U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS-335) — war patrol report SS-335_DENTUDA.pdf

— page 1 —
START OF REEL [HANDWRITTEN: #5]
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: F-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR 127-78]

1.0
[small numbers: 45, 50, 56, 63, 71, 80, 90, 100]
| 2.8 | 2.5 |
| 3.2 | 2.2 |
| 3.6 | 2.0 |
1.1
| 1.8 |
1.25 | 1.4 | 1.6 |

OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: DerBose]

DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 7/19/78]

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[Image of Department of Defense Seal]
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET - START AND END
NDW-NPPSO-5210/1 (6-78)

— page 2 —
[HANDWRITTEN: DENTUDA (SS-335)
WWII PATROL FILE
ALL MATERIAL ON THIS REEL IS DECLASSIFIED
FOR DECK LOG DECEMBER 1944 - JUNE 1945
CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES WHICH HAS CUSTODY.

J.A. KOONTZ]

— page 3 —
Dentuda

A large shark found in temperate and subtropical
waters.

(SS-335; dp. 1,526; l. 311'9"; b. 27'3"; dr. 15'3";
s. 20.2 k.; cpl. 66; a. 1 5", 10 21" tt.; cl. Gato)

SS-335, originally named Capidoli, was renamed
Dentuda on 24 September 1942, launched 10 September
1944 by Electric Boat Co., Groton, Conn.; sponsored by
Mrs. T. W. Hogan, wife of Commander Hogan; and
commissioned 30 December 1944, Commander J. S. Mc-
Cain, Jr., in command.

Dentuda's shakedown was extended by two months
of experimental duty for the Submarine Force, Atlantic
Fleet. She sailed 5 April 1945 for the Pacific, arriving
at Pearl Harbor 10 May. From 29 May to 29 July
she conducted her first war patrol in the East China
Sea and the Taiwan Straits, damaging a large freighter,
and sinking two patrol craft. Dentuda remained at
Pearl Harbor until 3 January 1946 when she sailed for
the west coast. She arrived at San Francisco 5 days
later.

Assigned to JTF 1 as a test vessel for Operation
"Crossroads," Dentuda returned to Pearl Harbor 14
February 1946, and on 22 May sailed for Bikini Atoll.
She underwent both atomic weapons tests with her
crew safely away from their submarine, and returned
to Pearl Harbor 5 September. On 7 October she got
underway for Mare Island Naval Shipyard, arriving 14
October. She was decommissioned 11 December 1946 and
stationed in the 12th Naval District for the training of
members of the Naval Reserve.

Dentuda's single war patrol was designated as "suc-
cessful"; and she received one battle star for her con-
tribution to the success of the Okinawa operation.

— page 4 —
Dictionary of

American Naval
Fighting Ships

VOLUME II · 1963

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

— page 5 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335)

SS335/A9
Serial 04
[HANDWRITTEN: CLASSIFICATION THIS CORRESPONDENCE]
[HANDWRITTEN: CHANGED TO SECRET]
[HANDWRITTEN: F-4894]
[HANDWRITTEN: AUTHORITY COMINCH. CONF. MEMO. F.F.VAIL-S]
[HANDWRITTEN: SER. 0346 OF 29 JAN. 1944]
[HANDWRITTEN: 10 SEPT. 1945]
CONFIDENTIAL
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
29 July 1945.

From: The Commanding Officer U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335).
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division THREE FORTY TWO.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY FOUR.
(3) The Commander Submarines, PACIFIC FLEET.
(4) The Commander in Chief, PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335), Report of War Patrol Number ONE.

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

1. Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol of this vessel
conducted in the area of FORMOSA STRAITS during the period 29 May 1945
to 29 July 1945, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: J. S. Mc CAIN, Jr.]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED PER OPRT. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP-09C DATE 5/25/72]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

— page 6 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

A. PROLOGUE.

    The ship was built by the Electric Boat Company, Groton, Con-
    necticut, keel laid 18 November 1943, launched 10 September 1944,
    delivered and commissioned 30 December 1944 at the U.S. Submarine Base,
    New London, Connecticut. Commander J.S. MC CAIN, Jr., assumed command.

    The DENTUDA's shakedown and training period was interrupted by a
    special availability to ComSubSLant for approximately 60 days for in-
    stallation and tests of various experimental projects under development
    during the period February - March, 1945.

    Departed New London for Key West, Fla. 5 April 1945 Arrived 10 April
    Departed Key West for Balboa, C.Z. 12 April 1945 Arrived 16 April
    Departed Balboa for Pearl Harbor 25 April 1945 Arrived 10 May
    Departed Pearl Harbor for Saipan on FIRST WAR PATROL 29 May 1945.

    The system of training instituted and developed by Captain Johns
    at Balboa is an outstanding innovation and is well worth study with a
    view to peace time application. At no period during the time that I
    have had command has the training been so intensive or thorough. In
    addition, the co-operation of the base repair force was particularly
    noteworthy and added much to our brief stay in Panama.

B. NARRATIVE.

    | Officers on Board | Patrols Incl. DENTUDA's First | Duty | Battle Station |
    |---|---|---|---|
    | Commander J.S. MC CAIN, Jr. | 7 | Commanding Officer | AO |
    | Lieutenant J.I. SCHOCKEN | 11 | Exec., Nav. | AAO |
    | Lieutenant L.M. DUNLAP | 1 | Eng. | ContFlot |
    | Lieutenant D.P. WHITE | 9 | Torp. & Gun. | TDC |
    | Lieutenant(jg) C.E. FROST | 11 | Asst. Eng. | DivOff |
    | Lieutenant(jg) J.H. CHADWICK, Jr. | 1 | Comsy. | Asst TDC |
    | Lieutenant(jg) C.P. HOOVER | 6 | 1st Lieut. | NavFlot |
    | Ensign R.C. BRYAN | 1 | Comm. | ContFlot |
    | Ensign M.E. MC LAIN | 2 | Asst. 1st Lieut. | AsstContFlot |

    | Chief Petty Officers | Rate | Patrols Incl. DENTUDA's First |
    |---|---|---|
    | FREANER, Eugene (n) | CTM(PA) | 4 |
    | MARTELL, William C. | CTM(AA)(T) | 9 |
    | WUNDERLICH, Frank H. | CQM(T) | 4 |
    | COLLAMORE, Paul R. | CRM(T) | 6 |
    | FISHER, William P. | CMOMM(PA) | 4 |
    | FENAES, Alfred L. | CMOMM(PA) | 5 |
    | YANKE, Allen R. | CMOMM(T) | 1 |

— page 7 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA - (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

Chief Petty Officers | Rate | Patrols Incl.
                     |      | DENTUDA's First
|------|
WARNER, Millard W.   | CEM(T) | 8
MASON, Dan A.        | CEM(A)(T) | 6
STOVER, Albert D.    | CPhM(A)(T) | 5
HEWITT, Charles J.   | CCS(A)(T) | 10

29 May
1325 (V-W) Departed PEARL HARBOR for SAIPAN in accordance with Comsub-
           pacdcomd OpOrder 104-445. Conducted daily training exercises
           including quick dives, battle surfaces, and battle problems,
           submerged and surfaced.

10 June
1003 (K) Moored alongside U.S.S. ORION. Fueled to capacity.

11 June
1430 (K) Underway for patrol area in accordance with Comsubpacdcomd
           OpOrder 125-45 (western part of Eleven Able, Eleven Baker,
           and Chophouse).
           En route to area conducted routine training. Numerous plane
           contacts were made, all friendly unless otherwise indicated.

15 June
1200 (I) Posit: Lat. 29°00' N
                  Long. 136°49' E
2331 (I) Sighted running lights of unidentified plane on course north.
           No evasive action taken.

17 June
0000 (I) Commenced transit of straits on course 270°T between SUWONESE

— page 8 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA. (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

0610 (I) APR intercepted air borne radar (157 mcs) on the port
side which rapidly increased to saturation. This plane ap-
parently moved down the port side, crossed the stern, and
proceeded up the starboard side. For a greater part of
this time the APR was at saturation. No action was taken to
evade and the plane was not sighted visually.

0640 (I) Last of plane radar.

1200 (I) Posit: Lat. 30°17' N
Long. 128°54' E

18 June

0045 (I) Passed BANJO GUNTO abeam to port, distance 16 miles, steering
by Arma Course Clock on base course 270°T.

FIRST GUN ATTACK - 31°55' N
126°48' E

0936 (I) ST Radar surface sweep and lookouts simultaneously sighted two
Japanese YPC's similar to picture P-138, 208J, Supp 2, bearing
183°T, range 7,600, visibility 8,000 yards. One of 200 tons
displacement, was about 50 tons heavier than the second.

0940 (I) Turned away to look over the situation.

