20mm's. Trawler immediately

— page 75 —
0700 K(Cont'd)
- Caught fire. Japs made no effort to surrender but attempted to escape when we first surfaced. Left vessel in a burning and sinking condition. Thirty minutes later Radar pip at 15 miles and closing fast. Plane not sighted. Dived for two hours to avoid detection and routine torpedoes. Trawler was burning and smoking heavily and at 15 miles should have been plainly visible to a plane. Latitude 24-23-30 N, Long. 143-18-18 E. Seas making up from N.W.
- Sighted for a short period fishing vessel or patrol craft of about 200 tons on port beam. Seas too rough to use 3" gun so continued on-course.
- Sighted porisope on starboard quarter, distance 5000 yards, opened out to range of 14 miles and then dived for two hours in hopes that submarine would probably trail us. Periscope looked similar to our attack periscope. Did not send out contact report. Lat. 23N Long. 133 E.
- Entered area.
- Submerged north of KOTO SHO for the day making high periscope observations every 10 minutes. Sighted two type,97 heavy bombers heading towards FORMSOA. Course 270°, altitude 2000 feet, range 7000 yards. Surfaced and proceeded around southern tip of FORMSOA. Lat. 22-25.N Long. 121-25E.
- Submerged about 15 miles south of RYUKYU Island. Sighted several fishing sampans during the forenoon. Sighted ship to the north distance about 7 miles. Ship is 4 goal post type of about 7000 tons lightly loaded and is screened by one DD, on a southerly course, speed 15 knots. DD ranging ahead on either bow with target zig zagging about every three minutes. Not a constant helm. At 2600 yards target presented zero angle on bow giving us a good stern tube shot. Approximately one minute before firing bearing target zigged left giving us a torpedo run of 1800 yards and track of 80° starboard. Fired three torpedoes by periscope bearing first to hit, second 2° ahead and third 20° astern. Firing interval about 25 seconds. All torpedoes heard to run by
- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 76 —
1315 H (Cont'd)
sound but I was unable to follow their tracks. Three
misses. About fifteen seconds after last torpedo was
fired target turned to port and headed for the beach.
Took quick look for planes and then watched escort for
possible shot at him.

1353 H
DD at this time at range of 2500 yards.
Another depth charge. Unable to see any planes but ceil-
ing was about 1000 feet with low hanging clouds, water
was like a mill pond. Since neither the target nor the
DD was dropping the charges decided the planes must be
with us. Went deep. Four more depth charges about 300 -
500 yards away. DD searched area for next 1 1/2' hours.
Foriscope depth. Nothing in sight.

1700 H
Surfaced and patrolled about 30 miles West of TAKOI
during the night. Nothing sighted except one lighted
sampan. Estimated target draft 16 feet; speed 14 1/2
knots, course 160 Tt. Lt., 22-120L Long. 120-35E.
Submerged patrol west of TAKOI along HONG KONG - TAKOI
route. Nothing sighted. Visibility excellent. Intend
to close FORMOSA during the night.

Mar. 11
During the night sighted several lighted sampans.
Sighted patrol vessel at range of 2600 yards. Patrol
trainod searchlight on us as we dived. During the next
thirty minutes patrol vessel dropped nine (9) depth
charges about 500 yards distant, sounded like 150 pound
charges. At daylight came to periscope depth. Nothing
in sight. Continued patrol vessel about twice
the size of our sub chasers.
Made approach and closed to 500 yards on patrol vessel
of about 500 tons naking 16 1/2 knots. Too small and
shallow draft for torpedo. Two high stick nests, high
bow and stern and tall stack. Depth charge throwers
and dishfips with gun forward and aft. Estimated length
175 feet. Vessel made a sweep in our vicinity and then
headed for TAKOI.

1140 H

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 77 —
1300 H - Sighted KAMIKAZE class destroyer to north with 90° starboard angle oh bow range 6000 yards speed 10 knots, Unable to close range. Target, disappeared in direction of TAKO. Lat. 21-50 N Long. 120-11 E. Six distant depth charges heard to the north.

: 1502 H - Enroute along East coast of FORMOSA.

: 1505 H - Submerged patrol on 100 fathom curve east of HOKO SHO. Nothing sighted but sempans fishing and patrolling.

: 1105 H - Submerged patrol south east of HOKO SHO. Heard pinging and sighted masts and bridge of what appeared to be a mine sweeper of AM-13 class on northerly course range -12,000 yards speed 15 knots. Unable to close range for attack. Visibility is hazy with low ceiling.

: 1155 - Sighted passenger freighter on northerly course range 5-6000 yards with 3 plane escort. Two engine bombers. Fired three torpedo spread at estimated range of 1800 yards, 100° port track targets speed 12 knots. First torpedo premature at 38 seconds. Sound heard other two torpedoes running. PI-ness headed for firing point. Target turned away. Two minutes and thirty seconds after firing heard heavy torpedo explosion from direction of target. After this sound unable to hear target screws. Unable to make periscope observation since we had started deep to avoid planes. During the next two minutes eight depth charges were dropped at a distance of about 500-1000 yards.

: 1400 H - Periscope depth. Several planes in sight and one patrol boat searching where we had fired.

: 1557 H - Depth charges to the west of us estimated range 4 miles. Nothing in sight but visibility is not good. Heard echo raging but no vessel sighted.

: 1713 H - Surface and stood toward China coast. A small patrol boat with what appeared to be signal flags flying and four lookouts had been near us all morning. This boat

— page 79 —
2310 H (Cont'd)
In retrospect I believe I should have expended another torpedo on the target, however there is no doubt in my mind but that the target eventually sank, from torpedo hits. Lat. 24-32 N Long. 120-15 E. Target similar to SAINO M-RU page 217 ONI-218J gross tonnage 4639 tons,

Mar. 18 - Sighted OSKSEU LIGHT bearing 315° T distance 24 miles, Submerged patrol in vicinity of OSKSEU LIGHT. Several sailing junks sighted.
1856 H Surfaced and stood towards HOKA SHO.

Mar. 19 - Sighted transport on zig-zag course of 230° T at speed of 15 knots.
0805 H Fired four torpedo sprats at range of 1800 yards 105° starboard track. First torpedo hit aft of bridge. Target started settling by stern and turning to port. Fourth torpedo hit 40 seconds after the first and hit about 100 feet inside the stern. One life boat in water by this time. Target listing to starboard and going down by stern. One salvo from gun forward. Japs are sliding down port side forward. Appear to have packs on backs and a greenish tan uniform - there is many a barrack scratched pump in the Jap army today. Target sank ith bow pointing sky ward. Approximately 200 Japs in the water. Two life boats and about 4 life rafts. Believe at least two thirds of the passengers went down with this ship. Transport is similar to TAKATHO M-RU Page 27 ONI-J Gross Tonnage 8154 tons. Spread used 00-1/2R - 1/2L 1/2L. Lat. 26-00 N Long 122-18 E. Continued patrol.

1852 H Surfaced.

Mar. 20 - Submerged patrol on 100 fathom curve S.E. of HOKO SHO. Nothing sighted except several small patrol boats which were definitely not fishing boats.
1900 H Surfaced for night patrol north east of HOKA SHO. Sighted fire inter bearing 270° T distance about 5000 yards. Int. 25-53 N Long. 122-20 E. Visibility varying from 1000 - 5000 yards.

-6- ENGLISH (A)

— page 80 —
2240 H (Cont'd)
Cornered approach tracking with radar. Target course 045° T speed 7-8 knots.

Mar. 21 - Visibility decreased to 1200 yards due to rain squalls, closed target and at 0000 H fired three torpedoes at range of 800 yards, 130° port track, depth setting of 8 feet. Divergent spread 0° -2°L-3°R. First torpedo passed under bow of target, second torpedo passed ahead, third torpedo passed under after part of ship. No explosions three misses. Opened out from target for another approach.

0005 Two torpedo explosions. Target course was checked as we crossed his stern and checked on with TDC.

0006 Target reversed course spooked up to 12 knots and began to throw depth charges from depth charge throwers on after well deck, and appeared to fire a gun once. At this time he was joined by a patrol boat which had evidently been trailing him. Visibility about 3000 yards. Nine depth charges were dropped within the next 15 minutes. Discomt'med approach and lost target on Radar. Target was about 4000 tons with 2 stick masts, one stack, and well deck forward end aft, composite superstructure. Estimated draft 12 feet, sea moderate to rough.

0500 H. Submerged about 15 miles north of HOKA SHO.

1013 H. Sighted patrol vessel of about 800 tons, shallow draft, distance 5 miles heading north.

1216 H. Sighted smoke bearing 140° T distance 6 miles. Identified as patrol vessel of about 1000 tons followed by 10 sampans ranging in size from 25 - 200 tons. All on course North. Unable to close range on patrol vessel under 4000 yards.

1712 H. Sighted what appeared to be the same two patrol vessels standing back towards HOKA SHO. During next 10 minutes seven depth charges were heard.

1256 H. Surfaced and opened out to eastward to patrol across traffic lans north coast of HOKA SHO. All traffic both north and southbound seems to make a landfall on HOKA SHO Light.

-7- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 81 —
U.S.S. KNIGFISH - Report of Third War Patrol.

Mar. 22 - Submerged patrol along traffic lane north and east of FORMOSA.
1625 H - Sighted 3 trawlers of about 200 tons with what appeared to be machine guns mounted on pilot house. Estimated speed 12 knots. They searched about in our area for about one hour and then disappeared to the south. Surface and stood over patrol in vicinity of transport sinking.

Mar. 23 - Sighted ship bearing 1500 T distance 5000 yards, angle on bow 90° Starboard. Appears to be a destroyer. Manned battle stations with intentions of gaining position ahead for a dawn attack. Everything was working nicely and we were gaining position ahead for 16 knots. Opened out on target very slowly at flank speed. At 0345 Target trained searchlight on us at range of about 5500 yards at which time we dove. Did not attempt a shot at target as visibility was too poor to stay at periscope depth and try an approach against a high speed zig-zagging target that had sighted us before we dove. Submerged to 250 feet, rigged for depth charge attack and ran silent changing course frequently. Thought we were evading successfully but at 0448 H commenced the first of eight runs during which the enemy dropped 40 depth charges. All except the last ones at 1228 H were close and were estimated at 25-150 yards. Heard serious of another vessel joining in the hunt. We ran silently as possible at 300 feet in 350 feet of water making anywhere from 40-60 turns but our adversary seemed to have no trouble staying on us with both listening and pinging, several times after daylight we started up for a torpedo shot but as soon as we would reach 200 feet he would start another run. Up until 1225 H we had escaped serious damage but at 1227 H on his last run he dropped two charges over the engine room at an estimated distance of 25-50 feet. These bulged in the hull over the engine rooms about 4 inches and bottomed us in 350 feet of water. Later commenced coming

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 82 —
0752 H (Cont'd)
thru the engine hull flappers where their seats had been sprung. Rigged chin falls on these and stopped leaks. Silenced ship completely and waited for dark. Destroyed BOM and rendered TDC inoperative. JK - QC sound heads apparently knocked out of line by depth charging. Unable to lower QB sound head before bottoming and after surfacing. Unable to train either sound head.

1700 H. Same screws heard for about 15-30 minutes. 1830 H. Manned battle stations and completed plans for scuttling ship in case escape seemed impossible. 1848 H. Surfaced and sighted patrol vessel of about 1000 tons lying to about 2000 yards on our starboard bow. Clear-ed area at flank speed on 4 engines. 2000 H. Started battery charge on one engine. Night is dark and sea is rough. By 2200 H the engine induction and bilges were dry and we were able to dive. Depth charging and damage incurred covered under A/S measures.

Mar. 24 0450. Submerged, Hull induction floods but engine induction is fairly tight. #2 periscope cut and #1 barely usable.

Mar. 25. Submerged during the day.

Mar. 26. Commenced running on surface. 2100 H. Broadcast message to Consubuca that we were clearing area. Receipt received about 5 hours later.

-9- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 83 —
1000 Y
April 4 - 1245 Y
April 9 - Part II - Weather
Part III - Tidal Information
1. Tidal information agrees in general with that indicated on the charts and in the Asiatic Pilot.
Part IV - Navigational Aids
1. All navigational lights on northern part of Formosa were burning with the regular characteristics. HOK: SHO light was not burning one night. COORAM PII light on the China coast was burning.

-10-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 87 —
1. PATROL ACTIVITY SEEMS TO BE ON THE UP GRADE NORTH AND SOUTH OF FORMOSA. IN PREVIOUS PATROLS IN THIS AREA THE OFF SHORE PATROLS WERE IN-EFFECTIVE AND NON AGGRESSIVE. HOWEVER, THIS TIME THE ONES ACCOUNTED SEEMED TO KNOW THEIR JOB ESPECIALLY IN THE VICINITY OF HOKA SHO LIGHT.

An efficient SJ Radar is a prime requisite especially during HEZZY VISIBILITY WHEN THE SMALL PATROLS ARE ABLE TO TRAIL WITHOUT BEING SEEN. ON THE NIGHT OF 11 MARCH WHEN THIS VESSEL WAS SIGHTED BY A SMALL PATROL AT 2600 YARDS AN EFFICIENT LOOKOUT WAS BEING MAINTAINED AND I DO NOT BELIEVE A PATROL VESSEL OF SIMILAR SIZE COULD HAVE BEEN SIGHTED SOONER. HOWEVER, HIS SUBSEQUENT DEPTH CHARGE ATTACK WAS NOT A CLOSE ONE PROBABLY DUE TO LACK OF EFFICIENT SOUND GEAR. RADAR CONTACT WAS MADE AT TIME OF SIGHTING.

2. A SHORT DEPTH CHARGE ATTACK WAS MADE BY A DD ON US AFTER AN ATTACK ON A FREIGHTER 10 MARCH IN THE VICINITY OF TAXOA. EIGHT CHARGES WERE DROPPED AT FROM 500-1500 YARDS AND I DO NOT BELIEVE THE DD EVER PICKED US UP BY SOUND. IT IS BELIEVED SOME OF THESE CHARGES WERE DROPPED BY PLANES.

3. ON 15 MARCH EIGHT DEPTH CHARGES WERE DROPPED AT AN ESTIMATED DISTANCE OF ABOUT 1000 YARDS PRESUMABLY FROM A MINE SWEEPER AND PLANES. DURING THE REMINDER OF THE DAY ABOUT 10 DEPTH CHARGES WERE DROPPED IN THE AREA, ALL WERE DISTANT. ON 16 MARCH ABOUT 12 DISTANT DEPTH CHARGES WERE HEARD.

4. AFTER AN ATTACK ON A MEDIUM FREIGHTER, THIS FREIGHTER REVERSED COURSE AND DROPPED EIGHT CHARGES FROM THROWERS. HE WAS JOINED BY A SMALLER BOAT SHORTLY THERE AFTER AND SEVERAL MORE DEPTH CHARGES WERE DROPPED.

5. THE DEPTH CHARGE ATTACK EXPERIENCED BY THIS VESSEL ON 23 MARCH, 1943 WAS A SEVERE ONE AND OUR ADVERSARY WAS BOTH TENACIOUS AND EXPERIENCED. BOTH HIS LISTENING AND PINGING WERE EFFICIENT. DURING THE ATTACKS WE TRIED MAKING KNUCKLE ZIG-ZAGS, SLOW TURNS GRADUAL CIRCLING, VARYING SPEED FROM 60-75 TURNS BUT HE SEEMED TO HAVE NO TROUBLE STAYING WITH US. SOUND CONDITIONS WERE PERFECT, UNFORTUNATELY, I CANNOT STRESS TOO STRONGLY THE ADVISIBILITY OF CONSTANTLY CHANGING COURSE AND GOING AS DEEP AS POSSIBLE. EACH TIME WE WOULD ATTEMPT TO COME TO A SHALLOWER DEPTH TO FIRE A TORPEDO HE WOULD START ANOTHER RUN. AFTER THOSE ATTEMPTS WE ABANDONED THIS IDEA.

— page 88 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Third War Patrol.

PART VIII
The following is the order of events.

0448 H Four charges (100-200 yards)
0523 H Four charges (.75-100 yards)
0624 H Four charges (100-200 yards)
0728 H Four charges (100-200 yards)
0752 H Heard screws of anchor vessel which joined in the hunt.
0820 H Eight charges (.75-100 yards)
0900 H Three charges (100-150 yards)
0911 H One charge (1000 yards) must have lost one over the side
1037 H One charge (1000 yards)
1157 H Six charges (.50-75 yards)
1226 H Six charges (.10-50 yards)

The charges at 50-75 yards would break lights, stop clocks, knock
cork off hull, break fans from their bases and in general jer light
hull fittings loose. In 350 feet of water the charges caused the
submarine to hump like a measuring worm and jarred us off our
course considerable as well as personnel off their feet.

The closer charges would jar open practically all our hull val-
ves which are secured with ACME threads such as torpedo tube out-
board vents, sanitary tank overboard valves, inboard exhaust valves
filling valve on #5 lub oil tank; head valves both sea and stop,
depth gauge valves. The outer doors to the stern tubes leaked from
being momentarily jarred open. Relief valve on collecting tank
lifted on each close charge. Leaks developed in #3 air bank at
the bottles. No method of securing this, necessary to bleed it
into boat. The riser between the H.P. receiver and H.P. Manifold
developed a large leak. Necessary to secure the air to tighten
this, E.B. Company design has stop valves for both risers - an
excellent idea. Also the riser should be U shaped instead of
straight to allow for movement between manifold and receiver during
depth charge. The forward impulse bottles developed leaks and were
bled down. Cut out valves should be installed in #1 and #3 H.P.
air banks to secure the air to the H.P. receiver, preferably at
each bottle but the latter would be difficult to accomplish.

