U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS-405) — war patrol report SS-405_SEA_OWL.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR 186-76]

1.0
1.1
1.25
1.4

2.8
3.15
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.6
6.3

2.5
2.2
2.0
1.8
1.6

OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: Miller]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 1-2-76]

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

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Sea Owl
A lumpfish of the north Atlantic.

(SS-405: dp. 1,526 (surf.), 2,401 (subm.); l. 311'8'';
b. 27'3''; dr. 15'3''; s. 20 k. (surf.), 9 k. (subm.);
cpl. 81; a. 1 5'', 1 40mm., 1 20mm., 10 21'' tt. (f. 6, a. 4);
Balao)

Sea Owl (SS-405) was laid down by the Portsmouth
(N.H.) Navy Yard on 7 February 1944; launched on 7
May 1944; sponsored by Mrs. Thomas L. Gatch; and
commissioned on 17 July 1944, Lt. Comdr. Carter L.
Bennett in command.
After shakedown off Portsmouth, N.H., and New Lon-
don, Conn., Sea Owl transited the Panama Canal and
arrived at Pearl Harbor on 23 October 1914. Her first
war patrol commenced on 19 November and was con-

— page 3 —
ducted in the East China Sea as part of a coordinated
attack group with Sea Poacher (SS-406) and Piranha
(SS-389). After three weeks of searching for worth-
while targets, Sea Owl sank her initial victim, a
Japanese escort destroyer. The remainder of the patrol
was uneventful, and the submarine put into Guam on
15 January 1945.
For her second war patrol, Sea Owl joined Piranha
and Puffer (SS-268) in patrolling in Luzon Strait and
the South China Sea. She sank the morning of 18 April
of the RO-35 class to the bottom. Her second patrol
ended at Midway on 21 April.
Sea Owl got underway for her third and final war
patrol on 20 May in concert with Puffer and Tirante
(SS-420). This patrol was concentrated in the Yellow
and East China seas and was devoted to both lifeguard
duties and offensive patrol. After 19 days, two Japanese
destroyers were contacted. The situation was developed
from a perfect set-up. The first torpedo hit one of the
destroyers in her magazine amidships, blowing her up
in the water and allowing the other torpedoes to pass
under the target and miss. The other destroyer joined
forces with two patrol craft and vengefully dropped
84 depth charges during the following 14 hours but
inflicted no material damage. Four days later, Sea Owl,
in a gun attack, destroyed a large, rice-laden, four-
masted schooner from which she captured two prisoners
of war. On 2 July, she rescued six downed aviators
after a 135-mile race against darkness. All six were
treated for wounds and was included in the crew for
the remainder of the patrol.
When the Japanese surrendered on 15 August, Sea
Owl was in Pearl Harbor preparing for her fourth
war patrol.
Upon returning to the United States in September,
Sea Owl was assigned to the Atlantic Fleet and was
based at Balboa in the Canal Zone as a unit of Sub-
marine Squadron (SubRon) 6. From October 1946
through March 1947, she made a cruise along the west
coast of South America and joined the other submarines
of SubRon 6 in fleet exercises off Culebra Island in the
West Indies. She next supported antisubmarine train-
ing at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Key West, Fla.
Sea Owl underwent overhaul at the Philadelphia Navy
Yard from September 1947 to January 1948 followed by
a brief period of refresher training in the Caribbean.
Balboa on 12 January and, for the next 18 months, op-
erated in the Panama area in fleet training ex-
ercises.
On 27 June 1949, Sea Owl arrived at the Portsmouth
(N.H.) Naval Shipyard for a regularly scheduled
overhaul and, upon completion, was assigned
to SubRon 8 in New London, Conn. For the next two
years, she operated in the Atlantic participating in
fleet exercises and antisubmarine training.
Sea Owl was converted to a fleet snorkel submarine
in the Philadelphia Navy Yard from April to August
1951 and, for the next year, she participated in Atlantic
fleet exercises in the Caribbean area. Early in 1953,
the submarine entered Charleston (S.C.) Naval Ship-
yard for overhaul and, upon completion, sailed to New
London and then to the Caribbean as part of operation
"Springboard." After returning to New London in March,
she departed for her first tour of duty with the 6th Fleet
in the Mediterranean participating in fleet exercises
and visiting France, Italy, and Spain in a three-month tour.
Returning to New London in August 1954, Sea Owl
spent the next two years in Atlantic and Caribbean
waters training submarine school students and reserve
personnel. After engaging in special operations in the
late fall of 1956 and early 1957, the submarine re-
sumed normal duties in the New London area until
1 September when she departed to engage in NATO
exercises "Fishplay" and "Strikeback" in the northern
Atlantic, returning to New London in October.

In April and May 1958, Sea Owl participated in
NATO exercise "New Broom" and, upon returning to
New London, engaged in local operations for the re-
mainder of the year. After a five-month overhaul, early
in 1959, she participated in NATO exercise "Fishplay"
and spent the latter months of 1960 in her second de-
ployment to the Mediterranean.
Sea Owl commenced 1961 with an extended upkeep
period followed by local operations in the New London
area. On 6 March, she departed for another Mediter-
ranean tour followed by a scheduled overhaul in the
Portsmouth (N.H.) Naval Shipyard.
After the 1962 Christmas holidays, Sea Owl departed
to take part in the second phase of
operation "Springboard" including antisubmarine war-
fare exercises and visits to Puerto Rico and the Virgin
Islands. Immediately following, she was engaged in a
two-week antisubmarine warfare exercise with surface
and air units of the Royal Canadian Navy in the vicinity
of Bermuda. In April 1963, she participated in exercise
"New Broom XI" with joint forces of the United States
and Canada. The remainder of the year consisted of
operations and training exercises in
the New London area.
On 8 February 1964, Sea Owl commenced a five-week
availability at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard fol-
lowed by participation in exercise "Long Hook" with
joint forces of the United States, British, Canadian,
and Dutch Navies and in exercise "Canus Silex" with
United States, Cana-
dian, and British Naval forces. In September,
she participated in exercise "Master Stroke" and "Sla-
mex" with United States, Canadian, and Dutch Navies
and returned to the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard on
2 November for a five-month overhaul.
Sea Owl put to sea for a four-month over-
Mediterranean and, after returning
to New London, engaged in local exercises for the re-
mainder of the year.
Sea Owl spent 1966 providing services for the Sub-
marine School and Operational Test and Evaluation
Force in New London and with time out for participation
in operation "Springboard" in the Caribbean. During
1967, she participated in various fleet and training
exercises; and, on 22 May, deployed to northern Euro-
pean waters for a training and good will tour, returning
in July.
During a discharge physical examination, one of the
crewman was discovered to have an active case of
tuberculosis in an advanced stage. Due to the close
environment and isolated atmosphere of the submarine,
the crew was transferred to the United States Naval
Hospital, St. Albans, N.Y., for three days of intensive
laboratory analysis. It was found that no other active cases
existed, and the crew was returned because of the unique
living conditions of submarine life. Sea Owl served as a control
ship for the Tuberculosis Service, Bureau of Medicine
and Surgery.
Operations for the year 1968 included various fleet
antisubmarine warfare operations and various NATO
and United States ASW naval exercises, including both
officer and enlisted reserve training cruises.
On 30 June 1969, Sea Owl was reclassified as an
auxiliary submarine (AGSS). She departed New London
on 7 July for her final deployment to the Mediterranean.
Upon return, the submarine was ordered to commence
preparations for deactivation. On 15 November, after
more than 25 years of dedicated service, Sea Owl was
decommissioned and struck from the Navy list.
She had received five battle stars for World War II
service.

Sea Panther
A black-spotted, South African fish.
405

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SS405/A16-3
Serial #09
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L (crossed out)
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)
% Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, Calif.

15 January 1945.
DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.C
[HANDWRITTEN: BY 0104314 DATE 6/5/74]

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Submarine Division TWO EIGHTY TWO.
(2) Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-EIGHT.
(3) Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Reference: (a) Task Group SEVENTEEN POINT SEVENTEEN Supplementary Operation
Plan dated 29 November 1944.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart (For COMSUBSPAC only). [HANDWRITTEN: [FIRST WAR PATROL]]

1. Enclosure (A), covering the First War Patrol of this vessel
conducted in the Northeastern part of the EAST CHINA SEA during the period
19 November 1944 to 15 January 1945, is forwarded herewith.

