U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS-251) — war patrol report SS-251_FLOUNDER.pdf

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1963
: 1969
: 1977

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

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025890
SS251/A16-3
Serial No. 018.
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
C/O Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.
9 May 1944.

DECLASSIFIED
The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251).
The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.

Via:
Official Channels.

Subject:
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251), Report of
War Patrol Number One.

Enclosure:
(A) Subject Report.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol of
this vessel conducted between the 6th and 16th
March 1944, to 9 May 1944, is subject hereof.

CARL A. JOHNSON.

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35251/A16-3
Serial No. 016.

CONTINUED BY:
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(A) PROLOGUE:

Following delivery to the United States Government by the contractor, The Electrito Boat Company, at the U.S. Submarine Base, New London, Connecticut, and the appropriate commissioning ceremonies on 29 November 1943, FLOUNDER (253) was allotted a 3 day commissioning period and a training period of 30 days duration in the New London Area. Conducted deep submergence test on 13 December 1943, 15-16 December 1943, satisfactorily completed torpedo contract trials at Newport, Rhode Island. 20-24 December 1943, held intensive approach and attack training, at night periscope, radar and sound runs, for a total of 31 approaches and 4 firing runs. 28-31 December 1943, the out on marine railway, Electric Boat Company, for repairs to emergency vent valves on No. 3 and 5 fuel ballast tanks. During this docking, an inspection of propeller shaft bearings (HICARIA, solid halves) indicated excessive swelling of the bearings so all were re-bored to .030" clearance. Degaussed by "Flash D" treatment on 1 January 1944. Sound tested 2 January 1944. Final loading 3-4 January 1944. Departed New London, Connecticut, on 5 January 1944, without escort, and arrived Cristobal, Canal Zone, on 13 January 1944. 1ad night transit of the Panama Canal to moor at Submarine Operations Base, Balboa, Canal Zone, reporting to Commander Panama Sea Frontier for final training upon arrival 14 January 1944.

15-29 January 1944, conducted intensive training in the PERIAS ISLANDS AREA, actively directed by Commander Submarine Squadron 3 and Commander Submarine Division 182. Made a total of 67 approaches, firing 14 torpedoes, during this period. Fired Short Range Practice, night gun firing of all guns and a Night Bombardment Practice. Conducted 4 hour full power run and 6 hour battery bombardment. 30 January to 3 February 1944, devoted to inspection of main engines, close- and flushing of main engine lubricating system and to loading.

4 February 1944, reported to the Commander in Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET for duty in Submarines, Southwest Pacific Force and departed Balboa, Canal Zone, for Southwest Pacific Area.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

025890

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16 March 1944

1300 L - Underway for First War Patrol in accordance with Commander Task Force 72 Operation Order S15-44, from GIII QIII Anchorage, 11/11/44, NE/ GUINEA, in company with U.S.S. DACE (SS247) and U.S.S. BACHE (DD470), at 4 engine speed, 18 knots. Fuel on board 90,808 gallons.

1532 L to 1703 L - Conducted gun firing, all calibres, for training, and made trim dive in Area "B", 11/11/44.

ENCLOSURE (A)

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1732 L - Furmado coil man with BACHE and DACE, for passage to LANGENBURG BAY, NEW GITENA. Spool of advanco 18 knots, passing to eastward of BLAKENBY and TORNABY ISLANDS.

2000 L - Slowed to 9 knots, 2/3 speed, 2 engines.

17 March 1944.

0635 L - BACHE proceeding on base course 300° (T); FLOUNDER and DACE on reverse of base course to open range for end around training runs.

0714 L - Comenced daylight end-around training run on BACHE. Initial range 17 miles.

1200 L - POSITION: Lat. 70 - 43' S. Long. 150° - 32' E.

MILES STRAIGHT: 261
TURTLE USED: 3,155

1517 L - Submerged ahead of BACHE, along estimated base course, beyond visual range and commenced approach.

1636 L - Simulated attack on BACHE, undetected, and went to 150 feet, rigged for depth charging and silent running while that vessel simulated anti-submarine attacks.

1713 L - Surfaced and opened out astern of BACHE for second end-around.

1810 L - Closing in on BACHE to radar range with deorco-sing visibility at day's end. Commenced night radar approach.

2157 L - Made night radar attack on BACHE, simulating firing 6 torpedoes from the bow nest, undetected approach, and 60 degree angle on the bow at 2,000 yards range. Opened out for another attack.

-3- ENCLOSURE (A)

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2230 L - Commenced trailing BACHE, by radar, tracking for surprise attack from astern.
: 2350 L - Following astern of BACHE, at 14 knots speed, undetected at 2000 yards range.
: 18 March 1944.
: 0003 L - As BACHE made large zig to port, swung left and simulated bow attack. Initial torpedo run 1850 yards. Not detected.
: 0113 L - Formed column with BACHE and DACE, training runs completed, on base course 298 degrees (T), speed 14 knots.
: 0200 L - Commenced zig-zag during bright moonlight, making simultaneous changes of course with BACHE.
: 0700 L - Arrived off LANGEMAK BAY, NEW GUINEA, released BACHE and proceeded to fuel jetty.
: 0758 L - Hoored alongside DACE at LANGEMAK BAY fuel jetty.
: 0850 L - Commander H.C. BRUTON, USN., Comsubdiv 82 and Commander C.C. BURLINGALE, USN., Comsubdiv 182, left the ship, temporary duty completed.
: 1000 L - U.S.S. SC 743, from Task Force 76, moored alongside and reported for duty as onward escort for FLOUNDER and DACE. Held routing conference with commanding officer.
: 1100 L - Completed fuelling, having received 8736 gallons diesel fuel oil.
: 1200 L - POSITION: LANGEMAK BAY.

MILES STEAMED: 267.
FUEL USED: 3420.

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1656 L - Underway from fuel jetty for patrol area via submarine safety lane, in company with DACE, and escorted by SC 743, speed of advance 14 knots, standard speed on 2 engines.

19 March 1944.

0140 L - In position, Lat. 50 - 00' S, Long. 1470 - 25' E, set course 3220 (T), and went ahead at 14 knots on 2 engines, steering zigzag course.

0842 L - Plane contact No. 1.

0853 L - Plane passed out of sight.

1025 L - Plane contact No. 2.

1040 L - Plane passed out of sight.

1200 L - POSITION: Lat. 30 - 03' S, Long. 1450 - 53' E.

MILES STRAIGHT: 266. FUEL USED: 3245.

1445 L - In position, Lat. 20 - 30' S, Long. 1450 - 30' E, set course 0000 (T).

1650 L - In position, Lat. 20 - 00' S, Long. 1450 - 30' E, set course 0260 (T).

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2000 L - Instruction and drill for Fire Control Party.
20 March 1944.
0300 L - In position, Lat. 00° - 00' N, Long. 146° - 30' E, set course 000° (T) to proceed to patrol station assigned by Commander Task Force 72.
0454 L - In position, Lat. 00° - 30' N, Long. 146° - 30' E, set course 270° (T).
0704 L - Made dawn submergence.
0741 L - Surfaced. Set base course 270° (T), zigzagging. Speed 14.5 knots.
1100 L - Fire Control Drill.
1200 L - POSITION: Lat. 00° - 21' N, Long. 144° - 53' E.
MILES STRAIGHT: 354.
PULSE USED: 4330.
1530 L - Fire Control Drill.
21 March 1944.
0719 L - Submerged for twilight and for training.
0824 L - Surfaced.
0841 L - Pitometer Log out of commission.
0925 L - In position, Lat. 00° - 30' N, Long. 146° - 00' E, set course 000° (T).
1100 L - Fire Control Drill.

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2025 L - Surface. 5 knots. 1356 L - Plane contact No. 3. "BETTY" - sighted by quarter-master of the watch, OKERBLOM, V.J., SUBJ. Plane was on no-threatening course when sighted but changed toward FLOUNDER almost simultaneously with sighting. Submerged to 250 feet and rigged for depth charging.

1339 L - One depth bomb explosion, not close.

1800 L - Rounded torpedoes.

2025 L - Fire Control Drill.

2050 L - Surface. Set course 000° (T), speed 18 knots to clear area. Remained submerged for the foregoing length of time because of proximity of enemy bases which would have permitted air search planes to arrive on the scene in less than an hour.

2215 L - Resumed 2 engine speed, 14.5 knots.

22 March 1944.

0708 L - Submerged for twilight and for training.

1004 L - Surface.

1200 L - POSITION: Lat. 05° - 04' N, Long. 139° - 57' E.

MILES STEAMED: 231. FUEL USED: 3075.

1254 L - Plane contact No. 4. "BETTY" (?) - sighted by quartermaster of the watch, OKERBLOM, V.J., SUBJ. Submerged to 250 feet.

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1315 L - Fire Control Party, drill.
: 550 L - Surfaced.
: 1900 L - In position, Lat. 6° - 00' N, Long. 140° - 00' E, changed course to 283° (T).
: 2158 L - Investigated radar contact made at initial range of 6 miles. By the contact had shown all the characteristics of a rain squall and finally vanished, so course and speed were resumed.
: 2242 L - POSITION: Lat. 6° - 10' N, Long. 139° - 15' E, arrived prescribed station on scouting line. In compliance with orders of Commander Task Force 72 commenced station patrol on line 0250 - 2050 (T), 45 miles each side of reference point, cruising on surface day and night as enemy patrol situation permits. Mission: destroy enemy forces and obtain early information of movements of enemy task forces.
: 23 March 1944.
: 0000 L - Maintaining station patrol.
: 0723 L - Submerged for twilight and for training.
: 0950 L - Surfaced. Resumed station patrol.
: 1200 L - POSITION: Lat. 5° - 37' N, Long. 139° - 02' E.
: MILES STEAD: 255. FUEL USED: 2300.
: 1308 L - Plane contact No. 5. Sighted by Officer of the Deck, Lieutenant R.Z. MILLIAIS, USNR. Submerged to 200 feet.

: -8- ENCLOSURE (A)

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1340 L - Fire Control drill. Training on diving stations for new officers and men. Routined torpedoes.

: 1554 L - Surfaced. Resumed station patrol.

: 24 March 1944.

0000 L - Maintaining station patrol.

0733 L - Dawn dive.

0953 L - Surfaced. Resumed station patrol.

1200 L - POSITION: Lat. 60° - 14' N, Long. 158° - 27' E.

MILES STEAMED: 263. FUEL USED: 2480.

1735 L - Plano contact No. 6. Sighted by lookout, HELLER, J.B. SL. Submerged to 200 feet.

1900 L - Fire Control drill.

2037 L - Surfaced. Resumed station patrol. Through-out the night investigated numerous small radar contact indications, none of which materialized into contacts. Weather squally.

25 March 1944.

0000 L - Maintaining station patrol.

0410 L - Pitometer log in operation, repair completed.

0722 L - Dawn dive. Routined torpedoes.

0945 L - Surfaced. Resumed station patrol.

1200 L - POSITION: Lat. 60° - 21' N, Long. 139° - 13' E.

-9- ENGLISH (A)

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0000 L - Maintaining station patrol.
: 0600 L - In compliance dispatch orders of Commander Task Force 72, ended station patrol. Taking departure from position, Lat. 50 - 40'N, Long. 138° - 56'E, set base course 210° (T) speed 14.5 knots, for now assigned patrol area.
: 0724 L - Dawn dive. Routined torpedoes.
: 1029 L - Surfaced. Resumed course and speed to now area.
: 1100 L - Set clocks back one hour to 1000 K - Zone -10 (K) time.
: 1117 K - Plane contact No. 7. "HAP", sighted by look-outs, SCHEDETZ, F., Slc, while turning in tow-ards FLOUNDER. Submerged to 200 feet, went to battle stations and rigged for depth charging which did not transpire.
: 1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 40 - 44'N, Long. 138° - 33'E.
: 1300 K - Fire Control drill.
: 1524 K - Surfaced. Resumed passage, setting base course 2350 (T), to now area.
: 2000 K - Changed base course to 160° (T).

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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27 March 1944.
0634 K - Dawn dive. Will make periscope patrol along base course this date on possibility of intercepting traffic between PALAU and HOLLANDA or MANOMART. Furthermore, it is desired to avoid sighting by aircraft at this point to insure undetected arrival in area.

1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 20 - 22' N, Long. 1350 - 58' E.
MILES STEAMED: 238. FUEL USED: 2385.

1400 K - Fire Control Drill. Ground in 600# main ballast tank master blow valve.

1944 K - Surfaced.

28 March 1944.

0636 K - Dawn dive.

0816 K - Surfaced in heavy overcast with dense rain squalls to southward. Proceeded on southerly course to selected patrol station northeast of WAIGEO ISLAND.

1135 K - SJ Radar contact bearing 210° (T), range 5.5 miles. Nothing sighted that location. Considered possible aircraft contact.

1145 K - Submerged and continued approach to WAIGEO ISLAND making periscope observations.

1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 00 - 39' N, Long. 1320 - 22' E.
MILES STEAMED: 246. FUEL USED: 3120.

2018 K - Surfaced and commenced patrol to AMSTERDAM ISLAND and across mouth of DAUPIER STRAIT to WAIGEO ISLAND. No patrols of any kind encountered.

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1143 K - Ship contact No. 1, initially made by JK Sound Operator, HAMILTON, E.E., FLC, at estimated range of 10 miles. Verified by periscope detection of masts. Initial angle on the bow of 70° P and long range warranted attempts to reach attack position. At with target bearing 1350 N, distant 13 miles, on estimated course 120° (E) at speed 10 knots, abandoned approach and resumed submerged patrol in eastern approaches to VAIGEO ISLAND, considering this as the enemy's route for westbound traffic to the north coast NEW GUINEA bases.

1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 0° 02' S, Long. 131° 33' E.

MILES STRAINED: 177. FUEL USED: 1585.

2017 K - Surfaced and proceeded on northerly courses to clear immediate area to send information of contact to SILVERSDIES, in next easterly area, and to Commander Task Force 72, with the intention of thereafter proceeding after target for morning attack.

2315 K - In position Lat. 0° 30' N, Long. 131° 26' E, set course 330° (E), to pass between AJOE and ASIA ISLAND GROUPS enroute to new station off HALMAHERA.

30 March 1944.

0704 K - In position: Lat. 10° 04' N, Long. 129° 36' E, submerged and commenced periscope patrol on

-12-

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1200 K - POSITION:  Lat. 10° 0' N, Long. 129° 23' E.
: 206. FUEL USED: 2585.
: 1610 K - Plane Contact No. 8, "RUFFE", sighted through periscope by Officer of the Deck, Lieutenant F.V. Cooper, USNR., on routine observation.
: 1611 K - Ship Contact No. 2, Periscope sighting by Officer of the Deck, Lieutenant F.V. Cooper, USNR., mast tops of one ship and smoke of another being sighted almost directly below plane reported in plane contact No. 8. Initial range estimated 7 miles, angle on the bow 90° S. By tracking determined ship's base course to be 165° (T), speed 9.5 knots. Range could not be closed and presence of air cover prevented surfacing, so at 1734 K - abandoned approach end resumed submerged patrol. It appears that the enemy's traffic to north coast NEW GUINEA passes from the north end of HALMIHERA, west of AURORA BANK, south of ORMSBEE BANK, along north coast of WATGEO ISLAND, thence across DAMPIER STRAIT from TANJOENG MOITAFIA to MIOS SOE.
: 2030 K - Surfaced.
: 2312 K - Commenced sweep into lower North HALMIHERA SEA to and across DAJILOLO PASSAGE in search of southbound shipping along east coast of HALMIHERA.
: 31 March 1944.
: 0400 K - With MOOR ISLAND bearing 203° (T), distant 6 miles, turned northward for return to

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1038 K - In position. Lat. 10° - 03' N, Long. 132° - 27' E.
    set course 193° (T), at 4 engine speed, for
    CAPT OF GOOD HOPE vicinity to search coastwise
    shipping route.

-14- ENGLISH (A)

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1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 0° - 44' N, Long. 132° - 20' E.
MILES STEAMED: 317. 3090.
FUEL USED: 3090.
Set course 280° (T), 2 engine speed, to head for scouting area off approaches to KAOE BAY, HALMAHERA, in compliance orders of Commander Task Force 72.

1430 K - Fire Control Drill.

3 April 1944.

0420 K - Arrived position, Lat. 20 - 34' N, Long. 129° - 30' E.
and commenced surface patrol along route of search plan with axis 047° - 227° (line PALAU to HALMAHERA) through above position. Plan intended to search normal to axis for distance of 30 miles and advance southwesterly 10 miles at end of each normal leg.

0642 K - Dawn dive.

0836 K - Surfaced. Resumed surface patrol.

1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 20 - 38' N, Long. 129° - 30' E.

MILES STEAMED: 320. FUEL USED: 3405.

1450 K - Plane contact No. 9. Large patrol plane similar to PBY, but perhaps "NAVISTAR", sighted by quartermaster of the watch, HUSHING, J.L., QM3c, USNR. Submerged. Plane was on a northerly course and might have been on patrol although lack of similar contacts seems to indicate otherwise.

1758 K - Surfaced. Resumed surface patrol.

-15- ENCLOSURE (A)

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0000 K - Surface patrol along east coast of MOROTAI ISLAND.

0455 K - Sight contact No. 3, initially made by SJ radar at 9000 yards range. Tracked target which appeared to be stopped. At 0447 K - With range 4000 yards target could not be seen visually although visibility was such that a target of any size should readily have been sighted by then. At this time target commenced moving on various courses and by 0455 K - Appeared settled on course 050° (T) at speed 6 knots and showed a faint steady white light which bobbed around with quick motion further indicating small vessel. Decided this was either a small A/S vessel or a patrol spotting for aircraft so worked around to a position 6 miles ahead of him. At 0637 K - Submerged with twilight commencing, 5 miles ahead of target whose track now appeared to be 043° (T), speed 6 knots.

0717 K - Sighted small vessel on course 065° (T), distant 6500 yards. Was about 75 feet long with deck house and bridge aft, apparently diesel driven. Had high fore and main masts, with radio antenna. The slow speed of the vessel and the fact that her course was varying between 045° (T) and 100° (T) supported previous decision that she was engaged in A/S work although no armament was visible. Too small for torpedo attack. Set course to open distance before; surfacing.

1129 K - Surface. Resumed surface patrol.

1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 25° 09' N, Long. 129° 16' E.

MILES STRAINED: 254.
FUEL USED: 2275.

1300 - Set course for sweep to longitude 128° E, passing to northward of MOROTAI ISLAND.

-16- ENCLOSURE (A)

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5 April 1944.
0655 K - Dawn dive.
0909 K - Surfaced. Set course to northern part of area.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 20 - 35'N, Long. 125 - 56'E.
MILES STEAMED: 322. 2905.
FUEL USED: 6 April 1944.
0641 K - In position, Lat. 10 - 18'N, Long. 128 - 56'E, submerged.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 10 - 11'N, Long. 128 - 53'E.
MILES STEAMED: 287. 1905.
FUEL USED: 2033 K - Surfaced. Set course to clear coast and recharge batteries. Very bright moonlight, somewhat shielded by high light haze of clouds.
7 April 1944.
0000 K - Approaching Cape WATAMURA, HALAMERA, from eastward for night search of coast. Overcast has reduced moon's brilliance to within reason.
0220 K - SJ radar indicated possible ship contact, distant 8 miles, due west. Combined closing at slow speed and tracking.
0252 K - Tracking indicates speed of 0 for target. Prospect looks good although no reason appears for a ship lying, stopped, or anchored, in such an exposed location as this. Went to Battle Stations and commenced approach, feeling that it was a false chase but not daring to pass up the slightest possibility. By

ENCLOSURE (A)

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1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 000 - 59' N, Long. 1290 - 05' E.
    MILIS STEAML:
    FUEL USED: 148.880.
    Steering by auxiliary compass while master gyro under repair for bearing renewals.

: 2210 K - Set course to proceed north of HALMAHERA to station east of MORTAI STRAIT.

: 10 April 1944.
: 0547 K - In position, Lat. 010 - 50' N, Long. 1260 - 19' E.
    submerged for patrol in eastern approaches to MORTAI STRAIT.

: 1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 010 - 53' N, Long. 1280 - 14' E.
    MILIS STEAML:
    FUEL USED: 154.1115.

: 1205 K - Plane Contact No. 10. Small, single float plane similar to "RUFE". Sighted through periscope by Officer of the Deck, Lieutenant F.F. PENNEY, U.S.N. Apparently patrolling MORTAI STRAIT.

: 1309 K - Ship Contact No. 4, periscope sighting. Position: Lat. 010 - 52' N, Long. 1280 - 11.5' E.

: A-group of 4 AK's, in two columns, columns in line of bearing about 230°(R). Escorted by 3 trawler type small vessels, one ahead and one on each flank and by two sub-chaser type vessels at rear.

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1322 K - Plane Contact No. 11. Medium bomber similar to "BETTY", circling over convoy.

: 1328 K - In position, Lat. 01° - 50.5' N, Long. 128° - 10.7' E, made bow torpedo tubes ready for low-power shot. Estimated range 6,300 yards, estimated angle on the bow 150° P and estimated speed 9 knots.

: 1345 K - Target zigged away and presented 180° angle on the bow. Thereafter no reasonable firing position could be reached.

: 1430 K - Plane Contact No. 12. Two medium bomber type planes. Angle on the bow zero, distance 4 miles, elevation 3°, bearing 190° (T). No attack received.

: 1510 K - In position, Lat. 01° - 46' N, Long. 128° - 11' E, sighted red spherical buoy of about 36" diameter with red stick buoy alongside it, bearing 198° (T), distant 2000 yards. Similar to sono-buoy assembly.

: 1524 K - Passed red ball float, about 10" in diameter, close aboard.

: 2024 K - In position, Lat. 01° - 50' N, Long. 128° - 26' E, surfaced and set course to eastward.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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11 April 1944.
: 0419 K - In compliance dispatch orders of Commander Task Force 72 set southerly course, proceeding to FORD DARWIN, AUSTRALIA, for refueling.
: 0646 K - Submerged.
: 0730 K - Routined Torpedoes.
: 1000 K - Passed to operational control of Commander Task Force 71 for passage incident to refueling.
: 1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 01° 08' N, Long. 129° 08' E.
: 1209 K - Plane Contact No. 13. Small, float plane, similar to "RUFFIN", sighted by Officer of the Deck, Lieutenant F.F. PENNEY, U.S.N.
: 1339 K - Plane Contact No. 14. Small float plane, similar to "RUFFIN", sighted by Officer of the Deck, Lieutenant R.E. WILLIAMS, U.S.N.R.
: 2019 K - Surfaced.
: 2025 K - Ship Contact No. 5. Radar Contact, 3 targets, made by MARINE, S.J., RT2c. Position, Lat. 00° 49' N, Long. 125° 15' E.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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2032 K - Target course 145° (T), speed 9 knots, angle on the bow 35° S, Range to nearest target 15,000 yards.

: 2036 K - Central target showed evil eye, by relative size of radar ping, of being considerably larger than the other two. Commence tracking this target.

: 2038 K - Heard continuous pinging at rate of 7.5 seconds between pings, from starboard escort.

: 2040 K - Target course 160° (T), speed 9 knots, Range 14,1450 yards, angle on the bow 30° S. Two additional small pips, indicated fourth and fifth ships, appeared on radar screen. Disposition of ships appeared to be largest ship in center with one small ship ahead and a stern and one small ship on either flank.

: 2055 K - Target course 120° (T), speed 9 knots, angle on the bow 70° S., Range 11,400 yards.

: 2100 K - Target course 140° (T), speed 9 knots, angle on the bow 55° S., Range 10,250 yards.

: 2115 K - Made ready all bow tubes, low power.

Horizon brightening all around with approaching rise of full moon. Target group in sight, disposition as of 2040 K verified. The escorts

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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212230 K - Torpedo Attack No. 1. With target on course 140° (T), speed 9 knots, range 6600 yards, track angle 96° (S), fired tubes 3, 4,5, and 6. Ejection appeared to be normal. Position, Lat. 00° - 52' - 30" N, Long. 129° - 16' - 30" E.

: 2123 K - Set course to northward.

: 2125 K - Target and flank escorts commenced smoking heavily. Starboard escort closed target. No offensive action by escorts.

: No evidence of any hits on target. Cause of misses: excessive firing range.

: 2200 K - With range opened to 10 miles, sent report of contact to Commanders Task Forces 71 and 72. Commenced charging batteries and reloading bow tubes. Set course to trail target group.

: 2343 K - Ship Contact No. 6. Regained visual contact with previous targets, sighting two columns of smoke, bearing 130° (T), Position, Lat. 00° - 49' N, Long. 129° - 18' E.

: Commenced tracking.

: 12 Apr: 1944.

: 0000 K - Running across moonslisk to close targets. Targets under heavy rain clouds and in light rain. Target bearing 136° (T),

-23-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 32 —
2020 K - Surfaced.
: 2208 K - Passed MAYTEN ISLAND beam to port, distant 6 miles, on course 180° (T).
: 14 April 1944.
: 0015 K - ABELIAU ISLAND bearing 090° (T), distant 18 miles.
: 0643 K - Submerged.
: 1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 05° - 25' S, Long. 128° - 16' E.
: 1400 K - Fire Control Drill.
: 1937 K - Surfaced.
: 15 April 1944.
: 0707 K - Submerged.
: ROUTINED Torpedoes.
: 1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 08° - 00' S, Long. 128° - 11' E.
: 205. FUEL USED: 2690.
: 2005 K - Surfaced.
: 2110 K - LAKCI? ISLAND bearing 090° (T), distant 4 miles.
: 16 April 1944.
: 0722 K - Plane Contact No. 15. Unidentified (probably by BEAUTORT, RAAF) medium bomber. Sighted by lookout, HUILEY, J.J., FQ3c.

-25-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 33 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(B) NARRATIVE: (CONTINUED)

Submerged.

0808 K - Surfaced.

1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 11° 34' S, Long. 129° - 00' E.

MILES STEAMED: 269. FUEL USED: 3710.

1500 K - Fire Control Drill.

1646 K - Plane Contact No. 16. BEAUFORT, (RAAF) patrolling approaches to PC'D DARWIN, sighted by J.O.O.D., Ensign F.A. NCOLDRIED, U.S.N. R. Plane circled off port beam at distance of about 8 miles, while recognition signals were exchanged visually and by special equipment and then cleared vicinity. Subsequent to this contact several other planes of similar type were sighted in approaches to DARWIN, carrying out patrol duties.

1722 K - In position, Lat. 12° - 11' S, Long. 130° - 16' E,

made contact with H.M.A.S. LATROBE (Corvette), assigned escort into PORT DARWIN, and exchanged recognition signals with that vessel.

1955 K - Passed through PORT DARWIN boom defence.

2001 K - Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Section Base, PORT DARWIN, and Naval Berthing Pilot (Lieutenant, R.A.N.R.) came aboard.

2038 K - Moored, starboard side to, alongside south-east side of Boom Jetty, PORT DARWIN, AUSTRALIA.

2320 K - Reported arrival to Commanders Task Forces 71 and 72, and proposed departure and routing for return to original patrol area.

-26-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 34 —
1. U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.
(B) NARRATIVE: (CONTINUED)
1. 1800 K - POSITION: PORT DARWIN, AUSTRALIA.
   MILES STAMED: 129.
   FUEL USED: 1750.
   Having received fuel and lubricating oils, potable water and services of a welder, awaited patrol instructions from Commander Task Force 72, as directed by Commander Task Force 71.
18 April 1944.
0100 K - CAPE FOURCROY bearing 090° (T), distant 32 miles.
0644 K - Dawn dive.
0846 K - Surfaced.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 09° - 35' S, Long. 129° - 12' E.
MILES STAMED: 236.
FUEL USED: 2695.
2000 K - SERBATA ISLAND bearing 270° (T), distant 12 miles.
2309 K - DAMAR ISLAND bearing 270° (T), distant 11 miles.
19 April 1944.
0646 K - Submerged.
1000 K - Passed to operational control of Commander Task Force 72.

-27-

ENCLOSURE (A)
025890

— page 35 —
1029 K - Surfaced.
: 1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 040° - 420' S, Long. 127° - 520' E.
: MILES STRAIGHT: 329. 3905.
: FUEL USED: 1536 K - Submerged.
: 2016 K - Surfaced.
: 2248 K - MANIPA ISLAND bearing 090° (T), distant 8 miles.
: 20 April 1944.
: 0505 K - OBI MAJOR ISLAND bearing 270° (T), distant 15 miles.
: 0649 K - Submerged.
: 1026 K - Surfaced.
: 1055 K - Plane Contact No. 16. Large two-engine monoplane similar to "BETTY", sighted by commanding officer, swinging in on starboard quarter apparently for attack from astern. Altitude 1000 feet at range of 4 miles. Submerged. No bombs or charges dropped by plane. It might have been a transport not equipped for A/S attack.
: 1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 010° - 150' S, Long. 128° - 400' E.
: MILES STRAIGHT: 272. 3480.
: FUEL USED: 2014 K - Surfaced.
: 2353 K - Passed through DJAILO PASSAGE, GEBE ISLAND bearing 090° (T), distant 11 miles.

-28-

— page 36 —
21 April 1944.
0210 K - KATHERINE ISLAND bearing 270° (T), distant 10 miles.
0630 K - Arrived on station and commenced offensive reconnaissance of area 90 miles square, SW corner of area at Lat. 012° - 45' N, Long. 129° - 30' E.
Base course of patrol 045° - 225° (T).
Mission: to detect approach of enemy forces, patrolling surfaced as enemy air searches permit.
0652 K - Submerged.
1029 K - Surfaced. Commenced surface patrol.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 02° - 16' N, Long. 129° - 48' E.
MILES STEAMED: 216.
FUEL USED: 2395.
1400 K - Fire Control Drill.
22 April 1944.
0650 K - Submerged.
Routined Torpedoes.
Serviced 3J Radar.
1008 K - Surfaced.
1010 K - Plane Contact No. 18. "BETTY", sighted by quartermaster of the watch, RUSHING, J.L., 43c., at range of 7 miles, altitude 1000 feet. Submerged.
1047 K - Surfaced.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 02° - 27' N, Long. 130° - 09' E.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 37 —
2001 K - Surfaced.
23 April 1944.
0646 K - Submerged.
Routined Torpedoes.
0917 K - Surfaced.
0955 K - In position, Lat. 020° - 19' N, Long. 130° - 01' E,
passed small float made of two 50 gallon oil drums and 6" X 6" timbers surrounded by minor debris such as broken sticks and coconuts.

1033 K - Definite single pip on 3J radar range scope, bearing 130° (T), distant 13000 yards. Searched clouds and horizon by periscope and binoculars sighting nothing. Range and bearing indicated by pip varied very slightly during the period of about 3 minutes while contact was maintained. Contact was unexplained until the stern at 300 feet altitude with machine guns in operation. Submerged.

1040 K - Plane Contact No. 20, came roaring in over the stern at 300 feet altitude with machine guns in operation. Submerged.

The sky was thick with layers of small cumulus and cumulo-nimbus clouds and the plane dropped out of one of these. Before the lookout who spotted the plane clearing the cloud could give an alarm, the plane's engine could be heard by the rest of the watch.

-30-

— page 38 —
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 02° - 20' N, Long. 130° - 07' E.
MILES STEAMED: 250.
FUEL USED: 2600.

: 1510 K - Fire Control Drill.
2015 K - Surfaced.
24 April 1944.
0635 K - Submerged.
Routined Torpedoes.
1200 X - POSITION: Lat. 01° - 47' N, Long. 129° - 31' E.
MILES STEAMED: 202.
FUEL USED: 2335.
Cloud and sea conditions continued such as to render detection of aircraft, except at short distances, improbable. Surface patrol without detection by enemy air search not considered feasible.

1425 K - Fire Control Drill.
2017 K - Surfaced.
25 April 1944.
0644 K - Submerged.
1200 X - POSITION: Lat. 01° - 54' N, Long. 129° - 51' E.

-31-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 39 —
205.
: 2390.

J.S.S. FOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(B) NARRATIVE: (CONTINUED)

MILES STRAIGHT: 205.
FULL SPEED: 2390.

Although the sea has lost its glassy surface,
cloud conditions continued unfavorable for
early detection of planes. Continued submerged
patrol during daylight.

1500 K - Fire Control Drill.

2010 K - Surfaced.

26 April 1944.

0637 K - Submerged.
Routined Torpedoes.

1053 K - Surfaced. Commenced surface patrol. The sea,
calm upon surfacing, flattened out to a
glassy surface shortly thereafter. Sky very
clear overhead with only some small, cumulus
clouds to westward. Distant, thin, high haze
to eastward. Expected to be able to sight planes
before they could make sighting.

1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 020° 37' N,
Long. 130° 08' E.

MILES STRAIGHT:
FULL USED: 219.
2565.

1218 K - Plane Contact No. 2E. "PETITE" sighted by look-
out SCHNEIDER, F., Sloc., apparently obliquely
crossing astern at 5 miles range. Submerged.

1220 K - Heard one bomb explosion, loud and close aboard,
apparently to starboard and above crew's quar-
ters. Minor damage sustained consisted of both
microphone-loudspeakers out of commission, sev-
eral lamp filaments destroyed in torpedo tube
ready light panels in conning tower, forward
engine room clock stopped, half a dozen light
bulbs broken throughout the ship.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 40 —
1507 K - Plane Contact No. 22, "RUFF" sighted on periscope observation by Officer of the Deck Lieutenant R. WILLIAMS, U.S.N.R., to northward. Believe this plane flying at about 1000 feet, was making a search of area in which the above attack was made. Nothing else sighted.

Concluded that undetected day surface patrol could not be conducted in this area under the prevailing weather conditions and enemy air searches.

Set course to southwest to work off track and out of general vicinity of attack in the event of night search by enemy planes. Bright moonlight until 2236 K with clear sky would make sun search feasible.

2046 K - Surfaced.

27 April 1944.

0448 K - Officer of the Deck reported sighting the wake of a single torpedo crossing just ahead of bow on 150° Fort track. Turned stern to visual, made at any contact, radar or visual, made at any time. Believe the trail seen was that of a porpoise. Visibility conditions would not have permitted submerged submarine attack and surface attack would have been detected by radar as would probably plane torpedo attack.

0635 K - Submerged.

1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 02° - 21' N, Long. 130° - 17' E.

MILES STRAIGHT: 195.
FUEL USED: 2105.

025890

-33-
REPORTED BY: [Name]
[Date]

— page 41 —
1355 K - Fire Control Drill.
2046 K - Surfaced.
28 April 1944.
0150 K - Set course for newly assigned area, extend-ing 90 miles north and east from Latitude 0.45 - 30' N, Longitude 132° - 30' E., as ordered by Commander Tank Force 72.
0218 K - Passed TCBI ISLAND bearing 160° (T), distant 8 miles.
0620 K - Submerged.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 03° - 17' N, Long. 132° - 27' E.
MILES STRAINED: 182.
FUEL USED: 1895.
2042 K - Surfaced.
29 April 1944.
0118 K - In position, Lat. 04° - 30' N, Long. 132° - 54' E.
entered new area and resumed offensive reconnaissance.
0613 K - Submerged.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 05° - 48' N, Long. 133° - 38' E.
MILES STRAINED: 184.
FUEL USED: 2030.
1350 K - Fire Control Drill.
2002 K - Surfaced.

-34-

— page 43 —
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 040° 56' N, Long. 144° 45' E.
MILES STEAMED: 191. FUEL USED: 2435.
1415 K - Fire Control Drill.
1918 K - Surfaced.
4 May 1944.
0538 K - Submerged.
1120 K - Plane Contact No. 23, unidentified, large flying boat, sighted through periscope by officer of the Deck Lieutenant F.F. PENNEY, U.S.N.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 040° 56' N, Long. 144° 45' E.
MILES STEAMED: 2275.
1215 K - Plane Contact No. 24, unidentified medium flying boat sighted through periscope by officer of the Deck, Lieutenant F.F. PENNEY, U.S.N.
1929 K - Surfaced.
5 May 1944.
0516 K - Submerged.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 040° 45' N, Long. 147° 29' E.
MILES STEAMED: 165.
1340 K - Fire Control Drill.

-36-

— page 44 —
1930 K - Surfaced.
6 May 1944.
0518 K - Submerged.
1020 K - Surfaced.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 020° - 04' N, Long. 148° - 10' E.
MILES STEAMED: 191. FUEL USED: 2715.
1649 K - Submerged.
1915 K - Surfaced.
7 May 1944.
0544 K - In position, Lat. 010° - 25' S, Long. 148° - 15' E.
effected rendezvous with assigned escort, U.S.S. OGDEN (P139) and U.S.S. DACE (SS247) and commenced southbound passage.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 020° - 47' S, Long. 148° - 11' E.
MILES STEAMED: 344. FUEL USED: 4430.
8 May 1944.
0525 K - Released U.S.S. CGDEN and continued southbound passage in company with U.S.S. DACE.
1200 K - POSITION: Lat. 070° - 16' S, Long. 149° - 22' E.
MILES STEAMED: 348. FUEL USED: 3785.

-37-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 45 —
9 May 1944.
0600 K - In position, Lat. 10° - 08' S, Long. 151° - 27' E, effected rendezvous with assigned escort, H.M.A.S. CASTLEMAINE and continued south-bound passage.

1040 K - Effected rendezvous with H.M.A.S. ML 817 for remainder of passage to MILNE BAY, Anchorage. Released U.S.S. DACE and H.M.A.S. CASTLEMAINE to continue in accordance with their separate orders.

1200 K - POSITION: MILNE BAY, NEW GUINEA.
MILES STEAMED: 324.
FUEL USED: 3890.

1248 K - Arrived mooring of the U.S.S. MURRAY and reported to Commander Submarine Squadron Eighteen. Proceeded to sound test area south of QILL GILL Anchorage and conducted sound test as preliminary of refit.

-38-

— page 46 —
5.5. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(C) WEATHER:

In the area to the northward of the northwestern end of NEW GUINEA, and east of HAIMAHURA and MOROTAI, the weather conformed, in general, to the predications of the Sailing Directions. Winds were never stronger than moderate and calms were frequently encountered. Seas varied from glassy to moderate. During March frequent rain squalls were encountered day and night. In April the frequency of squalls during daytime fell off and seemed to increase during the nights. Barometer variations were normal. Clouds were generally cumulus, building up during late afternoon and through the night, and then diminishing during the early morning hours. From 1 to 5 May, while proceeding along latitude 50° North, between longitude 133° East and 148° East, a steady wind, force 6 to 10 knots was encountered from the eastward. Occasional rains accompanied this wind, day and night. Cloud cover varied from 1 to 5. The usual ceiling for the prevailing cumulus cloud formations encountered throughout the patrol was from 1500 to 2000 feet.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION:

On 8 April 1944, in Lat. 2-39-00 N, Long. 128-44-00 E, off the northeast tip of MOROTAI ISLAND, a set of 348° and a drift of 1.1 knots was observed. Same day a set of 335° and a drift of 1.1 knots was observed in Lat. 2-31-00 N, Long. 128-57-30 E.

On 10 April 1944, in Lat. 1-50-00 N, Long. 128-24-30 E, and in the vicinity of the southern entrance to MOROTAI STRAIT the set was observed to be 295° and the drift 1.0 knots.

On 13 April 1944, when approaching HAINPA STRAIT from the northeast, the set was 100° and the drift 1.1 knots. The set varied to 170° with a drift of 1.1 knots in the strait and at the southern approach, Lat. 4-01-30 S, Long. 126-31-00 E.

In the vicinity of the SCHILDPAD ISLANDS, Lat. 5-22-00 S, Long. 128-18-30 E., on 14 April 1944, the set was 008° and the drift 2.7 knots.

-39-

— page 47 —
2000L 6-09 S, 147-46 E. 145-36 E. 146 1.17 kts.
: 2000L 3-03 S, 145-36 E. 145-36 E. 146 0.30 "
: 2000L 0-27 N, 145-46 E. 145-36 E. 146 0.91 "
: 2000L 0-32 N, 140-19 E. 145-36 E. 146 106 0.40 "
: 2000L 1-42 N, 140-67 E. 145-36 E. 146 183 1.80 "
: 2000L 4-32 N, 139-57 E. 145-36 E. 146 250 1.00 "
: 2000L 5-46 N, 139-08 E. 145-36 E. 146 170 0.50 "
: 2000L 5-46 N, 139-16 E. 145-36 E. 146 165 2.50 "
: 2000L 5-44-N, 139-21 E. 145-36 E. 146 065 0.60 "
: 2000L 5-12 N, 138-45 E. 145-36 E. 146 090 0.15 "
: 2000K 4-10 N, 137-39 E. 145-36 E. 146 083 0.40 "
: 2000K 2-27 N, 136-06 E. 145-36 E. 146 117 0.60 "

-40

— page 48 —
2000K 3-16 N, BC Calm NW 275 1.30 kts.
135-22 E. 0 2

28 0800K 1-09 N, OR W V 246 1.40 "
132-43 E. 2 2

2000K 016-N, BC W W 078 0.7 "
132-02 E. 1 1

29 0800K 0-01 S, BC W NW 090 0.75 "
131-44 E. 1 1

2000K 0-03 S, C SW SW 069 0.50 "
131-36 E. 1 1

30 0800K 1-04 N, BC Calm VISV 127 0.20 "
129-34 E. 0 1

2000K 0-53 N, BZ N SE 180 0.50 "
129-10 E. 1 1

31 0800K 0-50 N, BC Calm Calm 0 0 "
129-21 E. 0 0

2000K 0-59 N, FO Calm Calm 070 0.50 "
129-16 E. 0 0

AFRIL 1 0800K 1-15 N, BC Calm NE 050 0.40 "
130-26 E. 0 1

2000K 1-31 N, C N NW 282 0.70 "
132-35 E. 1 1

2 2000K 1-38 N, C NW NW 150 0.75 "
131-08 E. 1 2

3 0800K 2-58 N, BC N 156 0.50 "
129-02 E. 1 1

2000K 2-25 N, BC NW NW 226 0.57 "
129-20 E. 3 2

-41-

ENCLOSURE (A)

025890

— page 49 —
2000K 2-34 N, 128-27 E.
BC NE NINE 0 0 kts.
5 2000K 0-57 N, 130-07 E.
C E 2 2 305 1.10 "
6 0800K 1-19 N, 128-55 E.
0 NE 2 196 0.50 "
7 0800K 1-47 N, 125-25 E.
0 E 2 223 0.50 "
8 2000K 2-31 N, 128-57 E.
OR NE 13 335 1.10 "
9 0800K 1-07 N, 129-09 E.
0 NE 1 2 110 0.60 "
10 2000K 1-50 N, 128-24 E.
0 N 3 295 1.00 "
11 0800K 1-19 N, 129-07 E.
0 NE 2 255 0.30 "
12 2000K 1-01 S, 129-12 E.
0 W 2 110 0.27 "
13 2000K 3-01 S, 127-32 E.
OR W 3 100 1.10 "
14 2000K 5-22 S, 128-18 E.
OR SSW SW 3 008 2.70 "
15 2000K 8-06 S, 128-15 E.
OR SW 3 310 2.50 "
16 2000K 6-02 S, 129-16 E.
BC SW 1 232 0.70 "
18 2000K 8-02 S, 129-16 E.
BC SW 1 2 232 0.70 "

-42-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 50 —
2000K 4-01 S, BC 170 1.1 kts.
19 2000K 1-27 S, BC 1 1.1 kts.
20 0800K 1-27 S, BC 264 0.2 "
21 0800K 1-51 S, 0 0 0.25 "
22 0800K 1-15 N, BC 270 1.10 "
23 0800K 2-11 N, BC 335 0.68 "
24 0800K 2-11 N, BC 050 0.50 "
25 0800K 2-05 N, Z 313 1.30 "
26 0800K 2-38 N, BZ 284 0.60 "
27 0800K 1-53 N, BC 257 1.00 "
28 0800K 2-02 N, BC 326 0.10 "
29 0800K 2-02 N, BC 000 000 "
30 0800K 2-49 N, V 338 1.20 "
31 0800K 2-54 N, B 330 0.90 "
32 0800K 2-25 N, BC 248 1.20 "
33 0800K 2-12 N, AC 303 0.50 "
34 0800K 2-43 N, BC 303 0.50 "
35 0800K 2-43 N, BC 303 0.50 "

-43-

— page 51 —
3.5. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION: (CONTINUED)

APRIL 2000 28 2000K 3-35 N, 132-15 E. BC 1 NE 2 240 0.29 kts. 035 0.70 " 090 0.42 " 064 0.40 " 174 0.40 " 170 0.80 " 259 0.60 " 313 0.50 " 073 1.10 "

MAX 2000K 4-52 N, 135-38 E. 3 NE 3 139-07 E. 3 SE 3 141-42 E. 3 NE 3 138-31 E. 3 SE 3 138-31 E. 3 SE 3 141-42 E. 3 SE

— page 53 —
1. 0642 L 30-36° S U.S. 10 miles. 30° 240 Lookout speed.
3/19 146°-19° E B-24
2. 1025 L 30-20° S U.S. 8 miles. 340° 240 Lookout speed.
3/19 146°-07° E B-24
3. 1336 L 10-37° N "BETTY" 8 miles. 045° 300 QM.
3/21 140°-00° E
4. 1254 L 5°-16° N Unident.10 miles. 045° ?
3/22 139°-57° E
5. 1308 L 5°-53° N "BETTY" 10 miles. 060° 250
3/23 139°-06° E
6. 1735 L 5°-56° N Unident. 6 miles. 270° 250
3/24 139°-14° E

Enclosure (A)
REMARKS
Maintained course and speed.
Maintained course and speed.
Submerged, at instant of sighting, the plane which bore about 300° R, and was on an almost parallel, slightly converging course, turned toward. 3 minutes after sighting heard one rather distant bomb explosion.
Submerged, apparently not sighted by plane.
Submerged, apparently not sighted by plane.
Submerged, apparently not sighted by plane which may have been a "BETTY".

— page 54 —
(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS: (CONTINUED)

| NO. | TIME   | LAT. LONG. | TYPE | INIT. RANGE | EST. CSE. & SPEED | HOW CON- TACTED | REMARKS |
|-----|||------|||||
| 7.  | 1117 K | 4°-44'N  | "HAP" | 6 miles.  | 270° 250 | Visual - Lookout | Submerged, having been sighted by the small plane which turned toward and appeared to be coming in for an attack. |
| 9.  | 1610 K | 10°04'N  | "RUFE" | 8 miles.  | Various | Visual - Periscope Submerged C.O.D. | This plane was providing air cover for a group of 2 ships, southbound, west of KATHERINE ISLAND. |
| 10. | 1450 K | 20°14'N  | "MAVIS" | 8 miles.  | 007° 200 | Visual - QM | Submerged, apparently not sighted by this large plane which, it is believed, was on a patrol mission from one of the air bases in the vicinity of KACE BAY. |
| 11. | 1205 K | 10°53'N  | "RUFE" | 5 miles.  | Various | Visual - Periscope Submerged C.O.D. | Plane was patrolling over MOROTAI STRAIT in advance of entrance of a group of surface vessels into the strait. |
| 12. | 1322 K | 10°51'N  | Unident. | 5 miles.  | Various | Visual - Periscope Submerged C.O. | A medium sized land-plane, circling, providing air cover for a group of ships passing through MOROTAI STRAIT, in addition to contact No. 10. |

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 56 —
16. 1646 K 12°-07' N "BEAUFORT" 10 miles. Various Visual - Remains of a submarine, with a 4/16 130°-11' E J.O.C.D. visual appearance of a typical WW2 submarine. This plane was sighted in approaches to FORT DARWIN swept channel. Exchanged recognition signals visually and by special equipment while plane circled in our immediate vicinity before flying clear.

17. 1055 K 10-14' S Unident. 4 miles. 3550 Visual - Submerged, having been sighted 4/20 128°-38' E (medium bomber or transport) C.O. by plane which was swinging in on starboard quarter to attack from astern. No attack.

18. 1010 K 20-16' N "BETTY" 7 miles. 0200 Visual - Submerged, detection avoided. 4/22 129°-57' E QM

19. 1608 K 20-59' N "NELL" 3 miles. 3450 Visual - Submerged, with plane coming 4/22 130°-50' E or 200 Lookout in from astern, apparently to "SALLY" attack. No attack, plane either unarmed or had material failure.

20. 1040 K 20-20' N "JAKE" 2-3 miles. 0500 Visual & Submerged. Plane suddenly 4/23 130°-03' E Hearing, dropped out of a low, close Bridge Cloud and came in overhead Watch. from astern, at altitude of 300 feet, attacking with machine guns. No bombs dropped. Plane had red and black paint job. Believed to be A/S search plane.

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 57 —
1218 K 20-36° N "PETE" 5 miles. 140° Visual - 150 Lookout
4/26 130°-07' E

22. 1507 K 20-27° N "RUFE" 3 miles. Various Visual - Periscope
4/26 130°-07' E. Submerged 0.0.D.

23. 1129 K 40-57° N Undient. 6 miles. 0100' Visual - 120 Periscope
5/4 144°-42' E Submerged 0.0.D.

24. 1215 K 40-57° N Undient. 3 miles. 1650' Visual - 140 Periscope
5/4 144°-44' E Submerged 0.0.D.

---

**Enclosure (A):**

**RICHARDS**

Submerged to avoid. Plane came in from astern and dropped one bomb, close, which caused negligible damage.

Believe this plane was conducting a follow-up search after the attack made by contact No. 21. Was circling slowly in general vicinity of that attack. Nothing else sighted.

Large, single wing flying boat at altitude of about 800 feet. Number of engines not determined. Single rudder. Flying straight course.

Medium, single wing flying boat, very similar to U.S. PBY. May have been same plane as contact No. 23, but seemed to be smaller. Flying straight course, nearly reverse of No. 23. Altitude about 800 feet.

— page 59 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(H) TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM: (CONTINUED)

POWER: Low Low Low Low.

HIT OR MISS: Miss Miss Miss Miss.

ERRATIC: NO NO NO NO.

MARK TORP. 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A

SER. NO. 39167 39827 39258 24268

MK. EXPLODER: 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5

SER. NO. 6021 7234 1867 1426

ACTUATION SET: Contact -

ACTUATION ACTUAL: None None None None

MK. WARHEAD: Mk-16 Mk-16 Mk-16 Mk-16

SER. NO. 9023 3982 8988 590

EXPLOSIVE: TNT TNT TNT TNT

FIRING INTERVAL: 8 sec. 8 sec. 8 sec. 8 sec.

TYPE SPREAD: Divergent.

SEA CONDITIONS: 2 2 2 2

OVERHAUL: U.S.S. FULTON.

REMARKS - Cause of miss extreme range, all torpedoes ran H.S.N.

-53- 025890

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 60 —
1. U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.
2. TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM:
   - U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
   - PATROL NO. 1. TITLE 0157. DATE 4/12/44.
   - LATITUDE: 0° - 24½ N, LONGITUDE: 129° - 37½ E.
   - TORPEDO DATA: DAILAGED INFLICTED:
     - Description: One target, four ascorts, initially picked up visually as smoke, approximately range 30,000 yards. Radar picked up targets at 26,650 yards. Slight overcast, good visibility.
     - Ship(s) Sunk, None.
     - Ship(s) Damaged or Probably Sunk, None.
     - Damage Determined by, None.
   - TARGET DRAFT EST. 20'. COURSE 140, SPEED 8.8 kts.
   - RANGE AT FIRING 6100 yards.
   - OWN SHIP DATA:
     - SPEED 15.3. COURSE 155. DEPTH SURFACE. ANGLE 0°.
   - FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA:
     - TYPE ATTACK: Radar, Surface Approach.
     - TUBES FIRED: Nos. 3, 4, 5, 6.
     - TRACK ANGLE: 165 P, 165 R, 165 P, 165 P.
     - GYRO ANGLE: 10°, -15°, 45°, 0°
     - DEPTH SET: 12 12 12 12
     - POWER: Low Low Low Low
     - HIT OR MISS: Miss Miss Miss Miss
   - -5k-
   - ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 61 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(H) TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM: (CONTINUED)

ERRATIC:  No  No  No  No
MK. TORPEDO:  14-3A  14-3A  14-3A  14-3A
SER. NO.   39911   39939   23794   24856
MK. EXPLOSER: 6-5   6-5    6-5    6-5.
SER. NO.   1693    11326   8137    1320
ACTUATION SET: Contact Contact Contact Contact.
ACTUATION ACTUAL: None None None None.
MK. 'MAREAD:  Mk-16  Mk-16  Mk-16  Mk-16
SER. NO.   5353   4005   4917   4712
EXPLOSIVE:  TNT  TNT  TNT  TNT
FIRING INTERVAL:  6 sec.  8 sec.  8 sec.  8 sec.
TYPE SPREAD:  Divergent.
SEA CONDITIONS:  3    3    3    3
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY:  U.S.S. FLOUNDER.
REMARKS:  Cause of miss - extreme range of target; all torpedoes ran H.S.N.

-55-
ENCLOSURE (A)
025890

— page 63 —
1. U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.
   (I) MINES:
      No mining activity was conducted.

   (J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS:
      On 10 April 1944, in position, Lat. 1°-46' N, Long. 128°-11' E., sighted, bearing 198° (T), distant 2000 yards, a spherical buoy, about 36" in diameter, with a vertical stick buoy close to it. Both painted red. This assembly was very similar to our sono buoys. The above location was a depth of water believed to prohibit buoy anchorage. It may be that in advance of the passage of a group of ships the buoy assembles may be set adrift for the purpose of detecting submarines, being recovered at some later convenient time. Shortly after sighting the above combination, a small, bright red ball buoy, about 10" in diameter was passed close aboard. No explanation is offered for the existence of this buoy.

   The passage of surface vessels in the HAI'MAHERA AREA, such as from KAOE BAY to NEW GUINEA PO'TS, via WAIGEO ISLAND is proceeded by discredit anti-submarine patrols and is generally accompanied by air coverage. The type of plane employed for this service is the "RUFE".

   It is believed that the area in the immediate vicinity of HAI'MAHERA and MOROTAI is now well covered by daily air anti-submarine searches and that these searches extend at least 200 miles from the northeast corner of HAI'MAHERA.

   General surface anti-submarine patrols were not encountered although a small craft encountered on the night of 3-4 April, southeast of MOROTAI, is considered to have been performing such duty.

   (K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGES:
      - No damage was sustained from enemy action.
      - One null defect, considered to be of design origin, was discovered after departure for the patrol. At the point where the auxiliary engine exhaust pipe passes it.

-57-
[END OF REPORT]

— page 64 —
1. U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.
(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE: (CONTINUED)

through the hull, pressure-proofing is accomplished by welding the pipe to the hull. A minute circumferential crack, about six inches long developed in what appears to be the central head of the welds. The extent, in depth, of the crack has not been determined. At no time was there any evidence of any leakage through this crack at any depths down to 300 feet. It was considered, however as being particularly vulnerable in case of heavy depth charging. Temporary repair was effected, at the Naval Section Base, PORT DARWIN, AUSTRALIA, by the addition of three over-lying circumferential beads of welding. The cause of the crack is undetermined. Perhaps the principle of construction is fundamentally unsound, there being excessive vibration transmitted to the welded joint incident to engine operation and ship's motion or perhaps the repeated shock of power operation of the super-imposed main exhaust valve results in eventual failure of the joint.

The Pitometer Log control unit was a source of concern throughout the patrol, failures being frequent and the accuracy of adjustment following repair being doubtful. The failures resulted from the inability to make water-tight the contact lever shaft seal sleeves (Part 46, Pit, Log Corp. Dr. No. 6-1B, Alt. 1). Although the repeated occurrence of this same fault reflects to a certain extent on the operating personnel every effort within the capacity of such personnel, guided by existing instructions available, was extended to make each repair permanent. In any event, each failure resulted in the temporary removal of the automatic speed setting feature from the Torpedo Data Computer. To prevent this it is recommended that each submarine be provided a spare control unit, complete, for immediate installation upon failure of an installed unit. Repair of the damaged unit can then be undertaken without haste and without effect on the T.D.C.

During the second week of the patrol, loss of vacuum was experienced in the ADM after 7, Mod. 5 Master Gyro Compass. The south rotor was particularly affected. Temporarily, vacuum was stabilized.

— page 66 —
1. U.S.S. ILLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE: (CONTINUED)

and is fitted with a collar to take up the added length between the engine flange and the securing nut. Two of these elongated bolts sheared during the patrol and were replaced. From the point of view of hours of operation he designated bolts are superior to the original type. It is to be noted that whereas with the short bolts, the shanks fractured at a point even with the securing nut, in the case of the elongated bolt, each fracture occurred at the junction of the head and shank. It is believed that a greater circumferential fillet at this point of the bolt may reduce the tendency to break at that point and increase the life of the bolt.

In general, it is considered that material perished from wear very good and that the material condition of the ship at the conclusion of the patrol is very good. It is to be noted that since commissioning this vessel has been operating continuously for five months and has cruised almost 25,000 miles.

With ordinary care on the part of operating personnel, the generation of smoke by the main engines can be kept under control. It is believed that the overcoming of this hitherto objectionable performance characteristic is a result of the installation of the expander type piston rings coupled with attention to engine control.

(L) RADIO:

Radio material functioned very satisfactorily in all respects.

Additional, late, rebroadcasts of submarine messages on the BELCONNER broadcasts are recommended. Strong enemy interference was on several occasions very effective, requiring piecing together parts of codes of two or more transmissions of the same message to get a readable decode. Late surfacing may preclude copying of first (1900 2) transmissions.

On 4 April 1944, it was necessary to transmit a message, for CTF 72, via NPG San Francisco.

-60-
PRECLASSIC (A)

— page 67 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

(I) RADIO: (CONTINUED)

Intermediates stations could not be raised. This transmission was made at night, on 8/70 KCS, and involved a transmitting range of about 6200 miles.

(M) RADAR:

In general, the performance of the radar equipment was excellent. No major derangements were experienced.

SJ radar was used almost continuously while on the surface, at night for all types of contact searching and during daylight, in attempting to detect aircraft. In the latter capacity only one definite contact was made. This was of very brief duration and was not accepted as a plane contact at once. The proof of the contact was an attack, which followed very shortly after the contact. It may be interesting to note that the attack came from astern while the contact had been obtained bearing 085° R. Contact was not made while the plane was coming in on its attack.

SD radar was used very sparingly, only when entering and leaving friendly ports. It was not used at all in, or near the patrol areas, because of its liability to detection and resultant direction finding position fixing by the enemy.

IFF equipment was used when proceeding on the surface in friendly waters where contact with friendly planes or vessels was expected. It performed perfectly.

SD material failures consisted of the following:

One - Condenser, oil filled, C-22, low impedance, 0.1 mf., 600 v., Designation DYR 601L. Case found to be leaking oil after 440 hours of operation.

One - Condenser, oil filled, C-21, 0.5 mf., 600 v., Designation DYR 6555. Found defective after 1370 hours of operation.

One - Condenser, mate, C-212, 500 mf., 500 v., Designation 9M or OM 20A4717, short-circuitued

-61-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 68 —
1. RADAR: (CONTINUED)
   - After 743 hours of operation.
   - One - Condenser, mica, C-519, .0006 mmf., 600 v.,
   - Designation 464 A, short-circuiting after
   - 1440 hours of operation.
   - Three - Vacuum tubes, 717 A, failed after respect-
   - ively 174, 397, and 738 hours of operation.
   - Three - Vacuum tubes, 6SQ7, failed after respect-
   - ively 102, 178, and 1390 hours of operation.

It is considered a matter of extreme importance to submarines that a suitable radar for aircraft detection be furnished submarines, operating in a frequency range not susceptible to detection and range finding.

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS:
   With the exception of several vacuum tube failures, considered incident to expiration of normal life, there were no casualties to sound equipment.

Operation was considered normal and satisfactory.

No unusual sound conditions were noted.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS:
   In general, weak negative gradients were encountered throughout the patrol, without pronounced density layers.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY:
   Seventy-nine officers and men were on board during this patrol.

There were no cases of communicable diseases. Only three cases reporting for medical treatment required admission to the sick list, a total of 8 sick days resulting therefrom as follows:

- Catarrhal Fever, 3 days.
- Urethritis, Acute, Non-veneereal, 3 days.
- Laceration, infected, ankle, 2 days.

-62- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 70 —
1. Detached by Bureau of Personnel for appointment to commissioned rank.
2. Transfer to tender for medical treatment.
3. Temperamental Disqualification.
4. Habitual, irremediable unlearnedness.

5. The replacements received for the above separations have in each case proven very satisfactory.

6. The man detached by orders from the Bureau of Personnel was the ship's only radio technician (RTC2). His detachment occurred as a final training in the Panama Area was completed. Fortunately a replacement from the Relief Crew of Submarine Division 162 was available in Panama at this time. This man has capably filled the important billet vacated, with the assistance of an additional RTC2 received on board just before departure for this patrol.

7. The inexperienced man assigned to the crew have at all times shown extreme interest in their duties and in becoming adept as submariners. The experienced hands have commendably aided the training of the newcomers. It is considered that the crew of this vessel will compare creditably, as to performance of duty under combat conditions, state of training and morale, with any other submarine crew.

8. It has been evident that the training received by personnel during the outfitting period, through the facilities of the Submarine School, and the New Constitution Training Pool at New London, was very helpful for indoctrinating the crew for duty on this vessel.

-64-

— page 71 —
7. The early provision of much needed additional equipment for those activities, to expand the amount and quality of instruction that they may give, is of great importance.

7. The situation as to officer personnel was less satisfactory than that of the enlisted personnel. The lack felt in this case is due to inexperience for which in turn, the overall shortage of experienced submarine officers is responsible. Service preliminarily to and on this patrol, has largely remedied this condition. Just prior to departure for the patrol two additional officers were received from Squadron 18. They have been absorbed into the permanent organization of the ship, there now being eight officers attached in addition to the commanding officer.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED:
MILNE BAY to Area, 1959 miles. 23010 gals.
Area to PORT DARWIN and return to Area, 2057 miles. 24455 gals.
In Area, 6677 miles. 66065 gals.
Area to MILNE BAY, 2112 miles. 26230 gals.

TOTALS: 12805 miles. 139760 gals.

(S) DURATION:
Days enroute to Area: 7
Days enroute refueling station & return: 9
Days in Area: 29
Days enroute to Base: 9
Days Submerged: 28

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE RETAINING:
Torpedoes  Fuel  Provisions  Personnel Factor
Number  Gallons  Days  Days
24. 35,895. 14. 7.

-65-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 72 —
1. Valuable training was conducted while enroute to LANGENACK in the form of actual enroute training on a destroyer target, followed by simulated attack and counter-measures, exercises in which the only lack of realism was that torpedoes were not fired and depth charges not released. It is realized that much time is consumed on a run of this nature, but this exercise should be provided for submarines in earlier stages of training.

2. The dropping of hand grenades by surface vessels, to simulate depth charge attacks on runs involving anti-submarine training introduces a touch of realism and is recommended for use at all training centers. The explosions also provide perfect signals for the release of air bubbles and smoke bomb markers from the submarine by which the A/S attack is evaluated.

3. The commanding officer, U.S. NAVAL SECTION BASE, FORT DARWIN, AUSTRALIA, was extremely co-operative to the fullest extent within his means in providing this vessel with everything desired. If that port is to become a regular re-fueling station for submarines, however, it is believed that an officer with previous submarine experience be stationed there as a liaison officer. He could be particularly useful in supplying information to visiting submarines of other forces then Task Force 71. He would also be valuable in effecting the interchange of information between submarines just

-66-

— page 74 —
025890
Serial 176
CONFIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
Report of First War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Division ONE EIGHTY-TWO.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN,
(2) The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol.

1. The first patrol of the FLOUNDER was conducted in the area between Palau, Halmahera and New Guinea. Twenty-nine of the total of fifty-four days were spent in the patrol area. For the first 20 days, the FLOUNDER was under operational control of Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO, refueling and repairing at Darwin being accomplished during this period. This first patrol was also the first war patrol for the commanding officer.

2. Although enemy air patrols in the area were intensive, only five contacts with surface targets were made, and of those only one was reported as opportunity for attack.

3. ATTACKS

Attack No. 1 was delivered against a group of five enemy ships on the night of 11 April 1944. Initial contact was made immediately upon surfacing that evening by S/S radar and the enemy identified as one large ship with four escorts. Four torpedoes were fired in low power, range 6600, track angle 96° starboard. No spread was used and no hits obtained.

Attack No. 2 was delivered later that night on the same target. Again four torpedoes were fired from the surface in low power, range 7250, track angle 165° port. No hits were obtained.

In neither of those attacks did FLOUNDER succeed in getting on the base course of the formation, range was 100° and in the second attack the track angle was too large to allow much hope of success. The commanding officer's decision to accept the excessive firing range was a flunced by the visibility conditions and the poor fit of the shell water.

4. Of special interest was the striking of FLOUNDER by an enemy plane on 23 April 1944, during which no damage was sustained and no bombs dropped. The attacking plane was first picked up as a ping on the S/S radar during cloudy weather. Lookouts were alerted but nothing soon until plane came in low from the storm close aboard. This suggests the possibility that

— page 75 —
025890
: USS, FLOUNDER (SS215) - Report of First War Patrol.

The plot was also equipped with radar. A total of twenty-four aircraft contacts were made, one resulting in a close depth charge as the FLOUNDER passed 90 feet causing minor damage. The commanding officer states that all planes which made a pass at FLOUNDER did so from dead astern regardless of position of the sun.

5. The excellent performance of the 35 radar, the sound and radio equipment is gratifying. The commanding officer's comments in paragraph 1 regarding the desirability of a more efficient aircraft radar for submarines are heartily concurred in.

6. The health and morale of the officers and crew and the cleanliness of the ship upon return from patrol was in an excellent state. It is regrettable that no damage was inflicted on the enemy on the first patrol, but the experience gained should pay dividends in subsequent patrols.

C. C. BURLINGAME

— page 76 —
025890
F05-13/A16-3/(11)
Serial 047
CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
First War Patrol.

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

Subjects: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of First War Patrol,
comments on.

1. The comments made by Commander Submarine Division ONE-EIGHTEEN
are concurred in.

2. The general health of the crew is very good. However, forty-c.o
men were found in need of dental work. This is an unusually large number.

3. The FLOUNDER departed on patrol around handi-capped by the lack
of qualified submarine personnel both among the enlisted men and officers.
During the patrol only eleven men were qualified. This is considered below
average. The problem of training and qualifying submarine personnel is a
continuing one and must be overcome by intensive courses of instruction. The
ratio of men qualified while on patrol should be in inverse proportion to
the number of ship contacts. Long periods of time spent in unproductive
patrolling must be utilized to the fullest extent to train and qualify the
incomparisoned personnel.

4. The material condition with the exception of the inoperative
auxiliary engine is good. All existing defects will be remedied during a
normal refit by the relief crew of Submarine Division ONE-EIGHTEEN assisted
by BURNAYE at Milano Bay, New Guinea.

— page 77 —
1/2-15(72)/A16-3/GL.
Serial 0169
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (S8251)
First War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (S8251) - Report of First War Patrol - comments on.

1. The comments made by the Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN are concurred in.

2. The First War Patrol of the FLOUNDER was made in an area in which enemy shipping is not extensive and area coverage was severely handicapped by the numerous aircraft contacts. Firing ranges used in both attacks are considered excessive, especially in view of the slow speed of the targets. Better firing position could probably have been obtained by holding fire, and keeping contact while working ahead of convoy.

3. This patrol is designated as "not successful" for purposes of award of Combat Insignia.

4. The Task Force Commander welcomes the Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the FLOUNDER upon completion of their First War Patrol, which should, through the experience gained, render the FLOUNDER a greater hazard to the enemy in her future patrols.

DISTRIBUTION:
Comlink (Advance copies - 3)
VONO (Advance copies - 2)
VOPRAV (Op-23c)
Com. 1st Flt.
Com. 2nd Flt.
Com. 3rd Flt.
Consubs 1st Flt.
Consubs 2nd Flt.
Consubs 7th Flt.
CSS-4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 and 20.
CSD-53, 81, 82, 181 and 192.
CTP-72 War Patrol Summary.
Cdr, S/S (Sub) Commander, Htl, Comn. (2)
Flt, Radar Unit, Melbourne.
ALL 33 TF-72 (May be taken to sea, but BURN CO 103 FLOUNDER passing 5° South).

F.P. HURRY,
Force Secretary.

— page 79 —
35251/A12-1
Serial 020

DECLASSIFIED
From: To:
Vie:
Subject:
Enclosure:

The Commanding Officer.
The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
(Official Channels)

U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
0/0 Fleet Office
San Francisco, Calif.

July 1944.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the second war patrol of this vessel conducted in green from
Latitudes 0° to 70-30'N, Longitudes 127° to 125° E during the period June 3, 1944 to July 11, 1944.

By: [Signature]
Date: 9/1/44
7-10-42
T. L. Stevens.

— page 80 —
35251/A12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251)

(A) PROLOGUE

May 9, 1944.

Returned from last 'Var Patrol. Tied up alongside U.S.S. BURYAL (AS-22), Milne Bay, NEW GUINEA. Began refit by tender and Relief Crew of Submarine Division 181.

May 9-23, 1944.

Refit period. Routines overhaul and refit. Cut down bridge to reduce silhouette.

May 24-26, 1944.

Loading and training period. Conducted general drills, deep dive, and fire control problems in Milne Bay, NEW GUINEA.

May 27, 1944.

Entered ARD-9 in Milne Bay and had starboard propeller, which was damaged landing alongside U.S.S. BREAK (35243), renewed.

May 28-30, 1944.

Enroute from Milne Bay to Seeadler Harbor, Manus Island, ADMIRALTY ISLANDS. Conducted training enroute consisting of night and day periscope and radar attacks; shore bombardment with four-inch gun; AA and surface firing of all other calibers; and general drills.

May 31-June 2, 1944.

Conducted three more days of training. Conducted night and day periscope and radar approaches, fired four exercise torpedoes, fired guns as suitable targets, conducted general drills.

— page 81 —
35251/A12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251)

(B) JURATIVES:
All times King (-10).

June 3, 1944.
Underway from Seeadler Harbor enroute patrol area with HMS MAGA as escort.

Escoff 1eft us.

June 4, 1944.
Underway to patrol area. Making daily dives, holding general drills, and fire control problems.

Sighted plane on parallel course, distance 6 miles he paid no attention to us. Plane contact #1.

ABK triggered, no plane sighted.

Noon Position: Lat-0-23-00S Long-142-56-00E.
Miles Steamed: 295.
Fuel Used: 2,765 gal.

June 5, 1944.
Underway to patrol area. Making daily dives, holding general drills, and conducting fire control problems.

Spotted two-engine bomber headed toward us, distance 8 miles. As ABK did not trigger and Japs could have planes in this area, submerged. Plane contact #2.

Surfaced.

Spotted aircraft headed toward us, distance 9 miles. Again ABK did not trigger, submerged. Plane contact #3.

Surfaced.

Noon Position: Lat-1-05-30N Long-138-16-30E.
Miles Steamed: 322.
Fuel Used: 3,150 gal.

— page 82 —
2200
: Enroute patrol area making daily dives, etc.
: Received assignment of new patrol area west coast of HALIAURA ISLAND.

: 2310
: SJ Radar picked up plane dead astern, range 4000 yards. ABT triggered about same time as radar contact. Plane immediately picked up visually, bright moonlight. Plane came in to 1500 yards. Exchanged visual recognition signals but plane did not seem satisfied. Circled us for about five minutes continually blinking first a green light then a fairly bright white light. Much to our relief he finally seemed satisfied and opened out to the northwest. Radar tracked him out to 12,000 yards. He looked like a Ventura in the moonlight. Plane contact #4.

: Noon Position: Lat-2-33-15N Long-133-41-30E.
: Miles Steamed: 314.
: Fuel Used: 3,915 gal.

: June 7, 1944.
: Decided to spend the day submerged in order to enter area undetected. Air strength on Halmahera is reported to have been greatly strengthened.

: 0630
: Submerged.

: 2025
: Surfaced nothing sighted all day.

: Noon Position: Lat-4-03-15N Long-129-51-00E.
: Miles Steamed: 275.
: Fuel Used: 2,760 gal.

: June 8, 1944.
: In area. Decided to patrol next few days submerged in position to observe mouth of MOROTA1 STRAIT. At night to open out so as to catch anyone making landfall in dawn.

— page 83 —
2023
: SS251/A12-1
: Serial 020
: CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
June 8, 1944. (Cont'd)
0645 Submerged. Conducting periscope patrol.
2023 Surfaced. Nothing sighted but islands all day.
0647 Submerged. Still conducting periscope patrol at
    mouth of MOROTAI STRAIT.
2027 Surfaced. Nothing sighted but smoke on island in
    late afternoon.
    Noon Position: Lat-2-05-30N Long-127-18-30E.
    Miles Steamed: 128.
    Fuel Used: 730 gal.
    June 10, 1944.
    On surface.
0423 Radar interference on SJ radar. Decided it was
    BRAM since we were fairly close to his area. Our
    position Lat-2-57N, Long-127-49E. The true bearing
    was 035° (T) and the interference the same as caused
    by our own SJ type radar and was rotating at the
    speed of our own type.
0633 Submerged for periscope patrol. Rounded torpedoes.
2022 Surfaced.
    Noon Position: Lat-2-25-00N Long-127-44-30E.
    Miles Steamed: 129.
    Fuel Used: 660 gal.
    September 4, 1944. 12:00 hours.

— page 84 —
535251/A12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. FLOUNDER (33251)

June 11, 1944.

On surface.
0619 Submerged.
1043 Sighted aircraft "Filly" on southwesterly course, distance 6 miles. He did not see us. Plane contact 5.

1400 Sighted small sailboat bearing 1350 (T), distance about five miles. He passed well clear on a westerly course.

2032 Surfaced.

Noon Position: lat-2-29-00N Long-127-43-00E.
Miles Steamed: 129.
Fuel Used: 665 gal.

June 12, 1944.

On surface.
0621 Submerged.
2031 Surfaced. Nothing sighted all day.

2355 Radar contact, bearing 0630 (T), range 13,550 yards. Started tracking. Ship contact 1.

Noon Position: lat-1-40-30N Long-127-18-30E.
Miles Steamed: 126.
Fuel Used: 885 gal.

June 13, 1944.

0000 Tracking and closing range on target. Target seemed to be on base course 180°, speed 8.5 knots. When range had closed to 6000 yards target could be seen to be a small patrol boat with high masts with two small flat craft. None of the targets were worth a torpedo so at

0104 Broke off attack. All hands were greatly disappointed at the size of the target.

— page 85 —
35251/A12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251)

June 13, 1944. (Cont'd)

0253 Picked up radar interference on starboard bow. It steadily drew aft and disappeared to pass probably the GUITARRO who was steaming through our area. Our position was Lat-2-07N, Long-127-05E and true bearing was 095° (T). The radar causing the interference was rotating at the speed of our own type.

0643 Submerged.

2027 Surfaced. Nothing sighted.

Noon Position: Lat-2-30-00N Long-127-34-45E.
Miles Steamed: 133.
Fuel Used: 765 gal.

June 14, 1944.

On surface.

0628 Submerged.

2028 Surfaced. Nothing sighted.

Noon Position: Lat-2-02-00N Long-127-15-30E.
Miles Steamed: 132.
Fuel Used: 900 gal.

June 15, 1944.

On surface.

0631 Submerged.

2029 Surfaced nothing sighted. Decided our present position was not a fruitful one so intend tomorrow to patrol off TALLAUD ISLANDS.

Noon Position: Lat-2-24-00N Long-127-41-00E.
Miles Steamed: 178.
Fuel Used: 1,635 gal.

-6-

— page 86 —
35251/112-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251)
June 16, 1944

On surface,:
0645
Submerged.
Submerged. Nothing sighted. Decided to patrol
northwest corner of area on surface for next few
days.

2315
Received new area assignment.
Noon Position: 1at-3-48-00N Long-127-01-00E.
Miles Steamed: 135.
Fuel Used : 60 gal.

June 17, 1944.
On surface proceeding to new area.

1058
Submerged.
Picked up pingings on sound gear bearing 072° (T).
Ship contact #2.

1147
Turned toward pinging.
Sighted masts of ship bearing 085°, angle on the
bow 150° starboard. Went to battle stations and
commenced approach. As range closed target was
estimated to be about 5 to 7,000 tons, similar
type to ASAKA HARU as shown on Page 114, OIH 208J
Revised, escorted by two ships similar to the
SHIMUSU Class (CII*) as shown on page 759 of
March 8, 1944 ONI weekly. Target making short
zigs on base course 220° (T), speed 11 knots.

1256
Target altered base course to 270° (T).

1309
Fired four stern tubes, range 900 yards, 90 port
tracks, gyro angles small. Four timed hits.
Hits not observed because periscope ducked after
firing. Second torpedo. The target was crowded
with Japs in Japanese Navy whites. They were all
out enjoying the sunshine and blissfully unaware
that anything was wrong, even after two torpedoes
were on their way.

- 7 -

— page 87 —
1310
Went to 320 feet to evade. There was a beautiful negative gradient at 250 feet. Escorts counter-attack was vigorous, persisted, but ineffective. Thirty depth charges were dropped and two sono bombs. One escort was pinging and the other listening. I don't think at anytime did they have us located. We evaded at two-thirds speed.

1653
Last depth charge. Pinging still could be heard astern.

1712
Came to periscope depth. All clear although pinging could still be heard.

1800
I think this ship sank. There were too many depth charges going off to hear any breaking up noises, but the last torpedo hit made a tremendous bang as if the whole ship was blowing up.

2046
Pinging faded out.

2064
Surfaced. Screws were hard on the sound gear just prior to surfacing but upon coming to radar depth and then upon surfacing nothing could be found.

| Position | Lat. | Long. |
||------|-------|
| 0625     | 35-12N | 125-45E |
| 1106     | 35-12N | 125-45E |
| 1108     | 35-12N | 125-45E |

June 18, 1944.

On surface.

0625
Submerged. Decided to spend the day submerged in order to check forward torpedoes for flooding and also to evade any aircraft search.

1106
Sighted plane (MAVIS) bearing 027° (T), distance 8 miles. Aircraft contact #6.

1108
Sighted plane (RUFE) bearing 019° (T), distance 5 miles. Both planes sounded to be searching but neither one detected us. Aircraft contact #7.

— page 88 —
2023
SS251/AL2-1
Serial 020
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. "LOUNDER" (SS251)

June 18, 1944. (Cont'd)

2032
Surfaced. Torpedoes in tubes #2 and #4 were found to be flooded.

Noon Position: Lat-6-44-30N Long-127-36-00E.
Miles Steamed: 182.
Fuel Used: 1700 gal.

June 19, 1944.

On surface.

0710
Submerged.

0815
Sighted plane bearing 220° (T), distance 8 miles. Unable to identify. Aircraft contact #8.

0827
Sighted another plane bearing 120° (T), distance 5 miles. Aircraft contact #9.

1030
Surfaced. All clear.

1250
S7 radar picked up pig moving in rapidly, range 10 miles. Submerged, did not sight plane. Aircraft contact #10.

1506
Surfaced. All clear.

1558
Another radar pig, range two miles, looked like plane. Submerged, plane was not seen. Decided we had enough plane contacts so determined to stay submerged rest of day. Aircraft contact #11.

2020
Surfaced.

Noon Position: Lat-7-25-00N Long-128-43-30E.
Miles Steamed: 229.
Fuel Used: 1780 gal.

June 20, 1944.

On surface.

0620
Submerged.

— page 91 —
2028 SURFACED. Nothing more sighted during the day.

Noon Position: Lat-05-08-30N Long-129-13-00E.
Miles Steamed: 200.
Fuel Used: 2360 gal.

June 25, 1944.

On surface.

0645 Submerged. In view of our experience of yesterday decided to patrol submerged in vicinity of TALAUD ISLANDS to catch any traffic between DAVAO and HALMAHERA ISLANDS.

— page 94 —
33251/A12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)

June 29, 1944. (Cont'd)

1702 Sighted plane "RUFF" bearing 192° (T), range 6 miles. Plane contact #16.

2038 Surfaced all clear. Patrolling in-position to intercept any convoys coming in and also any coming through KATIO ISLANDS.

2215 Received message ordering us home.

2227 Set course for home. Sorry to leave productive area.

Noon Position: Lat=5-15-00N Long=125-36-15E.
Miles Steamed: 133.
Fuel Used: 655.

June 30, 1944.

On surface.

0645 Submerged.

1820 Sighted plane "MAVIS" bearing 190° (T), distance 6 miles. He was on course 290° and passed well clear. Plane contact #17.

2030 Surfaced.

2224 SJ interference on radar bearing 073° (T).

2231 Sighted what appeared to be a submarine on opposite and parallel course range 10,000 yards. Probably BASHWA.

Noon Position: Lat=5-15-30N Long=126-48-00E.
Miles Steamed: 136.
Fuel Used: 2190.

July 1, 1944.

On surface.

0110 Got receipt for FLOUNDER serial one.

— page 95 —
0257 SJ interference on radar bearing 185°, Interference drew rapidly aft and disappeared. Probably DARTER.

0650: Submerged in order to reach SEADELER at convenient speed, also to repair cracked cylinder liner, in #1 cylinder of #2 main engine. Not the same trouble as before.

2026: Surface.

Noon Position: Lat-4-12-00N Long-129-26-15E.
Miles Stamped: 202.
Fuel Used : 2190

July 2, 1944.

On surface enroute SEADELER.

1045 Sighted B-24. Exchanged recognition signals.

1526 Sighted B-24. Exchanged recognition signals.

Noon Position: Lat-2-43-00N Long-133-29-15E.
Miles Stamped: 253.
Fuel Used : 2955.

July 3, 1944.

On surface enroute SEADELER.

Noon Position: Lat-1-13-00N Long-138-05-00E.
Miles Stamped: 323.
Fuel Used : 3680.

July 4, 1944.

On surface enroute SEADELER.

— page 96 —
35251/A12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)

July 4, 1944. (Cont'd)

Noon Position: Lat=0-30-308 Long=142-57-00E.
Miles Steamed: 346.
Fuel Used: 4015.

July 5, 1944.

On surface enroute BRISTOL, AUSTRALIA escorted by the HIAS BARCO.

0235 Made contact and joined up with the SS158.

0525 Made contact and joined up with our escort the HIAS BARCO.

1150 Moored alongside U.S.S. BRYAL (AS22). Took off 14 torpedoes. Took on fuel and fresh water.

1700 Underway enroute to BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA escorted by the HIAS BARCO.

1900 Escort departed.

Noon Position: Lat=2-02-00S Long=147-19-30E.
Miles Steamed: 288.
Fuel Used: 3426.

July 6, 1944.

On surface enroute BRISTOL.

0853 Rendezvous with HIAS STAVEL for transiting VITIAZ STRAIT.

1800 Passed through point ILB and released escort.

Noon Position: Lat=5-29-30S Long=148-14-00E.
Miles Steamed: 358.
Fuel Used: 4204.

July 7, 1944.

On surface enroute BRISTOL.

Noon Position: Lat=7-58-30S Long=151-52-30E.
Miles Steamed: 318.
Fuel Used: 4240.

- 17 -

— page 97 —
35251/112-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251)

(C) WEATHER
There were no unusual weather conditions during the patrol. The sea and wind averaged about force two. Each day and night had the frequent passing rain squalls which appears to be characteristic of this area.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION
The currents were observed to be as approximately charted. There were no unusual currents encountered. Strong currents were encountered close to MINDANAO.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
Star sights and fixes on the land were used. There were no navigational lights observed.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS
| NO. | TIME | LAT. | TYPE(S) | INITIAL RANGE | EST. SPEED | HOW CONTACTED |
|-----|------|------|||||
| 1   | 2355 | 1-53 | Small | 180         | 8.5        | R             |
|     | June | 127-00E | Patrol | 13,550       |            |               |
|     | 1146 | 6-58N | 2 escorts | 20,000       | 9.5        | JK            |
|     | 17   | 127-51E |         |              |            |               |
| 3   | 0907 | 5-26N | 3 DD's | 12,000       | 20         | JK            |
|     | 29   | 125-40E |         |              |            |               |
| 4   | 1408 | 5-13N |         | 180         | 12         | P            |
|     | 29   | 125-30E | Unk.   | 20,000       | 12         | P            |
| 5   | 1415 | 5-13N |         | 180         | 12         | JP            |
|     | 29   | 125-30E | Unk.   | 20,000       | 12         | QB            |

Remarks:
1. Small patrol type craft with two flat barges.
2. Large ABLE PETER with two SHIMUSHU CM'S as escorts.

— page 99 —
3. Three AMGIRI CLASS destroyers.
4. Unknown as could only make out the tops of masts.
5. Two sets of masts in column on either side of us.
   - Appended to be. Some sort of patrol craft.

- 19 -

— page 100 —
SS251/A12-1
Serial 020 (G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (REVISED)
ONI-249 not on board--Used OI-232.

CONTACT NUMBER:
1 June 2 June 3 June 4 June 5 June 6
Date 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Time (Zone) -10 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10
Position: Lat. 0-428.1-08N 1-22N 3-29N 2-25N 6-43N
Long. 143-138 137-135 135 135 135 135
Speed 14.5 14.5 14.5 14.3 14.3 14.3
Course 289 289 295 295 295 295
Trim 295 295 295 295 295 295
Surf Not Surf Surf Surf Per Per Per
Minutes Since Last Not Not Not Not Not Not
SD Radar Search Used Used Used Used Used Used
Number 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Type UNK Eng Eng Ventura
Probable Mission UNK Bomb. Bomb. orB24 Lily Mavis
How contacted Vis. Vis. Vis. Vis. Radar Per Per
Initial Range 6 mi. 12mi 9mi. 2mi. 6mi. 10mi.
Elevation Angle 2 3 1/8 20 4 2
Range & Relative 2mi.
Bearing of Plane 170°
When it Detected Exch. ND
S/M ND ND ND RecSig ND
(State (Beaufort 1 0 2 2 1
Sea: (Direction (Ral) NW NWW SW SW S
Visibility (Miles) 12 24 20 10 20 20
Clouds (Ht. in Ft. 30000 30000 50000 30000 20000
(Overcast 9 3 7 4 2
(Bearing (Rel) Overhead
Moon Angle 80
(Millum. 100
Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol gray.ENC(A).

- 20 -

— page 101 —
1. U.S.S. FLUNDER (SS251)
Serial 020 (G) ATROCRAFT CONTACTS (REVISED)
ONI-249 not on board--Used ONI-232.

CONFIDENTIAL

CONTACT NUMBER
7. June 18
8. June 19
9. June 20
10. June 19
11. June 20
12. June 20

Date
11/08 0815 0827 1250 1558 1201
-10 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10

Position: Lat: 6-43N 7-42N 7-42N 7-27N 7-18N 6-15N
Long: 36E 27E 27E 52E 06E 24E

Speed
2.5 2.5 2.5 14.5 14.5 14.5

Course
315 200 200 020 165 220

Trim
Per Per Per Surf Surf Surf

Minutes Since
Last SD Radar Not Not Not Not Not Not
Search Used Used Used Used Used Used

Number
1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Type
Rufe Lily Lily Unk Unk Unk 2Eng Bomb

Probable Mission
Unk Unk Unk Unk Unk Unk

How Contacted
Per Per Per Radar Radar Vis.

Initial Range
8mi. 3mi. 2mi. 1mi. 1mi.

Elevation Angle
2 1/4 1 Nk Unk 30

Range & Relative
Bearing of Plane
When it Detected
S/M ND ND ND ? ?

State (Beaufort)
Sea: f/r. (Rel) S SW SW SW SW

Visibility (Miles)
20 15 15 20 15 25

Clouds (Ht. in Ft.
20000 30000 30000 30000 15000 50000
(Overcast 2' 4' 3' 2' 2

Bearing (Rel)
Moon (Angle
(Full)

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol gray. ENC(A).

— page 102 —
SS251/A12-1
Serial 020
CONTACT NUMBER:
Date:
Time (Zone):
Position: Lat.
Long.
Speed:
Course:
Trin
Minutes Since Last
SD Radar Search:
Number:
Type:
Probable Mission:
How Contacted:
Initial Range:
Elevation Range:
Range & Relative
Bearing of Plane
When it Detected
S/M:
Sea: (Direction/Rel)
Visibility (Miles):
Height in Ft.
Clouds (overcast
Bearing, Rel)
Moon Angle
(°)Illum
Type of S/M Compared on this patrol gray:
Type of

— page 103 —
35251/A12-1 U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251)
Serial 020 (A) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (REVISED) (Cont'd)
ONI-249 not on board--Used ONI-232.

CONFIDENTIAL

CONTACT NUMBER
19
July
Date
1526
Time (Zone)
-10
Position: Lat.
2-35N
134-05E
Long.
Speed
16.5
Course
109
Trim:
Surf
Minutes Since Last
Not
SD Radar Search
Used
Number
1
Type
B-24
Probable Mission
Pat.
How Contacted
Vis.
Initial Range
7mi.
Elevation Angle
10
Range & Relative
160
Bearing of Plane
6mi.
When it Detected S/M
Ex.Rec.Sig.
(State (Beaufort
SC: (Direction (Rel)
SE:
Visibility (Miles)
18:
Height in Ft.
5000
Clouds (% Overcast
10
Bearing (Rel)
Moon(Angle
(%Illum.
Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol gray. ENCL(A).

- 23 -

— page 105 —
35-12N-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL

(U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251))

ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)
Ship Sunk: Once, 3, 5 to 7,000 tons, similar to ASAKA MARU page 114, ONI 208J Revised.

Damage Determined by: Sound, after explosion of final torpedo no further propellor boats heard.

Target Draft 20 Course 270 Speed 9.5 Range 1,000 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 5 Course 175 Depth 65 Angle 60 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Submerged periscope approach.
Tubes Fired: #7 #8 #9 #10
Tracks Angle 76°S 80°S 87°S 91°S
Gyro Angle 19R 15R 10' 10'
Depth Set 10' 10' 10' 10'
Power High High High High
Hit Hit Hit Hit
Hit or Miss Hit No No No No
Erratic(yes or no) No 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A
Mark Torpedo 40324 30330 20070 22366
Serial No. 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5
Mark Exploder 13994 12445 13933 13934
Serial No. Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Set Contact

25

— page 106 —
35251/12-1
Serial 020
CONFIDENTIAL: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251)

(H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA (Cont'd)

Tubos: Fired - #7 #8 #9 #10

Actuation Actual Contact Contact Contact Contact

Mark Warhead 16 16-1 16 16-1

Serial No. 1047 5449 5045 6385

Explosive TFX TFX TFX TFX

Firing Interval Ton seconds.

Type spread Divergent - 3L 1L 1R 3R

Sea Conditions Light chop, occasional white caps.

Overhaul activity U.S.S. BUNK LT (AS22).

— page 108 —
35-12N-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DANGER (Cont'd)

was found to be 120° from top dead center consequently 120° out of phase with respect to the camshaft.

On 1 July 1944, low and fluctuating pressures on the fresh water system of #2 main engine indicated a cracked liner. A test was conducted and water found in the unit. The liner was pulled and a 3" vertical crack 1" from the top of the liner was found. On the piston the top compression ring was stuck, the #2 piston ring was broken, clean, radial breaks. The upper half of the connecting rod bearing was pitted and replaced. The cylinder liner (dwg. no. N25035 p.e.1) and piston rings (dwg. no. N25039 p.e.5) had been in operation 1672 engines hours. The connecting rod bearing--upper half (dwg. no. N25033 p.e.5) had been in operation 380 engine hours.

The two cutout switches to the two I.C. motor generators which burned out subsequent to the bombing attack were jumped out for the remainder of the patrol.

The automatic speed regulator of #1 I.C. motor generator had the small V-bolt drive carried away. Those two items are considered minor downgments.

On the whole the machinery held up very satisfactorily on this, the FLOUNDER's second war patrol.

(1) R/DIO

Equipment in general kept up very well. Strict adherence to the shock-off lists set up by our former CRM O. H. COOK, was a big factor in prevention of casualties.

The only serious casualty was a radical change in settings on the high frequency master oscillator. The 8470 kcs. setting was 147 kcs. low. Detected after a near bomb miss, it probably was caused by the concussion. Transmitting conditions were excellent during sending of our only message, sent to FERTH on 8470 kcs.

Reception was normal, with usual Jap jamming, and periods of heavy static. Comments on frequency effective-ness are as follows:

— page 109 —
55251/.12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. FLOUNDER (55251)

(L) RADIO (Cont'd)
44.8 Good in daytime, no jamming. Used also as alternate to 8/30 at night, static usually very heavy.

4050 Soldier used, poor reception, heavy jamming.

5600 Soldier used, poor reception, light jamming.

8430 Best reception. Used almost continuously at night, and in day as alternate to 44.8, jamming heavy, but signal usually strong enough to be readable thru it.

12170 Very weak signal. Never used. Inconsequential in Navy procedure, especially as to repeating messages and correcting errors, was noted in BELLS transmissions. Repeating each message on its first transmission, and twice again on the 1100 G.C.T. schedule would ensure obtaining one readable copy thru the jamming and static. Double sending on the 1100 schedule is definitely needed, due to heavy static lasting at least an hour after surfacing. Too many messages had to be rebroken on the 1300 schedule to obtain their full content.

2880 Kcs. was manned continuously, only one trans-mission heard, too faint to copy. Search plane day frequency. 7420 Kcs. was manned daily from 21-23 June, except when BELLS reception on R&K was poor. Only one message intercepted, badly garbled from poor reception.

Interference from jamming and static prevented copying of press schedules. Lack of a ship's paper was a disappointment to all hands. Broadcast of an hour of press at about 1400 G.C.T. by some strong navy station would certainly be appreciated by submarine men.

(M) RADAR S.J-1
SJ was manned continuously at night and during heavy rain squalls, with a PPI sweep every ten minutes. Late in the patrol, while operating the PPI continuously for five minutes while repairing and adjusting it, a grinding noise was noticed in the antenna base. Also in hand training, a clattering was heard at 2000-2300 relative boaring. Being unable to find the

— page 110 —
35-12N-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)-

(M): RADAR S-1 (Cont'd)

source of trouble, we secured the PPI sweeps, except when ordered. Condensers broke down frequently. Two defective SHPI cathode ray tubes were found, sweep deflection of one being pulled upwards till tube warmed up, and intensity of the other being uncontrollable after warming up. I.F. stages picked up frequency of a faulty electric fan in the conning tower, causing background noise, which resulted in long hours of fruitless work on the I.F. circuits by the technicians in trying to locate the trouble. A.F.C. has not worked since before the last patrol. Since the SJ gets out of tune rapidly, a working. F.C. is very desirable and advantageous. SJ operation was good.

All cases of radar interference were of the type caused by other SJ radars, and occurred only when friendly submarines were reported to be close by. Sweep rate was the same as SJ. Width of bearing was about 5 degrees at maximum ranges, increasing as ranges apparently decreased. From the action of the interference, we could tell exactly what the operator was doing, whether making normal sweep, PPI sweep, or training on us. Magnetron tube type is 706A.Y.

I.F.F. was manned continuously. The A B K was definitely triggered only by friendly search planes. Challenging with our B N brought negative results. The only serious casualty was the B K going out of commission and it was replaced by the spare. The spare commenced triggering itself on the way back from patrol area.

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Ranges on screws varied greatly with water conditions, from beyond submerged visual range on J.P.-1 at S.R.N.G.N.I. ISL.ND with a 300 foot near-istothermal, to 1200 yards on J.K. during our attack, with a strong negative gradient at 210 feet. Echo ranging was picked up beyond visual range in both cases, and was loudest at 17.1 kcs. (Corrected)

- 30 -

— page 112 —
35251/12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)

(Q) PERSONNEL
A daily school of the boat was conducted for all unqualified men and officers. All hands showed a marked enthusiasm in their efforts to learn the boat. The effectiveness of the training was demonstrated during our several emergencies.

Qualified men on board at start of patrol 28
Mon qualified during patrol 22
Mon rated during patrol 16

Three men that are not shown above wore qualified during our patrol. Those men wore left in for a rest period during this patrol.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED
SEAILER HARBOR to area 1206 mi. 12,590 gal.
In area 4184 mi. 36,290 gal.
Area to SEAILER HARBOR

(S) DURATION
Days enroute to area 24
Days in area 24
Days enroute to base 20 - 4 days part of day on surface.

(T) FACTORS OF ENVIRONMENT RELINING
Torpedoes 20
Fuel 39,000 gal.
Provisions 30 days
Personnel factor days 20
This patrol was terminated by despatch orders.

— page 113 —
35251/A12-1
Serial 020

CONFIDENTIAL: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)

(U) REMARKS
The morale of the officers and crew was high. All contacts were greeted with great enthusiasm and the behavior of all hands was in keeping with the best traditions of the naval service in all emergencies.

Again it is strongly recommended that some reliable aircraft radar be installed on the boats. Lookouts will almost always sight big planes but high flying small fast planes are a definite hazard.

— page 115 —
8 01349

SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHTEEN
FC5-18/A16-3/(11)
Serial 088
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of Second War Patrol.
From: The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of Second War Patrol, comments on.

1. The second war patrol of the FLOUNDER was the first for the present commanding officer as such of a fleet boat.

2. The material condition in general and the state of cleanliness is excellent. The only material casualty of a major nature experienced during the patrol was the failure of the elastic coupling on the auxiliary engine. This is the second time this same casualty has occurred in the past three months. Fortunately the casualty occurred at the end of the patrol. The FLOUNDER will be given a normal refit by the Submarine Repair Unit, Brisbane, Australia.

3. The state of health of the personnel is excellent and morale is high.

4. The patrol was well conducted. It is noted that all six-ton enemy aircraft contacts were made in daylight in contrast with the large percentage of night contacts made by other submarines recently returned from patrol in this same area. The only contact at night was with a friendly plane in enemy waters and is the first record of any boat in this squadron exchanging recognition signals with a plane at night.

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

ELIOT H. BRYANT

— page 116 —
8 01349
FF12-15(72)/A16-3/Cl.
Serial 0C58
T'TRD NORSBENT to
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) -
Report of Second War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of Second War Patrol, Convents on.

1. The remarks of the Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN are concurred in.

2. The Second War Patrol of the FLOUNDER, conducted in the vicinity of HALMAHERA and off the southeast coast of MINDAKA, covered a period of thirty-nine days of which twenty-four were spent in the patrol areas. Area coverage was thorough and aggressive.

3. Two contacts worthy of torpedoes were made. The first was skillfully developed and resulted in sinking a medium freighter. The second contact consisted of three AUGUST class destroyers which the FLOUNDER was unable to close.

4. This patrol is designated as "Successful" for the purposes of award of Combat Insignia.

5. The Task Force Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the U.S.S. FLOUNDER for a well conducted, aggressive patrol and for having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy:

SUNK

1 Medium AK (EU) 4,000 tons

J. M. HAINES.

-1-

— page 117 —
8 01349

FFI2-15(72)/A16-3/Cl.
Serial 0258
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-L
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of Second War Patrol,
Comments on:

DISTRIBUTION:
ComInCh (Advance copies - 3)
VCNO (Advance copies - 2)
VOPNAVY (Op-23c)
Com. 1st Flt.
Com. 2nd Flt.
Com. 3rd Flt.
ComSubs. 1st Flt.
ComSubs. 2nd Flt.
ComSubs. 7th Flt.
CSS-4, 6, 8, 10, 12,
14, 16, 18 and 20.
CSD-53, 181 and 182.
ClnC, S/M School, N.L. Cnn. (2)
Fltr. Radio Unit, MMLBOURNE.
ALL SS TF-72 (May be taken to sea, but BURN
prior to departing advance base).

CO USS FLOUNDER.

F. P. HURRY,
Force Secretary.

— page 118 —
10/4/44
R. S. No. 8 01349
8 C JUL 1944

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

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of Second War Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

R. H. CRUZEN,
By direction.

— page 119 —
2ND REPORT
SS251/MK-3
Serial: 022
Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
4 October 1944.

DECLASSIFIED:
From: The Commanding Officer,
The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: The Commander Submarine Division ONE EIGHTY TWO.
The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN.
The Commander Task Force SEVENTY TWO.

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number THREE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart.

1. Enclosures (A) and (B) covering the THIRD War Patrol of this vessel conducted at southern MINDANAO and DAVAO GULF during the period 1 August to 4 October 1944, is forwarded herewith.

J. E. STEVENS.

— page 120 —
1335
Underway from Brisbane, Australia, enroute SEADLER HARBOR in company with U.S.S. FLYING FISH, U.S.S. COUGAL and HMS GASCOYNE. Commander C. C. Burlingame, U. S. Navy, aboard at 0.T.C. and training officer.

1604
Fired two test shots in-MOTION BAY, using MK XVIII torpedoes.

August 2-7, 1944
Enroute SEADLER HARBOR conducting training exercises with ships in company. At 1230, August 5, 1944. COUGAL left the formation. At 1400, August 6, 1944, Commander C. C. Burlingame transferred to the HMS GASCOYNE which then left the formation. Proceeded in company with FLYING FISH.

August 8, 1944
0540
HMAS WAGGA joined formation as escort.

1153
Moored alongside U.S.S. EUBYALE in SEADLER HARBOR, MANUS ISLAND. Fueled, loaded two torpedoes, and tender made necessary repairs. Tender co-operation was excellent.

-1-

Enclosure (A).

— page 121 —
1613 Undestroy for patrol in company with U.S.S. FLYING FISH. HMS. scouting as escort.
: 1903 Released escort.
: August 10, 1944
: Enroute patrol area in company with FLYING FISH. Making numerous divots, conducting drills and firing guns. Made approaches on and acted as target for FLYING FISH.
: Noon position: L 00-44S 143-31E
: Miles steamed: 118
: Fuel used: 2,365 Gals.

: August 11, 1944
: Enroute patrol area in company with FLYING FISH, training about same as yesterday.
: Noon position: L 00-43N 138-46E
: Miles steamed: 304.8
: Fuel used: 2,960 Gals.

: August 12, 1944
: Enroute patrol area in company with FLYING FISH, training as before. During day ported company with FLYING FISH.
: Noon position: L 02-32.2N 134E
: Miles steamed: 306.5
: Fuel used: 3,225 Gals.

: August 13, 1944
: Enroute patrol area.
: 0729 Submerged to give all hands training in all day submerged operations before the heat was on. Besides, this is the exact area in which we received a most uncomfortably close bombing on our last patrol.

-2-

Enclosure (A).

— page 122 —
2027  Surfacod.
2155  While passing north of MARUMIT ISLAND, piloted up radar interference on SN-2. This interference had a frequency of 214 Mgs. and swept around every eight and one half seconds. It did not get any louder and did not steady on us.

Noon position:  I, 4-15.2N  129-28.8E
Miles steamed:  269.5
Fuel used:    3,930 Gals.

August 14, 1944
0300  Radar interference was lost when SN-2 failed mechanically. Signal had not changed strength appreciably and period of rotation was constant.

0713  Submerged close to edge of our area.

2031  Surfacod.

Noon position:  I, 5-12.2N  127.31E
Miles steamed:  174.2
Fuel used:    1,720 Gals.

August 15, 1944
0046  Entered area.

0053  Radar indication on SN-2, getting louder.

0055  SJ pip on starboard beam at 14 miles closing rapidly, obviously a plane.

0056  Submerged. This may have been a friendly plane but there was no time for identification. Also, friendly planes carry bigger bombs. Plane contact #1. Enroute to area numerous planes had been sighted.

0234  Surfacod, all clear.

0721  Submerged to patrol east coast of MIDWAY south of CALIAN POINT.

-3-

Enclosure (A):
/

— page 123 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

August 15, 1944 (Cont'd)
1005 Sighted RUFE Plane contact #2.
1015 RUFE sighted again headed directly for periscope.
Went deep. Nothing happened.
1055 Periscope depth, all clear.
2035 Surfaced.
Noon position: L 5-50.5N 125-43.2E
Miles steamed: 119
Fuel used: 1,020 Gals.

August 16, 1944
0705 Submerged to patrol same area as yesterday.
2045 Surfaced, nothing sighted all day.
Noon position: L 4-55.3N 125-45
Miles steamed: 133.7
Fuel used: 870 Gals.

August 17, 1944
0022 Radar indication on 'SN-2.
0025 Signal on SN-2 steady as if plane radar was on
us. Signal strength increasing rapidly.
Submerged, nothing happened. Plane contact #3.
0137 Surfaced, all clear.
0700 Submerged to patrol south of SARANGANI ISLAND.
2038 Surfaced. Nothing sighted. Currents in this
area are terrific, for awhile we wore going
backwards.
Noon position: L 05-13.5N 125-25E
Miles steamed: 124.7
Fuel used: 960 Gals.

-4-

Enclosure (A).

— page 124 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

August 18, 1944

0024 Radar indication on SN-2.

0025 Indication gone.

0026 Aircraft engines heard on bridge, almost immediately plane turned on searchlight or dropped flare. (Bridge force did not stop to make sure). Submerged, nothing happened. Plane contact #4.

0206 Surfaced, all clear.

0700 Submerged to patrol east coast of MINDANAO below CALIAN POINT.

1017 Sound picked up pinging, bearing 1900 (T). When pinging was picked up, we were in a heavy rain squall. Nothing could be sighted. Maneuvered to bring true bearing of pinging constant.

1135 Squall cleared. Sighted two very small, stack aft, freighters escorted by a DE or gunboat. Angle on the bow of escort was zero. Escort on starboard bow of the small ships. As the escort was by far the biggest ship present, decided to attack him. Started approach. Target was zig-zagging radially. As range closed another very small escort was sighted on starboard quarter of the formation.

1157 Reached most favorable firing position possible due to zigs. Track was about 900 yards, gyro angles small, but range was 2000 yards. Fired four bow tubes with torpedoes set at five feet. About a minute after firing, target blew his whistle and made radical turn away. Torpedoes missed.

1159 Went deep and rigged for depth charge attack.

1210 Escort started dropping depth charges. Sixteen were dropped in all, none very close. He made a complete circle around us dropping periodically. He probably ran a toriting search curve, alternating between pinging and listening. We evaded by heading to seaward at two thirds speed (40 kt).

1235 Last depth charge.

-5-

Enclosure (A).

— page 126 —
0212 Interference louder. No answer to BN challenge. SD tracked him in from tei to eight miles. Submerged. Plane contact #7. About four minutes after submerging, about twelve distant bombs or depth charges were heard through the hull. These were much tootistant to be intended for us. Game to periscope depth in hopes that maybe our planes had started a fire on a ship somewhere about, nothing sighted.

0342 Surfaced, all clear.

0710 Submerged to patrol west coast of MINDANAO south of SARANGANI BAY.

2041 Surfaced, nothing sighted all day.

2150 Sighted a white light on BALIY ISLAND.

Noon position: L 05-20N 125-03.5E Miles steamed: 90.5 Fuel used: 805 Gals.

August 21, 1944

0708 Submerged to patrol same area as yesterday. A relief to have no aircraft contacts during the night.

2043 Surfaced, nothing sighted all day.

Noon position: L 05-43N 125-02.7E Miles steamed: 108.7 Fuel used: 1,120 Gals.

August 22, 1944

0700 Submerged to patrol same area as yesterday.

0955 Sighted smoke and masts of ship proceeded southward along the coast. Started approach.

-7-

Enclosure (A).

— page 127 —
1037 Broke off approach and I became apparent ship was too small for torpedoes and toco lso to coast for gun attack.

: 1447 Picked up smoke in SARGANNI STRAIT. Contact developed into small (1,000 ton) nondescript freighter with DE escort on port quarter and plane coverage, a JANE. Plane contact #8. This group turned and headed northward along the coast of MINDANAO. Started to close, but decided that the set up looked fishy. The freighter seemed to be stuck out ahead as bait, whenever the freighter stopped smoking the escort would give off dense clouds of white smoke. Due to the small size of the freighter and the fact that the whole set up looked like a hunter-killer group, did not attack. Ships were not zigzagging.

: 2039 Surfaood. No position: L 05-38.5N 125-13.6E Miles steered: 135.3 Fuel used: 685 Gals.

: August 23, 1944 Sighted lights of vessel which turned out to be a properly lighted ship. He was a big fellow and would have made a luscious target. We let him go. He did not see south of the SARANGANI ISLANDS.

: 0658 Submerged to patrol same area as yesterday.

: USS distance 12 miles. Plane contact #9.

: 1445 (A) Sighted unidentified plane bearing 340° (T), distance 10 miles. Plane contact #10.

: 1500 Sighted a JANE which had just passed over us at an altitude of 1000 feet. He did not see us and disappeared to the south coast. Plane contact #11.

: 1500

— page 128 —
2035
Surfaced. Decided to cross to the other side of MINDANAO tonight.
Noon position: L 05-38.5N 125-13.5E
Miles steamed: 170
Fuel used: 980 Gals.

August 24, 1944
0333 Picked up radar indication on SN-2. Plane tracked in from twelve to six miles on SD. Submerged.
Plane contact #12.

0504 Surfaced, all clear.

0630 Sighted searchlight on MINDANAO searching sky.

0708 Submerged to patrol east of MINDANAO south of CALIAN POINT.

2034 Surfaced, nothing sighted all day but one small fishing boat.

2130 Received orders to leave area sunset, August 25, 1944.
Noon position: L 05-41.5N 125-37.7E
Miles steamed: 112.3
Fuel used: 1,010 Gals.

August 25, 1944
0325 Radar indication on SN-2. Same old stuff. Signal got louder, plane closed on SD to four miles, submerged. Plane contact #12.

0432 Surfaced, all clear.

0716 Submerged to patrol same area yesterday.

2028 Surfaced. Cleared area, headed for advanced base.
Noon position: L 05-48.2N 125-40.2E
Miles steamed: 103.8
Fuel used: 940 Gals.

August 26-27, 1944
Enroute MIOS WOENDI.

— page 131 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of TITAN Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA
TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM
U.S.S. FLOUNDER
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. THREE
Time: 1130 Date: 18 August 1944 Lat. 5-42.8N Long. 125-43.8E

TORPEDO DATA - DATABASE INFLICTED
Description: Single stack Gunboat of U.S. Class, 270' overall, 1600 tons. Draft 10' (Estimated).

Ships Sunk: None
Ships Damaged or probably Sun.: None

Target Draft 10' Course 032° Speed 11.5 Range at Firing 1900.

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 3.6 Course 315° Depth 65° Angle 150° (At firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
Type Attack: Submerged, Periscope, Target making zigs up to 60°.

Tubes Fired: # 3 # 4 # 5 # 6
Track Angle: 109 110 111 111.5
Gyro Angle: 007 008 009 009.5
Depth Set: 5' 5' 5' 5'
Power: High High High High
Hit or Miss: Miss Miss Miss Miss
Erratic: No No No No
Mark Torpedo: 23 23 23 23
Serial No: 53148 53138 52921 625
Serial No: 17071 17009 17166 17170
Actuation Set: Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual: None None None None
Mark Warhead: 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1
Serial No: 12960 12967 12993 13434
Explosive: Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval: 9 8 Sec. 8 Sec. 11 Sec.
Type Spread: 2°R 2/3°R 2/3°R 2/3°R
Sea Condition: Choppy
Overhaul Activity: Submarine Repair Unit, Navy #134.
Remarks: Target made a radical zig away shortly after #6 was fired.

-12-

Elclosure (A)

— page 132 —
1. MINES:
Not applicable.

: 2. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS:
ESCORTS
No two tactics observed. No anti submarine tactics were observed. It is believed that the formation sighted on August 22, 1944 was a hunter killer group. It consisted of what looked like a Q ship out ahead for bait with escort or escorts trailing along behind. This outfit did not zig zag and ships took turns making smoke.

: AIRCRAFT
Air activity was light during daylight around MINDANAO. On only three days were aircraft sighted and these were RUFES or JIKES patrolling close to the coast. The convoy we attacked did not have air coverage.

: RADAR
The only indication we were forced down by night flying radar equipped planes. These planes' radar would be picked up by the SN-2 and then the plane itself would be tracked in the SD radar. We would dive when plane got within four to six miles. All this usually happened so fast that we could never determine the frequency of the planes radar. There is a strong possibility that the planes that were forcing us down were friendly. No bombs were dropped and planes never came back the same night.

: RADAR
The only indication we were forced down by night flying radar equipped planes. These planes' radar would be picked up by the SN-2 and then the plane itself would be tracked in the SD radar. We would dive when plane got within four to six miles. All this usually happened so fast that we could never determine the frequency of the planes radar. There is a strong possibility that the planes that were forcing us down were friendly. No bombs were dropped and planes never came back the same night.

: EVASION TACTICS
After our one attack we evaded to seaward at two thirds (90 RPM). This course and speed soon carried us clear of the counter attack. Depth charges sounded some as ever.

-13-
Enclosure (a).

— page 133 —
1. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE
The only major defects in the engineering department occurred enroute from British on Manus, on #4 main engine, a Winton Model 16-278A. On August 3, 1944, fresh water was found in #9 unit. Suspecting a cracked liner the unit was dismantled. The head was undamaged although the gasket had blown out on the forward side. The liner (Dwg. No. 25036-A) had two large longitudinal cracks in upper part of cylinder on the forward side. The piston # in diameter, both piston and liner were of the original installation with 1725 engine hours on them, 24l hours since last overhaul. Upon removal the piston was found seized to the cylinder liner so that no parts could be salvaged. This required the installation of a new connecting rod and incident shingles. Repairs were effected by the ship's force underway and spares replenished from U.S.S. Euryale in Manus.

The fathometer has been out of commission since the last refit. It developed a two pound subsequent to removal of the head for inspection while in drydock. Inspection at Seeadler revealed the ground as being in the head itself.

The LMC bridge speakers have been in unending source of trouble, continually flooding. Cones are leaky, and there are no spares aboard. Spare outer cones, rubber water-proof cones, voice coil assemblies, and gaskets should be carried.

(TL RADIO
The only casualty occurring was flooding of the antenna trunk. It occurred first during training exercises while enroute to Seeadler. The SD radar antenna was a satisfactory substitute while the radio antennas were out of commission. Tightening down on all gaskets failed to remedy the difficulty. Upon completion of exercises, the trunk was flushed out with fresh water and reception improved. At Seadler, the Euryale radio force reweighed gaskets, gave the trunk a pressure test and pronounced it satisfactory. On the first dive enroute to station, it flooded again. A pressure test revealed a broken insulator bowl. Bowl and its gaskets were replaced, stopping the leak, and reception improved.

-14- Enclosure (A).

— page 134 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

(I) RADIO (Cont'd)
A summary of reception follows, all times king:
44.8 Strong signal in day till interference drowned it out at about 1600.
1050 Seldom heard.
5600 Somewhat stronger signal than 8430 Kos, between 0400-0700.
8430 Strong signal, except between 0400-1100, when fading was pronounced. Some Jap jamming heard.
12,170 Good signal in day, used while 8430 Kos. broadcast was secured.
16,410 Seldom heard.

Our only transmission, on 8470, was received by VHM, Coonawarra, signal strength about 3.

(M) RADAR
During refit period at Brisbane, keying device for SJ radar, rheostat speed control for SJ antenna training motor and new leaf type reflector for SJ radar were installed. Keying device also installed on SD radar. SN-2 type (radar) receiver was installed in control room.

Second day out of Brisbane, SJ magnetron failed, probably caused by keying the radar. Completed retuning SJ at Manus, working beautifully, tracked flying Fish to 12,500, picked up bomber at 18,000, performed very well, hospital ship at 29,000 yards. SD personnel planes at 25 miles, challenged with BN, received answer.

No major casualties occurred during the patrol.

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS
The fathometer is covered in the major defects section.

A condenser, C-133A-B in the JP-1 receiver, grounded out, will require replacement from tender spares.

A chattering in the QO-JK training gears or motor has developed. While not very apparent at periscope depth, at 300 feet, it is very noisy when the head is trained rapidly. Sound conditions were good in the area.

-15-
Enclosure (A).

— page 135 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS
No layers were found. East and north of Sarangani Island, temperature drops between periscope depth and 300 feet were 1-4°. West of Balut Island the drop was 3-6°.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY
Health of the officers and crew was good on the patrol. There was no serious injuries or illnesses.

The food was of sufficient quantity and well prepared. Careful planning and supervision resulted in a well balanced diet. Vitamin tablets were available while on patrol.

Habitability was satisfactory.

(Q) PERSONNEL
(a) Men on board during patrol: 74
(b) Men qualified at sea: 44
(c) Men qualified at end of first half of patrol: 44
(d) Unqualified men making first patrol: 13
(e) Men advanced in rating during first half of patrol: 0

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED:
Brisbane to Arora (Via Seeadler) 3,205.7 Miles 39,593 Gals.
In Area 1,026.2 Miles 8,985 Gals.
Area to Mios Woendi 849.0 Miles 12,990 Gals.

(S) DURATION
Days enroute area 14 days
Days in area 11 days
Days enroute Mios Woendi 3 days
Days submerged 12 days

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel
20 88,000 30 days 20 days

-16-
Enclosure (A).

— page 136 —
1. S.S. 1. WOUNDER - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

(U) REMARKS:
Although no MK XVIII torpedoes were fired their upkeep presented no great problem.

It is felt that our own planes drove away all worth while targets. Also our own night flying planes were an added hazard in the area.

Second half of U.S.S. FLOUNDER'S THIRD War Patrol.

(A) PROLOGUE
Moored alongside U.S.S. ORION at MIOS WOENDI, DUTCH, NEW GUINEA on August 28, 1944. Refueled, reprovisioned and landed four torpedoes. Tender effected necessary repairs.

(B) NARRATIVE
All times Item (-9)
Sept. 1, 1944
1300 Underway from alongside U.S.S. ORION enroute patrol area in company with U.S.S. FLYING FISH. During afternoon conducted two submerged approaches on U.S.S. QUAPAW.

2132 Received air raid alert by radio.

2200 Sighted indications of an air raid in the area we had just left.

Sept. 2-4, 1944
Encrute patrol area in company with U.S.S. FLYING FISH. Holding drills and conducting training exercises with the FLYING FISH. Sighted numerous friendly patrol planes. 0145, September 4, entered area.

Sept. 5, 1944
0600 Submerged. Patrolled close to coast of CAFE SAN AGUSTIN, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES ISLANDS.

-17-
Enclosure (A).

— page 137 —
1954 (cont'd)
1954: Surface.
1955: Picked up radar interference on SN-2 on 150 Mgs. (800 p.r.f.), This came undoubtably from radar station on CAPE SAN AGUSTIN. This radar gave every indication of having us. We fully expected him to vector night search planes over us. No planes came, however.

2100: Radar interference was still loud and clear when it suddenly ceased and was not heard again.

Noon position: L 06-29N 126-19E
Miles steamed: 143.2
Fuel used: 1,675 Gals.

Sept. 6, 1944
0505: Picked up radar interference on SN-2 on 150 Mgs. This seemed to come from same station as last night. This time it did not steady on us but kept sweeping. Interference was heard until we dove.

0605: Submerged to patrol in same general area as yesterday.

1937: Surfaceed. No SN-2 contact tonight when surfacing.

Noon position: I 06-42.5N 126-18.5E
Miles steamed: 199.0
Fuel used: 1,510 Gals.

Sept 7, 1944
0601: Submerged to patrol area east of MINDANAO south of DAVAO GULF.

1951: Surfaceed.

Noon position: L 05-42.3N 125-41E
Miles steamed: 187.3
Fuel used: 1,565 Gals.

-18-
Enclosure (A).

— page 138 —
0621  Submerged to patrol same area as yesterday.
: 1946  Surfaced.
: 1672  Noon position: 1.05-53.5N 125-49.5E
: 1,680  Miles steamed: 1672
: 1,680  Fuel used: 1,680  Gallons.

: 0600  Arrived on life guard station.
: 0701  Submerged when two planes, the first we had sighted,
: 0720  headed directly for us. We as yet had no word that
: 0720  strike had started.

: 0800  Surfaced and spent the rest of the day life guard-
: 0800  ing. We had nothing to do so the crew of the only
: 0800  plane shot down landed well inland. Communications
: 0800  worked excellently and we had fighter cover all day.
: 0800  One portion of the bombing gave us tremendous
: 0800  satisfaction. That was the demoralising of the radar
: 0800  station on SAN AGUSTIN. The radar was not function-
: 0800  ing tonight. The strike lasted until almost sunset.

: 0600  Noon position: 1.06-23N 126-30E
: 0600  Miles steamed: 191.3
: 0600  Fuel used: 1,910  Gallons.

: 1115  On life guard station.
: 1115  Strike completed, no business for us.

: 1127  Submerged to patrol south of DAVAO GULF.

: 1127  Surfaced.
: 1127  Noon position: 1.05-53N 126 03.5E
: 1127  Miles steamed: 200.1
: 1127  Fuel used: 1,685  Gallons.

: -19-  Enclosure (A).

— page 139 —
0621 Submerged to patrol mouth of DAVAO GULF, no strike scheduled.
: 1931 Surfaced.
: (L) on position: L 05-50.5N 125-515E Miles steamed: 150.1 Fuel used: 915 Gals.

: 0600 On life guard station.
: 0800 As no planes had appeared and no radio contact been made, submarine course all day and none were heard on radio.

: 1931 Surfaced.
: (L) on position: L 06-00N 126-33.8E Miles steamed: 137.1 Fuel used: 1,820 Gals.

: 0600 On life guard station.
: 0800 No planes had appeared, no radio contact. Set course for CALIAN TORP.

: 1056 Submerged off CALIAN POINT.

: 1926 Surfaced.
: (L) on position: L 06-05.5N 125-50.8E Miles steamed: 96.7 Fuel used: 1,375 Gals.

: 0600 On life guard station.
: 0643 Many friendly planes sighted.

: 0910 Three ships which turned out to be U.S. Destroyers GRAYSON, WILSON, and FAHENHOLT, were sighted heading in from seaward. We had had no notification of their arrival.

-20- Enclosure (A).

— page 140 —
1001 The three destroyers conducted a very leisurely bombardment of GAPE SAN AGUSTIN.
: 1410 Destroyers left area.
: 1503 Received word of two rubber boats in upper end of DAVAO GULF.
: 1505 Blow everything and went ahead flank speed.
: 1723 Received word seaplanes had rescued flyers. Reversed course to clear DAVAO GULF.
: 1730 Fighter cover departed, strike completed.
: 1813 Sighted two fighter planes approaching from sea-ward. For a short interval these planes were watched with complete indifference until it was seen that the approaching planes wore ZEKES. Plane contact #1.
: 1815 Submerged. As we passed 90 feet the sound of bullets hitting the water could be heard through the hull. Where those folks had been all day and why they strafed us at 90 foot are mysteries.
: 1941 Surfaced, all clear.
: 0613 Submerged to patrol in mouth of DAVAO GULF.
: 1930 Surfaced.
: 0613 Submerged to patrol in mouth of DAVAO GULF.
: 1930

— page 141 —
16. 1944
0615 Submerged to patrol zone area as yesterday.
1924 Surfaced.
Noon position: L 06-18.5N 125-44E
Miles steamed: 185.3
Fuel used: 1,640 Gals.

Sept. 17. 1944
0558 Submerged to conduct close reconnaissance of east coast of SAN AGUSTIN. Took some pictures.
1930 Surfaced.
Noon position: L 07-11.8N 126-38.9E
Miles steamed: 159.2
Fuel used: 1,500 Gals.

Sept. 19. 1944
0545 Submerged, same area.
1931 Surfaced.
2120 Picked up steady note on 170 Mgs. on SN-2. SJ and SD picked up pip etc. eight miles. Interference and pips soon faded out. Plane contact #2.
Noon position: L 07-06.5N 126-34.1E
Miles steamed: 170.8
Fuel used: 1,860 Gals.

-22-
Enclosure (A).

— page 142 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

Sept. 20, 1944

0557 Submerged.

1923 Surfaced.

Noon position: L 06-51N 126-23.8E
Miles steamed: 174.4
Fuel used: 1,160 Gals.

Sept. 21, 1944

0542 Submerged, off east coast of MINDANAO today.

1925 Surfaced.

1957 Steady signal on SN-2, 170 Mag. Contact on SD at eight miles.

1958 Contact had closed to 6 miles, submerged. Plane contact #3.

2015 Came to radar depth. All ol-arr on 3N-2 and SD.

2035 Surfaced.

2107 Contact on SN-2, 277 Mag. (1000 p.r.f.). This seemed to be a land station. He kept sweeping and never seemed to have us. This station maybe on SARANGANI ISLAND, as the EERO reported, but we have had no indication of him before.

2130 Contact on SN-2 faded out.

Noon position: L 05-50.1N 125-41.3E
Miles steamed: 177.1
Fuel used: 1,180 Gals.

Sept. 22, 1944

0603 Submerged off east coast of SAN AGUSTIN again.

1955 Surfaced. SJ out of commission for the first time this patrol.

-23-
Enclosure (A)

— page 143 —
U.S.S. LAUNDER - Report of Third War Patrol.

Sept. 22, 1944 (Cont'd)
Noon position: L 06-41.7N 126-24.7E
Miles steamed: 149.8
Fuel used: 1,595 Gals.

Sept. 23, 1944
0015  SJ back in commission. Replaced modulation generator with spore unit.

0612  Submerged in southern end of DAVAO GULF.

1927  Surfaced.
Noon position: L 06-22N 126-03.8E
Miles steamed: 158.6
Fuel used: 1,295 Gals.

Sept. 24, 1944
0610  Submerged off SARGANII ISLAND.

1923  Surfaced, entered safety lane.

2145  Departed from area.

Sept. 25 - October 4, 1944
Enroute Brisbane via Seeadler. September 28
refueled Seeadler. October 4, arrived Brisbane.

(C) WEATHER
The weather in general was clear with occasional rain squalls. There were usually low clouds and haze over the land in the early morning and evening.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION
The currents in general conform to the current chart. A set of 074° drift 7 knots was observed in the below area.

L 3-05N 127-38E
L 1-30.3N 134-13.3E

-24-

Enclosure (A).

— page 144 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of THIRD War Patrol.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
No navigational aids were encountered.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS
None.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS
| LAT. | TIME | INITIAL COURSE | EST. | TYPE | TYPE | RANGE | SPEED | CONT. | REMARKS |
|------|------||------|------|------|-------|-------|-------||
| 1.   | 06-18N| 1814       | ZEEK| 8    |      |       |       |       |         |
| 2.   | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 3.   | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 4.   | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 5.   | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 6.   | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 7.   | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 8.   | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 9.   | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 10.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 11.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 12.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 13.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 14.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 15.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 16.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 17.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 18.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 19.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 20.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 21.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 22.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 23.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 24.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 25.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 26.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 27.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 28.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 29.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 30.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 31.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 32.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 33.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 34.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 35.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 36.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 37.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 38.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 39.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 40.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 41.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 42.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 43.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 44.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 45.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 46.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 47.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 48.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 49.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 50.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 51.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 52.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 53.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 54.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 55.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 56.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 57.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 58.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 59.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 60.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 61.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 62.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 63.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 64.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 65.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 66.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 67.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 68.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 69.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 70.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 71.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 72.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 73.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 74.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 75.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 76.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 77.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 78.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 79.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 80.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 81.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 82.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 83.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 84.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 85.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 86.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 87.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 88.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 89.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 90.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 91.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 92.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 93.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 94.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 95.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 96.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 97.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 98.  | 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 99.  | 06-32N| 1957       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |
| 100.| 06-47N| 2120       |      |       |       |       |       |       |         |

Enolosure (A).

— page 145 —
1. A CRITICAL INSTRUCTIONS (CONT'D)
2. U.S.S. TROUNDER - Report of THIRD War Patrol.
3. (K) 1A CRITICAL INSTRUCTIONS AND DAMAGE (CONT'D)
4. This vessel left Brisbane with two new compressors for the vapor stills. After two hundred hours of very settled factory operation, #1 compressor oil seals began to leak. Due to noisy operation the unit was stopped, torn down for inspection. The bearings on the forward end of the rotor shaft were gone, causing the thrust to misalign themselves and the cables chewed into an 'other, also scoring the casing. New lobes and bearings were installed. The second casing smoothed down and the lubricants shimmed for proper clearance. The unit was reinstalled and operated satisfactorily for a twenty hour test period.
5. (L) RADIO
6. No major casualties occurred. Casualties occurring during the first half of the patrol were repaired by the U.S.S. Orion radio force, except for the flatmometer.
7. The 1st bridge spackers have not flooded-out since being repaired. Repairs consisted of replacement of the rods between the inner and outer cones, corroded at their point of fixture with the rubber diaphragm, and installed an extra gasket on each side of the rubber diaphragm. However, the present voice coils, made up from assemblies for the 1MC compartment speakers, are not sensitive since they are not sensitive.
8. Though the antenna trunk was apparently did not leak after the broken starboard insulator was replaced during first part of the patrol, antenna resistance to ground remains low. Tender force found the replacement insulator cracked, and replaced it. Antenna readings then were high until submerged patrol, dropping to about 100-200,000 ohms on the port, and 10-20,000 ohms on the starboard antenna.

— page 146 —
1. RADIO (Cont'd)
On the way back from patrol, the port antenna readings rose rapidly, but the starboard antenna readings have remained low. A cheek will be made to see if the starboard insulator is again cracked. If so, the bowl seat is probably warped, and will be replaced.

Reception: All frequencies were tested before each sub sked, and a log was kept. During the day, 12,170 Kcs. was best while on station and was usually used in preference to 44 Kcs., which had heavy static. South of the Talad Islands, 44 Kcs. gave the strongest signal, and was used almost exclusively, usually with fairly strong local interference. 16,410 Kcs. was heard about 3 by 3, was not used.

During the night, 5600 Kcs. gave a slightly better signal about 4 by 4. 5600 Kcs. and was used most. 8400 Kcs. tended to fade than 8430 Kcs. and was used most. 5600 Kcs. frequently weak in the early morning, while 5600 Kcs. was slight on in the early evening. Local interference was frequent on 5600, moderate on 8430. Heavy jamming was frequently heard 8430, light jamming on 5600. 4050 Kcs. was rarely heard better than 2 by 2, was never used.

Our only transmission was finally taken by NPG, San Francisco, no local stations having answered our call, apparently due to heavy traffic. NPG heard us about 3 by 3 on 8470 Kcs.

VHF communications during lifeguard duties were very good, and little difficulty was encountered. An extension to the conning tower for the Captain's use would help speed up operations. The only antenna outlet for both friendly and antenna. Due to the close proximity of both the SD enemy planes during an air strike, it is felt that the SD mast should be available for SD operation, especially on cloudy days. Consequently, a separate antenna for VHF is greatly desired.

Addition of the transcription analyzer to our USO department was highly welcome, as record player; are in poor condition. In fact, it received such continuous operation as to greatly weaken the amplifier.

Enclosure (A).

— page 148 —
74
: 44
: 58
: 13
: 8

(U) PERSONNEL

(M) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED

Mios Woendi to Area 705 Miles 8,615 Gals.
In Area 3,381.2 Miles 35,620 Gals.
Area to Brisbane (Via Seeadler) 3,436.2 Miles 44,630 Gals.

(S) DURATION

Days enroute area from Mios Woendi 3 days
Days in Area 21 days
Days enroute Brisbane (Via Seeadler) 10 days
Days submerged. 19 days

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel

24 30,448 10 Days 5 Days

(U) REMARKS

Morale remained high on this patrol even though keen disappointment was felt over the lack of contacts. A school of the boat was held daily which met with enthusiastic response. All unqualified and new men made a determined effort to learn the boat.

The SN-2 proved to be a very valuable instrument. In all cases we were able to detect the approach of radar equipped planes and dive before they could line themselves up for a bombing run.

Nothing new can be added about life guarding. However, it is felt that if surface ships are to be sent into the life guard area, the submarine should be notified.

-29-

Enclosure (A).

— page 150 —
1-8 OCT 1944
UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET
A16-3(F-3-4/whr)
Serial 02602

CONFIDENTIAL

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
CO, U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
Conf. 1tr. serial 022 of
4 October 1944.

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

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

1. Forwarded.

Charles J. Maguire
Acting Chief of Staff

— page 151 —
1. U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
SS251/A16-3
Serial: 025
DECLASSIFIED: I-A-L

From: The Commanding Officer,
To: The Commander Submarine Division ONI EIGHTY TWO.
Via: The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTY TWO.
The Commander Task Force SEVENTY ONE.

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Fourth War Patrol of this vessel conducted in the SOUTH CHINA SEA during the period 27 October 1944 to 13 December 1944 is forwarded herewith.

J. E. STEVENS.

W. J. L. 10/16/23

— page 153 —
1944

Subject: U.S.S. FOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

November 2, 1944

Transmitted Torres Strait.

November 5, 1944

From now on, all times How (-8).

0846
Moored to U.S.S. GUAVINA alongside U.S.S. CHANTICLEER in Port Darwin, Australia. Replenished fuel, lube oil and fresh water and made voyage repairs. Received patrol orders which organized FLOUNDER, GUAVINA, and BASHAW into a coordinated search and attack group. Held conference of commanding officers of the boats. Commanding officers were briefed by Commander W. R. Laughon; U.S. Navy, whose advice and help was greatly appreciated.

November 6, 1944

1224
Departed Darwin enroute patrol area in company with U.S.S. GUAVINA. U.S.S. BASHAW departed later following different route.

November 7, 1944

0809
Submerged in order to pass east of Timor during darkness. Conducted emergency and fire control drills.

1832
Surfaced and proceeded to pass east of Timor.

2330
Entered BANDA SEA.

November 8, 1944

On surface crossing BANDA SEA. During darkness passed north of TIGER ISLANDS. Held emergency and fire control drills. Sighted many sailboats during the day, avoided them.

1800
Parted company with U.S.S. GUAVINA.

November 9, 1944

Past north of POSTILJON and PATERNOSTER ISLANDS before daylight.

-2-

Enclosure (A).

— page 155 —
0827
Observed hit about forty feet inside the bow. There was a tremendous explosion and the whole target was obscured by smoke and flame. Attempted to take a photograph, and while adjusting camera felt another hit. (Picture has not been developed). Ran up other scope twenty seconds after first hit but nothing could be seen but smoke well above the water.

0833
Another explosion. These were violent and seemed close and were thought to be aerial depth bombs, so we went to 150 feet and cleared the area. Subsequent consideration and information from the sound operators indicates that these were probably explosions inside the sinking sub because the sound operator reports that they were accompanied by breaking up noises and hissing. They may have been end of run explosions, but they seemed to close aboard for that.

0905
Returned to periscope depth, all clear.

The electric torpedoes worked beautifully. The target seemed to have no idea that anything was coming toward him, he did not change course one degree before he was hit.

This fellow was painted a light grey with a dark horizontal stripe near the top of his conning tower. There was no doubt from his silhouette that he was German. However, he did not correspond exactly to any one of our German silhouettes pictures. He only had one step abaft his conning tower on which was mounted several AA guns. His size seemed to correspond to a 750 tonner. He was flying colors, but they were too small to identify.

-4-

— page 156 —
1944
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

November 10, 1944 (Cont'd)
Submerged in order to pass HOEK MANDAR during darkness.
U.S.S. GUAVINA passed on surface.
Surfaced. Passed HOEK MANDAR during darkness.

November 12, 1944
Proceeding on surface.
U.S.S. GUAVINA surfaced about 6,000 yards astern. Exchanged information with GUAVINA by radar.
Sighted aircraft resembling Betty on opposite and parallel course, distents 8 miles, bearing 090° (T). (Aircraft Contact #1).
Aircraft turned toward, so submerged. This may have been one of our own patrol planes.
Surfaced, all clear.
Radar interference on SD radar. This got steadily stronger and as the sky was overcast, submerged. (Probable Aircraft Contact #2).
Lookout thought he saw a periscope on the port bow, distance 4,000 yards. Avoided it high speed. This so called periscope was sighted by the COD and myself. It was white and stood straight up and the COD said it did not. This could easily have been debris because the sea had been full of it all day. We are all clear to periscope, having dem-onstrated to our own radar that a submerged sub can do to one on the surface.
During Darkness entered CELEBES SEA.

-5-
Enclosure (A).

— page 157 —
0018 SN-2 contact on 150 ms. SD radar picked up plane, distance 7 miles, closing. (Aircraft Contact #3).
: 0020 Submerged.
: 0125 Surfaced, all clear.
: 1015 Lookout sighted bomber closing distance 7 miles. Submerged. (Aircraft Contact #4). Again this may have been friendly. Stayed down so as to pass through SIBUTU PASSAGE during darkness.
: 1833 Surfaced.
: 2000 SJ radar interference on SJ. Exchanged recognition signals with GUAVINA.
November 14, 1944.
: During darkness went through SIBUTU PASSAGE, all quiet.
: 0536 Submerged for patrol along SUJU ARCHIPELAGO.
: 1818 Surfaced, nothing sighted all day.
November 15, 1944.
: 0508 Submerged for patrol along coast of ZIMBOANGA, P.I.
: 1807 Surfaced.
November 16, 1944.
: 0505 Submerged to patrol along coast of PANAY ISLAND.
: 0950 Sighted unidentified plane over the coast practicing dive bombing or strafing. (Aircraft Contact #5).
: 1007 Plane landed on PANAY about one mile north of SAN TIGRE.
-6-

— page 158 —
1817
Surfaced, proceeded through MINDORO STRAIT. (APO East Pass).

November 17, 1944
0330 Entered CHINA SEA. All quiet in Strait except SJ radar interference encountered at northern end.

0515 Submerged to patrol convoy routes south from MANILA.

1814 Surfaced.

November 18, 1944
On surface proceeding to area.

November 19, 1944
0530 Submerged to patrol in DANGEROUS GROUND east of TIZZARDS REEF.

1520 Sighted U.S.S. BASHAW on surface.

1531 Surfaced and exchanged information.

November 20, 1944
Patrolling on surface in same area as yesterday.

November 21, 1944
0600 Submerged to work on main engine, gyro compass and routine torpedoes.

1620 OOD sighted two ships, range 12,000 yards, angle on the bow about forty port. (Ship Contact #3).

1622 Went to battle stations and started approach. As the range decreased, the leading ship turned out to be a 5,000 ton AK similar to the SANKO MARU and the second ship a stack aft freighter or tanker somewhat smaller. Both ships were zig-zagging.

-7-

Enclosure (A).

— page 159 —
1622
They were escorted by two ED's or CM's, both patrolling ahead on each bow of the convoy and pinging. As the approach progressed, it became evident that we were on the track of the convoy which was zigging about sixty degrees every five or six minutes. At one stage of the attack both escorts were headed directly at us, both at a range of about 2,000 yards. We had a few anxious minutes but the escorts turned clear of us, not, however, before they had speeded up and shifted to other sea pinging.

1741
Fired six bow tubes at the leading ship. Had intended firing at both ships but maneuvers of the second ship placed him in such a position that he could not be fired at before arrival of the escorts. As one escort was very close (900 yards) went deep for evasion. While going deep, heard three timed hits. This was probably an excessive number of torpedoes to fire at this ship, but during firing we had to match gyros by hand and call down angles to set, due to gyro indicator regulator failure, also we were fresh from areas of fow oontacts and when one was made the tendency was to pour everything into it.

1745
First depth charge. This was the first of twenty-one depth charges, all dropped singly, only about three were very close. There was a temperature gradient of 12 degrees and the sea was fairly rough. We evaded at 370 feet, one third speed. During evasion the rudder made a loud noise which had the boys in the after room in agony.

2035
Last depth charge.

2150
Surfaced fairly close to seacoast, all clear. Started off on convoys base course in order to get other ship.

-8-

Enclosure (A).

— page 160 —
2257
Flashes a stern which looked like gunfire followed by a terrific explosion, indicating a ship blowing up. Received word from BSHAW that she had made one hit in a ship in a convoy that corresponded exactly to ours. However, from position and time it appeared that she had attacked another convoy.

November 22, 1944
0405
No contacts. It now seemed probable that convoy had turned back, we reversed course.

0550
Submerged to work on rudder rams and patrol across convoy's path if they tried coming out today. Could not re-enter DANGEROUS GROUND because, due to bad weather we were not sure where we were.

1832
Surfaced. Nothing sighted. Rudder repaired.

2251
Made contact with BSHAW who had also been patrol-in same area. He reported no contacts today. Received word that GUAVINA had sunk a tanker at sunset today. Maybe one of the ships left from yesterday.

November 23, 1944
Patrolling on surface north of DANGEROUS GROUND, still no fix due to weather. Covering routes from DANGEROUS GROUND to MANILA.

1450
Radar contact, large pip, bearing 2850 (T), range 24,000 yards. (Ship Contact #4). Visibility at this time varying from one to five miles due to overcast and rain squalls. Sent contact report and started end around. After a few minutes became evident target was on course 0650 (T), speed 14. We were on his starboard beam.

1920
Dead ahead of target, range 13,000 yards. Weather had cleared somewhat by now so decided to wait for moon set before attacking. Target now appeared to be two pip. Only one thing funny about this target, he does not seem to be zig-zagging.

-9-

Enclosure (A).

— page 161 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

November 23, 1944 (Cont'd)
2326 Moon has set, battle stations submerged. Started in to attack, everything set.
2340 Much to our disgust, we sighted white lights on the target and shortly thereafter the red cross. To say that everyone was let down and disgusted is putting it mildly. Of course the unanimous opinion was that we should sink him anyway but we let him go, cancelled our contact report, and proceeded back toward DANGEROUS GROUND. The radar operators cannot explain the two pips. Probably two masts.

November 24, 1944
0514 Radar contact, two very small pips, bearing 326° (T), range 13,000 yards. As dawn came these were identified as two sub-chasers. Avoided on surface. (Ship Contact #5).

Patrolling north of DANGEROUS GROUND. No fix until evening twilight which showed us a long way from our D. R.

2000 Received orders to proceed to patrol station off coast of INDO CHINA.

November 25, 1944
Proceeding to new area.

1500 Submerged to make repairs on SJ radar.

1911 Surfaced, repairs completed.

November 26, 1944
0247 In communication by SJ radar with GUAVINA. Gave him patrol area and date for rendezvous.

-10-

Enclosure (A).

— page 162 —
0658 Submerged to patrol off POULO GAMBIR.
: 1848 Surfaced, nothing sighted but junk type sailboats.
: 2110 Contacted BASHWA and gave him patrol station and rendezvous date.
: 0616 Submerged to patrol area as yesterday.
: 1054 Sighted Jake (Aircraft Contact #6), flying north along the coast.
: 1130 Sighted Jake (Aircraft Contact #7) returning, flying south, still over the coast.
: 1853 Surfaced, nothing sighted all day except numerous sailboats.
: 1952 Received contact report from GUAVINA, started chase.
: 2115 Received message from GUAVINA, false contact, broke off chase.
November 28, 1944
: 0616 Submerged for patrol in same area as yesterday.
: 1250 Sighted large tanker proceeding northward close to coast, angle on the bow 900 starboard, range 12,000 yards. (Ship Contact #6). Ship had two PG's for escorts. Ship tracked at 15 knots, unable to close.
: 1510 Heard first of five loud explosions. Nothing in sight except many sailboats.
: 1857 Surfaced, headed north until received word from BASHWA no contact, headed for rendezvous.

-11-
Enclosure (A).

— page 163 —
0115
Rendezvous with BASHAW and GUAVINA, gave them patrol stations and next rendezvous, GUAVINA reported sinking AK this afternoon and being bombed by a Jake.

: 0619
Submerged to patrol off FLOOM PENINSULA.

: 0909
Picked up pinging and soon sighted PC type patrol boat bearing 0670 (T), range 6,000 yards (Ship Contact #7). He was along and not worth a torpedo. Figured he might be clearing the way for something, so after he had passed started to move out onto his track.

: 1011
Sighted top of small freighter bearing 0820 (T), angle on the bow 90° starboard, range 10,000 yards. (Ship Contact #8). There was something fishy about this fellow. He had no escort, was smoking constantly, and was not zig-zagging. He was not over 1,000 tons. I would have shot at him but I was unable to reach him. We did not know whether these ships were routed outside to get us to patrol outside or whether that was the regular shipping lane. Moved out to wait and see.

: 1130
Heard the first of about eight most peculiar noises. These sounds could be heard throughout the ship and defy description, no one on board from the commanding officer down had ever heard anything like them before. The most general description given them would not look well in an official report. They can best be described as sounding like great underwater belches.

: 1400
Last of our phenomena.

: 1857
Surfaced, nothing else sighted but the over prospect sailboats.

: 2042
Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S.

: 2042
JACK with SJ radar.

-12-
Enclosure (A).

— page 164 —
0618 Submerged to patrol in same area as yesterday.
1330 OOD sighted an Emily headed directly for the periscope, distance two miles (Aircraft Contact #8). Ducked down to 100 feet, nothing happened.
1859 Surfaced. Nothing today but sailboats.
2150 Received orders sending us to new patrol station. Started for position in scouting line.
December 1, 1944
Proceeding to now station.
0820 Sighted unidentified plane bearing 1960 (T), distance about ten miles, heading toward us (Aircraft Contact #9). Submerged.
1000 Surfaced, all clear.
1300 Received orders sending us back to old area.
1323 Submerged to hold movies.
1857 Surfaced proceeding to old area.
2030 Exchanged'calls with BASHAN and gave him patrol orders.
2100 Sent message to Commander Task Force 71.1 reporting our low fuel.
December 2, 1944
0030 Received orders to return Perth. Set course to return base.
0145 Exchanged calls with GUAVINA and told him I was returning to base.

-13-
Enclosure (A).

— page 165 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

December 3, 1944

Proceeding to base.

0005 Exchanged recognition signals with U.S.S. BAYA.

December 5, 1944

Proceeding to base.

December 6, 1944

0100 Started transit of KARIMATA STRAIT.

0234 Picked up ship on radar and sight dead ahead, range 8,100 yards. As range closed, which it did rapidly, it became evident that our contact was a submarine on opposite and parallel course. We had no radar interference from him. His silhouette resembled a British sub. We cleared as much as possible within the confines of the strait and the time available. He gave no indication that he saw us although we passed about 5,000 yards apart and there was a half moon, we did have him up moon, however.

2005 Exchanged recognition signals and information with the U.S.S. LAPON.

December 7, 1944

Enroute to base.

December 8, 1944

Enroute to base.

0050 Exchanged recognition signals with U.S.S. COBIA.

2215 Picked up what appeared to be SJ radar interference ahead on the SJ radar. Interference got stronger slowly but could not get any answer to our challenge.

-14-

Enclosure (A).

— page 166 —
2308 Increased speed to four engines for transit of LOMBOK STRAIT.
: 2323 Two radar contacts just north of strait bearing 077° (T), range 16,050 yards, avoided.
: 2328 Radar interference had now reached saturation, picked up two jibs bearing 225° (T), range 10,000 yards. This range closed very rapidly and although we were reasonably sure that these two targets were friendly, we were in a tough spot if they were enemy. They still would not answer our challenge. About this time we picked up a message on 2880 Kcs which made us reasonably sure that they were friendly. Engaged in a little 'open field running' between friend and foe and at
: 2350 Entered the strait. We were not able to sight anybody.

December 9, 1944

Still in LOMBOK STRAIT.

0023 Picked up two pips on the SJ radar bearing 190° (T), range 10,000 yards. These two fellows were on course 210° (T), speed 12. We ran around them, apparently undetected. While passing them we experienced strange radar interference on the SJ which is described under the radar report.

0200 Finished our first transit of LOMBOK STRAIT with a sigh of relief. During the transit we had no radar contacts on the SN-2.

1510 Exchanged recognition signals and information with the U.S.S. ROCK.

1940 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. ANGLER. He asked if we would give him a 6,000 volt transformer from the SJ radar and we replied in the affirmative.

-15-

Enclosure (A).

— page 167 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

December 9, 1944 (Cont'd)
2120 Completed transfer of transformer and proceeded on our way.

December 10 - December 13, 1944
Enroute to base. December 13, 1944, arrived Freemantle.

(C) WEATHER
The weather enroute to station was excellent. Several days of rain and overcast skies were encountered in Dangerous Ground making navigation in that area difficult and as a result the area more hazardous.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION
Currents encountered were as indicated in H. O. publications.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
None encountered.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS
| NO. | TIME    | LAT    | INITIAL RANGE | COURSE SPEED | HOW CONT | REMARKS |
|-----|||||||
| 1. | 0524   | 7-11.55| CM or DE : 10 | 160°         | :Ping-   |         |
|     | 11-10-44| 11-15-17| :Miles      | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
| 2. | 0754   | 7-13S   | German      | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
|     | 11-10-44| 11-15-17| :Sub.       | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
| 3. | 1620   | 10-39N  | 1 AO 1 AK: 6 | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
|     | 11-21-44| 11-15-05| 2 Escorts  | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
| 4. | 1450   | 12-27N  | 1 AH       | 160°         | :SJ      |         |
|     | 11-23-44| 11-15-49| :Miles      | 160°         | :SJ      |         |
| 5. | 0514   | 12-54N  | 2 small   | 160°         | :SJ      |         |
|     | 11-24-44| 11-16-44| Escorts   | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
| 6. | 1250   | 13-24N  | 1 AO, 2    | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
|     | 11-28-44| 11-09-24| Escorts   | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
| 7. | 0909   | 12-22N  | 1 FC      | 160°         | :Sound-  |         |
|     | 11-29-44| 11-09-25| :Miles      | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
| 8. | 1011   | 12-36N  | 1 small   | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
|     | 11-29-44| 11-09-25| :AK         | 160°         | :Sight-  |         |
| 9. | 0234   | 01-59S  | 1 Sub.     | 160°         | :SJ      |         |
|     | 12-6-44 | 108-40  | :Miles      | 160°         | :SJ      |         |

-16-

— page 168 —
1 2 3 4 5
Date : 11-12-44:11-12-44:11-13-44:11-13-44:11-16-44
Time (-8) : 0938 : 1421 : 0020 : 1015 : 0950
Position Lat. : 1-223 : 0-265 : -09N : 3-07.5N : 11-48N
Long. : 118-37E : 118-35E : 118-31E : 120-06E : 121-49E
Speed : 18 : 18 : 14.5 : 14.5 : 2.4
Course : 050° : 0260° : 0260° : 0260° : 0050°
Trim : Surf. : Surf. : Surf. : Surf. : 5er.
Mins. since last : 10 Seo. : 10 Se

— page 169 —
6 7 8 9
Date: 11-27-44: 11-27-44: 11-30-44: 12-1-44
Time (-8) 1054 1130 1330 0820
Position Lat. 13-37.7N: 13-25N 12-37N 11-14N
    Long. 109-34E 109-34E 109-39E 110-26E
Speed 12.4 12.4 12.4 12.4
Course 0000 0000 1800 1800
Trim Per. Per. Per. Surf.
Mins. since last 10 Sec.
SD radar search 10 Sec.

Number 1 1 1 1
Type Jake 1 1 1 1
Probable Mission Patrol Unknown Unknown
How Contacted Sight Sight Sight Sight
Initial Range 4 Miles 4 Miles 12 Miles 12 Miles
Elevation Angle 30 30 30 30
Range & Rel. Bear- 4 Miles 4 Miles 12 Miles 12 Miles
ing of plane when 2300 3400 1200 0100
it detected Sub.

Sea: (State 2 3 1 1
Rel. Dir. 330 000 180 175
Visibility (Miles) 30 30 30 30
Clouds: (Height 2000 Ft 2000 Ft 2500 Ft 1600 Ft
(%Overcast 60% 50% 40% 50%
Moon: (Angle
(°) 1 1 1 1
William 1 1 1 1

Enclosure (A).

- 18 -

— page 172 —
21 -

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

(H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Periscope.

Tubes Fired: #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6
Track Angle: 64° 65° 66° 67° 70° 72°
Gyro Angle: 24° 25° 26° 27° 22° 17° 3/4°
Depth Set: 10° 10° 10° 10° 10° 10° 10°
Power: High High High High High High
Hit or Miss: Miss Miss Hit Hit Miss
Erratic: No No No No No No
Mark Torpedo: 23 14-3A 23 14-3A 23 14-3A
Serial No: 49629 40341 50022 22292 50264 24849
Mark Explorer: 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5
Serial No: 13222 13854 14288 18176 25351 25044
Actuation Set: Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual: End run End run Contact Contact Contact End run
Mark Warhead: 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1
Serial No: 10109 12358 12834 1751 12925 13357
Explosive: Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex Torpex
Firing Interval: 11 Sec. 8 Sec. 18 Sec 18 Sec 10Sec
Type Spread: Divergent
Sea Condition: Force Four
Overhaul Activity: Submarine Repair Unit, Navy #134.
Remarks: Gyro regulator indicator control panel went out just at time of firing, necessitating sending gyro angles by phone to regulator and matching by hand.

(I) MINES

Not applicable.

Enclosure (A).

— page 173 —
22

Declassified
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

(J) ANTI SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASIONS TACTICS

During the counter attack on November 21, 1944 we went to 370 feet and evaded at one third speed (60 RPM). We attempted in general to keep stern towards escorts. At time of counter attack the sea was rough and there was a 120 temperature gradient. The escorts at no time had us definitely spotted. They kept dropping single charges of which only two were real close. The counter attack lasted for three hours during which time twenty one charges were dropped. Both escorts pinged constantly.

In Dangerous Ground no aircraft were sighted and the convoy had no air cover.

Off the coast of Indo China a float plane patrol-ed up and down the coast each day. On November 30, 1944 an EMILY was sighted flying close to the water. No direct air cover was seen over the two ships sighted.

Off the coast of Indo China a patrol boat was sighted pinging and apparently on an anti submarine patrol. He was followed, at a distance of about fifteen miles, by a small freighter which had the appearance of a Q ship.

All straits were clear of patrol boats and radar except LOMBOX where four patrol boats were encountered. They were traveling in pairs. Two were off the northern end of the strait and two were in the middle. Some radar was encountered. (See radar report).

The only night flying radar equipped plane was encountered in the Celebes Sea.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

During the preceding refit by Submarine Repair Unit, Navy #134 effective repairs could not be accomplished on #2 turbo blower. This blower is still giving constant trouble with a fluctuating ammeter and excessive vibration accompanied by heavy sparking on the commutator.

Enclosure (A).

— page 175 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

(M) RADAR

October 4-19 underwent refit by Submarine Repair Unit, Navy #134. Installed precision sweep on P.P.I., fused primary of transformer T-1, in P.P.I, and adjusted voltage regulator of SJ motor generator so that it would regulate properly at lowest battery voltage. Refit was considered to be appreciably below expected standard. One indication of poor workmanship was that the magnetron was secured at only one corner instead of all four. The Shi'is technicians had to work about 10 hours to put the SJ in readiness for sea. SD and IFF equipment were satisfactorily.

The performance of the SJ radar has been very good throughout the patrol. Second trace contacts were made on land at ranges up to 73 miles, also many small contacts on birds and debris up to 3,000 yards. Made contact on 360 foot island at 41,500 yards, almost the optimum. Tracked large hospital ship out to 29,500 yards.

We had only one SN (radar detector) contact during patrol. At 0019 (ZD-8), D.R. position 01-06N - 119-31E, while on base course 016° (T), speed 15, got signal, strength 4, dial readings 140 and 200 PRF 800. Made SD sweep, plane contact at 7 miles closed to 6; we drove.

The following is the description of radar interference encountered in Lombok Strait that has been referred to elsewhere in the patrol report.

When we were about midway in the strait with two presumed escorts on our starboard bow, distant about 9,000 and land about 16,000 yards on our port hand, two types of interference were seen on the SJ radar screen (Hereafter called type A and type B).

Type A (see sketch) was seen for 5 minutes before type B and for 5 minutes after type B was last seen. A was visible on the scope through 360° of bearing and moved from right to left across the scope. Type B appeared on the scope four times during a period of about 5 minutes; it was highly directional, about 100 - 150 wide on 130° (T). B also moved from right to left.

Enclosure (A).

— page 176 —
1. U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

(M) RADAR (Cont'd)

Both A and B wore visible on the P.P.I. scope and range scope at the same time. This interforerence on the P.P.I. scope appeared as roughly an ellipse of an inch long along the trace and 1/8 of an inch wide. They moved from the center out, one ellipse on the trace at a time. When we made a P.P.I. sweep the familiar spiral spoke effect was obtained.

Two of our own boats passed us going north about an hour previously. Their interference at the time was clearly distinguishable and none of the three PPR's were synchronized. An idea has been advanced, that type A could have been the beating of these other two PPR's appearing on our scope in a sine wave form.

Type A
Type B

- 25 -

— page 177 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound conditions were fair. Usually a contact was sighted before sound picked it up. On one occasion, however, JP found that a crewman on the target was not sighted for approximately 5 minutes.

The flat-bottomed lead floated out and salt water was found in the navigation box. The exact nature of the trouble cannot be determined until deck officers.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS

| Time and Date (GMT) | Position | Gradient |
||||
| 2125 11 November   | 8-50N    | 8.5°     |
| 2110 14 November  | 7-56N    | 9.0°     |
| 2104 15 November  | 10-37N   | 10.0°    |
| 2104 16 November  | 12-56N   | 10.5°    |
| 2159 20 November  | 10-41N   | 11.0°    |
| 0941 21 November  | 10-45N   | 11.5°    |

(P) HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY

The health of the crew was very good. At the beginning of the patrol the baker was a left in Derwin with V.D. During the patrol numerous cases of prickly heat occurred and were ably taken care of by the Pharmacist Mate.

Enclosure (A).

— page 178 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY (Cont'd)

In spite of a new baker, the variety of the menu and the preparation of the food was above average.

The cleanliness of the boat was maintained at an all time high, due to friendly rivalry between the two torpedo rooms and also among the chiefs of the watch. The temperature of the boat was at all times satisfactory.

(Q) PERSONNEL

(a) Number of men on board during patrol. 75
(b) Number of men qualified at start of patrol. 44
(c) Number of men qualified at end of patrol. 66
(d) Number of unqualified men making third first Patrol. 17
(e) Number of men advanced in rating during patrol. 11

All officers and men behaved in accordance with the best traditions of the Naval Service. School was held daily and all unqualified men made a determined effort to learn the boat.

Lieutenant F. F. Penny, U. S. Navy, executive officer and navigator is particularly deserving of credit because of his capable handling of the men and his skillful navigation through shallow water and straits, especially since his navigation experience is rather limited. I should say was, he is an expert navigator now.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED

Base (Brisbane) to area (Via Darwin) 3,056.4 Miles 48,049 Gals.
In area 6,091.4 Miles 78,355 Gals.
Area to Base (Perth) 1,486 Miles 24,305 Gals.

Enclosure (A).

— page 179 —
0.5s. FLOUNDER - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

(S) DURATION
Days enroute to area. 11
Days in area. 30
Days submerged 20
Days enroute to base 5

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel Factor
14 2,000 Gels. 25 Days 15 Days.
Limiting factor this patrol - Fuel.

- 28 - Enclosure (A).

— page 180 —
1. During this fourth patrol of the FLOUNDER the commanding officer acted as group commander of a coordinated search and attack group comprising FLOUNDER, BASHW and GUAVINA. Two attacks were made.

Attack No. 1 on 10 November was a day periscope attack against a German submarine which was about to transit LOMBOK STRAIT, south bound. From ideal position, 1000 yards range, 90° track, zero gyro, four electric torpedoes were fired and two hits were made. The use of the wakeless torpedo shoved good judgment, since a submarine with its maneuverability might readily have evaded steam torpedoes.

Attack No. 2 on 21 November was also a day periscope attack against the leading freighter of a two ship convoy. Six torpedoes were fired from good position, resulting in three timed hits. The escorts drove the FLOUNDER down before results could be observed and a three hour depth charging developed. Just before firing the gyro regulator indicator control panel went out of commission necessitating sending gyro angles by phone to the regulator and matching by hand in the forward torpedo room. This procedure is indicative of quick thinking and a high state of training. The second ship of the convoy could not be brought under divided fire because of its position, the proximity of the escorts and the above casualty.

The FLOUNDER returned in good material condition. The refit will be accomplished by the U.S.S. SERVILLE (AS22) and Submarine Division ONE EIGHTY-ONE - TWO relief crew. Special attention will be given number 2 turbo blower and the noisy rudder. This is the second submarine of this division reporting excessive noise in the rudder within the past three weeks.

There is some question as to whether to refor the tremendous underwater belches heard on 29 November to the medical department, a volcanologist or the pro-sub section of the staff.

1 02732

— page 181 —
4. The state of cleanliness, morale and training, upon return to port was above average. Twenty-two man norc qualified during the patrol.

5. The complete and concise description of the radar interference encountered in LOMEK STRAIT is of great value. The excellence of intra-pak radar communications is noted with approbation.

6. The Squadron Commander congratulates the FLOUNDER on completion of a fine patrol. After three patrols in relatively unproductive areas, the damage inflicted on the enemy during this fourth patrol is especially gratifying.

[Signature]
C.C. BURLINGAME
Acting.

— page 183 —
1-8/17
UNITED STATES NAVY
18/pr
FEB-71/A16-3
Serial 01577
24 December 1944.
DECLASSIFIED:
Second Indorsement to:
USS FLOUNDER Graft. Ltr.
A16-3 Serial 035, dated
13 December, 1944. Report
of Fourth War Patrol.

Subject:
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (35251) - Report of Fourth War
Patrol - Comment on:

DAMAGED
1 - AK (Similar to SANTO/NAKU - NC) 5,000 Tons Attack #2)
Grand Total 5,700 Tons

R. W. CHRISTIE.
ORIGINAL COPY

DISTRIBUTION:
Cominch (3) - Direct OTG-71.5 (2)
Vice Opnav (2) - Direct OTG-71.6 (2)
Vice Opnav Op-23e (1) - ComSubRon-12 (1)
ComSubFlt (1) - DivVonsSubRon-12 (1)
Com2ftFlt (1) - DivVonsSubRon-18 (1)
ComSubslstFlt (1) - DivVonsSubRon-26 (1)
ComSubs2ndFlt (1) - ONSubDiv-108 (1)
OTF-71 (2) - A3 Salcol, N.L. Conn. (2)
OTG-71.3 (2) - SubAd, Mare Island. (1)
CTG-71.4 (2) - N/S 7thFlt (1)

THIS REPORT WILL BE DESTROYED PRIOR TO ENTRY INTO GENERAL COTROLLED WATERS.

J. B. MILLER,
Flag Secretary.

1 02712

— page 185 —
18 March 1946
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
WASHINGTON

REASSIGNMENT OF DAMAGE BY SUBMARINES

Reference: (a) ComSubPac 1tr. FP12-10/L11(1) of 21 February 1946.

USS FLOUNDER (SS251) 4th War Patrol

FLOUNDER (SS251) should now be credited with 2849 tons sunk (1/2 GYOSAN MARU, shared with BASNAV) in addition to the German Submarine sinking already credited. Damage credit should be deleted. Commanding Officer, J. E. Stevans, Capt., U.S. Navy.

Copy to:
Subchael Nov London
00 58-251
Op-121
Op-11405

— page 186 —
1942-09-17
SS251/A16-3
Serial: 01-45
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.
25 February 1945.

c-DECLASSIFIED-1

From: The Commanding Officer,
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: Offizier Channel.

Subject: U.S.S. LOUISIANA - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(E) Track Chart.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Fifth War Patrol of this vessel conducted in the South China Sea during the period 7 January 1945 to 25 February 1945 is forwarded herewith.

J. E. STEVENS.

— page 187 —
1. U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

: 2. FROLOGUE

Arrived from Portsea War Patrol at Fremantle, Western Australia on December 13, 1944 and moored alongside U.S.S. EURYALE. Conducted sound tests and ran the de-gaussing range while entering port. The relief crew on Submarine Division One Eighty One took over and conducted normal patrol.

The following alterations were completed:

1. Pallet hatches were installed in the after battery, engine room, and after torpedo room.

2. The radar detection equipment S-2 was replaced by the AFR.

3. Loran radic navigational equipment was installed.

On December 29, 1944 commenced seven days of underway trials and training. Electrolysis and sound tests were held, conducted day and night approaches, fired all calibers of guns, and held drills.

(B) NARRATIVE (All times How)

OFFICERS AND OFFICER PETTY OFFICERS ON BOARD

| NAME | RANK OF RATE | NO. OF PATROLS |
|------|||
| STEVENS, James Edward | Commander | 8 |
| FENNEY, Franklin Edward | Lieutenant | 5 |
| COOPER, Francis William | Lieutenant | 12 |
| WILLIAMS, Robert Edward | Lieutenant | 1 |
| VISSAT, Paul Luisa | Lieutenant | 10 |
| EMMELL, Charles Ray | Lieutenant | 10 |
| CRATIN, Harold Lee | Lieutenant | 1 |
| MILLER, Wayne Iszrael | Lieutenant | 2 |
| SURGESS, John Craigill | Ensign | 1 |
| EARDEN, John Martin | CGM | 12 |
| LOUGHERTY, Thomas Arthur | CGM | 12 |
| KNAPF, Edson (n) | CGM | 5 |
| IEE, Gilbert Frantso | CGM | 7 |
| McCUE, Edmund Jerome | CGM | 3 |
| MILLER, Eugene Chris | CGM | 7 |
| CGM | 12 |
| CGM | 12 |
| CGM | 5 |
| CGM | 7 |
| CGM | 3 |
|

— page 188 —
1400 Underway for patrol.
: 1600-1800 Conducted radar tracking exercises on U.S.S. CORPUS CHRISII.
: January 8, 1945
: Enroute Fremantle Gulf conducting fire control and general drills.
: January 9, 1945
: Enroute Fremantle Gulf.
: Fathometer had developed very low ground readings (see defects). Reported this to CTF 71 and was directed to return Fremantle.
: 2005 Reversed course and headed for Fremantle.
: January 10, 1945
: Enroute Fremantle.
: January 11, 1945
: Enroute Fremantle.
: January 12, 1945
: 0930 Moored alongside U.S.S. HAKE at Berth 3, Submarine Repair Unit, Fremantle. Received gold star in lieu of second "Reluctant Dragon Card" with a suitable citation signed by the president of the society, Commander C. C. Burlingame.
: January 14, 1945
: 1300 Underway for patrol area. Fathometer had been repaired and port propeller had been replaced due to excessive noise.
: -2-
: Enclosure (A).

— page 189 —
1945
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

January 14, 1945 (Cont'd)
1500-1800 Conducted radar tracking with HMAS DUBBO.

January 15, 1945
Enroute Exmouth Gulf conducting fire control and general drills.

January 16, 1945
Enroute Exmouth Gulf conducting fire control and general drills.

January 17, 1945
0946 Moored alongside fuel barge Exmouth Gulf. Spent day and night conducting test with Major Jinkins equipment.

January 18, 1945
0515 Underway from aclngside fuel barge in Exmouth Gulf onroute patrol area.

0617 Exchanged calls with HMAS P319 in Exmouth Gulf.

0746 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. PARGO.

1955 Exchanged recognition signals and information with the U.S.S. CALMAN.

January 19, 1945
Enroute patrol areas conducting training dives, general and fire control drills.

2035 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. COBIA.

January 20, 1945
Enroute patrol area conducting training dives, fire control and general drills.

Plan to transit LOMBOK STRAIT tonight after monsoon.

-3-
Enclosure (A).

— page 190 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

January 20, 1945 (Cont'd)
2100
While still about 45 miles from STRAIT picked up radar interference on the APR. It seemed to be search radar taking one and one half minutes for a revolution, 200 mgs, pulse rate 100, pulse width 7½ micro seconds. He never seemed to pick up.

January 21, 1945
0001
Continued transit of LOMBOK STRAIT at four engine speed. Radar interference disappeared as we entered SURF IT.

0121
Radar contact bearing 028° (T), range 8,400 yards. Took avoiding action. Sighted this fellow as we passed. He was very small, not as big as one of our Sub. Chasers.

0237
Radar contact bearing 325° (T), 5,000 yards. Avoided, did not see him.

0243
Clear of LOMBOK STRAIT.

0250
Radar interference on APR. Frequency 178 mgs, pulse rate 250, pulse width 5 micro seconds. This radar was either dead on us or was a non directional radar. There was no evidence of sweeping.

0253
SJ radar contact on plane bearing 113° (T), range 11,000 yards. Range opened rapidly and plane seemed to fly through LOMBOK STRAIT. Radar interference on ART 6 led out rapidly. (Plane contact #1).

0551
Submerged. Rotated torpedoes.

1912
Suffered.

January 22, 1945
Enroute patrol area.

0605
Submerged.

-4-
Enclosure (A).

— page 191 —
1923
    Surface, nothing sighted all day except numerous
    sail boats.

    Received message: "Directly. Enroute to Rom pack
    with C.S.S. 3/4" with 2/3/1923 11:00am.

January 23, 1923
    Enroute patrol area.
    0715    Submerged.
    1943    Surface. Washing ship.

January 24, 1923
    Enroute patrol area.
    0626    Submerged.
    1946    Surface.
    2207    Commenced transit to KARIMATA STRAIT.

January 25, 1923
    Transmitted ZULMARA STRAIT.
    0040    Exchanged recognition signals with southbound U.S.S.
    GUNNARD.
    0510    Completed transit of STRAIT.
    0657    Submerged.
    1949    Surface.
January 26, 1923
    Enroute patrol area.
    1732    Sighted unidentified small plane. (Plane contact
    #2).

-5-
Enclosure (A).

— page 192 —
1733 Submerged.
2001 Surface. Sighted several sail boats during the day, around.

January 27, 1942:
Enroute patrol area.
0345 Exchanged recognition signals with southbound U.S.S. ROCK.
0912 Sighted unidentified bomber type plane headed for us. Submerged. (Plans contact #3).
1035 Surface. All clear.

January 28, 1942:
0615 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. BLACKFIN.
1907 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. KRAKEN.

January 29, 1942:
0655 Submerged in southern half area, routed torpedoes.
1936 While making an APR and SJ sweep prior surfacing picked up an extremely strong signal on the APR on 150 m.p.s., pulse rate 1,000, pulse width 8 micro seconds. Almost simultaneously SJ had contact at 7,000 yards bearing 170° (T). This contact rapidly opened out and APR contact faded. This was undoubtedly a radar equipped plane that happened to be flying over us. (Plans contact #4).

1943 Surface.
1947 Contact on APR faced out entirely.
Spont rest of night looking for the HAKE.

-6-
Enclosure (A).

— page 193 —
1945

| Date       | Time         | Location          | Notes                                                                 |
|||||
| 1945-01-01 | 0342         | Submerged off CAPT VARELLA. | Picked up mid-morning, heading 225° (T). Weather at this time was very thick, visibility about 4,000 yards. Finding mentioned that 20-21st night anything. Finally at |
| 1945-01-02 | 0345         | Sighted one escort, F.P. or DW and shortly thereafter two more followed. Thin loose like an anti submarine sweep. Also sighted a |
| 1945-01-03 | 0350         | The weather cleared, scouting and sighted the tops of one ship bearing 270° (T), too far east for a shot. Also discovered that to counter had carried us considerably south of our original position. (Ship contact #1). |
| 1945-01-04 | 0355         | Sighted a plane (TARE) patrolling over the convoy. (Plane contact #5) |
| 1945-01-05 | 0400         | Surfaced. |
| 1945-01-06 | 0405         | January 31, 1945 |
| 1945-01-07 | 0538         | Contacted the HAXE. Ordered him patrol close to VARILLA for next four days. |
| 1945-01-08 | 0702         | Submerged ten miles off coast. |
| 1945-01-09 | 1248         | Sighted one 62° sun on FM. |
| 1945-01-10 | 1910         | Surfaced. |
| 1945-01-11 | 1945         | February 1, 1945 |
| 1945-01-12 | 2000         | Patrolling off coast on surface in accordance with OTF 71 instructions. No contacts. |
| 1945-01-13 | 2000         | Received orders to transfer Major Jinkins to the FARGO. |

-7-: Enclosure (A).

— page 194 —
2, 1945

0010
Made contact on PARCO's radar and commenced closing.

0110
Started transfer of Major Jinkins and Warrant Officer. Over with their gear to the PARCO by rubber boat. Due to the amount of the party's gear the transfer took quite awhile.

0220
Completed transfer.

0503
Exhumed recognition signals with the U.S.S. HURT.

1200
Submerged.

1911
Surface, No contacts.

February 3, 1945

0100
Exchanged calls and information with the HAK.

0642
Sunk armed close to the coast at northern limit of our area.

1503
Picked up pinging bearing 325° (T). Visibility was about 3,000 yards. Pinging passed from north to south but nothing was ever sighted. (Ship contact #1).

1515
Seven depth charges went off. Fairly close but not on us.

1918
Surfaced. Received contact report from the CHAR. He apparently ran over some court-martialed. He reported it at three AQ's and three escorts. Convoy ran over to anchor QVI NHON BAY.

February 4, 1945

0020
Contacted HAKB and told him convoy might pass VAREELA later in day.

0647
Submerged fifteen miles off coast.

-8-
Enclosure (A).

— page 195 —
1916
Surface:
Exchanged recognition signals with HAKE. He reported no activity last seaside VIRTUAL. Tried him I would patrol VIRTUAL and for that to return HON DOF.

February 5, 1945.
0637 Submerged close to VIRTUAL. Routing torpedoes.

1933 Surfaced, no contacts.

February 6, 1945.
0624 Submerged close to VIRTUAL.

1247 Sighted two flying planes patrolling up and down the coast. (Plan contact #6).

1306 Sighted two TAKES patrolling the coast. Maybe the same ones as in the morning. (Plane contact #7).

1332 Our JAKES in such a gale. (Plane contact #8).

1420 JAKES back again. (Plane contact #9).

1420 Picked up flying bearing 2200 (T).

1515 Sighted crps of 2 ships. Petite stations and started approach. (Ship contact #5).

1525 Ships identified as 2 large tankers, angle on the bow 20' starboard. As approach began we seemed to be on the base of a large oil rig. I just we have starboard angle on the bow and starboard for.

1610 Targets zigged away to starboard and continued to zig away so that they passed us at about 6,000 yards. We did not fire due to excessive range. This maneuver broke our hearts. The ships had air cover and three POIs for escorts.

-9-

Enclosure (A).

— page 196 —
1940
Surfaced, all clear.

February 6, 1945. (Draft)
1940
Surfaced, all clear.

February 7, 1945.
0315
Exploited recognition signals with BERGALL. Told him that tanks were probably anchored in VAN RUGZAY. He said he would submerge and patrol off HCM KAI TONYA.

0630
Submerged off CANRIN BAY.

0830
Sighted two TAGES to north of us patrolling coast. (Plane contact #10)

0947
Heard what seemed to be two torpedo explosions and observed a tremendous column of white smoke rising at least a mile and a half in the air. Apparently the BERGALL had sunk at least one of the tankers. This began a series attack that lasted until noon in which it lasted 9 hours and bombs were dropped.

We waited for the rest of the convoy but none came. Maybe the BERGALL got them both.

1232
Sighted a PMV over the area of the counter attack. He disappeared the three planes that were circling the area and apparently chased off the escorts because no further attacks were heard.

1705
Hearpings and sighted a JAKE and five more charges in the direction of the BERGALL attack. Apparently they are still looking for him (Plane contact #11).

1941
Surfaced, all clear.

February 8, 1945.
0229
Exchanged recognition signals with the BERGALL. He requested that we close for a talk.

-10-
Enclosure (A).

— page 197 —
1945 (Cont'd)
0250 Closed BERGALL who reported that he was allright and had hit two tankers. He said he was proceeding to his area.
0530 Exchanged recognition signals with FARGO. He reported no vessel patrol off VARELLA.
0635 Submerged off EON L.T.
0805 Sighted JAKE patrolling coast. (Plane contact #12).
0958 Distant explosions, nothing in sight.
1005 Sighted 2 ZEKES headed south over the coast. (Plane contact #12).
1016 Another explosion.
1455 Sighted 3 ZEKES headed south over the coast. (Plane contact #14).
1937 Surfaced.
2001 Exchanged recognition signals by radar with the HAKE. Told him to patrol off PUAU GAMBIR. Informed him I would be north of VARELLA. Our area now from 130 to 140 latitude.
2210 Exchanged recognition signals and information with the HAKE.

February 9, 1945
0631 Submerged fifteen miles north VARELLA. This position gives VARELLA coverage all day because of the strong tide the FARGO is bound to be set south of the Cape while we are set down on it.
1216 Sighted JAKE and RUFE patrolling the coast. (Plane contact #15).
1225 Sighted PB4Y headed south along the coast.

-11-

— page 198 —
1940
February 9, 1945 (Cont'd)
1940
Submerged, nothing by today.
February 10, 1945
0300
Directed PAK and JAK to proceed and patrol off
CAMPAIGN. Set course for the above bay.
0629
Submerged off coast enroute new station.
1003
Sighted a TANK headed north patrolling the coast.
(Flame control #16).
1225
Sighted a JAK patrolling the coast. (Plane
context #17).
1245
Sighted a PBAT chasing a JAK. The JAK fled
over the land and we observed anti aircraft fire
astern of the PBAT.
1325
Picked up pinging bearing 325° (T).
1340
Sighted an EMILY flying south. (Plane contact #18).
1345
Sighted two tankers and three PC escorts bearing
330° (T) hugging the coast. (Ship contact #4).
We were too far out for an attack. We were almost
on station which was eleven miles off the coast.
Were following convoy down coast when at
1422
Sound reported a torpedo bearing 136 relative.
The bearing changed rapidly until it got to 180
relative where it remained steady and got louder.
Needless to say this looked pretty ominous. We
went deep and this thing seemed to finally sputter
out bearing remaining steady. This sputter was
heard by the soundman and one officer. There were
two possibilities for this noise. One is that one
of the JEP planes dropped some sort of an acoustic
fish or that we got in the way of one of the
PARKO's torpedoes. The second seems more possible
because the escorts did not seem alerted when we
first heard the torpedo's sower.

-12-
Enclosure (A).

— page 199 —
1526 One explosion, not at one.

1541 Another explosion, not at one.

1559 Came to port, cargo fully loaded, all clear but 2 JAKES bearing 210° (T), 1st was a mile (Plane contact #19). Passed across the deck of the destroyer.

1754 One explosion, not at one.

1826 Sighted a small patrol boat or cargo ship bearing 8,000 yards. Navy was 2,000 miles from the coast (#5).

1943 Surfaced, all clear.

1953 Exchanged recognition signals with the PARGO. He said he had made four hits in a tanker so I guess it was one of his own.

2130 Proceeding to new station.

February 11, 1945

0636 Submerged.

1521 Sighted a small patrol boat or cargo ship bearing 180°, distance 3 miles. No was too small for a patrol and it was to rough for gun action. (Ship contact #6).

1933 Surfaced.

February 12, 1945

0641 Submerged.

1235 Sighted a FB47 headed northwest.

1530 Heard loud noise which may have been distant explosion.

-13- Enclosure (A).

— page 200 —
1611
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

February 12, 1942 (front page)

1611
Seized two battleships, Ise class, bearing 099° (T), distance 16,000 yards. The angle on the bow of the leading craft was 90° per cent. It was soon apparent that we could not close this engagement without risking torpedo attack. (Ship number 47).

Traced return with crossed to be on a base course of 200° (W), speed 15 knots. Also a third undetected ship was sighted with the BDS's.

1705
Ships out of sight in periscope.

1730
Prepared to surface. Got a probable APR contact which failed out.

1745
Surfaced and started pursuit. This seemed hopeless as the best speed we could get into the fairly heavy seas that were running 16 knots. Sent contact report. Distance other boats in pack to pursue.

February 13, 1945

Still pursuing task force at top speed but with no contact.

0522
Picked up a plane on 35T radar, bearing 260° (T), range 9,500 yards. No enemy contact. Plane pulled away from us rapidly. (Blane contact 920).

0842
Made 81 contacts on line bearing 010° (W), range 8,650 yards. This was a sighting of a ship that was 1,000 yards away and 1,000 yards away. The ship was 1,000 yards away. The

— page 201 —
1000
It soon became apparent that we were slowly losing out in our chase but we continued on in hopes that something would come up or at least it was a good idea to get away from the enemy.

1000
Made contact on the way with the planes that were forming up for an attack on the task force.

1012
A PFF flew by and said that they were about to scatter the task force and asked if we would care to play tag. We answered no, it is strictly a strategic game.

1200
We learned that the Navy were not going to attack due to low cloud cover.

1345
Task force was not about to fall into the sea, and pulling away. Nothing had happened to slow them down and no planes were down so we gave up the pursuit. But our plan was to send goodbyes and start back to our area. We reported and met the west returning to his base for fuel.

To-days operation demonstrated what fine work could be done by planes and sub work. The only trouble was that we were on the wrong side of the enemy. If we had done the best we could, the planes would never have been able to get into range of the planes. It was a good thing we had the planes up and ready.

2120
Received orders for our pack and the BLACKFIN to take up life guard stations in place of the 2nd LT. Sent orders to pack and the BLACKFIN and located the station.

2330
Picked up plane on 57 water bearing 1300 (T), range 8,000 yards. No air contact. (Plane contact #21).

2331
Range rapidly decreased to 0,000 yards, submerged.

2359
Surfaced, all clear. This plane may have been friendly.

-15-
Enclosure (A).

— page 202 —
1900
On surface 11 day life guarding. No contacts, no planes flown.

1900
Received orders for our pack to patrol C-3. Cent patrol - sighting 2 ships in pack: MAKE off PUAD CAMPH, PARCO off VARELIA, FOUNDER north of VARELIA. Feared for our area.

February 15, 1945
0636
Submerged to patrol out coast.

0840
Sighted 3 BAYLE headed north along the coast. (Plane contact #22).

1450
Sighted AKE bearing 185° (T), distance 8 miles. (Plane contact #23).

1938
Surface.

February 16, 1945
0630
Submerged north of VARELIA.

0745
Pingling bearing 337° (T).

0748
Sighted 2 ships southbound hugging the coast. (Ship contact #8).

0806
Targets downed 2d into 2 medium tankers with 2 PC or PR escorts. Went to battle stations and started approach.

0851
Targets went lefting forward. PIGILLA convoy in hopes that Impossibie to reach. Nothing happened. PARCO met 'em then back. Nothing happened.

0928
Sighted a SAVY flying north along the coast. (Plane contact #24).

0945
Forced to clear the coast because we were now in the FARO area.

-16-

— page 203 —
1945 (CONT'D)
1505 Sighted 2 TAKES bearing 2300 (T), distance 10 miles.
(Plane contact #2).

1545 A third JACK joind the other two. (Plane contact #26).

1936 Surfaced.

2030 Contacted PARGO and told him I would patrol off
HON DOI tomorrow.

February 17, 1945

0632 Submerged north of TULAN GAMBER.

0848 Sighted a JACK patrolling over the coast. (Plane
contact #27).

0950 Sighted a SALT bearing 2550 (T), distance about
5 miles. (Plane contact #23).

1247 Sighted a JACK bearing 3000 (T), distance about
10 miles, patrolling the coast. (Plane contact #29).

1939 Surfaced. No contacts today.

February 18, 1945

0632 Submerged off HON DOI.

0822 Sighted 2 NELIS bearing 2700, distance one half mile.
They were flying about 500 feet off the water.
(Plane contact #30).

0835 Sighted 2 small escorts and 2 very small ships coming
between HON DOI and HON GOM on a northerly course.
These ships were not working a torpedo.

1100 Sighted an unidentified plane bearing 0000 (T), distance
10 miles. (Plane contact #32).

1428 Sighted 2 NELIS bearing 2000 (T), distance 6 miles.
(Plane contact #32). These planes circled in our
vicinity for about half an hour.

-17-
Enclosure (A).

— page 204 —
1836
: 1938
: 2330
: February 19, 1945
: 1310
: February 20, 1945
: 0123
: 0125
: 0300
: 0340
: 2043
: 2344
: February 21, 1945
: 0022
: -18-
: Enclosure (A)

**Note:** The image is a scanned document with handwritten annotations and corrections. The text is in English and appears to be a historical military report related to a submarine patrol. The annotations and corrections are in the form of handwritten notes and corrections, indicating that the document has been reviewed and edited by someone.

— page 205 —
222
Completed transfer. This had been a tough job due to the rough weather. In the process the Major lost some very valuable personal gear.

0647
Submerged area of FUJAI (MBR). Our area now northern half (-3).

1350
Sighted TAPE patrolling coast. (Plane contact #33).

1,421
Sighted TAPE patrolling coast. (Plane contact #34).

1942
Surfaced.

2300
Radar contact bearing 2540, range 11,000 yards. Started and cruised. Course of target 170° (T), speed 8. (Ship carries 7" oil).

2330
Sighted target which was difficult to identify but appeared to be a patrol boat.

February 22, 1945

0300
Moonset, sky was completely overcast, night was pitch dark, started attack.

0402
Range now 1,800 yards, target still not identified but definitely not a submarine. A very bright searchlight came on from the beach. This was located just north of VHF-1. The searchlight was not on. Range 1,800 yards, target 75° port, gyro angle practically zero, depth 75 feet. The ship scored 3.5 knots. As soon as the torpedoes started out we could see that the two fired from tubes #5 and #6 were running erratically. The torpedo from #5 started turning off to starboard while the one from #6 started turning off to port. They both started turning off as soon as they left the tubes, they did not broach. The torpedoes from #3 and #4 seemed to run normally.

Space was increased to everything we had in order to get away from our own fish. Suddenly one torpedo passed close under our stern and passed up our starboard side not 10 feet away.

-19-
Enclosure (A).

— page 206 —
U.S.S. YOUNG - Report of War Patrol Number 118.

February 22, 1945 (10:01)

At this time it was running straight and apparently
as the proper depth. A few minutes later another
torpedo passed at 100 yards. The torpedo
fired at the same time as the torpedo passed
over from the Corsair on course westwards to re-
peat. During this exercise the strain all members
of the crew observed in accordance with the highest
treatments of the Naval Service.

The course of the rocket runs has not been deter-
mined at yet. The torpedoes had been routed
regardless of the fact that the sea was not rough
and they were clear of the sea. One theory is that
their tanks struck the water for a moment.

During the evasion of the torpedoes the target
had been forgotten. Pending our maneuvers we
passed close about an ordinary looking junk which
I suppose was our target. If he was, he was some
sort of a decoy because no more small have given
us a hit at the 200 yards en a saturation pit at
3,500 yards.

Yes, there were no hits.

It seems that always during moments of great stress
amazing incidents occur. At least they are amusing
afterwards. A we were leaving the area we decided
to give the ballast tanks a blow with the turret blow.
Just once the tube broke and was started the control
room tinker easily informed all hands by phone that
we were going to blow up. All hands braced for
the shock.

-20-

Enclosure (A).

— page 207 —
1945 (Cont'd)
0633 Submerged to spend a quiet day in the area.
1933 Surfaced.
February 23, 1945 Rained.

2540 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. HOE, who was north of us.
0620 Sighted numerous lights on the beach just north of QUI NHON.
0627 Submerged to patrol coast north of QUI NHON.
1018 Sighted a NEIL headed south bearing 290° (T), distance 10 miles. (Plane contact #35).
1255 Sighted a JAKE on a northerly course bearing 210° (T), distance 6 miles. (Plane contact #36).
1258 Heard pinging bearing 210° (T).
1402 Sighted small AK, with two PC escorts and air cover, bearing 260° (T). They were on a northerly course. They passed behind FUTAH GAMBIR and entered QUI NHON harbor. (Ship contact #12).
1600 Changed course to C900 (T) to clear coast.
1700 All clear on sound, all clear by periscope, depth 65 feet. Suddenly the whole ship gave a peculiar shudder. Started deep. 30 Seconds later ship gave another shake and water started entering boat through the WR cable. Shear valve was closed and stopped leak. Sound soon repaired a tremendous rush of air and high speed screw, starting and stopping on our starboard bow. By this time we had figured out that someone has run into us. Sorews began to get fainter so at
1711 Came to periscope depth and took a look. Calm seas, blue skies, nothing in sight. We were then convinced we had run into a Jap sub and we hoped that he had sunk.

-21-
Enclosure (A).

— page 208 —
1724
Sound reported severe bearing 047° (T). Sighted large hospital ship (AVIA MART) on a southerly course bearing (47° T), range 15,000 yards. (Ship contact #13).

Took sound to the right of the ship. The hull and tanks seemed to be intact. The ARA captain seemed to be going. SJ referred to the ship. Everything was OK. The bridge reported that the bridge was OK. The ship was OK.

— page 209 —
1934
Tried to call the HOB, who we strongly suspected now, by WIFI and on Wolf Peak frequency but with no success.

: 2230
Sent message to CWF 71 reporting our collision and reported we were headed for SUBIC BAY.

: 0100
No one has admitted hitting us. Maybe the other fellow was a spy, but I don't think so.

: 0400
Received a message from the HOB telling that he had hit us.

: 0700
Inspected damage in daylight and found no additional damage except a rather deep dent in #2 normal fuel oil tank.

: 1035
Moorad alongside U.S.S. MAMPANITO in SUBIC BAY.

(C) WEATHER
The weather along the Indo China Coast was on the whole poor. The visibility was constantly reduced by low clouds and haze and frequent passing rain squalls. The sea was seldom less than a force three.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION
The currents along the Indo China Coast are very strong 1 1/3 - 3 knots making it impossible to maintain station.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
No navigational aids were encountered. CAFE VARELLA and FLAT TARGET lights appeared intact but were never observed lighted.

-23-
Enclosure (A).

— page 211 —
1942-09-25
SS251/A16-3
Serial: 01-45
c-DEASSIFIED-L

From: Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: Officials, Annapolis.

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(E) Track Chart.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Fifth War Patrol of this vessel conducted in the South China Sea during the period 7 January 1945 to 25 February 1945 is forwarded herewith.

J. E. STEVENS.

— page 213 —
1945
- 1400
- 1600-1800
- January 8, 1945
- 2005
- January 10, 1945
- January 11, 1945
- January 12, 1945
- 0930
- January 14, 1945
- 1300
- January 15, 1945
- 1300

Enclosure (A).

— page 214 —
1945
Enroute: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

January 14, 1945 (Cont'd)
1500-1800 Conducted radar tracking with HMAS DUBBO.

January 15, 1945
Enroute: Exmouth Gulf conducting fire control and general drills.

January 16, 1945
Enroute: Exmouth Gulf conducting fire control and general drills.

January 17, 1945
0946 Moored alongside fuel barge Exmouth Gulf. Spent day and night conducting test with Major Jinkins equipment.

January 18, 1945
0515 Underway from alongside fuel barge in Exmouth Gulf on route patrol area.

0617 Exchanged calls with HMAS P319 in Exmouth Gulf.

0746 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. PARGO.

1955 Exchanged recognition signals and information with the U.S.S. CAITAN.

January 19, 1945
Enroute patrol areas conducting training dives, general and fire control drills.

2035 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. COBIA.

January 20, 1945
Enroute patrol area conducting training dives, fire control and general drills.

Plan to transit LOMBOK STRAIT tonight after moonset.

-3-
Enclosure (A).

— page 215 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

January 20, 1945 (Cont'd)

2100
While still about 45 miles from STRAIT picked up radar interference on the APR. It seemed to be search radar taking one and one half minutes for a revolution, 200 mega, pulse rate 100, pulse width 7½ micro seconds. He never seemed to pick up.

January 21, 1945

0001
Continued transit of LOMBOK STRAIT at four engine speed, Radar interference disappeared as we entered STRAIT.

0121
Radar contact bearing 0280 (T), range 8,400 yards. Took avoiding action. Sighted this fellow as we passed. He was very small, not as big as one of our Sub classers.

0237
Radar contact bearing 3250 (T), 5,000 yards. Avoided, did not see him.

0243
Clear of LOMBOK STRAIT.

0250
Radar interference on APR. Frequency 178 mgs, pulse rate 250, pulse width 5 micro seconds. This radar was either dead on us or was a non directional radar. There was no evidence of sweeping.

0253
S7 radar contact on plane bearing 1130 (T), range 11,000 yards. Range opened rapidly and plane seemed to fly through LOMBOK STRAIT. Radar interference on AP had died out rapidly. (Plane contact #1).

0551
Submerged. Rounded torpedoes.

1912
Surface.

January 22, 1945

Enroute patrol area.

0605
Submerged.

-4-
Enclosure (A).

— page 216 —
1932
- Surface, nothing sighted all day except numerous sail boats.
- Received message directly from U.S. Navy with U.S. flag on starboard side.

January 23, 1945
- Enroute patrol area.
- 0715 Submerged.
- 1943 Surface. Nothing sighted.

January 24, 1945
- Enroute patrol area.
- 0626 Submerged.
- 1946 Surface.
- 2207 Commenced transit of KAMATAT STRAIT.

January 25, 1945
- Transmitting KAMATAT STRAIT.
- 0040 Exchanged recognition signals with southbound U.S.S. GUINARD.
- 0610 Completed transit of STRAIT.
- 0657 Submerged.
- 1949 Surface.
- January 26, 1945
- Enroute patrol area.

1732 Signed unidentified small plane. (Plane contact #2).

-5-
Enclosure (A).

— page 217 —
1733 Submerged.
2001 Surface. Sighted several sail boats during the day, noiseless.

January 27, 1945.
Enroute patrol area.
0345 Exchanged recognition signals with southbound U.S.S. ROCK.
0912 Sighted unidentified bomber type plane headed for us. Submerged. (Plane contact #3).
1035 Surface. All clear.

January 28, 1945.
0615 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. BLACKFIN.
1907 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. KRAKEN.

January 29, 1945.
0655 Submerged in southern half area, routed torpedoes.
1936 While making an APR and SJ sweep prior surfacing picked up an extremely strong signal on the APR on 150 mps, pulse rate 1,000, pulse width 8 micro seconds. Almost simultaneously SJ had contact at 7,000 yards bearing 170° (T). This contact rapidly opened out and APR contact faded. This was undoubtedly a radar equipped plane that happened to be flying over us. (Plane contact #4).

1943 Surfac'd.
1947 Contact on APR faced out entirely.
Spont rest of night looking for the HAKE.

Enclosure (A).

— page 218 —
1945

- U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.
- Submerged off CAPT VARTILLA.
- Plucked up midwing, bearing 225° (T). Weather at this time was very thick, visibility about 4,000 yards. Flying continued but could not sight anything.
- Sighted one escort, a PT or DP and shortly thereafter two more following. This located like an anti submarine sweep, about 2 miles.
- The weather cleared somewhat and sighted the tops of one ship bearing 270° (T), too far east for a shot. Also discovered that to our current had carried us considerably south of our original position. (Ship contact #1).
- Sighted a plane (JARE) patrolling over the convoy.
- Surfaced.
- January 31, 1945
- Contacted the HAYE. Ordered him patrol close to VARTILLA for next four days.
- Submerged ten miles off coast.
- Sighted one on our own PT.
- Surfaced.
- February 1, 1945
- Fatalizing off coast on surface in accordance with CTF 71 instructions. No contacts.
- Received orders to transfer Major Jinkins to the PARGO.
- -7- Enclosure (A).

— page 220 —
1916: Submerged recognition signals with HAKES. He reported no convoy laid seaside VIRTUAL. Tried him I would patrol VIRTUAL and for that to patrol HON DGI.

: February 5, 1945: 0637: Submerged close to VIRTUAL. Routing torpedoes.

: 1933: Surfaced, no contacts.

: February 6, 1945: 0624: Submerged close to VIRTUAL.

: 1247: Sighted two low flying VIRTUAL patrolling up and down the coast. (Plane contact #6).

: 1306: Sighted two TAKES patroling the coast. Maybe the same ones as in the morning. (Plane contact #7).

: 1332: Our TAKES in sight again. (Plane contact #8).

: 1420: JAKF back again. (Plane contact #9).

: 1420: Picked up piping bearing 2200 (T).

: 1515: Sighted tops of 2 ships. Battle stations and started approach. (Ship contact #5).

: 1525: Ships identified as 2 large tankers, angle on the bow 20° starboard. As approach began we seemed to be on the base course of 65° gear. It's we have starboard angle on the bow and star port.

: 1610: Targets zigged away to starboard and continued to zig away so that they passed us at about 6,000 yards. We did not fire due to excessive range. This maneuver broke our hearts. The ships had air cover and three PO's for escorts.

-9-
Enclosure (A).

— page 221 —
1940
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number 717E.

February 6, 1945 (Cont'd)
1940
Surface, all clear.
Flgure that our targets had anchored for night in VAM FONG BAY. It seemed HARE to watch VAM FONG BAY will be wrecked further south.

February 7, 1945
0315
Exchanged recognitions signals with BERGALL. Told him that tankers were probably anchored in VAM FONG BAY. He said he would submerge and patrol off HCM KAT POINT. We proceeded south and at

0630
Submerged off CANTAIN BAY.

0830
Sighted two TACNS to north of us patrolling coast. (Plane contact #10).

0947
Heard what seemed to be two torpedo explosions and observed a transondue column of white smoke rising at least a thoi sand fast in the air. Apparently the BRIGIL had smashed at least one of the tankers. This began a counterattack that lasted until noon in which at least 90 charges and bombs were dropped.

We waited for the rest of the convoy but none came. Maybe the BERGALL got them both.

1232
Sighted a P&H over the area of the counter attack. He disparaged the three planes that were circling the area and apparently chased off the escorts because no further depth charges were heard.

1705
Hear ping and sighted a JAKE and five more charges in the direction of the BERGALL attack. Apparently they are still looking for him (Plane contact #11).

1941
Surface, all clear.

February 8, 1945
0229
Exchanged recognition signals with the BERGALL. He requested that we close for a talk.

-10-
Enclosure (A).

— page 222 —
1. SUBJECT: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

February 8, 1945 (Cont'd)

0250 Closed BELLY who reported that he was all right and had hit two tankers. He said he was proceeding to his area.

0530 Exchanged recognition signals with FARGO. He reported he would patrol off VARELLA.

0635 Submerged of FEN KIT.

0805 Sighted JAKI patrolling coast. (Plane contact #12).

0958 Distant explosions, nothing in sight.

1005 Sighted 2 ZEKES headed south over the coast. (Plane contact #13).

1016 Another explosion.

1455 Sighted 3 ZEKES headed south over the coast. (Plane contact #14).

1937 Surfaced.

2001 Exchanged recognition signals by radar with the HAKE. Told him to patrol off PUTAU CAMBIR. Informed him I would be north of VARELLA. Our area now from 130 to 140 latitude.

2210 Exchanged recognition signals and information with the HARKO.

February 9, 1945

0631 Submerged fifteen miles north VARELLA. This position gives VARELLA overage all day because of the strong tide the HARKO is bound to be set south of the Cape while we are set down on it.

1216 Sighted JAKE and KUFE patrolling the coast. (Plane contact #15).

1225 Sighted PB4Y headed south along the coast.

— page 223 —
1945 (Cont'd)
February 9, 1945 (Cont'd)
1940
February 10, 1945
0300
0629
1003
1225
1245
1325
1340
1345
1422
1422

Submerged off coast enroute new station.
Sighted a JAHK headed north patrolling the coast. (Plane contact #16).
Sighted a JAKF patrolling the coast. (Plane contact #17).
Sighted a PB4Y chasing a JAKF. The JAKF fled over the land and we observed anti aircraft fire astern of the PB4Y.
Pilked up pinging bearing 325° (T).
Sighted an EMILY flying south. (Plane contact #18).
Sighted two tankers and three PC escorts bearing 330° (T) hugging the coast. (Ship contact #4). We were too far out for an attack. We were almost on station which was eleven miles off the coast. Were following convoy down coast when at
Sound reported a torpedo bearing 136 relative. The bearing changed rapidly until it got to 180 relative where it remained steady and got louder. Needless to say this looked pretty ominous. We went deep and this thing seemed to finally sputter out bearing remaining steady. This sputter was heard by the soundman and one officer. There were two possibilities for this noise. One is that one of the Jap planes dropped some sort of an acoustic fish or that we got in the way of one of the PARGO's torpedoes. The second seems more possible because the escorts did not seem alerted when we first heard the torpedo's screws.

-12-
Enclosure (A).

— page 224 —
1945 (Cont'd)
1526 One explosion, not close.
1541 Another explosion, not close.
1559 Came to periscope depth, all clear but 2 JAKES bearing 210 (T), 1st was 2 miles. (Plane contact #19). Plane accelerated at 2.5 knots.
1754 One explosion, not close.
1826 Sighted Jap patrol boat bearing 3430 (T), distance 8,000 yards. Duty was TICKA MARU class. (Ship contact #5).
1943 Surfaced, all clear.
1953 Exchanged recognition signals with the PARGO. He said he had made four hits in a tanker so I guess it was one of his 1st hits that we heard.
2130 Proceeding to new station.
February 11, 1945
0636 Submerged.
1521 Sighted a small patrol boat or cargo ship bearing 1800, distance 3 miles. He was too small for a torpedo and it was to rough for gun action. (Ship contact #5).
1933 Surfaced.
February 12, 1945
0641 Submerged.
1235 Sighted a FB47 headed northwest.
1530 Heard loud noise which may have been distant explosion.
-13- Enclosure (A).

— page 226 —
1000
It soon became apparent that we were slowly losing out in our chase but we continued on in hopes that something would occur that we could get as if the guard was not about to attack if any of us were not going to attack.

1002
We learned that the Japanese were not going to attack due to low cloud cover.

1200
Task forces was not about to slow down and pulling away. Nothing had happened to slow them down and no planes were down so we gave up the pursuit. But our PBY planes were not getting to our area. The returnees did not have returnees to his base for fuel.

2120
To-days operation demonstrated what fine work could be done by planes and sub working to-gether. The only trouble was that we were on the wrong side of the enemy. If we had not been ahead of this task force the planes could not have attacked us into a perfect firing position. I congratulate were excellent and the planes were cooperatives.

2330
Received orders for our pack and the BLACKFIN to take up life guard stations in place of the B-24. Sent orders to pack and the BLACKFIN and headed for life guard station.

2331
Picked up plane on 5T near bearing 130° (T), range 8,000 yards. No air contact. (Plane contact #21).

2331
Range rapidly decreased to 3,000 yards, submerged.

2359
Surfaced, all clear. This plane may have been friendly.

-15-
Enclosure (A).

— page 227 —
1900
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

February 14, 1945

On surface at day life guarding. No contacts, no planes down.

1900
Received orders for our pack to patrol G-3. Sent patrol instructions to ships in pack. HAZY off PULAU KAMIAH, PARCO off VARILLA, FLOUNDER north of VARILLA. Feared for our area.

February 15, 1945

0636
Submerged to patrol off coast.

0840
Sighted 3 BALTIC headed north along the coast. (Plane contact #22).

1450
Sighted BAE bearing 185° (T), distance 8 miles. (Plane contact #23).

1938
Surface.

February 16, 1945

0630
Submerged north of VARILLA.

0745
Pinging bearing 337° (T).

0748
Sighted 2 ships southbound hugging the coast. (Ship contact #8).

0806
Targets downed 2 medium tankers with 2 PC or DE escorts. Went to better stations and started approach.

0851
Targets went left into PATROADED ROCKS making them impossible to reach. Trail of convoy in hopes that PARCO might turn then back. Nothing happened.

0928
Sighted a SMIT flying north along the coast. (Plane contact #24).

0945
Forced to clear the coast because we were now in the PARCO area.

-16-

— page 230 —
222
Completed transfer. This had been a tough job due to the rough weather. In the process the Major lost some very valuable personal gear.

0647
Submerged south of FUJIAN (GMBJR). Our area now northern half G-3.

1050
Sighted JAKE patrolling coast. (Plane contact #33).

1421
Sighted JAKE patrolling coast. (Plane contact #34).

1942
Surfaced.

2300
Radar contact bearing 24°0, range 11,000 yards. Started and landed. Course of target 170° (T), speed 8. (Ship contact #11).

2330
Sighted target which was difficult to identify but appeared to be a patrol boat.

February 22, 1945

0300
Moonset, sky was completely overcast, night was pitch dark, started attack.

0402
Range now 1,800 yards, target still not identified but definitely not a submarine. A very bright searchlight came on from the beach. This was located just north of VAHINA. The beam searched but did not pick us up. Open sea fire and fired four tubes. Range 1,800 yards, target angle 75° per, gyro angles practically zero, depth just four feet. The ship spaced 3.5 knots. As soon as the torpedoes started we could see that the two fired from tubes #5 and #6 were running erratically. The torpedoes from #5 started turning off to starboard while the one from #6 started turning off to port. They both started turning off as soon as they left the tubes, they did not breach. The torpedoes from #3 and #4 seemed to run normally.

Speed was increased to everything we had in order to get away from our own fish. Suddenly one torpedo passed close under our stern and passed up our starboard side not 10 repeat 10 feet away.

-19-
Enclosure (A).

— page 231 —
U.S.S. YOUNG - Report of War Patrol Number 1713.

February 25, 1945 (10:01)

At this time it was running straight and apparently at the proper depth. A few minutes later another torpedo broke off our stern beam distance about fifty yards. This was running clearly and had just about passed the stern of the ship. More and more the ship was getting closer and closer to the surface. She could not hear any other torpedoes or mines, and as she carried the torpedoes to the surface she was getting closer and closer to the surface. The torpedoes were

— page 232 —
1945 (Cont'd)
0633 Submerged to spend a quiet day in the area.
1933 Surfaced.
February 23, 1945
0540 Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. HOE, who was north of us.
0620 Sighted numerous lights on the beach just north of QUI NHON.
0627 Submerged to patrol coast north of QUI NHON.
1018 Sighted a NEIL headed south bearing 290° (T), distance 10 miles. (Plane contact #35).
1255 Sighted a JAKE on a northerly course bearing 210° (T), distance 6 miles. (Plane contact #36).
1258 Heard pinging bearing 210° (T).
1402 Sighted small AK, with two PC escorts and air cover, bearing 260° (T). They were on a northerly course. They passed behind PUAU GAMIR and entered QUI NHON harbor. (Ship contact #12).
1600 Changed course to 090° (T) to clear coast.
1700 All clear on sound, all clear by periscope, depth 65 feet. Suddenly the whole ship gave a peculiar shudder. Started deep. 30 Seconds later ship gave another shake and water started entering boat through the AK cable. Shear valves was closed and stopped leak. Sound soon recovered a tremendous rush of air and high speed screw, starting and stopping on our starboard bow. By this time we had figured out that someone has run into us. Screws began to get fainter so at
1711 Came to periscope depth and took a look. Calm seas, blue skies, nothing in sight. We were then convinced we had run into a Jap sub and we hoped that he had sunk.

-21-
Enclosure (A).

— page 233 —
1724
Sound reported screw bearing 047° (T). Sighted large hospital ship (AWA MART) on a southerly course bearing 45° (T), range 15,000 yards. (Ship contact #13).

Took stock of our damage. The hull and tanks seemed to be intact. The AP ran antenna seemed to be gone. SV retractor seemed to be gone. Everything we cut in the bridge forward were repaired. AP radio was about 10 RMs. Number one radios would be not train. From this we heard that a small submarine traveling at a shallow water periscope depth had passed over us.

1920
Deidled to wait until darkness in hope other sub would surface before we did.

1920
Sound reported noise like air blowing on our starboard bow. Took a lock through the periscope and sighted a surface sound bearing on our starboard bow, range about 3,000 yards, angle on the bow 75° port. Took another lock and in the fading light identified him as a U.S. submarine. At least he looked so much like one that I could not shoot. This submarine proceeded off to the northeast at high speed. At least he looked all right.

1932
Surface. Saw came up on an even keel and stayed the way, indicating that all tanks and piping were still sound.

1933
Went to bridge to survey damage. Discovered a 25 foot gas in the superstructure on the starboard side just aft of the 4 inch gun. Looked closer and found the port pipe to #2 normal fuel oil tank and the 10 pound blow lines were badly bent but still holding. The submarine was badly bent but still 20 miles from the gun platform were bent, and the 3/8" mast badly bent, and the AP antenna was broken and twisted.

1933
Set course for SUBIC BAY. Found that SV would act as a receiver. Of course it couldn't be trained and could not be worked as a transmitter. The APR was put back in commission by hooking it up to the EN antenna.

-22-
Inclosure (A).

— page 234 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS

| NO. | TIME   | LAT   | TYPE(S) | EST. | COURSE | HOW | REMARKS |
|-----||-------||------||-----||
| 1. | 0851   | 12-4N | TUNN.  | NORTH| S      |:  | Poor visi- |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | bility, not |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | seen.     |
| 2. | 1503   | 13-4N | 3 AOR'S | SOUTH| S      |:  | Not sighted. |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 3. | 1420   | 13-0T | 2 BHS    | 12,000| 1500  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 4. | 1325   | 11-35N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1950  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 5. | 1326   | 11-45N | 3 Escorts| 12,000| 1950  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 6. | 1521   | 09-42N | 3 Escorts| 12,000| 1950  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 7. | 1611   | 09-52N | 2 BHS    | 12,000| 3250  | F  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 8. | 0715   | 13-0S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1500  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 9. | 0835   | 12-15N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | P  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 10. | 1536   | 12-34N | 2 Escorts| 12,000| 3400  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 11. | 2300   | 13-38N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1700  | S/D | Later pro- |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | ved to be |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | junk.     |
| 12. | 1402   | 13-51N | 1 Stal. AK| 12,000| 1600  | P  | Probably |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | entered |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | QUI NHON |
| 13. | 1724   | 13-30S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 14. | 1723   | 13-30S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| (G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| NO. | TIME   | LAT   | TYPE(S) | EST. | COURSE | HOW | REMARKS |
|-----||-------||------||-----||
| 1. | 0253   | 08-12S | TUNN.  | 54    | SOUTH| S/J | Had APR co |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | same time. |
| 2. | 1732   | 13-30N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S/D | Sighted Dove. |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 3. | 0912   | 04-42N | 2 AOR'S | 10    | MILES |     | Sighted for |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | us, dove. |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 4. | 127/45| 07-09B | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 5. | 142-24| 12-24N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 6. | 1521   | 09-42N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 7. | 1611   | 09-52N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 8. | 0715   | 13-0S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | P  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 9. | 0835   | 12-15N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 10. | 1536   | 12-34N | 2 Escorts| 12,000| 3400  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 11. | 2300   | 13-38N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | S/D | Later pro- |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | ved to be |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | junk.     |
| 12. | 1402   | 13-51N | 1 Stal. AK| 12,000| 1600  | P  | Probably |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | entered |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | QUI NHON |
| 13. | 1724   | 13-30S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 14. | 1723   | 13-30S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| (G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| NO. | TIME   | LAT   | TYPE(S) | EST. | COURSE | HOW | REMARKS |
|-----||-------||------||-----||
| 1. | 0253   | 08-12S | TUNN.  | 54    | SOUTH| S/J | Had APR co |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | same time. |
| 2. | 1732   | 13-30N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S/D | Sighted Dove. |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 3. | 0912   | 04-42N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 4. | 127/45| 07-09B | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 5. | 142-24| 12-24N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 6. | 1521   | 09-42N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 7. | 1611   | 09-52N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 8. | 0715   | 13-0S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | P  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 9. | 0835   | 12-15N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 10. | 1536   | 12-34N | 2 Escorts| 12,000| 3400  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 11. | 2300   | 13-38N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | S/D | Later pro- |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | ved to be |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | junk.     |
| 12. | 1402   | 13-51N | 1 Stal. AK| 12,000| 1600  | P  | Probably |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | entered |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | QUI NHON |
| 13. | 1724   | 13-30S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 14. | 1723   | 13-30S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| (G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| NO. | TIME   | LAT   | TYPE(S) | EST. | COURSE | HOW | REMARKS |
|-----||-------||------||-----||
| 1. | 0253   | 08-12S | TUNN.  | 54    | SOUTH| S/J | Had APR co |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | same time. |
| 2. | 1732   | 13-30N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S/D | Sighted Dove. |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 3. | 0912   | 04-42N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 4. | 127/45| 07-09B | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 5. | 142-24| 12-24N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 6. | 1521   | 09-42N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 7. | 1611   | 09-52N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 8. | 0715   | 13-0S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | P  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 9. | 0835   | 12-15N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 10. | 1536   | 12-34N | 2 Escorts| 12,000| 3400  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 11. | 2300   | 13-38N | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 3400  | S/D | Later pro- |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | ved to be |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | junk.     |
| 12. | 1402   | 13-51N | 1 Stal. AK| 12,000| 1600  | P  | Probably |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | entered |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  | QUI NHON |
| 13. | 1724   | 13-30S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| 14. | 1723   | 13-30S | 2 AOR'S | 12,000| 1600  | S  |         |
|     |        |       |         |      |        |:  |         |
| (G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

— page 235 —
1934

Tried to call the HOB, who was strongly suspected now, by VHF and on Wolf Pack frequency but with no success.

: 2230

Sent message to CUF 71 reporting our collision and reported we were headed for SUBIC BAY.

: 0100

No one has admitted hitting us. Maybe the other fellow was a Jap, but I don't think so.

: 0400

Received a message from the HOB telling that he had hit us.

: 0700

Inspected damage in daylight and found no additional damage except a rather deep dent in #2 normal fuel oil tank.

: 1035

Moored alongside U.S.S. PANATITO in SUBIC BAY.

(C) WEATHER

The weather along the Indo China Coast was on the whole poor. The visibility was constantly reduced by low clouds and haze and frequent passing rain squalls. The sea was seldom less than a force three.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

The currents along the Indo China Coast are very strong 1 1/3 - 3 knots making it impossible to maintain station.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

No navigational aids were encountered. CAFE VARELIA and FUTAI SANITR lights appeared intact but were never observed lighted.

-23-

Enclosure (A).

— page 237 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

| TIME | IAT | INITIAL | COURSE | HOW | EST. |
|------|-----|||------|------|
| 24. | 0928| 11-02N | 8.1L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/16/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 25. | 1505| 12-23N | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
|      | 2/16/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 26. | 1545| 12-23N | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
|      | 2/16/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 27. | 0586| 13-24N | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
|      | 2/17/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 28. | 0950| 15-47N | 3.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/17/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 29. | 1246| 11-14N | 3.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/17/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 30. | 0822| 11-44N | 2.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/18/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 31. | 1100| 12-44N | 3.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/18/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 32. | 1428| 12-50N | 2.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/18/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 33. | 1050| 13-52N | 3.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/23/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 34. | 1421| 13-52N | 3.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/23/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 35. | 1018| 13-52N | 3.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/23/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |
| 36. | 1255| 13-52N | 3.5L  | 1    | 1    |
|      | 2/23/45| 10-35 | 2 JANES | 0    | P    |

(H) ATTACK DATA
TO BE ATTACKED BY

U.S.S. FLOUNDER
TARGET: 34° 22' N, 124° 45' E
DATE: 22 Feb. 1945
PATROL NO. FIVE
Lat. 12-51N-109-31E

TO REPORT DATA - IMAGE INCLUDED

Description: Radar contact made on single large sailing Junk at 11,000 yards.

Ships Sunk: None.

Ships Damaged or probably sunk: None.

Target Drift: 5° Course 140° Speed 6 Range at Firing 1,350 Yd.

-26-
Enclosure (N).

— page 238 —
1/1/1945
ubject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

(H) ATTACK DATA (Cont'd)
Speed: 5 Course 260° Depth Surface Angle 0 (At firing).

TYPE CONTROLS AND CO-ORDINATE DATA
Type attack: Night surface radar attack. Did not identify target until after firing, when we almost rammed him.

Tubes Fired:
- Track Angle: 640
- Gyro Angle: 356
- Depth Set: 4°
- Power: High
- Firing Miss: Yes
- Mark Torpedo: 14-3A
- Serial No: 63634
- Mark Exploder: 6-5
- Serial No: 19982
- Situation Set: Contact
- Situation Actual: Contact
- Mar Warhead: 16-1
- Serial No: 19586
- Explosive: Torpex
- Firing Interval: 9 Secs.
- Type Spread: 1/1
- Sea Condition: Force 3 from 010°.
- Overhaul Activity: U.S.S. EURYALE (A322)
- Remarks: 63634 Made circular run to port; 63560 Made circular run to starboard.

(I) MINES
No mines encountered.

(J) ANTI SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS
Anti submarine measures are fairly intense along the Indo China Coast. All convoys have air cover. The usual air cover consisted of from one to three Jakes. Near the end of the patrol several Helens were sighted on anti submarine patrol. These Helens were probably brought out because the search liberators seemed to be too much for the Jakes.

-27-
Enclosure (A).

— page 239 —
1. Approximately twenty (20) feet of superstructure side plating and accompanying braces and deck stringers carried away between frames 41 and 45 along the starboard side. Damage to deck stringers extending inboard approximately six (6) feet.

2. Minor bailing on external salvage connections. (Officers quarters high salvo and control room low salvo.)

3. Minor bailing of forward 20 MM platform deck and life line stauanchors.

4. Bending the ten pound blow line to #1 M.B.T.

5. Partially collapsing main vent duct to #2A M.B.T.

6. Severe damage to SJ radar equipment including carrying away the antenna top bearing and twisting the upper half of the radar mast off on a 45° angle to port. The mast was forced into the gear assembly in the conning tower sufficiently to ruin the latter and damage the hull fittings.

7. The entire AR antenna assembly was carried away and the shear valve was closed through the cable to prevent flooding of the control room.

8. The upper bearing of #1 periscope shear received a certain amount of the shock to the radar antennas causing sufficient damage to prevent training #1 periscope but not enough to prohibit raising and lowering the scope.

9. Denting #2 normal fuel oil tank.

-28- Enclosure (L).

— page 240 —
1. IDENTICAL
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

(R) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (cont'd)

TORPEDOES
Sixteen air torpedoes (12k 23 and 14-3A) were carried forward and six electric torpedoes (MK 8-1) aft. A few major defects were experienced with both types of torpedoes.

#65452 (MK 23) had no fuel, no water and no fuel compartment plute.
#50250 (MK 23) had no water.
#56051 (MK 18-1) ventilation supply and exhaust lines are the same size, preventing prior ventilation while torpedo is in tube.
#56473 (MK 18-1) stop valve free from in open position; charging choke valve jammed open later while gauging the air flasks. After considerable effort, the charging choke valve was disassembled and found in such a rusty condition that it was almost beyond repair. During this work a momentary short caused the motor to turn shearing the shaft between the two propellors. A new piece was manufactured from a steel bolt.
#50250 (MK 23) body was flooded when tubes made ready. This was caused by leak of gasket in after body manifold plate.

Many minor defects were also experienced, these were namely: dirty black oil in high pressure air of all MK 18-1 torpedoes; no tanki was in any of the after body hot wire flanges, some screws loose or broken and most of stop valve spindles leaked.

(L) RADIO
Bakers broadcasts were normal. Fading was worst from 0230 to 0430. NPG Bams was close to 9230 Kos and at times the interference from this station was strength five. No other interference or jamming was experienced. The new system of retransmission - for - receipts functional with moderate success.

No major defects occurred with the radio equipment. The Wolf Pack frequencies were good. Reception was generally quite good, and present no difficulties if all boats are on frequency.

-29-
Enclosure (A).

— page 241 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER _ Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER _ Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

(L) RADIO (CONT'L)

Excellent results were obtained on VHF. On several occasions flights of planes were established by calling on VHF and then over-returning the messages. One occasion was in trailing the task force in the planes gave us very good information of the disposition, course and position of the enemy. The planes at the time could not see us as we were 40 miles behind the ships. We tried several times to get a contact and were not successful. The radio was not very good. The information to maneuver for crossing the attack.

Another contact was received with the PBY area search planes from the Philippines. It was not possible to get a contact with the PBY area search planes from the

— page 243 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number FIVE.

(N) SOUND (Cont'd)

The fathometer was flooded upon return from the last patrol. Enroute to Exmouth readings were taken on the new head. The sound readings dropped rapidly neosstating a return to frequency to report. The fathometer functioned perfectly during the patrol.

(0) DENSITY LAYERS

| Time and Date | Depth |
||-------|
| 0318         | 31-5/8 |
| 30 December  | 31-5/8 |
| 0340         | 31-5/8 |
| 5 January     | 11-5-34E |
| 12 January   | 32-00S |
|              | 11-5-30E |
| 2220         | 17-2/8S |
| 18 January   | 11-3-47E |
| 2300         | 12-40S |
| 19 January   | 11-5-06E |
| 2157         | 07-35S |
| 20 January   | 11-5-48E |
| 2258         | 12-16N |
| 28 January   | 109-38E |
| 2302         | 13-30M |
| 30 January   | 10C.0H |
| 0623         | 11-59.5N |
| 10 February  | 109-40E |
| 2240         | 9-48N |
| 11 February | 110-00E |

- -32-

Enclosure (A).

— page 244 —
1. HEALTH, FOOD AND FACILITATING
   - Health in general was excellent. The only sickness was one case of trauma north near the end of the patrol.
   - Habitability was good.

2. PERSONNEL
   - (a) Number of men on board: [CIRCUMFERENCE: 75]
   - (b) Number of men qualified as secret of patrol. [CIRCUMFERENCE: 49]
   - (c) Number of men qualified at end of patrol. [CIRCUMFERENCE: 53]
   - (d) Number of qualified men making their first patrol. [CIRCUMFERENCE: 10]
   - (e) Number of men advanced in rating during patrol. [CIRCUMFERENCE: 9]

3. MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED
   - Tremantile to Area: [3,039 Miles]
   - Fuel Used: [39,790 Gals.]
   - Area to Subic Bay: [5,946 Miles]
   - Fuel Used: [69,657 Gals.]
   - Area to Subic Bay: [60 Miles]
   - Fuel Used: [1,250 Gals.]

4. DURATION
   - Days enroute to area: [14 (Returned to Perth and started again).]
   - Days in area: [36]
   - Days enroute to area: [1]
   - Days in area: [36]
   - Days enroute to area

— page 247 —
5. Rofit was reported to be detached by GRIFFIN and Rofit (Crow 192). It is believed that the destroyer engaged by this collision can be satisfactorily corroborated for the attack of that patrol.

6. Despite the harrowing experience of the submarine, the patrol was not completely silent upon returning to port.

7. The Commander Submarine Squadron T. H. W. W. welcomes this and Camp Coo and commanders this report to the submarine patrol. It is a necessary thing that the dispositions of this patrol will be reported by outstanding successes on the next one.

O.N. T. H. W. W.

— page 248 —
24-71/A16-3
Serial: 0565
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
SECOND ENDORSEMENT TO:
USS FLOUNDER Conf. Ltr.
A16-5(6) No date.
Report of Fifth War
Patrol.

From:
To:
Via:

Subject:
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS35) - Report of Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. The Fifth War Patrol of the FLOUNDER, under the command of Commander J. E. STEVENS, U.S.N., was conducted in the SOUTH CHINA SEA off the coast of INDOCHEA.

2. On 12 and 13 February the FLOUNDER was in contact with an enemy task force which she was unable to close for attack. Her experiences in communicating with our aircraft, both Army and Navy, are very interesting, and indicate the possibilities of combined aircraft submarine coordination. This technique is being carefully worked out, and is becoming increasingly important in these areas.

3. Many contacts were made with traffic along the INDOCHEA Coast, but FLOUNDER was unable to close for attack. On 22 February a night surface radar attack was made on an unidentified target, and FLOUNDER was forced to radically maneuver in order to evade two erratic torpedoes.

4. On 23 February the FLOUNDER was cruising submerged when she collided with the U.S.S. HOPE. It is almost providential that only very minor damage was done to FLOUNDER, and none to HOPE.

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

6. The Force Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew of the FLOUNDER upon the completion of this patrol and upon extricating themselves from the very difficult and precarious position which resulted from erratic torpedo performance on 22 February.

FARES FILTER.

— page 249 —
24-71/A16-3
Serial 0565
G-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
SECOND ENDORSEMENT:
USS FLOUNDER CO. Ltr.
A16-3(6) No data.
Report of Fifth War
Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS651) - Report of Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

DISTRIBUTION:
1. ComInch (3) D1eot CTG-71.5 (2)
2. Vice Opnav (2) Direst CTG-71.8 (2)
3. ComSubRon-26 (2)
4. ComSubSubRon-12 (1 ea)
5. ComSubSubRon-16 (1 ea)
6. Com7thRlt (2) DiVcomSubRon-26 (1 ea)
7. ComSubSubRlt (3) S/M School, N.L. Conn. (2)
8. ComSub2ndRlt (4) Jmdt: INT, Puget Sound (1)
9. CTF-71 (7) SubId. Mere Island (2)
10. CTG-71.3 (2) S/M TnFit (1)

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

S. B. MILLER,
Flag Secretary.

— page 251 —
1. U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251)
SS251/A16-3
Serial: 03-45
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.
22 April 1945.

DECLASSIFIED:
From: The Commanding Officer,
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet,
Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Sixth War Patrol of this vessel conducted South of Hainan Island during the period 15 March to 22 April 1945 is forwarded herewith.

J. E. STEVENS.

122318

— page 252 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.

(A) PROLOGUE

Arrived SUBIC BAY, JUZON, P.I. from fifth war patrol on February 25, 1945 and moored alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN. Normal refit and repair of collision damage was done by the tender and the relief crew of Sub Div 122, assisted by own Ship's company. No alterations were made.

Received one days training on March 12, 1945. During training a bad leak developed in new radar mast. Radar mast was replaced and ship was ready for sea on March 15, 1945.

All hands, from the Task Group Commander down made every effort to make our stay on the "Frontiez" pleasant and a relaxation. It is appreciated.

(B) NARRATIVE (All Times How)

OFFICERS AND OTHER PETTY OFFICERS OF BOARD

| NAME          | RANK OR RATIO | NO. OF PATROLS |
||||
| STEVENS, James Edward | Commander | 9              |
| PENNY, Franklin Forrest | Lieutenant | 6              |
| COCCHER, Francis William | Lieutenant | 6              |
| WICKS, Robert Edward | Lieutenant | 6              |
| WISSELL, Paul Luisa | Lieutenant | 6              |
| KENNEL, Charles Kay | Lieutenant | 6              |
| CHAN, Harold Lee | Lieutenant | 6              |
| MILLER, Wayne Ishmael | Lieutenant | 6              |
| BURGESS, John Cargill | Ensign | 3              |
| BOREN, John Martin | CEM | 6              |
| DOUGHERTY, Thomas Arthur | CPM | 6              |
| KNAPP, Edison (n) | CQM | 6              |
| LEE, Gilbert Frentson | CQM | 6              |
| MOORE, Edmund Jerome | CQM | 6              |
| MILLER, Eugene Chris | CTM | 4              |

Enclosure (A).

— page 253 —
0721 - Underway for patrol area with U.S.S. DAY as escort.
: 0930 - Passed U.S.S. SEA ROBIN and escort headed eastward.
: 1150 - Released escort.
: 1200 - Post 14-44N 119-19E.
During day made numerous contacts with friendly plar
Made contact by VHF on all planes sighted.
: 2200 - Received orders to join U.S.S. BRILL and CHUBB for
co-ordinated patrol in area G-1.
: 0400 - Underway for patrol area conducting training dives,
general and fire control drills.
: 0815 - Sighted 14'B-25's headed westward. Made contact on
VHF. We are continuing a policy adopted on last
patrol of trying to contact all friendly planes on
the VHF. This system has enabled us to get much
valuable information and to avoid unnecessary dives.
: 1200 - Post 14-39N 113-43E.
: 0400 - Entered area.
: 0740 - SJ radar interference on our SJ radar. It was too
weak to challenge and soon disappeared.
: 1048 - Sighted a big flying boat bearing 0320 (T), distance
ten miles. Tried unsuccessfully to call him on VHF.
He kept boring in straight for us. (Aircraft
contact #1).

-2-

Enclosure (A).

— page 254 —
1050
Range of plane was now five miles and he was still headed for us so we submerged. Nothing happened. Believe this fellow was a PBM, but couldn't take a chance.

Upon submerging, discovered that packing around the SJ radar mast was leaking badly. Spent rest of the day getting it right.

1200
Posit 16-33N 109-45.2E.

1919
Surfaced.

2200
Received message from the BRILL saying that he was leaving the area. He reported no contacts, but said he had observed torpedo wakes twice.

March 18, 1945

0832
Submerged for submerged patrol. Had planned to patrol this area on the surface, but in view of BRILL's report of enemy submarines in this area and attacks on other boats in adjacent areas, decided to patrol across shipping lanes submerged. The Japs can't always miss.

0917
Sighted plane bearing 3110 (T), distance 10 miles, he was too far away to identify. (Aircraft contact #2).

1200
Posit 17-05.7N 108-52.7E.

1930
Surfaced.

March 19, 1945

0250
Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. CHUBB by SJ radar.

-3-

Enclosure (A).

— page 255 —
1945 (Cont'd)
0305 Held rendezvous with the CHUBB. Directed him to patrol northern half of area while we took southern half.
0700 Submerged for patrol.
0900 Sighted plane bearing 1680 (T), distance 6 miles. He looked like a PBY, so came to radar' depth and called him on VHF. No results. (Aircraft contact #3).
1200 Posit 16-52.5N 108-39.7E.
1940 Surfaced.
March 20, 1945
0736 Submerged for patrol.
1200 Posit 17-09.5N 108-27.2E.
1945 Surfaced.
March 21, 1945
0702 Submerged for patrol.
0720 Sighted unidentified bomber bearing 300° (T), distance 10 miles on a south westerly course. (Aircraft contact #4).
1200 Posit 16-47N 108-37.5E.
1444 Heard loud, but distant explosion. Nothing in sight.
1512 Heard two more distant explosions. Still nothing in sight.
1940 Surfaced.

-4-
Enclosure (A).

— page 256 —
1950
Exchanged recognition signals with the U.S.S. CAVALIA on the SJ radar. Asked him if he were the cause of the explosions - day. He replied that he had heard them, but didn't know what they were.

: 1950
March 22, 1945
0701
Submerged for patrol.
1200
Post 16-44.7N 109-00E.
1935
Surfaced.
2205
Contact on the A.P.R. at 151 Mos.
2224
Lost A.P.R. contact.
2235
Regained A.P.R. contact.
2347
Exchanged recognition signals with U.S.S. SEA ROBIN who was joining our pack and who also reported he had mail for us. This was very welcome news because we had not received any mail during our refit. Decided to wait till monsoon for the exchange of mail.

: 1945
March 23, 1945
0330
Exchanged calls by SJ radar with the CHUBB.
0440
Commended receiving mail from the SEA ROBIN.
0515
Transfer of mail completed. He had a breeches buoy rig which really worked well. Also gave him information and patrol instructions. Now have area divided into three sections from North to South. CHUBB to NORTH, then SEA ROBIN, and then FLOUNDER.

-5-
Enclosure (A).

— page 257 —
SUBJECT:  U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.

:  March 23, 1945 (Cont'd)

: 0701  Submerged for patrol.

: 1200  Posit 17-05.7N 109-21.7E.

: 1950  Surfaced.

: 2005  SEA ROBIN reported he had rescued one pilot to-day.

: 2255  Exchanged calls and information by SJ radar with SEA ROBIN.

:  March 24, 1945

: 0012  Exchanged recognition signals and information with the CHUBB.

: 0120  Exchanged recognition signals and further information with SEA ROBIN. He reported that U.S.S. TIGRONE in area North of us had sent a contact report. While we were exchanging messages TIGRONE cancelled his contact report.

: 0700  Submerged for patrol.

: 1200  Posit 17-00N 108-40E.

: 1940  Surfaced.

: 2135  Exchanged calls and information with the SEA ROBIN.

:  March 25, 1945

: 0700  Submerged for patrol.

: 1200  Posit .16-39.5N 108-52.5E.

: 1941  Surfaced.

-6-

Enclosure (A).

— page 258 —
1945
- 25
- 26
- 0515
- 0700
- 1200
- 1931
- 27
- 0715
- 1200
- 1943
- 2000
- 28
- 0055
- 0701
- 1200
- 1942

: 1945
- Exchanged calls by SJ radar with the SEA ROBIN.
- Submerged for patrol.
- Posit 16-53.7N 108-23E.
- Surfaoed.
- Received message from the CHUBB reporting that he had sighted a periscope to-day at 1130 How at Lat. 17-48N Long. 108-50E.

: 1945
- Exchanged calls by SJ radar with the SEA ROBIN.
- Submerged for patrol.
- Posit 16-53.7N 108-51.2E.
- Surfaoed.

-7-
Enclosure (A).

— page 259 —
0000
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.

March 29, 1945

0020 Exchanged recognition signals and information with the SEA ROBIN.

0626 Submerged for patrol.

0728 Distant explosion, nothing in sight.

1200 Posit 16-46.7N 109-13.7E.

1448 Another distant explosion, nothing in sight.

1939 Surfaced.

2032 Made SJ contact on target bearing 083° (T), distance 14,000 yards. Sent contact report to rest of pack and started SJ radar tracking.

2035 A.P.R. contact on 145 Mcs. and 200 Mcs. Also on the bearing of the target, picked up interference which looked exactly like SJ radar.

2040 Target consisted of four or five ships, speed 12, or a northerly course, zig-zagging. They could be seen in the bright moonlight at 15,000 yards but not identified.

2150 A.P.R. contact at 160°.

2155 SJ picked up plane bearing 090° (T), distance 5 miles, closing.

2157 Sighted plane in moonlight. It was fairly positive! Identified as a PEM. Established communication by VHF. We had some anxious moments until communicatic was established.

-8-

Enclosure (A).

— page 260 —
2200 Two BPM's now in sight, circling us. Planes reported they were about to bomb the convoy. Told them we would standby clear of convoy to render any assistance needed.

2211 Two yellow flares were dropped ahead of the convoy.

2212 SJ radar began picking up numerous pips various bearings. At first we thought the air was full of planes until we realized that the planes had dropped windows.

2225 Planes dropped bombs on convoy. Anti-aircraft fire was intense from four or five escorts. It looked like 40 millimeter fire.

2230 Two large fires were observed in the direction of the convoy. Assumed that the planes had hit two ships but our satisfaction was short lived when one plane reported that one fire was probably one of our planes shot down. The flyers said they had seen a signal flare on the water and would we try and rescue the downed crew. We said we would and headed for the position of the fallen plane. They also informed us that another attack flight was relieving them at midnight. By this time we had lost the convoy in the maize of pips caused by the windows left by our planes.

2330 Arrived area where plane had gone down. Made thorough search, firing green very pistols and listening on 500 Kcs. We had no luck. There was no trace of the plane or survivors or the damaged ship.

March 30, 1945
0200 Gave up search and proceeded in pursuit of convoy.

— page 261 —
0300 SEA ROBIN reported she was attacking convoy. Her position indicated that the convoy had radically changed course and speeded up.
: 0340 SEA ROBIN reported that she had fired at a DE and missed. As we had no hope of catching the convoy now, we reversed course and went back to search for plane crew. We had no luck the second time. I don't believe the poor fellows had a chance to get out of the plane.
: 0600 Gave SEA ROBIN position of the downed plane.
: 0730 Submerged for patrol.
: 1200 Posit 16-56.7N 109-39E.
: 1215 Sighted a PEM bearing 1500 (T), distance 6 miles. Tried to call him on VHF, no luck.
: 1936 Surfaced.
: 2105 A.P.R. contact 152 Mos., strength one. Interference rapidly grew to saturation and SJ picked up plane, distance 5 miles, closing. Submerged. (Aircraft contact #5).
: 222Q Surfaced, all clear.
: 2308 A.P.R. contact on 152 Mos., strength two. Faded out rapidly.
: 2318 A.P.R. contact on 152 Mos., strength one, soon faded out.

-10-
Enclosure (A).

— page 262 —
1. SUBJECT: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.
: 2. March 30, 1945 (Cont'd)
: 3. 2341 A.P.R. contact on 152 Mgs., strength one, soon faded out.
: 4. March 31, 1945
: 5. 0624 Submerged for patrol.
: 6. 1120 Sighted a PEM bearing 070° (7), distance 10 miles, Planed up and established communication by VHF. He reported no contacts. He said he was still searching for survivors from PEM shot down on the night of March 29.
: 7. 1200 Posit 16-58.5N 109-29.2E.
: 8. 1932 Surfaced.
: 9. 2010 CHUBB reported she had rescued three army aviators South of HAINAN ISLAND.
: 10. 2300 Exchanged recognition signals and information with the SEA ROBIN.
: 11. All times ITEM from now on.
: 12. April 1, 1945
: 13. 0725 Submerged for patrol.
: 14. 1200 Posit 17-12N 108-59E.
: 15. 2040. Surfaced.
: 16. 2225 Contact on A.P.R., 152 Mgs., strength two. Contact gat steadily stronger and settled on us.

-11-
Enclosure (A).

— page 263 —
2227 Contact reached strength five, still steady on us. Submerged. Nothing happened. (Aircraft? contact #6).

: 2344 Surfaced, all clear.

: 0730 Submerged for patrol.

: 1200 Posit 17-02.5N 109-17E.

: 1202 Sighted PEM bearing 050° (T), distance 10 miles. Planed up to radar depth and attempted to establish communication on VHF.

: 1215 Established communication with the plane. He reported no contacts.

: 2031 Surfaced.

: 2048 Exchanged recognition signals and information with SEA ROBIN.

: 0730 Sighted Junk type sailboat bearing 280° (T), distance 6 miles.

: 0735 Submerged for patrol.

: 1200 Posit 17-42.2N 108-56.2E.

: 2037 Surfaced.

: 2150 Contact on A.P.R., 195 Mcs. which swept by us several times, strength one to two and then disappeared. This is probably aircraft warning radar on HAINAN ISLAND.

-12-

Enclosure (A).

— page 264 —
1945 (Cont'd)
The CHUBB left the area at dark to-night.

April 4, 1945
0408 Contact on A.P.R. on 180 Mcs.
0320 Exchanged recognition signals by SJ radar with the SEA ROBIN.
0726 Submerged for patrol.
1200 Posit 17-08.5N 109-09.5E.
1722 Sighted sailboat on a North Easterly course bearing 250° (T), distance 5 miles.
1952 Sighted another sailboat bearing 221° (T), distance 4½ miles. He was also on a North Easterly course.
2037 Surfaced.
2105 A.P.R. contact on 195 Mcs. He swept us again for a few times and disappeared.

April 5, 1945
0002 Exchanged recognition signals on SJ radar with the SEA ROBIN.
0145 A.P.R. contact on 195 Mcs. He acted as before, swept passed us a few times and disappeared.
0626 Submerged for patrol.
1200 Posit 17-04.5N 109-08.7E.
1220 Sighted a sailboat on a North Easterly course bearing 315° (T), distance 8 miles.

-13-

Enclosure (A).

— page 265 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.

April 5, 1945 (Cont'd)
1723 Slighted another sailboat on a North Easterly course bearing 040° (T), distance 5 miles.
2039 Surfaced.
2230 Received orders to take lifeguard station South of HAINAN next day.
2245 Exchanged recognition signals by SJ radar with the SEA ROBIN. Gave his station for air strike. His station was 10 miles east of ours.

April 6, 1945
0130 A.P.R. contact at 195 Mcs. He acted as he had alway done, a few sweeps at about strength one and then no more.
0705 Sighted SEA ROBIN on lifeguard station.
0732 Submerged close to lifeguard station.
1155 Surfaced for air strike.
1200 Posit 17-46.2N 109-36E.
1210 Made contact on VHF with planes making strike.
1237 A.P.R. contact on 195 Mcs. From than on until we dove, had intermittent contacts varying from strength one to five.
1240 Planes reported no business for us.
0110 Sighted SEA ROBIN on his station.

-14-
Enclosure (A).

— page 267 —
0500
Received message from the GURNARD saying he had mail for us and requesting rendezvous. Set one for tomorrow night.

0717
Sighted the SEA ROBIN on his lifesguard station.

0723
Submerged on lifesguard station.

1200
Post 17-25.2N 109-29.5E.

1234
Surfaced and attempted, with no success, to contact planes on plane frequencies.

1401
Submerged. Planes probably didn't come to-day as there was a heavy overcast.

1405
Distant explosion. All clear.

1518
Sighted the SEA ROBIN on the surface.

1550
Surfaced and communicated by VHF with the SEA ROBIN. He reported no luck with planes but that he had heard the explosion.

1600
Submerged for patrol.

2034
Surfaced.

2005
A.P.R. contact on 160 Mcs. very weak, soon faded out. Believed this was a friendly plane and tried, with no success, to get him on the VHF.

2205
Closed SEA ROBIN for talk on VHF. He reported that he was leaving his area. He also reported picking up seven survivors from a sea truck that a search plane had sunk. Finally he said that he had seen a periscope at 1700 this afternoon.

-16-

Enclosure (A).

— page 269 —
1945 (Cont'd)
0120 Surfaced, all clear.
0724 Submerged for patrol.
1200 Posit 17-42N 109-11.7E.
2040 Surfaced.
2135 Our old friend on 195 Mcs. made a few sweeps across us, very weak.
April 13, 1945
0719 Submerged for patrol.
1200 Posit 17-14N 109-19.5E.
2035 Surfaced.
2040 Sent message to the LAGARTO, who had been assigned our area, and arranged rendezvous.
2045 A.F.R. contact on 154 Mcs., quickly faded out.

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Enclosure (A).

— page 270 —
0002
Exchanged recognition signals with the LAGARTO and closed for talk on VHF. Give him all the information that I had about the area.

: 0050
Set course for base in accordance with OPORD.

: 1200
Posit 18-13.5 111-14E.

: 0002
Enroute SAIPAN.

: 0002
Arrived SAIPAN.

(C) WEATHER
The weather in general was good, three days being longest period of time when no sight was obtained due to a heavy overcast.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION
Current was generally from the North East but varied in strength from about .2 knots to 1.2 knots depending on the force of the wind and sea.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
None encountered.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS
| NO. | TIME | LAT | INITIAL | EST. |
|-----|------|-----||------|
| 1. | 2030 | 16-40N | 2 Marus | 14,000 |
|     | 3/29/45 | 109-35E | 4 Escorts | Yards |

| RANGE | SPEED | CONT | REMARKS |
|-------|-------|------||
| 14,000 | SJ   | OWN | Own planes |
| 12   |       | ATTACKED |       |

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Enclosure (A).

— page 271 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS
No aircraft encountered were positively identified a. A.P.R. and then on the SJ.

(H) ATTACK DATA.
None.

(I) MINES
None encountered.

(J) ANTISUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS
No antisubmarine measures were encountered, hence, no evasion tactics used.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE
Mark 23 Torpedo No. 49956 had a leak in silver soldered joint on line leading to reducer.

(L) RADIO
No material defects. Reception of Bakers schedule was seriously impeded by three factors - (1) Bakers signal drifted in frequency (2) much fading was experienced (3) several other stations transmitted on the same frequencies. The calls of these stations seemed to be JESZ, FZS3 and MTS2, all at various irregular times. Also near Bakers was a carrier modulated at various times by music and press broadcasts. Carrier usually began at 16252, had S4-5 signal. None appeared to be deliberate jamming. 9250 was best for night use. 12630 was not interfered but signal was very weak at night. During day 12630 was best signal. Chunking was copied and reception was good but content was of no value in our area. During periods of worst interference, Coras was copied (1400Z-1700Z) which gave good results.

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Enclosure (A).

— page 272 —
1. SUBJECT: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.

(M) RADAR

Repairs due to the damage of last patrol were entirely satisfactory, and S7 functioned normally. Changed magnetron after 1300 hours because frequency began drifting. Only worthy contact was convoy whose largest ship was a destroyer at 16,000 yards. Window was dropped by our attacking night planes and buzzed substantial confusion of targets for us. Numerous birds were picked up and tracked by the S4. Most contacts on birds were within 4,000 yards and moving at approximately 30 knots. Some, however, were tracked out as far as 9,000 yards (during the day these were seen to be long flights of small white birds).

(N) SONAR GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS:

There were no contacts on the sound gear. The QB was manned on surface as directed by CPF-71 as anti-torpedo watch. No material defects.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS

No deep dives were made due to shallow water.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY

Health, Food and Habitability was good during the entire patrol.

(Q) PERSONNEL

(a) Number of men detached after previous patrol. 3
(b) Number of men on board during patrol. 75
(c) Number of men qualified at start of patrol. 50
(d) Number of men qualified at end of patrol. 61
(e) Number of unqualified men making their first patrol. 3

The conduct of the officers and men was in accordance with the best traditions of the Naval Service. This was a boring patrol in that contacts were almost non existent. However, morale remained high and all hands made every effort to improve their knowledge of the boat and ready themselves for contacts, should they materialize.

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Enclosure (A).

— page 273 —
1. SUBJECT: U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.
2. (R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED
   - Base to area: 581 Miles
   - In area: 4,828 Miles
   - Area to base: 2,362 Miles
   - 7,210 Gals.
   - 55,434 Gals.
   - 44,934 Gals.
3. (S) DURATION
   - Days enroute to area: 2
   - Days in area: 29
   - Days enroute to base: 7
   - Days submerged: 29
4. (T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
   - Torpedoes: 11,000 Gals.
   - Fuel: 14 Days
   - Provisions: 10 Days
   - Personnel: 10 Days
5. (U) COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES
   - No enemy countermeasures were experienced.
   - A.P.R. contacts were made almost nightly on 152 ± 2 and 196 ± 2 Mts. They were making slow sweeps. Only one night did a plane show up to force us down when the 152 Mts. became E-5. One night a strong 180 Mts. contact was received - triggering the SD for 10 seconds caused all A.P.R. contacts to cease for the remainder of the night. Last was believed to be friendly.
   - TIME LATE
     - DATE LONG FREQ. I.R.F. P.W. STRENGTH
     - 0000H 17-23N 180 200 7 2-4
     - 4/4/45 109-51
     - 2230H 17-31N 197 700 10 1-3
     - 4/3/45 109-21
     - 2200H 17-08N 152 7 4
     - 4/4/45 109-24
     - 2200H 17-08N 198 700 10 1

-22-
Enclosure (A).

— page 274 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER - Report of War Patrol Number SIX.

| TIME | LAT  | LONG  | FREQ. | P.R.F. | P.W. | SIGNAL STRENGTH |
|------|------|-------|-------|-------|------||
| 2300H | 17-21N | 195   | 700   | 10    | 1    | 1              |
| 4/5/45 | 109-18 |       |       |       |      |                |
| 0035H | 17-23N | 195   | 700   | 10    | 1    | 1              |
| 4/6/45 | 109-41 |       |       |       |      |                |
| 2100H | 17-31N | 150   | 400   | 7     | 2    | 2              |
| 4/7/45 | 109-32 |       |       |       |      |                |
| 1940H | 17-38N | 154   |       |       | 2    | 2              |
| 4/10/45 | 110-06 |       |       |       |      |                |
| 2000H | 17-40N | 154   | 400   | 7     | 2    | 2              |
| 4/12/45 | 109-35 |       |       |       |      |                |

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Enclosure (A).

— page 275 —
44/A16-3
Serial (053)
G-C-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. FLOUNDER SIXTH
WAR PATROL.

From:
To:
(1) The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
(3) The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
(4) The Commander-in-Chief, Squadron FOUR.

Subject:
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS 251) SIXTH WAR PATROL - Comments on.

1. The Sixth War Patrol of the U.S.S. FLOUNDER was conducted south of Hainan Island under the Operational Control of Commander Task Force 71. The patrol was of fifty days duration.

2. In spite of the fact that the area was completely and thoroughly, the FLOUNDER made only one contact worthy of torpedo attack. This was a convoy contacted at night. However, planes from our own forces attacked this convoy first. In doing so they dropped a considerable amount of "window" which caused the FLOUNDER to lose all track of the convoy by radar. In addition one of the planes crashed in the area and the FLOUNDER spent some time in searching for it with no results. The convoy could no longer be found as dawn came on.

3. The FLOUNDER also performed life guard duty but was given no opportunity to make a rescue.

4. The FLOUNDER returned from patrol in an excellent state of cleanliness and in a fair material condition. She will proceed to the West Coast for a modernization overhaul.

5. The Commander Submarine Division Forty-four regrets that no opportunity was given to attack the enemy, but congratulates the Commanding Officer, Officers and crew for the thorough and efficient manner in which the area was covered.

— page 276 —
11/wrt
Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

FC5-4/A16-3
Serial: 0354
7 May 1945
CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT:
USS FLOUNDER (SS251) - 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, Administrator.
(2) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET.
Subject: U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS251) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the Commander Submarine Division FORT-FOUR.
2. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the U.S.S. FLOUNDER upon the completion of her sixth war patrol.

W. V. O'REGAN
W. V. O'REGAN