U.S.S. RATON (SS-270) — war patrol report SS-270_RATON_Part1.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: F-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-89-78]
OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: HANCOCK]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: MAY 22, 1978]

[Microfilm Resolution Chart Numbers:]
1.0
1.1
1.25
2.8
3.0
3.2
3.5
3.8
4.0
4.5
2.5
2.2
2.0
1.8
1.4
1.6

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

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[HANDWRITTEN: RATON (SS-270)
WWII PATROL FILE
FOR DECK LOG JULY 1943 - DECEMBER 1945
CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES WHICH HAS CUSTODY.
ALL MATERIAL ON THIS REEL IS DECLASSIFIED

J.A. KOONTZ]

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

HISTORY OF USS RATON (SS 270)

The keel of USS RATON (SS 270) was laid May 29, 1942 by Manitowoc
Shipbuilding Company, Manitowoc, Wisconsin. She was launched on Jan-
uary 24, 1943 being sponsored and christened by Mrs. C. C. West, of
Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

On July 13, 1943, the RATON was commissioned into the U. S. Naval
Service and placed under command of Lieutenant Commander J. W. Davis,
USN.

Initial training of the officers and crew was conducted in Lake
Michigan. This period was followed by a shakedown cruise to the Panama
Canal Zone and a intensified training period at the Submarine Base,
Coco Solo, Canal Zone. On September 19, 1943, advance training being
completed, the RATON departed for Brisbane, Australia, to join the
Submarine Force, U.S. SEVENTH Fleet on October 16, 1943.

From Brisbane, the RATON moved to Tulagi and on November 20, 1943
headed for the Bismarck Archipelago - Solomons-New Guinea Area to con-
duct her first war patrol. On November 24, 1943, while patrolling
westward of Manus on the Pelew-Tingwan shipping route, two Marus ac-
compained by two escorts were contacted; a Rufe, was acting as air
cover. The RATON tracked the convoy and when night fell made a torpedo
attack sinking one of the Marus. Later that night the RATON attempted
four times to sink the other Maru but on all occasions was thwarted by
the high quality countermeasures of the two escort vessels. Thus four
days after commencing the first patrol, the RATON drew Japanese blood.

On the 28th of November 1943, a Rabaul bound convoy of five Marus
in company with two escorts was sighted. In a submerged attack the
RATON scored hits, sinking two of the enemy Marus. After being worked
over by the escorts and finally evading them, contact was regained with
the same convoy and in a night attack another Maru was damaged heavily
by torpedoes. Having only a few remaining torpedoes, the RATON sent
word to a nearby submarine of the convoy position. Some time later,
the USS GATO (SS 212) arrived on the scene and went into attack. She
was immediately counter-attacked by the Jap escorts. To draw off the
escorts and give the GATO a chance to complete her attack, the RATON
went in on the surface in daylight until the escorts gave chase, using
their guns in vain.

On December 6, after 17 days at sea, the RATON returned to base
at Milne Bay, New Guinea, via Tulagi for rest and refit by the USS
FULTON (AS 11). The successful Combat Insignia was awarded for the
first patrol and the commanding officer was awarded the Silver Star.

The second war patrol was conducted in the Mindanao, Celebes,
Halmahera area after departing Milne Bay, on December 11, 1943.
Christmas Eve was spent at battle stations while making an attack on

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a convoy of four Marus and two destroyers in Morotai Strait. Four
torpedo hits were obtained, sinking one ship and damaging another one
which turned out to be an auxiliary aircraft carrier.

The second of January brought a convoy of two loaded tankers
escorted by a Fubuki class destroyer into range of the RATON'S torpedoe
As attack took place northwest of Falana Island on the Palau Route and
resulted in one less tanker for the Japs and in the usual counter-
attack by the escort.

On January 8, 1944, the RATON missed a small tanker, and on Jan-
uary 19 set course for Fremantle, West Australia, arriving at this
"second home" on January 25th for rest and refit by the USS PELIAS
(AS 14) after completing a successful run for which the Combat Insignia
was awarded. Again Captain Davis was awarded the Silver Star.

The third patrol was conducted in the Java Sea, Karimata Strait,
South China Sea Area between February 18 and April 14, 1944. This
patrol was long and uneventful with the USS RASHER (SS 269) sinking
the only two ships contacted before the RATON could get to them. The
Combat Insignia was not authorized for this patrol. RATON again re-
turned to Fremantle for rest and repairs by the USS ORION (AS 18).

The fourth patrol found the RATON in the Java and South China,
Seas, after leaving Fremantle, on May 19th. On May 23, two small inter
coastal freighters were sighted north of Tambelan Island. In a gun
attack the larger ship was set on fire with a few rounds of 4-inch
ammunition to burn brightly for several hours until it finally sank.
The second ship sank after about thirty 4-inch shells had hit her.

That same evening a fast convoy of three transports escorted by
four destroyers was contacted. One of the destroyers was sunk with
three hits and one transport was damaged.

On May 28, a Japanese RO-51 class submarine was contacted and
tracked only to be missed when RATON was unable to obtain a favorable
firing position.

June 6th brought a large convoy of eleven ships with four destroy-
er escorts. On a moon light submerged approach, one destroyer was
blown up with three torpedo hits. The counter-attack was severe, giv-
ing a good shaking up, chipping paint and cork and breaking lights.

On June 13, a boarding party was sent on board a sailing vessel
loaded with sugar and eleven prisoners were taken. When the ship was
scuttled, she sank so quickly that the boarding party was left swimming
in the heavy seas. All were recovered on board safely.

A small Maru was sighted on June 17. A submerged approach, re-
sulting in one torpedo hit, quickly sent it to the bottom. On surfac-
ing amid acres of debris, nine more prisoners were taken on board
making a total of twenty on board. Fremantle was again the scene of a

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triumphant return on June 23. The ORION again supplied the RATON with
necessary repairs. The Combat Insignia was awarded for this patrol.
For this patrol, Captain Davis received the Navy Cross.

The fifth war patrol was conducted in the South China Sea off the
west coast of Luzon. Fremantle was left behind on July 18, after
Lieutenant Commander M. W. Shea, USN, had relieved Commander J. W. Davis
as commanding officer. On August 4, contact with one tanker with one
escort was made off Dasol Bay, P.I. A submerged attack brought one
hit in the tanker, which was beached before it could sink. Numerous
contacts followed which offered no chance for an attack. On September
10, the RATON returned to Fremantle for rest and refit by the ORION.
The Combat Insignia was not awarded for this patrol.

The sixth patrol was made in the South China Sea area from October
6 to December 1. On October 18, a night surface attack was made on a
nine ship convoy. The RATON maneuvered into the center of the forma-
tion and fired both torpedo nests, the bow tubes at six over-lapping
targets and the stern tubes at a large freighter. Three ships were
sunk and one damaged with these two salvos.

The RATON then pulled clear of the escorts and went in for another
attack, this time sinking a destroyer escort with one torpedo.

After evading the remaining escorts, another attack was made in
which one more ship was damaged. With a few fish left and a typhoon
making things very unpleasant, the RATON headed for Mios Woendi,
Schouten Islands, to reload with torpedoes and fuel for a continuation
of the patrol.

On October 27, the RATON left Mios Woendi to resume her patrol.
On November 6, an enemy task force of two heavy cruisers and five es-
cort vessels was contacted. A submerged attack brought three hits in
a MOGAMI class cruiser which however only damaged it.

On November 14, a four ship convoy with three escorts was contacted.
A surface attack resulted in two over-lapping targets being sunk with
four torpedo hits. After pulling clear of the escorts and letting
things quiet down a little, another attack sank the one remaining Maru
with two hits after the USS RAY (SS 271) had accounted for the third
Maru. Total tonnage sunk on this patrol was 57,200 and another 20,300
tons damaged. With only four torpedoes remaining, the RATON headed for
home, San Francisco. The Combat Insignia was awarded; the Commanding
Officer received the Navy Cross.

From December 2, 1944 to March 13, 1945, the RATON was undergoing
overhaul at Mare Island Navy Yard. On March 13, the RATON headed for
Pearl Harbor where extensive training was undertaken prior to proceed-
ing to patrol area.

The seventh war patrol of the RATON was in the Yellow Sea area
from 20 April to 25 May. On May 2, a loaded tanker with two small es-
corts was contacted off Shantung Promontory. A night torpedo attack

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blew up the tank. The RATON pulled clear of the escorts
the larger escort had made things hot by opening fire with its guns
at an uncomfortably short range.

A submerged torpedo approach on May 2 sank a medium Maru that
afforded a chance for an excellent periscope photograph that now deco-
rates the RATON wardroom.

The sixteenth of May brought contact with two transports, the
largest of which, heavily loaded with troops, was sunk in a submerged
attack. Shortly after this attack the RATON returned to Guam for refit
by USS PROTEUS (AS 19), arriving there May 24, 1945. Captain Shea was
awarded a Silver Star and all hands were awarded the Combat Insignia
for this successful patrol.

At Guam, Lieutenant Commander M. W. Shea, USN, was relieved as
commanding officer by Lieutenant Commander G. F. Gugliotta, USN, who
took the RATON on its patrol for lifeguard duty off Hong Kong. This
patrol lasted from June 22 to July 23. No allied planes were shot
down or disabled in the assigned area, so no lifeguard services were
rendered and no ships were sighted. On July 23, the RATON put into
Subic Bay, Luzon, Philippine Islands for refit. The RATON was ready
to leave on its next war patrol when word was received that the Japanese
Government had decided to surrender and hostilities were about to cease.
On August 31 the RATON departed for the United States having completed
its wartime career with twenty-two ships sunk totalling 115,512 tons,
and seven ships totalling 51,500 tons damaged, a grand total of
167,012 tons of Japanese shipping sunk and damaged.

SUMMARY OF PATROL RESULTS:

Number of War Patrols:                                7
Number and Type of Ships Sunk:                       3 Men-of-War; 19 Merchant
Total Tonnage of Ships Sunk:                         115,512 tons
Number and Type of Ships Damaged:                    2 Men-of-War; 5 Merchant
Total Tonnage of Ships Damaged:                      51,500 tons
Total Prisoners of War:                              20 Japanese
Aviators rescued while on patrol:                    None

* * * * *

USS RATON (SS 270) was assigned, as of March 1946, to the U. S.
Atlantic Fleet, Second Fleet (Active); and by Directive dated November
1949, she was placed out of commission, in reserve, attached to the
U. S. Atlantic Fleet.

* * * * *

The RATON earned six battle stars on the Asiatic-Pacific Area
Service Ribbon, for participating in the following operations:

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1 Star/Treasury-Bougainville Operation
  Occupation and Defense of Cape Torokina -- 1 November to 15
  December 1943

1 Star/Leyte Operation
  Leyte Landings -- 10 October to 29 November 1944

1 Star/Okinawa Gunto Operation
  Assault and Occupation of Okinawa Gunto -- 24 March to 30 June
  1945

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 11 December 1943 to 25 Jan-
  uary 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 10 May to 23 June 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 25 July to 10 September 1944

* * * * * *

STATISTICS

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

* * * * * *

Restencilled April 1951

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[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]
Reg. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 2868]
L.S. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 1.0116]

[CROSSED OUT: C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L]
DECLASSIFIED

U.S.S. RATON (SS270)

REPORT OF

FIRST WAR PATROL

From: 13 November 1943

To : 6 December 1943

NOTE:- May be taken to sea by submarines, but must be
destroyed by BURNING prior to passing 5° South.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[STAMP: BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 8/1/72]]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

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SS270/A16-3
Serial 021

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

From:
To :
Via :

Subject:

Enclosure:

1.
this vessel conducted in the SOLOMONS - BISMARCKS - NEW GUINEA area,
during the period November 13, 1943 to December 6, 1943 is forwarded
herewith.

2.

[HANDWRITTEN: Filmed]
[HANDWRITTEN: 62440] U.S.S. RATON (SS270)
% Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, Calif.

6 December 1943.

The Commanding Officer.
The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Official Channels.

U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol number ONE.

(A) Subject report.
(B) Track Chart of U.S.S. RATON (SS270) for subject patrol.

Enclosures (A) and (B), covering the first war patrol of

All times are zone minus eleven (-11) or LOVE.

1/s/ [SIGNATURE: J. H. DAVIS]

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Subject:
A.
U.S.S. RATON Report of First War Patrol -
OpOrd: CTF 72 S78-43, dated November 12, 1943.
PROLOGUE
Commissioned at Manitowoc, Wis., July 13, 1943. July 13 to 28 -
Training on Lake Michigan. July 23 to Aug. 4 - enroute to New Orleans.
Aug. 9 to 14 - enroute Coco Solo, C.Z. August 14 to Sept. 19 - training in
Panama Area. Departed Panama Area Sept. 19 for Brisbane, Australia. Arrived
Brisbane, Australia October 16, 1943 with two main engine (#3 and #4) crank-
shafts scored beyond repair. Both crankshafts renewed, overhauled all four
main engines, (including installation of bronze backed connecting rod bearings)
and installed air conditioning unit in conning tower. Work done by TF 72 Re-
lief Crew, Repair Unit #89 and Ship's Force.
B.
NARRATIVE
November 13, 1943 (1st)
72
0800 Underway in accordance with CTF OpOrd. No. S78-43 of November 12, 1943.
CSD 82 (Comdr. H.C.BRUTON, USN) on board for training.exercises.
0930 Conducted sound runs in Moreton Bay.
1500 Conducted battle practice on towed target. Fired 15 rounds 4"/50 cal.;
360 rounds 20 and 500 rounds of .30 cal.
1600 Rendezvous with HILS THYALLA and H.L. 808 off Pilot Examination Vessel
and proceded to sea. Conducted Night Approaches, Radar.

November 14, 1943 (2nd)
During day conducted practice approaches on THYALLA, exercised with
bombing planes, and evasive tactics with THYALL and H.L. 806.
1905 Rendezvous with U.S.S. COUCAL and U.S.S. FETO. Transferred CSD 82 to
H.L. 808. Proceded to sea in company with FETO and COUCAL. Night
Radar Approaches.

November 15, 1943 (3rd)
Practice approaches on COUCAL during morning.
1200 Made deep dive (312ft.), Minor leaks.
1300 Commenced tracking and making reated simulated attacks on COUCAL.

November 16, 1943 (4th)
Continued tracking and making repeated simulated attacks on COUCAL.

November 17, 1943 (5th)
Same exercises as of November 16th.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

November 18, 1943 (6th)

Continued tracking exercises on COUCAL.
1300 Rendezvous with COUCAL and PETO; L = 16°S; Long. = 157°-30'E. COUCAL sent
     over by line-throwing gun tracking data for last 3 days.
1320 COUCAL left formation. Proceeding in company with PETO.

November 19, 1943 (7th)

During morning made two training dives and practice battle surface.
During afternoon made two training dives and practice battle surfaces.
On the second battle surface, fired 3 rounds of 4"/50 ammunition, 120 rounds
of .20 MM and 26 rounds of .30 cal. Both .30 caliber guns jammed after a few
rounds.

November 20, 1943 (8th)

0347 Sighted escort (Free French ship - CAP DES PALLES) L = 9°-25'S; Long.=
     159°-15'E.
0350 Proceeding in company with PETO and escort to TULAGI.
0825 Entered TULAGI HARBOR.
0916 Moored alongside PETO and fueling barge.
1100 Transferred BISTAK, Andrew S., #708 83 68, F3c, USNR to Naval
     TULAGI for medical treatment. Diagnosis: CHINCHROID.
1250 Completed fueling. Received 20,700 gallons diesel oil. Because of re-
     pairs on PETO, set time of departure at 1600(L).
1430 LACOURSE, Robert E., #606 17 29, Slc, USNR reported on board for duty
     from Naval Station, TULAGI.
1558 Underway in company with PETO and escort (CAP DES PALLES) standing out.
1615 Cleared harbor.
1806 Made trim dive. During trim dive the escort simulated attack.
1830 Surfaced.
2107 PETO and escort left formation, returning to TULAGI. Requested PETO to
     inform CTF 72 of RATON'S plan to continue, following original schedule.

November 21, 1943 (9th)

0625 Sighted unidentified plane. (Plane contact #1) Dove to 150ft.
0700 Surfaced. No plane in sight. Sky overcast, frequent rain squalls during
     day.
1830 Made training dive.
1900 Surfaced.

November 22, 1943 (10th)

During night very poor visibility. Sky heavy overcast and steady rain.
0542 Submerged. Sky overcast and squally.
1853 Surfaced.
2155 Increased speed to full on 3 main engines.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

November 23, 1943 (11th)
Partially overcast and squally during night.
0239 Went ahead full on 4 main engines.
0550 Submerged. Clear sky. Sky partially overcast. Light swells, calm sea.
1852 Surfaced. Proceeding westward to area, 15 knots.

November 24, 1943 (12th)
No change in weather.
0415 Entered area.
0545 Submerged. Patrolling east and west, about 90 miles N.E. of Kaving.
1902 Surfaced. Headed toward SE corner of area at 15 knots to intercept enemy
     shipping that might have departed from north shore of New Ireland in late
     afternoon heading north.
1955 No. 3 main engine out of commission. (K4).
2105 Changed course to west to pass south of EILAU and LUSSAN.
2135 No. 2 main engine out of commission. (K5).
2215 Changed course to N to pass north of FINCH and LUSSAN because of engine
     trouble.
2335 No. 2 main engine in commission. Head full on 3 main engines.

November 25, 1943 (13th)
Very poor visibility. Sky overcast and frequent heavy rain squalls.
Cleared up after midnight.
0147 Changed course to westward.
0330 All 4 main engines in commission.
0546 Submerged, about 25 miles north of LUSSAN.
0650 Changed course to southwest.
1920 Surfaced. Moving westward to intercept DADI contact. Speed 15-17knots.

November 26, 1943 (14th)
Sky slightly overcast. Dark night.
0230 Started retiring search curve, covering courses 090°T to 125°T and target
     speed 8 knots.
0700 Surface patrolling, 15 knots, approximately 140 miles north east of LUSSAN
     and 130 miles NNE of FINCH. Clear day. Excellent visibility. Course 180°T.
0941 Sighted small sampan or fishing vessel, hull down, bearing 060°T distant
     about 6 miles. Lat 0-40S; Long. 148-10E. Avoided on surface.
1143 Sighted smoke bearing 138°T, distance about 15 miles. Attempted to close
     at high speed. Bearing change of smoke indicated ships on northwesterly
     course.
1209 Sighted plane, float type (RUFE)(Plane contact No. 2) Dived to 150ft.
     and came to normal approach. Plane was heading in our direction.
1215 Periscope depth. Two MARUS (Ship contact No. 1). RUFE type plane hover-
     ing over same. Unable to close range to less than 14,000 yards, using
     high speed submerged. Estimated speed 8-10 knots, base course 345°T. Zig-
     zagging and probably escorted by P.C. Boats as we could hear pinging but
     could not sight them. Ran submerged at high speed for next 4 hours to
     maintain contact. The smaller of the two Marus conveniently smoked in-
     cessantly enabling us to maintain contact.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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Subject: U.S.S. R.TON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.
November 26, 1943 (14th) Cont.

1715 With smoke well over horizon, surfaced and began chase on 3 main engines
full speed. Had renewed a connecting rod bearing on No. 6 engine, No. 3
(Had renewed a connecting rod bearing on No. 6 engine, No. 3)
during dive and put this engine on battery charge to her in).
had no difficulty tracking the smoke of the smaller Haru. Plane escort
not in sight. Although it had been sighted thru periscope a short time
before surfacing.
1839 East of ships in sight. Made quick dive to avoid being sighted.
1853 Surfaced. Smoke still in sight. Bent on 4 engines full speed. Kept con-
tact by smoke of smaller Haru.

1901 Sunset.
2000 Radar contact at 19150 yards, dead ahead, bearing 000°T. Commenced tracking
and working around ahead and to westward. Haru were zigzagging frequently
from 340°T to 025°T and on base course about 005°T, speed 10 knots. We
tracked for 3 hours, and at 2300 started closing in to attack. At a range
of 5600 yards picked up escort. Looked like a PC boat. Formation was as
follows: PC boat about 1,000 yards on port bow of larger Haru. Smaller
Haru about 1,000 yards slightly on starboard quarter of larger Haru.
Plan was to come in about 80-90 track on large Haru, fire six, at torpedo
run of 2-2,200 yards, then swing hard right and fire the after nest at
smaller Haru, getting all torpedoes on their way before the escort came in
the larger Haru. Escort passed ahead about 3,000 yards and we came in
fast astern of him.
2315 Started firing forward nest (Attack No. 1), 8-9 second firing interval.
A few seconds before firing No. 5 torpedo, a terrific explosion (premature)
went off in front of own ship's bow, spraying the bridge with water;
temporarily blinded bridge personnel, obscured target, and caused some
confusion on bridge. Fired No. 5 and then swung hard right to bring after
nest to bear on smaller Haru. However, the premature had scared her and
she turned away and presented about 180°angle on bow. The escort now
closed in and we bent on the knots to open out. Had no trouble opening
and the closest it got to us was about 2,700 yards. Heard, saw and felt
3 torpedo explosions on the larger Haru. O.C.D. watched target from bridge,
one amidships, and one aft. While opening out from
escort, target could be seen burning with large billows of smoke aft and
by the stern. Smoke obscured target but at 2321 (5 minutes 56
seconds after firing) heard a series of loud rumbling explosions from di-
rection of target, apparently breaking up. At 2330 heard and felt seven
depth charges. In opening out had 3 definite radar pips on radar,
smaller Haru was in sight and smoke from larger Haru. Lost
radar and escort. Lost the larger Haru at 12,000 yards
on radar. We could never again pick up more than one target
other than escort. We reloaded and regained radar contact with
escorts on radar. We reloaded and regained radar contact with
the damaged target, as the ship we recontacted was smoking.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

November 26, 1943 (14th) Cont.

2315 We made four attempts in next two hours to get in, but each time the escort
picked us up at around 5,500 yards, and came for us. On one attempt,
after working around on other side of target, we discovered for first time
that there were two escorts (PC boats). During this time the target was
either stopped or milling about at slow speed in vicinity of firing point,
quite frequently. During these attempts we could never get a good firing
track, or get good view of her silhouette, or close to less than 5,500
yards, without being detected, as the target consistently presented a small
angle, either bow or stern. After 4th attempt, we decided to go after
second Maru. After one hour chase we headed for new area. Believe that
the larger Maru sank about 2330, when we lost her on the radar. Believe
it was a damaged Maru, was actually the smaller Maru, probably
picking up survivors. She had been smoking during the entire chase and
we regained contact after firing, we mistook her for our original target.
Judging from what we could see of the larger Maru through periscope (Top
of bridge, stack, mast and goal posts) and night silhouette, it was be-
lieved to be about a 7500-8000 ton Maru. We never saw enough of other
Maru to definitely identify type, except it was considerably smaller and
estimated about 4-5000 tons, old type freighter.

0400 Reported attack and results.

November 27, 1943 (15th)

Sky completely overcast and squally. Very dark night. Proceeding to new
area.
2230 O.O.D. reported a loud explosion on port beam. Not felt. Lat. 1°-25'N;
Long. 142°-06'E. Radar could not pick up anything.

November 28, 1943 (16th)

Completely overcast. Rain squalls.
0715 Arrived in new area. Patrolling N-S, 10 knots, 20 mile legs.
1005 Sighted smoke bearing 260°T on the horizon (Ship Contact No. 2) commenced
closing in.
1020 Five ships in sight. Submerged and commenced approach. There were
5 Marus (2-5 to 7,000 tonners and 1-8-10,000 tonner) escorted by 2 PC
type Patrol Boats. Four Marus were in line of bearing and the 5th (and
largest) was astern of them. Zigzagging radically, on base course 090°T,
on 7-8 minute legs, speed 9.5 knots. The escorts were pinging continu-
ously but failed to pick us up during the approach. We planned to get 6
at big one and 4 at one of the others, but a radical change of course
just when we were ready to fire, made the range to the large one too
great. However, the zig brought the remaining Marus into an overlapping line of
bearing.

ENCLOSURE (A)

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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.
November 28, 1943 (16th) Cont.

1209 Commenced firing 6 torpedoes (Attack No. 2), fired 8-9 second interval,
     at the two overlapping outboard Marus on the left flank of the formation.
     One premature and 5 hits were distinctly felt and heard on the two targets,
     and 2 hits were seen on the nearest Maru - one in bow and one just aft of
     bridge. Nearest escort was closing us fast so went deep. Nearest ship
     had started to break up at last look. Bluish smoke very visible from
     torpedo tracks.
1211 First of 18-20 depth charges while passing 250ft. First was quite close
     but no damage. None of the others were close. Found a heavy layer at
     280ft so went to 325ft. Escorts were pinging continuously frequently
     went up to listen.
1212 Heard breaking up noises of ships hit and many explosions from direction
     of targets. There was no doubt about at least one ship sinking at this
     time.
1307 Loud rumbling explosions from direction of targets, similar to breaking
     up noises heard at 1212 - probably second Maru blowing up and sinking.
1315 Last depth charge. From then on we steadily drew away from escorts.
1403 Up to periscope depth and sighted 3 Marus milling around firing point 8 to
     10,000 yards away. Both escorts between us and Marus about 5,000 yards
     away. Both escorts continued searching until -
1457 At which time convoy of 3 Marus formed up and got underway on course
     about 045°T. At this time thought targets were still on base course
     090°T. Later believed they changed base course at this time to 065°T.
1700 Surfaced. Smoke of Marus just visible over horizon. Proceeded to firing
     spot and observed an area of about 2 square miles (2 miles in N-SE di-
     rection and 1 mile in NE-S direction) littered with debris, lifeboats,
     oil drums, life belts, life rafts, boxes, etc. Total of seven
     life boats of different sizes, and 1 landing barge #5669D. Took pictures
     of wreckage. Gave 20 MM gun crew some practice on life boats, but they
     were too excited to do much good. Expended 180 rounds 20 MM. Let crew
     come up in relays to view wreckage. Stores appeared to be tied together,
     some of the lines of stores being a quarter to a half mile in length.
     That 2nd Maru had sunk. Two red flags on sticks were attached to the
     nets reportedly to mark the spot. This might explain the nets re-
     ported by BLUE plane on September 30th, North of USSALU. Circled the
     area as there were too many half-submerged objects to risk getting into
     the nets and I didn't want to lose contact.
     The ships attacked were estimated to be 5 to 7,000 tons, one being
     larger than other.
1738 Reported contact, attack, and
     results. At this time, after hearing the two ships break up and sink to-
     day, became convinced that the large Maru attacked the night of November
     26, 1943 had sunk. The actions of the other 3 ships in this convoy in
ENCLOSURE (A).

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Subject:
U.S.S. R.TON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

November 28, 1943 (16th) Cont.

*   stopping to pick up survivors today was exactly what the Maru on
    the night of November 26th had done. At that time this smaller Maru was
    smoking continuously (as she had done ever since we first sighted her),
    and she completely fooled us in thinking she was the larger Maru we hit,
    and the last saw enveloped in smoke and settling by the stern. Two of
    the lookouts and J.O.C.D. had reported that night that it was the smaller
    Maru we were trying to get in on, but at the time I thought it was wish-
    ful thinking on their part. She had maneuvered at all times to prevent
    us from getting a good broadside view of her silhouette, and we were not
    sure, and could not understand how any Maru could take 3 hits and still
    not sink.
1818 Ahead full on 3 main engines, resuming chase of convoy, now well over the
    horizon. After sunset went ahead full on 4 main engines to close smoke.
2043 Sighted smoke from bridge, dead ahead.
2100 Intermittent Radar contact 15-16,000 yards. Convoy in heavy rain squall.
    Commenced tracking.
2300 Commenced closing in. Plan to slip in past astern of escort and fire 5
    at 2nd ship and then turn and fire after nest at 3rd ship in formation,
    firing interval
2332 Commenced firing forward nest at 2nd ship in formation, firing interval
    8-9 seconds (attack No. 3). Escort was about 2,500 yards on our star-
    board bow at the time. Shortly after firing heard and saw 3 prematures,
    one of which sprayed water on bridge. Swung hard left and commenced firing
    after nest at 3rd ship which still [HANDWRITTEN: apparent] no change of course. While swinging
    saw 4th torpedo premature in line with bow of 2nd ship. At first thought
    it was a hit. At the time of commencement of swinging to left had thought
    on bridge that 5 torpedoes had been fired forward but later found out that
    No. 5 was not fired as we had started swinging. Escort turned toward us
    after 1st premature and was getting uncomfortably close (about 2,000 yards)
    escorts started dropping depth charges as soon as first premature went off.
    Impossible to distinguish torpedo hits amongst all the explosions occurring.
    All torpedoes fired forward prematurely. People below reported one hit on
    3rd ship in formation from the after nest. This target was seen to stop
    dead in the water after we fired the after nest, smoking very heavily,
    while the other 2 Marus scattered. However, in about 5 minutes she got
    underway and joined the other 2 Marus, so I do not consider it hit. We
    had a perfect set-up for the bow tubes and a good set-up for stern nest,
    and the results were very disappointing. Outran the escorts on the
    surface and pulled clear to take stock of the situation.

November 29, 1943 (17th)
0138 Reported attack and results.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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Subject: U.S.S. ALTON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.
November 29th (17th) Cont.

0200 Commenced tracking and working ahead. Decided to take advantage of dark
     cloud background ahead of target and to get dead ahead of targets on their
     base course, and angle out as they closed for a stern shot (last 4 fish aft).
     Had thought of submerged approach, but decided against this for the reason
     that we would probably be detected and kept down for 2-3 hours and lose
     contact. Surface attack from the beam or quarter would be difficult be-
     cause of escorts and the big silhouette we would have to give in turning
     to bring stern nest to bear.
0230 Dead ahead of target on base course, keeping stern pointed at Marus, wait-
     ing for targets to come on. At a range of about 8,000 yards, the SJ start-
     ed to fail. We decided to continue, using estimated ranges and TBT bear-
     ings. Had his zigzag plan and all dope checked.
0300 Commenced firing after nest, 4 torpedoes, 10 second firing interval, with
     about 30° port track. Just as we fired the first one the nearest escort
     (on our port quarter about 2,000 yards) started firing his gun and drop-
     ping depth charges. The other escort followed suit and the target started
     blowing its whistle. With escorts dropping depth charges and firing their
     guns, the target firing and blowing its whistle and our SJ out, we
     pulled clear at full power speed. All torpedoes missed, although target
     was smoking heavily. The other 2 Marus scattered to north.
     In about 10 minutes the target got underway and rejoined formation, with
     no apparent damage. Believe now that their system is to stop when there
     is a torpedo attack.
0330 A very discouraging and disappointing night. Commenced working around to
     astern of convoy, to maintain contact and give position reports to other
     subs. One torpedo left forward.
0415 Lost contact. Steamed on base course 065°T. Commenced stopping every
     ten minutes and listening on sound.
0550 Picked up pinging dead ahead.
0630 Sighted smoke of convoy dead ahead. Decided to wait for morning stars then
     send contact report. Commenced trailing, just keeping tops of masts in
     sight by periscope.

