U.S.S. PARGO (SS-264) — war patrol report SS-264_PARGO_Part2.pdf

— page 1 —
38

F05-26/A16-3
SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY SIX

Serial: ( 038 )
Q-Q-N-F-I-D-E-M-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS PARGO - Report of
6th War Patrol. SS264/A16-3
Serial 021 dated 12-21-44.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-SIX.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarines SEVENTH FLEET.
(2) The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.

1. The sixth war patrol of the U.S.S. PARGO was of 54 days duration, 41 of which were spent north of the Malay Barrier in the Java and South China Seas. Area coverage of the shallow inshore waters around Brunei Bay and Balabac Straits was excellent and a maximum amount of time was utilized on the surface.

2. Worthwhile torpedo contacts were not numerous. However, two attacks were made and two others could not be developed because of excessive ranges presented.

ATTACK NO. 1 was made as a night surface radar attack in the early hours of 13 November upon a DD in company with a small patrol vessel. Four torpedoes were fired at the destroyer with an average track angle of 66° and ranges closing from 1500 to 1000 yards. All torpedoes missed as the enemy took prompt action to evade and immediately launched a counter attack.

ATTACK NO. 2 occurred in the afternoon of 26 November as a day submerged attack against a large AO which was accompanied by both surface and air exoorts. Four torpedoes were fired from stern tubes with average track angles of 137° and torpedo runs of 600 yards. One hit was observed and three others were heard. Later observations revealed that the enemy was in a sinking condition.

3. The material condition of PARGO was very good. Correction of defects and a normal refit will be made by ANTHEON.

4. The amount of time devoted to qualification training is noted with pleasure.

5. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew for the damage inflicted upon the enemy in a category of vessels he can ill afford to lose.

— page 2 —
1- A0 (Large) - EC
10,000 Tons (Attack No. 2)
EXTRA  ORIGINAL
SORG. MICRO
PHOTO: LAB OP-16
RETURN TO F-4253

**Additional Information:**
- **Serial/Class/Date:** 024
- **C/O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L**
- **Subject:** SUBJECT: U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Sixth War Patrol - Comment on.
- **From:** The Sixth War Patrol of the PARGO was conducted in the SOUTH CHINA SEA in the western approaches to BALABAC STRAIT.
- **To:** The early morning of 13 November an unsuccessful night surface attack was made with four torpedoes on a target group identified as a HATSUITARU DD and one small escort. The target possibly sighted or heard the launching of the torpedoes, but counter measures were initiated so promptly that visual contact at the short range of 1000-1500 yards is more likely. In a second encounter with the same target it appeared that the enemy used a radar detector which had only fair directional characteristics. When the SJ was secured, or beamed away from the target, the enemy lost contact immediately.
- **3. The second attack was a very well executed attack in shallow water. Initial sighting of smoke took place at 0955, 26 November, 1944, and a long-end-around was conducted in the face of aircraft patrols. At 1355, PARGO dived ahead of the target and maneuvered to a firing position at the very favorable periscope range of 500-700 yards. Four shots produced four hits, which broke the ship in two, and sank it.**
- **4. The award of the Submarine Combat Insignia is authorized for this patrol.**
- **5. The Force Commander commends the Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew of the PARGO for this successful patrol in which the following damage was inflicted upon the enemy:**
- **SUNK**
- **1 - A0 (Large) - EC**
- **10,000 Tons (Attack No. 2)**
- **EXTRA  ORIGINAL**
- **SORG. MICRO**
- **PHOTO: LAB OP-16**
- **RETURN TO F-4253**

— page 3 —
12b/pr
9 January 1945.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
SECOND ENDORSEMENT TO:
USS ARROGATE. Lt. A16-3
Serial 091, dated 21
December, 1944. Report
of Sixth War Patrol.

Subject: U.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Sixth War Patrol - Comment on.

---

**Table of Contents:**

| Command | Date       | Location | Type of Report | Comments |
||||||
| Coninch  | 3/3        | Direct  | CTG-71.5      | (2)      |
| Vice Opnav | 2/2        | Direct  | CTG-71.8      | (2)      |
| Vice Opnav | Op-23c    | (1)      | CTG-71.9      | (2)      |
| Con.selflt | (1)       | (1)      | DivComsSubRon-12| (1 each) |
| Con.selflt | (1)       | (1)      | DivComsSubRon-18| (1 each) |
| Cont.tlt  | (2)       | (2)      | DivComsSubRon-26| (1 each) |
| Combus.selflt | (30) | (30) | S/M School, N.I. Conn. | (2) |
| Combus.sandflt | (4) | (4) | SubAd, Mare Island. | (2) |
| CTF-71    | (7)       | (7)      | Condt. Navy Yard, Puget Sound | (1) |
| CTG-71.3  | (2)       | (2)      | S/Ms 7thFlt | (1) |
| CTG-71.4  | (2)       | (2)      |          |          |

---

**THIS REPORT WILL BE DESTROYED PRIOR TO ENTRY INTO ENEMY CONTROLLED WATERS.**

B. A. Miller,
Flag Secretary.

— page 4 —
SS264/A16-3
Serial 06

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
13 March 1945.

DECLASSIFIED

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

Subject:  U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.

Enclosure:  (A) Subject report.
    (B) Track chart (ComSubPac only).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Seventh War Patrol of this vessel, conducted off the coast of INDO-CHINA between Latitudes 110° and 114° North, during the period 15 January to 13 March 1945, is forwarded herewith.

D. E. BELL.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, CPNAVINST 5510.C
BY OP-09/92 DATE 5/12/45

DECLASSIFIED

— page 5 —
21 Dec. - ARRIVED FREMANTLE, W.A., and commenced normal refit by U.S.S. ANTHEON. In addition to the routine work of overhaul, the following major items were accomplished:

1. The damaged pitometer log sword arm was replaced.
2. A new "A" and Waterbury Speed Gear was installed in the bow-plane rigging and capstan hydraulic drive system.
3. Both periscopes were pulled, given a complete overhaul, and reinstalled so that the battle periscope is in the No. 1 position.
4. Doubler hatches were installed in the after battery, after engine room, and after torpedo room.
5. The SJ reflector was replaced by the new slotted type.
6. Ship was dry docked and bottom painted.

Seven days and two nights were allotted for training during which three exercise torpedoes, ten special weapons, and 10 rounds of 4"/50 cal. ammunition were fired.

(B) NARRATIVE.

Officers and Chief Petty Officers on Board

| Officer | Number | Wartime Rank | Number | Wartime Rank |
||||||
| Lt. Cdr. | 10     |              | 9      |              |
| Lieut. | 5      |              | 4      |              |
| Lieut. | 6      |              | 5      |              |
| Lt. (jg) | 6      |              | 5      |              |
| Lt. (jg) | 5      |              | 4

— page 6 —
15 Jan. 1945

1306 - Underway in accordance with CTG 71.1 secret operation order 5-45 of 15 January 1945.

1500 - Commenced practice approaches with U.S.S. HUTCHINSON as target.

2200 - Completed exercises, released HUTCHINSON, and proceeded enroute EXMOUTH GULF.

16/17 Jan. - Enroute EXMOUTH GULF; conducted training dives, ship control, damage control, and fire control drills.

18 Jan.

1020 - Moored alongside U.S.S. YO-10 in EXMOUTH GULF and received 13,000 gallons of fuel. H.M.S. TANTIVY moored alongside oiler on opposite side from us.

1520 - Lieut. John (n) LADD, USNR, while on authorized inspection of H.M.S. TANTIVY, fell from outboard side of conning tower onto the saddle tanks, breaking left knee cap, dislocating left shoulder, lacerating face and causing possible brain concussion. First aid was rendered by NORRIS, Troy Bernard, PhMlC, USNR, and patient was removed to base dispensary for further treatment.

1820 - Transmitted PARGO Serial ONE.

2220 - Transmitted PARGO Serial TWO.

19 Jan. - Moored EXMOUTH GULF.

1000 - Transferred Lieut. John (n) LADD to Squadron 26 for treatment and further assignment and received as replacement officer Ensign Hubert B. BROM, USNR.

1943 - Underway enroute LOMBOK STRAIT.

2125 - Anchored northern end of EXMOUTH GULF to repair w/peel bearing on after end of No. 3 main motor.

20 Jan. - Anchored EXMOUTH GULF.

0045 - Transmitted PARGO Serial THREE.

— page 7 —
20 Jan. (Cont'd.)
0905 - Shifted anchorage to vicinity YO-10.
1345 - Transmitted PARGO Serial POUR.
1710 - Underway enroute LOMBOK STRAIT.
21 to - Enroute LOMBOK STRAIT; conducted training dives and drills.
23 Jan.
23 Jan.
1445 - Picked up land vicinity LOMBOK STRAIT on radar at 50 miles.
1557 - Submerged to await darkness.
1935 - Surfaced.
2052 - Commenced transit of LOMBOK STRAIT.
2255 - Completed uneventful transit of LOMBOK STRAIT.
24 Jan. - Enroute area. Conducted fire control drill.
0015 - Exchanged recognition signals and information on LOMBOK STRAIT with U.S. submarine via radar.
0640 - Submerged for trim dive.
0656 - Surfaced.
0930 - Aircraft on SD at 20 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 1).
1100 - Aircraft on SD at 22 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 2).
25 Jan. - Enroute area. Conducted fire control drill.
0947 - Aircraft on SD at 8 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 3). Submerged.
1028 - Surfaced.
26 Jan. - Enroute area. Conducted various drills.
0631 - Submerged for trim dive.

- 3 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 8 —
26 Jan. (Cont'd.)
0648 - .Surfaced.
1108 - Aircraft on SD at 9 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 4). Submerged.
1145 - Surfaced.
1200 - Aircraft on SD at 16 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 5). Also sighted bearing 020°T. Submerged.
1310 - Surfaced.
27 Jan. - Enroute area. Conducted fire control drill.
0120 - Completed uneventful transit of KARIMATA, STRAITS.
1055 - Crossed equator at Long. 107°-45' E.
Encountered several small sailboats during daylight in the vicinity of the TAMBELAN ISLANDS; avoided on surface.
28/29 Jan. - Enroute area. Made daily trim dives and conducted various drills.
30 Jan. - Enroute area. Conducted fire control drill.
0040 - Transmitted message on wolfpack frequency to U.S.S. KRAKEN, notifying her that we were entering area at longitude 110° E.
0130 - Entered assigned patrol area.
0652 - Submerged for trim dive.
0724 - Surfaced.
0852 - U.S.S. KRAKEN surfaced bearing 330° T, range 4000 yards, and fired signal gun recognition. Exchanged recognition signals and received instructions from O.T.C.
2110 - Submerged for night training dive.
2118 - Surfaced.

— page 9 —
30 Jan. (Cont'd.)

2315 - Pip on radar bearing 295° T, range 14,000 yards. Pip soon disappeared and was assumed to be an aircraft (Aircraft Contact No. 6).

31 Jan. - In area.

0125 - Heard and then sighted aircraft bearing 310° T, range 2000 yards (Aircraft Contact No. 7). Submerged. Aircraft was seen to turn and head for submarine but did not drop bombs.

0242 - Surfaced.

0320 - Pip on radar bearing 010° T, range 14,000 yards (Ship Contact No. 1). Turned toward and shortly thereafter picked up three smaller pips in the vicinity of the original target. A practically full moon behind a thin overcast gave excellent visibility. Targets were visible at 12,000 yards. Allowed range to close to 8000 yards and identified target group as a small warship (CL or DD) with three escorts, two of which were thought to be DEs. Picked out the largest of the four ships as target. Turned and ran with and ahead of group to track and send contact report. Targets were zigging about 30° each side of base course of 200° T and making 13 knots.

0342 - Went to battle stations and continued tracking and working for a submerged attack position.

0435 - Sent contact report on vol1pack frequency.

0450 - Heard contact report being relayed.

0455 - Would liked to have delayed attack until other submarines had contact but turned toward targets and dived to make an attack before the group reached the shallow water northwest of POULO CERIR DE MER. Decided to use radar set-ups until close escort was about 4500 yards away, then drop down for periscope attack.

0502 - Target was now steady on course 210° T at a range of 6500 yards, and we were 3500 yards off track to starboard expecting a zig toward. One escort was 4000 yards broad on target's starboard beam and another was 3000 yards on his port beam with the third escort about 1500 yards on his starboard quarter. This third escort was patrolling back and forth aft of the target.

- 5 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 10 —
0515 - Commenced firing 6 bow tubes at main target with 90° starboard track, small gyros, 8 second firing interval, and torpedo run of 2500 to 3000 yards; and at -

0517 - Commenced firing 3 stern tubes at escort which was passing astern with 125 port track, large left gyros, and torpedo run of 2500 to 3000 yards. Heard and saw one hit in main target just as second stern tube was fired. The hit was amidships and obscured three-fourths of target in spray and smoke. Sound reported breaking up noises - much hissing and crackling sounds, on true bearing of target immediately after the hit was heard. This was the only hit heard or observed. It is thought that stern tube target was alerted by explosion and maneuvered before torpedoes reached him. Near escort on our port bow turned toward.

0518 - Went deep and rigged for depth charge. Attempted to fire torpedo as we went down but were unable to open outer door. The trim line was used to equalize pressure, but by the time drain valve was closed and interlock shifted, the increase in depth had increased the pressure to such an extent that the outer door could not be opened. (Note - We have no outboard vents on any tubes but now recommend having them aft.)

0523 - Heard the last of the breaking up noises.

0528 - We were evading nicely at 290 feet and had secured when suddenly we started sinking on an even keel; speeded up and attempted to come up, but at -

0531 - Struck bottom gently with 2° rise bubble at 360 feet and wrecked both sound heads. Just before grounding we could hear 3 escorts overhead, two of whom were pinging; so at -

0532 - Stopped screws, secured all machinery, and lay on the bottom while we listened to the escorts trying to figure us out. We didn't like this method of evasion at all but hoped that the current running would throw the escorts off even though we were crunching around on what sounded like a coral or lava bottom as we swung to the current.

0533 - First of a string of 13 depth charges which were loud and shook boat but were not damaging. Current continued to push

— page 11 —
31 Jan. (Cont'd.)

us along the bottom causing some intermittent scraping and groaning noises which were by no means agreeable, but these stopped in about 15 minutes.

0602 - First of a string of 6 distant depth charges. Surface was very choppy and surface noises were high, which was of great assistance to us. Heard pinging and screws for next 3-1/2 hours, but no more charges were dropped. Only two escorts were up their now.

0940 - Lost sound contact with escorts.

1030 - Current apparently changed as scraping and groaning sounds became very loud, and we started to swing around again pivoting on the starboard sound head which could not be housed.

1040 - Made preparations to get underway.

1100 - Blew 15,000 lbs. from Safety Tank and started to rise.

1130 - At periscope depth, all clear.

1235 - Made reload.

1931 - Surfaced.

2200 - Transmitted PARGO Serial FIVE.

2204 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with KRAKEN.

1 Feb.

0643 - Submerged for trim dive.

0712 - Surfaced.

1240 - Aircraft on SD at 21 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 8).

1420 - Aircraft on SD at 12 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 9). Submerged.

1528 - Surfaced.

— page 12 —
1 Feb. (Cont'd.)
2130 - Departed area, to carry out special mission in accordance with CTG 71.1 despatch Serial 95 of 1 February 1945.
2 Feb. - Conducted various drills.
0010 - Contacted U.S.S. FLOUNDER by radar bearing 065° T, range 9000 yards. Maneuvered to rendezvous.
0230 - Major William L. Jinkins and W.O./1 Alec Chew, A.I.F., transferred via rubber boats from U.S.S. FLOUNDER and reported for duty.
0459 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with U.S.S. BLUEBACK.
0650 - Submerged for trim dive.
0732 - Surfaced.
3 Feb. - Enroute to conduct special mission.
1400 - Sighted PATTLE ISLAND bearing 145° T, range 25,000 yards.
1415 - Submerged to close and reconnoiter the island. Observed several well kept buildings and houses and two very large radio antenna masts (masts were measured by periscope to be 110 feet high).
1929 - Surfaced.
4 to 6 Feb. - Conducting Special Mission. Aircraft Contact No. 10 occurred during this period. (See separate report - U.S.S. PARGO Secret Serial 001 of 10 February 1945).
6 Feb. - Conducting Special Mission.
0903 - Completed Special Mission; commenced return to patrol area at 18 knots.
1015 - Sighted NELL type aircraft searching in vicinity of our recent activity, range 15 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 11).
1105 - Aircraft again appeared bearing 250° T, range 10 miles; submerged. Observed plane through periscope circling back to look for us until -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 13 —
6 Feb. (Cont'd.)

1125 - Plane disappeared bearing 148° T.

1255 - Surfaced.

1605 - Sighted NELL type aircraft bearing 215° T, range 15 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 12); not closing, so remained on surface.

2139 - Transmitted PARGO Serial SIX.

7 Feb. - Enroute previously assigned patrol area.

0651 - Submerged for trim dive.

0716 - Surfaced.

1135 - Sighted two FBM's bearing 200° T, range 10 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 13).

2130 - Entered patrol area assigned by CTG 71.1 despatch Serial 26 of 7 February at Lat. 12°-30' N.

2240 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with friendly submarine.

8 Feb.

0520 - Exchanged information with FLOUNDER.

0646 - Submerged for daylight patrol along coast.

0955 - Heard distant explosion.

1014 - Heard distant explosion.

1850 - Surfaced.

2230 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with FLOUNDER.

9 Feb. - Conducted fire control drill.

0631 - Submerged for daylight patrol off HON DOI.

1110 - Sighted two-masted schooner bearing 258° T; avoided.

- 9 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 14 —
9 Feb. (Cont'd.)

1928 - Surfaced.

10 Feb.

0305 - Exchanged recognition signals with FLOUNDER.

0323 - Set course to head for assigned station off CAMRANH BAY in accordance with orders from O.T.C. in FLOUNDER.

0630 - Submerged for daylight patrol along coast.

0805 - Sighted sailboat bearing 27° T, range 4 miles abided.

1220 - Sighted aircraft (JAKE) bearing 291° T, range 4 miles (aircraft Contact No. 14).

1321 - Sighted aircraft (RUFE) bearing 335° T, range 3 miles (aircraft Contact No. 15).

1340 - Sighted two aircraft (RUFE and EMILY) bearing 340° T, range 2 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 16).

1351 - JP picked up an unidentified noise bearing 000° T.

1353 - Sighted the tops of several ships bearing 340° T, range approximately 10,000 yards (Ship Contact No. 2). Changed course to close the range and commenced tracking.

1400 - Went to battle stations submerged. The convoy was on course 135° T, making 9 knots, running 4000 yards off beach.

1409 - There were now five ships visible: Two large tankers in column about 1000 yards apart with a frigate type escort 1500 yards on the beam of each target and one frigate about 1000 yards ahead of the leading ship. The tankers were the new standard T.L. type 54 MMP. The angle on the bow was now 30° port and range 5400 yards. If target did not zig away we would be in good position to fire with a 60° port track and torpedo run about 2500 yards. Three aircraft, RUFE, JAKE, and EMILY, were circling over convoy.

1410 - Made ready all tubes and set depth at 6 feet.

— page 15 —
10 Feb. (Cont'd.)

1416 - Target group had zigged 15° to starboard giving a 60° port angle on bow and range 4000 yards. Escorts were still in same relative position, and there was now an engine-amidships type freighter visible astern of the second tanker. Convoy was now approaching the entrance to CAMRANH and would soon turn to starboard to enter the bay; so decided to fire as soon as targets gave a 90° track.

1419:24 - Commenced firing six bow tubes with 85° port track, small right gyros, and torpedo run about 3500 yards. There was an escort about 1000 yards sharp on our starboard bow and three aircraft overhead; so immediately went deep and rigged for depth charge.

1420:04
1420:11

1421:15 - Heard two light bombs directed either at us or at the torpedoes.

1422:27 - Heard four torpedo explosions which checked exactly with times for four hits with a torpedo run of 4000 yards.

1422:33
1422:37
1422:52

1430 - Three sets of screws were close aboard and much pinging as we worked our way to the eastward to clear the area, but so far no depth charges. Heavy breaking up noises on this true bearing of the target were now very noticeable.

1507 - Heard distant explosion, depth charge.

1527 - Heard distant explosion, depth charge.

1540 - Heard distant explosion, depth charge.

1550 - Periscope depth; all clear except for one RUFE.

1618 - Heard distant explosion.

1752 - Heard two'distant explosions. Heard distant pinging for next hour but no more charges were dropped.

1940 - Surfaced, all clear.

- 11 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 16 —
1948 - Picked up FLOUNDER on radar bearing 330° T, range 11,000 yards, and exchanged information.

11 Feb. - Had strong 157 megacycle radar interference on APR all during night.

0142 - Sighted glow of two lights on land in vicinity of BAIE DE PHANRANG.

0621 - Submerged 14,000 yards from land and commenced closing for daylight patrol just north of HON DO.

0650 - Heard pinging on JP bearing 006° T.

0652 - Sighted two escort vessels bearing 006° T, range 12,000 yards (Ship Contact No. 3).

0705 - Now had four escorts in a line perpendicular to the beach about 2000 yards apart and heading for us. Decided that we may have been detected by radar before diving, and they were sweeping for us; or they were running an early sweep for a convoy but no large ships were in sight with 8 feet of periscope out. Commenced heading out to sea to let them pass and then close in again.

0720 - Sighted three aircraft (JAMES) circling over escorts (Aircraft Contact No. 17).

0725 - Two escorts reversed course and were heading north.

0736 - Sighted one large, engine-aft tanker and one large, engine-amidships passenger-freighter bearing 330° T with large port angle on bow, range 8000 yards. Recognized the ships to be same convoy we had attacked yesterday. One tanker of the type we had hit was missing. We now realized our error of running around the end of the sound sweep as it was impossible to close the range sufficiently for an effective attack, so decided to work out and attempt an end-around. The escort screen was 6000 to 8000 yards ahead of target until two of the escorts dropped back to take up a position nearer the targets. They were probably using the submarine detector loop around HON CHUT LIGHT for protection and sent the escorts well ahead for a sweep. The targets were on the land side of the sweep making it impossible to close in after the sweep passed, and they were so far astern that they were not visible when sweep first appeared. It was a smart trick and fooled us completely.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 17 —
11 Feb. (Cont'd.)

0950 - Could still hear escorts pinging.

0954 - Heard a distant explosion.

1008 - Heard distant explosion.

1015 - Heard a string of 5 explosions which sounded like aerial bombs.

1020 - Sighted large unidentified bomber bearing 261° T, range 4 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 18). Decided to give up idea of making an end-around in view of persistent enemy air cover and the fact that the convoy would reach the 10 fathom water between CAPE PADARAN and SALGON before we could close them.

1215 - Heard two more explosions (aerial bombs).

1216 - Sighted bomber (SALLY) bearing 292° T, range 2-1/2 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 19).

1507 - Sighted sailboat bearing 341° T, range 4 miles; avoided.

1927 - Surfaced.

2000 - Transmitted PARGO Serial SEVEN.

2010 - Set course for newly assigned patrol station.

12 Feb. - Enroute assigned patrol station. Conducted fire control drill.

0237 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with U.S.S. HAKE.

0630 - Reached assigned patrol station and commenced patrolling north and south.

1450 - Received contact report from U.S.S. BLACKFIN and headed for a position on target's track at best speed.

1525 - Sighted top of a large warship bearing 204° T, range 15 miles, and commenced tracking (Ship Contact No. 4).

1535 - Picked up target on radar at 14 miles.

1540 - Transmitted contact report on wolfpack frequency.

— page 18 —
12 Feb. (Cont'd.)

1600 - Went to battle stations and continued maneuvering for a position ahead.

1605 - Sighted U.S.S. CHARR, exchanged recognition signals and gave her bearing and range to target. CHARR came close aboard and said she would attack first.

1610 - Lost sight of target and lost him on radar as he passed into a large rain squall.

1627 - Sighted aircraft (JAKE) bearing 213° T, range 3 miles, and had very strong radar interference on APR at 157 megacycles (Aircraft Contact No. 20). Submerged.

1656 - Surfaced but could not regain contact with target group.

1725 - Sighted friendly submarine bearing 344° T, range 6 miles.

1917 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with FLOUNDER.

2228 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with BLACKFIN.

13 Feb. - Chasing large warships.

0053 - BLACKFIN on radar bearing 235° T, range 12,000 yards.

0545 - Aircraft on SJ radar bearing 058° T, range 5 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 21). Bearing changed rapidly and range opened.

0715 - Aircraft on SD at 7 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 22). Did not close.

0811 - Aircraft on SD at 20 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 23). Received IFF signals.

1015 - Picked up numerous aircraft on SD and by sight all identified to be friendly (Aircraft Contact No. 24).

1056 - Aircraft on SD at 18 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 25). Received IFF signals.

2020 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with friendly submarine.

- 14 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 19 —
14 Feb. - Conducting air-rescue patrol.

0655 - Submerged for trim dive.

0714 - Surfaced.

1025 - Aircraft on SD at 7 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 26). Recognized plane as friendly FBM and exchanged recognition signals.

1238 - Aircraft on SD at 13 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 27). Identified as friendly FBM.

1800 - Entered assigned patrol area enroute to coast.