The close charges at 1226 did most of the damage as two char-
ges exploded very close over the two engine rooms. The hull in the
two rooms sprung in about 6 inches and the flapper valves from the
engine induction began to leak badly due to sprung seats. Rigged
chain falls and stopped leaks. Recommend some positive means to
tightly close these valves. The boat vibrated unbelievably and
we involuntarily settled on the bottom in 350 feet of water, silen-
ced ship completely, and began repairing damage.

Never felt more like an ostrich due to lack of a simple top-
side sound head. Tried listening with stethoscope but to no avail.
A top side sound head is really necessary.

-15- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 89 —
U.S.S. TURFISH - Report of Third Ar Patrol.

- 2. RT VIII
- Enemy A/S Measures (Continued)
- The following equipment is out of commission:
  - Rudder angle indicator
  - Jitometer log
  - Both sound heads and fathometer
  - Gyro spindles bent on all tubes
  - Electrical leads on 3C sound head ruptured. Leaks repaired with wooden plugs and C clamps.
  - About 60% of all gauges and motors are out.
  - Vant valves to L.F. Tanks are hard to operate but do not believe they leak.
  - Safety tank vent masket blown out.
  - 2 periscope prisms shattered.
  - 1 periscope prisms cracked.
  - Crank case in officers ice machine ruptured.
  - Saw and stern planes re jerky and noisy in operation but consider they held up well.
  - Shaft revolution counters ruptured.
  - Lighting motor generators knocked out of line but still usable.
  - Sound motor generators out of line.
  - Hull ventilation blows slightly out of line.
  - Hull induction floored. Unsble to open hull induction.
  - After lub oil purifier broken by shock later repaired.
  - After pump out, motor floored out. Springs on purifier motor brushes jarred out.
  - About 75% of small material bolted to the hull is jarred loose from the hull.
  - Small electrical connection boxes, S&R boxes and microswitches-are not sufficiently rugged. Bekoile strips in connection boxes broke out around screws and fell out against metal covers shorting out connections. Probably can be nullified by inserting a sheet metal strip across the end of bekoile bar under holding screws heads and by placing a rubber lining in each connection box cover.
  - Leaks occurred in the flanges on the vent risers for #7 H.B. Tank. On some dives the engine induction leaks. It leaked badly during the depth ch r-ing.
  - The maneuvering room heard jarred loose from its base flange with ensuing leakage from sea. The relief valve on this collecting tank lifted t each close charging spurtin oil into the engine room, 100# pressure built up in after tubes after close ch.reas. At 1226 numerous personnel, even though braced for the shock were thrown from their feet. A jicudometer on safety tank would be of help since water was blown from safety instead of using the noisy trim or drain pump.

- 16-
- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 90 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Third War Patrol.

The following equipment is out of commission (Cont'd)

Numerous grounds have shown up through-out the ship. As far as is known no damage was caused to the radars by the depth charging. The DF loop is grounded out. The depth alarm in one torpedo.in stern tube was ruptured incident to the depth charging.

The main control cubicle engine outboard exhaust valves and electric meters stood up well. Also, fortunately, no fuel leaks developed as far as we know.

A silent trim rum was a necessity. This cannot be too strongly emphasized. Hand steering levers much to be desired as it is too slow, Remedy - a quiet running star-ring system. A higher reading manometer is needed. Close charges causes the depth gauge needle to leap as much as 150 feet or in other words against the peg. (450 ft. gauge).

Permanent dents are prevalent throughout the boat notably in the engine rooms.

At 1500 and again at 1700 the screws of our enemy were heard plainly through the hull for periods of about 15 minutes. He had screws which seemed to be unbalanced. Then he would start in on a run his screws sounded like a "bbs" in a beer bottle" - quotation from wit in control room.

At 1850 we surfaced by blowing safety, #1 and #7, than all main ballast tanks and Bow buoyancy, and retired from the area at flank speed.

After we bottomed we were not further molested by the Jap. Whether he lost us or ran out of depth charges is a conjecture. Personally, I think he thought he had finished us, however, he was definitely still in our area at 1700. The chart shows the bottom in this area as sand and shale.

The manner in which the hull stood up during this severe depth charging is indeed a tribute to the excellent workmanship of the Portsmouth Navy Yard.

-AT IX Mine Sweeping Operations.

None Observed.

— page 91 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Third War Patrol.

PART X Major Defects.

The noise from the screws and shafts in the super-sonic range increased noticeably during the patrol.

During the last refit when this vessel was dry-docked serious pitting was noted on the shafts which is probably due to electrolizing. Numerous spots as deep as 1/2 and 4"-5" in diameter were observed on both shafts. It may be necessary to replace those shafts during the next dry docking if this pitting has progressed.

It is recommended that the pitch be checked on both propellers and that they be checked for balance.

Considerable trouble was experienced with copper gaskets on the H.P. air compressors.

Before replacing air compressor valves the co per gaskets should be thoroughly annealed. Number 1 air compressor 3rd stage after cooling coil was replaced with spare.

Main generator bearings. It will be necessary to replace all four main generator bearing seals. It is difficult to disassemble the Elliot Company bearing seals without spoiling them. It is recommended that the disassembly of the generator bearing bearings only be accomplished at major overhaul. The end bell should be removed at each refit for generator cleaning without disassembly of generator bearing.

Number 2 distiller developed a leak enroute Midway from Pearl. A new set of coils was installed by Midway. Old coils had 1100 hours of use with 3 acid cleanings and had never been opened for inspection of coils. Lower third of tube cone was clean, middle third a solid block of salt seals, upper third a sea clean. Numerous leaks in tubes in lower third was found. Recommended that the coils be dropped for inspection of coils after every second acid cleaning.

Fuel oil. The fuel oil received at Pearl was very dirty. About a pound of dirt was extracted from every hundred gallons used. Sample of dirt being delivered to Submarine Base, Pearl for analysis.

Carrying spare armatures for purifier, lub and fuel oil pump motors certainly paid dividends on this patrol.

Temporary repairs were made to operate all machinery except sound gear, constant frequency unit (tuning fork casualty), wardroom ice box and one air conditioning unit.

New IMO pump is quiet in sonic range but noisy in supersonic range.

-18- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 92 —
19- ENCLOSURE (A)

Subject: U.S.S. KNIGPISH - Report of Third War Patrol.

PART XI Radio Reception.

Radio reception was complete except for about one hour at 2000 GMT in the area when fading was experienced.
Request for rendezvous was sent via Brisbane on 8470 Kcs. unable to raise NPM.

PART XII Health and Habitability.

Excellent due mostly to well balanced and well prepared food.

PART XIV

Miles steamed enroute to area - 4228
Miles steamed in area - 2416
Miles steamed enroute from area - 4111

PART XV

Fuel expended 100,000 gallons.

PART XVI Factors of Endurance Remaining.

Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Fresh water Personnel

7 20,000 30 Unlimited 14

PART XVII

1. The performance of duty of officers and men during this patrol was excellent. During the severe depth charging sustained by this vessel on 23 March 1943, the courage, initiative and readiness of this crew as shown by officers and men was a credit to the Naval Service.
Their actions during a trying incident left nothing to be desired.

— page 93 —
20- ENCLOSURE (A)

Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Third War Patrol.

PART XVIII Ordnance.

Although all topside stowage stood up well it is believed they could be better designed. On the 3" stowages the strong backs are of too weak a construction so that when they are dogged down tight they bind allowing the strongback to bind against top and springing on the bottom. In addition, the bracing surface between the dogs and the strong backs are too large and have too much friction between them. It takes two men to open or close these lockers tightly. The covers to all lockers were caved in by the depth charges and are all only partially tight now. However, topside 3" stowages are a big asset and among other things reduce the size of the battle surface partly about 40 per-cent. The point detonation ammunition is a great improvement on anything yet tried. It does start fires and tears a good size hole. However a 3" gun is just not large enough or does the shell pack enough explosive to immune a sinking with a minimum expenditure of ammunition. The 20mm were also effective in starting fires and also do a considerable amount of damage. Anything smaller than a .50 caliber is absolutely useless and all smaller caliber guns except those absolutely necessary should be turned in to make room for more 20mm and 3" ammunition.

PART XVIII Sound.

In regard to sound gear it is suggested for new construction that the sound heads be of the permanently lowered type covered with a sound dome similar to those on new destroyers. Make the sound dome strong enough to permit bottoming. With this set up a lot of trouble in regard to lowering and rising of heads could be eliminated. In addition a simpler type head and training gear could be used, which would further eliminate a lot of petty troubles. It is believed with this set up it would still permit use, to some extent, of your sound gear when on the bottom. Sound wells could be eliminated which would give a stronger pressure hull in that locality, and this was proven on the last depth charging when a leak was sprung between the sound wells and #1 main ballast tank. From destroyer experience it is also believed that a much better sound watch could be maintained while on the surface at high surface speeds.

— page 94 —
20-21 February 1943
The following faults were corrected at Midway by RCA and NE Field Representatives respectively assisted by Base Personnel:
SJ Radar:
1. Drive cable from Zero Set Control Broken.
2. Tube not down in socket.
3. Magnetron filament leads reversed.
4. C and D Tuner assembly arcing.
5. Coax at base of mast and Tuner C and D not properly fitting into waveguide.
6. Antenna unit hooked up wrong.
7. Adjusted lobing cam.

SD Radar:
1. Retuned equipment to give it stability.
2. Installed 1/4 meeohm resistor in Grid Leak Network.
3. Disconnected Decontamination Switch.

4 March 1943
SJ Radar:
Lost sweep and transmitted pulse. Changed V7 in Knocker.

5 March 1943
SJ Radar:
Lobe switching out. Opened head of antenna after tests and found field coil in motor open. Replaced from spore. Required about 1 hour to open head, change motors and get cover back on. Accomplished during daylight hours.

6 March 1943
SJ Radar:
Arcing in transmitter unit. Found lead from Lt. arcing to ground. High current developed in Ml. in transmitter unit. Replaced the 813 tube. Replaced V3, 4 and 5 in indicator unit.

7 March 1943
SD Radar:
No sweep on screen. Noticed 2X2 high volt ge rectified had blue glow again. Replaced cathode ray tube. On starting equipment noticed plate of 2X2 turn rd. Secured and chocked condensers in high voltage filter network in Receiver-Indicator unit. Found C255 broken down. Replaced from spore.

SJ Radar:
Lost sweep (shifting to right) replaced V1 and V2 and permitted equipment to cool. Placed back in operation. Continuing work on Knocker.

— page 95 —
8 March 1943
SJ Radar:
Equipment seems to definitely have an "8 hour working period."
Changed following items in hope they were breaking down after certain period of time:
Transmitter unit - RJ4,R15,R11,R12, C4, C5.1
No results obtained.

After a period of approximately 1 hour of operation, the trace on the Main end Expanded sweeps went out and the transmitted pulse was lost. 77 in the Knockor was renewed and TDI in the transmitter was removed. Within 20 minutes the equipment was again started. The transmitted pulse viewed on the precision sweep settled down to normal end the sweep came back to its normal position. In removing TDI, the heaters in the transmitter unit were cut out. It is probable that this thermostat would not open and the transmitter was overheating.

9 March 1943
SD Radar:
Made frequent checks for land with SD Radar. Results were excellent, pips obtained several times in the order of 56 miles.
SJ Radar:
Radar operated satisfactorily during the night. The heater resistors are now inoperative because TDI is removed. The heater on the McNally tube is functioning. The trouble experienced on the "8 hour work period" is definitely attributed to overheating in that the thermostat TDI was not cycling. After an operating period of about one hour the exhaust fan commences cycling.

10 March 1943
Took eight depth charges between 100 and 300 yards away. Charges were probably 300 lb. ones. After surfacing startd SJ for night operation and SD for about a one minute test. Both in good shape.
SJ Radar:
Before surfacing following procedure was used to clean slip rings at base of antenna because saltwater had leaked over them at 300' depth.
1. Jammed lower bearing full of grease which stopped leakage.
2. Hung bucket with about three gallons of fresh water on unit and using hand bilge pump. Flushed rings thoroughly with water from bucket.
3. After permitting excess water to drip off, used air hose to blow out residue of fresh water.
4. Used hot air blower for period of about ten minutes to dry out unit. Results obtained were excellent when lobing control was checked, having no points where second lobing image dropped out.

-22- ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 96 —
11 March 1943
SJ Radar:
    Changed two IF amplifiers because of loss of grass on scope.
    Procedure used - take one new tube and come down line of IF amplifiers, placing it in each socket until noise lines (grass) show gain.

: 13 March 1943
SJ Radar:
    Lack of control on Intensity Control. Also features of Grid Video (Automatic Noise Suppression Circuit) not functioning. Changed Grid and Deflection Videos. Changed cathode ray tube and found base mutilated and torn, the entire bakelite bottom piece coming off with little trouble. Replaced with spare tube.

    Tried juggling IF amplifiers but could not raise the height of the saturation point more than 1/4 inch above its former height after trying eight new 6A07's in the socket of V207 (performs function of 2nd detector). Also tried change of Deflection Video - no change.

: 17 March, 1943
SJ Radar:
    Replaced TDI in transmitter fromspares. Unit as yet is not overheating. Picked up target - coached on by bridge. "Mashout 4000 tons steamer. First picked up at 10,800 yards. After firing checked bearing indicator with remains. Bearing should be increased 2.50.

: 23 March, 1943
SJ Radar:
    Biked up target after being coached on by bridge. Picked up at about 4600 yards. Followed target out to 5900 yards then dove. During daytime took a Severe depth charging. After surfacing, the equipment was in good shape except for leakage around base of antenna.

: 24 March, 1943
SD Radar:
    Started equipment for test. Signs of moisture in Antenna. Checked with megger - 75,000 ohms to ground. Also shorted tube (oscillator) showed up. Replaced oscillators and tested. All apparently OK.

: 31 March, 1943
SJ Radar:
    Exceptional amount of noise (mechanical) developed in blower motors. Removed and greased both. One motor installed at Subase PHTH had never been greased.

- 23 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 97 —
2 April, 1943
3F Radar:
Excessive noise (mechanical) in Magnetron blower. Removed and found 4 blades missing from impeller. Manufactured one from sheet copper. Volume of air reduced on fan but equipment operated normally throughout night. Equipment is quieter than it ever was before.

Servicing time during Patrol on 3F - 30 man hours
"

— page 98 —
1. The Third War Patrol of the KINGFISH covered a period of fifty two days, seventeen of which were spent in the regularly assigned area. The patrol was conducted in a very aggressive manner and was terminated due to extensive depth charge damage.

2. Attacks. Position attained on all attacks was excellent. Torpedo spread employed was ample in every attack except one. In the attack on the 7000 ton freighter in the early afternoon of March 10th the spread of three torpedoes covered about 3/4 target length which is not considered to be sufficient under the conditions of range and visibility pertaining.

3. Torpedo Performance. Two prematures, one observed dud and one probable dud in seventeen torpedoes fired do not tend to improve waning confidence in the weapon. Recent directives to inactivate the magnetic feature of the explorer may reduce the present high percentage of prematures.

4. Material. KINGFISH has survived the most severe depth charging of any vessel of this squadron to date. It is noteworthy that the damaged battery jars and the main control cubicle withstood the shocks without injury. Certain weaknesses in construction, notably the ventillation and engine air induction system, electric connection boxes, gauges and meters and need for a directional top-side sound receiver and a safety tank gauge are noted as a result of KINGFISH experience and will be covered in separate correspondence.

Hull repairs may require a prolonged Navy Yard availability during which the above recommended alterations, if feasible, should be accomplished.

5. The Commanding Officer, Offi cer and Crew of the KINGFISH are congratulated upon this well conducted, aggressive and productive patrol. The excellent judgment of the commanding officer and the courage, skill and resourcefulness of the crew in successfully extricating their vessel from a most hazardous position is worthy of the highest praise.

ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 99 —
FC5-10/A16-3
(FB5-102)
Serial 052
CONFIDENTIAL
From:
To:
Subject:
U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS234), Third War Patrol - Comments on.

1. The third war patrol of the KINGFISH was aggressively conducted and the assigned area was thoroughly covered. Considerable anti-submarine activity was encountered, and the KINGFISH withstood what is probably the worst depth charging experienced by any surviving submarine to date.

2. An interesting comment in the patrol report is made in connection with the premature torpedo explosion that occurred during the attack conducted on March 15. The Commanding Officer states that a magnetic disturbance was detected in the area, [Magnetic Disturbance: text here] and the torpedo plodder mechanisms to function prematurely should be the subject of special study. It is conversely noted that according to present charts no magnetic disturbance exists in the area where the second premature explosion was experienced on March 17.

3. A total of seventeen torpedoes were fired, and four hits were made for a score of 23.5%. Two prematures, one dud, and two which probably ran deep, marred the torpedo performance.

4. The close depth charging experienced on March 23 caused such severe damage to the hull and such extensive damage to machinery and fittings throughout the ship that the Squadron Commander recommends the KINGFISH be returned to a building yard for complete overhaul. Such an overhaul would also give building yards an excellent opportunity to study the effects of severe depth charging on various material and methods of mounting machinery and fittings.

