U.S.S. ATULE (SS-403) — war patrol report SS-403_ATULE.pdf

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This microfilm is the property of the United States Government

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO—NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

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35-12N
WWII PATROL FILE
FOR DECK LOGS JUNE 1944 - DECEMBER 1945
CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES WHICH HAS CUSTODY.

ALL MATERIAL ON THIS RECEIPT IS DEASSESSIFIED

J.A. KOMITZ

— page 3 —
1959
REPRINT WITH CORRECTIONS 1970

NAVY DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
NAVAL HISTORY DIVISION • WASHINGTON

— page 6 —
55403/AL6/A9
Serial 013

DECLASSIFIED

From: The Commanding Officer,
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) Commander Submarine Division ONE FORTY TWO.
(2) Commander Submarine Squadron FOURTEEN.
(3) Commander Submarines, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. ATULIS (SS403) - Report of "War Patrol
Number ONE.

Enclosures: (A) Subject report.
(B) Track chart of subject patrol.
(C) to (F) inclusive - Navigational time plots of
attacks.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol of this
vessel conducted in the Luzon Straits - South China Sea Area during
the period 9 October 1944 to 11 December 1944 is forwarded herewith.

2. Enclosures (B) to (F) inclusive are forwarded to
Commander Submarines, United States Pacific Fleet only.

J.H. HARRIS
J

— page 7 —
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

**TRAINING PERIOD NOTES:**
Two days operations at Portsmouth, N.H. were lost due to fog, all other training was solid as scheduled. The months operations on the East Coast followed plan, with special emphasis on diving procedure due marked inexperience of all officers except C.O. and Executive Officer. Enroute Pacific Area, The ANUE was assigned a fifteen day period at Key West, Florida for availability with Fleet Sound School. Such valuable diving experience was gained and two shore bombardment practices were valuable training for gun crew and gun fire control party. Voyage in company with NAILAO from Panama to Pearl Harbor was one of most worthwhile training schedules. Flight surface, Radar depth, and Submerged a attacks were conducted daily; lookouts were indoctrinated in sighting periscopes, ships at night and on horizon during daylight, in-experienced signalmen were sending and receiving day and night, Radar Tracking Parties improved 100% during trip. The post voyage repair training at Pearl Harbor followed a modified plan of two five day operating periods with a one day break in the middle. He had been able to fire only four torpedoes during training runs prior to arrival at Pearl Harbor; the additional nine firing runs were most welcome in topping off our training. The following is a brief summary of the Training Runs:

| Ports | N.L. | Enroute P.H. | At P.H. | Total |
|-------|------|||-------|
| Z Runs| 18   | 15           | 10      | 24    | 67    |
| Z Firsings | --  | 3            | --      | 6     | 9     |
| Day Radar | 13  | 9            | 6       | 13    | 41    |
| Light Radar | 4  | 4            | 16      | 7     | 31    |
| Radar Firings | --  | 1            | --      | 3     | 4     |
| Radar Tracking | 6  | 8            | 16      | 3     | 33    |
| (1 hr. periods) | 4  | 4            | --      | 7     | 15    |

**MAJOR ITES ACCOMPLISHED NEW LOADING:**
1. Own speed halving device in TDC.
2. Shifted antennae forward to clear gun.

**MAJOR ITES ACCOMPLISHED PEARL:**
1. Installed VHF.
2. Installed A.P.R.
3. Removed torpedo tube outboard vents.
4. Installed control room booster ventilation blower.
5. Installed main engine cooling down pumps.
6. Renewed all main motor brushes and reset rigging.
7. Installed DRT.
8. Installed keying circuit in SJ Radar.
9. Installed topside, 50 cal. machine gun stowages and mounts.
10. Installed range doubler unit in TDC.

— page 8 —
9 October 1944
1335 W/ - Underway from Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor.
1624 W/ - Trim dive - Drills - Deep Submergence.
1728 W/ - Surfaced. Formed scouting line normal to course (R. to L - ATULE, PINTADO, JALAC).
1858 W/ - Plane sighting.

10 October 1944
0325 W/ - SD contact 8 miles.
0800 W/ - Set clocks back ½ hour to 0730 W. Zone 7 10 time.
1416 W/ - Periscope aircraft sighting - PBN.
1421 W/ - Lookout sighted - B-24.
Made several training dives during day.

11 October 1944
0115 W - Surface (SJ) Radar out of commission.
0215 W - Surface radar in commission.
0217 W - Radar contact 0405 T., 4770 yards, Battle Stations Torpedo. Thus started a most beneficial chase of what turned out to be friendly submarines enroute Pearl Harbor (PLAICE AID THRESHER). Turned toward and commenced tracking. Established base course 115° speed 15 knots. Sent contact to CombatFrack and commenced end around at full power keeping him in moon path at 8 to 9 thousand yards. Secured from Battle Stations; Sent report to ConsSubFrac. Intermittent Radar interference was noted but characteristics could not be definitely identified as similar to our SJ.
0454 W - With target abeam at 8250 yards, lost contact - suspecting dive.
0515 W - Regained contact and picked up another contact ahead.
0548 W - Began to count radar, so turned toward beam target; went to Battle Stations and headed for to check my eyesight.

— page 9 —
1335 W-I - Underway from Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor.
: 1624 W - Trim dive - Drills - Deep Submergence.
: 1728 W-I - Surfacad, Formed scouting line normal to course (E. to L - ATUEL, PINTADO, JALIAO).
: 1358 W-I - Plane sighting.

10 October 1944

: 0325 W-I - SD contact 8 miles.
: 0800 W-I - Set clocks back 2 hour to 0730 W. Zone 4 10 time.
: 1416 W - Periscope aircraft sighting - PBNI.
: 1421 W - Lookout sighted - B-24.

11 October 1944

: 0115 W - Surface (SJ) Radar out of commission.
: 0215 W - Surface radar in commission.
: 0217 W - Radar contact 0400 T., 4770 yards, Battle Stations Torpedo. Thus started a most beneficial chase of what turned out to be friendly submarines enroute Pearl Harbor (FLAICE AD THRESHER). Turned toward and commenced tracking. Established base course 1150 speed 15 knots. Sent contact to ControlFleet and commenced end around at full power keeping him in moon path at 8 to 9 thousand yards. Secured from Battle Stations; Sent report to ConsubFaca. Intermittent Radar interference was noted but characteristics could not be definitely identified as similar to our SJ.

: 0454 W - With target abeam at 8250 yards, lost contact - suspecting dive.
: 0515 W - Regained contact and picked up another contact ahead.
: 0548 W - Began to count radar, so turned toward beam target; went to Battle Stations and headed for to check my eyesight.

— page 10 —
0-0-1-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D)

11. October 1944 (Cont'd)
0554 7 - Signed sub head at 4150 yards. Just then ComSubSpac came through with news on THRISHER and PLAICE so challenged by light and surprised THRISHER who, I am sure, thought we were PLAICE during entire proceedings.

0604 7 - Secured from Battle Stations and set course for rendezvous with Pack. Sent them and ComSubSpac the results of our labors. It was best training end around to date.

1235 7 - Dive.

1354 7 - Surfaced.

1600 7 - Set clocks back 1 hour to zone 4 11 (Xray) time.

12 October 1944
Made several training dives, held gun, fire control, and emergency drills.

2000 X - Set clocks back 1 hour to zone 12 (Yoke) time.

13 October 1944
Made five training dives to test depth, held fire control and emergency drills, made battle surface, exercised #1 Radar Tracking Party for one hour.

2400 Y - Set clocks ahead 24 hours to 0000 15 October. Skip Sunday 14 October.

15 October 1944
0411 X - Fire in After Battery - Fan short circuit - no damage.

Made four day and night training dives, held fire control drill and exercised #2 Radar 'tracking Party for one hour.

1600 X - Set clocks back 1 hour to zone -11 time (1).

— page 11 —
16 October 1944
C-0-H-F-I-D-E-I-T-I-L
0125 L - SJ out of commission.
0300 L - SJ in commission.
Made three training dives, held fire control drill and exercised #1 Radar Tracking Party for one hour.

17 October 1944
Made three training dives during morning.
1500 L - Rear Tracking - #1 Party.
1556 L - Dive, Approach on FINADO.
1620 L - Battle Surface.

18 October 1944
0542 L - Dive.
0606 L - Surface, 17 knots, 4 engines during daylight as antidote for possible sub reported by HALIBUT.
1203 L - Dive on plane sighting at 6 miles heading toward - PBH
1228 L - Surfaced, all clear.
1743 L - Dive.
1752 L - Surface.

19 October 1944
Made two training dives during day, held fire control drill.
1136 L - Sugar Dog contact 30 miles. Did not close - not sighted. #R indication about 1000 ID.

20 October 1944
Made three training dives during day, held fire control drill.
0920 L - #1 Periscope cable badly fouled.
0925 L - Lookout sighted PBH at 12 miles. Did not close.
1140 L - #1 Periscope back in commission.

— page 12 —
20 October 1944
1200 L - Set all clocks back 1 hour to -10(K).
2320 K - SJ contact 36 miles on Sarigan Island.
2343 K - SJ contact at 40 miles on Anataban Island.

21 October 1944
0028 K - SD land contact 22 miles.
0050 K - SD land contact 20 miles. Both Islands in sight.
0445 K - Radar contact on Escort PGH #9 - 6000 yards. Formed up astern PENTADO heading for Saipan.
0958 K - Pilot boarded.
1035 K - Hoored alongside PENTADO starboard side USS FULTON in Tanapag harbor, Saipan. JULIAO came alongside, Fueled, minor repairs, saw the sights on the Island. Beer Party for 12h.
1025 K - Last conference on area Patrol Procedure, and disposition.
1040 K - Set clocks back 1 hour to -9 zone (I).

22 October 1944
0921 I - Underway JULIAO, JULIE, PENTADO. Escort PGH #9.
1428 I - Trin Dive.
1503 I - Battle Surface.
1524 I - Escort departed, entered safety lane.

23 October 1944
0621 I - SD contact 18 miles. Closed to 4; not sighted.
0935 I - Passed U.S.S. BURBEL, had been told BURBEL was one day behind others.
1438 I - Dive.
1451 I - Surface.
1600 I - SD contact 12 miles.
1601 I - Sighted PB4Y.

— page 13 —
25. October 1944 (Cont'd)
SHIP CONTACT #1

2304 I - Radar contact 25,000 yards bearing 230° T. Came to that bearing, stationed tracking party and obtained:
2308 I - One bearing and range 23,950 yards. Smoke in sight.
2310 I - Tall spiral of black smoke from stack, Radar lost target slowly and control room watch and wardroom reported 3 explosions. The JULIUS had stolen the prize rooster.
2327 I - Closed PITIDO and JULIUS, got the story and instructions from Fock Commander for attempted interception of big boys needed North.
2328 I - 2 Explosions heard.
2332 I - 1 Explosion.

26 October 1944.

0025 I - Steadied on 04:50 to open out on PITIDO. Forming Scouting Line 090-270 on course north - 4 Eng's. Lots of fuel down the drain.
0906 I - Trim dive. Went deep for PT card.
0941 I - Surface.
1140 I - Arrived at 24° N limit of our search. Reversed course. This has been a letdown.
1520 I - Changed to 226° T to head for pre-assigned area in Iuzon Strait.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT #2

1730 I - Sighted BETTY or NELL bearing 100° T, distant 8 miles on course 345°, alt. 1000 ft. He turned toward. We dove at same time, sending warning to pack. No radar indication.
1751 I - Surfaced. All clear.
2124 I - SJ contact 40,000 yards on rain squall.

— page 14 —
27 October 1944

0612 I - Dive. Deep depth for BT card. [g° negative gradient.
0724 I - Surfaced.-
0746 I - Entered Lane at 125° E, came to 270° T.
1135 I - Sighted submarine thru periscope to South on course East. Closed; identified as U.S. (Later identified as SEA DRAGON).
1237 I - Sighted submarine thru periscope to North, course East. U.S. type. (Believe DRUH).
2014 I - SJ Radar contact on East Island, range 40 miles. Passed between East Is, and sailing Is. and entered assigned area at 2228 I.

28 October 1944

0634 I - Dive. [450V for BT card. Commenced continuous periscope patrol, listening on 3D mast on Peak frequency-first 5 min. each hour.

SHIP CONTACT # 2

1036 I - Sighted two identical minesweeps on course 200° T., speed 12, who passed 3500 yards astern and disappeared to South. No echo ranging.

SHIP CONTACT # 3

1123 I - Sighted two Native seahorses on course 010° T. speed 5 knots.

1650 I - Took several periscope pictures of Babuyan Island bearing 145° T. distant 62 miles.

1856 I - Surfaced and headed for next spot off West Entrance Babuyan Channel.

29 October 1944

0351 I - Exchanged recognition on 8J with PINTADO 20 mi. to West.

0606 I - Dive. [450] for BT card. [600] # negative gradient.
0715 I - Sighted Cape Bojeador Lighthouse bearing 210° T., distant 20 miles.

— page 15 —
29 October 1944 (Cont'd)
1904 I - Surface, Ran East-West course North of Cape Bojador until 2300 I, then set course for next station 60 mi. to West.

30 October 1944
0541 I - Arrived on station.
0630 I - Dive.

AIRRIFT COUTACT #3
1304 I - Signed 2 unidentified aircraft (Scout Bombers), alt. 800' bearing 260° True, course South, distant 5 miles. Had 5' of SD last and 15' periscope out at that time.

AIRRIFT COUTACT #4, 5, & 6
1502 I - Signed either AWIS or EMU bearing 045° T., alt. 1000', course South. Same situation as last sighting.
1603 I - Signed 2 single eng. monoplane, alt. 500', distant 6 miles, bearing 143° T., course South.
1512 I - 2 more of same type, apparently Japs are running them South to Philippines in force.
1912 I - Surface, Set course for next station 80 miles Northwest.

31 October 1944
0110 I - Charged course and speed to form Scouting Line on orders of Pack Commander.
0400 I - On line, Course 255° T., speed 15 knots to attempt interception of China Plane Task Force contact and CA. contact from sea source.
0453 I - Set course for days patrol on cancellation order from Pack Commander; China Plane contact correction placed targets out of reach.
0645 I - Dive, Wind and sea from 055° T. building up. Depth control touchy when above 60°. Dive #340.
1110 I - Visibility poor - intermittent rain squalls. Surfaced.

— page 16 —
31 October 1944 (Cont'd)
1307 I - In Lat. 19°-48 N; Long. 118°-51 E, passed through much wreckage, floats, lifeboat, parts of pecking cases, barrels, etc. Wind and Sea from 060° T. Believe this may be result SUNFISH last attack.

1313 I - Visibility improved. Dive.

1747 I - Surface.

2000 I - Set course for next station to West.

1 November 1944
0137 I - Heavy AAR indication on 155 HD. Out in SD for 3 sec. and found Aircraft at 6 mi. closing. Dive to 2001. Flare not sighted.

0238 I - Surface.

SHIP CC TACT #4
0305 I - Radar contact 26,000 yards, bearing 225° T. Went to 4 engines needed toward. Stationed Radar Tracking Party. Came to normal approach. We were on target port bow; range 17,000 yards; target course 070.

0325 I - Contact on First Escort.

0331 I - Contact on Second Escort. One on port bow, one trailing at 1300 yards. Seas very heavy from 060° T., best speed 15 knots at FULL power, taking great water over bridge. Tracking target at 15 knots on radical course between 330° T and 070° T. Our contact report had been sent blind; at same time JULIO reported contact. Target in sight with naked eye at 13,000 yards. Leading Escort at 5500. Full moon, broken clouds, occasional rain squalls.

0359 I - Battle Stations Torpedo. Trying to get across bow to starboard side; zig had thrown us to port. Leading Escort 5000 yards closing. Sharp left zig put me on escape course instead of normal approach; reversed course. Leading Escort crossed to starboard bow. Decided it was now or never, I was losing true bearing rapidly. Started in from 5600 yards on starboard bow at standard on 4 engines. kept bow pointed toward near Escort (CHIDORI TB), range closing fast. All ships in plain.

— page 17 —
1 November 1944 (Cont'd)
1. November 1944 (Cont'd)
sight with nailed eye. Escort turned to right with range 1550 yards, 400 on starboard bow, thought he had us, turned left to run out; range started to open so turned back, needed for target at same time sighted third escort (D2) emerging from squall 2300 yards on ATUL port being, angle on bow 10 port. It was bright as hell. Target very large passenger type. Single funnel. Number two escort on port quarter o' target.

0432 I - Commenced firing six torpedoes, depth 101 across heavy sea, opening range 1050 yards, 1100 STBD, track. Could see details on all ships but wasn't much interested. All ahead Flank trying to run out across targets stern. Attached 2 torpedoes breach than classpear.

0434 I - Terrific Explosion at 100' threw flaming material 3 times height of masts. Range to escort #3 (on target's starboard quarter) 1200. Decided to get out of sight; second explosion as I left the bridge. Dove to 450' about 2500 yards astern of target. Three torpedo explosions heard in Forward Torpedo Room, two in Control Room, coming Tower and Bridge.

0440 I - Line depth changes. None close.

0445 I - Very loud and heavy cracking and breaking up noises heard throughout the ship on bearing of target. All three escorts searching using 16,3' kcs.

0740 I - Lost all contact with escorts.

0815 I - Periscope depth. Commenced reload.

0915 I - Reversed course to close scene of attack.

SHIP CONTACT #5
1220 I - Sighted DE type escort and oil and debris extending from port bow to the stern. Broached twice during morning trying to get good look and listen on SD last. Opened out to East.

1904 I - Surface, wind and sea abating, squalls disappearing. Sent message to Pack Commander on attack.

2000 I - Set course for next station.

— page 18 —
2 November 1944
0643 I - Dive. Patrolling to South in area to cover Hong Kong. Manila Traffic Lanes.

0905 I - Surfaced.

1950 I - Command conversion of #4 PBT to #BT.

2200 I - Conversion completed.

2339 I - Received Submarine Contact Report on Carrier, Cruiser and three Destroyers.

2340 I - Set course 150° T, speed 19.

3 November 1944
0320 I - Received instructions from Pack Commander for Scouting Line dispositions.

0330 I - Changed course to 140° T.

0442 I - Changed course to 140° T.

0640 I - Dive. Commenced submerged patrol on course north in Eastern Flank position of East-West Scouting line.

0455 I - JP contact on screws boraing 238° T.

0700 I - Identified contact as PLT/NDO.

AIRPORT CONDUCTOR ID:

0802 I - Sighted 1 Eng. float plane 070° T, distant 6 miles, altitude about 1000 ft.

1805 I - Received Alert Signal from Pack Commander.

1842 I - Surfaced. Headed 270° T to close PLT/NDO.

2000 I - Received instructions from PACK COORD, Set course 270° T, 174 knots.

— page 19 —
3 November 1944 (Cont'd)
2046 I - Received first contact report from J/LL/10 on five ship force on course 120° T, speed 22, tent ahead full on four engines and came to 220° T. Best course to close. Stopping board indicated we would not be able to reach them but hoped for favorable zig or speed reduction.

2125 I - First contact report from Pack Commander. Dropped target speed to 17 knots. This looked favorable so came to course to place us ten miles ahead.

2220 I - Amplifying report from Pack Commander boosted target speed to 20 knots and enemy position indicated we were not getting ahead. PI/LL/10 reported he was attacking, watched for results to TEST and not torpedo room listen for explosions.

2254 I - Four explosions distinctly heard in Forward Torpedo Room and Control Room. Brigade yacht was fantastic ball of flame rise nearly to the clouds followed by great showers of sparks and a huge smoke column. Felt conflict PI/LL/10 had hit the Carrier and caused a gasoline explosion. Sent message to J/LL/10, whose radar interference indicated he was to northeast of targets, informing him that I was covering from 110° T, to 130° from target, at time of explosion, PI/LL was 100° T, distant 28 miles. From point of attack.

2256 I - Came to 250° T.

2302 I - Depth charging commenced.

SHIP CONTACT # 6
2350 I - Made sight and radar contact on 355° T, distant 13,000 yards - Destroyer.

4 November 1944
0016 I - Changed course to 270° T, J/LL/10 reported single ship retiring on course 330° T. We were now to South of attack position so came to 340° T, closing point of attack.

0024 I - Changed course to North. We had come from East of attack position through Southeast to South. Nothing had headed toward Philippines.

— page 20 —
1. NARRATIVE (CONT'D)
2. 4 November 1944 (Cont'd)
3. SHIP CONTACT # 7
4. 0039 I - Second contact on Destroyer bearing 055° T. distant 16000 yards. Plainly visible in bright moonlight. At this point, he gave PINTADO a 17 charge salvo. It was very pleasant to be on the surface.
5. 0050 I - Best estimate of the situation, based on belief carrier had been hit plus intelligence from JALIAO indicated enemy had retired toward refuge on China Coast. Therefore set course 330° T (Toward Hong Kong) at 18 knots.
6. 0245 I - Exchanged recognition signals on SJ with PINTADO who was headed in same direction.
7. 0452 I - Slowed to 14 knots and changed course to 290° T. to head for area on word from Pack Commander. Enemy had gone over the hill to south or southwest. 1 Destroyer instead of Carrier had been hit and sunk.
8. 0721 I - Trim Dive.
9. 0732 I - Surfaced.
10. 0835 I - Sighted PINTADO on port beam.

AIRPORT CONTACT # 9
11. 1220 I - Dive. Unidentified aircraft contact bearing 230° T, distant 10 miles, elevation 1000 feet.
12. 1305 I - Surfaced. Debris consisting of box, oil drum, rags signed during early afternoon. Lat. 18°-15' 1"; Log. 114°-50' E.
13. 2156 I - Entered assigned area for 5th & 6th at Lat. 19° 1'; 112°-50' E.

5. November 1944
14. 0653 I - Dive.
15. 1909 I - Surfaced on 100 fathom curve.
16. 2315 I - SJ radar out of commission for 2 hour.

6. November 1944
17. 0703 I - Dive.
18. 1918 I - Surfaced at 100 fathom curve.

— page 21 —
7 November 1944
0652 I - Dive, Area 150° 11' 114°-50 E.
1909 I - Surfaced.

8 November 1944
0701 I - Dive. Area 190° 11' 116°-50 E.
1901 I - Surfaced. Wind increasing, seas making up from 070° T.

9 November 1944
0430 I - APR contact 237' mes. Legend every minute & 40 seconds.
0440 I - Contact faded out.
0727 I - Dive. Area 200° 11' 117°-50 E. Depth control difficult during morning.
1241 I - Surfaced. And from 010° T, 25 knots. Seas heavy. Periscope search too limited, decided to conduct surface patrol until conditions improved.
1430 I - Distinct SGS received 4 times on APR at 250' mes. Set watch on 500' kts. Nothing heard. Fostion at time 200°-08' 11' 117°-50' E.
2200 I - Find velocity 45 knots.

10 November 1944
And 40 knots all day, no sights for 36 hours.

11 November 1944
0640 I - Dive. Obtained trim and roughly established position as 20 miles south of Formosa bank by crossing and recrossing 100 fathom curve. And 40 knots from 0150 T., Seas continue heavy.
0855 I - Surfaced. Returned to assigned area. 220° 11' 118°-50' E.
1305 I - Dive. Rotated torpedoes forward and aft.
1400 I - Wind and sea improving.
1416 I - Surfaced.

— page 22 —
0-0-1-P-I-D-Z-1-T-I-1-L
B. HARNATIVE CONTACT
12 November 1944
0640 I - Dive. Wind velocity 15 knots.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT # 10
1053 I - "BENTY" Bomber sighted bearing 119° T, on course North, distant 7 miles, altitude 1000 feet.

SHIP CONTACT # 8
1100 I - Fishing sampan sighted bearing 235° T. Course East, range 7500 yards. Equipped with machine gun on pilot house and buggy-whip antenna.

1840 I - Surfaced.

1855 I - Sd land contact (FORDSA) bearing 073° T, range 75,000 yards.

1931 I - Headed southwest on intelligence from GUNREL.

2005 I - Sent Pack Comdr. and JALLOX text of GUNREL contact.

2025 I - Received instructions forming scouting line.

2118 I - Flank speed.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT # 11
2145 I - APR aircraft contact on 152 mcs, PRF 800-1000 c/s, keying 15 seconds in every minute. Commenced zig-zag until 2200 when signal faded out.

It is worthy of special note that all of our aircraft contacts on APR during next few days were at 152-158 mcs, and special watch was set on this frequency range.

13 November 1944
0100 I - Reached assigned position and commenced patrol normal to enemy advance at 10 knots reversing course every 2 hour.

0409 I - Headed for assigned normal patrol area on orders from Pack Commander.

— page 23 —
13 November 1944

O418 I - Situation altered considerably. J/LLUO has contact at 30,000 yards, bearing 200° T, from her position at 20°-51' H; 118°-21' E, headed north on 4 engines awaiting amplifying report.

O425 I - Came to course 340° T.

O443 I - Received amplifying contact report from J/LLUO, enemy course 040° T, speed 20 knots.

O514 I - Second report from J/LLUO gave enemy speed as 16 knots. Changed course to 320° T to place J/LLUO 15 miles ahead on enemy track. No further reports from J/LLUO.

O624 I - SJ Radar contact at 9000 yards, bearing 020° T. Lost at once, believe was plane.

PIN/DD, center ship of scouting line, should have been in position to make contact if enemy had not altered course radically, so at 0630 I, having crossed over enemy track, headed north to cover routes to TAKO if he was circling our western flank.

0637 I - PINT/DD radar interference on port bow. Exchanged recognition signals with PINT/DD to west, decided to make retiring search for 16 knot target to eastward letting PINT/DD cover western flank. Came to course 070° T.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT # 12

0800 I - AR contact on 152 mcs.

0804 I - Sighted "BETTY" bearing 150° T, headed south at range of 10 miles, altitude 1000 feet. Dive. "Hit plane to east, suspected enemy may have run eastern flank.

0831 I - Surfaced.

SHIP CONTACT #2

0850 I - Periscope sighted what appeared to be two-masted schooner, bearing 277° T. SJ radar reported range of 29,600 yards. This was no schooner. Tools a look myself and decided it was foroto of BE. Angle on 1-2W 60° starboard. Came to normal approach course with everything bent on and could only get 17 knots headed

— page 24 —
13 November 1944 (Cont'd)

0850 I - (Cont'd) dead into sea. Tracking target on 040 T., speed 20 knots. Soon found we were losing true bearing and ended up on 050 T, holding bearing about steady. Range closing all too fast. Sent contact report, no receipt from either PITUD or JULIO.

0930 I - Hanging on with everything which is proving to be inadequate. 70 miles from TUKO and 9 miles from the carrier. The eastern horizon is brilliant and there is not a rain scuttle to be found. Our minutes on the surface are numbered.

1000 I - AER contact on 152 nms. Targets now definitely established as carrier, heavy cruiser and one destroyer. All all of superstructure of carrier plainly visible from bridge with naked eye and AER signals growing stronger, decided had to drive or lose all chance of attack. A favorable zig is due. Range 15,000 yards. (Right zig of 20° - 30° would give us a shot and cruiser is on near flank as an alternate target).

1003 I - Dive. Closed on normal approach course at high speed. Attack pride of Jap Fleet, carrier TUKO and TOE class cruiser go by at least range of 9000 yards. His 20 knots was too much. The anticipated zig had materialized - unfavorably!! Did he have us in sight and elect to tease us retaining his single DD and planes for close protection?

AIRCRAFT CONT. # 13

Sovcreal "PERNOMS" Bombers patrolled over target group. I would have given an arm for 25 knots. Not being able to close was tough on morale.

1115 I - Lost contact.

1236 I - Surfaced. Sent report to Fack Commander and JULIO. Headed for assigned station southeast of Fornosa. Enemy task force had only a run until 1300 I to be safely anchored in TUKO.

AIRCRAFT CONT. # 14

1612 I - Dive. Undetified 2 engine bomber sighted crossing bow on westerly course. Distant 6 miles. Altitude 800 feet.

— page 26 —
1
C-O-I-F-I-D-Z-N-T-I-A-L
B. MARATIVE (CONT'D)

14 November 1944 (Cont'd)

AIRCRAFT CONT'D # 17

0405 I - at which time it became very strong. Cut in SD and found 2 planes again 6 and 15 miles. Dive.

0456 I - Came to 40' and cut in. AIR. Strong signal; apparantly he brought his lunch.

0658 I - Aircraft sighted by periscope "M.VIS" patrol boat. Altitude 500 feet. Distant 10 miles. Altitude 500 feet.

1328 I - Seven charges or depth bombs to southwest, not close but not far. Definite snitching through superstructure.

1346 I - Seven more. Was afraid PLNT.DO was caught at periscope depth. Turned out to be HILISUT.

1854 I - Surfaed. Set course for area assigned and jammed battery charge. Expected return visit.

AIRCRAFT CONT'D # 20

2104 I - AIR contact on 155 mes.

2125 I - Contact faded out.

2135 I - Received instructions from Pack Commander to take scouting station to westward of Formosa. Docided to take more circuitous route to insure getting past my playmates. Headed south, then west, south of TIBIYAT Island.

15 November 1944

0630 I - Dive.

1853 I - Surfaed.

— page 27 —
15 November 1944 (Cont'd)
AIRCRAFT CONTACT #: 21

2325 I - APR contact on 158 mcs.
2327 I - Dive. Signal steady and increasing in intensity.
2356 I - Surfaced.

16 November 1944

0230 I - Commenced patrolling on station in accordance with last message from Clarey.
0538 I - Headed toward northeast at 14 engine speed to take up patrol at Lat. 20-30°N; long. 119-26°E. Sent instructions to JALMO to shift to new scouting line.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT #: 22

0903 I - Sighted 2 engine bomber (FR-025) bearing 1569 T.
elevation 500 feet, range 5 miles on course 035° T.
Dive. Commenced submerged patrol.

0921 I - 1 explosion to westward.

1843 I - Surfaced. Set course for assigned area at Lat. 21-45°N; long. 119-50°E. Had interference (SJ) from 4 submarines at same time.

1925 I - Exchanged calls with SEA RAVEN. Apparently "Fremontites" had stopped off on their journey to the west.

17 November 1944

0105 I - APR contact 155 mcs. Commenced zig-zag, secured SJ.
0110 I - Contact faded out.
0150 I - APR contact returned.
0200 I - Contact faded out.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT #: 23

0304 I - Very strong APR signal on 155 mcs.

— page 28 —
0-0-I-F-I-D-E-M-T-I-A-I
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)
17 November (Cont'd)
0305 I - Dive.
0327 I - Surfac'd.
0428 I - IR contact - same frequency. Faded out in 2 minutes.
0644 I - Dive.
1849 I - Surfac'd.
2018 I - IR contact on 94 mcs. We were about 60 miles from the early warning installation at TIKIO. Signal was observed throughout two nights and very irregular sweeping noted.

18 November 1944
0640 I - Dive.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT #24
0734 I - Sighted TWIS flying boat bearing 123° T, elevation 1000 feet, distant 3 miles, course 270° T.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT #25
0740 I - Sighted 2 twin engine bombers bearing 270° T., elevation 1000 feet, distant 5 miles on course 180° T.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT #26
1140 I - Sighted "TWIS" flying boat bearing 176° T, elevation 1000 feet, distant 8 miles on course 050° T.

1848 I - Surfac'd.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT #27
2043 I - Very close IR contact on 152 mcs. Dive. We are becoming thoroughly familiar with aircraft contacts on 152, 155 and 158 mcs. and will soon be able to predict which plane has the search sweep on a particular night.

2118 I - Surfac'd. It is policy to sweep on IR at 45' depth prior surfacing. SD has not been used since 13th of the month. Using SD to check IR contacts gave us an

— page 29 —
0-0-N-P-T-D-E-N-T-I-L-I-L
B.  IRRITATIVE (Cont'd)
18 November 1944 (Cont'd)
2118 I - Indication of strength of ATR signals at different (Cont'd) plane ranges. The decision to dive or not to dive is based on this information. Sketchy, but so far it has worked
19 November 1944
0305 I - Closed JULIO and gave them patrol instructions for traffic in Luzon Strait for 20th only. ATR watch in radio shack copied my message perfectly by radio frequency emitted by buzzer on blinker tube.
0316 I - Set course for BATAAN Islands.
0630 I - Dive.
1844 I - Surfaced.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT # 23
1950 I - Close ATR contact on 152 mcs. Dive.
2001 I - All clear. Surfaced.
2055 I - ATR contact 152 mcs. Did not dive.
2058 I - Lost contact.
2100 I - Based on information from contact reports, decided not to close BATAAN Islands; reversed course and headed for assigned area.

20 November 1944

SHIP CONTACT #10
0339 I - Radar contact bearing 115° T., range 11,750 yards. Headed toward, commenced tracking. Had a good pip at initial range so discounted thought that contact might be a submarine. No SJ interference or indication of other radar.
0351 I - Head flank, battle stations, changed to 020° T, TDC's initial estimate of target course.
0357 I - Chain out course to 060° T. We get ahead of target. Tracking indicated constant helm zig plan between 340° T and 050°, base course 015° T, speed close to 10 knots.

- 23 -

— page 30 —
20 November 1944 (Cont'd)
0.436 I - Stopped 2000 yards off starboard side of track, kept stern to. Shifted to battery propulsion. Light dark but clear sky with squall as backdrop for target, which was unsatisfactory but had to be accepted during early phase of approach. It 4600 yards enemy in sight, background now clear horizon. Identified as DD. Hiked slowly right as range closed, keeping bearing at 160°, it 2700 yards target was headed directly for TULB and time slowed down. Starboard angle on the bow slowly increased. Setup looked good so commenced shooting to catch him as he steadied between left and right swing for a torpedo track of 90° to 100° starboard.

0508 I - Pired four stern tube torpedoes at opening range of 2540 yards, gyros 201°, depth set 3, across moderate sea.

0510 I - # 3 torpedo hit at forward stack with terrific explosion. Is the smoke cleared, he was visible, bow under settling fast. 23 minutes after hit, stern reared straight up and he slid under.

0512 I - Depth charges exploded. Closed point of sinking for search. Circled oil slick slowly and found no survivors and very little debris (one box, 2 life jackets) only logical explanations for slow speed that he was low on fuel or was damaged in Philippine area. Course and position indicated his destination as TULB. Best identification indicated DD as HITSUHIRU class.

0555 I - Completed reload of after torpedo tubes.

0603 I - Cleared area to westward.

0635 I - Dive.

1851 I - Surfaced.

SHIP CONT/DT # 11

1903 I - Lookout sighted lights of properly marked hospital ship bearing 350° T, distant 20100 yards from Iat. 21-32; Long 119-03, course 215° T., speed 12 knots. Probably bound for Singapore.

2255 I - Exchanged calls with U.S.S. SAILFISH.

— page 31 —
21 November 1944

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)

21 November 1944

0320 I - Sent message to JALIAO assigning patrol station in BATAN Islands for 22nd only. I had been endeavoring to close the JALIAO to give him instructions visually because it has become increasingly apparent that our wolf pack frequencies are thoroughly covered and to open up means a plane over you day or night. This is true of Luzon Strait and about two hundred miles either side. Whether co-incidence or not at -

AIRCRAFT CONTACT # 22

0538 I - One AR contact on 158 mcs. and a second at 153 mcs.

0551 I - Signal very strong. Dive. Sea began making up in forenoon, depth control difficult by early afternoon. Broadened three times.

1643 I - Surfaced in heavy sea from 0450 T., wind steady at 35 knots. Set course for BATAN Islands at two engine speed making good 9 knots and taking water down the hatch.

2022 I - Forced to slow to one engine. Flooded out evaporators and took green sea into control room.

2146 I - AFR contact on 155 mcs. Decided he could not pick us up in heavy sea. Signal came in intermittently from this time until 0430 I next morning.

22 November 1944

0635 I - Quartermaster received cut over eye when knocked into rail by heavy sea.

0700 I - Radar land contact on BATAN Islands, range 50,000 yards. We had been able to make good 5.5 to 6 knots during night.

0712 I - Dive.

1844 I - Surfaced. Wind and sea had abated considerably. Set course for area northwest of BOUADOR.

2059 I - Radar contact on submarine. Exchanged calls with U.S.S. RAY passing through to eastward.

- 25 -

— page 32 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-I-I-L
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)
23. November 1944
0650 I - Dive.
0730 I - Sighted northwest tip of Luzon bearing 145° T, distant 60 miles.
1816 I - Surfaced.
2035 I - Exchanged notes visually with JALILAO. Gave him permission to patrol in vicinity of BADUAYAN Island and also got his O.K. on extension of patrol for several days if that point should come up later.

24. November 1944
0625 I - Dive. Position 13 miles northwest of BOYADOR Light. Closed coast.

SHIP CONTACT #12
1330 I - Echo ranging on 19 kcs, bearing 200° T.
1332 I - Sighted one AP and escorting well-deck destroyer.
1400 I - Battle stations torpedo. Four ships in sight, one large AP, 1 DD, 1 PC and what appeared to be a three stack NATCRI CL astern.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT #30
Two "FRANCOIS" bombers overhead. Targets came to course north up west side of MAYRIA Point, very close in to beach. Their fathometers were being used regularly. DD and PC were to seaward outboard of ATULE, angle on bow of AP 15 starboard, range 8,000 yards. DD appeared to make sound contact, turned toward and shifted keying. AP and CL made large zig to the right and stepped out ahead of both escorts. Escorts passed out of range so shifted to destroyer. Escorts turned toward shore and made excellent end runs with least ranges of 5000 on the DD and 3500 on the PC.

1446 I - Secured from battle stations. Turned to northwest and opened out from coast.

— page 33 —
1659 I - While making preparations to surface, sighted "FRANCOIS" bomber at range of 7 miles, altitude 500 feet, heading toward Cape BOJADOR.

1710 I - Lost sight of plane.

1715 I - Surfaced. Sent contact report to ComSubsPac and headed north at best speed to take up patrol position south of SABIAN ISLAND.

2315 I - AFR contact on 152 mcs. Did not dive.

2315 I - Radar contact bearing 145° T., range 24,450 yards, good pip. Commenced tracking. Has sure this was same course at 141° S. Headed for SABIAN ISLAND, he had run from Cape BOJADOR to the BAYAN ISLANDS, about 120 miles and here they were in our lap!

Tracked target on steady course 030° T. at 11 knots. Four targets on radar screen. One escort on port bow, one on starboard beam and what was thought to be a CL, now appeared to be a third escort, patrolling station at SABIAN ISLAND. Moonset at 0203 I, sea from 090° T., moderate swells and one escort on starboard flank made a starboard side attack much to be preferred. All targets in sight from the bridge. The transport was in sight at 15,000 yards.

25 November 1944

0050 I - Battle stations torpedo.

0055 I - Passed from port to starboard bow of AP. A beautiful patch of dark cloud will be behind us on this attack.

0106 I - Turned toward target from position 30° on his starboard bow, range 8,000 yards. Near escort looks unhealthy, we are only 2000 yards from his track.

— page 36 —
0-0-I-F-I-D-Z-N-T-I-J-L
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)
27 November 1944

SHIP CONTACT # 14

OL41 I - Radar contact 11,400 yards, bearing 076° T., own ship's position 15 miles west of BATH Islands.

OL42 I - Station radar tracking party. I was in a very unsatisfactory position for investigating the contact, partly cloudy, 3/4 harvest moon and directly up moon from contact. One officer in the wardroom reported a single explosion. Commenced a fancy zig-zag during brief periods when moon was clouded over.

0208 I - Second radar contact at 12,000 yards in vicinity of first. Tracking revealed radical maneuvers then zig-zag on base course 260° T.

0225 I - Sighted object between DEQUOY and ISHUGS Islands. Broke of reconnoitering radar contacts and closed object to investigate. Went to battle stations.

SHIP CONTACT #15

0245 I - Definitely identified as a ship at anchor. Both radar contacts now lost. The situation resolved itself into waiting for daylight and a crack at him as he came out probably with both surface and air escort, or go get him now. The latter course of action was decided upon but with moment after 0400, attack was impossible from southward approach; furthermore target was at northern end of passage. Circled DEQUOY Island to westward keeping careful watch for sentinels. Took up a position 4500 yards north and a little east of passage to minimize possibility of cross current, get best background and have target silhouetted against horizon clear of islands. Shifted to battery and eased in slowly at 1/3. Lowered one sound head then changed my mind and raised it when only surf noises heard on either bow. There appears to be no cross-current here.

0359 I - Commenced firing 4 bow tubes, 0° gyro, 0 feet depth setting, using forward TBT and swinging bow slowly for spread from aft forward. Radar had not been able to pick target out of land background, so had closed until range as determined with binoculars was close to 2000 yards, angle on bow about 50 port, ship was 5000-7000 ton split-superstructure air, watched 4 hits spread along entire port side. The fourth hit fired

— page 38 —
1-0-N-P-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)
28. November 1944 (Cont'd)
    1217 I - Surfaced.
29. November 1944
    0205 I - Exchanged calls with RAZORBACK by SJ radar.
30. November 1944
    1318 I - Training dive.
    1337 I - Surfaced.
    1516 I - Exercised at Gun Action Stations. Fired 5", 20mm and .30 cal.

1. December 1944
    SHIP CONTACT #16
    1115 I - Sighted periscope 2000-yards on starboard beam. Put it astern at full speed.

2. December 1944
    0340 I - Made rendezvous with escort, PC 1126.
    0900 I - Issued alongside SEA POACHER, starboard side U.S.S. FULTON in Tanapag Harbor, Saipan.

3. December 1944
    Lieutenant, Comdr. R.H. BAHNS, U.S.N., was detached as a PCO, and Lieutenant, Comdr. P.R. SCHRATZ, U.S.N. reported on board for duty.

0910 I - Underway from Saipan, enroute MAJURO with escort PC 1126.
1245 I - Sighted ANATAIAN ISLAND, bearing 000° T, distance 26 miles.
1315 I - Released escort.
1332 I - Trim dive.
1354 I - Surfaced.

— page 39 —
1944

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)

3 December 1944 (Cont'd)

1400 I - Set clocks ahead to -10 Zone Time.

1641 I - Sighted friendly aircraft.

4 December 1944

1338 K - SD contact 30 miles, friendly.

6 December 1944

0000 K - Exchanged calls with GUARDFISH and SEA ROBIN via SJ radar.

0900 K - Set clocks ahead to -11 Zone Time.

1515 L - Emergency drills and battle stations, surface and submerged.

8 December 1944

1900 L - Entered CHINESE.

2 December 1944

1955 L - Radar contact bearing 120° T., range 23,000 yards. Ship was a large unescorted AC enroute ENEMY. Since we had been notified to expect friendly shipping, kept well clear after taking advantage of a good opportunity for a radar tracking drill.

2345 L - Commenced 6 hour battery discharge.

10 December 1944

1300 L - 20nm drill.

2106 L - Radar contact bearing 260° T., range 15,500 yards. Again a friendly AC was used to good advantage for tracking drill.

11 December 1944

0945 L - Made rendezvous with escort, SC 1364.

1405 L - Hooted to starboard side U.S.S. BUSHNELL, hajuro Atoll.

— page 47 —
35: 04/27 : 20-19 : Unknown : 4 mi. : NWE : - : R(SJ) :
: 11/26 : 120-47 :
: 36: 07/47 : 20-02 : 3 BETTY : 5 mi. : 015 : 500 : P :
: 11/26 : 120-23 :
: 37: 23/30 : 20-05 : Unknown : - : - : - : ATR : Radar 152 mcs.
: 11/26 : 120-50 : 38: 05/29 : 20-35 : Unknown : - : - : - : ATR : Radar 155 mcs.
: 11/27 : 122-00 : 39: 18/49 : 20-53 : Unknown : - : - : - : ATR : 115 mcs. radar.
: 11/27 : 122-30 : 40: 22/00 : 20-50 : Unknown : - : - : - : ATR : 152 mcs. radar.
: 11/27 : 123-02 : 41: 11/30 : 20-20 : BETTY : 10 mi : E : 1000 : SD :
: 11/28 : 22-25 : : : : : : : : :

— page 49 —
1. ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. ATULB (SS403) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. ONE PATROL NO. ONE
Time 0432 I Date 1 November 1944 Lat. 20-09 N Long. 117-38 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted
Description - 1 AP (large), 1 Torpedo Boat (CHIDORI), 1 DE, 1 PG. Contact by Radar.
Ships Sunk - 1 large AP (10,000 tons) EU single funnel, passenger, BUNOS AIRES LAHU type.
Ships damaged - None.
Damage determined by - Heard on hit, observed another from bridge with terrific explosion. Popping breaking up noises plainly audible throughout ship. Large oil slick and much debris at scene of attack.