15 Feb.

0638 - Submerged for daylight patrol off CAPE VARELLA.

0750 - Sighted masts of a small ship bearing 208° T, range 10,000 yards, as it rounded CAPE VARELLA, but we were unable to close or see him again as he blended in with the land. (Ship Contact No. 5).

0820 - Sighted unidentified bomber bearing 270° T, range 3 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 28).

1444 - Sighted aircraft (EMILY) bearing 304° T, range 4 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 29).

1930 - Surfaced.

1950 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with FLOUNDER.

2340 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with GUAVINA.

2358 - Picked up GUAVINA on radar bearing 242° T, range 10,500 yards.

16 Feb.

0015 - Made rendezvous with GUAVINA and received spare main motor bearing and official mail.

0635 - Submerged for daylight patrol off VANFONG BAY.

1050 - Sighted aircraft bearing 270° T, range 5 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 30).

- 15 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 20 —
16 Feb. (Cont'd.)
1159 - Sighted aircraft (RUFE) bearing 334° T, range 4 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 31).
1350 - Sighted aircraft (RUFE) bearing 281° T, range 4 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 32).
1456 - Sighted aircraft (RUFE) bearing 341° T, range 6 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 33).
1925 - Surfaced.
17 Feb.
0640 - Submerged for daylight patrol off CAPE VARELLA.
0830 - Sighted aircraft (NELL) bearing 165° T, range 4 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 34).
0920 - Sighted aircraft (NELL) bearing 194° T, range 4 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 35).
1925 - 'Surfaced.
2334 - Picked up FLOUNDER on radar bearing 020° T, range 11,000 yards.
18 Feb.
0242 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with HAKE.
0630 - Submerged for daylight patrol off CAPE VARELLA.
1025 - Sighted three aircraft (NELLS) bearing 190° T, range 10 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 36).
1045 - Sighted two escort vessels (frigates) bearing 210° T, range 14,000 yards, as they rounded CAPE VARELLA (Ship Contact No. 6).
1047 - Turned toward and went to battle stations. The three aircraft sighted earlier were circling very low over convoy throughout the approach. Continued to close convoy and coast but were unable to come any closer than about 8000 yards as

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 21 —
18 Feb. (Cont'd.)

convoy zigged left after passing MUI NAY and passed between coast and PERFORATED ROCK. Were unable to see any merchantmen until -

1130 - When two medium freighters became distinguishable against the white sand background behind PERFORATED ROCK.

1152 - Secured from battle stations and gave up the hopeless chase. The shallow water in which the targets were now running afforded no opportunity for an end-around before they anchored for the night.

1210 - Sighted sailboat bearing 340° T, range 3 miles; avoided.

1430 - Sighted two bombers (NELLS) bearing 225° T, range 2 miles (Air-craft: Contact No. 37).

1733 - Sighted two escorts (frigates) bearing 351° T, range 9500 yards (Ship's contact No. 7). They were heading southward about 5 miles of coast at 14 knots. Considered these targets too small for torpedo attack so we took tracking drill and avoided them.

1930 - Surface.

2005 - Exchanged recognition signals and information with FLOUNDER.

2340 - Exchanged recognition signals via radar with U.S.S. BERGALL.

19 Feb.

0008 - Made rendezvous with FLOUNDER and HAKE but decided not to attempt transfer of passengers or mail because of rough water.

0635 - Submerged for daylight patrol off CAPE VARELLA.

0736 - Sighted two large bombers (NELLS) bearing 186° T, range 8 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 38).

1246 - Heard very distant explosion.

1257 - Heard very distant explosion.

1303 - Sighted sailboat bearing 239° T; avoided.

- 17 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 22 —
19 Feb. (Cont'd.)

1350 - Sighted sailboat bearing 332° T; avoided.
1754 - Heard very distant explosion.
1920 - Surfaced.
2342 - Picked up two pips on radar bearing 027° T, ranges 9500 yards and 12,000 yards (Ship Contact No. 8). Immediately turned to run with targets and commenced tracking.
2400 - Found the targets to be making about 16 knots and zig-zagging on a base course of south. Commenced working to the eastward to place setting moon behind targets and let range close to 7500 yards to identify targets, and at -

20 Feb.

0029 - Identified closest target as a large destroyer and the far target as another small warship, probably a destroyer. Changed course to parallel and went ahead full on all four main engines to track and work for a position ahead. Sky was overcast, but a half moon lighted up the horizon so that a surface attack was not feasible at this time. Moonset was in 45 minutes; so decided to track until after moonset and make a surface radar attack. Noticed strong radar interference on APR at 156 kts with unusual characteristics similar to IFF rather than a search radar.
0059 - Sent contact report on wolfpack frequency and received a receipt from FLOUNDER, GUAVINA, BLENNY, and BECUNA.
0130 - An hour and a half of tracking showed targets to be using an irregular constant helm zig plan 30° each side of a base course of south and makin 17 knots. Leading ship was found to be largest of the two, and the targets were 2500 yards apart with smaller ship on port quarter of leading ship. An attack on the lead ship from starboard would thus keep us well clear of the rear ship; so decided to cross over in front of lead ship to attack him with the four remaining bow tubes from his starboard side.
0213 - Had gained the desired position and had timed our turn so that with a little adjustment we would be in a good firing position.

— page 23 —
20 Feb. (Cont'd.)

as target reached the end of his extreme right leg and started back to the left. Planned to fire when 2500 yards on his beam with a torpedo run of about 3000 yards.

0225: - Made ready all tubes, set depth 5 feet. Turned toward and slowed to 6 knots. to present a minimum silhouette and wake.

0224: - Plan worked beautifully, and we were now 2800 yards on his beam. He had just made his zig to the left and steadied up; so at -

0225:08 - Fired four bow tubes with small right gyros, 90° to 100° starboard track, and torpedo run 2900 to 3100 yards. How many torpedoes hit will never be known because at -

0225:29 - 0225:39

0227:15 - First torpedo hit was immediately followed by a tremendous explosion which tore the destroyer steam from stern and blew the middle sky-high. A column of fire and streaks of molten metal went up from under the bridge at least 3000 feet in the most spectacular sight any of us had ever seen. Burning embers were still falling downward 1 minute later, and the target had completely disintegrated. The nearest thing that can describe it are the pictures of the U.S.S. SHAW blowing up at Pearl Harbor on December 7th; so we have unofficially chalked this one up as, "Heavens for the SHAW." The pip-cn radar broke in to several parts, and the interference on our APR ceased with the explosion.

0332 - The target faded completely from sight at 3000 yards and from the radar screen at 4500 yards. The other destroyer was tracked out to 14,000 yards while we retired to the northeast and he depth charged the scene of the attack. Heard a total of 13 heavy explosions. Figured that there was nothing further that we could do at present, because the remaining destroyer would probably be busy depth charging and milling around until dawn which was not far away, we were already 12 miles into the area of the BECUNA wolfpack which was south of us, and they had been notified of our activity and would be able to handle this other ship when he started running south again.

0350 - Exchanged recognition and information with FLOUNDER.

— page 24 —
20 Feb. (Cont'd.)

- 0418 - Picked up FLOUNDER on radar bearing 080° T, range 9,700 yards; avoided.
- 0804 - Submerged for trim dive.
- 0842 - Surfaced.
- 0917 - Aircraft on SD at 12 miles closing at high speed (Aircraft Contact No. 39); submerged.
- 0955 - Surfaced.
- 1132 - Sighted FLOUNDER bearing 240° T, range 8 miles.

21 Feb.

- 0025 - Made rendezvous with FLOUNDER and transferred Major W. L. Jinkins and W.O./1 Alec Chew of A.I.F.
- 0225 - Transmitted PARGO Serial EIGHT.
- 1730 - Departed assigned patrol area for PEARL HARBOR in accordance with CTG 71.1, despatch Serial No. 22 of 21 February 1945.
- 2328 - Transmitted PARGO Serial NINE.

22 Feb.

- Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
- 0650 - Submerged for trim dive.
- 0715 - Surfaced.
- 2310 - Exchanged recognition signals by radar with HAKE.

23 Feb.

- Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
- 0420 - Transmitted PARGO Serial ONE to CTF 17.
- 0636 - Submerged for trim dive.
- 0700 - Surfaced.
- 1245 - Aircraft on SD at 18 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 40).

- 20 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 25 —
1500 - Aircraft on SD at 7 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 41); submerged.
: 1537 - Surfaced.
: 24 Feb. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
: 0855 - Aircraft on SD at 14 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 42). Closed to 7 miles; submerged.
: 0935 - Surfaced.
: 1015 - Aircraft on SD at 14 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 43). Picked up by SJ at 12 miles, bearing 230° T.
: 1210 - Aircraft on SD at 16 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 44).
: 2310 - Exchanged recognition signals with U.S.S. HAKE via radar.

: 25 Feb. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
: 0500(I) - Advanced clocks one hour to conform to zone -9 time.
: 1143(I) - Sighted U.S.S. HAKE bearing 105° T and joined up with her.
: 2110(I) - Made rendezvous with HAKE and transferred official mail and movies.

: 26 Feb. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
: 0635(I) - Submerged for trim dive.
: 0657(I) - Surfaced.
: 27 Feb. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
: 0930(I) - Sighted unidentified aircraft bearing 200° T, range 13 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 45).

: 28 Feb. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
: 0630(I) - Submerged for trim dive.
: 0639(I) - Surfaced.

— page 26 —
28 Feb. (Cont'd.)
1000(K) - Advanced the clocks one hour to conform to zone -10 time.
1550(K) - Picked up four friendly planes on SD at various ranges (Aircraft Contact No. 46).
1900(K) - Sighted two friendly submarines on parallel and opposite course.
1 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR. Sighted numerous surface vessels and friendly aircraft in the vicinity of SAIPAN ISLAND.
0859(K) - Sighted escort bearing 0650 T, range 8 miles, and proceeded to SAIPAN.
1702(K) - Moored alongside HAKE along port side of U.S.S. FULTON in TANAPAG HARBOR, SAIPAN.
2 Mar. - Moored in TANAPAG HARBOR, SAIPAN. Received 45,000 gallons of fuel oil, 1000 gallons of lub. oil, 4000 gallons fresh water, and fresh provisions. Transferred three Mark 18-1 torpedoes to U.S.S. FULTON and received four Mark 23 torpedoes from U.S.S. HAKE.
3 Mar. - Moored in TANAPAG HARBOR, SAIPAN.
1010(K) - Underway enroute PEARL HARBOR in company with HAKE.
1045(K) - Made rendezvous with escort.
1545(K) - Submerged for trim dive.
1609(K) - Surfaced.
1800(K) - Parted company with escort.
2200(K) - Passed friendly submarine.
4 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
0940(K) - Sighted friendly submarine bearing 050° T.
1500(L) - Set clocks ahead 1 hour to conform to zone -11 time.

— page 27 —
5 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
0247(L) - Exchanged recognition signals with friendly submarine.
0647(L) - Submerged for trim dive.
0700(L) - Surfaced.

6 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
2035(L) - Lost contact with HAKE.
7 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
1027(L) - Submerged for trim dive.
1035(L) - Surfaced.

8 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
0600(M) - Set clocks ahead one hour to conform to -12 Zone Time.

9 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
1535(M) - Submerged for trim dive.
1547(M) - Surfaced.

10 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
0900(Y) - Set clocks back 24 hours to conform to +12 Zone Time and repeat the day 9 March.
1000(Y) - Crossed the 180th meridian at latitude 20° N.
10 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
0900(X) - Set clocks ahead one hour to conform to +11 Zone Time.
11 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
2035(X) - Exchanged recognition signals with HAKE.
12 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
1300(X) - Set clocks ahead one hour to conform to +10 Zone Time.

- 23 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 28 —
1700(W) - Submerged for trim.dive.
: 1715(W) - Surfaced.
: 13 Mar. - Enroute PEARL HARBOR.
: 0500(W) - Set clocks ahead 1/2 hour to conform to 49 Zone Time.
: 1130(V-W) - Made rendezvous with escort, PO465, and proceeded to port.
: 1530(V-W) - Moored Submarine Base, PEARL HARBOR.

— page 30 —
0342 12-38N: 9500 & 180° T: Attacked & sank
8: 19 Feb 109°-40°E: 2 DDs 12,000 17 Kts.: R: one DD

- 26 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 31 —
1:Time :Lat. : : :Initial:Est.Course:How Con-:
No.:Date :Long. :Type(s) :Range :tacted :Remarks
:0930 :6-061S: : : : : :Did not
1 :24Jan:116-32'E:Unident. :2Mi. : : :R :close S/M
:1100 :6-18'S: : : : :Did not
2 :24Jan:116-20'E:Unident. :22Mi. : : :R :close S/M
:0947 :5-16'S: : : : : :
3 :25Jan:112-55'E:Unident. :8Mi. : : :R :Submerged
:1108 :4-11'S: : : : : :
4 :26Jan:109-39'E:Unident. :9Mi. : : :R :Submerged
:1200 :3-52'S: : : : : :
5 :26Jan:109-40'E:Unident. :16Mi. : : :R :Submerged
:2315 :11-03'N: : : : :Did not
6 :30Jan:109-15'E:Unident. :7Mi. : : :R(SJ) :close S/M
:0125 :11-09'N: : : :South : :
7 :31Jan:109-16'E:Unident. :1Mi. :150Kts. :SN :Submerged
:1240 :11-54'N: : : : :Did not
8 :1Feb.:110-20'E:Unident. :21Mi. : : :R :detect S/M
:1420 :11-42'N: : : : :
9 :1Feb.:110-06'E:Unident. :12Mi. : : :R :Submerged
:1251 :16-50'N: : : :Circling : :
10 :5Feb.:112-20'E:PB: :6Mi. :120Kts. :P : :
:1015 :10-50'N: : : :Circling : :Did not
11 :6Feb.:112-20'E:NELL :15Mi. : : :SD :detect S/M
:1605 :15-27'N: : : : :Did not
12 :6Feb.:111-58'E:NELL :15Mi. : : :SD :detect S/M
:1135 :13-29'N: : : : :Did not
13 :7Feb.:110-27'E:2FMs :10Mi. :200Kts. :SD :detect S/M
:1220 :11-8'N: : : :Circling : :Did not
14 :10Feb:109-18'E:JAKE :4Mi. : : :F :detect S/M
:1321 :12-56'N: : : :Circling : :Did not
15 :10Feb:109-19'E:RUFE :3Mi. : : :F :detect S/M
:1340 :12-56'N:RUFE & : : :Circling : :Did not
16 :10Feb:109-19'E:EMILY :2Mi. : : :F :detect S/M
:0720 :11-49'N: :3to :Circling : :Did not
17 :11Feb:109-15'E:3JAKES :5Mi. : : :F :detect S/M
:1020 :11-30'N:Unident. : :Circling : :Was dropping
18 :11Feb:109-12'E:Lg.bq: :4Mi. : : :F :bombs
:1216 :11-24'N: : : :110T :Did not
19 :11Feb:109-10'E:SALLY :28Mi. :15Kts. :P :detect S/M
:1627 :10-00'N: : : :120T : :
20 :12Feb:110-41'E:JAKE :3Mi. :150Kts. :SD :Submerged

- 27 -

— page 33 —
Time :Lat. :  :  Initial:Est.Course:How Con-:
No.:Date :Long. :Type(s) :Range & Speed :tacted :Remarks
:0855 :20-07N: :  :  :  :  :
42 :24 Feb:117-51E:Unident. :14 Mi. :

— page 34 —
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA.
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 7
Time 0515 Date 31 Jan. 1945 Lat. 10°-59' N Long. 109°-06' E

Target Data -- Damage Inflicted
Description One small CL or large DD (Silhouette and size similar to that of TENRYU class CL, Page 43, ONI 41) with three DE escorts. Contacted at night by radar. Visibility was good; a practically full moon behind a thin overcast made targets visible at 12,000 yards.

Ship(s) Sunk None.
Ship(s) Damaged -- Observed at night on surface at 8000 yards and through periscope at 2500 yards.
Damage Determined by Saw and heard one hit amidships; was forced down before smoke and spray cleared. Heard breaking up noises for 5 minutes after hit. Heard two pingers and only three sets of screws after attack.

Target Draft 101 Course 210° T Speed 13.5 Range 2500 (at firing)

Owm Ship Data
Speed 3 Course 120° T Depth 62° Angle 10° D (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data
Type Attack Submerged night radar periscope attack with six bow tubes using radar ranges and bearings until range to nearest escort was 4500 yards, then using periscope bearings and angles on the bow to track and fire. Although near escort came into a good firing set-up first, fire was withheld until torpedoes were on their way to the main target to be sure of him. Then the stern tubes were fired at the escort who was perfectly silhouetted in the moon streak, accepting the available set-up, hoping to hit him if he did not become alerted.

INCLUSION (A)

— page 36 —
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.

U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL NO. 7

Time 0517 Date 31 Jan. 1945 Lat. 16°-59' N Long. 109°-06' E

Target Data -- Damage Inflicted

Description Target was a DE in the same group as target in attack No. 1.

Ship(s) Sunk None.

Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk None.

Damage Determined by -

Target Draft 71 Course 220° T Speed 13.5 Range 1500 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed 3 Course 120° T Depth 60 Angle 10° D (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Submerged night radar periscope attack with three stern tubes using radar ranges and bearings until target range was 4500, then shifting to periscope bearings and angles on the bow for tracking and firing.

- 32 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 38 —
34: ENCLOSURE (A)

---

**CONFIDENTIAL**

**Subject:** U.S.S. FARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.

**Time:** 1419

**Date:** 10 Feb. 1945

**Lat:** 12°51' N

**Long.:** 109°20' E

---

**Target Data — Damage Inflicted**

**Description:** Two partially loaded engine-aft tankers, standard T.L. type 54 MMF, and one unidentified engine-amidship passenger-freighter with three frigate type escorts and three aircraft escorts. Contacted on JP by pinging at 12,000 yards in daylight with good visibility, but ships were not sighted earlier because of their land background.

**Ship(s) Sunk:** One engine-aft tanker; standard T.L. type 54 MMF, 10,000 tons EC (Identified by periscope observation at close range in daylight). Sunk: AO. (Similar to T.L. Type 54) - 10,000 tons (EC).

**Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk:** None.

**Damage Deter-mined by:** Four timed hits followed by loud breaking noises for one hour after firing on the bearing of the target. Ob-served convoy following morning, and the target was missing. U.S. Navy air coverage of the harbor's and coast in area of attack would have discovered target if it had been in harbor or beached.

**Target Draft:** 20' Course 196° T Speed 9 Range 3500 (at firing)

---

**Own Ship Data**

**Speed:** 3 Course 280° T Depth 63' Angle 10° D (at firing)

---

**Fire Control and Torpedo Data**

**Type Attack:** Submerged day periscope attack with 6 bow tubes in 45 fathoms of green colored water with good choppy surface waves.

— page 40 —
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.

U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4 PATHOL-NO. 7

Time 0226 Date 20 Feb. 1945 lat. 12-48' N Long. 109-38' E

Target Data -- Damage Inflicted

Description Target was a large DD very similar in size and silhouette to one of the TERRITUSKI class (ONI 41-42, UN-1) in company with another small warship which was believed to be a smaller DD. Contact was made by radar at 12,000 yards on a dark night. Initial identification was made at 7500 yards when target was silhouetted by a setting moon. Further identification made by Commanding Officer, O.O.D., and Major William L. Jinkins during attack phase. Target length was measured by binocular formula as about 400 feet.

Ship(s) Sunk: One DD (TERITUSKI class) - 2300 tons (EU).

Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk: None.

Damage Deter-mined by Saw, heard, and felt first torpedo hit and create the most tremendous explosion ever seen by any of the officers on the bridge. Ship was torn stem from stern and middle went up in a mass of smoke and flame three hundred feet high. Ship disappeared from sight in the smoke and spray, but radar could distinguish several floating pieces for two or three minutes after hit. All of ship was lost from radar screen when range to last piece was only 4500 yards. Other smaller ship was followed out to 14,000 yards as we retired from the scene.

Target Draft 10' Course 120° T Speed 17 Range 2800 (at firing)

CWN Ship Data

Speed 6' Course 100° T Depth Surface Angle 0° (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack Night surface radar attack with four bow tubes on a very dark night using estimates of angle on bow and TBT bearings to check radar solution.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 42 —
1. MINES.
No mine laying or mine sweeping operations were observed. A convoy was observed passing between land and PERFORATED ROCK just north of CAPE VARELLA. This passage is very narrow and water is shallow enough for Mark 12 mines.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

1. Enemy merchant convoys attempted to avoid submarine attack by running in shallow water very close to shore and were accompanied by heavy air and surface escort. The air escorts flew less than 200 feet above water. The escorts on several occasions ran well ahead of convoy (4000 to 8000 yards) and well to seaward and then would drop back and close the convoy. This system made the escorts visible long before any good targets were seen and gave the appearance of an anti-submarine sweep. Instead of a convoy. The convoys averaged one escort and one plane for each ship in convoy.

2. Night radar planes were encountered but did not attack. Destroyers and other small warships passing along the coast ran off shore and used high speed and radical zig-zag plans. A decided increase in the use of radar by the enemy was noted (See section on "Interception of Enemy Radar Transmissions").

3. The usual methods of counter-attack by the enemy were encountered, and we evaded by going deep and clearing the area at 2/3 speed. One one occasion we struck bottom at 360 feet during evasion and remained there until anti-submarine vessels were well out of range.

During the evasion after the attack on 10 February, on several occasions sound reported a "swishing-bubbling" noise when an escort was near. One occasion is especially remembered as two escorts were pinging and running on each quarter when suddenly screws were heard close aboard bearing 330° relative and crossing our bow. This last escort had apparently been lying-to, listening. He gained bearing to 350° relative before he started dropping aft due to our twisting to starboard. At about the time he was the closest, sound reported, "Sounds like something falling through the water!". The next millennium dragged on and on until finally we realized that whatever it was, it was too late for it to harm us. In view of the very few explosions heard during this evasion, it is believed that the escorts were using some sort of contact charges -- or a lot of duds.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 43 —
1. U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.

Derangement No. 2 - I.C. Motor Generators.

On 18 January power cut-out switch from lighting motor generator to No. 1 and No. 2 I.C. motor generators burned out, necessitating jumping entire switch. The connecting bolts from bus bar to terminals of switch became overheated when carrying normal load and burned out bake-lite and switch.

Derangement No. 3 - No. 2 I.C. Motor Generator.

On 4 March bearing failure occurred on generator end. Bearing was removed and found to have several badly worn bearing balls. A new bearing was installed. Failure is believed due to long use.

Derangement No. 4 - Main Motors.

A low insulation resistance on the armature of No. 3 main motor has gradually been decreasing during the entire patrol, being about 2 meg at the beginning of the patrol and dropping to 250,000 ohms while enroute to PEARL HARBOR. No. 1 main motor has developed the same malady and is now down to 750,000 ohms. The low readings are undoubtedly due to carbon dust held on the windings by an oil film. Forward bearing on No. 3 and after bearing on No. 1 both show signs of oil leakage and motors must occasionally be stopped and oil wiped out.

(L) RADIO.

Reception from VIXQ was good at night and fair during the day. Own transmissions were promptly receipted for. Reception from NFM while enroute SAIPAN from area was poor at night, being best during day around 1800 GCT. Casualties were of minor nature and easily remedied.

2. VHF operation was satisfactory during the patrol. No equipment failures occurred.

(M) RADAR.

1. The SD-2 and SJa radars both gave good performances throughout the patrol. Only minor and easily remedied casualties were encountered.

2. The IFF gear was used more during this patrol than any previous one and performed satisfactorily and helped to identify numerous aircraft. No equipment failures occurred.

— page 44 —
1. Engineering.
Der: 2. Maintenance.

On January 1st, 1945, the submarine was discovered during routine inspection that there was excessive play in the salt water pump drive shaft. Pump was pulled and following was found: Pump casting had been gouged by impeller blades, both bearing races had failed due to excessive wear and corrosion, and a large amount of foreign matter was packed around impeller shaft inside casing. A new pump was installed. Failure is attributed to use and age, and it is hoped that all pumps will be renewed during coming refit.

Derangement No. 2 - No. 1 and No. 2 Distiller Units.

The newly installed leather oil seal rings began leaking after 30 hours of operation. It has been the experience of this vessel that neoprene rings are far superior to the leather rings.

Derangement No. 3 - No. 2 Main Engine.

On January 1st, during routine inspection, bearing metal was found in the lub oil cylinder element. Check of all Conn. rod bearings revealed that shells on No. 9 unit were installed backwards. Bearing was worn excessively. Filled the entire unit and found the piston pin and bushing had excessive clearance and the liner had high spots between the air ports. Renewed the liner, entire piston assembly, and Conn. rod bearing. This unit showed signs of trouble during the previous patrol and was pulled. Repaired and reinstalled with a new piston by the refit crew. This engine had 222 hours of operation since the refit.

2. Electrical.

Derangement No. 1 - No. 3 Main Motor.

On January 1st, while under normal load, the after bearing wiped severely. It was discovered that a piece of lint had entered the lub oil system and had resurfaced the flow of oil at the needle valve. Renewed the bearing with the spare and ran the lub oil through the purifiers and cleaned all needle valves. The wiped bearing was repoured on board to be ready for use in case of emergency; fortunately, it was not needed.

