U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS-407) — war patrol report SS-407_SEA_ROBIN.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108]

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OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: M. Monroe]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 2/13/80]

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET - START AND END
NDW-NPPSO-5210/1 (6-78)

— page 2 —
[HANDWRITTEN: SEA ROBIN (SS-407)]
[HANDWRITTEN: WORLD WAR II PATROL FILE]

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

[HANDWRITTEN: FOR DECK LOG AUGUST 1944 - DECEMBER 1945]
[HANDWRITTEN: CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES WHICH HAS CUSTODY.]

[HANDWRITTEN: J.A. KOONTZ]

— page 3 —
Sea Robin

A spiny-finned fish having red or brown coloring on
its body and fins. The first three rays of the pectoral
fin are separate from the others and are used in walk-
ing about over the sea bottom.

(SS-407: dp. 1,526 (surf.), 2,401 (subm.); l. 311'8";
b. 27'3"; dr. 15'3"; s. 20 k. (surf.), 8.75 k. (subm.);
cpl. 81; a. 1 5", 1 40mm., 1 20mm., 10 21"-tt.; cl.
Balao)

Sea Robin (SS-407) was laid down by the Ports-
mouth (N.H.) Navy Yard on 1 March 1944; launched
on 25 May 1944; sponsored by Mrs. Homer Ambrose,
wife of Capt. Ambrose, the Navy Yard's Production
Superintendent; and commissioned on 7 August 1944,
Lt. Comdr. Paul C. Stimson in command.

— page 5 —
Highlights of 1970 were participation in operation
"Springboard" in January and February and NATO
exercise "Steel Ring" in April and May. On 4 August,
the submarine made her 12,920th and final dive.
On 1 October 1970, Sea Robin was decommissioned and
struck from the Navy list. She was sold for scrap on
3 June 1971 to the North American Smelting Co.,
Wilmington, Del.
Sea Robin received three battle stars for World
War II service.

— page 6 —
Dictionary of

American Naval
Fighting Ships

VOLUME VI

Historical Sketches—Letters R through S

Appendices—Submarine Chasers (SC)
Eagle-Class Patrol Craft (PE)

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

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

NAVAL HISTORY DIVISION
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
WASHINGTON: 1976

— page 7 —
SS407/A16-3
Serial ( 01 )

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY C/L9B4] [HANDWRITTEN: DATE 6/16/72]

From: The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. Sea Robin (SS407).
To : The Commander Task Force Seventy One.
Via : Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. Sea Robin, Report of War Patrol Number ONE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject report.
(B) Track chart (with original).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol of
this vessel conducted in South China Sea during the period 26
November 1944 to 29 January 1945, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: P. C. Stinson]
P. C. STINSON.

[STAMP: FILMED]
[STAMP: 110220]

— page 8 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                o/o Fleet Post Office.
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. SEA ROBIN - Report of First War Patrol.

(A) PROLOGUE

        Commissioned at Portsmouth, N.H. on 7 August 1944. 22 August
to 16 September, conducted sea trials, made training dives and
deep dive. 17 September departed Portsmouth, N.H. and arrived
Newport, R.I. 18-20 September fired contract torpedo trials.
20 September departed Newport, R.I. and arrived New London, Ct. 20
September to 3 October conducted intensive training. 3 October
departed New London, Ct. enroute Balboa, C.Z. 12 October arrived
Balboa, C.Z. 13-21 October in Panama area conducting approaches,
making training dives, exercising at battle surface, etc. Fired
20 mark 23 exercise torpedoes. Panama training was excellent.
        21 October to 5 November enroute Panama to Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Conducted drills and training enroute.
        Arrived Pearl Harbor, T.H. on 5 November. Assigned to
Submarine Division 46 for training. Underwent five day refit by
Submarine Base during which installation of VHF, ABT, booster
blower for ventilation forward, DCDI, 2 40mm guns and attendant
stowages were accomplished. During training period fired 6 mark
14 exercise torpedoes. Fired 5" gun and 40mm and .50 calibers
several times at stationary target off Barbers Point.
        Experimental model ST radar was installed during our train-
ing period at Portsmouth, N.H. Mark I Mod I Submarine DRT was
given to us at New London, Ct. and installed at Panama.
        Readiness for sea date, 26 November 1944.

(B) NARRATIVE

November 26, 1944.
1300(VW) Departed Pearl in company with Guardfish, and PC escort.
Sea Robin, Guardfish and Sea Dog organized as a coordinated attack
group. Task group designation 17.14. CTG 17.14 in Sea Dog. This
unit is designated 17.14.3. Will rendezvous with Sea Dog 400 miles
southwest of Midway.
1415(VW) Made battle surface firing pass at stationary target off
Barbers Point.
1515(VW) Set course for rendezvous. Took station 5 miles north of
Guardfish.

-1-

— page 9 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

November 26 - December 1.
Enroute rendezvous. Held communication drills with Guardfish;
held radar tracking drills and made submerged approaches daily on
Guardfish. Made many training dives and exercised at emergency
drills.

December 1.
1430(M) Rendezvous with Sea Dog. Guardfish transferred Op-Ord
to Sea Dog.
1545(M) Set course for Saipan. Took station 10 miles on Sea Dog's
port beam.

December 1 - 8.
Enroute Saipan. General training enroute.

December 8.
0530(K) Made rendezvous with escort. Proceeded to Saipan, zigging
radically at 4 engine speed because of known presence of enemy subs.
0622(K) Escort declared he had sound contact in our vicinity.
Reversed course at full power. Escort was unable to reestablish
contact. Continued to Saipan.
1015(K) Entered Tanapag Harbor and moored in nest alongside
Fulton. Commenced minor voyage repairs. Personnel from tender
were exceptionally cooperative.

December 9.
0930(K) Underway enroute patrol area.
1100(K) Took station 10 miles on Sea Dog's port beam.
1358(K) Sighted Liberator and exchanged recognition signals.
(A/C # 1).

December 11. (From here on all times (I) unless otherwise specified).
0934 Sighted Betty on port quarter. Dived. SJ made contact at
9600 yds. Was not using SD and no APR contact was made. (A/C # 2).
0954 Surfaced, all clear. Had weak APR contact at irregular intervals
on 150 m.c.
1050 Sighted unidentified 4 engined land based plane on starboard
bow. Dived. Prior to sighting made APR contact at 530 mc., 350
p.p.s. Believe this was a U.S. plane but didn't identify him as
the sky was extremely cloudy. (A/C # 3).

-2-

— page 10 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

December 11 (Cont'd)
1106 Surfaced. All clear by sight and APR.
2207 SJ Radar contact 4400 yds. on starboard bow. Reversed course
and put target on our quarter. No radar interference of any kind
although target closed to 3100 yds before range started to open.
Tracked target on course 115° T, speed 14. Could this be the
Razorback or Tropaeng? Pip was small and no SJ interference came
from it. Definitely decided it was a sub, but whose sub? Informed
Wolf Pack Commander we were tracking unidentified target on course
115° T, speed 14. (S/C.# 1).
2245 Message from Guardfish stating our contact might be on her, as
target's position sent out by us was very close to Guardfish's
position. Knew that target could not be Guardfish because target
was headed East and Guardfish was headed West. Tried to raise
Razorback and Tropaeng on wolf pack frequency, 2880 kcs, and 4155
kcs. No results.

December 12.
0056 Still tracking target, same course, same speed. This is a
very helpless feeling. If he is friendly and we wait until day-
light to find out, we will be a day late reaching an area. We think
he is friendly, but lack of radar indicates he may be Jap. If he
is Jap and we challenge, he will dive and we will be unable to
identify him as such at dawn and torpedo him. Decided to challenge
target because we were already 80 miles behind our pack and would
be 300 miles behind if we waited until daylight. Definitely decided
target must be Razorback or a U.S. submarine heading for Saipan
with his radar out of commission.
0058 Challenged target. Forty seconds later received correct reply.
It was USS Jack. She informed us that her radar was out of commiss-
ion. We informed her that we had been tracking her for three hours.
0119 Port vent motor to main motor out of commission. Headed for
rest of pack at one shaft speed, 12.5 knots. Commenced working on
commutator bars melted. (See Major Defects).

December 13.
0000 Still making one shaft full speed, 13.5 knots.
0850 Vent motor for port main motor back in commission. It took
about 32 hours to repair vent motor. See Major Defects for details.
Changed speed to four engine speed in order to comply with Pack
Commander's order to take station 12 miles south of Balintang
Island by 0500(I) on the 14th. Can make it if we can average 16.8
knots. Seas are on our starboard quarter and we will make it if
not forced down.

-3-

— page 11 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

December 14.
0435 Radar contact on Babuyan Island 270° T, 60,000 yds.
Obtained fix and set course for 12 miles south of Balintang
Island.
0520 Radar contact on Balintang Island, bearing 310° T, 27,000 yds.
0554 Dived on station and patrolled area south of Balintang.
1510 Heard first of several very distant depth charges.
1602 Heard very weak pinging bearing 310° T. Depth charging
continuing - must be at least 20 or 30 miles away. I also
estimate the pinging must have been at least 15 miles away as it
was extremely weak and we soon lost it.
1700 Changed zone description to minus eight time. All times
from here on are (H) unless otherwise specified.
1910 Surfaced and set course 270° T to tomorrow's pre-arranged
patrol area. Picked up SJ interference throughout the night.

December 15.
0330 Exchanged recognition signals with a friendly submarine,
probably Sea Dog.
0534 Dived on station. Patrolled all day at periscope depth in
a number one sea - visibility unlimited. Uneventful.
1850 Surfaced.
2230 Received orders from Pack Commander to patrol shipping lane -
Philippine Sea to Formosa Strait. Set course 270° T at four
engine speed.

December 16.
0000 State of sea increased to four, wind 20 knots, both from 050° T.
Must remain on surface until 0800 to reach station.
0627 Sighted floating spherical mine 300 yds on starboard bow.
(Mine contact # 1). Posit: Lat. 19-52.8 N, Long. 117-00.5 E.
Mine was very rusty and had numerous horns. About 3 feet in
diameter. Sat very high in the water. Did not reverse course
to sink it because seas had increased to state six, and we were in
a hurry to reach station by 0800.
No fix this morning or last night because of a heavy overcast.
0759 Dived. Effective periscope depth patrolling impossible.
0928 Surfaced in number six sea, wind 40 to 50 knots. Remained
on surface remainder of day, patrolling, and fixed ship's position
with a series of sunlines. No contacts.

-4-

— page 12 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
December 17.
Seas and wind are still very strong.
0602 Dived. Periscope depth control impossible.
1322 Surfaced and made surface patrol remainder of the day;
seas still state six and wind about 40 knots. Boat way to east-
ward at 8 knots to rejoin pack.

December 18.
0629 Dived into a heavy sea.
1355 Surfaced. Boat way to eastward into a heavy sea.

December 19.
0200 Upon orders of Pack Commander changed course to 240° T, to
patrol on Scouting Line across South China Sea - Formosa Strait
Trade Lane.
0615 Dived. Seas reduced to state 4.5.
1740 Surfaced. Seas extremely heavy and wind about 40 knots -
both from 040° T.
2135 Picked up radar interference to southwest. Challenged and
exchanged recognition signals with the Segundo.

December 20.
0105 Picked up radar interference to southeast. Challenged and
exchanged recognition signals with the Sealion.
0616 Dived.
1306 Surfaced and conducted surface patrol, Seas # 6, wind 40 knots.

December 21.
0030 Radar contact 5700 yds, either Sealion or Segundo.
0417 Received message from Pack Commander to patrol a special
area in 11 Destro. Changed course to 330° T.
0638 Dived for trim.
0830 Surfaced.

December 22.
0630 Dived.
0907 Surfaced. Seas have abated, state # 2. Conducting surface
patrol. At
2305 Sea had abated to number one. Decided to take advantage of this
good weather to convert # 4 FBT to a main ballast tank to improve
the sea worthiness of the boat since we had been taking a beating
in the heavy seas caused by the N.E. monsoons.

                                                                -5-

— page 13 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

December 22 (Cont'd)
Slowed to 8 knots and headed into slight swell. There were no
white caps. Sent 3 auxiliarymen on deck equipped with proper
tools and wearing life belts. Two auxiliarymen were in the
superstructure and one was tending them on deck. Commanding
Officer, Navigator, as well as Officer of the deck, were on the
bridge and a Quartermaster was stationed aft on cigarette deck
to watch men working on deck. At
2325 Received freak cross sea which swept across deck aft, about
one foot deep. Quartermaster saw man go overboard to port. Man
was lying flat on deck when he went over the side and it is
believed that he was injured by striking his head on 5" gun or
deck. He made no outcry and did not struggle. Immediately
went to man-over-board stations, cut in Dead Reckoning Tracer
(DRT), and maneuvered ship to recover man. Man lost was GRIFFIN,
Thomas Wilson, 842-34-29, MoMM2c, V-6, USNR. GRIFFIN was an
excellent swimmer and had life belt. Put eight lookouts on
watch and with alternate calling and listening and use of DRT
searched area for seven hours during darkness. A two mile square
about the point was searched.

December 23. At
0401 Contacted Guardfish by SJ radar. She informed us she would
assist in our search. At daylight she joined us for a coordinated
search. With her help and use of DRT searched during next six hour
period a ten mile square about the point GRIFFIN was lost over-
board. No results. The search was given up as hopeless at 1115
as the man was not on the surface of the water. It is believed
that he was injured and sank immediately after going over the
side. Position of Lat. 20-16.0 N, Long. 114-56.0 E.
0847 Guardfish dived.
0850 Dived. Had APR contact 145 m.c. (A/C # 4).
0856 Exchanged signals with Guardfish by QC. She informed us
she had SD contact 8 miles.
0914 Surfaced and resumed search.
1057 Lookout sighted Mavis on port beam, 6 miles. (A/C # 5). Dived.
1110 Informed Guardfish by QC we sighted enemy plane. She informed
us she had SD contact 6 miles, closing.
1115 Notified Guardfish, "Search completed". At
1334 Surfaced and set westerly course.

-6-

— page 14 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

December 24.
0625 Port lookout sighted 4 unidentified ships bearing 192° T.
(S/C # 2). SD radar could not pick them up, but they looked
large and looked like they had a zero anle on the bow. Since
our SJ had been giving us some trouble we thought it was out of
commission. Only 45 minutes to sunrise, so at
0632 Dived for submerged approach.
0700 Came up to SD radar mast depth and sent contact report to
wolves 1 and 2. Did not ret a receipt from either one.
0755 Ships identified as 4 large sailing junks. Secured from
Battle Stations.
0758 Back to SD radar mast depth, and sent cancellation of contact
report. No receipt.
1016 When junks were clear, surfaced. Junks bore 210° T, distance
about ten miles. Their course 210° T. Ran to southward to get
ahead of junks to look over their armament. At
1240 Sighted floating mine. (Mine contact # 2). Lat. 19-30 N,
Long. 113-07.5 E. As junks sails were plainly visible on horizon
did not stop to shoot at mine. At
1252 Submerged ahead of junks. At
1300 Took fathometer single ping sounding because it was believed
St. Esprit shoal was nearby. Depth 50 fathoms. At
1305 Depth 30 fathoms. At
1310 Depth 10 fathoms. At
1311 Depth 3 fathoms. At
1312 Depth 2 fathoms. "Surface". Clearea area and at
1328 Dived. Waiting for junks. Did not appear so at
1608 Surfaced. Junks bore 290° T. They had changed course to
the westward. Began end around. At
1752 Dived ahead of junks. Ran toward them at standard speed
submerged. At
1845 Surfaced. It was too dark to see more than 100 yds through
the periscope. At
1925 Got pips on two of the junks at range of 4000 and 5000 yds.
Too dark to see them. Star ted tracking. They had reversed course
to the north! This looked very suspicious. Since the armament
of these vessels was not known and because of darkness it was
impossible to see them through the gun sights, it was decided not
to attack them.

December 25. Merry Christmas.
0000 Exchanred recognition signals with Cuardfish.
0631 Dived.
1707 Surfaced.

-7-

— page 15 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS.407)

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

December 26.
0020 Exchanged recognition signals with Sea Dog by SJ.
0636 Dived.
0900 Surfaced. Seas are building up to state 4.
1304 Sighted Betty coming out of clouds on port bow. SJ radar
got a pip at 9500 yds. Dived. (A/C # 6).
1610 Surfaced.
1637 Sighted Mavis on starboard beam, distant eight miles.
Dived. (A/C # 7).
1649 Surfaced. All clear. Set course to close Hainan Island.

December 27.
0230 Received message from China reporting a south bound convoy
north of Hainan and a north bound convoy south of Hainan.
0530 Picked up land by SJ radar 282° T, distant 20 miles.
0554 Call away tracking party because of three new pips on radar.
Tracked, and the speed was zero. Turned out to be False Tinhosa
Island and surrounding islands.
0645 Dived 15 miles east of Tinhosa Island. At
0825 Picked up echo ranging bearing 270° T in direction of Tinhosa
Island. Changed course toward pinging, and when it was found that
bearings were drawing to northward came to the normal approach
course. Visibility very poor, heavy clouds and rain squalls. At
0846 Sighted AK and DE escort. (S/C # 3). Range 8000 yards with
angle on bow of 120° starboard. DE was at 6000 yds range with angle
on bow of 25 starboard. Hung on waiting for a zig in our direction.
At
0855 Soundman reported DE had contact. Raised periscope and found
DE at range of 3000 yards, angle on bow zero, with a big bow wave -
with a second escort, angle on the bow 90 starboard, swinging
rapidly to starboard in our direction. Went to 200 feet (fathometer
reading an hour before gave 36 fathoms) and rigged for depth charge.
Evaded by fish-tailing at 70 RPM. Although escorts raced back an
forth for an hour, with both of them echo ranging, they seemed
unable to reestablish contact. At
0956 With echo ranging getting weaker and screws heard very faintly
came to periscope depth. Nothing in sight except rain squall close
aboard. At
1018 Sighted escort at about 10,000 yards in direction of convoy
which had disappeared, but he was soon lost to view. Since convoy
was now in shallow water to the north of Tinhosa Island, decided
to close coast and wait for southbound convoy reported by Chung-
king. At
1804 Surfaced. The southbound convoy must have gone through Hainan
Strait.

-8-

— page 16 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

December 28.
0635 Dived 9 miles to east of Tinhosa Island in hopes of
intercepting convoy reported by China planes.
1230 Surfaced 15 miles off Tinhosa Island and made several SJ
radar sweeps. Fixed our position. Definitely no shipping along
the Hainan Coast so far today. Seas are fairly heavy.
1312 Dived to continue submerged patrol.
1445 Surfaced 12 miles off Hainan Coast. Commenced surface
patrol to eastward in hopes that reported convoy might be trying
to ease up to Hong Kong via a route several miles off the Hainan
Coast.
1743 Sighted floating spherical mine. (Mine contact # 3).
Posit: Lat. 18-40.2 N, Long. 110-50.2 E. Circled and attempted
to sink it with carbine fire. Mine was hit several times at
ranges of 150 to 250 yards. Bullets seemed to glance off, and none
of the shots hit the chemical horns. Abandoned attempt incident
to darkness.
1900 Exchanged recognition signals by SJ radar with Sea Dog. Sent
Sea Dog our position and informed her that we believed all shipping
was hugging the coast, although the reported convoy was not sighted
today. Patrolled area to eastward of Hainan Island during the
night.

December 29.
0647 Dived 10 miles southeast of Tinhosa Island.
1517 Surfaced.
1849 Transmitted message to NKN in accordance with ComSubPac
instructions. Changed course to eastward to shift areas.

December 30.
0530 Swept for trim.
0804 Surfaced.
0920 APR contact 140 m.c.; dived. (A/C # 8).
1009 Surfaced; all clear.
1230 Received message from Pack Commander to change course to
240° T, speed 18. Changed course to 240° T, speed 18, and
wondered what the dope was. Guardfish did not get the message.
At about
1400 Sea Dog informed us that China reported that a 20 ship
convoy was beating to the southward along Hainan. Set course to
intercept.
1905 Changed course to 270° T to intercept convoy south of Hainan -
between Hainan and Tourane.

                                                                -9-

— page 17 —
U.S.S. SEA ROEIN (SS/07)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

December 30 (Cont'd)
2120 APR contact; dived.
2137 Surfaced. APR contact, 195 m.c. It was an air search
radar, hand trained, located at Yulinkan Bay, Jap naval base
on southern Hainan. See paragraph on radar for details of this
set. When naval base bore 350° T, distant 17 miles changed
course to north to sweep up the coast. No contacts.
2200 Picked up strong 10 cm radar interference on SJ radar (not SJ)
which came from direction of Yulinkan Bay. Appeared to be a
powerful set (See paragraph U).
2343 APR contact 155 m.c. Dived. (A/C # 9).

December 31
0007 Surfaced and continued sweep up the east coast of Hainan.
0010 Exchanged recognition and messages with Sea Dog giving her the
area and results of our search. Sea Dog's search was negative.
She ordered us to patrol area eastward of Hainan after we completed
our search for convoy. Continued search up east coast of Hainan.
0641 Dived 10 miles off Tinhosa Island for submerged patrol.
1810 Surfaced and spent New Year's Eve on surface patrol with no
contacts. Ordered by Sea Dog to patrol same area tomorrow.

January 1
0625 Dived for submerged patrol 10 miles east of Tinhosa Island
off coast of Hainan.
1758 Surfaced. Patrolled on 090° T along 18°-30' (N) until midnite.

January 2
0015 APR contact, rather weak, 175 m.c. (A/C # 10).
0020 APR contact getting weaker but suddenly picked up plane on
SJ radar at 11,000 yds coming in, so dived. His pip on APR
was much weaker but SJ showed him coming in fast. He
must have decreased his power as he came in.
0049 Came up to APR depth. all clear. Surfaced. Changed course
to 270° T, to close coast.
0115 Dived, 10 miles east of Tinhosa Island.
0710 Echo ranging bearing 015° T. Changed course to 015° T and
went to battle stations.
0743 Sighted smoke bearing 015° T. (S/C # 4). At
0755 Sighted single ship on the bow 15 port, so changed course to
030° T. At
0800 Sighted three or four ships, with a 20° starboard angle on
the bow. Changed course to 030° T. At
0806 Angle on the bow was again port so came around to 280° T.

-10-

— page 18 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
January 2 (Cont'd)
Formation consisted of a DE leading with two unidentified AK's
in column astern. Range still about 8000 yds. At
0816 Changed course to 300° T. Tried to get an ST radar range,
but with no results. On the observations between 0806 and 0816
the convoy was seen only once or twice incident to rain squalls.
During this time it was found that convoy consisted of three AK's
escorted by a DE. JP picked up their screws, but neither QB
nor JK could hear anything except pinging by the DE. On our
last observation we were closing the track rapidly. At
0832 Rain squalls completely blotted out the targets and they
were never seen again. Their sound bearings no longer drew to
the southward and screws and pinging gradually became weaker.
They had zigged 90° away from us and headed in toward Tinhosa
Island. It is believed they anchored in against the Hainan Coast
in shallow water. During the period the targets were lost in
rain squalls, repeated attempts were made to obtain ST radar
ranges but to no avail, although we could pick up Tinhosa Island
at 15,000 yds. At
0842 We could hear weak pinging bearing 264° T. At
0850 Came up to 50 ft. All we could pick up was Tinhosa Island
distant 15,000 yds. At
0858 Came up to 40 feet and swept with SJ. No ship contacts.
It was now definite that the convoy had put in toward the coast
of Hainan. At
0904 Surfaced and ran south to get up ahead of them and to sweep
the coast with radar to see if they were trying to hug the coast.
Sent report of contact to rest of wolf pack but could raise only
the Sea Dog who receipted for the message. Copied Chungking
schedule, but there was nothing for us. Visibility picked up and
one of the lookouts reported he thought he saw masts against
Tinhosa Island, but closer inspection revealed them to be on the
Island. Ran to the south and then closed Hainan to ten miles.
Nothing sighted. Turned northward to sweep the coast toward
Tinhosa Island. At
1055 Dived for APR contact 155 m.c. (A/C # 11).
1158 Surfaced and closed Tinhosa Island to 11 miles. Ships are
definitely not proceeding south along coast. They must have
anchored in behind Tinhosa Island. Water around and behind
Tinhosa Island varies from 20 to 6 fathoms with water over 40
fathoms ten miles away so cannot attack convoy at anchorage.
At no time was the visibility good enough to identify any ships
except to determine that the escort was a DE and the others were
freighters.

-11-

— page 19 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

January 2 (Cont'd)
1215 Dived to blockade Tinhosa from the south and east. This
episode was very discouraging for it looked like we were going
to get an attack in for certain. The "Early Bird" is having a
hard time finding a nest to lay her first batch of eggs.
1900 Surfaced. All clear.

January 3.
Patrolled off Leong Sui Point during the night blockading convoy
of Tinhosa.
0500 Picked up radar interference from direction of Tinhosa
anchorage on SJ radar screen (10 cm interference, not SJ). Coached
soundmen on bearing, 300° T, and he picked up pinging. (S/C # 5).
Picked up four contacts on radar in direction of pinging, very close
to the beach. Range 22,000 yards. It appeared as if our targets
which anchored at Tinhosa yesterday, were getting underway and head-
ing south. Convoy at present in 7 to 20 fathoms of water. Changed
course to south. At
0609 Picked up SJ radar interference from the southeast. Exchanged
recognition and calls - it was the Kraken. Sent contact report
to her of our convoy by SJ. At
0628 APR contact 155 m.c. (A/C # 12). At
0642 Dived off Gialong Point, which bore 315° T, distant 9 miles.
Convoy did not pass between us and land. It appeared as if they
may have taken departure from land on a southerly or southeasterly
course. At
0912 Surfaced and set course 150° T, speed 17 to make retiring
search to the south and southeast. No contacts during search. At
1300 Changed course to get back into assigned area.
1830 Sent weather report to ComSubPac and since we had already
disclosed our position sent a message to Chungking.

January 4.
0635 Dived for submerged patrol off Tinhosa Island.
0901 Sighted Betty headed in toward Tinhosa at a range of 4 miles.
(A/C # 13).
1750 Surfaced.

January 5.
0628 Dived for submerged patrol off Tinhosa Island.
1238 Sighted ship bearing 280° T distant 14,000 yards, angle on the
bow 60 starboard, coming out from behind Tinhosa Island. (S/C # 6).
Went to battle stations submerged and commenced approach.

-12-

— page 20 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
January 5 (Cont'd)
1247 Convoy in sight now, 1 DE, 1 AP and 2 AK's. Course 030° T,
speed 9. Angle on the bow never less than 60° starboard except for
DE. Minimum range 12,000 yards. Ships were close to the coast
and in shallow water.
1320 Sighted Patrol plane which was air escort. (A/C # 14).
1335 Range of convoy opening so changed course to 090° T to get
clear enough to surface and make end around.
1453 Surfaced and commenced end around at 17 knots. Sent contact
report to Sea Dog.
1715 Received message from Sea Dog. She informed us she would
attempt interception of our convoy north of Toncon Point. At
1900 Arrived 10 miles off Toncon Point. No sign of convoy.
Patrolled that vicinity. At
1946 APR contact 175 m.c. coming in strong. Dived. (A/C # 15). At
2000 Came up to APR depth. Strong APR contact, 175 m.c.
2015 Came up to APR depth. Strong APR contact.
2030 Came up to APR depth. Strong APR contact. He certainly is
giving our area a good going over.
2045 Came up to APR depth. No contact. Surfaced. Convoy should
have been here by now.
2135 Picked up SJ interference. Exchanged recognition signals with
Sea Dog and informed her that convoy had not yet reached Toncon
Point, and that it probably had stopped at a port enroute. At
2340 Radar contact bearing 160° T distant 14,000 yds. (S/C # 7). At
2345 Picked up four or five ships on radar on same bearing. Sent
contact report to Sea Dog. Tracked convoy. Course 047° T, speed 7.

January 6.
0015 Pack Commander informed us he would take starboard flank. At
0030 Sea Dog sent message stating that rear target was SC and
asked if leading targets were worth shooting at. Sent back
affirmative. At
0056 Sea Dog sent, "Attack when in position". At
0056 With target course and speed checking on 040° T and 7 knots,
started surface attack on leading target and her escort. At
0105 Began firing Mk 18 torpedoes forward. Fired three at leading
target at range of 3000 yards with 104° port track and 347° gyro.
At
0106 Fired three torpedoes at escort which was overlapping leading
target at a range of 2535 yards. At
0108:45 Saw explosion against target from bridge which consisted
of a large flash and a column of smoke and water which hid target
from view. This explosion was heard throughout the boat. Nine
seconds later there was a second explosion. This target is believed

-13-

— page 21 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

January 6 (Cont'd)
to be 6000 ton AK which was leading convoy when it was sighted
yesterday. Got set up on second target in column for stern tube
shot but line of bearing of targets was such that range was too
great. Pulled out while Sea Dog made attack. All torpedoes fired
were set on depth of five feet. It is believed that number four
and five which were fired at overlapping escort ran under escort
and hit main target.
Tracking target and reloading torpedoes. At
0120 Escort went alongside damaged vessel. At
0138 Sea Dog started attack. At
0143 Sea Dog sent message to Sea Robin to attack immediately. At
0150 Started surface attack on target on port quarter of convoy.
This ship had become separated from convoy by several thousand
yards. At
0212 Fired three bow Mark 18 torpedoes at small AK at a range of
2700 yards, torpedo run of 2520, with a track 84° port and a
gyro 006°. Swung ship to bring stern tubes to bear and waited
for him to blow up. It was impossible to miss with a spread of
450 feet which would give a speed coverage of from 2.6 to 10.6
kts. We had him clocked at 6.6 knots. Those torpedoes were set
at 4 feet depth.
0218 No explosions yet. Fired three Mark 23 torpedoes from stern
tubes at a range of 3200 yds, spread 450 feet, with 120 port track
and 10 right gyro. No explosions. The only explanation I can
give for this is that it must have been flat bottomed and the
fish ran under target. Ten minutes later setup was still checking
with plot and TDC, using radar ranges and TBT bearings.
0221 Sent attack message to Sea Dog.
0233 Sent results of attacks to Sea Dog.
0251 Received message to attack at discretion from Sea Dog.
And that she had attacked escort and that escort had returned
compliments with gun fire and was pursuing Sea Dog to the eastward.
By this time convoy was well scattered with all targets well to
the southward except last target at which we had fired torpedoes.
0310 Started in for torpedo attack on this AK with torpedoes set
on zero depth. At this time picked up pip of escort who had joined
our target since last attack. At a range of 5000 yards escort
turned toward us and started closing range rapidly. Reversed
course and put escort astern. Incident to moonrise visibility
had increased until we could see bow wave but not hull of escort
at 5000 yards. Gradually opened range and at 8000 yards escort
gave up chase.

-14-

— page 22 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

January 6 (Cont'd)
0825 Changed course to northwest to run around escort
attack target. When range to target was 8000 yds, we picked
up two more escorts at a range of 5000 yds between us and
target, and coming in fast. Do not know where these two new
escorts came from but they must have been reenforcements from
Hainan Strait Area. We were now boxed off completely from
target. The original escort at this time also picked us up
and joined the fracas. We had one bearing 260° T at 6060 yds,
one at 310° T range 5000 yds, and one at 000° T at a range of
5600 yds. All closing. Reversed course at full speed and
retired graciously to the southeast. We soon out ran escorts
and lost them by turning to the south. Further search failed
to reveal balance of convoy to the south so at
0620 Dived for submerged patrol and to rest officers and crew.
At
1759 Surfaced and made surface patrol to the northeastern part
of area.
2235 APR contact at 115 m.c. Believed to be SD of Sea Dog.

January 7.
0720 Dived. At
1250 Surfaced for surface patrol. At
1329 Sighted Betty and dived. (A/C # 16). At
1518 Surfaced. At
1525 Sighted several sailing craft bearing 090° on a south-
westerly course. (S/C # 8).
1530 Started end-around to look over these vessels.
1719 Dived ahead of sailing vessels and closed targets submerged.
Became too dark to see targets so surfaced and proceeded to
southwest ahead of targets. Gunner's mates and auxiliarymen
spent the night manufacturing a new seat for 5" gun. Heavy seas
had carried away the trainer's seat. At daylight, with guns all
set, began search for targets. Was unable to locate targets.

January 8. At
1204 Dived for trim. At
1300 Surfaced. At
1439 Sighted floating spherical mine. (Mine contact # 4).
Lat. 19-25 N, Long. 111-35 E. At
1505 Sank mine with .50 cal. machine gun fire. At
1932 Radar contact range 5600 yards bearing 047° T. Avoided when
It was identified as a Sugar Charlie type patrol craft. Do not
believe he sighted us. (S/C # 9).

-15-

— page 23 —
U.S.S. SEA ROLIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
January 8 (Cont'd)
Made surface patrol during night from Toncon Point to Tinhosa
Island along coast of Hainan.

January 9. American Forces landed at Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, P.I.
At
0230 Received message from Chungking informing us plane would
patrol between Tourane and Hong Kong every six hours. Shifted
RBO to radio room to permit standing continuous watches on NPM,
plane frequency, and wolf pack frequency. See paragraph on radio
concerning these arrangements. At
0655 Dived for trim. At
0811 Surfaced and conducted surface patrol along trade lanes from
Indo-China to Hong Kong. At
1930 Received dispatch from ComSubPac changing our area to a joint
zone.
During the night closed Toncon Point and patrolled to the south-
westward along the Hainan coast.

January 10
0630 Dived for trim. At
0800 Sighted B-24 passing overhead. (A/C # 17).
0805 Surfaced for surface patrol to the eastward of Hainan.
0843 Sighted unidentified plane bearing 280° T, distance 8 miles.
(A/C # 18). Dived. At
0940 Surfaced and continued patrol. At
1333 Sighted plane at 6 miles. (A/C # 19). Dived. Believe this
was B-24 search plane from China. At
1356 Surfaced and continued patrol.

January 11
0050 APR contact 175 m.c. weak.
0104 APR contact 175 m.c. strong. Dived (A/C # 20).
0125 Surfaced.
0715 Sighted large oil slick 3 by 4 miles. Sighted debris as
follows throughout the morning.
    1. Wrecked lifeboat, capsized.
    2. Wood hatch covers with Jap markings.
    3. Large mahogany desk.
    4. Book case.
    5. Thousands of soy beans or some grain similar to soy beans.
    6. Bamboo poles.
    7. Hundreds of pieces of cabinet wood. Several timbers.

                                                                -16-

— page 24 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)

                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

January 11 (Cont'd)
1050 Attempted to recover large mahogany desk to inspect drawers
     for papers. The location of debris and oil slick checked
     accurately with the location of the ship torpedoed by us on
     6 January, considering set and drift of current which we had
     experienced. In view of this it is believed that the ship
     attacked by Sea Robin was sunk.
1102 APR contact 155 m.c., strong. (A/C # 21). Appeared to be
1050 Submerged. Visibility was low. Dived.
1305 Surfaced, attempted to relocate desk, but was unsuccessful
     because of a number four sea.

January 12
0627 Dived for trim.
0950 Surfaced and conducted surface patrol.
1510 APR contact 152 m.c. (A/C # 22). Dived.
1710 Surfaced.

