U.S.S. RUNNER (SS-275) — war patrol report SS-275_RUNNER.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: F-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-89-78]

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OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: HANCOCK]

DATE [HANDWRITTEN: MAY 19 1978]

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO–NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

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[HANDWRITTEN: RUNNER (SS-275)]
[HANDWRITTEN: RUNNER (SS-476)]

[HANDWRITTEN: WORLD WAR II PATROL FILES]

[HANDWRITTEN: FOR DECK LOGS OF THESE TWO SUBMARINES 1942-1945]
[HANDWRITTEN: CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES WHICH HAS CUSTODY.]

[HANDWRITTEN: ALL MATERIAL ON THIS REEL IS DECLASSIFIED.]

[HANDWRITTEN: J.A. KOONTZ]

— page 3 —
Office of Naval Records and History
Ships' Histories Section
Navy Department

HISTORY OF USS RUNNER (SS 275)

The USS RUNNER, 1525-ton submarine, was lost with all hands during
her third war patrol only six months after she reported to the Pacific
combat area.

The newly-constructed vessel had compiled an impressive record in
her first two war patrols, sinking or damaging a total of 38,841 tons
of enemy shipping.

On January 10, 1943, the RUNNER arrived at Pearl Harbor for the
first time. She departed on her first war patrol eight days later,
setting her course for Midway.

Attacking with skill and aggressiveness, the RUNNER accounted for
a sizable amount of devastation in her first patrol. She sank three
freighters which totaled 19,815 tons, and damaged two others which
amounted to 14,189 tons.

In her last attack, the RUNNER had just fired at a large freighter
off Palau Island when an aerial bomb exploded nearby, shaking her con-
siderable. The concussion knocked out the submarine's sound gear and
destroyed the power supply to both periscope hoists. However, the
crew effected emergency repairs and the boat was able to return safely
to Pearl Harbor where the damaged gear was overhauled.

The second war patrol started on April 1. Its primary purpose
was to lay a 32-mine plant in a heavily guarded Japanese area. Moving
through the heavy screens of patrol vessels, the RUNNER successfully
planted the 32 mines off Pedro Blanco Rock and fled from the area
without serious trouble.

Due to the heavy load, only eight torpedoes were carried for this
patrol; however, the RUNNER set out for the Mainan Strait to expend
her "fish".

Her first attack was delivered at a Jap steamship but the two
spreads of three and two torpedoes respectively missed. A second attack
was more successful. Two torpedoes were fired from the bow tubes at
a Jap freighter but they missed. The final torpedo, located in the
stern tubes, was also loosed and it scored the only hit of the patrol,
damaging a 4,837 ton freighter. Soon after the torpedo exploded, the
vessel's screws stopped and crackling and grinding noises were heard
over the sound gear.

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- 2 - USS RUNNER (SS 275)

On May 27, 1943, the RUNNER left Midway for her third war patrol
which was to be conducted in the Kurile Island chain, northern Japan.
No report was received from her since her departure. She was presumed
lost that summer. No trace of her crew of 8 officers and 70 enlisted
men has ever been found.

The RUNNER was built in the Portsmouth Navy Yard, Portsmouth,
New Hampshire, and launched on May 30, 1942, by Mrs. John N. Newton,
wife of Rear Admiral Newton, USN.

The submarine measured 312 feet in length; 27 feet, in beam; and
had a surface speed of 20 knots.

The RUNNER earned one battle star on the Asiatic-Pacific Area
Service Ribbon for her Pacific war patrol of the period April 1 to
May 6, 1943.

* * * * *

Stencilled July 1946
Restencilled April 1951

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[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]

FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(12) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0345
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

                                                                c
                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                San Francisco, California,
                                                March 14, 1943.

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 151:
U.S.S. RUNNER - FIRST WAR PATROL.

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

Subject:    U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol.

Enclosure:  (A) Copy of Subject War Patrol.
            (B) CSD 141 FF5-1/A9/A16 Serial 0100
                of March 8, 1943 1st endorsement to
                U.S.S. RUNNER first patrol report.
            (C) Comsubron FOUR FF5-4/A16-3 Serial 045
                of March 9, 1943 2nd endorsement to
                U.S.S. RUNNER first patrol report.

            1. This was the first war patrol of the U.S.S. RUNNER but
the fourth war patrol for her Commanding Officer. This patrol was carried
out in an aggressive and competent manner.

            2. The chase and subsequent attack of a convoy on February 9
was especially well carried out. The RUNNER, unable to close a convoy
while making a daylight submerged periscope attack, surfaced and used
the SJ Radar for about seven and one-half hours to track and ultimately
successfully attack the convoy.

            3. In the attack on the convoy on February 19, the Commanding
Officer displayed exceptional coolness in that he continued a successful
attack although suffering severe damage from a near bomb miss. The effic-
ient functioning of the RUNNER'S organization reflects credit upon the
training of the ship and enabled her to maintain proper depth control
though leaking badly. The outstanding performance by the Diving Officer
in this case is highly commendable.

            4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, takes great
pleasure in commending the Commanding Officer, Officers, and crew of the
RUNNER on an outstanding first war patrol.

            5. The RUNNER is credited with inflicting the following dam-
age on the enemy:
DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-096C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72] Sunk
            1 Freighter (YAMABIKO MARU Class) - 6,799 tons
            1 Freighter (CHICAGO MARU Class) - 5,866 tons
            1 Freighter (NAGARA MARU Class) - 7,150 tons
                                        TOTAL 19,815 tons
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]

                                        - 1 -

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FF12-10/A16-3(12) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0345
CONFIDENTILL
COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO.151
U.S.S. RUNNER FIRST WAR PATROL.
Subject:
Hz
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
March 14, 1943.
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) Report of First War Patrol.
DAMAGED
1 Freighter (YAMABIKO MARU Class)- - 6,799 tons
1 Freighter (KAGI M.RU Class)-7.390 tons
TOTAL 14,189 tons
The freighters attacked on February 2 and 19 respectively were very prob-
ably sunk, but because of anti-submarine tactics by the enemy, evidence
was insufficient to credit sinkings.

DISTRIBUTION
(IM-43)
List III, SS
Special:
P1(5), EN3(5), Z1(5),
Comsublant (2), X3(1),
Comsubsowospac (2),
Subschool NL (2),
Contaskfor 42 (2),
Comsubron 50 (2).
[SIGNATURE: E R Swinburne]
E. R. SWINBURNE,
Flag Secretary.
-2-
C.A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

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ld
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War
Patrol. Period from 18 January 1943 to 7 March
1943. Operation Order

PROLOGUE
Arrived Pearl from Panama on 10 January 1943. Five
days availability for ships work and three days training. Fired
six exercise torpedoes. Ship depermed and completed installation
of power train for SJ Radar.

I.
NARRATIVE

18 Jan. Departed Pearl 1340 (VW) for Midway in company with
U.S.S. LITCHFIELD. Fired 3 inch and 20 MM guns at
target streamed by escort.

22 Jan. 0902(Y) Moored Midway. Fueled to capacity and re-
placed gyro compass sensitive element. 1250(Y)
left Midway in middle of air raid alarm, and headed
for assigned area.

23-24 Jan. Crossed Date Line.

26-28 Jan. Very heavy head seas. Slowed to 5 knots at times.
One heavy sea came over the bridge and washed one
lookout off the lookout platform. He landed on the
cigarette deck suffering only minor injuries. Another
sea knocked the Officer-of-the-Deck into the lookout
platform cutting his head and putting him off the
watch list for four days.

29 Jan. 0027(L) Changed course for Area ____ in accordance with
instructions received.

1 Feb. Sighted fishing or patrol boat distant 6 miles.
(Contact #1). Dove and made submerged approach. This
was a small fishing boat or sub chaser, about 60 feet
long, apparently patrolling between Marianas and
Bonins. When range closed to 3000 yards decided she
was too small for torpedo.

2 Feb. 0634(K) Patrolling on surface across track of shipping
in Area ____. 0934(K) Sighted ship. (Contact #2).
Dove and commenced submerged attack. When range
closed sufficiently a second ship was sighted astern
of the first. Both ships were single stack freighters
with kingposts forward and aft, of Yamabiko Maru class.

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1d
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

for submarines (Contact #3). We believed larger ships
might be following them out so commenced approach. Both
vessels were making about five knots, stopping occasion-
ally and steering various courses within 90 degrees of
270. No echo ranging was heard. Leading vessel was
flying signal flags. Both vessels smoked continuously.
After an hour leading vessel appeared to hear us
because the angle on the bow stayed around zero and she
closed slowly. Later events indicate she may have
slipped off the planes. 1241(I) The first of 6 depth
charges or aerial bombs were heard fairly close astern.
Sound could hear no screws and periscope ob-
servations revealed nothing. The water here is ideal
for planes to spot submarines. Being in the lee of
the island, the water is calm, light blue and glassy
smooth. Each time a depth charge or bomb was heard
no screws could be picked up. One bomb was dropped
fairly close while the Commanding Officer had the per-
iscope up trying to find out who the bombs or depth
charges were meant for. 1300(I) A small sampan was
sighted astern at about 1000 yards and heading out to
sea. On surfacing a serious oil leak was discovered
in the stern plane tilting hydraulic pump. It appeared
that to make repairs it would be necessary to put the
stern planes out of commission, so it was decided to
retire to northwest corner of area to accomplish the
work. The leak was in the gasket between the pump
body and valve plate of the Waterbury A end, and
threatened to drain all our hydraulic oil out of the
system. A similar casualty was experienced some
months ago with the steering Waterbury speed gear.

7 Feb. Patrolling submerged in northwest corner of area,
repairing stern plane pump and routining torpedoes.
0028(I) Patrolling on surface and had contact on SJ
Radar. Pip turned out to be rain squall. 2315(I)
altered course to clear area.

9 Feb. 0550(I) Patrolling on surface. 0715(I) Sighted smoke
on horizon and dove to conduct submerged approach.
(Contact #4). Smoke turned out to be two freighters
of CHICAGO MARU class, (5900 tons and coal burners),
steaming in column. Second ship was about 3000 yards
astern of first. No escort was seen at this time. We
were not able to close track to less than 6000 yards
so it was decided to surface, run ahead and intercept
after dark. While ships were in sight we tracked them

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CONFIDENTIAL                                                              1d
Subject:                                U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol.

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ld
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol.

14 Feb. echo ranging was heard during the afternoon. At one
time the engine room reported a distant explosion.
Sound did not hear this but immediately afterward
picked up echo ranging. Probably a false contact.

Patrolling submerged off Toagel Mlungui Passage,
Palau. 1303(I) Sighted steamer standing into the
passage. (Contact #6). No escort in sight. This
ship was later identified as a NAGARA MARU class
freighter of 7150 tons. Commenced submerged approach.
1341(I) Fired 3 bow tubes and 22 seconds after firing
the first a sharp torpedo explosion was heard. Eight
seconds later the second torpedo hit. Sound reported
that targets screws had stopped but picked up the fast
screws of an escort on another bearing. Two observa-
tions after about 30 seconds revealed the target to
be sinking with main deck awash. Went deep, leveling
at 250 feet and headed out to sea. 1348 to 1351(I)
4 explosions heard fairly close. Believed to be bombs
or depth charges from a plane. Each bomb was followed
by the rush of water through the superstructure. Dif-
ferent parts of the ship reported these on varying
bearings but all thought they were below us. No fur-
ther anti-submarine measures.

15 Feb. Patrolling submerged off Toagel Mlungui Passage.
No signs of the usual sound patrol leads us to believe
that yesterday's torpedoing convinced the Japs to
reroute the shipping through another passage. Rain
all day; visibility very low.

16 Feb. Patrolling submerged off Toagel Mlungui Passage,
Palau. Rain and low visibility today. No night fix.

17 Feb. Patrolling submerged off Toagel Mlungui Passage,
Palau. Today the weather is poor with much rain and
a good swell running. Visibility is so poor that
bearings or sights are impossible to obtain. 1420(I)
Sighted destroyer apparently proceeding to southwest
at 22 knots. (Contact #7). No echo ranging was heard.
Could not be seen through rain squall until after
sound contact. Range at sighting was 5500 yards and
increasing. We believed she might be proceeding a
larger ship and closed her track but nothing further
developed.

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14
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol.

19 Feb. rolling submerged off Toagel Mlungui Passa
Paiu. 1038(I) Heard echo ranging and headed
1045(I) Echo ranging could be heard from two d
ships on the same general bearing. 1107(I) S
boats on same general bearing as echo ranging
commenced approach. (Contact #8) When range
sufficiently two freighters were seen heading
to pass from the south on about 050 true. O
troyer was sighted but the other escort which
been picked up on sound was not seen. When t
was about five miles from the pass, the destr
reversed course to the southwest, leaving the
ters to head around to the east and enter the
zone. This change of course made the distan
the freighter's track so great that there was
sibility of making an attack. We shifted to
troyer and tried to close her track but her co
took her well clear of us. Distant echo rang
will be heard until 1145(I). We then headed
toward the entrance in the hope that another
would come along. 1255(I) Picked up echo ran
two ships. 1257(I) Sighted two destroyers and after
some tracking discovered that they were sweeping back
and forth along a line running southwest from the
entrance. (Contact #9). We steered to close the
destroyers which seemed to be running an anti-subma
rine search along the path of a probable convoy. We
decided to intercept the destroyers at the southwest
end of their patrol line and commenced the approach
trying to keep our bow towards them to reduce the
target for echo ranging. 1440(I) The masts of a
freighter were seen standing out of the pass and we
altered course to attack her. When range closed it
was seen that this was a convoy made up of two
freighters together, more or less abeam of each other
with one destroyer on each flank. A zig zag de ad
ahead of the convoy at about 2000 yards range. The
right hand destroyer was then heard to speed up to
200 turns. 1455(I) Fired the four stern tubes at the
destroyer at a range of 1400 yards, using a two degree
divergent spread. (Attack #6). No hits were heard
and it is believed the destroyer saw the torpedo wakes
in the smooth water and had time enough to avoid.
Shortly after firing sound reported this destroyer had
stopped. He was later observed to parallel the tor
pedoes and head down the tracks. We then shifted to

- 7 - ENCLOSURE (A)

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1d

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol.

the left hand freighter and lined her up for the bow
tubes. This freighter was seen to be a single
stacker with kingposts and similar to AKAGI MARU of
7900 tons. At 1456(I) fired one torpedo at her, at
600 yards range and a sharp track. (Attack #7). Im-
mediately afterwards an aerial bomb exploded very
close along the port side shaking ship severely and
giving her a quick snap roll, first to starboard and
then to port, which threw most people off their feet.
Fired #2 and #3 tubes using at 8 second firing inter-
val and a 2 degree divergent spread. After about
thirty seconds a torpedo hit was definitely heard on
the freighter. Some people claim to have heard two.
Sound gear, bow plane power and both periscope hoist
motors were reported out. Went to 200 feet and began
evasive tactics. Later six depth charges were heard,
all well astern. Both destroyers had been observed
to turn away from the convoy when the first torpedoes
were fired.