Target draft 18. Course 000 T Speed 14. Range 1835 yards

Crew Ship Data
Speed 15-12 Course 2800 T Depth Surface Angle Zero

Fire Control & Torpedo Data
Fired across force 5 seas with depth setting of 10 feet. Broadside of two torpedoes may have been caused by bow lifting clear of water. Both apparently took their depth thereafter and made satisfactory runs.
Radar information was used entirely for TDC; Use of TBD being out of the question.
All fire control party functioned without a hitch in this first, and very fast moving attack.
Visibility conditions were not satisfactory for surface attack but speed of target, zig plan, and condition of sea dictated method without alternative.

-43-

— page 50 —
1 2 3 4 5 6
Track Angle 117 S 119 S 123 S 125 S 128 S 131 S
Gyro Angle 016° 018° 021° 024° 027° 031°
Depth Set 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft.
Power
Hit or Miss Miss Miss Miss Hit Hit
Erratic Broached Broached No No No No
Mark Torpedo 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 56927 56936 57033 56959 56930 56764
Mark Exploder 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5
Serial No. 9618 10488 9071 9901 9038 8929
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Set None None None None Contact Contact
Mark Harried 16-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 3720 2401 4128 4004 2470 3618
Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Int. 10s 8s 10s 10s 9s
# Type Spread 1 L 1 R 5 L 3 L 3 R 5 R
Very Very Very Very Very Very
Sea Conditions Rough Rough Rough Rough Rough
Overhaul Activity - U.S. Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks - First 2 torpedoes apparently ran normal after initial
broaching.

# - 2° divergent spread from APT F.D., center fish fired first.

— page 51 —
1 DD, HATSUHARU class (EU)
Ships Sunk: 1 DD, HATSUHARU class (EU)
Ships Damaged: None.

Damage determined by - Heard and saw terrific explosion from bridge; bridge watch watched target settle, then stick his stern in the air and finally plunge, depth charges exploding as he went down. In all, about two minutes were required for ship to sink.

Target draft 101 Course 010° T Speed 25 Range 240

ON SHIP DATA

Speed 3 kts Course 055° T Depth Surface Angle Zero

FIRES CONTROL & TERPED DATA

Surface radar approach was made using radar exclusively until enemy was in sight, then shifted to after TEST for bearings, radar ranges, kept stern to target, minimum silhouette. At 2700 yards, angle on bow 5' starboard. Target commenced left swing. Fired four stern tube shots, depth set 3' across moderate see, gyros 201 for 90 to 100 starboard track, 130 divergent spread from aft forward, designed to catch target when steady between left and right swing of constant helm zig plan. All torpedoes made normal run. #3 hit shortest #1 stack. Fire control party worked smoothly. DRT had beautiful picture of target.track and is considered worth its weight in gold for surface targets.

- 45 -

— page 52 —
7    8    9    10
Tube No.    7    8    9    10
Track Angle *  94 S  96 S  99 S  101 S
Gyro Angle *  201 S  201 S  201 S  201 S
Depth Set    3    3    3    3
Power     -     -     -     -
Hit or miss   Miss  Miss  Hit  Miss
Mark Torpedo  18-1  18-1  18-1  18-1
Serial No.   56873  56361  56904  56975
Mark Exp.    8-5   8-5   8-5   8-5
Serial No.   9109  10318 10330 8866
Actuation Set  Contact  Contact  Contact  Contact
Actuation Actual  None  None  Contact  None
Mark Jar Head 18-2  18-2  18-2  18-2
Serial No.   4006  3070  4021  3772
Explosive    Torpex  Torpex  Torpex  Torpex
Firing Int.    12   10   10
* Type Spread  2½ L  3/4 L  3/4 R  2½ R
Sea Condition  (-)
Overhaul Act.  U.S. Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks  * Own ship was swinging right slowly during firing.
    * 1½" divergent spread from aft forward.

— page 53 —
1 large single stack composite transport (EU)
1 MUTSUKI or WAKATAKE class DD (EU)
1 Unidentified DD (EU)
1 PC (EU)

Ships Sunk: 1 large AP (EU)
1 MUTSUKI or WAKATAKE class DD (EU)

Ships damaged: None.

Damage determined by: (a) Saw two hits in DD and saw him blow up and disintegrate; (b) Saw one hit in AP and heard a second; pfp formerly held easily at 24,000 yards grew faint a nd disappeared at a range of 11,000 yards 10 minutes after second hit. Lost sight of target from bridge; in sight up to this time.

Target draft AP 18 Course 060 Speed 104 Range 3300
DD 10

GUN SHIP DATA
Bow tubes: Speed 5 kts Course 300 Depth Surface Angle Zero
Stern Tubes: 180

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Surface radar approach using radar exclusively. TBT not used because of roll and necessity to keep track of escort to moment of firing. Took position on starboard bow of target, kept bow pointed toward near (DD) escort. With 75 starboard track on AP, gyro 015, run 2800 yards and escort over-lapping, commenced firing 6 bow torpedoes with depth set 6 feet with moderate sea. Swung left to bring stern tubes to bear. Fired #7 and #8 with gyro 160, run 2500 yards, track-100 starboard. Held up on #9 and #10 when target began to swing left. Spread from aft forward on all torpedoes. Two hits on each target, DD exploded shortly after second hit; AP dead in the water and sank 10 minutes after second hit. Forward gyro setting regulator kicked out due high voltage with auxiliary engine carrying zero float. Batched by hand with no difficulty. All torpedoes ran hot, straight and normal.

— page 54 —
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
H. ATTACT DATA (Cont'd)

Tube No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Track Angle 75 S 76 S 78 S 79 S 80 S 81 S 100 S 102 S
Gyro Angle 015 016 018 019 020 021 160 162
Depth Set 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
Power
Hit or Miss Miss Hit Hit Hit Miss Miss Hit Miss
Mark Torp. 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 56556 56907 56918 56883 56512 56267 56928 56368
Mark Exp. 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5
Serial No. 9736 10382 9977 8928 9040 10138 10256 10184
Actuation Set (---Contact---)
Actuation Act. None Cont. Cont. Cont. None None Cont. None
Mark Variable 18-2 18-2 18-1 18-2 18-1 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 3439 3680 1770 3204 1848 3320 4082 3578
Explosive (---Torpex---)
Firing Int. 14 11 9 9 9 10 11
Type Spread * 3-3/4L 2 1/4L 3/4L 3/4R 2 1/4R 3-3/4R 2 1/4L
Sea Condition (---Moderate---)
Overhaul Act. U.S. Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks * 11° Divergent spread aft forward - 200 feet
along target's track.

-48-

— page 55 —
1 medium AK (EU)
Ships destroyed:1 medium AK (EU)
Ships damaged: None.
Damage determined by -- four torpedoes seen to hit target. Ship burst into violent flames from stem to stern, showing almost her entire port side to be blown away. From time of firing until 0509 I, a period of 1 hour and 11 minutes, target continued to burn with terrific periodic explosions sending sparks hundreds of feet into the air. The final detonation was seen from 23 miles, after which fire died out, target apparently having been completely blown apart.

Target draft: 20 Course Anchored Speed 0 Range 2500

ON SHIP DATA

Speed 4 kts Course 190° T Depth Surface Angle Zero

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

This attack was characterized by a simplicity of fire control akin to test firing. Four straight bow shots, depth setting 0 feet were fired bow and arrow fashion. TBT was used to get point of aim. Torpedoes were spread at quarter lengths from stern to bow, all aimed to hit, range 2500 yards, 50 port track. By creeping directly toward target at bare steerageway, the cross current had been established as negligible. All torpedoes ran straight as a die and were not viable. As noted on other surface attacks, some of the torpedoes, without regard to whether fired from a low or high tube, broach before taking their depth, then run beautifully.

- 49 -

— page 56 —
4 3 2 1
Tube No. 60 P 60 P 60 P 60 P
Track Angle 0 0 0 0 0
Gyro 0 0 0 0 0
Depth Set 0 0 0 0 0
Power - - - - -
Hit or Miss Hit Hit Hit Hit
Erratic No. No No No No
Mark Torpedo 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 56850 57036 56848 56899
Mark Warhead 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 3416 3757 3001 3717
Firing Int. - 19° 19° 54°
Type Spread Spread along target's length by swinging ship
Sea Condition (--- Calm ---)
Overhaul Activity U.S. Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks Target anchored

- 50 -

— page 58 —
0-N-N-P-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
K. MAJOR DEFECTS (Cont'd)

decided to wait until reaching port before attempting to repair the engine.

The cause is undetermined but the nature of the casualty indicates either application of a sudden overload or defective material; the former is more probable.

I. RADIO

Radio reception was satisfactory most of the patrol. Heavy interference from Japs and atmospherics on HIJIKI frequencies was particularly noticeable for first half of patrol. Most reliable HAIKU frequency, until brooded, was 090 kcs was resumed, was 6045, 9090 kcs is by far the best at present. At approximately 2000 CGT, NPL begins fading, usually becoming unreadable by 2300 CGT, comes back on high frequencies (13,955 and 16,730 kcs) about 0200 CGT. This fading is no serious handicap while on station.

Toll-pac frequencies are all about the same, and the Japs apparently use all of them on ship to shore traffic. Jap interference was not intentional in most instances, although on at least two occasions an "English speaking" Jap, using standard U.S. Navy radio telephone procedure politely asked us to "Come in. Please". Also, the Jap would frequently repeat wolf pack transmissions trying to elicit a roger for direction finding purpose.

This pack used radio telephone on wolf-pack frequencies and believe it much better than CGT.

Radio China was copied satisfactorily on 4155 kc between 1800-1830 CGT, but the new schedules on 12,465 kcs between 1000-1030 CGT and 0200-0230 CGT were frequently unreadable, due to Japs on the same frequency.

No trouble was experienced in transmitting using the 4235 kc series, although the circuit appeared overcrowded at times.

N. RADAR

In general radar operation was good with a maximum range of 29,000 yards on an enemy aircraft carrier. Maximum ranges were somewhat reduced by periodic keying of transmitter; normal procedure being 1 to 4 sweeps out of every 2 to 10 minutes. In all but one instance it was possible to identify other 3J radars by shape of pulses on precision sweep. In identification of other submarines, the value of operatives trained in code and a brief standard procedure was readily apparent.

— page 59 —
0-N-P-I-D-D-M-T-I-I-I-L
N, RADAR (Cont'd)
The chief maintenance problem was the location of tubes with desirable characteristics, particular 1y magnetron, T-R tube and beating oscillator.

The JP failed early in the patrol. To reduce tuning drift, it was found helpful to check regulated rectifiers periodically for weak tubes.

The SD radar was kept on standby the major part of the patrol and used only instantaneously for range versus signal strength of aircraft radar detected by APL during first few days on station.

Little technical data was collected by APL due to failure of JP power transformer and spare; however, the APL was absolutely indispensable for disclosing presence of night radar equipped planes.

No standard keying procedure was observed but enemy apparently keyed his transmitter only a few seconds out of each minute when in contact. No shipborne radar was detected.

Increased use and dependence on detection equipment indicates a real need for development of a single tuning unit covering known or projected enemy radar frequency band. Shifting units results in wear and tear that will ultimately cause wreckdown and the time delay introduces a dangerous situation when trying to apprehend plane radar.

N, SOUND GEAR - SOUND CONDITIONS

Only two worthwhile contacts were made submerged. On the first, JP picked up the screws of the carrier TL-10 at a range of approximately 15,000 yards. JK and QB made no contact on this target at a minimum range of 3,000 yards. On the second, off MARINA point, northwest coast of Lu-on, echo ranging was heard on supersonic gear at a range of 12 miles. JK and QB contacted large DD's screws at 4,000 yards, but JP was unable to pick them up.

Not enough observations were made to generalize on sound conditions in this area.

— page 60 —
0. DENSITY LAYERS

1. Following is a list of recordings made with baththermo-graph. All depths are keel depths:

Time and Date: Let.(N): Long(E) : Gradient : Remarks

0900 I; 10/26 : 22-31; 127-36 : -12° 14-4201 :
0615 I; 10/28 : 19-45; 121-45 : -13° 100-4201 :
0630 I; 10/29 : 18-51; 120-48 : -10° 100-4501 :
0645 I; 10/30 : 19-01; 5;119-47 : -10° 240-4301 :
0440 I; 11/1 : 20-09; 117-38 : -17° 240-475' : Surface set 225°;
    : drift 1 kt. Below
    : gradient set 355,
    : drift 3,5 kts.

0700 I; 11/2 : 19-02; 117-58 : -13° 220-4001 :
0715 I; 11/3 : 16-55; 118-23 : -17° 200-4001 :
0715 I; 11/4 : 19-06; 112-45 : -15° 150-3201 :
0730 I; 11/7 : 19-06; 114-51 : -15° 140-4201 :
0720 I; 11/8 : 18-57; 116-53 : -16° 120-4201 :
0730 I; 11/12 : 21-55; 119-57 : -10° 280-4501 :
0640 I; 11/15 : 20-32; 120-58 : -12° 220-4101 :
0700 I; 11/17 : 22-07; 119-38 : -9° 280-4501 :
0700 I; 11/24 : 18-41; 120-28 : -14° 140-4501 :
0630 I; 11/25 : 21-02; 122-22 : -6° 340-4501 :

2. Attention is invited to the sub-surface counter current observed under a negative 17° gradient on 1 November 1944.

- 54 -

— page 62 —
CONFIDENTIAL

R.  HILLS STEAKED - FUEL USED

| Miles | Fuel |
|------|------|
| Base to area | 5955 mi. 72,920 gal. |
| In area | 5975 mi. 49,530 gal. |
| Area to base | 6460 mi. 45,030 gal. |
| Total | 16,570 mi. 167,480 gal. |

S.  DURATION

| Days | Enroute to area | 18 |
|------||----|
| Days | In area | 31 |
| Days | Enroute to base | 14 |
| Total | 63 |
| Days | Submerged | 26 |

T.  FACTORS OF ENDURANCE RETAINING

| Torpedoes | Fuel | Provisions | Personnel Factor |
||------|||
| 2        | 20,000 gal. | 10 days | 10 days |

U.  RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

None

— page 63 —
0
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-L-L
V. REGARDS
1. Torpedoes

Torpedo performance was excellent, Twenty-four Mark 18-1 torpedoes were carried. Twenty-two were fired for eleven hits. The performance of this torpedo with shallow depth settings is especially noteworthy. Four were fired with 3 ft. settings and four with zero settings. Several torpedoes, regardless of depth setting, broached momentarily on leaving the tube. This was true whether upper or lower tubes were fired. All torpedoes fired were surface shots and all made normal runs.

Care of electric torpedoes is more difficult than steam torpedoes but the work load is not excessive. Charging was accomplished by partially withdrawing a torpedo from the tube and securing with a strap on the roller station. This condition is undesirable but is the only practical way until one salvo has been fired. The forward room schedule consisted of charging three days per week. Six torpedoes, two in tubes and four in racks, were charged each of the first two charging days and on the third charging day two in the tubes and two in the racks were charged. In the afternoon charging was carried out on two days each week, two in the tubes and two in the racks being charged each day. A dead cell check was made on every second charging.

The new Ward Leonard hydrogen eliminator panels installed at Pearl Harbor were entirely satisfactory.

Three hydrogen burner units were replaced after four weeks service. No other spares were used except for miscellaneous gaskets and washers.

Special thanks are due the I.K. 18 School at Pearl Harbor which furnished invaluable dope on care and upkeep of the torpedoes.

2. The Commanding Officer wishes to commend, publicly, the entire complement of officers and enlisted men for their most creditable performance during all periods of the patrol.

Material upkeep, torpedo performance, fire control, watch standing and personnel alertness left nothing to be desired.

Three top watch standards, Lt. Comdr. S. THAXTER, Lieut. H.F. CHURCH, Jr., and Lieut. J. HUDSON had never made a patrol; neither had the Communication Officer Lieut. (jg) C.N. PENTTIT, the Commissary Officer, Risingi G.O. OISON nor Lieut. F.C. HALL, who came aboard at SAIPAN, Lt. (jg) F.A. O'NEUS handled all radar materiel failures with neatness and despatch and spent long hours tuning and checking to insure maximum effectiveness of equipment. Ensign D.G. PERRY, newly acquired at Pearl Harbor, has done very well as J.O.O.D. and a diving officer.

— page 65 —
1
FB5-14/2/A16-3
Serial: 061
CONFIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS ATLANTIC (SS403) Conf.
1tr. SS403/A16/A9, Ser 013,
dated 11 December 1944.

From: The Commander Submarine Division 142.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron FOURTEEN.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(3) The Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. ATLANTIC (SS403) - Report of First War Patrol, Comments on.

1. The ATLANTIC conducted her first war patrol in the LUZON STRAITS area as part of a coordinated attack group consisting of ATLANTIC, JALILAO and PINPADO, with the Commanding Officer of PINPADO acting as OTC. The patrol lasted for a period of sixty-three days of which thirty-one were spent in the area assigned. Termination was in accordance with the provisions of the operation orders though only two torpedoes remained at that time.

2. This patrol was another outstanding example of what a submarine can do on its first patrol with most of its officers and men still green to combat. The results achieved reflect great credit upon the skipper, his executive officer, and all hands concerned with the excellent training of this efficient and aggressive unit of our force.

3. The torpedo and fire control performance was excellent. Eleven hits were recorded out of twenty-two torpedoes fired in four well developed attacks which resulted in the sinking of five valuable enemy ships. A brief description of these attacks follows:

ATTACK #1
A night surface radar attack on a fast moving escorted transport, Heavy seas and the high speed of the convoy made the approach phase difficult. However, a nice attack position was attained and six torpedoes fired from a range of 1850 yards on a 1100 starboard track resulting in two (possibly three) hits and the breaking up of the target.

ATTACK #2
Radar contact on a lone destroyer was developed into a beautiful attack on a constant helming target. After gaining position slightly on the starboard bow and keeping his stern to; the commanding officer waited for a favorable range and track set-up, then let go with four torpedoes set at 3 feet resulting in one hit and another diving Jap DD. Slow speed of target (91 knots) would seem to indicate previous damage.

— page 67 —
FC5-14/A16-3
Serial 0131.
CONFIDENTIAL

STERN ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS ATULE (SS403) Conf.
1tr, SS403/A16/A9, Ser 013
dated 11 December 1944.

From: The Commander Sumarine Squadron FOURTEEN.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
       (2) The Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. ATULE (SS403) - Report of First War Patrol,
Comments on.

1. Forwarded concurring in the remarks of Commander
   Submarine Division 142.

2. The Squadron Commander takes great pleasure in
   congratulating the Commanding Officer, officers and crew on this
   aggressive and outstanding patrol and for the severe losses in-
   flicted on the enemy.

It is recommended that the ATULE be credited with
the following:

| SSN | Ship | Tonnage |
|-----|------||
| 1AP | (similar to Buenos Aires Maru Type) (EU) | 9,600 tons |
| 1AP | (large) (EU) | 10,000 tons |
| 1DD | (Hatsuharu Class) (EU) | 1,700 tons |
| 1DD | (Mutsuki Class) (EU) | 1,300 tons |
| 1AK | (Medium) (EU) | 4,000 tons |

GRAND TOTAL 26,600 tons

Copy to:
CSD 142
CO ATULE

W. D. WILKIN.

— page 68 —
12-10/416-3(15)
Serial 06
CONFIDENTIAL
THIS REPORT WILL BE
FIRST WAR PATROL
COLSUSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 620.
U.S.S. ATULE - FIRST 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. ATULE (SS430) - Report of First War Patrol.
(9 October to 11 December 1944).

1. The first war patrol of the ATULE, under the command of H. Maurer, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the Luzon Straits and the U.S.S. ENITADO (SS367), formed a coordinated attack group with the Commanding Officer of the ENITADO as its group commander.

2. During this outstanding patrol, the first war patrol was remarkable for the excellent area coverage, many anti-submarine measures, and numerous valuable targets were contacted. Enemy anti-submarine measures, particularly radar equipped night flying planes, were intense. The ATULE, however, displayed a cool aggressiveness worthy of a veteran submarine in developing contacts and delivering four successful torpedo attacks which resulted in five enemy ships being sent to the bottom.

3. The Commander Combat Insignia for this patrol is authorized.

4. The Commander submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, constitutes the commanding officer, officers, and crew for this outstanding first patrol. The ATULE is credited with having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy during this patrol:

|

— page 72 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-Z-K-T-I-A-L

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)

15 January

0936 K - Underway from U.S.S. FULION, Tanapag Harbor, Saipan.
11C0 K - Changed to zone -9 time (I).

ALL THIS TIME

1026 - assumed loose formation astern escort PO 1126 in company with U.S.S. SPADEFISH (UNDERCOLD - Group Commander), U.S.S. BANG, and U.S.S. DWILFISH enroute assigned area. PO/PON and JALAD delayed.

1555 - Escort departed.

1605 - Trim clive.

1627 - Surfaced.

16 January

1058 - Deep dive checking for tightness.

1124 - Surfaced.

1256 - Sighted PBZ74.

1320 - Sighted PBZ74.

1347 - Cams to course west to close reported position of raft with single survivor. (Position report from CDmSubPac). Sent message to pack commander covering movements and position of survivor.

1402 - Picked up yellow aircraft oxygen bottle at Iat. 18-26.5 N, Long. 141-08.5 E, Marine life indicated that it had been afloat for some time.

16 January

1420 - Received second position report, this time 60 miles closer at same latitude. Flare pilot reported dropping boat to several survivors, one injured. Increased speed to reach position prior to dark. Reports do not agree. We were in doubt whether two parties or one were sighted. Lanned 500 Kcs.

1541 - SPADEFISH requested orders from ComFask Group 17.7 regarding desired aid in search.

— page 73 —
16 January (Cont'd)
16 January (Cont'd)
1744 - Reached position of second reported contact; fired green rocket and commenced search.
1819 - Abandoned search; headed north to rejoin group on receipt of corrected position of survivors (120 miles to northeast).
Fired green Very's cartridges at intervals.
2224 - Received instructions from CTG 17.7 to search for 24 hours at scene of first plane contact. Turned back.

17 January
0009 - APR contact 224 mcs.
0045 - APR signal faded out. (Later identified as friendly surface craft engaged in search).
0600 - Received instructions from CTG 17.7 and SPADEFISH to abandon search. Position of survivors never definitely established. No might have been of real assistance if supplied with concrete data. ...re reached both of first two reported positions only to be told positions were in error.
0326 - SD radar contact 30 miles.
0333 - PBZ74 passed overhead.
1235 - SD contact 19 miles, plane not sighted.
1640 - Training dive.
1720 - Surfaced.

18 January
0916 - SD contact 24 miles, not sighted.
1350 - Training dive.
1400 - Surfaced.

19 January
0300 - Recieved report from BANG of float lights in triangle formation and of his intention to investigate at daybreak.

SHIP CONTACT NO. 1
0924 - Sighted trawler type patrol boat at Lat. 27° - 12' N; 134°-20' E Inter determined to be BANG's contact of 0300.

— page 74 —
1206 - 15 B-29's passed 8 miles to east headed north, named life-guard frequency and. WHF until 1800 I, heard SPADEFISH establish contact with planes.

1305 - 1ade sight contact with BANG.

1621 - Training dive.

1630 - Surfaced.

20 January
0053 - Radar contact on U.S.S. POLFON.

1000 - Converted #4 F.B.T. to A.B.T.

1031 - 2 dives to flush tank.

1049 - Surfaced.

1621 - Sighted YAKU SHIMA bearing 305° T., range 93,000 yards.

2400 - Completed passage of NANSEI SHOTO south of YAKU SHIMA in company with SPADEFISH and POLFON to the tune of a medley of shore based racers at 148, 150, 155 and 159 mcs. Apparently none made contact at least range of 30,000 yards.

21 January
AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 1
0240 - AFR signal at 154 mcs from two aircraft. Neither showed in SU.

0644 - Trim dive.

0720 - Decided to try it on surface.

0800 - Exchanged greetings with U.S.S. SPOT then departing area for base.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 2
1156 - Div'd. Unidentified aircraft at 10 miles.

1234 - Surfaced.

1500 - Entered area.

— page 75 —
21 January (Cartel d)
SHIP CONTACT NO. 2
1644 - Sighted two trawlers or minesweeps in line 2000 yards between ships on course 000° T.
1701 - Sighted SAISHU TO bearing 000° T. distant 40 miles.
1703 - Dived to investigate trawlers who obligingly reversed course and disappeared.
1738 - Surfaced.
1904 - Sighted two white lights in the direction of SAISHU TO. No radar contact, bearing changed rapidly; assumed to be fishermen.
1957 - APR signal (260 ms. kRta TO).
22 January
SHIP CONTACT NO. 3
0015 - Radar contact 11,000 yards. Went to battle stations and closed at slow speed. Identified visually as patrol craft lying to. Turned away to avoid and he followed at 13.5 knots with much conversation on 500 Kcs.
0105 - Lost contact.
0120 - APR signal 161 ms. (KOKUZAN TO).
0312 - Radar contact at 7900 yards on first of three samps.
0608 - Lost contact on last of the samps.
0650 - Dived for submerged patrol 40 miles west of DAIKOKUZAN.
1541 - Sighted junk.
1620 - Sighted smoke bearing 327° T.
1839 - Surfaced and headed for smoke contact.
SHIP CONTACT NO. 4
1900 - Sighted two patrol craft bearing 315° T., range 10,000 yards. Tracked at zero speed. Avoided.
1922 - Closed coast north of DAIKOKUZAN.

— page 76 —
23 January

0609 - Sighted white light of fishing boat bearing 325° T.

0651 - Dived for submerged petrol southwest of O.S.I. TO.

0746 - Sighted first of three sampans that effectively sabotaged our periscope observations by closing to 3000 yards during morning, avoided only to close two sailboats who spoiled the afternoon.

1839 - Surfaced and sat course north along coast of KOREA for day-light submerged patrol off CHOPPEKI Ft.

1931 - Radar contact on sempan, range 4,150 yards. Came to evasion course and at -

1944 - Picked up two more sampans.

2105 - Lost contact with last of total of five fishing boats.

2126 - Changed patrol station to cover traffic lines from KOREA to SHANTUNG PRODUTORY along 37th parallel.

2345 - Received orders from UNDER.ODD to patrol same area until 27th.

24 January

0420 - Sighted light of fishing craft.

0705 - Div'd.

0916 - Commenced surface patrol. Snow flurries throughout the day.

1233 - -voided two sailboats.

SHIP CONTACT NO. 5

1500 - Sighted merchant ship bearing 070° T. distant 21,000 yards. Commenced tracking. Determined target base course to be 264° T., speed 8 knots.

1529 - At range of 16,000 yards went to periscope depth and commenced approach. Lost target in snow squall so came to radar depth and regained contact. Started in for bow shot, but with target very light in the water, chose stern tube shot (electrics aft) to realize better torpedo depth control at three feat setting.

— page 77 —
24 January (Cont'd)
1658 - Commenced firing four torpedoes from stern tubes at range of 720 yards, track 98' starboard, gyro 205', spread 150 feet between torpedoes. Attached two torpedoes hit, the first abreast of his stack, the second near his after mast. The target was an engines aft medium freighter, now as a 1945 dimes. Took pictures of hits and target rapidly settling stern first with the crew running two motor lifeboats (one on each side aft) with amazing clarity. -Hit parafect timing, the lifeboats cleared the damaged section which immediately broke off with a rending and tearing clearly heard throughout the ship and disappeared from view. The forward hell papped up like a cork, little the worse for loss of the working and of the ship. Opened out to 3000 yards and surfaced to give the men a look and finish off by gunfire. -Hit bridge force up and tanks partially blown, the target suddenly came to life with well directed 40mm gunfire from his bridge structure. Closered the bridge and fired one steam torpedo from #6 tube, doyth set 3 feet, run 3200 yards, 100 track, zero gyro. Attached torpedo crew rapidly operated and press just forward of his bow. -Hit shingles exploding on either side and ahead like firecrackers, ruptured hastily to plan next phase of campaign. Deadly to close at night and use the gun, so retired to north and east, than circled to northwest to put him up moon.

2055 - Battle stations gun action. Deck covered with ice. Ion had trouble toting shells from ready lockr. -Hit beautiful target silhouettes against horizon, ordered "Commence firing" at 6,000 yards, closing range. One shot was finally kicked out by hand; firing mechanism covered with ice and frozen or seafy pin inoperative. Target blinking a signal light to westward. Battles stations torpedo. Divod at 5000 yards, closed to 1000 yard torpedo run and fired one more steam torpedo at three feet setting with zero gyro and 80 starboard track. Torpedo bounced along like a porpoises but stright and true for the LOF. Didn't like to use three feet, but he was very high in the water and couldn't afford to have torpedo pass under. Hit at forward edge of bridge structure. Target commenced settling by the bow. Surfaced and retired to northwest, target bow completely under and after and roaring high. This ship was empty and hard to sink - their watertight integrity was excellent.

2308 - Set course for CHOPPIX Point.

25 January

0200 - Radio antennas heavily coated with ice the size of a baseball bat.

— page 79 —
27 January

0701 - Dived on traffic lane between DAIKOUZAH GUNTO and shoal water off CHINA COAST.

1003 - Surfaced. Abreoute to new patrol station off SHANGHAI. In passage, covered traffic lanes from southwest corner KONGA to CHINA.

1405 - Dived; "RUFE" plane due west of KOUZAH SHO TO.

1505 - Surfaced.

1700 - Passed heavy timber wreckage of wooden AK or sampan.

1840 - Received convoy contact report from POLPON with time group 1534, three hours old. Came to intercepting course on four engines. Seas abating with characteristic quick change. Moon full, scattered clouds.

2000 - Avoided two lighted fishing boats.

2107 - Avoided junk.

2325 - Avoided patrol boat.

2350 - POLPON corrected convoy position, course and speed.

2400 - Should have made contact; reversed course.

28 January

0032 - POLPON reported attacking from starboard.

0136 - SPADEFISH reported attacking from port.

0230 - Avoided patrol boat.

0238 - Sighted smoke column to southwest and heard two explosions. Came to course 180 at flank speed to intercept before targets could reach sanctuary of shoal water. Target speed was reported at 12 knots; speed of advance was 6 knots.

0250 - Two more explosions.

0255 - A terrific explosion with column of water high in the air - saturation radar pip at 31,500 yards.

— page 80 —
28 January (Cont'd)

SHIP CONTACT NO. 6

C302 - Radar contact bearing 099° T., range 19,200 yards. This ship was later determined to be a medium transport attempting to clear the scene of attack to westward, toward the shoal water.

C310 - Silhouetted by a full moon, clear sky, and calm sea, dived on targets track at range of 16,000 yards. Target plainly visible with the naked eye.

C340 - Sound reported distant echo ranging. Closed target at full speed to get in attack prior to arrival of escort.

C345 - Target changed course to northward. S.,hited escort coming up on port quarter of target with sharp port angle on bow. With range to target 5000 yards, escort (armed trawler type) closed to 1500, slowed, stopped ringing and took a sounding. Escort resumed echo ranging and sound reported that he was developing contact. Based toward him to reduce silhouette and tried to work around astern to get after the target who had slowed but was still opening out to the northwest. Crossing the bow of an alerted escort,with beam presented at 1000 yards was not considered either wise or healthy, particularly with 90 feet of water under the keel. Escort true bearing slowly drew through north and target pulled away into safety of shoal water. Cannot overtake prior to dawn and target reaching 10 fathom bank.

C504 - Surfaced 5 miles from 20 fathom curve. Sighted heavy column of smoke on horizon to southeast. Headed toward at flank speed suspecting a cripple.

C615 - Exchanged calls with FOLPON and SPADEFISH via SJ, former to north and SPADEFISH in direction of smoking ship. As we closed, ship was observed to be burning fiercely, throughout most of her length. SPADEFISH was standing by her victim.

C641 - avoided fishing boat.

C644 - avoided patrol craft or sampan.

C658 - Dived.

C738 - Sighted two trawlers, evidently returning from the scene of the attack.

— page 81 —
1045 - Commenced game of hide and seek with minesweeper similar to our "Bird" class. Least range of 2500 yards.

1218 - Lost sound contact.

1650 - Sighted wreckage of small wooden vessel (not result of attack on convoy).

1841 - Surfaced.

1855 - Sighted patrol craft to south.

29 January

Enroute to patrol station east of HANGCHOW BAY to intercept north-south traffic in East China Sea.

0049 - Sighted floating reef.

MINE # 1

0827 - Crossing Great Yangtze Bank thirty miles southwest of SOOOTRA ROCK sighted floating mine. Unable to sink it with 20cm.

MINE # 2

1043 - Detonated mine with 30 cal. machine gunfire.

MINE # 3

1110 - Sank mine with 30 cal. machine gun.

MINE # 4

1145 - Sank mine with 30 cal. machine gun.

MINE # 5

1315 - Sank mine with 20cm.

MINE # 6

1435 - Detonated mine with 20cm.

2145 - Commenced east-west patrol across East China Sea off HANGCHOW BAY.

-11-

— page 82 —
2352 - Floating mine was avoided by Officer of the Deck - passed thirty feet off the starboard beam.

30 January
0030 - Floating mine bounced disconcertingly down the port side of the ship, plainly heard by bridge watch and officers in wardroom.

1255 - Trim dive.

1334 - Surfaced.

SHIP CONTACT NO. 8

1703 - Sighted 2 PC boots on course northeast on line between LAN YIT and the EPIF, Proceeded down reverse of their track in the event that they were sweeping track.

1916 - Exchanged recognition signals and pleasantries with PIQUDA then departing area. SHIPADDS mention of necessity for keel-wheels and eight main engines seemed appropriate for this area. Following information from PIQUDA, closed CHINA CO.ST at YUSHAN LIGHTNO for submerged patrol at 20 fathom curve.

0639 - Radar landfall on NANYU SHAN, range 40,000 yards.

0705 - Commenced submerged patrol northeast of YUSHAN LIGHTNO; murky atmosphere, visibility poor.

1850 - Surfaced and proceeded up CHINA CO.ST close to 20 fathom curves.

1854 - Passed several lighted sampans.

1 February
0020 - Took departure from VIDEO ROCK for assigned area off SAISHU TO, conducting surface patrol of SHANGHAI - JIPIRE lane enroute. Delay in reaching SHANGHAI area caused by contact of 28 January precluded designed development of this area.

— page 83 —
1 February (Cont'd)
1. 1125 - Sank mine.
1. 1732 - Sank mine.
2. February
   - Surface patrol south of SAISHU TO. Weather has taken a marked turn for the worse. Sleet, snow and heavy wind and sea from north.
3. 1805 - Surfaced.
4. 2009 - Passed lighted sampan.
5. February
   - Submerged patrol west of SAISHU TO. Visibility fair. Two-thirds required to permit periscope observations.
6. 1901 - Surfaced and set course for station off CHINA COAST mud flats to intercept north-bound traffic enroute SHIPS.
7. February
   - Surface patrol between KOKUZAN TO and CHINA COAST 4 and 5 February. Weather continued unsettled with frequent snow and sleet squalls.
8. 1143 - Detonated mine.
9. 1155 - Sank mine.
10. 1900 - Using SJ, spoke GATO suggesting joint search across traffic lane with GATO 30 miles to north.
11. February
    - 0819 - Sank mine.

— page 85 —
1908 - Sighted nine close aboard but was forced to pass it by because of darkness. Concluded sweeping operations, hitched up the belt and patrolled lane until 2200, then departed for patrol off DAIKIYUKUAN GUNTO. This extensive area of floating mines is believed to be the direct result of heavy seas experienced for several days previous to sighting. The area is within the restricted zone south and west of DAIKIYUKUAN GUNTO. However, the Japanese ship movements have indicated disregard of the presence of an effective minefield since SPADISH and POLPOI contacts have hugged the northern extremity of the zone near Latitude 34° N.

2053 - Exchanged recognition signals with GATO via S.O.

6 February

AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 6

0812 - Dived from "EMIT" gliding at us from position 3 miles, 500 feet astern.

0813 - Received one light and distant bomb as we passed 90 feet. He broke through low overcast in good spot by chance or radar contact. 'Our ART watch was busy on 300-1000 mc band at this time. Demonstrates need for single, full range unit for adequate coverage to known Jap frequencies.

0930 - Surfaced in heavy snow squall and cleared area for reconnaissance of KOREA Coastal traffic at north end of BAIKOTSU SUDO.

2032 - Commenced repairs to 4 main engine outboard exhaust valve. Found valve disc retaining pin had backed out permitting disc to drop off operating arm into bottom of casing. This is a design fault and will be corrected next refit.

7 February

Surface patrol off southwest KOREAN COAST.

0010 - Radar landfall on ANEA GUNTO range 44,000 yards. Closed to 16,000 yards and took radar sweep of anchorage - all clear. Proceeded south just outside 10 fathom curve.

— page 86 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)
7. February (Cont'd)
0210 - DAIRGNOU TO light observed burning with normal characteristics although we were in an obscured sector according to the chart. This would indicate traffic to seaward of inter-island passages also.
0215 - SOUTHGHINHUSU TO light observed burning with normal characteristics.
0255 - KO TO light burning with normal characteristics.
0300 - Seaward course at north end of KAIKOTSU SUIDO and retraced path.
0430 - avoided petrol or fishing vessel off FITCHI TO.
0710 - Trim dive off OTO TO.
0751 - Nine depth charges in quick succession dropped by an unseen antagonist. These were not close enough to bother us, but were hardly distant enough to have been directed at one of the other boats.
1410 - Ficked up possible fathometer toward shore. Visibility poor.
1415 - Surfaced and closed coast. Snow squalls.
1436 - Sighted OTO TO, range 20 miles. Surface patrol south along coast.

SHIP CONTACT # 9
2112 - Radar contact on patrol or fishing vessel at same spot as last night - off PITCHI TO. Interference encountered both times on APR indicated possible presence of enemy radar that was not operating properly.
2200 - Proceeded to area west of DAIKOUZAN.

8 February
0115 - Received crl.ra from BANG to convoy her assigned area and our until 11th. Surface patrol off DAIKOUZAN.

SHIP CONTACT NO. 10
0455 - Encountered patrol vessel 40 miles northwest of KO TO. Wind and sea building up from northwest - typical north Atlantic winter night. Ice forming all over topside.

— page 87 —
8 February (Cont'd)
1115 - Trim dive. Enjoyed noon meal on plates instead of laps.
1313 - Surfaced.
2005 - Exchanged recognition signals with BANG via SJ.
9 February
Surface patrol on east-west traffic lane between DAIKOKUZAN GUNTO and CHINA CO.ST.
0726 - Dived.
0938 - Surfaced.
1015 - Weak APR signal 161 mcs.
AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 7
1049 - Dived on lookout sighting of "NELLI" bomber crossing astern at 8 miles, altitude 1500 feet. Two distant bombs.
1122 - Made preparations to surface and sighted "NELLI" bomber circling at 1000 feet.
AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 8
1327 - Again made preparations to surface and this time sighted "BETTY" bomber at 1-2 miles and 500 feet crossing astern. With very poor visibility conditions for spotting planes decided to remain submerged. Air patrol is increasing in this area.
1415 - Sighted sampan.
1845 - Surfaced and set course for DAIKOKUZAN to conduct submerged patrol. Surface patrol in the lane to west of DAIKOKUZAN GUNTO is becoming increasingly difficult and we are being spotted.
2020 - Sighted sampen.
2125 - APR signal on 161 mcs. This was identified as radar on KOKUZAN TO. Signal was fairly strong at 55 miles. No radar has been located on KO TO.

— page 88 —
0-N-F-I-D-Z-N-T-I-c-I
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)
10 February
Submerged patrol to west of KO TO.
11 February
0650 - Diverted, faster gyro oscillating ton degrees each side of meridian. Pulled sensitive element and removed sediment from damping circuit. Gyro back in commission by sunset.
SHIP CONTACT NO. 9
1215 - Sighted PC and small minesweep patrolling or sweeping.
1850 - Surfaced and checked master and auxiliary compasses by radar runs on KO TO; sky overcast.
12 February
CHINA CO.ST.
0943 - Trim dive.
1021 - Surfaced.
SHIP CONTACT NO. 10
1337 - Sighted single ship by periscope believed to be either destroyer or large escort vessel. Commenced and around tracking through periscope. Target on 5 minute lags, base course 290, speed 10.
1437 - .ith range 16,000 yards, target presented zero angle on the bow and held course for twelve minutes. Looked suspicious - TDC reported rough speed check of 14 knots.
AIRCRAFT CONTACT NO. 9
1456 - Quartermaster sighted either fighter or dive bomber coming in on starboard bow. (Cloud cover low and broken - we had double aircraft lookouts posted). Made one of our snappiest 4 engine dives to date and took two well placed bombs, one at 75 feet, the second at 125 on his next pass. It appeared to be a well co-ordinated "man and boy" combination so took evasion course at 2/3 speed. Shot ranging closing point of dive.

— page 89 —
0-0-N-F-T-D-Z-H-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)

12 February (Cont'd)
1812 - Five charges, none close. Echo ranging has disappeared.
1830 - Four charges.
1852 - Five charges.
1911 - Surfaced. APR signal on 155 mcs.
1935 - Signal very strong - dived.
1942 - Two explosions, not close. Hope he bombed the surface ship.
1956 - Surfaced. Closed KOSAN COAST to search along 20 fathom curve between SHOSEI TO and KAURAPPI Islands.

13 February
Submerged patrol on lane between SHOSEI TO and SHANTUNG.
1030 - Three distant explosions.
1922 - Surfaced, closed coast end resumed close in patrol along coast south of SHOSEI TO.
2157 - Observed SHOSEI TO light burning with normal characteristics but reduced intensity.

14 February
Submerged patrol of KAURAPPI.
1438 - Three distant explosions.
1451 - Two explosions.
1917 - Surfaced. Anroite south on three engines for rendezvous with China plane reported battleships. Ran close in south of OSETI TO still trying to nip some coastal traffic in this area.
1945 - Received position assignment from DANG.
2228 - Radar contact 5500 yards on two trawlers showing running lights.

15 February
Surface patrol anroite warmer climes.

— page 90 —
15 February (Cont'd)
0235 - Sighted DAIROROKU TO Light.
0245 - Sighted SCHICHIHATSU TO Light.
0413 - Sighted KO TO Light.
0643 - Trim dive.
0743 - Sighted KOKUZAN TO.

1243 - Detonated mine.
1306 - Sank mine.
1318 - APR signal 157 nsec.
1328 - Div'd on strong signal.
1408 - Surfaced.
1438 - APR signal 153 nsec.
1438 - Signal faded out. Sighted mine.

1545 - Detonated mine.

1550 - Div'd from "NELLI" bomber coming in from starboard beam at range of 5 miles, altitude 500 feet, bomb bay doors open. No bombs were dropped.

1640 - Sighted plane still circling overhead.

1923 - Surfaced. Increased speed to four engines to make up lost time.

— page 91 —
15 February (Cont'd)
2150 - Exchanged cells with U.S.S. SUNFISH via SJ.

16 February
Enroute assigned station for interception of warships.
0043 - Exchanged cells with U.S.S. BANG via SJ.
0651 - Dived for submerged patrol on station.
1103 - Surfaced to receive CHINA report. No information.
1144 - Dived.
1845 - Surfaced.

JUNE # 28
1905 - Avoided mine sighted dead ahead.
2125 - On receipt of new position report on task group, headed north on four engines.

17 February
0230 - Avoided lighted sampan.
0612 - Sighted SAISHU TO.
0622 - Dived for submerged patrol southwest of SAISHU TO.
1918 - Surfaced.
2020 - SJ radar interference - believed to be U.S.S. BANG.
2127 - Headed north on four engines for third reported enemy position.

18 February
Enroute DAIKOKUZAI at best speed to intercept new battleship position.

JUNE # 29
0127 - Struck mine with a jar that turned out a good percentage of the complement. It hit once near the stem, then bounced several times down the side busily exploring limber holes with its horns.
0207 - SJ interference on starboard quarter.

— page 92 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-2-N-T-I-A-I
B. NARRATIVES (Cont'd.)
18 February (Cont'd.)
0214 - Avoided fishing boat.
0235 - Second SJ interference on port bow.
0335 - SUNFISH contact report on three ships.

SHIP CONTACT NUMBER 13

0351 - Radar contact bearing 352° T, range 22,000 yards. Stationed tracking party and paralleled target. Three pipes, apparently 2 destroyers and 1 PC on base course 085° T, speed 19 knots. This was SUNFISH contact. Believe this is best picture of situation viewed in retrospect: SUNFISH was almost due west of ATU-10-15 miles, BANG was to southwest. None were in position to get in attack on contact so patrolled across track in hopes destroyers were advance unit of escorts for battleships and cruiser.

0636 - Dived for submerged patrol on line established by destroyers passage.

1328 - O.e distant explosion.

1357 - Surfaced. 0.e had covered 850 miles during our futile chase of this task group.

2053 - Spoke the U.S.S. JULIAO via SJ.

19 February

Submerged patrol off SAISHU TO.

1919 - Surfaced. Sent message to BANG diving results to date and requesting information on departure from area.

2030 - Received orders from CoSubPec to depart area and proceed hidway for refit.

20 February

Surface patrol departing area.

0930 - Avoided trawler on surface.

AIRFRONT CONTACT NO. 11

1255 - Dive from unidentified twin engine bomber.

— page 93 —
20 February (Cont'd)
: 1319 - Surfaced.
: 1430 - DANJO GUNTO APR signal 98 mcs.
: 2112 - APR signal 159 mcs.
: 2330 - Completed transit of NANSKI SHOTO, south of AKUSENI JIMA.

21 February
: 0325 - Spent two hours evaluating an aggressor's submarine who refused to acknowledge our recognition signal via SU. Finally sent japanese message to TILEFISH and BUFFISH to establish our identity and antagonize the Chinese.

: 0430 - APR signal 80 mcs. (A2AIT O SHIIA).

: 0915 - D-ved from "BESTY" 190 relative, altitude 500 feet, range 1g miles. 30 seconds later, depth 40', took one very close bomb - no damage. Low overcast with occasional breaks made aircraft sighting difficult. Three of our bombings have been from planes coming in low and close in very poor visibility as though they were on radar, although APR had no contact on any of them. One possible answer is their use of a higher frequency radar than those covered by our APR equipment. If this is true, the surface work is liable to be rough until we have coverage in that band.

: 1827 - Surfaced.
: 2035 - Received instructions from ComSubPac to proceed midway via Saipan for fuel.

: 22 to 25 February
    Anroute Saipan

— page 94 —
0-0-N-P-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)
26 February
0001 - Made radar contact on friendly escort carrier and two DEs and tracked group to 52,000 yards. Even SD radar made contact when the range closed to 8,000 yards.
0408 - Made rendezvous with escort, ICI 1063.
0408 - Moored alongside U.S.S. FULTON, Tanapag Harbor, Saipan.

28 February
0955 - Underway from U.S.S. FULTON, Tanapag Harbor, Saipan.
1730 - Released escort, YIS 292. Both inbound and outbound escort vessels were capable of maximum speed of 12 knots. It is realized that SAIPAN was stripped of fast escorts at this time; nevertheless this vessel was limited to two engine speed in dangerous waters, a situation that should be remedied.

1 to 7 March
Enroute Midway.
7 March
0830 Y - Conducted sound test in hidway lagoon.
0940 Y - Moored, Submarine Base, hidway.

— page 96 —
1-19-45: 27-14: Radio Subpiped
: 0924: 135-24: Trawler
: 1-21-45: 32-04: Two Trawlers
: 1644: 126-31: Patrol Craft
: 1-22-45: 33-16: Patrol Craft
: 0015: 125-03: Patrol Craft
: 1-23-45: 34-35: 2 Pcs
: 1900: 125-14: Engines aft AK
: 1-24-45: 36-47: Engines aft AK
: 1500: 123-59: Medium aP
: 1-28-45: 34-01: Medium aP
: 0302: 123-10: Recorbs.
: 1-28-45: 33-57: ITAK Class Mk
: 1045: 123-39: ITAK Class Mk
: 20,500: 264: P-SD: attacks #1 & 2
: 7,8: 7,8: P-SD: attacks #1 & 2
: 19,200: 250: R
: Var.: R
: 8,000: NE: JP
: 10: JP

— page 99 —
2-9-45 : 33-41.5 : 1 BCTTY : 1 mi : 120 : 500 : SD-P :
: 1330 : 124-10.5 :
: 2-12-45 : 36-44 : 1 F4rter : 1 mi : 135 : 400 : SD : 2 bombs
: 1456 : 124-05.5 :
: 2-12-45 : 36-57.5 : 1 Unknown : - - - - : 155 mcs
: 1932 : 124-16.5 :
: 2-15-45 : 32-20 : 1 NELL : 5 mi. : 060 : 500 : SD-P : Bomb bay doors open
: 1548 : 124-01 :
: 2-20-45 : 31-30.5 : BOTTY : 6 mi : 220 : 1500 : SD :
: 1205 : 127-48 :
: 2-21-45 : 20-05 : BCTTY : 2 mi : 060 : 500 : SD : 1 bomb
: 0915 : 131-23 :

— page 100 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-T-N-T-I-A-L
H. ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. ATLANTIC (SS403) TORPEDO ATTACKS 1 & 2 PATROL No 2
Time 1700 I, 23 January 1945 Lat. 36-47 N; Long. 123-59 E
2233 I, 23 January 1945

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

The target was a new engines aft medium AK traveling without escort. Contact was made by periscope at the maximum visible range of 21,000 yards. A submerged attack was made in which tubes 7, 8, 9, and 10 were fired for 2 hits which blew off the enemy's stern and left him down by the bow. Surfaced and attempted to finish him off with the gun. Enemy countered with a 40mm attack which drove us off. Made ready tube number 6 and fired it at 1720 I, but it missed ahead. Cleared area and returned after dark, again attempted to finish off bulk by gunfire. Deck gun refused to fire as result of extreme cold, however, so dived for moonlight submerged attack. Fired number 1 tube at 2233 I which hit anti-dolphins; hull commenced settling by the bow.

Ships sunk: One medium AK (2C) - 4,000 tons.

Damage determined by Target: had broken in half and stern fell off after first attack. When last seen after last attack, hull was vertical with midship section high in the air. Tough not seen to sink, target is believed to have either sunk or been damaged beyond possibility of salvage.

Target draft 61 Course 264 Speed 7.8 Range 750

ON SHIP DATA:

Speed 2 Course 350. Depth. 64' angle 1/2 up.

FIRST CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA.

First attack was a combined day surface radar-periscope approach on a simply zigging unescorted target. On surfacing after this attack, a single torpedo was fired by pointing the ship at the drifting hull, but it missed. The final attack was made after dark, firing a single bow torpedo submerged.

The torpedo fired on the surface broached and porpoised badly, but apparently ran straight.

— page 101 —
C-O-N-P-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-I-
H. ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)
Tube No. 7 8 9 10 6 1
Track Angle 110 S 114 S 118 S 122 S 130 S 90 P
Gyro Angle 213 211 225 235 0. 358-30
Depth Set 3 3 3 3 3 3
Mk 18 speed 27.7 27.7 27.7 27.7 High High
Hit or miss Hit Miss Hit Miss Hit
Mark Torp. 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1 14-3A 23
Serial No. 57030 56649 57042 54897 26681 62583
Mark Exploder 8-5 8-5 8-5 6-5 6-5
Serial No. 9693 9822 9810 1M01 25581 26076
Actuation Set (---CONTACT---)---
...ctuation Act. Cont. Cont. Cont.
Mk. Warhead 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 16-1 16-1
Serial No. 3176 3483 3575 3231 12250 12350
Explosive (---TORPEX---)
Firing Int. 0 13 10 13
Type Spread MOT 2251Att 751ahead 1501ahead
Sea Condition Calm.
Overhaul Act. U.S.S. BUSHNELL.

Remarks:
1. Latest speed reduction for shallow depth was used for
   Mark 18s. Torpedoes were fired three hours after
   completion of charge and no accurate information on
   electrolyte temperature was available. Injection was
   45° and 65° battery temperature was assumed, giving a
   torpedo speed of 27.7 knots. Torpedo run of 1000 yards
   was used in TDC on basis of a ping range taken just
   before firing. Duration of run on first hit was 45
   seconds, on second hit 5s seconds. Both hits were
   well aft of point of aim. Post-firing analysis
   indicates ping was a second echo and that actual run
   was about 650 yards.
2. Duration of run for steam torpedo was 50 seconds, TDC
   run about 1000 yards.

-31-

— page 103 —
0-0-I-F-I-D-3-I-I-T-I-A-L

J. ANTI-SUBMARINE LEAKS AND EVASIVE TACTICS

Nothing new was encountered except a possible increase of small patrol craft. The "man and boy" team of fighter plane and destroyer encountered on the afternoon of 12 February probably misfired an excellent chance after they had sucked us into a trap. Had the plane held up his attack until we had closed the destroyer a bit more, our evasion would have been much more difficult in the four hour counter attack which followed.

During first half of patrol, considerable day surface patroling was possible across shipping lanes. Each successive attack by one of the pack or disclosure of the many subs in the area through radio transmissions caused a marked increase in tempo of aircraft coverage in all kinds of weather. . .all planes were believed to be radar equipped.

K. MAJOR DEFECTS

A. Main engine Outboard Exhaust Valve.

On the evening of 6 February, it was discovered that the outboard exhaust valve for No. 4, Iain Angus would not register shut on the Christmas Tree, although the valve operating mechanism was operating properly. Investigation on the topside showed that the linkage had become disconnected allowing the valve to drop to the bottom of the casing. The flapper valve is connected to the linkage by means of a 6-1/2" pin (Po J4, Ports, Plan No 5117-351) passing through two eyes in the top of the valve and held in place by a castellated nut and cotter. The cotter had sheared; the nut backed off, and the pin came out allowing the flapper to drop free.

In order to prevent reoccurrence, it is suggested that the pin (Po J4) be lengthened to allow addition of a locking nut. This nut and the pin should be drilled for a larger cotter.

L. RADIO - SOUND

Radio reception in the YMDG SA was generally good. NPL faded badly on all frequencies in early morning until inception of simultaneous keying at GUAK which greatly improved reception during that period. No difficulty was experienced in maintaining a complete file of ConsubPac serials. The greatest difficulty copying Sub Fox was poor quality of transmission caused by improperly cut tape or faulty keying relays. . .all Pack frequencies were satisfactory (Transmissions of Packs in practically all areas were copied including SOSesPac subs), but to many unnecessary transmissions were observed. Examples: Int' 53, SV, etc.

— page 105 —
1-20 : 150 : 1000 : 10 : 29-54 : None
1715 : : 131-40 : : weak signal - for 10 seconds.

1-20 : 159 : 1000 : 10 : 29-54 : None : weak signal - for a few seconds.
1945 : : 131-00 : : medium signal - for periods of several minutes.

1-20 : 148 : 500 : 12 : 29-55 : None : weak signal - for periods of several minutes.

2030 : : 130-38 : : weak.

1-20 : 159 : 500 : 10 : 30-10 : 5 : weak.
2300 : : 130-10 : : Strong signal - heard intermittently.

1-20 : 155 : 1000 : 12' : 30-10 : Unk. : weak to strong for varied intervals over a period of 3 hr. - Possible aircraft.

2320 : : 130-05 : : Very weak - for a few seconds. Rotating antenna - located on DANIO GUNO.

— page 107 —
2-5-45 : 153 : 1000 : 10 : 33-16 : None : 2-5-45 : 154 : 1000 : 12 : 23-25 : None : 2-5-45 : 155 : 500 : 10 : 34-35 : None : 2-5-45 : 157 : 1000 : 7 : 33-45 : None : 2-5-45 : 156 : 1000 : 7 : 33-20 : None : 2-5-45 : 242 : 1000 : - : 30-09 : Unk. : 2-5-45 : 80 : 500 : 20 : 29-06 : None : 2-5-45 : 157 : 500 : 10 : 23-19 : Unk : 2-5-45 : 157 : 0640 : 130-54 :

— page 108 —
0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-I

N. SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Performance of sonic and supersonic gear was up to expectations. Because of the few ship contacts and relatively small amount of time spent submerged, however, not enough information was obtained to generalize on sound conditions in this area. Marine life background noise were markedly quieter than those encountered in tropical waters.

O. DENSITY LAYERS

There are no density layers in the YELLOW SEA during the winter months.

P. HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY

No remarks.

Q. PERSONNEL

Number of men on board during patrol: 77
Number qualified at start of patrol: 44
Number qualified at end of patrol: 73
Number of unqualified men making first patrol: 5
Number of men advanced in rating during patrol: 17

R. MILES STRAINED - FUEL USED

MAJURO to SAIPAN 2430 mi. 29,460 gal.
SAIPAN to AREA 1920 mi. 22,120 gal.
In AREA 5733 mi. 51,992 gal.
AREA to SAIPAN 1830 mi. 24,640 gal.
SAIPAN to MIDWAY 2455 mi. 32,280 gal.
TOTAL 14,478 mi. 161,492 gal.

S. DURATION

Days enroute MAJURO to SAIPAN 9
Days enroute SAIPAN to AREA 6
Days in AREA 30
Days enroute AREA to SAIPAN 8
Days enroute SAIPAN to MIDWAY 9

TOTAL 62

Days Submerged 13½

-38-

— page 111 —
3/3
From: 3/3
To: 3/3
Via: 3/3
Subject: 3/3

The Commander Submarine Division THREE TWENTY-ONE:
The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Fleet.
(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. ATULE (SS 403) - Report of Second War Patrol.

1. The second war patrol of the ATULE, conducted in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea, was of 62 days duration with 30 days spent in the area. The ATULE was part of a coroninated attack group along with the U.S.S. SPADEFISH (SS 411) and U.S.S. POMPON (SS 267) with the commanding officer of the CRADEFISH, Commander G. W. UNDERWOOD, U.S. Navy, as group commander.

2. Prior to arrival in the area, ATULE conducted a fruitless search for downed aviators. This search was hampered by incorrect radio conditions and was abandoned when it was reported that position was not definitely established.

3. There were thirteen contacts with enemy vessels, but unfortunately most were patrol craft, and physical contact with two. 23 mines were sunk, in some cases at uncomfortably close ranges.

4. On 24 January, while on surface patrol, a unescorted medium AK was sighted and attacked from perfect position. Four electric torpedoes were fired with a 700 yard run on a 98" starboard track for two hits. The vessel was broken in two and the after part sank immediately. The forward section remained well afloat and ATULE surfaced at 3000 yards to sink it with gun fire. Well directed 40MM fire from the target caused a change of mind and one steam torpedo was fired from 3200 yards on a 100" track, which missed ahead, ATULE retired to await darkness. At 2055 that night with target silhouettes against the horizon, another gun attack was started. This was frustrated due to ice covering firing mechanisms so ATULE submerged for another torpedo approach. A single steam torpedo, fired from 1000 yards, with a depth setting of 3 feet hit just forward of bridge. ATULE surfaced and retired as bow of target settled and after part reared high in the air, on 28 January, after closing a POMPON contact report, a smoke column was sighted and explosions heard. Sight contact with a medium transport was finally developed, but an escort hampered the approach, and ATULE was unable to gain attack position before dawn. Target gained shock water and ATULE commenced approach on another smoke column. This proved to be a fiercely burning ship with SPADEFISH standing by, so ATULE retired.

— page 112 —
8 March 1945
Serial: (020)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. ATULE (SS 403) - Report of Second War Patrol.

On 12 February, while attempting an end around on a destroyer or large escort, positions were reversed when target needed for ATULE from a range of 16000 yards. Shortly thereafter a low flying plane forced submerged and a coastdiate surface vessel - plane attack resulted, but no damage was sustained.

On 16 February a night radar contact at 22000 yards, on three vessels, tracked at 19 knots and could not be closed.

5. ATULE returned from this long patrol clean and in good material condition. Refit by ELLIAS and Submarine Division THREE TWENTY-TWO Relief crew will be accomplished in the normal time.

6. The Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew of the ATULE are congratulated on the completion of this arduous patrol, which resulted in the destruction of a new enemy vessel.

SIGNATURE: R. WATERMAN

— page 113 —
35-12N-125-45E
Serial: 031
C-O-N-P-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
11 March 1945.

SECOND ENQUIRY to
AVUL Report of Second Patrol.
War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. ATULE (SS409) - Report of Second War Patrol.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the complete remarks of the Commander Submarine Division THIRTY-TWO.

2. The ship sunk on 23 January has been subsequently identified by the commanding officer and two other officers as a new AK of the type illustrated on p. 8 and 9 of "Weekly Intelligence" Vol. 1, No. 21. It appears that the ships of this type have excellent compartmentation.

3. It is recommended the ATULE be credited with the following damage to the enemy on her second patrol.

SUNK
1 - Medium AK (EC) 6,670 tons (Attack Nos. 1 and 2)

4. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, Officers, and crew of the ATULE upon the completion of this well conducted successful second patrol and upon the sinking of another valuable enemy ship.

K. C. HUNJ.

— page 114 —
19 MAR 1945
NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE DESTROYED PRIOR TO ENTERING PATROL AREA.

SUBJECT: 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. ATUL (SS403) - Report of Second War Patrol (6 January 1945 to 7 March 1945).

1. The second war patrol of the ATUL made the command of Commander J. H. Maurer, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the Yellow Sea (SS411), the U.S.S. POTON (SS267), and the U.S.S. JALLAO (SS368) formed a coordinated attack group with the commanding officer of the SPADEFISH as group commander.

2. With excellent area coverage the ATUL made numerous contacts but most of them were small ships. Her aggressive, tenacious attacks on 23 January sent one of the new standard Japanese merchant vessels to the bottom.

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 for this aggressive, successful patrol. The ATUL is credited with having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy during this patrol:

SUNK

1 - Medium AK (New Standard Type) (EC) - 6,700 tons (Attacks Nos. 1 & 2)

MERRILL COSTOCK.

Authentication & distribution on following page.

— page 115 —
11/10/45 (18) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0566
COMPLIMENTAL
THIRD REPORT TO
AULIE Report of
Second Var Patrol.
COMSUBSC P/ATROL REPORT NO. 691
U.S.S. AULIE - SECOND VAR PATROL.
Subject: U.S.S. AULIE (SS403) - Report of Second Var Patrol
(6 January 1945 to 7 March 1945).

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
[7]
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— page 116 —
SS/43/A16
Serial 06

C-O-CLASSIFIED
U.S.S. ATLANTIC (SS/43),
Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.,
30 May 1945.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Division 181
       (2) The Commander Submarine Squadron 18
       (3) The Commander Submarines, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. ATLANTIC (SS/43), Report of War Patrol Number THREE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject report.
(B) Track Chart (for Consubmarine only).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the third war patrol of this vessel, conducted in the DINGO SUIDO Area during the period 2 April to 30 July 1945 is forwarded herewith.

J.H. LAURER

DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED-ANT. 0415, OPM/WINST 5510.10
BY-OF-0949C, DATE 5/3/42

DECLASSIFIED

— page 117 —
0-N-P-I-D-N-T-I-A-I

A. PROLOGUE

Arrived Submarine Base, 1idway, from Second War Patrol on 7 March 1945; Received a fine refit by SubDiv 322 and the U.S.S. FELIAS. Major alterations accomplished: installation of DODI, 40mm gun, new type torpedo tube stop bolt, booster blower and air conditioning coils in supply duct in the Control Room. Received routine drydocking.

Conducted training exercises from 24 to 28 March with Condr. J.A. WATERMAN as training officer. Sound training and evasion exercises, air-sea rescue and the firing of six exercise torpedoes all contributed to a most beneficial training period. The divided and multiple fire exercise torpedo attacks and a surprise torpedo attack during a battle surface firing were particularly excellent training and were voted by all hands to be the best ever conducted.

Readiness for sea on 1 April was delayed one day because of the unsatisfactory condition of both evaporators. Work done on evaporators by refit activities at Lajuro and at 1idway has not been satisfactory.

B. NARRATIVE

Officers and CRO's on board - Patrols

| Officer | Name | Rank | Date |
||------|------|------|
| Commander J.H. LAURER, U.S.N. | 9 | 7 | 3 |
| Lt. Condr. P.A. SCHRAIZ, U.S.N. | 7 | 3 | 1 |
| Lt. J.H. HUDSON, U.S.N.R. | 3 | 1 | 3 |
| Lt. H.F. CHURCH, Jr., U.S.N.R. | 1 | 3 | 6 |
| Lt. E.G. WODMARD, U.S.N.R. | 3 | 6 | 3 |
| Lt. (jg), C.N. PETTIT, U.S.N.R. | 6 | 3 | 4 |
| Lt. (jg), F.A. OTHUS, U.S.N.R. | 3 | 4 | 1 |
| Lt. (jg), G.O. OISON, U.S.N.R. | 1 | 4 | 1 |
| Ensign D.G. PERRY, U.S.N. | 3 | 8 | 3 |
| Ensign W.J. ANDRES, Jr., U.S.N. | 1 | 8 | 3 |
| DAVIS, H.A., Cpl.(T), U.S.N. | 3 | 8 | 2 |
| FRENCH, N.L., Cpl.(A), U.S.N. | 12 | 2 | 3 |
| HOLAND, D.L., Cpl.(PA), U.S.N. | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| SEATON, R., Cpl.(T), U.S.N. | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| STIRING, A.L., Cpl.(A), U.S.N.R. | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| STRINGER, J.S., Cpl.(PA), U.S.N. | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| ZEEMAN, S., Cpl.(A), U.S.N. | 3 | 3 | 3 |

2. to 11 April

1500 Y - Departed 1idway enroute GUAY, conducting daily fire control and gun drills. Felium filled balloons with aluminum foil streamers made excellent targets for radar controlled gunfire, and aided by perfect weather, gun drills were instructive and enjoyable. Improvement in accuracy with the new 40mm was particularly apparent.

— page 118 —
11 April
0531 K - Made rendezvous with escort, U.S.S. DENPSEY (DE 26).
0845 K - Loored alongside U.S.S. HOLLAND, APRA Harbor, GUARD, Comdr. C.B. JACKSON, Executive Officer HOLLAND, was particularly accomodating.
12 April - All subsequent times ITEM (-9) unless otherwise noted.
1400 - Underway from APRA Harbor, GUARD, enroute patrol area off BUNGO SUIDO.
Plan for area coverage adopted in conference with C.O. GATO called for ATUES covering west approach plus coast of KYUSHU, and GATO east entrance during first half of period on station, then switch. However, nineteen lifeguard missions for ATUES alone and many for GATO, necessitated some departure from this plan. Good coverage of BUNGO SUIDO entrances was realized throughout patrol.
1700 - Released escort SC 1070.
13 April
1200 - 1st. 16-09 N; Long. 140-33 E.
14 April
1200 - 1st. 19-42 N; Long. 137-40 E.
15 April
0550 - Exploded floating mine by gunfire.
1200 - 1st. 24-40 N; Long. 137-45 E.
1300 - Observed five minutes of silence as memorial tribute to the late President 2005SXSLT.
2030 - APR contact 210 mcs. Observed unfamiliar interference on SJ bearing 285 T. Cans to intercepting course at four engine speed. The night was calm and clear, fulfilling all the requirements for phenomenal radar ranges, but at the end of two hours all was has was experience. True bearing veered erratically indicating possibility of several transmitting stations. Since we are on I.O-OKINA'A routes and frequencies indicated are probably friendly, gave up the search on arriving at the edge of the air-Surface Zone.

— page 119 —
0-0-N-P-I-D-J-N-T-I-A-L

B. NARRATIVE

16 April

0400 - Commenced phase II of the search. Interference now bearing 270° T. Tracked for one more hour and added nothing to our store of knowledge gained.

0505 - Sank auxiliary gas tank with 20mm fire.

0525 - Exploded possible PERSIMMON type mine. This very large six horned mine made a most tremendous explosion, rattling shrapnel off the topside like hail on a tin roof. (LINE # 2)

1200 - Lat. 29-25 N; Long. 136-43 S.

2325 - Received orders for lifeguard station tomorrow 30 miles to the southeast.

17 April - Surface patrol on lifeguard station.

1120 - Exchanged calls with B-29 air cover.

1200 - Lat. 3C-02 N; Long. 135-01 E.

1658 - Signed 2 PSH's coming in on our port quarter, and simultaneously intercepted the following transmission on the voice radio:

#1 PSH: "See that sub down there?"
#2 PSH: "No. Has he flashed recognition signals?"
#1 PSH: "No. Let's find out who he is. Follow me!"
#1 PSH: (to sub): "Hello, Hello, do you hear me?"
#2 PSH: (suddenly spotting our dunbo coming in on his tail): "J--- Ch---, there's a B-29!!"
#1 PSH: (forgetting about sub): "Hello there, big boy! I hope you know we're friendly".

1702 - Exchanged calls with PSH's.

1915 - Completed lifeguard duties.

2000 - Observed the usual nightly concert of AFR signals to the southwest, now believed to be definitely emanating from U.S. Ships in the OKINAWA area. Believe these signals also may have been same as those reported by SSN/STI and FIUDA as indicating enemy shipping to south.

18 april

0035 - Dived to flush out #4 iBT.

0046 - Surfaced.

— page 120 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

5. NARRATIVE:
0136 - Aircraft contact on SJ range 6700 yards. Dived. Planes dropped flare just as bridge was cleared.

0209 - Surfaced.

0545 - Dived.

0714 - Surfaced.

1205 - Sank floating mine by gunfire.

1200 - Lat. 31-30 N; Long. 132-50 S.

1240 - Dived.

1900 - Surfaced.

2235 - Submerged for 155 mc. saturation pip, closing, keying rapidly and employing antenna switching.

2259 - Surfaced.

2300 - SJ radar contact bearing 350° T, range 12,000 yards. Strong 155 mc. signal and concentration on same bearing. Commenced tracking.

2310 - Problem solved; course 090°, speed 10, constant helm zigzagging on 5 minute lags, 45° each side of base course. Interference now looks like SJ; no reply to challenge.

2325 - Range 8000; no reply to challenge. Saturation pip at 155 mc., but interference is definitely SJ.

2340 - Received first challenge from THRADFIN. Exchanged calls and finally cleared up the mystery. The 155 mc. signal is short based, just beyond THRADFIN on same bearing. Closed and exchanged area dope.

Urgent instructions to boats on correct use of recognition signals and necessity for experienced operator on the SJ key during exchange of signals should be broadcast. Only about one out of ten boats can be contacted and identified quickly and properly, simply because the operator uses a pot procedure scheme, sends with the speed of a radio operator, or is a novice on the key.

19 April

0000 - Received orders cancelling lifeguard station tomorrow.

— page 121 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-Z-N-T-I-A-I

B. NARRATIVE

0511 - Div'd.

0940 - Surfaced in rain squall and low visibility. Made surface sweep of west approaches to BUNGO SUIDO.

1110 - Visibility increased to 15 miles. Div'd.

1200 - Lat. 32-27 N; Long. 131-57 E.

1920 - Surfaced.

20 April

0056 - Div'd for 2 engine bomber zooming down starboard side close aboard. Half moon, surface haze, no APR signal.

0130 - Surfaced.

0510 - Div'd.

1200 - Lat. 32-21 N; Long. 132-59 E.

1923 - Surfaced.

21 April

0500 - Div'd.

0600 - Surfaced on lifeguard station 12 miles south of OKINO SHIYA.

1050 - Completed lifeguard duties. Submerged.

1200 - Lat. 32-27 N; Long. 132-28 E.

1923 - Surfaced.

22 April

0511 - Div'd.

0740 - Surfaced on lifeguard station 12 miles south of OKINO SHIYA.

1000 - Completed lifeguard duties. Headed for point south of ASHIZURI SAKI for submerged patrol.

1030 - Div'd for unidentified aircraft contact.

-5-

— page 122 —
22 April

1200 - 1st Lt. 32-24 N; 123-43 E.

1810 - Sighted blur which may have been a submarine against a land background. Closed at high speed but only one more observation was made before it disappeared. Contact doubtful.

1955 - Surfaced.

23:15 - Received strong 160 m.p.h. APT signal. Swung ship and found bearing to be 090-270. Commenced rapid pursuit eastward but signal diminished. Reversed course, steamed west at high speed but signal almost disappeared entirely. -gain swung ship with same result as the original. Repeated part I, phase II, and then came to a southeast intercepting course, but signal was still inconsistent. APR throughout had a battery of additional contacts on all the known shore and air frequencies contained in the publications on board, and corrections thereto, plus a few illegitimate which we didn't have time to even bother about.

Radar Officer finally pushed his glasses back on his forehead and came down with the brilliant idea of shielding the antenna to determine directivity. Suiting action to words, he was soon atop the shears shadow boxing with a three foot square sheet of aluminum. In the eerie light of a three quarter moon, our gyrations would have looked most peculiar to an outside observer, but the practical results obtained were still negative.

2233 - Problem solved. Received the following report from the 3rd radar: "Radar contact -- - - b e a r i n g - - 0 - - 6 - - 5 - - - range - - six - - - ton - - - thousand - - yards

— page 123 —
1200 - Let. 32-06 N; Long. 131-57 E.
1914 - Surfaced.
24 April
0119 - Sighted plane close aboard to starboard. Plane simultaneously dropped a flare. Dived.
0209 - Surfaced.
0500 - Secured surface racer to close coast undetected.
0540 - Sank floating mine.
0651 - Sank floating mine.
0702 - Dived in entrances to VAB DIESEL STREET.
1200 - Lat. 30-58 N; Long. 131-16 E.
1256 - Surfaced to entice some fresh Japanese air into the boat.
1302 - Dived.
1920 - Surfaced.
2146 - Dived for saturation AFR signal, keying and switching antennas.
25 April
0003 - Surfaced.
0250 - Plane on SJ radar, range 6000 yards. Dived.
0425 - Surfaced. Secured radar to close coast for submerged patrol.
0715 - Dived 15 miles off O SHIJA. Closed to 2 miles off the beach and still saw absolutely nothing in the way of life except terraced farmland on the hills. A seaplane base is supposedly only four miles away.
1200 - Lat. 31-29 J; Long. 131-28 E.

— page 125 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-S-N-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE
27 April
2138 - Surfaced.
2202 - SJ radar contact on plane, range 2000 yards, closing to 1400 as we dived.
2215 - Surfaced.
2326 - Saturation pip on AR from at least 6 aircraft. Single ping on SD checked nearest at 8 miles. Dived.
28 April
0110 - Surfaced. APR signals still with us.
0342 - Dived. SD check range 10 miles. Finally decided we are directly in the path of planes raiding OKINAWA from KYUSHU airfields, and each wave of planes has chased us down as they went by.
0539 - Surfaced.
0730 - On lifeguard station.
1200 - 1st, 31-02 in; Long, 132-56 Z, Completed lifeguard duties and headed north to give GATO a hand in a search for survivors southeast of TOI ISAKI.
1333 - Recovered life ring with name KIDD on it. Lany small arms ammunition boxes were also seen in the area. (Believe destroyer life ring).
1620 - Commenced search plan in vicinity of downed aviator.
1838 - Passed floating mines to starboard. (LING # 11)
1840 - Received orders to proceed to position of B-29 survivors, 200 miles to the southeast. Headed toward at best speed.
1848 - Sighted GATO surfacing astern of us.
2126 - Dived for aircraft heard and seen very close aboard. No APR indication.
2157 - Surfaced.
29 April
0115 - Dived for two strong saturation APR contacts keying rapidly.
0155 - Surfaced. Signals still strong.

— page 126 —
0-N-P-I-D-Z-N-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE

29 April

0530 - Commenced search for survivors. Sea flat calm, weather heavy.

0748 - Sighted SPOT to westward. Closed and exchanged plans for co-ordinated search.

0940 - DUBBO plane cover reported raft in sight and vectored us on intercepting course.

1005 - SPOT joined in hot pursuit. Receiving continuous amplifying reports from B-29.

1125 - DUBBO plane came down for a chock observation and reported raft was another submarine (TRUTA); resumed search of area.

1200 - Lat. 29-10 N; long. 134-56 E.

1400 - POGY reported recovering 10 aviators - 50 miles to eastward.

1900 - Exchanged calls with POGY by SJ radar.

30 April

Continuing search for aviators, aided by B-29.

1200 - Lat. 29-04 N; long. 134-32 E.

1 May

Searching for aviators aided by three B-29s.

1200 - Lat. 29-03 N; long. 134-08 E.

2015 - Received orders to discontinue search and proceed to new lifesquad station.

2 May

1125 - Dived to enjoy a quiet noon meal.

1200 - Lat. 30-54 N; long. 133-59 E.

1331 - Surfaced.

1400 - Lifeguard station cancelled.

1727 - Dived.

— page 127 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-3-N-T-I-A-L

E. NARRATIVE

2. May

1740 - Surfaced.

1741 - Dived.

1745 - Surfaced.

3. May

0400 - Secured SJ radar and closed coast for submerged patrol.

0450 - Dived 10 miles south of OKINO JIMA. Closed OKINO then turned east to ASHIZURI SAK. Noted at least one new factory along coast, radio, radar station, gun emplacements, and barracks behind ASHIZURI peninsula.

1200 - Lat. 32-40 N; Long. 132-52 E.

1930 - Surfaced.

2327 - Dived for plane on SJ radar, range 5000 yards.

2339 - Surfaced.

4. May

0613 - Twenty miles south of ASHIZURI Light with perfect visibility, seas rough, port lookout sighted enemy submarine on the surface bearing 193° T, range 6 to 8 miles, angle on the bow 45° starboard. AP signal came in suddenly and strong signal on 153 mcs. Enemy character was immediately verified by C.O., Exac., and O.O.D. as we dived to attack. Came to normal approach at full speed. Two looks revealed a radiol course change to his left and a special of twenty knots. That's all we got from our one and only contact during the patrol. This boy had neither just surfaced or was trying to gain position ahead of us for attack. The former seems more likely, since the AP signal came in suddenly and strong and our periscope watch did not pick him up. Paint job same as ours, cherriot bridge with covered front and no shears. He either dived or cleared area to west and south on visual contact. It looked good for a minutes, but he wasn't to be caught napping.

0620 - Surfaced and crossed SUIDO to west hoping to cut him off from another approach into the east channel. He are fortunate in being between him and port anyway.

1115 - Dived.

— page 128 —
0-0-H-F-I-D-E-I-D-E-I-T-I-E-I-L

E. NARRATIVE

4. JET

1200 - 1at. 32-04 N; Long. 132-28 E.

1455 - Surfaced.

1755 - Divcd.

1913 - Surfaced.

5. JET

0419 - Divcd for plane contact on APR, verified by SD at 9 miles.

0730 - Surfaced on lifeguard station 12 miles south of OKINO SHIMA.

0759 - Divcd for a JAH and a RUF who apparently still didn't get the word on the air strike.

0855 - Sighted DUMBO B-29 plane cover. Surfaced.

AUTO-DUMBO CONFIRMATION ATTACHED #1. ONE JET DESTROYED

1000 - Sighted JAH and RUF coming in on starboard beam. DUMBO was opening out on the port beam at this time. Immediately reported orange to him by WIF, and received acknowledgment as was dived to periscope depth to watch the show. The JAH passed almost directly overhead, close enough for us to distinguish the type of tail fins on the bomb between his flots. In the meantime, the DUMBO had gone to Battle Stations Gun action, spun the big ship around like a fighter plane and charged into the fray. Used by the sight. The RUF began investigating conditions in an adjacent area, leaving his teammates to tackle the monster clone.

The flight was short and unequal, and the panzermen through the periscope was not the most unforgettable of the war as the scene unfolded, low over the water and less then two miles away. The C.C. at the periscope was constantly firing a play-by-play account throughout the ship over all combatting systems - mostly by direct voice.

1006 - The hitting, waving JAH received one short and devastatingly deadly burst from the 3-29 (tracers plainly visible), burst into flames aft, and crashed into the sea in a shot of flame from the exploding bomb and gasoline.

1009 - Surfaced. DUMBO thanked us for the assist and depart for home.

— page 130 —
1020 - Reached scene of crash. One survivor was calling for help, but of the remaining two one had been completely decapitated, and the other was dead and floating face downward in the gasoline covered water. The survivor, Lt. M.S. KONIWA, a naval observer, was pulled past the grisly body and floating head of his teammate and hauled aboard. He was suffering from shock, second degree burns of the face and hands, flesh wounds in the neck and arm, and gunshot or crash wounds in his right ankle. How he even escaped alive from this exploding plane is amazing in itself.

The numerous pockets in the clothes, uniform and lifejacket of our English and German speaking P.O.W. provided a wealth of printed matter including identification, seven packs of J.S. and one of British cigarettes, calling cards, ration books, club tickets, diary, notebook, flight record, and, of prime importance, two magnetic detector traces and notes concerning them. A thick wad of currency, a vial of perfume and several condoms showed he was ready for any eventuality.

This time schedule of this action is rather unusual since the total action from initial sighting, including diving, the attack, surfacing and the rescue covered only twenty minutes.

1135 - Detonated floating mine.

1144 - Divad.

1200 - Let. 32-16 N; Long. 132-21 S.

1400 - On preparing to surface, saw a J.K.S patrolling or searching. He was subsequently sighted three times more at fifteen minute intervals, on N,S,Z, or N' courses.

1840 - surfaced.

1900 - attempted to send serial two to OmbusPac but could not get it through on any frequency.

2230 - SJ redder contact on aircraft, 7000 yards. .voided on surface. .aircraft radar chock showed two planes.

2325 - Finally completed radio transmission via Rdo. Admiralty Islands.

6 May

0445 - Divad on 100 fathom curve south of .SHIZURI S.KI.

— page 133 —
10 May

0435 - Div'd.

0435 - Surfaced on lifeguard station 12 miles south of OKINO SHIKU, witnessed the awe inspiring sight of a sky full of monsters on all courses, speeds, and dispositions as wave after wave formed to go over the target. This was subsequently reported as the greatest raid made to date (and surpassed very shortly after).

1100 - DUBO cover reported no services required.

1150 - DUBO from south KUSHU area reported plane down in Inland Sea, 70 miles inside BUNGO SUIDO. Requested check of position.

1200 - Lat. 32-19 N; Long. 132-41 Z.

1210 - Position verified. At our request DUBO proceeded to vicinity for a search.

1255 - DUBO reported all clear. Resumed surface patrol.

1419 - Div'd.

1629 - Surfaced.

1322 - Sank floating mine.

0140 - Div'd.

0316 - Surfaced on lifeguard station.

0945 - Complied lifeguard duties. Set course for vicinity of SPRINGER's station to help him out during this afternoon's reid, if necessary.

1030 - Sighted single engine, single wing. Fighter plane four miles ahead. Div'd.

- 16 -

— page 141 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-Z-N-T-I-A-L

J. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND NAVAL TACTICS

With the exception of air patrols (see AIR CONTACTS) there were no anti-submarine measures of any sort encountered in the BUNGO SUIDO. In fact, the enemy was extremely hospitable throughout our stay, since no bombs or depth charges were ever heard and no apparent objection was made to our almost continual surface patrol, apparently B-29 and carrier strikes to wipe out enemy air power during this period combined with the complete lack of any shipping activity in the area gave submarines a very low Crosley rating on the enemy's nuisance list.

K. LAND DEFECTS AND DAMAGE - None.

I. RADIO - No remarks.

A. RADAR -

SU RADAR - Dependable performance was given by this equipment throughout the patrol. Frequent "second trace" echoes were obtained on high peaks on KURSHU with ranges up to 185,000 yards.

A multivibrator was developed by ships, force to give accurate navigational ranges up to 125,000 yards by introducing delays in steps of 0, 40 and 80 thousand yards in the range pulse, operated by a three position switch.

Component failures aside from the usual TR tube replacements were:

(a) P.P.I. cathode ray tube; cathode filament short,
(b) Sealing gasket in feeder unit; due to excessive tightening of four holding nuts during refit.

SD RADAR - A single pulse (8 micro sec.) keying system was developed by Ship's force to reduce the possibility of detection upon surfports with maximum range of 26 ranges of 3 to 12 miles were obtained upon surfports with maximum range of 26 miles.

This system when used in conjunction with the SJ radar and APR gave quite effective protection from enemy aircraft while in area. Consistent ranges of 6 miles or better were obtained on various types of enemy aircraft.

N. SOUND CREAK AND SOUND CONDITIONS - No remarks.

O. DENSITY LAYERS

No uniform or consistant density layers were encountered in the BUNGO SUIDO. area, largely because the patrol was conducted mainly on the surface. A negative gradient of 3 to 4 degrees was found at 200 feet on a few occasions but not regularly enough to be predicted beforehand.

— page 143 —
4-16-45: 135-30: Swamp: Source undetermined. : 1/4
0330: 29-56: : 1/4
4-17-45: 159: 500: 12: 134-34: : Source undetermined. : 1/4
1830: 30-07: Slow : 1/4
4-17-45: 155: 500: 7: 135-00: Sweep : Possibly shore based. : 1/4
1800: 30-07: : 1/4
4-17-45: 98: 500: 15: 134-55: : Shore based. : 1/4
1900: 30-07: : 1/2
4-17-45: 160: 500: 12: 134-55: : Possibly shore based. : 1/2
1900: 30-07: : 1/2
4-17-45: 138: 500: 12: 134-55: Sweep : Possibly shore based. : 1/2
2215: 30-28: Irregular: : 1/4
4-17-45: 115: 500: 10: 134-31: Sweep : Source undetermined. : 1/4
2340: 30-40: : 1/8
4-17-45: 152: 500: 7: 134-19: Scuddy : Continuous signal : 1/8
0520: 31-00: Regular : 1/8 (-)
4-18-45: 210: 500: : 132-30: Sweep : Source undetermined. : 1/4
0500: 32-22: Irregular: : 1/4
4-19-45: 160: 500: 7: 132-05: Sweep : Source undetermined. : 1/4
0515: 32-22: : 1/3
4-19-45: 103: 500: 17: 132-05: : Probably shore based - soon faded out. : 1/3
0945: 32-25: : 1/4
4-19-45: 155: 500: 10: 132-31: : Kaying - Probably aircraft. : 1/4
0945: 32-25: : 1/6
4-19-45: 98: 500: 15: 132-31: Sweep : Same shore based radar listed above. : 1/6
1000: 32-31: Regular : 1/4
4-19-45: 158: 750: 40: 132-04: Sweep : Shore based - wide beam. : 1/4
1100: 32-31: : 1/4
4-19-45: 103: 500: 12: 132-01: : Shore based. : 1/4
2300: 31-58: : 1/4
4-19-45: 155: 500: 7: 132-04: : Shore based. : 1/4
2400: 32-00: : Probably located on East Coast of KYUSHU. : 1/4
4-19-45: 138: 500: 12: 132-57: : North of TOI LISAKI. : 1/4

— page 147 —
5-3-4-5 : 157 : 250 : 20
1920 : 32-39 Regular
5-3-4-5 : 157 : 250 : 20 : 133-17 : Sweep : Shore based.
1925 : 32-39 : Slow : Shore based - Detected previously -
5-3-4-5 : 98 : 750 : 50 : 133-17 : Sweep : Strongest at this position.
2100 : 32-45 : Probably aircraft - keyed irregularly for a
5-3-4-5 : 159 : 500 : 10 : 133-32 : Regular.
2100 : 32-45 : Regular.
5-3-4-5 : 152 : 500 : 12 : 133-32 : Sweep : Shore based.
0200 : 32-10 : Shore based - hard previously - strongest at
5-4-4-5 : 77 : 350 : 40 : 133-04 : " : this position.
0300 : 32-10 : Slow : Same as above.
5-4-4-5 : 97 : 350 : 15 : 133-10 : Sweep : Same as above.
015 : 32-18 : Irregular : Enemy submarine sighted 15,000 yards -
5-4-4-5 : 153 : 500 : 7 : 132-58 : Sweep : Divod on contact.
0900 : 32-31 : Shore based - pulsating signal as though
5-4-4-5 : 96 : 500 : 20 : 132-55 : Steady : lobe switching.
1520 : 32-02 : Regular : Probably shore based.
5-4-4-5 : 100 : 400 : 15 : 132-19 : Sweep : Probably shore based.
1520 : 32-02 : Slow : Probably shore based.
5-4-4-5 : 156 : 400 : 12 : 132-19 : Sweep : Probably shore based.
1520 : 32-02 : Probably shore based.
5-4-4-5 : 159 : 400 : 12 : 132-19 : " : Probably shore based.
1520 : 32-02 : Probably shore based.
5-4-4-5 : 138 : 400 : 20 : 132-19 : " : Probably shore based.
1915 : 22 : 32-15 : . : ossibly aircraft - keyed irregularly-pulse broken:
5-4-4-5 : 157 : 1000:ictal : 132-10 : . : into 4 narrow pulses 5 msec. apart.
2000 : 32-17 : Regular.
5-4-4-5 : 99 : 255 : 25 : 132-11 : Sweep : Shore based.
2130 : 32-23 : Shore based.
5-4-4-5 : 77 : 200 : 25 : 132-22 : " : Shore based.
0000 : 32-27 : Slow : Shore based.
5-4-4-5 : 75 : 400 : 50 : 132-45: Sweep : Shore based.
0000 : 32-27 : Shore based.
5-4-4-5 : 98 : 500 : 40 : 132-45 : " : Shore based.

— page 152 —
3-20 : Slow
: 3-12-17 : Irregular: Shore based.
: 3-22-23 :
: 3-12-19 : " : Source undetermined.
: 3-22-29 : Regular :
: 3-12-45 : Shallow: Shore based.
: 3-22-29 :
: 3-12-45 : " : Shore based.
: 3-22-29 :
: 3-12-45 : " : Shore based.
: 3-12-45 : " : Shore

— page 153 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-Z-N-T-I-A-I

U. RADIO AND RADAR COUNTER MEASURES.

Only enemy radar countermeasures were the possible DF-ing of the SJ radar, as indicated by several night plane contacts which gave no APR indications.

All APR contacts with definite information are reported here. All signal strengths are given with APR gain set at maximum, and APA gain on (5), the "no-signal triggering point for the trace". Signal strength figures represent fraction of saturation for strongest signal observed. For the sake of more complete coverage, little effort was made to obtain exact sweep rate of antennas.

As a result of difficulties encountered trying to DF a possible enemy sub APR (160 mcs) contact, a portable reflector and adjustable dipole was constructed by ship's force. This assembly mounts on the forward TBT with portable coaxial antenna lead. The arrangement was not completed until near the end of the patrol and on limited tests available, fixes were obtained on an enemy shore installation 98 mcs. signal and on two friendly air borne 168 mcs ABK radiations. A test on the highway Island 106 mcs installation, gave bearings accurate to within about 15° on either side. However, a permanent, positive directional antenna system is badly needed.

V. RELAY ARMS

The fighting OTTOLEK keenly regretted the lack of an opportunity for a shot at Jap shipping this time even though the patrol consisted almost entirely of services to aviators. This absence of enemy activity was more than borne out by the complete lack of a contact of any sort except the long submarine, despite more than 6300 miles covered in the Jap's own background in an area the size of a hatbox. Even considering the great attrition done to enemy supply lines at this stage of the war, it was still believed that we would at least get a crack at a patrol vessel or at the flagship of the sampan fleet to try out our new 40mm gun and new 5" ammunition. Disappointment among the gun club boys was particularly keen.

In fact, sentiment was strong for touching off a pyrotechnic display near the end of our time in the area, to stir up some activity, even if we had to send the whole island of KYUSHU to general quarters to do so.

The twenty-one mines destroyed this trip brought the DISL43's total to 44 out of 52 encountered in the last two patrols to give us the undisputed championship in the Submarine Sweepstakes, a charter membership in the United line Workers Union, and the honorary crown in the Order of the Four Horned Sea Serpent.

— page 155 —
7. The high state of morale and training of this fine ship is reflected in the general cleanliness and smartness of the ship and her crew upon return from this patrol. The Division Commander congratulates the ATULS on a well conducted, heads-up patrol.

C. C. BURLINGAME

— page 157 —
10(4)/416-3(18) SUBMARINE FORCES, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 01435
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
17 June 1945

CERTIFICATE OF
AUTHORITY TO
THIRD WAR PATROL
CONSIDERATION:
U.S.S. ATLANTIC REPORT NO. 777
U.S.S. ATLANTIC - 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. ATLANTIC (SS403) - Report of Third War Patrol
(2 April to 30 May 1945).

1. The third war patrol of the ATLANTIC, under the command of Commander J. H. Maurer, U. S. Navy, was conducted off Bunao Suido, in addition to offensive patrol the ATLANTIC performed lifesaver duty.

2. ARA coverage was thorough and the patrol was well conducted. Only one contact, worthy of torpedo fire, a large Japanese submarine, was made; but, unfortunately, it could not be closed for attack. On 5 May the ATLANTIC acted as a fighter director and succeeded in vectoring a B-29 Dumbo plane onto a Japanese plane on anti-submarine patrol. The ATLANTIC had the pleasure of watching the enemy shoot down. A Japanese naval officer from this plane was taken prisoner.

3. A ward 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 ATLANTIC on this well planned, heads-up, and smart patrol.

DISTRICTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7) | Consubspac (3)
CIC (5) | ConsubspacadCom (40)
Cinepac (5) | ConsubspacSubordCom (3)
JICPC (1) | ConsubspacSubordCom (3)
adICPC (1) | ConsubspacSubordCom (3)
Comservpac (1) | Consubspac, Pacific (2)
Cincant (1) | Consubspac (5)
Consubsant (8) | Substraipac (2)
S/A School, NL (2) | Consubspac, Pacific (1)
CO, S/A Base, PH (1) | Consubspac (1)
Comospac (2) | Consubspac (1)
Comoswespac (1) | Consubspac (1)
Consubs7thPIt (Fwd Echelon) (2) | Consubs7thPIt (Rear Echelon) (2)
Comorpac (1) | Consubspac (1)
W. S. LANGLEY, (2) | Consubspac (1)
Astr. Flag Secretary.

— page 158 —
55403/416
Serial 010

C-O-DECLASSIFIED:

From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) Commander Submarine Division 104
       (2) Commander Submarine Squadron 10
       (3) Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
       (4) Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. ATLANTIC (SS403) – Report of WAR PATROL NUMBER FOUR.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart (For ConsubPac only).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the FOURTH WAR PATROL of this vessel, concluded in 1945 and 1946, and lifeguard in vicinity of NAPO SHOOT, during this period 3 July 1945 to 25 August 1945, is forwarded herewith.

DECLASSIFIED
J.H. HARRIS
DECLASSIFIED
BY: OP-000C
DATE: 5/27/42

— page 161 —
0630 W/W - Departed Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, (From 0657 to 1315 moored to degaussing pier, Beckoning Point, Pearl Harbor, HI.)

In passage to SAIPAN, conducted daily fire control, section diving training, gun drills with home made radar targets, and instruction of new personnel. Twin 50 cal. topside stowage ready lockers proved satisfactory and twin aircraft mounts are a potent short range weapon.

2000 W/W - Escort SC 1165 departed.

2219 W/W - First of four friendly radar contacts at 29,000 yards. Avoided.

4 JULY - 1200 POSIT - 20-52.5 N; 163-03 W.

0012 W/W - Recognized U.S.S. SPADEFISH.

1131 W/W - Recognized U.S.S. SSA DOG and U.S.S. CREVILLE.

2215 W/W - Recognized U.S.S. SSA LION.

5 JULY - 1200 POSIT - 21-07 N; 168-58.5 W.

6 JULY - 1200 POSIT - 21-31.5 N; 174-26 W.

— page 162 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-Z-N-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE
7. July - 1200 POSIT - 21-41.5 N; 179-51.5 W.
1229 W - Crossed International Date Line at Lat. 21-42 N; changed date to 8 July.
9. July - 1200 POSIT - 21-35 N; 173-52 E.
0351 L - Radar contact on first of 4 U.S. merchant Ships. Avoided first three but under-estimated ability of lookouts on number four.
0618 L - Ship opened fire with forward and after guns at range of 12,000 yards.
0620 L - Dived.
0708 L - Ship clear - surfaced.
10. July - 1200 POSIT - 21-33 N; 168-38 E.
11. July - 1200 POSIT - 20-54.5 N; 162-45.5 E.
12. July - 1200 POSIT - 19-45 N; 157-35 E.
13. July - 1200 POSIT - 18-51 N; 152-45 E.
14. July - 1200 POSIT - 17-36 N; 146-34 E.
0500 - Changed to ZONA -10 time - all times now KING.
1425 - Jancfall on ALABAGAN ISLAND bearing 270 T., distant 45 miles.
1736 - First aircraft contact since departure, Pearl Harbor. 8 B-29's bombing CUBAN ISLAND.

15. July - 1200 POSIT - SAIPAN.
0045 - Radar contact 17,000 yards. Stationed tracking party and tracked two friendly ships, course 350 T., speed 14.
0525 - Rendezvoused with SC 1046.
1045 - Stopped port side to U.S.S. SANDANCE in nest alongside U.S.S. ORION at TANAPAG HARBOR, SAIPAN.

— page 163 —
16 July - 1200 POSIT - SAIPAN
    : 16 July - 1200 POSIT - SAIPAN
    : 17 July - 1200 POSIT - SAIPAN
    : 17 July - 1200 POSIT - SAIPAN
    : 18 July - 1200 POSIT - 17-11.5 N; 144-07.5 E.
    : 18 July - 1200 POSIT - 17-11.5 N; 144-07.5 E.
    : 19 July - 1200 POSIT - 20-15.5 N; 144-23 E.
    : 19 July - 1200 POSIT - 20-15.5 N; 144-23 E.
    : 20 July - 1200 POSIT - 24-07.5 N; 139-25 E.
    : 20 July - 1200 POSIT - 24-07.5 N; 139-25 E.
    : 21 July - 1200 POSIT - 26-45.5 N; 139-23 E.
    : 21 July - 1200 POSIT - 26-45.5 N; 139-23 E.
    : 22 July - 1200 POSIT - 30-57 N; 139-29 E.
    : 22 July - 1200 POSIT - 30-57 N; 139-29 E.
    : 23 July - 1200 POSIT - 31-35.5 N; 139-20.5 E.
    : 23 July - 1200 POSIT - 31-35.5 N; 139-20.5 E.
    : 2313 - Received information on air cover provided for strike 24th.

- 4 -

— page 164 —
24 July - 1200 POSIT - 29-57 N; 139-27 E.
On: Ifeguard Station.
0825 - Recognized U.S.S. SPRINGER.
2242 - Received message assigning air cover for 25th. No business for ATUZ - many planes overhead all day.
25 July - 1200 POSIT - 30-03.5 N; 139-12.5 E.
On: Ifeguard Station.
0029 - Checked radars on SOPU GAN.
0500 - Striked TORI SHINA.
1034 - Strike cancelled.
2201 - Received instructions for 26-27 July strikes. We are again far south of any activity and getting restive.

26 July - 1200 POSIT 30-25.5 N; 139-23 E.
On: Ifeguard Station.
1239 - Message from the boss to shift further south. POSIT 29-30 N; 139-30 E. No business for ATUZ.
27 July - 1200 POSIT - 29-44.5 N; 139-35 E.
On: Ifeguard Station.
0631 - Recognized U.S.S. TENCH and BILIFISH.
0928 - Completed transfer of motion picture films with TENCH. This represented our initial underway trial of breeches buoy slung from sheers. Total load transferred was 105# in a single carry. Despite fouling lines and minor operational difficulties, the rig looked promising for transfer of personnel in heavy weather.
1754 - Received instructions for strike 28-29 July. ATUZ position 29-00 N; 139-30 E.

— page 165 —
0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
B. NARRATIVE
28 July - 1200 POSIT - 30-04 N; 140-29.5 E.
On Lifeguard station.
1410 - Tested 5" with one round on SDFU GAN.
2140 - Received instructions to remain on present station for additional strikes.
29 July - 1200 POSIT - 28-59 N; 139-22.5 E.
On Lifeguard Station.
1732 - Recognized U.S.S. PIPEPISH.
2150 - Received new position for strike 30 July - 29-20 N; 138-30 E.
30 July - 1200 POSIT - 29-20 N; 138-36 E.
0800 - arrived assigned lifeguard station 29-00 N; 138-30 E.
1525 - Received word of one mustang pilot down at POSIT 30-32; 137-35, 95 miles north and west of ATUNE station. Proceeded at best speed toward position at same time trying to get through to ComSubPac, info Liaison Iwo Jima, requesting permission to enter air-surface zone. Search plane making initial contact with survivor, dropped boat and departed due to gas shortage. Our cover orbited survivor, then returned to escort ATUNE when he was relieved by passing DUEBO. Paralled message to ComSubPac with similar request to Iwo Jima via voice using cover as relay station. Operation of own surface forces in vicinity and location of survivor in air-surface zone made permission mandatory. Could not raise any ship-shore station on primary or secondary frequencies, or any harmonics thereof, nor Iwo Jima on 3310 kcs. Two and one half hours from survivor and entering air-surface zone, received word from T.O. Liaison to clear to eastward, surface ship would make rescue.
Voice communications with all air-sea rescue units was excellent with particular praise to our cover PSY-2 Plans #7-478, PLANTS #1. Thus endeth our first and only opportunity to do our stuff during ten days in the big league. Was gratified to learn DD yicked up pilot next morning.
1614 - Welcomed orders from ComSubPac to depart National League bleachers and proceed ARMS ONE, TWO, and THREE for co-ordinated patrol with U.S.S. ARCHERFISH and GATO, Commander ENRIGHT, ARCHFISH co-ordinating.

— page 166 —
30 July (Cont'd)
, 2400 - Received ARCHERFISH First assigning areas and rotations. Enroute assigned AREA 3.
31 July - 1200 POSIT - 31-26 N; 139-32 E.
Enroute AREA 3 via west side of NANPO SHOOT ISLAND CHAIN.
0625 - Sighted TORI SHINA 089 T., distant 46 miles.
1117 - Sank mine; Lat. 31-20 N; Long. 139-32 E. KINE #1
1215 - Sighted SUMI SU SHINA.
1620 - Sighted ADBA SHINA 027 T., distant 19 miles.
1711 - Intercepted plain language position of survivor broadcast by Plane 23V191 to HADDOCK. Pilot showed ATUL to be 50 miles from position - we could reach by dark. Exchanged information on own position, course and speed with HADDOCK and told him the report didn't look authentic; meanwhile headed for the best speed. Plane 23V191 had violated security but departed area and our only alternative was verification of contact by plane 10 X-RAY 091. Attempted for 20 minutes to get plane to answer our challenges or authenticate his message, but, he never did either to our HADDOCK's satisfaction; apparently he didn't know how. Plane 23V191's violation of instructions: mentioned position, raft, gibson girl and mirror - all plain language!
1736 - Sighted Liberator search plane circling low dead ahead.
1855 - Sighted HADDOCK on converging course bearing 330 relative.
1926 - Raft in sight. HADDOCK went alongside and recovered survivor. This was second time in two days ATUL was set for rescue, but had to play second fiddle. Resumed course and speed for AREA 3 with parting well wishes to the HADDOCK.

1 August - 1200 POSIT - 34-30 N; 141-47 E.
Enroute AREA 3.
1334 - Exploded mine; Lat. 34-43 N; Long. 141-43 E. KINE #2
1838 - Exploded mine. Lat. 35-25 N; Long. 141-39 E. KINE #3

— page 168 —
1525 - Sank mine, Lat. 37-28.5 N; 141-30.5 E.
: 1554 - Sank mine, Lat. 37-30.5 N; 141-29 E.
This one could possibly have been moored. We were in 75 fathoms with restricted areas to north and south. Desided to get back on the 100 fathom curve.

5 August - 1200 POSIT - 38-24 N; 141-46.5 E.
Surface radar patrol in dense fog 10 miles off coast between KINKASAN and GSU SAKI.

1136 - Fog lifted. Dived.

1907 - Surfaced.

2051 - Received orders for lifeguard station off southeast coast of HOKKAIDO.

6 August - 1200 POSIT - 38-26 N; 141-46.0 E.
Closed KINKASAN for submerged patrol.

0740 - Dived 8 miles off.

1927 - Two aerial bombs; not intended for us.

AIRCRAFT CONTACT NUMBER TWO

1940 - Sighted two IRVING light bombers at range of 2 miles heading south along coast.

1950 - One more aerial bomb.

2020 - Surfaced. Set course for AREA ONE and lifeguard station.

7 August - 1200 POSIT - 41-04 N; 144-03.5 E.
Enroute AREA ONE and lifeguard station.

1157 - Sighted possible small craft. Dived.

1216 - Surfaced. Object identified as wreckage.

1220 - Put man aboard pilothouse of ex-lugger. Nothing found.

— page 169 —
0-N-F-1-D-3-N-T-I-A-L

B. NARRATIVE

8 August - 1200 POSIT - 42-53 N; 145-37 E.

On lifeguard station 18 miles south of BOKKIRISO WAN. No strikes due to weather. Patrolled along 30-40 fathom curve during night south of BOKKIRISO WAN.

9 August - 1200 POSIT - 43-04 N; 145-37 E.

On lifeguard station. Dense fog no strikes our area. Closed coast and patrolled 7-8 miles off.

10 August - 1200 POSIT - 42-51.N; 145-48 E.

On lifeguard station. No strikes this area. Closed coast and patrolled 7 miles off between KUSHIRO and AKKESHI.

11 August - 1200 POSIT - 43-07 N; 145-36.5 E.

No lifeguard assignment.

0412 - Dived. Submerged patrol off BOKKIRISO WAN.

1757 - Sighted bamboo pole with triangular flag at POSIT 43-07.5 N; 145-42 E.

2011 - Surfaced.

12 August - 1200 POSIT - 42-49 N; 144-22 E.

Lifeguard assignment cancelled.

0547 - Commenced submerged periscope radar patrol 7 miles off coast on 50 fathoms curve, southeast of KUSHIRO, coastline just visible through light rain.

0940 - JP sound contact or single ship at 326 T. Periscope radar range of 8000 yards, target outline visible but unable to identify.

0954 - Surfaced to maintain contact, target alternately in sight and obscured by rain. Commenced tracking, maintaining position on port quarter at 9,000 to 12,000 yards, using periscope radar. Target on course for KUSHIRO, 15 miles distant, or course to pass close to south of port.

1030 - Second radar contact in company with first. New target took station to starboard and forward of original. Same size pip. Two zigzagged to westward at 13 knots along 20 fathom curve.

— page 170 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-3-N-T-I-A-I

B. NARRATIVE

8 August - 1200 POSIT - 42-53 N; 145-37 E.
On lifeguard station 18 miles south of BOKKIRISO WAN. No strikes due to weather. Patrol led along 30-40 fathom curve during night south of BOKKIRISO WAN.

9 August - 1200 POSIT - 43-04 N; 145-37 E.
On lifeguard station. Dense fog; no strikes our area. Closed coast and patrol led 7-8 miles off.

10 August - 1200 POSIT - 42-51 N; 145-48 E.
On lifeguard station. No strikes this area. Closed coast and patrol led 7 miles off between KUSHIRO and AKKESHI.

11 August - 1200 POSIT - 43-07 N; 145-36.5 E.
No lifeguard assignment.

0412 - Dived. Submerged patrol off BOKKIRISO WAN.

1757 - Sighted bamboo pole with triangular flag at POSIT 43-07.5 N; 145-42 E.

2011 - Surfaced.

12 August - 1200 POSIT - 42-49 N; 144-22 E.
Lifeguard assignment cancelled.

0547 - Commenced submerged periscope radar patrol 7 miles off coast on 50 fathom curve, southeast of KUSHIRO, coastline just visible through light rain.

0940 - JP sound contact or single slip at 326 T. Periscope radar range of 8000 yards, target outline visible but unable to identify.

0954 - Surfaced to maintain contact, target alternately in sight and obscured by rain. Commenced tracking, maintaining position on port quarter at 9,000 to 12,000 yards, using periscope radar. Target on course for KUSHIRO, 15 miles distant, or course to pass close to south of port.

1030 - Second radar contact in company with first. New target took station to starboard and forward of original. Same size pip. Two zigzagged to westward at 13 knots along 20 fathom curve.

— page 171 —
12 August - (Cont'd)

1045 - Target plainly visible in lifting visibility - Identified as PF-UN 2. Opened range and commenced ticklish game of hide and seed in rain. Analyzed the situation as follows:
1. Targets were definitely passing KUSHIRO and were enroute MORORAN hugging coast.
2. Study of coast revealed no adequate port or anchorage to hole up in at night.
3. A day-light submerged attack was possible but risky due to shallow waters.
4. If we could maintain contact throughout day, ARCHERFISH and GATO might be coached into position to join the attack after sunset.
5. Water in vicinity of URAKIRO were excellent for interception. Target speed would place them there at 2100 to 2200 - this spot could be reached by ARCHERFISH and GATO.

1242 - Called ARCHERFISH and GATO four times on area frequency, reporting contacts. No responses.

1300 - Sighted floating mine. Lat. 42-45 N; 143-57 E. Passed by to for this business in hand.

1319 - Led progressively into shallow water in order to maintain contact, depart 7-7-6 hours, rode into contact. Shortly thereafter the visibility improved, suddenly, sighted the FRIGATE, angle on the bow ZERO, range 10,500 yards. Passed hit list him when he presented minimum silhouette. Turned away all east on speed, but too late. He poured on the coal, and the range began to close slowly as we brought our tired and true FABRICIENO. Up to 5000 m. Target clocked at 18 knots, range drops to 7,000. Then began to open slowly as we edged toward fit water for cannon fire or defensive submerged maneuvers.

1350 - Rain closed in. Lost target which slowed to 15 knots and gave up the chase. His situation had looked anything but promising when the range he commenced closing all too rapidly. Proceeded at full speed to arrive at selected. Interrogation position off URAKIRO by 2030.

1545 - Cleared contact report to CommSubSea for relay to ARCHERFISH and GATO. No trouble this time, message was receipted for in ten minutes - nice communications.

1715 - Rounded ARNO SAKI on 100 fathom curve.

— page 172 —
12 August - (Cont'd)

2030 - In position 15,000 yards off coast. ST radar interference, which soon disappeared. Set a listening watch on the SJ in case he had shifted - no interference; shifted back. After 1/2 hour and no ST interference, the C.O. was chewing nails wondering if the stranger didn't expect us and had submerged. With this in mind, knowing he couldn't see by periscope, we again shifted to SJ and immediately caught a sweep of his interference - we just hadn't covered his keying interval the first time.

2115 - Exchanged recognition signals and calls with GATO. Skipper HOLDEN, very graciously, shifted to westward to give us first crack if our contact materialized.

2315 - With hope of contact all but abandoned, our adversaries arrived. They were in same formation, outboard ship 2800 yards slightly on port quarter of the other, cruising at 10 knots along 100 fathom curve - no radar - no pinging.

2350 - Battle Stations Torpedo.

13 August - 1200 POSIT - 41-26 N; 142-39 E

0007 - Sent contact report to GATO, still no answer - wondered if they were on this area frequency. Told him we were attacking.

0008 - Commenced end around from starboard bow to port quarter. Seas were making up, state 3-4, and we had to get a cross or down sea shot at 3 foot setting.

0013 - Readied six tubes forward, two aft and started in from 3650 yards; very dark night. Was endeavoring for position to fire three torpedoes at each target, but the set-up was poor when targets zigged right presenting 165 port tracks. Pulled clear at 2700 yards, shut the outer doors, thought the situation over and opened out and ahead for another try.

0105 - Received quite a start when we picked up SJ radar interference in the direction of the targets. Was this the GATO? At the same time, the JAPS burst into full cry on 500 kcs.

0111 - Started our second pass from 4500 yards. Had settled for a shot at the near target with 4 fish instead of a greedy try for both, assistant approach Officer, Lieut. Comdr. DUDLEY, PO, reported a nice overlap and suggested 6 torpedoes.

— page 173 —
13 August (Cont'd)
015 - With torpedo runs of 2400 to 1850, gyros 006 to 358, fired six torpedoes, depth set 3 feet, 85 port track, spread 100 feet along track. Target in sight; our PF of the morning.

017 - One hit, #2 torpedo (run 21-15!), exploded the near ship with a beautiful orange flame, ammunition display and flying debris.

0120 - Two more explosions (run 41-20! and 51-20!), source unknown, but possibly #2 target (torpedo run and plot checked for torpedoes #5 and #6), followed by a terrific blast (depth charges of sinking ship) that lifted the water from ATL to sinking ship 1800 yards away, as though the entire ocean bed had let go.

0123 - Second target commenced a display that immediately put him in the escort category. Turneaay was to keep clear of gunfire.

0129 - Gunfire ceased. Lost radar contact at 8500 yards; contact not regained. It is possible that we sank second target or that he had run in to the beach to fire. No. Italian is made for sinking. Had not tracked him because we were busy checking new contact which turned out to be GATO. No hops GATO can help us out on this one. SJ radar interference indicated his presence near scene of attack.

0130 - Commanded reload.

0209 - Our 165 mile chase had been amply rewarded. We departed for our life-guard station tired but happy to get back in the ball game. It had found no fault with our launch 18-21's with an injection temperature of 55° F., and 3 foot setting in a rough sea - all ran hot straight and normal.

0145 - Div'd. Shifted torpedoes forward.

1455 - Surfaced. Heavy weather, apparently we were on the fringe of the typhoon passing to southeast.

14 August - 1200 POSIT - 42-50 N; 144-37 E.

0843 - Div'd for periscopes radar patrol 7 miles off coast to southeast of KUSHIRO. Coastline visible intermittently through light fog.

1000 - Weather cleared.

— page 174 —
1855 - Fog settled along coast. Surfaced. Patrolled to northeast along 30 fathom curve.

: 15 August - 1200 POSIT - 42-33 N; 144-57 E.

    Submerged patrol on 100 fathom curve. First clear day in area.

: 1125 - Surfaced to receive the news of surrender. Can't believe it - Stayed on surface waiting confirmation.

: 1530 - Cease firing order from ConsBusPac.

: 16 August - 1200 POSIT - 41-46 N; 144-36 E.

    In AREA ONE.

: 2130 - Received orders to proceed Pearl Harbor, via Midway.

: 2154 - Armoury, Midway.

: 17 August - 1200 POSIT - 40-24 N; 145-56.5 E.

: 19 August - 1200 POSIT - 37-55 N; 165-55 E.

: 20 August - 1200 POSIT - 32-43.5 N; 170-30 E.

: 1707 L - Sighted 3 carrier based planes.

: 1820 L - Exchanged cells with U.S.S. FANSHAW BAY (CVB), one of group of two escort carriers and two DDG.

: 21 August - 1200 POSIT - 30-08 N; 177-24 E.

: 2330 L - Crossed International Deto Line.

: 21 August - 1200 POSIT - AT MIDWAY.

: 0440 Y - Sighted KURE ISLAND bearing 095 T., distant 14,000 yards.

: 0443 Y - Radar contact on KURE ISLAND. If relying on radar for contact, we would have been high and dry on KURE RISER. Screen'does not give sufficient range when approaching from west or reef side of island.

— page 175 —
21 August (Cont'd)
0530 Y - Sighted U.S.S. POGY.
0600 Y - Planes escort arrived.
0700 Y - Sighted MIDWAY TO/ER.
0833 Y - Loored starboard side to Pier Sail 9 at Submarine Base, Midway, T.H.
1503 Y - Underway for Pearl Harbor.
2145 Y - Radar and sighting contact on even merchant ships.
2243 Y - After a fruitless attempt to cross ahead at full power, accepted the fact that their line of bearing formation had me licked; put my stern to, turned on the running lights (as they had), came about and passed through their formation without any show of emotion on their part.

22 August - 1200 POSIT - 24-11.5 N; 173-47 W.
23 August - 1200 POSIT - 22-18.5 N; 167-58.5 W.
24 August - 1200 POSIT - 20-57.5 N; 162-34 W.
25 August -
    Q450 Wi - Rendezvoused with
    1009 Wi - Loored port side to Sail 4, U.S. Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

— page 176 —
0-N-F-I-D-F-N-T-I-A-L

C. WEATHER

In general, the weather was very good throughout the patrol. ARSA ONZ and ARDA THREE in mornings, were characterized by fog or heavy-overcast with smooth seas. No star sights were obtained from 7 August until after departure from the area. The only exception to calm seas occurred on 12 and 13 August, when typhoon weather was in evidence.

D. TIDAL INFORMATION

No tidal information was obtained. Currents were in accordance with the charts in all areas.

E. NAVIGATION AID

In the NANGO GHOTO AREA, navigation was conducted by means of star sights, Loren on stations 4-N-4 (OKINAWA - IWO) and 2-H-2 (GUAI), and landfalls on the various islands. In AREA THREE, Loren, sun lines, and ST radar were the principal means. In AREA ONZ an excellent Loren line of position on 4-H-4, giving longitude, was obtainable at all times after dark. This, combined with the sharply defined 100 fathom curve, provided good fixes outside of ST radar range. Loren was used to check ST positions inside the 100 fathom curve. The Loren is the best aid to navigation yet developed. No serious doubt as to our position existed except when well south of the 100 fathom curve in AREA ONZ, and there only the latitude could be far off; - this in spite of ten days without a sun or star sight.

The absence of a "SUSIT" was felt. It is believed that with LORAN, a "SUSIT" and "SSI" radar, the necessity for star sights will be practically eliminated.

Very tall radio towers were noted to the westward of BOKKIRISO SAKI (Lat 43-10 N; Long, 145-31 E) which, in good visibility would make excellent aids. They could not be accurately plotted in and did not appear on any charts on board. No navigation lights or other aids were observed.

F. SHIP CONTACTS

| No. | Type | Estimated | How |
|-----|------||------|
| 1   | PT-UN 2 (20) | 290 | 8000 | P-R |
| 1   | PT-UN 2 (20) | 13  | 8000 | S |
| 1   | PT-UN 2 (20)

— page 177 —
0-0-N-F-T-I-D-Z-N-T-I-A-L
G. AIRCRAFT CONTROLS

Enemy air activity was very light in the areas covered by AUE; only two contacts were made. The first, 4 August, while maneuvering to fire on floating mines southeast of KINKSAH, was the sighting of 3 large unidentified aircraft proceeding north along coast. The second materialized while conducting submerged patrol off KINKSAH on 6 August. Two aerial bombs were heard; two RIVING light bombers were sighted; and one more bomb heard as they headed south along coast.

No other enemy aircraft encountered, undoubtedly due to the steady air strikes by carrier and land based planes.

H. ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. ATLANTIC (SS403) TORPEDO ATTACKS NO. ONE PATROL NO. FOUR

Time: 0116 K, 13 August 1945 | Lat.: 42-11.5 N | Long.: 142-14.5 E

TARGET DATA - DANGER INFLICTED

Description - 2 PF-UN 2
Ships sunk - 1 PF-UN 2 (EGU)
Ships damaged - 1 PF-UN 2 (EGU) (Possible)

Damage determined by: Sew one torpedo hit, explode magazine, and sink PF within 30 seconds. The second target was possibly damaged or sunk by torpedoes 5 & 6. Estimates of results on second target are based on explosions at proper intervals to have been torpedoes 5 & 6, and to be early loss of radar contact.

Target draft 9 Course 265 speed 10 Range 2500

ON SHIP DATA:

Speed 11 Course 000° - 30' Depth Surface angle zero

FIRST CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA:

Fired six bow tubes, 1ark 18-2 torpedoes with depth setting 3 feet across force 3-4, sees with torpedo runs of 2400 to 1350 yards, gyros near zero, track 75-90 port. Speed 100 feet between torpedoes from aft - forward. Targets were over-lapping with far target 1800 yards slightly on starboard quarter.

Three torpedoes broached momentarily just after leaving the tubes, but phosphorescent wakes showed all six running hot, straight, and normal.

Initial contact was made with ST radar, but tracking and attack completed by SJ entirely, Target in sight and identified when shooting, but too dim for use of TBT.

Fire control party worked without a hitch.

- 17 -

— page 178 —
0-N-P-I-D-E-N-T-I-L

H. ATTACK DATA (Cont'd):

Tube No. 1 2 3 4 5 6

Track angle 78 80 82 84 86 88

Gyro angle 006 003 003 000 001 358

Depth Set 3 3 3 3 3 3

Mk 18 Speed 27 27 27 27 27 27

Hit or Miss Miss Hit Miss Miss Hit #2 Hit #2

Mark Torp. 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2

Serial No. 58247 57851 99466 53290 58068 99427

Mk Explorer 6-7 8-7 8-7 8-7 8-7 8-7

Serial No. 16966 10647 16957 16709 15795 16485

Act. Set. (--- Contact ---)

Act. Act. Contact ? ?

Mk Warhead 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2

Serial No. 5994 5879 5877 5919 623C 6188

Explosive Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex

Firing Int. 0 08 16 23 32 45

Type Spread 2 R 1 R 2 R 1 L 2 L 2 L

Sea Condition - THREAT USS USS USS

Overhaul act SURVIVE. Subasc,PH Subasc PH Subasc,PH BURIAL BURIAL

Remarks: One observed hit was obtained 2 minutes, 15 seconds after firing #2 tube. The run was 2200 yards. This information plus the fact that the effort part of the spread hit indicates an actual torpedo speed of approximately 28.5 knots. Temperature of injection 65°; temperature of electrolyte 59°.

— page 179 —
0-C-N-F-I-D-3-I-T-I-A-I

I. MINES

The following floating mines were encountered:

| No. | Time (K); Date       | Lat. (N); Long. (E) | Remarks                                                                 |
|-----||||
| 1   | 1117 - 31 July      | 31-20; 139-32        | Sank                                                                  |
| 2   | 1334 - 1 August     | 34-43; 141-43        | Exploded                                                          |
| 3   | 1838 - 1 August     | 35-25; 141-39        | Exploded                                                          |
| 4   | 1525 - 4 August     | 37-28.5; 141-30.5    | Sank; possibly moored.                                 |
| 5   | 1554 - 4 August     | 37-30.5; 141-29        | Sank; possibly moored.                                 |
| 6   | 1300 -12 August     | 42-45; 143-57         | Passed up while tracking.                                        |

J. ATT-SURFACE TESTS.

Only anti-submarine measures encountered were three distant aerial bombs dropped at random on evening of 6 August and two anti-submarine vessels proceeding along shallow coastal waters of HOKKAIDO 12-13 August (attack #1).

K. RADAR

Radio communications and operation of radio equipment was good - except unsuccessful attempt to raise NPK on ship-shore and ITO JIN. SR liaison on 3310 Kcs afternoon of 30 July.

L. RADAR

ST RIDER - The Suger Tare was used consistently for surface search while in the patrol area to eliminate the possibility of detection by JAP ton centimeter search rocavies. Our only ship contact was tracked quite successfully at ranges up to 15,500 yards, using the out-off bearings. Maximum range on rain squalls was 63,000 yards, only obtained once and probably had abnormal propagation. This contact was on the 12 to 15 watch on 9 August, position then being 43-00 if; 145-41 Z. Consistent ranges on HOKKAIDO (elevation 300 to 400 feet) were 25,000 yards. Maximum ranges were 33,000 yards. Considerable difficulty was experienced.

— page 182 —
21-32N: : 1/8
2000: : 7-11-45: 240 +1500: 6-5: 1/6-44: keying: Probably WAKE ISLAND
0400: : 7-23-42: 152: 500: 8: 1/4-10: sweeps: Probably TORI SHIIA
1630: : 7-26-45: 110: -: 30: 1/9-21: sweeps: Very weak signal - : 1/9
1600: : 7-26-45: 82: -: -: 1/9-16: sweep: Weak signal - probably shore based. : -:
1690: : 7-26-45: 151: 1500: 7: 1/4-16: irregular: Weak signal - : 1/8
1840: : 7-22-45: 105: 250: 20: 1/4-10: Irregular: Weak signal : 1/8
1720: : 7-31-45: 160: 400: 8: 1/4-39: 1 RPM: Weak signal - sweeping - AORA SHIIA : 1/4
1715: : 8-1-45: 150: 500: 11: 1/4-40: 2 RPM: Weak signal - sweeping - shore based : 1/4
1810: : 8-1-45: 210: 750: 10: 1/4-39: 1/4 RPM: Weak signal - sweeping - shore based : 1/8
2025: : 8-1-45: 81: -: -: 1/4-39: -: Weak - sweeping - shore based : -
0930: : 8-2-45: 77: 200: 50: 1/4-48: -: Weak - sweeping - shore based : 1/8
0740: : 8-3-45: 152: 500: 5: 1/4-49: -: Weak - sweeping - shore based : 1/8
1905: : 8-3-45: 152: 400: 12: 1/4-19: 1/4 RPM: Weak - sweeping - shore based : 1/4
1945: : 8-3-45: 157: 900: 7: 1/4-18: -: Keying - aircraft : 1/4

— page 183 —
1-0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SOUND EQUIPMENT
The JK lean-ins from the JK-QC projector shorted out. Short located just below the stuffing gland at the top of the shaft. The shorted loads were oil soaked and will require replacement during refit.

TM1 causalities were many, but were easily repaired. The majority of them were caused by wear. The limit or trip-back switch furnished with the equipment was not rugged enough to withstand but a relative few hours of operation. Ships force designed a switch which has worked satisfactorily.

In general the TM1 recorder is too fragile to withstand continuous operation.

Sound conditions - No remarks.

DENSITY LAYERS
The following abnormal density layers, as described below, were encountered in this patrol:

| Date | Location | Negative Gradient | Sea Condition | Injection |
|------|||||
| 7-20-45| Lat. 24-56 N | 19 degrees to 480 feet | 1 | 690 |
| 8-3-45| Lat. 37-39 N | 31 degrees to 300 feet | 1 | 72° |

Negative gradients were regularly encountered between periscope depth and 100 feet of 10° to 15° in ARSA 3 as exemplified by the second layer listed above. These gradients often made depth control difficult at periscope depth when making such headway.

HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY
Health - Excluding the routine treatment of minor ailments, the Pharmacist's late was confronted with only three cases during this patrol. The first case, a completely decayed tooth, was removed and the patient recovered rapidly. The second, a case of cellulitis, was eliminated by application of warm packs. The third case, a fractured rib, healed quickly with no complications. Due to prompt treatment, no man-hours were lost. One man was left at SAIPAN with an abscessed wisdom tooth.

Food - Steak and ice cream at propitious intervals supplemented a well balanced menu.

— page 184 —
1. HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY
P. HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY
Habitability - A clean ship with proper handling of limited quarters by an
efficent int Chief of Boat more than compensated for the "Hot-bunking" in keeping
a happy ship.

C. PERSONNEL
Number of men detached after previous patrol - 16
Number of men on board during patrol - 81
Number qualified at start of patrol - 56
Number qualified at end of patrol - 72
Number of unqualified men making first patrol - 13

R. JULES STEAUD - FUEL USED
Pearl Harbor to Saipan 4220 mi 53820 gal.
Saipan to Lifeguard Station 1459 mi 13860 gal.
On Lifeguard Station 2053 mi 16870 gal.
In AREA THREE 1770 mi 15880 gal.
In AREA ONE 1520 mi 10820 gal.
AREA ONE to Kidney 2185 mi 33000 gal.
Kidney to Pearl Harbor 1300 mi 21000 gal.
Totals 11487 mi 165250 gal.

S. DURATION
Days enroute Pearl Harbor to Saipan - 14
Days enroute Saipan to Lifeguard station - 5
Days on Lifeguard Station - 9
Days in AREA THREE - 9
Days in AREA ONE - 8
Days enroute AREA to Kidney - 6
Days enroute Kidney to Pearl Harbor - 4
Total 55

Days Submerged - 8

T. TIDES OF ENDURANCE TRAINING
Tides
17
Fuel
* 35,690 gal
Provisions
10 days
Personnel Factor
Unlimited after surrender.

Timing factor this patrol - SURREINER OF JAPAN.
* 1day.

- 24 -

— page 186 —
1. The Commander Submarine Division ONE HUNDRED FOUR.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron TEN.
    (2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
    (3) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. ATULE (SS 403) - Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

1. The Fourth war patrol of the U.S.S. ATULE was of fifty-five days duration broken by a two day stop at SAIPAN enroute area. Nine days were spent on lifeguard duty in the NANPO SHOJO and seventeen days as a member of coordinated attack group, which also included ARCHERFISH (Commander ENRIGHT, Group Commander) and GATO, east of HONSHU. Eight days were spent in submerged patrol. The patrol was terminated by orders of Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.

2. The desperate condition of the enemy is clearly reflected in the fact that ATULE discovered no merchant shipping and encountered meagre surface or air opposition in Empire waters. While on lifeguard station ATULE was afforded no opportunity to effect rescues. That she was performing alert services is indicated by the events of 25 and 31 July. Six mines were sighted, five of which were destroyed.

3. On 12 August, while patrolling submerged close in to the HONSHU coast, sound contact was established on a single ship. Reduced visibility complicated submerged patrol so ATULE surfaced and commenced tracking. Shortly afterward a second ship was detected in company with the original contact. The Commanding Officer after a course estimate of the situation decided to continue tracking and deploy attack patrol. ATULE could be made in good diving water, under favorable conditions of weather. The sound was sudden improvement in visibility left ATULE in full sight of the enemy before contact report was cleared. However after a brief chase the enemy, disregarding remarkable single-mindedness, returned to his original course and speed. ATULE to assemble the group and proceed to the selected point of interruption. At 2150, with GATO in support, contact was re-established and ATULE commenced approach. After deliberately maneuvering for the best firing position, at 2113 on 13 August two overlapping Japanese PF-UN 2 were attacked with six mark 18-2 torpedoes (range 2400-1850 yards, track angles 78-88, gyro angles 00-358) one of which was seen and heard to hit and demolished the near target and one or two of which were heard to explode possibly hitting the second target (Torpedo attack #1). The second target briefly countered with gunfire but nine minutes after the last heard explosion gunfire abruptly ceased, radar contact on second enemy was lost and could not be regained.

4. Without question the first target was utterly destroyed and there is

— page 187 —
104/16-3(2)
Serial: (047)
C=O=N=F=I=D=E=N=T=I=A=L
FIRST INDORSEMENT to CO, USS ATULE
Conf. 1tr SS403/A16 Serial 010,
dated 25 August 1945.

Subject: U.S.S. ATULE (SS 403) - Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

reason to believe that the second suffered a like fate. However, the evidence being inconclusive, the recommended assessment must stand as claimed by the Commanding Officer - one FF-UN 2 sunk. Perhaps GATO has more definite information on the post-attack movements of the second target.

5. ATULE returned to base clean and shipshape, in excellent material condition and with discipline and morale at a high state. The reason for this (P) and (V) of his report. The entire ship's company can be proud of ATULE's record. The Division Commander offers his congratulations on an effective final patrol, characterized by careful planning, sound judgment, and precise execution. Well done.

L. H. CHAPPELL

— page 188 —
1/3h
FC5-10/A16-3
Serial: (0284)
CONFIDENTIAL

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. ATUL (SS403)
Report of War Patrol
Number Four.

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

Subject: U.S.S. ATUL (SS403) - Report of War Patrol
    Number Four.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the
   Commander Submarine Division ONE HUNDRED FOUR.

2. The Squadron Commander congratulates the
   Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the U.S.S. ATUL
   upon the completion of that vessel's Fourth War Patrol.

3. It is recommended that the U.S.S. ATUL be
   credited with the following:

SUNK
1 - PF - UN 2 (Kaibokan - 2) (EC) 800 tons
    Total Sunk: 800 tons

DAMAGED
1 - PF - UN 2 (Kaibokan - 2) (EU) 800 tons
    Total Damaged 800 tons

Total Sunk and Damaged 1600 tons

SIGNATURE: S. E. PETERSON

— page 189 —
2-10(A)/AUS-3(18) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FIL

Serial: 02296
CERTIFICATE:
EXTRA - ORIGINAL
SURG. MICRO
PHOTO-LAB OP-16
RETURN TO F-253

CORE of Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, California, 14 September 1945.

NOTES: THIS REPORT WILL BE DESCRIBED PRIOR TO ENTERING PATROL AREA.

CONSUSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 873
U.S.S. ATULE - FOURTH 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. ATULE (S5403) - Report of Fourth War Patrol
(3 July to 25 August 1945).

1. The fourth war patrol of the U.S.S. ATULE, under the command of Commander J. E. Varner, U.S. Navy, was in two phases; the first in the vicinity of the Hump Shoto was devoted to lifeguard services, and the second to offensive patrols. The second phase was devoted to the attack of enemy submarines and the destruction of enemy submarines. The ATULE was destroyed by a torpedo attack on 25 August 1945.

2. The ATULE demonstrated that she was an alert lifeguard, but fortuitously chose to remain on her patrol. While on offensive patrol, she was destroyed by a torpedo attack on 25 August 1945. This was developed by the ATULE's ability to detect and destroy enemy submarines.

3. The ATULE is credited with sinking 1,600 tons of enemy shipping and damaging 1,600 tons of enemy shipping.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the commanding officer, officers, and crew on the consistently successful conduct of their ship and on the completion of a smart and profitable patrol during the ATULE's cruise. The ATULE is credited with sinking 1,600 tons of enemy shipping and damaging 1,600 tons of enemy shipping.

S U I K

- F (KILOGRAM-2) (20) - 800 tons (Attack No. 1)

D A M I G E D

- PF (KILOGRAM-2) (SU) - 800 tons (Attack No. 1)

TOTAL SINK & DAMAGED 1,600 tons

G. C. GRAFFORD,
Chief of Staff.

Distribution and authentication on next page. - 1 -

— page 190 —
11-10(4)/AIS-3(18) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

Gerald 02296

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
AUDRE Report of
Fourth War Patrol.

CONCUSSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 873
U.S.S. AUDRE - FOURTH WAR PATROL

Subject: U.S.S. AUDRE (SS403) - Report of Fourth War Patrol
(3 July to 25 August 1945).

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Conch
GIN
Ginopac
JICPOA
AICPOA
Conserpacc
Cholant
Unsubsient
S.S. School, IL
C. C. Base, PH
S.

— page 191 —
1.0 2.8 2.5
: 1.1 2.2 2.0
: 1.25 1.4 1.6

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO—NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

D-62264