U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS-218) — war patrol report SS-218_ALBACORE_Part1.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-142-77]

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OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: DEBOSE]

DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 3-7-77]

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

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

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

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Office Of Naval Records and History
Ships' Histories Section
Navy Department

BRIEF HISTORY OF USS ALBACORE (SS 218)

The USS ALBACORE with Lieutenant Commander H.R. Rimmer in
command, left Pearl Harbor on 24 October 1944, topped off with fuel
at Midway on 28 October, and departed there for her eleventh patrol
the same day, never to be heard from again. Her area was northeast
of Honshu and south of Hokkaido, and because of the danger of mine-
able waters, she was ordered to stay outside of waters less than
100 fathoms deep.

She was to depart her area at sunset on 5 December 1944, and
was expected at Midway about 12 December. When she had not been seen
or heard from by 21 December despite the sharpest of lookouts for her
she was reported as presumed lost.

Enemy information available now indicates that ALBACORE perishe
by hitting a mine. The explosion occured on 7 November 1944, in
latitude 41°- 49'N, longitude 141°-11'E while ALBACORE was submerged,
and was witnessed by an enemy patrol craft. The craft reports having
seen much heavy oil and bubbles, cork, bedding and various provisions
after the explosion.

Prior to her loss, ALBACORE had been a very successful submarin
especially in her engagements with Japanese combat vessels. Her
record of enemy combatant ships sunk is the best of any United States
submarine. She sank a total of 13 ships, totaling 74,100 tons, and
damaged five, for 29,400 tons, during her first ten patrols. She
began her series of patrols with one at Truk in September 1942, dama-
ging two freighters and a tanker. On her second patrol, near New
Britain, ALBACORE sanka transport, and on 18 December 1942, the
Japanese light cruiser TENRYU. Her third patrol was in the Bismarck
Archipelago; ALBACORE sank an escort vessel and a destroyer. The
latter was OSHIO sunk near the New Guinea coast on 20 February 1943.
During her fourth patrol again in the Bismarck-Solomons-area, ALBACOR
was able to inflict no damage on the enemy herself, but she sent
contact reports which enabled GRAYBACK to sink several enemy ships.

In her fifth patrol, ALBACORE covered the same area and damaged a
transport. She patrolled the Truk area on her sixth war run, sinking
one freighter and damaging another.

ALBACORE's seventh and eighth war patrol were both in the area
north of the Bismarck Archipelago during the period from mid-October
1943 to the end of February 1944. In her seventh patrol she sank a
freighter and in her eighth a transport. In addition, during her
her eighth patrol on 14 January, ALBACORE sank a Japanese destroyer.

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-2- USS ALBACORE

SAYANAMI. ALBACORE was ordered to patrol west of the Marianas and in
the Palau area during the Allied invasion of these places in July
1944. In her seventh patrol she sank a freighter and in her eighth a
transport. In addition, during the eighth patrol on 14 January,
ALBACORE sank a Japanese destroyer SAYANAMI. ALBACORE was ordered
to patrol west of the Marianas and in the Palau area during the Allied
invasion of these places in July 1944. On 19 June she intercepted a
Japanese task force proceeding from Tawi Taw anchorage, in the Sulu
Archipelago, toward Saipan to engage our surface forces in the First
Battle of the Philippine Sea. ALBACORE torpedoed and sank the air-
craft carrier TAIHO. In addition, she sank a small freighter on
this ninth patrol. ALBACORE conducted her tenth patrol near the
southern coast of Shikoku, Japan. Here she sank a medium freighter,
a medium tanker and a large patrol craft. ALBACORE has been awarded
the Presidential Unit Citation for her second, third, eighth and
ninth patrols, the ones in which she sank enemy combatant vessels.

From a compilation of submarine losses in World War II prepared
by the Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting
the PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION to the

UNITED STATES SHIP ALBACORE (SS 218)

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

"For extraordinary heroism in action against enemy Japanese
shipping and combatant units during her Second War Patrol in
the New Guinea Area from November 11 to December 2, 1942; her
Third War Patrol in the Admiralty Islands from January 20 to
March 11, 1943; her Eighth War Patrol north of the Bismarck
Archipelago from December 26, 1943, to February 22, 1944; her
Ninth War Patrol west of the Marianas from May 29 to July 16,
1944. By aggressive and tenacious area coverage, the USS
ALBACORE made contact on a speeding major enemy task force and
defying numerous destroyers and hostile aircraft which screened
the valuable Fleet units on every quarter and the inevitable
countermeasures, pressed home her attack. Brilliantly manoeuver-
ing between the menacing escorts to reach the center of the
powerful enemy group, the ALBACORE, despite a last minute break
down of vital fire control equipment, launched her torpedoes
and demolished a 29,800 ton aircraft carrier. Skillfully
evading severe counterattacks, this gallant fighting ship
returned to inflict further crippling blows against the enemy
by sinking seven ships, including a light cruiser and two
destroyers, for a total of nearly 50,000 tons. The courage and
steadfast devotion to duty of the ALBACORE's valiant offi-
cers and men are reflected in this outstanding combat record and
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service."

For the President
James Forrestal
Secretary of the Navy

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-3- USS ALBACORE

USS ALBACORE (SS 218) earned nine Battle Stars on the Asiatic-
Pacific Area Service Medal, for participating in the following oper-
ations:

1 Star/Capture and Defense of Guadalcanal -- 10 August 1942 to 8
February 1943

1 Star/Eastern New Guinea Operation
Supporting and Consolidating Operations Designated by
Commander SEVENTH Fleet -- 17 December 1942 to 24 July
1944

1 Star/Consolidation of Solomon Islands
Consolidation of Southern Solomons -- 8 February to 20 June
1943

1 Star/New Georgia Group Operation
New Georgia-Rendova-Vangunu Occupation -- 20 June to 31 August
1943

1 Star/Bismarck Archipelago Operation
Arawe, New Britain -- 15 December 1943 to 1 March 1944

1 Star/Marianas Operation
Battle of Philippine Sea -- 19 to 20 June 1944

1 Star/Western Caroline Island Operation
Raids on Volcano-Bonin Islands and Yap Island -- 31 August
to 8 September 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol -- Pacific - 23 August to 26 September
1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol -- Pacific -- 12 October to 5 December
1943

****

STATISTICS

OVERALL LENGTH                                312 feet
BEAM                                          27 feet
SPEED                                         20 knots
DISPLACEMENT                                  1,525 tons

***
Restonciled July 1951

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DECLASSIFIED
F16/Serial 072

October 21, 1942,
c/o Postmaster,
San Francisco, California.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander Submarine Force.

Subject: War Patrol, First, Forwarding.

Reference (a) Submarines, Pacific Fleet, Confidential
letter 15. 12-42.

1. In accordance with reference (a), the first war
patrol report of ALBACORE is forwarded herewith.

2. As reference was received subsequent to writing
report, the prologue is appended in this letter.

3.

U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of First War Patrol.

Period from August 28, 1942 to October 20, 1942.

Area: North and Northeast Operation Order: Comsubpac 76-42 of
Pass, Truk Islands. August 24, 1942 as
modified by Comsub-
pac 052319 of Sept-
ember, 1942.

Arrived Pearl Harbor, T.H., August 12, 1942, from
New London, Connecticut. Commenced overhaul of four main engines
assisted by U.S.S. SPERRY. Accomplished other items of refit.
Completed overhaul on August 22, 1942. Degassed and calibrated
for degaussing. Sound test. Training period 24 - 25 August, 1942.
Ready for sea on August 27, 1942.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED AUT. 045, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY P09B9C, DATE 3/22/72]

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DECLASSIFIED
ENCLOSURE (B)

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of First War Patrol.
Period from August 28, 1942 to October 20, 1942.
Area: North and Northeast Operation Order: Comsubpac 76-42 of
Pass, Truk Islands. August 24, 1942 as
modified by Comsub-
pac 052319 of Sept-
ember, 1942.

I NARRATIVE

August 28, Departed Pearl for patrol area, in company U.S.S.
0915 V: GROUPER, escorted by U.S.S. RAMSEY and U.S.S.
LITCHFIELD. Conducted ship's drills and made trim
dive. LITCHFIELD released 2 depth charges close
aboard. Held battle surface and fired 7 rounds
3"-50 caliber training ammunition. Also fired .50
and .30 caliber machine guns. At 1500 V GROUPER and
LITCHFIELD departed. ALBACORE escorted by RAMSEY
until nightfall. Proceeding at best 2 engine speed,
base course 235° T.

August 29, Lat 19-05N; Long 162-25W. Sighted Navy PBY plane
0710 K 090 T, distance 6 miles, parallel course. Exchanged
recognition signals.

August 31 Received CTF-7 despatch to survey Ocean and Nauru
Islands.

Sept 1, Held night battle surface drill and fired 5 rounds
2000 Y 3" training ammunition.

Sept 2, Lat 7-25N; Long 177-30E. On SD Radar contact dis-
0927 H tance 8 miles, submerged for 45 minutes. Plane un-
sighted.

Sept. 4, Commenced submerged day run to approach Mili Atoll-
0600 H Makin Isle Passage. Surfaced 1804 H. Received
CTF-7 despatch to proceed Tarawa Isle and invest-
igate ships in harbor. At 2015 H proceeded at best
3 engine speed on course to pass between Makin-Abaiang
Isles.

Sept. 5 Lat 01-25N; Long 172-40E. Sighted smoke and Bititu
1012 H Isle (Tarawa) bearing 115° T, distance 18 miles.
Submerged to approach harbor.

- 2 - ENCLOSURE (B)

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CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of First War Patrol.

Sept. 10, Lat 5-45N; Long 156-40E. Sighted plane bearing
0653 K 118° T, distance 12 miles. Submerged for 1 hour
and plane not further sighted.

0914 K Lat 6-00N; Long 156-05E. On SD Radar contact
distance 2 miles, submerged. No plane sighted
and surfaced 35 minutes later.

Sept. 11, Lat 7-15N; Long 154-09E. Entered patrol area
0015 K and came to base course 276° T, to close Truk
distance 110 miles. At 0510 submerged for day
run to prevent sighting in proximity to station.
At 1843 surfaced and continued closing Truk.
Received CTF-7 despatch on suggestion to invest-
igate Fayu-Onon Isle passage.

Sept. 12, Sighted Moen Isle bearing 245° T, distance 25
0530 K miles, and 16 miles from North East Passage. At
0918 sighted masts of ship bearing 351° T.
Started approach and abandoned attack at 4000
yards when target disclosed as small patrol
cutter. This was the same type cutter to be
sighted almost daily for the remainder of the
patrol, off both the North East and North Pas-
sages. Has high gun well forward and mast with
device similar in appearance to our radar.
Patrols at various speeds, stopping to listen
from time to time. Apparently has only sonic
listening gear as no pings were ever heard.
Decided on periscope submerged patrol by day
and on surface at night.

Sept. 13, Lat 8-34N; Long 151-10E: Sighted two 8000 ton
0722 K cargo vessels, range 12,000 yards, in column
formation, zig-zagging by turn movements. Made
submerged approach and at 0746 fired 3 torpedoes
at leading ship and 2 torpedoes at second ship.
One hit and possibly 2 on leading ship and miss-
ed second. Both turned away at high speed. At
0752 series of heavy explosions around ALBACORE
at 200 feet as believed to be bombs.
At 0757 came to periscope depth on possibility
that explosions were gunfire from cargo ships.
Targets well clear to South. Lost depth control
when negative flood opened under pressure and
abandoned attack upon reaching periscope depth.

- 4 - ENCLOSURE (B)

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DENTIAL
U.S.S. ALBACORE---Report of First War Patrol.
Subject:
1100 K
Three heavy explosions, close aboard. A total
of 14 had been heard since 0630. Nothing sight-
ed. Went to 150 feet as bomber must be above
arc of periscope and able to see ALBACORE easily
at periscope depth. At 1109 sound picked up
fast screws approaching 045 relative. Also a
second vessel at 030 relative. Started steering
various courses at 1/3 speed to keep vessels aft
and went to 200 then 250 feet as depth charges
commenced to drop. A total of 16 were dropped
over a period of the next four hours, all singly.
The 2 vessels apparently had only sonic listening
gear, and stopped from time to time to listen,
and then would speed up and drop a single depth
charge. At 1548 back to periscope depth and
sighted 2 sub chasers approaching on the star-
board bow, distance .3 miles with a low flying
observation plane above them. At this moment
sound picked up their screws again and went to
250 feet to lose them. At 1557 the 2 vessels
were joined by a third vessel having super-
sonic gear, and throughout the remainder of the
day vessels crisscrossed over ALBACORE close
enough to hear the propeller noise throughout
the boat. The pinging done by the third vessel
seemed very effective. At 1730 by reducing to
the most silent running condition, all auxiliar-
ies secured, men in bunks, men on watch barefoot
RPM, after 7 hours of constant contact. No depth
charges were dropped after about 1400. Although
vessels were much closer throughout the after-
noon than in morning. 1845 Surfaced and cleared
immediate area at 4 engine speed. Cutters not
further sighted.

Oct. 12,
0230 K.
Departing patrol area on eastward course. Obtained
receipt for carrier contact despatch from San
Francisco.

Oct. 13,
0100 L
Enroute Midway via Ujelang and Eniwetok Atolls at
2 engine speed. Base course 090° T. Sent area
departure despatch to CTF-7.

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ENCLOSURE "B"

— page 15 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of First War Patrol.

(c) Currents encountered are tabulated as follows:

Position             Force   Direction   Date        Remarks

Pearl to             0.3     W           8/28 to     Pearl to north of Makin
Lat 5-15N;                               9/4/42      Island.
Long 174E

Lat 5-15N;           2.0     E           9/4/42      Counter current north
Long 174E to                                         of Makin Island.
Lat 3-40N;
Long 173-20E

Lat 3-20N;           0/5     N           9/4/42      East of Makin Island.
Long 173E to
Lat 3-00N;
Long 173E

Lat 3-00N;           5.0     NE          9/5/42      Makin to Apaiang Isles.
Long 172-40E to
Lat 1-30N;
Long 172-40E

Lat 1-30N;           2.0     N           9/5/42      West of Tarawa.
Long 172-40E

Lat 1-20N;           1.0     N           9/5/42      West of Tarawa.
Long 172-52E

Lat 1-30N;           1.2     W           9/6/42      Tarawa to Ocean.
Long 172-10E to
Lat 0-52S;
Long 169-38E

Lat 0-42S;           1.2     W           9/6/42      East of Ocean.
Long 169-50E

Lat 0-44S;           1.5     280°        9/6/42      East of Ocean.
Long 169-46E

Lat 0-49S;           2.75    290°        9/6/42      East of Ocean.
Long 169-42E

Lat 0-50.5;          3.2     250°        9/6/42      East of Ocean
Long 169-40E

- 11 -                                   ENCLOSURE "B"

— page 16 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACOR - Report of First War Patrol.

Position             Force   Direction   Date        Remarks
Lat 0-52S;           2.75    360°        9/6/42      Current seemed to divide
Long 169-40E                                         at this point.

Lat 0-54.5S;         1.5     315°        9/6/42      South of Ocean.
Long 169-34E

Lat 0-34S;           1.7     W           9/7/42      Southwest of Nauru.
Long 166-52E

Lat 0-30S;           1.0     W           9/7/42      West of Nauru.
Long 166-50E

Lat 0-30S;           0.3     NW          9/10/42     Nauru to Truk.
Long 166-50E to
Lat 7-30N;
Long 152-30E

Lat 8-00N;           0.3     NW          Sept.       North of Truk.
Long 151-45E                                         Oct.

Lat 8-35N;           0.3     NW          Sept.       Onon-Fayu Passage.
Long 151-00E                                         Oct.

Lat 8-35N;           1.0     SE          Sept.       North Fayu Isle.
Long 151-20E                                         Oct.

Lat 8-50N;           1.0     SE          Sept.       North of Hall Isle.
Long 151-15E                                         Oct.

Lat 8-35N;           0.5     NW          Sept.       East of Onon.
Long 150-33E                                         Oct.

Lat 9-00N;           0.4     NE          10/13/42    Average Truk to Ujelang
Long 154-45E                                         Isle.

Lat 9-41N;           0.5     SW          10/14/42    South of Ujelang Isle.
Long 160-57E

Lat 9-50N;           0.3     W           10/14/42    Northeast of Ujelang
Long 161-02E                                         Isle.

Lat 10-35N;          0.3     NW          10/15/42    Oue Ujelang to Eniwetok.
Long 161-47E

- 12 - ENCLOSURE "B"

— page 20 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of First War Patrol.

Date       Time   Position           Course   Speed   Remarks

10/3/42    1548
           K      Lat 8-13N          090      5-10    Catcher type patrol
                  Long 150-16E                       cutter off North
                                                       Passage Truk.

10/4/42    0752
           K      Lat 8-02N          090      5-10    Catcher type patrol
                  Long 151-32E                       cutter off North
                                                       Passage Truk.

10/4/42    0910
           K      Lat 8-02N          090      5-10    Two catcher type
                  Long 151-35E                       patrol cutters off
                                                       North Passage Truk.

10/7/42    1630
           K      Lat 8-33N          160      5-10    Two catcher type
                  Long 151-10E                       patrol cutters off
                                                       North Passage Truk.

10/8/42    2130
           K      Lat 8-43N          000      5-10    Two sub chaser patrol
                  Long 151-06E                       cutters off Fayu I.

10/9/42    0700
           K      Lat 8-20N          120      18      One CV-Zuikaku Class,
                  Long 151-10E       210              enroute North Passage
                                                       Truk. Attack #5.

10/9/42    0700
           K      Lat 8-18N          120      18      One CA-Mogami Class,
                  Long 151-12E       210              enroute North Passage
                                                       Truk. Escorting CV.

10/9/42    0700
           K      Lat 8-18N          120      18      One DD-escort for CV,
                  Long 151-12E       210              enroute North Passage
                                                       Truk.

10/10/42   1617
           K      Lat 8-20-N         140      15      4000 Ton cargo ship
                  Long 151-21E                       enroute North Passage
                                                       Truk. Attack #6.

10/10/42   1955
           K      Lat 7-59N          000      5-10    Catcher type patrol
                  Long 151-29E                       cutters off North
                                                       Passage Truk.

10/11/42   0530
           K      Lat 7-59N          180      5-10    [UNCLEAR: Catcher type patrol]
                  Lo [UNCLEAR: 151-29E]              [UNCLEAR: cutters off North]
                                                       [UNCLEAR: Passage Truk.]

- 16 -     ENCLOSURE "B"

— page 21 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of First War Patrol.

Date | Time | Position | Course | Speed | Remarks
10/11/42 | 1458 | Lat 7-55N | various | 0-10 | Two sub chaser
| | K | Long 152-18E | | | patrol cutters
| | | | | | tracking ALBA-
| | | | | | CORE off North-
| | | | | | east Pass Truk.
10/15/42 | 1300 | Lat 11-27N | | | Sunken ship in
| | L | Long 162-24E | | | Eniwetok Atoll
| | | | | | lagoon.

ENEMY BASES OBSERVED

(a) Tarawa Island (Cook) - Gilbert Group.
    Lat 1-30N; Long 173-00E.
    Date: September 5, 1942.
    Time: 1030 M to 1900 M.

    Periscope observation from 3 miles west Bititu
    Isle, harbor entrance. One Japanese 5000 ton
    cargo ship; 1 catcher type escort vessel, and
    tug or lighter appeared in lagoon, 1000 yards
    north of Bititu Isle, well protected by barrier
    reef. Cargo ship appeared to be unloading.
    Had awnings rigged. No large buildings, mach-
    ine shops, etc., observed, other than dwellings
    in small village on Bititu Isle.

(b) Ocean Island.
    Lat 0-52S; Long 169-35E.
    Date: September 6, 1942.
    Time: 1300 to 1900 L.

    Periscope observation from 3000 yards southwest
    Home Bay harbor. No shipping or small craft in
    the harbor. No activity or new construction
    noted. Buildings in city at Home Bay appeared
    modern, and well kept. No positive determinatio
    that island in Japanese hands. Flags not display-
    ed on several prominent flagpoles. City appeared
    deserted.

(c) Nauru Island.
    Lat 0-31S; Long 166-56E.
    Date: September 7, 1942.
    Time: 0500 to 1200 M.

- 17 -
ENCLOSURE "B"

— page 22 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. "ALBACORE" - Report of First War Patrol.

Periscope observation from 2000 yards west Boat
Harbor. No shipping or small craft present.
The waterfront deserted and no activity obser-
ved. No new construction in view along water-
front in the small village fronting Boat harbor.
While approaching the island before daybreak a
light similar in appearance to a landing field
flood light flashed on momentarily on the north
central part of the island. Estimate field to
be at about Lat 0-30-45N; Long 166-56-15E (Chart
2179). Upon surfacing about 12 miles west of
island forced to submerge again within 30 min-
utes by a black observation land plane, similar
to Japanese planes later seen flying over Truk
Islands.

(d) Truk Harbor.
Lat 7-21N; Long 151-53E.
Date: September 27, 1942.
Time: 0700 to 1400 K.

Periscope observation from 9 miles east outside
barrier reef. One cargo ship at anchor in road-
stead south of Dublon island. One cargo ship
approaching anchorage from between Moen and
Dublon islands. No warships in sight. Much
smoke observed arising from the Base south side
Dublon Isle. Gun emplacements indicated atop
Fefan and Uman Islands. Large tower on summit
of Uman Isle. Landing field indicated by low
flying planes on west side of Moen Isle.

(e) Ujelang Atoll.
Lat 9-46N; Long 160-58E.
Date: October 14, 1942.
Time: 0500 to 1800 L.

Periscope observation from 3 miles east Ujelang
Isle. No activity of any description observed.
A typical low, heavily wooded south sea island,
with small village of about 6 houses on main
island of Ujelang on lagoon side. No shipping
or small craft in lagoon. No planes, mooring
buoys or piers on island.

- 18 - ENCLOSURE "B"

— page 36 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of First War Patrol.

XIV FUEL OIL EXPENDED

    (a) Pearl to Station: 38,662
    (b) Station to Midway: 24,010
                                Total 62,672
    (c) On Station: 19,265
                                Total 81,877

XV FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

    (a) Torpedoes: 10
    (b) Fuel: 11,556 gallons
    (c) Provisions: 25 Days (dry stores)
                    5 Days (fresh meat)
    (d) Personnel: 10 Days
    (e) Fresh water: Unlimited

XVI FACTORS OF ENDURANCE WHICH CAUSED ENDING THIS PATROL

    The patrol was ended in accordance with date
    prescribed by the operation order.

    Fuel remaining would have necessitated ending
    the patrol in about 5 additional days in order
    to reach Midway with a small fuel reserve.

XVII REMARKS

    The commanding officer wishes to commend the
    officers and entire enlisted personnel. With
    the exception of one officer, this was the
    first war patrol for all hands. The morale
    was excellent, the alertness, attention and
    performance of duties was outstanding.

    Consider the installation of some form of radio
    broadcast receiver almost a military necessity.
    This ship has none. Awaiting delivery of the
    BuShips Model RBO receiver. Believe current
    news is of vital importance to provide a topic
    of conversation and intelligently estimate the
    situation as it affects the area.

- 32 - ENCLOSURE "B"

— page 38 —
F85-81/A16-3/ COMMANDER SUBMARINE DIVISION EIGHTY-ONE
(SS218)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial (044) San Francisco, California,
CONFIDENTIAL October 22, 1942.

From: The Commander Submarine Division EIGHTY ONE.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218) - First War Patrol:
Report of.

Reference: (a) Comsubfor Conf. ltr. 12-42.
(b) Comsubfor Patrol Report No. 48.

1. The first war patrol of the ALBACORE was well conducted.
The flat glassy seas encountered in this area at this time of year,
again proved to be a definite hinderance in making successful daylight
submerged attacks. On three of the five daylight contacts developed
the enemy discovered the presence of the submarine and maneuvered to
avoid. It is regretted that a larger percentage of hits was not
obtained and it is believed that the average firing range of 1350
yards is to a large extent the reason.

2. The reconnaissance of TARAMA ISLAND, OCEAN ISLAND,
NAURU, TRUK HARBOR, UJELANG ATOLL, and ERIETOK ATOLL, was well con-
ducted and the information obtained should prove of future value.

3. The commanding officer has been directed to submit a
"prologue" together with additional information required by reference
(a) in order to make his report conform with the latest instructions.

4. The following remarks relative to the ALBACORE'S
torpedo attacks are submitted in accordance with reference (b):

ATTACK NO. 1
Daylight, periscope depth. Abandoned due to small size of
target.

ATTACK NO. 2
Daylight, periscope depth, three torpedoes fired at first vessel
two torpedoes fired at second vessel; one or two hits on first
vessel, no hits on second vessel. It is believed that the second
vessel maneuvered to avoid as soon as the first vessel was hit.
Firing range 1400 yards on first vessel - 2000 yards on second
vessel.

- 1 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 39 —
FB5-81/A16-3/ COMMANDER SUBMARINE DIVISION EIGHTY-ONE
(SS218)

Serial (044) Date of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California.
CONFIDENTIAL October 22, 1942.

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218) - First War Patrol;
Report of.

ATTACK NO. 3

Daylight, periscope depth, no torpedoes fired. The target (sub-
marine) discovered ALBACORE and made a radical change of course to
close when at 1800 yards range. Enemy dove before ALBACORE could
maneuver for favorable track angle.

ATTACK NO. 4

Surface, night, seven torpedoes fired, two hits. No information
is available as to why the first two torpedoes fired did not hit.
The second two torpedoes fired hit from a greater range with no
change in estimated target speed. The fifth torpedo was fired and
missed at a closer range but enemy speed was estimated two knots
less. In all probability the target had increased speed as was
observed to be making fifteen knots at a later time. The last two
torpedoes fired missed in all probability due to errors in range
and speed and the unfavorable track angle employed.

ATTACK NO. 5

Daylight, periscope depth, no torpedoes fired. This contact was
against a ZUIKAKU class carrier escorted by a cruiser, destroyer,
and air screen. The ALBACORE was sighted by the air screen when
8000 yards away from the carrier. The carrier turned away at
high speed.

ATTACK NO. 6

Daylight, periscope depth, two torpedoes fired, one hit. The
first torpedo fired missed due to an error in estimated enemy
speed. The second torpedo hit. It is regretted that additional
observations were not made to determine whether the target sank,
or in case the target was slowed by damage, that the attack was
not continued.

- 2 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 40 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET Gt
Serial 01266
Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California.
CONFIDENTIAL
November 6, 1942.

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 86 [STAMP: 71817]
U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218) - FIRST
WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218) - Report of First War
Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Comsubdiv Cl conf. ltr. FF5-81/A16-3(SS218)
Serial 044 of October 22, 1942.
(B) Subject patrol report.

1. The report of the U.S.S. ALBACORE's first War
Patrol contains reconnaissance information of TAROA and OCEAN
ISLANDS, NAURU, TRUK HARBOR, and UJELANG and ELT YOR ATOLL
which should be of value for future planning and operations. The
percentage of torpedo hits obtained by the ALBACORE on this pat-
rol is not impressive. This percentage should increase with the
increase in experience and training of officers and crew.

2. Once during and once following an attack, the
ALBACORE lost depth control which prevented accurate observation
of the results of the attack. Special attention should be given
to the matter of depth control, following torpedo fire, to pre-
vent broaching.

3. As there is no conclusive evidence that any of
the ships which were attacked actually sank, the ALBACORE is
credited with having inflicted the following damage on the enemy:

DAMAGED
1 Freighter - 8,000 tons
1 Tanker - 6,000 tons
1 Cargo Vessel - 4,000 tons
TOTAL - 18,000 tons

[STAMP: DESTROYED]
Distribution: [HANDWRITTEN: R.H. TULLY]
(350-42) [STAMP: RECEIVED]
List III: JS
Special: [HANDWRITTEN: Finished-Nunn-File] [STAMP: NOV 24 1942]
Pl(5), EN 3(5), Z1(5) [HANDWRITTEN: KUBIC 10-10-11]
Comsublant (2)
Comsubssowspac (2) [HANDWRITTEN: (In File No. SDAL/A16-3(SS218))]
[SIGNATURE: E.R. STURIE] [HANDWRITTEN: By W.]
E.R. STURIE,
Flag Secretary. [HANDWRITTEN: (SC)] [HANDWRITTEN: 4/26/43]
[HANDWRITTEN: A16-3(SS218)/SS218]

— page 41 —
DECLASSIFIED
[STRUCK THROUGH: CONFIDENTIAL]
A16/075

U. S. S. ALBACORE (SS218)
c/o Postmaster,
San Francisco, Calif.
December 30, 1942.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander SUBMARINE Force, 42
TASK
Via :

Subject: War Patrol Report.

Reference: (a) Comsubpac Confidential letter
No. 12-42.

Enclosure: (A) U.S.S.ALBACORE (SS218), Second War
Patrol Report.

1. In accordance with reference (a) enclosure
(A) is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: R. C. Lake]
R. C. LAKE.

Copies to-----
Comsubfor.
ComsubforsoWespac.
Comsubron 6B.
Cominch CBI.

— page 42 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of Second War Patrol.

Period from November 11, 1942, to December 30, 1942.

(1) Area: - Roger Operation Order: Comsubpac despatch
St. George's 092052 of November,
Channel, New as amplified by
Britain. Comsubpac despatch
081723 of November,
and Comsubsowespac
despatch subs 42
serial 44 afirm.

(2) Area - Eastern Operation Order: Comsubsowespac des-
Coast New Guinea patch subs serial
to Vitiaz Strait. 58 afirm.

(3) Area - Dallmann Operation Order: Comsubsowespac des-
Pass off Madang patch subs serial
Harbor, New Guinea. 80 afirm.

PROLOGUE

Arrived Midway, T.H., on October 20, 1942, from
First War Patrol. Commenced refit on October 21, 1942, by
Submarine Base personnel assisted by Submarine Division
EIGHTY ONE Repair Unit. Completed refit on November 10,
1942. Major item: 20 m.m. gun installation. Readiness for
sea on November 10, 1942. Not depermed or wiped; one day
of training and test on November 8, 1942.

I NARRATIVE

November 11, Departed Midway for patrol area, es-
0755 Y. corted by U.S.S. BERYL and aircraft
until 1100 Y. Made trim dive and held
general drills at 1252 Y, and set Base
Course 233° T. speed 13 knots on two
engines.

November 12 to Underway on surface, enroute assigned
November 18. area, holding training dives at dawn
and dusk daily.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 43 —
CONFIDENTIAL
SUBJECT: U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of Second
         War Patrol.

November 18, Operational command passed from Com-
1100 L. subpac to ComsubsoWespac.

November 20, Made quick dive for trim and remained
0449 K. submerged throughout day to train 18
         new crew members. Held general drills.

November 21. Lat 3-45S; Long 154-30E. Sighted a for-
0830 K. mation of seven bombers crossing ahead
         from starboard to port, distance ten
         (10) miles. Made quick dive and remain-
         ed submerged throughout day to approach
         area undetected.

November 22, On station in assigned area. Due to prox-
2300 K. imity to Rabaul decided on submerged
         patrol by day and on surface at night.

November 23. Received CTF 42 serial 52 afirm and 54
         advising area changes and pros-
         pective targets.

November 24, Lat 4-40S; Long 152-35E. Sighted plane,
0945 K. similar our PBY's, on course to Rabaul,
         distance seven (7) miles.

1830 K. Heard three (3) loud but distant explo-
         sions. Nothing sighted by periscope.

1843 K. Surfaced. Lat 4-45S; Long 152-40E. S.J.
         contact of 19,000 yards, 270° T. as this
         was about 10,000 yards short of the
         rocky coastline from our charted posit-
         ion changed course 270° T. to investi-
         gate.

1947 K. Sound heard pinging on bearing 035 de-
         grees relative. Nothing sighted and be-
         lieve it was a submarine.

2000 K. Sighted two (2) ships (Cargo and escort)
         bearing 255 degrees relative, range 5
         miles on northerly course, close to east-
         ern coastline of New Britain. As visibi-
         lity was excellent in bright moonlight

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 44 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of Second
                                        War Patrol.

— page 49 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:                                U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of Second
                                        War Patrol.

                                        overheard and maintain S.J. radar con-
                                        tact, swinging left with targets bear-
                                        ing on sound from 330 to 010 degrees
                                        relative.

2311 K.                                 Fired three (3) torpedoes, bow shot,
                                        on sound bearing 324° relative, esti-
                                        mated range 2000 yards. Miss.

2312 K.                                 Sound tracking torpedoes on 288 de-
                                        grees relative.

2313 K.                                 Sound picked up torpedo screws on 090
                                        degrees relative. Assumed to be enemy
                                        torpedo or possible erratic circular
                                        run of our own, although not tracked
                                        around to this bearing. Dove to 120
                                        feet to avoid.

2316 K.                                 Two loud explosions. Not close and
                                        estimate either depth charges or
                                        bombs.

2322 K.                                 Periscope depth and enemy not in
                                        sight. Surfaced and put four (4)
                                        engines on propulsion, trailing tar-
                                        get in direction of Buna. Course
                                        180 degrees true.

2356 K.                                 Lat 6-48S; Long 148-24E. S.D. radar
                                        plane contact at six (6) miles de-
                                        creasing in range to four (4) miles.
                                        Dove for twenty (20) minutes.

December 14,                            Surfaced and proceeding at full speed
0015 K.                                 on four (4) engines, course 180 de-
                                        grees true.

0100 K.                                 Abandoned pursuit of targets. Repeat-
                                        ed plane contacts indicate planes are

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 58 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject:                               U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of Second
                                       War Patrol.

— page 62 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject:                               U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of Second
                                       War Patrol.

— page 63 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject:                               U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of Second
                                       War Patrol.

— page 69 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE - Report of Second
War Patrol.

These two targets were lying to when
sighted by periscope, and commenced a
submerged periscope approach, range
8000 yards. Targets were pinging cons-
tantly and ALBACORE was detected by
sound, range about 3000 yards. Sub-
chaser turned toward ship at high
speed. Fired two torpedoes, bow shots,
right 36 degree gyro angle, at destroy-
er which still remained dead in the
water. Range 3000 yards. Miss. Depth
charged for an hour by subchaser and
continued search by pinging on sound
gear at 19 KC's. Targets not in sight
upon surfacing at 0105 K on 19 Decem-
ber. An unexplained explosion, similar
to a torpedo detonation occurred 10
seconds after firing the first torpedo.

VIII ENEMY A/S MEASURES.

(a) Date: November 24, 1942.
Time: 2057 K.
Following the attack on the cargo vess-
el, the escort vessel turned toward the
ship and dropped 3 depth charges singly
spaced, over a period of one hour, while
searching for the ALBACORE. None close
and no damage.

(b) Date: November 25, 1942.
Time: 1158 K.
While patrolling submerged off Adler
Bay, New Britain, sound picked up two
sets of screws. One on 175 degrees re-
lative and the other on 220 degrees
relative. Both did some intermittent
pinging on 19 KC's. Nothing sighted
and assumed were submarines patrolling
near that point.

(c) Date: November 26, 1942.
Time: 2217 K.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 78 —
SUMMARY OF SUBMARINE ATTACKS
U. S. SHIP ALBACORE

| | (1) | (2) | (3) | (4) | (5) | (6) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attack Z.T. (-10) | [HANDWRITTEN: 2057] | [HANDWRITTEN: 2251] | [HANDWRITTEN: 2112] | [HANDWRITTEN: 2352] | | |
| Date | [HANDWRITTEN: 1942] | [HANDWRITTEN: Nov 27] | [HANDWRITTEN: Dec 13] | [HANDWRITTEN: Dec 18] | [HANDWRITTEN: Dec 18] | | |
| Location (Lat.) | | [HANDWRITTEN: 4-45S] | [HANDWRITTEN: 5-04S] | [HANDWRITTEN: 5-09S] | [HANDWRITTEN: 5-12S] | | |
| (Long.) | | [HANDWRITTEN: 152-25E] | [HANDWRITTEN: 148-29E] | [HANDWRITTEN: 145-06E] | [HANDWRITTEN: 140-56E] | | |
| Torpedoes Fired on each Attack | | [HANDWRITTEN: 2] | [HANDWRITTEN: 3] | [HANDWRITTEN: 4] | [HANDWRITTEN: 2] | | |
| Hits | | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | [HANDWRITTEN: 1] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | | |
| Number Sunk (Tonnage) | | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | [HANDWRITTEN: 1-6000 Ton] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | | |
| Number Damaged or probably sunk | | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | | |
| Type of Target | | [HANDWRITTEN: RANGE 1500 YARDS OR LESS] | [HANDWRITTEN: TYPE OF TARGET ESCORT] | [HANDWRITTEN: TRANSPORT X DD] | [HANDWRITTEN: DD WITH SUBCHASER] | | |
| Range 1500 Yards or Less | | [HANDWRITTEN: 1200] | [HANDWRITTEN: 2000] | [HANDWRITTEN: 2000] | [HANDWRITTEN: 3000] | | |
| Range More Than 1500 Yards | | [HANDWRITTEN: -] | [HANDWRITTEN: -] | [HANDWRITTEN: -] | [HANDWRITTEN: -] | | |
| Periscope Depth | | [HANDWRITTEN: Yes] | [HANDWRITTEN: Yes] | [HANDWRITTEN: Yes] | [HANDWRITTEN: Yes] | | |
| Surface Night | | [HANDWRITTEN: NIGHT] | [HANDWRITTEN: NIGHT] | [HANDWRITTEN: NIGHT] | [HANDWRITTEN: NIGHT] | | |
| Deep Submergence Estimated | | [HANDWRITTEN: -] | [HANDWRITTEN: -] | [HANDWRITTEN: -] | [HANDWRITTEN: -] | | |
| Draft Target | | [HANDWRITTEN: 15 FT] | [HANDWRITTEN: 15 FT] | [HANDWRITTEN: 15 FT] | [HANDWRITTEN: 10 FT] | | |
| Torpedo Depth Setting | | [HANDWRITTEN: 5 FT] | [HANDWRITTEN: 5 FT] | [HANDWRITTEN: 5 FT] | [HANDWRITTEN: 5 FT] | | |
| Bow or Stern Shot | | [HANDWRITTEN: STERN] | [HANDWRITTEN: Bow] | [HANDWRITTEN: Bow] | [HANDWRITTEN: Bow] | | |
| Track Angle | | [HANDWRITTEN: 177 P] | [HANDWRITTEN: 135 P] | [HANDWRITTEN: 105 P] | [HANDWRITTEN: 110 P] | | |
| Gyro Angle | | [HANDWRITTEN: 180] | [HANDWRITTEN: 279] | [HANDWRITTEN: 346] | [HANDWRITTEN: 036] | | |
| Estimated Target Speed | | [HANDWRITTEN: 12] | [HANDWRITTEN: 26] | [HANDWRITTEN: 11-15] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | | |
| Firing Interval | | [HANDWRITTEN: 14 Sec] | [HANDWRITTEN: 15 Sec] | [HANDWRITTEN: 3-4-70] | [HANDWRITTEN: 13] | | |
| Spread - Amount and Kind | | [HANDWRITTEN: 1° Div] | [HANDWRITTEN: 2° Div] | [HANDWRITTEN: 1.5 Knt Spe] | [HANDWRITTEN: 0] | | |
| Remarks: | | | | | | | |

Note: This form is to be submitted by each submarine with the narrative of war operations. May be submitted in rough.

— page 79 —
FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Pk
Serial 00205
S-E-C-R-E-T

From: The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.
To : The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via : (1) The Commander, THIRD FLEET.
Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218), revision of damage
inflicted.
Reference: (a) CTF 42 SECRET Ltr. TF42/A16-3 Serial 00157
of Dec. 31, 1942.
(b) ONI Table J-I SECRET F-10 0003 of July 26,
1943.

1. Since the report of the Second War Patrol of the
U.S.S. ALBACORE was forwarded, information has been received
that points conclusively to the sinking of TENRYU, Japanese
light cruiser of 3,230 displacement tons, by ALBACORE on 18
December 1942 off Madang. ALBACORE was previously credited
with sinking a 6,000 ton freighter-transport on the same date.
Reference (b) credits ALBACORE with sinking TENRYU.

2. The ALBACORE made a successful submerged attack
on an escorted freighter-transport approaching Madang at 2213
Love, 18 December 1942. After evading depth-charge attack,
she saw what appeared to be a destroyer and smaller escort
lying in off the harbor. She made an approach on the destroy-
er. At an estimated range of 2,500 yards, ALBACORE was de-
tected by the small escort who started toward her. She
fired two torpedoes at the still stationary destroyer and
started deep to evade depth-charge attack. Two explosions
were heard, but as the interval from firing was several
seconds greater than the torpedo run estimated with destroy-
er masthead height, the explosions were considered not tor-
pedo hits but rather the start of a depth-charge attack
which followed immediately thereafter. No hits or damage
were assessed. It now appears certain that they were torpedo
hits, the greater masthead height of the cruiser accounting
for the increased torpedo run.

3. The sinking of the freighter-transport was con-
firmed by innumerable boxes, oil drums, and debris found
scattered over the area next day.

4. ALBACORE is now credited with having inflicted
the following damage on the enemy during her Second War
Patrol:

- 1 -
TASK FORCE SEVENTY-TWO,
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,

7 October 1943.
11 68

— page 80 —
FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Pk

Serial 00205

S-E-C-R-E-T
Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218), revision of damage
           inflicted.

— page 81 —
[STAMP: Reg. No. OM 32/91.....]
[HANDWRITTEN: 11 68]
[STAMP: R.S. No.]

COMSOPAC FILE

A16-3/(11)

Serial 002220

S-E-C-R-E-T

SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
OF THE UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET
HEADQUARTERS OF THE COMMANDER

ejh

20 OCT 1943

1st Endorsement on
CTF 72 Secret ltr.
FF12-15(72)A16-3/Pk
Serial 00205 dated
7 October 1943.

From: The Commander South Pacific.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.

Subject: USS ALBACORE (SS218), Revision of Damage
Inflicted.

1. Forwarded.

[SIGNATURE: R.B. Carney]
ROBT. B. CARNEY,
Chief of Staff.

[STAMP: COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF]
[STAMP: FLAG OFFICE]
[STAMP: RECEIVED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1943 NOV 2 11 51]

— page 82 —
[HANDWRITTEN: action 18 Dec 1942]

FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Pk
Serial 00205
S-E-C-R-E-T

From: The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.
To : The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via : (1) The Commander, THIRD FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218), revision of damage
inflicted.

Reference: (a) CTF 42 SECRET Ltr. TF42/A16-3 Serial 00157
of Dec. 31, 1942.
(b) ONI Bull. J-I SECRET F-10 0003 of July 26,
1943.

1. Since the report of the Second War Patrol of the
U.S.S. ALBACORE was forwarded, information has been received
that points conclusively to the sinking of TENRYU, Japanese
light cruiser of 3,230 displacement tons, by ALBACORE on 18
December 1942 off Madang. ALBACORE was previously credited
with sinking a 6,000 ton freighter-transport on the same date.
Reference (b) credits ALBACORE with sinking TENRYU.

2. The ALBACORE made a successful submerged attack
on an escorted freighter-transport approaching Madang at 2213
Love, 18 December 1942. After evading depth-charge attack,
she saw what appeared to be a destroyer and smaller escort
lying to off the harbor. She made an approach on the destroy-
er. At an estimated range of 2,500 yards, ALBACORE was de-
tected by the small escort, who started toward her. She
fired two torpedoes at the still stationary destroyer and
started deep to evade depth-charge attack. Two explosions
were heard, but as the interval from firing was several
seconds greater than the torpedo run estimated with destroy-
er masthead height, the explosions were considered not tor-
pedo hits but rather the start of a depth-charge attack
which followed immediately thereafter. No hits or damage
were assessed. It now appears certain that they were torpedo
hits, the greater masthead height of the cruiser accounting
for the increased torpedo run.

3. The sinking of the freighter-transport was con-
firmed by innumerable boxes, oil drums, and debris found
scattered over the area next day.

4. ALBACORE is now credited with having inflicted
the following damage on the enemy during her Second War
Patrol:

- 1 -
TASK FORCE SEVENTY-TWO,
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,

7 October 1943.

— page 83 —
FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Pk
Serial [HANDWRITTEN: 00205]
S-E-C-R-E-T
Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218), revision of damage
           inflicted.

                                                TASK FORCE SEVENTY-TWO,
                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                San Francisco, California.

                                                7 October 1943.

                                                (32218), revision of damage
                                                inflicted.

— page 84 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED - DOD DIR. 5200.9]
[STAMP: of 27 Sep 58]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY 926] [HANDWRITTEN: DATE 4/14/71]

[STAMP: C-O DECLASSIFIED L]

U.S.S. ALBACORE
THIRD WAR PATROL

FROM: January 20, 1943. TO: March 11, 1943.

NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SEA BY SUBMARINES - BURN

[HANDWRITTEN: 48149]
[STAMP: FILMED]
ENCLOSURE (A)
[HANDWRITTEN: mo]

— page 85 —
[HANDWRITTEN: CSA 72]

SS218/A16                               U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218)

Serial (01)                             Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                        San Francisco, California,
CONFIDENTIAL                            March 11, 1943.

From:                                   The Commanding Officer.
To :                                    The Commander Task Force, FORTY TWO.
Via :                                   The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHT.

Subject:                                U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218) - Report of
                                        Third War Patrol.

Enclosure:                              (A) Stencils of Third War Patrol Report-
                                        Track Charts and Time Plots.

1.                                      Enclosure (A) is forwarded herewith.

                                        [SIGNATURE: R.C. Lake]
                                        R.C. LAKE.

— page 86 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218) - Report of
         Third War Patrol.

         Returned from second War Patrol on 30
December 1942. Moored alongside U.S.S. FULTON, Brisbane,
Australia for refit. Refit started 31 December 1942. Com-
pleted 19 January 1943. Major items accomplished:
Complete overhaul #1 and 2 main engines.
Degaussing measured 19 January. Not wiped or depermed.
Underway for Third Patrol at 0910 L on 20 January 1943,
with instructions to maintain patrol ADMIRALTY ISLES -
MUSSAU ISLE area from 29 January as directed by ComTask
Force Forty Two Operation Order No. S5-43 of 19 January,
1943. All times zone L (-11).

NARRATIVE

20 January

0910 Departed Brisbane, Australia for patrol area; pilot
     aboard.

1120 Submerged off PILE LIGHT for sound test.

1316 Surfaced; proceeded to CALOUNDRA HEAD.

1600 Dropped pilot, stood out swept channel at 1/3 speed.

1817 Made rendezvous with U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT for escort
     and services.

1947 Made trim dive. No leaks.

2055 Made night rehearsal attacks on RALPH TALBOT. Full
     moon. Reported as visible 3000 yards on surface,
     3000 yards with SJ Radar out 6 feet.

2241 Surfaced. Proceeding on course 032° T at 8 knots,
     changing oil in reduction gears.
     Noon posit: 27-25S; 153-22E.
     Miles steamed: 130.
     Fuel used: 1060 gals.

21 January

Underway, course 032° T., speed 8 knots.

-1-                                        ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 94 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218) - Report of
         Third War Patrol.

         NARRATIVE (Continued)

0425     Sighted distant search light beams and indi-
         cations of bombing attack on RABAUL.

0604     Dove for submerged patrol in St. George's
         Channel, periscope depth.

1118     Heard distant explosions. Nothing sighted
         by periscope.

1316     Lat. 04-59 S; 152-59 E. Sighted Navy
         biplane pontoon observation plane, distance
         6 miles on course 150° T. Not sighted.

2003     Surfaced. Course 052° T., standard speed
         14 knots, two engines clearing Area Roger-
         Zed in accordance CTF 42 Serial 95 Baker.

2230     Sighted ANCHORITE ISLE, 007° distance 25 miles.
         Noon posit: 5-01 S; 152-50 E.
         Miles steamed: 116.
         Fuel used: 1203 gals.

         31 January

         Underway enroute station, course 052° T,
         speed 14 knots, two engines.

0040     Sighted GREEN ISLE, 112° T. distance
         20 miles.

0100     Changed course to 000°T., zig-zagging.

0457     Sighted two objects believed to be ships
         060° relative distance 10,000 yards on
         estimated course 130° T. Because of bright
         moonlight and SJ radar out of commission
         decided to reverse course and gain position
         ahead of targets for submerged attack at
         dawn. Four engine speed, course 160° T. at
         0507.

                                 -9-
                                                 ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 130 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:         U.S.S ALBACORE (SS218) - Report of
                 Third War Patrol.

— page 138 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS218) - Report of
Third War Patrol.

V. DESCRIPTION OF ALL ENEMY WARSHIPS,
   MERCHANT VESSELS, ETC. (Continued)

(11) Date: 2/24/43.
     Time: 1040 L.
     Position: Lat. 00-25 S; Long. 147-21 E.
     Course: 140.
     Speed: 7.5 knots.
     Description:
       Three Jap AK's and three subchasers.
       Masthead height estimate: 90 feet.
       Length: 450 feet.
       Range at first sighting: 16,000 yards.
       Disposition: Two subchasers in front of
       formation, 3,000 yards. AK's in line of
       bearing almost 90-270. One subchaser
       astern. Turn count of subchaser, 320
       R.P.M. Occasionally stopped to listen.
       Patrolled across front of formation and
       wide on bow. One astern same tactics.
       Picked up by listening. Depth charged.
       Range to target 6,000-7,000 yards.

(12) Date: 2/24/43.
     Time: 1450 L.
     Position: Lat. 00-18 S; Long 147-20 E.
     Course: 240.
     Speed: 7.5 knots.
     Description:
       Jap AK, similar to HOKKO MARU, O.N.I. -208,
       page 216 and three subchasers.
       Masthead height estimate: 90 feet.
       Length: 400 feet.
       Range at first sighting: 18,000 yards.
       Disposition: One subchaser ahead about
       3000 yards. Other two on beam about
       2000 yards. Did not apparently stop to listen
       but pinged continuously. Turn count sub-
       chaser 160 R.P.M. Could not pick up
       screws of AK.

-53- ENCLOSURE (A)