     Reported attack, results:
     and position of convoy.
     Began to get worried late in morning as no one else had attacked the convoy
     In checking back discovered that I had left out the "O" in the latitude
     Felt very badly and after-noon position at-
     Corrected error and giving latest
1415 position of convoy.
1714 Felt better when we felt 3 torpedo explosions and saw large geyser of water
     in the smoke of the westernmost ship of convoy. She started smoking
     heavily, apparently stopped, while the other two Marus pulled away to east-
     ward. I thought one Maru had been hit.
     Lat. 2°-47'N; Long. 143°-58'E.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

November 29, 1943 (17th) Cont.
1715 Felt and heard first of about 20 depth charges.
1740 Went ahead full speed on 4 main engines to close escorts. Figured that a
     sub at 300 feet with a lot of torpedoes wasn't doing much good with 3
     perfectly good and fat Marus still afloat and in sight. Our idea was to
     have escorts sight us and give chase thus drawing them away from submerged
     submarine who was being depth charged. We were certain we could outrun
     them on the surface from our previous contacts.
1822 Last of depth charges.
1825 Both escorts started after us, firing their guns, which appeared from
     flashes and splashes, to be smaller than 3 inch. We were well out of range
     and the closest shell must have landed not nearer than 4-5,000 yards astern.
     Opened range at 19 knots.
1853 Escorts ceased firing and headed up toward convoy. In spite of original
     3 torpedo explosions we had felt, there were still 3 Marus afloat and
     none apparently damaged. However, we were never close enough to see more
     than their masts and stacks.
1900 SJ radar definitely out of commission, but we began working around and
     closing to maintain sight contact 5-6 miles astern. Stopping every 10
     minutes to listen on sound.
2000 Lost contact. Waited for evening stars and at -
2043                                                 Reported position of convoy.
2145
2204 Sighted 5 distinct and evenly spaced explosions, 6-7 seconds apart, bear-
     ing 130°T. well over horizon. Explosions not felt. Immediately thereafter
     sighted a red flare (our emergency recognition signal for the time) on same
     approximate bearing, but much closer. Changed course to head toward.
     Lat. 2°-13'N; Long. 144°-15'E.
2215 Stopped to listen and picked up two sets of pinging, one dead ahead and one
     bearing about 345°Rel. Started to work around to south to get ahead of
     pinging. Intermittent pinging heard at various times to northwest of us
     until at -
2355 Sighted small patrol type vessel bearing about 330°Rel.(100°T), distant
     about 4,000 yards. Turned away and went ahead full on four main engines.
     Marus not sighted. Looks as though the escorts may be patrolling astern.
     Lat. 2°-09'N; Long. 144°-30'E.

November 30, 1943 (18th)
0005 Two sets of pinging in direction of sight contact of 2355. Continued to
     work around to south, to try to get ahead, stopping every 15 minutes to
     listen.
                                                 Directed to continue track-
     ing for night and then to head for base.
0045 Slowed to full on 3 main engines (No. 2 main engine stopped to investigate
     valve trouble).
0130 Doubtful sound contact (Pinging 320°Rel.; 090°T).

ENCLOSURE (A)
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1 0116
Subject:
U.S.S. RATON (S3270) Report of First Her Patrol.
November 30, 1943 (18th) Cont.
0210 Set course on 110°T to intercept convoy on its estimated daylight position.
Best estimate of his base course 125°-130°T. speed 9.5 knots. Continued
to stop every 15 minutes to listen on sound. This course is in a
direction of point CDOR.
0647 Made trim dive.
1
0715 Surfaced. Shortly after surfęcing lookout reported periscope about 2,000
yards on port beam. Turned away at flank speed and put it astern. In a
few minutes we discovered it to be a stick bobbing up in water. Resumed
base course. (1109).
0735 Started passing through debris and wreckage, scattered over an area 2-3
square miles, in a MM-SE direction. One large piece appeared to be the
top of e pilot house. One metal life boat partially subrierged, with oars
still in boat. Some of the debris looked like it had been in wator for
quite awhile, but other debris looked relatively fresh could be. Some-
body must have gotten in last night.
0917
Reported dobris's position and that we had
lost contact with convoy last night.
0927 Sighted mests bearing 250°T destant about 15 miles. Turned toward to in-
vestigate. Lat. 1º-01'N; Long. 146°-01'E.
0939 Masts appeared to be a PC or smell DD, heeded in our general direction, so
we reversed course to E, put him astern, and went ahead full on 3 main
engines (No. 2 Hain engine out of commission renewing dofective exhaust
valves). He was fast and he closed rapidly. Lat. 10-01'N; Long. 146°-01'E.
0945 Ren into a heavy and convenient rain squall and lost him. Shortly there-
after we made a radical change of course to eastward. Continued to reko
¡frequent radical changes of course, working to castward.
1030 Main lifted momentarily and we sighted him again bearing 280°T.
con-
tinued series of heavy rain squalls until 1300 were very welconc. Never
sighted him again.
1120 During a momentary let-up of rain, sighted what appeared to be the conning
tower and shears of a friendly submarine, bearing 218°T, distant 4-6 miles,
Turned away to avoid.
Lat. 10-08'N; Long. 1460-291
1126 11 4 main engines in commission and went ahead full.
1300 Rain stopped. Slowed to 2 mein engines (75-90), and steadied on courso
090°T.
1505 Tent ahead 75-90: 3 mein engines as we were behind schedule.
1615 Changed course to 105°T.
Continued squally during afternoon and night. Very dark night with frequent
heavy rain squalls.
December 1, 1943 (19th)
0823 Changed course to 122°T, heading for ODOR.
ENCLOSURE (4)
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1

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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War
Patrol.
1 0116
December 1, 1943 (19th) Cont.

1900 C/C to 125°T.

December 2, 1943 (20th)
Continued foul weather. Frequent heavy rain squalls. Very poor visibilit
0157 C/C to 157°T.
0632 Submerged for all day dive.
1837 Surfaced. Weather improved.
2040 Sighted what appeared to be the loom of a flashing light bearing 275°T,
(direction of KILINAILAU ISLAND) well below horizon. Unable to determine
whether bomb exploding, searchlight, or gunfire. Had no particular time charac-
teristics of such, so about 10 minutes.
2208 C/C to 122°T.

December 3, 1943 (21st)
0548 Submerged for all day dive. Clear partially overcast sky.
1836 Surfaced. Ahead 75-90 on 3 main engines.

December 4, 1943 (22nd)
Clear partially overcast sky.
0000 Ahead 75-90 on 4 main engines.
0140 C/C to 155°T.
0450 Sighted ship bearing 160°T, distant about 6 miles, probably escort. C/C to
0515 Exchanged recognition signals with escort (CAP DES PALLES - Free French) close.
Fell in astern of escort, proceeding toward TULAGI, various courses and speeds.
1000 Had received no routing instructions beyond MILNE, but felt pretty sure
that we were supposed to by-pass TULAGI. Rechecked all messages. The escort
had no instructions for us, other than to escort us to FIND. Finally, decided
to go into TULAGI for 2-3 hours and get squared away. Could make up time lost
later. Also, had a man we had left there whom we wanted to pick-up.
1200 Entering TULAGI Harbor, various courses and speeds.
1239 Anchored in Berth 16, TULAGI Harbor. Went ashore, but could get no further
information. Left message for RDO TULAGI to transmit to CTF72, giving our time
of departure and route to MILNE BAY.
1420 Transferred BOYD, Jack L., 337 79 58, S2c, USN to Naval Station, TULAGI.
1430 Underway, standing out.
1450 BISTAK, A.S., 708 83 68, F3c, USNR reported on board for duty from NS, TULAGI
1450 Cleared harbor in company with escort (CAP DES PALLES), heading for FIND.
1922 Escort left us. Steadied on course 245°T, going ahead 75-90 on 3 M.E.'s.

December 5, 1943 (23rd)
Overcast, moonlight night.
0000 Ahead 75-90 on 4 main engines.
0015 C/C to 230°T.
0600 Slowed to 75-90 on 3 main engines.
0650 Sighted plane (Plane contact No.3) low in water, distant about 2-3 miles.
Came out of cloud bank. Exchanged recognition signals. Not picked up by radar.
Appeared to be 2 engine medium bomber (B-25-Army). Lat. 11°-15'S; Long. 156°-40'E.
1500 C/C to 281°T.
2158 C/C to 290°T.

December 6, 1943 (24th)
Overcast, moonlight night.
0032 Slowed to 75-90 on 2 main engines.
0621 C/C to 321°T.
0806 Sighted escort (USS CUCAL) and exch.sig. Formed up astern of escort,
1415 Arrived MILNE BAY.
#

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1 0116

Subject: U.S.S. R.TON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS
No. & Date | Time | Lat. Long. | Type | Initial Range | Est.Course & Speed | How Contacted | Remarks
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
1 | 0625, Nov.21 | 7-04S 159-40E | BiPlane Single Float | 4 miles | 000 - none | SD | Dived. Similar to our type SCOUT.
- | - | - | - | - | - | - | -
2 | 1209, Nov.26 | 1-02S 148-10E | Float RUFE Type | 6 miles | Various - Patrolling | SD | Dived. This plane escorting convoy (Ship contact #2).
- | - | - | - | - | - | - | -
3 | 0650, Dec.5 | 11-15S 156-40E | Mitchell B-25 U.S. Army | 2-3 miles | 270°T medium | SD | Exchanged Recog. Sig.

H. ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. R.TON (SS270) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 1
Time: 2315(L) Date: 11/26/43 Lat. 0°-40'N; Long. 148°-14'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
Description: Convoy consisting of two merchantmen and two PC escorts. Attacked the first and larger merchantman. Second ship not identified. Contact made by smoke on horizon in daylight. Cloudy, moonless night during attack, sea calm.
Ships sunk: One AK, 7500 - 8000 Tons (Conservative estimate) TBT. 2 decks at Center Island, well decks, slightly raked for'd, counter stern, oil burning. Similar to KULGAWA MARU, P.89, O.N.I., 208J.
Ships damaged or probably sunk: NONE.
Damage determined by: Saw three torpedo hits in target. Target later disap- peared from radar screen at 7000 yard range at which it had previously been clearly visible. Investigation twenty minutes later revealed only one merchant- man at scene of attack, with escorts, apparently picking up survivors.
Target Draft: 18ft. Course 350. Speed 10 knots. Range 2430 yds.

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 14 | Course 086 | Depth 17 | Angle 80P

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Type Attack: Surface radar. Attack on second target was thwarted by the prema- ture explosion of the third torpedo fired. Second target evaded and presented a very unfavorable angle before the stern tubes could be brought to bear. Of the five torpedoes fired #1, 2, and 4 hit. #3 prematured, and #5 missed astern. One degree spread was used, covering 150% of the target length. TBT bearings were used in conjunction with radar ranges.

ENCLOSURE (L)
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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

ATTACK #1(Cont.)
                 #1       #2       #3       #4       #5
TUBES FIRED      80P      82P      83P      84P      85P
TRACK ANGLE      002      002.5    359.5    001.5    357
GYRO ANGLE       12       12       12       12       12
DEPTH SET        High     High     High     High     High
POWER            Hit      Hit      Premature Hit      Miss
HIT OR MISS      No       No       Yes      No       No
ERRATIC          14-3E    14-3E    14-3E    14-3E    14-3E
MARK TORPEDO     39470    25638    25286    39380    39300
SERIAL NO.       6-1      6-1      6-1      6-1      6-1
MARK EXPLODER    18266    7330     7302     6555     7290
SERIAL NO.       Influence Inf.     Inf.     Inf.     Inf.
ACTUATION SET    Impact   Impact   Impact   Impact   Non-
ACTUALL IMPACT   16-2     16-2     16-2     16-2     16-2
MARK WARHEAD     369      1801     1991     2195     2162
SERIAL NO.       TPX      TPX      TPX      TPX      TPX
EXPLOSIVE
FIRING INTERVAL  8 seconds
SEA CONDITIONS   calm
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY Repair Unit 89
REMARKS          1° spread used.

U.S.S. RATON (SS270) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL NO. 1
Time 1209 (L) Date 11/28/43 Lat. 1° 40'N; long. 141°45'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
Description: Convoy of five Marus and two PC escorts. One Maru of 8 - 10,000
             tons, four Marus of 5-7,000 tons. Contact by smoke on horizon in daylight.
             Overcast sky. Sea slightly agitated.
Ships Sunk: One AK 5-7000 tons, HFM, One Deck, Split superstructure, Raked
             Bow. Cruiser Stern, Coal burner. Similar to Heiyo Maru, P.195, ONI 208J.
             One AK 5-7000 tons, KLFMFK, Clipper Bow, spoon stern, 2 deck, well,
             Coal burner. Similar to TATUHO MARU, P.77 ONI 208J.
Ships damaged or probably sunk: NONE.
Damage determined by: Five torpedo hits. Two seen by C.O., five heard. Ships
             heard breaking up thru hull. Two hours later came to periscope depth. Only
             3 of original 5 Marus in sight. Later contacts substantiated presence of only
             3 Marus remaining.
Target draft: 20' Course 122 Speed 9.5 Range 1410

ON SHIP DATA
Speed 3 Course 196 Depth 65' Angle 95P

ENCLOSURE (1.)
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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

ATTACK NO. 2 (Cont.) FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Type Attack: Day periscope. Attack originally aimed at large ship which was
astern of the other four. These were in line of bearing. At last minute a
sharp right zig of the entire formation, brought the four smaller ships into
an overlapping position. #1, 2, and 4 torpedoes probably hit the nearest ship
on the bow of which the initial set up was made. #3 and 5 probably hit the
far ship which was leading and overlapping the nearship. A 2°spread was ap-
plied on the basis of 1° left, 1° right, 3° left, 3° right, etc. #6 torpedo
is believed to have prematurelyed in the wake of the first target. The times of
the explosions would indicate the likelihood of the above dispersal.

ATTACK NO. 2
                 #1     #2     #3     #4     #5     #6
TUBES FIRED      95P    97P    98P    100P   102P   103P
TRACK ANGLE      359    009    004    008    359    007
GYRO ANGLE       13     13     13     13     13     13
DEPTH SET        High   High   High   High   High   High
HIT OR MISS      Hit    Hit    Hit    Hit    Hit    Premature
ERRATIC          No     No     No     No     No     Yes
MARK TORPEDO     14-3B  14-3B  14-3B  14-3B  14-3B  14-3B
SERIAL NO.       39306  25634  39353  25637  24571  25644
MARK EXPLODER    6-1    6-1    6-1    6-1    6-1    6-1
SERIAL NO.       7332   18241  7296   18240  6548   7336
ACTUATION SET    Inf.   Inf.   Inf.   Inf.   Inf.   Inf.
ACTUATION ACTUAL Impact Impact Impact Impact Impact Impact
MARK WARHEAD     16-2   16-2   16-2   16-2   16-2   16-2
SERIAL NO.       961    2169   9998   963    2222   2164
EXPLOSIVE        TPx    TPx    TPx    TPx    TPx    TPx
FIRING INTERVAL  8 seconds
SEA CONDITIONS   calm
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY Repair Unit 89
REMARKS: 1, 2, 4 hit first target; 3, 5 hit second target. 2° spread used.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3
Time: 2332(L) Date: 11/28/43 Lat. 2° 37'N; Long. 142°14'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
Description: Convoy of remaining 3 ships of Attack No. 2 with escorts. Slightly
             overcast, moonless night. Sea calm.
Ships sunk: None.
Ships damaged or probably sunk: None.
Damage determined by: ---
Target Draft: 20' Course: 055 Speed: 10 Range: 2300

ENCLOSURE (L)
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Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

ATTACK NO. 3 (Cont.)

| | #7 | #8 | #9 | #10 |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| TUBES FIRED | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| TRACK ANGLE | 74S | 75S | 76S | 77S |
| GYRO ANGLE | 194 | 193.5 | 196.5 | 195 |
| DEPTH SET | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| POWER | High | High | High | High |
| HIT OR MISS | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss |
| ERRATIC | No | No | No | No |
| MARK TORPEDO | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B |
| SERIAL NO. | 39276 | 25396 | 39309 | 25427 |
| MARK EXPLODER | 6-1 | 6-1 | 6-1 | 6-1 |
| SERIAL NO. | 18242 | 6637 | 7291 | 6633 |
| SITUATION SET | Inf. | Inf. | Inf. | Inf. |
| SITUATION ACTU.L | None | None | None | None |
| MARK ARMED | 16-2 | 16-2 | 16-2 | 16-2 |
| SERIAL NO. | 2177 | 2161 | 1966 | 1999 |
| EXPLOSIVE | TPx | TPx | TPx | TPx |
| FIRING INTERVAL | 8 seconds |
| SEA CONDITIONS | calm |
| OVERHAUL ACTIVITY | Repair Unit 39 |
| REMARKS: | 1° spread used. Prematures on bow tube shots about 50 seconds |
| | previous to firing no doubt resulted in detection. |

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 4

Time: 0302(L) Date: 11/29/43 Lat. 2°50'N; Long. 142°39'E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
Description: Convoy of remaining 3 berus of attack No. 3 with escorts. Slightly
overcast, moonless night. Sea calm.
Ships Sunk: None.
Ships damaged or Probably sunk: None.
Damage determined by: --
Target Draft: 20ft. Course: 090 Speed: 9.8 Range: 3230

ON SHIP DATA
Speed: 5 Course: 072 Depth: 17ft. Angle: 30P.

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Type attack: Night surface radar. This attack was from ahead of the convoy,
the submarine remaining dead in the water until range had closed to approxi-
mately 4000 yards. The SJ radar failed at range 8000 yards, with the re-
sult that all subsequent input to the T.D.C. came from the bridge. Sound
did not have a turn count. The angle on the bow varied from 0 to 30P, so
that the spread applied was 0, 0, ½°R, ½°L. The Submarine was detected
at time of firing and resultant evasive measures undoubtedly contributed to
all four torpedoes missing.

ENCLOSURE (A.)

-17-

— page 27 —
1 0116

-18-
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

ATTACK No. 4 Cont.
| | #7 | #8 | #9 | #10 |
|:|:----|:----|:----|:----|
| TUBES FIRED | | | | |
| TRACK ANGLE | 30P | 30.5P | 31P | 31.5P |
| GYRO ANGLE | 166 | 165.5 | 165.5 | • 166 |
| DEPTH SET | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| POWER | High | High | High | High |
| HIT OR MISS | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss |
| MAGNETIC | No | No | No | No |
| MARK TORPEDO | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B |
| SERIAL NO. | 39299 | 39379 | 25604 | 25663 |
| MARK EXPLODER | 6-1 | 6-1 | 6-1 | 6-1 |
| SERIAL NO. | 7335 | 5182 | 6550 | 6549 |
| ACTUATION SET | Inf. | Inf. | Inf. | Inf. |
| ACTUATION ACTUAL | None | None | None | None |
| MARK WARHEAD | 6-1 | 6-1 | 6-1 | 6-1 |
| SERIAL NO. | 929 | 2950 | 11189 | 11376 |
| EXPLOSIVE | TPx | TPx | TPx | TPx |
| FIRING INTERVAL | 10 seconds |
| SEA CONDITIONS | calm |
| OVERHAUL ACTIVITY | Repair Unit 89 |

REMARKS: #7 Tube fired by hand. Failure to hit probably due to being
detected.

I.
MINES
None observed.

J.
ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES & EVASION TACTICS
Nothing new.

K.
MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE
(1) Nov. 14. On dive lost power on bow planes. Found series relay out of ad-
justment (in tilting panel). Bow planes operated satisfactory for short
period then again lost power. Inspection found "Rigging Interlock" mechanical
arm had gathered rubber face plate gasket in between electrical contacts.
New and modified gasket installed, bow planes satisfactory.
(2) Nov. 20. On daily inspection of main engine crankcases found several part-
icles of bearing metal in No's. 1 & 3 engines. Inspected Cohrod bearings
in No. 1 engine - satisfactory. Bearings on 6 and 14 No. 3 engine
upper halves pitted. These bearing were replaced.

ENCLOSURE (L)
-18-

— page 28 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject:
K.
                                                                -19-
                                                                                                1 0116
                                        U.S.S. R.TON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

                                        MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (Cont.)

(3) Nov. 22. Pulled bearings on No. 1 ME(ConRod). Replaced No. 1 connecting
            rod bearing, upper half, because of score and slight pitting.
            Auxiliary engine lost fuel suction. Serrated drive shaft to gear
            type attached fuel pump had seared adjacent to driving gear. Installed
            new pump.
(4) Nov. 24. Rocker arm assembly holding down bolts broke out of stud bosses
            No. 2 unit, No. 3 main engine, causing roller on rocker arm to break and
            injector barrel to bulge. Replaced with spare head and new running gear.
(5) Nov. 24. Rocker arm roller and exhaust valve bridge No. 1 unit, No. 2 ME
            showed signs of wearing. Replaced with spare roller.
(6) Nov. 26. On Daily Crankcase inspection, found several particles of bearing
            metal in No. 3 main engine. Replaced pitted upper half No. 6 ConRod bear-
            ings.
(7) Nov. 30. Lash adjusters No. 8 unit No. 2 engine began to roll under. Re-
            placed 4 exhaust valves in head assembly, stems heavily carbonized causing
            them to stick in guides.
(8) General. Hydraulic plant operated unsatisfactorily after the third day
            following departure from Brisbane due largely to a defective automatic by-
            pass valve. This valve was improperly centered and unevenly seated when
            closed with the result that the plant charged continuously and rendered
            erratic operating pressures. The control piston below the valve was heavily
            scored and pitted and with continued use of the plant, proceeded to impede
            the operation of the by-pass valve even further. After the valve had ceased
            operating entirely and stuck in its sheeve, the original Manitowoc Ship-
            building Company Valve was reinstalled. This latter valve will operate the
            system but constitutes a serious hazard in that the leather cup washer
            carries away in the system periodically.

L.                  R.DIO

            None. All Serials received. R.TON'S Serial #6 (290257) to CTF72
            was receipted for by station VII (Thursday Island) at 1415 LOVE, November
            29, 1943, but apparently it was not relayed on. Evidently G.TO received
            the message (Reference: G.TO'S message 290645 - MR BL 1838).

M.                  R.D.R

            Nov. 18. The SJ training gear froze because of lack of lubrication in the
            bronze bushings of the clutch. No method of lubrication is provided.
            Dressed bushings with emery cloth, drilled lubricating holes through
            bushing, bearing, and reinstalled. Operation slightly loose but satisfactory.
            The performance of the RC equipment is covered in a separate report.
            however, there was considerable evidence of enemy radar activity.
            Nov. 26. Tuning switch on SJ Radar failed during 1st attack.
            Nov. 29. The SJ Radar went out of commission because of the failure of the
            McNally Tube (707A) in the convertor unit. We replaced the entire convertor
            unit and the Radar now operates but cannot be tuned accurately until a
            target is available.

'ENCLOSURE (A)
                                                                -19-

— page 29 —
-20-
1 0116
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

N. SOUND AND SOUND CONDITIONS
Generally good in the area Lat. 3°N to 2°S and Long. 142°E to 152°E.

O. DENSITY LAYERS
Encountered heavy layer at 280 feet November 28, 1943, while evading
after Attack No. 2. A negative gradient of 4°was encountered.
Lat. 1°-40'N; Long. 141°-45'E.

P. HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY
Generally good.

Q. PERSONNEL
The performance of duty and conduct in combat of all personnel was
excellent, and in keeping with the highest traditions of the NAVY. Par-
ticularly outstanding was Lieutenant Commander Manning H. Kimmel, USN,
Executive Officer and Navigator, whose assistance, determination and calmness
in combat was invaluable and a great boost to the morale of all hands.
Lieutenant Commander Frank A. Bewley, USNR, Diving Officer, did an excellent
job during his baptism in combat and actual depth-charging. Lieutenant
James B. Grant, Jr., USNR, TDC Operator, was superb in his analysis of the
problem and getting the right answers. It is a good feeling to know that
you have good, solid citizens down below, while you are standing up on the
bridge at night, charging in at high speed to make an attack on a ruthless
enemy.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-20-

— page 30 —
1 0116
-21-
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War
R.
MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED
(a) Base (Brisbane) to Area   2620.7 miles;   28376 gals.
(b) In Area                   2062.9 miles;   25597 gals.
(c) Area to Base (Milne Bay)  1519.3 miles;   21446 gals.
* Pit Log Miles.

S.
DURATION
(a) Days enroute to Area   11
(b) Days in Area            7
(c) Days enroute to Base    6
(d) Days submerged          6

T.
FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
TORPEDOES (no)   FUEL (Gals.)   PROVISIONS (Days)   PERSONAL FACTOR (Days)
1                37700          50                   35
Limiting factor this patrol: TORPEDOES.

U.
REMARKS
The results obtained from firing 12 torpedoes while on the surface, the
night of 28-29 November, 1943, were disheartening and disappointing. Particularly
heartbreaking was our 3rd attack (8 torpedoes), when we had an excellent position,
undetected, target's course, speed, and range, and then have the first 4 torpedoes
premature. The only thing I can say good about prematures is that they confuse
the escorts, who are probably Jap PC boats who are probably bent over backwards
used to them also. However, there are at least two Jap PC Boats who are probably
to be sure that we were getting the 8-9 second firing interval. If anybody wants
to really find out how long a period of time 8-9 seconds is, all he has to do is
to stand on the bridge of a submarine, on a dark night, while charging in at high
speed to make an attack on a ruthless and determined JAP. On the last attack we
increased the firing interval to 10 seconds. On the 1st attack we were making a-
round 14 knots, speeding up after commence firing. Since all prematures oc-
cured from the bow tubes, and 5 of them while firing from the surface, it is now
felt that with this type exploder mechanism, we can always expect prematures when
firing the bow tubes from the surface, because of the relative shallow firing
depths. It is also believed that the normal up angle of the submarine on the
surface will tend to make prematures more likely to occur. The depth charges
going off may also be a contributing factor. After two year's war experience
with this type of exploder, it is hoped that the answer is not long in forth-
coming, one way or another.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-21-

— page 31 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War
U. Patrol.
REMARKS (Cont.)

Even after the poor results of our night surface attacks, I am still con-
vinced that, until the JAPS get faster AS escorts and better night AS equipment,
this form of attack on a dark night (accepting a torpedo run of 2000-25000 yards
the best chances of success, and fullest advantage should be taken of this fact.
By being able to stay on the surface, you not only increase your chances of get-
ting away undamaged quickly, to make another attack, but you are also able to re-
tain the initiative.

The new paint job never got a fair test, because of our numerous prema-
tures. During the tracking exercises with the COUCAL, while enroute to the area,
on full moon nights, it did not seem to make any difference, as the COUCAL was
able to sight us anytime when within a range of 9-10000 yards. However, except
on our last attack (No. 4), when we unavoidably had to give one of the escorts
(Range about 2500 yards) about 15°-20°silhouette, just before firing, we were
never detected prior to closing in to 1500-2000 yards. Even after the torpedoes
prematured, it is doubtful in my mind, if we were ever actually sighted before
we closed to 1500 yards on the surface, as evidenced by the erratic and wild gun
firing of the targets and escorts, and the indiscriminate dropping of depth
charges by the escorts, immediately after they got any inkling of a submarine
being nearby. All surface attacks were made on dark, partially overcast nights,
with a dark and favorable background.

The lessons learned during the tracking exercises, while enroute to
the area with the COUCAL, were invaluable and paid off when the blue-chips were
down.

[UNCLEAR: illegible text block]

ENCLOSURE (A)
-22-

— page 32 —
COMMANDER SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHT

                                                                16 December 1943.

A16-3

Serial

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
First War Patrol of
the U.S.S. RATON.

From:          The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHT.
To   :          The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.

Subject:       U.S.S. RATON - First War Patrol.

          1.     The first war patrol of the U.S.S. RATON was
an extremely short and aggressive patrol. The patrol was
of 24 days duration of which 8 were in the combat area.
During these 8 days 3 contacts were made with the enemy and
4 attacks were delivered. Two of these 4 attacks were
successful and resulted in the sinking of 1 8,000 ton
freighter and 2 6,000 ton unidentified ships. Prematures,
no doubt, prevented further damage to the enemy.

          2.     Upon return from patrol the material condition
of the U.S.S. RATON was very good. During this patrol the
U.S.S. RATON experienced excessive main engine trouble, mostly
due to bearing failures. The ships force accomplished the
necessary repairs. The U.S.S. RATON will be given a short
refit by the U.S.S. FULTON.

          3.     The Commanding Officer, officers and crew
are congratulated on completion of a highly successful first
war patrol.

                                                                W. M. DOWNES.

— page 33 —
FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Pk
Serial 0404

CONFIDENTIAL

2nd ENDORSEMENT to
CO RATON Report of
First War Patrol

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

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of First War Patrol;
comments on.

1. RATON departed BRISBANE on her First War Patrol
on 13 November 1943. In company with PETO conducted four
days training in tracking and simulated approaches. U.S.S.
COUCAL acting as a target, enroute TULAGI where RATON top-
ped off fuel on 20th. Departed same day for patrol north of
BISMARCKS Archipelago. 24 November in area northeast of
KAVIENG. On 25th, ordered to westward of LUSSAU to patrol
TELEW - TINGWON route. Enroute sighted two northbound marus,
with two escorts. Prevented from immediate approach by air
cover, started chase in late afternoon. At 2315, near 00°-40'
N., 148°-14' E., made radar surface attack, firing five tor-
pedoes at larger target. One premature, saw three hits on
target. Evaded the escorts on surface. Target sunk. RATON
made four attempts to conduct second attack on remaining
ship engaged in rescuing survivors but was detected each
time at about five thousand yards and forced to retire under
gunfire of escorts. Lost contact in poor visibility and pro-
ceeded to westward on 27th. At 1005 November 28th, sighted
RABAUL bound convoy of one large, four medium freighters
with two escorts. In an aggressive attack at 1209, fired
six torpedoes at two overlapping marus. One premature and
five hits. At last view one target had started to break up.
Went deep to avoid heavy depth charge attack. No damage.
Heard second ship break up one hour later. At 1405 back at
periscope depth to see three remaining ships and escorts get
underway on eastward course. RATON surfaced at about two
square miles of wreckage. Set out in chase after reporting
convoy course for benefit of other submarines closing in.
At 2332 on 28th in surface radar attack fired eight torpedoes
at same convoy near 1°-40' N., 141°-45' E., four prematures.
Possibly one hit on after maru of column but no visible dam-
age. Outran escorts on surface. Resumed tracking and at
0300 29th made third attack firing four stern tubes. De-
tected just at firing, target evaded and escorts came in
fast. Again outran them on surface. RATON had only one tor-
pedo left but regained contact and sent in reports for bene-
fit of GATO, PETO and RAY. Trailed convoy hearing GATO at-
tack at 1714. Closed convoy at full speed and made sight

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

13 December 1943.

— page 34 —
FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Pk
Serial 0404
CONFIDENTIAL
f
TASK FORCE SEVENTY-TWO,
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
13 December 1943.
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of First War Patrol;
comments on.
contact with escorts depth charging GATO. Withdrew before
gunfire of escorts, drawing them away from GATO. 2204 heard
RAY. being chased away from convoy. Continued trailing on
30th until daylight when ordered return to base. Sighted
small DD or patrol craft during morning. Evaded in rain
squall. Arrived MILNE BAY vie TULAGI 6 December 1943.
Twenty-four days on patrol, eight days in the patrol area,
fired twenty-three torpedoes obtaining eight hits, six pre-
mature explosions.

2. This short aggressive first patrol promises even
greater destruction to Japanese shipping in future patrols.
Two contacts were made and each was developed skillfully in-
to attacks, the second contact, a five maru convoy, being
persistently trailed and harried by three successive attacks..
Torpedo performance was extremely poor in the bow salvo of
the fourth attack. While the speed at firing was only eight
knots, tests have indicated possibility of erratic runs and
prematures from surface attack with bow tubes at higher
speeds. RATON will make next patrol with inactivated explod-
ers due lack of materials for improved influence circuit.

3. The tactics used were admirable. In the face of
alert escorts, the Commanding Officer coolly pushed home
every attack to minimun range consistent with visibility and
used his greater speed to outrange escorts. The cooperation
in drawing off escorts attacking GATO was greatly appreciated-
by latter and enabled her to maintain contact to successfully
attack at noon next day sinking another ship of convoy.

4. The RATON material condition is excellent. Will
be given four day overhaul alongside tender and transferred
to operational control of Commander Task Force SEVENTY-ONE.

5. This patrol is designated as successful for pur-
poses of award of Submarine Combat Insignia.

6. The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO congratu-
lates the commanding officer, officers and crew on their out.
standing and brief first patrol and on inflicting the follow--
ing damage on the enemy:

- 2-

— page 35 —
FROM WORLD'S SUBMARINE FORCE
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,

FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Pk
Serial 0404

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of First War Patrol;
comments on.

— page 36 —
A16-3/55(1)
COMSOPAC FILE
A16-3(6)/(11)
Serial: 058
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
OF THE UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET
HEADQUARTERS OF THE COMMANDER
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
From:
To :
Via :
Subject:
1.
2.

