U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS-197) — war patrol report SS-197_SEAWOLF_Part1.pdf

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JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108]
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OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: Hancock]

DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 2/25/76]

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

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MICROFILMED BY
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MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET. START & END
NAVEXOS 3888

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Office of Naval Records and History
Ships' Histories Section
Navy Department

HISTORY OF THE USS SEAWOLF (SS 197)

This story has 80 heroes and one heroine. The heroes are the
officers and men of an American submarine. The heroine is the ship
herself. More than 300 feet long, with eight torpedo tubes and a
surface speed of better than 20 knots, she was commissioned 1 December
1939. Since that day, she led an exciting and secret life. During her
fifteen war patrols she sank approximately 110,000 tons of enemy ship-
ping, covering practically the whole of the known Pacific shipping
routes.

It all began at the Portsmouth Navy Yard in New Hampshire. There,
the sleek, cylindrical ship was launched 15 August 1939. Her sponsor
was Mrs. Edward Kalbfus, wife of Rear Admiral Edward C. Kalbfus, USN
(Retired).

Four and one half months later, 1 December 1939, the commission-
ing pennant was run up the mast, Lieutenant Frederick B. Warder
published his orders as commanding officer and the first watch was set,
officially installing the SEAWOLF as a unit of the U. S. Navy.

SEAWOLF is the second vessel of the United States Fleet to bear
the name. The first was authorized 3 March 1909 and her name was
changed to USS H-1, 17 November 1911. She was launched 6 May 1913 and
placed in commission 1 December 1913 at the Navy Yard, Mare Island,
California. She operated with the Pacific Submarine Fleet from the
time of commissioning until 1917 when she was based at Key West,
Florida, and in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 1918. She grounded off
Santa Margarita Island, Lower California, 12 March 1920 and sank
during salvage operations 12 days later on 24 March.

After Commissioning, the second SEAWOLF left Portsmouth for her
shakedown cruise. This maiden voyage took the submarine to the ports
of New York, New York; Tampa, Florida; Galveston, Texas; Corpus
Christi, Texas; Coco Solo, Canal Zone; and Annapolis, Maryland during
the month of April and June 1940. The SEAWOLF proved her worth and
her crew set a standard they were to follow.

After shakedown, the SEAWOLF was assigned to the Pacific with her
home port in San Diego.

December 7th, 1941 found the SEAWOLF at Manila on routine patrol.
Immediately the word was flashed and on 8 December the SS-197 began
her first war patrol of World War II.

Coins of all denominations flashed over the side and into the
water, in keeping with one of the many traditions which are so deeply
rooted and have such a part in the submarine service. Their luck so
assured, the men of the SEAWOLF took her down, and went hunting. The
searching prow of the sub nosed around Northern Luzon, Babuyan Channel.
and Bojeador Cape. Then on 14 December in the aft torpedo room four
"tin-fish" of the tubes signalled the departure of four tin-fish. Skipper
Warder got a last glimpse of the target, a Japanese seaplane-tender,

— page 3 —
- 2 - (USS SEAWOLF)

before the submarine dove. Scant seconds later, engine room men heard
four muffled explosions. On the bottom - quiet reigned. But not for
long; the concussion of nearby exploding depth charges shook the
SEAWOLF. For 60 plodding minutes the sickening boom of "cans" jarred
the dormant submarine and then heavy silence again filled the ship.
At last, assured that the angry surface vessels had gone their way,
the SEAWOLF crept to the top, and finding the coast clear--returned to
her home port.

After refueling and rearming, the Sea Wolves started on their
second war patrol. En route from Manila Bay to Port Darwin, Australia,
she spent 31 days in submerged operations but sighted no enemy ships.

From 16 January 1942 until 7 February the SEAWOLF was on her third
war patrol covering the territory en route to Darwin, Australia,
Corregidor, and Surabaya, Java, carrying a cargo of .50 caliber anti-
submarine ammunition. Several Japanese destroyers were sighted during
this patrol but it was deemed advisable not to attack these sub killers.
Aside from this encounter, the patrol was an uneventful one with the
ammunition cargo unloaded at Corregidor and passengers safely debarked
at Surabaya.

War Patrol No. 4 was more successful than the proceeding cruises.
During this patrol--from 15 February to 7 April 1942--the SEAWOLF
covered the Surabaya and Java Sea areas, the southern approaches to
Sunda Strait, the Australian-Sunda traffic lanes, and the waters
surrounding Christmas Island. SEAWOLF's skipper later reported that
during this sortie, the SS-197 was in a number of "tight spots" and
suffered a number of mechanical casualties.

Contact with the enemy occurred on 19 February, 25 February, 31
March and 1 April. One Jap transport, target for two of the SEAWOLF's
torpedoes on 19 February was observed with a starboard list and down
by the stern, escorted by four Jap destroyers. Another enemy trans-
port, at anchor at the time, was attacked by the SEAWOLF with unknown
results. Other Jap ships attacked included one large transport and
destroyer on 25 February; one enemy light cruiser, which subsequently
retaliated with a depth charge attack; one Natori-type cruiser and
one Jintau-type cruiser, both on 1 April. On February 25 two Asashio
destroyers harried the SEAWOLF in a four-hour attack. Many times
destroyers ran over the submarine without dropping charges, being
ignorant of their immediate proximity. SEAWOLF received credit for
sinking a transport and damaging a freighter, three light cruisers,
and two transports. For this she received the Navy Unit Commendation.

From 12 May to 2 July 1942, the SEAWOLF was engaged in waging
an offensive patrol against enemy combatant supply and transport
ships in the Philippine area; and to determine the major ports of
collection and traffic routes which the Japs were using to strip the
islands of their wealth. She patrolled off Manila and Subic Bay un-
til 16 June, then moved South.

Patrolling for four days, within a radius of 20 miles from
Corregidor, she was subjected to frequent depth charging by both es-
corts and patrol vessels before favorable attack positions could be
reached. On three occasions the SEAWOLF was depth charged by two
enemy merchantmen after launching successful torpedo attacks. During

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- 3 - (USS SEAWOLF)

the patrol she attacked one 5000-ton armed freighter; one 7000-ton
armed freighter; one 2000-ton mine layer, one destroyer of the
Amagiri class; one 5000-ton vessel of the Maru type; one 4500-ton
freighter and one 2500-ton freighter. Only one of these freighters
was a "sure kill."

Given the job of attacking enemy combatant, supply and transport
ships in the vicinity of Sibutu Pass and the Western Celebes Sea, the
SEAWOLF was in the area for 51 days from 25 July to 15 September on
her sixth war patrol. On this hunt she destroyed the USS WENCHOW, a
3100-ton Jap freighter on 15 August; and one 5000-ton tanker on 25
August. She also damaged a 7000-ton tanker.

One Tidori Class destroyer was in sight for several hours on 9
August, but the SEAWOLF was unable to attack. She also was unsuccess-
ful in an attack on a 5000-ton Jap tanker.

Patrol No. 7 found the SEAWOLF patrolling in the Davao Gulf area
off Palay, Yap Island. She ran up quite a score. She sank one
freighter of 3500-tons; a freighter transport of 4000-tons, for a total
of 7510-tons. Ships damaged include one freighter of 5000-tons.
The successful attack on the 900-ton silk liner anchored off Talomo
Wharf was believed to be the first instance in which an American sub-
marine operated for any appreciable period in waters as confining as
those of Davao Gulf.

On 11 November trouble with the main generator cables almost forced
the skipper to abandon the patrol. Subsequent improvement in their
condition, however, prompted him to patrol waters around Yap on 15
and 16 November before proceeding to Pearl Harbor.

At Pearl Harbor, extensive repairs were made and skipper Warden
was relieved by Commander R. L. Gross. Upon termination of her stay
at Pearl Harbor, the submarine started on her eighth Prowl of the war.
This cruise was terminated early because of the expenditure of all the
torpedoes. Jap shipping sunk totalled 13,050-tons for this period
including one freighter of 10,000-tons; 1 tanker of 2000-tons; 1
destroyer of 900-tons and two sampans of 150-tons each. The first
attack, made on a larger escorted freighter was typical of the entire
patrol.

The intermittent clang of the gong, the pad of rubber-soled shoes
to battle stations, the murmur and bustle of intense and closely
coordinated activity, the commanding officer standing near the peri-
scope cylinder as it slides up to eye level, tense waiting--relieved
by the calm but terse orders issued by the skipper as the big 3000-
pound fish slid into their tubes--quietness, broken only by the voices
of the five-man plotting team--then: FIRE ONE! In the torpedo room
the command is heard. A valve is twisted and with a whoosh of air
the missile of death leaves the boat. FIRE TWO! FIRE THREE! FIRE
FOUR! Up in the conning tower the skipper gives the command "up
periscope." Quickly he scans the waters--directly ahead are four
streaks of water rather thin, white bubbly lines, like fluid ice, cold
as the death they presage; against the ship's side they explode with
appalling concussion and a wild flash of flame. Immediately the long,
sleek shadows of destroyers dart toward the origin of the wake and
the skipper gives the command "Rig for depth charging and silent

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- 4 - (USS SEAWOLF)

running!" The last sight he has is a destroyer wheeling in a hard
turn and a black silhouette came hurtling into the water. Then muffled
explosions shake the boat and send men sprawling. At last the bottom,
and men listening, and finding it quite unnecessary to listen, for the
horrible boom of the cans which shatter light bulbs and nerves. Long,
long hours and finally silence. Everyone takes a deep breath and the
commanding officer says, "OK, boys, let's go up and have a smoke."

After a brief rest, the SEAWOLF and her crew returned again to
the fracas, this time running the length of the China Sea from Formosa
to Nagasaki. This patrol, which was the ninth of her war career,
lasted 57 days and resulted in the sinking of one passenger freighter
of 4317-tons and one 75-ton sampan. She also damaged an escort
vessel of 1000-tons. Of the seven contacts made on this patrol, five
were on large convoys.

Turning to the East China Sea, the score for the tenth patrol
amounted to one freighter of 8500-tons; one freighter of 6600-tons;
and two sampans of 150-tons each. The SS-197 made contact with a
six-ship convoy on the third day in the patrol area. She attacked
day and night for three days, using all her torpedoes and finally sur-
facing to sink the 6600-ton freighter with her 3-inch gun. Having ex-
hausted her torpedo supply, she headed for her base, having been in
the area for only five days. Again a potent weapon, she reentered the
patrol area on 29 August; three days later encountering the real
"find" of the patrol, the five freighters escorted by a Chidori and a
small trawler. She attacked at 0655 on 31 August and in less than
48 hours later all her torpedoes were gone.

War Patrol No. 11 took place in the South China Sea from 5
October to 27 November 1943. The attacks, all made at night using
radar fire control, resulted in the sinking of one 4000-ton minesweeper
and one cargo vessel of 10,000-tons. One 5000-ton freighter was
damaged.

Back in the East China Sea north of Formosa, the SEAWOLF's
twelfth war patrol covered the period from 22 December 1943 to 27
January 1944. She was credited with sinking 24,000-tons of enemy
shipping, including one 10,000-ton passenger freighter. In addition,
she damaged 14,000 tons of Jap shipping including a 6000-ton freighter
in a gun attack.

In a seven ship convoy attack on the night of 10 January, the
SEAWOLF sank three ships and damaged a fourth. With but three tor-
pedoes remaining, the SEAWOLF engaged another convoy, successfully
blowing up a freighter that was loaded with gasoline.

SEAWOLF's thirteenth war patrol was conducted in the Palau area
from 4 June to 7 July 1944, her primary job to close the shore line
and conduct a special photographer connaissance. This she did sussess-
fully despite heavy air and surface anti-submarine units. Although
not on lifeguard duty at the time, the SEAWOLF rescued two downed
Navy fliers on 21 June. No targets worthy of torpedo fire were con-
tacted on this patrol. On her fourteenth patrol, she delivered cargo
to guerrilla activities in the Philippines.

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- 4 - (USS SEAWOLF)

running!" The last sight he has is a destroyer wheeling in a hard
turn and a black silhouette came hurtling into the water. Then muffled
explosions shake the boat and send men sprawling. At last the bottom,
and men listening and finding it quite unnecessary to listen, for the
horrible boom of the cans which shatter light bulbs and nerves. Long,
long hours and finally silence. Everyone takes a deep breath and the
commanding officer says, "OK, boys, let's go up and have a smoke."

After a brief rest, the SEAWOLF and her crew returned again to
the fracas, this time running the length of the China Sea from Formosa
to Nagasaki. This patrol, which was the ninth of her war career,
lasted 57 days and resulted in the sinking of one passenger freighter
of 4317-tons and one 75-ton sampan. She also damaged an escort
vessel of 1000-tons. Of the seven contacts made on this patrol, five
were on large convoys.

Turning to the East China Sea, the score for the tenth patrol
amounted to one freighter of 8500-tons; one freighter of 6600-tons;
and two sampans of 150-tons each. The SS-197 made contact with a
six-ship convoy on the third day in the patrol area. She attacked
day and night for three days, using all her torpedoes and finally sur-
facing to sink the 6600-ton freighter with her 3-inch gun. Having ex-
hausted her torpedo supply, she headed for her base, having been in
the area for only five days. Again a potent weapon, she reentered the
patrol area on 29 August; three days later encountering the real
"find" of the patrol, the five freighters escorted by a Chidori and a
small trawler. She attacked at 0655 on 31 August and in less than
48 hours later all her torpedoes were gone.

War Patrol No. 11 took place in the South China Sea from 5
October to 27 November 1943. The attacks, all made at night using
radar fire control, resulted in the sinking of one 4000-ton minesweeper
and one cargo vessel of 10,000-tons. One 5000-ton freighter was
damaged.

Back in the East China Sea north of Formosa, the SEAWOLF's
twelfth war patrol covered the period from 22 December 1943 to 27
January 1944. She was credited with sinking 24,000 tons of enemy
shipping, including one 10,000-ton passenger freighter. In addition,
she damaged 14,000 tons of Jap shipping including a 6000-ton freighter
in a gun attack.

In a seven ship convoy attack on the night of 10 January, the
SEAWOLF sank three ships and damaged a fourth. With but three tor-
pedoes remaining, the SEAWOLF engaged another convoy, successfully
blowing up a freighter that was loaded with gasoline.

SEAWOLF's thirteenth war patrol was conducted in the Palau area
from 4 June to 7 July 1944, her primary job to close the shore line
and conduct a special photographer connaissance. This she did success-
fully despite heavy air and surface anti-submarine units. Although
not on lifeguard duty at the time, the SEAWOLF rescued two downed
Navy fliers on 21 June. No targets worthy of torpedo fire were con-
tacted on this patrol. On her fourteenth patrol, she delivered cargo
to guerrilla activities in the Philippines.

— page 7 —
5
SEAWOLF

SEAWOLF, then under the command of Lt. Commander Albert L.
Bontien left Brisbane on 21 September beginning her 15th war
patrol and arrived at Manus on 29 September. Leaving Manus on
the same day, she was directed to carry stores and Army person-
nel to the east coast of Samar.

On 3 October SEAWOLF and NARWHAL exchanged radar recognition
signals at 0756. Later the same day an enemy submarine attack
was made at latitude 2 degrees and 32 minutes North-Longitude 129
degrees and 18 minutes East which resulted in the sinking of the
USS SHELTON. Since there were four friendly submarines in the
vicinity of the attack, they were directed to give their positions,
and the other three did, but SEAWOLF was not heard from. On 4
October, SEAWOLF was again directed to report her position and
again there was no answer.

The USS ROWELL, a destroyer escort, and an aircraft in the
area attacked a submarine in the vicinity of the attack on the
SHELTON, having at that time no knowledge of any friendly sub-
marines in the area, and it was thought that SEAWOLF was possibly
the submarine attacked.

The report from ROWELL indicated that an apparently lethal
attack was conducted in conjunction with a plane which marked the
spot with dye. ROWELL established sound contact on the submarine,
which then sent long dashes and dots which bore no resemblance to
the existing recognition signals. After one of the several
hedgehog attacks, a small amount of debris and a large bubble
were seen. It has been established that the submarine RO-41
(Japanese) which sank SHELTON on 3 October, was able to return
to Japan.

In view of the above facts, and the fact that there is no
attack listed in the Japanese report of anti-submarine attack
which could account for the loss of the SEAWOLF, it is possible
that she was sunk by friendly forces in an anti-submarine
attack or that she was lost due to an operational casualty or as
a result of an unrecorded enemy attack.

On 28 December 1944, the Navy Department's Office of Public
Information announced in communique No. 564, "The Submarine USS
SEAWOLF is overdue from patrol and presumed lost. Next of kin
of casualties have been informed."

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-6- USS SEAWOLF (SS 197)

USS SEAWOLF earned two Navy Unit Commendations, one for her
4th war patrol and one for her 7th, 10th, and 12th war patrols.
The citations follow:

"For outstanding heroism in action during the Fourth
War Patrol in enemy Japanese-controlled waters of the
Southwest Pacific. Operating dangerously during a period
when Japanese naval and air power was at its height, the
USS SEAWOLF boldly tracked her targets into treacherously
confined and shallow waters to launch in rapid succession
one smashing attack after another on heavily escorted
convoys and vital enemy combatant units. Undeterred by
inevitable countermeasures, she struck damagingly to sink
or damage thousands of tons of shipping including Japanese
cruisers and transports, a freighter and a destroyer, re-
turning persistently to the attack despite exceptionally
severe depth charging which started numerous leaks, broke
her instruments and put vital machinery out of action.
Highly vulnerable during prolonged periods of relentless
attack in perilously shallow waters, the SEAWOLF escaped
destruction only by the skill, courage and superb seaman-
ship of her gallant officers and men which enabled her to
surface and retire from the scene of action after twenty-
one hours of submergence and nearly two full days at battle
stations. "

The second citation reads as follows:

"For outstanding heroism in action against enemy Japanese
shipping during her Seventh War Patrol in the Davao Gulf,
Palau and Yap areas, from October 7 to December, 1942;
her Tenth War Patrol in the East China Sea from August 14
to September 15, 1943 and her Twelfth War Patrol in the East
China Sea December 22, 1943 to January 27, 1944. Persistent
and daring, the USS SEAWOLF penetrated the mouths of enemy-
held harbors in bold pursuit of hostile shipping. Striking
fiercely in the face of severe depth charges, aerial bombs
and gun fire, she launched a series of brilliant attacks
which destroyed eleven cargo ships and extensively damaged
two freighters. After exhausting all torpedoes, the SEAWOLF
tenaciously pursued and demolished by gun fire one enemy
ship and turned another back into the attack range of a
friendly submarine. Her outstanding performance in combat
attests the skill and superb teamwork of her courageous
officers and men and reflect the highest credit upon her-
self and the United States Naval Service."

USS SEAWOLF also earned thirteen Battle Stars on the Asiatic-
Pacific Area Service Medal for participating in the following
operations:

— page 9 —
-7 DSC SEAWOLF (SS 197)

1 Star/Ph. Island Operation -- 8 to 20 December 1941 and 10
to 20 February 1942

1 Star/Netherlands East Indies Engagements
Badoung Strait -- 19 - 20 February 1942

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 15 February to 7 April 1942

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 12 May to 2 July 1942

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 25 July to 15 September 1942

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 7 October to 1 December 1942

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 3 April to 3 May 1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 17 May to 12 July 1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 11 August to 15 September
1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 5 October to 27 November 1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 22 December 1943 to 27
January 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 8 August to 23 August 1944

1 Star/Marianas Operation
Battle of Philippine Sea -- 19 and 20 June 1944

STATISTICS

OVERALL LENGTH 311 feet
BEAM 27 feet
SPEED 21 knots
DISPLACEMENT 1450 tons

— page 10 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 202

S9197/A16-3
Serial 0-29
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U. S. S. SEAWOLF (SS197)

December 26, 1941.

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander Submarines, U.S. Asiatic Fleet.

Via : Commander Submarine Division Two Hundred Two.
FIRST (U)
Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of [UNCLEAR: War] Patrol B - 26 December 1941.

Enclosures: (A) Report of War Patrol Parts A to J.
            (B) Track Charts.

1. The enclosures are forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: illegible squiggle]
F. B. WARDER

[STAMP: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 40204]

— page 11 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

REPORT OF FIRST WAR PATROL

AREAS
First - Longitude 124° 35'
Second - BABUYAN CHANNEL
Third - BOJEADOR CAPE

Period from December 8, 1941 to December 26, 1941.

Zone time kept -8

Report follows in succeeding pages: A- Narrative
B- Weather
C- Tidal Information
D- Navigational Aids
E- Description of Ships Sighted
F- Aircraft Sighted
G- Attacks
H- Enemy A/S Measures
I- Major Defects and Casualties
J- General Remarks

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED NARA 5510 1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: 716]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1-24-66]

— page 12 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. NARRATIVE.

December 8, 1941
1700 Under way with convoy as directed.
2012 Entered mine field. Practice of Army searchlights illuminating buoys,
     sky and vessels, should be stopped. This procedure blinded bridge personnel
     and could have revealed presence of darkened ships to vessels which might
     have been off entrance, or to planes in air. Starlit sky, 5% clouds, sea
     calm, landmarks and buoys readily visible, no light necessary.
2120 Cleared mine field and proceeded towards patrol area via Verde Island Pass
     astern of convoy.
2130 Moonrise, Half-moon waning.
2200 Received signal from convoy commander to commence zig-zagging (Plan No. 1).
     Navigational lights on route to be lighted (Entirely unnecessary -
     bright night, visibility 15,000 yards.
     Zig-zag delayed convoy considerably.

December 9, 1941
     Notified SCULPIN on mid-watch to drop astern of me 5 miles and to dive about
     0450, submerged speed 2.5, to rejoin at end of evening twilight. Notified
     convoy commander of my action which was in accordance with verbal instruc-
     tions Comsubs (Convoy commander had previously placed SCULPIN ahead of me).
0455 Submerged to 63 feet with VERDE ISLAND South 2 miles and laid course for
     BALTASAR ISLAND light, maintaining sound and periscope patrol, coming to 55
     feet for radio skeds (Nothing but static on loop). Sea moderate, few white-
     caps. No oil or air leaks apparent. Wind freshened during morning watch
     and calmed during forenoon.
1031 Sighted small inter-island steamer on starboard beam, 5 miles, opposite
     course.
1247 Went to 120 feet account sea condition and remained there except for radio
     skeds. During first dog watch heard SCULPIN propellers twice, once at 120
     rpm and once at 102 rpm, relative bearing 185°. Could not hear her when she
     ran slow. No estimate of range. Should have been about 5 miles.
1727 Sunset.
1808 Surfaced in almost complete darkness and encountered rain squalls - sky over-
     cast, sea choppy, DUMALI Pt. bearing 182° (Lighted). (Specific gravity 1195).
     Proceeded immediately on 3 main engines at 80% power (16 kts), commenced
     battery and air charge. BALTASAR ISLAND light not burning.
1937 Gave SCULPIN position, course and speed.
2028 Took other main engine off charge and put on screws at 80% power (17.5).
2210 Observed moonrise.
2245 Secured battery charge and floated battery on auxiliary engine. Decided to
     continue at high speed in order to pass S-39 area during darkness. Visibility
     as good as 15000 yards but could not see SCULPIN.

December 10, 1941
At 0122 it became apparent that SAN BERNARDINO could be cleared by daylight if ship
     made 19 knots in order to keep up with the strong ebb which began successively
     later at static positions enroute, so went to 100% power (19 kts). Visibility became
     less and weather freshened as Straits were approached. CALANTAS Rock Light
     burning. SAN BERNARDINO extinguished. Could have got along with no lights.
     (DUMALI PT, CALANTAS ROCK, SAN MIGUEL lights found lighted during night).
0454 Dived with SAN BERNARDINO bearing west 2 miles and proceeded towards operating
     area, keeping in water of depth greater than 25 fathom, still experiencing
     strong ebb. Ran sound and periscope patrol, observation for position and
     shipping every 15 minutes; heavy sea, 5 foot swells, white-caps.
1108 Sound reported that he thought he heard soundings being taken at irregular
     intervals by several vessels on starboard bow (bearing about 062°T from Lat
     13-01 Long 124-34). Nothing was in sight and no propellers could be heard.
1120 Sound reported that he believed 2 ships were talking by sound on bearing 075°T
     but that transmission was too faint and rapid for reception. Still nothing
     in sight and no propellers audible. Was unable to hear anything subsequent
     to these reports.

— page 13 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. NARRATIVE (Continued)

December 10, 1941 (Continued)
Did not attempt to further develop this scanty contact because of flood
current making into STRAITS and because I judged my mission to call for
early arrival in patrol area. My experience has been that the majority
of these types of sound contacts are false alarms. Furthermore it was
reasonable to assume that CINC would exercise air reconnaissance for
enemy submarines off STRAITS.
1136 Arrived in longitude 124°35' and set course north.
1220 No white caps disappeared, went to 120 ft. except for radio schedules.
Observed temperature gradient to be 1° per 100 ft. for upper 100 ft.
During preceding night lubricating oil coolers had shown evidence of leak-
ing (loss of oil to salt water side) on main engines 2 and 4. Disabled
these engines during dive and conducted investigation and repairs.
1734 Sunset.
1755 Surfaced in rain squall and proceeded at 80% power on No. 1 main engine
(decks awash) speed 9. Commenced battery charge on No. 3 and both auxil-
iaries. Specific gravity 1.180.
2031 Took No. 3 main engine off charge and cut it in on propulsion at 80% power,
speed 12 knots.
2230 Completed charge.
2237 Completed repairs No. 2 main engine (replaced cooler with spare) and cut it
in on propulsion at 80% power, speed 13.2.
2245 Moonrise.
2213 Received COMSUB 101359 directing SEAWOLF to shift to BABUYAN CHANNEL. On
deciphering this message blew tanks down to normal draft and at 2332 cut in
No. 1 auxiliary engine on propulsion and increased load on all engines to
80%, speed 17.

December 11, 1941
0502 Dived to 120 feet and ran at this depth except for radio skeds.
(Long swell, no white caps).
0630 Sound reported high speed screws bearing south but faint. (This ship in
15°-59' N, 121°-32' E). Came to 63 feet but could find no shipping. No
more propeller noises. Returned to 120 feet and maintained sound patrol.
(Both heads manned). Temperature gradient this locality, 0° per 100 ft.
0823 Sound reported pinging close aboard around 160° T through 50° arc. Came to
63 ft. No shipping, no propellers. (This is same operator as yesterday
morning and I'm about convinced that yesterday's alarms were the result of
men working in torpedo room and this morning's alarms the result of men
working in engine rooms and after torpedo room.)
Resumed sound patrol at 120 feet (except for radio skeds) at 1014 because of
large swells making depth control difficult and absence of white caps.
1230 Arrived Lat 16°-15'N and c/c to 317°T.
1600 Resumed periscope patrol.
1901 Surfaced and proceeded at 80% power on Nos. 1 and 2 main engines, charging on
No. 3 and both auxiliaries. Spec. grav. 1.195. Sea rough - only making
good 12 knots with all tanks blown.**2014 took No. 3 main off charge and
put on propulsion at 80% power.
2254 Secured No. 3 main engine as sea was too rough to permit the speed. Sea in-
creased in violence during night and blew down all tanks at frequent intervals,
sea condition 6, and wind from NE, force 5.

December 12, 1941
0457 Made quick dive and went to 120 ft, where stayed except for hourly observations
at 63 feet. Ship not controllable at 55 feet. (Vertical antenna depth)
Force of sea appreciable at 120 feet.
0903 Sighted land on northern LUZON bearing 292°.
1104 Changed course to 350° T and at
1211 Changed course to 335°T.

— page 14 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. NARRATIVE (Continued) December 12, 1941 (continued)

1525 Identified CAPE ENGANO Light bearing 242 distance about 11 miles and changed
    course to 270° to get in patrol area.
1636 Sound reported pinging on starboard bow. Came to 60 feet; nothing in sight.
    Returned to 120 feet, seas almost mountainous.
1650 Sound got bearing of pinging on 278° T. Changed course to 278° T.
1703 At 60 feet saw Jap DD (AMAGIRI) bearing 205°T, course 305°, range 6500.
    Resumed course 270 and went to 120 feet. Decided to penetrate channel without
    risking detection unless DD gave me highly favorable position for attack.
    Heard DD draw ahead and at
1725 observed him on bow too large and torpedo run too great for dead sure attack. Secured from battle stations and proceed-
    ed into area. This DD evidently patrolling eastward entrance. Sunset.
1838 Surfaced and commenced battery charge, spec. grav. 1.195. No. 1 main engine on
    propulsion. Very dark but heard strange noise on port bow, similar to Klaxon
    sound, sounding several blasts. Assumed to be ships maneuvering by sound.
1855 Set course 237° to head for APARRI.
1951 Sound reported pinging on port side.
2028 More pinging on port side. Prepared to attack and changed course to 107°.
2040 Resumed 237° and at
2045 Secured from Battle Stations.
2121 CAMIGUIN Island bearing 010°, 3 miles.
2150 c/c to 260°.
2340 Secured battery charge. Decided to cover western side of area and to investi-
    gate APARRI submerged on 13th.

December 13, 1941
0142 Observed moonrise and set course to head towards moon, gradually changing from
    091° to 116°.
0447 Made quick dive.
0656 Heard pinging and sighted Jap DD (MINUKAZE type) on true bearing 311°, course
    056°, range 16,000, angle on bow 60° S. Went to normal approach and endeavored
    to gain attack position (Thought it was a cruiser) but was never able to get
    range under 12,000. This DD was headed from Western entrance to BABUYAN
    Channel towards northern entrance between FUGA and CAMIGUIN.
0749 Secured from Battle Stations and resumed course for APARRI.
0835 Sighted airplane over ABULUG, course 250° T, well distant. In afternoon sighted
    seaplane over BUGUEY, flying along coast.
1648 Completed thorough investigation of APARRI, having gone into 30 fathom curve.
    Only one ship in anchorage; a small single stack freighter 4200 yards inside
    30 fathom curve (18-23.5 N, 121-37.7 E). Set course for northern entrance
    to area between CAMIGUIN and FUGA.
1818 Surfaced and proceeded on one main engine. Commenced charge.
1825 Observed lights in APARRI, apparently searchlights.
1954 Sighted 2 or 3 small flashing lights from dead ahead to one point on port bow.
    These did not appear to change bearing and in about 15 minutes were no longer
    visible.
2200 Having fixed position 7 miles abeam of CAMIGUIN changed to head for APARRI
    (having received Comsube 131128 stating that large expeditionary force was in
    SOUTH CHINA SEA). Airplane flares were observed twice during evening watch
    between ship and LUZON.
2320 Completed battery charge.

December 14, 1941
0100 Observed searchlight on at APARRI for few minutes.
0128 When 7 miles north of APARRI having observed no evidence of convoy changed to
    north in order to be able to run towards moon.
0145 Moonrise.
0200 Commenced steering for moon proceeding to position to enable me to examine PORT
    SAN VICENTE at high water slack.
0458 Made quick dive (45 sec. - Now diving boat on vacuum obtained by closing CT
    hatch before engines are stopped. This makes for a quieter dive and I believe
    it to be a safer indication of hull tightness).
0514 Heard pinging and shifted steering machinery to hand. Shut down all blowers,
    fans, air conditioning and refrigerator machinery. Temperature gradient 6°
    per 100 feet.

— page 15 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. NARRATIVE (Continued)

December 14, 1941 (continued)
0615 Short range pinging at 253°T. Commenced avoiding tactics. Pinging is 19 kcs,
  though in early stages its frequently cannot be determined.
0623 More than one ship pinging.
0628 Pinging all over starboard side of indicator.
0630 Pinging drawing across bows to NE. SEAWOLF proceeding towards 100 fathom bank.
0926 All pinging stopped, resumed course 108° for SAN VICENTE.
1237 In 18-31.3 N, 122-02.1 E changed to 121°. sea calm, weather clear - making hourly
  observations.
1334 Sighted large ship at anchor in 18-28.5 N, 122-07.3 E, bearing 110°T, distant
  5500 yards. Went to Battle Stations. Identified ship as KAMIKAWA MARU, sea-
  plane tender (on later consideration believe it may have been MANIYA MARU, fleet
  supply ship). Ship heading about 143°T in 7 to 10 fathoms of water. OOD who
  first saw ship believes he saw submarine to westward of it. During approach
  intermittent pinging ahead and on starboard side. Laid course 150° for 30
  fathom curve and to obtain better target angle (initial angle 135 S). At
1420 (time of high water slack 1433) came to 081° and at
1426-27
1429 Commenced firing bow tubes at generated range of 3800 yards, white light method.
  Set first two at 40 feet, second two at 30 feet (gyro angle was 359°). Fired
  first at stack, second at forward kingpost, third at mainmast, fourth at stack.
  Torpedoes set at high speed. Turned at full speed with left full rudder and
  went to 90 feet. Reloaded in 7 minutes (approximately). Heard no explosions,
  sound reporting pinging. (I found out later that sound had reported 2 explo-
  sions subsequent to firing but I do not remember getting the report). Set
  stern tubes for low speed and 15 feet.
1432 Steadied on 270 and ordered 63 feet.
1437-53
1459 Commenced firing stern tubes on firing bearing 178, gyro angle 177, generated
  range 4500 yards. Periscope just breaking water. Could only see top of
  stack. At some time subsequent to firing engine room personnel stated they
  heard four muffled explosions. Pinging to starboard.
1450 Decided to run out of area to northward for night and changed to 323°.
1453 Ship pinging on our first depth charge on starboard quarter, well, distant.
  Went to Depth Charge quarters, full speed 200 feet. Shifted all machinery to
  hand and stopped everything which could be stopped.
1500 Ship making depth charge attack at 100° T. 5 or 6 charges were dropped at
  irregular intervals. Never heard propellers. Charges were light or were far
  off and were to starboard.
1515 Secured from Depth Charge Attack. Went to 120 feet.
1724 Went to periscope depth and at
1822 Surfaced in black darkness and proceeded to leave CAMIGUIN to starboard.
  Gravity 1.180.
2025 Sighted 3 aircraft flares on port beam (between ship and APARRI).
2030 With PORT SAN PIO QUINTO abeam to starboard 5 miles changed to north and spent
  night running around in BABUYAN group so as to steer for moon after moonrise.
2242-
2311 Heard pinging on various bearings and all around the dial.
2230 Secured charge.

December 15, 1941
0239 Moonrise. Steered for moon.
0453 Made quick dive (46 sec.)
0805 Completed examination from seaward of PORT SAN PIO QUINTO.
0926 Commenced west-east patrol of northern approach (route from TAKAO to APARRI).
  Surface of water choppy - maintaining periscope patrol (observations at intervals
  of 15 minutes).
1053 Sound reported high noise level to eastward. Nothing in sight.
1813 Surfaced and commenced charge. Set course to examine northern approaches during
  night.
2308 Secured battery charge.
1629 Heard sound gear working, nothing in sight.

— page 16 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. NARRATIVE (Continued)

December 16, 1941
Examining BABUYAN Island area northwest of CAMIGUIN Island and heading for
diving point which would enable submerged examination of CAMIGUIN to CAPE
ENGANO.
0459 Dived to 120 feet.
0554 Commenced periscope patrol but had to abandon on account of extremely bad
weather, visibility 300 yards, raining, heavy seas. Ran at 120 feet with
hourly periscope observation. Visibility remained poor all day. Noted
temperature gradients to be erratic.
1803 Pinging to northwest.
1809 Surfaced in black darkness and commenced charge. Laid course to examine northern
and western approaches and to arrive off APARRI by daylight.
1957 More pinging to NW. Sighted steady white light on CAMIGUIN Island (or in line
with that island). This is first light to be observed on CAMIGUIN. JAPS have
evidently taken this island. I have decided to give this area a little wider
berth at night hereafter.
2215 Completed battery charge. Kept auxiliaries on permission to make battery water.

December 17, 1941
0210 Battery water tanks filled. Secured auxiliaries.
0507 Submerged off APARRI bearing 159° distant 13 miles and set course 135° to
examine harbor.
0800 Heard sound gear to starboard. Nothing in sight, visibility 1000 yards, seas
heavy, depth control difficult at 63 feet.
0820 Changed course to head for eastern approaches. Raining, overcast, visibility
1000 yards. Kept patrol at 120 feet except for hourly observations/to investi-
gate pinging which was heard several times during day. Unable to fix position
by landmarks.
1801 Surfaced and laid course for northern approaches. Finally had to use fathometer
to establish position (not established until 2317) having experienced bad set
to north and west. Heard pinging intermittently during evening watch and
maneuvered to avoid.
2225 Completed charge.

December 18, 1941
Patrolling approach TARAC-APARRI, weather gradually clearing. No moon.
0501 Dived 4 miles SW of FUGA and commenced periscope patrol.
0546 High noise level to northward. No ship in sight.
0601 Heard screws to northeast. No ship in sight. Sound faded out at 0638.
Numerous sound contacts during day but no ships could be found in periscope.
Visibility excellent.
1816 Surfaced and set course for BABUYAN Island in order to (1) Investigate place
to burn carbon out of engine mufflers in order to reduce sparking and (2)
Investigate place to strike down torpedoes from deck tubes.
2155 Completed charge.

December 19, 1941
0515 Dived after burning carbon out of main engine evaporators (One hour each at
100% power). Set course to examine APARRI, allowing for strong westerly
set. Experienced fresh water pockets several times during day.
1105 Sighted 5 large planes over APARRI (believed to be JAP flying boats).
1120 Observed one (or 5 similar) planes between ship and BUGUEY. At 7 miles could
see no shipping in APARRI.
1827 Surfaced and commenced east-west patrol of area.
1839 Observed lights in APARRI (Thought to be landing field searchlights). During
day and night made several sound contacts but could find no shipping.
2220 Completed charge.

December 20, 1941
0502 Dived and laid course for PORT SAN VICENTE.
0518 Propellers heard to SW.
0530 Sound gear working to E.
1023 Sound gear bearing 200°. No ship in sight. Sea flat calm, long swell. Kept
patrol at 120 feet except for investigating sound contacts and hourly observa-
tions.

— page 17 —
CONFIDENTIAL
A. NARRATIVE (Continued)
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

December 20, 1941 (continued)
1108 More pinging to West.
1237 Completed examination PORT SAN VICENTE at 5 miles. No shipping visible.
    Laid course to northwest.
1819 Surfaced and ran towards moon (247° T.)
1915 Moon disappeared. Changed to northward and increased speed in order to lie to
    in lee of BABUYAN Island for striking torpedoes below from deck tubes.

December 21, 1941
0004 Stopped and secured engines, lying to on battery on 100 fathom curve SW of
    center of BABUYAN.
0330 Completed striking 2 torpedoes below and shifting boat (if boat had not been
    aboard we would have had them all below during this time).
0400 En route diving area and
0505 Dived in northern approaches. Examined PORT SAN PIO QUINTO from 7 miles. No
    shipping. Excellent visibility - white caps. Maintained 63 foot patrol.
1823 Surfaced and laid course to return to BABUYAN (An unusual plan for this work
    because of additional distance from APARRI and comparative lack of communica-
    tions between this island and the others. There are no good landings, very
    few dwellings and an excellent lee free of navigational dangers).
2300 Secured engines and commenced striking torpedoes below.

December 22, 1941
0004 Completed striking torpedoes below and headed for northern approaches.
0517 Dived with PAMOCAN Island E 4 miles.
    Commenced patrolling central channel in examination of northern and western
    approaches.
1148 Sighted airplane in direction of APARRI.
1816 Surfaced and began east-west patrol away from and toward moon.
2135 Completed charge.
2147 Moonset.
2200 (about) Received COMSUBSAF 221055 shifting area to westward and laid course
    accordingly.

December 23, 1941
0213 Sighted green flare of short duration to northeastward.
0458 Submerged with C. BOJEADOR bearing 183° 17 miles.
0555 High noise level and sound gear to northwest. Nothing visible.
0638 Propellers and pinging to southeast. Nothing visible. Sea rough; maintained
    periscope depth.
1807 Surfaced northwest of C. BOJEADOR and ran back and forth in direction of moon.
2022 White flare on starboard bow.
2014 On receipt of COMSUBSAF 231022 prescribing movement to southward increased
    speed to 17 knots and set course to conform to routing.
2140 Completed charge.
2210 Moonset.

December 24, 1941
0133 Filled battery water tanks and cut out and secured auxiliary engine on propul-
    sion.
0522 Dived.
0535 Heard faint pinging to eastward in PORPOISE area. Patrolling at 120 feet with
    observations every hour - sea calm and clear, unlimited visibility.
1833 Surfaced.
2200 Completed charge.
2332 After moonset blew main ballast and increased speed to 14 knots.

December 25, 1941
0512 During morning watch heard pinging and high noise levels to southeast. Nothing
    visible. Sea ruffled. Maintaining periscope patrol.

— page 18 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. NARRATIVE (Continued)

December 25, 1941 (continued)
0850 Pinging (more than 1 ship) to NE. Nothing in sight.
1140 Sea calm. Went to 120 feet except for hourly investigations.
1524 Heard 6 pings at 7-minute intervals to S. Sea choppy, resumed periscope
     patrol.
1622 Sighted heavy smoke over MARIVELES.
1909 Surfaced and commenced charge. Too bright for surface operation.
1927 Submerged.
2011 Pinging to S.
2018 More than one ship pinging.
2021 Pinging all round dial, very close.
2023 Screws bearing 235 T. Nothing in sight - visibility 7 miles. Commenced
     evasion tactics.
2132 No more evidence of sound search. Resumed periscope patrol and watch on
     vertical antenna.
2342 Sighted FORTUNE bearing 143° T.

December 26, 1941
0014 Surfaced and acknowledged for COMSUBSAF Serial No. 6 giving directions for
     entrance and gave information on supersonic contact.
0430 Entered mine field and
0512 Anchored off MARIVELES as directed.

— page 19 —
DECLASSIFIED
                                                                U.S.S. SEAWOLF

B. WEATHER

December 8, 1941

        Calm, clear, intermittent overcast conditions. Typical northeast monsoon
        weather.

December 9, 1941

        Same as above; a few small rain squalls.

December 10, 1941

        Typical northeast monsoon weather for locality; seas heavy, wind force 4 after
        passing through STRAITS. Whitecaps disappeared during forenoon watch, long swell
        from NE persisted. Rain squalls in afternoon and evening clouds 2 to 10.

December 11, 1941

        Typical northeast monsoon weather for locality; long swells from NE, increasingly
        rough and overcast towards end of day.

December 12, 1941

        Wind NE, force 4, overcast and cloudy, clouds 8 to 9, seas 6 to 2.

December 13, 1941

        Winds NE force 3 to ENE force 4, clouds 4 to 10, sea 4 to 2.

December 14, 1941

        Winds NE to E, 4 to 2. Clouds 3 to 7. Sea 2 (Very flat in PORT SAN VICENTE).

December 15, 1941

        Winds NE, force 3. Clouds 3 to 10, seas 2 to 4. Much rain. Low visibility.

December 16, 1941

        Winds NE, force 3. Clouds 10, sea 5 to 2. Rains. Low visibility.

December 17, 1941

        Winds NE, force 3-4, overcast. Clouds 10 to 9, sea 2 to 5 to 4. Intermittent
        rains, clearing towards midnight.

December 18, 1941

        Clearing, commencing with with wind NE, force 3; clouds 6 to 8, sea 4. Ended
        with wind E, force 4; clouds 3, sea 4. Visibility excellent. During period
        between low and high water accurately estimated set and drift 2.5 miles south
        of center of area to be 278° 2.4 knots.

December 19, 1941

        Winds NE 3 to ENE 1, sea choppy, clear clouds 3 to 2. Swells from NE, sea
        condition 4 to 2.

December 20, 1941

        Winds NE 3 to E 2; clouds 0 to 10; visibility 30 to 10, sea NE 2, choppy.

December 21, 1941

        Winds NE 2 to S 1; clouds 7 to 3 to 10; visibility 15 to 20 to 15; sea NE 2/SW 5
        NE to 2 S. clear to overcast.

— page 20 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
B. WEATHER (Continued)

December 22, 1941
Winds NE to W to NE, 3 to 2; cloudy; clouds 2 to 9; sea 2 to 4 to 2, NE to W
to NE.

December 23, 1941
Winds NE, 3 to 4; cloudy, occasional rain, sea NE 4.

December 24, 1941
Wind NE 3 to calm; clear flat sea; ended with wind E, force 1. Clear to cloudy;
clouds 1 to 7. Sea 4 to 2, NE to ENE.

December 25, 1941
!
Wind E 1, clouds 5 to 3. Visibility excellent. Sea 2 NE.

— page 21 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

C. TIDAL INFORMATION

December 8, 1941
No remarks.

December 9-10, 1941
By use of high speed was enabled to stay with ebb from
BALTASAR through SAN BERNARDINO where ebb was running maximum strength.

December 11, 1941
No remarks.

December 12, 1941
During period between low and high water accurately esti-
mated set and drift 2.5 miles south of center of FUGA to be 278° 2.4 knots.

December 12-22, 1941
The currents in BABUYAN Channel were observed to be strong
(and erratic with respect to tides) in mid-channel. Lee of CAPE ENGANO currents
are weak during NE monsoon. Off APARRI, strong and erratic. South of FUGA strong
and almost always westerly. In general, during NE monsoon it will be best to plan
dives so as to make submerged examination on westerly courses in order to cover
maximum area (This does not apply to PORT SAN VICENTE; although it is believed that
inside 30-fathom curve currents are likely to be strong here).

[HANDWRITTEN: 66]

— page 22 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

D. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

December 8-10, 1941
Noted all were burning from LA MONJA to MALABRIGO.

December 9-10, 1941
Noted all were extinguished from BALTASAR to SAN BERNARDINO except DUMALI, SAN
MIGUEL, and CALANTAN ROCK. Visibility was such that none were necessary on
either night, except latter was quite a help. This enabled vessel to navigate
through STRAITS at full speed.

December 12, 1941
No aids lighted in Northern LUZON (APARRI area).

December 25, 1941
CAPONES ISLAND Light not burning. FORTUNE burning. SUESTE PT. not burning.

[HANDWRITTEN: H-67]

— page 23 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

E. DESCRIPTION OF SHIPS SIGHTED

December 9, 1941.
1031 One small interisland steamer. Lat 13°-26' N. Long. 121°-15' E; course 300°,
speed 8.

December 10-11, 1941. - None.

December 12, 1941
1 JAP DD (AMAGIRI type); 18-45 N, 122-15 E; courses various; speed 10 knots,
patrolling NE approach to APARRI and using sound gear. 1703 LCT.

December 13, 1941
1 JAP DD (MINUKAZE type); 18-45 N, 121-20 E; course 060; speed 14, evidently
patrolling western and northern approaches. Attempted approach but could not
close range to less than 12,000 yards. 0656 LCT.
1 small freighter or large tug in APARRI harbor at anchor. 1625 LCT.

December 14, 1941
KAMIKAWA MARU (AV) or MAMIYA (AK) in 18-28.5 N, 122-07.5 E (PORT SAN VICENTE)
heading 143° T, at anchor. 1334 LCT.

December 15, 1941 to end of patrol None.

— page 24 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

F. AIRCRAFT SIGHTED

December 8, 1941
No aircraft sighted after clearing bay.

December 9-10, 1941
None.

December 11-12, 1941
None.

December 13, 1941
2 sea planes - believed to be 2-motor flying boats.

December 19, 1941
5 flying boats over APARRI.

December 22, 1941
1 airplane over APARRI.

— page 25 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

G. ATTACKS

December 14, 1941
Attacked KAMIKAWA MARU (or similar ship) at anchor in PORT SAN VICENTE; two attacks,
4 torpedoes each.
First attack - Used white light with periscope, point of aim: No. 1 - Stack.
                                                              No. 2 - Forward king post.
Track angle 120°                                              No. 3 - [UNCLEAR: Amidships]
Speed 0                                                       No. 4 - Stack.
Spread lateral
Hits (?)
Results unknown. Estimated range 3800
Heard no explosions. Sound reported two muffled explosions about
3 minutes after firing but CO did not get this report. Nos. 1 and 2 were set at 30
feet, Nos. 3 and 4 at 40 feet. Ship was anchored in 7-10 fathoms. Gyro angle 359.
Second attack - Used white light with periscope, generated range 4500; point of aim -
stack. Track angle 120°; speed 0; no spread; depth setting 15 ft; low speed. Gyro
angle 177°. Hits (?). Results unknown. Engine room personnel claim to have heard
4 muffled explosions.

[HANDWRITTEN: 70]

— page 26 —
DECLASSIFIED
H. ENEMY A/S MEASURES

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

December 12, 1941
1703 JAP DD at low speed, intermittent pinging and listening. At first could not
     distinguish frequency. Later determined to be 19 Kcs. Presented DD with
     small target angle and ran as silently as possible. Water rough, escaped
     detection.

December 13, 1941
0656 Same as above. Took no measures to avoid but endeavored to make approach.
     Could not get in.

December 14, 1941
0615 Unknown number of vessels pinging intermittently. (Believed to be 3 DD)
     Remained at 120 feet. Ran silent toward right hand ship and 100 fathom curve.
     Not detected.
1437 Pinging to starboard. Held course and went to high speed to get to deep water.
     Went to 200 feet and ran alternately slow and fast. DD remained abaft star-
     board beam. Dropped 5 to 6 depth charges well distant. Not detected.
     (This was just subsequent to attack on KAMIKAWA MARU).

71

— page 27 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

I. MAJOR DEFECTS AND CASUALTIES

(1) No. 2 main engine out of commission from 0454 December 10 to 2237 December
10 and No. 4 main engine from 0454 December 10 to 2400 December 11 due to leaky
lubricating oil coolers (Harrison Radiator Co. These have been the cause of
numerous letters since the construction of the ship).

(2) From very first (TABLAS STRAIT) submerged reception on loop was not possible.

(3) Need for vapor still is keenly felt as weather is often poor for making water
and in patrol area it would be far better to lie in lee of island than run just to
make water. With decks awash (as this ship usually ran with MBTs completely
filled) water making is more difficult. Phosphorescence of water made running at
all extremely dangerous in patrol area (vide Airplane Flares).

(4) To make water it is necessary to run at load at which sparking occasionally
takes place, sparks coming out when muffler tail pipe rolls out of water. Wet
mufflers urgently required for high engine loadings.

(5) Need for relocation of pitometer log keenly felt during night navigation with
one or two sound heads down. During this condition pit log registers a speed about
10% to 33% in error, with corresponding errors introduced into position indicator
and data computer.

(6) We experienced considerable trouble with air leaks outboard from (a) impulse
piping (b) sea chest blows (c) main ballast, safety and bow buoyancy tank blows.
Made observations every 15 minutes with submerged periscope to detect same and
have had to make this a standard practice.

(7) Leak in trim line in after torpedo room appeared early in patrol. Ship's force
effected temporary repairs. Hole is 1/4" and should be repaired properly at first
opportunity.

(8) Fore and aft studs on which brake disks ride (BOW PLANE MOTOR) are bent;
making for noisy brake operation, and eventual failure. Should be replaced at
first opportunity.

— page 28 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

J. GENERAL REMARKS

1. Practice of Army illuminating mine-field with searchlights during passage of
   ships distressing from my point of view. If ship is in doubt about location
   of buoy it can use own searchlight or ask for illumination.

2. Navigational lights could well be dispensed with during moonlight.

3. A 3-section watch was maintained most satisfactorily. Health and spirits remained
   good. On Christmas eve crew built a miniature Christmas tree of a sawed-off
   broom handle, medical applicators, medical cotton, green and pink file paper,
   sugar candy, flashlight bulbs, pasteboard, cigarette wrapper tinfoil, etc.
   Spirits are much better than they were one year ago. I believe the general health
   to be as good if not better.

4. This ship has successfully used Nos. 2 and 3 auxiliary tanks for wash water
   stowage since May, 1941. After 17 days at sea there was still sufficient fresh
   water on board for 48 days at current rate of expenditure and distillation and
   sufficient fuel for 24 days in area with a subsequent 10-day trip to a port
   of refuge and a 10,000 gallon safety margin.

5. SEAWOLF purchased a washing machine a few months ago and this war patrol has been
   the first opportunity to use it. The machine is the standard home size and takes
   up more room in the washroom than is desirable but this is more than overcome by
   the use made of the machine after a week or so at sea. Relocation of the wash-
   basins in the washroom (to the forward bulkhead instead of in the center of the
   washroom as at present) would eliminate this one objection. This has been requested
   for pending overhaul but forwarding authorities disapproved request. It is
   believed that an actual saving of water results from use of the machine.

— page 29 —
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING.
N. ENG. 21.

DR. NO.
4-6717

[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']

[HANDWRITTEN: 10']

[HANDWRITTEN: FUGA I]

[HANDWRITTEN: 20']

[HANDWRITTEN: 0600 (074)]

[HANDWRITTEN: 30']

[HANDWRITTEN: CAGAYAN RIVER]

[HANDWRITTEN: APARRI]

[HANDWRITTEN: TRACK Chart 12 Dec. 1941]

[HANDWRITTEN: 40']

[HANDWRITTEN: CAMIGUIN I]

[HANDWRITTEN: 50']

[HANDWRITTEN: 0951 HEARD Sound Ranging]

[HANDWRITTEN: 122°]
[HANDWRITTEN: Port San Vicente]
[HANDWRITTEN: PALAUIG]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0930]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1938]
[HANDWRITTEN: ESCARPADA PT.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 122°10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 10 TRACK]
[HANDWRITTEN: P]
[HANDWRITTEN: 20]
[HANDWRITTEN: 01700 SIGHTED Jap DD (AMAGARI CLASS)]

[HANDWRITTEN: 74p]

— page 30 —
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING.
N. ENG. 2.

[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']

DR. No.
[HANDWRITTEN: 4-877]

[HANDWRITTEN: 122°]
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']

[HANDWRITTEN: PT. 0300]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0300]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0447]
[HANDWRITTEN: DIVED]
[HANDWRITTEN: SUBMERGED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0500]

[HANDWRITTEN: LOST BY TRACK]

[HANDWRITTEN: 2000]
[HANDWRITTEN: POSN. OF DD AND SEAWOLF]
[HANDWRITTEN: ATTACK WAS ABANDONED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0000 (13th)]

[HANDWRITTEN: CAGAYAN I.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0650]
[HANDWRITTEN: 2 PLANES]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1700]
[HANDWRITTEN: SIGHTED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 2 SMALL]
[HANDWRITTEN: VESSELS IN APARRI]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0712]
[HANDWRITTEN: SURFACED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0827]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0900 (14)]

[HANDWRITTEN: Track Chart]
[HANDWRITTEN: 13 Dec. 1941]

[HANDWRITTEN: ON CAGAYAN RIVER]
[HANDWRITTEN: APARRI]

[HANDWRITTEN: PORT SAN VICENTE]
[HANDWRITTEN: PALAU]

[HANDWRITTEN: ESCARPADA PT.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']
[HANDWRITTEN: 122°]
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']

[HANDWRITTEN: 21]
[HANDWRITTEN: P]

[HANDWRITTEN: 75P]

— page 32 —
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING.
N. ENG. 221.
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']

DR. No.
[HANDWRITTEN: 8]
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING.
N. ENG. 221.
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']

[HANDWRITTEN: PATA PT.]

[HANDWRITTEN: SURFACED
1713]

[HANDWRITTEN: DALUPIRI IS]

[HANDWRITTEN: FUGA IS]

[HANDWRITTEN: CALAYAN IS]

[HANDWRITTEN: 1615]

[HANDWRITTEN: 1713]

[HANDWRITTEN: 1815]

[HANDWRITTEN: 1915]

[HANDWRITTEN: 2230]

[HANDWRITTEN: 2120]

[HANDWRITTEN: TRACK CHART]
[HANDWRITTEN: 15 DEC 1941]

[HANDWRITTEN: 122°]

[HANDWRITTEN: 121°]

[HANDWRITTEN: APARRI]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0000 (15)]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0553
DIVED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0726]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0823]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0900]

[HANDWRITTEN: 1000]

[HANDWRITTEN: CAMIGUIN IS.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 120°]

[HANDWRITTEN: 119°]

[HANDWRITTEN: PORT SAN VICENTE]

[HANDWRITTEN: PALAUIS]

[HANDWRITTEN: 118°]

[HANDWRITTEN: 117°]

[HANDWRITTEN: 10']

[HANDWRITTEN: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE]

[HANDWRITTEN: 23]
[HANDWRITTEN: P]

— page 34 —
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING
M. ENG. 726.

DR. NO.
[HANDWRITTEN: 4-1017]

[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: TRACK CHART]
[HANDWRITTEN: 17 DEC. 1941]
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']
[HANDWRITTEN: 122°]
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']

[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']
[HANDWRITTEN: 121°]

[HANDWRITTEN: PINA PT.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0800]
[HANDWRITTEN: LUZON IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0807 SUBMERGED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1000 SUBMERGED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0800]
[HANDWRITTEN: CAMARINES]
[HANDWRITTEN: CAMIGUIN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: PALAU IS.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']
[HANDWRITTEN: 122°]
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 23°]

[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']
[HANDWRITTEN: 121°]

[HANDWRITTEN: 193]
[TYPED: NAVY DEPARTMENT, PRINTING OFFICE]
[HANDWRITTEN: 25']

— page 35 —
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING,
ENG. 200
DR. NO.
[HANDWRITTEN: BABUYAN IS.]
50
[HANDWRITTEN: OKAYAN IS.]
40
[HANDWRITTEN: 2400]
30
20
[HANDWRITTEN: DALUPIRI IS.]
10
[HANDWRITTEN: FUGA IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: CAMIGUIN IS.]
50
[HANDWRITTEN: SUBMERGED]
[HANDWRITTEN: REVERSED COURSE]
[HANDWRITTEN: SURFACED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0000]
40
[HANDWRITTEN: PATA PT.]
30
[HANDWRITTEN: ABARRI]
20
[UNCLEAR: PALAUAN]
10'
10'
20'
30'
40'
50'
122°
10'
[HANDWRITTEN: TRACK CHART 18 DEC 1941]
[HANDWRITTEN: 80P]

— page 36 —
[TYPED: DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,]
[TYPED: BUREAU OF ENGINEERING,]
[TYPED: N. ENG. 2A]
[TYPED: NEW EDITION OF FEBRUARY,]
[TYPED: 1941. U.S. NAVY HYDROGRAPHIC]
[TYPED: OFFICE. WASHINGTON, D. C.]
[HANDWRITTEN: DR. NO.]
[TYPED: 10']
[TYPED: 50']
[TYPED: 40']
[TYPED: 30']
[TYPED: 20']
[TYPED: 10']
[TYPED: 50']
[TYPED: 40']
[TYPED: 30']
[TYPED: 20']
[TYPED: 10']

[HANDWRITTEN: BAGUYAN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: CALAYAN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0032]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0000]
[HANDWRITTEN: DALUPIRI]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0220]
[HANDWRITTEN: FUGA]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0531]
[HANDWRITTEN: SUBMERGED]
[HANDWRITTEN: CAMIGUIN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0700]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1250]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1330]
[HANDWRITTEN: SURFACED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1105]
[HANDWRITTEN: SIGHTED S BOW]
[HANDWRITTEN: OVER APARRI]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1443]
[HANDWRITTEN: LAVA PT.]
[HANDWRITTEN: NO SHIPPING VISIBLE]
[HANDWRITTEN: IN APARRI]
[HANDWRITTEN: APARRI]
[HANDWRITTEN: PALAUIG IS.]

[TYPED: DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,]
[TYPED: BUREAU OF ENGINEERING,]
[TYPED: N. ENG. 2A]
[TYPED: NEW EDITION OF FEBRUARY,]
[TYPED: 1941. U.S. NAVY HYDROGRAPHIC]
[TYPED: OFFICE. WASHINGTON, D. C.]
[TYPED: 30']
[TYPED: 20']
[TYPED: 10']
[TYPED: 50']
[TYPED: 40']
[TYPED: 30']
[TYPED: 20']
[TYPED: 10']

[HANDWRITTEN: TRACK CHART 19 DEC.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 8/P]

— page 37 —
[HANDWRITTEN: TRANSFERRED REMAINING TWO TORPEDOES
From Deck tubes to F.T.R. HERE]

[HANDWRITTEN: BABUYAN IS.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 2325]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0044 TO 0400 SHIFTED TWO
TORPS FROM DECK TUBES TO F.T.R.
HERE]

[HANDWRITTEN: CAMIGUIN IS.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 0500 SUBMERGED]

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING.
[HANDWRITTEN: DR. N. ENG. 121.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 20°]
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']

[HANDWRITTEN: 0945]

[HANDWRITTEN: FUGA IS.]

[HANDWRITTEN: DALUPIRI IS.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 40']

[HANDWRITTEN: 1248]

[HANDWRITTEN: 30']

[HANDWRITTEN: 1545]

[HANDWRITTEN: 20']

[HANDWRITTEN: PAMPANGA]

[HANDWRITTEN: 1823
SURFACED 1756]

[HANDWRITTEN: 10']

[HANDWRITTEN: APARRI]

[HANDWRITTEN: 19°]

[HANDWRITTEN: 121°] [HANDWRITTEN: 10'] [HANDWRITTEN: 20'] [HANDWRITTEN: 30'] [HANDWRITTEN: 40'] [HANDWRITTEN: 50'] [HANDWRITTEN: 122°] [HANDWRITTEN: 10']

[HANDWRITTEN: TRACK CHART 21 DEC 1941]

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING.
HYDROGRAPHIC OFFICE.
4-2-17

[HANDWRITTEN: 839]

— page 38 —
D
[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 19°]
DR. No.
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 18°]
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING,
BUREAU OF SHIPS,
NAVSHIPS 200

[HANDWRITTEN: DALUPIRI IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: CALAYAN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: BABUYAN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 2227]
[HANDWRITTEN: BALINTANG]
[HANDWRITTEN: 2110]
[HANDWRITTEN: FUGA IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 2019]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0000]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0047]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0000]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1933]
[HANDWRITTEN: CAMIGUIN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: SURFACE]
[HANDWRITTEN: SUBMERGED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1753]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1632]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1530]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1434]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1256]
[HANDWRITTEN: Nothing at Port San Vicente]
[HANDWRITTEN: APARRI]
[HANDWRITTEN: PALAUI]

[HANDWRITTEN: 20'] [HANDWRITTEN: 30'] [HANDWRITTEN: 40'] [HANDWRITTEN: 50'] [HANDWRITTEN: 122] [HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: TRACK CHART 20 DEC.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 82P]
NAVSHIPS PRINTING OFFICE

— page 39 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: BABUYAN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 30]
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: CALAYAN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1024Z]
[TYPED: DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,]
[TYPED: BUREAU OF ENGINEERING,]
[TYPED: N. ENG. 20.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 19°]
[HANDWRITTEN: DALUPIRI IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 0517 DIVED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 19°]
[HANDWRITTEN: DR. NO.]
[HANDWRITTEN: FUGA IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: CAMIGUIN IS.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']
[HANDWRITTEN: 02400]
[HANDWRITTEN: 01216 SURFACED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[UNCLEAR: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE]
[HANDWRITTEN: OPAYA PT.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: APARRI]
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: 20']
[HANDWRITTEN: 30']
[HANDWRITTEN: 40']
[HANDWRITTEN: 50']
[HANDWRITTEN: 122°]
[HANDWRITTEN: 10']
[HANDWRITTEN: TRACK CHART 22 DEC,]
[HANDWRITTEN: 948]

— page 40 —
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY,
BUREAU OF ENGINEERING.
N. ENG. 2M.