2. Special Reports mentioned in Enclosure (A)
and on Radar Interceptions in the area are being forwarded direct to
COMSUBSPAC under a higher security classification.

3. Copies of reference (a) were transmitted to COMSUBSPAC and
COMSUBSTRAINPAC from refueling station en route to the area.

[SIGNATURE: C. L. BENNETT]
C. L. BENNETT.

104420
[STAMP: FILMED]

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U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of First War Patrol.

(A) PROLOGUE

The keel was laid 4 February 1944 and ship launched 7 May 1944 at
the Navy Yard, PORTSMOUTH, N.H. Commissioned 17 July and accepted 5 August 1944,
reporting to COMSUBLANT for operational training. Training operations in PORTS-
MOUTH AREA August 6-22 under Comdr. T. M. DYKERS, U.S.N., were of great value but
it is felt that the schedule was advanced too rapidly and that more independent
operations for learning to handle the ship would have been most advantageous.
Fired contract torpedo trials at NEWPORT, then proceeded to NEW LONDON on 26 August.
Conducted final training, four days of approaches under Comdr. J. L. HULL, U.S.N.,
helped tremendously in completing the organization of the fire control party; but
here again the time assigned to indepen[HANDWRITTEN: dent] ships operations was utilized in making
exhaustive sound tests - this being the first direct drive ship to operate - and
this loss was sorely felt. Departed September 6 for KEY WEST, FLA., arriving
there September 12 after a voyage in which heavy weather precluded much of the
planned underway training. Operations at KEY WEST consisted almost exclusively of
conducting torpedo firing tests (not involving our fire control party) for the
Bureau of Ordnance and had negligible training value. Departed KEY WEST on Septem-
ber 28.

A four-day training period off PERLAS ISLANDS under Captain J. G.
JOHNS, U.S.N., is considered to be by far the most productive and least exhaust-
ing training period in the experience of this Commanding Officer. Since such
enthusiasm seems to be unanimous among those who have undergone this training, it
is suggested that an investigation into the reasons for it might be in order. My
personal answer to such a query would be: (1) Almost unlimited flexibility of
schedules, permitting the Commanding Officer to put the pressure where he feels it
is most needed; (2) Ideal operating conditions (weather and sea); (3) Adequate
and cooperative target facilities who also have the flexible schedule; (4) Adequate
exercise torpedoes furnished, together with the flexibility of schedule, make the
Commanding Officer feel more free to attempt unusual and difficult shots (such as
long ranges, unusual tracks, down-the-throat, etc.) that are extremely valuable
experience, rather than feeling under a compulsion to get in ideal position and
get a hit with each of the four exercise shots normally allowed. The experience
for the torpedo force in picking up their torpedoes at sea and preparing them for
another shot is also considered valuable - and all too rare in war time. (5) Good &
convenient anchorage facilities, which permit all hands a good night's rest;
(6) No interference from traffic in area. Departed BALBOA, reporting by dispatch
to COMSUBSPAC for duty, on October 6 in company with SPIKFISH, with whom we
conducted pre-arranged training exercises en route. This is considered an excellent
arrangement.

Arrived PEARL October 23 and underwent voyage repair period of four
days in which much new and valuable equipment was obtained, including just about
everything in use at the time except the night periscope and ST radar. Carried
out normal new construction training schedule under Comdrs. T. M. DYKERS and
L. H. CHAPPELL, U.S.N. This schedule was entirely adequate and left us with

-1-

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CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of First War Patrol.

lining the 100-fathom curve opposite NAGA SHIMA KAIKYO.

0608 Aimed at the biggest hole in the line and submerged to close the coast.

0844 Sighted and avoided a large trawler (SC14) patrolling at very slow speed.

1008 Sighted a bamboo fishing net float as described in CROAKER (2nd W.P.)
     report; gave it wide berth.

1303 Sighted BETTY or SALLY (AC8) flying low to Westward.

1836 Surfaced and patrolled to Westward.

December 19

0312 Aircraft (AC9) on SJ radar 13300; bearing and range changed very
     rapidly as it closed to 4000 yards then opened out and was lost at 10000.

0622 On lifeguard station for B-29 strike; assigned stations had been inter-
     changed to correspond with expected positions of boats. Submerged during
     twilight then commenced patrolling in the trough of condition four seas,
     maintaining good diving speed on two engines, SJ radar on power sweep,
     40,000 yard scale; pulsing watch on SD; and constant watch on APR. Sky
     was completely overcast with low broken StCu clouds but surface
     visibility good. The high hills behind NAGASAKI were plainly visible
     at about 35 miles. Heard planes exchange calls and signal strength on
     lifeguard frequency at about 0800 and that was all for the day.

0926 Commenced getting weak indications of two sets of airborne radar (AR3)
     keying infrequently on 157 mcs.

1012 SJ contact on a plane at 44,000 yards (AC10). Largest APR signal at this
     time was nearly one inch high and he was apparently getting contact on us
     as the range closed fairly rapidly.

1019 Submerged when range on SJ reached 27,000 yards; full saturation on APR.

1055 Surfaced when search showed only one SD contact at 13 miles and was just
     opening the hatch when simultaneous reports indicated SJ had a BETTY on
     the periscope at 5 miles heading for us, SJ had planes at 22,000 and
     24,000 yards closing and SD had a contact at 18 miles (AC11). How many
     aircraft were involved I would not care to venture a guess, but needless
     to say we submerged without trying to straighten it out.

     Had been most anxious to get up for the 1100 CHINA schedule, since the
     weather was so bad and the lifeguard frequency so quiet it looked as
     though the raid might have been called off.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)
Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of First War Patrol.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS - DESIGNATED IN NARRATIVE AS (SC#____)

| NO. | DATE | LAT | LONG. | TYPES | INITIAL RANGE | EST.COURSE &SPEED | HOW CONTACTED | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1502 | 33-19 | 128-55 | TRAWLER (YMS) | 6000 yds | 5 kts | P | Attack #1 |
|   | 9 Dec '44 | | | | | | | |
| 2 | 1508 | 33-19 | 128-55 | TRAWLER | 6000 yds | 5 kts | P | A/S or Minesweeper |
|   | 9 Dec | | | | | | | |
| 3 | 2300 | 33-35 | 128-40 | FISHING CRAFT | Various | Various Slow | R | Dodged Many small Fishing Craft. |
|   | 9 Dec. | | | | | | | |
| 4 | 0825 | 33-28 | 129-17 | TRAWLERS (YMS) | 6500 yds. | Northerly 5 kts. | P | Sweeping |
|   | 10 Dec. | | | | | | | |
| 5 | 0210 | 33-40 | 128-14 | DD or DE | 6100 yds | 305° 9.5 kts. | R | ATTACK #2&3 |
|   | 11 Dec | | | | | | | |
| 6 | 0600 | 33-38 | 128-36 | LITSUKI CLASS DD | 9000 yds | Various 12.5 to 14 | R | ATTACK #4 |
|   | 11 Dec. | | | | | | | |
| 8 | 0825 | 33-45 | 128-36 | TRAWLER | 6000 yds. | Various 5 kts. | P | Patrolling & Sweeping |
|   | 11 Dec. | | | | | | | |
| 9 | 1815 | 33-18 | 128-25 | PROBABLY TRAWLERS | 8500 yds | 180° 6 kts. | R | Avoided |
|   | 11 Dec | | | | | | | |
| 10 | 0530 | 33-10 | 128-33 | PROBABLY FISHING CRAFT | 3670 yds. | 180° 5 kts. | R | Avoided |
|   | 12 Dec | | | | | | | |
| 11 | 0615 | 33-07 | 128-33 | TRAWLER | 8000 yds. | UNK | P | Avoided |
|   | 12 Dec | | | | | | | |
| 12 | 14 Dec. | 30-23 | 130-13 | SAIPAN-2 | 2000 yds. | Various 5 kts. | F | Patrolling | 14 | 0427 | 31-53 | 129-53 | LARGE TRAWLER | 6000 yds. | Patrolling | Sighted | Avoided |
| [HANDWRITTEN: ^1] | 18 Dec. | | | | | | | |
| 13 | 0644 | 31-53 | 129-47 | S.J.PANS | Various | Various | Sighted | Fishing Craft |
|   | 18 Dec. | | | | | | | |
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U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) . .