The following damage of immediate importance resulted
from the near miss in the vicinity of the conning tower:
1. Lights including emergency lights in the conning
   tower and adjacent compartments were knocked out.
2. Loss of power control of planes.
3. Hull opening indicator lights gave false readings.
4. Both periscopes flooded and hoists inoperative.
5. Sound gear out of commission.
6. Gyro and magnetic compass out of commission.
7. Severe leaks around binnacle tube in conning
   tower and conning tower door.
8. Full voltage ground.
9. Loss of power to trim and drain pumps in particu-
   lar, hydraulic pump, and other auxiliaries.
10. Low pressure air valve to #1 MBT opened at
    low pressure manifold to flood.
11. All depth gages, meters and instruments in vicinity
    jarred out of adjustment.
12. Loose gear and fittings rigidly attached to the
    hull became missiles.
13. Numerous topside cables ruptured. Had not the
    firing circuit cables been ruptured by previous
    depth charging they most certainly would have in
    this instance, thereby firing any tubes that
    were ready.

- 8 - ENCLOSURE (A)

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14

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol.

14. Topside electrical equipment including gyro
    repeater, TBT transmitter, LMC speakers, diving
    alarm, collision alarm, searchlight, one antenna
    lead in insulator and antenna were completely
    smashed, flooded and out of commission.
15. Main and emergency vents of adjacent ballast tanks
    out of order.
16. Radar equipment out of adjustment.

20 Feb. Ran submerged during the day. By noon the mercury was
    restored in the master gyro which was restarted and
    put back in commission.
21-23 Feb. Ran submerged during the day until clear of Yap.
24 Feb. Commenced surface running.
2 March 1616(K) Sighted patrol plane and dove.
4 March Crossed Date Line.
7 March 0720(VW) Effected rendezvous with PC-587.
        1230(VW) Moored at Submarine Base, Pearl.

II. WEATHER
    Weather off Palau was frequently rainy. Prevailing wind
    was from the east, putting Toagel Mlungui Pass in a lee
    of the island. The water was usually calm and glassy
    making it easy to spot submarines from the air. Of
    two weeks spent off the island there were three days of
    very poor visibility, and sights were impossible. On
    one of these days we approached the reef until breakers
    could be heard on the sound gear.

    Enroute Midway to Area very heavy head seas were
    experienced which at times forced us to slow to five knots.

III. TIDAL INFORMATION
    Average current to the west of the island of Babelthuap
    set three four zero true at one point five knots. Close to
    the island this current was influenced by the tides making
    the current variable with an overall average setting
    north at about one knot.

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— page 17 —
SUMMARY OF SUBMARINE ATTACKS
RUNNER (SS275)
Fn

CONFIDENTIAL

| | (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) | (6) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attack | | | | | | |
| Date | 2-2-43 | 2-2-43 | 2-9-43 | 2-9-43 | 2-14-43 | 2-19-43 |
| Location (Lat.) | 20N | 20N | 10-10N | 10-10N | 7-31N | 7-35N |
| (Long.) | 142E | 142E | 133-50E | 133-50E | 134-21E | 134-25E |
| Torpedoes Fired on each Attack | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 |
| Hits | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Number Sunk (Tonnage) | 6798 | 6798 | 5800 | 0 | 7150 | 0 |
| Number Damaged or probably sunk | | | | | | |
| Type of Target | Freighter | Freighter | Freighter | DD | Freighter | DD |
| Range | 600 | 1400 | 600 night | 400 night | 600 | 1400 |
| Periscope Depth | 60 | 60 | 55 | 55 | 60 | 60 |
| Surface Night | | | | | | |
| Deep Submergence | | | | | | |
| Estimated Draft Target | 20 | 20 | 25 | 12 | 27 | 8 |
| Torpedo Depth Setting | 10 | 10 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 6 |
| Bow or Stern Shot | 1,2,3 bow | 4,6,5 bow | 8,9 stern | 10 stern | 1,2,3 bow | 7,8,9,10 stern |
| Track Angle | 80 port | 60 port | 80 port | 40 port | 116 port | 97 port |
| Gyro Angle | 25R-10R | 15 R | 20L | 50L | 5L | 190 |
| Estimated Target Speed | 9 | 9 | 8.5 | 10 | 13.5 | 20 |
| Firing Interval | 8 sec | 8 sec | 10 sec | | 8 sec | 8 sec |
| Spread - Amount And Kind | 2° div. | 12° div. | 2° div. | | 2° div | 2° div |
| Remarks: | | | | | | |

10(A) ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 18 —
SUMMARY OF SUBMARINE ATTACKS Hn
SHIP RUNNER

| (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) | (6)
Attack | 7 | | | | |
Date | 2-19-43 | | | | |
Location (Long.) | 7-35 N. | | | | |
| 134-25E. | | | | |
Torpedoes Fired | | | | | |
on each Attack | 3 | | | | |
Hits | | | | | |
Number | :1 or 2 | | | | |
Sunk (Tonnage) | | | | | |
Number Damaged | 0 | | | | |
or probably sunk | 7390 | | | | |
Type of | | | | | |
Target | :Freighter: | | | | |
Range | 600 | | | | |
Periscope Depth | 60 | | | | |
Surface Night | | | | | |
Deep Submergence | | | | | |
Estimated | | | | | |
Draft Target | 25 | | | | |
Torpedo Depth | | | | | |
Setting | 15 | | | | |
Bow or Stern Shot | bow | | | | |
Track Angle | 22S | | | | |
Gyro Angle | 312 | | | | |
Estimated Target Speed | 10 | | | | |
Firing Interval | 8 | | | | |
Spread - Amount | | | | | |
and Kind | 2o div. | | | | |

- 10(b) - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 19 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol,
VIII ENEMY ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES

ld

All the ships we attacked except a single one close to the
beach on February 14, 1943 were escorted by two or more
destroyers or escort craft. Echo ranging was usually used
by the destroyers. They did not seem to pick us up till
the range was inside 2,500 yards. The first few days off
Toagel Mlungui a listening patrol was run by two mine-
sweepers or small auxiliaries of about 600 tons. They ran
at five knots or less and did not echo range. When we
were bombed with these ships in the immediate vicinity we
believed they might be directing aircraft. The leader of
the two flew signal flags. Both smoked continuously and
may have been decoys for the planes. These two slow ships
were apparently replaced by destroyers after we torpedoed
the first freighter off the harbor. The destroyers pa-
trolled along a southwest line from the pass when awaiting
an outgoing convoy. When the freighters left the pass,
the destroyer escorting two incoming ships left its convoy
five miles from the pass and reversed course to the south-
west. The freighters then entered the pass unescorted.
All attacks against escorted convoys resulted in six to
twelve patterns of depth charges within a few minutes
after torpedoing. In only one case, when we sank both
ships of the convoy did depth charging continue more than
one-half hour. In that case about 50 were dropped over an
hour and a half. Searching, including echo ranging and
listening, continued for three hours in the immediate
vicinity. Destroyers escorting a convoy seemed to run
down the torpedo tracks, unload, and then stay with the
convoy rather than chase off after the submarine.

On three occasions we were bombed by planes, once when
observing the five knot patrol vessels, again after tor-
pedoing the single freighter on 14 February, and a third
time while attacking the convoy on 19 February. All three
bombings took place close to Toagel Mlungui Pass, Planes
seemed to be able to see the periscope or the submarine
itself. On one occasion bombs fell while the periscope
was up.

IX DESCRIPTION OF ENEMY MINE SWEEPING OPERATIONS
None observed.

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— page 21 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol.
ld
e. The following casualties are all a result of the near
bomb miss on 19 February:

1. Both periscope staunch glasses were shattered and
#1 periscope upper prism broken. Both periscopes
were flooded and forced the termination of the patrol.

2. Number 2B main ballast tank cannot be blown because
of a leak either in the tank itself or in the 2B
main vent and the emergency vent. Number 2D main
vent leaks but the emergency vent is tight. As a
result we had to run with 2A and B flooded and 2D
emergency vent closed.

3. Mercury was displaced from the bowl of the Arma
master gyrocompass. This caused contact between
the sensitive element and the bowl and put the
gyro out of commission until mercury could be
restored.

4. The magnetic compass binnacle tube flooded out
preventing the use of magnetic compass for steer-
ing, and forcing us to use the boat compass in
the control room until the gyro compass could be
repaired.

5. SJ Radar bearing indicator shaft was bent prevent-
ing the use of the bearing indicator.

6. Shock damage to contactors put bow plane tilting
motor out of commission for several hours, forcing
us to use hand power.

XI RADIO RECEPTION

Radio reception was satisfactory as no submarine messages
were missed. This was due, however, mainly to the
fact that messages were repeated. Single NPH numbers were
frequently missed in the early morning hours owing to weak
signal reception, interfering stations and static. Re-
ception on the 4mc. band was always good when it was
secured at 1700(Z) with the shift to the 8mc. and 12mc.
bands. Poor reception was had on both these latter
frequencies until an hour or two after the shift. 26.1
kcs and the 16mc. band were practically useless for copying,
while on station, during night surface. East of the 150th
meridian 26.1 kcs. was satisfactory and frequently used for
copying.

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1d
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War Patrol.

XVII FACTOR OF ENDURANCE CAUSING END OF PATROL
    Both periscopes flooded out.

XVIII REMARKS.
    The tube hydraulic outer door mechanism worked well and
    caused no trouble except for slow hydraulic oil leaks at
    pipe connections. With hydraulic power a tube door can
    be opened in slightly over three seconds. On several
    occasions torpedo tubes were made ready but were not
    fired and torpedoes were exposed to sea pressure at
    periscope depth for up to one-half hour. Two tubes leaked
    when we went deep and pressure built up to one hundred
    and sixty pounds in each. Torpedoes were exposed
    to these high pressures for five minutes before torpedomen
    vented tubes. When torpedoes were examined later, after-
    bodies and gyros were all bone dry, but tails were flooded.
    Two exploders were partly and one completely flooded. It
    is believed that grease around the impeller shaft softened
    when the weather got warm permitting the exploders to flood.
    Feather gage tests on one flooded exploder showed only 8
    ounces. Proper reading should be 22 ounces.

    The Commanding Officer is proud to note here that the
    conduct of the officers and crew of the RUNNER on their
    first patrol was exemplary and in accordance with the best
    traditions of the Naval Service. The calm, collected,
    efficient manner with which Lieutenant Jud F. Yoho, Jr.,
    U.S. Navy maintained control of the boat under most trying
    circumstances is especially noteworthy and will be made
    the subject of special correspondence.

    The health and morale of the crew is excellent and reflects
    great credit upon the officers and leading petty officers
    whose untiring effort has been responsible for the success
    of this patrol.

- 15 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 24 —
FB5-141/A9/A16
Serial (0100)
CONFIDENTIAL
---

SUBMARINE DIVISION 141
c
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
March 8, 1943.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. RUNNER first
patrol report.

From: The Commander Submarine Division 141.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER - Report of First Patrol Report.

1.
Forwarded.

2.
The first war patrol of RUNNER was aggressively
and efficiently conducted.

3.
Battle damage to both periscopes caused the patrol
to be ended prior to the scheduled date.

4.
Refit will be accomplished by Submarine Base, Pearl
Harbor, in the normal two weeks period. Material condition, except-
ing for battle damage, is considered excellent. The best known
remedy for the shearing of bow plane pins is the installation of a
new limit switch designed and manufactured by the Portsmouth Navy
Yard. A request for the new type limit switch has been submitted.

5.
The general appearance of the ship in regard to
cleanliness and orderliness, upon her return to base, was in
accordance with the usual high standards set by the Commanding
Officer.

6.
Personnel returned from the patrol, the majority
for whom it was the first, cheerful, alert, happy and eager to
return to the combat zone.

7.
The efficient manner of maintaining control of
the ship after the near bomb miss, with the entailing damage is
considered very commendable. The continuation of effective firing
at this time is considered outstanding.

8.
By copy of this endorsement the Commanding Officer,
officers and crew are heartily congratulated.

ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 25 —
fk

FC5-4/A16-3
Serial 045

SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
March 9, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. RUNNER first
war patrol report.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of First War
Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

2. The first war patrol of the RUNNER was very suc-
cessful and was conducted in the same efficient and aggressive
manner that the present Commanding Officer has conducted other
war patrols. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew are
congratulated on the damage inflicted on the enemy.

3. The material condition of the RUNNER is excellent
except for the damage done by aerial bombing. She will be re-
fitted in the normal period.

ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 26 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

Serial 0634
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
May 14, 1943.

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 179
U.S.S. RUNNER - SECOND WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of Second War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject War Patrol Report.
(B) Copy of Comsubdiv 44 Conf. ltr. FF5-44/A16-3,
serial 012-B of May 9, 1943.
(C) Copy of Comsubron 4 Conf. 1st. end. FF5-4/A16-3,
serial 0110 of May 12, 1943.

1. This was the second war patrol for the U.S.S. RUNNER. Its
primary mission was the laying of a thirty-two mine plant. The RUNNER
accomplished this mission in spite of adverse weather conditions and diffi-
cult and hazardous location.

2. Upon completion of the mine plant, the RUNNER carried out two
attacks upon enemy merchantmen, being successful in one. Because of enemy
anti-submarine action the RUNNER was unable to observe any of the results.

3. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates
the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for the successful completion of
the primary mission, subsequent to which they were successful in inflicting
damage to the enemy:

DAMAGED

1 - Freighter (SINSYO MARU class) - 4,837 tons

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72] C. H. STYER,
Acting.
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

DISTRIBUTION:
(1M-43)
List III, SS.
Special:
F1(5), Z1(5), [UNCLEAR: M-GRAVED S-4 VILAS]
Comsublant (2), X3(1),
ComsubsoWesPac (2),
Subschool, NL (2), [STAMP: MAY 31 1943]
Comtaskfor 72 (2), [HANDWRITTEN: ROUTE TO - 16-E-3]
Comsubron 5 (2),
Comsopac (2), [STAMP: Op File No. S-D] [HANDWRITTEN: A16-3/23]/15275
CincLant (2), [STAMP: Doc No. 83209]
Comtaskfor 16 (1). [STAMP: Copy No. 5]
[SIGNATURE: Z.R.S.]
[STAMP: PRN]
E. R. SWINBURNE,
Flag Secretary.
[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 49697]

— page 27 —
F

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Report of Second War Patrol.
Period from 1 April to 6 May 1943.

PROLOGUE
7 March arrived Pearl upon completion of first war patrol.
Commenced refit by Sub Base and relief crew on 8 March.
Replaced both flooded periscopes. Three inch gun shifted forward
and bridge cut down for forward 20 MM. Degaussing removed.
Ship depermed. Refit completed 22 March. Three days train-
ing. Fired six exercise torpedoes. Readiness for sea on 1
April.

I NARRATIVE

1 April 1330 (VW) departed Pearl for Midway in company with PC 588.

5 April 0655 (Y) moored Midway. Fueled to capacity.
1236 (Y) departed Midway for assigned area.

6-7 April Crossed date line.

11 April Ran submerged all day to train planesman.

15 April 1300 (H) entered area.

16 April 1400 (H) entered area.
2100 (H) Altered course for Bashi Channel.

17 April Patrolling surfaced and submerged.
2345 (H) sighted three flashing lights on horizon. These were
believed to be fishing or patrol vessels and were sighted occasion-
ally throughout the night. (Contact #1).