DR. No.

[HANDWRITTEN, rotated 90 degrees clockwise]: 1200
[HANDWRITTEN, rotated 90 degrees clockwise]: Dotted line probable track due to current
[HANDWRITTEN, rotated 90 degrees clockwise]: 1210

[HANDWRITTEN]: SURFACED
[HANDWRITTEN]: SUBMERGED

[HANDWRITTEN]: CAPE Bojador

[HANDWRITTEN]: PACHIRI
[HANDWRITTEN]: 00
[HANDWRITTEN]: FUERTE
[HANDWRITTEN]: ISLAND

[HANDWRITTEN, rotated 90 degrees counter-clockwise]: Track Chart
[HANDWRITTEN, rotated 90 degrees counter-clockwise]: 23 Dec.

[HANDWRITTEN, rotated 90 degrees clockwise]: 19°N

[HANDWRITTEN, rotated 90 degrees counter-clockwise]: 85
[HANDWRITTEN, rotated 90 degrees counter-clockwise]: 18/06/19

[HANDWRITTEN]: 31

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE

— page 41 —
SS197/A16-3
Serial S-01
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
S-E-C-R-E-T

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 202

U. S. S. SEAWOLF (SS197)

January 10, 1942.

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander Submarines, U. S. Asiatic Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Second War Patrol,
forwarding of.

Enclosure: (A) Report of Second War Patrol.
(B) Radio Log. - [HANDWRITTEN: Missing]

1. The enclosures are forwarded herewith.

2. This letter and the enclosures thereto are classified
as "SECRET" in accordance with instruction from Commander Submarines,
U.S. Asiatic Fleet.

[SIGNATURE: F. B. Warder]
F. B. WARDER

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED ACT D445 OPNAMINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: GIC] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 8-24-66]

[HANDWRITTEN: (P)]

— page 42 —
[Punch hole]                               U.S.S. SEAWOLF                               [Punch hole]

S-E-C-R-E-T
SECRET

REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

Period from December 31, 1941 to January 9, 1942.

Zone times kept: -8, -9, -10-1/2

Area: Enroute Manila Bay, P. I. to Port Darwin, Australia.

Report follows: (attached)

A. - Narrative.

B. - Weather.

C. - Tidal Information.

D. - Navigational Aids.

E. - Description of Ships Sighted.

F. - Description of Aircraft Sighted.

G. - Attacks. (None made; no sheet for "G" included in report)

H. - Enemy A/S Measures. do

I. - Major Defects & Casualties do

J. - General Remarks.

[HANDWRITTEN: ENC 1^o 2]
[HANDWRITTEN: 202]

— page 43 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative
December 31, 1941
0244 Cleared minefield and laid course for 100 fathom curve in accordance with
     instructions from Comsubsaf; having received on board certain officer and
     enlisted passengers.
0307 Commenced zig-zag.
0408 Moonset.
0519 Dived on course 256°, 16 miles, bearing 325° from CABRA.
0625 Commenced periscope patrol.
0635 Changed course to south.
1840 Surfaced and proceeded by various courses to conform to routing.
2208 Commenced investigation PALAUAN BAY at full speed on 4 main engines.
2237 Completed investigation - no ships at anchor in PALAUAN. Remained well inshore
     for remainder of night.
2300 Completed charge. Pit log mileage for day 163.4

January 1, 1942
     Proceeding at such speeds as to make good 13 knots along route.
0450 Moonset.
0532 Dived with AMBULONG ISLAND bearing 341°, distant 24 miles; no temperature
     gradient; sea rough; visibility good.
0630 Commenced periscope patrol.
1831 Surfaced and went ahead at 80% power on three main engines, course 110° in
     order to run towards moon and get in shadow of PANAY.
1900 MANAGUIN ISLAND abeam to port 5 miles.
2001 Changed to 185° and cut in fourth engine on propulsion, having decided to
     make best speed in order transit BASILAN STRAIT on ebb during night of 2-3
     January.
2208 Completed charge.
2337 c/c to 180°.5 Pit log mileage for day 204.4

January 2, 1942
0520 Dived to 110 feet.
0552 Commenced patrol at 63 feet.
1835 Surfaced and proceeded at 16.5 knots.
1950 C/c to 168°
2035 Increased speed to 17.5 knots.
2148 Completed battery charge.
2354 Commenced steering various courses to transit BASILAN STRAIT. Mileage for
     day 224.8

January 3, 1942
     ZAMBOANGA blacked out.
0202 Cleared STRAIT and set course for MOLUKKA PASSAGE 149°
0525 Dived to 110 feet.
0632 Commenced periscope patrol.
1521 Sea becoming calm went to 120 feet.
1700 Resumed periscope patrol.
1829 Surfaced and proceeded at 16.5 knots.
2049 Increased speed to 17.5 knots.
2356 C/c to 061° in order to examine southwesterly exists from DAVAO GULF. Pit
     log mileage 226.8

[HANDWRITTEN: ENC "A"]
[HANDWRITTEN: 203]

— page 44 —
SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T
                                                                U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
January 4, 1942
0438 C/c to 109° T.
0501 Dived 23 miles SW of BALUT IS.
0556 C/c to 090° and made observation at 63 feet. Sea smooth, resumed deep patrol
     (120 feet) except for hourly observations.
1317 Sea becoming rougher, resumed periscope patrol.
1823 Surfaced with BALUD ISLAND (SARANGANI group) bearing 015°, 35 miles; ship
     having experienced a set of 244° and drift of 4 knots during afternoon.
     Steered to round KAWIO ISLAND and to reconnoitre TALAUD ISLAND during night,
     making 17 knots.
2145 Completed charge. Pit log mileage 220.9

January 5, 1942
0240 Completed examination of BEO BAY, KARAKELONG and set course 183° for MAJOE IS.
0458 Dived and commenced 120 feet patrol, except for hourly observations. No
     temperature gradient; sea temperature 84° F.
1817 Surfaced and proceed at 16 knots.
1950 Moonrise.
2145 Completed charge. Pit log mileage for day 225.4

January 6, 1942
0443 Submerged 43 miles west of KASIRUTA ISLAND.
0538 C/c to 162° T. Running deep patrol except for hourly observations. Sea
     smooth. Zero temperature gradient, temperature 84° F.
1826 Surfaced and proceeded at 16 knots.
2037 Increased speed to 17 knots.
2045 Moonrise.
2330 Set clocks ahead to zone 9. Pit log mileage for day 221.9

January 7, 1942
0205 C/c to 172° T.
0535 Dived 25 miles SW of AMBON ISLAND and commenced 120 feet patrol with hourly
     observations. Temperature gradient 2° per 100 feet. Temperature 86° F. at
     63 feet.
1630 Surfaced and proceeded at 18.5 knots, numerous small rain squalls.
1944 Commenced battery charge and slowed to 17 knots.
2250 Completed battery charge.
2315 Moonrise. Pit log mileage for day 248.1

January 8, 1942
0243 C/c to 134°, DAMAR ISLAND abeam to port 23 miles.
0528 Commenced zig-zag.
0750 Dived 4 miles E of SERMATA ISLAND and set course 159° T, patrolling at 120
     feet, except for hourly observations.
1122 Changed course to 180° to correct for set and drift to eastward.
1153 Sighted mast bearing 182°.
1215 Identified ship as WM B PRESTON or CHILDS, course 010°, speed 12. Ship passed
     2500 yards to eastward; flying colors; sound gear not in use; guns trained
     fore and aft.
                                                                        [HANDWRITTEN: 4]
                                                                        [HANDWRITTEN: ENC "A"]
                                                                        [HANDWRITTEN: 204]

— page 45 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
SECRET
A. Narrative (Continued)
January 8, 1942 (Continued)
1353 C/c to 160° and surfaced; proceeded at 18 knots, zig-zagging.
1900 Stopped zig-zag.
1940 Commenced charge. Slowed to 16 knots.
2000 Crossed 100 fathom curve.
2034 Increased to 18 knots.
2039 C/c to 180°
2145 Completed charge.
2214 C/c to 172°
2306 Observed moonrise. Pitometer log mileage for day 332.7

January 9, 1942
0047 Went to Battle Stations and attempted to challenge what was thought to be a
     ship on parallel course and same speed on constant bearing 3000 yards abeam
     to port. On receiving no reply dived at 0049. No propellers audible.
0055 Came to 55 feet to copy radio schedule.
0110 Surfaced and proceeded at 18 knots. What had been thought to be a ship was
     a small dark cloud, now lifted from the water and still on about the same
     true bearing.
0140 Slowed to take sounding.
0142 Resumed speed.
0216 Slowed to take sounding.
0220 C/c to 202° in order to give shore line wider berth and resumed speed.
0239 Resumed course and slowed to take sounding.
0242 Resumed speed 18.
0248 Increased to 19 knots, having definitely established land fall on Cape
     FOURCROY. (This would have been impossible without moonlight).
0333 C/c to 118°
0348 C/c to 122° to head for rendezvous with BRITISH Patrol Vessel, and slowed
     to 11.5 knots.
0620 Identified BRITISH Patrol Vessel who told us he would lead us in. Steered
     various courses at various speeds to follow him. (His maximum speed was
     about 9 knots. After breaking down twice he came on board of us and left
     his boat to shift for itself. We offered to tow him but he declined. This
     type of boat entirely unsuited for leading anything into harbor through an
     18-mile "searched channel").
0906 Passed entrance buoys and at
0940 Moored to HOLLAND at Port DARWIN.

End of Narrative

[SIGNATURE: F. B. Warder]
F. B. WARDER,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy,
Commanding.

[HANDWRITTEN: ENC A]
[HANDWRITTEN: 205]

— page 46 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

DECLASSIFIED

B. Weather

December 31, 1941
Commenced with winds NE 1, ended with winds NW 4; clouds 8 to 3 to 7; visibility
30 to 50 to 40; seas 0 to 4 E to 2 NW.

January 1, 1942
Commenced with wind N3, freshened to N5 at 2000, ended N2; clouds 8 to 4 to 2.
Visibility excellent; sea 2 to 4 to 2.

January 2, 1942
Winds N4 to NE 5 to NE 2; clouds 2 to 10 to 7; visibility good; seas 5 to 4, with
good chop.

January 3, 1942
Winds NE 3 to calm to N2. Clouds 8 to 5 to 2 to 7. Sea 5NE to N2.

January 4, 1942
Winds NE 3 to 4, clouds 2 to 5 to 7; sea NE4 to 2 to 4.

January 5, 1942
Winds NE 3 to 1 to NE 3; clouds 4 to 9; sea 5 NE to 4 SE to NE 1 to NE 2;
visibility 30.

January 6, 1942
Winds NE 3 to NW 1; clouds 6 to 2; visibility 30 to 15 to 30; sea 1 to 0.

January 7, 1942
Winds NW 1 to NE 2; clouds 3 to 5 to 9; visibility 30 to 50 to 15 to 25; sea 1 to
0; occasional rain squalls.

January 8, 1942
Winds NE 2 to SW 1 to SW 2; clouds 9 to 7 to 10; visibility 30 to 40 to 15 to 20.
Sea condition 1; occasional rains.

January 9, 1942
Winds SW 2; clouds 7; visibility 30; sea 1.

[HANDWRITTEN: 6]
[HANDWRITTEN: ENC F 206]

— page 47 —
DECLASSIFIED
[UNCLEAR: SECRET (struck through)]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
                                                                                             12
C. Tidal Information
     January 4, 1942
     In vicinity lat. 5° N, 125° 15' E observed set and drift for/hour period between
     0625 and 1825 (zone -8) to be 2.8 knots, 242° (at 120 feet).

     January 5, 1942
     In vicinity lat. 3° 15' N, long. 126° 30' E observed set and drift to be 098°,
     2.2 knots between 0458 and 1817 (zone -8); at 120 feet.
                                                                                             [HANDWRITTEN: 7]
                                                                                             [HANDWRITTEN: ENC 201]

— page 48 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

D. Navigational Aids.
December 31, 1941 to January 9, 1942.
Noted FORTUNE and CABRA to be lighted; all other lights to and including BASILAN
STRAIT to be extinguished. All Dutch and English lights extinguished.

There is need for a light on C. HELVETIUS or C. POURCROY if ships are to make 100
fathom curve to DARWIN during night. Not necessary in moonlite for ships equipped
with Charts of Portfolios Nos 24 and 49.

[HANDWRITTEN: ENC H 208]

— page 49 —
DECLASSIFIED
                                                                U.S.S. SEAWOLF

E. Description of Ships Sighted

USS WM B PRESTON or USS CHILDS; 8° 27' S., 129° 12' E., course 010°, speed 12;
1215 (zone -9).

                                                                                                [HANDWRITTEN: 9]
                                                                                                [HANDWRITTEN: ENC "A" 209]

— page 50 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

F. Description of Aircraft Sighted

None sighted; except friendly aircraft in PORT DARWIN approaches.

[HANDWRITTEN: 10]
[HANDWRITTEN: ENC 210]

— page 51 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

J. General Remarks

1. Patrol was conducted en route base at PORT DARWIN. Following officers and
   enlisted men were on board as passengers:

   Commander J. Fife, jr., U.S. Navy;
   Commander E. H. Bryant, U.S. Navy;
   Commander J. A. Connolly, U.S. Navy;
   Lieut. Comdr. M. C. Mumma, jr., U.S. Navy;
   Lieut. Comdr. R. B. Vanzant, U.S. Navy;
   Lieut. (jg) W.V. Combs, U.S. Navy.

   IRISH, D.W., RM1c, USN;
   BOROWSKI, A.A., Y1c, USN;
   WOODWARD, C.C., RM2c, USN;
   LLANES, A., OffStd2c, USN.

   48 "Pollywogs" were initiated into the mysteries of the deep when the ship
   "crossed the line" submerged on 6 January 1942.

2. Officers and crew are somewhat in need of rest, sunlight, and exercise after
   31 days of submerged operations (all surface running was done at night except
   for about 11 hours).

[HANDWRITTEN: 11]
[HANDWRITTEN: ENC 97]
[HANDWRITTEN: 211]

— page 52 —
DECLASSIFIED
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

B. Weather

January 16, 1942 Winds NW1 to SW1; clouds 5 to 2; hazy; visibility 20; sea flat
calm.

January 17, 1942 Winds SW1 to SW2; cloudy (9 to 4 to 8 to 3); visibility 20; sea
0 to 1.

January 18, 1942 Winds SW2 to SW1; clouds 3 to 7 to 1; visibility 20; sea 1 to 0.

January 19, 1942 Winds NW1 to NW2 to SW1; clouds 1 to 5 to 2 to 9 to 2; visibility
30 to 25; occasional rain squalls vicinity BURU; sea NW1 to NW2 to 0.

January 20, 1942 Winds SW1 to NE 2; clouds 3 to 7 to 6; visibility 30; occasional
rain squalls; sea SW1 to NE1.

January 21, 1942 Winds NE2 to N4; commenced clear, visibility 30; ending cloudy,
rainy, overcast; clouds 3 to 8 to 10; seas 2 to 5 to 2.

January 22, 1942 Winds N4 to NE4; commenced overcast and rainy; ended clear;
clouds 10 to 6; seas 5N to 2NE.

January 23, 1942 Winds N2 to NE1; sky cloudy, 2 to 6 to 7; visibility 30, sea N1 to 0.

January 24, 1942 Winds NE 2 to E4; cloudy; seas NE1 to E4.

January 25, 1942 Winds NE2 to E4 to NE2; cloudy to clear; seas 6NE to 4E to 1 NE.

January 26, 1942 Winds NE3 to NE1 to NE4; clouds 1 to 2; hazy, seas NE5 to NE1.

January 27, 1942 Winds N2 to NW4; clouds 1 to 4 to 1 to 9; visibility 30 to 15;
seas NW4 to NW2.

January 28, 1942 Winds NE1 to NE4 to SE4; clouds 6 to 2 to 10 to 4; seas NNE2 to
NE1 to SE1.

January 29, 1942 Winds E3; clouds 7 to 3; visibility 20 to 15 to 25; seas SE1.

January 30, 1942 Winds E2 to ENE4; clouds 3 to 8; visibility 30 to 10; seas SE1
to ENE4 to S1.

January 31, 1942 Winds S1 to N3 to NE4; clouds 8 to 2 to 7 to 4; visibility 25;
seas S1 to NE2.

February 1, 1942 Winds NE3; clouds 2 to 9; seas NE5 to NE1.

February 2, 1942 Winds NE2 to N4 to N2; clouds 8 to 3 to 9; visibility 20; seas E1
to N1.

February 3, 1942 Winds N1 to NE3; clouds 10 to 3 to 7; visibility 20; seas N1 to NE1.

February 4, 1942 Winds NE1 to NW3; clouds 6 to 1 to 9; visibility 20 to 10 to 20;
seas NE1 to 0 to NW2.

[HANDWRITTEN: 876]

— page 53 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

B. Weather (Continued)

February 5, 1942 Winds NW1 to WNW3; clouds 6 to 3; visibility 20 to 5 to 15; sea NW1
to WNW4.

February 6, 1942 Winds W2 to WNW3; clouds 7 to 4 to 8 to 3; visibility 15 to 10 to
25 to 15; seas W4 to 2 WNW.

[HANDWRITTEN: 15]
[HANDWRITTEN: 877]

— page 54 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

D. Navigational Aids

January 27, 1942
CABRA and FORTUNE IS. lights burning.

January 28, 1942
SUESTE PT. and CAPONES IS. lights extinguished.

January 30, 1942
CABRA and FORTUNE lights burning.

All other lights en route extinguished.

[HANDWRITTEN: 16]
[HANDWRITTEN: 878]

— page 55 —
DECLASSIFIED
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

E. Description of Ships Sighted

January 21, 1942
1802 4 DD in approximate line abreast; 1 to 2 miles apart; ASASHIO type; courses
     and speeds various - in general southerly at about 20 to 0 knots; approximate
     position 1° 24' N, 125° 35' E.
1833 1 CL (KUMA type); courses southerly; speed 13; same locality as above.
1839 to 1857 7 APs; type not distinguishable; 6 on north-easterly courses, 1 on
     south-westerly course; speeds unknown; same locality as above.
1855 to 1910 Searchlight signals from west to north-west; ships not identified;
     believed to be 4 ships not listed above; same general locality.

January 22, 1942
0010 2 unidentified ships; course south-westerly; speed high; approximate position
     1° 34' N, 125° 31' E.

January 25, 1942
2207 Unidentified sailing schooner of about 50-100 foot length; 2 masts; course
     SE about 2 miles off South-western PANAY. Darkened.

January 27, 1942
0851 Motor driven scow; looked like PASIG RIVER freight barge; gasoline or diesel
     engine smoking heavily; about a dozen men on deck; course northwesterly, speed
     about 10. About 8 miles west of BAGAC VILLAGE. Learned afterwards that this
     was type of craft JAPS were using for landing small infiltration parties on
     southwestern portion of BATAAN peninsula.

January 31, 1942
2238 Unidentified 2-masted lugger of about 60 feet length, without lights, course
     westerly, low speed, about 10 miles off southwestern PANAY.

[HANDWRITTEN: 17]
[HANDWRITTEN: 879]

— page 56 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
S-E-C-R-E-T

F. Description of Aircraft Sighted

January 21, 1942
1602 About 35 miles SE of KEMA; two seaplanes flying low on northeasterly course
or circling slowly to starboard. Believed to be type 95-VOS.

February 7, 1942
1310 Over SURABAYA two planes.

[HANDWRITTEN: 10]
[HANDWRITTEN: 880]

— page 57 —
SDECLASSIFIED
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

I. Major Defects and Casualties

January 17, 1942
Touched bottom at 140 feet (23 fathoms) at 1415 (Zone -9); damaging QC-JK sound
head and Pitometer Log rodmeter; position accurately determined by a.m. and p.m.
stars to have been 11°00'S, 127°50'E. The minimum depth expected in this area
was 40 fathoms. (Charts 3002 and 3416 were in use)

January 22, 1942
Discovered full ground on fathometer projector unit. No more fathometer until
ship is docked.

January 28, 1942
Gasket has come out of NEGATIVE Flood Valve Cover. Unable use NEGATIVE as designed
but must run with it fully flooded. PIGEON diver on night of January 29 unable
to effect repair. Valve cover will have to be removed to do proper job.

February 6, 1942
Discovered salt water running out of starboard water way in forward battery room.
Investigation revealed that:
(1) Leak was from pinhole in forward section of trim line in forward stateroom.
(2) Battery room deck leaks salt water into battery tank in several places which
were exposed to a negligible head of salt water.

Leak in trim line was repaired by ship's force with rubber, friction tape, metal
strap and bolts and trim line tested to 45 pounds per square inch. Removal of
this particular section of pipe, repair and replacement would require 3-4 days of
shift work involving electricians, sheetmetal workers, plumbers, and coppersmiths.

On one previous occasion a battery ground has resulted from salt water leakage
through battery room deck. This condition of leaky seams is apparently general
and early repair is indicated. Ship's force in meantime will endeavor to make
seams tight, but it is apparent that a major job is required here as canvas
gasket material (which had been soaked in litharge) has dried out. Many seams
are under bulkheads, bunks, and other interferences.

This is the second leaking trim line section to be found in this ship since the
outbreak of war.

[HANDWRITTEN: 19]
[HANDWRITTEN: 881]

— page 58 —
SECRET
DECLASSIFIED

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

J. General Remarks

1. On leaving swept channel at DARWIN was challenged by Australian patrol vessel.
   These latter use ALDIS lamps which are too noticeable from seaward. I believe
   they should be made to use tubes.

2. Entry and departure on 28 January and 30 January respectively were very effect-
   ively handled by Com16, Inshore Patrol and Army.

3. Ship arrived designated point for entry SURABAYA three minutes in advance of
   appointed time. Position well fixed by stars at 0332 and by landmarks. Two
   hours seven minutes after designated time (0707, Zone -9) (during which time
   landmarks and horizon had become well obscured and position could not be checked)
   sighted DUTCH Patrol Vessel standing out from SURABAYA and joined him between
   Points U and T. If minefield is really dangerous and is as described in current
   communications this ship was unnecessarily hazarded and a rendezvous to the
   eastward of Point U should be established. The patrol vessel should be at the
   designated point in advance of the ship to be escorted, or else its use should
   be discontinued. Through no fault of the patrol vessel, the latter performed
   no useful task in connection with the entry of this vessel and the value of
   employing a vessel for this purpose appears doubtful to me.

4. Chart 3045 is of little value in navigating vicinity CAPE WILLIAM due to absence
   of location and identification of mountain peaks.

[HANDWRITTEN: 20
882]

— page 59 —
[TYPED]: A.R.P. 20                                                                                             [TYPED]: DR. No.
[TYPED]: BUREAU OF THE NAVY,                                                                                        [TYPED]: 6-2977
[TYPED]: WASHINGTON, D. C.
[TYPED]: 1942
[HANDWRITTEN]: DR. No.

[HANDWRITTEN]: U.S.S. SEAWOLF: Contact off KEMA
[HANDWRITTEN]: and attempted approach on
[HANDWRITTEN]: KUMA type CL. January 21, 1942.
[HANDWRITTEN]: SEAWOLF 1802 position 1°5' N
[HANDWRITTEN]: 125°36' E
[HANDWRITTEN]: Times Zone -9.

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: N
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: ↑
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1/2" = 1000 yds

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: DD
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1802 (This observation
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: evidently taken
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: just before
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: a course change)

[HANDWRITTEN]: DD          DD          DD
[HANDWRITTEN]: 1807        1807        1807

[HANDWRITTEN]: Position, course and speed
[HANDWRITTEN]: these 3 DD to northward
[HANDWRITTEN]: not fixed, except by
[HANDWRITTEN]: general observation.

[HANDWRITTEN]: 1827 By
[HANDWRITTEN]: mast

[HANDWRITTEN]: 1833 CL

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1809
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1830
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: Spd 13X

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1849 AP
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1846-30 AP
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1846 AP
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: (Seven APs counted
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: here 1857)

[HANDWRITTEN]: 1855 Searchlight
[HANDWRITTEN]: signals just
[HANDWRITTEN]: above horizon
[HANDWRITTEN]: (believe to be
[HANDWRITTEN]: DD)
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1855 AP

[HANDWRITTEN]: 1841 CL
[HANDWRITTEN]: 1852
[HANDWRITTEN]: searchlight
[HANDWRITTEN]: signals

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1836 SURFACED
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: in rain
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: Actual course and
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: speed 279° 10K

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1847 CL
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: DD
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1841
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: DD
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1847
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: DD
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1844

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1842 DD
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: hull down

[HANDWRITTEN]: 1854 CL using allmost
[HANDWRITTEN]: blinker or
[HANDWRITTEN]: searchlight

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1839 Made out CL to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1841 tried to get
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1844 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1846 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1847 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1850 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1852 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1854 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1857 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1900 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1902 sighted 3 DD to be
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1904 sighted 3 DD to be

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1820 observed DD
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1821
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1824
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1827
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1830
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1833
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1836
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1839
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1841
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1844
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1846
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1847
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1850
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1852
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1854
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1857
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1900
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 1902 Sighted masts

                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: SEAWOLF en route
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: CORREGIDOR via
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: BANGKA Passage
                                                                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN]: 883

— page 60 —
SS197/A16-3
Serial S-03
[STAMP: SECRET] (crossed out)
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 202

U. S. S. SEAWOLF (SS197)

February 7, 1942.

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander Submarines, U.S. Asiatic Fleet.

Via : Commander Submarine Division Two Hundred Two.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Third War Patrol, forwarding of.

Enclosures: (A) Report of Third War Patrol.
(B) Radio Log. [HANDWRITTEN: missing]
(C) Track Chart for January 21, 1942.

1. Enclosures (A) to (C) are forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: F. B. Warder]
F. B. WARDER

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED NARA, NWMCT-5510 1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: 9/C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5-24-06]

[HANDWRITTEN: (II)]

— page 61 —
SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

Period from January 16, 1942 to February 7, 1942.

Zone times kept: -9, -10, -10-1/2

Area: Enroute DARWIN, Australia to CORREGIDOR to SURABAYA, Java.

Reports follow: (attached)

A. - Narrative.

B. - Weather.

C. - Tidal Information. (No comments; no page "C" included)

D. - Navigational Aids.

E. - Description of Ships Sighted.

F. - Description of Aircraft Sighted.

G. - Attacks. (None made; no page "G" included)

H. - Enemy A/S Measures. (None; no page "H" included)

I. - Major Defects and Casualties.

J. - General Remarks.

[HANDWRITTEN: 2]
[HANDWRITTEN: 864]

— page 62 —
SECRET

MISSION
"FF6-4/A16-3/
A4-3/
Serial (S-002)

S-E-C-R-E-T

From: Commander Submarine Division 203.
To : Commanding Officer, U.S.S. SEAWOLF.

Subject: Operations - Orders for.

1. In obedience to orders from Commander Submarines, U.S. Asiatic
Fleet, you are to proceed via MANIPA STRAITS, SIBUTU PASS, and APO EAST
PASSAGE using best sustained speed to MANILA carrying .50 caliber antiair-
craft ammunition for the relief of CORREGIDOR. You will remove all except
eight (8) torpedoes and such other ammunition as may be necessary to enable
you to carry up to forty (40) tons. The limiting amount of weight which
you can carry will be governed by such trim as will enable you to dive with
safety tank full. You will bring back a full load of torpedoes and such
personnel as has been designated by the Commander in Chief, U.S. Asiatic
Fleet to the Commandant Sixteenth Naval District. Details of communications
for your entry to MANILA will be transmitted to you later.

2. When in all respects ready for sea, you will depart from the
Boom Entrance at 1330 local time, January 16th, carrying out sound exercises
with Australian Naval Forces as has been previously decided upon.

— page 63 —
SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative
January 16, 1942 Got under way from U.S.S. OTUS in accordance with Comsubdiv
1249 (Zone -10-1/2) taken on board 178,875
203 Secret serial S-002 of January 15, 1942, having .50 AA for the relief of
rounds of .50 cal. AP tracer and 72 rounds of 3" out searched channel
CORREGIDOR. (Total weight 72,585 lbs.) Proceeded
and rigged for diving.
1330 On station Point C for joint exercises with Australian A/S vessel WARREGO;
latter not in sight.
1355 Received signal 02037/16 from Comsubsaf via PWSS to effect that exercise
was cancelled and that we should proceed to clear swept channel at dusk.
1423 Submerged near Point D and proceeded to clear searched channel. Listened
on aircraft frequency without result during first 15 minutes each hour.
Exercised TDC party on Australian sloop patrolling channel.
1945 Set clocks back one hour to zone -10.
2018 Surfaced and proceeded at 16 knots.
2050 Challenged by Australian sloop vicinity point E. He should use a tube
instead of ALDIS lamp as signalling must have been quite apparent from sea-
ward.
2058 Cleared swept channel (by guess and dead reckoning) and set course 270° in
order clear enemy submarine which had been reported/in 11°-29' S, 129°-22'
E. (HOUSTON 152050). at dawn
2140 Commenced battery charge.
2340 Increased speed to 18 knots.

January 17, 1942
0155 Completed battery charge.
0214 Changed course to 318° in order approach 100 fathom curve most rapidly
through deepest available water.
0647 Dived to 63 feet and at 0802 having worked out morning stars commenced 120
feet patrol with hourly observations.
1145 Set clocks back one hour to zone -9. During afternoon watch experienced
trouble with depth control on 3 occasions; encountering water of lower
density and recovering control with use of planes, increased speed and pump
at 130 feet.
1400 Observed considerable seaweed through eye-ports. Took sounding - 70 fathoms.
1415 Sank rapidly to 140 feet before recovering control. Evidently scraped bottom
as QC-JK head stopped functioning and pit log began behaving erratically.
Raised head and closed door. Resumed 63 feet patrol. Position of grounding
was subsequently accurately fixed by adjusting run between a.m. and p.m.
stars (see part I).
1901 Sunset.
1918 Surfaced and changed course to 357°; zig-zagging at 17.5 knots.
2003 Slowed to 16 knots, stopped zigging; commenced charge.
2200 Increased to 17.5 knots.
2330 Completed charge and increased speed to 18 knots. Mileage by r.p.m. 234.6.

January 18, 1942
0335 Sighted TIMOR on port bow.
0354 Entered rain squall and slowed to 10 knots.
0420 Increased to 15 knots and changed course to 020° to pass between LETI and
TIMOR.

[HANDWRITTEN: 866]

— page 64 —
SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
January 18, 1942 (Continued)
0426 Clearing; increased speed to 17.5.
0530 Dived and commenced deep patrol with periodic periscope observations;
sea flat, calm and clear.
1258 Sighted 3 schooners close aboard MAOPORA IS.
1707 C/c to 347°.
1900 Listened on aircraft frequency. Heard 2 commercial stations.
1927 C/c to 343° to allow for easterly set observed during afternoon.
1935 Surfaced and proceeded at 16 knots.
2000 Commenced charge.
2200 Increased speed to 17.
2400 Completed charge. Increased to 18 knots. Mileage for day by rpm 199.6.

January 19, 1942
0211 C/c to 005°.
0541 Dived to 120 feet and ran deep patrol with periodic periscope observations.
1015 Sea becoming rougher, commenced 63 feet patrol.
1037 C/c to 308° T. to pass to westward of BURU in accordance Comsubsaf Serial
No. 21.
1038 Heard fathometer working on about 068° T. Nothing in sight.
1100 Listened on airplane frequency for 15 minutes. Heard commercial station.
1235 Sea having calmed, resumed deep patrol.
1650 Heard echo ranging bearing 268° T. Nothing visible.
1704 Ranging ceased. No propellers or noise level audible.
1801 Resumed periscope patrol.
1931 Sound gear working on 18.4 kcs, bearing about 318° T.
1937 High noise level ahead.
1942 Echo ranging at about 320° T.
1945 Surfaced and commenced zig-zag at 18 knots, base course 308°.
2035 Stopped zig-zagging, slowed to 16 knots, commenced charge.
2102 Moonset. Steering various courses to round BURU IS. at about 5 miles.
2238 Increased to 18 knots.
2255 Completed charge. Mileage by rpm 209.5.

January 20, 1942
Having passed BURU to starboard at 0239 set course 025° to head for
LIPOEMATOLA.
0550 Dived and commenced deep patrol, LIPOEMATOLA bearing 020° 30 miles.
1053 Echo ranging bearing 331° T, 19 kcs, nothing in sight.
1109 Pinging on about 140° T.
1450 Few white caps. Began periscope patrol
1850 Set course 341° T. to head for BANGKA Passage.
1931 Surfaced and proceeded at 18 knots.
2000 Slowed to 16 knots and commenced charge.
2200 Increased to 18 knots.
2315 Completed charge. Mileage by rpm 214.5.

[HANDWRITTEN: 867]

— page 65 —
SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
January 21, 1942
0557 Submerged with KEMA bearing 317°, 50 miles.
0657 Sea rough, commenced periscope patrol.
1602 Sighted 2 airplanes to northward, flying low, course north-easterly or
    slowly circling to right. Went to 120 feet except for hourly observations.
    Had been unable to fix position during day account clouds and rain over
    northern CELEBES.
1802 Sighted what was believed to be DD at 14,000 yards true bearing 350 (own
    course 340), angle on bow 3 port, target course 173°. Went to Battle
    Stations. Made out 3 more DD to westward and separated at about equal
    intervals, all giving me port angles on the bow. Assumed that DDs were
    forming sound screen so at
1804 Came right to 039° in order pass around port screening vessel. Sea choppy;
    ideal for periscope; occasional rain squalls. At
1809 decided ship which I thought to be port screen might be cruiser and decided
    to pick him off if assumption was correct; at this time ship bore 004° T,
    angle on bow 7 port, range 5900 (apparently high speed). At
1815 with range of 2900, angle on bow 30° port, came left with full rudder and
    full speed in order to take bow attack at about 1000 yards with 90° ship
    track. (Target speed check 14 knots).
1818 Slowed to one-third.
1819 Steadied on 290° (target estimated course 200°) and at
1820 observed that target had zigged away during my maneuver and had slowed down.
    Positively identified him to be DD of ASASHIO type; tripod mast and high
    fire control tower had fooled me. He and the other three to westward of
    him were apparently maneuvering to take station on various courses at
    various speeds. At
1821 Final observation on this ship. Bearing 261° T, angle on bow 90° P, target
    course 170°, range 5050. Decided to hold course 290° and attempt to develop
    targets astern of DDs. At
1827 Sighted mast bearing 304° and headed for it. At
1833 Made out ship to be cruiser of 3 stacks, KUMA class, range 12,000, angle on
    bow 80 port; target course 197°. Came left to collision course at full
    speed. At
1837 Slowed to one-third and at
1839 Found Freighter-Transport bearing 331° T, angle on bow 100° S, course 053° at
    about 7000 yards.
1841 Observed cruiser to be on bearing 280 T, course 180°, 10,000 yards.
1842 DD bearing 242° T, course 072°, hull down.
1846 Freighter-Transport bearing 319° course 038°, 7000 yards.
1846-30 Another AP in same locality but on opposite course.
1850 Changed course to 237° in order sharpen ship track for CL in hopes he would
    come for me and give me a chance before dark. Now getting dark rapidly.
1854 The CL bore 251, range 12000, course 150°.
1856 Another ship (thought to be DD) using searchlight on bearing 289°, about
    12,000 yards.
1857 Counted total of seven freighter-transports bearing about northwest. Believe
    course to be about north-east, although at least one is heading south-west,
    range about 10000 yards. Are these "empties" bound for PALAU or are they
    taking station with cruiser and destroyers? Rain squalls and darkness adding
    to confusion.

[HANDWRITTEN: 868]

— page 66 —
[STAMP: SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
January 21, 1942 (Continued)
1906 Saw searchlight signals 275° T.
1910 Searchlight signals 270° T.
1910-30 Changed to base course 341° at full speed.
1918 Heard loud explosion. Rigged for depth charge and order 150 feet. No
    propellers audible. May have been practice drop. Ordered 60 feet.
1920 Secured from depth charge quarters.
1936 Surfaced and proceeded at 15 knots on battery.
1939 Shifted to 2 engines.
1958 Cleared contact report and reversed course to 161° to keep in position where
    contact might be regained should Comsubsaf decide to modify my mission.
    Increased speed to 17 knots and commenced battery charge. Gravity 1.180.
2026 Passed through distinct odor of fuel oil. Skys cloudy; intermittent moonlight
    but in our favor. (also intermittent rain)
2046 Changed to 180° to intercept cruiser at midnight (assuming latter held last
    course and speed observed).
2059 Heavy rain set in, slowed to 15 knots. Rain is going with us at about our
    speed.
2200 Having received no instructions from Comsubsaf regarding modification of
    SEAWOLF mission reversed course and increased to 17 knots, still raining.
2217 c/c to 348° for BANGKA Passage.
2220 Increased to 17.5.
2400 Completed charge, increased to 18 knots, c/c to 354° in order give LEMBEH
    little wider berth (no land in sight). Mileage by rpm 212.2.

January 22, 1942
0005 Sighted a flash of light about 1 point on starboard bow; slowed to 10 knots.
0010 Lowered sound shaft. Went to Battle Stations. Secured engines. I was looking
    out forward port of pilot house (still raining) endeavoring to find light
    which had been reported when OOD reported "lights all round us." I jumped
    to pelorus platform and was able to make out flashes of a light abeam to port,
    well above the water, but by the time I could make up my mind which way ship
    was going and how far away it was light was extinguished and I could no longer
    see ship. I could have fired a stern tube but felt sure it would be wasting
    a torpedo. Lookout and OOD reported that there had been 2 ships; one forward
    of beam and one on beam. I believe these were 2 ships in column at high
    speed which passed us at about 2000 yards on a course diverging about 20°
    from opposite of our course.
0042 Increased to 15 knots.
0218 Increased to 18 knots.
0252 Sighted land ahead and came right to 025°.
0257 Identified land as BIARO IS. and found ourselves about 14.5 miles bearing
    044° from our d.r. position.
0304 Changed to North and
0320 Changed to 294° to pass through ROENG PASSAGE. Fathometer is out of commission
    with a full ground in projector unit; possibly a result of the grounding on
    January 17.
0604 Dived and commenced deep patrol with hourly observations.
1450 Sea becoming rougher, commenced periscope patrol.
1550 Sighted what was thought to be a large tripod mast bearing 274°. Headed for
    it at 6 knots. Went to Battle Stations. Bearing changed to 272°.7 and at
1557 went to normal approach at high speed. Bearing drew right rapidly to 276° so

[HANDWRITTEN: 869]

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SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
January 22, 1942 (continued)
assumed he must have zigged. Turned to head for him again and at 1623
decided there must be something "fishy" about the target.
1645 Completed examination of sunken schooner; all the deck under water; the upper
one-third of the mast broken and hanging down; small boom sticking up aft;
two sea gulls sitting on projections from hull giving good imitation of tops
of belled-out Jap smokestacks. Don Quixote and the windmills had nothing on
us.
1939 Surfaced and proceeded at 18 knots.
2000 Slowed to 16.5 and commenced charge.
2119 c/c to 296°.
2225 Increased to 17.5 knots.
2335 Moonset.
2345 Completed charge. Increased to 18 knots. Mileage by rpm 204.3

January 23, 1942
0415 Began trying to get rid of our 221900 to Comsubsaf (reply to his 221641
inquiring what aggressive action we had taken against ships off KEMA) on 8,
12 and 16000 bands without result.
0618 Dived to 120 feet and commenced deep patrol with hourly observations.
0716 c/c to 298° T.
1946 Surfaced and proceeded at 18 knots.
1951 Finally cleared our 221900.
2001 Commenced charge, slowed to 17 knots.
2045 c/c to 288°.
2200 Increased to 18 knots.
2320 Sighted MANUK MANKA on starboard bow.
2339 c/c to 270°.
2400 Completed charge. Mileage by rpm 218.9.

January 24, 1942
0001 Commenced steering various courses to go through SIBUTU Passage.
0030 Moonset. Experienced a 2 knot northerly set about 2 hours subsequent to high
water stand.
0420 Having passed PEAL Bank to port set course 024°.
0626 Dived to 120 feet and at
0730 Commenced periscope patrol, sea moderate with white caps.
1945 Surfaced and proceeded at 17 knots.
2000 Started battery charge.
2154 Increased to 18.
2335 Completed charge. Mileage by rpm 222.2.

January 25, 1942
0120 Moonset.
0431 Port screw pulling heavy load with vibration. Stopped and backed. Forward
Torpedo Room reported having hit something on port side.
0434 Worked up to 18 knots; port screw now clear.
0618 Dived to 120 feet and at
0701 Commenced periscope patrol.
0831 Went to 120 feet account trouble controlling depth in heavy head seas.
1013 Sound reported high noise level to port. Came to periscope depth but could
find no target.
[HANDWRITTEN: 870]

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S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
January 25, 1942 (Continued)
1433 Sighted south-west PANAY bearing 036°.
1612 Sound reported pinging on port quarter. Nothing visible.
1817 c/c to 005°.
1952 Surfaced and proceeded at 18 knots.
2000 c/c to head for unidentified light.
2032 Light appeared to be electric torch on NASO PT. signalling to seaward. Went
 to Battle Stations and c/c to 015°.5 (bearing of light which later proved to
 be grass fire on point of land but which was first thought to be signalling
 ship).
2052 Secured from Battle Stations and commenced steering various courses to keep
 between land and normal steamer route account moonlight.
2145 Sighted what was though to be a DD, SS or sailing vessel and headed for it on
 009°; went to Battle Stations and conducted approach. At
2207 Definitely identified ship to be sailing schooner, running without lights.
 Passed at about 1500 yards. Secured from Battle Stations and proceeded north-
 ward. Mileage by rpm 212.1
2240 Commenced battery charge.

January 26, 1942
0206 Moonset.
0240 Completed charge and increased to 18 knots.
0627 Dived in APO East Pass and commenced deep patrol with periodic periscope
 observations.
1442 Sea becoming rougher began periscope patrol.
1432 Sighted what appeared to be a mast bearing 233° and headed for same.
1446 Ascertained that structure was APO Is. Light. Came to course north.
1935 c/c to north.
1955 Surfaced and proceeded at 18 knots.
2010 Commenced charge; slowed to 17.
2020 Cleared my 261110 to NPO informing Comsubsaf & Com16 SEAWOLF would arrive
 one day early but would spend the day hunting unless otherwise ordered.
 Steering various courses in order give Cape CALAVITE, LUBANG & CABRA wide
 berth and to approach designated point from direction of moon.
2200 Increased to 18 knots.
2304 Sighted CABRA Is. light bearing 004°, 21 miles.
2335 Completed charge. Mileage by rpm for day 213.9.

January 27, 1942
0300 FORTUNE IS. Light 125°.5, about 22 miles.
0302 Moonset.
0358 Having received no instructions to enter a day early headed for BAGAC BAY.
 (Giving LUZON PT. a berth of 7 miles)
 There has been considerable searchlight activity on CORREGIDOR, rockets on the
 peninsula, and a small searchlight working vicinity BAGAC.
0515 Slowed to 14 knots.
0526 Went to Battle Stations and flooded down.
0539 Slowed to 10 knots.
0556 After a rapid succession of red rockets around the bay from neighborhood of
 BAGAC village to LUZON PT. and flash and noise of gunfire around direction of
 MARIVELES dived to periscope depth with PANDIL Island 000°, 2 miles heading
 for MT. BATAAN on 113°.
[HANDWRITTEN: 9]
[HANDWRITTEN: 871]

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SECRET
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
January 27, 1942 (Continued)
0612 Circled to starboard awaiting sufficient visibility to examine bay.
0649 Steadied on 060°.
0730 Completed examination of BAGAC Bay; no shipping here. Secured from Battle
     Stations and headed for entrance to SUBIC; keeping at periscope depth.
0851 Sighted motor driven barge bearing 228° on northwesterly course; gasoline or
     diesel engine smoking heavily; looks like PASIG River freight barge; about
     a dozen people on deck; about 2000 yards, speed 10. Not a very seaworthy
     looking craft.
1158 Completed examination of SUBIC Bay from seaward at a distance of 7 miles from
     GRANDE IS. No shipping visible. Continued to northeast to examine PORT
     SILANGUIN.
1351 Nothing in SILANGUIN as viewed over rocks from south.
1653 Heard sound gear working, bearing 040°. Nothing in sight. Evidently an
     echo off bank from something to seaward. During afternoon watch fixed location
     of 3 buoys as follows:
     Easternmost buoy 1.8 miles south of SUESTE PT. Light.
     Buoy 14° 43'.2 N; 120° 06'.8 E.
     Buoy 14° 43'.7 N; 120° 04'.4 E.
     Buoys are small; carry sticks about 6 feet high on which fly new OPTION flags.
     Plainly visible in periscope at 4 miles. Subsequently reported these buoys
     to Com16.
1920 Completed examination of PORT SILANGUIN and NAZASO Bays from seaward at 100
     fathom curve; no shipping.
1956 Surfaced and proceeded at various courses and speeds so as to approach
     rendezvous from seaward with moon back of us. Numerous rockets and some
     searchlight activity during night on peninsula. Mileage by rpm for day 179.1

January 28, 1942
0400 Contacted MTB at rendezvous and followed him through minefields.
0633 Submerged 1 miles east of entrance for SOUTH DOCK and at 0655 put ship on
     bottom at 135 feet.
1936 Surfaced.
2004 Moored starboard side to SOUTH DOCK CORREGIDOR. Commenced unloading ammunition
     with aid of Army personnel.
2041 Having received warning of likelihood of night bombing between 2100 and 2400
     got under way and stood out to about 1 mile east of CABALLO; lay to awash.

January 29, 1942
0007 On receipt of word by motor boat that likelihood of bombing had passed, stood
     in and secured to dock and commenced unloading.
0445 Moonset.
0543 Having unloaded all ammunition and having taken on board 8 torpedoes stood out
     and at
0630 dived about 1 miles east of CORREGIDOR.
0700 On bottom at 128 feet.
1946 Surfaced and at
2017 Moored starboard side to south dock at CORREGIDOR.

January 30, 1942
0100 (About) Completed loading torpedoes and spares.
0200 Passengers designated by Cincaf to Com16 reported on board.
0318 Got under way and stood out.
0345 Submerged for trim.

[HANDWRITTEN: 10]
[HANDWRITTEN: 872]

— page 70 —
SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
January 30, 1942 (Continued)
0439 Surfaced and stood in to inner minefield.
0447 Lying to between mine fields awaiting moonset.
0601 Moon having set, cleared outer minefield and proceeded at 18 knots.
0633 Dived to 120 feet and at
0707 Commenced 63 foot patrol.
0740 Sighted ship entering outer minefield, range 8 to 10 miles, details not
     distinguishable except life boat is rigged out on port side.
1945 Surfaced with CABRA bearing 154°; 15 miles and proceeded on various courses
     to traverse APO East Pass well to seaward, speed 18 knots.
2015 Started charge and slowed to 17 knots.
2200 Increased to 17.5. Mileage by rpm 135.5.

January 31, 1942
0015 Completed charge and increased to 18 knots.
0610 Moonset.
0631 Dived to 120 feet with MANIGUIN IS. bearing 105°, 17 miles.
0730 Commenced 63 foot patrol.
1947 Surfaced and proceeded at 18 knots, steering various courses to skirt coast
     of PANAY outside range of visibility for shore observation.
2000 Slowed to 17 knots and commenced charge.
2150 Increased to 18.
2238 Sighted two-masted lugger, 60 feet length, running without lights, course west,
     low speed. Mileage by rpm 207.6.

February 1, 1942
0245 Set course 204°.5 to head for PEARL BANK.
0625 Moonset. Dived to 120 feet and commenced deep patrol with hourly observations.
0803 Sea becoming choppier, ran at 63 feet.
1400 Sea becoming calm resumed deep patrol.
1830 Resumed periscope patrol.
1900 Surfaced and proceeded at 18 knots.
2005 Slowed to 17 and commenced charge.
2200 Increased to 18 knots.
2335 Completed charge. Mileage by rpm 221.2

February 2, 1942
0255 Sighted DOG CAN IS. bearing about 175°.
0630 Dived in SIBUTU PASS about 9 miles west of BONGAO, to 120 feet. Had considerable
     trouble with depth control and steering due to currents. On periscope observa-
     tion at 0730 noted that ship was in heavy tide rips.
0911 Sea becoming choppy began periscope patrol.
1958 Surfaced and proceeded at 17 knots.
2020 Started battery charge.
2200 Increased to 18 knots. Mileage by rpm 220.7.

February 3, 1942
0035 Completed battery charge.
0230 Light rain squall.
0635 Dived to 120 feet and commenced deep patrol with hourly periscope observations.
1614 Having identified NORTH WATCHER c/c to 210°.
1940 c/c to 205°.
[HANDWRITTEN: 11]
[HANDWRITTEN: 873]

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[STAMP: SECRET]
S-E-C-R-E-T

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
February 3, 1942 (Continued)
2001 Surfaced and proceeded at 17 knots.
2020 Commenced battery charge.
2051 Moonrise.
2236 C/c to 196°.
2210 Increased speed to 18.
2340 Completed charge. Mileage by rpm 222.7.

February 4, 1942
0430 Light rain squalls commenced.
0445 Stars at 0331 showed set of 147°, drift 2.4 knots; c/c to 209.
0642 Dived to 120 feet; raining; considerable uncertainty as to just where we are
     but believe we are in general vicinity CAPE WILLIAM.
0728 Commenced periscope patrol; some white caps, rain, visibility low. Made out
     land to port during forenoon but Chart No. 3045 is of little use in this
     neighborhood due to absence of altitude indications and paucity of peaks
     shown on chart. The peaks are there (on CELEBES) but they are not plotted.
1001 c/c to 180°.
1655 Sea becoming calm began deep patrol with hourly observations.
1825 Resumed periscope patrol.
1926 Sunset.
2001 Surfaced and proceeded at 17 knots.
2020 Commenced charge, and slowed to 15 knots.
2151 Moonrise.
2328 C/c to 220°.
2345 Completed charge. Having recognized impossibility of entering SURABAYA at
     2000, Zone Zero, February 5, adjusted speed for remainder of patrol to have
     safest diving water for depth and to arrive off SURABAYA 2000 Zone Zero
     February 6. Mileage by rpm 209.5.

February 5, 1942
0644 Dived to 120 feet and at:
0727 Commenced periscope patrol 15 miles to eastward LIMA IS.
1956 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
2015 Commenced charge.
2043 Having fixed position by stars proceeded at 16 knots.
2400 Completed charge. Mileage by rpm 196.8.

February 6, 1942
0005 Slowed to 12 knots.
0210 C/c to 212°. Rain squalls.
0500 Having passed SEKALA IS. to starboard c/c to 232° T.
1228 Sighted SEPANJANG IS. bearing 280°, distant 14 miles.
2025 Surfaced and proceeded at 15 knots.
2055 Slowed to 12 and commenced charge.
2337 Moonrise. Mileage by rpm 196.8.

February 7, 1942
     Proceeding at various courses and speeds to arrive Point Unit.
0418 Sighted ship and made bearing 201° T.
0420 Ship drew aft to 188° T. Believed to be S/M at high speed on easterly course.
0457 Arrived Point Unit. Steered various courses and speeds in attempt: remain
     clear of mine field and contact patrol boat (See General Remarks).
[HANDWRITTEN: 12]
[HANDWRITTEN: 874]

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SECRET
S-E-C-R-E-T

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)
February 7, 1942 (Continued)
0707 Sighted Patrol Boat on easterly course, bearing 262°, 5 miles. Followed
vessel to Point T.
0850 Proceeded independently to conform to mine field, decks awash.
1248 Radio reported "_______ AIR RAID."
1310 Sighted two planes circling over SURABAYA. Dived and ran periscope patrol.
During afternoon exercised TDC party on DUTCH ship of VAN GHENT type, which
latter was running on various courses at various speed and later stood out
mine field to seaward.

[SIGNATURE: F. B. Warder]
F. B. WARDER,
Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy,
Commanding.

[HANDWRITTEN: 13]
[HANDWRITTEN: 875]

— page 73 —
SS197/A16-3
Serial S04
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: SECRET]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 202

U. S. S. SEAWOLF (SS197)

April 7, 1942.

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander Submarines, U.S. Asiatic Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

Enclosures: (A) War Patrol Report (Parts A-J).
(B) Radio Log. -> [HANDWRITTEN: Missing CNO]
(C) Track Charts.
(D) Tide and Current Charts LOMBOK STRAIT.

1. Enclosures (A) to (C) inclusive are forwarded here-
with. There was contact with enemy on February 19, February 25,
March 31, and April 1.

[SIGNATURE: F. B. Warder]
F. B. WARDER

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED NARA R445 OPNAVINST 5510.30]
[STAMP: BY [HANDWRITTEN: 916] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 8-24-66]]
[HANDWRITTEN: H]

41195 [STAMP: FILMED]

— page 74 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF.
A. Narrative

February 15, 1942 (SURABAYA and JAVA SEA)

1450 (Zone -7-1/2) Got under way from SURABAYA Roadstead and stood
     out of WEST GATE at various courses and speeds.
1632 Pilot WOLTHERS left the ship. Stood over to join Patrol Vessel
     to transit minefields.
1752 On signal from patrol vessel proceeded independently, course
     north, speed 17.
1759 C/c to 329° to pass through directed point.
1803 Clear of DANGER AREA; dived to periscope depth.
1834 Sunset.
1905 Surfaced in heavy head sea and proceeded at 5 knots.
1916 Increased to 15 knots.
1927 Passed through designated point and c/c to 076°.
1930 Commenced charge.
2114 Increased to 17 knots.
2345 Secured the charge.
2400 Set clocks ahead to Zone -8. Mileage by rpm 119.9.

February 16, 1942 (JAVA SEA)

0315 As result of star sights with bubble octant c/c to 054°, ship
     having experienced a set to southeastward of 3.5 knots (doubt-
     ful fix but course changed on side of safety).
0559 Dived to periscope depth.
1207 On hearing a propeller count of 100 r.p.m. on hull spots
     lowered sound head but noise faded out before location was
     possible. Visibility about 1000 yards, raining heavily, over-
     cast sky. Keeping continued periscope watch.
1530 Clearing; resumed 10-minute observations.
1600 Sighted KALAMBAU and MATA SIRI Islands and at
1610 C/c to 100° in order pass AURORA Reef 5 miles to port.
     (Fix of preceding night had been faulty or counter current
     had taken charge).
1909 Surfaced and proceeded at 15 knots.
1924 Started charge.
2134 On decoding second sentence of CSAF serial 86 c/c to 155° to
     head for route to LOMBOK STRAIT.
2206 Increased to 17 knots. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 212.0.

February 17, 1942 (JAVA SEA and LOMBOK STRAIT)

0027 Having cleared 100-fathom curve c/c to 199° to head for center
     of LOMBOK STRAIT.
0050 Completed charge. Put No. 2 auxiliary on screws to make battery
     water.
0248 On decoding CSAF serial 88 slowed to 11 knots and lowered
     sound shaft; raining heavily.
0537 Dived to 110 feet.
0618 Commenced periscope patrol.
0705 Sighted LOMBOK IS. and at
0740 C/c to 210°.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 2]

— page 75 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. Narrative

February 15, 1942 (SURABAYA and JAVA SEA)

1450 (Zone -7-1/2) Got under way from SURABAYA Roadstead and stood
     out of WEST GATE at various courses and speeds.
1632 Pilot WOLTHERS left the ship. Stood over to join Patrol Vessel
     to transit minefields.
1752 On signal from patrol vessel proceeded independently, course
     north, speed 17.
1759 c/c to 329° to pass through directed point.
1803 Clear of DANGER AREA; dived to periscope depth.
1834 Sunset.
1905 Surfaced in heavy head sea and proceeded at 5 knots.
1916 Increased to 15 knots.
1927 Passed through designated point and c/c to 076°.
1930 Commenced charge.
2144 Increased to 17 knots.
2345 Secured the charge.
2400 Set clocks ahead to Zone -8. Mileage by rpm 119.9.

February 16, 1942 (JAVA SEA)

0315 As result of star sights with bubble octant c/c to 054°, ship
     having experienced a set to southeastward of 3.5 knots (doubt-
     ful fix but course changed on side of safety).
0559 Dived to periscope depth.
1207 On hearing a propeller count of 100 r.p.m. on hull spots
     lowered sound head but noise faded out before location was
     possible. Visibility about 1000 yards, raining heavily, over-
     cast sky. Keeping continued periscope watch.
1530 Clearing; resumed 10-minute observations.
1600 Sighted KALAMBAU and MATA SIRI Islands and at
1610 c/c to 100° in order pass AURORA Reef 5 miles to port.
     (Fix of preceding night had been faulty or counter current
     had taken charge).
1909 Surfaced and proceeded at 15 knots.
1924 Started charge.
2134 On decoding second sentence of CSAF serial 86 c/c to 155° to
     head for route to LOMBOK STRAIT.
2206 Increased to 17 knots. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 212.0.

February 17, 1942 (JAVA SEA and LOMBOK STRAIT)

0027 Having cleared 100-fathom curve c/c to 199° to head for center
     of LOMBOK STRAIT.
0050 Completed charge. Put No. 2 auxiliary on screws to make battery
     water.
0248 On decoding CSAF serial 88 slowed to 11 knots and lowered
     sound shaft; raining heavily.
0537 Dived to 110 feet.
0618 Commenced periscope patrol.
0705 Sighted LOMBOK IS. and at
0740 c/c to 210°.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 2]

— page 76 —
CONFRET
A. Narrative (Continued)
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 17, 1942 (Continued)

1914 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
2016 Started battery charge.
2118 c/c to 214°.
2213 Experiencing strong set to southward, c/c to 224°.
2305 c/c to 234°.
2312 c/c to 270° to open strait. Cloudy, rain squalls, low visibil-
     ity.
2333 c/c to 214°. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 170.9.

February 18, 1942 (LOMBOK STRAIT and Southern Approaches)

0015 Completed charge.
0030 Rain squall.
0110 Heavy rain and 20-knot wind.
0149 C/c to 180°.
0159 Stopped. Took sounding. No bottom at 55 fathoms. Proceeded
     at various speeds to clear strait in rain and low visibility.
0416 Clearing; set course 270° to patrol east-west line 5 miles
     south of TAFEL HOEK.
0527 Dived.
0618 c/c to 290°; experiencing northerly set. Decided to investigate
     landmarks and currents of southern approach to BADUNG STRAIT.
     Steered various courses and experienced northerly currents
     entire day. See track chart for track made good.
0752 Sound reported 2 sets of propellers to southeastward. Nothing
     visible.
1929 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots, set course 180° in order
     clear strait and patrol southern approaches on east-west line
     5 miles south of NUSA BESAR.
2000 Commenced charge.
2052 c/c to 090°.
2100 Moonset.
2115 Sighted fires burning vicinity BENOA, bearing 317°. C/c to
     317° to investigate.
2148 Decided fires due to local destruction of oil and gasoline
     stowage in expectation JAP landing and reversed course in order
     to regain patrol station and avoid revealing vessel in fire-
     light.
2200 c/c to 090°. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 150.7.

February 19, 1942 (Southern Approaches to LOMBOK STRAIT; BADUNG ST.)

0010 c/c to 270°.
0021 On decoding of CSAF serial 94 directing SEAWOLF close in
     (received at 2330) increased speed to 18 knots.
0027 C/c to 327°.
0045 Completed battery charge.
0100 Went to Battle Stations.
0124 c/c to 270° and slowed to 10 knots to avoid shore on NUSA BESAR.
0132 c/c to 315° and proceeded at 18 knots to head for probable
     landing point.

[HANDWRITTEN: H3]

— page 77 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. Narrative (Continued)

February 19, 1942 (Continued)

0143 c/c to 305° to head for flash of light.
0206 Stopped and flooded down. Cut out 2 main engines.
0208 c/c to 330° T. to head for flash of light.
0212 Proceeding at 5 and 10 knots.
     Sound reported high noise level bearing 047° T. moving aft
     rapidly.
0214 High noise on steady bearing, getting louder. Increased to 10
     knots.
0217 Screws bearing 045°, 337° and 057° T.
0218 c/c to 310° to head for flash of light.
0221 c/c to 355° to head for flash of light.
0230 Pinging on starboard bow.
0233 Pinging steadily on port side.
0236 Pinging close aboard. c/c to 322° at 10 knots to leave them
     a wake to ping on.
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓] 0239 Pinger on port beam.
0240 Sighted DD abeam to port, close aboard (Estimate 1000 yards).
     Angle on bow 90° port. Left full rudder, ahead full, dived and
     steadied on 204°. Unable to see him through periscope.
0243 Sound reported target had found us. Commenced evasion tactics.
     Can make out pings of 2 ships differing in frequency by 1 kc
     and hear screws of 2 others. Remained at periscope depth
     account uncertainty of depth.
0246 Decided to go out on 110° until DR could be run up and things
     quieted down.
0255 Pingers apparently lost us. Now bearing 270° and 287° T.
0259 Went to 90 feet and steadied on 322° T. to head for likely
     landing place. Employed evasion tactics twice on way in.
0346 c/c to 270°. Housed sound shaft (only one remaining) and pit
     log account uncertainty of currents.
0400 Secured from Battle Stations.
0407 c/c to 030° to stay off beach.
0418 c/c to 210°.
0519 Battle Stations.
0531 63 feet. Raining heavily. Circled to await improvement of
     visibility.
0603 Sighted light bearing 260° and headed for it.
0604 Sighted ASASHIO DD bearing 129° T. and realized we must have
     penetrated successfully. Continued on 260°.
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓] 0622 Rain increasing, nothing in sight, resumed circling with left
     full rudder.
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓] 0630 Hit bottom forward with ship's head 126° T. (63 feet). Backed
     emergency.
0631 All back full.
0633 All back 2/3.
0635 All stop. Shifted to low periscope and endeavored to maintain
     55 feet. Nothing in sight. Heavy rain.
0636 Starboard ahead standard, left full rudder.
0637 All ahead 2/3, steady on 090°.

[HANDWRITTEN: H4]

— page 78 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)

February 19, 1942 (Continued)

0642 Hit bottom violently, starboard side, entire length of ship.
     All stop, surface, blowing SAFETY only.
0643 All back emergency. All stop. I went on bridge and found
     myself well fenced in with coral patches and discolored water.
     Raining heavily, visibility 500-1000 yards. Picked myself a
     hole and went ahead, starboard ahead standard, left full. Then
     port ahead standard, right full.
0645 All ahead standard, steady on 105°.
0646 C/c to 120°.
0648 Rapid pursuit, two main engines.
0650 C/c to 070°.
0654 C/c to 115°. All shoal water now cleared. A cruiser or
     destroyer in sight bearing about 180°, headed southwest, about
     6 miles away. Don't think he can see me account low visibility
     and land background.
0700 Cruiser disappearing, began battery charge using 2 main engines.
0707 C/c to 180°.
0724 Sighted 4-engine plane on course west and dived to 120 feet.
     Plane flying about 2000 feet high, broad on port quarter, 5000
     yards.
0728 C/c to 270° to head for what was thought to be TAPEL HOEK.
0740 Began periscope patrol.
0830 Weather clearing and having identified land marks again headed
     into BADUNG STRAIT on course north. Run back of DR showed that
     ship had struck off SERANGAN IS.
0855 Sighted smoke bearing 015° and headed for it at 6 knots.
0905 Slowed and observed that ship was ASASHIO DD at 14,400 yards.
     Went to Battle Stations. DD circled to starboard and by 0929
     had gone out of sight to the north.
0946 Again sighted this DD bearing 350.1; continued on course north.
1007 Similar DD on northerly course, bearing 277°, 11000 yards.
1151 Realized that we were not getting in fast enough so increased
     to 4.5 knots except for periscope observations at about 15
     minute intervals. This morning we are bucking a current
     whereas all day yesterday we found currents setting us in. Sea
     is glassy, long swells, occasional violent tide rips and whirl-
     pools.
1256 Sighted masts in SANUR ROAD about 2 miles south of TG. GELING
     and headed for same on 337° T.
1316 ASASHIO DD bearing 327° T, 16000 yards, lying to.
1350 Battle Stations. At this time 1 DD at 12000 yards, bearing
     335° T, 80° P; 1 DD at 16000 yards, bearing 352° T, angle on
     bow 90° S; 1 freighter-transport similar to AKAGI MARU and 1
     freighter-transport similar to KINAI MARU (Booth's Merchant
     Ships No. 56 and No. 55) bearing 330° and 333° respectively.
     Continued on course 337°.
1417 DD commenced pinging on port bow and between 1417 and 1424
     developed a total of 4 ASASHIO DDs milling about at low speed
     on various courses between APs and strait.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 5]

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[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
A. Narrative (Continued)

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 19, 1942 (Continued)

1425 Observation of freighters showed them to be heading 220° and
     195° respectively at 8000 yards. Went to 90 feet and increased
     to 4.5 knots.
1430 Two depth charges - well distant.
1438 Heard screws bearing 295°.5 and ordered 63 feet.
1439 Slowed to 2.5 knots and
1442 Observed DD to bear 284° T, course 335°, range 1800 yards,
     lying to with "AA" MG batteries manned, and all his people
     looking up, or to shoreward. He looked too good so I turned
     left at full speed to give him straight bow attack.
1445 Slowed to 1/3 speed and steadied on 265°.
144625 Observed DD for firing but he had kicked ahead, range now
     2800, angle on bow starboard and large. Came back to 337° and
     continued for APs.
1449 Two more depth charges, well distant.
1506 Closest AP bearing 314°, heading 194°, distance 3400 yards;
     northernmost one on same heading with port gangway down. Both
     anchor chains up and down. Ship now experiencing set and drift
     of about 1/2 knot with us. Rigged in sound head and pit log on
     account of lack of water.
1508 Increased to 6 knots.
1511 Five depth charges, closer.
1512 Five more depth charges, still closer.
1515 Came left to head for freighter and at
1524 Slowed to 1/3.
1536 observed leading freighter on bearing 288.5 T, angle on bow
     85° P, heading 194°, range 2300. Northern freighter just
     astern on approximately same heading, anchor chains straight up
     and down; 1 DD crossing between me and them at dead slow speed.
     Tubes 1 and 2 had been ready for firing at DD at 1445 and ship
     had gone to 90 feet with these doors open during the two depth
     charge barrages. So decided to give first freighter Nos. 1
     and 3, second freighter Nos. 2 and 4.
153650 Commenced firing and at
153728 Completed firing attacks. Observed smoke from first two fired
     pass to left, i.e., ahead, of southernmost freighter. Could
     not see wakes themselves. Water is much riled up, considerable
     debris floating. Sound reported all four to be running normal-
     ly (listening on hull spots). Observed DD speed up and turn
     left to head for me. I did not watch for the second two wakes
     but came right at standard speed with full rudder and ordered
     90 feet. Considerable uncertainty as to just how much water
     there is here. Beach looked very close. Came to 155° T.
1542 Slowed to 1/3 and at 1543 two strings of three each were dropped
     just forward of starboard beam fairly close. If I had made
     full speed from the firing point they would have had us. The
     conning tower was doing a dance by the time I got out of it.
     There followed 18 minutes of heavy depth charging. There is no
     accurate count of number, but I think there were about 43.
     The charges were dropped so close together that counting was
     impossible. I went to 110 feet as soon as DR showed us we had

[HANDWRITTEN: H 6]

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CSECRET
A. Narrative (Continued)
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 19, 1942 (Continued)

that much water and some to spare (Bottom is hard in this
locality); and with accumulation of bilge water and encountering
a fresh water stream we sank slowly to 170 feet, which was
probably a good thing as they gave the impression of going off
over us. My face was stung with flying cork and paint chips,
my ears were deafened and my eyes were kept busy watching the
gauges and manifolds dance. On one blast the overhead appeared
to come in 6 inches. This ship is strong. At no time was
depth control lost in the wrong direction. Bow planes went out
once and main motor relays blew and had to be reset. Conning
tower door operating mechanism backed off enough to allow door
to show open. Battery ventilation exhaust sprang a leak. No
serious damage. Behaviour of officers and men uniformly excellent.
Employed high speed evasion tactics and periods of silent running.
1618 Ordered 63 feet. Observed 3 DD followed by 1 AP followed by 4th
DD under way and standing out towards north entrance LOMBOK
STRAIT at about 10 knots. Nothing in SANUR RD. One AP missing,
remaining one, which is standing out, appears to be down by stern
and listing to starboard. DD just forward of AP is firing broad-
side towards me (and TAFEL HOEK). No possibility further approach
work account excessive range, large target angle and low battery.
Stood out STRAIT to southward.
1939 Observed moon to be bright so changed to head for it, direction
of BENOA 280°.
1943 Surfaced and proceeded at 10 knots.
1955 Commenced charge; gravity 1.130.
2009 Moon in clouds, c/c to 180°.
2015 Flash of light bearing 301° T. (BADUNG STRAIT).
2049 c/c to 090° to patrol east-west line 5 miles south of NUSA BESAR.
2109 Reversed course.
2139 Moonset.
2155 On decoding CSAF serial 2 (received at 2113) c/c to 135° to open
out as directed. About
2300 sighted searchlights and flashes of gunfire at southern entrance
BADUNG STRAIT.
2301 OOD went to Battle Stations and stood by to dive when searchlight
illuminated ship.
2304 Secured from Battle Stations. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 111.0.

February 20, 1942 (Southern Approaches LOMBOK STRAIT; BADUNG & LOMBOK
STRAITS)

Firing BADUN STRAIT continued until about 0250.
0155 Reversed course to close straits by daylight.
0245 Completed charge.
0518 Dived in southern approach BADUNG STRAIT and decided to penetrate
again, circling NUSA BESAR due to absence of S-37 from strait.
Maintained periscope patrol almost all day at 2/3 speed (4.5 kts)
except during observations. Currents are swift, erratic; tide
rips and whirl pools make this strait a very difficult place in
which to steer a submerged submarine or to control its depth.
[HANDWRITTEN: H 7]

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[STAMP: CONSECRET]
                                                              U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. Narrative (Continued)

February 20, 1942 (Continued)

          On one occasion observed ship to swing to starboard with left
          full rudder, requiring standard speed to straighten her out.
0903 Observed an airplane crashing and aviator "bailed out" on NUSA
          BESAR, hitting very hard.
0905 Sighted airplane flying low.
1249 Completed examination BENOA and SANUR; fires in BENOA, nothing in
          SANUR.
1320 Observed a current of 3.8 knots, setting 245° towards BENOA.
1323 4 men in life jackets on a raft (two paddling) went by rapidly
          in direction of BENOA. Nationality undetermined.
1928 Surfaced about 3 miles north of NUSA BESAR and proceeded at 12
          knots to southern approaches, leaving NUSA BESAR about 3 miles
          to starboard.
1938 Commenced charge.
2142 Commenced east-west patrol of line 5 miles south of NUSA BESAR,
          of which extremities are 6 miles from LOMBOK and TAFEL HOEK
          respectively. Unable to run awash due to violent tide rips
          threatening to poop the ship. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 163.3.

February 21, 1942 (Southern Approaches LOMBOK & BADUNG STRAITS)

0530 Dived and patrolled intermittently at 120 feet and 63 feet,
          depending on surface conditions of water.
1931 Surfaced and patrolled east and west across southern approaches.
          . Mileage by r.p.m. for day 147.3.

February 22, 1942 (BADUNG STRAIT & Southern Approaches BADUNG & LOMBOK
                                                              STRAITS

0530 Dived and patrolled southern approaches BADUNG.
1235 Proceeded into BADUNG STRAIT in order to ascertain if any more
          landing attempts were being made.
1800 Having definitely established absence of shipping in Strait,
          stood out to southward.
1931 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots to clear strait and patrol
          across southern approaches. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 156.1.

February 23, 1942 (BADUNG STRAIT & Southern Approaches BADUNG & LOMBOK
                                                              STRAITS

0138 Sighted what might have been searchlight or flare on TAFEL HOEK.
          Heavy rain.
0229 Flash of searchlight bearing 295° (our course west). Increased
          to 15 knots and at
0312 C/c to 305°.
0325 Changed to north in order get good fix on NUSA BESAR.
0337 C/c to 310° and at
0340 Slowed to 12 knots, visibility decreasing.
0404 Heavy rain setting in again, stood off and on until 0458, when
          again stood in for location of light.

[HANDWRITTEN: H8]

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[FADED] CONFIDENTIAL
A. Narrative (Continued) U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 23, 1942 (Continued)

0538 Dived and at
0600 Commenced periscope patrol.
0657 Definitely established absence of shipping BADUNG STRAIT and
     stood out to southeast. At this time saw CATALINA bombor bearing
     030°, course southeast.
0715 Sighted 8 monoplanes over SANUR, course south, in formations of
     four at about 5000 feet. Two more of same type at 2000 feet,
     course east, same locality.
0749 In direction of BENOA one single engine monoplane, circling.
0847 Two low-winged monoplanes over BENOA circling to right as if in
     preparation for landing.
0915 Two planes appear to be landing over SANUR.
0917 Planes look like FORTRESSES; came in from north; circled and
     returned.
0935 Plane landing north of BENOA.
1042 Sighted periscope bearing 069° T, about 2 points on port quarter.
     Turned to left 20° and got turn count (78 r.p.m.) but periscope
     and sound disappeared.
1130 Having cleared Strait patrolled southern approaches to eastward.
1929 Surfaced and continued patrol of southern approaches to westward
     and eastward, keeping moon about dead ahead or dead astern.
     Mileage by r.p.m. for day 159.7.

February 24, 1942 (Southern Approaches LOMBOK & BADUNG STRAITS; BADUNG
                                                             STRAIT)

0032 Moonset.
0539 Dived in southern approach LOMBOK and proceeded towards entrance
     BADUNG in order to penetrate that strait before possible arrival
     of force reported by CSAF serial 26, as having left MAKASSAR
     headed south at 10 hours GCT on 23rd. Surface is calm; radio
     broadcast on preceding night stated JAPS have landing field on
     BALI; so proceeded at 120 feet except for hourly observations.
1655 Observed 3 monoplanes circling over SANUR. Appear to have dropped
     some bombs.
1757 Two bombers landed near KUTA.
1940 Surfaced in narrowest portion BADUNG STRAIT and stood out to
     southwest, speed 12.
1955 Commenced charge.
2040 Passed small banca, darkened, on course BENOA-NUSA BESAR.
2135 Patrolling across southern approaches. Mileage by r.p.m. for
     day 160.1.

February 25, 1942 (Southern Approaches and LOMBOK - BADUNG STRAITS)

0030 Completed charge.
0054 Commenced entry BADUNG STRAIT, assuming area to be vacant, and
     desiring to be on hand for estimated time arrival of force
     reported by SALMON 241330 and CSAF 241402.
0115 Moonset.
0144 Flooded down.

[HANDWRITTEN: H9]

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[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: SECRET]
A. Narrative (Continued)

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 25, 1942 (Continued)

Steering various courses at various speeds to investigate flashes
of light (which were all on islands) and to listen.
0500 In narrowest portion BADUNG STRAIT with LEMBONGAN Light bearing
  160°, 3.8 miles. Sighted smoke bearing 074° and ordered course
  076°. Went to Battle Stations. At this time the above mentioned
  light was turned on followed by two other steady white lights of
  equal intensity, at same altitude; all three were showing all
  around. Lights also began to show all over BALI.
0502 Believing myself on starboard bow of DD whose smoke we had seen,
  ordered 071°. At about this time sighted two more ship outlines
  to left of first one, all giving me small target angle. Sound
  reported pinging all over dial on both bows.
0505 Realizing I was well to north of middle of channel ordered course
  090° at 10 knots.
0507 DD bearing 073°.
0508 Increased to 12 knots.
0508 Dived to 90 feet and c/c to 073° to penetrate screen and develop
  targets.
0510 Ordered left full rudder to come to course for straight bow or
  stern attacks on entering ships.
0515 Steadied on 340° at 2.5 knots. During next 10 minutes sound
  picked up high speed screws of 4 ships from 074° T. to 132° T.
  (all still east of me); one set of low speed screws at 035° T.
0523 Ordered 60 feet and at
0525 Observed DD with searchlight trained on me but with shutters
  closed; his bearing 091° T, angle on bow very small.
052710 Sound reported low speed screws 346°.5 T. and at 052735
  bearing 330° T.
052845 Observed AP similar to SINSYU MARU (Booth, 1940, No. 11) bearing
  070°.8 T, course 266°, angle on bow 15° port, range 3000 yards
  (excessive range observation). Ordered course 356° for 90° port
  track.
053130 Observed ship to bear 069°.7 T; angle on bow 30° port, course
  276°, range 500 and realized that there was not enough range for
  torpedo to arm (250 yards to track) and that I was only working
  in to a near collision so came left with full rudder and full
  speed to opposite course, having observed that a number of ships
  were following this one and realizing the opportunity for stern
  tube attack.
053650 Slowed to 4.5 knots, steadied on 176°.
053740 Slowed to 2.5 knots.
053910 Observed ship similar to one which I first approached, bearing
  276° on course 151° at 1000 yards, but on same sweep at 054030
  found much larger ship similar to SADO MARU (Booth, 1940, No. 34)
  bearing 043° T, course 293°, range 750 and decided to shoot him.
  At 054320 attacked with tubes 5, 6, and 7 aimed at bow, stern,
  and forward goal post. Watched one torpedo hit just forward of
  bridge, throwing up a sheet of water to top of bridge. Felt a
  distinct thud with the deck moving out from under me. Motor
  Room and After Torpedo Room personnel reported 2 explosions.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 10]

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[STAMP: SECRET]
U.S.S...SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)

February 25, 1942 (Continued)

There is not enough of a bang out of these fish to suit me.
Sound reported pinging on us from port side. Ordered left full;
ahead full and 90 feet, in meantime observing a tanker bearing
019° T. on course 259° at about 1500 yards. Decided to return
to northerly course to work on stuff astern of first target, with
bow tubes.
055045 Ordered 63 feet and 1/3 speed and at
0555 Observed CL or DD bearing 022° T. on course 243°, 1500 yards.
Heavy tripod mast construction aft led me to believe that ship
was CL. Study of pictures afterwards leads me to belief that
ship was SIGURE DD. Ordered course 334° for 90° port ship track.
055845 Made final observation, bearing 319°.8 T, course 230°, range
500 yards, angle on bow 90° port.
055905 Commenced firing tubes 1, 2 and 3. Saw none of these torpedoes
running but believe this due to insufficient periscope exposure.
Sound reported "two of those hit something." At about this time
a series of explosions to starboard which I took for depth
charges so abandoned conning tower and went to depth charge
quarters. My last impression of DD was that his stern was coming
out of water. I was very sharp on his quarter by this time. I
also heard and felt one good bang on the port bow about 2 minutes
after firing, as I was leaving the conning tower. There were a
number of ships down in this direction - to right of the DD and
to the left of her. (I noticed in the radio broadcasts of the
following evening that an allied plane observing had given us
credit for sinking 4 ships including 1 warship). I think we most
probably sank two; possibly three and that a bare possibility
exists of there being four ships sunk by the six torpedoes fired.
There followed a pretty bad four and one half hours. Every time
we would start a pump to get down the bilge water, or run up a
periscope to take a look, or start the hydraulic plant to hold
out the sound head, a DD would start for us. They were more
sparing of charges than were the gang on the 19th but the charges
appeared to be heavier and deeper and more accurately dropped.
A larger firing interval of 5-6 seconds was used. No serious
damage was done except that at 200 feet the battery ventilation
exhaust is leaking a stream the full diameter of the drain pipe.
(It was about 3 pencil thicknesses before). The gyro setting
motor in Forward Torpedo Room was flooded by bilge water. I had
two DDs out in the
eastern approaches with us and the sea was flat calm. I watched
one of them sight my feather once at 4 miles and turn and head
for me. (This DD had about 10 lookouts standing on top of the
conning tower) Three times they passed right overhead without
cans dropping. The record shows only 21 charges were dropped
but I think there were at least 30.
1101 Secured from depth charge quarters and stood out LOMBOK STRAIT
to clear contact report. Broadcast report on vertical antenna at
1600, 1700, and 1800.
1921 Surfaced and obtained receipt for same from SURABAYA. Cleared
area to southeast to charge battery and effect repair to battery
[HANDWRITTEN: 1-4-11]

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[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
A. Narrative (Continued) U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 25, 1942 (Continued)

ventilation system. I also did not want to get caught in the
Straits by an Allied Striking Force as I almost was caught on
the 19th.
1937 Commenced charge.
2329 Reversed course to northwestward, lying to and stemming current
while repairing battery ventilation system. Found leak in drain
line connection to forward section and repaired same with wicking.
A drop per minute) Mileage by r.p.m. for day 141.2.

February 26, 1942 (Southern Approaches LOMBOK; and BADUNG STRAIT)

0130 Completed charge.
0159 Completed repairs to battery ventilation system and set course to
head for expected JAP anchorage (CSAF serial 36 extending this
vessel's area to northward to embrace locality where our attacks
of 19th and 25th had been made was received at 2334). Speed 15
knots.
0512 Dived about 10 miles south of NUSA BESAR and steered to enter
BADUNG STRAIT. Running at 120 feet with hourly observations.
1002 Smoke on TAFEL HOEK, bearing 266° T.
1102 Sixteen large bombers flying fairly low bombing the airport region
of BENOA.
1258 Three heavy bombers, four motors, bearing 012° T, 1000 feet high,
turning towards us.
1403 Sighted one 2 or 4 motor monoplane over BENOA about 1000 feet
high, heading this way.
1513 Completed examination of BADUNG STRAIT, ship being about mid-chan-
nel, due west of north tangent NUSA BESAR. There is no shipping
at anchor here. Either JAPS finished job and got out, or gave up
and got out, or proceeded around to south-west coast of BALI or
on to westward. Stood out to southward.
1931 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
1937 Commenced charge. Running with moon astern.
2022 C/C to west patrol on west-east line south of straits.
2043 Sighted ship bearing 310° T. and headed for it.
2046 Shifted to batter, estimated range 9000 yards, ship is standing
is not pinging. shelf back of TAFEL HOEK from southwest. Ship
2106 Sighted similar ship bearing 306° heading in same direction at
about same distance. At 2111 this ship turned away and put us
astern making high speed to northwestward. Other ship has drawn
right to 326° and is heading to northeastward. They looked to
be motor torpedo boats, subs, or small destroyers and did not
ping. Decided that they might be part of another allied striking
force and in view of low state of battery charge (1.160) and
possible enforced submergence well out of my assigned area did not
pursue the subject further but withdrew to southeastward and east.
To close these people further I would have had to go northwest
with moon on my starboard beam. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 159.0.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 12]

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[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: CONCRET]
A. Narrative (Continued)
                                                                U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 25, 1942 (Continued)

     ventilation system. I also did not want to get caught in the
     Straits by an Allied Striking Force as I almost was caught on
     the 19th.
1937 Commenced charge.
2329 Reversed course to northwestward, lying to and stemming current
     while repairing battery ventilation system. Found leak in drain
     line connection to forward section and repaired same with wicking,
     white lead, tape and marlin. (At 120 feet next day only about
     a drop per minute) Mileage by r.p.m. for day 141.2.

February 26, 1942 (Southern Approaches LOMBOK; and BADUNG STRAIT)

0130 Completed charge.
0159 Completed repairs to battery ventilation system and set course to
     head for expected JAP anchorage (CSAF serial 36 extending this
     vessel's area to northward to embrace locality where our attacks
     of 19th and 25th had been made was received at 2334).
     Speed 15 knots.
0512 Dived about 10 miles south of NUSA BESAR and steered to enter
     BADUNG STRAIT. Running at 120 feet with hourly observations.
1002 Smoke on TAFEL HOEK, bearing 266° T.
1102 Sixteen large bombers flying fairly low bombing the airport region
     of BENOA.
1258 Three heavy bombers, four motors, bearing 012° T, 1000 feet high,
     turning towards us.
1403 Sighted one 2 or 4 motor monoplane over BENOA about 1000 feet
     high, heading this way.
1513 Completed examination of BADUNG STRAIT, ship being about mid-chan-
     nel, due west of north tangent NUSA BESAR. There is no shipping
     at anchor here. Either JAPS finished job and got out, gave up
     and got out, or proceeded around to south-west coast of BALI or

1931 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
1937 Commenced charge. Running with moon astern.
2022 C/c to west to patrol on west-east line south of straits.
2043 Sighted ship bearing 310° T. and headed for it.
2046 Shifted to batteries, estimated range 9000 yards, ship is standing
     over towards BALI shelf back of TAFEL HOEK from south-west. Ship
     is not pinging.
2106 Sighted similar ship bearing 306° heading in same direction at
     about same distance. At 2111 this ship turned away and put us
     astern making high speed to northeastward. Other ship has drawn
     right to 326.5° and is heading to northeastward. They looked to
     be motor torpedo boats, subs, or small destroyers and did not
     ping. Decided that they might be part of another Allied striking
     force and in view of low state of battery charge (1.160) and
     possible enforced submergence well out of my assigned area did not
     pursue the subject further but withdrew to southeastward and east.
     To close these people further I would have had to go northwest
     with moon on my starboard beam. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 159.0.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 12]

— page 87 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
A. Narrative (Continued)
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 27, 1942 (LOMBOK & BADUNG STRAITS and Southern Approaches
    thereto)

0145 Completed charge and at
0148 Headed north for LOMBOK STRAIT.
0316 On decoding SALMON 261810 reporting 3 CL and 3 DD heading for
    LOMBOK STRAIT increased speed to 18 knots, expecting to intercept
    enemy northeast of NUSA BESAR at about 0500. (It appeared that
    my hunch of the night before about not bothering with the small
    ships we saw south and west of TAFEL HOEK was correct. Bucked a
    5-knot southerly current all the way in.
0436 Went to Battle Stations.
0510 Slowed to 10 knots and flooded down.
0527 Dived in LOMBOK STRAIT about 8 miles northeast of NUSA BESAR.
0605 Secured from Battle Stations. Steered so as to retain this
    position commanding entrances to both straits until 1127 when
    I decided to run out BADUNG STRAIT with the current. The JAPS
    must have gone somewhere else.
1930 Surfaced and commenced patrol of southern approaches at 11 knots.
1940 Commenced charge.
2115 Sighted ship on southwesterly course at high speed, in bright
    moonlight at about 6 miles bearing 100° T. Headed for him and at
    2117 dived, going to Battle Stations. Turn count 252 r.p.m.
    Target not visible in periscopes. Bearing drew to right rapidly
    and faded out at 2143 on about 136° T. Believed to be SHEARFISH
    making about 16 knots.
2143 Secured from Battle Stations.
2145 Surfaced and resumed patrol and charge.
2337 C/c to north to head in to LOMBOK STRAIT, keeping close to LOMBOK
    Shore. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 158.1.

February 28, 1942 (Southern Approaches and LOMBOK STRAIT)

0200 Completed charge.
0345 Moonset.
0525 Dived about 5 miles south of northern boundary in middle of LOMBOK
    STRAIT and steered so as to command both northern entrances all
    day.
1932 Surfaced about 7 miles north east of NUSA BESAR and headed in and
    out of moon while charging, working up to northern limit of area.
    Mileage by r.p.m. for day 151.0.

March 1, 1942 (LOMBOK & BADUNG STRAITS; En route TJILATJAP.)

0015 Completed charge.
0438 Moonset.
0523 Dived in northern entrance LOMBOK STRAIT and proceeded south and
    west to transit BADUNG STRAIT.
1429 Struck stream of colder water west of NUSAR BESAR (76° F - a drop
    of 8°) and almost lost control. Held ship by flooding 10,000 lbs.
    into NEGATIVE tank; gradually pumping this out as ship got into
    warmer water (Back to 83°.5 F. at 1800).

[HANDWRITTEN: H 13]

— page 88 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
U.S.S. 'SEAWOLF'
A. Narrative [HANDWRITTEN: (Continued)]
(Continued)

March 1, 1942 (Continued)

1445 Two large planes over SANUR, flying low, heavy fires on TAFEL
     HOEK on eastern side.
1546 One plane bearing 283° T. flying low over BENOA.
1931 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots, running back and forth in
     direction of moon.
1940 Commenced charge.
2116 On decoding CSAP serial 58 (received at 2036) c/c to 285° T. and
     increased to 15 knots.
2214 Increased to 17 knots, proceeding towards TJILATJAP. Mileage
     by r.p.m. for day 161.2.

March 2, 1942 (En route area west of TJILATJAP)

0022 On parallel of 9° S; set course 270° T.
0030 Completed charge.
0514 Dived.
1935 Surfaced, proceeded at 15 knots.
2000 Started battery charge.
2104 c/c to 288°.
2112 Sighted port side light and mast head light of a ship, hull down,
     range 7-8 miles, bearing 215°, changing rapidly to left. Decided
     not to investigate this ship for the following reasons: (1) Bright
     moonlight on my port side as I closed would have necessitated my
     submergence before I could get close aboard. (2) Probability of
     ship being hospital ship or a neutral.(3) Investigation would neces-
     sitate my losing considerable time, as the direction of pursuit
     would have been away from my assigned area and I believed that I
     might be wanted in TJILATJAP very soon account evacuation of person-
     nel or resistance to JAP bombardment. (4) If ship were JAP he
     might have submarine accompanying him with the idea of luring me
     close aboard in the moonlight.
2145 Ship out of sight bearing 140° T.
2248 Increased to 17 knots. Mileage for day by r.p.m. 195.2.

March 3, 1942 (En route area west of TJILATJAP (south of JAVA Coast)).

0100 Completed charge.
0540 Dived.
1935 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
2000 In assigned area.
1945 Commenced charge.
2300 c/c to 270°.
2400 Completed charge. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 182.7.

March 4, 1942 (Area west of TJILATJAP)

     Patrolling west and east on line 15 miles south of TJILATJAP,
     keeping to westward of TJILATJAP meridian; patrol speed 12,
     length of line 45 miles.
0526 Dived.
1941 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 14]

— page 89 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. Narrative (Continued)

March 4, 1942 (Continued)

1950 Commenced charge. Large fires burned all night vicinity
     TJILATJAP. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 150.6.

March 5, 1942 (Area west of TJILATJAP)

0045 Secured charge.
0537 Dived. Maintained deep patrol with hourly observations except
     during afternoon watch when there were sufficient white caps to
     permit periscope patrol. Sea generally characterized by long
     deep swell with flat surface. Large fires still burning
     TJILATJAP. Ship rolling 6° to a side at 63 feet.
1946 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
2000 Commenced charge. Mileage for day by r.p.m. 152.2.

March 6, 1942 (Area west of TJILATJAP)

0030 Completed charge. Numerous rain squalls on mid-watch.
0527 Dived. Deep patrol all day with hourly observations account
     condition of surface. Fires (TJILATJAP) still burning.
1942 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
1955 Commenced charge.
2151 Moonrise.
2400 Completed charge. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 153.3.

March 7, 1942 (Area west of TJILATJAP)

0530 Dived. Deep patrol all day with hourly observations, account
     condition of sea.
1942 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
2000 Commenced charge. Fires still burning TJILATJAP area.
2243 Moonrise. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 149.6.

March 8, 1942 (Area west of TJILATJAP and en route SUNDA STRAIT)

0015 Completed charge. Rain squalls on mid-watch.
0526 Dived and ran deep patrol with hourly observations; except
     during afternoon watch/surface chop picked up enough to permit
     periscope patrol. when
1941 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
1955 Commenced charge.
2050 On receipt of CSAF serial 66 ordering change of station, in-
     creased speed to 15 knots and set course 270°.
2125 Sighted light bearing 328° and headed for it.
2132 Secured charge.
2137 Battle Stations. Proceeded at various speeds listening at
     intervals.
2227 Definitely determined light source to be on shore. Secured from
     Battle Stations and resumed charge.
2248 Set course 270°.
2325 Increased to 17 knots. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 157.6.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 15]

— page 90 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)

March 9, 1942 (En route Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0115 Completed charge.
0346 C/c to 302°.
0523 Dived and ran deep patrol with hourly periscope observations.
1941 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots in rain.
2010 Commenced charge.
2210 Sighted FIRST POINT Light (JAVA Head) bearing 005° T. Decided
     to spend first 24 hours in immediate vicinity of a point bearing
     259°, 8.5 miles distant from FIRST POINT Light in order to
     command continually all routes SUNDA STRAIT to and from South
     JAVA and all AUSTRALIAN Ports. Arrived this vicinity about 2400.
     Mileage by r.p.m. for day 175.4.

March 10, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0100 Completed charge.
0115 Moonrise.
0529 Dived and maintained deep patrol until 1100, with hourly
     observations. White caps developing, spent remainder of day
     at 63 feet.
1950 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots, after completing an examina-
     tion of KASUARIS Bay.
2010 Stopped and charged batteries, lying to maintaining listening
     patrol. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 106.3.

March 11, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT).

0057 Proceeded at 12 knots to round PRINCES IS. and take station in
     GREAT CHANNEL.
0100 Completed charge.
0207 Moonrise.
0536 Dived to 120 feet and at
0632 Commenced patrol at 63 feet. There have been many gas explosions
     in air and lightning displays during mid and morning watches,
     in vicinity of KRAKATAU IS. One lookout and the Officer of the
     Deck got ashes in their eyes. Patrolling a spot about the
     middle of GREAT CHANNEL in 60 fathoms of water.
1100 Definitely established the eruptions to be coming from the new
     island between VERLATEN and LANG Islands (page 94, corr. after
     line 9, H.O. No. 126). Discharge consists chiefly of white
     smoke billowing up in great volume, occasionally streaked with
     black. Rain squalls in afternoon watch.
1417 Sea flattening, commenced deep patrol with hourly observations.
     Sound conditions only fair, high noise level all around.
1953 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots to clear GREAT CHANNEL and
     resume former station. The gas explosions and lightning in the
     vicinity of the volcano make a station in the Strait very bad
     at night. The illumination serves to blind the lookouts and
     silhouette the ship.
2010 Started charge.
2400 Arrived off JAVA Head. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 141.4.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 16]

— page 91 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: SECRET]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)

March 12, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT and AUSTRALIA-SUNDA
traffic lane.)

0015 Completed charge. Rain squalls in mid-watch.
0242 Moonrise. JAVA HEAD light still burns continually.
0542 Dived and maintained deep patrol with hourly observations until
1100. Ran periscope patrol until 1622 when resumed deep patrol
until 1953.
1953 Surfaced and proceeded on course 158° at 15 knots to pull clear
as directed in order to report on area. Opened on course 158°
in order to stay in Australian traffic lane.
2020 Commenced charge.
2245 Increased to 17 knots.
2347 Heavy rain, slowed to 10 knots.
2355 Resumed 17 knots. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 162.7.

March 13, 1942 (AUSTRALIA-SUNDA traffic lane and Southern Approaches
SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge.
0100 Commenced calling NPO with our 121700 to CSWP to give results
SUNDA STRAIT patrol.
0118 Completed transmission and reversed course in order regain
station off Southern Approaches.
0310 Moonrise.
0536 Dived to 120 feet. Flat seas kept us deep most of day; hourly
periscope observations. Discovered No. 4 main engine lubrica-
ting oil cooler to be leaking salt water to oil side.
1949 Surfaced and proceeded at 6 knots. Used No. 1 auxiliary on
propulsion; Nos. 1 and 2 mains to charge until No. 4 coolers
could be replaced. Headed for VLAKKEHOEK in order to give that
locality some investigation.
2117 Cut in No. 1 main engine on the screws and proceeded at 12 knots.
CSAP serial 72 directing VLAKKE HOEK-FIRST POINT patrol received
at 2035. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 168.8

March 14, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge.
0146 VLAKKE HOEK Light not burning. Abeam by DR. Reversed course
to 140° T.
0611 Dived to 65 feet.
0733 Commenced deep patrol with hourly observations. Discovered No.
2 main engine lubricating oil cooler to be leaking salt water
to oil side. A few white caps permitted periscope patrol from
1525 to 1604.
2002 Surfaced; proceeded at 6 knots on No. 2 auxiliary, course 320° T.
2030 Commenced charge.
2138 Increased to 12 knots.
2242 Lookout reported a flash of light bearing about 120° T. C/c to
120° T; secured charge; increased to 15 knots. At this time
decoded CSAP serial No. 73 mentioning Axis ships coming in from
south for TJILATJAP or SUNDA. Visibility excellent, starlit sky;
[HANDWRITTEN: 7-17]

— page 92 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: A. NARRATIVE (continued)]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

March 14, 1942 (Continued)

could see a ship 5-6 miles.
2325 Unable to again sight light; decided it must have been/lightning
either
or the loom of FIRST POINT Light on a cloud. Resumed battery
charge; reduced speed to 12 and reversed course to get back on
patrol line. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 145.8.

March 15, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0003 Set course 320° T.
0130 Completed battery charge.
0247 VLAKKE HOEK abeam to starboard (by DR), reversed course to
140° T.
0523 Bubble octant sights at 0423 showing a set and drift of 261°
and 1.7 knots for preceding 8 hours, c/c to 110° T.
0602 Dived and commenced deep patrol with hourly observations.
1506 Surface of sea sufficiently disturbed to permit 90-foot patrol
with half-hourly observations. Overcast with intermittent rains.
1952 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
2015 Started charge.
2044 Reversed course to 320° T. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 152.8.

March 16, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0100 Completed charge.
0238 Reversed course to 140° T. Some rain on mid-watch.
0612 Dived to 63 feet.
0706 Commenced deep patrol with half hourly or hourly observations.
1235 Sighted 2-masted schooner, distant 2 miles, bearing 190° T, his
course 054, speed 1 knot, standing up for STRAIT.
1400 Resumed periscope patrol.
1517 Reversed course to 320° T.
1955 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
2015 Commenced charge.
2029 Rain squalls slowed to 10 knots.
2035 Resumed 12 knots. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 155.5.

March 17, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0030 Completed charge.
0046 VLAKKE HOEK abeam to starboard, reversed course to 140° T.
Intermittent rains.
0540 Struck log on port side.
0549 FIRST POINT abeam to port; reversed course to 320° T.
0603 Dived to 63 feet.
0705 Commenced deep patrol with periodic observations. Much rain,
poor visibility.
1626 Resumed periscope patrol.
1954 Surfaced and proceeded at 12 knots.
2010 Commenced charge.
2300 Reversed course to 140° T. Miles by r.p.m. for day 156.3.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 18]

— page 93 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
A. Narrative (Continued)

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

March 18, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge.
0118 Slowed to 6 knots, securing main engine to conserve fuel; making
     battery water on No. 1 auxiliary. Rains on mid watch.
0621 Dived to 63 feet.
0729 Set course 320° T.
0913 Commenced deep patrol.
1014 Salt water reported in After Battery Room. Pulled After Battery
     clear of load. 2 to 3 inches on deck forward half of room(includ-
     ing hatch to tank). Cleared deck of water and after about an
     hour of ripping out lockers, clothes, provisions, etc., found leak
     in riser to Trim line hose connection in Galley Store Room. Some
     water leaked in to battery tank around through bolt for dog on
     hatch; but only hit cell tops. No heavy ground; no chlorine.
     Considerable rain in forenoon watch.
1530 Resumed periscope patrol.
1956 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
2020 Commenced charge.
2400 Reversed course to 140° T. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 131.8.

March 19, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0030 Completed charge.
0623 Dived. Periscope patrol until 1110; then deep patrol until 1329.
1852 Salt water in forward battery room. Found leaking section trim
     line in clothes locker in after stateroom and applied customary
     soft patch. Small amount of water leaked through deck in to tank.
2000 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
2100 Moonset. Mileage 155.3

March 20, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge. Rain on mid-watch.
0614 Dived. Periscope patrol all day.
1954 Surfaced and proceeded at 10 knots.
2005 Started charge.
2145 Moonset. Mileage 156.2.

March 21, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge. Showers on mid-watch. Violent squall between
     0340 and 0507.
0620 Dived. Heavy seas and rain kept ship at deep submergence except
     for periscope observations until 1123 when periscope patrol was
     resumed.
1400 Again compelled to resume deep patrol.
1953 Surfaced in heavy head sea and gradually worked up to 9 knots.
2010 Commenced charge.
2245 Increased to 11 knots. Mileage 143.9.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 19]

— page 94 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)

March 22, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge.
0628 Dived. Maintained periscope patrol until 1719; sea flattening
     went to 90 feet with half-hourly observations.
1950 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
2005 Started charge.
2312 Moonset. Mileage 156.2.

March 23, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge.
0611 Dived to 120 feet.
0637 Commenced periscope patrol.
1031 Resumed deep patrol.
1624 Resumed periscope patrol.
1954 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
2005 Commenced charge.
2359 Moonset. Mileage 153.4.

March 24, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge. Rainy in mid and morning watches.
0618 Dived. Ran periscope patrol all day.
1949 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
2010 Commenced charge. Mileage for day 154.2.

[HANDWRITTEN: See following page for insert (March 26)]
March 25, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0030 Moonset.
0115 Completed charge. Showers on mid watch.
0618 Dived and commenced periscope patrol. Maintained periscope patrol
     all day.
1947 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
2000 Commenced charge. Mileage 155.2.

March 27, 1942 (Southern APPROACHES SUNDA STRAIT and en route CHRISTMAS
                                                              ISLAND)
0045 Completed charge.
0222 Moonset.
0609 Dived and ran periscope patrol all day.
1954 Surfaced and proceeded at 11 knots.
2023 On decoding CSWP 270815 c/c to 170° and increased speed to 14.5
     knots. Mileage for day 162.7.

March 28, 1942 En route to and at CHRISTMAS ISLAND)

0045 Completed charge. Rain in mid watch.
0614 Dived and ran at periscope depth.
1926 Surfaced and proceeded at 14 knots.
1950 Commenced charge.
2400 Sighted CHRISTMAS IS. on starboard bow, distant 25 miles.
     Mileage for day 190.0.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 20]

— page 95 —
CONFIDENTIAL
[STAMP: SECRET]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF .

A. Narrative (continued)

March 26, 1942 (Southern Approaches SUNDA STRAIT)

0045 Completed charge.
0128 Moonset.
0616 Dived. Ran periscope patrol all day.
1948 Surfaced; proceeded at 11 knots.
2005 Commenced charge. Mileage 153.0.

Note: This is insert between March 25 and March 27.
[HANDWRITTEN: H 21]

— page 96 —
[STAMP: COSECRET]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
                                                                U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)

March 29, 1942 (CHRISTMAS ISLAND)

0032 Commenced steering various courses to round island to starboard at
     8 miles. Sky is overcast but moon is providing excellent visibility.
0100 Completed charge.
0354 Moonset.
0618 Dived off Northwest Point and ran periscope patrol, at 4.5 knots
     (except when periscope is up) in order to examine island for likely
     landing spots.
1006 Sighted ship sunk in FLYING FISH COVE, stern out of water (yellow
     stack, grey hull, spar colored or yellow cargo handling booms, of
     about 3000 tons). Approached to within 3 miles. Ship is on reef
     in 10° 26' S, 105° 41'.5 E. No other shipping in cove. No activity
     apparent in settlement or on dock.
1945 Surfaced off SOUTHEAST POINT and proceeded at 11 knots; rounding
     island at 8 miles, in bright moonlight.
2000 Started charge. Mileage for day 198.7.

March 30, 1942 (CHRISTMAS ISLAND)

0230 Completed charge.
0447 Moonset.
0611 Dived north of FLYING FISH COVE and proceeded to round island to
     port at 3 miles in order examine for likely landing places.
1415 Sighted large seaplane flying SW over NORTHWEST POINT, altitude
     1500 feet.
1533 Sighted black buoy bearing 309°.5 T, distant 1 mile. Cage (but no
     bell).
1950 Surfaced in moonlight and proceeded at 12 knots, towards FLYING
     FISH COVE; giving land an 8 mile berth. I have now decided that
     cove is only practicable place for landing attempt. Other possi-
     bilities are impractical due to deep water close to shore, cliffs
     and rocks, wooded banks, heavy swells and small landing areas.
2000 Started charge. Mileage 151.9.

March 31, 1942 (CHRISTMAS ISLAND)

     Maintaining a patrol 124° - 304° on line 11 miles long of which
     center bears 034°, 6.5 miles from FLYING FISH COVE in order to
     command approaches from either LOMBOK or SUNDA STRAITS. Light
     rain squalls; but for most part good moonlight.
0529 Moonset.
0600 In center of patrol line, stopped and headed for cove on 215°.
     Secured engines and lying to, listening. It has become dark in west
     due to clouds.
0603 Sound reported pinging to port.
0610 Searchlight fully illuminated the ship from 1-1/2 points abaft
     starboard beam. (At this time sound reported that pinging previous-
     ly reported was on starboard side). Went ahead full, dived, and
     turned with full rudder to 290° to close the formation as they are
     apparently coming in from SUNDA. Pinging all over dial. Ran at
     various speeds. Realized that ship which picked us up was leading
     port screen so came left again to close the Cove on 215°.

                                                                [HANDWRITTEN: H 22]

— page 97 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. Narrative (Continued)

March 31, 1942 (CHRISTMAS ISLAND) (Continued)

062212 Screws 300° T.
062315 304° T.
062320 DD at 3000 yards heading for us on course 132°. Commenced evasion
         tactics, holding base course 215°.
062730 2 depth charges. Ordered 200 feet, using NEGATIVE Tank.
0629 An attack of 10 charges. Came right again to 290° T.
0630 Screws bearing 080 T.
0631 Screws 132° T.
0632 Steady on 290°. DDs bearing 154° and 124° T.
0632 Screws on 201° T.
0635 At 200 feet. Screws bearing 214° T.
0636 Pinger on 265° T.
0643 All ahead standard speed. 120 feet.
0647 All ahead one-third.
0650 All ahead two-thirds.
0652 Ordered 63 feet.
0653 Low speed screws 350° T.
0655 Slowed to one-third.
0702 1 DD bearing 081°.5 T, course 161°, 6000 yards, angle on bow 75° port.
070230 1 AP bearing 315° T, 8000 yards, angle on bow 75° port.
070235 1 AP bearing 308° T, 8000 yards, 90° port.
070330 CL bearing 257° T, 7000 yards, 15° port.
070400 Another CL bearing 212° T, 8000 yards, 115° starboard.
0705 Left full rudder, all ahead full to head for cruiser bearing 257°.
         These birds are all just milling about except the APs are headed
         for the cove and are too far to west of me for me to get at them.
0710 At one-third speed heard high speed screws bearing 240° T. and at
071040 found myself ahead of column of cruisers 4000 yards. Came right
         full at full speed to take a 90° ship track for stern tubes.
071230 Slowed to one-third speed.
071330 Stopped. Sound bearing 184°.
071350 All ahead one-third.
071425 Cruisers got by; after one bears 159°, angle on bow 135° port,
         1300 yards.
071620 When on course 350 sighted AP bearing 286°, 6700 yards, 60° port.
071725 Left full to 198°, full speed in order to try for transport.
072025 All ahead one-third.
072140 Screws bearing 098°.6 T.
072305 All ahead one-third.
072355 AP bearing 269°, 5500 yards, 70° port. It doesn't look like we
         can get him.
072515 one NATORI proceeding to the northwest, the other to the north-
         east. These boys were running back and forth across the harbor
         entrance.
072605 JINTSU type CL which appears to be flagship (searchlight flicking
         in all directions and first to break flag hoists) and which has
         been "lone wolfing" it around among the others bore 228°, 4600
         yards, 30 port.
072630 Left full, ahead standard to 168° for a 90° track.
0728 Steady on 168°.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 23]

— page 98 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
A. Narrative (Continued)
March 31, 1942 (Continued)

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

072850 Increased to full in order to close track more rapidly.
072940 Came left to normal approach 138° (120° track) to close track
         more effectively and hold back the bearing.
073210 Stopped.
073300 JINTSU has turned away, bearing 207° T, 6000 yards, 130° star-
         board. Went ahead standard and came right to 178° to head for
         the cove and at the same time close the shipping.
074145 Slowed to one-third. Observed that 2 ASASIO DDs are operating
         to east and north east with one NATORI and 2 MINEKAZES are opera-
         ting to west and northwest with other NATORI, 4 ships pinging at
         once; none closer than 3000 yards; JINTSU patrolling back and
         forth normal to harbor entrance at about 15 knots. Surface of
         water is nicely rumpled, with occasional whitecaps. I am most
         thankful for this 1.314 periscope.
074345 Leading AP 223° T.
074544 Second AP bearing 242° T, 4900 yards, 90° port.
074610 Increased to 6 knots.
075110 Slowed to 2.5 knots.
075232 One explosion quite distant. Two seaplanes flying over cove at
         about 1500 feet.
075350 One AP bearing 219°.5, 4700 yards, 105° port.
075440 JINTSU bearing 168° T, 4400 yards, 135° port.
075605 Increased to 6 knots and went to 120 feet in order to close cove
         more rapidly.
075715 One explosion.
080925 All ahead one-third, 63 feet.
081340 JINTSU 189°.1, 70° port, 2500 yards. Left full rudder, all ahead
         full to normal approach course to decrease the range.
081630 Steady on 100° T, slowed to one-third.
081845 JINTSU bearing 194°, 4700 yards, 130° starboard. He turned away
         again.
081935 Right full, all ahead two-thirds, 120 feet. Course 190° T to
         further close the cove and the shipping. Sound tracking JINTSU
         which slowly drew right to 230° T.
082645 Ordered 63 feet. All ahead one-third.
083015 JINTSU bears 229° T, 9400 yards, angle on bow 140°, starboard.
         2 APs are now in the harbor with 1 MINEKAZE approaching the dock.
         2 planes southeast of us, heading northeast.
083615 JINTSU bearing 237° T, 7200 yards, 22° port.
083645 All ahead two-thirds, 120 feet.
083930 Ordered 63 feet.
084155 Slowed to one-third.
084340 JINTSU bearing 228°, 3150 yards, 35° port, speed 16.5. Clipper
         bow with striking CHRYSANTHEMUM or RISING SUN figure head.
084415 Left full rudder, all ahead two-thirds, for course 175° (98 ship
         track).
084613 All ahead one-third.
084655 Steady on course.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 24]

— page 99 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENT]
[STAMP: SECRET]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. Narrative (Continued)
March 31, 1942 (Continued)

084710 Sound bearing 214° T.
084725 Final observation prior to firing: 206°.6 T, 60° port, 1400 yards,
speed 15.
084815 Commenced firing. Fired 4 fish. See Section G.
084915 Completed firing. Observed men to be running and shouting on
cruiser quarterdeck and measured range as 700 yards. I am still
forward of CL beam and he is turning towards me. I can see smoke
from torpedo tracks drifting across field of vision.
084945 Ordered 120 feet, right full rudder, all ahead full.
085015 One explosion.
0853 A series of explosions sounding like about 8 depth charges with
much water swishing noise, close aboard. Ordered 200 feet, using
NEGATIVE. Couldn't open flood valve against the sea pressure;
shifted to hand power and put a pressure in the tank; got it open;
blew the gasket. We're going to have one helluva time.
0855 Steady on 270°, all ahead two-thirds.
0856 Screws on starboard beam, making high speed; all ahead one-third.
0858 5 depth charges well distant.
0859 7 depth charges astern. Sound reports a rapid series of 35 or 40
faint explosions which we do not hear. There follows 7-1/2 hours
of pinging, listening, high speed screws and depth charges to a
total of 25 charges. Every time a pump runs they come in on us.
As we try to come up negative blows out water (still about 2 tons
in it); as we go down it takes more aboard. Desire to fill it
completely but to do that must get 5 tons of ballast out of the
ship. Main motor control went out on first attack; blocked in the
overload relay with a piece of wood and caught the ship at 270 feet.
This was the worst pounding ship has had but there wasn't much of
it. Another engine lube oil cooler sprung a leak (this is the ninth
this trip) and salt water is slowly filling the engine sumps due to
leaky overboard circulating water valves. Two gyro repeaters went
out; radio transmitter went haywire; valve wheels flew around the
engine rooms. The engine blower casings did the "Tokio Trot,"
the depth gauge needles whipped 16 feet. The lower conning tower
hatch won't hold water (cable stuffing tubes in the conning tower
leaking badly); starboard stern tube leaks more than it should.
Every body turned to and carried bilge water to sanitary tanks to
keep electrical machinery from being damaged. Ship retired to
north and west.
1310 The trim line in the Forward Torpedo Room burst in three places.
(The maximum stress it has been subjected to this morning was a 29"
vacuum). Am endeavouring to pump water out of the ship to permit
me to gradually fill NEGATIVE Tank, so we can get the ship under
sufficient control to get up to see the picture. We pump until
somebody starts for us; then we stop. Trim pump makes an awful
racket, due to air-binding and high discharge pressure. Drain
pump is not much better. Inaugurated a scheme whereby we used
the torpedo room bilges as trimming tanks pumping water out of
them with drain pump and drain line. Also instructed Torpedo Rooms
in blowing (and flooding) the trim tanks to (or from) sea using
[HANDWRITTEN: H 25]

— page 100 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)

March 31, 1942 (Continued)

a torpedo tube drain and a torpedo tube vent. This system
worked all right until the next night when it almost cost us
the ship. My instruction was not sufficiently thorough. A
crew should be drilled in this operation as a damage control
feature (in shallow water but at considerable depth).
1410 ship in trim, NEGATIVE full. Pinging ahead and astern.
1411 At 63 feet observed CL and 1 DD broad on port quarter on westerly
course about 4000 yards. Sea flat; went right back down to 120
feet. At 1615, having heard nothing since 1509 came to 63 feet
and found no JAPS, a long flat swell, rain in the west and a
rain squall or smoke over FLYING FISH COVE. Maintained deep
patrol with hourly observations for remainder of day. One torpedo
remaining forward but it has an air leak amounting to 500#/day
(which had increased progressively until February 26, at which
time I had ordered the flask bled down) and I do not desire to
put it in a tube. It would be a sure "bubbler" with outer doors
open. Nor would it be safe to put in tube for night firing; In
case the line should suddenly rupture the tube might suffer
considerable damage. We have five torpedoes remaining aft which
are in good shape, we think.
1949 Surfaced. Found the deck shelter light burning. Another lesson
learned. Immediately "de-fused" all topside lighting "for the
duration." Proceeded at 12 knots, running away from moon;
putting in "quick charge."
2121 Having cleared all transmission on contact report, c/c to 077°T.
to head for moon and work around to northward of island,
crossing SUNDA STRAIT route in anticipation of possible moonlight
attack on enemy. Decided to obtain a position 10 miles east of
CHRISTMAS by 0500 so as to approach it in the moon's shadow and
dive just behind NORTHEAST POINT about 0600 for a look around
in the Cove. Noticed that ship's bell was broken and sitting
down on deck.
2222 Lookout reported two torpedo tracks. OOD turned away and dived
the ship (They were from abaft the beam). Sound was not able
to pick up any noise source and OOD was not sure they had been
actual tracks. I had observed similar phenomena the night
before in this general area; definite streaks of refuse material
probably washed off the island by the spring tide and drifting
to the northwest in the prevailing current.
2232 Surfaced, proceeded at 14 knots. Resumed charge.
2326 Received CSAF 98's congratulatory message. It helped a lot.
We were feeling pretty well beaten down, so we put it on the
Bulletin Board. Mileage for day 162.9.

April 1, 1942 (CHRISTMAS ISLAND)

Steering so as to round CHRISTMAS to starboard at 10 miles, while
proceeding to a point 10 miles east of NORTHEAST POINT.
0151 (I had just got to sleep) OOD sighted ship bearing 220° T,
slowed to 5 knots and headed for him. In 16-power telescope
made out upper silhouette of ASASIO DD at about 10 miles.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 26]

— page 101 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

A. Narrative (Continued)

April 1, 1942 (Continued)

Stopped and watched him turn away.
0215 Starboard shed two-thirds, left full rudder to 060° to run
away from him. Increased to 14 knots. This DD is patrolling
off NORTHWEST POINT. Modified my plan to circle round island
at 15 miles (instead of 10 miles) before heading towards moon
and island.
0234 Put moon astern, steering 100° T.
0300 Sighted ship bearing 214° T, patrolling off NORTHEAST POINT.
Silhouette is sufficiently large to be cruiser. Secured charge.
Came left to put him astern and modified plan, to provide for
diving about 20 miles east of NORTHEAST POINT and take an after-
noon attack on enemy.
0313 C/C to 040°.
0335 Sighted silhouette on 060° T. and came left to 283° T. Ship
sighted is slowly circling. At 0400 it appeared that he was
heading towards us so submerged and came right to 335° for stern
tube attack in case he came on. (All torpedoes available are in
After Torpedo Room). He appeared to grow no closer so at 0419
came right to head for him on 080° T.
[HANDWRITTEN: X] 043200 Made out target as NATORI cruiser, range 6000, bearing 098° T,
course 255.0. Came right to 190° to close the track, using
standard speed on outboard screw for turns in order to save the
battery.
043750 Target bore 109° T, course 255.0, range 3000 yards.
043850 Came right at full speed to 345° to bring stern tubes to bear
on 90° ship track.
044330 Steadied on course and at
[HANDWRITTEN: X] 044400 made pre-firing observation; bearing 151.2 T., course 261°,
range 1900 yards.
[HANDWRITTEN: X] 044643 Commenced firing tubes 5, 6, and 7 (Tube 8 is set for circular
run).
[HANDWRITTEN: X] 044735 One violent explosion. Watched the target. No flames. Moon
is obscured and observation becoming more difficult.
044845 Left full rudder to 230° T. in order close the target which
now bears 171° T. with large starboard angle on bow.
[HANDWRITTEN: X] 045352 Target now bears 178° T. smoking heavily, large port
angle on bow.
[HANDWRITTEN: X] 045400 Target disappearing from sight on same bearing; increased to
4.5 knots. Feel positive he is sinking.
045515 Sound reported high speed screws approaching on 185° T. Can't
see anything.
045735 High speed screws on 161° T, nothing in sight.
045846 Sighted ship bearing 185°.5 T; course 335°.5, 6000 yards.
This is other NATORI which has come out from NORTHEAST POINT.
050400 NATORI now bears 215° T, range 1500, course 325°. Sound
estimates 30 knots. Have completed reload on Tube 7 but other
remaining torpedo in Tube 8 is giving us trouble with angle
setter (I had ordered circular run device removed and on account
[HANDWRITTEN: 1127]

— page 102 —
CSECRET
CONFIDENTIAL
A. Narrative (continued)
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

April 1, 1942 (Continued)

of frozen securing nut the torpedo had to be partially withdrawn
in order to get a wrench on it). After attempting to engage
gyro spindle it had to again be withdrawn and gyro pot rechecked
on zero, as spindle would not re-engage.
050705 NATORI bearing 296° T, course 026°, range 1500. I am losing an
attack waiting on Tube 3, due to my own lack of foresight.
Target zigging at high speed. No sense in shooting without
spread.
0510 4 depth charges, not too close. Went to 150 feet.
0520 Screws all over the dial.
0526 Three ships pinging, well distant. Came back to periscope depth.
0531 Ship disappearing at a range of about 7000; bearing 251° T. on
an easterly course; large port angle on bow. Came right to head
for his bearing and at the same time close the island.
0546 Secured from Battle Stations.
0555 Morning twilight commencing.
0623 c/c to 200° to close the island.
0634 Moonset. There followed a day full of contacts and attempted
approaches, the crew being at Battle Stations from 0825 until
attack on JINTSU was completed at 1703; after which we were on
depth charge alert until midnight. NATORI, JINTSU and 4 DDs
worked our side of the island in early forenoon. NATORI put
up his plane at 0953. As we would close on one of them for attack,
they would move somewhere else. It was most maddening. JINTSU
was first observed at 0956 (at 13000 yards) with his catapult
empty. Sea was barely ruffled but it freshened in afternoon
except in Cove which remained flat. We kept working towards
Cove as that seemed to be the center from which they worked out
and in. My approach periscope fogged up (for the first time)
and I had to use the control room stick to get any look where
range was involved. As sea freshened the rascals worked over to
the northwest into the lee of the island. JINTSU and MINEKAZES
disappeared for several hours. I never got close aboard any of
them (minimum range record 3000 yards) until the actual approach
on this follow when he and MINEKAZES came back to north of cove
from northwestward; as I was closing in trying to get an attack
off on remaining NATORI who was making signals and running around
the transports in the cove with an occasional sweep out in our
direction. Transports got up steam during afternoon and were
headed in the same direction apparently intending departure;
just as we began our approach on JINTSU at 1630. Both planes
are back on catapults at 1639. At 1630 JINTSU bearing 266°.1 T,
10° starboard, course 076°.1, range 12000. It appears that all
are joining up for a sweep to the northeast, remaining NATORI
and 2 transports still in cove; this is my 3rd observation of
JINTSU type cruiser today and I have not been closer to him than
10000 yards. It did not occur to me that it was not the same CL

[HANDWRITTEN: H 28]

— page 103 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[HANDWRITTEN: CONFIDENTIAL]
[HANDWRITTEN: DECLASSIFIED]
[HANDWRITTEN: NARRATIVE]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. Narrative (continued)

April 1, 1942 (Continued)

as yesterday. DDs are taking a rectangular formation ahead of
and around JINTSU, well spread out; 2 ASASHIOS to starboard of
him, 2 MINEKAZES to port. All are pinging.
1634 JINTSU zigged away and put me on his port bow.
164115 JINTSU bearing 269°.7 T, 20° port, course 109°.8, 8000 yards.
to close the track prior to swinging stern tubes
into him.
165445 Bearing 267° T, 10° starboard, course 077°, 4500 yards. He
has zigged back. This is where he made his mistake.
165935 Bearing 259° T, 45° starboard, course 070°, 2200 yards.
170135 Bearing 312°, 45° starboard, course 086°, 1300 yards.
170240 Fired tube 7.
170246 Fired tube 8.
170255 Right full rudder, all ahead full, 200 feet.
170325 One violent explosion followed by 3 depth charges at 1705
and a series of minor explosions as we stood out to westward.
For detailed discussion of remaining period see section on A/S
Measures. Sound did not hear this fellow's propellers again and
I feel sure we got him. See Attack Section for details. Judging
by rapidity with which NATORI sank this morning I do not think
these CLs can take much. In retrospect, I do not believe this
was the same CL as we fired on yesterday for the following
reasons:
(1) At no time during approach did I comment on the figurehead
which yesterday's JINTSU possessed; nor did it ever come to my
observation. On the day preceding, this figurehead distracted
me at every observation.
(2) When periscope went up for firing observation I had the
feeling there was something vastly different about the bow.
(3) At one stage in the proceedings yesterday I inventoried 10
ships, calling 3 of them APs. I now believe that one of these
latter was a JINTSU which was well to westward of formation and
went down the westward side of the island.
(4) Under the most adverse errors I can justify in the firing
set-up for March 31, the 2nd and 4th torpedoes should have hit
the target 63 feet forward of stern and mainmast, respectively;
1st and 3rd passing ahead. There is much contention that there
were two explosions. I only heard one.
(5) There were only 6 observations made on this ship the entire
day, including the firing observation.
(6) Remaining NATORI appeared to be acting as flag on April 1.
(7) Differences in construction found in JANE's 1939 edition
(see Attack Section).
(8) On all three cruiser attacks Sound has reported the target
screws stopping.
Ship withdrew to westward. At 1900, believed we had lost the
enemy so ordered 63 feet. Last depth charge had been at 1801.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 29]

— page 104 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
A. Narrative (Continued)

April 1, 1942 (Continued)

1920 Ship broached. Diving Officer had ordered 1500 lbs. blown from
     Forward Trim (Trim line is hors de combat). Torpedo Room had
     opened master tube drain valve in preparation to blow and when
     quick opening individual tube drain was opened 15000 pounds of
     water was rushed out of torpedo tube door. Master tube drain
     valve should be opened last and process controlled with this
     valve, a small opening only being used. By use of speed and angle
     we got the ship back to 80 feet by 1933 but at 1933 the party
     was on again. They stayed with us and 13 charges were dropped
     between 1933 and 2135. With ship at 200 feet these did not
     greatly bother us. Gravity is now 1150 and hydrogen reading 1.4%
     in tops of battery rooms; 94° F. in control room; 6-1/2 inches
     air pressure in boat. Ship is most uncomfortable. My course
     (315°) is putting distance between island and us at maximum rate.
     Judging by the rudder in use we are in a very strongly setting
     northeasterly current.
2159 Disconnected noisy counter gear from port shaft.
2208 63 feet. Pinging continues but no ships in sight. Mileage for
     day 99.4.

April 2, 1942 (Departing from CHRISTMAS ISLAND)

0028 Enemy still pinging (1 ship on starboard quarter) but can't see
     him. Surfaced and went ahead full on everything except the
     engine which is salted. Gravity 1.130.
0040 Started quick charge, c/c to 300° T, slowed to 13 kts. Gradually
     worked around to westward out of sight of the island, steadying
     on 180° at 0605.
0545 Secured charge.
0613 Dived.
1954 Surfaced. Moonrise.
2007 C/c to 140° T.
2010 Started charge, proceeding at 14 knots.
2217 Increased to 17 knots. Mileage 180.6.

April 3, 1942 (En route FREEMANTLE)

0115 Completed charge.
0612 Dived.
1937 Surfaced and proceeded at 14 knots.
1955 Started charge.
2200 Increased to 17 knots. Mileage 204.1

April 4, 1942 (En route FREEMANTLE)

0125 C/c to 158°.
0130 Completed charge. Decided to run on surface entire trip unless
     forced down, account trim line condition.
1849 Sunset.
2112 Moonrise. Mileage 396.0.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 30]

— page 105 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Administrative (Continued)
April 5, 1942 (En route FREMANTLE)

A peaceful EASTER Sunday. Steaks for dinner which have been aboard since
early December (from Philippine Cold Storage).
2145 Moonrise. Mileage 396.0.

April 6, 1942 (En route FREMANTLE)

0026 In bombing restricted area, c/c to 172° T.
0643 Sunrise.
1142 c/c to 143° T.
1828 Sunset.
2025 c/c to 146° T.
2222 Moonrise. Mileage 396.5.

April 7, 1942 (En route FREMANTLE)

0037 c/c to 153° T.
0049 Sighted ROTTEN NEST ISLAND Light bearing 120° T.
0151 - 0519 Steering various courses at various speeds standing in to anchorage.
0519 Anchored in Gage Roads, Australia.

[SIGNATURE: F. B. WARDER]
F. B. WARDER,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy,
Commanding.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 31]

— page 106 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
B. Weather
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 15, 1942 wind SSW, force 4. Barometer 29.93. Temperature
82° F; cloudy; cumulus clouds moving from SW; visibility 15; sea SW4.

February 16, 1942 Commenced with Wind SW, force 3 and ended with
Wind W, force 4. Baro. 29.92 to 29.98. Temp. 82° F to 81° F. Cloudy
and overcast; cumulus clouds from SW and W, 70 to 100%; Seas SW5 to W4.

February 17, 1942 Commenced with Wind NW3, baro. 29.95, temp. 81° F,
overcast, cumulo-nimbus clouds from NW over entire sky, raining, sea
NW5. Ended with winds SW2, baro. 30.04, temp. 81° F, cloudy, cumulus
clouds from SW 90%; clearing, seas SW2.

February 18, 1942 Commenced with Winds SW3, temp. 80° F, overcast
and rainy, nimbus clouds moving from SW (10); visibility 0.5 to 15;
seas SW 4. Ended with wind SE2, temp. 82° F, blue sky with detached
clouds of cumulus form, visibility 15, sea SE2. Baro. 30.04.

February 19, 1942 Commenced with winds from NE1, baro. 29.98,
temp. 81°, blue sky, detached clouds moving from NE, 30%; visibility
30, sea NE1. Rapidly becoming overcast and misty. At 0200 visibility
1000 yards. In morning watch heavy rains and low visibility; clearing
in afternoon with much muddy water running out of rivers into BADUNG
STRAIT. Ended with winds from SW, force 1, baro. 30.03, temp. 82° F,
blue sky, visibility 15.

February 20, 1942 Commenced with winds from SW2, barometer 30.06,
blue sky with detached cumulus clouds moving from SW, visibility 25,
sea SW 2. Ended with wind N1, baro. 30.05, temp. 81° F, blue sky
with detached cumulus clouds moving from north, sea W2, visibility 10.

February 21, 1942 Winds NE to E to SW, force 1; baro. 30.04, temp.
81° F; blue sky with detached cumulus clouds, generally fair with good
visibility.

February 22, 1942 Winds SW1, baro. 30.04 to 30.02, clouds and rain
in midwatch, good visibility in daylight.

February 23, 1942 Winds SE1 to SW1, baro. 30.00 rising. Clouds,
mist and rain in mid and morning watches; clear during daylight and
becoming overcast in evening watch.

February 24, 1942 Commenced with wind from N, force 1, baro. 30.03,
temp. 82° F, cloudy (cumulus and cumulo-nimbus, 60 to 90%) visibility
4 to 10, sea 2S. Ended with breezes from north, baro. 30.06, temp.
83° F, clear with 10% alto cumulus.

February 25, 1942 Commenced with light airs from south, visibility
1000 to 10,000 yards; 30 to 70% cumulus nimbus clouds. Ended with
fresh breezes from southeast, cloudy and sea SE2. Flat calm during
morning and forenoon watches.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 32]

— page 107 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
B. Weather (Continued)

February 26, 1942 Commenced with light airs from south, clearing.
Ended with fresh southeasterly breeze, clear, seas heavy, swell from
SE.

February 27, 1942 Commenced with light breezes from east, blue
sky, detached clouds, becoming overcast. Ending with gentle breezes
from ESE, cloudy, heavy swells from SE.

February 28, 1942 Commenced with wind SW2, cloudy, visibility 20
to 8, heavy swells from SW. Ended with wind ESE3, clear.

March 1, 1942 Commenced with wind S1, clear; ending with winds
ENE4 hauling to NE2, clear, with moderate swells from SW.

March 2, 1942 Winds SE1 to E2; barometer 30.00; generally cloudy
with heavy swells from SE.

March 3, 1942 Winds E2 to ESE3; clear but becoming overcast and
rainy with heavy swells from south.

March 4, 1942 Winds SE1 to SE2, cloudy or overcast and rainy.
Heavy swells from SE.

March 5, 1942 Winds SE2, cloudy with skies covered with cumulus
and cumulo-nimbus clouds 60 to 90%. Heavy swells from SE.

March 6, 1942 Winds NE3 to SE4, commencing overcast and rainy,
gradually clearing. Moderate to heavy swells from southward.

March 7, 1942 Winds SE3 and 4. Cloudy with passing showers and
lightning in evening watch. Heavy swells from SE.

March 8, 1942 Commenced with light breezes from SE; cloudy, over-
cast and rainy. Ended with clear sky, detached cumulus clouds.
Heavy swells from SE.

March 9, 1942 Winds SE3 to E4; cloudy, overcast, occasional rains.
Seas SE4 to E2.

March 10, 1942 Wind E to NE force 2. Overcast or cloudy; seas
E to NE condition 2.

March 11, 1942 Winds NE2 to SE1 to E2, many cumulus clouds; seas NE2
to SE2.

March 12, 1942 Winds SE2 to NNE4; commenced and ended rainy and over-
cast; visibility fair to poor. Seas flat with moderate swells from
SE and NE.

March 13, 1942 Winds SE2, dying down. Freshened in evening watch to
light breezes from NE. Commenced overcast and rainy, ended with
cumulus clouds 20 to 50%; visibility poor on midwatch, clearing in
afternoon; fair on evening watch.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 33]

— page 108 —
[STAMP: UNCLASSIFIED]
B. Weather (Continued)
U.S.S: SEAWOLF

March 14, 1942 Wind NE1 to E1 to ENE4; blue sky detached clouds
but occasionally with squalls of small area, cumulus clouds 30-20%;
visibility very good; slight sea with heavy swells from eastward.

March 15, 1942 Overcast with intermittent rain squalls obscuring
30 to 70% of sky. Light easterly breezes with cumulus clouds during
daylight. Moderate sea and swell from east moderating.

March 16, 1942 Light breezes from northern quadrants; overcast,
occasionally rainy, many cumulo-nimbus clouds; visibility limited;
moderate swells from east and north-east.

March 17, 1942 Westerly and northwesterly breezes, cloudy or over-
cast, some showers, moderate swells from west and northwest.

March 18, 1942 Light to gentle northwesterly breezes, intermittently
clear and cloudy with heavy swells, moderate sea from northwest.

March 19, 1942 Light to gentle northwesterly breezes, mostly over-
cast, visibility good to poor, moderate swells with moderate sea from
northwest.

March 20, 1942 Gentle to moderate breezes from west and northwest.
Overcast and rainy, or cloudy all day; visibility fair; moderate
swells from west and northwest.

March 21, 1942 Commenced with gentle to fresh breezes from northwesterly
rainy, overcast, many nimbus clouds, cloudy but clearing. Ended with
light breezes in the west southwest; cloudy but clearing. Seas 4
moderate swell and sea from southwest, increasing.

March 22, 1942 Light to gentle southwesterly breezes, clearing and
clear with detached cumulus clouds, ended cloudy with 30% alto
moderate swells and sea from west and southwest.

March 23, 1942 Light westerly and southwesterly breezes; mostly clear
with detached cumulus clouds, ended cloudy with 30% alto
moderate swells and sea from west and southwest.

March 24, 1942 Light to moderate westerly and northwesterly breezes
with rain in mid and morning watches; moderate swells and sea from
west and northwest.

March 25, 1942 Gentle to moderate westerly breezes, mostly cloudy,
commenced and ended overcast, cloudy during day; rather rough seas
from west.

March 26, 1942 Light to gentle breezes from west and northwest;
rough seas from west, moderating.

March 27, 1942 Light to moderate breezes from west and northwest;
heavy swells, moderate sea; mostly cloudy.

March 28, 1942 Light to moderate breezes from west and northwest;
cloudy or overcast and rainy; visibility erratic; heavy
swells in a moderate sea.

— page 109 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
B. Weather (Continued)

March 14, 1942 Winds NE1 to E1 to ENE4; blue sky detached clouds
but occasional rain squalls of small area, cumulus clouds 30-20%;
visibility very good; slight sea with heavy swells from eastward.

March 15, 1942 Light easterly breezes with cumulus clouds obscuring
30 to 70% of sky. Overcast with intermittent rain squalls during
daylight. Moderate sea and swell from east, moderating.

March 16, 1942 Light breezes from northern quadrants; overcast,
occasionally rainy, many cumulo-nimbus clouds; visibility limited;
moderate swells from east and north-east.

March 17, 1942 Westerly and northwesterly breezes, cloudy or over-
cast, some showers, moderate swells from west and northwest.

March 18, 1942 Light to gentle northwesterly breeze, intermittently
clear and cloudy with heavy swells, moderate sea from northwest.

March 19, 1942 Light to gentle northwesterly breezes, mostly over-
cast, visibility good to poor, moderate swells with moderate sea from
northwest.

March 20, 1942 Gentle to moderate breezes from west and northwest.
Overcast and rainy, or cloudy all day; visibility fair; moderate
swells from west and northwest.

March 21, 1942 Commenced with gentle to fresh breezes from northwest,
rainy, overcast, many nimbus clouds, poor visibility. Ended with
light breezes in the west southwest; cloudy but clearing. Seas 4 & 5 NW.

March 22, 1942 Light to gentle southwesterly breeze, clearing slowly;
moderate swell and sea from southwest, increasing.

March 23, 1942 Light westerly and southwesterly breezes; commenced
clear with detached cumulus clouds, ended cloudy with 80% alto cumulus
moderate swells and sea from west and southwest.

March 24, 1942 Light to moderate westerly breezes; mostly cloudy
with rain in mid and morning watches; moderate swells and sea from
west and northwest.

March 25, 1942 Gentle to moderate westerly and northwesterly breezes;
commenced and ended overcast, cloudy during day; rather rough seas
from west.

March 26, 1942 Light to gentle westerly breezes, mostly cloudy;
rough seas from west, moderating.

March 27, 1942 Light to gentle breezes from west and northwest;
heavy swells, moderate sea; mostly cloudy.

March 28, 1942 Light to moderate breezes from west and northwest;
cloudy or overcast and rainy; visibility erratic; heavy westerly
swells in a moderate sea.
[HANDWRITTEN: 14]

— page 110 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
B. Weather (Continued)
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

March 29, 1942 Gentle westerly breeze, diminishing. Overcast but
clearing.

March 30, 1942 Light breezes from west, then south.
Visibility good. Seas heavy swell, from west, moderately cloudy but

March 31, 1942 Light airs from south, freshening. Commenced
clear sky with few detached cumulus clouds. Ended with moderate
nimbus clouds. Heavy southerly swells, calm sea. Cumulo-

April 1, 1942 Light southerly breezes; heavy swells, calm sea.
Cumulus clouds 50-70%. Visibility excellent.

April 2, 1942 Light breezes from west and south, cloudy; moderate
swell and sea from west, changing to south-east.

April 3, 1942 Light breezes from south, freshening to moderate
breezes from south-east and east. Commenced overcast; ended cloudy.

April 4, 1942 Commenced with gentle easterly breezes, cloudy;
Heavy swells, moderate sea from east. Visibility excellent.

April 5-7, 1942 Bucked wind and sea en route Freemantle. Both decreased
in force about 1 knot.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 35]

— page 111 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

B. Weather (Continued)

March 29, 1942 Gentle westerly breeze, diminishing. Overcast but
clearing.

March 30, 1942 Light breezes from west, then south. Cloudy but
visibility good. Seas heavy swell, from west, moderating.

March 31, 1942 Light airs from south, freshening. Commenced with
clear sky with few detached cumulus clouds. Ended with many cumulo-
nimbus clouds. Heavy southerly swells, calm sea.

April 1, 1942 Light southerly breezes; heavy swells, calm sea.
Cumulus clouds 50-70%. Visibility excellent.

April 2, 1942 Light breezes from west and south, cloudy; moderate
swell and sea from west, changing to south-east.

April 3, 1942 Light breezes from south, freshening to moderate
breezes from south-east and east. Commenced overcast; ended cloudy.

April 4, 1942 Commenced with gentle easterly breezes, cloudy;
heavy swells, moderate sea from east. Visibility excellent.

April 5-7, 1942 Bucked wind and sea en route Fremantle. Both decreas-
ed in force about 1 knot.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 35]

— page 112 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
C. Tidal Information

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

On arrival southern approaches LOMBOK STRAIT on February 18,
1942, it was appreciated that the currents were violent and the
information thereon very meagre and not accurate; and that the odds
were heavy that our torpedo firing would have to be done inside the
straits. Accordingly, it was decided to take every advantage of
opportunity to study the currents; during the absences of S-37 and
S-38 from their stations in the straits, when contact reports and
information messages indicated we should go inside, and when our
area was extended to embrace the inside area.

The results of that study are forwarded herewith as Enclosure
(D) and contain information which should be of value to the Hydro-
graphic Office, or to a submarine subsequently ordered to patrol this
area.

The only information contained in H.O. No. 163 which is
accurate on this subject is contained in the 3rd and 4th paragraphs
of p. 175, having to do with heavy tide rips and whirling eddies.
On three occasions I had to go ahead at standard speed (6 kts.) with
full rudder to hold the ship to a course submerged; until the local
disturbance was cleared.

In general, the following can be stated for the period under
observation:

(1) At no time was a north-going current found in LOMBOK STRAIT.
(Ship spent all of February 28 and first half of March 1 in LOMBOK
proper, went through the strait on five other occasions, and patrol-
led across the southern entrance on eight occasions). Southerly
currents as strong as 5 knots were found in the southern portions
between LOMBOK and NUSA BESAR. These do not appear in the enclosure
as navigation was being done at night under conditions of poor
visibility.

(2) Currents in BADUNG STRAIT were generally south and west at all
stages of tide although there are north-going counter currents south
and west of NUSA BESAR and to that side of the channel. And at
certain stages of the flood, currents with small northerly components
were evident elsewhere.

(3) Except in certain limited areas (as off the channel between
NUSA BESAR and CHENINGAN) it is our experience that the currents are
generally weaker in BADUNG than in LOMBOK STRAIT.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 36]

— page 113 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[HANDWRITTEN: NARA]
[HANDWRITTEN: 12/12/00]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

D. Navigational Aids

March 20, 1942: 2210 Sighted FIRST POINT LIGHT burning with tabula-
ted characteristics in proper location. This light remained burning
through March 27, when patrol of this area was discontinued.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 37]

— page 114 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
Description of craft sighted

February 19, 1942: 0240 (Zone -8) One DD between NUSA BESAR and BALI,
broad on my port beam at 500 to 1500 yards, heading about south-east,
speed low. Pinging on us.
0604 One ASASHIO DD between NUSA BESAR and BALI,
bearing 129° T; 10000 yards, circling at low speed.
0654 A cruiser or DD at southern entrance BADUNG
STRAIT in rain; bearing about south; course southwesterly, speed unknown.
0905 One ASASHIO DD off SANUR ROADS, circling at
low speed in large circle; bearing 016° T; 14000 yards.
1007 Similar DD, course north, bearing 277°; 11000
yards; between NUSA BESAR and BENOA.
1350 One Freighter-Transport similar to AKAGI MARU
and one similar to KINAI MARU, south of TG. GEELING in SANUR ROAD, BADUNG
STRAIT. At anchor.
1417 Total of 4 ASASHIO DDs (including those reported
above) milling about at various speeds keeping a protective patrol
around APs reported above, two to northeastward, one to northward and
one to northwestward.

February 25, 1942: 0500 to 1100 (Zone -8) 4 DD of SIGURE type, 1
tanker, 1 large AP similar to SADO MARU, 2 APs similar to SINSYU MARU.
At least one other not identified. Various courses and speeds in
BADUNG STRAIT north of NUSA BESAR. Attacked as described in A and G.

February 26, 1942: 2043 2 small unidentified ships in moonlight (MTBs,
SSs or DDs) about 8 miles SW of TAFEL HOEK, course NE. One turned and
headed away from us at high speed on course NW; other stood on to NE.

February 27, 1942: 2115 Unidentified ship believed to be submarine
(probably SPEARFISH) about 21 miles south of NUSA BESAR, course SW,
speed high (252 rpm); in bright moonlight at about 6 miles.

March 29, 1942: FLYING FISH COVE merchantman of about 3000 tons; stern
out of water, forecastle under water. Yellow stack, grey hull, yellow
cargo handling booms.

March 31, 1942: Off FLYING FISH COVE between 0610 and 0849 one CL
(JINTSU type with sharply flaring clipper bow and CHRYSANTHEMUM or
FLAMING SUN figure head); two CLs (NATORI type. Catapults empty on all
three. 2 ASASHIO DDs, 2 MINEKAZE DDs, 2 APs. Record shows that one
other AP was observed but I can find no identification for it and only
2 CLs and 1 MINEKAZE DD went into cove during period of observation. I
now believe this extra ship was another JINTSU type CL which went
around western side of island. Goal posts and cargo handling features
on APs have been rotated in order to render difficult a determination
of target angle. Consider silhouette book excellent on NATORIs and
JINTSU.

April 1, 1942: In waters adjacent to CHRISTMAS ISLAND all the ships
reported above except that I am convinced that JINTSU sighted on this
date was not JINTSU attacked on March 31. See remarks under Section G,
Attacks.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 38]

— page 115 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[CROSSED OUT TEXT: CONFIDENTIAL]
F. Aircraft sighted
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 19, 1942: 0724 In BADUNG STRAIT large 4 engine plane,
course west, 2000 feet at 5000 yards. Dark brown in color.

February 20, 1942: 0903 One plane crashing on NUSA BESAR with
aviator "bailing out" in parachute. He hit hard.
0905 Airplane flying low over BADUNG STRAIT.

February 23, 1942: 0715 Eight monoplanes over SANUR, course south,
in formation of four at about 5000 feet.
Two more of same type, course east same
locality.

February 24, 1942: 1655 3 monoplanes circling over SANUR. Fires in
neighborhood. Believe there has been some bombing.
1757 Two bombers landing near KUTA.

February 26, 1942: 1102 16 large bombers flying low bombing airport
near BENOA.
1258 3 large bombers, 4 motors, flying low in
BADUNG STRAIT, bearing 012° T, turning towards us.

March 1, 1942: 1445 2 large planes over SANUR, flying low.
1546 1 plane flying low over BENOA, bearing 283° T.

March 30, 1942: 1415 Large seaplane flying south-west, over NORTH-
WEST POINT, CHRISTMAS ISLAND; altitude 1500 feet.

March 31, 1942: At various times between daylight and 0849 2
cruiser observation seaplanes flying over CHRISTMAS ISLAND and
adjacent waters. They are not fast and I never saw one of them
dive or climb sharply.

April 1, 1942: 0825 One observation plane on catapult of NATORI
type CL. Catapult empty at 0853. 1543 One observation plane
flying over FLYING FISH COVE. 1602 Observed plane diving towards
me from over island. 1637 Observed plane back on catapult of
NATORI. 1659 Observed plane on catapult of JINTSU type CL (with
[CROSSED OUT TEXT: cutter type of bow]) (with what I now believe was cutter type of bow)

[HANDWRITTEN: H 39]

— page 116 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

February 19, 1942

(1) One AP similar to AKAGI MARU; at anchor in SANUR ROAD 8° 39' 20" S,
115° 18' 20" E. 2 torpedoes. By periscope, white light method;
divergent spread; depth settings 8 feet; details as follows:

Own course 305° T. | Times | 153650 | 153700
Own speed 2.5 knots | Tubes | 1 | 3
Target heading 193° T. | Bearing (rel.) | 344 | 344
Target speed 0 knots | Gyro angle | 343°10' | 343°15'
Range 2200 yards | Track angle | 84°50' port | 84°45' port
| Point of aim | Fwd. part | Stack
| | of bridge |

Anchor chain was up and down; our navigation had indicated a set and
drift of 335°, 0.5 knots prior to 1508. This was not corrected for in
firing torpedoes. (True course of torpedoes 288°) Smoke from wakes
appeared to go ahead of target. Wakes not visible in water which was
much riled up with mud and wreckage. No bangs, but ship was observed
1 hour and 6 minutes later to be proceeding out of strait with starboard
list and down by stern; escorted by four DDs. (Range 15,000 yards;
angle on bow 90° starboard). A recheck of navigation, and target obser-
vations shows that current was about 114°, 2.25 knots in the half hour
immediately preceding firing. This would not account for misses. Ships
were riding to a weak north setting current. In any case torpedoes
should have exploded on striking bottom, as it is known that firing took
place somewhere between 2600 and 4800 yards from 5-fathom curve (in the
direction of torpedo fire).

(2) One AP similar to KINAI MARU; at anchor bearing about 070° T, four
hundred yards from ship described above (Relative position fixed by
observation at 1458 when range was 3600 yards). 2 torpedoes. By peris-
cope, white light method; divergent spread; depth settings 8 feet;
details as follows:

Own course 305° T. | Times | 153717 | 153728
Own speed 2.5 knots | Tubes | 2 | 4
Target heading 193° | Bearing (rel.) | 347 | 347
Target speed 0. | Gyro angle | 347 | 346°45'
Range 2200 (set on machine; | Track angle | 83° port | 83°15' port
should have been 1900). | Point of aim | Stack | Fwd. part of
| | | bridge

No bangs, but 1 hour 6 minutes later could not find ship although his
partner was being escorted out of harbor on course 060°, speed 10, by
the patrol of 4 DDs.

February 25, 1942

(1) One large AP similar to SADO MARU; in BADUNG STRAIT north of NUSA
BESAR; 3 torpedoes; by periscope, white light method, divergent spread;
depth settings 8 feet; details as follows:

(see next page)
[HANDWRITTEN: H 40]

— page 117 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: SECRET]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF.

G. Attacks (Continued)

February 25, 1942 (Continued)

Own course 176.0           Times           054320   054340   054400
Target course 278°          Tubes              5        6        7
Target speed 10 knots       Bearing (rel.)   171      173      164
Range 700 yards             Gyro angle       159      161.5    152
Torpedo run 700 yards       Track angle      122P     120.5P   129P
                            Point of aim     Bow      Stern    Fwd. king-
                                                                post

I saw one torpedo hit between forward kingpost and bridge; a column of
water going as high as the bridge. After Torpedo Room and Maneuvering
Room personnel state there were two hits.

(2) DD of SIGURE type; in BADUNG STRAIT north of NUSA BESAR; 3 torpedoes
(thought he was CL); by periscope (white light method); divergent
spread; depth settings 8 feet; details as follows:

Own course 334°.8           Times            055905   055920   055937
Target course 231°          Bearings         342      328      323
Target speed 5 knots        Gyro angles      325      311      304.2
Range 550 yards             Track angles     111P     125P     133P
Torpedo run 555 yards       Tubes            1        2        3
                            Points of aim    Stern    Stern    Middle

I saw no torpedoes running but attribute this to scantiness of peris-
cope exposure. I heard no bangs except "Sound" called up that two of
them had hit something. A series of explosions to starboard at about
this time caused me to go to Depth Charge Stations and abandon the
Conning Tower. My last impression of the DD was that his stern was
coming out of water. About 2 minutes after firing I heard a distant
thud on the port bow and I am of the opinion that one of this salvo
struck a ship of the convoy which was strung along to the right and
left of the destroyer at which the salvo was directed.

March 31, 1942

Fired 4 from bow tubes at JINTSU type CL which had sharply flaring
clipper bow with painted CHRYSANTHEMUM or FLAMING SUN figure head;
Divergent spread, white light method by periscope, depth settings
10 feet, own course 175°.6, own speed 2.5, target course 085°, tar-
get speed 15, details as follows:

Firing times                084815   084855   084905   084915
Tube No.                    1        2        3        4
Point of aim                Bow      Stern    Foremast Mainmast
Bearing                     009      014      003      003
Gyro angle                  346      354      342      342
Track angle                 100P     95P      107P     107P
Range                       1100     1050     1000     1000

Believe target was turning towards me during firing. Judge angle on
bow to have been about 070° port and range 700 yards after firing
fourth fish. 085015 One explosion. Chief of Boat watching clock in

H 41

— page 119 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

G. Attacks (Continued)

April [HANDWRITTEN: 1] 1, 1942 (Continued)

One ship (course 180°; on speed 12.2; target course 086°; target
speed 2.5; depth settings 10 feet. By periscope, white light method,
divergent spread (In effect, longitudinal). Details as follows:

Firing times | 170240 | 170246
Tube No. | 7 | 8
Point of aim | Between guns | Between gun 5 and
| 1 & 2 | mainmast
Bearing | 150 | 149
Gyro angle | 161.5 | 161
Track angle | 075.5 | 075
Range | 1140 | 1100

One explosion at 170325 with much water noise. 1705 Three explosions
which I took to be depth charges. Propellers could no longer be
heard.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 43]

— page 120 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

H. Enemy A/S Measures (and steps taken to avoid)

February 19, 1942 Patrol of 4 ASASHIO DDs (with white stack markings
and numeral "2" on second funnel of one of them) endeavored to keep me
away from 2 large APs in SANUR ROAD. They operated in sectors at low
speed at radii of 1/2 mile to 6 miles from anchored ships, using flag-
hoist and searchlight for intercommunication. They occasionally put on
bursts of high speed. Two would "ping" at a time and two would listen.
The "pingers" were about 1 kc apart in frequency in order to not confuse
their operators. Owing to irregularity of bottom and shallow water I
don't believe they had much luck until after we fired. When pinging
got on us we would let her have a burst of speed and then a change of
course; then resume former course and slow down. Everything was shut
down except lighting and IC motor generators and gyro. All steering by
hand. We were handicapped in not using our one remaining sound head
(due to shallow water) and used hull spots only. They gave us a thorough
depth charging very close aboard after firing. Prior to firing we had
two drops of two each well distant, followed by two barrages of 5 each
more close aboard. These may have been aircraft bombs. After firing I
think they all "worked us over" with a string or two apiece. Firing
interval very small - about 1-2 seconds.

February 25, 1942 Patrol of 2 ASASHIO or SIGURE DDs worked on us for
about 4-1/2 hours. One would listen while the other would ping at
intervals. Drain pump, trim pump, hydraulic plant and periscope hoist
motors never failed to attract attention, resulting in either the
"pinger" getting on us or a run starting in our direction. Three times
one ran over us without dropping. Sea was very flat and one of these
gents was observed to have about 10 lookouts on top of his conning
tower. Charges were not dropped as extravagantly as on the 19th but
they felt closer and heavier. This ship used standard evasion tactics;
bursts of speed during pinging with course changes up to 45°, running
silent when pinging stopped and using speed, depth and rudder to keep
inside his turning circle and to cause him to cross ahead or astern.
Maximum depth 210 feet.

March 31, 1942 2 ASASIOs, 2 MINEKAZEs pinging on same frequency must
have confounded themselves. Occasionally one or two would listen.
They had better luck listening. Two NATOHI cruisers using Y gun - drops
of 4. They are not too bad when ship is at 200 feet. In no case was
use of a fast inner A/S screen observed. Pinging speed is 12 knots.
Listening speed about 3 knots (after S/M is tentatively located). Paid
no attention to us until after attack, except to go deep for a depth
charge attack when first forced under at 0610. After delivery of
attack they were very troublesome. Cruiser airplanes worried me but I
do not know that they actually contributed to JAP effort.

April 1, 1942 NATOHI cruisers apparently not fitted with echo-ranging.
Neither the one which sank nor the one which came out thereafter at
high speed (sound estimated 30 knots) to look around, indulged in ping-
ing. In afternoon JINTSU type cruiser did not ping. Two ASASIOs and
two MINEKAZEs were disposed in a rectangular formation ahead and
around him at about 3000 yards distance; all pinging and all five ships

[HANDWRITTEN: H 44]

— page 121 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
H Hazards (and steps taken to avoid)

April 1, 1942 (Continued)
zigging at about 12 knots, making a sweep outside harbor entrance prior
to sortie of 2 APs and remaining NATORI which appears to be acting as
flagship today. Both cruisers had planes off ships from about 0853 to
1027. After attack on JINTSU at 1000 yards at 1703 they gave us hell
until near midnight. A "sleeper" stayed right over us, whom we couldn't
even hear in our sound gear, but he was listening to us. Every now and
then he would drop one to four from a Y gun, putting on no speed what-
ever. They were still pinging but were no longer in sight when we
surfaced at 0028 on April 2. I had attempted to get away on course 270°.
We were on that course at 1919 when we lost control of ship and broached
(due to faulty manipulation of Forward Trim Tank when adjusting trim
while coming up to periscope depth). After a succession of heavy depth
charge attacks (commencing at 1933) I changed to 315° T. at 1944 in
order to change the picture for them. There was not enough battery
left for any more use of speed so we can only thank God for getting
away. Good management on my part had nothing to do with it. Their
listening results at night are evidently excellent. We stopped every-
thing except the gyro and an IC motor generator early in the evening.
We ran the gyro from a battery jumper which we recently had installed
to supply the IC motor generators in case of lighting MG failure. What
walking was done was done quietly; talking was only in whispers.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 45]

— page 122 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: NARA]
[STAMP: FILED]

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

I. Major defects and casualties

February 18, 1942 0957 Discovered salt water in lubricating oil
starboard main motors and reduction gearing. Proceeded on port shaft
and removed starboard cooler. Pumped all salt water and contaminated
oil from system. Also heavy emulsification on port side. Secured lube
oil cooling to main motors and reduction gearing. Proceeded on alter-
nate sides until sumps were thoroughly cleansed and flushed. Contamina-
tion of both sumps probably due to one leaky cooler and open gate valve
between sumps but replaced both coolers during day. These were original
coolers. Subsequent examination showed both coolers to be leaking.

February 19, 1942 0300 Section of trim line in pump room leaking badly.
This is 3rd section to go since war began. Ship's force repaired with
patch of rubber, friction tape and metal strap.
1600 Leak in battery ventilation exhaust (outboard
section). Drain takes care of it. Subsequent examination failed to
reveal source as piping holds 5#/in² internal pressure. Leak only
shows with pressure from outside. (See Feb. 25, 1942)
On placing Nos. 1 and 2 auxiliary engines on charge
the fresh water coolers were found to be leaking. No. 1 cooler had
2920 hours and No. 2 1093 hours of use. Sea valves had been closed
tightly and zincs were in good condition. These core assemblies are
just too fragile to withstand the shaking incident to a good depth
charging. Coolers were replaced with spares.

February 20, 1942 A short circuit developed between series and shunt
fields of No. 2 auxiliary generator. Jumped one section of series
field out of circuit and generator operates satisfactorily at charging
voltages.

February 21, 1942 No. 1 auxiliary engine lubricating oil cooler leak-
ing. No. of hours in use 2926.7. Core was removed, leaks were
plugged by filling leaky tubes with soft solder and cooler reassembled.

February 25, 1942 Subsequent to depth charging observed that battery
ventilation exhaust system was leaking badly; the central drain pipe
in the control room discharging a full stream at 200 feet. During
night found source to be a leaking threaded connection of drain piping
to forward section of ventilation exhaust piping in superstructure.
Made jury rig repair of wicking, white lead, tape, shellac, and marlin.

March 13-14, 1942 Leaking lubricating oil coolers on Nos. 4 and 2
main engines (400 and 2900 hours respectively). Replaced with spares.

March 18, 1942 Leaking riser on TRIM Line in After Battery Room.
Another "baling wire" repair.

March 19, 1942 Leaking section TRIM Line in Forward Battery Room,
after stateroom. Same old stuff.

March 31, 1942 TRIM line leaking through 3 holes in Forward Torpedo
Room. Pipe is paper thin.

[HANDWRITTEN: H 46]

— page 123 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[HANDWRITTEN: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
I. Major defects and casualties
February 23, 1942
No. 2 auxiliary engine lubricating oil cooler leaking. No. of
engine hours in use 2931.2. Repair procedure as on 21st.

Note: This is insert between February 21st and February 25th.
[HANDWRITTEN: H 47]

— page 124 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

I. Major defects and casualties (Continued)

March 21, 1942 Depth charge attack opened contact OL3, BuDwg SS196-S62
01303, General Electric Co. Dwg. No. WW-4979076. This contact is
the overload relay on the negative bus of the after battery. When it
opened, the holding coil closing main battery bus contactor and main
power bus contactor opened, losing the power to the main motors. The
main battery bus contactor and main power bus contactor were then
blocked closed by wooden boards. On surfacing, wood blocks were removed
and an attempt was made to reenergize the holding coil. No success
was obtained and the contactors were left blocked in. Later contact
OL3 was found to be making poor contact. The contact points were re-
adjusted and the overload relay functioned satisfactorily. The block
was then removed from the holding coil.

April 1, 1942 Leaky stop on TRIM Line in Forward Torpedo Room permitted
tank pressure to get on TRIM Line in Forward Battery Room giving us a
good leak into battery tank during depth charging. Developed an 80
volt battery ground before situation was cleared. No water into cells.

First depth charge attacks opened another lube oil
cooler on No. 3 engine and ruined another sump tank full of oil.
We have just enough lubricating oil left to get back. The outboard sea
and stop valves leak badly on this engine. Replaced cooler with spare.
This is ninth cooler to fail on this patrol.

[HANDWRITTEN: H48]

— page 125 —
[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

J. General Remarks

Health of officers and crew was excellent. There was one
case of bubo, one abscessed tooth and nothing of a serious nature.
Prickly heat outbreaks were bad after depth charge parties during
which air conditioning was necessarily secured.

Morale is extremely high and is inspiring to me. If the
cheerfulness, loyalty, aggressiveness, devotion to performance of
duty of this ship's company is indicative of that of the Navy as
a whole (and I feel sure it is) there can be no doubt as to the
eventual outcome of the conflict. The ship was in a number of
"tight spots" and suffered a number of casualties. Always
obedience was prompt, duties were performed smartly without indica-
tion of panic, and labor was performed without thought of rest.

[SIGNATURE: F. B. Warder]
F. B. WARDER,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy,
Commanding.

[HANDWRITTEN: H49]

— page 126 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SS197/A16-3
Serial S-05
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

July 2, 1942

From: Commanding Officer,
To : Commander Submarines, Southwest Pacific.

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

Reference: (a) Comsubsaf SECRET Operation Order No. 22.

Enclosures: (A) Report of War Patrol.
(B) Track Charts for 7 approaches (8 attacks).

1. The enclosures are forwarded herewith.

2. Zone -8 time was kept from 12 to 22 May. At 1530 on
22 May changed to zone -9 time. Changed back to -8 time at 1200 on
June 27.

[SIGNATURE: F. B. Warder]
F. B. WARDER

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 132678]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: 9/C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 8-24-66]

— page 127 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
1. NARRATIVE

May 12, 1942 FREMANTLE to KOEPANG

1742 Under way in accordance with COMSUBSAF Operation Order No. 22 which is
     voted in part as follows:

     "SEAWOLF will conduct an offensive patrol against enemy combatant,
     supply, and transport ships in PHILIPPINE area and will attempt
     to determine the principal ports of collection and traffic routes
     which JAPANESE are using to strip the islands of their wealth.
     Get under way on Tuesday May twelfth, passing through boom gate
     shortly after 1000 hours ZED. Thence proceed to investigate various
     ports listed herein while en route MANILA BAY. Patrol in the area
     off MANILA and SUBIC BAYS until about June sixteenth and then
     start south."
2021 When at point D Army searchlights on ROTTNEST fully illuminated SEAL,
     bearing about 136° T, 4 miles from me. Beam was allowed to remain on
     SEAL for an appreciable period of time.
2025 Army searchlight on ROTTNEST fully illuminated this ship but did not
     permit beam to linger. I complained about these people one month and
     five days ago. Experiencing very heavy weather with much wind and rain
     from northwest. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 77.9, by pit log 57.4.

May 13, 1942 FREMANTLE to KOEPANG

     Bad northerly weather persisting.
1509 Sighted patrol plane to southwest, headed direction of GERALDTON. Sub-
     merged (49 sec.) and fired 2 yellow smoke bombs. Both of them burned.
     Adjusted trim and surfaced at 1551. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 322.5;
     by pit log 285.8.

May 14, 1942 FREMANTLE to KOEPANG

     Bad northerly weather persisting.
1607 Dived for training and drills.
1657 Surfaced. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 331.0; by pit log 302.3.

May 15, 1942 FREMANTLE to KOEPANG

     Weather moderating and variable. Zig-zagged at intervals between rain
     squalls with plan which made good 93% of distance steamed. Mileage by
     r.p.m. for day 347.1; by pit log 335.8.

May 16, 1942 FREMANTLE to KOEPANG

     Zig-zagged at intervals.
0959 Submerged for training and drills.
1059 Executed Battle Surface and fired one round from gun. (1m03s to first
     shot).
1102 Dived.
1120 Surfaced. Mileage for day by r.p.m. 331.8; by pit log 310.4.

— page 128 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
SECRET
1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

May 17, 1942 FREMANTLE to KOEPANG

    Having attained position within 200 miles of barrier dived at 0524 and
    commenced periscope patrol.
1833 Surfaced. Having estimated that KOEPANG could be made in 2 days 1 hours
    at 2 engines 80/90 or 2 days 5 hours at 1 engine 80/90, proceeded on
    one engine to conserve fuel. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 177.8; by pit
    log 167.6.

May 18, 1942 FREMANTLE to KOEPANG

0527 Dived. Experimented with various speeds to eliminate vibration of in-
    terior assembly of vertical antenna mast, which is very noisy and
    growing worse.
1831 Surfaced.
2105 Having decoded CSAFI's No. 95 containing information on 5 ships at
    KOEPANG during afternoon of May 17, bent on 2 more engines and proceed-
    ed at 17 knots in order arrive that area on 19th. Mileage by r.p.m.
    for day 172.7; by pit log 165.2.

May 19, 1942 OFF KOEPANG

0508 Dived about 17 miles to west of SEMAU ISLAND and proceeded to enter
    harbor, sea mostly flat but water discolored.
1702 Completed examination of KOEPANG at a distance of 5 miles bearing 316°
    from FORT CONCORDIA light, having crossed 100 fathom curve and gone
    in between 25 and 34 fathoms spots on course 155°. There is no ship-
    ping here other than 5 small sails in the upper reaches of the bay.
    The town presented attractive appearance. Houses of Dutch archi-
    tecture. No fires or evidence of recent bombing. There were fires
    burning on the hillsides about 12 miles to north of town. Stood
    out.
1832 Surfaced and proceeded towards DILLI. Mileage by r.p.m. for day
    180.4; by pit log 185.3.

May 20, 1942 KOEPANG to DILLI

    Rounding TIMOR at 5 to 10 miles, 1 engine at 80%.
0503 Dived.
1825 Surfaced and proceeded on 055° T, auxiliary engine on propulsion, speed
    6 kts.
1937 When in OMBAI Passage REILAND (TM2c), port after lookout, sighted ship
    bearing 250° T, about 5 miles distant. We headed for him, secured
    charge and went to Battle Stations. Closed target on the battery at
    speeds of 0 to 13 knots, and at 20-01-45 fired tube 3; at 20-02-43
    fired tube 4 (small warheads) at MARU of about 5000 tons and 400 feet
    length, range 2000 yards. I had good land background. He was in moon.
2003 Submerged but couldn't see him in the periscope and couldn't hear him on
    the sound gear so at 2012 surfaced and pursued him on 4 main engines
    with idea of overtaking him and giving him one more, close aboard
    submerged. Sighted target on surfacing, bearing about 035° T and
    realized I had probably misjudged his course by about 45°. Opened
    out to about 6000 yards to starboard of his track, paralleled him
    and slowed to 13 knots and continued with the chase as I was over-
    taking him rapidly and wished to decrease our phosphorescent wake.
    Moon now low (about 1-1/2 hours before moonset) and behind clouds.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

GRET
1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

May 20, 1942 KOEPANG to DILLI (Continued)
    Islands visible on both sides of passage. JAP checked at about 7 knots as
    I ran up his starboard side at 6000 yards abeam on course 055° T.
210230 When about 2 points forward of target's starboard beam observed him zig
    towards me about 40°, putting us about 30° on his starboard bow. I was
    expecting him to change course about this time to head for DILLI, so at-
    tached no especial significance to the zig except to thank him for help-
    ing me get up ahead; before diving to take him in the last hour of the
    moonlight. At this time lookout reported a light to starboard and while
    I was looking for this (between TIMOR and us), Ensign Mercer, Officer
    of the Deck, saw MANU fire his bow gun. I heard the report before. I
    got down the hatch and one of the lookouts (BENNETT, GM1c) had heard
    the shell go overhead.
2105 Submerged and c/c to 030° T. Moon is behind clouds, periscope useless,
    so ordered 90 feet.
2110 One depth charge; missed us badly. Ordered 200 feet. Target is making
    200 r.p.m. on a single screw. Target milled back and forth in vicinity
    of our submarine until 2240 at which time his screws faded out on
    true bearing 096°, still making speed.
2254 Surfaced on 276° and as soon as we established that all was clear c/c
    to 033° to head for KAMBING IS, with the idea of diving about 12 miles
    north of DILLI and to acquire the land background of AMBON in case JAP
    DDs should rally around during the night. Mileage by r.p.m. for day
    128.7; by pit log 134.7.

May 21, 1942 off DILLI
1230 Secured charge.
1445 Dived with DILLI bearing 151° T, distant 9 miles.
1757 Commenced patrol across entrances to DILLI Harbor, at a least distance
    of 4 miles from Light House on courses 253° - 073°. No ships (except
    a schooner of about 100 tons, 100 ft. long, 2 masts; white hull and
    well kept) in harbor, which is clean and most attractive in appearance.
    Air field is to west of town. There is no evidence of bombing apparent
    in the periscope. Buildings present clean-cut appearance, no fires
    burning. (According to press news Army reported intensive bombing of
    KOEPANG and DILLI on May 18), at sunset proceeded on 325° to pass
    KAMBING to starboard and head for AMBON in compliance CSAF No. 95 which
    directed omission KENDARI from route.
1816 Surfaced.
2225 Moonset. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 144.2; by pit log 145.4.

May 22, 1942 DILLI to AMBON
    Proceeding on direct route DILLI to AMBON course 030°.
0446 Dived.
1530 Set clocks one hour ahead to Zone -9 time.
1917 Surfaced. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 145.4; by pit log 142.3.

May 23, 1942 DILLI to AMBON
0004 Moonset.
0541 Dived.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

May 23, 1942 (Continued)
1738 Sighted ship bearing 040° T, angle on bow 15° S, distance 13000 yards, went
     to Battle Stations and c/c to 130° T at 6 knots to close him. At
18-15-40 at a range of 700 yards commenced delivery of a 3 torpedo salvo from
     bow tubes. I only saw one wake from this salvo and it went under counter
     of ship at which time we heard a noise as of a detonator firing. At
18-17-35 with target zigging towards us slowly at 570 yards fired a fourth
     torpedo aimed 1/4 length ahead of bow. Sound heard this one run. MARU
     was firing bow gun at me when 4th torpedo was fired but had not yet
     manned stern gun.
1820 He dropped 3 depth charges and I continued on to 200 feet.
1840 Returned to periscope depth and at
18-40-20 found target bearing 243° on course 143° at 6000 yards. Came on up
     to 55 feet in order to observe him more readily in the dusk and continued
     to close him. He is zigging.
1919 Surfaced and pursued on 4 main engines, keeping the target just in sight
     as we rounded him to the southward. Moon in first quarter just about
     overhead but rain clouds on horizon to southward. Decided to pass him
     during night and throw 2 more torpedoes at him at dawn. During night ran
     established his course as 212°, speed 9.5.
2300 Having attained position about 20° on his starboard bow at about 8 miles,
     steadied on course 210° and slowed to 1 engine; 11 knots. About
2317 Observed target to be signalling by blinker to a ship on either side of
     him, whose hulls we could not see. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 161.0; by
     pit log 168.8.

May 24, 1942 Between AMBON and DILLI
0050 Moonset. Target no longer in sight.
0100 Completed charge.
0537 Dived and c/c to 140° T to get ahead of target.
0555 Went to Battle Stations and at
0605 Sighted target bearing 025° T, course 210° at about 10000 yards. I was al-
     ready 5° on his port bow and I had intended to be just ahead of him so I
     turned to head for him and at
0615 came to 288° (normal approach) in order to close the track.
0620 When 850 yards from the track came left 120° in order to shoot with a 90°
     ship track for stern tubes at about 1000 yards (I had the feeling that
     my torpedoes may not have armed the day before and I also wanted to get
     some torpedoes fired from the after room). Unfortunately depth control
     required a couple of bursts of speed after turning and when I commenced
     firing at 0636 range was 1600 yards. I had 2 tubes ready, set-up cold,
     target not zigging, and planned to give one to foremast and one to
     mainmast. After 2 unsuccessful attempts to fire the first tube I fired
     the second at his track (MOT). The torpedo ran just forward of his bow.
     It did not explode. He did not see it until it had crossed his track.
     Unfortunately I didn't have another fish ready. The torpedo threw the
     JAPS into great commotion and they ran fore and aft and up and down at a
     great rate; white uniforms predominating. Water was quite smooth and I
     was not inside his turning circle as I had been yesterday so at 0639
     ordered 200 feet and rigged for depth charge.
0643 Received 3 close aboard, but overhead, about 15 seconds between 1st and
     2nd, about one minute between 2nd and 3rd. They stirred the water around

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF
SECRET

1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

May 24, 1942 (Continued)
     In our superstructure a good bit more than the ones of yesterday but
     did not give us as much "bang" (due to our greater depth). Was in-
     formed that torpedo in No. 5 tube was partially ejected and outer
     door could not be closed, nor could depth and gyro setting spindles
     be withdrawn.
0648 Target fading out on 220° T.
0725 Succeeded in closing outer door on No. 5 tube.
0732 At 63 feet nothing in sight except GUNUNG API bearing 156° T distant
     20 miles.

     CSAF's serial 3 had been decoded at 0330 LZT. This contained the
     following "S197 proceed north of AMBOINA by dusk 24th XX GAR coming in
     through DJAILOLO. " It was impossible to comply with these instructions
     due to our having pursued the MARU; so I gathered the intent was to have
     me clear of AMBON and MANIPA on the 25th. I decided to violate the
     letter of my routing instructions by proceeding west of BURU in order to
     more nearly comply with their apparent intentions. Distance to KEMA,
     same either way. I therefore set course 345° T.

1847 Sunset.
1908 Surfaced Mileage by r.p.m. 154.0; by pit log 150.8.

May 25, 1942 BANDA SEA
0143 Moonset.
0554 Dived.
0635 Sunrise.
1919 Surfaced. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 157; by pit log 159.5.

May 26, 1942 PITT PASSAGE en route KEMA.
0243 Moonset.
0535 Dived.
1910 Surfaced.
2000 Commenced striking down torpedoes to Forward Torpedo Room in bright
     moonlight.
2230 Completed striking four torpedoes below. Mileage by r.p.m. for day
     155.0; by pit log 159.9.

May 27, 1942 MOLUCCA PASSAGE en route KEMA
0312 Moonset.
0552 Dived.
1914 Surfaced. Weighed the propriety of spending a day submerged off KEMA
     in view of CSAF serial 9 of May 26 which contained information of
     large convoy DAVAO bound from BATAVIA and directions for SEAWOLF to
     be 20 miles 320° from STROOMEN KAAP by dawn of 30th. Estimated
     that this was feasible by indulging in 4 engine running and some
     daylight surface activity in crossing CELEBES SEA; although at a
     cost of considerable inroad in our fuel reserve with resultant
     likelihood of a slow trip south of Barrier. So ran slow during
     night in order spend day off KEMA. Mileage by r.p.m. for day
     134.2; by pit log 138.5.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF
SECRET 1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

May 28, 1942 off KEMA
014 Sighted LEMBEH IS and at 0139 lay to endeavoring to hold a position about
10 miles bearing 090° from KEMA Village until dawn. Much rainfall during
night and entire forenoon.
0552 Dived with KEMA bearing 270°, 10 miles.
1616 Completed examination of roadstead with Village bearing 298°, 5 miles;
at edge of 100 fathom curve.
1917 Surfaced and proceeded to round CELEBES through BANKA PASSAGE at best
sustained speed, keeping 10 miles off shore or in mid-channel. Passed
many fishing boats during night. Mileage by pit log 137.7; by r.p.m.
121.7.

May 29, 1942 CELEBES SEA en route position off STROOEN KAAP.
0642 Dived.
1708 Surfaced.
1854 Sunset. Mileage by pit log 230.9; by r.p.m. 225.6.

May 30, 1942 off STROOEN KAAP.
0600 Dived within 2 miles assigned position and patrolled 054°-234° keeping
within 3 miles of assigned point. Many bancas and floating refuse.
1947 Surfaced. Mileage by pit log 141.6; by r.p.m. 128.2.

May 31, 1942 off STROOEN KAAP.
Lying to within 3 miles assigned position.
0554 Dived.
1113 Sighted what was thought to be banca bearing 089° and c/c to 130° to
intercept it.
1125 Made out tops and stack, ship bearing 098° T, course 207°, 14000 yards
and came right to normal approach course (190° T.) at 6 knots to close.
Estimated that if ship made 7 knots on his present course I could
attain a favorable firing position in 6 hours at 6 knots; which looked
hopeless but at 1140 target observation showed zig to right to 243°;
target now bearing 112°, range 10000; angle on bow 45°S. Went to
Battle Stations and continued to close at 6 knots between observations.
Successive course checks showed target to be zigging between 223° and
253°. Succeeded in closing range to 4200 yards with 100° S angle on
bow but did not fire for the following reasons: (1) Three minute
torpedo run in flat, calm sea would have made evasion a simple matter
(2) Did not consider target worthy of a 4 fish spread with only 17
torpedoes left in ship; and likelihood of soon contacting large north-
bound convoy (3) Did not consider it wise to reveal SEAWOLF's presence
in locality in an attack which did not promise success; with the
DAVAO bound convoy heading this way. At 1233 abandoned approach.
1905 Sunset.
1937 Surfaced.
2019 Moonrise. Mileage by pit log 83.9; by r.p.m. 61.7.

June 1, 1942 off STROOEN KAAP.
0550 Dived.
1945 Surfaced.
2119 Moonrise. Mileage by pit log 72.5; by r.p.m. 38.3.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 2, 1942 off STROO EN KAAP
0554 Dived.
1933 Surfaced.

        In view of CSAF Serial 16 of May 30 which stated that convoy was due
        my position afternoon of June 2nd, decided to hold my point for one
        more day in the absence of other orders; although Serial 9 of May 26
        required me to proceed towards POLLAC HARBOR at dark of 2nd. ( I had
        noted that PER IT, to south of us, had orders to hold on until dark
        June 3).

2026 Rain and darkness caused me to retire towards DAVAO on 054° T. at 7
        knots (assumed enemy speed) with intention of returning to position on
        improving visibility.
2323 Moonrise but still raining.
2322 On decoding CSAF Serial 24 which modified Serial 9 by directing us to
        proceed thru SIBUTU omitting POLLAC and BASILAN but which did not
        modify the time of departure from STROO EN KAAP, I decided that I had no
        further choice in the matter; so c/c to 340° T and increased to 11
        knots to head for SIBUTU. Mileage for day by pit log 88.9; by r.p.m.
        62.8.

June 3, 1942 CELEBES SEA en route SIBUTU
0649 Dived. Sunrise.
1913 Surfaced. Mileage by pit log for day 167.7; by r.p.m. 165.2

June 4, 1942 SIBUTU PASS and SULU SEA en route TOLONG
0410 Cleared pass and set course to pass to east of PEARL BANK.
0619 Dived.
1946 Surfaced. Mileage by pit log for day 162.1; by r.p.m. 154.5.

June 5, 1942 SULU SEA en route TOLONG
0020 Moonrise.
0635 Dived.
0641 Sunrise.
1913 Sunset.
1931 Surfaced. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 160.3.

June 6, 1942 SULU SEA; off TOLONG.
0050 Moonrise.
0550 Dived with TOLONG village bearing 059°, 15 miles. Spent day patrolling
        north and south off TOLONG between 2 and 6 miles from village staying
        outside of 30 fathoms. No shipping other than native boats.
1940 Surfaced 10 miles southwest of TOLONG and proceeded towards ALIPE
        Point. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 165.0.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

PRET 1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 7, 1942 SULU SEA; DALIPE Point; en route LOOC HARBOR
0140 Moonrise.
0539 Dived with DALIPE Point bearing 070° 10 miles. Spent day patrolling
     north and south off DALIPE Point between 1.6 and 6.5 miles from light-
     house, staying outside 100 fathoms. No shipping other than native
     bancas.
1955 Surfaced. Mileage by pit log for day 152.4; by r.p.m. 147.1.

June 8, 1942 LOOC BAY, TABLAS
0226 Moonrise.
0421 Arrived off LOOC.
0537 Dived with LOOC bearing 087° 10 miles. Spent day patrolling on various
     courses between 3 and 10 miles off LOOC Reef light keeping outside 100
     fathoms. No shipping other than small bancas.
1950 Surfaced and proceeded at 13.5 knots, having decided to make BATANGAS
     by dawn in order have additional day MANILA Area. Much lightning entire
     night.
2338 With DUMALI POINT Light bearing about 298° 4 miles, when on course 354°,
     Lieutenant Deragon sighted what he judged to be a minesweep or tug sharp
     on starboard bow giving us a 45° starboard angle on bow but turning
     towards us at about 1500 yards, smoking heavily. He went to Battle
     Stations and dived the ship. Unable to see anything in periscope but
     Sound picked up ship on port beam, drawing aft rapidly.
2345 C/c to 171° (estimated target course). Sound then reported bearings as
     follows: 23-53-40 213° T; 23-55-15 218° T, 90 r.p.m. Lost propel-
     lers. 23-59-20 High noise level 226° T. Pit log mileage for day
     146.6; by r.p.m. 147.1.

June 9, 1942 TABLAS STRAIT
0002 Surfaced on 171° T and found the target about 1 point on starboard bow
     on course south at about 3000 yards. Decided to overtake him and take a
     shot at him at dawn. C/c to 125° and went ahead full on 2 main engines
     to put MAESTRE de CAMPO is more sizeable than was
     first thought. He is too close to MINDORO
     shore for us to pass him on that side. Took bearings on target as we
     overhauled him and estimated we should intercept him again at about 0300
     off BONGABONG. Rounded MAESTRO de CAMPO at 2 miles and at 0145 slowed
     to 11 knots.
0215 Completed charge.
0250 Regained contact with freighter bearing 268° T, 6000 yards. Opened
     range to eastward to about 10000 yards.
0317 Cut in one more main engine increasing speed to 13.5.
0325 Moonrise.
0344 With target bearing about 270° 5 miles c/c to 193° in order attain
     position 8 miles ahead of target by 0530. His course and speed was fixed
     quite accurately as 180°, 8.2 knots between our surfacing and regaining
     contact with him at 0257 when he was about 8 miles bearing 118° from
     BONGABONG.
0351 Target turned on high intensity searchlight and turned towards us to
     about 150°. Dived and held course. Attribute detection to lightning
     which was mostly behind us, of violent character, and blinding to us
     making observation of him very difficult but probably silhouetting us
     beautifully for him.
0407 Sound picked up target on starboard quarter bearing 326° T, doubtful.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 9, 1942 (Continued)
0415 Another bearing of 313° T. I ordered normal approach (223°) and endeav-
     ored to find target in periscope without success. Target bearing (by
     sound) came up starboard side so fast that I had no confidence in set-up,
     judging that target was either too close for shot (in which case I
     should see him but I couldn't see him) or that he had seriously altered
     speed or course or both, or that sound was not giving me reliable data.
35 I found target in periscope bearing 163° T; angle on bow 175° P, course
     157° T; range 6000 sound generated bearing 167° T; but propellers fading
     out.
41 Abandoned approach and proceeded to northward to pass MAESTRO de CAMPO
     6 miles to port en route BATANGAS.
436 Ensign Mercer, OOD, sighted tops of ship bearing 080° T and turned to
     head for same.
1438 I observed that there were 2 ships and that bearing had changed to 078°
     so came left with full rudder and full speed to normal approach (348°T).
     Battle Stations.
1443 Slowed for observation.
1448 Target bearing 324°, 70° port, course 324°, 13000 yards.
1449 Went ahead standard (6 knots) for 2 periods of 15 minutes and 1 period
     of 10 minutes but most favorable position attained was 6100 yards 5°
     abaft target beam.
1544 Secured from Battle Stations and continued towards BATANGAS.
2005 Surfaced. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 134.5; by pit log 132.6.

June 10, 1942 TABLAS STRAIT; VERDE IS NORTH PASS; BATANGAS BAY
     Steering various courses to make good 291° through VERDE IS NORTH PASS.
0103 MALABRIGO Point abeam to starboard 3.8 miles. A bright gasoline lantern
     has just been lighted in the location of the lighthouse.
0115 Secured charge. Many lights of fishing vessels on both sides; excellent
     visibility in all directions. I don't see how we can avoid being
     sighted but I do not wish to dive until forced to do so. No moon and sky
     is covered with thin cloud film; no lightning as of last night but
     visibility is the best I have ever seen under these circumstances; all
     land masses and configurations and islets being readily distinguishable
     at 25000 yards. Experienced slight set to southward, until well into
     pass when commenced to get a northerly set. Running with all main
     ballast tanks flooded at about 8 knots on one main engine. Wake is high [HANDWRITTEN: ✓]
     ly phosphorescent and engine sparks got out tail pipe even though
     latter is under water.
0158 With left tangent VERDE bearing south sighted ship one point on port bow,
     headed at us at about 6000 yards. Dived to 110 feet and held course,
     285° T.
0200 Sound reported pinging on port bow.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 10, 1942 (Continued)
0208 Ordered 63 feet. Could see neither ship nor land through high peris-
     cope which has been foggy since June 6. Uncertainty of navigation
     in narrowest portion of pass precluded any attempt to maneuver for
     attack.
0209 Pinging stopped, 145° T.
0211 Pinging resumed, 135° T.
0214 Propellers making 132 r.p.m. bearing 126° T.
0230 Went to 55 feet and obtained fix with control room periscope. Secured
     from Battle Stations.
0300 C/c to 270° T and decided to remain submerged in order avoid further
     likelihood detection prior reconnaissance of BATANGAS.
0307 Went to 100 feet.
0425 54 feet.
0507 C/c to 240 T and ship being set on MATOCO POINT.
0534 C/c to 225° T, ship being set on MATOCO POINT.
0613 Commenced entry BATANGAS BAY.
0639 Sighted east bound ship south of MARICABAN IS and turned to 273° T to
     head for him. Battle Stations.
0640 Turned to 180° T to cross his bow and give him stern tube attack. His
     course east, range 6000, angle on bow 2° P.
06-48-30 At 4100 yards found myself 1400 yards from his track which I
     considered too much as angle on bow was still only 21° S, so turned
     with full rudder at 6 knots to course north.
07-00-25 range 2200, angle on bow 35° S, 1270 yards to track. Target is
     small, and I doubt if it's worth a torpedo but position is too good
     so I decided to give him one or two. Speed check has been 5.5 knots.
07-05-00 target bore 323° relative, 55° S, 850 yards; speed check 9.0
     knots. Hit tide rip or fresh water pocket, lost depth control and
     was unable to deliver attack, which was probably a good thing as
     I have a hunch there was not enough range for torpedo to arm. See
     Section 5. Sound reported target crossing bow rapidly and at
07-09-35 Observed target on same course, angle on bow 160° S.
0713 Abandoned attack and proceeded into BATANGAS BAY, course north to pass
     MATOCO POINT 2.2 miles to starboard. At
0758 found ship 1000 yards off MATOCO POINT having been set to eastward
     at 2.2 knots. Went to 4.5 knots and changed to west and then north;
     continued penetration of bay to a point 2.5 miles off BATANGAS CITY.
1115 Commenced withdrawal. There are a number of sailing craft plying back
     and forth in bay and being constructed along the shores. There is no
     other shipping in the Bay. Bay was flat calm but sea picked up in
     afternoon.
1514 Cleared bay and entered VERDE ISLAND NORTH PASS.
1805 Went to Battle Stations for what by 1830 resolved itself into a rock
     off BURIJAR POINT, MARICABAN IS.
2002 Surfaced with high peak MARICABAN IS. bearing 010°, 3.5 miles. Wind
     from WSW, force 6. Much rain and clouds. Stood out pass to west
     and decided to run up between FORTUNE and LUBANG in order take
     position north and west of entrance to SUBIC BAY; to command the
     routes for all north and south bound traffic between EMPIRE, HONG
     KONG and MANILA or SUBIC. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 111.1; by pit
     log 113.5.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF
SECRET
1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 11, 1942 MANILA - SUBIC Area
0234 Visibility reduced to 500 yards, heavy rains, slowed to 5 knots.
0400 Increased to 11 knots.
0603 Dived with SUESTE POINT Light bearing 036° distant 17 miles and
     continued to northward.
1543 Arrived on selected station (14° 49' N 120° 00' E) and patrolled south
     west and north east across traffic route on one hour legs. Much rain.
1959 Surfaced with CAPONES IS. Light bearing 016°.5 T, distant 6.9 miles.
2006 Lying to awash, charging batteries, athwart expected traffic lane. A
     searchlight is playing in sky back of SUESTE POINT, as from GRANDE or
     MAQUINAYA.
2015 Steadied on 150° T. Lookout reported an object on port bow whose
     bearing checked that of LOS FRAILES, which had been in sight on
     surfacing.
2045 Sound reported screws on port side close aboard. Could see nothing,
     looking toward land but turned to 240° to bring stern tubes to bear.
2049 Screws bearing 030° T. Starboard quarter lookout made out ship and
     was endeavoring to show it to me when searchlight fully illuminated
     us.
2050 Submerged at full speed and abandoned conning tower.
2054 Right full rudder. One depth charge, not too far off. 200 feet.
2056 Slowed to 2/3 speed, steadied on 330°.
2057 One depth charge, further away, propellers bearing 048° T.
2100 High speed screws 155° T. One depth charge, missing badly.
2113 C/c to 270° T.
2210 With high noise level on port quarter came to 63 feet and could see
     nothing.
2238 55 feet - Nothing in control room periscope.
2241 Surfaced with CAPONES Light (not burning) bearing 057°.5, 8.9 miles.
     Decided to run to seaward for half of night account poor visibility,
     returning to station at dawn. Mileage by r.p.m. for day 116.2, by
     pit log 107.5.

June 12, 1942 MANILA - SUBIC Area
     Heavy rains continue.
0518 Dived with CAPONES Light bearing 016°.5, 6.9 miles.
0630 With very heavy rain in southeast and heavy clouds on port side (to
     northwest) sighted seaplane and went to 120 feet.
0700 Returned to 63 feet. Seas very rough, visibility only fair, much
     rain.
1031 Sighted tops of ship well inshore and went to normal approach course
     at 2/3 speed.
10-37-30 ship bore 032° T, angle on bow 80° S, range 9000, course 132°.
     C/c to 122° and ran at 6 knots, except for observations. At
1034 ship bore 064°.6, 110° S, 6000 yards. Abandoned approach because of
     inability obtain favorable firing position and insignificance of
     target. Heavy rain squalls and rough seas continuing.
1357 Sighted tops of ship northbound and went to normal approach course
     280°.

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SECRET
1. NARRATIVE (Continued)
June 12, 1942 (Continued)
1407 Ship bore 195° T, 12000 yards.
1425 Ship bore 194° T, 40° S, 7000 yards.
14-49-50 Commenced firing at 1200 yards. Ship is minelayer.
14-53-00 Target turning towards us and demonstrating considerable activity.
Went to 200 feet and rigged for depth charge attack.
1501 Received 2 depth charges, not far distant; after employing evasion tac-
tics to cause target to cross under our stern; which he did, dropping
ash cans on our port quarter. Compensating water line in forward engine
room leaking again. (A patch was put on it during last depth charge
attack).
1539 Returned to periscope depth.
1610 Found target bearing 085° T, 13000 yards, course northeast.
1621 Sighted smoke bearing 126° T and headed for it.
1635 Minelayer now bearing 073° T, headed out this way.
1653 Sighted airplane zooming my periscope. Seas are high and he must have
seen the barrel when ship was in trough. Went to 200 feet and rigged
for depth charge. Changed to 180° T.
1700 C/C to 220° T.
1714 Screws bearing 358° T.
1717 C/C to 240° T.
1723 One depth charge missed astern a good ways off.
1726 Propellers bearing 060° T, close aboard. Right full to 270°.
1755 120 feet.
1831 63 feet; nothing in sight.
2002 Surfaced with CAPONES bearing 048° T, 16.3 miles. Overcast and rainy,
visibility no more than 1000 yards. Decided to run to sea until
battery charge is completed and to dive off CORREGIDOR Channel at dawn,
having found no traffic on this expected steamer lane. Mileage by
pit log 97.0; by r.p.m. 101.8.

June 13, 1942 MANILA Area
0036 Sound reported high speed screws close aboard to port. Could see
nothing. Dived (about 30 miles west of CORREGIDOR).
0106 Surfaced.
0215 Completed charge.
0353 Heard sound gear working; could see nothing, dived. CORREGIDOR
bearing 068° 15.8 miles. Decided to patrol vicinity of point bearing
223° T, 10 miles from CORREGIDOR.
0600 Smoke on horizon towards CABALLO (later turned out to be Station
Vessel).
0637 Heavy rain squalls up towards SUBIC.
0747 Sighted merchant ship, hull down 8 miles, 2 stick masts and single
stack apparently headed for old north channel, course about 070°.
We are now on course 035° heading for old Point "A", 3.4 miles away.
If ship comes here to enter swept channel we should get a shot. If he
continues in NORTH Channel on present course, no chance. Went to 120
feet on account of surface conditions.
0818 63 feet.
0830 Observed small station ship circling to port vicinity 14° 18' N
120° 31'.5 E. Entering MARU altered course to starboard to head for
Station Vessel which is about midway between old Points "A" and "B".
MARU now bears 010° T, angle on bow 90° S, 3000 yards, no chance for
approach.

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1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 13, 1942 (Continued)
0835 C/c to 315° to head up for point from which MARU approached.
0913 Sighted two ships bearing 301° T; went to Battle Stations and headed for
them.
0915 Made out a 3rd MARU astern of first two; the leader now bearing 303° T,
10° S, 10500. Came right to normal approach.
0941 Observed a 4th MARU astern of other 3. Have now crossed bow of column
leader bearing 290° T, 5° P, 5200 yards.
0942 Leading MARU working Station Vessel with searchlight.
09-42-40 Leading MARU zigging radically to port, bearing 288° T, 50°S,
4500 yards.
0945 Leading MARU bearing 294°, 150° S, 4900 yards.
0946 Observed that other MARUS had not zigged but were coming on and that
DD was coming up ahead of them from/starboard quarter; observation on
DD:- 281° T, 5° S, 7200 yards, his course 096°. Ordered course 276°
to watch development of problem.
0952 Screws bearing 025° T (This turned out to be Station Vessel).
0954 Screws bearing 285° T and 034° T.
0955 Screws bearing 276°.5 T.
0957 Found myself on port bow of DD which is now leading column bearing
269°, 15° P, course 104°, 1500 yards, 390 yards from track. First
MARU not in sight. Owing to proximity to track and condition of
surface turned with right full rudder to 014° at 6 knots, ordered 120
feet and tried to coach Sound on for stern tube attacks on ships of
column.
10-02-45 Steady on 014° T making 2.4 knots.
1005 Sound finally picked up target bearing 170° Rel. I ordered him to
shift to target to right in order utilize a target track more
favorable track and better gyro angle. This was a mistake. He did not
succeed in finding a target until 1010 when he found one doubtful pair
of propellers bearing 115° relative.
1014 Observed DD bearing 114° relative, 110° P, 8000 yards; other ships
strung out astern but no favorable firing position. Former leading
MARU now back in column. On same sweep at 1015 observed ship bearing
305° T at 16000 yards on course 110°. Went to course 020° to close.
1115 Observed this ship bearing 308° T, 3° S, 4000 yards course 125° and
decided not to shoot as he was too small to warrant disclosing our
presence in this desirable area. Turned away and let him go by at
1500 yards. Estimated tonnage 1500, 250 feet long, 1 gun forward,
two stick masts, one stack. Wind freshened in afternoon but no white
caps.
1327 When in 14° 20' N, 120° 20' E sighted small ship running parallel to
shore close in to LUZON PT. on about 300° T, 7 miles distant, 90°
port, speed about 12. Looked like it might be our minelayer of
yesterday. Came to 330° expecting that he might come out but he
disappeared from sight on northwesterly course. Patrolled 330° -
150° one hour less. This vicinity (whence ships entered MANILA this
morning) until 1652 when 2 ships were sighted bearing 122° T.
Immediately went to normal approach at 6 knots. Ships are standing
out of channel to westward.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

CHET
1. NARRATIVE (Continued)
June 13, 1942 (Continued)
17-01-30 Leading ship, a DD, bore 120° T, 15° S, course 285°, 10000 yards. A
freighter is following him. At
17-10-30 DD bore 115° T, 8° S, course 287°, 5100 yards. At
1716 DD bore 094°, 10° P, course 284°, 2700 yards. We had crossed his bow.
17-19-45 Sound bearing 230° Relative (075° T).
17-21-20 Pre-firing observation 187° Relative, 032° T, 85° P, course 297°,
1400 yards.
1722 Commenced firing (See Attack Section).
1728 Screws bearing 354° T. (Ship at Depth Charge Stations). Held course and
went at full speed to 200 feet. DD crossed astern and at 1729 dropped
first of eight depth charges. Some came fairly close.
1807 Compensating water line leaking again. Ordered 120 feet. Pinging and
screws all round us.
1843 Pinging grew faint. No screws audible. Ordered 63 feet.
1848 Screws bearing 060° T.
1850 Screws 050° T.
1851 Screws 045° T.
1852 Screws on steady bearing 040° T.
1853 Found DD bearing 038° T, hull down, large port angle on bow making high
speed.
1853 Unusually large cloud of smoke bearing 004° T.
1905 DD dead astern bearing north. Pinging is north west; some whitecaps on
starboard bow.
1919 Large smoke cloud now bearing 046° T.
1944 Four more explosions on starboard quarter a long ways off. Retired to
westward. Smoke may have been from MARU; if he had been hit, of which
there was only circumstantial evidence. DD last seen to northward,
milling about at high speed.
2005 Pinging bearing 010° T.
2012 Pinging from 310° T to 340° T.
2015 Surfaced with CORREGIDOR bearing 068° T, 21 miles.
2032 Searchlight bearing 005° T, playing around but goes over us.
2355 C/c to 080° T in order to regain position whence ships had entered
MANILA yesterday, by dawn. Mileage by r.p.m. 104.9.

June 14, 1942 Off MANILA
Much rain and lightning in mid-watch.
0447 Dived with CORREGIDOR bearing 082°, 31 miles.
0600 Pinging 060° T.
0612 2 unidentified objects ahead.
0624 Sighted ship ( 1 stack, 2 masts) bearing 178°, 8 miles, large port angle.
If we had been where we were yesterday morning would have had much
better chance. C/c to 095° T.
0650 Made out total of four MARUs in vicinity mentioned above standing in to
CORREGIDOR, plane flying over ships.
0707 Sighted 2 ships, one a torpedo boat or minesweep bearing 073° and 083° T;
other believed to be subchaser, never positively identified. I con-
tinued on course 098° T. for entrance to Channel. These last two ships
were using sound gear but gradually withdrew to northwest.

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1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 14, 1942 (Continued)
1210 Sighted plane bearing 083° T at about 1200 feet on southwesterly course.
1249 Sighted southbound MARU latitude 14° 16' N, 120° 33' E bearing 069° 9 mi dis.
starboard angle on bow, too close in shore for me to get at. Station ship
is maneuvering around in about same location as yesterday.
1330 Turned to head up for channel entrance on 036° T.
1439 With CORREGIDOR bearing 037° 13 miles c/c to north there being smoke in
sight on bearings 338° T, 150° T, and an unidentified ship bearing 027°
standing outnorth channel.
1503 Ship in north channel bearing 015°.5 T; a small MARU bearing 347° T
continued north. Going to 120 feet between observations account condition
surface.
1518 Sound reported screws similar to those of station vessel bearing 010° R.
Ordered 63 feet and at 1521 found DD dead ahead at 8000 yards, 85° P,
making all of 20 knots. Propeller count 230 r.p.m. He evidently came
out north Channel but turned west as soon as he passed point "B" (as our
DDs used to do, but other shipping usually did not).
1528 He disappeared on bearing 265° T, still zigging at high speed. At this
time there was standing out the channel a small oil barge of about 600
tons of low freeboard and a small MARU of about 250 feet length, neither
of which I considered worth a shot. I decided to turn to 265° T, the
direction in which DD disappeared, in order to close any shipping he
might be escorting in.
1607 Sighted NATORI type CL on westerly course bearing 032°, 6 miles, catapult
empty. Immediately went to collision course at high speed.
16-19-50 CL bore 011°.3 T, 80° P, course 271°.3; 11,000 yards, speed check
13 knots.
1629 CL bore 000°.4, 150° P, course 330°; 13000 yards, speed check 17 knots. At
16-30-25 Sighted airplane dead ahead on northeasterly course at about 1500
feet.
16-44-45 CL bore 357°.7 T, 16000 yards, angle on bow large and port. Abandoned
approach.
1646 Small freighter sighted bearing 045° T, 10000 yards, course 315°, angle
on bow 90° P. No chance for attack. Heavy rain set in. Resumed course
west.
1805 Sighted something bearing 216° T and headed for it.
1812 Observed that bearing was changing to left so came to normal approach,
110° T.
1815 Went to Battle Stations. Thought it might be DD coming back. Two
targets developed; a torpedo boat and a sub-chaser. Neither of them
worth a shot under circumstances. They pinged hell out of the area for
the next hour, closest range 3500 yards. When I saw what they were I
again turned west, the torpedo boat on on my starboard quarter and the
sub-chaser on my port quarter. Both gradually worked to the northward,
my last observation of torpedo boat 19-09-30 bearing 084°, 150° P, course
054°, 9000 yards. Sea flat but considerable rain, neither of which
helped them. My last observation of sub-chaser 19-20-25 076° T, 100° P,
course 356°, 6000 yards. It developed that they were covering the
sortie of a large MARU, which I observed at 19-33-45 bearing 109°.7 T,
10° S, course 279°.7 T, 4000 yards coming out of rain in gathering
darkness. Attempted echo range without result.

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1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 14, 1942 (Continued)
19-37-10 bearing 113°.6 T, 18° S, course 275°.6, 3000 yards, 930 yards to
track, speed check 12.5. At 19-38-35 went right full rudder at 6 knots to
open track a little prior to turning in to firing course (a mistake).
19-40-25 Left full rudder to 187° T (for 90° ship track).
19-42-30 Sound bearing 140° T.
19-43-05 Sound bearing 150° T.
19-44-10 Observed track bearing 155°.2 T, 2550 yards, angle on bow very
large and starboard. Target has zigzagged away giving us very bad track
with 3500 yard torpedo run.
19-52-30 Target bore 202°.5 T, 165° S, 6000 yards on course 220°. Abandoned
attack.
1955 Secured from Battle Stations.
2011 With a ping or working on 035° T, surfaced on course west with
CORREGIDOR bearing 062°, 18.5 miles; dark and rainy.
2104 High speed screws 240° T. Dived to 120 feet, CORREGIDOR bearing 067°,
24 miles.
2200 Surfaced and continued west.
2355 Reversed course in order to remain in position by dawn. Mileage by pit log
94.4; by rps 98.5

June 15, 1942 Off MANILA
0355 Dived with CORREGIDOR bearing 069°, 22 miles; continued on course
080°.
0600 Ordered 63 feet.
0609 On way up sound reported screws bearing 028° relative.
0611 Screws bearing 030° relative.
0612 In periscope found DD close aboard bearing 106°.5 T, 30° P, 480
yards (3° of arc - 75 ft), 027°.5 relative. Went to Battle Stations
but was too close to shoot. Sea is flat; middle of morning
twilight. I was expecting a sub-chaser and not a DD. DD passed at
about 300 yards and swept on to north and west at about 10 knots
(132 rpm).
0628 DD bore 307° T, 170° S, 8000 yards, course 317°. (These 2 observations
check him at 18 knots?? His bow wake was not large when he passed).
06-43-50 Observed MARU standing out, bearing 128°.5 T, 30° S, course 278°.5,
8000 yards. Went full at standard speed to 219° T. At
06-51-20 MARU bore 145°.4 T, 50° S, 3900 yards, course 275°.4, speed
10 knots. Attempted echo range with no luck. At
06-56-45 MARU bearing 156°.4, 70° S, course 266°.4, 2450 yards. At
07-00-35 pre-firing observation bearing 174°.8 T, 88° S, course 266° T,
1700 yards.
07-01-20 Commenced successful attack. See section 7.
0705 Received first depth charge; missed a good ways.
0710 Received second. Pinging to north of us. Continuing on 218°.
0739 Commenced evasion tactics and withdrew to westward. Screws, pingers
and depth charges until 0920 at which time came up to 120 feet. None
of these maneuvers too uncomfortable at deep submergence. (A
total of 12 explosive of the small ones attributed to explosion in
target ship).
1009 At 63 feet completed a sweep in low power; nothing in sight and
surface of water quite rough. Had just found the top of one ship in
line with CORREGIDOR, at least 8 miles away, when we received the

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SECRET
1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 15, 1942 (Continued)
first of a string of 6 depth bombs close aboard. They could only have
from a plane. They were not too heavy but he didn't miss us far
so I returned to 200 feet.
1037 High speed screws were heard from direction of CORREGIDOR (078° T). He
came up starboard side and when he got to 50° relative I turned 50°
towards him and passed under his stern. I then set course to pass 4
miles southwest of 15 fathom spot which is due west of CORREGIDOR. On
the rapid descent after the attack we lost the after trim pump.
Flood and we did not succeed in adjusting trim until 1503. TRIM Pump
had quit on the preceding and was disassembled for overhaul. DRAIN
Pump only delivers 9 gals/min against 150 ft. head (rated delivery
35 gals/min against 155 lbs/in²) and this scarcely kept up with the
bilge water. At 1523 at 63 feet many white caps decided to change to
180° to get in the apparent traffic lane for CORREGIDOR channel entrance
by sunset. Heard pingers all afternoon on various bearings but could
not see ships. At 1953 at periscope depth (36 minutes before end of
twilight) received 4 bombs close aboard. No ships in sight. Believe
it could only be a plane. Went to 200 feet until 2023 pingers and
screws were getting quite numerous.
2239 Four depth charges, missed badly.
2301 Two depth charges, ditto.
2321 Lost them all except one persistent pinger who kept astern as
we retired to north and west. Mileage for day by D.R. 74.7.

June 16, 1942 Off MANIL...
0105 Surfaced on 310° T. with pinger astern, CORREGIDOR bearing 091° T, 35
miles. Lots of lightning but otherwise poor visibility. Decided to
try same area tomorrow, only diving 5 miles to seaward of what we had
estimated to be the outer patrol radius of the A/S vessels.
0454 Dove on course 095° T, with CORREGIDOR bearing 076° T, 37 miles.
0600 Sea appeared ideal; short chop with lots of whitecaps but in the light
of what happened twice on yesterday decided to run at 120 feet with half-
hourly observations.
1033 Pinger very weak on 242° T, coming up starboard quarter.
1101 Sighted what was thought to be DD on 192° T and went to Battle Stations
and collision course (102° T). At
11-08-10 Ship bore 195° T, 15° P, course 030°, 6000 yards. At
11-11-25 Ship bore 196° T, same course, 5000 yards. Realized that target
was only submarine then decided I'd better get out of here. He was
pinging very persistently but I thought I fooled him. He was
getting away from him at periscope depth. Turned left with full
rudder and 2/3 speed to put him astern.
11-14-40 Target stopped.
11-16-35 Steady on 015°.
11-17-10 Pinger is on us (from dead astern). At this time bearing 195°,
20° P, course 035°, 2300 yards.
11-19-25 Target is still heading this way. Left full rudder at
standard speed.
11-21-00 Steady on 345°, slowed to 1/3.
11-21-25 Screws bore 190° T. Think I've fooled him.
11-22-15 He stopped pinging. Just as I was about to run up the periscope for

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SECRET

1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 16, 1942 (Continued)
    a look, he started dropping the worst salvo received this patrol -
    6 charges close aboard. Maximum depth gauge went to 10 feet.
    Broke one emergency light in engine room which was mounted on rubber,
    knocked a hand off a clock, kicked out some drawers, and kicked
    up a little cork dust but otherwise no damage known. Afterwards
    found starboard antenna lead-in parted.
1130 One depth charge, not far away. At 200 feet he took this chaser by
    tail. Set course to southwest to surface about 10 miles off C.B.A. at
    dusk.
2022 Surfaced with C.B.A. bearing 140°, 10.8 miles. Mileage by r.p.m.
    143.5.

June 17, 1942 APO B. LAST PASS
    Steered so as to give land a ten mile berth.
0529 Dived on course 143° T. with APO IS. Light bearing 271° T, 19 miles.
2011 Surfaced. Mileage by r.p.m. 166.9; by pit log 158.3.

June 18, 1942 West Coast of PANAY and NORTHERN SULU SEA
    Much rain in midwatch.
0539 Dived with TUBIGAN PT. bearing 090° T, 10.8 miles, course south.
1520 C/c to southeast in order stay within 10 miles N.SO PT. until dusk
    in order intercept any ILOILO traffic.
1720 C/c to west.
1905 Sighted smoke bearing 190° T. and headed for it at 6 knots. Went to
    Battle Stations. Sea is flat.
1912 Picked up a second column of smoke just to right of first ship.
    Continued at 6 knots except for 3 periscope exposures until 1950
    when on estimating target course as 006° changed to 186°. There is
    lightning over Southern PANAY and rain is coming our way in gathering
    darkness. Ships continued to smoke heavily and are obviously making
    low speed.
19-56-10 Leading ship bearing 196° T; 10000 yards; small starboard angle on
    bow.
20-01-55 Sound picked up target on correct bearing.
20-02-15 Leading ship bearing 204°.8 T; 10° to 15° S, 7000 yards.
20-04-40 bearing 208°.4, 6000 yards. Ships are not large and are slow.
20-05-15 Right full rudder, port ahead standard to take firing course.
20-06-25 Bearing 212° T.
20-06-45 All ahead standard.
20-07-20 All ahead one-third.
20-07-40 Bearing 214°.5.
20-08-30 Steady on 270° T, bearing 202°.1 T. This bearing did not check
    in properly but could find no other target. Believed it might be the
    second ship which had not been seen for some time. There is supposed
    to be a moon but has not appeared. Sound reports rain topside. I
    can't see any target so at 20-09-25 ordered 120 feet and had no
    trouble tracking target up port bow by sound. Decided to throw 2
    fish with small heel at target. Set-up appears excellent. Target
    making 54 r.p.m. Fired torpedoes at 20-20-00 and 20-20-10. No hits.
20-20-20 Left full rudder to 180° T.
20-21-15 Target speed up to 60 r.p.m. Tracked target to northward by

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SECRET
1. NARRATIVE (Continued)
June 18, 1942 (Continued)
sound.
2043 Decided to pursue targets to see what they looked like before plan-
ning additional measures so changed course to north.
2100 Surfaced in rain squall with NOG.S IS. Light 027° T, 15.8 miles and
went at full speed on 2 main engines. Heavy rain and violent
lightning to northward. No moon. Could not see 500 yards in direc-
tion of advance of ships. When lightning struck it was like daylight
but lookouts would be blinded until next flash. Decided to let these
two go on in view of (1) weather with attendant navigational
difficulties in neighborhood SO.BREN.O rocks, C.MEN BANK, SULTAN BANK,
SECO IS. (2) Questionable value of ships which smoked so heavily and
made such little speed. (3) Paucity of torpedoes and likelihood of
encountering more valuable objects of attention as we proceeded south-
ward. (4) Lack of success on previous night pursuit in similar weather.
(June 9 in BALABAC STRAIT).
2112 c/c to 190°.
2345 c/c to 206°. Mileage for day by pit log 154.6; by r.p.m. 152.9.

June 19, 1942 SULU SEA
0548 Dived.
1920 Sunset.
1935 Surfaced. Mileage for day by pit log 168.6; by r.p.m. 167.2.

June 20, 1942 SULU SEA and SIBUTU PASSAGE
0615 Dived with PEARL BANK bearing 203° T, 37 miles.
1924 Surfaced with PEARL BANK 224°, 9 miles. Mileage for day by pit log
154.9; by r.p.m. 155.9.

June 21, 1942 SIBUTU PASSAGE and CELEBES SEA
0630 Cleared SIBUTU PASSAGE and set course 258° to head for TARAKAN in
order to hunt traffic between that port and SIBUTU Channel or SIBUTU
or DAVAO.
0630 Dived with SALVAG IS. 009°, 28 miles.
1918 Surfaced with SALVAG IS. 037°, 67 miles and proceeded on 172° at best
sustained speed in order operate off TG. MANGKALIHAT on 22nd.
Mileage by pit log 175.1, by r.p.m. 174.5

June 22, 1942 CELEBES SEA and MAKASSAR STRAIT.
0629 Dived on 255° T. with TG. MANGKALIHAT 257°, 32 miles.
1200 c/c to 270° T.
1538 TG. MANGKALIHAT 12 miles distant channel to 211° T. to head for
BALIKPAPAN.
1948 Surfaced with TG. MANGKALIHAT 309°, 14 miles and proceeded towards
BALIKPAPAN in order sound by submerged on expected trade route.
Mileage by pit log for day 183.7; by r.p.m. 186.4.

June 23, 1942 MAKASSAR STRAIT
0150 Moonset.
0602 Dived in heavy rain with MOERA BAJOR Lightship 256°, 20 miles,
course 198° T.
0728 c/c to 225° T. to close the land and pass 5 miles off the KUTAI
river delta.

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SECRET

1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 23, 1942 (Continued)
1250 Sighted smoke bearing 300° T and c/c to 305°.
1256 Smoke now bears 308° T. Smoke is black and is generated in rapid
     puffs as from diesel engines. Resumed 225°.
1341 Smoke again in sight, bearing 307° T.
1404 Bearing 278°. Can make out tops of 2 stick masts and one funnel.
     Smoke continually puffs black. Can also hear sound gear, but cannot
     definitely fix it on this ship. Estimated course 205°; no approach
     possible.
1952 Surfaced with MUARA PEGAH LIGHTSHIP 260°, 21 miles. Proceeded towards
     CAPE WILLIAM on 150° T.
2241 Sighted ship on starboard beam and c/c to 240°. Battle Stations.
2254 Identified ship as 2-masted sailing schooner. Secured from Battle
     Stations and resumed course. Mileage by rpm for day 138.2, by pit
     log 147.2.

June 24, 1942 MAKASSAR STRAIT
0235 Moonset.
0553 Lieut. Holden, OOD, sighted light of relatively high intensity close
     aboard on starboard beam. He dived the ship, thinking it possibly a
     small patrol vessel. I turned to head in the direction reported but
     could find nothing in periscope or in sound gear.
0610 Resumed 150° T.
0848 With CAPE WILLIAM 15 miles, 038° T c/c to 180° T. To run south at
     about 5 miles off shore. Numerous sailing vintas all day and all
     night.
1935 Surfaced with CAPE MANDAR 132°, 20 miles.
2201 Battle Stations.
2205 Secured. Ship is sailing vinta. Mileage by pit log 150.1; by r.p.m.
     147.2

June 25, 1942 MAKASSAR STRAIT; off MAKASSAR CITY
0330 Moonset.
0631 Dived off Western Approaches MAKASSAR with PULO LANGKAI 102° 9 miles,
     course south. Numerous vintas in sight all day and all night.
1949 Surfaced off southwestern approaches and proceeded on 121° to recon-
     noiter Southern Approaches.
2143 With DAYANG DAYANGAN 022° 15 miles c/c to 185° and proceeded to round
     De BRIL Bank and head for LOMBOK. Mileage by pit log 146.3.

June 26, 1942 FLORES SEA en route LOMBOK STRAIT
0317 Dived, heading for ship 165° T.
0319 Battle Stations.
0350 Identified ship as small sloop, mainsail and jib. Secured from
     Battle Stations.
0355 Surfaced.
0435 Moonset.
0724 Dived with BANKO BANGKOANG 121° T, 15 miles, course 234°.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

1. NARRATIVE (Continued)

June 26, 1942 (Continued)
1845 Surfaced.
1903 Sunset.
1931 Dived on course 269° T to head for what was thought to be 2 or 3
     ships about 8 miles distant.
1933 Battle Stations.
2007 Decided that ships had been mountain tops in KANGEAN group lifted
     in sunset mirage.
2010 Surfaced and resumed course 234° for LOMBOK. Mileage by pit log
     162.7; by r.p.m. 166.1

June 27, 1942 LOMBOK - BADUNG STRAITS en route FREMANTLE
0540 Moonset.
0639 Dived in LOMBOK STRAIT with LEMBONGAN IS. Light bearing 250°.5 T,
     17.5 miles. Steered to reconnoitre SANUR Roads and BENOA via
     BADUNG Strait.
1200 Set clocks back to Zone -8.
1856 Surfaced with LEMBONGAN bearing 022°, 20.5 miles. Mileage by pit log
     180.8; by r.p.m. 199.0

June 28, 1942 En route FREMANTLE
0600 Moonset
0643 Sunrise.
1809 Sunset and moonrise. Mileage by pit log 307.7; by r.p.m. 342.4.

June 29, 1942 En route FREMANTLE
0658 Sunrise.
1800 Sunset.
1900 Moonrise. Mileage by pit log 364.5; by r.p.m. 378.8.

June 30, 1942 En route FREMANTLE
Mileage by pit log 331.7; by r.p.m. 374.5

July 1, 1942 En route FREMANTLE
Mileage by pit log 312.0.

July 2, 1942 En route FREMANTLE
0442 Sighted escort vessel (USS ISABEL).
0452 Fell in astern of ISABEL to enter Searched Channel.

                                                  F. B. WARDER,
                                                  Lieutenant Commander,
                                                  U.S. Navy,
                                                  Commanding.

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2. WEATHER

May 12 to May 15, 1942 Heavy weather with wind and sea from northwest and
north, with much rain, while bound north from FREMANTLE slowed down our
trip to KOEPANG, where we arrived on May 19, 1942.

June 9 to June 18, 1942. From north of TABLAS up to CAPONES and down to
south of PANAY most variable weather with many rain squalls, occasional
high winds and high seas, occasional flat calms and frequent electrical
storms of violent character.

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4. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

May 12 to June 16, 1942
C.S.Bu. Light only on burning MANILA-SUBIC Area. No other lights burning.
No trip north via TIDOR, MOLUCCAS, CELEBES, SULU, TABLAS, VERDE ISLAND.
No great trouble navigation VERDE NORTH PASS in midwatch of moonless, star-
less night but sky was strongly luminous and land masses and islands stood
out at 12-13 miles. Dived in middle of pass for patrol vessel encountered
bows on. If I were doing this again would do it in daytime, submerged, to
minimize danger of detection.

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5. DESCRIPTION OF ENEMY SHIPS SIGHTED

May 20, 1942 at 1937 in OMBAL passage one Freighter of 5000 tons, 400 feet
length, 90 ft. masthead height (2 masts, 1 stack, cargo handling booms, deep
well deck forward, steep bridge island), made 200 rpm on single screw subse-
quent to seeing us; at least one gun forward of about 3", (judging by amount
of flash and subsequent explosion), carries depth charges. Course 055°, speed
9. Sighted at about 5 miles. Resembles NANYO MARU.

May 23, 1942 at 1738 in BANDA SEA one Freighter of 7000 tons, 400 feet length,
100 feet masthead height (2 masts, 1 stack, masts are twin support type
[UNCLEAR: (I)] ), flaring clipper bow, counter type stern, rpm variously reported from
120 to 220, large single screw; considerable cabin space; crew wears white;
well painted and well kept. One gun mount forward and one aft (this one not
seen shooting); carries depth charges. Fires salvo of 3. Did not zig for a
period of at least 25 minutes in hour preceding sunset. En route AMBON to
DILLI; course 212°, speed 8.5 to 11.0. Resembles PALAO MARU (Booth No. 30).

May 24, 1942 at 0605 same ship as above. He did not zig prior to attack at
0636. He had depth charges over us at 0643. He detected us at 0637. This
MARU leads a charmed life. Same course as preceding day; speed check 9.5 kts.

May 31, 1942 at 1125 off STROOEN KAAP large Freighter-Transport of about
8000 tons, in 1° 33' N 120° 45'E. 450 foot length, 100 foot masthead height,
single stack, large bridge island, foremast of twin support type [UNCLEAR: ( )],
mainmast stick type with two yards near top; seaplanes carried on forecastle,
stern and abaft bridge island; slightly flaring clipper bow; square cruiser
stern; 140 rpm. Needs a paint job. Zigging between courses 205° and 253°,
speed checks 8.5 to 11.0. Range at first sighting 14000 yards, 70° angle on
bow. Succeeded in closing to 4200 yards but did not attack due reasons
stated in NARRATIVE.

June 2, 1942 at 2338 bearing 118°, 4 miles from DUMALI POINT LIGHT (MINDORO)
what was thought to be tug but which later developed as freighter of about
5000 tons, 400 feet length, two stick masts, single stack, well decks fore and
aft, central bridge island, straight bow, low in water, painted grey, making
72 rpm, smoking heavily, and possessing high intensity searchlight. First
sighted too close aboard for attack and so dived ship. Then he passed us we
surfaced and pursued. While taking position ahead of him at 0349 on June
3 he began sweep with searchlight and changed course towards us. We dived
and attempted sound approach unsuccessfully. We think we were revealed by
violent lightning which was so located as to silhouette us and keep our
lookouts more or less blinded. For most of the period of pursuit Lieut.
Comdr. Stephan was the only person on the bridge who could see this ship.
Between DUMALI and QUINIDIAGAN (See Chart USC&GS 4714) this freighter made
8.2 knots on course 180° (from 0019 to 0257). At 0351 he was observed to
come left to 150° (which would head for southern TABLAS) and was steering
various courses to the south and east after we submerged the second time and
attempted both sound and periscope approach.

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5. DESCRIPTION OF ENEMY SHIPS SIGHTED (Continued)

June 9, 1942 At 1432 2 small passenger freighters bearing about 280°, 2 miles
from CORCUERA PT. Light on SIMARA IS. First one of about 3000 tons, 300 ft.
length, 90 ft. masthead with 2 stick masts and one stack; well deck forward
with 2 cargo handling booms. Two passenger decks from bridge all the way aft.
JAP ensign painted on side under bridge. Needed coat of paint. Second one of
about 2000 tons, in tow of first one at 500 yards with one mast, well deck
forward, one stack and passenger quarters all the way aft. Nondescript paint
job. Dirty. Looked like about a 3rd rate inter-island ship. Ships were
making 10 knots on course 324°. First sighted at 16000 yards and 70° port
angle. By dint of high speed for one hour was able to close range to 6100
yards but could not gain favorable attack position.

June 10, 1942 At 0158 in most narrow portion VERDE ISLAND NORTH PASS one ship
on course east. We dived but we were unable to pick ship
at about 6000 yards
up in periscope. He went down our port side, making 132 rpm and passed very
close aboard, using sound gear. I think it was a destroyer on a routine sweep
making 11 knots. The circumstances were not propitious for attack and none
was attempted. To insure sufficient arming range I would have had to
maneuver the ship and in that location with the June current and the uncer-
tainty as to our exact position I did not wish to stray off the course line.

June 10, 1942 At 0639 a small freighter of about 2000 tons in VERDE ISLAND
NORTH PASS, riding down by the stern and empty, 300 feet long, two stick
masts (mainmast higher than foremast) and single stack painted black with
white band on which were the numbers "679" and a Japanese character. Estimated
height of mainmast 110 feet. Small well decks fore and aft and small cabin
space. Endeavored to get sound range in order check masthead height but was
not successful. Bow was straight, stern was counter type; topside paint was
poor; bottom paint was good. Three people were leaning over starboard deck
rail. Attack position attained but no attack delivered account (1) Loss of
depth control dipping periscope until angle on bow was 160° S (2) Did not
feel that target was worth a torpedo unless I could be sure of getting
him (3) Strong suspicion that I did not have sufficient range for torpedo to
arm (4) General undesirability of being detected in VERDE ISLAND NORTH PASS
unless target was really a worthy one.

June 11, 1942 At 2050 Then lying to on surface with CAPONES IS. Light bearing
016°.5, 6.9 miles was fully illuminated by searchlight bearing about 350°
at about 1500 yards.
Chief Quartermaster CASLER thought ship to be destroyer at about 1500 yards.
I didn't look at him. First depth charge was received at 2054. Radioman
ECKBERG thinks from sound of propeller that ship might be minelayer which
patrolled this area on following day and which we unsuccessfully attacked.

June 12, 1942 Off CAPONES IS. Light at 1031 sighted ship 14° 52' N 120°
00'.5 E, course 135°, speed about 11.5 knots. Thought ship to be small with
range at first sighting about 10000 yards, 80° starboard angle, raining,
ship well inshore. Closed to 6000 yards by running at high speed at which
time abandoned approach. In limited visibility ship up as combination
freighter-tanker of about 2000 tons, 300 foot length, 100 ft. masthead
height, gun forward and long, bow well deck forward. Later believed to be
minelayer attacked during afternoon of same date.

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SECRET
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

5. DESCRIPTION OF ENEMY SHIPS SIGHTED (Continued)

June 12, 1942 Off CAPONES at 1357 sighted ship in 14° 44' N, 119° 59' E
on northwesterly course. Closed at high speed and attacked unsuccessfully
at 1200 yards, at 1450. Now believe ship to be same one as sighted this
morning and possibly same one as illuminated us on night of June 11th.
Ship is minelayer (or depth charge vessel) of about 2000 tons, 300 feet long,
100 ft. masthead with 2 stick masts and one twin support mast. Bow is
conservative clipper type. A gun is mounted well forward, as is the foremast
which is just abaft gun. Then follows a long well deck of about 1/3 the
length of the vessel. At the after end of this there is a twin support
mast and 2 cargo handling booms. Then a bridge and high bridge island with
a single stack. Ship is a motor vessel. Then a mainmast, abaft of which
there is a long, downwards sloping deck on which there are four tracks. The
two middle tracks appeared empty. Large, cylindrical objects were in port and
starboard tracks, of about the size of oil barrels. There were sixteen of
these in the starboard track and about an equal number in the port track.
Three men were working back here and seven were at the gun at about the time
our torpedoes should have crossed. Only 2 depth charges were dropped on this
party (3 the night before). They may have been pitched out of Y guns in the
waist.

June 13, 1942 Off MANILA at 0747 Merchantman 14° 21' N, 120° 22' E. course
070° speed 10, on bow 70° S, 8 miles. Two stick masts, 350 feet long,
4000 tons, 100 ft. masthead. He entered channel between old points "A" and
"B" and proceeded into MANILA.
At 0830 Observed station vessel circling slowly vicinity 14° 18' N,
120° 31'.5 E. Small ship of 1 stick mast, one stack, chopped off high stern,
about 150 ft. long, 500 tons, 60 ft. masthead.
At 0913 sighted first two of what developed to be four freighters
coming in from westward to MANILA, all well-laden; tonnages 7000 to 3000;
all single stacks, 2 stick masts (2 each); lengths 450 to 350 feet; well decks
fore and aft; joined by DD of AKIKAZE class before approaching entrance.
Latter came up from south west. Identification not positive. Obtained
favorable attack position but due to proximity of track and condition of
current, attempted to open and fire stern tubes by sound from 120 feet.
Sound could not pick out targets until they had got by. Attempted attack
in 14° 18' N; 120° 26' E (CORREGIDOR bearing 059°, 9.7 miles).
At 1015 sighted ship in 14° 25' N, 120° 19' E, bearing 305° T, 16000
yards, course 110°. Obtained favorable firing position but let ship go by
as considered him too small to warrant disclosure of presence in what
appeared to be most desirable area. Estimated tonnage 1500, 250 ft. long,
1 gun forward, two stick masts, 1 stack.
At 1327 Sighted ship close under LUZON PT. on course 300° T, speed 12,
7 miles distant, 90° port. Looked as though it might be our minelayer of
yesterday. Disappeared to northeast before more accurate identification
was possible.
At 1652 one DD of 2 funnels and 2 stick masts but no well deck forward
(Believe to be AKAGI type but identification not positive) followed by
DD of about 5000 tons, 2 stick masts, 1 stack, guns fore and aft; stood
out channel from MANILA; speed 14, course 296. Attacked each at 1500 yards.
DD well painted (dark grey); gun covers on; an officer in white shorts and
white shirt walking up and down on forecastle.

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5. DESCRIPTION OF ENEMY SHIPS SIGHTED (Continued)

June 14, 1942 off MANILA at 0624 MANU 14° 12' N 120° 13' E bearing 173°, 8
miles, large port angle on bow heading up towards channel entrance, course
about 060° T, speed 10, 2 masts, 1 stack, probably 4000 tons, 350 feet long.
A total of 4 MARUs developed in this vicinity by 0650. I continued to close
the channel entrance on course 095° T. I was never able to get sufficiently
close to make out any details on these people prior to their entry.
0707 Sighted what was first thought to be DD in 14° 23' N 120° 21' E,
bearing 073° T, 8 miles from us together with one other vessel carrying out
patrol on various courses to north and west of channel entrance. Latter was
never identified, now thought to be sub-chaser. First ship developed to be
a torpedo boat similar to OTORI or minelayer similar to YAEYAMA (Tripod mast,
one stack, one gun forward). I continued on course 098° for channel entrance.
1249 Southbound MARU in 14° 16' N, 120° 33' E, bearing 059° T, 9 miles
from me, too close in shore for approach or better identification. He appar-
ently stood straight out channel to southward.
1521 In 14° 19' N, 120° 27' E, destroyer 8000 yards bearing north from
us, angle on bow 85° Port, making high speed (230 rpm). 2 stacks, 2 stick
masts, well deck forward. Believe to be AKIKAZE type but identification not
positive. He evidently had turned west as soon as he cleared Point "B"
of CORREGIDOR Channel as our DDs used to do. This was a sound contact. At
1538 he disappeared on bearing 255° T, still zigging at high speed.
1538 in 14° 15' N, 120° 24' E, bearing 102° T, 5000 yards from us a small
oil barge of low freeboard about 100 ft. long and 600 tons and a small
freighter of about 2000 tons, 250 ft. length, 2 stick masts, 1 stack, guns
fore and aft; standing to south from CORREGIDOR Channel at about 10 knots.
Did not consider either worth a shot under existing circumstances as I was
expecting DD which just stood out to bring in large convoy.
1607 in 14° 20'.5 N, 120° 20'.5 E, bearing 032°, 6 miles from me a
NATORI type CL, course westerly, catapult empty. Immediately went to collision
course at high speed but CL proceeded to northwest at 13 to 17 knots and range
was never lower than 11000 yards.
1646 in 14° 20' N, 120° 17' E, bearing 045° T, 5 miles from us a small
freighter on course 315°, angle on bow 90° port. He evidently followed
NATORI out and turned out from channel at point "B". No chance for attack.
1805 a ship which at 1821 developed to be a subchaser or motor torpedo
boat in 14° 10' N, 120° 18' E, working to north and east from direction of
CABRA IS., using echo ranging device. He passed at minimum range of 3500
yards but did not detect us.
1824 a Torpedo Boat similar to OTORI or Minesweeper similar to No.
10; in 14° 10' N, 120° 25' E; bearing 147°, 8 miles from us, working with
ship mentioned above. He passed at minimum range of 8000 yards without
detecting us.
1934 a large MARU of about 7000 tons, 450 feet long, 2 stick masts,
1 stack, coming out from MANILA, zigging, 12.5 knots. Closed for attack and
on pre-firing observation at 2550 yards (100 ft. masthead) found that
target had zigged away giving me very unfavorable track angle, so did not
shoot. Last observed on course 220°.

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5. DESCRIPTION OF ENEMY SHIPS SIGHTED (Continued)

June 15, 1942 off MANILA. At 0612 on coming to periscope depth found DD
close aboard bearing 106°.5 T, 30° P, 480 yards (3° arc for 75 ft. masthead
height) in 14° 15' N, 120° 23' E. We were on course 080° T and ship passed
too close to shoot, bearing 30° to have been NASHI type but identification
not positive. Had not picked up his screws until 0609. Sea was flat calm;
morning twilight. He continued to northwestward at about 10 knots.
At 0644 Freighter in lat. 14° 13' N, Long. 120° 24' E, bearing 128°.5, 5
miles from us, angle on bow 30° S. Making 100 rpm, speed check 10 knots,
course west, coming out of MANILA. Two stick masts and one stack central
bridge island, 375 feet long, 4500 tons, high bridge, well decks fore and aft,
windsail rigged, guns mounted fore and aft. Attacked successfully at 1700
yards and believe he sank.

June 16, 1942 off MANILA, at 1102 Subchaser similar to JUNE 1939, p. 305,
SC 51-53 in 14° 10' N, 120° 11' E, bearing 192°, 5 miles from us. First
thought he was a DD and closed to attack. This was ill-advised. He had a
good pinger and turned the tables on us. Seven depth charges.

June 18, 1942 Southwest of PANAY. At 1905 in about 10° 02' N, 121° 49' E.
two smokes; bearing 190° T, 10 to 12 miles from us. Never did make out
second ship well but prior to attacking first ship estimated him to be
about 2500 tons, 350 feet long. Both smoked heavily and continuously.
Speed slow, about 6.5 knots, 54 rpm. Speeded up to 60 rpm after firing.
Reciprocating engines. Course 006° T.

June 23, 1942. Northeast of BALIK-PAPAN. At 1341 when in 0°50' S,
117° 46' E, sighted smoke bearing 307° T which developed to be a motor
driven (black smoke puffing continuously) ship of single funnel and 2
stick masts, about course 205°, speed 12.5. Hull was never visible. The
funnel about mid-way between the masts. Continued on 225° to intercept
his track line but never obtained position closer than 12000 yards. Sound
gear working and believe him to be a patrol vessel of sorts plying back
and forth about on the 10-fathom curve, off KUTEI River delta.

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6. DESCRIPTION OF ALL AIRCRAFT SIGHTED

May 13, 1942 1509 One PBY in 20° 24' S, 113° 13' E headed for coast at
range of about 3 miles. We dived and fired 2 yellow smokes.

June 12, 1942 0630 One seaplane (biplane with central pontoon) off
SUESTE Point.
1653 Plane of similar description zoomed periscope off
SUESTE Point.

June 14, 1942 0650 Plane of similar description over 4 MARUs standing in to
CORREGIDOR Channel.
1210 Plane of similar description flying out from CORREGIDOR
on southwesterly course.
1630 Plane of similar description bearing 300° T, course north-
easterly, 1500 feet flying towards CL which was between us and HORNOS Point.
1646 Similar plane over CL at about 4000 feet.

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7. PARTICULARS OF ATTACKS

May 20, 1942. OBAI Passage 8° 37' S; 124° 45' E, 5000 ton armed freighter,
2 torpedoes fired and missed; details as follows:

| | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Tube number | 3 | 4 |
| Time (LZT) | 20-01-45 | 20-02-43 |
| Firing range | 1000 * | 670 * |
| Point of aim | Stem | Stern |
| Track Angle | 104° S # | 118° S # |
| Bearings | 004° | 010° |
| Gyro angle | 016° $ | 022° $ |
| Depth setting | 6 | 6 |
| Enemy speed | 9 | 5 |

* Range on machine. Actual range more nearly 2000 yards.
# As set on machine. This value believed badly in error. A re-study of
data indicates track angles at firing should have been about 156° and 162°.
$ More nearly correct gyro angles would have been 011° and 014°.5

These two misses are directly attributable to poor estimation of target angle
by myself; about 5 to 10 minutes prior to firing when I persisted in a value
of 90° S over three observations, when actually I must have been getting well
abaft his beam. This resulted in a generated range of 670 yards for the
second torpedo, which should have been more nearly 2000 yards. His large well
deck forward and high steep bridge island made target angle observation very
difficult. Of course he may have been zigging.
When I saw the first torpedo running ahead of the target I directed that the
speed be cut down. They cut it from 9 to 5 and I put a bearing of the stern
in the machine for the second shot.
On surfacing after firing I checked his course quite accurately at 055° T,
instead of 099°.
Attack was delivered on the surface, using TDC with generated bearing, for
firing immediately after input of a true bearing from pelorus.
Torpedoes ran hot, straight and normal but I believe both missed ahead. I
dived before the second torpedo crossed his track; surfaced 9 minutes later
and overtook him on the surface, keeping outside 6000 yards. Then about 2
points forward of his starboard beam he opened fire with a bow gun and we
dived and abandoned the attack, as we could not see target through periscope
(Moon between "New" and "First Quarter," behind clouds, one hour before
setting, sky 50% nimbus clouds).

May 22, 1942. BANDA SEA; 4° 38' S; 127° 36' E, 7000 ton armed freighter; 4
torpedoes fired without damaging freighter; details as follows:

| | 1 | 3 | 4 | 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tube number | 1 | 3 | 4 | 2 |
| Time LZT | 18-15-40 | 18-15-50 | 18-16-00 | 18-17-35 |
| Firing range * | 1000 | 1000 | 1000 | 770 |
| Point of aim | Middle | Bow | Stern | 1/4 length |
| | | | | ahead bow |
| Track angle | 91° S | 96° S | 97° S | 84° S |
| Bearing | 354° | 357° | 359-1/2° | 031° |
| Gyro angle | 006° | 011° | 012° | 050° |

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7. PARTICULARS OF ATTACKS (Continued)

May 22, 1942 (Continued)

| Tube number     | 1   | 3   | 4         | 2   |
| :| :-- | :-- | :| :-- |
| Depth setting   | 10  | 10  | 10        | 10  |
| Enemy speed     | 8   | 8   | 8         | 8   |
| Sound reported  | Ran | Ran | Didn't run| Ran |
| Target course   | 195 | 195 | 195       | 240 |

* As set on machine. More nearly correct values 700 to 570 yards.

Firing was by periscope, white light method. I only saw one torpedo wake;
it ran under control and I believe it was the one aimed at the bow. Range
just after firing 3rd fish was 3° of arc (570 yards). Then the one wake
observed crossed under target counter we all heard a noise like that of a
detonator exploding. We threw another set-up in the machine and fired the
fourth fish one-quarter length ahead of the bow just after the target started
zigging towards us. Generated bearing had checked with observed bearing all
the way down the approach and we felt that the attack was a sure thing. I
used 90 feet masthead height which was probably not enough. 100 feet would
have placed him out further and would have resulted in a slightly higher
speed determination during the approach.

May 24, 1942 BANDA SEA; 6° 19' S, 126° 32' E, same ship as above; 1 torpedo
fired without damaging freighter; details as follows:

| Tube number     | 6         |
| :| :|
| Time LZT        | 06-36-11  |
| Firing range (Used 100' masthead) | 1650 |
| Point of aim    | Stack     |
| Track angle     | 95° 45' Port |
| Bearing         | 186°      |
| Gyro angle      | 174° 15'  |
| Depth setting   | 8 ft.     |
| Speed           | 9.5       |
| Enemy course    | 210°      |

Torpedo ran and appeared to cross just ahead of bow. It should have hit.
We were not detected until torpedo had crossed his track. This was another
attack in cold blood with observed bearings checking with generated.

June 12, 1942 off SUBIC Bay in 14° 49' N, 119° 57' E. 2000 ton minelayer;
3 torpedoes fired without damage to target. Fired periscope spread, white
light method. Sound reported all torpedoes running. I saw no wakes
although I watched target for fully 4 minutes after firing. Seas were high
and torpedo performance was questionable. Depth setting 8 feet. Own
ship course 280°, own speed 2.8; target course 001°, target speed 12.
Details as follows:

(See next page)

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DECLASSIFIED
7. PARTICULARS OF ATTACKS (Continued)

|             | 1        | 3        | 4        |
| :| :------- | :------- | :------- |
| Tube number |          |          |          |
| Firing time | 14-49-50 | 14-50-00 | 14-50-10 |
| Gyro angles | 037      | 042      | 041      |
| Track angles| 136 S    | 141 S    | 140 S    |
| Range       | 1250     | 1250     | 1300     |
| Bearing     | 020      | 025      | 024      |
| Point of aim| OT       | Bow      | Stern    |

I had intended to fire with much small gyro angle and more favorable
tracks but when periscope was raised for pre-firing observation found gen-
erated bearing to be lagging actual bearing by about 14°. Range, bearing
and target angle all showed an increase of speed with a zig to the right;
new set-up was thrown in machine and firing commenced. Attribute misses to
control errors and rough seas, with unfavorable track angle.

June 13, 1942 off CORREGIDOR, one DD of AMAGIRI type (identification not
positive) followed by a MARU of about 5000 tons. Missed each with two
torpedoes except that Lieut. Syverson in After Torpedo Room and After
Torpedo Room reported one explosion which may have been on DD or
MARU (See below). Fired divergent spread; white light method, on observed
bearing at periscope depth. Depth settings 6 feet. Latitude 14° 19' N,
120° 19' E. Sound reported all torpedoes running and I saw their smoke. I
also saw one torpedo explode on far side of DD throwing a column of water
up between his stacks to a height well above them and a width equal to
the distance between stack, or better. There was no indication on DD that
they were aware of our presence until this explosion took place, when
activity became tremendous. This explosion was not audible in the subma-
rin (except see above). I call this explosion just 58 seconds after first
torpedo was fired. The DD was not damaged. Details of firing as follows:

|             | Target    | DESTROYER        | MERCHANTMAN      |
| :| :| :| :|
| Own course 205° |           |                  |                  |
| Own speed 2.4 |           |                  |                  |
| Target course 296° |           |                  |                  |
| Target speed 14 |           |                  |                  |
|             |           | 5        | 6        | 7        | 8        |
| Times of firing | 17-22-00  | 17-22-00 | 17-22-10 | 17-22-40 | 17-22-47 |
| Tubes       | 5         | 5        | 6        | 7        | 8        |
| Gyro angles | 157       | 157      | 158.5    | 205      | 203      |
| Bearings    | 175       | 175      | 177      | 218      | 216      |
| Points of aim | Stern     | Stern    | Stern    | Stern    | Stern    |
| Track angle | 114P      | 114P     | 112.5P   | 66P      | 68P      |
| Range       | 1500      | 1500     | 1500     | 1500     | 1450     |

I watch the torpedoes running for the DD (see above) but only observed
smoke half way down to MARU when I went to Depth Charge Quarters. There
is a possibility that latter was damaged. See above (Lieut. Syverson)
and see Narrative regarding post depth charge observations.

June 15, 1942 off CORREGIDOR Attacked freighter of 4500 tons and obtained
one or two hits (see below). Own course 218°, own speed 2.8; target
course 267°, target speed 10, depth settings 6 feet. Applied divergent
spread with periscope, white light method. Details of firing as follows:

(see next page)

— page 160 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

7. PARTICULARS OF ATTACKS (Continued)

June 15, 1942 (Continued)

Firing time           07-01-20      07-01-30      07-01-42
Point of aim          AFT           Bow           Stern
Tube number           1             3             4
Bearing (rel.)        323           327           325
Gyro angles           335           339           337
Track angles          106S          110S          108S
Range                 1700          1700          1700

All torpedoes ran. Ship broached to 50 feet and I lowered periscope.
Diving Officer flooded Negative and we caught the ship at 120 feet. One
violent explosion at 07-02-40; at which time we vacated Conning Tower
and rigged for depth charge. I had not observed the DD which was in the
neighborhood since beginning the approach. A number of the officers and
men insist on a second explosion as we were leaving the Conning Tower.
I did not hear it, or if I did I checked it off as the first depth
charge. The ship's propellers stopped after the explosion and there
followed a series of small explosions, some audible in ship and some only
in sound receiver, until 0728.

June 18, 1942 South-west of PANAY. In about 9° 56' N, 121° 48' E,
attacked 2500 ton freighter; night sound attack at 120 feet. Longitudinal
spread. Fired first on generated sound bearing immediately after input
and locked machine for firing on same gyro angle. Own course 270°, own
speed 2.4, target course 006°, target speed 6.5. Depth settings 6 ft.
Details as follows:

Firing times          20-20-00      20-20-10
Tube number           1             4
Point of aim          Stem          50 yards abaft stem
Gyro angle *          345°          345°
Track angle *         69° S         69° S
Range                 800           800
Target bearing        338°

* As set on machine. Torpedoes missed due gyro angle not being set on
torpedoes. It was discovered about 2 hours after firing that torpedoes
went out on zero gyro angle. Firing was done from TDC and operator
forgot to cut in the gyro setters. This point would ordinarily be
checked by Assistant Approach Officer or Firing Key Operator in Conning
Tower if firing were done from that station. As it was, no check was
made. Operator was devoting all his attention to watching Sound Bearing
Input and White Light and matching the generated and observed bearing
dials. I had intended to fire by periscope until I lost the target in a
rain squall so I didn't give the Officer operating the computer much of a
chance to get "squared away."

— page 161 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
DECLASSIFIED

8. ENEMY A/S MEASURES

May 20, 1942 On second attempted attack on 5000 ton MARU while overhauling
him in very dim moonlight at a range of 6000 yards, MARU opened fire with bow
gun then we had attained position about 2 points forward of his beam and
turned towards us, making 200 rpm on single screw. First shell passed over-
head. I don't know that there were any more. Dived to 90 feet and c/c 30°
torpedo hit. He dropped one depth charge which missed badly, about 7
minutes after the gun salvo. Went to 200 feet and slowed to 2.5 knots. He
milled around vicinity of my submergence for 1-1/2 hours before proceeding
towards him. He continued on to northeast at steady course and speed,
running silent except for horizontal and vertical steering.

May 23, 1942 After attacking 5000 ton armed freighter with 3 torpedoes he
opened fire with bow gun at our periscope - range 500 to 700 yards. We
fired a fourth torpedo. He turned towards us but we were inside his circle.
He dropped 3 depth charges (2-1/2 minutes after our first fish) which
missed considerably but made a big noise, as we had not got deep when they
went off. We were about 90 feet at this time. I continued to 200 feet but
made no attempt to run silent. 20 minutes later found target at 6000 yds,
zigging but making good a course towards DILLI.

May 24, 1942 After attacking same ship with one torpedo he repeated tactics
of the day before. Water was smooth and I was outside his turning circle so
we were deep when depth charge salvo of 3 was fired (at about same intervals
of yesterday). This salvo was more accurately placed than yesterday's and was
fired 6 minutes after we were detected; one sounded just overhead. I again
made no attempt to run silent and target soon faded out to southwest.

June 10, 1942 In VERDE ISLAND NORTH PASS (See Narrative).

June 11, 1942 off SUBIC (See Narrative).

June 12, 1942 off SUBIC (See Narrative).

June 14, 1942 off MANILA (See Narrative).

June 15, 1942 off MANILA (See Narrative). Consider it significant that
airplane picked us up twice this date in rough water, whereas no plane
picked us up on preceding day in comparatively flat seas.

June 16, 1942 off MANILA (See Narrative). Endeavored unsuccessfully to get
away from sub-chaser at periscope depth in water which I am sure would not
afford him vision of my periscope. Sound conditions were ideal and he made
the most of them.

— page 162 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
9. MAJOR DEFECTS EXPERIENCED

May 18, 1942 Insulators and co-axial conductor assembly in vertical antenna
mast have become noisy sound source in ship. After surfacing removed
compensator stub from mast and lowered mast to normal position, housing the
radiator. No further trouble experienced but now have RADAR. Recommended
remedy: Slot upper bearing to accommodate compensator stub so as to allow
mast to house completely as before; thus removing radiator from water re-
sistance submerged.

May 24, 1942 Torpedo tube No. 5, a Mk. XXXI, Mod. 1 tube, failed to fire
either electrically or by hand from Conning Tower on two attempts.
Tube depth was 47 feet, solenoid air 200 lb. impulse charge 400 lb. Torpedo in the tube
was a Mk. XIV with gyro spindle socket adapter. On attempting to close outer
door it was ascertained that stop bolt had partially lifted, thus preventing
the operation of the outer door until interlocks were disassembled. The
tube was pulled clear of tube and both an inboard charge and water slug
were fired. The stop bolt and gyro spindle worked normally in each case.
The torpedo was replaced in the tube and the tail buffer tightened and backed
off 1/10 of a turn. With the 400 lb. impulse charge and water slug the tube
fired electrically and by hand; the stop bolt and gyro spindle again worked
normally. The tail buffer was then tightened, hand tight, and attempt made
to raise the stop bolt. On the first three attempts the stop bolt did not
raise but on all subsequent trials it did. Investigation showed: (1) That
the tail buffer had not been backed off the required 1/10 turn. (2) That the
frictional force acting on the stop bolt by the torpedo guide stud plus the
friction between the gyro spindle and adaptor socket was too great for the
200 lb. solenoid air to overcome. (3) That after the gyro spindle was
worked in and out of the adaptor socket the stop bolt would lift with tail
buffer tightened. (4) That if the tail buffer had been backed off the
required 1/10 of a turn the tube, in all probability, would have worked
normally.

June 6, 1942 Attack periscope commenced fogging after about one minute's
exposure. No good in high power. This continued until about June 13 off
MANILA when it cleared for no apparent reason. Probably a temperature
difference phenomenon.

June 11, 1942 While at 200 feet for relatively mild depth charging, section
of Fuel Oil Compensating Water Line in Forward Engine Room perforated.
Came to periscope depth and applied patch. On June 12 under same circum-
stances patch failed to hold, but leak is not major and succeeded in reduc-
ing same. On suggestion of Lieut. Comdr. Stephan rigged a 1/2" by-pass
line with threaded connections between EXPANSION Tank Vent Manifold and
Fuel Oil Filling and Transfer Line, thus enabling pressure to be removed
from Compensating Water main and valves closed to tanks; while still
allowing pressure to be kept on tanks. This worked on succeeding depth
charge parties when rate of change of depth was kept at low value. This
by-pass or cross connection should be a permanent affair of about 1" pipe
with pressure fittings. It will be made the subject of a request for
alteration. There should be a means for keeping sea pressure in fuel
tanks when Compensating Water Line ruptures and it becomes necessary to
secure the latter.

— page 163 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

9. MAJOR DEFECTS EXPERIENCED (Continued)

June 14, 1942 TRIM Pump has become increasingly noisy and pumps little or
no water. I ordered it completely disassembled and we found the composition
valve plates had been beaten in about 1/16". These were installed in
January. Replaced valves with spares but required all of next day to get a
new surface on the valve plate.

June 15, 1942 DRAIN Pump by actual measurement only delivering about one-
fourth rated capacity and could scarcely keep up with bilge water at deep
submergence. On June 19, with TRIM Pump back in commission disassembled
DRAIN Pump and found that valves (which are non-metallic) had badly worn
the valve plate. Replaced with spares.

June 15, 1942 Lost NEGATIVE Tank Flood Valve Gasket in Depth Charge Attack.
This valve should be Kingston type, hydraulically operated and alteration
request is being submitted to that effect.

June 23, 1942 At 1800 when turning No. 2 main engine by air prior to
firing a peculiar noise was heard. Found the piston pin bearing rollers
of No. 5 unit to have smashed and damaged other parts of the wrist pin
bearing assembly. New unit was installed by 0400 June 24.

— page 164 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

10. REMARKS

(1) Density layer off MANILA BAY was of great value in evading echo
ranging search after initial detection. On no occasion was difficulty
experienced in getting away at 200 feet in water which was of
considerably greater density than that obtaining at periscope depth.

(2) Total hours submerged 628.7
Total hours surface 582.9
Fuel used 81,208 gals.
Lubricating oil used 1300 gals.

— page 165 —
FTS-4/A16-3
Serial S-0021
DECLASSIFIED

SUBMARINES, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
U.S.S. SARGO, FLAGSHIP:
July 27, 1942

FIRST INDORSEMENT to
ComSubRon FIVE Serial SS197/A16-3
Serial S-05 of July 2, 1942.

From: Commander Submarines, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC.
To : Commander-in-Chief, U.S. FLEET.

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

1. In spite of numerous contacts SEAWOLF patrol results
were disappointing. Most enemy vessels sighted were entering or
leaving Manila Bay. SEAWOLF patrolled within a radius of 20 miles
from Corregidor for four days and was subjected to frequent depth
charging by both escort and patrol vessels before favorable attack
positions could be reached. Enemy patrols, escorts, and ship look-
outs can be expected to be more alert off the entrance to important
harbors. Shore radar stations may also be installed in such local
ities. For these reasons Commander Submarines, Southwest Pacific
considers that this patrol might have been more successful had the
patrol been maintained at a slightly greater distance from the
entrance.

2. On three occassions during this patrol SEAWOLF was
[UNCLEAR: depth charged] by two enemy merchantmen after unsuccessful torpedo
attacks.

3. With reference to SEAWOLF approach on freighter-transpor
carrying seaplanes on 31 May, the Commanding Officer must be the
sole judge of the existing situation and the opportunities presented
for a successful attack. Commander Submarines, Southwest Pacific
concurs in decision of the Commanding Officer not to fire under
existing circumstances. However, the shortage of torpedoes should
never be a deciding factor in withholding fire at a valuable target
such as this ship was.

[SIGNATURE: C. A. Lockwood, Jr.]
C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

DISTRIBUTION
Each S/M FLEETING W.A. (1)
COMSUBRON-5 (2)
COMINCH (3)
COMSUBSPAC (5)
CC. SUBLANT (4)
S/M SC COL, NEW LONDON (4)
COMFACTOR (1)
CHIEF OF STAFF, COMSUBSWP (1)
S/M CONCERNED (1)
S/M DIVCON. CONCERNED (1)
COMTASKFOR-51 (1)

[HANDWRITTEN: 52]
[STAMP: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 8 434]
[HANDWRITTEN: 40]

— page 166 —
In reply refer to Initials
and No.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

NAVY DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
WASHINGTON 25, D. C.

[STAMP: FOR VICTORY
BUY
UNITED
STATES
WAR
BONDS
AND
STAMPS]

18 March 1946

REASSESSMENT OF DAMAGE BY SUBMARINES

Reference: (a) ComSubPac ltr. FF12-10/L11(1) of
21 February 1946.

USS SEAWOLF (SS197) 5th War Patrol
Date of Attack: 15 June 1942
Position: Off Corregidor, P.I.

SEAWOLF was credited with damaging a
freighter of 4500 tons in an attack on an escorted
target; one torpedo hit and possibly a second,
heard but not seen.

Japanese intelligence lists indicate
that in the exact location of this attack and on
the same date, the 1200 ton NANFO MARU was sunk.
Commanding Officer, Capt. F. B. Warder, U.S. Navy.

Copy to:
ComSubLant
SubSchool New London
CO SS-197
Op-23E
Op-414C3

— page 167 —
DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED
Serial S-05

U.S.S. STURGEON
11 0121
September 15, 1942

From : Commanding Officer,
To : Commander Submarines, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC.

Subject: War Diary of U.S.S. STURGEON's Sixth War Patrol 1 -
September 1942.

Enclosures: (A) Subject Diary.
(B) Track charts for dive approach.
(C) Track charts for dive attack.
(D) Track chart for surface approach.
(E) Track chart for operations in Ulithi Atoll area, 1942.

1. Enclosures (A) to (E) are for information.

2. HYPO will take note.

P.S. [UNCLEAR: 1942]

43550 FILMED
DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.10
BY [HANDWRITTEN: 91C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 8-24-66]

— page 168 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 1 * NARRATIVE

July 25, 1942 PREPARING TO LOMBOK
Returned from Fifth War Patrol on July 2 and spent the period July 2 - July
24 at FREMANTLE, undergoing upkeep.
1036 Got under way in accordance with CO SUBS SOUTHWEST PACIFIC OPERATION ORDER
No. 41-42, directing an offensive war patrol against enemy combatant, supply
and transport ships in the vicinity of BALI PASS and LOMBOK STRAITS
with a stop of at least one full day off TONGKALILI and another one off
TIMOR.
1417 Dived to 250 feet for tests, training and drills.
1559 Surfaced.
1620 (about) Sighted plane on port beam, position angle about 5°. Started R.D.R
and in about 3 minutes picked up plane in instrument at 4.5 miles. Plane
proceeded on opposite and parallel course and disappeared on R.D.R about
5 minutes before disappearing from binoculars, position angle about 3°.
Position at 2000 21° 42' S, 114° 21.5' E. Fuel used 2220 gallons. Distance
run 176.9 miles. (rpm)

July 26, 1942 PREPARING TO LOMBOK
0835 Sighted plane in Bombing Restriction area, broad on starboard bow, about
4 miles, 3° high on converging course. About one-half minute later he
paralleled our course and then crossed ahead. R.D.R could not pick this
plane up.
1605 Dived for training and drills.
1650 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 28° 32' S, 112° 50' E; 1200 27° 33' S, 112°
44' E; 2000 26° 56' S, 112° 30' E. Distance run (rpm) 348.8 miles. Fuel
used 3431 gallons.

July 27, 1942 PREPARING TO LOMBOK
1608 Dived for training and drills.
1639 Battle Surfaced. Attempted to fire one round (lafiro). Positions:
0800 23° 19' S, 112° 53' E; 1200 22° 30' S, 113° 09' E; 2000 20° 52' S,
113° 39' E. Distance run (rpm) 350.5 miles. Fuel used 3514 gallons.

July 28, 1942 PREPARING TO LOMBOK
0811 Dived for training and drills.
0850 Battle Surfaced. Fired three rounds from 3" 50 cal. gun. Positions:
0800 18° 24' S, 114° 10' E; 1200 17° 43' S, 114° 22' E; 2000 15° 57' S,
114° 36' E. Distance run (rpm) 334.6 miles. Fuel used 3297 gallons.

July 29, 1942 PREPARING TO LOMBOK
Positions: 0800 13° 33' S, 115° 03' E; 1200 12° 51' S, 115° 16' E; 2000
11° 08' S, 115° 24' E. Distance run (rpm) 351.8 miles. Fuel used 3903
gallons.

July 30, 1942 LOMBOK STRAIT
0538 Dived with LOMBOK N IS. light 19 miles 315° T. and attempted transit
STRAIT submerged, encountering currents of 3 to 5 knots and violent tide
rips. Should have gone through BALUNG. So spent day in practically
stationary patrol in southern approaches.
1902 Surfaced with LOMBOK N IS. light 21 miles 317° T. and proceeded to transit

(1) 1

— page 169 —
SECRET
U.S.S. SEALION

SECTION 1 * NARRATIVE

July 30, 1942 (Continued)
2046 Technico. Numerous lights on NUSSA BASAR and BALI.
2314 Having cleared S.M.I.T went to Battle stations and headed for object which
     at 2326 I decided to be a small sub or sub-min. From information at
     that I didn't have much more than the following:
     approach and speed at high speed. Positions: 0800 6° 55' S, 115° 42' E;
     1200 6° 55' S, 115° 42' E; 2000 6° 45' S, 115° 42' E. Distance run 201.9
     miles. Fuel used 2359 gallons.

July 31, 1942 LOMBOK TO LINGALITH
0547 Dived with S.M.I.T bearing 270°, 5 miles.
1846 Surfaced with S.M.I.T. bearing 209° E, 26 miles. Positions: 0800 6° 51' S, 116°
     25' E; 1200 6° 44' S, 116° 26' E; 2000 6° 21' S, 116° 34' E. Distance run
     177 miles. Fuel used 1449 gallons.

August 1, 1942 LOMBOK TO LINGALITH
0623 Dived with KALUKU C 150° E, 21 miles. Periscope fogging as on our
     last patrol.
1833 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 4° 50' S, 117° 31' E; 1200 4° 41' S, 117° 36' E;
     2000 4° 38' S, 117° 38' E. Distance run 167.6 miles. Fuel used 1070 gallons.

August 2, 1942 LOMBOK TO LINGALITH
0533 Dived with LINGALITH 037° E, 25 miles. Saw sailing vintas during day.
1756 Then on course 090° E. with large tanker bearing 180° E, 12000 yards.
     full rudder at 18-01-45. Target bearing 096° E, course 180° E, 12000 yards. Made approach at
     full speed except stopping for observations as follows:
     18-11-15 102° E, course 203° E, 8500 yards.
     18-21-05 115° E, course 205° E, 7000 yards.
     18-30-10 129° E, course 210° E, 5000 yards.
     18-37-15 141° E, angle on bow large and starboard, no range.
     Sunset was at 18-11. Only decent observation was probably that at 18-21-05.
     Attempted echo-ranging unsuccessfully.
18-37-39 Commenced at 18-37-39. Sent to full speed and lowered periscope incident to loss of depth.
18-40-30 At 63 feet an explosion of sufficient violence to kick loose conning
     tower paint and break diving station barometer. Ordered 200 feet as I was
     apprehensive of sub chasers reported by SEMOR.COM this morning. On reconcilia-
     tion I thought this might be a torpedo, rather than a depth charge, for the
     following reasons: (1) No swish of water in superstructure such as usually
     accompanies depth charge explosion of this violence. (2) The detonation was
     not heard to fire, as it usually is heard to, when charge is at all close.
     (3) Realization that I didn't have much more than the first notion of
     actual target range and that it could be 3000 as well as 5000 yards.
     So caught ship to 75 feet and ordered periscope depth.
1848 Came right to 190° E. to more nearly parallel while continuing to close
     target track. No thing in sight in periscope than than the dark land back-
     ground of CELEBES.

(1) 2

— page 170 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SHORENT
SECTION 1 * MACASSAR
August 2, 1942 (Continued)
18-49-50 One distant explosion.
1902 Surfaced with CAPE WILLI bearing 056° T, 15 miles and went ahead 11 on
Nos. 1 and 2 main engines on 198° T, speed 14 knots, putting in quick chase
on Hdg. 3 and 4 main engines. I continued on 198° T until 1947 at which
time I came left to 080° T. I did not desire to close him as I already had
very poor visibility. I decided to run back to the east and west after
the moon came up, no I already had very poor visibility.
1950 Slowed to one main engine, 10 knots.
2142 Sent COMSUBS following dispatch in order to apprise STOMIS (coming north
of us) of our possible movement to southward in chase of
tanker and in order inform CO SUBS of traffic off CAPE WILLIA: "021328
UNESCORTED LARGE SOUTHBOUND TANKER 007 ONE MILE FROM SEAWOLF ABOUT EIGHT MILES
1840 H XX STILL LOOKING FOR HIM"
2302 moonrise (moon in last quarter).
2311 Changed course to 084° T and at 2315 sighted southbound ship bearing 099° T.
Closed on various courses and speeds until a range of 5000 yards was
attained but decided not to attempt surface attack account impossibility of
getting in close undetected. Clouds were blowing across the sky in such
fashion as to give good visibility for a little while followed by visibility
too poor for periscope. So I decided to open out to westward and go up
ahead of target keeping him in sight and attacking at dawn from periscope.
Positions: 0800 2° 55' S, 118° 34' E; 1200 2° 48' S, 118° 36' E; 2000 2° 55' S,
118° 34' E. Fuel used 1112 gallons.

August 3, 1942 between CAPE WILLIA AND MACASSAR.
Various courses and speeds to work around ship which was kept in sight to
eastward.
0410 Then ahead of ship 7-8 miles slowed to his speed (9.7 knots) and took his
course (177° T).
0436 Shifted to battle stations.
0450 Dived with KAPOSING Light 093° T, 12 miles. Battle Stations.
04-59-30 Picked up ship in periscope bearing 003° S T. but then lost him.
05-09-05 Came left to 090° to close KAPOPOSING entrance to MACASSAR.
05-28-35 Picked up ship again bearing 023° T, 5000 yards.
05-38-15 Sighted DD bearing 054° T and a small southbound freighter astern of
tanker about 1500 yards. DD maneuvered on various courses and speeds but
never closed us to a range less than 6000 yards prior to attack. In combina-
tion with flat, glassy surface he constituted a serious nuisance. It
05-51-53 Commenced first attack on whale factory (tanker).
05-59-00 delivered second attack on whale factory. It
06-01-35 DD heading for me at good speed. Turned with left full rudder at 6
knots to prevent stern.
06-04-30 One explosion well distant (probably torpedo at end of run?) but I
ordered 200 feet and rigged for depth charges.
0606 With ship on 357° T DD bore 110° T.

(1) 3

— page 171 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 1 - NARRATIVE (Continued)

August 3, 1942 (Continued)
0607 Slowed to one-third (2.4 knots).
0608 DD 117° T.
0612 DD 145° T.
0613 At 120 feet went ahead two-thirds (4.3 knots).
0615 Slowed to one-third.
0616 DD 153° T, closer.
0617 DD 170° T.
0618 At 200 feet first depth charge on starboard quarter, DD propellers 187° T.
0619 Second depth charge, astern. DD 193° T.
0621 Third depth charge, DD at 225° T. DD went to port quarter.
0634 I turned to 097° T at standard speed to put him astern and slowed to two-
     thirds. DD went over on my starboard quarter.
0729 Slowed to one-third, now bearing 188° T.
0730 Came left to 080° T. DD evidently circling astern, soundings very faint.
0800 At 63 feet, clear. Continued north, no shipping in sight.
1852 Surfaced KAPOPOSANG 159° T, 23 miles. Numerous small craft in sight all
     day. Positions: 0800 4° 39'S, 118° 57' E; 1200 4° 29' S, 118° 50' E;
     2000 4° 06' S, 118° 47' E. Fuel used 1324. Miles steamed 162.1.

August 4, 1942 PASSAR TO TJINGKALIHAT
0529 Divod on 096° T, 22 miles and steered so as to reconnoitre east
     line between TJINGKALI and TJUELEO in order ascertain if ship hit on night
     of August 2 had succeeded in beaching himself. No tops or wreckage could
     be found. Coast was skirted at 1 to 6 miles, minimum sounding 90 fathoms.
1850 Surfaced TJINGKALI 078° T, 10 miles. Positions: 0800 2° 54' S, 118° 42' E;
     1200 2° 50' S, 118° 43' E; 2000 2° 29' S, 118° 36' E. Fuel used 825.
     Miles steamed 145.7.

August 5, 1942 PASSAR TO TJINGKALIHAT
0528 Dived on 010° T.
1020 Heavy white smoke 123° T. Turned at full speed to head for it.
1028 Bearing having changed to 120° T, and a top being visible came left at full
     speed to collision course. Went to Battle Stations and conducted approach
     at full speed for one half hour except for 3 periscope observations; at
     standard speed for next half hour except for 2 observations. Minimum range
     obtained 10000 yards.
1128 With target bearing 051° T, 16000 yards abandoned approach.
1845 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 0° 42' S, 118° 48' E; 1200 0° 31' S, 118° 53' E;
     2000 0° 12' S, 118° 56' E. Fuel used 1009. Miles steamed 132.7.

August 6, 1942 PASSAR TO (and at) TJINGKALIHAT
0529 Dived TJINGKALIHAT 250° T 10 miles.
1355 Sighted small schooner or motor launch.
1850 Surfaced TJINGKALIHAT 275° T, 10 miles. Positions: 0800 0° 56' N, 119°
     07' E; 1200 1° 01' N, 119° 05' E; 2000 1° 05' N, 119° 10' E. Miles steamed
     125.9. Fuel used 647.

(1) 4

— page 172 —
SECRET
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECTION 1 - NARRATIVE
(Continued)

August 7, 1942 off N.G. LIGHT and en route BALIKPAPAN
0432 While patrolling off N.G. LIGHT sighted ship bearing 330° T and headed for
     it.
0450 Sounds like submarine.
0453 Decided it might be BRITISH south bound and turned at 15 knots to run
     it down.
0518 Dived. TG 242° T 13 miles; course 200° T.
1949 Surfaced. N.G. LIGHT 201° T, 32 miles. Positions: 0500 3° 00' N,
     118° 18' E; 1200 1° 35' N, 118° 15.9' E; 2000 1° 35' N, 118° 15.9' E.
     Fuel used 15.9.

August 8, 1942 N.G. LIGHT 10 (and 26) BALIKPAPAN
0525 Dived. N.G. LIGHTSHIP 305° T, 30 miles. Patrol in area 40
     fathoms.
1853 Surfaced. N.G. LIGHTSHIP 305° T, 32 miles. Positions: 0500 3° 00' N,
     118° 10' E; 1200 3° 05' N, 118° 01' E; 2000 3° 07' N, 118° 10' E. Fuel used
     127.3.

August 9, 1942 Off BALIKPAPAN
0338 Sunrise.
0422 Lieut. Everson (000) saw ship on port quarter and turned to head for it.
     (At this time we had been approaching BALIKPAPAN on course 315° T
     and thought we were on about 100 fathom curve). Visibility was poor in
     direction of contact. We made out a shape on course 315° T, a small one.
     leading; went to Battle Stations; and as soon as I could catch up with him
     the first one on the screen I thought leader was a DD and intended to
     to starboard. Then leader turned to the left and swung on to ship bearing
     swing on to ship astern with three. I saw him signalling with red
     periscope and blinders, making characters for T O. I thought he was signalling
     to ship astern. I ran to rendezvous ship but he was evidently
     before I could catch him with binocular. I realized he was challenging us.
     I turned towards him and turned towards him. At this time this
     us rapidly and I submerged on course 240° (at 0427) between leader and
     second ship. I was inside firing range. I went to periscope depth to watch
     I was inside firing range. I watched leader's turning circle and expecting him to turn
     of second ship. Second ship crossed ahead of us at 0443-45;
     close aboard. I realized that only opportunity remaining
     I had was to hope that tanker would wait for an escort ship or
     would still run with torpedo boat played with us. So I turned to
     315° at 6 knots. Went to 90 feet.
0452-30 Another depth charge further away to south east.
0453-05 Another depth charge further away to south east.
0456-30 Two depth charges close to us.
0506-40 Heard pinging in aft.
0510-40 Screws astern.
0512-40 Orders periscope depth.
0516-45 Tanker like, 3° 10' N, course 309°, 4000 yds. The Oals have a sil.
     30° and works across track for stern tubes.
     bow at high speed, then slowed and opened on 70° slip.

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SECTION 1 # NARRATIVE (Continued)

August 10, 1942 Off TARAKAN
0540 Dived with ex-Lightship bearing 293° T, 28 miles; heading for same.
0955 Sighted smoke bearing 300° T. Smoke changed bearing to 290° T.
commenced approach at high speed on collision course.
1024 Heard pinging.
1027 Identified target as TIDO torpedo boat, bearing 280° T, 13000 yards, now
heading for us. Turned to put him astern. Surface is too rough and sound
conditions excellent for attack. At 1040 he zigged 20° to right but
decreased to 4000 yards I went to 200 feet to avoid myself of dense layer
found at about 170 feet. Temperature at 63 feet 81° F.
1138 At periscope depth, target 154° T, 18000 yards; course south. Contin-
ued to head for TARAKAN. Torpedo boat went back and forth southeast of us un-
til 1338 when he disappeared bearing 151° T. (direction of MANGKALIHAT). Con-
tinued in towards TARAKAN.
1903 Surfaced TARAKAN-Lightship 308° T, 14 miles.
2125 Decided to proceed to SIBUTU account (1) Departure of torpedo boat to south-
ward indicates that tanker either got out last night or is going to stay in
for long time. (2) General desirability of operating at focal points of
routes, versus turning points of voyages where chances of a protracted
search are radical and a waste of time. (3) Fact that two and a half
days had been spent off MANGKALIHAT; two and a half days had been
spent off TARAKAN and two and a half days on the secondary run for a stop
due for a stop at SIBUTU.
0800 3° 06' N, 118° 14' E; 1200 3° 10' N, 119° 09' E;
2000 3° 08' N, 119° 10' E. Miles steamed 135.0. Fuel used 764.

August 11, 1942 TARAKAN TO SIBUTU
0603 Sunrise.
0610 Dived course 044° T. SIBUTU IS. 015° T, 22 miles.
1908 Surfaced SIBUTU IS. 281° T, 10 miles. Positions: 0800 4° 17' N, 119° 26' E;
1200 4° 24' N, 119° 33' E; 2000 4° 38' N, 119° 38' E. Miles steamed 145.4.
Fuel used 795.

August 12, 1942 SIBUTU PASSAGE & ANVEL BAY
0532 Dived about 15 miles south of DENT RIVER to penetrate ANVEL BAY to head of
river in order become familiar with the landmarks and currents in case
of chase leading into one of channels west of SIBUTU.
1452 At northern entrance LICE CHANNEL reversed course to 060° and stood out.
1858 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 4° 56' N, 119° 12' E; 1200 4° 50' N, 119° 04' E;
2000 4° 53' N, 119° 06' E. Fuel used 556. Miles steamed 130.1.

August 13, 1942 Northern approaches SIBUTU
Patrolling line 113° - 293° from BONG.O BAY whose extremities are 10 miles
from BONG.O and BONG.O Shores.
0527 Dived BONG.O 104° T, 18 miles. Few minutes sighted during day.
1855 Surfaced BONG.O 104° T, 13 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 09' N, 119° 32' E;
1200 5° 05' N, 119° 37' E; 2000 5° 00' N, 119° 27' E. Fuel used 443. Miles
steamed. 101.5.

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SECRET
SECTION 1 * NARRATIVE (Continued)

August 14, 1942 SIBUTU PASSAGE and WESTERN CELEBES SEA
0532 Dived 200, C/C 113°, 20 miles; course east.
1000 Lt. (jg) MERCER, OOD, sighted smoke bearing 320° T. and turned to
head for it.
1018 Changed to c. vision course and went to Battle Stations. Speed checks
8 to 10 knots, course checks 150° to 180°. Employed echo ranging
successfully below 2000 yards. Crossed his bow and delivered successful
stern tube attack at 1220, obtaining one hit which apparently blew hell
out of shaft alley, No. 3 hold, steering engine room, after steering
station, mainmast rigging and after gun platform. I am not sure a gun
was mounted. If there was, it went overboard. Crew completed abandoning
ship at 1205, at which time flooding was apparently checked.
12-2-55 Delivered second attack. Torpedo ran under target without exploding.
Decided to wait until after lunch to fire additional one more torpedo and
to fire it at 2200 foot if target still floated. Crew of about 40 men about
evenly divided in two whaleboats, lying to about 1000 yards off ship.
They row poorly. There are two wounded in one boat. Their uniforms
are nondescript Cungarocs, khaki, whites, sweaters.
Some caps, some hats.
1427 Observed crews to be stopping leaks in whaleboats. One whaleboat remains
at davits each side of ship.
1441 Boats under sail heading for north and of SIBUTU or into KAWIL BAY
made approach to fire additional torpedo but observed did to be down on
more foot by stern. Ragged hole of about 18" diameter in side plating on port side below
where deck is buckled; about one foot out of water. So about 1512 de-
cided not to shoot torpedo but to use ship for decoy during afternoon and
sink same by gunfire during evening twilight should she still be afloat.
1645 SS MEICHOW sank in 4° 56' N, 119° 38' E, with much smoke and loud
explosions with flying debris. Current setting badly to southward so
decided to run on experiment, returned to WESTERN CELEBES SEA and inform CO SIBUTU
1900 Surfaced SALUAG LT. 210° T, 17 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 07' N, 119° 34' E;
1200 5° 07' N, 119° 36' E; 2000 4° 40' N, 119° 43' E. Fuel used 668.
Miles steamed 118.9.

August 15, 1942 WESTERN CELEBES AND SIBUTU PASSAGE
Patrolling from SIBUTU towards DAVAO, course 090°.
0100 Completed transmission by 141635 and reversed course for SIBUTU.
0520 Dived SALUAG LT. 276° T, 24 miles and patrolled southern approaches.
1855 Surfaced SALUAG 244° T, 14 miles. Positions: 0800 4° 34' N, 119° 41' E;
1200 4° 33' N, 119° 39' E; 2000 4° 46' N, 119° 40' E. Fuel used 667.
Miles steamed 128.1.

August 16, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU PASSAGE
Patrolling line 293° from BONGO.
0524 Dived BONGO 113° T, 19 miles. Seas very flat. Misty weather.
1851 Surfaced BONGO 110° T, 14 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 06' N, 119° 33' E;
1200 5° 11' N, 119° 30' E; 2000 5° 04' N, 119° 25' E. Fuel used 429.
Miles steamed 99.8.

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SECTION 1 x NARRATIVE (Continued)

August 17, 1942 NORTH APPROACHES SIBUTU PASSAGE
0527 Dived BONGO 10° T, 18 mils.
1848 Surfaced BONGO 10° T, 11 mils. Positions: 0800 5° 02' N, 119° 32' E;
     1200 5° 07' N, 119° 33' E; 2000 5° 05' N, 119° 27' E. Fuel used 431.
     Miles steamed 100.

August 18, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU
0526 Dived BONGO Peak 115° T, 20 miles. Hazy day, 11 a.m.
1058 Sound reported pinging.
1059 Found ship bearing 042° T, 18000 yards. Head for it at full speed on
     surface to make attack. Conducted high speed approach of parallel track
     following an enemy DD. Target course checks 235° to 160° T, speed checks
     9 to 13 knots.
1200 Abandoned approach with torpedo run of 3500 yards and track angle of
     90° which was the best I had been able to get.
1248 Sound of ship disappearing on 182° T. I did not intend to pursue this
     formation as I suspected that Pass was probably the object of any air
     patrol.
1424 Lieut. HOLDEN, OOD, sighted bright barrel of periscope 123° T, 3500 yds.
     No noise in sound gear. Probably EN PUS.
1848 Surfaced BONGO 10° T, 12 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 07' N, 119° 32' E;
     1200 5° 05' N, 119° 40' E; 2000 5° 10' N, 119° 34' E. Miles steamed
     106.2. Fuel used 520.

August 19, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU
0546 Dived BONGO Peak 121° T, 19 miles. Another clear calm day.
1851 Surfaced BONGO Peak 121° T, 12 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 08' N, 119° 34' E;
     1200 5° 10' N, 119° 41' E; 2000 5° 12' N, 119° 34' E. Fuel used 337.
     Miles steamed 97.7.

August 20, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU
0540 Dived BONGO 125° T, 20 miles.
1851 Surfaced BONGO 125° T, 12 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 13' N, 119° 34' E;
     1200 5° 19' N, 119° 43' E; 2000 5° 12' N, 119° 32' E. Miles steamed 97.7.
     Fuel used 386.

August 21, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU
0523 Dived BONGO 117° T, 25 miles.
1850 Surfaced BONGO 117° T, 9 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 10' N, 119° 28' E;
     1200 5° 04' N, 119° 40' E; 2000 5° 12' N, 119° 33' E. Miles steamed 99.7.
     Fuel used 389.

August 22, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES and IN SIBUTU PASS
     In view of deep tide making currents less favorable, apparent non-use of
     LIECHINNEL, invisibility of a narrower front to cover submerged on -
     the surface, and route where base course is more apt to be fixed with less
     likelihood of target getting by as on last approach, decided to operate
     in the Pass during daylight and back and forth in northern
     approaches during night.

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SECRET
SECTION 1 - NARRATIVE (Continued)

August 22, 1942 (Continued)
0525 Dived BONGU 102°, 9 miles.
1843 Surfaced BONGU 068° T, 7 miles. Positions: 0800 4° 56' N, 119° 38' E;
    1200 4° 48' N, 119° 38' E; 2000 5° 05' N, 119° 38' E. Miles steamed 96.2.
    Fuel used 377.

August 23, 1942 SIBUTU PASS AND NORTHERN APPROACHES
0522 Dived BONGU 095° T, 4.5 miles.
1848 Surfaced BONGU 050° T, 8.3 miles. Positions: 0800 04° 56' N,
    119° 38' E; 1200 04° 48' N, 119° 38' E; 2000 05° 05' N, 119° 33' E. Fuel
    used 25. Miles steamed 101.3.

August 24, 1942 SIBUTU PASS AND NORTHERN APPROACHES
0243 Sighted on bearing 113° T what developed to be a northbound submarine (to be
    identified as S-39).
0523 Dived BONGU 089° T, 7 miles.
1845 Surfaced BONGU 089° T, 10 miles.
2108 Lieut. (jg) HERBERT, sighted smoke of ship bearing 052° T and commenced
    approach to get set for moonlight attack.
2235 Dived in PASS with a northbound ship bearing about 070° T. Crossed bow and
    attacked unsuccessfully with one torpedo. Positions: 0800
    4° 56' N, 119° 38' E; 1200 4° 47' N, 119° 41' E; 2000 4° 50' N, 119° 30' E.
    Fuel used 727. Miles steamed 108.1.

August 25, 1942 SIBUTU PASS and between SIBUTU and TARKAN
    Following target submerged on course 187° T.
0005 Secured from battle stations.
0044 Surfaced and maneuvered at various speeds (mostly four engines) to take
    station 7 miles on port bow of target, course 186°.
0250 As result of change of target bearing showing change of course to right
    and target disappeared from view assumed he had taken course for TARKAN
    or changed to 246° T.
0349 Changed to 250° T in prior run position 7 miles ahead of target by dawn.
    Did not regain sight of target during night; passed through much heavy
    rain.
0602 Estimated that we were 7 miles ahead of target so reversed to 060° T,
    to get on opposite of course.
0605 Dived 3° 54' N, 119° 59' E.
0635 Lieut. (jg) HILLE, OOD, sighted tanker in rain squall. Crossed bow on
    target and delivered successful stern tube attack on 07-05-19.
07-07-10 Ship had sunk.
0721 Surfaced to investigate debris floating on water. About 6 survivors
    floating on boards, floating empty box and in life preserver.
    Threw over 6 of our life preservers and retrieved one of theirs from
    water (not in use). After they recover from shock they will be able to
    make a raft of wreckage.

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SECTION 1 * NARRATIVE (Continued)

August 25, 1942 (Continued)
0735 Submerged and patrolling towards SIBUTU on tanker route.
1808 Surfaced. BONG AO Peak 071° T, 11 miles. Positions: 0800 3° 56' N, 119° 17' E.
1200 4° 01' N, 119° 00' E; 2000 3° 58' N, 119° 30' E. Fuel used 1732.
Miles steamed 173.6.

August 26, 1942 SIBUTU PASS AND APPROACHES
Heavy rain squally.
0612 Dived. BONG AO Peak 123° T, 10 miles.
1836 Surfaced. BONG AO Peak 068° T, 11 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 08' N, 119°
41' E; 1200 5° 00' N, 119° 36' E; 2000 5° 35' N, 119° 35' E. Fuel used
938. Miles steamed 151.9.

August 27, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU
0306 Sighted a southbound ship, apparently a small freighter, bearing 100° T to port, at 8
miles. Changed course to intercept. Ship increased speed to 15 knots.
0312 Other ship held course to south. Lost contact on 15 knot ship, not a
B.A.K.
0550 Dived. BONG AO Peak 325° T, 8 miles, on patrol in B.A.K. - SIBUTU
traffic lane.
1832 Surfaced. BONG AO 166° T, 11 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 40' N, 119° 48' E;
1200 5° 34' N, 119° 45' E; 2000 5° 13' N, 119° 38' E. Fuel used 769.
Miles steamed 146.2.

August 28, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU PASS
0538 Dived. BONG AO 173° T, 11 miles.
1820 Surfaced. BONG AO 124° T, 9 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 12' N, 119° 43' E;
1200 5° 12' N, 119° 42' E; 2000 5° 18' N, 119° 30' E. Miles steamed 141.1.
Fuel used 683.

August 29, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU
0533 Dived. BONG AO Peak 110° T, 17 miles.
1839 Surfaced. BONG AO Peak 062° T, 9 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 07' N, 119° 34' E;
1200 5° 05' N, 119° 38' E; 2000 5° 03' N, 119° 38' E. Fuel used 740.
Miles steamed 141.8.

August 30, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU
0530 Dived. BONG AO Peak 110° T, 10 miles.
1838 Surfaced. BONG AO Peak 110° T, 9 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 07' N, 119° 35' E;
1200 5° 11' N, 119° 37' E; 2000 5° 11' N, 119° 34' E. Fuel used 617.
Miles steamed 126.5.

August 31, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES SIBUTU
0529 Dived. BONG AO 149° T, 9 miles.
1841 Surfaced. BONG AO 137° T, 9 miles. Positions: 0800 5° 08' N, 119° 33' E;
1200 5° 10' N, 119° 40' E; 2000 5° 14' N, 119° 43' E. Fuel used 454.
Miles steamed 106.1.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 1 - NARRATIVE (Continued)

September 3, 1942 (Continued)
Positions: 0800 1° 09' N, 119° 08' E; 1200 1° 01' N, 119° 05' E; 2000
0° 53' N, 119° 01' E. Fuel used 2110. Miles steamed 197.0.

September 4, 1942 En route and off CAPE GILLE; in route to L.S.B.A. CITY
Many vintas on a large number of schooners of about 100 tons sighted
during night and day.
0524 Dived CAPE GILLE 130° T, 10 miles.
1834 Surfaced CAPE L.M.R. 133° T, 22 miles. Positions: 0800 2° 38' S, 118° 30'
E; 1200 2° 52' S, 118° 37' E; 2000 3° 29' S, 118° 40' E. Fuel used 136.
Miles steamed 163.4.

September 5, 1942 NORTHEASTERN APPROACHES MASSAR CITY
0553 Dived K.POPOS CHANNEL bearing 225° T, 11 miles (end of long stretch of
water). Intended submerged patrol off Northeastern approaches.
approximately.
1748 Then closing Eastern approaches in order get an observation from tidal
for night run of local small ship to north and west of P.M.T. L.M.L.N.
(anchor of reefs).
1803 Surfaced and ran in channel until ship could no longer be on account darkness.
Determined that ship was stationary and in south-east heading (Pilot to
wind). Concluded that ship might be pilot vessel or station ship and at
this time I reversed course to 250° T.
1843 Surfaced with P.M.T. L.M.L.N. 090° T, 2.8 miles. Could not have gone into
ship. Visibility rotten to starboard. Dead. Course to 252° T to clear
most of the reefs. I recommended route for channel approach to north
and west of P.M.T. L.M.L.N. and to ask for about 1 hour to clear. I thought
this 12' ship had come out during night and would have gotten out. I
would be waiting for him to come out with his pilot and then I would
actually have the visibility in this area. I had a half hour to a
twilight) then I would be waiting for him to come out of the reefs
through one of the channels north or south of P.M.T. L.M.L.N. where I had
a current to come in with and the only way I could get in with except
the way here to clear. At this time I thought I should be working right
and working around this spot. I realized that I was about 2 days further
to make S.E.A. and I was about 2 days further to make S.E.A.
2213 c/c to 207° T, remain. [UNCLEAR: 20] miles.
2245 Cleared up 0540 requesting spot. U.S.S.R. or S.E.A.
2400 Reversed course to 020° T. Positions: 0800 4° 42' S, 118° 52' E; 1200
4° 51' S, 118° 53' E; 2000 5° 03' S, 118° 46' E. Fuel used 940. Miles
steamed 135.3.

September 6, 1942 NORTHERN APPROACHES MASSAR.
0027 Decided to stay off MASSAR.
0240 Moonrise.
0541 Dived P.M.T. L.M.L.N. 090° T, 14 miles. Sent day patrol in. Comes out across
the channel entrance. 2000 yards from 100.
Further course. Yesterday's ship no longer present and no sign of.
Excellent periscope weather.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 1 * NARRATIVE (Continued)

September 6, 1942 (Continued)
1840 Surfaced. Proceeded on course 006° T, 3.6 miles and proceeded toward
entrance to KIPAPOSING. Position: 0800 4° 59' S, 119° 00' E; 1200 4° 51' S, 119° 01'
2000 4° 50' S, 119° 02' E. Fuel used 520. Miles steamed 136.7.

September 7, 1942 SOUTHEAST APPROACHES - MAKASSAR
0536 Dived. KIPAPOSING 060° T, 7 miles. Proceeded toward approaches
243° (reverse of course) 062° T, 10 miles. Proceeded toward approaches
Position: 0800 4° 44' S, 118° 52' E; 1200 4° 41' S, 118° 50' E; 2000
4° 53' S, 118° 47' E. Fuel used 402. Miles steamed 100.1.

September 8, SOUTHERN APPROACHES - MAKASSAR
0407 Moonrise.
0537 Sighted ship which developed to be a small JAP boat in the BADIJ
already inshore of us.
0550 Dived. MAKASSAR 062° T, 10 miles.
0601 Sunrise. Patrolled back and forth between two approaches which passed between
P. LAI and P. LAI. For entire day.
1622 Surfaced. At 1000 214° T, 25 miles and estimated at 10 miles in
carrying planes from SUM. (TL) for night and took course 275° (reverse of course)
2109 (1) At 10 miles, took course 275° T, 11 miles. Position: 0800
5° 36' S, 119° 03' E; 1200 5° 37' S, 119° 03' E; 2000 5° 37' S, 119° 03'
Fuel used 857. Miles steamed 141.7.

September 9, 1942 MAKASSAR to LO BOK
0500 Moonrise.
0609 Sunrise.
0630 C/C to 270° T.
0632 Dived. LO BOK 06° 00' S, 117° 20' E.
1738 Surfaced. Position: 0800 6° 00' S, 117° 17' E; 1200 6° 10' S, 117°
1939 C/C to 209° T. 54' E; 2000 6° 43' S, 116° 44' E. Fuel used 1414. Miles steamed 164.5.
07: [UNCLEAR: 2000 6° 10' S, 117°]

September 10, 1942 PATROLING via TA BO. GALEH
0532 Dived. LO BOK GALEH.
1758 Surfaced. South of P. LAI. Position: 0800 8° 47' S, 115° 42' E; 1200
11° 41' S, 115° 27' E; 2000 9° 41' S, 115° 27' E. Fuel used 2274.
Miles steamed 204.9.

September 11, 1942 LO BOK to BALI
Position: 0800 12° 26' S, 114° 32' E; 1200 13° 23' S, 114° 14' E; 2000
15° 21' S, 113° 35' E. Fuel used 609. Miles steamed 355.2.

September 12, 1942 LOMBOK to BALI
Position: 0800 18° 21' S, 112° 35' E; 1200 19° 21' S, 112° 15' E; 2000
21° 14' S, 112° 10' E. Fuel used 5713. Miles steamed 364.8.

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— page 182 —
U.S.S. SEALF

SECTION 1 # H.TR.MV. (Continued)

September 13, 1942 LC 10 F1.NL.
1337 In patrol. Sighted PY bearing 255° T, position
angle about 3°. Plan on southeasterly course about one point on our
starboard bow. P. 2°.
1340 On point on starboard bow. P. 2°.
1343 Disappearing from sight about 1/2 point on port bow. Although no indication
running continuously no indication could be obtained. Position: 0800
23° 44' N, 112° 20' E; 1200 24° 49' N, 112° 20' E; 2000 26° 47' N, 112°
21' E. Fuel used 6659. Oil used 410.7.

September 14, 1942 LC 10 F1.NL.
1348 Dive for battery discharge at 3 hour rate; nil test on recent 265
feet prior to every return.
1658 Surface; battery capacity 100% plus. Position: 0800 28° 28' N, 113°
05' E; 1200 30° 23' N, 113° 26' E; 2000 30° 55' N, 113° 22' E. Fuel used
3965. Oil used 329.3.

September 15, 1942 LC 10 F1.NL.
0345 Submerged with escort vessel in process. Inter-harbor via arched
channel. Miles steamed 58.1. Fuel used 840.

Finis

Report on:
Total fuel used during patrol 76,774
Total lub oil used during patrol 1060
Total hours submerged during patrol 940.7
Total hours submerged during patrol 589.6
Total hours on surface during patrol 673.2

[HANDWRITTEN: R. A. D. S.]
[HANDWRITTEN: Lieutenant Commander, U. S. N.]
[HANDWRITTEN: Commanding.]

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— page 187 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECTION 5 * DESCRIPTION OF ENEMY SHIPS SIGHTED (Continued)

August 9, 1942 off T.L.M. at 0422 a ship which developed to be a tanker of
about 4000 tons, 350 feet length, 10 feet masthead. Straight stack
aft, 1 stick mast forward, 3 pairs of kingposts in well deck. 1 stick mast
aft. Gun on platform at stern. Proceeding in to T.L.M. on various
courses at high speed and then accelerating. Tried to attack
unsuccessfully at 0545-33 in about 3° 10' N, 118° 05' E.

August 9, 1942 off T.L.M. at 422 a ship which developed to be a T.R.O.L.
Torpedo Boat loading on T.L.M. in to T.L.M.. Revolver [UNCLEAR: yarder]
blinkers, makes heavily at high speed and then accelerating. Has a
powerful searchlight, in no way can be considered efficient. Very erratically
in sight on 18 kts, from [UNCLEAR: top] [UNCLEAR: of] [UNCLEAR: T.L.M.] in sight at
various times on T.L.M. and T.L.M..

August 14, 1942 at 1008 that developed to be X-British S.S. MICHON class
in northern entrance GIBUTU PASSAGE. Ship is 3113 tons, normal
15 feet; about 350 feet length, 60 feet masthead (t.p. of
bottom point) two stick masts, control bridge island in between the
passenger locks, three cargo holds, two whaleboats per side. Big
flying bridge one stack aft, on after one of the platforms forward
of bridge. After one of which a gun may have been mounted but forced to
blow all this structure into the air. Combination of light-
straight stack with recumbent top of [UNCLEAR: T.L.M.] or corrugated
on forward cargo hatch. Ship was drawing about 14 feet fore and aft
even keel fore and aft.

August 18, 1942 at 1056 hours in an in [UNCLEAR: an] found to be a ship bearing 042° T,
about 13000 yards. Our position 5° 06'.5 N, 119° 36'.2 E. Developed to be
tanker of about 4500 tons, 340 feet length, 50 feet mast, small
control bridge island. No. 1 mast - stick; No. 2 mast - stick; No. 3
mast - stick; No. 4 mast - large real post. Straight, radio
aft. Spool checks 9 feet forward and aft with either one or no passenger.
following about 20 yards astern of T.O.L.O.Z.U. DD (single stick)
board side was camouflaged with two or three of white paint
conducted in a speed approach but was unable to obtain any better than
3500 yards torpedo run, 135° track, in a long [UNCLEAR: acc] [UNCLEAR: S.I.I.]
target passed about 5 miles west of BENG.O M. Campo [UNCLEAR: rol] bearing about 162° T.

August 24, 1942 at 2100 when in 4° 59' N, 119° 28' E. Sighted southbound ship
bearing 052° T, about 8 miles. Developed to be tanker of about 5000 tons,
400 feet length, 10 feet masthead. High forecastle with top of well deck
forward of bridge. High stick mast forward of bridge, low well deck
bridge, low low well deck aft, crew quarters on main deck aft.
single stack aft, [UNCLEAR: without] on each quarter. Stern, makes heavily
most of the time (steam vessel). There may have been
gun aft. None was noticed. On even keel fore and aft but not [UNCLEAR: rest] [UNCLEAR: of] [UNCLEAR: a].

(5) 2

— page 188 —
SECRET
U.S.S. SILF

SECTION 5 * DESCRIPTION OF ENEMY SHIPS SIGHTED (Continued)

August 24, 1942 (Continued)

freeboard of ships. Counted 68 rpm for 10 knots but 140 rpm for 10 knots next
morning. Could not be a "whale boat". Target sunk unsuccessfully at 2352. Target turned to TSUKUMAN at
187° T. at 4° 39' N, 119° 35' E. Tanker was not full, probably in ballast account strong head
wind. Believe him to be training crew this
morning to be on lookout night.

September 2, 1942 1741 Sighted smoke bearing 252° T. and at 1758 surfaced in
order observe and close if possible. Vessel proved to be an old stick foremast,
central bridge island, stick mainmast, hull down; about 11 miles. Speed
course about 150°; speed 10; est. of 3000 tons. Last observed at 1834
in 2° 54' N, 118° 01' E. Failed to keep
rendezvous with us to occupy end of channels north of LOMBOK and
he went in to LOMBOK, which was a regular port of call for LOMBOK. For
reasons for night attack, see MEMORANDUM.

September 5, 1942 1746 when in 4° 58.6' N, 118° 07.5' E sighted small ship
bearing 083°.7 T, 15000 yards on southerly bow. Channel entrance in
gathering darkness but ship remained stationary and the ship was
was a station vessel or Pilot ship at the channel entrance. The
240 feet long, estimated tonnage 2500. High foremast and one stick foremast
bridge. Bridge structure about height of single stick. One stick foremast
and one aft. No other details observed or estimated. Ship was not present or
our return the next morning. Did not have to wait for this ship for following
reasons: (1) Doubtful value of target as compared to larger ship in
operating close in to reefs when currents were known to be variable and strong,
in poor visibility with landmarks difficult to distinguish and possible exits to
cover. (2) Desirability of informing CSSIP of our intentions, as
it appears from his dispatches that he thought we were to be three days earlier to
LOMBOK; and it was thought quite probable that COMMANDER LOMBOK was
covering this same spot. (3) Belief that if ship did come out one of the
channels during night and LOMBOK and DILLING SUGAR and
we will be better able to cope with the situation in improved
visibility usually experienced in this area an hour or so after dusk on
moonless nights. Visibility extremely poor in direction of reefs on surfacing.

September 8, 1942 at 0537 sighted tops of ship bearing about 045° T, 11 miles
from us. Developed to be small MANU of 2 masts, central stack and bridge, broke
into LOMBOK on northerly course through 5° 25' S, 119° 05' E. Speed
unknown. No approach possible.

(5) 3

— page 189 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 6 - AIRCRAFT SIGHTED

July 25, 1942 In Bombing Restriction area one PBY on southerly course, at
about 1620, about 50 miles northwest of MINDORO.

July 26, 1942 At 0635 in Bombing Restriction area one PBY in about 24° 26' N,
112° 55' E, course about 310°, believed to be northbound (or course 352°) and
drew ahead as then crossed to our port side.

September 13, 1942 At 1337 In Bombing Restriction area one PBY, bearing 255° T,
5 miles, position angle about 3°. Plane on southerly course. About 20
minutes on our starboard bow. Disappeared from sight about 1/2 to 1/4 hr be
Position when sighted: 24° 23' N, 112° 20' E.

(6) 1

— page 190 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 7 - FIRING OF TORPEDOES

August 2, 1942 OFF K.M.S. in 2° 44' S, 118° 36' E. Tanker on course 21°,
speed 7.5; own course 15°, torpedoes set at 10' speed 24 kt.
details as follows:

Firing time: | 18-37-29 | 18-38-01 | 18-38-14 | 18-38-27
Tube No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4
Point of aim | 1/4 L inside stern | 1/4 L inside bow | 1/4 L outside stern | 1/4 L
| | | | inside bow
Bearing | 351 | 352 | 352 | 355
Gyro angle | 006 | 007 | 007 | 009
Track angle | 126S | 127S | 127S | 129S
Torpedo run * | 5100 | 5150 | 5100 | 5100

# Small bow; others 1.r.c.
* No acceleration on machine. One violent explosion at 18-4-3, indicating
torpedo run of about 3000 yards for first torpedo, or as little
as 2100 yards. Firing commenced 27 minutes after sunset and in
total darkness. Firing was a matter of guesswork and determination
which had been conducted at full speed. With careful layer
violent and peculiar characteristic of explosion, and it is
believed that this was a most satisfactory hit. At no time did
depth watching target, white light rather. Sound reported all torpedoes
running. Efforts made to confirm. See [UNCLEAR: 24-47] for efforts made to
confirm.

August 3, 1942 OFF K.M.S. entrance to BALIKPAPAN in 4° 43' S, 118° 47' E.
Tanker or White Factory on course 350° at 7.5 knots, own course 090°, own
speed 3 knots, torpedoes set at 14 feet, Mk. XIV, details as follows:

Firing time: | 05-52-00 | 05-52-05 | 05-52-22
Tube No. | 1 | 2 | 3
Point of aim | CT | 1/4 L aft of stern | 1/4 L aft of bow
Bearing | 336 | 336 | 340
Gyro angle | 345.5 | 345 | 350
Track angle | 101.5 S | 101 S | 106 S
Torpedo run | 2800 | 2800 | 2750

# Mark XIV small bow; others 1.r.c.
Firing was submerged at periscope depth watching target; periscope applied with
periscope, white light method. Sound reported all running. I could not make
out in total darkness. I saw one torpedo hook to left on 05-55-15 (was
still on firing course). I think this was the second
one on 320 relative (S) still on firing course). I think this was the second
one fire. The first torpedo had a perfect run and made a perfect
hit on the tanker at about the stack and one to the right of it inter-
sected the target at the bow. Sound in the Torpedo Officer reported one
more than a perfect interception with the target screws. There was an explosion

(7) 1

— page 191 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

AUGUST 3, 1942 (Continued)

until 05-57-50 when there were two splashes at 05-58-15 there was
a third splash, but I could find no splashes (Periscope torpedoes at end
of run?). They were well distant and I remained at periscope depth to watch
DD in endeavor to throw a high at us. At 05-57-10 a tanker bore 11° T, 6000 yards
about 137° T. At 05-57-15 tanker turned back to 155° T. DD at 05-58-15
was still turning right with red flag flying from foremast. DD
increased speed. DD still not heading for torpedo at 550 I fired the fourth
torpedo.

Our course 90°
Our speed 3
Target course 191.5
Target speed 12

Point of aim 1/4 L amidships
Gyro angle 19°
Bearing 90°
Track angle 97.5
Torpedo run 2700
War head

I could never find this target's wake but a sound reported hit, straight run.
I remained at periscope depth, hoping to get a rule on DD. I took
a shot at DD but could not observe DD with 2° up. No hit
sounded at 6 knots with full rudder in order to avoid or throw
06-04-30 an explosion was heard. DD was still not heading for
submarines and I ordered deep.

August 9, 1942 off Tinian, 4000 ton tanker in about 3° 10', 110° 05' on
course 302° T, speed 8, our course 320°, speed 3, depth setting 2 feet, high
speed, details as follows:

| Firing time | 05-45-33 | 05-45-47 | 05-46-5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tube No. | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| Point of aim | MOT | 1/4 L astern | 1/4 L ahead |
| Bearing | 168.3 | 160.2 | 170.5 |
| Gyro angle | 176 | 175 | 185 |
| Track angle | 740 | 730 | 735 |
| Torpedo run | 1300 | 1300 | 1300 |
| War head | L.R.C. | L.R.C. | C.R.C. |

Sound reported all running hot, straight and normal. Firing was at periscope
depth watching target, applying speed with periscope. I could not find their
wakes for the track showed they were laying out. At 0547 sound reported
a "PLOP". No explosion heard in ship. Tanker was very healthy,
turning away and firing at us with his stern gun. I watched four salvos. First
flash would have come to be 3" fire to about 5 seconds. All were
short. Target then turned towards and headed for L.A.M. at
05-51-30 one heavy explosion (torpedo at end of run?). No splash visible.

(7) 2

— page 192 —
SECRET

U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECTION 7 - DETAILS OF ATTACKS (Continued)

August 14, 1942. In northern entrance SIBUTU PASSAGE on British SS KINCHIN of
3113 tons (gross); 7500-ton tanker in about 5° 07' N, 119° 37' E, on course
235°, speed 3; depth setting 6 feet, high speed,
details as follows:

| | 11-28-11 | 11-28-32 |
|---|---|---|
| Tube No. | 8 | 5 |
| Point of aim | Foremost | Mainmast |
| Bearing | 185.3 | 185.8 |
| Gyro angle | 195 | 195.5 |
| Track angle | 7.8 | 71.5 S |
| Torpedo run | 950 | 1200 |
| Torpedo speed | Small | Large |

Sound reported all running hot, straight and normal. No wake not visible
through smoke screen put out by torpedoes. Special note made of periscope,
white light method. At 11-29-15 no violent explosion, too much
flying objects and escaping steam from after portion of ship. Deck broke
midway between mainmast and counter stern. Ship turned away. His
propeller stopped. At 12-05, the ports in
steering on fine rudder. About one foot of track was visible in the
water. At 12-28-55 delivered second attack with large torpedo from tube 7. (Farther
than us).
Our heading 15
Our speed 3.3
Torpedo run 1500
Track angle 180°
Gyro angle 180°
Bearing 180°
Point of aim L.M.M.

Sound reported torpedo running hot,
straight and normal. I watched for
until 40 seconds after firing, half
way between us and target. (She was
filled with ocean swell and only slight
white caps. This torpedo did not
smoke.

Torpedo wake ran under target at after corner of passenger quarters, about 5
feet aft of point of aim. Torpedo was set at 8 feet. Sound reported explosion
at 12-38-1; not much in ship. By actual inspection after firing, estimated
draft to this point to be 17 feet (Normal water line was 15 feet, 15 feet
above keel as surveyed by roll in draft marks formal which were in
numerals for feet and inches for meters). She finally sank with heavy explo-
sions at 1645 in 4° 56' N, 119° 36' E.

August 24, 1942. In SIBUTU PASSAGE 4° 43' N, 119° 36' E. Tanker about 5
tons, on course 107°, speed 4.5; our course 107°, our speed 4.5; depth
setting 6 feet, high speed, details as follows (moonlight, surface).

LZT 23-52-12
Tube No. 1
Point of aim NOT
Bearing
Gyro angle
Track angle 180°
Torpedo run 3300
Torpedo speed Small

(7) 3

— page 193 —
U.S.S. SEALION

SECRET
SECTION 7 - ATTACKS (Continued)
August 24, 1942 (Continued)

Sound reported straight, normal run. Periscope cross wire still on target as
this torpedo should have exploded. At 4 39s after firing target bearing 185°
that it had not exploded. I felt that great pains had been taken to insure correct
set-up and that it was a good shot. It is realized that natural law of averages
range is too great to warrant much chance of hitting. Such type of attack is
not to be attempted again. It was only used this time because I fumbled the
straight bow attack. Reasons: (1) Heavily smoking target taking moonlight run in
very poor (2) Impression that I was too close to target (3) Impression that
target had zero gyro just as I was about to fire (4) Inability to obtain
maneuver to get a good set-up into target and (5) I let target
get by to point where gyro angle too great 290° in track angle too large.
I then called it off in favor of the 1° track attempt which also failed.

August 25, 1942 Attacked same ship again in 3° 55' - 118° 59', on route
SIBUYAN to MANILA. Target course 245°, speed 9.5. On course 325°, speed
4. Depth 10 feet.

| LZT | 7-6-19 | 7-5-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Tube No. | 6 | 5 |
| Point of Aim | 1/8 L inside stern | 1/8 L inside stern |
| Bearing | 199.6 | 200.6 |
| Gyro Angle | 0.6 | 0.6 |
| Track Angle | 118.5 | 118.5 |
| Torpedo Run | 1300 | 1300 |
| T.R. Heads | L.R.C. | L.R.C. |
| Sound reported | No | No |

At 7-6-19 one torpedo exploded between bow and midship of target, about 1/3
length aft. Explosion did not sound violent as the ship did not stop, the
former third bursting into flames and then burning in common with the entire
ship. Seen burning from periscope at 7-7-10. It is believed
that the other torpedo exploded at 7-11-27 (4 minutes after firing) and
with little violence, but it was still firing. The ship was still
there burning but no smoke nor flame was visible in terms which was rough.

(7) 4

— page 194 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 8 * MEASURES AND STEPS TAKEN TO AVOID

August 3, 1942. See NARRATIVE 0604 et seq for details. This DD (did not re)
only 1200-1500 yds on, dead ahead, in never at forward of our beam.

August 9, 1942. See NARRATIVE 0422 et seq. This TROOP TRANSPORT (Prob-
total of 13 or 14 ships) was in the center of formation when torpedo
them at about 5500 yards. Ho pings on 18 kcs.

August 10, 1942. See NARRATIVE 0955. Excellent sound conditions. Rinin
audible to 14 miles. When range had closed to 4000 yards velocity coin-
to 200 feet (Doubt lay in encountered at 120 feet) and hitting her at bottom.

(6) 1

— page 195 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 9 - MAJOR DEFECTS EXPERIENCED

July 28, 1942 N. 3 main engine out of commission from 1530 this date to 2300
on August 1 incident to replacement of fresh water cooler core assembly, broken
cylinder head stud No. 1 cylinder, scored cylinder, piston out of round, piston
pin and connecting rod bearings.

July 27, 1942 3" 50 c. gun misfired. Caused by too much grease packed in
firing pin. Could have been serious.

August 1, 1942 Attack periscope fogged intermittently in "High Power". Checked
pressure to 81b/sq in and bled down to 61b/sq.in. This helped some but defect
persisted thruout that patrol. Will replace on return to base.

September 1, 1942 N. 4 main engine out of commission from 1000 to 2300 incident
replacement of Connecting Rod and Piston Pin bearing on No. 13 unit.

September 12, 1942 Leaky lubricating oil cooler starboard reduction gear out
of commission for 5 hours and limited ship's speed to 8 knots
for this period. A by-pass should be fitted on these coolers which would permit
their replacement while reduction gear is rotating, thus permitting a higher speed
to be maintained during time a casualty is being remedied. As it is, the "A" ring
idler must be slowed to such a speed as will not cause the propeller on the
side to rotate.

(9) 1

— page 196 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SECRET
SECTION 10 * REMARKS (Continued)

NAVIGATIONAL POSITIONS: Current instructions require appending ship's posit-
at 0800, 1200 and 2000 to each day's narrative. These positions are of little
significance in wartime operation in this area as they are not close to land.
More coincidentally, it is recommended that a position of diving or surface
with reference to some nearby landmark (or latitude & longitude of such
position) be required in the narrative and the 0800, 1200 and 2000 positions
be waived. These merely serve to clutter up the report and lengthen
unnecessarily.

RECOMMENDED ALTERATION TO ASSIST APPROACH: Lieutenant Holden has suggested
that a lubber's line be engraved on the forward side of the periscope barrel
the azimuth circle engraved with a supplemental scale. This will assist
one to call off the present relative bearing and call off the relative
to be taken and to "match the white line" for the target bearing transmittal.
The Commanding Officer strongly recommends that this be done. When periscope
trained forward there is not room for assistant approach officer to get behind
Captain to "match white line" and call off bearing. This is particularly
important in night work where it is fatal for the Captain to remove his eye
from eyepiece, or from under hood (if such be fitted). It is not necessary to
check the white line on each observation of the target and it has been the
experience of this ship that it is most always necessary to adjust it, in
order to bring the center of the target bearing transmitter into co-incidence
with the lubber's line of the periscope.

(10) 2

— page 198 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

DECLASSIFIED
SECTION II * ROUTE FOLLOWED

On July 25, 1942 departed FREMANTLE, and headed north for LOMBOK STRAIT
via Lombok restriction lane, lat. 20° S, lon. 114° E. After clearing
LOMBOK STRAIT, headed for CAPE TILLI, passing SIBUTU REEF to starboard.
Off CAPE TILLI, course was reversed toward northwestern entrance of MAKASSAR STRAIT
(KALOPASING LIGHT) in pursuit of target. Upon leaving northwestern MAKASSAR
STRAIT, headed north through MAKASSAR STRAIT toward a TARAKAN tanker. On
August 24, 1942 made south toward TARAKAN in pursuit of a tanker. On August
25, 1942 proceeded north to resume patrol of SIBUTU PASSAGE.

On September 1, 1942 headed toward TARAKAN. After spending one day off
TARAKAN continued south through MAKASSAR STRAIT. Off CAPE TILLI, course was
reversed toward KALOPASING LIGHT. After spending several days in this area covering
the entrance to MAKASSAR STRAIT, made for BILL ROCK ten miles to port.
Course was then set for LOMBOK
STRAIT. After clearing LOMBOK STRAIT course was set for FREMANTLE, via
lat. 20° S, long. 112° E and bombing restriction lane.

(11) 1

— page 199 —
FC5-2/SS197/A16-3
Serial (S-13)
SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWO
U.S.S. SARGO, Flagship,
September 23, 1942.

S E C R E T

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO SEAWOLF Serial S-06
of September 15, 1942.

From: Commander Submarine Squadron T O.
To : Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : Commander Submarines, Southwest Pacific.
(Commander Task Force 51)

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS197) - War Diary of Sixth
War Patrol, period July 25 to September 15, 1942.

1. This was the Sixth War Patrol of the SEAWOLF and covered
a period of fifty-one days.

2. With SEAWOLF heading north and target heading south the
tanker sighted near Cape William just before sunset on 2 August was
not located until abeam and at a range of 12000 yards. The succeeding
attack, from data given in the report, had extremely remote possi-
bilities of success because of excessive range and improbability of
getting necessarily accurate speed data from the type of approach
conducted. In lieu of the commanding officers conclusion that he
had hit this ship, the better probability is that it was the same ship
as the whaler which was contacted during the night and again unsuccess-
fully attacked the following morning with a total expenditure of 8
torpedoes, all fired at excessive range. The commanding officer's
decision not to press home the attack after he had regained contact
during the night is illustrative of the handicap, based on previous
experiences, which submarine captains are working under due to excess-
ive silhouette of our standard type submarines.

3. The dawn attack on 4000 ton tanker on 9 August was made
after contact at 4000 yards with submarine 10° on port bow. From
this data, considering that the submarine crossed over and opened
out to a range of 1300 yards with a 75° starboard track and fired
a three tube spread 27 minutes later, it would appear that the
target speed estimate of 8 knots was too high and that misses were
due to control errors.

4. The attack in Sibutu on 14 August was well executed and
resulted in sinking of 3113 tons with one out of three torpedoes
fired. The experience of firing third torpedo at ship dead in water

- 1 -

— page 200 —
FC5-2/SS197/A16-3
Serial (S-13)

S E C R E T                                                              September 23, 1942.

Subject:      U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS197) - War Diary of Sixth
              War Patrol, period July 25 to September 15, 1942.

— page 201 —
65561

SUBMARINES, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
U.S.S. SARGO (SS188) FLAGSHIP

September 30, 1942.

SSWP/A16-3
Serial S-0058

S-E-C-R-E-T

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO SEAWOLF Secret letter
SS192/A16-3(S-06) of 9-15-42.

From: The Commander Submarines, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS197) - War Diary of Sixth War
         Patrol - Period July 25 to September 15, 1942.

1. The failure of SEAWOLF to inflict greater damage on
the enemy can be attributed principally to improper solution of
the fire control problem. Decisions to fire were made when ex-
cessive range existed and when lack of reliable data indicated
that only a bare possibility of hitting could result. TIDORI
Class destroyer in sight for several hours on August 9 should
have been attacked.

2. In SEAWOLF attack on 5000 ton, 8.5 knot tanker on
August 24 it appears that, having missed the first attack, surface
pursuit for the subsequent 180° track attack would have been feas-
ible. The value of the 180° track should not be overlooked for
night attacks. A submarine coming up astern of a slower target at
night even under adverse light conditions presents its smallest
silhouette and if sighted will have the advantage if torpedoes
are fired at this time because any movement of the enemy increases
the length of the target.

3. SEAWOLF has been credited with having inflicted the
following damage on the enemy:

         SUNK
         3100 ton freighter (SS WENCHOW) - August 14
         5000 ton tanker - August 25

         PROBABLY DAMAGED
         7000 ton tanker - August 2.

                                                [SIGNATURE: C. A. LOCKWOOD, JR.]
                                                Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy
                                                Num 265

DISTRIBUTION                                    [STAMP: NOV 2 1942]
COMINCH         (2) | COMTASKFOR-51 (1)         [HANDWRITTEN: ROUTE TO- 16E3]
VICE OPNAV      (1) | COMSUBRON-2   (1)
CINCLANTFLT     (1) | COMSUBRON-5   (1)         [HANDWRITTEN: Op File No. (SC) A16-3/23/SS197]
CINCPACFLT      (1) | COMSUBRON-6   (1)
COMSOUWESPACFOR (1) | DIVCOMS, RON2 (1)         [HANDWRITTEN: Rec. No. 65358]
COMSOUWESFLT    (1) | DIVCOMS, RON6 (1)
COMSUBPAC       (5) | EACH S/M W.A. (1)         [HANDWRITTEN: Copy No. 1 of 1]
COMSUBSLANT     (2)                             [HANDWRITTEN: P.W.D. OM-114E]

— page 202 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

SS197/A16-3
Serial S-07                                                 December 1, 1942.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]                                      DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST.5510.C
                                                          BY [HANDWRITTEN: D/07054] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 9/10/72]

From:         Commanding Officer.
To :          Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject:      U.S.S. SEAWOLF War Diary (7th War Patrol Report).

Enclosures:   (A) Sections 1, 4 to 11 inc. of War Diary.
              (B) Track Charts for Approaches on October 17, November
                  2, November 3 (2), November 8, November 11 and
                  November 19.
              (C) Track Charts for Attacks on October 17, November 2,
                  November 3 (3), November 3 (1), November 8, November
                  19.

1.            Enclosures (A) to (C) inclusive are forwarded herewith.
There were no remarks under Sections 2 (Weather) and 3 (Tidal Information).
These pages are omitted.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 44747]

— page 203 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

CONFIDENTIAL
Section 1 - Narrative

Arrived FREMANTLE, W. A. September 15 for refit by HOLLAND after patrol of 53
days. Overhaul period embraced operations under way on 2 days incident to Sound
Survey and Flashing. Departed FREMANTLE October 7 on the following mission:

"2. proceed to PEARL HARBOR to become a part of SUBMARINES,
PACIFIC FLEET successive conduct offensive patrol enroute, furnish-
ing information of enemy movements when this can be accomplished
without jeopardy to the primary task.

3. (a)
(1) proceed north along EASTERN side of BOBBING RESTRICTION
LANE to Latitude twenty-two degrees south thence to EXMOUTH GULF and
fuel to capacity.

(2) Proceed DAVAO via LOMBOK STRAIT, MAKASSAR CITY, BALIKPAPAN,
TANGKALIHAT, TARAKAN conducting offensive patrols enroute and on
stations for as many days as practicable. Operate at least two
weeks in MAKASSAR-TARAKAN area including four days off TARAKAN.

(3) Patrol GULF OF DAVAO and depart on 8 November for PALAU.
Reconnoiter PALAU until 14 November then proceed YAP and conduct
patrol until 16 November. Then proceed via Great Circle Course to
PEARL and arrive about 30 November.

(4) Destroy enemy forces encountered including merchant shipping. "

October 7, 1942 FREMANTLE to EXMOUTH (Zone -9)
0834 Under way.
1048 Made quick dive and commenced first of three practice approaches.
1452 Surfaced and received orders from CSS2 to proceed as previously directed.
8 officers and 66 men on board. 12 Mark XIV torpedoes in forward room and
8 Mark IX Mod. 1 torpedoes in after room. 2000 Position 31°06'S, 114°30'E.
Fuel used 2058. Miles steamed 173.6.

October 8, 1942 FREMANTLE to EXMOUTH (Zone -9)
1612 Dived for battle problems and drills.
1721 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 28°46'S, 113°02'E; 1200 28°09'S, 112°53'E; 2000
26°57'S, 112°44'E. Fuel used 2974. Miles steamed 314.3.

October 9, 1942 FREMANTLE to EXMOUTH (Zone -9)
1525 Dived for battle problems and drills.
1636 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 25°01'S, 112°34'E; 1200 24°17'S, 112°52'E; 2000
23°00'S, 113°16'E. Fuel used 2233. Miles steamed 276.9.

October 10, 1942 EXMOUTH GULF Area (Zone -9)
0805 Passed VLAMING HEAD Light abeam to starboard on course 192° proceeding to
B.Y OF REST.
1051 Made stationary dive in 7 fathoms of water to observe leakage of fuel oil from
compensating water system when using drain pump on bilges. Slight amount of

1 (1)

— page 204 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
CONFIDENTIAL
Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

October 10, 1942 (Continued)
041 Not noticeable.
1102 Surfaced.
1420 Moored to oil barge and fueled to capacity taking 800 gallons.
1425 Under way for LOMBOK. Many PBY contacts during day. RaDAR working better
      than previously. Positions: 0800 21°50'S, 114°12'E; 1200 BAY OF REST; 2000
      20°59'S, 114°15'E. Fuel used 1943. Miles steamed 254.2.

October 11, 1942 EXMOUTH to LOMBOK (Zone -9)
1030 Dived for drills and battle problem.
1127 Battle Surface. Fired 6 rounds of 3"50 cal. and some 30 caliber and 50 cal.
      Time to first shell, 1m 10s. Positions: 0800 18°26'S, 114°28'E; 1200 17°45'S,
      114°30'E; 2000 15°54'S, 114°44'E. Fuel used 3021. Miles steamed 328.

October 12, 1942 EXMOUTH to LOMBOK (Zone -9)
1606 Dived for training and drills.
1724 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 13°02'S, 115°09'E; 1200 12°08'S, 115°06'E; 2000
      10°21'S, 115°18'E. Fuel used 3602. Miles steamed 339.1.

October 13, 1942 LOMBOK STRAIT and Approaches (Zone -9)
0551 Dived in LOMBOK STRAIT and continued northbound transit.
1949 Surfaced NT. AGUNG bearing 258°T, 22 miles.
2400 Set clocks back to Zone -8.
2310 Sighted southbound ship close aboard on port bow. Went to Battle Stations and
      Emergency speed with right full rudder.
2311 Identified ship as SARGO or SEADRAGON about 600 yards to westward of us, south-
      bound. He also turned away and rapidly disappeared. Positions: 0800 8°35'S,
      115°46'E; 1200 8°32'S, 115°48'E, 2000 8°15'S, 115°53'E. Fuel used 1239.
      Miles steamed 154.7.

October 14, 1942 LOMBOK to MAKASSAR (Zone -8)
0526 Dived to patrol route from SURABAYA to AMBON via passage north of ZANDBUIS
      Banks (7°45'S, 116°40'E). MOUNT RINJANI on LOMBOK in sight.
1841 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 7°42'S, 116°45'E; 1200 7°39'S, 116°47'E, 2000
      7°38'S, 116°34'E. Fuel used 475. Miles steamed 109.7.

October 15, 1942 LOMBOK to MAKASSAR (Zone -8)
0530 Dived to patrol across route from SURABAYA West Gate and JAVA SEA to AMBON via
      POSTILLON ISLAND and along route from MAKASSAR to LOMBOK or MADURA STRAITS.
      Positions: 0800 6°49'S, 117°46'E; 1200 6°45'S, 117°54'E; 2000 6°35'S, 118°11'E.
      Fuel used 724. Miles steamed 136.5.

October 16, 1942 Approaches MAKASSAR CITY (Zone -8)
0149 When about 13 miles NW of DE BRIL ROCK sighted what appeared to be southbound
      submarine and turned away. From time, location and message traffic decided
      that ship was probably SARGO bound for LOMBOK via DE BRIL ROCK.
0534 Dived in Southwestern Approaches, PULU DAYANG DAYANGAN LIGHT 021°T, 14 miles.
0545 Sunrise. Patrolled back and forth across southwestern approaches, many Vintas
      in sight.
1831 Surfaced. PULU DAYANG DAYANGAN 061° T, 17 miles. Positions: 0800 5°36'S,
      119°07'E; 1200 5°33'S, 119°04'E; 2000 5°28'S, 118°50'E. Fuel used 767. Miles
      steamed 132.6.

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October 17, 1942 Approaches MAKASSAR CITY (Zone -8)
0506 Dived off Western approaches PULU LANYUKANG 138° T, 3.4 miles. Patrolled
     back and forth across the two channels which pass to north and south of
     LANYUKANG.
0902 Lt. (jg) MERCER, OOD, sighted smoke inside reef bearing 131.2° T, our course
     151° T. Observed bearing change to right and decided ship was going to
     attempt exit to southward of LINGKAI (not a recommended exit); went to normal
     approach course at full speed and conducted approach (See track chart). Sea
     glassy calm with gentle swell of about one foot.
10-05-26 Unsuccessful attack with 2 torpedoes on 4000 ton AP.
10-08-30 Target turning towards us and increasing speed, bearing 254° T, 1200 yds.
     (our course 220°).
10-09-20 Target steadied on course giving me small starboard angle so abandoned
     idea of giving him one with 0° track and went deep for depth charge attack
     which did not materialize. Between 1010 and 1011 two loud explosions, believed
     to be our torpedoes at end of run. Tracked ship by sound until 1021 at which
     time lost him on 057° T.
1027 Ordered periscope depth and at 1034 found target inside reef again on south-
     easterly course, he having entered by approved channel just south of PULU
     LANYUKANG at a speed of at least 15 knots. He continued towards MAKASSAR CITY;
     we continued towards Northwestern approaches (KAPOPOSANG). Encountered south-
     easterly current and at 1413 realized that we would not make the KAPOPOSANG
     entrance by dusk so decided to return to Western Entrance in hope of getting a
     target.
1542 (Just 12 minutes after periscope observation - ship was running at 120 ft.
     with periscope observation every 15 minutes) received first of 9 depth bombs,
     none of which hit close. Sound could hear no propellers.
1632 Received the last one.
1649 At periscope depth, no ships in sight. We were bearing about 247° T, 5.5
     miles from PULU LANYUKANG at the time of this attack, about 1.8 miles to north-
     west of our attack of the forenoon.
1822 Surfaced, PULU LANYUKANG 105° T, 11 miles, heading into the sunset glow.
1837 Resumed course for Northwestern approaches and CAPE MANDAR. Positions: 0800
     4°57'S, 119°01'E; 1200 5°00'S, 118°58'E; 2000 4°45'S, 118°46'E. Fuel used 547.
     Miles steamed 112.1.

October 18, 1942 MAKASSAR STRAIT En route BALIKPAPAN (Zone -8)
0047 Moonset.
0515 Dived CAPE MANDAR 120° T, 17 miles.
1820 Surfaced CAPE MANDAR 140° T, 23 miles.
2017 Went alongside conventional MORO type containing one woman, two men and a boy
     in native dress. Believe harmless. Positions: 0800 3°27'S, 118°44'E; 1200
     3°22'S, 118°44'E; 2000 3°09'S, 118°36'E. Fuel used 81. Miles steamed 142.

October 19, 1942 MAKASSAR STRAIT En route BALIKPAPAN (Zone -8)
0130 Moonset.
0525 Dived CAPE WILLIM 123° T, 38 miles.
1818 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 2°12'S, 118°14'E; 1200 2°06'S, 118°06'E; 2000 2°08'S
     117°58'E. Fuel used 438. Miles steamed 106.0.

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October 20, 1942 Off BALIKPAPAN (Zone -8)
0233 Moonset.
0529 Dived BALIKPAPAN EX-LIGHTSHIP 301° T, 28 miles; course 325°.
1442 Sighted BALIKPAPAN Signal Station, bearing 272° and headed for it.
1630 Sighted BALIKPAPAN EX-LIGHTSHIP bearing 247° T, 7 miles, c/c to 090° T; sounding
    27 fathoms. Lightship not at moorings.
1824 Surfaced 1°18'S, 117°07'E. Positions: 0800 1°27'S, 117°19'E; 1200 1°21'S,
    117°03'E; 2000 1°18'S, 117°16'E. Fuel used 378. Miles steamed 98.2.

October 21, 1942 Off BALIKPAPAN (Zone -8)
0325 Moonset.
0525 Dived to patrol line 030°-210° from ARU BANK in accordance with verbal orders
    CSSWP.
1132 Sighted what was thought to be stick mast of sailing vinta bearing 254° T
    but changing to right; so changed to 344° T. Bearing then drew left so
    thought it was sailing vinta of which there were usually 2 or 3 in sight.
    Stick could be seen pitching in seaway and it was thought to be vinta lying
    to while fishing.
1149 Changed to 254° to head for same to examine it more closely.
1208 Sighted launch of about 50 feet length bearing 329°, 4000 yards, southbound.
    In meantime Lt. HOLDEN, OOD, decided that object bearing 254° T was MOERA
    PEGAH LIGHTSHIP with 0° angle on the bow and c/c to 164° T.to "claw off the
    bank" and to open up its starboard side for better examination. He lowered
    his periscope while turning account the proximity of the southbound launch
    and at 1218 on completing his turn he raised it to find a sub chaser bearing
    268° T, 4000 yards, northeasterly course, making high speed. Went to Battle
    Stations and came to collision course at full speed. Could have made a snap
    shot at 1229 at 2400 yards and track of about 120° but in view of short
    length, light draft, inadequacy of data, and CSSWP's urging to avoid this
    kind of shooting decided to let him pass.
1245 Secured from Battle Stations and steadied on 090°, 21 fathoms of water.
1400 After determining that buoy flying a red and white flag ("O" or "H") on top
    of a long stick was in position corresponding to that shown for MOERA PEGAH
    LIGHTSHIP changed course to 210° T.
1758 Sunset.
1825 Surfaced and ran one-hour legs back and forth in moon. Positions: 0800
    1°08'S, 117°18'E; 1200 1°03'S, 117°20'E; 2000 1°12'S, 117°20'E. Fuel used
    407. Miles steamed 99.5.

October 22, 1942 Off BALIKPAPAN (Zone -8)
    Rains in midwatch.
0520 Dived 1°16'S, 117°04'E heading for BALIKPAPAN on 232°.
0546 Sunrise.
0621 Realized that I would not be able to make MANGKALIHAT by tomorrow unless I
    patrolled to northeastward so changed to 038° to get back on line 030°
    through ARU BANK.
1312 Sighted ship bearing 121° T, angle on bow 70° starboard, 9000 yards, on
    southwesterly course and came to normal approach with full speed and rudder.

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Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

October 22, 1942 Off BALIKPAPAN (Continued)
    Conducted full speed approach on 5000 ton tanker bound northeastward on
    escorted by sub chaser (Same, or similar to that seen the
    preceding day). The best I could get was a track of 132° and 3200 yards
    torpedo run at 1404.
1432 Abandoned approach and took opposite of target course, 057°, in hopes of
    getting chance at another on this route. I was disappointed in not sighting
    this target earlier. Ship was running 100 foot patrol with observation
    every 15 minutes due to flat sea.
1816 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 1°16'S, 117°10'E; 1200 1°07'S, 117°19'E; 2000
    0°54'S, 117°44'E. Fuel used 1162. Miles steamed 153.4.

October 23, 1942 Off MANGKALIHAT (Zone -8)
0524 Dived C. MANGKALIHAT 012° T, 15 miles. Patrolled so as to pass at 3 miles
    and spent greater part of day between 3-5 miles east of light.
1826 Surfaced MANGKALIHAT light 269° T, 6 miles. Steered to enter inshore route
    to TARAKAN between BILANG BILANGAN and SAMBIT. Positions: 0800 0°51'N, 119°
    01'E; 1200 1°00'N, 119°03'E; 2000 1°08'N, 119°10'E. Fuel used 1082. Miles
    steamed 158.9.

October 24, 1942 MANGKALIHAT to TARAKAN (Zone -8)
0500 Dived inside MOERAS REEF with KARING MALALOEEN LT. 237° T, 10 miles.
1825 Surfaced about 6 miles east of DERAWAN entrance to BERAU River. About 1900
    sighted what developed to be small coal burning tug which stood towards
    TARAKAN at about 6 knots on course 336° smoking heavily. In full moonlight,
    flooded down and kept bow on him falling in astern of him and letting him
    gradually draw ahead. Believe he came out of DERAWAN entrance to TANJUNG
    REDEB. Positions: 0800 2°06'N, 118°31'E; 1200 2°09'N, 118°28'E; 2000 2°25'N,
    118°16'E. Fuel used 629. Miles steamed 125.3.

October 25, 1942 Off TARAKAN (Zone -8)
0524 Dived TARAKAN EX-LIGHTSHIP 333° T, 14 miles. Patrolled meridian 118°E, in
    accordance with verbal orders CSSWP, except in afternoon approached entrance
    to within 6 miles ex-Lightship (30 fathoms) and determined definitely that
    Lightship is absent.
1826 Surfaced TARAKAN ex-Lightship 280° T, 8 miles.
1853 Moonrise. Patrolled in and out of moon on easterly and westerly courses.
    Positions: 0800 3°05'N, 118°01'E; 1200 3°12'N, 118°03'E; 2000 3°16'N, 118°11'E.
    Fuel used 382. Miles steamed 98.2.

October 26, 1942 Off TARAKAN (Zone -8)
0540 Dived.
1819 Surfaced.
1947 Moonrise. Positions: 0800 3°25'N, 118°00'E; 1200 3°21'N, 118°00'E; 2000
    3°13'N, 118°03'E. Fuel used 373. Miles steamed 96.2.

October 27, 1942 Off TARAKAN (Zone -8)
0239 Sighted object bearing 277° T. and put stern towards.
0251 Bearing having changed to left to 259° decided it might be ship bound from

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Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

October 27, 1942 (Continued)
TARAKAN to south east. Went to collision course at 10 knots and object drew
aft.
0315 Clouds and intermittent showers obscured object. C/c 30° more to right to
199° T and increased to 13 knots, in order to shorten problem.
0512 Still raining. Decided we had crossed outside route and were on inshore route
to southeast; so changed to 156° (course from TARAKAN via route inshore of
TARATOEA).
0538 Dived in broad daylight, no ship in sight.
0550 Sunrise. Patrolled inshore route back to meridian 118° E, thence northward.
0800 Sighted a two-masted schooner about 4 miles to west of us on a south southwest-
erly course. Our contact of the midwatch was probably this ship.
1817 Surfaced and ran one-hour legs in and out of moon in approximate latitude
TARAKAN. Positions: 0800 2°46'N, 118°07'E; 1200 2°57'N, 118°00'E; 2000
3°13'N, 118°13'E. Fuel used 590. Miles steamed 111.8.

October 28, 1942 Off TARAKAN (Zone -8)
0526 Dived.
1815 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 3°15'N, 118°00'E; 1200 3°07'N, 118°02'E; 2000
3°14'N, 118°02'E. Fuel used 343. Miles steamed 88.8.

October 29, 1942 Off TARAKAN (Zone -8)
0517 Dived.
0531 Went to Battle Stations for what was thought to be two ships standing to north-
eastward out of TARAKAN.
0543 Ships were trees on BOENJOE IS.
1825 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 3°12'N, 118°01'E; 1200 3°16'N, 118°00'E; 2000
3°14'N, 118°10'E. Fuel used 294. Miles steamed 87.8.

October 30, 1942 Off TARAKAN (Zone -8)
0542 Dived.
1820 Surfaced. Patrolled half-hour legs east and west latitude of ex-Lightship
until midnight. Positions: 0800 3°18'N, 118°00'E; 1200 3°09'N, 118°00'E;
2000 3°13'N, 118°01'E. Fuel used 311. Miles steamed 88.7.

October 31, 1942 TARAKAN to DAVAO (Zone -8)
0000 Set course 061° speed 9.5, to take reverse route of tanker sunk by this
ship en route SIBUTU to TARAKAN on August 25.
1154 Having arrived longitude SIBUTU PASS c/c to 090° in order get on TARAKAN-DAVAO
route.
1340 On decoding bent on all main
engines at full speed (80% power), increased to 17.9 knots and c/c to 078° T
in order take most direct route to SAN AUGUSTIN entrance to DAVAO GULF. This
dispatch contained following information:
"- It was thought that if adverse current
did not become too severe we had a chance for interception off SAN AUGUSTIN
about 1600 on November 1st. Positions: 0800 3°52'N, 119°06'E; 1200 4°08'N,
119°38'E; 2000 4°13'N, 121°02'E. Fuel used 2653. Miles steamed 291.2.

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November 1, 1942 TARAKAN to DAVAO (Zone -8)
0700 Land in sight on port bow.
0908 Obtained fix with BALUT IS. and mountains on MINDANAO and established adverse
     current of 1.8 knots from 0240 star fix.
1025 Current set 242° drift 2.8 knots (4.0 knot drift was experienced this locality
     in January). Realized I was just throwing away precious fuel for no good
     reason except possible airplane detection so at 1034 dived, BALUT IS. 032°T,
     42 miles.
1749 Surfaced.
2330 Set clocks ahead to Zone -9. Positions: 0800 4°46'N, 124°45'E; 1200 4°50'N,
     125°04'E; 2000 5°06'N, 125°25'E. Fuel used 3727. Miles steamed 209.5.

November 2, 1942 Southern Approaches DAVAO (Zone -9)
0555 Dived C. SAN AGUSTIN LIGHT 041° T, 22 miles.
0714 Experiencing strong westerly current, believed it impossible to get on S.
     AGUSTIN traffic lane prior sunset so c/c to 300° T to get on ZUMBOANGA
     COTOBATO DAVAO route.
1022 Current reversed, setting 077°, 1.8 knots; so c/c to 060° T. to make another
     try for S. AGUSTIN traffic lane.
1145 Lt. (jg) MERCER, OOD, reported smoke bearing 348° T. Exposed 12 ft. of
     periscope but could find no ship or smoke, except some suspicious clouds.
1324 Lt. SYVERSON, OOD, sighted smoke bearing 350° T. Again exposed 12 ft. and
     found topmasts. Went to Battle Stations and full speed to close S. AGUSTIN
     traffic lane. Conducted approach with intention of firing two bow tubes
     (Mark XIV torpedoes) but at 14-31-20 found myself dead ahead at 2700 yards so
     delivered attack with three stern tubes (Mark IX torpedoes). Sea flat begin-
     ning of approach; rainy in middle; rough at end.
14-41-55 Commenced successful attack on 3500 ton Freighter Transport out bound from
     DAVAO.
1452 Took picture of ship with only stern sticking out of water.
14-52-35 Ship had sunk. Counted 41 men in water, some of whom were holding
     on to wreckage. Starboard whaleboat could not be manned account heavy list to
     starboard after lowering part way. Believe it was pulled under with ship.
     Port whaleboat forward falls carried away and spilled boat about 5 minutes
     before ship sank. Believe it also broke up when ship sank. Most men came off
     collision mat or cargo net rigged down port side. Remained vicinity until
     nightfall as I expected a DD or other rescue ship to show up. No such ship
     appeared and it is believed sinking was not observed on beach. With prevail-
     ing strong southwesterly current this locality it is believed that
     there will be few, if any, survivors. Ship sank in full view of C. SAN AGUSTIN
     LIGHT which bore 062° T, 5.5 miles.
1458 On violent explosion: origin undetermined.
1843 Surfaced. Stood in to GULF. Rainy, limited visibility and moderate westerly
     breeze. Positions: 0800 6°06'N, 126°01'E; 1200 6°12'N, 125°59'E; 2000 6°23'N,
     126°07'E. Fuel used 629. Miles steamed 122.4.

November 3, 1942 GULF of DAVAO (Zone -9)
0140 Moonrise.
0525 Dived 12 miles south of DAVAO HARBOR LIGHT and stood to northward keeping
     outside 300 fathoms (faired in on Chart 4624) in order to try to establish

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November 3, 1942 (Continued)
Existence of swept channel before going into shallower water. Experienced
little or no current (low water slack 0911).
0629 Motor boat flying JAP ensign bearing 244° T, 2 miles, headed south.
0844 DAVAO HARBOR LIGHT (STA. ANNA) 011° T, 5.9 miles). No channel yet established
at northern limit of 300 fathom curve. Two small freighters in DAVAO
Harbor, anchored off; and some small shipping inshore of these which later
developed to be at least two vessels of anti-sub character. One large ship
at anchor TALOMO BAY. Latter was definitely more important and easier to
attack, so laid course accordingly. Good surface chop on water. Wind from
north.
0921 Battle Stations.
1050 Commenced first of three successful attacks on 0300 ton motor vessel. First
hit in machinery spaces just under stack. Ship listed 30° to starboard,
towards us, and settled in water about 5 feet. JAPS manned bow and stern guns
and commenced firing at us. Ship rapidly righted itself. Water flat inside
bay. We withdrew to south and reloaded and came in again for second attack.
His shells make much bigger splash than do ours and make a bigger racket on
exploding than any I have yet observed. On second approach the after gun was
firing about 500 yards to port of us and the forward gun about 500 yards to
starboard. Wind freshening and water getting rougher.
1131 Made second attack; from port side. Torpedo hit in after part of ship and
when smoke cleared away after gun platform and entire topside was clear of
people. Forward gun still manned but not firing. Dock is lined with people.
Turned around to deliver stern tube attack with a Mark IX as it is evident
that ship can take a lot of punishment. Now down by stern about 10 feet but
not sinking as she should. Anchor chain is "up and down."
1139 Ship deserted except for one or two people on forecastle head, two Jacob's
ladders rigged on port side. Two or three people on flying bridge in khaki.
Ship now flying VICTOR at midships halyard, Japanese ensigns which were
flying at foretruck, main truck and flag staff are down. Halyards probably
carried away by force of explosions. Five boats are carrying people to dock.
11-43-55 Delivered third attack, a Mark IX torpedo exploding in forward cargo
spaces and started fire as well as flooding forward.
1157 Secured from Battle Stations.
1200 Explosion, source unknown.
1205 Last observation of ship. Took pictures. Settling by the bow; about half of
original free-board, forward half of ship smoking heavily.
1205 Sighted ship bearing 073° T, course south, speed high, 1 tripod mast, 1 stack.
1208 Sighted 3 planes on port quarter, our course 190°. Two are flying away from
us and one is coming us.
1209 Ordered 120 feet.
1220 Received first of 5 depth charges. Went to 200 feet. Two ships made runs on
us until 1405, when both faded out to southeast.
1504 Ordered periscope depth and 1518 secured from depth charge quarters. Sea has
a good chop.
1515 Smoke bearing 220° T. Ship 201° T, large starboard angle, 7 miles.
1519 Exposed 12 foot of periscope in order search for motor ship of morning attack.
Not visible in harbor but range is excessive (8-9 miles).

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Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

November 3, 1942 (Continued)
1542 Ship sighted at 1515 is standing in. Went to Battle Stations. Ship similar
     to that observed at 1205 is well over on starboard side of him and unidentified
     smoke is on his port side well inshore. Conducted approach with intentions of
     firing two bow tubes but at 1558 found myself too close to target track and
     turned around to present stern. Surface of water much flatter and I made very
     brief exposures and did not search for other ships.
16-12-03 Completed what is believed to have been successful attack on 5000 ton
     Freighter Transport.
16-12-18 Ordered 150 feet as second fish fired was running circular.
16-14-10 One explosion (timed exactly right for third fish - 1950 yard run estab-
     lished accurately by "ping" ranging). 30 seconds later another explosion
     which I believe to have been a secondary explosion in the target.
16-14-16 The first of a prolonged series of depth charges and/or depth bombs. A
     total of 22 between this time and 1701. Two ships made runs. Some were close.
1815 Periscope depth.
1853 Smoke 024° T.
1902 Surfaced 6°47'N, 125°38'E. Rainy, squally and limited visibility.
1904 LOBER (CMM), port after lookout, reported ship on port quarter.
1905 I made out a ship with one stack smoking heavily and heading in our direction
     with a bone in his teeth, range about 1500 yards. Dived to 100 feet. Ship
     came under our stern. Lost him at 1916.
2110 Surfaced (6°43'N, 125°41'E) and stood out on 2 engines, course 140° T. Fresh
     breeze from northeast, rain squalls, moderate sea, limited visibility - all
     in our favor. Withdrew to southern approaches in order to rest myself and
     crew and effect necessary repairs to Bow Plane Tilting Panel, Trim and Drain
     Pumps, leaking section drain piping, leaky main motor air cooler, one air
     conditioning plant. Headaches were prevalent (probably account too rapid
     release of excessive pressure on first surfacing) and prickly heat is rampant.
     Positions: 0800 6°57'N, 125°36'E; 1200 7°01'N, 125°33'E; 2000 6°45'N, 125°
     40'E. Fuel used 441. Miles steamed 106.4.
November 4, 1942 Southern Approaches DAVAO GULF (Zone -9).
0426 Dived (5°44'N, 125°58'E).
1852 Surfaced and proceeded towards TARAKAN as I desired NIPS to "cut us in" on
     this course while transmitting our/activity since October 7. Paraphrase
     follows:

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Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

November 4, 1942 (Continued)
2340 Completed transmission and at 2400 c/c to north to dive off southwestern
approaches. Positions: 0800 5°36'N, 125°37'E; 1200 5°00'N, 125°51'E; 2000
5°01'N, 125°24'E. Fuel used 441. Miles steamed 99.5.

November 5, 1942 Southern approaches DAVAO GULF (Zone -9)
TOKIO reported sinking american submarine. I hope they meant us.
0546 Dived and headed for pass between SARANGANI ISLANDS and MINDANAO (ZAMBOANGA
DAVAO trade route).
1906 Surfaced in SARANGANI STRAIT and proceeded to take position off Cape S. AGUSTIN
for next day. Positions: 0800 5°14'N, 124°55'E; 1200 5°21'N, 125°03'E; 2000
5°29'N, 125°20'E. Fuel used 420. Miles steamed 105.4.

November 6, 1942 GULF OF DAVAO (Zone -9)
0531 Dived off SAN AGUSTIN light 124° T, 12 miles to patrol DAVAO-PALAU and JAPAN
trade route.
1858 Surfaced S. SAN AGUSTIN 125° T, 14 miles and proceeded towards head of gulf.
Positions: 0800 6°27'N, 126°03'E; 1200 6°26'N, 126°01'E; 2000 6°26'N, 125°58'E.
Fuel used 439. Miles steamed 105.3.

November 7, 1942 GULF OF DAVAO (Zone -9)
0534 Dived South End TALICUD IS. 342° T, 8 miles; to patrol across both traffic
routes entering DAVAO.
1126 Having found no traffic decided to go inside again, hoping that surface of sea
(which was mirror like) would improve. Proceeded up same route followed on
November 3.
1257 Sighted smoke bearing 005° T.
1400 With southern end TALICUD 008° T, 6 miles made out minesweep bearing 017° T,
5 miles headed towards us. Decided that plane must have picked us up so went
to 150 feet and reversed course to 152° T. Swept went south between us and
TALICUD close aboard, making 150 rpm.
1450 Screws faded out on 130° T.
1521 At periscope depth.
1535 Exposed 12 feet of periscope in order to closely examine TALOMO BAY and DAVAO
Harbor. Could not find our Motor Ship of Nov. 3. Continued to southward as I
wanted to be clear of TALICUD at nightfall. This island, which is described
in the pilot as "sparsely inhabited" is now well cleared, under cultivation,
and several houses appear on the bluffs.
1905 Surfaced, south end TALICUD 008°, 9 miles. Much rain during night. Positions:
0800 6°49'N, 125°43'E; 1200 6°50'N, 125°40'E; 2000 6°44'N, 125°42'E. Fuel
used 325. Miles steamed 86.4.

November 8, 1942 GULF OF DAVAO (Zone -9)
0222 Then on course 332° with south end of TALICUD 346° T, 17 miles, Ensign CASLER,
OOD, sighted minesweep on port quarter headed for us at about 3000 yards.
Dived to 100 feet. It is problematic whether or not he saw us. Last record of
screws is at 0310, high speed, bearing 230° T. In the meantime we reversed
course and stood out with the idea of operating DAVAO-SAN AGUSTIN line.
Remained submerged.
0837 A small power boat to northeast of us, 3 miles; alternately running and stop-

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF
CONFIDENTIAL

Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

November 6, 1942 (Continued)
ping. Suspected listening device. Boat gradually worked in towards D.V.O.
1014 Battle Stations for smoke and tops bearing 339° T. Conducted approach on
5000 ton Freighter Passenger ship which was one observed in D.V.O Harbor on
Nov. 3. He was escorted by one minesweep similar to those observed before.
He zigged radically between courses 100° T and 194° T (base course about
140° T; but he was never on it). Four minutes was the most time he was
observed to be on the same course. Minimum zig observed 10°, maximum 60°.
Minesweep kept steady course and speed about 3000 yards ahead of HARU. At
11-03-20 I was in fair position, if he'd zig left a little (my course 055°, true
bearing 014°, 20° starboard, 1550 yards.) But in less than 2 minutes he had
come at me.
11-05-15 Bearing 013°.8 T, angle on bow 0°, 925 yards. Ordered 120 feet and
standard speed to open track for stern tube attack but then target turned
left and came up my port side and crossed bow very close aboard. He was a
tough ship to lose. But at 1123 sighted an inbound ship bearing 157° T,
14000 yards.
12-01-57 Commenced first successful attack.
12-18-20 Delivered second successful attack in sight
12-20-15 Ship (4000 tons) is sunk. Only survivors/in port whaleboat (about 12).
Ship had a large number of people aboard; all dressed in white; well disci-
plined. First hit was in (or under) boiler room. Starboard whaleboat after
falls carried away and ship appeared to bend upwards in the middle. Stern
streamed out of stack and uptakes at base of stack. Second hit was under
bow and she made water forward rapidly (and over all). Port whaleboat pulled
away from ship. Bow run was blown overboard by second hit. The after gun
went right to work on us, and so did an AA gun on flying bridge (about 20mm).
People on board did not panic. A number went to work in the forward well
deck clearing two large power boats from gripes. Stern gun fired case ammunition and believe it was
shrapnel as they littered the water with many short splashes. Shell explos-
ions were noisy. A number of men in the waist of the ship were engaged in
throwing overboard floating material. Ship settled to the level of the
anchor hawse pipes and swung around with an appreciable trim by bow. As I
had one fish (Mark IX) left in the after room which did not promise to be
any good to me by itself I decided to fire it into the ship to insure its
sinking while I could see it. In the meantime we had picked up a minesweeper
coming at good speed from the direction of the shore bearing 118° T. This
third torpedo ran hot and straight. They saw it coming and all hands ran for
the middle and the air was filled with water and debris to at least twice the height of the vessel.
When the air cleared there was no more ship; only much refuse and one troop
landing barge in water. No one in it. One minute and 15 seconds after this
last torpedo hit one very loud, violent and long sustained explosion, leading
me to believe that ship carried high explosives. Minesweep 4 miles, 108° T.
I went to 120 feet and course south to get away from here, in anticipation
airplane trouble. Sweeper made first run on our port quarter and at 1249
missed us badly with two charges.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 1 -- Narrative (Continued)

November 8, 1942 (Continued)
Went to 150 feet.
1244 One more missed badly. Ship made next run up our starboard quarter.
1309 Dropped one far astern.
1344 One far off. Heard screws until 1515. One ship making runs.
1528 One charge far astern. Last one.
1857 Surfaced. C. SAN AGUSTIN 031° T, 14 miles and stood to south at 5 knots.

Changed course to east to work back in to DAVAO-PALAU route, en route DAVAO.
Increased speed to 13.
2319 Slowed to 9 knots. Positions: 0800 6°26'N, 125°58'E; 1200 6°21'N, 126°03'E;
     2000 5°59'N, 126°07'E. Fuel used 737. Miles steamed 117.4.

November 9, 1942 DAVAO to PALAU (Zone -9)
1211 Lieut. HOLDEN (OOD) sighted westbound Flying Boat 1-1/2 points on port bow,
     4 miles, 3°-4° high. RADAR did not pick it up. Dived to 120 feet.
1725 Surfaced.
1804 Sunset. Positions: 0800 6°19'N, 127°50' E; 1200 6°28'N, 128°30'E; 2000
     6°34'N, 129°15'E. Fuel used 1345. Miles steamed 221.5.

November 10, 1942 DAVAO to PALAU (Zone -9)
0823 Dived.
1705 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 6°57'N, 131°08'E; 1200 7°04'N, 131°20'E; 2000
     7°16'N, 132°01'E. Fuel used 1374. Miles steamed 196.4.

November 11, 1942 Enroute and off PALAU (Zone -9)
0551 Sunrise.
0615 PALAU Islands in sight. Dived and headed in for TOAGEL LUNGUI pass on
     105° T, distant 26 miles.
1100 Sighted smoke bearing 067°.4 T.
1113 Same smoke 064°.4 T. No tops or stack visible with 12 feet periscope exposed.
     Ship must be making about 10 knots on northerly course and no opportunity for
     approach exists.
1428 Sighted ship bearing 025°.7T, 30° port, 15000 yards and commenced approach.
1538 Target is small patrol vessel. Secured from Battle Stations. This ship
     patrolled on various courses and passed within 1200 yards of us. We continued
     for the channel entrance until 1627 when entrance bore 129° T, 2.7 miles and
     we stood out on 325° T. Lighthouse has been in sight (great part of day but
     every time we get ready to take a picture the rain comes down or the patrol
     vessel interferes with us.
1709 Sound reported high noise level 215° E and at 1710 found our small patrol
     vessel 181°.7 T. headed west. Raining badly but I can see the mountain tops.
1718 Sound reported screws 212° T picking up speed.
1719 One depth charge. We remained at periscope depth and at
1721 I found the patrol vessel at 4000 yards bearing 171° T. headed north-east.
1723 PC 166°.7T, course NE. 2 DDs 143° T, course 353° T. Went to Battle Stations

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

CONFIDENTIAL

Section 1 -- Narrative (Continued)

November 11, 1942 (Continued)
... and normal approach 053° T at full speed.
1729 One of these DDs 143°.4 T, 15° port, 8000 yards.
17-39-30 Observed latter 184°.1, 2900 yards, 90° S, so ordered course 270° T to
hang on.
1746 Steadied on 270° T and 17-47-15 found large CV in rain and twilight 221° T,
course 311° T, 3800 yards. I ordered full speed but I never could close the
range.
17-53-10 CV bore 249°.7 T, course 340° T, 6000 yards. Full speed again and right
to 340° T in order to hang on. My assumption at this time was that CV was
going to head for homeland.
17-58-10 CV bore 261°.2 T, 9000 yards, large starboard angle. It is now believed
that he turned about here, to the southwest.
18-02-40 262°.7 T, 9750 yards.
18-05-20 258°.8 T, 9900 yards.
18-08-30 CV about out of sight, 255°.4 T. Ordered course 285° T.
1822 Surfaced and went ahead full on 4 main engines course 270° T, speed 17.5.
1823 One DD in sight bearing 238° T well distant. At time did not know my position
with relation to reef which juts out to south and west. No land in sight
account rain and darkness.
1833 C/c to 250° T.
1854 C/c to 230° T.
1925 Took 2 engines off propulsion and started "Quick charge." Speed 12.
1947 C/c to 210° T.
1936 Commenced trying to raise NRM without success.
1953 Cleared our
2015 C/c to 185° T, rounding reef at 5-7 miles by DR.
2113 Took one engine off charge and put it on propulsion, speed 15.
2235 Completed charge and put fourth main engine back on screws, speed 16.
2245 C/c to 135° T.
2305 C/c to 122° T (PALAU-RABAUL route). Positions: 0800 7°39'N, 134°05'E; 1200
7°37'N, 134°15'E; 2000 7°26'N, 134°06'E. Fuel used 2207. Miles steamed 209.0.

November 12, 1942 In pursuit CV south of PALAU; and en route PALAU to PEARL (Zone -9)
0059 Sighted a white light on horizon bearing 242°.8 T. OOD thought light was
getting closer so held course 122° T.
0104 Light bore 246°.9 T and was drawing aft rapidly. Slowed to 1/3 speed to give
it a chance to come up.
0112 Light bore 265°.3 T, bobbing at line of horizon. Decided it must be fishing
boat but at 0136 c/c to 265° T to head for bearing on which it disappeared.
In meantime Maneuvering Room had reported readings on Main Generators 1, 2 and
4 of 10,000, 10,000, and 100,000 ohms respectively. (See Section 9; Nov. 10
et seq). Remembering SEARAVEN's fire of last May and failure of generator
cables of last August I decided to call everything off and head for PEARL.
0156 C/c to 066° T and cut out No. 3 main engine and cut out No. 4 main. No. 3 read
125,000 ohms. Proceeded at 10 knots on Nos. 3 and 4 at 50% load each.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF
CONFIDENTIAL

Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

November 12, 1942 (Continued)
0328 Heard NPM transmit our 111050 to SEAL, just 7 hrs 35 min after our transmis-
sion to VIXO.
0424 Cleared our 111859 ROUTINE to VIXO after trying unsuccessfully to raise NPM,
reading as follows:

0607 Dived.
1714 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 6°38'N, 135°13'E; 1200 6°40'N, 135°22'E; 2000
6°55'N, 135°56'E. Fuel used 1411. Miles steamed 171.0.

November 13, 1942 En route PEARL (Zone -9)
1225 With little use and portable blower cooling, main generator cables had im-
proved appreciably so decided to patrol off YAP 14th, 15th and 16th. (Sched-
uled to be there on 15th and 16th). Accordingly c/c to North. Positions:
0800 7°42'N, 137°33'E; 1200 7°56'N, 138°10'E; 2000 8°28'N, 138°06'E. Fuel
used 991. Miles steamed 198.6.

November 14, 1942 OFF YAP (Zone -9)
0456 Dived TO IL HARBOR entrance 338° T 9 miles.
0853 Commenced patrol back and forth about 2 miles off Harbor Entrance on 057°-237°
T keeping outside 300 fathoms. Took pictures. A small ship in the harbor.
1814 Surfaced TO IL HARBOR Entrance 333° T, 8 miles. Positions: 0800 9°26'N,
138°10'E; 1200 9°27'N, 138°10'E; 2000 9°16'N, 138°16'E. Fuel used 600. Miles
steamed 102.4.

November 15, 1942 OFF YAP (Zone -9)
0453 Dived 9°21'N, 138°12'E and stood in for patrol as of yesterday. Schooner is
still in the harbor.
1814 Surfaced 9°20'N, 138°15'E. Positions: 0800 9°27'N, 138°10'E; 1200 9°23'N,
138°11'E; 2000 9°15'N, 138°18'E. Fuel used 321. Miles steamed 88.2.

November 16, 1942 OFF YAP (Zone -9)
0457 Dived 9°19'N, 138°10'E and stood in for patrol as of yesterday.
0945 Observed that schooner is no longer in the harbor. Radio Station shown on
Chart in ONI 49 as being located in 9°30'.7N, 138°10'.0 E is not apparent.
There are, however, 3 closely grouped tripod masts of about 142 feet in
height located about 9°30'.9N, 138°07'.8E. Two straight masts of about 150
feet and two short stick masts appear in the location of the regularly charted
radio station. There appears to be structural concrete work proceeding on top
of Hill 159 (Chart in ONI 49 shows 16" guns here). Hill 266 appears to be
fortified, in that it is cleared on top and surfaces of ground appear to be
geometrically laid out as if grass is growing on concrete buttresses and
embrasures.
1808 Surfaced 9°30'N, 138°20'E and proceeded to pass south of FAIS IS to get on
great circle route for PEARL. Positions: 0800 9°25'N, 138°10'E; 1200 9°27'N,
138°09'E; 2000 9°29'N, 138°41'E. Fuel used 904. Miles steamed 129.5.

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U.S.S. SEAWOLF

CONFIDENTIAL

Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

November 17, 1942 En route PEARL (Zone -9)
0800 9°34'N, 140°39'E; 1200 9°50'N, 141°46'E; 2000 10°22'N, 143°20'E. Fuel
used 3660. Miles steamed 337.1.

November 18, 1942 En route PEARL (Zone -10)
0714 Sighted two masts 1/2 point on starboard bow (about 085°T). Large freighter
on southerly course. Came to normal approach and bent on all engines at
"80-90". Reading on Main Generators Nos. 1 and 2; 800,000 and 600,000 ohms
respectively. (There had been much rain to east of us)
0720 Realized we were too close to get away with present tactics so put stern on
target to open out, course 260° T.
0729 Tops just being visible from top of shears came back to 180°. Bearing drawing
aft.
0733 C/c to 160° T (Normal approach). Both ships in good rain squall.
0739 Rain clearing, target bearing drawing aft at good rate but range decreasing too
fast; came right to 175° T (Estimated target base course 162° T - speed 11).
0820 Sighted plane on port quarter 1/2° high, 10 miles away heading for MARU.
0821 Dived. Reading on Main Generators: No. 1 - 250,000 ohms, No. 2 - 200000 ohms.
0838 Plane bore 090° T, still on southerly course.
0840 Plane drew to right to 101° T. Target not in sight at periscope depth.
0840 Exposed 7 feet of periscope.
0847 Observed plane had c/c to north. Exposed 12 feet of periscope. Found tops
of target bearing 088° T and plane circling him at low altitude, then taking a
course to southwest. Went to 90 feet and standard speed for one half hour on
normal approach course; it being apparent that there was no hope unless target
should zig most radically in our direction.
0917 Could not find target with 12 feet exposed so resumed course 073° T.
0957 Sighted plane bearing 053° T on southerly course. Went to 100 feet for half
hour before resuming continuous patrol.
1718 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 10°30'N, 145°20'E; 1200 10°40'N, 145°20'E; 2000
10°56'N, 145°49'E. Fuel used 2030. Miles steamed 203.9.

November 19, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone -10)
0633 Sighted smoke 058° T and headed for it but could not again pick it up.
0648 Resumed course 073° T.
0715 Sighted tops bearing 067°.5 T and commenced surface approach, bending on all
4 main engines at 80% power, just keeping tops in sight.
0851 With this target 15 miles 002° T estimated course 137°, speed 7, sighted large
tanker bearing 047°.5 T, 14 miles and c/c to right to 145° T in order overhaul
him as he was obviously the more valuable target. By this but ground detector
voltmeter was climbing steadily and had reached 100 volts. Tanker now
bearing 047°.7 T and situation obviously hopeless so decided to drop back and
take second ship.
0933 Abandoned tanker approach and secured Nos. 1 and 2 main engines. Generator
armature circuits had dropped as follows: No. 1 from 0.7 megs to 100000 ohms,
No. 2 from 0.7 megs to 40000 ohms, after 2 hours of operation.
1107 Sighted smoke bearing 330° T and headed for same.
1134 Dived and headed back for first target which developed to be a coal burning
MARU with 8 motor fishing sampans. She spent her time going from one side to

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CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 1 -- Narrative (Continued)

November 19, 1942 (Continued)
ahead of them. Course
the latter and from back astern to up ahead of them. Course
held by sampans at about 135°
T. It's a miracle we didn't get tangled up in the trolling lines or nets.
We were in a spectacular school of fish. Sea was rough and swells were deep.
observation was difficult. We finally threaded through the sampans and got,
an attack at 14-07-50; which was not successful.
1410 Observed that target had turned away to parallel tracks. He broke a flag
hoist and then came on around to northward, although he was obviously puzzled
as to just where we were. They were slow in manning the guns.
1418 Ordered 150 feet.
1420 Received first of 4 depth charges; none of which hit close. Withdrew on
course towards PEARL.
1458 Last depth charge.
1523 Screws no longer audible.
1540 Periscope depth. Fishing fleet in sight until 1730, still working to south
eastward. Consider weather too rough to play with his outfit of not much
worth, either on surface or submerged in moonlight; so held course for PEARL.
Fuel, as well as generator cables, has become a problem.
1755 Surfaced.
2044 Cleared my traffic to NPG. Could not raise NPM. VIS acted as relay between
us and NPG for several repeats. This message read about as follows:

Positions: 0800 11°13'N, 147°36'E; 1200 11°13'N, 148°01'E; 2000 11°31'N,
148°22'E. Fuel used 2601. Miles steamed 218.2.

November 20, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone -10)
2215 Received message that we were already on such route (account a run of 1.2 hours to northward
while clearing message on November 19th, and a prevailing set and drift to
northeast and northwest) so took no further action. Positions: 0800 12°23'N,
150°29'E; 1200 12°32'N, 151°05'E; 2000 12°52'N, 152°09'E. Fuel used 2438.
Miles steamed 284.6.

November 21, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone -10)
Positions: 0800 13°27'N, 154°00'E; 1200 13°38'N, 154°31'E; 2000 13°58'N,
155°42'E. Fuel used 1958. Miles steamed 263.3.

November 22, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zones -10 and 11)
0843 Periscope lookout sighted submarine on parallel course bearing 204° R. Believe
submarine to be SEAL. Ran aft. Increased speed to 11 knots (Nos. 3 & 4 at
80-90) and ship gradually drew aft and was out of sight by noon.
1930 Set clocks ahead one hour to Zone -11. Positions: 0800 14°31'N, 157°24'E;
1200 14°34'N, 158°07'E; 2000 15°01'N, 159°12'E. Fuel used 2609. Miles
steamed 283.3.

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[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 1 - Narrative (Continued)

November 23, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone -11)
Positions: 0800 15°30'N, 161°12'E; 1200 15°38'N 161°46'E; 2000 16°03'N,
163°14'E. Fuel used 2557. Miles steamed 290.4.

November 24, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone -11)
Positions: 0800 16°11'N, 165°11'E; 1200 16°43'N, 166°09'E; 2000 17°03'N,
167°43'E. Fuel used 3137. Miles steamed 314.8.

November 25, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone -11)
Positions: 0800 17°41'N, 170°08'E; 1200 17°41'N, 170°41'E; 2000 18°05'N, 172°
20'E. Fuel used 3007. Miles steamed 316.9.

November 26, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone -12)
Positions: 0800 18°35'N, 174°46'E; 1200 18°44'N, 175°29'E; 2000 18°53'N, 177°
01'E. Fuel used 2862. Miles steamed 305.1.

November 27, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zones -12 and +12)
Positions: 0800 19°15'N, 179°17'E; 1200 19°25'N, 179°50'W; 2000 19°46'N,
178°28'W. Fuel used 3169. Miles steamed 320.2.

November 27, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone +12)
Positions: 0800 20°02'N, 175°42'W; 1200 20°07'N, 174°45'W; 2000 20°26'N, 173°
20'W. Fuel used 2862. Miles steamed 308.4.

November 28, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone +11)
Positions: 0800 20°37'N, 171°24'W; 1200 20°42'N, 170°29'W; 2000 20°54'N, 169°39'
W. Fuel used 2955. Miles steamed 301.9.

November 29, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone +11)
0905 Sighted PBY, 007° T, 6 miles, on westerly course.
1135 Dived for battery discharge at 6-hour rate and test submergence 205 ft.
1737 Slowed to 2.5 knots; cell 72A at LVL. Battery as a whole in good condition
with 11 volts to go. Capacity obtained 95.8%. Will overcharge 72A at PEARL
and try again at first opportunity. This cell has been troublesome for 1-1/2
years.
1739 Surfaced. Positions: 0800 20°59'N, 166°35'W; 1200 21°01'N, 165°57'W; 2000
21°06'N, 165°04'W. Fuel used 2520. Miles steamed 252.6.

November 30, 1942 YAP to PEARL (Zone +11)
Positions: 0800 21°09'N, 162°18'W; 1200 21°08'N, 161°37'W; 2000 21°11'N, 160°
12'W. Fuel used 2486. Miles steamed 284.6.

December 1, 1942 (SEAWOLF's 3rd birthday anniversary) YAP to PEARL (Zone +9-1/2)
0556 Sighted ship 142° T.
0601 Exchanged challenge and closed on course 150° T.
0613 Identified ship as LITCHFIELD and fell in astern for entry to port.

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DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 4- Navigation Aids

October 20, 1942 BALIKPAPEN Lightship not at moorings.

October 21, 1942 MOERA PEG.H Lightship not at mooring. A buoy flying a flag on
a high staff marks the mooring. Flag is now "O" or "H."

October 25, 1942 TARAKAN Lightship not at mooring.

November 3, 1942 TALOMO BAY, Gulf of Davao, C&GS Chart No. 4656 (1) Church is not
at place indicated on chart. Large building with white cross believed to be church
is much nearer the wharf of the OHTA Development Company than shown. (2) Only one
warehouse is shown on the chart. There are about a dozen, all of good size. (3)
The rocks off DUMALOG PT and the wharf afforded good points for lines of position.

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[HANDWRITTEN: do not distribute]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 5 - Enemy Ships Sighted

October 17, 1942: 0902 Smoke of what developed to be Freighter Transport of 4000
tons (370 ft. long - 2 measurements) coming out from MAKASSAR CITY. Passed through
barrier reef in 5°05'.5 S, 119°05'.3E on course 255° T. Subsequently changed to
296° and 304°. Speeds varied between 8 and 15. Coal burner, smoked intermittently.
Two passenger decks under a boat deck. A long row of ports under bottom passenger
deck (main deck). Two stick masts. Raised poops fore and aft but no guns visible.
Cargo handling booms triced up to masts. Very few people on board. Attacked un-
successfully at 1500 yards. He turned to ram and then changed his mind going down
past me close aboard and then went back in to MAKASSAR at 15 knots. Estimated
draft 14 feet. Sound reported twin screws and 130 rpm (After the attack). Estima-
ted masthead height 100 feet. Gray paint.

October 21, 1942: Northeast of BALIKPAPAN. Sub-chaser on course 060°, speeds 17 to
20, at 1218 in 1°03'.5 S, 117°18'.6E. Pinging on 17.8 kcs. 300 ton type of 210'
length, 5 ft. draft, tripod foremast, machine gun (multiple mount) on forecastle,
1 stack, numeral "5" on stack, flag staff all the way aft, depth charge racks aft
(and manned). Range on sighting 4000 yards (See Narrative). Chaser "hugged" the
10 fathom curve of KOETEI RIVER delta as he proceeded to east and north. Gray
paint.

October 22, 1942: Northeast of BALIKPAPAN. Same subchaser as that above (or
similar one) leading a 5000 ton tanker of 400' length and 80' masthead height by
about 1000 yards. Latter on steady course and speed. Sighted at 1314 bearing
121°T; 9000 yards on course 237° in 1°06'S, 117°26'E. Speed 9 knots. Made full
speed approach for one hour (except for 6 periscope exposures) but the best I
could get was 132° track at 3200 yards so I did not fire. Sea was flat calm when
approach commenced but built up good chop as it progressed. Tanker did not smoke.
He was in ballast. Sound reported 160 rpm for 8 knots. (Might be 80 rpm?).
Believe to be Diesel driven. Straight stem, gun on forecastle, stick foremast
in middle of well deck forward, bridge. Stick mainmast in middle of after well
deck. Catwalks in both well decks. Single stack aft at forward end of raised
stern structure. Counter stern. Gray.

November 2, 1942: DAVAO GULF at 1324 Smoke of what developed to be 3500 ton
Freighter Transport standing out of DAVAO so as to pass C. SAN AGUSTIN abeam to
port at about 5 miles. 350 feet long; 110 ft. masthead. Two stick masts with
heavy cross arms about 1/3 length from top. One stack - coal burner - smokes
heavily at irregular intervals. Central bridge forward of stack. High upper
works abaft stack. Two passenger decks, beneath a boat deck. Gun aft. One whale-
boat each side. Straight stem, counter stern. Single screw. Course 140°, speed
7.0 knots. Believe weaving zig-zag and actually on 154° speed 8.3 when attacked.
Slightly larger and not greatly different from ex-British SS WENCHOW sunk by this
ship in August. Attacked successfully at 14-41-55.

November 3, 1942: TALOMO BAY (GULF OF DAVAO) 700 yards 152° from Wharf of OHTA
Development Company at 0834, large Motorship exactly similar KINKA MARU, 514 ft.
long, 115 ft. masthead height (accurately established by echo range) riding to port
anchor in about 30 fathoms of water. Fore numeral "4" on port side of stack and
"864" on signboard on port side of bridge. 9300 tons. Flush deck with bulwarks on
forecastle head. Guns mounted forward and aft. Cruiser stern and raked stem

5 (1)

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DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 5 - Enemy Ships Sighted (Continued)

November 3, 1942 (Continued):
(WATER or mild clipper type). Large Jap ensigns flying at foretop, maintop, and
staff. Loading hemp from barges. Two stick masts and two goal posts between them
and central bridge island. Two passenger decks and boat deck. No bottom paint
showing at 800 yards. Hull effectively camouflaged grey and black zig zag.
Attacked successfully in each of three approaches. A very well built ship.

November 3, 1942: DAVAO Harbor 0823 Two freighters (single stacks - high compared
with two stick masts) appearing much less important than ship sank yesterday; at
anchor east of wharf. Inshore of them some small shipping which I had later reason
to believe contained two 20-knot minesweeps (made 180 rpm when dropping depth
charges). Tripod mast forward and single stack which is not raked and which is cut
off square on top. On subsequent sighting at closer range they reminded us of our
old Eagle boats. A short mainmast. Listening gear only. The distant ship well.
Confined my attention to motorship described above and to following ship:

November 3, 1942: Southwest of TALICUD IS. entering DAVAO at 1515 a 5000 ton
Freighter Transport 400 feet long, 110 ft. masthead (established accurately by
echo-ranging); noticeably heavy guns fore and aft, 2 stick masts, central bridge
island with 2 passenger decks. Single stack. Attacked successfully at 1612.
Damage not observed. Course 028°, speed 9 knots. Straight stem, counter stern.
Gray.

November 3, 1942: 1905 Minesweeper resembling old Eagle boat, south and west of
TALICUD IS, heading for us at good speed. 1500 yards. Dived to 100 feet and
evaded.

November 7, 1942: Same type ship as above, north of TALICUD IS., distant 5 miles,
headed for us on a southwesterly course. Went to 150 feet and evaded. Sea was
mirror-like and I believed that planes had probably spotted us. He proceeded
towards mouth of gulf.

November 8, 1942: 0222 17 miles SE of TALICUD IS. same type as above headed in
towards DAVAO about 3000 yards astern of us on same course. Went to 100 feet and
avoided.

November 8, 1942: 1014 Smoke of what developed to be outbound 5000 ton Freighter
Transport of 400 ft. length. One of ships observed in DAVAO Harbor on November
3, easily recognizable by single stack which was highest, two gun on foreheads
I have ever seen. Coal burning. Straight stem, counter stern, black and grey
zig-zag camouflage, heavily loaded with much freight on deck. Two stick masts.
Very few people in sight. Speed 11, base course 140° T. Coal burning. 2 passenger
decks and boat deck. 2 well decks. 64 rpm. After gun is manned. Two whaleboats
each side rigged out for lowering. Zigging radically about 3000 yards astern of
escorting minesweeper which held base course. Made approach but got "run over."
See Narrative. Ship passed through 6°22'N, 126°03'E.

November 8, 1942: 1123 DAVAO bound Freighter of 4000 tons, 380 ft. long bearing
157° T, 14000 yards. 110 ft. masthead. Checked by echo ranging. Two stick
masts, single stack, central bridge island. 1 Passenger deck, boat deck. 2 rows
of ports beneath passenger deck. Two well decks. Guns mounted fore and aft and

5 (2)
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

— page 223 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

DECLASSIFIED
Section 5 - Enemy Ships Sighted (Continued)

November 8, 1942 (Continued)
machine guns on flying bridge. Coal burning. One whaleboat each side rigged out.
Two large power boats in gripes in forward well deck. Colors flying at gaff. Many
people on board dressed in white. Crew is smart and well disciplined. Raked stem
and cruiser or counter stern. It may well be that I have underestimated size of
this ship but pictures may clarify this somewhat. Same locality as above. Course
327° (not zigging). Speed 9 knots. Attacked successfully.

November 8, 1942: 1215 Minesweeper of about 300 tons, tripod foremast, square cut
single stack, short stick mainmast, square looking bridge structure, 150 feet long,
50 ft. masthead, bearing 108° T, course 298°, same locality as above; coming out
from the eastern side of the Gulf. 4 miles from us. Went deep and avoided. Not
the one who took the first ship out - but similar. No pinging gear.

November 11, 1942: At 1428 in 7°38'N, 134°23' E small patrol vessel off TOAGEL
MLUNGUI entrance PALAU on various courses speeds 4 to 10 knots; believe coal burn-
ing. Single stack cut square and straight. 55 ft. masthead. Stick foremast with
heavy shrouding. Short mainmast. Straight stem. High forecastle with one gun
(shielded). Forecastle breaks well forward of bridge to flush deck rest of way aft.
Crow's nest on foremast. Bridge low - 2 white bands on funnel. Ship painted grey.
Numerals "551" in white on side of hull which is of very low freeboard. A flag
flying from bridge halyard and colors flying at gaff. Length 125-150 ft. Displace-
ment 200 tons. Ash cans on deck aft. Platform with 2 or 3 people on it just for-
ward mainmast. No echo ranging gear. His propeller goes out of water regularly
with swell which is 2-3 feet high and I think water noise too high to permit good
listening.

November 11, 1942: 2 DDs (HIBIKI or AMAGIRI) course 353° T, north and west of
TOAGEL MLUNGUI entrance to PALAU. Commenced approach on leader. Courses various,
speeds various. See Track Chart. On sighting large CV at 17-47-15 abandoned ap-
proach on DD and concentrated on carrier.

November 11, 1942: One large carrier bearing 221° T, 3800 yards, 90° S. In rain and
twilight. Carrier stood to northwest and then to southwest but we couldn't get in
attack. No picture of this carrier on board. Full length flight deck. Slightly
open under each end. Six stick masts, relative location not determined. Very
small bridge island above flight deck. My impression is that this is well aft (Al-
though it might be well forward). Tops of masts were about as much again above
flight deck as latter was above water. I give them 100 feet. Length not determined
but my guess is well over 600 feet. No worthwhile speed checks. Anything up to 21
knots.

November 14, 1942: At 0944 in TOMIL Harbor, YAP IS a small ship; details difficult
to distinguish against land background. 2 white stick masts; counter stern, well
deck aft; grey hull; modified clipper bow; funnel not distinguishable. At anchor
or moored close to DEELATSCH and west of DONITSCH. 200 ft. long and 62 ft. mast-
head height. 600 tons. Believe to be sailing schooner with auxiliary drive.

November 18, 1942: 0714 in 11°00'N, 145°30'E large freighter (motor ship) 7500 ton,
460 ft. length, 90 ft. masthead. Hull never visible. High foremast, goal post,
central bridge island with one stack, goal post, high mainmast, bearing about 086°T,
15 miles from us. Commenced approach on surface but at 0820 with target bearing 074°
T, 14 miles, dived for plane which came from northward and at 0917 abandoned app

5 (3)

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DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 5 - Enemy Ships Sighted (Continued)

November 18, 1942 (Continued)
roach. His course 162° T, speed 11.

November 19, 1942: 0715 Sighted tops of ship which developed to be flagship of a
fishing fleet of 8 motor sampans on base course SE, speed 6. Ship was 3500 ton
freighter type with one passenger deck and boat deck, single stack, coal-burning,
310 ft. long, large beam, 100 ft. masthead, well decks fore and aft, large guns
mounted fore and aft. Painted grey. Carries depth charges. Steered various
courses from east to west and made various speeds up to 10 knots. Not many people
visible. Attacked at 14-07-50.
Motor sampans accompanying above vessel had two masts of about 50 ft.,
well deck forward of bridge structure which was high, large and dry; single stacks,
Jap ensigns painted on sides, Jap characters written on counter sterns. One ob-
served to have 3 lines out astern. One observed to have small gun on forecastle.
Not many people visible on topsides. About 150 ft. long, 200 tons.

November 19, 1942: 0851 Tops of what developed to be large tanker bearing 047°.ST,
14 miles, course 157° T, 15 knots. Motor ship, 500 ft. long; 10,000 tons, 90 ft.
masthead. High forecastle, bridge, coal post in MOT, high main mast midway between
coal post and stack. Hull never in sight. 0933 Abandoned approach due inability
overtake and went back for 3500 ton ship described above. Tanker position 0935
about 11°14'N, 148°00'E.

5 (4)

— page 225 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 6 - Description of all Aircraft Sighted

October 10, 1942 Neighborhood of Northwest Cape (EXMOUTH GULF) - Many PBY contacts.
Radar reported about one-half of them before they were picked up by lookouts. No
identification trouble.

November 3, 1942 1208 Over TALOMO Bay, GULF OF DAVAO, 3 low-winged monoplanes,
single-engine, large di-hedral, non-retractable landing gear; 2 flying to north-
east away from me; 1 zooming periscope. First depth charge received at 12?) may
have been from minesweeper.

November 9, 1942 At 1211 in 6°28'N, 128°32'E JAP Flying Boat en route DAVAO from
PALAU (Naval Air Service Type 96); 4 miles, about 4° high. Headed for us. Dived
and believe avoided.

November 18, 1942 0820 in about 11°00'N, 145°30'E medium land bomber MITSUBISHI
Type 96 AM 2E HB either on routine patrol or called out to work on us from field
in MARIANAS. Flew down from north and circled MARU which we were overtaking.
Observed him patrolling this area until 0957, on various courses.

November 29, 1942 0905 in 21°00'N, 166°19'W one PBY on westerly course; 6 miles
bearing 007° T; about 10 high. He drew aft at good rate.

6 (1)

— page 226 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF.
DECLASSIFIED

Section 7 - Particulars of Attacks

October 17, 1942 Off Western Approaches MAKASSAR City 5°03'S, 118°59'E, 4000 ton
Freighter Transport. Our course 226°, our speed 2.4. His course 304°, speed 14.
Details as follows:

| Firing Time (LZT) | 10-05-26 | 10-05-46 |
|---|---|---|
| Tube No. | 1 | 2 |
| Var Heads | 1K XV | 1K XV |
| Gyro Angle | 009°.1 | 011°.2 |
| Track Angle | 105°.1 S | 107°.2 S |
| Bearing | 351° | 353°.6 |
| Torpedo Run | 1500 | 1500 |
| Depth | 8 | 8 |
| Point of Aim * | Foremast | Mainmast |

* Estimated to be 50 yards apart.

Both missed. Sound reported both running normally. Periscope depth, watching
target. No wakes or smoke observed. Sea was glassy and periscope head was barely
out. Spread applied with periscope, white light method. Torpedoes exploded at
end of run, about 5-6 minutes after firing. Re-analysis of approach data shows:
(1) That there was no excuse for a speed higher than 12.8 knots being set on the
machine at firing time (2) That target was definitely changing speed during
approach and had been as high as 15 knots but was probably slowed to 11 at firing
time (3) That spread applied was not sufficient to care for the speed error involved.
Second torpedo must have passed just ahead (4) That if the Voge Speed Spread
Diagram had been used a hit would have resulted. Echo-ranging was attempted
continuously but unsuccessfully during the last 10 minutes of the approach. Firing
interval of 20 seconds caused by "PLOT Ready Light" burning out. Do not believe
target maneuvered to avoid.

November 2, 1942 Off Cape SAN AGUSTIN, Gulf of DAVAC, 3500 ton Freighter Transport.
Attacked with Mark IX torpedoes. Our course 045° T, our speed 2.4, target course
140°, target speed 7. Details:

| LZT | 14-41-55 | 14-42-10 | 14-42-24 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tube No. | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| Point of aim | 1/4 length ahead | MOT | 1/4 Length astern |
| Periscope bearing | 195 | 195 | 195 |
| Gyro angle | 180 | 180 | 180 |
| Track | 95P | 95P | 95P |
| Run | 1100 | 1100 | 1100 |
| Depth | 4' | 4' | 4' |

ONE HIT at 14-43-23 in forward half of ship. Many people in ship insist on two
hits. I only saw and heard one. Ship listed to starboard, took trim down by bow
and sank at 14-53-35 in 6°14'N, 126°07'E. Firing took place at periscope depth.
Sea choppy. Rain squalls. Wind from northeast. Longitudinal spread. Sound
reported all running straight.

7 (1)

— page 227 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 7 - Particulars of Attacks (Continued)

November 3, 1942 In TALOMO BAY, GULF OF DAVAO, 9300 ton silk liner at anchor in
30 fathoms of water 7°02'.5N, 125°33'.3E; conducted 3 approaches and executed 6
attacks as follows:

                                                First Approach
Our speed 2.4, target speed 0, target heading 011° T, gyro angles 0°, periscope
bearing 0°. (Cross-current negligible. "Re-hash" shows set 145°, drift 0.9)

Firing LZT        10-50-15        10-51-45        10-53-05        10-54-20
Tube No.          1               2               3               4
Type warhead      Mk XV           Mk XV           Mk XVI          Mk XVI
Depth setting     18              8               4               4
Point of Aim      Forward Goal    Stack ('OT)     10 yds abaft    Halfway be-
                  Post (about 1/2                                 tween stack &
                  way between stack                               forward goal
                  and foremast)                                   post.
Our course        305             305.5           306             307.5
Track angle       112S            112.5 S         113S            114.5S
Torpedo Run *     1100            1020            950             880
*Accurately checked by "ping" range.

Remarks: Torpedo from No. 1 tube ran under point of aim and exploded on beach at
10-51-35 still lined up with point of aim. Changed depth setting of No. 2 for
contact. Estimate draft 24 to 28 feet. No bottom paint showing.
        Torpedo from No. 2 tube exploded under point of aim at 10-52-30. Much
flying debris. Ship listed rapidly to starboard about 30° and then righted her-
self. Increase in draft not appreciably large.
        Torpedo from No. 3 tube ran under point of aim and hit beach without ex-
ploding. Wake observed to target. "Sound" heard running after time for exploding.
        Torpedo from No. 4 tube ran under point of aim and hit beach without ex-
ploding. Wake observed part way to target. "Sound" heard still running after time
for exploding.

Withdrew to south and commenced second approach.

                                                Second Approach
Firing course 352°.5, our speed 2.4, target speed 0, target heading 321°, firing LZT
11-31-00.

Tube No.          1               Remarks: Torpedo exploded in after half of
Type Warhead      Mk. XV          target. When smoke cleared away after gun's
Depth Setting     8               crew had disappeared; as had all hands except
Point of Aim      Stack           a few on forecastle head. Ship increased in
Track Angle       148°.5 P        draft and trim by stern but not rapidly. We
Torpedo Run       800             turned around to deliver stern tube attack.
Gyro Angle        0
Periscope Bearing 0

(See next page for Third Approach)

                                                                                7 (2)

— page 228 —
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 7 - Particulars of Attacks (Continued)

November 3, 1942 (Continued)
Third Approach
Our course 197.3, our speed 2.4, target course 310°, target speed 0 (Port anchor
chain up and down).

| Firing LZT    | 11-43-55         | Remarks: Torpedo exploded in one of forward
| Tube No.      | 8                | holds starting fire and causing ship to take
| Type Warhead  | Mk IX            | trim down by bow. Fire grew progressively
| Gyro angle    | 180°             | worse as we withdrew to southward, as did
| Periscope     | 180°             | target trim and draft. Am confident that
| Point of aim  | Half way between | ship is going to sink.
|               | stack and fwd.   | The failures of the first attack
|               | goal post.       | are typical and only add weight to the
| Track         | 112 P            | previous complaints of other COs and myself
| Run           | 1100             | as to the erratic performance of the Mk XIV
| Depth         | 4                | torpedo and its warhead attachments. All
|               |                  | six of these fish smoked. None of these
|               |                  | tubes had been made ready until about 2 min.
|               |                  | before firing. (Reference SEAWOLF attacks
|               |                  | of 12/14/41, 2/19/42, 3/25/42, 6/13/42,
|               |                  | 8/3/42, 8/6/42, 8/14/42 - dates are only ap-
|               |                  | proximate).

November 3, 1942 West of TALICUD IS., GULF OF DAVAO in 6°50'N, 125°34'E at 1611
attacked 5000 ton inbound Freighter Transport with Mark IX torpedoes. Our course
303°, our speed 2.4, target course 028°, target speed 8, depth setting 4 feet, type
warhead Mark IX.

| LZT                 | 16-11-25          | 16-11-43          | 16-12-03
| Pt of aim           | 1/4 length ahead  | AFT               | 1/4 length astern
| Tube No.            | 5                 | 6                 | 7
| Bearing Pt. of Aim  | 196               | 196               | 196
| Gyro Angle          | 180               | 180               | 180
| Track               | 85P               | 85P               | 85P
| Torpedo Run         | 1910              | 1910              | 1910
Longitudinal spread, periscope depth, watching target.

Remarks: Sound reported first and third running straight but agreed with me that
second torpedo circled to the right. I ordered 150 feet. At 16-14-10 one explosion.
Timed about right for third torpedo. At 16-14-45 SOUND reported breaking up of ship
and there was considerable noise of this type audible in ship during next minute and
again at 1625; in contradistinction to the depth charging we were getting. Ping
ranging was employed successfully in this attack, despite the presence of two anti-
sub vessels.

November 8, 1942 GULF OF DAVAO Attacked twice and sank 4000 ton FREIGHTER TRANSPORT
inbound to DAVAO in 6°22'N, 126°03'E.

(See next page for details)

7 (3)

— page 229 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 8 - Enemy A/S Measures

October 17, 1942 Off Western Approaches MAKASSAR CITY about 5 hours 37 minutes
after attacking 4000 ton Passenger Freighter received total of 9 depth bombs in a
period of 50 minutes. Ship was about 1.8 miles NW of torpedo attack position, at
100 feet on way up, when first bomb dropped. Sea was clear, calm with gentle
swells. Had been running at 120 ft. with observation every 15 minutes. No air
leaks. Was not pumping bilges. None of the bombs hit close enough to shake us.
Sound never could pick up propellers. No shipping was in sight 12 minutes before
first bomb was dropped nor 17 minutes after last bomb. So I believe it was a
plane or planes making drops on flotsam or sea birds in the vicinity. Only measures
taken to avoid: Went to 200 feet and made 180° change of course.

November 3, 1942 900 ton motor ship after first attack fired bow gun and stern
gun fast and furiously. Guns did not look large but splash was much larger than
our 3". Shell explosions were loudest yet heard. Just preceding second attack they
were shooting wildly one about 500 yards to east of us and the other about 500
yards to west of us. Guns went out of action after our second attack.

November 3, 1942 At 1220, 35 minutes after last attack on motor ship, first of 5
depth charges from minesweepers or planes. (See Sections 1, 5, 7). Two ships made
runs until 1405. No pinging but their listening gear was not bad. First charge
1220, second charge 1231 (close), 3rd charge 1258 (close), 4th charge 1259 (close),
5th charge 1330 (far away). Both ships faded out to south. Only protective
tactics employed were deep submergence and silent running at 60 rpm, except for
several course changes at 2/3 or standard speed to put our stern on him; or to
head astern of him.

November 3, 1942 At 1615 first of 22 depth charges and/or bombs. Some hit close.
Last charge 1701. Last screws faded out to northeastward at 1801. Tactics as
above. Some minor electrical damage sustained and one leaking main motor air
cooler.

November 8, 1942 At 1240, 20 minutes after sinking DAV.O bound Freighter-Transport
first of 6 charges. Last one at 1528. All missed badly and believe they were from
one minesweeper. No evasive tactics except to run at 150 feet and hold course
south.

November 11, 1942 (1) Prior to sortie of CV from TOAGEL [UNCLEAR: BLU] GUNGUI PASS (PALAU) either
one of 2 DDs or a small PC dropped one depth charge. Nothing ever did convince me
that they knew we were present. Charge was not close and we remained at periscope
depth. (2) Prior to sortie of CV; 2 DDs took course to the north and northwest,
not pinging. We went to normal approach for the closest one and got "sucked in" to
the north and east. CV came out of channel in rain and stood to north west and west
with no opposition from us.

November 19, 1942 Between 1420 and 1458 after attack on 3500 ton MARU at 1407 re-
ceived 4 depth charges. None hit close. No evasive tactics except to turn from
firing course 205° and head for PEARL on 073° T. At 150 feet. Water was too rough
for good sound operation by surface ships.

8 (1)

— page 230 —
DECLASSIFIED U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 7 - Particulars of Attacks (Continued)

November 8, 1942 (Continued)
                                                              First Attack
                                                              LZT             12-01-57        12-02-11
                                                              Tube No.        4               3
Our course            237
Our speed             2.4
Target course 325
Target speed          10 (mean observed)
Type warheads         XVI
Depth setting         4'
                                                              Point of Aim    NOT             NOT
                                                              Bearing         336.5           341.2
                                                              Target speed    9               11
                                                              Gyro Angle      347             353
                                                              Track Angle     79S             85S
                                                              Torpedo Run     800             775

Remarks: Firing at periscope depth applying divergent spread with periscope; using
VOGE Speed Spread Diagram. First hit at 12-02-25 in Boiler Rooms. Second hit at
12-02-40 well forward.

                                                              Second Attack
                                                              LZT             12-16-20
                                                              Tube No.        2
Our course            165.3
Our speed             2.4
Target heading        105
Target speed          0
Depth setting         4'
Type Warhead          1K IX
                                                              Point of Aim    NOT
                                                              Bearing         140°
                                                              Track Angle     30° P
                                                              Gyro Angle      180°
                                                              Torpedo Run     825

Remarks: Fired at periscope depth. Torpedo hit at 12-19-15.
When water and debris disappeared from air ship had gone under.

November 19, 1942 In 11°14'N, 148°00'E, 3500 ton MARU. Target course 131°.5,
target mean speed 9, our speed 2.4, Depth set 6 ft., Mark 6 torpedoes, torpedo run
1750 yards.                                                   1K XV heads

LZT                                           14-07-50        14-08-07
Tube                                          1               2
Target speed                                  8               10
Point of aim                                  NOT             NOT
Bearing                                       003.4           000.8
Our course                                    204.6           205
Gyro                                          354             349.5
Track                                         117.9           117

Sound reported both running normally. Torpedoes exploded at end of run. Approach
made at periscope depth, watching target. Wakes and smoke not visible. Sea was
rough with deep swell. First ping range was not obtained until 1M 50S before firing
due to interference of SAIPAN hulls. Firing was by White Light. Divergent spread
applied with periscope. Used VOGE Speed Spread. Reanalysis of data shows that (1)
Ship was more nearly 310' long instead of 350' (which latter was 20' less than
first estimate) (2) Target had slowed to 7 knots just prior to firing and was prob-
ably still slowing during run of torpedoes (3) First torpedo must have passed very
close to target but ahead.

7 (4)

— page 231 —
U.S.S. SEAWOLF
DECLASSIFIED

Section 9 - Major Defects and Casualties

October 12, 1942: Attached salt water pump No. 1 main engine failed at 1200. Re-
placement completed and engine ready for use at 1800 October 14. Parts badly
corroded and eroded. 3715.4. hours in use.

October 27, 1942: Flooded out Auxiliary Generator incident to partial accidental
flooding After Engine Room. Ship was running trimmed down; all tanks flooded ex-
cept SAFETY and BOW BUOYANCY. No. 1 main engine in use. After engine room idle
with one throttleman on watch. Outboard exhaust valves were in "POWER" position and
drains between inboard and outboard exhaust valves were open. No. 4 main engine ex-
haust valve was not tightly closed and water flooded into the after engine room to
such a level as to flood out the auxiliary generator. Throttleman reported that at
2010 bilges were normal. At 2022 bilges were overflowing into motor room and OOD
was blowing main ballast tanks in order to save the ship (which almost went under).
Generator back in commission November 17. As a result of this casualty (1) All idle
engines exhaust (outboard) valves are now kept closed in "HAND" (2) All exhaust
header drain piping has been shortened so that water draining from this source will
be more readily noticed.

November 3, 1942: One leaky section DRAIN line in Control Room and one leaky section
COMPENSATING WATER line in Engine Room. Usual soft patch repair.

November 3, 1942: 1600 Discovered Main Motor Air Cooler leaking. On disassembly
found tube ends badly corroded and eroded and located one leaky tube which was
plugged and tested to 100 lbs./in² satisfactorily. On the next day, however, the
same or another tube in same nest gave way. More are likely to go at any time. As
long as volume of flow from drain does not become excessive, no harm can result.

November 5, 1942: 1930 No. 1 main engine, No. 3 cylinder, liner failure. Engine
back in commission 1000 November 6th.

November 10, 1942: Main Generator Cables 0722 Floating No. 2 main engine on
propulsion, "zero" float, 2600 amperes, 270 volts. Routine battery grounds showed
a 26 volt ground on both batteries positive. Propulsion was shifted to battery and
No. 2 generator cut out. Battery ground then read 0 volts, indicating ground was
in No. 2 main generator. Megger reading on No. 2 main generator armature circuit
showed 10,000 ohms. Cables were disconnected and 2 hours later readings of 50 meg-
ohms on the armature and 300,000 ohms on the cables were obtained. After diving at
0823 megger readings on No. 1 main generator showed 125,000 ohms. At 1707 after
surfacing Nos. 1 and 2 main generators were again put on propulsion; their cold
readings being 2.5 and 1 megohms respectively. Machines were kept loaded, using
2600 amperes each, floating in the battery charge. At 1900 Nos. 3 and 4 were cut
in on propulsion and Nos. 1 and 2 secured. Readings: On No. 1 - 50,000 ohms, No.
2 - 10,000 ohms. The end cable insulation of No. 2 main generator was stripped
back from generator terminal block 5" and the armor stripped back 7". Insulation
was found to be moist and cables were found to have verdigris between the copper and
the adjacent insulating layer. The stripped area was cl eaned, wound with 3 layers
of phenolic tape, 2 layers varnished cambric and a la er of linen. Then covered
with glyptal. Reading was then 1 megohm (cold) for entire armature circuit.

November 11, 1942: Main Generator Cables. After diving at 0615 readings on Nos. 3
and 4 main generators were 125,000 and 80,000 ohms respectively. They had been
floated on the battery, "zero" float, 2600 amperes, 265 volts for about 11 hours

9 (1)

— page 232 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
                                                                U.S.S. "SEAWOLF"

Section 9 - Major Defects and Casualties (Continued)

November 11, 1942 (Main Generator Cables (Continued)
in endeavor reach PALAU by daylight with full battery and minimum fuel expenditure.
On surfacing at 1822 all four engines were cut in on propulsion at 2100 amperes,
400 volts in order pursue CV sighted at 1747. At 1925-Nos. 1 and 2 were put on
quick charge but at 2113 No. 2 was put back on propulsion; at 2230 No. 1 was put
back on propulsion.

November 12, 1942:(Above continued) At 0104 slowed to 5 knots and cut out Nos. 1,
2 and 4 main generators and took readings: No. 1 - 10,000 ohms, No. 2 - 10,000
ohms, No. 4 - 100,000 ohms. Engine loading on engines in use (Nos. 3 and 4) were
then cut to 50% still carrying a "zero" float of 1900 amps per generator at 270
volts. Megger readings taken at 0600 were as follows: No. 3 - 600,000 ohms, No. 4
800,000 ohms. Nos. 1 and 2 were not used again until night of the 12th, when cold
readings before use were 2 megohms and 1.5 megohms respectively. After 1-1/2 hours
of use at 50% load No. 2 generator read 300,000 ohms and after 2 hours use No. 1
generator read 400,000 ohms. We decided that we "could get away" with using Nos. 1
and 2 for short periods at reduced loadings and Nos. 3 and 4 for more protracted
periods at somewhat higher loadings. This influenced me in my decision to proceed
to YAP on 13 November and patrol off there on 14, 15 and 16 November (scheduled to
be there on 15th and 16th) even though a delay would result in our arrival PEARL.
For information it may be stated here that during the trials and shakedown cruise
of this vessel when this matter of cable temperature and insulation strength was a
matter of study hot readings of less than 1 megohm were never obtained. That a
set of typical hot readings were those of last March 6th: No. 1 - 1.5 megohms, No. 2
1.5 megohms, No. 3 - 3 megohms, No. 4 - 3 megohms. That cold readings are usually
somewhat higher than hot. That on October 26, 1942 the following hot readings were
recorded: No. 2 - 500,000 ohms, No. 3 - 2 megohms, No. 4 - 2 megohms. That no
formal daily record exists of hot readings (cold readings are always taken before
a machine is cut in; if there is time) but such readings have been taken and Nos. 1
and 2 generators have been reading around 400,000 to 500,000 ohms hot until just
recently. After operation on November 18 and 19 it was apparent that we could load
N. 3 and 4 to 80% without danger but that Nos. 1 and 2 must be restricted to light
loads for short periods for remainder of patrol.

                                                                                9 (2)

— page 233 —
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 10 - Remarks

HEALTH Best yet. No sick days. Directly attributable to last stay in port when
overhaul was accomplished chiefly by tender force and relief crew for first time
since the outbreak of hostilities. This gave the ship's company a much needed
opportunity for relaxation and rest.

COMMUNICATIONS Excellent with VIXO but most unsatisfactory experienced since war
commenced after going from VIXO to NPM circuit. There were 5 transmissions from
this vessel to NPM. On none of them were we able to deliver to NPM direct. On
all of them an unnecessarily long period was occupied in establishing communication;
this affords enemy splendid opportunity for direction finding. A tabulation of
transmitted traffic follows:

| Date | Distance from PEARL | Message | Precedence | GCT of TFC to NPM | GCT of TOD | Station to which delivered |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 11 | 4000 | 111050* | URGENT | 1045 | 1053 | VIXO |
| 11 | 3950 | 111859 | Routine | 1901 | 1924 | VIXO |
| 19 | 3200 | 190950 | OP | 0952 | 1044 | NPG |
| 23 | 2250 | 230138 | OP | 0155 | 0328 | NPG |
| 27 | 1000 | 272030 | Routine | 2032 | 2142 | CINC PAC |

*This message was not rebroadcast by NPM until 1828, 7 hours 35 minutes after our
transmission to VIXO; although it contained an important carrier contact.

Miles steamed 10741 *
Fuel used 88007
Hours surface 897.4
Hours submerged 442.7

*This is mileage by r.p.m. (as are daily mileage
entries). Pitometer log mileage for patrol was
9587.0. This latter figure is not greatly different
from the navigational distance steamed and the ratio
10741/9587, or 1.12, is an indication of the fouling
of the vessel, which will have been 2 years out of
dock in February, with the exception of an overnight
docking in SURABAYA last February when but little
work was accomplished.

10 (1)

— page 234 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. SEAWOLF

Section 11 - Route Followed

On October 7, 1942 left FREMANTLE, W. A. enroute to EXMOUTH GULF via bombing
restriction lane. After fueling at EXMOUTH GULF on October 10 headed for MAKASSAR
CITY via LOMBOK STRAIT. When clear of LOMBOK STRAIT on October 13 patrolled
probable enemy routes from SURABAYA and JAVA SEA to MOLUCCAS, passing north of
DEBRIL ROCK.

On October 18th, after having spent two days patrolling the approaches to
MAKASSAR CITY proceeded north through MAKASSAR STRAIT and commenced patrol off
BALIKPAPAN. From here continued northward to TG MANGALIHAT and then proceeded via
inshore route between BILANG BILANGAN and SAMBIT to TARAKAN, arriving October 25th
after having spent four days off BALIKPAPAN and one day off TG MANGALIHAT. On
October 31st left TARAKAN and proceed to DAVAO GULF spending two days enroute.
After patrolling the DAVAO area for six days headed for PALAU. One day was spent
in this area when it was decided to proceed to PEARL account deterioration main
generator cable insulation. On November 13th course was changed for YAP (Readings
on main generator cables having indicated improvement). Three days were spent
in patrol off YAP ISLAND. Course was then taken for PEARL via the Great Circle
Route.

11 (1)

— page 235 —
[HANDWRITTEN: Ofnav]
[HANDWRITTEN: 81271]
[HANDWRITTEN: W1]

FF12-10/A16-3(5) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
(11)
Serial 01405
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
December 9, 1942.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY 9/C DATE 8-24-66]

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 105
U.S.S. SEAWOLF - SEVENTH WAR PATROL:

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS197) - Report of Seventh [HANDWRITTEN: FILED]
War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of subject war patrol.

1. The seventh war patrol of the U.S.S. SEAWOLF was
conducted with intelligence, thoroughness and aggressiveness.
The successful attack on the 9,310 ton silk liner anchored off
Talomo Wharf in Davao Gulf is especially worthy of commendation
in that it is the first instance noted by this command that one
of our submarines has operated for any appreciable period in
waters as confining as Davao Gulf.

2. The SEAWOLF, after joining this command on 10
November, had instructions to patrol Palau from 11 to 14 November
and Yap on 15 and 16 November. On 11 November, the Commanding
Officer of the SEAWOLF reported that due to trouble with main
generator cables he was abandoning his patrol and was "taking
course for Pearl". The decision in such matters rightfully rests
in the hands of the commanding officer. Subsequently, due to
an improvement in the condition of the cables, the commanding
officer decided to patrol Yap on the 14th, 15th, and 16th. His
decision in this instance, while displaying commendable initiative,
is considered in error. He had no way of knowing whether any of
our submarines had been ordered to patrol that area on the 14th,
or whether, after receipt of his message of 11 November, another
submarine had been ordered to that patrol on the 15th and 16th.
While in this case he was reasonably certain there would be no
interference, for future guidance such practice is not approved.

3. The SEAWOLF has been ordered to the Navy Yard,
Mare Island, for extensive overhaul prior to assignment on
additional war patrols.

[STAMP: DESTROYED]
[HANDWRITTEN: Cy #2]
[HANDWRITTEN: Finished-Num-File 1 -]

[STAMP: RECEIVED]
[STAMP: DEC 26 1942]
[HANDWRITTEN: CHIEF OF FILES]
[HANDWRITTEN: In File No. S(D) A16-3(2)/SS197]
[HANDWRITTEN: 3877]

— page 237 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Eighth War Patrol.
Period from April 3, 1943 to May 3, 1943.
11 Operation Order No.
52-43 (Comtaskfor17).

PROLOGUE

Arrived Pearl Harbor, T.H. on March 13, 1943 after
completion of major three-month overhaul at Navy Yard, Mare
Island. This covered the period December 9, 1942 to February
24, 1943 to which was added a ten day readiness for sea period
at San Francisco, and was the first navy yard overhaul for
SEAWOLF since commissioning on December 1, 1939. Replaced main
motor armatures with skewed-slot type; renewed main generator
cables; renewed trim, drain, and compensating water lines; in-
stalled SJ radar; modified air conditioning coils and main motor
and generator coolers. On January 18, 1943, Lt. Comdr. R.L. Cross,
U.S.N. relieved Commander F.B. Warder, U.S.N. of command. On
arrival Pearl Harbor held 6 day training period, firing eight
exercise torpedoes, followed by eight day period in Submarine
Base floating dock for repairs to QC head and replacement of
rubber shaft bearings with lignum vitae and machining of tail
shaft journals, to eliminate pronounced shaft squeal. Received
flash "D" and deperming. Completed April 1, 1943. Ready for
sea April 3, 1943.

1. NARRATIVE:

APRIL 3.
1300(VW) Underway from Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
escorted by PC596. Trim dive off Barber's Point.
Released escort at dark, set course for Midway via
routing assigned. Daily training dives, battle
problems, battle surface drills.

APRIL 5.
1715('') Fired 5 rounds target and 5 rounds point deton-
ating 3" practice shells. Fired both 20 m.m.
guns.
2055('') Fired 5 rounds 3" point detonating flashless
at target made of oil-soaked rags burning in a
tin can. Flashless qualities appeared excellent.

APRIL 7.
0856(X) Moored to WHALE at Midway alongside dock. Air and
surface escort provided and rendezvous satis-
factory.

-1- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 261 —
He

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR

In Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
May 5, 1943.

FB5-44/A16-3
Serial 011-B

From: The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF, REPORT OF EIGHTH WAR PATROL -
COMMENTS.

1. The SEAWOLF returned to Midway after an absence of twenty-
six days. Expenditure of all torpedoes was the reason for early return.
Fourteen days were spent in reaching patrol area because of urgent busi-
ness requiring attention of SEAWOLF while enroute to station.

2. All attacks are thoroughly analyzed in the patrol report.
A study of the analyses shows that attacks were well planned and carried
out with deliberation. In general, careful attention was paid to details
of firing including gyro angles, spread, firing interval and track angle.
While percentage of hits (30 per cent) is not above average it is probable
that the score would have been considerably higher had torpedo performance
been completely satisfactory. The following points in connection with at-
tacks are considered pertinent:

(a) Attack No. 1.
The interval of over three hours between sighting
the target and making the attack was utilized in gain-
ing a favorable position ahead. When the target was
sighted the angle on the bow was approximately 90° port
and the range was about 25,000 yards. SEAWOLF went ahead
at four engine speed to reach an attack position as soon
as possible without being sighted.

Depth was increased from 40 feet to periscope depth
at 4200 yards range to eliminate possibility of being
sighted. No attempt was made during this attack to ob-
tain range by echo ranging.

-1-
ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 261 —
He

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR

In Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
May 5, 1943.

FB5-44/A16-3
Serial 011-B

From: The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF, REPORT OF EIGHTH WAR PATROL -
COMMENTS.

1. The SEAWOLF returned to Midway after an absence of twenty-
six days. Expenditure of all torpedoes was the reason for early return.
Fourteen days were spent in reaching patrol area because of urgent busi-
ness requiring attention of SEAWOLF while enroute to station.

2. All attacks are thoroughly analyzed in the patrol report.
A study of the analyses shows that attacks were well planned and carried
out with deliberation. In general, careful attention was paid to details
of firing including gyro angles, spread, firing interval and track angle.
While percentage of hits (30 per cent) is not above average it is probable
that the score would have been considerably higher had torpedo performance
been completely satisfactory. The following points in connection with at-
tacks are considered pertinent:

(a) Attack No. 1.
The interval of over three hours between sighting
the target and making the attack was utilized in gain-
ing a favorable position ahead. When the target was
sighted the angle on the bow was approximately 90° port
and the range was about 25,000 yards. SEAWOLF went ahead
at four engine speed to reach an attack position as soon
as possible without being sighted.

Depth was increased from 40 feet to periscope depth
at 4200 yards range to eliminate possibility of being
sighted. No attempt was made during this attack to ob-
tain range by echo ranging.

-1-
ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 262 —
FB5-44/A16-3
Serial 011-B
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR
May 5, 1943.

U.S.S. SEAWOLF, Report of Eight War Patrol,
Comments.

— page 262 —
FB5-44/A16-3
Serial 011-B

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF, Report of Eight War Patrol,
Comments.

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR
May 5, 1943.

Trawler-type escort apparently had no echo
ranging equipment since no pinging was heard.
Escort may have had listening equipment, although
there was no positive evidence to that effect.

(b) Attack No. 3
The expenditure of two torpedoes on a trawler
of 1000 tons does not seem justified. The reason-
ing of the Commanding Officer in this case was
that he wanted to be rid of the escort to have a
free hand in using deck gun on the freighter.

(c) Attack No. 5.
It is noted that ping range was obtained to
check mast head height of target just prior to
firing.

(d) Attacks No. 6 and No. 7.
Six torpedoes were fire at a destroyer during
these attacks. One hit was made. Depth setting
on all was 10 feet. It is considered most prob-
able that at least two of these torpedoes and pos-
sibly more passed under the target and failed to
explode.

Experience at the Submarine Base, Midway, in-
dicates that preservative used on outside of
torpedoes causes sluggish action of vertical
rudders if applied to liberally around rudder
ports. This may have been the cause of steer-
ing failures of torpedoes fired during attack
number 7.

- 2 - ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 263 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR                                Jk

FBS-44/A16-3
                                                                May 5, 1943.
Serial 011-B

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject:        U.S.S. SEAWOLF, Report of Eighth War Patrol -
                Comments.

                3.      The outstanding performance of SJ radar in SEAWOLF
during this patrol was most gratifying and shows what can be
done with this equipment with proper upkeep and operation.
Attention is invited to the comments in the patrol report on
the subject of radar equipment. Most everyone in submarines
has thought what an advantage it would be to have a range
finding radar with small antenna which could be secured to a
periscope or to the SD radar mast.

                4.      The aggressive attitude displayed by the Command-
ing Officer, officers and crew of SEAWOLF during this patrol
was in evidence upon their return to Midway. All hands were
anxious to go out on patrol again as soon as possible. The
vessel is in excellent material condition and refit can be
completed in seven days.

                                                                ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 263 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR                                Jk

FBS-44/A16-3
                                                                May 5, 1943.
Serial 011-B

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject:        U.S.S. SEAWOLF, Report of Eighth War Patrol -
                Comments.

                3.      The outstanding performance of SJ radar in SEAWOLF
during this patrol was most gratifying and shows what can be
done with this equipment with proper upkeep and operation.
Attention is invited to the comments in the patrol report on
the subject of radar equipment. Most everyone in submarines
has thought what an advantage it would be to have a range
finding radar with small antenna which could be secured to a
periscope or to the SD radar mast.

                4.      The aggressive attitude displayed by the Command-
ing Officer, officers and crew of SEAWOLF during this patrol
was in evidence upon their return to Midway. All hands were
anxious to go out on patrol again as soon as possible. The
vessel is in excellent material condition and refit can be
completed in seven days.

                                                                ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 264 —
FC5-4/A16-3
SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
Serial 0109
May 12, 1943.
CONFIDENTIAL

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Eighth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. The eighth war patrol of the U.S.S. SEAWOLF, the
first under the present Commanding Officer, extended for a period of
thirty days, the patrol being terminated early because of expend-
iture of all torpedoes.

2. This excellent patrol is marked by aggressiveness
and determination, all attacks being well planned and coolly
pushed home. When driven deep the Commanding Officer returned
to periscope depth at the earliest possible time and proceeded
with further attacks in a most commendable manner.

3. The SJ radar was used intelligently and paid good
dividends. The brass umbrella installed on the SJ radar torque
tube appears to have served its purpose effectively and the
practicability of installing this device on all submarines in
the squadron will be investigated. Comments of the Commanding
Officer regarding improvement in design of radars for submarines
is concurred in. Such improvement cannot be expected for some
time however and meanwhile every effort should be made to improve
the present SJ and SD instruments by intelligent upkeep and use.

4. Proof that several hits are required to sink a
large well built ship has been well established and sufficient
torpedoes should be fired to do the job properly. The re-
commendation of the Commanding Officer to use spreads to cover
erratic torpedo performance is considered impracticable and is,
therefore, not concurred in.

5. A total of twenty torpedoes were fired and six
hits made for a score of 30%. The complete torpedo analysis
made by the Commanding Officer in his report shows that again
the torpedo performance was poor. In spite of this disappoint-
ing performance SEAWOLF made a creditable showing and it is re-
commended that she be credited with the following damage:

SUNK
@One freighter 7000 tons
One tanker 2000 tons
One destroyer 850 tons
@@One sampan 75 tons
@One sampan 75 tons

- 1 -
ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 264 —
FC5-4/A16-3
SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
Serial 0109
May 12, 1943.
CONFIDENTIAL

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Eighth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. The eighth war patrol of the U.S.S. SEAWOLF, the
first under the present Commanding Officer, extended for a period of
thirty days, the patrol being terminated early because of expend-
iture of all torpedoes.

2. This excellent patrol is marked by aggressiveness
and determination, all attacks being well planned and coolly
pushed home. When driven deep the Commanding Officer returned
to periscope depth at the earliest possible time and proceeded
with further attacks in a most commendable manner.

3. The SJ radar was used intelligently and paid good
dividends. The brass umbrella installed on the SJ radar torque
tube appears to have served its purpose effectively and the
practicability of installing this device on all submarines in
the squadron will be investigated. Comments of the Commanding
Officer regarding improvement in design of radars for submarines
is concurred in. Such improvement cannot be expected for some
time however and meanwhile every effort should be made to improve
the present SJ and SD instruments by intelligent upkeep and use.

4. Proof that several hits are required to sink a
large well built ship has been well established and sufficient
torpedoes should be fired to do the job properly. The re-
commendation of the Commanding Officer to use spreads to cover
erratic torpedo performance is considered impracticable and is,
therefore, not concurred in.

5. A total of twenty torpedoes were fired and six
hits made for a score of 30%. The complete torpedo analysis
made by the Commanding Officer in his report shows that again
the torpedo performance was poor. In spite of this disappoint-
ing performance SEAWOLF made a creditable showing and it is re-
commended that she be credited with the following damage:

SUNK
@One freighter 7000 tons
One tanker 2000 tons
One destroyer 850 tons
@@One sampan 75 tons
@One sampan 75 tons

- 1 -
ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 265 —
o
FC5-4/A16-3                               SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
                                                                                             o
Serial 0109                                                       May 12, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:           U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Eighth War Patrol - Comment on.

— page 265 —
o
FC5-4/A16-3                               SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
                                                                                             o
Serial 0109                                                       May 12, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:           U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Eighth War Patrol - Comment on.

— page 266 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET 1d

Serial 0627
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
May 12, 1943.
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: C.M.M.R.] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/16/77]

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 175
U.S.S. SEAWOLF - EIGHTH WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS197) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject War Patrol Report.
(B) Copy of Comsubdiv 44 Conf. ltr. Serial 011-B of 5-5-43.
(C) Copy of Comsubron 4 Conf. ltr. Serial 0109 of 5-12-43.

1.
The SEAWOLF eighth war patrol was the first under a new com-
manding officer. After an extensive overhaul the SEAWOLF continued her long
and early outstanding war record with a successful and most aggressive patrol.

2.
The first attack prior to entering the area was typical of the
entire patrol. Making contact with a large, escorted freighter, the SEAWOLF
carried out an aggressive and tenacious eleven hour battle which resulted in
destruction of the freighter. In addition to other successful torpedo attacks,
the SEAWOLF used her gun to good advantage.

3.
It is gratifying to note that the SEAWOLF operated its SJ radar
efficiently and effectively. The Commanding Officer is advised, in regard to
his constructive comments about both radars, that new and better types of
radar are being developed for use in the submarine service.

4.
The patrol report of the SEAWOLF was extremely well prepared.
The report of torpedo performance is considered most complete and helpful.

5.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates
the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew of the U.S.S. SEAWOLF for an ag-
gressive and tenaciously performed war patrol, in which the following damage
inflicted to the enemy is credited:

SUNK

1 - Freighter (Class unknown) | 10,000 tons
1 - Tanker (BANSIU MARU #5) | 2,000 tons
1 - Destroyer (WAKATAKE class) | 900 tons
2 - Sampans | 150 tons
TOTAL: | 13,050 tons

Distribution and authentication
on following page. - 1 - C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 49694]

— page 266 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET 1d
Serial 0627 Care of Fleet Post Office,
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED] San Francisco, California,
May 12, 1943.
DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: illegible signature/initials] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/16/77]

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 175
U.S.S. SEAWOLF - EIGHTH WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS197) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject War Patrol Report.
(B) Copy of Comsubdiv 44 Conf. ltr. Serial 011-B of 5-5-43.
(C) Copy of Comsubron 4 Conf. ltr. Serial 0109 of 5-12-43.

1.
The SEAWOLF eighth war patrol was the first under a new com-
manding officer. After an extensive overhaul the SEAWOLF continued her long
and early outstanding war record with a successful and most aggressive patrol.

2.
The first attack prior to entering the area was typical of the
entire patrol. Making contact with a large, escorted freighter, the SEAWOLF
carried out an aggressive and tenacious eleven hour battle which resulted in
destruction of the freighter. In addition to other successful torpedo attacks,
the SEAWOLF used her gun to good advantage.

3.
It is gratifying to note that the SEAWOLF operated its SJ radar
efficiently and effectively. The Commanding Officer is advised, in regard to
his constructive comments about both radars, that new and better types of
radar are being developed for use in the submarine service.

4.
The patrol report of the SEAWOLF was extremely well prepared.
The report of torpedo performance is considered most complete and helpful.

5.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates
the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew of the U.S.S. SEAWOLF for an ag-
gressive and tenaciously performed war patrol, in which the following damage
inflicted to the enemy is credited:

SUNK

1 - Freighter (Class unknown) 10,000 tons
1 - Tanker (BANSIU MARU #5) 2,000 tons
1 - Destroyer (WAKATAKE class) 900 tons
2 - Sampans 150 tons
TOTAL: 13,050 tons

Distribution and authentication - 1 - C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.
on following page.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 49694]

— page 267 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
1d
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
May 12, 1943.

Serial 0627

CONFIDENTIAL

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 175
U.S.S. SEAWOLF - EIGHTH WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS197) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

— page 267 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
1d
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
May 12, 1943.

Serial 0627

CONFIDENTIAL

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 175
U.S.S. SEAWOLF - EIGHTH WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF (SS197) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

— page 268 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF. - Report of Ninth War Patrol. Period
from May 17, 1943 to July 12, 1943. Areas 11-B
and 11-C. Operation Order No. 79-43.

PROLOGUE

Arrived Midway May 3, 1943 from short eighth patrol, re-
fitted by Submarine Base, Midway Repair Force and ComSubDiv 44
relief crew. No major work required and much of routine work
dispensed with as unnecessary. Replaced no. 2 periscope with
base spare because of spots in focal plane. Refit held up
three days due to air alert. Two days training. Not depermed
nor flashed. Refit completed May 15, ready for sea May 17.

During the training period off Midway, had the unpleasant
experience of having a marine-flown SBD spin in, while pulling
up after zooming us, about 200 yards away. His 500 lb. depth
bomb exploded 3 seconds after impact causing no damage to
SEAWOLF. Nothing left of plane or occupants except spot of burn-
ing gasoline, a small tank, and a few burning carbide marker
bombs. The jar below-decks was considerable.

1. NARRATIVE:

MAY 17
1400 (Y) Underway from Submarine Base, Midway, for area along
          prescribed routing.
2400 (Y) Set calendar ahead one day to 2400(M) May 18, training
          dives and battle problems enroute.

MAY 20
0730(M) Set clocks to minus 11 time (L).
0857(L) SD radar contact, 11 miles. Closed to 8 miles. Dived.
          Did not see plane. 585 miles from Midway, 560 miles
          from Wake. Proceeded with battle problem and drills.

0955(L) Surfaced.

1146(L) Ran through thin fog bank, 40 feet depth, 20 miles in
          diameter, 3,000 yards visibility. No record of fogs
          in these waters.

MAY 23
0330(L) Set clocks back to minus 10 time (K).

- 1 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 268 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEAWOLF. - Report of Ninth War Patrol. Period
from May 17, 1943 to July 12, 1943. Areas 11-B
and 11-C. Operation Order No. 79-43.

PROLOGUE

Arrived Midway May 3, 1943 from short eighth patrol, re-
fitted by Submarine Base, Midway Repair Force and ComSubDiv 44
relief crew. No major work required and much of routine work
dispensed with as unnecessary. Replaced no. 2 periscope with
base spare because of spots in focal plane. Refit held up
three days due to air alert. Two days training. Not depermed
nor flashed. Refit completed May 15, ready for sea May 17.

During the training period off Midway, had the unpleasant
experience of having a marine-flown SBD spin in, while pulling
up after zooming us, about 200 yards away. His 500 lb. depth
bomb exploded 3 seconds after impact causing no damage to
SEAWOLF. Nothing left of plane or occupants except spot of burn-
ing gasoline, a small tank, and a few burning carbide marker
bombs. The jar below-decks was considerable.

1. NARRATIVE:

MAY 17
1400 (Y) Underway from Submarine Base, Midway, for area along
          prescribed routing.
2400 (Y) Set calendar ahead one day to 2400(M) May 18, training
          dives and battle problems enroute.

MAY 20
0730(M) Set clocks to minus 11 time (L).
0857(L) SD radar contact, 11 miles. Closed to 8 miles. Dived.
          Did not see plane. 585 miles from Midway, 560 miles
          from Wake. Proceeded with battle problem and drills.

0955(L) Surfaced.

1146(L) Ran through thin fog bank, 40 feet depth, 20 miles in
          diameter, 3,000 yards visibility. No record of fogs
          in these waters.

MAY 23
0330(L) Set clocks back to minus 10 time (K).

- 1 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 271 —
Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Ninth War Patrol.

1314(H) Destroyer sighted us, stopped circling, angle on bow
           zero. Increased to full power on 3 engines charging
           on the fourth. Made gradual turns of 10 degrees to the
           left until we were back on base course with destroyer
           still dead astern, not closing very much. Almost lost
           him in a rain curtain, his angle on the bow becoming
           perceptibly port as we eased around left. Had to pass
           astern 3,000 yards to starboard in maintaining
           leading course.

1424(H) Apparently holding our own up to now, but he now made
          smoke, built up speed and began closing slowly. No
          rain clouds available.

1455(H) With destroyer at 10,000 yards closing, forced to
          submerge, having picked up a good bit of ground on
          the convoy.

1510(H) First depth charge dropped about 4,000 yards astern.
          Watched him circling his point of contact. WAKATAKE
          class destroyer.

1511(H) Three more charges.

1519(H) One more charge. Long scale pinging, but could not
          hear screws. As his circles were getting wider and
          sea was glassy calm - clouds were clearly reflected
          on the surface and the sky and horizon blended into
          one through the periscope - did not consider an attack
          practical.

1530(H) Went to 200 feet and speeded up to clear area.

1630(H) Secured from battle stations. Pinging getting
          louder. Ran quiet.

1632(H) Periscope depth. Smoke dead astern where we thought
          destroyer was.

1635(H) Sunset.

1640(H) Surfaced. Destroyer about 6 miles astern circling.
          Believe he sighted us again as angle on bow changed
          to zero but he didn't have a chance this time.
          Opened at 4 engines and quickly lost him in the
          dark. Very dark night, intermittent rain, no wind,
          overcast, no moon. Set course to try to catch up with
          convoy at midnight at 3 engine speed. It's this
          night or never as tomorrow he'll be nearly in the
          straits of TSUSHIMA. Sent contact report to TINOSA
          on 450 kc. direct and on high frequency via NPM, in
          case he was waiting just a few miles too far of the
          line.

                                  - 4 -

                                                  ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 274 —
Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Ninth War Patrol.

One officer thought some landed on dock. Fortunately this
was a small mark 15 head. Fourth torpedo prematured at a
safe depth at 15 seconds. One other explosion heard,
which was either no. 2 at 2 minutes 31 seconds (3,000
yards) or no. 3 at 2 minutes 12 seconds (3,300 yards).
Analysis shows probable hit on one of far escorts on port
side of target, substantiated by radar reporting losing
the pip on one of the far escorts at about 3,000 yards.
Believe we sank one escort, type unknown. Size of pip
showed it to be 1,000 tons or larger. Remaining torpedo
did not explode during or at the end of the run. 40-50
fathoms of water. Retired at 3 engine speed on reverse of
target course.

0136(H) Slowed to 5 knots to pick up the picture again. Target
opening range to southeast. One escort and target bunched
together. Visibility not changed, rain continuing.
Conditions indicated that a second attack would have
more chance of success in daylight, so retired at his
speed 14 knots along his course 210 for a daylight attack.
Lost target at 13,000 yards. Should have maintained radar
contact, but having once lost it, could only retire along
his probable course due to his probably radical maneuvers.

0410(H) Dived at dawn, submerged patrol along target estimated
track. Avoided several sampans, nothing sighted all day.
Surfaced at sunset. Valuable lesson learned regarding
radar approaches on multiple targets, difficulty of stay-
ing on same pip, and close coordination between plot,
radar, and bridge. The new PPI screen will be fine for
this work.

JUNE 7.

Sighted several sampan lights during night. Conducted
surface patrol today retiring slowly southwestward towards
our area, having run the length of the China sea from
Formosa nearly to Nagasaki. After much deliberation sent
in a report on what meagre information we had on this
convoy as it appeared that it might have been a large
naval force heading east of Formosa towards the Southwest
Pacific area. No sights in four days made our own position
problematical, although it developed later that it was
correct as used.

JUNE 8.

0356(H) Sighted red light, maneuvered to avoid. Poor
visibility. Was not sighted.

- 7 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 287 —
Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Ninth War Patrol.

1027(I) Dived on sight contact of one plane on starboard bow,
        five miles, 30 degrees hi h, not identified. Small,
        silver-colored, not identified. Saw it for 30
        seconds. Plane was in clouds. Visibility was bad for
        sighting planes. Remained submerged
        all day. OMICHI JIMA now 140 miles to the south-
        south-east, YOKOHAMA 440 miles to the north-north-
        west. The planes are either patrolling out of OMICHI
        JIMA, or patrolling between there and HONSHU.
        They are not the large patrol boats or land bombers
        the size of our SD's. SD radar not effective
        against them.

        JULY 2.
1809(I) Dived on sight contact of plane about 10 miles, on
        starboard bow crossing from starboard to port,
        headed northeast, not identified, no radar pip.
        Marcus 330 miles bearing 170(T). Less than an
        hour before sunset, visibility excellent.

1915(I) Surfaced 20 minutes after sunset.
        JULY 5.
0512(K) Dived on plane radar contact, 7 miles, closed to 5
        miles. Broad daylight but 1/2 hour till sunrise,
        clear sky with only a few detached clouds, unlimited
        visibility. Marcus 570 miles to the southwest, Wake
        same distance to the south-south-east. Plane not
        sighted.

0617(K) Surfaced.
        JULY 7.
1010(L) Dived on sight contact of plane heading for us
        on starboard bow at 8 miles. Just inside Midway
        500 mile circle, 680 miles from Wake. Plane not
        identified except as high wing monoplane.

1123(L) Surfaced.

1706(L) Dived on sight contact of plane dead astern at 8
        miles crossing starboard to port. Pulled one green
        flare before dive. Could have been a PBY. Only
        one lookout saw it. Midway now 480 miles east of us.

1732(L) Surfaced.

        - 20 -
        ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 287 —
Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Ninth War Patrol.

1027(I) Dived on sight contact of one plane on starboard bow,
        five miles, 30 degrees hi h, not identified. Small,
        silver-colored, not identified. Saw it for 30
        seconds. Plane was in clouds. Visibility was bad for
        sighting planes. Remained submerged
        all day. OMICHI JIMA now 140 miles to the south-
        south-east, YOKOHAMA 440 miles to the north-north-
        west. The planes are either patrolling out of OMICHI
        JIMA, or patrolling between there and HONSHU.
        They are not the large patrol boats or land bombers
        the size of our SD's. SD radar not effective
        against them.

        JULY 2.
1809(I) Dived on sight contact of plane about 10 miles, on
        starboard bow crossing from starboard to port,
        headed northeast, not identified, no radar pip.
        Marcus 330 miles bearing 170(T). Less than an
        hour before sunset, visibility excellent.

1915(I) Surfaced 20 minutes after sunset.
        JULY 5.
0512(K) Dived on plane radar contact, 7 miles, closed to 5
        miles. Broad daylight but 1/2 hour till sunrise,
        clear sky with only a few detached clouds, unlimited
        visibility. Marcus 570 miles to the southwest, Wake
        same distance to the south-south-east. Plane not
        sighted.

0617(K) Surfaced.
        JULY 7.
1010(L) Dived on sight contact of plane heading for us
        on starboard bow at 8 miles. Just inside Midway
        500 mile circle, 680 miles from Wake. Plane not
        identified except as high wing monoplane.

1123(L) Surfaced.

1706(L) Dived on sight contact of plane dead astern at 8
        miles crossing starboard to port. Pulled one green
        flare before dive. Could have been a PBY. Only
        one lookout saw it. Midway now 480 miles east of us.

1732(L) Surfaced.

        - 20 -
        ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 288 —
Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Ninth War Patrol.

JULY 8.

0641(L) Sighted silvery shiny object, believed to be a
        plane, on starboard beam bearing 310(T), 2
        degrees high. Disappeared in scattered clouds.
        Did not dive. Probably a PBY at least 12 miles away.

2400(L) Shifted calendar to July 7th(Y).

JULY 9.

0500(Y) Made rendezvous with two Midway planes and entered
        Midway lagoon.

0721(Y) Moored port side to alongside SAILFISH in nest with
        SPERRY.

1302(Y) Underway for PEARL. Received 20,000 gallons fuel.
        Left 4 torpedoes with SPERRY.

1906(Y) Trim dive.

1922(Y) Surfaced.

JULY 12.

0600(W) Made rendezvous with escort.

1100(W) Moored submarine base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

END OF NARRATIVE

- 21 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 289 —
Subject: U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Report of Ninth War Patrol.

2. WEATHER:
Midway to area: excellent, with light variable
winds, occasional small rain squalls. One fog
patch encountered 600 miles west of Midway.

In area: long periods of overcast, rainy
weather followed by a few days of clear, glassy-
calm, unlimited visibility weather. No high
winds or rough seas, however.

Area to Midway: generally fair, except rather
rough seas from the east with high barometer for
two or three days.

Midway to Pearl: good.

3. TIDAL INFORMATION:

After four and one half days without a fix of high
speed erratic running the length of the China sea
and back, fix showed us 4 miles from the D.R.,
speaking well for the performance of the navigator,
Lt.(j.g.) Chesler, and the dead reckoning analyzing
indicator.

Currents agree in general with published
information.

The method of fixing position by soundings on
transparent paper over a period of several hours was
used to excellent advantage by the navigator. This
was done in the Japan current, and a current which
checked closely with the charted current was computed
from these soundings alone.

4. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS:

The lights on north Formosa and the China coast
are sometimes on at full brilliancy, sometimes at
reduced brilliancy, and sometimes extinguished,
but all were showing correct characteristics when
seen.

- 22 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 299 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-THREE

FB5-43/A16-3                                        Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                    San Francisco, California,
Serial ( 099 )                                      July 13, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL

From:       The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-THREE.
To :        The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via :       The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject:    U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Ninth War Patrol - Comment on.

        1.  This was the second war patrol in command for
the present commanding officer and the ninth for the vessel.
It covered a period of exactly eight weeks following a two
week refit.

        2.  It was a busy patrol with seven contacts of his
own comprising thirty-six (thirty-seven) ships and four
reported convoys not to mention numerous sampans, one of
which was sunk by gunfire. It might be said that the
abundance of targets operated to the ship's disadvantage
in that visual contacts, assumed positions, and reported
positions resulted in a failure to relentlessly pursue the
"sure things".

        3.  Four attacks were pushed home; four torpedoes
fired on each attack; adequate spreads used on apparently
correct solutions; favorable tracks in three of the four
attacks; small gyro angles; one good range, one moderate, and
two above average; depths set to fire on contact. One hit
was obtained on a primary target and a possible hit made on a
secondary (screen) target but eleven torpedoes failed to
explode either during or at the end of their runs. There
were two prematures and one torpedo exploded one-quarter ship's
length astern in target's wake. This may have been an induced
explosion as a line was observed over the stern. The mysterious
torpedo performance is not clarified any by Midway's examination
and report on the four torpedoes which SEAWOLF brought back in
to the effect that they should have functioned normally when
fired. The ship has plotted and analyzed the performances based
on best-known data, this has been reviewed and one or more
torpedoes should have hit in each attack. However, "paper" hits
do not sink Jap ships.

                                                    ENCLOSURE (E)
                                - 1 -

— page 299 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-THREE

FB5-43/A16-3                                        Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                    San Francisco, California,
Serial ( 099 )                                      July 13, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL

From:       The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-THREE.
To :        The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via :       The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject:    U.S.S. SEAWOLF - Ninth War Patrol - Comment on.

        1.  This was the second war patrol in command for
the present commanding officer and the ninth for the vessel.
It covered a period of exactly eight weeks following a two
week refit.

        2.  It was a busy patrol with seven contacts of his
own comprising thirty-six (thirty-seven) ships and four
reported convoys not to mention numerous sampans, one of
which was sunk by gunfire. It might be said that the
abundance of targets operated to the ship's disadvantage
in that visual contacts, assumed positions, and reported
positions resulted in a failure to relentlessly pursue the
"sure things".

        3.  Four attacks were pushed home; four torpedoes
fired on each attack; adequate spreads used on apparently
correct solutions; favorable tracks in three of the four
attacks; small gyro angles; one good range, one moderate, and
two above average; depths set to fire on contact. One hit
was obtained on a primary target and a possible hit made on a
secondary (screen) target but eleven torpedoes failed to
explode either during or at the end of their runs. There
were two prematures and one torpedo exploded one-quarter ship's
length astern in target's wake. This may have been an induced
explosion as a line was observed over the stern. The mysterious
torpedo performance is not clarified any by Midway's examination
and report on the four torpedoes which SEAWOLF brought back in
to the effect that they should have functioned normally when
fired. The ship has plotted and analyzed the performances based
on best-known data, this has been reviewed and one or more
torpedoes should have hit in each attack. However, "paper" hits
do not sink Jap ships.

                                                    ENCLOSURE (E)
                                - 1 -