U.S.S. GREENLING (SS-213) — war patrol report SS-213_GREENLING_Part1.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: F-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-89-78]
OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: Hancock]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: MAY 19, 1978]

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THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[IMAGE: Department of Defense Seal with text "DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA"]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET. START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

— page 2 —
[HANDWRITTEN: GREENLING (SS-213)
WWII PATROL FILE
FOR DECK LOG JANUARY 1942 - DECEMBER 1945
CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES WHICH HAS CUSTODY.
ALL MATERIAL ON THIS REEL IS DECLASSIFIED.

J.A. KOONTZ]

— page 3 —
Office Of Naval Records and History
Ships' Histories Section
Navy Department

SHIP'S HISTORY OF USS GREENLING (SS-213)

The history of USS GREENLING started at the Electric Boat
Company in Groton, Conn. where the keel was layed 12 November
1940. It officially became a member of the U.S. Navy's Submarine
force on 21 January 1942, when it was commissioned under the
sponsorship of Mrs. R.S. Holmes at the U.S. Submarine Base, New
London, Conn. Lieutenant Commander H.C. Bruton, USN, assumed
command on this day.

After an intense training program, during which the Greenling
was subjected to one of her most severe depth chargings, administered
by a U.S. Navy patrol bomber, this vessel reported to Comsubpac in
March 1942.

FIRST WAR PATROL

GREENLING left Pearl Harbor, T.H., on 20 April, 1942, under
the command of Lieutenant Commander Bruton for patrol in the
vicinity of Truk. On 30 April four attacks were made on a 7,100 ton
armed merchantman, all of which were unsuccessful. The GREENLING
redeemed herself by sinking one loaded 5,800 ton armed merchantman
with a single torpedo on 4 May, 1942. On 16 June, after 57 days
at sea this ship returned to Pearl Harbor for refit. Combat
insignia was awarded.

SECOND WAR PATROL

The second patrol started the string of three highly success-
ful runs which resulted in the awarding of the Presidential Unit
Citation. The ship left Pearl Harbor with the same Commanding
Officer on 10 July, 1942, for vicinity of Truk. Five torpedo
attacks were made, two of which were successful. The fourth
attack, made at night on surface, resulted in the sinking of the
13,000 ton Brazil Maru. A prisoner picked up identified the
target and stated that it was loaded with troops enroute to
Truk. The fifth torpedo attack also made at night on surface
saw the sinking of another loaded passenger ship rated at 10,000
tons. Enroute to Midway for refit the GREENLING encountered and
sank a 50 ton fishing vessel by machine gun fire and boarding.
Refit was undertaken at Midway Island after 53 days at sea. Combat
insignia was awarded. The Commanding Officer received the Navy
Cross.

THIRD WAR PATROL

With Lieutenant Commander Bruton in command for his third patrol
the GREENLING departed Midway on 22 September, 1942, for the waters
off Honshu. During 41 days at sea four ships were sunk by torpedo
fire, one Sampsonky gunfire and a 22,000 ton converted air-
craft carrier was damaged by two torpedoes. The box score for this patrol
follows:

— page 4 —
-2-
USS GREENLING
1 freighter
4,000 Tons
1 torpedo hit
1 freighter
8,000 Tons
2 torpedo hits
1 freighter
9,000 Tons
3 torpedo hits
1 freighter
11,000 Tons
2 torpedo hits
1 Sampan
50 Tons
2 torpedo hits

DAMAGED
1 Converted Carrier
22,000 Tons
2 torpedo hits

FOURTH WAR PATROL

Ninth December, 1942 saw GREENLING leave Pearl Harbor for her
fourth patrol with Lieutenant Commander Bruton as Commanding Officer
This patrol was conducted in the area north of Bougainville Straits.
One day after arrival in area, a 1,500 ton destroyer was sunk with
four torpedo hits. On 30 December, 1942, GREENLING encountered a
four ship convoy off New Ireland. Shortly after contact, the convoy
was reduced to two ships, losing a 9,000 ton tanker and a 5,000
ton freighter as a result of torpedo hits. Eleven days later a
9,000 ton empty tanker was damaged with one torpedo hit. On 16
January, GREENLING sank a loaded cargo vessel with torpedoes and
her small escort by gunfire. Two and three days later a 500 ton
escort vessel and a 1,000 ton freighter were fired at and missed
by single torpedo attacks. After spending two days reconnoitering
Pak and Tong Islands, the GREENLING set course to Brisbane for
refit arriving on the 52nd day at sea. Combat insignia was
awarded. The Commanding Officer received the Navy Cross.

FIFTH WAR PATROL

On 16 February, 1943, H.C. Bruton, who had been advanced to
rank of Commander, USN, was relieved by Lieutenant Commander J.D.
Grant, USN. On 21 February, 1943, GREENLING departed from Brisbane
for the Solomons-Bismarck Area for a patrol lasting 62 days. From
28 February to 2 March, the GREENLING successfully conducted a
special mission. No ships were sunk on this patrol. On 15 March,
after missing a close shot in the midst of a convoy the GREENLING
suffered an extremely severe depth charge attack administered by
two TIDORI class torpedo boats. Brisbane handled the refit
following the patrol. Combat insignia was not awarded.

SIXTH WAR PATROL

Departed Brisbane on 17 May, 1943, under command of Lieutenant
Commander Grant for the Solomons-Bismarck Area. During this 52 day
patrol, one 10,000 ton tanker was damaged with 2 torpedo hits and
two medium freighters were sunk (3,000 tons and 4,000 tons). On
27 June, the Greenling came off second best in an engagement with a
22,000 ton carrier. The submarine fired four torpedoes, all of
which missed and received in exchange several shells and depth
charges without physical damage. The patrol ended 8 July at
Brisbane. Combat insignia was awarded.

— page 5 —
-3- USS GREENLING

SEVENTH WAR PATROL

A special mission occupied GREENLING on the 7th war patrol,
which started on 29 July from Brisbane. This patrol lasted 51 days
ending at Pearl Harbor. Combat Insignia was awarded.

From Pearl Harbor, the GREENLING departed for a very success-
ful two month patrol of San Francisco's Market Street. The base
for this operation was Hunter's Point Navy Yard.

EIGHTH WAR PATROL

Returning from Navy Yard under command of Lieutenant Commander
Grant, GREENLING underwent three weeks intensive training at Pearl
Harbor before leaving for war patrol on 20 December, 1943. This
patrol was made in the Eastern Carolines around Ponape. One 2,000
ton inter-island freighter was sunk with one torpedo hit. Enroute
to Midway Island from the patrol area, two days were spent recon-
noitering Wake Island. On 28 January, 1944, she arrived at Midway
for normal refit. Combat insignia was awarded. During heavy weather
at Midway the USS HALIBUT and GREENLING caused damage to their outer
hulls by bumping while moored together. Both ships were ordered to
Pearl Harbor, arriving 25 February, 1944. Repairs were effected by
16 March, 1944.

NINTH WAR PATROL

Departed Pearl Harbor, 20 March 1944, under Lieutenant
Commander Grant for special mission in the Mariannas Islands. Fifty-
four days later GREENLING returned to Pearl Harbor for refit. Combat
insignia was awarded. The Commanding Officer received the Legion of
Merit.

TENTH WAR PATROL

Six weeks was devoted to main generator overhaul. Prior to
conducting training exercises, Lieutenant Commander J.D. Gerwick, USN,
relieved now Commander J.D. Grant, USN, as Commanding Officer. On
9 July 1944, departed Pearl Harbor in company with USS BILLFISH and
USS SAILFISH. The wolfpack was called "Moseley's Maulers" in honor
of the Officer in Tactical Commander S.P. Moseley, USN. The patrol,
lasting 63 days, was conducted in the South China Sea. The GREENLING
sunk a 100-ton trawler by gunfire, taking one prisoner in the engage-
ment. The patrol area was well covered by enemy aircraft which
continually hampered operations. No contacts worthy of torpedo fire
were made by the GREENLING. Patrol was terminated at Midway Island
where refit was accomplished. Combat insignia was not awarded.

— page 6 —
-4-
USS GREENLING
ELEVENTH WAR PATROL
Departed Midway on 5 October, 1944, under Lieutenant Commander
Gerwick for patrol of the western approaches to Tokyo Bay. Friday,
13 October witnessed the GREENLING miss a medium tanker with four
torpedoes near Chichi Jima. Considerable time was spent near Tokyo
lifeguarding for B-29 reconnaissance flights. One very close bomb
from a Japanese bomber was the reward for these labors. On 7 November,
a convoy of five ships and two escorts was intercepted in Suraga Wan.
A 5,000 ton tanker and 4,000 ton medium freighter were sunk by
torpedoes in the resulting attack. On the morning of 10 November,
a medium tanker and an escorting Waketake destroyer were sighted
crossing Suraga Wan. The destroyer was sunk with one torpedo hit.
The GREENLING arrived at Pearl Harbor on 23 November for normal
refit. Combat insignia was awarded. The Commanding Officer received
the Silver Star.

TWELFTH WAR PATROL
Departed Pearl Harbor 26 December 1944, under command of
Lieutenant Commander Gerwick for patrol in Nansei Shoto of Amanmi
O Shima. The GREENLING was severely handicapped in this patrol due
to inoperative radar. At dawn, 25 January 1945, a nine ship convoy
was sighted. Four Chidori torpedo boat escorts discovered the sub-
marine and delivered a very large and severe three hour depth charge
attack. Serious damage resulted to the hull and operating machinery.

The night of 25 January found the GREENLING heading for Saipan
for emergency repairs.

At Saipan, the damage to the hull was found to be more severe
than previously estimated. The GREENLING was ordered to Pearl Harbor,
arriving on 10 February after 46 days at sea. Several days later,
the ship proceeded to Mare Island Navy Yard for overhaul. Combat
insignia was not awarded

The ship arrived at San Francisco 23 February 1945. A standard
overhaul was undertaken at Mare Island, but the damage to the presure
hull was not repaired. Finishing overhaul on 12 May 1945, the
GREENLING went to Monterey Bay, California, to train Naval Aviators in
Anti-submarine warfare. On 19 July 1945, Commander Gerwick, USN,
was relieved as Commanding Officer by Lieutenant Commander W.H.
McClaskey, USNR.

The 15th of September found the GREENLING in San Diego,
California, undergoing voyage repairs enroute, via Panama Canal, to
New London, Connecticut.

— page 7 —
-5- USS GREENLING
By Directive dated December 1946, USS GREENLING (SS 213) was
later transferred to the FIRST Naval District, for training Naval
Reservists.

***

USS GREENLING earned ten Battle Stars on the Asiatic-Pacific
Area Service Medal, for participating in the following operations:

1 Star/Midway-- 3 to 6 June 1942

1 Star/Marshall Islands Operation
Air Attack Designated by CinCPac on Defended Marshall Islands
targets -- 26 November 1943 to 2 March 1944

1 Star/Makin Raid -- 17 to 18 August 1942

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 10 July to 1 September 1942

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 21 September to 1 November
1942

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 17 May to 8 July 1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 29 July to 17 September 1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 20 March to 12 May 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 9 July to 12 September 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol, Pacific -- 5 October to 23 November
1944

She also earned the PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION for the follow-
ing operations:

First War Patrol, Pacific -- 20 April to 16 June 1942
Second War Patrol, Pacific -- 10 July to 1 September 1942
Third War Patrol, Pacific -- 22 September to 1 November 1942

SUMMARY OF PATROLS

Number of Patrols: 12

Number and Type of Ships Sunk: 2 Large Passenger Ships
12 Freighters
1 Tanker
2 Destroyers
1 Escort Vessel
3 Sampans

Total Tonnage Sunk: 102,500 tons

— page 8 —
-6- USS GREENLING
Number and Type of Ships Damaged: 1 Converted Aircraft Carrier
                                  2 Tankers
Total Tonnage Damaged:            42,000 tons
Successful Special Missions:      1 (War Patrol No. 9)
NOTE: All estimates of sinkings, tonnage, and types sunk are taken
      from the commanding officer's evaluations during the war
      patrols.

                          STATISTICS

OVERALL LENGTH                    312 feet
BEAM                              27 feet
DISPLACEMENT                      1,468 tons
Speed                             20 knots

****

Restenciled: July 1951

— page 9 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 30 APR - 1 JUN 42]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

SS213/A16-3
Serial 016
U.S.S. GREENLING

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED - OPNAV INST 5500.30
BY [HANDWRITTEN: S/C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 11-23-57]]

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: First War Patrol, Report of.

Reference: (a) Submarines, Pacific Fleet, Confidential
Letter No. 3-42.

Enclosure: (A) Report of U.S.S. GREENLING First War
Patrol.

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

Copy to:
CSD 81.
CSS 8.

ENCLOSURE (A)

[HANDWRITTEN: 41533]

— page 11 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of First Patrol.

April 28, 1942.
0550(M) Passed KWAJELEIN Atoll to southward, dist-
          ance 190 miles. Dived for part of day in
          order properly time arrival at ENIWETOC
          Is. the following day.

April 29, 1942.
0609(M) Submerged 16 miles east of ENIWETOK Atoll.

0720(M) Sighted PARRY Is. of ENIWETOK Atoll, dist-
          ance 9 miles.

0731 to 1600(M) Reconnoitered ENIWETOK Atoll submerged.

April 30, 1942.
          Continued on surface toward assigned area.

1717(M) Sighted 7100 T armed merchantman of SADO
          MARU class in Lat. 10-15 N, 156-46 E.
          Submerged and attacked with four (4)
          torpedoes, all of which missed.

2300(M) Made second torpedo attack on same target
          in Lat. 09-32 N, Long 156-03 E. Fired two
          (2) torpedoes without success. Target
          fired two (2) rounds at submarine at 7000
          yds range. Both shells fell far short.

2345(M) Attacked same target with 3" deck gun in
          Lat 09-21 N, Long 155-59 E. Fired ten (10)
          rounds, at least one of which hit. Ceased
          firing when a shell from target, which had
          meanwhile opened fire on us, fell close
          aboard and riccocheted above heads of our
          gun crew.

May 1, 1942.
0547(M) Made fourth attack on same target with two
          (2) torpedoes in Lat 08-58 N, Long 155-15 E.
          First torpedo missed ahead; second torpedo,
          angled toward target and apparently headed

-2-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 12 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of First War Patrol.

                                                for a hit, exploded prematurely after
                                                running about 500 yds.
0551(M)                                         Just as dawn was breaking, a positive plane
                                                echo was picked up by radar, distance 8
                                                miles. Dived and conducted submerged pat-
                                                rol remainder of day while heading toward
                                                area.

1000(M)                                         Entered assigned area at Lat. 9-01 N, Long
                                                155-00 W after a run of ten (10) days from
                                                Pearl.

May 3, 1942.                                    Began submerged patrol in traffic lanes
0603(L)                                         between HALL and NAMONUITO Islands.

May 4, 1942.                                    Sighted small fishing boat about dawn.
0607(L)                                         Heard fast screws of four additional boats
                                                after diving. Nothing in sight through
                                                periscope. Lat. 8-40 N, 150-50 E.

1825(L)                                         Sighted heavily loaded 5,800 T armed
                                                merchantman resembling TACOMA MARU, bearing
                                                060° T, distance 5½ miles, heading for
                                                TRUK. Attacked with one (1) torpedo which
                                                hit target squarely amidships. Ship was
                                                seen to break in two and sink in less
                                                than three (3) minutes. Lat. 8-44N, Long
                                                150-56 E.

2000(L)                                         Surfaces and headed for lane between TRUK
                                                and southern end of NAMONUITO Islands in
                                                event traffic is re-routed in view of above
                                                sinking.

May 5, 1942.                                    Three (3) green Very's flares sighted close
0449(L)                                         aboard. Nothing in sight although full
                                                moon was high and visibility was excellent.
                                                Dived. Several very high speed screws
                                                heard during first few minutes after sub-
                                                mergence. Nothing in sight through periscope

                                                -3-                                     ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 20 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of First War Patrol.
now showing definite signs of fatigue.
Sky nearly 100% cloudy, sea glassy, visi-
bility excellent, radar operative inter-
mittently. Position, 150 miles, bearing
055° T from WAKE.
2145(L) Stopped screws and noisy machinery in order
increase efficacy of sound watch.
2320(L) Most probable time of contacting enemy
force passed. Continues patrol in vicinity
of reported track of enemy.
June 9, 1942.
Conducted submerged patrol during the day
across reported enemy track, the same
conditions prevailing as during the previous
day.
2123(L) Sent message to ComSubPac reporting lack of
contacts, position, course, speed and fuel.
Receipt obtained from NPM on 8470 Kcs.
2332(L) Received message from CTF 7 giving positions
of two enemy units and stating they were
headed for Mandates. This message had
undoubtedly been first transmitted earlier
in the day but was not received submerged
at this distance from Pearl. Decided, in
view of fuel available and present position,
to attempt to intercept these forces only
if headed for eastern Mandates, especially
KWAJALEIN. Plot showed that at 15 kts they
were already to the south of us, although
we had patrolled across their possible tracks
during the day. Commenced patrol along and
across possible track of C-in-C 2nd Fleet
to KWAJELEIN.
June 10, 1942. Started day patrolling on surface, but later
submerged for most of remainder of day in
view unfavorable sky and sea conditions,
our wake at 6 kts being visible for 10 to
15 minutes on the ripply surface. Considered
-11-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 21 —
[UNCLEAR: L.I.T.R.E.D.]
DECLASSIFIED
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

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

— page 24 —
. 5.
Enemy Vessels Sighted.