18 April 1920 (H) Set course for Pedro Blanco Rock in the hope of making the
mine plant tomorrow night.

19 April 0020 (H) sighted two patrol vessels. (Contact #2). Since we are
trying to close the land we attempted to run around these vessels
but could not shake them loose. They were sighted on and off for
4 hours and each time with a small angle on the bow. Minimum range
was 2000 yards. This was a clear moonlit night and we may have
been sighted. 0600 dove and proceeded toward the beach.
1837 (H) surfaced and sighted sailing junk hull down. (Contact #3).
As sky was overcast full moon showing only through clouds decided
to lay mines if possible. Consequently proceeded toward harbor
entrance steering various courses to evade detection by
picket line. Indications were that considerable patrol activity could
be expected.
At 2142 (H) passed Pedro Blanco abeam to starboard distant 4 miles and
set course for mine area. At 2150 (H) a line of 3 sailing junks

- 1 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 29 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER - Report of Second War Patrol.
F
22 April 0024 (H) while making a periscope exposure one more explosion was
heard from the vicinity of the attack but no screws could be
picked up. At 0200 (H) surfaced in bright moonlight to chase
target. At 0225 (H) sighted 2 patrol boats which headed for us at
about 16 knots (Contact #9). Endeavored to get around sub chasers
to chase target but so much time was lost we gave up the chase
when daylight showed no signs of him. Ship was similar to Huzikawa
Maru.

23 April 0300 (H) sighted lights on horizon but could not make out the
vessel which were probably patrol or fishing boats (Contact #10).

24 April Patrolling across steamer lanes from Hong Kong to Ta Kau. 0525 (H)
sighted steamer on horizon on westerly course angle on the bow 90
port range 10 miles (Contact #11). Commenced maneuvering to get
ahead of target. 0710 (H) sighted plane on port beam and dove.
0730 (H) surfaced. Plane was not in sight so we continued to chase.
A cloudless sky and glassy sea with no ground swell made this
make this attack difficult. The target was zigging and base course
appeared to be 254. Ship was similar to Sinsyo Maru 4837 tons.
1134 (H) submerged when target was astern with 0 angle on the bow
and commenced attack. Maneuvered into position for 90 track, dis-
tance from track 1000 yards and apparently we were not sighted
up to time of firing. At 1257 (H) fired 2 remaining bow shots
on a 90 starboard track, range 1200 yards, gyro angle 3 left, tor-
pedo depth 10 feet. We used a speed spread this time of 10 knots
for first torpedo and 12 knots for the second.(Attack #2). Immediat-
ely swung hard left to bring stern tube with remaining torpedo to
bear. At 1301 (H) fired #7 tube with 21 left gyro angle on a 120
starboard track. One minute and 10 seconds after firing #7 tube
one torpedo explosion was heard and target screws stopped. Sound
reported crackling and grinding noises on target bearing immediat-
ely after the explosion. After firing we had gone to full speed at
full speed in order to clear the torpedo track but on hearing
explosion we immediately slowed and started for periscope depth
to make observations. While on the way up first depth charge went
off, very loud but no particular jar was experienced. Went to 250
feet and ran silent. Depth charge was distinctly different sound
from torpedo explosion. While making this attack in a glassy sea
only a few inches of periscope was exposed at any time and then only
for 2 or 3 seconds. No attempt was made to search for escorts but
they were not heard or seen. However an escort could easily have
been on off side of target without having been sighted. The state
of the sea made any periscope exposure for searching out of the
question. However at 1400 (H) decided to risk a look and started
up. Immediately afterwards fast screws were heard patrolling from
starboard to port ahead of us. Up until this time we had believed
the depth charge came from a plane. Screws were intermittently for

- 3 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 31 —
CONFIDENTIAL
F
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER - Report of Second War Patrol.

V. VESSELS SIGHTED

| No. | Date | Time | Lat. Long. | Type | Course | Speed | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 17-18 April | 2345(H) | 21-35 N 119-00 E | 3 lights - probably fishing or patrol vessels | ? | ? | Only lights sighted. |
| 2. | 19 April | 0020 (H) | 21-00 N 115-00 E | 2 patrol vessels | | | Sighted on and off for about 4 hours No lights. |
| 3. | 19 April | 1837 (H) | 21-56.5N 115-47 E | Sailing junk | | | |
| 4. | 19 April | 2150 (H) | 22-16 N 115-00 E | 3 Sailing junks | 000 | 3 | |
| 5. | 19 April | 2220 (H) | 22-20 N 114-57 E | 1 patrol vessel | 000 | | Large armed yacht PC.or destroyer. |
| 6. | 20 April | 0450 (H) | 21-22 N 115-13 E | 2 sailing junks | | | |
| 7. | 21 April | 1835 (H) | 20-45 N 113-09 E | 1 freighter | 075 | 10 | Kuzikawa Maru Type (Attack #1). |
| 8. | 21 April | 2146 (H) | 20-45 N 113-09 E | 2 Patrol vessels | | | These headed for us at about 15 km. |
| 9. | 22 April | 0225 (H) | 21-08 N 114-00 E | 2 patrol vessels sub chaser type | | | Only lights sighted fishing or patrol boats. |
| 10. | 23 April | 0300 (H) | 21-53 N 117-33 E | 2 lights | | | |
| 11. | 24 April | 0525 (H) | 22-09 N 118-00 E | 1 freighter | 254 | 12 | Sinsys Maru Class (Attack #2). |
| 12. | 25 April | 2130 (H) | 21-00 N 119-38 E | Various lights | | | Line of 12 or more patrol boats. |
| 13. | 26 April | 2330 (H) | 20-15 N 122-30 E | Several lights | | | Fishing or patrol vessels. |

VI. AIRCRAFT SIGHTED

| No. | Date | Time | Lat. Long. | Type | Course | Alt. | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 24 April | 0710 (H) | 22-09 N 118-00 E | Undetermined | | 3000 | Patrol or escort for merchant ship. |

- 5 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 35 —
FB5-44/A16-3
Serial 012-B
CONFIDENTIAL
From:
To:
Via:
Subject:

1.
SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR
In Care Fleet Postoffice,
San Francisco, California,
May 9, 1943.
The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR.
The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.
The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
U.S.S. RUNNER - Report of Second War Patrol
Comments.
-

The Second War Patrol of RUNNER covered a period
of thirty-six days between departure from Pearl Harbor and
return to Midway. RUNNER carried thirty-two mines and eight
torpedoes upon departure for patrol area. Mine plant was suc-
cessfully accomplished on the fourth night in the area and all
torpedoes were expended after nine days in the area.

2.
This patrol was carried out with the aggressive-
ness and efficiency characteristic of the Commanding Officer.

3.
RUNNER made only two attacks during this patrol,
five torpedoes being expended on the first attack and three
on the second.

The first attack consisted of two parts. In the
first part three torpedoes were fired at ten second intervals
on 90° starboard track using range of 1500 yards, depth set-
ting of 15 feet, target speed of 9 knots, small gyro ang le
and divergent spread of two degrees between torpedoes. These
failed to hit so set-up was changed to range of 2500 yards,
target speed of ll knots, depth setting of 10 feet, and two
more torpedoes were fired at 10 second interval on track of
110° sterboard using a spread of three degrees. These also
failed to hit. There was no evidence of faulty performance
of torpedoes. The first part of the attack was carried out
deliberately and apparently good firing position was reached.
However, the ranges may have been in error since neither
radar nor echo ranging equipmont were used after RUNNER sub-
merged for the approach about 10,000 yards away from the tar-
got. The spread for first part of attack covered about three
fourths of the target length. It is considered that a greater

-1-
ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 36 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER - Report of Second War Patrol -
Comments.
spread could have been used to advantage under the conditions
of this attack. The Commanding Officer is of the opinion that
the target successfully avoided the two torpedoes fired in the
second part of the attack.

The second attack was also made in two parts, two
torpedoes being fired from the bow tubes in the first part of the
attack and four minutes later one torpedo was fired from an after
tube. Target speed spread of 10 knots and 12 knots was used for
the first two torpedoes and target speed of 11 knots was used for
third torpedo. The approach for this attack was long and there
was plenty of time to analyze target movements and gain an ex-
cellent firing position. The set-up seemed perfect, but the
first two torpedoes missed. The third torpedo hit, although
practically the same target data were used as for first two torp-
edoes.

4. The RUNNER returned from patrol in very good
material condition and officers and men were in excellent health.
Morale was visibly high.

ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 37 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR

FC5-4/A16-3                                                              F
Serial 0110                                        Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                   San Francisco, California,
CONFIDENTIAL                                       May 12, 1943.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
ComSubPac ltr. FB5-44/
A16-3 Ser. 012-B of 5/9/43

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

Subject:     U.S.S. RUNNER - Report of Second War Patrol -
             Comments.

             1. Forwarded concurring in the remarks of Command-
er Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR.

             2. It is believed that a definite policy should be
established regarding spreads as the analysis of the two attacks
show the following conditions:

                                   ATTACK #1
             The divergent spread of 2° used in this attack
gave a coverage of 306 feet along target track. To insure
getting one certain hit on this ship (436 foot target) it
is believed that a spread of 4° to give 150 percent coverate
should have been used.

                                   ATTACK #2
             The speed spread of 2 knots was not large enough
to insure one certain hit with two torpedoes. A spread of
plus 1½, minus 1½ (total spread 3 knots) should have
been
used.

             3. It is noted that the new steel conning tower
hatch is not satisfactory. In view of the fact that the
Bureau of Ships is replacing all composition hatches with this
type of hatch the difficulties described should be investigated
and corrected prior to installation in other submarines.

                                                              ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 38 —
UNITED STATES
SUBMARINE LOSSES

WORLD WAR II

Reissued with an Appendix of
Axis Submarine Losses, fully indexed,

by

Naval History Division
Office of the Chief of Naval Operations
Washington: 1963

— page 39 —
RUNNER (SS 275)

On 28 May 1943 RUNNER (Lt. Cdr. J. H. Bourland)
left Midway to proceed to Latitude 48°-30'N, Lon-
gitude 154°E and begin her third patrol. She was
to patrol from this spot, until she came
into the area south of the northern
tip of Honshu, Hokkaido and east of the northern
tip of Honshu, where she was to patrol from about 8
June to 4 July 1943. The submarine was never heard
from following her departure from Midway.

She was expected at Midway about 11 July, and not
later than 15 July, and should have made a transmission
when approximately 500 miles from this base. She was
ordered on 11 July to make an immediate transmission,
but no reply came. Although a careful lookout was main-
tained in the hope that RUNNER was safe but without
transmission facilities, results were negative. On
20 July RUNNER was reported as presumed lost.

A summary of Japanese antisubmarine attacks re-
ceived since the close of hostilities contains no mention
of an attack which could explain the loss of RUNNER.
Thus her loss must be ascribed to an enemy mine-
field, of which there were at least four in the area to
which she was assigned, to an operational casualty, or
to an unreported enemy attack. Destruction by a mine
is considered the most likely of these possibilities.

This ship sank three ships, totaling 19,800 tons, and
damaged three more, for 19,000 tons, on her first two
patrols. RUNNER patrolled the Palau area on her first
war run in February 1943, and all of her sinkings were
made here. She sank three medium freighters, and dam-
aged two more. During her second patrol off Hongkong
in the South China Sea, RUNNER damaged a freighter.

J. H. Bourland

48

— page 42 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 2.]

FF12-10/A4-1/(11) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
By

Serial 0932
20 July 1943

[STAMP: SECRET]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

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. RUNNER (SS275) - loss of.

1. The U.S.S. RUNNER has not been heard from since her
departure from Midway on 27 May 1943 and it is presumed that this
vessel has been lost.

2. In accordance with Commander Task Force Seventeen
Operation Order 85-43 the RUNNER departed Midway on 27 May 1943
with orders to proceed to Latitude 48-30N, Longitude 154E and
then to patrol southwest along the Kuril Island chain and into
area one about 8 June 1943 where she was to patrol until not
later than sunset on 4 July 1943. Upon completion of her patrol
the RUNNER was to return to Pearl Harbor for refit stopping at
Midway enroute for fuel. Area one is in the vicinity of Tsugaru
Straits and it is bounded on the east by 145 degrees east, on the
south by 40 degrees north and on the north and west by the coast
of Hokkaido and Honshu.

3. If the RUNNER departed area one as ordered and used
normal cruising speed she would have arrived at Midway on 11 July
1943. At the lowest speed that the RUNNER might use, (about eight
knots) she would have arrived at Midway on 15 July 1943.

4. Submarines of this force returning from patrol have
orders to report by radio when approximately 600 miles from Midway.
Using normal cruising speed the RUNNER should have made this report
on 9 July and at slowest speed this report should have been received
on 13 July. As no such report had been received by this command,
on 11 July a dispatch was sent to the RUNNER which required immediate
reply. No reply to this dispatch has been received.

5. Considering the possibility of failure of the RUNNER's
communications, a dispatch was sent to Commander Submarine Squadron
Ten at Midway on 12 July 1943 directing him to keep a careful watch
for the possibility of the RUNNER carrying out the procedure described
by Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, standing patrol instruc-
tions for submarines approaching Midway and unable to communicate.
This has brought negative results.

-1-

— page 44 —
Cincpac File
Pac-11-Sn
L11-1(L)
Serial 00872

[HANDWRITTEN: 0274]
[STAMP: Reg. No.]
[STAMP: R.S. No. 8 166]

[STAMP: SECRET]
SECRET
---

UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET
FLAGSHIP OF THE COMMANDER IN CHIEF

1st Endorsement on
Comsubpac ltr. FF12-
10/A4-1/(11) Serial
0932 of 20 July, 1943.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS275) - Loss of.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the presumption
expressed in paragraph 6 of the basic letter.

[SIGNATURE: R. A. Spruance]
R. A. SPRUANCE
Chief of Staff

Copy to:
Comsubpac

[STAMP: COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
FLAG OFFICE
RECEIVED
1943 AUG 4 1548]

— page 45 —
USS Runner (SS-476) operating on the surface with her periscopes extended, 1960. Her “fleet snorkel” modernization left her
hull form unmodified except for removal of deck guns and installation of the sonar dome which can be seen on the forecastle
deck. She has a streamlined sail similar to those fitted to the more extensively-modified Guppy submarine conversions.

II
(SS-476: dp. 1,570 (surf.), 2,414 (subm.); l. 311'8"; b. 27'4";
dr. 15'3"; s. 20 k. (surf.), 9 k. (subm.); cpl. 76; a. 1 5",
2 20mm., 10 21" tt., (2 30 cal. mg.; cl. Tench)

The second Runner (SS-476), a diesel-powered attack sub-
marine, was laid down on 10 July 1944 by the Portsmouth
Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, N.H.; launched 17 October
1944; sponsored by Mrs. R. H. Bass, the wife of the prospec-
tive commanding officer; commissioned 6 February 1945,
Comdr. R. H. Bass in command.
After shakedown and preliminary training off the Atlantic
coast, she departed New London 5 April 1945, and arrived
at Pearl Harbor 21 May 1945, after intensive training at
Key West and Balboa. Her first war patrol was off the east
coast of Honshu, Japan. Her primary mission was to scout for
the presence of defensive minefields guarding
the Japanese home islands. On 10 July while on patrol in the
Sea of Japan, she intercepted two worthwhile targets, a
tanker and a minesweeper. The tanker and her two escorts
escaped the spread of torpedoes fired at them, but the mine-
sweeper, W-27, was splintered by the Runner's torpedoes.
Before departing station, Runner received 16 downed aviators
from Gabilan (SS-252) and Aspro (SS-309) for transfer to
Guam, where she arrived on 24 July.