5. Although the evidence in the sinking of the 4640-ton freighter is not entirely conclusive, it is believed to be sufficient to credit sinking. It is recommended that the following damage on the enemy be credited to the KINGFISH:

-1-
ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 100 —
15-10/A16-3
(FB5-102)
Serial 052
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS234), Third War Patrol - Comments on.

SUNK

AP (TAKATTHO NARU) 8150 tons
AK (SATO NARU) 4640 tons
1 Trawler 250 tons

TOTAL 13040 tons

6. The Commander Submarine Squadron Ten congratulates the Commanding Officer and personnel of the KINGFISH on the damage inflicted on the enemy and on the magnificent cool-headed performance of duty of officers and men during the severe depth charging. The courage and initiative shown by all hands on this occasion was largely responsible for saving the ship and enabling it to be brought safely back to port.

ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 103 —
U.S.S. KINGFISHER
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISHER - Fourth Tar Patrol.

1000 L.A.T. 26-35 N; LONG. 173-32 E.
Fuel used 1144. Illos 267.

15 July
Hold fire-control drills and medo trim divo in afternoon.
NOON L.A.T. 26-00; LOG. 160-36 E.
Fuel used 1156. Illos 267.

16 July
1022 L
Submerged for trim divo. Hold drills in afternoon.
1015 L
Surfaced.
NOON L.A.T. 25-56; LOG 161-01.
Fuel used 1326. Illos 247.

17 July
1255 L
Submerged for trim divo.
1330 L
Surfaced.
NOON L.A.T. 25-10 N; LONG. 159-12 E.
Fuel used 1582. Illos 275.
Routined torpedoes.

18 July
1300 K
Submerged for trim.
1327 K
Surfaced.
NOON L.A.T. 25-18 N; LOG. 154-15 E.
Fuel used 1588. Illos 256.

1700 K
Sighted small patrol vessel of about 200 tons, bering 3500T., distance 7 miles. Soos too rough to use dock gun, so continued on our way.
Position 75 milos N. of INOUS ISLAND.

19 July
1300 K
Submerged for trim.
1310 K
Surfaced. Hold fire-control drills.
NOON L.A.T. 2L-34 N; LOG. 150-07 E.
Fuel used 1653. Illos 224.

20 July
1300 K
Submerged for 15 minuto trim divo. Soa condition 3. .ind from SS forco 3.
POOT L.A.T. 27-51 N; LOG. 1145-147 5.
Fuel used 1661. Illos 216.

21 July
Weather rainy and boavy swalls from SW.
1000 L.A.T. 23-19 N; LONG. 1142-02 E.
Fuel used 1671. Illos 233.

— page 105 —
28 July
0500 H: 1ide thirty minute trim divo.
Surface petrol. Nothing sighted.
2000 Lft. 19-04 N; 100G. 110-33 E.
Fuel used 1254. Illos 1148.

29 July
045 H: Submerged 15 milos N... of Capo BOJEDOR and
closed boach to 2 milos. Liking poriscopo observations from 55 fot. Nothing sighted.
1930 H: Surface and headed for BAUHAT chennol.
1000 Lft. 10-33 N; 100 G. 120-33 E.
Fuel used 951. Illos 178.

30 July
0240 H: Sighted CAIEGUN ISLAND, distance 20 milos, bearing
0150T.
0315 H: Sighted CAZIE BEGANO, distance 30 milos, bearing
2600T.
0455 E: Surface about 6m milos forta of AARRI for
petrol. This will cover approaches to AARRI
as well as the BAUHAT chennol. Visibility
is excellent both day and night. Nothing sighted.
1000 Lft. 18-36; 100G. 121-37 E.
Fuel used 1438. Illos 121.
1935 E: Surface on course 0050T, speed 10 knots.
2355 E: Sighted BAUHAT ISLAND bearing 0350T., distance
25 milos.

31 July
0430 H: Submerged for petrol in B.LIT C.T.M.C chennol.
Visibility excellent.
1918 H: Surface. Petroloid across the chennol during
this night.
1000 Lft. 19-45 N; 100G. 121-56 E.
Fuel used 1433. Illos 113.

1 Aug.
0502 H: Submerged for petrol in B.LIT C.T.M.C chennol.
Visibility excellent.
1900 E: Surface and stood towards T.L.T.M on course 3100T,
at 11 knots.
1000 Lft. 19-52 N; 100G. 121-53 E.
Fuel used 504. Illos 102.

2 Aug.
0456 E: Submerged for petrol.
1754 H: Sighted petrol vessel bearing 1170T. Tomago
about 1000 tons. Started approach but broke off
attack - too shallow draft for torpedoes.

— page 106 —
1819 H
Gun forward end depth charge rocks aft.
This patrol was joined by a small engine aft
vessel of about 500 tons and they disappeared
in the direction of KISKO TO.
Surfaced and held radar plotting drill on prov-
iously sighted vessels. Tracked them out on
course 3100T., stood 9. We stood up coast on
course 0310T., at 15 knots. Night was clear with
good visibility.
HOCK LT. 21-45 H; LOG. 121-12 H.
Puel used 910. Illes 1147.

: 0015 H
e/c to 0100T.
e/c to 2800T., slowed to 8 knots and sat sound
watch.
0100 H
e/c to 15 knots. e/c to 1150T.
0200 H
e/c to 2350T.
0500 H
Submerged patrol. Visibility excellent.
Lashing joriscoco observations over five minutes
at 55 foot. Nothing sighted.
1930 H
Surfaced and stood towards southern tip of FOROSI,
during the night. GORN BI Light burning with
normal characteristics.
LOC LT. 22-29 N; LOC. 121-45 E.
Fuel used 1330. Illes 171.

: 0428 H
Submerged for patrol between KOTO SZO and GORN
BI. Nothing sighted during the day.
1929 H
Surfaced and eased to the eastern side of FOROSI.
1000 LT. 22-03 H; LOC. 121-09 E.
Fuel used 356. Illes 64.

: 0425 H
During the night sighted a line of lighted small
craft about 5 miles east on a line of bearing
about 3100T., beginning at LT. 21-10 H; LOC.
120-45 E. Later developments showed that those
are probably randozvous points for vessels and
their escorts. Those lighted patrols have been
sighted by several submarines in this area.
Submerged for patrol South of RYUKYU SEO on
suspected trafic lanes. Pictured our best chance
for attack would be near instead of closer to
TUNO, three from previous exercises the pressure
of small patrols precludes an efficient patrol
cope patrol.

— page 107 —
5 Aug. (Cont.)
0600 H Sighted a small patrol craft of about 400 tons
boaring 00T., distance 8000 yards, crew in
white coveralls and lookout in both crews
nests. Patrol remained in our vicinity until
11,000, when no disppeared towards T.K.O.A.
Visibility excellent during the day.
1000 LMT. 21-57 HLT. 120-17 E.
Fuel used 92L. 105L. 120-17 E.

1930 E Surfaced and stood South during the night.

6 Aug.
0530 H Tied thirty minutes trim dive.
1700 E S.1.

— page 108 —
6 Aug. (Cont.)
2330 H With one target homed in by three escorts
    figured our chances of a successful attack
    were small. Broke off at 4 o'clock. Target still
    to be in shallow water of China coast by morning,
    precluding a dawn attack.
    WOCH LT. 21-13 H; LC G. 119-13 H.
    Fuel used 1500. -11s 161.

7 Aug. Underway on surface on base course 1740T.
070L H Sirkhod scout bomber bearing 090T. Submerged.
    Rotund torpedoes.
    1045 E Surfaced.
    000 LT. 20-30.5 H; LO G. 118-43 H.
    Fuel used 1601. -11s 201.

8 Aug. Underway on surface on base course 1620T.
1402 E Suikorgod for trim and round to test depth. Mine
    dorse tomoroturo decrease from 200 to 250
    foot.
    1142 E Surfaced.
    1000 LT. 17-00 H; LO G. 11C-50 H.
    Fuel used 1471. -11s 252.

9 Aug. Submerged to close CORRECTOR.
0913 H Sirkhod naval vessel bearing 0710T., range
    7 miles, retrolling on various courses.
    1600 E Sirkhod haspital ship sinkler to YOSINO HAU
    which stood out asort chemical between CORRECTOR and 100H, then stood out on course 3000T.,
    spaced about 12 knots.
    1930 H Surfaced.
    1000 LT. 14-13 H; LO G. 120-18 H.
    Fuel used 1431. -11s 206.

10 Aug. Submerged on course 0500T.
0612 H Sirkhod masts bearing 3010T., range 9,000 yards,
    which was maximum visibility due to morning surface haze.
    0613 H Came loft to 1300 track as target was identi-
    fied as a tanker with a DD escort and another
    smaller escort. AOB 600 S. Estimated spodd 12-
    ll knots.
    0616 H Slord for observation and sighted another tanker
    with C. escort of IRKUSHA class, bearing
    2800, range about 6,500 yards. This first group
    was about 3000 yards to the North of the tanker
    and C. Soa was a fleet calm. Tankors wore
    loaded.

— page 109 —
0622 H: CI headed for us. It shall sncll cngls on bow and wo
    changed sot-up to the CI, but at torpedo run of
    2600 yards ho made a large change of cours to tho
    loft and closed tho tankor. Closost range on
    tankor 4,500 yards. Torqots wors zigging on toso
    cours of 050T. and heading for LUZON POINT.
    It range of 5,000 yards tho changed cours and
    stood into ILL. vi the s.opt chennol.
1504 H: Sichtcd a hospitel ship stnding out of tho swopt
    chennol and heading torrdas TORTOISE ISLTD. Bati-
    mctod tonnage 5000 toas. Similar to S.2.1.

— page 111 —
1600 H  S.S.S. KI.GFISH - Fourth Tor Patrol.
: 1933 H  Surfaced. S.S.S.S. KI.GFISH - Fourth Tor Patrol.
: 2100 H  S.S.S.S. KI.GFISH - Fourth Tor Patrol.
: 2206 H  S.S.S.S. KI.GFISH - Fourth Tor Patrol.
: 15 Aug. 1928 H  Submerged to patrol Western entrance to C.L.VITE.
: 1928 H  Submerged to patrol Western entrance to C.L.VITE.
: 16 Aug. 0215 H  S.S.S.S. KI.GFISH - Fourth Tor Patrol.
: 0325 H  S.S.S.S. KI.GFISH - Fourth Tor Patrol.
: 0325 H  S.S.S.S. KI.GFISH - Fourth Tor Patrol.
: 1913 H  Submerged to patrol Western entrance to C.L.VITE.
: 0628 H  Submerged to patrol Western entrance to C.L.VITE.
: 17 Aug. 0628 H  Submerged to patrol Western entrance to C.L.VITE.
: 2000 H  Submerged to patrol Western entrance to C.L.VITE.
:

— page 112 —
18 Aug.
0513 E
: 19 Aug.
1158 F
: 20 Aug.
0524 E
1112 E
: 21 Aug.
0420 E
1700 H
1900 E
23 Aug.
0428 E
1830 E

U.S.S. KINGFISHER
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISHER - Fourth Per Patrol.

18 Aug.
0513 E
: 19 Aug.
1158 F
: 20 Aug.
0524 E
1112 E
: 21 Aug.
0420 E
1700 H
1900 E
23 Aug.
0428 E
1830 E

Underscored on course 157°T.
Submerged for suspected plane sighting. Probably a large bird.
Surfaced.
HON L.T. 7-16 E; L.C.G. 119-16 E.
Fuel used 1116. Illos 209.
Sighted what appeared to be a submarine (probably GALVING) bearing 272T, range 4 miles. Could have been a small patrol boat. Traversed SISUTU P.S.S.G during the night.

Submerged.
Surfaced and once on course 1220T.
Sighted plane bearing 1350T, range 10 miles.
Submerged. Flying boat type plane.
Surfaced and continued patrol.
HON L.T. 4-12 E; L.C.G. 120-27 E.
Fuel used 1139. Illos 229.

Surface patrol on likely traffic lane from L.C.S.S.R. SMIT to D.V.O. Nothing sighted.
HON L.T. 2-53 E; L.C.G. 122-28 E.
Fuel used 780. Illos 172.

Submerged for patrol off L.T.D.O. Closed harbor to 7,000 yards. No shipping sighted. Numerous small sails sighted. Jap motor launch (50 ft) was sighted overflying off harbor.
Juriliary seaborne of about 200 tons stood into L.T.D.O.
Fuel used 636. Illos 157.

Submerged and closed L.T.D.O. to 5,000 yards. Nothing sighted. One new building sighted close to the village about 150' long, and 50' wide.
Surfaced.
HON L.T. 1-21 E; L.C.G. 125-12 E.
Fuel used 662. Illos 120.

— page 113 —
U.S.S. KINGFISHER
CO. FIDENHILL

Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISHER - Fourth War Patrol.

24. Aug. 0931 E Submerged for patrol. Visibility excellent.
1641 H Surface for patrol. Nothing sighted.
NCCL LT. 1-11 S; LON. 126-13 E.
Fuel used 2047. Miles 241.

25. Aug. 0120 H Sighted what appeared to be a signal light on
Cape H. Decided to spend one day patrolling
off this Cape.

0.1111 H Submerged about six miles south of Cape H.
Excellent visibility. Nothing sighted.

1833 H Surface and stood down trestle line towards
NCCL LT. 2-10 S; LON. 126-00 E.
Fuel used 555. Miles 159.

26. Aug. 1100 H Surface patrol across sunspotted trestle line.
0/0 to 1700. Nothing sighted during the day.
NCCL LT. 3568 S; LON. 12H-37 E.
Fuel used 1028. Miles 190.

27. Aug. 0521 H Submerged about 50 miles north of OBAI STR.IT.
1835 H Surface and traversed OBAI STR.IT. A bright
light similar to an aero-boat was sighted on
the southern tip of KING ISLAND.

2005 E Large fire sighted on TITOR bearing 1600T.
2020 H Sighted a fire on TITOR bearing 1700T.
2305 E Sighted a large fire on TITOR bearing 2100T.
During the 20-21st, which sighted what appeared to
be 5 rod planes, flares on TITOR at different
intervals.
NCCL LT. 7-59 S; LON. 125-25 E.
Fuel used 2517. Miles 272.

28. Aug. 0511 H Submerged to patrol northern entrance to KURING.
Visibility excellent during the foreroom watch.
Nothing sighted except several small sails in
close to the beach.

1835 E Surface.
2015 II Sighted a small boat bearing 2200T., at range of
1000 yards. Sighting a fishing boat or small patrol
boat.
NCCL LT. 9-51 S; LON. 123-30 E.
Fuel used 1550. Miles 205.

— page 114 —
29 Aug.  Underway on the surface.
    MOON L.T. 12-31 S; LOG. 120-26 E.
    Fuel used 2600.  Hilos 268.

: 30 Aug.  Underway on the surface.
    0950 H Sifted a PBY bearing 0700T., range 8 miles on a north-
    only course.  Submerged.
    1026 H Surfaced.
    MOON L.T. 16-26 S; LOG. 116-26 E.
    Fuel used 3421.  Hilos 328.

: 31 Aug.  Underway on surface.
    MOON L.T. 20-22 S; LOG. 112-54 E.
    Fuel used 3500.  Hilos 322.

: 1 Sept.  Underway on surface.
    1310 H Submerged for drills and training.
    1602 H Surfaced.
    MOON L.T. 25-29 S; LOG. 112-16 E.
    Fuel used 5110.  Hilos 310.

: 2 Sept.  Underway on surface.
    0800 H Sifted PX, to the eastward on course North, range
    12 miles.
    MOON L.T. 25-13 ; LOG. 113-00 E.
    Fuel used 2650.  Hilos 228.

: 3 Sept.  Underway on surface.
    Hot escort end proceeded into Fremantle.

— page 119 —
6. AIRCRAFT CO T.CNS.

| Time | LAT. | BEARING | DIST. | COURSE | ALTITUDE | DESCRIPTION |
|------|------||-------||||
| 27   | July | 19-38N  | 2700  | 4 miles| 0°      | 1500 ft. Four engine flying boat, R.D.R. not in use. |
| 7    | Aug. | 20-50N  | 0900  | 5 miles| 0°      | 2000 ft. Sporad to be a scout bomber, R.D.R. not in use. |
| 12   | Aug. | 13-56N  | 1000  | 4 miles| VAR.   | 1500 ft. Type 95 Reconnaissance Bomber. |
| 17   | Aug. | 11-40N  | 0628  | 8 miles| 3400  | 2000 ft. Unable to identify as to type, R.D.R. not in use. |
| 30   | Aug. | 16-09S  | 1000  | 8 miles| 0°      | 2000 ft. Looked similar to PBY. R.D.R. not in use. |
| 2   | Sept. | 28-28S  | 0000  | 12 miles| 0°      | 1500 ft. PBY. Not picked up by R.D.R. |

— page 120 —
7. ATTACK DATA:
U.S.S. KINGFISHER TORPEDO AT-LOOK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 4
Time: 1225 Z DATE: August 6, 1943 L.T.: 21-07N LONG: 118-56
TARGET DATA - DISCLOSED INFLICTED
Description: Single ship similar to P.L.10 NARU with one escort.
    Lector joined by two other escorts.
Ship(s) Sunk: None
Ship(s) Demagod
or Probably Sunk: None
Damage determined by: ---
Target Draft: 16' Course: 3500' Speed: 12 Range: 1800 (at
    firing)

ON SHIP D.T.T.
Spod: 5 knots Course: 2700' Depth: Surface Angle: Surface
    (at firing)

FIRST CONTROL & TORPEDO D.T.T.
Type Attack: Fired 3 stern tubes using R.D.R. ranges and bores
    ing, maximum visibility about 1200 yards due to
    rain and darkness. Infrequent visual bores
    during the approach as visibility would improve
    momentarily. Target zigging on base course
    3500T. R.D.R. ranges and bores in checked very
    closely with the set-up on the T.D.C. This only
    reason advanced for the misses is that perches
    R.D.R. bores may have been inaccurate.