- 40 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 45 —
1. USS, S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS.

1. VOA: After satisfactory performance during the first attack, both sound heads were wrecked when the ship grounded during evasion, resulting in loss of the VOA system for the remainder of the patrol.

2. JP-1: Carrying the entire sound burden as a result of loss of the VOA system, the JP-1 gave excellent results. Long range contacts and excellent tracking during both attack and evasion were characteristic. No casualties occurred.

3. No unusual sound conditions were noted.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS.

None observed.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY.

1. In general, the health of the crew was excellent. A total of 18 man days were lost as follows:

| Condition | Number of Days |
|||
| Cellulitis (left knee) | 4 days |
| Cellulitis (left knee) | 6 days |
| Catarrhal Fever | 4 days |
| Sprain (right knee and right ankle) | 4 days |
|           | 14 days |

2. Food was plentiful and well prepared.

3. The coco air and water along the coast of INDO CHINA at this time of year made the ship very comfortable.

(Q) PERSONNEL.

1. Number of men on board during patrol | 70 |
| Number of men qualified at start of patrol | 57 |
| Number of men qualified at end of patrol | 60 |
| Number of unqualified men making their first patrol | 9 |
| Number of men advanced in rating during patrol | 4 |

2. Qualification school was conducted daily by the officers. A very large percentage of the unqualified men were making their first patrol; and, although only three were qualified, it is felt that a great deal was learned and the others will qualify shortly.

— page 46 —
3. After passing WAKE ISLAND enroute PEARL HARBOR, the watch list was rearranged to afford opportunity for training new officers and men in new stations.

4. The performance of the officers and crew in all situations was in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Navy, and it is a pleasure to be on board with such an outfit.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED.

FRIGATE TO AREA 1,725 miles 23,500 gals.
In area 5,636 miles 72,500 gals.
Area to SAIPAN 2,400 miles 35,000 gals.
SAIPAN to PEARL HARBOR 3,300 miles 52,000 gals.
Total 13,061 miles 183,000 gals.

(S) DURATION.

Days enroute to area 8 days
Days in area 29 days
Days enroute SAIPAN 8 days
Days enroute SAIPAN to PEARL HARBOR 13 days
Days submerged 12 days

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING.

Torpedoes - Fuel - Provisions - Personnel Factor

3 5000 14 days 14 days

Limiting factor this patrol - Torpedoes

(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES.

1. Interception of enemy radar transmissions.
   a. Ship or station - U.S.S. PARGO (SS264).
   b. Area covered. this mission - Waters adjacent to INDO CHINA coast.
   c. Intercept equipment - APR-1 and SPA-1.

- 42 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 47 —
1. 1/23/45 9°-00'S 115°-30'E 200 1000 7
2. 1/26/45 2°-00'S 108°-10'E 125 500 -
3. 1/31/45 13°-55'N 109°-41'E 156 1000 11 (a) (b)
4. 2/10/45 10°-47'N 110°-36'E 156 750 8
5. 2/12/45 10°-47'N 110°-34'E 156 600 7
6. 2/12/45 10°-47'N 110°-34'E 142 600 7-10
7. 2/20/45 17°-31'N 110°-35'E -
e. Discussion of interceptions.

(1) Located on south side of LOMBOK STRAIT. Radiation appeared on screen every 100 seconds in slow sweeps.
(2) Very weak radiation near KARIMATA ISLA'DS.
(3) This radiation was weak at first, giving slow sweep across scope every 100 seconds. It became much stronger, staying on screen constantly as shown in sketch (a). It reached saturation and appeared as shown in sketch (b) when plane was sighted at 1000 yards.
(4) This radiation was present on the SPA-1 scope constantly during one entire night off CAPE PADARAN. It was usually present on the scope from 1 to 3 minutes, then swept slowly off to return in 90 seconds. Gave all evidences of a land based set which had picked us up.

— page 48 —
5. Both of these radiations were picked up at the same time and also when the Sua had a ship contact at 26,000 yards. The 156 mops sweep became very strong and had reached saturation when we dived for a float plane at 4 miles. The 142 mops radiation appeared on the scope sometimes as a single pulse, then as a double one, as shown in sketches.

(6) This occurred simultaneously with an aircraft pip on the SJa at 17,000 yards. SJa lost contact and the sweep faded out on the SPA-l scope.

(7) This radiation occurred throughout a night surface attack on a large DD and escort. It was observed from 0 to 1000 mops, strongest at about 160 mops. It flashed on the screen about every 2 or 3 seconds, much in the same manner as a keyed interference pattern. It gave none of the characteristics of a search radar and disappeared when the DD was sunk.

(V) REMARKS.

1. It is believed that the coast of INDO-CHINA between VAN FONG BAY and CAPE TOURAINE could be very profitably mined by submarines laying a series of small fields about thirty miles apart.

2. Much valuable tanker and transport traffic runs in the 10 to 20 fathom water along the above coast where it is extremely difficult for submarines to maintain station due to currents and aircraft. Nevertheless, at night submarines could mine these waters and stop some of these ships that are getting passed us.

3. Three new officers were received to replace officers transferred; and, in spite of their lack of experience, they fitted into the organisation admirably and pulled their share of the load with enthusiasm.

— page 49 —
1. The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
       (2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
       (3) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. PARGO (SS 264) SEVENTH WAR PATROL - Comments on.

1. The Seventh War Patrol of the U.S.S. PARGO was conducted off the INDO-CHINA Coast. The patrol was of 58 days duration and was made under the operational control of Task Force 71.

2. The torpedo attacks made were aggressively conducted and severe damage was inflicted upon the enemy.

3. A summary of torpedo attacks follows:

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 1 - 31 January 1945 - This was a submerged night radar-periscope attack made with a bright moon to silhouette the targets. The target group consisted of a small cruiser or a large destroyer escorted by three DE type escorts. Six Mark 23 torpedoes were fired at the small cruiser or large destroyer and one hit was seen and he'd rad amidships. Anti-submarine activities forced the PARGO to deep submergence but distinct breaking up noises were heard five minutes after the torpedo hit was seen. Only three sets of screws were heard thereafter. It is believed that this target sank.

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 2 - 31 January 1945 - Two minutes after firing the bow torpedoes at the cruiser type target above, the PARGO fired three Mark 18s from the stern tubes at one of the escorts. No hits were seen or heard.

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 3 - 10 February 1945 - This was a submerged day periscope attack made against a convoy consisting of two en-ine-saft tankers, one passenger-freighter, three frigate type escorts and three air escorts. One of the 10,000 ton tankers was singled out as the target and six Mark 23s were fired at it. One of the escorts forced the PARGO deep but four timed hits were heard followed by loud breaking up noises. Observation of the convoy the

— page 50 —
16 March 1945

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

Subject: USS PARGO (SS 264) SEVENTH 'VAR PATROL - Comments on.

following, morning, indicated that one of the tankers was missing. The Commanding Officer of the PARGO claims a sinking in this attack.

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 4 - 20 February 1945 - This was a night surface radar attack. The target consisted of a large destroyer of the THRUTSUKI class in company with another small war ship which was believed to be a small destroyer. An excellent approach was made on the larger of the targets and four Mark 23s were fired. The first torpedo hit the target and blew it to bits with a tremendous explosion.

4. In addition to the above brilliant torpedo attacks, the PARGO conducted a special mission successfully. The PARGO also bombarded a Japanese military weather and radio station on WOODY ISLAND. This bombardment was extremely effective in that the radio and weather station was destroyed and many of the administration buildings were hit and badly damaged.

5. The PARGO arrived from patrol in an excellent state of cleanliness and with morale high. After voyage repairs the PARGO will proceed to the Coast for decontamination overhaul.

6. The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR heartily congratulates the Commanding Officer, the Officers and crew for this aggressive and successful war patrol.

E. W. GRENFELL

— page 51 —
11/jfs
FC5-4/AU-3
S: 0228
20 March 1945.
CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND INSTRUCTIONS:
USS FARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.
From: T/C Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
To: T/C Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: (1) T/C Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET, Administration.
(2) T/C Commander-in-Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET.
Subject: U.S.S. FARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol.

1. For added context, concurring in the remarks of the Commander Submarine Division FORT-FOUR.
2. To Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR congratulate the Commander-in-Chief, officers, and crew of the U.S.S. FARGO upon completion of an aggressive and determined patrol, resulting in very important losses to the enemy.

3. It is recommended that the FARGO be credited with the following:
   - 1. A0 (1), 10,000 tons
   - 1. DD (1), 22,200 tons
   - Total SSN or DD or 12,200 tons, plus
     - 1. LAD-1 (CL or DD)
     - 1. U.S. flag
     - V. V. ORGAN.

— page 52 —
0926
Serial: 0598
CONFIDENTIAL
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
PARGO Report of
Seventh War Patrol.
CONCUSPASC PATROL REPORT NO. 693
U.S.S. PARCO - SEVENTH WAR PATROL.
From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. PARCO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol (15 January to 13 March 1945).

1. The seventh war patrol of the PARCO, under the command of Lieutenant-Commander D. B. Bell, U.S. Navy, was conducted off the coast of Indo-China. The PARCO operated at times with various coordinated attack groups as well as conducting independent patrol.

2. With excellent area coverage the PARGO made ten contact wcrthy of torpedo fire. Four aggressive attacks were delivered which accounted for a large tanker, a TERTUSUKI type destroyer, and another unidentified man-of-war, either a light cruiser or large destroyer. The PARGO, in addition to inflicting this severe damage upon the enemy successfully carried out a special mission which is the subject of a separate report.

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

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the commanding officer, officers, and crew of the PARGO for this aggressive and highly successful patrol. This is the seventh successive, successful patrol for this fighting ship. In these seven patrols the PARGO has sunk fourteen ships for a total tonnage of 92,920, and damaged nine ships for a total tonnage of 45,583. Numbers of ships include only those over 500 tons. The PARGO is credited with having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy during this patrol:

SUNK
1 - Large DD or CL (EU) - 2,500 tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - Large AO (T.L. Type 54 MANF) (EC) - 10,000 tons (Attack No. 3)
1 - Large DD (Similar to TERTUSUKI Type) (EC) - 2,300 tons (Attack No. 4)

TOTAL SUNK - 14,800 tons*

EXTRA - ORIGINAL
SORG. - MICRO
PHOTO-LAB - OP-16
RETURN TO F-4253

— page 53 —
593
Serial: 0598
Confidential
TETRD ENDORSEMENT to
FARGO Report of
Seventh War Patrol.
CONTESTATAROL REPORT NO. 693
U.S.S. FARGO - SEVENTH WAR PATROL.
Subject: U.S.S. FARGO (SS264) - Report of Seventh War Patrol
(15 January to 13 March 1945).

In addition to the above the FARGO made an effective shore bombardment against Woody Island of the Amphrite Group in the Paraocel Islands.

*NOTES:
- Since the above damage was done in areas under the operational control of Commander Task Force SEVENTY-ONE, he is requested to assume credit accordingly.

MERRILL COMSTOCK.

DISTRIBUTION:
328. U.S.S. FARGO (SS264)

— page 54 —
139 673

U.S.S. PARGO (SS264)
SS264/A16-3
Serial 08

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
9 September 1945.

SPECIAL ASSIGNED:
From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (Official Channels).

Subject: U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) -- Report of Eighth War Patrol.

Enclosures: (A) Subject report.
(B) Track chart.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Eighth War Patrol of this vessel, conducted in the JAPAN SEA during the period 30 July 1945 to 9 September 1945, is forwarded herewith.

D. B. BELL.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.C
BY OP-2883C - DATE 5/31/42

DECLASSIFIED

— page 55 —
13 Mar. - PARGO moored Submarine Base, PEARL HARBOR, from Seventh War Patrol.

17 Mar. - Completed voyage repairs and sailed for SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF.

24 Mar. - Arrived U.S. Naval Dry Dock, HUNTER'S POINT, CALIF. Conducted surface and submerged sound tests, unloaded remaining torpedoes, and proceeded to Navy Yard, MARE ISLAND, for overhaul.

25 Mar. - Commenced overhaul by Navy Yard, MARE ISLAND. The following major alterations and repairs were accomplished in addition to normal overhaul routine:

ENGINEERING

1. Installed dummy log equipment.
2. Installed an additional 15 KVA I.C. Motor Generator.
3. Welded various cracks in all four main engines.
4. Renewed No. 1 main motor armature.
5. Installed new Bureau type resistors in bow and stern plane electric clutch systems.
6. Renewed all four main generator armatures.

RADIO, RADAR AND SOUND

1. Installed NGA fathometer in place of NM fathometer.
2. Installed QLA equipment on QB shaft and relocated QB on a deck mount.
3. Installed 7 MC interior communication system.
4. Installed model ST periscope and radar.
5. Installed model DAS-3 radio navigation equipment.
6. Installed depth charge indicator system.
7. Replaced SCR-522 VHF with a model SCR-624-A VHF.
8. Replaced RAL-5 with RBH-2 high frequency receiver.
9. Replaced SD-2 transmitter with a model SD-3.

HULL

1. Enlarged and rearranged Conning Tower. Moved SJ mast to after end of shear structure. Removed SD mast from Conning Tower and installed SD tower aft of Conning Tower.
2. Installed hydraulic periscope and SD antenna mast hoists.
3. Installed booster blower in hull ventilation supply to Forward Battery and Forward Torpedo Room.
4. Relocated 200 lb. air compressor in Forward Engine Room.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 56 —
5. Altered bow plane rigging to provide for rigging planes in at any dive angle between 0° and 15°.
6. Removed branch vent risers from Main Ballast Tanks 1 and 7.
7. Altered deck hatches and cages to make main vents on Fuel Ballast Tanks 3 and 5 more accessible.
8. Installed depth charge dogs on all hatches.
9. Altered capstan hydraulic system to provide an emergency hydraulic pressure supply for main hydraulic system.
10. Installed 5" ammunition scuttle in After Battery above magazine.
11. Packed propeller shafts with steel grit.
12. Routed all electric cables running from Conning Tower to Control Room through old SD trunk.
13. Installed root stop valves on high pressure manifold for Bow Buoyancy, Safety, and Main Ballast Tank blows.
14. Installed new improved cooling coils in main air conditioning system.
15. Installed new trim pump.
16. Installed cross connection between No. 1 air bank and 600# blow manifold.
17. Installed new T-type gaskets on all hatches and torpedo tube outer doors.

GUNNERY

1. Removed 4"/50 gun forward and installed 5"/25 gun aft.
2. Installed 40mm on forward bridge platform.
3. Installed twin 20mm on after bridge platform.
4. Installed 3" signal ejector in After Torpedo Room.
5. Installed Mk. 9 TBT forward and Mk. 8 TBT aft on bridge.
6. Installed one Mk. 7, Mod. 1, DIT in Conning Tower and another in Control Room.
7. Installed topside ammunition stowage to provide ready ammunition for new guns.
8. Installed spindle-type firing valves on all torpedo tubes.
9. Installed range doubling unit in Mk. 3, Mod. 7, TDC.
10. Installed two Ward Leonard torpedo charging panels in Forward Torpedo Room and a Ward Leonard hydrogen burner panel in each torpedo room.
11. Altered gun sponsors so that 5"/25 guns may be mounted forward or aft on main deck and 40mm or 20mm guns may be mounted on forward or after bridge platforms.

Several operational days were allotted for testing of equipment, and readiness for sea date was set as 17 June 1945.

— page 57 —
17 June - 1945
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

It was a pleasure to meet up again with our division commander, Captain Eliot Olsen, in the Bay Area after losing contact with him and our squadron for nearly a year. His able supervision and interest in our behalf were very helpful and much appreciated.

25 June - Moored at Submarine Base, PEARL HARBOR, T.H.

Four days were allotted for voyage repairs and alterations, during which time the following work was accomplished by E & R Department of Submarine Base, P.H.T.H., and the relief crew of SubDiv 103:

1. Antenna system was rearranged to comply with latest design, and a whip antenna was installed above SD tower.
2. Mk. 27 torpedo charging panel was installed in After Torpedo Room.
3. Ship was dry-docked for one day in ARD-5.
4. Ship was degaussed, fumigated, and given a new camouflage.

Eight days and two nights were allotted for training, during which time a total of eight torpedoes were fired. Battle surface drills were conducted and all guns were fired. Three days of special training with the QIA equipment, under the supervision of Conard. W. E. Skjefalf, were allotted. This training was invaluable, and the test equipment at PEARL was much superior to that found later at QIA. Two days were allotted for loading, and the readiness for sea date was set at 14 July 1945.

— page 58 —
14-27 July
Subject: U.S.S. FARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

(B) NARRATIVE.
Officers and Chief Petty Officers on Board
No. War Patrols
Including FARGO 8th

Lt. Comdr. David B. BELL, USNR 11
Lieut. Edward D. HOGG, (DE), USNR 10
Lieut. Roland R. REICHIE, (D), USNR 1
Lt. (jg) George E. McWHITE, (E)L, USNR 5
Lt. (jg) Robert O. ROWE, (DE), USNR 7
Lt. (jg) Creighton W. COOK, USN 6
Lt. (jg) William R. HECKMAN, (E)L-T, USNR 2
Lt. (jg) Gerald C. PHILLIPS, (D)L, USNR 2
Ensign Hubert B. BROM, (D)L, USNR 2

HEWETT, Leslie Cicero, 624, 09 19, CY(AA)(T), USNR 6
NORRIS, Troy Bernard, 630 15 43, CPhM(AA)(T), USNR 4
PAWELCZAK, John (n), 337 06 31, C M(T), USNR 13
SMITH, Averell Dickson, 223 22 81, CMoMM(T), USNR 8
THOMAS, William "D", 336 96 09, CMoMM(T), USN 8
WILLIAMS, Robert Paul, 201 96 41, CMoMM(AA)(T), USN 8

14-27 July
Enroute GUAM from PEARL HARBOR in accordance with ConsSubsPacAd
Secret Operation Order 143-A-45 of 14 July 1945, conducting training dives, practice approaches, and emergency drills.

22 July
2300(M) - Transmitted FARGO Serial 1.

ALL TIMES INDICATED BELOW ARE ZONE TIME -10(K) UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED.

— page 59 —
25 July
0940 - Sighted ALAMAGAN ISLAND bearing 265° T, range 45 miles.
2010 - Commenced conducting search for downed aviators at request of friendly aircraft in vicinity of 16°-30' N, 145°-00' E. Sighted several boxes and oil drums in the vicinity, but saw no signs of a downed plane. Aircraft made his sighting after dark, and it is believed he mistook some of the numerous objects in the water for downed flyers.
2230 - Transmitted PARGO Serial 2.
26 July
0615 - Secured from search for downed aviators.
0830 - Received CTG 17.7 Serial 252210 giving new time of rendezvous.
1529 - Exchanged recognition signals with friendly CVE and DD.
27 July
0440 - Made rendezvous with U.S.S. SPRINGER and escort and proceeded to GUAM.
0852 - Moored starboard side to U.S.S. HOLLAND in APRA HARBOR, GUAM.
28 July - Conducted special training with Commander Sieglaff on board.
29 July - Conducted special training with Vice-Admiral C. A. Lockwood, Jr., on board.
30 July - Topped off with fuel, stores, and water. Installed speed halving device on TDC.
1700 - Underway in accordance with ComSubsPac Secret Operation Order 176-45 of 28 July 1945 in company with U.S.S. REDFIN.
31 July
0832 - Submerged to conduct practice approach with REDFIN as target.
0940 - Surfaced.
1200 - Position: Lat. 16°-40' N, Long. 144°-23' E.

— page 60 —
2000 to - Conducted radar tracking drill with REDFIN.
2100

1 Aug.
0922 - Submerged to conduct practice approach.
0957 - Surfaced.
1200 - Position: Lat. 19°-52' N, Long. 141°-00' E.
1430 - U.S.S. REDFIN departed enroute SAIPAN.

2 Aug.
0545 - Submerged for trim dive.
0556 - Surfaced.
1200 - Position: Lat. 24°-30' N, Long. 139°-33' E.

3 Aug.
1200 - Position: Lat. 29°-09' N, Long. 138°-00' E.
1423 - Submerged for trim dive.
1428 - Surfaced.
1500 - Transmitted PARGO Serial 3.

4 Aug.
1200 - Position: Lat. 29°-11' N, Long. 132°-21' E.
1555 - Submerged for trim dive.
1609 - Surfaced.
1935 - Picked up YAKU SHIMA on radar bearing 342° T, range 68 miles.

5 Aug.
1200 - Position: Lat. 31°-18' N, Long. 128°-56' E.

— page 61 —
5 Aug. (Cont'd.)
1728 - Sighted type 93 mine and sank it by gunfire.
1835 - Sighted two type 93 mines. Sank one by gunfire but could not sink other one in time available.
2015 - Sighted type 93 mine and sank it after using it to test QLA.
2045 - Sighted another type 93 floating mine.

6 Aug.
0500 - Submerged for special mission (See PARGO Secret Serial 005, Special Transit Report).
2130 - Surfaced.

7 Aug.
0220 - Pip on radar bearing 060° T, range 10,350 yards; maneuvered to avoid (Ship Contact #1).
0832 - Sighted UTSURYO TO bearing 000° T, range 45 miles.
1028 - Aircraft on SD at 7 miles; submerged.
1140 - Surfaced.
1200 - Position: Lat. 37°-15' N, Long. 131°-18' E.
2100 - Transmitted PARGO Serial 4.

8 Aug.
0420 - Entered assigned Patrol Area at Long. 131°-56' E.
1045 - Aircraft on SD, range 10 miles. Sighted plane (fighter) coming toward us and dived.
1147 - Surfaced.
1200 - Position: Lat. 41°-26' N, Long. 131°-04' E.
1230 - Sighted aircraft bearing 030° T, SD range 14 miles; plane opened out to northeast.

— page 62 —
1240 - Sighted smoke bearing 040° T; commenced tracking and working for position ahead at four-engine speed (Ship Contact #2).

: 1300 - Now had smoke of several ships and found convoy to be running west at slow speed. The sea was calm, sky overcast, and atmosphere very hazy, making it difficult to identify any of the ships or to tell exactly how many ships were in the convoy. Seaplane was circling convoy at 3-5 mls, so the SJ was not used.

: 1355 - Had worked to a position bearing 290° T from convoy and were dimly in front of them, using a base course of 290° T, as determined by tracking; so submerged and began closing for attack. The leading ships were well hull up at an estimated range of 16,000 yards. Seaplane was not seen at this time nor at any later time.

: 1410 - Went to battle stations submerged.

: 1430 - Could now make out four freighters and two escorts. The ships were in two columns of two each with an escort on each flank. The leading ship in the starboard column was much larger than any of the other ships and estimated at 450 foot length, 6000 tons; so decided to make her the main target. Angle on the bow was about 20° starboard, and we were in good position. Convoy was zig zagging between 250° T and 310° T, using about 8 minute legs.

: 1445 - Made ready all tubes and set depth 6 feet. The ships were close together. Range between ships in column was estimated at 700 yards and between columns was about 500 yards. Escorts were about 1000 yards on each beam of the convoy.

: 1449 - As convoy steadied on course 258° T, the two ships in the far column were overlapping the main target, which had a 60° starboard angle on the bow, forming an excellent target (see sketch No. 1); so decided to fire 6 torpedoes using the near ship as the point of aim and using a spread covering 900 feet at the target. The starboard escort had a zero angle on the bow but did not seem alerted.

: 1453:51 - Fired six torpedoes as planned, using a 750° starboard track, 7 knots, and a 1.4° divergent spread from forward aft. Torpedo run to near ship was 2300 yards. The three ships were still overlapping (see sketch No. 2). The starboard escort still had a zero angle on the bow and was about 1500 yards away. It would be over two minutes before torpedoes would hit, at which time

— page 63 —
1456:20 - Heard first torpedo hit followed by five more loud, distinct, torpedo hits. The time from first firing to first hit was 2 minutes, 29 seconds. This time checks very closely with the range taken on the last setup, using a stack height of 75 feet. It is believed that #1 torpedo hit ship "C", #2, #3, and #4 hit ship "A", and #5 and #6 hit ship "B".

1457 - Heavy explosions, rending, hissing, and general breaking up noises were heard throughout the boat and by JP sound from 320° to 220° relative. These noises persisted as we crossed under and close ahead of convoy in attempt to get a look from the other side. It is believed that the main target sank at this time with 3 hits in her.

1459 - Three depth charges, not too close. We were at 250 feet and had a 30° negative gradient. We were well out to sea, so evaded to southward attempting to keep escorts astern.

1503 - Heard loud pinging, screws, and scattered depth charges, but none were close. Many small charges which we called "Grenades" were heard during this time; they were not as loud as our hand grenades but similar to them. Decided against taking that look. One escort passed directly overhead, pinging on short scale, but did not drop.

1543 - Heavy depth charge barrage; not close.

1656 - Pinging was now distant, and the last of 50 depth charges had been dropped an hour ago; so came up for a look --- smoke on bearing of attack; otherwise all clear.

1700 - Commenced reload forward and check of torpedoes aft.

1706 - A closer look at the smoke disclosed one freighter smoking, another freighter down by the stern, and one escort, all at the scene of the attack, which now bore 000° T.

1825 - Could now see one freighter on an even keel with smoke from her stack only, one escort, and one unidentified object that looked like the bow of a half-sunken ship. True bearing had not changed.