January 13
0245 Received message from China search plane that a convoy of 11
     unidentified ships were at Lat. 19-43 N, Long. 112-11 E, either on
     course 040° T or 220° T. Took course and speed to intercept in case
     they were on 220° T. At time of receipt of this message we were
     proceeding to our lifeguard station. Decided to arrive on life-
     guard station 2 or 3 hours after dawn in order to get a crack at
     reported convoy.
0530 Convoy must have been on 040° T or changed course. Perhaps they
0540 changed course because contact was sent to us in plain language,
     unauthenticated from the 1270 series.
0603 APR contact 120 m.c. At same instant SJ gave a contact at
     6000 yds. At first thought it was a plane, so we dived. After a
     quick conference, decided it must be a sub's SD, keyed. Boarfish
     was soon due to pass thru this area.
0635 JP, QB, QC picked up screws. (S/C # 10).
0640 Sighted friendly submarine.
0645 Surfaced and exchanged signals. USS Boarfish. Gave her
     dope about reported convoy and then set course at four engine speed
     to lifeguard station.
1249 Sighted unidentified plane, range 6 miles. (A/C # 23).
1830 Surface patrol all day near lifeguard station.

                                                                -17-

— page 25 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
January 14.
Received message from ComSubPac that carrier attacks would last
another day or so in the Indo-China vicinity. Also for us to
patrol near lifeguard station.
0636 Dived for trim.
0908 Surfaced.
1022 Sighted Betty at six miles. Dived. (A/C # 24).
1025 At periscope depth, Betty circling in our vicinity. Believe
that Betty saw us. Decided to let her burn up some fuel.
1210 Received message informing us we would refit at Fremantle,
and to pass to OpControl Task Force 71 at 1200 Z 16 January.

January 15.
0625 Dived for trim.
0910 Surfaced.
1040 Received message from NKN stating that a 2 stack AK was
near eastern edge of our area at 0700(H) on course 065° T, speed 15.
(That course made her head into air-surface zone). Set course
at four engine speed to intercept in case AK was making slower
speed).
1240 Slowed to one engine speed to return to area. No contact.
1408 Sighted plane at 4 miles. (A/C # 25). Dived.
1515 Surfaced.
1600 Informed by ComSubPac to be on lifeguard station tomorrow.
1830 Sent weather report to ComSubPac.

January 16.
0620 Dived for trim.
0645 Surfaced and patrolled on lifeguard station.
0937 Sighted two flights of four planes each. Cut in SD; contact
at 20 miles, showing IFF. Sighted many friendly planes throughout
the day. Had SD contact on many flights which were never sighted
but showed IFF.
1400 Informed by planes there was no business for us.
2000 Commenced guarding Radio Perth (VIXO). Set course for
Fremantle.

                                                                -18-

— page 26 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)

                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

January 17-18.
Enroute Fremantle.

January 19.
0654 Dived.
0726 Surfaced.
1327 Sighted North Natuna Islands.
2030 Converted #3 and #5 FBT to MBT.
2330 Dived to wash out FBT's.

January 20.
0018 Surfaced.
0514 Picked up Tambelan Islands on radar.
0833 Submerged with Badas Islands ten miles to the south.
1400 Held "Crossing the Line" ceremonies.
1836 Surfaced.
2018 Dived under the Equator.
2021 Surfaced.

January 21.
0500 Began transit of Karimata Strait.
0625 Dived.
1905 Surfaced.

January 22.
0345 Picked up SJ interference from a northbound sub.
0620 Dived for trim.
0635 Surfaced.
0900 Dived for planes.
1003 Surfaced.
1330 Sighted Bawean Island.

January 23.
0430 Picked up Kangean Island on radar at 60,000 yds.
0608 Dived to patrol off Kangean Island. Numerous native fishing
boats were seen throughout the day.
1408 Sighted a patrolling DAVE thru the periscope.
1914 Surfaced and headed for Lombok Strait.

                                                                -19-

— page 27 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIALL

January 24.
0012 Exchanged challenges with Pargo by SJ. She informed us she
had had no contacts in Lombok Strait.
0230 Started through the Strait at 4 engine speed.
0400 Completed transit of Lombok Strait and set course for Fremantle.
0721 Dived for trim.
0838 Surfaced.

January 25.
Enroute Fremantle.

January 26.
0000 Picked up radar interference bearing 175° T on SJ.
0400 Picked up SJ radar interference bearing 295° T. The inter-
ference bearing 175° T was on continuously and the interference
bearing 295° T was on intermittent until after daylight. The
source of these interferences seemed to be on the same course
and speed as we were since the true bearing did not change
appreciably during a six hour period. Both sources were challenged
repeatedly by radar with no reply. Shortly after sunrise had a
210 mc contact on APR for a few minutes. At sunrise speeded up
to fifteen knots to overtake source of radar. At
1200 Since we had no information on southbound subs near us and
no information on subs using 210 mc radar, sent dispatch to CTG
Seventy One reporting interference.
1800 Received dispatch from CTG Seventy One stating that the only
subs near us were Guavina and Pampanito at Exmouth and that 210
mc interference probably came from Northwest Cape. Apparently we
were experiencing freak atmospheric conditions for we picked up
the SJ interference of these two boats over 230 miles away and
interference from Northwest Cape over 200 miles. The C.O. had a
similiar experience with freak conditions in this area in June
1943 when the Chanticleer was tracked out with a saturation pip
to over 40 miles with the old low power SJ radar.
1348 Dived for trim.
1400 Surfaced.

January 27-28.
Enroute Fremantle. Exchanged calls with Bashaw, tracked out to
38,000 yards.

January 29.
Arrived Fremantle. Conducted underway sound and degaussing tests.

-19a-

— page 28 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)

                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(C) WEATHER
        The weather in the South China Seas area followed very closely
the weather predicted by the China Seas and Philippine Pilots. Very
strong monsoon weather made periscope depth patrolling impossible
for about four days and very difficult throughout the patrol.
Several days we had to make 60 rpm to maintain depth. Wind and seas
were from 050° to 90° of the time in the area. No unusual weather
conditions were encountered.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION
        In the middle of the South China Seas, the set is generally
westerly at .5 to .8 knots.
        The currents along the East Coast of Hainan have a southerly
to southwesterly set from .5 to .9 knots. No unusual currents
were encountered.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
        No navigational aids were sighted. Balintang Island is an
excellent radar target for transitting Balintang Channel.
        Tinhosa Island (height 1083 feet) is excellent for fixing
ship's position off the southeastern Hainan coast. It is usually
picked up on the SJ at 60,000 yds. Other good radar targets along
Hainan are False Tinhosa Island, Lak-Lin (2040 feet), Mount Toncon
and the Taya Islands.

                                                                -20-

— page 29 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(F) SHIP CONTACTS

No. | Time | Lat. | Type | Initial | Estimated | How | Remarks
| Date | Long. | | Range | Course & | Contacted |
| | | | | | Speed | |
1 | 2207(I) | 20-27 | SS | 4590 | 113 | SJ | USS JACK
| Dec 11 | 130-26 | | yds | 13½ | | (SS259)

2 | 0625(H) | 19-58 | 4 | 12000 | 210 | Sight | 4 Junks (See
| Dec 24 | 113-22 | Junks | yds | 3 | | Narrative)

3 | 0825(H) | 18-34 | 4 Unk | 15000 | 030 | Sound | (See Narrat-
| Dec 27 | 110-33 | AK | yds | 12 | (pinging) | ive)
| | | 3 escorts | | | |

4 | 0742(H) | 18-36 | 3 Unk | 20000 | 190 | Sound | (See Narrat-
| Jan 2 | 110-38 | AK | yds | 11 | (pinging) | ive)
| | | 1 DE | | | |

5 | 0500(H) | 18-18 | 1 DE | 20000 | 210 | Radar | (See Narrat-
| Jan 3 | 110-14 | | yds | 10 | (interference) | ive)

6 | 1238(H) | 18-42 | 1 Unk | 15000 | 030 | P | (See Narrat-
| Jan 5 | 110-39 | AP 2 | yds | 9 | | ive).
| | | Unk AK | | | |
| | | 1 DE | | | |

7 | 2345(H) | 19-59 | 1 Unk | 14000 | 044 | SJ | Attacks # 1,
| Jan 5 | 111-43 | AP 2 | yds | 7 | | 2A & 2B (See
| | | Unk AK | | | | Believed same
| | | 1 DE | | | | # 6.

8 | 1525(H) | 19-48 | 10 | 12000 | 200 | Sight | (See Narrat-
| Jan 7 | 112-03 | Junks | yds | 3 | | ive)

9 | 1937(H) | 20-02 | 1 S | 5600 | Patrolling SJ & | | (See Narrat-
| Jan 8 | 111-57 | | yds | | Sight |

10 | 0635(H) | 19-31 | SS | 6400 | 200 | SJ | USS BOARFISH
| Jan 13 | 112-01 | | yds | 12 | |

-21-

— page 30 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(C) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
S Date | 12/9 | 12/11 | 12/11 | 12/23 | 12/23 | 12/26
U Time (Zone) | 1358(K) | 0934(I) | 1050(I) | 0855(H) | 1052(H) | 1305(H)
B Position: Lat. | 15-50 | 19-26 | 19-33 | 20-22 | 20-22 | 19-21
M Long. | 144-37 | 136-54 | 136-43 | 115-54 | 115-50 | 112-11
A Speed | 16 | 11 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 10
R Course | 290 | 282 | 282 | 000 | 000 | 090
I Trim | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf
N Minutes Since Last | Not in | Not in | Not in | Not in | Not in | Not in
E SD Radar Search | Use | Use | Use | Use | Use | Use
—

— page 31 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(C) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12
S Date | 12/26 | 12/30 | 12/30 | 12/31 | 1/1 | 1/3
U Time (Zone) | 1637(H) | 0926(H) | 2343(H) | 0020(H) | 1055(H) | 0628(H)
B Position: Lat. | 19-13 | 18-49 | 17-50 | 18-38 | 18-25 | 18-06
M Long. | 112-10 | 112-29 | 110-04 | 110-34 | 110-25 | 110-01
A Speed | 10 | 10 | 18 | 10 | 18 | 10
R Course | 180 | 080 | 270 | 090 | 030 | 090
I Trim | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf
N Minutes Since Last | Not in | Not in | Not in | Not in | Not in | Not in
E SD Radar Search | Use | Use | Use | Use | Use | Use

A Number | One | One | One | One | One | One
I Type | Mavis | Unk | Unk | Unk | Unk | Unk
R Probable Mission | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Unk | Pat.
R How Contacted | Sight | APR | APR | APR & SJ | APR | APR
C Initial Range | 7.5 mi. | Unk | Unk | 11000 yds | Unk | Unk
R Elevation Angle | 10 | Unk | Unk | Unk | Unk | Unk
A Range & Relative
F Bearing of Plane | N.D. | N.D. | N.D. | N.D. | N.D. | N.D.
T When It Detected | | | | | | 1
S/M

CONDITIONS
C Sea: (State (Beau- | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2
O Fort)
N (Direction (Rel)020 | 000. | 160 | 340 | 010 | 000
D Visibility (Miles) 15 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 6
I (Height in
T Clouds: ( Ft. | 10000 | 2500 | 2500 | 2800 | 3000 | 2500
I (Percent
O Overcast | .9 | .9 | .9 | .8 | .6 | .5
N (Bearing(Rel) Day | Day | Obscured | Obscured | Day | Day
S Moon: (Angle
(Percent
Illum.

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Ocean Gray.

-23-

— page 32 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER                                  13      14      15      16      17      18
S Date                                          1/4     1/5     1/5     1/7     1/10    1/10
U Time (Zone)                                   0901(H) 1240(H) 1946(H) 1329(H) 0800(H) 0843(H)
B Position: Lat.                                18-36   18-42   19-34   20-11   18-34   18-35
M Long.                                         110-37  110-38  111-10  111-54  110-47  110-51
A Speed                                         2       2       10      8       2       10
R Course                                        280     090     207     090     080     080
I Trim                                          Per.    Per.    Surf    Surf    Per.    Surf
N Minutes Since Last Not in Not in Not in Not in Not in Not in
E SD Radar Search                               Use     Use     Use     Use     Use     Use

A Number                                        One     One     One     One     One     One
I Type                                          Betty   Betty   Unk     Bomber  B-24    B-24
R Probable Mission                              Pat.    Esc.    Pat.    Pat.    Pat.    Pat.
C How Contacted                                 Sight   Sight   APR     Sight   Per.    Sight
R Initial Range                                 4 mi.   6 mi.   Unk     8 mi.   2 mi.   12 mi.
A Elevation Angle                               8°      5°      Unk     5°      3°      1°
F Range & Relative
T Bearing of Plane                              N.D.    N.D.    N.D.    N.D.    N.D.    N.D.
WHEN It Detected S/M

C Sea: (State (Beau-                            3       3       4       3       5       5
O fort)                                         170     050     060     350     330     330
N (Direction (Rel)                              7       8       6       8       10      12
D Visibility (Miles)
I (Height in
T Clouds: ( Ft.                                 2800    2200    2000    3000    2200    2200
I (Percent
O Overcast                                      .4      .6      .7      .8      1.0     1.0
N (Bearing (Rel)                                Day     Day     Not up  Day     Day     Day
S Moon: (Angle
(Percent
Illum.

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Ocean Gray.

                                                                -24-

— page 33 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER | 19       | 20       | 21       | 22       | 23       | 24
S Date         | 1/10     | 1/11     | 1/11     | 1/12     | 1/13     | 1/14
U Time (Zone)  | 0136(H)  | 0050(H)  | 1102(H)  | 1510(H)  | 1249(H)  | 1022(H)
B Position: Lat.| 18-49    | 19-21    | 18-29    | 18-31    | 20-07    | 19-41
M Long.        | 111-19   | 111-13   | 110-50   | 110-39   | 111-28   | 111-29
A Speed        | 10       | 10       | 0        | 10       | 12       | 10
R Course       | 030      | 205      | 015      | 070      | 270      | 050
I Trim         | Surf     | Surf     | Surf     | Surf     | Surf     | Surf
N Minutes Since Last| Not in   | Not in   | Not in   | Not in   | Not in   | Not in
E SD Radar Search| Use      | Use      | Use      | Use      | Use      | Use
|
A Number       | One      | One      | One      | One      | One      | One
I Type         | B-24     | Unk      | Unk      | Unk      | Unk      | Betty
R Probable Mission| Pat.     | Pat.     | Pat.     | Pat.     | Pat.     | Pat.
C How Contacted| Sight    | APR      | APR      | APR      | Sight    | Sight
R Initial Range| 8 mi.    | Unk      | Unk      | Unk      | 8 mi.    | 5 mi.
A Elevation Angle| 2°       | Unk      | Unk      | Unk      | 2°       | 12°
F Range & Relative|          |          |          |          |          |
T Bearing of Plane| N.D.     | N.D.     | N.D.     | N.D.     | N.D.     | 5 mi.
  When It Detected|          |          |          |          |          | 000
  S/M          | (State (Beau-|          |          |          |          |
C Sea: (fort)  | 4        | 3        | 4        | 4        | 4        | 3
O (Direction(Rel)| 010      | 145      | 340      | 345      | 130      | 350
N Visibility (Miles)| 16       | 3        | 0.5      | 6        | 6        | 10
D (Height in   |          |          |          |          |          |
I Clouds: (Ft. | 4000     | 2000     | 200      | 1800     | 2500     | 2800
T (Percent     |          |          |          |          |          |
I Overcast     | .8       | .9       | 1.0      | 1.0      | 1.0      | 1.0
O (Bearing (Rel)| Day      | Not up   | Day      | Day      | Day      | Day
N Moon: (Angle |          |          |          |          |          |
S (Percent     |          |          |          |          |          |
  Illum.       |

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Ocean Gray.

-25-

— page 34 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| CONTACT NUMBER | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S Date | 1/15 | 1/16 | 1/22 | 1/23 |
| U Time (Zone) | 1408(H) | 0900(H)- | 0900(H) | 1408(H) |
| | | 1600(H) | | |
| B Position: Lat. | 19-27 | 19-40 | 05-00 S | 7-14 S |
| M Long. | 111-57 | 111-20 | 111-18 | 115-17 |
| A Speed | 10 | 10 | 15 | 10 |
| R Course | 330 | - | 189 | 170 |
| I Trim | Surf | Surf | Surf | Sub |
| N Minutes Since Last | Not in | Keyed | Not in | Not in |
| E SD Radar Search | Use | | Use | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A Number | One | Numerous | One | One |
| I Type | B-24 | F6F - TBF | Betty | Dave |
| R Probable Mission | Pat. | Air | Pat. | Pat. |
| C | | strike | | |
| R How Contacted | Sight | Sight & | Sight | Per. |
| A | | SD | | |
| F Initial Range | 4 mi. | 10-20 Mi. | 8 mi. | 4 mi. |
| T Elevation Angle | 20° | - | 4° | 10° |
| | Range & Relative | | | | |
| | Bearing of Plane | N.D. | - | N.D. | N.D. |
| | When it Detected | | | | |
| | S/M | | | | |

CONDITIONS
| C Sea: (Beaufort) | 4 | 4 | 1 | 1 |
| O (Direction(Rel) | 060 | | 270 | 090 |
| N Visibility (Miles) | 7 | 5-12 | 30 | 20 |
| D (Height in | | 2000- | | |
| I Clouds: (Ft. | 2600 | 3500 | 3000 | 3000 |
| T (Percent | | | | |
| I Overcast | 1.0 | .0 | .5 | .3 |
| O Moon: (Bearing(Rel) | Day | Day | Day | Day |
| N (Angle | | | | |
| S (Percent | | | | |
| | Illum. | | | | |

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Ocean Gray.

-26-

— page 35 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. SEA ROBIN. .TORPEDO ATTACK NO.(1). .PATROL NO.(1)
Time 0105(H). .Date January 6, 1945. .Lat.19-40.5 N Long.111-24.6 E.

                                        Target Data - Damage inflicted

Description                       Convoy consisting of 1 AP, 2 AK and several
                                  escorts. Contact was made by SJ radar at
                                  14,000 yds. Visibility about 4,000 yds. No. 3
                                  sea from northeast. This convoy sighted while
                                  submerged on January 5, 1945.

Ship(s) Sunk                      One unidentified 6000 ton AP. (EU)

Ship(s) Damaged                   None

Damage Determined by              Hearing and seeing torpedoes hit on target.
                                  At 0745(H) on 11 January 1945 we encountered
                                  a heavy oil slick covering about 3 miles by
                                  4 miles and debris in the area where this
                                  target was hit. The following debris was
                                  sighted: A wrecked life boat, bookcase, desk,
                                  and hatch covers with Jap markings. The ocean
                                  was thickly covered with soy beans, hundreds
                                  of pieces of timbers, interior woodwork,
                                  bamboo, and oil.

Target Draft 8 1/2 ft. Course 044° T Speed 7 knots Range 3,000 yds.
at firing.

                                                          Own Ship Data

Course 130° T Speed 10 knots Surface.

                                                  Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Surface Attack                    The targets were the leading ship in the
                                  convoy and the escort on her port bow which
                                  was overlapping.

                                        -27-

— page 36 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

Tubes Fired                                     #1      #2      #3      #4      #5      #6
Track Angle                                     104 P   105 P   105 P   112 P   114 P   114 P
Depth set                                       5 ft.   5 ft.   5 ft.   5 ft.   5 ft.   5 ft.
Power                                           Hi      Hi      Hi      Hi      Hi      Hi
Hit or Miss                                     Miss    Miss    Miss    Hit     Hit     Miss
Erratic                                         -
Mark Torpedo                                    18-1    18-1    18-1    18-1    18-1    18-1
Serial No.                                      55542   55963   56337   55648   55163   55777
Mark Exploder                                   8-5     8-5     8-5     8-5     8-5     8-5
Serial No.                                      10177   9754    9615    9428    10085   9646
Actuation Set                                   Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual                                --      --      --      Contact Contact --
Mark Warhead                                    18-2    18-2    18-2    18-2    18-2    18-2
Serial No.                                      3769    1583    1479    1452    1352    1477
Explosive                                       Torpex  Torpex  Torpex  Torpex  Torpex  Torpex
Firing Interval                                 --      10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec.
Type Spread                                     Div.    Div.    Div.    Div.    Div.    Div.
Sea Conditions                                  No. 3   No. 3   No. 3   No. 3   No. 3   No. 3
Overhaul Activity                               Sub     Sub     Sub     Sub     Sub     Sub
                                                Base    Base    Base    Base    Base    Base
                                                PH, TH  PH, TH  PH, TH  PH, TH  PH, TH  PH, TH

Remarks: All torpedoes made normal runs. We believe the misses were
         caused by the shallow drafts of the targets.

                                                                -28-

— page 37 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. SEA ROBIN. . TORPEDO ATTACK NO. (2A). PATROL NO. (1)
Time 0212(H). Date January 6, 1945. Lat.19-43 N Long. 111-23.8 E.

                                        Target Data - Damage inflicted

Description                       One AK separated from the convoy previously
                                  fired at in torpedo attack No. (1)

Ship(s) Sunk                      None

Ship(s) Damaged                   None

Damage Determined by              No hits.

Target Draft 8 ft. Course 050° T Speed 6.6 knots Range 2700 yds at
firing.

                                        Own Ship Data

Course 140° T Speed 10 knots Surface.

                                        Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Surface Attack                    One 3000 ton AK on port quarter of convoy
                                  which had become separated from convoy by
                                  several thousand yards.

                                        -29-

— page 38 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

                                                                # 4           # 5           # 6
Tubes Fired
Track Angle                                                     084 P         084 P         085 P
Depth set                                                       4 ft.         4 ft.         4 ft.
Power                                                           Hi            Hi            Hi
Hit or Miss                                                     Miss          Miss          Miss
Erratic                                                         --            --            --
Mark Torpedo                                                    18-1          18-1          18-1
Serial No.                                                      56377         55592         56447
Mark Exploder                                                   4-7           4-7           8-5
Serial No.                                                      16283         16519         8419
Actuation Set                                                   Contact       Contact       Contact
Actuation Actual                                                --            --            --
Mark Warhead                                                    18-0          18-0          18-2
Serial No.                                                      267           53            3756
Explosive                                                       Torpex        Torpex        Torpex
Firing Interval                                                 --            10 sec.       10 sec.
Type Spread                                                     Div           Div           Div
Sea Conditions                                                  No. 3         No. 3         No. 3
Overhaul Activity                                               Sub Base      Sub Base      Sub Base
                                                                PH, TH        PH, TH        PH, TH

Remarks: All torpedoes made normal runs. We believe the misses
          were caused by the shallow draft of the target.

                                                                -30-

— page 39 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. SEA ROBIN. • TORPEDO ATTACK NO.(2B). • PATROL NO. (1)
Time 0218:30(H). •Date January 6, 1945. •Lat.19-43.5N,Long.111-24 E.

                                                                Target Data - Damage inflicted

Description                                                     The stern tubes at same target (AK) as in
                                                                attack No. 2A.

Ship(s) Sunk                                                    None

Ship(s) Damaged                                                 None

Damage Determined by                                            No hits.

Target draft 8 ft.      Course 050° T Speed 6.5 knots Range 3200 yds
at firing.

                                                                Own Ship Data

Course 280° T Speed 2 knots Surface.

                                                                Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Surface Attack                                                  With stern tubes on same AK as in attack
                                                                No. 2A.

                                                                -31-

— page 40 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

Tubes Fired                                     # 7       # 8       # 9
Track Angle                                     120 P     121 P     121 P
Depth Set                                       6 ft.     6 ft.     6 ft.
Power                                           Hi        Hi        Hi
Hit or Miss                                     Miss      Miss      Miss
Erratic                                         --        --        --
Mark Torpedo                                    23        23        23
Serial No.                                      26864     65262     41488
Mark Exploder                                   6-5       6-5       6-5
Serial No.                                      26700     16959     17328
Actuation Set                                   Contact   Contact   Contact
Actuation Actual                                --        --        --
Mark Warhead                                    16-1      16-1      16-1
Serial No.                                      16722     20901     16793
Explosive                                       Torpex    Torpex    Torpex
Firing Interval                                 --        10 sec.   10 sec.
Type Spread                                     Div       Div       Div
Sea Conditions                                  No. 3     No. 3     No. 3
Overhaul Activity                               Sub Base  Sub Base  Sub Base
                                                PH, TH    PH, TH    PH, TH

Remarks: All torpedoes made normal runs. We believe the shallow
         draft of the target caused misses.

                                                                -22-

— page 41 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(I) MINES

Encountered (4) floating mines.

                  Time      Date          Lat.          Long.
Mine contact # 1  0627      12/16/44      19-52.8 N     117-00.5 E
          # 2     1240      12/24/44      19-30.0 N     113-07.5 E
          # 3     1743      12/23/44      18-40.2 N     110-50.2 E
          # 4     1439      1/8/45        19-25.0 N     111-35.0 E

All mines were spherical in appearance and were part of moored
mine assemblies, and all appeared to be of the electro-chemical
type.
Mine # 3 was hit several times by carbine fire, but it did not
explode or sink.
Mine # 4 was sunk with .50 caliber fire but it did not explode.

                                                                -33-

— page 42 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS
This report covers the period from 14 December 1944 to
20 January 1945 in the South China Seas area (Convoy College).
Submarine detection methods were planes and radar equipped
planes by day and radar equipped planes at night. One Sugar
Charlie was encountered patrolling off the Taya Islands.
All convoys were escorted by DEs, PCs, and SCs. All used
echo-ranging. Radar interference (10 cm) was encountered
from one DE.
On 27 December 1944, when detected by DE at 3000 yards by
echo ranging, we evaded by going to 200' and fish-tailing at 70 rpm.
Enemy radar equipped planes used 155 mc, and 175 mc radar.
One plane contacted used 310 mc radar. Most planes used 155 mc.
radar. Planes often keyed radar. We are now ready to move out our
SD radar (which attracts planes like honey does flies) in exchange
for an additional APR or a coco cola machine. We are sold one
hundred percent on the APR.

-34-

— page 43 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(K) MAJOR DEFECTS

1. Vent motor to port main motor.
Brush holder came loose and burned commutator. Replaced
armature with spare. Then spare armature shorted out. Cleaned
commutator on original armature and re-installed armature. Port
main motor out of commission for 32 hours.

2. Booster Blower in Control Room (Sea Robin's B-29).
The motor in this unit is an induction motor. At present this
unit operates at too high a speed, and causes an exceptionally loud
constant noise in the control room, very much like an airplane.
Recommend facilities be installed for speed control of the motor
or the entire unit be relocated in some other compartment. The
installation of this unit, however, has solved the ventilation
problem forward.

3. Hydraulic System.
Accumulator piston is scored, causing much oil leakage. Be-
lieve the piston has been honed too much in removing scores and
that at present it is out-of-round.

4. Bow Planes.
The bow planes have developed a pounding noise. The cause has
not yet been determined.

-35-

— page 44 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(L) RADIO
Reception of the Fox Schedules was in general satisfactory.
13,655 kcs. was the best daytime frequency, with 6045 kcs. best
at night. The worst period for reception was from 2000 to 2200
GCT. During the period from 10 January to 16 January NPM faded
and was unreadable on all frequencies from 0500 until about 0730
GCT. Three ComSubPac serials were missed.
Radio Chungking (NKN) was guarded three times daily whenever
possible during the entire patrol. Reception was excellent
throughout.
A total of five messages were sent to ComSubPac, all of which
were cleared on 8470 kcs. The first was relayed by VIXO (Perth),
the second cleared direct to NPM, and the last three relayed by
NPN (Guam). With reference to the second message, we were on the
air an unnecessarily long period of time before convincing NPM
that our call was properly enciphered. Our thanks to Radio Guam,
who expeditiously handled our last three transmissions. Three
messages were sent, also on 8470 kcs., to ComNavGroup China (via
NKN); one was relayed by NPN and the other two were cleared direct.
When guarding photo and reconnaissance planes it was necessary
to use the RBO. In order to receive CW signals with this set we
had to run a lead from the frequency meter to the frame of the RBO
in order to provide the necessary local oscillation. It is consid-
ered highly desirable to obtain an additional RAL receiver which
can be installed in place of the RAK when it is necessary to guard
three high frequency stations.
Wolfpack communications were quite satisfactory throughout
the patrol. The Japs use the wolfpack frequencies as much as we
do, but no serious difficulties were encountered in clearing or
receiving messages. Several attempts were made to transmit submerged
using the SD antenna; results were negative.
There were no significant radio materiel casualties.

-36-

— page 45 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(M) RADAR
The SD, BN, and ABK were used only between Pearl and Saipan and
during life guarding. Keying was usually employed for SD operation.
Ranges out to 30 miles on plane contacts were obtained, the normal
contact range being about 15 miles. Since these contacts were all
on friendly planes, the actual radar contact was usually preceded
by IFF responses. No operational time was lost, the only failures
in these equipments being a bad 9001 I.F. tube in the SD receiver
and occasional arcing over of the 15E transmitter oscillator in
the BN.

No opportunity was obtained to test the SD radar on Japanese
ships as we were never within effective range during our submerged
contacts. However, at 55 foot depth a range of 16,000 yards was
obtained on large tankers in a friendly convoy. Contact on land
at 15,000 yards was also obtained at 55 foot depth. No operational
time was lost. The following failures occurred; C6 in the trans-
mitter shorted causing failure of both 5R4 rectifier tubes, the
"A" regulated rectifier, the 724-B TR. tube, 723 A/B local oscillator,
and 6SN7 master multivibrator failed.

Performance of the SJ radar was only fair due to the chronic
failure of 721-A TR tubes. Six of these were replaced in less than
six weeks. The failure on this tube is easily recognized by loss
of sea return and the exponential increase of SJ interference pip
height at the beginning of the sweep on the "A" scope with own
high voltage on. A thorough search was made in the bias generator
circuit and elsewhere in an attempt to locate the cause for this
all too frequent trouble, but results were negative. It was
observed that failure of the TR tube usually coincided with message
transmission by SJ radar so that keying the SJ may have been a
direct or indirect cause of the trouble.

The repeated blowing of F1 or F2 was caused by grounds on
both sides of the A.C. line leading to the transtat in the control
unit. The lead from F2 to the main power switch was poorly
insulated and touched the transtat core, and the brush nuts on the
transtat contacted the case of T3 so that excessive current caused
the charring of terminal strip 24, the failure of the main power
switch and the dropping down of T3 due to heating of filler compound.

The appearance on the "A" scope of a pattern similar to a
television picture was due to A.C. on the grid of the last I.F. tube.

Dropping of crystal current to nearly zero was due to shorting
of crystal holder to ground caused by improper position of insulators
inside converter block.

-37-

— page 46 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(M) RADAR (Cont'd)
Excessive grass at end of sweep with false echoes was caused
by a faulty cable from "I.F. out" to the A.F.C. unit in the trans-
mitter receiver.
Ten hours operational time was lost on patrol. All major
troubles with the exception of tube failures have been listed
above.
Ranges on land out to 80,000 yards were obtained. Submarine
ranges varied from 6 to 14 thousand yards depending on condition
of TR tube; ranges on small ships from 6 to 10 thousand yards and
medium ships 10 to 20 thousand yards.
Fairly accurate bearings were obtained on SJ radar inter-
ference except at close range. Communication by SJ radar and
the exchange of recognition signals were good providing the range
was not excessive.
One hour operational time was lost on the APR/SPA on patrol.
The only major trouble was a shorted lead on a banana plug jack of
AN-2 causing failure of 2 5Y3 rectifier tubes.
Any improvement on tuning ranges, switching tuning units,
or antenna construction to obtain bearings would be welcomed.
Antenna resistance to ground drops to 600 K ohms from 7 M
ohms due to salt water, but this does not seem to affect operation
materially.

-38-

— page 47 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

        Our only chances to evaluate sound conditions came off Hainan
Island where most of the patrol was spent. The average operating
depth was 40 fathoms and the water was always isothermal. Three
17-18 kc. pinging contacts were made at estimated ranges of 10 to 20
miles. JP picked up screws at about 15,000 yards, this range being
greater than that obtained by JK or QB under the same conditions.
No ping ranges were taken, but single ping soundings were a great
aid in navigation as our charts were not too reliable. Three
failures occurred in the sound gear. Inability to start the equip-
ment was traced to faulty design of the start-stop switch on the
range indicator. The normally closed stop side contacts were held
in an open position after the button was pressed. The lower shunt
field coil of the QB training motor salted and blew. This type
motor does not have adequate water proof characteristics compatible
with its location in the forward torpedo room bilge. There are no
"on board" spare shunt field coils for sound training motors. QB
training motor was repaired by using 2 spare field coils from the
lathe motor. This changed the speed of the motor, but the operation
was satisfactory. The cable leads to the QB head opened and were
respliced.

                                -39-

— page 48 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(O) DENSITY LAYERS

Inasmuch as a great part of the patrol was spent in shallow
waters, only seven bathythermographs cards were taken, all of
which showed isothermal water to depths greater than 200 feet
with a resulting "assured depth" of 400 feet or more. These
cards, which will be forwarded to the hydrographic office, are
briefed below. Depth shown is that of the element which is
25' above the keel.

Date | Position | Isothermal To | Degree Change | To Type
Dec. 1 | 23-48 N | 200' | (-)8° | 380' Gradual
| 179-29 E | | |
Dec. 14 | 19-50 N | 260' | (-)6° | 380' Gradual
| 122-10 E | | |
Dec. 14 | 20-01 N | 205' | (-)14° | 380' Sharp
| 120-16 E | | | at 260'
Dec. 15 | 19-53 N | 245' | (-)10° | 390' Gradual
| 116-32 E | | |
Dec. 18 | 19-58 N | 250' | (-)9° | 380' Sharp
| 118-37 E | | | at 260'
Dec. 25 | 19-54 N | 400' | • | 0 Wow!
| 113-23 E | | |
Dec. 26 | 19-03 N | 260' | (-)1° | 400'
| 112-13 E | | |

-40-

— page 49 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(P) HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY

The health of the crew was good. The food was excellent and
well prepared. The habitability of this class submarine is good.

(Q) PERSONNEL

The state of training of officers and crew was very good. By
the end of the patrol new hands became old hands.
A "school of the boat" was conducted daily. All unqualified
men attended with enthusiasm resulting in a high percentage becoming
qualified.

(a) Number of men on board during patrol . . . . . . 78
(b) Number of men qualified at start of patrol . . . . 37
(c) Number of men qualified at end of run . . . . . . 49
(d) Number of unqualified men making first patrol . . . 42
(e) Number of men advanced in rating during patrol . . 12

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED

Pearl to Saipan . . . 3500 mi48,000 gals.
Saipan to Station . . 1348 mi12,730 gals.
In Area . . . . . . . 6390 mi60,981 gals.
Area to Base . . . . 3709 mi42,000 gals.

(S) DURATION

Days enroute area . . . . . 17 Total days patrol . . 64
Days in Area . . . . . . . 33 Total miles steamed . 14,947
Days enroute base . . . . . 12 [HANDWRITTEN: 3:02526]
Days submerged . . . . . . 16

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

Torpedoes (No) Fuel (Gals.) Provisions (Days) Personnel (Factor
Days)

12 3000 20 7

Limiting Factor this patrol - ended by orders from ComSubPac.