— page 121 —
7 8 9

Track angle: 73P - 74P - 75P.

Gyro angle: 187 186 185

Depth set: 10' 10' 10'

Power: High High High

Hit or Miss: Miss Miss Miss

Erratic: No No No

Herk Torp.: 11-3.1 11-3.1 11-3.1

Serial No: 2L938 2L298 2L268

Herk Exploder: VI-1 VI-1 VI-1

Serial No: 5558 11270 2167

Actuation Set: Contact-Contact-Contact

Actuation
Actual: EED OP RUN

Herk Torpedo: XVI XVI XVI

Serial No: 1L11 6398 1L713

Explosive: TPX TNT TNT

Piring Interval: 10 seconds

Type spread: Divergent - 0 - 20L - 20R

Sea conditions: 3

Overhaul activity: Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

REMARKS:
Torpedo performance normal and torpedo woks torpedo clearly seen after they left the tubes.

— page 122 —
8. INKS:
No mine swooping observed.

9. INSTRUCTIONS:
- Unmoor lighted small vessels as wave sighted in the FORTOS area. In Latitude 21-40 N; Longitude 120-15 E., a line of lighted vessels about 5 miles east was encountered. Direction of line seemed to be about 310°T. Fighter not hit, as escort in vicinity of one of those lighted craft. Probably used for navigation purposes. In the LITTLE ARROWS area patrol vessels were encountered on a line roughly 0400 from C-3R. ISLAND. During the period of full moon, closing CO-2CIDR undetected to any close distance before diving in the morning, is somewhat of a problem. All traffic ceased hospital ships soon to arrive at CORNER-GIDOR in the early morning and deject at evening twilight. The ship was not sighted at 0400. The ship was not sighted

— page 123 —
13. SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS:

The QB sound had was removed during the past New Year overhaul. The keel was made from a JK-CQ one by removing the CQ part of the head and filling the void with glycerin. When the JK-CQ head is fried on a target, sound is heard all around the dial on the QB head. The JK-CQ head operates normally.

Sound conditions were fair in the PORIOS, and IHLI area. Sound conditions were good off HENDO and KHL.

— page 124 —
14. DENSITY LINES:
On 8 August in L'Littude 16-5L H; Longitude 118-5L 3., on 200 to 250 ft. On 12 August a heavy layer was oncountr'd at 200 ft. in L'Littude 11-17 H; Longitude 119-40 2.

15. HELL, FOOD and ELECTRICAL:
The health of the crew was good. Several cases of caterpillar fever which responded to treatment.

Food was adequate and well prepared.

The habitability of the boat was good. The small air-conditioning unit installed by Pearl in the Corning Tower was a most welcome addition.

16. PERSONNEL:
The performance of duty of officers and men was excellent.

17. TILOS STAMED:
11, 781
Fuel used:
81,000

18. DURATION:
Days onroute to area - 18
Days in area - 32
Days onroute to base - 24
Days submerged - 24

19. FLIGHTS OF INSTRUCTOR: 10 0678
Torpedoes - 21
Fuel 19,000 gallons
Provisions - 20 days
Personal - 10 days
Patrol ended in accordance with operation order.

— page 125 —
5-6/16-3
U.S.S. TAUIG, Flesch, 4 September 1943.
C-0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT TO
30 USS KNIGFISH Conf. 1tr.
SS234/16-3 serial 08 of
3. 6. 1943.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron SIX.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. KNIGFISH (2324) - Report of Fourth War Patrol; Comment on.

1. The fourth war patrol of the KNIGFISH was made incident to her temporary transfer from Sub. Arcs, Pacific Fleet to Task Force SEVENTY-ONE. The patrol covered a period of fifty-six days.

2. The KNIGFISH returned from patrol in excellent material condition. The raising of low insulation resistance on main motors and main generators, the renewal of oil seal rings on #2 and #3 main motor forward bearings, and the elimination of sound interference between QC and JK-QC leads are the only major defects reported. All repairs will be accomplished by the PELIAS and relief crew during the normal two weeks refit period assigned.

3. Health and habitability was excellent throughout.

4. The KNIGFISH efficiently covered her assigned area. It was unfortunate that so few firing opportunities presented their selves. A major portion of the patrol was conducted in waters effectively patrolled by enemy air and surface craft. This, in conjunction with glassy seas and excellent visibility made effective surface and submerged patrols extremely difficult. It is noted that the Japanese escort system functioned in a surprisingly efficient manner. It is considered that the firing approach on 6 August was conducted ascreasively and should have culminated successfully. Inaccuracy of radar bearings is the most probable cause of missing The succeeding attempts to penetrate through the escort for further firing were all frustrated by the apparent detection of the submarine by sound or radar. The letter is strongly suspected.

5. This patrol is not considered successful for award of Submarine Combat Insignia.

6. No damage was inflicted on the enemy during this patrol.

A. R. McGANN.

— page 126 —
1. The KINGFISH spent thirty-four (34) days in areas assigned to Task Force SEVENTY-CNE coverage, of which, seven days were spent in the vicinity of BAUXIAN CHANNEL, four days off Southern FORIGNA and eight days off HAITIA. Six contacts were made on vessels of over one thousand tons of which two were Hospital Ships. Coverage of the areas was good but the results are disappointing in that, from information at hand, it is believed that the areas should have been productive of more contacts. The anti-submarine measures encountered are not unusual in these areas and should be expected.

2. This unproductive patrol was made after an extensive Navy Yard overhaul which also included a considerable shake-up in both officer and enlisted personnel. The patrol from April 1943 to April 1944 was conducted in the vicinity of the Varn. The patrol was conducted in

— page 127 —
0/963
Serial: 01963
C-0-N-P-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS KINGFISH conf.1tr.
SS234/A16-3 Serial 08 of
3 September 1943.
From: The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.
To: The Commander in Chief, U.S. FLEET.
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Fourth War Patrol - Report of.
1. Forwarded.

Copy to:
Vice OPNAV.

R. H. CRUZEN,
Acting Chief of Staff.

— page 128 —
3523L/A16-1
SERIALS: 1
DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BYOP-0282C
DATE: 5/13/42
DECLASSIFIED

U.S.S. KINGFISH
Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
November 15, 1943.

The Commanding Officer.
The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Fleet.
Official Channels.

U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

Enclosures:
(A) Subject Report.

1. Enclosure (A) covering the fifth War Patrol of this vessel in areas # 201 and # 202 in the South China Sea during the period September 24, 1943, to November 15, 1943, is forwarded herewith.

V. L. LOMBARD

DECLASSIFIED

62134 FILMED

1 013

— page 129 —
32-43
CONFIDENTIAL OPERATION ORDER

(A) PROLOGUE.

KINGFISH arrived Fremantle, W.A., from 4th war patrol on September 3, 1943. Refit conducted by relief crew of PELLAS. Three days training was allowed and three exercises torpedoes were fired. Conducted deep submargence tests. Departed Fremantle on 24 September 1943.

Patrol instructions directed KINGFISH proceeded Pearl via LOMBOK STRAIT to area 103 and execute special mission, then proceed up Eastern side of MAKASSAR STRAIT via SIBUTU PASSAGE and patrol Eastern approaches to VERDE ISLAND PASSAGE for five days, then patrol area 302 for about twenty days paying attention to approaches to NATURAL AND VERDE ISLAND PASSAGE, departing area 302 at dark on 3 November 1943 and passing to operational control of C.T.F. SEVENTEENTH at 0001 Zebra on 6 November 1943. On 11 October 1943 orders were received to patrol areas 201 and 202 departing for Pearl on 2 November 1943. On 2 November orders were received to return Fremantle instead of Pearl.

— page 130 —
1. NARRATIVE. - All times local.

24 Sept.
1100 H Underway from alongside PULIAS armoured submarine exercise area. Conducted A/S training and made day and night approaches with U.S.S. HENDRICK. Deployed exercise area at 2200 H armoured submarine Gulf via bombing reaction lane.

25 Sept.
1020 H Rade 15 minute trim dive.
1330 H Rade quick dive.
1350 H Rade battle surface and fired 3 rounds from 4" gun for drill.

NOON LAT. 25-17 S; LON. 112-35 E.
Fuel used 2056 - fills 220.

26 Sept.
Underway on surface. Fold fire control drills in afternoon.

NOON LAT. 21-24 S; LON. 112-35 E.
Fuel used 2619 - fills 297.

27 Sept.
1009 H Moor to tanker and fuel to capacity.
1355 H Underway for LONDON STATE.
1630 H Rade thirty minute trim dive.

NOON POSITION - Exmouth Gulf.
Fuel used 2269 - fills 250.

28 Sept.
1055 H Rade 15 minute trim dive.
1320 H Rade quick dive and went to test depth. Held fire control drills.

1411 H Surfacod.

NOON LAT. 17-25 S; LON. 111-46 E.
Fuel used 2700 - fills 271.

— page 131 —
1. U.S.S. KINGFISH
2. SUBJECT: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
3. SUBJECT: 29 Sept.
4. SUBJECT: 10:40 H Made quick dive.
5. SUBJECT: 11:00 H Surfaced.
6. SUBJECT: 13:30 H Made quick dive.
7. SUBJECT: 13:45 H Made battle surface and fired 3 rounds from 4" gun for drill. Held site control drill.
8. SUBJECT: NOON LAT. 12-43 S; LONG. 115-20 E.
9. SUBJECT: Fuel used 1968 - Files 294.
10. SUBJECT: 30 Sept.
11. SUBJECT: 0520 H Submerged on base course 0060T.
12. SUBJECT: 0700 H Sighted NUSA BESAR bearing North, distance 40 miles.
13. SUBJECT: 1921 H Surfaced.
14. SUBJECT: 2008 H Commenced transit of LONBOK STRAIT.
15. SUBJECT: 2225 H Completed transit. Sighted numerous fires and lights on NUSA BESAR and BALI.
16. SUBJECT: NOON LAT. 9-14 S; LONG. 115-14 E.
17. SUBJECT: Fuel used 1505 - Files 220.
18. SUBJECT: 1 Oct.
19. SUBJECT: 0526 H Submerged.
20. SUBJECT: 1015 H Surfaced.
21. SUBJECT: 1142 H Sighted and closed 25 ton sailboat. Went close aboard, fired shot across his bow, and told him in MALAY to douse his sails. He broke out Jap flag and attempted to escape. Sank sailboat with 3 rounds from 4" gun. Attempted to pick up two survivors but they kept diving under wreckage. Crew of two Japs and about four natives.
22. SUBJECT: LAT. 7-00 S; LONG. 117-10 E.
23. SUBJECT: 1145 H Sighted similar sailboat. Closed him and fired shot across his bow. Brought him alongside and put boarding party aboard. Sail in ballast bound for LONBOK. Confiscated his papers and allowed him to proceed. A native crew of ten aboard including two women and two small children.
24. SUBJECT: NOON LAT. 7-02 S; LONG. 117-13 E.
25. SUBJECT: Fuel used 1292 - Files 160.

— page 133 —
5 Oct. 1537 H: 1558 H: 6 Oct. 0505 H: 1050 H: 1855 H: 7 Oct. 0503 H: 1855 H: 8 Oct. 0850 H: 0855 H: 0905 H: 1055 H: 1210 H:

— page 134 —
1830 H
U.S.S. KINGFISHER - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

SANDAKAN: 1830 H
Noon L.A.T. 7-04 N; 1106. 115-51 E.
Fuel used 1209 - 116s 168.

9 Oct.
0457 H
Submerged off LABIAN POINT.
0520 H
Sighted tanker and escort bearing 0400, AOB zero, range 12,000 yards. Corroded approach.
0557 H
Fired four torpedoes from stern tubes, 90 track, 1360 yards range. Escort which looked like DD or AH spooded up and headed for us with a decreasing angle on bow, range 1500 yards just as we fired, I believe he had a sound contact. Seas flat calm.
0557-50 H
Second torpedo explosion.
Other two torpedoes failed to explode. As soon as we fired, went ahead full for two minutes, changed course and went deep. Escort hunted for next 2 hours sometimes pinging and sometimes listening.
0736 H
Escort dropped ten depth charges during the next half hour - none close.
0900 H
Periscope depth. Target in sight, bearing 3000T, range 8 miles, headed aft, escort still searching in vicinity of target and pinging. Continuing.
Cut in our position and found we were only about two miles off the North end of SIBUTU ISLAND with a southern current of 3 knots setting us on the beach. Tried usinr 2/3 speed but made little headway, finally, resorted to standard speed to haul olor. After a careful estimate of the situation decided not to attempt to close the tanker during daylight for the following reasons: (1) his engineering spaces are flooded and he is steadily settling lower in the water, (2) the current is setting us on the shoals and to close the target will require most of our battery capacity.

— page 135 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH
:  SUBJECT:  U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

(3) this leaves us with a low battery in a confined area where the prevailing current sets us towards the island water to the South, (14) at nightfall we can surface and locate him if he is still afloat. Tanker similar to NIPPON TANRU, Page 263, ONI 208-J. 1300 H Target drifting South and he scuttled lower in the water. 1915 H Surfaced and put in quick charge. Sont contact report to C.T.F. 71. 2100 H Commenced search for tanker. 2231 H Siphtod enemy escort vessel patrolling about 10 miles South of LABLAN POINT. Also siphtod what appeared to be a smaller patrol vessel. The tanker was not in sight. To do not boliove the escort vessel would have loft the tanker if it were still afloat. Cleared the area to the northward.

NOON LAT. 5-01 N; LONG. 119-20 E.  Fuel used 1036 - Kilos 168.

10 Oct. 0,455 H Submerged. 1026 H Surfaced and petrrolled traffic lane NE of SANDAKAN. Intond to reconnoiter SANDAKAN tomorrow. 2300 H Received message from C.T.F. 71 202. Sot course for area via BALABAG STRAIT and PALAWAN PASSAGE.

NOON LAT. 6-71 N; LONG. 119-24 E.  Fuel used 985 - Kilos 173.

11 Oct. Undarway on the surface. 2300 H Completed transit of BALABAG STRAIT.

NOON LAT. 8-09 N; LONG. 118-22 E.  Fuel used 1351 - Kilos 267.

12 Oct. 0535 H Made half-hour trim divo.

NOON LAT. 9-55 N; LONG. 117-43 E.  Fuel used 1729 - Kilos 300.

— page 136 —
13 Oct.
1030 H Lade quick divo.
1044 H Surfaced.

NOON LAT. 12-12 N; LONG. 116-17 E.
Puel used 1144 - Hills 2145.

14 Oct.
Surface patrol across traffic lane SINGAPORE TAKAO.
0600 H Lade quick divo.
0630 H Surfaced.

Nothing sighted during the day.

NOON LAT. 12-19 N; LONG. 112-19 E.
Puel used 1266 - Hills 222.

15 Oct.
Surface patrol.
1035 H Submerged for trim.
1111 H Surfaced.

NOON LAT. 12-59 N; LONG. 112-35 E.
Puel used 692 - Hills 169.

16 Oct.
0609 H Submerged for trim.
0630 H Surfaced.
0915 H Sighted smoke on the horizon bearing 0760T, range approximately 20 miles. Smoke drawing to eastward. Increased speed and changed course to get ahead of convoy and commenced tracking. Convoy of 4 ships can just be made out thru high periscope. Convoy appears to be on base course of 2050T.
1045 H With convoy bearing 0350T, range approximately 20 miles, a float type plane was sighted diving toward us from high altitude.
1045 H Submerged.
1047 H Plane dropped two depth charges (small) and two aerial bombs. 3D radar out of order due to lack of condensor spares.

1130 H Poriscope depth. Sighted plane range 4 miles going behind a cloud.

— page 137 —
1220 H Sighted convoy bearing 0740T, with 900 starboard angle on the bow - range 8 miles. Convoy consisting of what appeared to be four AK'S and one or two escorts.
1222 H Came to normal approach course at standard speed.
1300 H Hoard echo ranging and sighted a DD heading across our bow at speed of about 25 knots, range 8000 yards. Destroyer stayed between us and convoy until 1130 H when ho disappeared on a SE course. Closest range to DD was 7,000 yards.
1605 H Surfaced to chase convoy. SD radar had been repaired with only spare from S3 - not a good practice as S3 is much more valuable to us. Upon surfacing, all was clear on SD radar but at this time, sighted float type plane painted silver color, coming out of cloud towards us, range about 4 miles. Not the same plane sighted at 1045 H as that one was painted a dark color.
1607 H Submerged - in a hurry.
1850 H Surfaced. Decided our best chance of contact was to get ahead of convoy on his base course and try to intercept him at daylight since he had such a long start on us.

NOON LAT. 13-14 N; LONG. 111-30 E.
Fuel used 933 - Kilos 192.