1900-2100 - Took half-hourly looks. After 1930 only one ship and one escort visible.

— page 65 —
2100 - Could still make out one escort and one freighter, intermittently smoking and very low in the water, bearing 000° T, range about 12,000 yards.

: 2130 - Surfaced and headed for target group at two-engine speed, charging on two; but could find nothing. The night was dark now, but the stars were out overhead. Searched vicinity where target group had been last seen, and at 2400 turned up assumed convoy track of 290° T to try to overhaul any cripples. It is not understood how a cripple which had remained on the same true bearing from 1700 to 2100 could suddenly get underway at the end of twilight and be beyond radar range less than one hour later with us trying to close him. Originally, before the attack, the ships were making only 7 knots. It is possible that both of these cripples sank and the escort shoved off after taking off the crews, but it is felt quite probable that the ship which had been down by the stern did sink between 1825 and 1930.

: 9 Aug.

: 0150 - Sighted definite aircraft flare bearing 240° T about 6 miles away.

: 0155 - Submerged when SD range on aircraft suddenly showed 4.5 miles; changed course to 060° T.

: 0220 - Three explosions, believed to be aircraft bombs.

: 0235 - Three more explosions, all distant.

: 0238 - Aircraft on SD at 7, 10, and 15 miles -- 150 feet to think this over. It is strange that the Japs would have 3 aircraft out now when they didn't bother us from 2150 to 0200.

: 0243 - Three more distant explosions.

: 0251 - Two more distant explosions.

: 0300 - One aircraft on SD at 4 miles. At this point, decided that if there was a cripple left from our attack, it was too late to get him now; so continued to open out to the northeastward.

: 0335 - Sighted 2 aircraft flying low with landing lights on.

: 0348 - One distant explosion.

— page 66 —
9 Aug. (Cont'd.)
0354 - Two distant explosions.
0418 - All clear on SD and APR; so surfaced to clear area at 3-engine speed, charging on 1 engine.
0705 - Sighted aircraft 280° T, range 10 miles; submerged. Just before diving heard U.S. broadcast saying that Russia had entered war against Japan. This was mighty good news, but 75 miles from VLADIVOSTOK was a hell of a place to hear it!
0840 - Surfaced to get out from under the Russians.
0915 - Sighted bomber type aircraft bearing 250° T heading toward; submerged.
1018 - Surfaced.
1110 - Sighted another bomber bearing 320° T, range 15 miles; he did not close, so we did not dive.
1130 - Received official word that Russia was once again our ally and assigning us a new operating area.
1200 - Position: Lat. 41°-27' N, Long. 132°-17' E.
1325 - Two single-engine planes bearing 040° T, range 10 miles; submerged.
1352 - Two distant explosions.
1429 - Surfaced. This air coverage was beginning to feel like the old days out here.
1533 - SD contact, 12 miles.
1535 - Sighted single-engine plane (Val?) bearing 130° T; submerged. Flooded #2 Main Engine on this dive, but fortunately engine had stopped rolling before water reached it and no damage was done. Remained submerged to check the engine, and at -
1719 - Surfaced.
1955 - Sighted single-engine plane 'bearing 040° T, not on SD; submerged.
2037 - Surfaced.

— page 67 —
10 Aug.

0500 - Entered newly assigned area at Lat. 40° -09' E.

1200 - Position: Lat. 40°-30' N, Long. 137°-30' E.

2330 - Transmitted PARGO Serial No. 5.

2335 - Flip on radar bearing 358° T, range 17,500 yards (Ship Contact #3). Shortly thereafter several pips were distinguishable. Turned to run with convoy and commenced tracking. Found target group to be making about 8 knots and heading southwest.

11 Aug.

0042 - Target group was on course 180° T, making 8 knots. Flight ships could be seen on the PPI screen. We were now in a good position to commence closing for attack; but it was difficult to determine which ships were escorts and which were good targets, for the formation was somewhat crowded together and constantly changing. Decided to continue tracking until a good target could be selected and an opening found.

0105 - For no apparent reason, the target group reversed course and headed north. They may have detected us, but no escorts were dispatched to heckle us. This maneuver left us well astern on the starboard side, so commenced running at 4-engine speed up starboard side of convoy to again gain position for attack.

0117 - Went to battle stations submerged.

0155 - Had been tracking convoy on a course of 355° T for past 40 minutes and had gained a position about 7000 yards bearing 095° T from center of group. On the starboard quarter we could see what appeared to be a freighter with an escort on his starboard bow and one on his port quarter. PPI screen verified this and showed the freighter to be very close to another ship on his port beam. The convoy consisted of 4 small ships in 2 columns of 2 each and 4 escorts milling around. Decided to come in behind the escort on the starboard bow and fire at the freighter with a large starboard track. Made ready all tubes and set depth six feet.

0205 - Had now worked in behind escort that was on target's starboard bow. He was about 2300 yards away and could be seen very clearly; he must have thought we were one of the escorts in this mad convoy. Range to target was 3000 yards and he was on course 010° T, angle on the bow 110° starboard. Tould now see other freighter that was

— page 68 —
11 Aug. (Cont'd.)

visible on PPI about 200 yards bearing 200° relative from original target; both were MIM, 3-island, small, coal-burning freighters, estimated length 300 feet.

0206:55 - Fired four torpedoes at near leading freighter, torpedo run 2700 yards, 125° starboard track, using a spread to give 1/40% coverage.
0207:17
0207:27

0207:57 - Shifted targets and fired two torpedoes at trailing freighter with a torpedo run 2000 yards, 110° starboard track, and using a 1° divergent spread.

0209:46 - Two explosions were heard and felt and two large columns of smoke arose from the target group, completely obscuring one of the targets and rising in a great column from the other one. Hauled clear to southwest to await developments and make a reload as the escort nearest us turned back toward convoy.

0215 - First of a string of nine depth charges.

0218:30 - Radar reported that one pip (the first target) in the target group had faded from screen. Range to target group at this time was 6000 yards. Further tracking showed only 7 ships remaining in the convoy. Scratched off one freighter!

0236 - Completed reloading 4 remaining torpedoes forward while the target group was still milling around in the vicinity of the attack. Plot showed that they had moved 2000 yards in 30 minutes with the escorts circling close around the convoy.

0325 - Target group was now moving again on course 350° T, making 8 knots; so we started to cross astern and come in for another attack on starboard quarter of the convoy, which seemed to be still open. As we passed over the spot where last attack was made a large oil slick was sighted; estimated this slick to be about 800 yards in diameter. This slick, along with the fact that seven remaining ships were apparently intact, indicates that one ship sank with its prop reliably, and that the other six had been hit by it and had been destroyed. The 2-torpedo salvo fired at the six ships was a hurried set-up, because by that time the first ship was running low with blowing her whistle and the escort nearest us had cleared course 90° toward. The second ship may have been hit but is not claimed, because one ship definitely sank and the other got underway at 8 knots, apparently undamaged.

— page 69 —
11 Aug. (Cont'd.)

0350 - Were now in position 5000 yards on the starboard beam of the convoy, and it looked like we would be able to get in another attack on a freighter on the: starboard quarter of the convoy.

0358 - Two escorts had now drifted back to cover the starboard side of the target. We decided to wait for a better opportunity.

0359 - Suddenly there was a melee of ships where our convoy had been and the whole group zigged east, putting us out ahead.

0404 - Target group zigged to 210° T, leaving us way behind. It was now beginning to get light, so we were forced to open the range to trail without being sighted.

0451 - Sun was rising behind us and we could see convoy clearly at 11,000 yards bearing 210° T. They were milling around again, so decided to dive and attempt to close submerged in hope that they were again reversing course to northward.

0540 - Had not been able to see convoy since diving, even though we had been closing their position at 2/3 speed for almost an hour and could still hear their pinging; so decided to give up the chase and head for our newly assigned patrol and lifeguard station.

1200 - Position: Lat. 41°-27' N, Long. 138°-39' E.

1908 - Surfaced.

12 Aug.

0700 - Commenced patrolling on surface on assigned lifeguard station.

1200 - Position: Lat. 43°-37' N, Long. 139°-44' E.

13 Aug.

1041 - Sighted unidentified aircraft bearing 250° T, range 8 miles; submerged.

1129 - Surfaced.

1200 - Position: Lat. 43°-48' N, Long. 140°-35' E.

1540 - Sighted aircraft bearing 060° T, range 11 miles, opening out to northeast.

— page 70 —
14 Aug.

0335 - Picked up four pips on radar bearing 130° T, 16,000 yards (Ship Contact #4). Commenced tracking.

0423 - Found targets were running very close to coast on course 070° T, making 8 knots. It was now getting light and would be impossible to make an end around so close to coast in daylight; so decided to give up chase, close coast, and wait for another convoy to come by.

0500 - Submerged for daylight patrol in close to coast off MOTSUITA SAKI LIGHT.

0559 - Sighted small picket boat bearing 180° T, range 4000 yards (Ship Contact #5). Maneuvered to avoid.

0955 - Sighted two small ships, apparently small freighters, bearing 059° T, range 8000 yards (Ship Contact #6). Changed course to close for attack and commenced tracking.

0956 - Went to battle stations submerged.

1014 - Targets looked like two small, unescorted freighters and were making about 6 knots. Made ready all tubes and set depth six feet. Range was now 5000 yards and angle on bow was 20° starboard.

1052 - Identified targets as two small sea trucks and decided to break off attack and wait for better targets.

1200 - Position: Lat. 42°-41' N, Long. 139°-47' E.

1845 - Sighted sea truck bearing 148° T and commenced closing for a better look (Ship Contact #7).

2009 - Found that we could not close range sufficiently to make attack, so broke off. Target was hugging coast and running north at 7 knots. Identified target as 850 ton sea truck, type SBS.

2100 - Surfaced and sighted smoke of our target bearing 030° T. Decided to make an end around and come in for a submerged attack at close range, using the ST radar. Did not have target on radar.

2220 - Had been running at best speed while charging batteries when target was picked up on radar bearing 111° T, range 22,600 yards (Same ship as Ship Contact #7). Continued maneuvering for a position ahead. Target was now running about 5000 yards off the

— page 71 —
14 Aug. (Cont'd.)

coast on course 060° T and making 7 knots. He was in company with two smaller sea trucks that had not been visible earlier in the afternoon. The target group was running parallel to coast line in vicinity of BINKKI MISAKI LIGHT.

2359 - Had just gained a favorable position 6000 yards ahead of convoy when radar picked up several small, unidentified objects bearing 100° T, range 4000 yards. White water could be seen from bridge on this same bearing. Tracking showed these objects to be stationary. Indication was that we had run across an uncharted reef. Swung left to avoid.

2350 - Went to battle stations submerged.

15 Aug.

0008 - Had now regained our position ahead of convoy, so submerged and commenced closing to attack this rather small target from close range. Target was now leading ship and ships were in column about 500 yards apart. They had been running on 050° T for past hour and were checking good on 8½ knots.

0038 - Made ready tubes 8 and 9, set depth 6 feet. Range to target was now 2700 yards. Planned to fire two stern tubes with torpedo run from 500 to 1000 yards.

0039 - JP had been reporting reef noises ahead and on starboard side, so decided to take a fathometer reading to check. Chart showed 250 fathoms at our estimated position. Fathometer showed three fathoms and shoal warning sounded on Corning Tower indicator. Put rudder hard left to avoid grounding.

0042 - Target had been checking good on course 052° T at 8½ knots, so decided to fire in spite of the long range shot we were forced to take because of the reef. We were using periscope bearings and ST ranges.

0043:01 - Fired two stern tubes with torpedo run 2500 yards, 800 port 0043:11 track, and small left gyros. Torpedoes were spread by periscope, one a little inside of his bow and the other a little inside his stern. Both torpedoes missed. Further tracking showed that just after we fired target zigged left 800 to run parallel to the next leg of coast which ran 330° T. He was about 2 miles from where we figured he would make his turn, so luck was with him this time.

— page 72 —
15 Aug. (Cont'd.)

0047 - Target had steadied on new course of 330° T and did not seem the least bit alerted. His new course would give us a more favorable shot with a run of less than 2000 yards, so decided to try one more torpedo. Made ready No. 10 tube; set depth 2 feet.

0053:00 - Fired at MOT with torpedo run 1700 yards, small left gyro, and 80° port track.

0054 - ST radar operator reported that torpedo had broached 900 yards from us, and JP sound reported torpedo to be surging. To top this off, it was discovered that after gyro regulator had been turned to "off" position after firing first two torpedoes and had been overlooked in firing this last stern tube. Decided to give up sea truck hunting, especially this joker whose luck was so good, and wait for something bigger to come by.

0058 - Surfaced and headed for a position to dive and go into coast off MOTSUTA SAKI LIGHT.

0450 - Submerged for daylight patrol and commenced closing coast.

0540 - Heard pinging bearing 059° T (Ship Contact #8). Commenced closing to identify.

0616 - Identified targets as two small sea trucks, type SCS, and one small escort. Decided to let them go by and wait for a better target.

0805 - Sighted smoke of two ships bearing 027° T and 029° T, range 16,000 yards (Ship Contact #9). Commenced closing to identify. Atmosphere was clear, and sea was rippled but no white caps.

0855 - Identified ships as three small freighters and 2 PC escorts. They were running parallel to and about 1000 yards from the coast in a southerly direction, making 8 knots. Fortunately, the 100 fathom curve was only 4000 yards from the coast. Went to battle stations submerged.

0910 - The three freighters were in column about 500 yards apart with one escort 3000 yards abeam and to seaward of second freighter, and the second escort aft of the column of freighters. Range to leading freighter was 4000 yards. Made ready all tubes; set depth 6 feet.

— page 73 —
15 Aug. (Cont'd.)

0917 - Range to leading freighter was now 2400 yards. lie was checking good on course 160° T and making 8 knots. His angle on bow was 50° starboard, and escort was passing astern and 1500 yards to seaward of us. Decided to fire four at leading freighter, which was a small AK, MFM 2000 tons, and to fire the stern tubes at the last ship in column as we turned away from the coast.

0918:43 - Fired four torpedoes at leading freighter, torpedo run 1500 to 1300 yards, 90° starboard track, 15° divergent spread.

0919:02
0919:13

0920:13 - Heard two light explosions close together which checked for time of torpedo run, but they were not nearly as loud as one would expect a torpedo explosion to sound at this range.

0920:18 - Took a quick periscope look and saw the large bow of a green colored ship bearing down on us at about 500-700 yards with a zero angle on the bow. This was not the target, for target was painted grey with a rusty water line. The green ship had been the second ship in column. Immediately went to 150 feet without waiting to look at target; this was a mistake, and I should have swept on around for the target, but at that moment the target became the least important in my thoughts. Rigged ship for depth charge and silent running and commenced evasion. Had a nice 20° gradient starting at 80 feet.

0925:50 - Loud explosion, either depth charge or torpedo hitting beach.

0926:50 - Another loud explosion, depth charge or torpedo hitting beach.

0929:38 - Depth charge. Started to ease down to 250 feet when DCDI indicated astern, port, and below.

0930:17 - Depth charge. Heard pinging and screws of two escorts for next hour, but no more charges were dropped.

0938 - Struck bottom lightly at 224 feet and came back up to 200 feet until we could get into deeper water.

1028 - Periscope depth. Close escort was about 5000 yards bearing 225° T; nothing else was in sight. Got a fix, went deep again, and continued to open out to the northwest. Fix showed us to be 5000 yards off land and we had been working to the northwest for about an hour. Do not know why torpedoes did not hit rocky, steep beach and explode after about three minutes run.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 74 —
15 Aug. (Cont'd.)
1125 - All clear by periscope except for land.
1200 - Position: Lat. 42°-40' N, Long. 139°-43' E.
1415 - Surfaced and heard unofficial news on RBO that war was over. The crowds they were describing in the big cities seemed convinced; so we were after listening to them for almost an hour.
1457 - Submerged to offer prayers for our safe deliverance through this terrible war and for our comrades who are missing.
1618 - Surfaced.
2119 - Received official orders that hostilities had ceased and to cease all attacks.
2316 - Transmitted PARGO Serial 6.
16 Aug.
1200 - Position: Lat. 43°-23' N, Long. 139°-53' E.
2137 - Converted No. 4 Fuel Ballast Tank from fuel tank to ballast tank.
17 Aug.
0548 - Submerged for trim dive.
0608 - Surfaced.
1200 - Position: Lat. 44°-00' N, Long. 139°-26' E.
2125 - Transmitted PARGO Serial 7.
18 Aug.
1200 - Position: Lat. 45°-04' N, Long. 140°-19' E.
19 Aug.
1200 - Position: Lat. 42°-45' N, Long. 137°-58' E.
20 Aug.
0511 - Submerged for daylight patrol near coast off MOTSUTA SAKI LIGHT.

— page 75 —
20 Aug. (Cont'd.)
: 0608 - Heard pinging on QB bearing 090° T, but could see nothing.
: 0920 - Sighted sea truck bearing 144° T, range 7000 yards (Ship Contact #10). Avoided.
: 1030 - Sighted sea truck bearing 090° T, range 6000 yards (Ship Contact #11). Avoided.
: 1200 - Position: Lat. 42°-32' N, Long. 139°-48' E.
: 1217 - Sighted sea truck bearing 230° T, range 7000 yards (Ship Contact #12). Avoided.
: 1745 - Surfaced.

21 Aug.
: 1200 - Position: Lat. 44°-31' N, Long. 139°-58' E.

22 Aug.
: 1200 - Position: Lat. 44°-05' N, Long. 139°-42' E.
: 1300 - Aircraft on SD at 14 miles; did not close.
: 1521 - Aircraft on SD at 5 miles; submerged. Saw plane through periscope but could not identify.
: 1700 - Surfaced.
: 1715 - Aircraft on SD, mining in fast; submerged.
: 1815 - Surfaced.

23 Aug.
: 0537 - Submerged for daylight patrol off MOTSUITA SAKI LIGHT.
: 1200 - Position: Lat. 42°-40' N, Long. 139°-41' E.
: 1358 - Sighted small MFM freighter bearing 140° T, range 16,000 yards (Ship Contact #13). Commenced closing to take pictures.
: 1405 - Took pictures of ship contact #13.
: 1425

— page 76 —
23 Aug. (Cont'd.)

1530 - Sighted small MFM freighter bearing 171° T (Ship Contact #14). Commenced closing to take pictures.

1630- - Took pictures of ship contact #14.

1645

1848 - Surfaced.

24 Aug.

1200 - Position: Lat. 42°-22' N, Long. 138°-18' E.

25 Aug.

1200 - Position: Lat. 43°-00' N, Long. 137°-41' E.

26 Aug.

0100 - Transmitted PARGO Serial 8.

1200 - Position: Lat. 42°-42' N, Long. 138°-34' E.

2100 - Received ComSubsPac Serial 63, changing our area to Area 15A. Set course to head for new area.

27 Aug.

1200 - Position: Lat. 40°-52' N, Long. 135°-47' E.

2000 - Entered Area 15A at 40° N, 135° E.

28 Aug.

1200 - Position: Lat. 38°-27' N, Long. 135°-25' E.

2352 - Transmitted PARGO Serial 9.

29 Aug.

0830 - Submerged for trim dive.

0845 - Surfaced.

1200 - Position: Lat. 37°-06' N, Long. 134°-04' E.

— page 77 —
29 Aug. (Cont'd.)
1238 - Submerged.
1250 - Surfaced.
1713 - Submerged.
1720 - Surfaced.
1810 - Sighted floating type 93 mine.
1818 - Exploded mine by gunfire.

30 Aug.
0830 - Sent request for rendezvous to U.S.S. STICKLEBACK on wolf pack frequency.
1200 - Position: Lat. 38°-06' N, Long. 133°-44' E.
1315 - Sighted floating type 93 mine.
1319 - Exploded mine by gunfire.
1420 - Exchanged recognition signals via SJ radar with STICKLEBACK.
1430 - Sighted STICKLEBACK bearing 315° T and commenced closing.
1453 - Exchanged movies and news with STICKLEBACK. Transfer was made by rubber boat.
1634 - Parted company with STICKLEBACK and headed for center of our area.

31 Aug.
1200 - Position: Lat. 36°-11' N, Long. 134°-42' E.

1 Sept.
0601 - Submerged for 6 hour battery discharge.
1200 - Position: Lat. 36°-33' N, Long. 134°-30' E.
1235 - Completed test discharge and surfaced.

— page 78 —
1. Sept. (Cont'd.)
: 1400 - Sighted two aircraft bearing 180° T. Aircraft did not close.
: 1556 - Received ComSubsPac Serial 77.
: 1601 - Sighted friendly aircraft (PB2Y) and exchanged recognition signals.
: 2252 - Transmitted PARGO Serial 10.
: 2253 - Sent acknowledgement of TORSK's request for rendezvous.

2. Sept.
: 1100 - Sighted friendly aircraft (FEM) bearing 165° T. Exchanged recognition signals.
: 1200 - Position: Lat. 35°-38' N, Long. 132°-46' E.
: 1437 - Sighted floating type 93 mine.
: 1457 - Exploded mine with B.A.R. fire.
: 1848 - Sighted U.S.S. TORSK, exchanged recognition signals, and proceeded toward TSUSHIMA STRAITS.

3. Sept.
: 0630 - Sighted U.S.S. STICKLEBACK bearing 100° T and exchanged recognition signals.
: 0725 - Sighted small unidentified ship bearing 270° T.
: 0930 - Commenced transit of TSUSHIMA STRAITS following TORSK.
: 1130 - Completed uneventful transit.
: 1200 - Position: Lat. 34°-22' N, Long. 128°-21' E.

4. Sept.
: 1200 - Position: Lat. 29°-50' N, Long. 125°-06' E.

5. Sept. - Sighted numerous friendly aircraft throughout the day.
: 1200 - Position: Lat. 25°-17' N, Long. 126°-05' E.

— page 79 —
1800, - Exchanged movies with TORSK via rubber boat.

6 Sept.
1200 - Position: Lat. 19°-50' N, Long. 129°-07' E.

7 Sept.
0957 - Position: Lat. 17°-12' N, Long. 134°-34' E.

8 Sept.
0921 - Submerged for trim dive.

0927 - Surfaced.

1200 - Position: Lat. 14°-42' N, Long. 139°-41' E.

9 Sept.
0600 - Made rendezvous with escort and proceeded to AFRA HARBOR, GUAM.

— page 82 —
1. SUBJECT: U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA:
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1A PATROL NO. 8
Time 1457(K) Date 8 Aug. 1945 14-23 N Long. 131-25 E

Target Data -- Damage Inflighted
Description Target was an ADA MARU Class freighter (ONI 208J, re- vised, p. 219)(EC). He was the leading ship in the starboard column of a convoy consisting of four freight- sght during daylight. Atmosphere was hazy, visibility 18,000 yards.

Ship(s) Sunk One medium AK, ADA MARU Class (ONI 208J, revised, p.219) (EC) -- 5200 tons.

Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk

Damage Determined Three timed hits and terrific breaking up noises while passing in front and under convoy. These noises per- sisted on the correct true bearing for 45 minutes, but what noises belonged to what ship was not known. Ship was not seen two hours later when two cripples and one escort of same convoy were plainly in sight.

Target Draft 25' Course 2580 T Speed 7 Range 2500 (at firing)

Own Ship Data
Speed 3 Course 1600 T Depth 65' Angle 15° Down (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data
Type Attack Tracked ships on surface in heavy haze from 1230 to 1355 to gain position ahead and detennine their approx- imate base course. Submerged with ships hull up in haze, range about 16,000 yards. Started seeing them clearly about 8000 yards through periscope. Fired 6 torpedoes.when three overlapped, total spread coverage 900 feet, using bridge of nearest middle ship as MOT, gyros 70 left, torpedo run to nearest ship 2300 yards.

— page 83 —
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

:  U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1B&C - PATROL NO. 8

:  Time 1457(K) - Date 8 Aug. 1945 - Lat. 41°-23' N - Long. 131°-25' E

Target Data -- Damage Inflicted

Description: Targets were small AK's (EU) in same convoy as described in Attack 1A. They were the two ships composing the port column of convoy.

Ship(s) Sunk: 1 AK, small (EU) -- 2000 tons (B)

Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk: 1 AK, small (EU) -- 2000 tons (C)

Damage Determined by: (1) Two timed hits on target (B), which was showing 1/3 of her length astern of main target, and one timed hit in target (C), whose bow was protruding in front of main target. These two ships were in far column of convoy (See sketch No. 2 in narrative).

(2) A series of explosions and breaking up noises on true bearing of targets for 45 minutes after attack.

(3) Sighted two cripples with one escort on true bearing of attack at 1648 (2 hours after attack). One cripple was definitely down by the stern, the other appeared to be on an even keel, but both were stopped. Commented closing cripples, who were tracked at speed zero, no change of true bearing, angles on the bow varying from 90° port to 90° starboard with escort circling them. This continued until 1930 when one ship, one escort, and one unidentified object were seen, object believed to be bow of ship which had been down by the stern. From 1930 to 2100 could see only one ship and 1 escort, both still on same true bearing as at 1700.

(4) At 2100 surfaced and searched area until 0200 without regaining contact.

(B) 10' (B) 258° T (B) 7 (B) 2800

Target Draif (C) 10' Course (C) 255° T Speed (C) 7 Range (C) 3000 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed 3 Course 160° T Depth 65° Angle 10° Down (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack Same as Attack 1A.

— page 84 —
1. U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

Torpedo Attack No. 1

Tubes Fired: #6 #5 #4 #3 #2 #1
Track Angle: 75° S 75° S 75° S 74° S 73° S 71° S
Gyro Angle: 7° L 7° L 6° L 6° L 7° L 9° L
Depth Set: 6' 6' 6' 6' 6' 6'
Power: High High High High High High
Hit or Miss: Hit Hit Hit Hit Hit Hit
Frratic: No No No No No No
Mark Torpedo: 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 100123 100099 100065 100097 101094 101036
Mark Warhead: 8-7 8-7 8-7 8-7 8-7 8-7
Serial No. 16842 25949 25987 25968 25936 25921
Actuation Set: Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual: Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact
Mark Warhead: 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 7290 6964 7031 6667 7242 7279
Explosive: Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval: 12 Sec. 11 Sec. 10 Sec. 10 Sec. 10 Sec.
Type Spread: 3° R 3° R 3° R 3° L 3° L
Sea Conditions: 1 1 1 1 1 1
Overall Activity: PHTH PHTH PHTH PHTH PHTH
REMARKS: Torpedo base speed: 29.3 knots
Correction for 6' 6' depth set: -1.1 knots
Correction for 6' 6' temp. 85°: -1 knots
Correction for 3' 3' temp. 70°: +1 knots
Speed set in TDC: 28.4 knots

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 85 —
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

:  U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2A - PATROL NO. 8

:  Time 0207(K)  Date 11 Aug. 1945  Lat. 41°17' N  Long. 139°04' E

Target Data -- Damage Inflicted

Description: Target was a small MFM, coal-burning, 3-island freighter, estimated 300 feet length, 2000 tons (EU), which was part of 4-ship, 4-escort convoy picked up by radar on dark, clear night at 17,500 yards.

Ship(s) Sunk: One small AK (EU) -- 2,000 tons.

Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk: None.

Damage Determined by: (1) C.O., and lookouts watching target heard and felt two torpedo hits and saw target suddenly enveloped in heavy black smoke, but no flashes were seen. These explosions were heard and felt below decks. (2) Target disappeared on radar screen at 6000 yards. (3) Convoy tracked for several hours and one ship was definitely missing. (4) While passing through scene of attack sighted circular oil slick 800 yards in diameter.

Target Draft 10' Course 010° T Speed 7.5 Range 2300 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed 11 Course 320° T Depth Surface Angle 0° (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Night surface radar attack from starboard quarter of target. Used TBT bearings to fire 4 bow tubes, using target length 300 feet and 140% coverage, depth set 6 feet.

- 30 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 86 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject:  U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2B PATROL NO. 8

Time 0208(K) Date 11 Aug. 1945 Lat. 41°-17' N Long. 139°-04' E

Target Data -- Damage Inflicted

Description Small, unidentified AK in same convoy as target in Attack No. 2A. She was on port quarter and close to the target of Attack 2A.

Ship(s) Sunk None.

Ship(s) Damaged None.
cr Probably Sunk

Damage Determined by

Target Draft 15' Course 015° T Speed 7.5 Range 2000 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed 12 Course 319° T Depth Surface Angle Surface (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack Same as Attack 2A except that only two bow tubes were fired with a one degree divergent spread.

- 31 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 87 —
1. Tubes Fired
: 2. Track Angle
: 3. Gyro Angle
: 4. Depth Set
: 5. Power
: 6. Hit or Miss
: 7. Erratic
: 8. Mark Torpedo
: 9. Serial No.
: 10. Mark Exploder
: 11. Serial No.
: 12. Actuation Set
: 13. Actuation Actual
: 14. Mark Warhead
: 15. Serial No.
: 16. Explosive
: 17. Firing Interval
: 18. Type Spread
: 19. Sea Conditions
: 20. Overhaul Activity
: 21. REMARKS:

Torpedo Base speed: 29.3 knots
Correction for 6' depth set: -1.1 knots
Correction for Elect. Temp. 80°: -0 knots
Correction for SW Temp. 70°: +1 knots
Speed set in TDC: 28.3 knots

Torpedo No. 57701 breached on firing, subsequently porpoised twice, and then appeared to settle down on H S & N run.

— page 91 —
U.S.S. PARGO (SS-264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

Torpedo Attack No. 3B

Tubes Fired: #10
Track Angle: 95° P
Gyro Angle: 40° L
Depth Set: 21'
Power: High
Hit or Miss: Miss B
Erratic: No
Mark Torpedo: 18-2
Serial No.: 101248
Mark Exploder: 8-7
Serial No.: 16910
Actuation Set: Contact
Actuation Actual: None
Mark Warhead: 18-2
Serial No.: 7285
Explosive: Torpex
Firing Interval: -
Type Spread: MOT
Sea Conditions: 1
Overall Activity: PHTH
Remarks:
Torpedo base speed: 29.3 knots
Correction for 2' depth set: -2.0 knots
Correction for Elect.Temp.800: 0 knots
Correction for SW Temp. 700: +1 knots
Speed set in TDC: 27.4 knots

This torpedo broached 925 yards from ship (radar contact) but tracked out all right on sound gear.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 92 —
0918(K) Date: 15 Aug. 1945 | Lat.: 42°-31' N Long.: 139°-49' E

Target Data -- Damage Inflicted

Description: Target, a small, MFM AK (2000 tons), was leading ship in a convoy consisting of three freighters in column and two PC escorts. They were contacted by periscope on a clear day.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk: None.

Damage Determined by: Two light explosions were heard while raising the periscope at correct time to see torpedoes hit. These explosions were characterized by a sharp crack followed by a prolonged venting sound, but they did not have the force or noise of a good torpedo hit. The target was not seen on the periscope look, because the periscope officer was distracted by a freighter trying to ram the periscope.

Target Draft: 10' Course: 160° T Speed: 8 Range: 2200 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed: 3 Course: 070° T Depth: 60° Angle: 1/2° Dive (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Daylight submerged attack with four bow tubes, using periscope ranges and bearings. Fired with a 90° starboard track with a torpedo run of 1500 to 1300 yards. Surface was too smooth to attempt ST range check.

— page 93 —
U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.
:  Torpedo Attack No. 4

Tubes Fired: #1 #2 #3 #4
Track Angle: 88° S 89° S 89° S 89° S
Gyro Angle: 20° L 10° L 10° L 10° L
Depth Set: 6' 6' 6' 6'
Power: High High High High
Hit or Miss: Miss Miss Miss
Erratic: No No No No
Mark Torpedo: 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 100983 57315 100779 101059
Mark Exploder: 8-7 8-7 8-7 8-7
Serial No. 16663 11421 26026 16902
Actuation Set: Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - - -
Mark Warhead: 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 7314 7284 6734 7341
Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval: 10 Sec. 10 Sec. 10 Sec. 10 Sec.
Type Spread: 2° R 1° R 1° L 2° L
Sea Conditions: 1 1 1 1
Overall Activity: PHTR PHTR PHTR PHTR

REMARKS: Torpedo base speed 29.3 knots
Correction for 61 depth set -1.1 knots
Correction for Elect. Temp. 80° -0 knots
Correction for SW Temp. 70° +1 knots
Speed set in TDC 28.3 knots

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 94 —
1. U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

(I) MINES.

1. Five floating mines, type 93, were sighted northwest of DANJO GUNTO.

2. Very definite evidence of enemy mining activity was encountered in the vicinity of TUSHIMA STRAITS and is covered in a special report (See PARGO Secret Serial 005 of 9 September 1945).

3. Three floating mines were exploded by B.A.R. fire north and west of OKI RETTO in the JAPAN SEA.

(J) ANTISUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

1. The usual types of escorts and counter-measures were encountered. The "Submarine Supplement to Sailing Directions for Japanese Empire Area" was of great assistance in the JAPAN SEA, where anything can happen as far as gradients are concerned. 20°-30° negative gradients were commonly encountered, and the bathythermograph was used and relied upon for ballasting, estimates of maximum echo-ranging by the escorts, and for best evasion depths. The pictorial presentations of the problem, as illustrated on pages 32-34 of the subject publication are excellent; and I would like to thank the various people who developed this "Supplement" for their efforts.

2. On 15 August, knowing that we would be fenced in between an escort and the beach, six NAC and NAE beacons were broken out and ready aft, and an NAD-6 was prepared for use forward, where we had an empty aft, we went in for the attack. After firing, we were forced deep by the second ship in column attempting to ram while the escort was about 2000 yards to seaward of us. One NAC and one NAE were ejected aft before the safety pin on the next beacon broke and had to be cleared, and the ejector was secured. The NAD-6 was fired while we were going to 150 feet and swinging left. As soon as we were on the desired heading (north), the ship was slow to allow the NAD to leave -- total time between giving the Forward Torpedo Room the word and slowing was about 2 minutes, but this two minutes was well fouled up acoustically by the NAC and NAE, which were working furiously. The NAD was hooked left (westward) to pass close to the escort which we figured would be coming over to investigate the noise while we paralleled the coast and tried to sneak away to the northward. It worked! The escorts took the bait and did not bother us.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

1. Master Gyro: On 24 August, after 2000 hours of service since last complete overhaul, the master gyro compass lost vacuum in the south rotor and became somewhat noisy in operation. The south rotor bearing and

— page 95 —
1. U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

two vertical bearings were found badly worn. These bearings were renewed but the south rotor failed to hold its vacuum. The gyro was run with no vacuum for the remainder of the patrol.

2. Kleinschmidt Vapor Compressor: On 24 July, after 123 hours of service since last complete overhaul, water from No. 2 unit was found unfit for battery water. This salted condition was attributed to the existing low compression pressure. The compressor was pulled by the repair force on U.S.S. HOLLAND during voyage repairs at GUAM, and it was found that lobe clearance was excessive. Lobes, gears, bearings, and oil seals were renewed. It was found that this compressor had received parts from three different submarines in the navy yard during our recent overhaul. At 225 hours oil seals on pulley end of No. 2 unit became leaky and had to be renewed. They were found to be installed backwards. At 270 hours oil seals on No. 1 unit became leaky. Investigation showed these also to be installed backwards. Seals were renewed. No. 1 unit now has 418.5 hours and No. 2 has 424.4 hours. Forward end oil seals on both units are leaking again and require renewal.

(L) RADIO.

1. No major casualties occurred. Reception from NFM was good both day and night. Own transmissions were promptly receipted for. The whip antenna showed marked superiority for reception compared to the wing antennas, with a signal strength ratio in its favor of at least 3 to 1.

2. VHF operation using both the SCR-624A and SCR-610 was satisfactory during the patrol. The range limitations of the SCR-610 make it particularly effective for close range ship to ship communication. No equipment failures occurred, although the SCR-624A receiver tended to overheat when left on for several days consecutively enroute to and from the area.

(M) RADAR.

1. Both the SD-5 and SJA radars gave excellent performances throughout the patrol. Few opportunities were afforded for the ST to demonstrate its effectiveness. During training, ranges up to 8000 yards were obtained, and during one night attack in the area the ST gave a very satisfactory performance. Casualties to all radar gear were of minor nature and easily remedied.

2. IFF gear was used very little. Operation was satisfactory and no equipment failures occurred.

— page 96 —
1. No major failures to either the JP-1 or NGA fathometer equipment were encountered. Coincident with grounding of the ship during evasion the port sound head was pushed up against the limit stops. Although the head was immediately rigged in, the JX-9Q equipment was inoperative during the remainder of the patrol, indicating serious damage.

2. Tremendous temperature gradients were encountered consistently in the entire area. As a result, sound contacts were reduced to a minimum and the effectiveness of both supersonic and sonic gear was greatly impaired during both attack and evasion. Listening ranges were reduced to as low as 600 yards.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS.

The density layers agreed with the conditions indicated in H.O. Publication No. 231. There was a very definite negative gradient throughout the JAPAN SEA. A good average condition was a 30° negative gradient within 200 feet of the surface. The bathymetrograph proved very useful in determining how to trim the boat at various depths and to determine sound conditions existing in the vicinity. The greatest number of cards to indicate these conditions were taken in the vicinity of 42°-30' N and 139°-30' E.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY.

1. The health of the crew was excellent throughout this patrol. This is attributed in part to the rest and recreation afforded them during the recent navy yard overhaul at MARS ISLAND and to the favorable conditions encountered in the area.

2. One man had his left middle finger broken when the dry stores hatch dropped on his hand, but the pharmacist's mate improvised a traction splint with some welding rod and rubber bands. The finger is healing nicely and will soon be as good as new.

3. The food was apple and well prepared. Avoset was used to stabilize and enrich the Klim and is a most desirable addition to the diet; it is hoped that this very useful item will remain available to submarines.

4. The booster blower installed by NYMI in the Control Room greatly improved living conditions in the Forward Battery and Forward Torpedo Room. The cool waters of the JAPAN SEA in August made the boat very comfortable, and it was the first time for us that the decks have not been wet from great during depth charge attacks.

— page 97 —
13
: 72
: 56
: 56
: 12

2. The conduct of every officer and man on board was in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Navy, and during contact with the enemy they performed their duties with a coolness and accuracy becoming of veterans in submarine warfare.

(R) MILES STEAMED -- FUEL USED.

GUAM to area -- 2,500 miles 31,219 gals.
In area -- 6,200 miles 40,500 gals.
Area to GUAM -- 2,050 miles 33,440 gals.
Total -- 10,750 miles 105,159 gals.

(S) DURATION.

Days enroute to area -- 9
Days in area -- 25
Days enroute to base -- 7
Days submerged -- 7

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING.

Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel Factor

3 12,000 gals. 15 days 15 days

Limiting factor this patrol -- Cessation of hostilities.

(U) RADIO, RADAR AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES.

Radar Countermeasures

1. Intercept of enemy signals.

| Date | Lat. | Long. | Freq. (Meps) | PRF (Cps) | Pulse Width (M sec) | Remarks |
|------|------|-------|||||
| 8/5/45 | 32°-31'N | 127°-51'E | 70 | 500 | 30-45 | Land based |
| 8/5/45 | 32°-31'N | 127°-51'E | 160 | 500 | 12 | Airborne |

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 98 —
8/6/45 35°-30'N 128°-25'E 148 500 60 Land based.
8/7/45 37°-17'N 137°-40'E 156 1000 6 Airborne.
8/9/45 41°-49'N 131°-25'E 180 150 5 Possibly Russian
8/9/45 42°-03'N 132°-15'E 180 150 5 airborne. Good
8/9/45 40°-32'N 133°-52'E 180 150 5 sharp pulse &
keyed. Forced
down by inidenti-
fied aircraft after
each interception.
Jap airborne.
8/10/45 40°-22'N 136°-50'E 155 1000 5 Land based.

(V) REMARKS.

1. The conclusion of hostilities came as an emotional shock to all of us -- right hot out from under a depth charge attack to find that the war was over, and we had won! It is believed now that we probably made the last attack and had the doubtful honor of receiving the last official depth charges of this terrible war.

2. The situation in this area has changed rapidly since June. All convoys and ships were well escorted and hugged the beach wherever possible -- even the lowly sea trucks!

3. With the conclusion of the war, the following statistics are of interest and are itemized for future reference:

(1) U.S.S. PARGO carried 26 Aerial 1943.
(2) Conclusion of 8th and last war patrol 9 September 1945.
(3) Ships sunk -- 14 plus results of 8th Patrol.
(4) Ships damaged -- 9 plus results of 8th Patrol.
(5) Tonnage sunk -- 92,920 plus results of 8th Patrol.
(6) Tonnage damaged -- 45,583 plus results of 8th Patrol.
(7) Special missions -- 3
(8) Gun actions -- 2
(9) Torpedoes fired -- 125
(10) Miles steamed -- 105,000
(11) Depth charges received -- 263
(12) Aerial bombs received -- 15
(13) Average age of officers -- 26
(14) Average age of crew -- 24

— page 99 —
44 - ENCLOSURE (A)

Subject: U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.

REMARKS - For Hometown Consumption!

1. After being driven down by the Russians for the sixth time in one day, the following ditty was written by Lt.(jg) Gerald C. Phillips, USNR, and is submitted for what it is worth. The suggested tune is that of "The Wabash Cannonball." Under the proper stimulation, I believe Gerry will gladly give a rendition of this song to anyone willing to buy the drinks.

THE SCOURGE OF THE JAP SEA

Tune: "Wabash Cannon Ball"

I. Through the mine fields of Tsushima
   To the Russian border shore,
   By the port of Nagasaki
   Where the atom bomb did roar,
   To the tune the FM's makin'
   As it sounds the chimes of hell,
   We're the fightin' Peter Pargo
   On the mine strewn road to hell.

Chorus: Oh listen to the thunder, the rumble and the blast.
   Was that plane Jap or Russian?
   Raise up the SD mast!
   We're the fightin' Peter Pargo;
   We're known throughout the West:
   The scourge of all the Jap Sea,
   Of submarines to the best.

II. With the Russians northward of us,
   And the Japs both east and west,
   And the mine fields southward of us,
   We are in a cozy nest.
   If a Russian ship we chance to sink,
   The Admiral starts to flail;
   But if the ship is Nipponese,
   A depth charge lifts our tail.

Chorus

III. If the contact mines don't get us,
   As they scrape along the side;
   If the Jap Tojos don't hit us,
   When they try to suicide;
   If the Stormoviks don't strafe us,
   As they see us chugging past,
   Then we may even yet survive
   The atom bombs great blast.

— page 101 —
1. SUBMARINE DIVISION OWNEIGHTY-OFFICER
FIRST INDORSMENT TO
U.S.S. MARGO (SS264)
Report of Night War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Division OWNEIGHTY-OFFICER.
To: The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTY-OFFICER.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
       (2) The Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.
       (3) The Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. MARGO (SS264), Report of Night War Patrol.

1. The eighth war patrol of the U.S.S. MARGO, under the command of Lieutenant Commander D.B. Bell, was conducted in the JAPAN SEA during the period from 30 July 1945 to 9 September 1945. The "cease firing" order was received on 15 August 1945. This aggressive and well conducted patrol was a fitting climax to the illustrious fighting career of this submarine.

2. Contacts worthy of torpedo fire were numerous during this patrol. Mine ship contacts were made before the cease firing order was received. The PARGO was able to choose four of these contacts for torpedo attack.

ATTACK NO. 1 - 8 AUGUST 1945. - This attack was a day submerged attack on a convoy consisting of one medium AK and three small AKs with two escorts. A favorable firing position was reached and six IKK-1-10d2 torpedoes were fired from the bow tubes at the large AK and two of the smaller AKs which were overlapping the larger one. As soon as the torpedoes were fired the PARGO went deep to avoid the nearest escort. Six timed torpedo hits were heard followed by loud breaking up noises. An analysis of times of torpedo runs indicates that three hits were made in the medium AK, one hit in one small AK, and two hits in another small AK. The PARGO was then subjected to a heavy but ineffective depth charging which caused no damage. Two hours after firing PARGO came to periscope depth and observed two small AKs, apparently damaged, and one escort still at the scene of the attack. One hour and a half later only one ship and one escort were visible along with what looked like the bow of a half sunken ship; all were still at the scene of the attack. Within another hour the object which looked like the bow of a ship had disappeared. After coming of darkness PARGO surfaced and

— page 104 —
1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of Commander Submarine Division ONE EIGHTY-ONE.
2. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew on the completion of this patrol and on the damage inflicted on the enemy.
3. Recommended assessment of damage:
   - Sunk: 1 AK, Ada Mar Class (EC) 5,200 tons.
   - Small (EU): 1 AK, 1 AK, small (EU) 2,000 tons.
   - Total Sunk: 9,200 tons.
   - Damaged: 1 AK, small (EU) 2,000 tons.

SUNK
1 AK, Ada Mar Class (EC) 5,200 tons.
1 AK, small (EU) 2,000 tons.
Total Sunk: 9,200 tons.
Damaged: 1 AK, small (EU) 2,000 tons.

STANLEY P. MOSELEY.

— page 105 —
1-1-1 (Serial 0309)
: 1-1-1 (CONFIDENTIAL)
: 1-1-1 (THIRD ADDRESS: TO PARGO Report of Eighth Air Patrol)
: 1-1-1 (SUBJECT: COLUSPAC PATROL REPORT 909 U.S.S. FARGO - LIGHT AIR PATROL)
: 1-1-1 (FROM: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet. The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet. The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.)
: 1-1-1 (SUBJECT: U.S.S. FARGO (55264) - Report of Eighth Air Patrol (30 July to 9 September 1945).)
: 1-1-1 (1. The eighth war patrol of the U.S.S. FARGO, commanded by Commander D. B. Bell, U.S. Navy, was of forty-two days duration, twenty-seven of which were spent in the Japan Sea after a successful transit of the Tsushima mine fields on 6 August 1945. Due to cessation of hostilities on 15 August FARGO had only eight days of offensive patrol in area.)
: 1-1-1 (2. During these eight days FARGO contacted four small escorted convoys, three of which were attacked; and seven sea trucks, one of which was attacked. These attacks resulted in the sinking of two freighters and the probable sinking of two others. FARGO departed from the Japan Sea via Tsushima Strait on 3 September 1945.)
: 1-1-1 (3. Award of the Submarine Combat Insignia is authorized for this patrol.)
: 1-1-1 (4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, takes pleasure in congratulating the Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the U.S.S. FARGO on their successful transits of the Tsushima mine fields and for initiating the following damage on the enemy:)
: 1-1-1 (SUIK)
: 1-1-1 (5,200 (Torpedo attack 1A))
: 1-1-1 (2,000 (Torpedo attack 2A))
: 1-1-1 (7,200 tons)
: 1-1-1 (D. L. G. CDR)
: 1-1-1 (2,000 (Torpedo attack 1B))
: 1-1-1 (2,000 (Torpedo attack 1C))
: 1-1-1 (4,000 tons)
: 1-1-1 (11,200 tons)
: 1-1-1 (C. A. LOCK ODD, Jr.)
: 1-1-1 (10 0575)

— page 106 —
12-10/1.16-3
Serial: 0309
CONTINENTAL
THIRD INDORSEMENT to
F. H. G. Report of
Eighth War Patrol.

COLUSSEA C. F. TROL REPORT NO. 909
U.S. S. F. H. G. - Eighth War Patrol.

Subject: U.S. S. F. H. G. (55264) - Report of Eighth War Patrol.
(30 July to 9 September 1945).

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7) | Comusowespace (2)
CNO (5) | Comoropac (1)
Cinepac (6) | Comusospace (3)
JIFO (1) | Comusospace.dCond (20)
.dICFO (1) | SUB.D. (2)
Comservpac (1) | .11. squadron and Div.
Cincel.ant (1) | Commander, Pacific (2)
Comusblant (8) | ComSubTroGrabAlboa (.air mail) (5)
S/1 School, NL (2) | Substrainpac (2)
CO, S/1 Base, PH (1) | .11 Submarines, Pacific (1)
Comsopec (2) | Comsovespace (1)
Comsovespace (1) | .U.S. .assistant Flag Secretary.

— page 107 —
30 Oct-1 Dec 1943
NAME: PARGO
SERIAL: 001
DATE: 15 September 1944
SUBJECT: Coordinated Patrol Report
Report of SECOND Coordinated Attack Group under Cdr.F.B. Ward in MARIANAS Islands area. Sank or damaged 76,244 tons of enemy shipping.
(CENPAC: US SUB OPS)
FILED: War Diary
Separately under TASK GROUP 17.15 no ser of 5 Dec 43

DATE: 14 September 1944
NAME: PARGO
SERIAL: 002
DATE: 15 September 1944
SUBJECT: Special Mission - Mine Plant, Report of Report of plant of 11 mines in KOTI Passage, BORNEO. No enemy opposition or contacts during this operation.

(SONESPAC: US SUB OPS)
FILED: War Diary
Separately as ORIGINAL
as Enc. to SEVENTH FLEET ser 002270 of 6 Nov 44

DATE: 4-6 February 1945
NAME: PARGO
SERIAL: 001
DATE: 10 February 1945
SUBJECT: Special Mission, Report of Report of landing of reconnaissance party on WOODY Island, PARACEL Islands. Island was shelled by sub when party returned to state it was in enemy hands despite French resistance. Mission over. Administration building.

FILED: War Diary
Separately as ORIGINAL, as PHOTOSTAT (0) as Enc to SUBS, SEVENTH FLEET ser 00160 of 17 Apr 45
(SONESPAC: US SUB OPS)
MICROSERIAL NO. ACTION REPORT OPNAV FORM 3480-13 (11-55) B-28683

— page 108 —
10 February 1945
FROM CO-USSS PARGO(SS-204)
SUBJECT TORPEDO FIRING REPORT
Report of firing of Mark 27 torpedo on Seventh War Patrol in the South China Sea off the coast of French Indo-China. Torpedo fired as a defensive maneuver and missed targets. (SOWESPAC; SUB OPS)

FILED: War Diary
Separately as PROCESSED COPY; as DUPLICATE COPY

MICROSERIAL NO. 6 August 1945
FROM Commanding Officer USS PARGO(SS-264)
SUBJECT TRANSIT OF TSUSHIMA STRAIT
Report(to SUBSPAC)of transit of minefields in Tsushima Strait on EIGHTH WAR PATROL to conduct mission in Sea of Japan against Japanese shipping. (CENPAC; SUB OPS)

FILED: War Diary
Separately as CARBON COPY; as DUPLICATE COPY

MICROSERIAL NO. 15 August 1945
FROM Commanding Officer USS PARGO(SS-264)
SUBJECT DECOY EQUIPMENT Report
Report(to SUBSPAC)Training Command)of use of decoy beacons during EIGHTH WAR PATROL. Decoys released when submarine attacked in shallow water in Lat 42-35N, Long 139-47E and are believed to have misled attacking craft.

FILED: War Diary
Separately as ORIGINAL

(CENPAC: SUB OPS)
MICROSERIAL NO.

— page 109 —
64326 FILMED

To: SUBMARINE DIVISION ONE TWENTY TWO

From: Commander Task Group 17,15.
To: Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.

Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
       (2) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: War Diary of Coordinated Attack Group from October 30, 1943 to December 1, 1943.

Reference: (a) CTF 17 Secret Operation Order 247-43 of October 28, 1943.
       (b) Detailed Plan for Coordinated Patrol and Attack; Task Group 17.15 (Secret - No Date).
       (c) War Patrol Report of PATROG's Second Patrol.
       (d) War Patrol Report of HOLDER's Third Patrol.
       (e) War Patrol Report of SMOKE's Fourth Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Subject "War Diary."

1. The enclosure is forwarded herewith.

2. It is submitted in advance of receipt of references (c), (d) and (e).

F. B. WARDER.

FILMED

— page 110 —
1943
: 1300 (WW)
: 1630 (M)
: 2300 (K)
: 1550 (K)
: 1555 (K)
: 1558 (K)
: 1842 (K)

War Diary of Coordinated Attack Group from October 30, 1943, to December 1, 1943.

NARRATIVE:

October 30, 1943
1300 (WW)
Arrived MDWAY. Conferred with Task Unit Commanders. Distributed Reference (b). SNOOK and HARDER adopted camouflage similar to PARGO as result of exercises enroute.
1630 (M)
Departed MDWAY. Engaged in group and individual exercises until reaching Meridian 1600E, at which time formed column distance 20 miles, course 259°, speed 10, in order to present widest possible front while crossing MAKE-MARCUS and EMPIRE-MANDATES routes. Order of ships: SNOOK, PARGO, HARDER.

November 10, 1943
2300 (K)
Made signal to increase speed to 15 knots and take course 262°.

November 12, 1943
0000 (K)
Made signal to increase speed to 17 knots.
1100 (K)
Took up patrol stations North of MARTINAS.
1300 (K)
SNOOK reported plane and dived.
1346 (K)
PARGO sighted and reported smoke bearing 050°T. HARDER sighted and reported smoke bearing 000°T. SNOOK did not receive for either signal (submerged?). PARGO took position ahead, identifying a freighter and an escort and at
1550 (K)
Submerged when dead ahead at about 9 miles. (Target bearing north).
1553 (K)
One distant or minor explosion.
1555 (K)
Two closer or more violent explosions.
1558 (K)
One closer or more violent explosion. PARGO was at deep submergence taking B/T data and checking trim during these events. On regaining periscope depth shortly afterwards, PARGO could not find freighter or escort. Subsequently in evening twilight PARGO began approach on what developed to be HARDER. PARGO had also examined a South bound trawler of about 500 tons which did not merit further attention under the circumstances.
1842 (K)
PARGO surfaced and received report from HARDER that AK had been sunk and that escort was abandoned and sinking and that nothing was left which would float. HARDER also reported by visual one main engine gear train wrecked. SNOOK reported by radio that plane had hovered over her for about half hour and that he was submerged at periscope depth from 1300 to 1400 but had sighted nothing else during day. Made signal to all ships to proceed independently to new station in Southern MARTINAS. Told HARDER

— page 111 —
1943
SUBJECT: War Diary of Coordinated Attack Group from October 30, 1943 to December 1, 1943.

we hoped he could stay with us for awhile yet. I chose to have ships proceed independently to next station as ships would be within easy flying range of Islands for entire route and I didn't want one plane to keep all of us down. On next day SNOOK sighted and reported one plane while proceeding to station.

November 13, 1943
2332 (K) PARGO picked up radar contact 2830T, distance 13,800 yards, which was emitting radar interference of old type SJ. SCORPION was expected here about this time and it is believed to have been SCORPION. This was one of many instances in which the need for IFF equipment between the ships was keenly felt.

November 14, 1943
0400 (K) Formed patrol: line to Northwest of Southern MARIANAS, 20 miles between ships, 060° - 2400T, one hour legs at 10 knots to maintain a front of 70 miles; midpoint of patrol 15221 N, 144040 E. Made signal to proceed on 3270T at 10 knots.

November 15, 1943
Instructed ships as to routing of pack while proceeding to new station south of BONINS.

November 16, 1943
0430 (K) Changed course to 0070T, advancing in line of bearing.

November 17, 1943
0700 (K) Formed scouting line 062° - 242° in vicinity 23451 N, 142020 E. PARGO was forced to dive by planes at 0945, at 1007, at 1110, at 1250. Maximum period submerged 1 hour 15 minutes. Received numerous plane contacts from HARDER and SNOOK who apparently had same trouble.

1430 (K) Reestablished scouting line, midpoint 23291 N, 142030 E. Line retired on 120°.

November 18, 1943
1100 (K) Established scouting line 030° - 2100T, midpoint 21351 N, 146000 E. Made signal to proceed at 1500 to take stationary patrol stations at 0400 K November 19 on line 0400 - 2200, midpoint 22181 N, 148017 E.

November 19, 1943
0501 (K) PARGO made contact on radar, 2 ships at 24,000 yards, 2730T and sent contact report which was received for by SNOOK but not by HARDER. This contact developed to be three ships and two escorts bound southeast.

0530 (K) PARGO sent amplifying report indicating target course 0600T (received for by SNOOK).

-2- ENGLISH (A)

— page 112 —
0540 (K) Much signalling, apparent gunfire in convoy with escort turning towards PARGO who dived and received depth charges from 0552 to 0631.
: 0826 (K) PARGO attacked escort vessel which had remained with him while convoy scattered to Southwestward. Expanded 3 torpedoes and received depth charge attack from 0827 to 1025.
: 1215 (K) PARGO surfaced and took course to Southeast to overtake convoy.
: 1220 (K) PARGO asked other ships for information, which message they did not receive.
: 1245 (K) - 1252 (K) Heard four distant explosions.
: 1417 (K) HARDER asked PARGO for information.
: 1427 (K) Received HARDER's 190420 stating that HARDER had got seven hits in two large freighters EMPIRE bound in 229371 N 1470181 E. (About 90 miles to NW of PARGO). He gave speed of convoy as 10 knots but did not give time of attack. He stated that his present position was some of attack.
: 1432 (K) Received contact from HARDER of ship bearing 330T 10 miles. As PARGO was closer to his convoy than this position decided to keep PARGO working to the Southeastward and at
: 1530 (K) Transmitted my 190530 instructing all ships that in absence of contacts they were to proceed at best speed to form new scouting line 0540 - 2340 midpoint 190181 N, 150481 E which was received for by SNOOK at 1536 and by HARDER at 1821.
: 1706 (K) Received SNOOK's 190640 asking us in future contacts to give position as he had been "chasing the moon". No possibility of ambiguity was apparent to me at the time as PARGO was on assigned station at time of originating two letter contact at 0507 K. "We learned afterwards that HARDER had sent a contact about 0200 K on EMPIRE bound convoy which had been received by SNOOK but not by PARGO and that SNOOK had first chased this HARDER contact and was properly non-plussed by PARGO's "two letter" bearing and distance signal and "two letter" target course signal at 0507 and 0530 K. Decided in future to use Aircraft Code.
: 2315 (K) PARGO made radar contact on South bound convoy and sent contact report which was received for by SNOOK. (HARDER probably working over his own problem about this time).

November 20, 1943
0005 (K) PARGO sent amplifying report. (Reciprocated for by SNOOK).
0230 (K) PARGO dived.
0325 (K) PARGO attacked large freighter and missed.
0402 (K) PARGO surfaced and ran around convoy.
0445 (K) Transmitted my 191815 to SNOOK giving latest information on convoy.
0754 (K) PARGO again sighted convoy bearing 324T but in endeavoring to get ahead lost contact and failed to regain it.
1338 (K) HARDER reported all torpedoes expended and proceeding as last previously directed by me, having obtained 2 hits in a third ship of northbound convoy.

-3- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 113 —
1943
War Diary of Coordinated Attack Group from October 30, 1943 to December 1, 1943.

1400 (K) SNOOK reported position and requested orders. Directed ships to scout to Southward from 18047° N, 151010° E (midpoint) at 10 knots from 1430 K to 1800 K.
1710 (K) Appointed rendezvous for succeeding a.m. which would permit individual scouting to South and West of original convoy track while working to rendezvous. Relocated HARDER. Received for by SNOOK. Could not raise HARDER.
1900 (K) Informed Consubmarine of activities to date. Intercepted HARDER's report to CONSUBMAE and CONSUBMPAC orders to HARDER, detaching him.

November 21, 1943
0355 (K) Made signal form column course West speed 14 to pass thru MARIANAS between PAGAN and ALMAGAN.
0618 (K) Sighted SNOOK astern. Informed SNOOK of present plans, decreased standard distance to 14 miles, and found out that he had been too far north of us to get in on convoy which PARGO had attacked twice. Made signal course 265 speed 10 to enable ships go through Islands after dusk.
1250 (K) Interacted with PARGO.
1632 (K) Interacted with PARGO.
November 23, 1943
1112 (I) Established stationary patrol 280° - 100°, distance 14 miles, midpoint 17040° N, 136020° E.
1805 (I) Moved line to Southward at 14 knots on course 196°. Instructed ships to discontinue use of SD radar while outside range probable air patrols.

November 24, 1943
1645 (I) Reestablished stationary patrol, midpoint 12351° N, 134055° E, 290° - 110°, distance 14 miles.

November 26, 1943
Closed SNOOK at noon and made signal to take course 020° speed 10 until 21 Zebra 26th at which time change to 010°. At 3 Z 27 ships to proceed independently to Northeastern, SNOOK to patrol south of latitude 190° N and PARGO North of same. Instructed SNOOK to shove off when his fuel limitations required and to report independantly to CONSUBMAE when one days' run homeward of Meridian 140° E. PARGO took position abeam at 14 miles.

November 28, 1943
1505 (I) FARGO sighted smoke of several ships bearing 2940T from 19121° N, 140° E.
1535 (I) Sent contact report to SNOOK.
1716 (I) Sunset.
1735 (I) PARGO sent amplifying report to SNOOK.
1316 (I) PARGO picked SNOOK up on radar (IFF badly needed).

-4- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 114 —
1943
War Diary of Coordinated Attack Group from October 30, 1943 to December 1, 1943.

1837 (I)
Lost contact with SNOOK. Both PARGO and SNOOK on port side of convoy. Convoy determined to be total of six ships. PARGO went around to starboard side of convoy as he was closer to convoy; but found SNOOK there from 1955 to 2011 at which time SNOOK dropped back astern of convoy.

2202 (I)
PARGO fired three torpedoes at escort vessel which had headed for him at increased speed, and dived. There were explosions from 2203 to 2356.

2357 (I)
PARGO surfaced and found two targets on Radar.

November 29, 1943
PARGO attacked Freighter Transport which sank by 0257. PARGO scouted to Southeastward to find remaining ships.

0404 (I)
Received SNOOK's message reporting expenditure all torpedoes for nine hits and SNOOK heading home.

0543 (I)
PARGO sighted ship 330°T.

0755 (I)
PARGO dived and attempted approaches on a Tanker of about 4000 tons and a Freighter Transport of about 5000 tons. These ships steered most radical zigs and had only made good about 4 knots along the base course since the first attack of the preceding night. They were overtaken by an escort vessel which ran over PARGO and headed for GUAM. PARGO was never able to attain attack position and surfaced at 1532 about 2½ hours after ships went out of sight to Southeastward. PARGO scouted to Southeastward at high speed but failed to regain contact.

November 30, 1943
PARGO established an East-West patrol in vicinity 15° N, 141° E until 1216 at which time he decided to run back projected target track until 1400 and then take course for intercepting targets unroute GUAM.

1415 (I)
PARGO sighted smoke bearing 310°T and while tracking to determine course and get ahead for night attack at.

1636 (I)
Sighted smoke bearing 180°T.

1655 (I)
PARGO dived to avoid detection.

1827 (I)
PARGO surfaced.

2049 (I)
PARGO fired four torpedoes at Tanker, one of which hit. Tanker held or increased speed and at.

2328 (I)
PARGO fired four more torpedoes at Tanker, all of which hit. Tanker stopped but did not sink. Large boat seen in water.

December 1, 1943
PARGO fired three more torpedoes at tanker, two of which hit.

0051 (I)
Target sank.

0110 (I)
PARGO went close aboard life boat (which was large) and hailed it several times. Flash lights had been seen on board. Illuminated

-5- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 115 —
1943

Subject: "Air Diary of Coordinated Attack Group from October 30, 1943 to December 1, 1943.

boat with light and observed machine guns in turrets so PARGO promptly emptied 2 20 MM magazines and much small arms ammunition into boat. Boat appeared to be a Type "C" landing craft except was better streamlined. Boat commenced sinking by storm and PARGO commenced return to port, having expended all torpedoes; passing through MARINA's north of PAGAN and scouting for traffic between MANDATES and EMPIRE enroute to base.

REMARKS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. Fuel consumption became a problem early in the operation; although PARGO was in relatively comfortable condition with 23,000 gallons reserve fuel in No. 4 M.B.T. It is recommended that this PARGO Reserve Fuel Alteration (or similar alteration) be performed on all fleet submarine at first opportunity.

2. COMMUNICATIONS:

(a) Failure of PARGO to receive HARDER contact report at about 0210 K of November 19 can be attributed to operator intent on copying intercept schedule at this time, or improper receiver setting in PARGO. Voice radio of TBS or low frequency type with outlets in conning tower and bridge would eliminate at least part of this problem and would also render exchange of information at visual rendezvous more easy. Submarines are poor at visual signalling and always will be.

(b) At no time was it believed that the low frequency transmissions resulted in productive Jap D/F activity. Bridge personnel complained of antenna sparking during transmission and they thought this may have been the cause of convoy detecting PARGO in morning watch of November 19.

(c) After confusion which resulted in SNOCK getting in no attacks on either HARDER or PARGO convoy on November 19-20 decided to use AIRGRAFF Code for all contacts where there was any possibility of confusion. This provides short transmission and a ready means of indicating positions. It also proved to be in excellent channel for other communications relative to movements of the pack.

(d) Frequencies: Jap shore-ship traffic was intercepted on 385 Kcs (SIO MISAKI) (Copy of message sent to ICONA). 344 Kcs was too close to Jap airplane homing frequency of 346. 540 and 250 Kcs proved satisfactory substitutes for those frequencies. In addition to foregoing there was miscellaneous light interference on 272 and 294 Kcs.

(e) HARDER suggested a 30 second transmission by flagship 5 minutes after daily frequency shift. This is believed to be practicable if pack is not operating ahead of an expected contact at the time. Great care was taken to have no signalling take place other than reports of contacts when operating on a suspected enemy route.

-6- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 116 —
3. IFF EQUIPMENT:

The need for this equipment was keenly felt on numerous occasions, most notably when crossing SCORPION track on November 13 and during SNOOK - PARGO attacks on convoy during night of November 28-29.

4. USE OF SD RADAR:

After failure to contact anything except airplanes in scouting operations of November 17 HARDER suggested non-use of this equipment as there appeared to be a strong likelihood of it betraying our presence. I considered that our proximity to aircraft facilities forbade its abandonment at this time but in operations on November 23 et seq I directed ships to discontinue use while outside range of probable shore based patrols. It is believed quite possible that a ship in a convoy is carrying a detector which is D/F'ing our SD emission and causing a re-route of the ships.

5. RESULTS:

A digest of the radio traffic indicates that this operation resulted in the sinking of at least six Jap ships and the damaging of six others. All submarines expanded all torpedoes in a relatively short period of operation. It is not believed that comparable results could have been obtained close aboard an enemy port without accepting much more rigorous A/S measures than were experienced by these ships. It is regretted that greater damage was not inflicted. For the damage which was done the Commanding Officers, their officers and crews deserve full credit. Their loyal and eager co-operation was a source of great pleasure.

6. The presence of a Division Commander is not considered necessary in this type of operation as it can well be directed by an experienced senior Commander. It is thought, however, that the occasional presence of a division commander will be beneficial to both him and to the service.

F. B. WARDER.

— page 117 —
01922
Serial: 01922
CONFIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CTC 17.15 Conf. 1tr.
FD-122/All-3 dated
5 December 1943.

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

Subject: War Diary of Coordinated Attack Group from October 30, 1943 to December 1, 1943.

1. The second coordinated attack group under the command of Commander F. B. Warder, U.S. Navy, operated in the area surrounding the Marianas Islands.

2. Although all of the attacks except one were individual, the results obtained by concentrating three submarines in good traffic focal points are most gratifying. The one coordinated attack made by the FARGO (SS264) and SNOOK (SS279) resulted in the sinking of at least three ships and damaging of four more, all within a period of about five hours.

3. Once again communications were a major difficulty. The use of the aircraft code by the Task Group Commander solved some of the communication problems.

4. The need of IFF equipment was most apparent on the night of 28-29 November when the SNOOK held fire several times, believing one of the targets might be the FARGO. As it is expected that coordinated attack groups will be used frequently in the future, and also in view of the fact that submarines from this Force are now beginning to operate with and in the vicinity of our own surface combatant vessels, every effort must be made to expedite the delivery and installation of this equipment.

5. It is possibly true that the SD equipment on the submarines of this group was D/F'd in the vicinity of shore stations in the Marianas Islands when within 200 miles of them. However, it is felt that discretion must be used in securing this equipment when daytime surface running is reserved to, particularly on overcast and low cloudy days. The keying of the SD circuit and careful and brief operation of the equipment should make it difficult, if not impossible, for good DF bearings to be obtained by the enemy.

— page 119 —
1944
UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET
AND PACIFIC OCEAN AREAS
HEADQUARTERS OF THE COMMANDER IN CHIEF

Serial 0186
CONFIDENTIAL

2nd Endorsement on
CTG 17.15 Conf. 1tr.
FB-122/A16-3, dated
5 December 1943.

From: Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.
To: Commander in Chief, U. S. Fleet.

Subject: War Diary of Coordinated Attack Group from October 30, 1943 to December 1, 1943.

1. Forwarded, concurring with paragraphs 4, 5, and 8 of First Endorsement.

Copy to:
ComSubPac
CTG 17.15

FILMED

— page 120 —
SS264/A16-3
Serial 002

U. S. S. FARGO (SS-264)
Care of Fleet Fest Office,
San Francisco, California,
15 September 1944.

DECLASSIFIED

From:  The Commanding Officer.
To:  The Commander Task Group SEVENTY ONE POINT ONE.

Subject:  Special Mission - Report of.

Reference:  (a) Comtaskgroup 71.1 Secret Operation Order 125-44 of
& September 1944, Annex "F".

Inclosure:  (A) Subject report.
    (B) Overlay of mine plant (two copies).
    (C) U.S.S. FARGO Mine Flating Bill.

1. Enclosures (A), (B) and (C), covering the Special
Mission conducted on the night of 14 September 1944 in the vicinity
of South Natuna Islands during the FIFTH War Patrol of U.S.S. FARGO,
are forwarded herewith.

D.B. BELL.

Reclassified from "Cont to Confidential
by CinC. OACout (A, 0510/603 Aug. 1944)

CONFIDENTIAL

11 749.

Encl. (A)

— page 121 —
1. The Special Mission consisted of planting eleven (11) Mark 12 mines in KOTI PASSAGE along a sine wave approximately 1500 yards apart in a rectangle defined by the following points;

LATITUDE-NORTH | LONGITUDE-EAST
(a) 02-42-55 | 108-57-18
(b) 02-36-30 | 109-01-45
(c) 02-35-03 | 108-59-40
(d) 02-41-30 | 108-55-13

2. Originally it was planned to approach the mining area from the northeast to avoid shallow water and dangers to navigation. Nevertheless, after a thorough study of the charts, coast pilot information, and observation of weather and tidal conditions while submerged forty miles southwest of the location, it was decided to proceed directly to KOTI PASSAGE and commence planting that same night for the following reasons;

(a) Weather conditions were ideal - completely overcast sky, no wind or sea, hazy horizon, and moonrise at 0444 (ZT - 8).
(b) The best navigational fixes could be obtained by approaching from the southwest using radar fixes on the high peaks of SERAJA ISLAND, TEBIAN BESAR, and MT. KOTI, which would minimize the dangers of the shoal water and reefs.
(c) Planting the mines at night removed the hazards of losing depth control and of having impulse bubbles sighted.
(d) Two days could be saved, and in view of the strategic situation existing, it was felt that the sooner the plant was made, the better.

TACTICS:
While still six miles from land, went to battle stations submerged but manned the 20mm guns, shifted to batter-motor combination for propulsion, and trimmed down to reduce the chances of being heard or sighted. Courses were laid to present a minimum silhouette as long as possible while close to the beach, and speed was kept between 6 and 9 knots to reduce bow and stern wakes. It was thus possible to remain undetected even though we were at times only two miles from the beach.

ENEMY ACTIVITY:
None.

— page 122 —
1. NAVIGATION:
To facilitate locating the mines in the desired positions, an enlargement of H.O. Chart #3040, BORNEO-NORTHWEST COAST, TANDJONG BAJONG TO TANJONG SIRIK was made to the scale one inch equals one mile (The enclosed overlay of the mine plant was traced from this enlargement). The desired positions of the mines were plotted on this chart, and the ship was maneuvered to pass through these points.

The approach to the area was made from the southwest passing four miles north of HAYNES SHOAL. The first mine was planted in the southwest corner of the rectangle as close to the beach as it was felt that large ships would pass, and the ship was then maneuvered to follow the sine wave pattern to the northeast corner where the last mine was planted. The stern of the ship was then swung toward the beach, and the retirement was made to the eastward.

One fathometer reading was taken prior to starting the plant which checked with the chart at 20 fathoms. The first six mines were located using TBT bearings and radar ranges on MT. KOTI. The last five mines were located using TBT bearings and radar ranges on TERDAU ISLAND and radar ranges on FANDJANG ISLAND. The DEAD RECKONING TRACER was used to check the navigational plot of positions, and it indicated a one knot northeasterly current during the planting. Accurate TBT bearings were obtained on MT. KOTI and KERDAU ISLAND up to 12,000 yards.

LOG OF MINE PLANT

| Mine No.: | Time of Planting: | Latitude: | Longitude: |
|||||
| 1        | 2347 (Z.T.-3)     | 02-35-50  | 108-59-41   |
| 2        | 2355             | 02-36-43  | 109-00-08   |
| 3        | 0001             | 02-37-22  | 108-59-32   |
| 4        | 0006             | 02-37-57  | 108-59-06   |
| 5        | 0012             | 02-38-30  | 108-58-35   |
| 6        | 0017             | 02-38-55  | 108-58-10   |
| 7        | 0022             | 02-39-30  | 108-57-30   |
| 8        | 0029             | 02-40-06  | 108-57-10   |
| 9        | 0035             | 02-40-56  | 108-57-00   |
| 10       | 0040             | 02-41-40  | 108-57-00   |
| 11       | 0044             | 02-42-23  | 108-57-12   |

TRIM OF SHIP:

The Diving Officer kept the drain pump on the After Torpedo Room bilge to keep it as dry as possible and continually adjusted the trim during the planting operation so the ship could dive at any time if necessary. After all mines were planted and the tubes loaded with torpedoes, a trim dive was made to check the trim, and it was found satisfactory.

— page 124 —
5th War Patrol
- SUMMARIES: MINING BILL - -

Note:-
H hours is time plant starts.

I) At (-) 1-1/2 H hours removed of both mine spiders will start. At -3/4 H hours this job will be completed.

II) At -3/4 H hours A.T.R. reload crew will assemble in A.T.R.

III) At -3/4 H hours A.T.R. personnel assisted by reload crew will:
   1. Slide mine on after end of No. 9 tube skid to forward end of skid and secure it.
   2. Withdraw both mines from No. 9 tube (necessitates breaking tube interlock to permit retraction of stop bolt) until coupling presents itself. Break coupling, slide forward mine onto skid, and secure in place. RELOCK TUBE INTERLOCK.
   3. Fifty inches of the mine remaining in No. 9 tube will then be withdrawn from tube. Torpedo Officer will then remove two (2) safety toggles, and one (1) safety bar wing-nut from this mine.
   4. This mine will then be shoved back into No. 9 tube until stop bolt engages. Inner door will then be closed.
   5. At -1/2 H hours No. 9 tube will be ready to flood.

2. At -1/2 H hours mine on forward end of No. 10 tube skid will be hoisted clear of skid.
3. After mine on No. 10 skid will be shoved forward, to a position approximately under elevated mine and secured.
4. Both mines in No. 10 tube will then be shoved forward (necessitates breaking tube interlock to permit retraction of stop bolt) until mine coupling presents itself. Coupling will be broken, and forward mine will be shoved onto after end of No. 10 skid and secured. RELOCK No. 10 TUBE INTERLOCK.
5. Fifty inches of mine remaining in No. 10 tube will then be withdrawn from tube and torpedo Officer will remove two (2) safety toggles pins and one (1) safety bar wing-nut.
6. This mine will then be shoved back into No. 10 tube until stop bolt engages. Inner door then secured.
7. Both mines on No. 10 skid will then be shoved aft, permitting elevated mine to be lowered onto skid. The three mines on No. 10 skid will then be secured in place.
8. At -1/4 H hours No. 10 tube will be ready to flood.

IV) At -1/4 H hours:
   1. Ship will go to battle stations.
   2. After W.R.T. tank will be blown dry.

V) At -10 minutes H:-
   1. Tubes No. 9 and 10 will be flooded from sea.
   2. Outer doors on No. 9 and 10 tubes will be opened.
   3. Poppets will not be cocked.

— page 125 —
4. No. 9 tube ready light will be switched on.
5. Tube will be fired from conning tower by Conning Officer.
6. 250 psi impulse pressure will be used.
7. No. 10 tube will remain in a ready condition, with ready light off.

VI) 1. Upon firing No. 9 tube, tube will be secured, blown down, and after mine on No. 9 skid will be loaded. No. 9 tube ready light will then be switched on.
2. After firing second mine from No. 9 tube, reload procedure will be followed, and remaining mine on No. 9 skid will be loaded. Ready light switched on.
3. No. 9 skid, now empty, will be hoisted and secured to upper racks.
4. Center skid with two mines attached will be shoved to a position in front of No. 9 tube.
5. Upon firing No. 9 tube, ready light on No. 10 tube will be switched on.
6. No. 9 impulse bottle will be bled down and firing valve refilled.
7. When firing valve has been refilled on No. 9 tube, tube will be loaded and made ready to fire. Ready light will not be turned on.

VII) 1. Firing and loading procedure, as outlined above, will be carried out at No. 10 tube, until four mines have been fired from this tube.
2. When last mine on No. 10 skid has been fired:
   a) Ready light on No. 9 tube will be turned on.
   b) Empty skid in front of No. 10 tube will be shoved to center of room.
   c) Lower port outboard skid, with two mines attached, will be shoved to a position in front of No. 10 tube.
   d) Impulse bottle on No. 10 tube will be bled down, and No. 10 firing valve will be refilled.
   e) When firing valve on No. 10 tube has been filled, and impulse pressure built up in bottle, after mine on No. 10 skid will be loaded into tube, and tube will be made ready for firing.
   f) When last mine has been fired from No. 9 tube, No. 10 tube ready light will be switched on.
   g) Upon firing No. 10 tube, 1lth and last mine will be loaded into No. 10 tube, and tube made ready. Ready light will be turned on.

VIII) In brief, it should be noted that this bill calls for:
a) Electrically firing all mines from the Conning Tower.
b) Order of firing:
   1 - Three mines to be fired from No. 9 tube. Firing valve to be refilled.
   2 - Four mines to be fired from No. 10 tube. Firing valve to be refilled.

— page 126 —
3 - Two mines to be fired from No. 9 tube.
: 4 - Remaining two mines to be fired from No. 10 tube.
c) Time schedule:
: 1 - It will be possible to fire at two minute intervals if necessary.
: 2 - Approximately five minutes will be required to refill firing valve. By alternate firing of tubes, there is a time safety factor of greater than 100%.

IX) Upon completion of the mine plant, tubes No. 9 and 10 will be loaded with kk. 18-1 torpedoes.

Respectfully submitted,
C. W. COOK.

Approved,
D. B. BELL,
Commanding Officer.

— page 127 —
ENCLOSURE C

| Mine | Mine | Mine | Mine | Mine |
|------|------|------|------|------|
| Mk 18-1 Torpedo | Skid | Skid | Skid | Skid |
| Mk 18-1 Torpedo | Skid | Skid | Skid | Sk

— page 129 —
SS264/A16-3
Serial 001

From:  The Commanding Officer.
To:  The Commander in Chief, U.S. Fleet.
Via:  Official Channels.

Subject:  Special Mission Performed by U.S.S. FARGO (SS264), 4 to 6 February 1945.

Reference:  (a) Comtaskgroup 71.1 secret despatch serial 95 of 1 February 1945.

Enclosure:  (A) Report of Gun Attack, 6 February 1945.
(B) Sketch of WOODY ISLAND.
(C) Track Chart of Submarine.

1. This mission was conducted pursuant to reference (a), which is paraphrased as follows:

"CONDUCT RECONNAISSANCE OF WOODY ISLAND X CHECK ON POSSIBLE WHITE FRIENDS THERE FLYING FRENCH FLAG X RESCUE PERMITTED IF YOU THINK POSSIBLE X HAVE MAJOR JINKINS ASSIST AS FEASIBLE X"

2. At 0230, 2 February, a rendezvous was made at sea with the U.S.S. FLOUNDER, and Major William L. Jinkins, A.I.F., and W.O./I Alec Chew, A.I.F., transferred to this ship via rubber boats and reported for duty.

3. A narrative of this operation follows:

4. Feb. 145 - Spent this day making a submerged reconnaissance of WOODY ISLAND, one of the PARACHIEL ISLANDS, Lat. 16°-50'N, Long. 112°-20'E.

0630 (H) - Submerged and commenced a periscope reconnaissance of island at a range of 3000 to 4000 yards. Observed following: There were heavy breakers about 1000 yards from the beach at the edge of reef which surrounded the island. The island was well covered with mangroves, and the inhabited portion was on the southwest side. The structures

— page 130 —
4 Feb. '45 (Cont'd.)

on the island were in two groups: the first, a group of older buildings just inland from the jetty which was about 300 yards long and as shown on the chart (See HO-2785); the second, a group of newer, well-kept buildings about 300 yards north of the old group. The old group consisted of a grey frame tower about 50 feet high surrounded by 11 tin sheds about 100 feet long and 40 feet wide and 7 small huts. On the top of the grey tower were a weather vane, a wind speed indicator, and several other instruments, and near it were two radio masts about 80 feet high. The new group was built up around a white frame administrative building with a 50 foot tower on the front end of it from which the French Tricolor was flown. It was surrounded by four small white frame houses, two small tin sheds, and one small, pagoda-like building. On the beach near the jetty were a motor launch and 7 fishing boats about 25 feet long (The fishing boats were thought to be unserviceable when seen later through binoculars at 100 yards). Saw about 20 men during the course of the day along the beach.

1045 (H) - Saw the French Tricolor being hoisted on a flagpole on top of the white tower.

1907 (H) - Surfaced to charge batteries. Decided to wait for more favorable weather before sending Major Jinkins and Warrant Officer Chew ashore and to spend the next day in making further reconnaissance of the island.

5 Feb. '45 - Reconnaissance of WOODY ISLAND.

0628 (H) - Submerged and commenced circling island. Observed no new developments except that flag was not raised.

1050 (H) - Commenced opening out to surface early and prepare to put reconnaissance party ashore just after dark.

— page 131 —
5 Feb. '45 (Cont'd.)
1251 (H) - Sighted U.S. aircraft (PEM) over WOODY ISLAND.
1844 (H) - Surfaced and found it was again too rough to put party ashore.
2300 (H) - Seas began to subside; sc decided to attempt to land party just before dawn to give them the advantage of the moonlight for crossing the reef and yet have some darkness to cover them once they were ashore.
6 Feb. '45 - Reconnaissance of WOODY ISLAND.
0435 (H) - Disembarked reconnaissance party 2500 yards bearing 250° T from the jetty.
0530 (H) - Received a message from party saying they were safely ashore.
0618 (H) - Submerged and patrolled designated point watching the beach for any activity.
0755 (H) - Sighted reconnaissance party at close range through periscope. The party was smiling and making a hand signal indicating gun fire; so it was evident that there was no need to conceal our presence any more.
0808 (H) - Surfaced 5000 yards from beach; picked up landing party and opened out from land.
0812 (H) - Reconnaissance party reported island to be occupied by the enemy; so decided to shell the island with 4" gun and 20 MM before we departed.
0820 (H) - Commenced bombardment of buildings at opening range of 5000 yards. After the first shot, the French Tricolor was hoisted from the administration building (white

— page 132 —
SS264/A16-3
Serial 001
SS- SECRET
Subject: Special Mission Performed by U.S.S. PARGO (SS264), 4 to 6 February 1945.

6 Feb. '45 (Cont'd.)

tower), but this was considered to be a ruse; so proceeded to shell the combined radio-weather station (grey tower) until 4 or 5 hits were observed. No opposition was encountered. The range was gradually closed to 2000 yards. Using the same tower as point of aim, the gunfire was directed by spotting to the huts and sheds near this tower. Then the administration building (white tower) was taken under fire until 4 to 6 hits were made in it, and the flag and flag pole were shot down. As we were now at the north end of the island decided to make one more pass and retire to the southward before aircraft arrived. Opened fire on the large sheds, boats, and jetty until the radio tower was abeam, and then fired several parting shots into it.

0903 (H) - Secured from bombardment and commenced opening out to southward at 18 knots; special mission completed.

4. The details of the bombardment, damage inflicted, and ammunition expended are forwarded herewith in enclosure (A). A rough sketch of WOODY ISLAND and a track of the submarine during this mission are forwarded herewith in enclosures (B) and (C).

5. The conduct of Major Jinkins and Warrant Officer Chew was an inspiration to all hands on board. Their knowledge and training were of great assistance during this mission. It was a privilege to have them as shipmates, and it is a pleasure to commend them for their actions which were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Navy.

Copy to:
CTF 71.1 (2) (Jess enclosures E and C)

— page 133 —
60 rounds 4"/50 cal. high capacity.
11 rounds 4"/50 cal. common.
18 pans of 20 MM.

3 1769
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 140 —
16/12/1944
To:  Major W. L. JINKINS.
To:  Commander Task Force 71.

Subject:  Report on Reconnaissance Mission.

In accordance with instructions received from Commander Task Force 71 to FLOUNDER and PARGO, Major JINKINS together with WOI CHEW were transferred from FLOUNDER to PARGO. The transfer was made at sea during dark of February 1-2 with moderate sea, the PARGO sending a rubber raft, JINKINS and CHEW assembling and using a foldboat. As no instructions had been given regarding JINKINS after completion of mission, nor concerning the approximate length of time he would remain aboard the PARGO, it was decided to transfer all JINKINS' gear. The stores which were damageable by water were carried by canoe, the remainder by rubber boat. The transfer was made without incident. One SCR 195 wireless set became wet. This shorted the battery and rendered it useless. Minor repairs to the set restored it to operational condition.

SPECIAL MISSION

After careful reconnaissance of WOODY ISLAND which revealed the existence of many buildings and store sheds, a radio station, many boats, 30 or more personnel, and the hoisting of the French Tricolor at 1045 hours alternate days, it was decided that Major JINKINS AND WOI CHEW should go ashore to identify the occupants of WOODY ISLAND, if friendly to return with one or two representatives for interrogation aboard PARGO, or after discussion with leaders communicate findings to Captain BELL by W/T and reach a decision prior to returning to ship, and should the inhabitants prove unfriendly to return to sea to be picked up.

The recce indicated that the main hazard would be the navigational difficulties through the surf breaking over the coral ledge 600 yards off shore. After several days' wait for more suitable weather, at 0200 hours on the morning of February 7 it was decided that an attempt to carry out the mission would be made. The PARGO at this stage having completed her charge, headed toward the island.

0315 Hours The canoe and gear were passed topside through Torpedo Room escape trunk, the lower end dogged closed. JINKINS and CHEW to clear decks into escape trunk and dog hatch from inside.

0355 Canoe was assembled and loaded ready for launching, bearings and ranges made known to JINKINS, final signal arrangements completed, and at

— page 141 —
0410
the canoe was launched at 3600 yards range and the paddle ashore commenced. Wireless communication was established 400 yards from submarine and maintained until the reef was reached. The wireless gear was then stowed with instructions that we would open up when ashore. If no communication was possible through capsule or water in sets, a white light would be flashed to sea. This proved unnecessary. After several anxious moments in the five to six foot surf, the transit was made into calm water.

: 0450
The shore was reached at the selected spot, the canoe hidden in mangrove trees on the island, tracks obliterated, and at

: 0515
Wireless communication was reestablished, progress reported and another schedule arranged for 0600.

: 0600
First light appeared. Communication established and notification made that the recceo was to begin. Schedules were arranged for 0900, 1200 and from 1900 onwards, the PARGO coming to 48 feet to allow the ship antenna, which was fixed to the IFF antenna, to break surface. The radio set was hidden and at

: 0620
The recceo commenced:

The first indications of the presence of Japs was the discovery of foot prints in the sand. Several different sets of Jap split toed shoes were found. At this stage it was discovered that there were dog paw prints on the beach and also on several semi-trails through the mangroves. From a position on the edge of the undergrowth and approximately 150 yards to 200 yards south from the base of the jetty, the dog, a large cross between an allsation and an airdale, was observed to run out onto the beach at the end of the jetty and approach in our direction. When slightly south of Crew and myself it picked up our scent, nosed around and followed our trail to within 50 yards of us where it saw us and returned to the beach and sat. At this stage a bait or the noise or smell of a bitch was necessary to attract the dog near enough to do away with it without noise. As there was reasonable doubt as to the possibility of killing the dog no lessly from this range, we were forced to ignore it temporarily. At this stage a man walked out onto the jetty to tend fishing lines. He was observed to be

— page 142 —
0740 The return paddle was commenced, and after navigating the surf successfully, at
: 0820 The periscope of PARGO was sighted, the canoe was padded into their line of vision and signs made to indicate Japs on the island.
: 0830 The PARGO surfaced and the canoe padded onto the deck during blowing up. The information gathered was conveyed to the captain whilst the canoe and gear was passed below, and at approximately
: 0915 Shelling of WOODY ISLAND by PARGO commenced.

Communication and cooperation between the shore party and the PARGO was excellent at all times. The equipment used was most satisfactory. A TSM, Carbine and Very Pistol were supplied from PARGO for the operation, the Very Pistol to be used to fire a red flare if the shore party required covering fire for withdrawal.

— page 143 —
2330 Hours 20 February preparations were made below, all gear assembled in forward room, contact was made with the FLOUNDER and a rendezvous was arranged.

: 2345 All gear was passed topside and made ready for transfer, the PARGO again supplying a rubber raft to assist in the transfer. The canoe was assembled and loaded.

: 0015 21 February the raft and canoe were launched and the passage made to the FLOUNDER. All stores conveyed by rubber raft were successfully transferred, although all were subject to salt water immersion. The stores from the canoe were being passed aboard and were also all subject to salt water immersion due to wash from the large swells and waves breaking over the canoe. Then just prior to passing the last four packages aboard, the canoe was capsized by an exceptionally large wave. Every effort was made to recover the canoe and stores, but owing to the seas this proved impossible and the canoe and remainder of gear was a total loss. Further losses due to immersion also occurred. Addendum "A" is a list of stores lost. Addendum "B" is a commentary on stores used, their efficiency and suggestions.

The remainder of stores aboard the PARGO were transferred in a second trip by the rubber raft. Every effort was made by all concerned to keep the gear dry, the state of the seas alone being responsible for the losses incurred. At

0230 The transfer of stores and personnel was complete and all gear stowed below.

Unfortunately in the loss of gear were a number of photographs of WOODY ISLAND taken during the recon and the gun action. These photographs showed plainly the installations on the island and also the damage inflicted by the PARGO'S battery.

W. L. JENKINS,
Major.

G 1515

— page 145 —
1. The equipment taken ashore in Folboat on recce was as follows:
2. Folboat, assembled, and repair kit.
3. 2 single paddles.
4. 2 double paddles.
5. 1 radar screen and mast.
6. 1 1-1 HP motor and bracket.
7. 2 1 Gal. fuel and funnel.
8. 1 P8 compass.
9. 1 Pr binoculars.
10. 2 Tins rations A.M.P.
11. 2 Water bottles, full.
12. 1 SCR 195 radio set.
13. 1 TSMG, 4 magazines.
14. 1 Carbine, 4 magazines.
15. 2 Lugers, 2 magazines each.
16. 1 Welrod, 1 magazine.

All of this equipment was very satisfactory with the exception of the binoculars and the folboat cover. The present folboat cover needs improvement to allow freer movement forward of each paddler and amore flexible attachment. At present it is impossible to remove cover whilst at sea. It is suggested that a cover be made with press studs and zip fasteners similar to the Kyak design. Had it been possible to remove the stores from the folboat easier and more rapidly the capsize would not have occurred. The present cover does not prevent the influx of water. When paddling through the surf, waves breaking over the stern enter at the rear of cockpit. With the motor bracket rigged this is more noticeable.

FOLBOAT - The difficulty in assembly of both the folboat and kyak after stowage below decks when wet was again most noticeable. This proves that sufficient tests in assembly with the skins saturated have not been carried out. It has been found necessary to reduce the length of dowels, by cutting, up to 3".

— page 146 —
1. Owing to various circumstances it is impossible to completely dry out the skin which remains damp for the whole cruise, irrespective of the number of assemblies below deck. Further improvement in this matter should be made D/Tek (a) to a certain the minimum length of dowels that can be used without loss of efficiency, through the water by loose skin. (b) The reason for apparent uneven shrinkage of skin when wet for considerable periods, i.e., more than 4 weeks, less than 8 weeks. It has been found at each attempt to assemble the folboat that the gunwhale of the cockpit has not assembled in the same manner twice. At times No. 2 thumb screw will not meet on either side. Other times No. 3 or No. 4 thumb screws will not connect. At each trial the cockpit has been evenly spaced and longer thumb screws have been used. When perfectly dry both folboat and kyak assemble perfectly. In operation from a submarine it is absolutely essential that assembly and dismantling times be cut to a minimum. Therefore the addition of any quick fastening device for assembly with gunwhale, the cover etc. should be included, and the easiest assembly when wet provided.

BINOCULARS - The binoculars supplied are not waterproofed and were useless after initial transfer from one submarine to another when quite an amount of equipment became wet. A pair of binoculars were supplied from the submarine for the operation. A better quality binocular, waterproofed, should be supplied.

RADIO - The SCR 195 set proved most satisfactory. Ranges up to 9,000 yards strength 5 were tested prior to leaving Australia. The receiving antenna on the submarine being fixed to an antenna in the superstructure which should give reception to 15 miles. During the first transfer from one submarine to another one SCR set was wet, salt water getting onto the battery connection. This caused the battery to short badly and burned out the plug. This was replaced by a tube socket. This also happened on the return transfer proving that although the set be carried in its webbing case, it is impossible at present to keep the set waterproof. During the operation the complete set was carried in a rubber food bag, and although this was most inconvenient in handling proved successful in keeping set and battery dry. Some method of sealing around battery and over set with knobs protruding through waterproof openings should be supplied. The weight of the set should not be increased. It was necessary to wrap the base section of the antenna in rubber tape to insulate the antenna from the spray cover through which a hole had to be made to allow the antenna to be extended. This proved partly satisfactory. A technical solution should be supplied for this problem. The life of the batteries is not good, the 13½ volt cell appearing to drop much sooner than the other cells. It is therefore necessary to supply more spare batteries. These should be treated similarly to the ATR4 batteries if possible to insure against immersion.

— page 147 —
The cans containing the ATR4 sets were not waterproof, and each had from two to three inches of water in it when opened. These were not subject to complete immersion. These tins should be pressure tested prior to use to insure against a repetition of this nature.

RADAR - The life raft reflector radar screen supplied by U. S. Navy proved the most satisfactory screen yet used. The range tracked out was 8,500 yards and the range picked up was 7,500 yards. This performance is estimated as the maximum efficiency that will be achieved with this type of screen. Any improvements in range will need to be produced by a pulsing beam of some description. The height of the screen at present is at its maximum for efficiency and safety and the height of the Radar antenna is fixed. Therefore improvement from this direction is impossible.

During the operation it was not necessary to use the Radar screen although it was carried in case of emergency.

With this type of screen it is absolutely necessary to insure against corrosion by salt water by washing in fresh water after use and drying thoroughly.

EXPLOSIVES - Storage space aboard is most convenient, all explosives fitting comfortably in the magazine. In the case of special charges, devices, etc. these should be packed in a waterproof container to insure against immersion and salt water generally. All AC delays, pull switches, clamps, etc. have corroded, and although cleaned and dried carefully, may be reduced in efficiency, thus causing reasonable doubt as to their use. The M.L. flares and tvsules, wrapped in special tarred paper, were completely dry and show no sign of deterioration. A rubberized bag or waterproof (pressure tested) tin should be supplied. This tin should be of light alloy, as light as possible and approximately the size of an ATR4 wireless set tin. A tin is recommended because of its convenience in handling and stowing.

W. L. JINKINS,
Major.

— page 148 —
8 March 1945

From: Major W.L. JINKINS
To: Commander Task Force 71
Subject: Information gathered - reconnaissance

The attached is information gathered during reconnaissancelong.

The information of FATTLE IS. was gathered from ground reconnaissance, that of WOODY IS. from periscope and

This information has since been confirmed by JINKINS mission on both island on 8 March 1945 as a special guide when in target area.

This mission was a partial success, damage by bombs buildings from strafing.

It is considered by the Flight Leader and JINKINS that both RADIO STNS. will be inoperative for sometime, at least until repairs to whole installations can be made.

If possible it would be appreciated if following intel may be forwarded to SRD.

(Sgd W.L. Jinkins
Major)

— page 149 —
2 March 1945

INSTALLATIONS.  FATTLE ISLAND

One large building (Resembling large aircraft hangar). Possible residency or Adm. Bldg. -

2 large radio masts 110' high (square girder type). One large house (8 rooms at least). One radio house. One large white shed (resembled 3 car garage). One small white bldg.) Poss. sleeping qtrs One white hut. One tin shed One boat house (with possible landing barge) One Fylon light - light house - 2 radio masts 50 - 60' high

It is considered possible by Major JINKINS and CAPTAIN BELL of USS PARGO judging by the size of installation and also signal strength of CW picked up in this vicinity, that FATTLE IS. may be or is being used as a Monitoring Stn. causing jamming and false receipt for sub frequencies and messages.

— page 150 —
16 JUN 1945
FIRST ENDORSEMENT on:
ComSub7thFlt, secret
ltr., serial 00160 of
17 April 1945.

From: Commander Seventh Fleet.
To: Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: Special Mission performed by U.S.S. PARGO (SS264), 4 to 6 February, 1945, additional data on.

1. Forwarded.
2. The Commander Seventh Fleet congratulates the PARGO for the successful completion of a special mission.

Copy to:
ComSub7thFlt
CO, USS PARGO

TWO. S. COMMO
Chief of Staff

— page 152 —
2 March 1945

WOODY ISLAND -

Settlement runs parallel with beach, extending 200 yards from shore in two groups and supplied with electric power. One group at base of jetty which is approximately 400 feet long. The jetty has collapsed and is unserviceable at edge of reef. Eight store sheds, 80 to 100 feet long 30-to 40 feet wide, on the North side of track in line with the jetty.

On South side of track one large three storey tower (grey) with weather indicator on top (wind vane and speed indicator). Six huts including one house apparently sleeping quarters. Three medium store sheds, 50 x 20 feet. Eight 25 feet long fishing boats apparently unserviceable. Two radio masts, 60 - 70 feet high.

Second group centred around a large building with a white tower (possibly Church or Adm Building). A French Tricolour was hoisted at 1045 hrs 4 Feb 45, flown all day. Not hoisted again until fired upon 6 Feb 45. Four white bungalows with adjacent sheds, size of garage. Three sheds possibly light supply sheds. Three tin sheds.

Several beached boats possible Motor Launch - all apparently serviceable.

All buildings appeared in good state of repair. Appearances of being a fishing centre with provisions for storing or canning fish in sheds. Apparently being used as weather station at present.

Approach very difficult during present season from nonsoonal direction. Approach from leeward possible. Surf over edge of reef during calm sea, waves 3 feet to 6 feet high on receding tide, during rough sea, breakers over edge of reef, 12 feet and upwards.

Chart appears true for Southern Water approaches.

— page 153 —
3 1769

COMMANDER SUBMARINE FORCE
UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET
ADMINISTRATION

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS PARGO (secret list).
file SS264/A16-3 serial 001
of 10 February 1945.

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

Subject: Special Mission Performed by U.S.S. PARGO (SS264), 4 to 6 February 1945, during Seventh War Patrol.

1. The basic report is forwarded herewith less enclosures (B) and (C), which have been retained in the files of the Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

2. The smart, aggressive manner in which this special mission was carried out is typical of the PARGO, and adds more damage to the enemy during her seventh war patrol during which she sank a large tanker, a large destroyer, and a large destroyer or light cruiser. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, again congratulates the commanding officer, officers, and crew of the PARGO for this highly successful patrol.

Copy to:

Cincpac (including basic report)
less enclosures (B) and (C),
Comsubs7thflt (this endorsement only).
ComSubRon 12 (" " " ").
CO USS PARGO (" " " ").

— page 154 —
59/71
A/6-3(2)

Serial 00/60
SEABEET

From: The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: 1. The Commander, SEVENTH FLEET.
       2. The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: Special Mission performed by U.S.S. PARGO (SS264), 4 to 6 February, 1945, additional data on.