-41-

— page 50 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
(U) RADAR AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

Strong 10 cm. radar interference was obtained on the night of
December 30 from the direction of Yulinkan Bay on the southern
tip of Hainan Island. Its appearance on both scopes was different
than SJ and the audio signal in the phones indicated a P.R.F. of
approximately 500. Time and circumstances did not allow us to feed
this signal into the AN/SPA for further analysis.
The value of the APR/SPA cannot be rated too highly. It was
manned continuously on patrol and numerous contacts were obtained.
Our own ST comes in strong at 137 mc/s., and SJ is picked up at
many places on both tuning units due to various harmonic combinat-
ions. Numerous SD contacts from friendly submarines were obtained
and one ASB and one ASE were picked up on the way to the area. On
9 December, an 8 microsecond, 108 mc/s., 600 P.R.F. sweeping contact
was obtained north of Saipan. It was probably an SCR 270. On 30
December a saturation 6 microsecond, 193 mc/s., 1250 P.R.F. contact
was made off the southern tip of Hainan Island near Yulinkan Bay.
It appeared to be hand trained and was keyed. It was probably a
land based air search set.

A weak 30 microsecond, 83 mc/s., 1000 P.R.F. sweeping contact was
obtained on 3 January about 40 miles off northern Hainan Island. It
was probably land based air search. The same type contact on 100 mc/s
was obtained several times off the Taya Islands near northern Hainan.
Several 5 microsecond, 150-155 mc/s., 1000 P.R.F. airborne contacts
were encountered off Hainan Island. The pulse shape is unmistakable
due to its peak on the leading edge.

Several instances of keying of 155 mc/s radar were encountered.
Numerous contacts on 175 mc/s airborne radar were encountered off
Hainan. This contact had all the characteristics of our own ASE
but we doubted whether China search planes were carrying this type
radar. 4 microsecond pulse width, 300 P.R.F.

-42-

— page 51 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(W) SPECIAL REPORT ON MK 18-1 TORPEDOES.
        No difficulty or serious inconvenience was
charging and routining the sixteen MK 18-1 torpedoes carried in
the forward room. A six day charging schedule was carried out using
the Pearl Harbor upkeep routine and freshening charge procedures;
four days of charging and routining four torpedoes a day and two
days rest.
        The following figures apply to the torpedoes which were aboard
this patrol:

        Ave. length of charge 3½ hours.
        Ave. interval between charges 6 days.
        Ave. battery temperature 81° F.
        Ave. gravity drop between charges . . . . . . 15 points.
        Ave. voltage drop (open circuit). . . . . . . 3 volts.
        Ave. temperature at end of charge . . . . . . 101° F.

        The Pearl Harbor design portable tail stop and special MK 18
strap was used and was very much appreciated.
        No grounds or dead cells were found, nor was it necessary to
water batteries.

                                                                -43-

— page 52 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL

(X) REMARKS

        The APR is an exceedingly valuable piece of gear. Many
thanks to the experts who developed this fine instrument.
Recommend that APR be made directional and be redesigned to
obviate shifting the two tuning units.

        The trim manifold valves chatter when flooding variable
tanks from sea at deep submergence. Recommend valves be re-
designed to prevent this.

        A means of shifting the FBT vents to MBT vents without
sending men into the superstructure is a must. Several men
have been lost shifting these vents and under the most favor-
able conditions the boat and the lives of the men doing this
job are in jeopardy. In rough weather when it is impossible
to shift these vents it usually when it is most desirable to
have them shifted. The actual speed increase from this shift
is not as important as the improvement in sea worthiness of
the boat in a heavy sea which may allow an increase in speed of
as much as six to eight knots.

                                                                -44-

— page 53 —
FC5-18/A16-3
Serial 0107
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) -
Report of First War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of First War Patrol.

1. During this first patrol, the U.S.S. SEA ROBIN acted as a
unit of a coordinated search and attack group commanded by Commander V. L.
Lowrance in the SEA DOG operating off the coast of HAINAN. Three torpedo
attacks were made.

2. Attack No. 1 on 6 January 1945 was a night surface attack on
a convoy which had been first sighted by periscope the previous day. Six
electric torpedoes were fired at a medium AK, the leading ship of the con-
voy, and at an overlapping escort. Range 3000, 104° track, 5 foot depth
setting, small gyro angles. Two hits were made in the AK. The SEA ROBIN
then pulled clear to permit the SEA DOG to attack and one-half hour later
picked up a straggler from the convoy.

Attack No. 2A was made on this straggler, an AK. Three elec-
tric torpedoes were fired from surface at range of 2700 yards, 84° track, 4
foot depth setting, spread to cover 450 ft. Although the set up checked in
the TDC, all torpedoes missed. The cause of the miss is not apparent.

Attack No. 2B was a stern tube attack six minutes later at
the same target. Three steam torpedoes were fired, set on 6 foot, spread
the same amount. The range had increased to 3200 yards, 120° track, small
gyro. These torpedoes also missed. The Commanding Officer attributes these
misses to the fact that the torpedoes ran under the target, but if so, the
depth keeping of the torpedoes must have been erratic since it is hardly
possible for a 3000 ton ship to draw less than six feet of water. Further
attempts to attack were frustrated by escorts which drove the SEA ROBIN off.

3. On 27 December, SEA ROBIN encountered an AK and escort while
submerged. The escort apparently made a doubtful sound contact on the SEA
ROBIN during the approach, but no counter attacks developed, although the
actions of the escort forced the SEA ROBIN deep. On 2 January a convoy was
contacted but before attack position could be attained the convoy was lost
inshore behind TINHOSA ISLAND in a rain squall. The following day the air
coverage for the sortie of the convoy held the SEA ROBIN down so it could
not get into position to attack.

4. On the evening of 22 December, while converting number four
fuel ballast tank, one of the men topside, T.W. GRIFFIN, MoMM2c, was washed
overboard and lost. The loss of this man is most regrettable and the Squad-
ron Commander extends his sincere condolences to the SEA ROBIN in the loss
of a shipmate.

- 1 -
SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHTEEN
Mk
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
30 January 1945.

— page 55 —
F224-71/A16-3
Serial 0279
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

UNITED STATES NAVY 14/hr
7 February 1945.

3 02526

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS SEAROBIN Conf. ltr.
F224-71/A16-3 Serial 01, dated
29 January, 1945. Report
of First War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: The Commander, SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAROBIN (SS407) - Report of First War
Patrol - Comment on.

1. The First War Patrol of the SEAROBIN, under the
command of Commander P. C. STIMSON, U.S.N., was conducted in the
areas southeast of HAINAN as a member of a coordinated search and
attack group consisting of SEAROBIN, GUARDFISH and SEADOG, under
the operational control of Commander V. L. LOWRANCE, U.S.N.,
Commanding Officer of SEADOG.

2. The first attack took place on 3 January, when two
night surface radar approaches were made on a convoy in conjunction
with SEADOG. Twelve torpedoes were fired and two hits were observed
to damage an unidentified target. Escort activity prevented
further attack on the convoy.

3. Lifeguard duties were performed from 13 to 16
January.

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

5. The Force Commander commends the Commanding Officer,
Officers and Crew of the SEAROBIN on their performance of lifeguard
duties and on inflicting the following damage upon the enemy:

DAMAGED
1 - AK (Unident - EU) 4,000 Tons*

* NOTE: Since the above damage was done in areas under the
operational control of Commander Task Force SEVENTEEN, he
is requested to assume credit accordingly.
[SIGNATURE: Eliot H. Bryant]
ELIOT H. BRYANT.
- 1 -
[STAMP: ORIGINAL COPY]

— page 57 —
142
UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET
Reg. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 017-4122 (OM1-03171)]
R. S. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 3 02026]

A16-3(F-3-4/whr)
Serial [HANDWRITTEN: 02405]

[HANDWRITTEN: 5 MAR 1945]

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to:
USS SEAROBIN Conf. Ltr.
A16-3 Serial 01, dated
29 January, 1945.

From: Commander Seventh Fleet.
To: Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEAROBIN (SS407) - Report of First War
Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

[SIGNATURE: R. H. Cruzen]
R. H. CRUZEN,
By direction.

[HANDWRITTEN: 3-0753]
[HANDWRITTEN: ND]
[HANDWRITTEN: X]

— page 58 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 147]
FE24-71/A16-3
Serial 071-A
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

From:
To:
Via:

Subject:

Reference:

Enclosure

[HANDWRITTEN: A16-3 (8)]
UNITED STATES NAVY
12/ar
11 June 1945.

The Commander Submarines SEVENTH FLEET.
The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

Second Endorsement to U.S.S. SEAROBIN (SS407) -
First War Patrol, Correction to.

(a) ComSubs7thFlt Second End. FE24-71/A16-3,
Serial 0279 of 7 Feb. 1945 to USS SEAROBIN
Conf. Ltr. A16-3, Serial 01 dated 29 Jan. 1945.

(A) ComSubs7thFlt Second End. FE24-71/A16-3,
Serial 070-A of 11 June 1945 to USS SEAROBIN
Conf. Ltr. A16-3, Serial 01, dated 29 Jan.1945.

1.
Reference (a) is hereby cancelled and enclosure
(A) to be substituted in its place.

[HANDWRITTEN: A16-3(2)]
2.
Further study of the subject war patrol report
indicates that there is sufficient evidence to warrant an assessme
of "sunk" instead of "damaged".

[SIGNATURE: JAMES FIFE]
ORIGINAL COPY

[HANDWRITTEN: 6-04351]
DISTRIBUTION:

Cominch
Vice Opnav
Vice Opnav Op-23c
ComlstFlt
Com2ndFlt
Com7thFlt
ComSubslstFlt
ComSubs2ndFlt
CTF-71
CTG-71.5

(3) Direct CTG-71.8
(2) Direct ComSubRon-22
(1) ComSubRon-26
(1) ComSubRon-30
(1) DivComSubRon-22
(2) DivComSubRon-26
(30) DivComSubRon-30
(4) S/M School, N.L. Conn.
(7) Comdt, NYD, Puget Sound
(2) SubAd, Mare Island
S/Ms 7thFlt

(2)
(2)
(2)
(lea)
(lea)
(lea)
(2)
(1)
(2)
(1)

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

[HANDWRITTEN: X H. H. MELANSON,
n. Flag Secretary.]

[HANDWRITTEN: 7 01398]

— page 59 —
FE24-71/A16-3

Serial 070-A
CONFIDENTIAL [HANDWRITTEN: (crossed out)]

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS SEAROBIN Conf. Ltr.
A16-3 Serial 01, dated
29 January, 1945. Report
of First War Patrol.

From:
To:
Via:

Subject:

1.
command of Commander P. C. STILSON, U.S.N., was conducted in the
areas southeast of HAINAN as a member of a coordinated search and
attack group consisting of SEAROBIN, GUARDFISH and SEADOG, under
the operational control of Commander V. L. LOWRANCE, U.S.N.,
Commanding Officer of SEADOG.

2. The first attack took place on 6 January, when two
night surface radar approaches were made on a convoy in conjunction
with SEADOG. Twelve torpedoes were fired and two hits were observed
in an unidentified target, which, it is believed, sank. Escort
activity prevented further attack on the convoy.

3. Lifeguard duties were performed from 13 to 16
January.

4. The award of the Submarine Combat Insignia is
authorized for this patrol.

5. The Force Commander commends the Commanding Officer,
Officers and Crew of the SEAROBIN on their performance of lifeguard
duties and on inflicting the following damage upon the enemy:

S-U-N-K
1 - AK (Unident - EU) 4,000 Tons*

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

[SIGNATURE: JAMES FIFE.] 7 01398

- 1 -UNITED STATES NAVY

12/ar

11 June 1945.

CORRECTED COPY

The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
The Commander, SEVENTH FLEET.

U.S.S. SEAROBIN (SS407) - Report of First War
Patrol - Comment on.

The First War Patrol of the SEAROBIN, under the

— page 61 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 16]
UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET
[HANDWRITTEN: 10]
[HANDWRITTEN: G. NO F-1369]
[HANDWRITTEN: S. NO 7 01598]
[HANDWRITTEN: REG. SHEET NO 64]

A16-3(8)(F-3-4/bc)
Serial [HANDWRITTEN: 04367]

[HANDWRITTEN: 25 JUN 1945]

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT on:
ComSubs7thFlt Conf. ltr.,
serial 071-A, dated
11 June 1945.

From: Commander Seventh Fleet.
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Subject: Second Endorsement to U.S.S. SEAROBIN (SS407) -
First War Patrol, Correction to.

1. Forwarded.

Copy to:
ComSubs7thFlt
[SIGNATURE: J. H. Long]
By direction

[HANDWRITTEN: RTH]
[HANDWRITTEN: M.A.]

[HANDWRITTEN: JX]

— page 62 —
SS407/A16-3
Serial.( 04 )
C-0-DECLASSIFIED

From:
To :
Via :

Subject:

Enclosures:

1.
of this vessel was conducted in the Java Sea and the South
China Sea during the period 24 February 1945 to 29 April
1945, is forwarded herewith.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED - DOD DIR. 5200.9
of 27 Sep 58
BY [SIGNATURE: illegible line] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/19/71]]

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED
121374] U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Cal.

29 April 1945.

Commanding Officer, U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407).
Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(Official Channels)

U.S.S. Sea Robin (SS407), Report of War
Patrol Number Two.

(A) Subject report.
(B) Track charts.
(C) Copy of statements made by Java Sea POW's.

Enclosure (A), covering the second war patrol

P. C. STIMSON.

— page 63 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

(A) PROLOGUE

Arrived Fremantle, Western Australia from First War Patrol
on 29 January 1945. Commenced refit under Commander Submarine
Division 132.
Material condition of the boat after refit was excellent.
Commenced a seven day training period on 14 February 1945.
Fired three Mark 14 exercise torpedoes; Captain Jesse L. Hull, USN,
ironed out the rough spots during two days as training officer.

(B) NARRATIVE

The following named officers and CPO's made the Second War
Patrol:

Name (Officers) | No. of Patrols
Commander P. C. STINSON, USN. | 9
Lt. Comdr. P. F. ECKERT, USN. | 9
Lieut. P. A. MELZAR, (DE), USNR. | 6
Lieut. V. C. PAGE, (DE), USNR. | 2
Lieut. B. P. PERCY, USN. | 2
Lt.(jg) R. G. SHAVER, (E)L(T), USNR. | 2
Lt.(jg) J. H. BRUNS, (E)L, USNR. | 2
Ensign J. A. URUMB, (D)L, USNR. | 1
Ensign R. E. BELLEW, (DE)L, USNR. | 1
Ensign W. E. IBELE, (DE)L, USNR. | 1

Name (CPO's) | No. of Patrols
HUNTER, W.D., 234 16 75, CTM, USN. | 8
YOUNG, W.T., 346 53 53, CEM, USN. | 11
HAGOPAN, J.(n), 212 41 23, CMOMM, USN. | 10
KRIEG, K.H., 238 58 86, CMOMM, USN. | 3
LIDMAN, A.A., 371 95 15, CMOMM, USN. | 4
SHORT, J.A., 201 64 36, CRM, USN. | 7
McMURTREY, E.A., 368 44 83, CPhM, USN. | 8

The following named officers were detached from Sea Robin to
relief crew;

Lt.(jg) R. W. GREENE, (D), USNR.
Lt.(jg) L. A. McHENRY, USN.

The following named officers reported on board for duty.

Ensign J. A. URUMB, (D)L, USNR.
Ensign R. E. BELLEW, (DE)L, USNR.
Ensign W. E. IBELE, (DE)L, USNR.

-1-

— page 64 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

24 February
All times are HOW time, unless otherwise specified.

1300 Underway for Second war patrol in accordance with ComTaskGroup
     71.1 OpOrd No. 25-45. Have 40 bags of mail on board to deliver
     to the following boats in patrol areas: PAMPANITO, BERGALL,
     HAWKBILL, BLUEBACK and BLACKFIN.
1402 Exercised at Battle Surface. Fired 15 rounds of 5" at towed
     target.
1406 Secured from Battle Surface.
1557 Commenced approaches on Kiama.
2300 Secured making approaches. Released target. Set course for
     area.

25 February
0550 Made trim dive.
0620 Surfaced. Conducting dives and Battle Problems daily for
     training of all hands.
0858 Exchanged signals with HMS Tradewind.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 30-05 S. Long. 113-30 E.

1303 Exchanged signals with HMS Tantalus.

26 February
General training enroute area.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 24-45 S. Long. 112-12 E.

27 February
0500 Sighted Cape Vlaming Light.
0700 Entered Exmouth Gulf.
1031 Moored starboard side to USS Coucal at Exmouth Gulf.
     Exchanged our two movies and commenced fueling.
1700 Underway for patrol area.

28 February
General training enroute area.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 18-54 S. Long. 113-26 E.

1 March
General training enroute area.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 14-23 S. Long. 114-30 E.

-2-

— page 65 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

2 March
General training enroute area.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 9-36 S. Long. 115-37 E.

1213 Sighted unidentified plane bearing 170° relative, distance
     5 miles. Dived. Sine wave jamming on SD radar. (See paragraph
     unit for details).
1313 Surfaced.
1335 SD contact 10 miles, closing. Dived.
1400 Surfaced.
1500 SJ contact on Nusa Bear Island 75,000 yds.
1629 Dived to approach Lombok Strait submerged.
2230 Completed transit of Lombok. Proceeding up the north coast
     of Bali. Passage thru Lombok was uneventful except for
     periodic APR contacts on 197 mcs, pulse rate 1000. Appeared
     to be an air search radar. Patrolling along coast of Bali
     looking for targets.

3 March
0208 Took departure from north Bali coast and set course to pass
     Goa Goa Island 5 miles abeam to port.
0614 Passed Goa Goa Island and changed course to sweep up the
     north Madura coast, north of mine field, in hopes of sighting
     traffic to or from Surabaya.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 6-28 S. Long. 113-56 E.

1617 Dived for possible periscope sighting. May have been a piece
     of wood. Held Battle Problem.
1745 Surfaced. Secured from General Quarters.
1748 Executive Officer sighted ship thru high periscope bearing
     210° T distance about 25,000 yds, standing out of Surabaya
     mine field. Called away the general quarters tracking party.
     (S/C # 1). Commenced tracking by high periscope and SJ radar.
     Must be a large target as we can track him on radar at 28,000
     yds. Enemy base course 320° T, speed 7 knots. No escorts
     visible. Will wait until darkness to make surface approach.
     Target is a MFM double well deck AK.
1905 Range now 21,000 yds. It is getting dark.
1917 Battle Stations Torpedo.
1959 SJ picked up one small escort on target's starboard bow at
     range of 8000 yds. Am to left of his track, so will come in
     for a port track. Torpedoes on 6 feet; 400 foot target, 100%
     coverage; 4 torpedoes.
2000 Headed toward target, giving him a zero relative bearing. TDC
     and both plots check on 6.6 knots, base course 320° T.
2005 Target made 70° zig to left giving us zero angle on bow. Range
     4300 yds. All stop. Wait for zig or fire down the throat?

-3-

— page 66 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
3 March (cont'd)
2013 Zig right, angle on bow 40 port, range 3000.
2014 Escort appears to be dropping back on target's starboard side
     At
2016:50 with a range of 2000 yards, 74 port track, 6° Left gyro,
     commenced firing. (# 1).
2017 Fired # 2 tube.
2017:10 Fired # 3 tube.
2017:20 Fired # 4 tube. Right full rudder to fire stern tubes if
     necessary. 2018:47 One hit; flames and pieces of Jap ship
     went 400 feet high.
2021 With only one hit, and target still afloat, commenced firing
     stern tubes (# 8 tube) - 126 port track, range 1700, gyros
     7° right.
2021:10 Fired # 9.
2021:20 Fired # 10.
     Target in plain sight. C.O. walked forward and called Exec.
     (who has made 8 patrols, but had yet to see a ship blow up)
     to bridge to see hits. Radar Officer reported target pip
     gone. C.O. and Exec. walked aft; target had already disappeared.
2022 Target sunk with 3 stern torpedoes on their way to target.
     Pip completely disappeared from radar screen. After first
     hit, escort changed course to westward, closing the scene at
     about 9 knots. Trailed him, but he was too small for torpedoes,
     Decided to investigate him later and to return to scene of
     sinking to take some prisoners and to obtain anything of value.
2106 Heard capsized life boat while making 4 knots.
2120 Heard shouting from water.
2125 Sighted another capsized life boat with three men hanging onto
     it. Called away rescue party. Maneuvered ship alongside life
     boat. All three men left life boat and began swimming away.
     Threw life ring amongst them with line attached. One of them
     finally took hold and we hauled him aboard. Threw ring to
     second one who threw it away and then went under. Third one
     swam back to life boat. Decided if the fools didn't want to
     be rescued it was OK with us. Sighted some debris with two
     men hanging to it. Maneuvered alongside and hauled them aboard.
     The first man rescued is a ship's cook, the second a civilian
     messenger from the navy office in Surabaya, and the third we
     think is a seaman shipped aboard at Surabaya. The ship was
     bound for Singapore. She made round trips between Singapore,
     Surabaya, and Balikpapan. Took prisoners below and gave them
     medical aid and dry clothes. Chased escort and remained 8000
     yards from him during the night intending to finish him with
     the gun at dawn.

4 March
0500 Sent dispatch to CTG 71.1 requesting transfer of prisoners
     to Perth bound sub.
0505 Escort identified definitely as a spit-kit. His maneuvering
     through the night brought us back towards Surabaya. We were
     now about 15 miles from the entrance to Surabaya mine field.
     Decided to clear out and headed for Karimata Strait.

-4-

— page 67 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

4 March (cont'd)
NOON POSIT: Lat. 5-28 S. Long. 111-33 E.

1437 Decided to do some patrolling north of Bawean Island.
     Reversed course to patrol central eastern Java Sea. At
2320 63 miles east of Bawean Island, contacted enemy convoy by SJ
     radar. Commenced tracking. Base course determined to be
     050° T, speed 8.5 knots.

5 March
0038 Working our way ahead of convoy. One radar pip larger than
     all the others. Decided to work him over first. Am ahead of
     convoy now. Moon is bright, but is occassionally obliterated
     by fast moving clouds. Held conference on bridge with Exec.
     and Engineer. Decided three times to make a surface attack as
     moon clouded over, and four times to make a submerged approach
     as the moon came out bright. Decided we couldn't trust the
     moon.
0108 Changed course down true bearing of convoy at 11,000 yds. and
     dived. The largest ship is plenty big. All three escorts are
     guarding him with the two other AK's out, one on each bow.
     The large one must be important. Convoy formation:

AK                                                              AK

Escort ∩                                          ∩ Escort
                                                  ∩ Escort
                                                  ∩ (patrolling)
                     Large AP/AK

Large ship gives a nice pip at 10,000 yds at 55 feet depth
on ST radar. At 4300 yards convoy zigged giving us a 45 port
angle on the bow. Came left. At 2500 yds target zigged
at us. It looks like a "down the throat shot". She finally
steadied down on 20 starboard angle on the bow. This is
a fine kettle of fish. Decided to shoot with the track
presented even though it is small with a high parallax shot.
Small AK on port bow of convoy went steaming by. Will get
him later. At 2000 yds can see an escort on each side of
our target. They look like canoes alongside this towering
fellow. Ships all around us but we have our eye on the big
fellow.

-5-

— page 68 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

5 March (cont'd)
The third escort is on starboard quarter of target. It is too
late to maneuver the ship now for a better set up, so, at
0128 with a 300 starboard track and a 54° right gyro range 980
yds - started shooting three bow tubes set at 4 feet.
0128.10 Fired # 2 tube.
0128.20 Fired # 3 tube.
0129.01 One hit.
0129.06 Second hit.
0129.15 Third hit.
Flames are shooting 500 feet into the air. She is a blazing
holocaust from bow to stern. Pieces of him are falling all
around us. I hope none of those big pieces hit us. He has
masts and goal posts sticking out in all directions. Searching
for small AK on port bow of convoy for our stern tubes but am
unable to find him in scope. ST gives a range of 350 yds on
an escort. Went deep to 180 feet and rigged for depth charge
and silent running. Negative flood jammed closed with 12000
pounds in it. Going ahead 100 turns trying to hold our depth.
Sank slowly to 235 feet in 235 feet of water with 10° rise
angle. Our rudder must be on the bottom because we can't turn
it. Rising slowly now to 190 feet. Screws on sound gear in
all directions. Loud breaking up noises and minor explosions
can be heard through the hull as well as on the sound gear.
After a particularly loud series they died away. Do not under-
stand where the depth charges are. The escorts must be busy
picking up survivors. This large ship must have been a troop
transport. Whatever it was they considered it important for
they were all guarding it. Swung all around the compass trying
to keep screws astern. Drawing off to the northwest; screws
are all astern now. Soundmen are doing a wonderful job. At
0215 Started up to periscope depth.
0225 At periscope depth - all clear.
0240 Surfaced 600 yds from scene of sinking. Escort 5800 yds on
starboard beam. Opened out to northwest. Escort seems to be
trying to cut us off from going to the eastward. Started around
him to the northward and rapidly left him astern. He is the PC
type escort that had been on the starboard quarter of our target.
0300 SJ radar contact on two ships bearing 090° T, range 17,000 yds;
probably the remnants of our convoy. Commenced working ahead
of them. Base boat course 050° T, speed 12 kts.
0414 Am well ahead of them now. These two ships are probably the
two AK's that were with the AP/AK. No escort visible on the
radar screen. Battle Stations torpedo. Too light for a
surface approach so will try another submerged approach to
see if we can get both of them. Headed down the true bearing
and at
0430 Dived to 55 feet. Disposition of the two ships is as follows:

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— page 69 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

5 March (cont'd)
Both targets are zigging independently and radically, apparently
to no set plan.
Intend to run between them and shoot "A" which is the larger of
the two, with the bow tubes and "B" with the stern tubes.
0450 Angle on the bow on "A" is very sharp - why doesn't he zig?
0452:30 "A" has just zigged. At a range of 1050 yds, 70° port track
13° left gyro, commenced firing first of three bow tubes.
Torpedoes set on 4 feet.
0452:40 Fired # 2 tube.
0452:50 Fired # 3 tube. Shifted to "B" for a quick set up for the
stern tubes. "B" is still zigging.
0453:30 "A" hit by one torpedo abreast bridge on the port side. He
spun around to port, capsized to port, and sank stern first
immediately - range 300 yards.
0455 With a range of 1780 yards, 96° starboard track, gyro 45° left,
commenced firing first of stern tubes. Fired 9 and 10 tubes at
8 seconds firing interval. "B" swinging hard right giving us
a zero angle on the bow. Those torpedoes will never hit.
Swinging hard right to bring the bow tubes to bear. Target "B"
has completely reversed course now.
0502 Ready to shoot but target is zig zagging wildly. Angle on bow
is now 90 port or starboard? Am taking only short looks with
the ST scope now. Finally decided it was 90 starboard angle
on the bow. At
0503 with a range of 900 yds, 109 starboard track, gyro 16° right,
commenced shooting first of three bow tubes. Spread 300 feet,
we can't miss.
0503:10 Fired # 2 tube.
0503:20 Fired # 3 tube.
0503:47 First torpedo hit target smack in the middle. Target broke
in two parts. Radar Officer on ST radar reported "SPLIT PIP".
Targets forward half sank first, almost immediately. All hands
in the C/T watched the stern half sink. Range 300 yards.
0509 Escort still hasn't arrived although we can hear his pinging.
Surfaced to get some prisoners. SJ radar picked up escort
at 3600 yds and he was picked up visually by bridge watch.
He started in pursuit. Decided we wouldn't be able to get any
prisoners here.
0600 Informed CTG 71.3 of results, and that we had 3 fish left.
Requested instructions as to reload. Set course for scene of
sinking of AP/AK at 4 engine speed to see if we could get any
prisoners there. Escort is still chasing us.
0700 Sighted the other two escorts in vicinity of sinking of the
AP/AK. They appear to be still searching for survivors. They
challenged us by search light. I think they believe we are the
third escort who can still be seen astern of us in the high
periscope. Headed for close rain squall. At
0712 Dived for SD contact 5 miles.

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— page 70 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

5 March (cont'd)
0717 Surfaced again and headed for rain squall. Don't want to get
that mob on our neck in this shallow water. Can see both
escorts plainly and float plane search above them. Put JOOW
on job of watching plane and began clearing area to the south-
east on 4 engines. When at
0730 SD radar contact two miles. We didn't see him. Decided to
clear area at 5 knots submerged at 90 feet.
0932 Surfaced. Can see the three escorts in high periscope, and two
planes searching the area in which we dove. Clearing the area
on 4 main engines with QM watching one plane and JOOD watching
the other. At
0945 Dived when OOD sighted patrol boat ahead of us. They are really
trying to box us in. Decided to get this one so began maneuver-
ing into his track.
1027 Battle Stations Submerged.
1030 Patrol boat was identified as a whole clump of palm trees
floating upright in the water.
1041 Surfaced clearing area on 4 engines. Can see two float planes
and a patrol plane searching astern of us.
1100 Float plane coming in. At
1102 Dived. Received small bomb and it was not close. Decided to
stay submerged.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 5-58.1 S. Long. 114-24 E.

1442 Sighted float plane through the scope. He passed right over us
at an elevation of about 200 feet. At
1815 Surfaced. At
2130 Received instructions to deliver the mail to the Indo-China boats
and proceed to Subic for reload. Set course for Karimata.
2300 Sent dispatch to 71.3 requesting permission to patrol Surabaya
area two more days.

6 March
0600 Received permission to patrol this area two more days.
Proceeding at 4 engine speed to patrol northwest of Bawean
Island.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 5-22 S. Long. 111-46 E.

1507 Dived for submerged patrol.
1707 Surfaced. Set course for Surabaya at 4 engine speed in order
to make a high speed sweep north of the mine field.

7 March
0527 Dived for submerged patrol just north of Surabaya mine field.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 6-20 S. Long. 112-14 E.

1720 Surfaced. Set course for Karimata Strait.

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— page 71 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

8 March
0548 SJ radar interference from northwest.
0604 Exchanged signals with Guitarro. She told us to be careful
     as she had spotted a Nazi U-boat 10 miles south of Seratu
     Island.
1018 Dived south of Karimata Strait to wait for U-boat.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 3-40 S. Long. 109-20 E.
1917 Surfaced and commenced passage of Karimata Strait.

9 March
0557 Completed passage thru Karimata. Set course 310° T for
     rendezvous with Pampanito.
0640 Sighted lights of ship bearing 001° T.
0646 Dived.
0700 Identified ship as AWA MARU, carrying relief supplies for
     POW, bound from Singapore to Surabaya. She had been granted
     free passage and was right on schedule. Let her pass at
     10,000 yards. She was on course 150° T at 16 knots.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 1-05 S. Long. 107-49 E.
1305 Sighted small sailing vessel bearing 310° T. Avoided.
1839 Crossed Equator.
2035 Commenced converting # 4 FBT to a MBT.
2124 Completed rigging of # 4 MBT.
2227 Dived to flush out # 4 MBT.

10 March
0430 Lookout sighted object close aboard on starboard bow. Put
     object astern.
0440 Reversed course and closed object. We got a very faint
     radar pip from it.
0444 Identified object as a small sailing fishing vessel. Continued
     on our way.
0650 Made trim dive.
0712 Surfaced.
0720 Exercised 40mm gun crews. Sighted a floating oil drum and used
     it as a target.
0740 Secured 40mm gun crews.
0756 Met Pampanito and exchanged pleasantries.
1110 Sighted float plane - distance 6 miles. Dived.
1152 Surfaced.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 3-02 N. Long. 105-21 E.
2335 SJ radar interference - exchanged challenges and calls with
     Pampanito.

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— page 72 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

11 March
0121 Began transferring mail to Pampanito. Each bag of mail had
been divided and the mail put into two bags to make loads of
mail lighter and smaller.
0520 Completed transfer of mail having sent over 68 half bags of
mail in a state 3.5 sea. Set course to rendezvous off Cape
Varella to transfer balance of mail to Blueback.
1158 Dived for trim.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 6-08 N. Long. 105-57 E.
1212 Surfaced.

12 March
1150 Sighted plane and dived.
1315 Surfaced.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 8-40 N. Long. 108-50 E.

13 March
0453 Exchanged calls with Becuna by SJ radar off Cape Padaran.
0627 Had some time to spend before rendezvous with Blueback so
dived 10 miles off Camranh Bay, Indo-China, in the vicinity
of patrol boat reported over the Wolfpac frequency in hopes
of being able to knock him off. At
0820 Small Chinese junk came by trolling with several youngsters
setting out on a boom balancing the sails. At
1204 Surfaced since patrol boat was not here. Set course to
rendezvous with Blueback.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 11-45 N. Long. 109-35 E.
1356 Dived on SD contact at ten miles.
1530 Surfaced.
1825 SJ interference - exchanged calls with Flashor.
1956 SJ interference - exchanged calls with Blackfin. This ocean
is alive with American subs.
2030 SJ radar interference - exchanged calls with Blueback.
2127 Began transferring mail.
2215 Completed transfer of mail. Sent dispatch to CTG 71.3 info
CTG 71.3 with information of our time of arrival at point
Maxi and our speed of advance.

14 March
NOON POSIT: Lat. 14-24 N. Long. 113-37 E.
1239 Dived. Lookout sighted seven planes.
1249 Surfaced. Decided these planes were B-25's making a shipping
strike on the Indo-China coast.
1400 Arrived Point Maxi and set course for Subic.

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— page 73 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

15 March
Arrived Subic Bay. Assigned to Division 122 for administration
and to the U.S.S. GRIFFIN for voyage repairs. GRIFFIN repair force
changed starboard propeller, without dry docking; repaired # 2 peris-
cope in high power and both gyro compasses. Received load of 10 Mk
14-3 torpedoes forward and 6 Mk 18-1 torpedoes aft. Was sound tested.

19 March
0800 (I) Departed Subic in company with Guavina, with Day as escort,
enroute to area.
0920 (I) As we were leaving Subic Bay escort reported patrolling DE
had a sound contact. Swung wide around area on four engines
and stood out through safety lane.
0940 (I) DE dropped two depth charges. It was a wonderful sound to
hear depth charges being used on the enemy.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 14-43 N. Long. 119-30 E.

1303 (I) Dumped two 50 gallon oil drums over the side for targets.
1314 (I) Fired 40MM and 50 cal. guns while Guavina made trim dive.
1340 (I) Ceased firing. Guavina reported that her radar mast was
leaking.
1400 (I) Changed clocks to HOW time. All time hereafter will be HOW
unless designated otherwise. At
1301 Guavina made dive to test radar mast. At
1302 Sea Robin dived and went to test depth. Latch on Conning Tower
hatch leaking considerably.
1331 Surfaced. Guavina stated she was returning to Subic with escort.
Accompanied Guavina and escort while we made repairs to hatch.
1351 Departed company with our companions and set course for our area.
1445 Dived when single engine float plane came out of clouds. It may
be one of our own. Hatch still leaks. We will fix it
tonight. At
1548 Surfaced. At
1815 APR contact 110 Mc 105 pulse rate. Contact soon faded out.
2130 SJ radar interference to the south. It is Lagarto but she will
not answer our challenge by radar.

20 March
0622 Made trim dive. Hatch still leaks. # 4 exhaust valve leaking.
0708 Surfaced. Sighted Becuna bound for Subic. Exchanged pleasantri-
by radar.
0840 SD contact. Exchanged calls with Mindoro search plane by VHF.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 14-46 N. Long. 113-51 E.

1453 Intercepted two messages from Indo-China boats stating a B-25
had ditched in blind bombing area 160 miles Eastern and that
Flasher was proceeding to scene. Flasher had over 300 miles to
travel to spot. Reversed course on four engines. Sent message
to CTF 71 that we were proceeding to rescue. Requested bombing

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— page 74 —
U.S.S. SEA ROLIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

20 March (cont'd)
restrictions and put the dope in message for Becuna. Received
message that bombing restrictions had been requested for us.
Received message for Flasher to return to her area.

21 March
0015 Began firing green flare every 15 minutes. At
0124 Reached area in which plane was supposed to be down. Cut in
DRT and began search.
0200 SJ radar interference from Becuna. Exchanged information.
Organized coordinated search.
0315 Received message from CTF 71 that plane had not ditched but
that plane had reached base safely. The initial bad dope on
this plane cost three submarines twenty four hours and about
10,000 gals of fuel apiece. At
0330 Set course for area. At
0645 QM sighted periscope in joint zone. Cleared area on surface.
Sent dispatch to CTF 71 reporting periscope.
0825 SD contact 8 miles. Exchanged calls with Mindoro search plane
by VHF. At
1026 Submerged for trim. No. 4 main engine outboard exhaust valve
would not close in hydraulic or hand power. Decided to try our
luck from topside. At
1153 Surfaced and sent Chief Engineer and two men on deck. Keeping
sharp lookout for planes.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 14-40 N. Long. 114-11 E.

The operating gear in superstructure appeared to be all right.
Started disassembling exhaust valve. Found pin securing valve
gate had come out allowing gate to drop down and jam the
operating gear. Managed to work it back into position and
insert pin. At 1335 work was completed and valve worked fine.
It was a relief to get the men off deck again. At
1533 Dived for battle problem. At
1616 Surfaced. At
1643 SD contact 20 miles. No IFF.
2030 Sent dispatch to CTF 71 giving our posit clear of bombing zone.

22 March
0716 Dived for trim.
0723 Surfaced.
0910 SD contact 22 miles. No IFF.
1800 SD contact. Closed to ten miles. Dived. At
1821 Surfaced.
1825 SD contact. Closed to nine miles. Dived. These people are
being hard to get on with. At
1909 Surfaced. From this time on for most of the night we had
APR contacts on 150 Mc, 176 Mc, and our old friend of last
patrol "Yulinkan Joe" of the 193 Mc coolie trained radar
at Yulinkan Bay. Maybe the fly fly boys will fix him up
tomorrow.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL.

22 March (cont'd)
2355 Exchanged challenges and calls with Flounder. Arranged
rendezvous with her after moonset. Received wolfpack message
that Bergall had been fired on by torpedoes at 2330.

23 March
0428 Began maneuvering alongside Flounder to transfer three bags
of mail to her.
0515 Completed transfer of mail. Flounder stated that Brill, who
had just left this area, had been fired at twice with torpedoes.
It doesn't look like a very healthy place to patrol on the
surface in the day time. Flounder told us to patrol between
17°- 00'N and 17°- 30'N. after air strike on Yulinkan Bay this
morning. Decided to dive about 15 miles southeast of Yulinkan
Bay until 15 minutes after start of air strike and then surface
and do our bit for the fly fly boys. Proceeding at four engine
speed. At
0715 Sighted Cape Bastion, forming eastern side of Yulinkan Bay. At
0737 Dived. At
1016 Surfaced. Sighted Catalina and two B-25's. We got better
acquainted with them before the morning was over. Exchanged
calls with strike fighter cover by VHF.
1045 Fighter planes stated they were leaving for home because of
shortage of gasoline. At
1105 Mustang pilot informed us he was in trouble and looking for us.
He stated he was 40 miles east of target. Ordered him to head
for us and to turn on his emergency IFF. Set off at flank
speed in his direction. He stated he had about 15 minutes
more in the air and to watch for him because his windshield
was covered with oil. Communications were difficult because
other planes kept cutting in on the VHF circuit despite the
fact that the pilot in distress kept ordering them to stay
off the air. At
1128 Pilot stated he could see us and had closed to 3 miles.
Sighted him coming in high on the port bow. He only had a
couple more minutes in the air. He circled and stated he was
bailing out. Saw object fall from plane. It was a sickening
feeling to see it plunging toward the sea with no parachute.
Plane appears to be out of control. But wait! Plane appears
to have someone at the controls because it is banking back
towards us. Saw pilot fall clear and parachute open. Plane
flew on for short distance and then went into a power dive
and crashed into sea. Set off at flank speed chasing pilot.
Pilot dropped into ocean, and although he got into his raft
and there was, only a state two sea, it was impossible to see
him until he was close aboard. It must be discouraging looking
for a raft when all you know is that there is one someplace in
a general area. In the meantime the Catalina and two B-25's,
which we had sighted earlier, arrived and gave us excellent
air coverage during rescue operations. At

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— page 76 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL.

23 March (cont'd)
1138 Recovered First Lieutenant Wilfred Nials Joyal, USA, Ser.No.
     0692152, 341st fighter squadron of the 348th fighter group.
     He was in excellent condition except for bruises where he hit
     the tail surface while bailing out. The object we had first
     seen fall into the water was the plane canopy. Pilot stated
     that the first time he tried to bail out his parachute had
     fouled on something and that he had climbed back in and re-
     gained control of the plane. The second time he struck the
     tail surface as he fell clear. At
1140 Gave air cover name of our pilot and began clearing the area.
     The air cover stated that all planes had left for home. Sent
     CTF 71 dope on our aviator. At

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-58 N. Long. 109-40 E.

1320 Dived to work on main gyro. It has been out of commission
     for the last 30 hours. All efforts to fix it have been to
     no avail to date. At
1909 Surfaced. Main gyro still out of commission. At
2235 Exchanged info with Flounder by SJ and told him we were going
     to patrol west of Tiger Island tomorrow. Flounder was proceed-
     ing to Rendezvous with Chub at midnight. At
2345 Received wolfpack message to wolfpack Commander No. 18 info
     Chub, Sea Robin and Flounder. Message was in channel not held
     by SW boats. Sent wolfpack message telling Puffer to use our
     crypto channel and reversed course in case Puffer had a contact
     coming south along east coast of Hainan. At

24 March
0206 Puffer sent wolfpack message cancelling first message. Exchanged
     info with Flounder by SJ. Decided to patrol between Tourane
     and Yulinkan Bay tomorrow.
0645 Dived. Still working on gyro compass.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-11 N. Long. 109-20 E.

     Worked all day on the Gyro Compass. Gyro Compass back in
     commission.
1910 Surfaced. At
2132 Exchanged information with Flounder. Proceeding to patrol
     along coast west of Tiger Island.

25 March
0530 SJ contact on Tiger Island. At
0631 Dived west of Tiger Island. Ran down the Indo-China coast in
     75 to 100 feet of water. Visibility 500 to 2000 yds. Taking
     sweeps with SJ radar.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-00 N. Long. 107-18 E.

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— page 77 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

25 March (cont'd)
1555 Passed inshore of Chinese Junk at anchor. No Jap markings of
     any kind on Junk.
1906 Surfaced. Made sweep back up the coast close inshore. No
     contacts.
2330 Left coast and set course to patrol eastward across the lanes
     from Tourane, Indo-China, to the northward.
2355 Secured # 1 Main Engine. Noise heard in blower. Investigation
     showed damage to the blower impellers which puts engine out of
     commission for balance of patrol.

26 March
0527 Exchanged information with Flounder and informed her of our
     engine casualty.
0620 Dived.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-10 N. Long. 108-33 E.

1904 Surfaced. Received message that Cobia had sighted enemy submarin
     on surface off Cape Padaran.

27 March
0635 Dived.
1124 Two Jap fighter planes passed overhead flying low.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-16 N. Long. 109-00 E.

1555 Surfaced for sun line.
1606 Submerged.
1909 Surfaced. Received message from Chub that she had sighted
     periscope at 1130 How today just north of where we had been
     patrolling. They are really getting serious about using their
     subs for anti-submarine work.
2309 Stopped to shift vents on No. 4 FBT to MBT.

28 March
0626 Dived.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-11 N. Long. 108-15 E.

1800 Surfaced.
2034 SJ radar contact 6,000 yds. Swung away and called away the
     tracking party. Range opened to 9,000 yds. Turned to close.
     Closed spot to 4,000 yds. at three engine speed, unable to regain
     contact. Submarine must have dived. Sent dope to Flounder, Chub, and Sea Owl.
2135 Lookout sighted ship on horizon. Called away tracking party
     and began closing. Full moon-visibility excellent. Target
     turned out to be Chinese Junk. It is estimated that lookout
     picked it up at 14,000 yards.
2206 Dived at range 6300 yds. to look over junk.
2320 Closed target to 100 yds. He doesn't look suspicious. Pulled
     clear.

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— page 78 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

29 March
0005 Surfaced. From this time until the morning
dive we were continuously dodging junks and phantom pips
on SJ radar. These phantom pips were picked up at 1000 to
4500 yds. Some of them gave saturation pips. The moon was
full and visibility excellent. No birds were sighted. They
are the same type pips that all boats have experienced at
various times but it is very disconcerting when enemy subs
are known to be in the area. It has been the C.O.'s
experience that these pips are usually encountered on a calm
night with a smooth sea.
0623 Dived. Sighted two junks during day.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-45 N. Long. 108-21 E.

1800 Surfaced.
2106 Received Wolf Pack message of contact on convoy from Flounder.
Set course to intercept at full power. The possibility of
cutting them off from Yulinkan looks very remote. We are
going to regret the loss of # 1 engine many times before this
patrol is over.
2130 Received message from Perth that PBM's from Luzon would attack
this convoy from 2130 to 0100 and for all boats to stay clear.
We can't intercept before that time anyway so we will hold on
to our course and speed.
2236 From this time until early morning we sighted dozens of lights
in small boats strung out in line from mother junks. This was
very suspicious since it was the only night shipping came
through and it was the only time small boats were seen operating
from junks and the only time lighted junks were sighted during
the three weeks we operated in this area.
2330 Flounder reported that she had lost contact and was looking for
downed PBM. Chub reported that she was trying to intercept.

30 March
Radar contacts of 177 Mc, 158 Mc, and 138 Mc, could be picked
up almost continuously on the APR. There were SD contacts
continuously on the radar, some of which came in to very close
range. The closest one was picked up on SJ at 2800 yds. It
is believed that the 177 Mc contacts were our own planes. The
whole situation was very disconcerting. At
0135 OOD sighted flash of lights to the south of us which he thought
was a plane landing in the water. Change course to close. At
0145 Sighted several shapes which at first were thought to be junks.
At
0148 Radar contact on several ships at 11,000 yds. Range was closing
fast.
0150 Six ships can be seen clearly in the moonlight. It looks like
six DD's or 1 CL and 5 DD's. Turned with targets and went ahead
at full power. Range closed to 6000 yds and then started to
open. It is impossible that they can't see us or haven't picked
us up on their radar. It is bright moonlight now. Targets are
zig zagging radically. Some zigs are over 90°. Sent Wolf Pack
message to Chub and Flounder. At

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— page 79 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

30 March (cont'd)
0203 with the range to the nearest DD at 6700 yds she started blazing
      away with her main battery and the C.O., OOD, and all bridge
      watch died a thousand deaths while we waited for the hits. It
      was with a sigh of relief that we saw the shell bursts in the
      sky above the formation. She was working on the planes. She
      fired intermittently until at
0215 with a speed of 13 knots for targets, dove at range of 9000 yds,
      on task force track for SJ radar attack. Targets are zig zagging
      wildly. Decided that we had better take any target we could
      get a setup on before they zigged around us. Legs of zigs were
      about 3 minutes long. At
0224 Nearest DD has 90 port angle on the bow. At
0230 Same DD has 90 stbd angle on the bow. At
0241 We are directly between two Terutsuki DD's with range to each
      one 1300 yds. One has 90° starboard angle on the bow and the
      other has 90° port angle on the bow. Got a setup on the DD
      with the port angle on the bow and with a check range and
      bearing at
0243 Fired three Mk 14 torpedoes at range of 1200 yds - high parallax
      shot. Swung scope around to shoot at target on our starboard
      beam. Angle on the bow was 180°. Swung around to look at our
      first target. Angle on the bow was zero - range 800 yards. Our
      torpedoes had gone ahead when he zigged and it was too late to
      get off a down the throat shot. Depth of water was 40 fathoms
      so went to 220 feet and rigged for depth charge. Heard five
      sets of pinging - screws all around the dial. At
0307 First depth charge. At
0319 Last depth charge. At
0326 Started up to periscope depth. At
0333 Surfaced - all clear. Set out at full power in pursuit. Sent
      wolf pack message to Chub and Flounder. Planes on the radar
      continuously - one closed to 7500 yds. Now only 12 miles south
      of Hainan. At
0435 Anti-aircraft fire bearing 269° T. Our task force again. Set
      course to try to cut them off from Hainan. Sent message to
      CTF 71 about attack. At
0525 Sighted object on starboard beam that looked like a midget
      submarine or small boat. Did not have time to investigate. At
0532 SJ radar contact 13,000 yds on task force. Ships can be seen
      in moonlight. They bear 010° T and are headed for Yulinkan
      Harbor on west coast of Hainan. Am already in dangerous water
      because of reefs and shoals and sandbars which are supposed
      to stick out to sea 22 miles. Range to land is about 10 miles.
      Am now directly astern of task force and trying to close range.
      It is a sinking feeling to see dawn beginning to break and all
      those Japs potting away scot free. The water is now 90 feet
      deep - not a very nice place to get caught by six destroyers.
      At

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— page 80 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

30 March (cont'd)
0607 With sunrise only 35 minutes away, took one last chance and
     fired six Mk 14 torpedoes, set on low power, up the base
     course of the task force at a range of 8000 yds. It was
     impossible to pursue them any longer without discovery. It
     was realized that the targets would zig several times before
     the torpedoes reached them and our only chance was that their
     radical zigs would carry them into the spread. It was brilliant
     and foolish if it failed. Headed for deeper
     water at full power. At
0616 Below decks personnel claimed they heard one explosion and it
     looked like black smoke in direction of destroyers. This was
     too early for a hit. The next day China planes attacked five DD's
     and one CL north of Hainan. All information to the contrary,
     these torpedoes, set on four feet, left very distinct wakes
     and a smoke trail. One broached all the way down the range
     and one ran erratic off to the right. In looking back on
     the submerged attack it is realized that our mistake was in
     firing too late after the target had steadied on her zig and
     she zigged again before the torpedoes reached her. At
0635 Sighted submarine on horizon. Closed and exchanged information
     with Chub. Chub stated that they had been driven off by gun
     fire. Received wolf pack message that Flounder had not made
     an attack. Sent dispatch to Perth giving latest dope on task
     force. At
0734 Sighted mine. Fired one belt of .50 cal. MG ammunition at it.
     Did not sink mine. Set course to chase convoy reported by
     planes.
1032 SD contact 13 miles.
1038 Sighted two planes.
1145 Sighted five B-25's.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-15 N. Long. 108-41 E.

1220 SD contact 16 miles.
1226 Sighted one Tojo at four miles.
1229 Dived.
1245 Surfaced.
1357 Sighted four junks.
1513 SD contact 30 miles.
1527 SD contact 40 miles.
1548 SD contact 35 miles.
1830 SD contact 8 miles. Sighted B-24 flying toward Yulinkan Bay.
1930 Received message from Tigrone that she was forming scouting
     line with Lamprey, Bugara, Bullhead across route of convoy.
     Sent wolfpack message to Tigrone giving our position. Pro-
     ceeded to the northeastward at 17 knots following up the
     track of the convoy.
2330 Received orders from the Tigrone to take position on scouting
     line. Sent message to Tigrone requesting permission to make
     sweep down the coast of Hainan and to return to our area. We
     are now 115 miles northeast of our area.

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— page 81 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

31 March
0030 Received permission to return to area. Set course for coast
     Hainan. Exchanged recognition signals with Lamprey.
0035 Sighted Lamprey.
0223 Picked up Lamprey on radar at 50,000 yards. Received infor-
     mation of B-25 down south of Yulinkan. Chub proceeding to
     scene. Set course to aid Chub. Received information that
     B-24's would make strike on Yulinkan at noon.
0830 Sighted PBM. Heard planes talking to Chub over VHF.
0850 Plane directed Chub to survivors. Chub rescued three aviators.
1005 Sighted 4 B-25's.
1200 B-24's are over target.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 18-06 N. Long. 109-52 E.

1230 B-24's stated that they were headed home and had no business
     for us. Continued surface patrol south of Yulinkan.
1354 Sighted Chub - closed to talk over the situation.
1458 While talking to Chub on VHF had SD contact. Sighted Tojo.
     Dived. # 4 outboard exhaust valve would not close. The
     valve gate must be loose from the operating gear again.
1553 Surfaced. Proceeding to seaward to repair # 4 exhaust valve
     after dark.
1838 Stopped. Sent men on deck to repair exhaust valve and to rig
     a LBT to a LBT. Greased ship topside and electric welded
     loose deck plating.
2037 All topside work completed.
2300 SJ contact with Flounder. Exchanged information with Flounder.
     APR contacts on 150 Mc and 190 Mc were encountered almost
     every night while in this area.

1 April Easter Sunday
0100 Changed time to ITEM time (-9). All times from here on are (I)
     time.
0222 APR contact, 179 Mc.
0719 Dived.
0911 Surfaced. Decided to patrol on surface, and at same time,
     search for PBM crew which was downed on the night of 29-30 March.
1135 Sighted PBM. Established communications with him. He asked us
     about downed aviators. Replied we had no info, but that we were
     searching for them.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-30 N. Long. 110-11 E.

1431 Arrived position where aviators were reported downed. Commenced
     a systematic search by DRT, 10 miles to south, 2 miles to west,
     10 miles to north, etc.
1515 Sighted object in water.
1530 Recovered object. It was a USN belt type life jacket. It had
     been in water long enough to have barnacles encrusted on it.
     Resumed search.
1730 Sighted life raft.

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— page 82 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

1 April (cont'd)
1740 Went alongside life raft. It was a Jap ship life raft and too
     heavy to bring aboard. It was cork, oblong shaped, about
     7 X 5 feet, with no netting in the center. It had a boat
     hook lashed to it which we recovered. It had numbers 5 and
     349 stenciled on it. Resumed search. Throughout the night
     we were bothered by false SJ contacts - ranges 1500 to 4000
     yards. SJ pips. See section on radar.
2224 Dived for SJ contact close aboard which later proved to be
     false.
2330 Surfaced.

2 April
1034 Sighted discarded P-38 belly tank. Fired 40MM guns at it for
     practice.
1047 Sighted Chub.
1100 Closed Chub to exchange info. She is headed home.
1147 Sighted PBM. Established communications with him. Told him
     we were still searching for downed aviators.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-14 N. Long. 109-30 E.

1231 Returned to position of belly tank and fired 5 inch and MG's
     at it for practice.
1608 Sighted friendly plane.
2220 Exchanged info with Flounder. Asked him to turn on his SD in
     order to try out our new home-made directional APR.
2250 Secured test and proceeded to westward to close coast and
     search off Hue, Indo-China tomorrow.

3 April
0600 Changed course to 220° T to close coast. Sighted and dodged
     several junks while closing coast.
0725 Dived 11 miles off the coast in 13 fathoms of water and ran
     down coast toward Tourane.
1045 Sighted brand new floating mine. Passed it close aboard on
     port hand. Posit: Lat. 16-39 N. Long. 107-51 E. Sighted
     several junks during the day.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 16-38 N. Long. 107-53 E.

1818 Surfaced. Decided to investigate a junk. Closed junk on
     surface. Junk sent over boat with 5 men and we had confab
     on our forecastle. Junk was manned by Indo-Chinese. Language
     barrier prevented us from getting much information, but we
     cemented good will by giving them cigarettes, some food and
     clothes.
1940 Sighted Val. Dived!
1949 Surfaced.

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— page 83 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL.

4 April
0330 Picked up Flounder by SJ. Exchanged info.
0852 Dived.
0910 Surfaced. Will make surface patrol today.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-07 N. Long. 109-43 E.
2335 Exchanged info with Flounder by SJ.

5 April
0730 Dived.
0904 Surfaced.
1115 Sighted PBM. Talked to him on VHF.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-11 N. Long. 110-15 E.
1235 Sighted PBM.
2230 Exchanged info with Flounder by SJ.

6 April
0727 Exchanged info with Flounder by SJ. She assigned us to a
      plane guard station for air strike on Yulinkan.
0802 Dived.
1100 Sighted PBY.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-49 N. Long. 109-56 E.
1201 Surfaced for strike.
1230 Strike completed. All planes headed for home safely.
1307 Sighted Flounder.
2038 Stopped to rig vents on # 3 MBT.
2310 Exchanged info with Flounder.

7 April
0732 Dived.
1052 Surfaced.
1130 Sighted mine.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-27 N. Long. 108-53 E.
2000 Sent message to Perth requesting bombardment target before we
      leave area.

8 April
0230 Exchanged info with Flounder by SJ.
0620 SJ contact 6800 yards. It is a junk.
0703 Dived to look over junk. Nothing suspicious about junk.
0756 Sighted sailing craft with triangular sails. This is not a
      junk.

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— page 84 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL.
8 April (cont'd)
0909 JP contact of screws on strange looking sailing vessel. Broke
out silhouette of sea truck. It is definitely a sea truck.
It is the answer to a maiden's prayer. We finally have a gun
target and boy, how my boys can shoot! Looked him over. He
has several MG's. We will keep out of MG range until we have
knocked out his guns with our 5 inch gun. I realize the ex-
penditure of 5 inch ammunition will be greater this way but it
should save our gun crews.
1037 Battle surfaced with a range of 5200 yards. Started slow
deliberate fire with 5 inch gun. Target is replying with MG's
and 20MM but they are all falling short. Keeping range at
4500-5500 yards. Our 40MM's are firing spotting shots so that
they will be on the target when we close in. Our hits are
raising havoc with sea truck. He is on fire and his guns have
been silenced. Started closing in.
1150 Target sank just 13 minutes after our surfacing alarm. We
have expended 42 rounds of 5 inch and did not get a chance to
use our smaller guns, but he didn't get any hits on us. Closing
scene of sinking. The ocean is covered with 50 gallon oil
drums. During gun action sighted upper works of another ship
on the horizon. Believe it is a DD or a DE. Headed at it to
reduce our silhouette and to investigate. By using the high
periscope early, decided he was running away from us. Pursued
at full power. Replenished ammunition and cleared for gun
action.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-30 N. Long. 109-08 E.

1200 Target appears to be a small steamer.
1218 With a range of 4500 yards opened fire with the 5 inch gun.
Target replying with 20MM and MG fire which is churning the
water 50 to 100 feet short of us. Our hits are really raising
old ned with him and he still can't reach us.
1223 Ship's whole bridge superstructure is on fire. All return
fire has ceased. Ammunition officer reports only six rounds
are left. Checked fire to close range. Closed to 3500 yards
and opened up again with 5 inch and both 40MM.
1237 Have expended all 5 inch ammunition (50 rounds) and 300 rounds
of 40MM. Target is a shambles. He is afire amidships with
flames shooting 50 feet into the air. It looks like his Diesel
fuel is burning. He is loaded with oil drums. We later count-
ed over 300 of them floating in the water. Target was a large
trawler type craft. He had a 20MM mount amidships which was
torn loose and lying on its side. She had at least three MG's
and had two 200 lb. depth charges on her stern. A shell had
knocked one end off the depth charges, exposing explosive
which looked like TNT. The wreckage was full of dead and
dying Japs. After the fire got through she was awash her whole
length except for the raised bow. It was the oil drums inside
of her that was keeping her afloat and every few minutes one
would pop to the surface. The trawler had a large gasoline

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— page 85 —
[STAMP: FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY]
ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

8 April (cont'd)
engine on her forecastle for raising the anchor. Both the
sea truck and trawler were heavily camouflaged with palm
fronds. They even had them on their masts.
1335 Proceeding to the scene of the first sinking to look over
the debris.
1354 SD contact. Sighted plane coming in and dived. Looked like
a Betty.
1355 Small bomb exploded. Not too close.
1430 Surfaced.
1509 Arrived at wreckage of sea truck. The only thing left was
the wreckage of the pilot house which had broken loose from
the hull and was still floating, and hundreds of oil drums.
The pilot house had a gun platform built out of new lumber
on top of it. When we left her before in pursuit of the
trawler there had been a MG mounted on it. It was gone now.
Also a searchlight frame had been jettisoned. We found
three Japs hiding in the wreckage. As soon as they saw we
were willing to take them aboard, they came with no urging.
They were wearing army uniforms. One was a boy about 15
years old. They stated that the two ships were headed from
Tulinkan to Saigon and were loaded with army troops and oil
drums. The sea truck had 45 troops aboard and the trawler
150. Counting the crews we must have accounted for about
225 Slant-Eyes. Shot up the oil drums with .50 cal. MG and
carbine fire.
1550 Decided to look over the wreckage of the trawler.
1744 SD contact, 5 miles showing IFF.
1800 Began shooting up the oil drums with carbine fire. Our re-
covered aviator is a good shot.
1832 Arrived at wreckage. Fire was still smoldering at base of
mast. Decided to set raised forecastle on fire with fuel oil.
Went alongside bow and threw over several buckets of fuel oil
and balls of burning oil soaked rags. There is no sign of
life on the wreck. As fire got to burning well, two Japs
came crawling out from underneath some old canvas and palm
branches - we must have warmed up the seats of their pants.
One was badly wounded in his right arm. Tried to get them
to come aboard but they refused. One of them indicated he
wanted a knife to commit hari-kari. Sent down to the galley
for a sharp knife and tossed it over to him. It hit on the
deck and bounced into the water. The Jap showed no inclinat-
ion to try to recover it. Japs disappeared into the wreckage
of forecastle. Backed off and put 25 rounds of 40MM into the
bow. The fire was really blazing now. Do not believe there
are any survivors now.
1910 Started clearing the area shooting up oil drums as we departed.
2055 Can still see the flames from the wreckage. Hulk will sink
when the sea roll some of those oil drums out her hull. Sea
is smooth now.
2115 Exchanged information with Flounder. Sent dispatch to Perth
giving info on gun battle and cancelling request for bombard-
ment target.
[STAMP: FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY]
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— page 86 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

9 April
0443 Received dispatch of air strike on Yulinkan by B-24's. Pro-
     ceeding to area.
0637 Assigned plane guard station by Flounder on SJ.
0950 Dived on station.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 17-42 N. Long. 109-52 E.

1245 Surfaced for air strike. Did not hear anything on plane guard
     frequency. Can hear planes talking to subs off north end of
     Hainan.
1550 Flounder surfaced. Exchanged info.
1754 Sighted two Privateers flying low.
1809 Sighted heavy column of smoke on horizon. Looks like a ship
     on fire. Privateers must have gotten in their licks. Can see
     explosions shooting flames hundreds of feet into the air.
     Closed at full power. Must be a tanker.
1838 Ship is sea truck loaded with gasoline. The planes have done
     a good job. She is raging furnace from bow to stern.
1842 SD contact - closed to 5 miles and then started opening - no
     IFF. Did not sight him.
1850 Sighted survivors clinging to small life boat. Closed.
1900 Captured ten prisoners one of which was burned about the arms
     and legs. Started clearing the area. Found out that 3 of
     our prisoners were Korean and 7 were Indo-Chinese. Sent dope
     to Perth requesting permission to unload the Indo-Chinese on
     to a Chinese junk. Started clearing area to eastward to head
     for home.
1946 Sighted periscope. Cleared area on surface.
2132 Exchanged info with the Flounder by VHF.

10 April
0400 Instructed by CTF 71 to bring Indo-Chinese to Guam for intellig-
     ence purposes.
0740 Dived.
0916 Surfaced.
1120 Sighted PBM.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 18-17 N. Long. 111-27 E.

1752 Dived.
1853 Surfaced.
2100 Passed to OpControl of Comsubpac. Sent dispatch reporting
     for duty and requesting Guam for refit.
1230 Received dispatch from Comsubpac giving us routing instructions
     and orders to proceed to Pearl for refit.

11 April
0940 Blew up floating mine with .50 cal. gunfire.

NOON POSIT: Lat. 20-15 N. Long. 115-21 E.

1849 SJ contact on Pratas Reef. Approached island close enough to
     see that radio towers were still standing. Darkness was getting
     in so did not loiter.

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— page 87 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

12 April
0950 Sighted plane momentarily in clouds astern and had SD contact
at 14 miles.
1110 SD contact on four planes at 20 miles. Planes are going north
for a raid on Formosa or China.
1135 More planes on SD.
1141 SD contact on planes. Talked to planes on VHF.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 20-34 N. Long. 119-38 E.
1220 SD plane contact.
1240 SD plane contact.
1340 SD plane contact on planes which passed overhead. Planes are
headed south again. Talked to planes on VHF. No planes down.
1400 SD contact.
2030 Radar contact on Itbayat Island. Passed through Batan Strait.

13 April
0710 Sighted two pontoon barges in water of the type carried by
LST's. Worked out 40MM and .50 cal. MG crews on one of them.
0800 Received over RBO radio of the death of President Roosevelt.
Everyone was stunned and saddened by the news.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 20-39 N. Long. 125-05 E.
1254 SD contact at 21 miles.
2030 Sent rendezvous message to Saipan.

14 April
0000 10 cm radar interference, believed to be coming from SG sets.
Was persistent throughout the hours of darkness.
0330 Received rendezvous message from Saipan.
1041 Dived.
1058 Surfaced.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 20-40 N. Long. 131-06 E.

15 April
0100 APR contact, 200 mc. Throughout the night we had APR contacts
at 193, 197, 200, 210, & 215 mc. Also picked up 10 cm radar
interference believed originating from SG sets. There must
be a large friendly task force to the north of us.
0707 SD contact, 10 miles.
0710 B-29 flew overhead. He was showing IFF. Had several SD and
IFF contacts during the next hour and a half. Had friendly
planes on SD throughout the day.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 18-37 N. Long. 136-47 E.

16 April
0700 Many friendly planes contact. This continued throughout the day.
NOON POSIT: Lat. 15-46 N. Long. 141-24 E.

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— page 88 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

17 April
0700 Rendezvoused with LCI 371 and proceeded to Saipan.
1053 Moored alongside Fulton at Saipan. Fulton took four electric
     torpedoes from us. Fueled ship.
1100 Lt.(jg) Robert Wylie Greene, USNR, reported aboard for duty.

18 April
0900 Lt. B. P. Percy, USN, was detached to SubRon 8 for temporary
     duty. Lt. Percy to resume duties on board upon completion of
     temporary duty.
1000 Underway for Pearl with LCI 1062 as escort.
1455 Released escort.

19 April-22 April
     Daily ship and fire control drill. Concentrated on training
     of junior officers and unqualified men.

22 April
2248 SJ radar contact on Wake Island at 32,000 yards.

23 April
     Have three rounds of five inch ammunition aboard drawn at
     Saipan for training. Maneuvering into position to hold reveille
     on Wake Island.
0045 With heavy concentration of pips on Peale Island, Wake, at
     11,000 yards, began bombardment using radar ranges and bearings.
     Our tribute to the boys of December 1941. Hope we got a few
     Hips. Fuses were set on super-quick and we obtained two
     beautiful shell explosions out of the three fired. We hope
     two had round penetrated a barracks and exploded inside. Maybe
     the Hips will have to stay at battle stations the rest of the
     night. There were no APR contacts or other indications of radar.
     Their gear is probably out of commission from lack of spare
     parts. No return fire was encountered. It was too bad we
     didn't have more ammunition.

23 April-29 April
     Enroute Pearl conducting daily training.

29 April
     Rendezvoused with Silversides and PC 603. Proceeded to Pearl
     under escort.

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— page 89 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

(C) WEATHER
     Fair to good weather was experienced from Fremantle to the
Java Sea, and in the Java Sea.
     Heavy seas were first encountered in the vicinity of 6 N,
105 E. From that point to Camranh Bay, regular N.E. Monsoon
weather prevailed.
     From 22 March until 9 April the weather in the area south of
Hainan was very good. Number 1 to 2 seas were usually encountered.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION
     No information.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
     None sighted.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS
| No. | Time Date | Lat. Long. | Type(s) | Initial Range | Est.Course & Speed | How Cont. | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1748(H) 3/3/45 | 6-30 S. 112-58 E. | MFM AK 1 escort (SC) | 25,000 yds | 320° T 6.6 kts. | High Peris | Attacks 1A & 1B (See Narrative). |
| 2 | 2325(H) 3/4/45 | 5-58 S. 113-33 E. | 1 AP/AK 2 AK's 3 escorts (SC) | 18,600 yds | 040° T 8.5 kts. | BJ radar & | Attacks 2.3A 3B & 3C (See Narr.) |
| 3 | 0646(H) 3/9/45 | 1-58 S. 108-49 E. | AWA M.RU | 16,000 yds | 150° T 15 kts. | Sight | Exchange Ship Bound for Surabaya. |
| 4 | 1305(H) 3/9/45 | 0-52 N. 107-41 E. | Sailing Vessel | 8,000 yds | - | High Peris | Fishing. |
| 5 | 0430(H) 3/10/45 | 1-55 N. 105-51 E. | Fishing vessel | 1,500 yds | - | Sight | Fishing. |
| 6 | 0820(H) 3/13/45 | 11-43 N. 109-28 E. | Sailing Junk | 5,000 yds | 270° T 8 kts. | Peris | Fishing. |
| 7 | 0145(H) 3/30/45 | 17-56 N. 109-04 E. | 5 DD's 1 CL | 15,000 yds | 320° T 15 kts. | Sight & SJ | (See Narrative). |
| 8 | 1000(I) 4/8/45 | 17-30 N. 109-02 E. | 1 Sea-Truck & 1 Trawler | 8,000 yds | 200° T 6 kts. | Peris Sub. | Both Sunk by Gun fire. |
| 9 | 1813(I) 4/9/45 | 17-23 N. 109-00 E. | 1 Sea-Trucks. | 20,000 yds | 040° T 0 kts. | High Peris | Destroyed by planes. |

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— page 90 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN
Time: 2016-30(H)
TORPEDO ATTACK No. 14 PATROL No. 2.
Date March 3, 1945 Lat. 6-29 S. Long. 112-48 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:
One medium MFM AK and one spit kit escort.
Two prisoners wrote the name of the ship
out in Japanese and the third who said he
did not know the name of the ship tran-
slated the Japanese to SEA TAN MARU. No
record of such a ship can be found on
board. The nearest we can come to it is
SEITAI MARU which looks like the ship
sunk. We assume that the correct name of
the ship can be obtained from the prisoners
by someone who can speak Japanese. Contact
made by high periscope at 25,000 yds. at
1748(H). No. 2 sea from northwest.

Ship(s) Sunk:
One 3405 ton AK (SEITAI MARU).

Ship(s) Damaged:
None.

Damaged determined by:
Hearing and seeing torpedo hit target.
Pieces of the target and flames went 400 ft.
high. The target's radar pip disappeared
and target was seen to sink by the bridge
personnel three minutes and three seconds
after torpedo hit. Much debris, including
life boats, and many survivors were sighted
in the area; three prisoners were taken
aboard.

Target draft 10 ft. (E) Course 320°T Speed 6.6 kts. Range 2000 yds.
at firing.

Own Ship Data

Course 073.5° T Speed 12 kts.

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Surface attack, the escort was on target's starboard bow until just
before firing when he dropped back. When target sank the escort fled.

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— page 91 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

                  1       2       3       4
Tubes fired No.   74 P    75 P    76 P    76 P
Track angle       354°    354°    355°    355.5°
Gyro angle
Depth set         6 ft.   6 ft.   6 ft.   6 ft.
Power             -       -       -       -
Hit or Miss       Miss    Hit     Miss    Miss
Erratic           No      No      No      No
Mark Torpedo      18-2    18-2    18-2    18-2
Serial No.        57425   57822   57396   57772
Mark Exploder     8-5     8-5     8-5     8-5
Serial No.        10997   10049   9718    11202
Actuation set     Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation actual  -       -       -       -
Mark Warhead      18-2    18-2    18-2    18-2
Serial No.        4272    4580    4259    4152
Explosive         TPX-2   TPX-2   TPX-2   TPX-2
Firing interval   -       10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec.
Type spread       Div     Div     Div     Div
Sea Conditions    2       2       2       2

Overhaul activity           U.S.S. EURYALE.

Remarks: Misses due to spread. The hit was two minutes and seven
         seconds after firing # 1. Ship sank three minutes and three
         seconds after hit.

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— page 92 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN TORPEDO ATTACK No. 1B PATROL No. 2
Time: 2021(H) Date March 3, 1945 Lat. 6-29 S. Long. 112-48 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted
Description: Same as attack 1A.
Ship(s) Sunk: Same as attack 1A.
Ship(s) Damaged: None.
Damage determined by: Same as attack 1A.
Target draft 10 ft.(E) Course 325° T Speed 4 kts. Range 1700 yds.
at firing.

Own Ship Data
Course 192° T Speed 16 kts.

Fire Control and Torpedo Data
The target was sunk by the hit from attack 1A before the after torpedo
could reach the target.

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— page 93 —
U.S.S. SEA IN (SS407) - REPORT OF SEC) WAR PATROL

Tubes fired No.             8             9             10
Track angle                126° P        127° P        128° P
Gyro angle                 187°          188°          189°
Depth set                  6 ft.         6 ft.         6 ft.
Power                      H1            H1            H1
Hit or Miss                -             -             -
Erratic                    No            No            No
Mark Torpedo               14-3A         14-3A         14-3A
Serial No.                 63874         63707         63838
Mark Exploder              6-5           6-5           6-5
Serial No.                 26127         26957         7154
Actuation set              Contact       Contact       Contact
Actuation actual           -             -             -
Mark Warhead               16-1          16-1          16-1
Serial No.                 19532         15028         14721
Explosive                  TPX-2         TPX-2         TPX-2
Firing interval            -             8 sec.        8 sec.
Type spread                Div           Div           Div
Sea Conditions             2             2             2
Overhaul activity          U.S.S. EURYALE.

Remarks: The ship sank one minute after firing tube number 8, or
         before torpedoes could reach target with 1750 yards torpedo
         run.

-30-

— page 94 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN TORPEDO ATTACK No. 2 PATROL No. 2
Time: 0128(H) Date March 5, 1945 Lat. 5-56.4 S.Long.113-45.9 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: One large AP/AK in convoy consisting of
one AP/AK, two AK's and three escorts.
Convoy contacted by SJ radar at 2320(H)
March 4, 1945 at 18,000 yds. Visibility
very good moonlight. No. 3 sea from
northwest.

Ship(s) Sunk: One large AP/AK believed to be SAKURA
MARU 7167 tons (EU). This target was
identified by C.O. as belonging to this
class and prisoners state SAKURA MARU
was in Surabaya when they left the day
before. This vessel was coming from
Surabaya when sunk.

Ship(s) Damaged: None.

Damaged determined by: Three torpedo hits. Flames and pieces
of target went 500 feet in the air.
Target was aflame from bow to stern with
masts, coal posts, and bridge structure
sticking out at all angles. Breaking up
noises were heard through the hull and
on the sound gear. After a particularly
loud series they stopped for a few minutes
after Sea Robin went deep. Sea Robin
surfaced one hour later 6000 yds from scene
of sinking. All escorts were present and
the two small AK's were picked up on radar
soon after but this target was not present.
Sea Robin returned to scene after daylight
and the escorts were still picking up
survivors. It is believed this was an
important ship as all other ships in convoy
were protecting it.

Target draft 15 ft.(E) Course 040° T Speed 8.5 kts. Range 980 yds.
at firing.

Course 195.5° T Speed 3 kts.

Own Ship Data

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Submerged approach from 11,000 yds. At time of firing the nearest
escort was 350 yds ahead of us.

-31-

— page 95 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

Tubes fired No.             1         2         3
Track angle                 30 S      32 S      36 S
Gyro angle                  054°      057°      060°
Depth set                   4 ft.     4 ft.     4 ft.
Power                       -         -         -
Hit or Miss                 Hit       Hit       Hit
Erratic                     No        No        No
Mark Torpedo                18-2      18-1      18-2
Serial No.                  57691     56394     57454
Mark Exploder               8-5       8-5       8-5
Serial No.                  9806      11195     11094
Actuation set               Contact   Contact   Contact
Actuation actual            Contact   Contact   Contact
Mark Warhead                18-2      18-2      18-2
Serial No.                  4619      4215      4558
Explosive                   TPX-2     TPX-2     TPX-2
Firing interval             -         10 sec.   10 sec.
Type spread                 Div       Div       Div
Sea Conditions              3         3         3
Overhaul activity           U.S.S. EURYALE.

Remarks: The three hits were 1 min. and 1 sec., 1 min. and 6 sec.,
         1 min. and 15 sec., respectively after firing number 1 tube.
         The target sank almost immediately.

-32-

— page 96 —
U.S.S. SEA R IN (SS407) - REPORT OF SEC WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN TORPEDO ATTACK No. 3A PATROL No. 2
Time: 0452:30 (H) Date March 5, 1945 Lat. 5-41.8 S. Long.114-01.9 E.

                       Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:         The larger AK of the two small AK's in
                     the convoy described in attack No. 2

Ship(s) Sunk:        One unidentified small AK 2500 tons (UN).

Ship(s) Damaged:     None.

Damage determined by: Seeing and hearing torpedo hit. The
                     target was seen to roll over towards the
                     side hit and immediately sink. Range to
                     target when she sank was 300 yards.

Target draft 10 ft.(E) Course 040° T Speed 7.5 kts. Range 1050 yds.
at firing.

                           Own Ship Data

Course 162.5° T Speed 2 kts.

                     Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Submerged attack. The two AK's at this time had no escorts; two
of the convoy's escorts were rescuing survivors from the AP/AK and
the third had tried to cut us off to the westward but the Sea Robin
ran around her and this escort arrived at the scene just after the
third and last ship was sunk. This target was hit by one torpedo
forward of the bridge on the port side. After being hit she spun
around to port, capsized to port, and then sank stern first. This
took not much over a minute.

-33-

— page 97 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

Tubes fired No.             4.         5          6
Track angle                70 P       72 P       75 P
Gyro angle                 347°       346°       346.5°
Depth set                  4 ft.      4 ft.      4 ft.
Power                      -          -          -
Hit or Miss                Hit        Miss       Miss
Erratic                    No         No         No
Mark Torpedo               18-2       18-2       18-2
Serial No.                 57870      57440      57467
Mark Exploder              8-5        8-5        8-5
Serial No.                 11226      11130      8820
Actuation set              Contact    Contact    Contact
Actuation actual           Contact    -          -
Mark Warhead               18-2       18-2       18-2
Serial No.                 4187       4442       4551
Explosive                  TPX-2      TPX-2      TPX-2
Firing interval            -          10 sec.    10 sec.
Type spread                Div        Div        Div
Sea Conditions             3          3          3
Overhaul activity          U.S.S. EURYALE.

Remarks: Number 4 hit 1 min. zero sec. after firing. Misses were
          due to spread. The target sank immediately.

-34-

— page 98 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN TORPEDO ATTACK No. 3B PATROL No. 2
Time: 0455 (H) Date March 5, 1945 Lat. 5-42 S. Long. 114-02 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: The smaller of the two AK's in the convoy
described in attack number 2.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.
Ship(s) Damaged: None.
Damaged determined by: None.

Own Ship Data

Course 211° T Speed 4 kts.

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Submerged attack. Two of the convoy's escorts were rescuing survivors
from the AP/AK, and the third had tried to cut us off to the westward,
away from the convoy, but Sea Robin ran around her and this escort
arrived at the scene just after the third and last ship was sunk.

-35-

— page 99 —
U.S.S. S.L. ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

Tubes fired No.         8         9         10
Track angle             96 S      97 S      99 S
Depth set               4 ft.     4 ft.     4 ft.
Power                   HI        HI        HI
Hit or Miss             Miss      Miss      Miss
Erratic                 No        No        No
Mark Torpedo            14-3A     14-3A     14-3A
Serial No.              63774     63831     66360
Mark Exploder           6-5       6-5       6-5
Serial No.              26265     26855     26458
Actuation set           Contact   Contact   Contact
Actuation actual        -         -         -
Mark Warhead            16-1      16-1      16-1
Serial No.              15017     15038     19594
Explosive               TPX-2     TPX-2     TPX-2
Firing interval         -         8 sec.    8 sec.
Type spread             Div       Div       Div
Sea Conditions          3         3         3
Overhaul Activity                 U.S.S. EURYALE.
Remarks: The reason for misses were due to the target zigging when
          the target in attack #3A was hit.

-36-

— page 100 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN TORPEDO ATTACK No! 3C PATROL No! 2
Time: 0503(H) Date March 5, 1945 Lat. 5-42 S. Long. 114-02 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Same target as in attack 3B with the bow
tubes. Small MFM AK.

Ship(s) Sunk: One unidentified small AK 2000 tons (UN).

Ship(s) Damaged: None.

Damage determined by: Seeing and hearing torpedo hit. The
target was seen by all the conning tower
personnel in two distinct halves and each
half was seen to sink; first the forward
part, bow last; then the after part, stern
last. The range of the target as the stern
sank was 300 yards.

Target draft 10 ft.(E) Course 143° T Speed 7.5 kts. Range 900 yds.

Own Ship Data

Course 046° T Speed 2 kts.

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Submerged attack. When surfacing after sinking this target, the third
escort was picked up at 3600 yds just arriving on the scene. The first
two escorts were still picking up survivors from the AP/AK. During
and immediately preceding this attack the target was making radical
maneuvers to avoid. We waited for a good angle on the bow and when
the target showed a 90 starboard angle on the bow, the tubes were fired.
The ship broke in two and the bow sank in about one minute and the
stern in about 4 minutes.

37-

— page 101 —
U.S.S. SE. RUBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

| | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes fired No. | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Track angle | 109 S | 102 S | 105 S |
| Depth set | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 4 ft. |
| Power | - | - | - |
| Hit or Miss | Hit | Miss | Miss |
| Erratic | No | No | No |
| Mark torpedo | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Serial No. | 57872 | 57773 | 57429 |
| Mark Exploder | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 |
| Serial No. | 11173 | 9700 | 9555 |
| Actuation set | Contact | Contact | Contact |
| Actuation actual | Contact | - | - |
| Mark Warhead | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Serial No. | 4539 | 4606 | 3516 |
| Explosive | TPX-2 | TPX-2 | TPX-2 |
| Firing interval | - | 10 sec. | 10 sec. |
| Type spread | Div | Div | Div |
| Sea Conditions | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Overhaul activity | U.S.S. EURYALE. | | |
| Remarks: The hit was forty seven seconds after firing tube number one, | | | |

-38-

— page 102 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN TORPEDO ATTACK No. 4 PATROL No. 2
Time: 0243(H) Date March 30, 1945 Lat. 17-54 N. Long. 109-04 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: One TERUTSUKI class DD 2300 tons (EU)
             in a task force of 6 DD's. Contact
             was made by sight in bright moonlight.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.
Ship(s) Damaged: None.
Damage determined by: None.

Target draft 9 ft. Course 065° T Speed 13 kts. Range 1200 yds at
firing.

Own Ship Data

Speed 2 kts. Course 229° T Depth 59 ft. Angle 0°.

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Submerged attack using periscope radar. While we were making our
approach PBM's were in contact, thereby causing the task force to
zigzag radically, sometimes over 90°.

-39-

— page 103 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

| | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes fired No. | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Track angle | 110 P | 115 P | 120 P |
| Gyro angle | 266 | 258 | 257 |
| Depth set | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 4 ft. |
| Power | Hi | Hi | Hi |
| Hit or Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss |
| Erratic | No | No | No |
| Mark Torpedo | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A |
| Serial No. | 66209 | 63818 | 63789 |
| Mark Exploder | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 |
| Serial No. | 32554 | 32609 | 32653 |
| Actuation set | Contact | Contact | Contact |
| Actuation actual | - | - | - |
| Mark Warhead | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 |
| Serial No. | 15029 | 5375 | 12869 |
| Explosive | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex |
| Firing interval | - | 8 sec. | 8 sec. |
| Type spread | Div. | Div. | Div. |
| Sea Conditions | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Overhaul activity | U.S.S. ANTHEDON. | | |

Remarks: The reason for misses was that the target zigged 90°
          immediately after firing. We then went deep for a
          depth charging.

-40-

— page 104 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

U.S.S. SEA ROBIN TORPEDO ATTACK No. 5 PATROL No. 2.
Time: 0607 (II) Date March 30, 1945 Lat. 17-59 N. Long. 108-49 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Six DD's or 5 DD's and 1 CL (EU).
Same task force attacked 3 hours earlier.
Contact was made by sight just prior to
sunrise in excellent visibility.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged: None.

Damage determined by: None.

Target draft 9 ft. Course 040° T Speed 11 kts. Range 8000 yds. at
firing.

Own Ship Data

Speed 3 kts. Course 040° T Depth Surface Angle 0°.

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Surface low power shots. Spreads of 2½° L to 2½° R were set on the
torpedoes at the tubes. The reasons for having to fire low power
shots were that the targets were headed for the beach in 90 feet of
water and dawn was at hand, thereby removing any chance of our over-
taking them.

-41-

— page 105 —
U.S.S. SEA RO N (SS407) - REPORT OF SECO1 WAR PATROL
Tubes fired No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
Track angle | 180° | 180° | 180° | 180° | 180° | 180°
Gyro angle | 2½° L | 1½° L | ½° L | ½° R | 1½° R | 2½° R
Depth set | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 4 ft.
Power | Low | Low | Low | Low | Low | Low
Hit or Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss
Erratic | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No
Mark Torpedo | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A
Serial No. | 63924 | 63940 | 63817 | 63876 | 63950 | 63919
Mark Exploder | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5
Serial No. | 26863 | 26907 | 26777 | 32657 | 26926 | 32543
Actuation set | Cont. | Cont. | Cont. | Cont. | Cont. | Cont.
Actuation actual | - | - | - | - | - | -
Mark Warhead | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1
Serial No. | 12584 | 12901 | 13040 | 12850 | 12600 | 1559
Explosive | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex
Firing interval | - | 8 sec. | 8 sec. | 8 sec. | 8 sec. | 8 sec.
Type spread | Div | Div | Div | Div | Div | Div
Sea Conditions | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2

Overhaul activity U.S.S. ANTHEDON.

Remarks: Torpedo # 63924 ran erratic courses and torpedo # 63940
broached all the way down the range. All torpedoes left
a very definite wake and smoke trail.

-42-

— page 106 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN GUN ATTACK No. 1 PATROL No. 2
Time: 1050(I) Date April 8, 1945 Lat. 17-28 N. Long.109-13 E.

Target Data - Damaged Inflicted

Sunk: One Sea Truck, 150 tons (EC), identified
by ONI weekly dated September 27, 1944,
page 3078.

Damaged: None.

Damage determined by: Saw target sink. Three prisoners captured.

Details of Action

At 0756(I) on April 8, sighted sails while investigating a
junk; on closing to investigate, made JP contact and recognized
silhouette as being a sea truck heavily loaded with drums. At
1037 battle surfaced with the 5" 25 cal. gun, opening range 5200
yds. With an average range of 4800 yds. 42 rounds of HCPD ammunition
were fired sinking target at 1050. Tho range was kept over 4500 yds.
to insure staying out of range of enemy machine gun fire which was
churning the water about one hundred yards short. The 5" 25 cal.
gun is a very effective gun and when used with radar ranges and
periscope spotting this gun is extremely accurate. No erratic per-
formances were experienced.

-43-

— page 107 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN GUN ATTACK No. 2 PATROL No. 2
Time: 1218 (I) Date April 8, 1945 Lat. 17-29 N. Long. 109-09 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted
Sunk: One trawler - 700 tons (EC)

Damaged: None.
Damage determined by: Saw target sink.

Details of Action
While making Gun Attack No. 1 sighted this target coming
over the horizon, and when they saw us firing at the first
target reversed course. After sinking target No. 1 we gave chase
and at 1218(I) commenced firing with the 5" 25 Cal. gun at 4500
yards. The target returned fire with 20MM and machine guns
coming within a few yards short of us. After direct hits on
her bridge, bow and stern, very little return fire was received.
We then closed to 3800 yards and opened up with our two 40MM's.
The target at this time was in flames, and showed no signs of
life. 50 rounds of 5" HCPD and 6 rounds of 5" AA plus 300 rounds
of 40MM were fired. What kept the target afloat with hundreds
of holes was the fact that she was carrying several hundred empty
oil drums, making her very buoyant. 2000 rounds of 50 cal. machine
gun ammunition were fired at both this target and No. 1 target's
empty oil drums which floated off when the targets sank.
Fire control was the same as in target No. 1, for the 5" 25
cal. gun and battery officers spotted each 40MM gun separately
at the gun. No erratic performances were experienced.

-44-

— page 108 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS
Before reload -
Several float planes (Daves or Petes) and one flying patrol boat
were seen in Java Sea Area. None were apparently radar equipped. One
unidentified plane contact by SD radar was made on the afternoon of
the evening of the transit of Lombok. One patrol plane sight contact
was made in the vicinity of Puolo Saputu. It could have been one of
our search planes from Mindoro.

After reload -
Sighted several B-25's, B-24's, PBM's, P-51's, and PBY's. Sight-
ed only 2 float planes, one Betty, one Val, and 2 Tojos. One can
readily see that Jap air power has suffered materially.

(H) ATTACK DATA

See pages 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39,
40, 41, 42, 43, and 44.

(I) MINES
Sighted 4 floating mines.

Mine Contact | Time & Date | Lat. & Long. | How Cont. | Remarks
# 1 | 0738(H) | 18-02 N. | Sight | Fired 1 belt of
| 3/30/45 | 108-41 E. | | .50 cal. Did
| | | | not sink it.
# 2 | 1045 (I) | 16-39 N. | Peris. | Passed within
| 4/3/45 | 107-51E. | | 50 ft. while
| | | | submerged.
# 3. | 1130(I) | 17-29 N. | Sight | -
| 4/7/45 | 108-48 E. | |
# 4 | 0940 (I) | 20-07 N. | Sight | Exploded mine by
| 4/11/45 | 114-47 E. | | .50 cal. fire.

(J) ANTISUBMARINE MEASURES AND COUNTER ATTACKS
Before reload -
The first ship sunk was the result of a surface approach. A
small escort with this AK fled the scene of sinking at 9 knots. No
random depth charges were dropped.
The second, third and fourth ships sunk were the results of end-
arounds and night submerged approaches. No depth charges were dropped.
Echo ranging was detected during the submerged attacks. On the first
night submerged attack, an escort was 350 yards from us as the ship
he was escorting blew up and sank. Went deep to 235 ft. and rigged
for silent running. Screws were heard all around the compass, but no
charges were dropped, nor did the escorts make contact. Evaded by
fish-tailing at 70 rpm. The escorts in the Java Sea Area appeared to
be very much bewildered by it all. The day following the three
submerged attacks was spent evading float planes and escorts. One
small bomb was received from a float plane.

-45-

— page 109 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
(J) ANTISUBMARINE MEASURES AND COUNTER ATTACKS (cont'd)
After reload -
Picked up several APR contacts 150 Mc which we believe were
Jap radar search planes. We were never particularly bothered by
these planes.
No new anti-measures were encountered. After missing the 6
DD's at night, went deep to 220 feet. The angle on the bow at the
DD we fired at became zero at a range of 1000 yds, when we went
deep. Only four depth charges were dropped. Believe they were
short of depth charges and in a hurry to go north.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE
Before reload -
The starboard propeller was apparently damaged during the
attacks on the enemy in period 4-6 March. Since this period, heavy
vibration has been noted at high speeds, and the starboard shaft
requires more power for a given number of turns.
The Master gyro compass developed a 3.5° westerly error.
The auxiliary gyro compass became erratic on 13 March - was
off as much as 14 degrees.
No. 2 periscope appears to have an optical misalignment in
high power.
Booster blower in C/R was slowed down during last refit, causing
insufficient air forward.

After reload -
The Master gyro became erratic after repairs were effected at
Subic. After 30 hours of work, ship's force made repairs. The
follow up coil came loose. Request a thorough check up on this ever
important piece of equipment during our refit.
Twice during this patrol # 4 outboard exhaust valve would not
close. Both times a cotter pin sheared allowing monel pin and
pressure piece to fall clear rendering the linkage inoperative.
On 25 March, an unusual knocking noise was heard in the blower
of # 1 M.E. The engine was stopped immediately. The outer impeller
shaft bearings were checked and found to be excessively hot. The
rollers in the lower bearing appeared to be very loose. The outer
bearing plate was removed and the lobes inspected. The after end of
the upper lobes had wiped against the upper plate leaving thin sheets
of aluminum on the plate. The after ends of all lobes were badly
pitted. The engine was put out of commission for the rest of the
patrol. It is believed that the casualty was caused by the failure
of the outer impeller bearings.
The following casualty to the aux. generator occurred: While
charging batteries on the auxiliary Engine, the generator bearing
drain pump became air bound. The generator bearing sump filled,
(the normal overflow vent being too small to prevent this). The
lubricating oil was forced past the oil seal ring and flooded oil
into casing, covering armature with oil.

-46-

— page 110 —
U.S.S. SEA ROB (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

(L) RADIO
Before reload -
The reception of the Baker schedules was in general good with the
exception of occasional signal fading. The best all around frequency
was 12630 kcs.
Radio Chungking (NKN) was guarded while in the South China Sea
Area. Reception was fair.
A total of seven messages were sent to CTF 71.1, all of which were
transmitted on 8470 kcs. The first three and seventh were cleared
direct to VIXO. The fourth, fifth and sixth were relayed to VIXO by
VHM (Darwin), VHAL (USRAD Darwin) and Z4N (Base Ship Biak) respectively.
The only radio material casualty was that of the center antenna.
It broke four feet forward of the after insulator (the one attached to
periscope shears) and its failure upon inspection was found to be due
to welding burns received during refit. A new antenna was installed
at sea by ship's force.

After reload -
A total of nine messages were sent to CTF 71.1 on the second half
of this patrol. The first and third were cleared direct to VIXO. Z4N
relayed the second, fourth, fifth and sixth, VHAL the seventh and
eighth and NPN the ninth.
Reception of the Baker schedules was in general only fair due to
the fading, jamming and atmospheric interference. When these condit-
ions were encountered we shifted our guard to VHM (Darwin) and copied
their "cora" sked.
Communication with aircraft by VHF was excellent and proved to
be a major factor in the rescue of an Army pilot. Although the VHF
transceiver was run continuously we experienced no break down what-
soever.
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
A continuous guard was kept on the Wolf Pack frequency and
reception was very good. Incorrect authentication of Wolf Pack
messages seem to be the cause of much unnecessary communication and
operators should be instructed to exercise more care in the use of
the authentication cipher card.
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
No serious radio material casualties were encountered during
this part of the patrol.

(M) RADAR
Before reload -
Radar material performance on this patrol was good due to the
excellent work done during the refit period.
There were no failures in the SD and associated IFF equipment,
and no operational time was lost. The equipment was used only at
opportune times and the usual ranges on both planes and land were
obtained. With the SD being keyed ten seconds out of every minute
when in use, one instance was encountered where a low flying plane
got in to five miles before being spotted by the JOOD. No SD contact
was made. (See section on countermeasures for further details of
this plane's actions).

-47-

— page 111 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

(M) R.D.R (cont'd)
The only trouble in the APR/SPA gear was a poor 955 tube in TN/2
which was detected by poor reception of our own radar signals. No
operational time was lost and three Japanese radar signals were inter-
cepted in addition to numerous allied radar contacts. (See section on
countermeasures for details of these three signals).
Performance of the ST was excellent in our two submerged attacks.
Before diving for our first submerged attack we shifted from SJ to ST
on the surface and had a good echo on the 8000 ton target at 11,000
yards. At 55 feet our first echo was obtained on our first look at
9000 yards. On attempting to shift targets after firing our first
spread we had an echo at 350 yards which proved to be the closest
escort. For once we were thankful for the ST's wide beam width for
otherwise this ship might have slipped in unnoticed under the prevailin
visibility conditions. A good plot of convoy disposition should be
obtained by SJ prior to an ST attack if time allows for ST analysis
is difficult unless approximate positions and ranges of ships are
known. On our second ST attack both targets were plotted in from
6,000 yards with frequent looks using the previously established SJ
target designations ABLE and BAKER.
The only trouble in the ST was the shorting of a plate filter
condenser on one of the 6AK5's in the selector unit. Since this is
a common I.F. strip for both ST and SJ, the SJ was out of commission
for an hour while this condenser was replaced.
SJ performance was good. The only loss of operational time has
been mentioned above. One of the drawbacks in the many SJ-ST inter-
connections is that many failures in either SJ or ST put both sets
out of commission until repairs are made. Tuning of both SJ and ST
was affected by # 1 periscope lighting. This trouble is believed to
be due to a bad cable from the indicator unit to the selector unit.
This trouble has disappeared at present, but will be investigated
thoroughly as soon as possible.
Other SJ troubles are as follows: (1) a bad 5R4G tube in the "A"
regulated rectifier. (2) a bad 6AC7 (V10) in the range unit caused
a double step with a range displacement of about 10,000 yards instead
of the customary 2000 yards. (3) a bad 6AC7 in the SJ indicator I.F.
strip caused loss of gain. (4) a ground in the range dial lighting
was a shorting out of one bulb and the burning out of the other.
The construction of this light bulb holder is cheap. (5) TR tube
failure again; the same old headache. Transmitter must be retuned
when this tube is replaced with particular attention given to the TR
cavity. (6) Our modulation network appears to be leaking oil and
will be replaced if necessary. (7) SJ training notes and control is
not rugged enough for the job it is doing and the contacts are badly
burned.
Some SJ ranges obtained were: (1) 28,000 yards on 3000 ton
target. (Coached on bearing by periscope). (2) 24,000 yards on
AW. MARU (11,000 tons) (Coached on by Periscope). (3) 18,000 yards
initial contact on six ship convoy. (Largest ship 8,000 tons). (4)
Usual ranges out to 80,000 yards on land.

-48-

— page 112 —
U.S.S. SE. ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL.

(M) RADAR (cont'd)
After reload -
     Radar material performance on the second half of the patrol
was excellent. There were no failures in the SD or IFF equipments,
and good results were obtained using five second keying. When not
in use the SD was left in a standby condition, so that it would be
readily available in case of 150 megacycle APR contacts.
     The only trouble in the APR/SP gear was due to the opening
of the high voltage winding in the main power transformer of the
SPA. This transformer was replaced with the loss of one and one
half hours operational time. Many Japanese radar signals were de-
tected. (See section on countermeasures for details of enemy
signals).
     Only one occasion arose for the use of the ST. Six thousand
yard ranges were obtained at 55 feet on the destroyers in our night
attack. No troubles were encountered in the ST.
     The only failure in the SJ was caused by a bad 3B24 tube in
the PPI. Prior to its actual failure it caused intermittent inter-
ference on both the PPI and "A" scope. V4 (6L6) in the PPI was
also replaced after the failure of the 3B24 since it had carried
excessive current. No operation time was lost as the "A" scope
was kept in operation while repairs were made.
     In the area south of Hainan we were troubled at night by small
contacts which were picked up between one and four thousand yards
with very smooth seas prevailing. At first we thought they might
be small fishing boats, or objects in the water but this was proved
false on most occasions. They were definitely not second trip
echoes, so we then thought they might be bird echoes. We tried
running the SJ in the daytime and were able to get these pips with
definite bearings and ranges with nothing present. Sun spots were
observed during this period, so they may have been due to reflect-
ions from ionized layers. We called these pips "mileormores" for
want of a better name.

(N) SONAR GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS
Before reload -
     Only two troubles of major importance were encountered in
the sound gear. The cable to the QB head was cut in two due to
negligence while lowering the head, and the JP upper bearing
developed a loud metallic squeak which could not be removed by
a thorough greasing.
     We had three chances to observe sound conditions: (1) On
the morning of March 5, 1945 at 0130(H) we dived to the bottom in
238 feet of isothermal water. Lat. 5-28 S. Long. 113-42 E. We
had no trouble tracking the escorts on all three sound gears.
no depth charges. Pinging (17 kc.) was heard about three hours
later during our next attack. (2) At dawn on March 9, 1945 in
100 feet of isothermal water off Karimata Island, JP heard the
screws of the MA MARU (11,000 tons) at 25,000 yards, and was able
to give a good bearing so that the man at the periscope could
locate the masts which were barely visible. (3) Trouble was
experienced in obtaining soundings off Indo-China in less than 100
fathoms of water due to sharp negative gradients. 8° at 100 feet
on March 12, 1945, 1200(H). Lat. 8-33 N. Long. 108-41 E.
-49-

— page 113 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

(N) SONAR GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS (cont'd)
After reload
No troubles of any importance occured in the sound gear. JP
and JK tracked escorts and destroyers well in isothermal water at
0100, 30 March, 1945. Lat. 18-06 N. Long. 108-51 E. JK & QB
lost sea truck screws at 2500 yards and JP at 3000 yards in isother-
mal water at 1000, 8 April, 1945. Lat. 17-30 N. Long. 109-02 E.
The DCDI failed to function properly during a depth charging.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS

Date | Time | Lat. | Long. | Amt. Of Gradient | Range of Gradient
---|---|---|---|---|---
22 Feb. 1945 | 0200(H) | 32-09 S. | 115-11 E. | 3° | 300-450 ft.
26 Feb. 1945 | 1600(H) | 23-54 S. | 112-24 E. | 11° | 140-390 ft.
28 Feb. 1945 | 1600(H) | 18-10 S. | 113-37 E. | 13° | 130-400 ft.
1 Mar. 1945 | 1600(H) | 13-33 S. | 114-39 E. | 15° | 140-400 ft.
5 Mar. 1945 | 0126(H) | 5-28 S. | 113-42 E. | 0° | 0-240 ft.
12 Mar. 1945 | 1200(H) | 8-33 N. | 108-41 E. | 8° | 60-120 ft.
13 Mar. 1945 | 1400(H) | 11-55 N. | 109-51 E. | 8° | 80-150 ft.
19 Mar. 1945 | 1300(H) | 14-36 N. | 119-13 E. | 12° | 300-450 ft.
21 Mar. 1945 | 1533(H) | 14-32 N. | 113-40 E. | 16° | 250-420 ft.
23 Mar. 1945 | 0800(H) | 18-01 N. | 109-38 E. | 5° | 70-100 ft.
30 Mar. 1945 | 0100(H) | 18-06 N. | 108-51 E. | 2° | 0-250 ft.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY
The health of the crew was excellent except for a few minor
head colds, and a few sea-sick Japs. One man suffered off and on
from kidney trouble. We will send him to a hospital for a thorough
check up.
The food was well prepared.
Habitability was good, except for improper ventilation in the
F/B and FTR.

(Q) PERSONNEL
(a) No.of men detached after previous patrol . . . . . 17
(b) No. of men on board during patrol77
(c) No. of men qualified at start of patrol . . . . . 44
(d) No. of men qualified at end of patrol. . . . . . 60
(e) No. of men advanced in rating during patrol . . . 11
(f) No. of unqualified men making their first patrol 17

The officers and men received from the relief crew during the
last refit were an excellent addition to the ship. The state of
training of these men is far superior to that of men received from
relief crews a year ago. The Commanding Officer is proud of the
way all officers and men performed their duties during a running
two day battle with Jap ships, escorts, and planes, although the
Sea Robin had only been out of port one week and all hands were
just getting settled to patrol routine.

-50-

— page 114 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECON WAR PATROL

(R) TOTAL MILES STEAMED
Before reload -
(The Sea Robin never did reach her area)
Miles . . . . . 5754 Fuel . . . . . 69,146

After reload -
Miles to area . . . . . 1,316 Fuel to area . . . . . 17,837
Miles in area . . . . . 4,626 Fuel in area . . . . . 62,473
Miles area to Saipan. . 3,000 Fuel area to Saipan . 31,500
Miles Saipan to Pearl . 3,500 Fuel Saipan to Pearl . 55,000

Total Miles . . . . . . 12,442 Total Fuel . . . . . . 166,810

Grand Total Miles . . . 18,196 Grand Total Fuel . . . 235,956

(S) DURATION
Before reload -
Total days on patrol . . . . . 20
Days submerged 3
Days for reload . . . . . . . 4
After reload -
Total days on patrol . . . . . 30
Days in area 23
Days submerged 7
Days Saipan to Pearl . . . . . 11 - Total Days on Patrol [HANDWRITTEN: 66]

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
Before reload -
Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel
3 49,000 . . 50 40

After reload -
Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel
13 *7,000 . . 30 10

(U) COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES
Before reload -

Radar Countermeasures
Three enemy radar signals were intercepted.
1. 1930(H) 2 March 1945.
   Lat. 8-49.5 S.
   Long. 115-42.2 E.
   [HANDWRITTEN: ~3µs ->]
   197 mcps. 1000 P.R.F. (slow continuous rotation)

Probable land based air search set on Bali.

* at Saipan

-51-

— page 115 —
U.S.S. ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
(U) COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES (cont'd)
Before reload (cont'd) -

2. 0500(H) 13 March 1945.
   Lat. 11-22.0 N.
   Long. 109-25.3 E.

   155 mcps. 490 P.R.F.
   [HANDWRITTEN: 25µs] (keyed and rotating)

   This contact was at first thought to be airborne, but little
   change of intensity was noted over about one half hour's time.
   The signal never reached SPA saturation strength. Since it
   was keyed and rotating we finally concluded that it was probably
   shipborne as an escort was known to be in the vicinity.

3. 1700(H) 13 March 1945.
   Lat. 12-09.7 N.
   Long. 110-02.8 E.

   106-111 mcps. 250-1000 P.R.F.
   [HANDWRITTEN: 30µs] (rotating)

   Probable land based air search. High sine wave content. May
   have been trying to jam SD.

   On March 2, 1945 at 1215(H) we had what appeared to be sinusoidal
   jamming on the SD. At first we thought that this might be an
   internal trouble and various equipments were secured in an attempt
   to locate a possible cause. We had previously had an SD contact
   at 35-40 miles and again at 20 miles. This plane was not detected
   by the SD again, but was picked up visually on the bridge coming
   in low about five miles away. The jamming was picked up again
   on surfacing but no further contact was made with the plane. The
   jammer could not be picked up on the APR between keyings and the
   jamming would start soon after we keyed our transmitter. This
   pattern has never been seen on the SD cope before or since.
   This jamming could easily have been read through.

   sweep jumps
   vertically
   [HANDWRITTEN: drawing of a waveform]
   Lat. 9-33.2 S.
   Long. 115-37.8 E.

   No ten centimeter interference other than SJ was encountered.

Communication Countermeasures

   1. No interceptions.
   2. The only interference encountered was on 4370 kcs. It was very
      effective as it was impossible to copy on this frequency at any
      time. The interference was in the form of Japanese CW signals.
      As to whether or not it was intentional is not known.
   3. No deception.