Her second patrol began a week prior to the Japanese
capitulation and by the time Runner arrived on station off the
east coast of Honshu, peace had come. Runner, with 10 other
U.S. submarines entered Tokyo Bay 31 August and repre-
sented the U.S. submarine service at the formal surrender
ceremonies. SS-476 and her sister ship proceeded south arriving
at Pearl Harbor 12 September. She continued east until reaching New
London, Conn., on 6 October. A few weeks later, in company
with other vessels of Submarine Squadron 6, Runner departed
for duty at Balboa, C.Z. on 14 February 1946. For the next
3 years, Runner was based at Panama and participated in an-
nual fleet exercises in the Caribbean.

In June 1949, she was reassigned to Norfolk, her base for
the next 7 years. In the autumn of 1957, Runner participated
in North Atlantic NATO exercises, visiting ports in France
and England. Homeported in San Juan, P. R., from July 1958
to July 1959, she operated in the Caribbean as a Regulus
missile guidance submarine.

— page 46 —
Returning to Norfolk in July 1959, Runner operated with
the fleet along the Atlantic coast for the next 3 years. She
deployed to the Mediterranean from January to early May
1962, operating with United States and NATO units. The
remainder of 1962 was taken up with local ASW exercises and
overhaul.
Throughout 1963 and 1964, she engaged in various anti-
submarine warfare exercises in the western Atlantic. The
summer of 1964 was spent in the Great Lakes, training Naval
Reservists. After operating with the fleet in the spring of
1965, she entered Norfolk Naval Shipyard for overhaul. In
1966, operations included services for ASW exercises, type
training, and participation in Exercise Springboard in the
early spring. Runner deployed to the Mediterranean with
the 6th Fleet from 8 July to 28 October 1966. School services
for future submariners occupied most of 1967.
The year 1968 commenced with Runner providing services
for UDT school at Little Creek, Va., and ASW training off
the east coast. On 4 April 1968, Runner departed on her last
Mediterranean deployment. She returned to Norfolk 31 July,
have visited ports in Spain and Portugal, and participating
in NATO Exercise Dawn Patrol.
On 25 January 1969, Runner was decommissioned at the
Boston Naval Shipyard, and towed to the Great Lakes Naval
Training Station, where she was redesignated AGSS-476 and
served as a Naval Reserve Training vessel until stricken from
the Navy list 15 December 1971.
Runner received one battle star for World War II service.

— page 47 —
Dictionary of
American Naval
Fighting Ships

VOLUME VI

Historical Sketches—Letters R through S
Appendices—Submarine Chasers (SC)
Eagle-Class Patrol Craft (PE)

WITH A FOREWORD BY
ADMIRAL JAMES L. HOLLOWAY III, United States Navy,
THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS

AND AN INTRODUCTION BY
VICE ADMIRAL EDWIN B. HOOPER, United States Navy, Retired,
THE DIRECTOR OF NAVAL HISTORY

NAVAL HISTORY DIVISION
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
WASHINGTON: 1976

— page 48 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

SS476/A16-3
Serial 035

U. S. S. RUNNER
[UNCLEAR: ABC]
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
24 July 1945.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander in Chief, U.S. Fleet.
The Commander Submarine Division 342.
The Commander Submarine Squadron 34.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet.
Via :

Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476), Report of War Patrol
number One.

Enclosure: (A) Subject report.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol
of this vessel, conducted off the east coast of northern
HONSHU, during the period 23 June to 24 July 1945, is forwarded
herewith.

[SIGNATURE: R. H. BASS.]
R. H. BASS.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP-09B9C DATE 6/4/72]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 136604]

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CONFIDENTIAL                                                              ABC
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

(A) PROLOGUE

          Keel laid 10 July 1944 at Navy Yard, Portsmouth, N.H.
Launched and christened U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476), 16 October
1944. Commissioned 6 February 1945 by Rear Admiral T.
WITHERS, U.S. Navy. Commander R. H. BASS, U.S. Navy assumed
command. Completed 26 February 1945 and commenced training
in PORTSMOUTH area. 18 March 1945 departed PORTSMOUTH, N.H. a very
well built submarine, a credit to that famous submarine yard.
Desire to express here our appreciation for the many courtesies
rendered submariners by the officers at that yard. 18 March
1945 arrived NEWPORT for contract torpedo firing. 21 March
1945 arrived NEW LONDON. Moved TBT's to bridge wings, which
lead to what we consider an infinitely better bridge, without
the big blind spot forward. Seven days training at NEW LONDON,
training officer, Commander A. H. TAYLOR, U.S. Navy. 5 April
1945 departed NEW LONDON. 10 April 1945 arrived KEY WEST for
Sound School. 20 April 1945 departed KEY WEST for
Sound School. 24 April 1945 arrived BALBOA, C.Z. Six days excellent train-
ing at Captain J. G. JOHN'S ideal subtraining and fish-
ing preserve in PERLAS ISLANDS. 5 May 1945 departed BALBOA in
company with CARP, MORAY, and WOODFORD (KA86) for PEARL.
Conducted highly beneficial training enroute. 21 May 1945
arrived PEARL. Installed APR with TN-1, TN-2, and TN-3.
Installed a second 5" gun and added topside ammunition stow-
age and mounts for sixteen 50 cal. guns. Retained twin
20mm guns on after bridge and 40mm on front porch. Conducted
eight days training with Captain L. T. STONE, U.S. Navy, as
training officer. After the training period, installed OLA
with keel mounted head, and moved the QB head topside. In-
stalled busy whip antenna, TDM, LORAN, SONAR SCAN, and ST
input to SJ EPI. Utilized Substrainpac schools at PEARL to
maximum. Had four days OLA training with Captain William
IRVIN, U.S. Navy, as training officer.

(B) NARRATIVE

Officers on board                                        Age      Patrols
                                                                  this incl.

Commander R. H. BASS, USN                                35       8
Lieutenant Commander C. V. GORDON, USN                   29       4
Lieutenant V. UTKE-RAMSING, Jr., USNR                    26       10

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                                                                        AEC
U.S.S. RUFF (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

Lieutenant H. M. DORAN, Jr., USN             24         1
Lieutenant E. J. HANNON, Jr., USN            24         6
Lieutenant (jg) C. C. BLOUNT, Jr., USNR      24         1
Lieutenant (jg) J. J. CLANCY, USN            23         4
Ensign L. L. OKERBLOM, Jr., USNR             20         1
Ensign C. E. KERR, USN                       23         1
Ensign E. W. CARPENTER, USN                  23         5
                                   Average   26         4.1

CPO's

W. E. MOORE, CTM(PA)(SS), USN                27         9
R. T. SAUNDERS, CEM(PA)(SS), USN             27         6
R. A. CAMPBELL, CMoMM(PA)(SS), USN           38         7
R. W. YALE, CMoM(T)(SS), USN                 30         7
E. H. HENDRIX, CPhM(T)(SS), USNR             29         5
D. CORBISIERO, CCS(PA)(SS), USN              30         11
                                   Average   30         7.5

23 June (4½) 1200: 21-29N 168-20W

    1004 Underway for First War Patrol as task unit 17.2.2
pursuant to Comsubpacad Opord #129-45 of 22 June 1945.
Joined escort at channel entrance. Cruising on four engines
making three day passage to MIDWAY. Zigging.
    1455 Dived for 25 minute fire control drill. 1520
Surfaced.
    1600 Commenced tracking escort at battle stations. Made
several practice surface attacks on him as he departed
for PEARL. Enroute to area made numerous short
dives, mostly at night, drilled at fire control station
daily, followed by a deep dive simulating depth charge attack,
using our all hands damage control bill. Fired all guns at
balloons and balloon filled mattress cover targets. Train-
ing program resulted in our reaching area having made a total
of 324 dives with all gear and team working perfectly.
    2142 Doubtful radar contact bearing 100, range 10,500,
tracked intermittently to bearing 135, range 7,800 and was
lost. Considered no contact.

24 June (4/10) 1200: 25-37N 164-04W

25 June (4/11½) 1200: 27-56N 171-07W

    1113 SD contact 16 miles. Did not close.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

26 June (/12) 1200: MIDWAY

0745 Sighted two plane escort off MIDWAY. Doubled look-
outs, zig-zagging at full speed, approaching entrance. 1059
Moored to SAIL 2 at MIDWAY. Commenced fueling to capa-
city, including safety and negative for four engine transit to area.
Bushnell and Div 141 relief crew renewed flooded loop antenna
and made other voyage repairs quietly and quickly. RUNNER
was showered with the famous MIDWAY and Bushnell hospitality.
1558 Fuel hoses clear. Underway. Zigged at full speed
with doubled lookouts under air cover until sunset. Then
slowed to 80-90 on four for passage. We were blessed with
smooth seas. No air patrols were encountered enroute.
2313 Interference from eastbound submarine detected to
north.

27 June omitted from calendar.

28 June (-12) 1200: 29-03N 177-38E

0705 Rudder angle indicator out for 19 minutes.
1038 SJ interference bearing 070 for a few minutes.

29 June (-11½) 1200: 31-32N 170-40E

0341 False radar contact 1200 yards.
1244 SJ interference bearing 065.
1248 APR contact on friendly SD radar.
1255 SJ contact on friendly submarine passing on
opposite course 12,000 yards north.

30 June (-11) 1200: 33-36N 163-50E

0003 SJ interference bearing 294.
1914 Sighted floating mine and sank it at 1925 with 20mm,
50 cal. and 30 cal. fire. (Mine contact #1).
2337 Possible APR contact 670mcs.

1 July (-10) 1200: 34-51N 156-55E

0455 Possible SJ interference bearing 150.

2 July (-10) 1200: 36-00N 149-29E

0115 On a drill dive lookout's coat caught in hatch.
Shut vents, blew ballast, freed coat, shut hatch, and dived
to 100'. This with many other hatch incidents illustrates

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U.S.S. RUNTER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE.

the need for diligent attention to all details relating to
conning tower hatch.
1400 It having become impossible to reach coast by dawn,
3 July, dived for training LA team. 1515 Surfaced.
2056 Weak APR contact on 88 mcs.

3 July (-9) 1200: 36-26N 143-23E

0817 Sighted mine (Mine contact #2). Lost it while
turning.
1042 Sighted possible smoke bearing 005. C/c to 005.
Nothing developed. Whale smoke. Many whales in vicinity.
1110 Dived 130 miles from the coast to remain undetected
prior commencement of special mission at dawn tomorrow.
Trained LA team, and at backing down full at periscope depth.
1723 Surfaced. SD and SJ ready to key if ordered, SJ on
blind search except while making an ST sweed every five min-
utes. APR on routine search. ABK off. This was our basic
radar plan.
2019 Commenced carrying twin 20mm guns on cigarette deck
at night, ready to shoot, but on safe.
2115 00D and LO sighted phosphorescent wake of small
ship in dark night close on port beam and dived (SC1). No
screws heard.
2142 Surfaced. Proceeded. Zigging. APR contacts
during night on 115, 81, 74, and 90 mcs.

4, 5, and 6 July

Accomplished special mission covered in separate
correspondence.
2105 on the 4th received CSP serial 35 ordering RUNNER
to lifeguard station off northeast tip of HONSTU on 13 and
14 July.

7 July (-9) 1200: 38-33N 141-34E

It being impossible to reach area of next special mis-
sion in a single night, decided to patrol coast of HONSHU one
day off OSU SAKI at 38-32N. Proceeding at full speed. APR
contact on 150 mcs. Using ST and blind search on SJ.
0135 Received CSP serial 55 directing RUNNER to interrupt
special mission if necessary to render lifeguard services off
northeast tip of HONSHU on 13 and 14 July. Also that orders
to return to GUWM could be expected after lifeguard mission
was completed.
0305 Keyed SJ for range and bearing on land. Range 13
miles, bearing 315.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUMTUS (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

0325 Dived on 100 fathom curve at 38-25N, 12.5 miles off
OSU SAKI. Opened OLA and closed OSU. Flat calm. Low
variable visibility.
0729 Sighted smoke bearing 237, already by OSU SAKI.
headed south. Never saw top of this ship but it was fast and
made much black smoke as it passed to seaward of KINKASAN
(SC#2).
1000 Commenced patrol 3,000 to 4,000 yards off OSU SAKI
in 30 to 40 fathoms, remaining in a small area to reduce
probability of being mined. Continued to use OLA. For
visibility low. Sighted numerous small craft whose primary
duty was undoubtedly fishing. Some of them looked sufficient-
ly like patrol boats that we rigged for silent running and
dropped down to 150', in 180' of water, to let them go by.
Had no intention of being caught too far out in case a torpedo
target passed this corner.
1143 Sighted vessel bearing 212, 7,000 yards. Looked
good. Battle stations. Identified as fisherman. Drilled
fire control party for an attack that we felt sure we would
make that day.
1715 Sighted another possible target bearing 000, 3 miles.
Stationed fire control party. A small patrol boat headed south,
we did nothing (SC#3).
1800 Commenced opening beach feeling that the war was
to pot. This was the first time the CO had ever patrolled
for a day up against the beach of the EMPIRE without being
able to make an attack on a torpedo target.
2103 Surfaced 12 miles, bearin 071, from OSU SAKI in
95 fathoms. Headed for area of next special mission. APR
contact on 130mcs.

8 July (-9)

Special mission.

9 July (-9)

Special mission until 1316.

FIRST ATTACK

MISSED MEDIUM TANKER

LAT. 39-10N LONG. 141-58E

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

1317 Sighted medium tanker bearing 201, 10,000 yards,
northbound along coast (9C#4). Battle stations. Commenced
approach. Tanker was light. Sighted two escorts, later made
out as a PC-1 and an AM-13 of the number 7 class.
One roving escort ahead crossing from one bow to the other.
The second escort was on the seaward beam. Rigged for depth
charge and silent running. We were in perfect position within
a mile of the shoals at SHIMOTSU SAKI. Sea was flat with a
faint ripple. Target was proceeding up beach line. The
roving escort passed ahead and were well inside the seaward
escort on target's starboard beam. Checked masthead height
at 90' when range was 5650 and 2140 yards. At 1355 with a
range of 1100 and the angle on the bow dead on 90S commenced
shooting. Fired six bow tubes, spread from 5R to 5L. A check
between 4th and 5th torpedoes was on within 15'. All but had
to be held up. Raised scope to see hits but saw target had
turned left actually more than 90° into TONI WAN. Swept for
seaward escort who had passed our stern and he too had turned
more than 90°, having reversed course and was heading for our
bow. Started deep and escort passed over very close, but lost
his opportunity when he did not drop. We headed south down
the coast while both escorts expended their effort and a few
depth charges to seaward of our attack position. We had an
excellent check on target speed using ST ranges. This can be
attributed to target's maneuver. In view of his quick turn
and escort's fast reversal of course, one or the other or
they must have sighted either our scope, impulse bubble, or
a torpedo at the time we commenced shooting. The sea was
flat. Torpedomen took in lots of water through pop-pets. At
any rate we missed our first opportunity to sink a torpedo
target. Two or three torpedoes exploded on the beach and the
others are thought to have entered TONI WAN.
1427 Screws and echo ranging were well to north. Came
to periscope depth, standing by stern tubes. Sighted our two
escorts 3,500 yards astern, scouring the area. Had three
18's and one 27 loaded aft. Did not seek action with these
two alert A/S vessels. Carefully observed these two well-
kept, trim craft, and recorded their characteristics for identi-
fication purposed. Used it later.
1555 Sighted two low flying single engine planes, the
first we had seen on this patrol. Dropped down and opened
coast at 2/3 speed.
2057 Surfaced. Thought our tanker might have holed up
in KAMAISHI or YAMADA WAN for the night. Intended to try to
get him off TODO following morning.
2115 Sent TREPANG and PAROCHE contact report of northbound
tanker on SANPLAN.

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U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE
10 July (-9) 1200: 39-28N 142-09E

0012 APR contact on 182 mcs.
0315 Having closed TODO to 8.5 miles, dived to get in
to beach early.
0320 Sighted smoke moving south off TODO (SC#5). The
morning fog covered the land as usual and the sea was dead
calm.
0535 Viewed a distressing sight. While closing the
beach sighted yesterday's tanker passing TODO, range 4 miles.
Had it been an hour later we could have attacked him. No
escorts seen. (SC#6). Continued to close the beach. Patrol-
ling 4,000 yards off their beautiful TODO LIGHT STATION. Saw
numerous small craft along the beach.
0753 Sighted smoke to northward and two PETES in same
direction. Ocean flat calm, commenced going to 100 per-
iscope looks. Kept close to TODO waiting for any target.
0801 Explosion. Several other explosions followed at
short intervals. On nearly every look a plane was sighted
to northward. Knew we had not been sighted and felt the JAP
was up to his old area bombing tactics. Continued to patrol
our selected point making careful looks in a flat sea.
0955 C/C to move patrol station south to KOSAKI. The
plane hovering off TODO was too much of a nuisance.
1002 Three explosions fairly close. Dropped down to 200'.
Another at 1003, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1008, 1009, 1015, and 1016.
1022 Back to periscope depth a ripple on the surface now.

SECOND ATTACK (SC#7)

SANK ESCORT AM-13 OF NO. 7 CLASS (EU)

LAT. 34-28N LONG. 142-06E

1032 QB reported pinging bearing 198 (SC#7).
1047 Several small craft in sight to south.
1048 Sighted trim escort AM-13 (EU) standing up the coast.
He was himself, zigging and pinging. Kept the bow pointed
at him and tracked him. Battle stations. Torpedoes on 4'.
Rigged for depth charge and silent running. It first appeared
that he was passing 3,000 yards to seaward, showing us a 70P
AOB. He zigged 70° to his left, giving us a zero AOB. He
at about 1,500 yards he zigged left again giving us a 15S AOB.
Tracked at speed 13. Ordered six torpedo salvo with our
"tight" spread. Had to sink him or it would be bad.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

1108 Upped scope, bearing, AOB, another bearing, and
with range 900, run 620, commenced firing a six torpedo salvo.
Ordered deep submergence on first shot. Last torpedo fired
at 104' with 10½° down angle.

1108-37 fired 1.
1108-45 fired 2.
1108-52 fired 3.
1108-59 fired 4.
1109-07 fired 5.
1109-15 fired 6.
1109-22 explosion.
1109-29 explosion.
1109-33 explosion followed immediately by loud breaking
up noises heard through the hull in all compartments. Tor-
pedo running hot in #6 tube. Door could not be shut.
1111 One loud explosion and several other lighter ex-
plosions believed to have come from sunk target. Headed out
to sea at 275' with our torpedo still partially out of #6
tube.
1158 Three A/S vessels had arrived and dropped one depth
charge. Screws and echo ranging astern, never close. Two
explosions at 1323, one at 1324, four at 1325, one at 1356,
and five at 1414.
1511 Stationed section, only distant pinging astern.
1932 Put large down angle on boat and blew air into #6
tube, backing full, and shook the torpedo out. No explosion.
1940 Surfaced. Proceeding south for another day's pa-
trol along the beach at OSU SAKI. APR contact 150 miles.
2226 CAMP SJ interference. Exchanged calls on VHF at
10,000 yards.
2230 Received CSP serial 66 cancelling RUNNER'S orders
to lifeguard mission on 13 and 14 July. Special mission was
assigned. We were told to expect assignment of lifeguard
mission off SHIOYA LIGHT on 16 and 17 July.

11 July (-9) 1200: 38-33N 141-34E

0116 Possible weak ST contact at bearing 266, 16,000
yards. Faded out at 14,000 yards. Considered no contact.
0234 Avoided unidentified black object close aboard.
No radar contact.
0256 Off OSU bearing 285, 12 miles. Dived early to get in
to OSU for a good day's patrol. Went to 300' to minimize
probability of being mined.
0520 Up to periscope depth, manned QLA.
0720 Reached patrol point off OSU in 30 fathoms where no
target could get by inboard of us. Again patrolled a point
to keep area swept to a minimum. Also kept QLA in operation.

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U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

Numerous fishermen along beach.
0821 Two subchasers, each escorting only the other, stood
north. Rigged for silent running, dropped down, and
let them go. (SC#8).
0912 Sighted one of these or another subchaser.
1106 Heard two distant explosions.
1140 Two more subchasers, possibly same ones.
1320 Rigged for silent running. Another fisherman or
patrol boat passed over.
1900 After twelve hours at this excellent patrol spot
headed east preparatory to surfacing. Much small stuff but
no torpedo targets passed this corner today. Dropped down
deep to get clear of mineable waters.
2030 Surfaced. Proceeded to area of special mission.
APR contacts on 151 and 153 mcs.
2107 Transmitted RUNNER SECOND, reporting results of special
mission on 8th and 9th. Also results of our two
attacks.

12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 July (-9)

Conducting special mission.
2107, 12 July. Received CSP orders to lifeguard mission
25 miles bearing 095 from SHIOYA SAKI LIGHT on 16 and 17 July.
Also information of movements of our own forces in our vicini-
ty. CSP orders to GUAM upon completion of lifeguard mission.
2230, 15 July. Received CSP serial 88 directing us to
be on lifeguard station previously assigned on 17 and 18 July.

17 July (-9) 1200: 36-58N 141-30E

0000 At assigned station, 25 miles bearing 095 from
SHIOYA SAKI LIGHT. Up on all lifeguard frequencies.
0418 Dived. Low ceiling, visibility 3 to 4 miles.
Listened on SD antenna on lifeguard frequencies and copied
skeds.
0544 Surfaced, patrolling in vicinity lifeguard station.
0553 Sighted several distant HONSHU bound planes passing
to north.
0607 Sighted two more planes headed for HONSHU.
0621 Sighted eight low, fast planes headed straight for
us. Fired bridge flare and dived to 200'. Odds were 10 to
1 that these were friendly, but had to dive anyway.
0637 Back at periscope depth sighted and identified two
F6F's in the vicinity. Surfaced and established good VHF
contact with our fighter cover. Thereafter we had a CAP of

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U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

two or four fighters.
0653 Our cover told us a plane was down 50 miles bear-
ing 070 from SHIOYA. All ahead full proceeding to the location.
0709 Fighter cover told us pilot had been rescued by
TONCAT ONE, presumed to be a surface craft or rescue plane.
1010 CAP report low fuel and requested permission to
depart. Permission was granted and that was the last of our
air cover for the day.
1055 Dived. Low ceiling, visibility three miles, rain.
Listened on assigned lifeguard frequencies on SD.
1239 Surfaced. Visibility still most unfavorable for a
submarine.
1250 Sighted two big planes in low visibility. They
separated, one remained barely in sight and the other disap-
peared. Heard conversation on APR about two PRIVATEERS.
Saw nothing more of these or any other planes all day. How-
ever, heard various conversations on APR and VHF and had numer-
ous APR contacts on 154, 159, 160, 195, 200, and 218 mcs. for
the rest of the day.
1400 Received CSP despatch informing us that our forces
would bombard HITACHI beginning at 2300 tonight.
1411 APR heard on 134 mcs. a voice with a JAP accent
talking about a downed "American superbomber". Then two
Yankee voices commented briefly on the JAP's remarks.
1540 APR heard on 145 mcs. "Forty one this is forty one
two Mayday".
1647 Heard "PIRATE 53" on lifeguard frequency. Called
him and asked if he had anything for us. No reply.
1657 Dived. Visibility very unfavorable. Listened on
SD antenna. Copied radio GUAM strength 5.
1900 Surfaced. Patrolling in vicinity of lifeguard sta-
tion. APR contacts on 79 and 195 mcs.
2055 Commenced getting SJ and ST interference from the
south. Headed north at full speed to clear own forces thought
to be closing beach.
2105 Made SJ sweep. Making continuous ST sweep. No
contacts. APR contact on 220 had reached scale 9. (Just
less than saturation with APR and SPA gain on full).
2111 Turned on IFF for three minutes.
2119 No clear of own forces or friendly submarine.
Patrolled vicinity.
2330 APR heard voice on 144 mcs. VHF heard "steer base
course 120 for 110 miles" and "Quaker three and Quaker four
were not airborne" on 140.58 mcs.

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U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

18 July (-9) 1200; 37-04N 141-28E

     Patrolling lifeguard station with no fix since 1800 on
16th. Barometer dropping. Visibility most unfavorable for
strike expected today.
     0310 Water coming down induction and conning tower hatch
from rough seas.
     0900 Received CSP serial three with orders to rendezvous
with ASPRO and GABILAN to take off their aviators and then to
proceed to GUAM. Our requested extension could not be granted
because of other needs.
     0920 Received from CSP information that an anti-shipping
strike was scheduled off TOKYO tonight and that further
orders and information would be sent out.
     1055 Heard planes 116 and 16 on VHF, close. Low on gas,
and their posit not definite. We exchanged calls to let them
know were in vicinity just in case.
     1245 In reply to an inquiry from planes nearby, informed
them that ceiling was 1,000 feet in our vicinity.
     1429 For first time today sighted fighter escorts. Fired
one dud and one good flare. At about 1500 they relieved the
watch.
     1630 Our fighters passed up starboard side, rocked
wings and departed signaling to us that last strike of day
was over. As they shoved off heard "I'm not sure what our
base course is". The other replied "I'm not sure either".
Our hat is off to them all.
     1702 Dived.
     1930 Surfaced and headed south.
     2105 On SAFPLAN requested ASPRO and GABILAN to rendezvous
at 35-20N, 140-15E near GABILAN's position at 0330 I, to take
off their aviators. This pursuant to CSP orders.
     2114 Heard ASPRO SJ interference to south. 2223 Exchanged
calls with ASPRO on SJ radar. Maintained contact with her
SJ interference throughout night.
     2323 Steady APR signal at 106 mcs.

19 July (-9) 1200; 34-32N 140-47E

     0324 Made SJ radar contact on ASPRO at 9,000 yards. Ex-
changed recognition signals and visual calls with her and then
closed.
     0417-0435 Close aboard ASPRO, receiving Army pilot from
her via rubber boat in a condition 5 sea.

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U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

0451 Sighted GABILAN bearing 221. Exchanged recognition
signals and closed. Agreed with GABILAN's opinion that sea
conditions were unfavorable for transfer of 15 aviators, and
arranged for rendezvous at her lifeguard station at 34-00N,
140-50E tonight at 2000 I.
0824 APR contacts on 100 and 79 mcs.
0858 Dived.
1555 Sighted light bomber bearing 024.
1904 Surfaced on three engines, heading for rendezvous.
1954 GABILAN SJ radar interference to north.
2019 Exchanged recognition signals and calls with GABILAN
on SJ radar. Closed to effect transfer.
2030-2138 Receiving 15 aviators from GABILAN. The seas
had calmed a noticeable amount and the transfer was much
easier than that made this morning. GABILAN used three rubber
boats lashed together, her own and two from the planes making
it possible to send seven men on the first trip, six on the
second, and two on the last. Aviators were:

Lieutenant William Reynolds EDDINS, 95618, USNR - VT-1
Lieutenant Robert Irvin TALBOT, 130298, USNR - VF-47
Lieutenant (jg) Richard L. PUGET, 314929, USNR - VT-1
Ensign John R. JANKE, 383009, USNR - VT-34
Ensign Hugh E. LANG, 419475, USNR - VT-34
Ensign Homer A. WINTER, 419562, USNR - VT-34
1st Lt. Frank H. MIKUS, 0-794272, USAAF - HDQTRS 506 Ftr Grp
*F/O John E. FREEMAN, T-131373, USAAF - SQDN 462 - 506 Ftr Grp

William F. HENNER, 381 81 56, ARM2c, USN - VT-1
Robert L. STALLSWORTH, 943 18 89, ARM2c, USNR - VT-34
Joseph K. DOTY, 733 91 59, ARM2c, USNR - VT-34
Edward L. DORNER, 726 96 45, ARM2c, USNR - VT-34
Norman C. MARTEN, 809 15 50, ARM3c, USNR - VT-1
Robert B. TAYLOR, 601 61 15, ARM3c, USNR - VT-34
Willis J. LODGE, 875 06 02, ARM3c, USNR - VT-34
Wallace F. STACHOWICZ, 806 26 72, ARM3c, USNR - VT-34
*Received from U.S.S. ASPRO.
Exchanged motion pictures and a few bridge flares, as well as
some provisions. VHF was perfect for the situation. GABILAN's
seamanship was outstanding.
2144 Enroute GUAM. Had APR signals on 79, 155, 181,
209, 160 mcs. during night.
2358 Lookout sighted exhaust of plane. Dived.

20 July (-9) 1200: 31-16N 140-12E

0103 Surfaced on four engines.
0139 Sighted two white flares bearing 292.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

0217 Transmitted RUNNER SIXTH reporting GABILAN
ASPRO's 16 fliers aboard, patrol results, and transit
information.
0249 Strong APR signal on 178 mcs. Dived to 200'.
0324 Surfaced on four engines.
0930 178 mcs. signal back again, this time weaker.
0939 Sighted unidentified plane bearing 182. Dived.
1006 Surfaced.
1141 Sighted floating mine (Mine contact #3). Manned
40mm and our crack 40mm crew exploded mine with second shot.
1259 Strong APR signal on 178 mcs.
1300 Sighted plane bearing 090. Dived to 200'.
1540 Surfaced on four engines.
1842 Sighted friendly submarine bearing 254. Exchanged
recognition signals and calls with STEELHEAD.
2125 SJ radar interference from friendly northbound sub
passing to westward of us bearing 325.

21 July (-9) 1200: 26-09N 139-22E

0151 APR signal on 178 mcs.
0403 Weak SJ radar contact at 4,700 yards, bearing 090.
Put it astern.
0549 Sighted friendly northbound submarine bearing 205.
Spoke him.
0559 Sighted second friendly northbound submarine bearing
274.
0749 Sighted plane bearing 210 at about ten miles. It
appeared to be a friendly bomber.
1311 Sighted TB4Y2 and established VHF communications
with him.
2014 SJ interference to southeast. It remained with
us until 2340.
2228 SJ interference bearing 080.
2236 Exchanged recognition signals and calls with south-
bound QUILLBACK.

22 July (-9) 1200: 20-16N 140-07E

0832 Sighted plane bearing 212, distant 12 miles. He
passed without sighting us.
1258 Dived for training. 1501 Surfaced.
1933-2005 SJ radar interference from HADDOCK and PALOA.
Exchanged recognition signals by SJ with one of these.

23 July (-9) 1200: 17-00N 144-05E

0855 Submerged for trim and training, went to test depth
to check for leaks.

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U.S.S. RUNTER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE
                                                                ABC

1145 Surfaced.
1158 Exchanged calls with southbound QUILLBACK.
1508 Submerged.
1659 Surfaced.

24 July 1200: GUAM

0535 Made rendezvous with GUNNEL.
0654 Made rendezvous with QUILLBACK and SC1337, enroute
GUAM under escort.
1100 Moored.

(C) WEATHER

     The weather to the northwest of MIDWAY and off HONSHU
in July was mild. Seas were condition 1 to 4, except for
the period 17 to 19 July when they increased to condition 5.
Skies were completely overcast at night and in the morning
off HONSHU, with limited visibility due to a fog. Usually
the fog dissipated by noon. Navigation was almost entirely
piloting. The NGA fathomoter was invaluable.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

     In July off the east coast of HONSHU a southerly current
varying between 0.5 knots just south of SHIOYA SAKI (Lat. 37N)
and 1.3 knots off TODO SAKI (39-30N) was experienced. The
OYASHIO southerly current was felt as far south as 36N, even
though the Asiatic Pilot gives its southern limit as 38N.
25 miles off the coast, at Lat. 37N, no appreciable current
was experienced over a 48 hour period, which indicates that
the KUROSHIO and OYASHIO currents neutralize each other in
this vicinity.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

     The Aviation Charts furnished by Comsubpacad were found
to be excellent for close inshore work. These aviation charts
shownumerous shore installations, such as radio towers,
factories, and conspicuous smokestacks which are not shown on
H.O. Charts.

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ABC

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

(F) SHIP CONTACTS

| No. | (I) Time Date | Lat(N) Long(E) | Types | Est. Initial Range | Est. Cse. Spd. | How Cont. | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 2115 5/7 | 26-00 143-37 | Wake | 800 yds | unknown N LO | D | Dived |
| 2. | 0729 7/7 | 38-32 141-34 | Ship Smoke | 13 miles | 180 18 | D SP | Tops not seen |
| 3. | 1715 7/7 | 38-32 141-34 | Patrol Boat | 3 miles | 180 8 | D SP | Avoided |
| 4. | 1317 7/9 | 39-10 141-58 | 1 AO 1 PC-1 | 5 miles | 000 10.5 | D SP | Attack #1 missed |
| 5. | 0320 7/10 | 39-33 142-09 | Ship Smoke | 5 miles | 180 10 | D SP | Ship not seen |
| 6. | 0535 7/10 | 39-33 142-08 | 1 AO | 4 miles | 000 10.5 | D SP | Same AO as No. 4 |
| 7. | 1032 7/10 | 39-28 142-07 | 1 AM-13 (EU) | 7.5 miles | 000 13 | D QB Snd S | Pinging heard. Sank him. |
| 8. | 0821 7/11 | 38-34 141-43 | 2 Patrol Boats | 3 miles | 180 8 | D SP | Avoided |

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS.

Few enemy planes were encountered, even while patrolling
close to the beach. The one good torpedo target sighted did
not have an air cover. This reduction in aircraft anti-
submarine measures came as a pleasant surprise. Aircraft
conducted a random bombing off TODO SAKI before our attack
on an escort vessel and planes appeared on the scene to
assist in the hunt after/sank him.
we

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476)
Time 1335 I Date 9 July 1945 Lat. 39-10N Long. 141-58E
TORPEDO ATTACK No. 1, PATROL No. 1.
n WBM

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description 1 sugar able medium with raked bow, cruiser stern, square
            bridge, two masts with two heavy cargo booms trussed up
            to each mast. Had platform decks for deck load but no
            topsides cargo seen. Escorted by one PC-1 and one AM-13.
            Sighted smoke by periscope while patrolling the east coast
            of HONSHU in high visibility.

Ship sunk None

Ship damaged or probably sunk None

Target draft 14' Course 020°(T) Speed 10.5 kts. Range 1600 (at firing)
                                OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 2.5 kts. Course 290°T Depth 65' Angle 1° Up (at firing)
                            FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Type attack Day periscope attack. Obtained target speed by plot and
            TDC using periscope stadimeter ranges plus two ST ranges
            at 5,650 and 2,140 yards to check masthead height at 90
            feet. Spread 6 torpedoes 2° apart, from forward aft,
            using offset dial. Checked bearing before 5th shot and it
            was on within 15'.

| | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes fired | 113S | 115S | 118S | 120S | 123S | 125S |
| Track angle | 29°50'R | 30°R | 30°10'R | 30°20'R | 31°R | 32°R |
| Gyro angle | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' |
| Depth set | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' |
| Power (knots) | 27.8 | 27.8 | 27.8 | 27.8 | 27.8 | 27.8 |
| Hit or miss | miss | miss | miss | miss | miss | miss |
| Erratic | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Mark torpedo | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Serial no. | 100610 | 100512 | 100216 | 100516 | 100657 | 100591 |
| Mark exploder | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 |
| Serial no. | 17330 | 16728 | 8427 | 16727 | 16705 | 16739 |
| Actuation set | contact | contact | contact | contact | contact | contact |
| Actuation actual | - | - | NONE | - | - | - |
| Mark warhead | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Serial no. | 3981 | 5300 | 2475 | 1385 | 5692 | 2595 |
| Explosive | torpex | torpex | torpex | torpex | torpex | torpex |
| Firing interval | 0 | 8 | 7½ | 10 | 9 | 8 |
| Type spread | 5°R | 3°R | 1°R | 1°L | 3°L | 5°L |
| Sea conditions | Smooth, ripples, but no whitecaps |
| Overhaul activity | Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor |
| Remarks | Misses and attributed to target turning away during salvo. |
| | Observation of target at time torpedoes were expected to hit |
| | showed target had turned more than 90° away. Used temperature |
| | of electrolyte 68°F and injection temperature 55°F. |

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476)
Time 1108 I Date 10 July 1945 Lat. 34-20N Long. 142-07E
TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description A modern A/S vessel with clipper bow, tripod foremast,
            straight stack slightly raked, with smoke deflector at top,
            stick mainmast, gun on forecastle, another between stack and
            mainmast, two projections near stern like Y guns, and a very
            long stern. Resembled the AM-13 in many respects, but he may
            have been larger, possibly a new type DE. Sighted by peris-
            cope by daylight after QB sound gear heard pinging. Target
            had been seen the day before and carefully observed after an
            attack on a tanker he was escorting.

Ship sunk One AM-13 class (EU)

Ship damaged or probably sunk None
Damage determined by Firing times Calculated Explosion Times
                                    Torp runs.
            1       1108 37         620 yards
            2*      1108 45         590 yards       1109 22
            3*      1108 52         550 yards       1109 29
            4*      1108 59         515 yards       1109 33
            5       1109 07         490 yards
            6       1109 15         (hot run in tube)
* Three timed hits and immediate loud breaking up noises
  heard in all compartments through the hull.
Target Draft 9' (est) Course 347°(T) Speed 13 Range 900 yards (at firing)
                                OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 2.5 kts. Course 181°T Depth 65' - 104' Angle 27° Up to 10° Down
                                                            (At firing)
Type Attack Day periscope attack. Kept bow toward target to minimize his
            probability of detecting us by echo ranging and to avoid his
            closing us without our being able to shoot at him first.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476)                                                              WE
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) TORPEDO ATTACK No. 2, PATROL No. 1.

|             | #1      | #2        | #3        | #4        | #5        | #6        | Tubes fired | S30     | S31       | S32½      | S36½      | S40½      | S46       |
| Track Angle | 20°R    | 20°30'R   | 22°R      | 23½°R     | 25½°R     | 27½°R     |
| Gyro Angle  | 4'      | 4'        | 4'        | 4'        | 4'        | 4'        |
| Depth set   | 27.8    | 27.8      | 27.8      | 27.8      | 27.8      | 27.8      |
| Power       | Miss    | Hit       | Hit       | Hig       | Miss      | *         |
| Hit or Miss | No      | No        | No        | No        | No        | *         |
| Erratic     | 18-2    | 18-2      | 18-2      | 18-2      | 18-2      | 18-2      |
| Mark Torpedo| 100575  | 100008    | 58101     | 100636    | 100004    | 99359     |
| Serial No.  | 8-7     | 8-7       | 8-7       | 8-7       | 8-7       | 8-7       |
| Mark Exploder| 11026   | 16719     | 8159      | 9824      | 16454     | 16516     |
| Serial No.  | Contact | Contact   | Contact   | Contact   | Contact   | Contact   |
| Actuation Set| None    | Contact   | Contact   | Contact   | None      | *         |
| Actuation Actual| 18-2  | 18-2      | 18-2      | 18-2      | 18-2      | 18-2      |
| Mark Warhead| 4053    | 4747      | 4018      | 5157      | 2647      | 4598      |
| Serial No.  | Torpex  | Torpex    | Torpex    | Torpex    |

— page 67 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL MMBER ONE
(I) MINES
Three floating mines were encountered, all of the
horned type.
Mine #1 | 33-53N | 162-11E | Sank with 20mm
Mine #2 | 36-16N | 144-23E | Lost sight of it
Mine #3 | 31-19N | 140-15E | Sank with 40mm

(J) ANTISUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS
/S measures following the two attacks were ineffective
and no new techniques were observed. Evasion was aided by a
strong negative gradient between 50 and 100 feet on both
occasions. Evasion tactics consisted of keeping the stern to-
ward the A/S vessels. It is not believed that the A/S ships
had contact with us at any time during the patrol.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE
Hull and Machinery
Periscopes: The attack periscope has blurred optics,
making straight vertical masts look bowed. Fogging was bad.
Grit in the bearings hampered training on some bearings, and
the tube is slightly scored. The hydraulic piston rod pack-
ing leaks oil. Eye piece buffers are still primitive.
However, this periscope trains beautifully except on the
bearings where there is grit, and it does not leak.
The ST periscope trains only with much effort, it fogs
badly, the piston rod packing leaks, and it leaks much salt
water even at periscope depth. The best of attention was
given our periscopes in PEARL and by Ship's Force. We
eliminated some of the fogging from the attack scope by
circulating dry nitrogen through it. It is recommended that
a major effort be made to improve the above well-known
deficiencies of our submarine periscopes. Our modern sub-
marinos deserve better periscopes than we have.

Ordnance
A six torpedo attack was made with the bow tubes.
Torpedoes were Mk. 18. The first torpedo was launched at
64 feet, at which time deep submergence was ordered. The
last torpedo was fired at a control room keel depth of 104
feet with a 100 down angle. Impulse pressures was 250 lbs

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U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE
ABC

on the first shot. As depth was increased pressure was built
up and had reached 300 lbs. when #6 tube was fired. (Current
instructions call for 400 lbs. impulse pressure for firing
at 90 feet to 120 feet). #6 torpedo was heard running in
the tube and the outer door could not be shut. Circumstances
did not permit attempts to eject the torpedo for several hours.
The boat was then taken to 150 feet and a large down angle
put on the ship at the same time that we backed down full.
By blowing air into the tube simultaneously, the torpedo was
ejected from the tube and the outer door was shut. The
guide stud slot was found scored slightly and the torpedo
tail guide stud was recovered from the tube. No other ab-
normal conditions were found. The firing key had been held
down for 4 full seconds. The casualty is attributed to
shooting with less than the required impulse pressure. To
prevent recurrence of this casualty a man is now stationed at
the impulse manifold knocker valve. His sole duty is to take
earlier action to build up impulse pressures if the boat
starts down while shooting.

(L) RADIO

TBL motor generator was out of commission for 20 hours
with a motor ground caused by periodic soaking when negative
tank was vented. In its present location it receives the
full benefit of a bilge water shower when negative is vented.
Since relocation is considered impractical at this time, it
is felt that a mushroom around the vent opening and a suit-
able shielding around the assembly will minimize this defect.
VHF was inoperative 4 hours due to condenser C-102-11 in
the transmitter unit shorting out. We strongly recommend
that boats be furnished spares for this equipment.
Sub Skeds were received best on 9050 kc and 13655 kc
for NPN and 9090 kc for NPN. Signal strength was S-4 to S-5
most of the time and never less than S-3. Little difficulty
was experienced in copying. Average reception was good to
excellent.
On 17 July, while running submerged at 50 feet, manning
lifeguard frequencies, GUAM was received strength 4 on the
SD antenna and good copy was obtained. Position was Lat.
36°-57'N, Long. 142°-31'E.
Runner serial one (145 groups) was sent Urgent on 6
July and receipted by NPN 15 minutes after opening up. Six min-
utes later it was received on NPN schedule, total elapsed time
21 minutes.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

Miscellaneous

VHF communications with aircraft was quite dependable,
and is a great aid in plane to ship identification.
No difficulty was experienced in communicating on SAFFIAN.
Two serials were missed, due to the long period
submerged. It would be beneficial if the important messages
were transmitted at least three times between 1200 and 1700
ZEBRA. There are slack periods during this time when it
would be possible to repeat essential messages better to
insure receipt.

Ship - Shore Communications

Six messages were sent on ship to shore circuits, 3 to
NPM and 3 to NPN. 4235 kcs was used in all cases. Reception
was good except during transmission of serial five when
interference from JAP CW signals made it necessary to repeat
several portions of the message.

No difficulty was experienced with regards to authenti-
cation. The present system of requiring a station to
authenticate their reply when responding to a properly
authenticated call up is very satisfactory and certainly speeds
up communications, as well as removing uncertainty as to who
is answering. Provided no mistakes are made, this is quick
further exchange of communications, this is quick and
efficient.

(M) RADAR

In the area the SD-5 was kept in an operating condition
ready to key.
SD and SJ operation was satisfactory. Although the
ringtime was maintained from 2500 to 3000 yards on the ST
and 5800 to 6300 yards on the SJ, no phenomenal ranges were
obtained. SD ranges were obtained on friendly submarines at
8000 to 13500 yards, and on land at 34000 to 44000 yards.
The SJ was little used in the area, but was kept in
operating condition with the high voltage turned off in order
to pick up any 10 cm interference. Several attempts were
made at SJ communication with friendly submarines with some
poor results. High voltage rectifier current
and voltage fell below normal. Corrected by replacing the 836's
in the High Voltage Rectifier. On the surface in the area,
thorough sweeps were made every 5 minutes on the SJ. Fre-
quent tuning was required. Ranges on land were obtained at
20000 to 27000 yards and on patrol craft and friendly sub-

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE

marines at 7000 yards. ST lost all ringtime. Found that
the Shepard-Pierce Oscillator had shorted and burned out R12
cathode bias resistor. Replaced R12, crystal, and klystron.
Operation normal. Found that one of our spare klystrons was
bad. ST lost all ringtime again. Attempted to retune and
found only one mode of operation of the klystron, crystal
current low. Found proper voltages were being applied to
the klystron. While attempting to tune klystron, R12 burned
out again, then found the klystron (our last) had burned out
also. This left us with no ST for the remainder of the
passage to base. Recommend more than 200% spare klystrons.
APR operation was normal. Replaced 2X2 rectifier tube
when all indication was lost on SPA scope. Operation nor-
mal. The gain was kept at maximum. Signal strength of APR
signals in section U is given as the minimum gain setting
for a saturated signal. If saturation was not reached with
maximum gain setting, strength is given as scale (the
pulse height in calibrated divisions on the scope).

(N) SONAR GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound conditions were much better than in the HAWAIIAN
area. Many fishermen were heard before they were seen. We
have excellent battle station soundmen who contributed valuable
information during attacks and evasion. JP bearings have
been very accurate.
Contact on the escort, sunk 10 July, was made by the QB
operator who picked up the pinging before visual contact was
made. New topside mounting of QB has never been too
satisfactory. Training is noisy unless speed of rotation is
kept low. The training motor which was mounted upside down
could not be properly lubricated because the oil cup was lo-
cated on the bottom of the bearings. This was remedied by
putting a copper tube in the opening, leading it above the
level of the bearings, and filling the tube with oil. This
should be corrected in future installations.
JK-QC operation was satisfactory until the sound head
was damaged on 5 July. After damaging, the head could be
raised slightly, but it could not be raised.
We were favorably impressed by the performance of the
X-1 Sonaramic. It was in use at all times while submerged.
Even though it was in use many hours, no casualties or
failures of the equipment occured.
On 5 July the X-1 picked up pinging from a small escort
on 14 kcs. Frequency of pinging varied between 14 and 16 kcs.
This pinging was heard clearly on JP.

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CONFIDENTIAL
[UNCLEAR: 4BC]
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE.

On 6 July picked up pinging from a small craft on 11 kc.
Picked it up a while later at 12 kc.
Other pinging was picked up by the X-1 at different
times during the patrol on the following frequencies: 12.5,
13, 13.4, 10.5, and 10 kcs. It is obvious that most of the
smaller JAP escorts are using this low frequency band be-
tween 10 and 14 kcs. No high frequency pinging was heard.
When the JK-QC sound head was damaged, it was necessary
to connect the X-1 to the QB head. This was accomplished
without much difficulty and operation was normal.
. QLA maintenance.
(a) Bearing check revealed bearings as much as 6° off.
Removed all play from sinepot connection. Bearings checked.
(b) Lost video signals on scope. Faulty plug contacts
in #2 analyzer and indicator caused this. Corrected but
faulty plug contacts caused this fault to recur.
(c) Time delay element of amplifier power relay shorted
out causing AC input fuses to blow. Replaced K203 relay and
time delay element. Operation normal.
(d) Channel #8 inoperative. Found R494 open. By trial
and error method attempted to put proper resistance across
terminals 2 and 3 of 428. Replaced V404 and V413. Operation
improved, but sensitivity below normal.
(e) Filled gear box of training motor with oil to de-
crease noise which appeared on scope. Operation improved.
Replaced V107 and V112.
(f) Operation normal. Flyback noise still appears on
scope. Operating temperature of gear was very high.
(g) Recommend 4 patch cords instead of 3 to aid in
maintenance.
(h) Recommend that information be issued to boats on
routine for preventative maintenance.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS
(3 July to 19 July 1945 east coast of HONSHU between 36-20N
and 40N)

Abrupt negative gradients were encountered in this area.
Temperature variations at the same depth necessitated
practically continuous flooding and pumping while maintaining
periscope patrols. Whether these variations were due to
internal waves or horizontal gradients or both was not de-
termined. BT cards are being submitted to VCNO.

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CONFIDENTIAL                                                              APC
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY

     The health of all hands was excellent throughout the
patrol. The food was of high quality and was tastefully
prepared. Habitability was good.

(Q) PERSONNEL

     (a) Number of men detached after previous patrol - none.
     (b) Number of men on board during patrol - 84.
     (c) Number of men qualified at start of patrol - 40.
     (d) Number of men qualified at end of patrol - 43.
     (e) Number of unqualified men making their first patrol -
44. The nature of this first short patrol did not permit
qualification to proceed as far as desired. By the end of the
next patrol most of our men will be qualified.
     We have an excellent crew well trained and studded with
veteran submariners. Their performance reflects credit on
the Submarine Force training program.
     Officer performance has been excellent.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED

     PEARL To Area     3564 miles 62,700 gallons
     In Area           2207   "   25,820   "
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓] Area to GUAM      1661   "   15,525   "

     Total             7432       104,045

(S) DURATION

     Days enroute to area          11
     Days in area                  16
     Days enroute to GUAM           5
     Days submerged                13

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

     Torpedoes         Fuel        Provisions   Personnel Factor

     6 Mk 18-2         29,000      40
     6 Mk 14-3A
     3 Mk 27
     3 Mk 28
     Limiting factor this patrol - terminated by CSP des-
patch orders.

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(A) TAUROIDM
- as -
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE
(U) COMMUNICATION COUNTERMEASURES
ABC
ONE
Effective jamming was encountered only once during this
patrol. That was at 071330 Z (July) while receiving NPM on
6045 kc. It consisted of two keyed CW signals, both strength
4, and both sweeping in frequency back and forth across the.
channel. Keyed CW signals were occasionally heard on sked
frequencies, but were ineffective. Interference appeared to
reach a peak when receiving authenticator on receipt for a
message. No new jamming was experienced, and the amount
was normal.
APR contacts:
DATE FREQ SCALE POSIT SKETCH REMARKS
TIME REP RATE
PULSE WIDTH
6-2 80/350/22 ---- 36-01N ------ When SD was keyed
1805 150-03E signal increased.
- as - Short rapid sweeps.
6-3 150/350/60 Sat 7 36-35N Land based air search
2310 141-41E non-directional.
6-4 150/850/10 Scl 5 36-20N Possible aircraft,
---- 148-08E none sighted.
6-5 78/400/100 Sat 3 36-43N Shore based air search.
2300 141-24E
0100 156/--/12 Scl 3 36-45M Sweeping every 100
141-10E seconds.
6-6 151/480/12 ---- 39-07N Shore based air search.
0200 142-33E
6-10 153/400/10 ---- 39-24N Probably JAP MK 1
0030 142-43E Mod 3 AS radar.
0200 153/250/23 ---- 39-34N Probably shore based
142-36E AS radar
6-13 CW contact from 180 mc. to 205 mc. Very strong at 180,
0100 188, 192, 200, and 205. Rep rate read 5000. Pulse
seemed to move along time base.
36-47N
141-37E
(A) TAUROIDM - as - E CLOSURE (A)
- 25 -

— page 74 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE
ABC
0130 A jamming signal of some sort that came in at irregular
intervals. At one time saturated the scope. APR meter
read 50 micro-amps.
6-14
0714 156/---/5
Scl 2
36-43N
140-58E
Type unknown.
0740 116/250/100
cl 3
Same
Shore-based AS
radar.
6-15
1900 218/50/7
Scl 2
36-53N
Fast sweep. Type
un' nown.
2100 220/125/--
Scl 4
36-53N
141-12E
Possibly air or
ship-borne.
6-18
2020 147/400/10
Scl 1
36-34N
141-30E
Had contact for
only an instant.
Probably shore
based AS.
6-19
2025 161/1000/35
Scl 5
34-04N
140-55E
6-20
0930 178/75/12
Scl 6
6-21
2000 210/500/6
Scl 2
24-01N
139-14E
2300 207/1000/
Scl 2
18-41N
142-03E
Irpe unknown.
Sighted Aircraft.
Believed it may
have been AS radar
on a-picket boat.
Fast sweep or
keyed possible
aircraft.
SONAR COUNTERMEASURES
NONE
(V) REMARKS.
This patrol was primarily for a special mission. However,
we patrolled the beach along the east coast of HONSHU every day
that was not utilized by our special mission or lifeguard
services, and were able to make two attacks in less than one
week's patrolling. It is almost certain that torpedo targets
are routed amly along the beach. Unless recent strikes have chang-
ed the situation, we believe that a boat will finä torpedo targets

— page 75 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER ONE.

off SHIODA, off OSU, or off the coast just south of TODO
SAKI. The latter location has several advantages. No
radar is thought to be located at TODO or nearby. The
water is deep there within a mile of the shore.

— page 76 —
SUBMARINE DI ISION THREE FORTY-TWO
c/o Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

26 July 1945

CONFIDENTIAL
F5-342/A16-3

Serial: (06)

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to:
USS RUNNER (SS476)
Conf. Ltr. S94/A16-3
Serial (035) of 24 July 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Division THREE FORTY-TWO.
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY-FOUR.
 (2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet
 Administration.
 (3) The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: USS RUNNER (SS476) - Report of War Patrol Number ONE.

1. The First War Patrol of the USS RUNNER under the experi-
enced command of Commander F.H. BASS, USN, was conducted off the
east coast of Honshu during the period of 23 June to 24 July 1945.
A total of sixteen days were spent in the area in the performance
of a special mission, life guard duties and patrol.

2. Two torpedo attacks were made and are summarized as follows:

 (a) Torpedo Attack #1; 9 July 1945:

 While patrolling submerged, sight contact was made on
a medium sized tanker with two escorts. A good firing position was
reached and six (6) Mark 18 torpedoes were fired on about 118° track
at a range of about 1100 yards. Torpedoes were set for a depth of six
feet and were fired 2° apart. All torpedoes missed, which is attribut-
ed to the target being alerted and making a radical turn away. Target
speed was 10.5 knots. After pursuit this target was again sighted on
10 July but could not be closed sufficiently for an attack.

 (b) Torpedo Attack #2; 10 July 1945:

 Pinging was detected by JP sound gear and a No. 7 class
AM-13 was sighted by periscope. Six (6) Mark 18 torpedoes set for a
depth of 4 feet were fired on about 35° track which resulted in three
timed hits. The range was about 900 yards and the target speed was
13 knots. The torpedo in No. 6 tube stuck and ran hot. The arrival
of three anti-submarine vessels prevented clearing this torpedo for
several hours. This casualty is attributed to insufficient impulse
pressure at the depth attained when this tube was fired.

- 1 -

— page 77 —
CONFIDENTIAL
FB5-342/A16-3
CUAMARINE DI ISION TREE FORTY-TWO
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California
Serial (06)
Subject: US PUNER (S5476)
26 July 1945
eport of War Patrol number ONE.

3. The remarks of the commanding officer concerning the need
for diligent attention to prevent fouling of the conning tower hatch
as occurred during a dive on 2 July are thoroughly concurred in.

4. On 19 July a rescued aviator was received from USE ASPRO.
Because of rough seas, the commanding officer prudently decided upon
another rendezvous to effect the transfer of the 15 aviators rescued
by USS GABILAN,

5. The recommendation by the commanding officer that addition-
al spare Klystrons be carried for the ST radar is noted.

6. The RUNNER arrived from patrol very clean and in an ex-
cellent material condition. Faulty periscopes will be checked and
the sound head damaged on 5 July will be replaced. It is expected
that all work will be accomplished during a ten day refit period..

7. The Division Commander congratulates the commanding cffice
officers and crew upon the completion of their first patrol, the
accomplishment of a special mission and the sinking of an enemy
combatent ship.

[SIGNATURE: E.B. MCKINNEY.]

— page 78 —
COMMANDER SUBMARINE SQUADRON THIRTY-FOUR

FC5-34/A16-3                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial ( 032 )                              San Francisco, California.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L.                    28 July 1945.

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
FIRST WAR PATROL, U.S.S.
RUNNER.

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

Subject:     U.S.S. RUNNER (SS 476) - Report of First War
             Patrol.

1.           Forwarded, concurring in remarks of Commander Sub-
             marine Division THREE FORTY TWO.

2.           The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY-FOUR heartily
             congratulates the Commanding Officer, the Officers and crew for the
             successful accomplishment of a particularly dangerous mission and
             for the sinking of a valuable enemy combatant vessel. It is of
             note that the results of the Special Mission were of great signif-
             icance and aid to the successful accomplishment of the mission of
             one of our large Task Forces.

             [SIGNATURE: E. W. Grenfell]
             E. W. GRENFELL

— page 79 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial 01970
CONFIDENTIAL
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
RUNNER Report of
First War Patrol.
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
6 August 1945.
NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.
SORG
mr
COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 839
U.S.S. RUNNER - FIRST WAR PATROL.
From:
To :
Via:
Subject:
1.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) Report of First War Patrol
(23 June to 24 July 1945).
The first war patrol of the RUNNER, under the command of Comman-
der R. H. Bass, U.S. Navy, was conducted off the East Coast of Northern Honshu.
2.
During this well planned, aggressive patrol, the RUNNER accom-
plished a very important special mission, which is the subject of a separate
report, performed lifeguard duties, and conducted an offensive patrol. Although
maintaining thorough, alert area coverage, the RUNNER was afforded no opportunity
to effect rescue. Two enemy contacts worthy of torpedo fire were made and ag-
gressively attacked. Unfortunately, in the first attack the target avoided the
torpedoes. The second attack resulted in three hits in a ship similar to a No.
7 Class AM.
3.
4.
Award of Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol is authorized.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
commanding officer, officers, and crew of the RUNNER for the successful accom-
plishment of a hazardous mission and the sinking of an enemy combatant ship
during the first war patrol of the new RUNNER. The RUNNER is credited with hav-
ing inflicted the following damage upon the enemy during this patrol:

SUNK
1 - AM (Similar to No. 7 Class) (EU) - 600 tons (Attack No. 2).

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7)
CNO (5) Connorpac (1)
Cincpac (6) Consubspac (3)
JICPOA (1) ConsubspacAd Cond (40)
AdICPOA (1) SUBAD, MI (2)
Conservpac (1) ConsubspacSubordcon (3)
Cinclant (1) All Squadron and Div. (8)
Comsubslant (2) Commanders, Pacific (2)
S/M School, NL (1) ConSubOpTraGrBalboa (Air) (5)
CO, S/M Base, PH (2) Substrainpac (2)
Comsopac (1) All Submarines, Pacific (1)
Consowespac (2) [SIGNATURE: E. L. Hymes, 2nd]
Comsubs7thFlt (Fwd Echelon) (2) E. L. HYMES, 2nd,
Comsubs7thFlt (Rear Echelon) (2) Flag Secretary.

— page 80 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

SS476/A16-3
Serial 046

U.S.S. RUNNER

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

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander in Chief, U. S. Fleet.
Via: The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-THREE.
The Commander Submarine Squadron TEN.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476), Report of War Patrol
number TWO.

Enclosures: (A) Subject report.
(B) RUNNER Opord No. 1-45 covering passage of
PEACEMAKERS from Area Three to TOKYO BAY.
(C) RUNNER Opord No. 2-45 covering passage of
submarine group from TOKYO to PEARL.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Second War Patrol
of this vessel, conducted off the east coast of HONSHU during
the period 12 August to 31 August 1945, is forwarded herewith.
Also included herein is a report of the submarines participating
in the surrender of the JAPANESE in TOKYO BAY and the subsequent
passage of these submarines from TOKYO to PEARL.

[SIGNATURE: R. H. Bass]
R. H. BASS.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OPRBC] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

141956 [STAMP: FILMED]

— page 81 —
CONFIDENTIAL
WBM
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER TWO.
(A) PROLOGUE

     24 July 1945, arrived GUAM from First War Patrol and
commenced 10 day refit under Commander Submarine Division
THREE FORTY TWO, alongside FULTON. Drydocked. Had three
days' tests and training with Captain E.B. MCKINNEY, USN as
Training Officer, followed by two days' training with Vice
Admiral C.A. LOCKWOOD, Jr., USN, and Commander W. B. SIECLAFF,
USN, as Training Officers.

     CSS 34, CSD 342, FULTON, and CAMP DEALEY all aided in every
possible way toward making our recreation, refit, and training
at GUAM pleasant and constructive. At the end of the refit the
ship was inspected by the Squadron and Division Commanders and
was turned back to us in a very clean and shipshape condition.