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of First War Patrol.

— page 55 —
FB5-282/A16-3
Serial (02)

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT
CO SEA OWL (SS405) Ltr
SS405/A16-3, serial (09)
dated 15 January, 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Division TWO EIGHTY TWO.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY EIGHT.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
The Commander-in-Chief, United States, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of War Patrol Number
One.

1. The First War Patrol of SEA OWL was
conducted in the Northeastern part of the East China Sea as part of a coordinated
attack group called Bennett's Blazers under the command of Commander
C.L. BENNETT, Commanding Officer of SEA OWL. No opportunity for
coordinated attack was offered however and for all practical pur-
poses the patrol was conducted independently. It extended over a
period of fifty eight days, thirty-six on station of which thirty-
four were spent submerged.

2. The patrol was characterized throughout by very strong
enemy opposition and few worthwhile targets. There were eighty
airplane contacts, forty-one of which were contacted by sight and
radar and thirty-nine by A.P.R. intercept. During the dark hours
of December 27 - 28 SEA OWL was forced to dive seven times by enemy
aircraft. There were thirty-one ship contacts, one of which was a
destroyer, another a destroyer or destroyer escort, and the remain-
der were miscellaneous small craft. Area coverage was excellent and
it is disappointing that SEA OWL was not rewarded by more targets
worthy of torpedo fire in this hitherto productive locality.

3. Five torpedo attacks were delivered. The DD or DE
encountered in the dark early morning hours of December 11th was
sunk by two hits from two torpedoes fired. The first was a
hit delivered in an excellent submerged attack which stopped the
target. The second hit was delivered in a surface attack with one
Mark 18-1 torpedo to insure that the target would sink-which it did
with despatch.

4. About four hours later a MITSUKI class destroyer sighted
SEA OWL on the surface at dawn while she was trying to gain an attack
position and turned towards just as the submarine submerged. With
a torpedo run of 1800 yards for the first torpedo SEA OWL fired five
Mark 18-1 torpedoes set at three feet down the throat. A sixth

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SUBMARINE DIVISION TWO EIGHTY TWO
c/o Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, Calif.

18 January, 1945

— page 57 —
FC5-28/A16-3
Serial: 016
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY-EIGHT
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
19 January 1945.

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO SEA OWL conf. ltr.
SS405/A16-3, serial 09,
dated 15 January 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-EIGHT.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(2) The Commander-in-Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the Commander Submarine
Division TWO HUNDRED EIGHTY TWO in the first endorsement.

2. The continued increase in feeling of submarine commanding officers
as to the great value of the APR again brings out the necessity of calibration
data to aid in quick identity of the type and strength of signal being intercep-
ted. To accomplish this it is suggested that the tuning dial of the instrument
be calibrated for the types of Japanese radar by use of a color scheme of three
colors to indicate land, air, and ship borne radars. Data should be taken during
the training period of range versus signal strength on friendly radar equipped
planes.

3. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, officers
and crew of the SEA OWL on the damage they inflicted on the enemy on this, their
first war patrol.

4. It is recommended that the SEA OWL be credited with the following:

SUNK:
1 DD, MUTSUKI class (EU) 1445 (Attacks #2 and #3)
1 Misc. Whale-killer type XPC (EC) 270 (Attack #5)
TOTAL 1715 tons.

[SIGNATURE: J. M. WILL.]

— page 58 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3
(15)
Serial 017

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SEA OWL Report of
First War Patrol.

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
[STAMP: 27 JAN 1945]
Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco; California,
26 January 1945.

NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 650
U.S.S. SEA OWL - 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. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of First War Patrol
(19 November, 1944, to 15 January, 1945).

1. The first war patrol of the SEA OWL was conducted in
the northeastern part of the East China Sea. The SEA OWL, along with
the U.S.S. PIRALLA (SS389) and the U.S.S. SEA POACHER (SS406), formed
a coordinated attack group with the commanding officer of the SEA OWL,
Commander C. L. Bennett, U.S. Navy, as the group commander.

2. The SEA OWL on her first war patrol encountered and
courageously withstood enemy anti-submarine measures like a veteran
submarine. Many small ship contacts were made, the largest of which
was a destroyer. Five skillful attacks were delivered which
accounted for one destroyer and a patrol vessel.

3. Award of the Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol
is authorized.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratu-
lates the commanding officer, officers, and crew of the SEA OWL for
this arduous, aggressive and successful patrol. The SEA OWL is
credited with having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy
during this patrol:

S U N K
1 - DD (MUTSUKI Type) (EU) - 1,300 tons (Attacks Nos.2 & 3)
1 - XPC (Whale Killer Type) (EC) - 300 tons (Attack No. 5)
TOTAL SUNK - 1,600 tons

J. H. BROWN, Jr.
Deputy ComSubSPac.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7)
CNO (5)
Cincpac (6)
ICPOA (1)

- 1 -

— page 60 —
SS405/A16-3
Serial: 016

U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)
% Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED] [STAMP: DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510/1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: 010984] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 7/15/72]
21 April 1945.

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405), Report of War Patrol, Number TWO.

Enclosures: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart (in three parts).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the 2nd war patrol of this vessel conducted
in LUCON STRAITS and Northern Part of SOUTH CHINA SEA during the period 11 February
to 21 April 1945, is forwarded herewith.

C.L. BENNETT.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 119425]

— page 62 —
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405). . .

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Second War Patrol.

— page 63 —
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Second War Patrol.

— page 69 —
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Second War Patrol.
patrols on which Ensign A. J. KALINOSKI had made a liar out of our
electronic equipment to save us an embarrassing moment.

0813 Surfaced on lifeguard station; VAL did not see us and was watched
     by periscope to disappear to Southward.

0820 APR indication of JAP airborne radar on 151 mcs., not very strong.

0835 Sighted another VAL at 8 - 10 miles and headed toward as he maintained
     a large angle on the bow and disappeared to southward.

1011 Two or more aircraft on SJ and SD heading South, closed to 17 miles.
     Showed IFF.

1345 Submerged; lifeguard completed.

1907 Surfaced on lifeguard station, after some delay to effect repairs to
     radar.

1937 Aircraft on SJ closed slowly to 7200 yards then opened out; no IFF.

2010 APR intercept on airborne radar, 156 mcs.

2108 Submerged when aircraft on SJ; no IFF, closed on constant bearing to
     8000 yards.

2128 Surfaced.

2147 Aircraft on SJ closed to 9 miles while another on SD at 14 miles
     showed IFF. On termination of lifeguard duties set course for new
     patrol station, relieved by PIRANHA as BLAZER lifeguard.

25 February (21 - 46 N; 121 - 28 E)

     Patrolled submerged all day in Northern part of BASHI CHANNEL.

1900 Sent serial two; routine weather report. Patrolled BASHI CHANNEL.

26 February (22 - 30 N; 121 - 37 E)

0320 Received COMSUBPAC report of aviator down 3 miles south of GARAN BI; no
     time was given but since he was "seen" we assumed it was from yester-
     day morning's strikes and computed drift accordingly. Although he
     was reported drifting South, our experience here has shown a
     consistent set between 040° and 050° T with a drift varying from
     1.5 to 2.5 knots. Therefore detailed PUFFER to search South of

-9-

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Second War Patrol.

1925 Aircraft on SJ at 5000 yards opening rapidly until lost at 11,000
     yards. SD checked the contact. No harm done but it was disappointing
     to pick him up so close aboard after the marvelous performance our
     SJ has been giving on aircraft.

     Set course for new patrol station in BALINTANG CHANNEL.

1 March (19 - 56 N; 121 - 39 E)

0418 APR signal of airborne radar, keying on 157 mcs, 850 prf. Had
     reached one half inch high when aircraft picked up on SJ at 11,000
     yards. Both contacts lost after a few minutes.

0538 Submerged for patrol in BALINTANG CHANNEL.

1902 Surfaced. Upon decoding CSP serial one three, set course at three
     engine speed for new station South of HONG KONG.

2 March (21 - 09 N; 117 - 52 E)

0134 Aircraft on SJ; drew aft and closed slowly to 5000 yards where it was
     suddenly lost to both radars.

0557 Sighted and exchanged recognition with PIRANHA astern. Lost contact
     when he apparently made trim dive.

     Commenced passing through much assorted wreckage. Our periscope-
     conscious lookouts gave the watch officers and the skipper very few
     dull moments today.

0620 Aircraft on SJ, closed to 20,000 yards, - no IFF.

0757 Several aircraft on SJ and SD; tracked at a minimum range of 40,000
     yards. Both radars functioning beautifully on aircraft.

1012 Recovered ring life buoy marked "RYUKO MARU - DAIREN" at 21-01N,
     118-01E. Appeared to have been in water 30 - 60 days. Several empty
     4" - 5" shell cases among wreckage.

1104 Made twenty minute trim dive.

1255 Recovered ring life buoy with inscription in Hirogana or ideograph
     at 21 - 19N 117-36E. Had been in water for considerable length
     of time.

-11-

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Second War Patrol.

1205 Surfaced; patrolling to Southward.
1526 Submerged for aircraft on SD at 4 miles closing. Not sighted, no IFF.
1622 Surfaced and patrolled Northward.
2030 Received CSP serial twenty, amplifying lifeguard orders. We are to
     remain within thirty miles of spot, and to go inside 25 fathom curve
     only after destroying ECM and to effect actual rescue.

4 March (21 - 25 N; 114 - 27 E)
0549 Submerged for trim and to effect repairs to SJ radar.
0905 Surfaced, - SJ back in commission. This equipment has proven by far
     our most reliable means of aircraft detection, though we also keep
     constant APR watch and a keying plan on SD when visibility is spotty
     in daytime.
     Patrolling at two engine speed within thirty mile radius, using course
     clock superimposed on a very radical (70%) zig plan. This scheme is
     known on board as the "super zig plan" and it really is that - the track
     on D.R.T. is most impressively haywire, but nevertheless accomplishes
     a predictable advance.
     Nearly went crazy in a fruitless effort to keep the dozens of junks
     in the vicinity at least "hull down" in an effort to avoid detection
     on lifeguard station. Before the first day was over, having
     convinced that this
     explored all parts of assigned sector, we were convinced that this
     was utterly impossible to achieve and restricted our efforts to
     avoiding actual danger of collision. Experiences of the remaining
     days in the area merely confirmed the wisdom of this philosophy.
2215 Submerged when aircraft on SJ at 15,000 yards closed rapidly on
     constant bearing.
2232 Surfaced.

5 March (21 - 41 N; 114 - 58 E)
0102 Aircraft on SJ (and SD) at 45,000 yards, - closed to 36,000 yards then
     opened out.
0437 Passed what appeared to be a floating mine. However, once lost to
     sight, the spotty visibility made it unlikely that we could sink a
     mine from safe range even if we found it again - which we might do
     the hard way - so continued on patrol. Position Lat 21 - 29
                                                      Long 114 - 50
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U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Second War Patrol.

F.
SHIP CONTACTS
No.: TIME : DATE : LAT. : LONG. : TYPE : INITIAL RANGE : EST. COURSE; HOW : SPEED : CONT. : REMARKS
                                                                                                R - Radar
                                                                                                P - Periscope
                                                                                                SD - Sighting day
                                                                                                SN - Sighting night

1 : 1512 H : 20 Feb. : 21-26 N : 121-49 E : Submerged SS (Jap) : Est. 5000 yds : UNK : UNK : R : Destroyed by gun fire.
2 : 0637 H : 5 March : 20-45 N : 114-23 E : Sampan : Est. 5000 yds. : 060° T : 10.5 kts. : R : Properly marked, not zig-zagging.
3 : 1954 H : 6 March : 21-13 N : 114-22 E : AH : 22,000 yds : 055° T : 10 kts. : P : Closed to about 3000 yards to identify.
4 : 0648 H : 14 March : 22-03 N : 115-37 E : BAIKIL MARU : Est. 18000 yds. : Var : Var : R : Contacted and avoided three times in an hour; not seen at 3000 yds.
5 : 2223 H : 20 March : Off CHINA and HAINAN : Unknown small fast craft, probably MTB : 6700 yds and 3050 yds : Var : Var : SN : Sighted almost daily off WAKE; in moon streak; no zig-zagging.
6 : 1528 L : 10 April : Off WAKE : Patrol craft, Sampan type : 8000 yds : Var : Var : P : Contacted again off WAKE; not zig-zagging.
7 : 0403 L : 16 April : 7 mi. N.W. WAKE IS. : apparently flooded down : 3650 yds. : 4.5 kts. : R : Reef at WAKE; not zig-zagging.

NOTE: Between 3 March and 24 March in the waters of CHINA and HAINAN, thousands
of typical CHINESE junks were encountered. They were of remarkably uniform
pattern with a very high poop, three masts and odd shaped slatted sails varying
from dark brown to almost white. They varied only in the combinations of rectangular
sometimes used. Initial radar ranges varied from 6000 - 18000 yards.

-41-

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— page 114 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION TWO FORTY ONE

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
23 April 1945.

FB5-241/A16-3
Serial # 015

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)
Report of Second War
Patrol dated

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

From: The Commander Submarine Division TWO FORTY ONE.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY FOUR.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet,
Administration.
The Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL - Report of War Patrol Number Two.

1. The second war patrol of the SEA OWL, conducted in Luzon
Straits, northern part of South China Sea, and off Wake Island, was of
71 days duration. Forty-nine days were spent in the areas.

2. The SEA OWL was a member of the coordinated attack group
seventeen point Fourteen with the Commanding Officer of U.S.S. SEA OWL
as C.T.G. 17.14.

3. An excellent coverage of the area resulted in only one
contact which could be attacked.

Attack #1
An early morning submerged attack was made on an Item 54 class
submarine (EU, 2800 tons) anchored off Wake. Fired 3 mark 18-1
torpedoes, range 1600 yards, depth set 12, 6, and 12 feet. One
torpedo hit between the conning tower and stern of the submarine
sinking it.

4. A coordinated bombardment by U.S.S. SEA OWL, PUFFER and
PIRANHA was made on Pratas Island causing some damage.

5. On February 20 while in Bashi Channel the SEA OWL was fired
upon by a submerged submarine. Two torpedo wakes and the submarine's
periscope were seen.

6. Many plane contacts were made. The SEA OWL depended prim-
arily on SJ radar, using it skillfully to determine if it was necessary
to dive to avoid the planes.

7. The Commanding Officer, Officers, and crew are congratulated
on the completion of this long patrol and the skill with which they stalked
and sank the Jap submarine.

[SIGNATURE: D. F. WILLIAMSON]

— page 115 —
FC5-24/A16-3
Serial: 085
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS-405)
Report of Second War
Patrol dated 21 April
1945.

From:
To : The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-FOUR.
Via : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
(1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet,
Administration.
(2) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL - Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the Commander
Submarine Division TWO HUNDRED FORTY-ONE.

2. The second patrol of the SEA OWL once again clearly
illustrates the necessity for cooperation and understanding between
planes and submarines if their actions are to be mutually beneficial.
Every effort must be made to keep communications channels under
control and to develop mutual understanding.

3. The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-FOUR congratulates
the Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the SEA OWL upon the comple-
tion of another long and arduous patrol. It is unfortunate that this
well planned and executed patrol by a fighting ship and skipper could
not have resulted in more opportunities to inflict damage on the enemy.

F. W. FENNO.
SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY-FOUR
11/dn
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
27 April 1945.

— page 116 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial 01023
CONFIDENTIAL
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SEA OWL Report of
Second War Patrol.

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
[STAMP: 4 MAY 1945] 3 May, 1945.
NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.
II

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 734
U.S.S. SEA OWL - SECOND WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Second War Patrol
(11 February to 21 April 1945).

1. The second war patrol of the SEA OWL, under the command of
Commander C.L. BENNETT, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the Luzon Straits and northern
part of South China Sea areas. On return to Midway a period of eight days was spent
off Wake Island. The Commanding Officer was also the group commander of a
coordinated attack group which included the PUFFER and the PIRANHA. Lifeguard
services were also rendered by this group.

2. This long arduous patrol was characterized by severe weather and
many small contacts, none worthy of torpedo fire. However, during period spent
off Wake Island, the SEA OWL had the extreme pleasure of contacting one enemy
supply submarine and sinking it. Patrol was well conducted and area coverage
was thorough.

3. Award of Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol is authorized.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
commanding officer, officers, and crew of the SEA OWL for adding another successful
patrol to her record, and for inflicting the following damage upon the enemy:

S U N K

1 - Supply Submarine (I-54-YUSEN Class) (EC) - 2,800 tons (Attack No. 1)

MERRILL COMSTOCK.

Distribution & Authentication
next page.
- 1 -

— page 117 —
SS405/A16-3
Serial: #021
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED] C-C-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California.

29 July 1945.
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: 010984] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/13/78]

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405).
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Submarine Division TWO EIGHTY-TWO.
(2) Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-EIGHT.
(3) Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405), Report of War Patrol number THREE.

Enclosures: (a) Subject report.
(b) Track Chart.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Third War Patrol of this vessel
conducted in the YELLOW and EAST CHINA SEAS during the period 20 May 1945 to
29 July 1945 is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: W C Hall Jr]
W. C. HALL, JR.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 136610]

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                               U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

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U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.
1247 Port shaft back in commission.
2041 Surfaced. Ran south for battery charge. Intend to make SJ sweep of
     REISUI KAIWAN, a possible anchorage, as soon as charge is near completion.
     (34-02 N; 128-23 E)
9 June
0215 Completed sweep of REISUI KAIWAN, found suspected anchorage vacant. Not
     even fishing boats about. Pulled clear.
0219 SJ contact bearing 110 T, range 18,000 yds. (S.C. #9). Commenced
     tracking. Target tracked on course 295 T, which course led North of
     HAKU TO from TSUSHIMA. Ten minutes of tracking revealed a second
     smaller pip 4000 yds on target's port bow. Called that the escort.
     Tracked from ahead, determined targets to be zigging not over 15°
     either side of base course 295 T, at speed between 7 and 8 knots, angle
     on bow 25 P. Headed north to attack from off side of escort. When
     A.O.B. was about zero; Radar reported pips to be of same height. Targets
     slow speed, nearly straight course, and the probability that we may
     have been sighted while running inshore of islands, led us to strongly
     suspect a submarine hunt. (At this point it begins to look as if they
     are going to find one). Decided now to make approach from deep water
     side, and from Westward to take advantage of dark background during
     morning twilight and for visual identification. Sunrise at 0518.
0415 Target in sight from bridge, range 10,000 yds. - long low silhouette.
     Definitely not Whale-Killer type.
0418 Submerged 4,000 yds. from track, range 9,300 yds., for periscope
     approach. No pinging from target.
0425 Target in sight through periscope, bearings checking.
0435 Target identified as TERUTSUKI Class DD. Second target in sight, range
     7,000 yds., signalling - same type DD as first target.
0437 Long scale pinging suspected by JP. A frequency search by QB quickly
     brings in strong pings on 28.4 KCS. (First heard as very high pitched
     squeak by CP).
0440 Came right for 70° Port track.
0445 Commenced firing three Mk. 18's, depth set 4 feet. Checked fire after
     third torpedo, let T.D.C. generate for 3 remaining Mk. 14's depth set
     6 feet. Got check set-up and resumed fire.
0446:20 Hit! Entire target appeared to blow up at the moment of impact,
     possibly indicating a magazine explosion. Flame and wreckage were

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

0456 Sighted three small Junks on horizon 040 T - 060 T.
0502 Changed course to 260 T to patrol along probable shipping lanes.
0743 Another small Junk sighted 334 T.
0800 Changed course to 100°T.
0830 With SHANTUNG PROMONTORY bearing 233 T, 42 miles, submerged to patrol
     lanes between that point and DAISEI GUNTO.
2012 Surfaced. Headed North to patrol off CHOSAN KAN and CHO TO - DAIREN
     route.
2120 SJ contact 325 T, 5,200 yds. Small Junk. The first of an increasing
     number of Junk contacts that kept us busy all night to avoid running
     them down. The ingenious true bearing repeater for SJ devised by
     L. "A" CAMPBELL, CEM(T) was completed today and proved its worth.
     See REMARKS.

18 June (38-04 N, 123-55 E)

0100 Commenced closing coast, still dodging Junks.
0155 Working South along coast. PPI is peppered with pips and pixies.
     This must be a favored fishing spot, they are even out in whale boats!
0430 We have finally reached the suburbs of JUNK HOLLOW. Heading Southwest
     for submerged patrol about 30 miles West of CHOSAN KAN.
0503 Submerged. Can't shake junks. They won the Battle of JUNK HOLLOW.
1025 Visibility decreasing due to haze and fog.
1410 Surfaced, in heavy fog. Heading toward SHANTUNG PROMONTORY.
1445 Came abruptly out of fog. Visibility unlimited.
1630 Sighted three small junks.
1658 Another small junk.
1845 Ran into another fog bank, visibility 500 yds.
1926 Took a close look at a typical junk radar contact of 6,000 yds. Could
     just make him out as we passed at 450 yds., sails down, anchored or
     lying to.

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.
(37-30 N; 123-08 E)

20 June
0000 Surfaced. Since they probably have some idea we are up here, decided
     to run Southeast toward CHOSAN KAN to intercept possible coastal traffic.
0215 Entered fog bank, still picking our way through the Junk fleet.
0245 Visibility improving.
0300 Intermittent SJ contact 086 T, 30,000 yds. This plots in off the coast
     North of CHOSAN KAN. Headed toward to investigate. Another SJ contact
     of the same type shows up intermittently at 120 T, about same range.
0315 Range now 20,000, pip still weak, cannot lobe switch. True bearing
     shows target very slow.
0327 Stationed Radar Tracking party. Size of pip shows small, disappointing
     target on course 200 T, speed 4 knots.
0341 Suspicions confirmed. A junk of the larger variety with sails up showed
     up after much hard looking on the target's bearing. Secured tracking.
     Reversed course. Range 8,000 yds.
0350 Took course to intercept possible shipping lanes between SHANTUNG
     PROMONTORY and CHOSAN KAN. Still avoiding Junks.
1202 With SHANTUNG PROMONTORY bearing 253 T, 22 miles range, headed East.
1336 Sighted biplane, D.VE or PLTE bearing 210 T, about 8 miles. He
     turned toward.
1337 Submerged.
1422 Patrolling along SHANTUNG - DAISEI GUNTO traffic lanes.
2054 Surfaced. Headed Northeast to patrol off DAISEI GUNTO and CHOSAN KAN.
2145 Challenged SJ Radar interference bearing 200 T, no reply.
2337 Avoided small Junk. Moon is very bright, visibility excellent.

21 June
(37-55 N; 123-58 E)
0000 Longest day of the year.
0008 SJ contact 074 T, 13,000 yds. (S.C. #21). Commenced tracking. Target's
     course 340 T, speed 4 kts. Closing target.

