U.S.S. STINGRAY (SS-186) — war patrol report SS-186_STINGRAY.pdf

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1. NAVY DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
DIVISION OF NAVAL HISTORY (OP 0989)
SHIPS' HISTORIES SECTION

HISTORY OF SHIPS NAMED STINGRAY

Two submarines of the fleet have been named STINGRAY for a fish scientifically known as Dasyatis subita. The dorsal spines near the end of the whiplike tail of the stingray are capable of inflicting severe wounds.

The first STINGRAY (SS 13) was built by the Fore River Shipbuilding Company of Quincy, Massachusetts. Her keel was laid 4 March 1908 and she was launched 8 April 1909, under the sponsorship of Miss Elizabeth Stevens, stepdaughter of Naval Constructor W. B. Ferguson, USN. The submarine was placed in commission on 23 November 1909, Ensign Eldred B. Armstrong. USN, in command.

STINGRAY had an overall length of 105 feet 4 inches; extreme beam, 13 feet 11 inches; normal displacement, 238 tons; mean draft, 10 feet; submerged displacement, 275 tons; designed complement, 1 officer and 14 men; and a designed depth of 200 feet. She had a designed speed on the surface of 10.5 knots and was designed to make 9 knots submerged. Her armament was two 18-inch torpedo tubes and she carried four torpedoes.

STINGRAY became a unit of the Atlantic Torpedo Fleet which accomplished much instructive work to the great benefit of the torpedo service as it cruised along the eastern seacoast, taking time out for drills with the U.S. Atlantic Fleet in waters off Cuba and in the area of Cape Cod Bay. Her name of STINGRAY was canceled and she was redesignated USS C-2, effective 17 November 1911.

C-2 continued duty with the Atlantic Torpedo Fleet until it ceased to exist as a separate organization in March 1912. With eight other submarines and three submarine tenders, she then constituted the Atlantic Submarine Flotilla. She continued tactics and drills along the eastern seaboard from Boston, New York and Norfolk, clearing the last named port on 20 May 1913 for operations in the Caribbean Sea out of Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. During 7-12 December 1913 she joined four other "C Boats" (C-1, C-3, C-4 and G-5) in the 700-mile passage from Guantanamo Bay to Cristobal, Panama Canal Zone. This was the longest cruise made up to that time by United States submarines operating under their own power and was successfully completed without serious engineering mishap.

C-2 based at Coco Solo, Panama Canal Zone during most of her remaining career. She was a part of the harbor defense at Colon, Panama, upon the outbreak of World War I and reached Key West on 21 June 1918 for defense patrol along the coast of Florida. She returned to Cristobal, Panama Canal Zone, on 1 September 1918 and was decommissioned at the Submarine Base, Coco

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1942 STINGRAY underwent overhaul in the Pearl Harbor Navy Yard and cleared that port on 26 October 1942. It has fifth war patrol. She was about 400 miles east of Mili Atoll on 1 November when she dodged two small aerial bombs which hit the water 105 yards off her starboard bow. Reaching Ontong, Java, on 6 November, she commenced a 24-hour reconnaissance for a possible Japanese seaplane base, radar or radio installations among islands in that area. The only sign of human occupancy was the village of Lanania Island. All other islands appeared uninhabited and covered with a dense growth of trees. Now she headed for the coast of Buganville, Soloman Island, taking up patrol in the area lying between Keita and Buogainville Straits.

On 12 November 1942 STINGRAY started an approach on two freighters and a minelayer but an enemy escort closed in and a momentary loss of depth control spoiled her aim. In the early morning daylight of the next day, four torpedoes missed a frig'ter and a destroyer and STINGRAY felt that wrath of fourteen depth charges followed by violent explosions of aerial bombs as planes worked over a slick left by the submarine. Upon surfacing, STINGRAY found the leaking air bottles in her number two main ballast tank the cause of all this was and made necessary repairs. On the morning of 21 November 1942 she fired a deadly salvo of four torpedoes at a freighter coming out of Buogainville Strait and the violent explosion of a hit in this target knocked out how planes of the fighting submarine and broke some lights. Seconds later another torpedo hit was seen through the periscope. As the enemy freighter blazed amidships and started settling, a destroyer came down STINGRAY's torpedo tracks, echo-ranging and circling as he dropped twelve depth charges to no avail. This victim was never identified.

On 4 December 1942 STINGRAY turned north to patrol the traffic running towards Truk. She gained ahead of a small tanker the next morning and let go with three torpedoes with no luck. As her periscope broke water the afternoon of 10 December, two aerial bombs hit very close in the glassy sea and the force of the concussion broke the glass over the object prism, allowing the periscope to flood and put it out of commission. More aerial bombs hit the water during the next two hours, and finding it impracticable to patrol with low periscope, STINGRAY headed for home. She terminated her fifth war patrol at Pearl Harbor on 20 December 1942.

STINGRAY left Pearl Harbor astern on 12 January 1943 for submerged patrol north of Mille Atoll, then south and west of Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. On 4 February she investigated Japanese installations on Roi Island of Kwajalein Atoll, then headed to patrol south and west of Truk where she found no target worthy of torpedo fire. She again conducted reconnaissance of Eniwetok Atoll on 1 March 1944 and returned to Pearl Harbor from her sixth war patrol on 8 March 1943.

STINGRAY successfully carried out two mining missions during her seventh war patrol. She stood out of Pearl Harbor on 2 April 1943 and completed her mine plant on the China coast after midnight of 20 April. A second plant was made the night of 22-23 April and she was twenty-five miles to the south.

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1944 STINGRAY launched off a submerged pinnacle at a depth of 52 feet in latitude 20-30' North, longitude 142-22' East. Her only warning was a series of noises sounding like distant depth charges but soon sounding much closer. This was accompanied by intermittent grating noises, then a series of jolts lifted the whole submarine three or four feet. Being out in the middle of the ocean where the chart showed over 2,000 fathoms of water, the first thoughts of her skipper were "what the hell kind of anti-submarine measures are they using now?" Damage was confined to the starboard sonar head and pit ward. After this venture she took precautionary soundings and found no bottom at 2,000 fathoms. During the early morning darkness of 13 April her lookouts sighted the approach of a brorching torpedo. The submarine made a sharp turn left and went ahead full speed as the torpedo settled down and ran shallow to pass ahead at about a hundred feet. Ten seconds later a second torpedo wake hissed STINGRAY as it ran down her starboard side. She searched her retirement course for the instigation of this attack without success and returned to Pearl Harbor on 22 April 1944.

STINGRAY spent her eleventh war patrol as a lifeguard station ship for the airstrikes on Guam in the Marianas Islands. She left Pearl Harbor astern on 26 May 1944, took station, awaiting the airstrikes scheduled for the morning of 11 June, and observing the nightly display of searchlights and flares on Guam Island. She was within sight of Guam the early morning of 11 June where she sputtered an enemy bomber circling some four miles away. At 0740 she gained sight of American aircraft carrier torpedo-bombers and asked for fighter-cover as the enemy bomber made a fast exit for the horizon. With no American planes in sight, the enemy bomber again came in view. STINGRAY let out a "Tally-ho" as that enemy headed in from about seven miles. An hour later she rescued Lieutenant John Moore Search, USNR, who made a water landing a little over a mile away. He was pulled from the water by STINGRAY's Lieutenant E. G. Weed, who jumped overboard and brought that injured pilot to the submarine. The airman reported that his air group had shot down the enemy bomber. On the same morning STINGRAY vectored fighters in on another enemy bomber and had the satisfaction of seeing that antagonist fall into the sea.

In the afternoon of 12 June 1944 STINGRAY headed at full speed towards an object on the water. The glare of the sea led her men to first believe that she had come upon two Japanese on a raft and tramp guns were manned. As she drew closer two airmen - - - - spotted in a yellow rubber boat. Guns were struck below as she rescued Lieutenant Richard Edwin

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13 June 1944 American aircraft arrived on the tide of dawn and at 0940, STINGRAY received word that a pilot had landed in his parachute about 500 yards off the Agana air strip. One of her covering aircrafts, she was about to leave the pilot as STINGRAY commander a forty-mile run to reach that position. Her covering aircraft reported intense anti-aircraft fire as it circled the downed pilot. This covering aircraft also reported the pilot was still only 500 yards from the beach and making no headway. At this point the very high frequency airwaves bristled "Don't tell them that, they'll never go in!" Thereafter STINGRAY received reports that the pilot "was at least a mile or the beach and drifting nicely." Covering aircraft lined STINGRAY up for approach on the pilot and a shell from enemy shore batteries exploded some 400 yards away. She dived and manned her periscope as two more shiis exploded two hundred yards dead dead. Now a torpedo-lobber dropped a rubber boat and word soon came that the stranded pilot was safely inside.