17 Oct. Underway at 17 knots during the night on course 2100T. No contact during the night.
0600 H Submerged at estimated 1100 H position of convoy as determined from previous tracking. Poriscopo observations at 56 foot. Romaned submerged during the morning as I believe this is our best chance to get in on convoy since he has an air scooter, and the weather is hazy with scattered clouds.
1566 H Surfaced and commenced surface patrol.
1645 H Sighted ship bearing 2320T, range 7 miles with small angle on bow. Submerged for approach. Came to normal approach course.

— page 138 —
1650 H
Observation showed destroyer with 50-100 port angle on bow, range about 10,000 yards. Looks like aro in a good position. Hovevor not observation showed angle on bow of 100. About five minutes later DD prasontod 900 angle on bow and passed us at range of 6,000 yards, spood 17 knots.
1900 H
Surfaced and started patrol on course 0750T, hoping DD was going out to most shipping.
2000 H
c/c to 0550T. No contacts during the night.

18 Oct.
Surface patrol.
1033 H
Submerged for 1/2 hour trim dive.
NOON LAT. 11-59 N; LONG. 112-16 E.
Fuel used 992 - Miles 170.

19 Oct.
Surface patrol.
1300 H
Submerged for 10 minute trim dive.
NOON LAT. 12-11 N; LONG. 112-17 E.
Fuel used 636 - Miles 182.

Will close coast during the night.

20 Oct.
0516 H
Submerged off CAPE VARELIA for patrol.
1350 H
Sighted AK boaring 35LT, range 6 miles, course about 1750T.
1433 H
Corroboof firing spread of 4 torpedoes from bow tubes, range 1600 yards. Obsorvod on torpedo hit under bridge. About twenty seconds later on torpedo hit at. This after part of the ship sank immediately and to upoarod to break in two aft of bridge. Large lifeboat with about 50 people in it heading for the boach. Ono large cargo box about 20 foot square floating in water along with much dobris from ship. A forward portion of the ship including the bridge is floating at an up angle of 50. Took pictures.
1510 H
Can still soo about 75 foot of bow almost vortical now. Commorced clearing area.

— page 139 —
15143 H
Sighted flot type plane circling place of sinking.
Ship was a loaded engines-aft AK of an estimated
5000 tons. Estimated length 400 foot. Three goal
post masts. Mast, bridge, mast, mast, and funn. 1926 H
Surface and stood out from coast during the night.

NOON LAT. 12-42 N; LONG. 109-32 E.
Fuol used 781 - Miles 196.

21 Oct.
Surface patrol.
1030 H
Submerged for trim.
1054 H
Surface.

NOON LAT. 12-45 N; LONG. 111-16 E.
Fuol used 937 - Miles 180.

22 Oct.
Surface patrol.
1031 H
Submerged.
1055 H
Surface.

NOON LAT. 11-10 N; LONG. 112-34 E.
Fuol used 637 - Miles 172.

23 Oct.
Surface patrol.
1016 H
Submerged.
1109 H
Surface.

NOON LAT. 11-28 N LONG. 110-43 E.
Fuol used 637 - Miles 173.

24 Oct.
Submerged for patrol off NUOK ISLAND. Nothing
sighted.
1900 H
Surface.

NOON LAT. 11-22 N; LONG. 109-15 E.
Fuol used 102 - Miles 205.

25 Oct.
Submerged for patrol.
1919 H
Surface.

NOON LAT. 11-06 N; LONG. 109-22 E.
Fuol used 613 - Miles 94.

— page 140 —
26 Oct.
05H H Submerged for patrol off CAPE VARELLA.
1903 H Surfaced. Having sighted nothing along the
coast for three days, decided to try the off
shore traffic lanes again.

NOON LAT. 12-55 N; LONG. 109-35 E.
Fuol used 131 - Hilos 115.

27 Oct.
1100 H Submerged.
1300 H Surfaced.
Soas becoming heavy from NE with frequent rain
squalls.

NOON LAT. 12-58 N; LONG. 111-15 E.
Fuol used 660 - Hilos 126.

28 Oct.
0626 H Submerged.
1835 H Surfaced. Nothing sighted during the day. Weather
rainy and soas heavy.

NOON LAT. 13-10 N; LONG. 112-19 E.
Fuol used 149 - Hilos 85.

29 Oct.
0700 H Sighted unidentified plane, range 5 milos, which
disappeared on course about 2500T. Did not dive.

1100 H Submerged.
1300 H Surfaced.

NOON LAT. 13-21 N; LONG. 113-06 E.

30 Oct.
1300 H Submerged.
1315 H Surfaced.

NOON LAT. 13-18 N; LONG. 113-38 E.
Fuol used 640 - Hilos 111.

— page 141 —
31 Oct. 1030 H 1122 H
: 1 Nov. 1030 H 1055 H
: 2 Nov. 1032 H 1046 H
: 3 Nov. 1031 H 1049 H
: 4 Nov. 1012 H 1111 H 1751 H 1847 H 2215 H 2334 H
: 5 Nov. 1010 H 1111 H 1751 H 1847 H 2215 H 2334 H

: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
: NOON LAT. 11-10 N; LONG. 111-49 E.
: FUEL used 561 - HILOS 148.
: NOON LAT. 11-05 N; LONG. 113-42 E.
: FUEL used 789 - HILOS 106.
: NOON LAT. 11-35 N; LONG. 111-28 E.
: FUEL used 726 - HILOS 160.
: Undorway on surface.
: NOON LAT. 13-37 N; LONG. 116-50 E.
: FUEL used 1587 - HILOS 212.
: Undorway on surface in PALAWAN PASSAGE.
: NOON LAT. 9-27 N; LONG. 117-14 E.
: FUEL used 2493 - HILOS 283.
: Undorway on surface in SULU SEA.

— page 142 —
0815 H Sighted friendly submarine "booring 250°T, range 15 miles.
0952 H U.S.S. BLUEFISH came alongside and transferred sick officer to KINGFISH for further transfer to Promantlo. Exchanged area information with BLUEFISH.

1015 H Submerged.
1056 H Surfaced.
1710 H Sighted PEARL BANK boaring 189°T, distance 15 miles.
2230 H Completed transit of SUBUTU PASSAGE.

6 Nov. 1016 H Submerged.
1109 H Surfaced.
1821 H Crossed equator.

7 Nov. 0115 H Number 3 main engine out of commission due to derangomont of blovor. So major dofoc's.

0623 H Submerged.
0801 H Surfaced. Sighted soverel small sail boats during the day.

NOON LAT. 1-08 S; LONG. 118-03 E.
Fuo1 used 3019 - Hilos 354.

8 Nov. 0520 H Submerged for the day.
0630 H Sighted SEKELA ISLAND boaring 255°T, distance 11 miles.
0938 H Sighted and took pictures of a U. S. submarine on a northerly course, range 7,000 yards. Thought to be "the BILLFISH." Sighted six small sail boats during the day.

— page 143 —
1850 H  Surfaced.
NOON LAT. 7-10 S; LONG. 116-22 E.
Fuel used 1291 - Miles 203.

9 Nov.
0001 H  Commenced transit of LONBOK STRAIT looping to the Vost side of the strait.
0240 H  Completed transit of LONBOK STRAIT. Nothing sighted except a few lights and fires on the beach.
0415 H  Sighted a light to the southwest, range about 10 miles.
0500 H  Submerged since we are only 35 miles from LONBOK.
0525 H  Sighted small Japanese patrol vessel whose light had been. About 200 tons with high forward mast. This patrol came south until 0700 H when he reversed course and disappeared to the northward.

1915 H  Surfaced.
NOON LAT. 9-34 S; LONG. 115-42 E.
Fuel used 1500 - Miles 168.

10 Nov.
1030 H  Underway on surface.
1100 H  Surfaced.
NOON LAT. 12-29 S; LONG. 111-43 E.
Fuel used 2100 - Miles 194.

11 Nov.
1035 H  Underway on surface.
1115 H  Surfaced.
NOON LAT. 16-40 S; LONG. 113-35 E.
Fuel used 2400 - Miles 271.

12 Nov.
1040 H  Underway on surface.
1105 H  Surfaced.
1530 H  Submerged.
1545 H  Surfaced.

— page 144 —
U.S.S. KINGFISHER
CONFIDENTIAL
Sub ject:  U.S.S. KINGFISHER- Report of Fifth War Patrol.

NOON LAT. 21-06 S; LONG. 112-39 E.
Fuel used 2750 - Hilos 271.

13 Nov. 10H 10H 1100 H
Undorway on surface.
Submerged for trim.
Surfaced.

NOON LAT. 25-45 S; LONG. 112-20 E.
Fuel used 2550 - Hilos 250.

14 Nov. 10H 1105 H
Undorway on surface.
Submerged for trim.
Surfaced.

NOON LAT. 29-30 S; LONG. 110-13 E.
Fuel used 2145 - Hilos 2554.

15 Nov. 0500 H
Hot escort and prorogued into Fronntic.

— page 145 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:  U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

2. WEATHER:
The weather agreed in general with the Coast Pilot.

3. TIDAL INFORMATION

Tables

Oct. 13 to Oct. 14 - Current set 020°, drift 1 knot
    Between Lat. 120-12',5' N    Lat. 120-19'5' N
    116°-17',6' E &    112°-19',3' E

Oct. 14 - Oct. 15 - Current set 090°, drift 2.9 knots
    Between Lat. 120-19',5' N    Lat. 120-59' N
    112°-19',3' E &    112°-35',5' E

Oct. 15-Oct. 16 - Current set 092°, drift 1.8 knots
    Between Lat. 120-59',5' N    Lat. 120-31',3' N
    112°-35',5' E &    111°-19' E

Oct. 16 - Oct. 17 - Current set 355°, drift 1.9 knots
    Between Lat. 120-51',5' N    Lat. 100-39',5' N
    111°-17' E &    110°-15' E

Oct. 17 - Oct. 18 - Current set 005°, drift 1.9 knots
    Between Lat. 100-39',5' N    Lat. 110-59',3' N
    110°-65' E &    112°-16' E

Oct. 18 - Oct. 19 - Current set 025°, drift 1.1 knots
    Between Lat. 120-00' N    Lat. 12-11',5' N
    111°-15' E &    112°-18' E

Oct. 19 - Oct. 20 - Current set 178°, drift 1.8 knots
    Between Lat. 120-11',5' N    Lat. 120-12' N
    112°-17' E &    109°-32',2' E

Oct. 20 - Oct. 21 - Current set 006°, drift 2 knots
    Between Lat. 120-12' N    Lat. 120-45',5' N
    109°-32',2' E &    111°-16' E

Oct. 21 - Oct. 22 - Current set 322°, drift 1.2 knots
    Between Lat. 12-45',5' N    Lat. 114-10',5' N
    111°-16' E &    112°-34'15' E

— page 146 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH
COMPIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

Oct. 22 - Oct. 23 - Current set 2000T, drift 1.6 knots
Between Lat. 110-16,6 N & 1120-20,1 E & 1100-34,1 E

Oct. 23 - Oct. 24 - Current set 2000T, drift 1.6 knots
Between Lat. 110-16,6 N & 1100-34,1 E & 1090-15,1 E

Oct. 24 - Oct. 25 - Current set 1780T, drift 2 knots
Between Lat. 110-15,1 N & 1090-30,1 E & 1090-22,1 E

Oct. 25 - Oct. 26 - Current set 1690T, drift 2.5 knots
Between Lat. 118-09,1 N & 1090-30,1 E & 1090-32,1 E

Oct. 26 - Oct. 27 - Current set 1700T, drift 1 knot
Between Lat. 120-09,1 N & 1110-15,1 E & 1110-15,1 E

Oct. 27 - Oct. 28 - Current set 1300T, drift 6 knots
Between Lat. 130-00,1 N & 1110-15,1 E & 1110-15,1 E

Oct. 28 - Oct. 29 - Current set 3300T, drift 8 knots
Between Lat. 120-38,1 N & 1120-47,1 E & 1120-47,1 E

Oct. 29 - Oct. 30 - Current set 1350T, drift 2 knots
Between Lat. 130-39,1 N & 1130-24,1 E & 1130-37,1 E

Oct. 30 - Oct. 31 - Current set 1650T, drift 2 knots
Between Lat. 130-30,1 N & 1120-55,1 E & 1110-19,1 E

Oct. 31 - Nov. 1 - Current set 0900T, drift 7 knots
Between Lat. 110-29,1 N & 1120-19,1 E & 1130-42,1 E

— page 147 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject:  U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

Nov. 1 - Nov. 2 - Current sort 2350T, drift 1.3 knots.
    Between Lat. 140-10' N    Lat. 140-35' N
    1130-42' E    &    1110-20' E

Nov. 2 - Nov. 3 - Current sort 0350T, drift 1 knot.
    Between Lat. 150-15' N    Lat. 130-36' N
    1150-06' E    &    1160-50' E

4. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

DENT HAVEN LIGHT on the Northeast Coast of BORNEO was burning with the normal characteristics. No other navigational lights sighted.

— page 148 —
5. SHIP CONTACTS:
   - Tino Lat. Init. Est.
   - No. Data Long. Type Range Cont. REMARKS
   1. 0105 7-21 N A0,DD, 36000 2500 2500 Surface A0 of HPPON HANU
    8 Oct 119-09E or AM Yds 10 kts Day class escort by
   2. 2130 5-10 H A0 12000 2100 Subgd. Some as above. Pirod
    8 Oct 119-11E DD or AM Yds 9 kts Poris. four storm tubes and
   3. 0115 13-33 N 4 AK 10000 2050 Surface Convoy of four AKI's
    16 Oct 111-52E 1 DD Yds 10 kts Day and one DD escort
   4. 0815 10-15 N DD of 14000 0750 Surface Sichtod DD with
    17 Oct 110-06E KURI Yds 17 kts Day small angle on bow.
   5. 0550 12-36N AK 12000 1750 Subgd. Thrinos aft AK of
    20 Oct 109-30E yds. 9 kts. Poris. 5000 tons
   6.

— page 149 —
5. SHIP CONTACTS (Cont)
: 5.1. Subj. 5.2. Time 5.3. Lat. 5.4. Init. 5.5. Crs. 5.6. How 5.7. No. 5.8. Data 5.9. Long. 5.10. Type 5.11. Range 5.12. Spoed 5.13. Cont. 5.14. REMARKS

: 2100 30 miles A/S 8000. VAR. Subj. Small A/S traw- 8 Nov 3. of 3. of 200 tons. LOMBOK STRAIT

: 2100 30 miles A/S 8000. VAR. Subj. Small A/S traw- 8 Nov 3. of 3. of 200 tons. LOMBOK STRAIT

— page 150 —
6. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS
| Time | Lat. | Long. | Type | Init. | Est. | Fow | Ranges | Cont. | Alt. | REMAINS |
|------|------|-------|------|-------|------|------||-------|------||
| 0100 | 4-01'S| Singlo| 6 ntl| 270° | Surf.| 1000| ft.   | Reder | not | in uso duo |
| 3 Oct| 118-39E| ongin|       |       | Day  |       |       |       |       | to claer | visibility|
| 0606 | 3-00 S| Fichtor| 5 mlt| 270° | Surf.| 500| Ft.   | Turned | towards| us as wo sub-|
| 3 Oct| 118-28E| Plano|       |       | Day  |       |       |       |       | morgod.|
| 02L5 | 13-14 N| Float| 4 mlt| 220° | Surf.| 2000| Singlo| onginio| plane | similar|
| 16 Oct| 111-32 E| Plano|       |       | Day  |       |       |       |       | to our KING-|
| 0330 | Sichtd| samo| or| similar| plane.| Range| 4 milos.|        |        |        | FISHER.|
| 16 Oct| Sichtd| by| poris| sopo| subm|orgo|d.     |        |        |        |        |
| 0807 | 13-07 N| Float| 4 Nlt| 0°   | Surf.| 1000| Hot| dototod| by| Reder.|
| 16 Oct| 111-28E| Plano|       |       | Day  |       |       |       |       | Similar |
| 07L3 | 12-36N| Float| 3 Nlt| VAR.| Subgd.| 400| Similar| to our|        |        | KINGFISHER|
| 20 Oct| 109-30E| Plano|       |       | Day  |       |       |       |       |        |
| 2300 | 13-19 N| - - | 5 Nlt| 250° | Surf.| 1500| Unclbl| to idon-|        |        | tify as to type.|
| 20 Oct| 113-08 E|       |       |       | Day  |       |       |       |       |        |
| 0951 | 8-16N| Singlo| 3 Nlt| 270° | Surf.| 1500|        |        |        |        |        |
| 4 Nov| 116-34E| ongin|       |       | Day  |       |       |        |       |        |

— page 151 —
7. ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. KINGFISH TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 5
Tino: 2130 GCT Dato: 10-3-13 Lat. 05°-10' N Long. 119-10' .8E
TARGET DATA - DETECTED
Description: Storn tubo shot, fired on one ship, escortod, ship was in ballast, two hits out of four fired. Ship took heavy draft aft and drifted, propollod by tho current only. Out of range of vision submerged.
Ship(s) Sunk: 10,000 ton tankor, NIPPON HLRU (ONI 208-J, pg.263)
Ship(s) damaged or Probably Sunk: NONE
Damage determined by: Report from Commander Tnsk Force 71.
Target Draft: 19 ft. Course: 218°T Spood: 9 knots Range: 1360 yds.

OWN SHIP DATA
Spoed: 3 knots Course: 130°T Depth: 66 ft. Angle at firing: 0°
FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Piriod at target with four storm tubos at 8 second intervals, true boring of target at firing, 319°. Approach had lasted 37 minutes after having docked up tho target end escort boaring 0,000, range 12,000 yards, from portiscopo depth. Two hits out of four fired, Ranson for two misses was tho large spood used, covering 120% of tho target length. Other two torodocs did not oxplodo at ond of run. When lest observod at 0500 GCT, 9 October 1913, tho target was well down astorn with docks aft almost awash and gradually settling as ho drifted out of sight. This target subsequently sank according to information received from C.T.F. 7A.

— page 152 —
7 8 9 10
Tubos Firad: $ 90 92 93 94
Track Angle: 178 176 175 174
Gyro Angle: 8 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft
Depth Set: High High High High
Povor: Hit Hit Miss Miss
Hit or Miss: No No No No
Eeratic: All torpedoes, 1k XIV, 1od. 3-A
Tork Torpedo: 24336 22655 21410 21372
Serial No.: 1001 5065 10523 17829
Tork Explodes: All set to explode numerically.
Serial No.: 6313 2181 3717 2477
Explosive: TPX-2 TTPX-2 TPX-2
Tiring interval: 10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec.
Type spread: 0° 0° 14° R 14° L
Son conditions: Flat calm, 1.o., Condition 0.
Ovorhaul activity: SUBIACO TORPEDO SHOP, Porth, W.A.
Remarks: All ran hot, straight and normal.

— page 153 —
7. ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. KINGFISH TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 FATROL NO. 5

Time: 2130 GMT Date: 10-8-43 Lat. 05°-10' N Long. 119-10' .8E

TARGET DATA - DATABASE INFLICTED

Description: Stern tube-shot, fired on one ship, escorted, ship was in ballast, two hits out of four fired. Ship took heavy draft aft and drifted, propelled by the current only. Out of range of vision submerged.

Ship(s) Sunk: None 'Intnessed.

Ship(s) damaged or Probably Sunk: 10,000 ton tanker, NIFTON MATU (OII-208-J, fig. 263).

Managed determined by: Observation.

Target: 19 ft. Course: 2185T Speed: 9 knots Range: 1360 yds.

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 3 knots. Course: 130° T Depth: 66 ft. Angle at firing: 0°

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Fired at target with four stern tubes at 8 second intervals, true bearing of target at firing, 319°. Approach had lasted 37 minutes after having picked up the target and escort bearing 040°T, range 12,000 yards, from periscope depth. Two hits out of four fired. Reason for two misses was the large spread used, covering 120% of the target length. Other two torpedoes did not explode at end of run. Then last observed at 0500 GMT, 9 October, 1943, the target was well down astern with ducks aft almost awash and gradually settling as he drifted out of sight.

— page 154 —
7 8 9 10
Track Angle: 90 92 93 94
Cyro Angle: 178 176 175 174
Depth Set: 8 ft 10 ft 8 ft 10 ft
Rover: High High High High
Lit or Miss: Hit Hit Miss Miss
Erratic: No No No No
Lerk Torpedo: All torpedoes, Mk XIV, Icd. 3-A
Serial No.: 21336 22655 21410 21472
Lerk Exploders: All exploders were Lerk VI, Icd. 1.
Serial No.: 10041 5065 10523 17829
Lertion Set: All set to explode magnetically.
Lertion Actual: -

Lerk Warhead: All warheads were Mk. XVI
Serial No.: 6313 21401 3717 21477
Explosive: TXK-2 TNT TPX-2 TPX-2
Piring Intervall: - 10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec.
Type Spread: 0° 0° 4° R 4° L
Sea Conditions: Flat calm, I.c.o., Condition 0.
Overnight Activity: SUBICCO TORPEDO SHOP, Perth, W.A.
Remarks: All ran hot, straight and normal.

— page 155 —
7. ATTACK DATA (Cont)
U.S.S. KNIGFISH TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL NO. 5
Timo: 0633 GCT  Dat: 10-20-43  Lat.12°-36'N  Long.109°-30'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE ATTACKED

Description: Cargo vessel of an estimated 5,000 tons with engines aft and three sets of "Goal Post" type masts.

Ship(s) SunK: Onc, as above.

Ship(s) Damaged or probably sunk: NONE.

Damage determined by: Saw target break in half and the after half sink. Worn last soon, the bow and bridge structure wore floating at a 50° angle, up by the bow.

Target Draft: 14 ft. Course: 175°T  Spocd: 9 kts. Range 1460 yds. (At firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Spocd: 3 knots  Course: 250°D  Depth: 65° ft.  Angle: 0°

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged attack, daylight. Target sighted bearing 33°0'D, distance 12,000 yards. Closed range to 1500 yards, 095° port track angle. Fired four torpedoes, range 1,460, spread, 0-3L-3R-0. Second and fourth hit. First hit was directly under the bridge (point of aim) and the second aft, about fifty foot forward of the stern. Second hit blew off the after aft two sets of masts, opened the after cargo hold and caused cargo to be blown from the hold. Target then broke at approximately the point of contact of the first hit. All torpedoes set on ten foot. All second to be hot, straight and normal. Two torpedoes that missed did not explode at end of run.

1 013

— page 156 —
3 # 1 # 5 # 6
Track Angle: 93 P 96 P 92 P 99 P
Gyro Angle: 001# 359 003 356
Dopth Set: 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft.
Power: High High High High
Hit or Miss: Miss Hit Miss Hit
Erratic: No No No No
Mark Torpedo: All torpedoes 1k. XIV, Mod. 3-A.
Serial No.: 21371 23776 22608 25050
Mark Exploder: All exploders 1k. VI, Mod. 1
Serial No.: 9590 8905 13315 7839
Actuation Set: Negative actuation on all.
Actuation Actual: Probably contact.
Mark Warhead: All warheads Mark XVI
Serial No.: 2L88 . 5297 6390 6112
Explosive: TPX-2 TPX-2 TPX-2 TPX-2
Firing Interval: 8 sec. 8 sec. 16 sec.
Type spread: 0 3 L 3 R 0
Sea conditions: Flat, with small whitecaps, condition 2.
Ovorhaul activity: SUBLAOO TOPPEDO SHOP, Porth, W.A.
Remarks: All ran hot, straight and normal.

— page 157 —
1. S.S. KINGFISH
UNIDENTICAL
II. S.S. KINGFISH
Run Action No. 1 Patrol No. 5
Time 0522 GOT Date: 1 October Lat. 7-00 3 Long. 117-10E.
TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
Junk: One sailing sampan of an estimated 25 tons.
"Managed or
Probably Sunk: NONE

DETAILS OF ACTION:
Went close aboard sampan and fired shot across his bow. Told him in 'ALAY language to douse his sails. He hoisted the JAP flare and attempted to escape. Expanded 3 rounds of 4" ammunition to sink him. There were two Japs and four natives aboard. It attempted to pick up two survivors, but they would not be rescued.

— page 158 —
9. 4/3 MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

The tanker attacked on 9 October was escorted by a DD or AAV. His 4/3 measures were rated although sound conditions were extremely poor in this area off LAHAINA POINT and density layers were prevalent. Also his depth charges sounded like the smallest ones we have heard in five patrols.

The planes escorting the convoy on 16 October were tenacious and one of them remained in our vicinity all afternoon. The plane that dropped the depth charges and bombs on us seemed slow in coming in for his run.

A float type plane appeared about 15 minutes after we sank the 4K off CAFE VACILLA on 20 October. There are numerous BAYS in the vicinity of CAFE VACILLA which could easily serve as seaplane bases.

The bathythemeograph was used daily and found to be of great value in trimming the boat and also in evasive tactics.

Evasion tactics consisted of going under a good layer, if present, and using silent running.

10. MAJOR DEFECTS

The following casualties to main propulsion machinery occurred during the Fifth 'ar Patrol.

— page 159 —
15-AP9B-35L1N, Pc. 32 (pair).
2. Impellor shaft bearing, inner 15-AP9B-35L1J, Pc.
3. Impellor shaft bearing, outer, 15-AP9B-35L1J, Pc.
4. Impellor shaft key, 15-AP9B-35L1L, Pc. # 39.
5. Impellor shaft key, 15-AP9B-35L1L, Pc. # 40.
6. Oil rotainer, 15-AP9B-35L1T, Pc. # 49.
7. Oil rotainer ring, 15-AP9B-35L1, Pc. # 50.
8. Outer bearing shim (.003), 15-AP9B-35L1J, Pc. #59.
9. Outer bearing shim (.005), 15-AP9B-35L1J, Pc. #60.
10. Outer bearing shim (.010), 15-AP9B-35L1J, Pc. # 61.

— page 160 —
1. Outer bearing plate, 15-AF9B-35h1E, Pc. 87. 113, 147. (This may not need replacement).
2. Timing gear driving flange, 15-AF9B-35h1L, Pc. # 65. (May not need replacement).
3. The cause of the casualty cannot be determined with assurance. It is thought that the oil retainer rings carried away allowing oil to enter the blower.
   This caused an excessive accumulation of oil and dirt. Other possible reasons are flaking of the impollers, boring failure or excessive wear of bearings which resulted in a loss of clearance between the blower lobes.
4. The casualty to Number Four Min Motor (Elliott Main Motor) was caused by excessive vibration resulting from uneven commutator. This caused the two soft copper rivets which secure the spring shoe to the brush to carry away. S63-0124, Pc. 12, Pl. #F-895.
   This was in part due to defocilltoyr disom of the brush- os. It is thought that if the spring shoe were to extend down both sides of the brush the rivets could not be damaged by vibration.
5. The insulation readings on the main motor armatures prior to leaving Plymouth on this patrol were as follows on 23 September 1943:
   # 1 Main Motor - 300,000 ohms.
   # 2 Main Motor - 1 mogohm.
   # 3 Main Motor - 300,000 ohms.
   # 4 Main Motor - 600,000 ohms.
   Readings were taken on 27 September 1943 prior to leaving Exmouth Gulf and were as follows:
   # 1 Main Motor - 300,000 ohms.
   # 2 Main Motor - 1 mogohm.
   # 3 Main Motor - 200,000 ohms.
   # 4 Main Motor - 600,000 ohms.

— page 161 —
11. RADIO
Radio reception was complete. Signals from VIXO
woro usually week between 2 and 3 hours of 0100 and 0900
ZEBRA.

12. RADAR
Period of report from 24 Sept. 1943 to 15 Nov. 1943.
Model SJ Serial Number 5
Date of installation - 30 June 1943.
Total hours of operation to date - 2700 hrs.; during
this period - 550 hours.

Remarks:
Maximum
Relligible
Type Target
Altitude
52,000 yds.
Mountains - BALT
10,000 ft.
10,000 yds.
8,000 yds.
DD
3,000 yds.
3,000 yds.
25 ton sailboat
1,500 yds.
Loaded rubber lifeboat
Radar Officer and name of Radar School attondod:
F. B. PHILLIPS, Ensign, D-(V)G, USNR
No Radar School attondod

Namos and rates of Personnel qualified in Radar Training
bombard and names of Radar Schools attondod: G. L. JEWETT,
R.I.I.L., USN, - 5 woks short course on USS ZELIAS by
factory roporsontativs; S. BUTCHER, R.T.2C., USNR,
Radio Material School at Texas A & E College, and Trossuro
Island, California; end Radar School at Submarine Base,
Nor London, Connecticut.

— page 162 —
27 September 1943

Magneton filament shorted to body, burning out
R-14, and damaging R-13 which resulted in loss of sweep,
and "A" Regulated Rotifiler voltage dropped to 100 volts.
Rollsaeed Magneton, R-13, and R-14.

1 November 1943

No transmitter pulse. Channel 722-A (thyratron
tube).

3 November 1943

Echoes in spore oscillator-convortor faded out when
equipment heated up. Channel thermostat (TD-101) in
oscillator-convortor.

4 November 1943

Lost echo on sweep. Tuning control on indicator
unit had no effect. Charged oscillator-convortor using
spare.

8 November 1943

Poor reception (weak echoes). Tuned oscillator-
convortor end charged two 6.3" (raid video and video
amplifier) tubo in receiver indicator. Only slight
improvement was noticed.

Period of Report, from 24 Sept. 1943 to 15 Nov. 1943.

Model SDA
Serial # 43.

Dato of installation - 30 June 1942

Total hours of operation to dato - 1400; during this period
- 200 hours.

— page 163 —
12. RADAR (Cont)
Changd 9001 tube and also 6V6 Swoop Amplifier. The
swoop was longthed only temporarily.

20 October 1943

Short swoop. Increasing transmitter filament
voltage increased length of swoop momentarily. Ro-
placed 801L oscillator tubes with Coll-AL's. Full
swoop was regained, and reception was excellent.

REMARKS
Excellent ranges on mountains wore obtained
during this patrol, but at no time while in the area
wore any contacts made on enemy planes, and soveral
were shipshot by the O2-clear of the Dock at ranges
from three to ten miles. When those planes wore
sighted the equipment was apparently in excellent
operating condition. All of those planes wore small
single-engino typos.

13. SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS
The sound gear functiond satisfactorily. Sound
conditions near SIBUTU P.S.S.C.E. were poor. Sound condi-
tions within 3 miles of the beach near C.P.P. V.R.E.L.A
wore poor. Sound conditions in the open sea in the area
wore good.

— page 165 —
15. The health of the crow soon below the average of the previous four patrols. Colds were prevalent soon after loving Fermanito. The food was excellent and well prepared.

The habitability of the boat was satisfactory.

16. The performance of duty of officers and crew was highly satisfactory.

17. HILLS STAINED
    - FUEL USED
    - Base to Area - 4,060 miles - 29,481 gallons
    - In area - - - 3,105 miles - 15,236 gallons
    - Area to Base - 3,230 miles - 30,198 gallons

18. DURATION
    - Days on route to Area - 19
    - Days in Area - - - 20
    - Days on route to Base - 13
    - Days submerged - - - 12

19. FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
    - Torpedoes 13
    - Fuel 18,000 gals.
    - Provisions 20 days
    - Personnel 10 days

LIMITING FACTOR - - Ended by Operation Order.

20. REMARKS - NONE.

— page 166 —
16 November 1943.
From: The Commander Task Group SEVENTY-ONE POINT THREE.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-ONE.
The Commander SEVENTY-THREE.

Subject: U.S. LIGHTFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. The fifth war patrol of LIGHTFISH, conducted in the South China Sea, covered a period of forty-two days, from 24 September to 14 November, inclusive. In addition to regular patrol, two special missions were completed.

2. Light surface contacts were made from which two torpedoes were captured, resulting in two sinkings.

3. The torpedo performance was most gratifying. 100% of all eight hits and five torpedoes were obtained.

4. The material condition of the LIGHTFISH is generally satisfactory although the performance of the 5D radar apparently left much to be desired.

5. Although the officers are crew of the LIGHTFISH, there is no evidence of any significant deterioration in the condition of the ship. The crew is in excellent condition and has completed four or more patrols in this ship. The need for a considerable turnover of personnel is indicated and will be accomplished prior to the LIGHTFISH's next patrol.

Signed: J. L. KIRK, U.S. Navy.

1 013

— page 167 —
10428
Lt. 1013

FE24-71/A16-3
Serial 0942
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
1 December, 1943.

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS KINGFISH Report of
5th War Patrol 58234/
A16-1 Serial 011 of
15 November, 1943.

From: Commander Task Force SEVENTY-ONE.
To: Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol - Combat on.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the Commander Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN.

2. Explodes used by the KINGFISH were activated magnetically. Ordalt 1600 Part 1 was not applied. The low end of the generator was, however, reversed in polarity to secure additional stability. Protective blas was set at 2.0 v. at 2000 rpm. 100% torpedo and exploder performance on this patrol is encouraging.

3. Two special missions were expeditiously and efficiently conducted by the KINGFISH. Torpedo attacks were aggressively and determinedly developed. Small boat contacts were judiciously handled. Area coverage was very good.

4. This patrol is considered "successful" for purpose of award of the Submarine Combat Insignia.

5. The Task Force Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew of the KINGFISH on an excellent patrol in which, in addition to the accomplishment

— page 168 —
013
FE24-71/A16-3
UNITED STATES NAVY
12-Bt
Serial: 0942
1 December, 1943.
C^O-N-F-I-D-N-T-I-A-L
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS KINGFISH Report of
5th War Patrol SS234/
Al6-1Serial 011 of
15 November, 1943.
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH & Report of Fifth War
Patrol. - Comment on.
---
of two special missions, the following damage was inflicted
on the enemy:
SUNK
#1 AO (HAYOTOMA MARU)
1 AK (UNIDENTIFIED)
+1 Sailing Sampan
Total
14,050 tons
5,000 tons
25 tons
19,075 tons
# Sinking confirmed
+ Sunk by gunfire.
R. W. CHRISTIE.

DISTRIBUTION:
Cominch (2) Via Com7thFlt
ViceOpNav (1) Via Com7thFlt
Vice OpNav
Op-23c (1)
ComlstFlt (1)
Com2ndFlt (1)
Com3rdFlt (1)
Com7thFlt (1)
ComSublstFlt (2)
ComSubs2ndFlt (4)
Comtackfor-72 (2)
Comsubron-16 (1)
Divcoms Ron-16(1)
Each S/M W.A.(1)- NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SEA - BURN

B. L. CARR,
Commander, U.S. Navy,
Flag Secretary.

— page 169 —
20 DEC 1943
Serial 0942
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to:
USS KING FISH Report of
5th War Patrol SS234/
Al6-1 Serial 011 of
15 November, 1943.

