U.S.S. DACE (SS-247) — war patrol report SS-247_DACE_Part1.pdf

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1943, USS DACE (SS 247)
The Electric Boat Company of Grotto, Connecticut, laid the keel of hull number SS 247 in their new Victory Yard on July 22, 1942.

April 25, 1943, Mrs. O. Pomeroy Robinson christened this hull the DACE and sent her sliding into the waters of the Thames River -- the first submarine to be launched at the Victory Yard.

Three officers and about ten members of the crew of the DACE were present for the launching. Her prospective commanding officer was Lieutenant Commander J.F. Enright, Naval Academy class of 1933. Her Executive Officer was Lieutenant Commander W.G. Holman, Class of 1936. Other officers assigned to the ship were: Lieutenant C.R. Clark, Jr., USN, Engineering Officer; Lieutenant H.D. Thorton, USNR, gunnery officer; Lieutenant (junior grade) F.P. Thomas, USN, Commissary Officer; Ensign E.T. Jones, USN, Assistant Engineering Officer; and Ensign C.C. Erhard, USNR, Communications Officer.

On July 23, 1943, Captain W.W. Foster, of the Electric Boat Company, got the DACE underway and brought her alongside the pier at the U.S. Submarine Base, New London. The officers and crew, dressed in blues waited silently on the dock for their ship. At 1700, that afternoon, they marched aboard. After a brief ceremony the ship was formally handed over to the crew.

The next two weeks were spent in the New London area.

Over fifty per cent of the crew were green hands, fresh from Submarine School. Only seventeen men had ever been on a war patrol before. Full advantage had to be taken of this period to organize this outfit into coordinated submarine crew.

On August 9, 1943, the USS DACE went to sea for the first time on a short trip to Newport, Rhode Island. She spent a few days there testing torpedoes then returned to New London. Prior to her arrival she made her first deep dive, without incident.

On September 6, 1943, the DACE got underway for Pearl Harbor. She stopped for a few days at the Submarine Base, Colon, Canal Zone, then completed her trip.

On October 3, the USS DACE arrived at Pearl Harbor. For two and a half weeks she went through the tests, drills, and exercises prescribed by Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet, to prepare her for war. Finally, on October 20, heavily laden with torpedoes, fuel, ammunition and food, the DACE sat sail on War Patrol Number One.

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2- USS DACE
: WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

The USS DACE stopped at Midway from October 24-27 in order to repair one engine. On October 27, she crossed the 180th meridian for the first time. On the 31st, the barometer started dropping. On November 2, it dropped 18 points in seven hours and the DACE encounter red her first heavy weather.

On the 4th, she entered her patrol area which was off the coast of the southern-most Japanese island. For several days she patrolled the area submerged in the daytime and surfaced at night.

First contact was made the night of November 7, while on the surface. There seemed to be two large ships and two small ones. The target fired at was similar to the KAKKO MARU of 6,783 tons. One hit was felt and lots of black smoke poured out of the targets stack.

The DACE returned for a second attack but this time a large oiler with two escorts loomed up ahead. One of the escorts challenged her. She ignored the challenge and fired more torpedoes -- no results. The Japs flashed search-lights and dropped depth charges but the DACE had cleared the area on the surface.

The patrol continued off the coast of MIKI SAKI. Numerous planes and a few small picket boats were sighted but nothing worth-while.

On November 11, the USS DACE surfaced early in the evening in the bright moonlight. At 2130, a patrol boat was sighted. The DACE turned away and tried to open the range. The patrol boat now was revealed as a destroyer which commenced chasing. When the destroyer had closed the DACE to 6,000 yards, the submarine fired a spread of torpedoes. The Japs did not make the expected final dive so the DACE submerged -- and fast. The Jap rushed over the top and dropped four depth charges -- not close, then continued away at high speed.

Days of routine patrolling went by. Planes were sighted and evaded by diving. Small picket boats were always present, but no worth while targets were sighted.

On November 14, she shifted to the southern part of the area and about midnight sighted HACHIJO JIMA about 40 miles away.

At the break of dawn on the 15th, an aircraft carrier of the SHOKAIU-class, and at least three destroyers passed just outside of torpedo range. It was impossible to get closer to them while the boat was submerged.

On the 19th, at about 1800, while the ship was submerged a tanker and an escort were sighted. Everything looked good for a submerged attack but the Japs became suspicious and the tanker turned away. The escort located the DACE and attacked. The first depth charge was close, light bulbs broke, cork flew off the bulkheads, and few cables were pushed further into the ship.

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3- USS DACE

Within an hour three more patrol boats joined the fun and tried to relocate the DACE. Fourteen more depth charges were dropped -- none very close. About 2100, the patrol boats gave up and left the vicinity. The DACE surfaced at 2315, found herself alone so she cleared the area.

The DACE remained in her area but out of sight of land on a shipping lane for the next few days. One small ship, possibly a "Q" ship and one CHIDORI were sighted at a distance but no worth -while contacts appeared.

Finally on December 4, the DACE was ordered back to Midway for rest and refit.

The combat insignia was not authorized for this patrol at this time. The Patrol lasted for 53 days.

The refit for the second patrol was started on December 11th while the crew rested on Midway.

On December 28, Lieutenant Commander J.F. Enright, USN, was relieved as Commanding Officer by Lieutenant Commander B.D. Claggett, U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1935. From December 29 through January 4, 1944, the new Commanding Officer trained his crew in and around Midway. During this time Vice Admiral C.A. Lockwood, Jr., USN., spent a day on the DACE observing the training exercises. January 7, the ship was completely loaded and sent out on her second war patrol.

From January 7 to 18, daily drills and dives were held for training purposes. A few plane contacts were made but the submarine was evidently undetected. On the 15th, the DACE was transferred to the operational command of Task Force 72. On the 18th the DACE entered her assigned area located between the Bismarck Archipelago and the Caroline Islands.

From the 18th to the 26th, the ship patrolled her area on the surface. Once a lot of wreckage and a lifeboat were sighted, and once six Jap planes were seen. On the 23rd, Pulosuk Island was sighted about 50 miles away. On the 24th, the area off Manila Reef was patrolled on the Palau-Truk shipping route.

Contact was established the night of the 26th on a large tanker with two escorts. For three hours the group was tracked in order to determine their course and speed. The DACE turned in to attack. Unfortunately, one of the escorts complicated the attack by interposing itself between the sub and the main target. The sub passes successfully behind the escort and fired torpedoes at the tanker. A couple of minutes later two violent explosions shook the sub but no flashes were seen because of rain squall. The target fired two red rockets. Three more explosions were then heard. The DACE turned away with one escort, which appeared to be a destroyer, chasing her. For a long time the destroyer stayed about a mile and a half dead astern then it seemed to give up the chase and left.

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4- USS DACE

The DACE then went back after the target which was still on the surface and making about 16 knots. The sub was unable to catch up with her before daylight, so the chase was abandoned and normal patrol routine resumed.

On the 28th, the sub started working her way slowly to Tulagi for fuel. A couple of friendly subs were encountered and several aircraft were detected. On February 2, the DACE arrived in Tulagi and commenced fueling and minor voyage repairs. On the third, she got underway again for patrol south of the Caroline Islands near Truk. Three or four of the usual plane contacts were made but none noticed the DAVE bec use she dived out of sight.

From February 6, to 11, the submarine patrolled her area on the surface and dived two or three times a day to avoid the numerous aircraft in that particular area.

On the 11th, a convoy of five ship were contacted but because it was impossible to close them the DACE lost contact and tried to intercept them further along their possible track. Two hours later they were contacted again but closer investigation showed that they were small and not worthy of torpedo fire. Tracking was discontinued.

From the 12th to 17th, she conducted her patrol off of Helene Shoals.

On the 17th, the DACE moved to a patrol area west of Truk near Pulusuk Island. Several plane contacts were made.

On February 22nd, she exchanged signals with the USS PERMIT. At midnight, that same day, the DACE received orders to return to Milne Bay, New Guinea.

Enroute to Milne Bay, she met the USS DARTER and the two subs proceeded in company the rest of the way.

This patrol also was not successful and the combat insignia was not authorized. The patrol lasted 49 days.

WAR PATROL NUMBER THREE

After a two week rest period spent at Camp Beeman, Milne Bay the officers and crew returned to the DACE on March 11th much refreshed. The DACE was ready for sea on March 16. She got underway on her third war patrol in company with the USS FLOUNDER and escorted by the USS BACHE. On March 18, she arrived at Langemak Bay to pick up passengers for special missions. She then departed for her area late the same afternoon.

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5- USS DACE

After reconnoitering the coast near Hollandia, Netherlands New Guinea, at close range for two days and a night, the DACE closed in on the surface, after dark, March 23rd. During this perbd the DACE had taken many photographs and made sketches of the coast and surrounding terrain. At 2315, she put off five commando in a rubber boat -- distance to the beach one mile. At 0213 March 24th, she put off two more boats with six commando.

For the next two days the DACE took pictures of the coast, sighting nothing but a hospital ship and an occasional patrol boat.

Upon completing these missions the ship returned to Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands for fuel arriving midday the 27th. The next day she headed out once more bound for the patrol area. On March 31, she received a two-bomb straddle from a Jap bomber which dived out of the clouds. On April 4th, the DACE sighted an aircraft carrier leaving Davao Gulf but could not close to attack. At 0012 April 6th, the DACE contacted a task force of three Jap cruisers and four destroyers. Two torpedoes were fired at each cruiser at 0042. There were no hits. At 0130 the next morning, the DACE contacted an escorted freighter, but after a prolonged chase, the sub was detected and received three depth charges. She was unable to attack.

The DACE received orders April 10th to meet the daddy damaged USS SCAMP, and escort her home. That evening contact was established and the DACE and the SCAMP commenced their long trek back to the base, arriving at Seeadler Harbor April 16th. On April 19th, the DACE got underway for patrol once again.

During this time the DACE had a very interesting experience. The ship made a routine dive to evade a Jap plane. Due to the excitement of the moment and temporary loss of power the boat nosed gently over to an angle of 52 degrees. Everyone was forced down to the forward bulkhead. The Chief Radioman, J.H. Jemison, USN, slid out of the radio shack, inadvertently grabbed the knocker valve on the high pressure air manifold and blew the main ballast tanks. The Captain ordered all back full. Control was regained just before the boat broached so that she stayed out of sight under the surface.

That same day another emergency dive ended up with a 37 degree down angle. It seemed to be the day for steep dives. Everything stayed under control from then on, and the ship regained her normal stability. There was no further excitement until the 26th when a periscope was sighted. This was avoided.

The evening of the 27th, several destroyers were contacted but they got away. On May 2nd, the DACE chased for several hours a large tanker escorted by two destroyers. Hampered by reduced speed due to a generator casualty, and impending dawn, the DACE fired five torpedoes at the tanker from long range. Unfortunately there were no hits, and close gun fire from the escorts drove the DACE off. One fairly close depth charge was dropped."

That afternoon, after a long and nerve-racking patrol, the DACE headed for home, and arrived at Brisbane, Australia, May 13, 1944.

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6- USS DACE
: This patrol was considered successful for purposes of awarding the Submarine Combat Insignia. The patrol lasted 59 days.

WAR PATROL NUMBER FOUR

After a 30-day refit, including two weeks leave in Brisbane, Sydney, and environs, the DACE was ready for sea. She headed north June 13th with a new Executive Office, Lieutenant Commander R.C. Benitez, USN. Various training exercises were conducted under Commander C.C. Burlingame, USN. She arrived at Seeadler Harbor in the Admiralties June 20th. The next day, the DACE departed for her area and on the way opened the "ACEY DACE" Movie Theater with a showing of "No Time For Love." June 26th, she entered the area and commenced hunting Japs in earnest.

The DACE patrolled submerged close to the Mindanao Coast during the day and on the surface at night. Many contacts were made, all of which either got away or were too small to be worth-while targets. The great number of planes contacted in Davao Gulf. Finally on July 9th, the DACE made a submerged attack on a large transport with two escorts. She scored at least three hits. Various countermeasures made observation of final results impossible. A total of 43 depth charges were dropped, too close for comfort, but not close enough for severe damage.

On July 16th, the DACE penetrated Sarangani Bay and took periscope photographs. At dawn, July 20 off Fort Lebak, she contacted a well escorted tanker which passed just out of range. Surfacing later that morning the DACE started a long and hazardous chase in full view of the shore. The target was not seen again and the disappointment was intense.

Just after dawn July 26 smoke was seen on the horizon. This contact was chased all day, the DACE being forced to submerge eight times to avoid detection by planes. That night after dark contact was re-established and at 0049, the next morning, the DACE attacked on the surface. Ten torpedoes were fired into a convoy of three ships and six escorts -- one ship was sunk. The DACE was forced to submerge to avoid being rammed. Twenty-six depth charges were dropped.

The afternoon of July 31st, a submerged attack was made on a small unescorted freighter. One hit sank it at once but another torpedo exploded prematurely just outside the ship. It shook the boat and shattered light bulbs and gauge faces. The next morning the last four torpedoes were fired at a medium-sized freighter with four escorts. The freighter nimbly dodged all torpedoes while the escorts climbed on the DACE to the tune of 10 close depth charges. Later that morning the DACE, having expended all torpedoes, headed for the "barn." She arrived at Seeadler Harbor, August 6th, and left for Brisbane the next day. The DACE ran through very heavy weather in the Coral Sea, but arrived safely in Brisbane, Australia, on August 12th.

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7- USS DACE

This patrol was successful for purposes of awarding the Submarine Combat Insignia. The duration of the patrol was 60 days.

WAR PATROL NUMBER FIVE

Two hectic weeks of renewing acquaintance and visiting in Sydney, Toowoomba, Southport, Coolangatta, Redcliffe and tother areas along the east coast of Australia finally terminated with the announcement that the DACE had received an excellent refit and was ready for her fifth war patrol.

On September 1st, under the command of Commander B.D. Claggott, in company with the USS DARTER and escorts, the DACE departed from Brisbane. That same evening, while making a trim dive, a submerged object jarred the boat. Next morning an investigation with shallow-water diving apparatus revealed that the sonar head would be inoperative for the rest of the trip. Commander R.H. Crane, USN, training officer came aboard September 4th, and observed all battle and emergency drills for two days. Finally on the 10th, the DACE moored alongside the USS COUCAL at Darwin to replenish food and fuel. After an uneventful transit of the Banka Passage the patrol area was reached and the DACE commenced mine sweeping operation. With 20-millimeter gun fire she sank six drifting type mines and exploded one moored type (parts of which became firmly imbedded in the desk, and narrowly missed the Officer of the Deck). Reconnaissance and mine-sweeping assignments terminated on the 27th, when we moored alongside the USS ORION in Mios Qeondi Lagoon, Schouten Islands.

An untimely casualty to the master gyro compass forced the DACE into the "Reluctant Dragon Club" and departure was delayed until October 3. She then proceeded via Sibutu and East Ape Pass and reached the assigned area of Palawan Passage and Balabac Strait on October 10. The 13th proved a lucky day when a seven ship convoy of tankers and freighters with two destroyers escorting was sighted. Shortly after midnight on the 14th (after the navigator labored over charts, bearings, soundings, and ranges) the DACE had firmly established her position inside a treacherous area of reefs, shoals and islands and proceeded to attack. While firing (on the surface) one torpedo ran erratic and only expert maneuvering allowed the boat to continue the attack and avoid her own torpedo which porpoised and circled and threatened the destroyers and their Torpedo explosions in the targets alerted the destroyers and their tracers streaked through the air but no splashes of falling enemy shells were noticed. The DACE cleared threats at full speed to reload. Results of this attack were one 10,000-ton tanker sunk and one 7,500 ton transport sunk. Approaching daylight forced the ship to leave the hazardous area. On the 19th, two nosey, alert, Jap anti-submarine destroyers avoided our torpedoes and promptly retaliated with depth charges. Again shortly after midnight on the 22nd, while exchanging information with the USS DARTER, the radar contacted high speed enemy ships -- definitinedication of men-of-war. In conjunction with the DARTER the DACE, making maximum speed on the surface, set a course to intercept these desirable targets. But the enemy's radical change of course plus the advantage of greater speed permitted him to escape untouched and unseen.

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8- USS DACE

Our orders were to return to the base. However the Skipper had that "funny-feeling in his bones" and requested that the DACE be given permission to extend her time in the "hot spot." The next night (and again minutes after midnight) while talking to the DARTER, a long range radar contact put us in pursuit of the enemy. In this instance a failure in our most vital piece of equipment caused us to lose touch with our future targets. Teamwork on the part of the DARTER and our communication set-up permitted us to continue our chase. Meanwhile the expertly trained technicians worked "like mad" and in a short time had our equipment back in shape. At about 0200, an enemy task force of 12 big and important men-of-war surrounded by fast, cautious "tin-cans" was being plotted and recorded. So the Old-Man's hunch had materialized and the DACE and DARTER were making preparations for the big event to take place at dawn.

The DARTER made the first run and did a beautiful job of destroying Jap men-of-war. Shortly thereafter the DACE expertly executed attack at dawn which cost the Japs their biggest heavy cruiser--the MAYA. Of course a destroyer counter attack followed and the noise of torpedoes, the cruisers magazines exploding, the depth charging, and the sinking ships breaking up noises were terrific. The same night a crippled heavy cruiser with two torpedoes was trying to seek the safety of a nearby port, but the two subs had otherthoughts for that choice target so plans were made accordingly. Around midnight the DARTER went aground on Bombay Shoal. At 0140 on the 24th, with the DARTER still aground, the attack was brfoken off so that the DACE could stand by to render any services possible.

When it was recognized that the DARTER couldn't be saved only one alternative was left -- rescue the personnel. Hurriedly the DARTER crew was transferred in small rubber boats through surf and breakers to the DACE. On the last trip the Commanding Officer of the DARTER came aboard and the final destruction of the unfortunate DARTER was planned. While this job was being accomplished using torpedoes and guns and enemy plane appeared and dropped a couple of bombs. Luckily she selected the DARTER as his target. This interruption forced a stop to her destruction, So, with two full submarine crews aboard an already over-crowded sub, she proceeded to Freemantle, Western Australia. These two crews were together in one submarine for two weeks.

This patrol was successful for purposes of guarding the Submarine Combat Insignia. The duration of this patrol was 67 days.

At Freemantle, Western Australia, an excellent refit of normal duration, conducted by the USS EURYALE, was completed and the DACE was ready for her sixth war patrol. On November 21st, Commander B.D. Claggett (after four patrols as Commanding Officer) was relieved by Commander O.R. Cole, Jr., USN.

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9- USS DACE

December second the DACE in company with the USS BERGALL
starring her run which took her to Exmouth Gulf, Western Australia,
and through Lombok Straits. DACE and BERGALL parted company while
DACE doubled back to investigate a radar contact. Then the DACE
proceeded along the Singapore -- Hong-Kong trade route with the
hopes of intercepting some enemy traffic. This hope wasn't realized
so the DACE continued on to Pulau Gambir. The channel between Pulau
Gambir and the mainland was an excellent night refuge for shipping
so the DACE was assigned the task of making that spot less desir-
able. After the many hours the navigator spent in determining
currents, depths, reefs, the task of mining this channel was started
at 0330 on December 16th, and was completed one hour and fifteen
minutes later. Later that afternoon loud explosions were heard but
the heavy seas prevented any visual verification of what the DACE
thought to be the results of an effectively mined area.

The next assignment was the area off Camranh Bay. Heavy seas
and strong wind made for a miserable existence. Submerged patroll-
ing proved difficult because of the sea conditions. On the 19th, a
convoy of five large ships with three escorts was sighted and the
attack started. Bad weather was certainly in the enemy's favor. At
times the targets could not be seen and again the periscopes would
be exposed too much. Depth control was difficult but expertly handled.
Just as the first torpedo was to be sent on its way, a series of
four depth charges or bombs went off which shook the boat violently,
and cork and paint chips filtered down from the overhead. More
depth charges followed the initial pattern, starting some oil leaks,
causing light bulbs to break, and more paint and cork to fall. The
DACE decided to break off the attack and evade. She hit bottom, and
while resting there anxiously waiting for the escorts to go away,
the strong current took charge, and carried the DACE bumping, turning,
scraping and clanking along the bottom. How the boat avoided being
detected will never be known. She surfaced, after making some repairs
and proceeded to an area farther north. At 0459, on the 21st, another
contact put us in hot pursuit of the enemy, but after closing the
range she decided the target was too small and an unsuccessful attack
would only divulge her position, so the sub abandoned the chase. The
enemy had another jibe and promptly proceeded to launch his own attack.
The DACE outdistanced the chaser without being recognized or seen and
dove to definitely lose him. On that day a main engine was flooded so
she surfaced at 0750 and located the trouble. At 0100 on the 22nd,
while heading into the seas at slow speed, the topside damage was
repaired and the engine was put back in commission. During the next
few days numerous contacts were made which were either impossible to
attack or too small to do anything about. Christmas Day was just
another day of patrol except that the cook and baker did an
excellent job of preparing a delicious and unforgettable dinner.

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10- USS DACE

While running on the surface many floating mines were detected so the lookouts were doubly cautious. On the 28th, another opportunity presents itself --this one resulting in sinking one medium freighter of 4,000 tons and damaging one medium freighter of 4,000 tons. In the days that followed, planes and small ships were contacted but not targets of any size worthy of torpedoes were sighted so our presence remained a secret.

December 31st, a worth,-while periscope contact of two columns of ships was made at 1000. The Captain's plan was to avoid the ever-closing escorts which were shielding the group and to locate himself between the two columns. While trying to keep in close touch with all the ships and still keep our presence unknown the Captain sighted planes -- which served to increase to our already numerous interfer-ences. Intense anti-submarine measures were being employed by the protectors of the Japanese ships so the Skipper had to be extremely careful. Fortunately for the Japs and unfortunately for the DACE, an escort carrier (which was the target singled out for her attack) was at an excessive range for our torpedoes -- or else sighted and avoided our torpedoes, and consequently got away untouched. A plane dropped a depth bomb but his aim was off, so no damage was done. At 1233, while making preparations for surfacing another bomb was dropped -- this one also not too close. After surfacing at 1433, we set out to run down the evasive targets but a plane, forced us to dive two minutes later and again a depth charge was felt -- but wasn't close either. In the next hour or so more depth charges were dropped -- but fortunately none did any damage.

The next few days were spent in normal patrol and on January 7th, the DACE made preparations for the trip to Saipan. On the 8th, two suspicious vessels which were investigated, proved to be Chinese junks. They were left untouched. On January 17th, the DACE reached Saipan and moored alongside the USS SKIPJACK alongside the USS FULFON. On the 18th, the DACE departed Saipan enroute Pearl Harbor, where she arrived on the twenty-eighth.

The patrol was successful for purposes of awarding the Submarine Combat Insignia. The duration of this patrol was 58 days.

On January 28th, 1945, the DACE arrived in Pearl Harbor where she received voyage repairs. She then proceeded to the San Francisco Bay Area for her first Navy Yard overhaul.

From February 8th, until April 25th, the ship underwent a complete and satisfactory overhaul at the Submarine Repair Basin, Bethlehem Steel Company. During this period all personnel and offices were given 30 days leave and were transferred and new men reported aboard. Lieutenant Commander R.C. Benitez, USN, was relieved as Executive Officer and Navigator by Lieutenant F.J. Ruder, USN, on March 12, 1945.

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11- USS DACE

April 26th, the DACE departed San Francisco enroute Pearl Harbor in company with the USS WHALE.

The two subs arrived Pearl Harbor on May fifth. For six days they under-went a voyage refit then started the training period with Captain C.C. Burlingame, USN, as training officer.

The seventh war patrol started May 25th. Two subs, the DACE and the USS CABEZON, left for the cold waters of the Kuriles Islands.

On the 29th, they laid over at Midway for fuel and supplies.

From April 30th, till June 7th, the two ships, enroute to station, conducted training exercises and drills individually and together. The evening of the 7th, they separated and headed in for their patrol stations. The DACE closed the coast that night and dived in Kunashiro (Channel) between the islands of Shikotan and Kunashiri.

Early that morning two sailing vessels were sighted through the periscope. The DACE tracked them with difficulty in the ever thickening fog. Finally preparations were made and at 0945, she surfaced in smooth water in a fog with Japanese islands only a few miles on either side of them. At a range of only 1600 yards she opened fire with her five-inch gun and automatic weapons.

The first shot from the forward gun hit the largest sailing vessel in the bow. In a couple of minutes, a five-inch shell which hit amidships started a roaring fire. Jap flags painted on the side made perfect targets for the gun crews. The DACE closed in to 500 yards and made certain the destruction was complete. She then turned her attention to the other sailing vessels.

A small rowboat with one or maybe two survivors was being rowed furiously into the fog towards the nearest beach. The second vessel was completely deserted. In a few minutes it too was reduced to a smouldering wreck.

By this time, the fog had cleared enough so that the nearby shores were visible. The DACE moved away from the scene of the wreckage, then dived.

This was the first time the DACE had ever surfaced and fired her guns at an enemy ship.

The DACE finally left the area on the ninth of June and headed into the Sea of Okhotsk.

The early morning of June 10th, a large freighter and a small tanker were sighted about eight miles ahead. The DACE went ahead full speed in order to run around the ships and get ahead of them. At one time the fog cleared up enough to show a large destroyer escort only six miles away. For a couple of minutes the personnel on the bridge watched this Japanese warship, then the fog obscured her again.

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12- USS DACE

An hour later another escort was seen for a few minutes, then disappeared. The convoy now consisted of two rather potent escorts, one freighter, and a small tanker.

At about noon all hands had lunch, then the sub waited dead ahead of the convoy. In a half hour the first escort came into sight and the DACE submerged.

Silently the DACE slipped unseen under the water between the two escorts. The freighter: was dead ahead and coming towards her bows on. The DACE maneuvered out of the way, and with the freighter only 380 yards away, she fired. Almost instantly the first torpedo hit the freighter with a tremendous explosion amidships. Quickly more torpedoes were fired at the smaller tanker but none hit. The Captain took a quick look at the escorts through the periscope and discovered one of them coming straight for the submarine. Quickly another torpedo was fired at this escort, then the DACE dived deep. Just before the periscope was lowered a quick glance at the freighter proved that the first torpedo had done its job well. As she dived to deeper depths the noise of the freighter breaking up on her way towards the bottom was clearly audible through the hull.

A couple of minutes of silence passed, then four depth charges shook the boat. Someone remarked: "If you think that was loud wait until you hear the next ones." The breaking up noises from the freighter continued. The escort could be heard coming back for another run. A quick set-up was made and another torpedo was fired.

Shortly afterwards and explosion that sounded like a torpedo hit, rumbled through the boat, In quick succession 19 more explosions went off overhead. Five minutes of silence passed. Twelve depth charges exploded close by and shook the ship slightly.

For the next few hours the DACE silently eased away from the searching escorts, one of which was probably badly damaged. Finally late that afternoon after four hours of freezing quiet the DACE came close to the surface for a periscope look -- all clear. The heaters were turned on and everyone restored circulation in their numb limbs by stamping their feet and drinking hot coffee.

After dark, the DACE surfaced in very rough seas. She went back to the scene of the action but could locate no wreckage. She then headed for the area of Kita Uruppu Channel.

June 11-16, the DACE patrolled back and forth in the channel. Some days were exceptionally clear and the snow-capped peaks of Shimishura Take towered high over her. Other days were foggy and bleak.

On the 16th, the DACE joined company with the CABEZON, the USS APOGON and the USS MANTA. The four subs made a wide patrol sweep up the eastern side of the KURILES. During this sweep the first plane for this patrol was contacted -- no bombs.

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13- USS DACE

On the 17th, the pack received orders to search for the crew of a U.S. Army plane which had been forced down near Araidō To. Each sub headed for her assigned area and arrived there next day early. The whole day was spent on the surface in a light mist and only five to ten miles away from Araidō to. Most of the time the lofty island was clearly visible.

The aviators could not be found. That afternoon a single Jap plane took off from a nearby air field and searched a while on the other side of the island. He never saw the DACE although she was only 15 miles away. An hour later, another plane appeared only 6 miles away so the DACE dived.

That eve: after she had surfaced the DACE sighted quite a bit of gunfire about 20 miles away but could not find out what it was all about.

On the 18th, the DACE proceeded down the western side of the Kuriles alon. Later that night she contacted a single ship. For a couple of hours she tracked and ran around the ship in order to get ahead of it. During this time, several distant underwater explosions were heard. The APOGON had located a convoy and was working it over.

Shortly after midnight the DACE was ahead of her target. It was very dark, but the water was constantly illuminated with phosphorescence. She turned toward her target and waited on the surface in the darkness. Soon the target was close enough and the torpedoes were fired. The water was churned into a brilliant flue flame by force of the expulsion of the torpedoes. Each torpedo left a brilliant streak in the highly phosphorescent water. The Jap saw them coming and maneuvered so that they passed down both sides of him. By this time, the ships were very close and had materialized into a heavily armed anti submarine MIKURA-class frigate. The DACE rapidly turned away and bent on full power. A cloud of exhaust smoke poured out of her engines and momentarily hid her from view. Twin flashes appeared on the bow of the Jap and two explosions resounded through the air. A faint cheer went up from the crew below -- they thought the Jap had been hit by the DACE's torpedoes. Two shells exploded ahead of the DACE. Another salvo came so close that the whistling of the shells could be heard in the conning tower. One exploded close to the ship. The DACE fired more torpedoes -- no luck. She dived rapidly and deep, and fired yet another torpedo. This was not a case of hitting the target -- it was a case of saving the DACE for V-J Day. The next three minutes were spent hanging on as the sub rocked and was shaken by 18 large and loud depth charges.

— page 16 —
14- USS DACE

The DACE maneuvered and evaded far below the surface while the Jap attempted to relocate her. He dropped 18 more charges which were not too close. A couple of hours later he had wandered so far away from the DACE that she secured from battle stations and allowed every-one not on watch to turn in for a well-earned rest. Some slight damage from the depth charging was noticed, but nothing serious -- only the usual broken light bulbs, scattered cork insulations, some small leads broken and some small valves backed off of their seats.

June 20-26, the DACE patrolled in the Sea of Okhotsk.

One day during a heavy overcast, the bridge watch were startled to hear the whine of an approaching airplane. As the sub dived, the last man down the hatch saw the Japs plane roar about 100 feet overhead. A half-minute later the sub was under and bullets were dropping on to the hull as the plane tried to strafe. One small depth bomb went off, but it missed by a wide margin.

Once during this time the DACE dropped a few shells into a sulphur refinery close to the beach at Moyoro Wan, but it was so hazy that no results were observed.

On the 26th, the DACE joined the other members of the wold pack and continued a sweep through the Okhotsk Sea, amalong the lower channels of the Kuriles Island chain.

On the 27th, she closed in one morning on a contact and finally recognized her as a Russian Merchant ship -- a lend-lease Liberty type ship.

On the second of July, the subs operated independently and the DACE went to Kita Uruppu channel for patrol.

No contacts were made, so on July 6th, the DACE and CABEZON again joined company and left the area.

The patrol was deemed successful for the Submarine Combat Insignia. The duration of this patrol was 47 days.

POST - WAR PERIOD

The DACE and CABEZON arrived at Midway on July 25, 1945. For two weeks the relief crew overhauled the ship while the officers and crew enjoyed themselves sunning, fishing and engaging in competitive sports. The DACE and CABEZON engaged in an athletic competition for a plaque to be presented to the winning ship. The DACE now has the plaque as a trophy in her forward battery passageway.

On August 4th, the two subs got underway for another war patrol. They arrived at Saipan on August 13th for voyage repairs.

The ship was all ready to leave on August 15th, 1945, at 1400. At 6am in the morning, Japan agreed to surrender terms, and the patrol was delayed indefinitely.

— page 17 —
15- USS DACE

For two weeks the DACE remained in Saipan. A quarter of the crew and officers were assigned to man any Jap subs which might appear for surrender. They returned to the DACE ten days later without seeing a Jap submarine.

On September 1, 1945, the DACE set sail for Pearl Harbor in company with the USS ORION, USS RAY, USS CREVALIE and USS ICEFISH.

After an uneventful trip they all arrived in Pearl Harbor on September 10,1945, and waited for the orders which would take them all home for good.

On September 13, 1945, the DACE, MUSKAILUNGE, CREVALIE, and GATO departed for Panama and home. The DACE was scheduled to return to New London on October 5th. She had made seven war patrols in two years and two months active duty, and sunk or damaged over 73,000 tons of enemy ships.

By Directive dated January 1947, USS DACE (SS 247) was later placed out of commission, in reserve, attached to the U. S. Atlantic Reserve Fleet.

SUMMARY OF PATROL RESULTS

| No. of Patrols | Number and Type of Ships | Tonnage of Ships | Number and Type of Ships Damaged | Tonnage of Ships Sunk |
||||||
| 1               | 0                        | 0                | Freighter (EC) KYOKKO MARU type | 6,783               |
| 2               | 0                        | 0                | Tanker (EU)                     | 10,000              |
| 3               | 0                        | 0                | 0                             | 0                   |
| 4               | 1-AK (EU) 1-SMC (EU) | 2,000 1,200 | 1 AP (EU)                     | 10,000              |
| 5               | 1-AO (EU) 1-AP (EU) 1-CA (ATAGO class) | 10,000 7,500 12,500 | 0                             | 0                   |
| 6               | 1-AK                     | 4,000            | 1 AK                          | 4,000              |
| 7               | 1-AK EIHUKU class (EU) | 4,000            | 1 PF (MIKURA) (EC)           | 1,500              |

— page 19 —
1/2
SS247/A12-2
U.S.S. DACE (SS247)

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
December 11, 1943.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Division 144.
       (2) The Commander Submarines Pacific, Subordinate
          Command.
       (3) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific
          Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Subject report.
       (B) Track chart of patrol in area assigned for
          Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the First War Patrol of
   this vessel, conducted along the southeast coast of HONSHU and
   the approaches to Nagoya, during the period October 20, 1943
   and December 11, 1943, is forwarded herewith.

/s/ J.F. ENRIGHT
DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY: 00-2022-0 DATE: 1/2/43

63096

— page 20 —
1943. On October 4, 1943 went alongside the U.S.S. BUSHNELL for voyage repairs. Installed additional 20MM gun aft. Installed brackets for (2) 50 cal. guns on deck. Shifted positions of periscopes due to interference between officer at forward periscope and radar operator during night attacks. October 9, 1943 fired (6) Mark 18 torpedoes forward in satisfactory test. Was depermed and conducted sound test. Independent operations in area on 10th, and started training period. 6 days with target including 2 nights.

(B) NARRATIVE

Oct. 20th
1300 (VW) Departed Pearl with PC 586 as escort.
1600 (VW) Trim dive.
1915 (VW) Released escort.

Oct. 21st
0810 (VW) Training dive.
0910 (VW) Sighted B24 liberator. We challenged and he used current reply. He continued to close up, and at 1 mile we fired flare. He approached close aboard, then on his way.
1450 (VW) Sighted and exchanged recognition signals with PBY.
1500 (VW) Changed time to plus 10.
1850 (VW) Secured #2 main engine. Connecting rod bearing wiped, badly scoring the journal. No apparent cause for casualty. Sent message to Midway concerning required repairs.

Oct. 22nd
Training dive and fire control drill.

Oct. 23rd
Training dive and fire control drill. The ship is 3 months old. 152 dives - 10,350 miles.

Oct. 24th
0800 (VW) Met Midway plane escort.
0930 (Y) Moored alongside U.S.S. SPERRY. Started work on #2 main engine.
1015 (Y) Received CTF 17 message 241823.

Oct. 25th and 26th
SPERRY continued work on #2 main engine.

— page 21 —
1. U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.
2. Nov. 6th 0630 (All times are King)
3. First contact. Radar range 13,700 yards bearing North. Stopped and tracked. Found his course to be 215, speed 8.5. Paralleled his course, then closed in when data checked. Target sighted from bridge at 5500 yard range. He appeared to be similar to the KYOKKO NARU, 6783 tons. No other ships in sight but radar reported 2 big pips and 2 smaller, all about the same bearing. Fired 4 torpedoes - 2 to hit, and the others spread 20. Swung left, expected target to blow up. No results. Fired 2 stern tubes with depth set at 10 feet. One hit is claimed as an explosion was heard on time for the first shot, and a large amount of black smoke came out of the stack. He changed course toward the beach. We started to chase the target again when another ship was sighted dead ahead, range 3500 yards. This was probably an AO as his stack was aft. Assumed that this ship was not in the original target group as he had not been sighted previously and was about 5000 yards from the other ship. This one was escorted by two PC's about 300 yards on either beam. The nearest PC started blinking a light at us, (Did not read challenge). Put a snap set up on TDC and fired 3 bow shots at 10 feet. No results. The torpedoes exploded at end of run, and about 15 minutes later the escort vessels swept the horizon with searchlights and dropped 5 or 6 depth charges.

The misses on the first salvo at the AK can be accounted for as a control error. The TDC selective switch was on "Position Keeper" only and not "Position Keeper and Angle Solver". The operator inaccurately placed it in this position in the dark and didn't use a flashlight to check. Luminous paint has now been added. The gyro angles were in error 130.

The misses on the second target can be accounted for as an error in the course estimate. The range was large, but not excessive. The escort sighted us shortly after we sighted the target and it was too late to dive. It was necessary to get the shots off without further checking before the escorts starting shooting and the target maneuvered.

— page 22 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.
- Oct. 27th
   - Work completed and engine tested. Underway with plane escort. Zig-zagging at 3 engine speed.
   - Escort departed.
   - Trim dive.
   - Crossed 180th meridian. Advanced calendar 1 day.
- Oct. 29th
   - Trim dive.
- Oct. 30th
   - Radar contact on starboard beam, 4700 yards. Turned away at full speed to avoid as the TARPON and LAPON were both expected. Lost contact immediately.
   - Trim dive and fire control problem.
- Oct. 31st
   - Barometer dropped 15 points in 7 hours. Wind and sea increased to force 4. Totally overcast. Rain squalls.
   - Trim dive. Fire control drill. Wind and sea quieted down during day.
- Nov. 1st
   - Trim dive.
- Nov. 2nd
   - Barometer dropped 18 points in 7 hours. High seas.
- Nov. 3rd
   - Training dive. So far have sighted only 4 empty oil drums and 2 glass net balls.
- Nov. 4th
   - Training dive.
   - Increased to 80-90 on 3 main engines and changed course from 263° to 270°.
   - Passed 15 miles north Hachijo Shima using occasional SD ranges and fathometer soundings.
- Nov. 5th
   - Sighted lights of plane dead ahead about 2 miles, North- ly course. Dove in SE corner of area. Planned to surface again but decided to make repairs as the trim pump wouldn't pump, the drain pump couldn't get a suction, and #2 sanitary tank sea and stop valves were both leaking badly. Made repairs in about 2 hours.
   - Periscope patrol on westerly course during day bucking 1½ knot current.
- Nov. 5th
   - Surface and headed toward center of area.
- 1814 (K)
   - (2)

— page 24 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

Nov. 7th
The sea condition was such, force 4, that radar depth was not feasible. Therefore the surface attack was made and it was planned that accurate 'data would give us hits even at the range necessary to keep from being sighted.

Conducted submerged patrol in heavy seas.

Nov. 8th
Submerged patrol. During night navigated by hourly fathomometer soundings and unidentified radar pips. No sights in 48 hours and land obscured by haze and clouds.

Nov. 9th
Submerged patrol. Rain and fog. Visibility in morning 1-1/2 miles, sea force 4-5. Barometer dropped 27 points during dive.

Nov. 10th
Weather cleared and moderated. Navigator got sights at 0100. Closed coast and picked up Kashino Saki light. Normal brillancy, but characteristics changed to 5 seconds on and 2 seconds off. When about 10 miles from the light, the characteristics changed to steady white, and apparent jamming on the SD was noted for 20 minutes.

Conducted periscope patrol along the coast.

1738 Sighted masts of patrol boat bearing 240, distance 3 miles.

1835 Surfaced. Immediately after surfacing, 4 bright steady lights came on in vicinity of Miki Saki and stayed on for about 2 minutes--then off.

1838 2 lookouts sighted red and green lights of a plane. Dove.

1900 Surfaced.

Nov. 11th
Sighted small lighted boat bearing 3100T., distance 4 miles.

0635 Closed coast in vicinity of Miki Saki.

0847 Dived.

0923 Sighted DAVIS type float plane patrolling coast in vicinity of Kantori Saki and about 10 miles north. This plane was in sight almost continuously until 1200 and was patrolling the same section, but no shipping sighted.

1200-1230 Sighted (2) sail boats and (3) picket boats with a high lookout platform on mast.

1225 Heard persistent pinging, could not sight any shipping except sail boats and picket boats. A single fathometer ping was taken about 1215 to check position due to using various hard-to-identify peaks and projections for bearings.

— page 25 —
1. USS S24.7 - Report of First War Patrol.

Nov. 11th
1230
1500
1540
1843
2129

Pinging much stronger and apparently on us. He was getting an echo. Went deep and rigged for silent running. Pinging died out. No screws were heard at anytime. There was a fairly good negative gradient at 230 feet which probably effected his echo ranging, but it was very clear on our sound gear. Secured from silent running and resumed periscope patrol. Surfaced. Moon very bright. Patrolling in moon streak. Sighted what we thought to be a patrol boat bearing 330 T., distance 11,000 yards, angle on bow 200 starboard. Turned stern toward him and commenced tracking with radar. First radar range 10,300 yards. When it became evident that he had sighted us and headed directly for us we put all engines on and made full power on 150T. The patrol boat materialized into a destroyer. For the next twenty-two minutes he continued to close us at the rate of 200 yards per minute, angle on the bow zero, bearing 180° relative. When the range had closed to 6000 yards made ready three tubes aft, set depth on 6 feet, fired one half degree spread, relative speed of target and torpedo 60.5 knots, torpedo run 3 minutes. Expected to see him make a thirty second dive and when he didn't, we did. Turned off track, and before we were leveled off he dropped 4 depth charges on the track, not close. He never slowed down and was shortly lost on the sound gear. He apparently did not see the wakes as he did not change course.

Nov. 12th
01142
0617
2034
2045
2106
2345
2034
2045
2106
2345

Surfaced and set course back to the center of the area. It was disconcerting to know we are visible 11,000 yards in this moonlight in spite of being trimmed down. It is realized that the torpedoes did not have a particularly good chance of hitting, but that chance was taken in hopes we could get rid of our first CHIDORI. Dived.

Nov. 13th
0405
0600
C622

Surfaced. SD contact 14 miles. Contact closed to 5 miles. Dived. Surfaced. Sighted single patrol boat or CHIDORI bearing 2150 T., distance 6 miles.

Sighted small boat--not identified. Heard and felt heavy object hit port side. Possibly an oil drum in the seaway. Dived.

(5)

— page 26 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

Nov. 13th
0755 Sighted light bomber, KATE, 0550T., 8 miles course 210.
1030 Sighted 6 bombers on southerly course bearing 3400T.
1836 Surfaced.
2106 SD contact 15 miles.
2108 SD contact 16 miles.
2305 SD contact 5 miles. Dived.
2355 Surfaced.

Nov. 14th
0010 SD contact 6 miles.
0042 SD contact 9 miles.
0044 SD contact 5 miles. Dived.
0155 Surfaced.
0156 SD contact 6 miles. Dived as it continued to close.
0311 Surfaced.
0316 SD contact 4 miles. Dived and stayed down.
The following conclusions were reached concerning the SD and the night flying planes without lights. The Japs have a means of determining when the SD is on in the vicinity but cannot accurately DIT when on 5 seconds each minute. The plane patrols in the area until the SD goes off, indicating that the sub dove. Then the plane continues patrolling in that vicinity hoping to sight the sub in the moonlight on surfacing. After we were once located fairly closely with the bright moon, it was necessary to either continue to use the SD for indicating the planes presence, or remain down. However on the following nights in the area the SD was not used. No other night flying planes were sighted, and it is not known if they were there or not.
1830 Surfaced. After battery charge used L engine heading for southern part of the area to east.
2034 Secured port shaft and removed lube oil in reduction gear. Water entered gear box around pump shaft from bilges.
2113 Increased speed on both shafts.

Nov. 15th
0006 Sighted Hachijo Jima at 40 miles.
0519 Slowed and changed course to 1280T.
0555 Sight contact of 1 CY or SHOKAKU class and 3 or more destroyers. Bearing 1800T., radar range 18000 yards. Angle on bow about 90 starboard. It was starting to get light and we were silhouetted.
0557 Dived. Attempted to close but it was out of the question. The nearest screen was sighted in the periscope about 2 minutes after diving. Range 6000 yards.
0710 Set course 255 back to area.
1815 Surfaced.

— page 27 —
1.6th
0510
0629
1812
2132
Nov. 17th
0505
0616
1352
Nov. 18th
0216
0647
1820
2215
Nov. 19th
0632
0909
0925
0945
1055
1146
1530
1627
1755

U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

Reentered area. Set course 310°T.
Dived.
Surfaced.
SJ land contact 10,400 yards.

Got fix with DATO SAKI and ANORI SAKI lights.
Normal brilliancy but altered characteristics.
Dived south of Daio Saki. Periscope patrol 6-10 miles south Daio Saki.
Sighted 4 engine land bomber, course 310, elevation 1000 feet.

Sighted small darkened boat 4 miles bearing 3300 T.
Dived. Conducted periscope patrol in East and West courses in Enshu Nada. Overcast. Land obscured by haze.
Surfaced.
Sighted hospital ship at 20,000 yards properly illuminated on course for Iro Saki.

Dived 10 miles Southwest Daio Saki and closed coast.
Sighted (2) DAVE type planes, 1500 feet, on course south.
Sighted Ida type plane 300 feet, westerly course.
Sighted small patrol boat similar to our Coast Guard 83 foot cutters. Angle on bow zero, range 2000 yards.
Changed course to avoid and went to hand operation on bow and stern planes.
Sighted bomber, BETTY, bearing 060, course 290, elevation 1000 feet.
Sighted sailing ship of approximately 200 tons. Bearing north on westerly course. Distance 6000 yards.
Sighted (2) small sail boats 6000 yards bearing northwest.
Sighted (2) unescorted ships. One bearing 2580T., and the other 3360T.--range to each about 9,000 yards.
Started approach on the one bearing 2580 as his stack was aft and probably a tanker.
The angle on the bow was 300 starboard when sighted. Then it changed to 30 port as he changed course for Daio Saki light. When the range decreased to 5000 yards the ship reversed course and the angle on the bow was 177 starboard. The range continued to open until he went out of sight. The other ship was also out of sight now. Sound could not pick up heavy screws on either target but did have light fast screws in vicinity of the AO.
Sighted patrol boat coming from the position the AO disappeared. Angle on bow zero, range 6000 yards. Changed course to 1500 to get off his track. He started to echo range about this time, but we did not believe he (7)

— page 29 —
22nd Nov. 0625
0735 Dived. Sighted masts and smoke bearing 3100T. Battle stations and started approach. Discontinued approach at 4000 yards when target was determined to be a small 1500 ton coastal tramp with probably a shallow draft. It is possible that this was a Q boat as his appearance with a high bow and quiet screws in addition to his size make him very similar to Q ships as previously reported.
0925 Sighted 4 engine bomber. Sighted another CHIDORI. Range 7000 yards, course 2300, speed 18. He passed 3500 yards astern. Sound picked him up at 7000 yards after sighting and followed him out to about 10,000.
1835 Surfaced. Patrol led during night on the CHIDORI track for Omai Saki to Shiono Misaki in case he was going after a suitable target. Missed serial lettered "HOWH," Haiku schedule not as dependable as NPM.

Nov. 23rd
0640 Dived. Sighted 4 engine bomber, MAVIS, 6 miles, 3000 feet, course 3100T.
1845 Surfaced.

Nov. 24th
0637 Dived. Surfaced.

Nov. 25th
0635 Dived. Surfaced.

Nov. 26th
0633 Dived. Surfaced.

Nov. 27th
0300 Dive for trim and BT card. Surfaced.
0340 Dived. Surfaced. Set course back to area.

Nov. 28th
0645 Dived. Surfaced.

— page 30 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

Nov. 29th
Reentered area.
0647 Dived.
1630 Surfaced.

Nov. 30th
0639 Dived.
1828 Surfaced.

Dec. 1st
0650 Dived.
0949 Sighted black smoke. Bearing changed to south. Went to normal approach course.
1020 Smoke disappeared. Nothing else sighted.
1023 Sighted small sail boat, 3440T., 6000 yards.
1718 Sighted patrol boat apparently lying to. 2350T., 3000 yards. Changed course putting him astern.
1737 Patrol boat out of sight. No sound contact at any time.
1832 Surfaced.
1834 Sighted signal lights of two boats in vicinity of previously sighted patrol.

Dec. 2nd
0546 Dived.
1828 Surfaced.

Dec. 3rd
0659 Dived.
1826 Surfaced.

Dec. 4th
CJ32 Sighted lights of small boat, apparently fishing.
0654 Dived. Seas too rough for periscope observations, even at starboard speed. Rolling 150 at 120 feet.
.1620 Sound picked up light fast (230 r.p.m.) screws of either a CHIDORI or PC boat. As the screws were definitely of a patrol or escort vessel, and no other around, did not risk broaching to see him.
1652 sound clear.
1821 Surfaced. Cleared area on return trip.

— page 31 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

Dec. 5th
0100  Hachija shima abeam to starboard, distance 20 miles.
0645  Div'd.
0730  Surfaced--started zig-zagging at 3 engine speed.
1745  Slowed to 2 engine speed and secured zig-zagging.

Dec. 6th
0620  Div'd.
0641  Surfaced.
1225  Sighted 4 engine bomber on westerly course. Div'd.
1311  Surfaced.

2000-2300  Unable to get our message 061045 through because of jamming.

Dec. 7th
Uneventful.

Dec. 8th
Barometer dropped 21 points between 1000 and 1400. Wind and sea from southwest increased to force 6. Rain and poor visibility.

Sent message 080920 to Midway.

Dec. 9th
Wind, rain, and overcast weather with poor visibility continued.

Dec. 10th
Weather cleared but wind and heavy sea from west continues.

Dec. 11th
Uneventful.
2400  Set calendar back 1 day.

Dec. 11th
0605  Met Midway escort planes.

— page 32 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(C) WEATHER
(Enroute to Station)

The wind and sea were generally of force 3 or 4 and the sky was totally overcast approximately half the time. At no time was the weather really bad in spite of a rapidly falling barometer on 2 occasions.

(on Station)

The weather was variable. The wind was frequently of force 4, and then in a matter of minutes die down completely. The direction of the wind was also variable but more than fifty per cent of the time from the North or West. Swells were present constantly, and in some cases were large.

The sky was completely overcast a great deal of time, but would clear and cloud up again in a matter of minutes. There was little rain. The land was generally covered by haze and low lying clouds.

The air temperature averaged approximately 50°F. While the moon is out, ever a quarter, the night is very bright.

(Enroute from station)

The first part of the trip back the weather was good. Then the barometer dropped rapidly, seas and winds increased and visibility became poor with frequent rain. The wind and sea were from the west, force 6. After the barometer rose two days later, the visibility became excellent, the wind decreased, but large swells continued.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

The Japanese current is the strongest in this vicinity and averaged about 1½ knots. However, at times it was entirely lacking, and at another time reach 4.3 knots during a 12-hour period. The axis of the current shifts south during a north wind. The injection temperature is a good indication as to whether or not you are in the current. In the absence of the wind, the set was not observed north of a line 070-250 drawn through 34°N 138°E. The set was generally observed to be south of east, instead of north of east as shown on the chart.

In Kumano Nada during a east wind a current of 2 knots was experienced to the west.

— page 33 —
1. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
Kashino Saki Light - Normal brilliancy. Characteristic changed to white, on 5 seconds and off 2 seconds; when our "SD" was apparently detected as being in the vicinity the light remained steady white.
Miki Saki Light - Visible 30 miles - 3 white flashes every 45 seconds.
Daio Saki Light - Normal brilliancy. White, 1 second flash every 15 seconds.
Anori Saki Light - Normal brilliancy. White, 5 second flash every 50 seconds.

These lights were not used every night, but seemed to be used only when the visibility was not excellent.

— page 34 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

| NO. | DATE  | TIME (K) | LAT. & LONG. | TYPE | INITIAL RANGE | EST. COU- RSE | SPEED | HOW CON- TACT. | REMARKS |
|-----|-------|||------|||-------|||
| 1   | Nov. 7 | 0336    | 34-21N      | 1AK  | 13,700      | 215        | 8.5K   | R          | AK damaged 1 Hit |
|     |       |          | 137-21E     | 1AO  | 2PC        |             |       |             |         |
| 2   | Nov. 10| 1738    | 33-19N      | Patrol | 6,000       | -          | -     | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 136-39E     |      |              |             |       |             |         |
| 3   | Nov. 11| 0239    | 33-45N      | Small | 8,000       | -          | -     | SN          | Lighted. |
|     |       |          | 136-26E     | Boat  |              |             |       |             |         |
| 4   | Nov. 11| 1200    | 33-37N      | 2 sail | 3-7,000     | Var.       | -     | P          | A boat with echo ranging present but not identified, |
|     |       |          | 136-07E     | boats |              |             |       |             |         |
| 5   | Nov. 11| 2129    | 33-40N      | DD or  | 11,000      | 150        | 23.5   | SN          |         |
|     |       |          | 136-36E     | Chidori|              |             |       |             |         |
| 6   | Nov. 12| 2345    | 34-05N      | PC or  | 12,000      | -          | -     | SN          |         |
|     |       |          | 137-44E     | Chidori|              |             |       |             |         |
| 7   | Nov. 15| 0555    | 33-55N      | CV &  | 18,000      | 305        | 22     | SN          |         |
|     |       |          | 140-32E     | 3-5 DD |              |             |       |             |         |
| 8   | Nov. 18| 2215    | 33-50N      | Hospital| 136-50E     | Ship  | 20,000      | 60        | 14     | SN          | Illuminated. |
| 9   | Nov. 19| 0945    | 34-08N      | Patrol | 2,000       | 270        | 6      | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 136-40E     |      |              |             |       |             |         |
| 10  | Nov. 19| 1146    | 34-11N      | Sailing| 6,000       | 250        | 10     | P          | 200 tons |
|     |       |          | 136-37E     | Ship  |              |             |       |             |         |
| 11  | Nov. 19| 1530    | 34-12N      | 2 Sail | 6,000       | 270        | -     | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 136-40E     | boats |              |             |       |             |         |
| 12  | Nov. 19| 1627    | 34-13N      | 1AK  | 9,000       | 240        | 12     | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 136-33E     |      |              |             |       |             |         |
| 13  | Nov. 19| 1627    | 34-07N      | 1AO  | 14,000      | 030        | 10     | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 136-25E     |      |              |             |       |             |         |
| 14  | Nov. 19| 1755    | 34-08N      | Patrol | 6,000       | 090        | 6      | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 136-25E     |      |              |             |       |             |         |
| 15  | Nov. 22| 0735    | 34-29N      | Coastal| 10,000     | 080        | 7      | P          | 1500 tons |
|     |       |          | 137-52E     | Freighter|              |             |       |             |         |
| 16  | Nov. 22| 1429    | 34-28N      | Torpedo| 7,000      | 230        | 18     | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 137-45E     | Boat  |              |             |       |             |         |
| 17  | Dec. 1 | 1023    | 33-41N      | Sail  | 6,000       | 090        | -     | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 136-37E     | Boat  |              |             |       |             |         |
| 18  | Dec. 1 | 1718    | 33-42N      | Patrol | 3,000       | -          | -     | P          |         |
|     |       |          | 137-51E     |      |              |             |       |             |         |

Abbreviations under "HOW CONTACTED" - P - Periscope
R - Radar
SN - Surface night

(14)

— page 35 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Not including friendly)

| NO. | DATE  | TIME | NO. | LAT. | LONG. | TYPE    | COURSE | HOW CONTACT | ELEV. |
|-----|-------|------|-----|------|-------||||-------|
| 1   | Nov. 5 | 0305 | 1   | 33-07N | 138-20E | -      | 000     | SN       | 500   |
| 2   | Nov. 10| 1838 | 1   | 33-18N | 136-50E | -      | 090     | SN       | 500   |
| 3   | Nov. 11| 0847 | 6   | 33-40N | 136-15E | Fighters | 270    | P        | 500   |
| 4   | Nov. 11| 0923-| 1   | 33-45N | 136-06E | DAVE   | Var.    | P        | 2000  | 5   | Nov. 12| 2045 | 1   | 34-11N | 137-53E | -      | -       | R        | -     |
| 6   | Nov. 13| 0755 | 1   | 34-04N | 137-50E | KATE   | 210    | P        | 1000  |
| 7   | Nov. 13| 1030 | 6   | 34-09N | 137-50E | Bombers | 210    | P        | 1200  |
| 8   | Nov. 13| 2305 | 1   | 34-02N | 137-14E | -      | -       | R        | -     |
| 9   | Nov. 14| 0044 | 2   | 34-00N | 137-16E | -      | -       | R        | -     |
| 10  | Nov. 14| 0156 | 1   | 34-00N | 137-18E | -      | -       | R        | -     |
| 11  | Nov. 14| 0316 | 1   | 34-02N | 137-22E | -      | -       | R        | -     |
| 12  | Nov. 17| 1352 | 1   | 34-04N | 137-03E | Bomber | 310    | P        | 1000  |
| 13  | Nov. 19| 0909 | 2   | 34-10N | 136-49E | DAVE   | 180    | P        | 1500  |
| 14  | Nov. 19| 0925 | 1   | 34-10N | 136-50E | IDA    | 270    | P        | 300   |
| 15  | Nov. 19| 1055 | 1   | 34-10N | 135-52E | BETTY  | 290    | P        | 1000  |
| 16  | Nov. 21| 0925 | 1   | 33-36N | 136-53E | NAVIS  | 180    | P        | 1500  |
| 17  | Nov. 23| 1430 | 1   | 33-25N | 136-16E | NAVIS  | 310    | P        | 3000  |
| 18  | Dec. 6| 1225 | 1   | 34-10N | 149-10E | 4-engine | 270    | SD       | 2000  |
|     |       |      |     |       |         | bomber |         |           |       |

(15)

— page 36 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) Torpedo Attack No. ONE, Patrol No. ONE.
Time: 0429(K) Date: Nov. 7th. Lat. 34°14'N Long. 137°15'E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
Description:
One AK and One AO in convoy.
Two PC boat escorts. Contact made by radar at 13,700 yards. Visibility clear.

Ships Sunk:
None.

Ships Damaged or Friendly Sunk:
None.

Target Draft 20' Course 215 Speed 8.5 Range 3150
OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 10 Course 315 Depth: Surface Angle (zero)
FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Type Attack:
Radar contact at night at 13,700 yards. Gained position for a night surface radar attack, or sea force (4) was such as to preclude a successful radar depth attack. After target was sighted at 5500 yards, TBT bearings, and radar ranges were used. Fired 4 torpedoes at first ship, depth set at 15 feet. Gyro angles were error due to control error as T.D.C. was set on "Position Keeper" instead of "Position Keeper and Angle Solver."

(16)

— page 37 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

| Attack #1 | Tubes Fired | Track Angle | Gyro Angle | Depth Set | Power | Hit or Miss | Erratic | Mark Torpedo | Serial No. | Mark Exploder | Serial No. | Actuation Set | Actuation Actual | Mark Warhead | Serial No. | Explosive | Piring Interval | Type Spread | Sea conditions | Overhaul Activity |
||||||-------| #1      | 69P         | 11          | 15         | -         | -     | 72P         | 8          | 15         | 15         | 18         | 18         | 53618         | 4-Mod 2       | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           |
| #2      |             |             |             |            |       | 53580       | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 53596         | 4-Mod 2       | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           |
| #3      |             |             |             |            |       | 53390       | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 53596         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #4      |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #5      |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #6      |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #7      |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #8      |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #9      |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #10     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #11     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #12     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #13     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #14     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #15     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #16     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #17     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #18     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |
| #19     |             |             |             |            |       | 4-Mod 2     | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 18         | 4-Mod 2       | -           |

— page 38 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) Torpedo Attack No. TWO, Patrol No. ONE.
Time: 0437(K) Date: Nov. 7th. Lat. 34°14'N Long. 137°15'E.

Description:
Same target group as attack number one.

Ships Sunk:
None.

Ships Damaged:
One, similar to the KYOKKO MARU of 6783 tons.

Damaged Determined by:
An explosion was heard on time for the first shot, and a large amount of black smoke came out of the stack. Very doubtful that he could see the torpedo wake and he changed course to head for beach.

Target Draft 20' Course 215 Speed 8.5 Range 3400

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 2 Course 160 Depth: Surface Angle (zero)

FIRST CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Type Attack:
After firing forward, swung left for a stern shot. After it was determined that the bow shots had missed, fired 2 stern tubes. T.D.C. was still set on "Position Keeper", but gyros were only in error by one degree.

(18)

— page 40 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. DACE (SS247) Torpedo Attack No. THREE, Patrol No. ONE.

Time: 0505(K) Date: Nov. 7th(1CT) Lat. 34°12.5'N Long.137°14'E.

Description:
One A0 with two PC type escorts. Contact by sighting from the bridge at 3500 yards.

Ships Sunk:
None.

Ships Damaged:
None.

Target Draft 20' Course 165 Speed 9.5 Range 2400

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 12 Course 280 Depth: Surface Angle (zero)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack:
This target was aft of first target group and was sighted from the bridge. Used a snap set-up on T.D.C. and fired three torpedoes from the bow tubes set at 10 feet. T.D.C. was set on "Position Keeper and Angle Solver", control error having been found shortly after the first firing.

(20)

— page 41 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

Attack #3

Tubes Fired #1 #5 #6
Track Angle 81P 81P 81P
Gyro Angle 344 343 342
Depth Set 10 10 10
Power -- -- -- Hit or Miss Miss Miss
Erratic No No No
Mark Torpedo 18 18 18
Serial No. 53459 53565 53491
Mark Exploder 4-Mod 2 4-Mod 2 4-Mod 2
Serial No. -- -- -- Action Set Contact Contact Contact
Action Actual -- -- -- Mark Warhead 16 18 18
Serial No. -- -- -- Explosive TPX TPX TPX
Firing Interval 10 sec. 15 sec.
Type Spread 1° Longitudinal
Sea Conditions 4 4 4
Overhaul Activity - BUSHNELL -

(21)

— page 42 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(1) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) Torpedo Attack No. FOUR, Patrol No. ONE.
Time: 2158(K) Date: Nov. 11th. Lat. 33°29.5'N Long. 136°43.5'E.

Description:
One DD.
Contact made by sighting at 11,000 yards.

Ships Sunk:
None.

Ships Damaged:
None.

Target Draft 6'
Course 155
Speed 23.5
Range 5600

OUR SHIP DATA
Speed 19
Course 155
Depth: Surface
Angle (zero)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack:
Target sighted in brilliant moonlight by officer of the deck. Turned stern toward target and started tracking by radar. Target sighted us and target speed started increasing rapidly. With target bearing 180°, angle on bow 240°, fire three torpedoes, low power, depth set on 6 feet, one to hit and the other two one half degree divergent spread right and left.

(22)

— page 43 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

| Attack # | Tubes Fired | Track Angle | Gyro Angle | Depth Set | Power | Hit or Miss | Erratic | Mark Torpedo | Serial No. | Mark Exploder | Serial No. | Actuation Set | Actuation Actual | Mark Warhead | Serial No. | Explosive | Firing Interval | Type Spread | Sea Conditions | Overhaul Activity |
||||||-------| #7      | 28          | 6           | 183.5       | 6         | Low   | Miss        | No         | 14-Mod 3A   | 39815       | 6-Mod 1      | 18036       | Contact     | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           |
| #9      | 28          | 6           | 184.5       | 6         | Low   | Miss        | No         | 14-Mod 3A   | 39464       | 6-Mod 1      | 19514       | Contact     | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           |
| #10     | 0           | 6           | 179        | 6         | Low   | Miss        | No         | 14-Mod 3A   | 39457       | 6-Mod 1      | 12119       | Contact     | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           | -           |

— page 44 —
1. U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(I) MINES
None.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

The principal anti-submarine measure seems to be to keep the shipping very close to the beach protected by a screen of patrol boats equipped with sensitive sound gear. The boats lie-to and detect a submarine's presence by either sonic or super sonic listening gear or both. The boats are numerous and as the sound conditions encountered were good, we were detected whenever trying to close the beach.

Only one suitable contact was made more than 10 miles off the beach while in the area.

While we were using the SD radar during bright moonlight nights we were kept down most of one night by planes being attracted. The equipment was used for 5 seconds and off for 43 seconds.

The evasion tactics used were to try to avoid the patrols, and for depth charging to go to 275-300 feet and run silently. The bow and stern planes in power are by far the noiseless equipment which is normally running.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE. (Engineering and Electrical)

1. Upon surfacing after a period of deep submergence the port reduction gear sump was found to be contaminated with salt water. This entered the sump through loose flanged joints in the piping and through the packing gland of the attached pump. This oil was removed, the system flushed out with clean oil and new oil used. No further contamination was experienced.

2. The auxiliary engine overheated under heavy loads due to poor exhaust valve timing. This was remedied by replacing the shims (N9779-15 and 26) which had been removed by the Winton representative prior to commissioning. New type valve caps were not installed.

3. The Briggs lubricating oil clarifier elements showed marked deterioration after 300 hours of use. The filter from the elements clogged the purgator strainers.

— page 45 —
1. Major defects and damage. (Engineering and Electrical) Cont'd.

4. Wipe the crankpin bearing of #9 unit, #2 main engine which caused severe scoring of the journal. The journal was ground by the SPERRY and a 5/32" undersize bearing fitted. The engine has run satisfactorily at all loads since the repair. The reason for the casualty cannot be determined.

5. The wrist pin roller bearing of #8 unit, #3 main engine failed causing the following: (1) cracked liner; (2) wiped connecting rod bearing; (3) scoring of the piston. All parts were renewed and the engine performed satisfactorily.

6. The reverse current relay contactor lever (Culter Hammer Stock No. 624-263) in the stern plan control panel has broken several times. In the manufacture of this piece the punch which bends it apparently cuts too deeply and weakens it.

7. The bow plane tilting circuit ground several times and blew fuses about six times. It was finally found that in the original installation the wiring did not follow the plan. The jumper which should have been from terminal #10 to terminal #100 was from #10 to the blank. This is the bow-tilting and rigging master control E.B. Plan #2061-97. This was corrected and it has since been satisfactory.

(L) RADIO

Prior to November 10th, reception on HAIKU FOX was unreliable due to weak signal and interference. PLANT FOX was used to copy skeds.

Since November 10th, KAIKU FOX reception was as follows:

| FREQ. | TIDE (CGT) | SIG. STRENGTH | COMMENTS |
|-------||||
| 16.68 | 0830-1600  | 0-1           | Heavy interference, high noise level. |
| 16.68 | 1600-2000  | 1-2           | Reception poor. |
| 4525  | 0830-2000  | 2-3           | Rising and falling signal - Local interference from Jap stations. |
| 9090  | 0830-1100  | 3-4           | Good signal, slight interference. |

(25)

— page 46 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

| TIME (GMT) | SIGN. STRENGTH | COMMENTS |
||||
| 9090      | 1100-1230      | 2-3     | Marked increase in interference from Jap stations, appears to be deliberate blocking, starting at beginning of 1100 sked and decreases at end of sked. Good signal, minimum of interference. |
| 9090      | 1230-2000      | 3-5     | Perfect signal. |

December 6th: At 1045 GMT, we gave NPM a preliminary call on 8470 Kcs. and received a signal to go ahead, his signal strength was S-2. We transmitted our message (Reference NR. 616145) and he replied the interference was strength 5. At 1130 GMT, we shifted to 4235 Kcs. Received NPM's signal to go ahead and again transmitted the message and he again replied that the interference was strength 5.

At time of transmission, we were 500--700 miles from the Empire.

Message "HOW" sent on 21st or 22nd November missed.

(RADAR)
No trouble with either radar was experienced. One tube, No. 813, was replaced in the SJ.

SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS
The JP sound gear was used frequently to check the quietness of this vessel and was valuable in correcting small vibrations and air bubbles.

The sound conditions throughout the area were about the same and were very good to excellent. Propellors were heard consistently at approximately 10,000 yards.

Neither the JP or the JK showed a marked superiority over the other. The JP was effected more than the JK by the local boat noises.

DENSITY LAYERS
The density layers experienced were about the same throughout the area and not limited to any particular sector.

— page 47 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(0) DENSITY LAYERS (cont'd)
Frequently a negative gradient of 20 to 40 in 30 or 40 feet was experienced between 230 and 300 feet. The frequency of these gradients decreased as the air temperature during this time of the year cooled the surface water. A negative gradient was not observed above 300 feet after any prolonged force 4 sea with swells. A BT card to 300 feet was taken daily while in the area.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY
The health, food, and habitability were very good. No disease other than minor colds was experienced. The food was well prepared and the variety was satisfactory. A Thanksgiving dinner of all usual items was served.

(Q) PERSONNEL
The personnel, both officer and enlisted, performed in an excellent manner. Nothing more could be asked of them. The outstanding ability, energy, and loyalty to duty, of the Executive Officer, Lieut. Comdr. W.G. HOLMAN, USN., is appreciated and worthy of mention.

(R) MILES STEAMED - Fuel Used
Pearl to Midway 1245 miles 14,170 gals.
Midway to Area 2438 miles 26,696 gals.
In area (Surface) 3104 miles 27,429 gals.
In area (Submerged) 871 miles 27,101 gals.
Area to Midway 2668 miles

(S) DURATION
Days enroute to area 9
Days in area 30
Days enroute to Midway 8
Days submerged 30

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel Factor
12 9,396 gals. 10 days 10 days

The provisions of the operation order was the limiting factor of this patrol.

(27)

— page 48 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

(U) REMARKS
The courses steered during the nights while the moon was up were practically dictated by the moon streak. We were trimmed down the night the destroyer sighted us at 11,000 yards. Gray camouflage would probably be an aid.
The bow and stern planes frequently failed electrically and will be throughly checked during refit.

— page 49 —
141/AL3-5
Serial 0100
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
12 December, 1943.

FIRST INDICATE:
DACE report of First Patrol, file SS247/
AL2-2 dated 11 Dec., 1943.

From: The Commander Submarine Division 141.
To: The Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Via: The Commander Submarine Force, Subordinate Command,
Submarine Base, Navy Number 1504.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

1. Forwarded, The first patrol of DACE was of fifty-three (53) days duration, including three (3) days in HIDAY, making engine repairs.

2. ATTACKS
   The first attack resulted in misses due to a control error.
   The second attack resulted in one hit in an A.K. Damage inflicted was not observed.
   The third attack, using a "snap set-up" on the T.D.C. resulted in misses.
   The fourth attack, using 6 foot depth setting, "down the throat" of a DD, failed to produce a hit.

3. DACE encountered determined opposition from patrol vessels and aircraft. The enemy seems to have been protecting his shipping in this area in a very energetic and successful manner.

4. The ship returned in good material condition and re- fit will be conducted by BUSHILL in the normal period.

LERO L. PACE.

— page 50 —
A16-3
Serial 0177.
CO.TIDENTITAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. DACE Conf. Ltr.
SS247/A12-2 of 11 Dec. 1943.

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

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of First War Patrol.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of Commander
   Submarine Division 141.

2. This first patrol, while not particularly product-
   ive, gave the DACE some valuable training and her future patrols
   should be more effective from the experience gained.

3. The Commanding Officer, officers, and crew of the
   DACE are congratulated upon the damage inflicted on the enemy.

J. B. LONGSTAFF.

Copy to:
Consubdiv 141
CO, USS DACE

— page 51 —
1 0856
Serial 01950
CONFIDENTIAL
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
DACE Report of
First War Patrol.

COMMUSBAC PATROL REPORT NO. 332
U.S.S. DACE - FIRST WAR PATROL.

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS332) - Report of First War Patrol.
(20 October to 11 December 1943).

1. The DACE's first war patrol was conducted in one of the Empire areas.

2. Although the area coverage was good the DACE had but five contacts worthy of torpedoes. Four attacks were made but only one resulted in damage to the enemy. Excessive ranges undoubtedly caused some of the misses. The experience gained on this patrol will undoubtedly prove valuable on the DACE's next war patrol.

3. This patrol is not considered successful for Combat Insignia Award.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for inflicting the following damage upon the enemy:

DACE
1 - Frightner (KYOKKO M.RU class) - 6,783 tons.

J. H. BROWN, Jr.,
Acting.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (5) Comuswospac (1)
CNO (5) Comusbuswospac (2)
Cinepac (6) CTF 72 (2)
Intel. Cen. Pac. Conservpac (1)
Ocean Areas (1) Consubspac (20)
Conservpac SUB.D, MI (2)
(Adv.Raso Plan,Unit) (1) ConsubspacSubordcon (3)
Cinclant (2) All Squadron and Div. E. L. HYNES, II,
Comusblent (8) Commonders,Subspace (2) Flag Secretary.
S/M School, NL (2) All Submarines,Subspace (1)
Comospac 63096 (2) Combustrainpac (2)

— page 52 —
1. Enclosures (1), (2), (3) - Report of Second War Patrol.

Enclosure 1:
(A) Subject report.
(B) Track Charts of Patrol in area. (CTF-72 only)
(C) Statical Summary. (CTF-72 only)

1. Enclosures (1), (2), and (3), covering the second war patrol of this vessel conducted in the area between the BISMARCK, RCHIPPE, and the CLARLOTINE ISLANDS between 1570 to 1400 East during the period January 7, 1944 to 25 FEB 1944 are forwarded herewith.

B.D. CLAGGETT.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C

BY: O.C. 0288C DATE: 5/25/72

DECLASSIFIED

— page 54 —
1600 M Sighted single motor land plane bearing 2600T., distance six miles. Submerged to avoid detection.

: 1703 M Surfaced.

: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 23°-33' N Long. 171°-10' E MILES: 285 FUEL: 3323 gal.

: January 12

: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 21°-26' N Long. 166°-28' E MILES: 306 FUEL: 3695 gal.

: January 13

: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 18°-00' N Long. 162°-52' E MILES: 299 FUEL: 4027 gal.

: January 14

: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 14°-07' N Long. 159°-55' E MILES: 311 FUEL: 3342 gal.

: January 15

: 0000 Commenced operating under command of ComTaskFor 72.

: 0730 L Changed course to 065°

: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 10°-07' N Long. 157°-05' E MILES: 257 FUEL: 3614 gal.

: January 16

: 0400 L Changed course to 245°

Decided to resume course and proceed to area as we are already behind schedule.

-2- Enclosure (A).

— page 55 —
0921 L
Plane on S.D. distance 16 miles--closed to 13 miles so submerged to avoid detection. Did not sight plane. Took time submerged to replace torpedo in #2 tube with one from racks. The one in the tube had a leak in the starting piston.

1117 L
Surfaced.
0000
POSIT: Lat. 09°-41' N
MILES: 284
Long. 158°-51' E
FUEL: 3227 gal.

January 17
Proceeding to area.
1530
Set clocks back one hour. All time now "KING".
0000
POSIT: Lat. 07°-27' N
MILES: 327
Long. 156°-35' E
FUEL: 3959 gal.

January 18
Proceeding to area.
Have secured S.D. on orders of ComTaskFor 72. An running S.J. continuously.
Note: See remarks for use of S.J. as an aircraft detector.

0817
Picked up plane on S.J., range 6,500 yards, bearing 280°T. Submerged without sighting planes. Range closed to 5,000 yards as S.J. went under. Do not believe he sighted us as it was overcast.

0918
Surfaced.
1400
Entered assigned area. Commenced surface petrol at two engine speed as per instructions of ComTaskFor 72.

0000
POSIT: Lat. 04°-16' N
MILES: 297
Long. 153°-20' E
FUEL: 2925 gal.

January 19
Proceeding area.

-3-
Enclosure (A).

— page 56 —
1045
Proceeding down track of 25 knot target reported by plane and ComTaskFor 72.

0000
POSIT: Lat. 04-28' N
MILES: 274
Long. 1490-09' E
FUEL: 4128 gal.

January 20
Patrolling area at two engine speed.

0614
Submerged for trim.

0704
Surfaced.

1440
Sighted life boat, floating oil drums and wreckage.

0000
POSIT: Lat. 04-10' N
MILES: 281
Long. 1500-42' E
FUEL: 2928 gal.

January 21
Patrolling area.

0000
POSIT: Lat. 05-13' N
MILES: 292
Long. 1490-35' E
FUEL: 3090 gal.

January 22
Patrolling area.

0555
Submerged for trim.

0702
Surfaced.

0000
POSIT: Lat. 04-31' N
MILES: 273
Long. 1490-10' E
FUEL: 3223 gal.

January 23
Patrolling area.

1142
S.J. contact--16,000 yards, bearing 180°T. Sighted six (6) planes flying in formation on a northerly course, altitude 10 to 12 thousand feet. Submerged when range had decreased to 13,000 yards.

-4-
Enclosure (A).

— page 57 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.
January 23 (Cont'd)
1245 Surfaced.
2211 Radar contact on PULOSUK Island, bearing 037°T., range 30,000 yards.
0000 POSIT: Lat. 060-04' N Long. 150°-38'-30" E MILES: 288 FUEL: 3096 gal.
January 24
Patrolling area west of MANILA REFF for PALAU-TRUK traffic.
2015 Received ComTaskFor 72 serial and proceeded West.
0000 POSIT: Lat. 060-47' N Long. 148°-56' E MILES: 296 FUEL: 3044 gal.
January 25
Proceeding to area.
0605 Submerged for trim.
0700 Surfaced.
2000 Proceeding South
0000 POSIT: Lat. 060-57'N Long. 147°-53' E MILES: 297 FUEL: 2909
January 26
1454 S.J. contact--18,000 yards, opened to 20,000 yards. Planes not sighted.
'1830 Commenced station patrol across expected track.

-5- Enclosure (A).

— page 58 —
2045
S.J. contact bearing 25LT., range 22,000 yards.
Changed course to 080T., end commenced tracking
keeping him astern and allowing him to close.

When range closed to 18,000 yards--a second and
smaller target appeared about 2,000 yards closer.
Continued tracking to determine course and speed.
The target is zigging radically' and we are tracking
to try to determine his zig plan. After two hours
tracking it is apparent that he has no set plan, but
is zig zagging on various courses from 0150T. to
0900T. with no definite length of zigs that we can
determine. We have been tracking him at a range of
16,000 yards, and have gotten a definite speed of
15 knots. Also have discovered that there is an-
other escort about 2,200 yards astern. Both escorts
seem to be patrolling across track.

2350
Have decided that we have as much information as we
can get on this fellow so turned right to get out on
his starboard bow about 6,000 yards from track, and
as soon as he comes back to the easterly leg will
proceed in for the attack. The night is dark with
scattered rain squalls; it would be convenient if we
could get into one of them. We will go in at high
speed keeping a small silhouette to the leading escort;
will let him pass ahead and fire six torpedoes at the
target. On the way out will try to get a shot off at
the after escort if he presents a good track and is of
sufficient size.

2355
Light rain squall set in--covering us, so started
in for the attack; rain is moving toward target's
track rapidly, hope it keeps us covered so we will
have the advantage of visibility. With range of
8,000 yards can see the target sufficiently for T.B.T.
bearings. He looks long and low. Range to target
now 5,000 yards; near escort 3,800 yards. Escort un-
fortunately is 1,200 yards this side of target; they
are nearly in line therefore slowed to allow escort
to pass ahead. With the escort on this side will
have to fire at greater range than planned. When

-6- Enclosure (A).

— page 59 —
0007 - Escort had crossed ahead, range 2,700 yards proceeded to attack and at

0009 - 30 - All hands heard a violent explosion followed by another 10 seconds later. Prior to hearing each explosion the Executive Officer observed the radar screen jump and the pip seemed to expand and then return to normal. No flash was seen on the target which was partially obscured by the rain squall and our exhaust; he is bearing 180° relative and we are retiring at full speed. Soon after this explosion saw two red rockets high above target. Several minutes later three more explosions were heard which could either have been end of run of the torpedoes or explosions on the target.

As we retired, tried to get set up to fire on after escort, but would have had to accept a twenty track so did not fire. The leading escort was observed to be a large destroyer of about 1500 tons. The after escort was not distinct enough to definitely determine, but it appeared to be another large destroyer.

After the explosions the after escort turned toward us, range 3200 yards which held constant for so long that v.s thought he saw us, but range began to open slowly until it was 5,200 yards when it remained constant again. Range to target at this time--12,000 yards and he seems to be continuing on northerly course. Continued opening until range on escort was 12,000 yards, and then turned north to track target whose range was 26,000 yards. Heard what appeared to be target transmitter on 500 k.c.

Continued tracking target at full speed on four engines--17.5 knots, until 0241 L. Target speed

-7- Enclosure (A).

— page 60 —
0000
POSIT: Lat. 05°-03' N
MILES: 300
Long. 147°-40' E
FUEL: 3113 gal.

January 27
0730
Submerged conducting a periscope patrol during
forenoon watch to give all hands a rest.

1300
Surfaced and continued surface patrol.

2230
Commenced station patrol

0000
POSIT: Lat. 02°-17' N
MILES: 257
Long. 149°-00' E
FUEL: 2929 gal.

January 28

-8-

— page 61 —
0530 Discontinued station patrol
: 2230 Commenced station patrol
: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 01°-06' N Long. 148°-48' E
: 0606 Submerged for trim.
: 0652 Surfaced.
: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 01°-35' N Long. 151°-10' E
: 1212 MILES: 311 FUEL: 3138 gal.

January 30
Enroute TULAGI.
1108 Sighted Navisor P.E.Y. flying boat, altitude 2000 feet, range 6 miles. Submerged to avoid detection.
1212 Surfaced.
0000 POSIT: Lat. 00°-28' N Long. 151°-38' E
: 1212 MILES: 319 FUEL: 3642 gal.

January 31
Enroute TULAGI.
0550 Sighted BLACKFISH.
0608 Picked up BLACKFISH on radar at 15,500 yards.
Exchanged signals.

-9- Enclosure (A).

— page 62 —
0856
Sighted single engine plane--type unknown. South-
erly course, range 6 miles. Submerged to avoid
detection.

: 0941
Surfaced.

: 1250
Sighted A.BACORE. Exchanged signals and information.

: 0000
POSIT: Lat. 01°-00' S Long. 154°-43' E
MILES: 326 FUEL: 3844 gal.

: February 1
Enroute TULAGI.

: 0714
Sighted aircraft. Course easterly, range 6 miles.
Submerged to avoid detection.

: 0810
Surfaced.

: 1440
Plane contact on S.J., range 14,750 yards, bearing
2220T. Sighted by O.O.D., altitude 5,000 feet,
course 070°. Submerged to avoid detection.

: 1543
Surfaced.

: 1614
Sighted unidentified plane, range 4 miles, course
southerly. Submerged.

: 1641
Surfaced.

: 0000
POSIT: Lat. 05°-05' S Long. 156°-33' E
MILES: 279 FUEL: 3367 gal.

: February 2
Enroute TULAGI.

: 0130
Picked up MALAITA Island on S.J. radar--35 miles.

: 0429
Picked up escort on radar, range 15,000 yards.

: 0440
Exchanged signals with escort. Proceeding to
TULAGI in company with CONSTANT--AM 86.

-10- Enclosure (A)

— page 63 —
1201
Moored alongside Y.O. 641, TULAGI Harbor. 3,000 gallons of fuel on board.

: 1230
Commenced fueling--10,000 gallons per hour. Repairing radar and 2 M.C.

: 2200
Fueling completed. Received 88,350 gallons of fuel. 1500 gallons of lub. oil from Y.O. 641. Awaiting orders.

: 0000
POSIT: Lat. 07°-29' S Long. 159°-38' E MILES: 140 FUEL: 1623 gal.

: 0215
Received ComTaskFor 72 message. With best of luck will be 18 hours late reaching position ordered, so have decided to wait in TULAGI until radar work is completed and binoculars received.

: 0800
Binoculars received on board.

: 0850
Radar work completed.

: 0900
Underway escorted by CONSTANT.

: 1600
Passed point WHITE.

: 1725
Released escort. Made trim dive.

: 1755
Surfaced.

: At TULAGI
MILES: 213 FUEL: 2470 gal.

: February 4
Enroute area.

: 0540
Struck large, submerged log. No apparent damage to tubes or screws.

: 0654
Possible S.J. contact on flight of planes, bearing 0520T., range 36,000 yards moving fast. Lost contact after seven minutes.

-11- Enclosure (A).

— page 64 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS24-7) - Report of Second War Patrol.
:  February 4 (Cont'd)
:  0855
:  Sighted DAVE-type plane bearing 3540T., course
:  easterly, distance 5 miles. Submerged to avoid
:  detection.
:  0927.  Surfaced.
:  1315  Received ComTaskFor 72 serial
:  1347  Changed course to proceed to new area.
:  0000  POSIT:  Lat. 090-03' S  Long. 1590-27' E
:  MILES:  344  FUEL:  4763 gal.
:  February 5
:  Proceeding to area.
:  1237  Sighted "BETTY" bearing 1050T., range 7 miles.
:  Submerged.
:  1304  Surfaced.
:  1429  S.J. plane contact--11,000 yards coming in from
:  rain squall ahead. Submerged. Range 6,200 yards
:  when S.J. went under, bearing 0150T.
:  1455  Surfaced.
:  2000  Arrived new station. Commenced station patrol.
:  0000  POSIT:  Lat. 030-00' S  Long. 1560-33' E
:  MILES:  291  FUEL: 3641 gal.
:  February 6
:  Patrolling on station.
:  0450  Unidentified S.J. contact, range 29,500 yards,
:  bearing 2570T. Bearing changing very rapidly--
:  probably large plane. Lost contact at 0454.
:  1100  Sighted "BETTY"--range 7 miles, course 2100T.
:  Submerged.
:  1138  Surfaced.
:  -12-  Enclosure (A)

— page 66 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.

February 10

Patrolling in area.

0700    Received CERo's contact report.  Proceeding to southern boundry of area on their track.

0930    Received serial  which I interperet to mean I can leave area so I'm proceeding south.

1120    Six (6) "NELLIES" came out of a heavy cloud directly overhead, altitude 5,000 feet, course east. Made very quick dive.

1200    Surfaced.

1815    Received CERo's message describing convoy as too small so reversed course to clear PETO's area and proceeded to HELENA SHOAL.

0000    POSIT:  Lat. 04-47' N   Long. 148-40' E
    TILES:  283    FUEL:  3224 gal.

February 11

Proceeding to north of area.

0015    Radar contact--range 13,000 yards, bearing 2480T.  Commenced tracking and established mean course as 0100T, zig zagging about 300 each side of base course, speed 8 knots.  Convoy was tracked and observed for three hours in bright moonlight.  There are five ships in the convoy--all small; two are escorts and the others are similar to ships described by CERo and PETO.  After three hours tracking and observing decided that this was same convoy, but it is hard to reconcile the discrepancy in positions.  The escort is so small that we cannot get him on radar at a range of less than 14,000 yards.  Other ships do not appear any larger but have higher masts.

0315    Discontinued tracking.  Passed astern of contact and proceeded toward HELENE SHOALS.

-14-    Enclosure (A).

— page 67 —
0330 Lost contact, range 23,000 yards, bearing 3410T.
: 0530 Radar contact, bearing 0320T., range 25,000 yards. Commenced tracking and closing. Discovered it to be the sam convoy. They have apparently changed course to pass west of HELENE SHOALS. Maintained contact with them for over an hour, and observed them through binoculars and high periscope at range of 18,000 yards in full daylight. They all proved to be very small. One of the patrolling escorts was observed broadside to. His lines were similar to a destroyer but was smaller. The other ships appeared to be about the same size.
: 0637 Submerged to allow them to open out. At 60 feet with seven feet of periscope exposed could not see any masts.
: 0738 Surfaced and resumed course to point north of HELENE SHOALS.
: 1400 Arrived position Northwest of HELENE SHOALS and commenced patrolling.
: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 04-24' N Long. 1490-09' E MILES: 271 FUEL: 3005 gal.

February 12

Patrolling Northwest of HELENE SHOALS.

: 0617 Submerged for trim.
: 0641 Surfaced.
: 1300 Proceeding to Northeast of HELENE SHOALS.
: 0000 POSIT: Lat. 05-51' N Long. 1480-28' E MILES: 263 FUEL: 2636 gal.

-15- Enclosure (A).

— page 68 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.

February 13

Patrolling Northeast of HELENE SHOALS.

0600 Proceeding to new area

1152 Changed course to 290°T. to try to intercept CERO convoy.

1503 Discontinued search in order to reach area on time.

0000 POST: Lat. 05°-32' N Long. 149°-54' E
MILES: 294 FUEL: 3670 gal.

February 14

0015 Entered new area and commenced patrol.

0000 POST: Lat. 04°-57' N Long. 151°-43' E
MILES: 294 FUEL: 3195 gal.

February 15

Patrolling on station.

0000 POST: Lat. 03°-56' N Long. 152°-05' E
MILES: 303 FUEL: 3260 gal.

February 16

Patrolling on station.

0553 Made trim dive.

0629 Surfaced.

0713 Sighted "NELLIES" bearing 120°T., distance 6 miles, elevation 10,000 feet, course 180°T. Submerged to avoid detection.

0757 Surfaced.

-16- Enclosure (A).

— page 69 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.

February 16 (Cont'd)

2045    Changed course to 320°T. proceeding to new area on three engines

0000    POSIT:  Lat. 04°-01' N  Long. 152°-28' E
    MILES:  295    FUEL:  3630 gal.

February 17

Proceeding to new station.

0800    Entered new area West of TRUK.

1230    Commenced patrol West of PULUSUK Island on two engines.

0000    POSIT:  Lat. 04°-24' N  Long. 151°-47' E
    MILES:  361    FUEL:  5299 gal.

February 18

Patrolling West of PULUSUK.

0404    S.J. contact on plane bearing 321°T. Maintained contact for 4 minutes at ranges varying from 7,600 to 16,500 yards. Plane not sighted.

Several times while in this area radar interference was noted. The bearings placed the source Northeast of PULU'UAT Island. It was timed at 12 r.p.m. Believed to be a SUBPAC submarine.

1123    Sighted four motor plane bearing 140°T., course 320°T., S.J. range 16,000 yards. Submerged.

1200    Surfaced.

1300    During the afternoon watch the entire sky to the East was covered with a dark haze which we hope is coming from TRUK. Hope this isn't wishful thinking.

-17-    Enclosure (A).

— page 70 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.
February 18 (Cont'd)
1415 Radar interference to Northeast.
0000 POSIT: Lat. 07°-03' N Long. 150°-12' E
MILES: 296 FUEL: 3280 gal.
February 19
0000 Received serial shifting area. Proceeding
South to new area along RABAUL-TRUK lane enroute.
0000 POSIT: Lat. 07°-03' N Long. 150°-12' E
MILES: 317 FUEL: 3335 gal.
February 20
Proceeding to new area.
1200 Entered new area.
0000 POSIT: Lat. 03°-05' N Long. 148°-28' E
MILES: 315 FUEL: 3020 gal.
February 21
Patrolling along PALAU traffic route.
0618 Trim dive.
0720 Surfaced.
1730 Commenced station patrol
0000 POSIT: Lat. 01°-41' N Long. 144°-52' E
MILES: 302 FUEL: 3468 gal.
February 22
Station patrol
0300 Discontinued station patrol;

-18- Enclosure (A).

— page 71 —
U.S.S. DICE (SS247) - Report of Second War Petrol.

February 22 (Cont'd)

0444 Radar interference--260°T.

0540 Radar contact 003°T. Believed to be PERMIT.

Commenced tracking.

0556 Lost contact. Appear to have dived so signaled him on "CC", but got no reply.

0646 Sighted yellow smoke bomb.

Sent challenge on sound, but still no reply.

Two more smoke bombs. We replied with sound and also fired two smoke bombs.

0715 PERMIT surfaced.

Exchanged information with PERMIT. He said he had covered courses to South and was giving up search. We proceeded back along track.

1200 Commenced patrolling.

1600 Discontinued station patrol.

2000 Sent message to ComTaskFor 72 giving him dope on fuel.

2200 proceeding to Southeast corner of area in preparation to departing.

2400 Received message directing return to MILNE BAY.

0000 POSIT: Let. 010-21' N Long. 146°-18' E MILES: 360 FUEL: 4992 gal.

-19- Enclosure (L).

— page 72 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.
February 23

Enroute MILNE BAY.
1128
2045
0000
February 24

Enroute MILNE BAY.
0056
Radar contact bearing 3540T., range 12,000 yards.
Commenced tracking. He is on a converging course overtaking us. We have radar interference so believe it is DARTER.
0125
Exchanged recognition signals and calls with DARTER.
0715
Radar contact bearing 290T., range 11,000 yards. Closed to see if it is our escort. We have been searching for him in heavy rain for past hour.
0730
Sighted our escort--the WELLS (DD628) with DARTER.
1400
140

— page 73 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second Patrol Report.
February 25

Enroute MILNE BAY.
0910 ..
Sighted escort (PG 1124) bearing 180°T., distance
10 miles.

-21- Enclosure (L).

— page 77 —
4. LUCKY (SS-24) - Report of Second War Patrol

Type: Intact, full, full hull, full torpedo, full range, full depth, full speed, full endurance, full fuel, full fuel oil, full oil

— page 79 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA:

TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM

U.S.S. DACE
Torpedo Attack No. ONE. Patrol No. SECOND.

Time: 0007 L
Date: January 27
Lat. 02°-17' N
Long. 149°-02'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Tanker escorted by two (2) large DD's--one ahead and one astern.

Ship(s) sunk: None.

Ship(s) damaged or probably sunk: One (1) 10,000 ton Tanker.

Damage determined by: Two timed explosions and observation on radar.

Target draft: 12 feet
Course: 0950T.
Speed: 15.5

Range: 3100 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 17
Course: 3300T.
Depth: Surface
Angle 0 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack:

Night surface attack. Target was picked up by radar at 23,000 yards and tracked for three hours. The target was making frequent and radical zigs on base course 0550T. The escorts, two large DD's were stationed 2,000 yards ahead and 2,500 yards astern. Fired six torpedoes using a standard spread card, two degrees divergent spread.

-27-
Enclosure (A).

— page 81 —
1. MILES:
No mining or sweeping activity observed.

: 2. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS:
The only anti-submarine activities observed were two destroyer escorts with convoy and frequent air patrols over area.

Evasion Tactics: For escorts retired on surface at full speed after attack. Submerged to avoid detection by planes.

Group of small boats with two escort vessels sighted the morning of February 11 had indications of being a come out.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGES:
At 1661 engine hours #2 Main Engine started smoking. The exhaust temperatures of units #1, 2, 9 and 10 (all in the blower end) were running high than the other units. Further examination showed the cold compressions of these units to be 360#, the other units in the engine were about 450#, also below standard. These units were disassembled. #2 unit had (3) exhaust valves with erosion pits 1/4 inches deep on the seats. #1 unit had one such pitted valve and the seat was eroded between 1/64 and 1/32 inches at the same spot. #9 had slight pitting on the valves. #10 was the same as #1. All exhaust valves were renewed in these units and #1 and #10 heads were replaced. The rings were in good condition but were worn. The engine was tested and it was found that the smoking was eliminated and the temperatures brought down to the average of the engine. The engine was saved after this for emergency use only.

(L) RADIO:
It was possible to copy BELLCONNER broadcast at all times during the patrol, either on low frequency or high frequency. Difficulty was experienced during the time between 0800 L and 1100 L when a split phone watch on BELLS and the Aircraft Frequency (7785 kcs) thereby forcing us to make a choice of either BELLS or Aircraft on the high frequency.

— page 83 —
U.S.S. DICE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.

(M) RADAR: (Cont'd)

A number of radar contacts were made on flocks of birds of 3500 to 7,000 yards. The pips from these contacts were usually so sharp that positive identification was difficult.

While entering and leaving TULAGI, the SJ-a was used to assist in the navigation. Land was picked up at 80,000 yards when entering and followed out to about 112,000 yards when leaving.

Range circles were scribed on a disk of cellulose acetate and placed over the PPI screen. This was of great assistance in estimating ranges over 40,000 yards and in estimating the range of targets when first detected.

The list of radar contacts is as follows:

| Date | Maximum Range | Reliable Range | Type of Target |
|------||||
| Jan 23 | 16,800 | 16,000 | 2 formations of 3 planes each, 5,000 feet high. |
| Jan 23 | 32,000 | 27,000 | Low reef. |
| Jan 26 | 33,000 | 22,000 | 10,000 ton tanker. |
|      | 19,200 | 18,000 | Large destroyer. |
|      | 18,600 | 17,000 | Large destroyer. |
| Jan 27 | 18,500 | 18,000 | Airplanes. |
| Jan 31 | 15,500 | 14,000 | Submarine. |
| Feb 2 | 80,000 | 80,000 | Land---two 3,500 foot peaks. |
| Feb 3 | 112,000 | 100,000 | Same as above (range by plot). |
| Feb 4 | 32,000 | 32,000 | Airplane. |
| Feb 5 | 11,000 | 11,000 | Airplane. |
| Feb 11 | 28,000 | 20,000 | (3) 500 ton ships |
| Feb 18 | 16,500 | 10,000 | Airplane. |
| Feb 18 | 16,000 | 15,000 | Airplane. |
| Feb 22 | 10,000 | 9,000 | Submarine. |

(N) SOUND:

There were no targets for sound during this patrol.

-31- Enclosure (A).

— page 84 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Second War Patrol.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS:

The water in this area is notable for its lack of density layers. In all cases but one, the BT showed isothermal water to a depth of 300 feet (sometimes with a gradual reduction of temperature amounting to not more than 10° over all). On one day a definite break was found at 270 feet in the position Lat. 04°-40' N, Long. 149°-40' E. The water was isothermal to 270 feet, then a sharp 2° change between 270 and 280 feet and a gradual negative gradient from 280 to 310 feet.

A trim was secured at periscope depth with 6,000 lbs. in negative tank and on going deep this was blown to 2,000 lbs. The results were very satisfactory as no further pumping was necessary. The compression rule for this vessel since commissioning has averaged 2,000 lbs. per 100 feet.

BT cards will be forwarded to the Hydrographic Office.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY:

The health of the crew was excellent.

The food was well prepared at all times. The stop in TULAGI enabled us to obtain some fresh vegetables which were not available in Midway.

The habitability was excellent as the patrol was made on the surface.

(Q) PERSONNEL:

The state of training and morale of the crew is good. The lookouts stood both day and night watches as such and consequently got in two patrols looking during one trip. The excellent job turned in is indicated by the number of planes sighted at extreme ranges. The absence of meterial casualties is indicative of good operation by personnel.

(R) MILES STEAMED:

Midway to area
In area
Area to Brisbane

FUEL USED:

19,760 gal.
11,388 gal.
15,000 gal.

-32- Enclosure (A).

— page 87 —
FCS-18/A16-3
Serial:  017
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO, USS DACE Report
of 2nd War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN.
To: The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Second War Patrol - Comments on.

1. The second war patrol of DACE, the first for the present commanding officer, was conducted in the area north of the BISMARCKS along PALAU-RABAUL and TRUK-KAVIENG shipping routes and was of 49 days duration.

2. Two contacts were made with the enemy, only one of which was worthy of expenditure of torpedoes. The other contact was with small AKs escorted by a trawler and subchasers. A complete description of the small AKs is lacking in this report but it must be remembered that every effort should be made to destroy enemy shipping. One attack was made on the surface at night on an unloaded tanker with two escorts. Two hits were obtained resulting in unknown damage to the tanker which did not sink. Due to a speed advantage of only one (1) knot, DACE made no further attacks on this target. The firing range and torpedo run on this attack were large. The 2° diverge spread employed appears to be excessive, giving a total coverage of over 1500 feet. A 10° spread would have given a normal coverage of over 150% of target's length. Track angles were favorable but gyro angles were large. Small gyro angles should be striven for. The two timed explosions heard appear to be evidence of two torpedo hits.

3. DACE returned from patrol in very good material condition and will be given normal refit by FULTON. It is recommended that DACE be drydocked at next available opportunity.

4. It is regretted that more worthwhile targets were not contacted on this patrol.

Eliot H. Bryant

— page 89 —
1 Tanker 10,000 tons

DAMAGED
1 Tanker 10,000 tons

DISTRIBUTION
CONTINUED (Advance copies -3)
VONO (Advance copies -2)
VOPNAV (Op-23c)
COM. 1st Flt.
COM. 2nd Flt.
COM. 3rd Flt.
CONSUBS. 1st Flt.
CONSUBS. 2nd Flt.
CONSUBS. 7th Flt.
CSS-4, 6, 8, 10, 12
14, 16, 18 and 20
CSD-81, 82, 181 and 182
CTF-72 War Patrol Summary
0-in-C, S/M School, N.L. Conn (2)
Fltr. Radar Unit, Melbourne.
ALL SS TF-72 (May be taken to sea, but BURN
prior to passing 50° South).
CO USS D.CE (File)

— page 90 —
26 MAR 1944
Reg. No. 2303
R.S. No. 013753
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
USS DACE - Report of
Second War Patrol.
SS247/A16-3, serial 02
of January 7 to February 25,
1944.

From: The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.
To: The Commander in Chief, U.S. Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Second War Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

H. W. GRAF,
Chief of Staff.

— page 91 —
18 March 1946
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
WASHINGTON

REASSESSMENT OF DAMAGE BY SUBMARINES

Reference: (a) ComSubPac 1tr. PF12-10/Lll(1) of 21 February 1946.

USS DACE (SS247) 2nd War Patrol
Date of Attack: 27 January 1944
Position: Vicinity of TRUK

DACE attacked, on 27 January 1944, what was believed to be an A0 of 10000 tons (est.) and obtained two hits. Ship continued on course towards TRUK at 16 knots and chase was abandoned by DACE due to fuel expenditures. Japanese intelligence lists state that the MEIRAI MARU (tonnage unknown) sunk 140 miles toward TRUK from the scene of DACE's attack, on the same day. Since no other submarine attacks took place at that time or in that vicinity it is obvious that the NEIKAU MARU was lost as a result of the above described attack and credit assessment should be changed from DAMAGED to SUEK. Commanding Officer, Comdr. B. D. Claggett, U.S. Navy.

Copy to:
ComSubLant
SubSchool New London
CO SS-247
Op-23E
Op-414C3

— page 92 —
1/2" copy

SS247/16-3
Serial 03
U.S.S. D.CE (SS247)

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,

D.E.C.HASSELD. I-A-L

From: The Commander, Officer, U.S.S. DACE.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Division 181.
    (2) The Commander Submarine Squadron 18.
    (3) The Commander Task Force 72.
    (4) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. D.CE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
    (B) Track charts (CTF-72 only).
    (C) Plot of attacks (CTF-72 only).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the third war patrol of this vessel, including two special missions in the HOLLAND TANKER HERRH Aree, conducted in area south of PALAU, vicinity of DAVO Gulf in the Philippines, and northwest of HAMBURG. Island, during the period 16 March to 13 May 1944 is forwarded herewith.

B.D. CLAGGETT.

DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY OPNAVINST DATE 5/25/42

DECLASSIFIED

— page 93 —
25 February. Completed sound test on 26 February and commenced refit alongside the FULTON. Refit completed by FULTON and 181 Relief Crew on 11 March. The following major items were accomplished; four main engines overhauled, docked and painted in A.R.D. 9, 40MM gun installed in lieu of forward 20mm. March 12th devoted to loading. Commenced training 13 March. Completed training 15 March--no torpedoes fired.

(B) NARRATIVE:
16 March
Departed for third war patrol in accordance

CONFIDENTIAL -1-

— page 94 —
16 March (Cont'd)
with ComTaskFor-72's Operation Order #S16-44
in company with FLOUNDER. BACHE acting as
escort. Commander Submarine Division 82 in
FLOUNDER. Fired all guns prior to leaving
MILNE Bay. Made trim dives, took pictures
through periscope in preparation for special
mission.

FUEL: 1837
MILES: 120

17 March
Conducted a daylight end around and attack
on escort. Unless otherwise indicated all
times LOVE.

1007
Fire in #3 main engine air chamber. Ex-
tinguished with CO2. Put engine out of
commission and began inspecting for trouble.
Found all rings had excessive butt clear-
ances thus pumping oil into air chamber and
starting fire. Began renewing rings. This
is rather discouraging just after a refit.

Made two night end arounds and attacks,
then fell in aetern of FLOUNDER.

FUEL: 2858
MILES: 241
POSITION: 080-08' S
150-33' E

18 March
Enroute LANGEMAK Bay.

0845
Moored fueling dock LANGEMAK Bay. Topped
off on fuel. Made arrangements for shipment
of spare piston rings to next stop over.

1200
Received passengers for special missions
in accordance with ComTaskFor-72's special
orders.

1300
Main engine #4 back in commission--all rings
renewed in outboard w.nk. Bell done to the
black gang.

CONFIDENTIAL -2-

— page 95 —
1710
All the gear for special missions on board.
Departed for patrol in company with FLOUNDER
escorted by SC743.

FUEL: 1760
MILES: 248

19 March
Enroute area.
Conducting daily training dives and control problems.

0220 Escort departa, began opening FLOUNDER.

0824. Sighted unidentified plane, contact #1,
submerged to avoid detection.

0909. Surfaced.

1015 Sighted two engine bomber, plane contact #2,
submerged to avoid detection.

1055. Surfaced.

1240 Exchanged I.F.F. recognition signals with
plane. First time it has worked.

1603 Received challenge on I.F.F.--these kept
up during remainder of day and evening.
I.F.F. seems to be out of commission.

FUEL: 4003
MILES: 232

POSITION: 030-42' S
1460-19' E

20 March
Enroute area conducting training dives,
drills and control problems.

2130 Received information on night bombing restrictions.

FUEL: 3485
MILES: 375

CONFIDENTIAL

POSITION: 000-34' N
1450-08' E

-3-

— page 96 —
21 March
Enroute area conducting training dives.

1538
While surfacing after a training dive sighted an unidentified bomber coming in. Submerged immediately.

1729
Surfaced and recovered one of the small boxes. Inside the wood was a tin container that was opened and revealed small bags of hard tack. Sample was tasted, another saved for intelligence. These boxes are in good condition as if the vessel carrying them has been sunk quite recently. Message file does not show of any recent sinkings in this area. Whoever got this baby deprived a lot of Jap soldiers of a very inferior grade of crackers.

FUEL: 2435
MILES: 270
POSITION: 000-25' N
1400-31' E

22 March to 27 March
Conducting special missions.

24 March
2356
Sighted Hospital ship on easterly course, speed eight. Closed to 10,000 yards; found her propery farrak so opened out to avoid detection. This is quite disappointing as she is the first suitable target sighted since last January. Could not make out much about her due to the glare of all of the lights. From her appearances and also her pip she locked small.

FUEL: 1328
MILES: 93
POSITION: 020-33' S
1400-57' E

CONFIDENTIAL -4-

— page 97 —
26 March
Searched for convoy reported in serial 13. Covered speeds from 5 to 10 knots, courses East to hugging coast. No success; they must have put in at WAKDA.

1100
Set clocks back one hour to KING time. Got position report off.

FUEL: 5170
POSITION: 000-31' S
MILES: 283
141-45' E

27 March
Enroute SEADLER Harbor.

0230(K)
Sighted HEART Island bearing 2040T., distance 22 miles.

0914(K)
Sighted escort, DD611, bearing 0750T., range 15 miles.

0940(K)
Fell in astern of escort proceeding to port.

1215(K)
Moored to COUGAL in SEADLER Harbor. Commenced fueling. Transferred VANS, C.J. 642 59 31, T.I3c, USUR to COUGAL for further transfer to BURYLE for medical treatment.

Delivered report of special missions to COUGAL for delivery to CoastFAR-72.

Transmitted Australian Radoman to Australian Corvette.

1730(K)
Completed fueling.

"Page 6 thru 12 submitted in special report."

CONFIDENTIAL -5-

— page 99 —
27 March (Cont'd)
1810(K) Underway returning to petrol.
2023(K) Escort departed.
FUEL: 4840 POSITION: SEADLER
MILES: 404 HARBOR
28 March
Enroute area.
0600(K) Picked up SCAMP dead ahead on opposite
course, range 6 miles. Exchanged recognition
signals and dope.
0602(K) Sighted NINEGO Island about to port, range
22 miles.
0620(K) Submerged for trim.
0652(K) Surfaced.
0945(K) Plane sighted on parallel course, range
11 miles. Submerged to avoid detection.
No answer to I.F.F. challenge.
1018(K) Surfaced.
1345(K) Sighted two B-24's, course 1350T. Passed
overhead at about 10,000 feet. Exchanged
recognition signals with I.F.F.
1950(K) Have been challenged for some time on I.F.F.
--believe it might be a shore station trigger-
ing it off, so secured it.
FUEL: 3837 POSITION: 00°-45' S
MILES: 282 143°-33' E
29 March
Enroute area.
CONF IDENTIAL -13-

— page 100 —
29 March (Cont'd)
0545(K) Hit submerged log. No apparent damage.
0935(K) Plane contact on S.J. bearing 205°T, 30,000 yards.
0936(K) Plane sighted--unidentified bomber; submerged to avoid detection.
1013(K) Surfaed.
1040(K) Plane sighted bearing 140°T, range 8 miles. Submerged to avoid detection. Unidentified bomber.
1117(K) Surfaed.
1306(K) Unidentified two-engine bomber sighted--coming in, range of 4 miles. Made very quick dive.
1455(K) Surfaed:

FUEL: 3652
MILES: 309
POSITION: 000-05' S
138-46' E

30 March
Enroute Area.
1630(K) Entered area. Proceeding to Western end as this looks like the best spot.

FUEL: 3620
MILES: 339
POSITION: 020-28' N
134-40' E

31 March
Patrolling to Western edge of area.
0710(K) Submerged for trim.
0825(K) Surfaed.
1015(K) BETTY-type bomber appeared out of low hanging clouds and dropped two bombs getting a good straddle--one forward about 50 feet from our bow end the other further aft. Plane

CONTINUENTIAL -14-

— page 101 —
31 March (Cont'd)
was not sighted until bombs had been released. It was first heard by all hands on the bridge as it pulled out of its dive at about 1000 feet. When sighted by officer-of-the-deck the bombs were away and the forward one was observed to explode while clearing the bridge. We made what seemed to be the slowest dive on record, and conducted a periscope patrol the remainder of the day as the low hanging clouds and rain squalls never cleared up. He must have either seen us through a break in the clouds or had radar, because from all appearances he was coming in on a planned run at the time we picked him up. Visibility at the time was very poor varying from indefinite to about 3000 yards. The in from a rain squall and therefore we picked up soon-er. No damage was suffered.

1854(K)    Surfaced and continued patrol to Westward.
FUEL: 2093    POSITION: 03°-17' N
MILES: 313    130°-14' E

1 April
. Patrolling Western portion of area.

0712(K)    Made dawn trim dive.

0854(K)    Surfaced.

0917(K)    Plane sighted--DAVE-float type seaplane, range about 8 miles. Submerged to avoid detection.

1114(K)    Surfaced.

FUEL: 2054    POSITION: 03°-53' N
MILES: 196    128°-55' E

2 April
Patrolling Western end of area.

CONFIDENTIAL -15-

— page 102 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.
2 April (Cont'd)
0400(K)  Received ComTaskFor-72 serial assigning us to operational control of ComTaskFor-71.
0600(K)  Received ComTaskFor-71 serial assigning operational area. Changed course proceeding to area.
0957(K)  S.J. radar contact bearing 2050T., range 9,000 yards. Plane sighted coming out of range, squall, range 7,500 yards, angle on bow zero, flying low and coming in fast. Submerged with plane at 5,200 yards as radar went under. Received one depth charge and two aerial bombs as we went deep. No damage. Decided to conduct periscope patrol for remainder of day in order not to give away our destination.
1700(K)  Changed time to (-9) ITEM.
1855(I)  Surfaced.
FUEL: 1920  POSITION: 040-28' N  MILES: 280  1280-07' E
3 April
Enroute area.
0030(I)  Entered area assigned by ComTaskFor-71. Proceeding to designated point.
0519(I)  Plane contact on S.J., range 5,800 yards. Submerged with range 4,500 yards--coming in on a steady bearing. Range 2,800 yards when radar went under. It was still very black--no moon--we could not see plane end do not think he could possibly see me. Probably just happened to pass over us on his dawn patrol. Am 12 miles Northeast of point which is a little further out than I wanted to be, but only have a half hour more of darkness so remained submerged. Proceeding to point.

CONFIDENTIAL -16-

— page 103 —
0650(I) Sighted single engine float plane patrolling, bearing 0050T, distance 6 miles.
: 0735(I) Sighted some plane bearing 2700T, distance 4 miles.
: 0750(I) Picked up screws on J.P. After search found small petrol craft bearing 270T--avoided at periscope depth.
: 1003(I) Sighted float type plane again bearing 3560 T., distance 8 miles.
: 1235(I) Changed course to North patrolling along coast.
: 1930(I) Surfaced. Commenced night petrol running down moon streak.
FUEL: 1384 POSITION: 060-34' N MILES: 184 126-28' E

4 April
: 0527(I) Encountered radar interference bearing 0900 T., probably the BASHAW.
: 0541(I) Submerged seven miles Northeast of point. Proceeded to patrol on North end South line through point.
: 0853(I) Sighted "DAVE" type float plane bearing 0900T., course North, distance 8 miles.
: 1316(I) Sighted smoke bearing 2700T--in haze can not make out anything. Changed course to 2700T to close.
: 1445(I) Smoke proved to be on beach. Continued to patrol line North end South.
: 1927(I) Surfaced fifteen miles Southeast of Point AUGUSTIN. Commenced night petrol off cape.

CONFIDENTIAL -17-

— page 104 —
4 April (Cont'd)
Running one hour legs in moon streak.
FUEL: i241
POSITION: 06-07' N
MILES: 157
126°-01' E

5 April
Patrolling as before.

0539(I) Submerged for day patrol five miles South-east of patrol point.

1102(I) Heard a distant explosion to the Westward which might be the DARTER working over something coming out. Changed course to the Westward and J.P. picked up screws, nothing in sight. Stuck up about six feet of periscope and sighted the tops and stack of a CHIDORI type torpedo boat on an Easterly course. The next look he was about 12,000 yards away heading to the northward. Assumed we had been sighted by the constant air patrol maintained off Cape SAN AUGUSTIN so put our stern toward him and kept the periscope on him. His speed about 18.

1120(I) Sighted a new type of plane over the destroyer. Possibly it was a KATE, but it looked similar to our GRUMANS, the leading gear was retracted. Decided that this must be something more than a searching destroyer so came up to 60 feet for a better look and at sighted a converted aircraft carrier, smoke pipes on side, no island, two high masts-bearing 1780T., angle on the bow 20 starboard, range 18,000 yards. Commenced swinging left to 230T., and started in. Sounded battle stations.

1129(I) Carrier zigged and is now showing a 70 port angle on the bow, started swinging with full rudder when at

CONFIDENTIAL -18-

— page 105 —
5 April (Cont'd)
1131(I) the nearest destroyer or the plane dropped a depth charge feirly close. Went to 100 feet to make turn and lose aircraft screen; on comparing notes decided that it was nuisance bombing as both this end previous one had been on the even half hour so started up and at.

1139(I) Carrier had zigged to course of about 1500T., and was showing us a 1200 port angle on the bow, both escorts were on this side at this time. He later zigged back to about 0900T., but we were never closer than about 12,000 yards. Unfortunetely we were about 4 miles North of our "point" were caught off base. The disappointment turned to the ship was very evident.

1200(I) Right on the bell another depth charge was dropped, and another was heard in the distance at 1230. Decided not to send contact report until after surfacing, but later decided it was unnecessary to send one at all.

1959(I) 'Surfaced fifteen miles southeast of Cape SAN AUGUSTIN.

2158(I) Changed course to 2700T. proceeding the Western boundry of area. Will run up this line in hopes of contact.

2335(I) On Western boundry line, changed course to 3400.

Encountered radar interference bearing 2000 T., presumed to be SCARP or DARTER.

FUEL: 1527
MILES: 161
POSITION: 060-10' N
1260-20' E

CONFIDENTIAL -19-

— page 106 —
6 April
Patrolling Western edge of area.

0012(I) Radar contact, range 19,000 yards, bearing 3120T. Radar range closing fast so at

0014(I) changed course to 1600T, increased speed to full on three engines. One engine out of commission. Range now 16,000 yards. Have started to track.

0025(I) Submerged to radar depth to avoid detection. Leading destroyer range 13,000 yards--it is a bright night althought the sky is overcast and the nearly full moon lights of light. All ships are clearly visible

— page 107 —
6 April (Cont'd)
0035(I) Went to periscope depth with range of 4,800 yards on leading destroyer.

0039-45(I) Destroyer passed ahead, range 800 yards--he filled the entire field of the periscope. Problem is checking nicely, target has zigged to course 190°, visibility is excellent, can get good angles on the bow, speed 20 knots--will have to fire with a torpedo run of 3000 to 2500 yards. Changed course to 260° for 110° port track.

0041-38(I) Commenced firing at leading cruiser bearing 029° relative, gyro 42° right. Eight seconds later fired second torpedo at same target, gyro angle 3° right, torpedo run 3,000 yards.

0041-52(I) Shifted to second target, fired number three torpedo, periscope bearing 031°, gyro angle 80° right. Nine seconds later fired number four at same target, gyro angle 80°.

0042-10(I) Shifted to third target and fired number five torpedo, periscope bearing 035°, gyro angle 143° right. Eleven seconds later fired number six, gyro 140° right, torpedo run 2600 yards.

0042-21(I) Right full rudder to bring stern tubes to bear. After swinging 90° saw that targets were going by too fast to get off a stern shot; so steadied up on reverse course to await development.

After waiting two minutes without any explosion decided that we had missed with all torpedoes. Do not know where our bust was unless it was in speed. We didn't have much time to rack--only 20 minutes, guess we made a mistake shooting the works at three different targets, but what a jack pot if we had collected. The dope looked good so decided to take the chance. Sound heard torpedoes running apparently hot, straight and normal.

0115(I) Surfaced with range to near target 14,000 yards. Commenced chasing at full power on CONFIDENTIAL -21-

— page 108 —
6 April (Cont'd)
three main engines. Hope one of the other boats gets in, turns them back and gives us another crack at them. Commenced reload forward.

0120(I) Commenced transmitting contact report to ComTaskfor-71. Cleared message in twenty minutes.

0126(I) Radar interference bearing 220°T., believed to be DARTER--hope he gets in.

Have continued tracking target and determined our error. He is making 22 knots, course 180°.

0140(I) Target changed course: 230°T.

0150(I) Lost sight contact.

0205(I) Received rebroadcast of contact report.

0245(I) Sent second contact report; new course and speed.

0258(I) Clearance contact report.

0300(I) Lost radar contact with target, range 37,000 yards.

0305(I) Received rebroadcast of second contact report.

0310(I) Discontinued chase, changed course to 030° proceeding back to patrol station.

0541(I) Submerged for day patrol seven miles South-east of point.

1925(I) Surfaced 16 miles Southeast of Cape SAN AUGUSTIN. Commenced night surface patrol. Have decided to work North along coast about eight miles off in hopes of getting something coming down from North hugging coast.

CONFIDENTIAL -22-

— page 109 —
2100(I) Received ComTaskFor-71's serial 110 detaching us. Will continue patrol Northwest to edge of area and then depart. Sure hate to leave this area as there seems to be a lot of activity.

FUEL: 1963 POSITION: 06°-18' N MILES: 178 126°-25' E

7 April
Patrolling North along coast.

0132(I) Radar contact bearing 3420T, range 17,500 yards. This contact is very close to land and hard to get a good range and bearing on. Commence tracking; closing to see if we can make it out. Conti...ed close...ly trying to see target but unable to see it, until at a range of 10,000 yards target became barely visible in moon streak. Cannot make it out because of land background--all that is visible is a dark streak near water line. He is only 1,000 yards from beach end is proceeding on a Southerly course hugging each cove. We have a very bright background so at

0243(I) submerged to make turn, open out and get ahead.

0255(I) Surfaced and opened out from beach. Can not get in for a surface attack with this light, so will get ahead of him and make the attack as he reaches Cape SAIIT AUGUSTIN. In this way I will get a look at him when he has passed beyond the land background. I still do not know whether he is a suitable torpedo target. He has one escort that was picked up on radar at 15,000 yards. Escort is about 1,000 yards ahead and pinging.

0300 to Making end around. 0430(I) Now ahead of target and starting to close point.

CONTINUENTIAL -23-

— page 110 —
7 April (Cont'd)
0448(I) Sighted P.T. boat headed North at high speed, angle on the bow 200' starboard, bearing 0400 relative, range 3,500 yards. Changed course to left to allow him to pass. He passed abeam 2800 yards. Resumed course to close target. (Can't imagine why P.T. didn't see us.) When two miles off Cape SAINT AUGUSTIN at
0506(I) with the range of target 8,000 yards submerged to radar depth. The moon is now under a cloud, but visibility is still pretty good judging from looks of the P.T. boat. Have seen target and can now make him out as a small freighter of 2 or 4 thousand tons, escort is a Chidori type torpedo boat of large P.C. and is still ahead.
0511(I) Target has closed to 6,000 yards. Cannot find escort on radar so dropped down to periscope depth to see if I can pick him up in the periscope.
0512(I) Moon is under heavy clouds--cannot see either escort or target through periscope. Hope it comes out in time to put some bearings into T.D.C.. Continued search until at
0514-30 received a close depth charge. Still can't see anything so went deep. Escort must have seen our periscope sheers as we were making pretty good speed closing target.
0517(I) Second depth charge, close but above us.
0522(I) Third depth charge not very close.
Escort continued searching area for another hour, but we were under an 110 gradient so he did not find us.
0712(I) Started back to periscope depth.

CONFIDENTIAL -24-

— page 111 —
7 April (Cont'd)
0730(I) At periscope depth--nothing in sight.
Commenced periscope patrol departing area in accordance with orders.

1905(I) Surfaced.

2117(I) Received new area assignment form ComTask-For-72.

FUEL: 1759 POSITION: 06°-01' N
MILES: 161 126°-31' E

8 April
Proceeding new area.

0020(I) Received ComTaskFor-72's serial directing conservation of fuels for wind to one engine.

0615(I) Made dawn dive. Sky is covered with low clouds so will remain submerged until it clears.

1123(I) Doesn't look as if it will clear so surfaced and proceeded to area on one engine.

FUEL: 1526 POSITION: 04°-49' N
MILES: 173 128°-43' E

9 April
Proceeding to area.

0130(I) Entered new area.

0556(I) Made dawn dive. Numerous low clouds and rain squalls so decided to conduct a submerged patrol until it clears.

0800(I) Commenced renewing piston rings in #3 main engine.

1010(I) Surfaced. There are still numerous clouds.

CONFIDENTIAL -25-

— page 112 —
1135(I) Rain squalls have closed to 8,000 yards so submerged to avoid planes.

: 1655(I) Surfaced. Continued surface patrol at one engine speed.

: 1908(I) Changed course to 0650T., to get a radar fix on MERI Island. Haven't had a decent fix since leaving Cape SAINT AUGUSTINE.

: 2135(I) Obtained radar fix on MERI Island, bearing 0180T, range 20,000 yards. Changed course to 1200T to get back to area.

FUEL: 1105
MILES: 215
POSITION: 030-54'N 1310-37'E

10 April
Patrolling across North Sea edge of area at one engine speed.

0355(I) Received message concerning SCAMP. Decided to stay in Eastern part of area in case we can be of any assistance.

0605(I) Made dawn dive.

0835(I) Surfaced. Patrolling Eastern part of area at one engine speed.

1127(I) Received ComTaskFor-72's serial :, telling us to contact SCAMP. Changed course to West, increased speed to 2-engine speed--should pick him up about 2100.

1843(I) #3 Main Engine back in commission. Commenced renewing piston rings #4 main engine.

1850(I) Received ComTaskFor-72's serial : which contained original orders to contact SCAMP. This must have been transmitted during dawn dive.

1955(I) Radar interference. Headed for it.

CONFIDENTIAL -26-

— page 113 —
10 April (Cont'd)
2035(I) Radar contact bearing 186°T., range 13,000 yards.
2045(I) Exchanged recognition signals with SCAMP. Exchanged information and took station ahead at SCAMP's request. Proceeding in company.
FUEL: 2265 POSITION: 03°-38'N MILES: 191 133°-19'E

11 April
Escorting SCAMP to base.
0100(I) Number One Main Generator burned out. Binding wire appears to have carried away putting generator complete out of commission. Will require new armature. No knowledge what caused this as we were cruising at 75/90. There was no indication of the casuality until the overload blew and smoke came out of generator.
0530(I) SCAMP submerged. Stood by to see that everything was all right.
0615(I) Submerged. Conducted periscope patrol.
1818(I) Surfaced.
1822(I) Radar interference from SCAMP. Closed and took station ahead.
FUEL: 1512 POSITION: 03°-00'N MILES: 256 134°-18'E

12 April
Escorting SCAMP.
0602(I) SCAMP submerged.
0613(I) Received okay by sound from SCAMP so submerged for periscope patrol.

CONFIDENTIAL -27-

— page 114 —
12 April
1753(I)  Surfaced.
1816(I)  Radar interference, closed SCAMP and took up position for night.
FULL: 1703  POSITION: 02°-24' N
MILES: 178  137°-12' E

13 April
Escorting SCAMP.
0525(I)  SCAMP submerged.
0527(I)  Received okay from SCAMP so submerged.
1730(I)  Surfaced.
1803(I)  Radar interference. SCAMP and took up night cruising position.
2115(I)  Radar contact on port bow, range 3,000 yards. Sent information to SCAMP and changed course away. Could not see anything believed to be wreckage or drift wood.
2130(I)  Resumed course.
FULL: 1427  POSITION: 01°-49' N
MILES: 174  139°-46' E

14 April
Escorting SCAMP.
0507(I)  SCAMP submerged.
0512(I)  Received okay from SCAMP so submerged.
1728(I)  Surfaced.
1755(I)  Radar interference. Closed SCAMP and took up night position.
FULL: 1496  POSITION: 01°-06' N
MILES: 176  143°-19' E

CONFIDENTIAL -28-

— page 115 —
14 April
Escorting SCAMP.
0507(I) SCAMP submerged.
0512(I) Received okay from SCAMP so submerged.
1728(I) Surfaced.
1755(I) Radar interference. Closed SCAMP and took up night position.
FUEL: 1496 POSITION: 01C-06' N
MILES: 176 143°-19' E

15 April
Escorting SCAMP.
0517(I) SCAMP submerged.
0522(I) Received okay so submerge.
1538(I) Surfaced for sun line.
1554(I) Submerged.
1727(I) Surfaced.
1745(I) Radar interference. Closed SCAMP and took position ahead.
FUEL: 1800 POSITION: 00C-24' N
MILES: 184 145°-08' E

16 April
Escorting SCAMP.
0311(I) Radar contact. Changed course to close.
0344(I) Exchanged recognition signals and dope with escort, U.S.S. JUNI.INS. Fell in astern proceeding to SEADELIKER Harbor.
0500(I) Set clocks ahead one hour to zone (-10) KING.

CONFIDENTIAL -29-

— page 116 —
16 April
1004(K) Anchored at SEADLER Harbor, Admiralty Islands.
1500(K) Vent alongside U.S.S. MINK for fuel.
FUEL: POSITION: At Anchor
MILES:
17 April At SEADLER Harbor.
1200(K) Completed fueling and taking on lub. oil.
Ready for sea.
18 April At SEADLER Harbor.
19 April Underway clearing sight of JENKINS.
0753(K) Cleared SEADLER Harbor escorted by USS JENKINS, proceeding to patrol area.
1740(K) Sighted friendly task force of four carriers and six destroyers.

1758(K) Changed course to East to pass astern of force.
1830(K) Resumed base course.
1845(K) Escort departed.

CONFIDENTIAL -30-

— page 117 —
19 April (Cont'd)
1850(K) Another radar contact, four targets bearing 3130T, range 24,500 yards. Ships not seen but believed to be additional units of other Task Force, as we are receiving radar interference.

1915(K) Radar contact 22,000 yards, bearing 0100T. Changed course to work around astern of force as radar interference indicates they are friendly.

2115(K) Have worked around force; resumed base course.

Challenged each of these contacts with I.F.F. Got no reply at 14:00.

FUEL: 1851 POS: 10-18' S MILES: 64 14?0-55' E

20 April
Encrute area.

0553(K) Morning trim dive.

0616(K) Surfaed.

0654(K) Sighted plane bearing 3450T, range 12 miles. Exchanged I.F.F. recognition signal.

1021(K) Sighted unidentified plane bearing 1500T, range 10 miles. Submerged. Received I.F.F. challenge as we went under. Came to periscope depth and observed smoke float 1,000 yards ahead. Saw plane--B-25 circling close aboard so fired smoke float.

1058(K) Surface, plans now around.

CONFIDENTIAL -31-

— page 118 —
20 April
FUEL: 4250
MILES: 377
POSITION: 040-08' N
148°-07' E

21 April
Enroute area.
0818(K) Two-engine bomber sighted bearing 330°T., range 8 miles, coming in at about 1500 feet. Challenged him on I.F.F.--no reply so at
0819(K) with S.F. range 10,000 yards submerged.
0955(K) Surfaced.
1045(K) Challenge on I.F.F., range 32 miles.
FUEL: 4407
MILES: 356
POSITION: 050-03' N
143°-29' E

22 April
Enroute area.
0810(K) Sighted "BETTY" type bomber coming in, distance 8 miles, bearing 300°T. Submerged. Lost I.C. power and took excessive angle (490) down. Backed and blew to bring her out of it at 150 feet. Angle was caused by following planes were believed to be out when I.C. indicator went out. Actually they were on hard dive when we shifted to hand; number 7 vent was not opened and this was not discovered until we go I.C. again and thus indicator lights. Prior to this did not believe it possible to get under with a tank empty.
0927(K) Surfaced.
1055(K) "BETTY" sighted and picked up by S.J. bearing 320°T, range 14 miles. Submerged to avoid detection.

CONFIDENTIAL -32-

— page 119 —
22 April (Cont'd)
1132(K)    Surfaced.
1144(K)    Another "BETTY" sighted bearing 220°T, range about 10 miles. He closed to 7 miles by S.J. range so at
1145(K)    submerged. They either have a lot of planes out here or this fellow is persistent.
1334(K)    Surfaced.
FUEL: 3177    POSITION: 05°-00' N
MILES: 324    138°-30' E

23 April
Enroute area.
1507(K)    Sighted plane, S.T. rn 16;000 yards, elevation 10°, course 020°T., type "BETTY". Submerged to avoid detection.
1612(K)    Surfaced.
1835(K)    Sighted SONSOROL Island bearing 323°T., distance 20 miles. Closed to 5 miles, no sign of activity.
2050(K)    Radar interference bearing 255°T., probably BLUEGILL.
FUEL: 4120    POSITION: 04°-54' N
MILES: 354    133°-21' E

24 April
Enroute area.
0430(K)    Radar interference bearing 275°T., probably DAKTER.
0922(K)    Planes sighted bearing 020°T., S.J. range 16,800 yards. Four-engine bomber (MAVIS), course 125°T.

CONFIDENTIAL
...33...

— page 121 —
25 April (Cont'd)
FUEL: 3160
MILES: 324
POSITION: 03°-49' N
128°-57' E

26 April
Patrolling area.
0208(K) Reached Southwest corner of area, reversed course.
1230(K) Reached Northeast limit of area, reversed course.
1839(K) Periscope sighted by 0.0.D. end lookout. Bearing 210°T, range 1,000 yards. Headed for it--increased speed to full. Periscope not sighted again, left vicinity at full speed.
1949(K) Reversed course to search area for possible submarine.
2048(K) Have retraced our track to a point four miles beyond contact with no results so continued patrol to Southwest.
FUEL: 3026
MILES: 327
POSITION: 04°-07' N
129°-21' E

27 April
Patrolling area.
0300(K) Reached Southwest corner of area, reversed course.
1230(K) Reached Northeast limit, reversed course.
2045(K) S.J. radar contact 23,000 yards, bearing 200°T. Headed toward and began tracking. Tracked him on course 1°45', twenty knots, zig zaging thirty degrees off the side of base course on five minutes. Continued closing at full power (1,000 kts) as I believe he will.

CONFIDENTIAL -3-

— page 122 —
27 April (Cont’d)

head North to DAVAO when he get West of TALAUD Island. Only hope of catching him is that he slows down when he moon sets at 2230. By maximum speed is 18 knots.

2345(K) Lost radar contact range 24,000 yards. From indications of the radar pip and speed I believe targets were destroyers. Closest range we were able to get was 21,000 yards. Sent contact report to Commander For-72, continued West but with little hope.

FUEL: 2775 POSITION: 04-06' N MILES: 321 129-26' E

28 April
Searching for contact.

0027(K) Gave up search as I see no chance of regaining contact. Returning to area.

0647(K) Submerged for trim. Weather overcast, numerous rain squalls making aircraft detection improbable so decided to remain submerged to see if it would clear.

0956(K) Has cleared some so surfaced. Had numerous rain squalls all day.

1441(K) Reached Northeast limit and reversed course.

FUEL: 2671 POSITION: 05-58' N MILES: 291 124-59' E

29 April
Patrolling area.

0130(K) Reached Southwest limit. Reversed course.

0645(K) Made dawn trim.

CONFIDENTIAL -36-

— page 123 —
29 April (Cont'd)
0814(K)    Surfaced.
1230(K)    Reached Northeast limit, reversed course.
1745(K)    Sighted NOROTOI Island bearing 190°T.,
    distance 25 miles.
1911(K)    Sighted unidentified plane bearing 220°T.,
    range 14 miles, parallel course.
1917(K)    Plane passed out of sight.
FUEL: 2827    POSITION: 04°-04' N
MILES: 319    129°-16' E

30 April
Patrolling area.
0046(K)    Reversed course patrolling to Northeast.
0128(K)    Received serial 96 directing us to depart
    area.
0645(K)    Made dawn dive.
0820(K)    Surfaced.
1930(K)    Changed course to 270° proceeding to new
    station.
FUEL: 2178    POSITION: 03°-30' N
MILES: 294    129°-00' E

1 May
Patrolling new area.
1357(K)    Commenced station patrol.
1910(K)    Submarine sighted bearing 334°T. Closed
    to investigate.

CONFIDENTIAL -37-

— page 124 —
1948(K) Exchanged recognition signals and calls. Submarine is PARGO. Had not been informed that she was in vicinity. PARGO said she would patrol North of track; so I decided to patrol South of same.

2230(K) Radar contact bearing 0250T., range 18,750 yards. Commenced tracking.

1050(K) Have sighted two escorts on each side of target. Moon is very bright, and we can see target is a large tanker--can not make out escorts, but they look like destroyers.

FUEL: 2950 POSITION: 040-13' N MILES: 317 1280-15' E

2 May

Tracking convoy.

0230(K) Have tracked target for four hours and definitely proved that he has no zig plan that repeats. (Apparently uses new plan each hour). His course ranges from 165° to 300° with base course about 200°. His legs vary from five to twelve minutes. He gets as far as 7 miles off the base course on each side. Radar has been going out intermittently so think it advisable to try for a submerged attack while the moon is still up. I am on his track--he is to the left of it, but should be coming back. Submerged and commenced normal approach at full speed. Can not pick target up on radar so at

0240(K) went to periscope depth and continued approach

CONFIDENTIAL -38-

— page 126 —
2 May (Cont'd)
0545(K) Destroyer dropped one depth charge fairly close. Nuisance depth charges continued at fifteen minute intervals until 0700(K).
Decided it is useless to try to close him through island group on surface during daylight so will conduct periscope patrol during morning and give all hands a rest.
1508(K) Surfaced. Proceeding to base.
FUEL: 2450 POSITION: 030-28' N
MILES: 267 1280-12' E
3 May
Enroute base.
0726(K) Sighted MERIR Island bearing 1250T., distance 12 miles.
FUEL: 4384 POSITION: 040-37' N
MILES: 339 1330-15' E
4 May
Enroute base.
1156(K) Sighted B-24 bearing 2420T., S.J. range 4,200 yards. Sent challenge on I.F.F. and submerged.
1221(K) Surfaced.
FUEL: 5096 POSITION: 050-00' N
MILES: 374 1380-50' E
5 May
Enroute base.
1108(K) Plane sighted bearing 1600T., range 7 miles, type "MAVIS". Submerged to avoid detection.
1203(K) Surfaced.

CONFIDENTIAL -40-

— page 127 —
5_Mev ("Cont'd")
1223(K) Unidentified plane sighted bearing 120°T, distance 7 miles. Sent challenge on I.F.F. -no reply so submerged.

1253(K) Surfaced.
FUEL: 3d78 POSITION: 050-06' N
MILES: 319 143°-33' E

6 May
Enroute base.
0800(K) Entered Safety lane.
FUEL: 5111 POSITION: 030-04' N
MILES: 376 148°-11' E

7 May
Enroute base.
0537(K) Sighted FLOUTTER bearing 195°T.
0538(K) Exchanged recognition signals with escort, P.F. 139. Formed column astern FLOUNDER proceeding in company.
0630(K) Sighted PBY bearing 220°T., range 10 miles.
FUEL: 4449 POSITION: 020-47' S
MILES: 391 148°-17' E

8 May
Enroute through VITIAZ Straits in company with ODGEN and FLOUNDER.
Encountered numerous friendly ships in passage.
0525(K) ODGEN departed.
1145(K) S.J. contact at 12,000 yards, later seen and identified as a PBY. Exchanged recognition signals.

CONFIDENTIAL -41-

— page 128 —
8 May (Cont'd)
FULL: 3878
MILES: 319
POSITION: 07°-12' S
149°-23' E

9 May
Enroute base in company with FLOUNDER.
0550(K) Sighted escort, H.I.S. CASTLEMAINE, bearing 2200T. Joined up and proceeded to HILINE Bay.
1207(K) Departed CHINA straits enroute Brisbane.
1521(K) Escort departed.
Sighted numerous friendly ships that were avoided.
FULL: 2624
MILES: 344
POSITION: 10°-47' S
150°-32' E

10 May
Enroute Brisbane.
0700(K) Sighted friendly merchantman. Changed course to pass well clear.
FULL: 3216
MILES: 322
POSITION: 14°-23' S
151°-53' E

11 May
Enroute Brisbane.
2300(K) Radar interference. Closed and exchanged signals with BRUEL.
FULL: 3221
MILES 325
POSITION: 180°-45' S
153°-35' E

12 May
Enroute Brisbane.
1028(K) Raid dive to 300 feet to c.eck for leaks.

CONFIDENTIAL -42-

— page 129 —
12 May (Cont'd)
1111(K) Surfaoed.
1630(K) Fired all guns for test and training.
FUEL: 3230 POSITION: 24°-09' S
HILLS: 331 154°-38' E

13 May
Enroute Brisbane
0615(K) Picked up pilot.
0800(K) Entered MORTON Bay.
1000(K) Moored New Farm 'harb.
FUEL: 3190 POSITION: Brisbane River.
MILES: 348

CONFIDENTIAL -43-

— page 137 —
55. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.

(H) ATTACK DATA:

TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM

U.S.S. DACE
Torpedo Attack No. ONE. Patrol No. THREE.

Time: 0041-38(I) Date 6 April  Lat. 06-05'-30" N
    Long. 126-09'-30" E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Three CL's or CA's escorted by four destroyers.

Ship(s) sunk: None.

Ship(s) damaged or probably sunk: None.

Damage determined by: None

Target draft: 18 feet Course: 190°T. Speed: 20

Range: 3000 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 5.8 Course 262°T. Depth: 65 feet Angle: Zero (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack:

The target was tracked for 15 minutes on the surface and then, at radar depth until the range decreased to 4,500 yards. The final stage of the attack were conducted at periscope depth in bright moonlight. Two torpedoes were fired at each cruiser longitudinal spread.

CONFIDENTIAL -51-

— page 139 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.
(H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)
TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM

: U.S.S. DACE  Torpedo Attack No. TWO. Patrol No. THREE,
Time: 0539(K)  Date: 2 May 1944  Lat. 03°-23' N
    Long. 127°-56' E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description:  One tanker, one DD, one PC
Ship(s) sunk:  None.
Ship(s) damaged or
probably sunk:  None.
Damage Determined
by:  None.
Target draft: 12 feet  Course: 180°T.  Speed 15
Range 5300 (at firing)

ON SHIP DATA

Speed: 18  Course: 230°T.  Depth:  Surface
Angle:  Zero (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack:
Tracked the target for six hours on the surface,
and then made a night surface attack using T.B.T bearing and Mk VIII angle solver, zero gyro, 1/20 spread.
Detected by escort at time of firing. Believed target
zigged away thus, causing miss astern.

CONFIDENTIAL  -53-

— page 141 —
1. The most disconcerting anti-submarine measure is the persistent air patrols. These were avoided during clear weather by efficient lookout's and S.J. search. However, twice during squally weather we were detected and bombed, once on the surface by a BE'TY, and bombed and depth charged at another time by another BITY. In both of these cases the approach from the rain squalls gave indications that he had some means; such as radar, for detecting us.

2. All ships encountered were escorted. Some of the escorts were pinging and are reported to be listening. In two cases escorts were reported to be in charge at regular intervals.

3. The destroyer escort encountered on the night of 1 and 2 May apparently had radar equipment. This equipment is discussed in sections NME and UNCLE.

(K) MAJOR DEFENSES AND DAMAGE:

11 April - #1 Main Generator Derangement.

After being on the line developing 810 K.W.H. at 680 R.P.M. (75/90) for 10 hours and 9 minutes the breakers tripped out in the maneuvering room. The engine continued to operate normally. No attempt was made to place the generator back on the line. One minute after breakers tripped out the engine was stopped for inspection of generator. The findings at this inspection are as follows:

(1) Generator temperatures normal.
(2) After bearing in good condition.
(3) Radial and axial position of armature normal.
(4) Large amount of non-magnetic steel wire burned into short pieces. This wire corresponds to specifications for the armature binding wire.
(5) One small piece of copper bar. This copper bar corresponds to specifications for armature conductor.

CONFIDENTIAL -55-

— page 142 —
1. U.S.S. D.AOE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.
2. (K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (Go'd)
   - Apparently the binding wire broke and short circuited the armature causing the overload that tripped the breakers.
   - The total damage is not known nor can it be estimated until the armature is lifted out of the casing. This being beyond the scope the ship's force facilities no attempt has been made to repair the generator.
   - The generator had operated normally for approximately 2200 hours. The megger readings april 3 were field 10 meg., armature 8 meg.
   - 17 March - #3 Main Engine Air Box Fire and Derangement.
   - Fire broke out in the air box at 5 minutes, and operating at various levels from no load to 1050 K.W. Indications of the existence of fire in the air box were sparks and heavy smoke emitted from the air box drains. The engine was secured and the fire smothered. Two units were pulled for inspection. Conditions found are as follows:
      (1) Excessive amount of lubricating oil in air box.
      (2) Excessive gap clearance in all piston rings except the new rings which had been installed during the refit. These new rings (2 to 4 per unit) had taken the full load and had worn so rapidly that their gap clearance was almost equal to the rings that had approximately 1500 hours service. The gap clearance of all piston rings was between .049" and .056". Gap clearance data submitted by refit crew for this engine was .030" to .047". It is difficult to attribute this discrepancy to wear in view of the short time in service since overhaul (app. 70 hrs.). The lower compression ring has been replaced by an additional oil ring, which is in accordance with specifications for replacement "Cast iron pistons" in G.I.6-248 engines.

CONFIDENTIAL -56-

— page 143 —
1. USS, DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (Cont'd)

This change does not apply to our engines with aluminum pistons and should not have been made. Since replacement of the lower compression ring with an additional oil ring our lub. oil consumption has increased approximately 100%. It is recommended that the lower compression ring be reinstalled in all four main engines.

Number four main engine air box drains showed signs of excessive lub. oil passing the rings and into the air box after approximately 100 engine hours. It was then decided to renew the rings in #1 and #4 engines. Spares on board were not sufficient to renew rings in #2 engine.

The following defects were found after refit:

#1 HULL TIRE

(1) One exhaust elbow cracked.
(2) Five heads loose.
(3) #1 main bearing loose and cocked.
(4) Excessive ring gear clearance.

#2 MAIN ENGINE

(1) Defective bearings in overspeed governor.
(2) Four leaking air starting check valves.
(3) Two loose main bearing jackscraves, one of these bearings appeared to have been driven into place with a screw driver, defacing the butt which made it necessary to renew the bearing.
(4) Regulating governor improperly set.
(5) Six heads loose.

#3 MAIN ENGINE

(1) Defective bearings in overspeed governor.
(2) Four injector spray valve nuts cracked.
(3) Excessive ring gear clearance.
(4) Ring gaps not staggered.
(5) Rings installed upside down in #9, 10, 11, 14 and 16 units.

CONFIDENTIAL -57-

— page 144 —
1. Loose injector in #9 unit.
2. Injector of one unit driven into head so hard, removal of head and use of sledge hammer was necessary to remove injector. The injector was damaged beyond repair by this method of removal.
3. Sleeve from fresh water manifold to liner in #3 unit was crossed threaded and screwed in 1-1/2 turns. Sleeve leaked.
4. Excessive ring gap clearance.
5. Rings installed upside down in #7, 8, 9, and 14 units.
6. Ring gaps not staggered.

MISCELLANEOUS:
1. Unnecessary use of gaskets and washers in head assemblies.
2. Three spare injectors required overhauling before being placed into service. Two of which had bent racks and scored plunger and bushing.

(L) RADIO
No major casualties were experienced in the radio equipment during this patrol.

It each attempt to transmit difficulty was experienced in contacting shore stations on the East coast of Australia. Regardless of our relative position at the time of transmission, East coast stations were about strength 2 or 3. All serial numbered messages were received. Prompt action was received on two "Urgent" messages transmitted. Seven minutes after transmission "Bells" repeated message over regular schedule.

(M) RADAR
During the attack upon a convoy on the night of 1-2 May, sugar jig interference was encountered from one of the enemy escorts. On the "A" scope it looked

CONFIDENTIAL -58-

— page 146 —
15.0
(0) DENSITY LAYERS (Cont'd)
In the vicinity of HOLLANDIA showed little tendency toward density layer formation--usually a straight line showed up on the card.

(2) One card was taken on March 30 at 3-17W, 130-39-15E which showed a density layer with a negative temperature gradient at about 200 feet.

(3) From April 2 to April 6 inclusive, daily trim dives to 300 feet or more were made. The BT indicated fair to good density layers around 300 feet. This was off Cape ST. AUGUSTIN, MINNAO, about 15 miles off shore to the S.E. The layers were accompanied with negative temperature gradients of 2°-3°F. On two occasions during this period the vessel was balanced over 1/2 hour without change of trim, and could have apparently remained stopped indefinitely.

(4) From 7 to 14 April BT cards were obtained on deep dives extending in longitude from 128-26 E to 144-50 E and in latitude from 4-53 N to 00-26 N. Cards taken during this period showed layers at around 200 to 250 feet. Eastward from 136° to 144° where the latitude of the area covered was not above 002° N., there were no signs of a layer down to 300 feet.

(5) Three cards were obtained at about 04 N, 128 E from 28 April through 1 May. All showed density layers between 250 and 350 feet. These were accompanied with about a 30 negative temperature gradient.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY

During the first 15 days of patrol there were 22 mild cases of upper respirator infection--only one case was of sufficient severity to require admission to the sick list. The high incidence of colds was attributed to the disagreeable weather conditions during the latter part of recreation period and the over worked and rushed activity immediately proceeding leaving on patrol. During the remainder of the patrol there have been no colds.

CONFIDENTIAL. -60-

— page 147 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY (Cont'd)

One case of suspected Dysentery developed and subject man was transferred.

One case of Vincents Angina developed, immediate isolation of mess gear to avoid spread of disease was effected--patient responded rapidly to local treatment.

The general health during the latter part of the patrol was excellent.

The food was of good quality and wide varient, and well prepared.

The habitability has been very good, the major part of the patrol being made on the surface. The air conditioning and ventilation systems keep the compartments at a comfortable temperature.

(Q) PERSONNEL

The performance of all hands was excellent. The engineers deserve special credit for their work in overhauling three main engines.

It. Comdr. W.G. HOLMAN's performance of duty as Executive Officer and assistant approach officer deserves special mention. His experience and excellent judgement took much responsibility of the shoulders of the commanding officer. His excellent navigation and attention to duty was of great assistance during the four days spent close to shore conducting the Special Missions assigned.

Ensign E.T. JONES also deserves special mention as this was his first patrol as Engineer and Diving Officer. He did an excellent job of overhauling the three main engines and keeping the plant in good condition. His coolness and expert handling of the boat left nothing to be desired. His performance of duty as head of department would do credit to anyone of higher rank and greater experience.

CONFIDENTIAL -61-

— page 148 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.

(Q) PERSONNEL

The new men received from Division 181 relief crew have proved to be well trained and adapted themselves rapidly to the routine.

The lookouts and radar operetors did an excellent job as shown by the number of aircraft sighted at considerable distances.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED

| MILES STEAMED | FUEL USED |
|||
| 1366         | 16,378   |
| 677          | 7,165    |
| 687          | 10,590   |
| 930          | 11,109   |
| 2209          | 18,837   |
| 968          | 7,838    |
| 2021          | 21,721   |
| 2460          | 22,037   |
| 3821          | 41,400   |
| 15130         | 157,300  |

(S) DURATION

| DAYS | 6 |
|-----|--|
| 4   | 3 |
| 11  | 4 |
| 6   | 6 |
| 9   | 9 |
| 10  | 59 |

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMUNING

| Torpedoes | Fuel | Provisions | Personnel |
||------|||
| 13       | 8,126| 20        | 10         |

The limiting factor this patrol was orders of CTF-72.

CONFIDENTIAL -62-

— page 149 —
1. Enemy Radar.

I am convinced that the escorts encountered on the night of 1-2 May had some form of radar. The interference was noted on our S.J. screen for a period of seven hours. This interference was very similar to the interference given by one of our own S.J.'s except it kept trained on us at all times, and did not sweep as our's normally does. There are two explanations of this --the most likely one I think is that it is a non-directional affair similar to the S.D. The other explanation is that he had our interference on his screen, and kept trained on that bearing; this seems improbable because if he knew our bearing I think he would have investigated. I do believe however that he had our interference and knew we were around somewhere for the following reasons:

(a) When we submerged we were at the sound gear, and at that time the target was not pinging. Soon after we went to periscope depth however he began to ping. I thought nothing of this at the time, but it does indicate that the escort knew we had submerged. When we again came up to radar depth the pinging stopped indicating that he thought we were surfaced.

(b) At 0400 escort commenced dropping nuisance depth charges for no apparent reason. He could not point if he was sighted as at this time, so I must have discovered we were around by some other means.

I think he picked us up by radar about the time we were firing. At this time his range was 8,000 yards. I do not believe he could have seen us with the visibility conditions, and the small angle on the bow we were presenting. The close escort was four thousand yards closer and the target was at 5500 yards; neither of these apparently saw us.

CONFIDENTIAL

-63-

— page 150 —
U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.

(U) REMARKS (Cont'd)

2. Movement of own forces.

The afternoon of 19 April this vessel encountered a friendly task force of carriers and destroyers in
Lat. 0-00 N, Long. 148-12 E. Our escort was with us at the time and exchanged recognition signals identifying
them as friendly. That night two other task forces were picked up on radar at points further North. They were
challenged by I.F.F., but no reply was received. Radar interference was encountered so they were assumed friendly and avoided. I had no information as to the movement of these forces, and if the original contact had been at night a serious situation would have resulted as I would have made an attack. The only indication I had that the other two task forces were friendly was the radar indication which can no longer be used as an indication. I did not send a correct report because I did not think it advisable to transmit with a friendly task force in the vicinity and thus give the enemy a chance to D.F. and perhaps disclose the presence of this force. Information of movement of own forces are essential to avoid confusion and serious mistakes.

Patrol area and movements of submarines operating under SubPac and TaskForce 71 could often be used to advantage while patrolling in adjacent areas. Also, their communication plans would be very useful. With this information I think contacts could be passed along much faster and more intelligently.

3. The traffic in this area appears to be scarce and sporadic. All targets encountered were high speed which made it difficult to gain position for an attack unless the submarine was fortunate enough to be on the track ahead of the target. The wide zigs make it difficult to get in even then, unless a surface attack is feasible. I believe that better results would be obtained if areas close to harbor entrances, and passes between island groups were patrolled.

CONFIDENTIAL -64-

— page 151 —
1. U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Report of War Patrol Number Three.
   (U) KEMARKS (Cont'd).

4. Enroute Brisbane one unit of #3 Main Engine was broken down for inspection and the following results noted:
   (1) Liner diameter 8.502" throughout.
   (2) King gap clearances:

| RING NO. | AT INSTALLATION | AFTER INSTALLATION |
||||
| 1       | .036           | .048             |
| 2       | .036           | Stuck in groove, Eroken in removing. |
| 3       | .036           | .040             |
| 4       | .036           | .040             |
| 5       | .036           | .045             |
| 6       | .036           | .049             |
| 7       | .036           | .046             |

This engine was overhauled by ship's force during the patrol and had been in operation for 546 hours since overhaul.

The following conclusions are drawn:
(a) The new type compression and wire rings installed during last refit should be replaced with the original type rings that were installed in this engine. The conclusion is reached because of the number of rings that have been discovered to be stuck; because of the excessive smoking that has been observed since the change of rings; and, because of the great increase in lub. oil consumption.
(b) Oversize rings should be obtained for replacement during subsequent refits.

VINTAGE TITANIC
-65-

— page 152 —
1. The Commander Submarine Division ONE EIGHTY ONE.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN.
(2) The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE - Third War Patrol; Comments on.

1. Of three contacts with suitable torpedo targets to develop two into attacks which are briefly summarized as follows:

Attack Number One: At 0041(1) on April 6, 1944, in Lat. 06-05-30N, Long. 125-05-30E, DACE fired six torpedoes at a column of three cruisers, which were escorted by four escorts. Two torpedoes were fired at each of the three cruisers. All were misses, probably due to incorrect speed estimate. For more vulnerable targets it is frequently good policy to divide fire in order to obtain damaging hits to slow down targets for subsequent destruction. However, in this case the torpedoes were spread too thin to expect any appreciable damage with a normal percentage of hits. Even if one or more of the cruisers had received one torpedo hit, there is little assurance that the damage would have prevented her reaching port. The strong escorting force of destroyers would surely have prevented further attacks by the submarine. Had the normal spread (covering 150% target length) been fired at one of the cruisers, the two knot speed error would have been more than covered.

Attack Number Two: At 0539(K) on May 2, 1944, in Lat. 03-23N, Long. 127-56E, after tracking an escorted tanker for six hours, DACE fired five torpedoes from bow tubes. The arrival of daybreak

— page 154 —
15/13/A16-3/(11)    SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHTEEN    Vx
Serial 056    Car of Fleet Post Office
    San Francisco, California,
   23 May 1944

CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) -
Report of Third War Patrol.

From:    The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN.
To:    The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via:    The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.

Subject:    U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Report of Third War Patrol,
    comments on.

1. The remarks of Commander Submarine Division ONE EIGHTY-ONE are concurred in.

2. The casualty to number 1 main generator caused by the binding wire carrying away cut the DACE's available power to three fourths normal for the last half of the patrol. This was keenly felt on the night of 2 May when a long range attack on a valuable target had to be accepted which resulted in no damage, because a more favorable firing position could not be gained due to the small favorable speed increment.

The material condition of all four main engines was very poor, resulting in a great deal of overhaul work by the ship's force.

The efficient work of the ship's personnel in detecting the numerous defects an remecying them is very commendable.

The latest Bureau of Instructions regarding piston rings will be followed as soon as material is available.

3. DACE will be refitted by the Submarine Repair Unit Brisbane. It is anticipated that repairs to No. 1 main generator cannot be effected in normal refit period of two weeks.

4. It is gratifying to note that the morale remains high in spite of material casualties, lack of targets and negative results.

5. The patrol was well conducted and the special mission was successfully performed with commendable thoroughness.

6. It is regretted that no damage was inflicted on the enemy but the spirit and determination displayed should result in inflicting serious damage to the enemy at future patrols.

ELIOT H. BRYANT.

— page 155 —
6 0409
FF12-15(72)/A16 /Th
Serial 0180
CONFIDENTIAL
3rd ENDORSEMENT to
CO DACE Report of
Third War Patrol.
From: The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: The Commander, SEVENTH FLEET.
Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Third War Patrol, comments on.
1. The remarks of the Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN are concurred in.
2. During her Third War Patrol the DACE successfully accomplished two special missions and for a period of five days acted as an escort for SCAMP who had been badly damaged by enemy action. Four days of the patrol were spent under the operational control of Commander Task Force SEVENTY-ONE.
3. The attack upon the enemy task force of 3 cruisers and 4 destroyers while well and aggressively conducted was unsuccessful due primarily to a violation of existing torpedo fire control instructions. A full salvo of six torpedoes at one of the cruisers, to ensure serious damage, is believed to have been indicated in this case.
4. The remarks of the Commanding Officer concerning his contact with friendly task forces on the afternoon and night of 19 April are noted. Information concerning the location of these task forces was not available to the Task Force Commander. Transit of the submarine safety line by submarines was prohibited by CINCFOA on 18 April during passage of major fleet units and the DACE was deliberately held in port during that period.
5. This patrol is designated as "successful" for purposes of award of Combat Insignia.
6. No damage was inflicted upon the enemy.

J. M. HAINES

FILMED

-1-

— page 156 —
FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Lh
Serial 0180
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:  U.S.S. DACE (SS247), Third War Patrol, comments on:

DISTRIBUTION:
Cominoch (Advance copies - 3)
VCNO (Advance copies - 2)
VOPNAV (Op-23c)
Com. 1st Flt.
Com. 2nd Flt.
Com.3rd Flt.
Comsubs 1st Flt.
Comsubs 2nd Flt.
Comsubs 7th Flt.
CSS-4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 and 20.
CSD-53, 81, 82, 181, 182.
CTF-72 War Patrol Summary.
OInC, S/M School, N.L. Conn. (2)
FlT. Radar Unit, Melbourne.
All SS TF-72 (May be taken to sea, but BURN prior to passing 50° South).

CO USS DACE.

F. P. HURRY,
Force Secretary.

- 2 -

— page 157 —
SS247/A16-3/ (04)
U.S.S. DACE (SS247)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
6 August 1944.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Division 181.
       (2) The Commander Submarine Squadron 18.
       (3) The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
       (B) Track chart (CIF-72 only).
       (C) Additional Reports.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the FOURTH war patrol of this vessel conducted in DAVAO Gulf--MINDANAO area during the period June 13, 1944 to August 12, 1944 is submitted herewith.

B.D. CLAGGETT.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY OPC-0000-DATE 5/25/42
DECLASSIFIED

9 01885

Filed 8/6/98

— page 158 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(A) PROLOGUE:
Arrived Brisbane May 12th after completing third war patrol. Held arrival conference that day and was given a refit period of thirty days because of extensive work necessary on No. One Main Generator. May 13th Commander Task Force 72 presented combat insignia and crew departed for leave and recreation. Following major jobs performed:

(1) Renewed armature and field coils in No. One Main Generator.
(2) Overhauled four main engines; replaced all split wiper rings with solid ones to eliminate excessive smoke.
(3) Overhauled auxiliary engine.
(4) Cut down bridge.
(5) Dry docked and touched up bottom.
(6) Welded doubler plates under Main Motor sump tanks.
(7) Installed SN-2 radar detector.

(B) NARRATIVE:
May 28
Officers and crew returned to ship completely happy after two weeks leave in Brisbane, Sydney and environs.

June 9
Made river dive to check for leaks.

June 10
Made deep dive to test hard patch.

June 11 and 12
Loading.

June 13
1330(K)
Underway. Proceeding to SEADLER Harbor in company with H.M.A.S. WHYALLA. Conducting training exercise enroute. Commander Submarine Division 182 acting as training officer.

— page 159 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

June 13 (Cont'd)

Conducted numerous approaches of all types, tracking exercises, evasive tactics, and a day end around. This was the best training period I have experienced in seven patrols. It is far superior to operating daily from a base and advantage should be taken of it at every opportunity. No practice torpedoes were fired. The evening of seventeen June Commander BURLINGAME transferred to escort and we parted company. He for MILNE, we for SEADLER. Conducted training dives and tracking drills during remainder of passage.

June 19

0620(K) Made rendezvous with escort, PC 1130 for passage through VITIAZ Strait.

1215(K) Escort departed.

June 20

0641(K) Made rendezvous with escort YMS 315. Proceeding to SEADLER Harbor.

1500(K) Commenced fueling and taking lub-oil from U.S.S. MINK; upon completion moored alongside U.S.S. EURYALE.

EURYALE made minor repairs including overhauling bridge speakers and renewing north rotor in master gyro.

June 21

1600(K) Underway for patrol in accordance with CombatReport-72's operation order S36-44 of 10 June 1544. Escort SC 748. In departing harbor noted that master gyro was out.

— page 160 —
1830(K) Escort departed.
2150(K) Exchanged recognition signals with DARTER's escort returning to port.
POSIT: SEADIER
June 22
Enroute area.
1412(K) Dived to see if we can get master gyro to settle down. Have been working on it since we got underway.
1641(K) Surfaced. Gyro still out but believe we have found the trouble--an electric lead touching the sensitive element--will have to make additional adjustment to bring gyro level.
1727(K) Fired all guns.
POSIT: 000-33' S FUEL: 2655 MILES: 252 1430-16' E
June 23
Enroute area. Daily training dives and fire control problems.
0415(K) SD contact 18 miles--no reply to IFF challenge. (Plane contact #1).
0450(K) SD contact 8 miles--no reply to IFF challenge. (Plane contact #2).
1600(K) Set clocks back one hour to Zone (-9) ITEM times.

— page 161 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.
---
June 23 (Cont'd)
POSIT: 01-09' N FUEL: 3170 MILES: 342
138°-21' E

June 24
Unless otherwise indicated all times ITEM.
Enroute Area.
0814(T) SD contact 8 miles--submerged. (Plane contact #3).
0843(I) Surfaced.
1402(I) Sighted unidentified two-engine bomber, range 8 miles. (Plane contact #4.) Submerged.
1444(I) Surfaced.
1900(I) Held premier for ACE DACE Movie Theater in Forward Torpedo Room. Title "No Time For Love"--quite appropriate and greatly appreciated.
2100(I) Radar contact on HELEN Island, bearing 184° T., range 15,000 yards.
2300(I) Master gyro back in commission and level--hope it stays that way.
POSIT: 02-30' N FUEL: 2751 MILES: 323
133°-42' E

June 25
Enroute area.
0945(I) Sighted BREAM. Exchanged signals and received dope on day and night air patrols.
1031(I) Sighted plane coming out of clouds headed in, range 6 miles. Looks like a B-17. (Plane contact #5). Submerged and sent out challenge on IFF as we went down--no reply.

-4-

— page 162 —
1117(I) 1219(I) 1822(I) 2030(I) June 26 0030(I) 0553(I) 1251(I) 1628(I) 1842(I) June 27 0557(I)

June 27
Proceeding to western part of area.
Made dawn dive at focal point listed in Intelligence Report, serial 1A-44. Have decided to remain submerged today to see what the air patrols are like. Have not been detected and will endeavor to get their search schedule. Conducting a continuous periscope patrol.

-5-

— page 163 —
1310(I) Have seen no planes; so surfaced.
: 0047(I) Received ComTaskFor-72's serial six extending area. Proceeding to DAVAO Gulf.
: 0331(I) Land on radar, range 95,000 yards. Went to four engines to be in diving position.
: 0537(I) Submerged'16 miles east of Cape ST. AGUSTIN. Proceeding in for patrol south of Cape.
: 1024(I) Sighted float type plane, range 7 miles. (Plane contact #6). Patrolling area.
: 1840(I) Surfaced south of Cape ST. AGUSTIN. Proceeding to run up east coast of MINDANAO during night to search for traffic hugging beach.
: 1420(I) POSIT: 060-10' N FUEL: 2087 MILES: 226 126°-25' E

June 29
: 0145(I) Patroling east coast of MINDANAO. Sighted various lights on beach.
: 0345(I) Radar contact 1950T., range 7,000 yards. (Ship contact #1). Looks small as we can't see anything and the night is clear. Commenced tracking and determined course to be 0800T., speed nine. Two targets both appear small.
: 0422(I) Commenced closing to investigate targets.

— page 165 —
0531(I) Submerged 15 miles south of Cape ST AGUSTIN; proceeding across entrance to gulf.
: 1000(I) Pinging bearing 2400m. Came up for a high periscope look and discovered smoke. (Ship contact #2). Commenced closing for a better look.
: 1012(I) Can now see four puffs of smoke and tops of masts of one ship. Convoy is DAVAO bound. Looks like a total of four ships, speed 12 knots, range 20,000 yards. Came to a normal approach course, went ahead standard with looks every fifteen minutes.
: 1142(I) Gave up chase--convoy is by. We have made standard speed for over an hour now and all I have seen is his tops. Will have to wait for him to come out.
: 1203(I) Lost smoke bearing 3120m.

This entrance is too wide for one boat to guard both sides. I think a better division would be to split it down the center and give one boat each side. This convoy was proceeding up the middle of channel, course 3400. I was guarding the eastern approach.
: 1753(I) Sighted single engine float plane patrolling. (Plane contact #10).
: 1805(I) Sighted single engine fighter or torpedo bomber, distance four miles. (Plane contact #11).

-8-

— page 166 —
1940(I)  Subfaced. Commenced patrolling entrance to gulf.
POST: 06-09' N FUEL: 1445 MILES: 182 126-05' E

July 2
Patrolling entrance to DAVAO Gulf.

0534(I)  Submerged.

0720(I)  Heard pinging bearing 200°T.

0740(I)  J.P. heard screws bearing 210°. Came to normal approach course. Nothing in sight.

0804(I)  Sighted masts bearing 225°T., range estimated 20,000 yards. We are about that far from the track. (Ship contact #3). Came to normal approach course. Running at standard speed with looks every fifteen minutes.

0823(I)  Second target--smaller, looks like an escort head of main target. Targets course is 340°, speed about 15 knots. He is running five miles off the coast and we were caught off base again, patrolling the middle of the channel.

0903(I)  Target is by bearing 280°T. Closest range was about 14,000 yards. He was a medium freighter; king post, stack, king post; escort-ed by two CHILDRIS or PC boats--one ahead and one astern. A tough one to miss.

0959(I)  Unidentified plane sighted, range 15 miles. (Plane contact #12).

1223(I)  Float plane sighted, distance ten miles. (Plane contact #13).

1252(I)  MAVIS type flying boat patrolling Cape ST. AGUSTIN. (Plane contact #14). Perhaps they are running something in that side.

-9-

— page 167 —
1305(I) Land based transport or bomber on northerly course, distance 6 miles. (Plane contact #15).
: 1445(I) Float type plane bearing 320°T., distance 12 miles. (Plane contact #16).
: 1510(I) Another float plane patrolling western shore of gulf. Perhaps something is coming in. (Plane contact #17).
: 1520(I) Sound hears pinging to south--looks good as we are only eight miles off beach. He can't get by this time.
: 1540(I) Pinging drawing right, came to normal approach at standard speed.
: 1626(I) Sighted mast and stack, distance 15,000 yards, angle on the bow large--we are well off track. (Ship contact #4). Continued in at standard speed.
: 1646(I) Range now 10,000 yards, angle on bow 70° starboard. His speed 7 knots. Target looks like a medium, engines aft tanker. Two small escorts, one well ahead and other astern. After escort pinging. Set up looks good. We are just about holding our own on bearing. Will get in for 110° track and about 2,000 yard torpedo run.
: 1705(I) Range 5,500 yards. Still holding bearings. Periscope is foggy, sea very smooth, cannot see him too well, but he now looks like a small tanker. Made ready all tubes.
: 1726(I) Slowed down for final set up before firing. Raised periscope expecting a tanker at about 2,500 yards, and found it to be a small net tender with engines aft, range 500 yards.

-10-

— page 169 —
1230(I) Sighted two more killer type patrol vessels following two miles astern of original outfit. I don't understand this; it doesn't seem to be anti submarine search as they are steaming in column and all pinging at various times. Only explanation I can see is that they are going to a patrol station or to pick up a convoy to escort in. Of course, it may be a sucker's game to get us over to this side while the real stuff runs up the other side.

1335(I) Sighted JAKE type plane patrolling. (Plane contact #19). Range 8 miles, bearing 210°T.

1538(I) Sighted MAVIS type plane bearing 280°T., range 11 miles. (Plane contact #20).

1545(I) Sighted JAKE again. (Plane contact #21).

1655(I) Sighted two-engine land based bomber. (Plane contact #22).

1810(I) Sighted smoke bearing 245°T., going into harbor. Our position 17,000 yards from beach, didn't see ship so assumed it is one of our patrol boats returning.

1940(I) Surfaced and commenced night patrol of entrance.

POST: 060-07° N FUEL: 1500 MILES: 180 125°-47' E

July 4

Patrolling entrance of DAVAO Gulf.

0534(I) Submerged for day patrol.

0858(I) Sighted two-engine bomber, range 3,000 yards. (Plane contact #23).

1520(I) Sighted two MAVIS type planes, range 12 miles. (Plane contact #24).

-12-

— page 170 —
1944(I)  Surface and began night patrol--usual beat across entrance.
: 2010(I)  S.J. contact 24,000 yards, bearing 0180T. Identified as plane with lights. This full moon makes me feel awfully naked to night flying planes. (Plane contact #25).
: 1250-50' E  Noted radar interference on S.J. and also on radar detector. Proved to be caused by hot air blower that was being used to dry out flooded T.B.T.

POIST: 060-03' N FUEL: 1460 MILES: 180
1250-50' E

July 5
: 0534(I)  Submerged for day patrol.
: 0858(I)  Sighted float type plane 2830T., 13 miles, patrolling beach. (Plane contact #26).
: 1151(T)  Sighted two more float type planes. (Plane contact #27 and #28).
: 1157(I)  Heard distant explosion. May be CERO.
: 1246(I)  Sighted smoke bearing 2100T., drawing left. Came to normal approach and commenced tracking.
: 1328(I)  After running at standard speed for ten minutes between second and third observation could not find smoke; so changed course to his true bearing, 2000T. Never saw smoke again. Must have been a small boat on a southeasterly course.
: 1354(I)  Sighted plane bearing 2700T., range eight miles. (Plane contact #29).

-13-

— page 171 —
1940(I)  U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.
: July 5 (Cont'd)
: 1940(I)  Surfaced for night patrol. Patrolled along east coast of Cape ST. AGUSTIN.
: July 6
: 0529(I)  Patrolling Cape ST. AGUSTIN.
: 0855(I)  Submerged east of Cape ST. AGUSTIN. Have decided to patrol eastern side of channel for a change.
: 1006(I)  Sighted JAKE type plane, range 12 miles. (Plane contact #31).
: 1015(I)  Another JAKE, range 8 miles. (Plane contact #32).
: 1022(I)  Still another JAKE, range 7 miles--they are out in force today. (Plane contact #33).
: 1115(I)  Sighted JAKE type plane, range 8 miles. (Plane contact #34).
: 1520(I)  Closed Cape ST. AGUSTIN to look for radar installations and take pictures. No indications of radar. Took pictures of light and point from a position 3,000 yards, 260°T, from light house. No indication of gun emplacements. Only thing observed was light and house; telephone poles in back of house may have been for radio antenna. Native village noted further up coast. Shore very steep at this point.
: 1940(I)  Surfaced.

— page 172 —
2006(I) S.J. contact on aircraft, range 21,500 yards. Aircraft observed from bridge carrying lights. (Plane contact #35). Patrolled across entrance of gulf and back, and then again patrolled coast of ST. AGUSTIN.

POSIT: 06-10' N FUEL: 1405 MILES: 203 126-06' E

July 7

Patrolling ST. AGUSTIN.

0528(I) Submerged for another day's patrol of eastern half of channel.

0710(I) Heard pinging bearing 325°T. Commenced closing.

0735(I) Have smoke. Looks like he is coming around point. (Ship contact #6). Commenced tracking and closing point at standard speed.

0740(I) Can see masts bearing 320°, range about 15,000 yards. Looks like an escort as I have to come up to 60 feet to see him. Hope he is leading something. Came to normal approach and proceeded in.

0755(I) Can see two other puffs of smoke to left of escort. They haven't rounded point yet.

0756(I) to Three depth charges not very close. Thought they might have come from plane but don't see any. Escort can now be made out as a PC--he is at a range of about 5,000 yards. He must think he has something. Continued closing point.

0801(I) Escort has turned toward us, angle on bow zero, range about 5,000 yards.

0805(I) One of other contacts can now be heard pinging. Looks like an anti submarine sweep, or perhaps they know we are here.

-15-

— page 173 —
0807(I)  Another depth charge closer this time. PC is at about 3,000 yards still comming in. Changed course to left to avoid at periscope depth.

: 0809(I)  Two more charges.

: 0830(I)  Can make out three vessels now--all AS; one PC, one killer type patrol, and the other looks like the same coastal freighter we saw the other day. They are all pinging and have fanned out; two on port bow, one on starboard. There is indication of a fourth pinging, but have not been able to see him. Looks as if we were picked up coming in this morning. I submerged closer to the point than previously--9 miles. They are pretty definitely searching the area south of the point as if they suspected something. I do not think it is an anti-submarine sweep ahead of a convoy or task force because they are searching this particular area rather than continuing on. I don't believe they have picked me up as yet. I am now seven miles south of the point. I will close in case it is a sweep ahead of something coming in.

: 0908(I)  Again the original PC has a zero angle, range 6,000 yards.

: 0912(I)  Commenced changing course to avoid PC at periscope depth.

: 0920(I)  Range on PC now 2,000 yards, angle on bow still zero. They seem to have a pretty good idea that I am here. I have one on each beam and one ahead. Constant bearing for last ten minutes on coastal type vessel. PC is definitely on the beam; so decided to ease her down and see if I can loose them.

-16-

— page 174 —
0924(I) PC heard to pass across stern. Then he appeared to turn to come in again. No drops. Guess this eight degree gradient threw him off.

: 1014(I) They seem to have lost us, so started up.

: 1045(T) At periscope depth, all clear. Commenced closing entrance again. I am now 10 miles south of the point.

: 1222(I) Sighted KATE type plane bearing 130°T., range 6 miles. (Plane contact #36).

: 1725(I) Sighted float type plane bearing 200°T., range 6 miles. (Plane contact #37).

: 1940(I) Surfaced. Patrolling entrance of gulf.

POST: 06°-15'N FUEL: 1410 MILES: 177 126°-10'E

: 0316(I) Radar interference bearing 240°T., looks like CERO.

: 0535(I) Submerged. Will patrol center of channel today.

: 0841(I) Sighted plane bearing 135°T., range 10 miles. (Plane contact #38).

-17-

— page 175 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.
---
July 8 (Cont'd)
0847(I)    Sighted land based plane bearing north, range 9 miles.  (Plane contact #39).
1000(I)    T.D.C. out of commission.  Burned out training follow-up head.  No spare--trying to repair same.
1515(I)    Sighted plane bearing 2850T., range 6 miles.  (Plane contact #40).
1640(I)    Sighted land based transport plane bearing 3500T., range 5 miles.  (Plane contact #41).
1725(I)    Sighted plane bearing 2100T., range 6 miles.  (Plane contact #42).
2008(I)    Surfaced.
POSIT:  06-20' N    FUEL: 1630    MILES: 184
    1250-57' E

July 9
Patrolling Cape ST. AGUSTIN.
0030(I)    T.D.C. back in commission after much hard work, ingenuity and skill on the part of Lt.(jg) A.A. EBEL, PARDEN, L.B., CEM, and WILLIAMS, W.O., FC2C.
0525(I)    Submerged proceeding to point five miles northeast of ST. AGUSTIN for day patrol.
1145(I)    Sighted smoke bearing 2400T.  (Ship contact #7).  Observed this vessel's actions for over an hour.  His smoke was coming out in big puffs.  He would make smoke for about five minutes and secure for about ten.  It had all the indications of a mechanical smoke maker and appeared to be a trap to draw us off to the east.  I did not follow which later proved very fortunate.

-18-

— page 176 —
1401(I)  Have pinging bearing 3580T. (Ship contact #8). Changed course to 3580T. At present I am patrolling 5.5 miles off the beach and in an excellent position to intercept target.

: 1425(I)  Taking frequent looks with lots of periscope, but target is not in sight. Poor visibility, with haze over land. A target close to the beach will be hard to see. Bearing is slowly drawing left so came left to course 3450. Called away tracking party.

: 1435(I)  Pinging is getting louder. Sound has picked up screws and still there is nothing in sight! Bearing continues to draw left so decided to close beach some more. Am now five miles off shore and can not see how a target of any size can remain unseen. Cannot wait longer so came left to 2700 and headed in even though closing the beach may prove costly. A strong current is setting on the shore and if the target is still far away or comes left to round Cape I may not be able to get out to sea against the current.

: 1447(I)  Closing beach at six knots. Slowed. Sighted CHIDORI type torpedo boat, range 3,000 yards followed by large AP, range 3,500 yards, bearing 200 relative, angle on bow 700 port. Another Chidori or mine layer about 1,000 yards astern of target. Came left immediately for 1100 port track in order to gain time. Ordered all tubes made ready and went to battle stations. Two more quick set ups gave a speed of 12 1/2 knots, course 1750T; torpedo run will be 31.00 yards, but do not have any opportunity to close at this late date. The Japs had come from out of nowhere and the organization of the ship was put to a severe test in meeting the emergency. Not a man was found wanting, for without confusion battle stations were manned, tubes made ready and at

— page 177 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

July 9 (Cont'd)

1452-28(I) Five minutes after sighting the enemy commenced firing a six torpedo salvo 150°/o divergent spread, 110° track, torpedo run 3175 yards using continuous bearing method. Gyro angle 358.5. Fired two. Gave left full rudder to keep the gyro angles small. Gyro angle 357; torpedo run 3,200. Fired three; gyro angle 357; torpedo run 3,150. Fired four; gyro angle 353; torpedo run 3,225. Fired five; gyro angle 352; torpedo run 3,300. Fired six; gyro angle 000.5; torpedo run 3,250. Torpedoes were observed to run hot, straight and normal making much smoke. Why they were not seen in this glassy sea I will never know.

Continued swinging left at standard speed bringing stern tubes to bear on after escort.

1454-52(I) First torpedo hit. Loud explosion. Periscope was just being lowered at the time. It was raised immediately and much smoke observed on target. Neither target or escorts had changed course.

1455-10(I) Low order explosion; either a low order detonation or an explosion on target.

1455-43(I) Another heavy torpedo explosion.

1456(I) Leading escort turning toward.

1456-06(I) Another low order explosion.

1456-35(I) Leading escort has a zero angle on bow, bone in teeth, range 4,000 yards, decided it was time to go deep. Took another look at target and

— page 178 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

July 9 (Cont'd)

observed her with an angle on the bow of 180°, listing to port, surrounded in smoke, headed for the beach which was 3,000 yards away. After escort had signal flags flying but as yet had not altered course appreciably. Set up on him was unfavorable; sixty degree gyro, long torpedo run so did not fire.

1458-29(I) Two explosions--sounds like internal explosion on target.

1502-25(I) First pattern of eight depth charges--pretty close, but above.

1505-30(I) Another good pattern of six, still above.

1507-20(I) Five in this pattern. They are rattling the boat, but no damage so far. Am steering a southerly course taking advantage of the current. Changing course constantly making two-thirds speed. Wish I had more than this one degree gradient.

1508-35(I) Two more depth charges.

1508-55(I) Two more. We have at least slowed him down. Escorts seem to be making alternate runs using both pinging and listening.

1509-45(I) Three more charges.

1516-25(I) Another one not close this time.

1517(I) One more fairly well off. This two knot current is a big help.

1517-30(I) Two distant explosions probably on target. Both escorts are still pinging but appear to be further away. Thought we had lost them, but was wrong again.

-21-

— page 179 —
1527-50(I) to 'Received ten more in close patterns of two
1528-30(I) or three with a single here and there.

Both vessels continued to search but we seem to have lost them--their pinging has become progressively weaker,' so at

Commenced coming up to 'periscope depth.

At periscope depth--all clear, but still have pinging to north. Secured from depth charge and silent running. Continued opening island to surface.

This attack proves again that in order to see ships running close to the shore line you must be practically on the beach. I was patrolling five miles off the beach, trying to cover as much area as possible, and if it had not been for the escorts pinging I probably would not have seen this target until too late to shoot. Target was searched for with ten feet of periscope exposed twelve minutes prior to picking him up at 3,000 yards range. Fortunately the interval between observations was used to close the coast at standard speed or we would have been out of range.

Target was large A.P. of modern construction with two kingposts forward of stack and probably two aft. There was much superstructure; length by periscope formula was 600 feet. Height of stack by ranging on CHIDORI and comparing it with range to target was between 65 and 70 feet. The closest resemblance in O.N.I. 208j is the PRESIDENT HARRISON, page 43; however, his kingposts were not as high as those shown in the pictures. Two positive hits were obtained and one timed hit resulted in a low order detonation. Target was last seen surrounded in smoke headed for the beach which was 3,000 yards away. The beach at this

— page 181 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.
:  ---
:  July 11
:  Patroling west of SARANGANI Island.
:  ---
:  0320(I) Radar contact, range 7,000 yards, bearing 306°T. Identified by sight as a small patrol boat. (Ship contact #10). Avoided.
:  ---
:  0520(I) Submerged southwest of SARANGANI Bay. Will investigate bay today.
:  ---
:  Investigated entrance to bay, results negative.
:  ---
:  1940(I) Surfaced in rain.
:  ---
:  POSIT: 05°-46' N FUEL: 1319 MILES: 198
:  125°-05' E
:  ---
:  July 12
:  Patroling west of SARANGANI Pass.
:  ---
:  0520(I) Submerged south of SARANGANI Bay. Will look in again today.
:  ---
:  0757(I) Picked up pinging bearing 025°T. Headed toward it.
:  ---
:  0842(I) Sighted smoke bearing 038°T. Came to normal approach at standard speed, and commenced tracking.
:  ---
:  0950(I) Closed to 4,000 yards and identified targets as five small craft similar to the "DAVAO Sound School". (Ship contact #11). Largest was an engines-aft-affair of about 400 tons. Looked like an oil barge. Believe these boats are running supplies from SARANGANI to DAVAO or vice versa.
:  ---
:  1000(I) Sighted sail boat bearing 150°T., range 1 mile. (Ship contact #12). Avoided and pat-rolled to south.
:  ---
:  ---

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— page 182 —
1615(I) Sighted small fishing vessel or barge bearing 1170T., range 3,000 yards. Avoided. (Ship contact #13).

: 1821(I) Sighted two small boats bearing 0570T., range 5,000 yards. (Ship contact #14).

: 1943(I) Surfaced. Patrolled to south of SARANGANI.

POSIT: 050-35' N FUEL: 1242 MILES: 185 1250-13' E

July 13
Patrolling western approach to DAVAO.

0519(I) Submerged--western approach to DAVAO.

1000(I) Sighted smoke bearing 3490T. Commenced tracking.

1024(I) Two small craft id +1fied as a small engines-aft net tender and small patrol boat--course 2050T., speed five knots. (Ship contact #15).

1340(I) Sound contact bearing 2500T. Identified as three more small craft proceeding north. (Ship contact #16).

1400(I) Sighted float type plane bearing 3280T., range 3 miles. (Plane contact #44).

1940(I) Surfaced. Will make a sweep to south to-night at high speed in order to cover approach to DAVAO from that direction.

POSIT: 050-56' N FUEL: 1350 MILES: 178 1250-45' E

July 14
Making search to south at four engine speed.

-25-

— page 183 —
0535(I) Submerged in western part of entrance. Will patrol five miles off coast looking for traffic coming up that side.

: 1013(I) Sighted smoke bearing 3280T. Began closing.

: 1145(I) Identified as two of usual spit-kits on southerly course, speed five knots. (Ship contact #17).

: 1350(I) Sighted float type plane bearing 2300T., range 8 miles. (Plane contact #45).

: 1945(I) Surfaced. Radar interference to eastward; probably the DARTER.

POSIT: 050-55' N FUEL: 2771 MILES: 206 125-45' E

July 15

: 0531(I) Submerged for patrol west of SARANGANI Island.

: 1946(I) Surfaced. Took a turn up to SARANGANI Bay, then a sweep around SARANGANI Island.

POSIT: 05021' N FUEL: 1329 MILES: 173 12521' E

July 16

: 0323(I) Radar interference bearing 2900T., probably the CERO.

: 0450(I) Radar contact bearing 2800T., range 11,000 yards. Radar interference also. It looks like CERO, but began tracking. (Ship contact #18).

-26-

— page 184 —
0525(I) Radar contact disappeared confirming belief it was CERO.
: 0532(I) Submerged 12 miles south of the entrance to SARANGANI Bay.
: 0803(I) Sighted smoke of two small vessels bearing 100T., range seven miles, course south. (Ship contact #19).
: 1020(I) In entrance of SARANGANI Bay. Took picture of both sides from position 2½ miles off.
: 1313(I) Sighted unidentified plane bearing 020T., range 12 miles. (Plane contact #46).
: 1942(I) Surfaced. Will take another turn around SARANGANI Island tonight.
: 1950(I) Radar interference to west; probably CERO-tried to close to see if he has any dope, but he is apparently steaming west.
FOSIT: 050-47°N FUEL: 1564 MILES: 183 1250-08°E

July 17
: Patrolling entrance to DAVAO Gulf.
: Radar interference to westward; probably CERO.
: Submerged twelve miles south of entry to SARANGANI Bay; will patrol entrance again.
: Sighted land based fighter bearing 324T., range 6 miles. (Plane contact #47).
: Sighted four small craft similar to picture of "Crab Catcher" in O.N.I. 208J, range

-27-

— page 185 —
4,000 yards, course 180°. (Ship contact #20).

1937(I) Surfaced.

2134(I) Received ComTaskFor-72's serial 35 change of area assignment--proceeded to new area.

POSIT: 05-48' N FUEL: 1207 MILES: 171 125-03' E

July 18

Enroute to LEBAK harbor for submerged patrol.

0545(I) Submerged twelve miles northwest of Port LEBAK.

Patrolled within two miles of shore; investigated the entire harbor. Nothing there except village and radio tower.

1944(I) Surfaced. Will patrol north along coast, Took sweep in to COTABATO and then patrolled around to PAGADIAN.

POSIT: 06-34' N FUEL: 2015 MILES: 200 123-59' E

Jul. 19

Patrolling coast of MINDANAO.

0525(I) Submerged two miles off entrance to COTABOTO. Patrolled into POLLOC Bay--no ships present. Numerous sail boats in sight throughout day.

1946(I) Surfaced.

2036(I) Commenced search to south at four engine speed.

POSIT: 07-18' N FUEL: 1440 MILES: 186 124-06' E

-28-

— page 186 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

July 20

Searching traffic lanes between DAVAO and ZAMBOANGA.

0530(I) Submerged eight miles bearing 285°T from Port LEBAK.

0605(I) While coming up from deep submergence sound picked up echo ranging, bearing 105°T. We are on 105°T. heading for LEBAK so came up immediately to periscope depth, but could see nothing as it was still twilight with much haze over land. Went to battle stations --made tubes ready.

0605-  Sound reports pinging dead ahead and on both port and starboard bows. Pinging is drawing both left and right so can not be sure whether to turn north or south to intercept. Assumed that the escorts were making a sweep of harbor entrance so continued to close the beach in the direction of the harbor while awaiting a definite indication of convoy's intention. Periscope still on help, but sound is providing excellent information considering the fact that there are three escorts pinging continuously. Sound now reports that the bearing on the escort dead ahead and that on the starboard bow is drawing right. He further reports that the escort on the port bow seems to be doubling back, and that its bearing is also beginning to draw right. Estimated that the first two escorts were patrolling ahead and the third escort was patrolling astern of main target or targets. Confirmed my estimate when upon telling sound to search for a target between leading and after escorts soundman reported heavy screws in that direction. Convoy is definitely going south. Came right to normal approach course and speeded up to close.

0624(I) Have smoke bearing 106°T. (Ship contact #21).

--29--

— page 187 —
0632(I) Can make out one target now. It is a PC, bearing 132°T., angle on bow 80° starboard, range about 8,000 yards. This is leading escort.

0637(I) Now have target. A medium tanker or engines-aft freighter, mast, kingpost, stack, mast. Bearing 115°T., range 7,000 yards, angle on bow 90° starboard. There are two escorts a-head and one astern. All escorts are PC boats and all are echo ranging continuously. Continued on normal approach course at standard speed.

0647(I) Target is by, bearing 124°T., angle on bow 100° starboard, range 8,000 yards. After escort is passing abeam at 4,000 yards. Will track target to get speed, open coast, surface, and make end around. Target came out of Port LEBAK and headed south hugging coast. He apparently passed within four to six thousand yards of us while it was still too dark to see. If he had started a half hour later we would have had a perfect set up.

0723(I) Changed course to 230° to open coast. Still tracking.

0735(I) Sighted two float type planes patrolling over target. (Plane contact #48).

0738(I) Heard seven distant depth charges from target group.

0840(I) Smoke is drawing to right. Changed course toward to determine if he was going to sea rather than hugging coast as previously estimated.

0920(I) Smoke out of sight. He still seems to be hugging coast. Continued opening beach at two-thirds speed.

-30-

— page 188 —
1107(I)  Surfaced 9 miles off coast. While taking a periscope search prior to surfacing observed a small motor sampan. Decided it would take too long to clear him so surfaced anyway. (Ship contact #22). He has no radio so decided against delaying chase to sink him with gunfire. It will take him over an hour to reach the coast and by that time we will be well away.

Will make end around keeping 20 to 25 miles from coast. This will cover all jousres from hugging beach to 220° and speed up to eight knots. Do not consider it possible to keep target in sight with coast background without being discovered by plane escort.

1215(I)  Sighted sail boat bearing 257°T., range 10 miles. (Ship contact #23).

1400(I)  Sighted smoke bearing 035°T.; possibly target.

1529(I)  Sighted MAVIS type plane bearing 050°T. Patrolling on southerly course. (Plane contact #49).

1532(I)  MAVIS reversed course.

1535(I)  MAVIS patrolling on westerly course.

1538(I)  MAVIS turned toward.

1541(I)  Submerged. MAVIS still headed toward, range 12 miles. Do not believe he has seen us yet. Submerged to avoid detection.

1558(I)  Surfaced and continued end around.

1640(I)  Sighted smoke close to entrance of SARANGANI Bay. (Ship contact #24).

1655(I)  Can now see bridge of patrol boat apparently entering SARANGANI, at

-31-

— page 189 —
1657(I)  Submerged twelve miles south of SARANGANI. Continued closing coast at five knots.
: 1937(T)  Surfaced four miles off coast. Will patrol west along coast. Do not see how we could have missed him unless he speeded up considerably. Plot checked him at five knots, T.D.C. at seven. This is a tough one to miss after the end around.
: 0635(I)  Sighted sail boat. (Ship contact #25).
: 2005(I)  Surfaced six miles west of Port LEBAK. Will patrol ZAMBOANGA--DAVAO route tonight.
: 0538(I)  Submerged seven miles southwest of Port LEBAK.
: 1940(I)  Surfaced.
: 2100(I)  Received ComTaskFor-72's serial 41 extending patrol twelve days. Proceeded south to patrol ZAMBOANGA--CELEBES routes.

-32-

— page 190 —
06-35' N
FUEL: 1449 MILES: 175
1230-58' E

July 23
Patrolling ZAMBOANGA-CELEBES route. Will conduct surface patrol--weather permitting.

0611(I) Made dawn trim dive.

0650(I) Surfaced.

1018(I) Sighted BETTY type plane bearing 2000T., range 7 miles. (Plane contact #50). Submerged to avoid detection.

1053(I) Surfaced.

1144(I) Sighted three BETTYs bearing 2100T., range 7 miles. (Plane contact #51). Submerged to avoid detection. Low hanging clouds and passing rain squalls are unsuitable for surface patrol.

1928(I) Surfaced.

POST: 06-13' N
FUEL: 2113 MILES: 238
1230-43' E

July 24
Patrolling ZAMBOANGA-CELEBES route.

0611(I) Submerged. Low hanging clouds and rain squalls.

1503(I) Surfaced for sun line.

1510(I) Submerged.

1928(I) Surfaced. Patrolling ZAMBOANGA-CELEBES-DAVAO routes.

-33-

— page 191 —
0605(I)  Submerged; patrolling ZAMBOANGA-CELEBES route.
: 1246(I)  Surfaed for sun line and for a surface observation.
: 1300(I)  Submerged.
: 1415(I)  Surfaed for sun line and for a surface observation.
: 1422(I)  Submerged.
: 1433(I)  Surfaed for sun line and for a surface observation.
: 1436(I)  Submerged.
: 1657(I)  Surfaed for sun line and for a surface observation.
: 1700(I)  Submerged.
: 1918(I)  Surfaed; patrolling ZAMBOANGA-CELEBES-DAVAO routes.
: 0608(I)  Made dawn dive.

July 24 (Cont'd)
July 25
July 26

— page 192 —
0615(I) Sound reports echo ranging bearing 160°T. Came to periscope depth but unable to see anything as it is still twilight. Decided to remain submerged until I can get a good periscope look.

: 0650(I) It is now light--nothing in sight through periscope. Surfaced to see what the score is.

: 0651(I) Sighted smoke bearing 220°T., distance 20 miles. Changed course to 220°T., and commenced closing. (Ship contact #26).

: 0657(I) Sighted aircraft (BETTY) bearing 355°T., range 7 miles; apparently headed for convoy. (Plane contact #52).

: 0658(I) Submerged to avoid detection. This was the first of eight dives made in order to track convoy and still avoid detection. Later three more planes joined convoy providing a very effective air umbrella. Contact was maintained throughout day by keeping smoke in sight through periscope. As soon as smoke was lost we would surface and close. Planes were in sight at practically all times searching an area ahead and astern, and about twenty miles each side of convoy. An excellent job by the lookouts was the only thing that kept us from being sighted. The movements of each plane, sometimes all four in sight at one time was followed, and whenever they started a search toward DACE we submerged; and, start the cycle over again. Even though the planes were a mental hazard they were also very helpful in as much as they were nearly always in sight and helped locate the convoy at times when smoke was lost.

— page 193 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

July 26 (Cont'd)

0735(I)    Surfaced to regain contact.

0755(I)    Sighted another BENTTY joining patrol bearing 200T., distance 8 miles. (Plane contact #53). Submerged to avoid detection.

0919(I)    Sighted two more planes (BETTYS) joining the convoy. (Plane contact #54).

0955(I)    Surfaced to regain contact.

1025(I)    Submerged to avoid air sweep astern.

1234(I)    Surfaced.

1307(I)    Submerged to avoid plane.

1407(I)    Surfaced.

1440(I)    Submerged to avoid plane.

1515(I)    Surfaced.

1529(I)    Submerged to avoid plane.

1618(I)    Surfaced.

1717(I)    Submerged. Observed two of/planes returning to MINDANAO.

1754(I)    Surfaced.

1858(I)    Submerged to avoid plane. It is getting dark rapidly; expect this to be last dive as planes should depart soon.

1945(I)    Surfaced to regain contact. Commenced chase on four main engines. Sky overcast, visibility good. Convoy has been tracked on a westerly to northwesterly course, speed about eight knots. Have written three contact reports only to get a change in course each time I was

— page 194 —
2042(I) Radar contact 2950m, ranges 21,000 yards. Commenced tracking and gain position ahead. Radar which has consistently given excellent performance seems to be acting up tonight. Ranges don't seem to be as strong as usual, and we are having trouble getting accurate bearings.

: 2042-2313(I) Tracking and working up ahead. Radar indicates three ships in convoy with numerous escorts. Ships are zig zagging on base course 2850 with thirty degree zigs each side. Length of legs is ten minutes. Speed nine and one-quarter knots. Sent contact report on 2880 KC's.

: 2313(I) Have now worked my way up on the starboard bow and have determined the formation to be as follows: three ships in column with six escorts; two ahead, two eastern and one on each beam. Starboard escort is patrolling on station; keeping from two to four thousand yards abreast. Leading escorts are 2,000 yards ahead. Conditions don't look promising from ahead so decided to drop back on quarter and see what the situation looks like from that angle.

: 2348(I) Attack from quarter doesn't look good either as the after escorts are keeping well closed up. They have these babies surrounded like a picket fence. Decided that best bet is from the starboard bow--ships are zig zagging simultaneously which throws the escorts out of position at times, also bunches targets so that it presents a better shot. Background is best for star-

-37-

— page 196 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

July 27 (Cont'd)

other two looked older. Near escort appears to be a large PC.

Continued in taking ranges and bearing on both target and escort. Have had a constant bearing on escort for several minutes, range is now 2,400 yards so took last set up on target, changed course ten degrees to right to get a zero angle and at

0049-17(I) Commenced firing a salvo of six torpedoes at target 650 starboard track; 3,800 yard torpedo run; depth set six feet; constant bearings from T.B.T. Total spread 4°.

0049-27(I) Gyro angle 013. Fired two; gyro angle 007; torpedo run 3720.

0049-36(I) Fired three; gyro angle 008; torpedo run 3550.

0049-51(I) Fired four; gyro angle 008; torpedo run 3550.

0049-59(I) Fired five; gyro angle 007; torpedo run 3320.

Radar had been shifted to escort at commence firing and range had now closed to 1,400 yards. Gave right full rudder, all ahead full.

0050-07(I) Fired six; gyro angle 006; torpedo run 3260.

Bridge reported escort turning toward, angle on bow 30 starboard. Range was now 1,250 yards so cleared bridge and at

0051(I) D:ved to avoid bei: rammed. Do not have time to steady up on course to get bearing of new target, and am swinging too fast for a bearing now, so will fire stern tubes with same set up. First two targets are only a ship length apart and second target is only a quarter ship length ahead of third. Hope the spread gives us hits in other ships too. Range to escort as radar went under was 1,150 yards; last observed angle on bow zero.

-39-

— page 197 —
0051-37(I)  Fired seven, 650' starboard track; 2,200 yard torpedo run, depth set six feet. Gyro angle 220.
: 0051-46(I)  Fired eight; gyro angle 213; torpedo run 2210.
: 0051-55(I)  Fired nine; gyro angle 209; torpedo run 2180.
: 0051-57(I)  Heard explosion. Hit from bow tubes.
: 0052-05(I)  Fired ten; gyro angle 204; torpedo run 2250.

Several explosions heard as we were going down, but due to noise of clearing bridge and diving, times were not recorded.

One loud explosion; definitely a torpedo. These Mark 18's make more noise than a 14.

Another torpedo hit.

First pattern of 10 depth charges. I didn't know these fellows could get off a pattern that large; perhaps two escorts made a combined run.

Commenced evading at deep submergence--all escorts joined in the hunt; screws and pinging were all around the dial. Evaded at constant speed on easterly course. I don't believe they ever had good contact as none of the charges dropped after the first salvo were very close.

Ten more depth charges in one pattern of four and three patterns of two.

Three distant explosions heard in direction of target group. Either very distant depth charges or explosions on target.

-40-

— page 198 —
0130(I) Have only three escorts with us now; they are searching madly--pinging all around. The other three were heard to fade out in the direction of the attack position.

: 0300(I) Have left escorts behind. Can still hear their pinging and at times their screws, but they sound far off so started up. Plan to surface and give chase.

: 0325(I) Surfaced with nothing on radar. Still have pinging and occasional screws in direction of attack position. Upon surfacing a very strong smell of oil was noted. Have not had any oil leaks previously and none noted after that incident so perhaps it was from target.

: 0345(I) Radar contact bearing 240°, range 12,000 yards. Closed to investigate and found it was our three escorts. They are at the scene of the attack. Do not understand why they would leave three escorts here unless it was to protect a cripple or search for survivors. Made a complete circle at a range of 10 to 12 thousand yards; plotted them and found that they were milling around on all courses at speed from stopped to seven knots. No sign of convoy or cripple.

After working around escorts took a sweep to south and then east with no sight of convoy. Guess the other three escorts and remains of convoy must have proceeded west through island group.

: 0600(I) Submerged and headed north where we still have pinging.

Although all I have to base my claims for damage on this attack is three timed torpedo hits with several other untimed explosions at the proper time for torpedo hits; I believe we sank at least one ship of this convoy.

— page 199 —
1228(I)  Sighted PC boat bearing 3550T., searching on various courses. Avoided. (Ship contact #27).

: 1310(I)  Sighted oil drum.

: 1321(I)  Sighted plane bearing 0450T., range 3 miles. (Plane contact #55).

: 1806(I)  Sighted PC boat bearing 0370T., searching on various courses. (Ship contact #28). There are definitely two of them out here as we still have pinging from the other one on bearing 2700T. This is about 10 miles south of position of last night's attack. Looks as if they are annoyed.

: 1950(I)  Surfaecd. Started return to own area.

POSIT: 05-24' N FUEL: 2745 MILES: 215
1210-43' E

July 28
Returning to area.

0610(I)  Submerged in western part of area.

-42-

— page 201 —
1330(I) Can see tops of mess-apparently a single ship coming up coast in close to the shoals. Went to battle stations. Continued closing.

: 1402(I) This reminds me of the old sub school days. We have a two thousand ton engines aft coastal freighter, straight course, speed 5½ knots. We are 1,200 yards from track--he is coming on nicely. Started coming right for a stern tube shot. Have a good view of target now--he is 250 feet long by telemeter scale.

: 1410-52(I) Commenced firing salvo of four torpedoes with a three degree divergent spread; torpedo run 2410 yards; gyro angle 179°; depth four feet.

: 1411-10(I) Fired eight; gyro 178°, torpedo run 2430 yards.

: 1411-20(I) Fired nine; gyro 179°, torpedo run 2450 yards.

: 1411-32(I) Fired ten; gyro 175.5°, torpedo run 2530 yards.

: 1412-20(I) Heavy explosion quite close; broke several light bulbs; knocked 2 MC speaker off conning tower overhead; shock boat considerably. Took look at target no hit; believed it to be an aircraft bomb so struted deer.

: 1414-05(I) Torpedo explosion.

: 1418-44(I) Distant explosion; probably torpedo hitting beach.

: 1419(I) Started coming up to periscope depth.

: 1423(I) At periscope depth; all clear. Came up to 60 feet and target is not in sight. This is just nine minutes after timed torpedo hit. In that time target could not travel more than

— page 202 —
1510(I) Commenced opening beach clearing area.
: 1945(I) Surfaced. Petrolling ZAMBOANGA-DAVAO route.
: POST: 060-13' N FUEL: 1060 MILES: 154 124°-05' E

August 1
: Petrolling ZAMBOANGA-DAVAO route.
: 0535(I) Submerged seven miles southwest of Port LEBAK. Commenced closing beach.
: 0625(I) Heard echo ranging bearing 010°T.
: 0630(I) Sighted smoke leaving LEBAK--continued closing beach. Commenced tracking. (Ship contact #31). Convoy is clearing Port LEBAK. There are four escorts echo ranging. I can see leading one--he looks small; another killer type is taking a search to seaward. Can not see target yet--just smoke near point.
: 0700(I) Set up is now clear. We have one medium or small AK with four escorts. Target is hugging

-45-

— page 203 —
0701(I) Sighted float type plane patrolling over convoy. (Plane contact #56).

: 0714(I) Leading escort--the PT is now lying to with 100' starboard angle on the bow. He is about three thousand yards away, 200' on my starboard bow. He suspects something as he is alternately listening and pinging in this direction. He doesn't have us yet as he is still searching on both sides of our beam.

Range is now 4,800 yards, speed checks 9 by both T.D.C. and plct. I am going to have a long torpedo run, but am afraid to speed up because the PT is listening. Still have pinging and screws on port beam, and still cannot see anything. Sound conditions are excellent, we heard the target's screws at over 6,000 yards.

: 0720(I) Made ready four bow tubes.

: 0723(I) Swinging left 50' to bring gyro angles to zero. Problem is checking nicely--target course 160°, speed 9 knots. Torpedo run is going to be long but that will have to be accepted.

--46--

— page 204 —
0724-15(I) Commenced firing four tube salvo, torpedo run 3020 yards; gyro 3570, depth set 6 feet, 40 divergent spread. C. tinuous bearing method, 850 starboard track.

: 0724-23(I) Fired two; torpedo run 3,000 yards, gyro 3590.

: 0724-30(I) Fired three; torpedo run 2980 yards, gyro 3580.

: 0724-38(I) Fired four; torpedo run 2,950 yards, gyro 0010.

: Started deep immediately because of air coverage, and close PT boat.

: 0727-40(I) First torpedo explosion. Probably hit the reef as the run is too great unless the range was off.

: 0727-55(I) Second torpedo explosion.

: 0730-40 to 0733-08(I) Received ten depth charges--quite close. Shook us up quite a bit but no damage except the usual cleaning out of corners. Escort continued to search the vicinity, but never regained good contact. Light screws could be heard all around, but target's screws were never heard after explosions. Continued to evade at deep depth.

: 0845(I) Still have echo ranging and screws, but they seem far away. Started up.

: 0900(I) At periscope depth. Sighted smoke to south-ward--probably the convoy. Sighted large PC lying to 4,000 yards on my beam. He is signal-ling someone with searchlight. Looks as if they left a couple of sleepers back here. Went deep again.

-47-

— page 205 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

August 1 (Cont'd)
1000(I) At periscope depth all clear. Commenced clearing area headed home.

1954(I) Surfaced.

2005(I) Sighted small boat--avoided. (Ship contact #32).

POST: 06°-19'N FUEL: 1107 MILES: 159
123°-52'E

August 2
Enroute SEADLER.
0020(I) Enquiltered radar interference; probably BLUEGILL.
0610(I) Cleared DACE serial three with much trouble.
0613(I) Submerged.
1920(I) Surfaced.

Received message directing us to proceed BRISBANE--much elation.

POST: 05°-02'N FUEL: 2636 MILES: 213
126°-39'E

August 3
Enroute SEADLER.
0837(I) Plane contact on SD--range 14 miles. (Plane contact #57). Submerged.

0854(I) Surfaced.

1535(I) Submerged.

1857(I) Surfaced.

2001(I) Obtained fix on HEIEN Island.

-48-

— page 207 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(C) WEATHER

Usual weather conditions for this time of the year were encountered. Generally overcast with frequent rain squalls. Low hanging clouds made aireraft detection difficult. Light seas from NE to SE were the average. Light variable winds from NE to SE predominated.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

(a) East Coast of MINDANAO (Cape SAN AGUSTIN):

A moderately strong current 1.5 - 2.0 knots, setting 220°T average was experienced off the eastern end of the cape. This current swept across the approach to DAVAO Gulf in the direction of LUAYON Point. South of this point a southerly set was always encountered. North of this point the effect of the current was less marked, and to a certain extent, followed the rise and fall of the tide.

(b) East Coast of MINDANAO (Between LUAYON and BANOS Point):

A southerly set averaging 1.0 knot was always experienced in this locality.

(c) SARANGANI Islands (Western end of SARANGANI Strait):

A strong, 2.5 to 3.0 knot current, setting south to southwest was encountered at this point during the flood.

(d) SARANGANI Bay (Approaches and Entrance):

The majority of the observations were taken when the current was flooding at the bay. Near the entrance to the bay a southeasterly set with an average drift of 1.0 knots predominated during this period. On two different occasion it was observed that the set changed to northeast with an average drift of .5 knots two hours before low water at the bay.

(e) West Coast of MINDANAO (PALIMBAN Point to LEBAK):

A southeasterly to southerly set, averaging 1.0 knot was experienced along west-coast of MINDANAO.

— page 210 —
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— page 212 —
1.7/2/44, 1.25-5.9g, MAVITS
: 13.7/2/44, 1.25-5.9g, MAVITS
: 10.0 m, 3.00p, 1.50p
: 8 m, 3.00p, 1.50p
: 5 m, 1.00p, 0.50p
:

— page 217 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(H) ATTACK DATA

(TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT)

U.S.S. DACE (SS247) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 4

Time 1500J Date July 9, 1944 Lat. 6°-22' N Long. 126°-18'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description Large A.P. Closest resemblance is to the PRESIDENT HARRISON, Page 43 O.N.I. 208J revised.

Ship(s) Probably Sunk One

Damage Determined by Two torpedo explosions. The ship was seen to be enshrouded in smoke immediately after the explosions. One low-order detonation, probably a torpedo. Three subsequent explosions from target--apparently internal explosions.

Target Draft: 20' Course: 175° Speed: 12.5 Range: 3,300 yards (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 3.0 Course: 249° Depth: 66° Angle: 0 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged daylight attack at periscope depth, firing the bow tubes and using a divergent spread.

-60-

— page 218 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.
Subject:  ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)

TORPEDO ATTACK #1

Tubes Fired  #1  #2  #3  #4  #5  #6
Track Angle 107° 109° 108° 113° 118° 115°
Gyro Angle 358° 357° 357° 353° 352° 000°
Depth Set 8' 8' 8' 8' 8' 8'
Power High High High High High High
Hit or Miss Miss Hit Miss Probable Hit Hit Miss
Erratic No No No No No No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A
Serial No. 40368 26612 29242 25965 26046 40295
Mark Exploder 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5
Serial No. 17091 17133 14212 17083 17134 17087
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1
Mark Warhead 12503 3551 11806 12297 12126 12586
Serial No. Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval 11 10 33 15
Type Spread - - - DIVERGENT

— page 220 —
1. TORPEDO ATTACK #2
2. TORPEDO ATTACK #3
3. TORPEDO ATTACK #4
4. TORPEDO ATTACK #5
5. TORPEDO ATTACK #6

Track Angle: 59S, 59S, 62S, 64S, 63S, 62S
Gyro Angle: 0130, 0070, 0080, 0080, 0070, 0060
Depth Set: 6', 6', 6', 6', 6', 6'
Power: - - - High, - - - High
Hit or Miss: Miss, Miss, Hit, Probable, Probable, Miss
Miss: No, No, No, No, No, No
Erratic: No, No, No, No, No, No
Mark Torpedo: 23, 23, 23, 14-34, 23, 14-34
Serial No.: 53150, 41640, 41638, 26436, 41227, 25303
Mark Exploder: 6-5, 6-5, 6-5, 6-5, 6-5, 6-5
Serial No.: 17086, 17085, 17095, 17066, 17090, 17076
Actuation Set: Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual: - - - Contact Contact Contact - - -
Mark Warhead: 16-1, 16-1, 16-1, 16-1, 16-1, 16-1
Serial No.: 11762, 3540, 12562, 12141, 11825, 11770
Explosive: Torpex, Torpex, Torpex, Torpex, Torpex, Torpex
Firing Interval: - - - 10, 9, 15, 8, 8
Type Spread: - - - - DIVERGENT - - -
Sea Conditions: - - - Calm with Moderate Swell - - -
Overhaul Activity: - - - - Navy #134 - - -

REMARKS:
Time of explosion indicated hit by torpedo #3. Torpedoes #1 and #5 were fired to hit M.O.T. end #2, #3, #4 and #6 were offset 10L, 10R, 1-3/4R end 1-3/4L respectively. Times were not recorded for the several explosions which followed the first one.

-63-

— page 221 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)

U.S.S. DACE (SS247) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL REPORT NO. 4

Time: 00501 Date: 27 July 1944 Lat. 50-25'N Long. 121°43'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: One large Tanker or Engines Aft Freighter in column with a medium A.K. ahead, and a medium A.K. asterh.

Ships(s)
Probably Sunk: One

Damage determined by: Three timed torpedo hits; the strong smell of oil in the atmosphere after the attack; and the presence of three of the escorts at the scene of the attack for several hours later.

Target Draft: 20' Course: 3150 Speed 9 K. Range: 2,300 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 12.0 Course: Swinging Depth: Diving Angle 50° (at Estimated) Right (Approx. 40°) firing

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack:

Night radar attack in which the bow tubes were fired while on the surface and the stern tubes while diving and swinging to starboard. A divergent spread was used with both salvoes.

-64-

— page 222 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.
Subject:  (H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2

Tubes Fired:  #7  #8  #9  #10
Track Angle 57S 58S 60S 59S
Gyro Angle 220° 213° 209° 204°
Depth Set 6' 6' 6' 6'
Power Hit 18  Miss  Miss  Hit
Hit or Miss  Not observed  Not observed  Not observed  Not observed
Erratic 18 18 18 18
Mark Torpedo 53559 53529 53552 54068
Serial No. 4-7 4-7 4-7 4-7
Mark Explorer 16537W 16140W 16509W 16497W
Serial No. Contact  Contact  Contact  Contact
Actuation Set  Contact  Contact  Contact
Actuation Actual 18 18 18 18
Mark Warhead 338W 87W 52W 67W
Serial No. Torpex  Torpex  Torpex  Torpex
Explosive 9 9 10
Firing Interval  Divergent
Type Spread  Calm with moderate swell
Sea Conditions  Navy #134
Overall Activity

Remarks:
Time of explosions indicates hits by torpedoes #7 & #10.
Torpedoes #7 & #8 were fired to hit the M.O.T. and #9 & #10
were offset 10' R & 10' L respectively. The boat was swinging to
starboard and submerging at the time of firing.

-65-

— page 223 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.
:  (H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)
:  U.S.S. DACE (SS247)  TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3  PATROL NO. 4
:  Time: 1411  Date: 31 July 1944  Lat. 6°-11.5'N  Long. 124°-08'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Two thousand ton, engines aft, Coastal Freighter.

Ship(s) Sunk: One

Damage determined by: One timed torpedo explosion and the disappearance of the target from the scene 10 minutes after the attack.

Target Draft: 10'  Course: 323°  Speed: 5.5K.  Range: 2,300 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 3K  Course: 222°  Depth: 67°  Angle: 0 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack:

Submerged daylight attack at periscope depth, firing the after tubes and using a divergent spread.

-66-

— page 224 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3

Tubes Fired: #7 #8 #9 #10

Track Angle 102° 102.5° 101.5° 105.5°
Gyro Angle 179° 178° 179° 175.5°
Depth Set 4' 4' 4' 4'
Power - - - -
Hit or Miss Miss Miss Hit
Erratic - - - Not observed - - -
Mark' Torpedo 18 18 18 18
Serial No. 53986 53522 53521 53533
Mark Exploder 4-7 4-7 4-7 4-7
Serial No. 16689W 16695W 16508W 16462W
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - - Contact
Mark Warhead 18 18 18 18
Serial No. 506W 551W 515W 687W
Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval - - 18 10 12
Type Spread - - - DIVERGENT - - -
Sea Conditions - - Sea calm with moderate swells - - -
Overhaul Activity - - - Navy #134 - - -

Remarks:

Timed explosion indicated a hit by torpedo #10. Torpedoes #7 & #8 were fired to hit M.O.T. and torpedoes #9 & #10 were offset 1.5°R and 1.5°L respectively. A very close premature explosion occurred 48 seconds after firing the last torpedo.

-67-

— page 225 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)
U.S.S. DACE (SS247) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4 PATROL NO. 4
Time: 0724I Date: 1 August 1944 Lat. 60-25'N Long. 1240-01.5E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Medium A.K.
Ship(s) Sunk: -
Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk: -
Damage determined by: -
Target Draft: 18' Course: 160° Speed: 8.5K Range: 3,100 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed: 3.0K Course: 065° Depth 67' Angle 0 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack:
Submerged daylight attack at periscope depth, firing the bow tubes and using a divergent spread.

-68-

— page 226 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

Subject: ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4

Tubes Fired: #1 #2 #3 #4

Track Angle 820 840 830 860
Gyro Angle 3570 3590 3580 0010
Depth Set 6' 6' 6' 6'
Power High
Hit or Miss Miss Miss Miss
Erratic Not observed - Scuttled heard all running properly
Mark Torpedo 23 23 14-3A 23
Serial No. 52993 41219 33946 41637
Mark Exploder 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5
Serial No. 14206 17174 17164 17140
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1
Mark Warhead 12142 5927 12858 9820
Serial No. Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Explosive 8 8 7 8
Firing Interval - DIVERGENT - - - -
Type Spread - Flat Calm - - - -
Sea Conditions - Navy #134 - - - -
Overhaul Activity - - - - -

Remarks:

Timing of two torpedo explosions indicated an excessive torpedo run for hitting target. It is believed the torpedoes exploded against the Reef. Torpedoes were offset from the M.C.T. 0.5R, 0.5L, 2R, 2R respectively.

-69-

— page 227 —
1. CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(I) MINES

The day after the attack off Cape SAN AGUSTIN and while reconnoitering this locality several small floating objects were observed. Some were painted white, others red. At the time they were thought to be fish net buoys, however, they might have been small floating mines.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

Anti-submarine measures were many and varied. Off DAVAO there was a decided increase in air patrol over that noted last run. There were also anti-submarine patrols or killer groups that appeared very active. These groups were formed of a great variety of types: several PC's of various sizes; several killer type patrol boats; one small freighter type; end at least one engines aft job similar to our net tenders were noted. They are all sound equipped using both echo ranging and listening. They normally cause much smoke and apparently try to attract attention. They may be used as decoys for important traffic. In our case their search was ineffective as we made numerous approaches on them without detection.

All convoys were well escorted with a minimum of two for a single ship and a maximum of six for a three ship convoy. Air escorts were used in most cases. It is peculiar that the ship contact of 9 July failed to have a. air escort close to DAVAO while both contacts at Port LEBAK had air cover. The convoy of 27 July had air cover of four BERTY's throughout the daylight hours. After being at deep submergence for one hour and a half after the attack on 1 August came up thinking it all clear and found a large PC lying to only 4,000 yards away. The old sleeper play.

All attacks, with the exception of the single ship contact resulted in very quick and accurate initial depth charging. The depth charges encountered this run appear to be larger than those previously encountered. After the initial runs the charges were in general further away.

Evasive actions consisted of going deep and retiring at four knots, steering various courses in the same general direction.

-70-

— page 228 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

(a) ENGINEERING:

Auxiliary Engine: Examination of engine after being stopped due to abnormal noise revealed the following: An exhaust valve in #4 unit had broken off at base of stem and fallen inside cylinder. Following damage was caused: Broken injector tip, bending of remaining exhaust valves, extensive over-all damage to cylinder head. All damaged parts renewed and engine was placed back in commission.

Main Gyro: Departed from tender with gyro not settled down. Gyro did not settle down as expected and an inspection revealed that south gyro rotor lead was making contact with follow up coil support arm thus preventing the sensitive element from settling on meridian. Lead was cleared and gyro settled.

(b) GUNNERY:

T.D.C.: Arcing of the contact rollers on the collector ring of the RAB mechanical follow up head collector ring assembly in the position keeper burned the insulation to such an extent that a short circuit resulted. The charred insulation (bakelite) was scraped out and new insulation built up by the use of a segment of fiber and sealing wax. This was fitted in the assembly and proved satisfactory for the rest of the patrol.

T.B.T.: Both forward and after units flooded. Forward unit was dried out and a spare synchro trans-mitter installed. Lack of anchor spare transmitter and flooded leads did not warrant opening the after unit.

(L) RADIO

No major casualties occurred and the performance of the equipment was of the highest.

All serial numbered messages were received. Reception was good and no difficulty was experienced in copying schedules. On the other hand, great difficulty was experienced in raising

— page 229 —
1. RADIO (Cont'd)
2. The performance of both radars was satisfactory and no major casualties occurred. The lack of a suitable SD radar was again felt during this patrol.
3. No contacts were made on the CT-2 radar detector although several realistic sixty cycle indications were traced down to noisy fan motors. On one occasion the interference also showed up on the S.J. radar as pulses similar to another radar but slightly broader and with a random pulse rate.
4. Only interference encountered was that caused by S.J. radar of friendly submarines.
5. Although no major casualties occurred in the sound equipment it is felt that the "QB" equipment is not operating at maximum efficiency in that it lacks sensitivity. A new "QB" head will be requested.
6. Sound conditions in the area varied from good to excellent. It was noted that inside of five miles from the beach the noise level caused by fish and reef noises was so great that accurate listening could not be obtained. Outside of the five mile limit conditions were excellent. Most of the contacts made were originally picked up by echo ranging of enemy A/S vessels. Ranges as high as 15 miles were not unusual. Screws were heard at normal ranges. A log of sound contacts was kept.
7. The "JP" topside gear is proving itself more each patrol, but power train for this gear would improve its usefulness greatly. Hand training would still be used to develop contacts. Two sets of high impedance crystal phones were damaged beyond repair by perspiration of the operator. The crystals were actually disintegrated by the moisture.

-72-

— page 231 —
1. U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY

The health of officers and crew was good throughout the patrol. After spending 36 out of 37 days in the area submerged all hands began to show the wear and tear which accompany an active patrol. One case of acute tonsillitis and one case of renal colic resulted in the loss of eleven days.

Habitability was greatly improved during daily dives by the use of CO2 absorbent. The cooling of the engines by the detached pumps also does much to improve habitability.

The Commissary Department maintained its usual high standard. Men were varied and food was well prepared and served.

(Q) PERSONNEL

The performance of duty of both officers and men was of the highest quality. Their reaction during depth charge attacks left nothing to be desired. All hands rate a well done for their work on the morning of 27 July where a slip on anyone's part would have lost the boat. We were in at very close quarters, and had to make a dive at full speed; firing as we went down. The training of the crew really paid off as everything went off/smoothly as a trim dive in Long Island Sound.

The patrol was started with a 100% new approach party. They are now veterans and a most efficient organization. They are now veterans

— page 232 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(Q) PERSONNEL (Cont'd)
YOUNGER, C.M., 258 01 45, CMOM, USN, for his outstanding performance on the sound gear that was of great assistance to the Commanding Officer both during attack and the subsequent evasions.

WRIGHT, C.L., 630 18 65, CRT, USNR for the valuable radar information furnished during the night attack.

MURPHY, H.A., 267 90 09, CTM, USN for his consistent excellent performance of duty as Chief-of-the-Boat.

(R) MILES STEADED - FUEL USED

BRISBANE. to Area --- 3104 miles - -30,500 gal. fuel
In Area --- 6798 miles - -56,406 gal. fuel
Area to. R.T.S.B.NE --- 3277 miles - -17,101 gal. fuel

(S) DURATION

Days enroute area --- 12 days
Days in area --- 37 days
Days enroute base --- 5 days
Total --- 54 days
Days submerged --- 36 days

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

TORPEDOES FUEL PROVISIONS PERSONNEL

0 3,500 gal. 10 davs 7 days

Limiting factor of this patrol: Expenditure of torpedoes.

(U) REMARKS

The Brisbane refit was a huge success. There were no major casualties and very few of the minor ones normally experienced after a refit. The new wiper rings installed in the main engines licked the smoke problem that was experienced last run. Flooding of topside electrical gear was more numerous than experienced previously--whether this is due to age or to numerous depth charges received, is a matter of question.

— page 233 —
U.S.S. DACE - Report of War Patrol No. FOUR.

(U) REMARKS (Cont'd)

The extensive night tracking again points to the desirability of a T.D.C. with a range unit of 16 to 20 thousand yards. Although it is feasible to use half scale it would be much simpler if this were not necessary. The major disadvantage is the short period of time to get shifted to the high scale and check set up when going in for the attack.

The lack of satisfactory communication between bridge and conning tower during night attacks was again keenly felt. It is hoped a successful 2 MC can be installed this refit.

A system of rendezvousing with other boats during shift of areas is recommended. In this way the latest dope on the various areas could be obtained.

-76-

— page 234 —
5-18/16-3/(11) SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHTEEN
Serial 0103
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
8 August 1944

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS DACE (SS247)
Report of Fourth War
Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron Eighteen.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.

Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Fourth War Patrol, comments on.

1. During this patrol DACE had contact on seven occasions with targets worthy of torpedoes. She was unable to close three of those eotactks but delivered attacks in the remaining four cases.

Attack No. 1

A submerged daylight attack on a large AP reascribing the "President Harrison". Two hits were obtained out of a six bow torpedo spread. Forced deep by vigorous counter-attack by the two escorts of the Cuidori type. AP last seen headed for beach 3000 yards distant, with a port list and enveloped in smoke. The beach in this area was thoroughly searched the next day, but no trace of the target was found.

Attack No. 2

This was a night surface attack on a convoy of two medium AKS and one small A0 or AK with six escorts. The attack culminated an eighteen hour chase. During the daytime portion of the chase, DACE was forced down eight time by planes of the convoy air umbrella. After firing the six bow tubes on a 65 starboard track, 3800 yards range, DACE was forced to dive by a nearby escort intent on ramming, but fired the four stern tubes while submerging. Three timed hits were recorded out of the whole of ten torpedoes. Results could not be observed.

Attack No. 3

A submerged daylight attack on a small unescorted engines-aft AKS. One timed hit out of four torpedoes fired. Results unobserved as DACE went deep when a heavy explosion close aboard rocked the boat which was thought to be an A/C bomb. Explosion most probably was a premature. Nine minutes after firing, upon again re-arching periscope depth, there was no sign of target.

9 01885

— page 235 —
5-18/16-3/(11) SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHTEEN Wx
Serial 0103
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. DACE (SS247) - Fourth War Patrol, comments on.

Attack No. 4

A submerged daylight attack on a medium A K with four small escorts. Four storm tubes fired at 3100 yard range, 85 port track. Counter-attack by escorts prevented observation of results. Two torpedo explosions heard but times indicated excessive range. Torpedoes probably exploded on reef.

2. The material condition of the DACE is very good. Her state of cleanliness is excellent. No major casualties occurred, except to the T.D.C. Arcing of the contact rollers on the collecting ring of the RAB mechanical follow-up head collector ring assembly in the position keeper burned the backside insulation which resulted in a short circuit. Satisfactory repairs were effected by Lieut(jg) A.A. Ebel, U.S.N.R., C.E.M., L.B., PARDEN and W.O. WILLIAMS, F.C.2c. The ignomunity, skill and hard work displayed by those men in restoring the T.D.C. to operation is highly commendable.

3. DACE will be given a normal refit by the Submarine Repair Unit, Brisbane, Australia.

4. The state of health of the personnel is excellent and their morale is "top".

5. The patrol was conducted in an excellent manner in an area where anti-submarine measures consisting of planes, "hunter-killer" groups and decoy "Snokey Joes" were constantly employed by the enemy. All attacks were carried out in an aggressive and efficient manner. The success of these attacks is attributable to a great extent, to the excellent organization of the fire control party and the high state of training of the ship's company.

6. The Squadron Commander takes great pleasure in congratulating the commanding officer, his officers and crew on a fine, well conducted, aggressive patrol and upon the damage inflicted upon the enemy.