U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS-196) — war patrol report SS-196_SEARAVEN_Part1.pdf

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2 - USS SEARAVEN (SS 196)

Five days later, on 23 April 1942, a serious electrical fire broke out in the main power cubicle causing complete immobilization of the submarine. Through the courageous and intelligent actions of many of the officers and men, the fire was brought under control.

Lieutenant Francis D. Walker, USN, the executive officer; D. W. Curry, Chief Electrician's Mate, USN; and R. Rickart, Chief Electrician in this near catastrophe. Rickart in company with Lieutenant Walker entered the maneuvering room from the after torpedo room, while the fire was still raging, and succeeded in placing the main motor and generator controllers in neutral position so that auxiliary electrical power was obtained long enough to transmit a radio message reporting the ship completely disabled and requesting aid. In addition, this medal was also awarded to E. E. Wood, Electrician's Mate First Class, USN, who, with Curry, entered the machinery spaces and between the two of them, both wearing submarine escape lungs, they succeeded in closing certain sea valves and starting necessary motor generators for the radio transmitters.

USS SNAPPER (SS 185) came to SEARAVEN's rescue and towed her to Australia. This third patrol was adjudged successful and the combat insignia was awarded.

SEARAVEN's fourth patrol was uneventful but at the end of her 58-day fifth war patrol the submarine was credited with the sinking of approximately 23,400 tons of enemy shipping and seriously damaging 6,853 tons. This patrol terminated at Fremantle, Australia, on 24 November 1942, where refit was effected by Submarine Squadron Six Relief Crew and submarine tender personnel. The Submarine Combat Insignia was awarded for this patrol.

On 18 December 1942 SEARAVEN started her sixth war patrol which lasted for 55 days and was conducted in the vicinity of the Banda Sea, Ceram Sea and Palau Island.

While in the Banda Sea on New Year's Eve 1942, three torpedoes were fired at the ITSUKU SHIMA, an enemy minelayer. The evidence of its sinking was not conclusive enough to claim a kill. On 14 January 1943, the Latitude 9-12 N., Longitude 130-38 E., Searaven sank two ships with four torpedoes. The ships were the freighter SIRAHU MARU and the escorting vessel, #1 GANJITSU MARU, which totalled 5,890 tons. The patrol was completed on 10 February 1943, SEARAVEN arriving at Pearl Harbor for the first time since the war had commenced. The combat insignia was awarded for this patrol.

On 12 February the submarine sailed for Mare Island, California, for a complete Navy Yard overhaul. This was completed on 7 May 1943 and SEARAVEN returned to Pearl Harbor on 25 May.

The seventh war patrol started from Pearl Harbor on 7 June 1943 and was conducted in the vicinity of the Marianas Islands. It lasted 51 days of which two were spent in reconnaissance of Marcus Island,

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12 days on a special mission, and 12 days in the assigned area. The total of 26 days in the area were unproductive of any damage to the enemy but contact with a new type of plane resembling a P-38 was spotted in the vicinity of Marcus Island. The patrol ended at Midway Island on 29 July 1943 with USS SPERRY handling the refit. The combat insignia was not authorized.

SEARAVEN left Midway on 23 August 1943 on her eighth war patrol. The operating area, the northeastern coast of Honshu, Japan, was barren of worthwhile targets and the patrol terminated at Pearl Harbor on 6 October 1943 with no combat insignia being authorized. The patrol lasted 49 days, of which 29 were spent in the area.

On 9 October 1943, Lieutenant Commander Cassedy was relieved as commanding officer of SEARAVEN by Lieutenant Commander Melvin H. Dry, USN.

The ninth patrol began on 3 November 1943 and was made in the Eastern Caroline Islands and extended over a period of 50 days, 31 of which were spent in the assigned area. For three days SEARAVEN operated as a unit of a wolfpack along with USS SCULPIN (SS 191). They were used as a part of a defensive screen during the Gilbert Islands Operation.

On 25 November a KYOKUTE MARU Class tanker was sunk with four torpedoes. Twenty-seven depth charges were dropped by enemy escorts but with no apparent attempt to kill. The boat returned to Pearl Harbor in time for Christmas with a tale to tell of the one they got on 25 November and the one, just as big, which got away on 6 December. The Submarine Combat Insignia was awarded for this patrol.

The submarine's tenth war patrol, in the Marshall, Caroline, and Marianas Islands, commenced on 17 January 1944 and was of 46 days duration with 30 spent in the assigned area. Her mission was that of photographic reconnaissance of Eniwetok Atoll and to render life guard services in that area.

No torpedoes were expended but three American aviators were rescued from a rubber boat. SEARAVEN was then only four miles from Truk and the the fires of burning enemy freighters, set off by planes from USS YORKTOWN, were visible. The patrol terminated at Midway on 3 March 1944, and the combat insignia was subsequently awarded.

The eleventh patrol started on 26 March 1944 from Midway and was conducted in the southern Nanpo shoto (Bonin Islands) area. This patrol was of 49 days duration with 30 days spent in the assigned area. Three contacts were made which were worthy of torpedoes. Two attacks were made, resulting in sinkings in each case.

On 6 April, a nicely conducted submerged radar approach on a convoy of eight ships was frustrated when SEARAVEN, after going to periscope depth, sighted an escorting destroyer. The enemy ship was observed to

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4 - USS SEARAVEN (SS 196)

turn directly toward SEARAVEN at a range of 700 yards, forcing the submarine to immediately turn over the initiative to the enemy. Upon surfacing, an alert escort prevented a direct closing of the convoy. While making an end-around after daylight and radar contact nine miles distant, followed minutes later by a bomb as SEARAVEN passed the depth of 120 feet, further prevented closing of the convoy and contact could not be regained.

On 9 April, while patrolling at periscope depth in a choppy sea, two close depth bombs were received from a plane.

On 17 April, a position for submerged attack was gained on a convoy of two ships and two escorts. Four torpedoes were fired at one of the ships resulting in two hits and the sinking of a 5,000-ton cargo ship. Further attack on this convoy was prevented by counter attack of the escorts which held SEARAVEN down.

On 6 May, an end-around run on a ship sighted by the high periscope watch placed SEARAVEN in position for a submerged attack. Three torpedoes were fired at a range of 950 yards, resulting in one hit and the sinking of the target -- a yacht-type escort vessel.

This patrol ended at Pearl Harbor on 14 May 1944, where the submarine was completely overhauled in the Navy Yard. The Submarine Combat Insignia was awarded and the submarine was credited with sinking one freighter of the KYOKUSE MARU Class of 5,500 tons and an escort vessel of 1,000 tons.

The Okhotsk Sea, Kurile Islands area, was the assignment of SEA-RAVEN on her twelfth war patrol. The submarine left Pearl Harbor on 15 August 1944 and spent 34 days of the 52-day patrol in the assigned area before returning to Midway on 6 October 1944. A total of 12 enemy vessels were sunk for 5,050 tons and two damaged for 1,500 tons. Numerous surface gun actions highlighted this patrol as one of the most outstanding for gun engagements of the war. The combat insignia was awarded for this patrol.

The first torpedo attack, at night on the surface on 21 September 1944, was made on a convoy of two cargo ships with three escorts. Four torpedoes were fired from the bow tubes at an overlapping freighter and escort. One hit was probably obtained on the escort as indicated by the time of the torpedo run and subsequent actions of the convoy.

An hour and a quarter later, another night surface attack was made against a freighter which had left the convoy and was steaming unescorted. Four torpedoes were again fired, this time from the stern tubes, and one hit was obtained. Gradual disappearance from the radar screen at 3,500 yards indicated that it sank.

Earlier in the patrol, on 4 September, a 50-ton diesel-propelled fishing trawler was engaged with the 4-inch .50 caliber gun at 2,500 yards and with .50 caliber and 20 millimeter automatic weapons at

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closing ranges. The target was seen to sink. A prisoner was picked up who mentioned there had been a crew of 14 on board.

On the night of 25 September, two trawlers of approximately 200 tons each, four large sampans of 100 tons, and four 50-ton sampans were engaged in one of the most unique submarine surface gun engagements of the war. SEARAVEN passed down the column of eight sampans and two trawlers, 250 yards abeam, and engaged from one to three at a time practically point blank range. Those that did not sink on the first pass were given another dose of the same treatment until all were destroyed.

The next night SEARAVEN opened fire with the deck gun and automatic weapons at 300 yards on what was thought to be some type of small craft. However, illumination caused by four 4-inch hits permitted it to be identified as a 232-foot mine-layer. Fortunately the Jap wore caught off guard and SEARAVEN was able to switch from gun attack to torpedo battle stations, after which three torpedoes were fired at the target. No hits were evident and it was believed that the torpedoes ran under the enemy ship. The explosions of 33 depth charges heard while SEARAVEN was retiring at flank speed on the surface.

On 20 October 1944, Lieutenant Commander Raymond Berthrong, USN, relieved Commander Dry as commanding officer of the submarine.

The thirteenth and final war patrol of SEARAVEN was made in company with USS PAMPANITO (SS 383), USS SEACAT (SS 309), and USS PIPE-FISH (SS 338) as a coordinated attack group, with Captain F. W. Fenno, Jr., USN, as task group commander. The patrol was conducted in the China Sea, east of Hainan Island, during the period of 1 November to 25 December 1944; a period of 55 days.

On 18 November, two night radar torpedo attacks were conducted against a small freighter and its escort which had separated from a convoy previously attacked that day by PAMPANITO. Neither of the attacks were successful.

On 3 December, radar contact was made at a range of 24,000 yards on a convoy consisting of at least seven ships plus their escorts. Four attacks were made with torpedoes which resulted in SEARAVEN dispatching one transport of the HEIAN MAUR type of 11,600 tons and an oiler of the OMUROSAN MAUR type of 9,200 tons. A 10,000-ton tanker of the GINYO MAUR type was damaged by SEARAVEN's torpedoes that night and later the enemy ship was torpedoes and sunk by SEACAT. This made a grand total of 25,800 tons for SEARAVEN, half credit being given for the latter tanker.

SEARAVEN returned to Pearl Harbor on Christmas Day 1944 to finish her combat career with this patrol for which the Submarine Combat Insignia was awarded.

After combat career had ended, SEARAVEN was assigned to target and training duties.

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On 6 January 1945, Lieutenant Commander Theodore M. Ustick, USN, relieved Lieutenant Commander Berthrong as the submarine's commanding officer.

During the month of April 1945, SEARAVEN operated alternately between Pearl Harbor and the Naval Air Station, Kaneohe, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii, furnishing training services to naval aircraft.

On 5 May, Lieutenant Commander Roy C. Smallwood, Jr., USN, relieved Lieutenant Commander Ustick as commanding officer.

Several days after V-J Day, SEARAVEN sailed for California and on 15 September 1945 was in Tiburon Bay in the San Francisco Bay area, standing by to return to her home yard at Mare Island.

SEARAVEN was one of the target ships in the 1946 atomic bomb test, Operation Crossroads, at Bikini. She was one of the nine vessels which escaped the bomb tests with negligible damage.

By Directive dated September 1948, USS SEARAVEN was to be disposed of by the Navy by burning, sinking, abandoning or other such means.

SUMMARY OF WAR PATROL RESULTS

| Number and Type of Ships Sunk: | 1 destroyer |
|||
|                                 | 2 escorts      |
|                                 | 3 freighters    |
|                                 | 2½ tankers     |
|                                 | 1 transport     |
|                                 | 3 trawlers      |
|                                 | 8 sampans       |
|                                 | 1 unknown      |

Total Tonnage Sunk: 66,490 tons

Number & Types of Ships Damaged: 1 minelayer
1 minesweeper
1 escort
1 unknown

Total Tonnage Damaged: 10,323 tons

Number of Aviators Rescued: 35

NOTE: All estimates of sinkings, tonnage, and types sunk are taken from the commanding officer's evaluations during the war patrols.

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7 - USS SEARAVEN (SS 196)
USS SEARAVEN (SS 196) earned ten Battle Stars on the Asiatic-Pacific Area Service Medal for participating in the following operations and engagements:

1. Star/Philippine Islands Operation -- 9 December 1941 to 19 January 1942
1. Star/Marshall Islands Operation
   Air attacks designated by CinCPac on defended Marshall Islands targets -- 27 January 1944
1. Star/Asiatic-Pacific Raids -- 1944
   Truk Attack -- 16-17 February 1944
   Marianas Attack -- 21-22 February 1944
1. Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 28 January to 12 March 1942
1. Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 27 September to 24 November 1942
1. Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 18 December 1942 to 10 February 1943
1. Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 3 November to 23 December 1943
1. Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 26 March to 14 May 1944
1. Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 15 August to 6 October 1944
1. Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 1 November to 25 December 1944

STATISTICS

OVERALL LENGTH: 311 feet
BEAM: 27 feet
SPEED: 21 knots
DISPLACEMENT: 1,450 tons

Rewritten: September 1951

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0-513
DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST, 55th R.S. SEARAYEN (SS196) BY 0/04/24 DATE 9/5/24
From: Commanding officer.
To: Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET.
Subject: War Patrol No. 1 - Report of. SCARAYEN
Enclosure: (A) War Diary; War Patrol No. 1.
(B) Track Chart; War Patrol No. 1.
(C) Radio Log; War Patrol No. 1. - [Handwritten text]

1. Enclosures (A), (B) and (C) are forwarded.

T.C. Aylward
T. C. AYLWARD

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1942

Area: Initially off northwest corner TAIWAN. Later shifted to area off SUBIC BAY; then to eastern end BASILAN STRAIT; then an area south of TINACA POINT; then an area to westward of MENADO (CELEBES).

Zone time kept: Minus eight.

A. At 1830 on December 9, 1941, underway from MARIVALIS. Proceeded through mine field and at 2000 passed through Point AFTIRM. Set east coast TAIWAN. At 2115 on December 17, 1941, arrived on station and took up patrol. Patrol led area until midnight December 26, at which time set course for MANILA following general route taken on way up in accordance with CSAP 251245 which prescribed the routing. On December 29, shortly before midnight, received CSAP 291348 (serial 41) which stated that submarines could no longer be safely serviced in MANILA and that control was being shifted to PORT DARWIN. Inasmuch as SEARAVEN was aneroute MANILA for servicing and since we were off northern coast of LUZON, made decision to head for PORT DARWIN via east coast LUZON and MOLUKKA PASSAGE; set course accordingly. At 2150 on December 30, received CSAP 301237 (serial 47) assigning SEARAVEN to new area off SUBIC BAY. At 2200 set course for new area. At 1946 on December 31, depth charge attack made on us by two enemy destroyers (see sections E and H following). At 2100 on January 1, 1942, arrived in new area off SUBIC BAY and took up patrol. At 1840 on January 6, set course for PORT DARWIN via APO EAST PASS, SIBUTO PASSAGE and MOLUKKA STRAIT. Decision to leave station was based on following: (1) unknown condition of starboard main motor reduction gear previously salted up due to a leaky lub oil cooler; (2) no traffic in area; (3) food supply getting low. During evening of January 7, received CSAP 071135 (serial 64) routing SEARAVEN to PORT DARWIN via BASILAN STRAIT and MOLUKKA PASSAGE. Inasmuch as we were headed for SIBUTU PASSAGE, changed course to head for BASILAN STRAIT. During evening of January 8, received CSAP 080940 (serial 68) to patrol off eastern entrance to BASILAN STRAIT until relieved by SALMON (CSAP 080948 serial 70). Reached this new area at 2300 on January 9, and took up patrol. At 2050 on January 10, set course at best speed for new area south of TINACA POINT LIGHT in accordance with CSAP 100932 (serial 78). Arrived in new area at 1200 on January 11, and took up patrol. At 2155 on same day, received CSAP 110405 (serial 82), ordering us to new area off west coast CELEBES at port of MENADO. Set course at best speed for new area at 2200. Arrived in new area at 2100 January 12, and took up patrol. Observed several very bright patches of light on beach, apparently large fires. During night of January 12 - 13 tried

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U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - REPORT OF FIRST WAR PATROL -

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to get a message off to CSAF via radio DARWIN giving information as to our low food supply. Could not get message off as radio DARWIN kept telling us to wait. At 1900 on January 13, set course for PORT DARWIN via north end CLEBBES and MOLUKKA PASSAGE. Decision to leave station was based on remaining food (5 days supply). Sent message to CSAF informing him of our actions (SEARAVEN 131200).

Rendezvous off PORT DARWIN was set for 0300 on January 19, 1942. We surfaced early the evening of the 18th in order to obtain a star fix so that exact rendezvous could be reached without loss of time. A good star fix was obtained and course was set to arrive at position at appointed time. The patrol boat was to show a light at intervals commencing at 0200. At 0158 sighted four searchlight flashes bearing 130 degrees (T), distant about 7 miles. Changed course to head for this light but after proceeding necessary distance to arrive at rendezvous, could neither see nor hear patrol boat. Searched area for several hours without success. Finally sighted searchlight glow bearing 270 degrees T., just over the horizon. Set course for search light and finally contacted patrol boat. At 0546, Lieut.-Comdr., M. C. Humma, U.S. Navy, came aboard as pilot. Set course at best speed for PORT DARWIN and at 0615 moored starboard side to PERCH along port side OTUS.

B.

From time of underway from MARTVALES until midnight, December 11, weather was fine and clear with moderate seas. From this later time on during the entire patrol enroute to, at and enroute from TAIWAN, the weather was bad with wind from force 3 to 5, N.E., and seas condition 3 to 8, N.E. On some days the ship rolled and pitched several degrees even while at a depth of 115 feet. When the seas were partially heavy, it was impossible to hold the ship at periscope depth without broaching. Skies in general were overcast with frequent driving rain squalls. Around TAIWAN the barometer gave no indication of bad weather - the reading averaged around 30.10 and bad weather persisted even if the barometer rose. As the SEARAVEN worked her way south from SUBIC BAY the weather became fine again with generally clear skies, gentle winds and calm seas. However, the visibility around BASILAN STRAIT and south of TINAGA POINT was particularly bad around sunset, there seeming to be a low haze and heavy cloud banks all around the horizon at this time. Around MENADO the sea and wind were moderate but the frequency of heavy rain squalls greatly reduced visibility. These squalls originated mostly in the northwest.

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U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - REPORT OF FIRST WAR PATROL -

Enroute south to PORT DARWIN, the seas were generally glassy calm, wind force 1-2 and visibility reduced by heavy cloud banks.

C.

In general, tides and currents were observed to be as given in Coast Pilots and as shown on the charts. On December 14, going through the BASHI CHANNEL, a set of 1.5 knots to the north was observed whereas an east-west set was expected. On December 16, proceeding up east coast of TAIWAN and in the Japan Stream, we observed a set of 1.5 knots to the northwest instead of to the northeast as expected. During the patrol in area off northwest corner of TAIWAN a set to the north and northeast was continually observed rather than the southwesterly set shown on charts.

D.

Excellent star fixes were obtained by moonlight whenever conditions were such as to obtain them. The fathometer was an indispensable aid when no celestial or terrestrial fixes could be obtained. In addition, the following navigational lights were observed burning:

(1) FORTUNE ISLAND and CABHA ISLAND.

(2) SUMUCHO (SANCHO) KAKU and HUKA SHU (AGINCOURT ISLAND) (TAIWAN).

(3) TUNGYUNG TAU. However, Light List shows it as 3 flashes every 20 seconds, but it was actually 3 flashes every 15 seconds.

(4) TURNABOUT ISLAND and TUNGCHIIAN (MIDDLE DUG).

(5) HARUSHA KO.

(6) APU EAST PASS.

E.

On December 9, at 2230 and again at 2330, sighted what appeared to be friendly merchant ships (one at each of above times) in position 42 miles bearing 270 degrees T., from point AFFIRM. Both ships were on course approximately 090 degrees T., speed 10 knots.

On December 17, at 1015, in latitude 26-02 N., Long. 121-39 E., sighted three small merchant ships in company on course 210 degrees T., speed 10 knots. Picked up band of noise by sound while at 11o feet, but heard no clear propeller beat. Came up to 65 feet

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U.S.S. SEARAYEN (SS196) - REPORT OF FIRST WAR PATROL -

but one ship was so close aboard had to turn away to get clear. Ships were past firing range by the time we could get into position.

On December 22, at 0346 in Lat. 25-37.5 N., Long. 120-57 S., sighted two white lights on two ships on course 235 degrees T., speed 7 knots, range 1,000 yards. Made night attack though driving rain made it difficult to see. (See section G). At 1500 on December 25, in approximately same position as just given, sighted two small sailing sanpans. These were apparently equipped with listening gear as they clung on to us until we surfaced at 1930, at which time we "bent on" four engines and got clear. One boat fired two flares or rockets after we had surfaced.

On December 25, at 0845, in Lat. 25-21 N., Long. 120-39.6 E., while at 110 feet, heard screws. Came up to periscope depth and saw merchant ship on course 210 degrees T., speed 14 knots, range 3,800 yards; angle on bow 90 degrees port. fired one torpedo. (See section G).

On December 31, at 1946 in Lat. 18-30 N., Long. 119-02.5 E., sighted two ships on course 275 degrees T., speed 15 knots, range 4,000 yards. Ships turned out to be enemy destroyers who must have seen us as we saw them - we were silhouetted against rising moon. Enemy changed course towards us at high speed and made two hour depth charge attack. (See section H).

On January 9, 1942, at 0115, saw green and red flares (emergency recognition signal for the day) bearing 280 degrees T., distant about 3,000 yards. These were rocket flares and were quite high. Nothing could be seen by way of ships and signals may have been made by army post at ZAIBOANGA.

On January 14, at 2045, what appeared to be a green Verys flare was seen bearing 120 degrees T., distant about 1500 yards. At this time the visibility was low, about 1,000 yards, and nothing could be seen. Stopped all engines and searched by sound for an hour but heard nothing so continued on toward PORT DARWIN. This reported flare might have been a lightning flash as a number of such flares were observed during the night and appeared to resemble green flares. Position at this time 60 miles bearing 345 degrees T., from LIFOREMATOLA ISLAND.

F. None sighted.

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U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - REPORT OF FIRST WAR PATROL -

G.

At 0315 on December 22, fired two torpedoes at leading light using T.D.C. Point of aim was light. Enemy course 235 degrees T., speed 7 knots, range 800 yards; torpedo run 700 yards; own course 000 degrees T., speed 5 knots, gyro angles 12 degrees and 14 degrees L.; track angles 67 degrees and 69 degrees port. No hits. Night attack; visibility bad.

At 0855, on December 25, fired one torpedo at enemy merchant ship using T.D.C. Point of Aim foremast; enemy course 208 degrees T., speed 14 knots, range 3,200 yards; torpedo run 3,300 yards; own course 110 degrees T., speed 3 knots; gyro angle 14 degrees port; track angle 122 port. Missed. Periscope approach.

H.

No enemy anti-submarine measures taken by merchant ships fired on December 22, and 25.

On December 31, at 1946 attacked with depth charges by two enemy destroyers. Attacks lasted for about two hours. Three patterns of charges were dropped by enemy; first of four depth charges at a range of approximately 800 yards; second of eleven depth charges at estimated range of 400 yards - this attack shook the ship slightly but did no damage; third attack of ten depth charges at range of 600 yards, estimated. Enemy passed directly overhead twice and although his supersonic sound bearings were good, his ranging was off. After each attack, enemy slowed to listen and to "ping". When he speeded up for attacks the "pinging" stopped, apparently showing that their supersonics can be used only at slow speeds. SEARAVEN was at depth of 170 feet and ran at 1/3 speed until attack started then went ahead at standard speed until attack was over. Also attempted to keep stern toward enemy while he was listening. Zig-zagged and "fish-tailed" during enemy search. Could not definitely state depth setting of enemy charges but all appeared to detonate on same level or above our depth.

I.

On December 22, just before surfacing at 1800, it was found that starboard main motor reduction gear lub oil cooler had developed a leak. There was some salt water in the lub oil but apparently the leak had just developed. Remained submerged until sump was pumped. Refilled with fresh oil and ran through reduction gears. Cut out starboard cooler and used port cooler for both reduction gears after surfacing at 1845. Sea was rough at this time and oil could be safely pumped. On surfacing, ran clear of oil slick. Lub oil cooler is a tender spare but CANOPUS had none in stock;

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U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - REPORT OF FIRST WAR PATROL

one we ordered last July, 1941, has not arrived. During night
December 22-23, found that lub oil was leaking out of leaky
cooler. While submerged on December 23, removed lub oil cooler
from No. 1 auxiliary engine and installed in place of bad cooler.
This put No. 1 auxiliary engine out of commission but it was
more important to have reduction gears in working order. Since
"salting up" of this reduction gear, have had considerable trouble
with rust in lub oil system and abnormally hot bearings.

On December 25, at 0850, when preparing tubes for firing,
found that shutters on tube No. 1 could not be fully opened.
This identical casualty occurred before, according to the records
and originally was caused by bumping a buoy while moored in a
typhoon.

J.

The first part of this patrol, i.e., enroute to, at, and
enroute from the area of northwest corner of TAIWAN was marked
by extremely heavy weather and lack of targets. There was
surprisingly little traffic through this area. The latter part
of the patrol, in areas south of MANILA, was marked by generally
good weather but only fair visibility.

In connection with patrols in rough weather - it is imperative
to have a plentiful supply of good binoculars as they don't stand
up long after being continuously soaked by salt water. Extreme
care was taken with our glasses but even so, quite a few pairs
were rendered useless by spray.

Apparently a common fault in all our submarines is that of
periscope hoist cables. Ours appears to be strained and weak and
from despatches received it is noted that a number of submarines
had trouble along this line. The weakness of the cables is
apparently due to the severe use the cables are put to in war
time which is immeasurably greater than in peace time.

SEARAVEN left MANILA on patrol the day after the war started
and most of that time was spent underway standing by to avoid
air attack. Consequently no one got ashore or to the tender to
stock up on cigarettes, tobacco, toilet necessities, etc., and
hence all hands ran low or out of these things before the patrol
was over. The cigarette and tobacco supply was exhausted about
ten days before we terminated the patrol, and the lack of this
was felt acutely.

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U.S.S. SEARAYEN (SS196) - REPORT OF FIRST WAR PATROL

Watch sections worked out well. During the period 0600 to 1800 a four section watch was maintained and from 1800 around to 0600 the following day, two sections stood watch and watch, changing every three hours. This latter period, though actually night time, was our daytime and vice-versa. Standing watch in the above manner insured an adequate number of men to man all necessary stations both on the surface and while submerged.

Garbage and trash was disposed of each night by throwing overboard in weighted sacks. In this connection it is necessary to have plenty of old weights available on board.

Meals were served as follows: breakfast 1900; dinner 0000; supper 0630. The dinner meal proved unpopular and was replaced by soup.

T.C. C. AYLWARD,
Lieut-Commander, U.S. Navy, Commanding.

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U.S.S. SEARAVEN
TRACK CHART
WAR PATROL NUMBER 1.
DECEMBER 9, 1941 to JANUARY 19, 1942.
SHEETS 1 to 23 INCLUSIVE SCALE 1" equals 20 miles.

NOTE: Sheet 4 and 10; 5 and 9 combined as they cover same area.

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1. Enclosure (A) Report of Second War Patrol - Forwarding of.