STINGRAY made her submerged approach with about ten feet of number one periscope and about three of number two periscope out of the water. The airman missed catching onto "these "scopas" and assumed to be paddling away as three shells smashed on STINGRAY's port quarter and two juniors came close enough to cause the airman to duck in his small craft. Lieutenant Commander Sam C. Loomis, Jr., gained a mighty stiff neck and a "blind eye" airing with a certain sense of flustered disgust as he spent what was probably the most trying four-hours of his Navy career. He took his submarine in to the periscope and at last the airman hung on. With his hand cut badly, it must have been tough to hand while jumping over white caps onto the bitter-end of the line with one hand, the other with the other hand. Towed out to a safe distance, Ensign Donald Carol Brandt, USNR, was taken aboard. That lucky airman was soon on "speaking terms" with Commander Loomis who consoled the shock of Brandt's falling upside down in his parachute from an altitude of 12,000 feet, his resulting injuries, and the horror of his close call from enemy shellfire.

STINGRAY rescued pilot Lieutenant (j-) Walter Bruce Longing, USNR, the afternoon of 14 June and stood by the next morning as a surface bombardment task group pounded Guam. During this interval, several torpedo bombers of the American carrier force made dummy anti-submarine runs on the helpless submarine. When one of these "friendly" pilots inquired over very high frequency broadcast "Are there any friendly submarines west of Guam?" STINGRAY lost no time. "You're damn right, this is WILLIAM, please lay off!" Word was soon passed to the air squadron commanders who brought an end to this hectic state of affairs. While American invasion troops stormed Saipan on 16 June 1944, STINGRAY was "chased" from rescuing two downed pilots by destroyers or the surface bombardment group.

On the night of 18 June 1944 STINGRAY experienced a fire in her superstructure near the conning tower hatch. Here she was looking for the Japanese fleet and "looking like a Christmas tree." This menace was extinguished only to start up again. Finally the trouble was traced to

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1944, 2,784 mile voyage to Darwin where she took on board a party of one Filipino officer, 14 men, and about six tons of supplies. These were landed on Mayraira Point, on the northwestern coast of Luzon. She arrived one mile off the landing beach at daylight of 27 August and waited out the day on the bottom. She surfaced in a bright half-moon and headed in, flooded down, and silently running on her battery. Continuous soundings were taken and when about 450 yards from the beach, she ran aground. Three solid jolts forward on hard sand and she rolled over ten degrees to port. All engines backed full and she bounced a couple of times on the way off and let go anchor about 630 yards from the beach, headed west into the moon streak. A group of ten armed Japanese sea-trucks chugged by some 450 yards away from STINGRAY who rigged a sail and played "sail boat" with her 3-inch .30 caliber guns and other guns manned. All hands were instructed to lay down on the deck as she waited for the enemy to make the first move. She "passed inspection" and soon rubber boats moved to the beach and return. Four hours later more ships rounded the eastern point and STINGRAY again passed inspection by 14 armed Japanese sea trucks. At about this point the ship's cook was discovered rummaging around a pile of stores on the submarine's deck. When queried as to why he was not lying down on deck as ordered, he answered, "Sir, I'm looking for something that will float!" By this time the fourteen sea trucks had STINGRAY boxed in and a sail boat closed as other craft started milling around. With the security of the landings at stake, she moved out at best speed on her battery and dived to breathe more easily at 150 feet. She set course for Darwin and on 31 August picked up one Japanese officer and three men in Latitude 11°-40' North, Longitude 129°-51' East. These men claimed to be from the Japanese light cruiser NATORI, sunk early the morning of 18 August 1944 by the American fleet submarine HAREHEAD. Ta'en from a rubber raft which was painted red with white stripes, all were in serious physical condition from exposure and lack of food. STINGRAY reached Darwin on 7 September 1944.

STINGRAY was underway from Darwin on 10 September to conduct her thirteenth war patrol. She closed the shore of Majoe Island in the early morning daylight of 14 September to look over possible landing beaches. That night, she put ashore an air-wearing party of 1 officer and eight men. She patrolled in the vicinity throughout the night, hampered by the eager and "friendly" aviators as well as several native fishing craft. The next night she moved again close off the beach and established communications.

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1944

STINGRAY carried out two special missions in the Philippines during her fourteenth war patrol. Sailing from Darwin on 21 September 1944, she landed three U.S. Army officers and 5 tons of supplies on the east coast of Samar the night of 27 September 1944. Three days later she made rendezvous with a small boat off Malun Island where she landed three Army officers and stores. An eager torpedo-bomber "mistakenly" bombed her path on 3 October and she had quite a time waving another "friendly" bomber off two days later. She reached the fuel dock of Seeadler Harbor on 7 October. Here she was met by the torpedo-bomber's escort fighter pilot who invited the crew for dinner aboard the escort carrier MIDWAY. Commander Loomis learned that "Hunter-killer" pilots from the escort carrier were looking for an enemy submarine which had fired two torpedoes across the bow of MIDWAY. One of these had struck and sunk a destroyer escort on the far side of the carrier the early morning of 3 October, just south of the submarine safety lane. He also learned that the second bomber crashed into the sea while making a run on STINGRAY. It was most fortunate for STINGRAY that this pilot's radio was out of commission and he was unable to get off a contact report to MIDWAY's hunter-killer group before his plane sank beneath the waves.

STINGRAY was routed on to Brisbane where she arrived on 14 October 1944 for refit. She cleared that port on 6 December 1944 to complete a special mission in the vicinity of Tawi Tawi, southwestern island of the Sulu Archipelago. She reached Mics Woendi Lagoon on 16 December and topped off with fuel while taking cargo and passengers for transport to Batuan Island. She was ordered back to port before her arrival at Batuan and put out to sea again on the 27th, this time bound for Tongehatan Point, Tawi Tawi. She closed the beach of that island the night of 31 December 1944 and loading boats were soon alongside for 27 tons of supplies. She returned from this fifteenth war patrol to Mics Woendi Lagoon, on 6 January 1945.

STINGRAY's last and sixteenth war patrol was conducted in two parts. Four special missions in the Kurgan Islands and the Celebes area were carried out during this patrol. She put to sea from Mics Woendi Lagoon on 11 January 1945 and picked up a landing party of six men at Darwin (17-23 January). Two native coast watchers were landed on the beach of Nipanipa Penisula, Celebes, on 27 January, but another landing was cancelled at Amaha, Ceram Island, when suspicious activity on the beach and many native boats interfered.

STINGRAY returned to Darwin on 1 February 1945 and was underway two days later with landing parties and 2,500 pounds of equipment and provisions. She scouted off the beach of Sekalana, Kedeen Island, in the bright morning moonlight of 7 February and maneuvered close to the beach.