Sonar Countermeasures

   No information.

-52-

— page 116 —
U.S.S. SEA RAIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL
(U) COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES (cont'd)
After reload -

Radar Countermeasures
Date | Lat. | Freq. | P.R.F. | Pulse | Use
Time | Long. | | | Width |

2015(H) | 17-17 N. | 150 | 500 | 10 | Sweeping
3/22/45 | 109-00 E. | | | | Search.

0300(H) | 17-58 N. | 193 | 900 | 12 | Land based
3/23/45 | 109-31 E. | | | | Air Search.

0133(H) | 17-38 N. | 158 | 300 | 8 | Ship Borne
3/30/45 | 109-15 E. | | | | Search.

0200(H) | 17-38 N. | 138 | 1000 | 10 | Ship Borne
3/30/45 | 109-13 E. | | | | Search.

0130(I) | 16-54 N. | 100 | 250 | 25 | Air
4/3/45 | 108-45 E. | | | | Search.

2100(I) | 17-52 N. | 152 | 300 | 8 | Air Borne
4/5/45 | 110-08 E. | | | | Search.

The 150 Mc, 152 Mc, and 193 Mc, APR contacts were picked
up repeatedly in the area.
One case of 10 centimeter interference other than SJ was en-
countered. This was coincident with a night contact on a friendly
plane. Definite lobe switching was shown on this "A" scope inter-
ference pattern.
During the patrol a direction antenna for the APR was construct-
ed. When tested on the Flounder's SD it left much to be desired, and
will have to be improved before it can be relied upon. An attempt to
determine its beam pattern will be made during refit.

Communication Countermeasures
None

Sonar Countermeasures
No information.

-53-

— page 117 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

(V) REMARKS
1. 16 Mk 18 torpedoes were carried forward and 6 Mk 14 torpedoes
were carried aft in the first half of the patrol and the reverse on
the second half of the patrol. Torpedoes received from the Euryale
and Anthedon were in excellent condition. "Well Done" to their
torpedo personnel.

2. We carried two 16mm movie films. Efforts were made to obtain
more but to no avail. The movies that are available are not evenly
distributed. Some boats have as many as ten while others have been
unable to obtain any. It is believed that more effort should be
expended in obtaining sufficient movies to supply all boats with at
least ten prior to departure on patrol. Movies are second to sink-
ing ships in morale value.

3. Forty-two bags of mail were delivered to boats in the Indo-China
Area, thirty-two of them to the Pampanito. The bags were so heavy,
it was necessary to divide them in half making about eighty bags in
all. Transfer was made by both boats running down sea at 50 turns
about 100 feet apart with the Sea Robin maneuvering to maintain
proper distance. A line was passed which was secured to the top of
the shears of the boat receiving the mail and run through a block
fastened to the top of our shears and tended on the bridge of the
Sea Robin to take care of the rolling of the boats and the varying
distance between them. This line acted as a trolley for a large
canvas carrier. This carrier was supported by a large shackle which
slid along the trolley line as the carrier was pulled back and forth
by the use of heaving lines secured to it. The mail bags were put
in the carrier. The sixty four bags of mail were successfully trans-
ferred to the Pampanito in a state 3.5 sea. Our maximum rate of
transfer was 22 m.b.p.h.*

4. Lieut. Fred Melzar and his gunnery gang and Lt.(jg) Robert Shaver
and his radio technicians did a particularly good job of keeping the
armament and radar equipment in A-1 shape. The C.O. is particularly
gratified by the excellent shooting displayed by the gun crews dur-
ing the gun battles on 8 April. Lieut. Bill Percy and his engineers
kept the engineering plant ticking like a clock although a great
deal of the patrol was conducted at four engine speed. The fire
control party functioned beautifully at all times under the leader-
ship of Lieut.Comdr. Phil Eckert and the plotting party under Lieut.
Vernon Page turned out excellent results. All that was necessary
for the C.O. to say was "shoot" when the control party said "when".
Lieut.Comdr. Eckert's navigation was outstanding under very adverse
conditions. The Communication department functioned without a
hitch under Lt.(jg) John Bruns.

* mail bags per hour.

-54-

— page 118 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL

(V) REMARKS (cont'd)
5. The "Prisonship" Sea Robin took a total of sixteen prisoners
from three different sources during this patrol. Six Japanese,
three Koreans and seven Indo-Chinese were captured. They were given
a regular ration and one cigarette after noon meal. They were
turned to during the day time. One prisoner was badly burned on
his arms and legs and several others suffered from minor burns.

6. As far as the Sea Robin is concerned the ST radar has paid for
itself 100%.

7. This completes the second long patrol for the Sea Robin. The
first was 64 days and this one 66 days. The mileage for the first
patrol was 14,947 and for the second was 18,198 miles.

8. On April 13, while charging electric torpedo number 57441
(Mk 18-2), smoke was seen coming out of the battery compartment.
The charge at this time had been going on for one half hour and
the open circuit voltage had risen from 147 to 152. The charge
was secured and the torpedo inspected. Inspection showed cell
# 69 had had a slight explosion, the vent cap raised about an
eighth of an inch, and the entire top of the battery and surround-
ing parts of the torpedo blackened with soot. Cell # 69 was the
only cell affected, this cell being dead.
No reason can be given for this explosion. All procedures
issued by Comsubpac were followed.

9. The C.O. agrees with the C.O. of the Snook, that the type of
winter clothing with sponge rubber insert issued to submarines
during 1940-42 was the best winter clothing
issued to submarines this war. Ten suits of this type of clothing
were used in the Finback for two years of war duty in all types
of weather and proved very satisfactory.

10. One of the major defects in the design of our present submarines
is the system of heads and sanitary tanks. The alternate vacuum
and suction in the head space, caused by suction from the
engine when the engine room door is opened for access of personnel,
induces a flow of air in and out of the sanitary tank. This
foul air causes an unbearable stench in the vicinity of the head
space which overpowers any disinfectant or deodorant found by this
ship to date.

11. It is recommended strongly that steps be taken to increase the
complement of fleet submarines making war patrols. All boats are
carrying 75 to 79 men to man the necessary watch stations. The
additional equipment installed during the last year in these boats
and additional radio watch standing required by present operations
make it necessary that this personnel be carried. The morale of
the submarine force is being lowered by boats being required to
carry this personnel to complete their missions properly and then

-55-

— page 119 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF S[UNCLEAR: E]COND WAR PATROL

(V) REMARKS (cont'd)
being unable to supply the necessary rates because they are 10%
over complement. Rates that should be included in this increase
are gunner's mates, radiomen, and electricians. This ship has
one five inch, two 40MM, four .50 cal. MG's, six carbines, two
tommy guns, twelve pistols, two shot guns, one .22 cal. rifle,
one .22 pistol, one line throwing gun, and recognition equipment.
All of this armament and its attendant ammunition calls for one
gunner's mate at the present time. It is believed that there
should be three rated men to keep up this gear and to keep it
firing during a gun battle.
Below is watch bill of Sea Robin:

Special                               Two Stewards Mates
Two Cooks                             Two Mess cooks
One Baker                             One Mess cook (Laundry)
One Quartermaster (Nav).              9
Total

                  1st Sect.     2nd Sect.     3rd Sect.

CPO-Hydraulic     1             1             1
Blow Man.         1             1             1
Aux. Elec.        1             1             1
*Sound            1             1             1
*APR & SD         1             1             1
*SJ               1             1             1
**Helm, L.O. &
High Periscope    6             6             6
QM                1             1             1
TM                2             2             2
Throttles         2             2             2
Oilers            2             2             2
Controllers       2             2             2
Radiomen          2             2             2
Totals            23            23            23

Grand total 78 men.

*Sound, APR & SD, and SJ watch standers are rotated.

**Lookouts, helmsman, and high periscope watch standers are
rotated.

-56-

— page 120 —
11/wft

SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California
3 May 1945.

FC5-4/A16-3
Serial: C344
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
CONFIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
USS SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Re-
port of Second War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC
FLEET, Administration.
(2) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of Second War
Patrol.

1. The second war patrol of the U.S.S. SEA ROBIN was
conducted in the Java Sea and South China Sea during the period
24 February to 29 April 1945. The patrol was of sixty-six days'
duration, and was interrupted March 15 to 19 for torpedo reload
at Subic Bay. The entire patrol was made under the operational
control of Task Force 71.

Torpedo Attack No. 1:

One week after leaving port the SEA ROBIN con-
tacted one AK with escort standing out of SURABAYA mine
field. Shortly after dark, at 2016, March 3, a night radar
surface attack was made, in which four MK 18-2 torpedoes
were fired from the bow tubes, range 2,000 yards, 74° port
track, small gyros, depth set 6 feet, speed used 6.6 knots.
SEA ROBIN turned right to bring stern tubes to bear; during
turn one hit from first salvo was obtained. At 2021 three
MK 14-3A torpedoes were fired from stern tubes, range 1,700
yards, 126° port track, small gyros, depth set 6 feet, speed
used 4 knots. The target exploded and was seen to sink
three minutes after being hit, the pip disappearing from
radar screen. The stern salvo never had time to reach
target. The escort hastily left the area.

Torpedo Attack No. 2:

At 0128, March 5, a six-ship convoy, consisting
of one large AP/AK, two AKs, and three escorts, was attacked
east of BAWEAN ISLAND. The large AP/AK was singled out for
a submerged attack, using the ST Radar. Three Mk 18s were
fired, range 980 yards, 30° starboard track, gyro angle 54°,
depth set at 4 feet, speed used, 8.5 knots. All three tor-
pedoes hit, the target bursting into flame and sinking almost
immediately.

1

— page 121 —
11/wft

SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

3 May 1945.

FC5-4/A16-3
Serial: 0344
[STAMP: RECLASSIFIED]
C O N F I D E N T I A L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA ROEIN (SS407) - Report of Second
War Patrol.

— page 122 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

11/wft

3 May 1945.

FC5-4/A16-3

Serial: 0344
[HANDWRITTEN: DECLASSIFIED]
Subject: U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of Second War
Patrol.

— page 123 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

3 May 1945.

FC5-4/A16-3

Serial: 0344
C O N D E C L A S S I F I E D
Subject: U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of Second War
Patrol.

— page 124 —
[HANDWRITTEN: F42-54]
5 03444 Ga

FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 01076 Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
CONF [STAMP: DECLASSIFIED] 7 May 1945.

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

COMSUBSPAC PATROL NO. 746
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN - SECOND WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of Second War Patrol
(24 February to 23 April 1945).

1. The second war patrol of the SEA ROBIN, under the command of
Commander P. C. Stimson, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the Java Sea and South China
Sea areas. In addition to offensive patrol, lifeguard services were rendered.

2. This brilliant and most aggressive patrol was active and fruitful.
Of the contacts made, three were attacked. Five brilliant torpedo attacks resulted
in the sinking of one large transport and three freighters. The attacks on the
convoy demonstrated the value of the SJ Periscope when forced to accept unfavorable
gyro angles. A seatruck and a large trawler were destroyed by gun
fire. During lifeguard services the SEA ROBIN had the privilege of rescuing one
army fighter pilot, who was forced to bail out from his damaged plane. During this
patrol sixteen prisoners were captured. A reload was made in Subic Bay. The
excellent seamanship and procedure demonstrated in transferring a large quantity of
mail at sea is noted.

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

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
commanding officer, officers, and crew of the SEA ROBIN for this most aggressive,
determined, and interesting patrol, during which the following damage was inflicted
upon the enemy:

S U N K

1 - AK (SEITAI MARU) (EC) | - | 3,405 tons (Attack No. 1-A)
1 - AP/AK (SAKURA MARU) (SU) | - | 7,167 tons (Attack No. 2)
1 - Small AK (UN) | - | 2,500 tons (Attack No. 3-A)
1 - Small AK (UN) | - | 2,000 tons (Attack No. 3-C)
1 - Seatruck (EC) | - | 150 tons (Gun Attack No. 1)
1 - Trawler (EC) | - | 700 tons (Gun Attack No. 2)

TOTAL SUNK | - | 15,922 tons*

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

- 1 -

— page 125 —
4460
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(1B)
Serial 01076
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
SEA ROBIN Report of
Second War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 746
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN - SECOND WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of Second War Patrol
         (24 February to 29 April 1945).

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

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7)
CNO (5)
Cincpac (6)
JICPOA (1)
AdICPOA (1)
Comservpac (1)
Cinclant (1)
Comsubslant (8)
S/M School, NL (2)
CO, S/M Base, PH (1)
Comsopac (2)
Comsowespac (1)
ComsubsoWespac (2)
CTG 71.5 (2)
Comnorpac (1)
Comsubspac (3)
ComsubspacAdCond (40)
SUAD, MI (2)
ComsubspacSubordCom (3)
All Squadron and Div.
  Commanders, Pacific (2)
Substrainpac (2)
All Submarines, Pacific (1)
[SIGNATURE: E. L. Hynes]
E. L. HYNES, 2nd
Flag Secretary.

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
7 May 1945.
Ga

NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.

MERRILL COMSTOCK.

— page 126 —
SS407/416-3
Serial ( 06 )

U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

9 August 1945.

C-O[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]-T-I-A-L
DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: C1093H] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 8/12/77]

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407).
To : Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via : (Official Channels).

Subject: U.S.S. Sea Robin (SS407), Report of War
Patrol Number Three.

Enclosures: (A) Subject report.
(B) Track charts.
(C) Secret report to ComSubPac only.
(D) Traces of TDM contacts.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the third war patrol
of this vessel was conducted in the Honshu Shoto area and the
Yellow Sea during the period 1 June 1945 to 9 August 1945,
is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: D. C. STINSON]

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 140261]

— page 127 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(A) PROLOGUE

     Arrived Pearl Harbor on 29 April, 1945 after 66 day patrol
in Southwest Pacific. Commenced refit under Sub Base, Pearl
Harbor. Assigned to Submarine Division 46 for administrative
purposes.

     The following major items were accomplished during refit:

          (1) Installation of TDM.
          (2) Installation of APR-5.
          (3) Installation of additional radio receiver.
          (4) Installation of additional 5 inch 25 cal. gun and
              additional pressure proof topside ammunition stowages.

     The refit required 19 days incident to heavy work load on
the sub base.

     Underwent 6 day training period with Comdr. Loughlin as
training officer.

     Ready for sea date 1 June 1945.

(B) NARRATIVE

     The following named officers and CPO's made the Third War
Patrol:

          Name (officers)                               No of Patrols (including
                                                                    SEA ROBIN
                                                                      Third)
          Commander P. C. STINSON, USN.                         10
          Lt. Comdr. P. F. ECKERT, USN.                         10
          Lieut. V. C. PACE, (DE), USNR.                         3
          Lieut. B. P. PERCY, USN.                               3
          Lieut. R. W. GREENE, (D), USNR.                        2
          Lieut. R. C. SHAVER, (E)L(T), USNR.                    3
          Lt.(jg) J. H. FRUIT, Jr., (E)L, USNR.                  3
          Lt.(jg) J. A. UNUMB, (D)L, USNR.                       2
          Ensign R. E. BELLEW, (DE)L, USNR.                      2
          Ensign W. E. HEALY, (DE)L, USNR.                       2
          Ensign F. F. ZIEGLER, Jr., (D)L, USNR.                 1

          Name (CPO's)                                  No of Patrols (including
                                                                    SEA ROBIN
                                                                      Third)
          FUNDER, W.D., 234 16 75, CTM, USN.                      9
          EVANS, T.C., 291 56 67, CCM, USN.                       9
          HAGOPAN, J.(m), 212 41 23, CMOMM, USN.                 11
          KRIEG, K.F., 238 58 86, CMOMM, USN.                     4
          LIDMAN, A.L., 371 95 15, CMOMM, USN.                    5
          SHORT, J.L., 201 64 36, CRM, USN.                       8
          MC MURTREY, E.A., 368 44 83, CPhM, USN.                 9

                                   -1-

— page 128 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(B) NARRATIVE (cont'd)

The following named officer was detached from SEA ROBIN to
relief crew:

Lieut. F. P. NELZAR, (DEM), USNR.

The following named officers reported on board for duty:

Lieut. R. W. GREENE, (D), USNR.
Ensign H. F. ZIEGLER, Jr., (D)L, USNR.

1 June
1330 Underway from PEARL enroute GUAM in company with THREADFIN in
accordance with COMSUBSPACADCOMD Opord 107-A-45. Escort is
PC 1078.
1800 Made trim dive.
1830 Surfaced.
1930 THREADFIN dismissed escort. Many friendly planes were sighted
and contacted on SD radar during afternoon and night.
2000 Set clocks back to plus ten time zone.

2 June
0442 Sight and SJ radar contact on ship dead ahead at 7000 yds.
Cannot be THREADFIN because we also have her on radar. Swung
away at four engine speed. Target tracks on course 095° at
13 knots.
0500 Exchanged calls with YMS 432.
Made training dives every three hours during the day.

3 June - 13 June

Underway for GUAM conducting general training for all hands.
Conducted specialized training as follows:

(1) TIC training for every officer.
(2) Intensified diving instruction for every section.
(3) Navigational training for all junior officers.
(4) Tracking drills for G.Q., first and second tracking
parties.
(5) Highly intensified training of radar operators. Trained
all S.J. to handle SJ and ST radars.
(6) TDM training. (See "Remarks").
(7) Submerged approaches.

Items 1, 4, 5, 6, & 7 were possible because we were in company
with THREADFIN to GUAM. The importance (as far as underway
training is concerned) of 2 or more boats travelling from base
to base in company cannot be over emphasized.

-2-

— page 129 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
3 June - 13 June (cont'd)

1200 POSITS:
Date             Lat.             Long.
2 June           21-04 N.         162-46 W.
3 June           21-02 N.         168-30 W.
4 June           20-57 N.         173-53 W.
5 June           21-06 N.         179-41 W.
6 June           Crossed Int. date Line.
7 June           21-01 N.         174-57 E.
8 June           21-03 N.         169-49 E.
9 June           20-51 N.         162-57 E.
10 June          19-16 N.         157-36 E.
11 June          18-03 N.         151-53 E.
12 June          16-46 N.         146-57 E.
13 June          14-00 N.         144-15 E.

11 June
1705K Sighted BLACKFISH on opposite and parallel course. Exchanged
recognition signals.
Numerous SD and IFF contacts throughout the day.

12 June
2320K Exchanged recognition signals with CAERILLA.
Numerous SD & IFF contacts throughout the day.

13 June
1115K Sighted escort. THREADFIN, SEA ROBIN, and SPIKEFISH proceeded
to GUAM under escort.
1507K Moored in nest alongside FOLLAND. Commenced voyage repairs.

13-16 June
Given a three day voyage repair period incident to replacement
of leaky water jacket on # 4 M.E. and repair of leaky stills.
Sent crew by sections to Camp Dealey. Accomplished many
small repair items and fumigated ship.

16 June
1500K Underway, under escort with THREADFIN.

17 June
0524K Trim dive.
0603K Surfaced.
1100K Sighted JACKFISH on opposite course.

1200K POSIT: Lat. 17-16 N. Long. 144-01 E.

Numerous SD & IFF contacts.

-3-

— page 130 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

18 June
0528K Trim dive.
0552K Surfaced.
1200K POSIT: Lat. 20-30 N. Long. 140-16 E.
1300K Held Tracking Drill.
1528K Trim dive.
1556K Surfaced.
1940K THREADFIN sank floating mine.
APR Contacts throughout the night on 210 m.c., and 205 m.c.

19 June
0548K Trim dive.
0559K Surfaced.
1200K POSIT: Lat. 25-16 N. Long. 139-36 E.
1300K Changed time zone description to minus 9, ITEM time. All
times ITEM unless otherwise stated.
1300 Held tracking drill and submerged practice approach.
Numerous SD & IFF contacts throughout the day.
2001 Sighted green rocket astern. Estimated POSIT: Lat. 26-50 N.
Long. 139-36 E.
2015 Informed BIRD DOG 5 and TWO JIMA we sighted flare.
2120 Reversed course to investigate green flare sighted at 2001;
at request of TWO JIMA. No definite info on anyone down.
Left THREADFIN.
Sent serial one to COMSUBPAC informing him of our search and
that we would be running 75 miles behind.
2330 Search results negative. Reversed course for area.

20 June
1200 POSIT: Lat. 29-10 N. Long. 139-47 E.
2120 Radar fix on TORI SHIMA. It bears 095 T at 25 miles.
Numerous SD & IFF contacts.

21 June
0431 Trim dive.
0838 Surfaced.
1005 Trim dive.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-36 N. Long. 138-44 E.
1235 Surfaced.
1527 Trim dive.
1854 Surfaced.
2000 Received definite orders for life guarding tomorrow.
2230 Radar fix on TORI SHIMA, 102 T at 25 miles. Set course for
L.G. station. Numerous SD & IFF contacts.

22 June
0700 At L.G. station. Several SD & IFF contacts. Had CAP during
the day. No business for us.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-01 N. Long. 138-02 E.
1830 Sank floating mine by 30 cal. fire. Did not explode. M/C # 1.

-4-

— page 131 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

23 June
0700 At L.G. station. Had CAP during strike, but no business.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-01 N. Long. 140-25 E.
1300 Changed time zone description from -9 to -10. All times are
KING unless otherwise stated.
1305 # 1 M.E. out of commission for remainder of patrol incident to
blower impeller failure - the same casualty as last patrol.
This now makes 2 patrols for the SEA ROBIN on 3 engines.

24 June
0700 At L.G. station.
0900 Fighter strike cancelled. Exchanged calls and info with
TIGRONF. Decided to look over TORI SHIMA - SEA ROBIN on the
north, TIGRONF on the south.
0931 Sighted a BETTY at six miles. She flew on not bothering us.
1018 Dived. Closed TORI SHIMA to 1000 yds. and made excellent
reconnaissance. Took several pictures.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-28 N. Long. 140-17 E.
1615 TIGRONF surfaced to east of TORI SHIMA.
1632 Surfaced and proceeded back to general vicinity of L.G. station.
1920 Sighted belly tank. Sank it by gunfire.
2104 Dived on an SD contact that closed to .4 miles, showing no IFF.
Unable to raise by VFF.
2140 Surfaced.
2206 Dived as under same circumstances as at 2104.
2233 Surfaced.

25 June
0700 At L.G. station.
No planes all morning.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 31-00 N. Long. 140-30 E.
1300 Fighter strike cancelled.
1300 Exchanged info with TIGRONF over 4475 Kc. Informed that plane
sighted anchored DD off HACHIJO. Sent our POSIT to TIGRONF and
then informed by her that she would investigate DD.
1702 TDI contact. Definite trace. Dived but we could hear no screws.
1914 Surfaced and moved to westward for tomorrow's strike.
1948 APR contact 75 m.c., 100 PRF. Probably SHIMA ISLAND.

26 June
0700 On-life guard station. 31-30 N. 138-35 E.
1000 CAP informed us he was returning to base with engine trouble.
Heavy overcast, but we had several SD & IFF contacts.
1130 With several IFF contacts from 3 to 12 miles, received full
load of bombs thru heavy overcast. Missed by 1000 yds. Either
it was poor bombing or careless jettisoning. Could not raise
B-29's, now or earlier in the morning.
1135 Finally raised PLUTO 29. Informed him we weren't particularly
happy about having eight bombs drop thru the overcast missing
us by about 1000 yards. Also told him to tell all his friends
to take it easy on the art of jettisoning. He said he'd inform
IWO JIMA.

-5-

— page 132 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

26 June (cont'd)
1200 POSIT: Lat. 31-30 N. Long. 138-37 E.
No business for us this afternoon but the TIGRONE, PINTADO,
TREDING, and SPRINGER appear to have been plenty busy.
Several A/R contacts throughout the afternoon at 82 m.c.,
500 PRF, and 152 mc. 500 PRF. Either Jan subs or SMITH
ISLAND, BAYONNAISE ROCKS, or AOGA ISLAND.
1955 Definite TIN contact bearing 135 relative. Changed course to
left and dived. Could see how trace fell astern.
2200 Sent serial # 2 to CSP info L.G. league about TIN contacts
and bombing.
2053 Surfaced.

27 June
As our L.G. station today is at 32-30 N, 140-20 E, decided
to look over AOGA SHIMA.
0255 Dived 12 miles off of AOGA SHIMA, Bearing 103 T. Closed the
Island submerged.
0600 Worked our way around island from northwest corner to south
to northeast corner. Sighted a few huts, several cows, and
a couple row boats. The Japs can have the place.
0849 In a moderate fog and heavy overcast surfaced 8000 yds. from
Island, bearing 060 T.
0850 Sighted DD or PF bearing 019 T, distant about 18000 yds,
angle on the bow 90 port. Went to tracking station and
came to course 320 T. at 17 knots. S/C # 1.
0900 Angle on bow is 0 or 180.
0901 Momentary SJ range at 21,000 yds.
0915 DD or PF ran away at about 21 knots.
0925 Got off contact report to IWO JIMA. We believe this fallow
operates out of HACHIJO JIMA. Intend to go up there soon to
investigate.
1000 Broke off chase and proceeded to L.G. station.
1040 Established VFF communication with 23V391. Told him about
our contact. He said he would investigate.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 32-20 N. Long. 140-25 E.
1300 Exchanged calls and info with PINTADO.
1408 Sank floating mine by 30 caliber fire. Mine blew up on
seventh hit with a tremendous explosion. M/C # 3.
1500 Fighter strike cancelled. Headed to HACHIJO to make
reconnaissance.
1900 When 20 miles to N.E. of HACHIJO received orders for L.G.
station. Headed for new station, Lat. 30-00 N. Long. 138-55 E.

28 June
0115 Dived for SD contact 3 miles. No IFF or VFF communications.
0125 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-18 N. Long. 139-00 E.
1300 Fighter strike cancelled. Headed westward.
2130 Sighted green flare bearing 115 T, at Lat. 30-05 N, Long.
137-10 E. Reversed course to investigate. Search negative.
2300 Made rendezvous with PILOTFISH. Exchanged info, secret mail
and movies.

-6-

— page 133 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

28 June (cont'd)
2315 Headed for tomorrow's L.G. station.

29 June
C200 First of Hundreds of SD & IFF contacts on B-29's heading for
EMPIRE.
1133 TDM contact 300 relative. Headed toward bearing and dived.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 29-58 N. Long. 139-02 E.
1252 Surfaced.
Fighter strike apparently cancelled.

30 June
0304 Trim dive.
0748 Sighted large surface ship type balsa life raft - empty.
0751 Surfaced and investigated raft. No visible marking. Netting
in an exceptionally frayed condition.
1040 Notified that fighter strike is cancelled.
1042 Dived to save fuel.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 31-00 N. Long. 138-27 E.
1914 Surfaced.

1 July
On lifeguard station, patrolling at 170 rpm.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-53 N. Long. 138-27 E.
1330 Air cover arrived. Informed him to cover us closely as we were
sending men topside to repair loose deck plating around star-
board muffler. See Major Defects concerning deck plating.
1600 Repairs completed.
1720 DUMBO 40 (our CAP) informed us that he believed that DOCTOR 6
was attempting to call us on 4475 Kc. After several attempts,
raised DOCTOR 6, who stated he had a Yellow Jacket in the water.
(A Mustang pilot). We requested shackled position.
1725 Received POSIT: Lat. 32-30 N. Long. 138-00 E. Set course for
scene, 93 miles away, at 2 engine flank speed.
1730 Relayed thru BIRD DOG 5 to TWO JIM urgent request for relief
for DOCTOR 6. DOCTOR 6 would be unable to remain on station
after then 2000. Our ETA was 2250. DOCTOR 6 stated he had
dropped life raft. Ordered DOCTOR 6 to drop all flashlights
that he had available and a note of our ETA to pilot.
Received message from TWO JIM that relief plane would arrive
at scene at 2005. DOCTOR 6 stated that DUMBO 42 was at scene
and that he (42) would be able to stay for 30 minutes. Ordered
DOCTOR 6 to have DUMBO 42 drop all his flares and flashlights
and a Gibson Girl to pilot. DOCTOR 6 stated that this was being
done and that a boat had been dropped but boat parachute had
failed to open.
2015 Relief plane, DUMBO 2, relieved DOCTOR 6. DUMBO 2 dropped
lifeboat to pilot.
2100 Picked up emergency IFF from DUMBO 2. As we approached the
scene DUMBO 2 dropped numerous flares to coach us to pilot.
2230 Rescued Second Lieutenant William Edward King, pilot of TWO
JIM: FIGHTER GROUP. Set course for tomorrow's L.G. station.

-7-

— page 134 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

2 July
0000 Enroute new L.G. station.
0130 Notified COMSUBPAC of rescue, fuel and fish.
0500 Exchanged recognition signals with DEVILFISH. She was heading
     for GUAM so decided to send our pilot with her.
0620 Transferred pilot to DEVILFISH by the heaving line, life jacket
     method. Also swapped three movies.
0815 Sighted floating mine. Did not sink it as we were late proceed-
     ing to our L.G. station. M/C # 5.
0930 Obtained fix from BAYONNAISE ROCKS and SMITH ISLAND.
1111 SD contact 4 miles, no IFF, not sighted, dived.
1135 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-30 N. Long. 140-12 E.
1300 On L.G. station.
1500 Fighter strike cancelled. Closed SMITH ISLAND to 20,000 yards
     and dived to make submerged reconnaissance.
1830 Reconnaissance completed. Could not locate radar stations.
     The Japs can also have this island forever.
2012 Surfaced. Set course to northwest to make radar sweep between
     BAYONNAISE ROCKS and AOGA ISLAND and then back to L.G. station.
2320 APR contact 150 m.c., SD contact 4 miles. Dived.

3 July
0003 Surfaced.
0134 APR contact 150 m.c., SD contact 4 miles, closing. Dived.
0203 Surfaced.
0215 On L.G. station.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 31-28 N. Long. 140-27 E.
1500 We are missing zone notice "A-16".
1600 Fighter strike cancelled. Decided to head up to HACHIJO JIMA
     to make radar sweep and perhaps contact SEA POACHER. She may
     have "A-16", but so far we have missed no serial messages.

4 July
0045 Informed by COMSUBPAC "A-16" was of no immediate concern to
     subs in area and to draw upon return to port.
0100 Set course for L.G. station.
0925 Sank floating mine by .50 cal. fire. M/C # 6.
1125 CAP arrived. Maneuvering on L.G. station.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 31-39 N. Long. 140-21 E.
1206 Stopped to convert # 5 FBT to MBT and to grease the topside.
1258 Completed topside work. Sighted floating mine. M/C # 7.
     Test fired both five inch guns with one shell each. Missed
     mine. Fired one belt of 50 cal. at it but could not sink it.
     Did not consider using any more ammunition advisable.
1600 CAP departed. No planes known to be down in our vicinity. Set
     course for area 12 in accordance with orders from COMSUBPAC.
1652 Mine. M/C # 8.
1842 Mine. M/C # 9.

-8-

— page 135 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

5 July
0000 Enroute area 12 to join STREET'S SWEEPERS.
0706 Sighted PILOTFISH. Closed her to exchange info.
0730 Left PILOTFISH.
1044 Trim dive.
1113 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-44 N. Long. 135-52 E.
1625 M/C # 10.
1806 M/C # 11.

6 July
0900 Sighted YAKU SHIMA, bearing 280 T, 60 miles. APR contacts at 155,
    78, 98, 138, and 165 m.c. for remainder of day.
1000 Changed zone description to minus 9. All times hereafter are
    ITEM time unless otherwise stated.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 30-06 N. Long. 130-53 E.
1307 Sighted two CORONADOS. They closed us to exchange info. In-
    formed by them that this area is very negative.
1725 Dived to look over KOCHINOTRAFU ISLAND.
1900 Closed KOCHINOTRAFU WAN to 3800 yards. Sighted two small craft
    at head of bay. One had a port list indicating she may have
    been beached. Both were too small for torpedoes.
1912 Sighted small fishing craft next to beach.
2035 Surfaced. APR contacts at 105, 158, and 164 m.c.
2100 Set northerly course to make radar sweep to east of KURO SHIMA
    and thence to BONO MISAKI.

7 July
0110 We are 10 miles west of BONO MISAKI. No contacts. 158 m.c.
    radar at BONO MISAKI.
    Set course to pass between TAKA SHIMA and TSURIKAKE SAKI LIGHT.
0130 Strong APR radar on SHIMO KOSHIKI.
0244 Dived for SD contact, 4 miles. While diving realized that this
    contact was from TAKA SHIMA which was at 8400 yards.
0259 Surfaced.
0400 Set course to pass northeast of KAIJO GUNTO. Received message
    to patrol with THREADFIN and RONQUIL south of 35 N. in area
    12 with Comdr. FOOTE as group commander.
0830 Strong APR contacts at 77 and 98 m.c. from KAIJO GUNTO.
0900 Sent THREADFIN our ETA for S.W. of SAISHU TO.
1030 Intercepted message from plane about downed pilots at 33-15 N.
    129-00 E. Set course for that position at three engine flank
    speed. ETA 1530. Sent message to FAIRWING ONE requesting C.P.
    Had tremendous flail over authentication of the message.
    OKINAWA would not authenticate but kept telling us that our
    authenticator would not check. Finally received message stating
    that THREADFIN 4 and 8 and FIGHTERS TROPICAL and BISHOP were
    proceeding to scene.
1100 APR contacts at 77.5, 95, 97, 98, and 193 m.c.
1110 Mine. M/C # 12.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-33 N. Long. 128-18 E.

-9-

— page 136 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

7 July (cont'd)
1500 Made contact with rescue planes, PLAYMATE 4 and 8, 81 VICTOR,
     181 VICTOR, 187 VICTOR, TROPICAL 101, TROPICAL 106, plus
     several fighters.
1600 We are about 15 miles from initial position of downed aviators.
     One of the planes informed us that YELLOW JACKET was now 10
     miles further east. However, resultant search by all planes
     proved negative.
1611 Planes informed us of unsuccessful search. Downed pilots are
     probably prisoners. Their plane was shot down within three
     miles off the beach. Rescue planes strafed and bombed vicinity
     including KOSHIKI LIGHT HOUSE.
1616 Set course for SAISHU KAIKYO. Received permission from group
     commander to patrol this area.
1716 Sighted a TOKAI type anti-sub plane at seven miles. SD made
     contact at five miles.
1717 Dived as he headed toward us.
1907 Surfaced.
2200 Informed COMSUBPAC about our negative search for pilot.

8 July
0000 Entered SAISHU KAIKYO.
0450 Sighted small sailboat. Avoided.
0453 Dived for submerged patrol near REIZU TO.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-58 N. Long. 126-41 E.
1450 Sighted small three masted junk. Tracked him at 6 knots, course
     205 T.
1641 Decided to surface to look him over. He was small - had no
     weather deck. Could see at least 3 people in it. At
1651 when just about to surface, sighted a TOKAI plane at about 8
     miles, in direction of junk. Plane turned toward for zero AOB.
     Went to 80 feet and decided not to surface as we did not care
     to alert the area yet.

FIRST ATTACK
SUNK: ONE 500 TON PC OR MINING CRAFT
     ONE PRISONER
     LAT. 33-50 N. LONG. 126-42 E.