2. Enclosure (A) Report of Second War Patrol (23 pages).

409. En

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1. In reply refer to
: 2. U.S.S. SEARAVEN (serial 35196)
: 3. Report of Second War Patrol.
: 4. Period from January 28, 1942 to March 12, 1942.
: 5. Area: SOUTH CHINA SEA.
: 6. Zone Time Kept: Minus E ght.
: 7. A - Narrative.
: 8. Wednesday, 28 January
: 9. 1700 Underway from alongside OTUS in PORT DARWIN, escorted by U.S.S. PEARY.
: 10. 1730 Passed through boom gate.
: 11. 1845 Escort vessel hauled off and left us. Set course for BURU ISLAND at best speed so as to get beyond 100 fathom curve as soon as possible.
: 12. Thursday, 29 January, South of MALAY BARRIER proceeding north.
: 13. 2230 Received Commander Submarines, Asiatic Fleet 291240 (serial 99) directing us to proceed north via WETAR STRAIT.
: 14. 2242 Set course for WETAR STRAIT.
: 15. Friday, 30 January, South of MALAY BARRIER proceeding north.
: 16. Saturday, 31 January. Proceeding North through eastern end WETAR STRAIT. [At 0230 received Consubs, Asiatic Fleet 301548 (serial 4) ordering us to proceed toward MANIPA STRAIT via route west of WETAR. Inasmuch as we had already gone through the eastern end of the STRAIT, sent message to Consubs, Asiatic Fleet to this effect (SEARAVEN 301845). Could get no receipt for this message.]
: 17. Sunday, 1 February. Proceeding north from WETAR to MANIPA STRAIT.
: 18. 0245 Received Consubs, Asiatic Fleet 311620 (serial 9) directing SEARAVEN proceed CARTAAN BAY via MANIPA STRAIT, BANGKA PASSAGE, SIBUYU PASSAGE and BILABAC STRAIT and south of the "dangerous ground" in SOUTH CHINA SEA.

- 1 -

— page 42 —
1. SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SS196/A12
Serial: C-514
U. S. S. SEARAVEN
CONFIDENTIAL

Monday, 2 February. Proceeding through MOLUKKA PASSAGE enroute patrol station off CAIRANH BAY.

0035 Sighted submarine on opposite and parallel course (160 T) bearing 015 degrees T., distant 6000 yards. It had the silhouette of our "P" class and inasmuch as we were passing through TARPON and SHARK areas, we were expecting to sight either or both of these ships. We both turned away and cleared area.

Tuesday, 3 February. Proceeding through MOLUKKA PASSAGE enroute patrol station off CAIRANH BAY.

0126 Sighted enemy destroyer (HIBINI class). Proceeded to attack by periscope, submerged.

Wednesday, 4 February. Proceeding through BANGKA PASSAGE enroute patrol station off CAIRANH BAY.

Thursday, 5 February. Proceeding through CELIBES SEA toward SIBUTU PASSAGE enroute patrol station off CAIRANH BAY. Went through SIBUTU PASSAGE submerged during daylight hours. Received Consubs, Asiatic fleet 051555 (serial 36) outlying data for patrol.

0625 Sighted enemy merchant ship in eastern entrance of SIBUTU PASSAGE. Range too great for attack.

Saturday, 7 February. Proceeding through SULU SEA toward BALABAC STRAIT enroute patrol station off CAIRANH BAY.

Sunday, 8 February. Proceeding through SULU SEA toward BALABAC STRAIT enroute patrol station off CAIRANH BAY. Ran through BALABAC STRAIT submerged during daylight hours.

2005 About 25 miles southwest of BALABAC STRAIT, lookouts sighted red flare bearing 175 degrees T., distant about 2000 yards. Could see or hear nothing so proceeded on course.

Monday, 9 February. Proceeding on a westerly course southward of the "dangerous ground" to patrol station off CAIRANH BAY.

Tuesday, 10 February. Proceeding on a westerly course southward of the "dangerous ground" to patrol station off CAIRANH BAY.

2345 Received Consubs 101158 (serial 61) giving information of enemy force leaving CAIRANH BAY today southward bound. Set course and increased speed to intercept.

— page 44 —
1. In reply refer to
: 2. COMPARTMENTAL
: 3. SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLIGHT
: 4. Serial: C-514
: 5. U. S. SEARAVEN
: 6. Friday, 20 February. Proceeding through SOUTH CHINA SEA toward APO EAST PASSAGE.
: 7. 0258 Looksightsighted white flare bearing 135 degrees T., distant 3000 yards. Prepared for night attack but could not locate anything. Proceeded on course.
: 8. Saturday, 21 February. Proceeding through SOUTH CHINA SEA toward APO PASSAGE.
: 9. Sunday, 22 February. Proceeding through SOUTH CHINA SEA toward APO PASSAGE.
: 10. Monday, 23 February. Proceeding through SOUTH CHINA SEA toward APO PASSAGE. Approached northern end of APO EAST PASS during early morning hours. Saw, at intervals, a very powerful searchlight beam in the general direction of CORREGIDOR CAPE CALAVITE.
: 11. Tuesday, 24 February. Proceeding through APO EAST PASS enroute LUMBOK north-east of the CHUO ISLANDS.
: 12. Wednesday, 25 February. Proceeding through CHUO EAST PASS and along west coast of RAYA enroute LUMBOK STRAIT. Made morning dive in 20 miles east of CAGAYAN ISLANDS.
: 13. Thursday, 26 February. Proceeding through CHUO SEA enroute LUMBOK STRAIT. Made morning dive about 40 miles north of PEARL BANK.
: 14. Friday, 27 Feb. Proceeding through pass directly east of PEARL BANK and through SUBTU PASSAGE enroute LUMBOK STRAIT. Made morning dive in CHERES SEA north of CELIBIS.
: 15. Saturday, 28 Feb. Proceeding toward northern end MAKASSAR STRAIT. Made morning dive in northern end MAKASSAR STRAIT. Aboard 14 miles bearing 141 degrees T., from TG. MANGKALIHAT.
: 16. Sunday, 1 March. Proceeding through MAKASSAR STRAIT toward CAPE WILLIAM. Made morning dive northwest of CAPE WILLIAM.
: 17. 2100 Received Corusub 010435 (serial 58) directing us to proceed to PERTH via SAPE STRAIT. Sighted unidentified vessel apparently headed for us, bearing 070 degrees T., distant about 5000 yards. Dove to periscope depth but could not see the ship though the visibility was good enough for periscope work. Sound operator thought he heard screws but these soon faded out.
: 18. 2125 Surfaced and proceeded on course.
: 19. 2236

— page 45 —
1. In reply refer to:
   - S.S. SEARAVEN
   - U.S.S. SEARAVEN
   - SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLIGHT
   - CONFIDENTIAL
   - 0235
   - 0402
   - 0359
   - 1940
   - 0715
   - 2016
   - 2148
   - Thursday, 5 March:
   - 0235
   - 0402
   - 0715
   - 2016
   - 2148
   - Thursday, 5 March:
   - 0235
   -

— page 46 —
1. In reply refer to CONFIDENTIAL Serial: C-514 SS196/A12
: 2. SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLIGHT
: 3. U. S. S. SEARAVEN
: 4. On full rise, full speed ahead, and an up angle, ship went from 62 feet to 145 feet before we could catch her by blowing everything. Surfaced in a boiling white sea of cross-currents and whirlpools.
: 5. Friday, 6 March. Proceeding south of MALAY BARRIER enroute PERTH.
: 6. Saturday, 7 March. Proceeding south of MALAY BARRIER enroute PERTH.
: 7. Sunday, 8 March. Proceeding south of MALAY BARRIER enroute PERTH.
: 8. 1100 Heard unidentified vessel echo-ranging bearing approximately north; our position Lat. 15-58.0 S, Long. 114-55.0 E.
: 9. Monday, 9 March. Proceeding south of MALAY BARRIER enroute PERTH.
: 10. Tuesday, 10 March. Proceeding south of MALAY BARRIER enroute PERTH.
: 11. 1410 Commenced zig-zagging and continued until dark.
: 12. Wednesday, 11 March. Proceeding south of MALAY BARRIER enroute PERTH.
: 13. 12 March. Proceeding south of MALAY BARRIER enroute PERTH.
: 14. 0430 Net escort vessel at rendezvous and proceeded into harbor.
: 15. 0815 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. SARGO in nest along port side U.S.S. HOLLAND at PERMANENT, AUSTRALIA.

- 6 -

7

— page 47 —
1. In reply refer to
CONFIDENTIAL
SS196/A12
Serial: C-514

U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - Report of Second War Patrol.

Period from January 28, 1942 to March 12, 1942.

Area: SOUTH CHINA SEA.

Zone time kept: Minus Eight.

B - Weather.

The weather was generally fine, with calm seas, clear sky and bright moon south of MALAY BARRIER and in the various seas passed through enroute BALABAC STRAIT. Fair weather was also encountered south of the "Dangerous Ground". On the run up into the SOUTH CHINA SEA toward CAMRANH BAY the sea and wind picked up to a 6-7 sea and a 5 wind. Proceeding toward HANAN the sea and wind gradually subsided but the visibility became very bad due to thick cloud banks and haze. At times the visibility was reduced to 100 yards. Proceeding east through the SOUTH CHINA SEA enroute APO PASSAGE, the wind and sea were moderate but the visibility at night was only fair. From APO south to PERTH the weather was generally good except in the MAKASSAR STRAIT where considerable rain squalls and heavy cloud banks were encountered.

— page 48 —
1. CONFIDENTIAL SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC LINE
SS196/AL2
Serial: C-514.
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - Report of Second War Patrol.
Period from January 28, 1942 to March 12, 1942.
Area: SOUTH CHINA SEA.
Zone time kept: Minus Eight.

C - Tidal Information.

In BALABAC STRAIT, on entering from eastward, current set was northwest, drift 1.5 knots. On turning into second leg of channel, set was southwest, drift 1.5 knots. On first twelve hours run from BALABAC to the westward and south of the "Dangerous Ground", set was 250 degrees T., drift 3 knots. For the next twelve hours, set was 300 degrees T., drift 0.6 knots. Off the CHINA COAST to eastward of CAIMAN BAY set was 325 degrees T., drift 0.5 knots. South of HAINAI, current set was 250 degrees T., drift 1.5 knots. On the run through the SOUTH CHINA SEA toward APU PASS, set was 275 degrees T., drift 0.8 knots. In SAME STRAIT, at northern entrance, set was south, drift 1.5 knots; toward the southern end set was southeast, drift 6 knots.

— page 49 —
1. In reply refer to
: CONFIDENTIAL
: SS196/A12
: Serial: C-514

: SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET

: U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - Report of Second War Patrol.

: Period from January 28, 1942 to March 12, 1942.

: Area: SOUTH CHINA SEA.

: Zone time kept: Minus Eight.

: D - Navigation Aids.

: No lights were found burning except that of ROTTERDAM off PERTH. Moonlight star sights were taken whenever the opportunity presented itself. These sights were, in general, excellent except those off the CHINA COAST where the visibility was low.

: 10

— page 50 —
1. In reply refer to
: 2. SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLIGHT
: 3. CO. FIDMUTAL
: 4. SSI 76/A12
: 5. Serial: 0-514.
: 6. U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - Report of Second War Patrol.
: 7. Period from January 28, 1942 to March 12, 1942.
: 8. Area: SOUTH CHINA SEA.
: 9. Zone time kept: Minus Eight.

E - Ship's sighted.

Tuesday, 3 February.
At 0126, in MULUCA PASSAGE, Lat. 00-05.0 N., Long. 126-11.0 E., sighted masts of enemy destroyer (HIBINI Class) bearing 010 degrees T., distant 10,000 yards, on course 160 degrees T., speed 18 knots.

Friday, 6 February.
At 0625, in eastern entrance SIBUTU PASSAGE, sighted enemy merchant ship (2 goal type) bearing 180 degrees T., range 14000 yards on course 340 degrees T., speed 15 knots.

Wednesday, 11 Feb.
At 1811, in Lat. 7-36.0 N., Long. 108-24.0 E., sighted enemy task force of about 4 heavy cruisers and eight destroyers bearing 063 degrees T., range 7000 yards on course 215 degrees T., speed 12 knots.

Sunday, 1 March.
At 2125 in MAKASAR STRAIT northwest of CAPE WILLIAM, sighted unidentified ship bearing 070 degrees T., range 5000 yards, course and speed undetermined.

Monday, 2 March.
At 0235, in MAKASAR STRAIT off CAPE MANDAR, sighted unidentified ship bearing 150 degr. es T., range 4500 yards, course and speed undetermined.

Tuesday, 3 March.
At 0040, in narrow channel between TACA BAIKANG and KAPOPOSANG in the SPIRITUNE ARCHIPELAGO in MAKASAR STRAIT, sighted ship bearing 016 degrees T., range 6000 yards on a southerly course, speed 15 knots. It later developed there were two ships together but only one was seen at the time of diving, one ship was a tanker and the other ship was a "four-coal" cargo ship apparently fitted out as an auxiliary cruiser.

- 1 -

— page 52 —
1942
SS196/12
Serial: C-514

U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - Report of Second War Patrol.

Period from January 28, 1942 to March 12, 1942.

Area: SOUTH CHINA SEA.

Zone time kept: Minus Eight.

F - Aircraft sighted.

Wednesday, 11 March. At 1330, about 350 miles northwest by north of 20th INST ISLAND, sighted Catalina flying boat bearing 158 degrees T., range 10000 yards, elevation 1000 feet on north-early course, speed about 100 knots. Plane passed us abeam at a range of about 6000 yards.

— page 53 —
1. Made approach and attack on enemy destroyer (HIBINI Class) sighted in section E. at 0150, fired two torpedoes from bow tubes, making a submerged periscope attack and using T.D.C. points of Aim were engine room for first shot and bow for second shot. Track angles 99 and 104 port. Gyro angles 73 and 78 right. Firing range 900-1000 yards. Target course 143 degrees T., speed 20 knots. Target did not maneuver to avoid. Torpedo depth setting 10 feet. Keel depth 64 feet. Ship sank. Own course 272 degrees T., speed 2.5 knots.

Wednesday, 11 Feb. Made approach and attack on two heavy cruisers of enemy force sighted in section E. at 1825 fired four torpedoes from bow tubes, making a submerged periscope attack and using TDC. Points of Aim in each case were amidships and bow.

Track angle | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4
---|---|---|---|---
Gyro angle | 96 S | 98 S | 100 S | 102 S
Firing range | 8 R | 10 R | 12 R | 14 R
Degrees T., speed 12 knots. | | | |
Target course 215 | | | |
could not observe if targets maneuvered to avoid, but they most likely zigged away as we almost breached in the heavy sea. Torpedo depth setting 15 feet. Keel depth 62 feet. Torpedoes were heard to run. Hard no explosions so assumed no hits. Own course 125 degrees T., speed 3 knots.

Tuesday, 3 March. Made approach and attack on tanker sighted in section E. fired two torpedoes from stern tubes making a submerged periscope attack and using T.D.C. Points of Aim were middle of forward half of target and middle of after half. Track angles 110 and 111 starboard. Gyro angles 50 and 51 right. Firing range 1500 yards. Target course 190 degrees T., speed 7 knots. Target maneuvered by increasing speed. Torpedo depth setting 10 ft. Keel depth 64 ft. Torpedoes were heard to run. No hits. Own course 240 degrees T., speed 3 knots.

— page 55 —
1 - Major Defects and Casualties.

Thursday 5 Feb.  On morning dive found flood valve of negative tank leaking badly, probably from a torn or lost gasket.

Tuesday, 3 March. During afternoon found salt water in lube oil of main motor reduction gears. Later located the leak, a small one, in port lube oil cooler. Out this cooler out by blanking it off.

Saturday, 7 March. During afternoon starboard main motor air cooler developed a leak and had to be cut out of system. Port cooler was used for both sides. This cooler and the reduction gear lube oil cooler being cut out make it necessary to run at moderate speed due to danger of hot and wiped bearings.

— page 61 —
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— page 66 —
24-02-06
8-2-30 Dive

: 18-02-06 3-12-24
Depth: 35-12N 125-45E
Depth: 8-2-30 Dive

: 18-02-06 3-12-24

— page 84 —
2-28

U.S.S. STARFLEET
WAR PATROL NO. 2
28th Day Feb 24, 1972
Scale: 1 in. = 20 miles
Time: Oct 7

R 0000/24
CONFIDENTIAL

10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0

0.2500/24
0

— page 85 —
2-29
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
N.B.N. 326
U.S.S. SEARAVEN
WAR PATROL NO. 2
24th Day, Feb. 25, 1942
Scale: 1" = 200 Yds.
Time: G.C.T.

46

— page 102 —
S3196/A12-1
Serial: C-515

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

Subject:  Report of Third War Patrol, U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) covering period April 2, 1942 to April 25, 1942.

Enclosure:  (A) Report of Third War Patrol.
    (B) List of Australians rescued from Timor.
    (C) Report of Officer Commanding rescued Australian party.
    (D) Copies of messages received by Australian Party from Darwin and copy of note received by Australian Party from Japanese.

Enclosures:  (A), (B), (C) and (D) are forwarded

FILMED
41691

— page 103 —
1. Narrative.
: Thursday April 2, 1942. First Day.
: 1700 Underway from alongside U.S.S. OTUS, Freemantle, Western Australia, in accordance with Commander Submarines, Asiatic Fleet operation under No. 9 of April 2, 1942, with 1500 rounds of three inch AA ammunition for Corrigedor.
: 1720 Cleared Freemantle Harbor boom.
: 1817 Made trim dive.
: 1925 Passed through Point Dog. Headed up eastern side of bombing restriction lane.
: Friday April 3, 1942. Second Day.
: Nothing worthy of note occurred.
: Saturday April 4, 1942. Third Day.
: 0915 Sighted and exchanged identification with U.S.S. PARROTT.
: 1018 While on surface ten miles north of bombing restriction lane sighted PBY type air craft bearing 150 degrees true, distant 5 miles headed for us at an altitude of about 500 feet. Submerged and fired a yellow smoke bomb.
: 1100 Surfaced.
: 2300 Sighted unidentified submarine. See Section 5.

— page 104 —
1715 When at Lat 20°-36' S, Long 115°25' E., port lookout reported periscope one point abaft port beam, distant 3000 yards. Changed course to bring same dead astern and increased speed to full power on three engines. Believe contact was a false one.

Monday April 6, 1942. Fifth Day.

Continued on surface at speed of 10 knots over the ground.

Tuesday April 7, 1942. Sixth Day.

1212 When at Lat. 140-49' S, Long. 117-38' E., periscope reported broad on port bow distant 1500 yards. Headed for this spot at full power on three engines. When over estimated position of alleged submarine changed course 90 degrees to right. When settled on new course torpedo wake was reported opposite new track crossing old track just aft of the turning point. It is probable that this also may have been a false contact as much engine smoke was being put out due to starting and building the third engine up to full power while cold and wake sighted may have been engine smoke. Commanding Officer did not see wake of torpedo.

1322 When at Lat. 140-47' S, Long 1170-47' E., periscope reported broad on starboard bow, distant 1000 yards. Used same tactics as described above. Believe this to have been a false contact.

Wednesday April 8, 1942. Seventh Day.

0500 When at Lat. 120-32.5' S, Long. 1190-25' E., commenced submerged running during daylight.

Thursday April 9, 1942. Eighth Day.

When midway between Sunba and 58wu Islands, N.E.I., received Comsubs, A.F., serial 21, directing this vessel operate offensively against the enemy north of Timor. Set course for Dilli, speed 10 knots.

— page 105 —
2350 Received Comusbs A.F., 23 authorizing jettisoning of cargo as necessary to permit servicing of torpedoes. After careful survey of cargo stowage decided that removing portion in way of lower tubes both forward and aft would loosen the cargo and render same dangerous. Decided to leave cargo alone and fire lower tubes at first available targets, flooding these tubes only when firing seemed a certainty.

Saturday April 11, 1942. Tenth Day.

2125 Received Comusbs A.F., serial 24 directing this vessel rescue about twenty nine Australian troops stranded one and four tenths miles south of Cape Kuras on Timor, N.E.I. Reversed course at this time and headed down to have a look at the terrain. At the time of receipt of this message we were entering Umbii Strait and had adjusted course and speed to dive off Dilli, Portuguese Timor, at dawn.

Sunday April 12, 1942. Eleventh Day.

0100 Received Comusbs A.F., serial 26 stating Australians were using a code of doubtful security and warning this vessel to guard against possible surprise attack while attempting rescue. Cruised down west coast of Timor and identified landmarks during daylight. Made a survey of available material and equipment and discovered that practically all boat equipment had been turned in to the tender as a part of the strip ship program. Also learned that the motor boat engine had not been run since the outbreak of war. Manufactured one pair of oars from a two by four used to shore the cargo and an ammunition crate. Also manufactured four paddles from ammunition crates. Manufactured an anchor by using a piece of two inch brass pipe as the shank, two pieces of half inch stock as arms and a burned up piston lashed to the stock to give more weight.

Monday April 13, 1942. Twelfth Day.

Stood in to coast submerged and ran back and forth past rendezvous one mile off shore making careful periscope observations. Noted large boulders along shore line and decided against beaching ship in awash condition to expedite rescue.

1530 Saw two horsemen approaching rendezvous from southward.

— page 106 —
1900:  Surfaced. Stationed machine gunners to guard against possible interference from small boats. Noted lights on beach at rendezvous. Commenced rigging boat and had trouble with engine. Signalled beach and received a light of thirty seconds' duration each time the letters Sail Roger were sent. Took this to be the stranded party. At twenty three hundred we had given up hope of starting the engine so the ship was maneuvered at right angles to the beach until a six fathom sounding was obtained and the boat was lowered. We then sent "SR" to the beach, received almost immediately an answering signal and sent a message saying boat was on the way in. We noted signals from electric lights playing back and forth between spots on two high mountains in the interior.

Tuesday April 14, 1942. Thirteenth Day.

0100 Recalled boat after failure on part of both the boat and the ship to establish communications again after having sent signal that boat was on the way in. Learned from Ensign G.C. Cook, U.S.N.R., who was in charge of boat that the landing would be a difficult one and there were numerous rocks and heavy surf around the rendezvous point.

0215 As the ship stood out we noted what appeared to be signals coming from a point on the beach just south of Kurus Point and a little to the northward of the rendezvous. As the boat was then secured we stood out charging batteries and decided to wait until the next evening before attempting further rescue. We surmised that the reason all signals stopped when the boat was on the way in was because the Australians had found the landing spot to be too rocky for our boat and did not want to entice it in too close, depending themselves upon finding a clearer spot the next day. Noted numerous fires through hills.

0445 Submerged and headed back toward the coast submerged. Observed rendezvous point almost continuously from fifteen hundred until dark.

1530 Observed a group of four men mounted on horseback and another party of three men afoot, approaching rendezvous. They disappeared into the brush at just about the rendezvous point.

— page 107 —
1900 Surfaced and prepared boat for lowering. Removed boat engine to lighten boat. Placed Ensign G.C. Cook, U.S.N.R., in charge of boat.

2050 Noted reflection of a campfire on the beach a little south of the rendezvous point. Signalled "SR" and within two minutes received an answering signal from a point a little to the northward of the campfire. Sent boat in to this point to pick up party and signalled beach to this effect. Received answering flash from the beach after completion of this message. Ensign Cook anchored the boat off the surf and attempted to get in communication with someone ashore. Failing in this he swam ashore and approached a campfire near the beach. Here he noted about twelve men standing around. When within about twenty five yards of the campfire he turned his flashlight upon himself and shouted; at which all hands near the fire scattered. He searched the surrounding area for about an hour and then reported he had been unable to make contact. He was told to return aboard and in the meantime an effort was made to contact the beach again from the ship with no success.

Wednesday April 15, 1942. Fourteenth Day.

0100 Jettisoned motor boat engine to expedite securing boat.

0130 Boat returned and was hoisted aboard.

0200 As ship stood out signals from the beach were resumed in the same manner as last night. The Commanding Officer became very suspicious of the whole proceeding. After a careful study of orders for the rescue it was decided that a report of difficulties experienced was in order, due to the suspicious signals noted and the likelihood of the Australian code being compromised. Set course to clear barrier before making report.

Thursday April 16, 1942. Fifteenth Day.

Sent SEARAVEN 151600 to Consubs A.F., telling of failure to date and suspicious nature of signals received.

— page 109 —
1942, 15th Day (Continued)

0146 When one hundred miles south of Kurus received Comsubs A.F., 34 directing SEARAVEN return and continue attempts Friday and Saturday nights. After study of above message decided Comsubs A.F., had misunderstood type of signal received from the shore and so sent out SEARAVEN 151821 stating that these signals were proper ones and that it was feared Australians were entering a trap. Set course for Point Kurus. Became even more convinced that something was radically wrong and that perhaps a Japanese patrol force was present.

Friday April 17, 1942. Sixteenth Day.

1530 Reached point one mile off rendezvous and observed seven horsemen plus three pack horses approaching rendezvous and four men afoot on beach at rendezvous.

1900 Surfaced and observed a bombing raid on Kupang. The planes seemed to be doing an excellent job. There were a few bursts of what appeared to be about three inch AA shells. There seemed to be about twenty or twenty five Bofors firing almost continuously. Observed blinking light on Kurus. Made characters "A.I.M." three times to seaward.

2020 Sighted unidentified vessel on northerly course. See Section 5 for details.

2100 Commenced sending "SH" to beach.

2115 Contacted Australians. They were using a light visible a good six miles. Requested them to keep light turned out until boat reached them. Lowered boat and sent same to beach immediately.

Saturday April 18, 1942. Seventeenth Day.

0115 Boat returned with sixteen Australians. Learned that seventeen men remained on shore, fifteen of which were too weak to be of any help. Due to the long time it would take to row boat in, load, and return; it was decided the operation could not possibly be completed before daylight. Sent a signal to the remainder of the party that we would return tonight and take them off. Learned also that the Japanese know the locality of the party and that an attack is expected tomorrow. Of the men coming aboard all but three came down with fever immediately and all were in a much weakened an emaciated condition.

— page 110 —
0215 Stood off coast charging batteries.

1600 Reached a position one mile off rendezvous and observed beach closely for the remainder of daylight. Saw four members of stranded party at the rendezvous.

1900 Surfaced and observed air raid on Kupang. This one seemed to be about twice the size of last night's raid.

2120 Established communications with stranded party and sent boat. For description of rescue see Section 10.

Sunday April 19, 1942. Eighteenth Day.

0100 Boat returned to ship with the seventeen remaining Australians. Four of them could not sit up and could hardly move. All but two had to be carried below on the shoulders of our men. This second group was in much poorer shape than the first group to come aboard. Two of them were in a serious condition. During the operation the same signal light on Kurus Point was seen again several times. It seemed to be signalling to a similar brighter light off the village of Barate. These lights were noticed by the party ashore and also by the ship. Also, signalling was again noted on two mountain peaks toward the interior.

0200 With ship completely secured for sea set course west at two engine speed, charging batteries on other two mains.

0430 Submerged and set southerly course to pass west of Semau.

1845 Surfaced. 002 content of air at this time was 3%. The air throughout the whole ship was most odorous due to the malaria sweat of so many sick men.

Sent SEARAVEN 191230 giving the condition of the rescued party as follows: All suffering from malaria and tropical fevers. Three unconscious and in serious condition. Many tropical ulcers, one serious. One officer suffering an infected shrapnel wound. Twelve bed patients. All require hospitalization.

2325 Received Omsubs A.F., four four directing SEARAVEN proceed Fremantle at best speed and to run on surface from dark on April 20, 1942. Set standard speed eighteen knots, speed through water, sixteen knots.

— page 114 —
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) Report of Third War Patrol.
Period from April 2, 1942 to April 25, 1942.

3. Tidal information.
Range of tide near Point Kurus Western Timor is about six feet. The usual daily set works out to be southwest at about .3 knot.

— page 115 —
U.S.S. SEARAVEN, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SS196/A12-1
Serial: C-515

U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) Report of Third War Patrol.
Period from April 2, 1942 to April 25, 1942.

4. Navalational Aids.
None observed.

— page 116 —
2020 April 17, 1942.

Unidentified ship three miles west of Kurus point on northerly course speed ten knots. Was never clearly seen so type is unknown. Tracked target for about twenty minutes using TDC. Made ready two tubes forward and two tubes aft. He kept on a northerly course. Did not attack because of need for secrecy.

— page 117 —
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) Report of Third War Patrol.
Period from April 2, 1942 to April 25, 1942.

6. Aircraft sighted.

None. Australians informed me that Japanese aircraft
patrolled coast starting shortly after eight in the
morning and returning before five in afternoon.

— page 118 —
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) Report of Third War Patrol.
Period from April 2, 1942 to April 25, 1942.

7. Particulars of attacks.
No attacks.

Page 10

— page 120 —
1. In reply refer to
: 2. SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
: 3. SS196/A12-1
: 4. U. S. S. SEARAVEN
: 5. U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) Report of Third War Patrol.
: 6. Period from April 2, 1942 to April 25, 1942.
: 7. Zone time kept: Minus Eight.

9. Major defects noted.

April 3, 1942 - Failure of one unit on No. 1 main engine due to sticky rings. Decided to overhaul this engine completely.

April 11, 1942 - Negative tank flood gasket blown.

April 23, 1942. At 2005 while underway enroute Freamantle at 90% power on 4 main engines, making 290 RPM; flames were seen to burst from the main power cage. The flames appeared to come from the port reverser, and shot out of the lower, after, port corner and out the top of the cage.

The head electrician on watch in the maneuvering room was standing immediately abaft the port controllers and upon seeing flame shooting from the cage attempted to pull the controllers clear, but could not reach them because of the fire. In the meantime, the engine room watches tripped the generators and stopped the engines.

The next act of the maneuvering room watch was to evacuate the compartment and close the door to the after torpedo room to prevent spread of fire to this compartment which contained 3 inch A.A. ammunition. It was stated by the men on watch that by the time they cleared the compartment, no more flames were visible but the compartment was rapidly becoming filled with dense smoke.

Immediately after tripping the main generators and engines, the watch in the after engine room evacuated the compartment to the forward engine room and secured the door, thereby sealing the compartment.

At about 2015 arcing was seen to occur behind the board to #1 main generator in the forward engine room and smoke began to issue therefrom. Immediately thereafter the main battery disconnects were pulled in each battery tank to prevent further fires. No arcing occurred. The ship was now completely without power, and had only emergency lighting. The forward engine room was also evacuated and sealed.

At about 2030 a man equipped with oxygen mask entered the maneuvering room from the after torpedo room to investigate for the presence of any flame and to pull clear the controllers. A flicker of flame (which later turned out to be burning rags) was noticed from the motor room, but none were seen in the maneuvering room, although the compartment was filled with dense smoke and it was possible to see only a few feet.

— page 121 —
9. Major defects noted (continued)

At 2100 the battery disconnects were closed to energize the auxiliary board. A man was then sent into the compartment through the engine room to start a lighting motor generator, so that the radio transmitter could be used.

When this had been done, two more men were sent into the compartment; one to close the engine outboard exhaust valves by power; the other to secure the circulating water to the main motor coolers, as it was thought at this time the most probable cause of the fire was the carrying away of a main motor cooler, (all of which are in an advanced stage of corrosion) and the resultant flooding of a main motor. However, there were no indications of this noticed when the circulating water was secured.

Ventilation of both compartments was then begun. #2 main engine was started and allowed to idle to take a suction from the after machinery space through the after torpedo room hatch.

By about 2230 the compartment was clear enough to be entered without an oxygen mask, and a preliminary inspection of damage was made which showed that both reserves were burned out, and the ship was without propulsion. At 2318 a message was sent out requesting a tow.

Further and more thorough investigation has brought to light the following extent of damage:

(a) Both motor reversers burned out and useless.
(b) Battery bus grounded to generator bus.
(c) Starboard motor field rheostat welded in position and rendered inoperative.
(d) All control circuits inside the main power cage burned out.
(e) Practically all insulation in the cage burned off.
(f) One cable to #2 main motor burned off holding lug and dropped down into, but not in contact with, port reverser.
(g) Commutator of #2 main motor has the commutator bars blistered on one end.
(h) Ringing through with megger shows 100,000 reading in armature circuit #2 main motor.

It is important to note that the main power cage was not damaged by the fire. It is impossible to determine the cause of the fire. It is possible that the fire was caused by a spark from the generator.

At 0200, after the ground had been discovered between the generator bus and the battery bus, #2 auxiliary engine was started on the auxiliary load; and the battery was pulled clear. Ground readings were then taken on the battery tanks and the maximum ground indicated was 20 volts. As a further precaution, however, the battery disconnects in the battery tanks were pulled clear.

— page 122 —
9. Major defects noted (continued)

All main motors and generators were checked and only #2 main motor shows signs of damage and that does not appear to be extensive. Further investigation will be necessary, however, to fully determine the seriousness of the damage to this motor.

Work was immediately begun to effect a temporary rig to enable the good motors to be used. To do so, the control panel would have to be completely by-passed. It was decided that it would be possible to directly connect an auxiliary engine to one main motor. This was accomplished and at 1000, April 24th, #1 auxiliary engine was started satisfactorily. At 1400 this method was put on propulsion and 135 RPM were obtained on the starboard shaft.

The temporary rig mentioned above was effected in the following manner: In normal operation, the auxiliary engines can be used on propulsion through the port generator bus. Either, or both engines may be put on this bus by closing individual auxiliary generator circuit breakers on the auxiliary power board. However, since the generator bus is grounded to the battery bus, this method could not be used.

The leads from the auxiliary generators to the port generator bus were disconnected at the bus and pulled out of the main power cage. Battery cell jumpers running singly were used for leads to #1 main motor from the auxiliary generator leads. These leads are so connected that either auxiliary engine may be used. Both cannot be used at once, however, as there is no means available to balance the load. The motor field was energized from the lighting motor generator (through the portable battery charging connections) with the lead running through the inspection port in the motor casing. No field control was available, and the motor is run with full field at all times. Slight variations may be obtained by varying the output of the lighting motor generator. The engine is started with zero field on the generator and brought up to speed (1000 RPM). The main motor is then started by cutting in the auxiliary generator field with maximum rheostat, and gradually cutting in the resistance, allowing the generator field to build up. This is the method of controlling shaft speed. The generator is run at constant speed. There is no means of reversing the motor.

After test proved the above rig satisfactory, further investigation proved the possibility of directly connecting either #3 or 4 main generator to either #1 and 3, or #1 and 4 main motors as follows:

"Field excitation for the main generator can be taken from the auxiliary power board and controlled by #3 main generator field rheostat on main control panel which was found to be operative. Leads have been run from the auxiliary board to the above mentioned rheostat and from the rheostat to the generator field, thus isolating the rheostat from the main control cage.

- 3 -

— page 123 —
9. Major defects noted (continued)

The main motors may be connected in series directly to the main generator. Motor field excitation may be taken from the auxiliary board; the motor fields being connected in series. No control is available for this circuit.

With this arrangement, speed control may be had by varying main engine speed and for generator field.

The great disadvantage to this rig is the lack of any safety feature between the generator and the motors, such as is offered in the auxiliary engine rig by the circuit breaker on the auxiliary board, also the initial surge of current when starting would be excessive. For this reason the main generator hook-up was not used.

Cause of this fire is, as yet, unknown. It was, at first investigation, believed that one leg of the lead to #2 main motor had overheated, thus melting the silver solder securing it to the holding lug, and allowing it to drop across the port reverser. However, it is believed that if such has occurred the lead would have been either burned completely away, or have been welded to the reverser. Such is not the case.

It is now believed, after further investigation, that the fire originated in the port reverser itself. This unit is so badly burned that definite information is impossible.

— page 124 —
10. Remarks.

The rescue of the thirty three Australians from Timor was accomplished with the most crude equipment imaginable and under very adverse conditions.

Ensign George C. Cook, D-M., U.S. Naval Reserve, who was in charge of evacuating this party from the beach by means of this vessel's boat deserves special mention for the courage, resourcefulness, skill and determination with which he carried out this mission. He has most certainly demonstrated the highest type of initiative and proven his ability as a seaman and a leader of men. In the opinion of his Commanding Officer the actions of this man were of the highest credit to himself and in accord with the best traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

The boat used in this rescue was the conventional submarine boat from which the engine had been removed. It was powered by one set of makeshift oars manufactured from two by fours and parts of ammunition crates. The oar locks were made from pieces of one quarter inch steel stock. No provision could be devised for a steering oar so the conventional rudder was used. The anchor was made of a piece of two inch brass pipe as a shank and two pieces of one quarter inch steel stock as arms. It was given additional weight by lashing an old piston to the stock. As can be seen from the above description neither the boat or the boat equipment was in any way suitable for use in or near the surf.

The coast line itself was far from ideal. The hundred fathom curve was about one mile off shore and the bottom sloped up rapidly to the coast line. A heavy swell was running causing breakers about six feet high to break about one hundred and fifty yards from shore. In addition, of course, the chosen spot was only twenty miles north of the Japanese base at Kupan and it was problematical as to whether or not the beach was held or patrolled by the Japanese. Add to this the distinct possibility of a surprise attack from seaward upon the ship itself and it is readily apparent that Ensign Cook undertook this job under very adverse circumstances.

— page 125 —
10. Remarks (Continued)

After having taken the boat in the first night and failed to contact the stranded party he anchored it off the surf the next night and swam ashore to investigate after communications with the beach failed. In utter disregard to his personal safety he approached a campfire around which twelve men were standing, shone his flashlight upon himself and shouted. These men immediately disappeared into the brush. Ensign Cook searched the area around this fire for another hour without success at the end of which time he was ordered to return to the ship. Upon returning he requested permission to go back ashore and remain there until the next night attempting to contact the Australians and establishing whether or not the horsemen were Australians or Japanese patrols. This request was naturally denied.

On the third attempt when the first sixteen men were evacuated, Ensign Cook swam out from the boat and rescued two of the Australians who were coming out on a line, without life jackets, from drowning.

On the final trip in to the beach the boat parted its anchor line and was thrown up on the beach despite all the boat's crew could do. Ensign Cook took two unconscious men, two more who were too weak to sit up and the two remaining strongest members of the party into the boat and launched it successfully through the surf, a feat his Commanding officer considered practically impossible after having observed the surf and landing point carefully through the periscope. He had gone in with orders that he as not to attempt beaching the boat under any circumstances, even if it might prove fatal to the two weakest men. Previous men out through the surf and had gotten him safely into the boat. MARKERSON, Leonard B. | 2C, US. Navy, had done the same with the second unconscious man.

MARKERSON, Leonard B. | 2C, US. Navy, and MC GRIEVY, Joseph L., SMC, U.S. Navy, are also deserving of special mention. These men accompanied Ensign Cook as members of the boat's crew on all trips. Each of them saved several trips through the surf at various times. Each of them rescued one drowning Australian and helped others through the surf. MARKERSON hauled an unconscious man out through the surf on the last night and deposited him safely in the boat. MARKERSON, MC GRIEVY and LORENZ, John | 2C (PA), U.S. Navy., who were in the boat's crew the last night demonstrated their courage and skill by launching the boat through the surf after it had been washed ashore.

— page 126 —
10. Remarks (Continued)

This rescue was imbued with the greatest of luck as far as the Australian party was concerned. R.A.A.F. Flight Lieutenant H.O. Cook and Pilot Officer V.C. Leithhead, whose plane had been shot down during a raid on Kupang at 0945 zed on the thirteenth of April, joined the party on the afternoon of Friday the seventeenth of April. These two officers would have been left behind if earlier rescue attempts had not failed. Lieutenant Cook was suffering from an infected shrapnel wound and would most likely have been in dire straits had he not been able to get the first aid treatment he received on board.

— page 127 —
0-515

In reply refer to:
SUBMARINES, UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
U. S. S. SEARAVEN

NAMES OF AUSTRALIANS

R.A.A.F. Flight Lieutenants:
B. Rofe MA 2439
H.O. Cook, 229

Flying Officers
F.G. Birchall A2031
W.S. Arthur 2122
A.F. Cole A1733

Pilot officers
K.R. Greaves A2237
V.C. Leithhead 406858

Sergeants
J.P. Sumner 3525
R.W. Donald 10397

Corporals
C.P. Humphris 5170
V.R.C. Hendrickson 6448
E.E. Litchell 9169
R.J. Lloyd 14576
R.J. Bell 18349

Leading Aircraftmen
E.C. Park 10440
L.R. Burgelt 12801
C.E. Gibbs 19259
W. Smith 12629
F.W. Grigg 20701
C.W. Pappin 27530
R.H. Holloway 11093

Air Craftsmen
R.W. Oliver 27996
F.F. Rusconi 35453
P.J. Kean 24508
L.R. Bourke 35121
A. Ackerman 20604
G.W. Ettridge 29688
F.J. Meekins, 13374

Australian Infantry Forces
Sgt. D.D. Shields, TX 5009
Cpl. J.K. Bell TX3976
Pvt. C.M. Davis TX 3967
Pvt. H.J. Jones, TX 5058

Lieut. A. E. Bridge R.A.N.V.R. - No number.

ENCLOSURE "B" TO USS SEARAVEN SS196/A12-1 Serial: C-515.

— page 128 —
1. From: Officer Commanding Australian Party.
To: Officer Commanding, U.S.S. Searaven.

Subject: REPORT ON RESCUE OF 33 AUSTRALIANS FROM TIHOR.

1. Reason for absence on beach on nights April 13th and 14th: I received information on April 9th from natives that a large navy was at the next village to the north and appeared to be moving down, and hence decided to evacuate party into the hills on the morning of the 10th. Darwin instructed us on the 11th not to transmit unless imperative. We moved back on Tuesday afternoon, April 14th and early Wednesday morning contacted Darwin, who passed on the Nodocco message of which you have a copy. This was the first indication I had had of any rescue attempt, and so was in complete ignorance of your presence in the bay on the two preceding nights.

2. The night of Wednesday, April 15th a watch with fire was kept all night but can appreciate why your sub did not return. The presence of correct signalling from the beach is mystifying, and I can only ascribe some to a freak periodic nature of the large surf cutting out the fishing fires on the beach. The position of lights as indicated by you are common fishing rounds at night. The horsemen seen were natives bringing us food and the information concerning the Jap movements.

3. The rescue on nights of Friday and Saturday, April 17th and 18th. Your signal was first sighted 0912 Z on the first night and a great job by your boat crew enabled 16 of the fitter men to be taken aboard. The fact that the hour was late and prohibited a return trip was appreciated by me and in the party there was complete faith in your returning the following night. The rescue of the sick, men on the second night in view of the misfortunes of breaking oars, anchors carrying away and the boat beaching and the fact of dealing with sick men, with only two of us in any way fit, it remained almost entirely a job for your boat crew. Here may I, Sir, commend to your most favorable attention the work done by Ensign G.C. Cook. On the two nights, particularly the second when a rising surf and tide had to be taken, the success of the rescues was due mainly to his cool decisions, ability to handle a tough situation and untiring energy. His was a 100% effort. The work of the boat crew is also commended to your notice.

— page 129 —
2 -

I should also like to express my sincerest appreciation of your sticking to the job even though you must have been aware of the possibility of a trap from a compromised cypher, having been seen by the signalling watchers on the hills or the party having been taken; while the nature of the bay, proximity to Koepang and presence of shipping made the effort ever more meritorious. The officers and men of the party wish to express their sincerest appreciation and admiration of a well executed job and also for the hospitality and care, second to none, received on your ship.

Bryan Rofe FL/Lt
Officer Commanding Australian Party.

Enclosure "C" to U.S.S. SEARATEN SS196/A12-1 Serial C-515.

— page 130 —
1942, FROM DARWIN, N.A.

U.S. Submarine will be close in shore at a point one point four miles south of point Kurus for five nights coming April thirteenth at 1300 Z. When sea conditions permit will attempt rescue. The submarine will use a blinker tube to transmit SR at two minute intervals as a recognition signal. Your proper answer will be a flashlight or fire exhibited for periods of thirty seconds. Submarine boat will be used to accomplish rescue if no native boats are available. You will be landed at Fremantle. Acknowledge.

PARAPHRASED COPY OF MESSAGE RECEIVED BY AUSTRALIAN PARTY ON THURSDAY 16 APRIL, 1942, FROM DARWIN, N.A.

Submarine attempted rescue Monday and Tuesday nights. No personnel were found on beach Monday. Officer swam ashore Tuesday night and hailed twelve men seen around campfire. They scattered without his making contact. Both nights the rescue vessel a parently received proper signals. Friday and Saturday nights at same time further rescue attempts will be made using same signals. If you understand this signal acknowledge as soon as possible.

COPY OF NOTE RECEIVED BY AUSTRALIAN PARTY FROM JAPANESE.

To the Australian and Dutch officers and soldiers
The war is over. N.E.I. fell in our hand in succession. On March 9th all the allied forces surrendered to us with out any conditions. On Timor Island about 1,100 Australians and 100 Dutch soldiers under Lt.col Legatt and Detiger did the same.

They are enjoying life and awaiting for you being supplied with bread meat and fresh vegetables. Your movement and present location are reported to us through RAJAHSA. If you continue fighting against us, there's not way but to conquer you. So come to us with this information and await for the return of peace with your friends.

Japanese Army March 14 '42.

ENCLOSURE "D" TO U.S.S. SEARAVEN SS196/a12-1 Serial 0-515.

— page 132 —
1915
SS196/A12-1
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-D-T
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - POUND WAR PATROL.
10 0457
JUNE 28, 1942 to JULY 6, 1942.
Minus eight Zone time.

1. Narrative:
   First Day, Sunday June 28, 1942.
   1645 Clear ice near inner harbor entrance Fremantle,
    West Australia in company with U.S.S. SALMON, etc.
   1700 Passed through point Arfirm.
   1845 Passed through Point One.
   1915 Changed course to 325 degrees. Increased speed to
    15 knots until clear of Rottnest Light. SALMON
    continued westerly course. Started Zig Zag in bright
    moonlit.

2. SLOWED to 12 knots.

Positions:
2000 Lat. 31 degrees 41.61' S.
Long. 11516.2 W.
Second Day June 29, 1942.
1332 Changed base course to 3510. Continued Zig Zag.
1700 Slowed to 180 RPM, 8 knot, due to heavy seas.
Ceased Zig Zag.

Positions:
0800 Lat. 200-50.5 S
Long 1130 -48.01' E
1200 Lat. 290-23.5 S
Long 1130-12.1 E
2000 Lat. 280-12.5 S
Long 1120-56.7 E
Hills steamed 209.8
Fuel Used 3032 Cal.
Course made good 324.0
Average speed 10.5 knots.

- 1 -

— page 133 —
SS196/412-1
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEA RAVEN (SS196)
U.S.S. SEA RAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH U.S.S. SEA RAVEN (SS196) - 1. Narrative (Page 2).
Third Day June 30, 1942.
0710 Weather reported to some extent. Making 11.2 knot by fit log.
1444 Checked course to 005 degrees.
Positions.
0800 Lt. 26° - 37' - 6
Long. 112° - 33' - E.
1200 Lt. 25° - 58' - S.
Long. 112° - 34' - F.
2000 Lt. 24° - 22' - S.
Long. 112° - 34' - E.
Miles steamed 211.
Fuel used 2428 gallons.
Courses made good: 196 1/2 on 351 degrees.
16 1/2 on 325 degrees.
Average speed 8.9 knot.
Fourth Day July 1, 1942.
0655 Made training dive.
0802 Surfaced. Commenced Zig Zag on base course 004 degrees, 12 knot.
1014 Changed base course to 034 degrees.
1535 Made training dive.
1623 Surfaced. Continued Zig Zag on base course 034 degrees (T).
2130 Changed base course to 039 degrees (T).
Positions.
0800 Lt. 22° - 08' - S.
Long. 112° - 51' - E.
1200 Lt. 21° - 27' - S.
Long. 113° - 04' - E.

- 2 -

— page 134 —
55196/A12-1
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-J-T
U.S.S. SEARAVIN (SS196) - FOURTH AIR PATROL.

1. Narrative (Page 3).

2000 Lat. 20° - 16' S.
Long. 113° - 59' E.

Hiles steamed 271.
Fuel Used 332 gal. oil.
Courses made 180 mi. on 034 degrees.
23.1 mi. on 005 degrees.
29.7 mi. on 35° degrees.

Average speed 11.5 knots.

Fifth Day July 2, 1942.

0900 Made training dive.

0945 Surfaced. Sent ahead 12.5 knot on base course 040 degrees. Continued 21g. Zeg.

1345 Made training dive.

1411 Surfaced. Sent ahead 12.5 knot on base course 040 degrees. Continued 21g. Zeg.

1700 Made training dive.

1745 Surfaced. Sent ahead 12.5 knot on base course 040 degrees.

Positions

800 Lat. 180 - 121 S.
Long. 115° - 28' E.

1200 Lat. 17° - 43' S.
Long. 115° - 53' E.

2000 Lat. 16° - 34' S.
Long. 116° - 55' E.

Hiles steamed 275.
Fuel used 289 gallons.
Courses made food: 107 mi. on 034°
130 mi. on 039°
38 mi. on 040°

Average speed 11.5 knots.

— page 136 —
SS196/AL2-1  SUBMARINES SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S#: C-R-T
U.S.S. SEAPAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

1. Narrative (Page 5)

Positions
0800 Let. 14° 39' - S
    Long 118° 37' E
1200 Let. 14° 07' - S
    Long 119° 55' E
2000 Let. 13° 06' - S
    Long 119° 55' E

Miles steamed 283.
Fuel used 3013 gal.
Course made good 040 degrees.
Average speed 11.8 knots.

Seventh Day July 4, 1942.

0535 Submerged and coming up submerged running during
    day light at Let. 11° 35' S., Long 121° 22' E.,
    forty six miles south of carrier.

1814 Surfaced. Went ahead 12 knot on course 045 degrees.

1952 Observed a number of lights later identified as being
    on Savu Island.

2035 Changed course to 049 degrees.
Positions
0800 Let. 110° 30.5 - S,
    Long 121° 22' - E.
1200 Let. 110° 23' S,
    Long 121° 26.7 E.
2000 Let. 110° 03 - S,
    Long 121° 48.8 E.

Miles steamed 220.
Fuel used 2252.
Courses made good: 86 mi on 040 degrees.
   134 mi on 045 degrees.
Average speed 9.0 knots.

— page 137 —
SS196/A12-1  SUBMARINES SOUTH EAST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

1. Narrative (Page 6).
   Eighth Day July 5, 1942.

   0418 Sighted ship bearing 040 degrees(T) with a small angle on the bow. Stood out clearly on horizon in bright twilight. 0.0D., took ship down. Could pick up nothing with periscope or sound.

   0535 Sighted sailing vessel of about fifty tons bearing 224 degrees(T) distant 4000 yards on northerly course. Believe this to have been vessel sighted at 0418.

   0603 Changed course to 070 degrees(T). Entrance to Koepang Bay in sight.

   1822 Changed course to 025 degrees(T).

   1837 Surfaced. Observed some fires and several lights on Timor between Tig Iass and Koepang Bay. Commenced battery charge. Vent ahed 11 knots.

   2150 Changed course to 070 degrees.

   2202 Slowed to seven knots, 120 RPM.

   Positions
   0800 Lat. 90° -53.2 -S.
    Long. 123° -00.2 -S.
   1200 Lat. 90° -53.2 -S.
    Long. 123° -08.0 -S.
   2000 Lat. 90° 47.2 -S.
    Long. 123° -29.0 -S.

   Files steamed 130.
   Fuel used 1393.
   Course made good: 046 degrees.
   Average speed 5.4 knots.

   Ninth Day July 6, 1942.

   0200 Secured Battery charge.

   0448 Changed course to 150 degrees.

   0457 Submerged.

   0840 Changed course to 120 degrees(T).

   0940 Changed course to 058 degrees(T).

— page 138 —
SS196/A12-1  SUBMARINES SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

1. Narrative (Page 7)
   1406 Changed course to 075 degrees.
   1824 Changed course to 060 degrees.
   1832 Surfaced. Observed a number of brush fires on Timor.
   2125 Received CSSF eighty five saying no ships in Dilly
    or Kocpong on Four July.
   2310 Seized battery charge.

Positions
0800 Lat. 08° - 59.5' - S.
    Long. 124° - 13.8' E.
1200 Lat. 09° - 01.5' - S.
    Long. 124° - 19.4' - E.
2000 Lat. 08° - 55.2' - S.
    Long. 125° - 26.7' - E.

Miles steamed 88.
Fuel used 767.
Course made good 054 degrees.
Average speed 3.7 knot.

Tenth Day July 7, 1942.
0102 Changed course to 055 degrees.
0245 Changed course to 060.
0422 Changed course to 095 degrees.
0428 Submerged.
0540 Changed course to 080 degrees.
0805 Changed course to 070 degrees.
0840 Changed course to 075 degrees.
0931 Changed course to 139 degrees heading down axis of Dilly channel.
1044 When at 200 meter curve on Dilly changed axis,
    changed course to 000 degrees (T). Hed good look
    at Dilly anchorage. Nothing there.
1305 Changed course to 270 degrees (T) patrolling east
    west line six miles north of Dilly.
1505 Changed course to 090 degrees.

— page 139 —
1840 Surface. Observed a number of brush fires on
    Timcr well to westward of Dilly. Town itself
    completely blocked out. Commenced battery charge.
    Sent ahead 75 RPM maintaining a listening watch.

: 2311 Changed course to 270 degrees.
: 2330 Secured battery charge. Placed No. 2 auxiliary
    engine on propulsion.

Positions.
: 0800 Lat. 08° - 29.4' - 5.
    Long. 125° - 24.4' - 11.
: 1200 Lat. 08° - 26.7' - 5.
    Long. 125° - 33.6' - 11.
: 2000 Lat. 08° - 22.5' - 6.
    Long. 125° - 33.6' - 11.

Miles steamed 81.
Fuel used 670 gallons.
Courses made good: Verious, patrolling station.
Average speed 3.4 knot.

Eleventh Day July 8, 1942.

: 0112 Changed course to 090 degrees.
: 0243 Changed course to 270 degrees.
: 0400 Submerged.
: 0652 Changed course to 240 degrees.
: 0853 Changed course to 139 degrees heading down Dilly
    channel axis.
: 1000 Had good look at Dilly anchorage. Nothing there.
: 1002 Changed course to 002 degrees.
: 1136 Changed course to 090 degrees. Patrolling east west
    line five miles north of Dilly.
: 1721 Changed course to 020 degrees.
: 1842 Changed course to 090 degrees.
: 1845 Surface. Observed some fires and lights on beach
    as yesterday. Commenced battery charge. Sent ahead
    75 RPM maintaining listening watch.