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

28 June
0639 Sank mine.
0700 Exploded mine.
0714 Sank mine.
0723 Exploded mine.
0741 Sank mine.
0810 Sank mine.
0854 Sank mine.
1107 Sank mine.
1131 Exploded mine.
1231 Exploded mine.
1841 Exploded mine.
2200 Visibility still poor, no sights.
     (34 - 01 N; 123 - 08 E)

29 June
1345 Momentary SJ contact, 040 T, 4,500 yds. Maneuvered to investigate,
     found nothing.
1427 Headed for DAIKOKUZAN GUNTO for a land fall and a fix.
1712 SJ contact 105 T, 9,700 yds. (S.C. #25) Will have to sight this
     target before firing. We are in PICUDA's area. Commenced tracking.
     Radar interference showed up at 7,000 yds. Exchanged recognition
     signals with TRUTTA, and apologized to them on VHF. Secured tracking.
1745 Made land fall on KO TO and headed West. We hope the TRUTTA didn't
     mind our poaching in her area for a fix.
2130 Visibility increased to 10 miles.

30 June
     (34 - 44 N; 121 - 48 E)
0657 Exploded mine.
0934 Submerged for patrol.

-23-

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

No. : DATE : TIME : LATITUDE : LONGITUDE : TYPE : INITIAL : COURSE : HOT : SPEED : REMARKS
: : : : : RANGE : CONTACT :
1 : 5/31 : 2335 I : 16-10 N : 144-49 E : 2 UN(friendly): 21,000 : : : : VOIDED.
2 : 6/6 : 0100 I : 29-20 N : 129-06 E : SS (SEGUNDO) : 10,000 : 050 : R.D.R : Exchanged recognition signals.
: : : : : : : : S - 12 :
3 : 6/6 : 0322 I : 30-12 N : 129-03 E : SS (U.S.)(?) : 12,000 : UN : R.D.R : Exchanged recognition signals.
4 : 6/6/45 : 2313 I : 32-24 N : 128-24 E : SS (TIRANTE) : 12,000 : UN : R.D.R : Exchanged recognition signals.
5 : 6/7 : 0200 I : 32-50 N : 127-57 E : SS (SEA DEVIL) : 13,000 : UN : R.D.R : Exchanged recognition signals.
6 : 6/7 : 0345 I : 33-16 N : 127-36 E : SS (SEA DEVIL) : 16,000 : 0-200 : R.D.R : Exchanged recognition signals.
: : : : : : : S - 10 :
7 : 6/7 : 2107 I : 34-51 N : 127-52 E : SS (SEA DEVIL) : 13,200 : 0 - 280 : R.D.R : Exchanged recognition signals.
: : : : : : : S - 12 :
8 : 6/7 : 2220 I : 35-02 N : 127-29 E : SS (FIDDLE) : 16,500 : UN : R.D.R : Exchanged recognition signals.
9 : 6/9 : 0219 I : 34-18 N : 127-18.5 E : DD TERUTSUKI : 18,000 : 095 : R.D.R : SUNK
: : : : : : : S - 8 :
10 : 6/11 : 0313 I : 33-38 N : 124-09 E : 2 UN(CHIDORI)(?) : 10,000 : 050 : R.D.R : VOIDED.
: : : : : : : S - 20 :
11 : 6/12 : 2240 I : 33-30 N : 121-00 E : JUNK : 1,000 : 180 : R.D.R : Tracked and investigated.
: : : : : : : S - 3 : : : Pulled clear.

-47-

— page 159 —
CONFIDENTIAL
(F) SHIP CONTACTS - Cont'd.
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol

No. | DATE | TIME | LATITUDE | LONGITUDE | TYPE | INITIAL RANGE | EST. COURSE & SPEED | CONTACT | REMARKS
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
12 | : 6/13 | : 0605 I | : 34-28 N | : 124-25 E | : SS (P.D.D.E) | : 10,000 | : C - 200 S - 10 | : R.D.R | : Exchanged recognition signals.
13 | : 6/13 | : 1500 I | : 35-37 N | : 125-36 E | : Four masted Schooner | : 20,000 | : C - 180 S - 3 | : Visual | : Destroyed.
14 | : 6/14 | : 0025 (I) | : 35-35 N | : 125-28 E | : SS (P.D.D.E) | : UN | : UN | : R.D.R | : Exchanged recognition signals.
15 | : 6/14 | : 0154 I | : 35-27 N | : 125-26 E | : Schooner pre- viously destroyed | : 30,000 | : C - 000 S - 5 | : R.D.R | : Tracked and identified.
16 | : 6/14 | : 0627 I | : 35-05 N | : 125-05 E | : Junk | : 20,000 | : UN | : Visual | : Investigated and avoided.
17 | : 6/14 | : 0845 I | : 34-59.5N | : 125-00 E | : Life Boat | : 8,000 | : UN | : Visual | : Disembarked two prisoners.
18 | : 6/14 | : 1157 I | : 34-41.3N | : 124-58.5 E | : SS (P.D.D.E) | : 15,000 | : UN | : Visual | : Exchanged recognition signals.
19 | : 6/16 | : 2119 I | : 36-40 N | : 124-56 E | : SS (P.D.D.E) | : UN | : UN | : R.D.R | : Exchanged recognition signals.
20 | : 6/17 | : 0234 I | : 37-35 N | : 124-28 N | : SS (U.S.) | : UN | : UN | : R.D.R | : Exchanged recognition signals.
21 | : 6/21 | : 0008 I | : 37-55 N | : 124-12 E | : P.C. | : 13,800 | : UN | : R.D.R | : Investigated and pulled clear.
22 | : 6/26 | : 0513 I | : 36-20 N | : 122-51 E | : P.C. | : 15,000 | : UN | : Visual | : Avoided.
23 | : 6/27 | : 0027 I | : 35-46 N | : 123-50 E | : P.C. | : UN | : UN | : Visual | : Exchanged recognition signals.

[HANDWRITTEN: -12-]

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U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol

No. | DATE | TIME | LATITUDE | LONGITUDE | TYPE | INITIAL RANGE | EST. COURSE & SPEED | CONTACT: | HOW CONTACTED | REMARKS
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
23 | 6/24 | 0342 I | 35-09 N | 122-54.5E | JUNKS (2) | 10,000 | UN | UN | R.D.R | Exchanged recognition signals.
24 | 6/27 | 1740 I | 35-12 N | 121-20 E | SS (TRUTT) | 9,700 | UN | UN | R.D.R | Exchanged recognition signals.
25 | 6/29 | 1712 I | 34-45 N | 121-05 E | (very large JUNK) | 12,000 | UN | UN | Visual | Investigated and interrogated.
26 | 7/1 | 0856 I | 34-40 N | 127-25 E | JUNK | 8,000 | UN | UN | Visual | via P.O.
27 | 7/1 | 2047 I | 33-43.3 N | 127-47.2E | SS (QUEENFISH) | UN | UN | UN | R.D.R | Exchanged recognition signals.
28 | 7/1 | 2250 I | 33-02.5 N | 127-47.5E | SS (THREADFIN) | 6,700 | UN | UN | R.D.R | Established V.H.F. communication.
29 | 7/7 | 0110 I | 23-31 N | 125-20 E | SS (SEA DEVIL) | 11,300 | UN | UN | R.D.R | Exchanged recognition signals.
30 | 7/8 | 0200 I | 31-31 N | 129-20 E | SS (UTIBACK) | 9,400 | UN | UN | R.D.R | Established V.H.F. communication.
31 | 7/8 | 1900 I | 31-36 N | 129-37 E | 2 HTB (JAP) | 5 miles | C 135° S 7.5 | UN | Visual | Boarded and inspected.
    | [HANDWRITTEN: Attacked - Submarine dove prior]
32 | 7/9 | 1840 I | 31-36 N | 130-15 E | 2 HTB (JAP) | 5 miles | UN | UN | Visual | avoided
33 | 7/9 | 2320 I | 31-22 N | 124-18 E | SS (SEA DEVIL) | 7,000 | UN | UN | R.D.R | Established V.H.F. communication.
34 | 7/11 | 0540 I | 31-22 N | 129-57 E | SS (UTIBACK) | 9,400 | UN | UN | Visual | Established V.H.F. communication.