0945 (I) Decided to attack on the surface with 5"/25 and .37mm. All
ahead flank, closing to attack. These YPC's maneuvered in
line of bearing, with flag hoists flying on both vessels.

Sighted floating mine - no time to stop and sink it.

1010 (I) YPC's dropped first of four or five depth charges - no other
plausible explanation for underwater explosions that sounded
like depth charges at about 4,000 yards.

YPC's opened fire with .50 cal. machine gun and something,
possibly a 40mm.

1016 (I) Opened fire - range 3,200 yards, targets zigging radically,
machine gun bullets splashing on port and starboard sides.

1028 (I) 5"/25 refused to return to battery with about 50 rounds ex-
pended. Visible damage, two hits in one target, with target
smoking badly. Retired to repair gun.

- 3 -

— page 9 —
FIRS? WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CON'D).

1040 (I) Gun returned to battery, started in again; after 37mm out of
             commission.

1105 (I) Opened fire again - range 4,200 yards. One solid hit on other
             target, large column of black smoke belched up!

1114 (I) Broke off attack, pointer and trainer could not see target
             through telescopes, visibility about 5,000 yards and closing
             away. Only 25 rounds of 5"/25 left in magazines.
             Total ammunition expended: 70 rounds 5", 280 rounds .37mm.
             Total damage: Both smoking from direct hits, unknown damage
             from many near misses.

1200 (I) Posit: Lat. 31°50' N
                      Long. 126°30' E

1301 (I) ST radar interference. Closed on approximate bearing and at

1337 (I) Sighted U.S.S. HADDO (Lat. 31°40' N, Long. 126°15' E).

1352 (I) After exchange of information with HADDO, came to course
             260°T, speed 14 knots.

1907 (I) Made contact and closed U.S.S. MUSK LUNGE. After unsuccess-
             ful attempt to transfer 5" ammunition, exchanged information
             and came to course 260°T.

2130 (I) Exchanged recognition calls and established identity over
             VHF with two PBM's (Lat. 30°58' N, Long. 125°32' E).

19 June

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 29°04' N
                      Long. 123°37' E

1410 (H) Entered area and changed course to 210°T. From this point
             until departure from area, many junks were sighted.

20 June

0945 (H) Arrived on lifeguard station (Lat. 25°10' N, Long. 120°45' E).

1055 (H) Departed lifeguard station and took course for HAITAN ISLAND.

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°42' N
                      Long. 120°43' E
             Patrolled east coast of island during night.

- 4 -

— page 10 —
FIRST WLR
DENTUDA (S3335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

21 June
0800 (H) Arrived lifeguard station.
0900 (H) Departed for TUNG YUNG ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°30' N
                  Long. 120°30' E

22 June
0000 (H) Departed TUNG YUNG ISLAND to patrol off HAITAN ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°40' N
                  Long. 119°55' E
2000 (H) Patrolled off twenty fathom curve.

23 June
0500 (H) Took course for TUNG YUNG ISLAND.
1200 (H) Off of TUNG YUNG ISLAND.
Posit: Lat. 26°10' N
                  Long.120°30' E

24 June
0000 (H) Patrolled off of HAITAN ISLAND.
0540 (H) Submerged and proceeded on course 270°T for close look at
HAITAN ISLAND and STRAITS.
Posit: Lat. 25°25' N
                  Long. 119°58' E
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°20' N
                  Long. 119°40' E
1407 (H) Surfaced and proceeded on course 020°T to investigate entrance
to SAMS INLET on surface at night.
2200 (H) Departed for next day's lifeguard station.

25 June
0500 (H) Arrived on station.

- 5 -

— page 11 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

1020 (H) Departed on course north to patrol across center of area.

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°49' N
                 Long. 120°26' E

2330 (H) Commenced high speed sweep toward TUNG YUNG ISLAND.

26 June

0450 (H) Submerged. Patrolled on course 180°T.

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°35' N
                 Long. 120°26' E

1310 (H) Reversed course to 340°T.

1725 (H) While at 90 feet and preparing for periscope observation at
                 58 feet, JP picked up fast screws bearing 310°T. Immediately
                 went to battle stations and started up.

1727 (H) Periscope revealed I-Class submarine on course 170°T. Range
                 was 2,000 yards and estimated speed 16 knots. Target
                 had crossed our bow and was well on port hand, so swung
                 right to course 019°T to bring stern tubes to bear.

1729-30(H) Took final and second observation by ST periscope. Enemy
                 submarine was now on course 185°T. Run of after torpedoes
                 was 3,500 yards on a track of 160° port. Using 1/2° spread,
                 commenced firing at

1730 (H) Using eight second firing interval, fired four Mk-18 torpedoes,
                 all missed.

1732 (H) Target was not aware of firing so continued tracking. Plot
                 showed enemy submarine to be steering a base course of 210°T
                 zigzaging at intervals of about three minutes. Some zigzags
                 were as much as 40 degrees to the right and left of base
                 course. At

1813 (H) Surfaced and regained sight contact through high periscope at
                 a range of 25,000 yards.

1814 (H) Night was falling, visibility was closing due to heavy clouds
                 and thunderstorms coming in from south east. Decided to close
                 to ST radar range and complete end around.

2030 (H) ST radar, contrary to expectations, did not pick up target
                 until range was 9,900 yards. Immediately following this con-
                 tact, the APR screen indicated radar interference of 148
                 from the target.

- 6 -

— page 12 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA. (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

26 June
2031 (H) Immediately commenced opening to westward with frequent indi-
                 cations of his radar. ST followed the target out to 14,000
                 yards. Continued on out to 35,000 yards.

2310 (H) While swinging ship to obtain bearing on Jap radar, the
                 target was sighted at 9,800 yards in path of moon board.
                 115°T.

2312 (H) Changed course to 115°T and dived. Sound bearings for a short
                 period showed a decrease in range and then he apparently came
                 to an easterly course and at

2330 (H) Passed out of sound range.

2340 (H) Surfaced and commenced search at high speed on 235°T.

27 June
0127 (H) Secured and changed course to 000°T. We were 20 miles inside
                 blind bombing zone, no contact of any sort had been made, and
                 there were no APR indications since prior to the dive at 2312.
                 In retrospection, I feel sure that in this case, the hunter,
                 U.S.S. DENTUDA, had become the hunted as of 1814, and he was
                 attempting an end around run of his own.

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°26' N
                          Long. 119°56' E
                 Steering north, patrolling on surface.

28 June
0000 (H) Course 270°, moving towards SAMSA INLET for daylight sub-
                 merged patrol.

0450 (H) Submerged and stood in to inlet.

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 26°27' N
                          Long. 120°00' E

1739 (H) Surfaced.

1810 (H) Stopped large two-masted junk. Aboard were about 30 Chinese,
                 male and female of all ages.

2125 (H) Departed for lifeguard station.

- 7 -

— page 13 —
FI WAR PATROL
DENTUDA. (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

29 June
0845 (H) On lifeguard station.
1025 (H) Departed station, stood north preparatory to another high
          speed sweep across area.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°13' N
          Long. 120°53' E
2330 (H) Commenced sweep towards TUNG YUNG ISLAND.

30 June
0300 (H) Took easterly course for lifeguard station.
0800 (H) Arrived on station.
1000 (H) Headed west for SAMSA INLET and investigation of plane report
          of DE anchored west of MATSU ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°42' N
          Long. 121°00' E

1 July
0220 (H) Battle stations gun action. Entered SAMSA INLET. Night was
          bright moonlight with excellent visibility. DE had apparently
          departed for parts unknown, so at
0300 (H) Reversed course and at
0409 (H) Dived across entrance to SAMSA INLET and patrolled submerged
          in hopes of reappearance of DE.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 26°03' N
          Long. 120°03' E
1739 (H) Surfaced and proceeded north to patrol in vicinity of SEVEN
          STARS.

2 July
0000 (H) Standing south for patrol off HAITAN ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 26°03' N
          Long. 120°28' E

- 8 -

— page 14 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

3 July
0000 (H) All hands to battle stations gun action and proceeded through
southern entrance of HAITAN STRAITS. Patrolled STRAITS as
far north as PASS ISLAND, and at
0300 (H) Cleared area.
0436 (H) Submerged and ran between TURNABOUT ISLAND and HAITAN ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°30' N
Long. 119°56' E
1206 (H) Surfaced and proceeded north to SAMSA INLET.