3rd Endorsement on
CO RATON Report of
First War Patrol.
[STAMP: RECEIVED
sr
6 JAN 1944
552]
Reg. No. 19795
R.S. No. 04579

Commander South Pacific.
Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
U.S.S. RATON (SS 270), Report of First War
Patrol.
Forwarded.
The Commanding Officer and Crew are to be
congratulated on a highly successful and aggressive first
war patrol.
3.
It is to be regretted that the large number
of prematures aided the enemy in escaping without much
greater damage. It is hoped that the Bureau of Ordnance
will develop a reasonably reliable exploder in the immediate
future.

Copy to:
CTF 72
CO RATON
4th
18 JAN 1944
Endorsement
Cinc Pacific Fleet
To: [HANDWRITTEN: Comind.]
Via;
1. Forwarded.
[SIGNATURE: P.V. Mercer]
P. V. MERCER,
By direction.
[SIGNATURE: Carney]
ROBT. B. CARNEY,
Chief of Staff.
[STAMP: COMMANDER IN CHIEF
U. S. FLEET
RECEIVED
1944 JAN 22 01]

— page 37 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

SS270/A16-3
Serial 02-44
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
                                        U.S.S. RATON (SS270)
                                        Fleet Post Office
                                        San Francisco, Calif.

                                        25 January 1944

From:        The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. RATON.
To :         The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via :        Official Channels.

Subject:     U.S.S. RATON, Report of War Patrol Number 2.

Enclosure:   (A) Subject Report.
             (B) Track Chart of subject Patrol.
             (C) Time Plot of Contacts and Attacks of subject
                 Patrol.

1.           Enclosure (A), covering the second war patrol of this
vessel conducted in MINDANAO - CELEBES - HALMAHERA area during the
period December 11, 1943 to January 25, 1944, is forwarded herewith.

                                        [SIGNATURE: J. J. DAVIS]
                                        ls/ J. J. DAVIS.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

65596 [STAMP: FILMED]

— page 38 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON Report of .2nd. War Patrol

PROLOGUE

A. Returned to MILNE BAY, NEW GUINEA, December 6, 1943, from First
War Patrol. Alongside U.S.S. FULTON until December 11, 1943 for short re-
fit and rest period. Only necessary work accomplished.

B. NARRATIVE

December 11, 1943 (1st)

0700 (L) Underway to conduct sound tests of machinery and check for leaks.
1030 (L) Tests completed. Moored alongside U.S.S. FULTON.
1300 (L) Underway in company with RAY and PC 476 (escort) standing out
of MILNE BAY, in accordance with CTF 72 Operation Order No.
S64-43 of December 10, 1943.
1752 (L) At rendezvous with COUCAL. Went close aboard COUCAL and trans-
ferred (via line throwing gun) officer mail.
1857 (L) Commenced tracking exercises and simulated attacks on COUCAL
as target and PC 476 as its escort.

December 12, 1943 (2nd)

Continued tracking and simulated attacks on COUCAL.
0615 (L) Sighted friendly merchant ship (Ship Contact 1) bearing 150°T,
distant about 15 miles, on opposite and parallel course. Kept
well clear.
0850 (L) Sighted US Army B-17 Plane (Plane Contact 1), distant about 10
miles.
1925 (L) Sighted unidentified plane (Plane Contact 2), distant about 12
miles. Did not sight us. Probably friendly patrol.

December 13, 1943 (3rd)

Continued tracking and simulated attacks on COUCAL.
0816 (L) Sighted plane (Plane Contact 3), B-25 (Mitchell) distant about
7 miles. Submerged.
0958 (L) Surfaced. Closing COUCAL.
1725 (L) At rendezvous, southwest of East CAY, with COUCAL, RAY and
PC 476. Too rough for gun practice. Went close aboard COUCAL
and received officer mail via line throwing gun.
1835 (L) Exercises completed. COUCAL departed. Formed column with RAY
and PC 476, heading for BRAMBLE CAY.
2055 (L) Anchored in company with RAY and PC 476, south of BRAMBLE CAY.
Sea rough. Dragged anchor during night and had to shift berth.
Holding ground poor.

ENCLOSURE (A) -1-

[STAMP: 2 C1894]

— page 39 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

December 14, 1943 (4th)
0715 (L) Underway in company with RAY and PC 476. Commenced transit of
TORRES STRAITS. Overcast, squally, rough sea, wind force 4-5.
1820 (L) Completed transit. Released PC 476. Sighted friendly merchant
ship (Ship Contact No. 2) anchored in Prince of Wales Channel.
1915 (L) Took departure from BOOBY ISLAND. RAY left formation, pro-
ceeding independently.
1942 (L) Sighted friendly merchant ship (Ship Contact No. 3) standing
into Prince of Wales Channel. Exchanged recognition signals.

December 15, 1943 (5th)
0700 (L) Set all clocks back one (1) hour to minus ten (-10) zone time
(K). During afternoon made training dive, held drills and
fire control problem.

December 16, 1943 (6th)
0846 (K) Sighted plane (Plane Contact 4), distant about 6 miles on
course 210°T. Two (2) engine bomber, similar to JAP type 97
(NELL). Dove. Apparently not sighted. Lat. 9°-45'S; Long.
135°-02'E. During day made three training dives, held drills
and fire control problem.

December 17, 1943 (7th)
1030 (K) Sighted 2 engine bomber (Plane Contact 5), LANCASTER type,
bearing 310°T, distant about 7 miles, low over water. Dove.
Apparently not sighted. Lat. 9°-45'S; Long. 130°-20'E.
During day made 3 training dives and held fire control problem.
2135 (K) Sighted plane (Plane Contact No. 6), with running lights on,
bearing 160°T, distant about 5 miles. Apparently not sighted.
2136 (K) Sighted what appeared to be a small powered searchlight, bear-
ing 170°T, distant about 6-7 miles. Light on for about 2
minutes, then not seen again. Lat. 10°-40'S; Long. 128°-56'E.

December 18, 1943 (8th)
0930 (K) Sighted RAY at rendezvous.
0940 (K) At rendezvous with IL 814, standing in swept channel to DARWIN.
1254 (K) Moored alongside fuel dock, DARWIN, and commenced fueling.
Received 23,900 gallons of Diesel oil.
Reported to CTF 71's representative (Commander H.J. JENSEN,
USN) for duty. Received Patrol Orders.
1744 (K) Underway standing out of swept channel, DARWIN. SD out of
commission. Antenna grounded out. Unable to use ARC equip-
ment. Unable to effect repair.
Numerous friendly planes and ships sighted vicinity DARWIN.

ENCLOSURE (L)
-2-

— page 40 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-L-L
December 19, 1943 (9th)
1500 (K) Set all clocks back one hour to zone minus nine (-9) time (I).
1505 (I) Sighted plane (Plane Contact 7) overhead 6-7,000 feet. C
out of a cloud. Apparently sighted us same time. Made fast
dive to 150 ft. While passing 50 feet heard noises like peb-
bles striking side of ship. Apparently machine gun bullets.
Plane did not drop any bombs or depth charges. Was a Jap 2
engine bomber (BETTY). Rising sun clearly seen on wings.
Lat. 90-29'S; Long. 1280-13'E. Plane was on course 230°T.
A close one!
1630 (I) Periscope depth, nothing in sight.
1646 (I) Surfaced.
1823 (1) Sighted high peaks on TIMOR ISLAND, bearing 280°T, distant a-
bout 70 miles.
2100 (I) Sighted TIMOR ISLAND, distant about 20 miles, bearing 290°T.
2137 (I) Changed course to 000°T, and commenced transit of passage be-
tween TIMOR, KISAR, ETAR -LETI, ROMANG ISLANDS. Several
white lights observed on LETI ISLAND.

December 20, 1943 (10th)
0130 (I) Completed transit and slowed to standard on 2 main engines.
Set course to pass 10 miles west of GUNUNG API ISLAND.
0549 (I) Submerged.
1853 (I) Surfaced.
2100 (I) Set all clocks back one (1) hour to Zone minus eight (-8)-(H)

December 21, 1943 (11th)
0435 (H) Submerged off west coast of BURU ISLAND. Patrolled 5-7 miles
off coast on N.. course. During day sighted smoke on beach
several times and one small sail boat close in shore.
1830 (II) Surfaced. Upon surfacing discovered SD radar antenna and
porcelain cap carried away. Later in night located it on
deck aft of conning tower. Hecovered same. Probably carried
away when diving or surfacing, as it was not heard to fall on
deck.
Several white lights observed on shore of. BURU ISLAND.

December 22, 1943 (12th)
0437 (H) Submerged off western entrance OBI STRAIT. Patrolling on
N-N Course, 5-7 miles off shore.
0500 (H) Sighted small fishing vessel, on southeasterly course.
Passed well clear to westward. Considerable debris large
logs and driftward - in western entrance OBI STrait.
1839 (H) Surfaced. SJ radar erratic. Changed convertors. Unable to
tune SJ radar no target.
1845 (H) Set course for NAYO ISLAND to tune SJ on high peaks of that
island. Numberous white lights observed on shore of TAMALI
ISLAND.
2104 (H) Entered area.

-3-
2 01894
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 41 —
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December 23, 1943 (13th)
0204 (H) Sighted MAYO ISLAND, bearing 350 T, distant 12 miles. Closed
  to 4 miles of shore and lay to, tunning SJ radar. No signs of
  life on MAYO.
0345 (H) Completed tunning of SJ radar. Set course for MOROTAI STRAIT.
0450 (H) Submerged. MAYO ISLAND in sight.
1755 (H) Surfaced. Set course to patrol off entrance MOROTAI STRAIT.
2330 (H) Patrolling off entrance MOROTAI STRAIT, on course 315ºT, speed
  10 knots. Stopping every 30 minutes to listen on sound.

December 24, 1943 (14th)
0105 (H) Radar contact (Ship Contact No. 4) bearing 330ºT, range 14,000
  yards. Reversed course to track. Lat. 2º47'N; Long. 127º-40'E.
0114 (H) Went to Battle Stations. Continued tracking. Apparently a
  convoy of 4 ships. One very large pip, one slightly smaller
  and two other medium pips - all targets and 2 escorts
  which were not PC's or SC's, probably DD's as their pips came
  on the screen at 10,000 yards. Very dark night, squally and
  overcast. Visibility very poor and the targets were not seen
  from the bridge, until the range had closed to about 6,500
  yards, and then details very hazy. Convoy on course 125ºT,
  speed 9 knots, not zigzagging, and escorts were not pinging.
0203 (H) Commenced firing at largest target, first of 6 torpedoes,
  range 2,200 yards, torpedo run 1,900 yards. Torpedo from
  No. 4 tube, then fired, went out to right about 20 yards, then
  left about 40 yards, then straightened out.
02-04-24 (H) First hit on largest ship.
02-04-30 (H) Second hit on largest ship. Both these hits seen, heard,
  and felt from bridge.
02-04-48 (H) Third probable hit heard below.
0206 (H) Commenced firing after nest, range 2,650 yards, at next
  largest and closest target to us. Just prior to firing the
  bow tubes, a rain squall had settled over target group,
  making them very difficult to distinguish. Had to use radar
  bearing for set-up on stern tubes. The two escorts appeared
  to be destroyers, one patrolling on starboard bow of largest
  leading ship of formation. The other escort was on far
  side of target group. Unable to definitely determine type
  of formation, but it appeared to be an open order affair.
  Shortly after firing stern nest, a heavy rain squall set in,
  completely obscuring targets. Wakes of torpedoes very luminous
  and visible.
02-08-10 (H) Heard and felt torpedo hit on second target. One escort
  commenced closing at high speed, and we retired to westward
  at full speed on all 4 M.E.'s. For next 5 minutes it was nip
  and tuck as range to one escort had closed to 1,100 yards.
  One red flare from vicinity of target group and two red flares
  from vicinity of nearest escort.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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December 24th (14th) Cont.

0209 (H) First of many depth charges.
0210 (H) Loud rumbling explosion from vicinity of targets - not depth
          charges.
0213 (H) Very loud rumbling explosions from vicinity of target - not
          depth charges. At same time, explosion seen from bridge on
          first target. Large, orange -yellowish flames, which momen-
          tarily silhouetted the target.
0215 (H) Began to open out on escort (range 2,700 yards). Rain
          squall had passed. From SJ ranges and bearings, escort
          appeared to be searching at high speed, slowing now and
          then (apparently to listen), making radical changes of
          course; and occassionally dropping depth charges. Forced
          us to West-Northwest.
0220 (H) Searchlight in vicinity of target group - appeared to be
          signalling. Went off in about 3 minutes. At same time
          observed an orange-yellowish glow in vicinity of target
          group, which persisted for about 10 minutes, and then faded
          out. During this time, there were continued flare-ups from
          this glow, apparently large fire and secondary explosions
          on the target.
0245 (H) Lost escort on radar, range 10,000 yards, bearing SE.
          Decided at this time there was no chance for another at-
          tack before daylight, with less than two more hours of
          darkness and a moon. Escort had forced us to West-North-
          west, 15 miles from attack point. By daylight convoy
          would be well down in MOROTAI STRAIT and 2 hours was not
          time enough to work around ahead for daylight attack.
0250 (H) Broke off and reloaded. Patrolling on SANGANI -
          HALMAHERA LINE.
0315 (H) Last of depth charges. Total dropped 20 to 30. Because
          of poor visibility, we were unable to definitely determine
          types of targets and escorts, except one of the KAKUS
          (1st target) was very large, considerable top hamper
          (2-3 decks), relatively large, low stack (Estimated at least
          10,000 tons). The second target was somewhat smaller, but
          also had considerable top hamper (Estimated 8-9,000 tons).
          The other two ships in convoy were medium sized KAKUS
          (Estimated 5-6,000 tons). The two escorts were either
          small destroyers or very large SC's. The first target was
          the largest enemy ship we had seen thus far, and also the
          largest pip for relative ranges we have yet observed on
          the radar screen. While evading the escort, lost contact
          with rest of convoy to SE, at 15,000 yards while range to
          escort was at 5,000 yards.
0453 (H) Submerged.
1049 (H) Sighted small dug-out native boat. No occupants. Lat.
          2°-57'N; Long. 126°-52'E.
1753 (H) Surfaced. Patrolling during night S-SW of TALAUD ISLAND
          group. Speed 10 knots, stopping every 30 minutes to listen
          on sound. During night sighted several white light. [HANDWRITTEN: 01894]
          SALEBABOE ISLAND.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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December 25, 1943 (15th)
0456 (H) Submerged South of Talaud Group. Kaboeroecang Island in sight.
1805 (H) Surfaced. Set course for Sarangani Islands.

December 26, 1943 (16th)
0450 (H) Submerged SE of BALUT ISLAND, distant about 20 miles. Patrol-
     ling on N course.
1820 (H) Surfaced. During night patrolled off south coast of MINDANAO.
     Speed 10 knots. Ten miles off coast. Occasionally sighted
     white lights on the beach during night.

December 27, 1943 (17th)
0455 (H) Submerged. Patrolling 5-10 miles off south coast of MINDANAO.
1540 (H) Sighted small native boat close in toward shore. Soon out of
     sight.
1825 (H) Surfaced. Set course to pass south of BALUT ISLAND and to re-
     turn to SARANGANI - DAVAO - HALMAHERA line.

December 28, 1943 (18th)
0505 (H) Submerged. MOROTAI ISLAND bearing 250°, distant about 12
     miles. Had been set to S during night.
1745 (H) Surfaced. Position doubtful.
     Closed TALAUD group to fix position.
2230 (H) Established position. Patrolling HALMAHERA - SARANGANI Line.

December 29, 1943 (19th)
0510 (H) Submerged.
1746 (H) Surfaced. Set course to patrol off entrance of MOROTAI STRAIT.

December 30, 1943 (20th)
0443 (H) Submerged. Patrolling off entrance MOROTAI STRAIT.
1823 (H) Surfaced. Set course to patrol east of MOROTAI ISLAND, ap-
     proaches to KAU BAY.

December 31, 1943 (21st)
0425 (H) Submerged. Patrolling off east coast of MOROTAI ISLAND, 5-6
     miles off shore.
1817 (H) Surfaced. Set course to patrol east and north-east of TALAUD
     ISLAND Group on PALAU route.

January 1, 1944 (22nd)
0503 (H) Submerged, 35 miles east of TALAUD. During day closed coast
     and established position.
1828 (H) Surfaced. Set course to patrol N-E of TALAUD on PALAU Route.

January 2, 1944 (23rd)
0507 (H) Sighted masts of 2 ships (Ship Contact No. 5) bearing 093°T,
     distant about 15 miles. Submerged and commenced approach.
     Estimated course of ships 230°T, speed 14 knots. Lat 5°N;
     Long. 128°-15'E.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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January 2, 1944 (23rd) Cont.

0525 (H) Third ship sighted - FUBUKI class destroyer. Other 2 ships
          were large tankers, not loaded. Closed at high speed, on
          normal approach.
0549 (H) Sighted another 4 ships (Ship contact No.6) bearing 254°T,
          range 14-15,000 yards, on course about 065°T, speed 13
          knots. Ships were 3 large loaded tankers and 1 unidentified
          small destroyer. Lat 5°N; Long. 128°-05'E.
0600 (H) Broke off approach on first convoy and started approach on
          second. We were in better position on this convoy and they
          were loaded.
0610 (H) Both convoys changed course to head for each other; apparently
          we were at a rendezvous point. At this time the 2 destroyers
          exchanged positions, the FUBUKI destroyer taking the 3 loaded
          east bound tankers. The next fifteen minutes were slightly
          confusing. With 5 tankers and 2 destroyers converging on
          us, it was difficult to pick out a target. Each time we
          got a set-up on one, it would make a radical maneuver. At
          a range of 4,500 yards, we were dead ahead of one of the
          loaded tankers and slightly on the starboard bow of a second.
          Formation of the loaded tankers was line of bearing, distance
          between tankers about 1,000 yards, with destroyer patrolling
          ahead. At a range of 2,500 yards, loaded tankers zigged
          and the destroyer headed directly for us, zero angle on bow and
          pinging (first pinging we had heard from it). Then it continued toward
          us, decided it meant business, and it was not a normal zig.
0627 (H) Went to 250 feet, rigged for depth charge, and commenced
          evasive tactics. Destroyer passed over us, without dropping
          any depth charges, nor was there any evidence of it having
          made a contact on us. Realized then that it was premature
          in going deep. However, with screws all around us, could
          not come up to redeem my error, until it was too late for
          an attack.
0700 (H) First convoy (light, loaded tankers) hull down to south-west.
          Second convoy (loaded tankers) in sight to north east. De-
          cided to go after loaded tankers.
0818 (H) Surfaced. Went ahead full on 4 main engines, tracking and
          working around to north to get ahead. Two of tankers were
          NIPPON MARU CLASS. The other one was slightly larger. The
          FUBUKI class destroyer had a signalling light on the top
          of its fore mast and apparently mounted to rotate through
          360°. Nothing that looked like a radar installation.
1149 (H) Sighted what appeared to be masts and structure of small
          ship, bearing 030°T, just above horizon.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-7-
[STAMP: 2 01894]

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January 2, 1944 (23rd) Cont.
1150 (H) Appeared to be closing so submerged to avoid being detected.
1240 (H) Cleared R.TON Serial (020216) reporting contacts.
and resumed chase. Dive costs us 30° in true bearing on convoy.
1330 (H) Regained contact. Convoy appeared to be on base course 040°T,
speed 13 knots. Light smoke occasionally and difficult to
keep in sight. After evening twilight closed on true bearing
of targets.
1810 (H) Made radar contact on convoy at 16,000 yards. Commenced track-
ing until 2030. Found his base course to be 005°T, speed 12-
13 knots, zigzagging between 345°T and 025°T, with short zigs
for awhile then periods of long zigs - no rhyme or reason to
its plan. Night very clear with a bright moon. Decided to
wait until moonset (2330) for attack hoping to get 10 off on
two of the tankers.
2330 (H) Moonset.
2350 (H) Went to battle stations, closed to 12,000 yards to check set-
up. Night still very clear, with few clouds forming on horizon.
Able to see all tankers from bridge, 13-14,000 yards. The
tankers were in line of bearing, distance 1,000 yards, with
the destroyer astern of center tanker, and patrolling rear
of formation. No pinging from destroyer.

January 3, 1944 (24th)
0145 (H) A few clouds had formed on horizon astern of us giving us
some background. Flooded down and commenced closing in.
Set stern torpedoes at 6 feet for shot at destroyer.
0222 (H) Commenced firing bow tubes at nearest tanker, at a range of
about 3,000 yards. A few minutes before firing, targets
zigged away, increasing range, and at time of firing they
were all in line, presenting only one target, 90° starboard
angle on the bow. With background none too favorable and a
90° track, decided at last minute to fire at this range, be-
fore being detected. At time of firing destroyer was on port
quarter of nearest tanker, range from us about 4,000 yards.
0223 (H) Went ahead full and swung hard right, heading for dark horizon
to southeast. No chance for stern tube shot at destroyer be-
cause of excessive range.
0224 (H) First of 3 torpedo hits - seen, heard and felt from bridge.
First hit was aft in line with stack and a very high order
explosion. Second hit amidships, and third hit at bridge.
Heavy rain squall had settled in horizon beyond targets mak-
ing them difficult to see. This was the weakest counter-
attack we have experienced, so far. The destroyer seemed
bewildered and apparently we had not been sighted even
after firing. He made no attempt to close us. We opened
out rapidly.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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January 3, 1944 (24th) Cont.

0226 (H) One yellow and one red flare from tanker (target). Yellow
     flare was seen to fall back on the bow of tanker and burn for
     short period. Target hit was NIPPON MARU class tanker (10,000
     tons). Besides other features, it had single heavy tripod
     kingpost aft.
0227 (H) Heavy rumbling explosions from vicinity of target - not
     depth charges. Target settling fast aft.
0229 (H) First of about 7 depth charges. At this time other two
     tankers had scattered. Destroyer remaining in vicinity of
     target. Target pip fading on radar.
0235 (H) Target faded out on radar screen at a range of 9,100 yards,
     apparently gone down. We had been getting ranges on him
     previously better than 17,000 yards. Closed out to 12,000
     yards from firing point and reloaded.
0247 (H) Strong radar interference on SJ screen. Pulse about same
     height on screen as our SJ pulse. Faded out in about 20 minutes.
0250 (H) Completed reload. Closed firing point to regain contact.
     Strong odor of fuel oil in vicinity of firing point. No
     wreckage seen.
0320 (H) Secured from battle stations and went ahead full on 3
     main engines running a search curve to regain contact. No. 4
     main engine had developed a knock. All hands pretty well
     tired out.
0500 (H) Radar contact at 029°T, range 17,000 yards. Sighted 2
     tankers and mast of destroyer from bridge at same time.
     Targets were coming out of rain squall.
0505 (H) Targets quite visible, so submerged to avoid being sighted.
     Were on course between 090°T-100°T, apparently having changed
     base course to eastward at daylight.
0549 (H) Targets out of sight on bearing 040°T.
0603 (H) Surfaced. Went ahead full on 3 main engines. Resumed chase,
     working around to South to get ahead.
0621 (H) Smoke of convoy bearing 055°T. Closed to verify number of
     ships.
0630 (H) Sighted masts of and stacks of only two tankers and the
     one destroyer. Confirms our belief that 3rd tanker sank.
0650 (H) Cleared R.TON Serial 2(022047) reporting attack and new
     position, course and speed of convoy.
0844 (H) Sighted masts of ship (Ship contact No. 7) bearing 105°T,
     distant about 7 miles. Came out of horizon haze and sun glare.
     Appeared to be closing. Submerged to avoid detection. Lat.
     8°-38N; Long. 130°-37'E.
0900 (H) Ship identified as MOLO class destroyer. Apparently we
     had been sighted as it had changed course toward us. Remained
     at periscope depth to evade.
0911 (H) First of 4 depth charges - not close. Destroyer circled us
     at slow speed between 3-5,000 yards. Pilled around at slow
     speed for awhile. No pinging.

ENCLOSURE (A)
     -2-
[STAMP: 2 C1894]

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January 3, 1944 (24th) Cont.

1000 (H) Destroyer out of sight to east. Apparently joining up with
     convoy. Figured that chances of regaining contact with con-
     voy were now very slim, as result of being sighted and forced
     down by the destroyer.
1217 (H) Surfaced. All clear. Set course for own area and to pass
     through firing point of morning attack.
1530 (H) Cleared TON Serial 3 (030617) reporting last position of
     convoy, that we had lost contact, and were returning to area.
1551 (H) At firing point of Attack No. 2. Large oil slick, over a
     2-3 square mile area, and scattered debris. At one relative
     large spot the oil on surface as very thick - estimated 8
     to 10 inches thick. Baled out bucket-fulls of practically
     straight oil. Appeared to be a poorly refined grade of crude
     oil. Took a sample. Also, recovered a wooden crate, con-
     taining a new well constructed chair, a desk, and 8 keys.
     Took chair down below and lashed the desk topside. (Fell apart
     after two day's submerged patrolling) Saved a wooden plaque
     with Japanese characters written on it, which was nailed to
     the crate. Milled around area for an hour and half.
1715 (H) Set course to make landfall off PUSAN POINT (East coast of
     MINDANAO).

January 4, 1944 (25th)

0510 (H) Submerged, with land in sight, estimated about 15 miles off
     shore. Closed coast to establish position. Patrolled on
     southwesterly course 8-10 miles off shore.
1830 (H) Surfaced. Position doubtful. Set course to make landfall
     on PALMAS ISLAND.
2156 (H) Made landfall on PALMAS ISLAND and fixed position. Had been
     set south.
2200 (H) Set course to patrol off CAPE SAN AGUSTIN.

January 5, 1944 (26th)

0228 (H) Sighted CAPE SAN AGUSTIN.
0453 (H) Submerged 8 miles east of CAPE SAN AGUSTIN. Set course for
     SARANGANI ISLANDS, patrolling off entrance of DAVAO BAY.
     Crossed DAVAO Gulf to Southwest during day.
1833 (H) Surfaced, about 18 miles east of SARANGANI ISLANDS. Set course
     to patrol west of SANGI and SIAOE and then off MENADO -
     BALIKPAPAN route, north of CELEBES.

January 6, 1944 (27th)

0500 (H) Submerged. Patrolling south and west off SANGI.
1311 (H) Surfaced. Set course for north coast of CELEBES off MENADO.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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January 7, 1944 (28th)

0510 (H) Submerged off ANOLING BAY, CELEBES, 3-4 miles off shore.
1131 (H) Sighted masts of small Maru, (Ship contact No.8) bearing
    050°T, range about 16,000 yards. Escorted by small trawler
    type). Went to Battle Stations and commenced approach.
    Course 228°T, speed 11.6 knots. Escort tried to close
    to close for shot at high speed on normal approach. Sent
    by about 14,200 yards. Decided size (2,000-3,000 tons) of
    target was not worth torpedo at that range. Lat. 1°-15'N;
    Long. 124°E.
1250 (H) Broke off approach and changed course to westward. Target
    was unlike any type seen before. Had two (2) stick masts,
    no stack, no booms, split well deck, clipper bow, cruiser
    stern, small rectangular bridge structure on stern. Had
    life boat slung over stern. Did not smoke. Light loaded
    (estimated draft 7-8 ft.). Looked like a very small tanker.
1835 (H) Surfaced. Set course to westward to patrol North Coast
    CELEBES about 10 miles off shore.

January 8, 1944 (29th)

0830 (H) Patrolling off CAPE KADI (CELEBES).
0508 (H) Submerged. Patrolling 2-3 miles off reefs, eastern approach
    BILANG BAY.
0953 (H) Sighted masts of small vessel bearing 121° T, distant about
    6 miles, inside reefs.
1025 (H) Sighted small Maru (Ship contact No. 9), on same general
    bearing, astern of first vessel. Went to Battle Stations
    and commenced approach. Ships identified as same two sighted
    previous day (Ship contact No.8). Decided to take shot at
    her.
1101 (H) Commenced firing stern tubes on 90° starboard track range
    about 2,000 yards. Land background made ranging diffi-
    cult. Realized just before firing that I had underestimated
    range and overestimated speed of target.
    All missed. Had then set on 6 ft. Smoke and wakes of tor-
    pedoes very visible. They looked good. Target turned
    away and paralleled tracks, and wakes of torpedoes straddled
    target - 2 wakes on each side. Escort started closing us.
    Went deep and rigged for depth charge. Lat. 1°-10'N;
    Long. 121°-45'E.
1107 (H) First depth charge - fairly close.
1121 (H) Last depth charge (total of 6) much closer. Retired to
    north east. Screws of escort heard to stop astern of us.
    No pinging.
1251 (H) Periscope depth. All clear. Continued to northwest.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

[STAMP: 2 01894]

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January 8, 1944 (29th) Cont.

1609 (H) Sighted float type (PETE) plane (Plane Contact No.8) bearing 160°T,
     distant 4-5 miles, patrolling between us and land on east-west
     course. When he closed to about 3 miles, we went to 150ft.
1709 (H) Periscope depth. All clear.
1850 (H) Surfaced. Set course to patrol BALIKPAPAN - PALAU tanker route.

January 9, 1944 (30th)

0120 (H) Sighted smoke bearing 270°T, distant about 20 miles (Ship contact
     No.10). A bright moonlight night, excellent visibility to west.
     Closed smoke and commenced tracking. Convoy consisted of 2
     freighters, and 2 escorts. Determined speed to be about 9
     knots, on base course 070°T. Lat. 3°-10'N; Long. 122°-27'E.
0145 (H) Heard 3 distinct underwater explosions.
0330 (H) Went to Battle Stations and continued tracking.
0430 (H) Started closing in. Moon had set and numerous rain squalls
     had closed in making surface attack feasible within next
     half-hour. Plans were to attack, bearing with one escort
     trailing and other patrolling ahead. All went well until the
     leading escort apparently got suspicious. At any rate his
     range decreased rapidly from 6,400 yards to 2,350 yards, with
     no appreciable change in bearing. He had also increased his
     pinging suddenly. Range to target at this time was 3,800
     yards. Could not see the escort at 2,500 yards. Background
     more favorable to escort.
0455 (H) Broke off attack. Went ahead full on all 4 main engines and
     opened cut. Resumed tracking. Planned to get ahead for day-
     light attack.
0510 (H) Heard 3 depth charges, confirming our suspicion of having been
     detected. After daylight, frequent rain squalls and poor
     visibility made it difficult to keep targets in sight.
0800 (H) Lost contact. Set course to patrol his estimated 1100
     position.
1000 (H) Patrolling 5 miles each side and normal to his base course.
1020 (H) Convoy suddenly came out of rain squall, bearing 270°T,
     distant about 5 miles. Dove and went to Battle Stations.
     Commenced approach. Unable to close to range less than
     4,500 yards, using high speed on normal approach. At this
     time could see that escorts were one destroyer (similar to
     MOMO class) and one large trawler type. Larger freighter
     identified as HAGUE MARU. Other was about same size. Both
     coal burners.
1148 (H) Broke off attack.
1330 (H) Smoke barely in sight. Surfaced and resumed chase.
1800 (H) Had worked dead ahead of targets on base course 070°T. Closed
     in for night tracking. Full moon, partially overcast, squally,
     and spotty visibility. Decided to track during night, attack-
     ing if possible before daylight, either submerged or surface,
     if opportunity arose. Otherwise, make a dawn attack submerged.

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INCLOSURE (a)

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January 10, 1944 (31st)

During night target made several radical changes of base course
to right. Difficult to determine what he was doing at the time.
0400 (H) About this time convoy appeared to have settled on a base
course of 085°T.
0514 (H) Sighted SANGI ISLAND. Had been set to south.
0530 (H) Submerged dead ahead of targets on base course 085°T.
East of targets in sight. Working around to get on north
side of them. Estimated convoy would shortly head directly
for passage between MATOETOEANG and DOBERAI ISLANDS, pas-
sing close aboard of KAIALOESOE.
0600 (H) Convoy made a radical change of course to left (about 50°),
and for about 1 hour was not observed to zigzag. Unable to
close range to less than 10,000 yards. About 0800 he re-
sumed base course of 070°T, passing south of, and close to,
KAIALOESOE. Now realized that he had made a landfall on
SANGI, then changed course to north, to get back on his track.
Discouraging to have convoy get by after 30 hours contact.
Decided to continue to patrol in vicinity of KAIALOESOE,
as believe this is one route the BALIKPAPAN traffic follows
to PALAU.
1230 (H) Smoke of convoy out of sight to northeast.
1830 (H) Surfaced. Patrolled off KAIALOESOE during night, NE-SW
courses.