-43-

— page 161 —
CONFIDENTIAL
(F) SHIP CONTACTS - Cont'd.
U.S.S. SE. OIL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

| NO. | DATE | TIME | LATITUDE | LONGITUDE | TYPE | INITIAL RANGE | EST.COURSE & SPEED | CONTACT | REMARKS |
|---|
| 36 | 7/12 | 2130 I | 31-32 N | 124-23 E | SS(QUILLBACK) | 10,000 | C 240° S 10 | R.D.R | Established V.H.F. communication. |
| 37 | 7/14 | 1550 I | 27-50 N | 129-26 E | SS(ARGONAUT) | 16,000 | UN | Visual | 6 torpedoes fired and missed with. |
| 38 | 7/15 | 0528 I | 25-18 N | 139-25 E | SS(TRUTTA) | 16,000 | UN | Visual | Established V.H.F. communication. |
| 39 | 7/16 | 1200 I | 20-29 N | 141-30 E | SS(F. EDDIE) | UN | UN | R.D.R | Exchanged recognition signals. |
| 40 | 7/16 | 2004 I | 21-18 N | 141-56 E | SS(SINDLANCE) | UN | UN | R.D.R | Exchanged recognition signals. |
| 41 | 7/17 | 0035 I | 23-48 N | 142-28 E | SS(STERLET) | UN | UN | R.D.R | Exchanged recognition signals. |

[HANDWRITTEN: -44-]

— page 162 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)
Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA OWL                                  TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1                               PATROL NO. 3
TIME: 0446 (I) DATE: 9 June 1945 Lat. 34 - 18 N; Long 127 - 18.5 E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION: Two DD patrolling on a line of bearing approximately 4,000 yds.
             apart. (Probably an A/S sweep). The target sunk was a TERUTSUKI
             CLASS DD: SJ radar contact was made at 13,000 yards.

Ship Sunk:   One TERUTSUKI CLASS DD.

Ships Damaged: None.

Damage Determined by: Saw target blow up.

Target Draft: 10'      Course: 300°      Speed: 7 3/4      Range: 1650

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed: 4 kts.          Course: 050°      Depth: 65'        Angle: 1°D

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Time Attack: SJ radar contact at 13,000 yds. Tracked target by radar and
             submerged 9,300 yards ahead of target. Continued approach
             using periscope bearings. Target was visible from bridge at
             10,000 yards.

[HANDWRITTEN: -45-]

— page 165 —
U.S.S. SEA O.T. (SS405)

CONFIDENTI L L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA O.T. (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

— page 169 —
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES.

The only anti-submarine measures encountered during this patrol were
those which followed the attack of 9 June 1945. Many depth charge patterns were
heard and felt, but none consistently close enough to indicate that the enemy
had positive contact on us. The running mate of the destroyer sunk at this time
was heard to use 28.4 Kc pinging prior to our attack. He shifted to 17.5 Kc
pinging immediately after target exploded. Although pinging was heard the rest
of the day, and occasionally an A/S vessel was sighted, we did not hear screws
on the sound gear after one and one half hour after the attack. Sound conditions
were poor for us, and evidently proved so for the enemy. The A/S vessels in
general searched toward deeper water as a team, rightly assuming that we would
go in that direction. The enemy reversed to the northward about ten hours after
the attack, while we continued on a southerly course.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

ENGINEERING DEFECTS:

1. 23 May 2100. Low main motor (port) bearing lub oil pressure.
   Repaired by 2200.

2. 3 June. Limit nuts of overspeed trip spring plunger on #2 Main Engine
   became loose, and screwed in, preventing an emergency air stoppage of
   this engine during a routine dive.

3. 8 June 1030. Port shaft out of commission due to overheated motor
   balancing rheostats. These rheostats are too small for the SS405
   class which has lower resistance fields than other direct drive subs.
   Back in commission at 1230.

4. 10 June 1630. Routine inspection disclosed a broken ball retainer in
   #1 Main Engine lub oil pump. Engine back in commission at 1200 11 June.

5. 12 June 0540. #4 Main Engine out of commission to work on faulty air
   stop. Back in commission at 0610.

6. 13 June 0048. Moving contact holder on starboard Main Motor rheostat
   broke. This was a holder made for us in Pearl Harbor to replace one
   which had worn out en route from States. 0235 Starboard shaft back
   in commission.

7. 15 June 2135. Starboard shaft out of commission due to jury rig repair
   made to starboard Main Motor rheostat moving contact holder. Back in
   commission at 2200.

-52-

— page 172 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. [UNCLEAR: SE. C.L.] (SS405)
Subject: U.S.S. [UNCLEAR: SE. C.L.] (SS405) Report of Third War Patrol

(N) MATERIAL FAILURES ON SOUND GEAR

Material failures on sound gear were normal with the exception of a
bearing failure in the starboard training motor generator and J.P. Hydrophone
cable.

No spare bearings were provided in operating spares and it was
necessary to borrow a bearing designed for a smaller load which was borrowed
from the U.S.S. [UNCLEAR: ]

The J.P. Hydrophone cable failure was due to insufficient clearance between
bulkhead stuffing tube and the training tube inside the
hull. The cable was badly frayed, and a
new cable and a permanent remedy will
be effected at the time of the flange
installation.

Sound conditions at the time of the attack on the [UNCLEAR: enemy] were very
bad. High noise level from the destroyer were very bad. Under those
conditions the J.P. Hydrophone was somewhat better than the J.P. [UNCLEAR: system]
however, was first to detect the pinging of the destroyers. A barely audible
high pitched squeak heard by J.P. was reported as possible pinging. A
frequency sweep on CB checked this by detecting pinging on 28.4 kcs.

Most of the remainder of the patrol was made in shallow water with
high background noise.

On 8 July in vicinity S.W. KYUSHU and again on 12 July at posit
29-30N, 131-13E large negative gradients were encountered at about 60 ft.
under an isothermal layer and gave J.P. a range of about 6,000 yards on two
submarines encountered on these respective dates. The new permanent magnet
Hydrophone has not as yet been installed. It is believed that ranges will be
considerably improved with this addition.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS

Large density layers were found in all parts of areas 9 and 12. The
largest are listed below:

Card# | Layer Depth | Temp at Layer Depth | Gradient | Date | Time | Lat. | Long.
------||||------|------||
3     | 20'         | 61°                | 15°      | 6/15 | 0300 | 36-34 N  | 125-06 E
8     | 45'         | 62°                | 23°      | 6/23 | 0200 | 37-11 N  | 123-19 E
10    | 60'         | 64°                | 21°      | 6/24 | 0800 | 36-51 N  | 123-28 E
17    | 30'         | 76°                | 21°      | 7/6  | 1140 | 34-50 N  | 125-55 E

-55-

— page 174 —
U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol.

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
| | Torpedoes | Fuel | Provisions | Personnel Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| On arrival SAIPAN | 10 | 4,000 gals. | 10 days | 15 days |

Limiting factor this patrol - - Dispatch Orders, ComSubsPac Serial 48.

(U) COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES

Communications in general were satisfactory on all frequencies while in
this area. There were no indications of intentional jamming on any of the circuits,
rather it is believed that the few difficulties encountered were due to heavily
loaded circuits.

V.H.F. communications were fair. Some difficulty was encountered due to
erratic operation of SEA OWL's V.H.F. equipment.

During the period when on lifeguard, the C.A.P. assigned to SEA OWL
was seen only once. On this occasion the C.A.P. was contacted by means of V.H.F.,
and vectored from their position to an overhead station.

This experience indicated a need for an improvement in V.H.F. equipment
which would allow reliable communications with aircraft over a range of about
60 miles without loading the lifeguard frequency. With such equipment in operation,
submarines on lifeguard would be able to assist their air cover in reaching
proper station, in cases where the C.A.P. has had difficulty in maintaining an
accurate D.R.

Jamming was encountered on 3095 Kcs from time 0900 Z to 1050 Z in the
vicinity of 27-07 N; 139-25 E when en route to SAIPAN. Jamming consisted of
an assortment of noises which sounded like scrambled and inverted speech
combined with a clock tick coming on and going off at irregular intervals. The
signal was S5 and was about 95 percent effective on an S3 signal. During this
same period Armed Forces Radio Service was heard on the same frequency, but
station call was not heard.