From: Commander Seventh Fleet.
To: Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. KING FISH - Report of Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. Fowarded
C. E. VAN HOOK
Deputy.

Copy to:
ViceOPrNav

FILMED.

— page 173 —
16 Dec.
1300
Departed Fremantle, WA., for Exmouth Gulf. Conducted section dives, made Battle Surface. Held emergency drills and Battle problems.

: 17 Dec.
0458
Made trim dive and went to 200' to determine temperature layers. Held submerged emergency drills.

: 0614
Surfaced.
0716
Sighted submarine and exchanged recognition signals with NARWEA.

: 0903
Made section dive. Held emergency drills and battle problem.

: 1020
Surfaced.
1157
Made section dive.
1540
Battle surface, and fired 4 rounds 4'50 cal. ammunition. Pired 20 mm and machine guns.

NOON POSITION: 28-55-00 S
112-45-00 E
Fuel used 2679 - Miles steamed since departure -256.

: 18 Dec.
0504
Trim dive and held emergency drills.

0600
Surfaced.

1000
Section dive.

1010
Surfaced.

1030
Section dive.

1058
Surfaced.

1140
Battle problem and fire-control drills.

NOON POSITION: 24-09-30 S
112-25-00 E
Fuel used 2812 - Miles 297.

: 19 Dec.
0930
Moored to tanker, Exmouth Gulf.

1230
Underway swung ship for deviation of magnetic compasses.

1620
Clear of Exmouth Gulf set course for LONBOK STRIAT.

1820
Trim dive.

1835
Surfaced.

— page 174 —
20 Dec.
0507
Trim dive time to 2001 for temperature layer. Hold emergency drills.
0635
Surfaced.
1250
Dived on plane contact by Inden (12 miles).
1325
Starfaced. Plane not sighted.
1525
Section dive. Battle patrol and emergency drills submerged. Nils Surface and fired three rounds of 4/50 cal.
1705
Radar contact on plane 5 miles. Submerged.
1729
Surfaced - plane not sighted.

NOON POSITION: 17-10-30.5; 114-29.3 E.
Fuel used 21C2 - Miles 265.

21 Dec.
0509
Trim dive. Went to 2001 ft. to obtain Bathythormo-graph card - obtained layer at 210 ft.
0719
Surfaced.
1020
SD Radar out of commission. This Radar has been "acting up" since our departure and is not reliable.
1030
Section Dive.
1101
Surfaced.
1510
Section dive.
1530
Surfaced.
1600
Hold Battle Problem and emergency drills.

NOON POSITION: 13-36.7 S; 114-56.5 E.
Fuel used 1637 - Miles 2146.

22 Dec.
0445
Submerged for all day patrol and to close LOMBOK STRAIT undetected prior to transit tonight.
0930
Sighted LOMBOK ISLAND bearing 0320, distance 45 miles.
1945
Surfaced.
2000
After lookout reported a ship dead astern. It was observed by the J.O.O.W. to be a small patrol type vessel, and kept in sight for about one hour. There seems to be a patrol south of LOMBOK about 20 - 25 miles.

— page 175 —
2230 Commenced transit of LOMBOK STRAIT. The sea was flat calm and although there was no moon, the visibility was excellent.

NOON POSITION: 09°30.5' S; 115°44.5' E.
Fuel used 2356 - Miles 252.

23 Dec.
0018 Radar contact bearing 020° Relative, distant 7500 yards. As we wore making 20 knots, I felt we could outrun him, so swung loft and headed for the BALI shore when his range became 5000 yards. Pulled ahead of him and lost contact at 9100 yards. The faint glimpses we obtained showed him to be a patrol vessel similar to a corvette or gunboat. He was patrolling in the middle of the STRAIT. Apparently we were not sighted.

0105 Completed transit of LOMBOK STRAIT.
0200 SD Radar in commission but not reliable.
0454 Submerged for day patrol on traffic lane SUNABAYA-MAKASSAR.
1905 Surfaced. Sighted numerous sail boats during the night.

NOON POSITION: 07-03 S; 116-16.5 E.
Fuel used 2229 - Miles 169.

24 Dec.
0525 Submerged for patrol on traffic lane MAKASSAR-KOTA BARU-BALIKAPAN. Making high periscope exposures every 20 minutes.

1700 0.0D, thought he saw the tops of masts bearing 3000 T. Came to 50' but masts were not again sighted. As we wore on the direct line from MAKASSAR City to KOTA BARU this might be traffic headed for either place. Decided to surface at dusk and search.

1855 Surfaced. Commoned high speed Radar search which covered speeds from 7 to 9 knots along thoir probable track in both directions. (We wore midway between the two departure ports).

2215 Discontinued search in order to assure boing past CAPE WILLIAM prior to daylight.

— page 176 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

NOON POSITION: 40-20.21 S, 1170-46.01 E.
Fuel used 25/48 - Miles 158.

25 Dec.
0510 Submerged for trim dive and Bathythornograph card.
Went to 200'.
Sighted numerous sail boats during the morning.
1325 Surfaced.
1655 Submerged in order that crew might enjoy a well
prepared and excellent Xmas dinner.
1825 Surfaced and set course to transit the narrow part
of MAKASSAR STRAIT.
2000 Crossed equator.
2100 Radar contact bearing 050 Relative, distant 5200
yards. This could have been a large sailing sampan
or a pair of vessels. It was not sighted and drew aft
rapidly.
2200 Commenced transit MAKASSAR STRAIT.

NOON POSITION: 19-29.51 S; 1180-15.01 E.
Fuel used 2078 - Miles 211.

26 Dec.
0011 Radar contact dead ahead, distant 1400 yards. Swung
hard left and passed a small sail boat close aboard
to starboard. The visibility during the night has
been exceedingly poor.
0110 Completed transit of MAKASSAR STRAIT.
0537 Submerged for trim and to determine density layers -
Decided to remain submerged until noon in order to
transit SIBUTU PASS about 2300.
1225 Surfaced.
2213 Sighted SIBUTU ISLAND bearing 32/4 T, distant 17
miles.
2215 Commenced transit SIBUTU PASSAGE. At this time
(Lat. 19-46' N; Long. 119-40' E) Radar interference
was noted on the SJ Radar. This interference was
of about 300 megacycles frequently and pulse rate of
between 600 and 1000. This interference lasted for
about 15 minutes.
2335 While aboard of BOIGAO ISLAND (Sibutu Passage),
sighted brilliant white lights which appeared to be
flood lights.

— page 177 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

Also at this time the SD Radar was turned on and a pip was noticed at 15 miles. Adding up the above incidents and inserting the chart leads one to suspect a possible seaplane landing base in the lagoon east of BONGO ISLAND. Radar contact at 0108, range 1400 yards - nothing sighted. Apparently a false pip, because it disappeared immediately.

NOON POSITION: L.T. 20-29.5'N; LONG. 119-48.5 E.
Fuel used 2502 - Miles 272.

27 Dec.
0005
Complied transit of SUBTUR PASSAGE.
Submerged for morning trim and deep dive for density layer.
0657
Surfaced.
1525
Sighted BANCORAN ISLAND and commenced transit of SIGHTED CONIRAN ISLAND and commenced transit of BALBAC STRAIT.
2345
Complied transit of BALBAC STRAIT and entered patrol area.

NOON POSITION: L.T. 70-09 N; LONG.1180-58.5 E.
Fuel used 3363 - Miles 291.

28 Dec.
0600
Submerged for morning trim and density layer.
0810
Surfaced. Conducting daylight surface patrol on traffic lane at South eastern approach to D.N.GERROUS GROUND. Continuous periscope watch. Sighted ship through periscope and determined to be a small destroyer (CHIDORI CLASS) or escort vessel. Bearing 160°T, distant about 17,000 yards. A.O.B. 90° stbd. This was completely overcast, and as we wore against the light western horizon dove to periscope depth and came to course 200° to close his tract. As nothing could be seen even with 17 feet of periscope, came up to 40 foot and searched with Radar. Could not gain contact. Surfaced. It was twilight and visibility was fair but he was not sighted.

1830

— page 178 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

The following possibilities for his being this far out were considered: (1) Our SD Radar had been DFDed (we have been in this vicinity all day), (2) There is a convoy coming to this point of entrance into the DANGEROUS GROUND; (3) It is making a routine patrol of the southern entrances to the DANGEROUS GROUND and PALAWAH PASSAGE.

Decided to conduct an all night search covering this entire locality in hopes that a convoy is due.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 07°C-21.5' N; LONG. 115°-10.7'E. Fuel used 3035 - Kilos 299.

29 Dec.
0620
Submerged for turn and to determine density layers - found layer at 15 feet east and a very good one at 260 feet.
0800
Surfaced. Will remain at this 'ocean point for a few days as it is the southern entrance to the best route through DANGEROUS GROUND and night prove productive.
1230
Submerged in order to routine all torpedoes.
1643
Surfaced.
1707
Sighted just appeared to be our friend of last night. Bearing 21°C, distant about 18,000 yards. A.O.B. zero.
1708
Submerged to periscope depth. Unable to regain contact even with 17 feet of periscope.
1851
Surfaced and stood up toward his bearing in hopes that he was awaiting a convoy.
1910
Sighted bright light on port bow. In the belief that this night be a patrol vessel acting as a station-ship decided to keep in his close vicinity end await results. Commenced steaming back and forth just keeping the light in sight.
2230
As nothing had developed we closed the light to within 7000 yards. Hader could not gain contact and at this time a heavy downpour blotted out the light.

— page 180 —
0732
Surfaced.
Conducted day surface patrol on westerly lane at
Western entrance to DANGEROUS GROUND.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 70-22.7°; LONG. 1120-22' E.
Fuel used 928 - Miles 212.

2 Jan.
0624
Submerged for morning trim.
Deep dive for Battythromycin readings.
Surfaced for day patrol.
Radar contact at 16,000 yards, bearing 22LT, 1ndi-
cating four cr five ship convoy, LAT. 70-10 N; LONG.
1120-15 E. Corroded trackers. Convoy on course
015T, speed about 10, entering dangerous GROUND.
Geographical position is such that a change to the
right to avoid LOI:DON REAPS is necessary. Obtained
position 13,000 yards ahead and waited for this
course change.

2300
Convoy came to 0300T. This was not enough of a
change to clear QUARTERON REAPS so we anticipated
further change so stayed ahead and continued to
track. Definitely determined convoy to consist of
five ships. One large AO, three AKIs and one un-
identified smaller ship which was possibly a destroyer
escort (later this proved correct).

2330
Convoy c/c to 0125T. This course cleared all dangers.
LAT.
NOON POSITION: 70-19.5N; LONG. 112-00 E.
Fuel used 1051 - Miles 213.

3 Jan.
0030
Moons. Tracking determined course of 0420T, speed
11 knots. Commenced attack. Came in at 15 knots
from starboard bow keeping pointed directly at load-
ing ship (AO). All five ships in sight.

0050
With range 2600 yards, 60' starboard track, commenced
firing. Fired three torpedoes at 20. Tubos 3,4,5,
in order to prevent possible proximity from tubos
1 & 2. Shifted setup and fired three at the second
ship which was the longest AK.

-10-

— page 181 —
0100
U.S. S. KINGFISH
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

The first torpedo ran straight and normal and hit the bow of the Tankor.

Second torpedo prematurely. Third torpedo ran erratic, zig-zagging from left to right.

The premature gave warning to the whole convoy and the second ship, turned away causing the second salvo to miss ahead. The escort turned toward us and commenced closing. Ordered right full rudder, all ahead flank. When we had turned the TDC operator was given a new set-up on the large AK and commenced firing as soon as the gyros came on. Fired remaining four torpedoes.

The escort (a destroyer) was now at 1900 yards dead astern. At flank speed the range opened to 2900 yards and then began to close.

Saw two hits on AK. The rest of the scattering convoy began wildly tossing depth charges. Escort opened fire. First shot directly overhead, splash 500 yards dead ahead (Down 500,NC). Cleared the bridge and intended to swing hard loft to lose the DD as his gun flash was so bright he was undoubtedly blinded. In the ensuing confusion of lookouts and control party going below the JOWL commenced to dive leaving the Captain and the Exoc. on the bridge. Ordered vents closed and "Blow all Main Ballast". The controllerman hearing the vents operating shut down the engines. So as the range was closing rapidly, we decided to dive. At 60 feet the rudder was put hard left. A few moments later the destroyer passed directly astern, and dropped five depth charges. Ordered (or rather bogged) for 350 foot. A density layer at 175 ft. was so great that the amount of water required to get through made us very heavy. Stopped at 375 foot and maintained depth control with great difficulty. It was necessary to put a bubble in safety to keep from going deeper. Thank goodness for the inboard vents on safety, oven though they are too small for quick venting.

— page 182 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

We were back up to 120 feet before we could get it fully vented. Want back down under the donstity layer and commenced evasive tactics which consisted of silent running on zig-zag courses keeping the escort on the quarter when possible. The destroyer's tactics consisted of low speed search on listening gear with occasional stops. Ho pinging was heard.

At this time sound reported loud crackling and breaking up noises in the direction of the AK. He also spotted each ship in the convoy. There were only three sets of scows clearing the area to the southeast. Our friend the DD was still hanging around us. A careful sound search was made for the fourth ship, but all that could be heard was three ships to the Southeast, one escort to the northwest, and crackling noises to the westward where the attack was made. At this time our head was 090° T. As this is the 6th patrol for this sound operator and he has heard those characteristic sounds before, I believe this AK sank.

All quiet. Commenced reload.

0230 All quiet. Commenced reload.

0310 Pariscope depth. Too dark to see.

0315 Made good sweep with both SJ and SD ratars. No contacts.

0326 Surfaced and proceeded to the Southeast and east in search of convoy. Searched until contact report 6ff in hopes that CORBUS or HAMMOND might intercept them North of D.N.GERIOUS GROUND.

0630 Headed for vicinity of MIRI in case we had boon DF!d or reported.

During the above attack so much was going on in such a short time over a large area that it is difficult to put it all together. Three definite hits were observed. More hits were reported by lookouts, but due to the flashes from torpedoes exploding at the end of their run, depth charges, and gun fire only the three hits that were actually soon by the officers on the bridge are claimed. There may have been more.

— page 183 —
0710
It is of special interest to note the position of the escort. This light departure from the usual (shaped or astern) greatly embarrassed us as an attack from the other side might have produced more results. Sighted stack and bridge of a ship bearing 1550 T, distant 6 miles. L.T. 7-26 N; LOG. 112-39 E. Could not determine angle on bow due to morning haze. Dove and commenced approach. Identified target as large tanker on course 2850 T, speed 12 knots. Broke off approach as we could not control the bearing and the range never got below 10,000 yards. Surfaced and commenced "end around" run. Target evidently on course from JESSELTON to BINGKOK. Geographically our position was poor as he would pass just south of RIMPLE N. B.NK and we would have to pass to the northward, thus losing sight contact. While we wore deciding whether to take position astern or chance passing north of the bank the target changed course to the left. Things then became extremely interesting. He showed us every angle on the bow possible. At times the track showed him even backing. His geographical position was exactly the

— page 184 —
13:45
U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

same as ours would have been had we continued on our course and spool after having been DEPT on this morning's transmission. For the next three hours we kept the target in sight and attempted to attain a position with a small angle on the bow, During this period the geographical position indicated distance made good to the southward, where as, his heading was north and east, for the most part.

With the range 16,000 - 17000 yards, angle on bow 30° port, submerged and commencd approach.

This was the most unique and non-conforming approach over made by me (my first wartime periscope approach, incidentally). The target was on base course 105° T. Approximately over hour he would zig about three times in rapid succession with all zigs under 15°. The range was radically inconsistent for after 10 minutes of high speed on our part, the next look would give the same AOB but on increase in range. After 2½ hours of high speed and the battery beginning to show signs of exasperation, we finally closed to 9,000 yards - angle on the bow still 300° port. We finally decided he must be a torpedo and would back occasionally causing the small "zigs". On the next look the target was 6,000 yards and clearly visible. Instead of the slick NIPPON NURU type first decided upon he was a wother bettered and worn SYOYO NURU type (page 273, ONI 208-J).

The word "Q" ship was written all over him due to his geographical position, his actions and his appearance. The whole set-up "smelled" for no matter what we did, he would give us a 30-400 angle on the bow (port) and sound could hear pinging noises but no screws. At range 3,000 yards the AOB suddenly became zero so we crossed over to starboard. Each time we thought we were over a quick look showed no change. After much sweating and precipitation, we finally got a 100 starboard angle with a range of 2700 yards. The TDC checked target spool zero.

— page 185 —
1815
Fired 4 torpedoes from stern tubes, 90° stbd. track, 1700 yards range. Went to flank speed and 80 fast with full left rudder ("C" ship still uppermost in my mind). Three hits at 1 minute and 800 seconds, 14 seconds and 2l seconds. At this moment, sound reported a torpedo approaching from dead astern. Ordered 250 foot which we reached in 52 seconds. Sound still insisted the torpedo was coming. Loud breaking up noises and explosions were heard throughout the boat. Someone mentioned to the sound man that we were making flank speed, so the oncoming torpedo was accounted for.

: 1830
Came to periscope depth. Flames covered the entire field of the periscope. Took pictures. The target was actually a tanker loaded with gasoline. He had exploded, because there was nothing but flames. Surfaced and cleared area at high speed. The flames were still visible 1l hours later (30 miles away). The smoke rose to about 5000 feet and covered the entire portion of the sky.

: 1845
In regard to the "approaching" torpedo reported after we had fired - we fully believed this ship to be a decoy and we expected he, or something in the vicinity, would counter attack. Actually the tanker must have broken down and was attempting repairs during the entire 14 hours of the approach.

Thus endeth my first lesson.

NOON POSITION: L.A.T. 7-29' N; LONG. 112-23 E.
Fuel used 2519 - Miles 293.

: 1715
Submerged. Deep dive for density layers. Submerged high periscope patrol on junction of traffic lanes from S.E.N.G. PORE-MIRI-M.N.I.L.-EMPIRE.
Surfaced. Proceeding to southern entrance to D.NIGEROUS GROUND as this seems to be the most fortify field.

NOON POSITION: L.A.T. 6-30' N; LONG. 113-20 E.
Fuel used 1065 - Miles 168.

— page 186 —
1. U.S.S. KINGFISHER - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

Jan. 5
0615
Submerged for trim dive and deep for density layers.
0705
Surfaced. Conducted patrol across traffic lane at middle entrance to DANGEROUS GROUND.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 7°19.51' N; LONG. 115°-24' E.
Fuel used 1,489 - Miles 1,147.

Jan. 6.
0625
Submerged for daily trim dive and density layers.
0720
Surfaced for day patrol. Patrolling SINGAPORE-MANILA lane at southwestern edge of DANGEROUS GROUND.

1410
Increased speed to full in order to reach new patrol station (PALAWAN PASSAGE) prior to daylight of 7th.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 7-23 N; LONG. 112-00 E.
Fuel used 988 - Miles 182.

Jan. 7.
0530
RADAR contact 103°T, distant 10,650 yards. Went to flank speed to gain position ahead. LAT. 80-29' N; LONG. 116°-22' E. Commenced tracking.
0615
Sighted targets from periscope and identified them as one large AO, one large AK with one escort.
0811
With angle on bow of 20° port, base course 035°T, range 18,000 yards, submerged and commenced approach. Targets remained on base course 035°T, speed 8.5 knots for approximately 25 minutes and then zig-zagged radically with no apparent courses and large changes of speed for about 6 minutes. After this maneuver a new leg was reached and targets settled for another 25 minutes and repeated the above maneuver.

No escort was visible. He evidently left them at daylight.

At range 3,000 yards, 900' stbd. track, bow tubes, targets commenced some more radical zig zag and covered us like a rug. All efforts to gain attack position were futile as the nearest target passed 900 yards astern presenting a 130° port track for stern tubes - we have no torpedoes aft.

-16-

— page 187 —
1026
Brooke off attack as targets were definitely by.
Tracked convoy out to range 18,000 yards.
1200
Surfaced and commenced high speed "and around"
chase through DAUGHROUS GROUND. NOTE: The British
Scarlet charts (CB 01911, (3) of this area are excell-
ent and were absolutely essential for this success-
chase as we passed between HALFMOON SHOALS and
ROYAL CAPTAIN SHOALS, skirted southeast of N.E.
INVESTIGATOR and to the Westward north of BOHEMIA
SHOAL, piloting all the way with no strain.
1715
Changed course to 121° T. and commenced patrol across
target track.
1800
Sighted targets bearing 250°T. on course 070°T.
Commenced tracking.
1811
Submerged. One half hour before dark. Having
gotten this far I did not want to chance being
sighted by aircraft on evening patrol out of PUERTO
PRINCESCA, PALAWAN.
2051
Surfaced. Patrolling across targets' track.
Regained contact by Rdr on 110°T., range 15,000
yards. LAT. 9°-30' N; LONG. 117°-10.5' E.
Commenced tracking and definitely established target
speed as 8.2 knots. Zig zag plan consisting of 10
and 6 minute legs around base course 0450T.
2130
The zigs were 400 - 50' to the right and left.
Wont to Battle stiction and commenced night surface
approach. The moon was directly overhead and practi-
cally full. Visibility 10,000 yards. Sea was rough
with heavy swells and combers. Decided to stay on
the surface and approach with sea astern. If it
looked as if he might sight us, I intended to dive
and continue attack by periscope. Started in with
AOB 300 port, range 10,000 yards, targets in sight.
Kptb bow pointed directly at leading ship. At
range 8,000 yards targets zigged toward showing a
zero AOB which put us in an excellent spot as we
know he would zig again within 10 minutes. Slowed
to 1/3 speed, flooded down and lat him come to us.
When range reached 4,000 yards the targets zigged
800 to their right presenting us with an approach
officer's dream.
2153
Fired four torpedoes at second ship. Range 2600,
track 800 port. Fired spread with two to hit.

— page 188 —
21-53-30
Swung left and fired remaining two at tanker with 1100 port track, range 2200 yards. Came hard right.
: 21-53-54
First torpedo hit on first target just forward of bridge. Target exploded and was enveloped in flames rising to 300 feet. The AK was a converted job carrying gasoline.
: 21-55
Second torpedo hit - it was unnecessary.

: 21-55-30
The area was so brilliantly lighted that we decided to dive to prevent sighting in case of a miss on the second ship.
: 21-55
Dove.
: 21-55-30
Heard and felt timed explosion of first shot (5th torpedo) on tanker. This hit started the KNIGHFISH on her second 100,000 tons.
: 21-59
Heard five depth charges which were not close but were very deep. Apparently jettisoned by the tanker. Loud cracking up noises on sound. Sorrow noises of tanker for about 5 minutes.
: 22-10
Surfaced and saw two beautiful fires about 2000 yards apart. The first ship had sunk and the gasoline was still coming to the surface and burning over an area of about 1500 square yards. The second ship (the tanker) was still afloat and the after superstructure was blazing fiercely. Just forward of the after deck and stack the oil fire had stabbed. This fire was a dark reddish-yellow with heavy black smoke that completely obscured the southern half of the sky. About 500 yards astern a life boat was visible pulling a way. Took pictures.
: 22-19
Flank speed to clear vicinity.
: 23-00
Saw and heard large explosion on AO.
: 23-10
Another explosion. Estimated range about 20,000 yards and fires still visible.

This was a gratifying sight after 32 long hours of searching, overhauling and tracking.

The tanker was fairly definitely identified as the SAN CLEMENTE NARU type (page 272, ONI 30-1).

— page 189 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

The XAO was evidently a convoy-tod job. Ho looked like the MOGAMIGAWA MARU (page 89 ONI 208-J) with the kingposts removed.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 80-43.5' N; LONG. 116-33' E.
Fuel used 6438 - Miles 333.

Jan. 8
0145
Transmitted KINGFISH Serial three. It required 25 minutes to clear this message. The rococovert kept asking for repeats. This was a golden opportunity for the Nip DFFors as we were only 40 miles from a Nip airport.

0620
Submerged for morning trim and deep for density layer.

0815
Surface.

1300
Received CTF 71 Serial ninety-five directing us to leave area and carry out remainder of operation order. Headed for BALABAC STRAIT.

1644
Sighted what appeared to be a small patrol vessel.
LAT. 70-49' N; LONG. 116-12' E.

1626
Submerged.

1820
Surfaced. Vessel not again sighted.

2050
Radar contact on land (BALABAC ISLAND), range 33,000 yards. The SJ radar has performed excellently throughout the patrol.

2200
Commenced transit BALABAC STRAIT.

2400
Completed transit of BALABAC STRAIT. LUMBUGAN CHANNEL was used without difficulty.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 80-04.5' N; LONG. 115-46' E.
Fuel used 3447 - Miles 280.

Jan. 9
Proceeding east through SULU SEA onroute MINDANAO SEA and SURIGAO STRAIT.

0613
Submerged for trim and density layers.

0654
Surface.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 80-18.7' N; LONG. 118-52' E.
Fuel used 1078 - Miles 222.

Jan. 10
0520
Sighted NEGRO'S ISLAND, bearing 0250T, distance 35 miles.

-19-

— page 190 —
0707 Entered MINDANAO SEA.
0757 While making a reconnaissance of the Southern entrance to TAHON STRAIT sighted small coastal steamer (about 1000 tons).
0815 Submerged as I did not want to disclose my presence prior to completing inspection of entrances to TAHON and BOHOL STRAITS.
12140 Surfaced in heavy rain. The sky had become completely overcast and rain squalls were frequent. Visibility from 1000 yards to unlimited.
1351 Sighted two patrol boats or small trawlers entering southern approach to BOHOL STRAIT.
1353 Submerged.
1555 Surfaced. Patrol boats had passed out of sight around SIGUTJOR ISLAND. These three contacts wore the only things sighted at the entrances to TAHON and BOHOL STRAITS. Due to the extremely bad weather I did not deem it feasible to remain longer in this vicinity as I was aamplishing nothing. Proceeded toward SURIGAO STRAIT.
2130 Radar contact 0610 Relativo, range 6400. Changed course to avoid. Sailboat.
2147 Radar contact 0470 Relativo, range 7000 yards. Target not sighted.
2206 Commenced transit of SURIGAO STRAIT.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 9°-00' N; LONG. 123-23 E.
Fuel used 3056 - Miles 286.

Jan. 11
0130 Completed transit of SURIGAO STRAIT. Passed DESOLATION POINT, DINAGAT ISLAND aboard to starboard, distant 14 miles. Commenced return to MIDWAY.
11400 H Changed time to Zone -9.
1500 I Using Zone -9 time:

NOON POSITION: LAT. 10°-57' N; LONG. 127°-07' E.
Fuel used 4792 - Miles 303.

Jan. 12
Enroute SURIGAO ST. to MIDWAY.

— page 191 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH- Report of War Patrol Number Six.

---

Since leaving SURIGAO have been in heavy seas and continuous rain. Speed reduced to 8 knots.

NOON POSITION: L.A.T. 11°-58' N; LONG. 129°-53' E.
Fuel used 1331 - Miles 172.

Jan. 13
0900
Made trim dive. Rounded three remaining torpedoes. Have one torpedo which is unable to be fired. The propellors will not rotate due to faulty main engine or spoof change mechanism. Unable to repair. Completed routine of three useable torpedoes. Surfaced.

NOON POSITION: L.A.T. 13°-11.7' N; LONG. 132°-29' E.
Fuel used 1288 - Miles 186.

Jan. 14
1500 I Changed to Zone -10 time.
1500 J Kooping Zone -10 time.

NOON POSITION: L.A.T. 14°-14' N; LONG. 135°-33 E.
Fuel used 1830 - Miles 203.

Jan. 15
0748
Made trim dive. Surfaced.

NOON POSITION: L.A.T. 16°-26' N; LONG. 139°-38.5' E.
Fuel used 3287 - Miles 265.

Jan. 16
0640
Trim dive. Surfaced.

0725
Sighted AGRIHAN ISLAND, MARIANAS, bearing 102° T., distant 38 miles.

1730
Passed AGRIHAN ISLAND aboard to starboard, 24 miles.

NOON POSITION: L.A.T. 18°-30.5' N; LONG. 144°-17.8' E.
Fuel used 2950 - Miles 302.

Jan. 17
0645
Trim dive. Surfaced.

0700

— page 192 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:  U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 20°-05' N; LONG. 149°-22' E.
Fuel used 3109 - Miles 298.

Jan. 18
0655 Trim dive.
0745 Surfaced.
0900 J Charged time to -11 Zone time.
1000 K Keeping Zone -11 time.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 21°-22.5' N; LONG. 154°-22' E.
Fuel used 2810 - Miles 307.

Jan. 19
0700 Trim dive.
0743 Surfaced.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 220°-23.5' N; LONG. 158°-56.5' E.
Fuel used 3270 - Miles 330.

Jan. 20
0639 Trim dive.
0656 Surfaced.
1525 Sighted periscope bearing 090° Relative, distant about 1200 yards. Came left and commenced high speed evasive tactics. Periscope seen only momentarily by lookout, but he was quite certain that it was a periscope. LAT. 21°-05' N; LONG. 166°-30' E.

1730 K Changed time to -12 Zone time.
1830 L Keeping -12 (L) time.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 23°-46' N; LONG. 165°-57' E.
Fuel used 3538 - Miles 343.

Jan. 21
0720 Trim dive.
0825 Surfaced.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 25°-37.5' N; LONG. 171°-42.2 E.
Fuel used 1480 - Miles 331.

Jan. 22
1955 Crossed 180° Meridian, kept same date.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 27-10 N; LONG. 177-52.5 E.
Fuel used 4608 - Miles 350.

-22-

— page 193 —
U.S.S. KNIGFISH
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. KNIGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

Jan. 22
0810 Sighted MIDWAY ISLAND bearing 040° T., distant 12 miles.
0956 Moored MIDWAY ISLAND.
1655 Underway enroute 32° N. LANG. 175° W.

NOON POSITION: MIDWAY ISLAND.
Fuel used 2995 - Miles 275.

Jan. 23
0840 Sighted floating mine. Maneuvered to get a shot at it but the seas were too heavy. It was not again picked up. This was a rusty barnacle covered floating type mine and seemed to have been in the water for months.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 21°-35.7' N; LONG. 175°-03' W.
Fuel used 3465 - Miles 261.

Jan. 24
0900 Made trim dive.
1005 Surfaced.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 22°-31' N; LONG. 169°-26.5' W.
Fuel used 5408 - Miles 338.

Jan. 25
Enroute PEARL HARBOR.

NOON POSITION: LAT. 21°-21' N; LONG. 162°-53' W.
Fuel used 5968 - Miles 379.

Jan. 26
0255 Radar contact 139° T., distant 15,000 yards.
Commenced tracking.
0515 Exchanged calls with escort.
0600 Recognized Radar contact as U.S.S. SIRIUS with escort apparently enroute PEARL HARBOR.
0900 Moored Submarine Base, PEARL HARBOR, T.H.

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— page 194 —
U.S.S. KINGFISH
COMPENDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. KINGFISH - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

(C) WEATHER:
The weather encountered in the area followed closely that described in the Coast Pilot. In general it was overcast and rainy with the seas comparatively calm.

(D) TIDAL HURRICANE:
All currents and tides were found to be in agreement with existing U.S. publications and resumes of previous patrols through these areas.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS:
No established navigational aids were observed to be operating. The reefs in the southern DANGEROUS GROUND are accurately shown on Confidential Charts CB 0914 (3), British.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS:
See Page 25.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS:
No enemy aircraft were sighted.

(H) ATTACK DATA:
See Pages 26 to 36, inclusive.

(I) MINES:
No minelaying or mine sweeping activities were observed.

— page 196 —
6
Description: 8,500 ton Patrol, 1000 ft. Crew Class (up 269, ONI 208-J)

Ship(s) Sunk: No.

Ship(s) Damaged or probably sunk: Same damaged by our hit forward.

Damage determined by: Observation.

Target Draft 35ft. Course 015. Speed 15 knots. Range 2,600 yds. (at Firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 15 kts Course: 280° Depth Surface angle 0° (at Firing)

FIRE CONTROL & IGNITION DATA

Type Attack: Night surface, radar approach. Attacked from the starboard side, intending to fire three from the bow next at the first ship in column, swing and fire three at the second, then fire the stern next at the last in line, First torpedo hit forward, second pronounced and the third ran erratic. Had fired tubes three, four, and five in effort to avoid the possibility of precautions from the top tubes. Swing to fire at second ship. (See attack No. 1 (b).

— page 197 —
6,581 ton Freighter (pp. 206, ONI 208-J).

Ship(s) Sunk: Same.

Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk: NONE.

Damage Determined by: Observation of hits and sound after dive.

Target Draft 27 ft. Course Swing Speed 12 Range 2,200 yds. (At Firing)

OWN SHIP DATA:

Speed: 19 kts. Course: 280°1350T. Depth Surface Angle 00 (At Firing)

FIRE CONTROL & TORPEDO DATA:

Type Attack: Night surface, radar attack. (see attack No. 1(a)).

Swing and fired tubes, one, two and six at the second in line. These missed due to the warning given the target by the pro-mature and erratic run of the first salvo. Swing right and got now set up on T.D.C. for stern tube shot at same target. Fired stern tubes. Observed two hits on target. Due to proximity of DD escort and accuracy of his gunfire, dove.

— page 198 —
1815 (H) DATE: 5 Jan. 1944 (LAT. 06-32 N. JONC. 112-32 E.)

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE IMPACTED

Description: 7,500 ton Tanker. SYOYO M RU Type (p.273,ONI 208-J).

Ship(s) Sunk: Sane

Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk: NONE.

Damage Determined by: Observation of three hits, and sighting the burning wrockage.

Target Draft 10ft. Course 105°T Speed Zero Range1,700 yds. (At Firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 3 Course 195°T Depth 61 ft. Angle 0° (At Firing)

FIRE CONTROL & TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Daylight submerged attack. Tracked the target for several hours, after sighting on surface. Terror was underway when first sighted, but later at time of firing was dead in the water. Fired four stern tubes. Heard three hits (Other spread to miss). Observed the target sinking in flames. Fire observed for several hours as gasoline burned on the water.

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