Enclosures: (A) Major W. L. JINKINS letter with addenda A and B.
        (B) Major W. L. JINKINS letter dated 8 March.
        (C) Copy of U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) Secret Ltr. A16-3, Serial 001, dated 10 February, 1945.

1. During her Seventh War Patrol, on 4, 5 and 6 February, PARGO successfully performed an assigned Special Mission on WOODY ISLAND, PARACEL GROUP. Upon returning to this area, Major JINKINS, AIF, submitted certain detailed reports concerning his personal observations and actions which are herewith appended and forwarded.

ELIOT H. BRYANT,
Chief of Staff.

DISTRIBUTION:
Vice CNO (1)
Com7thFlt (1)
ComSubPac (1)
CO, USS PARGO (1)
AIB, WESTERN COMMAND (1)
File (1) - INTELLIGENCE SECTION FILE.

J. B. MILLER,
Flag Secretary.

— page 155 —
55204/16-3
: Serial 001
DECLASSIFIED

From: The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. PARGO (SS264).
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (Official Channels).

Subject: U.S.S. PARGO, Top Secret Report of Firing Mark 27 Torpedoes, Patrol No. 7.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.

1. Enclosure (A) is forwarded herewith.

D. B. BELL.

5 1826

— page 157 —
1. T-O-P  S-E-C-R-E-T
2. U.S.S. PARGO (SS264)  Mark 27 Torpedo Attack No. 1,  Patrol No. 7
3. Tube fired from  No. 7  Erratic  No.
4. Hit or miss  Miss - Screws continued to cross our stern and no attack
5. Mark torpedo  27  Serial No.  337-T
6. Mark warhead  27  Serial No.  -
7. Mark exploder  11-0  Serial No.  -
8. Arming distance set  100 yards
9. Issuing activity  Naval Torpedo Station, Subiaco, W.A.

— page 158 —
4 82
FF12-10(A)/A16-3 SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET ADMINISTRATION
Serial 00019
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
22 March 1945.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO, U.S.S. PARGO Top
Secret Ltr., SS264/AL6-3,
Serial 0001, dated
17 March 1945.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PARGO (SS264), Top Secret Report of Firing Mark 27 Torpedoes, Patrol No. 7.

Forwarded.

MERRILL COMSTOCK.

DISTRIBUTION:
Cominch (2)
CNO (2)
Cinopac (2)
Comsubspac (2)
Comsubspacadcom (2)
Comsubstrainpac (2)
Comsubslant (2)
Comsubs?thfleet (2)
All Squadron Commanders (1)
All Division Commanders (1)
BuOrd (2)
BuShips (2)
CO, USS PARGO (1 copy this endorsement only).

E. L. HYNES: 2nd,
Flag Secretary.

SECRET
4 82
A16-3 (16)
1945

— page 159 —
55204/16-3
Serial #1

DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. PATRICK (SS-264)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
17 March 1945.

From: The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. PATRICK (SS-264).
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (Official Channels).

Subject: U.S.S. PATRICK, Top Secret Report of Firing Mark 27 Torpedoes, Patrol No. 7.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.

1. Enclosure (A) is forwarded herewith.

D. B. BELL.

CONFIDENTIAL - OFWAV 1NST 55000
BY: [Signature]
DATE: 4-14-46

4 82

— page 160 —
1. T-O-P  S-E-C-R-E-T
2. U.S.S. PARGO (SS264)  Mark 27 Torpedo Attack No. 1,  Patrol No. 7
3. Time 1438  Date 2-10-45  Lat. 12°-51' N  Long. 109°-20' E
4. Sound conditions  Good  Depth of water 45 - 50 fathoms
5. Distance to nearest shore or reef 10,000 yards  Sea condition No swells,
6. 2 foot surface chop.  Excellent periscope weather.
7. Was it raining?  No
8. TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
9. Description  Three DE (frigate) type escorts searching for us after attack No. 3 in which one tanker was hit with 4 torpedoes.  Contacted by JP at 12,000 yards, daylight, good visibility.
10. Ships sunk or None.  Damaged:
11. Target Draft 5 Ft.  Course  ?  Speed  ?  Range  ?  (at firing)
12. Target turn count  High  Target bearing at firing instant  210 Rel.
13. Give any peculiarities noted in target's sound output  None
14. OWN SHIP DATA
15. Speed  4  Course  120  Depth  240  Angle  0  (at firing)
16. FIRE CONTROL & TORPEDO DATA
17. Was target aware of submarine's presence?  Yes
18. Was submarine being depth charged?  Had been bombed and about to be depth charged.
19. Type Attack  Furely defensive.  Three escorts with 3 aircraft were searching for us, two escorts pinging, one listening usually.  Sound reported escort bearing 210° relative was speeding up and coming in for attack on us.  Mark 27 had been made ready about 10 minutes before except for opening outer door.  So, when the decibel reading at JP was 10 and it seemed that the escort would "drop" in another 2 or 3 minutes, the outer door was opened and the torpedo released.

— page 161 —
1. T-O-P  S-E-C-R-E-T
2. U.S.S. PARGO (SS264)  Mark 27 Torpedo Attack No. 1,  Patrol No. 7
3. Tube fired from  No. 7  Erratic  No.
4. Hit or miss  Miss - Screws continued to cross our starboard and no attack developed and no explosions were heard.
5. Mark torpedo  27  Serial No.  337-T
6. Mark warhead  27  Serial No.  -
7. Mark exploder  11-0  Serial No.  -
8. Arming distance set  100 yards
9. Issuing activity  Naval Torpedo Station, Subiaco, W.A.

— page 162 —
5 1826
R.S. No. 2M-0614
Reg. No. 5 1826
R.S. No. 2M-0614

FF12-10(A)/A16-3
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
ADMINISTRATION

Serial 00019
TOP SECRET
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO, U.S.S. FARGO Top
Secret Itr. SS264/A16-3,
Serial 0001, dated
17 March 1945.

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

Subject: U.S.S. FARGO (SS264), Top Secret Report of Firing
Mark 27 Torpedoes, Patrol No. 7.

1. Forwarded.

MERRILL COMSTOCK.

DISTRIBUTION:
Cominch (2)
CNO (2)
Cincpac (2)
Consubspac (2)
Consubspacadcom (2)
Consubstrainpac (2)
Consubslant (2)
Consubs?thfleet (2)
All Squadron Commanders (1)
All Division Commanders (1)
BuOrd (2)
BuShips (2)
GO, USS FARGO (1 copy this endorsement only).

E. L. HYNES, 2nd,
Flag Secretary.

000540
25 MAY 1945

[Handwritten text: "Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet"]
[Handwritten text: "Forwarded"]

R. E. KEETON
B/ Direction

5 1826

— page 163 —
SS264/M-3
Serial 005

DECLASSIFIED
U. S. S. PARGO (SS-264)

CONFIDENTIAL - OPNAV INST 5500.30
BY: K
DATE: 10-4-60
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
SSP 9-1945

Reference:
The Commanding Officer.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject:
Special Transit Report, TSUSHIMA STRAIT, 8th War Patrol.

Reference:
(a) ConsubSap Secret Ltr. FP12-10/A4-3, Serial 00179, of 15 July 1945.

Enclosure:
(A) Track of entry through TSUSHIMA STRAIT.

1. The following information is submitted in accordance with reference (a):

(A) NAVIGATIONAL DATA:

(a) Starting Position Submerged: Lat. 34-19'N, Long. 128-44'E.
(b) Date - Time: Submerged at 0500(K), 6 August 1945.
(c) Course: 035° T.
(d) Speed: 60 rpm, 3.4 knots average over the ground.
(e) Depth-Angle: 140 feet with 4° rise angle.
(f) Position on Surfacing: Lat. 34-58'N, Long. 129-27'E.
(g) Time of Surfacing: 2130(K), 6 August.

(B) WEATHER DATA:

(a) Weather:
Start: S
Wind - 0
Sea - 0
Surface Haze: M
Clear Sky Overhead: E
(b) Current: Set - 016° T, Drift - .4 average.
(c) Sea Temperature: 73° F at surface.
(d) Gradient: 12° Negative at 120 feet.
(e) Sea Conditions: Zero throughout.

(C) MINE CONTACTS:

(a) Number of Contacts: 32
(b) Locations: 1- Lat. 34-28'N, Long. 128-52'E
2- Lat. 34-33'N, Long. 128-55'E
(c) Number of lines: 4

— page 164 —
SS-264/M-3
Serial 005
S-E-C-R-E-T
Subject: Special Transit Report, TSUSHIMA STRAIT, 5th War Patrol.

(d) Indications of depth: We were unable to make the mines fade and tracked them in to 75-100 feet; it is believed that the extreme gradient caused this condition. We scraped one cable in the north-north-west at 140 feet.

(e) Interval of lines: 600 yards.
(f) Spacing of mines: 60-70 yards.
(g) Direction of lines: 125° - 305° T.

(U) OIL PERFORMANCE:

(a) False Contacts: Numerous false contacts were encountered, but usually there was no doubt that they were false, especially after going through a real line where the tones and "blobs" were clear, strong, and positive. North of the last row encountered, we ran at 200 feet for awhile and picked up bottom noises; this depth is too deep for good detecting of mines.

(b) Maximum initial ranges: 700 yards.
Minimum initial ranges: 150 yards.
Average ranges: 300 yards.

(c) Previous Tests: Used a type 93 Japanese mine which was floating near us. The sea was more or less clear, and the submarine on the surface. Good indications were received at 250 yards; and, considering the circumstances of the test, it was considered that these results were completely satisfactory and that further tests with the triplane would not be necessary.

(d) Casualties: At 1415, the fibre disc in the universal coupling between the training motor and the projector shaft carried away. No spares were available; so the two halves of the coupling were bolted loosely together and the equipment put back in commission.

(5) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES:

At 1045, just north of the northern-most row encountered, a small vessel was tracked from port to starboard with a minimum range of 400 yards. The wake was first detected, and as the range closed the ship became distinct and separate from the leading edge of the wake.

— page 165 —
SS264/A4-3
Serial 005
S-E-C-R-E-T
Subject: Special Transit Report, TSUSHIMA STRAIT, 8th War Patrol.

(F) REMARKS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

(1) The two major faults found with the QLA are as follows:
   (a) The blobs are too large in proportion to the size of the
      FPI screen, making it difficult to distinguish the openings in a line of closely spaced mines.
   (b) The bearing, while sufficiently accurate for maneuvering around a single mine or a line of widely spaced mines, is not sufficiently accurate for passing through a line of closely spaced mines as encountered in TSUSHIMA. At times a mine closes to the bow would jump from one side to the other, making it extremely difficult to determine which way to maneuver.

(2) Make a stronger universal for training motor drive; the fibre disc tire away at a very critical time and was jury-rigged by bolting the two halves of the joint to gether loosely.

(3) The whip antenna is very satisfactory for communications; the wing antennas are not. We would rather have two centerline antennas, one forward and one aft, for long range communications. This could be accomplished easily, using short stub masts and gun stops which would require raising the gun barrels as they reached the centerline of the ship.

(4) Preparations for transit:
   (a) At sunset the night before transit, we tested QLA equipment using a Jap mine.
   (b) The bow cables were rigged; they were kept stowed in a line locker except when actually needed.
   (c) Additional antenna wires were rigged between wing antenna masts so that if an antenna insulator broke, mine cables would ride along these new wires until clear of the after antenna masts.
   (d) Obtained a radar fix on KO TO and maneuvered to dive at 0500 (sunrise at 0640) on our desired track line previously laid out on Bottom Sediment. Chart #3240.

(5) We were forced to use 10°-15° left rudder to maintain our course until about 1030 when the cross current suddenly stopped.

— page 166 —
SS264/44-3
Serial 005
S-E-C-R-E-T
Subject: Special Transit Report, TSUSHIMA STRAIT, 8th War Patrol.

(6) The Conning Officer used the Mk. I, Mod. O, Plastic Maneuvering Board with each space on the tri-axed side equal to 100 feet. This was of great assistance.

(7) Our organization was as follows:
   (a) The officers were divided into two teams of Conning Officer, Spotter, Plotter, and Diving Officer. The Spotter (over-the-shoulder observer) alternated hourly with the Diving Officer, and the two teams stood watch and watch for 2-hour periods.
   (b) Two enlisted men in each section were trained as operators, and they alternated one hour on and one off for their regular 4-hour watch period.

(8) No report of exiting from the Japanese Sea is submitted, because it was done through mine-swept waters after hostilities had ceased.

D. B. BELL.

— page 167 —
SS264/A16-3
Serial 003

:  U.S.S. PARGO (SS264)
From:  The Commanding Officer.
To:  The Commander Training Command, Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject:  U.S.S. PARGO (SS264) - Report of use of decoy beacons during Eighth War Patrol.

Enclosure:  (A) Subject report.

1. Enclosure (A), covering use of decoy beacons during the Eighth War Patrol of this vessel, is forwarded herewith.

Signed:  [Signature]
By:  [Signature]

— page 172 —
6 February 1945
from: CONDUCTOR: USS ST. LAWRENCE (SS-246)
to: SUBJECT: TORPEDO TUBE
from: SUBJECT: TORPEDO TUBE
to: SUBJECT: TORPEDO TUBE

— page 189 —
1. USS PARAGON
   - QUARTER OF MINE PLAN
   - 14 SEPT. 1944
   - ENCLOSURE B

: 2. SCREW
   - 2
   - 1/2
   - 1/4
   - 1/8
   - 1/16
   - 1/32
   - 1/64
   - 1/128
   - 1/256
   - 1/512
   - 1/1024
   - 1/2048
   - 1/4096
   - 1/8192
   - 1/16384
   - 1/32768
   - 1/65536
   - 1/131072
   - 1/262144
   - 1/524288
   - 1/1048576
   - 1/2097152
   - 1/4194304
   - 1/8388608
   - 1/16777216
   - 1/33554432
   - 1/67108864
   - 1/134217728
   - 1/268435456
   - 1/536870912
   - 1/1073741824
   - 1/2147483648
   - 1/4294967296
   - 1/8589934592
   - 1/17179869184
   - 1/34359738368
   - 1/68719476736
   - 1/137438953472
   - 1/274877906944
   - 1/549755813888
   - 1/1099511627776
   - 1/2199023255552
   - 1/4398046511104
   - 1/8796093022208
   - 1/17592186044416
   - 1/35184372088832
   - 1/70368744177664
   - 1/140737488355328
   - 1/281474976710656
   - 1/562949953421312
   - 1/1125899906842624
   - 1/2251799803685248
   - 1/4503599627370496
   - 1/9007199254740984
   - 1/18014398509481968
   - 1/36028797018963936
   - 1/72057594037927872
   - 1/144115188075855744
   - 1/288230376151711488
   - 1/576460752303422976
   - 1/1152921504606845952
   - 1/2305843009213691904
   - 1/4611686018427383808
   - 1/922337203684

— page 191 —
1. The following is a copy of the patrol report of the USS WILSON (SS-218) from the 5th Fleet, 1st Division, 1st Fleet, 1

— page 198 —
1. USS PIRRO (SS-264)
   - 1/6th Division
   - 1st Torpedo Squadron
   - 1st Torpedo Boat Division
   - 1st Torpedo Boat Squadron
   - 1st Torpedo Boat Division
   - 1st Torped

— page 209 —
1. Transcribe, complete:
   - Add W/T for W/T, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st, 32nd, 33rd, 34th, 35th, 36th, 37th, 38th, 39th, 40th, 41st, 42nd, 43rd, 44th, 45th, 46th, 47th, 48th, 49th, 50th, 51st, 52nd, 53rd, 54th, 55th, 56th, 57th, 58th, 59th, 60th, 61st, 62nd, 63rd, 64th, 65th, 66th, 67th, 68th, 69th, 70th, 71st, 72nd, 73rd, 74th, 75th, 76th, 77th, 78th, 79th, 80th, 81st, 82nd, 83rd, 84th, 85th, 86th, 87th, 88th, 89th, 90th, 91st, 92nd, 93rd, 94th, 95th, 96th, 97th, 98th, 99th, 100th, 101st, 102nd, 103rd, 104th, 105th, 106th, 107th, 108th, 109th, 110th, 111th, 112th, 113th, 114th, 115th, 116th, 117th, 118th, 119th, 120th, 121st, 122nd, 123rd, 124th, 125th, 126th, 127th, 128th, 129th, 130th, 131st, 132nd, 133rd, 134th, 135th, 136th, 137th, 138th, 139th, 140th, 141st, 142nd, 143rd, 144th, 145th, 146th, 147th, 148th, 149th, 150th, 151st, 152nd, 153rd, 154th, 155th, 156th, 157th, 158th, 159th, 160th, 161st, 162nd, 163rd, 164th, 165th, 166th, 167th, 168th, 169th, 170th, 171st, 172nd, 173rd, 174th, 175th, 176th, 177th, 178th, 179th, 180th, 181st, 182nd, 183rd, 184th, 185th, 186th, 187th, 188th, 189th, 190th, 191st, 192nd, 193rd, 194th, 195th, 196th, 197th, 198th, 199th, 200th, 201st, 202nd, 203rd, 204th, 205th, 206th, 207th, 208th, 209th, 210th, 211st, 212nd, 213rd, 214th, 215th, 216th, 217th, 218th, 219th, 220th, 221st, 222nd, 223rd, 224th, 225th, 226th, 227th, 228th, 229th, 230th, 231st, 232nd, 233rd, 234th, 235th, 236th, 237th, 238th, 239th, 240th, 241st, 242nd, 243rd, 244th, 245th, 246th, 247th, 248th, 249th, 250th, 251st, 252nd, 253rd, 254th, 255th, 256th, 257th, 258th, 259th, 260th, 261st, 262nd, 263rd, 264th, 265th, 266th, 267th, 268th, 269th, 270th, 271st, 272nd, 273rd, 274th, 275th, 276th, 277th, 278th, 279th, 280th, 281st, 282nd, 283rd, 284th, 285th, 286th, 287th, 288th, 289th, 290th, 291st, 292nd, 293rd, 294th, 295th, 296th, 297th, 298th, 299th, 300th, 301st, 302nd, 303rd, 304th, 305th, 306th, 307th, 308th, 309th, 310th, 311st, 312th, 313th, 314th, 315th, 316th, 317th, 318th, 319th, 320th, 321st, 322nd, 323rd, 324th, 325th, 326th, 327th, 328th, 329th, 330th, 331st, 332nd, 333rd, 334th, 335th, 336th, 337th, 338th, 339th, 340th, 341st, 342nd, 343th, 344th, 345th, 346th, 347th, 348th, 349th, 350th, 351st, 352nd, 353rd, 354th, 355th, 356th, 357th, 358th, 359th, 360th, 361st, 362nd, 363th, 364th, 365th, 366th, 367th, 368th, 369th, 370th, 371st, 372th, 373th, 374th, 375th, 376th, 377th, 378th, 379th, 380th, 381st, 382nd, 383th, 384th, 385th, 386th, 387th, 388th, 389th, 390th, 391st, 392nd, 393rd, 394th, 395th, 396th, 397th, 398th, 399th, 400th, 401st, 402nd, 403rd, 404th, 405th, 406th, 407th, 408th, 409th, 410th, 411st, 412th, 413th, 414th, 415th, 416th, 417th, 418th, 419th, 420th, 421st, 422nd, 423rd, 424th, 425th, 426th, 427th, 428th, 429th, 430th, 431st, 432nd, 433th, 434th, 435th, 436th, 437th, 438th, 439th, 440th, 441st, 442nd, 443th, 444th, 445th, 446th, 447th, 448th, 449th, 450th, 451st, 452nd, 453th, 454th, 455th, 456th, 457th, 458th, 459th, 460th, 461st, 462nd, 463th, 464th, 465th, 466th, 467th, 468th, 469th, 470th, 471st, 472th, 473th, 474th, 475th, 476th, 477th, 478th, 479th, 480th, 481st, 482nd, 483th, 484th, 485th, 486th, 487th, 488th, 489th, 490th, 491st, 492nd, 493th, 494th, 495th, 496th, 497th, 498th, 499th, 500th, 501st, 502nd, 503rd, 504th, 505th, 506th, 507th, 508th, 509th, 510th, 511st, 512th, 513th, 514th, 515th, 516th, 517th, 518th, 519th, 520th, 521st, 522nd, 523th, 524th, 525th, 526th, 527th, 528th, 529th, 530th, 531st, 532nd, 533th, 534th, 535th, 536th, 537th, 538th, 539th, 540th, 541st, 542nd, 543th, 544th, 545th, 546th, 547th, 548th, 549th, 550th, 551st, 552nd, 553th, 554th, 555th, 556th, 557th, 558th, 559th, 560th, 561st, 562nd, 563th, 564th, 565th, 566th, 567th, 568th, 569th, 570th, 571st, 572nd, 573th, 574th, 575th, 576th, 577th, 578th, 579th, 580th, 581st, 582nd, 583th, 584th, 585th, 586th, 587th, 588th, 589th, 590th, 591st, 592nd, 593th, 594th, 595th, 596th, 597th, 598th, 599th, 600th, 601st, 602nd, 603rd, 604th, 605th, 606th, 607th, 608th, 609th, 610th, 611st, 612nd, 613th, 614th, 615th, 616th, 617th, 618th, 619th, 620th, 621st, 622nd, 623th, 624th, 625th, 626th, 627th, 628th, 629th, 630th, 631st, 632nd, 633th, 634th, 635th, 636th, 637th, 638th, 639th, 640th, 641st, 642nd, 643th, 644th, 645th, 646th, 647th, 648th, 649th, 650th, 651st, 652nd, 653th, 654th, 655th, 656th, 657th, 658th, 659th, 660th, 661st, 662nd, 663th, 664th, 665th, 666th, 667th, 668th, 669th, 670th, 671st, 672nd, 673th, 674th, 675th, 676th, 677th, 678th, 679th, 680th, 681st, 682nd, 683th, 684th, 685th, 686th, 687th, 688th, 689th, 690th, 691st, 692nd, 693th, 694th, 695th, 696th, 697th, 698th, 699th, 700th, 701st, 702nd, 703th, 704th, 705th, 706th, 707th, 708th, 709th, 710th, 711st, 712th, 713th, 714th, 715th, 716th, 717th, 718th, 719th, 720th, 721st, 722nd, 723th, 724th, 725th, 726th, 727th, 728th, 729th, 730th, 731st, 732nd, 733th, 734th, 735th, 736th, 737th, 738th, 739th, 740th, 741st, 742nd, 743th, 744th, 745th, 746th, 747th, 748th, 749th, 750th, 751st, 752nd, 753th, 754th, 755th, 756th, 757th, 758th, 759th, 760th, 761st, 762nd, 763th, 764th, 765th, 766th, 767th, 768th, 769th, 770th, 771st, 772nd, 773th, 774th, 775th, 776th, 777th, 778th, 779th, 780th, 781st, 782nd, 783th, 784th, 785th, 786th, 787th, 788th, 789th, 790th, 791st, 792nd, 793th, 794th, 795th, 796th, 797th, 798th, 799th, 800th, 801st, 802nd, 803rd, 804th, 805th, 806th, 807th, 808th, 809th, 810th, 811st, 812nd, 813th, 814th, 815th, 816th, 817th, 818th, 819th, 820th, 821st, 822nd, 823th, 824th, 825th, 826th, 827th, 828th, 829th, 830th, 831st, 832nd, 833th, 834th, 835th, 836th, 837th, 838th, 839th, 840th, 841st, 842nd, 843th, 844th, 845th, 846th, 847th, 848th, 849th, 850th, 851st, 852nd, 853th, 854th, 855th, 856th, 857th, 858th, 859th, 860th, 861st, 862nd, 863th, 864th, 865th, 866th, 867th, 868th, 869th, 870th, 871st, 872nd, 873th, 874th, 875th, 876th, 877th, 878th, 879th, 880th, 881st, 882nd, 883th, 884th, 885th, 886th, 887th, 888th, 889th, 890th, 891st, 892nd, 893th, 894th, 895th, 896th, 897th, 898th, 899th, 900th, 901st, 902nd, 903rd, 904th, 905th, 906th, 907th, 908th, 909th, 910th, 911st, 912nd, 913th, 914th, 915th, 916th, 917th, 918th, 919th, 920th, 921st, 922nd, 923th, 924th, 925th, 926th, 927th, 928th, 929th, 930th, 931st, 932nd, 933th, 934th, 935th, 936th, 937th, 938th, 939th, 940th, 941st, 942nd, 943th, 944th, 945th, 946th, 947th, 948th, 949th, 950th, 951st, 952nd, 953th, 954th, 955th, 956th, 957th, 958th, 959th, 960th, 961st, 962nd, 963th, 964th, 965th, 966th, 967th, 968th, 969th, 970th, 971st, 972nd, 973th, 974th, 975th, 976th, 977th, 978th, 979th, 980th, 981st, 982nd, 983th, 984th, 985th, 986th, 987th, 988th, 989th, 990th, 991st, 992nd, 993th, 994th, 995th, 996th, 997th, 998th, 999th, 1000th, 1001st, 1002nd, 1003rd, 1004th, 1005th, 1006th, 1007th, 1008th, 1009th, 1010th, 1011st, 1012nd, 1013rd, 1014th, 1015th, 1016th