— page 140 —
1851 Changed course to 000 degrees.
: 2145 Changed course to 270 degrees.
: 2311 Changed course to 230 degrees.
: 2318 Secured battery charge. Placed No. 2 Auxiliary Engine on propulsion.
: Positions.
: 0800 Lat. 06° - 26.0' - 3.
: Long. 125° - 32.0' - 3.
: 1200 Lat. 06° - 25.3' - 3.
: Long. 125° - 32.2' - 3.
: 2000 Lat. 08° - 22.5 - 3.
: Long. 125° - 49.8' - 3.

Miles steamed 80
Fuel used 205 gallons.
Coursers made good: Verious, patrolling station.
V-rage speed 3,3 knot.

Twelfth Day July 9, 1942.
0007 Changed course to 270 degrees.
0034 Changed course to 000 degrees.
0134 Changed course to 180 degrees.
0234 Changed course to 270 degrees.
0350 Changed course to 280 degrees.
0400 Submerged.
0445 Fired several water slugs from No. 2 torpedo Tube.
Gave shuttle as a good workout.
0600 Changed course to 260 degrees.
0702 Changed course to 250 degrees.
0951 Changed course to 139 degrees heading down Dilly Channel.
1039 Sighted object bearing 084 degrees (FT). Changed course to 120 degrees to close to close track and attain a position between object sighted and Dilly channel entrance.
1105 Identified vessel as small fishing boat under sail.
Had good look at Dilly anchorage, lothing there.
Observed several ugly trucks moving westward on water front. Changed course to 000 degrees.

— page 141 —
SS196/A12-1
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH TAR PATROL.

1. Narrative (Page 10).
   1219 Changed course to 090 degrees. Patrolling 5 miles north of Dilly.
   1445 Changed course to 270 degrees.
   1839 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge. Tent ahead 75 RPM. Launched listening watch.
   1850 Changed course to 315 degrees heading for middle of channels between air and Kanbing Islands.
   1950 Went ahead 9 knots, 170 RPM., to make water.
   2048 Changed course to 000 degrees.
   2330 Secured battery charge.
   2358 Changed course to 180 degrees.

Positions.
0800 Lat. 080 - 26.21' - S.
    Long. 1250 - 35.71' - N.
1200 Lat. 080 - 27.21' - S.
    Long. 1250 - 33.2' - N.
2000 Lat. 080 - 18.01' - S.
    Long. 1250 - 25.51' - N.

Miles steamed 83.
Fuel used 205 gallons.
Courses made good: Various, patrolling station.
Average speed 3.5 knots.

Thirteenth Day July 10, 1942.

0347 Changed course to 090 degrees.
0400 Submerged.
0430 Fired water slugs from No. 5 Torpedo Tube.
0703 Changed course to 139 degrees.
0809 Had good look at Dilly Harbour. Nothing there.
    Changed course to 000 degrees.
0900 Decided to head for mooring and patrol off that port for two days in accordance with original plan.
1007 Changed course to 255 degrees.
1348 Changed course to 265 degrees.
1729 Sighted ship bearing 000 degrees distant 10,000 yards coming out of haze and background of Kanbing Island.
    Changed course to 000 degrees. Our position Lat. 80-32'S Long. 1250 - 23' - N.

— page 142 —
1836. Submarine (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.
1. Narrative (Page 11).
   - 1735 Had good look at vessel. Angle on bow 90 degrees port, Range 8,000 yards. Identified as Hikawa Maru class. Changed course to 270 degrees to Track. Decided to overtake, get ahead and make surface attack. Obtained target speed of 12 knots. No escort observed.
   - 1846 Surfaced. Passed three engines on propulsion at 16 knots. Commenced battery charge on fourth engine.
   - 1850 Changed course to 240 degrees.
   - 2120 Sighted target braced on starboard bow, distant 8000 yards.
   - 2125 Target obscured by rain squall. A check by navigation-al positions at this time gave him a speed of 13 knots and a course of about 240 degrees.
   - 2200 Secured battery charge and built up to full power, 17 knots.
   - 2215 Heard four muffled explosions which sounded like depth charges in general direction of target, which now bore broad on the starboard quarter.
   - 2225 Lost sight of target - slowed to one third speed to listen. Swung left to course 150 degrees to listen down track.
   - 2236 Sound reported disturbances all along port side but could not distinguish propellers. Could see nothing in this direction. Started swing toward target.
   - 2240 Decided to submerge and conduct attack by sound. Can't check full speed in proportion for diving.
   - 2241 Illuminated by a twenty one inch searchlight bearing 080 degrees (T) distant about 200 yards. Submerged.
   - 2245 Two depth charge explosions noted. All were astern and shallow. Our depth 200 feet on layer.
   - 2250 Two more depth charges. All further astern. Our depth 290 feet. From this time on ran dead slow and endeavored to keep propeller noises astern. Heard three sets of light screws - no pings.
   - 2315 Settled on course 320 degrees.

Positions:
0800 Let. 080° - 30.01' - 3.
Long. 125° - 25.51' - 2.

— page 143 —
1. Narrative (Page 12).
   - 1200 Lat. 0°0' - 28.5' - 3
   - Long. 125° - 29' - 3
   - 2000 Lat. 0°0' - 41.2' - 3
   - Long. 124° - 54.8' - 3

2. Lines started at 112.9
   - Fuel used 650 gallons.
   - Courses made good: Vicious, patrolling station.
   - Average speed 4.7 knots.

3. Fourteenth Day July 11, 1942.

4. 0030 Propeller noises faded out.
   - 0140 Surfaced on course 19 degrees, sent ahead 12 knots.
   - Comenced battery charge.

5. 0148 Changed course to 300 degrees.
   - 0220 Changed course to 330 degrees.
   - 0250 Got message off to OSCF stating that unescorted
   - 0340 Submerged.

6. 0145 Secured battery charge.
   - 0430 Submerged.

7. 0645 Changed course to 160 degrees.
   - 1313 Changed course to 170 degrees.
   - 1535 Changed course to 120 degrees.
   - 1603 Changed course to 175 degrees.
   - 1640 Changed course to 155 degrees.

8. 1711 Changed course to 232 degrees. A survey of charts
   and information to date has convinced me of the
   following:
   - The most likely spot to catch anything bound
   to or from Kopenhagen is the narrows of Ombai Passage.
   This, of course, leaves the approaches from straits
   to westward of Ombai uncovered due to the wide mouth
   of Kopenhagen Bay and a southern entrance. On submarine
   could not possibly cover all approaches. On the
   other hand one submarine can pretty well cover Dilli
   and have a fair chance of covering Ombai as well.
   The chances of making daylight attacks seem better
   here as entrance and exit to Kopenhagen are probably
   made during darkness.

- 12 -

— page 144 —
1913 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge. Sent ahead 5 knots.
1917 Changed course to 270 degrees, running patrol off Cape Krus.
2100 Changed course to 000 degrees.
2205 Changed course to 180 degrees.
2305 Changed course to 090 degrees.

Positions.
0800 Lat. 090 - 13.81 - 3.
Long. 1230 - 37.01 - E.
1200 Lat. 090 - 22.01 - S.
Long. 1230 - 36.01 - E.
2000 Lat. 090 - 41.01 - S.
Long. 1230 - 28.31 - E.

Hills steamed 133.1
Fuel used 1542. gallons.
Course made good: 125 mi on course 244.
8.1 mi on various courses perrolling station.

Average speed 5.6

Fifteenth Day July 12, 1942.

0025 Secured battery charge.
0045 Changed course to 270 degrees.
0145 Changed course to 090 degrees.
0204 Changed course to 182 degrees.
0249 Changed course to 272 degrees.
0310 Changed course to 000 degrees.

— page 145 —
0916/AL2-1 SURFACETRTS SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

1. Narrative (Page 14).
   0415 Changed course to 180 degrees.
   0430 Submerged.
   0550 Changed course to 252 degrees.
   0605 Changed course to 180 degrees.
   0958 Changed course to 132 degrees heading for entrance to Deep Bay.
   1125 Sighted sailboat standing out of Deep Bay on north westerly course.
   1141 Changed course to 270 degrees to allow sailboat to pass well astern.
   1237 Changed course to 120 degrees sailboat seemingly running along the 100 fathom curve on east west line north of Guam Island.
   1355 Than three miles from 100 fathom curve had good look at entrance and could see nothing except sail boat.
   1404 Changed course to Q15 degrees to be off Cape Kurus at sunset.
   1904 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on one main engine. Went ahead 16 knot on three engines heading for Onuai Strait.
   2118 Changed course to 064 degrees. Received CSSP serial ninety two stating that Jeps had landed troops from alor in a village fifteen miles west of Dilli on the night of July. Decided to have a look in that direction.

Positions.
0800 Lat. 090 - 48.51' - 5.
    Long. 1230 - 24.01' - 8.
1200 Lat. 090 - 58.71' - 5.
    Long. 1230 - 27.21' - 8.
2000 Lat. 090 - 34.71' - 5.
    Long. 1230 - 35.61' - 8.

Miles steamed 77.6
Fuel used 291 gallons.
Course made good: V. rious, patrolling station.
Average speed 3.2 knots.

— page 147 —
SS196/AL2-1  SUBMARINES SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH YAR PATROL.
1. Narrative (Page 16)
   0415 Changed course to 272 degrees.
   0430 Submerged.
   0545 Changed course to 135 degrees.
   0904 Had good look at Dilli anchorage from two miles off shore. Nothing there. Changed course to 260 degrees heading down coast for Likisa Village.
   0955 Changed course to 255 degrees.
   1053 Changed course to 230 degrees.
   1135 Changed course to 250 degrees.
   1400 Had good look at Likisa Village from two miles out. Nothing there.
   1405 Changed course to 000 degrees.
   1801 Changed course to 040 degrees.
   1900 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge, ...ent ahead at water making speed, 9 knot. Headed toward strait between Kambing and Alor.
   2008 Changed course to 000 degrees.
   2130 Changed course to 270 degrees.
   2150 Changed course to 150 degrees.
   2215 Identified light as new brush fire on Timor. Changed course to 270 degrees.
   2305 Secured battery charge.
    Positions.
   0800 Lat. 080 - 30.8' - S.
    Long. 1250 - 33.6' - E.
   1200 Lat. 080 - 16.7' - S.
    Long. 1250 - 19.0' - E.
   2000 Lat. 080 - 16.7' - S.
    Long. 1250 - 19.0' - E.
    Files stored 131.
    Fuel used 873 gallons.
    Courses made good: Various, patrolling station.
    -Average speed 5.5 knot.

Eighteenth Day July 15, 1942.
0009 Changed course to 090 degrees.
0055 Changed course to 180 degrees.

- 16

— page 148 —
0155 Changed course to 270 degrees.
: 0240 Changed course to 000 degrees.
: 0315 Changed course to 130 degrees.
: 0346 Changed course to 140 degrees.
: 0415 Submerged about half way between ramming and timor.
: 0545 Changed course to 090 degrees.
: 0827 Changed course to 080 degrees.
: 1218 Changed course to 061 degrees.
: 1340 Lead good lock at Dillian anchorage. Nothing there.
   Changed course to 030 degrees.
: 1638 Changed course to 270 degrees perrolling line halfway
   between Dillian anchorage.
: 1856 Changed course to 000 degrees.
: 1903 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge. Went ahead 9 knots.
   Heading up strait between lar and ramming.
: 2030 Received CSS/P serial ninety five stating that five
   ships had been sighted north of Timor during last
   week. One was seen in peeping. Having pretty well
   covered Orbal Strait decided that all ships must have
   been seen in water Strait or else they are coming
   through the barrier by using Pantar and lar straits.
   Little more information as to general locality in
   which sighted, time, and general courses would have been
   of invaluable aid in planning operations. Decided to
   move through water Strait tonight, then to move west
   skirting the coast tomorrow and have a look at villages
   along the way.
: 2050 Changed course to 180 degrees. Increased speed to 12
   knots.
: 2113 Changed course to 140 degrees.
: 2154 Then four miles south of ramming changed course to 081
   degrees.
: 2300 Secured battery charge. The press news tonight mentions
   that a ship was bombed and sunk at Kahabhi on lar.
   This may be the base. The patrol craft who picked us
   up the night of the tenth were using. Also I may be
   heading in the wrong direction but an continuing
   through water tonight never the less.

- 17 -

— page 149 —
0800 Lat. 08°0' - 29.9' - S.
    Long. 125° - 19.1' - E.
: 1200 Lat. 08°0' - 29.7' - S.
    Long. 125° - 26.7' - E.
: 2000 Lat. 08°0' - 18.7' - S.
    Long. 125° - 22.4' - E.

Miles steamed 123.6.
Fuel used 742 gallons.
Courses made good: Various - patrolling station.
Average speed 5.2 knots.

Nineteenth Day July 16, 1942.

0300 Changed course to 101 degrees.
0421 Submerged.
0425 Changed course to 120 degrees.
0548 Changed course to 150 degrees.
0608 Changed course to 210 degrees.
0621 Changed course to 150 degrees.
0803 Changed course to 225 degrees.
0944 Changed course to 240 degrees. Had good look at Laga Village. Nothing there.
1043 Changed course to 260 degrees.
1138 Changed course to 290 degrees.
1230 Changed course to 305 degrees.
1358 Changed course to 250 degrees.
1545 Changed course to 000 degrees to get back to center of fleet. Strictly for surfacing. Crew needs a careful sweep of the north coast of Timor from Tg Chatu to Tg Bundura. There are no indications of ships or activities of any kind and apparently no decent anchores.

1845 Changed course to 091 degrees.
1855 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge, cruising at five knots.
2055 Changed course to 260 degrees.
2145 Received CSSP Pinnety eight direction SELRAVEN to remain west of longitude one twenty seven while in Timor area. Also modifying orders to patrol Kendari Staring Bay area until five - august and depart from ambon area on ten August passing east of Timor.

— page 150 —
1. Narrative (Page 19).
2315 Secured battery charge.
Positions.
0300 Lat. 080° - 18.5' - S.
Long. 126° - 45.7' - E.
1200 Lat. 080° - 24.0' - S.
Long. 126° - 34.0' - E.
2000 Lat. 080° - 13.3' - S.
Long. 126° - 32.4' - E.
Miles steamed 140.2
Fuel used 1211 gallons.
Courses steered: Various, patrolling station.
Average speed 5.8 knots.

Trentieth Day July 17, 1942.
0235 Changed course to 080 degrees.
0330 Changed course to 180 degrees to investigate light which proved to be on Minor.
0405 Changed course to 271 degrees.
0415 Changed course to 091 degrees.
0430 Submerged.
0610 Changed course to 210 degrees.
0755 Changed course to 226 degrees.
1030 Had good look at 6massa Village. Nothing there.
1105 Changed course to 270 degrees.
1130 Had good look at Linsana Village. Nothing there.
1249 Changed course to 330 degrees (T) to get back to center of "Mizar Strait. Have now located over the entire north coast of Minor from Tg Chata to Tg Farmbale at close range. There are no signs of activity of any sort except at Dilli where army trucks were seen. Having cruised up the coast from Upang to Dilli twice with the only signs of activity being the one ship sighted on the afternoon of the tenth and the three patrol craft encountered that night, decided to spend tomorrow, which will be the last day in this area, looking in at Dilli and patrolling Ombai Strait. Believe now the best plan would have been to spend the entire patrol period at this junction point.
1545 Changed course to 080 degrees. Now in the middle of "Mizar Strait.

- 19 -

— page 151 —
1916/12-1 SUBMARINES SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. STARVEN (SS196)

U.S.S. STARVEN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

1. Narrative (Page 20).
1900 Surfaced. Changed course to 090 degrees. Commenced battery charge. Patrolling at five knots.
2100 Changed course to 261 degrees.
2305 Secured battery charge.
Positions:
0800 Lat.  C-0° - 21.91' - S.
Long. 12° - 13.51' - E.
1200 Lat.  C-0° - 23.11' - S.
Long. 126° - 08.61' - E.
2000 Lat.  08° - 16.31' - S.
Long. 126° - 16.21' - E.

Files steamed 94.7
Fuel used 371 gallons.
Courses made good: V.rious, patrolling station.
Average speed 4 knots.

Twenty First Day, July 13, 1942.
0200 Changed course to 080 degrees.
0230 Changed course to 260 degrees.
0330 Observed flashing light signals on sides of peak at Tg Subana. Evidently this is an aircraft lookout station.
0400 Submerged in a position half way between Dilli and Kambing Island. Circled on station.
0545 Set course 090 degrees.
0542 Changed course to 180 degrees heading for Dilli.
0819 Changed course to 261 degrees.
0830 Had good look at Dilli anchorage. Nothing there.
0839 Changed course to 341 degrees.
0945 Changed course to 301 degrees.
1607 Changed course to 060 degrees.
1800 Decided to proceed Kendari by going up Crcyhound - Dilli line until east of Borro leho, thence along route from this point to Kendari.
1853 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge. Cent ahead 12 knots.
1906 Changed course to 005 degrees.

— page 152 —
35196/12-1  SUBMARINES SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S.S.R.VEN (SS196)
U.S.S. S.S.R.VEN (SS196) - FOURTH U.S. PATROL.

1. Narrative (Page 21).
2000 Received CSS.P. Serial ninety nine stating medium size freighter was at Koepang Pier at fifteen hours
   - 2nd on seventeenth, she probably came through Omba
   - 3rd while S.S.R.Ven was patrolling water street

2001 Changed course to 343 degrees.
2110 Changed course to 208 degrees (T) end increased speed to 16 knot to investigate loom of light.
2123 Changed course to 243 degrees. slowed to ten knots. Light identified as brush fire on hills of Timor.
2355 Secured battery charge.
Positions.
0800 Lat. 08°-28.2' - G.
    Long. 125°-32.6' - E.
1200 Lat. 08°-23.8' - G.
    Long. 125°-26.6' - E.
2000 Lat. 08°-08.4' - G.
    Long. 125°-21.0' - E.
Miles steamed 113.8
Fleet used 570 gallons.
Courses made good: Various patrolling station.
.Verage speed 4.8 knots.

Twenty Second Day, July 19, 1942.
0508 Submerged.
1820 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge. sent ahead 10 knt.
Took star sights.
1900 Changed course to 020 degrees.
2105 Sighted Iororo Iaho Island bearing 315 degrees, distant
   12 miles.
2121 Changed course to 000 degrees.
2240 Secured battery charge.
Positions.
0800 Lat. 06°-47.0' - S.
    Long. 124°-57.0' - E.
1200 Lat. 06°-36.9' - S.
    Long. 124°-55.0' - E.
2000 Lat. 06°-12.0' - C.
    Long. 124°-45.3' - E.

- 21 -

— page 155 —
83196/A12-1  SUBMARINE SURVIVAL REPORT
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SAVANNAH (SS196)
U.S.S. SAVANNAH (SS196) - FOURTH ENEMY PATROL
1. Narrative (Page 24)
1838 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge. ...ent ahead 7
knot. Cruising up Enui - Boeroe course line.
2315 Secured battery charge. Increased speed to 9 knot.
2355 Changed course to 180 degrees.
Positions.
0800 Lat. 03° - 32.0' - S.
Long. 123° - 21.0' - B.
1200 Lat. 03° - 35.0' - B.
Long. 123° - 15.8' - B.
2000 Lat. 03° - 30.0' - S.
Long. 123° - 28.4' - E.
Files steamed 124.8
Fuel used 755 gallons.
Courses made good: Various patrolling station.
Average speed 5.2 knot.

Twenty Sixth Day, July 23, 1942.

0125 Slowed to 5 knot. Viability shut in due to heavy rain.
0430 Submerged. Set course 270 degrees.
1302 Changed course to 180 degrees.
1554 Changed course to 000 degrees.
1853 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge. ...ent ahead 10 knot.
2010 Changed course to 025 degrees heading up Mandarin
Greyhound line.
2330 Changed course to 205 degrees. Secured battery charge.
Positions.
0800 Lat. 03° - 36.8' - S.
Long. 123° - 39.0' - E.
1200 Lat. 03° - 36.8' - S.
Long. 123° - 27.3' - B.
2000 Lat. 03° - 23.8' - S.
Long. 123° - 18.0' - E.
Files steamed 96.9
Fuel used 526 gallons.
Courses made good: Various, patrolling station.
Average speed 4.2 knots.

- 24 -

— page 158 —
1. Narrative (Page 27)
   - 0455 Submerged.
   - 1817 Surfaced. Tormented battery charge. Sent ahead 8.0 knots.
   - 2300 Secured battery charge.
   - 0800 Let. 043.53.81 - 83.
   - 1200 Let. 050.01.51 - 83.
   - 2000 Let. 050.16.41 - 83.
   - 0302 Changed course to 173 degrees.
   - 0508 Submerged.
   - 1804 Surfaced. Tormented battery charge. Sent ahead 8 knots.
   - 1922 Charged course to 149 degrees.
   - 2300 Secured battery charge.
   - Positions.
   - 0800 Let. 060.19.51 - 83.
   - 1200 Let. 060.30.01 - 83.
   - 2000 Let. 070.03.01 - 83.
   - 1200 Let. 070.03.01 - 83.
   - 2000 Let. 070.03.01 - 83.
   - 1200

— page 159 —
SS196/A12-1  SUBMARINES SOUTH EAST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520.
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEALVEN (SS196)
U.S.S. SEALVEN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.
1. Narrative (Page 28).
Thirty First Day July 28, 1942.
0034 Placed No. 3 and No. 4 main engines on propulsion at 50 percent.
0206 Secured No. 3 engine. Continued on No. 4 at 40 percent.
    Leeger readings on both 400,000 ohm.
0410 Sighted Rubbing Island bearing 150 degrees distant
    15 miles.
0433 Changed course to 210 degrees.
0505 Submerged.
0545 Changed course to 230 degrees passing west of Alor.
0816 Changed course to 241 degrees passing through
    Omai Strait.
1527 Changed course to 245 degrees.
1718 Changed course to 270 degrees.
1823 Surfaced. Started no. 3 main engine at 50% on battery
    charge. Sent aimed 7 knot, 40% on No. 4 main engine.
1927 Changed course to 250 degrees.
Positions.
0800 Let. 080- 22.8' - S.
    Long. 1250-18.9' - E.
1200 Let. 080- 28.6' - S.
    Long. 1250 06.0' - E.
2000 Let. 080- 42.5' - S.
    Long. 1242 35.0' - E.
    Illes steamed 137.7
    Fuel used 720 G 110ins.
    Courses made good:
    28.2 on 190 degrees.
    80.5 mi on 145 degrees.
    29.0 mi on 219 degrees.
Average speed 5.2 knot.

- 23 -

— page 163 —
1. Narrative (Page 32).
   2037 Secured battery charge.
    Positions.
   0800 Lt., 21° - 05.3' - S.
    Long., 113° - 35.1' - E.
   1200 Lt., 21° - 46.9' - S.
    Long., 113° - 12.9' - E.
   2000 Lt., 23° - 07.0' - S.
    Long., 113° - 02.7' - E.
    Miles steaed 246.
    Fuel used 2329 g.1ons.
    Courses ace good: 246 .i. on 213 degrees.
    Average speed 10.2 knot.

Thirty Eight Day, August 4, 1942.
0744 Charged course to 172 degrees.
0855 Sighted BBY (See i. craft Sighted).
0915 Entered bombing restricted lane.
    Positions.
   0800 Lt., 25° - 15.0' - S.
    Long., 112° - 14.7' - E.
   1200 Lt., 26° - 03.2' - S.
    Long., 112° - 22.2' - E.
   2000 Lt., 27° - 29.8' - S.
    Long., 112° - 31.5' - E.
    Miles steaed 265.7.
    Fuel used 2162 gallons.
    Courses ande good:
    81.7 - i. on 192 degrees
    52.0 - i. on 172 degrees.
    132.0 - i. on 198 degrees.
    Average speed 11.1 knot.

Thirty Ninth Day, August 5, 1942.
0244 Charged course to 145 degrees.
0715 Connected stea. line at various speeds conducting tests on .o. 3 and 10. 4 generators.
1007 Sighted periscope bearing 030 degrees distant about 1200 yards (See Description of Contacts). Commenced steering various curves at various speeds to avoid possible torpedoes.

- 32 -

— page 164 —
1038 Resumed base course and generator tests.
1115 Sent message to COST reporting possible enemy
    periscope.
1250 Received message from COST stating that a Hudson
    was being sent to investigate reported periscope.
1400 Sighted Hudson (see aircraft sighted).
    Positions.
0800 Let. 29° - 36.9' - S.
Long. 113° - 24.3' - N.
1200 Let. 30° - 15.5' - S.
Long. 113° - 53.5' - N.
2000 Let. 31° - 09.2' - S.
Long. 114° - 36.5' - N.
    - U.S. is used 271.0 mi.
    - Hull used 2100 gallons.
    - Course used good: 134.5 mi. on 172 degrees.
    - Course speed 11.3 knots.
    - Average speed 11.3 knots.
Portsmouth Day, -aught 6, 1942.
0105 Sighted bottomed Island Light bearing 140 degrees,
    distant 23 miles.
0103 Changed course to 137 degrees heading for rendezvous.
    - U.S. course 233.8 mi. on 145 degrees.
    - Course used good: 133.0 mi. on 145 degrees.
    - Course speed 11.3 knots.
    - Average speed 11.3 knots.
    - Course speed

— page 165 —
35

SS196/A12-1
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)
June, 28, 1942 to August 6, 1942.
Minus Eight Zone time.

2. Weather.
Tiner Area.
Generally heavy and overcast in daytime from about one and one half hours after dawn until sunset. Sea during this time is almost flat, an easterly breeze springs up about sunset and lasts for about three hours. Sky again becomes overcast and haze sets in about twenty one hundred clearing at about 0330. Visibility very sharp about one hour before dawn.
Venus is very brilliant causing exceptional visibility.
Kenderi Area.
Frequent heavy rain squalls. Sky clear about twenty-five percent of time both day and night. Sea usually calm, almost glassy, in morning and becomes choppy in afternoon.
Banda Sea.
Overcast about sixty percent of time. Seas from SE, Choppy, WNW from SE, 2.

— page 166 —
35/196/AL12-1 SUBMARINES SOUTH EAST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-0-C-R-J-T
U.S.S. SEAHAVEN (SS196)
U.S.S. SEAHAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH MAR PATROL.

June 28, 1942 to August 6, 1942.

Minus Eight Tinc Zones.

3. Tidal Information.

Off Kooenga: Set 210 degrees.
    Drift 0.5 knots.

Ombei Strait: Set 260 degrees.
Narrows: Drift 2.7 knots.

North of Dilli: Set 270 degrees.
    Drift 0.2 knots.

Peter Strait: Set 080 degrees.
    Drift 0.9 knots.

Flores Sea: Set 210 degrees.
North of Alor: Drift 0.5 knots.

Off Kandari: Set 020 degrees.
    Drift 1.0 knots.

Tinca Sea between Kendari and Tincor: Set 290 degrees.
    Drift 1.0 knots.

Ombei Passage & Flores Sea: Set 240 degrees.
    Drift 1.0 knots.

Timor to Iri: Set 220 degrees.
Cape, Australia: Drift 0.5 knots.

"Cost Coast of Australia"; Drift 0.5 knots.

"Cost South Asia"; Drift 0.5 knots.

— page 167 —
SS196/12-1  SUBMARINES SOUTHWEST 2.CIFIC
Serial 0-520

S-E-C-R-D-T
U.S.S. STARVEN (SS196)

U.S.S. STARVEN (SS196) - FOURTH U.S. PATROL.

June 28, 1942 to August 6, 1942.

Kinus - Light Zone Time.

4. Navigation: - lds.

No navigation lights were lighted in Timor Area and Banda Sea - Reg.

— page 168 —
SS196/AL12-1  SUBMARINES SOUTH EAST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEALVEN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.
June 28, 1942 to August 6, 1942.
Ninus Eight Zone Time.

5. Description of Contacts (Page 1).
First Contact July 10, 1942.
Time of sighting 1729.
Targets position: Jet. 08°-33' - S.
Long. 125°-15' - B.
Target course: 250 degrees.
Targets speed: 12 knots.
Estimated tonnage: 10,000.
Looked like the Hikawa -cru class. Had outstanding bridge structure well for yard of single sloping stack.
Steck amidships over the tappered to be passenger cabins.
Estimated length was 500 feet and estimated stack height 80 feet. No king posts noted but target was in haze and had about 90 degree angle on bow. No escorts seen at time of first sighting. Impossble to close at this time due to long range and large angle on the bow.

Second Contact July 10, 1942.
Time of sighting 2120.
Believed to be same ship sighted at 1729.

Third Contact July 10, 1942.
Time of sighting 2241.
Position Let. 08°-58' - S.
Long. 124°-27' - B.
Estimated course: 240 degrees.
Estimated speed: 15 knots.
Estimated tonnage: 500.
The only thing seen was a twenty one inch search light about thirty feet above the water. Judging from this and the sound of propellers, also that only eight depth charges were dropped by three vessels, it is believed she was probably something about the size of a Corvette. The range at time of sighting was about 2000 yards.

- 1 -

— page 169 —
SS196/A12-1  SUBMARINES SOUTH WEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-2-C-R-R-T
U.S.S. STARVATN (SS196)
U.S.S. STARVATN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

5. Description of Contacts (Page 2).

Fourth Contact August 5, 1942.

Time of sighting: 1007.

Position: Tgt. 290 - 54.5' - S.
Tongue 113° - 38.8' - E.

Periscope sighted by lookout be ring 080 degrees
dist.nt 1200 yards. About two feet of scope showing.
In sight about thirty seconds. Ship at this time on
course 126 degrees, speed 10 knots. SUGT toward with
full rudder and went ahead emergency, 14 knots. scope
was seen at in by lookout end C.O.D., when ship was
heading about 065 degrees. -t this time scope secured to
be at n angle and was in sight for only about five
seconds.

— page 171 —
SS196/A12-1
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH PTCTRL.
June 28, 1942 to August 6, 1942.
Minus Eight Zone Time.

7. Particulars of attacks. (Page 1).

Attempted attack July 10, 1942.
Lat. 06° - 58' - S.
Long. 124° - 27' - E.

The speed of the target was checked at twelve knot while she was in sight at sunset. By navigational run from sunset until 2120 her course was determined as 240 degrees and her speed as thirteen knot.

A position broad on her port bow was reached at 2220 and it was intended to fire on this surface using straight bow shots at about 90 degrees port - track. In preparation for this the gyro angles on all torpedoes were set on twenty three degrees left, this sight angle for a thirteen knot target speed, ninety degrees track, low speed on torpedoes. Intended to fire with submarine on course 353 degrees. Her speed setting on torpedoes was chosen because of the possibility of under estimating the range. The plan was to aim the ship's bow firing the first torpedo on quarter ship's length astern, the second at the mainmast, the third at the forecast and the fourth on quarter ship's length ahead.

At 2240 the bow plan was abandoned in favor of a submerged sound approach due to depth charges herd at 2215 and disturbances in the direction of the target at 2236. This plan was in turn abandoned at 2241 when this vessel was illuminated at close range.

The target itself was over her herd by sound. Three different sets of light first across were audible during the depth charging and search.

The sky was overcast with frequent rain squalls and a haze hanging over the water making the horizon barely discernible. The sea was smooth with only an occasional white cap. The water was unusually phosphorescent.

An analysis of the failure of this attack reveals the following faults or items of faulty judgment on the part of the Commander Officer:

1. The firm conviction on the part of the Commander Officer that the target was unescort.
A good look at a range of 8000 yards at sunset revealed no escort of any type. At this time target

— page 172 —
SS196/A12-1  SUBMARINES SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. SEA\*VEN (SS196)

U.S.S. SEA\*VEN (SS196) - FOURTH AIR PATROL.

7. Particulars of attacks (Page 2).

was passing through the narrows in Ombaí Passage and it was reasoned that if unescorted here she would probably not rendezvous with anti-submarine vessels until at least midnight, it at about which time she would be rounding the las, Evan after the first four depth charges were heard this opinion was held to, the idea being that the target might have become aware of our presence and dropped charges herself to force us down while she made a get away unnoticed.

2. Underestimating the range at which a submarine could be seen or perhaps her engines heard. The target was never one than a very faint blob on the horizon and it was reasoned from this that she could not possibly see us. We should have gone on a divergent course and obtained a greater range aboard in order to get ahead undetected. It is not known whether we were picked up by sight, undetected sound, or above water sound. It can not be determined. A range aboard was in order as later events proved.

3. Failure to go on ahead at high speed and either dive on the target's track or out run her to Koppang where she was apparently heading, and attack submerged at dawn.

4. Once having heard depth charges it was foolhardy to slow to listen without diving. We should have maintained speed or submerged.

5. The plain foolhardiness of planning a surface attack when we had the targets course and speed and could have, with more sensible planning, fired by sound submerged at least any chosen range without the danger of being detected before firing.

— page 174 —
51/96/A12-1  SHB.ARINES SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-E-C-R-R-T
U.S.S. SERAVEN (SS196)
U.S.S. SERAVEN (SS196) - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

June 28, 1942 to August 6, 1942.

Zone Time Minus Eight.

9. Major Defects Experienced. (Page 1)
July 12, 1942.
0430 Outboard air cooler No. 1 Main motor developed leak.
Cooler was secured and drains left open. No attempt was made to plug this leak as it would entail men working in too close proximity to live busses in main power cubicle.

July 24, 1942.

0430 Stearin on 4 min engine floating the battery, carrying a zero float, making 160 turns 2400 amps, 265 volts 7.2 field amps with 1150 amps 130 volts 3.3 field amps on main motors, with bus tie in closed position.
We were making ready to dive, as ships in the sea and exhuist blowers were stopped and shifted from Series to Parallel combation.

On the first step thicky kicked out breaker on auxiliary boiler and running room. At same instant, 4 min generator tripped out, we immediately took megger reading on 4 finding a zero ground. A block cable at the generator block, finding the generator reading (10 meg) took reading back through and located ground in ammeter 4 generator, which was jetted between frame and portable board on front of main control board and found out and meter dead, 4 is red led and ipl led meter with spare.

Blower circuit normal and apparently tripped through faulty rheostat. Adjustments in starting.

Ground readings were taken on 11 generator circuits. (See attached table for ground readings taken at time of short circuit and for remainder of patrol).

It was considered advisable to stop and check all generator readings. All when not so hulled clear of area and stopped at 0040 on the 25th of July. At this time No. 1 main generator was secured from charge and 3 and 4 secured from propulsion. All three were still warm and No. 2 had been secured for four hours. Readings on both forward generators were exceptionally low. Readings on 3 and 4 were low but not alarmingly so.

— page 176 —
9. In the first 1942, the submarine was on patrol in the Pacific Ocean. (Page 3).

June 28, 1942

| Date | Sub | S. |

— page 177 —
9. J r D e f c t s x p o r t i c e d ( R e g e 4 ) .
July 23, 1942

| Time | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | Remarks |
|------|----|----|----|----||
| 0200 | 400,000 | 250,000 | 400,000 | 300,000 | 535 K on #4. |
| 0230 | 400,000 | 250,000 | 400,000 | 1 | 425 K on #4. |
| 0330 | 450,000 | 300,000 | 250,000 | 2 | do |
| 0515 | 600,000 | 400,000 | 300,000 | 3 | do |
| 0730 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 300,000 | 4 | do |
| 1815 | 850,000 | 650,000 | 500,000 | 5 | do |
| 2030 | 700,000 | 500,000 | 250,000 | 6 | do |
| 2300 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 250,000 | 7 | do |
| July 29, 1942 | 0200 | 800,000 | 650,000 | 4 | 425 K on #4. |
| 0525 | 850,000 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 5 | do |
| 0930 | 600,000 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 6 | do |
| 1330 | 800,000 | 650,000 | 500,000 | 7 | do |
| 1725 | 850,000 | 650,000 | 500,000 | 8 | do |
| 2345 | 600,000 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 9 | do |
| 2330 | 650,000 | 650,000 | 500,000 | 10 | do |
| July 30, 1942 | 0200 | 800,000 | 650,000 | 4 | 425 K on #4. |
| 0600 | 800,000 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 5 | do |
| 1000 | 900,000 | 700,000 | 500,000 | 6 | do |
| 1400 | 1 | 800,000 | 500,000 | 7 | do |
| 1800 | 1 | 800,000 | 500,000 | 8 | do |
| 2045 | 800,000 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 9 | do |
| 2300 | 650,000 | 500,000 | 500,000 | 10 | do |
| July 31, 1942 | 0200 | 500,000 | 400,000 | 4 | 425 K on 3 end 4. |
| 0645 | 500,000 | 400,000 | 300,000 | 5 | do |
| 1045 | 800,000 | 500,000 | 500,000 | 6 | do |
| 1445 | 800,000 | 500,000 | 500,000 | 7 | do |
| 245 | 700,000 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 8 | do |
| 23 | 700,000 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 9 | do |
| 23 | 700,000 | 600,000 | 500,000 | 10 | do |
| August 1, 1942 | 13 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 425 K on 3 end 4. |
| 40 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 4 | do |
| 08 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | do |
| 100 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | do |
| 1245 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | do |
| 17 | 6 | 5 | 2 | 2 | do |
| 2100 | 600,000 | 350,000 | 250,000 | 4 | do |

- 4 -

— page 178 —
9. Jg. Defects reported (Page 5).

| Time | #1    | #2    | #3    | #4    | Remarks          |
|------||||||
| 0100 | 600,000| 500,000| 3      | 5      | 535 K on 3 and 4. |
| 0400 | 500,000| 400,000| 2      | 3      | do             |
| 0800 | 550,000| 500,000| 3      | 5      | do             |
| 1200 | 600,000| 500,000| 3      | 4      | do             |
| 1600 | 600,000| 500,000| 3      | 6      | do             |
| 2000 | 600,000| 500,000| 3      | 4      | do             |

| Time | #1    | #2    | #3    | #4    | Remarks          |
|------||||||
| 0100 | 500,000| 500,000| 2      | 4      | 535 K on 3 and 4. |
| 0600 | 600,000| 500,000| 3      | 5      | do             |
| 1200 | 600,000| 500,000| 3      | 5      | do             |
| 2010 | 650,000| 600,000| 3      | 6      | do             |
| 0630 | 600,000| 500,000| 3      | 4      | 535 K on 3 and 4. |
| 0715 | 700,000| 450,000| 3      | 4      | 642 K on 3 and 4. |
| 0820 | 700,000| 500,000| 3      | 5      | do             |
| 0920 | 700,000| 550,000| 2      | 7      | 1015 556 K on 3 and 4. |
| 1130 | 700,000| 550,000| 1.5    | 3      | 856 K on 3 and 4. |
| 1230 | 600,000| 600,000| 2 (3)  | 2      | 856 K on 3. |
| 1340 | 600,000| 600,000| 2 (b)  | 3      | do             |
| 1535 | 650,000| 600,000| 2      | 3      | 856 K on 3 and 4. |
| 1740 | 700,000| 500,000| 3      | 2      | 856 K on 3 and 4. |

| Time | #1    | #2    | #3    | #4    | Remarks          |
|------||||||
| 0530 | 1.3    | 700,000| 4      | 10     | do             |
| 0530 | 15     | 17     | 3      | 3      | do             |

— page 179 —
35196/12-1 SUBMARINE SOUTHWEST 2.3HTC
Serial: 0-520
G.S.C-R-T
U.S.S. STALWIT - FOURTH - R2.TROL.
June 28, 1942 to August 6, 1942.
Inius light Time Zone.

10. Remarks:

In additional report on the tactical troubles
which developed will be submitted after a more
exhaustive examination upon return to port.

Radio reception during the entire patrol was excellent.

The following details submitted on the Ball schedule.

1. During submerged operations the balls could not be heard at all.

2. In the selector switch in position "A" the schedule could be heard at all times on the surface, strength five.

3. In the selector switch in position "B" (normal loop) rotation was inaccurate. During day-light surface operations rotation was impossible.

4. In the switch between strength two (open loop or short loop) the signal could be heard strength four at all hours, three being no operation different in reception between the two positions.

The radar scans of questionable value. On August 4, a problem was in sight for about fifteen minutes at a distance of about six miles and no radar contact could be established. The initial problem was in the horizon. The equipment seemed to function normally but with negative results. On August 5, radar contact was established on a Hudson type bomber; at six miles. A was tracked in two miles, lost as he circled close aboard, and tracked out again to eight miles before losing contact. An altitude of about 2500 feet, somewhat higher than the previous plan, which might account for making contact.

— page 180 —
35/96/12-1 SUBMARINES SOUTH EAST PACIFIC
Serial: C-520
S-2-C-R-T
U.S.S. STARVIN (SS196)
U.S.S. STARVIN - FOURTH PATROL
June 28, 1942 to -u.e.st 6, 1942.
Minus eight Tine Zone.

Description of Routes Followed.

Departed Fremantle proceeding up bombing restricted lane thence to Lt. 200 - S., Long. 114° - 05' - S.

From this point direct to center of passage between Roti and Sube Islands, or Timor N.J.I.

Looked in at Keeping By Tiror thence skirted east and North Co sts of Tiror through Unbai Passage to Dilli.

Patrolled off Dilli, Onbai Passage, Oter Strait, making one trip to Kocpeng and back.

Passed between -lor and Kanbing patrolling up Grcyhound to Onbai line until off morro who, thence direct to Kendari.

Patrolled off Kendari running t night on G.c.yhound-Kendari, Abon-Kendari, and Booroc-Kendari lines.

Returned Fremantle using this same route but by-passing Dilli, -ter -treat, and Kocpeng.

— page 181 —
1. The S.E.A.R.VEN's Fourth War Patrol covered a period of forty days of which twenty-one were spent on patrol station. The weather was in general good.

2. The lack of targets and necessary early termination of the patrol of the S.E.A.R.VEN are regrettable. Only one opportunity for attack was gained and this was unsuccessful because of detection of the submarine before firing. However, the decision to make a night surface attack appears sound. Observation indicated that the target was unescorted, the relative ability to remain unsighted would normally be in favor of the submarine, and the knowledge of speed and course gained tended to reduce the disadvantage of uncertain data which usually must be accepted in a night attack. Submarines have been encouraged to remain on the surface and attack if possible as the ability to maintain contact with the target is greater. The surface attack under conditions which were satisfactory appears to have been the proper choice. This is but one more instance which indicates that the silhouettes of our standard type submarine are excessive. The method of firing contemplated by the commanding officer of using the bow as the point of aim and of spreading from aft forward has merit.

3. It is believed that the cable failures on the S.E.A.R.VEN resulted from poorly sealed cable ends which allowed the cable insulation to become impregnated with moisture. At high rates and high temperatures the insulation had a tendency to bubble through the armor. This condition has not been noted on any other submarine to conditions in SEADRAGON.

4. Repairs are being made by renewing the main power cables on numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4 main generators. 800,000 circular mill cable is being used in place of the original 650,000 circular mill cable in order to utilize 500 feet of cable left from previous repairs to the SE.A.R.VEN while awaiting an additional 600 feet ordered from the United States by air.

JAMES FIRE

— page 182 —
11/01/1942
From: Commander U.S. NAVAL FORCES
To: The Commander in Chief, U.S. FLEET.
Subject: U.S.S. STANFORD Report of Fourth War Patrol - Period June 23, 1942 to August 6, 1942.

1. Forwarded, despite to electric cables are progressing, however, they are at present held up due to fact that material has not arrived from United States.

A. S. CARPENTER.

DISTRIBUTION:
COMMON
(3)
CONSUSPAC
(5)
CONSTANTANT
(4)
CONSTOSPAC
(1)
CONSURON-2
(2)
CONSURON-6
(2)
CONSURON-5
(1)
S/M SCHOOL, N.L.
(4)
S/M DIVCON.
(1)
EACH S/M BASIC
V.A. (1)

CLASSIFICATION THIS CORRESPONDENCE
CHANGED TO:
AUTHORITY
DATE: OCT 3, 1942

A. S. McDILL
Flag Secretary.

FILMED

L

53

— page 183 —
35W/A16-3/  S.S. ARIES, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial (S-0037)  U.S.S. SARGO (SS186), Flagship,
September 2, 1942.

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
SEARAVEN: Secret 1r S3196/A12-1
Serial C-520 of 8-6-42.

From:  The Commander Submarines, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC.
To:  The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. FLEET.
Via:  The Commander U.S. Naval Forces Based WESTERN
ASSAMALTA.

Subject:  U.S.S. SEARAVEN (33196) - Report of Fourth
War Patrol - Period June 28, 1942, to August
6, 1942.

1. During SEARAVEN's approach for 10 July attack,
depth charges heard in direction of target when submarine
was about 6000 yards away again indicates that enemy escorts
may be expected to drop depth charges at random when the
presence of a submarine is suspected in the hope of alarming
the submarine sufficiently to cause abandonment of the attack.
Previous reports of submarines off port or radar contact by
ship or shore installations may result in enemy using such
tactics while escorting.

2. Narrative of this patrol is too long. Instructions for reports direct they should be as brief as possible consistent with clarity and give all details of important events only. Data such as course changes exact where required for other events is unnecessary.

DISTRIBUTION
COMMENT
CONSUL
CON

— page 184 —
5510/12
Serial: C-521
SURFACES
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)
24 November 1942
From: Commander Officer, U.S.S. SEARAVEN
To: Commander Task Force 51.1
Subject: War Diary Patrol - U.S.S. SEARAVEN
Reference: (a) Corvus SCPC serial 0150 of June 27, 1942.

1. The War Diary for the fifth war patrol, U.S.S. SEARAVEN, is herewith submitted.

2. This vessel had been in over-the-rail and upkeep status at Fremantle, Western Australia since her return from the Fourth War Patrol on August 6, 1942. During this period the main power cables for main generators No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4, were inoperative due to breakdown of install. The cables for No. 1 main generator were not inoperative because of non-availability of material and inability to procure this cable from the United States. The install time was not more than 160 days. The main generator is now 3000 hours in operation. The cable is in the process of being replaced by a new cable. The cable is in the process of being replaced

— page 185 —
1. Narrative.
: Zone: eight time.
: First Day September 27, 1942.
: 0745 Underway from alongside U.S.S. HOLLAND, Frenantle, W.A.
: 0800 Cleared boom rate in company with U.S.S. LARK (CSS-2) and SKIPPACK.
: 1030 Arrived on station for exercises with Consubron T.O. Submerged and conducted two practice approaches on U.S.S. LARK.
: 1306 Surfaced.
: 1320 Released by Consubron Two. Proceeded up bombing restricted lane.
: 1450 Sighted Hudson bomber. Fired flare and submerged.
: 1627 Surfaced.
: 1300 Exploded recognition signals with an Australian Corvette on the horizon to westward.

Positions:
: 1200 Lat. 31 - 48.8 - S.
: Long 115 - 31.0 - E.
: 2000 Lat 31 - 16.6 S.
: Long 114 - 54.0 E.

Distances made good 22 mi.
Fuel used 320 gallons.
Fuel on hand bearing of petrol 90,225 gallons.

Second day, September 28, 1942.
: 0710 Sighted PBY.
: 0927 Made train i dive.
: 1012 Surfaced.
: 1257 Changed base course to 351 degrees.

— page 186 —
55196/12
Serial: C-521
SUBJECT: U.S.S. SMRAVEN (SS196)

FILM WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SMRAVEN (SS196)

1. Narrative (page 2)
1340 Sighted PBY.
1408 Lade training dive.
1635 Surfaced.

Positions
0800 Let. 29 - 33.5 - S.
Long 113 - 34.5 S.
1200 Let 29 - 08.0 S.
Long 113 - 10.0 S.
2000 Let 27 - 59.5 S.
Long 112 - 40.7 S.

Distances made good 7.5 mi. on 270, 194.8 mi. on 325.
Fuel used 1937 ft. 1.
Average speed 5.5 knots.

Third Day September 29, 1542.

0000 Placed Lt. L. Tracy on sick list with bed cold and high fever.

1015 Made training dive.

1116 Surfaced.

1210 Churned base course to 337 degree heading for Christmas Island.

1527 Made training dive.

1617 Surfaced.

Positions
0000 Let 26 - 06.2 S.
Long. 112 - 30.0 S.
1200 Let 25 - 33.0 S.
Long 112 - 26.0 S.
2000 Let 24 - 25.0 S.
Long 112 - 26.0 S.

Distances made good 10.5 on 325, 208.5 on 351.
Fuel used 1270 gallons.
Average speed 9.1 knots.

- 2 -

— page 187 —
1. Narrative (Page 3)
Fourth Day, September 30, 1942.
1000 Made training dive.
1120 Surfaced.
1700 Made training dive.
1330 Surfaced.
2014 Received message from CTF 51.1 directing SEARAVEN include data on enemy aircraft, possible landing fields indications of land or float fighters and radars on Christmas Island if enemy activity warrants bombing.
2100 Stopped and lay to while motoring in No. 3 and No. 4 main bearings on No. 3 main engine.
2157 Underway on base course 337 degrees.

Positions
0800 Lat. 22 - 33.9 - S.
Long 111 - 02.1 - S.
1200 Let 22 - 02.0 S.
Long 110 - 48.0 E.
2000 Let. 20 - 38.6 S.
Long. 110 - 22.0 S.
Distance made good 231.5 miles on 338 degrees.
Fuel used 1702 gallons.
Average speed 9.7 knots.

Fifth Day, October 1, 1942.
1100 Made training dive.
1225 Surfaced.
1724 Made training dive.
1836 Held battle surface. Pired five rounds of 3"/50 target ammunition.

— page 188 —
2000 Decided to commence a barraged daylight running tomorrow at 0800. We will then be 230 Mi. from Christmas Island and it will mean the difference of arriving just before dawn as compared to arrival after dark if we continued surface running tomorrow. This slight delay seems only justified as we will be certain of arriving undetected by any change patrol plane.

Positions:
0800 Lat. 18 - 48.0 - 3.
Long. 109 - 19.0 E.
1200 Lat. 18 - 14.1 S.
Long 109 - 03.5 E.
2000 Lat. 17 - 04.5 S.
Long 108 - 32.0 E.

Distance made good 247 mi. on 337 degrees.
Fuel used 294 gallons.
Average speed 10.3 knot.

Sixth Day - October 2, 1942.

0604 Changed course to 340 degrees.

0758 Submerged.

1902 Surfaced.

2030 Commanding Officer turned in with Influenza.

Positions:
0800 Lat. 14 - 57.0 S.
Long. 107 - 32.9 S.
1200 Lat. 14 - 44.5 S.
Long 107 - 28.0 E.
2000 Lat. 14 - 20.5 S.
Long 107 - 19.0 E.

Distance made good 222.8 miles on 339 degrees.
Fuel used 2518 gallons.
Average speed 9.5 knot.

Seventh Day, October 3, 1942.

0605 Submerged.

1910 Surfaced.

— page 189 —
1. Narrative (Page 5)

Facts:
- 0800 Let 12 - 20.0 S.
- 1200 Let 12 - 08.0 S.
- 2000 Let 11 - 55.0 S.
- 0400 Let 11 - 26.3 S.
- 0553 Submerged. Cruised up east coast of Christmas Island about two miles off the beach. Rounded North West Point and had look at Flying Fish Cove. Saw no signs of activity except one small patrol boat of about 50 tons anchored in cove and indications of salvage work being undertaken on beached steamer three quarters of a mile Southwest of Smith Point.

1840 Set course 340 degrees to be well clear of Island upon surfacing.

2022 Surfaced. Patrol led on courses 340 degrees and 155 degrees.

Positions:
0800 Let 10 - 36.8 S.
1200 Let 10 - 31.0 S.
2400 Let 10 - 31.0 S.
Long. 105 - 47.0 E.
Long. 105 - 47.

— page 190 —
1. Narrative (Page 6).

Ninth Day, October 5, 1942.

0555 Submerged. Steering v. rious courses at various speed nokin' careful survey of area around Flying Fish Cove. No signs of activity except around the stranded merchantman.

1251 Fired one torpedo into stranded merchantman. Hit anidships. That should end un-selvage operations. Stood out and cleared to noi thward of Island.

1950 Surfaced. Sent message to CTF 51.1 stating no aircraft radar or other activities observed Christmas Island and that SEAHAVEN put one torpedo into engine of stranded near with barge alongside eight cables south of Smith Point.

2051 Set course 335 degrees (T) for scenda Straits.

Positions
0800 Let. 10 - 23.0 S.
Long 105 - 32.0 E.
1200 Let. 10 - 24.1 S.
Long. 105 - 40.6 E.
2000 Let. 10 - 11.8 S.
Long. 105 - 45.0 E.

Distance made good 130.2 Mi. on various courses. Fuel used 989 gallon. Average speed 5.5 kn. 9.

Tenth Day, October 6, 1942.

0611 Submerged.

0716 Changed course to 000 degrees (A).

1930 Surfaced.

2045 Changed course to 010 degrees (T).

Positions
0800 Lt 08 - 35.2 S.
Long 104 - 51.0 E.
1200 Lst. 08 - 23.5 S.
Long. 104 - 51.0 E.
2000 Let. 07 - 57.4 S.
Long. 104 - 51.0 E.

— page 191 —
51/96/A12
Serial: C-521
SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARLVEN (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 7)
   Distance made good 130 Mi. on various courses.
   Fuel used 989 gallons.
   Average speed 5.5 knots.

Tenth Day, October 6, 1942.

0611 Submerged.

0716 Changed course to 000 degrees (T).

1930 Surfaced.

2045 Changed course to 010 Degrees (T).

Positions
0800 Lat. 08 - 35.2 S.
    Long 104 - 51.0 E.
1200 Lat. 08 - 23.5 S.
    Long 104 - 51.0 E.
2000 Lat. 07 - 57.4 S.
    Long. 104 - 51.0 E.

Distance made good 153 miles.
    14 Mi. on 000, 113.7 Mi. on 335,
    33.5 Mi. on various courses.
Fuel used 1528 gallons.
Average speed 6.4 knots.

Eleventh Day, October 7, 1942.

0234 Sighted land dead ahead very close. Changed course
    to 180 degrees.

0323 Changed course to 240 degrees.

0551 Submerged.

0655 Changed course to 010 to identify land.

0834 Changed course to 330 degrees.

0900 Removed Lt. L. Kercy, USN., from sick list and
    restored him to full duty status. Commanding Officer
    now almost entirely free of fever and able to take
    active charge.

- 7 -

— page 193 —
1. Narrative (Page 9)
1210 Sighted Maru bear nr 097 degrees distant 14,000 yards, (see Section 5).
1950 Surfaced and cruised to 3.5" in same manner as last night.
Position.
0800 Lat. 06 - 13.2 S.
Long. 105 - 28.8 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 04.8 S.
Long. 105 - 40.8 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 14.2 S.
Long. 105 - 34.3 E.
Distance made good 130.2 mi. on various courses.
Fuel used 746 gallons.
-*V*erage speed 5.4 knots.

Fourteenth Day, October 10, 1942.
0000 Cruising through Great Channel on an easterly course heading for a dawn position to the eastward of Irakatau Island.
0520 Cheered course to westward.
0525 Sighted enemy convoy bearing 230 degrees, distant 6 miles.
0530 Reversed course.
0538 Leading vessel of convoy turned on searchlight.
Submerged. (See Sect. 5 and Sect. 7 for additional data)
0634 Fired three torpedoes. One premature explosion. No hits.
0800 Commenced approach - night mine layer (See Sec. 5).
0855 Gave up approach. Took up 3.5" course toward Great Channel.
1952 Surfaced. Set course West through Great Channel.
2220 Cleared course to 090 degrees.

— page 194 —
SS196/12
Serial: C-521
SECRET
PTY. WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEAPLANE (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 10).

Positions
0800 Lat. 06 - 09,8 S
Long. 105 - 32,8 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 13,4 S.
Long. 105 - 28,7 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 20,6 S.
Long. 105 - 14,2 E.

Distance made good 122,8 mi. on various courses.
Fuel used 859 gallons.
Average speed 5.5 knots.

Pifteenth Day, October 11, 1942.

0000 Cruising on courses 090 - 270 four miles south of
Krakatau Island.

0531 Submerged.

1115 When in 35 fathom of water near channel axis,
changed course to 052 degrees, parallel to axis.

1329 Changed course to 232 degrees.

1800 Changed course to 270 degrees.

1918 Surface. Stood out to middle of Great Channel.

2340 Changed course to 090 degrees.

Positions.
0800 Lat. 06 - 16,2 S.
Long. 105 - 22,3 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 13,0 S.
Long. 105 - 36,3 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 17,0 S.
Long. 105 - 25,3 E.

Distance made good 138,6 mi on various courses.
Fuel used 862 gal.
Average speed 5,8 knots.

Sixteenth Day, October 12, 1942.

0000 Cruising on course 090 degrees on line four miles
South of Krakatau Island.

0313 Reversed course.

— page 195 —
1916/12
Serial: C-521
SECRET
FIFTH WAR P.TROL - U.S.S. SEAR.VEN (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 11).

1410 Reversed course.

0528 Submerged.

0849 Changed course to 045 degrees.

1058 Changed course to 213 degrees.

1305 Sighted ship bearing 046 degrees, distant 8 miles.
Started approach.(See Sect. 5 and 7).

1950 Surfaced. No engines evictible for power or charging.
(See Sect. 9 for detsils).

2000 First engine available.

2015 Second engine available.

2112 Sent following message to CTF 51.1:

SATCO METAL CO. HAS BEEN PEARING SEING SQUEEZED OUT BY SLIP PRESSURE ON NO. 1, NO. 2 AND NO. 4 MAIN EJECTORS X DILICATIC TISLIGHT X LAST SET ODD SIZE HEARINGS INSTALLED NUMBER THREE X SPARES ENLIGHTENED NO SORT OF DILUTION X SANK EIGHT THOUSAND TON GERMAN SOUTH BOUND EAST KRAKATAU TODAY X SAY SOUTH SOUTH CONCRETE CARRIER ON NINETH X NO SIGILS OF HOUSTON X TIRED THREE AT THREE SHIPS NORTH POUND CONVOY EAST OR KRAKATAU ON TWENTY X ONE PERCENT NO HITS X GOOD AREA

Positions
0800 Let. 06 - 12.0 S.
Long. 105 - 33.0 B.
1200 Let. 06 - 19.7 S.
Long. 105 - 22.3 E.

Distance made good 127 MILES. on various courses.
Fuel used 655 gallons.
Average speed 5.3 knots.

Seventeenth Day, October 13, 1942.

0000 Patrolling line between first Point end Cepo Redak.

0530 Submerged on axis of F-ines Channel, six miles out,
Moved in to four miles and maintained station for rest of day.

- 11 -

— page 196 —
55196/A12
Serial: C-521
SECRET
PIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 12).

1943 Surfaced. Stood back and forth on NW - SE course for rest of night.

2012 Received CTF 51.1 Serial Twenty six stating that CSWT joined in congratulations and telling us to remain on station as long as engineering plant permits.

Positions

0800 Lat. 06 - 43.9 - S.
Long 104 - 56.0 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 42.5 S.
Long 105 - 07.2 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 44.0 S.
Long. 105 - 07.7 E.

Distance made good 111.5 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 702 gallons.
Average speed 4.7 knots.

Eighteenth Day, October 14, 1942.

0000 Patrolling a NW - SW line off Princes Channel.

0540 Submerged seven miles off Princes Channel on axis.
Boved in to four miles and maintained station.

1945 Surface. Stopped up to northward to enter Soenda
Strait before dawn.

Position

0800 Lat. 06 - 43.7 S.
Long. 105 - 06.0 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 42.4 S.
Long 105 - 08.5 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 48.5 S.
Long. 105 - 08.5 E.

Distance made good 119.3 miles on vario s courses.
Fuel used 7.2 gallons.
Av. rate speed 5.0 knots.

Nineteenth Day, October 15, 1942.

0300 Arrived at spot four miles South of Krakatau Island.
Cruising back and north on 260 degrees - 080 degrees.

— page 197 —
55196/412
Serial: C-521
SUBARIES, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEAHAVEN (55196)

1. Narrative (Page 13).
0516 Submerged.
0611 Commenced cruising up to eastward of volcano on course 045 degrees - 240 degrees.
0700 Commanding Officer came down with the German Measles.
1953 Surfaced. Commenced cruising on 090 degrees - 270 degrees about four miles south of volcano.

0800 Lat. 06 - 13.0 S.
Long. 105 - 37.7 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 15.2 S.
Long. 105 - 35.8 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 17.3 S.
Long. 105 - 27.9 E.

Distance made good 135.2 -iles on various courses.
Fuel used 809 gallons.
Average speed 5.6 knots.

Twentieth Day, October 16, 1942

0515 Submerged.

0623 Commenced cruising NE and SW to eastward of Krakatau.
1500 Had small electrical fires in pump room (See Sec. 9).
1950 Surfaced. Commenced cruising east and west line about five miles south of volcano. Brilliant moonlight.

0800 Lat. 06 - 13.4 - S.
Long. 105 - 33.3 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 13.0 S.
Long. 105 - 36.0 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 15.0 S.
Long. 105 - 32.2 E.

Distance made good 127.1 Mi. on various courses.
Fuel used 798 gallons.
Average speed 5.3 knots.

— page 198 —
0530 Submerged, Commenced patrol on courses 205 - 025. Bright moonlight with intermittent rain squalls.

: 0800 Lat. 06 - 16.8 S. Long. 105 - 30.1 E.
: 1200 Lat. 06 -13.3 S. Long. 105 - 36.7 E.
: 2000 Lat. 06 - 16.4 S. Long. 105 - 23.9 E.

Distance made good 124.5 miles on various courses. Average speed 5.2 knots.

Twenty-Second Day, October 18, 1942.

0530 Submerged, Commenced patrol on various courses about ten miles west of Princes Island.

1940 Surfaced, encountered continuous rain with visibility reduced at times to 400 yards. Cruised on course 310 - 030.

: 0800 Let. 06 - 33.5 - S. Long. 104 - 53.5 E.
: 1200 Lat. 06 - 31.4 S. Long. 104 - 58.7 E.
: 2000 Lat. 06 - 33.0 S. Long. 104 - 55.9 E.

- 14 -

— page 199 —
1. Narrative (Page 15)
   - Distance made good 141.8 miles on various courses.
   - Fuel used 880 gallons.
   - Average speed 5.9 knots.

Twenty Third Day October 19, 1942.

0530 Submerged. Rain continuing. Visibility practically nil.
Settled on course 210 until visibility improved.

1117 Visibility improved. Position about eight miles south-west of trenches Channel. Changed course to 080.

1300 Changed course to 330. Decided to move back to patrol station east of Kracktau tomorrow.

1935 Surfaced. Set course 030.

2014 Received CTF 51.1 serial 35 stating that some ship is routed through Sonda Strait via:
   - Afirm Lat. 5 - 32-8.
   - Long. 106 - 05 - E.
   - Baker Lat. 5 - 50.0 S.
   - Long. 106 - 04 - E.
   - Cast Lat. 5 - 52 - S.
   - Long 105 - 50 E.
   - Dog Lat. 6 - 12 - S.
   - Long 105 - 33 - E.
   Decided to raise back and forth through point "Dog".

Positions.
0300 Lat. 06 - 40.0 - S.
   Long. 104 - 57.8 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 45.5 - S.
   Long 104 - 58.0 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 30.0 S.
   Long. 104 - 55.3 E.

Distance more good 123.2 Miles on various courses.
Fuel used 769 gallons.
Average speed 5.1 knots.

Twenty Fourth Day, October 20, 1942.

0025 Continued cruising back and forth through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220.

0515 Submerged.

— page 200 —
SS196/A12
Serial: C-521
SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 16)
   - 1220 Small schooner of about 100 tons passed about two miles east of volc:no on northerly course. Did not attack with three inch gun as it would give away our position to bigger game.
   - 2009 Surfaced and cruised down to the middle of Great Channel, then back through point "Dog".

   Positions
   - 0800 Lat. 06 - 07.7 - S.
   - 1200 Lat. 06 - 13.5 S.
   - 2000 Lat. 06 - 15.1 S.
   - 1200 Long 105 - 31.7 E.

   Distance made good 131.6 miles on various courses.
   Fuel used 723 gallons.
   Average speed 5.5 knots.

Twenty-Fifth Day, October 21, 1942.

0000 Cruising on axis of Great Channel.

0315 Commenced cruising through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220.

0430 Observed signal lights on Vandang Belak, Thartway Island, and the coast of Java at Tg Bankuang.

0515 Submerged. Very poor visibility during the day because of frequent rain squalls.

2000 Surfaced. Commenced cruising on axis of Great Channel.

2014 Received following message from CTF 51.1:
   DOES TRAFFIC WARRANT SENDING: NOTHER SUBMARINE
   YOUR AREA TOWARD END OF YOUR PATROL

   Positions
   - 0800 Lat. 06 - 06.3 - S.
   - 1200 Lat. 105 - 38.2 E.
   - 2000 Lat. 06 - 12.5 S.
   - 1200 Long 105 - 35.5 E.
   - 2000 Long 105 - 36.2 E.

— page 201 —
5516/12
Serial: C-521
SECRET.
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. S.S. R.V. (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 17)

Distance made good 123.0 miles on various courses
Fuel used 721 gallons.
Average speed 5.3 knots.

Twenty-Sixth Day, October 22, 1942.

0000 Cruising on axis of Great Channel.

0340 Connected patrolling through point "Dog" on courses
040 - 240 degrees.

0515 Submerged.

0958 Sighted enemy aircraft (see Section 6).

1946 Surfaced. Heavy rain squalls have caused poor visibility all day.

2020 Connected cruising through Great Channel on courses
270 - 090 degrees.

2155 Sent following messages to CTF 51.1:

H.V.E. SCHED D NOTING SINCE TWELVETH X AREA
HOT ACTIVE & PARTILLED ALL BUT FOUR DAYS OFF
H.M.S.T.U. & CO.STRI.T RAIN

Positions
0300 Let. 06 - 09.3 - S.
Long. 105 - 36.5 E.
1200 Let. 06 - 12.0 - S.
Long. 105 - 33.7 - E.
2000 Let. 06 - 13.7 S.
Long 105 - 31.8 E.

Distance made good 123 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 683 gallons.
Average speed 5.1 knots.

Twenty-Seventh Day, October 23, 1942.

0000 Cruising on axis of Great Channel.

0530 Submerged. Heavy rain squalls made position doubtful.

0825 Connected patrolling through point "Dog" on base
courses 040 - 220 degrees.

1200 Heard three sets of p.g.s to northward. Heavy rain in
this direction. North i s developed.

- 17 -

— page 202 —
1957 Surface.

2037 Commenced patrolling Great Channel on course 270 - 090 degrees.

Fusilations.
0800 Lt. 06 - 13.2 S.
Long 105 - 23.8 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 37.5 S.
Long 105 - 10.9 S.
Long. 105 - 34.5 E.

Distance made good 126.5 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 810 gallons.
Average speed 5.3 knots.

Twenty-Eighth Day, October 24, 1942.

0000 Patrolling Great Channel.

0515 Submerged. Heavy rain squalls made position doubtful.

0702 Commenced patrolling through point "Dog" on base course 040 = 240 degrees.

1836 Heard pinging to southward.

1843 Sighted ANGRIRI type destroyer. Commenced attack.
See Sect. 7.

2035 Surfaced. Four torpedoes left aft. One forward.

2052 Commenced patrolling Great Channel on courses 260-080.

0800 Lt. 06 - 09.4 S.
Long. 105 - 33.3 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 07.5 S.
Long. 39.9 - E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 13.1 S.
Long 105 - 32.0 E.

Distance made good 127.9 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 751 gallons.
Average speed 5.3 knots.

— page 203 —
SS196/AL2
Serial: C-521
SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 19)
Twenty-Nineth Day, October 25, 1942.
0000 Patrolling Great Channel.
0445 Commenced patrolling through Point "Dog" on course
040 - 220 degrees.
0517 Submerged.
0925 Heard pinging to Northward.
0930 Sighted destroyer (See Section 5).
1230 Sighted destroyer (See Section 5).
1950 Surfaced.
2013 Commenced patrolling Great Channel on courses 260-080.
2115 Sent following message to CTF 51.1:

HISSED HIGH SPEED ALIGARI TYPE DESTROYER YESTERDAY
SHARAVEN AREA LONE ACTIVE COULD NOT CLOSE DESTROYER
OR TOMORRU CLASS TODAY

Would not ordinarily have sent this message as there we
some doubt as to whether the torpedo wakes were seen
on yesterday's attack and we were undoubtedly cut in
by R.D.F., during this transmission. Decided that the
information concerning activity and the types of
destroyers operating in this area would be of sufficient
value to CTF 51.1 to warrant disclosing our continued
presence to the Japs.

Position
0800 Lat. 6 - 12.0 S.
Long. 105 - 32.5 E.
1200 Lat. 6 - 13.2 S.
Long. 105 - 32.3 E.
2000 Lat. 6 - 17.1 S.
Long. 105 - 28.8 E.

Distances made good 120.8 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 696 gallons.
Average speed 5.0 knots.

- 19 -

— page 204 —
55196/A12
Serial: C-521
SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)

1. Narrative. (Page 20)
Thirtieth Day, October 26, 1942.

0000 Attrolling Great Channel.

0330 Commenced patrolling through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220 degrees.

0515 Submerged.

1950 Surfaced.

2035 Commenced patrolling Great Channel on courses 270 - 0C.

Positions.
0800 Let. 6 - 09.7 - S.
Long. 105 - 35.1 - E.
1200 Let. 6 - 12.2 - S.
Long 105 - 33.6 - E.
2000 Let. 6 - 15.0 - S.
Long 105 - 30.3 - E.

Distance made good 127.5 miles on various courses.
*uel used 807 gallons.
Average speed 5.3 knots.

Thirty-First Day, October 27, 1942.

0000 Patrolling Great Channel.

0502 Commenced patrolling through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220 degrees.

1943 Surfaced.

1958 Changed course to 260 degrees, patrolling Great Channel on this course end reverse.

Positions.
0800 Let. 6 - 13.0 - S.
Long. 105 - 32.0 - E.
1200 Let. 6 - 11.6 - S.
Long. 105 - 32.7 - E.
2000 Lat. 6 - 20.0 - S.
Long 105 - 26.8 E.

Distance made good 128 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 751 gallons.
Average speed 5.3 knots.

- 20 -

— page 205 —
55196/A12
Serial: C-521
Secret
SUBMARINES, SOUTH EAST PACIFIC
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARLEVEN (SS196)
1. Narrative (pages 21)
Thirty Second Day, October 28, 1942.
0000 Patrolling Great Channel on courses 090 - 27
Positions
0800 Lt. 6 - 10.5 - S.
Long. 105 - 34.6 - E.
1200 Lt. 6 - 09.7 S.
Long 105 - 35.3 E.
2000 Lt. 6 - 15.3 - S.
Long 105 - 30.3 E.
Distance made good 128.2 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 748 gallons.
Av.rage speed 5.3 knots.
Thirty-Third Day, October 29, 1942.
0000 Patrolling Great Channel.
0515 submerged.
0530 Commanded patrolling through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220 degrees S.
1122 sighted German merchant bearing 155 degrees, distant sea miles. (See Sec. 5).
1950 surfaced.
2000 Commanded patrolling Great Channel on courses 260 - 090.
Positions
0800 Lt. 05 - 10.2 S.
Long 105 - 35.0 E.
1200 Lt. 06 - 12.2 S.
Long. 105 - 32.8 E.
2000 Lt. 06 - 17.7 S.
Long. 105 - 23.5 E.

- 21 -

— page 206 —
1. Narrative (Page 22).

Distance made good 125.1 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 763 gallons.
Average speed 5.2 knots.

Thirty-Fourth Day, October 30, 1942.

0000 Patrolling great channel. Decided to alter method of
retrolling strut. From observing ships passing
through to date it appears that shipping is using
both sides of the Strait. The north bound convoy
passed near point "Dope" shortly after dawn. The
south bound German passed this point between 1400
and 1500. The south bound concrete carrier passed
opposite this point some six miles away at about
1300. The north bound German was opposite this point
about seven miles away at about twelve hundred. This
German may have come through Princes Channel but
most likely came through Great Channel well to the
southward. With all of this in view laid out a
triangle to patrol situated as follows:

Point A: Let. 6 - 18 - S.
Long 105 - 32 - E.
Point B: Let. 6 - 11.0 - S.
Long 105 - 34.0 E.
Point C: Let. 6 - 18 - S.
Long 105 - 36 - O E.

The time schedule to be at these points would be as follows:

Point A about 0600.
Point B about 0830
Point C about 1130
Point D about 1400.

The remainder of daylight to be spent patrolling
leg B F.

0515 Submerged and conducted patrol as outlined above.

1950 surfaced and commenced patrolling Great Channel on
courses 270 - 090 degrees.

Positions
0800 Lat. 06 - 14.2 S.
Long. 105 - 30.8 E.

— page 207 —
1. Narrative (Page 23)
   - 1200 Lat. 06 - 17.0 S.
   - 2000 Long. 105 - 35.3 E.
   - 0515 Submerged.
   - 0640 Con. enc'd patrolline alone triangle E,T, G in same manner as yesterday.
   - 1955 Surfaced. Patrolline Great Channel.
   - 2009 Received message from CTF 51.1 stating that German merchantmen is in Bankok loaded and ready for sea, her departure date being unknown. If she leaves tomorrow she should pass through our area about the fifth or sixth. Contemplate extending time on station to intercept her if necessary.

Positions:
   - 0800 Lat. 06 - 12.5 - S.
   - 1200 Long. 105 - 33.0 E.
   - 2000 Long. 105 - 24.7 E.
   - 2000 Long. 105

— page 208 —
2008 Received the following despatch from CF 51.1:

CONTINUE PATROLLING SAME AREA IF THE CONDITION OF YOUR N. CHERRY PERMITS UNTIL THE THIRTEENTH OF NOVEMBER NO RELIEF IS AT PRESENT AVAILABLE. WHEN FLASHED ADDS OF Y.R ACTIONS. LEAVE EXCESS FUEL IN EXHAUST ON YOUR RETURN TRIP. WHEN REPORTING IN TENDER REPORT YOUR SUBMITTED TITLE OF "IRRIVAL PERMANENTLY YOU LEAVE CULP."

2030 As no other submarine is to patrol this area decided to report after the next attack or at a later date to avoid giving away our continued presence by breaking radio silence.

0800 Lat. 06 - 12.5 S.
Long 105 - 21.6 E.
1200 Lat. 06 - 14.4 S.
Long 105 - 35.9 E.
2000 Lat. 06 - 17.3 S.
Long 105 - 35.9 E.

Distance made good 124.3 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 752 gallons.
Average speed 5.2 knots.

Thirty-Seventh Day, November 2, 1942.

0000 Patrolling Great Channel.

0100 Decided to patrol this rough point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220.

0515 Submerged.

0758 Commenced patrolling through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220 degrees.

1948 Surfaced.

2025 Commenced patrolling Great Channel on courses 270 - 0.

0800 Lat. 6 - 14.5 S.
Long. 105 - 30.0 E.

- 24 -

— page 210 —
08196/A12
Serial: C-521
SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARATEN (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 26)

0800 Let. 6 - 11.2 S.
    Long. 105 - 35.5 E.
1200 Let. 6 - 13.1 S.
    Long. 105 - 32.3 E.
2000 Let. 6 - 16.2 S.
    Long. 105 - 29.7 E.

Distance made good 127.5 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 764 gallons. Average speed 5.3 knots.

Thirty-Ninth Day, November 4, 1942.

0000 Petrolling Great Channel.

0515 Submerged. Petrolling Great Channel mentioned yesterday.

0905 Sighted smoke bearing 239 degrees (T) distant about 10 miles. Commenced approach (see Sec. 5).

2000 Surfaced. Corr. and Petrolling Great Channel on course 270 - 090 degrees.

0800 Let. 6 - 18.4 - S.
    Long. 105 - 34.5 E.
1200 Let. 6 - 12.5 S.
    Long. 105 - 34.5 E.
2000 Let. 6 - 16.4 S.
    Long. 105 - 32.6 E.

Distance made good 127.0 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 719 gallons. Average speed 5.3 knots.

Fortieth Day, November 5, 1942.

0000 Petrolling Great Channel.

0515 Submerged and petrolled some area as yesterday.

1950 Surfaced. Petrolled Great Channel as before.

0800 Let. 6 - 16.2 S.
    Long. 105 - 35.4 E.
1200 Let. 6 - 20.2 S.
    Long. 105 - 34.5 E.
2000 Let. 6 - 21.7 S.
    Long. 105 - 29.2 E.

- 26 -

— page 211 —
1. Narrative (Page 27)
   - Distance made good 124.2 miles on various courses.
   - Fuel used 727 gallons. Average speed 5.2 knots.

Forty-First Day, November 6, 1942.

0000 Patrolling Great Channel.

0515 Submerged end patrolling same area as yesterday.

1100 Sighted small schooner of about 100 tons on easterly course. Came through center of area and changed course to 040 degrees. Did not attack as we would be observed from shore and would give away position to larger targets.

1948 Surface.

1950 Sighted light bearing 340 degrees (T). Tracked and closed. Developed into a small sailing vessel showing a steady light on easterly course through the channel.

2030 Conceived patrolling Great Channel on last West course.

0800 Lt. 6 - 18.2 S.
Long 105 - 33.8 M.
1200 Lt. 6 - 20.2 S.
Long 105 - 33.2 E.
2000 Lt. 6 - 20.5 S.
Long 105 - 28.0 E.

Distances are good 128.7 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 727 gallons. Average speed 5.3 knots.

Forty-Second Day, November 7, 1942.

0000 Cruising Great Channel.

0513 Submerged. Conceived patrolling same area as yesterday.

1415 Sighted two transports bearing 320 degrees (T) distant 7 miles. (see Sec. 5).

1952 Surface. Conceived patrolling Great Channel on base courses east-west.

- 27 -

— page 212 —
SS196/A12
Serial: C-521
SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)

1. Narrative (Page 28)

Sent following message to CTF51.1:

AT FOURTEEN HUNDRED TODAY TWO SOUTHBOUND SEVEN THOUSAND TONS PASSED DOWN VOLCANO SIDE OF STRAIT TO TRICES. CHANNEL MAKING TENITY OCTTS. ON THE FOURTH A NO. TH BOUND SLATEEN NOT TANKER PASSED OVER THE SAKE TRACK. A NORTH BOUND GERMAN DESTROYER ON THE THIRD AND A SOUTH BOUND THINK TAPS MAY BE ASSEMBLING AT CHRISTMAS ISLAND. TILL PATROL T13 ARE UNTIL NOV THIRTEENTH. SEARAVEN WAS ON TRONG SIDE O ST AIT FOR IL THESE CONTACTS.

2222 Received message from CTF 51.1 stating that enemy may have reinstalled a six inch gun near the tip of Smith point to the westward of Flying Fish Cove.

0800 Let. 6 - 13,7 - 3.
Long. 105 - 35,7 E.
1200 Let. 6 - 18,5 S.
Long. 105 - 32,1 S.
2000 Let. 6 - 19,8 - S.
Long. 105 - 27,7 E.

Distance made good 127.6 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 751 gallons. Average speed 5.3 knots.

Forty-Third Day, November 8, 1942.

0000 Petrolline Great Channel. Decided to move back to patrol through point "Dog". Believe nav that my greatest mistake was in not remaining there for the entire patrol despite traffic passing elsewhere in the Strait.

0515 Submerged. Commenced patrolling through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220 degrees.

1952 Surfaced. Commenced patrolling Great Channel.

Positions
0800 Let. 6 - 12,9 - S.
Long. 105 - 32,5 - A.
1200 Let. 6 - 11,7 S.
Long. 105 - 33,0 E.
2000 Let. 6 - 15,7 S.
Long. 105 - 28,6 E.
Distance made good 131.2 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 739 gallons. Average speed 5.4 knots.

— page 214 —
0000 Petrolling Great Channel.

1. 0515 Submerged. Petrolled through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220 degrees.
2. 1955 Surfaced. Petrolled Great Channel.

Forty-Seventh Day, November 12, 1942.

0000 Petrolling Great Channel.

0515 Submerged. Petrolled through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220 degrees.

1950 Surfaced. Petrolled Great Channel.

0800 Lat. 6 - 35.3 - S.
Long. 105 - 32.2 - E.
1200 Lat. 6 - 11.2 S.
Long. 105 - 32.7 - E.
2000 Lat. 6 - 13.2 S.
Long. 105 - 32.2 E.

Distance made good 127.2 miles on various courses.
Fuel used 780 gallons. Average speed 5.3 knots.

Forty-Eighth Day, November 13, 1942.

0000 Petrolling Great Channel.

0515 Submerged. Petrolled through point "Dog" on courses 040 - 220 degrees.

1500 Settled on course 220 degrees heading for Great Channel.

1716 Chared course to 260 degrees down center of Great Channel.

— page 216 —
1. Narrative (Page 32)
   - 1235 Sighted Christmas Island bearing 230 degrees, distant 15 miles, changed course to 240 degrees.
   - 2002 Surfaced and cruised on an east-west track eleven miles north of Christmas Island.