January 11, 1944 (32nd)

0450 (H) Submerged 5 miles south of MATOETOEANG ISLAND. Patrolled
during day on E- courses.
1822 (H) Surfaced. Set course to SE to send message reporting time
of leaving area.
2130 (H) Cleared R.TON Serial 4 (111205) to NPL. Unable to raise
VIXO. Set course to south to leave area.

January 12, 1944 (33rd)

0509 (H) Submerged. About 18 miles north of MAYO ISLAND.
1815 (H) Surfaced.

January 13, 1944 (34th)

0000 (H) Decided to patrol off MANIPA STRAIT. Went ahead full on
4 main engines.
0622 (H) Sighted plane (Plane contact No.9) bearing 220°T, distant
about 7 miles, on course about 330°T. Made a fast dive to
200ft. to evade. Apparently sighted, as it was seen to
change course toward us, while clearing bridge. As two-
engine, monoplane. Did not drop anything. Unidentified,
probably a plane from AMBON on routine operational-adminis-
trative flight to MENADO. Remained submerged for remainder
of day.
1825 (H) Surfaced. About 25 miles off entrance MANIPA STRAIT. Went
ahead full on 3 main engines to patrol off KELANG-MANIPA
STRAITS until moonrise. Closed to 5 miles off KELANG and
patrolled at 5 knots on E-W Course.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-13-
[STAMP: 2 01894]

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January 13, 1944 (34th) Cont.

2000 (H) licorice.
2030 (H) Changed course to N-W to patrol off BARU ISLAND and to dive
       off western side of that island in morning.

January 14, 1944 (35th)

0130 (H) Sighted large fire on land in vicinity of ALLANA (BARU ISLAND).
       Believed started by lightning. Still burning at daylight.
0510 (H) Submerged. Patrolling 10-15 miles off west coast of BARU.
1825 (H) Surfaced.
2100 (H) Patrolling MAKASSAR - TICOR STRAIT - AMBON route on westerly
       course.
2300 (H) Changed course to south for patrol off DILI (TIMOR).

January 15, 1944 (36th)

0615 (H) Submerged.
1807 (H) Surfaced.

January 16, 1944 (37th)

0543 (H) Submerged about 10 miles N. of DILI harbor entrance. Set
       course to patrol off harbor and reconnoiter.
1330 (H) Closed to point 3 miles, bearing 000°T, from DILI LIGHT
       (H.O. Chart 3002), 1 mile outside 100 fathom curve. Took
       pictures.
1345 (H) Cleared harbor entrance and set course to westward patrolling
       3-4 miles outside 100 fathom curve. DILI harbor is a relative
       open roadstead, with some lee close inside, on western side.
       Wind during day was from west - force 4-5 knots, choppy sea
       and many whitecaps. Beach in vicinity of Light and to
       the westward was flat and sandy. No surf or swells apparent.
       No shipping of any kind observed in harbor. Not even a small
       boat. No planes were observed during day. The only place
       that looked like an air field was a cleared opening through
       the trees, right down to the beach, about 1 to 2 miles west
       of the Light. Back from the beach it appeared to be flat
       for a distance of 1-2 miles. DILI Light tower was observed
       to be the same as described in H.O. Publication No. 163.
       About 2 miles east of the light, and close to the beach,
       were 2 grayish colored towers, which we were unable to identify.
       They were about 150 to 200 feet in height. No radio towers
       were observed. No piers or wharfing facilities were observed.
       No buoys of any kind were observed, although the condition of
       the sea today made it difficult to locate any buoys. There
       was a slight haze over the town during the day. The town ap-
       peared to be centered around the Light, back up in the hills
       and to the westward. Houses and buildings appeared to be
       modern in construction, and many of them were quite conspicuous
       by their red roofs. Scattered houses were observed along the
       shores, and in the hills back of shore, all the way from DILI
       to CAPE PARIBALLA. A road ran along the shore from the Light
       to the westward about 5 miles and then appeared to cut inland.

ENCLOSURE (A)
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January 16, 1944 (37th) Cont.
Peaks near shore, tangents and the Light made it easy to establish
position at all times. Clouds and haze obscured the higher peaks
inland. After surfacing, in the vicinity of M.UB.R., numerous
lights were observed moving in the hills. Appeared to be lights
on motor vehicles. Currents in the vicinity of DILI were variable
in force and direction. Apparently close inshore there are eddy
currents from the predominantly easterly current setting in OBLI
STAIT this time of year.
1900 (H) Surfaced. went ahead full on 3 main engines to patrol and
reconnoiter off KOEPNG tomorrow.

January 17, 1944 (38th)
0445 (H) Submerged, 11 miles NY of C.PE PAKULAK (northern entrance
KOEPANG BAY). Standing down toward entrance to reconnoiter. Dur-
ing morning closed to mile of 100 fathom curve and patrolled
across the entrance from NE to S...
0727 (H) Sighted mediun size sail boat, bearing 187°T, distant a-
bout 7 miles (in vicinity of C.PE KURONG, SELU ISLAND). p-
peared to be patrolling across entrance of BAX, as it crossed
up toward CAPE PAUL, to the scaward of KIRA ISLAND, and then
reversed course. Lost sight of about noon in the vicinity of
SEMU ISL.ND.
1130 (H) Completed patrol off entrance of Bay and set course for
ZINGAPU (a run of about 180 miles during night).
1218 (H) Sighted 2 PC type patrol craft standing out to west from
KOEPLING on about parallel course with us. stimated course
290°-300°T. In sight for over 2 hours, finally disappearing to
N. No pinging was heard from them and they gave no indication
of having a contact on us.
KOOPING was the sano as described in H.O. Publication No.
163. ith westerly winds it is a relativo open roadstced, ind
during day was from west, force 2-3. Sce choppy. Except for the
2. PC boats, and sail boat, no shipping was observed in harbor.
The town appeared centered around OPANG Light (H.O. Cheart No.
3021). Locked particularly for planes, but none were observed.
No buoys of any kind observed. Did not take any pictures as the
distance was considered too great. The nearest we could close
the town, without going inside the 100 fathon curve was 6-7 miles.
There was a light haze ever town during day. Housos appeared
to be of modern construction and wore mostly wite in color. No
radio towers were observed. There was a stick mast (about 150-
200ft. high), with tripod base, on the northern end of TIKUS
ISLAND. Hear poaks and tangents nede it easy to establish position
at all times. High poaks inland observed by clouds. Nothing was
seen that looked like an air field. KER. ISLAND Wes low and flat,
covered with trees, and its beach was white and sandy. The coast
north of CAPS PAKULAK was also white and sandy. There appeared
to be light breakers and surf on the beaches observed. Shore
line of SHAUSLAND was steep and rocky. The structure of C.PD
KURONG light was obscrved. No piers or wharfing facilities were
observed in the B... ilo currents observed.
ENCLOSURE (A.)
-15-
2 01894

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January 17, 1944 (38th) Cont.
1900 (H) Surfaced. Heading across SAHOE SEA for WAINGAPU, to patrol off
and reconnoiter tomorrow.

January 18, 1944 (39th)
0510 (H) Submerged off entrance NANGAMESSY BAY (SUMBA ISLAND). Standing
in toward WAINGAPU ROADS.
0834 (H) One and one half mile outside 100 fathom curve and 4 miles
bearing 025°T from eastern edge of WAINGAPU ROADS (H.O. Chart
No. 3002). Took pictures.
0845 (H) Set course to clear Bay.
1130 (H) Cleared Bay. Set course to eastward heading for Basa.
1143 (H) Sighted plane (Plane Contact No.10), bearing 151°T, distant
about 7 miles, on easterly course and soon out of sight. Not
identified. Lat 9 -30'S; Long. 120 -26'E.
WAINGAPU is about as described in H.O. Publication No. 163.
The town itself is pretty much obscured by trees. Several large
white buildings were noted close to shore. A church steeple was
noted to the southeast of the entrance to the roads. No radio
towers, nor. No shipping of any kind was observed - not even
small craft. Currents were negligible. The roadstead is fairly en-
closed and sheltered during western monsoon. Country around town
is hilly and flat. Near shore line of Bay large trees extend down
to the shore line. From the town to about 6 miles on western side
of Bay, the beach is flat and sandy, with light breakers. The
eastern side of the Bay is wooded down to shore line. No buoys of
any kind were noted. Scattered houses were noted on the western
side of Bay and in the hills inland. There are practically no
peaks on the eastern side of SUMBA to use for navigation. The tan-
gents are fairly reliable. Unable to get a good view of the inside
of WAINGAPU ROADS, because of the trees. Visibility was good.
Land was free of haze. No indication of location of air strips.

January 19, 1944 (40th)
0120 (H) Cleared BARRIER. Set course for FREMANTLE.
0535 (H) Submerged.
0555 (H) Surfaced.

January 20, 1944 (41st)
0545 (H) Submerged.
0555 (H) Surfaced.

January 21, 1944 (42nd)
0545 (H) Submerged.
0552 (H) Surfaced.
2000 (H) Commenced battery discharge at 6-hour rate.

ENCLOSURE (A) -16-

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January 22, 1944 (43rd)

0150 (H) Completed battery discharge.
0537 (H) Taking reen ones over bridge and down the hatch. Slowed
 to full on one main engine.
0923 (H) Seas abating. Went ahead standard on 2 engines.
2145 (H) Cleared Raton Serial 6 (221200) reporting delay.

January 23, 1944 (44th)

Enroute Fremantle, Australia.

January 24, 1944 (45th)

0547 (H) Submerged. Ahead of schedule. Decided to remain
 submerged during day.
1800 (H) Surfaced.

January 25, 1944 (46th)

0600 (H) At rendezvous. Standing in to FREMANTLE via swept
 channel. H.M.A.S. DUBBO escort.
0750 (H) Moored alongside U.S.S. ORION, FREMANTLE,
 AUSTRALIA.

C. WEATHER

 From HILIE BAY to BARRIER, via DAR IN, weather generally
foul. North of BARRIER, seas generally calm. In area, weather was
equally, frequent rain and wind storms, and overcast about 75% of
the time. North of equator the winds varied from NE to West, force
2-5. South of equator to BARRIER the winds were predominantly West,
force 2-4.

D. TIDAL INFORMATION

BANDA SEA - December 20, 1943 - Lat. 6°S; Long. 126°E.
 Set - 270°T; Drift - 1.1 knots.
OBI STRAIT - Western entrance - December 22, 1943.
 Set - 090°T; Drift - 0.5 knots.
SOUTH WEST OF TALAUD ISLAND GROUP - December 24-25, 1943 -
 Set 090°T; Drift - 1.5 to 2 knots.
SOUTH OF SARANGANI ISLANDS - December 26, 1943 -
 Set - 036°T; Drift - 1.0 knot.
SOUTH WEST OF TALAUD ISLAND GROUP - December 29, 1943.
 Set - 036°T; Drift - 1.5 knots.

-17-

ENCLOSURE (A)
2 C1894

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VICINITY MOROTAI ISLAND - December 30-31, 1943.
Set 345°T; Drift - 1.5 knots.
Lat. 3°-4°N, Long. 127°-129°E - December 31, 1943.
Set - 340°T; Drift - 1.1 knots.
VICINITY OF CAPE SAN AGUSTIN (MINDANAO ISLAND) - January 3-4, 1944.
Set - 180° to 210°T; Drift - 1 to 2 knots.
OFF ENTRANCE DAVAC GULF - January 5, 1944.
Set - 225°T; Drift 2 to 2.5 knots.
VICINITY SANGI ISLANDS - January 6, 1944.
Set - 219°T; Drift - 1 knot.
NORTHWEST COAST OF CELEBES - January 7, 1944.
Set - 264°T; Drift - 1.2 knots.
Lat. 1°N to 4°N, and Long. 121°E to 125°E. - January 8-10, 1944.
Set - 225°T; Drift - 1.5 knots.
VICINITY MATCHOLANG ISLAND - January 11, 1944.
Set - 210°T; Drift - 1.6 knots.
Lat. 2°-4°N, Long. 126°E. - January 11-12, 1944.
Set - 175°T; Drift - 1.3 knots.
CERAM SEA - January 13, 1944.
Set - 090°T; Drift - 1.0 knots.

E. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

The light structures at DILI and on CAPE KUNONG (SELAU
ISLAND) were still in place, but were not lighted.

F. SHIP CONTACTS
| No. | TIME | L.T. | INITIAL | LST.COURSE | CONTACTED REMARKS |
| :-- | :--- | :--- | :| :| :|
| | | DATE | LONG. | TYPE | RANGE | SPEED | | |
| 1 | 0615(L) | 11-22S | Merchantman | 30,000 | 090 | SD | Friendly |
| | | 12 Dec 43 | 149-31E | | yds. | - | | merchantship. | Kept well clear. |
| 2 | 1820 (L) | 10-34S | FM-5,000 | 6,000 | - | SD | Friendly |
| | | 14 Dec 43 | 142-09E | tons | yds. | | | merchant ship. | Kept well clear. |
| 3 | 1942 (L) | 10-37S | FM-2,000 | 6,000 | 050 | SD | Friendly |
| | | 14 Dec 43 | 141-52E | tons | yds. | 10 knots | | merchant ship. | Kept well clear. |
| 4 | 0105 (H) | 2-47N | Convoy of 4 | 12,000 | 125 | R | Attack #1. |
| | | 22 Dec 43 | 127-40E | ships and 2 | yds. | 9 knots | | |
| | | | | escorts-not | identified | | | | |
| 5 | 0507 (H) | 5-00N | Convoy of 2 | 20,000 | 230 | SD | | |
| | | 2 Jan 44 | 128-15E | tankers and | yds. | 14 knots | | |
| | | | | 1 DD. | | | | | |
| 6 | 0549 (H) | 5-00N | Convoy of 3 | 16,000 | 065 | P | Attack #2. |
| | | 2 Jan 44 | 128-05E | tankers and | yds. | 13 knots | | Contacts #5 |
| | | | | 1 DD. | | | | | and #6 rendezvous'd, | exchanged escorts, | and resumed routes. |

-18-
ENCLOSURE (.)

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No. | DATE | TIME | LAT. | LONG | TYPE | INITIAL EST. | COURSE | HOW | REMARKS
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
7 | 0844(H) | 8-38N | 130-37E | Merchantman | MONO Class | 14,000 yds. | 304 | SD | Too small
| 3 Jan 44 | | | | | DD | 15 knots | | | for attack,
| evaded as he was
| dropping depth charges.
| Probably sighted us -
| before diving.
8 | 1131(H) | 1-15N | 124-20E | Merchantman and | 18,000 yds. | 228 | P | Unable to
| 7 Jan 44 | | | | 1 escort. | 11.6 knots | | | close to less
| | | | | Merchantman of | | | | | than 4,200 yds.
| | | | | 2-3,000 tons, two | masts-no stacks. | | | | |
9 | 0953(H) | 1-10N | 121-4SE | Same con- | 8,000 yds. | 300 | P | Attack #3 -
| 8 Jan 44 | | | | tact as #8 | 10 knots | | | missed and depth
| charge attack
| followed.
10 | 0120(H) | 3-10N | 122-27E | Convoy of 2 | 40,000 yds. | 070 | SN | Tracked for 30
| 9 Jan 44 | | | | merchantmen | 9.7kts. | | | hours but un-
| | | | | approx. 5-6,000 tons, | | | | | able to attack.
| | | | | and 2 escorts (1DD). | | | | |

PLANE CONTACTS
No. | DATE | TIME | LAT. | LONG | TYPE | INITIAL EST. | HOW | REMARKS
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
1 | 0650(L) | 11-23S | 149-25E | B-17 | 10 miles | Patrolling | SD | Remained on
| 12 Dec | | | | | | | | | surface. Friendly.
2 | 1925(L) | 11-41S | 147-50E | Unidentified | 12 miles | No estimate | SD | Remained on
| 12 Dec | | | | | | | | | surface. Friendly.
3 | 0816(L) | 9-37S | 145-45E | B-25 | 7 miles | 100(T) | SD | Dived-friendly.
| 13 Dec | | | | | | | | | Not sighted.
4 | 0846(K) | 9-45S | 135-02E | 2 engine | 6 miles | 210(T) | SD | Dived. Not
| 16 Dec | | | | bomber Jap type 97, NELL | | | | | sighted.
5 | 1030(K) | 9-45S | 130-20E | LANCASTER | 7 miles | 040(T) | SD | Dived. Plane
| 17 Dec | | | | | | | | | very low over water.
6 | 2135(K) | 10-40S | 128-56E | Unknown | 5 miles | No estimate | SN | Evaded on
| 17 Dec | | | | | | | | | surface. Not sighted.
7 | 0505(I) | 9-29S | 128-13E | BETTY | 1 mile | 230(T) | SD | Dived. Enemy plane.
| 19 Dec | | | | | | | | | No attack made.
| Probably sighted.
8 | 1609(H) | 1-32N | 121-47E | PETE | 4 miles | 315(T) | P | Evaded submerged.
| 8 Jan | | | | | | | | | Not sighted.
9 | 0622(H) | 2-12S | 127-19E | Two-engine | 7 miles | 000(T) | SD | Dived to evade.
| 13 Jan | | | | Unidentified | | | | | Probably sighted.
10 | 1143(H) | 9-30S | 120-26E | Unidentified | 7 miles | 130(T) | P | Not sighted. Re-
| 18 Jan | | | | | | | | | mained at periscope
| depth.

ENCLOSURE (A) | -19- | 2 01894

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G.
                                                                ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. RATON                                    TORPEDO ATTACK No. 1                                PATROL No. 2.
TIME 0203 (B)                                   DATE 12/24/43               LAT. 02-45.5N LONG.127-41.3E

                                        TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:           Convoy of four unidentified ships and two escorts,
                        probably destroyers. Attacked one 10,000 ton ship
                        (estimate). Contact by radar. Visibility poor,heavy
                        rain squalls.

SHIPS SUNK:             None.
SHIPS DAMAGED:          One unidentified 10,000 ton ship, probably sunk.
DAMAGE DETERMINED BY:   Saw from bridge two torpedoes hit target,
                        followed by heavy explosions and fires. Heard third
                        torpedo hit from below. Last observed burning.

Target Draft 20'        Course 125          Speed 9.3 Knots         Range 1900

                                        OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 8 Knots           Course 355          Depth 17 Ft.            Angle 0°

                                FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Night Radar surface attack. TBT bearings were used in conjunction
with Radar ranges. A 1° Divergent spread was used, theoretically
covering 150% of the target length for the set up at time of firing.
The first torpedo was set 1° right, the second 1° left, the third 1½°
right, etc. This system of spreads was employed in all subsequent
attacks of this patrol.

                 ATTACK No. 1
|                | No. 6 | No. 5 | No. 4 | No. 3 | No. 2 | No. 1 |
| Tubes Fired:   | 58S   | 59S   | 60S   | 62S   | 63S   | 64S   |
| Track Angle:   | 008   | 008   | 011   | 009   | 014.5 | 011   |
| Gyro Angle:    | 12'   | 12'   | 12'   | 12'   | 12'   | 12'   |
| Depth Set:     | High  | High  | High  | High  | High  | High  |
| Power:         | Hit   | Hit   | Hit   | Miss  | Miss  | Miss  |
| Hit or Miss:   | No    | No    | No    | No    | No    | No    |
| Erratic:       | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B |
| Mk. Torpedo:   | 25292 | 41719 | 22508 | 39806 | 22235 | 39281 |
| Serial No:     | 6-1   | 6-1   | 6-1   | 6-1   | 6-1   | 6-1   |
| Mk. Exploder:  | 14836 | 11856 | 11861 | 6659  | 12230 | 5607  |
| Serial No:     | Impact| Impact| Impact| Impact| Impact| Impact|
| Actuation Set: | Impact| Impact| Impact| None  | None  | None  |
| Actuation Actual:| 16-2  | 16-2  | 16-2  | 16-2  | 16-2  | 16-2  |
| Mk. Warhead:   | 2107  | 3381  | 2426  | 2105  | 2558  | 5776  |
| Serial No:     | TPX   | TPX   | TPX   | TPX   | TPX   | TPX   |
| Explosive:     |       |       |       |       |       |       |

Firing Interval:        9 Seconds
Type Spread:            DEVERGENT
Sea Conditions:         CHOPPY
Overhaul Activity:      U.S.S. FULTON
Remarks:                Performance of torpedoes, tubes and fire control
                        equipment satisfactory, except torpedo from No. 4 tube when fired
                        went off to right about 20 yards, then to left for about 40 yards,
                        then straightened out.
                                                -20-

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U.S.S. RATON                               TORPEDO ATTACK No. 1                 PATROL No. 2
TIME 0206 (H)                              DATE 12/24/43                      LAT. 02-45.5N LONG. 127-41.3E

                                TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:
                                           Same convoy as attack No. 1 of 12/24/43 attacked
                                           one of remaining Marus. Appears to be 8-9000
                                           tons, unidentified, ship. Visibility very poor.
                                           Heavy rain squall.

SHIPS SUNK:                                 None.
SHIPS DAMAGED:                              One 8-9000 tons, unidentified ship.
DAMAGE DETERMINED BY: Tracks of 4 torpedoes headed directly for group
                                           of targets, which were obscured in rain squall at
                                           time of interception. At least one torpedo exp-
                                           losion was heard within 5 seconds of time when
                                           #8 torpedo should have hit.
TARGET DRAFT 15'                           COURSE 125       SPEED 9.3 RANGE 2700
                                           OWN SHIP DATA:
Speed 14 Knots                             Course 210       Depth 17 Ft.       Angle 0°

                                FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Night Radar surface attack. Because of heavy rain squall targets were
not visible. Bearings were gotten from Radar, using lobe switching.
Unfortunately the entire formation disappeared in a heavy rain squall
before results could be observed. A 1° spread on same basis as that
used in attack No. 1 was employed.

                                        ATTACK No. 1
                                No. 10 | No. 9 | No. 8 | No. 7
Tubes Fired:                    72S    | 74S   | 76S   | 78S
Track Angle:                    168    | 169   | 174   | 170
Gyro Angle:                     12'    | 12'   | 12'   | 12'
Depth Set:                      High   | High  | High  | High
Power:                                 |       |       |
Hit or Miss:                    Miss   | Miss  | Hit   | Miss
Erratic:                        No     | No    | No    | No
Mk. Torpedo:                    14-3B  | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B
Serial No:                      39147  | 39713 | 24042 | 39192
Mk. Exploder:                   6-1    | 6-1   | 6-1   | 6-1
Serial No:                      12264  | 12306 | 12309 | 17075
Actuation Set:                  Impact | Impact| Impact| Impact
Actuation Actual:               None   | None  | Impact| None
Mk. Warhead:                    16-2   | 16-2  | 16-2  | 16-2
Serial No.                      10039  | 10245 | 10042 | 3739
Explosive:                      TPX    | TPX   | TPX   | TPX

Firing Interval:9 Seconds
Type Spread:DIVERGENT
Sea Conditions:CHOPPY
Overall activity:U.S.S. FULTON
Remarks:
                                           Performance of torpedoes, tubes and fire control
equipment satisfactory.

                                           -21-

[STAMP: 2 01894]

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C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
U.S.S. RATON
TIME 0221 (H)

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 2
DATE 1/3/44 LAT. 08-18N LONG. 129-59E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION:
Convoy consisting of three loaded Able Oboes
escorted by one Fubuki Class destroyer, attacked
one 10,000 ton tanker, NIKKOKU. Contact by Radar.
Visibility very good.

SHIPS SUNK:
One AO, identified as Nippon Maru, page 263,
ONI 208J.
SHIPS DAMAGED:
None.
DAMAGE DETERMINED BY:
Saw three torpedo hits. Target settled fast and
disappeared from Radar screen in 13 minutes. Two
hours and half later only 2 tankers and one
escort remained. Fourteen hours later returned to scene
of attack and observed large area of oil and
debris.

Target Draft 28'-29' Course 002 Speed 11.8 Knots Range 3000

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 8 Knots Course 280 Depth 17' Angle 0°

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Night Radar surface attack. Target appeared to be zig zagging 20° on
either side of base course 002° using approximately 6 minute legs. It
was necessary to fire at 3000 yds. due to conditions of visibility
and last minute zig, which were such as to make sighting of the subm-
arine likely at a close range. A 1° spread was used, covering 150%
of target length.

ATTACK No. 2
| | No. 6 | No. 5 | No. 4 | No. 3 | No. 2 | No. 1 |
| Tubes Fired: | 101S | 102S | 103S | 104S | 104.5S | 105S |
| Track Angle: | 001.5 | 002 | 005 | 002.5 | 009 | 003.5 |
| Gyro Angle: | 12' | 16' | 12' | 16' | 12' | 16' |
| Depth Set: | High | High | High | High | High | High |
| Power: | High | High | High | High | High | High |
| Hit or Miss: | Hit | Hit | Hit | Miss | Miss | Miss |
| Erratic: | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Mk. Torpedo: | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B |
| Serial No.: | 39524 | 39660 | 22516 | 23057 | 24052 | 41711 |
| Mk. Exploder: | 6-2 | 6-2 | 6-2 | 6-2 | 6-2 | 6-2 |
| Serial No.: | 6271 | 7061 | 12310 | 12222 | 7085 | 5939 |
| Actuation Set: | Impact | Impact | Impact | Impact | Impact | Impact |
| Actuation Actual: | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 |
| Mk. Warhead: | 1614 | 1417 | 352 | 678 | 2476 | 5643 |
| Serial No.: | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX |
| Explosive: | | | | | | |

Firing Interval: 9 Seconds
Type Spread: DIVERGENT
Sea Conditions: CALM
Overhaul Activity: U.S.S. RATON
Remarks: Torpedoes, tubes, and fire control equipment
performed satisfactorily.
-22-

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U.S.S. RATON
FILE 1101 (H)

DESCRIPTION:

SHIPS SUNK:
SHIPS DAMAGED:
DAMAGE DETERMINED BY:

Target Draft 8'

Speed 3 Knots

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 3
DATE 1/8/44 LAT.01-09N

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED
Convoy of one 2500 ton AK with trawler escort.
Attacked AK, Mast Bridge Mast, 3 island, no
funnel, unloaded.

None.
None.

Course 303 Speed 9.5 Knots Range 2000

OWN SHIP DATA
Course 035 Depth 66' Angle 1° Down

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
The torpedo tracks appeared to bracket the target. The target turned
away sharply at the computed time of interception. It is concluded
that the torpedoes either ran under the target or his evasive tactics
caused the torpedoes to miss. As in the preceding approaches the
spread used was that for 150% of target length.

ATTACK No. 3
Tubes Fired: | No. 7 | No. 8 | No. 9 | No. 10
Track Angle: | 98S | 99S | 100S | 100.5S
Gyro Angle: | 186.5 | 186.5 | 191 | 191
Depth Set: | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6'
Power: | High | High | High | High
Hit or Miss: | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss
Erratic: | No | No | No | No
Mk. Torpedo: | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B | 14-3B
Serial No.: | 39369 | 24023 | 39124 | 39965
Mk. Exploder: | 6-1 | 6-1 | 6-1 | 6-1
Serial No.: | 6332 | 7292 | 12236 | 12224
Situation Set: | Impact | Impact | Impact | Impact
Situation Actual: | None | None | None | None
Mk. Warhead: | 16-2 | 16-2 | 16-2 | 16-2
Serial No.: | 5821 | 2167 | 10927 | 821
Explosive: | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX

Firing Interval: 9 Seconds
Type Spread: DIVERGENT
Sea Conditions: Slightly Choppy
Overhaul Activity: U.S.S. FULTON
Remarks:
During the approach the after Gyro Regulator
failed due to the right slewing power motor relay contactors fusing,
together. In spite of regular cleaning of these relays, they persist
in pitting and arcing excessively.
The poppet valve on #10 tube stuck open after
firing. The stop was closed after considerable water had been shipped.
Inspection later revealed metal shavings under the seat of the poppet
operating mechanism 200# supply valve which had jammed open.

-23-
[HANDWRITTEN: 2 01834]

PATROL No. 2
LONG.121-45.5E

— page 61 —
I.
J.
MINES
None obscrved.
ANTI-SUBMARINE 13 SURES AND EVASION TACTICS.
Nothing now, except there was a complete lack of continuous
pinging
ted from the escort vessels encountered. Their system scons
to be to epend upon listening until they have a contact, and then re-
sort to pinging. Only periodicall do they dake an ocho-ranging sweep.
This lack of pinging makes tracking Lore difficult, particularly in
low visibility.
It is believed that the medium size sail boat, observed off
entrance of KOEING BAY (January 18, 1944), was patrolling.
K.
W.JOR DEFECTS AND DANCE.
Doc. 17 Particles of bearing hotal in No. 3 ongine crankcaso. Renoved
main bearing No. 9-0K and conrod bearings 4,5,6,12, 13 & 14.
Bearings 4, 12 & 13 OK. 5,6 and 14 upper halves were pitted
and replaced.
Dec. 21 Inspected conrod bearings 2,3,10 11 No. 3 main on inc.
Replaced pitted out upper halves of No's. 3,10 & 11.
Dec. 25. Inspected No. 2 & No. 10 conrod bearings No. 2 main engine.
Replaced pitted uper half No. 2 bearing.
Jan. 3 Replaced complete head assembly (spero) No. 6 unit No. 4 HE
duc to sticky exhaust valve stems. Inspected No. 8 & No. 16
conrod boarings, replaced upper half No. 16, slight pits, No.
& OK.
Jan. 8 Upon firing the after tube, the poppet valve on No. 10-tube
stuck upon, causing about 2,500 lbs. of water to enter bilges,
before stop valve could be closed. Inspection revealed metal
shavings under the seat of 2007 air supply valve to poppet
operating mechanism, causing valve to remain open. The
shavings were removed and valve rescated. Test OK..
Prior to firing when the after gyro sotting Indicator Regulator
was cut-in, the regulator fáiled, and gyros were matched by
hand. Later inspection revcaled the right slowing power noter
relay contactors had become fused together. These relays in
both forward and after units become pitted rapidly, even when
cleaned at weekly intervals. No spares are left aboard and
none have been available.
Jan. 12 Renowed upper halves on Conn. Rod bearings 1,9 & 2 on No. 4
main engine. No. 9 very badly pitted..
Jan. 14 No.6 No. 14 Upper halves No. 3. E replaced. Badly pitted.
FERISCOPES: During 2nd wock of the patrol, No. 2 periscope bogen to
fog up, getting pro rossively worse. Nitrogen was recirculated in the
periscope for hour. This improved the periscope for a fow days, but
this periscope still fogs up considerably. The pressure, this periscope,
had dropped to 5 lbs. prior to recirculating.
INCLOSURE (A)
-24-

— page 62 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

The packing in both periscopes requires renewal, as at deep
depths the periscopes leak considerable water and are getting progres-
sively worse. Neither periscope has been pulled since commissioning
of this vessel. It is recommended that both periscopes be pulled
during the refit period and thoroughly checked.

BOW AND STERN PLANES. SHAFTING: Getting very noisy in operation.
HYDRAULIC PLANT: Likewise getting very noisy in operation.
POWER STEERING: also noisy in operation.

TORPEDO DATA COMPUTER: The RAB particularly and ΔA (to a lesser
extent) follow up heads in the position keeper are both deeply pit-
ted, and show excessive arcing during operation. On several occasions
during the patrol the allowable error in generated range was exceeded,
and it was necessary to clean up the trolleys and tracks on the RAB
which improved the operation temporarily. Replacement of this
latter follow up head is considered urgent.

TARGET BEARING TRANSMITTER: The forward TBT buzzer switch is
defective and requires readjustment after every dive. The diaphragm
acquires a different set whenever subjected to pressure, making
permanent adjustment impossible. It is strongly urged that a com-
plete new watertight buzzer unit be installed.

L. RADIO
Last Serial of CTF 72 received - No. 12.
First Serial of CTF 71 received - No. 61.
Last serial of CTF 71 received - No. 4

Had difficulty raising VIXO to transmit RATON'S Serial No. 4
(111205) on January 12, 1944. NPM answered up and we delivered it
through that station.
No material defects.

M. RADAR
SD RADAR: Upon departure from MILNE BAY (December 11, 1943),
the SD radar was not as reliable as usual. It had been thoroughly
checked, tested and pronounced in good operating condition by the
Tender personnel. On December 18, 1943 the antenna showed a zero
ground. Inspection showed that the antenna trunk had salt water in
it. The ship's force was unable to locate the leak, although it
was suspected to be in the top of the antenna assembly. Upon
surfacing, after an all day dive, on December 21, 1943, the entire
antenna assembly was found to have carried away. Later that night
it was found on deck, aft of conning tower, and recovered. It had
sheared off in the porcelain insulator part at top of mast. A"
steel plate was bolted on the top of the mast and the plug in
insulator retaining ring at bottom of mast was installed, making
mast water-tight. This casualty to SD antenna also made useless
our RC equipment during the patrol.

[STAMP: 3-4]
ENCLOSURE (A) -25- [HANDWRITTEN: (1894)]

— page 63 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

December 19, 1943: The convertor unit on SJ radar intermittently
shifting became critical. Running continued to be critical.
Discovered broken heater circuit winding in replacement convertor. Re-
wound heater. SJ performed satisfactorily thereafter.
Except for above the SJ radar performed excellently during the en-
tire patrol, although it was necessary to renew tubes periodically.

N.
SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS:
Sound gear in good condition, with the exception that the cables
to both heads should be renewed when drydocked. Sound conditions fair to
good - nothing exceptional.

O.
DENSITY LAYERS:
CORAL SEA - December 13, 1943 - from 110ft to 200ft a drop of 4°F
(83°F to 79°F) then constant down to 300ft.
BANDA SEA - December 20, 1943 - Lat 6°-10'S; Long 126°-21'E. a from
130ft to 165ft. an abrupt drop of 5°F(83°F to 78°F) then a 2°
(78°F to 76°F) drop from 165ft to 250ft.
SOUTH OF SULU ARCHIPELAGO - December 26, 1943 - Lat 5°-07'N; Long.
125°-35'E. - an abrupt drop of 4°F(82°F to 78°F) at 210ft.
CELEBES SEA - Off south coast of MINDANAO - December 27, 1943 -
Lat. 5°-50'N; Long. 124°-30'E. - a 2°F drop between 100-110ft.,
then no change until 210ft, when there was a drop of 4°F from 210ft
to 250ft.
December 28, 1943: Lat. 4°-32'N; Long. 126°-19'E. Layer beginning
at 140ft and down to 240ft. there was a drop of 6°F.
December 29, 1943: Lat. 3°N; Long. 127°E. Layer from 180ft to 225ft.-
4°F negative gradiant.
December 30, 1943: Off entrance of MOROTAI STRAIT. Layer from 200
to 240ft. - 4°F negative gradiant.
January 2, 1944: Lat. 5°-05'N; Long. 128 E. - 4°F gradual drop from
100ft down to 240ft.
January 5, 1944: Eight (8) miles east of CAPE SAN AGUSTIN (MINDANAO).
A 4°F drop starting at 180ft to 250ft.
January 6, 1944: West of SANGI ISLANDS. A 5°F drop starting at 150ft
to 180ft.
January 12, 1944: MOLUKKA PASSAGE. A 4°F drop from 160ft to 220ft.

P.
HEALTH, FOOD, and HABITABILITY.
Generally good. Number of sick days - 1. Minor number
of constipation cases.

Q.
PERSONNEL
The conduct and performance of duty of all hands were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy. No Commanding
Officer could ask for a finer crew of submariners.
Except for the 5 days in MILNE BAY (short refit and prac-
tically nil recreation for officers and men), this vessel has been
on the go since November 13, 1943 - a period of 73 days.
The officers and crew of the RATON are about due for some
much needed rest and recreation.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-26-

— page 65 —
FC5-16/A16-3
Serial 073
SUBMARINE SQUADRON SIXTEEN
U.S.S. RASHER, Flagship
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
1 February 1944.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO RATON conf. report
of RATON 2nd War Patrol
of 25 January 1944.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RATON - Report of 2nd War Patrol -
Comment on.

1. The second war patrol of U.S.S. RATON was con-
ducted in MINDANAO - CELEBES - HALMAHERA Area during the
period 11 December 1943 to 25 January 1944. The period 20
December 1943 to 18 January 1944 was spent north of the
Equator. The period 11 December 1943 to 19 December 1943
was spent enroute MILNE BAY, PAPUA to DARWIN, AUSTRALIA.

2. In this very aggressive and well conducted
patrol three attacks were made on escorted convoys. The
first attack on a four ship convoy with two escorts was
brilliantly executed. It was well planned to make use of
both bow and stern tubes. The attack was conducted on the
surface at night and full use was made of the poor weather
conditions in evading the escorts.
The second attack on three loaded AO's escorted
by a destroyer was made after the RATON had been forced down
by escorts at the focal point where two different convoys
had met. The RATON wisely chose the loaded tankers and after
eighteen hours of tracking and chasing succeeded in obtain-
ing three hits in one of the tankers.
Attack number three probably missed due to
target maneuvers. The determination of the Commanding Off-
icer in tracking and trailing targets when a suitable firing
position could not be obtained is especially gratifying.

3. The material condition of the RATON was
excellent and the work will be accomplished during a
normal refit.

4. The health and morale of the crew was excellent.
The RATON was above average in cleanliness.

- 1 -
[STAMP: 2 C1894]

— page 67 —
[HANDWRITTEN: Extra Copy]
FE24-71/A16-3                               UNITED STATES NAVY                               12/gms
Serial: 0116                                                                                 February 11, 1944.
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L                                                                      [STAMP: 345]
                                                                                             [STAMP: 2 01894]
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS RATON Conf. Ltr. A16-3
Serial 073 dated 1
February, 1944. 2nd War
Patrol.

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

Subject:          U.S.S.RATON - Report of 2nd War Patrol -
                  Comment on.

                  1. The remarks of the Commander Submarine Squadron
SIXTEEN are complete and are concurred in.

                  2. The night surface attack on the four ship convoy
was expertly executed and subsequent evasion on the surface
prevented counter measures by the escort vessels.

                  3. This patrol is considered successful for purpose
of awarding the Submarine Combat Insignia.

                  4. The Force Commander congratulates the Commanding
Officer, Officers and Crew on a well conducted, aggressive
patrol, during which the following damage was inflicted on the
enemy:

                  SUNK
                  1 - AO (NIPPON MARU CLASS) - - - 9,974 Tons
                  1 - AP-AK (UNIDENTIFIED) - - - 8,000 "

                  Total 17,974 Tons

                  DAMAGED
                  1 - PROBABLE XAV (HEIWA MARU) - - 6,000 Tons

                  Grand Total 23,974 Tons

DISTRIBUTION:                                 R. W. CHRISTIE.
(See Second Page).
                                              - 1 -
                                                                                             [STAMP: 2 01894]

— page 68 —
FE24-71/A16-3
Serial: 0116
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S.RATON - Report of 2nd War Patrol -
         Comment on.

D I S T R I B U T I O N:
Cominch                                [HANDWRITTEN: ✓](3) - Direct
Vice Opnav                             (2) - Direct
Vice Opnav                             (1)
Op-23C                                 (1)
ComlstFlt                              (1)
Com2ndFlt                              (1)
Com3rdFlt                              (1)
Com7thFlt                              (2)
Comsubsls                              (2)
Comsubs2ndFlt                          (1)
CTF-71                                 (4)
CTF-72                                 (2)
CSS-16                                 (1)
Divcoms Ron-16                         (1)
Each S/M W.A.                          (1) - NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SEA - BURN

[SIGNATURE: P. F. Straub Jr.]
P. F. STRAUB, Jr.,
Flag Secretary.

- 2 -
UNITED STATES NAVY
12/gms
February 11, 1944.

— page 69 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 2-01894]
                                                                [STAMP: Reg. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 2847]
                                                                        R.S. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 018171]
                                                                                 [HANDWRITTEN: 844]]
A16-3/ (F-6/cw)

Serial: 0867                                                    18 APR 1944

                                UNITED STATES FLEET
                                COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to:
CO USS RATON Conf.Ltr.
Serial 02-44 dated
25 January 1944.

From:           The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.
To :            The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.

Subject:        USS RATON - Report of Second War Patrol.

1.              Forwarded.

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

— page 70 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

SS270/A16-3
Serial 06
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]I-A-L

U.S.S. RATON (SS270)
Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

14 April 1944

From: The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. RATON (SS270).
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. RATON, Report of War Patrol Number THREE (3).

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart of U.S.S. RATON during subject
War Patrol.

1. Enclosures (A) and (B), covering the THIRD (3rd)
War Patrol of this vessel conducted in the JAVA SEA, KARIMATA
STRAIT and SOUTH CHINA SEA Areas during the period February 18,
1944 to April 14, 1944, is forwarded herewith.

1s/ [SIGNATURE: J.J. DAVIS]

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: Filmed]
[HANDWRITTEN: 73067]

— page 71 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON Report of THIRD War Patrol.

A. PROLOGUE

Returned to Fremantle, W.A., from 2nd War Patrol on January 25,
1944. Moored alongside U.S.S. ORION for refit. During refit, completely
overhauled Nos. 3 & 4 main engines, removed degaussing equipment and cables,
dry docked, cut down bridge superstructure and removed No. 4 head. Refit
completed February 8, 1944. On February 10, 1944 commenced training period.
Fired 3 exercise torpedoes and made deep dive. Training period completed
February 14, 1944. Alongside U.S.S. ORION loading until departure.

B. NARRATIVE

February 18, 1944 (1st)

1305 (H) Underway in accordance with CTG 71.1 Operation Order 22-44, dated
February 16, 1944 for war patrol in JAVA SEA (SURABAYA Approaches),
KARIMATA STRAIT, and SOUTH CHINA SEA.

1500 (H) In Submarine Exercise Area "A", conducting training approaches
on HMAS DUBBO.

2300 (H) Completed training approaches, released HMAS DUBBO, and set course
for EXMOUTH GULF via bombing restriction lane.

February 19, 1944 (2nd)

Enroute EXMOUTH GULF. During day made deep dive and 2 training dives.

February 20, 1944 (3rd)

Enroute EXMOUTH GULF. During day made 5 dives for training. Made 4
Battle Surfaces and held drills and fire control problem. On last Battle
Surface fired 10 rounds 4"/50 cal. target, 120 rounds 20 MM, and 200
rounds .30 cal.

February 21, 1944 (4th)

0700 (H) Sighted Northeast Cape. Standing into EXMOUTH GULF, various courses
and speeds, via swept channel.

0750 (H) Sighted Kingfisher type of plane (Plane Contact #1). Exchanged
recognition signals.

1015 (H) Moored alongside oil barge, EXMOUTH GULF, and commenced fueling.
During entry into the Gulf, no buoys (marking swept channel) were
sighted. Reported this fact to C.O. Section Base, Exmouth.
Received 14,500 gallons of diesel oil.

1615 (H) Underway standing out of EXMOUTH GULF, via swept channel.

1835 (H) Cleared EXMOUTH GULF and set course for LOMBOK STRAIT. Made trim dive.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-1-

— page 72 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON Report of THIRD War Patrol.

February 22, 1944 (5th)
Enroute LOMBOK STRAIT. During day made 3 section dives and held
fire control problem.

February 23, 1944 (6th)
Enroute LOMBOK STRAIT.
1245 (H) Sighted unidentified two motor mono-plane (Plane Contact #2),
bearing 075°T, distant about 5 miles, on SE course, low over
water. Dove to 200 ft., when plane changed course toward us.
Lat. 12°-55'S; Long. 115°- 18'E.
Held fire control problem.
1507 (H) Surfaced.
1740 (H) Made training dive.
1758 (H) Surfaced.

February 24, 1944 (7th)
Enroute LOMBOK STRAIT.
0602 (H) Submerged 45 miles south of LOMBOK STRAIT. Held fire control
problem during day.
1907 (H) Surfaced. Standing up toward LOMBOK STRAIT.
2118 (H) Commenced passage of LOMBOK STRAIT. Went ahead full on 4 main
engines.
2400 (H) Completed passage. Slowed to 15 knots on 2 main engines.
Numerous intermittent lights observed on NUSAR BESAR, LOMBOK
ISLAND, and southeastern side of BALI ISLAND. No contacts.
Strong southerly setting current in Strait (3-4 knots).

February 25, 1944 (8th)
Patrolling in FLORES SEA, North of BALI ISLAND.
0557 (H) Submerged. During night frequent heavy rain squalls. Visibility
very poor.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-2-

— page 73 —
C-Q-N-F-I-D-Z-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON Report of THIRD War Patrol.
February 25, 1944 (8th) (Cont.)
1515 (H) Sighted submarine (Ship Contact #1), bearing 300°T, range about
2,000 yards, Own course 290°T. Not heard on sound. Came in
sight just as a heavy rain squall was lifting. Went to battle
stations but soon broke off, as submarine was identified as
U.S. by silhouette. It was on course about 3000T. Believed to
be RASHER. Lat. 70-43'S; Long. 1150-04'E.
1540 (H) Surfaced and made contact with RASHER via T.B.L. Closed
RASHER, exchanged information, and laid plans for search.
Tuned SJ radar, as we had renewed convertor. On all voice
communications used skipper's first names as calls and minimum
power output on sets,
1630 (H) Commenced search.
1731 (H) Sighted mast of ships: (Ship contact #2) bearing 025T, distant
about 13 miles. RASHER barely in sight 5-6 miles northeast of
us, Commenced tracking and working ahead for night attack,
Convoy consisted of two liarus (one large and one medium), and
one or two escorts. Base course 135°T, speed 7.5-8 knots.
Lat. 7-37'S; Long. 114°-52'E.
1845 (H) Radar Contact on targets - 18,000 yards.
1915 (H) Heard someone testing in English on TBL. Did not answer.
1955(H) RASHER reported she was "going in" for attack. Remained ahead
of targets.
2005 (H) Heard 4 explosions - 3 sounded like torpedoes and 1 depth
charge. One target (largest "pip") disappeared on radar screen
shortly thereafter. Temporarily lost radar contact. Regained
contact at 12,000 yards -- one "pip". Later picked up second
"pip" at 9,500 yards. Working ahead for attack. Targets mak-
ing radical changes of courses and speeds working to south.
2100 (H) Ready to go in, but not sure of RASHER'S position. Exchanged in-
formation with RASHER on TBL. Laughon reports one Liaru sunk.
Said he was in better position than we were, so told him to go
on in. Remained ahead and clear. Target had steadied on basc
course 160 9. Speed 7 knots.
2131 (H) Sighted two bright orange flashes, bearing 305°T, followed by
3 explosions - sounded like torpedo hits. About 10 minutes
later hoars loud rumbling noise - Haru probably sinking. It
had disappeared from radar screen. Also heard 4 depth charges
during noxt 15 minutes.
ENCLOSURE (A)
-3-

— page 74 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

February 25, 1944 (8th) (Cont.)

2145 (H) Talked with Laugthon on TBL. He reported both Marus sank. Signed
off with him and cleared area to northwest to make passage into
JAVA SEA north of GOAGOA ISLAND.

2202 (H) Radar contact (Ship contact No.3), range 6,500 yards - small "pip".
Bearing 170°T. Also strong radar interference on SJ, same bearing.
Probably RASHER. Opened out to north and lost contact.
Lat. 7°-48'S; Long. 115°-17'E.

2230 (H) Set course for GOAGOA ISLAND. Continued to receive strong radar
interference on SJ screen from South. Also intermittent contact
on radar screen bearing 225 T - 235°T, range 6-7,000 yards.

2257 (H) Heard someone talking on TBL, testing in English. Then RASHER
asked what was his signal strength. Answered up and gave it to her.

2300 (H) Someone using RASHER'S call, calling us on TBL. "What is your
course and speed?" Did not answer up. Doubtful if it was RASHER.
Very gruff voice, not heard before. For next 15 minutes, he con-
tinued to call asking for our course and speed. Then he com-
menced "pleading" for us to answer up, I suspected "Jap skull-
duggery".

2315 (H) Intermittent radar contact bearing 270°T, range 7,400 yards. Also,
strong interference on SJ screen bearing 180°T - 200°T. (Probably
RASHER) Decided at this time that the RASHER'S attacks would
have stirred up A/S activities in the SURABAYA area. Abandoned
plan to pass north of GOAGOA ISLAND and set course to pass east
and north of KANGEAN ISLANDS into JAVA SEA.

February 26, 1944 (9th)

Enroute JAVA SEA, via east and north of KANGEAN ISLANDS.

0233 (H) Sighted powerful searchlight, below horizon, bearing 250°T.
(In direction of RASHER'S attacks) Appeared to be searching on
water - all around sweeps. For next hour and a half the searchlight
sweeps were repeated every 10-15 minutes. Last observed at 0400 (H).
At one time it appeared to be closing us.

0505 (H) SJ radar interference faded out on screen. Last bearing to SW.

0545 (H) Submerged NE of SEKELLA ISLAND. Decided to remain submerged during
morning and then surface and head west.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-4-

— page 75 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

February 26, 1944 (9th) (Cont.)

0915 (H) Sighted submarine (U.S.) (Ship Contact #4), bearing 157°T, distant
     about 4 miles, on northerly course. Had silhouette of U.S. Sub.
     Believed to be RASHER. Did not endeavor to contact.
     Lat. 6°-27'S; Long. 116°-23'E.

0940 (H) Submarine out of sight to NE.

1325 (H) Surfaced. Heading west.

1342 (H) Sighted plane (Plane contact No. 3), bearing 038°T, distant about
     8 miles. SD radar contact same time. Dove to 200 ft. Was ob-
     served to make course in our direction, as we dove. "ZERO"
     type float plane. Lat. 6°-23'S; Long. 116°-08'E.

1457 (H) Periscope depth all clear.

1623 (H) Surfaced. Heading west.

2011 (H) Sighted what appeared to be smoke on the horizon, bearing 075°T.
     Changed course to 075°T to investigate.

2039 (H) Smoke determined to be a low surface cloud. Resumed course to
     westward.

February 27, 1944 (10th)

Heading west into JAVA SEA to patrol off BAWEAN ISLAND.

0330 (H) Patrolling south of LASALIMBO ISLAND on E - W courses.

0543 (H) Sighted what appeared to be a destroyer bearing 100°T, zero
     angle on bow. Turned away, dove to 65 ft., made ready stern tubes.
     Radar range as we were diving, 3,200 yards. Depth of water 27
     fathoms. Lat. 5°-37'S; Long. 114°-30'E.

0600 (H) Destroyer turned out to be a sailboat. At the time of sighting,
     it was beginning to get light, and the morning surface haze made
     it very deceptive. Radar range of 3,200 yards made me suspicious.
     However, it certainly was a perfect silhouette of a destroyer
     bows-on, in the morning twilight. Continued patrol submerged.
     Glassy calm sea.
     During remainder of day had 1 to 3 sailboats in sight. One sail-
     boat had its sails down, lying to. Did not close to investigate as we
     did not want our presence in JAVA SEA disclosed prematurely. Frequent
     rain squalls during day. Visibility poor.

1908 (H) Surfaced. Sail boat barely visible to south of us, distant a-
     bout 5 miles. Opened out to north then set course to patrol east
     of BAWEAN ISLAND.

ENCLOSURE (A).
                                                                 -5-

— page 76 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

February 28, 1944 (11th)

Patrolling on E-W line, east of BAWEAN ISLAND. Numerous heavy rain
squalls during night. Visibility very poor.

0546 (H) Submerged.

1916 (H) Surfaced. Patrolling east of BAWEAN ISLAND until midnight.

February 29, 1944 (12th)

0000 (H) Set course to patrol south and west of BAWEAN ISLAND.

0350 (H) Sighted small boat (probably patrol craft) dead ahead, bearing
250°T, radar range 4,700 yards, on N-W course. Went ahead on
4 engines and worked ahead of it.

0553 (H) Submerged about 10 miles south of BAWEAN ISLAND. Patrolling on
westerly course.

0612 (H) Numerous fishing sail boats in sight. During day as many as 20
in sight at one time. All of them appeared to be native fish-
ing boats.

0820 (H) Set course for KARIMATA STRAIT.

1914 (H) Surfaced.

March 1, 1944 (13th)

Enroute KARIMATA STRAIT.

0617 (H) Submerged off south east entrance of KARIMATA STRAIT.

1820 (H) Surfaced and commenced transit of KARIMATA STRAIT.

March 2, 1944 (14th)

Making passage through KARIMATA STRAIT.

0545 (H) Completed passage of KARIMATA STRAIT, without incident. Passed
7 miles south of SERUTU ISLAND.

0623 (H) Submerged SW of SERUTU ISLAND. Heading North for new area.

1624 (H) Surfaced.

2230 (H) Crossed equator at Long. 107°-55'E, heading north.

-6-
ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 77 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

                                                                March 3, 1944 (15th)

Enroute new area off CAPE PADARAN.

0000 (H) Sighted 3 small sailboats, bearing 210°T, distant 2-3 miles.
             Unable to pickup on radar. Avoided. Sailboats about 12 miles
             west of DIRECTION ISLAND, on easterly course.
0637 (H) Submerged.
0715 (H) Surfaced. Set course to pass between SOUTH NATCENA AND GREAT
             NATCENA ISLANDS.
1440 (H) Sighted GREAT NATCENA ISLAND, bearing 343°T, distant about 30
             miles. Visibility very poor. Set course to intercept convoy
             reported by RAY.

                                                                March 4, 1944 (16th)

0100 (H) Increased speed to 17 knots and commenced search curve to west-
             ward to contact RAY convoy.
0125 (H) No further word on RAY convoy. Called RAY, PUFFER, and
             BLUEFISH on TBL to find out if any further dope on convoy.
             No replies at first.
0145 (H) PUFFER answered up. Exchanged information. Estimated PUFFER
             to be about 35 miles NE of us. While talking with SELBY
             (PUFFER), the RASHER came in on circuit. Doubted at first if
             it was RASHER, as its area was about 1,000 miles East Southeast
             of us. Had LAUGHON authenticate his transmission. Satisfied
             it was RASHER.
0225 (H) Signed off with PUFFER and RASHER. Continued search to westward.
0625 (H) Submerged.
0640 (H) Heard an explosion - sounded like torpedo explosion very far
             away. Appeared to be W-NW of us. Later found out it was
             BLUEFISH.
0641 (H) First of about 26 depth charges from same general direction.
0705 (H) Last of depth charges.
0720 (H) Surfaced and headed for apparent origin of explosions - 15 knots,
             course 285°T.
0732 (H) Nothing sighted. Set course for RIFLEMAN BANKS.

ENCLOSURE (A).
                                                                -7-

— page 78 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of First War Patrol.

March 4, 1944 (16th) (Cont.)
high
1045 (H) Sighted through periscope what appeared to be conning tower of
    submarine or small patrol craft. (Ship Contact No. 5) Bearing
    353°T, distant about 10 miles on westerly course. May be BLUEFISH.
    Appeared to turn away and was soon out of sight. Lat. 5°-15N;
    Long. 108°-46'E. Continued NE for new area.

March 5, 1944 (17th)

0619 (H) Submerged.

0645 (H) Surfaced. Patrolling SE of RIFLEMAN BANK, E-W course.

1542 (H) Sighted ship through high periscope bearing 245°T, distant about
    10-15 miles. (Ship Contact No. 6) Lat. 7°-28'N; Long. 111°-45'E.

1600 (H) Submerged. Set course to close.

1630 (H) Identified ship as U.S. submarine. Attempted to communicate by
    sound.

1707 (H) Fired two proper recognition flares. Probably duds.

1710 (H) Surfaced with stern to submarine, range 6,000 yards. Submarine
    immediately submerged. Tried communication by sound. No results.

1730 (H) Circled to show our silhouette.

1745 (H) Submarine fired two proper recognition flares and surfaced.
    Identified as BLUEFISH. Closed and made plans for joint search
    for tonight.

1830 (H) While testing voice communication with BLUEFISH, the PUFFER came
    in on circuit, strength 2. Exchanged information with SELBY.
    Estimate PUFFER about 200 miles southwest of us.

1845 (H) Signed off with PUFFER and BLUEFISH. Commenced search.

March 6, 1944 (18th)

Patrolling east of RIFLEMAN BANK.

0410 (H) Heard someone talking on TBL. Not very clear. Only able to re-
    ceive the following: "---- FROM NEWSBOY ---- LET ME KNOW AT 1600
    TODAY YOUR PROGRESS ON CONVOY". Not the PUFFER or BLUEFISH.
    There was more conversation, but unable to understand it. Did
    not break in on circuit.

-8-
ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 79 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

                                        March 6, 1944 (18th) (Cont.)

0613 (H) Submerged.

0647 (H) Surfaced.

1200 (H) Discontinued search. Set course to pass between WEST REEF and
         SPRATLY ISLAND, to patrol off CAPE PADARAN. Notified BLUEFISH
         by voice that we were heading for new patrol station. SELBY
         (PUFFER) asked by voice information on our route North from Base,
         as he contemplated returning via that route. Gave him infor-
         mation.

1445 (H) Sighted object bearing 345°T, distant about 11 miles. Closed
         to investigate.

1600 (H) Object determined to be an old partially submerged wreck on
         LONDON REEFS. Close to, and east of, wreck there was a medium
         sized yellow pontoon buoy. Lat. 8°-48'N; Long. 112°-16'E. Set
         course to clear reefs and head for CAPE PADARAN.

1630 (H) PUFFER called on voice and asked if we were in his area, as he
         had a submarine in sight. We replied negative.

1715 (H) PUFFER reported that submarine previously reported was RAY.
         Further stated that RAY was low on fuel and would not return to
         its assigned areas.

                                        March 7, 1944 (19th)

         Enroute to patroll off CAPE PADARAN.

0620 (H) submerged.

0645 (H) Surfaced.

1808' (H) Sighted CAPE PADARAN, bearing 298°T, distant about 30 miles.
         Patrolled during night on line 080°T-260°T from CAPE PADARAN,
         5 to 20 miles off shore.

                                        March 8, 1944 (20th)

         Patrolling off CAPE PADARAN.

0621 (H) Submerged. Patrolled during day 5-10 miles off shore. During
         day sighted numerous sampans. All were fishing. Came
         out 15-20 miles from shore. Shortly after noon they returned
         to beach. Two (2) fishing stakes, bearing 070°T from CAPE
         PADARAN, 15 miles. One sampan was observed to come out to
         these stakes and pull in lines, then return to beach, leaving
         stakes - probably fish nets.

1940 (H) Surfaced.
                                        -9-

— page 80 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

March 9, 1944 (21st)

Patrolling off CAPE PADARAN - 5 to 15 miles off shore. Full moon.
flat sea.

0624 (H) Submerged. Several sail boats sighted during day - 5 to 20 miles
off shore. Were JUNK type (3 masts and sails, crew of about
5 men).

1620 (H) Sound picked up pinging bearing 305°T. Sighted smoke bearing
306°T, in vicinity of FANRANG BAY, distant about 12 miles.
Changed course to 306°T, to close smoke. No ships sighted.
Background of land and haze make visibility very poor. (Ship
Contact No. 7). Lat. 11°30'N; Long. 109°05'E. Pinging from
two sources on same general bearing.

1624 (H) Sighted float type plane (Plane Contact No. 4) patrolling over
source of smoke and pinging. "Zero" type float plane. Bear-
ing of smoke and pinging indicates ships were on southerly course.
Changed course for CAPE PADARAN to intercept.

1645 (H) Smoke no longer in sight. Still hear pinging. Plane still in
sight.

1654 (H) One bomb, not close, no damage. Went to 150ft. Had just lowered
periscope. One plane was in sight over land, distant 10 to 15
miles. No ships or patrol craft were in sight at the time.
Believed to be a second plane, which we had not picked up.
Bomb was a small one.

1712 (H) Periscope depth. Nothing in sight. Pinging now intermittent
and fading.

1720 (H) Pinging faded out on bearing just south of CAPE PADARAN. Ap-
parently ships rounded the cape very close and disappeared to
the west, hugging coast line, in 5-10 fathoms of water.

1906 (H) Surfaced. Headed South.

2350 (H) Sighted POULO CECIR DE MER, distant about 20 miles.

March 10, 1944 (22nd).

0100 (H) Lying to 4-5 miles north of CECIR DE MER, tuning SJ radar.

0200 (H) Tuning completed. Changed course to 075 T to patrol off shore
traffic lanes -Empire-Singapore route.

0627 (H) Submerged.

0650 (H) Surfaced. Wind and sea had increased to force 4.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-10-

— page 81 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. R.TON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

                                        March 11, 1944 (23rd)

Patrolling Empire - Singapore route.

0625 (H) Submerged.

0659 (H) Surfaced.

1650 (H) Set course for Lat. 15°N; Long. 115°E. to intercept LAPON
         contact of Jap Task Force (2 BB;1 CA, 1 CU and DDs). Position
         of LAPON's contact doubtful - probably encoding error.
         Estimate enemy force will take same route to Singapore that
         previous men-of-war contacts have taken.

                                        March 12, 1944 (24th)

Patrolling Empire - Singapore route searching for LAPON contact.
Speed 10 knots.

0617 (H) Submerged.

0645 (H) Surfaced.

2000 (H) No contact. Changed course to 250°T and increased speed to
         15 knots. Enroute to patrol off CAPE VARELLA.

                                        March 13, 1944 (25th)

Enroute CAPE VARELLA.

0615 (H) Submerged.

0657 (H) Surfaced. Wind and sea had abated.

                                        March 14, 1944 (26th)

0608 (H) Submerged. Patrolling off CAPE VARELLA. 7-8 miles off shore.
         During day sighted numerous sailboats in vicinity of CAPE.

1647 (H) Sighted "Zoro" type float plane (Plane Contact No. 5), on
         northerly course, over land at CAPE VARELLA, distant about
         8 miles. While watching plane, it turned toward us. Could
         not locate it a few minutes later. Lat. 12°-47'N; Long. 109°-29'E

1945 (H) Surfaced. During night patrolled to NE of CAPE VARELLA, 7-8
         miles off shore, speed 5 knots.

ENCLOSURE (A).                                  -11-

— page 82 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

March 15, 1944 (27th).

Patrolling off CAPE VARELLA.

0403 (H) Sighted trawler type patrol vessel (Ship Contact No. 8), bear-
     ing 340°T, range 5,000 yards, on southerly course, speed 9 knots.
     Turned away at full speed and worked around to north of him.
     Lat. 13°-14'N; Long. 109°-38'E.

0612 (H) Submerged. Patrolling North of CAPE VARELLA, 5-15 miles off
     shore. During day sighted numerous sail boats. As many as
     20 at one time. Were surrounded by them.

1503 (H) Sighted masts of ships (Ship Contact No. 9) off entrance of
     XUANDAI BAY, distant 10-12 miles. Estimated course 340°T.
     Convoy was very doseto coast. It continued northward hugging
     coast. Unable to gain attack position, so set course for
     PALAU GAMPIR ISLAND, to intercept them when they had to move
     eastward. However, with a 2-3 knot current to buck, soon re-
     alized they would get by. At no time did they present an
     angle on bow less than 80°S, and the closest range obtained
     was 8,000 yards. Best estimate of Convoy: 6 LCs (3 large
     and 3 medium), 1 large AP (2 stacks and considerable super-
     structure), 2 large AKs, and 4 escorts (1 PG and 3 SCs).
     At one time thought they might be going into XUANDAI BAY, but
     they continued on North and rounded PULAU GAMPIR. Two escorts
     ahead, one on starboard beam, and one astern. Formation very
     ragged, and appeared to be more of a column than anything else.

1615 (H) Set course to NE to open out form coast (10 miles) and to get
     clear of 3 sail boats close by, preparatory to surfacing.

1643 (H) Convoy out of sight, bearing 335°T. They appeared to have
     settled down on course 020°T, speed 10-12 knots.