4 July
0036 (H) Gun stations and proceeded down coast towards MATSU ISLAND
anchorage.
0215 (H) Closed western coast of MATSU ISLAND when at
0230 (H) Sighted three-island freighter anchored close into beach at
Lat. 26°09.7'N, Long. 119°54.7'E. There was a dim white light
amidships and wisps of white smoke from stack. Made ready
the stern tubes and reversed course, and at
0235 (H) Fired sighting-in shot Mk-18 from No. 7 tube which missed
astern.
0236 (H) Fired tubes 8 and 9, time between firing eight seconds. Both
of these were observed to hit, one forward of the center island
and one aft. There was considerable smoke with white
flashes immediately following both explosions.
0237 (H) All ahead flank speed, clearing scene of action. Lights ap-
peared on beach in back of freighter and also on adjoining
island to north.
0436 (H) Submerged and took course south of TUNG YUNG ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 26°23' N
Long. 120°03' E
1328 (H) Surfaced. Stood south.

- 9 -

— page 15 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA. (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

5 July
0000 (H) Standing south towards FORMOSA STRAITS.
0220 (H) Closed and examined large junk.
0955 (H) Lifeguard station.
1035 (H) Left station and took westerly course towards OCKSEU ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°08' N
                 Long. 120°48' E
2200 (H) Battle stations gun action. Entered PORT MATHESON, no contacts.

6 July
0400 (H) Passed OCKSEU ISLAND abeam to starboard.
1025 (H) On station, lifeguard duty.
1130 (H) Departed to patrol northern section of area.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°10' N
                 Long. 120°34' E
1605 (H) Dived for aircraft (ZEKE) sighted pulling out of dive overhead.

7 July
0100 (H) Course 180°T for lifeguard station.
1125 (H) Arrived lifeguard station.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°20' N
                 Long. 120°35' E
1830 (H) Departed station for night surface patrol north and east of
                 TUNG YUNG ISLAND.

8 July
0030 (H) Battle stations gun action.
0100 (H) Standing west, INCOG ISLANDS abeam to port.
0300 (H) Changed course to 137°T, passed STRAITSTACK ISLAND abeam to port.
                 Proceeded to lifeguard station for that day.

- 10 -

— page 16 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

8 July
1055 (H) On lifeguard station.
1130 (H) Departed station for vicinity of SEVEN STARS.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°35' N
                 Long. 121°02' E

9 July
0000 (H) Course 270°T to pass just south of SEVEN STARS.
0100 (H) Changed course to 170°T for lifeguard station.
1000 (H) On station.
1037 (H) Departed station for night surface patrol in vicinity of
                 WHITE DOG ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 26°14' N
                 Long. 120°55' E
2200 (H) Battle stations gun action. Stood in to look over anchorages,
                 etc.

10 July
0200 (H) Clearing WHITE DOG ISLAND and NORTON ROCK.
0230 (H) Proceeding to SEVEN STARS.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°25' N
                 Long. 120°38' E
2148 (H) Went to battle stations gun action and stood in to NANKWA
                 HARBOR.

11 July
0000 (H) Stood south to explore northern coast of FU YAN ISLAND.
0230 (H) Crossed twenty fathom curve and took course to lifeguard
                 station.
0911 (H) On station.

- 11 -

— page 17 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

11 July
1025 (H) Departed station for another night surface run into MATSU
           ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°28' N
                  Long. 120°36' E
2230 (H) Off MSA INLET, course 180°T. Battle stations gun action.

12 July
0000 (H) Entered PIRIE BAY, no contacts.
0135 (H) While exploring western side of MATSU ISLAND in vicinity of
           contact of 4 July, sighted freighter to north and close to
           the beach. Later events indicate that this was same as pre-
           vious target only beached. Night was dark so decided to
           fire at this one in hopes that it might be a new target, and
           at
0159 (H) After careful adjustment of position, fired No. 1 tube MK-14
           torpedo in low power, range 1,050 yards. Torpedo missed
           astern.
0200-30(H) Fired from tube No. 2. This torpedo hit, with considerable
           smoke and flame.
0201-25(H) Fired No. 4 tube. This also hit, creating considerable smoke
           and white flashes.
0204 (H) Closed target and examined with searchlight. This confirmed
           my suspicions that we had fired at the 4 July target; ad
           interim, it had been beached.
0210 (H) Cleared the area and proceeded to PORT MATHESON and MEICHOW
           BAY for a look.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°22' N
                  Long. 120°12' E

13 July
0000 (H) While at battle stations gun action, once more entered PORT
           MATHESON. No contacts, so at
0045 (H) Proceeded north and entered MEICHOW BAY. Results negative.

- 12 -

— page 18 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

0237 (H) Secured from battle stations and headed for TURNABOUT ISLAND
for projected passage of NORTH HAITAN STRAITS.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°32' N
Long. 120°05' E
2225 (H) Battle stations gun action entering HAITAN STRAITS.
14 July
0001 (H) North of PASS ISLAND visibility closed in to such an extent that
discretion, a dubious position, and two fathoms of water, shouted
"Get the hell out of here."
0030 (H) Secured from battle stations. Patrolled off TUNGSHA ISLAND.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 26°05' N
Long. 120°32' E
2300 (H) Commenced high speed sweep of area.
15 July
0000 (H) Continuing above sweep.
0505 (H) Submerged and entered blind bombing zone.
1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 24°30' N
Long. 120°00' E
1804 (H) Surfaced. Headed for HAITAN STRAITS with intention of ex-
ploring south straits and area behind YIT group of islands.
2227 (H) Battle stations gun action. Entered HAITAN STRAITS and
turned south. SOL commenced steering various courses
at various speeds investigating possibilities of mine field.
16 July
0010 (H) Secured sound gear and stood west towards HINGHWA SOUND.
0307 (H) Secured from battle stations.
0330 (H) Rounded southernmost of YIT group and headed for open sea
(FORMOSA STRAITS).

- 13 -

— page 19 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA, (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°52' N
                  Long. 120°11' E
                  Patrolling on surface to east of WHITE DOG ISLANDS.

17 July

0000 (H) Decided to take one last look at western side of MATSU,
                  and then on surface in daylight.

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°53' N
                  Long. 120°25' E

1400 (H) Approaching pass between MATSU and island north of MATSU.

1600 (H) Battle stations gun action. Good look into FIRE BAY.

1611 (H) Sighted mast and stack of sunken tug projecting above sur-
                  face (Lat. 26°10.5' N, Long. 119°54.5' E).

1615 (H) Sighted freighter resting on bottom with upperworks above
                  water. This was a three island AK, mast-funnel-mast, of
                  3,000 to 4,000 ton displacement. It was a total wreck and
                  unrecognizable amidships. The whole center island
                  was demolished.

1630 (H) Put over boarding party consisting of Lt(jg) C.E. FROST, USN;
                  Lt(jg) J.H. CHADWICK, USN; and photographer H.K. ROTH, MoMM2c.

1645 (H) Boarding party returned to submarine. Target was so broken
                  up that it was nearly impossible to get from forward aft.
                  Paint where it had not been scorched or burnt was in good
                  shape. Three large holes, two to starboard and one to port,
                  were plainly visible.

1701 (H) Stood south towards northern entrance to KEELUN STRAITS.

1815 (H) Rounded NORTON ROCK and cleared shallow water.

18 July

0000 (H) Patrolling FORMOSA STRAITS.

0705 (H) On station.

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 25°26' N
                  Long. 121°52' E

- 14 -

— page 20 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D).

1335 (H) Sighted periscope ahead 500 yards. Evaded and cleared area.
           Set up retiring search curve to north and at

1930 (H) Commenced retiring search at high speed.

19 July

0130 (H) Changed course to 230°T, speed 10 knots, no contact with Nip
           sub. Patrolled on surface.

1200 (H) Posit: Lat. 27°00' N
                  Long. 122°00' E

1400 (H) Rendezvous with ARGONAUT. Sent over copy of track chart and
           all pertinent information. Took course to DANJO GUNTO.

20 July

1200 (H) Heading for DANJO GUNTO.
Posit: Lat. 30°50' N
        Long. 125°38' E

2255 (H) Passed DANJO GUNTO abeam to starboard, distance 20 miles.

21 July

0135 (H) Course 135°T, heading for straits between SUWONESE and
           AKUSEKI ISLANDS.

1731 (I) In Lat. 29°18.3' N, Long. 129°37' E destroyed floating mine.

1858 (I) Sighted U.S.S. POMFRET. Took course 060°T, speed 12 knots,
           for lifeguard station.

22 July

1200 (I) Underway to lifeguard station.
Posit: Lat. 31°05' N
        Long. 132°25' E

1600 (I) On station.

23 July

0444 (I) Course 223°T returning to Guam.

- 15 -

— page 21 —
FL.T WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

C. WEATHER.

The weather in the area just north of FORMOSA STRAITS was much
better than anticipated during the S.W. Monsoon. Calm seas prevailed
throughout, visibility excellent to fair, and very little rain. One
typhoon warning was received but no ign of the typhoon ever material-
ized.

D. TIDAL INFORMATION.

The area around HAITAN STRAIT and SAMSA INLET is characterized
by about 20 foot tides and the tidal current is quite pronounced when
working in close to the beach. However, these currents follow the
chart and coast pilot very closely and can be predicted with some de-
gree of accuracy.

The surface current in FORMOSA STRAITS set 030°T and about 1
knot under the influence of the S.W. Monsoon.

E. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS.

No navigational lights were sighted this patrol. The following
lights were passed within their area of visibility and not observed.
It is assumed they are extinguished or greatly reduced in visibility.

GAJA SHIMA (Passed during daylight on return from area and
lighthouse observed to be still standing)

DANJO GUNTO
O SHIMA
OSE SAKI

In the patrol area all navigational lights were passed close
aboard by day and night for investigation. All lights listed below
were definitely extinguished. TURNABOUT ISLAND is definitely de-
stroyed (pictures taken).

TURNABOUT ISLAND (Destroyed)
TUNG KUEN (Extinguished; buildings look in good condition)
SPIDER ISLAND (Extinguished)
TUNG YUNG (Extinguished; buildings look in good condition)
LAMOCK ISLAND (Extinguished)
OULAN ISLAND (Extinguished; buildings look in good condition)

- 16 -

— page 22 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

F. SHIP CONTACTS.

| No. | Time Date | Lat. Long. | Type | Est. Initial Range | Course Speed | How Contacted | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | June 181016 | 32-06 N 126-54 E | XPC 250 Ton | 7600 | 045° 10 | Surface ST Radar & Sight | First Gun Attack |
| 2 | 181016 | 32-01 N 126-54 E | XPC 250 Ton | 7600 | 045° 10 | ST Radar & Sight | First Gun Attack |
| 3 | 261725 | 25-45 N 120-32 E | SS I-Class 1500 Ton | 4000 | 175° 16 | Sound, 30 fathoms, own depth 90 ft, speed 3, rel br 310°, JK-JP sound 17 kcs. | First Torpedo Attack |
| 4 | July 040155 | 26-10 N 119-55 E | MFM MARU 3000 Ton | 1000 | At Anchor | Sight | Second Torpedo Attack |
| 5 | 120141 | 26-10 N 119-55 E | MFM MARU 3000 Ton | 1000 | At Anchor | Sight | Third Torpedo Attack. Believed Same Ship. |
| 6 | 181050 | 25-25 N 121-08 E | SS Unknown | 500 | Unknown | Sight | Periscope Sighted |

( INNUMERABLE JUNKS SIGHTED )

G. AIRCRAFT.
There were 7 aircraft contacts, aside from lifeguard duties, shows
that the area was considerably better patrolled by U.S. patrol bombers
than by aircraft. Contacts averaged only one a day with the ratio of
two of ours to one Nip. No new types or tactics were observed.

- 17 -

— page 23 —
FIR WAR PATROL
                                                              DENTUDA (SS335)

H. ATTACK DATA.

U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335)                  TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1     PATROL NO. 1
TIME 1730 (H) DATE 26 JUNE 1945 LAT. 25°53' N LONG. 120°22' E

                                TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Single submarine on surface. Contact made by sound while running at 90 feet.
Visibility very good. Target was I-168 Class submarine. All torpedoes missed.

Target Draft 15 feet Course 185 Speed 16 Range 1550 (At firing)

                                OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 3.5 Course 019 Depth 50 feet Angle 1/2° Rise(At firing)

                                FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack - Submerged approach using ST periscope. Just previous to final
             set-up in TDC, target zigged right presenting a large and un-
             favorable track angle.

             #7       #8       #9       #10
Tubes Fired  -        -        -        -
Track Angle  160      160      160      160
Gyro Angle   9R       6R       5R       4R
Depth Set    10       10       10       10
Power        -        -        -        -
Hit or Miss  Miss     Miss     Miss     Miss
Erratic (Yes or No) No       No       No       No
Mark Torpedo 18-2     18-2     18-2     18-2
Serial No.   99722    99852    100500   99820
Mark Exploder 8-7      8-7      8-7      8-7
Serial No.   16370    11331    11638    16283
Actuation Set -        -        -        -
Actuation Actual -        -        -        -
Mark Warhead 18-2     18-2     18-2     18-2
Serial No.   6520     6499     6800     6485
Explosive    Torpex   Torpex   Torpex   Torpex
Firing Interval 8 seconds
Type Spread 1/2° Divergent, Fwd.-Aft.
Sea Conditions One (1)
Overhaul Activity PEARL HARBOR, T.H.

                                   - 18 -

— page 24 —
FIRST W R PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

H. ATTACK DATA (CONT'D).

U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL NO. 1
TIME 0235 (H) DATE 4 JULY 1945 LAT. 26°06' N LONG. 119°45' E
MATSU ISLAND ANCHORAGE

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Single ship, anchored in MATSU ISLAND anchorage. Visibility fair with scattered
clouds covering moon frequently. Ship was hard to see as it was anchored close
to the beach in cover of high hills. Vessel attacked was a 3000-4000 ton freighter.
Three torpedoes were fired, last two seen to hit.

Target Draft 8-10 feet Course Anchored Speed 0 Range 1100 (At firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 2.5 Course 295 Depth Surface Angle 1/2° Dive (At firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack - Surface attack firing stern tubes at ship anchored in MATSU ISLAND
anchorage. First torpedo was a sighting-in shot to determine
current. (fired in four(4) fathoms of water, necessitating stern
shot as we had Mk-18 torpedoes aft and Mk-14 torpedoes forward).
Used aft TBT bearings and TDC.

Tubes Fired                               #7        #8        #9
Track Angle                               125P      125P      125P
Gyro Angle                                6R        5R        6R
Depth Set                                 3         3         5
Power                                     -         -         -
Hit or Miss                               Miss (Hit Hit       Hit
                                          Beach)
Erratic (Yes or No)                       No        No        No
Mark Torpedo                              18-2      18-2      18-2
Serial No.                                99689     100598    99786
Mark Exploder                             8-7       8-7       8-7
Serial No.                                16492     16505     15731
Actuation Set                             -         -         -
Actuation Actual                          -         -         -
Mark Warhead                              18-2      18-2      18-2
Serial No.                                6726      5834      6566
Explosive                                 Torpex    Torpex    Torpex
Firing Interval                           1 1/2 minutes between 1 and 2, 10 seconds between 2 and 3
Type Spread                               TBT
Sea Conditions                            Zero
Overhaul Activity                         PEARL HARBOR, T.H.

- 19 -

— page 25 —
FII WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

H. ATTACK DATA (CONT'D).

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 PATROL NO. 1
U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335)
TIME 0159 (H) DATE 12 JULY 1945 LAT. 26°06' N LONG. 119°45' E
MATSU ISLAND ANCHORAGE

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Same vessel damaged in Attack No. 2. Apparently aground in a different location
than when previously attacked. Fired three torpedoes for two hits.

Target Draft Aground Course - Speed 0 Range 1100 (At firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 0 Course 044 Depth Surface Angle 0 (At firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack - Surface night attack ongrounded freighter in MATSU ISLAND ANCHORAGE.
Fired first torpedo as a sighting-in shot to determine current.
Fired next two torpedoes using TBT off-set, for two hits, using
Mk14-3A's in low power as depth of water was four (4)
fathoms.

| | #1 | #2 | #4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes Fired | 1208 | 1208 | 1208 |
| Track Angle | 359½ | 356 | 355 |
| Gyro Angle | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Depth Set | Low | Low | Low |
| Power | Miss | Hit | Hit |
| Hit or Miss | Yes | No | No |
| *Erratic (Yes or No) | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A |
| Mark Torpedo | 64866 | 64952 | 64646 |
| Serial No. | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 |
| Mark Exploder | 19376 | 13981 | 33581 |
| Serial No. | - | - | - |
| Actuation Set | - | - | - |
| Actuation Actual | 16-4 | 16-4 | 16-4 |
| Mark Warhead | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex |
| Explosive | One (1) minute | | |
| Firing Interval | TBT | | |
| Type Spread | Zero | | |
| Sea Conditions | PEARL HARBOR, T.H. | | |
| Overhaul Activity | | | |

*This torpedo was seen to run up on the beach and did not explode. These tor-
pedoes were fired in four fathoms of water and the torpedo on its initial dive
probably hit the bottom, fouling up the impeller so that the exploder did not
arm.

- 20 -

— page 26 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

H. ATTACK DATA (CONT'D).

U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335) GUN ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 1
TIME 1016 (I) DATE 18 JUNE 1945 LAT. 31°55' N LONG. 126°48' E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Damaged Two XPC's similar to picture P-138, 208J, Supp. 2. One approxi-
mately 200 tons displacement, the second 150 tons.