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1. STAR/PHILIPPINE ISLANDS OPERATION: 11-24 Dec 1941
2. STAR/SECOND WAR PATROL-PACIFIC: 30 Dec 1941-11 Feb 1942
3. STAR/THIRD WAR PATROL: 27 May 1942-23 Jun 1942
4. STAR/CAPTURE AND DEFENSE OF GUADALCANAL: 27 Oct-30 Dec 1942
5. STAR/SEVENTH WAR PATROL-PACIFIC: 2 Apr 1943-17 May 1943
6. STAR/TENTH WAR PATROL-PACIFIC: 10 Mar-2 May 1944
7. STAR/MARIANAS OPERATION:
   - Capture and Occupation of Saipan: 11 Jun-10 Jul 1944
   - Battle of the Philippine Sea: 19-20 Jun 1944
8. STAR/TWELFTH WAR PATROL-PACIFIC: 2 Aug-7 Sep 1944
9. STAR/THIRTEENTH WAR PATROL-PACIFIC: 10-19 Sep 1944
10. STAR/FOURTEENTH WAR PATROL-PACIFIC: 21 Sep-14 Oct 1944
11. STAR/FIFTEENTH WAR PATROL-PACIFIC: 6 Dec 1944-6 Jan 1945
12. STAR/SIXTEENTH WAR PATROL-PACIFIC: 11 Jan-23 Feb 1945
13. PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION BADGE:
    16 Aug 1944-1 Jan 1945

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15 Mar 1938 - 27 Nov 1939
: 2 Nov 1939 - 2 Dec 1939
: 2 Dec 1939 - 12 Jan 1940
: 12 Jan 1940 - 2 May 1941
: 2 May 1941 - 29 Dec 1941
: 29 Dec 1941 - 1 Jan 1943
: 1 Jan 1943 - 1 Dec 1943
: 1 Dec 1943 - 3 Nov 1944
: 3 Nov 1944 - 21 Sep 1945
: 21 Sep 1945 - 17 Oct 1945

* Note: Temporary command while Lieutenant Commander Blair was in the hospital.

ORIGINAL STATISTICS:

LENGTH OVERALL: 308 feet
EXTREME BEAM: 26 feet, 1 inch
STANDARD DISPLACEMENT:
  Tons: 1,449
  Mean Draft: 14 feet, 2 inches

SUBMERGED DISPLACEMENT:
  Tons: 2198
DESIGNED DEPTH: 250 feet
DESIGNED SPEED:
  Surfaced: 21 knots
  Submerged: 9 knots
DESIGNED COMPLEMENT:
  Officer: 5
  Enlisted: 50
ARMAMENT:
  Torpedo Tubes: (8) 21-inch
  Secondary: (1) 3-inch .50 caliber
                (2) .50 caliber
                (2) .30 caliber
Torpedoes: 24

Compiled and stenciled 8 Dec 1960 (ks)

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1942
: 1942
: The Commending Officer.
: The Commander Submarines, U.S. ASIATIC FLEET.
: War Patrol No 2, U.S.S. STINGRAY.
: Enclosures: (A) Patrol Report December 30, 1941 to February 11, 1942.
: (B) Track Charts of Operations (with original report only).
: (C) Paraphrase listing of despatches applying to U.S.S. STINGRAY.
: 1. Enclosures (A) to (C) inclusive, are forwarded herewith.

FILMED
40204

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U.S.S. STINGRAY
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
U.S.S. STINGRAY - Report of No 2 War Patrol - Period from
December 30, 1941 to February 11, 1942
Zone time kept -8

Phase I
Period: 0400 December 30, 1941 to 0540 January 3, 1942.
Area: Enroute Marivales, P.I. to first station.

Phase II
Period: 0540 January 3, 1942, to 23:45 January 17, 1942.
Area: Area between longitudes 110-30E and 1080-55E, and between latitude 17-30N and Hainan coast.

Phase III
Period: 23:45 January 17, 1942 to 03:30 January 25, 1942.
Area: Enroute Hainan coast to station in Makassar Strait.

Phase IV
Period: 03:30 January 25, 1942, to 03:45 February 8, 1942.
Area: West coast of Celebes.

PhaseV
Period: 03:45 February 8, 1942, to 13:12 February 11, 1942.
Area: Enroute west coast of Celebes to Soerabaja, Java N.E.I.

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1. Received despatch changing area from that designated before sailing to one off south and east coasts of Hainan. Were already proceeding westward along latitude that formed southern boundary of new area so no change in plans was necessitated.

Phase II

Patrolling off eastern and southern coasts of Hainan. January 3 - 5 - Investigated Leongsoi Bay and possibilities of traffic in or out of bay or around southeastern corner of Hainan. Nothing sighted during period except a few fishing vessels which appeared authentic and harmless. Moved to area south of same Bay.

January 6 - Sighted merchantman headed south out of Sama, too far distant to attack. Sound had reported echo ranging but believe ship to have been using fathometer as no destroyers could be seen.

January 10 - At 0710 when making periscope exposure, heard and felt what appeared to be explosion near by. Had just swept horizon and no ship in sight. Went deep on possibility that aircraft might have spotted us. No further indications of presence of aircraft. Fired three (3) torpedoes at transport without escort. Ons hit, ship sank almost immediately.

January 13 - Sighted destroyer headed into Sama Bay.

January 15 - Sighted merchantman headed into Sama Bay. Too distant to attack.

Phase III

Enroute from Hainan coast to station in Makassar Strait. January 18 - Sighted oil tanker in longitude 110-28E latitude 16-27N headed on course about north west. Was too distant to attack.

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0-0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
A Brief narrative including time and position of any incidents of note (Continued)

Phase IV

West coast of Celebes.
January 25 - Sighted convoy of two (2) transports and two (2) destroyers rounding Mangkalihat Light and heading about 220° T. Were too far away to attack. Surfaced, ran around and ahead of them and dove at dusk. Forced deep by screen before reaching attacking position.

January 26 - Sighted convoy of two (2) transports and two (2) destroyers rounding Mangkalihat Light. Again thrown too wide of track as they changed course to south. Surfaced and trailed from rear, hoping for night attack. Forced down just after dusk by destroyer from screen that had apparently sighted us about sunset. Light (8) depth charges but not very close and no damage done.

January 27 - Just before dawn sighted destroyer coming in on our bow from dark spot on horizon. Dove. Three (3) depth charges, one (1) on starboard quarter, two (2) on port, very close but no damage. We were at 100 feet and they seemed to be below.

January 28 - Sighted convoy of two (2) transports and two (2) destroyers headed south from Mangkalihat Light. By this time had learned their route fairly well and were in good position. Forced deep and sound unable to locate.

January 29 - Destroyer forced us down shortly after midnight. Light (8) depth charges, again not very close.

January 30 - Sighted destroyer at 0410 headed approximately for us. Dove and apparently were unsighted, although a few minutes later sound reported high speed screws, sounding like a torpedo. Believed sound in error, as no apparent attempt was made to attack.

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1. Brief narrative including time and position of any incidents of note (Continued)
: Phase IV (Continued)
: January 31 - February 1 - Patrolling Davao-Makassar Strait line. Nothing sighted.
: February 2 - Between 10 Sand Makassar Strait. No remarks.
: February 3-7 - Off Cape William. No remarks, nothing sighted.
: February 8 - Left area and headed for Soerabaja.

Phase V
: Enroute to Soerabaja.
: February 11 - Lookout reported submarine on starboard beam at 00:30. Were then about 45 miles east of point Unit. Turned our stern to him and lost contact in darkness. Am not certain that submarine was actually there, for only one (1) lookout sighted him.

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0-0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-I

B Weather

Phase I

December 30, 1941 - January 2, 1942 - Sky overcast, seas rough.

Phase II

January 3-5 - Sky clear, sea moderate, and visibility generally good.

January 6-9 - Sea rough, strong winds from NE, and visibility poor both day and night.

January 10 - Water smooth, light winds and excellent visibility.

January 11-17 - Sea moderately rough to very rough, strong northeast winds, and poor visibility. Only on rare occasions could navigational fixes be obtained.

Phase III

January 18-20 - Sea very rough. A surface speed of ten (10) knots was all that could be maintained because of spray coming over bridge.

Phase IV

January 21-22 - Sea smooth. Visibility good except for low hanging clouds near land that prevent us from finding entrance to Balabac Strait until daylight.

January 23-28 - Sea smooth, at times glassy. Very moderate winds from northeast. Visibility good except for typical tropical cloudiness during morning and evening twilights.

January 29-February 3 - Sea generally smooth, but with slight chop. Moderate winds.

February 3-8 - Sea generally smooth, visibility average except for numerous rain squalls both day and night.

Phase V

February 9-11 - Sea smooth. A few rain squalls.

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U.S.S. STINGRAY
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
C Tidal Information
Phase I
No remarks.
Phase II
Off south east coast of Hainan, current appeared to have set of about 225, drift of 1 knot.
Off southern coast of Hainan (south of Sama Bay) set to south-west with drift of slightly less than 1 knot.
Closer to the southern coast of Hainan and towards western end of our area set appeared to be to north with drift of 2 knot.
Phase III
No remarks.
Phase IV
No appreciable current was noted at any time north of Cape William when off the west coast of Celebes.
Phase V
When in Madeera Strait, current appeared to have a set to eastward, with a drift of 1 to 2 knots.

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U.S.S. STINGRAY

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

D  Navigational Aids

During entire period, no navigational lights were sighted. Occasional use was made of light houses during daytime to fix positions, especially when running Balabac Strait.

-6-

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0-N-F-I-D-F-N-T-I-A-I

E Description of enemy warships or merchant ships or other craft sighted, including position, course and speed, and time of sighting.

Phase I

Nothing sighted.

Phase II

1200 January 6 - Sighted merchantman about 20 miles south of Sama Bay, headed south. Speed estimated at 12-14 knots. Appeared to be type similar to Kyushu Maru. Retained merchantman painting with stack markings. Too distant to distinguish colors.

0820 January 10 - Sighted transport about 15 miles south of Sama Bay, course about 010°, speed estimated at 12 knots. Was type similar to Suwa Maru and painted war color.

0923 January 13 - Sighted destroyer, Tidore class, about 20 miles south of Sama Bay, course north, speed estimated at 15 knots.

Phase III

0833 January 18 - Sighted oil tanker in latitude 16-27W, longitude 110-28E headed on course 320° T. Estimated speed 15 knots. Painted war color. Type appeared to be similar to our own new tankers such as U.S.S. NEO5HO.

Phase IV

1322 January 25 - Sighted two (2) transports with two (2) destroyers as screen. At time of sighting were 20 miles, bearing 070 from Tg. Mangkalahit Light, course estimated at 160°. Later course was changed to 220°. Speed estimated at 12 knots. Transports appeared large at range seen, and to have one (1) stack. Details of destroyers could not be seen and could have been Osuzu class cruisers.

11:17 January 26 - Another convoy of two (2) transports with two (2) destroyers. When sighted were about 17 miles due east of Tg. Mangkalahit Light and on course 160°. Course was later changed to 185°. Speed estimated at 10 knots. Same type of transport as previous day, large and with single stack. Destroyers appeared to be of Sigur class.

19:15 January 26 - Destroyer appeared broad on starboard bow. Details not noted as we dove quickly. Were then on equator, longitude 118-50E.

0509 January 27 - Sighted destroyer 30 miles, bearing 1250T from Tg. Mangkalahit Light. Again no details as dove promptly.

ENCLOSURE (A) 934

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1208 January 28 - Sighted two (2) transports and two (2) destroyers bearing 1300T distance 25 miles from Tg.Mangkalahiat Light. Transports same type as previously sighted, large and single stack. All transports sighted smoked very badly. Destroyers appeared to be of Kaja class.

0002 January 29 - Attacked by destroyer while in Makassar Strait. No details.

0710 January 30 - Sighted destroyer in Makassar Strait. Visibility not too good and dove immediately.

0723 February 2 - Sighted destroyer, Kaja class, on course 050° T. Speed estimated at 20 knots. Position latitude 0, longitude 119-02E.

0442 February 8 - Sighted submarine believed to have been SARGO about 20 miles southwest of Cape Mander. Headed north.

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

Description of all aircraft sighted
No aircraft was sighted during entire patrol.

-9-

— page 24 —
1. Made approach and attack on steamer of Suwa Maru type. Had reached firing position 700 on bow with estimated range of 2200 yards when depth control was lost due to rough sea. When periscope depth was regained, fired three (3) torpedoes set at 15 feet. Estimated track 1200 starboard, estimated range 3750 yards, estimated speed 12 knots. Fired torpedoes normally using firing key in conning tower. Applied spread by shifting point of aim, firing first torpedo ahead, second in middle of target, and third astern. All torpedoes ran hot. Time to explosion indicated that last torpedo hit and that firing range must have been about 4250 yards. Torpedoes were set for low speed. Ship sank in fifteen (15) minutes.

Phase III

No remarks.

Phase IV

January 25 - Made approach on convoy of two (2) transports and two (2) destroyers. Had reached position ahead by running on surface and dove during early twilight. Before attack position could be obtained or target distinguished through periscope, one of screen picked us up and came in. Went deep and did not fire. January 26 - Made approach on formation of two (2) transports and two (2) destroyers. Had reached a position when range was 7000 yards when zig put us dead ahead of port screen and 50 on port bow of leading transport. Went deep, expecting to come up later to fire by periscope or if necessary to fire a sound shot. Sound conditions were apparently very poor as sound could never pick up screws of either transport and only occasionally of destroyer. Screen apparently had fairly good idea of our location, for he kept searching for us at such a close range that a periscope exposure appeared too dangerous. When an exposure was made, transports were found to have altered course radically away leaving one screen to fend off any attack by us. Did not fire.

— page 25 —
U.S.S. STINGRAY

G  Particulars of any attacks made (Continued)

Phase Y

No remarks.

-11- ENCLOSURE (A) 938

— page 26 —
0-0-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-I_
H Enemy anti-submarine measures and action taken to avoid
Phase I
No remarks.
Phase II
The one (1) destroyer seen during this period was pinging, but it appeared obvious that it was merely perfunctory and he did not expect to find anything. This in spite of the fact that we had sunk a ship in that same locality 5 days previously. The ship sunk was zig-zagging, but was unescorted and after the attack, no apparent search was made for us by other craft.

Phase II
No convoy of more than two (2) transports and two (2) destroyers was sighted, so the following remarks may not apply to larger convoys. However, as far as noted, the screens have no fixed positions, but apparently rose at will. Seem to use a TBS, operating on a frequency of 10.9 megacycles but whether transports were so equipped is not certain. Although at times appeared so from amount of conversation on the air. Transports did not zig-zag at the same time or to the same course. At one time we had a 400 port angle on one and a 500 starboard angle on the other. Often a destroyer would cut directly across from one side of the formation to the other and for no apparent reason. However, our presence seemed to be suspected and destroyers managed to patrol so that one was between us and the transports at all times. They "ping" continuously and with maximum volume. However, the search does not appear to be very effective for only once were we sure one had definitely picked us up and while he shifted to automatic keying and came in at high speed on a constant bearing, did not drop depth charges. So may have not been too certain of our location. However, in three (3) cases the STINGRAY was definitely attacked by destroyers and depth-charged. In all cases the attack was at night with the destroyers favored by a darker background, so it is believed that we were sighted in the normal manner and not picked up by Radar or other mechanical or acoustical means. The types of attacks were the same and not preceded by any preliminary pinging or warning. When sighted, the destroyer would be headed at us at high speed apparently coming in on a bearing and with an estimated range for one dropped his charges very close (a straddle), one fairly close, and one not within five or six hundred yards. In no case was there any subsequent search nor was any pinging heard. The only occasion even resembling a sustained attack in the three (3) attacks above occurred the early morning of

— page 27 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

H
:  Enemy anti-submarine measures and action taken to avoid (Continued)

Phase II (Continued)

January 29 when the destroyer dropped four (4) charges and ten minutes later dropped four (4) more in the same spot as nearly as we could tell. We were further away by this time.

-13-

— page 28 —
0-N-F-I-D-E-N-I-L-A-L
I  Major defects and casualties

The serious need of a forty (40) foot periscope in the No.2 position was brought out very strongly. In rough water depth control at less than 5.0 knots is impossible if enough periscope is out to even make a pretence of sweeping the horizon.

No casualty occurred of any serious importance. Main motor grounds developed on two occasions but were cleared up after a few hours cleaning. The outboard exhaust valves on both after engines have become warped to such an extent that it is necessary to keep the drain lines closed when submerged. These should be repaired before another patrol as a severe depth charge attack that carried away either one or both of these drain lines would endanger the ship. Leaks developed in the exhaust headers of both auxiliary engines, which should be repaired. At present a temporary line is rigged for one (1) engine, but this is not satisfactory and the production of battery water is endangered.

Various sections of piping in the salt water systems (trim, flushing, fuel compensating) developed leaks during the patrol and were repaired with patches, but either renewal of the failed section or more complete repairs should be accomplished. From the point of habitibility, it is considered necessary that repairs be made to both air-conditioning plants so that they operate at the maximum efficiency. During the last patrol, one unit was inoperative, and its absence sorely felt.

— page 29 —
15
U.S.S. STINGRAY

General remarks
The health of the crew was excellent, no illness of any seriousness developing. Since reaching more tropical waters numerous cases of prickly heat have occurred but it is believed that air and sunshine will soon cure these.

No attempt was made to turn night into day, nor is such procedure considered necessary.

— page 34 —
U.S.S. STINGRAY
: C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-1-A-L
: TRACK CHART PHASE IV
: Point No. Time Course Remarks.
: 1 January 25, 1942
: 1 0535 170 Submerged near Makassar Strait.
: 2 0636 210 Slighted distant ship bearing 0900T, opposite course.
: 3 0716 210 Surfaced.
: 4 0726 210 0851 0857 296 Obtained fix by bearings on shore.
: 5 0726 210 Latitude 0-40N longitude 119-370E.
: 6 0726 210 0851 0857 296 Obtained fix by bearings on shore.
: 7 0726 210 Latitude 0-40N longitude 119-370E.
: 8 1058 1058 1254 1322

— page 35 —
IN REPLY
:  REFER TO:

U. S. S. STINGRAY

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

Track Chart    Phase IV

Point No.    Time    Course    Remarks

January 26, 1942

31    1722    co to 145
32    1749    co to 210
33    1806    co to 190
34    1835    co to 200
35    1843    200    Star fix latitude 0-025 longitude 118-48E.
36    1915    200    Sighted 1 destroyer dead ahead returning from convoy to attack. Submerged and was depth charged.

37    1955    co to 045    Surfaced.

38    2205    045    Surfaced.

39    2251    co to 032

January 27, 1942

40    0255    co to 296
41    0355    co to 116
42    0500    co to 296
43    0509    296    Sighted destroyer bearing 300°T. Submerged and was depth charged.

44    0555    co to 070
45    0810    co to 000
46    0942    co to 090
47    1839    co to 180
48    1951    co to 333    Surfaced. Star fix latitude 0-40N longitude 119-37E.

49    2025    co to 000
50    2141    co to 090
51    2147    co to 170
52    2235    co to 190
53    2244    co to 240
54    2301    co to 270
55    2343    co to 090

January 28, 1942

56    0004    co to 280
57    0137    co to 180
58    0224    co to 030
59    0241    co to 000

(2)

— page 36 —
U.S.S. STINGRAY
G-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Soerabaja, Java,
February 12, 1942.

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 60       | 0306  | cc to 010| Slighted smoke bearing 0160 T                                          |
| 61       | 0320  | cc to 045|                                                                        |
| 62       | 0343  | cc to 180|                                                                        |
| 33       | 0348  | cc to 225|                                                                        |
| 64       | 0348  | cc to 225| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 65       | 0530  | cc to 000|                                                                        |
| 66       | 0723  | cc to 270|                                                                        |
| 67       | 0905  | 270    | Slighted smoke bearing 0240T (1 destroyer - 1 auxiliary)          |
| 68       | 0952  | cc to 080| Heard echo ranging dead ahead. Went to 150 feet, for sound approach. |
| 69       | 1007  | cc to 150| Forced to deep submergence by destroyer.                                 |
| 70       | 1047  | cc to 210|                                                                        |
| 71       | 1108  | cc to 090| Unable to close.                                                              |
| 72       | 1208  | 090    | Slighted smoke bearing 0240T (1 destroyer - 1 auxiliary)          |
| 73       | 1305  | cc to 030| Heard echo ranging dead ahead. Went to 150 feet, for sound approach. |
| 74       | 1350  | 030    | Forced to deep submergence by destroyer.                                     |
| 75       | 1919  | cc to 180|                                                                        |
| 76       | 1935  | cc to 090| Surface.                                                                  |
| 77       | 2000  | 090    | Star fir latitude 0-34N longitude 119-15E.                                    |
| 78       | 2120  | cc to 270|                                                                        |
| 79       | 2223  | cc to 090|                                                                        |
| 80       | 2322  | cc to 310|                                                                        |

January 29, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 81       | 0000  | cc to 090| Sighted destroyer bearing 2000T. Submerged. Attacked twice with depth charges. |
| 82       | 0446  | cc to 000|                                                                        |
| 83       | 0651  | 000    | Slighted fishing boat bearing 3090T, 8000 yards.                          |
| 84       | 0658  | cc to 045|                                                                        |
| 85       | 1035  | 045    | Surfaced.                                                                 |
| 86       | 1055  | cc to 030|                                                                        |

(3)

— page 37 —
IN REPLY
REFER TO:

U. S. S. STINGRAY
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Soerabaja, Java,
February 12, 1942.

TRACK CHART    PHASE IV

Point No.  Time   Course    Remarks
87    1600   cc to 270    Submerged.
88    1936  270    Surfaced.
89    2000  270    Star fix latitude 1-36N longitude
    119-50E.
90    2006   cc to 165
91    2335   cc to 300

January 30, 1942

92    0047   cc to 120
93    0138   cc to 300
94    0234   cc to 120
95    0327   cc to 210
96    0343   cc to 300
97    0404   cc to 030
98    0413   cc to 090    Sighted destroyer bearing 2700T.
    Submerged.
99    0450   cc to 250
100    0631   cc to 210
101    1154   cc to 296
102    1929   cc to 065
103    1954  065    Surfaced.
104    2005   cc to 085
105    2054   cc to 030
106.    2114   cc to 060
107    2130  060

January 31, 1942

108    0022   cc to 050
109    0328   cc to 295
110    0430   cc to 050    Submerged.
111    1926  050    Surfaced.
112    1937   cc to 340
113    2122   cc to 050
114    2255  050    Star fix latitude 2-16N longitude
    120-38E.

(4)

— page 38 —
IN REPLY
:  REFER TO:

U. S. S. STINGRAY

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

TRACK CHART    PHASE IV

Point No.    Time    Course    Remarks

February 1, 1942

115    0018    cc to 180
116    0318    cc to 050
117    0447    cc to 180
118    0500    cc to 230
119    0513    cc to 255
120    1923    cc to 255
121    1940    cc to 210

122    2110    cc to 210

February 2, 1942

123    0007    cc to 245
124    0030    cc to 260
125    0136    cc to 210
126    0504    cc to 270
127    0630    cc to 270

129    0757    cc to 270
130    1927    cc to 080
131    1940    cc to 080
132    2025    cc to 270
133    2100    cc to 270
134    2240    cc to 178

February 3, 1942

135    0423    cc to 090
136    0507    cc to 180
137    2032    cc to 090
138    2050    cc to 090
139    2100    cc to 120
140    2137    cc to 190

February 4, 1942

141    0000    cc to 235    Star fix latitude 2-30S longitude 41E.

(5)

— page 39 —
IN REPLY
:  REFER TO

U. S. S. STINGRAY

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

Track Chart    PHASE IV

Point No.    Time    Course    Remarks

February 4, 1942

142    0032    cc to 185
143    0058    cc to 000
144    0142    cc to 180
145    0222    cc to 185
146    0355    cc to 190
147    0435    cc to 000
148    0507    cc to 190    Submerged.
149    0800    190    Fix by bearing latitude 2-468 longitude
    118-37E.
150    1901    190    Surfaced.
151    1919    cc to 000
152    1954    cc to 180
153    2000    180    Fix by bearing latitude 3-135
    longitude 118-29E.

154    2058    cc to 000
155    2258    cc to 180

February 5, 1942

156    0059    cc to 010
157    0300    cc to 180    Submerged.
158    0510    cc to 000    Fix by bearing latitude 3-38S
159    0800    cc to 345    longitude 118-32E.

160    1354    cc to 090
161    1513    cc to 000
162    1909    000    Surfaced.
163    1935    cc to 180
164    2000    180    Fix by bearings latitude
    3-098, longitude 118-35E.

165    2205    cc to 090
166    2235    cc to 000

February 6, 1942

168    0259    cc to 185
169    0447    cc to 000
170    0503    000    Submerged.
171    0800    000    Fix by bearings, latitude 2-508,
    longitude 118-36E.

— page 40 —
U.S.S. STINGRAY
:  C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
:  Track Chart
:  Phase IV
:  Point No.  Time  Course  Remarks
:  February 6, 1942
:  172  0900  co to 180
:  173  1905 180  Surfaced.
:  174  1917  co to 220
:  (7)
:  953

— page 41 —
1/1/1942
: USS Stingray
: War Patrol
: Sheet #1 = 25-28 Jan. 1942

: USS Stingray
: War Patrol
: Sheet #1

— page 46 —
1-1-42 CSAF serial 81 STINGRAY change area to that between longitude 110-30 and 108-55 and between latitude 17-30 and Hainan coast.

: 1-17-42 CSAF serial 17 STINGRAY proceed Celebes Sea via Baialan.

: 1-19-42 CSAF serial 27 STINGRAY use Sibutu Pass.

: 1-23-42 CSAF serial 54 STINGRAY speed up towards Makassar. STINGRAY and SEAWOLF will probably pass in Sibutu Pass.

: 1-25-42 CSAF serial 66 STINGRAY patrol Mangkalahat-North Watcher line. Look out for crippled cruisers. STINGRAY contact report not received. Send it again.

: 1-31-42 CSAF serial 4 Patrol Davao-Makassar line west of 1220.

: 2-1-42 CSAF serial 14 STINGRAY patrol between Makassar Strait and 10 S.

: 2-2-42 CSAF serial 21 Take deep water channel off C. William.

: 2-7-42 CSAF serial 45 Take patrol station west of line between Cape Mander and Kapopsang lights.

: 2-8-42 CSAF serial 48 STINGRAY continue Soerabaja.

: 2-8-42 CSAF serial 50 Report amount of fuel on board.

: 2-9-42 CSAF serial 56 STINGRAY be designated point February 10.

— page 47 —
U.S.S. STINGRAY
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
IN REPLY
REFER TO:

Track Chart    Phase II

January 3, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 1        | 0535  | cc to 315| Arrived on station off Hainan. Submerged.                          |
| 2        | 0601  |        |                                                                         |
| 3        | 1709  | cc to 145|                                                                         |
| 4        | 1918  |        |                                                                         |
| 5        | 2055  | cc to 280|                                                                         |
| 6        | 2242  | cc to 080|                                                                         |

January 4, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 7        | 0140  | cc to 260|                                                                         |
| 8        | 0428  | cc to 080|                                                                         |
| 9        | 0600  | cc to 320| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 10       | 1512  | cc to 150|                                                                         |
| 11       | 1919  | cc to 225| Star fix latitude 17-18 N 109-09 E Set 242 Drift 1.0 knots. |
| 12       | 2105  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 13       | 2217  | cc to 070|                                                                         |

January 5, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 14       | 0415  | cc to 280| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 15       | 0600  |        |                                                                         |
| 16       | 1857  | cc to 090| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 17       | 2230  | cc to 0270| Star fix latitude 17-43 N, longitude 109-30 E Set 180 Drift 0.2 Knots. |
| 18       | 0130  | cc to 090|                                                                         |
| 19       | 0430  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 20       | 0530  | cc to 340| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 21       | 1200  | cc to 170| Sighted ship 0760 true, distance approximately 8 miles opposite and parallel course. |
| 22       | 1231  | cc to 125|                                                                         |
| 23       | 1845  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 24       | 1907  |        |                                                                         |

January 6, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 18       | 0130  | cc to 090|                                                                         |
| 19       | 0430  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 20       | 0530  | cc to 340| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 21       | 1200  | cc to 170|                                                                         |
| 22       | 1231  | cc to 125|                                                                         |
| 23       | 1845  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 24       | 1907  |        |                                                                         |

January 6, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 18       | 0130  | cc to 090|                                                                         |
| 19       | 0430  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 20       | 0530  | cc to 340| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 21       | 1200  | cc to 170| Sighted ship 0760 true, distance approximately 8 miles opposite and parallel course. |
| 22       | 1231  | cc to 125|                                                                         |
| 23       | 1845  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 24       | 1907  |        |                                                                         |

January 6, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 18       | 0130  | cc to 090|                                                                         |
| 19       | 0430  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 20       | 0530  | cc to 340| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 21       | 1200  | cc to 170|                                                                         |
| 22       | 1231  | cc to 125|                                                                         |
| 23       | 1845  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 24       | 1907  |        |                                                                         |

January 6, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 18       | 0130  | cc to 090|                                                                         |
| 19       | 0430  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 20       | 0530  | cc to 340| Submerged.                                                                 |
| 21       | 1200  | cc to 170|                                                                         |
| 22       | 1231  | cc to 125|                                                                         |
| 23       | 1845  | cc to 270|                                                                         |
| 24       | 1907  |        |                                                                         |

— page 48 —
IN REPLY
:  REFER TO.

U. S. S. STINGRAY

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

Track Chart    Phase II

January 6, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks |
||-------|||
| 25       | 1949  | cc to 000 |         |
| 26       | 2040  | cc to 090 |         |
| 27       | 2230  | cc to 270 |         |
| 28       | 2245  | 270     | Sighted unidentified object bearing 3150T, distance approximately 4 miles. Submerged. Lost object. Surfaced. |
| 29       | 2328  | 270     |         |

January 7, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks |
||-------|||
| 30       | 0044  | cc to 090 |         |
| 31       | 0230  | cc to 270 |         |
| 32       | 0400  | 270     | Star fix latitude 17-35 N longitude 108-50 E. Set 225. Drift 0.6 knots. |
| 33       | 0442  | cc to 090 |         |
| 34       | 0531  | cc to 045 |         |
| 35       | 0616  | 045     | Submerged. |
| 36       | 0710  | cc to 120 |         |
| 37       | 1003  | cc to 090 |         |
| 38       | 1310  | cc to 270 |         |
| 39       | 1901  | 270     | Surfaced. |
| 40       | 1918  | cc to 090 |         |
| 41       | 2135  | cc to 270 |         |

January 8, 1942

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks |
||-------|||
| 42       | 0010  | cc to 090 |         |
| 43       | 0322  | cc to 270 |         |
| 44       | 0400  | 270     | Star fix latitude 17-16N, longitude 109-07E. Set 180. Drift 0.9 knots. |
| 45       | 0501  | cc to 035 |         |
| 46       | 0557  | 035     | Submerged. |
| 47       | 0847  | cc to 090 |         |
| 48       | 1325  | cc to 270 |         |
| 49       | 1855  | 270     | Surfaced. Star fix latitude 17-53 longitude 109-07E. Set 000. Drift 1.7 knots. |

(2)

961

— page 49 —
U.S.S. STINGRAY
: C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
: January 8, 1942
: Point No. Time Course Remarks
: 50 1904 cc to 090
: 51 1949 cc to 065
: 52 2111 cc to 270
: 53 2226 cc to 090
: 54 2343 cc to 270
: January 9, 1942
: 55 0050 cc to 090
: 56 0200 cc to 270
: 57 0300 cc to 090
: 58 0412 cc to 270
: 59 0519 cc to 090
: 60 0558 090
: Submerged, patrolled on east and west courses until 1901, going 6 miles east and 3 miles west each leg.
: Starfaced.
: Star fir latitude 17-54N longitude 109-20E. Set 225. Drift 0.3 knots. 63 to 64 patrolling on 090°T, and reverse, 15 miles each leg until submerging.
: Sighted large transport 3300T - 6000 yards.
: Fired 3 - 1 hit - 5200 yards.
: Surface.
: Star fir latitude 17-38 longitude 109-30 Set 250. Drift 0.3 knots.
: 65 0657 cc to 270
: 66 0821 cc to 330
: 67 0842 cc to 135
: 68 1757 cc to 045
: 69 1909 045
: 70 1945 cc to 090
: 71 2156 cc to 180
: 73 2222 cc to 270
: January 11, 1942
: 74 0350 cc to 090
: Last plotted point #74 latitude 17-38 longitude 108-45.
: (3)

— page 51 —
U.S.S. STINGRAY
:  U-0-N-F-1-D-E-N-T-1-A-L
:  Track Chart  Phase II
:  January 13, 1942
:  Point No.  Time  Course  Remarks
:  101  1858  270  Star fix latitude 17-46N, longitude 106-59E. Set 245. Drift 1.0 knots.
:  102  1906  270  Seaplane.
:  103  1943  cc to 000
:  104  2032  cc to 090
:  105  2328  cc to 270  Patrolled on 270 and reverse, 20 miles each leg until submerging.

:  January 14, 1943
:  106  0604  270  Submerged.
:  107  1046  cc to 090  Several small sailboats observed in near vicinity during a.m. and early p.m.
:  108  1423  cc to 270  during a.m. and early p.m.
:  109  1810  cc to 000
:  110  1842  cc to 000
:  111  1903  000  Surfaced. Star fix latitude 17-51N longitude 109-01E.Set 255. Drift, 1.2 knots.
:  112  1917  cc to 270
:  113  1931  cc to 000
:  114  1950  cc to 090
:  115  January 15, 1942
:  115  0114  cc to 280
:  116  0553  cc to 090  Submerged.
:  117  0754  cc to 050  Sighted ship bearing 0900T, distance 12000 yards, Attempted to close target.
:  118  0807  cc to 000
:  119  0831  cc to 090  Could not close target.
:  120  0944  cc to 270  Patrolling on 270 and reverse, 5 miles each leg until surfacing.
:  121  1856  cc to 270  Surfaced.
:  122  1924  cc to 090
:  123  2058  cc to 270

— page 52 —
IN REPLY
:  REFER TO:

U.S.S. STINGRAY

Track Chart Phase II

| Point No. | Time  | Course | Remarks                                                                 |
||-------|||
| 124     | 2227  | cc to 090 | Patrolling on 090 and reverse, 12 miles each leg, until submerging. |
| 125     | 0430  | 090    | Submerged.                                                                 |
| 126     | 0635  | cc to 270 | Patrolling on 270 and reverse until surfacing, 5 miles each leg. Surfac. Star fix latitude 17-39N longitude 109-04E. Set 2170. Drift 0.8 knots. |
| 127     | 1852  | 270    |                                                                          |
| 128     | 1937  | cc to 090 |                                                                          |
| 129     | 2315  | cc to 270 |                                                                          |
| 130     | 0042  | cc to 090 |                                                                          |
| 131     | 0606  | cc to 270 |                                                                          |
| 132     | 0940  | cc to 090 |                                                                          |
| 133     | 1858  | cc to 270 |                                                                          |
| 134     | 1939  | cc to 090 |                                                                          |
| 135     | 2345  | cc to 140 |                                                                          |
|         |       |        | Patrolling on 090 and reverse 7 miles each leg, until surfacing. Surfac. Star fix latitude 17-52N, longitude 109-15E. Set 050. Drift 0.8 knots. Patrolling on 090 and reverse, 15 miles each leg, until leaving station. Left area and proceeded to Uelebes Sea. |

— page 53 —
3
S.S. STINGRAY
REPORT TO:
CONFIDENTIAL
DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1
BY
[Signature]
DATE: 9/19/47

[Handwritten notes and annotations]

[Handwritten notes and

— page 54 —
2014 March 10, 1942 to 2127 March 26, 1942.
Area:  Enroute cargo boat, transmittal, W.A. to first patrol station.
Kills steamed - 1502
Fuel burned - 10,169 gallons

: 2127 March 26, 1942 to 2100 April 5, 1942.
Area:  Northern coasts of North and North Islands and West Pacific.
Kills steamed - 1240.
Fuel burned - 6670 gallons.

: 2100 April 5, 1942 to 2110 April 19, 1942.
Area:  North or carrier between North and Java and south of Celebes.
Kills steamed - 1830
Fuel burned - 14,620 gallons.

: 2110 April 19, 1942 to 0034 April 26, 1942.
Area:  Java Sea, Soranai-jakassar and Scerabaj-Jakassar routes, Lockout Strait.
Kills steamed - 940
Fuel burned - 8600 gallons

: 0034 April 26, 1942 to 0045 May 2, 1942.
Area:  Enroute Lendon Strait to Fremantle, W.A.
Kills steamed - 1425
Fuel burned - 14245 gallons

— page 55 —
1. Brief narrative including time and position of any incidents of note.

PHASE 1

March 16 - 2014 Uncrewed from cargo Road, Fremantle, W.A.
March 17 - 0811 Sighted Piri plane and established communications on 7:30o Kcs. Seas were too rough to use vertical antenna so did not attempt to dive and establish submerged contact.

March 21 - 1836 Sighted oil tanker neared south.
March 24 - 1856 Sighted U.S.S. S-37, neared south.
March 24 - 1856 Received S/SER serial no. 82, ordering us to investigate near report in Lat. 15, Long. 121. Changed course to pass through point.
March 24 - 1856 At 0500 passed through point designated above, noting sighted. Using U.S. position, not too accurate. At sunset, obtained first fix in four days, knowing us to be south and east of D.N. position.
March 24 - 1915 At 2150, acting passed through designated point, sighted. Noting sighted.
March 26 - 1915 At 2127 obtained moonlight fix by miles. On course 16, 16.00, sighted.
March 26 - 1915 At 2127 obtained moonlight fix by miles. On course 16, 16.00, sighted.

PHASE 2

March 27 - Received S/SER serial no. 90, assigning area north coast of North and West Passage. Were headed in to harass Kurgan Bay at time, so no change in plans was made. Watering day reached entrance of Kurgan Bay, and we were ordered to proceed to 16.00. At 1923 observed small fire inside of bay. At 1923 observed small fire

— page 58 —
2020 sighted destroyer bearing 0797, range estimated as 5000 yards, course 2700. Dove as apparently we were undetected and did not desire to dislodge our presence in vicinity if possible to avoid being seen. Sound could not pick up screen noises, so destroyer apparently continued on its way.

At 2030 sighted anti-pershing 354, apparently patroling 100 feet from curve of Kamasar City. A few minutes later turned to north and disappeared. Believe it to have been Weaktake class destroyer and the same one sighted previous night.

At 2313 sighted patroling destroyer. Fired three torpedoes from stern tubes in accordance with policy laid down in CBAR Serial 81. No hits. With presence displeased, needed for pass south of Pulasi.

Patrolling pass south of Pulasi.

Patrolling between 2g. Petang and 2g. Lailang (Celebes) to cover any traffic between Saleler Strait and Kamasar City.

Patrolling traffic into the between Alor and Kamasar City south of Kalas.

At 2138 sighted destroyer bearing 250° T, relative steering 280, distance 7000 yards. Apparently we were not sighted, for he continued on his way.

Patrolling along 100 feet from curve of 2g. Lailang (Celebes) to cover any traffic between Saleler Strait and Kamasar City.

April 16
April 17
April 18
April 19

PLEASE INCLUDE ALL ATTACHED DOCUMENTS

April 20 - 25 Patrolling in Java Sea, covering Soerabaja-Kamasar city and Soerabaja-Karimata routes. During entire period, nothing sighted except dozens of fishing boats, all apparently friendly. An corrective patrol could not be maintained at nights even at slow speeds with sound heads manned as visibility conditions were too poor. Sea was like glass and due to irrit-like effect, there was a haze on list covering the surface that limited vision to a few thousand yards. The many sailboats, some lighted, some dark, caused numerous false alarms, and a constant effort was required to keep the lookouts from adopting an attitude that anything sighted was not "just another fishing boat".

— page 59 —
U.S.S. STINGRAY

April 25
At 21:55 a.m. the object veering 1450° distance 9000 yards. Was tentatively identified as a ship, type unknown apparently named on opposite and parallel course. Disappeared in a few minutes, possibly submerged. When after 45 minutes had not again been seen or picked up by sound, continued on.

April 28
At 03:34 completed transit of Lookout Strait and headed for transmittal. End of Phase IV.

Page 1
At 0805 sighted patrol plane. Anchored a challenge and reply. At 1420 sighted reenchantment bearing 1100°, range 8000 yards course estimated at 345°. From location, presumed to be friendly.

At 2345 placed up look of hottest Island Light bearing 1260°, distance estimated as 29 miles.

Key 1
At 0345 reenforced challenge and reply with escort vessel (U.S.S. ISABEL). End of Patrol.

Page 2
At 0350 reenforced challenge and reply with escort vessel (U.S.S. ISABEL). End of Patrol.

— page 60 —
1
PHASE 1
March 16 - 18
March 19
March 20-26

PHASE 1
March 27-APRIL 5
PHASE 1
April 6 - 12
April 13-15
April 16 - 19

PHASE 1
April

— page 61 —
7 DIAL INFORMATION:
PASS I
No remarks.

PASS II
When needed on northeasterly course from Kupanay, we are effected by a strong northerly current of approximately 1.5 knots during night. On Cotei passage, current on eastern side tends to follow contour of Ticor Islands, setting in south easterly direction at about 1 knot.

PASS III
A current of approximately 1 knot, following the contour of the low latitude curve, and setting to westward was noted between Seller Street and Tg. Laking.

PASS IV
No currents noted, except in Locker Street were a current of 1.5 to 2.0 knots to southwest was encountered during transit of the Strait.

PASS V
No remarks.

(C-1)

— page 63 —
1/1

U.S.S. STINGRAY
Freemont, Australia,
May 2, 1942.

Description of enemy warships or merchant ships or other
craft sighted, including position, course and speed, and
time of appearance.

F-ASB
March 17 - At 1539 sighted oil tanker near end of southerly
course, STRONGY position at time being Lat. 29-34, Long.
113-36E. Was too far to westward to identify definitely,
but three appearance and position, believe it to have been
U.S.S. THU-MIT.

PHASE 11
March 27 - At 1710 sighted ship at anchor near Kapan Bay.
Believe it to have been STRONGY (CL).
March 28 - At 0914, 0946, and 1016 sighted destroyers
northbound in and at entrance of Kapan Bay. First
two appear to be SLIGHTLY close, while third was of
AUCKLAND type.
At 1026 sighted transport underway in Kapan Bay
apparently heading out. Due to rain squall, little
more than outline could be determined and no attempt
was made to classify. Had time for quick look and little
more.

April 4 - At 0930 sighted transport headed into MILIT.
Had COE up coast close in for direction of Kapan
Bay. No estimate of speed could be made, but type was
similar to ARIZONA VAHU (photo 3-02).
At 1725 sighted same transport, a smaller one or un-
determined type and a SLIGHTLY close destroyer, headed
out of MILIT on a north westerly course. When lost
in darkness, course had been changed to north and all
three were passing between Alor and Kambing Islands.

PHASE 111
April 14 - At 2020 sighted destroyer bearing 07°0'0', course
speed 10-12 knots, apparently patrolling off southern
entrance to Kambing City. We were then 10 miles bearing
215° from T.g. LALAKAN. Tentatively identified as WAATAK
class destroyer.

(Z-1)

— page 64 —
1/2

U.S.S. STINGRAY

Fremantle, Australia,
Key 2, 1942.

April 15 - At 0630 sighted destroyer bearing 3540, came 1000 yards, estimated course 2350, estimated speed 10 knots. A. aircraft patrolling along 1000 yards, course 0° 0' 0", making 10 knots. At 0945, destroyer changed course to northward and sighted a freighter. Delayed to move due to enemy action. At 2313 sighted destroyer bearing 3160, course 1340 estimated speed 8 knots. Were then 20 miles SW of T. L.

— page 65 —
1
PASS 1
March 17 - At well sighted American Pay.
PASS 11
No aircraft sighted.
PASS 111
No aircraft sighted.
PASS IV
No aircraft sighted.

PASS V
May 1 at 0605 sighted Per patrol plane headed north
Lat. 30-078, Long. 115-435. At 1420 sighted HAAY twin engine bomber (Lookheed Hudson) headed south west.
Lat 30-445, Long. 114-178.

(1-1)

— page 67 —
15

U.S.S. STINGRAY
Freantle, Australia,
May 2, 1942.

no radical change of course, although later sound reported he stopped about one minute after first torpedo was fired and a few seconds later a dull thud as if a torpedo had hit, but no explosion.
The decision to fire a full next at one destroyer was based on the realization that if an attack were to be made on the transports seen to be underway, it was first necessary to dispose of the petroling destroyers. With the nearest one definitely eliminated, time would be available to either evade the second one or sink it, make a reload, and still reach an attacking position. Failure to hit forced a cancellation of these plans.

PASS AT
April 15 - at 2315 sighted a destroyer bearing 310°C, distance 4000 yards estimated speed 8 knots. Turned to fire with stern three, at 2310 fired 3 torpedoes at an estimated range of 2500 yards, track angle 74° port, circling gyro angles of 350° (LCL). Shrugged was on surface at the time, and spread was applied by varying the point of air through the port T.S.R. while light method. All torpedoes set to run at 6 feet. No hits. Just before firing, cloud of smoke was observed from destroyer astern and it is believed that he made a radical change of course and speed at this time, change that were not immediately detected due to visibility. You set-up had checked on up to instant of firing.

PASS AT
no attack made.

PASS AT
no attack made.

(us)

— page 68 —
1
no remarks.

PHASE 1
no remarks.

PHASE 2
no remarks.

Karch 27 - no activity seen at all in Kupang bay and
derisively no anti-submarine patrol was
at entrance to harbor, nor could any patrolling
vessels be seen inside.

Karch 28 - two destroyers were patrolling inside harbor
on various courses, accompanied by much loud
"pinging". We were in to a 6000 yard range
on each, but were apparently undetected. A
third destroyer was also patrolling the entrance
to Kupang bay following the 100 fathom curve
very closely. Have no indication that any of
the three had definitely picked us up until
firing although the one on our starboard bow
was cooling in on a steady bearing.

After firing, no immediate attack by the
approaching destroyers was made. Difficulty
was experienced in going deep, nor on reaching
170 feet bounced back up to 130 feet like a
rubber ball. Eventually required full speed
and negative tank flooded to penetrate below
the 170 foot layer. Was ten to fifteen minutes
after firing before destroyers reached an
attacking position and then they had difficulty
locating us. At least two and possibly three,
apparently searched for several hours, and it was
only as we would start up to periscope depth that
they would close in. The first time we were up
to 200 feet before the depth charge attack, the
second time to 230 feet.

Tried to keep end on to nearest one and run
at slow speed, but aside from that no evasive
tactics were required. A temperature gradient
of 100 between surface and 250 rest undoubtably
aided escape materially.

(1-1)

— page 81 —
3.3. STORY
Presently, Australia,
May 2, 1942.

TRACK: CAZ
PHASE IV

April 21, 1942

Point No. | Time | Course | Remarks
---|---|---|---
43 | 0730 | 00 to 240 | Surface.
44 | 1640 | 00 to 270 | Star fix lat 6-lbs Long 114-37.0x.
45 | 1846 | 270 | Star fix lat 6-lbs Long 114-37.0x.

April 22, 1942

46 | 0153 | 00 to 340 | Submerged.
47 | 0226 | 00 to 270 | Surface.
48 | 0249 | 00 to 270 | Submerged.
49 | 0353 | 00 to 300 | Surface.
50 | 0409 | 00 to 270 | Submerged.
51 | 0440 | 00 to 300 | Surface.
52 | 0502 | 00 to 270 | Submerged.
53 | 0531 | 00 to 250 | Surface.
54 | 1849 | 00 to 270 | Submerged.
55 | 1850 | 00 to 270 | Surface.
56 | 1947 | 00 to 120 | Submerged.
57 | 2010 | 00 to 026 | Submerged.
58 | 2025 | 00 to 275 | Submerged.
59 | 2046 | 00 to 020 | Submerged.
60 | 2055 | 00 to 045 | Submerged.
61 | 2112 | 00 to 000 | Submerged.
62 | 2131 | 00 to 315 | Submerged.
63 | 2146 | 00 to 270 | Submerged.
64 | 2311 | 00 to 225 | Submerged.
65 | 2339 | 00 to 270 | Submerged.

April 23, 1942

66 | 0417 | 00 to 315 | Submerged.
67 | 0521 | 00 to 135 | Submerged.
68 | 0547 | 00 to 270 | Submerged.
69 | 0637 | 00 to 270 | Submerged.
70 | 0718 | 00 to 315 | Submerged.
71 | 1041 | 00 to 315 | Submerged.
72 | 1847 | 00 to 090 | Submerged.
73 | 1904 | 090 | Submerged.
74 |  |  | Submerged.

April 24, 1942.

75 | 0536 | 090 | Submerged.

(10)