(B) NARRATIVE

Officers on board                                        Age     Prior
                                                                 Patrols

Commander R. H. BASS, USN                                35      8
Lieutenant Commander C. V. GORDON, USN                   29      4
Lieutenant V. UTKE-RAMSING, Jr., USNR                    26      10
Lieutenant H. M. DORAN, Jr., USN                         25      1
Lieutenant E. J. FANNON, Jr., USN                        24      6
Lieutenant (jg) G. C. BLOUNT, USNR                       24      1
Lieutenant (jg) J. J. CLANCY, USN                        23      4
Lieutenant (jg) L. L. OKERBLOM, Jr., USNR                20      1
Ensign C. E. KERR, USN                                   24      1
Ensign E. W. CARPENTER, USN                              28      5

Chief Petty Officers

W. E. MOORE, CTM(PA)(SS), USN                            27      9
R. A. CAMPBELL, CMOMM(PA)(SS), USN                       38      7
E. H. HENDRIX, CPhM(T)(SS), USNR                         29      5
D. CORBISIERE, CCS(PA)(SS), USN                          30      11
A. F. LAFAYETTE, CMOMMAA(T)(SS), USN                     25      7
R. L. BENJAMIN, CEM AA(T)(SS), USN                       25      4
E. R. KOVACS, CEM AA(T)(SS), USN                         22      7

                               - 1 -

                                                         ENCLOSURE (A)
                                                         [HANDWRITTEN: 990]
                                                         [HANDWRITTEN: .3]

— page 82 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER TWO.

12 August (-10)
WBM
1459 Underway for Second War Patrol pursuant to CSP
OPORD 195-45 in company with TRUTTA. Joined escort at entrance.
Zigging. Conducted daily exercises and fire control drills,
fired guns at balloon-filled matress cover targets, and made
numerous drill dives.

Proceeding via ADAM'S APPLE and NECK enroute to JAPAN SEA
for patrol.

13 August (-10) 1200: 17-21N 144-06E
14 August (-10) 1200: 20-13N 140-18E
2300 Parted company with TRUTTA.

15 August (-10) 1200: 25-14N 139-08E

0000 RUNNER became flagship for division 342.
0945 Received CSP serial 32 directing all ships of his
force to cease hostile acts but to be alert for enemy offensive
action.
1300 Received CSP orders to proceed to MOUTH and await
further orders.

16 August (-10) 1200: 29-40N 139-10E

0500 Received CSP orders to proceed to patrol a point in
CORRIDOR.
1225 Sighted TWO mines (Mine Contacts Nos. 1 & 2).
Exploded both with 40 mm gun.

1845 Received CSP orders to proceed to patrol area three.
Proceeded.

17 August (-10) 1200: 33-20N 138-55E

Enroute area three.
1145 Sighted MIKURA and HACHIJO SHIMA.
1220 Submerged to pass between MIKURA and HACHIJO.
Experienced 4 knot easterly current in KURISHIO.
2020 Surfaced.

18 August (-10) 1200: 35-15N 141-42E

0541 Submerged.
1241 Surfaced.
1301 Submerged

- 2 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 83 —
CONFIDENTIAL
WBM
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATRON NUMBER TWO.

1943 Surfaced.
2200 Received CSP orders to acknowledge serials 32 and 38.
2303 Sent RUNNER second, acknowledging CSP serials 32
and 38.

19 August (-10) 1200: 37-15N 142-26E
Patrolling in area three.

20 August (-10) 1200: 37-42N 144-36E
21 August (-10) 1200: 37-35N 144-25E
22 August (-10) 1200: 37-15N 144-19E

2210 Received CSP serial 50 ordering RUNNER and eleven
other subs to participate in TOKYO BAY surrender.
2330 Transmitted our elated acknowledgement.

23 August (-10) 1200: 37-23N 144-14E
24 August (-9) 1200: 37-24N 144-16E
25 August (-9) 1200: 38-35N 144-40E
26 August (-9) 1200: 38-14N 144-47E

2315 Received CSP serial 65 with further instructions
for rendezvous of BENNY'S PEACEMAKERS with MADDOX and for
passage to TOKYO BAY.

27 August (-9) 1200: 38-00N 144-33E
28 August (-9) 1200: 37-48N 144-40E
29 August (-9) 1200: 37-53N 144-01E

1935 Exchanged recognition signals and calls with
CAVALLA by SJ

30 August (-9) 1200: 37-48N 143-20E

0915 Sighted ARCHERFISH and passed Opord to her.
1024 Sighted MADDOX and several submarines. RUNNER
delivered Opord to DD and all subs in turn via well known
container and line throwing gun. MADDOX aided in rounding up
the last boat.
1207 Passed Opord to last boat and formed up as follows
with 800 yard distance and 2000 yard interval:

- 3 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 84 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER TWO.
WBM

Left Column                                        Right Column
ARCHERFISH                                         RUNNER
CAVALLA                                            GATO
MUSKALLUNGE                                        SEACAT
RAZORBACK                                          TIGRONE
HADDO                                              *HAKE
*PILOTFISH
M.DDOX

* When they joined the following morning.
Proceeded via prescribed route at 17 knots.
1600 Sent following message to MADDOX (DD731): WE ARE
PROUD TO BE SIGNED UP WITH YOU IN THE GREAT THIRD
THE BIG SHOW IN TOKYO. He replied: YOU SUB PEOPLE DON'T
HAVE TO TAKE YOUR HATS OFF TO ANYBODY X AS FOR TOKYO YOU
WERE PROBABLY THERE LAST WEEK.
2219 While on course 218, radar contact bearing 107,
20,000 yards. Other friendly forces at 23 knots on a converging
course headed for TOKYO. 2214 Changed formation course to 240.
2349 Above contact clear. Changed formation course to
218.

31 August (-9) 1200: TOKYO BAY

0326 MADDOX investigated light bearing 260, 7 miles, and
reported it was SEGUNDO and her prize. Thereafter sighted
numerous U.S. and British forces.
0514 WREN (DD568) relieved MADDOX as escort. Instructed
HAKE and PILOTFISH to form up astern of right and left columns,
respectively, and to come up on SCR 610. Proceeded into SAGAMI
WAN.
0928 Changed formation to single column, distance 500
yards, to proceed through swept channel.
1017 Entered TOKYO BAY. Thanked and released WREN. As
he departed he sent subs this message "YOU MAKE A FINE SIGHT."
It was great to be there. It was such a beautiful day in
spite of the low rainy, misty weather. (Reminded us of
our favorite song, "Oh, What a Beautiful Morning" from
"Oklahoma"). Proceeded at full speed to PROTEUS and at 1042
the first of eleven U.S. Subs moored alongside.

1438 Underway to shift berths. 1701 back alongside
PROTEUS inside the breakwater at the YOKOSUKA Naval Base, a few
hundred yards from the damaged NAGATO and three captured MIP
subs.

- 4 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 85 —
CONFIDENTIAL                                                              WBM
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER TWO.

1 September (-9) 1200: YOKOSUKA.

2 September (-9) 1200: YOKOSUKA.
RUNNER aided in the commissioning of SUBR SE YOKOSUKA.

3 September (-9) 1200: 34-43N 139-28E

0923 Last of TOKYO BAY Submarines underway for PEARL
pursuant to CSS 20 despatch order. RUNNER acting as group
commander.
0938 Dived to 80 feet in the sacred waters of TOKYO BAY.
0940 Surfaced. MUSKALLUNGE made short dive. Formed subs
in column for sortie. Proceeded through swept channel to point
off NOJIMA SAKI.
1217 Took departure and set course for PEARL. Changed
formation to two columns, 1000 yard distance, 3000 yard interval.
Formation follows:

Left Column                                        Right Column

ARCHERFISH                                         RUNNER
MUSKALLUNGE                                        PILOTFISH
HAKE                                               CAVALLA
TIGRONE                                            GATO
HADDO                                              RAZORBACK
SEGUNDO

1330 Sighted carrier group bearing 130, 10 miles, on
northerly course.
1402 Executed "TURN 160" to clear carrier group.
1423 Executed "105 TURN" to resume former course. Enroute
PEARL, subs pulled out of formation at discretion to conduct
ISE, including dives.

4 September (-10) 1200: 33-27N 146-49E

5 September (-10) 1200: 32-23N 154-05E

6 September (-11) 1200: 31-08N 161-15E

7 September (-11) 1200: 29-47N 168-45E

2117 HAKE left formation and headed for MIDWAY with
possible peritonitis case on board.

8 September (-11) 1200: 28-34N 174-52E

0100 Transmitted RUNNER's fourth regarding 1630 Zed posits
and rendezvous for group.
0700 Received Comsubpacadcom acknowledgement of RUNNER's
fourth.

- 5 -                                              ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 86 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER TWO.

2320 passed westbound APA 45 bearing 057, 10 miles.

9 September (412) 1200: 24-05N 173-52W

10 September (411) 1200: 22-08N 168-20W
0015 HAKE rejoined formation.
1602 Pulled ahead of formation. Made surface approach and a
multiple attack, then dived for additional attacks and deep
submergence.
1825 Surfaced and rejoined formation.
1830 Received rendezvous despatch.

11 September (411) 1200: 21-04N 162-28W

12 September (49½) 1200: PEARL.
0710 Made rendezvous with PC 485.
0940 Moored Sub Base, PEARL.

- 5a - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 87 —
[UNCLEAR: WBM]
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF W.R. PATROL NUMBER TWO.

(C) WEATHER

The weather north of GUAM and off the east coast of
HONSHU in August, and from TOKYO to PEARL in September was as
per pilot charts.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

No data on tides. A four knot easterly current was exper-
ienced submerged between I.KURA and H.CHIJO SHIMA on 17 August
1945.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

No new data.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS

No enemy ship contacts.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

No enemy aircraft contacts.

(H) ATTACK DATA

No attacks.

(I) MINES

Two horned type floating mines were encountered within
200 yards of each other. Both were exploded with the 40 mm.
gun.

Mine #1 29-44N 139-07E
Mine #2 29-44N 139-07E

(J) ANTISUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

None

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

None.
The reliability of the Fairbanks engines, Elliot Main
Generators and Main Motors, and Westinghouse Controls is
worthy of special mention.

- 6 - ENCLOSURE (L)

— page 88 —
WBM
TWO

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER TWO

(L) RADIO
    No new data.

(M) RADAR
    No new data.

(N) SONAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS
    No new data.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS
    No unusual density layers were encountered.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, HABITABILITY
    One man was turned in with catarrhal fever for three days.
    Otherwise health was excellent. Food was of high quality and
    tastefully prepared. Habitability was good.

(Q) PERSONNEL
    (a) Number of men detached after previous patrol - 7
    (b) Number of men on board during patrol - 83
    (c) Number of men qualified at start of patrol - 42
    (d) Number of qualified men at end of patrol - 59
    (e) Number of unqualified men making their first patrol - 6

    The spirit of the crew during this period has naturally
    been very high. School of the boat, the educational program,
    and general drills have received added attention.
    Four officers have been recommended for "qualification in
    Submarines" during this period.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED
    GUAM to Area        1759 miles    29,000 gallons
    In Area             -1647 "       13,000 "
    Area to TOKYO         382 "        8,000 "
    TOKYO to PEARL       3602 "       40,000 "

    Total               7390 "       90,000 "

(S) DURATION
    Days enroute to area        7
    Days in area               12
    Days enroute area to TOKYO  1
    Days enroute TOKYO to PEARL 10

- 7 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 89 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PUNNER (SS476) - REPORT OF WAR PATROL NUMBER TWO.
Days submerged 12

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
Torpedoes | Fuel | Provisions | Personnel Factor
6 Mk. 14-3A | 80,000* | 60* | 60*
2 Mk. 27 | | |
21 Mk. 18 | | |
* Upon departure Area 3 for TOKYO.
Limiting factor this patrol - terminated by CSP despatch
orders at end of war.

(U) COMMUNICATIONS COUNTERMEASURES
None

(V) REMARKS
When the effectiveness of our submarines is evaluated for
future planning, it is recommended that the generally inferior
quality of JAPANESE antisubmarine measures be kept carefully
in mind.

- 8 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 90 —
CONFIDENTIAL
B-43/A16-3

Serial: N-0116

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476)
War Patrol No. 2

From : The Administrative Commander, Submarine Division FORTY-THREE.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron TEN.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(3) The Commander-in-Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - Report of Second War Patrol.

1. The second war patrol of the U.S.S. RUNNER under the command
of Commander R. H. LASS, U. S. Navy, was conducted in Empire waters off the east-
ern coast of HONSHU. This patrol was of thirty two (32) days duration, twelve
(12) of which were spent on station, and three of which were spent moored in
MORTO BAY.

2. As the "cease firing" order was received prior to RUNNER's
arrival on station, the patrol was uneventful. Two floating mines were destroyed.

3. The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. RUNNER assumed command of the
"PEACE MAKERS", consisting of RUNNER, ARCHERFISH, CAVALLA, GATO, MUSKALLUNGE,
SEACAT, TIGRONE, RAZORBACK, HADDO, HAKE and PILOTFISH for the purpose of pro-
ceeding to TOKYO BAY for the surrender ceremonies. The Administrative Division
Commander is proud, as a member of the Submarine Force, to have been represented
on this momentous occasion by these worthy members of the force.

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-THREE

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

[SIGNATURE: W. P. Gruner Jr.]
W. P. GRUNER, Jr.

— page 91 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON TEN
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California.
17 September 1945.
11/jhc

FC5-10/A16-3
Serial: ( 0308 )

CONFIDENTIAL

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) -
Report of War Patrol
Number Two.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron TEN.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET,
Administration.
(2) The Commander-in-Chief, United States PACIFIC
FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. RUNNER (SS476) - Report of War Patrol
Number Two.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the
Commander Submarine Division FORTY-THREE.

2. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Command-
ing Officer, officers and crew of the U.S.S. RUNNER upon the
completion of that vessel's Second War Patrol.

[SIGNATURE: g.g. Peterson]
G. E. PETERSON.

— page 92 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18) [HANDWRITTEN: Prelges]
Serial 02387 SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

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

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
RUNNER Report of DESTROYED PRIOR TO
Second War Patrol ENTERING PATROL AREA.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 923] [HANDWRITTEN: Renumbered 870 11/15/45]
U.S.S. RUNNER - SECOND WAR PATROL. [HANDWRITTEN: File by old no.]

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. RUNNER (SS476) - Report of Second War Patrol
(12 August to [HANDWRITTEN: 12 Sep] 31 August 1945).

1. The U.S.S. RUNNER, under the command of Commander R. H. Bass,
U.S. Navy, departed for her second war patrol but did not reach her assigned
patrol area prior to the time hostilities with Japan were terminated.

2. The commanding officer of the RUNNER acted as group commander
of the eleven U.S. submarines which entered Tokyo Bay and were present with
units of the Third Fleet during the official surrender of the Japanese
Government.

3. The award of the Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol is
not authorized.

4. This report is forwarded in order to complete the war record of
the U.S.S. RUNNER.

G. C. CRAWFORD,
Chief of Staff.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7) ComSubspac (3)
CNO (5) ComSubspacAdComd (20)
Cincpac (6) SUBAD, MI (2)
JICPOA (1) ComSubspacSubordcom (3)
Conservpac (1) All Squadron and Div. (2)
Cinclant (8) ComSubOpTraGr (Airmail) (5)
Consubslant (2) Commanders, Pacific (1)
S/M School, PH (2) [HANDWRITTEN: All Submarines, Pacific (1)]
CO, S/M Base, PH (1)
Comsopac (2) [HANDWRITTEN: C & H Hynes]
Comscwespac (1)
Consubs7thFlt (Fwd Echelon) (2) E.L. HYNES, 2nd,
Consubs7thFlt (Rear Echelon) (2) Flag Secretary.
Comnorpac (1)