1700 (H) Pinging faded out on bearing 345°T.

1829 (H) Surfaced with low battery. Went ahead full on 2 ME's, to
     intercept convoy, assuming their course to be 020°T, speed
     10-12 knots.

1854 (H) Sighted 2 P.C. boats, (Ship Contact No. 10) bearing 345°T,
     on southerly course, distant about 8 miles. Lat. 13°-40'N;
     Long. 109°-32'E. Worked around them and continued north.
     These may have been with convoy, but were not sighted previously.

1915 (H) Went ahead full on 3 ME's.

2040 (H) Went ahead full on 4 ME's.

-12-
ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 83 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

March 15, 1944 (27th) (Cont.)

2300 (H) No contact. Set course for CAPE BATANGAN to intercept convoy
     at daylight. Stopping every half-hour to listen on sound for
     pinging.

March 16, 1944 (28th)

Continued search for convoy, going ahead full on 4 ME's.

0034 (H) Sighted sail boat, bearing 035°T, close aboard. Radar range
     1,300 yards. Avoided on surface.

0240 (H) Six (6) miles SE of CAPE BATANGAN. Changed course to pass 5
     miles east of KULAO RAI ISLAND.

0400 (H) Changed course to 000°T.

0600 (H) Slowed to 15 knots on 2 ME's.

0630 (H) Changed course to head for Lat. 17°N, Long. 110°E, focal point
     for previous convoys.

0631 (H) Submerged.

0654 (H) Surfaced. Went ahead 15 knots on 2 ME's.

1208 (H) Patrolling on E-W line at Lat. 17°N.

1357 (H) Plane contact on SD radar, 11 miles. (Plane Contact No. 6).
     Lat. 17°N; Long. 110°-20'E. Plane not sighted. Submerged to
     100ft.

1415 (H) Periscope depth. All clear.

1438 (H) Surfaced.

1800 (H) Set course to return to patrol area off CAPE VARELLA. Speed
     10 knots.

Believe now that convoy broke away from coast north of PULO KALBIR,
night of 15th, and headed east.

March 17, 1944 (29th)

Enroute to patrol station off CAPE VARELLA.

0650 (H) Sighted first of numerous sailboats. Avoided on surface.

-13-

ENCSUR (A).

— page 84 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

March 17, 1944 (29th) (Cont.)

0733 (H) Submerged and set course to southwest for Indo China Coast.
     Decided it was useless to try to remain undetected from the
     numerous sail boats. Some of them had their sails down, lying
     to and fishing.

1141 (H) Made battle surface and went alongside one of the sail boats
     (Junk type), lying to with nets out. Four (4) men and one boy
     were in boat - all Chinese. It was an old dilapidated affair.
     Unable to make ourselves understood and visa versa. Satisfied
     they were harmless natives. Showed them a U.S. flag, but that
     didn't seem to make any difference. As we came alongside they
     all fell to their knees, and started bowing furiously, with
     their hands clasped together - five (5) very frightened natives.
     No signs of radio or any other mechanical apparatus on board.
     Tried to make them understand that we were not going to harm
     them, but don't think they were convinced even when we shoved
     off. Boat had a fish painted on each bow and the Nos. 774147N
     painted on stern.

1200 (H) Headed north.

1210 (H) Submerged and then resumed course to southwest.

1920 (H) Surfaced.

1943 (H) Sighted numerous white lights, along shoreline, distant 7 miles,
     in vicinity of CAPE SA HOI.

March 18, 1944 (30th)

     Patrolling off Indo-China coast, 8-10 miles off shore. During
night sighted several sail boats and small craft. None appeared to be
power driven. Avoided on surface.

0616 (H) Submerged. Patrolled off PULAU GAMBIR ISLAND during day.
     Numerous sail boats in sight.

1932 (H) Surfaced. Opened out to NE of PULAU GAMBIR, about 15 miles.

2005 (H) Lying to - conserving fuel.

2225 (H) Went ahead 15 knots to patrol southeastern part of area in
     vicinity SPRATLY ISLAND - RIFLEMAN BANK.

-14-

ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 85 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

March 19, 1944 (31st)
Enroute southeastern part of areas.

0619 (H) Submerged.
0650 (H) Surfaced.
2025 (H) Called BLUEFISH once on voice (TBL) to inform her we would enter
        her area. No reply.

March 20, 1944 (32nd).
Patrolling vicinity LADD REEF, SPRATLY ISLAND and RIFLEMAN BANK.

0150 (H) Tried again to raise BLUEFISH on voice (TBL) No reply. Called
        once.
0610 (H) Submerged.
0805 (H) Surfaced. Went ahead full on 2 ME's, heading south to patrol
        west of RIFLEMAN BANK.
1037 (H) Submerged.
1916 (H) Surfaced. Set course to return to area.

March 21, 1944 (33rd)
Patrolling off Indo-China Coast.

0624 (H) Submerged.
0649 (H) Surfaced.
2125 (H) Strong radar interference on SJ radar screen, bearing 340°T.
        "Pip" and pulse same height as own.
2130 (H) Radar contact, bearing 335°T, range 7,400 yards. Believed to
        be HADDO. Ship Contact No. 11). Lat. 11°-57'N; Long. 110°-37'E.
2135 (H) Called HADDO on voice (TBL) and verified that our radar contact
        was on her. Made plans for joint search tonight.

-15-
ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 86 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject:	U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

March 22, 1944 (34th).
Patrolling off Indo-China Coast.
0612 (H) Submerged.
0632 (H) Surfaced.
1108 (H) Sighted submarine (Ship Contact No. 12) through high periscope.
Believed to be HADDO. Closed range and verified identification.
Went close aboard and exchanged information via megaphone. Con-
tinued patrol. Lat. 12°-57'N; Long. 112°-11'E.

2130 (H) Cleared RATON Serial No. 1 (221200) to VIXO reporting our
planned return route to Base.

March 23, 1944 (35th)
Patrolling off Indo-China Coast.
0608 (H) Submerged.
0635 (H) Surfaced.
1015 (H) Passed through oil slick, garbage, and trash. Lat. 14°N;
Long. 113°-24'E.

March 24, 1944 (36th).
Patrolling off Indo-China Coast.
0615 (H) Submerged.
0642 (H) Surfaced.

March 25, 1944 (37th).
Patrolling off PULO KA BIR, Indo-China Coast.
0614 (H) Submerged.
1935 (H) Surfaced.
2000 (H) Lying to, SE of PULO KAMBIR.

-16-
ENCLOSURE (4).

— page 87 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

March 26, 1944 (38th)

Patrolling off CAPE VARELLA - PULO KALBIR.
0200 (H) Went ahead 5 knots to patrol off CAPE VARELLA.
0613 (H) Submerged.
1935 (H) Surfaced. Headed north to patrol off PULO KALBIR.

March 27, 1944 (39th)

Patrolling off PULO KALBIR.
0300 (H) With enough fuel remaining to get to DARWIN or EXMOUTH
(Plus safe margin), set course to eastern part of area,
speed 5 knots.
0622 (H) Submerged.
1905 (H) Surfaced.
2200 (H) Went ahead 10 knots and set course to intercept BINGO contact.

March 28, 1944 (40th)

Searching for BINGO contact.
0607 (H) Submerged.
0637 (H) Surfaced.
1400 (H) Went ahead 15 knots.

March 29, 1944 (41st).

Searching for BINGO contact.
0552 (H) Submerged.
0621 (H) Surfaced. Speed 10 knots.
1900 (H) Discontinued search for BINGO contact and set course for
LINDORO STRAIT, enroute to BASE (FREMANTLE, W.A.).

ENCLOSURE (A).
-17-

— page 88 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. R.TON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

March 30, 1944 (42nd).
Enroute Base via MINDORO STRAIT.

0544 (H) Submerged.
0615 (H) Surfaced.
1502 (H) Plane contact on SD radar (Plane Contact No. 7), distant 11 miles.
     Not sighted. Submerged to 150ft. Lat. 12°-59'N; Long. 119°-35'E.
1629 (H) Surfaced.
1910 (H) Commenced transit of MINDORO STRAIT, via WEST APO PASS.

March 31, 1944 (43rd).
Making passage through MINDORO STRAIT, enroute base.

0400 (H) Completed passage. Set course to patrol off west coast of PANAY.
0511 (H) Submerged. Patrolling off west coast of PANAY, 7-8 miles off
     shore on southerly course.

April 1, 1944 (44th)
off PANAY coast, heading south for SIBUTU PASSAGE.

0528 (H) Submerged.
0557 (H) Surfaced.

April 2, 1944 (45th).
In SULU SEA, enroute to SIBUTU PASSAGE.

0545 (H) Submerged about 25 miles north of LAPARAN ISLAND.
1805 (H) Surfaced. Commenced passage between PEARL BANK and LAPARAN ISLAND.
1912 (H) Sighted sail boat in center of passage. Avoided on surface.
2225 (H) Sighted patrol craft (Ship Contact No. 13), in northern en-
     trance of SIBUTU PASSAGE, on northerly course. Avoided on
     surface.
2245 (H) Commenced transit of SIBUTU PASSAGE.
2335 (H) Sighted flashing white light at southern entrance of PASSAGE.
     Could not identify source.

-18-
ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 89 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject:
U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD Har Patrol.
April 3, 1944 (46th)
Transitting SIBUTU PASSAGE.
0028 (H) Completed transit. Set course to Eastward to patrol DAVAO -
BALIKPAPAN route.
0535 (H) Submerged.
0608 (H) Surfaced.
2000 (H) Set course for HAKASSAR STRAIT.
April 4, 1944 (47th)
Patrolling DAVAO - BALIKPAPAN route.
0529 (5) Submerged.
0605 (H) Surfaced.
0835 (H) Plane contact (No. 8) on 3D radar, 12 miles, closing. Submerged
to 150ft. Flane not sighted. Lạt 20-41'N; Long. 1210-38'E.
1144 (H) Surfaced.
April 5, 1944 (48th)
Enroute south through MAKASSAR STRAIT.
0533 (H) Submerged.
1811 (H) Surfaced. During most of the day had a sail boat in sight to
the eastward of us and on southerly course.
2000 (H) Set course for CAPS ILLIAM (CELEBES).
April 6, 1944 (49th):
Enroute south through AKASSAR STRAIT.
0545 (H) Submerged northwest of CAPE ILLIAM,
1830 (H) Surfaced. During day sighted several sail boats.
2000 (H) Set course for LO DOK STRAIT. Several sail boats sighted
during night.
ENCLOSURE (A)
-19-
ز

— page 90 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.
April 7, 1944 (50th)

Enroute LOMBOK STRAIT.

0548 (H) Submerged.
0611 (H) Surfaced. During day sighted several sailboats. Avoided.
1040 (H) Sighted what appeared to be tops of a ship dead ahead, on
     horizon. Submerged.
1051 (H) Surfaced. Ship turned out to be a sail boat.
1602 (H) Sighted masts of ship (Ship Contact No. 14) bearing 194°T,
     hull down. Lat. 6°S; Long. 116°-53'E. Submerged and commenced
     approach.
1805 (H) At a range of 3,500 yards, broke off attack, as ship had all
     appearances of a decoy or "Q" ship. It was a small inter-island
     two mast type freighter, combination sail - diesel power. When
     first sighted it had one sail up. Unescorted, not zigzagging,
     and speed varied between 5 to 11 knots. On course 020°T. High
     freeboard, and forward well deck had appearance of being built-
     up. Considerable superstructure and unable to tell whether it
     had any guns or not. No stack. About every 20 minutes it
     pinged a couple of times - 16 KCS. Its screws were high speed
     and it changed speed at intervals. Bridge structure aft. A
     large number of people were observed on deck. Had a rising sun
     (Merchant) painted on bow. A small life boat was hung over
     stern. Too small for torpedoes.
1838 (H) Surfaced. Decided to make transit of LOMBOK STRAIT submerged,
     taking advantage of predominant south setting current.

April 8, 1944 (51st)

Enroute LOMBOK STRAIT.

0522 (H) Submerged 7 miles NE of eastern tip of BALI ISLAND and com-
     menced transit of LOMBOK STRAIT.
0727 (H) Sighted zero type float plane (Plane Contact No. 9) at northern
     entrance LOMBOK STRAIT, patrolling on E-W courses. Not sighted
     again. Ran at 100ft. between periscope observations.
1130 (H) Completed transit of LOMBOK STRAIT and set course for EXMOUTH
     GULF for fuel. Current in Strait was setting S-S-E, 3 knots.
1833 (H) Surfaced.
ENCLOSURE (A).
                                   -20-

— page 91 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

                                        <u>April 9, 1944 (52nd).</u>

Enroute to EXMOUTH GULF.

0600 (H) Submerged.
0635 (H) Surfaced.
1307 (H) Sighted U.S. Submarine (Ship Contact No. 15) bearing 250°T,
          distant about 8 miles, on northerly course. Probably FLASHER.
2210 (H) Cleared RATON Serial 2 (091043) to NWZ (Auckland, N.Z.), re-
          porting time of arrival at EXMOUTH GULF. NPG (San Francisco)
          also answered up. Unable to raise VIXO.

                                        <u>April 10, 1944 (53rd).</u>

Enroute EXMOUTH GULF.

0020 (H) Not sure that VIXO had received our Serial 2, so retrans-
          mitted. Delivered to VHM (COONAWARRRA), NWZ (NOUMEA) and
          NWZ (AUCKLAND) also answered up. Unable to raise VIXO.
0603 (H) Submerged.
0630 (H) Surfaced.

                                        <u>April 11, 1944 (54th)</u>

Enroute to EXMOUTH GULF.

0443 (H) Sighted Northwest CAPE. Various courses and speeds standing
          into EXMOUTH GULF via swept channel.
0836 (H) Moored alongside fuel barge. Received 13,814 gallons diesel
          oil.
1348 (H) Underway for FREMANTLE standing out via swept channel.
1544 (H) Cleared EXMOUTH GULF and set course for FREMANTLE via bombing
          restriction lane. Made short dive to check trim.

                                        <u>April 12, 1944 (55th)</u>

Enroute to FREMANTLE. Made short dive during morning. At
night conducted battery discharge (3 hour rate).

                                        <u>April 13, 1944 (57th)</u>

Enroute to FREMANTLE. During morning made short dive.

ENCLOSURE (A)                                       -21-

— page 92 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATOON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.
April 14, 1944 (57th)

Enroute FREMANTLE:

0250 (H) Sighted ROFFNEST LIGHT.
0700 (H) At rendezvous. Standing into FREMANTLE HARBOR via swept
channel.
0820 (H) Picked up Squad. T.S.S. personnel, ran Degaussing Range and
proceeded to COCKBURN SOUND for sound tests.
1045 (H) Completed sound tests. Proceeding to FREMANTLE.
1211 (H) Moored alongside U.S.S. ORION.

C. WEATHER

In Java and Flores Seas weather squally. Off Indo-China coast,
weather generally clear - no rain. Wind in Java and Flores Sea from W-
NW, force 1-3 knots. In South China Sea wind from N-NE, force 1-3 knots
until about March 15, 1944. From that date the winds were gentle in
force, but variable in direction - change of monsoon.

D. TIDAL INFORMATION

North of Barrier to South China Sea current set generally to
east, drift 0.5 knots; In South China Sea current set SE-S, drift 1
knot. Close to coast off CAPES PADARAN and VARELL, current set SE-S,
drift 2-3 knots. In vicinity of Dangerous Ground current set N-NE, drift
about 1 knot. In LOMBOK STRAIT a 3 knot current set S-SE.

E. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

Lighthouse (white structure) on CAPE PADARAN was observed.
Not lighted. Light houses on CAPE VARELLA and PULO LAUBIR were ob-
served, but not lighted.

-22-

ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 93 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

F. SHIP CONTACTS

NO. | TIME | LAT.     | TYPE(s)                 | INITIAL    | EST.COURSE | HO      | RE-
NO. | D.TE | LONG.    |                         | RANGE      | SPEED      | CONTACTED | MARKS

1   | 1515 H | 07-43S   | Submarine USS           | 3,000 yds. | 300T       | P       |
    | Feb.25 | 115-04E  | RASHER                  |            | 10 kts.    |         |

2   | 1731 H | 07-37S   | Convoy - 2 Maru's       | 13 miles   | 135T       | Surface | Tracked
    | Feb.25 | 114-52E  | 2 escorts - 1FLM        |            | 7.5 kts.   | P       | Convoy.
    |        |          | & 1FM                   |            |            |         | RASHER sank
    |        |          |                         |            |            |         | both Marus.

3   | 2702 H | 07-48S   | Unidentified            | 7,600 yds. | 035T       | R       | Possibly either
    | Feb.25 | 115-17E  |                         |            | 10 kts.    |         | RASHER or convoy
    |        |          |                         |            |            |         | escort. Small pip.

4   | 0915 H | 06-27S   | Submarine               | 7,000 yds. | 000T       | P       | Probably
    | Feb.26 | 116-23E  | American                |            | 14 kts.    |         | RASHER.

5   | 1045 H | 05-15N   | Conning tower of        | 15 miles   | 270T       | S.D.    | Avoided on
    | Mar.4  | 108-45E  | Submarine or patrol     |            |            |         | surface.
    |        |          | craft.                  |            |            |         |

6   | 1545   | 07-28N * | Submarine               | 15 miles   | 160T       | S.D.    | Exchanged
    | Mar.5  | 111-45E  | USS BLUEFISH            |            | 8 kts.     |         | info.

7   | 1620   | 11-30N   | Unidentified            | 12 miles   | South      | Sound   | Pinging and
    | Mar.10 | 109-05E  |                         |            | not known  |         | smoke. Tar-
    |        |          |                         |            |            |         | gets never seen.

8   | 0403   | 13-14N   | Trawler type            | 2½ miles   | South      | S.N.    | Worked a-
    | Mar.15 | 109-38E  | small vessel            |            | 9 kts.     |         | round to North.

9   | 1503   | 13-18N   | 9 ship convoy with      | 10-12      | 020T       | P       | Unable to
    | Mar.15 | 109-20E  | 4 escorts. (6 AOS,      | miles      | 8-10 kts.  |         | reach attack
    |        |          | 1 AP, 2 AKs, 1 CM,      |            |            |         | position. See
    |        |          | 1 PG, 2SCs).            |            |            |         | Narrative.

10  | 1854   | 13-40N   | 2 PCs                   | 8 miles    | Southwest  | S.D.    | Avoided on
    | Mar.15 | 109-32E  |                         |            |            | (high P)| Surface.

11  | 2125   | 11-57N * | Submarine               | 5,400 yds. | 140T       | R       | Exchanged
    | Mar.21 | 110-37E  | USS HADDO               |            | 15 kts.    |         | info.

12  | 1108   | 12-57N * | Submarine               | 7 miles    | 220T       | P       | Exchanged
    | Mar.22 | 112-11E  | USS HADDO               |            | 10 kts.    |         | info

* Position of Submarine (Cont.)

ENCLOSURE (A).                                                              -23-

— page 94 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

F. SHIP CONTACTS (Cont.)
| No. | TIME | LAT. | LONG. | TYPE(s) | RANGE | INITIAL | EST.COURSE | HOW | RE- |
|---|
| | DATE | | | | | | SPEED | CONTACTED | MARKS |
|---|
| 13 | 2225 | 5N | | Patrol | 5 miles | North | 5-7 kts. | SN | Patrolling |
| | Apr.2 | 119-42E | | | | | | | North Entr. | SIBUTU PASS. |
|---|
| 14 | 1602 | 6S | | Small inter-inland | 10 miles | 020T | 5-11 kts. | SD | Possible |
| | Apr.7 | 116-53E | | type. | | | | | "Q" or decoy. |
|---|
| 15 | 1307 | 13-00S | | U.S.S. Submarine | 8 miles | 000T | 15 kts. | SD | Probably |
| | Apr.9 | 115-07E | | | | | | | USS FLASHER. |
|---|

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS.
| No. | TIME | LAT. | LONG. | TYPE(s) | INITIAL | EST.COURSE | HOW | RE- |
|---|
| | DATE | | | | RANGE | SPEED | CONTACTED | MARKS |
|---|
| 1 | 0750 | Exmouth | | Kingfisher | 6,000 yds. | Var. | S.D. | Escort |
| | Feb.21 | Gulf | | | | | | | Plane |
|---|
| 2 | 1245 | 12-55S | | 2 motor monoplane | 5 miles | Southeast | S.D. | Turned |
| | Feb.23 | 115-18E | | Unidentified | | | | | toward us. | Dove to 200ft. |
|---|
| 3 | 1342 | 6-23S | | Zero Float plane | 8 miles | South | S.D. | Dove |
| | Feb.26 | 116-08E | | | | | | | immediately |
|---|
| 4 | 1624 | 11-25N | | Zero Float Plane | 10 miles | South | P | Escort for |
| | Mar.9 | 109-17E | | | | | | | ships. |
|---|
| 5 | 1647 | 12-47N | | Zero Float Plane | 8 miles | North | P | It turned |
| | Mar.14 | 109-29E | | | | | | | toward us. Could | not find later. |
|---|
| 6 | 1357 | 17-00N | | Plane unidentified | 11 miles | - | R | Did not see. |
| | Mar.16 | 110-20E | | | | | | | |
|---|

ENCLOSURE (A).
-24-

— page 95 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont.)

| No. | TIME | LAT. | LONG. | TYPE(s) | RANGE | INITIAL EST.COURSE | HOT | SPEED | CONTACTED | REMARKS |
|---|
| 7 | 1502 | 12-59-30N | Plane | 11 miles | - | - | R | Not sighted. |
|   | Mar.30 | 119-35-20E | Unidentified | | | | | | |
| 8 | 0835 | 2-41-30N | Plane | 12 miles | - | - | R | Not sighted. |
|   | Apr.4 | 121-38E | Unidentified | | | | | | |
| 9 | 0727 | 8-28S | Zero Float | 7 miles | E-W | - | P | Patrolling |
|   | Apr.8 | 115-46E | Plane | | | | | | | Lombok Strait. |

H. ATTACK DATA

NONE.

I. MINES

NONE.

J. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

Float planes observed patrolling off CAPES PADARAN and VARELLA.
Patrol boat observed patrolling southern entrance of SIBUTU PASSAGE.
It may have been a coincidence, but on both occasions that
ship movements were observed off CAPES PADARAN - VARELLA, there was a
marked increase in the number of sail boats operating off these points,
indicating possibly their use as "spotters".
The small inter-island type ship sighted on April 8, 1944,
(See Narrative) had all the appearances and actions of a decoy or "Q"
ship.
A float plane patrol was observed over LOMBOK STRAIT.

K. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

(1) Sea and stop valves in Officer's head leak very bad,
at deep depths.
(2) Numerous air leaks in 600 lb. air blow manifold, neces-
sitating securing of manifold on dives to prevent air bubbles escaping
through ballast tank blow lines.
(Cont.)

ENCLOSURE (A). -25-

— page 96 —
Q-Q-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject:
Κ..
U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.
MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (Cont.)
(3) Brake on No. 1'periscope will not hold. Tere unable to ad-
just properly.
(4) Hydraulic lant vory noisy in operation.
(5) Bow and Stern lane shafting getting progressively noisy.
(6) Pit-log and fathometer were a source of recurring trouble.
Both should be thoroughly checked.
(7) The lic bridge :icrophone pressure-proof coupling boxes
flooded out.
(8) During patrol renewed 2 connecting rod bearings on No. 2
M.E. and 3 connecting rod bearings on No. 3 M.E.
(9) On March 6, 1944 renewed complete piston assembly and lines
on No. 2 Unit of No. 2 M.E., because of broken compression ring.
(10) On March 16, 1944 the core of L.O. cooler on No. 2 L.E.
developed a leak. Replaced with spare.
L.
received.
M
RADIO
Performance of radio equi ment satisfactory. All messages were
Considerable interference was noted at times in the China Sea.
RADAR
The performance of both radars was very good, except for minor
repairs and adjustments. The ground resistance on the SD Mast has de-
creased to 100,000 ohms, and the mast should be pulled during next refit
period. The ship's force installed a keying relay on SD radar, using
spare parts from various other installations.
N.
SOUND GEAR & SOUND CONDITIONS
Sound gear in good condition.
Sound conditions fair to good.
ENCLOSURE (A).
-26-

— page 97 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

0. DENSITY LAYERS

March 5, 1944: Lat. 7-40N; Long. 112-15E. A six (6) degree drop in
             water temperature from 160ft. to 200ft. (81°F to 75°F).
March 6, 1944: Lat. 8N; Long. 112-30E. Same gradient as found on
             March 5, 1944.
March 7, 1944: Lat. 10-45N; Long. 110E. A five (5) degree drop in
             water temperature from 150ft. to 210ft. (80°F to 75°F).
March 10, 1944: Lat. 11N; Long. 110-50E. A gradual drop of four (4)
             degrees from 70ft to 160ft. (78°F to 74°F).
March 12, 1944: Lat. 15N; Long. 115E. An abrupt drop of four (4)
             degrees at 210ft. (79°F to 75°F).
March 13, 1944: Lat. 14-30N; Long. 113E. A drop of four (4) degrees
             from 200ft. to 250ft. (79°F to 75°F).
March 18, 1944: Off PULAU KAMBIR (Indo-China). A gradual drop of
             five (5) degrees from 200ft. to 250ft. (79°F to 75°F).
March 19, 1944: Lat. 12-30N; Long. 110E. A drop of six (6) degrees
             from 120ft. to 240ft. (80°F to 74°F).
March 21, 1944: Lat. 9N; Long. 111E. A drop of six (6) degrees from
             210ft. to 250ft. (81°F to 75°F).
March 22, 1944: Lat. 12-19N; Long. 110-10E. A drop of six (6) degrees
             from 180ft. to 240ft. (80°F to 74°F).
March 25, 1944: Lat. 13-45N; Long. 110E. A drop of four (4) degrees
             from 80ft. to 200ft. (82°F to 78°F).
March 26, 1944: Lat. 13N; Long. 109-30E. A drop of four (4) degrees
             from 120ft. to 240ft. (78°F to 74°F).
March 27, 1944: Lat. 13-45N; Long. 110E. A drop of six (6) degrees
             from 60ft. to 250ft. (78°F to 72°F).
March 28, 1944: Lat. 13-40N; Long. 111-45E. A drop of seven (7) degrees
             from 140ft. to 240ft. (81°F to 74°F).
March 29, 1944: Lat. 12-40N; Long. 116-15E. A drop of two (2) degrees
             from 60ft. to 200ft. and seven (7) degree drop from
             200ft. to 240ft. A total of nine (9) degrees.
             (82°F to 73°F).
March 30, 1944: Lat. 13N; Long. 118E. A drop of ten (10) degrees
             from 60ft. to 225ft. (85°F to 75 °F).

                                                              (Cont.)
                                                              -27-
ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 98 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.

O. DENSITY LAYERS. (Cont.)

March 31, 1944: Lat. 11-30N; Long. 122E. A drop of five (5) degrees from
                  200ft. to 250ft. (82°F to 77°F).

April 5, 1944: Lat. 00-40N; Long. 119-30E. A drop of six (6) degrees
                  from 200ft. to 250ft. (84°F to 78°F).

April 8, 1944: LOMBOK STRAIT. A drop of six (6) degrees from 80ft. to
                  200ft. (86°F to 80°F).

P. HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY.

        Food and habitability good. Health generally good. Two (2)
men developed urethral discharge after departure on patrol. Treated by
Pharmacist's Mate with Sulfathiazole. Patients cured in ten (10) days.
One man had an abscessed wisdom tooth. The abscess was lanced and the
pain eased by Codein and aspirin. Returned to duty in six (6) days.

Q. PERSONNEL.

        The performance of duty and conduct of personnel was of highest
order.

R. MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED.

                                                PIT LOG
                                                MILES         GALS.

(a) Base (Fremantle) to area (North of Barrier): 1832.1        23,881
(b) In area (North of Barrier) 8,422.0        71,351
(c) Area to base (Fremantle 1,642         17,147

S. DURATION

(a) Days enroute to area (North of Barrier) - 7.
(b) Days in area (North of Barrier) - - - - - 44
(c) Days enroute to base 6
(d) Days submerged. 21

T. FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

TORPEDOES (no.) FUEL (Gals) PROVISIONS (days) PERSONNEL FACTOR (days)
      24          9,700           30                  15

        Limiting factor this patrol: Fuel and Ord.

U. REMARKS

        No positive indications of enemy radar were observed, either
ship or shore based.
        From only two observations of enemy ships off Indo-China Coast,
traffic continues to hug the coast line. One Northbound convoy hugged
the coast as far north as PULO KAKIR, and then apparently broke away to
eastward at night.
                                                -28-

— page 99 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Report of THIRD War Patrol.
U. REMARKS (Cont.)

The conversion of No. 4 Main Ballast Tank
Tank will be a great help. Not so much to increase the length of
patrols, but will increase the area coverage and searches.

ENCLOSURE (A).
-29-

— page 100 —
[HANDWRITTEN: ->]
FC5-16/A16-3
Serial #0247

SUBMARINE SQUADRON SIXTEEN

(2/Es)

U.S.S. RASHER, Flagship,
18 April 1944.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS RATON (SS270)
Report of 3rd War Patrol
FC5-16-3 Serial 06
dated 14 April 1944.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of THIRD War Patrol -
Comment on.

1. The third war patrol of the U.S.S. RATON covered a period
of fifty-seven days. Forty-four days were spent in waters North of the
the Barrier.

2. Two enemy convoy sight contacts were made. The RASHER
sank both ships in the first convoy. Unfortunately contact was lost on
the second convoy which possibly deviated from the coast earlier than
expected. Numerous sight, voice and radar contacts were made with our
own submarines which emphasizes the importance of continued training
and doctrinatlon designed to improve interchange of information and
facilitate multiple attacks against important convoy targets.

3. The material condition is good and her cleanliness is excel-
lent. The number four Main Ballast Tank will be converted to a Fuel
Ballast Tank and it is expected that defects can be corrected in the
normal time.

4. The Squadron Commander regrets that contact with the enemy
on this patrol did not result in damage upon the enemy and is confident
that the Commanding Officer, officers and crew exerted and will continue
to exert every effort to locate and destroy enemy shipping.

[SIGNATURE: H. H. McLean]
H. H. MCLEAN.

— page 101 —
FE24-71/A16-3                               UNITED STATES NAVY
Serial: 0391                                                              12/gr
                                                                          26 April 1944.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:                                                    A 022817
USS RATON (SS270) Conf.
ltr. A16-3 Serial 06
dated 14 April 1944.
Report of Third War
Patrol.

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

Subject:     U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Third War Patrol -
             Comment on.

             1. The U.S.S. RATON conducted her Third War Patrol
in the central part of the SOUTH CHINA SEA and principally
along the FRENCH INDO-CHINA coast. Remarks of the Commander
Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN are concurred in.

             2. This patrol is designated as "Not Successful"
for purposes of award of the Submarine Combat Insignia.

             3. No damage was inflicted on the enemy.
                                                      [SIGNATURE: R. W. Christie]
                                                      R. W. CHRISTIE.

DISTRIBUTION:
Cominch             (3) - (Direct)
Vice Opnav          (2) - (Direct)
Vice Opnav Op-23c   (1)
ComlstFlt           (1)
Com2ndFlt           (1)
Com3rdFlt           (1)
Com7thFlt           (2)
ComSubs1stFlt       (4)
ComSubs2ndFlt       (4)
CTF-71              (2)
CTF-72              (2)
CSS-15              (1)
CSS-16              (1)
DivComs Ron-12      (1)
DivComs Ron-16      (1)
S/M School N.L.Conn. (2)
Each S/M W.A.       (1) - NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SEA - BURN

                                                      [SIGNATURE: P. F. Straub, Jr.]
                                                      P. F. STRAUB, JR.,
                                                      Flag Secretary.

ORIGINAL COPY

[HANDWRITTEN: X]

— page 102 —
[HANDWRITTEN: ?]

UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET

[STAMP: Reg. No. OM-4435
P.S. No. 022817]

Al6-3(F-3/roj)
Serial: [HANDWRITTEN: 01125]

12 MAY 1944

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
USS RATON (SS270) Conf.
ltr. Al6-3 Serial 06
dated 14 April 1944.
Report of Third War
Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Third War Patrol.

1 Forwarded.

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

— page 103 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

U.S.S. RATON (SS270)
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California.

June 23, 1944

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. RATON.
To: Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) Commander Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN.
     (2) Commander Submarines SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol
         Number Four (4).

Enclosure: (A) Subject report.
         (B) Plot of the track of the U.S.S. RATON
             during subject War Patrol.
         (C) Navigational time plots of attacks during
             subject War Patrol.

1. Enclosures (A), (B) and (C), covering the Fourth
War Patrol of this vessel conducted in the Java Sea and South
China Sea (South of Latitude 10° North) during the period May
19, 1944 to June 23, 1944, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: W.W. DAVIS]
W. W. DAVIS.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP09B6 DATE 6/1/72]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: Filmed
82095]

— page 111 —
0345 (H) Started in again, planning to fire 6 at leading AF and turn
and fire 4 at rear DD. However, at a range of 6,000 yards,
the near destroyer turned and headed directly towards us,
closing range rapidly. We turned and put him astern and made
ready for a "down the throat" shot at him, but at a range of
4,000 yards; it turned back and rejoined formation. We pulled
out and worked ahead again. The APs were still in column, but
the destroyers were apparently circling them at a range of 1,500
-2000 yards. Occasionally one of the destroyers would break
away and head out in our direction for a while - apparently
making a sweep - then turn back for formation. It was very
difficult to keep track of the maneuvers of the destroyers,
which made tracking of larger targets difficult. A PPI would
have been a big help in this situation. At this time decided
to close and fire low power shots, as it looked like the DDs
would prevent us closing for any other type. Visibility had
also improved considerably. Worked ahead for position and at

0440 (H) Started in for low power shots, planning on firing 3 at leading
DD, 3 at large leading AP, and then turn and fire the 4 Mk. 18's
at after DD of formation, when range closed sufficiently.

0446 (H) Commenced firing (Range 5,600 yards) (Torpedo Attack No. 2a and
2b) 3 at DD, shifted and fired 3 at leading AP, then turned
and brought stern tubes to bear on after DD. At what I thought
was range of 2,800 yards, commenced firing 4 Mk. 18's at after
DD. (Torpedo Attack No. 2c). However, the range was actually
3,800 yards and I had misunderstood the word. Should have not
fired them. Lat. 1°-44' N; Long. 107°-17' E. All torpedoes
missed. Apparently they saw some wakes, as shortly after firing
stern tubes the near DD turned towards us for short time. We
pulled out to NE to reload and started working ahead again.
However, the entire formation had now increased speed to 15
knots and steadied on course 305° T, which headed them directly
for the ANAMBAS ISLANDS, about 70 miles away. With only 3-4
knot speed advantage over convoy, it would take 5-6 hours for
us to work ahead again. By that time, the convoy would be at
the ANAMBAS, so at

0530 (H) when it began to get light, range 15,000 yards, bearing 290° T,
broke off and headed for passage between GREAT and SOUTH NATOENA
ISLANDS.

0622 (H) Submerged. Remaining submerged to give all hands a much
needed rest.

1200 (H) Lat. 2°-07' N; Long. 107°-32' E.

1910 (H) Surfaced.

2010 (H) Cleared RATON Serial No. 1 . . . to VHM (CONAWRA) reporting
attacks.

- 8 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 115 —
L
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:
U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol Number Four.
14.31 (H)
At periscope depth. Tarjet zigzagging wildly - angle on bow
from 140°P to 140° S. Held fire as chances of hitting were sligt.
1543 (H)
f
Surfaced and commenced another end arcund run at full speed
on 4 main engines.::
1925 (H) Target bearing 205° T, distant about 12 miles. Submerged
on normal approach course for sound-radar approach,
2005 (H)
Sound bearing on target 170°T. From then on tracking on
sound and came up to 40 ft. several times, but never able
to make radar contact. Sound plot showed target to be still
zigzagging.
2055 (H) Target went by zigzagging at estimated range of 3,000 yards.
Tried several times for ping range - no results. Could not
see target, although bright moon light night (half moon).
2112 (H)
Surfaced and headed on target's last true bearing at 16 knots.
2148 (H)
Sighted smoke of target, dead ahead (045° T), estimated range
6,000 yards. Continued to close, No radar contact.
2208 (H) Just barely able to make out target, about half way between
us and horizon. Still not able to pick it up on radar.
2215 (H) Target suddenly disappeared, Stopped to listen no results.
Undoubtedly we had been sighted. Did not like set-up, as
moon was too bright and we could not pick him up by radar at
any time.
:
2220 (H)
Broke off contact and headed south. He certainly was an elusive
"baby" and it was discouraging to miss him after 5 attempts.
May 29, 1944 (20th)
Enroute own area, South of DANGEROUS GROUND.
0548 (H)
Submerged.
0625 (H)
Surfaced.
1055 (H)
Sighted U.S. Submarine (Ship Contact No. 11) Lat. 10°-321 N;
Long. 110°-07' E. Closed and exchanged info with USS GUNNEL.
- 12-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 119 —
CONFIDENTL
Subject:
U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol Number Four.
to be in line, normal to basd course.
1348 (H) Sighted float type plane ("zero") cruising over convoy.
(Plane Contact No. 6). Apparently we were not sighted so
continued working ahead of convoy keeping plane in sight.
1356 (H) Sighted second float plane over convoy. One plane left and
headed west. Apparently first plane relieved by second.
1630 (H) Plane headed for us and commonced closing. Submerged and
commenced approach.
1930 (H) Went to Battle Stations, closing in.
1940 (H) Pinging on sound gear.
2120 (H) Dead aheed of the center of convoy, which presented a
united form with all ships in line of bearing, except one
large destroyer which was about 1,000 yards dead ahead of
westernmost ship. Unable to determine types of ships as
never got a broadside view of them. Got set-up on leading
destroyer.
2123 (H) Fired three torpedoes at destroyer. Lat. 8°-58' N; Long. 109°
30' E. First hit in 40 seconds under stack; second hit seven
seconds later. Destroyer blew up with tremendous explosions
and broke in tow. Hits felt, and seen through periscope.
This attack was made submerged with bright moonlight (full
moon). SJ radar out of commission. Unable to locate trouble.
Fired at a range of 850 yards, 85° Starboard track, bow tubes,
torpedoes set at 5 feet. This destroyer was a large modern
one and very similar to "DD UN-1" type as shown in ONI-41-42.
Particular features were large raked stack (two stacks
converging at base in one large stack), and high sloping bow.
2125 (H) Stern of destroyer going under. Vertical to water. Bow had
disappeared. Was turning away planning on evading at periscope
depth but at
2126 (H) Five very close and heavy depth charges jarred us up con-
siderably - broke lights, knocked off paint and cork,
knocked out gauges, knocked pit, log motor off its base, etc.
No serious damage. Started deep. Realized later that those
first five must have been from the destroyer that sank, as
the other escorts were not close then. While passing 120
feet the depth charges started coming fast and furious.
Usually in barrages of 7 or 8.
-16-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 120 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: - - - - - U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol Number Four.
2142 (H) Forty-one (41) depth charges in last 15 minutes. None too
close but they shook us considerably. At 350 ft. with a
16° F Negative gradient, using evasive tactics. Running
silent, keeping escorts on quarter. Escorts pinging and
listening. Gradually drew away to westward.

2300 (H) Last of depth charges - far away. Total of 57. Pinging
very faint to east of us.

2340 (H) At 65 feet. Smoke visible, bearing 112° T.

2348 (H) Surfaced on course 275° T.

2351 (H) Three (3) columns of smoke and one (1) ship visible. Put
our stern to ship and commenced end around run to get ahead
of convoy. Secured from Battle Stations. Inspected 3 re-
maining torpedoes and found all flooded in gyro pots and
after body. During excitement of destroyer sinking and
depth charging, had forgotten to drain the tubes. Commenced
routining them.

June 7, 1944 (29th)

Chasing convoy.

0025 (H) Cleared RATON Serial . . . . to VIXO - reporting contact
and attack. Some Jap Station gave us a "Roger" for it also.
VIXO authenticated.

0029 (H) Lost sight of smoke bearing 085° T. Changed course to 090° T,
going ahead full on 2 main engines.

0137 (H) Sighted destroyer bearing 000° T, distant about 5-6 miles.
Put our stern to him and went ahead flank on 4 main engines.
Destroyer was on course 090° T.

0150 (H) Destroyer turned and headed for us. Apparently had sighted
smoke of our engines.

0156 (H) Destroyer started firing its guns at us. A 2 gun salvo
followed immediately by a 4 gun salvo. Looked like 4" or
5" guns. Flashes looked about like our 4" flashless powder.
None of shots were close. Believe he was firing at our
engine smoke, which was drifting off on our port quarter.
Submerged to 65 ft. At this time we were checking torpedoes
and had not completed check of our first one. Went to Battle
Stations and rigged for depth charge. Watched destroyer
close as through periscope. He continued firing his guns
until we were under. Worked around to westward keeping
destroyer on our quarter.

- 17 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 124 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:
U.S.S. R.TON (53270), Roport of War Patrol Number Four.
1230 (H)
Again called GUNNEL on TBS - no reply.
1300 (H)
Abandoned search and set course for JAVA SE. to patrol

June 11, 1944 (33rd)
Enroute to Patrol JAVA SEA.
0610 (H)
Submerged.
1200 (H)
La.. 1°-50' N; Long. 107°-38" E.
1905 (H)
Surfaced, Set course for KARIMATA STRAIT.

June 12, 1944 (34th)
Enroute to Patrol JAVA SEA via KARIMATA STRAIT.
0620 (H)
Submerged.
1200 (H)
Lat. 1°-11'.S; Long. 108°-15' E. Weather cleared up after
5 straight days of overcast sky, rain squalls, and poor
visibility.
1925 (H)
Surfaced.
2135 (H)
Commenced transit of KARIMATA STRAIT passing 8 miles south
of SERUTU ISLAND. Going ahead full on 4 main engines. Head
wind and seas cut down speed to 16 knots.

June 13, 1944 (35th)
Transitting KARIMATA STRAIT.
0615 (H) Submerged southern end of KARIMATA STRAIT. Set course to
pass NORTH of BAWEAN ISLAND.
1200 (H)
Lat. 4°-04' S; Long. 109°-34' E.
1705 (H)
Sighted large sailboat bearing 108° T. (Ship Contact No,
17). Lat, 4°-12' S; Long. 109°-46' E. On NE coarse. Went
to normal approach course to close.
1842 (H)
Surfaced and closed sailboat at 4 engines speed. Seen to be
a large 3 mast Chinese type Junk. Went close aboard and
fired a burst of .30 Caliber across its bow, but it did not
heave to. Shouted to them to douse sails, but they either
ignored us or did not understand. Tried cutting sails down
with .30 calibers, but no luck. It was flying a white flag
with red star in conter over a Jap Merchant flag. (When
asked later what the white flat with red star in center
represented, one of the crew said "NIPPON SINGAPORE". He
inferred that the Japs use different flags for different
areas).
-21-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 134 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol Number Four.

U.S.S. RATON (H) Torpedo Attacks Nos. 2 (a)(b)(c): Patrol Number 4.
Time 0446 (H) Date May 24, 1944 Lat. 1°-44' N; Long. 101°-17' E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION: Same convoy described in attack No. 1 Patrol No. 4.

SHIPS SUNK: None.

SHIPS DAMAGED: None.

TARGET DRAFT: 10 ft. and 20 ft. Course 320 Speed 13 Range 5600

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 12 Course 220 Depth Surface Track Angle 89° S.

FIRE CONTROL DATA

TYPE ATTACK: After the first attack convoy scattered, decided to
wait until they reformed before attacking again. At
0351 convoy reformed on base course 290°. They were
zigzagging 30° on either side at base course at no de-
finite time interval. At 0440, went in for attack. The
plan was to fire 3 torpedoes at the leading escort, shift
targets, and fire 3 at the leading AP; then fire the
stern tubes at the trailing escort. Commenced firing at
0446 at a range of 5600 yards, the torpedoes being set on
low power. Firing order 3, 4, 5. At 0447 Shifted targets
and fired 3 at the AP, firing order 6, 1, 2. Cam settings
were then changed to accomodate the Mk 18s aft, and at 0449
they were fired at the trailing DD. Firing order 9, 10,
7 and 8.

Torpedoes were set on 6 ft. for first and last targets
and 12 ft. for 2nd target.

SECOND ATTACK. 2 (a) (b)

| | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 | #1 | #2 |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Tubes Fired | 80S | 80S | 80S | 80S | 80S | 80S |
| Track Angle | 022 | 025 | 027 | 006 | 008 | 009-30 |
| Gyro Angle | 6ft | 6ft | 6ft | 12ft. | 12ft. | 12ft. |
| Depth Set | Low | Low | Low | Low | Low | Low |
| Power | miss | miss | miss | miss | miss | miss |
| Hit or miss | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Erratic | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A |
| Mk. Torp. | 25296 | 25320 | 40101 | 26167 | 24429 | 25483 |
| Serial No. | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 |
| Mk. Expldr. | | | | | | |

- 31 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 135 —
CONFIDENTIL
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol Number Four.

Serial No. 2803 6521 13062 7005 1374 6511
ctuation set contact contact contact contact contact contact
Actuation actual
- - - - - -
Mk. Warhead 16-1 16 16 16-1 16 16-1
Serial No. 11119 6212 2096 11480 6351 10596
Explosivé TPX TPX TPX TPX TPX TPX
Firing Interval 8 scc 8.scc 8 sec 8 sec 8 sec, 8 sec,
Type spread divergent divergent divergent divergent divergent divergent
Sea conditions calm calm calm calm calm calm
Overhaul Activity ORION ORION ORION ORIO N ORION ORION

SECOND ATTACK 2 (c)
Tubes Fred #9 #10 #7 #8
Track Angle 94°S 94° S 94 S 94°S
Gyro Angle 207 208 208-30 210
Depth Set 6ft. 6ft. 6ft. 6ft.
Power
Hit or miss miss miss miss miss
Erratic no no no no
Mk. Torp. 18 18 18 18
Serial No. 53685 53787 54154 53679
ik. Exploder 4-2 4-2 4-2 4-2
Serial No. 16663 16624 16684 16578
Actuation set contact contact contact contact
Actuation actuai
- - - -
Mk. warhead 18 18 18 18
Serial No. 839 885 684 877
Explosive TPX TPX TPX TPX
Firing Interval 8 sec. 8 sec 8 sec 8 sec
Type spread divergent divergent divergent divergent
Sea conditions calm calm calm calm
Overhaul ORION ORION ORION ORION
U.S.S. R.TON Torpedo Attack No. 3 Patrol No. 4
Time 1934 (H) Date May 27, 1944 Lat. 080139 N; Long 108°-49' Ε.

TARGET DATA DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION: Spent all afternoon working ahead of target, running at full
speed on four engines. Progress of target was determined by
large cloud of smoke from his engines. At 1819 submerged on
his track and waited for him. Target was a Japanese Submarine
of the RO 51 class. Visibility was fair at the termination of
of the attack because the sun had set. The sky was partially
cloudy, but moonlight night.

SHIP SUNK: None
SHIP D GED: None

- 32 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 136 —
CONFIDENTIAL
+
Subject:
U.S.S. R..TÓN (SS270), Report of War Patrol Number Four.
TARGET DRAFT:
15 ft.
course 0300 Speed 10.5 Range 1839.
OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 3
course 110
Depth 65
Track Angle 110°S
FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO D..TA
* TYPE ATTACK:
Worked ahead of target and submerged on his track
about 25,000 yards ahead of him. When he hove into
view tracking proved him to be on base course 0300
zigging 300 every 6 minutes. At 1900 he ceased zig-
zagging. at 1934 When the range was 1830 and the
torpedo run, 1900 commenced firing the bow tubes at
8 second intervals. Firing order, 1, 2, 3, 4. Com-
pleted firing at 193423. All torpedoes were set on
10 ft. and were in high power.

Sound bearings from the JP, and JK were utilized
to determine when the target zigged. Ranges were hard
to obtain. Tried to obtain a single ping range on
three different occasions with no success. On the fourth
try the operator finally managed to secure one at 1850
yds. On reaching the firing point, difficulty was
experienced in obtaining a firing bearing due to the
decreased visibility.

* NOTE: Sound man reported that two of the torpedocs
seemed to stop running after about one minute from the
time they were fired from the tubes.

THIRD ATTACK.
:
| Tubes Fired   | #1       | #2       | #3       | #4       |
| Track angle   | 110° P   | 110°P   | 120°R   | 110°P   |
| Gyro Angle    | 3540-301 | 354°30' | 350°-301 | 3520-301 |
| Depth set     | 10 ft.   | 10 ft.   | 10 ft.   | 10 ft.   |
| Power         | high     | high     | high     | high     |
| Hit or miss   | miss     | miss     | miss     | miss     |
| Erratic       | no       | no       | no       | no       |
| Mk. Torpedo   | 14-3     | 14-34    | 23       | 14-34    |
| Serial No.    | 40347    | 24339    | 41224    | 40522    |
| Mk. exploder  | 6-5      | 6-5      | 6-5      | 6-5      |
| Serial No.    | 13080    | 17261    | 7788     | 13078    |
| Mk. warhead   |          |          |          |          |
| Actuation Set | Contact  | Contact  | Contact  | Contact  |
| Actuation Actual | --     | --     | --     | --     |
| Serial No.    | 16       | 16-1     | 16       | 16-1     |
| Explosive     | 1780     | 5234     | 2842     | 11579    |
|               | TPX      | TPX      | TPX      | TPX      |

- 33 -
ENCLOSURE (..)

— page 148 —
FC5-16/A4-3
Serial: 0362
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS RATON (SS270)
Conf. Ltr. date June
23,1944. Report of 4th
War Patrol.

From:
To:
Via:

Subject:

SUBMARINE SQUADRON SIXTEEN

U.S.S. RASHER, Flagship,
30 June 1944.

The Commander Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN.
The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Fourth War Patrol -
Comment on.

1. The fourth war patrol of the U.S.S. RATON was conducted in
the JAVA SEA and SOUTH CHINA SEA areas, during the period 10 May 1944 to
23 June 1944. The patrol was of forty-six days duration with thirty-two
days spent north of the BARRIER.

2. The fourth patrol of the RATON was a very active one in which
enemy ships were destroyed by torpedoes, gunfire and one JUNK was boarded and
eleven Chinese prisoners were taken.

ATTACK NO.1 - A night surface attack on a convoy consisting of 3 AP's and
and four destroyer escorts. Approach was being made to fire bow and
stern tubes but eight minutes before firing convoy turned and point
point of aim was shifted to one destroyer escort. Four torpedoes were
fired from stern tubes and two hits were observed in a destroyer and
one in an AP. The destroyer blew up and sank in two minutes.

ATTACK NO. 2 (A), (B), (C) - This was on the same convoy as attack No. 1
after they had reformed. At a range of 6,000 yards one escort headed
for RATON but headed back for convoy at range 4,000 yards. RATON worked
ahead again to come in for attack. As the destroyers apparently were
circling the AP's at ranges of 1,500 yards. At this time the RATON was
handicapped due to not having a PPI. At range 5,600 yards low power
shots were fired from bow tubes, three at DD and three at leading AP.
Stern tube Mark 18 torpedoes were then fired at astern DD. Due to poor
communications to the bridge range was 3,800 yards instead of 2,800
yards. All torpedoes missed.

ATTACK NO. 3 - This was a submerged periscope attack on a Japanese
Submarine of the RO-51 class. Four torpedoes were fired at a ping
range of 1,850 yards. All missed.

ATTACK NO. 4 - A large convoy of eleven ships with four escorts, three
DD's and 1 SC or PC. This was a submerged periscope attack in a full
moon. Three torpedoes were fired at the leading destroyer, range 850
yards. Two hits were obtained and destroyer was seen to sink. Further
attack on the convoy was frustrated by Anti-Submarine measures.

- 1 -

— page 149 —
FC5-16/A4-3
Serial: 0362
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SUBMARINE SQUADRON SIXTEEN (Es)
U.S.S. RASHER, Flagship,
30 June 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Fourth War Patrol -
Comment on.

ATTACK NO. 5 - A small unescorted AK was hit by one torpedo and seen
to sink. A ping range was again obtained on this target before fire-
ing. Nine survivors were picked up.

A gun attack was made on two small inter-coastal freighters of 1000-
1500 and 500-700 tons respectively. Both were left burning and ex-
ploding and are belived to have been destroyed.

3. The material condition of the RATON is very good. The
mufflers were procured locally and some welding has been found unsatis-
factory. More rigid inspection has been instituted and this condition will
be remedied. It is hoped that the unsatisfactory smoke defect of the
engines will be improved when proper rings are available or when conver-
sion to cast iron pistons is accomplished. Refit will be completed in the
normal time and will include installation of the PPI and the new type trim
pump.

4. The morale was high and the ship was very clean and ship-
shape after this very active patrol.

5. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer,
Officers and crew on the damage inflicted upon the enemy.

[SIGNATURE: C. S. Isgrig]
C. S. ISGRIG,
By direction.

— page 150 —
FE24-71/A16-3 UNITED STATES NAVY 12a/gr.
Serial: 0685 14 July 1944.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
CO. USS.RATON Conf.Ltr.
of 23 June,1944. Report
of Fourth War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Fourth War
Patrol - Comment on.

1. The Fourth War Patrol of the U.S.S. RATON was
conducted in the Southern part of SOUTH CHINA SEA and
Eastern part of JAVA SEA. The remarks of the Commander
Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN are concurred in.

2. The Force Commander notes with pleasure the
sinking of two valuable escort ships. Destruction of these
ships is the most effective method of hampering enemy anti-
submarine activity.

3. The persistent chase of a Japanese Submarine of
the RO-51 Class was deserving of more success.

4. RATON's gun attack, well planned and effectively
carried out, resulted in the sinking of two inter-coastal
freighters.

5. This patrol is designated as "successful" for
purpose of award of Submarine Combat Insignia.

6. The Force Commander congratulates the Commanding
Officer, Officers, and Crew of RATON on the completion of
this successful patrol in which valuable enemy ships were
sunk. The following damage was inflicted upon the enemy:

SUNK

1 - Escort Vessel (EU) 1,700 Tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - Escort Vessel (EU) 1,200 Tons (Attack No. 3)
1 - AK (AKEGATA MARU - EC) 2,500 Tons (Attack No. 4)
1 - SMC (EU) 1,200 Tons (Gun Attack No.1)
1 - SMO (EU) 600 Tons (Gun Attack No.1)
1 - MIS 38 Tons (Scuttled)
TOTAL 7,238 Tons

- 1 -

— page 151 —
FE24-71/A16-3
Serial: 0685

[HANDWRITTEN: EM3V4D]
UNITED STATES NAVY 12a/gr.
14 July 1944.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
CO. USS.RATON Conf.Ltr.
of 23 June,1944.Report
of Fourth War Patrol

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Fourth War
Patrol - Comment on.

[HANDWRITTEN: 8-0323]
DAMAGED

1 - AP (Large - EU) 10,000 Tons (Attack No.1)

GRAND TOTAL 17,238 Tons

[SIGNATURE: P.F. Straub]
P.F.STRAUB, JR.,
Flag Secretary.

ORIGINAL COPY
DISTRIBUTION:
Cominch (3) - (Direct)
Vice Opnav (2) - (Direct)
Vice Opnav Op-23c (1)
ComlstFlt (1)
Com2ndFlt (1)
Com3rdFlt (1)
Com7thFlt (2)
ComSubs1stFlt (4)
ComSubs2ndFlt (4)
CTF-71 (4)
CTF-72 (2)
CSS-12 (1)
CSS-16 (1)
DivComs Ron-12 (1)
DivComs Ron-16 (1)
S/M School, N.L.Conn. (2)
Each S/M W.A. (1) - NOT TO BE TAKEN TO SEA - BURN.

[SIGNATURE: R.W. Christie]
R. W. CHRISTIE.

- 2 -

[HANDWRITTEN: 8 03135]

— page 152 —
UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET

[STAMP: Reg. No. OM-11058
R. S. No. 8 03135]

A16-3(F-3/roj)

Serial: [HANDWRITTEN: 0239]

12 AUG 1944

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS RATON Conf. ltr.
of 23 June 1944. Report
of Fourth War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Fourth War
Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

2. Commander Seventh Fleet congratulates the
Commanding Officer, Officers, and Crew of the U.S.S. RATON
on the completion of an aggressive War Patrol during which
7,238 tons of enemy shipping were sunk.

[SIGNATURE: J. M. Graf]
H. W. GRAF,
Chief of Staff.

Copy to:
ComSubs7th
ComSubRon-16
CO U.S.S. RATON

— page 153 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST copy]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

U.S.S. MATN (SS270)
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California.

10 September 1944.

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. MATN.
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN.
      (2) Commander Submarines SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. MATN (SS270) - Report of Fifth War
         Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Subject report.
           (B) Plot of the track of the U.S.S. MATN
               during subject War Patrol.
           (C) Navigational time plots of attacks during
               subject War Patrol.

1. Enclosures (A), (B) and (C), covering the Fifth
War Patrol of this vessel conducted in the South China Sea off the
coast of Luzon during the period July 13, 1944 to September 10,
1944, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: P. W. Shen]
P. W. SHEN.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9e] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72] [STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: Filmed]
[HANDWRITTEN: 91338]

— page 163 —
L
CONTIENTIAL
Suject:
U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Fifth War Tatrol.
0940
Battle stations submerged, commenced approach.
0954
Sighted Havis type plane over convoy. (Flane contact No. 13).
air escort consisted of one Rufe, one Zeke and two Mavis.
1034
Heard one torpedo explosion, believed hit by GUITARR. The screen-
ing Chidori has now made a circle about us at a range of 1,000
yards but upon the explosion headed towards convoy.
1036
First of about 50 depth charres - all distant. Convoy zigged
close into coast chancing the angle on the bow frem 15° port to
90° port which makes a submerged attack impossible. They followed
the coast line and rounded SANTLIGO ISLAND, closest range about
10,000 yards. Two escorts patrolling just off shore as ships
rounded Cape B LINAĆ.
1057
Sighted what appeared to be burning ship in vicinity of GUITARRES
attack.
1108
Secured from battle stations and decided to open out and trail
conwy. Heard distant depth charges intermittently during day.
1501
Surfaced and laid down very heavy snoke screen with nain engines.
1502
Sighted Tote type plane circling over Cape BOLINAC. (Flane
contact No. 14). Lost hin in the clouds.
1505
Sighted possible sncke from convoy bearing 380° T.
1512
Fete coming in en stern in glide, distant 6 miles. Made quick
dive. He must have seen our snoke. No bombs.
1618
Surfaced. Fete still in siht 18 miles away.
1630
Lost Fete in the clouds.
1648
S.D. Radar contact 5 miles. Nade quick dive.
1650
ne bonb - rather close.
+
1652
Second bonb
1
still close.
1855
Surfaced. Commenced search for convey at full power.
1900
Sent off contact report.

August 11, 1944.
0200
Completed scarch curve, no contact, thought convey may have gone
to sea, continued search to seaward.
0505
Made quick dive.

- 10 -
INCLOSURE (A)

— page 175 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. [UNCLEAR: ALTON] (SS270) - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS. (Cont'd.)
| | | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|24| 1125 | 2-53 S | Betty | 13 | Various | S.D. | Seen cruisin down CELEBES |
| | 3 Sept | 118-39E | | miles | 150 kts. | | COAST. |
|25| 1208 | 3-08 S | Betty | 12 | 150° T | S.D. | Cruising down CELEBES |
| | 3 Sept | 118-39E | | miles | 150 kts. | | COAST |
|26| 1707 | 6-42S | Unident- | 10 | | R. | Dove. |
| | 4 Sept | 116-37E | ified | miles |

(H) ATTACK DATA:

U.S.S. ALTON
Torpedo Attack No. 1
Patrol No. 5
Time 1002
Date August 4, 1944
Lat. 16-01 N Long. 119-43½ E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION: At 0711 made visual contact on an escort type maru of about
3,000 tons bearing 041° T, range 15,000 yards. At 0720 Sighted
large AO, similar "RIKKO MARU" page 283, ONI 208-J Revised.
At 0738 Sighted "Dave" type plane patrolling over convoy.
Visibility was poor toward the beach due to a haze.

SHIPS SUNK: None.
SHIPS DAMAGED: One, AO - RIKKO MARU, 9,132 Tons.

DAMAGE DETERMINED:

By: Heard timed, torpedo explosion - tanker when observed later was
listing to starboard and was down by the stern.

TARGET DRAFT: 8 Feet. Course 170°, Speed 4 knots, Range 2640.

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 4 knots Course 094° Depth 65 ft. Angle 88° Starboard.

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

TYPE ATTACK: At 0711 picked up escort maru and at 0720 picked up-tanker.
Escort was zig-zagging radically but tanker was on steady course
of 170° speed 4 knots. Commenced approach on escort whose
angle on bow varied from 50° port to 50° stbd. At time
didn't believe an attack possible. On tanker, At 0820 Shifted
targets and commenced approach on tanker. We were 10,000
yards off the track so the use of high speed was mendatory.

Ranges were very difficult to obtain due to the haze and the

- 21 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 177 —
CONFI ENTILL
Subject:
U.S.S.LTON (SS270) - Report of Fifth War Tatrol.

TYI E ATTACK:
FILE CONTROL AN TOATA
At 0554 Sighted one of the cuter screen of convcy;
determined him to be a coastal defonso boat, at 0558
convoy zigged away angle in bow 80° p range 11,000 yards,
Secured from battle stations. t 0744 Convoy zigged radically
placing us in firing position - Made all tubes ready. it
0757 Commenced firing the bow tubes, firing order 1, 2, 3
firing interval 8 seconds, range 1130 yards torpedo run
1000 yards. At 0757-20 ceased firing and shifted targets to
a rodiun AK. Angle on bow 40° p range 1500 yards and at
0757-30 commenced firing, firing order 4, 5, 6, firing
interval 8 seconds. Gyro angles on first target were 179
17° and 15° on the second target they were 28° 31° and
26-30°. 2º Divergent spreads were used. At 0757-45 ceased
firing. Set up checked but no hits were obtained. Because
of the necessity of lodging escorts, no information for a
plct was available. First torpedo of the first salvo wont
out on a poor bearing. The second salve of torpedoes was
fired on generated bearings.

SECON) ATTACK
| | First Salvo | | Second Salvo |
| Tubes Fired | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 |
| Track ingle | 55°p | 55°p | 55°p | 4300p | 43 P | 43.°p |
| Gyrongle | 17° | 170 | 150 | 230 | 310 | 26-30° |
| Depth Set | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| 1 ower | hich | hich | high | high | hih | hich |
| Hit or liss | miss | niss | miss | niss | miss | miss |
| Erratic | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Mk. Torpedo | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 |
| Serial No.. | 49497 | 49608 | 49310 | 49734 | 49832 | 53207 |
| Actuation Set | contact | contact | contact | contact | contact | contact |
| Actuation Actual | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Mk. Warhead | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 |
| Serial No. | 11943 | 17113 | 3569 | 17244 | 12303 | 13252 |
| Explosive | TTX | TIX | TIX | TTX | TIX | TTX |
| 1k. Exploder | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 |
| Serial No. | 17699 | 17375 | 17365 | 11269 | 25133 | 25247 |
| Firing Interval | 8 Sec. | 8 Sec. | 8 Sec. | 8 Scc. | 8 Sec. | & Sec. |
| Type Spread | divergent | div. | div. | div. | div. | div. |
| Sea Conditions | calm | calm | calm | calm | calni | calm |
| Overhaul Activity | CLION | CRION | CLICN | CLION | CLION | CRICN |

(I) MINES
No mines nor mining activity sighted.

- 23-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 180 —
CONFIDENT LAL
Subject:
U.S.S. [UNCLEAR: A.T.N] (SS270) - Report of Fifth war Patrol

(3) FEASONNEL
Terformance of both officers and men is in conformance with the highest
traditions of the naval service.

(i) MILES ST - FULL USE.
Fremantle, ... to arca | 2451 *nilos | 34,380 gallons.
In Arca | 8360 miles | 82,530 gallons.
Area to | 1464 miles | 21,071 gallons.

* Tit Log miles. The "Barrier" is considered to be the arca limits.

(S) CURTION
Days enrcute to arca. | 9
Days in area | 40
Days enroute to base | 6
Days Submerged | 24

(T) FACTORS AF EN UNCC LINING
Torpedoes | Fuel | Trovisions | icrsonnel Factor
(number) | (als) | (days) | (days)
14 | 8,100 | 15 | 10

Limiting factor this patrol. (peration order.

(U) RARKS
None.

- 26 -

INCLOSURE (A)

— page 182 —
FE24-71/A16-3
Serial: 01086
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS RATON Conf. Ltr.
A16-3 Serial 029 dated
10 September, 1944.
Report of Fifth War
Patrol.

From:
To :
Via:
Subject:

1.
[SORG]
12a/gr
25 September 1944.

The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
The Commander, SEVENTH FLEET.
U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Fifth War
Patrol - Comment on.
RATON's Fifth War Patrol was conducted in the
SOUTH CHINA SEA off the West Coast of LUZON as a member of a
Coordinated Search and Attack Group directed by the Command-
ing Officer of GUITARRO.

2.
This was the first War Patrol for the new
Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander M.W. SHEA, U.S.N.as
such.

3.
This patrol is designated "not successful" for
the award of the Submarine Combat Insignia.

4.
The following damage was inflicted:

DAMAGED
1 - AO (RIKKO MARU Type - EC)- 9,200 Tons (Attack No.1)

R. W. CHRISTIE.

DISTRIBUTION:
Cominch
Vice Opnav
Vice Opnav Op-230
ComlstFlt
Com2ndFlt
Com3rdFlt
Com7thFlt
ComSubslstFlt
ComSubs2ndFlt
CTF-71
(3) - (Direct) | CTG-71.3 | (2)
(2) - (Direct) | CTG-71.4 | (2)
(1) | CTG-71.5 | (2)
(1) | CTF-72 | (2)
(1) | DivComsSubRon-12 | (1)
(1) | DivComsSubRon-16 | (1)
(2) | DivComsSubRon-18 | (1)
(30) | S/M School N.L. Conn. | (2)
(4) | SubAd, Mare Island | (2)
(4) | S/MS 7THFLT | (1)

[HANDWRITTEN: R.L. 18]
P. F. STRAUB, JR.,
Flag Secretary.

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

— page 183 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]
DECLASSIFIED - DOD DIR. 5200.9
BY [UNCLEAR: 72C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 4/21/71]

SS270/A16

U.S.S. RATON (SS270)
Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, Calif.

1 December 1944.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

From: The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. RATON.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (Official Channels).

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol
Number Six.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Plot of the Track of the U.S.S. RATON
during subject War Patrol.
(C) Navigational Time Plots of Attacks.

1. Enclosures (A), (B) and (C), covering the
Sixth War Patrol of this vessel conducted in the South China
Sea off the northern approaches to PALAWAN PASSAGE and off
the western coast of LUZON during the period October 6, 1944
to December 1, 1944; are forwarded herewith.

2. The RATON was a member of a coordinated search
and attack group with the BREM and GUITARRO as directed by
BREM; and a search and attack group with RAY and BATFISH as
directed by RAY.

[SIGNATURE: J. W. SHUMAN]
J. W. SHUMAN.

[STAMP: Filmed]
[HANDWRITTEN: 100147]

— page 185 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.

6 October 1944
1300 Underway in accordance ComTaskGroup 71.1 OpOrd No. 141-44 in
     company HMAS EVERELL as escort.
1500 Commenced convoy exercise and coordinated attack with U.S.S.
     GURNARD.
2300 Exercise completed, proceeding to Exmouth Gulf.

7 - 8 October 1944
     Enroute Exmouth Gulf conducting daily training dives, ship and fire
     control drills.

9 October 1944
0936 Moored to fuel barge at Exmouth Gulf. Received 10,000 gallons
     fuel oil.
1426 Underway.
1630 Fired six rounds of 4" 50 cal. at derelict off Vlaming Head.
2115 Radar contact 7,750 yards, presumed to be U.S.S. MINGO.

10 - 11 October 1944
     Enroute BARRIER conducting section dives and drills.

12 October 1944
0530 Submerged 25 miles South LOMBOK Strait.
1826 Surfaced.
2000 Commenced transit LOMBOK Strait.
2145 Completed uneventful transit LOMBOK Strait.
2230 Encountered several sailboats. Avoided.

13 October 1944
0540 Submerged.
0820 Surfaced.
1030 SD contact 16 miles (Aircraft Contact #1) Did not dive.

- 2 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 186 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:
U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
1445
Passed U.S. Submarine Southbound, (Ship Contact #1).
14 October 1944
J403
Passed Scuthbound U.S. Submarine (Ship Contact #2).
0605
SD contact 16 miles (Aircraft Contact #2) Did not dive.
0900
Set, watch on lifeguard frequency for possible use in connection with
our raid on BALIKPAPAN
1000
SD and sight contact on 50 U.S. B-24's returning from raid on
BALIKPAPEN. A welcome sight. (Aircraft contact #3).
1200
Secured lifeguard frequency,
1230
Passed Southbound U.S. Submarine (Ship Contact #3).
7.425
SD contact at 8 miles (Aircraft Contact #4) Dived.
1443
Surfaced.
1453
Sighted U.S.S. FLASHER Southbound. Exchanged calls and received
information of patrol craft 40 miles to the north. Reported all
clear to the South and proceeded. (Ship Contact #4).
15 October 1944
0002
Exchanged recognition signals with another submarine on SJ Radar.
Unable to establish identity. (Ship Contact #5).
0632
SD contact 18 miles (Aircraft Contact #5) Did not dive.
0635
Sighted plane 'coming in at 9 miles. Dived.
0716
Surfaced.
0748
SD contact at 8 miles, closing (Aircraft Contact #6). Dived.
0827
Surfaced.
2100
Exchanged recognition signals and calls with U.S.S. NARWHAL while
making transit of SIBUTU Passage. (Ship Contact #6)
16 October 1944
0138
Sighted tracer fire and several flares in the direction of BORNEO
Coast. This JAP night training exercise lasted one half hour.
-3-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 192 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:
U.S.S. R.TON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
0300
All ahead standard searching convoy's track.
Picked up several radar pips close aboard. Probably debris
from convoy.
0450
Sent RATON serial One.
0505
Dived and remained submerged to give crew and officers a rest.
1515
Surfaced.
1636
Received CTF 71 serial 86 directing us to return to MIOS WOINDI
for reload. Changed course to head for MINDORO Strait en route
MIOS WOENDI.
2005
Exchanged recognition signals and cells with U.S.S. ELUNGILL on
SJ Radar (Ship Contact #11) Thanked her for contact report,

20 October 1944
0330
Exchanged recognition signals and calls with U.S.S. LEFON on SJ
Radar. (Ship Contact #12).
1740
Sighted submarine bearing 217° T. (Ship Contact #13).
1800
Exchanged recognition signals and calls with U.S.S. BREAN. Stopped
and exchanged information by megaphone. At request of Commanding
Officer BREM, carried out test of SJ radar communication while
opening range, proceeding on original course.
2030
Exchanged recognition signals and calls with U.S.S. GUILT RRO on
SJ Radar (Ship Contact /14).

21 October 1944
0035
J.O.O.D. sighted plane coming in astern. Dived. (Aircraft
Contact #18). Shortly before sighting aircraft a strong radar
signal was noted on APR at 178 Megacycles. The SD radar was
manned at this time, but no contact was made. This might have
been one of our rader equipped, night search planes on reccon-
aisance as no bombs were dropped.
0200
Surfaced.
0524
Dove 20 miles north of PEARL BANK.
1645
Surfaced.
1915
Exchanged recognition signals and calls with U.S.S. L.PON on SJ
radar. (Ship Contact #15).
--9-
ENCLOSURE (2)

— page 193 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:
U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
2210
Exchanged recognition signals and calls with U.S.S. CERO on SJ
Radar. (Ship Contact No. 16).
22 October 1944
0020
Commenced transit SIBUTU Passage.
0148
Cleared SIBUTU Passage.
0510
Sent RATON Two to CTF 71 giving ETA MIOS WOENDI.
1020
SD Contact 10 miles (Aircraft Contact #19). Challenged with
IFF and received reply. Plane was a Ventura bomber.

23 - 24 October 1944
In JOINT ZONE enroute MIOS WOENDI.

25 October 1944
In JOINT ZONE enroute MIOS WOENDI.
1200
Moored alongside H.M.A.S. KARUMBA, at MIOS WOENDI, received 47,765
gallons fuel oil.

26 October 1944
0700
Underway.
0730
Moored alongside U.S.S. ORION (AS18).

27 October 1944
1500
At MIOS WOENDI, took aboard 20 torpedoes, fresh water and stores
from U.S.S. ORION, installed new set of coils in No. 2 Vapor
Compression Still and made other minor repairs. Officers and
crew had one days recreation at Club Plonk.
Underway in accordance CTF 71 OpOrd 141-44 as modified by dispatch.

27 - 29 October 1944
Enroute area via joint zones. Encountered many friendly aircraft.

-10-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 198 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
                                8 November 1944

0425      Sighted smoke in bright moonlight bearing 255° T.
0430      Picked up ships by radar at 19,000 yards. (Ship Contact #27). Commenced
          running at high speed to gain position ahead, convoy on course
          160° T, speed 9. Sent contact report.
0557      Heard explosion.
0635      Sighted plane over convoy. (Aircraft Contact #40).
0659      Saw hugh column of smoke, evidently ship blowing up in convoy.
0750      Another explosion. Plane left convoy headed for DASOL BAY.
0925      Plane returned probably with another load of bombs. (Aircraft
          Contact #41).
0930      Plane closed to five miles. Dived.
1331      Surfaced, still in contact with smoke.
1515      Sighted two planes over convoy, "Bettys" (Aircraft Contact #42).
1516      Sighted "Mavis" over convoy. (Aircraft Contact #43).
1530      Lost contact with smoke, changed course and headed up last true
          bearing.
1558      Sighted plane coming in. Dived.
1650      Surfaced, unable to regain contact. Believe convoy anchored in
          DASOL BAY from direction of last observed bearing changes of smoke.
1742      Secured search for convoy. Headed north for rendezvous.
2010      SJ Radar contact on two patrol vessels ranges 11,000 and 10,800
          yards. (Ship Contact #28). Avoided.

                                9 November 1944

0053      Exchanged recognition signals and calls with U.S.S. BATFISH.
          (Ship Contact #29).

                                - 15 -

                                ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 203 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
Requested permission to go home.

0202 BATFISH reports new contact.
0215 Believe BATFISH is tracking us. Sent him a message to that effect.
0352 BATFISH lost contact.
0528 Dived.
1653 Surfaced.

16 November 1944

0005 Received message from CTF 71 directing RATON to proceed Pearl
     Harbor passing to Op control ComSubPac 0400 HOW, November 16.
0045 Departed area enroute Pearl Harbor.
0415 Sent RATON one to ComSubPac requesting routing instructions.
0507 Exchanged recognition signals and calls with U.S.S. TUNA by
     SJ Radar. (Ship Contact #34).
0644 Sighted two planes distance 6 miles. Dived. (Aircraft Contact #53).
1235 Surfaced.
1358 SD Contact 25 miles. (Aircraft Contact #54)
1413 SD Contact 35 miles. (Aircraft Contact #55).
1439 SD Contact 24 miles, seven "Bettys" southbound. Aircraft
     Contact #56).
1448 SD Contact 10 miles, four more "Bettys" southbound (Aircraft
     Contact #57).
1528 SD Contact 25 miles. (Aircraft Contact #58).

17 November 1944

0025 SJ Radar contact 7, 350 yards, probably patrol vessel, avoided.
     (Ship Contact #35).
0030 SJ Radar contact on SABTANG Island 60,000 yards.
0045 Received routing instructions from ComSubPac.
0310 SJ Radar contact 8,100 probably another patrol vessel. (Ship
     Contact #36).

- 20 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 204 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
0415 Cleared BALINTANG Channel.

18 November 1944
Enroute Pearl Via proscribed routing.

19 November 1944
Enroute Pearl.

20 November 1944
1030(I) SD Contact 24 miles. (Aircraft Contact #59).
1200(I) SD Contact 18 miles. (Aircraft Contact #60). Closed to
10 miles. Dived.
1218(I) Surfaced.

21 November 1944
1052(I) SD Contact 10 miles. Closing (Aircraft Contact #61). Dived.
1106(I) Surfaced.
1425(I) SD Contact 30 miles (Aircraft Contact #62). Plane had I.F.F.
1503(I) SD contacts with I.F.F. at 8 miles and 24 miles (Aircraft
Contact #63).

22 November 1944
1348 (K) SD Contact with I.F.F. 26 miles. (Aircraft Contact #64).

23 November 1944
1025(K) SD Contact 12 miles with I.F.F. (Aircraft Contact #65).

24 - 30 November 1944
Enroute Pearl.

1 December 1944
0930 (WX) Rendezvoused with escort in company of HALIBUT and BATFISH.
1353 (WX) Moored Submarine Base at Pearl Harbor, (T.H.).

- 21 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 211 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
(H) TORPEDO ATTACK DATA

Torpedo Attack No. 1

U.S.S. RATON (SS270) Patrol No. 6
Time 2204, Date 18 October 1944, Lat. 12° - 37' N; Long. 118° - 46' E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: A nine ship slow speed convoy of old type AKs, four of
which were large and four were medium to large. The
convoy was escorted by 3 DE type escorts and a "Q" ship which
also was a radar decoy. When observed at dusk, by periscope,
the convoy was disposed in three columns, two of which were
composed of three ships and the other had two. The two
Marus were disposed on a line of bearing in the column. The
Marus were not zig-zagging but the "Q" ship changed course
radically.

Original contact was made by sighting smoke after receiv-
ing BLUEGILL'S contact report. An end around was made by
daylight, the convoy having a BETTY and a MAVIS for air
cover at this time.

The attack was delivered on the surface at night. Visibility
was 800 yards. Seas were of a force three steadily building
up and it was raining heavily.

Ships sunk 1. - 1 EU large AP-Ak - 10,000 tons
2. - 1 EU - large AK - Similar TAMON MARU -
Page 70. ONI 208-J (revised).
3. - 1 EU - large AK - 7,500 tons.

Ships Damaged None

Damage Determined By:

1. Commanding Officer and C.C.D. saw two timed torpedo
explosions - tracked him to zero speed - later tremendous
explosion on targets bearing - Target disappeared from
radar screen.

2. Commanding Officer and C.C.D. saw timed hit - Target
disappeared from radar screen.

3. Commanding Officer and C.C.D. saw two timed torpedo
explosions - Target belched black smoke and disappeared
from radar screen.

Target draft 12' - 20', Course 165° T, Speed 8.5 knots, Range 1,800.

- 23 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 221 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol

(H) TORPEDO ATTACK DATA (Cont'd.)

Torpedo Attack No. 4
| #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6
Track Angle | 113°S | 114°S | 116°S | 117°S | 118°S | 119°S
Gyro Angles | 002 | 002.5 | 003 | 000 | 001 | 002
Depth Set | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6
Power | high | high | high | high | high | high
Hit or Miss | miss | miss | miss | miss | miss | miss
Erratic | no | no | no | no | no | no
Mk. Torpedo | 23 | [BOXED: 14-3A] | 23 | 14-3A | 23 | 14-3A
Serial No. | 49940 | 40817 | 49752 | 40213 | 49788 | 40321
Mk. Exploder | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5
Serial No. | 25402 | 25423 | 25430 | 25387 | 25422 | 25399
Actuation Set | contact | contact | contact | contact | contact | contact
Actuatuin Actual | | | | | |
Mk. Warhead | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1
Serial No. | 16348 | 17475 | 17476 | 16313 | 16344 | 16385
Explosives | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx

Firing Int. | 8
Type Spread | divergent
Sea condition | flat calm
Overhaul Activity | U.S.S. OHEON.

Remarks: Failure to hit due to flat sea conditions which allowed
         torpedoes to be seen as soon as they were fired.

- 38 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 223 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject:
U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.

(H) TORPEDO ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)

Torpedo Attack No. 5

| Tubes Fired | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Track Angle | 99°P | 100°P | 101°P | 102°P | 103°P | 104°P |
| Gyro Angle | 000.5 | 359.5 | 001 | 359 | 001 | 358.5 |
| Depth Set | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Power | high | high | high | high | high | high |
| Hit or Miss | miss | miss | miss | hit | hit | hit [HANDWRITTEN: ? see] |
| Erratic | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Mk. Torpedo | 23 | 14-3A | 23 | 14-3A | 23 | 14-3A |
| Serial No. | 49898 | 40819 | 49728 | 24203 | 50028 | 40722 [HANDWRITTEN: Correction If endorsement] |
| Mk. Exploder | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 |
| Serial No. | 25505 | 25406 | 25389 | 25420 | 24937 | 14336 |
| Actuation Set | contact | contact | contact | contact | contact | contact |
| Actuation Actual | | | | contact | contact | contact |
| Mk. Warhead | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 |
| Serial No. | 17065 | 17361 | 17387 | 16391 | 17324 | 17069 |
| Explosive | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx |
| Firing Interval | 8 | | | | | |
| Type Spread | divergent | | | | | |
| Sea conditions | calm | | | | | |

Overhaul Activity U.S.S. ORION.

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ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 229 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. RATON (SS270)- Report of Sixth War Patrol.
Subject:
-----
(I) MINES

Sighted one floating mine in the center of the CELEBES Sea.
It appeared to be a standard Jap Spherical shaped mine with four prongs,
floating with about 0.2 of its body above the surface. It was detonated by 20mm
/fire and when it exploded it gave a danger space of about 75 feet and sent a
geyser of water about 150 feet high.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

The convoy attacked on October 18th - 19th had three escorts
which were radar equipped as indicated by APR. Their countermeasures were
ineffective and evasion was carried out with no trouble.

There was a marked increase in the number of escorts and radar
equipped escorts protecting enemy shipping. Air cover was likewise increased.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

Gunnery Dept. -- 4 November -- Torpedoes No. 40805 and 40588 ran hot in tubes 2
and 4 during routine test of firing circuits. Torpedomen did not completely
bleed down the impulse air, there being 35 pounds left in the impulse flasks.
The torpedoes were pulled and given the following routine:

No. 40805 -- Removed the housing but could not reach the
governor to reset it. On taking off the bulkhead the governor was found to
be damaged, the gears on the rack were stripped. Unseated the governor valve,
and replaced the bulkhead. Re-assembled the torpedo giving it the regular
preliminary and final adjustments. Torpedo was ready in all respects except
the governor was inoperative. Air remaining in the flask after the governor
cut was 2,650 lbs.

No. 40588 -- Same procedure as for torpedo above. Governor
was damaged, gear on the oil pump shaft was stripped off. Put in pin to hold
gear to oil pump shaft and reset governor. Gave torpedo required preliminary
and final adjustments. Air remaining in the flask when the governor cut was
2,600 lbs.

Engineering Dept. -- 1. No. 2 Vapor Compression Still would not make battery
water after October 10th.

27 November -- 2. Lube oil and fuel oil purifier motors of forward engine
room grounded out. Coils cleaned and baked, spare field coil, interpole and
armature used to furnish one motor for lube oil purifier.

(L) RADIO

Radio reception was good.

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ENCLOSURE (4)

— page 232 —
CONFIDENTIAL
(U)

RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

INTERCEPTION OF ENEMY RADAR TRANSMISSIONS

1. Ship or Station: - U.S.S. EATON (SS270).

2. Area covered on this mission: - 06°-42' N - 119°-19'E - 16 Oct. 1944.
   2000 HOW.

3. Enemy radar was landbased.

4. Intercept Equipment: - APR and SPI.

5. (a) Frequency - 169 Megacycles.
   (b) PRF - 125.
   (c) Pulse Width - 4.25 micro sec.
   (d) Sketch Pulse
   [Drawing of a pulse waveform]
   (g) Sweep Rate - 2 min.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 233 —
CONFIDENTIAL
(U)
RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

INTERCEPTION OF ENEMY RADAR TRANSMISSIONS

1. Ship or Station: U.S.S. RATON (SS270).
2. Area covered on this mission: 13°-00' - 119°-30' - 18 Oct. 1944.
3. Enemy radar was shipborne.
4. Intercept Equipment APR and SPA.
5. (a) Frequency - 153 megacycles.
   (b) PRF - 500
   (c) Pulse Width - 10 micro sec.
   (d) [Image of a radar pulse waveform]
   (e) Was Lobe Switching Used? - No.
   (g) Sweep Rate. - 1 min.
6. Radar was used for surface search.
7. Sweep seemed to be forward of beam only. With full gain on both
   APR and SPA saturation on SPA screen occured under 6,000 yards.
8. Narrative:
   Contact was made during attacks upon a nine ship convoy with four
   escorts. The use of radar by the escorts in no way restricted our sur-
   face attacks upon the convoy.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 234 —
CONFIDENTIAL
(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

INTERCEPTION OF ENEMY RADAR TRANSMISSIONS

1. Ship or Station: - U.S.S. RATON (SS270).

2. Area covered on this mission: - 6°-27' N - 120°-15' E.
   20 October 1944. - 0020 HOW.

3. Enemy radar was Airborne.

4. Intercept Equipment - APR and SPA.

5. (a) Frequency - 178 micro sec.
   (b) PRF - 500
   (c) Pulse Width - 5 micro sec.
   (d)
   [Diagram of two radar pulses, one with a single peak, the other with two peaks, one inside the other]
   with lobe switching
   or homing
   (e) Was Lobe Switching Used? - Yes determined by: had one pulse inside
       the other at different times on SPA screen.

6. (a) Radar was used for surface search.
   (b) Evidence for this conclusion: - Forced down by night flying plane.

8. Narrative:
   Had definite simultaneous SJ contact at 18,000 yards on plane but
   we were undetected. A few minutes later we were forced down. It is
   possible that this could have been one of our own planes patrolling
   North entrance of SIBUTU PASSAGE.

- 51 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 235 —
CONFIDENTIAL
(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

INTERCEPTION OF ENEMY RADAR TRANSMISSIONS

1. Ship or Station: U.S.S. RATON (SS270)
2. Area covered on this mission: - 17°-47' N - 117°-43' E - 14 Nov. 1944.
3. Enemy Radar was shipborne.
4. Intercept Equipment - APR and SPA.
5. (a) Frequency - 98, 330 and 500 Megacycles.
6. (a) Radar was used for surface search.
7. Enemy radar interference was had at the same time on the SJ Radar. This
   interference was weak even at 5,000 yards. All contacts were from an
   escorting AK which was the mainstay of the convoy. This ship was sunk by
   another submarine before additional data could be obtained.

(V) REMARKS

None.

- 52 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 236 —
FB5-45/A16-3
Serial: 0132

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

FIRST ENDORSEMENT
CO RATON Conf. ltr. SS270/A16
dated 1 December 1944.
Report of SIXTH War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FIVE.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.
(3) The Commander-in-Chief, United States PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of War Patrol No. SIX.

1. The SIXTH war patrol of the U.S.S. RATON was conducted in the SOUTH
CHINA SEA off the approaches to PALAWAN PASSAGE and off the west coast of LUZON,
as a member of a coordinated search and attack group with the CREAM and GUITARRO;
and a search and attack group with the RAY and BATFISH. The duration of the
patrol was fifty-seven days of which thirty-five were spent in the area. Enemy
plane, ship, and anti-submarine patrol contacts were numerous. The RATON return-
ed to MICS WOENDI for a reload on 25 October and resumed patrol after two days
voyage repairs.

2. Seven contacts worthy of torpedo fire were made. One was a properly
identified hospital ship, two could not be closed, and the remaining four con-
tacts were brought under attack.

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 1 - On the night of 18 October a brilliant sur-
face radar approach on a nine ship convoy brought the RATON to a po-
sition 1800 yards on the port flank of the convoy, track angle 85
Port, small gyro angles, and six overlapping ships for a target. Six
Mk. 23 torpedoes were fired forward resulting in five hits in three
of these ships. All three of these ships are believed sunk as large
AK's. Explosions were seen and heard, heavy black smoke seen, and all radar
pips disappeared.
After a sharp turn, four Mk. 14-3A torpedoes were fired from
the stern tubes at a large AK at a range of 600 yards, track 124,
starboard, gyros 197. Two hits were observed on this target causing
target pip to disappear from the radar screen.

TORPEDO ATTACK No. 2 - In a continuation of the attacks against this
same convoy, on 19 October a night surface radar attack was made on
a target which had detached itself from the convoy. Four Mk. 23
torpedoes were fired at a range of 1500 yards, track 108 Starboard,
gyros near zero, depth 6 feet. All torpedoes missed the target
fired at by running under, but one torpedo hit a destroyer escort
on the far side of the target, causing him to sink with his depth
charges exploding.

- 1 -

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FIVE

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

3 December 1944.

— page 237 —
FB5-45/A16-3
Serial: 0132
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FIVE
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

3 December 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of War Patrol No. SIX.

— page 238 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR 11/hls
Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
6 December 1944.

FC5-4/A16-3

Serial 0518

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
USS RATON Report of
Sixth War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270) - Report of Sixth War
Patrol.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the
Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FIVE.

2. The Commanding Officer, officers, and crew of
the U.S.S. RATON are heartily congratulated upon completion of
a very outstanding patrol, resulting in devastating damage to
the enemy.

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

SUNK DAMAGED
1 - AP-AK(EU), 10,000 tons 1 - AK(EU) 5,900
1 - AK(EC); 8,200 tons 1 - AK(EU) 5,900
1 - AK(EU); 7,500 tons 1 - CA(EC) 8,500
1 - AK(EU); 7,500 tons Total
1 - DT(EC); 1,500 tons Damaged 20,300
1 - AK(EC); 7,500 tons
1 - AK(C); 7,500 tons
1 - AK(C); 7,500 tons
Total Sunk 57,200 tons

Total Sunk or Damaged, 77,500 tons

[SIGNATURE: W. V. O'Regan]
W. V. O'REGAN.

— page 239 —
FF12-10/A16-3(15) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET 1d
Serial 02766 Care of Fleet Post Office,
10 DEC 1944 San Francisco, California,
8 December 1944.

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
Serial 02766 of DESTROYED PRIOR TO
Sixth War Patrol. ENTERING PATROL AREA.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 600
U.S.S. RATON - SIXTH 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. RATON (SS280) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
(6 October to 1 December 1944).

1. The sixth war patrol of the RATON was conducted in
the South China Sea areas. The RATON was a member of two different
coordinated attack groups of three submarines each.

2. In seven aggressive attacks the RATON fired forty
torpedoes and made twenty hits. Eight ships were known to be sunk,
one more was probably sunk, and two were damaged. The series of
attacks made on a nine ship convoy with four escorts on the night
of 16-17 October was particularly outstanding. In these attacks,
all made on the surface, five ships were sunk and one probably sunk
and one damaged. This convoy was practically eliminated in four
hours. Another series of attacks on the night of 14 November agains
a four ship convoy with three escorts cost the enemy three more ship
These attacks were also night surface attacks. In addition, the
RATON succeeded in damaging a heavy cruiser.

3. Award of the Submarine Combat Insignia for this pa-
trol is authorized.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, con-
gratulates the commanding officer, officers, and crew for this ag-
gressive and most successful war patrol. The RATON is credited
with having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy:

S U N K

1 - Large Transport (EU) - 10,000 tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - Large Freighter (TAMON MARU Class)
(EC) - 8,200 tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - Large Freighter (EU) - 7,500 tons (Attack No. 1A)
1 - Large Freighter (EU) - 7,500 tons (Attack No. 1A)
1 - Destroyer Escort (EC) - 1,500 tons (Attack No. 2)
1 - Large Freighter (EU) - 7,500 tons (Attack No. 6)
1 - Large Freighter (EU) - 7,500 tons (Attack No. 6)
1 - Large Freighter (EU) - 7,500 tons (Attack No. 7)

TOTAL SUNK - 57,200 tons

- 1 -

— page 240 —
FF12-10/A16-3(15) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial, 02766

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
RATON Report of
Sixth War Patrol.

COL SUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 600
U.S.S. RATON - SIXTH WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS260) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
(6 October to 1 December 1944).
T

— page 243 —
C-1-A-7

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. RATON (SS270), Report of War Patrol Number Seven.

(B) HULL

1. Enlarged and rearranged C.T., moved SJ mast to after part of
   shear structure. Removed SD mast from C.T. and installed SV
   tower aft of Conning Tower.
2. Installed liquidometer in safety tank.
3. Installed T-shaped molded gaskets with retaining rings in ex-
   terior hatches, doors, and induction outboard valves.
4. Replaced copper main vent piping with steel.
5. Removed air bottles from #4 F.B.T.
6. Rearranged officers' quarters for increased berthing.
7. Installed booster type air-conditioning in Control Room.
8. Substituted welded type joints for flanged joints on main induc-
   tion piping.
9. Installed radar periscope.
10. Installed hydraulic periscope and radar antenna hoists.
11. Installed connections for emergency charging of hydraulic plant
    using windlass and capstan motor and pump.
12. Altered bow plane rigging gear to provide for rigging-in set on
    15° dive.
13. Installed secondary hatches on lower ends of access trunks.
14. Installed emergency securing bolts on external hatches.
15. Outer hull plating stiffeners installed.
16. Completed bridge ballistic protection.
17. Installed steel C.T. hatch.
18. Installed LANG-SHERMAN ice cream freezer.

(C) GUNNERY

1. Modified forward tubes to accommodate MK 18 torpedoes and in-
   stalled hydrogen burning circuits and two charging panels.
2. Installed 5"/25 gun aft.
3. Installed 40 MM forward bridge platform.
4. Installed signal ejector in A.T.R.
5. Installed MK 8 TBT's except optics.
6. Installed speed halving device on TDC.
7. Installed DRT in Conning Tower.

During the Navy Yard overhaul period the following changes in offi-
cer personnel took place:

Lieutenant D. W. SENCENBAUGH, USN, relieved Lieut.-Comdr. G. W.
("H.D.") FORBES, Jr., USN, who was detached and ordered to report to ComSubDiv-282
as a Prospective Commanding Officer.

Ensign S. R. KING, USN, and Ensign L. J. AVERY, USNR, reported from
Submarine School. Ensign R. B. ENGLISH, USNR, reported from USS S-37.

- 2 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 248 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject:
U.S.S. RATON (SS27), Report of War Patrol Number Seven.

1900
Exchanged recognition signals with friendly PBM! No Japs yet!
29 April 1945
0520
Dove. SD contact 7 miles. First picked up on SJ. Probably
friendly!?
1200
Lat. - 32-50 N
Long. - 125-02 E
1900
Sighted floating mine.
1905
Sighted floating life raft. No marks or identification (square
kapok filled, mahogany trimmed).
30 April 1945
0535
Dove.

1200
Lat. - 34-58N
Long. - 122-41E

1219
Surfaced.
1230
Received information from TREPANG about contact headed in his direc-
tion.
1535
Sighted two Chinese junks. Went over and took a look at them, at
(Ship Contact #7).
1608
Alongside, about 50 yards. Apparently Chinese, innocuous so didn't
fire, Had numbers on side, #A6188A, and #7151.
1620
Pulled clear; headed for TREPANG's last posit.
1650
Sighted ship, (Ship Contact #8), as he broke through haze, dove,
went to battle stations and commenced approach. Thought he was a
little bigger than he was and so got in too close; ST radar out of
commission: Proved to be PF, UN-1 (FRIGATE) or Sub-Chaser Type, and
at
1737
Frigate, passing 300 yards ahead flying an enormous set of colors,
started to turn right into us, so went deep - to 160 feet.
1739
Pinging on short scale - we're opening at 2/3 speed.
1750
Came back up for a look- he is still back where we dove, looking!
And circling! Think he sighted us when he broke through the haze.
1807
Sighted our two sail boats again.
1810
Target disappeared in haze headed for SHANGHAI.
1815
Secured from battle stations.

-7-
ENCLOSURE (A)