Radar Countermeasures.

SEA OWL notes a considerable difference in intercepts of Radar signals
this patrol as against First Patrol which was conducted in portions of present
area. Very few airborne radars were encountered this patrol and a large increase
in the number of land based signals was noted.

-57-

— page 178 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION TWO EIGHTY TWO
c/o Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, Calif.

FB5/282/A16-3

Serial (025) 2 August 1945.

C O N F I D E N T I A L

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO SEA OWL Conf. Ltr.
SS405/A16-3, serial 021
of 29 July 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Division TWO EIGHTY TWO.
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY EIGHT.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405), Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

1. On her third war patrol U.S.S. SEA OWL was a member of
co-ordinated Attack Group 17.19 (Lt. Comdr. G. L. STREET, in
Tirante, Group Commander). The overall length of the patrol was
seventy one days, broken by fueling stops enroute to and returning
from area. Thirty six days were spent in the assigned area,
Yellow and East China Seas, fifteen of them submerged. The patrol
was terminated by orders of Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.

2. Except for numerous sailing craft no enemy merchant
or logistic shipping was sighted. Ten enemy men of war, varying
from motor torpedo boats to destroyers, were encountered. There
were numerous aircraft contacts, most of them friendly. Of the
thirty five floating mines discovered all but seven were destroyed.
SEA OWL experienced the freakish radar performance that is charact-
eristic of these areas. On the whole sound conditions were not
good, a pronounced gradient near the surface limited the usefulness
of sonar. Enemy echo ranging at 28.4 kilocycles was heard.

3. In the early hours of 9 June radar contact was establish-
ed at 18,000 yards. Two hours later, after deliberate tracking and
careful analysis of the radar picture had indicated that the enemy
consisted of two ships, probably engaged in an anti submarine sweep,
SEA OWL submerged in a position well calculated to preserve the
advantages of visibility and deeper water. At 0445 the near target,
now identified as a TERUTSUKI class destroyer, was attacked from
an excellent position with three mark 18 torpedoes and a second
salvo of three mark 14 torpedoes (Torpedo Attack Number One).
One torpedo, probably the second, hit and demolished the target.
A long, persistent but ineffective counter attack followed.

4. On the afternoon of 13 June SEA OWL destroyed a large
four masted, rice laden schooner in an uncontested gun action (Gun
Attack Number One). Being of wooden construction this target did
not sink but was left derelict. Four prisoners were recovered,
two of whom were subsequently released.
-1-

— page 179 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION TWO EIGHTY TWO
c/o Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, Calif.

FB5/282/A16-3
Serial (125) 2 August 1945

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO SEA OWL Conf. ltr SS405/A16-3,
serial 021 of 29 July 1945.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405), Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

5. On 2 July, displaying admirable initiative and aided
by an alert lookout, SEA OWL had the satisfaction of rescuing two
officers and four enlisted men. Communications and co-operation
between planes and submarine were unusually good through this
smartly conducted operation.

6. In the late afternoon of 8 July, while submerged on
lifeguard station, SEA OWL sighted an enemy submarine. After a
cautious approach in a flat calm sea a favorable attack position
was attained, but at the last possible moment the enemy saved her-
self by diving.

7. On 12 July, after quitting the area, an enemy submarine
was detected by the high periscope lookout. SEA OWL maneuvered for
position on enemy track and dived for submerged attack. At 1710,
from a near perfect firing position, the enemy was attacked with
a salvo of three mark 18 torpedoes followed immediately by a salvo
of three mark 14 torpedoes, none of which hit (Torpedo attack Number
Two). The alerted enemy submerged before the stern tubes could be
brought to bear.

8. Both torpedo attacks were well planned and aggressive-
ly prosecuted. The expenditure of torpedoes was somewhat prodigal
but under conditions now existing in most areas a high rate of
enemy ships sunk per attack must be achieved. In the opinion of the
Division Commander an extravagant use of torpedoes as the command-
ing officer considers necessary to achieve this end is justified.
In the first attack the spread used was adequate both as to extent
and density. In the second attack the density of the center of the
spread might well have been reduced and the extent correspondingly
increased. The commanding officer ascribes the failure of the sec-
ond attack to faulty torpedo depth performance. The division com-
mander is more inclined to suspect a control error, probably range
and speed, or duds. On both occasions a mixed salvo of mark 18 and
14 torpedoes was fired, a practice which effectively nullifies the
great advantages of the mark 18 torpedo and complicates the control
problem during the firing interval when precision is most important.

-2-

— page 181 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY EIGHT

FC5-28/A16-3
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
Serial: 0174
4 August 1945.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO SEA OWL Conf. ltr.
SS405/A16-3 serial 021
dated 29 July 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY EIGHT.
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(2) The Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) -- Report of War Patrol No. 3.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the Commander Submarine
Division TWO EIGHTY-TWO.

2. The remarks concerning a mixed torpedo salvo, paragraph 8 of the
first endorsement, are considered to be particularly pertinent. The intervals
between the third and fourth torpedoes of the two salvos fired were fifty and
forty-four seconds respectively. It is possible that the poor spread distribution
of torpedoes obtained in the attack on the RO class submarine on 12 July was a result
of the preoccupation inherent to changing the torpedo data computer set-up from
Mk. 18 to Mk. 14 tactical characteristics. It is considered that the added risk of
detection and the increased possibility of fire control errors are disadvantages
which far overshadow any possible advantages of firing torpedoes with different
tactical characteristics in the same salvo, and that best results may be expected
when all of the torpedoes in a torpedo room are the same type.

3. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, officers
and crew of SEA OWL on their aggressively conducted and productive patrol.

4. It is recommended that the SEA OWL be credited with the following:

SUNK

One (1) TETSUIKI (DD) 2300 tons
One (1) MS (Schooner) 300 tons
TOTAL 2600 tons.

[SIGNATURE: J. H. Willingham, Jr.]
J. H. WILLINGHAM, Jr.

— page 182 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial 01983
CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT
SEA OWL Report of
Third War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 845
U.S.S. SEA OWL - THIRD WAR PATROL.

From:
To :
Via :
Subject:

1.
tenant Commander W. C. Hall, Jr., U.S. Navy, was conducted in the Yellow and
East China Sea areas. The SEA OWL was a member of a coordinated attack group
under the command of the commanding officer of the U.S. TIRANTE (SS420).

2. This patrol was devoted to both lifeguard duties and offensive
patrol. Two torpedo attacks and one gun attack were made. A well conducted
approach and smart tactics in the first attack resulted in the sinking of what
was estimated to be a TERUTSUKI Type destroyer. The second attack was made on
an enemy submarine and unfortunately was unsuccessful. Another enemy submarine
was contacted during this patrol but dove just as the attack was about to be
made. The determined, thorough performance of lifeguard duties by the SEA OWL
was rewarded with the pleasure of rescuing six friendly aviators. One well
conducted gun attack accounted for a four masted schooner from which the SEA
OWL brought in two prisoners of war.

3. Award of Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol is authorized.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates
the commanding officer, officers, and crew of the SEA OWL for this successful,
aggressive patrol. The SEA OWL is credited with having inflicted the follow-
ing damage upon the enemy during this patrol:

S U N K

1 - DD (TERUTSUKI Type) (EU)
1 - MIS (Four Masted Schooner) (EC)

TOTAL SUNK

Authentication and distribution
on following page.

- 1 -[HANDWRITTEN: SORG]
[HANDWRITTEN: nr]
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
8 August 1945.

NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.

The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol
(20 May to 29 July 1945).

The third war patrol of the SEA OWL, under the command of Lieu-

2,300 tons (Attack No. 1)
300 tons (Gun Attack No. 1)

2,600 tons

MERRILL COMSTOCK,
Deputy.

— page 183 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial 01983
CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SEA OWL Report of
Third War Patrol.

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 845
U.S.S. SEA OWL - THIRD WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA OWL (SS405) - Report of Third War Patrol
(20 May to 29 July 1945).

— page 184 —
END OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 14108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AP 186-76]
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THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, with an eagle]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

D-62264