DETAILS OF ACTION

Targets were in formation, line of bearing, and used flag hoists for
maneuvering purposes. U.S.S. DENTUDA closed at full speed, approaching from the
targets' starboard quarter, with 5" gun and 37mm. guns manned, .50 cal. gun
crews standing by below; sightsetter,spotter, and TDC operator manning the
JP phone circuit. SJ radar was used for tracking. An officer manned #1
periscope for bearing and angle on the bow. Visibility about 10,000 yards
with a slight mist.

At a range of 4,000 yards, targets opened fire with .50 cal. machine
guns and one gun slightly larger, possibly a 40mm. Fire was accurate but
ineffective. At a range of 3,800 yards, DENTUDA changed
course slightly to the right to unmask the 5" gun and opened fire with the 5"
gun and 37mm's. Spots were applied to the TDC generated range directly so
that TDC continuously generated gun firing range. In the first phase, targets
zigzagged radically, maintaining formation at a speed of 11 knots. Two
5" hits were obtained on the larger target, which was observed to smoke heavily,
after expending about 30 rounds of 5" HC with Mk-29 point detonating nose fuses,
but inaccurate although a few hits on both targets were
observed. Ceased fire with 37mm's after expending 250 rounds high explosive
with tracer. Target range continued to open, shifted point of aim to the
second target and expended 20 more rounds of 5", rapid fire. At this time,
5" failed to return to battery, so broke off engagement and withdrew out of
gun range.

5" gun returned to battery after a period of about 10 minutes, re-
versed course to again engage targets. After 37mm out of commission with
bent extractor which failed to extract empty cartridge. At a range of 4,200
yards, commenced firing rapid fire with the 5" gun at the smaller target. One
direct hit was obtained and formation broken temporarily with target smoking
badly. After firing 20 more rounds of 5", secured due to excessive ammunition
expenditure and poor visibility which had closed and now obscured targets.

Total rounds fired: 70 rounds 5" 25 cal. HC with Mk-29 nose fuses;
250 rounds 37mm. HE. Results were not as good as should be expected due to
too rapid a rate of fire, and error in spotting which failed to cross the
target. Radical zigzagging and poor visibility detracted somewhat.

- 21 -

— page 27 —
F1.ST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

I. MINES.
Very few mines were sighted; one during the gun fight with the
XPC's, one in the extreme northern part of the area when entering, and
one south of AKUSEKI ISLAND in the NANSEI SHOTO. None were encountered
in the area patrolled, which was a pleasant and completely unexpected
surprise.

J. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.
None.

K. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

HULL AND MACHINERY

Periscopes - No. 2 periscope leaked oil around the guides; loosened
guides at yoke and realigned them which stopped the leak.

No. 1 periscope leaked excessive oil by pistons while
resting in a lowered position. Consequently, when scope was put in a
raised position, the over-flow tank would not hold that amount of oil.
The oil was removed from the bottom of the scope and scope was lowered
to a resting position on top of well. Hydraulic supply was cut off and
excessive oil drained down. Removed port piston with ease, no damage noted.
While attempting to remove starboard unit, the piston stuck in cylinder
above the hull; removed with force. A large raised portion was noted on
forward edge of starboard cylinder just above the hull. Attempted to hone
down raised portion; operation partially unsuccessful. Renewed neoprene
ring and stoned rough spots on piston and reinstalled. After testing,
normal leakage was noted. The scope was not lowered to the limit because
of the possibility of casualty; i.e., damaging neoprene ring and losing ex-
cessive amount of hydraulic oil occurring again.

It is desired that (1) two neoprene rings be installed in each guide
packing gland and (2) that the 18 gallon emergency fresh water tank be con-
verted to a hydraulic oil stowage and periscope over-flow tank (plans are in
refit book) during this refit.

Hydraulic Hand and Emergency Steering Lines - This leak occurred in
the Maneuvering Room behind the auxiliary engine board. It could not be
reached unless the board and several lockers were removed. By sight, the
leak appears to be coming from a faulty silver-soldered sleeve coupling and
is a small continuous stream. When maximum pressure is exerted, this
casualty allows creepage in the system.

- 22 -

— page 28 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

K. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE. (CONT'D).

Engineering casualties were few, with the exception of frequent
liner trouble in No. 2 Main Engine. Electrical casualties were absent
except for the failure of the motor in the starboard lighting circuit
voltage regulator.

No. 1 Main Engine - Operation good under all loads. On 12 July,
found the two inboard head studs on #15 unit broken off flush with the
upper deck plate. Broken studs were removed and replaced with spares.
However, in the installation of the after inboard stud, retapping was
required. Due to faulty retapping, this stud is now out of line, al-
though the head was well seated and the engine operated normally. Present
condition of #15 head is considered unsatisfactory and should be remedied
by reboring, retapping deck plate stud hole, and the use of an oversize
stud for this unit. On 24 July, found cracked liner on #16 unit and re-
placed with liner previously removed from #7 unit on No. 2 Main Engine,
no cracks having been found in this liner. Engine placed in commission,
operation normal.

No. 2 Main Engine - Five liner failures during the first 20 days
of patrol, one of these failures being due to faulty installation of new
liner (liner stud driven in too tightly) and one liner in which no cracks
could visually be found. All liners replaced from ship's spares.

9 June - liner #8 unit cracked.
12 June - liner #2 unit cracked.
16 June - liner #2 unit cracked (due to faulty installation)
17 June - evidence of cracked liner #7 unit. No evidence of
cracking upon removal. Replaced with spare.
28 June - liner #1 unit cracked.

No. 3 Main Engine - No casualties, operation good.

No. 4 Main Engine - No casualties, operation good.

Auxiliary Engine - Tachometer failure on 23 June. Ships force
unable to repair.

Engine hours at return to base for refit: #1 M.E. 1950, #2 M.E.
1000, #3 M.E. 1000, #4 M.E. 1950, Aux. Eng. 650.

Electrical casualties consisted of failure of motor in Westinghouse
Voltage Regulator in the starboard lighting circuit, apparently due to
shorted coils in the armature. Motor replaced by spare. It is recommended
that the movable arm in motor-driven rheostats
of this type be manufactured in two separate sections to facilitate
cleaning of contactors in this piece without removal of gear train. It is
also recommended that the contact piece in the movable arm be lengthened
approximately 1/8" away from the contact surface to improve contact between
it and contactors on the stationary section of the rheostat.

- 23 -

— page 29 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

K. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (CONT'D).

ORDNANCE AND GUNNERY

Torpedo
1. TDC - wire burnt out on contact roller assembly (Ordnance
Drawing No. 212518-1). Replaced from spare parts.

Gunnery
1. 5" gun failed to return to battery after firing 50 rounds
rapid fire. Returned to battery of its own accord after cooling for 10
minutes.

2. After 37mm gun failed to extract with bent extractor. Ex-
tractor straightened and operation normal.

3. Automatic feeder on forward 37mm gun failed, requiring
that ammunition clip be held in place by hand pressure.

4. Action of salt water on both 37mm's continually freezing the
following parts: ejector, accelerator, trigger lever assembly, carrier
pin assembly and trigger lever rod. The after 37mm was converted to a
bolt-fed type when the trigger lever rod could not be freed.

L. RADIO.

Communications were in general satisfactory this patrol. The
materiel condition of the equipment was excellent.

NPM Fox - Enroute to and from station, and while in the patrol
area, NPM Fox was copied on 13,655 and 16,730 kcs. both day and night
with very little trouble. 9090 kcs. is a good alternate. No positively
identified jamming of this schedule was encountered.

The Air Operational Intelligence Circuit was copied for two half-
hour periods every day. The signal strength was most reliable on 8770
kcs. Considerable jamming of the random-keying type was encountered,
often blanking out 8KC entirely. Only the fact that the messages were
sent out twice and each group was repeated twice enabled us to receive
traffic at all. The messages were all sent out by hand. On several oc-
casions, the quality of the sending was very poor. On one occasion (1830
to 1900 sked, 29 June) the operator's sending was so poor that two
men could not copy the message entirely. It is felt
that the 1030 to 1100 schedule is too early for submarines. This sked
should definitely be moved back (preferably 2030 to 2100) so that it comes

- 24 -

— page 30 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

L. RADIO (CONT'D).
out during the evening. On several occasions, we missed this schedule
because we were forced under by planes. When this occurs it is neces-
sary to wait eight hours for the next schedule before any plans can
be made for the next day.

SAFFLAN - Few messages of any interest to us were copied on this
circuit. Several aircraft reports were received. On the 27th of June,
an attempt was made to raise the CARBONERO whom we believed to be south
of us. A contact message on a Jap sub was sent out blind when she failed
to answer. On the 29 July, a rendezvous with the ARGONAUT was arranged by
means of this circuit. A contact report on a periscope was sent to the
ARGONAUT also.

Many Jap stations were heard on whatever SAFFLAN frequency we
happened to be using.

LIFEGUARD FREQUENCY (4475 KC VOICE) - No trouble was experienced
in the use of this frequency. It was used to supplement the VHF when
lifeguard planes were out of the range of our equipment.

VHF - The VHF (140.58 mcs) was guarded throughout the patrol. It
was invaluable for use with planes and was our primary means of friendly
plane identification. Its operation with other subs was not satisfactory
as the maximum readable range is about 7,000 yards.

Two casualties rendered the gear temporarily inoperative: (1) burnt-
out plate resistor on the third IF stage; (2) .0068 microfarad mica screen
by-pass capacitor shorted out in the second IF stage. We were handi-
capped in repairing due to the fact that no spares were provided. It is strongly
recommended that spare part kits be supplied for this model VHF (SCR 624)
and for the SCR 610.

SCR 610 - Was used in one occasion and proved unsatisfactory be-
cause of short range.

TRANSMISSIONS - A total of seven messages were sent out during this
patrol.

Serial | Sent To | Time Consumed | Remarks | Frequency
-------||||
1 | NFN | 22 min. | No trouble. | 8470
2 | NFN | 24 min. | No trouble. | 8470
3 | NFN | 34 min. | CW and jamming during transmission | 8470
| | | | of first 50 groups. |
4 | NFN | 32 min. | Jamming after group 101. | 8470

- 25 -

— page 32 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA. (SS335)

M. RADAR (CONT'D).

SJ - The SJ Radar was operated as a receiver during the entire
period of patrol and for surface search after the failure of the ST.
Its performance was more than satisfactory. In our excursions between
small islands on the China Coast, fishing stakes were picked up at
ranges averaging 2,000 yards. Second return land echoes were received up
to 170,000 yards.

SD - The SD Radar was more or less useless the entire patrol.
Soon after leaving Saipan, a leak developed in the mast, either due to a
porous insulator or to faulty sealing at the top. The mast had been
flooded completely on a deep dive between Panama and Pearl Harbor; but
the insulator had been replaced and the mast cleaned by the U.S.S. BURYLE
in Pearl Harbor.

Ground readings on the mast fluctuated from dead short to 3 megs.
The bottom was taken off and warm air blown into the mast with little
success. Our method of operation, when the condition of the mast permitted,
was to key the SD on surfacing and key it for a very short interval when
an APR contact seemed to be strong and steady on us. At all other times it
was in a standby condition.

APR - Many definite enemy radar contacts were made during the patrol.
Land based air and surface search, and airborne radars were detected daily;
although there was a noticeable abatement as the patrol progressed. A
Japanese submarine's radar was detected and definitely identified. Many
signals were DF'd, and it is felt that this is a valuable feature, although
swinging ship is often difficult if not impossible (as in the case of
making an end around on a Jap sub). DF'ing a short keyed signal is ex-
tremely difficult, and much time is wasted DF'ing signals that fade out
before the bearing is reached. It is hoped that a mechanically-trained
device may be developed that will permit DF'ing without swinging ship.

Both the APR-1 and the pulse analyzer operated normally, but the
APR-5AX failed completely soon after leaving Saipan and was secured. Its
operation had been faulty for some time, and it was overhauled at Saipan.
Soon after leaving for patrol, the filaments of the oscillator tube (446B)
blew out. A thorough inspection of all parts revealed no immediate cause
for this occurrence; and our supply of these oscillator tubes was exhausted
by fruitless experiments. A possible source of the trouble is that the
600 volt plate voltage is fed into the oscillator as soon as the gear is
turned on. The tube has not had a chance to warm up and is subjected
suddenly to a heavy load.

- 27 -

— page 33 —
The following procedure is suggested to standardize APR watch
standing: (Order of heads and number of sweeps through the frequency
band)

TN-1

— page 34 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

O. DENSITY LAYERS.
Density Layers in the area 25° - 27° N, 119° - 122° E were small
if present at all. However, 8° - 9° gradients were found between peri-
scope depth and 100 feet in vicinity 31° N and 126° E. All cards are
being forwarded.

P. HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY.
Health was excellent, being the best period since the ship was
commissioned. Food was good but a marked change in the type of items
obtainable could not help but be noticed by all personnel of many
patrols' experience. The lack of frozen fruits and vegetables was
keenly felt. Habitability was very good, especially when considered
from the standpoint of 79 men and 9 officers aboard the boat designed
for 69 men and eight officers.

Q. PERSONNEL.
(a) Number of men detached after previous patrol - None; this is
first patrol.
(b) Number of men on board during patrol - 79
(c) Number of men qualified at start of patrol
In fleet-type submarines - 22
In O, R, or S type - 20
(d) Number of men qualified at end of patrol - 74
(e) Unqualified men making first war patrol - 57

Included in (e) above are the 19 men qualified only in O, R, or S
type submarines, all of whom requalified in fleet-type boats.

Only five men failed to qualify, two of these were emergency
transfers just prior to sailing with no previous submarine experience.

R. MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED.
PEARL to SAIPAN 3,714 miles 44,290 gals.
SAIPAN to AREA 2,852 miles 32,610 gals.
In AREA 6,783.7 miles 46,220 gals.
AREA to GUAM 2,897.2 miles 36,570 gals.

S. DURATION.
Days en route to area 21 (PEARL to AREA 11A incl. stop at
SAIPAN)
Days in area 30
Days en route to base (GUAM) 11
Days submerged 9

- 29 -

— page 35 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

T. FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING.
    Torpedoes         Fuel         Provisions         Personnel factor
    14                3000         10                 14
    Limiting factor this patrol:   Operation Order

U. COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES.
    RADAR COUNTERMEASURES
    (1) Intercept of enemy signals.

Date | Time | Posit | Freq | PRF | PW | Drot | Head | Shape | Remarks
-----|------|-------|------|-----|----|------|------|-------|
17   | 0110 I | 29-21 | 81   | 520 | 45 | Port | 270  | [Shape drawing] | Steady, slight fluctuation.
     |      | 129-29|      |     |    |      |      |       |
17   | 0610 I | 29-29 | 157  | 500 | 7  | Stbd | 018  | [Shape drawing] | Has no definite sweep;
     |      | 131-13|      |     |    |      |      |       | aircraft.
17   | 1025 I | 30-09 | 70   | 1000| 30 | Port | 320  | [Shape drawing] | Steady.
     |      | 129-45|      |     |    |      |      |       |
17   | 1205 I | 30-22 | 69   | 500 | 37 | Port | 000  | [Shape drawing] | Very strong and steady.
     |      | 129-55|      |     |    |      |      |       |
17   | 1500 I | 31-52 | 74   | 520 | 40 |      |      | [Shape drawing] | Steady, true bearing
     |      | 129-58|      |     |    |      |      |       | 330°.
17   | 1845 I | 31-31 | 159  | 450 | 10 | Stbd | 000  | [Shape drawing] | Kept switching power on
     |      | 128-59|      |     |    |      |      |       | and off.
17   | 2100 I | 31-38 | 77   | 500 | 25 | Port | 000  | [Shape drawing] | Saturated signal. DANJO
     |      | 128-58|      |     |    |      |      |       | GUNTO?
18   | 0006 I | 32-16 | 70   | 1000| 49 | Stbd | 320  | [Shape drawing] | Steady.
     |      | 128-37|      |     |    |      |      |       |
18   | 0105 I | 32-23 | 74   | 450 | 44 | Stbd | 250  | [Shape drawing] | Steady and strong.
     |      | 128-28|      |     |    |      |      |       |
18   | 0115 I | 32-23 | 70   | 450 | 45 | Stbd | 250  | [Shape drawing] | Steady and strong.
     |      | 128-28|      |     |    |      |      |       |
18   | 0230 I | 32-22 | 96   | 750 | 45 | Port | 270  | [Shape drawing] | Sweeping.
     |      | 128-06|      |     |    |      |      |       |

- 30 -

— page 36 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

U. COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES (CONT'D).

Date                                 Ships
Time   Posit Fred PRF PW Drct Head         Shape             Remarks

18     32-22
0525 I 127-31 153  700  8                     Sweeping slowly.

18     31-28
1625 I 125-50 170  500  7.5 Port 237  [Shape drawing]   Sweeping.

18     31-28
1920 I 125-40 69   500  40 Stbd 177  [Shape drawing]   Sweeping, then steady.

19     29-15
0855 H 124-26 78   500  45 Stbd 210  [Shape drawing]   Steady.

19     29-08
0930 H 124-22 74   500  40            [Shape drawing]   Sweeping.

19     28-51
1555 H 122-52 74   500  60 Stbd 220  [Shape drawing]   Radar on CHIEN-T'SANG?

20     25-54
0610 H 121-10 78   500  45 Port 206  [Shape drawing]   Steady. A/C search on
                                                         FORMOSA.

20     25-35
0800 H 121-00 68   500  50 Port 206  [Shape drawing]   Steady. A/C search on
                                                         FORMOSA.

20     25-10
1125 H 120-41 158  400  20            [Shape drawing]   Sweeping regularly.

20     25-30
1925 H 120-12 77   500  25 Port 090  [Shape drawing]   Steady.

20     25-30
2030 H 120-03 160  500  15 Port 090  [Shape drawing]   Sweeping.

20     25-29
2100 H 120-02 177  250  10 Port 245  [Shape drawing]   Came in strong and steady.
                                                         Keyed SD, contact 4 mi., dove.

21     25-25
0200 H 120-17 68   750  70            [Shape drawing]   DF'd, true bearing 120°.

21     25-18
0545 H 120-49 160  500  8  Stbd 070  [Shape drawing]   DF'd at 165°T app. Plane
                                                         sighted.

21     25-19
0800 H 120-44 77   500  30 Stbd 090  [Shape drawing]   Steady

- 31 -

— page 37 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

U. COMMUNICATIONS, RAD.R, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES (CONT'D).

Date | Time | Posit | Freq | PR | PW | Drct | Head | Shape | Remarks
-----|------|-------|------|----|----|------|------|-------| The following signals were characteristic of area, were received
     |      |       |      |    |    |      |      |       | daily, and shall not be included again in this report: 158/500/10,
     |      |       |      |    |    |      |      |       | 77/500/30, 68/500/60, 160/500/15, 78/500/50, and 161/450/10.
21   | 2000 H | 121-05 | 72   | 500 | 30 | Stbd | 270  | [Shape drawing] | Steady.
22   | 0650 H | 120-34 | 156  | 500 |    |      |      | [Shape drawing] | Three possible signals
     |      |       | 160  |    |    |      |      |       | around 160 mcs.
     |      |       | 165  |    |    |      |      |       |
22   | 1115 H | 120-20 | 80   | 1000 | 25 | Stbd | 250  | [Shape drawing] |
23   | 1645 H | 120-20 | 110  | 450 | 20 |      |      | [Shape drawing] | Sweeping.
24   | 0440 H | 121-30 | 155  | 450 |    | Stbd | Port | [Shape drawing] | Sweeping, then steady.
     |      |       |      |    |    |      |      |       | Aircraft contact.
25   | 1750 H | 121-38 | 80   | 500 | 30 | Stbd |      | [Shape drawing] | Pulse, shape, and width
     |      |       |      |    |    |      |      |       | changing.
     |      |       |      |    |    |      |      |       | Definitely identified
     |      |       |      |    |    |      |      |       | as Jap sub we were
     |      |       |      |    |    |      |      |       | tracking.
26   | 2030 H | 120-15 | 148  | 450 | 9  |      |      | [Shape drawing] |
27   | 0545 H | 120-04 | 98   | 500 | 30 | Stbd | 090  | [Shape drawing] | Steady.
27   | 1500 H | 120-20 | 104  | 310 | 90 | Stbd | 320  | [Shape drawing] | Slow sweep.
27   | 1513 H | 120-20 | 109  | 300 | 60 | Stbd | 320  | [Shape drawing] | Slow sweep.
29   | 2222 H | 121-25 | 154  | 500 | 10 | Stbd | 050  | [Shape drawing] |
30   | 0450 H | 120-36 | 164  | 450 | 8  | Stbd | 115  | [Shape drawing] | Common in area. Plane
     |      |       |      |    |    |      |      |       | contact.
1    | 2205 H | 120-39 | 154  | 500 | 10 | Stbd | 040  | [Shape drawing] | Sweeping.
2    | 0800 H | 120-45 | 81   | 450 | 25 | Port | 240  | [Shape drawing] | Fast sweep.

- 32 -

— page 38 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS335)

U. COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES (CONT'D).

Date | Time   | Posit     | Freq | PRF | PW | Ships Dret | Ships Head | Shape           | Remarks
-----|||------|-----|----||||
2    | 1110 H | 26-11     | 157  | 450 | 10 | Port       | 250        | [Shape drawing] |
     |        | 120-35    |      |     |    |            |            |                 |
2    | 2110 H | 25-25     | 162  | 450 | 13 | Port       | 25         | [Shape drawing] | Steady, common contact.
     |        | 120-02    |      |     |    |            |            |                 |
6    | 1014 H | 25-13     | 178  | 225 | 7  |            |            | [Shape drawing] | Bearing 160°T.
     |        | 120-40    |      |     |    |            |            |                 |
7    | 1330 H | 25-32     | 161  | 400 |    |            |            | [Shape drawing] | Bearing 120°T.
     |        | 120-42    |      |     |    |            |            |                 | Sweeping contact.
8    | 1000 H | 25-53     | 77   | 500 | 30 |            |            | [Shape drawing] | Bearing 180°T, very
     |        | 121-06    |      |     |    |            |            |                 | common contact.
9    | 0910 H | 25-34     | 107  | 235 | 13 | Port       | 170        | [Shape drawing] | Erratic sweep.
     |        | 120-54    |      |     |    |            |            |                 |
9    | 1115 H | 25-21     | 160  | 500 | 10 | Port       | 310        | [Shape drawing] | Unidentified plane sighted.
     |        | 120-44    |      |     |    |            |            |                 |
1    | 1741 H | 26-18     | 78   | 500 | 45 |            |            | [Shape drawing] | Bearing 285°T on FUYAN IS.
     |        | 120-11    |      |     |    |            |            |                 |
14   | 1500 H | 25-39     | 78   | 450 | 50 | Port       | 270        | [Shape drawing] |
     |        | 120-32    |      |     |    |            |            |                 |

While in the area, the contacts listed above were reported nearly
every day, although there was a noticeable diminishment of contacts in
the airborne radar frequencies as the patrol progressed. On the return
trip a large concentration of land based radar was encountered while
rounding DANJO GUNTO. One plane radar was intercepted. These radars
were similar to those logged for the period 17-18 June.

(2) Jamming, own and enemy.
(3) Deception, own and enemy.
(4) Scope of photographs of targets of interest or unusual
phenomena, as practicable.

No radar jamming or deception observed.

- 33 -

— page 39 —
FIRST WAR PATROL
DENTUDA (SS 335)

U. COMMUNICATIONS, RADAR, AND SONAR COUNTERMEASURES (CONT'D).

COMMUNICATIONS COUNTERMEASURES
(1) Intercept of enemy signals.
(2) Jamming, own and enemy.

Jap jamming was common on both SAFPLAN, Air Operation Intelligence
and Primary Ship-to-Shore Circuits. The most effective type is a keyed
CW, either of the random type or simulating traffic. None of the jamming
encountered hampered communications to any extent.

The only countermeasure employed by this vessel was to shift
frequency slightly when sending on an 8470 kcs, in order to by-pass a strong
enemy station sending continuously over that frequency.

(3) Deception, own and enemy.

No deception noted.

SONAR COUNTERMEASURES

None observed or employed this patrol.

V. REMARKS.

As a summary, there are certain pertinent facts that should be dis-
cussed, hindsight being superior to foresight.

First, in the gun action of 18 June, the rate of fire was too great.
This was due, in part, to lack of experience and, in part, to the intense
fire of both YP's with its attendant phsycological effect to quickly
finish off the enemy. The gun is mounted aft on this submarine which adds
to the problem of properly approaching two highly maneuverable targets.
The smaller of the two was apparently the flag of this small tactical unit
as it was from here that the flag signals emanated. Closing visibility,
lack of confidence in materiel, and excessive consumption of ammunition
were the final factors in the decision to break off the attack.

Second, after having missed the I-Class submarine with four torpedoes,
it would have been much better had I used the mooring board solution and
taken such action as to place the DENTUDA 30 to 35,000 yards ahead of the
projected track of the target. On closing as I did to establish contact
with the SI radar, I overestimated the effective range of that device and
underestimated the efficiency of his own radar installation. It is par-
ticularly noteworthy in this case, however, that the enemy did not use
his own radar until immediately following the initial 9,000 yard indication
on our own screen. This occurred at 2030 after more than an hour of
darkness. Prior to this he had not made any radar sweeps, a fact borne out
by the APR installation. This last might offer the supposition that he
had some method of detecting the ST.

- 34 -

— page 40 —
F**ST WAR PATROL
L. JUDA (SS335)

V. REMARKS (CONT'D).

To continue, after it became evident that he was aware of the
presence of an unknown target, I opened out at four-engine speed to
the 25,000 yard circle and then took a southerly course in an effort
to work ahead. All during this, we received indications at irregular
intervals on our APR screen of 148 mcs. There are two conclusions to
be drawn from this; (1) that he was tracking us or (2) that he was
fixing his position by ranges and bearings on HAITAN ISLAND, which was
close on our starboard hand. This latter may well be so in that a
ship transiting FORMOSA STRAITS would normally change course to the
right when HAITAN is abeam to starboard. At 2310, I swung ship to the
left to obtain a bearing of his radar. a most difficult procedure in-
volving considerable time when attempting to center on a radar used
intermittently for very brief periods of time. I had just obtained a
true bearing, the generated range on the TDC was 18,000 yards, when
much to my astonishment the Executive Officer or the bridge sighted
him in the path of the moon and simultaneously, the ST picked him up
at a range of 9,900 yards. We dived and for a time he closed. This
was the last that we ever saw of him.

After much consideration, the following schedule was arrived at
as the most efficient utilization of the radar installation with the
least opportunity of detection by the enemy.

1. Radar Equipment.

SD - Used on surfacing. Keyed once as mast broke surface
again on surface, and three minutes later to take care of any planes
that may have been in the blind zone on surfacing. I also had it keyed
on some occasions when the APR gear had shown a saturation pi over
long period of time. At other times, the SD was in standby condition.

SJ - Used only as a receiver. Infrequently to check ST con-
tacts.

ST - Sweep for one minute out of every five.

2. Radar Receiver Equipment.

In the following sequence, the APR-1 heads and APR-5AX were used
to cover enemy radar frequencies:

- 35 -

— page 41 —
[STAMP: FIRST WAR PATROL]
[STAMP: DENTUDA (SS335)]

V. REMARKS (CONT'D).

TN-1 35- 95 mcs 2 sweeps
TN-3 (300-1000 mcs) 3 sweeps
APR-5 (1000-3000 mcs) 3 sweeps
TN-2 75- 300 mcs) 4 sweeps - then careful hand
                                        sweep in vicinity of 150 mcs.

The above takes about ten minutes with the greatest concentration
around the aircraft frequencies (150-165 mcs).

On first entering this area, enemy airborne radar frequencies were
numerous and plane sighting few. Even on days of unlimited visibility the
enemy used his radar. Each evening an apparent air search was conducted
on the coast, lasting from 1700 to 0100-0200 in the morning. As time
went on, the number of contacts decreased until the last week when air
activity was greatly reduced. While standing in to MATSU anchorage on
the afternoon of 17 July, a small unidentified plane crossed the bow and
continued on down the coast.

In an area of this character, night surface patrols in close to the
beach are the only answer. It was customary before proceeding into
various inlets and straits up and down the coast to go to battle stations
gun action and shift to the batteries. This last eliminated excessive
engine noises. Another gun forward is very essential in this type of work.

Repeatedly this vessel entered straits and inlets well inside the
ten fathom curve after dark using charts that in some instances were very
unreliable. The efficient piloting was well and ably handled by Lt. SCHOCKEN
the department of navigation. The efficient reaction of the gunnery and
torpedo departments to the contact of 26 June, requiring very short notice
in which to prepare the after tubes for firing, speaks well for the
entire department. Lt. WHITE and Lt. CHADWICK. In fact, I have only the
highest praise for the officers and crew on this patrol.

- 36 -

— page 42 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THREE FORTY TWO
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
1 August 1945.

FB5-342/A16-3
Serial: (010)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to:
U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335)
Conf.ltr. SS335/A9 Ser.
(04) of 29 July 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Division THREE FORTY-TWO.
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY-FOUR.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Administration.
(3) The Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335) - Report of War Patrol
Number One.

1. The first war patrol of the DENTUDA, under the
experienced command of Commander J. S. McCAIN, Jr., U. S. Navy,
was conducted in the East China Sea and Formosa Straits areas
during the period 29 May to 29 July 1945. "Life guard stations"
were assigned on twelve (12) of the thirty (30) days spent in
the area.

2. The area was covered in an aggressive and thorough
manner. The attacks are summarized as follows:

(a) Gun attack number one.

On 18 June, ST radar and lookouts made simul-
taneous contact on two (2) XPC's of about 200 tons each. After
examination, these targets were taken under fire. About 50 rounds
had been fired and 2 hits were visible when the 5"/25 caliber
gun failed to return to battery. The gun was repaired and fire
was resumed. One direct hit was scored on the other target and
it became enveloped in smoke. Firing was ceased due to exces-
sive ammunition expenditure and poor visibility.

(b) Torpedo attack number one.
While patrolling submerged on 26 June, JP and
QB detected an I-class submarine at a range of 4000 yards. A
quick set up was obtained and four MK-18-2 torpedoes set for 10
feet were fired 5 minutes after contact. The run of torpedoes
was 3500 yards on 160° track. The estimated target speed was
16 knots. All torpedoes missed. DENTUDA surfaced, closed to
ST radar range and attempted an end-around. This was foiled by

- 1 -

— page 44 —
fh
COMMANDER SUBMARINE SQUADRON THIRTY-FOUR

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
3 August 1945.

FC5-34/A16-3
Serial (040)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
SECOND INDORSEMENT to
USS DENTUDA (SS 335)
Conf. ltr SS335/A9,
ser 04 of 29 July 1945.

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

Subject: U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS 335) - Report of War Patrol Number ONE.

1. Forwarded concurring in the remarks of the Commander Submarine
Division THREE HUNDRED FORTY-TWO.

2. It is of particular note that most of the thirty days on patrol
were spent investigating extensively a long stretch of the China Coast. The
DENTUDA was in extremely shallow water during this entire time and found that
absolutely no traffic, other than the one ship sunk, was using this shore
route from the South to the Empire. Of note also is the fact that one of these
anchorages searched and found empty was that in which the BALE made its famous
attack a few months ago.

3. The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY-FOUR congratulates the
Commanding Officer, Officers and crew of the DENTUDA for the damage inflicted
upon the enemy and for the aggressive and thorough area search made.

[SIGNATURE: E. T. Grinnell]
E. T. GRINNELL

— page 45 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial 02094
CONFIDENTIAL

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
[HANDWRITTEN: PHOTOTAT CARY IN DUP. FILE]
RECLASSIFICATION THIS CORRESPONDENCE
[HANDWRITTEN: CHANGED TO SECRET]
[HANDWRITTEN: AUTHORITY: CONF. MEMO. FF1/A 10-3]
[HANDWRITTEN: ABR:0346 OF 27 JAN. 1944]
[HANDWRITTEN: DATE: 10 SEPT. 1945]

mr
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
21 August 1945.
[STAMP: 8 04312]
NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.

THIRD INDORSEMENT
DENTUDA Report of
First War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 853
U.S.S. DENTUDA - FIRST WAR PATROL.

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335) - Report of First War Patrol
(29 May to 29 July 1945).

1. The first war patrol of the DENTUDA, under the experienced com-
mand of Commander J. S. McCain, Jr., U.S. Navy, was conducted in the East China
Sea and Formosa Straits areas.

2. This patrol consisted of lifeguard duties and offensive patrol.
No opportunities were presented for performing lifeguard rescues. Excellent
area coverage and a very thorough and determined reconnaissance of the China
Coast, during which the DENTUDA explored several shallow anchorages, produced
one target worthy of torpedo fire. This the DENTUDA sank. It is regretted
that the DENTUDA was unable to close the only other torpedo target, an "I" Class
submarine, to an advantageous range for using Mark 18 torpedoes. An exciting
gun attack resulted in the damage of two patrol craft.

3. Award of Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol is authorized.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
commanding officer, officers, and crew of the DENTUDA for the completion of this
well planned, aggressive and smartly conducted patrol. The DENTUDA is credited
with having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy during this patrol:

S U N K

1 - Medium AK (EU) - 4,000 tons (Attacks Nos. 2 & 3)

D A M A G E D

2 - XPC (one 200 tons, one 150 tons;
both similar to Picture P-138,
Submarine Supplement 2) (EC) - 350 tons (Gun Attack No. 1)

TOTAL SUNK & DAMAGED 4,350 tons
[STAMP: EXTRA]
[STAMP: ORIGINAL]
[STAMP: SORG.]
[STAMP: MICRO]
[STAMP: PHOTO-LAB OP-16]
[STAMP: RETURN TO F-4253]
Authentication and distribution
on next page.
- 1 -
G. C. CRAWFORD,
Chief of Staff.

[HANDWRITTEN: 137581]

— page 46 —
The following text is transcribed from the image provided:

FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial 02094
CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
DENTUDA Report of
First War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 853
U.S.S. DENTUDA - FIRST WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. DENTUDA (SS335) - Report of First War Patrol
(29 May to 29 July 1945).

— page 47 —
END OF REEL [HANDWRITTEN: #5]
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 9-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR 127-78]

|||1.0
|||1.1
|||1.25 |||1.4 |||1.6
|||2.8 |||2.5
|||3.2 |||2.2
|||3.6 |||2.0
|||4.0 |||1.8

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION