U.S.S. S-47 (SS-158) — war patrol report SS-158_S-47.pdf

— page 6 —
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INDEX 6& SCL STES EUQ13

Commanding Officer.

From:

From

Quadron Commander Sub Marine Squadron FIVE.

Reference:

Subject:

The Army

REFERENCES: mater 44. S-47 de

Art. 1941 REPORT

Flag

Number of Report.

References (cN

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— page 7 —
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— page 8 —
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— page 9 —
5 NINETY-NINE P
    : 5
    : U.S.S. S-47 DURING PATROL OF
U.S.S. S-47
AUTOMOBILES
UNITED STATES
2194
Guns.--: 1908-1931
(634)

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---

**CONFIDENTIAL** U.S.S. S-47

WAR DIARY OF COMMANDING OFFICER OF U.S.S. S-47 DURING PATROL OF
AUGUST 24 -
28, 1941
---
Monday, August 25, 1941.

2025 Commenced battery charge on starboard engine.

2040 Visibility less than 1 mile. Commenced sounding frog signal.

2050 Heard fog signal and sighted lights of ship simultaneously, 1 point on starboard bow, distant about 1 mile. Stopped. Secured battery charge and got ready on motors. Ship on opposite course.

2055 Ship sighted at 2050 passed well clear to starboard, on SW course. Went ahead 1/3 S.S. on port engine and resumed battery charge on starboard engine.

2100 Visibility increased to about 3 miles. Secured fog signal.

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— page 11 —
3-47
AUGUST 24-28, 1941U.S.S.A

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— page 12 —
1306 Continued submerged patrol on East-West line in center of

area.

1315 Went to 90 feet.

1747 Picked up screws of ship, bearing 040OT.

1801 Screws became faint to SW.

1806 Periscope depth. Screws were from a small motor boat. Bear-

ing 225°T, distant about 2 miles. Eighted tug with 2 barges

in tow bearing 327°T, distant about 7 miles, on southwesterly

course.

1815 Surfaocd on course 0900T.

1827 Sighted masts of ship, hull down on horizon, bearing 260°T.

1900 Ship sighted at 1827 appeared to be flashing a light. Made

quick dive. Time of dive 64 seconds. Bearing of ship now

225°T. Changed course to close this ship. Range about

16000 yards.

1910 Ship appears to be U.S.S. ANTAEUS. Commenced approach to fire

a large parallax shot. No baker flying.

1918 Ship not U.S.S. ANTAEUS. Broke off approach. Range 3000

yards.

1920 Ship showing Eastern Steamship Line markings on stack.

Silhouette very similar to U.S.S. ANTAEUS. Ship on course

&oOT.

1940 Surfaced. Ship very faint to northeast. Continued patrol

on East-West line in center of area.

2010 Commenced battery charge on starboard engine.

2040 Sighted lights of ship bearing 0800T, distant about 7 miles

passing well clear to SW.

— page 13 —
3-47

1941 . AUGUST 24 , 1941. Wednesday , August 27 , 1941

2101 S ighted liquids of chin

passing well clear to south.

2205

— page 14 —
0801 ^0 s.fQ F 0 c ( hm oUHO 0 rf ~hu « o:

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Ny WW1, AUGUSR 24-2& 1947.

Thursday, August 29, 1941. .'ii-hi '■! |■

0823 Sighted patrol plane to SW. Made quick dive. Time of dive
59 seconds.

0846 Plane out of sight to north. SurfaJ:cd and ! spectrometryi
on East-West line in center of area.

0850 Sighted shell bursts of gun firing (A.A.) to south. No
ships in sight.

0905 Ahead standard speed on both engine. 6 distilz1 mddd-water.

09,46 Sighted plate to SW. Made quick 6ive. TIime to dive 55

seconds.

1000 Plane out of sight to N. M .

1018 Survaced, .resumed patent in centcr ot area on East-West

line.

1050 Standard speed on both engines.

1055 Sightcd tops of large ship to S.& Made quick 6ive. TI.ie

of dive 03 seconds. On various courses closing ship.

1130 Ship idcnrti1ed as battleship on coumcht. ord, range 100oo
yards.

1155 Battleship identified QS. 51. M V TlYORK. No bsrker flying.
Bang off approach. I,anL.? 1000 yards. weathered smueed

patrol on 3ast-West line.

1300 Sunaced. Tub 523.s [NEW YORK]

1319 SIlan: launched from U.s.s. NEW yd.K. Made quick dive. Time

of divu 55 seconds.

119O No plane^ in sight. Surfaaaed. Resumed patrol.

1540 Sphted. nprol plane to norrh. iii.de quick diver. Time of
di.v- 52 seconds.

— page 15 —
Mission

: The U.S. 3-47 During Patrol of August 24-28, 1941. W
:
Surficed and resumed patrol on East-West line in center of area.

Ahead standard speed on both engines to distill water.

Changed course to southern part of area.

Left patrol area, proceeding to Provincetown, Mass. Visibility excellent.

— page 18 —
8.5-4

CONFIDENTIAL

CONTENTS AND REGARDING OFFICE U.S.S. S-47

by the steward. The times obtained were not as good as desired.

However, future dives should reduce the tides by 20 to 25 seconds
from the lessons learned and some modifications in the diving
procedure.

LOOKOUTS

[Table]

Lookouts were stationed in accordance with the latest directives,
the same 9-man did not stand all night lookout watches. For
purposes of training they were shifted to some extent. However,
the night lookouts stood no watches or duties during the day pre-
ceding their night look out watches.

BALANCING

In area 5 it was found that there was a "heavy layer" around
90 feet. Once the desired trim was obtained the depth could be
maintained by use of the regulator tank alone (580 lbs. capacity).
All officers had turns at "balancing" and they became quite
proficient after a short time. By changing 2 to 300 lbs. in the
regulator tank, it was found that the vessel could be easily kept
between the depth of 85 to 105 feet.

PRESSUR IN THE BOAT

As a result of balancing the pressure in the boat during
the dives, built up less than normally, resulting in less operations
of the C&R air compressors. This was due primarily to the less
frequent operation of the pneumatic control valves in the main
motor panels. At the commencement of the patrol No. 1 and 2 ship
air banks were designated and used to discharge the air during the
periods submerged when the C&R air compressors were in use.

DISTILLED WATER

Because of low injections temperature and slow engine speeds,
unsufficient water was distilled to keep vessel self-sustaining.
After the second day, the surface patrol was made at two engine
speed (2/3 or standard) in order to distill more water. With the
type of evaporators installed on this vessel, it will be difficult
under war conditions, for this vessel to be self-sustaining in
fresh water.

ENCICL SI ur5'
3 -
     -

-3-

— page 19 —
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### Water expenditure per man was higher than desired. On future patrols it will be reduced considerably.

 BATT nry l\l>L'E[:~]

With the battery temperatures encountered it is believed that the ship's present capacity (859 gals.) of battery water would be sufficient for 30 days operations, assuming the patrol was commenced with the height of electrolyte at normal. leve (0).

PER ISCOFS

After prolonged deep submergence the periscope en_ several

ocu~asions fogged up, about 30 seconds after breakfast surface.
It was found that by dipping it under several Tigers it soon clear-
ed up.

VERTICAL by

No results were obt ined on the vertical antenna (attached
to No. 2 periscope). On the firs t day, the periscope was
inadvertently rotated while the operator was try,jg to clea.r the
noon position report, resulting in the lead-in being twisted

off an recognized . Upon. Prior to _,.,this occ~r~nce the operator was (the. _.s···\Jpt
able to intercept messages between csd-Si. and the 5-21. (DepthaQ)
43 feet .). . 1<

4LIe<

The new type coffee was not at all popular with thh e crew.

After several days ti....,1 thla pondant'saPol n it glia l ("regqration" coffee.

b~~ 1'e s.r:sr- ...nlJ .~1Us ~l~ I~~n~~~

BOW E:424 NALSf

For the purposes of training the bow planes were kept rigged

in until ti' Getaxlsul __.,._ t1 soud6d and lhe bed排查.... U

_\I/_ ~~.

below and ....id .... unt. no difficultiy or delay in .

experienced using ths ~~·

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u ."

— page 20 —
6TH APRIL 1944
AUG MAR 24 AUG 25 AUG 26 AUG 27 AUG 28
JRS=TUB BY ANNAY "C" 10 JESHS OUT

| Amfatum \( \text{t/s} \) Added to MEAL TABLE    |
<table>(a) Potable water expended \( \text{gal} \).246210*501268188(b) Potable water expended \( \text{t} \) only  (gal.)5.234.4710.4177541.0184.2(c) Daily expenditure of 15 gallons (1)15911?1561481037192(d) Daily cost of ration. (d)-3535?4754.81250640(e) Potable water distilled 6ml gallons /. gallon).7517015263660160ff) | Fuel used \( \text{gal} \).200470550430630\( \text{KWH distorted miscounted bottles) \text{packages)}319.4766.8434.71712.5657.5\ (k) Eth al \textbf{wear out time}\( 296.3 \)325423.8300.0\( \text{Minmeal} \) (milli365.1\( \text{Od the defrectate @ was charged.} \)\ (250.0) \)  Complet \textbf{potent of ments}\( \( \( 1750 \) \)%1 \( 1450 \) \ % 250 250\\( 250) \ (50.0) \ \textbf{ m.Diagnosis, \}  . \ \textbf{\times (10  minimum chining per month \void our value105 0) 175 -  or  175 choe. " 100\\) Thermed. (World experience &. Src) 3 \224 20\3 \torque. \)320-120348.7220.7(1) Warm harm. kg  \( (Maximum day ch0 if) rid ad): \)(400583563543544\( powded up per pair in s \textbf{hurs} \ guests } \((100.1\)\ \) \( 1. \ \text{ hrs 5 0. .\) (hours). \(((pos years  \) ):-( on (missing. with . Nickel X \) (60.7  the max. 85.3 \(\times 10. \times adultated.\%)  \( ]0 = \frac{ % ) \begin{table}750 10. do ) 21. \text{ ) *** 500)                    \times24.  \\ 20.3\  cm 218.5. 63. \\ 0 (\(\text{Yard 15. \ \textbf{coal co) the1. \end{\eqcellvert 7} \>&75 52 .6)  \\  \[ \textbf{866.27   \ alle.8.03 ).? ) 57-  \((\text{miles} ) 6p ( wire ) 1240$ \\ \end{matrix}  \({\text \ of     book 6 \ \textbf{5) \ 0 \) (. ) and 5 7.  . \)

\(81050  0 \\( \cdot Y) 410) &  \\ 414 (1000) \\ @ $60the \) \action{120 of -509 107}&  \\ $\textbf{26. 0 \\ \& X0 \times (20) 406 \quad \text{ \- 634.144, } .  18.44. 51400) \( \ \text{y}{mathrm{can}   \ (3.5.20.  \8 793      hindsight) \(). (483 0 (.  &   74&  E.)Y \begin{stationary* * \\ 212)\div \60 =25 \quad ( times }  .  1. 47 31303 216.5 & 3 .  \begin{columns}3.  \\  .1. 1 \textbf{ \end{dy \(-\) } ) \space \end is <lblbla.2 \textbf —\uniform}\]

— page 21 —
CHAPTER 5

)Average daily expenditure of fuel oil - 456
(g) Average daily expenditure of lub. oil - 76
(h) Average kWh discharged during all day
(i) a ng
(e) Average kWh auxI;lary load during all day dlves
(j) Average kWh charged during .ays:y- l,llJ.l.

— page 22 —
19A
File: 006_06 - Natural Resources, Building and Grounds
Title: Department Sanitaire Building, Department of Approach

Date: 17, 1942

December 31, 1941 To: Prepared by Deputy Supervisors

Subject: The Commanding Officer, The Commander Submarine Division Fifty Three.

1. In accordance with Commander Submarinedefined. 5-41 (40005) of Fm.5Y 1941, air Station A-23 (President Line), with permission. 1 Drafted Parl Kishpin. On December 31, 1941. Executed Armil-

Date. The Department of Science Assignment就到了. U.S,G.S. To Naval Submarine Division Pitty Strip.

Decide Vice consisted to Deputy of Navy the Page source at 6:00 PM &.

— page 24 —
0004
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O-C-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. 8yo- Jakarta S-47
: : 0dobe
伞2 December j

Jame2 0004 Object previously sighted changing bearing to West-

ward, crossing ahead from starboard to port.
Siltu otta
passed to be a vessel with a long
flat superstructure. Went "to 10 Nieht General countries.
# to a & wid.
made ready all lime. Shifted cabuu caseu tes

and wear ate , to 5 a. in o rems.

night spot from knocked a- horizons,
sight ed latent , united , and seemed.
S
0007 Ship bearing 3002 F Hre; linewighted and 16071 W.
0Ay been s,
0aw east received高技术
shoulder ttaster throat
have when 600
GBow ( S8) torment.
shifted 6 set east Shett

6541-S 61. sh

— page 30 —
58158/A16-3 U.S.S. S-47

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— page 91 —
SECRET
June 17, 1942 (Cont'd)
0850 Changed course to 000°T.
1015 Changed course to 081°T.
1110 Changed course to 070°T.
1200 Lat. 4°-05' S; Long. 152°-00' E. Navigation miles to
date - 1843. Miles since 1200, June 16, 1942 - 114.
Speed made good since 1200 June 16, 1942 - 4.75 knots.
1312 Changed course to 090°T.
1617 Sound reported screws on 010°T. No ships in sight.
1700 Changed course to 330°T. Position: 9 miles, bearing
030°T from Cape Tawui (Stephens).
1748 Sunset. During day sky was generally overcast and
occasional rain squalls.
1836 Surfaced and resumed surface patrol. Went ahead two-
thirds standard speed on starboard engine and commenced
battery charge on port.
1846 Sighted white light on Watom Island. Visible for about
10 minutes.
2000 Lat. 3°-48' S; Long. 152°-08' E. Changed course to 270°т.
2045 Slowed to one-third standard speed on starboard engine.
2330 Changed course to 305°т. Completed battery charge.

June 18, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 305°T. Making one-
third standard speed on starboard engine.
0100 Changed course to 125°T.
0109 Received CSS5's serial No. 60 (171412 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of S-46. Decoded at 0115.
0458 Dove and resumed submerged patrol. Lat. 3°-54' S;
Long. 151°-51' E. Soon after diving sound reported
screws and pinging on various bearings. After daylight
no ships were in sight, although sound continued to
report screws and pinging. Finally died out about 0600.
0557 Sunrise.
0613 Changed course to 120°T.
0800 Lat. 3°-59' S; Long. 152°-02' E.
1143 Sound reported screws bearing 110°T. Nothing in sight
on this bearing except a flock of birds feeding. It
is believed that most of the previous sound contacts
have been fish "pings".
1150 Changed course to 135°т.
1200 Lat. 4°-02' S; Long. 152°-10' E. Navigation miles to
date 1956. Miles since 1200, June 17, 1942 - 113. Speed
made good since 1200, June 17, 1942 - 4.7 knots.
1430 Changed course to 330°T.
1605 Sighted two mast schooner in vicinity of Duke of York
Islands on southwesterly course. Same type as one sighted
June 16th, about 75 feet in length.
1652 Changed course to 305°.
1748 Sunset. During afternoon sound reported screws on sev-
eral occasions, but each time all that was sighted on the
bearings were flocks of birds feeding.
1846 Surfaced and resumed surface patrol. Went ahead two-
thirds standard speed on starboard engine and commenced
-10-

— page 92 —
SECRET
June 18, 1942 (Cont'd)
battery charge on port. Position: 9 miles bearing
355°T from Cape Tawui(Stephens).
1850 Changed course to 330°T. Sighted several lights on
Watom Island.
1900 Sighted bright white light in vicinity of Talili Bay.
Flashed several times and then went out.
2000 Lat. 30-50' S; Long. 1520-08' E. Changed course to
285°T to head toward moon.
2030 Sighted 2 flashing lights on Watom Island. Visible for
a few minutes then went out.
2040 Slowed to one-third standard speed on starboard engine.
2128 Moonset. Changed course to 270°T.

June 19, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 270°T. Making one-
third standard speed on starboard engine and charging
battery on port.
0015 Completed battery charge.
0030 Changed course to 305°T.
0100 Changed course to 125°T.
0235 Stopped starboard engine because of wiped spring bearing.
Went ahead one-third standard speed on port enging.
0300 Changed course to 100°T. Decided to start back toward
St. Georges Channel. Do not want to get caught north of
St. Georges Channel with one shaft out of commission.
The wiped bearing was the same one which had given
trouble before. Had run abnormally warm since departure
from Brisbane. Went ahead two-thirds standard speed on
port engine.
0330 Changed course to 090°T.
0456 Dove and resumed submerged patrol. Standing down toward
northern entrance to St. Georges Channel. Lat. 30-44'S;
Long. 151°-55' E.
0510 Changed course to 100°T.
0556 Sunrise.
0615 Changed course to 120°T.
0800 Lat. 3°-46' S; Long. 152°-03' E.
1200 Lat. 30-53' S; Long. 152°-14' -30" E. Navigation miles
to date - 2062. Miles since 1200, June 18, 1942 - 106.
Speed made good since 1200, June 18, 1942 - 4.4 knots.
Spring bearing repaired and tested out. Starboard
shaft in commission. Decided to continue on through
St. Georges Channel.
1700 Changed course to 146°T.
1748 Sunset.
1805 Changed course to 140°T.
1850 Surfaced and went ahead standard on both engines. Stand-
ing on down through St. Georges Channel. Lat. 4°-06' S;
Long. 152°-33' E. Changed course to 155°T.
1900 Changed course to 150°T.
1920 Changed course to 160°T.
1935 Changed course to 170°T.
-11-

— page 93 —
SECRET
June 19, 1942(Cont'd)
2000 Lat. 4°-14' S; Long. 152°-37' E. Slowed to two-thirds
standard speed on starboard engine and commenced battery
charge on port. Changed course to 180°T.
2045 Received CSS5's serial No. 61(190641 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of enemy tanker at Truk. Decoded at 2110.
2100 Changed course to 190°T.
2200 Changed course to 180°T. During passage through channel
sighted several fires and lights near the shore line on
Duke of York Islands, New Ireland and in vicinity of
Cape Gazelle (New Britain). Lights were orange in color
and were similar to fishing torches.
2214 Moonset.

June 20, 1942
Underway as before. Base course 180°T. Making two-
thirds standard speed on starboard engine and charging
battery on port.
0015 Changed course to 160°T.
0030 Slowed to one-third standard speed on starboard engine.
0200 Changed course to 210°T. Decided to reconnoiter Wide
Bay during daylight of 20th June and return to vicinity
of Cape St. Georges on 21st June.
0300 Ahead two-thirds standard speed on starboard engine.
0345 Visibility less than 1/2 mile to south. Rain squalls,
very dark horizon clouds and haze. Changed course to
000°T.
0415 Visibility improving. Went ahead standard speed on both
engines. Changed course to 240°T for Wide Bay.
0500 Dove and resumeá submerged patrol. Changed course to
250°T. Standing down toward Wide Bay. Lat. 4°-58' S;
Long. 152°-28'-30" E.
0800 Lat. 4°-59' S; Long. 152°-21' E.
0320 Changed course to 240°T.
1200 Lat. 5°-02' S; Long. 152°-12' E. Navigation miles to
date - 2163. Miles since 1200, June 19, 1942 - 101.
Speed made good since 1200, June 19, 1942 - 4.2 knots.
No shipping observed in Jammer Bay.
1415 Changed course to 305°T.
1500 Changed course to 270°T.
1600 Changed course to 135°T. No shipping observed in Henry
Reid Bay.
1730 Changed course to 090°T.
1747 Sunset. No shipping sighted in Wide Bay.
1810 Changed course to 135°T.
1900 Surfaced and resumed surface patrol. Lat. 5°-06' S;
Long. 152°-10' E. Went ahead standard speed on both
engines. Sighted flashing white light on land in vicinity
of Cape Cormoran. Flashed several times and then went off.
1930 Commenced watering batteries.
1945 Changed course to 120°T.
2000 Lat. 5°-14' S; Long. 152°-15' Ε. Stopped engines and
went ahead normal parallel on both motors to clean out
lubricating oil pump and to renew lubricating oil. Oil
very dirty.
-12-

— page 94 —
SECRET
June 20, 1942(Cont'd)
2130 Completed renewal of lubricating oil and went ahead two-
thirds standard speed on starboard engine. Changed course
to 045°T.
2200 Completed watering batteries and commenced battery charge
on port engine.
2257 Moonset.
2330 Slowed to one-thirds standard speed on starboard engine.
2400 Changed course to 000°T.

June 21, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 000°T. Making one-
third standard speed on starboard engine and charging
battery on port engine.
0100 Changed course to 090°T. Visibility very poor. Frequent
rain squalls and surface haze.
0130 Changed course to 340°T.
0300 Changed course to 090°T.
0330 Secured battery charge. Changed course to 150°T. Vis-
ibility very poor to north. Less than 1/2 mile. Rain-
ing and surface and horizon haze.
0400 Changed course to 090°T. Visibility improving.
0430 Changed course to 000°T.
0455 Dove and resumed submerged patrol. Standing up to north
in St. Georges Channel. Changed course to 325°T.
Lat. 4°-39' S; Long. 152°-38' E.
0556 Sunrise.
0650 Changed course to 135°T.
0800 Lat. 4°-37' S; Long. 152°-38' E.
1200 Lat. 4°-45'-30" S; Long. 152°-46' E. Navigation miles to
date - 2275. Miles since 1200, June 20, 1942 - 112.
Speed made good since 1200, June 20, 1942 - 4.67 knots.
1345 Changed course to 325°T.
1637 Sighted small buoy about 1 foot in diameter about 20
yards abeam to starboard. Painted bright yellow. Had
handle on top. Position of buoy. Lat. 4°-45' S; Long.
152°-44' E. No other buoys in sight. Unable to determine
whether buoy anchored or not. In about 400 fathoms of
water.
1639 Heard hammer like noise on deck. Sounded as if small
weight was dropped on deck.
1648 Changed course to 230°T.
1650 Heard another noise similar to one heard at 1639. Nothing
but land in sight.
1745 Sunset. Changed course to 215°T.
1830 Sound reported screws on 265°T. Had similar character-
istics of picket boat screws heard on previous war patrol.
High speed screws.
1840 Picket boattdrawing aft to northward. Pinging and it
occassionally stopped. Maneuvered to keep picket boat on
quarter.
1910 Screws faded out to north. Steadied on course 210°T.
1918 Surfaced and resumed surface patrol. Went ahead two-
thirds standard speed on starboard engine and commenced
-13-

— page 95 —
SECRET
June 21, 1942(Cont'd)
battery charge on port. Lat. 4°-50' S; Long. 152-39' E.
2000 ( DR ) Lat. 4°-54' S; Long. 152°-36' E.
2044 Received CSS5's serial No. 62(210717 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of own forces. Decoded at 2200.
2058 Received CSS5's serial No. 63(210806 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of enemy forces. Decoded at 2140.
2130 Slowed to one-third standard speed on starboard engine.
2200 Frequent rain squalls. Visibility poor.
2330 Changed course to 135°to patrol the line between Wide Bay
and Shortland Island.
2342 Moonset.

June 22, 1942
Underway as before. Base course 135°T. Making one-third
standard speed on starboard engine, charging battery on
port.
0300 Completed battery charge.
0354 Starboard engine stopped. Secured engine to investigate.
0355 Went ahead one-third standard speed on port engine.
0400 Changed course to 305°T.
0430 Changed course to 150°T to head for southeast corner of
area (ROGER). Trouble with starboard is in engine air
compressor - either cracked head or cylinder. Also No.
7 main engine cylinder (port engine) has developed a
knock. Disassemblying starboard main engine air com-
pressor to determine trouble.
0500 Dove and resumed submerged patrol. (DR) Lat. 5°-34' S;
152°-41' E.
0555 Sunrise.
0600 Changed course to 075°T. Third (3rd) stage starboard
main engine air compressor head and No. 7 Port main engine
cylinder head both had cracked. Have spares on board.
Proceeding with renewals.
0630 Changed course to 045°T.
0730 Changed course to 305°T.
0800 (DR) Lat. 5°-33' S; Long. 152°-33' E.
0940 Changed course to 135°T.
1200 (DR) Lat. 5°-37' S; Long. 152°-34' E. Navigation miles
to date - 2379. Miles since 1200, June 21, 1942 - 104.
Speed made good since 1200, June 21, 1942 - 4.33 knots.
1742 Sunset. Repairs to port engine completed (renewed cylin-
der head),
1856 Surfaced and resumed surface patrol. Went ahead two-
thirds standard speed on port engine. Repairs to starboard
main engine air compressor not completed. Decided to
complete repairs while submerged on June 23rd. Heavy
swells and ship rolling. Enginer's force very tired
after working all day while submerged. (DR) Lat. 5°-50'S;
Long. 153°-00' E.
1930 Departed area to return to base.
1950 Went ahead two-thirds standard speed on starboard motor
(7 knots) to charge air banks. Commenced battery charge
on port engine.
2000 Lat. 6°-05' S; Long. 152°-36' E. Changed Course to 145°T.
-14-

— page 96 —
SECRET
June 22, 1942(Cont'd)
2130 Completed air charge and slowed to 3 knots on starboard
motor.
2400 Slowed to 2 knots on starboard motor. Changed course to
135°т.

June 23, 1942
Underway as before. Base course 135°T. Making 2 knots
on Starboard motor and charging battery on port engine.
0027 Moonset.
0112 Received CSS5's serial No. 64(221400 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of enemy to S-44. Decoded at 0130.
0245 Stopped, lying to charging battery on port engine.
0430 Secured battery charge and went ahead two-thirds stand-
ard speed on port engine.
0500 Dove and resumed submerged patrol. Lat. 6°-20' S; Long.
152°-52' E.
0557 Sunrise.
0800 Lat. 6°-32' S; Long. 152°-57' Ε.
1200 Lat. 6°-42' S; Long. 153-02' E. Navigation miles to date
- 2454. Miles since 1200, June 22, 1942 - 75. Course and
speed made good since 1200, June 22, 1942 - 148°T; 3.1 knots.
1741 Sunset.
1830 Surfaced and resumed surface patrol. Commenced battery
charge on port engine and went ahead two-thirds standard
speed on starboard. Starboard main engine air compressor
is out of commission, because of knock. Unable to deter-
mine trouble without removing compressor block. Opera-
ting starboard engine by cross-connecting air from port
main engine air compressor. Lat. 6°-56' S; Long. 153°-08'Ε.
2000 Lat. 7°-02' S; Long. 153°-15' E.

June 24, 1942
Underway as before. Making two-thirds standard speed
on starboard engine and charging battery on port. Base
course 135°T.
0111 Received CSS5's serial No. 65(231004 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of enemy. Decoded at 0140.
0014 Moonset.
0400 Secured battery charge and went ahead two-thirds standard
speed on both engines.
0500 Dove and resumed submerged patrol. Lat. 7°-45' S; Long.
154°-07' Ε.
0555 Sunrise.
0800 Lat. 7°-53' S; Long. 154°-15' E. Changed course to 145°T.
1200 Lat. 8°-06' S; Long. 154°-35' E. Navigation miles to
date 2581. Miles since 1200 June 23, 1942 - 127. Course
and speed made good since 1200, June 23, 1942 - 133°T;
5.2 knots.
1734 Sunset.
1830 Surfaced and went ahead two-thirds standard speed on star-
board engine and commenced battery charge on port.
Lat. 8°-26'-30" S; Long. 155°-04' Ε.
2000 Lat. 8°-35' S; Long. 155°-10' E. Changed course to 155°T.
2303 Received CSS5's ser. No. 66(232303 of June 1942) for S-37.
Decoded at 2320.
-15-

— page 97 —
SECRET
June 25, 1942
Underway as before. Enroute to Base. Base course 155°T.
Making two-thirds standard speed on starboard engine and
charging battery on port.
0145 Completed battery charge and went ahead two-thirds stand-
ard speed on both engines.
0206 Moonset.
0500 Dove and resumed submerged patrol enroute to base.
Lat. 9°-45' S; Long. 155°-34' E.
0552 Sunrise.
0800 Lat. 9°-54' S; Long. 155°-38' E. Changed course to 150°T.
1200 Lat. 10°-05's; Long. 155°-45' E. Navigation miles to date
2722. Miles since 1200, June 24, 1942 - 141. Course
and speed made good since 1200, June 24, 1942 - 150°T;
5.67 knots.
1724 Sunset.
1830 Surfaced and went ahead two-thirds standard speed on
starboard engine and commenced battery charge on port
engine. Lat. 10°-20' S; Long. 155°-55' E. Changed course
to 145°T
2000 Lat. 10°-34' S; Long. 156°-04' E.
2320 Received CSS5's serial No. 67 (241515 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of enemy and directing this vessel to new
patrol station. completed decoding at 0020 - June 24, 1942.
2333 Received CSS5's serial No. 68 (241609 of June 1942) for
S-38. Decoded at 0048, June 26, 1942.
2400 Changed course to 215°T to comply with CSS5's serial No.
67.

June 26, 1942.
Underway as before. Base Course 215°T. Making two -
thirds standard speed on starboard engine, charging battery
on port.
0045 Completed battery charge and went ahead two-thirds stand-
ard speed on both engines.
0145 Received CSS5's serial No. 69(250701 of June 1942) giv-
ing information to own submarines and of Jap hospital
ships. Decoded at 0300.
0150 Received CSS5's serial No. 70 (250811 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of recognition signals. Decoded at 0230.
0305 Moonset.
0500 Dove and continued submerged patrol. Lat. 11°-30' S;
Long. 155°-54' E.
0553 Sunrise.
0800 Lat. 11°-36' S; Long. 155°-48' E.
1200 Lat. 11°-46' S; Long. 155°-38' E. Navigation miles to
date 2846. Miles since 1200, June 25, 1942 - 124. Course
and speed made good since 1200, June 25, 1942 - 183°T;
4.15 knots.
1722 Sunset.
1815 Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on port engine and
went ahead two-thirds standard speed on starboard engine.
Lat. 11°-58' S; Long. 155°-27' E.
2000 Lat. 12°-06' S; Long. 155°-20' E.
2035 Received CSS5's serial No. 71 (260029 of June 1942) giv-
ing information on recognition signals. Decoded at 2115.
-16-
ل

— page 98 —
SECRET
June 27, 1942
Underway as before. Base course 215°T. Making two-
thirds standard speed on starboard engine, charging bat-
tery on port.
0230 Completed battery charge and went ahead two-thirds stand-
ard speed on both engines.
0413 Moonset.
0505 Dove. Lat. 12°-56' S; Long. 154°-40' E.
0600 Surfaced and went ahead two-thirds standard on both engines.
0604 Sunrise.
0800 Lat. 13°-09' S; Long. 154°-24' E. Changed Course to 205°T.
1200 Lat. 13°-38' S; Long. 154°-12' E. Navigation miles to
date 2988. Miles since 1200, June 26, 1942 - 147. Course
and speed made good since 1200, June 26, 1942 - 217°T;
5.75 knots.
1500 At Lat. 14°S; Long. 154°E. Changed course to 180°T.
1628 Moonrise.
1725 Sunset.
2000 Lat. 14°-51' S; Long. 154°-06' E.
2030 Changed course to 185°T.

June 28, 1942
Underway as before. Base course 185°T. Making two-
thirds standard speed on both engines.
0300 At Lat. 16°S; Long. 154°E. Changed course to 170°T for
base.
0523 Moonset.
0524 Dove to change valves on port main engine air compressor.
0602 Surfaced and went ahead two-thirds standard speed on both
engines, and commenced carrying a battery float.
0612 Sunrise.
0800 Lat. 16°-33' S; Long. 154°-06' S.
0823 Fire in After Battery Room. Found to be in TAR motor-
generator(generator end). Armature had burned out. At
time was attempting to clear arrival message to ComTask
Group 42.1.
0907 Secured from fire quarters. No damage except to motor-
generator. Endeavering to make temporary repairs, but it
is not promising. Radio Transmitter out of commission.
1200 Lat. 16°-59'-30" S; Long. 154°-10' E. Navigation miles to
date - 3194. Miles since 1200, June 27, 1942 - 206.
Course and speed made good since 1200, June 27, 1942 -
179°T; 8.1 knots.
1718 Sunset.
1724 Moonrise.
2000 Lat. 18°-13'-30" S; Long. 154°-19' E.
2048 Received CSS5's serial No. 72(280703 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of enemy and instructions to S-37. De-
coded at 2120.

-17-

— page 99 —
June 29, 1942
Underway as before. Making two-thirds standard speed
on both engines, carrying a battery float, Base course
170°T.
0102 Received CSS5's serial No. 73(281302 of June 1942)
directing this vessel to report position and expected
time of arrival at Jiggs. Decoded at 0125.
0400 Unable to clear message reporting position and time of
arrival. Transmitter out of commission. Temporary
repairs not effective.
0617 Sunrise.
0633 Moonset.
0800 Lat. 20°S; Long. 154°-39' E. Changed course to 175°T.
1200 Lat. 20°-40' S; Long. 154°-41' E. Navigation miles to
Date - 3417. Miles since 1200, June 28, 1942 - 223.
Course and speed made good since 1200, June 28, 1942 -
172°T; 9.2 knots.
1711 Sunset.
1808 Moonrise.
2000 Lat. 21°-51'-30" S; Long. 154°-50'-30" E.
2035 Received CSS5's serial No. 74(290703 of June 1942)
giving information on communications. Decoded at 2045.
2215 Secured battery float and went ahead standard speed on
both engines.
2315 Changed course to 180°T.

June 30, 1942
Underway as before. Base course 180°T. Making standard
speed on both engines.
0102 Cleared arrival message (281600 of June 1942 to
Belconnen on 4235 Kcs. Belconnen receipted for the
message on 5600 Kcs. Own position Lat. 22°-46' S; Long.
154°-55' E.
0313 Received CSS5's serial No. 75(291042 of June 1942) giv-
ing information of friendly forces in vicinity of Base.
Decoded at 0327.
0623 Sunrise.
0800 Lat. 24°-00' S; Long. 154°-55' E.
1200 Lat. 24°-43' S; Long. 154°-54'-30" E. Navigation miles
to date - 3660. Miles since 1200, June 29, 1942 - 243.
Course and speed made good since 1200, June 29, 1942 -
177°T.; 10.1 knots.
1355 Passed glass fishing net buoy about 10 inches in dia-
meter, close aboard. Nothing attached to buoy. Lat. 25°-
03'-30" S; Long. 154°-54'-30" E.
1658 Sunset.
1900 Moonrise. Changed course to 225°T.
2000 Lat. 25°-51' S; Long. 154°-59'-30" E. Nine (9) miles
north of Point Jiggs. Changed course to 220°T.

July 1, 1942
Underway as before. Base Course 220°T. Making standard
speed on both engines.
0100 Changed course to 230°T for Point "A".
-18-

— page 100 —
July 1, 1942(Cont'd)
0149 Sighted submarine bearing 145°T, distant about 3-1/2
miles on opposite course. Sillouette similar to S-type.
Believed to be S-40 boutbound. Did not challenge.
0335 Sighted loom of Cape Moreton light bearing 247°T, dis-
tant about 30 miles.
0551 At Point "A". Changed course to 285°T. standing in
swept channel.
0657 On various courses standing up to Caloundra Head.
0801 Sighted plane bearing 115°T, distant about 6 miles on
parralel course.
0807 Challenged plane. It replied by rocking wings.
0820 Challenged by Port War Signal Station Caloundra Head.
Replied correctly.
0822 Sighted several ships hull down in vicinity of Cape
Moreton.
0835 Commenced watering batteries. Ships previously sighted
were 8 men-of-war.
0840 Anti-aircraft gunfire from several of the ships. Appear
to be firing a practice on a plane.
0845 Standing into Northwest Channel.
1030 Men-of-War overtaking and passing, standing in to
Brisbane.
1203 Entered Brisbane River, various courses and speeds.
1350 Moored alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN, New Farm Wharf, Bris-
bane, Australia. Total navigation miles of War Patrol
No. 2 - 3912.

— page 101 —
S
SECRET
Weather During Subject War Patrol

Weather was generally fair, except in vicinity of
New Britain and New Ireland, where it was frequently over-
cast and squally. As a result of frequent rain squalls,
surface and horizon haze, and dark clouds on the horizon,
visibility was generally poor in this area, particularly
near land off the south east coast of New Britain and at
entrance to St. George's Channel.

Coral Sea was moderately rough.

ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 102 —
SECRET
Tidal Information During Subject War Patrol
The current in St. George's Channel was predominantly
northwest about 1 knot. Wind was from southeast during
period observed.
North and northwest of Crater Peninsula, and between
New Britain and New Ireland the current was setting north-
west with drift of 1 knot. However, north of Gazelle Pen-
insula about 2 to 3 miles off shore, a counter current,
setting east with drift of 1 knot, was encountered on two
occassions.
Between latitude 7°S. and New Britain a pronounced
southwesterly current (drift 1 knot) was encountered, parti-
cularly off southeast coast of New Britain near land. Wind
from southeast.
From Latitude of Rossel Island to 7ºs. the current set
north - northwesterly 1 to 1.5 knots. Wind from southeast.
In vicinity of Pocklington Reef and easterly current
of 1/2 knot was encountered. Wind from southeast.
In Coral Sea the current was predominantly north-north-
westerly 1/2 to 1 knot. Wind from southeast.

ENCLOSURE (C)
ப

— page 103 —
SECRET
Navigational Aids During Subject Patrol
-
No navigational aids were noted in the New Britain -
New Ireland area. Reliance was placed on piloting and celes-
tial navigation. The bubble sextant was used without much
success.

ENCLOSURE (D)

— page 104 —
--SECRET
Shipping and Air Patrol Encountered During Subject War Patrol

Except for two (2) picket boats seen in vicinity of
Blanche Bay no enemy was sighted.

ENCLOSURE (E)

— page 106 —
SECORET
Enemy Anti-Submarine Measures During Subject Patrol
None encountered, except two picket boats which patrol-
led off Crater Peninsula - the same as encountered on War
Patrol No. 1.

An effective method to blank out own ship's noises and
propellers from enemy is to cruise very close to land (1/2 to
1 mile) while submerged. This is frequently possible in the
New Britain - New Ireland area where the water is very deep
right up to the shore line. On War Patrol No. 1 this vessel
used this method to advantage off Crater Penninsula, and
during present patrol found that the background noises while
submerged near land were very pronounced.

ENCLOSURE (G)

— page 107 —
SFCQB-E T
Material Defects Experienced During Subject War
Patrol
June 5, 1942
At 1902, No. 1 Starboard main engine exhause valve rock-
er arm bracket carried away on one side - clean break. Caused
by the set screw which secured the rocker arm pin to the
bracket, backing out allowing the rocker arm pin to back out,
throwing the entire strain of the rocker arm mechanism on
one side of the bracket. Spare bracket obtained from the
GRIFFIN at 0215, June 6, 1942. Repairs effected at 0400,
June 6, 1942 and starboard engine back in full commission.

June 6, 1942
When diving at 1512, "C" main vent failed to open prop-
erly by air operation. Investigation revealed that the vent
would open by air, but would quickly close partially, indi-
cating leakage of air past the piston operating leathers.
During the remainder of the Patrol, "C" vent was operated
manually. New leathers are on board and will be installed
upon return to Base. Leathers last renewed in "C" vent,
August, 1940.

June 11, 1942
At 0830, the port C&R Air Compressor developed a leak
in 3rd stage and also a water leak in 3rd stage block. Un-
able to effect repairs at sea.
At 0930, the trim pump developed a bad knock. Investi-
gation revealed valves not adjusted properly and plunger nuts
loose. Completely disassembled pump. Repaired and in com-
mission at 1400, June 12, 1942.

June 19, 1942
At 0235, forward spring bearing on starboard line shaft
wiped. Bearing had wiped just previous to this vessel's
departure for War Patrol (June 5, 1942) and had been running
abnormally warm prior to wiping. The bearing was rolled out
scraped, refitted, tested out and back in commission at 1200.
The bearing had been receiving sufficient oil and there was
no dirt or foreign matter present. It is believed that the
starboard line shafting is out of alignment as all previous
bearing trouble has been experienced on that side.

June 22, 1942
At 0354, the starboard, main engine which had been on
propulsion (250 RPM), stopped without warning. The trouble
was determined to be in the engine air compressor, which had
a cracked 3rd stage head. The head was renewed during the
dive following, and upon surfacing an attempt was made to
start the engine. When the engine was rolled a thumping
sound was heard and the after end of the air compressor (3rd
-1-
ENCLOSURE (H)

— page 108 —
---B-E-E-T
June 22, 1942(Cont'd)
stage end) lifted up as piston approached top of stroke.
During the dive the next day (June 23) the head was removed
and 1st and 3rd stage head clearances checked and found to
be normal. No cause could be determined for the noise, and
it will be necessary to remove the compressor block to find
and correct same.

The after connecting rod bearing was removed, lower end
of rod lashed to engine housing, and piston secured in place,
in order that engine may be operated cross-connected, receiv-
ing air from port main engine air compressor.

At 0355, when port main engine was started, #7 cylinder
failed to fire. Investigation revealed a cracked cylinder
head. The engine was secured for diving at 0455. During the
dive the head was renewed and engine was in commission upon
surfacing at 1900.

June 28, 1942
At 0823, a fire occurred in the After Battery Room.
Investigation revealed it to be an electrical fire in the
radio motor-generator (generator end). The armature of the
grid bias generator had several conductors burned through.
The relay switch on the starting panel was inoperative be-
cause of defective solenoid. The interpole field on the high
voltage end of the motor generator had a zero ground. This
field was temporarily slumted to give limited operation
of the transmitter, but was unable to clear message to ComTask
Group 42.1. During entire patrol the motor-generator had
been operated 1/2 hour daily and up to the time of the cas-
ualty had operated satisfactory.

-2-
ENCLOSURE (H)
J

— page 109 —
S-E-C -R-E-T
Food, Health, and Habitability During Subject War Patrol
Upon departure for the Patrol about two-thirds of the
officers and men had bad colds, which persisted for sev-
eral days. This caused a noticeable reduction in their
efficiency. Two men were on the sick list with a bad cold
and slight fever for two days.
Two men were on the sick or light duty list for practi-
cally the entire patrol because of gonorrhea, which was dis-
covered after departure for the patrol.
The food was in general good, ample and wholesome. The
following food spoilage occurred:
(a) 150 lbs. butter.
(b) 50 lbs. white flour.
(c) 50 lbs. luncheon meat.
The habitability of the vessel while on the surface was
good, but during the all day dives the heat and humidity made
the boat quite uncomfortable.
ENCLOSURE (I)

— page 110 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
General Comments and Recommendations During Subject War
Patrol

SOUND
Sound conditions were very good during the war patrol.
In the New Britain - New Ireland area the sound operators
frequently picked up water noises which were very similar in
characteristics to propellers and "pings", particularly when
near land and at morning and evening twilight. Often on
these bearings all that was sighted would be flocks of birds
feeding. It is believed that these water noises came from
schools of fish or disturbances in the water near land.

UPKEEP
It is recommended that just prior to departure for
patrol, after an upkeep period, one day be alloted for in-
dependent operations, in order that all machinery may be
given a thorough test, particularly any machinery that has
been given an overhaul. Usually repairs are completed at the last
minute before departure on patrol, resulting in no test-
ing, and in several instances the repairs had to be completed
at sea under unfavorable conditions.

COMMUNICATIONS
Reception was in general very good. On several occasions
there was considerable atmospheric disturbance, but this did not
materially affect reception. On three different occasions
(2044, June 15; 2308, June 21; and 0100, June 26), station
OMJ (believed to be German) caused excessive interferance with
reception on 5600 Kcs, which somewhat disrupted the schedules.
After June 25th the low frequency (44.8Kcs) broadcasts gave
excellent reception. First reception on this frequency was
obtained when this vessel was in about Latitude 11°S; Longi-
tude 156° E, south bound. On the high frequency bands 5600 Kcs
gave the best reception.
Operators and transmissions from station VHP (Belconnen)
were very satisfactory.
Because of the casualty to the transmitter motor genera-
tor, this vessel had much difficulty in clearing messages. Our
"arrival" message was finally cleared to Belconnen (June 30)
[HANDWRITTEN: 4235] on [HANDWRITTEN: 5600] Kcs, after three day's attempt. by using a "Jury-rig"
on the radio motor-generator (after casualty), which gave a
very low power output on the transmitter.

-1-
ENCLOSURE (J)

— page 111 —
S-E-G-R-E-T

LOGISTICS
Navigation miles steamed during War Patrol No. 2 - 3912
Engine " " " " " " - 4340
Fuel used during War Patrol No. 2. - - - - - 19600 Gals.
Fuel used per engine mile during War Patrol No. 2 - 4.5 "
Fuel used per navigation mile during War Patrol No.2- 5.0 "
Lubricating oil used during War Patrol No. 2 - - - 2100 "
Lub. oil used per navigation mile during WarPatrol #2-0.54 "
Lub. oil used per engine mile during War Patrol No.2- 0.48 "
Number days underway during War Patrol No. 2. - - - 27
Number all day dives during War Patrol No. 2. - - - 16
Average length of all day dives during War Patrol #2- 13.6 hrs.
Average length of battery charges following all day
dives

— page 112 —
FC5-5/A16-3/01/Hr
Serial 60
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
From:
To :
Via :

Subject:
Enclosure:
1.
enclosure (A).
2.
of the U.S.S.
ing of a KAKO

10 01348
TASK FORCE FORTY-TWO
September 25, 1942.
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST, 5510.16]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: 08096H] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/13/22]
The Commander Task Force FORTY-TWO.
The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. FLEET.
The Command er U.S. Naval Forces, Southwest
Pacific Area.
U.S.S. S-47 - Report of Third War Patrol -
July 28 to September 22, 1942.
(A) Subject report.
The subject report is forwarded herewith as
Award of the Navy Cross to the Commanding Officer
S-47 has been recommend ed as a result of the sink-
class heavy cruiser on this patrol.
[SIGNATURE: R. W. Christie]
R. W. CHRISTIE.
Copy to:
Vice Opna v - (1)
Cincpac - (1)
Cinclant - (1)
Comsopac for - (1)
Comsubspa с - (1)
Comsubslant/ - (1)
Comsubsowespac - (1)
U.S.S. S-47 file - (1)
Each S/N of TF-42 - (NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SHA - BURN)
CSS-5 Patrol Summaries File (1)
CSS-5, C3D-53 War Diaries (1 each

43192 FILMED

— page 113 —
1
0
SS158/A16-3
Serial ( 0003 )
CONFIDENTIAL
From:
To
:
Subject:
References:
Enclosure:
1.
The Commanding Officer.
10 01348
U.S.S. S-47
c/o Postmaster;
San Francisco, Cal.
September 22, 1942.
The Commander Submarine Squadron Five.
U.S.S. S-47 (SS158) - Report of War Patrol
No. 3 (Including period between War Patrol,
No. 2 and No.3).
(a) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 042 of April 20, 1942.
(b) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 053 of May 29, 1942.
(c) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 083 of August 1, 1942.
(A) Report of Third War Patrol.
In accordance with references, the report of
the third war patrol conducted during the period July 28 to
September 22, 1942, is submitted herewith as enclosure (A).
2.
All times are zone minus ten.

[SIGNATURE: J. W. DAVIS.]

— page 114 —
S-E-C-R-E-NTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
July 1, 1942 to July 28, 1942.
10 01348

This vessel returned from War Patrol No. 2 on July 1, 1942,
and was moored alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN (NEW FARM WHARF, BRISBANE,
AUSTRALIA) until departure for War Patrol No. 3 (July 28, 1942).
The above period was utilized for leave, recreation, necessary re-
pairs, and preparation for next war patrol.

During the above period, the following work by ship's force
and tender was accomplished:

Made operative depth setting mechanism on all torpedo tubes;
renewed leathers in "C" main vent (No.3 main ballast) pneumatic
operating mechanism; made tight and tested to 88 lbs. per.sq.in.
No.2 auxiliary tank - renewed 18 rivets in tank after bulkhead, 6
in forward bulkhead, and caulked seams and rivets; renewed float
gauges in Nos.l and 2 auxiliary tanks; renewed lead lining in bat-
tery water tank; rewound armature of TAR motor-generator (generator
end) and renewed grounds in field coil; ground in sea and stop val-
ves to both heads; ground in blow and inboard vent valves to main
ballast tanks; rebored, repoured and spotted in forward spring bear-
ing (starboard line shafting); overhauled and made operative small
C&R air compressor; completely overhauled port C&R air compressor;
machined blocks of starboard C&R air compressor for water jackets;
checked and adjusted main engine clutches; renewed Nos. 3 and 4
sections main engine exhaust headers (port); renewed 3rd stage
liner in port main engine air compressor; renewed 3rd stage star-
board main engine air compressor liner and all pistons.

July 28, 1942

1013 - Underway in accordance with Commander Task Group 42.1
Operation Order No. S25-42, serial 0043 of July 27, 1942
for patrol area (Off southeast coast of NEW IRELAND). Stand-
ing out on various courses and speeds conforming to channel.
1145 - Exchanged calls with S-42 standing in.
1150 - Cleared Brisbane River and changed course to 0700 (T). to
point MAX (Lat. 27-16 S., Long. 153-20 E. - inside MORETON
BAY) for test diving.
1333 - Dove on course 080° (T) at point MAX.
1340 - Surfaced to pump water out - too heavy.
1351 - Dove.
1405 - Changed course to 2100 (Τ).
1415 - Surfaced.
1434 - Stopped, lying to.
1455 - Fired two rounds of 4"/50 cal. target ammunition and one
round of service to test gun.
1457 - Ahead on both engines, standing out of MORETON BAY.
1720 - Sunset.

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— page 115 —
0
0
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
1754 - Moonrise.
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1755 - Exchanged calls with Port War Signal Station, CALOUNDRA
HEAD. Received permission to proceed.
1815 - Cleared HAMILTON PATCHES, inner buoy, standing out.
1900 - Observed several various colored rockets over MORETON IS.
2038 - Heard plane overhead. Unable to determine course.
2040 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.6 (280839) giving instruc-
tions to S-46.
2055 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.5 (280707) giving informa-
tion of enemy in NEW BRITAIN AREA.
2219 - At point "VAN" (Lat.27-05 S., Long. 153-42 E.) Changed
course to 0200 (T), to a point 4 miles north of the track
between points "VAN" and "BUD" (Lat. 26-00 S., Long. 155° E)
2305 - Changed course to 047° (T) to parallel track between points
"VAN" and "BUD". Ahead standard speed (9.5 knots) on both
engines.

July 29, 1942.
0030 - Underway as before. Base course 047° (T).
0114 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.4 (270829) giving informa-
tion of enemy in SOLOMON ISLANDS and NEW GUINEA.
0546 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.7 (281259) giving informa -
tion of enemy in SOLOMON ISLANDS.
0546 - Dove for training.
0617 - Surfaced. Standard speed on both engines.
0620 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position (DR) - Lat. 26-00 S., Long. 154-53 E.
0900 - Changed course to 0000 (T). At point 6 miles due north
of point "BUD".
1200 - Position. Lat. 25-32-30 S., Long. 155-05-30 E.
1714 - Sunset.
1800 - Slowed to two thirds speed on starboard engine and com-
menced battery charge on the port.
1850 - Moonrise.
2000 - Position. Lat. 24-20 S., Long. 154-50 E. Changed course
to 005° (T).
2040 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.8 (290813) giving informa-
tion of enemy.

July 30, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 005° (T).
0315 - Completed battery charge (2 hour over-charge) and went
ahead standard speed on both engines.
0548 - Dove for training.
0600 - Changed course to 000°(T).
-2-

— page 116 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
0615
0642
-
-
Sunrise.
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
0800 - Position (DR) - Lat. 22-57 S., Long. 154-57 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 22-02 S., Long. 154-52-30 E.
1720 - Sunset.
1954 - Moonrise.
2000 - Position. Lat. 20-45 S., Long: 154-56 E.

July 31, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 000° (T).
Received Comsubron 5 serial No.9 (301307) giving informa-
tion of enemy.
0116
-
0541
-
Made dive for training.
0609
-
0621
-
Sunrise.
Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
0800
-
Position. Lat. 18-49-30 S., Long. 154-46 E. Changed
course to 0050 (T). Slowed to two thirds speed on star-
board engine and one third speed on port engine to run in
port C&R air compressor.
1150
-
Ahead standard speed on both engines.
1200
-
Position (DR)
-
Lat. 18-22 S., Long. 154-48 E.
1534
Made dive to test after fuel group (Nos.5 and 6 fuel oil
tanks) for leaks.
1553 -
At 90 feet the after fuel group had full sea pressure in-
dicating bad leaks. (See "Material Defects".)
1602
-
1726
-
Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
Sunset.
2000
-
Position (DR)
-
Lat. 17-08 S., Long. 154-55 E.
-
20 50 Moonrise

August 1, 1942.

0323
-
0531
-
0605
-
0616
-
Underway as before. Base course 005° (T).
Received Comsubron 5 serial No.10 (311300) giving informa-
tion of enemy.
Made dive to test for leaks at 90 feet after fuel group
(Nos.5 and 6 F.0. tanks) had full sea pressure. Nos. 1
and 4 main ballast tanks also had full sea pressure at
this depth with all kingstons, vents, and drain valves
closed. Also full sea pressure on No.8 fuel tank.
Sunrise.
Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on both engines.
0701 - Stopped. Lying to to test after fuel group for leaks.
Because of sea, unable to see bubbles rising from tanks,
but pressure in the tanks dropped rapidly.
0713
-
Ahead two thirds speed on both engines.
0730 - Decided to return to Base because of fuel tank leaks.
Changed course to 135° (T) to return along longitude
156-15 E.

-3-

— page 117 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0800 - Position. Lat. 15-26-30 S., Long. 155-03-00 E.
0815 - Ahead standard spoed on both engines.
1145 - Cleared message to station VIS (SYDNEY) reporting return
of this vessel to Base and giving E.T.A.
1200 - Position. Lat. 15-56-00 S., Long. 155-31-30 E.
1603 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.11 (010247) for S-44.
1725 - Sunset.
1830 - Changed course to 180° (T).
2000 - Position. Lat. 16-51-00 S., Long. 156-10-30 E. Changed
course to 170° (Τ).
2050 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.12 (010713) reporting this
vessel's return to Base.
2142 - Moonrise.

August 2, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 170° (T).
0305 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.13 (011630) giving times
of arrival of this vessel and S-43.
0400 - Changed course to 180° (T).
0602 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 18-49-30 S., Long. 156-19-30 Ε.
1200 - Position. Lat. 19-26-30 S., Long. 156-17-00 E.
1611 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.14 (020345) for S-46.
1723 - Sunset.
2000 - Position. Lat. 20-39-30 S., Long. 156-19-00 E.
2230 - Moonrise.

August 3, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 180° (T).
0608 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 22-36 S., Long. 156-18 E. Changed course
to 1980 (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 23-09-30 S., Long. 156-07-00 E. Stopped
both engines and went ahead on both motors to discharge
battery (6 hour rate).
1714 - Sunset.
1746 - Completed battery discharge and went ahead one third speed
on starboard engine and commenced battery charge on port
engine.
2000 - Position. Lat. 24-08-30 S., Long. 155-50-30 E.
2037 - Sighted dim low light bearing 2050 (T), distant about five
miles. Flashed on and off several times for next half
hour. Visibility very good. Clear dark night with
scattered cumulus clouds. Near horizon where light was
sighted, there were low hanging dark clouds, but horizon
clearly visible.
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6

— page 118 —
0
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
2047 - Secured battery charge and went ah ead standard speed on
both engines to investigate light.
2150 - Slowed to one third speed on starboard engine and resumed
battery charge on port engine. Light not seen for thirty
minutes. When last seen, it appeared to be getting fainter.
Last seen on bearing 2000 (T).
2230 - Changed course to 1800 (T).
2309 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.14 (030922).
2330 - Moonrise.

August 4, 1942.

0230 - Underway as before. Base course 180° (T).
Cleared message to SYDNEY (VIS) reporting lights sighted
at 2037 as probable enemy submarine.
0400 - Changed course to 2100 (T) for point "BUD".
0500 - Secured battery charge.
0534 - Submerged for training.
0614 - Sunrise.
0616 - Surfaced. Ahead one third speed on starboard engine and
commenced battery charge on port engine.
0800 - Position. Lat, 25-11 S., Long. 155-26-30 E. Changed
course to 205° (T). Ahead two thirds speed on starboard
engine.
1158 - Secured battery charge. Ahead standard speed on both
engines.
1140 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.15 (032253).
1200 - Position. Lat. 25-31 S., Long. 155-19 E.
1600 - At point "BUD". Changed course to 227° (T) for point "VAN".
1713 - Sunset.
2000 - Position. Lat.26-38 S., Long. 154-37 E. Changed course
to 2450 (Τ).
2018 - Sighted loom of CAPE MORETON LIGHT bearing 248° (T), dis-
tant about 70 miles.
2050 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.17 (040516)
2350 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.16 (041250)
2400 - Changed course to 240° (Т).
0120 -

August 5, 1942

0120 - At point "VAN". Standing into MORETON BAY via swept chan-
nel. Various courses.
0200 - Stopped engines and went ahead on motors at 6 hour battery
rate.
0500 - Exchanged recognition signals with P.W.S.S. CALOUNDRA HEAD.
Received permission to proceed.
0530 - Entered MORETON BAY (Northwest channel).
0600 - Secured battery discharge and went ahead standard speed.
1054 - Moored alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN, NEW FARM WHARF, BRISBANE,
AUSTRALIA. Navigation miles this cruise - 1606.

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2
J

— page 119 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
August 6, 1942 to August 25, 1942.

This period was devoted to upkeep, drydocking, and prepara-
tion for continuation of War Patrol No.3.

August 14, 1942.
1537 - Underway for SOUTH BRISBANE DRYDOCK.
1615 - Moored alongside entrance to drydock.
2244 - Entered drydock.
2358 - Resting on keep blocks.

August 23, 1942.
1230 - Commenced flooding drydock.
1630 - Ship waterborne.
1910 - Bow cleared sill. Various courses and speeds enroute
NEW FARM WHARF.
1947 - Moored alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN, NEW FARM WHARF.

The following work was accomplished by ship's force, tender,
and yard:

Steamed and cleaned all fuel tanks; tested and repaired all
tanks (renewed 60 rivets in Nos, 5 and 6 fuel oil tanks and in
main drain below these tanks); extensive welding and caulking
on bulkhead between No.4 main ballast tank and No.2 auxiliary
tank; repaired leaks on old kingston wells of No.8 fuel oil tank
and filled wells with cement; enlarged sea connection in No.4
main ballast tank for ice machine and air conditioning plant cir-
culating water; ground in all sea valves, kingstons, vents, and
drain valves; overhauled and made operative No.3 main ballast
tank kingston operating gear; examined main bearings on starboard
engine and took bridge guage readings; reversed leads on star-
board main motor in accordance with BuShips letter; commenced
installation of air conditioning; routine upkeep and cleaning;
and ground in all main ballast tank salvage check valves.

August 25, 1942
0802 - Underway in accordance with Commander Task Group 42,1
operation order No. S30-42, serial 0053, of August 24,
1942, for patrol area (ST. GEORGES CHANNEL and northwest
of RABAUL). Standing out on various courses and speeds.
Cleared Brisbane River (PILE LIGHTHOUSE) and changed
0941 -
course to point "DOG" for operations in accordance with
Commander Task Force 42 mailgram 210410 of August, 1942.
1036 - Stopped, lying to. Ground developed in field circuit of
starboard main motor.
-6-
8

— page 120 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1048 - Anchored at point "DOG" to clear ground.
1430 - Released U.S.S. TULSA. Ground cleared.
1450 - Underway.
1501 - Made test dive. Course 300° (T) from point "DOG".
1531 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines. Standing
out.
1610 - Received CTF 42 serial No.6 for SCULPIN and STURGEON.
1815 - Exchanged recognition signals with P.W.S.S. CALOUNDRA HEAD.
Obtained permission to proceed.
1845 - Cleared MORETON BAY, standing out of swept channel.
2110 - Sighted darkened ship bearing 1020 (T), distant about three
miles, on southerly course, passing from port to starboard.
Appeared to be small three-island ship. About five miles
east of CAPE MORETON.
2114 - Darkened ship changed course to right, to opposite and
parallel course to this vessel. Changed course to 1200 (T)
to clear.
2118 - Challenged darkened ship, using Minor War Vessel Signal.
No reply. Then used "AA". Ship replied with "EMA" and
then turned on dim navigational lights.
2124 - Ship passed abeam to port, distant about mile, appeared
to be small, three-island coastwise vessel heavily loaded.
Later observed CAPE MORETON SIGNAL STATION challenge her,
and then she proceeded on into swept channel. Changed
course to 1050 (T).
2230 - At Point "VAN". Changed course to 047° (T) for point "BUD".
2309 - Received CTF 42 serial No.7 (251137) for STURGEON and
SCULPIN.

August 26, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 047° (T).
0210 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.57 (251337) giving informa-
tion of enemy ships.
0548 - Submerged for training.
0638 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
0800 - Position. Lat. 26-14-30 S., Long. 154-57-00 E. 15 miles
south of point "BUD".
0815 - Changed course to 019° (T).
0854 - Received plain language contact report from plane on 5600
Kcs. reporting enemy force off eastern tip of NEW GUINEA.
1200 - Position. Lat. 25-29 S., Long. 155-10 E.
1512 - Received plain language contact from plane 1S7B on 5600 Kcs.
reporting enemy force off eastern tip of NEW GUINEA.
1630 - Received another plain language contact report (No.5) from
plane on 5600 Kcs. reporting enemy convoy off NEW GUINEA.
1723 - Sunset. Moonrise. Full moon.
2000 - Position. Lat. 24-12 S., Long. 155-43-30 E.

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9

— page 120 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1048 - Anchored at point "DOG" to clear ground.
1430 - Released U.S.S. TULSA. Ground cleared.
1450 - Underway.
1501 - Made test dive. Course 300° (T) from point "DOG".
1531 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines. Standing
out.
1610 - Received CTF 42 serial No.6 for SCULPIN and STURGEON.
1815 - Exchanged recognition signals with P.W.S.S. CALOUNDRA HEAD.
Obtained permission to proceed.
1845 - Cleared MORETON BAY, standing out of swept channel.
2110 - Sighted darkened ship bearing 1020 (T), distant about three
miles, on southerly course, passing from port to starboard.
Appeared to be small three-island ship. About five miles
east of CAPE MORETON.
2114 - Darkened ship changed course to right, to opposite and
parallel course to this vessel. Changed course to 1200 (T)
to clear.
2118 - Challenged darkened ship, using Minor War Vessel Signal.
No reply. Then used "AA". Ship replied with "EMA" and
then turned on dim navigational lights.
2124 - Ship passed abeam to port, distant about mile, appeared
to be small, three-island coastwise vessel heavily loaded.
Later observed CAPE MORETON SIGNAL STATION challenge her,
and then she proceeded on into swept channel. Changed
course to 1050 (T).
2230 - At Point "VAN". Changed course to 047° (T) for point "BUD".
2309 - Received CTF 42 serial No.7 (251137) for STURGEON and
SCULPIN.

August 26, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 047° (T).
0210 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.57 (251337) giving informa-
tion of enemy ships.
0548 - Submerged for training.
0638 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
0800 - Position. Lat. 26-14-30 S., Long. 154-57-00 E. 15 miles
south of point "BUD".
0815 - Changed course to 019° (T).
0854 - Received plain language contact report from plane on 5600
Kcs. reporting enemy force off eastern tip of NEW GUINEA.
1200 - Position. Lat. 25-29 S., Long. 155-10 E.
1512 - Received plain language contact from plane 1S7B on 5600 Kcs.
reporting enemy force off eastern tip of NEW GUINEA.
1630 - Received another plain language contact report (No.5) from
plane on 5600 Kcs. reporting enemy convoy off NEW GUINEA.
1723 - Sunset. Moonrise. Full moon.
2000 - Position. Lat. 24-12 S., Long. 155-43-30 E.

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9

— page 121 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
2353 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.59 (261127) giving informa-
tion of enemy in NEW GUINEA and SOLOMONS.
2400 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.59 (260955) giving informa-
tion on GUADALCANAL plain language broadcasts.

August 27, 1942.
0527 - Underway as before. Base course 019° (T).
0552 - Dove for training.
0554 - Sunrise.
0613 - Went to 200 feet to test for leaks. Minor gland leaks.
0800 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
1100 - Position. Lat. 22-29 S., Long. 156-23 E.
1200 - Changed course to 0000 (T).
1723 - Position. Lat. 21-45 S., Long. 156-28 E.
1827 - Sunset.
2000 - Moonrise.
2343 - Position. Lat. 20-29 S., Long. 156-41 E.
Received Comsubron 5 serial No.61 (271240) giving informa-
tion of enemy in SOLOMONS and NEW GUINEA AREAS.

August 28, 1942.
0123 - Underway as before. Base course 000° (T).
Received Comsubron 5 serial No.60 (271217) giving informa-
tion regarding identification of own and enemy ships.
0512 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.62 (271720) giving informa-
tion of enemy in SOLOMONS.
0545 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 18-27 S.; Long. 156-50 E:
1200 - Position. Lat. 17-44 S., Long. 156-46 E.
1700 - Dove for training.
1723 - Sunset.
1734 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
1925 - Moon rise.
2000 - Position. Lat. 16-30 S., Long. 156-38 E.
2155 - Received Comsubron 5 message (280801 of August 1942) giving
new scramble for recognition signals.

August 29, 1942.
0110 - Underway as before. Base course 000° (T).
Received Comsubron 5 serial No.63 (281404) giving informa-
tion of enemy, changing serials, correction to Comsubron 5
serial No.58, and dope on SYKO cards.
0514 - Made dive for training.
0541 - Sunrise.
0555 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.

-8-

10

— page 121 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
2353 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.59 (261127) giving informa-
tion of enemy in NEW GUINEA and SOLOMONS.
2400 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.59 (260955) giving informa-
tion on GUADALCANAL plain language broadcasts.

August 27, 1942.

0527 - Underway as before. Base course 019° (T).
0552 - Dove for training.
0554 - Sunrise.
0613 - Went to 200 feet to test for leaks. Minor gland leaks.
0800 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
1100 - Position. Lat. 22-29 S., Long. 156-23 E.
1200 - Changed course to 0000 (T).
1723 - Position. Lat. 21-45 S., Long. 156-28 E.
1827 - Sunset.
2000 - Moonrise.
2343 - Position. Lat. 20-29 S., Long. 156-41 E.
Received Comsubron 5 serial No.61 (271240) giving informa-
tion of enemy in SOLOMONS and NEW GUINEA AREAS.

August 28, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 000° (T).
0123 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.60 (271217) giving informa-
tion regarding identification of own and enemy ships.
0512 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.62 (271720) giving informa-
tion of enemy in SOLOMONS.
0545 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 18-27 S.; Long. 156-50 E:
1200 - Position. Lat. 17-44 S., Long. 156-46 E.
1700 - Dove for training.
1723 - Sunset.
1734 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.
1925 - Moon rise.
2000 - Position. Lat. 16-30 S., Long. 156-38 E.
2155 - Received Comsubron 5 message (280801 of August 1942) giving
new scramble for recognition signals.

August 29, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 000° (T).
0110 - Received Comsubron 5 serial No.63 (281404) giving informa-
tion of enemy, changing serials, correction to Comsubron 5
serial No.58, and dope on SYKO cards.
0514 - Made dive for training.
0541 - Sunrise.
0555 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines.

-8-

10

— page 122 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0800 - Position. Lat. 14-30 S., Long. 156-27 E. Changed course
to 0020 (Τ).
1200 - Position. Lat. 13-53 S., Long. 156-36 E.
1600 - Changed course to 000° (T).
1729 - Sunset..
2000 - Position. Lat. 12-35 S., Long. 156-54 E. Changed course
to 3500 (T).
2015 - Moonrise.
2040 - Received Subs 42 NR 2 (290842) giving information of enemy
in SOLOMONS.
2322 - Received Subs 42 NR 3 (291241) giving information of enemy
ships in MILNE BAY and SOLOMONS.

August 30, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 350° (T).
0503 - Dove and commenced submerged patrol.
0537 - Sun rise.
0800 - Position... Lat. 11-03-30 S., Long. 156-33-30 E.
1200 - Position (DR) - Lat. 10-51-30 S., Long. 156-31-30 E.
1732 - Sunset..
1810 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on starboard and com-
menced battery charge on port.
2000 - Position. Lat. 10-17 S., Long. 156-18-30 E. Changed
course to 320° (Τ).
2038 - Received Subs 42 NR 4 (300330) giving patrol instructions
to S-37 and S-40.
2109 - Moonrise.

August 31, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
0120 - Received CTF 42 message (301401) giving instructions to
SAILFISH.
0253 - Completed battery charge. Ahead standard speed on both
engines.
0332 - Received Subs 42 NR 5 (301357) reporting S-41's results
and enemy sightings in SOLOMONS.
0458 - Dove.
0539 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 09-20 S., Long. 155-23 E.
1200 - Position (DR) - Lat. 09-10-30 S., Long. 155-15-30 E.
1738 - Sunset.
1805 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on starboard and com-
menced battery charge on port.
2000 - Position (DR) - Lat. 08-37 S., Long. 154-46 E.
2055 - Received CTF 42 message (310245) giving instructions to
SAILFISH.
2202 - Moonrise.
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//

— page 123 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-42
NARRATIVE
September 1, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
0114 - Completed battery charge and went ahead standard on both.
0130 - Received Subs 42 NR 6 (311338) reporting enemy sightings
in SOLOMONS.
0500 - Dove.
0546 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 07-57 S., Long. 154-22-30 E.
1200 - Position (DR) - Lat. 07-47-30 S., Long. 154-15 E.
1743 - Sunset.
1813.- Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on starboard and com-
menced battery charge on port.
2000 - Position (DR) - Lat. 07-21-30 S., Long. 153-51-30 E.
2038 - Received CTF 42 message (010415) giving information to
SAILFISH.
2058 - Received Subs 42 NR 7 (010701) reporting enemy sightings
NEW GUINEA and SOLOMONS AREAS.

September 2, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
0030 - Received Subs 42 NR 8 (011350) reporting enemy ships
south of BOUGANVILLE.
0130 - Completed battery charge and went ahead standard on both
engines.
0446 - Dove.
0547 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position (DR) - Lat. 06-27 S.; Long. 153-03 E.
1200 - Position (DR) - Lat. 06-18 S., Long. 152-55 E.
1748 - Sunset.
1820 - Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on starboard and went
ahead two thirds speed on port.
2000 - Position. Lat. 06-19 S., Long. 152-24-30 E. Changed
course to 0100 (T)
2310 - Received Subs 42 NR 10 (021132) shifting S-45's and this
vessel's patrol areas to include east and southeast coast
of NEW IRELAND.
2325 - Received Subs 42 NR 9 (021017) reporting enemy sightings
in NEW GUINEA and SOLOMONS AREAS.

September 3, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 0100 (T).
0014 - Ran into heavy rain squall. Visibility zero. Secured bat-
tery charge and slowed to one third speed on starboard.

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121

— page 123 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-42
NARRATIVE
September 1, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
0114 - Completed battery charge and went ahead standard on both.
0130 - Received Subs 42 NR 6 (311338) reporting enemy sightings
in SOLOMONS.
0500 - Dove.
0546 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 07-57 S., Long. 154-22-30 E.
1200 - Position (DR) - Lat. 07-47-30 S., Long. 154-15 E.
1743 - Sunset.
1813.- Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on starboard and com-
menced battery charge on port.
2000 - Position (DR) - Lat. 07-21-30 S., Long. 153-51-30 E.
2038 - Received CTF 42 message (010415) giving information to
SAILFISH.
2058 - Received Subs 42 NR 7 (010701) reporting enemy sightings
NEW GUINEA and SOLOMONS AREAS.

September 2, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
0030 - Received Subs 42 NR 8 (011350) reporting enemy ships
south of BOUGANVILLE.
0130 - Completed battery charge and went ahead standard on both
engines.
0446 - Dove.
0547 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position (DR) - Lat. 06-27 S.; Long. 153-03 E.
1200 - Position (DR) - Lat. 06-18 S., Long. 152-55 E.
1748 - Sunset.
1820 - Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on starboard and went
ahead two thirds speed on port.
2000 - Position. Lat. 06-19 S., Long. 152-24-30 E. Changed
course to 0100 (T)
2310 - Received Subs 42 NR 10 (021132) shifting S-45's and this
vessel's patrol areas to include east and southeast coast
of NEW IRELAND.
2325 - Received Subs 42 NR 9 (021017) reporting enemy sightings
in NEW GUINEA and SOLOMONS AREAS.

September 3, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 0100 (T).
0014 - Ran into heavy rain squall. Visibility zero. Secured bat-
tery charge and slowed to one third speed on starboard.

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121

— page 124 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0035 - Visibility improved. Resumed battery charge. During re-
mainder of night visibility very poor. Continuous rain.
0200 - Completed battery charge and went ahead two thirds speed
on both engines. Changed course to 320° (T) to close
CAPE ORFORD.
0445 - Dove. Changed course to 010° (T).
0547 - Sunrise.
0600 - Changed course to 270° (T) to close land (NEW BRITAIN).
0800 - Position (DR) - Lat: 05-18 S., Long. 152-11-30 E.
1200 - Position (DR) - Lat. 05-18 S., Long. 152-00-00 E. During
day continuous rain. Dark, and visibility very poor.
Cleared up in late afternoon.
1400 - Sighted land bearing 327° (T). Unable to identify.
1412 - Changed course to 030° (T).
1700 - Established position - 12 miles, 060° (T) from CAPE ORFORD.
1752 - Changed course to 010° (T).
1830 - Sunset.
Sound reported high speed screws bearing 340° (T). Believed
to be picket boat. Different from fish noises heard during
day. Changed course to 090° (T).
1900 - Screws faded to west.
1909 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on port and commenced
battery charge on starboard.
2000 - Position (DR) - Lat. 05-06 S., Long. 152-07 E.
2100 - Changed course to 000° (T).
2040 - Received Subs 42 NR 11 (030850) reporting enemy sightings
today NEW GUINEA - SOLOMONS.
2400 - Changed course to 320° (T).

September 4, 1942.
0200 - Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
Completed battery charge.
0440 - Changed course to 190° (T) to patrol on this line (Seven
miles off CAPE ORFORD).
0449 - Dove.
0445 - Shortly after diving, forward spring bearing on starboard
line shafting wiped. One shaft in commission until 0940
when repairs effected.
0548 - Sunrise.
0655 - Changed course to 210° (T) to close CAPE ORFORD.
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-06 S., Long. 152-23 E.
0945 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 05-11 S., Long. 152-14 E.
1420 - Changed course to 190° (T).
1750 - Sunset.
1842 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on port and commenced
battery charge on starboard.
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[HANDWRITTEN: 13]

— page 124 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0035 - Visibility improved. Resumed battery charge. During re-
mainder of night visibility very poor. Continuous rain.
0200 - Completed battery charge and went ahead two thirds speed
on both engines. Changed course to 320° (T) to close
CAPE ORFORD.
0445 - Dove. Changed course to 010° (T).
0547 - Sunrise.
0600 - Changed course to 270° (T) to close land (NEW BRITAIN).
0800 - Position (DR) - Lat: 05-18 S., Long. 152-11-30 E.
1200 - Position (DR) - Lat. 05-18 S., Long. 152-00-00 E. During
day continuous rain. Dark, and visibility very poor.
Cleared up in late afternoon.
1400 - Sighted land bearing 327° (T). Unable to identify.
1412 - Changed course to 030° (T).
1700 - Established position - 12 miles, 060° (T) from CAPE ORFORD.
1752 - Changed course to 010° (T).
1830 - Sunset.
Sound reported high speed screws bearing 340° (T). Believed
to be picket boat. Different from fish noises heard during
day. Changed course to 090° (T).
1900 - Screws faded to west.
1909 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on port and commenced
battery charge on starboard.
2000 - Position (DR) - Lat. 05-06 S., Long. 152-07 E.
2100 - Changed course to 000° (T).
2040 - Received Subs 42 NR 11 (030850) reporting enemy sightings
today NEW GUINEA - SOLOMONS.
2400 - Changed course to 320° (T).

September 4, 1942.
0200 - Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
Completed battery charge.
0440 - Changed course to 190° (T) to patrol on this line (Seven
miles off CAPE ORFORD).
0449 - Dove.
0445 - Shortly after diving, forward spring bearing on starboard
line shafting wiped. One shaft in commission until 0940
when repairs effected.
0548 - Sunrise.
0655 - Changed course to 210° (T) to close CAPE ORFORD.
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-06 S., Long. 152-23 E.
0945 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 05-11 S., Long. 152-14 E.
1420 - Changed course to 190° (T).
1750 - Sunset.
1842 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on port and commenced
battery charge on starboard.
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[HANDWRITTEN: 13]

— page 125 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1900 - Changed course to 185° (T).
2000 - Position. Lat. 05-53 S., Long. 152-13-30 E.
2043 - Received Subs 42 NR 14 (040744) reporting enemy sightings
today NEW GUINEA - SOLOMONS AREA.
2055 - Received Subs 42 NR 13 (040642) shifting patrol area of S-40.
2105 - Received Subs 42 NR 12 (040505) giving SCULPIN's and
STURGEON's movements.
2300 - Changed course to 015° (T).
2339 - Received CTF 42 message (041255) reporting SAILFISH'S ETA
off BRISBANE.
2347 - Sighted darkened objects about broad on port bow, 2000 -
3000 yards. Visibility very poor - surface and horizon
haze.
2348 - Identified as two small destroyers in column on parallel
and opposite course. Set gyro angles 90° left and swung
left to fire, but unable to reach firing course. Des-
troyers drew aft very rapidly and passed abeam 1000-1500
yards. Estimated speed 20-25 knots.
2350 - Came right to 0150 (T) and dove to avoid detection.
2400 - Screws faded out on bearing 200° (T).

September 5, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 015° (T).
0036 - Surfaced. Resumed battery charge on starboard. Ahead two
thirds speed on port.
0200 - Changed course to 010° (T).
0340 - Secured battery charge.
0400 - Ahead two thirds speed on both engines.
0445 - Dove. Course 015° (T).
0549 - Sunrise.
0600 - Changed course to 344° (T) to close land to establish
position.
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-09-30 S., Long. 152-21-30 E.
1000 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 05-03-30 S., Long. 152-12-30 E. Changed
course to 190° (T). Visibility very poor vicinity CAPE
ORFORD.
1500 - Sighted smoke on horizon bearing 246° (T).
1510 - Changed course to 270° (T). Smoke identified as two-masted
ship, hull down.
1522 - Changed course to 342° (T) (normal approach). Two ships
on northerly course. (025° T.)
1550 - Changed course to 350° (T).
1600 - Ships zigged. (course 050° T.). Ships identified as medium
sized MARU and escorting destroyer. Own ship's speed 6-8
knots to close.

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14

— page 125 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1900 - Changed course to 185° (T).
2000 - Position. Lat. 05-53 S., Long. 152-13-30 E.
2043 - Received Subs 42 NR 14 (040744) reporting enemy sightings
today NEW GUINEA - SOLOMONS AREA.
2055 - Received Subs 42 NR 13 (040642) shifting patrol area of S-40.
2105 - Received Subs 42 NR 12 (040505) giving SCULPIN's and
STURGEON's movements.
2300 - Changed course to 015° (T).
2339 - Received CTF 42 message (041255) reporting SAILFISH'S ETA
off BRISBANE.
2347 - Sighted darkened objects about broad on port bow, 2000 -
3000 yards. Visibility very poor - surface and horizon
haze.
2348 - Identified as two small destroyers in column on parallel
and opposite course. Set gyro angles 90° left and swung
left to fire, but unable to reach firing course. Des-
troyers drew aft very rapidly and passed abeam 1000-1500
yards. Estimated speed 20-25 knots.
2350 - Came right to 0150 (T) and dove to avoid detection.
2400 - Screws faded out on bearing 200° (T).

September 5, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 015° (T).
0036 - Surfaced. Resumed battery charge on starboard. Ahead two
thirds speed on port.
0200 - Changed course to 010° (T).
0340 - Secured battery charge.
0400 - Ahead two thirds speed on both engines.
0445 - Dove. Course 015° (T).
0549 - Sunrise.
0600 - Changed course to 344° (T) to close land to establish
position.
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-09-30 S., Long. 152-21-30 E.
1000 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 05-03-30 S., Long. 152-12-30 E. Changed
course to 190° (T). Visibility very poor vicinity CAPE
ORFORD.
1500 - Sighted smoke on horizon bearing 246° (T).
1510 - Changed course to 270° (T). Smoke identified as two-masted
ship, hull down.
1522 - Changed course to 342° (T) (normal approach). Two ships
on northerly course. (025° T.)
1550 - Changed course to 350° (T).
1600 - Ships zigged. (course 050° T.). Ships identified as medium
sized MARU and escorting destroyer. Own ship's speed 6-8
knots to close.

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14

— page 127 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-58-00 S., Long. 152-18-30 E. Patrol
vessel passed astern about 4500 yards, and finally dis-
appeared to southwest.
1220 - Changed course to 2700 (T).
1307 - Changed course to 215° (T).
1535 - Plane dropped three depth bombs on us - straddle very close
aft. Went to 110 feet and changed course to 135° (T). At
time of bombing, ship was at 50 feet, stopped, and lowering
No. 1 periscope after having just completed routine peris-
cope observation. No ships in sight and plane was not seen.
Had been cruising at 60 feet during day and making periscope
observations every 10-15 minutes. Sea flat calm, bright
sunlight day, excellent visibility.
Position of bombing: Lat. 05-05 S., Long. 152-24 Ε.
Damage: Engine Room - gauge glass on fuel measuring tank
broke; gauge glass on starboard circulating water pump
gauge broke. Motor Room - One steam light broke and motor
room hatch lifted slightly letting in a small amount of
water. After Battery - One light bulb broke.
1620 - Smoke observed from starboard main motor panel in engine
room. Stopped motor. Smoke was coming from starting
resistors.
1628 - Smoke observed from port main motor panel in engine room.
Stopped both motors. Source of smoke same as in starboard.
1645 - Smoke became so thick in engine room that personnel were
not able to remain in compartment. Rather than fill the
entire boat with smoke, sealed the engine room and
"balanced".
1758 - Sunset.
1800 - Sound picked up high speed screws of two ships bearing
010° (T). Propeller characteristics same as patrol vessel
sighted earlier in the day. They milled around for the
next hour and a half. Stopping, starting, occasionally
pinging, and alternately opening and closing range. Finally
faded out to northwest.
1939 - Went ahead on motors preparatory to surfacing. Motors
operated satisfactory. Had balanced continuously for three
hours, eleven minutes. Depth varied between 100-120 feet.
Controlled depth by minor changes of water in regulator
tank.
1944 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines, course
135° (T) to air out boat and inspect main motor panels.
2000 - Position. Lat. 05-08 S., Long. 152-28 E.
2020 - Slowed to two thirds speed on port and commenced battery
charge on starboard. No apparent damage to main motor
panels.

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16
J

— page 127 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-58-00 S., Long. 152-18-30 E. Patrol
vessel passed astern about 4500 yards, and finally dis-
appeared to southwest.
1220 - Changed course to 2700 (T).
1307 - Changed course to 215° (T).
1535 - Plane dropped three depth bombs on us - straddle very close
aft. Went to 110 feet and changed course to 135° (T). At
time of bombing, ship was at 50 feet, stopped, and lowering
No. 1 periscope after having just completed routine peris-
cope observation. No ships in sight and plane was not seen.
Had been cruising at 60 feet during day and making periscope
observations every 10-15 minutes. Sea flat calm, bright
sunlight day, excellent visibility.
Position of bombing: Lat. 05-05 S., Long. 152-24 E.
Damage: Engine Room - gauge glass on fuel measuring tank
broke; gauge glass on starboard circulating water pump
gauge broke. Motor Room - One steam light broke and motor
room hatch lifted slightly letting in a small amount of
water. After Battery - One light bulb broke.
1620 - Smoke observed from starboard main motor panel in engine
room. Stopped motor. Smoke was coming from starting
resistors.
1628 - Smoke observed from port main motor panel in engine room.
Stopped both motors. Source of smoke same as in starboard.
1645 - Smoke became so thick in engine room that personnel were
not able to remain in compartment. Rather than fill the
entire boat with smoke, sealed the engine room and
"balanced".
1758 - Sunset.
1800 - Sound picked up high speed screws of two ships bearing
010° (T). Propeller characteristics same as patrol vessel
sighted earlier in the day. They milled around for the
next hour and a half. Stopping, starting, occasionally
pinging, and alternately opening and closing range. Finally
faded out to northwest.
1939 - Went ahead on motors preparatory to surfacing. Motors
operated satisfactory. Had balanced continuously for three
hours, eleven minutes. Depth varied between 100-120 feet.
Controlled depth by minor changes of water in regulator
tank.
1944 - Surfaced. Ahead standard speed on both engines, course
135° (T) to air out boat and inspect main motor panels.
2000 - Position. Lat. 05-08 S., Long. 152-28 E.
2020 - Slowed to two thirds speed on port and commenced battery
charge on starboard. No apparent damage to main motor
panels.

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16
J

— page 128 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
2033 - Received Subs 42 NR 18 (052355) giving instructions to
STURGEON.
2048 - Received Subs 42 NR 20 (060851) giving information of
enemy and reporting todays sightings SOLOMONS and NEW GUINEA
AREAS.
2354 - Received Subs 42 NR 19 (060215) giving information pertain-
ing to GAUDALCANAL RADIO STATION.
2400 - Changed course to 030° (T) to close CAPE ST. GEORGE.

September 7, 1942

Underway as before. Base course 030° (T),
0305 - Completed battery charge and went ahead two thirds on port,
stopping starboard.
0430 - Changed course to 320° (T), standing up in ST. GEORGES
CHANNEL.
0443 - Dove.
0545 - Sunrise.
0600 - Changed course to 015° (T). Had been set considerable to
south during the night..
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-11 S.; Long. 153-04-30 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-59 S., Long. 153-07 E.
1750 - Changed course to 180° (T) to clear coast to water batteries
after surfacing.
1758 - Sunset.
1856 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on both engines while
watering batteries.
2000 - Position. Lat. 05-14 S., Long. 153-03 E. Changed course
to 190° (T)..
2030 - Completed watering batteries. Slowed to one third speed
on starboard and commenced battery charge on port.
2032 - Received Subs 42 NR 21 (070504) extending patrols of S-42,
S-47, S-45, and S-40 two days.
2043 - Received Subs 42 NR 22 (070945) reporting enemy sightings
today NEW GUINEA - SOLOMONS AREA.
2138 - Sighted moderate size MARU on port quarter, bearing 025°(T)
on parallel course, distant about 5000 yards. In dark part
of horizon. Checked setup and decided to fire by sound,
70° left gyro, 1100 starboard track.
2141 - Dove to 70 feet. Ship drew ahead in bearing until about
245° (relative) when she started fading. Finally faded
out on 250° relative at 2150.
2150 - Changed course to left to try to pick up.
2155 - Made ready to surface, but sound thought he heard screws
on 2700 (relative). Changed course to 190° (T). Screws
heard intermittently for next 20 minutes but not same as
MARU'S. Believed to be fish noises.

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17

— page 128 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
2033 - Received Subs 42 NR 18 (052355) giving instructions to
STURGEON.
2048 - Received Subs 42 NR 20 (060851) giving information of
enemy and reporting todays sightings SOLOMONS and NEW GUINEA
AREAS.
2354 - Received Subs 42 NR 19 (060215) giving information pertain-
ing to GAUDALCANAL RADIO STATION.
2400 - Changed course to 030° (T) to close CAPE ST. GEORGE.

September 7, 1942

Underway as before. Base course 030° (T),
0305 - Completed battery charge and went ahead two thirds on port,
stopping starboard.
0430 - Changed course to 320° (T), standing up in ST. GEORGES
CHANNEL.
0443 - Dove.
0545 - Sunrise.
0600 - Changed course to 015° (T). Had been set considerable to
south during the night..
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-11 S.; Long. 153-04-30 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-59 S., Long. 153-07 E.
1750 - Changed course to 180° (T) to clear coast to water batteries
after surfacing.
1758 - Sunset.
1856 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on both engines while
watering batteries.
2000 - Position. Lat. 05-14 S., Long. 153-03 E. Changed course
to 190° (T)..
2030 - Completed watering batteries. Slowed to one third speed
on starboard and commenced battery charge on port.
2032 - Received Subs 42 NR 21 (070504) extending patrols of S-42,
S-47, S-45, and S-40 two days.
2043 - Received Subs 42 NR 22 (070945) reporting enemy sightings
today NEW GUINEA - SOLOMONS AREA.
2138 - Sighted moderate size MARU on port quarter, bearing 025°(T)
on parallel course, distant about 5000 yards. In dark part
of horizon. Checked setup and decided to fire by sound,
70° left gyro, 1100 starboard track.
2141 - Dove to 70 feet. Ship drew ahead in bearing until about
245° (relative) when she started fading. Finally faded
out on 250° relative at 2150.
2150 - Changed course to left to try to pick up.
2155 - Made ready to surface, but sound thought he heard screws
on 2700 (relative). Changed course to 190° (T). Screws
heard intermittently for next 20 minutes but not same as
MARU'S. Believed to be fish noises.

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17

— page 130 —
CONFIDENTIAL
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
September 9, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 3300 (T).
0320 - Completed battery charge.
0330 - Changed course to 270° (T).
0440 - Changed course to 000° (т).
0445 - Dove, 13 miles bearing 1990 (T) from CAPE ST. GEORGE LIGHT.
During night visibility very poor. Sky overcast, frequent
heavy rain squalls and lightning.
0544 - Sunrise.
0725 - Changed course to 090° (T). Patrolling on east-west line
three miles south of CAPE ST. GEORGE LIGHT.
0800 - Position. Lat. 04-54 S., Long. 152-50 E.
0940 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-54-30 S., Long. 152-49 E.
1225 - Changed course to 090° (Τ).
1506 - Changed course to 135° (T).
1635 - Changed course to 135° (T)
1748 - Sunset.
1858 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on port, charging battery
on starboard. Frequent rain squalls during day. Visibi-
lity fair.
2000 - Position. Lat. 05-05 S., Long. 153-01 E.
2040 - Received Subs 42 NR 26 (090805) reporting change in naviga-
tional lights vicinity CAPE MORETON.
2052 - Slowed to one third speed on port.
2347 - Received Subs 42 NR 27 (091300) reporting prospective
enemy offensive GUADALCANAL.
2400 - Changed course to 3200 (T) to close CAPE ST. GEORGE.

September 10, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
0230 - Sighted two small dark objects a little on our port bow
(and close), on course 135° (T).
0231 - Dove and turned right. Objects appeared to be patrol boats.
Not making much speed. Passed very close. Visibility very
poor ahead - dark low clouds. Sea calm. They drew south-
east then came back and milled around for half hour, stop-
ping, starting, and occasionally pinging.
0256 - Screws faded out to southeast.
0320 - Surfaced on course 320° (T). Ahead two thirds speed on
starboard engine.
0443 - Dove. During night visibility very poor. Overcast, dark
clouds, frequent rain squalls.
0500 - Changed course to 3300 (T).
0544- Sunrise.

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19

— page 130 —
CONFIDENTIAL
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
September 9, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 3300 (T).
0320 - Completed battery charge.
0330 - Changed course to 270° (T).
0440 - Changed course to 000° (т).
0445 - Dove, 13 miles bearing 1990 (T) from CAPE ST. GEORGE LIGHT.
During night visibility very poor. Sky overcast, frequent
heavy rain squalls and lightning.
0544 - Sunrise.
0725 - Changed course to 090° (T). Patrolling on east-west line
three miles south of CAPE ST. GEORGE LIGHT.
0800 - Position. Lat. 04-54 S., Long. 152-50 E.
0940 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-54-30 S., Long. 152-49 E.
1225 - Changed course to 090° (Τ).
1506 - Changed course to 135° (T).
1635 - Changed course to 135° (T)
1748 - Sunset.
1858 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on port, charging battery
on starboard. Frequent rain squalls during day. Visibi-
lity fair.
2000 - Position. Lat. 05-05 S., Long. 153-01 E.
2040 - Received Subs 42 NR 26 (090805) reporting change in naviga-
tional lights vicinity CAPE MORETON.
2052 - Slowed to one third speed on port.
2347 - Received Subs 42 NR 27 (091300) reporting prospective
enemy offensive GUADALCANAL.
2400 - Changed course to 3200 (T) to close CAPE ST. GEORGE.

September 10, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 320° (T).
0230 - Sighted two small dark objects a little on our port bow
(and close), on course 135° (T).
0231 - Dove and turned right. Objects appeared to be patrol boats.
Not making much speed. Passed very close. Visibility very
poor ahead - dark low clouds. Sea calm. They drew south-
east then came back and milled around for half hour, stop-
ping, starting, and occasionally pinging.
0256 - Screws faded out to southeast.
0320 - Surfaced on course 320° (T). Ahead two thirds speed on
starboard engine.
0443 - Dove. During night visibility very poor. Overcast, dark
clouds, frequent rain squalls.
0500 - Changed course to 3300 (T).
0544- Sunrise.

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19

— page 131 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0600 - Changed course tó 0000 (T) to close CAPE ST. GEORGE.
0730 - Sighted two ships bearing 300° (T), distant about 5 miles
on southeasterly course. Appeared to be destroyers at
first look. Changed course to left to close..
0733 - On second look, they were identified as two patrol boats,
about 125 feet long. Changed course to 0300 (T) to avoid.
They drew aft and occasionally pinged. Appeared to be
patrolling and were making about 10 knots.
0755 - Patrol boats out of sight to southeast. Changed course
to 0000 (T).
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-11-30 S.; Long. 152-54-00 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-59-45 S., Long. 152-53-45 E.
1210 - Changed course to 045° (T). Patrolling east coast of CAPE
ST. GEORGE.
1642 - Changed course to 030° (T).
1745 - Sunset.
1816 - Changed course to 045° (T).
1830 - Changed course to 0900 (T) to clear coast in order to
renew liner on 3rd stage port main engine air compressor.
1847 - Surfaced. Went ahead two thirds speed on starboard.
1930 - Stopped, lying to charging battery on starboard engine.
15 miles cast of CAPE ST. GEORGE. Visibility fair to
good.
2000 - Position. Lat. 04-48-30 S., Long. 153-17-45 E.
2030 - Received Subs 42 NR 29 (100804) reporting enemy sightings
today in SOLOMONS.
2045 - Received Subs 42 NR 28 (100159) reporting return of S-43
and departure of SAILFISH and S-46.

September 11, 1942.
Underway as before. Lying to charging battery on star-
board engine.
0210 - Received Subs 42 NR 30 (101310) reporting enemy ship
locations and probable movements of enemy.
0220 - Received Subs 42 NR 31 (101315) reporting return of S-46
to base and cancellation of SAILFISH's departure.
0359 - Repairs completed on port engine. Ahead two thirds speed
on port. Course 060° (T).
0402 - Secured battery charge and went ahead two thirds speed on
both engines.
0446 - Dove.
0542 - Sunrise.
0600 - Changed course to 255° (T) to close CAPE ST. GEORGE.
0800 - Position. Lat. 04-55 S.; Long. 153-18 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-58 S., Long. 153-07 E.
1747 - Sunset.
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— page 131 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0600 - Changed course tó 000° (T) to close CAPE ST. GEORGE.
0730 - Sighted two ships bearing 300° (T), distant about 5 miles
on southeasterly course. Appeared to be destroyers at
first look. Changed course to left to close..
0733 - On second look, they were identified as two patrol boats,
about 125 feet long. Changed course to 030° (T) to avoid.
They drew aft and occasionally pinged. Appeared to be
patrolling and were making about 10 knots.
0755 - Patrol boats out of sight to southeast. Changed course
to 000° (T).
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-11-30 S.; Long. 152-54-00 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-59-45 S., Long. 152-53-45 E.
1210 - Changed course to 045° (T). Patrolling east coast of CAPE
ST. GEORGE.
1642 - Changed course to 030° (T).
1745 - Sunset.
1816 - Changed course to 045° (T).
1830 - Changed course to 090° (T) to clear coast in order to
renew liner on 3rd stage port main engine air compressor.
1847 - Surfaced. Went ahead two thirds speed on starboard.
1930 - Stopped, lying to charging battery on starboard engine.
15 miles cast of CAPE ST. GEORGE. Visibility fair to
good.
2000 - Position. Lat. 04-48-30 S., Long. 153-17-45 E.
2030 - Received Subs 42 NR 29 (100804) reporting enemy sightings
today in SOLOMONS.
2045 - Received Subs 42 NR 28 (100159) reporting return of S-43
and departure of SAILFISH and S-46.

September 11, 1942.
Underway as before. Lying to charging battery on star-
board engine.
0210 - Received Subs 42 NR 30 (101310) reporting enemy ship
locations and probable movements of enemy.
0220 - Received Subs 42 NR 31 (101315) reporting return of S-46
to base and cancellation of SAILFISH's departure.
0359 - Repairs completed on port engine. Ahead two thirds speed
on port. Course 060° (T).
0402 - Secured battery charge and went ahead two thirds speed on
both engines.
0446 - Dove.
0542 - Sunrise.
0600 - Changed course to 255° (T) to close CAPE ST. GEORGE.
0800 - Position. Lat. 04-55 S.; Long. 153-18 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 04-58 S., Long. 153-07 E.
1747 - Sunset.

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— page 133 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
2042-56 - Heard three distinct muffled explosions about 10-15
seconds apart.
2043 - Considerable difficulty in getting under - light forward
and only one shaft available. After securing battery
charge on starboard, it required about 8 minutes to engage
the tail clutch.
2046 - Heard a series of five heavy loud explosions of different
intensity, accompanied by many varied secondary noises.
Were grinding, tearing noises. Sounded as if own deck
and superstructure were being torn apart. Not very close.
Persisted for 2-3 minutes, then gradually faded out.
2049 - Changed course to 210° (T). Rudder had been amidships
since 2043. Ship had swung right from 045° (T) to 070°(T).
2050 - Slowed to normal parallel. No screws could be heard.
2111 - Commenced reload. Continued at 3 knots.
2116 - Changed course to 250° (T).
2120 - Changed course to 230° (T).
2125 - Changed course to 210° (T).
Sound picked up loud underwater disturbance bearing 040°(T)
(from direction cruiser last observed) - squawks, squeaks,
hisses, grunts, whistles, pings, sirens, etc - almost any
imaginable noise you could think of. Was on narrow band
(30-40) at first, but gradually widened to about 100 and
faded out in about 15 minutes. Described by sound operator
as "Good old-fashioned cat fight". Unlike any underwater
noises ever heard before.
2127 - Completed reload.
2148 - Changed course to 190° (T).
2159 - Surfaced about three miles from scene of action. No ships
in sight. Visibility 2-5 miles. Ahead standard on both
engines.
2209 - Changed course to 180° (T).
2230 - Changed course to 135° (T).
2300 - Slowed to two thirds speed on starboard and resumed battery
charge on port.
2319 - Received Subs 42 NR 34 (120810) reporting today's plano
sightings of enemy in SOLOMONS - NEW GUINEA AREA.
2330 - Received Subs 42 NR 35 (121247) reporting enemy sightings
SOLOMONS - NEW BRITAIN AREA.

September 13, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 135° (T).
0200 - Secured battery charge. Changed course to 135° (T). Stopped
starboard and went ahead two thirds speed on port.
0446 - Dove. Patrolling in southern part of area.
0500 - Changed course to 090° (T).
0545 - Sunrise.

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— page 133 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
2042-56 - Heard three distinct muffled explosions about 10-15
seconds apart.
2043 - Considerable difficulty in getting under - light forward
and only one shaft available. After securing battery
charge on starboard, it required about 8 minutes to engage
the tail clutch.
2046 - Heard a series of five heavy loud explosions of different
intensity, accompanied by many varied secondary noises.
Were grinding, tearing noises. Sounded as if own deck
and superstructure were being torn apart. Not very close.
Persisted for 2-3 minutes, then gradually faded out.
2049 - Changed course to 210° (T). Rudder had been amidships
since 2043. Ship had swung right from 045° (T) to 070°(T).
2050 - Slowed to normal parallel. No screws could be heard.
2111 - Commenced reload. Continued at 3 knots.
2116 - Changed course to 250° (T).
2120 - Changed course to 230° (T).
2125 - Changed course to 210° (T).
Sound picked up loud underwater disturbance bearing 040°(T)
(from direction cruiser last observed) - squawks, squeaks,
hisses, grunts, whistles, pings, sirens, etc - almost any
imaginable noise you could think of. Was on narrow band
(30-40) at first, but gradually widened to about 100 and
faded out in about 15 minutes. Described by sound operator
as "Good old-fashioned cat fight". Unlike any underwater
noises ever heard before.
2127 - Completed reload.
2148 - Changed course to 190° (T).
2159 - Surfaced about three miles from scene of action. No ships
in sight. Visibility 2-5 miles. Ahead standard on both
engines.
2209 - Changed course to 180° (T).
2230 - Changed course to 135° (T).
2300 - Slowed to two thirds speed on starboard and resumed battery
charge on port.
2319 - Received Subs 42 NR 34 (120810) reporting today's plano
sightings of enemy in SOLOMONS - NEW GUINEA AREA.
2330 - Received Subs 42 NR 35 (121247) reporting enemy sightings
SOLOMONS - NEW BRITAIN AREA.

September 13, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 135° (T).
0200 - Secured battery charge. Changed course to 135° (T). Stopped
starboard and went ahead two thirds speed on port.
0446 - Dove. Patrolling in southern part of area.
0500 - Changed course to 090° (T).
0545 - Sunrise.

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— page 134 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0600 - Changed course to 000° (T). Been set to south during
night.
0800 - Position. Lat. 06-24-00 S., Long. 152-53-00 E.
1000 - Changed course to 300° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 05-59-00 S., Long. 152-22-30 E.
1749 - Sunset.
1845 - Surfaced. Ahead one third speed on starboard, charging
battery on port.
2000 - Position. Lat, 06-07-30 S., Long. 152-17-30 E. Changed
course to 3200 (T)。
2040 - Received Subs 42 NR 36 (130830) reporting today's enemy
sightings NEW GUINEA - SOLOMONS AREA.

September 14, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 060° (T).
0245 - Completed battery charge. Ahead two thirds speed on port,
stopped starboard.
0400 - Changed course to 090° (T).
0443 - Submerged.
0544 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-38-30 S., Long. 152-44-00 E.
1000 - Changed course to 180° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 05-44-30 S., Long. 152-50-30 E.
1745 - Sunset. Changed course to 135° (T). Departed area for
Base.
1831 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on starboard, charging
battery on port.
2000 - Position. Lat. 06-44 S., Long. 152-55 E.
2038 - Received Subs 42 NR 37 (140921) reporting today's sightings
in SOLOMONS AREA.
2047 - Received Subs 42 NR 38 (140942) shifting patrol area of
STURGEON.

September 15, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 135° (T).
0130 - Completed battery charge. Ahead standard on both engines.
0449 - Dove.
0540 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 07-41 S.; Long. 153-48 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 07-49 S., Long. 153-57 E.
1740 - Sunset.
1832 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds on starboard, charging battery
on port.
2000 - Position. Lat. 08-26 S., Long. 154-37-30 E.

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23
ل

— page 134 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0600 - Changed course to 000° (T). Been set to south during
night.
0800 - Position. Lat. 06-24-00 S., Long. 152-53-00 E.
1000 - Changed course to 300° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 05-59-00 S., Long. 152-22-30 E.
1749 - Sunset.
1845 - Surfaced. Ahead one third speed on starboard, charging
battery on port.
2000 - Position. Lat, 06-07-30 S., Long. 152-17-30 E. Changed
course to 3200 (T)。
2040 - Received Subs 42 NR 36 (130830) reporting today's enemy
sightings NEW GUINEA - SOLOMONS AREA.

September 14, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 060° (T).
0245 - Completed battery charge. Ahead two thirds speed on port,
stopped starboard.
0400 - Changed course to 090° (T).
0443 - Submerged.
0544 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 05-38-30 S., Long. 152-44-00 E.
1000 - Changed course to 180° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 05-44-30 S., Long. 152-50-30 E.
1745 - Sunset. Changed course to 135° (T). Departed area for
Base.
1831 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds speed on starboard, charging
battery on port.
2000 - Position. Lat. 06-44 S., Long. 152-55 E.
2038 - Received Subs 42 NR 37 (140921) reporting today's sightings
in SOLOMONS AREA.
2047 - Received Subs 42 NR 38 (140942) shifting patrol area of
STURGEON.

September 15, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 135° (T).
0130 - Completed battery charge. Ahead standard on both engines.
0449 - Dove.
0540 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 07-41 S.; Long. 153-48 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 07-49 S., Long. 153-57 E.
1740 - Sunset.
1832 - Surfaced. Ahead two thirds on starboard, charging battery
on port.
2000 - Position. Lat. 08-26 S., Long. 154-37-30 E.

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ل

— page 136 —
S-E-C-R-TIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0554 - Surfaced. Ahead standard on both.
0800 - Position. Lat. 12-58-30 S., Long. 155-39-30 E. Changed
course to 185° (Τ).
1200 - Position. Lat. 13-18-00 S., Long. 155-39-00 E.
1645 - Stopped port engine to make repairs. Slowed to two thirds
speed on starboard.
1734 - Sunset.
2000 - Position. Lat. 14-34-30 S., Long. 155-30-00 E.

September 19, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 185° (T).
0029 - Moonset.
0030 - Repairs to port engine completed. Went ahead standard on
both.
0105 - Received Subs 42 NR 44 (181425) directing boats returning
from patrol to give results when sending ETA.
0531 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 16-16 S.; Long. 155-15-00 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 16-48 S., Long. 155-12-30 Е.
1735 - Sunset.
2000 - Position. Lat. 18-11 S., Long. 154-56-30 E. Changed
course to 1800 (Τ).
2043 - Received CSWP (190515) giving new scramble for recognition
signals.
2055 - Received Subs 42 NR 45 (191008) reporting enemy sightings
NEW GUINEA - NEW BRITAIN - SOLOMONS AREA.
2112 - Cleared message (190930) to VIS (SYDNEY) on 8470 Kcs. re-
porting this vessel's ETA "BUD".

September 20, 1942

Underway as before. Base course 180° (T).
0109 - Received Subs 43 NR 47 (191355) reporting this vessel's
ETA.
0124 - Moonset.
0125 - Received Subs 42 NR 46 (191355) reporting movements of
enemy ships and expected operations in NEW GUINEA -
SOLOMONS AREA.
0532 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 20-15 S., Long. 154-50 E.
1114 - Received Subs 42 NR 48 (200101) reporting movements of
S-38 and S-41 and routing of this vessel to Base.
1200 - Position. Lat. 20-46 S., Long. 154-50 E.
1300 - Changed course to 1840 (T).
1736 - Sunset.
2000 - Position. Lat. 22-07-30 S., Long. 154-49-00 E.
2316 - Received Subs 42 NR 49 (201231) giving patrol instructions
to SCULPIN.
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— page 136 —
S-E-C-R-TIAL
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0554 - Surfaced. Ahead standard on both.
0800 - Position. Lat. 12-58-30 S., Long. 155-39-30 E. Changed
course to 185° (Τ).
1200 - Position. Lat. 13-18-00 S., Long. 155-39-00 E.
1645 - Stopped port engine to make repairs. Slowed to two thirds
speed on starboard.
1734 - Sunset.
2000 - Position. Lat. 14-34-30 S., Long. 155-30-00 E.

September 19, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 185° (T).
0029 - Moonset.
0030 - Repairs to port engine completed. Went ahead standard on
both.
0105 - Received Subs 42 NR 44 (181425) directing boats returning
from patrol to give results when sending ETA.
0531 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 16-16 S.; Long. 155-15-00 E.
1200 - Position. Lat. 16-48 S., Long. 155-12-30 Е.
1735 - Sunset.
2000 - Position. Lat. 18-11 S., Long. 154-56-30 E. Changed
course to 1800 (Τ).
2043 - Received CSWP (190515) giving new scramble for recognition
signals.
2055 - Received Subs 42 NR 45 (191008) reporting enemy sightings
NEW GUINEA - NEW BRITAIN - SOLOMONS AREA.
2112 - Cleared message (190930) to VIS (SYDNEY) on 8470 Kcs. re-
porting this vessel's ETA "BUD".

September 20, 1942

Underway as before. Base course 180° (T).
0109 - Received Subs 43 NR 47 (191355) reporting this vessel's
ETA.
0124 - Moonset.
0125 - Received Subs 42 NR 46 (191355) reporting movements of
enemy ships and expected operations in NEW GUINEA -
SOLOMONS AREA.
0532 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 20-15 S., Long. 154-50 E.
1114 - Received Subs 42 NR 48 (200101) reporting movements of
S-38 and S-41 and routing of this vessel to Base.
1200 - Position. Lat. 20-46 S., Long. 154-50 E.
1300 - Changed course to 1840 (T).
1736 - Sunset.
2000 - Position. Lat. 22-07-30 S., Long. 154-49-00 E.
2316 - Received Subs 42 NR 49 (201231) giving patrol instructions
to SCULPIN.
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— page 137 —
CONFIDENTIAL
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47

NARRATIVE
September 21, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 184° (T).
0246 - Moonset.
0532 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 24-12 S., Long. 154-47 E. Changed
course to 1850 (Τ).
1200 - Position. Lat. 24-51 S., Long. 154-35 E.
1310 - Passed close to several wooden and cardboard boxes.
1737 - Sunset.
1900 - Changed course to 2180 (T) to a point 4 miles north of
point "VAN".
2000 - Position. Lat. 26-13 S., Long. 154-24 E.
2042 - Received Subs 42 NR 50 (210735) for S-46 and reporting
operations of allied destroyer.
2051 - Received Subs 42 NR 51 (210845) giving warning of possible
mine fields in BUKA PASSAGE and FAISI.

September 22, 1942.

Underway as before. Base course 2180 (T).
0100 - Ahead full speed on both.
0122 - Sighted CAPE MORETON LIGHT bearing 268° (T), distant
about 30 miles.
0300 - At point "VAN", standing in swept channel.
0545 - Exchanged recognition signals with P.W.S.S. CALOUNDRA HEAD
and received permission to proceed.
0600 - Entered MORETON BAY.
Moored alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN, NEW FARM WHARF, BRISBANE,
AUSTRALIA.

Total navigational miles this patrol: 4176.

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[HANDWRITTEN: 26]

— page 137 —
CONFIDENTIAL
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
September 21, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 184° (T).
0246 - Moonset.
0532 - Sunrise.
0800 - Position. Lat. 24-12 S., Long. 154-47 E. Changed
course to 1850 (Τ).
1200 - Position. Lat. 24-51 S., Long. 154-35 E.
1310 - Passed close to several wooden and cardboard boxes.
1737 - Sunset.
1900 - Changed course to 2180 (T) to a point 4 miles north of
point "VAN".
2000 - Position. Lat. 26-13 S., Long. 154-24 E.
2042 - Received Subs 42 NR 50 (210735) for S-46 and reporting
operations of allied destroyer.
2051 - Received Subs 42 NR 51 (210845) giving warning of possible
mine fields in BUKA PASSAGE and FAISI.

September 22, 1942.
Underway as before. Base course 2180 (T).
0100 - Ahead full speed on both.
0122 - Sighted CAPE MORETON LIGHT bearing 268° (T), distant
about 30 miles.
0300 - At point "VAN", standing in swept channel.
0545 - Exchanged recognition signals with P.W.S.S. CALOUNDRA HEAD
and received permission to proceed.
0600 - Entered MORETON BAY.
Moored alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN, NEW FARM WHARF, BRISBANE,
AUSTRALIA.
Total navigational miles this patrol: 4176.

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[HANDWRITTEN: 26]

— page 139 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
Description of ships sighted

September 5, 1942
At 1500. One merchant ship and escorting destroyer, zig-
zagging, standing up into ST. GEORGES CHANNEL. On course 025°(T)
at time of sighting. Later they changed course to 0500 (T), thon
0300 (T), and drew away on that course up into the channel.
Position: Lat. 05-36 S., Long. 152-15 E. Speed 11-12 knots.
Range at sighting about 20,000 yards.

Visibility good. Calm flat sea, clear day. Unable to close
for attack at 6-8 knots speed for over an hour. Smallest range
4300 yards. Escort vessel identified as TOMOZURO class torpedo
boat destroyer - single stack, three small guns (all were elevated
at high angle), break deck. MARU was medium sized freighter
(about 4500 gross tons) - MORIOKA MARU type. Single stack,
straight bow, counter stern, split superstructure, two stick masts
with booms on forward mast.

September 6, 1942
At 0210. One small torpedo boat destroyer - TOMOZURO class-
on course 0150 (T), speed 20-25 knots. Position: Lat. 05-22 S.,
Long. 152-16 E. - about 10 miles northeast of CAPE ORFORD. Range
at sighting 1500-2000 yards. Visibility very poor - overcast and
raining. Got by before we could get tubes ready and gyros set.
Came out of rain squall on port quarter on converging course.

At 1133. Patrol vessel on course 190° (T). Speed 5-10 knots.
Range at sighting - 5 miles. Position: Lat. 04-57 S., Long.
152-20 E. - southwestern part of ST. GEORGES CHANNEL. Vessel was
patrolling - occasionally slowing and pinging. Changed course to
avoid. Passed astern about 4500 yards. Did not contact us. Was
about 100 feet in length, apparently a converted trawler. Same
type as sighted off RABAUL on previous patrols. High spoon bow
and high spoon stern. High rectangular bridge and low superstruc-
ture. Well decks forward of bridge and aft of superstructure. Two
stick masts (in well decks), single stack. Small gun (about 3")
mounted on bow and depth charges aft.

September 7, 1942
At 2138. Moderate sized MARU on course 1900 (T), speed 10-12
knots, zig-zagging. Range at sighting about 5000 yards. Position:
Lat. 05-24 S., Long. 153-01-30 E. - about 35 miles south of CAPE
ST. GEORGE. Was on same course as this vessel. Picked up a little
on port quarter in dark part of horizon. This vessel in light part,
and decided for sound shot. Three minutes later dove and picked

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— page 139 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
Description of ships sighted

September 5, 1942
At 1500. One merchant ship and escorting destroyer, zig-
zagging, standing up into ST. GEORGES CHANNEL. On course 025°(T)
at time of sighting. Later they changed course to 0500 (T), thon
0300 (T), and drew away on that course up into the channel.
Position: Lat. 05-36 S., Long. 152-15 E. Speed 11-12 knots.
Range at sighting about 20,000 yards.

Visibility good. Calm flat sea, clear day. Unable to close
for attack at 6-8 knots speed for over an hour. Smallest range
4300 yards. Escort vessel identified as TOMOZURO class torpedo
boat destroyer - single stack, three small guns (all were elevated
at high angle), break deck. MARU was medium sized freighter
(about 4500 gross tons) - MORIOKA MARU type. Single stack,
straight bow, counter stern, split superstructure, two stick masts
with booms on forward mast.

September 6, 1942
At 0210. One small torpedo boat destroyer - TOMOZURO class-
on course 0150 (T), speed 20-25 knots. Position: Lat. 05-22 S.,
Long. 152-16 E. - about 10 miles northeast of CAPE ORFORD. Range
at sighting 1500-2000 yards. Visibility very poor - overcast and
raining. Got by before we could get tubes ready and gyros set.
Came out of rain squall on port quarter on converging course.

At 1133. Patrol vessel on course 190° (T). Speed 5-10 knots.
Range at sighting - 5 miles. Position: Lat. 04-57 S., Long.
152-20 E. - southwestern part of ST. GEORGES CHANNEL. Vessel was
patrolling - occasionally slowing and pinging. Changed course to
avoid. Passed astern about 4500 yards. Did not contact us. Was
about 100 feet in length, apparently a converted trawler. Same
type as sighted off RABAUL on previous patrols. High spoon bow
and high spoon stern. High rectangular bridge and low superstruc-
ture. Well decks forward of bridge and aft of superstructure. Two
stick masts (in well decks), single stack. Small gun (about 3")
mounted on bow and depth charges aft.

September 7, 1942
At 2138. Moderate sized MARU on course 1900 (T), speed 10-12
knots, zig-zagging. Range at sighting about 5000 yards. Position:
Lat. 05-24 S., Long. 153-01-30 E. - about 35 miles south of CAPE
ST. GEORGE. Was on same course as this vessel. Picked up a little
on port quarter in dark part of horizon. This vessel in light part,
and decided for sound shot. Three minutes later dove and picked

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— page 140 —
.
.
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
Description of ships sighted.
up target immediately. She drew ahead nicely until about 15 de-
grees before reaching firing bearing, when she zigged away and
faded out. Turned left to pick up, but unable to locate her. Made
ready to surface, but sound reported screws forward of port beam.
Continued to hear them for next 20 minutes. Believed to have been
fish noises. Surfaced at 2220. No ships in sight. Estimated
about 6000-7000 gross tons. Did not get a good look at her sil-
houette as she was bows on when sighted.

September 8, 1942.
-
At 1002. TOMOZURO class torpedo boat destroyer on course
3200 (T), speed 20 knots. Range at sighting - 5 miles. Position:
Lat, 04-47-30 S., Long. 152-45 E. - in ST. GEORGES CHANNEL, about
8 miles northwest of the cape. Was picked up a little on star-
board quarter on parallel course. When she was broad on star-
board quarter, she zigged away about 400 and drew away rapidly to
north. Range too great for attack.

At 1210. Same class destroyer as above on course 2900(T),
range about 6 miles, 14 miles west of CAPE ST. GEORGE. Range too
great for an attack. Picked up broad on starboard bow and drew
away rapidly to west. Speed 20-25 knots.

September 10, 1942.

At 0230. Two patrol vessels on course 140° (T), speed 0-10
knots, about 30 miles south of CAPE ST. GEORGE. Were in line of
bearing and apparently patrolling. Wore sighted almost dead ahead,
range about 1000 yards. Dove immediately and turned away to avoid.
They drew southeast, then came back amd milled around for about
one half hour, stopping, starting, and occasionally pinging. Visi-
bility very poor. Dark low clouds on horizon. Surfaced at 0320
and resumed patrol. Nothing in sight. Boats were low in water
and had sharp lines.