: 2. Positions
   - 0300 Lat. 9 - 58.0 - S.
   - Long. 105 - 40.0 Z.
   - 1200 Lat. 10 - 03.0 S.
   - Long. 105 - 45.8 S.
   - 2000 Lat. 10 - 12.0 S.
   - Long. 105 - 39.0 M.

: 3. Distance made good 138.2 miles on vari-ous courses. Fuel used 1155 gallons. Average speed 5.8 knots.

: 4. Fifty-First Day, November 16, 1942.
   - 0000 Cruising on east-west course about ten miles north of Christmas Island.
   - 0400 Set course 195 degrees for flying fish Cove.
   - 0447 Submerged.

: 5. 0745 Commenced reconnaissance area around flying fish Cove from about two miles off the beach. Took a series of pictures. Saw about twelve soldiers on beach near Smith Point. Noted stenciled ship we torpedoed on October 5, 1942 had settled considerably. Also noted that she was on the reef stern first instead of bow first as first thought.

: 6. 1300 Located what appears to be the barracks. It is a large building on the extremity of Rocky Point, two houses north eastward of the hospital. Saw what appeared to be a formation in front of this building. There we about thirty men in white uniform similar to our undress white and about an equal number in a darker uniform. They were drawn up in two groups of two ranks each which dispersed and entered the barracks at 1305. The Japanese flag is displayed from a high pole on the poil to the west of the barracks.

— page 217 —
1. Narrative (see 33)

1600 Heavily observed the settlement carefully and having seen no signs of activity except those mentioned above, decided against bombarding with the deck gun. A message received Nov. 7, 1942, had warned us of a six inch gun which might be installed on Smith Point. Could locate the only likely target would be the barracks and any bombardment position for this objective out of the probable arc of the line of a fun on Smith Point would place the hospital in line of fire only two hundred yard away.

1700 Set course to eastward.

1800 Went to 200 feet and tested all salt water piping and sea valves.

1950 Changed course to 150 degrees.

2003 Surfaced.

2005 Sighted lights of a ship about three miles north of Flying Fish Cove. Stood to not inward and patrolled for rest of night about six miles north of the cove. (See sections 5 and 7).

0800 Let, 10 - 23.5 - S. Positions
Long. 105 - 42.2 - S.
1200 Let, 10 - 20.3 - S.
Long 105 - 43.2 E.
2000 Let, 10 - 24.1 - S.
Long. 105 - 48.7 E.

Distance made good 122.1 miles on various courses. Fuel used 917 gallons. Average speed 5.0 knots.

Fifty-Second Day, November 17, 1942.

0000 Patrolling six miles north of Flying Fish Cove.

0420 Submerged.

0530 Changed course to 270 degrees to wait enough light for a fix.

0605 Changed course to 145 degrees heading in to Cove.

-33-

— page 219 —
1. Narrative (Page 35).

RET.ILIATED: 'ITH STORE PATTERY AND POSSIBLY BOBS X
SAW I. GERTH BOUND SEVER THOUS. ND TON FRONCHAIN IN
SOEND. STRAIT ON THE TH X ETA ENOUTH MOUNTING
T. EATY FIRST X S. NITTY FOUTH BOADING AT CHRISTI'AS
ISLAND

Position:
0800 Lt. 11 - 53.5 - S.
Lcnr. 106 - 57.0 - u.
100 Lt. 12 - 01.0 - s.
Long 107 - 37.2 - s.
Long. 107 - 37.0 - s.

Distance: 144.8 mi.
20 mi on 270 and 124.0 mi on 145.
Well used 1556 relations. -ve: see speed 6.0 knots.

Fifty-Fourth Day, November 19, 1942.

0000 Cruising on surface on course 145 degrees (T).

1811 Received message from CTF 51.1 congratulating SE. RAVEN
and stating we did not see the Dutch K twelve at Exmouth.

2100 Changed course to 150 degrees (T).

Position:
0800 Lt. 14 - 34.0 S
Long 108-57.(- u.
1200 Lt. 15 - 13.0 - S.
Long 109-25.6 - E.
2000 Lt. 16 - 24.0 - s.
Long. 110-26.0 E.

Distance: 236 miles on course 14 degrees.
Well used 3.94 fell as. average speed 9.3 not.

Fifty Fifth Day, November 20, 1942.

0800 Underway on course 150 degrees.

2200 Changed course to 160 degrees.

0530 Lt. 13 - 25.1 - s.
Long. 111 - 40.0 - E.

- 35 -

— page 220 —
1. Narrative (Page 36)
   - Lat. 19 - 06.0 - 3.
   - Long. 112 - 04.5 - 3.
   - Let. 20 - 24.5 - 3.
   - Long. 112 - 53.0 - 3.

   Distance made good 260.3 miles.
   - 83.3 mi on 140, 176.5 on 150.
   Fuel used 4104 gallons. Average speed 10.3 knots.

Fifty Sixth Day, November 21, 1942.

0800 Underway on course 160 degrees.

0134 Changed course to 103 degrees heading for Emsworth Gulf, west Australia.

0425 Changed course to 094 degrees.

0447 Sighted submarine bearing 075 degrees, distant 6000 yards. Took aim to the Dutch K Twelve.

0450 Observed submarine to be on a southerly course closing our track. Could see white wake on waves break ing over bow. Challenged and received no reply. Submarine continued closing track.

0456 Changed course to 150 degrees putting sub on our stern quarter, but to up to four engine speed and chalking at a time. The submarine submerged when we headed this last collision. Continued on this course to give him a wide berth. Position of this contact Lieu. 21 - 43.6 - 3, Long. 114 - 07.5 - 3.

0520 Changed course to 120 degrees.

0600 Sighted land ahead identified as NW Cape. Stood in to Emsworth on various courses.

0622 Set full watch near Cape to CTF 51.1 as a contact report:

SIGHTED SUBMARINE FOURTEEN MILES WEST OF NW CAPE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY. HAS CLOSING SEARAVENS TRACK AT HIGH SPEED. SUBMARINE SUBMERGED AT DAWN WHEN CHALLENGED.

— page 221 —
1. Narrative (Page 37)
2. 070 Signed submarine on the surface bearing 235 degrees (T), distant seven miles course about 060 degrees. Could not identify. His position at this time. Lt. 21 - 37.5 - S. Long 114 - 11.2 - E.
3. 090 Record recognition signals with a PBY on northerly course coming from fueling base.
4. 090 Exchanged recognition signals and calls with tender at fueling base.
5. 092 Record port side to fuel barge.
6. 114 Dutch submarine K. Twelve moored alongside fuel barge. A plane had previously contacted him and he stated he had submerged at dawn. The Commander Officer of the vessel contacted the Commanding Officer of the K. Twelve. Attention was paid to the contact this morning to which the "outman" remarked that he thought the S.S.S.S.V.H. to be almost to Fremantle. He offered no explanation for his actions in approaching us, in not answering up when challenged or in submerging when challenged this last time. He seemed resistant toward further conversation so no attempt was made to press the matter.
7. 1200 Completed de-fueling having transferred 15,000 gallons to the Fuel barge.
8. 1210 Undo way standing out of Armouth Gulf.
9. 1503 Set course 355 degrees with Fleming Head Light bearing 130 degrees, distant 5 miles.
10. 2200 Changed course to 186 degrees down southbound side of bomb-bag restricted lanes.

Positions.
0800 Aircraft Gulf, W.A.
1200 Armouth Gulf, W.A.
2000 Lt 21 - 56.1 - S.
Long. 113 - 04.5 S.

Distance made good 261.7 mi. 86 mi on 150, 30.0 Mi., on 186, 44.5 mi on 160, 45.0 mi on 103, 36 mi on various courses.
Fuel transferred 14,500 gallons.
Fuel used 4,000 gallons. Average speed 12.1 knots.

-37 9

— page 223 —
1. Narrative (Page 39)
Q100 Cheyenne course to 145 degrees.
0305 Sighted Rottnest Island light bearing 113 degrees, distant 25 miles. Changed course to 098 degrees.
0430 Contacted escort vessel and proceeding in to frigate.

Distances are good 227.0 miles.
27.0 mi on 145, 30.0 on 160, 61.0 on 155, 37.0 on 145, 43.0 on various courses.

Fuel used 3100 gallons.
Fuel on hand 2400 gallons.
Fuel transferred 14,500 gallons.
Total fuel used on patrol 73,325.
Total miles steamed 8911 miles.

— page 225 —
SS196/A12  SUBMARINES, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC
Serial: C-521
SECRET
U.S.S. SEA RYAN (SS196) - FIFTH WAR PATROL.

3. Tidel Infraction.

Off Christmas Island
Set SW Drift 1.3 knot.

Off Prince's Island
Set SW Drift 0.5 - 1.5 knot.

East Keketau Island
Set NE Drift 0.75 knot.

South Rakatau Island
Set SW Drift 0.5 knot.

- 41

— page 227 —
1210 October 9, 1942.
Sighted small krur identified as a concrete carrier, the
Kiotade krur of 3100 gross tons. She was heading on
course 225, speed 12, on a track between channel to
eastward of Thwartbay Island and Prices Channel. At time
of sighting her position was:
Lat. 6 - 05.8 - S.
Long. 105 - 46.5 - E.
Could not close closer than 4000 yards. Surmised she must
have been heading for Christmas Island.

0524, October 10, 1942.
Sighted convoy bearing 177, distant 55 miles from peak
of Kracketu Island on a starlight course. Three krur's
and escort. These ships were identified as one of the
SEIKAI HAKU class, two of the ADEN HAKU class. The
escort was a light mile layer of the TSUKUSHIMA class.
Convoy was coming from westward through Great Channel.
Estimated last head light on SEIKAI 90 ft., RAD by
sound varied from 30 to 102. Estimated speed as 8 knots.
Estimated tonnage 3500. Estimated first two ships
mentioned 5000. See Section 7 for additional details.

0800 October 10, 1942.
Sighted light mile 1.7 per ISTAKUSHIYA bearing 130 (T),
dist 114000 yards, course 280, angle on the bow 30 degrees
course. At this time the target was on axis halfway
between 'rices. Channel and channel to eastward of
Inverclyde Island. Staticated speed 10 knot. Estimated
masthead height 75 feet. All data checked nicely and it
looked like a perfect set-up until target changed course to
322 at 5000 yards and disappeared to northward. Upon making
tils on the presence of 90 degree port angle. This
vessel was very distinctive. She had a tri-boat foremast, one
stack well aft with three large objects midships which coul
have been searchlights or machine gun nests.
She was conducting a supersonic search, could be heard
before she was seen and after she was out of sight.

1312 October 12, 1942.
German vessel of the DDE class. Had four gal posts with
fore and mainmast on a starboard, high bridge - - - -
structure, one st ck, and what appeared to be one cabin
deck. She had one gun on the after deck house. Fainted a
light grey. She was heavily loaded and was flying the
"azii" emblem from the GFR. Sank her at Lat. 06-10 - S.,
Long. 105 - 36.7 - E. She had a risthead height of 120
feet. See Section 7.

— page 228 —
1843 October 24, 1942.
Japanese destroyer of the AIGIRI class. Two stacks, tripod foremost, miltity mainmast, high forecastle, torpedo tubes, low on main deck. Lt. 06 - 11.8 - S., Long 105 - 34.2 - N. See Section 7 for further details.

0925 October 25, 1942
Sword diving to northwest, 0930 made out shape of a destroyer in the fringe of a rain squall. Shape was not definite enough to identify as to type. The bearing was 000 degrees (T), range b ut 12000 yards, course about 210, came to normal approach course to close track. The position of the target at this time was about three quarter miles off the tan f. thom curve of Calmoyer reef. The target disappeared into the rain squall and could not be seen again. The pin ing aced away to the north westward. It is believed the destroyer passed between Hraketu and Lang Islands on a westerly course. She could not have passed to the eastward of Hraketu s this island was clearly discernible for the next three hours and a ship passing off this island would have been seen easily.

1230 October 25, 1942
Eighted destroyer of the TOHOZURU class, bearing 254, range 14000 yards. Heavy position, Lt. 6 - 13.7, Long 105 - 24.6, course 105. The submarine position was two miles bearing 300 from point "Dog". Came left to course 170 to close track. S.w. th if he rear ined on this course, 105 (T), it would be just about impossible to close to a firing range. Target was "ning", long scale, during this period. 1254 target started slow swing to left and finally settled on course 040. On the new course the submarine was about 60 degrees on the port bow at a range of 4000 yards. But bow toward him and swung to keep him bearing about dead ahead. The closest range was 3000 yards. During about ten minute interval when at closest ranges a sighted to the right and north long to short scale pin ing on sea seemed to be trained directly on us several times while at short scale. "He was clocked by sound at 140 RPH, checked as 13.5 knot by plot and between 13 and 14 by data computer but it is felt that the range was too great, especially for a one fish s.lvo. The commanding officer figured at the time that he was probably searching for us and would make several passes during one of which a much more favorable firing position could be reached. This surmise was entirely wrong as he discovered to the northward and did not return. This destroyer was of the TOHOZURU class. She had a tripod mast fore and aft, one stack, a break aft at the stack and three guns. She seemed to have a nest of torpedo tubes aft of the break. Estimated masthead height 75 feet.

— page 229 —
5. Description of enemy Contacts (Continued)

Except for the forecastle, which was clear of personnel, one might have thought she was running the rail. At least half of her personnel seemed to be stationed as lookouts. There looked to be about a dozen on the fire control platform and a few about every four feet over the rest of the crew.

1124 October 29, 1942
Sighted nests and stock of freighter bearing 155 degrees (T) distant 14000 yards. Her position at this time was L. 06 - 17 - S., L. 105 - 37.5 E. She was on an established course for a close about 050, but could not see enough of actual hull of the vessel could not be seen. She had a force maintained of the sense height, estimated as 120 feet. A very high stock was situated a little less than half the distance between nests for and of the mainmast. The bridge was about this same distance of the foremast. The bridge was about 150 feet from the foremast

— page 230 —
5. Description of Enemy Contacts (Continued)

was about two thirds of the way to the bow. Short king posts were situated about two thirds of the way forward between after deck house and bridge. Other king posts were just forward of the bridge. She had a red bow and cruiser could find no pictures in the silhouettes exactly like her. She was quite similar to the ITSUKUSHIMA IARU except that her foremast was forward, there were king posts near the bridge and she seemed a little smaller than 10,000 tons. Estimated masthead height 110 feet. The nearest we were able to approach her was 8 00 yards. Her position on sighting was: Let. 6 - 23.2 - S., Long., 105 - 25.6 - E. It is taken was fully loaded. Could not account for a loaded north bound tanker unless she was transporting oil collected from captured storage dumps in Java.

1415 November 7, 1942
Sighted two uncorrected ships of the KITAYAMA IARU class bearing 320 degrees (T), distant 8 miles on course 230 degrees. These ships were in column about 1000 yards apart. They appeared identical. They were of about 7000 tons, had two sets of kingposts both forward and aft, a high forecastle and after deck house, a large cabin space of three decks amidships; a single low ticstack amidships of the cabin structure, a rounded bridge, a red bow and a cruiser stern. They were carrying large deck load which could not identified at 8000 yards. They were making 20 knots. When south of Jakarta they did a right turn of sixty degrees for about five minutes, then a left turn of ninety degrees for disappeared seven minutes later in a rain squall on course about 200 degrees (T). The distance of sighting the sky was overcast and there were numerous rain squalls all around. The sea was choppy with numerous small white caps. The estimated length of these ships was 475 feet and estimated height of kingposts 80 feet. There was no force or maneuver structure. Position at time of sighting: Let. 6 - 15.0 - S., Long., 105 - 29.0 - E. Their course projected back through this position would indicate they passed very close to point "Dog".

1122 November 10, 1942.
Sighted merchantman bearing 218 degrees, distant 14000 yards course 080 degrees. During a left to course 160 degrees and went ahead standard speed taking observing lines each six minutes. Figured she would change course to about 040 to pass near point "Dog", so did not take normal approach course (128 degrees (T)). Target at time course so come to normal.

— page 231 —
5. Description of Enemy Contacts (Continued)

approach course (102 degrees) with target bearing 192 degrees (T). Target changed course to 040 at almost the exact center of the area we were patrolling now. 4 - 7. The closest range object inside was 5000 yards. Sound conditions were excellent and the target was picked up by sound at 9000 yards when slowed for an observation. Speed by sound was 132 RPE. which was estimated as 13 knots. Data computer speed checked 14 and plot at 13. The sky was overcast, the atmosphere hazy and the sea glassy.

The target was flying the French Tricolor from the gaff. She was of an estimated tonnage of 6000, a length of about 425 feet and had an estimated maximum height of 110 feet. A small cabin structure was located amidships with kingpots close to this structure both fore and aft. A squat stack was located in the center of this structure. She had single stick fore and mainmasts and a small after deckhouse. She was last seen headed for the port of the eastward of Thertwy Island. Position of target at sighting: Lat. 6-15.3 Long. 105 - 29.9 - E.

2005 November 16, 1942
Sighted range lights of ship about three miles north of Christmas Island heading in to Flying Fish Cove. Observed searchlight trained up side of hill for the next thirty minutes. Could not determine whether this light was on the ship or on Smith Point. It looked like a buoy a twenty four inch light. Saw lights from time to time to time in Flying Fish Cove for the rest of the night.

0705 November 17, 1942
S.N. ship mentioned last night. She was a longside the southmost dock at Flying Fish Cove, Christmas Island. She was a tanker with engine sp. off, a high stack, counter stern, vertical bow high bridge structure well forward, kingpots and foremast well forward and a triood mainmast. She was painted grey, dark grey. Crew from single ship on the bow of 60 - 70 degrees, port. At time of firing she was in shadow and blende in pretty well with the d.r.k b.ckground of the land. Estimate. her length to be 425 feet and her tonnage about 4000-5000 c.t time of firing. She looked exactly like pictures of the SIRETOKO, a Jap Hxvl 1 oiler, but this ship is given a displacement of 8000 tons. I believe now that she was that vessel.

— page 232 —
58196/AL2
Serial: C-521
SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEARAVIN (SS196)

6. Description of all aircraft sighted.

Sept. 27, 1942.
1450 sighted Hudson type bomber bearing 325 degrees, distant six miles. Altitude 1200 ft., course 145 degrees. Lat. 31-41.5 - S., Long. 115 - 15.6 - S.
Fired flare and submerged.

Sept. 23, 1942
0710 sighted PBY bearing 155 (T), distant 12 miles. Course, altitude 1500 feet. Lat. 29 - 40.5 - S., Long. 113 - 40.5 - E.

1340 sighted PBY bearing 031 (T), distant 12 miles. Course, altitude 1500 feet. Lat. 28 - 51 - S., Long. 115 - 35.7 - E.
"either of the above planes appear about 30 degrees on our course."

Oct. 22, 1942.
0958 sighted enemy bomber, two engines, landed plane type, bearing 110 (T), distant 7000 yards, altitude about 1000 feet. Course 070 degrees. Plane position Lat. 6 - 11.3 S. Long. 105 - 35.7 E.

Nov. 18, 1942.
0005 lookout sighted aircraft bearing 130 degrees (T), position about 50 degrees, altitude about 3000 feet. Course of 230 degrees. He saw it through a break in the clouds and it was not seen by the O.D. There was no indication in the radar. Lookout identified it from pictures as a British 50 bomber. The commanding officer said he saw it at the same time as the sighted aircraft. The aircraft was about 1000 feet high and 5000 yards away. The

— page 233 —
1251 October 5, 1942
Fired one torpedo into struck merchantman of the
KAILLIAH, a class three quarters of a mile south of Smith
Point, Christmas Island, Firing range 2300 yards. Depth set
at 2 feet, gyro angle zero degrees. Target presented about
120 degrees port angle. Torpedo exploded amidships of target
after run one minute thirty-three seconds. Used small head.

0524, October 10, 1942
Sighted convoy of three merchantmen and escort about four
miles south of Kekkatau Island, Great Channel, Convoy bearing
220 degrees (T), distant 4 miles. Own ship on course 240
degrees. Reversed course and attempted contact scouting.
At 0538 the leading vessel of the convoy turned searchlight
in our direction. Submerged. In detail they heard pings and
light screws being fired 175 degrees relative. Rigged for depth
charge and sent to 200 feet. Started to close heavy vessel
by sound. 0546 pings and light screws on constant bearing
of 175 relative using short scale and getting close. Changed
course to 040 degrees. Believed we were dead ahead of convoy
this time. Spanned up to 200 degrees. Went to 200 degrees
after 0634 the two periscope depth changing course to 080.
In column was presenting ships were well by. The last ship
of 3000 yards. 0636 fired No. 4 torpedo, fired No. 3 torpedo
18 seconds after No. 4. Fourteen seconds after No. 3 torpedo
heard loud explosion and fired No. 2 torpedo at sixteen
seconds. No. 3 and No. 4 torpedoes carried small heads. No. 2
torpedo had a large head. Went to 200 feet as explosion
looked fairly close and thought it might have been a bomb.
Went ahead full speed. Sound reported all three torpedoes
running after firing, but heard only two after the first
heavy explosion. Sound claimed that a second lighter
explosion was heard about one mile and fifty six seconds
after the first torpedo was fired. One after six seconds
have heard a second explosion. It is very doubtful if this was
a hit as all ships were afloat and well along their course at
0700. The two torpedoes did not explode at the end of their
run.

The following firing d.t.e is submitted:
Estimated range 3000 yards.
Estimated course 052 degrees.
Estimated speed 8 knots.
Tracks 110 degrees P, 114 degrees P, 121 degrees P.
Gyro 048 degrees R., 044 degrees R., 037 degrees R.
Firing int: 18 Sec. 16 Sec.

- 49 -

— page 234 —
55196/AI2- SERIAL: C-521 SECRET
FIFTH WAR PATROL - U.S.S. SEAHAVEN (55196)

7. Particulars of attack (Continued).

Point of aim:
No. 4 - Just inside stern.
No. 3 - Just inside bow.
No. 2 - Amidships.
All torpedoes set on depth of six feet.

At the time of striking this convoy the light conditions were too bright for a surface approach and too dark for one by riscove. Smooth sea, no white caps.

The screen took no apparent action after the fire was fired but instituted a search about one hour later.

1312 October 12, 1942
Sighted large reenchantment bearing 077 degrees (T), range 16000 yds on southwestly course. Crossed ahead at range of 6000 yds. Checked speed as 12 knot, enemy course 240 degrees (T), firing range estimated 1500 yards. Fire stern tubes. D.T. computer for stern tubes went out before firing. Fired 0 degree gyro on periscope bearings:

| Tube No. | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
||----|----|----|----|
|          | No. | No. | No. | No. |
|          | 0  | 0  | 0  | 0  |
|          | 0  | 0  | 0  |

— page 235 —
51

SS196/A12
Serial: C-521
SECRET

FIFTH WAR 2.TROL - U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)

7. Particulars of Attacks (Continued).

First three shots:
Estimated course 250 degrees. Estimated speed 5 knots, estimated track 130 degrees starboard.
For last shot:
Estimated speed zero.
Number one torpedo, fired with a periscope be ring of oil degrees, seemed to take a large angle to the right. Number two torpedo w s mist. Kenly fired by hand at the torpedo
securing number two the torpedo. The order "Fire two" was given
with 10. 2 door partially closed. The door was re-opened
and the torpedo fired. After 45 second interval, by hand.
Number three torpedo exploded prematurely with enough
force to knock some v.lve wheels off in control room.
Number four torpedo w s fired ninety three seconds after
number three using zero speed when it appeared the target
was dead in the water. This was fired on a relative bearing
of 6 degrees with a 6 degree R gyro angle and I cannot
account for its in v.ing missed. The point of aim in e ch case
was the stack. Gyro angles on which the first three fish
went out were not recorded.
Sound reported all torpedoes running just after each
fired. After missing with the bow tubes it was seen that
the target was settling by the bow end dead in the water s
stuck around to watch her sink, reloading two torpedoes in
each room. At this time sound started reporting numerous
small explosions at frequent intervals. These explosions
were heard for about one hour after the torpedo hit and must
have been the target missing up. About thirty minutes after
firing the last fish, sound reported light f.est scores and
pinging close aboard on port bow coming in f.st. R. used
periscope for a look out it was covered with an oil film and
was too hazy to be of use. Went to 200 feet. The last look
at the target was about five minutes before this at which
time she had about three feet of freeboard forward. The supp
pinging and scores stopped shortly after this. One hour
later when b. ok at peri. oops depth, the target had dis-
under sail in just about the position the target was last
seen. These boats continued about twenty men e.ch. Saw no
signs of .3. vessels. Sound was evidently in error about
the pings and light screws resorted previously. None of the
torpedoes which missed exploded at the end of t'air run.
The sky was overcast and the sea choppy during this
attack.

— page 236 —
1836 October 24, 1942.
1836: Inboard to southward. As by rain in this direction caused visibility, 1843 sighted LIGHTER was on an easting 201 degrees (T), dist. at 6000 ft. on ch. The track was first identified as a torpedo class destroyer with a 60 ft. masthead height. The former knot, 1837 started on 75. Initial speed estimated at 12 knots, 1837 started on 200 degrees (T). The track range of about 1000 yards, firing bow tubes, 1840 speed to 16 knots, started on 18 knot. Upgraded at 1842 data computer reported 240 RPM. Upgraded speed to 19 knots, 1844 started on 140 degrees. The course 140 degrees. Got check on set-up. Target was (cig. by fast, estimated course 040 degrees, range 1200 yards, bearing 329 degrees. Gave left full rudder, stab ahead full. Fired by white light ahead about ten seconds later.

| Time | Course | Speed | Range | Course | Speed | Range |
|------|||||||
| 1    | 13 Sec | 16     | 290    | 14     | 16     | 290    |
| 2    | 13 Sec | 16     | 290    | 14     | 16     | 290    |
| 3    | 14 Sec | 16     | 283    | 15     | 16     | 283    |

The points of aim were: #1 Bow, #2 Forward 3t-ok #3 II-1mrst.

From time of aircraft to time of firing was an interval eight minutes. The sea was choppy, and the were rain squalls all round giving a dark and hazy background for the target. The target was undoubtedly making better than 19 knots, prob-ably about 23. The torpedo tracks were un-favorable but the time it is felt that range and course were so accurate that the speed about 21 st the most, so that it is worth while shooting at such a desirable target.

By the time the fire was fired it was rather dark. The target evidently did not see the torpedo tracks as she made no change of course or speed.

This failure of this attack can be attributed to the reluctance of the commanding officer to accept such a high speed and his failure to give turn counts their proper weight. This was due in part to the apparent absence of a large bow wave and the tendency during practice to overestimate speed.

- 52 -

— page 238 —
SS196/A12
Serial: C-621

FIFTY-MINUTE P.TROL - U.S.S. SEAHAVEN (SS196)
8. Enemy Anti-submarine measures.
   - October 10, 1942. Supersonic search - no depth ch regs.
   - October 12, 1942. German made a complete circle to the right after being hit, then stopped dead in the water and re-aimed stopped until she sank. Her gun was manned but not fired.
   - October 24, 1942. AICIRI type destroyer was making a speed and firing. AID not change course, speed, or firing after torpedoes fired.
   - October 25, 1942. TOLOZURU class destroyer through sea pinning at 14 knots, evidently did not contact the sea even though he seemed to stick on us at short range. AID time. No more to attempt to attack.
   - November 3, 1942. Destroyer crossed southward on course line between passage east of Thwartway Island and Prince's channel, pinning.
   - November 4, 1942. North bound tanker used high speed, and unusual track in transit through Strait.
   - November 7, 1942. Two south bound transports used high speed (20 knot) one right zig of 60 degrees followed by a left zig of 90 degrees about seven minutes later. No other changes of course were observed.
   - November 10, 1942. No apparent anti-submarine measures used except that judging from her appearance she was probably making her maximum speed.
   - November 17, 1942. Japs opened fire with gun or about six inch caliber, two minutes after first torpedo exploded. Thereafter fired and dropped bombs intermittently. A total of over sixty explosive bombs had been fired. All were of small intensity and none were close.