DATE | TIME | DESCRIPTION OF VESSEL | POSITION | COURSE | SPEED | CONFIDENTIAL
---|---|---|---|---|---|---
4/30 | 1717(M) | 7100 T. vessel of SADO | Lat 10-23 N | 116° T | 9 to 17 kts. |
| | | MU RU class. | Long 156-50 E | | varying. |
5/4 | 0633(K) | 5000 T. vessel of TACOMA | Lat 8-40 N | 310° T | 8.5 kts. |
| | | MU RU class. | Long 150-54 E | | |
| | | Small single stack | NE of OTTA | About | |
| | | steamer. | TRUK | 2250 T | |
5/4 | 1825(L) | Small single stack | TRUK | Southerly | 15 kts (est) |
| | | steamer. | Lagoon | | |
| | | 2 sailing sampans | Inside | | |
5/6 | 1439(L) | Single stack steamer | Lagoon | About | 10 kts (est) |
| | | | Inside | 2200 T | |
5/7 | 1350(K) | 2-5000 T single stack | TRUK | Northerly | 15 kts (est) |
| | | steamers escorted by | 20 mi. NE | | |
| | | 2 patrol vessels | of TRUK | | |
5/7 | 1730(K) | Small fishing vessel | Inside TRUK | Northerly | 15 kts (est) |
| | | | Lagoon | | |
5/14 | 1252(K) | Carrier, with Island, | Inside TRUK | - | Anchored |
| | | escorted by 4 destroyers | Lagoon | | |
| | | Two heavy cruisers of | Inside TRUK | | |
| | | N.TI or ATAGO class | Lagoon | | |
| | | 1 large merchant vessel, | Inside TRUK | | |
| | | 3 smaller unidentified | Lagoon | | |
| | | vessels. | Inside TRUK | | |
5/16 | 1600(K) | Escorted by 4 destroyers | Lagoon | South | 15 kts (est) |
| | | 1 large merchant vessel, | Inside | | |
| | | 3 smaller unidentified | Lagoon | | |
| | | vessels. | Inside | | |
5/16 | 1700(K) | 1 large merchant vessel, | Lagoon | South | 15 kts (est) |
| | | 3 smaller unidentified | Inside | | |
| | | vessels. | Lagoon | | |
5/17 | 1702(K) | 2 - 10,000 T merchantmen | Lagoon | South | 15 kts (est) |
| | | | Inside | | |
5/18 | 1200(T) | 2 - 10,000 T merchantmen | Lagoon | South | 15 kts (est) |
| | | | Inside | | |
5/18 | 1625(K) | AV resembling CHIYODA, | NE pass | 330° | 13 kts. |
| | | 2 - 10,000 T merchantmen | 18 miles | | |
| | | 2 - DDs of HUBUKI class | 090° T | | |
| | | Single stack, 2 mast | Pass. | | |
| | | merchant vessel. | Inside | | |
| | | 50 to 100 ton fishing or | Lagoon | | |
| | | patrol vessel | Inside | | |
| | | | Lagoon | | |
5/19 | 0633(K) | AV resembling CHIYODA, | NE pass | 330° | 13 kts. |
| | | 2 - 10,000 T merchantmen | 18 miles | | |
| | | 2 - DDs of HUBUKI class | 090° T | | |
| | | Single stack, 2 mast | Pass. | | |
| | | merchant vessel. | Inside | | |
| | | 50 to 100 ton fishing or | Lagoon | | |
| | | patrol vessel | Inside | | |
| | | | Lagoon | | |
5/22 | 1625(K) | AV resembling CHIYODA, | NE pass | 330° | 13 kts. |
| | | 2 - 10,000 T merchantmen | 18 miles | | |
| | | 2 - DDs of HUBUKI class | 090° T | | |
| | | Single stack, 2 mast | Pass. | | |
| | | merchant vessel. | Inside | | |
| | | 50 to 100 ton fishing or | Lagoon | | |
| | | patrol vessel | Inside | | |
| | | | Lagoon | | |
5/23 | 1805(K) | AV resembling CHIYODA, | NE pass | 330° | 13 kts. |
| | | 2 - 10,000 T merchantmen | 18 miles | | |
| | | 2 - DDs of HUBUKI class | 090° T | | |
| | | Single stack, 2 mast | Pass. | | |
| | | merchant vessel. | Inside | | |
| | | 50 to 100 ton fishing or | Lagoon | | |
| | | patrol vessel | Inside | | |
| | | | Lagoon | | |

- 15 -

— page 27 —
DECLASSIFIED
Subject:
7.
U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of First War Patrol.
Particulars of Attacks.
ATTACK No. 1
No. torpedoes - 4
Est. Range - 1,2,3 - 1500 yds. 4 - 1700 yds.
Firing Interval - 1,2,3 - 5 sec. 4- 1 min.
Point of Aim - M.O.T.
Est. Draft - 14 ft.
Depth Setting - 1,2,3, - 19 ft. 4- 14 ft.
Est. Speed - 11 kts.
Track angle - 1,2,3, - 112° port. 4 - 140° port.

REMARKS: Both plot and T.D.C. gave repeated speed checks of
11 kts. After first three (3) torpedoes fired, target turned
away whereupon a fourth torpedo was fired on a 140° track with
a decreased depth setting. Torpedo performance unknown, although
target must have seen one or more of the tracks. Result; Four
(4) misses.

ATTACK No. 2
No. torpedoes - 2
Est. Range - 1350 yds.
Firing Interval - 2 minutes.
Point of Aim - M.O.T.
Est. Draft - 14 ft.
Depth Setting - 19 ft.
Est. Speed - 1 - 17 kts. 2 - 13 kts.
Track Angle - 1 - 130° S. 2 - 110° S.

REMARKS: This was second attack on same ship. After first
attack, remained submerged until target nearly out of sight,
then surfaced and passed target at full power about 6,000
yds. abeam, target being silhouetted against the moon.
Target's speed checked at 17 kts, while passing. As noon
was becoming high, closed target on a 110° stbd. track
at 2500 yds. range, dived, the target being plainly visible
through the periscope. When sound range 1350 yds. fired
one (1) torpedo on an estimated 130° stbd. track. Two (2)
minutes later fired a second torpedo on an estimated 110°
track (target was zig-zagging), estimated speed 13 kts,
bearings indicating the target had slowed. Result: First
torpedo missed ahead (probably); target maneuvered and
avoided the second, again turning tail to us. Surfaced
when range increased to 7,000 yds, whereupon target fired two
(2) shells at us with its 3" stern gun. Both shells
fell far short.

- 18 -

— page 36 —
[STAMP: JAI]
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of First War Patrol. [STAMP: 16 JAN 1943]

— page 37 —
DECLASSIFIED O
Subject:U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of First War Patrol.

All vessels going on patrol should be pro-
vided with a complete set of spare tubes and with as
many additional type 8014 tubes as are available.
In lieu of receiver spare parts, it is strongly
recommended that steps be taken to provide each sub-
marine with a complete, spare receiver. The space
required would be about the same. Sufficiently ex-
perienced personnel and proper equipment are not
available on the average submarine to service these
complicated receivers.
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- 28 -

— page 38 —
COMMANDER SUBMARINE DIVISION EIGHTY-ONE (Ss)
FB5-81/A16-3                                        Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial (023)                                        San Francisco, California,
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]                               June 16, 1942.

From:             The Commander Submarine Division EIGHTY-ONE.
To:               The Commander Submarines, PACIFIC FLEET.
Subject:          U.S.S. GREENLING (SS213) - First War Patrol;
                  Report of.
Reference:        (a) Comsubpac Conf. Ltr. 8-42.

                  1. The commanding officer has been directed to
submit a "Summary of Submarine Attacks" together with the
additional information required by reference (a) in order to
make this report conform with the latest instructions.

                  2. Such perseverance as was displayed by the
commanding officer in pursuing and attacking the same vessel
four times during the night of April 30 - May 1, even though
of no avail in this particular instance, will in the long run,
bring success.

                  3. The excellent description of the bases ob-
served (5a), and the information on the traffic routes employed
by the enemy around Truk (paragraph (g) REMARKS), should prove
most useful for future operations in this area.

                  4. The commanding officer is to be commended on
his successful attack on the five thousand eight hundred ton
armed merchantman. It is noted that the attack was made with
but one torpedo which hit amidships resulting in the vessel
breaking in two and sinking in less than three minutes.

                                                  W. M. DOVES.

Copy to:
  Comsubron 8
  CO GREENLING

                                                  ENCLOSURE (B)

                                  - ES -

— page 39 —
FC5-8/A16-3
Serial 050
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHT

June 17, 1942.
(Ce)

From: Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHT.
To : Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING, First War Patrol; Comments
on Report of.

1. Duration of first war patrol, U.S.S. GREENLING,
was fifty seven days. Thirty three days of this total
were spent in originally assigned patrol area. Departure
from this station was in accordance with operation order, and
not dictated by reaching the limit of any factor of endurance.

2. It is unfortunate that the GREENLING was not
afforded more attack opportunities. The sentiments of the
Commanding Officer, while observing numerous very suitable
targets whose protection by reefs precluded attacks upon them,
are not difficult to visualize.

3. Expenditure of eight torpedoes in three attacks
upon a single 7100 ton armed merchantman is considered unjusti-
fied, particularly so when all these torpedoes failed to hit.
The reason for all eight of these torpedoes missing is not
apparent. The tenacity and persistence with which this contact
was held would have been most commendable if the target had been
more important.

4. Considered particularly worthy of note are the
following items of the patrol report:

(a) The ability of the ship to maintain depth control,
with all main power lost, on the dive made to avoid
an unidentified plane at 1320, April 27, 1942.

(b) The manner in which the leak by the outboard battery
ventilation valve that developed after depth charge
attack on May 19, 1942, was handled, as described in
subparagraph 9(j).

(c) Cleaning of No. 2 evaporator unit in a total time
of 10.5 hours, as described in subparagraph 15(c).
This is believed a very creditable performance.

(d) Economy of fuel consumption on station, as described
in subparagraph 15(f).

(e) The discussion of radar upkeep in subparagraph 15(i).

5. GREENLING is credited with the following losses
inflicted upon the enemy during her first war patrol.

One 5800 ton armed merchantman - Sunk

Copy to:
CSD 81
GREENLING ENCLOSURE (C) C. H. ROPER.

— page 40 —
-10/A16-3(5)
Serial 0738

Fn
Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
June 28, 1942.

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 41
U.S.S. GREENLING - FIRST WAR PATROL
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
From: The Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.
To : Submarines, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING (SS213) - Report of
First War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of subject report.
(B) Copy of Comsubdiv 81 Conf. ltr: FB5-81/
A16-3 Serial 023 of June 16, 1942.
(C) Copy of Comsubron 8 Conf. ltr: FC5-8/
A16-3 Serial 050 of June 17, 1942.

1.
The first war patrol of the GREENLING was
successfully completed. It is believed that the experience
gained on this patrol will lead to success in future
patrols.

2.
No explanation is available of the cause
of misses on the first attack on April 30. It appears
that the target's estimated speed was in error, but the
spread employed should have taken care of this error. It
is noted that all attacks on this vessel were made from
long range. The aggressive chase of this vessel is com-
mended, but the chance shots at long range are deplored.

3.
When in the vicinity of valuable targets
and subject to depth charge attack, the decision to go
deep for extended periods while depth charging is in pro-
gress and returning quickly to periscope depth to insure
a kill must rest on the judgment of the commanding officer
with due consideration of the value of the target and
realization of the fact that contacts cannot be aggressively
developed without a calculated risk which is to be expected
in all war operations.

4.
Submarine transmitting frequencies are con-
stantly guarded by NPM, Commander Service Force, Pacific
Fleet, the Submarine Base and the FULTON (AS11). Part
of the difficulty appears to be in the inability of the
submarine to hear the receipt. In the cases cited, the
log shows that for an hour and a half NPM kept telling the

-1-

— page 42 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

A16-3
Serial 094
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
September 2, 1942.

From: Commander Submarine Squadron [HANDWRITTEN: SIX] EIGHT.
To: Commander Submarines, PACIFIC Fleet.
Subject: Second War Patrol, U.S.S. GREENLING:
Comments on.
Reference: (a) CO GREENLING S-213/A16-3 Serial 021 of
September 1, 1942, and Enclosure (A)
thereto.

1.
GREENLING's second War patrol is considered to
have been generally well conducted. The tenacity of purpose
and skill that resulted in the sinking of the BRAZIL MARU is
felt most commendable.

2.
Doctrine requires that submerged attacks and
evasive tactics be conducted at periscope depth, to the
greatest extent practicable, in order that a clear picture of
the situation may be had and that "blind" maneuvers may be
avoided. A logical corollary to this doctrine appears to
obtain in the glassy smooth seas frequently encountered in the
Mandates. Under such conditions, when the slightest ripple of
the surface is visible for miles to a surface or air observer,
and when a submerged submarine at periscope depth is so easily
seen from the air, it is felt that running at periscope depth
and periscope exposures must be kept at a minimum and utilized
with caution while in close proximity to enemy forces. To do
otherwise precludes any chance of effective attack, and invites
effective anti-submarine measures.

3.
Despite the foregoing, running at deep sub-
mergence under such conditions should not be continued unduly
when the necessity for such running is no longer indicated.
As the Commanding Officer frankly admits in his remarks under
Attack No. 2, it was probably an error in judgment for him not
to have returned to periscope depth earlier than he did after
firing torpedoes, in order that the results thereof might have
been observed. In addition, over cautious use of the periscope
should not be indulged in in the assumption that there is an
air screen present when there is no positive evidence to support

-1-
ENCLOSURE (A)
[HANDWRITTEN: 42872]

— page 49 —
DECLASSIFIED
Subject: U.S.S. GREEDING - Report of Second War Patrol.

July 28, 1942.
0715(I). Sighted large passenger-cargo vessel,
bearing 270° T, distance 7 miles, on
zig-zag course headed toward TRUK.
Commenced approach but could not close
to less than 9800 yards. Estimated
target speed 17-18 kts. No escort was
seen. Lat. 6°-50' N. Long. 150°-59' E.

1545(I). Ground in first of a series of leaks in
safety and bow buoyancy blow valves.

July 29, 1942.
0310(I). Sighted zig-zagging tanker, in ballast,
headed toward FIATU Pass or to the west
of TRUK. Began trailing from ahead in
order obtain base course as bright moon-
light prohibited a surface attack.
Target lost in rain squall. 0440 Contact
regained. 0503 Submerged and commenced
approach as dawn was breaking. 0610
Attacked target with three (3) torpedoes.
Four (4) explosions heard. Two (2)
probable hits. See par. 7(b) for details.
Three (3) MK XV torpedoes flooded during
this approach, one badly. Lat. 08-14' N.
Long. 150-55' E.

July 30, 1942. Began closing North Pass, TRUK.

2030(I). Sighted destroyer, angle on bow near zero,
range 2000-3000 yds., approaching from south.
Dived and rigged for depth charge attack
which did not materialize. Destroyer was
heard to pass our position making 240 RPM
then maneuver around and finally drew out
of sound range to northwest. No depth
charges heard or felt. Night was much
too dark to see through periscope. Moon
rose above low clouds shortly thereafter,
nothing in sight through periscope. Lat.
8°-35' N. Long. 151°-09' E.

-5- ENCLOSURE "C"
[HANDWRITTEN: stylized 'd' or 'do' symbol]

— page 60 —
ord and CI OF OYG with contact obs!
(Y)ers
date 0800 YAY: arrived

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Second War Patrol.

— page 62 —
DECLASSIFIED
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Second War Patrol
2. WEATHER.
Enroute to the area we had the benefit of a
moderate, following sea and excellent visibility. Smooth
seas, generally flat calms, clear skies, and light variable
winds prevailed in both areas patrolled during this period.
Visibility was generally excellent throughout the entire
patrol, reduced frequently, however, by rain squalls.
Conditions were most unfavorable for daylight periscope
attacks at least 90% of the time in both areas patrolled. Im
proved visibility is much better, rain squalls are less fre-
quent, and the sea much smoother in TRUK area in July-August
than in May-June. During the return trip to MIDWAY, the same
weather prevailed as in the operating areas until Lat. 10°-00'
N was reached. Thereafter, fairly rough head seas were encoun-
tered which abated two days before arriving at MIDWAY.

3. TIDAL INFORMATION (IF ABNORMAL).
No abnormal tidal currents were experienced.

4. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS.
No burning navigational lights were sighted.
The beacon on the eastern end of MOEN Is. was plainly evident
from the close vicinity of North Pass. No difficulty was ex-
perienced in fixing position from bearings of peaks on the
large islands and bearings and tangents of the smaller islands
of TRUK. Excellent star sights were taken during moonlight in
both areas patrolled.

[VERTICAL TEXT ON LEFT MARGIN, INVERTED]:
DECLASSIFIED
TIME
1028(I)
0318(I)
0300(I)
0

— page 63 —
TIME
DATE
DESCRIPTION
BASE
COURSE SPEED
POSITION
ENCLOSURE (C)
1. 1058(1)
7/23/42
50 T. Diesel Trawler,
340° T
8
Lat 10-07 N
Long 150-21E
2. 1845(1)
7/25/42
2000 T escort and 5000 T
340° T
10.5
Lat 8-40 N
Naval auxiliary.
Long 150-56 E
3. 1940(1)
7/25/42
Medium sized merchantman and
160° T
10
Lat 8-50 N
small escort.
Long 150-55 E
4. 0715(1)
7/28/42
10,000 T cargo-passenger vessel
145° T
15-17
Lat 8-50 N
Long 150-59 E
5. 0310(1)
7/29/42
7200 T. tanker
160° T
11
Lat 8-39 N
2800
Long 150-55 E
6. 2030(1)
7/30/42
Destroyer
320° T
240 RPM Lat 8-37 N
Long 151-09 E
7. 0900 (1)
8/1/42
1000 T patrol vessel, clipper
100° T
8
Off North
bow, high stern, large crow's
Pass, TRUK
nest forward
8. 2110(1)
8/4/42
13,000 T BRAZIL MARU
338° T
16-18
Lat 8-43 N
Long 151-03 E
9. 2220(1)
8/5/42
11,000 T cargo-passenger ship.
140° T
13.5
Lat 9-04 N
Long 150-53 E
10. 0018(1)
8/6/42
1,500 T small freighter or
140° T
13.5
Lat 8-57 N
patrol vessel.
Long 151-13 E
11. 1730(1)
8/9/42
250 T trawler type patrol ves-
270° T
6
Off North
sel, high masts
Pass, TRUK.
12. 0745(1)
8/12/42
Patrol vessel, similar to (7)
Anchored
Inside TRUK Lagoon
near North Pass.
13. 0745(1)
8/12/42
Patrol vessel, same as 7.
Anchored
Inside TRUK Lagoon
near North Pass.
14. 1445(1)
8/12/42
Small patrol vessel
Anchored
Inside TRUK Lagoon
near North Pass.
15. 1518(1)
8/12/42
5000 T. freighter, 1500 T small
140° T
12
Off North Pass
freighter or patrol vessel
TRUK.
16. 0950(1)
8/20/42
Unidentified, large two masted
Northerly
19
Lat 1-57 S
vessel believed tanker
Long 150-37 E
17. 2022(1)
8/20/42
Destroyer
300° T
10
Lat 1-58 S
Long 150-45 E
18. 0945(K)
8/26/42
50 to 100 T fishing vessel
090° T
10
Lat 5-13 N
Long 160-17 E
5.
Description
[UNCLEAR: 11] vessels sighted.
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

— page 65 —
DECLASSIFIED
Aircraft Sighted.

| DATE | TIME | POSITION | TYPE | COURSE | ALTITUDE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. July 11 | 1310(WW) | Lat 19°-41' N | U.S. Navy PBY | 260° T | 1000 ft. |
| | | Long 163°-47' W | | | |
| 2. July 17 | 0703(-12) | Lat 13°-49' N | Unidentified | 200° T | 1500 ft. |
| | | Long 171°-58' E | | | |
| 3. July 17 | 0821(-12) | Lat 13°-48' N | Unidentified | 090° T | 1500 ft. |
| | | Long 171°-50' E | | | |
| 4. July 19 | 0856(-11) | Lat 12°-07' N | Unidentified | Radar Contact | 1000 ft. |
| | | Long 161°-35' E | | | |
| 5. Aug. 17 | 0950(-10) | Lat 2°-02' S | NAKAJIMA | Radar Contact | 1000 ft. |
| | | Long 150°-38' E | 97 twin | | |
| | | | plane | | |
| 6. Aug. 24 | 0745(-10) | Lat 0°-08' N | Small; otherwise | 270° T | 3000 ft. |
| | | Long 151°-45' E | unidentified | | |
| 7. Aug. 24 | 1112(I) | Lat 0°-28' N | Unidentified | Radar Contact | |
| | | Long 152°-02' E | | | |

Day of departure PEARL and return MIDWAY - Friendly planes of various types.

ENCLOSURE (C)
-21-
[HANDWRITTEN: 24]

— page 67 —
DECLASSIFIED

S ubject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Second War Patrol.

The Commanding Officer now realizes he committed a decided
error in judgment in not returning to periscope depth soon after
the firing in order to visually determine the effect of the
torpedoes fired. At the time, however, he believed the ex-
plosions were aircraft depth bombs, and saw no point in return-
ing to periscope depth at once, as the target close-in and un-
damaged, would be well out of effective range. The target close-
ly resembled the KIYO MARU, 7200 tons, 37S, Recognition of
Japanese merchantmen.

(c) Attack No. 3.
Range was in excess of the predicted range of
1000 yds., due, undoubtedly, to a right zig of the target. The
speed used was also probably low. Echo ranging was not used
because it was believed the target was a carrier, undoubtedly
under escort. None of the torpedoes was heard to run by sound,
although at least one must have reached the target's track, since
depth charges were dropped. Own speed was three (3) knots or
less at the time of the attack. Two (2) MK XIV and two (2) MK
XV torpedoes were fired from the stern tubes.

(d) Attack No. 4.
Attack was begun as a large cloud obscured
the half-moon. Due to target's high speed, range could not be
reduced to less than 1600 yds. About 1½ minutes after firing
two (2) muffled explosions were heard below but were believed
to be depth charges. These explosions were not perceptible on
the bridge. From the bridge it was not definitely determined
that target was hit until her stern was seen to rise high in the
air. Meanwhile, the GREENLING was being maneuvered at high
speed to avoid gunfire from the target. Target sank completely
out of sight, fifteen (15) minutes after torpedoes fired.

(e) Attack No. 5.
Target had been trailed and passed so speed
was known quite accurately. All three torpedo tracks were
seen and three distinct detonations were heard below. One
torpedo blew off the bow of the target, another hit amidships
and caused a large internal explosion, but the third torpedo
was not seen to hit amid the smoke and debris. Two torpedo
detonations could be seen plainly from the bridge as two large
only about 700 yds. away, and appeared to be bright points of
light surrounded by a glow, not very bright. The target was
completely blown apart and was out of sight two minutes after
the first torpedo hit.

-23- ENCLOSURE (C)
[HANDWRITTEN: 26]

— page 75 —
DECLASSIFIED
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Second War Patrol.

17. REMARKS.

(a) The following are opinions of the Commanding Officer:

1. Steps should be taken to reduce not only the long-
itudinal but also the athwartships silhouette of
future submarines. See par. 9(a). This may be
accomplished by eliminating the upper periscop e
supports and by reducing the height and width of
the entire conning tower structure.

2. No. 1 periscope should be replaced with a large
diameter periscopevhaving high light transmission
qualities for use at night. This periscope should
prefereably be of the binocular type and should
be usable in the conning tower.

3. Either a positive, mechanical hold-down mechanism,
or a hand operated hydraulic pump with associated
piping should be provided to keep rotating
mechanism for sound heads engaged while at deep
submergence.

4. The .50 Cal. machine gun has a devastating effect
against unprotected personnel but is practically
useless for sinking a wooden fishing vessel. In
the event .20 mm. guns are not supplied submarines
it is recommended that a supply of small fire or
demolition bombs be provided.

(b) In view of the very loud noise made by the trim pump
at deep depths, rendering it useless when running
silent, the following procedure has been adopted by
this vessel:

1. On a normal dive negative tank is blown partially
dry, about 5000 lbs. being allowed to remain in
this tank, and a normal trim is obtained with this
quantity of water in negative.

-31- ENCLOSURE (C)
34

— page 78 —
FB5-81/A16-3
Serial 031

CONFIDENTIAL

From:
To :
Subject:

Reference:

1.
conducted.
during this
from being
Two of the
well conducted

2.
torpedo attacks

ATTACK NO. 1
ability of
torpedo tracks

ATTACK NO. 2
angle. It is
charges. However,
pedo hits since
sions checks closely
a five second firing

ATTACK NO. 3
in estimating range

ATTACK NO. 4
ATTACK NO. 5

3.
GREENLING are to be

SUBMARINE DIVISION EIGHTY-ONE

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
September 2, 1942.

The Commander Submarine Division EIGHTY-ONE.
The Commander Submarines, PACIFIC FLEET.

U.S.S. GREENLING (SS213) - Second War Patrol;
Report of.

(a) Comsubpac Patrol Report No. 48.

The second war patrol of the GREENLING was well
The glassy sea conditions encountered in this area,
time of year, undoubtedly prevented the GREENLING
more successful in the two daylight attacks made.
three night attacks on the surface were exceptionally
and resulted in complete destruction of the enemy.

The following remarks relative to the GREENLING's
are submitted in accordance with reference (a):

Failed due to lack of observations and prob-
target's maneuvering to avoid upon sighting
in glassy sea.

Failed due to long range and unfavorable track
believed that the explosions heard were depth
the first explosions may have been tor-
the time elapsed between firing and explo-
with the expected time. The reason for
interval is not understood.

This attack probably failed because of errors
and enemy speed.

Successful. No remarks.

Successful. No remarks.

The commanding officer, officers, and crew of the
congratulated on the success of this patrol.

ENCLOSURE (B)

[HANDWRITTEN: 37]

— page 79 —
[HANDWRITTEN: Reg. No. 2214]
[HANDWRITTEN: R.S. No. 9-01977]
[HANDWRITTEN: Cominch]

FF12-10/A16-3(5) SUBMARINES, PACIFIC FLEET Ee

Serial 01049 Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
September 11, 1942.

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 62
U.S.S. GREENLING - SECOND WAR PATROL
DECLASSIFIED

From: The Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.
To : Submarines, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING (SS213) - Report of
Second War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Comsubron 8 Conf. ltr. FC5-8/A16-3,
Serial 094 of September 2, 1942.
(B) Copy of Comsubdiv 81 Conf. ltr. FB5-81/
A16-3, Serial 031 of September 2, 1942.
(C) Copy of subject war patrol.

1. The conduct of this patrol by the GREENLING
has been well covered in the comments of the Commander Submarine
Squadron Eight in enclosure (A). These comments are concurred
in. The Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
GREENLING on the success of this patrol.

2. Very few reports of flooded torpedo afterbodies
are being received. GREENLING had three flooded Mark 15 after-
bodies which may have resulted from running with torpedo tube
muzzle doors open for too long a period of time or from going
to deep submergence with muzzle doors open.

3. Concerning the comment of the commanding officer
on fatigue of personnel, submarine commanding officers are
authorized to withdraw from station for a short rest on occa-
sions to restore alertness.

4. The commanding officer was aggressive in pressing
home his attacks against the enemy. The GREENLING is credited
with the following damage to the enemy:

SUNK

1 Passenger vessel - 13,000 tons
1 Passenger vessel - 10,900 tons
1 Fishing vessel - 50 tons
Total .... 23,950 tons

42872
FILMED
(See next page for
distribution)

- 1 - R. H. ENGLISH.

[STAMP: COMMANDER IN CHIEF U.S. FLEET RECEIVED 1942 SEP 30 9]
[HANDWRITTEN: 38]

— page 80 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5) SUBMARINES, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 01049 Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
September 11, 1942.

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 62
U.S.S. GREENLING - SECOND WAR PATROL
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING (SS213) - Report of
Second War Patrol.

DISTRIBUTION:
(21CM-42)
List I; Case 2:
P1(5); SSs
Special:
EN3(5); Comsublant(2);
Comsubswespac(2);
Cominch(5);

[SIGNATURE: E. R. Swinburne]
E. R. SWINBURNE,
Flag Secretary.

- 2 -

[HANDWRITTEN: 39]

— page 81 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

FF12-10/A16-3(5) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 01281
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
November 10, 1942.

CO. SUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 89
U.S.S. GREENLING - THIRD WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING (SS213) - Report of Third
War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject Report.
(B) Comsubdiv 42 Conf ltr FB5-42/A16-3 Serial
057 of November 2, 1942.

1. The GREENLING has completed another successful and
highly destructive patrol. All attacks were pressed home to the
maximum extent and results obtained are gratifying.

2. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet,
agrees with the remarks of the Commanding Officer regarding attack
No. 9, that periscope exposures at 15 minute intervals are not
sufficiently frequent to obtain best attack positions on a high
speed target. In this case, the angle on the bow was 130° when
target was first sighted. Had more time been available for the
approach on this valuable target, results of far reaching propor-
tions might have been obtained. While it is possible that this
target may have sunk, in the absence of more conclusive evidence,
the GREENLING is credited with having damaged this auxiliary car-
rier.

3. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet,
extends a deserved "well done" to the Commanding Officer, officers,
and crew of the GREENLING for having inflicted the following damage
on the enemy:

SUNK

1 freighter 4,000 tons
1 freighter 8,000 tons
1 freighter 9,000 tons
1 freighter 11,000 tons
1 sampan 50 tons
TOTAL 32,050 tons

- 1 -

[HANDWRITTEN: 44247]

— page 83 —
DECLASSIFIED
U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Third War Patrol,

PROLOGUE:
Arrived Midway on September 1, 1942, from Second War Patrol.
Commenced refit on September 2, 1942, by Submarine Base personnel
assisted by tender repair forces. Completed refit on early
morning of September 22, 1942. Submarine Base personnel having
worked during the night re-installing cover plates on upper
periscope supports to eliminate heavy vibration of No. 2
periscope which was discovered on test dive. Necessary to
resort to welding to finish job on time. Readiness for sea
on September 22, 1942. Not depermed nor wiped; no training
period.

1. Narrative:

September 22, 1942.
0532(M) Left Midway under escort.

0800(M) Released escort. Proceeded toward assigned area.

1343(M) Made training dive. No. 2 periscope very stiff in train,
        grates badly, and is becoming progressively worse with
        use.

1433(M) Surfaced and attempted, without success, to free up
        periscope using grease and oil. Metal borings and
        filings found in grease forced out of bearings. Peri-
        scope barrel badly scored. Made decision return Mid-
        way. Reversed course. Informed ComTaskGroup 7.6 and
        requested rendezvous.

September 23, 1942.
0515(M) Made contact with surface escort off Midway.

0845(M) Moored alongside FULTON at Midway. FULTON pulled both
        periscopes, cleaned bearings, replaced periscopes and
        renewed grease. No. 2 periscope much improved and now
        usable but still grates and jerks in train.

1740(M) Departed Midway under escort.

1830(M) Released escort. Headed for assigned areas conducting
        training dives and drills enroute.

September 25, 1942.
1608(M) Radio direction finder loop flooded during training
        dive.

- 1 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 85 —
DECLASSIFIED
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Third War Patrol.

0615(I) Sighted second steamer heading down coast. Commenced
approach. 0700 fired three (3) torpedoes. One (1)
hit. (Attack No. 1). Very loud explosion about one
minute after torpedo detonation, probably boiler. (Tar-
get sank in less than six minutes. Target sank in less
than six minutes. Target was about 4000 T., southbound,
and was heavily loaded. Sampan approached scene of
sinking, apparently picking up survivors. Lat. 38°-46'
N, Long. 142°-02'E. Continued to close coast.
0935(I) Sighted large patrol sampan approaching scene of sink-
ing. Evaded him at periscope depth. Sighted 38 addi-
tional sampans before dark.
1800(I) Surfaced. Found a heavy fishing line, over 400 ft. long,
entrangled around conning tower structure and radio
antenna. Over 200 ft. of the line was trailing. There
were wooden floats on one end of the line and a large
shark was hooked on the other end. The starboard after
antenna (½".phosphor bronze cable) was completely
severed as a result of being fouled by the line. Clear-
ed away fishing line and broken antenna cable and headed
up the coast.
2000(I) Sighted TODO SAKI light, exhibiting listed character-
istics, bearing 285° T, distance 15 miles.
Sighted eight (8) additional sampans during the night.
October 4, 1942.
Patrolling north of TODO SAKI, closing coast.
0623(I) Sighted small steamer, hull down, headed up the coast.
Unable close to firing range.
1050(I) Sighted steamer astern on a northerly course, Masts
and top of stack only visible, angle on bow 90° port.
This ship was about 16 miles off the coast and pulled
rapidly out of sight.
1110(I) Sighted small steamer coming out of haze along coast.
Very hard to see. Unable close. We are not yet close
enough to the coast for most of the traffic.
1250(I) Sighted small patrol yacht, distance 3 miles, headed
down the coast. Attempted to evade him at periscope
depth. When range reduced to 2500 yds., yacht changed
course toward us. Went deep, ran silent and com-
menced evasive tactics. Yacht came very close aboard
but the expected depth charge attack did not occur,
-3- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 96 —
DECLASSIFIED
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Third War Patrol.

2.
Weather.

The weather conditions on station were subject
to quick change. Variable winds of force one to six were
encountered. These winds often changed direction 90 degrees
during the hour. Strong winds force six from the north for
a period of several days caused heavy seas approximately 30
feet high which caused GREENLING to roll 15° while submerged
to 120 feet.

3.
Tidal Information (if abnormal)

Tidal currents in general were consistent with
the data given in the Japan pilot and current charts. On
several occasions an easterly set of 2.5 to 3 knots was
experienced in Lat. 39°N, Long. 143°E. A northerly set of 1
knot was experienced in Lat. 38°N, Long. 142°-30'E., in spite
of a force 6 wind and heavy seas from the north. A drop in
water temperature of 2° to 3° indicated passage from the KURO
SHIO or Japan current into the OYA SHIO current. The limits
of these currents were not established but in general it is
believed that the OYA SHIO current extends about 20 miles
from shore between latitudes 38 and 40 degrees. This current
was very weak.

4.
Navigational Aids.

The navigational lights on TODO SAKI, RYORI
SAKI and SHIOYA SAKI were all burning with normal, listed
characteristics. Excellent radar ranges were obtained on
peaks near the water's edge, and these ranges were of great
value in determining the distance from the shore. Individual
peaks were most difficult to identify due to the large
number of approximately the same height.

- 14 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 97 —
U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Third War Patrol.
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
Subject:

No. | TIME | DATE | DESCRIPTION | COURSE | SPEED | POSITION
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
1 | Various | 3 Oct | 42 sampans | various | various | at 39-42N
| | | | | | | Long 142-23E
2 | 0440 | 3 Oct | 3000 Ton Freighter | 2130T | -9 | at 39-43N
| | | | | | | Long 142-23E
3 | 0615 | 3 Oct | 4000 T 3-island Freighter | 2000T | -9 | at 39-43N
| | | | | | | Long 142-23E
4 | 0935 | 3 Oct | Large patrol sampan, 2 masts, | 60°T | -12 | at 39-43N
| | | | | crows nest forward | | | Long 142-23E
5 | Various | 4 Oct | 14 sampans | Various | Various | at 39-43N
| | | | | | | Long 142-21E
6 | 0623 | 4 Oct | Steamer, hull down | 000°T | 10 | at 39-43N
| | | | | | | Long 142-21E
7 | 1050 | 4 Oct | Small Freighter, hull down astern | 000°T | 12 | at 39-43N
| | | | | | | Long 142-21E
8 | 1110 | 4 Oct | 3000 Ton Freighter | 300°T | 12 | at 39-43N
| | | | | | | Long 142-21E
9 | 1250 | 4 Oct | 250 ton patrol yacht with DD lines | 180 | 8 | off MYOJIN HANA
| | | | | single stack, 2 masts | | |
10 | 1435 | 4 Oct | Small Freighter | 350 | 12 | off MYOJIN HANA
11 | 1435 | 4 Oct | 2000 ton Freighter | 350 | 12 | off MYOJIN HANA
12 | 1435 | 4 Oct | 2000 ton Freighter | 350 | 12 | off MYOJIN HANA
13 | 1500 | 4 Oct | 8000 ton cargo passenger vessel | 000°T | 10 | off MYOJIN HANA
14 | Various | 6 Oct | Two (2) sampans | Various | Various | at 38-50N
| | | | | | | Long 142-00E
15 | Various | 7 Oct | One (1) sampan | Unknown | 6 | at 38-50N
| | | | | | | Long 142-00E
16 | 0300(I) | 7 Oct | 200 T patrol yacht, clipper bow, | Various | 8 | at 38-47N
| | | | | wide stack painted yellow-2 mast | | | Long 142-15E
17 | 0814(I) | 11 Oct | One (1) lighted sampan or very small Northerly | 8 | Stopped | at 38-46N
| | | | | | | | Long 142-02E
18 | 0305(I) | 11 Oct | Two (2) lighted sampans | | | | at 38-46N
| | | | | | | | Long 142-02E
19 | 0307(I) | 12 Oct | Six (6) lighted and two (2) darkened | Various | Various | at 38-46N
| | | | | sampans. Latter two were large and | | | Long 142-02E
| | | | | under sail. | | |
20 | 2000(I) | 13 Oct | Two (2) possibly patrol | | | at 39-20N
| | | | | | | | Long 142-13E
21 | 0000 to | 13 Oct | Two (2) lighted sampans | | | at 39-14N
| | 0700(I) | | | | | | Long 141-49E

-15-
ENCLOSURE

— page 98 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Third War Patrol.
Subject:

                                                                                                                                                            5
DATE           DESCRIPTION                                                              COURSE        SPEED         POSITION                                REMARKS
22 0610(I) 13 Oct  Three (3) small steamers                                                 030°T         8             Lat 37-00N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                                                                                                                        Long 141-10E
23 0700(I) 13 Oct  Large sampan or very small                                               Various       Various       Lat 37-00N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                   destroyer                                                                                              Long 141-10E
24 0715(I) 13 Oct  Large unidentified vessel,                                               Various       Various       Lat 37-00N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                   appearance of single stack                                                                             Long 141-10E
25 1540(I) 13 Oct  Twenty-four (24) sampans                                                 Various       Various       Lat 37-00N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                   Various sizes.                                                                                         Long 141-10E
26 0600 to         Large patrol vessel, up to                                               270°          8             Off Shioya Saki                         [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
   1700(I) 13 Oct  14.0rpm                                                                                                Off Shioya Saki
27 2400 to         Small darkened vessel                                                    North         10            Off Shioya Saki                         [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
   0600(I) 14 Oct
28 2008(I) 14 Oct  Six (6) lighted sampans                                                  Various       Various       Off Shioya Saki                         [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
29 0542(I) 14 Oct  Patrol vessel or gunboat                                                 Various       Various       Off Shioya Saki                         [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
30 2350(I) 14 Oct  Patrol yacht                                                             220°T         8             Off Shioya Saki                         [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
31 0000 to         Convoy consisting of 2                                                   200°T         10            Lat 39-10N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
   0430(I) 15 Oct  vessels, 1-10,000T freighters                                                                          Long 142-01E
32 0615(I) 15 Oct  to 6000 ton freighters.                                                  160° to       10            Lat 39-04N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                                                                                            220°T                       Long 142-12E
33 1200(I) 15 Oct  2 Lighted sampans                                                        0             0             Lat 39-03N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                                                                                                                        Long 142-12E
34 1245(I) 15 Oct  Large patrol vessel, 1500 T naval auxiliary showing 1                    360°T         12            Lat 39-36N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                   stack, 2 masts, 360' long, crow's nest forward, black yellow stack.                                  Long 142-15E
35 0415(I) 16 Oct  5 Lighted sampans                                                        030°T         8.5           Lat 37-33N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                                                                                                                        Long 141-27E
36 1240(I) 16 Oct  Convoy comprising 1 DD patrol vessel, 1-10,000T, 3-5000T freighters.     Various       Various       Lat 37-21N                              [UNCLEAR: 250-300 T patrol vessel]
                                                                                                                        Long 141-21E
37 2400 (I) 16 Oct [HANDWRITTEN: 5]                                                         [HANDWRITTEN: 5] [HANDWRITTEN: 5] [HANDWRITTEN: 5] [HANDWRITTEN: 5]
   1830 to/
38 0235(I) 17 Oct

                                                                                                                                                            16
                                                                                                                                                    ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 99 —
[UNCLEAR: 0072(A)]
[UNCLEAR: 0800]

5. Vessels sighted (Cont'd)

TIME | DATE | DESCRIPTION | Course | SPEED | POSITION
---|---|---|---|---|---
39 0055(I) | 18 Oct | Destroyer | 2700 T | 15 | Lat 37-44 N
| | | | | Long 141-27E
40 0305(I) | 18 Oct | 11,000 T Freighter | 200 | 8 | Lat 38-46 N
| | | | | Long 142-03 E
41 0500 | 19 Oct | 4 sampans | Various | Various | Off TODO SAKI
1700 (I) | | | | |
2222(I) | | | | |
42 0410(I) | 20 Oct | 1 lighted sampan | - | 0 | Off TODO SAKI
43 0700(I) | 20 Oct | Large sampan or small | South | 10 | Lat 39-42N
| | patrol vessel | | | Long 142-09E
44 0800(I) | 20 Oct | Patrol vessel (sound con | Various | Various | Off TODO SAKI
| | tact only, followed by | | |
| | depth charges) | | |
45 1100(I) | 20 Oct | 7 sampans | North | 10 | Lat 39-37 N
1800(I) | | | | | Long 142-45E
46 0005(I) | 21 Oct | 50 T sampan | Various | Various | Off MYOJIN H
| | | | |
47 1026(I) | 22 Oct | Auxiliary carrier with | 0600 T | 16-17 | Lat 37-30N
| | DD escort | | | Long 145-00E

- 17 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 100 —
6. Aircraft sighted.

| TIME    | DATE    | NO. | TYPE                 | COURSE  | ALT      | POSITION                               |
| :------ | :------ | :-- | :| :------ | :------- | :|
| 0800(X) | Oct. 30 | 1   | PBY                  | 320°T.  | 500 ft.  | Lat 25-15N Long 173-00W                |
| 0915(Y) | Oct. 30 | 1   | PBY                  | 320°T.  | 500 ft.  | Lat 22-00N Long 162-15W                |
| 1541(X) | Oct. 31 | 1   | Large, unidentified  | West    | 500 ft.  | Lat 21-28N Long 160-27W                |
| 1618(X) | Oct. 31 | 1   | B24                  | East    | 500 ft.  | Lat 21-26N Long 160-20W                |
| 1629(X) | Oct. 31 | 1   | Large, unidentified  | North   | 1000 ft. | Lat 21-26N Long 160-17W                |
| 1659(X) | Oct. 31 | 1   | PBY                  | North   | 500 ft.  | Lat 21-26N Long 160-17W                |

Dates of departure Midway and arrived Midway and Pearl - numerous
friendly aircraft of various types.

- 18 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 101 —
DECLASSIFIED
Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL
7. Particulars of Attacks - Remarks.
Attack No. 1.
(a) Used too shallow a depth setting because target, heavily
loaded and very low in the water, at first appeared much smaller
than it actually was. Later neglected to increase depth setting,
but one torpedo, even though not running deep enough, proved
more than enough for this ship. The second explosion was un-
doubtedly a boiler explosion. Loud crackling noises continued
to be heard by sound on the bearing where target sank. Target was
a typical three island freighter, about 4000 tons. Only two of
the three torpedoes fired were heard to run by sound.
Attack No. 2
(b) The times of explosions indicated that the first two
torpedoes fired hit. The second torpedo that hit had a Mk.XVII
head. One torpedo apparently hit near amidships, the other aft.
The explosions were very loud, due, probably, to the shallow
water close inshore. The ship resembles none of the silhouettes
or photographs in "Recognition of Japanese Merchantment".
Attack No. 3
(c) Each of the three (3) torpedoes fired detonated with a
loud explosion, the times corresponding to a range of 750 yds.
One and one-half minutes after explosions, target was smoking
and was settling rapidly with decks completely awash. Five (5)
minutes later, target had sunk, several subsequent small ex-
plosions being heard by sound. Extremely rough seas made depth
control most difficult. Target had the appearance of a naval
auxiliary with a large gun forward and another aft, much top
hamper including machine guns or small anti-aircraft guns. Ship
was new looking, flush deck, large amidships structure, two
masts, one short stack. She made absolutely no smoke, in direct
contrast with all the other large vessels thus far sighted on
this patrol. Her tonnage is estimated at 9000 tons. She was
loaded to her normal waterline, whereas all other north bound
ships sighted have been light.
(d) Attack No. 4
Close proximity of escort hurried our firing as we had
not had adequate time to trail targets and obtain speed. Speed
used (10.5 kts) was 2 to 3 knots too high. However, one tor-
pedo appeared to hit target about amidships but did not explode.
Even if wake and not torpedo seen, it is believed torpedo hit
forward. Target was a large, long, 3 island cargo vessel,
about 10,000 tons, heavily loaded.
(e) Attack No. 5
Again the speed used was too high but one wing torpedo
of spread hit target squarely amidships. Target blew whistle,
began signalling with searchlight and blinker, and apparently
stopped. A fierce fire sprang up amidships but later was reduced
in intensity due, probably, to efforts of crew to extinguish it.
- 19 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 106 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - REPORT OF THIRD
WAR PATROL.

(d) September 27 - No. 1 auxiliary generator failed to stop
on a dive when air actuated stop was used, due to a leaky vent
drain valve on the air stop. Engine flooded on a dive due delay
in closing exhaust valve. Engine drained and flushed out with
fresh lubricating oil. No damage.

(e) September 28 - No. 1 evaporator developed high discharge
pressure with greatly reduced capacity after only 72 hours use.
Disassembled and cleaned by ship's force with great difficulty
due to presence much hard scale. Coils stuck together and
damaged in cleaning. Back in operation two days later but will
not make battery water. This unit was reportedly cleaned and
overhauled during the recent refit.

(f) September 30 - Stern planes clutch solenoid burned out.
This unit burned out during the previous patrol and was rewound
by the tender during the recent refit.

(g) October 9 - No. 2 C&R air compressor out of commission due
broken pin (Pc. G3, Bu C&R dwg. 375864) which holds 4th stage
piston to guide of 2nd stage piston. 2nd stage cylinder head
and 4th stage cylinder scored. New pin manufactured and unit
back in operation 10 hours later.

(h) October 13 - Pre-existing small leaks in vent risers of
No. 1 and 7 main ballast tanks have gradually become worse.
At deep depths a small but steady stream of water enters ship.

(i) October 17 - Port stern tube gland leaks badly. Gland is
fully tightened. Added an additional ring of packing, stopping
leaks temporarily. Both stern tube glands need complete re-
packing.

(j) October 17 - Torpedo firing circuits for forward tubes
completely grounded out. Cable is punctured outside of hull.
Considerable water enters ship through interior of cable at deep
depths.

(k) October 20 - No. 1 lighting motor generator vibrates
excessively causing synchronous vibration of surrounding
lockers, etc. Easily picked up on own sound gear, causing
false contacts. Armature needs balancing and speed regulator
requires overhaul.

- 24 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 108 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

Subject:

U.S.S. GREENLING

13. Health and Habitability.

    The health of the crew was generally good in spite of the
    dampness prevalent in the patrol areas. There were many colds
    and minor infections. Total sick days numbered fifteen princip-
    ally due to one man receiving a severe, deep cut on his foot
    requiring six stitches. It was clearly evident that men making
    their third patrol were more easily fatigued than before. These
    same men had reduced resistance to infection, small cuts and
    bruises being very slow to heal and often developing into severe
    ulcers. Had this patrol lasted 50 or more days, sickness might
    have become a major problem. The vitamin pills supplied un-
    doubtedly did much toward maintaining the health of the crew.
    Although frequently damp, the ship was much more comfortable than
    during the two previous tropical patrols. The cold weather
    clothing provided was satisfactory although a larger supply is
    most desirable in rough and rainy weather, since this clothing
    dries slowly.

14. Miles steamed, Midway to station - 2020
    Miles steamed, station to Pearl via Midway - 3170.

15. Fuel oil expended - 81,000 gal.

16. Factors of endurance remaining.

    Torpedoes - 1.
    Fuel - 30,000 gal. at Midway.
    Provisions - 35 days at Midway.
    Personnel - 10 days.
    Fresh water - 25 days at Midway.

17. Factor of Endurance causing end of patrol.

    The factor of endurance causing end of patrol was expendi-
    ture of torpedoes.

18. Remarks.

    1. It is recommended that two additional grease fittings be in-
    stalled in the slide of the 3" deck gun, one on each side near
    the center, in order to insure that all portions of the slide and
    slide cylinder receive adequate lubrication.

    2. The following lessons, all too obvious now, were brought
    out by the experience gained during this patrol:

- 26 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 110 —
FB5-42/A16-3
Serial 057
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY TWO

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
November 2, 1942.

From: The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-TWO.
To: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING - Third War Patrol.

1. This, the GREENLING's third war patrol, was
particularly productive in spite of the false start caused by
the necessity of returning to base for purpose of improving
and or training both periscopes. The targets were plentiful
and the sinkings most satisfactory.

2. It is regrettable that the actual developments
of the attack on the (auxiliary) carrier on October 22 were
not more positively ascertained, but there should be no doubt
that damage was inflicted.

3. The aggressiveness and persistence displayed
in the attack on October 18 demonstrates the necessity to stay
with a damaged vessel and so maneuver to deliver the "Coup de
Grace." It was that last torpedo which polished her off.

4. The desirability of having (deck) tubes which
are in a state of instant readiness for firing was brought out
by inability to get the submerged tubes ready in sufficient
time to get off a shot at the destroyer which passed 400 yards
ahead of the submarine the night of October 18. It was a case
of "not getting the gun off his shoulder." A deck torpedo tube
would have permitted "firing from the hip."

5. The manner of disposing of the sampan on
October 21 was most effective. "Dead men tell no tales" but
a fiercely burning sampan undoubtedly attracted attention and
may have led to discovery.

6. The number and extent of failures of material
cause considerable concern. Preliminary investigation indicates
that a normal refit period will not suffice to place the vessel
in a condition of readiness to make another war patrol. A period
of five to six weeks including 10-12 days in a navy
yard is

- 1 - ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 112 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

In Reply
Refer To No.
SS213/A16-3
Serial (01)

U. S. S. GREENLING

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

From: Commanding Officer.
To: Commander Task Force Forty-Two.

Subject: U.S.S. GREENLING, Report of Fourth War Patrol.

Reference: (a) Subpac Conf. Ltr. No. 12-42.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Patrol Report.

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

[SIGNATURE: H.C. Bruton]
H.C. BRUTON.

Copies to:
CSD 81
CSS 8

[HANDWRITTEN: 46221]

— page 113 —
In Reply
Refer To No.
Serial
U. S. S. GREENLING
DECLASSIFIEDTIAL
U.S.S. GREENLING
Report of Fourth War Patrol
Period from December 9, 1942 to January 31, 1943
Areas: (1) D(s)
(2) Near equator in vicinity of 150° E
(3) Between 1° S and 1°-30' S north of
New Ireland.
(4) E(n), as modified.
Operation Order: Comtaskfor 42 010435 of December,
1942, with subsequent modifications.

— page 114 —
DECLASSIFIED

U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

PROLOGUE:

Arrived Pearl on November 1, 1942, from Third War Patrol.
Commenced refit on November 2, 1942, by Submarine Base, assisted
by Navy Yard. Completed refit December 8, 1942. In dock November
14, 1942 to November 28, 1942. Underwater repairs made and
squeaks in sound gear removed by Yard. Yard also recoated badly
rusted interior of several ballast tanks. Submarine Base installed
SJ radar and 20mm gun, moved .50 caliber mount forward and did
considerable work on periscopes and air conditioning plant. No.
2 periscope now moves freely, except when trained on starboard
bow, but it pounds heavily against one of upper bearings each time
it is raised. No. 1 periscope still excessively stiff in train.
Training period 4 to 6 December, 1942, inclusive, including one
night's operations. Only three (3) torpedoes fired due to poor
visibility. Unfortunately, seventeen (17) chief petty officers
and first officers first class, all key men, not present during
training period. Not depermed nor wiped. Readiness for sea,
December 9, 1942.

1. Narrative:

December 9, 1942.
0857(VW) Underway from Submarine Base. Met LITCHFIELD off
entrance buoys. Made trim and test dive and fired
eleven (11) rounds of service ammunition at towed
target for test of ammunition. Apparently less than
50% of shells detonated on contact with the water.
Made sound run for LITCHFIELD which dropped an
indoctrination depth charge. 1915(WX) escort departed.

December 10, 1942.
Made several training dives daily during each of
following three days.

0859(W) Sighted PBY plane, distance 10 miles. Exchanged
recognition signals. Lat. 18-40 N., Long. 163-10 W.

December 11, 1942.
1137(W) While making training dive, unable completely close
upper conning tower hatch when operating mechanism
jammed in partly closed position. Closed lower hatch
and surfaced promptly. Took some water in conning
tower but no damage or injuries resulted.

December 12, 1942.
0112(W) Received message from CTF 7 changing area.

-1-

— page 115 —
C DECLASSIFIED
0525(W) Delivered acknowledgment of above message to NPM on
        8470 Kcs. NPM very much on the job contrary to some of
        our previous experiences. Receipt obtained promptly.

        Dived three (3) times during the day for unidentified
        planes.

December 13, 1942.
0935(X) Simultaneously fired deck gun (15 rounds), 20mm, .50
        caliber and .30 caliber machine guns at box target.
        All performed properly.

December 14, 1942.
1113(X) Crossed 180th Meridian.

2000(X) SJ radar motor generator out of commission, badly out
        of alignment. Corrected by ship's force during following
        24 hours.

December 17, 1942.
0800(X) Passed approximately midway between MILI and MAKIN, about
        100 miles from MAKIN. Still continuing on surface.

1600(Y) Passed JALUIT abeam to starboard, distance 145 miles.

December 18, 1942.
0915(Y) Plane contact on radar, close aboard. Sky very cloudy,
        plane not seen. Dived. Lat. 3-00N, Long. 169-00W.

1325(Y) Received message concerning enemy cruiser and DD headed
        toward MARSHALLS. As we are in a position to intercept,
        changed course to get ahead of enemy force, even though
        we will pass to south and east of one of our routing
        points (Lat. 0° S., Long 160° E) in so doing.

1515(Y) Increased speed to 80-90 on two main generators in order
        expedite arrival in area. Even so, we will not enter
        area until the 21st.

1800(Y) Arrived directly ahead of reported enemy force and set
        course to opposite that of enemy. Lat. 00°-10' S.,
        Long. 161°-43' E.

December 20, 1942.
1558(L) Enemy force not sighted. Set course to enter assigned area
        at designated point.

December 21, 1942.
0224(L) Entered assigned area at Lat. 05°-55' S., Long. 157°-00' E
        and headed for lane between Northwest entrance Bougainville
        Strait and TRUK, about 20 miles off KIETA. This will give
        us room to chase both North and South bound targets during
        night attacks. According to previous patrol reports most
        enemy movements are made during darkness in this area.

2

— page 116 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]NTIAL

0529(L) Submerged and commenced daylight periscope patrol. Sea
          glassy, very light wind, visibility excellent.
          BOUGAINVILLE, CHOISEUL and outlying small islands plainly
          visible. Found we were closer to the Strait entrance than
          we had planned.

2129(L) Sighted zig-zagging ship to South, Lat. 50°-52' S, Long.
          166-08E. Commenced trailing from ahead. Bright full
          moon, excellent visibility but sometimes reduced by
          haze. Two escorts occasionally sighted by lookouts on
          high platform, as range and visibility varied. Base
          course eventually determined to be nearly North. Entered
          Sea Dog East while trailing. Unable pick up target
          with SJ radar.

December 22, 1942.
0115(L) Submerged to depth 35 ft., directly ahead of target group
          and commenced approach. Unable pick up targets through
          periscope for some time after diving, but eventually
          sighted target, a small tanker with a small CL or large
          DD ahead. Second escort not seen through the periscope
          until after firing, although it was definitely picked up
          by sound, three separate and distinct ships being heard.
          When range reduced to about 3000 yds. and SJ radar had
          not yet picked up target, increased depth to 52 ft., to
          submerge periscope shears in order to avoid being sighted.
          As range decreased saw tanker was empty and was about ¼
          ship length shorter than the leading warship. Concluded
          leading warship was the more valuable target so decided
          concentrate fire on it. 0159(L) fired five (5) torpedoes
          at leading warship, 2° spread, 110° port track. (Attack
          No. 1). 0200 fired one (1) torpedo at tanker. (Attack
          No. 2). Three (3) torpedo detonations heard and felt, the
          first one forty-two (42) seconds after firing, while
          getting set up on and firing at tanker. Swung periscope
          quickly back to warship and saw and felt explosion of a
          fourth torpedo, the resulting column of water obliterating
          the center portion of the target. Swung periscope back to
          tanker but was unable see wake of torpedo fired at it.
          Swung back to warship which was now completely covered with
          a pall of smoke and was apparently over on its side. Made
          a sweep back to tanker and saw what appeared to be track of
          last torpedo fired. It resembled a sine curve, but did
          not vary much from its axis, and passed ahead of the
          tanker. Made a sweep back to the warship, but it was no
          longer in sight. Remained at periscope depth, ordered
          stern tubes made ready and continued swing to bring them
          to bear on tanker. Made a sweep back to tanker and saw
          a DD, undoubtedly the other escort, passing ahead of
          tanker and heading almost directly for us at high speed.
          When

ε

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DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
DD closed to about 2000 yds., with a near zero angle
on the bow, went deep and secured tubes. This DD made
a very ineffective counter attack, for only two depth
charges were felt, neither very close, about 3½ minutes
after the torpedo detonations. Returned to periscope
depth about an hour later, nothing in sight. Surfaced,
still nothing in sight. Cleared area Dog East at high
speed, since it was believed at the time that this area
was assigned to another submarine. Attack took place in
Lat. 5°-05' S., Long. 156-04 E. No. 1 main engine and
No. 2 auxiliary engine exhaust valves leaked considerably
while at deep depth.

0508(L) Radar contact with plane, distance six miles. Submerged
and began closing Bougainville Strait - TRUK route.

1600(L) Leak in exhaust valve of No. 1 main engine has increased
dangerously so began pulling out to east to effect
repairs. T.D.C. present range counter jammed. Repaired
and reinstalled during the night.

1930(L) Ground in leaky exhaust valve after surfacing, and then
began closing lane to TRUK. Variable visibility during
the night.

December 23, 1942.
Resumed patrol along TRUK - BOUGAINVILLE Strait lane.

December 24, 1942.
2133(L) Received information concerning prospective movement
of enemy unit under tow to TRUK. Pitometer log erratic;
will not indicate speeds of less than three knots.

December 26, 1942.
0250(L) Sighted two (2) aircraft flares, bearing 210° T, in the
direction of BOUGAINVILLE Island. While these might have
been over the island, they appeared to be to the seaward
of it. SD radar manned, no plane contact. Lat. 6°-21' S.,
Long. 156-10 E.

December 27, 1942.
0400(L) Received orders shifting patrol station to equator.
Headed toward northern edge of area.

0630(L) Headed toward new area at four engine speed. Decided
to take slightly longer route east of NUGURIA Island and
LYRA REEF in order more probably avoid detection by
enemy air. This will enable us to avoid diving en route
and will probably thereby expedite our arrival at our
new station. It will also permit several hours patrol of
the TRUK-BOUGAINVILLE Strait route and will keep us
clear of AMBERJACK.

— page 118 —
DECLASSIFIED
0645(L) Sighted a number of floating objects including a water
           cask, several irregular pieces of wood, spars, etc.
           This is in general vicinity where we made our attack
           during early morning of December 22. Lat. 02-33' S.,
           Long. 155-53 E.

0940(L) Slowed to three engine speed to conserve fuel.

1712(L) Sighted what appeared to be a boat loaded with men,
           dead ahead. Boat turned out to be trunk and roots of
           a large tree. Lat. 02-50 S., Long. 154-55 E.

December 28, 1942.
1010(L) Plane contact on SD radar, distance 24 miles. As plane
           got no closer and "pip" soon disappeared, did not dive.
           Lat. 00-20' S., Long. 150-45 E.

1215(L) Arrived on assigned patrol station. Dived and commenced
           high periscope patrol with a complete observation every
           ten (10) minutes. Considered that orders to avoid
           detection by enemy aircraft and reported presence of
           enemy submarines in the vicinity (within 60 miles)
           warranted a submerged patrol during the greater part of
           daylight. Sea surface has a nice chop, but visibility
           is poor due to frequent rain. SJ radar now picking up
           wave echoes. Ground in first of a series of leaks in
           safety and bow buoyancy blow valves.

December 29, 1942.
           Continued submerged patrol during greater part of day-
           light. Remained 10 to 15 miles south of equator, hoping
           to catch an enemy submarine on the surface. Patrolled
           east of 150° E. No. 1 main engine outboard exhaust valve
           again leaky. Ground in after dark. T.D.C. angle solver
           for forward tubes intermittently inoperative. (See par.
           10d).

December 30, 1942.
           Began patrolling west of 150° E. Sea now smooth,
           visibility excellent.

1130(L) Sighted smoke to eastward. Lat. 000-00', Long. 149-50 E.
           Surfaced and sighted masts of six (6) ships headed
           toward TRUK. Began working to a position ahead of
           convoy, which was zig-zagging, just keeping tops of masts
           in sight. SD radar inoperative all day. 1230(L) two
           small steamers, probably escorts, apparently sighted
           Greenling, and headed directly for us at increased speed,
           while the remainder of the convoy zigged away to course
           about 090° T. We were able to prevent escorts from closing
           and they soon afterwards rejoined the convoy which then
           changed course to about 130° T. The original base course
           of the convoy was about 015° T.

. 5

— page 119 —
DECLASSIFIED

This put Greenling almost directly astern. Saw we were
getting nowhere, and not desiring to be led into a trap
with a submerged Jap submarine, decided submerge for
a while, just keeping convoy in sight. 1420(L) Submerged.
1445(L) Convoy came to a westerly course and apparently
increased speed. Commenced submerged approach but soon
saw could never close to a firing range submerged. At
1605(L), when smoke no longer in sight, surfaced and
again picked up smoke. Trailed convoy on surface throughout
remainder of daylight, just keeping smoke in sight.
Convoy continued to zig, base course now about 290° T.
Kept convoy bearing in the direction of the setting sun,
intending to close in at dusk, when its background would
be light and ours dark. Closed convoy at high speed at
dusk, our plans were nearly upset by a rain squall which
obscured targets and smoke from sight for nearly an hour.
However, targets were later sighted on the expected true
bearing and were almost simultaneously picked up by SJ
radar, range 13,000 yds. Trailed targets 8,000 to 9,000
yds. abeam and obtained base course 305° T, speed 10.
Convoy, which comprised four AK's plus two small steamers
as escorts, continued to zig but not so radically as
before. Pulled ahead of convoy, crossed over to other
side to avoid escorts and at 2238(L) attacked two rear
ships with three (3) torpedoes. (Attack No. 3). Used
next of rear ship (largest ship in convoy) as point of
aim with a 3° spread in order to also cover rear ship
which was barely opened out from the large ship ahead.
Two (2) hits on large ship, one (1) hit on the smaller.
Escorts headed towards us so retired at high speed on the
surface. The smaller ship went down rapidly, but large
ship merely reduced speed and settled slightly in the
water. Outdistanced escorts, made a wide sweep to rear
of convoy and approached damaged ship which had now
reversed course and was apparently going ahead at slow
speed. By this time no other ships were in sight and
none could be picked up on the radar. Closed to 1000 yds.,
and fired one (1) torpedo which missed ahead. Target
speed of 5 kts. had been obtained while closing (T.D.C.
had been set up for 15 minutes) but it was set too high.
Reduced speed to 2 knots and fired another torpedo which
hit. Target still showed no signs of sinking. Finally,
in desperation, fired another torpedo which hit amidships
with a very loud explosion. (Attack No. 4). Target broke
in two and sank three (3) minutes later. Approached
scene of sinking of smaller ship, about 300 yds., away,
and saw positive evidence of sinking. There was a large
oil slick and much floating wreckage including pieces 40
or more feet long, a large square container 10 ft., on a
side, a large capsized life boat and three (3) other
life boats full of men. It was difficult to maneuver
through the great quantity of floating wreckage. The
smaller ship appeared to be carrying too many men for an
ordinary freighter. Started to pick up a Jap for a

8

— page 120 —
DECLASSIFIED
souvenir but decided he would not be worth the trouble
of keeping him on board for another month. Attacks
took place Lat. 00°-41' N, Long. 148-52' E. It was after
midnight when we finished investigating scene of sinkings,
so decided against further pursuit of convoy which is now
about 20 miles away and has undoubtedly made a radical
course change.

December 31, 1942.
0155(L) Sent radio message to C.T.F. 42 reporting results to
          date. Consider C.T.F. 42 will be interested in knowing
          if equatorial patrol is fruitful. Since Japs now know
          of our presence and position the radio transmission will
          do no harm. Set course for patrol station on equator.

0900(L) Arrived at patrol station on equator; resumed patrol.

January 1, 1943.
1905(L) Discovered cracked liner in No. 8 cylinder of No. 1
          main engine. Liner replaced, engine back in commission
          24 hours later.

          Renewed both hoisting cables to No. 2 periscope during
          the night. Frequency of observations has caused rapid
          wearing of both cables, nearly all wires of some strands
          being ruptured.

January 2, 1943.
          Patrolling near 150° E, just south of equator. Poor
          visibility during afternoon.

0900(L) Safety blow valve again leaking badly. Ground in
          submerged.

January 4, 1943.
          Patrolled eastern portion of area, about 30 miles south
          of equator. Sea choppy, visibility good. SD radar,
          which has been unreliable for several days, now apparently
          operating properly.

January 5, 1943.
          Patrolling western portion of area.

2113(L) Received orders to shift to area between 1°-30' south and
          1°-00' south. Headed south in compliance with above,
          planning to patrol vicinity of 150° E during the night.

January 6, 1943.
0230(L) Received information concerning several enemy units. Saw
          we could probably intercept the first of these to traverse
          our area, so headed west at four engine speed, planning
          to intercept enemy at his 0800 position. Sea rough,
          visibility variable.

                                                              7

— page 121 —
DECLASSIFIED
0645(L) Submerged directly ahead of 0800 position and allowing for
        enemy unit, using our OR position and allowing for one knot easterly
        set. When star fix showed us still too far to the east
        due to an increased easterly set, surfaced and proceeded
        west. Sea rough, almost steady rain, visibility 2000 to
        8000 yards.

0808(L) Sighted a large AP coming out of rain and haze, range
        about 8000 yards, bearing 330° T, angle on bow almost
        70° port, hull and superstructure clearly visible.
        Lat. 00-55 S., Long. 149-05 E. Submerged immediately,
        to avoid being sighted, and commenced approach at
        high speed. Saw tops of mast of target twice during
        approach but target was soon lost from sight in the
        heavy rain. Considered the possibility of a surface
        chase but decided against it in view of the low
        visibility, rough seas and high speed of target. It
        is doubtful if we could overhaul and pass the target
        in this rough weather, even if we could pick it up
        again. If visibility had been better, or if we had
        been fifteen minutes earlier, believe we could have
        got in an attack. Abandoned approach after an hour;
        commenced heading east. Very rough seas all day.
        Broached twice while making periscope observations.

January 7, 1943.
        Patrolling in vicinity of 1°-05' S., 151°-00' E.
        Sea has moderated but visibility low all day; frequent
        rain.

January 8, 1943.
        Patrolling north of MUSSAU and EMIRAU Islands. Sea
        choppy, variable visibility, frequent rain.

        Surfaced and proceeded to 1°-00' S., 149°-05' E., in
        order to attempt interception of a previously reported
        south bound convoy. Have had no sights for several
        days.

January 9, 1943.
0130(L) Arrived ahead of reported convoy, commenced patrol in
        vicinity. Raining nearly all night, low visibility,
        generally less than 1000 yards. Patrolled vicinity
        until convoy would have passed, even at 4 knots.

1100(L) Set course east, returning to vicinity of 151° E.

January 10, 1943.
0305(L) SJ radar out of commission; set additional lookout.

8

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DECLASSIFIED
0440(L) Sighted northbound ship, bearing 135° T, distance
     6000 yards. Lat. 1°-14' S., Long. 150-17 E.
     Commenced approach. Later sighted DD escort
     maneuvering astern of target, which was identified
     as a large tanker, in light condition. Took position
     ahead of tanker, began opening out from track keeping
     stern pointed at tanker. Targets were zig-zagging.
     Starlit night, no moon. SJ radar now operative. When
     range 1000 yards with angle on bow 45° port, target saw
     Greenling, blew whistle and changed course toward us at
     increased speed. When target blew whistle, but before
     it changed course, fired one (1) torpedo, which missed.
     (Attack No. 5). Escort dropped two (2) depth charges,
     both ships began maneuvering radically. Began
     maneuvering for another firing position on other side
     of target and when crossing its bow, 1100 yards ahead,
     target opened fire on Greenling with a large forward
     gun. Turned tail to target and increased speed. Only
     three (3) shells were fired, one of which exploded
     about 100 yards away; no damage. Opened out to 2100
     yards and obtained another firing position, angle on
     bow 80° port. SJ radar now giving good range. 0541(L)
     fired three (3) torpedoes at tanker, all set to run
     under target, 2° spread. One (1) hit. (Attack No. 6).
     Four (4) minutes later, two (2) much louder explosions
     heard and felt, one of which jarred Greenling violently.
     At this time escort and target were then 3000 yards
     distant. (See par. 8(c)). Tanker showed no signs of
     sinking so drew ahead at four engine speed, keeping
     targets silhouetted in daybreak in eastward. 0558(L),
     when dawn was breaking, aircraft contact at two (2)
     miles on SD radar, dived. Continued approach submerged.
     Trim out badly due leakage into after trim. Unable
     close to less than 6000 yards. Targets gradually grew
     further away. Tanker not appreciably damaged but
     appeared moving at reduced speed. 0615(L) escort began
     echo ranging, 19 kcs. Abandoned approach when saw
     targets would never zig so we could get in submerged.
     Decided allow targets to run the gauntlet to other
     submarines to the north. Attack took place Lat. 1-09 S.,
     Long. 150-16 E. Realize Japs know our location, but
     knowing their fixed habits, decided patrol in same
     vicinity during the remainder of the day.

1050(L) Heard and felt one (1) distant explosion.

2005(L) Received orders concerning depth setting of torpedoes.
     Previous to this we had set all torpedoes to run under
     the target.

9

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DECLASSIFIED
2340(L) Received information concerning enemy unit headed for RABAUL
          from the northwest. Since we can intercept, changed c/c to 280°T
          and headed for a position ahead of enemy on his advanced
          track, at four engine speed. High wind, sea rough from the
          west, considerably retarding our advance. Rainy and overcast
          all night. Position doubtful. Barometer 29.43.

January 11, 1943.
0902(L) Arrived at estimated position Lat. 1°-10' S, Long. 148°-50'E
          which is directly ahead of enemy, dived and commenced sub-
          merged patrol, periscope observation every eight (8) minutes.
          Set course to keep on enemy track. Sky overcast, sea choppy.

1950(L) Obtained first star fix for several days. Found we were
          sixty (60) miles to northeast of our estimated position, and
          in TRITON'S area. Began clearing TRITON'S area at high
          speed, heading for 1°-10'S, 148°-50' E.

January 12, 1943.
          Patrolling in vicinity of Lat. 1°-10'S, Long. 148°-50' E,
          where two reported tracks of enemy units intersect. Sea
          choppy, rain and poor visibility all day.

1925(L) Surfaced and headed east. Light rain during night but
          visibility generally good.

January 13, 1943.
0650(L) Sighted MUSSAU Is., bearing 183° T, distance 15 miles.
          Visibility good, except for rain squall in certain sectors.

1629(L) Sighted smoke and masts of two (2) ships, bearing 260° T,
          distance 9 miles. Angle on bow 60° port. Our position 15
          miles northeast of MUSSAU Is. Commenced approach at high
          speed. Never saw targets again. They were first lost in
          hazy background of MUSSAU Is., and were later obscured by
          rain which set in between GREENLING and MUSSAU Is. Con-
          tinued approach at high speed for over an hour, sighted
          MUSSAU Is., but could never again pick up targets. Believe
          targets passed between MUSSAU and EMIRAU Is., and were
          headed from Strait between NEW HANOVER and KINGWON Is. Did
          not surface and give chase because (1) of proximity of land
          which is inhabited, (2) impossibility of being able to over-
          haul high speed targets before they reach turning point, and
          (3) poor visibility. Hulls and stacks were never seen.
          Believe targets were an AK and a DD.

1925(L) Surfaced and headed for vicinity of TENCH Is., hoping to
          catch traffic which leaves KAVEANG at dusk.

January 14, 1943.
0153(L) Received information concerning prospective arrival of enemy
          unit at KAVEANG on sixteenth. Decided attempt interception.
          Patrolling on Lat. 1°-15' S during day, between 150° and
          181° E.

10

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[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
January 15, 1943.
Patrolled about 10 miles northeast of MUSSAU Is.
which is on track of ships sighted on the thirteenth.
Good visibility continues.

2137(L) Received orders shifting area to E(n), as modified.
Headed southwest to get ahead of previously reported
enemy unit.

January 16, 1943.
0848(L) Sighted smoke over horizon, bearing 262° T. Our position
Lat 1°-51' S, Long 149°-03' E. As we could get in
submerged if target headed for KAVEANG, commenced
submerged approach. After more than an hour's high
speed running, which was roughly equivalent to a one
hour discharge, saw we could never make it submerged,
as target was on course 170° to 180° T. 1016(L)
Surfaced and gave chase on four main generators. SD
radar out of commission but operative again after an
hour. 1050(L) sighted native canoe with five men
aboard, bearing 220° S, distance 3 miles. 1055(L)
sighted smoke of another ship over the horizon, bearing
160° T. Lat. 02°-00' S, Long. 149°-05' E. Continued
chase but was forced to slow to avoid being sighted by
the ship to the south whose masts and top of stack were
now visible. Saw the ship last sighted at the larger
of the two so decided go after it since two other
submarines will get a chance at the smaller ship, while
the larger has already traversed most of their areas.
However, here again one ship prevented us from closing
and getting ahead of the other, until finally, at 1224(L),
the larger ship and its smoke could no longer be seen.
Shifted approach to the south bound ship. 1252(L)
sighted smoke of a third ship bearing 163° T, distance
12 miles. Lat. 2°-33' S, Long. 149°-08' E. This last
ship was east bound and while it forced us to slow for
a while to avoid being sighted by it, we eventually
pulled away to the east, and we were able to arrive at
a position on the port bow of the ship being trailed.
Decided maintain a relative position which would put
us directly ahead of this ship when it headed for
RABAUL. 1520(L) target c/c almost directly toward
GREENLING, heading for RABAUL. 1525(L) submerged and
commenced approach. Target was zigzagging with very short
legs. Saw target was escorted by a small vessel, later
identified as a tug, which continually patrolled ahead.
track. (Attack No. 7). Lat. 2°-47' S, Long. 149°-10' E.
1751(L) fired three (3) torpedoes, 3° spread, 90°
Two (2) hits. Tug was almost directly on top of us
when we fired so went and remained deep for about fifteen
minutes before returning to periscope depth. Meanwhile
tug dropped two (2) depth charges, neither very close,
and one large and over a hundred smaller explosions were
heard emanating from the target, indicating it was
carrying munitions.
13

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[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

These were followed by the usual breaking up noises.
Upon returning to periscope depth the tug was in
plain sight about 1500 yards away but the target was no-
where to be seen, and positively had sunk. It would
have been absolutely impossible for this 8 knot target
to still be afloat and not be seen at this time.
Greenling paralleled target base course while at deep
submergence. Visibility was excellent and the target
was seen more than 16000 yards away when Greenling
first submerged. Target's screws were heard clearly
before the torpedo detonations but were never heard
thereafter, while the escort's screws continued to be
heard. Escort continued to remain in the vicinity,
starting and stopping, never more than about 1500 yards
away. Saw tug had depth charge racks but no large
gun visible so decided go after him at dusk. 1946(L)
surfaced; tug in plain sight. Trouble with 3" breech
block delayed us for about ten minutes and were never
able to cock the 20mm gun during the following attack.
2000(L) attacked tug with 3" gun, from 2000 yards range.
(Attack No. 8). Half moon was up but it was quite hard
to see. Third shell hit target and if it had any guns
on board this shell disabled them for it never returned
our fire. Closed range and opened up with .50 caliber
and .30 caliber machine guns. Target hit many times and
was slightly on fire, but would not sink. Closed to
500 yards and put several shells in his hull at the
water line. Decided not to board on account of the depth
charges. After about 30 3" hits target sank slowly,
bow first. Expended much ammunition but was determined
to sink this vessel. Lat. 20-45' S, Long. 149°-20' E.

2050(L) Set course north and began moving toward own area at
high speed.

January 17, 1943.
Patrolling on an easterly course about 20 miles south
of MUSSAU Is. Sea smooth with swells, excellent
visibility.

1315(L) Sighted smoke bearing 353° T, distance 9 miles. Lat.
1°-45' S, Long. 149°-55' E. Commenced approach.
Later target sighted and was seen to be a two stack
AP. No escort was seen. At first thought target was
zigging but later saw it was only a course change.
Periscope was logged up and due to this, and the
necessity of exposing only a small length of periscope
above the swells, was not able to observe details of
target until range was under 2000 yards when saw it was
a hospital ship, the AMERICA MARU. Target's stacks were
dirty and could not see red crosses at any appreciable
range. Early during the approach, target's hull
appeared to be white, or near white, but as we were
almost dead ahead of target during most of approach

12

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DECLASSIFIED TIAL
the distinguishing hospital ship insignia could not be
seen for a long time. This ship had passed between
MASSAU and EMIRAU Is. Its speed was accurately checked
at 9 knots and its corresponding turn count was 72 RPM.

January 18, 1943.
0201(L) Received orders to leave area on 19th and to carry out
certain activities thereafter. Decided continue to
eastward and cover eastern portion of area before head-
ing west.

0430(L) Sighted southbound ship, bearing 070° T, Lat. 2°-00' S,
Long. 150°-30' E. We were between target and 3/4
moon, so pulled out of moonstreak, waited for moonset
(about 20 minutes) then closed target at high speed.
Passed target about 3000 yards abeam while obtaining
course and speed. SJ radar performing perfectly. Night
dark and hazy. When good solution obtained closed
target and saw it was a small steamer of about 500 T.,
undoubtedly an anti-submarine or escort vessel. Had
some doubt as to torpedo performance on this shallow
draft vessel, but since solution was so good, and since
target was not alert and was not zig-zagging, decided to
fire one (1) torpedo with depth setting zero. Closed
to 600 yards and at 0450(L) fired one (1) torpedo.
(Attack No. 9). Lat. 2°-04' S, Long. 150°-37' E.
Torpedo was seen to pass under target but failed to
detonate. After firing, turned away at high speed.
0452(L) target opened fire with a machine gun. Cleared
bridge, intending to open range on the surface, but
the diving alarm was sounded without orders. QM said
he thought he heard the order given. Initiative now
lost. Broke out 3" ammunition preparatory to
surfacing and engaging target with gunfire, when depth
charge attack began, four (4) well-separated charges,
only one (1) close; no damage. Target remained in
vicinity until 0540(L) when we surfaced. It was now
too late to locate and attack target by gunfire, as
dawn was beginning to break, so stood out to the
northeast, diving again at 0610(L).

1940(L) Surfaced and headed west. Moon nearly full, sky
practically cloudless, excellent visibility.

1954(L) Sighted three (3) searchlight beams in the direction
of KAVEANG.

2005(L) Sighted northbound ship, bearing 310° T, range 15,000
yards. Lat. 1°-50' S, Long. 151°-10' E. Commenced
trailing in the very bright moonlight. Closed to
13,000 yards, identified target as a large tanker in
light condition, zig-zagging. A DD escort was observed
patrolling all around the tanker. Continued trailing
from astern, solved base course 020° T, speed 12,
advance about 11 knots. SJ radar performing fine.

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2150(L) increased speed to pass targets and gain position
ahead, keeping about 13,000 yards distant while passing.
2225(L) DD c/c directly for us, range over 6 miles.
Turned away at high speed. 2230(L) escort challenged
submerged to periscope depth and changed course to
right, using letter "K". 2235(L) as range was closing rapidly,
2248(L) target
still closing rapidly, angle on bow still zero, decided to
go deep. Depth charge attack continued, eleven (11)
charges in all, three (3) quite close, about 200 yards
astern. DD remained in vicinity for some time
alternately starting and stopping. Never knew when the
DD drew away. 0100(L) came to periscope depth and then
surfaced; nothing in sight. Continued toward the West.
Decided against further trailing as tanker now probably
more than 30 miles away, direction unknown.

January 19, 1943.
0135(L) Sent contact report together with other information to
COMTASKFOR 42 on 8470 kcs. Receipt obtained promptly.

0315(L) Sighted ship, bearing 223° T, distance 6 miles. Lat.
0-35' S, Long. 150°-57' E. Commenced trailing and
obtained a position dead ahead of target, with target
in moonstreak. Kept target in moonstreak until moonset
about 0500(L), then commenced attack. Saw target was
small, about 200 feet long, but in spite of our
experience of yesterday decided attack with the single
torpedo remaining aft. Decided not to close range too
much as was suspicious of target in view of his course
(110° T) and appearance. (See par. 7g). Bright star-lit
night after moonset. As target approached saw range would
be greater than had anticipated but decided accept
situation, being committed to a stern tube shot. Had a
beautiful set-up on T.D.C. It was unnecessary to change
any input for more than five (5) minutes before firing.
SJ ranges and T.B.T. bearings coming in nicely. 0513(L)
fired one (1) torpedo, 90° track. Do not know where
torpedo went but it did not hit target although it may
(should) have passed under. (Very little phosphorescence
in water tonight compared with last night). Target
continued on its course and gave no indication that it
knew it had been attacked. One (1) explosion five (5)
minutes after firing. This was probably the torpedo
detonating at end of run.

Continued to head West. Crew now showing definite signs
of fatigue due recent continued activity. This fatigue
was no doubt aggravated by the general poor state of
health of the crew (See par. 12).

14

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DECLASSIFIENTIAL
January 20, 1943.
0030(L) Cleared area, heading for ADMIRALTY IS.
0628(L) Submerged in Lat. 10-40' S, Long. 147°-40' E.
Had intended to patrol on the surface during the
day but decided against such when a Nip submarine
was reported in the vicinity. Continued to close
MANUS IS. Sea smooth, variable visibility.
1924(L) Surfaced and headed west, about 20 miles north of
MANUS IS. Patrolled north and west of MANUS IS.
during the night. Full moon, excellent visibility.
January 21, 1943.
Patrolled on surface west and northwest of MANUS IS.
during the forenoon.
0730(L) Sighted HERMIT IS. bearing 320° T, distance 20 miles.
Sea smooth with swells, excellent visibility.
1218(L) Headed east, about 25 miles north of MANUS IS. Still
patrolling on the surface.
2312(L) Sighted PAK and TONG IS. Closed to 6 miles, then
spent the remainder of the night patrolling 6 to 10
miles north of these islands. Good night visibility.
January 22, 1943.
0609(L) Submerged 6 miles north of channel between PAK and
TONG IS. Began closing PAK.
0800 to Completely circumnavigated PAK IS., 1 to 2 miles
1900(L) off shore, except where prevented by reefs to
northwest. Looked carefully for radio station,
antennae, masts, etc, but was able to detect no
evidence of such. (See par. 5A for details of
observation of PAK). Two (2) native boats under
sail were in sight throughout most of the after-
noon and an outrigger canoe containing six (6) men
was observed at 1900(L). When radio station was not
sighted through the periscope, surfaced at 1900(L),
about 20 minutes before sunset, and again patrolled
the south side of the island but with negative results.
If there is a radio station on PAK it is so well
camouflaged that it can not be seen from seaward.
2000(L) Set course for VITIAZ Strait. Received message
concerning WAHOO.
2045(L) Sent radio message reporting results of
reconnaissance in vicinity of ADMIRALTY IS.

15

— page 129 —
DECLASSIFIEDTIAL

January 23, 1943.
0631(L) Submerged, continuing toward VITIAZ STRAIT. CROWN,
          LONG and TOLOKIWA IS. in plain sight throughout the
          day. Sea glassy, no wind. Water very clear; can
          see own deck at 58 ft. depth, looking through the
          surface of the water with periscope. Began running
          at 120 ft. between observations.

          Traversed VITIAZ STRAIT during the night, WAHOO
          not sighted.

January 24, 1943.
0100(L) Sent radio message to C.T.F. 42 giving estimate of
          GREENLING's endurance. Continued to head toward
          Point WHITE.

January 25, 1943.
0135(L) Received directive to proceed to Brisbane.

January 26, 1943.
          Rainy all day and most of the night. Poor
          visibility.
2400(L) Passed Point WHITE; c/c for Point HORSE.

January 27, 1943.
          Began surface running during daylight, zig-zagging
          with additional torpedo and periscope lookout set.
2126(L) Sent radio report of present position and estimated
          time of arrival Point BUD. Sea rough from south and
          east during the night. Much rain; poor visibility.

January 28, 1943.
          Sea and wind increased in intensity, greatly retarding
          our advance. Sky overcast, generally poor visibility
          day and night.
1815(L) Sent radio report of revised estimate of time of
          arrival Point BUD.

January 29, 1943.
          Very rough seas, high winds and overcast skies
          continue. Position doubtful.
1950(L) Commenced battery discharge at 6 hr. rate.
2230(L) Passed east of Point Horse in order more safely
          avoid reefs during storm.

                                                            16

— page 130 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
January 30, 1943.
0210(L) Completed 6 hr. battery discharge, 101% capacity
obtained.

Storm has abated somewhat; obtained fair sun sights
during the day.

1933(L) Passed Point BUD; set course for Point VAN.

January 31, 1943.
0215(L) Passed Point VAN.

0245(L) Sighted outbound convoy. Exchanged recognition
signals with escorts.

Arrived Brisbane same date.

17

— page 131 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

2. Weather.

Enroute to station the weather was generally fair
with excellent visibility. On station, the weather ranged
from flat calms with perfect visibility to very rough seas
and heavy rain. There was much higher percentage of poor
visibility and generally bad weather than on two previous
tropical patrols. The passage to Brisbane was accompanied
by good weather until January 26 when a storm was encountered
which continued until January 30.

18

— page 132 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
3.
Tidal Information.
The following currents were observed while on
station:

Off North Entrance Bougainville Strait and in
center of area D(s) - Set 130°T, drift 1.3 knots.

Near equator in vicinity of 150° E - Set 090°T,
drift 1 knot.

Vicinity Lat. 1°-30' S, Long. 148°-152° E - Set
090°T, drift 1.5 knots.

Vicinity of MUSSAU and EMIRAU Is. - Set 180°T,
drift 0.2 knots.

Twenty (20) miles north of Admiralty Is. - Set
000°T, drift 1 knot.

Vicinity of PAK and TONG Is. - no current
observed.

19

— page 133 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
SIFIEDTIAL

4. Navigational Aids.

No burning navigational lights were seen in any
of the areas patrolled. The light reportedly displayed
(at times) on PAK was not seen, nor was any light-supporting
structure in evidence. PAK Island is inaccurately drawn on
British Admiralty Chart No. 3832. (See par. 5A). Fairly
satisfactory cuts were obtained in the vicinity of PAK and
TONG.

20

— page 136 —
6.
Aircraft Sighted.
TIME
DATE
POSITION
COURSE
ALTITUDE
DESCRIPTION
1:0859(W):Dec 10
:
2:0909(W): Dec 12
3:1315(W):Dec 12
:
4:1639(W)
:
(W): Dec 12
5:0915(Y):Dec 18
:
6:0508(L): Dec 22
:
7:1010(L):Dec 28
:
8:0558(L): Jan 10
: Lat 18-40N
:
:
:
:
Long 163-10W
:240°T
: 1000 ft.
: PBY
: Lat 13-40N
Long 172-10W
:2000T
:1500 ft.
: Unidentified
:
:
:
: Lat 13-30N
Long 172-30W
:
:
059°T
:1000 ft.
: Two engined patrol
:
:
:
: Lat 13-15N
:240°T
: 1000 ft.
:
Long 172-50W
Lat 3-00N
:
:
Long 169-00W
:
Lat 5-45S
: Long 156-48E
:
Lat 00-20s
: Long 150-45E
:
Lat 1-095
:
:
Long 150-16E
:plane; otherwise
unidentified
:Large plane; otherwise
: unidentified
Radar contact close
:aboard, not seen
Radar contact 6 miles;
:not seen
:Radar contact 24 miles;
not seen
Radar contact, close
:aboard, not seen
CODECLASSIFIEDAL
23

— page 137 —
[STAMP: CODECLASSIFIED]

7. Particulars of Attacks - Remarks.
Attacks No. 1 and 2.
(a) The four explosions heard and felt corresponded to a torpedo
run of about 1050 yards, although the estimated range (which was only
an eye estimate made through the periscope) was nearer 1500 yards.
The intervals between explosions corresponded to firing intervals
between the first, second, third and fifth torpedoes fired. Three (3)
distinct and separate screws were heard before firing, but only two
(2) thereafter. The counter attack was delivered by only one vessel.
Five (5) torpedoes were fired at the leading warship because: (1) it
was possibly a cruiser, (2) neither its course, range nor speed were
accurately known and it was desired to make certain of at least one
hit on this valuable target. The speed of the convoy was definitely
less than what it was early in the chase. The leading warship could
not be definitely identified, but it was either a small cruiser or a
large destroyer. It is believed to have been a destroyer of at
least 1500 tons. The tanker was definitely not as long as the
warship and is estimated at about 3000 tons. The sea was smooth and
own speed was about three (3) knots at the time of firing.

Attacks No. 3 and 4.
(b) The larger of the two ships sunk was a long, modern flush
deck freighter, single stack, with two goal posts forward and one
or two aft, estimated at 9000 tons. The smaller vessel was further
away and its details were not closely observed. But it was a typical
medium AK and estimated at 5000 tons. According to the explosion
intervals, the third torpedo had a run of 9 seconds longer than the
first two, indicating that the smaller and rear most ship was about
250 yards beyond the larger. The SJ radar performed perfectly during
these approaches and attacks.

All ships in the convoy were in the light condition. The
large ship was especially light and was very hard to sink.

Attacks No. 5 and 6.
(c) The interval between the time of firing and the resulting
explosion indicated that the last of the three (3) torpedoes fired
in attack No. 6 was the one that hit. The tanker appeared to be
a 9100 ton vessel of the RIKKO MARU class, while the DD was a two
stacker of the SHIGURE or ASASHIO class.

Attack No. 7
(d) The torpedo run was about 750 yards, and the interval between
explosions indicated that the first and second torpedoes hit. Target
was a typical three island coal-burning freighter, two masts, single
stack, about 5000 tons. One large gun was mounted forward.

Attack No. 8
(e) The poor visibility and rolling sea prevented a high
percentage of 3" hits until the range was closed to less than 1000
yards. A high percentage of the high capacity ammunition first
employed detonated on contact, but the common ammunition later used
appeared more effective against a vessel as heavily constructed as
this one.

[HANDWRITTEN: 24]

— page 138 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
This tug was steam driven, about 150 to 200 tons, high stack, single
low mast, high superstructure. It had a boat mounted on davits but
no attempt was made to use it. It had depth charge racks aft. It
was capable of considerably more speed than the eight knots the larger
ship was making.

Attack No. 9
(f) At this close range and with the solution obtained, a hit
was almost certain with proper torpedo performance. The torpedo
itself was seen to pass under the forward part of the target, the
wake bubbles appearing later. Torpedo broached about 500 yards
after crossing target's track. The target undoubtedly drew less than
ten feet, and the torpedo did not detonate magnetically, possibly due
to insufficient iron on the target vessel. Target was of unusual
construction. It had the lines and appearances of a small freighter
but its tonnage could not have been more than 500. It now appears
that a gun attack and not a torpedo attack was in order, but it is
difficult, at night, to determine the armament of this type of vessel.
The inadvertent submergence lost the initiative for us and subjected
us to an unnecessary depth charging. Positive steps have been taken
on board to insure that there will be no doubt in the future as to
when and whether the order to sound the diving alarm has been given.
Target was making 120 RPM which checked at 9 knots, and was headed
for KAVEANG.