At 0730. Two patrol vessels bearing 300° (T), range about
5 miles, on course about 120° (T), speed about 10 knots: About
25 miles south of CAPE ST. GEORGE. Own course 0000 (T). Appeared
to be small destroyers at first and we turned to close. When
identified, we turned away to avoid. Believed to be same two
boats sighted at 0230. Both about 125 feet in length and the
first of this type patrol vessel seen in these areas. They drew
southeast, passed astern about 4000 yards, and finally disappeared.
One of them had rather high long clipper bow, sloping deck aft,
cruiser stern. Single gun (about 3") mounted forward (elevated
at high angle). Rather high rectangular bridge, single signal
-27-
29

— page 140 —
.
.
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
Description of ships sighted.
up target immediately. She drew ahead nicely until about 15 de-
grees before reaching firing bearing, when she zigged away and
faded out. Turned left to pick up, but unable to locate her. Made
ready to surface, but sound reported screws forward of port beam.
Continued to hear them for next 20 minutes. Believed to have been
fish noises. Surfaced at 2220. No ships in sight. Estimated
about 6000-7000 gross tons. Did not get a good look at her sil-
houette as she was bows on when sighted.

September 8, 1942.
-
At 1002. TOMOZURO class torpedo boat destroyer on course
3200 (T), speed 20 knots. Range at sighting - 5 miles. Position:
Lat, 04-47-30 S., Long. 152-45 E. - in ST. GEORGES CHANNEL, about
8 miles northwest of the cape. Was picked up a little on star-
board quarter on parallel course. When she was broad on star-
board quarter, she zigged away about 400 and drew away rapidly to
north. Range too great for attack.

At 1210. Same class destroyer as above on course 2900(T),
range about 6 miles, 14 miles west of CAPE ST. GEORGE. Range too
great for an attack. Picked up broad on starboard bow and drew
away rapidly to west. Speed 20-25 knots.

September 10, 1942.

At 0230. Two patrol vessels on course 140° (T), speed 0-10
knots, about 30 miles south of CAPE ST. GEORGE. Were in line of
bearing and apparently patrolling. Wore sighted almost dead ahead,
range about 1000 yards. Dove immediately and turned away to avoid.
They drew southeast, then came back amd milled around for about
one half hour, stopping, starting, and occasionally pinging. Visi-
bility very poor. Dark low clouds on horizon. Surfaced at 0320
and resumed patrol. Nothing in sight. Boats were low in water
and had sharp lines.

At 0730. Two patrol vessels bearing 300° (T), range about
5 miles, on course about 120° (T), speed about 10 knots: About
25 miles south of CAPE ST. GEORGE. Own course 0000 (T). Appeared
to be small destroyers at first and we turned to close. When
identified, we turned away to avoid. Believed to be same two
boats sighted at 0230. Both about 125 feet in length and the
first of this type patrol vessel seen in these areas. They drew
southeast, passed astern about 4000 yards, and finally disappeared.
One of them had rather high long clipper bow, sloping deck aft,
cruiser stern. Single gun (about 3") mounted forward (elevated
at high angle). Rather high rectangular bridge, single signal
-27-
29

— page 142 —
CONSENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
Details of Action.
Firing range 900-1000 yards. First torpedo fired to hit bow
of target. Gyro angles zero on all torpedoes. All torpedoes set
for six feet.
After firing first torpedo, the cruiser was observed to be
changing course to left, decreasing torpedo track angles. When
last torpedo was fired, the track angle had decreased to about
110°-120° port. Either we had been sighted, or the cruiser was
making a zig. During the entire action this vessel was between
cruiser and land, making detection difficult. After firing last
torpedo, turned away at high speed and dove to 90 feet. On way
down (52 seconds after firing of first torpedo) heard three dis-
tinct muffled explosions, 10-15 seconds apart. At 2046 heard a
series of five heavy loud explosions of different intensity,
accompanied by many varied secondary noises. They were grinding,
tearing noises. Sounded as if own deck and superstructure were
being torn apart. Not very close. Persisted for 2-3 minutes,
then gradually faded out.
At 2049, changed course to 2100 (T) and slowed to 3 knots
to listen. Previous course 045°-070° (T). No screws could be
picked up. Continued at 3 knots. At 2125 sound picked up loud
disturbance bearing 040° (T) (from direction cruiser last ob-
served) - squeaks, squawks, groans, hissos, grunts, whistle,
pings, sirens, etc., about any imagineable noise you could think
of was heard. Pitch would rise and fall. Was on narrow band at
first (3°-4°), but gradually widened to about 10°, and faded out
in about 15 minutes. Unlike any underwater noises ever heard
before. Believed to have been cruiser sinking. At 2159 surfaced
about three miles from scene of action, but no sign of cruiser.
Visibility 2-5 miles - best to north. All torpedoes ran hot,
straight and normal. The wakes of the torpedoes were bery visi-
ble and luminous. While hatch was being closed, heard cruiser's
whistle. From brief time target was observed, it is believed that
it was a Japanese KAKO class heavy cruiser.
-
Enemy Anti-Submarine Measures
Believed daily plane patrol over areas. Increased patrol
boat activity observed in ST. GEORGES CHANNEL over previous pat-
rols. Apparently operate in pairs, searching in line of bearing
along used shipping routes. They patrol at slow speed, frequent-
ly stopping and occasionally pinging. Not very efficient in
picking you up by sound unless they sight you.
-29-
31
Γ

— page 142 —
CONSENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
Details of Action.
Firing range 900-1000 yards. First torpedo fired to hit bow
of target. Gyro angles zero on all torpedoes. All torpedoes set
for six feet.
After firing first torpedo, the cruiser was observed to be
changing course to left, decreasing torpedo track angles. When
last torpedo was fired, the track angle had decreased to about
110°-120° port. Either we had been sighted, or the cruiser was
making a zig. During the entire action this vessel was between
cruiser and land, making detection difficult. After firing last
torpedo, turned away at high speed and dove to 90 feet. On way
down (52 seconds after firing of first torpedo) heard three dis-
tinct muffled explosions, 10-15 seconds apart. At 2046 heard a
series of five heavy loud explosions of different intensity,
accompanied by many varied secondary noises. They were grinding,
tearing noises. Sounded as if own deck and superstructure were
being torn apart. Not very close. Persisted for 2-3 minutes,
then gradually faded out.
At 2049, changed course to 2100 (T) and slowed to 3 knots
to listen. Previous course 045°-070° (T). No screws could be
picked up. Continued at 3 knots. At 2125 sound picked up loud
disturbance bearing 040° (T) (from direction cruiser last ob-
served) - squeaks, squawks, groans, hissos, grunts, whistle,
pings, sirens, etc., about any imagineable noise you could think
of was heard. Pitch would rise and fall. Was on narrow band at
first (3°-4°), but gradually widened to about 10°, and faded out
in about 15 minutes. Unlike any underwater noises ever heard
before. Believed to have been cruiser sinking. At 2159 surfaced
about three miles from scene of action, but no sign of cruiser.
Visibility 2-5 miles - best to north. All torpedoes ran hot,
straight and normal. The wakes of the torpedoes were bery visi-
ble and luminous. While hatch was being closed, heard cruiser's
whistle. From brief time target was observed, it is believed that
it was a Japanese KAKO class heavy cruiser.
-
Enemy Anti-Submarine Measures
Believed daily plane patrol over areas. Increased patrol
boat activity observed in ST. GEORGES CHANNEL over previous pat-
rols. Apparently operate in pairs, searching in line of bearing
along used shipping routes. They patrol at slow speed, frequent-
ly stopping and occasionally pinging. Not very efficient in
picking you up by sound unless they sight you.
-29-
31
Γ

— page 143 —
S-E-C-R-E-
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
Matorial Defects Experienced

July 28, 1942
At 1300, upon rigging for diving, it was found that No. 2
main ballast tank blow valve was stuck open. Investigation ro-
vealed a bent valve stem. Upon surfacing, the valve was removed
and a new valve stem manufactured and installed. Repairs comple-
ted 0800, July 29, 1942.

July 28 to August 1, 1942 (TANKS)
Just prior to departure for War Patrol No.3, oil was noted
in the main drain. This was believed to be normal, incident to
fueling Nos.1 and 4 main ballast tanks, and no concern was felt.
However, upon proceeding down the river, a pronounced oil slick
was left in this vessel's wake. Upon making test dive in MORETON
BAY, a large oil slick was noticed. After surfacing and pumping
up (including main drain) oil was again present in the main drain
after reflooding. It was thought that this would clear up after
a few dives. On the dive on July 29th, a slight amount of pres-
sure built up in the fuel tanks and in the ballast tanks carrying
fuel. However, on subsequent dives pressure increased in these
tanks until on the dive on August 1, 1942, full sea pressure was
on all tanks carrying fuel. Fuel continued to be present in the
main drain, and this vessel left a pronounced oil slick. When
No.1 main ballast tank went dry of fuel on August 1, 1942, it was
decided to return to the Base as there was no method to accurate-
ly check the amount of fuel on board. Upon departure from BRIS-
BANE, this vessel was fueled to emergency capacity (about 33000
gallons). The after fuel group went dry on July 31. No.1 main
ballast tank went dry of fuel on August 1, No.4 main ballast tank
went dry on August 4. After return to Base, only 6420 gallons
remained on board, showing a fuel consumption of 26,580 gallons
for eight days steaming (normal consumption 1000-1200 gallons
per day).

Investigation to determine the fuel loss showed the follow-
ing conditions:

(a) Several rivets missing in the bottom of No.5 fuel
tank to the main drain.
(b) Several bad rivets in No.6 fuel tank to the main drain.
(c) No.8 fuel oil tank sea valve leaking. (valve disc
and seat badly pitted).
(d) The old kingston wells to No.8 fuel oil tank full of
fuel, which had seeped through leaky rivets.
(e) Several leaks in main drain.

-30-
22

— page 143 —
S-E-C-R-E-
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
Matorial Defects Experienced

July 28, 1942
At 1300, upon rigging for diving, it was found that No. 2
main ballast tank blow valve was stuck open. Investigation ro-
vealed a bent valve stem. Upon surfacing, the valve was removed
and a new valve stem manufactured and installed. Repairs comple-
ted 0800, July 29, 1942.

July 28 to August 1, 1942 (TANKS)
Just prior to departure for War Patrol No.3, oil was noted
in the main drain. This was believed to be normal, incident to
fueling Nos.1 and 4 main ballast tanks, and no concern was felt.
However, upon proceeding down the river, a pronounced oil slick
was left in this vessel's wake. Upon making test dive in MORETON
BAY, a large oil slick was noticed. After surfacing and pumping
up (including main drain) oil was again present in the main drain
after reflooding. It was thought that this would clear up after
a few dives. On the dive on July 29th, a slight amount of pres-
sure built up in the fuel tanks and in the ballast tanks carrying
fuel. However, on subsequent dives pressure increased in these
tanks until on the dive on August 1, 1942, full sea pressure was
on all tanks carrying fuel. Fuel continued to be present in the
main drain, and this vessel left a pronounced oil slick. When
No.1 main ballast tank went dry of fuel on August 1, 1942, it was
decided to return to the Base as there was no method to accurate-
ly check the amount of fuel on board. Upon departure from BRIS-
BANE, this vessel was fueled to emergency capacity (about 33000
gallons). The after fuel group went dry on July 31. No.1 main
ballast tank went dry of fuel on August 1, No.4 main ballast tank
went dry on August 4. After return to Base, only 6420 gallons
remained on board, showing a fuel consumption of 26,580 gallons
for eight days steaming (normal consumption 1000-1200 gallons
per day).

Investigation to determine the fuel loss showed the follow-
ing conditions:

(a) Several rivets missing in the bottom of No.5 fuel
tank to the main drain.
(b) Several bad rivets in No.6 fuel tank to the main drain.
(c) No.8 fuel oil tank sea valve leaking. (valve disc
and seat badly pitted).
(d) The old kingston wells to No.8 fuel oil tank full of
fuel, which had seeped through leaky rivets.
(e) Several leaks in main drain.

-30-
22

— page 144 —
S-E-C-R-E-TENTAL
U.S.S. S-47
(f) Drain valves on Nos.1 and 4 main ballast tanks
leaking.
(g) Main ballast tank check valves in outside salvage
line in bad condition, allowing fuel from No.1 and
No.4 main ballast tanks to run over into No.2 and
No.3 main ballast tanks.

The above unsatisfactory conditions were corrected during
drydocking period.

August 25, 1942.

Full ground developed in field circuit of starboare main
motor. Checked all circuits and trouble was traced to panel in
engine room. When scroen covering panel was removed, the ground
disappeared. No further trouble experienced. Probably a metál
contact between the screon and cable terminal which jarred loose
when screon was removed.

September 1, 1942.

While charging air on starboard C&R air compressor, exces-
sive vibration developed in 1st stage end. Inspection revealed
that the web of the 3rd stage crank was broken. No spare crank-
shaft on board. Compressor out of commission until return to
base.

September 4, 1942

Forward spring bearing on starboard line shaft wiped. Bear-
ing removed, spotted in and replaced.

September 6, 1942

At 1615, whilo submerged, shortly after being depth bombed
by enemy plane, smoke was observed in engine room. It was traced
to starboard main motor panel (starting resistors). Motor was
secured at 1617, but smoke continued for some time.

Port main motor panel was then observed to be smoking, and
this motor was secured at 1628. The smoke became so bad that
both engine room doors had to be closed. After the smoke had
cleared and the resistors cooled, an inspection was made, but no
trouble could be located, nor was there evidence of any damage.
No ground showed up on ground lights at any time. The trouble
was probably caused by solenoids sticking, upon starting the
motors, causing the starting resistors to stay in. The motors
wore started at 1929 and operated normally.

-31-

33

— page 144 —
S-E-C-R-E-TENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
(f) Drain valves on Nos.1 and 4 main ballast tanks
leaking.
(g) Main ballast tank check valves in outside salvage
line in bad condition, allowing fuel from No.1 and
No.4 main ballast tanks to run over into No.2 and
No.3 main ballast tanks.

The above unsatisfactory conditions were corrected during
drydocking period.

August 25, 1942.

Full ground developed in field circuit of starboare main
motor. Checked all circuits and trouble was traced to panel in
engine room. When scroen covering panel was removed, the ground
disappeared. No further trouble experienced. Probably a metál
contact between the screon and cable terminal which jarred loose
when screon was removed.

September 1, 1942.

While charging air on starboard C&R air compressor, exces-
sive vibration developed in 1st stage end. Inspection revealed
that the web of the 3rd stage crank was broken. No spare crank-
shaft on board. Compressor out of commission until return to
base.

September 4, 1942

Forward spring bearing on starboard line shaft wiped. Bear-
ing removed, spotted in and replaced.

September 6, 1942

At 1615, whilo submerged, shortly after being depth bombed
by enemy plane, smoke was observed in engine room. It was traced
to starboard main motor panel (starting resistors). Motor was
secured at 1617, but smoke continued for some time.

Port main motor panel was then observed to be smoking, and
this motor was secured at 1628. The smoke became so bad that
both engine room doors had to be closed. After the smoke had
cleared and the resistors cooled, an inspection was made, but no
trouble could be located, nor was there evidence of any damage.
No ground showed up on ground lights at any time. The trouble
was probably caused by solenoids sticking, upon starting the
motors, causing the starting resistors to stay in. The motors
wore started at 1929 and operated normally.

-31-

33

— page 145 —
S-E-C-R-E-T.
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
September 10, 1942.
Port C&R air compressor out of commission because of worn
clutch shoes. Removed shoes from starboard clutch and installed
in port. This clutch was in good condition upon start of patrol.
Corks obtained locally in BRISBANE are of poor quality and wear
out rapidly.

September 11, 1942.
Port engine air compressor failed to build up required stage
pressures. Examination revealed scored 3rd stage liner and bro-
kon rings. Renewed liner and rings in 3rd stage.

September 12, 1942.
At 2038, when battery charge was secured, upon sighting of
enemy cruiser, it required about eight minutes to engage tail
clutch. One shaft in commission greatly curtailed the maneuver-
ability of vessel during approach phase and diving thereafter.
The trouble was found to be in the band of shaft brake, which had
worn out, preventing stopping of shaft to engage clutch. During
the remainder of the patrol, all battery charges were made on
port engine..

September 16, 1942
Shortly after diving, the Talk-Bak went out of commission.
Burned out transformer. No spare on board..

September 18, 1942
When bow planes were tested at 0400, they would rig out on
about one third, and then jam. Trouble mechanical. Made all
dives thereafter without services of bow planes. Had not been
operating properly since September 10th.

September 19, 1942
At 1645 stopped port engine to locate trouble in engine air
compressor. Found broken 3rd stage piston rings. Rings renewed
and engine back in commission 0030, September 19, 1942.

General Comments
The main engines have over 2100 hours operation since last
overhaul. Carbon sparks from engine exhausts were frequently
noticeable during this patrol. Also, lub. oil consumption was
higher than on previous patrols.

-32-
34

— page 145 —
S-E-C-R-E-T.
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
September 10, 1942.
Port C&R air compressor out of commission because of worn
clutch shoes. Removed shoes from starboard clutch and installed
in port. This clutch was in good condition upon start of patrol.
Corks obtained locally in BRISBANE are of poor quality and wear
out rapidly.

September 11, 1942.
Port engine air compressor failed to build up required stage
pressures. Examination revealed scored 3rd stage liner and bro-
kon rings. Renewed liner and rings in 3rd stage.

September 12, 1942.
At 2038, when battery charge was secured, upon sighting of
enemy cruiser, it required about eight minutes to engage tail
clutch. One shaft in commission greatly curtailed the maneuver-
ability of vessel during approach phase and diving thereafter.
The trouble was found to be in the band of shaft brake, which had
worn out, preventing stopping of shaft to engage clutch. During
the remainder of the patrol, all battery charges were made on
port engine..

September 16, 1942
Shortly after diving, the Talk-Bak went out of commission.
Burned out transformer. No spare on board..

September 18, 1942
When bow planes were tested at 0400, they would rig out on
about one third, and then jam. Trouble mechanical. Made all
dives thereafter without services of bow planes. Had not been
operating properly since September 10th.

September 19, 1942
At 1645 stopped port engine to locate trouble in engine air
compressor. Found broken 3rd stage piston rings. Rings renewed
and engine back in commission 0030, September 19, 1942.

General Comments
The main engines have over 2100 hours operation since last
overhaul. Carbon sparks from engine exhausts were frequently
noticeable during this patrol. Also, lub. oil consumption was
higher than on previous patrols.

-32-
34

— page 146 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
General Comments.
Communications were good. The broadcasts (44.8 Kcs.) from
BELCONNEN faded out at a depth of 41 feet, using the loop antenna.

Health of crew was good except usual cases of heat rash and
prickly heat. One man had the end of his left little finger
snipped off (Septembor 17) when part of C&R air compressor dropped
on it. Dressed finger and put man on light duty.

The habitability of the boat was fair, as long as were able
to circulate air through outside hull ventilation piping. Comple-
tion of air conditioning is urgently recommended during next
period alongside tender.

Food was good, plentiful and wholesome. Normal spoilage.

Sound frequently reported noises in water which were similar
to propellers and pings. They were more common at morning and
ovening twilight. The scrow noises are believed to bo fish
noises. The pings were from birds diving for fish and striking
water.

Water rationing was rather severe and necessary because of
unreliable evaporators - low capacity and most of the water dis-
tilled was not potable. The shower was not opened from August 27
to September 22. Only in exceptional casos was water allowed for
baths. A period of 26 days without a bath is not particularly
healthful. It is recommended that installation of reliable eva-
porators be rushed to earliest completion.

The morale of the crew was high, particularly after scoring
three torpedo hits on the Jap cruiser. It was the third patrol
for most of the crew on this vessel and on previous patrols we
had been on the receiving end.

The main storage battery was sluggish, requiring about one
hour longer to recharge than on previous patrol. It is recommend-
ed that facilities be made available in order that the batteries
may be cycled during periods alongside the tender.

Sound conditions were either poorer or the set was not
operating properly. Maximum range this patrol - 6000-7000 yards.
Previous patrol - 8000-9000 yards.

High pressure air continues to be a serious problem during
the patrols. Only one C&R air compressor was in operation - the
other had broken crankshaft. The one in operation would charge
ohly to 1500 lbs, prossure and required three to four times the
normal hours of operation to do this. It broke down froquently
and was in almost continuous state of repair.

-33-

35

— page 146 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. S-47
General Comments.
Communications were good. The broadcasts (44.8 Kcs.) from
BELCONNEN faded out at a depth of 41 feet, using the loop antenna.

Health of crew was good except usual cases of heat rash and
prickly heat. One man had the end of his left little finger
snipped off (Septembor 17) when part of C&R air compressor dropped
on it. Dressed finger and put man on light duty.

The habitability of the boat was fair, as long as were able
to circulate air through outside hull ventilation piping. Comple-
tion of air conditioning is urgently recommended during next
period alongside tender.

Food was good, plentiful and wholesome. Normal spoilage.

Sound frequently reported noises in water which were similar
to propellers and pings. They were more common at morning and
ovening twilight. The scrow noises are believed to bo fish
noises. The pings were from birds diving for fish and striking
water.

Water rationing was rather severe and necessary because of
unreliable evaporators - low capacity and most of the water dis-
tilled was not potable. The shower was not opened from August 27
to September 22. Only in exceptional casos was water allowed for
baths. A period of 26 days without a bath is not particularly
healthful. It is recommended that installation of reliable eva-
porators be rushed to earliest completion.

The morale of the crew was high, particularly after scoring
three torpedo hits on the Jap cruiser. It was the third patrol
for most of the crew on this vessel and on previous patrols we
had been on the receiving end.

The main storage battery was sluggish, requiring about one
hour longer to recharge than on previous patrol. It is recommend-
ed that facilities be made available in order that the batteries
may be cycled during periods alongside the tender.

Sound conditions were either poorer or the set was not
operating properly. Maximum range this patrol - 6000-7000 yards.
Previous patrol - 8000-9000 yards.

High pressure air continues to be a serious problem during
the patrols. Only one C&R air compressor was in operation - the
other had broken crankshaft. The one in operation would charge
ohly to 1500 lbs, prossure and required three to four times the
normal hours of operation to do this. It broke down froquently
and was in almost continuous state of repair.

-33-

35

— page 148 —
A16-3
Serial 00351
Reg. No...0.1989
R.S. No. 10 01348
SOUTHWEST PACIFIC FORCE
COCFIDENTIAL
COSIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
Comtaskfor-42 Secret ltr.
FC5-5/A16-3/01/Hr
Serial 0073 of 9-25-42.
From:
To:
Subject:
September 29, 1942.
The Commander Southwest Pacific Force.
The Commander in Chief, U.S. Fleet.
U.S.S. S-47 - Report of Third War Patrol -
July 28 to September 22, 1942.
1.
Forwarded.
2.
Commander Southwest Pacific Force has
awarded the Silver Star Medal to Lieutenant Commander
James W. Davis, U.S. Navy, Commanding Officer U.S.S. S-47,
for sinking an enemy heavy cruiser on subject patrol.
[SIGNATURE: Cary Jones]
J. CARY JONES,
Chief of Staff.
[STAMP: FILMED]
[STAMP: CLASSIFICATION THIS CORRESPONDENCE
CHANGED TO Confidential
AUTHORITY FOS
DATE.. 10/20/47]
[STAMP: FILMED]
[STAMP: COMMANDER IN CHIEF
U.S. FLEET
RECEIVED
1942 OCT 20 16 37]

— page 148 —
A16-3
Serial 00351
Reg. No...0.1989
R.S. No. 10 01348
SOUTHWEST PACIFIC FORCE
COCFIDENTIAL
COSIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
Comtaskfor-42 Secret ltr.
FC5-5/A16-3/01/Hr
Serial 0073 of 9-25-42.
From:
To:
Subject:
September 29, 1942.
The Commander Southwest Pacific Force.
The Commander in Chief, U.S. Fleet.
U.S.S. S-47 - Report of Third War Patrol -
July 28 to September 22, 1942.
1.
Forwarded.
2.
Commander Southwest Pacific Force has
awarded the Silver Star Medal to Lieutenant Commander
James W. Davis, U.S. Navy, Commanding Officer U.S.S. S-47,
for sinking an enemy heavy cruiser on subject patrol.
[SIGNATURE: Cary Jones]
J. CARY JONES,
Chief of Staff.
[STAMP: FILMED]
[STAMP: CLASSIFICATION THIS CORRESPONDENCE
CHANGED TO Confidential
AUTHORITY FOS
DATE.. 10/20/47]
[STAMP: FILMED]
[STAMP: COMMANDER IN CHIEF
U.S. FLEET
RECEIVED
1942 OCT 20 16 37]

— page 149 —
1st copy
A16-3
S-E-C-R-E-T
[STAMP: CANCELLED
DECLASSIFIED]
From:
To
Via:
TASK FORCE FORTY-TWO,
c/o Flect Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
November 30, 1942.
1 0261
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.16
BY OP095A DATE 1/13/22]
The Commander Tesk Force FORTY-TWO.
The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Fleet.
The Commander South Pacific Force.
Subject:
U.S.S. S-47 (SS158) - Report of Fourth War Patrol -
October 20, 1942 to November 17, 1942.
Enclosure:
(A) Subject report.
1.
enclosure (A).
The subject report is forwarded herewith as
2.
This patrol was conducted in the crea west of
the enemy bases at FAISI-BUIN, SOLOMONS ISLANDS.
3.
Detailed discussion of the night surface attack
made on November 2, 1942, discloses that, while hazy overcast
weather prevented a clear picture of the ship attacked, the
Commanding Officer is sure she was a man-of-wer similer to a
LAKO or TONE CLASS heavy cruiser. Discussion of the torpedo
explosion and ensuing rumbling sounds, described as similar to
the roar and rumbling of a large anchor chain being dropped,
leaves no doubt as to the scoring of at least one hit.
4.
The S-47 proceeded to SUVA, VITI LEVU, FIJI
ISLANDS at the end of this petrol where she joined the re-
mainder of Submarine Division Fifty-Three and the U.S.S. GRIFFIN
for upkeep preparatory to proceeding for duty in the Atlantic
Fleet.

Copy to:
[SIGNATURE: R. W. Christie]
R. W. CHRISTIE.
Vice Opnav
-
(1)
Cincpec
-
(1)
Cinclant
-
(1)
Comsopacfor
-
(1)
Comsubspac
-
(1)
Comsubslant
-
(1)
Comsubsouwespec
-
(1)
USS S-47 file
-
(1)
Each S/M of TF-42
-
(1) (NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SEA - BURN)
TF-42 Petrol Summaries file - (1)
TF-42 War Diary
-
(1)
Comsubdiv 53
-
(1)
[STAMP: FILMED
44838]
CONFIDENTIAL

— page 149 —
1st copy
A16-3
S-E-C-R-E-T
[STAMP: CANCELLED
DECLASSIFIED]
From:
To
Via:
TASK FORCE FORTY-TWO,
c/o Flect Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
November 30, 1942.
1 0261
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.16
BY OP095A DATE 1/13/22]
The Commander Tesk Force FORTY-TWO.
The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Fleet.
The Commander South Pacific Force.
Subject:
U.S.S. S-47 (SS158) - Report of Fourth War Patrol -
October 20, 1942 to November 17, 1942.
Enclosure:
(A) Subject report.
1.
enclosure (A).
The subject report is forwarded herewith as
2.
This patrol was conducted in the crea west of
the enemy bases at FAISI-BUIN, SOLOMONS ISLANDS.
3.
Detailed discussion of the night surface attack
made on November 2, 1942, discloses that, while hazy overcast
weather prevented a clear picture of the ship attacked, the
Commanding Officer is sure she was a man-of-wer similer to a
LAKO or TONE CLASS heavy cruiser. Discussion of the torpedo
explosion and ensuing rumbling sounds, described as similar to
the roar and rumbling of a large anchor chain being dropped,
leaves no doubt as to the scoring of at least one hit.
4.
The S-47 proceeded to SUVA, VITI LEVU, FIJI
ISLANDS at the end of this petrol where she joined the re-
mainder of Submarine Division Fifty-Three and the U.S.S. GRIFFIN
for upkeep preparatory to proceeding for duty in the Atlantic
Fleet.

Copy to:
[SIGNATURE: R.W. Christie]
R. W. CHRISTIE.
Vice Opnav
-
(1)
Cincpec
-
(1)
Cinclant
-
(1)
Comsopacfor
-
(1)
Comsubspac
-
(1)
Comsubslant
-
(1)
Comsubsouwespec
-
(1)
[STAMP: FILMED
44838]
USS S-47 file
-
(1)
Each S/M of TF-42 - (1) (NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SEA - BURN)
TF-42 Petrol Summaries file - (1)
TF-42 War Diary - (1)
Comsubdiv 53 - (1)
CONFIDENTIAL

— page 150 —
SS158/A16-3
Serial (004)
S-E-C-R-E-T

U.S.S. S-47,
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.
November 19, 1942.

From:
To :
Subject:
References:
Enclosure:
1.
The Commanding Officer.
The Commander Task Force FORTY TWO.
U.S.S. S-47 - Report of Fourth War Patrol -
October 20, 1942 to November 17, 1942.
(a) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 042 of March 20, 1942.
(b) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 053 of May 29, 1942.
(c) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 083 of August 1, 1942.

(A) Report of Fourth War Patrol.

In accordance with references, the report of the
Fourth War Patrol conducted during the period October 20, 1942
to November 17, 1942, is forwarded herewith as Enclosure (A).

[SIGNATURE: F. E. Hayler]
F. E. HAYLER.

— page 150 —
SS158/A16-3
Serial (004)
S-E-C-R-E-T

U.S.S. S-47,
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.
November 19, 1942.

From:
To :
Subject:
References:
Enclosure:

1.
The Commanding Officer.
The Commander Task Force FORTY TWO.
U.S.S. S-47 - Report of Fourth War Patrol -
October 20, 1942 to November 17, 1942.
(a) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 042 of March 20, 1942.
(b) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 053 of May 29, 1942.
(c) Comsubron 5 Conf. ltr. FC5-5/A16-3
Serial 083 of August 1, 1942.

(A) Report of Fourth War Patrol.

In accordance with references, the report of the
Fourth War Patrol conducted during the period October 20, 1942
to November 17, 1942, is forwarded herewith as Enclosure (A).

[SIGNATURE: F. E. Hayler]
F. E. HAYLER.

— page 151 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
September 23 to October 20, 1942.
At BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA, for upkeep and recreation alongside
U.S.S. GRIFFIN. The following major items of work were accom-
plished:
1. Installed air conditioning unit.
2. Overhauled nine main engine units.
3. Overhauled both main engine air compressors.
4. Completely retubed port evaporator and renewed
small tube in starboard.
5. Reground both main engine exhaust inboard stop valves.
6. Removed and overhauled port bow plane and operating
mechanism.
7. Blanked off No.1 and No.4 main ballast tank salvage
check valves.
8. Removed No.2 main ballast tank fuel compensating mani-
fold. (Note: Items 7 and 8 to prevent fuel leaks).
9. Renewed crankshaft in starboard C&R air compressor.
10. Overhauled torpedo firing circuits.
11. Fumigated boat.
On September 30, 1942, I relieved Lieutenant Commander,
J. W. Davis, U.S. Navy, as Commanding Officer.

20 October, 1942.
1300 - Underway in accordance with ComTaskGroup Forty Two point
One operation order S46-42 from BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA.
1549 - Conducted test dive in MORETON BAY. Engine room hatch
coaming leaking badly.
1606 - Surfaced, lying to. Found all bolts loose on engine room
hatch coaming. Tightened same. Proceeded to main chan-
nel on both engines.
2355 - Took departure with CAPE MORETON LIGHT bearing 270°(T),
distance 1-1/4 miles. Set course 1000 (T).

21 October, 1942.
0100 - Changed course to 048° (T).
0555 - Made dawn dive for security and training. Engine room
hatch now tight.
0620 - Surfaced. Ahead standard all engines.
1035 - Received Subs 42 serial to TROUT directing return to base.
1200 - Position. Lat. 26-00 S., Long. 155-03 E.
1230 - Sighted submarine bearing 0580 (T). Identified same as
S-42. Changed course to 0250 (T).
-1-

— page 152 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1300 - Sighted steamer bearing 127° (T) on about 025° (T), distance
1325
1450
1816
-
-
5 miles. Changed course to 0000 (Τ).
Steamer changed course toward us so made quick dive to
avoid being sighted. Made wide turn to southward and he
passed north of us, distance 2500 yards. Unable to identify
him but he appeared to be a transport on various courses
from 305 to 025° (T). Lost sight of him bearing 3250 (T),
and on that course.
Surfaced on course 030° (T). Ahead standard all engines.
Received ComSoPac dispatch to S-37 concerning rendezvous.
1838 - Received Subs 42 serial assigning task unit numbers.
1905 - Received Subs 42 serial to TROUT regarding routing to base.
1930 - Received Subs 42 serial to SWORDFISH and SAURY directing
them to take on torpedoes in SYDNEY and routing them to
BRISBANE.
22 October, 1942.
0940 - Changed course to 005° (T). Slowed and started battery
charge on starboard engine.
1200 - Position. Lat. 23-20 S., Long. 156-34 Ε.
1230 - Received plain language dispatch reporting ships at
1705 -
2200
-
TONOLEI and FAISI.
Secured charge. Ahead standard all engines. Carrying a
300 ampere parallel float per side.
Changed course to 000° (T).
23 October, 1942
0030 - Received Subs 42 serial giving ETA of STURGEON and SCULPIN
also SAURY and SWORDFISH.
0900 - Changed course to 0050 (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 19-55 S., Long. 156-38 E.
2215
- Changed course to 0100 (T).
24 October, 1942.
0030 - Received Subs 42 serial to SWORDFISH and SAURY about sweep-
0945 - Changed course to 000° (T).
1200
-
1730 - Received Subs 42 serial directing boats not to pass through
2145
0408
-
ing exercise, WILSON PROMONTORY.
Position. Lat. 16-17 S., Long. 157-07 Ε.
other areas unless routed that way.
Changed course to 005° (T).
25 October, 1942.
Received Subs 42 serial to SWORDFISH receipting for ETA
and assigning task unit mumber.
-2-
---

— page 152 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
1300 - Sighted steamer bearing 127° (T) on about 025° (T), distance
1325
1450
1816
-
-
5 miles. Changed course to 0000 (Τ).
Steamer changed course toward us so made quick dive to
avoid being sighted. Made wide turn to southward and he
passed north of us, distance 2500 yards. Unable to identify
him but he appeared to be a transport on various courses
from 305 to 025° (T). Lost sight of him bearing 3250 (T),
and on that course.
Surfaced on course 030° (T). Ahead standard all engines.
Received ComSoPac dispatch to S-37 concerning rendezvous.
1838 - Received Subs 42 serial assigning task unit numbers.
1905 - Received Subs 42 serial to TROUT regarding routing to base.
1930 - Received Subs 42 serial to SWORDFISH and SAURY directing
them to take on torpedoes in SYDNEY and routing them to
BRISBANE.

22 October, 1942.
0940 - Changed course to 005° (T). Slowed and started battery
charge on starboard engine.
1200 - Position. Lat. 23-20 S., Long. 156-34 Ε.
1230 - Received plain language dispatch reporting ships at
1705 -
2200
-
TONOLEI and FAISI.
Secured charge. Ahead standard all engines. Carrying a
300 ampere parallel float per side.
Changed course to 000° (T).

23 October, 1942
0030 - Received Subs 42 serial giving ETA of STURGEON and SCULPIN
also SAURY and SWORDFISH.
0900 - Changed course to 0050 (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 19-55 S., Long. 156-38 E.
2215
- Changed course to 0100 (T).

24 October, 1942.
0030 - Received Subs 42 serial to SWORDFISH and SAURY about sweep-
0945 - Changed course to 000° (T).
1200
-
1730 - Received Subs 42 serial directing boats not to pass through
2145
0408
-
ing exercise, WILSON PROMONTORY.
Position. Lat. 16-17 S., Long. 157-07 Ε.
other areas unless routed that way.
Changed course to 005° (T).

25 October, 1942.
Received Subs 42 serial to SWORDFISH receipting for ETA
and assigning task unit mumber.
-2-

— page 153 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47

NARRATIVE
0539 - Made dawn dive for training.
0603 - Surfaced. Ahead standard all engines.
0945 - Received ComSoPac dispatch directing SKIPJACK, SILVERSIDES,
GRAYLING and AMBERJACK to guard Bell continuously.
1113 - Sighted B-17 bomber forward of port beam, distance about
5 miles, altitude 6º. Made quick dive to avoid being
sighted.
1130 - Surfaced.
1200 - Position. Lat, 12-49 S., Long. 157-19.5 E.
1240 - Changed course to 000° (T).
1740 - Received Subs 42 serial to SAURY and SWORDFISH concerning
rendezvous with Australian destroyer.
2201 - Received Subs 42 serial to SPEARFISH assigning new task
unit number.

26 October, 1942.
0012 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning attack on GUADALCANAL
and STURGEON report of FAISI-RABAUL traffic.
0258 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning rendezvous for SWORD-
FISH and BIRCHGROVE.
0400 - Changed course to 320° (T).
0515 - Made quick dive. This is the first of the all-day dives.
Will look every 15 minutes, varying between 90 feet and
periscope depth.
1035 - Changed course to 315° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 09-49.5 S., Long. 156-51 E.
1927 - Surfaced.
1945 - Commenced battery charge on starboard engine.

27 October, 1942.
0019 - Received Subs 42 serial giving SKIPJACK and GRAYLING most
likely spots in their areas.
0115 - Received Subs 42 serial to SNAPPER and SEADRAGON concern-
ing routing to BRISBANE.
0135 - Received Subs 42 serial to SNAPPER and SEADRAGON giving
procedure in MORETON BAY.
0430 - Secured battery charge. Ahead standard all engines.
0521 - Made quick dive. Will use same procedure as yesterday
for looking.
0700 - Changed course to 320° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 08-53.5 S., Long. 155-21 E.
1921 - Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on port engine.
2145 - Received Subs 42 serial to GROWLER assigning area and
unit number.
2300 - Changed course to 000° (T).

-3-

— page 153 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47

NARRATIVE
0539 - Made dawn dive for training.
0603 - Surfaced. Ahead standard all engines.
0945 - Received ComSoPac dispatch directing SKIPJACK, SILVERSIDES,
GRAYLING and AMBERJACK to guard Bell continuously.
1113 - Sighted B-17 bomber forward of port beam, distance about
5 miles, altitude 6º. Made quick dive to avoid being
sighted.
1130 - Surfaced.
1200 - Position. Lat, 12-49 S., Long. 157-19.5 E.
1240 - Changed course to 000° (T).
1740 - Received Subs 42 serial to SAURY and SWORDFISH concerning
rendezvous with Australian destroyer.
2201 - Received Subs 42 serial to SPEARFISH assigning new task
unit number.

26 October, 1942.
0012 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning attack on GUADALCANAL
and STURGEON report of FAISI-RABAUL traffic.
0258 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning rendezvous for SWORD-
FISH and BIRCHGROVE.
0400 - Changed course to 320° (T).
0515 - Made quick dive. This is the first of the all-day dives.
Will look every 15 minutes, varying between 90 feet and
periscope depth.
1035 - Changed course to 315° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 09-49.5 S., Long. 156-51 E.
1927 - Surfaced.
1945 - Commenced battery charge on starboard engine.

27 October, 1942.
0019 - Received Subs 42 serial giving SKIPJACK and GRAYLING most
likely spots in their areas.
0115 - Received Subs 42 serial to SNAPPER and SEADRAGON concern-
ing routing to BRISBANE.
0135 - Received Subs 42 serial to SNAPPER and SEADRAGON giving
procedure in MORETON BAY.
0430 - Secured battery charge. Ahead standard all engines.
0521 - Made quick dive. Will use same procedure as yesterday
for looking.
0700 - Changed course to 320° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 08-53.5 S., Long. 155-21 E.
1921 - Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on port engine.
2145 - Received Subs 42 serial to GROWLER assigning area and
unit number.
2300 - Changed course to 000° (T).

-3-

— page 154 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
28 October, 1942.
0019 - Received Subs 42 serial to GRAYLING changing patrol station.
0023 - Changed course to 305° (T).
0200 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding cripples.
0330 - Secured battery charge. Ahead standard all engines.
0521 - Made quick dive.
1107 - Sighted MONO ISLAND bearing 039° (T), distance 27 miles.
1200 - Position. Lat. 07-46 S., Long. 155-17.5 E.
1916 - Surfaced.
1925 - Changed course to 000° (T).
1927 - Started battery charge on starboard engine.
2200 - Received Subs 42 serial to GRAMPUS extending area and
routing home.
2206 - Received SAILFISH dispatch giving ETA and reporting results.
2300 - Changed course to 330° (T).
2317 - Sighted land bearing 050° (T). (Either SHORTLAND or
BOUGAINVILLE ISLANDS).
2350 - Sighted three red flares in vicinity of SHORTLAND ISLAND,
bearing 070° (T). Changed course to 120° (T) to close and
investigate.

29 October, 1942.
0100 - Received Subs 42 serial giving sightings on 27th.
0200 - Sighted another red flare bearing 075° (T).
0320 - Secured battery charge. All ahead standard.
0406 - Sighted MONO ISLAND bearing 120° (T).
0430 - Changed course to 015° (T). Will run up the line between
MONO and SHORTLAND today.
0509 - Made quick dive.
0617 - Changed course to 075° (T). Sighted SHORTLAND ISLAND
bearing 080° (T).
0830 - Changed course to 090° (T). Nothing in sight yet.
1030 - Changed course to 280° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 07-11.2 S., Long. 155-30 E.
1330 - Heard propellors on 281° (T) - nothing in sight.
1900 - Heard propellors on 2400 and 1400 (T), also pinging -
again nothing in sight.
1945 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine. Am
having considerable trouble with starboard C&R air com-
pressor. 75% of our air charging to date has been done
with port compressor.
2130 - Received Subs 42 serial to SAILFISH and SWORDFISH keeping
them clear while passing. Also ETA for SAILFISH.
2149 - Received Subs 42 serial to S-boats changing departure dates
from areas.
2340 - Received NR 368 from Radio GUADALCANAL reporting destroyer
sightings.
-4-

— page 154 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
28 October, 1942.
0019 - Received Subs 42 serial to GRAYLING changing patrol station.
0023 - Changed course to 305° (T).
0200 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding cripples.
0330 - Secured battery charge. Ahead standard all engines.
0521 - Made quick dive.
1107 - Sighted MONO ISLAND bearing 039° (T), distance 27 miles.
1200 - Position. Lat. 07-46 S., Long. 155-17.5 E.
1916 - Surfaced.
1925 - Changed course to 000° (T).
1927 - Started battery charge on starboard engine.
2200 - Received Subs 42 serial to GRAMPUS extending area and
routing home.
2206 - Received SAILFISH dispatch giving ETA and reporting results.
2300 - Changed course to 330° (T).
2317 - Sighted land bearing 050° (T). (Either SHORTLAND or
BOUGAINVILLE ISLANDS).
2350 - Sighted three red flares in vicinity of SHORTLAND ISLAND,
bearing 070° (T). Changed course to 120° (T) to close and
investigate.

29 October, 1942.
0100 - Received Subs 42 serial giving sightings on 27th.
0200 - Sighted another red flare bearing 075° (T).
0320 - Secured battery charge. All ahead standard.
0406 - Sighted MONO ISLAND bearing 120° (T).
0430 - Changed course to 015° (T). Will run up the line between
MONO and SHORTLAND today.
0509 - Made quick dive.
0617 - Changed course to 075° (T). Sighted SHORTLAND ISLAND
bearing 080° (T).
0830 - Changed course to 090° (T). Nothing in sight yet.
1030 - Changed course to 280° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 07-11.2 S., Long. 155-30 E.
1330 - Heard propellors on 281° (T) - nothing in sight.
1900 - Heard propellors on 2400 and 1400 (T), also pinging -
again nothing in sight.
1945 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine. Am
having considerable trouble with starboard C&R air com-
pressor. 75% of our air charging to date has been done
with port compressor.
2130 - Received Subs 42 serial to SAILFISH and SWORDFISH keeping
them clear while passing. Also ETA for SAILFISH.
2149 - Received Subs 42 serial to S-boats changing departure dates
from areas.
2340 - Received NR 368 from Radio GUADALCANAL reporting destroyer
sightings.
-4-

— page 155 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
30 October, 1942.
0105 - Changed course to 000º (T). Will try to get up to BUIN-
RABAUL line tonight.
0218 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning depth performance of
torpedoes.
0220 - 100 lb. air compressor block cracked near holding down web.
Will have to manufacture a dutchman before we can use it
again.
0510 - Made quick dive and changed course to 120° (T).
0700 - Changed course to 0900 (T).
1010 - Changed course to 1800 (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 06-43 S., Long. 154-50 E.
1244 - Changed course to 090° (T).
1334 - Changed course to 1800 (T).
1836 - Heard clicking noise on 030° (T) - nothing in sight.
1841 - Changed course to 0300 (T).
1850 - Changed course to 3300 (T).
1926 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
2055 - Changed course to 2700 (T).

31 October, 1942.
0000 - Changed course to 120° (T).
0324 - Secured charge - all ahead standard.
0334 - Sighted two red flares bearing 100°(T) over SHORTLAND ISLAND.
0512 - Submerged.
0800 - Changed course to 330° (T).
1137 - Heard sharp noise on 110° relative - nothing in sight.
1145 - Noise faded out.
1200 - Changed course to 045° (T). Posit. Lat. 06-40 S., Long.
155-43 E.
1340 - Changed course to 285° (T).
1700 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1925 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine.
2138 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning further data on torpedo
depth performance.
2206 - Received Subs 42 serial to GUDGEON giving route home and
warning S-boats about Orange submarines.
2217 - Received Subs 42 serial to SAURY and SAILFISH giving routes
to and from areas.
2230 - Changed course to 1200 (T). Received Subs 42 serial con-
cerning damaged Orange cruiser and giving rendezvous.

1 November, 1942.
0110 - Heard aircraft engine overhead - dove to escape detection.
There is a bright moon this morning and the visibility is
excellent.
-5-

— page 155 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
30 October, 1942.
0105 - Changed course to 000º (T). Will try to get up to BUIN-
RABAUL line tonight.
0218 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning depth performance of
torpedoes.
0220 - 100 lb. air compressor block cracked near holding down web.
Will have to manufacture a dutchman before we can use it
again.
0510 - Made quick dive and changed course to 120° (T).
0700 - Changed course to 0900 (T).
1010 - Changed course to 1800 (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 06-43 S., Long. 154-50 E.
1244 - Changed course to 090° (T).
1334 - Changed course to 1800 (T).
1836 - Heard clicking noise on 030° (T) - nothing in sight.
1841 - Changed course to 0300 (T).
1850 - Changed course to 3300 (T).
1926 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
2055 - Changed course to 2700 (T).

31 October, 1942.
0000 - Changed course to 120° (T).
0324 - Secured charge - all ahead standard.
0334 - Sighted two red flares bearing 100°(T) over SHORTLAND ISLAND.
0512 - Submerged.
0800 - Changed course to 330° (T).
1137 - Heard sharp noise on 110° relative - nothing in sight.
1145 - Noise faded out.
1200 - Changed course to 045° (T). Posit. Lat. 06-40 S., Long.
155-43 E.
1340 - Changed course to 285° (T).
1700 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1925 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine.
2138 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning further data on torpedo
depth performance.
2206 - Received Subs 42 serial to GUDGEON giving route home and
warning S-boats about Orange submarines.
2217 - Received Subs 42 serial to SAURY and SAILFISH giving routes
to and from areas.
2230 - Changed course to 1200 (T). Received Subs 42 serial con-
cerning damaged Orange cruiser and giving rendezvous.

1 November, 1942.
0110 - Heard aircraft engine overhead - dove to escape detection.
There is a bright moon this morning and the visibility is
excellent.
-5-

— page 156 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0130 - Surfaced. All clear. Resumed battery charge.
0344 - Secured battery charge.
0347 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning new Boll schedule.
0400 - Changed course to 0000 (T).
0510 - Submerged.
0615 - Heard propellors on 070° (T).
0626 - Pinging reported by sound.
0630 - Sighted two small patrol minecraft on course 310° (T).
0704 - Went to battle stations and commenced approach.
Unable to attain firing position so secured from battle
stations. Believe we are in the traffic lane at last.
Changed course to 030°(T).
0815 - Propellors on 265° relative. Sighted vessel hull down.
High speed propellor beat.
0818 - Went to battle stations. Ship is small shallow draft
destroyer doing about 25 knots judging from turn count
(250). Started approach - lost depth control. When
regained, target beyond firing range. His course about
085° (T).
0841 - Secured from battle stations.
1127 - Changed course to 290° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 06-58 S., Long. 154-55 E.
1630 - Changed course to 300° (T).
1805 - Pinging on 0050 relative - nothing in sight.
1918 - Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on starboard engine.
2230 - Changed course to 115° (T).

2 November, 1942.

0325 - Sighted large ship three points forward of port beam,
distance about 2000 yards (See Details of Action).
Secured charge - got on motors - all ahead full - swinging
left with hard left rudder. Made ready the torpedo tubes.
0340 - Fired first torpedo on 130° port track. Fired next two
at 10 second intervals. Observed tracks which seemed to
be passing ahead of target so swung right ten degrees and
let the fourth one go on 1200 port track. Submerged and
rigged for depth charges. Time of diving 41 seconds.
Course 310°(T).
0343 - Sound reported a dull clank followed by a rumbling noise.
Clank was heard in all compartments except engine and
motor rooms. Immediately after this we heard six rapid
depth charge detonations - not very close. Sound reported
no screws audible.
0346 - Changed course to 115° (T).
0400 - Changed course to 000° (T).
-6-

— page 157 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S, S-47
NARRATIVE
0410 - Changed course to 310° (T), Will head over in his direction
0440 - Sound still reports no sound, Commenced reload,
0505 - Reload completed,
0510 - Periscope depth - nothing in sight.
0603 - Changed course to 120° (T).
0730 - Changed course to 270° (T).
0836 - Changed course to 305° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 06-47 S., Long. 154-39 E.
1400 - Changed course to 125° (T).
1543 - Sighted Orange submarine on surface bearing 145° (T), dis-
tance 3000 yards. Came to course 2300 (T) (Normal approach
course) and went to battle stations. Unable to reach
firing position. Submarine appeared to be one of I-52
class. His course about 260° (T)
1615 - Secured from battle stations. Changed course to 120° (T).
1920 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine.
2100 - Changed course to 305° (T).
2155 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning dope from SAILFISH.
2213 - Received Subs 42 serial to SPEARFISH regarding sightings.
2219 - Changed course to 270° (T).
2256 - Received Subs 42 serial to SPEARFISH regarding route.
2320 - Changed course to 255° (Т).

3 November, 1942.
0210 - Changed course to 120°(T).
0240 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning routing for SPEARFISH.
0259 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding shipping from KAVIENG
to RABAUL,
0300 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding GRAYBACK and sightings.
0511 - Submerged.
0540 - Propellors on 295° relative - faded out - nothing in sight.
1200 - Position. Lat. 07-54 S., Long, 154-28 E.
1408 - Changed course to 180° (T).
1517 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1605 - Changed course to 120° (T),
1910 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
1930 - Changed course to 075° (T).
2026 - Changed course to 000° (T).
2107 - Changed course to 020° (T).
2135 - Received Subs 42 serial to SPEARFISH cancelling previous
serial.

4 November, 1942.
0225 - Sighted MONO ISLAND bearing 027° (T),
0245 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding SARGO.
-7-

— page 157 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S, S-47
NARRATIVE
0410 - Changed course to 310° (T), Will head over in his direction
0440 - Sound still reports no sound, Commenced reload,
0505 - Reload completed,
0510 - Periscope depth - nothing in sight.
0603 - Changed course to 120° (T).
0730 - Changed course to 270° (T).
0836 - Changed course to 305° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 06-47 S., Long. 154-39 E.
1400 - Changed course to 125° (T).
1543 - Sighted Orange submarine on surface bearing 145° (T), dis-
tance 3000 yards. Came to course 230° (T) (Normal approach
course) and went to battle stations. Unable to reach
firing position. Submarine appeared to be one of I-52
class. His course about 260° (T)
1615 - Secured from battle stations. Changed course to 120° (T).
1920 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine.
2100 - Changed course to 305° (T).
2155 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning dope from SAILFISH.
2213 - Received Subs 42 serial to SPEARFISH regarding sightings.
2219 - Changed course to 270° (T).
2256 - Received Subs 42 serial to SPEARFISH regarding route.
2320 - Changed course to 255° (Т).

3 November, 1942.
0210 - Changed course to 120°(T).
0240 - Received Subs 42 serial concerning routing for SPEARFISH.
0259 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding shipping from KAVIENG
to RABAUL,
0300 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding GRAYBACK and sightings.
0511 - Submerged.
0540 - Propellors on 295° relative - faded out - nothing in sight.
1200 - Position. Lat. 07-54 S., Long, 154-28 E.
1408 - Changed course to 180° (T).
1517 - Changed course to 270° (T).
1605 - Changed course to 120° (T),
1910 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
1930 - Changed course to 075° (T).
2026 - Changed course to 000° (T).
2107 - Changed course to 020° (T).
2135 - Received Subs 42 serial to SPEARFISH cancelling previous
serial.

4 November, 1942.
0225 - Sighted MONO ISLAND bearing 027° (T),
0245 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding SARGO.
-7-

— page 158 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0246 - Secured charge. All ahead standard.
0300 - Changed course to 1500 (Τ).
0506 - Submerged. Leaving patrol station.
0945 - Propellors on 330° relative - nothing in sight.
1027 - Pinging and propellors on 2000 relative - nothing in sight.
1100 - Propellors bearing 1600 relative and fading out.
1200 - Position. Lat. 08-11.3 S., Long. 155-56 E.
1914 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine.
2145 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding SARGO routing.

5 November, 1942.

0014 - Sighted red flare 3 points abaft port beam. Changed
course to 230° (T).
0100 - Changed course to 150° (T).
0300 - Secured charge. All ahead standard.
0500 - Submerged.
0700 - Changed course to 225° (T) to clear Area BAKER.
1200 - Position. Lat. 09-48.5 S., Long. 157-00 E. Changed
course to 1800 (Τ).
1920 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine.
1927 - Changed course to 105° (т).
2055 - Changed course to 100° (T).

6 November, 1942.

0310 - Secured battery charge. All ahead standard.
0501 - Submerged. Flooded main induction. Surfaced and inspected
valve. Found gasket out of groove for about two inches
on starboard side. Reseated and tested. Caused by venting
pressure in boat on surfacing.
0510 - Submerged again. Main induction now tight. Maintained
down angle and drained water to torpedo room bilges.
0836 - Changed course to 080° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 11-04.2 S., Long. 158-25 E.
1912 - Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on port engine.
1935 - Received Subs 42 serial to SARGO regarding sightings and
directing acknowledgment of previous serial.
2340 - Changed course to 070°(T).

7 November, 1942

0010 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding RABAUL sightings and
SARGO ETA.
0042 - Changed course to 090° (T).
0256 - Secured battery charge - all ahead standard.
0500 - Submerged.
1200 - Position - Lat. 10-41 S., Long. 160-08 E.

-8-

— page 158 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
0246 - Secured charge. All ahead standard.
0300 - Changed course to 1500 (Τ).
0506 - Submerged. Leaving patrol station.
0945 - Propellors on 330° relative - nothing in sight.
1027 - Pinging and propellors on 2000 relative - nothing in sight.
1100 - Propellors bearing 1600 relative and fading out.
1200 - Position. Lat. 08-11.3 S., Long. 155-56 E.
1914 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine.
2145 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding SARGO routing.

5 November, 1942.

0014 - Sighted red flare 3 points abaft port beam. Changed
course to 230° (T).
0100 - Changed course to 150° (T).
0300 - Secured charge. All ahead standard.
0500 - Submerged.
0700 - Changed course to 225° (T) to clear Area BAKER.
1200 - Position. Lat. 09-48.5 S., Long. 157-00 E. Changed
course to 1800 (Τ).
1920 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on port engine.
1927 - Changed course to 105° (т).
2055 - Changed course to 100° (T).

6 November, 1942.

0310 - Secured battery charge. All ahead standard.
0501 - Submerged. Flooded main induction. Surfaced and inspected
valve. Found gasket out of groove for about two inches
on starboard side. Reseated and tested. Caused by venting
pressure in boat on surfacing.
0510 - Submerged again. Main induction now tight. Maintained
down angle and drained water to torpedo room bilges.
0836 - Changed course to 080° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 11-04.2 S., Long. 158-25 E.
1912 - Surfaced. Commenced battery charge on port engine.
1935 - Received Subs 42 serial to SARGO regarding sightings and
directing acknowledgment of previous serial.
2340 - Changed course to 070°(T).

7 November, 1942

0010 - Received Subs 42 serial regarding RABAUL sightings and
SARGO ETA.
0042 - Changed course to 090° (T).
0256 - Secured battery charge - all ahead standard.
0500 - Submerged.
1200 - Position - Lat. 10-41 S., Long. 160-08 E.

-8-

— page 160 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
11 November, 1942.
0027 - Received Subs 42 serial to SKIPJACK changing previous
serial and instructions.
0030 - Received Subs 42 serial acknowledging position of CSD 53.
0350 - Secured battery charge.
0446 - Submerged.
0517 - Sighted VANIKORO ISLAND bearing 030° (T), distant 37 miles.
0520 - Changed course to 100° (T).
0655 - Changed course to 090° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 12-24 S., Long. 166-45 E.
1828 - Surfaced,
2000 - Started battery charge on starboard engine.

12 November, 1942.
0225 - Secured battery charge. Starboard ahead standard, port
ahead 2/3.
0432 - Submerged.
0605 - Changed course to 102° (T).
0715 - Sighted TUCOPIA ISLAND bearing 086° (T), distance 27 miles.
0728 - Changed course to 112° (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 12-28 S., Long. 168-24 E.
1828 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
2000 - Changed course to 127° (T).

13 November, 1942.
0036 - Received Subs 42 serial acknowledging positions and ETA
of S-boats.
0317 - Secured battery charge.
0429 - Submerged.
1200 - Position. Lat. 13-25 S., Long. 169-56 E.
1832 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
2100 - Changed course to 120° (T).

14 November, 1942.
0100 - Secured battery charge.
0213 - Received Subs 42 serial to GUDGEON changing patrol station
and directing acknowledgment.
0429 - Submerged.
0445 - Changed course to 125° (т).
1200 - Position: Lat. 14-22 S., Long. 171-22 E.
1826 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
1959 - Received Subs 42 serial to SNAPPER and GUDGEON assigning
new patrol stations and routing GUDGEON to base.
2226 - Changed course to 120° (т).

-10-

— page 160 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
11 November, 1942.
0027 - Received Subs 42 serial to SKIPJACK changing previous
serial and instructions.
0030 - Received Subs 42 serial acknowledging position of CSD 53.
0350 - Secured battery charge.
0446 - Submerged.
0517 - Sighted VANIKORO ISLAND bearing 030° (T), distant 37 miles.
0520 - Changed course to 1000 (T).
0655 - Changed course to 0900 (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 12-24 S., Long. 166-45 E.
1828 - Surfaced,
2000 - Started battery charge on starboard engine.

12 November, 1942.
0225 - Secured battery charge. Starboard ahead standard, port
ahead 2/3.
0432 - Submerged.
0605 - Changed course to 1020 (T).
0715 - Sighted TUCOPIA ISLAND bearing 086° (T), distance 27 miles.
0728 - Changed course to 1120 (T).
1200 - Position. Lat. 12-28 S., Long. 168-24 E.
1828 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
2000 - Changed course to 1270 (T).

13 November, 1942.
0036 - Received Subs 42 serial acknowledging positions and ETA
of S-boats.
0317 - Secured battery charge.
0429 - Submerged.
1200 - Position. Lat. 13-25 S., Long. 169-56 E.
1832 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
2100 - Changed course to 120° (T).

14 November, 1942.
0100 - Secured battery charge.
0213 - Received Subs 42 serial to GUDGEON changing patrol station
and directing acknowledgment.
0429 - Submerged.
0445 - Changed course to 125° (т).
1200 - Position: Lat. 14-22 S., Long. 171-22 E.
1826 - Surfaced. Started battery charge on starboard engine.
1959 - Received Subs 42 serial to SNAPPER and GUDGEON assigning
new patrol stations and routing GUDGEON to base.
2226 - Changed course to 120° (т).

-10-

— page 161 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
15 November, 1942.
0057 - Secured battery charge.
0403 - Received Subs 42 serial giving ETA GRIFFIN.
1200 - Position. Lat. 15-33 S., Long. 172-33 E. Set clocks
ahead one hour to conform to zone minus twelve time.

16 November, 1942
0801 - Sighted B-24 bomber on port bow, distance about three
miles. Pulled flare and gave challenge. Plane acknow-
ledged and disappeared astern.
1200 - Position. Lat. 17-05 S., Long. 175-05 E.

17 November, 1942.
0300 - Received Subs 42 serial to GROWLER concerning convoy.
This dispatch was garbled toward the end and no correction
has been sent yet.
0445 - Sighted VITI LEVU ISLAND bearing 030° (T), distant 30 miles
0747 - Changed course to 135° (T).
0842 - Sighted escort vessel broad on starboard bow. Exchanged
calls.
0918 - Fell in astern and set course for SUVA HARBOR.
1541 - Moored alongside GRIFFIN in nest.

------ニーニー

Weather
The weather to and from patrol station was normal with clear
skies and fairly calm seas. In the patrol area we were frequently
unable to obtain fixes and had to run on DR. A bright moon during
the entire time in the area increased visibility even when the
sky was overcast.

Tidal Information
Found currents as charted for the most part. Southwest of
BOUGAINVILLE ISLAND there is a strong constant set to the south-
west - about 1.0 to 1.7 knots.

Navigational Aids
Navigational aids consisted mainly of MONO ISLAND and one or
two prominent peaks on BOUGAINVILLE ISLAND. At night frequent
rod flares kept us informed of the bearing of SHORTLAND ISLAND.
-11-

— page 161 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
NARRATIVE
15 November, 1942.
0057 - Secured battery charge.
0403 - Received Subs 42 serial giving ETA GRIFFIN.
1200 - Position. Lat. 15-33 S., Long. 172-33 E. Set clocks
ahead one hour to conform to zone minus twelve time.

16 November, 1942
0801 - Sighted B-24 bomber on port bow, distance about three
miles. Pulled flare and gave challenge. Plane acknow-
ledged and disappeared astern.
1200 - Position. Lat. 17-05 S., Long. 175-05 E.

17 November, 1942.
0300 - Received Subs 42 serial to GROWLER concerning convoy.
This dispatch was garbled toward the end and no correction
has been sent yet.
0445 - Sighted VITI LEVU ISLAND bearing 030° (T), distant 30 miles
0747 - Changed course to 135° (T).
0842 - Sighted escort vessel broad on starboard bow. Exchanged
calls.
0918 - Fell in astern and set course for SUVA HARBOR.
1541 - Moored alongside GRIFFIN in nest.

------ニーニー

Weather
The weather to and from patrol station was normal with clear
skies and fairly calm seas. In the patrol area we were frequently
unable to obtain fixes and had to run on DR. A bright moon during
the entire time in the area increased visibility even when the
sky was overcast.

Tidal Information
Found currents as charted for the most part. Southwest of
BOUGAINVILLE ISLAND there is a strong constant set to the south-
west - about 1.0 to 1.7 knots.

Navigational Aids
Navigational aids consisted mainly of MONO ISLAND and one or
two prominent peaks on BOUGAINVILLE ISLAND. At night frequent
rod flares kept us informed of the bearing of SHORTLAND ISLAND.
-11-

— page 162 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
Shipping and Air patrol
October 22 - 1300 - Unidentified steamer in latitude 26-00 S.,
longitude 155-00 E. on course 325° (T).

October 25 - 1113 - B-17 bomber, latitude 12-49 S., longitude
159-19 E. on northerly course.

November 1 - 0630 - Two small patrol minecraft, latitude
06-50 S., longitude 154-55 E. on course 3100 (T).

0815 - Small destroyer, same latitude and longi-
tude, course 085° (T).

November 2 - 0325 - KAKO or TONE class cruiser, latitude
06-45 S., longitude 154-40 E., course 2500 (T). Fired four tor-
pedoes.

November 16 - 0801 - B-24 bomber, latitude 17-00 S., longi-
tude 174-45 E. on westerly course.

BUIN to RABAUL traffic apparently steers course about 260°(T)
for a point latitude 06-50 S. and longitude 154-45 E., changing
course there to 310° (T) and heading up for ST. GEORGES CHANNEL.

Details of Action

At 0325, November 2, 1942, underway on course 115° (T), going
ahead 2/3 on port engine and charging batteries on starboard, the
bow lookout sighted a large ship, three points forward of port
beam, range about 2000 yards. By the time I arrived on the bridge,
the charge had been secured and we were swinging hard left and
going ahead full on the motors. We continued to swing left to
course 300° (T), putting him on a 130° port track, assuming him
on course 250° (T) and at a speed of 20 knots. During the turn
we went to battle stations and made the tubes ready for firing,
flooding them from sea. Firing bearing was sent up from the con-
trol room where the Mark VI was manned. At about 0340, he came
on the bearing and we let the first torpedo go, following it with
two more at ten second intervals. I do not know why I held up on
the fourth torpedo, but on observing the tracks of the first three,
it seemed they were passing ahead of the target. We came right
ten degrees to course 310° (T) and fired the fourth on a 120° port
track. I judged the interval between the third and fourth torpe-
does to be about 25 seconds.

-12-

— page 163 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
Details of Action - (Con't)
The target appeared to be a heavy cruiser of the KAKO or
TONE class. We could make out a stick mast and superstructure
forward and a long low deck and fantail aft.
On firing the fourth torpedo, we submerged, diving time 41
seconds, and rigged for depth charges. (No screening vessels
had been sighted). About two minutes after diving we heard a
dull clank and a groan or rumble. These noises were followed
by six rapid depth charge detonations, not close, and then com-
plete silence. Sound could hear no propellor beats but did hear
the clank, rumble and depth charges.
After the depth charges, we changed course to 100° (T) to
clear the area, but on hearing no more, came back to 310° (T) to
be near the spot when dawn broke. At 0440 commenced reload and
completed it without incident at 0505. By this time it was get-
ting fairly light and I could see all around - nothing in sight.
Maintained 310° (T) until 0603, at which time I changed course
to 120° (T) and continued submerged patrol.
I believe the fourth torpedo was a hit, the other three pass-
ing ahead. The depth charges were evidently dropped to keep us
from coming too close. There is a possibility, however, that they
were jettisoned since there was no apparent pattern.
Enemy Anti-submarine Measures
Nothing new encountered. The only echo ranging definitely
heard was done by the patrol-minecraft on 1 November.
Material Defects Experienced.
Engine room hatch coaming not set up tightly before leaving
base.
Starboard C&R air compressor was not used after about a week
of patrol. Constant valve trouble, a loose connecting rod bearing
in the second stage causing serious damage to the brass, and
clutch slippage were the main items. The port installation has
a cracked bracket and crankcase. The block was held to the brac-
ket throughout the patrol with C-clamps. This compressor was also
troubled with clutch slippage. Australian corks used in these
clutches are of inferior quality and wear down rapidly causing
matal to metal contact.
-13-

— page 163 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47
Details of Action - (Con't)
The target appeared to be a heavy cruiser of the KAKO or
TONE class. We could make out a stick mast and superstructure
forward and a long low deck and fantail aft.
On firing the fourth torpedo, we submerged, diving time 41
seconds, and rigged for depth charges. (No screening vessels
had been sighted). About two minutes after diving we heard a
dull clank and a groan or rumble. These noises were followed
by six rapid depth charge detonations, not close, and then com-
plete silence. Sound could hear no propellor beats but did hear
the clank, rumble and depth charges.
After the depth charges, we changed course to 100° (T) to
clear the area, but on hearing no more, came back to 310° (T) to
be near the spot when dawn broke. At 0440 commenced reload and
completed it without incident at 0505. By this time it was get-
ting fairly light and I could see all around - nothing in sight.
Maintained 310° (T) until 0603, at which time I changed course
to 120° (T) and continued submerged patrol.
I believe the fourth torpedo was a hit, the other three pass-
ing ahead. The depth charges were evidently dropped to keep us
from coming too close. There is a possibility, however, that they
were jettisoned since there was no apparent pattern.
Enemy Anti-submarine Measures
Nothing new encountered. The only echo ranging definitely
heard was done by the patrol-minecraft on 1 November.
Material Defects Experienced.
Engine room hatch coaming not set up tightly before leaving
base.
Starboard C&R air compressor was not used after about a week
of patrol. Constant valve trouble, a loose connecting rod bearing
in the second stage causing serious damage to the brass, and
clutch slippage were the main items. The port installation has
a cracked bracket and crankcase. The block was held to the brac-
ket throughout the patrol with C-clamps. This compressor was also
troubled with clutch slippage. Australian corks used in these
clutches are of inferior quality and wear down rapidly causing
matal to metal contact.
-13-

— page 164 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47

On November 9, 1942, on rolling the port engine, the throttle
man thought he noticed a suspicious movement in No.1 unit. He
stopped the rolling and inspected the unit carefully. Finding
nothing wrong, he gave the controllerman the roll signal again.
This time the unit lifted clear of the holding down web. In-
spection revealed a break throughout the entire circumference.
Casting had been cracked previously and weakened. Sections of
the break appeared old and oxidized.

The head was pulled, the piston and connecting rod removed
and the remainder of the patrol carried out on seven cylinders
on the port engine.

Food and Habitability

Habitability and preparation of food excellent. I was
required to survey 200 pounds of beef due to faulty refrigeration,

General Comments.

None

Logistics.
Days duration of patrol..
Number of days submerged..
Total miles steamed surface and
submerged by RPM
Gallons fuel oil used..
% of capacity fuel oil used....
Gallons Lub. oil used......
% of capacity Lub. oil used......
Gallons potable water used.......
Gallons battery water used...
Factor limiting patrol duration...
29
20
...
4,338.3
...
.18,985
54.4%
2,033
44.4%
....
..
..
5,059
709
Battery water.

-14-

— page 164 —
S-E-C-R-E-T
U.S.S. S-47

On November 9, 1942, on rolling the port engine, the throttle
man thought he noticed a suspicious movement in No.1 unit. He
stopped the rolling and inspected the unit carefully. Finding
nothing wrong, he gave the controllerman the roll signal again.
This time the unit lifted clear of the holding down web. In-
spection revealed a break throughout the entire circumference.
Casting had been cracked previously and weakened. Sections of
the break appeared old and oxidized.

The head was pulled, the piston and connecting rod removed
and the remainder of the patrol carried out on seven cylinders
on the port engine.

Food and Habitability

Habitability and preparation of food excellent. I was
required to survey 200 pounds of beef due to faulty refrigeration,

General Comments.

None

Logistics.
Days duration of patrol..
Number of days submerged..
Total miles steamed surface and
submerged by RPM
Gallons fuel oil used..
% of capacity fuel oil used....
Gallons Lub. oil used......
% of capacity Lub. oil used......
Gallons potable water used.......
Gallons battery water used...
Factor limiting patrol duration...
-14-
29
20
...
4,338.3
...
.18,985
54.4%
2,033
44.4%
....
..
..
5,059
709
Battery water.