- 54 -

— page 240 —
9. Major Defects Noted (Continued)

Nov. 13, 1942. No. 2 periscope cable began showing signs of excessive wear and broken strands.

Nov. 14, 1942. No. 4 main engine evaporator ceased functioning due probably to leaky thimbles.

— page 241 —
10. Remarks.

(1) General.
A total of thirty seven days were spent in the Soenda Strait Area. Of this time three days were spent off the southern entrance to Prince's Channel, two days to the westward of Prince's Island and thirty two days inside the Strait.

Of the thirty two days spent inside, four days were spent on the course line between Prince's Channel and the pass to the eastward of Thwartway Island in the vicinity of Lat. 6 - 20 - S., Long. 105 - 34 - E. Twenty five days were spent patrolling in the vicinity of Point "Dog" (Lat. 6 - 12. - S Long. 105 - 33 - E) and three days patrolling back and forth between these two points.

Three attacks, one result in a sinking were made near Point "Dog". One three ship convoy plus escort, one I lone high speed destroyer, and one unescorted tanker passed near this spot north bound. One unescorted freighter and two unescorted transports passed this spot southbound.

Two destroyers and one small concrete carrier passed through the area on the eastern side of the Strait southbound. Two freighters passed through this same area northbound.

One destroyer passed westward between Krakatau and Lang Islands and later the same day a destroyer believed to be the same one passed north a westward about the center of the Strait.

North and South bound traffic seemed to use both Prince's Channel and passed on either side of Thwartway Island.

It so happened that with the exceptions of three of these contacts the SMERF was on the opposite side of the Strait. In each instance, a mistake was made by shifting patrol positions but it was a logical mistake. Had the entire patrol period been spent at either point "Dog" or the other position used, a more successful patrol would no doubt have resulted. By shifting from one spot to the other and back again we got completely out of phase with the traffic routing.

From the way traffic routing was shifted as the SMERF's patrol position was shifted, it seems entirely possible that the Japs were aware of our general locality. During the first few nights they might possibly have seen us from Krakatau but also during this time traffic came right over us. They might have a radar installed on one of the islands and could have cut us in just before diving.

— page 242 —
10. Remarks (Continued).

end again just after surfacing thereby surmising pretty well the area we covered during the day. It would then have been a simple and quite effective matter to route traffic around us, leaving us unmolested in the meantime to keep us within known limits. Such a plan would work in nicely with their need for destroyers and anti-submarine craft elsewhere in areas no shore installations could cover.

The destination of the two south bound transports seen on November 7 is quite puzzling. They could, of course, be headed for Sumatra but it is seems very doubtful. They might have gone to Germany instead. They could be running doubtful. It seems highly probable that they were loaded in Maylaya, skirted the coast of Sumatra to Soende Street and from there skirted close to the South Coast of the N.E.I., to the Timor Area or even farther on. To them the submarine menace south of the barrier would be practically zero except for Soende, a wide passage, the approaches to Lombok and the passage through Ombai.

There was very little activity noted at Christmas Island either period the SAR/TN looked it over. There were no indications that the phosphates were being operated.

SEA about twelve men who appeared to be soldiers on the beach adjacent to Smith Point. There was one galvanized nut, similar to the ones used by our Army, in the same locality. Noted what appeared to be a military formation in front of a large building on Rocky Point taken to be the barracks. A Jap flag was displayed from a tall flagpole opposite this building.

The Jap tanker which was torpedoed was almost side the south dock. She was loaded and it is not known just what type of cargo she was discharging.

(2) Material Condition.

Being able to depend upon the engineering plant to produce full power for short intervals or even half power for extended periods would have been a great help during this patrol.

On the eleventh of October number three and four main bearings of number three main engine were replaced due to the flaking away of bearing metal. The new sets installed with just such trouble in mind as actually occurred. At this time it was felt this engine would be good for seventy percent power. On the same date wiped bearings were found

— page 243 —
10. Remarks (Continued)

In No. 4 Main engine and on October 12th discovered the same condition in No. 1 and No. 2 Main Engines. We were faced at this time with three engines having new bearings requiring running in at the same time. There was no good explanation for these bearings having wiped. It was felt that misalignment was probable especially as the same general type of trouble had been experienced with number three main engine while in port. We had attacked a convoy two days previously and had sunk a German cargo ship on the twelfth. The chances of the Japs making a determined anti-submarine sweep were very good and it was felt that the vessel was in no condition to remain in the restricted waters of Soenda Strait and undergo such a search. Her definite speed and other engine limitations would place her at a great disadvantage. With this in mind it was decided to shift patrol to the south of the Strait and patrol here until the new bearings were run in and more was known as to the full extent of trouble to be expected. This data along with our reports to date were reported by dispatch to CTF 51.1.

We stood back in to the Strait on the fourteenth. On this date it was discovered that the new set of bearings on number three main engine were in poor shape due to the bracing metal breaking its bond. The loose portions were dug out, the bearing reinstalled, and from then on this engine was run on rare occasions for short intervals.

From this time on, numbers two and four main engines were run up to sixty percent power. They might have operated satisfactorily at higher power but it was felt that this was no place to experiment in face of the indications of trouble mentioned previously.

Each night upon surfacing number one main engine was placed on propulsion at powers up to fifty percent until one of the charging engines could be shifted. It was found that the insulation resistance of the cables of No. 1 generator dropped to 75,000 ohm after two hours of operation at resistance reading of 2,000 ohm at 160 degrees F and as these cables heat up abnormally fast, it was felt that two hours of operation at this power constituted the safe limit.

(3) Health and habitability

- 59 -

— page 245 —
1. Days duration of patrol
: 2. Number days submerged
: 3. (a) Total miles steamed surface
: 4. (b) Total miles steamed submerged
: 5. Gallons fuel oil used
: 6. Gallons lubricating oil used
: 7. Gallons lubricating oil used
: 8. Gallons potable water used
: 9. Gallons potable water used
: 10. Factor limiting patrol duration

-1-

— page 246 —
6/16-3
Seriel # 00-49
S-E-C-R-Z-T
FIRST ORDERED to
C.O. SEARAVEN 1tr.
SS196/A12, Ser. C-521
of November 24, 1942.

From:
To:
Subject:
U.S.S. SEARAVEN - Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. Forwarded. The SEARAVEN's fifth war patrol covered a period of fifty-nine days of which thirty-seven were spent in the Sunda Strait area and five in the vicinity of Christmas Islands; a search was made for the wreck of the U.S.S. HOUSON, thought to be sunk in Sunda Strait, but no sign of her was found.

2. The SEARAVEN is being refitted for next patrol by RELIAS. Examination of the bearings of all main engines reveals no indication of misalignment of any engine. Continued difficulty with numbers 3 and 4 main bearings of number 3 main engine can be anticipated because of the substitution of white metal for satco in these bearings necessitated by the undersized journals. Spare bearings will be furnished for those locations but the commanding officer has been advised to limit the operation of number three engine to a minimum both as to power and time. All four main engines of SEARAVEN were extremely dirty, a condition which is attributed to extensive operation at reduced speeds. General material condition in SEARAVEN is considered to be such as to warrant Navy Yard overhaul in the near future.

3. More than the usual amount of sickness was reported on this patrol; there was not enough, however, to seriously affect the conduct of the patrol and officers and crew returned in good shape.

4. Of twelve contacts made in Sunda Strait area only three were developed into attacks. The SEARAVEN changed his patrol station several times in an attempt to intercept traffic more successfully but, in his own words, "Got completely out of phase with the traffic routing". One hundred percent hits were made on the stranded and moored targets at Christmas Island, but the percentage of hits obtained on the moving targets in the Sunda Strait area was extremely low, only one hit out of fourteen shots being made. Two premature explosions and one erratic (right running) torpedo were reported. The remaining misses may be attributed to control errors, principally poor speed estimates, and long range firing, (especially to the TDC, and poor performance of tube crew.

- 1 -

— page 247 —
5. It is believed that the SEARAVEN inflicted the following damage on the enemy:

| Damage | Type  | Tonnage | Location |
||-------|||
| 1      | 6853  | AK (Japanese) | Sunk |
| 1      | 7915  | AK (German) | Sunk |
| 1      | 14050 | AO (Japanese) | Sunk |
|        |       | (Believed to be the SHIRETOKO) | |

The SEARAVEN claimed credit for 3000 tons for the oiler sunk at the pier at Christmas Island which he said he thought was the SHIRETOKO; ONI 45-42 gives this vessel a displacement of 14050 tons.

A. R. McCANN.

— page 248 —
16-3
Serial 00159
C.O. SEARAVEN LT. SS196/ A12, Ser. C-521 of November 24, 1942.

From: The Commander TASK FORCE FIFTY ONE.
To: The Commander in Chief, U.S. FLEET.
Via: The Commander Southwest Pacific Force.

Subject: U.S.S. SEARAVEN - Fifth War patrol - Comment on.

1. Forwarded concurring in the comments of Commander Submarine Squadron SIX except as noted in paragraph 3 below.

2. The SEARAVEN has been recommended for Navy Yard Overhaul to commence upon the completion of her next patrol. During this refit period number one main generator power cables were renewed using 600,000 circular mil SIF cable in place of the original 650,000 circular mil cable. The original cable had been causing trouble due to extremely low insulation resistance at high temperatures. During the previous refit period the cables to numbers two, three and four main generators were renewed with the larger size.

3. A torpedo hit in a stranded ship such as the SEARAVEN effected on 5 October which is not seen to actually destroy the ship is not considered to justify credit for sinking of a ship of similar tonnage. For this reason the SEARAVEN is credited with inflicting the following damage on the enemy this patrol:

1. 1 - 7915 tons AK(GERMAN) Sunk
1. 1 - 14050 tons AK(JAPANESE) Sunk
1. 1 - 6853 tons AK(JAPANESE) Damaged

DISTRIBUTION
COINCH
VICE OPNAV
CINCLANFLT
CITCPACFLT
CONSOU.ESPACFOR
CONSOUPACFOR
CONSUDSPAC
CONSUDSLATT
CONTASKFOR 42
CONSUBORN-6
DIVCONS, RON-5
EACH S/M W.A.

(1) (NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SEA - BURN)

C.A. LOCKWOOD, JR.

— page 250 —
1942-10/416-3
Serial: C-523
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196)
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196). REPORT OF SIXTH YEAR RATIFICATION.
Period from December 18, 1942 to February 10, 1943.
Area - Operation Order COMTASKGROUP 51.1 No. 71-42.
Prologue:
Arrived Fremantle, Western Australia, from fifth war patrol on November 24th, 1942. Commenced refit on November 25, 1942, by Squadron SIX relief crew and tender personnel. Completed refit and ready for sea on December 15, 1942. Renowned main power cables for No. 3 main generator. Dry Docked and bottom re-painted. Wiped Dec. 13, 1942. Training period Dec. 15 - 18, 1942.
During this period had new bearings poured for undersize main journals on No. 3 main engine. The bond between cap and bearing metal on these new bearings was discovered parted a few hours before getting underway and the old, flaking bearings were reinstalled.
1. Narrative.
Zone minus eight time.
December 18, 1942.
1600 Departed Fremantle, W.A. Proceeded up bombing restricted lane. Rough weather.
December 21, 1942.
0930 Arrived fuel barge, Exmouth Gulf, W.A.
1400 Cleared from alongside fuel barge. Received 9800 gallons fuel.
1600 Conducted special exercises in northern portion of Gulf.
2145 Cleared Exmouth Gulf.
December 22, 1942.
1620 Received message giving Jap aircraft petrol areas as a sector of six hundred miles between bearings 220 and 230 from KOEPANG. Starting at same place a sector of 300 miles on 190 then 200 miles on C55, then 200 miles on 90, north for 75 miles and then west for 250 miles (1) (Enclosure A)
Film # 47021

— page 251 —
U.S.S. SEARAVEN - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
Continued.
Also they cover area within fifty miles of South East coast of
TIMOR.

December 23, 1942.

0800 Changed course to north and moved out to twenty miles
north of the 230 degree bearing line from KOPANG. Decided
to commence submerged daylight running torpedo morning at
0800, inside the known aircraft areas, figuring that a
plane on petrol would reach this spot at about that time.
As the TIMOR area has become quite active of late,
decided to continue running submerged during daylight until
in the Banda Sea in hopes of avoiding our own and enemy
aircraft and possibly picking up some worth while targets
closer in shore.

December 24, 1942.

0620 Signed plane which benked and headed directly for us.
Submerged. (See Sect. 5).

December 28, 1942.

0100 Passed between LETI and TIMOR.

0900 Radar commenced showing signs of another radar operating
in vicinity.

1022 Sighted plane. Submerged.

1540 Surfaced.

2345 Sighted GERAM ISLAND. Commenced operations in accordance
with Special Instructions.

December 29, 1942.

0500 Set clocks ahead one hour to zone minus 9 time.

December 31, 1942.

1430 Sighted smoke bearing 266 degrees, distance about fifteen
miles. Commenced approach. (See section 7).

1434 Heard loud explosion like a depth charge fairly close.
Nothing in sight. No planes seen.

(2) ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 252 —
1630 Fired three torpedoes. All hits.
: 1633 First depth charges.
: 1710 Last depth charge.
: 1950 Surfaced.
: 2225 Sighted Corvette to NE who changed course and headed for us from range of about 6000 yards. Submerged.
: 2359 Surfaced.

January 1, 1943.

0000 Decided to by-pass MANIPA and go to the westward of BURU ISLAND. Desired to send message to CTF 51.1 and figured a westerly course toward KENDARI might deceive Japs as to our intentions. Also visibility was poor with a number of rain squalls around, our navigational position was very doubtful, and the chances were that the Japs would have a bet. The PT boats covering the Strait to try to force us down.

January 2, 1943.

0100 Considered asking Contaakfor 51.1 what code to use in talking to Contaakfor 7. Decided to remain silent as we had been told that now command knows what publications we have on board. We do not have CSP 1403 C and 1404 C.

January 3, 1943.

0915 Passed through DJAILOLO PASS. Set course to pass twenty miles to westward of TOBI ISLAND.

January 4, 1943.

0100 Learned from Lt. Cutts another friendly sub was probably near by. Decided on submerged daylight running as he probably believes us to be o'lecr.

1840 Surfaced and found TOBI ISLAND bearing 085 degrees distant 5 miles putting us 15 miles SE of our E.P. Decided to give SONSOREL ISLAND a wide berth.

January 5, 1943.

2312 Sights today were practically worthless. Set course for peak on PALAU.

(3) ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 253 —
1. Subject: U.S.S. SEARAVEN - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
2. January 6, 1943.
3. 0700 Ster sights still very poor. Deadl'd to pass to southward and cttempt landfall from eastern approach as fringing reefs do not extend so far out on this side.
4. 1000 (Approximately) Entered area.
5. 2000 Evening stars were in complete disagreement with morning stars and indicated a westerly set where all others to date have indicated easterly. Stars still very poor. Slowed to four knots listening, hoping to pick up beach noises if we happen to be too far north and are approaching shoal water.
6. January 7, 1943.
7. 0545 Sighted ANGAR ISLAND bearing 025 degrees distant 10 miles. Submerged and changed course to westward. Encountered a 1.5 knot SE current all day. Set course to northward during night planning to move in on TOAGEL MUNGI PASS tomorrow during daylight.
8. January 8, 1943.
9. 0532 Sighted land bearing 120 degrees. Again sights were poor and land could not be seen through periscope. Moved in ten miles on course 121 degrees but as weather was overcast and the navigational position in doubt decided to approach no closer before getting a good position so as to identify land marks sighted.
10. 1902 Sighted loom of very brilliant light bearing 999 degrees (T). Took it to be lights for an airfield as it went on and off intermittently for the next hour.
11. January 9, 1943.
12. 0525 Sighted land bearing 100 degrees distant 18 miles. Obtained good star fix so moved on in toward TOAGEL MUNGI PASSAGE. The only landmark positively identifiable was the 641 ft. peak about in line with the pass. Using this peak and others marked on the chart it was possible to obtain several different fixes so moved in to a point figured to be seven miles off the pass and cruised back and forth on easterly westerly headings.
13. (4) ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 254 —
1710 Sighted smoke which developed into a convoy leaving the passage. Commenced approach. (Sea section 5 and 7).

: 1823 Fired one torpedo missed - Depth charged spasmodically for an hour.

: 2000 Surmised that as base course of convoy appeared to be in the neighborhood of 300 degrees their destination must be San Bernardino. Decided to give chase figuring that we could pass than during the night and make another attack after dawn.

: 2103 Surfaced and gave chase at 15 knot. Figured convoy speed to be 10 knot so could be 15 - 20 miles ahead by 0600. Noted the same brilliant light at the pass as was seen last night.

January 10, 1943.

: 0230 Passed out of patrol area at Lat. 8 - 15' - N., on course 300 degrees, speed 15 knot.

: 0509 Came to course 315 degrees.

: 0609 Came to course 000 degrees. Nothing yet in sight. Slowed to 12 knot. Decided to patrol back and forth across estimated course line about six miles each side.

: 0628 Sighted smoke bearing 122 degrees (T), Distant 15 miles. Submerged.

: 0720 Smoke developed into two ships on base course 300 degrees (T). Commenced approach and attack. (See sections 5 and 7).

: 0804 Fired four torpedoes.

: 0835 Two ships were bearing 050 degrees (T) on course 050 degrees (T), range 8000 yards, apparently unharmed. Changed course to 050 degrees (T).

: 0947 Sighted ship bearing 207 degrees (T) distant 8000 yards on course 120 degrees. Too far away to attack. Clocked him at 10 knot.

: 1000 Sighted column of smoke bearing 345 degrees, distant about 10 miles. Commenced approach. Remained on constant bearing with our course as 270 degrees.

(5) ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 255 —
1100 Snoke had faded out on some bearing. Must h.rve boen a ship on course of about 300 degrees.

1700 Having secon ships going in both directions at this position and having observed that some ships making 10-11 knot leaving PALAU at dark or arriving PALAU at dawn seon to pass through this vicinity, decided to spend tonight and tomorrow horo on the chance of catching one.

January 13, 1943.

0340 Sighted land bearing 075 degrees - 150 degrees, estimated distance 10 miles. After daylight obtained several series of cuts which would place us either sevon or seventeen miles off TOAGEL MUNGUI PASS. Could positively identify only the six hundred foot hill.

0850 Sighted several columns of smoke bearing 141 degrees (T), distant about 10 miles.

0907 Smoke was blowing to southward giving impression of ships on a northerly course. Ceno to course 056 degrees to close.

0918 Made out masts giving convoy c westerly course. Ceno to course 200, 0929 changed to course 220 degrees, 0959 convoy was dead ahead at 7000 yards range so came to course 270 degrees. Convoy course turned 290 degrees at this time. Decided to trail to try to ascertain base course and speed. (See 'Section 5 and 7 for full description of convoy).

1049 Sighted seaplane.

1130 Decided convoy was on base course 300 degrees (T), speed 9-10 knot. Thought over the situation for rest of day. Figured convoy would be 54 miles ahead at the time we could surface. With luck we could be ahead in position for attack at daylight. This would mean considerable time absent from our patrol area but by staying in the area we would have no assurance of other targets in a position for attack. Decided to take a chance and give chase, the success in finding the two ships on the tenth exerted considerable influence in making this decision.

1835 Surfaced gave chase on course 300 degrees, charging on one engine and running on three. Placed fourth engine on propulsion at end of battery charge.

January 14, 1943.

0210 Figured we should be within 10 miles of convoy. Changed course to 306 degrees to pass to starboard.

(6) Enclosure (A)

— page 256 —
0400 Figured we should be aboard. Visibility very poor due to rain squalls. Come back to course 300 degrees.

0612 Nothing in sight. Convoy position at this time estimated to be 15 miles bearing 161 degrees. Changed course to 251.

0707 When four niles to SW of estimated convoy track came to course 120 degrees. Slowed to 12 knots. Planned to run to the convoy 8 knot position circle then make a run for their 10 knot position circle on track between PALAU and SIARGAO PASSAGE.

0740 Sighted smoke bearing 160 degrees distant about 15 miles. Developed into 'several columns of smoke.

0745 Built up to 16 knots. Changed course to 290 degrees. Figured from navigational positions convoy was on base course 298 degrees, speed 9 knots.

0800 Came to course 266 degrees taking position 15 miles ahead.

0901 Changed course to 221 degrees.

0907 With convoy bearing 123 degrees (T), distant 15 miles submerged and commenced approach and attack. Did not continue on until dead ahead as I thought position was good enough and by staying on surface we might be spotted by a plane and spoil the whole affair. (See Sections 5 and 7 for further details).

1132 Fired four torpedoes.

1220 Back to periscope depth. The only thing in sight was a small AS vessel in the vicinity of where the convoy had been. He was cruising around on various courses in a small area. Couldn't tell whether he was looking for us or for survivors.

1800 Decided to nowd to a spot about twenty miles NE of the PALAU-SAN BERNARDINO track than, had for PALAU, hoping that traffic might be diverted in this direction after the previous two attacks. Considered trying to locate the convoy again but decided the chances of success were too slim.

January 15, 1943.

2000 Rainy and overcast. No fix since 1100 January 13.

(?) ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 257 —
0355 Sighted two M.RUS hull down bearing 030 degrees on course about 120 degrees (See Section 5).

2000 Poor fix indicated a north westerly set.

January 17, 1943.

0520 Obtained good fix. Started in on course 120 degrees on PALAU - SAN BERNARDINO line.

0720 Sighted transport bearing 290 degrees (T) distant about four miles. (See Section 5 and 7).

0740 Fired three torpedoes. Missed.

1000 Sighted seaplane bearing 330 degrees, distant 4 miles. Moved down toward DA.V.A.O - PALAU line.

2049 Received Task Group Seven 170758 addressed to SEARAVEN for action. Do not hold this code.

2045 Received passage giving paraphrase of the above message stating to by-pass GUAM if necessary to be a ve patrol area early.

January 18, 1943.

1840 Obtained star fix. Planned to close PALAU during day light.

January 19, 1943.

0737 Sighted 4.S. Vessel patrolling on course 060 degrees, speed about 8 knots, Position Lat. 8 - 001 - N., Long. 134 - 00 - E.

0900 Sighted smoke bearing 355 degrees. Changed course to 090 degrees to close supposed track.

0953 Contact had developed into two 4.S. vessels about 1 mile apart patrolling on course 140 degrees, Lat 8 - 01 - N., Long. 134 - 10 - E. Closed until about 5000 yards away then came to course 240 degrees to get well clear. They were too small for a torpedo attack, about 400 tons.

(8) ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 258 —
1249
Snoke from A.S. vessels still in sight. Cane to course 000 degrees to move up into area already patrolled by them.

: 2400
No stars today.

January 20, 1943.

0220
Sighted patrol vessel bearing 270 degrees (T) distant 4 miles, Lat. 7 - 47' - N., Long. 133 - 56' - E. Too small to torpedo so decided to locate alone. Retired on course 300 degrees after making one circle around same.

0333
Sighted stearn bearing 275 degrees, distant 4 miles, Lat. 7 - 45' - N., Long. 133 - 49' - E., coning out of rain squall. Estimated course to be about 120 degrees. Moved out on 090 degrees at high speed planning to move ahead, dive, and conduct periscope approach.

0415
Vessel disappeared in haze. Cane to course 180 degrees to close track.

0427
Changed course to 215 degrees.

0436
Decided vessel must have been on westerly course. Changed course to 270 degrees.

0505
Changed course to 330 degrees. Ran in to heavy rain squalls. Figured we were back in the general vicinity of patrol craft sighted earlier.

0530
Submerged.

0700
Sighted freighter bearing 036 degrees distant 7 miles on a S.E. Course. (See Section 5).

2400
No stars today.

January 21, 1943.

0530
Obtained star fix and headed in toward MLUNGI PASSAGE.

1155
Sighted 641 ft. peak bearing 124 degrees distant about 20 miles.

1249
Sighted smoke bearing 130 degrees, distant 15 miles. Commenced approach.

ENCLOSURE (A)
(9)

— page 259 —
1406 - Recognized vessel as hospital ship. Discontinued approach.

January 22, 1943.

Nothing sighted. Decys and nights have become very clear.

January 23, 1943.

0612 Sighted 641 ft. peak bearing 120 degrees distant about 20 miles.

0628 Sighted several columns of smoke bearing 294 degrees well over the horizon. Commenced approach on what developed into a six ship convoy. (See sections 5 and 7).

0750 Fired four torpedoes. Bombed and depth charged. One torpedo remaining. Retired to westward to send radio message.

2130 Commenced attempting to send radio message. (See section 11).

January 24, 1943.

0150 Lat. 8 - 25° - N., Long. 133 - 25° - E. Radio DARWIN receipted for SEARAVEN-231230 to Consubpaca.

January 25, 1943.

2241 Received Contaskgroup Seven Article Serial to SEARAVEN giving recognition signals until February and directing us to come home direct omitting GUAM and WAKE passing through Lat. 12 - N., Long 147 - E. It appears that we have somehow missed the first two messages but have read a paraphrase of one of them so can not going to open up on radio to request those.

January 26, 1943.

0455 Sighted YAP bearing 044 degrees, distant 8 miles. Passed three miles south of Island. Saw no signs of activity or shipping.

1836 - Surfaced eight miles south east of YAP.

January 27, 1943.

0535 Sighted plane bearing 180 degrees, distant 5 miles.

(10) ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 260 —
1920
Subject: U.S.S. SEARAVEN - Report of Sixth War Patrol.

1920 Received Contaskgroup Seven Serial Einstein concerning possible meeting of another vessel.

2100 Received Contaskgroup Seven Serial Vest concerning call sign cipher. This is the sixth message to SEARAVEN and we have received only two in a cipher we hold and one in another cipher we do not hold. Have received four messages total for action of SEARAVEN from CTF 511 and am wondering if these were considered as serials by CONSUBSPAC.

January 28, 1943.

0300 Set clocks ahead one hour to zone minus ten time.

February 1, 1943.

0300 Set clocks ahead one hour to zone minus eleven time.

2040 Received Contaskgroup Seven message concerning recognition of signal and telling us to have Navy Yard job orders ready upon arrival.

February 4, 1943.

0248 Received message from Consubs stating that we might be overtaken by a friendly sub.

1000 Set clocks ahead one hour to zone minus twelve time.

February 5, 1943.

2400 Set clocks back twenty-four hours to zone plus twelve time.

January 6, 1943.

2350 Sent message to Contaskforce Seven about position, course, and speed.

February 7, 1943.

0600 Set clocks ahead one hour to zone plus eleven time.

February 10, 1943.

0527 Sighted and identified POLLACK.
0540 Sighted Escort PC 584.
0927 Moored at Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

(11) ENCLOSURE (A)