Attack No. 10.
(g) Target was about 1000 T., and had a large box-like structure
forward and another aft with a single stack aft. Its peculiar
appearance and its unusual course (110°T) gave the impression of a
Q ship. Target was not zig-zagging. GREENLING has now had its
fling of firing at small targets with the present torpedoes.

25

— page 140 —
CODECLASSIFIED
7. SUMMARY OF SUBMARINE ATTACKS
SHIP GREENLING
(大) 7 | (2)8 | (8) 9 | (木) 10 | (5) | (6)
. Attack | Torpedo | Gun | Torpedo | Torpedo | |
Date | 16 Jan | 16 Jan | 18 Jan | 19 Jan | |
Location | (Lat.) 2-47S | 2-45S | 2-04S | 1-35S | |
| (Long.) 149-10E | 149-20E | 150-37E | 150-57E | |
Torpedoes Fired | | 60rds3 | 300rds.50 cal | 1 | 1 |
on each Attack | 3 | 125rds.30 cal | 1 | 0 |
Hits | 2 | 30 3" many m.gs | 0 | |
Number | | 1-150 to | | | |
ink (Tonnage) | 1-5000 т | 200 т | 0 | 0 | |
umber Damaged | | | | | |
[HANDWRITTEN: xxprobablyxx]
Type of | Loaded | Escort | 500Tescort | 1000T ** | |
Target | AK | Tug | vessel | Maru | |
Range 1500 | | | | | |
Yards or Less | 900 | 500 to2000 | 600 | | |
Range More | | | | | |
Than 1500 Yards | | | | 2200 | |
Periscope | | | | | |
Depth | Yes | | | | |
Surface Night | | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Deep Submergence | | | | | |
Estimated | | | | | |
Draft Target. | 20 | 6 | 10 | | |
Torpedo Depth | | | | | |
tting | 6 | 0 | 0 | | |
Bow or Stern Shot | Stern | Bow | Stern | | |
Track Angle | 90S | 90S | 90P | | |
Gyro Angle | 15R | 0 | 4L | | |
Estimate Speed Target | 8 | 9 | 10.7 | | |
Firing Interval | 7 sec. | | | | |
Spread - Amount | | | | | |
and Kind | 3º div. | | | | |
Remarks:
* Torpedo passed under target but did not detonate.
** Possibly Q ship.

Note: This form is to be submitted by each submarine with the narrative of war operations. May
be submitted in rough.
228-USS Fulton-7-20-42-1M.
27

— page 141 —
CODECLASSIFIEAL
8. Enemy anti-submarine measures.
(a) Depth charged by DD on 22 December, following attack on
another warship and small tanker. This counter-attack was very
ineffective, only two (2) charges, neither close. This DD was
possibly influenced by what had already happened to the other
warship present.
(b) The two small steamers escorting the convoy attacked on
30 December sighted Greenling while we were on the surface
during the day and attempted to chase us off, but did not have
sufficient speed to close us. One or both of them attempted
to close us after the attack the same night but we had no
difficulty eluding them on the surface.
(c) The tanker attacked on January 6 was alert and sighted
us before we fired, at a range of 1000 yards. It then increased
speed and headed directly for us, subsequently opening fire with
its forward gun at 1200 yards range. The DD escort was much
less aggressive and kept generally astern of the tanker, con-
tenting itself with dropping a few depth charges while we were on
the surface. About four (4) minutes after we made our second
attack on the tanker (attack No. 6), two (2) explosions were
experienced by Greenling, one of them quite violent. We were
still on the surface and over 3000 yards distant from either
the DD or the tanker. These last two explosions were much too
violent to have been due to depth charges 3000 yards away.
They can be attributed only (1) to bombs dropped by an unseen
aircraft (one was subsequently picked up on the SD radar although
this might have been a false contact, or (2) to explosions of
torpedoes fired by the escort, such explosions occurring in our
wake. We were making high speed at the time. No appreciable
damage occurred as a result of these explosions, although gear
which had remained in place during earlier patrols was dislodged.
(d) Depth charged by small tug escorting AK which was sunk
on January 16, 1943; only two (2) charges, not especially close,
no damage.
(e) Under machine gun fire by escort or anti-submarine vessel
at 600 yards range on January 18. Although some bullets probably
hit superstructure, no damage or personnel casualties resulted.
(f) Depth charged by same vessel on January 18, following
inadvertent submergence. Four (4) charges dropped, only one (1)
close. No damage.
(g) Depth charged by DD escorting tanker during the night of
January 18, eleven (11) charges, three (3) of which were about
200 yards astern. The facts (1) that the DD picked us up at
13,000 yards range during moonlight, and (2) that DD had our
range so accurately, indicate that some Jap DD's may now be
equipped with radar. No pinging was used but only the usual
listening tactics. The DD crept away at such low speed that we
were unable to determine, by sound, when it left.
28

— page 142 —
CONDECLASSIFIED

9.   Description of Enemy Mine Sweeping Operations.

     None observed.

                                      29

— page 143 —
DECLASSIFIEDIAL
10. Major Defects Experienced.
(a) 14 December - SJ radar motor generator out of commission
for 24 hours due bad misalignment.
(b) 21-22 December - No target echo obtainable on SJ radar
throughout attack. Corrected by replacing signal video tube
of range indicator unit.
(c) 22 December and 29 December - Leaky inboard and outboard
exhaust valves of No. 1 main engine and outboard exhaust valve
of No. 2 auxiliary engine. Grinding in the outboard valve
stopped the leak.
(d) 29 December - TDC forward angle solver section failed to
give a solution. Sine follow-up motor humming, was receiving
a signal, but would not start of its own accord. A slight
manual rotation would again set motor in operation. Unable
locate any binding in forward angle solver unit nor could
the casualty be reproduced, more than one time, on subsequent
tests. However, since it had occurred on previous patrols,
decided make motor shaft accessible for manual starting in
case the casualty did occur again. As removal of entire
front cover of unit would disengage offset and other hand
setting knobs, drilled a hole in front cover of unit in line
with sine motor shaft. Then provided a rubber capped tool to
rotate sine motor shaft by friction, through this hole. The
drilled hole was threaded and a plug provided to maintain
watertightness, except during an attack.
(e) 28 December to end of patrol - Repeated leakage through
safety and bow buoyancy blow valves. Grinding in these valves,
which necessitates cutting off high pressure air from the
entire manifold, stops the leakage for the time being.
(f) 1 January to end of patrol - Freon leakage through recently
silver-soldered joints in air conditioning system. The extra
large supply of freon on hand barely lasted the patrol.
(g) 1 January - Liner of No. 8 cylinder of No. 1 main engine
carried away when the engine was started. A segment, about
4" square, was blown out of the liner. Piston and rings were
damaged. Liner, piston and rings replaced and the engine
back in commission 24 hours later.
(h) 2 January - Both hoist cables of No. 2 periscope began to
give way, many wires of several strands being ruptured. These
cables were installed at Midway in September and were not
standard periscope hoist cables. Defective cables replaced
with a spare set of standard cables which had been carried
on board as spares.

30

— page 144 —
DECLASSIFIEDIAL
-
(i) Trim pump - To noisy to be used during the latter stages
of an approach on a screened target or when running silent.

(j) No. 1 periscope - Still excessively stiff in train,
requiring two men to train it.
-
(k) No. 2 periscope - Now trains sufficiently easy provided
it is greased every night. This frequent greasing, however,
probably results in some grease getting from the well to the
periscope upper window, causing water to adhere to the window
with consequent difficulty in making observations. No. 2
periscope pounds against one of the upper bearings each time
it is hoisted.

31

— page 145 —
CDECLASSIFIEDAL
10. Radio Reception.
Reception of the Belconnen Broadcasts was good at
all times and was better at night than during daylight.
5600 kcs, 8370 kcs and occasionally 12330 kcs were the
frequencies used for reception. The SD radar caused
considerable interference on the higher frequency channels.

No difficulty was encountered in delivering traffic
thru VHKO on 8470 kcs. Acknowledgement for this traffic was
gratifyingly prompt.

A station using the call sign KOK caused some
interference every hour from half past to a quarter to the
hour.

Press reports were copied Friday nights from VIXO
between 1230 and 1245 GCT. Attempts were made with no
success to hear news broadcasts on the ships broadcast
receivers.

Last consecutive serial number sent 280715

Last consecutive serial number received BL 957
301302

32

— page 146 —
CODECLASSIFICAL
12
11. Sound Conditions and Density Layers.
Sound conditions were at best only fair. An
exception occurred in area Easy North where the screws of
a hospital ship were heard at 5600 yards. Noises that
might have been of volcanic origin were heard in area
affirm.

No density layers were observed.

33

— page 147 —
DECLASSIFIED AL
13
12.
Health and Habitability.
The health of the crew was considerably worse than
on any previous patrol. There were twelve cases of an
undetermined illness, all having high fever and body pains,
a few having some of the symptoms of catahhral fever. One
of these, an early case and the most serious one, was
tentatively diagnosed as influenza (temperature 105°) and
it is possible that the later cases were the same disease.
One case of severe tonsilitis required relief from duty.
One man was admitted to the sick list for a severe he ad
injury which resulted when a torpedo testing gauge gave way
under pressure. Most of the illness occurred after the
40th day. The figure of 43 total sick days is low because
certain personnel having high fever were not admitted to the
sick list because of the nature of their duties.
There were many colds (considerably more than usual)
and minor infections not requiring relief from duty. A
considerable portion of the officers and crew are completing
their fourth successive patrol but it cannot be said that the
illness was confined chiefly to this group. The number of
toothaches occurring during the patrol suggests the
recommendation that all personnel be given a dental examination
early during the refit period and that those having bad teeth
be treated without delay.
Except for the forward torpedo room, habitability
was satisfactory. The addition of exhaust ventilation to
the conning tower is a decided improvement. Due to leaks in
the air conditioning system the amount of gas on hand barely
lasted the patrol.
34

— page 148 —
DECLASSIFIED TIAL
14 16.
Miles steamed, Pearl to Station - 3135.
Miles steamed, Station to Brisbane - 1937.
151.
Fuel oil expended - 85000 gal.
1675.
Factors of endurance remaining:
Torpedoes
-
3
Fuel
-
7000 gal.
Provisions
-
7 days (balanced)
Personnel
-
O days at VITIAZ
Strait

35

— page 149 —
0
DECLASSIFIED TAL
17
16.
Factor of Endurance causing end of patrol.

The normal patrol period was ended without
completely reaching any factor of endurance, although
personnel fatigue was pronounced on the 40th day and
became increasingly worse thereafter until daylight
surface running was resumed. However, the patrol period
might have been extended had not the commanding officer
reported that personnel fatigue was too great for
additional effective patrol on station. The unusual
amount of sickness undoubtedly had its influence in
inducing personnel fatigue. Only 7000 gal. fuel, less
than 10% capacity, was on hand upon arrival Brisbane.

36

— page 150 —
:
DECLASSIFIED AL
1817
(a)
Remarks.
This vessel had no difficulty in delivering any of the
several radio messages transmitted by it. In every case it
was possible to reduce transmission to a minimum, and a receipt
was obtained promptly. The Australian stations are most
commendably alert and efficient. This is in decided contrast
with our previous patrols when it often required several hours
intermittent transmission to deliver a message, and at other
times the message could not be delivered at all.

(b) As far as it could be determined the special coating
applied to the lenses of No. 2 periscope did not appreciably
increase the light transmission through it. Our periscopes
are still inadequate for use in submerged night attacks.

(c)
(d)
Traffic Movement.
1. Area D(s). There was apparently little traffic in
this area during the six days we patrolled it, and the
only traffic sighted, a small northbound convoy, left
Bougainville Strait about dusk.

2. Areas north of New Ireland.
(a) Most traffic between the Empire, and possibly
TRUK, and RABAUL is believed to pass between
Long. 149E and the Admiralty Is. Southbound
traffic moves in a generally southerly direction
until New Hanover Is. is passed and then makes
a radical course change almost direct for Rabaul.
(b) While there may be traffic movement between
PAK and TONG IS., none was observed in the short
period spent in that vicinity. It should be
remarked that this passage is not a particularly
easy one to negotiate during darkness in view
of RAMBUTYO Is. and its reefs to the south,
(c) At least some south bound traffic to KAVEANG
passes in the immediate vicinity of MUSSAU and
EMIRAU IS. Some ships traverse the passage
between these islands.
(d) Northbound traffic from KAVEANG appears to pass
within ten miles of TENCH Is., especially to the
eastward of TENCH.

The following recommendations are made:
1. The present markings on hospital ships should be
supplemented by
37
(a) A very large red cross flag flown at the top of
one of the masts, and
(b) A large red cross painted athwartships across the
forward side of the bridge structure. These
additional markings may prevent the sinking of
one of these vessels by mistake. At present this
type of vessel is difficult to identify from a

— page 151 —
A
:
DECLASSIFIED AL
position dead ahead.
2. Valves and seats of special material should be
provided for safety and bow buoyancy blow valves, to
eliminate the necessity of frequent grinding in.
Grinding in these valves is not particularly difficult
but the submarine is unable to blow its tanks with
high pressure air while the grinding in operation is
in progress.
3. Each submarine should carry on board at least one
spare hoist cable for its most used periscope. Had
not spare cables been available on board Greenling
during this patrol, we would have been forced to use
the low periscope.
(e)
The extra watches and additional duties imposed by the
considerable amount of sickness during the patrol were cheerfully
performed by the remaining crew members. The Commanding Officer
has only the highest praise for the entire crew during the
conduct of the entire patrol.

38

— page 152 —
Reg. No.
2257
P.S. 3-0225
COMSOPAC FILE
A16-3/(11)
Serial 0242
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
OF THE UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET
HEADQUARTERS OF THE COMMANDER
DECLASSIFIEDI-A-L
From:
To
:
Subject:
1st Endorsement on
CTF 42 Conf. Ltr.
FF12-15(42)/A16-3
Serial (031) of
February 2, 1943.
hb
FEB 18 1943
The Commander South Pacific Area and South
Pacific Force.
The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
U.S.S. GREENLING, Fourth War Patrol; comment on.
1.
Forwarded. There is little to be added to the
comments of CTF 42 covering the GREENLING's excellent Fourth
War Patrol. It is, as well, the fourth consecutive excellent
war patrol for the ship and the Commanding Officer. Previous
tonnage average was approximately maintained and the skill,
aggressiveness, and persistence was even more pronounced.
Twelve hits of twenty one torpedoes fired gives the impres-
sive percentage of 571.
2.
Attention is invited to the Commanding Officer's
recommendations in Par. 18(d) regarding hospital ship markings.
3.
GREENLING is congratulated on the damage inflict-
ed on the enemy in such a skillful and determined manner and it
is hoped that the Commanding Officer, Commander H. Chester
Bruton, U.S.N., will accomplish several more such fine patrols
in the months to come.
[SIGNATURE: W.F. Halsey]
W. F. HALSEY
Copy to:
VCNO
Cincpac
Cinclant
Comsowespac
Comsubpac
Comsublant
Comsubsowespac
CTF 42
Comsubron 8
Comsubdiv 81
CO USS GREENLING
V
[STAMP: COMMANDER IN CHIEF
U.S. FLEET
RECEIVED
1943 MAR 4 8 53]
98

— page 153 —
FF12-15(42)/A16-3
[DECLASSIFIED: OPHAV INST 5500.30]
Serial: (031616 [HANDWRITTEN: DATE 7-22-6])
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

From:
To :
Via:
Subject:
Enclosure:
1.
2.
TASK FORCE FORTY-TWO,
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
February 2, 1943.
The Commander Task Force FORTY-TWO.
The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
The Commander SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE.
U.S.S. GREENLING, Fourth War Patrol; comments on.
(A) Copy of subject patrol report.
Enclosure (A) is forwarded herewith.
GREENLING's excellent Fourth War Patrol commenced
on her departure from Pearl Harbor December 9, 1942. She arriv-
ed in the patrol area north of BOUGAINVILIE STRAIT December 21st,
where on the next day she sank a 1500-ton destroyer with four
torpedo hits out of five fired, and missed with one torpedo at a
small tanker. On December 26th she was shifted to a roving
patrol station near the Equator and north of New Ireland. She
encountered there on December 30th a northbound, empty four-ship
convoy, of which she sank one 9,000-ton cargo vessel with four
torpedo hits out of five fired and another cargo vessel of 5,000
tons with a single torpedo. On January 10, 1943, GREENLING attack-
ed and damaged an empty tanker of 9,000 tons with one hit out of
four torpedoes. On January 16th, she sank a loaded cargo vessel
in Lat. 2-40 S, Long. 149 - 10 E., with two hits out of three
torpedoes, and then sank a small escort vessel by gun fire. On
January 18th she missed a 500 ton escort vessel with a single
torpedo, and next day missed a 1000 ton steamer with another
single torpedo. On January 21-22, GREENLING reconnoitered PAK
and TONG ISLANDS in the eastern ADMIRALTY ISLANDS with negative
results, and then began her passage to BRISBANE via VITIAZ STRAIT.
She arrived January 31, 1943, after a patrol of fifty two days
duration, having obtained twelve hits with twenty one torpedoes
fired.
3.
The patrol was conducted in the efficient manner
that has characterized all of GREENLING's war patrols. The report
is excellent, and carries lessons for all submarine officers.
All attacks are well and clearly described in the report and are
considered to require no further analysis.
4.
After the December 30th attacks, in which two ships
of a convoy of four were sunk GREENLING's Commanding Officer
decided to remain in the vicinity and investigate the scene of
sinkings for positive evidence of destruction, rather than to
chase the two remaining ships of the convoy.

-1-

— page 154 —
FF12-15(42)/A16-3
Serial: (031)
DECLASSIFIED-A-L
Subject:
TASK FORCE FORTY-TWO,'
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
February 2, 1943.
U.S.S. GRENLING, Fourth War Patrol;
Comments on.
It is believed that indoctrination is mainly responsible u
for his decision. The importance of actually seeing the Jap
sink has been vigorously and repeatedly stressed by submarine
task force commanders for many months. It is unquestionably
desirable in the normal case, and always satisfying, to ob-
tain positive confirmation of sinkings. However it is bel-
ieved that when the Commanding Officer is satisfied that he
can inflict no further damage at the scene of the attack he
should not remain there long when there is an opportunity to
chase other targets. Nor should he remain there when anti-
submarine measures appear liable to put him wholly on the
defensive. The above remarks cannot detract from this ex-
cellent patrol. They are made merely with a view to temper-
ing and qualifying a dogma now believed to have been some-
what over-emphasized. The skill and aggressiveness of
GREENLING'S Commanding Officer, and his trait of dogged per-
sistence, amply demonstrated in his previous patrols, were
again impressively active throughout this one.
5. The following comments are submitted in con-
nection with specific items mentioned in the Patrol Report:-
(a) Air conditioning It is of great importance
that submarines on long patrols in the tropical
waters of this area have adequate and well-
functioning air conditioning plants, both for
habitability, and consequent alertness of pers-
onnel, and also for proper functioning of elec
trical and finely adjusted mechanical, devices
which are liable to be affected by long periods
of high humidity. GREENLING's leaky, air cond-
itioning piping will be thoroughly repaired by
FULTON, who has recently acquired an expert in
that field.
-
(b) Radio communications It is gratifying to note
that GREENLING encountered no difficulty in del-
ivering radio traffic to the Australian stations.
-
- 2-
61B
کی
4

— page 155 —
고12-15(42)/A16-3
Serial: (031)
DECLASSIFIED [HANDWRITTEN: I-A-L]
Subject:
T.SK FOROS FORTY-TWO,
c/o Fleet lost Office,
San Francisco, California,
February 2, 1943.
U.C.S. GREEN LING, Fourth War Patrol;
comments on.

— page 156 —
ISI CONY
SS213/A16-3
U.S.S. GREENLING (SS213)
[DECLASSIFIED OPNAV INST 5500.30
EY 976 DATE 2-22-6]
[DECLASSIFIED]
From:
To :
Subject:
Reference:
Enclosure:
1.
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
April 26, 1943.
The Commanding Officer.
The Commander Task Force SEVENTY-TWO.
U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Fifth War
Patrol.
(a) CTF 42 Conf.Ltr. Serial O10 of
January 18, 1943.
(A) Subject Patrol Report.
In accordance with reference (a), enclosure
(A) is forwarded herewith.
[SIGNATURE: Jd Grant]
J. D. GRANT.
49510
FILMED
[DECLASSIFIED]
[HANDWRITTEN: ⑦]

— page 157 —
CO-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. GREENLING
FIFTH WAR PATROL

PERIOD

5 01889

From:
February 21, 1943 Το:
April 26, 1943

Not to be taken to Sea
BURN.

2

— page 158 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. GREENLING
U.S.S. GREENLING - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
(a)
PROLOGUE:
Arrived Brisbane on January 30, 1943, from Fourth
War Patrol. Commenced refit on January 31, 1943, by
U.S.S. FULTON. Completed refit on February 21, 1943.
Ship was wiped at Hamilton Wharf on February 18, 1943.
Fifth War Patrol to be conducted in SOLOMONS - BISMARCK
AREA with operations controlled by dispatch.

(b) Narrative:
February 21, 1943. Surface enroute to station.
0900(L)
Underway from FULTON in accordance with
Commander Task Force Forty Two Operation
Order S13-43. Made noise test in Moreton
Bay. Made training runs submerged with escort.
1200(L)
Position Moreton Bay. Distance run 20 miles,
Fuel used 66 gallons.

February 22, 1943: Surface enroute to station.
Made training runs with escort.
1800(L)
Escort departed.
1200(L)
Position Lat. 26-41 S., Long 155-25 E..
Distance run 240 miles., Fuel used 1717 gal-
lons.

February 23, 1943. Surface enroute to station.
Fired test rounds from all guns.
1200(L)
Position Lat. 21-39 S., Long. 156-49 E.
Distance run 290 miles., Fuel used 4437 gal-
lons.

February 24, 1943. Surface enroute to station.
1200(L)
Position Lat. 16-31 S., Long. 156-27 E.
Distance run 300 miles., Fuel used 3970 gal-
lons.

February 25, 1943. Surface enroute to station.
1200(L)
Position Lat. 13-03 S., Long. 155-31 E.
Distance run 285 miles., Fuel used 3126 gal-
lons.

February 26, 1943.
Dived at dawn, being north of 12°-00'S
latitude for submerged patrol during daylight.
1200(L)
Position Lat. 09-51 S., Long. 156-17 E.
Distance run 170 miles., Fuel used 3339 gal-
lons.
1511(L)
Sighted landplane Lat. 9-53 S., Long. 156-
00.E., bearing 310°T.

-1-

— page 159 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. GREENLING
February 27, 1943.
1200(L)
Submerged patrol during daylight.
Position Lat. 07-46 S., Long. 154-28 E.
Distance run. 175 miles., Fuel used 1695 gal-
lons.
February 28, 1943.
2300(L)
1200(L)
Submerged patrol during daylight.
Made landfall on New Britian.
Position Lat. 06-15 S., Long. 153-08 E.
Distance run 85 miles., Fuel used 1434 gal-
lons.
March 1, 1943.
0730(L)
Submerged patrol during daylight.
Sighted aircraft (Jap-"Sally") flying out
from Wide Bay.
1200(L)
Position Lat. 05-46.S., Long. 152-12 E.
Distance run 52 miles., Fuel used 413 gal-
lons.
March 2, 1943.
2350(L)
Submerged patrol during daylight.
Completed special task. Departed,:
for Steffan Strait in accordance with CTF 42
dispatch.
1200(L)
Position: Lat. 05-28 S., Long. 152-02 E.
Distance run 165 miles., Fuel used 411 gal-
lons.
March 3, 1943.
1200(L)
Submerged patrol during daylight.
Position Lat. 5-07 S., Long. 153-07 E.
Distance run 171 miles., Fuel used 1046 gal-
lons.
March 4, 1943.
2122(L)
Submerged patrol during daylight.
On surface making 10 Kt not zigging. Single
torpedo missed GREENLING ahead. Track was
about 160° Starboard, seen by OOD and Navi-
gator crossing from starboard to port.
Track not seen by C.O. Submarine not sighted.
Lat. 2-37 S., Long. 152-47 E.
1200(L)
Position Lat. 2-55 S., Long. 153-00 E.
Distance run 174 miles., Fuel used 1638 gal
lons.
March 5, 1943.
0700(L)
Submerged patrol during daylight.
Sighted unidentified aircraft bearing 225°T,
distance 7 miles, Lat. 2-04 S., Long. 151-
22 E.

-2-

— page 160 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. GREENLING

March 5, 1943. (Cont'd)
0945(L) Sighted Tubami class patrol vessel bearing
352°T, distance 5 miles on course 200°T.
She was echo ranging on long scale.
Decided too small to attack; watched her
out of sight. Lat. 2-03 S., Long. 151-15 E.
1200(L) Position Lat. 01-41 S., Long. 151-08 E.
Distance run 173 miles., Fuel used 1433
gallons. Patrolled at night north of
Kavieng.

March 6, 1943.
Submerged patrol during daylight.
Patrolling east and west between Tench Island
and Steffan Strait.
1345(L) Sighted smoke on horizon bearing 304°T, to
west of Tench Island, distance about 12 miles
course north. Could not close. Lat. 1-43 S.,
Long. 151-25 E.
1200(L) Position Lat. 01-47 S., Long. 150-28 E.
Distance run 97 miles., Fuel used 639 gallons.

March 7, 1943.
Submerged patrol during daylight.
0445(L) Patrolling on surface. Sighted two ships
bearing 350°T distance by radar 10000 yards
on southerly course. Dawn was breaking and
since we were in good position for submerged
attack, decided to dive.
0500(L) Just before diving alarm was sounded he
flashed a red and white recognition signal.
0510(L) Raised periscope for a look and two depth
charges were dropped about 1000 yards away.
Saw dark shape headed toward us. Went to
300 and rigged for depth charge attack.
Escort echo ranged and listened for next two
hours. Smoke yesterday to west of Tench Island
ship today east.
0700(L) Periscope depth. All clear. Unable to
identify ship or ships. Lat. 1°-41'S.,
Long. 150°-47'E.
Received message from CTF 42 directing
GREENLING to cover routes to Rabaul remaining
south of New Hanover and East of Tingwon
Island.
1200(L) Position Lat. 1-28 S., Long. 150-48 E.
Distance run 65 miles., Fuel used 327 gallons.

March 8, 1943.
Submerged patrol during daylight, 30 miles
south of New Hanover.
1250(L) Sighted smoke bearing 211°T distant 10 miles
Lat. 3-13S., Long. 149-53 E. and commenced
approach. Closed to 4000 yards and identified
ships as one torpedo boat of OTORI class
-3- [HANDWRITTEN: 10]

— page 161 —
CONFIDENTIAL
                                U.S.S. GREENLING

March 8, 1943. (Cont'd)
             one minesweep similar to AM-13 class but bear-
             ing number 11 and one tug towing two hundred
             foot interisland steamer. All drafts too
             shallow for torpedo. All ships smoked consid-
             erably throughout the observation and zig zag-
             ging radically.
1200(L)      Position Lat. 3-10 S., Long. 149-48 E.
             Distance run 168 miles., Fuel used 1310 gal-
             lons.

March 9, 1943.
             Submerged patrol during daylight.
0245(L)      Patrolling on surface, visibility 500 yards;
             sound contact on screws and echo ranging
             close aboard. Made out small patrol vessel
             400 yards away. All ahead full on four engines
             cleared vicinity of patrol vessel. Lat. 3-12 S.,
             Long. 150-07 E.
0315(L)      Slowed to 3 Kts and continued surface patrol,
             contact lost.
0920(L)      Received message from CTF 42 to proceed to
             WeWak.
1200(L)      Position Lat. 3-00 S., Long. 150-05 E.
             Distance run 72 miles., Fuel used 364 gallons.

March 10, 1943.
             Submerged patrol during daylight.
0345(L)      Making 17 Kts on surface. Struck submerged
             object which jarred ship sharply. No damage
             found except Pit-ometer Log carried away,
             D.R.A.I. out of commission. Lost about two
             hours time while going at slow speed to de-
             termine whether or not in vicinity of reef.
1200(L)      Position Lat. 3-40 S., Long. 147-35 E.
             Distance run 160 miles., Fuel used 1974 gal-
             lons.

March 11, 1943.
             Submerged patrol during daylight.
0853(L)      Sighted large high wing two motored landplane
             bearing 70° distant 4 miles heading our
             way, altitude about 1000. Went to 120 feet -
             no charges dropped.
1530(L)      Sighted smoke bearing 283°T distant about
             15 miles. Could not close for approach.
1930(L)      Surfaced. Observed A.A. gunfire and search-
             lights on beach at WeWak.
1200(L)      Position Lat. 3-15 S., Long. 144-05 E.
             Distance run 230 miles., Fuel used 3404 gal-
             lons.

March 12, 1943.
             Submerged patrol during daylight.
[HANDWRITTEN: (11)]
1115(L)      Sighted small motor Sampan about 25 tons bear-
             ing 259°T. distant 3 miles, going north
                                -4-
                                                                    [HANDWRITTEN: S]

— page 162 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. GREENLING
March 12, 1943. (Cont'd)
1400(L)
apparently out of WeWak.
Sighted same motor sanpan distant 3 miles
bearing 250°T in same vicinity as morning.
He is probably patrolling this area between
Valif and Kairiru Island.
2000(L)
Surfaced and saw searchlights and A.A, fire
on beach at WeWak.
1200 (L)
Position Lat. 3-15 S., Long. 143-30 E.
Distance run 60 miles,, Fuel used 602 gal-
lons.

March 13, 1943.
2030 (L)
Submerged during daylight.
2040(L)
Sighted 4 aircraft flares to southward.
Surfaced just north of Kairiru Island,
sighted aircraft flares over WeWak, much
bombing and A.A. fires. Could hear bomb
explosions below decks.
2045(L)
Sighted tracers from plane fairly close.
SD Radar contact at 2 to 3 miles; dived.
Heard more explosions, sounded closer.
2100(L)
Radar contact 2 miles followed by one
explosion close. (Radar used submerged).
2130 (L)
Surfaced. Sighted destroyer in bright
moonlight bearing 186°T Lat. 3-15 S.,
Long. 143-39" E. distant 6000 yards, zero
angle on bow. Went to 18 Kts. on four
engines trailing from ahead course north.
2200(L)
Destroyer reversed course, GREENLING
reversed course and followed, but lost
contact shortly after. Received message
from CTF 42 of 5th Air Force bombing
which GREENLING had been in.
2347(L)
• Sighted burning ship to east Kairiru
Island and headed towards it for investi-
gation.
1200(L)
Position Lat. 3-16 S., Long. 143-41 E.
Distance run 78 miles., Fuel used 301
gallons.

March 14, 1943.
Submerged patrol during daylight.
0136(L)
Sighted two destroyers circling burning
ship distant 8000 yards.
0142(L)
Aircraft heard overhead and lookout.
sighted one. Dived continued approach.
0145(L) obtained periscope range 6000
yards in light from burning ship and on
next look destroyers not visible.
0215(L)
Burning ship appeared to capsize and sink
GREENLING surfaced but could not contact
destroyers with radar, sight or sound.
[HANDWRITTEN: 12]
-5-

— page 163 —
CONFIDENTIAL
                                                                U.S.S. GREENLING

March 14, 1943. (Cont'd)
          Between 0300(L) and 0630(L) sighted
          sporadic flares, searchlights and A.A.
          fire from direction of Wewak.
1220(L)   Sighted Motor Sampan bearing 121°T, east
          of Kairiru Island, distant 4 miles. Same
          vessel sighted on previous days. Patrol-
          ling between Kairiru and Vokeo Islands north
          of Wewak.
1200(L)   Position Lat. 3-13 S., Long. 143-32 E.
          Distance run 92 miles., Fuel used 760 gal-
          lons.

March 15, 1943.
          Shifted Task Force Designation to TF 72.
          Submerged patrol during daylight.
1415(L)   Picked up screws on sound gear, then sigh-
          ted destroyer bearing 280°T heading south
          for Wewak at about 24 Knts. range 6000
          yards. Could not close for attack.
1430(L)   Sighted smoke to be 3 MARUS with 2 escorts
          on northerly course. Lat. 3-15 S., Long.
          143-46 E. Commenced approach.
1613(L)   Fired three torpedoes at leading and largest
          MARU. All three missed.
1625 - 1905 (L) Received heavy depth charging.
2034(L)   Surfaced. All clear.
1200(L)   Position Lat. 3-14 S., Long. 143-45 E.
          Distance run 102 miles., Fuel used 348
          gallons.

March 16, 1943.
          Submerged patrol during daylight.
1140(L)   Sighted patrol vessel bearing 030°T course
          180°T distant 4000 yards. Avoided.
          Lat. 3-10 S., Long. 143-27 E.
1200(L)   Position Lat. 3-08 S., Long. 143-18E.
          Distance run 103 miles., Fuel used 458
          gallons.

March 17, 1943.
          Submerged patrol during daylight.
1200(L)   Position Lat. 2-50 S., Long. 142-36 E.
          Distance run 132 miles., Fuel used 291
          gallons.

March 18, 1943.
          Submerged patrol during daylight.
1200(L)   Position Lat. 2-34 S., Long. 142-16 E.
          Distance run 95 miles., Fuel used 405
          gallons.

[HANDWRITTEN: (13)]
                                                                -6-

— page 164 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. GREEMLING.

March 19, 1943.
1200(L) Submerged patrol during daylight.
Position Lat. 2-13 S., Long. 142-05 E.
Distance run 55 miles., Fuel used 314
gallons.

March 20, 1943.
1200(L) Submerged patrol during daylight.
Position Lat. 2-25 S., Long. 142-34 E.
Distance run 68 miles., Fuel used 406
gallons.

March 21, 1943.
1200(L) Submerged patrol during daylight.
Moving to equator on WeWak Pelew route
as ordered by dispatch.
Position Lat. 2-23 S., Long. 143-10 E.
Distance run 59 miles., Fuel used 321
gallons.

March 22, 1943.
1200 (L) Submerged patrol during daylight.
Position Lat. 1-26 S., Long. 142-02 E.
Distance run 125 miles., Fuel used 1262
gallons.

March 23, 1943.
1200(L) Submerged patrol during daylight.
Moving east on equator to cover Pelew
Rabaul route as ordered by dispatch.
Position Lat. 00-26 S., Long. 142-37 E.
Distance run 165 miles., Fuel used 1714
gallons.

March 24, 1943.
1200(L) Submerged patrol during daylight.
Position Lat. 00-14 S., Long. 144-27 E.
Distance run 127 miles., Fuel used 694
gallons.

March 25, 1943.
1750(L) Submerged patrol during daylight.
Sighted smoke bearing 165°T distant
about 10 miles. Came to normal approach
course.
1900(L) Sighted stack and mast of steamer on
course approximately 300°T.
2000(L) Surfaced and began surface approach at
17 Kts. At sunset steamer turned on
running lights, which later, at close
range were identified as hospital ship
markings.

-7-
[HANDWRITTEN: (14)]

— page 165 —
CONFIDENTIAL
March 25, 1943. (Cont'd)
1200(L)
March 26, 1943.
1200(L)
March 27, 1943.
1200 (L)
March 28, 1943.
0200(L)
U.S.S. GREENLING
Ship was similar to SUWA MARU, page 83,
Ο.Ν.Ι. 208 J. Lat. 00-18S., Long. 145-55E.
Apparently going direct from Rabaul to
Palau.
Position Lat. 00-16 S., Long. 146-13 Ε.
Distance run 122 miles., Fuel used 861 gal-
lons.

Submerged patrol during daylight.
Position Lat. 00-15 S., Long. 146-06 E.
Distance run 76 miles., Fuel used 306
gallons.

Submerged patrol during daylight.
Position Lat. Q0-20 N., Long. 146-30 E.
Distance run 115 miles., Fuel used 1731
gallons.

Submerged patrol during daylight.
Shifted to zone time (-)10 on orders of
CTF72.
1200(K)
Position Lat. 01-00 N., Long. 146-27 E.
Distance run 100 miles., Fuel used 317
gallons.
March 29, 1943.
Submerged patrol during daylight.
In position Lat. 2°-00 N., Long 146-58 E.,
as per orders of CTF 72.
1300(K)
1200(K)
March 30, 1943.
1515(K)
1900(K)
1200(K)
Sighted large formation of planes bearing
093°T distant 15 miles, course approxi-
mately north. Too far distant to identify.
Position Lat. 2-00 N., Long. 147-00 E.
Distance run 97 miles., Fuel used 532
gallons.

Surface patrol.
Sighted Submarine on surface Lat. 00-08-50 N.,
Long. 147-11-35 E. distant 4 miles, course
north Dived, but suspected it of being
one of our boats. He dived also, no contact
by sound or periscope gained.
Surfaced.
Position Lat. 1°-02 N., Long. 147-02 E.
Distance run 115 miles., Fuel used 1150
gallons.

-8-