1958 Sighted large PC type ship, AOB 5 stbd, range 5000 yards.
     Tracking him at 9 knots, course 030 T. S/C # 2.
2029 Fired # 9 tube. (This attack is the subject of a special
     report. See Enclosure C, for COMSUBPAC only).
2034 Torpedo hit, followed closely by a second explosion, probably
     one of his depth charges. Surfaced.
2037 Target still afloat at a range of 4000 yards. Tracked at zero
     speed.
2040 Target sank. Reversed course to recover prisoners.
2140 Sighted much debris. Used searchlight and spotted several Japs
     in the water. After repeated efforts to coax them to come
     aboard, sent two men over the side and hauled one naked JAP
     aboard. Three others refused to come aboard. Set course to
     continue patrol.

-10-

— page 137 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

9 July
0451 Dived 7 miles southwest of CHACHI TO at eastern entrance to
     pass.
0805 Sighted large DE bearing 250 T range 6000 yards, AOB 90 stbd.
     Commenced closing at full speed. DE tracked at 9 knots on
     northerly courses to go thru the pass. S/C # 3.
0845 Abandoned chase with range of 6500 yards AOB 140 stbd. This
     really was a heart breaker as we had great plans for this DE.
     Fe tracked at 9 knots, steering various courses thru pass.
     JP could not pick him up at 5500 yards. Weak echo ranging
     was heard. Narrow pass prevented an end-around. Low visib-
     ility and bad sound conditions account for the low initial
     range.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-59 N. Long. 126-30 E.
2034 Surfaced.

SUNK: SECOND ATTACK
      ONE UNIDENT AK
      THREE PRISONERS
      LAT. 33-40 N. LONG. 126-39 E.

0255 SJ radar contact bearing 120 T range 8700 yards. Called away
     G.Q. tracking party and clocked an unseen target at 9 knots,
     course 207 T, not zigging. Made standard end-around. S/C # 4.
0355 Started in for surface attack stbd track. Picked up escort on
     target's stbd bow. Crossed ahead of target for port
     attack.
0405 At a range of 5000 yards headed in on a zero bearing.
0410 Range 2000 yards, AOB 50 port. Still cannot see him because
     of poor visibility incident to darkness and partial fog. Set
     torpedoes on zero depth for flat sea.
0413 Target loomed up thru the fog. Initially it appeared to be
     a small CV. Later determined it to be a loaded AK. With this
     visibility we can dump our load of coal right into his cellar.
     At
0415 with torpedo run of 875 yards, 80 port track, fired first of
     four bow tubes using Mk 18's. Watched all torpedoes make
     surface runs. Swung hard right to bring stern tubes
     to bear.
0416:30 Fired of four beautifully spaced hits, followed by tremendous
     gasoline explosion, which lighted up the area for miles around.
     Target disintegrated and sank, leaving a large pool of flame on
     the water.
0420 Departed scene to northwestward.
0500 Sighted junk two miles west of SFOSUI TO. Closed him to work
     him over with 40 mm's and bridge 50's.
0525 While still closing sighted TOKAI plane close aboard diving
     right at us out of low visibility. Passed overhead as C.O.
     was leaving bridge.
0526 DIVED.
0528 Received bomb--not too close.
0529 Received bomb--not too far.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-26 N. Long. 126-40 E.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

10 July (cont'd)
1337 Sighted several men in the water, clinging to debris....
survivors of our morning fracas....how did they over live
thru those explosions?
.Will return at dusk to capture one for intelligence. Unable
to understand how the Japanese can fail to make any attempt
to rescue these survivors of our attack which occurred only
7 miles off SAISHU, especially with an escort and several
junks present. It seems that the appearance of an American
submarine puts the fear of God into all Jap craft and is
sufficient excuse for all hands to clear the area.
1500 Changed zone description to minus 8. All times hereafter
will be ZO" time unless otherwise stated.
1915 Surfaced.
1917 SD contact 2½ miles. Dived.
2010 Surfaced.
2012 Heard survivors shout at us in the darkness. Sighted debris
with three men. Maneuvered and recovered three prisoners.
One had a head wound (half scalped). They are Army privates.
Prisoners state target was an AK bound for SAISHU TO loaded
with over 500 Army troops and gasoline. A good days haul!
There were five or six more survivors in the water but do not
believe they will last through the night.
2030 Spoke to PADM by SJ. When asked, informed her we did not fire
a torpedo at her. Tried to establish communication with her
by SCR 610 (walkie-talkie). She could hear us but her trans-
mitter wouldn't put out. Informed her that the local area is
slightly hot.
2115 Set course to patrol to south of SAISHU TO.
2300 Sent COMSUBPAC our sixth giving results of our attacks and
that we were joining THREADFIN in northern YELLOW SEA.

11 July
0411 Dived 10 miles south of SAISHU TO.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-08 N. Long. 126-32 E.
1919 Surfaced. Decided to go north via the KOREAN ARCHIPELAGO.
1920 Set course to round SAISHU TO to the eastward.

12 July
0406 Dived 10 miles S.W. of CHACHI TO.
0800 Making no headway submerged. Visibility about 1500 yards. At
0810 surfaced and commenced surface passage of KOREAN ARCHIPELAGO
in moderate fog. Navigated by PPI.
1011 Dived 5 miles S.E. of PYONOUN TO.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 34-07 N. Long. 125-58 E.
1330 Sighted radio station and probable radar station at MAKUTSO
GUNTO.
1645 Entered MAIKOTSU SUIDO.
1958 Surfaced.
2030 Tracked several junks in MAIKOTSU SUIDO while proceeding
north. Most of them were burning lights.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

13 July
0015 Departed MAIKOTSU SUIDO. Headed west to make surface patrol
along 124 E.
0718 LOOKOUT, OOD, and QM sighted periscope dead ahead. S/C # 5.
0718:04 Dived. Could not develop contact.
0800 Noticed air bubbles from MBT's. Ground in 600 # group.blow
valves. Also ground in leaky valves on trim manifold, and
repacked a noisy hydraulic accumulator.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 35-23 N. Long. 124-21 E.
1448 Surfaced.
1500 Mine. M/C # 13.
1530 Received contact reports of 4 DD's and 2 DE's, 90 miles to
the south of us. Their course 130 T. speed 20.
1915 Mine. M/C # 14.

14 July
0830 Exchanged calls with OKINAWA search plane 163V221. Plane
would not authenticate and asked for several repeats.
1120 Sighted wrecked junk. Probably TRUTA'S victim.
1140 Dived 5 miles west of CHOSEN KAN.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 38-07 N. Long. 124-34 E.
1410 Sighted motor driven sampan inshore of us.
1501 Sighted 3 masted sailing junk.
1906 Surfaced.

15 July
1008 SD radar reported strange outgoing pulse. Looked overhead
and sighted a plane banking in toward us at about 500 foot
altitude. Dived.
1009 No bombs.
1012 No bombs.
1015 Perhaps the plane was on our team. We did not identify him
as we dived.
Closed CHOSEN KAN for submerged patrolling.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 38-15 N. Long. 124-24 E.
1300 Sighted several fishing boats.
1700 Sighted BEE at 4 miles.
1926 Surfaced. Picked up SJ interference to the north of us.
2130 Rendezvoused with TREADFIN.
2200 Set course 190 T. to make surface patrol to the south.

16 July
Making surface patrol in moderate to heavy fog.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 35-50 N. Long. 123-34 E.
1333 Sighted mine. M/C # 15.
1336 Sighted mine. M/C # 16.
1426 Sighted mine. M/C # 17.
1453 Sighted mine. M/C # 18.
1830 Converted # 3 FBT to MBT.
2038 Trim dive.
2058 Surfaced.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

17 July
0200 Obtained radar fix from DAIKOKUZAN GUNTO. Throughout the day
     sighted 31 floating mines. (M/C # 19 - 49 inclusive), in area
     bounded by 34-20 and 34-30, 123-10 and 124-50.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 34-20 N. Long. 123-40 E.
1230 Sighted two junks bearing 270 T. Decided to investigate them.
1253 Sighted two CORONADOS at 15 miles. Tried to raise them by
     VEF, but was unsuccessful.
1330 Closed junk. Ordered them to send small boat over.
1345 3 men in boat alongside. Took one aboard as hostage and sent
     boarding party of First Lieut. and 2 gunner's mates over to
     junk.
1400 Boarding party reported that all hands were Chinese. Their
     cargo consisted of a bit of rice, 35 gallons of fish oil, salt,
     and fish.
1405 Did not consider junk a legitimate target. Boarding party
     returned with some dried shrimp, some firecrackers, rotten
     eggs, and a copy of the Chinese Reader's Digest. Sent hostage
     back to junk. In addition we sent over a few cans of food.
1420 Closed second junk. Ordered them to hoist flag. After much
     flail aboard junk, they hoisted a large rectangular red flag-
     probably a Chinese Communist flag.
1430 Continued surface patrol to the eastward.

18 July
0830 Plane reported survivors in sight at 31-17 N. 124-00 E.
     That POSIT is 220 miles from us, but we are the nearest boat.
     Set course for scene at full power.
0930 Plane reported that she had landed and picked up survivors.
1100 Sighted two PEM's. They said they had no business for us and
     that this area has been negative for some time. Planes warned
     us to be careful of floating mines (we had just sighted # 83).
     Throughout the day, sighted 34 mines. (M/C # 50 - 83).
1200 POSIT: Lat. 34-40 N. Long. 123-11 E.
1600 Sighted mine. M/C # 84.
2100 Informed THREADFIN that area was negative and that we desired
     to patrol SAISHU KAIKYO.
2130 Received permission from THREADFIN to patrol SAISHU KAIKYO.

19 July
0100 Entered MAIKOTSU SUIDO.
0426 Dived for submerged patrol.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 34-08 N. Long. 126-05 E.
1847 Sighted small inter island steamer bearing 060 T. at 9000 yds.
     AOB 70 port. Came to NAC at full speed. S/C # 6.
1855 Target tracks at 6.5 knots on course 300 T. Impossible to
     close submerged. Will wait until dark and make end-around and
     surface approach.
1930 Surfaced. Commenced end-around on clear moonlight night. We
     are at a disadvantage as we are between moon and target. Average
     depth of water is 15 fathoms and we must pass an island at
     3000 yards to get ahead.
2000 With island as background, came in for zero bearing, port track.
     Moon is quite bright.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

2012 With torpedo run of 2500 yards, 20 left gyro, 100 port track
     hits. Torpedoes Swung hard right for stern shot. No
     torpedoes were set on 3 ft. Plot and TDC both checked
     6.5 kts on 305 T. Fired # 9 tube. This attack is subject of
     a secret report to COMSUBPAC only. Could not make another
     end-around incident to shallow and mined waters. This was
     very disappointing as the only question on what the target
     was doing was whether he was making 6.4 or 6.5 knots. Torp-
     edoes must have run under him.
2030 Set course for SAISFU KAIKYO.
2134 Dived to avoid 3 junks in center of pass.
2233 Surfaced.
2250 Entered SAISFU KAIKYO.
2256 Radar contact 9000 yds, bearing 180 T. Tracked at 6.6 knots
     on 000 T. Too light for a surface approach. Target is an
     unescorted Sugar Charlie. S/C # 7.
2319 When range was 6000 yards, dived to commence submerged approach.
2326 Zig toward AOB 0, range 2800 yards.
2328 Will wait for a zig.
2335 At 1200 yards, no zig. Pulled off track for 120 stbd track.
2340 With range of 1800 yds, 110 stbd track, fired three stern tubes.
2341 Target zigged 40° to the right. Missed. Came hard left to
     fire bow tubes.
2350 Torpedo run over 3000 yards. Will surface and make another
     end-around.

20 July
0005 Surfaced. Picked up a convoy of 5 small luggers bearing 225 T
     at 4000 yards. S/C # 8. Radar could barely pick these
     vessels up at 4000 yds, but we got a good pip on the Sugar
     Charlie.
0020 Sugar Charlie enter mined pass to the north of CHACHI TO.
0030 Broke off chase.
0145 Sighted and tracked small motored sampan at 5 knots, 000 T.
     S/C # 9.
0406 Dived 6 miles north of SHOSUI TO.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-57 N. Long. 126-34 E.
1455 Sighted DE bearing 252 T range 6000 yds. AOB 80 stbd. S/C
     # 10. Closed target full speed.
1510 Tracks at 15 kts, course 010 T.
1523 ST range 3900 yards. Target must have heard us running at
     full speed. Target slowed and started echo ranging.
1529 Target is stopped and is alternately pinging and listening.
     Depth of water is 120 feet.
1530 Sound reported target underway. Raised scope and saw 5°
     starboard AOB. I guess this is it.
1531 Raised scope, 25° port AOB. He hasn't located us yet. I
     don't know who is stalking who.
1538 AOB 80 port, lying to listening. Range 2900 yds. We are
     closing range at highest speed we dare use which is 4 kts.
1548 Target is now lying to with 90 port AOB. Will fire as soon
     as we close the range a little more. Could fire now but as

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

20 July (cont'd)
soon as the first fish leaves the tube he is going to hear
it. Running time for our Mk 18's is 2 min. and 15 sec. and
the Mk 18's are not enjoying our fullest confidence right
now after last night's experience.
1549 Decided to fire six bow tubes set on four feet depth. Up
periscope for firing bearing. Sound reports target speeding
up. In the period of less than a minute that our scope was
down target has swung 95° giving us a 175 starboard AOB.
1551 AOB 100 starboard, speed about 12 knots. Torpedo run 3500 yds.
1606 AOB 170 stbd. Target is headed for passage north of CHICHI TO.
Broke off chase. Perhaps we should have fired when range was
2200 yards. However I am quite certain he could have avoided
because his listening conditions were at an optimum and he was
definitely suspicious. This was really heart breaking.
Perhaps the DE was on a special A/C sweep, meaning there will
be some traffic thru here tonite. We now call the passage
between SHOSUI TO AND SHUSHI GUNTO "THE SLOT". Will suggest
to the THREADFIN tonite that she come down here,
2004 Surfaced.
2010 Sent message to THREADFIN.
2047 Picked up two sea trucks by radar. Tracked on a course of
190 T at 6 kts. Will make a submerged attack on them as soon
as the battery is charged up a bit. (S/C # 11).
2202 Dived ahead on the track, heading up the true bearing.
2214 Fired # 7 tube.
During the next hour and a quarter the SEA ROBIN underwent the
most harassing experience that could ever happen to a submarine.
This embranglement is the subject of a special secret report to
COMSUBPAC only.
2325 Surfaced. Picked up a small spit kit on starboard quarter at
1200 yards. (S/C # 12).
2345 Set southerly course at full power to overtake the two small
enemy ships that just previously eluded us.

21 July
0040 Made contact on ships. Resumed tracking.
0048 Enemy ships now 5000 yards off SAISHU TO. It is too late to
dive ahead. Decided that they were not worth our remaining
Mk 18's, so broke off chase.
0050 Missed a floating mine by 3 feet. M/C # 85. Mine was barely
missed clear by the bow wave and was spotted alongside to
starboard by the JP sound gear.
0400 Sighted mine. M/C # 86.
0405 Dived for submerged patrol.
1113 Sighted a TOKAI plane 500 yards away with a 10 port angle on
the bow as the periscope was going up.
1113:10 Went deep to 130 feet.
1115 No bombs.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-59 N. Long. 126-28 E.
1208 Back to periscope depth. All clear.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

21 July
2002 Surfaced.
2006 SJ radar interference to the east.
2040 Sighted small ship to north of us. Tracked at 5 knots, course
     185 T. (S/C # 31).
2050 Exchanged recognition with THREADFIN.
2100 Established communications with THREADFIN by walkie-talkie.
     Exchanged POSITS - are 22 miles apart.
2103 Sighted 4 small ships (sea trucks or luggers) between us and
     the THREADFIN. She said she would take care of them, and for
     us to go after our single contact. (S/C # 14)
2135 Dived ahead of our contact, at 4000 yards.
2205 Fired # 7 tube. This attack is the subject of a special secret
     report to COMSUBPAC only.
2230 Heard gunfire on J.P.
2321 Surfaced. Sighted burning lugger on horizon - THREADFIN
     victims.
2320 Sighted two sea trucks heading south, speed 5 knots. Closed
     them and maneuvered to get them in the moon slick.
2330 Battle Stations Surface. Opened fire at a range of 5000 yds.

22 July
0020 First sea truck sinking, shifted targets.
0025 Second sea truck on fire. Ranges were between 5000 yds and
     2900 yds. Total ammunition expenditure, 44 five inch shells,
     22 per target.
0030 Sighted a third sea truck racing for SAISFU TO. Pursued at
     flank speed.
0115 Sea truck practically on the beach. Set course to scene of
     sinking to recover prisoners.
0120 At scene of sinking.
0124 Captured one prisoner. A few bursts from Tommy gun aided him
     to make up his mind to come aboard.
0126 Sighted a PIG adrift on a bit of wreckage. Although the PIG
     was only 3 feet from our port bow plane, he would pay no
     attention to us whatsoever, but was very placidly chewing on
     an apple or something similar.
0200 Closed sea truck that was still burning. Could hear ammunition
     explode at irregular intervals. Pulled clear of wreckage to
     continue patrol.
0350 Sighted mine. M/C # 87.
0405 Dived.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 34-00 N. Long. 126-29 E.
1910 Surfaced.
2250 Sighted small lugger heading south at 4 knots. (S/C # 15).
2251 Battle Surface.
2320 Sighted mine. M/C # 88.
2328 Target sinking. Ceased fire. Expended 14 rounds of 5 inch.
2359 Recovered 6 POW from life boat.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

23 July
0120 Sighted lugger. Battle Surface. (S/C # 16).
0155 Opened fire.
0212 Ceased fire. Expended 1500 rounds of 50 cal. and 6 rounds
of 5 inch.
0230 Recovered 7 POW. One was very badly wounded and two others
had minor wounds.
0414 Dived.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-56 N. Long. 126-43 E.
1929 Surfaced. Sighted two sea trucks bearing 270 T. 5 miles,
heading south. (S/C # 17). More run fodder - maneuvering
them into moon slick.
1943 SD contact 5 miles. Dived.
2017 POW died.
2103 Surfaced. Committed body of POW to the deep. Set out at
15 knots to overtake sea trucks.
2230 5 miles from SAISFU TO. Sea trucks got away. Made radar
sweep back to the northeast.

24 July
0416 Lookout sighted plane. Dived.
0533 Sighted PF, a 1000 ton AO and two sea trucks bearing 018 T.
Commenced approach on AO. Sound reports 2 sets of pinging,
but can only see one PF. (S/C # 18). Sea state # 4. 20°
gradient from 60 to 90 ft. That will help as we are in 150
feet of water, with the nearest deep water (240 feet) 10 mi.
away.
0540 PF is patrolling ahead at about 9 knots.
0606 AO tracks at 7.5 knots on course 172 T. Am only 400 yards off
track so will have to accept large gyro angles.
0611 With a range of 980 yards, 110 port track, 40 left gyro, fired
four bow torpedoes set on 4 feet at 10 seconds firing interval.
0618 All torpedoes missed, believed incident to torpedo depth
control since torpedoes were spread 30 feet between fish. With
such a setup and range 980 yds it was impossible to miss other-
wise. (state of sea # 4). Sound man reported two thuds which
may have been duds. Believe this is the third consecutive
target that torpedoes have under run. It is very discouraging.
0620 Oiler has 170 starboard AOB and PF has 0° AOB. Fired NAC and
started pulling clear at periscope depth. Depth of water 150 ft.
0625 PF is completely baffled by NAC which is raising quite a
commotion. Maybe we can get a setup on him for our last two
fish.
0635 PF has decided he wants no part of it and has headed for SAISFU
TO with AO.
0831 Sighted plane search area one mile away. He is flying low over
the water and probably using magnetic detector. Went to 120
feet on westerly heading.
0915 At periscope depth, all clear.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 33-52 N. Long. 126-24 E.
1922 Surfaced.
2120 SD contact, 4 miles; dived.
2215 Surfaced. Sent despatch to COMSUBPAC concerning the landing
of some of our POW's.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

25 July
0046 Dived for SD contact; 4 miles.
0130 Surfaced.
0446 Dived 4 miles north of SAISHU CITY.
1820 Sighted 4 planes, A/S (TOKAI) type about 4-6 miles away,
apparently searching for SEA ROBIN.
1935 Surfaced.

26 July
0000 Put 6 POW (KOREANS) in rubber boat equipped with food, water,
blankets, flares and flashlights 5 miles north of SAISHU CITY
in accordance with orders from COMSUBPAC.
0002 Set course for GUAM at 3 engine speed.
0651 Sighted two low flying unidentified planes, no IFF. Dived.
In retrospect, believe they were OKINAWA search planes.
0729 Surfaced.
0817 SD contact 6 miles; dived.
0910 Surfaced.
1142 Sighted mine. M/C # 89.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 32-01 N. Long. 128-44 E.
1204 Sighted CATFISH bearing 240 T, 6 miles. Closed her to ex-
change info.
1422 SD contact 6 miles; dived.
1446 Surfaced.
1646 Sighted unidentified plane, 6 miles; dived.
1720 Surfaced.
2200 Entered OOLNETT STRAIT.

27 July
0000 Entered joint zone "CORRIDOR". Had Several SD & IFF contacts.
Planes were heading for the EMPIRE.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 29-49 N. Long. 134-01 E.
1900 Picked up SG interference to the eastward - probably HALSEY'S
FLEET. Had several SD & IFF contacts throughout the night.

28 July
0035 Exchanged recognition and info with BILLFISH and TENCE.
0830 Entered "NECK".
1200 POSIT: Lat. 28-28 N. Long. 139-12 E.
Sighted several planes throughout the day.
1300 Trim dive.
1337 Surfaced.

29 July
0000 Changed zone description to -10. (KING).
0030K Exchanged recognition with SEAHORSE.
0849K Trim dive.
0928K Surfaced.
1103K Sighted south bound convoy 15 miles, bearing 250 T. Lat.
22-57 N. Long. 139-47 E. Changed course to avoid.
1200K POSIT: Lat. 22-45 N. Long. 139-47 E.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

30 July
1200 POSIT: Lat. 18-36 N. Long. 142-19 E.
2142 Exchanged recognition signals with U.S.S. PLAICE on SJ radar.

31 July
0049 SJ radar contact at 19,000 yards.
0052 Identified as large friendly carrier and escorts.
0105 Fired two recognition flares when range closed to 10,000 yds.
     and avoided.
0555 Rendezvoused with U.S.S. PLAICE.
0645 Escort LCI 1098 arrived.
0826 Avoided carrier task force.
0910 Sighted SAIPAN Island.
1217 Moored to U.S.S. PLAICE alongside U.S.S. ORION in Tanapag,
     Harbor, SAIPAN.
1400 Commenced fueling.

1 August
1345 Executive Officer, Lt.Comdr. P. F. ECKERT, received orders to
     proceed to U.S.S. GAR to take command.
1415 Lt.Comdr. ECKERT detached.
1420 Underway for MIDWAY in company with U.S.S. TIGRONE and under
     escort of LCI 1098.
1923 Transferred mail to escort and dismissed her. Parted company
     with U.S.S. TIGRONE.

2 August
0700 Emergency IFF on SD at 10 miles. Shifted to 4475 and tried
     to raise AGATE BASE. Unable to raise AGATE BASE but a PEM
     called us and said he was in trouble. His call was 99V240.
     His DF, loran, and radar were out of commission. He
     stated he had one hour of gas left which later lasted three
     hours. His hull was holed and he had no rubber rafts. In
     addition to the above he was lost. It soon became evident
     that he was not the emergency IFF we had had on our SD. We
     raised BLACK BALL 1, LOW DOWN, and SAMMY KAYE and gave them
     the dope. BLACK BALL 1 alerted DF net but they experienced a
     great deal of difficulty DFing plane. Plane was unable to
     get on the proper frequency because of radio equipment
     casualties. Plane finally DF'ed by having her call continuously
     on 4475 kcs. A course of 234° T was relayed through SEA ROBIN
     to 99V240. Plane was about 240 miles northeast of SAIPAN and
     about 100 miles southeast of us. SAIPAN sent planes out to
     meet her and when we signed off, 99V240 was under escort of
     two navy planes, was on SAIPAN radar screen, and had SAIPAN
     in sight. Sent message to SAIPAN giving information on
     emergency IFF we had seen earlier this morning.
1125 Exchanged calls with U.S.S. HOLLANDIA and her escorts.
1101 Exchanged calls with U.S.S. SHAD.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 18-01 N. Long. 147-27 E.
1348 Made trim dive.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

7 August (cont'd)
13 Jap vessels of various types sunk.
2 Army pilots rescued.
34 POW taken of which one died and six were set free.
97 floating mines sighted 7 sunk.
Bombarded Wake Island on two different occasions.
Following bases have been visited: TANAUAN, PEARL,
SAIPAN, GUAM, SUBIC, FREMANTLE, EXMOUTH GULF, and
MIDWAY.

0200 Received information on fox schedule that merchant ship
was abandoning ship 300 miles to southeast of us because of
fire. She is in Air Surface Zone. Sent message to ComSubPac
asking if he desired us to go to her aid.
0230 Intercepted message that a ship would arrive at the scene
in an hour. Sent message to NTN cancelling our message to
ComSubPac.
1200 POSIT: Lat. 20-55 N. Long. 169-30 E.
1650 Made trim dive.

8 August
1200 POSIT: Lat. 23-42 N. Long. 174-34 E.
1800 Set clocks ahead one hour to minus 12 time zone.

9 August
1130 Received dispatch that "State of War Exists between Russia
and Japan".
1200 POSIT: Lat. 26-17 N. Long. 178-56 E.
1244 Made trim dive.
2400 Set clocks back 24 hours incident to crossing 180° meridian.

9 August
0700 Made rendezvous with air escort and proceeded to Midway.

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U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(C) WEATHER
    The weather in the NANPO SHOTO area from 17 June to 4 July
was good. Seas were never greater than state 3. Experienced a
moderate fog off AOGA SHIMA.
    The weather in SAISHU KAIKYO and the YELLOW SEA was good.
Moderate to heavy fogs were occasionally experienced in both areas.
Heavy seas were not encountered.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION
    Nothing to report.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
    Several dimmed navigational lights were seen in the KOREAN
ARCHIPELAGO, on SAISHU TO, and in MAIKOTSU SUIDO as follows:

| FAKU TO   | JASHUSHI TO                 |
| KYOBUN TO | POKUSA YO (flashing white light) |
| CHACHI TO | SAISHU (two flashing white lights) |

    All navigation in SAISHU KAIKYO and KOREAN ARCHIPELAGO was
done by SJ radar and ST radar.
    CHOSEN KIP gave an excellent radar pip for fixing the ship's
position in that vicinity.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS

| No. | WHEN         | WHERE     | WHAT          | INIT R. | C & S     | HOW CONT.         | REMARKS                               |
|-----||||||||
| 1.  | 0850(K) 32-25 |           | DE or         | 13,000  | 000       | Sighted           | Sighted on sur-                       |
|     | 27 June 139-44 |           | PF            |         | 21 kts.   |                   | facing in fog-                        |
|     |              |           |               |         |           |                   | could not close.                      |
| 2.  | 2017(I) 33-50 |           | Large         | 6,000   | 030       | Peri.             | Sunk.                                 |
|     | 8 July 126-42 |           | PC or         |         | 9 kts.    |                   |                                       |
|     |              |           | AM (500 T)    |         |           |                   |                                       |
| 3.  | 0805(I) 33-58 |           | DE (UN-1)     |         | 355       | Peri.             | Unable to close                       |
|     | 9 July 126-31 |           |               | 6,000   | 9 kts.    |                   | track.                                |
| 4.  | 0415(I) 33-39 |           | AK(UN)        | 9,250   | 207       | Radar             | Sunk - see torp.                      |
|     | 10 July 126-40 |           | (4000 T)      |         | 9 kts.    |                   | attack # 2.                           |
| 5.  | 0718(I) 35-09 |           | SS            | 2,200   | --        | Sighted           | Sighted perisco;                      |
|     | 13 July 124-26 |           |               |         | --        | by CD,CM          | Dived to avoid.                       |
|     |              |           |               |         |           | L.O.              |                                       |
| 6.  | 1847(I) 34-07 |           | AK(UN)        | 9,000   | 305       | Peri.             | Made end around                       |
|     | 19 July 126-18 |           | (1000-1500 T).|         | 6.5 kts.  |                   | surface approach                      |
| 7.  | 2253(I) 34-00 |           | Super         | 8,900   | 345       | Radar             | Made night sub-                       |
|     | 19 July 126-30 |           | Charlie       |         | 8 kts.    |                   | merged approach.                      |

-23-

— page 150 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(F) SHIP CONTACTS (cont'd)

No. WHEN WHERE WHAT INIT R. C & S LOW CON REMARKS

8. 0015(F) 34-01 5 lug- 4,000 000 Radar Too dark for
   20 July 126-32 gers. 4 kts. gun attack.

9. 0124(F) 34-03 Sampan 5,600 010 Radar Too dark for
   20 July 126-38 5 kts. gun attack.

10. 1445(F) 33-58 DE(UN-1) 010 Peri. DE was searching
    20 July 126-31 6,000 15 kts. for Sea Robin.

11. 2047(F) 33-57 2 Sea 4,000 190 Radar Secret Enclosure.
    20 July 126-30 Trucks 6 kts.

12. 2325(F) 33-39 Spit 1,200 -- Sighted See Narrative.
    20 July 126-30 Kit

13. 2040(F) 33-53 Sea Truck 6,000 185 Sighted Secret Enclosure.
    21 July 126-33 or small 5 kts.
    Patrol Craft.

14. 2103(F) 33-51 3 Sea 10,000 -- Sighted Gun Attack # 1.
    21 July 126-32 Trucks

15. 2250(F) 33-54 Lugger 4,000 180 Sighted Gun Attack # 2.
    22 July 126-30 4 kts.

16. 0120(F) 33-46 Lugger 3,500 180 Sighted Gun Attack # 3.
    23 July 126-30 4 kts.

17. 1929(F) 33-54 2 Sea 10,000 180 Sighted Dived for plane;
    23 July 126-45 Trucks 6 kts. lost contact.

18. 0533(I) 33-53 1 AO 6,000 172 Peri. See Narrative.
    24 July 126-32 (1000 T) 7-9 kts.
    2 Sea Trucks
    1 PF

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS
While spending 16 days on L.G. station, we saw many friendly
planes and had literally hundreds of IFF contacts, some as far as
50 miles away. During this time only one enemy plane, a BETTY was
seen. She passed us about 8 miles away, heading towards IJA.
We sighted a TOKAI type plane about 12 different times while in
SAISHU KAIKYO and the YELLOW SEA. Upon one occasion we were bombed
twice after diving.
While 15 miles west of CHOSEN KAN an unidentified plane closed
us to 1000 yards before we detected it. We dived, but we were not
bombed. The time and POSIT are as follows:

1908(K) - 15 July 1945 - Lat. 38096 N. Long. 124-23 E.
-24-

— page 151 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (cont'd)
It would be interesting to know if this was an OKINAWA search
plane. No contact was made on the SD or APR and the plane was
detected while emerging from the overcast.
We made 6 night dives in SAISIU KAIKYO because of planes;
planes were detected on SD radar.

(F) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
PATROL No. 3.
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. TWO

Time: 0415(I) Date: July 10, 1945 Lat. 33-39 N. Long. 126-40 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: One unidentified AK, steering steady course.
This ship was loaded with gasoline and over
500 Army troops. Captured three Army
privates. Do not believe there are any
other survivors.

Ship Sunk: One unidentified AK, 4000 tons EU. Name of
ship to be obtained by questioning of the
three prisoners.

Damage determined by: Saw and heard four (4) timed torpedo hits.
Target disintegrated in mass of flames
incident to torpedo explosions and a large
gasoline explosion.

Target Draft 10 Ft. Course 200 T Speed 9 knots Range 900 yds.
(at firing).

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 11 knots Course 310 T Depth: Surface Angle 0
(at firing).

-25-

— page 152 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(I) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) Patrol No. 3.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. TWO
FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Standard night surface attack. Tracked target for
1.25 hours by radar. Speed and course exact. Not
zigging. Fired on visual bearings.

| | # 1 | # 2 | # 3 | # 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes fired | 85 P | 86 P | 90 P | 92 P |
| Track angle | 349 | 346 | 342 | 336 |
| Gyro angle | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Depth Set | 27.9 k | 27.9 k | 27.9 k | 27.9 k |
| Power (speed) | no | no | no | no |
| Erratic | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Mk. torpedo | 100659 | 100633 | 99994 | 100621 |
| Serial No. | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 |
| Mk. Exploder | 16929 | 16379 | 17123 | 17359 |
| Serial No. | contact | contact | contact | contact |
| Actuation Set | contact | contact | contact | contact |
| Actuation Actual | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Mk. Warhead | 5002 | 5199 | 5252 | 5718 |
| Serial No. | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX |
| Explosive | 10 sec. | 10 sec. | 10 sec. | 10 sec. |
| Firing interval | 3/4 L | 3/4 L | 1/4 R | 3/4 R (fwd. to aft). |
| Type Spread | 875 yd. | 800 yd. | 750 yd. | 675 yd. |
| Torpedo Run | 56 sec. | 51 sec. | 48 sec. | 43 sec. |
| Time Run | flat | flat | flat | flat |
| Sea Conditions | PI TF | PI TF | PI TF | PI TF |
| Overhaul Act. | 80 F | - | - | - |
| Temp. Elect. | 72 F | - | - | - |
| Injection Temp. | Hit | Hit | Hit | Hit |
| Hit or Miss |

Remarks: All four torpedoes were seen to run hot, straight, and
normal on the surface.

-26-

— page 153 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(H) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) PATROL NO. 3
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. THREE

Time: 2012(F) Date: July 19, 1945 Lat. 34-07 N. Long. 126-18 E.
TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
Description: Small inter-island steamer. Most prominent
feature was very large smoke stack.
(Estimated 1000 ton).
Ship Sunk: None.
Damage determined by: No damage. All torpedoes missed.
Target Draft 10 ft. Course 305 T Speed 6.5 knots Range 2,540 yds.
(at firing).

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 11 knots Course 045 T Depth: Surface Angle 0
(at firing).

-27-

— page 154 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(F) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) PATROL NO. 3.
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. THREE
FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Standard night surface attack. Initial radar
contact made at 9,450 yards. Tracked target for
one hour. Fired on visual bearing. Target was
not zigging.

| | # 1 | # 2 | # 3 | # 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes fired | 100 P | 100 P | 100 P | 100 P |
| Track angle | 342 | 341 | 340 | 341 |
| Gyro angle | 3 ft. | 3 ft. | 3 ft. | 3 ft. |
| Depth set | 27.9 k | 27.9 k | 27.9 k | 27.9 k |
| Power (speed) | miss | miss | miss | miss |
| Hit or miss | no | no | no | no |
| Erratic | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Mk. torpedo | 100317 | 100275 | 100524 | 100592 |
| Serial No. | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 |
| Mk. Exploder | 16371 | 15940 | 15970 | 17214 |
| Serial No. | contact | contact | contact | contact |
| Actuation Set | - | - | - | - |
| Actuation Actual | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Mk. Warhead | 6388 | 4799 | 5338 | 5320 |
| Serial No. | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX |
| Explosive | - | 10 sec. | 10 sec. | 10 sec. |
| Firing interval | 30 ft. | 30 ft. | 30 ft. | 30 ft. (fwd. to aft). |
| Type Spread | 2500 yd. | 2475 yd. | 2410 yd. | 2380 yd. |
| Torpedo run | - | - | - | - |
| Time run | calm | calm | calm | calm |
| Sea conditions | PH TH | PH TH | PH TH | PH TH |
| Overhaul Act. | 75 F | 75 F | 75 F | 75 F |
| Temp. Elect. | 65 F | 65 F | 65 F | 65 F |
| Injection Temp. |

Remarks: No end of run explosions were heard. Target was sighted
shortly before sunset while patrolling submerged. 43 min.
later visibility had decreased sufficiently so surfaced.
SJ picked up target on TDC bearing at 9450 yards. Visibility
increased as bright moon came up. Made surface radar
approach maneuvering for minimum silhouette. Target tracked
perfectly. Target practically on beach, depth of water 13
fathoms, so fired at 2540 yds. range. Reason for miss
undetermined.

-28-

— page 155 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(I) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) PATROL NO. 3.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. FIVE.

Time: 2340(H) Date: July 19, 1945 Lat. 34-01 N. Long. 126-30 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED.

Description: One (1) unescorted Sugar Charlie.

Ship Sunk: None.

Damage determined by: No damage. All torpedoes missed.

Target Draft 6 ft. Course 345 T Speed 8 knots Range 1800 yds.
(at firing).

OWN SHIP DATA.

Speed 3.5 knots Course 110 T Depth: Surface Angle 0
(at firing)

-29-

— page 156 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(F) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) PATROL NO. 3.
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. FIVE
FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Tracked target on surface by radar. Initial
radar contact 9850 yds. When target had closed
to 6000 yds. dived and commenced submerged approach.
Target was zig-zagging. With LOB 0, range 1800
yards, zig overdue, pulled off track for 120 degree
starboard track, stern shot. Target zigged 40
degrees to the right one minute after firing. All
torpedoes missed.

|                   | # 8      | # 9      | # 10               |
| :| :------- | :------- | :|
| Tubes fired       | 14 S     | 14 S     | 14 S               |
| Track angle       | 145 S    | 146 S    | 148 S              |
| Gyro angle        | 207-20   | 209      | 209-30             |
| Depth set         | 3 ft.    | 3 ft.    | 3 ft.              |
| Power (speed)     | 27.8 k   | 27.8 k   | 27.8 k             |
| Hit or miss       | miss     | miss     | miss               |
| Erratic           | no       | no       | no                 |
| Mk. torpedo       | 18-2     | 18-2     | 18-2               |
| Serial No.        | 100640   | 58195    | 100005             |
| Mk. exploder      | 8-7      | 8-7      | 8-7                |
| Serial No.        | 17306    | 15830    | 16880              |
| Actuation Set     | contact  | contact  | contact            |
| Actuation Actual  | -        | -        | -                  |
| Mk. Warhead       | 18-2     | 18-2     | 18-2               |
| Serial No.        | 5310     | 5066     | 5261               |
| Explosive         | TPX      | TPX      | TPX                |
| Firing interval   | -        | 10 sec.  | 10 sec.            |
| Type Spread       | 30 ft.   | 3 ft.    | 30 ft. (fwd to aft)|
| Torpedo run       | 2300 yd. | 2350 yd. | 2400 yd.           |
| Time run          | -        | -        | -                  |
| Sea Conditions    | calm     | calm     | calm               |
| Overhaul Act.     | TF TH    | TF TH    | TF TH              |
| Temp. Elect.      | 75 F     | 75 F     | 75 F               |
| Injection Temp.   | 70 F     | 70 F     | 70 F               |

Remarks: No end of run explosions were heard. Initial ST range
was 4400 yds. Believe torpedoes missed due to radical
zig just after firing.

-30-

— page 157 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(F) ATTACK DATA.
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) PATROL NO. 3.
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. EIGHT
Time: 0611(H) Date: July 24, 1945 Lat. 33-52 N. Long. 126-32 E.
TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Descripti. One small AO, estimate 1000 tons. Escorted
by FF, which was co-ranging. Two Sea
Trucks were also in company.

Ship Sunk: None.

Damage dete by: No damage. All torpedoes missed.

Target Draft ft. Course 172 T Speed 7.5 knots. Range 980 yds.
(at firing).

OWN SHIP DATA.
Speed 7.5 knots Course 260 T Depth 58 ft. Angle 0
(at firing).

-31-

— page 158 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(H) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407)
PATROL NO. 3.
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. EIGHT
FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Standard submerged approach using ST periscope.
    Initial ST range 3000 yds. Target was small AO
    escorted by PF, which was echo-ranging. Two
    Sea Trucks were also in company.

| | # 3 | # 4 | # 5 | # 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes fired | 130 P | 132 P | 136 P | 138 P |
| Track angle | 320 | 318 | 316 | 314 |
| Gyro angle | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | 4 ft. |
| Depth set | 27.8 k | 27.8 k | 27.8 k | 27.8 k |
| Power (speed) | miss | miss | miss | miss |
| Hit or miss | no | no | no | no |
| Erratic | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Mk. torpedo | 100576 | 100679 | 100328 | 100543 |
| Serial No. | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 | 8-7 |
| Mk. exploder | 17080 | 17196 | 11131 | 16986 |
| Serial No. | contact | contact | contact | contact |
| Actuation Set | - | - | - | - |
| Actuation Actual | | | | |
| Mk. Warhead | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Serial No. | 5030 | 5268 | 5680 | 5294 |
| Explosive | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX |
| Firing interval | - | 10 sec. | 10 sec. | 10 sec. |
| Type spread | 30 ft. | 30 ft. | 30 ft. | 30 ft. (fwd to aft). |
| Torpedo run | 1100 yd. | 1100 yd. | 1150 yd. | 1200 yd. |
| Time run | - | - | - | - |
| Sea conditions | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 |
| Overhaul Act. | 77 F | 77 F | 77 F | 77 F |
| Temp. Elect. | 75 F | 75 F | 75 F | 75 F |
| Injection Temp. | 72 F | 72 F | 72 F | 72 F |

Remarks: State of sea was 3.5. Torpedoes were set on 4 ft. No
    end of run explosions were heard. Convoy of ships was
    picked up while patrolling submerged. JK picked up two
    sets of echo ranging. Slipped by PF, and maneuvered for
    attack on AO. Had total of 3 ST ranges on AO. Target
    tracked at 7.5 knots, convoy speed. Fired at 980 yards
    range. Beli ve torpedoes ran under target. Convoy
    consisted of 1 1000 ton AO, one PF, and 2 Sea Trucks.

-32-

— page 159 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(F) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) PATROL NO. 3.
GUN ATTACK NO. 1(A) & 1 (B).
Time: 2230 (H) Date: 21 July 1945 Lat. 33-51 N. Long. 126-32 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Sunk: Two Sea Trucks: (A) 500 Tons - UMA MARU.
(B) 500 Tons - FOSHI MARU.
Tonnage based on length given by POW and
tonnage curve given in ONI 208-J supplement
No. 2.

Damage determined by: (A) Observed to sink.
(B) Burning vigorously, dead in the water,
and showing repeated violent explosions
as ammunition cargo detonated.

DETAILS OF ACTION

Sighted the two Sea Trucks heading south at about 5 knots.
Closed them and maneuvered to get them in the moon slick. Opened
fire first with both five inch guns. Fired 22 rounds of 5"/25
ammunition at each target for approximately 50% hits. Opening
range was 5000 yards and it was closed to 2900 yards.

One Jap POW (Army Private) was captured. POW states cargo
was lumber and anti-aircraft ammunition for use of army of SAISHU
TO. POW also states army using ten sea trucks to carry army supplies
from NOTTO, CHOSEN to SAISHU TO.

-33-

— page 160 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(F) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) PATROL NO. 3.

GUN ATTACK NO. 2.
Time: 2251(I) Date: 22 July 1945 Lat. 33-54 N. Long. 126-30 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Sunk: 1 Lugger, 60 tons. (EU) SINSEI MARU.

Damage determined by: Observed to sink.

DETAILS OF ACTION

Sighted the lugger heading south at a speed of 4 knots. Closed
to 3000 yards in bright moonlight and opened fire with No. 2 five
inch gun. Crew abandoned the lugger and it was sunk with the expend-
iture of 14 rounds of ammunition. Six (6) POW captured.

GUN ATTACK NO. 3.
Time: 0155(I) Date: 23 July 1945 Lat. 33-46 N. Long. 126-30 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Sunk: 1 small lugger, 50 tons. (EU).

Damaged determined by: Observed to sink.

DETAILS OF ACTION

Target was closed to 500 yards and fire was opened by two .50
cal. machine guns from the bridge. The machine gun fire was in-
effective due to the fact that the gunners were blinded by the flash
of the guns. No. 1 five inch gun was then manned and the target was
demolished by 6 rounds fired at 800 yards range. Seven POW captured
- one died aboard and six were set free the night of 25 July.

-34-

— page 161 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(I) MINES

89 floating mines were sighted.
11 in the MINO SHOTO AREA and the remainder in area 9 & 12.
The number of mines sighted was far out of proportion to our
ability to sink them by gun fire.

Mine Contact | Sea Robin Posit. | Remarks
No. | Lat. | Long. |
1 | 30-09 N. | 138-27 E. | Sunk
2 | 31-17 | 140-23 | Sunk
3 | 32-32 | 140-22 | Exploded
4 | 31-20 | 138-22 | Sunk
5 | 31-50 | 139-31 | -
6 | 31-39 | 140-32 | Sunk
7 | 31-24 | 140-22 | -
8 | 31-24 | 140-13 | -
9 | 31-12 | 139-51 | -
10 | 30-42 | 134-58 | -
11 | 30-42 | 134-33 | -
12 | 32-23 | 128-30 | -
13 | 35-33 | 124-22 | -
14 | 35-55 | 124-07 | -
15 | 35-44 | 123-47 | -
16 | 35-55 | 123-47 | -
17 | 35-37 | 123-46 | -
18 | 35-35 | 123-46 | -
19 - 49 | 34-30 to | 123-10 to | -
| 34-30 | 124-50 |
50 | 34-34 | 124-26 | -
51 | 34-34 | 124-26 | -
52 | 34-35 | 123-39 | -

-35-

— page 162 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(I) MINES (cont'd)

No. 53                 34-35                 123-39                 -
    54                 34-35                 123-39                 -
    55                 34-35                 123-39                 -
    56                 34-39                 123-24                 -
    57                 34-39                 123-24                 -
    58                 34-39                 123-24                 -
    59                 34-39                 123-24                 -
    60                 34-39                 123-24                 -
    61                 34-42                 123-22                 -
    62                 34-25                 123-16                 -
    63                 34-22                 123-15                 -
    64                 34-22                 123-13                 -
    65                 34-17                 123-12                 -
    66                 34-17                 123-11                 -
    67                 34-17                 123-11                 -
    68                 34-14                 123-10                 -
    69                 34-13                 123-08                 -
    70                 34-17                 123-10                 -
    71                 34-17                 123-10                 -
    72                 34-18                 123-10                 -
    73                 34-25                 123-10                 -
    74                 34-31                 123-10                 -
    75                 34-41                 123-10                 -
    76                 34-41                 123-10                 -
    77                 34-39                 123-19                 -
    78                 34-39                 123-20                 -

                                             -36-

— page 164 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (cont'd)
Engineering (cont'd)
2. On June 10 a slight leak was noted in the water jacket of
# 3 liner on # 4 M.E. The liner was replaced in GUAM.
3. On June 23 a slight whining noise was heard in # 1 M.E.
The engine was immediately secured and the blower inspected. The
lobes had wiped against each other and against the casing. This
will be the second straight run we have made with this service of
this engine due to identical blower casualty. It is believed that
the blower casing may be sprung. The casing was not renewed last
refit but it should be done this time to guard against a repetition
of this casualty.

Electrical
1. The master gyro failed due to a lead burning off from the
mercury contact causing a loss of one phase of the rotor. The lead
was replaced and no further trouble developed. The gyro again
failed later due to a shorted condenser in the follow up control
circuit. The condenser was replaced and there was no further trouble.
2. The auxiliary gyro developed a 10 to 15 degree error due
to a partial loss of vacuum. The vacuum was pumped up and the error
was greatly reduced.
3. The Bendix Log failed to rig in after rescuing an aviator.
The parachute attached to the boat dropped to the aviator caught on
the rodmeter and bent it slightly.

Hull
1. The removable sections of the after deck located over-the
mufflers of # 3 and # 4 main engine were not properly secured during
the last refit. As a result, the port section was carried away in
the first heavy sea we encountered. At the same time, the starboard
section was lifted out of place, and almost carried away but for the
fact that six studs on the inboard side of the section held fast.
Examination disclosed that no studs were holding down the outboard
side of the section; that it was held in by gravity. Prompt and
ingenious repairs by ship's force prevented loss of the starboard
section.
2. This vessel has experienced poor bow plane rigging operation
for two patrols. Investigation during last refit disclosed no faults,
other than that the rigging motor (Waterbury 10-B) was worn. However,
operation has disclosed the fact that if the bow plane tilting motor
was secured, the planes rigged in very slowly. If the tilting motor
was left on the planes rigged in satisfactorily. This indicates the
rigging interlock leaks. Also the bow planes have been rigging in a
few degrees while running submerged (in rigged-out position).
It is requested that a thorough check be made of the bow
plane system, including the spool valve on the rigging valve, in the
control room.

(L) RADIO
The following circuit frequencies were guarded on this patrol:

NTM fox skeds at all times.

-38-

— page 165 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
(1) RADIO (cont'd)

While on L.G. duty - 4475 Kcs.
140.58 Kcs. (VHF channel 1).
500 Kcs.

While on Station - Area frequencies.
140.58 Kcs.
4040 or 8080 Kcs. (Search Freq. of
COMFAIRWING 1).

In the rescue of an aviator we experienced little trouble
in communicating on 4475 kcs. with planes and the TWO JIMA air
sea rescue station.
Our 11 transmissions to COMSUBPAC were cleared direct to
NTN with no difficulty using 8470 kcs. at night and 16,940 kcs.
during the day. The reception of the fox skeds was good at all
times and no serials were missed. However copying on this area
frequencies was often times impossible due to both poor circuit
discipline and jamming by the Japs.
Although we guarded the OKINAWA search frequency continually
while in areas 9 and 12, only 3 transmissions were received.
No radio material casualties were experienced on this run.

(M) RADAR
Radar material performance on this patrol was fair. No major
casualties occurred, but many minor failures kept the technicians
busy most of the time.
The SD was keyed 5 seconds out of every minute and produced
average results. Double pulsing and erratic transmitter operations
could not be eliminated by adjustments of grid resistors, locking
voltage, cathode lines, or diplexer. This condition was eliminated
by replacing both 8014'S and readjusting the controls mentioned
above. This trouble was evidently caused by widely different tube
characteristics of the original 8014'S due to the partial failure
of one. One of the new 8014'S arced over internally causing very
high current after about 20 days service. This failure occurred at
a critical time and the tube was quickly replaced. Low flying
planes were not detected outside of six miles and one plane came
in low during poor visibility and and was not detected until it was
directly overhead.
The charring of R104 and R106, the failure of V103, and the
overheating of the power transformer in the SD preamplifier were
caused by the shorting of C104. The primary circuit of this trans-
former should be fused. The preamplifier was bypassed until re-
pairs could be made.
The AIR and SPA worked well except for 955 tube failures in
the tuning units. The installation of the switch for shifting
video outputs to the SPA seems to reduce the AIR output. The
directional antenna assemblies for the AIR were not all that we had
hoped for, though they were an improvement. They are not rugged
enough for submarine operating conditions and are not reliable as
they frequently go to ground for a given set of antenna wires
widely, and the resistance to ground for all antennas cannot be

-39-

— page 166 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(M) RADAR (cont'd)
kept at a value sufficiently large for proper operation.
The BN output dropped off twice due to the failure of two 1S1
tubes. Aside from this the operation of our IFF radar was normal.
The operation of the SJ was satisfactory except for two
occasions. The first failure was due to intermittent voltage cut-
out of the "A" rectifier. This trouble was traced to the
internal arcing of the switch on the main control unit which is
used for switching the voltmeter between "A" and "B" outputs. By
the time this trouble was located two of the 6Y6 tubes in the "A"
rectifier had been weakened so that normal operation was not re-
stored until these tubes had been replaced. The second period of
poor operation was due to weak magnetron output. This was indicated
by poor land echoes, weak R.F. output in the waveguide, and greatly
reduced ringing time. The magnetron filament voltage could not be
raised above the value of 6.3 volts though all other checks showed the supply
circuit elements for the magnetron filament to be normal. When our
tunable magnetron was removed and replaced by a new westinghouse
magnetron operation was restored to normal for two days when this
magnetron also lost its "soup". Another new westinghouse magnetron
was tried but its output and filament voltage was the same as the
two which had preceded it. The magnetron which had given good re-
sults on two previous patrols was put in, and after tuning conditions
were returned to normal and filament voltage on this magnetron was
easily adjusted to 6.3 volts. Aside from tube failures two additional
breakdowns occurred in the SJ equipment. R570 (47K), one of the screen
bloeder resistors for V510 in the range unit, opened causing widely
displaced double stops or no step at all depending on the setting of
the range dial. The main power switch on the control unit burned out
and was replaced by a lighting switch. This switch is not rugged
enough for the job it is doing and should be replaced by another in
a field change. This failure has occurred on many boats, and has also
occurred previously on this boat.
SJ operation was satisfactory after one major difficulty was
cleared up. The solenoid-spring arrangement for shifting the wave-
guide output from the dummy antenna to the periscope is unsatisfactory.
If the spring is given sufficient tension to insure positive shifting
of energy to the periscope, the solenoid is not strong enough to shift
to the dummy antenna. We discovered that our spring tension was such
that the correct shift was seldom made, and the unit often stopped at
some random intermediate position. This also affects the tuning and
tends to indicate instability in the tuning circuit which is actually
caused by the change of impedance into which the magnetron is working.
No microwave trapping was experienced on either SJ or ST but on
the night of July 21st second trip echoes were plentiful and the
[UNCLEAR: SPREADFIN'S] interference was strong when she was 50 miles away. Our
location at this time was 34-00 N. 126-45 E.

(N) SONAR GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS
No electrical troubles were encountered in the sound gear of
any major importance. Our chief problems were of a mechanical nature.
The TDM installation proved to be very good. It was operated
continuously on the surface, and has improved sound watch standing.

-40-

— page 167 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(N) SOUND CONDITIONS (cont'd)
considerably. Two training difficulties on the QB resulted from the
TDM installation. The hand training on the QB had to be removed as
it was noisy and caused wearing of the gears when driven continually
at this increased speed. Some arrangement should be made for clutch-
ing in and out as it constitutes an additional load
on an already overloaded motor generator. An additional trouble was
the failure of two 5306 bearings on the motor and of the QB training
motor generator. Both bearings were properly lubricated. The probable
cause of failure was high temperature due to continuous running under
increased load with insufficient ventilation, or due to heat trans-
ferred to the bearing through the shaft from the commutator. Excessive
heating of the commutator may have been caused by improper positioning
of the brushes or for this increased load. This should be checked when
all TDM installations are made. JK-QC training is squeaky due to the
binding of the idler shaft in the housing. This may have been caused
by the hard striking something and damaging the shaft. This trouble
will be investigated during refit as it is not a question of lubrica-
tion.
Several contacts were made on the TDM none of which were posit-
ively identified as torpedoes. Two of the traces appeared quite
genuine and avoidance measures were taken on all TDM contacts. Traces
are included as enclosure (D) to forwarding letter. No chances were
presented to observe sound conditions in the NAFTO AREA, and
sound conditions were evaluated as fair to poor in all cases in the
WEST CHINA and YELLOW SEA AREAS due to shallow water and temperature
gradients.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS
Five gradients beginning around 55 feet were a daily
occurrence in both ISIFU KAIYO and the YELLOW SEA areas throughout
the patrol. The temperature change between periscope depth and 125
feet would be as much as 15 to 20 degrees. In addition changes in
temperature of 5 or 6 degrees while cruising at periscope depth which
rapidly changed by 2 or 3 degrees were noted and made depth
control often times difficult even in a number one sea.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY
The health of the crew, officers and prisoners was exception-
ally good in spite of the fact that we carried 11 officers, 82 men
and 18 prisoners. One prisoner died and six were put in a rubber
boat off SISHU KAIYO.
Habitability of the boat was excellent incident to good per-
formance of the booster blower.

(Q) PERSONNEL
(a) No. of men detected after previous patrol 6
(b) No. of men on board during patrol 82
(c) No. of men qualified at start of patrol 56
(d) No. of men qualified at end of patrol 70
(e) No. of unqualified men making first patrol 8

The performance of all men and officers was excellent and left
nothing to be desired.
Four officers will be recommended for qualification in submarines
upon return to port.

-41-

— page 168 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED

Pearl to Guam 4030 Mi. 56,776 Gals.
Guam to L.G. Area 1069 Mi. 11,731 Gals.
In L.G. Area 3520 Mi. 35,409 Gals.
L.G. Area to Area 9 ...... 1172 Mi. 9,810 Gals.
In Area 2687 Mi. 23,680 Gals.
Area to Saipan 1975 Mi. 30,000 Gals.
Saipan to Midway 3000 Mi. 36,000 Gals.
Total 17453 Mi. 203,406 Gals.

(S) DURATION

Pearl to Guam 12 days.
At Guam 3 days.
Guam to L.G4 days.
On L.G. station 14 days.
L.G. station to Area 9 ... 2 days.
In Area 20 days.
Area to Saipan 5 days.
Saipan to Midway 10 days.
Total 70 days. 12 submerged days.

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING (AT SAIPAN)

Torpedoes | Fuel | Provisions | Personnel
(No.) | (Gals.) | (days) | (days)
3 | 3000 | 5 | 10

(U) COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES

Communications
None

Radar
Intercept of enemy signals.

Date | Lat. | Long. | Freq. | TRF | Pulse Width | Type Radar Remarks
6-12-45 | 16-35 N. | 145-50 E. | 90 | 300 | 10 | Land Search.
6-20-45 | 29-43 N. | 139-45 E. | 200 | 950 | 8 | Double Pulse.
6-20-45 | 27-02 N. | 137-34 E. | 157 | 500 | 8 | Airborne.
6-23-45 | 31-03 N. | 140-28 E. | 100 | 75 | 20 | Weak Contact.
6-23-45 | 31-03 N. | 140-28 E. | 110 | 100 | 20 | Weak Contact.
6-25-45 | 31-38 N. | 140-27 E. | 79 | 500 | 40 | Land Search.
6-25-45 | 31-32 N. | 140-12 E. | 150 | 500 | 8 | Airborne.
6-26-45 | 31-32 N. | 140-11 E. | 150 | 500 | 5 | Double Pulse.
6-26-45 | 31-32 N. | 138-36 E. | 158 | 300 | 10 | Land Search.
6-26-45 | 31-32 N. | 138-36 E. | 152 | 750 | 7 | Airborne.
6-26-45 | 31-29 N. | 138-38 E. | 110 | | | Very Weak.

-42-

— page 169 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL.
(U) COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES (cont'd)

Radar (cont'd)
6-26-45 31-29 N. 138-38 E. 100 - - Very Weak.
6-26-45 32-18 N. 139-55 E. 162 750 20 Land Search.
6-26-45 32-29 N. 138-59 E. 82 500 25 Land Search.
6-27-45 33-04 N. 140-21 E. 105 1000 25 Land Search.
6-27-45 33-04 N. 140-21 E. 80 400 40 Land Search.
6-28-45 32-14 N. 140-05 E. 155 400 7 Lora Shima.
6-29-45 29-57 N. 139-50 E. 79 500 50 Land Search.
6-30-45 31-40 N. 140-01 E. 100 240 25 Land Search.
6-30-45 31-30 N. 140-00 E. 158 300 10 Smith Island.
7-1-45 31-53 N. 139-38 E. 156 250 10 Airborne.
7-2-45 31-29 N. 140-21 E. 158 400 7 Airborne.
7-2-45 31-30 N. 140-22 E. 160 550 10 Land Search.
7-5-45 30-48 N. 136-31 E. 152 500 10 Weak Contact.
7-5-45 30-39 N. 135-11 E. 140 400 15 Land Search.
7-5-45 30-42 N. 134-53 E. 78 200 40 Land Search.
7-5-45 30-42 N. 134-53 E. 98 500 15 Land Search.
7-5-45 30-42 N. 134-53 E. 138 400 15 Land Search.
7-5-45 30-42 N. 134-53 E. 155 500 12 Land Search.
7-5-45 30-42 N. 134-53 E. 165 1000 5 Land Search.
7-5-45 30-41 N. 134-44 E. 100 200 8 Land Search.
7-6-45 30-14 N. 132-18 E. 95 250 10 Land Search.
7-6-45 30-14 N. 132-17 E. 157 400 14 Land Search.
7-6-45 30-14 N. 132-17 E. 98 400 30 Land Search.
7-6-45 31-00 N. 130-02 E. 105 750 20 Land Search.
7-6-45 31-04 N. 130-09 E. 164 500 5 Double Pulse.
7-7-45 31-40 N. 129-16 E. 165 350 10 Slow Sweep.
7-7-45 31-40 N. 129-16 E. 98 650 20 Land Search.
7-7-45 31-40 N. 129-16 E. 78 400 30 Land Search.
7-7-45 31-40 N. 129-15 E. 193 650 20 Land Search.
7-7-45 31-40 N. 129-15 E. 95 600 20 Land Search.
7-8-45 33-48 N. 126-57 E. 154 800 7 Keyed Airborne.
7-8-45 33-48 N. 126-57 E. 152 600 8 Very erratic.
7-8-45 33-48 N. 126-57 E. 167 400 5 Triple Pulse.
7-8-45 33-48 N. 126-57 E. 82 400 20 Land Search.
7-9-45 33-53 N. 126-40 E. 150 500 10 Slow Sweeping.
7-9-45 33-53 N. 126-40 E. 155 900 10 Airborne.
7-11-45 33-59 N. 126-30 E. 75 400 50 Land Search.
7-12-45 33-25 N. 125-35 E. 155 400 8 Double Sweeping.
7-13-45 35-40 N. 125-02 E. 158 400 10 Weak Airborne.
7-14-45 38-19 N. 124-16 E. 78 500 20 Weak Land Search.
7-16-45 36-23 N. 123-39 E. 100 750 20 Weak Contact.
7-16-45 35-54 N. 123-36 E. 95 - - Weak Contact
7-17-45 34-22 N. 123-56 E. 155 400 8 Land Search.
7-17-45 34-22 N. 123-56 E. 79 500 40 Slow Sweeping.
7-21-45 33-53 N. 123-56 E. 100 400 50 Land Search.
7-21-45 33-51 N. 126-31 E. 155 500 8 Airborne.
7-23-45 33-40 N. 126-32 E. 96 500 20 Land Search.
7-23-45 33-40 N. 126-54 E. 82 450 25 SAISHU TO.

Sonar
None.

-43-

— page 170 —
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

(V) REMARKS

1. No difficulty was experienced in handling 18 POW aboard. They
were given a standard ration and worked about 12 hours a day. They
were very reluctant to leave when we reached SAIPAN. The seaman, who
was a native of OKINAWA, thought he ought to be an American citizen
now that we have taken over that Island.

2. All hands of the Sea Robin wish our past Executive Officer Lt-
Comdr. ECKERT the best of luck with his new command.

3. In view of the extended patrols experienced by this vessel:
1st - 64 days; 2nd - 66 days; and 3rd - 70 days; it is strongly
recommended that this boat be given a navy yard overhaul at the
end of the fifth war patrol.

— page 171 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THREE TWENTY-ONE

FB5-321/A16-3                                        Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial: (088)                                        San Francisco, California,
                                                     12 August 1945.
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS SEA ROBIN (SS407)
Conf. ltr. A16-3 over
Serial (06) dated
9 August 1945.

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

Subject:     U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

             1. The third war patrol of the U.S.S. SEA ROBIN, during
the period 1 June 1945 to 9 August 1945, was conducted in the Nanpo
Shoto and Yellow Sea areas.

             2. Life guard duties, resulting in the rescue of one
Mustang pilot, were conducted for sixteen days, before entering
the Yellow Sea where aggressive area coverage producted numerous
contacts. Suitable torpedo targets were scarce.

             3. Action resume' follow:

             (a). On 8 July a large PC type ship was destroyed in
an attack covered by a special report. One prisoner was
recovered.

             (b). The following day, after being unable to close
a DE, an unidentified AK, with one escort was contacted by radar.
A surface approach was conducted in bad visibility. Four
electric torpedoes were fired from 875 yards on an 80° track for
four hits. Target exploded and sank leaving a large gasoline
fire on the surface. Three prisoners were recovered from a
number that miraculously survived the explosion and fire. They
reported that the ship carried 500 soldiers and a cargo of
gasoline.

             (c). A small inter-island steamer was attacked on
19 July after surface tracking. Four torpedoes were fired from
2500 yards with 20° gyros on a 100° track for no hits. After
maneuvering for positon another attack, covered by a special
report, was delivered. Target escaped into shallow water.

                                   - 1 -

— page 172 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THREE TWENTY-ONE

FF5-321/A16-3
'Serial: (088)

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

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS SEA ROBIN (SS407)
Conf. ltr. A16-3 over
Serial (06) dated
9 August 1945.

Subject: - - - U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

(d). An unescorted SC was attacked after a submerged
approach the same night. Three electric torpedoes fired from
the stern tubes on a 110° track from 1800 yards missed due to
a 40° zig after firing. SEA ROBIN surfaced and attempted an end
around, but the target escaped in a mined pass.

(e). A DE on an A/S sweep was contacted the following
day and an approach was commenced. The DE evidently heard the
high speed approach and began a game of hide and seek. SEA ROBIN
was, at one time, able to reach a firing range of 2200 yards,
but target changed course away and good firing position could
not again be reached.

(f). An attack on two sea trucks, covered by a special
report, was conducted during the night of 20 July.

(g). Another attack was conducted the following night
on a small ship. This also is the subject of a special report.

(h). On 21 July, two sea trucks were sunk by gun fire
after a total expenditure of 44 rounds of 5" ammunition. One
prisoner was recovered.

(i). The next night, after a battle surface, a small
lugger was sunk by 14 rounds of 5". Six prisoners were recovered.

(j). Later that night 6 rounds of 5" and 1500 rounds
of .50 cal. sank another lugger which yielded 7 prisoners. One
badly wounded prisoner did not survive.

(k). On 24 July, a convoy of a PF, a 1000 ton AO and
2 sea trucks, were attacked after a submerged approach. Four
electric torpedoes fired from 980 yards on a 10 port track
with 40° gyro missed. Depth set was four feet but torpedoes
probably under ran. A search plane prevented further pursuit.

- 2 -
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
12 August 1945.

— page 173 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THREE TWENTY-ONE

FB5-321/A16-3

Serial: (088)

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

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS SEA ROBIN (SS407)
Conf. ltr. A16-3 over
Serial (06) dated
9 August 1945.

Subject: - U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

(1). On 26 July, six prisoners were set adrift close
to Saishu City in accordance with orders received.

(m). On 6 August, following a life guard mission at
Wake Island, SEA ROBIN conducted an excellent bombardment of
the islands eastern end, 135 rounds of 5" were deposited from
9 - 10,000 yards without opposition.

4.
SEA ROBIN returned from patrol in a very clean
condition with high morale. Length of refit will be normal.

5.
The Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew are heartily
congratulated upon the completion of this seventy day patrol so
aggressively and productively conducted.

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
12 August 1945.

[SIGNATURE: J. R. Waterman]
J. R. WATERMAN.

— page 174 —
FC5-32/A16-3
Serial: 0110
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
USS SEA ROBIN (SS407)
Report of Third War Patrol
Dated 9 August 1945.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

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

2. It is recommended that the U.S.S. SEA ROBIN be credited with the
following damage to enemy surface units on her third war patrol.

                                                                Dv
COMMANDER SUBMARINE SQUADRON THIRTY-TWO
                                        Care of Fleet Post Office
                                        San Francisco, California.
                                        14 August 1945.

                                        SUNK
1 - AK (EU)                                     4,000 Tons (Torpedo Attack #2)
1 - MIS UMA MARU (EC)                             500 Tons (Gun Attack # 1A)
1 - MIS HOSHI MARU (EC)                           500 Tons (Gun Attack # 1B)
1 - MIS LUGGER (EU)                                50 Tons (Gun Attack # 2)
                                        TOTAL   5,050 TONS

3. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the U.S.S. SEA ROBIN
are heartily congratulated upon the completion of this long, active, and well
conducted third war patrol and for their aggressive and determined attacks
upon the enemy.

                                        [SIGNATURE: K.C. Hurd]
                                        K.C. HURD.

— page 175 —
(A)/A16-3(18)
rial 02336

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SEA ROBIN Report of
Third War Patrol

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
                                                                bn
                                        Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                        San Francisco, California,
                                        19 September, 1945

NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
      DESTROYED PRIOR TO
      ENTERING PATROL AREA.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 865
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN - THIRD WAR PATROL.

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

Subject:       U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of Third War Patrol
               (1 June to 9 August 1945).

     1.      The third war patrol of the U.S.S. SEA ROBIN, under the command
of Commander P. C. Stimson, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the vicinity of the
Nanpo Shoto and in the East China and Yellow Seas.

     2.      The Force Commander notes with approval that the SEA ROBIN,
proceeding to area in company with another submarine, seized the opportunity
to pursue an intensive and comprehensive training program. The first sixteen
days on station were devoted to lifeguard services. Aided by excellent coopera-
tion with air rescue control and assisting planes, the SEA ROBIN had the satis-
faction of rescuing one U.S.A.A.F. pilot in a difficult night recovery. The
remainder of the patrol, devoted to offensive cruising, was characterized by
well conceived and thorough search for the enemy. The SEA ROBIN was rewarded
by numerous contacts from which she was able to develop eight torpedo attacks
and three gun actions.

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

     4.      The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, takes pleasure
in congratulating the commanding officer, officers, and crew of the SEA ROBIN
on the completion of this spirited and successful final war patrol during which,
and in addition to the rescue of one army officer, the following damage was
inflicted upon the enemy:

[HANDWRITTEN: R. AK]

                                     SUNK

1 - PC or AM (EU)                               - 500 tons (Special Report)
1 - AP (EU)                                     - 4,000 tons (Attack No. 2)
1 - MIS (UMA MARU) (EC)                         - 500 tons (Gun Attack No. 1A)
1 - MIS (HOSHI MARU) (EC)                       - 500 tons (Gun Attack No. 1B)
1 - MIS (Lugger) (EU)                           - 60 tons (Gun Attack No. 2)
1 - MIS (Lugger) (EU)                           - 50 tons (Gun Attack No. 3)

TOTAL SUNK                                      5,610 tons

                                                G. C. CRAVEN
                                                Chief of Staff.

                                     - 1 -

— page 176 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)

Serial 02336

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SEA RO II Report of
Third War Patrol.

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
                                                                bn
                                        Care of Fleet Post Office
                                        San Francisco, California
                                        19 September, 1945

                                        NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
                                              DESTROYED PRIOR TO
                                              ENTERING PATROL AREA.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 865
U.S.S. SEA ROBIN - THIRD WAR PATROL.

Subject:      U.S.S. SEA ROBIN (SS407) - Report of Third War Patrol
              (1 June to 9 August 1945).

— page 177 —
END OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108]

|||||1.0  4.5 |||||2.8  |||||2.5
|||||    5.0 |||||3.2  |||||2.2
|||||    5.6 |||||3.6  |||||2.0
|1.1  6.3 |||||4.0  |||||1.8
|||||    7.1
|||||    8.0
|1.25 |||||1.4 |||||1.6

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION