U.S.S. PORPOISE (SS-172) — war patrol report SS-172_PORPOISE.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-185-76]

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OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: C. MILLER]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 1/2/76]

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

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

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Office of Naval Records and Histories
Ship's History Section
Navy Department

HISTORY OF USS PORPOISE (SS 172)

The first diesel-electric submarine built by the United States
Navy was USS PORPOISE. Construction was begun on the sub on 1 November
1933, at the U.S. Navy Yard, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The SS-172
slid down the ways at Portsmouth on 20 June 1935, sponsored by Miss
Eva Croft of Somersworth, New Hampshire. About two months later
(15 August 1935) the sub was commissioned with Lieutenant Commander
S.S. Murray, USN, as her first commanding officer.

After trials were completed off Portsmouth, PORPOISE departed for
her shakedown cruise on 3 January 1936. Ports she visited were:
Newport, Rhode Island; New London, Connecticut; Washington, D.C.;
Miami, Florida; Curacao, Dutch West Indies; Canal Zone; Port Antonio,
Jamaica; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; New Orleans, Louisiana, and Savannah,
Georgia, returning to Portsmouth in June 1936.

PORPOISE transitted the Panama Canal, and on 1 September 1936, she
joined the Pacific Fleet at San Diego. For five months the sub under-
went extensive training in gunnery and torpedo exercises and in March
1937, she participated in a fleet problem in the Hawaiian area, return-
ing to San Diego in May 1937.

The submarine entered the Mare Island Navy Yard in November 1937
for an extensive overhaul and, overhaul completed, she proceeded to
Pearl Harbor for fleet exercises in January 1938. Twenty-two months
later (19 November 1939) PORPOISE got underway for Manila where she
became part of the Asiatic Fleet upon her arrival (1 December 1939).
From December 1939 to December 1941, she was engaged in various
exercises with Submarines, Asiatic Fleet.

At the outbreak of the war (7 December 1941) PORPOISE was at
Olongapo, Philippine Islands, undergoing a refit. She was a portrait
in miniature of the United States' unpreparedness at the start of the
war. With all four main engines being overhauled and her entire
after battery out, PORPOISE was in no condition to meet the enemy.
As the required work was accomplished in record time, she became one
of the few U.S. Vessels operating in the Pacific. The sub moved to
Manila on 20 December 1941, and was enroute to her First War Patrol
only 15 days after the Japs struck Pearl Harbor.

The sub steamed out of Manila Bay on 22 December enroute to her
Fist Patrol with Lieutenant Commander J.A. Callaghan, USN, as command-
ing officer. After picking her way through the mine fields off
Corregidor, PORPOISE set course for the Lingayen Gulf. The following
day at 1433, while off the gulf, she made her first contact with the
enemy, a Japanese destroyer -- 4,000 yards range. The Jap quickly
picked up the scent and came charging toward the sub, which immediately
dove, rigged for depth charge attack and commenced silent running.

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-2-
PORPOISE (SS 172)

Deep in the murk PORPOISE picked up still more screw noises on
her sound gear, indicating that the enemy had been joined by another
ship. Five charges were felt at a distance, then the DD stopped, and
three more charges were felt much closer. Sixteen more charges were
dropped at a distance, before PORPOISE was able to clear the area,
having incurred very slight damage.

On Christmas Day PORPOISE again made contact with two enemy des-
troyers. This time she was subjected to eighteen accurately placed
charges, which were so close they seemed to explode over her and
actually blistered the paint in her conning tower. This attack result-
ed in a great deal of minor damage, none of which was serious enough
to force her to return to her base, thanks to the hard work of her
crew in repairing the sub.

PORPOISE proceeded to the China Sea area on 28 December and on
11 January 1942, while patrolling off Cape Padaran, French Indo-China,
she made one contact, but was unable to make any attack. She proceed-
ed on her patrol, passing through the Balabac Strait, Sulu Sea,
Celebes Sea, and into the Makassar Strait, arriving off Balikpapan on
23 January. Here, PORPOISE observed the blasting of oil wells by the
Dutch, who were following the well-known scorched earth policy
as the Japanese had invaded Borneo. While patrolling off Balikpapan
at 0205 on 27 January an unidentified ship was sighted, tracked and
attacked, but due to unknown circumstances the torpedoes either miss-
ed or failed to explode. At 0900 the same day, another enemy ship
was attacked, but again the results were negative. That night POR-
POISE left the area enroute to Surabaya, via Cape Mandar and Madura
Straits, mooring at the Naval Base, Surabaya, Java, on 31 January.

Her refit completed, PORPOISE stood out of Surabaya on 9 February
enroute to the Netherland East Indies area for her Second War Patrol.
Clearing the mine fields off Madura Strait, she proceeded through
the Makassar Strait, and it wasn't until the 26th day (6 March 1942)
of the Patrol that she sighted the first enemy vessel, a light cruiser
of the NATORI class. However, the enemy ship was at too great a
distance and PORPOISE could not close the range for attack.

It wasn't until 13 March that PORPOISE made the only attack of
this patrol. At 1535 smoke was sighted on the horizon. This contact
developed into a convoy composed of three cargo ships in column with
one ASASHIO Class destroyer as escort. Commencing her approach at 1600
PORPOISE hove into position and fired a spread of four torpedoes at
the leading AK at 1643. One hit was heard before the enemy escort came
charging in the direction of PORPOISE, causing her to seek the depths.
Far below the surface the sub rigged for depth charge attack and at
1655 the first of twelve extremely close charges was felt. The enemy
DD kept circling and searching until 1843, at which time the sub came
to Periscope depth and sighted one AK and two ships of unknown type,
silhouetted against the western sky.

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-3-
PORPOISE

Leaving this area, PORPOISE took up the assigned patrol and then
transitted the Malay Barrier. On 23 March the sub was caught in a
terrific cyclone, which lasted until the 25th. The storm reached such
severe proportions that, while it was believed that PORPOISE could be
successfully submerged, the Commanding Officer could not see how she
could be resurfaced without foundering. Therefore the sub rode out the
storm on mountainous seas, until it finally subsided.

On 30 March PORPOISE made rendezvous with USS ISABEL and anchored
at Fremantle, Australia, having completed her 50-day war patrol.

The submarine moved from Fremantle to Albany, Australia (3-5 April)
for her refit and she returned to Fremantle (24-26 April). Here, the
sub topped-off fuel, water, and provisions and the same afternoon (26
April) set course for Pearl Harbor, via the Netherlands East Indies
for her Third War Patrol.

Proceeding up the west coast of Australia, passing Timor, and
through the Banda Sea, PORPOISE took up patrol off the western approach
to Ambon on 8 May. That day she sighted a 5,000-ton cargo ship with
a single gunboat as escort, close inshore. The sub made her approach
and then closed to attack, firing a spread of four torpedoes at the
AK. However, as the target changed course to head up Ambon Bay at the
last minute, all the torpedoes missed. PORPOISE then sought the
safety of the deep and rigged for depth charge attack.

Fifteen minutes after the torpedoes were launched, the enemy escort
dropped four very close charges, which caused extensive minor damage
to the sub. PORPOISE lay in hiding until 1835, when upon surfacing,
she found the enemy ship sitting a mere 5,000 yards away. However, the
gunboat did not see the sub and she silently and quickly cleared the
area.

That night PORPOISE received orders to proceed to the enemy held
island of Ju (also spelt Joe and Iu), and rescue the crew of an Army
plane, which had made a crash landing there. Arriving off Ju on the
10th, the sub lay, submerged, 1,000 yards off the beach until sunset.
At this time a large bonfire was sighted on the beach, and considering
this to be a signal beacon, the sub surfaced and moved in as close to
the beach as possible. The friendly natives on this island brought the
five survivors out to the sub on their bancas.

With the Army airmen safely aboard, PORPOISE set course for Darwin,
Australia, mooring there on 16 May. At Darwin the sub took on fuel,
provisions and fresh water, and debarked the rescued airmen. She got
underway to continue her patrol the next day.

After a month of unproductive patrolling, she moored at Pearl
Harbor on 17 June, thus ending her Third War Patrol for which she was
awarded the Submarine Combat Insignia.

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-4-
PORPOISE

On 20 June, PORPOISE set sail from Pearl Harbor enroute to Mare
Island, California, arriving there on the 28th. The submarine under-
went a major overhaul at Mare Island, having new main engines and
radar installed. After a series of post-overhaul tests, PORPOISE got
underway for Pearl Harbor on 22 October, and upon arrival there, the
Submarine Base made repairs on deficiencies developed in passage.
Repairs completed, PORPOISE underwent an eight-day training period and
on 29 November she was ready for sea.

PORPOISE departed Pearl Harbor on the 30th, enroute to Midway and
her Fourth War Patrol. The sub arrived at Midway on 4 December, top-
ped-off fuel and stores, and got underway the following morning.

Steaming steadily, the sub made two unfruitful contacts before
arriving off the coast of Honshu on 18 December. While patrolling off
Honshu, PORPOISE made numerous contacts, but all were sampans, too
small to bother with. However, on 31 December an eight ship convoy
with one escort was sighted and PORPOISE commenced tracking them.
After tracking the convoy all night, the sub closed to attack the
following morning, firing four torpedoes at two overlapping freighters.
Three hits were scored and upon observation the main target (5,000-tons)
was seen to break in two and the secondary target almost immediately
took a heavy list to port and headed for the beach.

While observing the results of the attack and looking for the
escort, the first depth charge went off. Immediately PORPOISE went
deep and seven more charges were felt. Before the enemy vessel was no
longer heard, the sub went to periscope depth and, after determining
that the remnants of the convoy had long since departed, she cleared
the area.

On 3 January 1943, PORPOISE, while patrolling off Kinkasan, sight-
ed a convoy which first looked like a long approach, but that was a
mirage, as suddenly the ships seemed to jump over the horizon and
the sub found herself about 3,000 yards from the escort, a CHIDORA
Class torpedo boat. PORPOISE turned and fired a stern shot at the
escort, but no hit resulted, as the torpedo appeared to pass directly
beneath it. The submarine immediately dove, and was promptly set upon
by the escort, which dropped nine extremely close depth charges with
no serious damage resulting. Laying quiet in the murk for an hour
after the escort was last heard, the sub surfaced and started in pur-
suit of the convoy. However, after over three hours pursuit, it was
apparent that PORPOISE could not catch the enemy vessels.

Leaving her patrol area on 7 January, PORPOISE headed for Midway,
mooring there on 15 January, thus completing her Fourth War Patrol for
which she was awarded the Submarine Combat Insignia.

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PORPOISE
                                                              -5-

        Refit completed, PORPOISE departed on her Fifth War Patrol on 6
February, but due to leaky oil tanks the patrol was delayed and the
sub proceeded to Pearl Harbor for dry-docking and repair, arriving
there on the 15th. Eleven days later (26 February) with all repairs
completed, PORPOISE stood out of Pearl Harbor and headed for Johnston
Island. After an uneventful passage, the sub arrived off Johnston
Island on 1 March 1943, and proceeded onward to her patrol area.

        On 9 March PORPOISE sighted a convoy off Kwajalein, but after a
night of tracking she was unable to get close enough to attack. The
sub then continued on to her patrol ground off Jaluit Atoll
where she made contact with a seaplane tender and its escort, but as
her radar went out of commission for a time during the night, SS-172
lost contact with the enemy.

        The submarine made many contacts with enemy vessels too small to
bother with, before sighting a 3,000-ton cargo ship on 4 April. POR-
POISE submerged, made her approach, and, -- in position -- she fired
a spread of three torpedoes at the AK. The last missile hit the enemy
vessel, which immediately burst into flames and started settling by the
stern, sinking in four minutes.

        After patrolling her area for a while longer, PORPOISE headed for
Johnston Island with her fuel running dangerously low, due to constant
running against heavy seas. Safely reaching Johnston Island, she
refueled, and then proceeded to Pearl Harbor, arriving there on 15
April 1943, thus completing her Fifth War Patrol for which she was
awarded the Submarine Combat Insignia.

        After undergoing her normal refit at Pearl Harbor, PORPOISE got
underway for her Sixth War Patrol on 20 June 1943. The Sub proceeded
to Johnston Island where she topped-off fuel and provisions, departing
there the same day (22 June).

        Five days after leaving Johnston Island, she was depth-bombed by
an enemy plane, but no damage resulted. The following day (28 June)
PORPOISE performed reconnaissance work on Taroa Island, and on the 30th,
while patrolling off Enijun Channel, she made contact with a medium
freighter with two escorts and screened overhead by two enemy planes.
Making her approach, PORPOISE fired a brace of torpedoes from her stern
tubes at the freighter and one hit was heard.

        PORPOISE dove to 225 feet and rigged for depth charge attack, and
shortly thereafter two heavy aerial bombs landed close to the sub. The
underseas raider was then subjected to a very accurate depth charge
attack, and a total of thirteen charges were dropped in singles or
pairs, the first few driving SS-172 down to 275 feet.

        Again PORPOISE incurred much minor damage, but 18 minutes after the
first bombs were dropped, the last depth charge was heard, and the
sub cleared the immediate area.

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-6-
PORPOISE

At 0020 on 3 July contact was made with an enemy freighter with
one escort and PORPOISE commenced tracking. Having made her approach
and gained position, the sub fired a spread of three torpedoes at
0213. Two hits were scored, which sank the target, and the sub went
to deep submergence to prepare for depth charge attack, which for
some unknown reason, was not forthcoming.

PORPOISE continued patrolling in her assigned area and on 6 and 7
July she underwent aerial bombings and a depth charge attack. Two
night gun attacks were conducted, one against an auxiliary schooner on
15 July, and one against an enemy radio station on 17 July. While on
this patrol PORPOISE made excellent reconnaissance on many enemy-held
islands in the Marshall Islands group.

At 1012 on 18 July, contact was made with an enemy passenger
freighter with two escorts, and after tracking the Jap vessels for 14
hours, PORPOISE closed the freighter, and fired a brace of torpedoes.
Both of the missiles ran true and hit, leaving the target dead in the
water. The sub dove and rigged for depth charge attack, which amounted
to three very heavy (but not very close) depth charges.

Shortly after the depth charging, PORPOISE went to periscope depth
reapproached the target and fired two torpedoes, one of which hit,
and the passenger-freighter started to settle by the bow. The sub
again dove for the briney deep and rigged for depth charge attack, with
the escorts steaming directly for her. Eleven heavy charges were
dropped by the escorts, but, fortunately, none were very close and
PORPOISE cleared the area.

The morning of 21 July PORPOISE departed her assigned area and
headed for Pearl Harbor, arriving there on 28 July 1943, thus ending
her Sixth (and last) War Patrol, for which she was awarded the Sub-
marine Combat Insignia.

Due to leaky fuel oil tanks PORPOISE departed Pearl Harbor for
New London, Connecticut, where she was to be used as a training sub.
The submarine arrived at New London in September 1943, and, except
for the period between May and July 1944, when she underwent an over-
haul at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she
served on this duty in the New London area.

PORPOISE was decommissioned on 15 November 1945 at Boston, Massa-
chusetts, and remained in that status until 8 May 1947, when she was
assigned to the EIGHTH Naval District, Houston, Texas, for Naval
Reserve Training.

During her six war patrols (from 22 December 1941 to 28 July 1943),
PORPOISE sent four enemy vessels, totaling 25,600 tons to the bottom
and damaged four more, totaling 13,000 tons. She also rescued five
Army airmen from the enemy-held island of Ju. SS-172 was awarded four
Submarine Combat Insignias for her successful patrols against the enemy.

— page 8 —
....                                                              -7-                                                              PORPOISE

                                                              SUCCESSIVE LIST OF COMMANDING OFFICERS

Lieut. Comdr. S.S. Murray, USN                                 -     15 August 1935 to June 1937
Lieut. Comdr. J.M. Will, USN                                   -     June 1937 to July 1939
Lieut. Comdr. J.A. Callaghan, USN                              -     July 1939 to February 1942
Lieut. Comdr. J.R. McKnight, USN                               -     February 1942 to May 1943
Lieut. Comdr. C.L. Pennett, USN                                -     May 1943 to August 1943
Lieut. Comdr. L.E. Strickler, USN                              -     August 1943 to September 1944
Lieut. Comdr. J.J. Madison, USN                                -     September 1944 to 15 Nov., 1945

                                                               ***

The PORPOISE (SS 172) earned five (5) battle stars on the Asiatic-
Pacific Area Service Ribbon, for participating in the following opera-
tions:

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol Pacific -- 30 November 1942 to 15 January
     1943
1 Star/Submarine War Patrol Pacific -- 26 February to 15 May 1943
1 Star/Submarine War Patrol Pacific -- 20 June to 28 July 1943
1 Star/Philippine Island Operation (including Guam and other con-
     current
     Asiatic Fleet operations) 8 December 1941 to 6 May 1942
1 Star/Midway 3-6 June 1942

                                                               ****
                                                              STATISTICS

SURFACE DISPLACEMENT                                           1,310 tons
OVERALL LENGTH                                                 -     301 feet
BEAM                                                           -     25 feet                                                              COMPLEMENT - 57
SURFACE SPEED                                                  -     20 knots

                                                               ***

                                                              Stencilled 25 June 1948
                                                              Restencilled 3 April 1951

— page 9 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]

SS172/A5
Serial C-1 & C-2

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172) [HANDWRITTEN: First WP]

February 3, 1942

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander Submarines, U.S. ASIATIC FLEET.

Subject: War Patrol Report, [HANDWRITTEN: first]

Enclosure: (A) War Patrol Report consisting of Parts A,B,
            E,F,G,H,I,K, for the period December 22,
            1941 to January 30, 1942.

1. Enclosure (A) is submitted herewith.

2. Parts C and D and track chart will be submitted
at an early date.

[SIGNATURE: J. A. Callaghan]
J. A. CALLAGHAN.

[HANDWRITTEN: Filmed]
[HANDWRITTEN: 40204]

— page 10 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) to
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N_F_I_D_E_N_T_I_A_L_
WAR PATROL REPORT

A. Brief narrative including time and position and incidents
of note:

22 December 1941 - Off Luzon.

Departed Manila 1615 (-9 Time) and set course for mine field
off Corregidor, anchoring off Mariveles at 1841. Underway 2021
and cleared outer field approach at 2059 and set direct course for
Lingayen Gulf zig zagging for first hour keeping fifteen miles off
coast. Speed 15.5 on four engines.

23 December 1941 - Off Lingayen Gulf.

As before, course 000. 0630 dived and commenced submerged patrol
at 100 feet with observations hourly. Swells but no white caps. Cape
Bolinao in sight after 0900. 1125 c/c to 040° T heading for area.
Sound reported screws 1453, bearing 020° T. Took look and sighted Jap
destroyer on that bearing heading west, range 4000 yards. While ob-
serving DD commenced changing course to left. Went to 100 feet and
ran at minimum speed. Sound bearings indicated DD had speed up and
had headed our direction. Did not believe we had been detected.
1504 Five depth charges somewhat distant. Rigged for depth charge at-
tack and commenced maneuvering to avoid. Sound reported several high
speed screws and one heavy slow one. Last was destroyer and it was
much closer than we had thought. DD had speed up and
might have been. After dropping
depth charges DD stopped. 1520 Three depth charges closer. Heard
nothing to indicate use of supersonic. Went to 135 feet. 1548 Eight
depth charges more not so close. DD con-
tinued maneuvering in vicinity. 1740 Lost contact and came up for look.
DD bore 260° T, 5000 yards stopped. Sound heard DD start up and he
came in our direction. Went to 140 feet. DD made runs but dropped no
charges. Steadied on course 045 and stayed deep. Position of encounter
15 miles, 342° T from Cape Bolinao. 1835 Course 000. Had been in area
since 1600. 2015 Surfaced and commenced patrol of area on 330° and re-
verse. Took general station in southeast part of area. No damage
suffered in attack except plug in sight glass in after torpedo room
leaked slightly. Moved torpedo and tightened, leak stopped.

-1-
[HANDWRITTEN: 650]

— page 11 —
ENCLOSURE (A) to
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1941.

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

A. (Continued):

24 December 1941 - Off Lingayen Gulf.

As before. Dived at 0617 to 100 feet. Patrolled generally at that
depth with hourly observations. Sea smooth, bright sunshine. 1915
surfaced. Took star sights. Had been on surface charging north
over 32 hour period. Set 24 miles on 020. Received CSAE 241015 to
enter Lingayen Gulf. Decided to wait completion of battery charge
and moon set prior entry. Had her by PERMIT on T.B.S. Had her
in sight to eastward for short time. At 2215 set course 150, speed
11.5 knots heading for gulf. Sea oily smooth. Charging batteries.
Evening sights no good, depending on fathometer.

25 December 1941 - Off Lingayen Gulf.

Proceeding toward mouth of gulf, speed 11.5 knots, course 190,
using fathometer to obtain position. Took quick reading every fifteen
minutes. Moon set shortly after 0000. Sea oily smooth, sky clear,
horizon black and hazy. At 0100 c/c to 160° T. 0108 Sighted DD
slightly on starboard bow, distance 1000 yards. Was at right angles to
our course and was not certain for an instant whether or not it was
DD or own SS. Stopped. About 30 seconds later another DD bearing 050°
relative sighted; lighted searchlight and rigged for depth charge attack.
Screws heard by sound approaching. Dived
0111 while at 90 feet first depth charge followed by seven more. Went
to 150 - 170 feet and maneuvered. 0120 two depth charges. DD seemed to
coast up over us and let go. 0138 Eight depth charges. All eighteen
were close seeming to explode directly overhead. Blistered paint in
conning tower.

Damage resulted:
One generator for sound in forward torpedo room went out. Relief
valve in fuel oil system in engineroom lifted flooding bilges with oil.
In order to avoid using pump formed bucket brigade and carried oil
and water to washroom and thence to sanitary. Fumes in engineroom
were very bad men having hard time of it there. Boat very heavy. Each
time pump started DD closed. Ran it at very short intervals. During
evasion and until clear speed minimum except during droppings and shortly
thereafter. 0340 Considered further attempt at entry impracticable at
this time and decided to try escape to north. Believed we had encoun-
tered outer line of two DD lines across gulf. Line had been encountered
much sooner than had been expected. It extended, in my opinion, from
Darigayas Point to Bolinao and needed to be only 10 miles in length.

-2-
[HANDWRITTEN: 651]
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

— page 12 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE SERIAL C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT.

25 December 1941 - Cont'd)

DD continued making runs but no more charges. At 0400 contact was
lost and not again regained. There is possibility that SS screws
were heard between 0200 and 0330. At 0500 secured from depth charge
quarters. Pumped bilges and compressors run to take down 3½" of pres-
sure. Morale of crew very good through this and other depth charge at-
tack. Sound left nothing to be desired. Exact point of contact, Lat.
16-47-00 N, Long 120-02-30 E. The most serious damage suffered in this
attack did not become apparent until later. This was (1) loss of 350
gallons of battery water due to leak caused in joint of system in for-
ward battery and (2) freezing up of high periscope apparently due to
a defect easily remedied but took several days to finally clear. Periscope was never so
tight that it could not be turned but an approach with it would have
been impossible. 0500 Decided to move to north between SALMON and SAURY
area and decide what to do next. Heard distant depth charging at this
time to the southward. During daylight patrolled at 100 feet with hourly
observation. Surfaced 1925. 1930 Fix Lat 17-25 N, Long 119-44 E.
Decided to take station to westward of SAURY area and await developments.
Patrolled area on 150 and reverse about 10 miles to westward of SAURY
western boundary.

26 December 1941 - Off Lingayen Gulf.

As Before. 0530 Believed depth charging heard to southward. Dived
0623 and patrolled souther part of area on 150 and 330.
Considering situation carefully and fully decided that further
attempt to enter gulf should not be made. Factors governing this
decision were:
1. Strong enemy defense line stationed so that entrance submerged
not possible. Attempt on surface at night had been found the same.
2. The fact that enemy car ier and cruiser were no longer in gulf
3. Reduced number of enemy vessels in gulf with their location
not well known.
4. Necessity of passing through SAURY and SALMON area.
5. The belief from general information despatches that true pic-
ture at Lingayen not known by higher authority.
On basis of above decided that COMSUB should be notified by des-
patch on surfacing. Sent 261600 after general traffic had been
cleared after surfacing. Received by NPO 1619 G.C.T.
Surfaced 1921. Hauled clear to westward to send message referred
to above.

-3-
[HANDWRITTEN: 652]

— page 13 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) to
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

C O N F I D E N T I A L
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

27 December 1941 - Off Lingayen Gulf.

As before. Returned area after sending message and patrolled
on 150 and 330. At 0430 received 08AF Serial 20. At 0540 set course
280° T proceeding in accordance with above. 0640 Fix. Lat 16-37 N,
Long 118-59 W. At 0642 dived to 100 feet. In morning discovered
battery water leak caused by depth charges which lost 350 gallons
water from forward battery. This was not thought too serious at the
time as it was believed sufficient water could be made to conduct
patrol and return Manila.
1920 Surfaced. 1925 Fix. Lat 16-50 N, Long 118-56 E. Went ahead
on two engines and then three at completion of two engine charging
rate. Speeds made by ship in China Sea weather as follows:

With sea:
2 engines - 11.5 knots
3 engines - 13.5 knots
4 engines - 14.5 knots.

Against sea: - All two knots lower.

Also due to sea periscope observations had to be made at 2/3 speed
with visibility very limited due to continual breaking over of waves.
Ran deep mostly and trusted to sound believing it to have a greater
range than periscope. Ship surfacing very badly listing heavily to
port.

28 December 1941 - China Sea.

As before. Dived 0650, course 285° T. Believed advisable to
steer to northward in expectation of southerly set indicated by chart.
Surfaced 1925.
No position obtained this day due clouds. 1936 c/c to 300° T
to give Macclesfield bank wide berth. Used two engine speed as due
to rough sea had fear of taking water down main induction. Wind and
sea from north.

-4-
[HANDWRITTEN: 653]

— page 14 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) to
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT

29 December 1941 - China Sea.

As before. Obtained Fix.0248 Lat. 18-18 N, Long 115-06 E.
0718 Dived to 100 feet. c/c to 270° T.
1850 Sound reported noise similar to supersonics. Had just taken
observation and had seen nothing. Sonar crews were finally reported which
maintained practically a constant relative bearing despite change of
course by ship. It was too dark by then to investigate. Rigged for
depth charge but nothing developed. Believed contact was probably
false. Surfaced 2110 and continued course.
No fix. Received CSAF relative to shift of base to Port Darwin.
Began to be concerned about battery water when No.2 main engine seized
piston around midnight. No battery water made. Air conditioning con-
densate was salty due to spray. No fix.

30 December 1941 - China Sea.

As before. 0030 c/c to 255° T.
0720 Dived to 100 feet.
During day considered advisability of discontinuing patrol due
shortage of battery water. Factors considered were as follows:

The importance of patrol.
On hand 490 gallons.
Immediate battery needs 200 gallons.
No. 2 main engine out of commission though repairs would be com-
pleted. A piston seizure on this engine was a surprise as it was fully
modernized and had given dependable service. Was another basic defect
in the new type?
The nature of the patrol area with the excellent possibility of
night dives making water making unlikely.
The distance to base.

After due consideration it was decided ship should retire to
southward. This was a very hard decision to make but seemed the
only one under the circumstances.
Every effort had been made to conserve battery water since com-
mencement of patrol. Speed submerged was 1/3 on one shaft except for
observations. Ventilation was reduced to minimum. Finishing rate was
only 1 hour 40 minutes. Ship had been ventilated inboard two nights
attempting to clear up air conditioning condensate. Some water - 25
gallons had been obtained but it turned permanently salty again and
could not be depended upon. We had conserved in every way possible
and were still out on a limb.

-5-
[HANDWRITTEN: 654]

— page 15 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) to
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT

30 December 1941 (Cont'd)

The bold way was to proceed, the discreet to retire south. This
Commanding Officer, myself, being ever given to conservative judgment
decided on retirement via south of Paracels. It was believed that by
going south of the reefs the ship would be in a better position to more
quickly take up a new area if water situation were brought under control.
Course was changed to 215° T and message 301730 prepared and sent during
night.

2001 Surfaced and set course 215° T.

2010 Fix Lat 18-10-04 N.
Long 111-13-00 E.

No. 2 main engine back in commission at 2358.

31 December 1941 - China Sea.

As before. 0525 No.2 main engine again out of commission due to
bad valves.

0007 c/c to 187° T.

0705 Quick dive to 100 feet. Visibility during this dive generally.
poor with frequent rain squalls.

1630 c/c to 150° T.

2000 Surfaced.

2010 fix. Lat. 15-56-00 N
Long. 110-55-00 E.

This fix indicated a set of 2 knots to northward. Ship made zero
progress during day.

2125 c/c to 180° T to pass six miles to west of Triton Islands.

2250 c/c to 110° T heading in direction of Lubang Island.

1 January 1942 - China Sea.

As Before.

0667 Made quick dive to 100 feet. Observations during dive diffi-
cult due to sea and rain.
-6- [HANDWRITTEN: 655]

— page 16 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT

1 January 1942 (Cont'd)

1950 Surfaced.

2000 Fix. Lat 14-53-00 N.
          Long 110-50-00 E.

2 January 1942 - China Sea.

As before.

0646 Made quick dive. Observations as on previous day.

1945 Surfaced.

2250 Fix. Lat. 13-48-00 N.
          Long 115-34-30 E.

Battery water had been made this night and on previous and sit-
uation seemed to be satisfactory. [CROSSED OUT: Accordingly sent 021400 to CASF]
reporting this fact.

3 January 1942 - China Sea.

As before.

0646 Made quick dive. Observations as before.

1943 Surfaced.

1951 C/c to 090° T and ran at slow speed expecting orders.

2035 Fix. Lat 13-07-00 N.
          Long 117-23-00 E.

4 January 1942 - China Sea.

As before.

0400 [CROSSED OUT: received orders CSAF to take patrol area off Cape Padaran.]
C/c to 265° T.

-7-
[HANDWRITTEN: 656]

— page 17 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

C O N F I D E N T I A L
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

4 January 1942 - (Cont'd)

0641 Made quick dive.

1938 Surfaced.

1944 C/c to 270° T.

No. fix.

5 January 1942 - China Sea.

As before.

0540 Fix. Lat 12-50-00 N.
Long 115-21-00 E.

0657 Dived. Observations as before.

1947 Surfaced.

Attempted to send message relative to time of arrival on station
and provisions on board. Due transmitter trouble message not sent.
Figured to arrived on station about 2000 sixth.

6 January 1942 - China Sea.

As before.

Obtained one moon sight which gave longitude. Ship had made
exceptional speed 182 miles in 24 hours period.

0720 Dived. Observations as before.

0755 C/c to 210° T and stood down toward center of area.

0800 Position. Lat. 12-50-00 N D.R.
Long 111-56-00 E Observation.

Southerly set expected during past two days was not experienced.
It was expected that ship would enter northern end of area at 2200
but did not until three hours later.

Overhauled transmitter during day and got back to working condi-
tion. Prepared message never sent.

-8-
[HANDWRITTEN: 657]

— page 18 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

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

WAR PATROL REPORT

6 January 1942 (Cont'd)

    1953 Surfaced.

    2350 Fix by moonlight Lat 12-17-30 N.
                            Long 112-28-00 E.

    Fix indicated northerly set during day.

7 January 1942 - Off Cape Padaran.

    As before.

    0100 Entered area to westward of center. Decided to remain
    to westward and pass down to southern part of area believing that
    traffic was more likely to be encountered there.

    0703 Dived. Patrolled area on 210 generally at 100 feet with
    frequent exposures. Sky overcast and sea rough.

    2000 Surfaced.

    No sights due overcast rainy weather. Patrolled area on 120°
    and reverse attempting to run across expected traffic lane. No luck.
    Visibility very bad.

    Sent message 071200 to COMF relative to necessity of leaving
    area on 9th.

8 January 1942 - Off Cape Padaran

    As before. Sky overcast with rain. Visibility very poor.

    Received COMF 67 directing this vessel to remain in westward
    part of area until further orders. Twenty days provisions with full
    ration on board.

    Stood over to westward to within 20 miles of border.

    0709 Dived and patrolled on various courses. Visibility with
    scope not too good.

    2000 Surfaced.

-9-
[HANDWRITTEN: 658]

— page 19 —
D

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

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

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

8 January 1942 - Cont'd

Seas rough, visibility poor. Stopped and listed for two hours
until it improved and then took up patrol on 120 and 300.

No sights this day.

9 January 1942 - Off Cape Padaran.

As before.

0700 Dived. During day sea moderated and visibility improved.
Patrolled on various courses.

2005 Surfaced and resumed patrol.

Fix at surfacing position (two star) Lat 11-06-00 N
Long 110-28-00 E

10 January 1942 - Off Cape Padaran.

As before. Sea moderate.

0200 Fix. Lat 11-15-00 N.
Long 111-13-30 E.

0707 Dived.

2015 Surfaced. Decided to stand up toward north west corner
of lane as southwest and center seemed devoid of traffic. Accordingly
during night made thirty miles good to northward while patrolling
across lane.

11 January 1942 - Off Cape Padaran.

As before. Sea moderate.

At 0520 while on course 030 sighted north bound large transport
bearing 090° T, distance 4 - 5 miles, speed 15 knots or more. A heavy
cloud bank with a low moon had made visibility from 090° T to 180° T
very poor for the preceding hour. Nothing could have been seen against
the background but the ship was sighted immediately on clearing it.
She was northbound having passed and overtaken us. Though attack sur-
faced or submerged was impossible dived because of the possibility of
more targets in same lane and to escape detection. It was felt that

-10-
[HANDWRITTEN: 659]

— page 20 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

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

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

11 January 1942 - Cont'd

traffic lane had finally been found and it was not desired to get it
shifted due to rash action. Stood over to track followed by enemy
vessel and patrolled close to it for the remainder of the day going
deep at intervals. Sea was quite moderate during morning and depth
control at slow speed was practicable. In afternoon rough again.
At 1845 returned to deep depth and took time out for discussion of
general situation and condition of ship. On returning to periscope
depth at 1945 sighted large cargo ship bearing 060° T, distance 4000
yards, course north. This ship had apparently came up and passed
not over 1500 yards abeam and yet had not been heard by sound. A
heart breaker because had we been up an unmissable shot would have
been offered. 2015 Surfaced. Feeling certain that the traffic lane
had been found decided to remain in that vicinity. Hauled off to
eastward until two engine part of charge was finished and then re-
turned to spot and patrolled in that vicinity. Sent PORPOISE 111338
to CSAF in answer to his Serials 80 and 81.

12 January 1942 - Off Cape Padaran.

As before. Weather back again to the usual 4 - 5 wind. Patrolling
across and along supposed traffic lane.

0700 Dived and commenced patrol of area across traffic lane.
Stayed at periscope depth constantly despite rough sea which made
depth control difficult and limited visibility. Tried C.P.O.'s diving
with officer in conning tower at scope. Worked well enough until 1200
when seas got too large. Returned to 100 feet to adjust trim on two
occasions.

2016 Surfaced and resumed patrol of area.

Fix at surfacing Lat 11-32-30 N
Long 110-04-00 E.

Received CSAF 88 directing discontinuance of patrol and at 2121
set course 180° T. It was decided to stand down the traffic lane
during the night and during submergence the following day in order to
intercept any possible traffic following old route Singapore to
Hongkong.

-11-
[HANDWRITTEN: 660]

— page 21 —
ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942

CONFIDENTIAL

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

13 January 1942 - South China Sea.

As before.

0230 Set course 210° T.

0720 Dived.

2012 Surfaced. Fix at surfacing Lat 09-23-00 N
Long 109-40-30 E

2024 Set course 129° T enroute passage between Prince of Wales
and Rifleman Banks.

14 January 1942 - West Dangerous Ground.

As before.

0435 C/c to 180 to pass between banks.

0712 Dived.

1810 Due to clouding appearance of water c/c to 180° T. This
cloudy condition was to continue until clear of Balaboc Straights.

1954 Surfaced. Obtained good fix and set course 080 to pass
between Royal Charlotte and Swallow Banks.

Sea as on previous days.

15 January 1942 - South Dangerous Ground.

As before. Rain and overcast skies during night. No stars in
morning.

0713 Dived and set course 105 to pass midway between banks.

1945 Surfaced. Skies overcast but managed to get a few star
sights. Kept fathometer going. No recorded soundings on chart to
help guide.

-12-
[HANDWRITTEN: 661]

— page 22 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

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

WAR PATROL REPORT

15 January 1942 - Cont'd

2138 Stars showed vessel had been set on Dangerous Ground.
C/c to 180° T and slowed to 10 knots. 2145 Sighted long line of
breakers ahead. Stopped then went ahead hard left and set course
to westward to clear. Fathometer readings indicated bank very sharp.
Luckily bank was sighted during a spell of clear weather. Set course
220 until 2400.

A set of 328 drift 1.6 knots for 24 hours had put us on Dangerous
Ground. Lost 100 miles due to it.

16 January 1942 - South Dangerous Ground.

As before. Seas rough. Sky overcast with occasional rain. Wind
N.E. 4.

0000 C/c to 180

0110 C/c to 107 to pass between Swallow and Royal Charlotte Reefs.
Unpleasant job considering past experience but 0630 fix showed we had
made it.

0659 Dived and took course 085.

1955 Surfaced. Obtained excellent fix and set course 063 at
speed to be about 10 miles off Balaboc Island at daybreak.

Weather for a change good.

17 January 1942 - Balaboc Strait.

As before. Weather bad again for a time.

0645 Sighted Balaboc Island bearing 065. C/c to 080.

0703 Dived. Currents were such in Balaboc Straits that a total
of 11 miles only was made good during day about half of normal.

1939 Surfaced.and set course to pass through. Sky clear,sea
smooth, visibility fair. Comiran Light was burning - a big help.

-13-
[HANDWRITTEN: 662]

— page 23 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT

17 January 1942 - Cont'd

2153 Cleared Comiran Light and set course 074 to pass Bancaran
Island abeam to starboard.

2107 Received OSAF serial 18 relative to patrol of line to Davao.

18 January 1942 - Sulu Sea.

As before. Occasional rain. Sky overcast.

0434 Bancoran Island in sight, 3 miles abeam to starboard.

0445 C/c to 153 T.

0542 Dived on 153. No stars available.

1932 Surfaced and set course at best speed for Pearl Bank. Good fix
obtained and headed for 485 fathom spot north of Pearl Bank. Sky Clear
Visibility fair. Sea moderate.

2319 C/c to 135° T.

19 January 1942 - Sulu Sea to Celebes Sea.

As before. Took various courses for fathometer navigation
through Pearl Bank, speed 15.

0136 Through passage no land having been sighted. Took speed
16 knots in order to attempt clear Sibutu Passage by daylight. Current
for once favorable.

0418 Bongao abeam to port. Sibutu Hill dead ahead. Both seen
plainly.

0431 C/c to 155.

0537 Set course 140° T for point designated.

0638 Dived clear of Sibutu Passage. The best run yet.

1500 At point set course 085° T heading for passage between
Kawio and Sarangani Islands.

-14-
[HANDWRITTEN: 663]

— page 24 —
ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

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

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT
---

19 January 1942 - Cont'd

    1950 Surfaced and set best speed. Sea smooth with sky overcast.

    2150 Received CSAF serial 27 relative to patrol of Davao - Makassar
    line.

    2400 C/c to 160° T and headed for a point on the Davao - Makassar
    line which would put this vessel one days run from Makassar Strait on
    surfacing following day ready to move into patrol area. It was appar-
    ent that CSAF considered this vessel further along in passage. Due to
    affair on Dangerous Ground and bad weather in the China Seas was actually
    100 miles or one day behind schedule. Had intended by increased speed
    to make up part of this in Darwin run.

20 January 1942 - Celebes Sea.

    As before. Visibility turned very bad with heavy almost continuous
    rain after 0200.

    0630 Dived in close vicinity of Davao - Makassar line and commenced
    patrol submerged.

    No fix obtained prior diving. Weather cleared during dive.

    1930 Surfaced and set course 240 enroute Makassar Strait.

    1955 Sighted unidentified SS or DD,more probably the former bearing
    260 distance 6000 yards. Picked up to southward of moon glare. Craft
    was on course N.E. at high speed. Made quick dive and set course 270.
    Unable to hear. Tried periscope but moon was not bright enough to see.

    2056 Surfaced and continued course.

    2232 C/c to 233.

    [STRUCK THROUGH: 2117 Received serial 32 relative to STURGEON taking PORPOISE area.]

-15-
[HANDWRITTEN: 664]

— page 25 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT

21 January 1942 - Celebes Sea

As before. Sky overcast, visibility very poor.

No morning fix obtained.

0630 Dived.

1935 Surfaced in vicinity of Strooman Kaap. Land had been in
sight during afternoon but could not be distinguished because of
heavy clouds and rain over it. No fix obtained by stars.

As serials 27 and 32 were in conflict decided to patrol north
of eastern part of lane on the Davao - Makassar line ready to move
over if ordered. Set course 245.

Visibility poor with heavy clouds on horizon rendering it diffi-
cult to see.

~~2321 Received CSAE serial 41 directing this vessel to take area~~
~~assigned serial 27.~~

22 January 1942 - Makassar Straits.

As before.

0105 C/c to 210 standing into assigned area.

0312 Entered center of assigned area and commenced patrol
parallel to lane boundary. As no fix had been obtained for two days
and bad visibility had prevented fixes from land was doubtful of posi-
tion. Due to discoloration of water and driftwood believed ship north
and east of position but having been fooled by currents before was
disinclined to act radically on this assumption.

0614 Dived. Sky was heavily clouded and decided no use to wait
for star sights but to dive early to avoid any air patrol. Set course
270. Visibility through periscope good. It was the banks on horizon
that made visibility at night very bad. This condition was general
throughout area. Ran continuously at periscope depth as it was be-
lieved no aircraft could see hull in water conditions as they existed.

-16-
[HANDWRITTEN: 665]

— page 26 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
_WAR PATROL REPORT_

_22 January 1942 - Cont'd_

1019 Sighted smoke of six vessels dead ahead and on either bow.
Could not close for attack but was able finally to make out tops and
tops of masts and smoke to indicate presence of about ten vessels.
Nearest approach about 20,000 yards.

1119 and 1225 At 48-50 feet depth broadcasted contact on vertical
antenna on two frequencies. No receipt received but transmitter putting
out at full power. Sea glassy smooth.

Kept sharp lookout for more vessels as did not believe force
sighted was entire outfit. For this reason [HANDWRITTEN: Contact report sent] and receipted for after surfacing.
Fix obtained that night indicated contact was 30 miles north of position
reported.

1934 Surfaced. Obtained fix finally and set course 180 to area
arriving at 2315 where patrol was started.

2328 Received CSAF Serial 52.

2353 C/c to 180 at maximum speed enroute Balikpapan.

_23 January 1942 - Makassar Straits_

As before.

0000 C/c to 220° T. Visibility very bad with cloud banks ob-
scuring horizon. Speed 16 knots.

0627 Dived.

1945 Surfaced and continued at best speed. Fix obtained.

2040 Sighted unidentified SS bearing 260 distance about 4000
yards. Slowed and called by T.B.S. without answer.

2045 Dived. Could not hear on sound gear.

2145 Surfaced and continued course.

-17-
[STAMP: 666]

— page 27 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942. U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT

23 January 1942 - Cont'd

2307 Sighted blast as from explosion bearing 220° T. At this
time assumed that the Japs had landed at Balikpapan and the Dutch
had fired oil wells. As bearing did not check with own position
started fathometer and directed Navigator to check position. Fathometer
dropped to 200 fathoms and then abruptly to 15 at 2347. C/c to 090° T.
Navigator had plotted position incorrectly.

24 January 1942 - Off Balikpapan.

As before. Stood out from shoal water for fifteen miles then
resumed course keeping burning ship on starboard bow believing it to
be Balikpapan. Used fathometer.

0410 Fire identified positively as ship. The light from it was
such that it was necessary to give it a five mile berth as frequent
explosions lighted up the sky like day.

Decided to remain up for star sights as still uncertain of posi-
tion. Course 270.

At 0626 as sky was getting light in east sighted small cruiser
bearing 110° T, course north at slow speed, range 4000 yards. Appear-
ance indicated that it was waiting for moths attracted by the flame.
As too light for night attack dived to 100 feet intending to come up
in five-ten minutes. Cruiser had however either seen us prior to
diving or while diving as sound heard screws start up at high speed.
From bearings obtained cruiser apparently turned 180° at high speed
opened range and stood off at high speed. Turned toward for sound
shot but no use. 15 depth charges as from a "Y" gun heard at about
two mile range.then heard nothing more. Not in sight at periscope
depth. Depth charges seemed to be dropped at random during day. Could
see nothing.

As had no information of location of enemy stood in toward lightship.

1240 Sighted schooner standing out. Went to 100 feet as it passed
close aboard.

-18-
[HANDWRITTEN: 667]

— page 28 —
ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

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

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

24 January 1942 - Cont'd

2000 Surfaced and continued on in at slow speed charging.

Received serial 62 giving location of enemy force.

2327 Sighted vessel identified as submarine. Maneuvered to avoid.

25 January 1942 - Off Balikpapan.

As before standing in to enemy area. Visibility in spots very
bad due to clouds and smoke of burning vessels. Patrolling a five
mile square eight miles to south of reported enemy position with in-
tention of attempting break through of patrol line at about 0430-0530.

0220 Sighted what appeared to be a large vessel passing through
glow of fire to northward. At this time PORPOISE on course 090 bear-
ing of ship about 330, distance approximately 4000 yards, course west.
Commanding Officer who had been attempting to rest eyes by lying
down on bridge was bleary eyed and could not see target for some time
but did see in time to also believe a large ship. Went to battle
stations. 0227 Sighted what appeared to be a small vessel heading
toward. Searchlight from same directed swung ahead of us over then
astern. Made quick dive to 100 feet then on to 160 feet as supersonic
search started. One depth charge dropped at respectable range. Search
started by one short run then. We were constantly being hit by beam
but due to closeness of bottom it is doubtful if enemy realized this
or it was merely rebound from bottom striking us. From this contact
it was believed that a push in had started. Decided to remain down
circling in that spot. Signs of wreckage and oil in locality indicated
previous action somewhere around.

At daylight came up to periscope depth. Nothing in sight except
smoke to northward. Sky cloudy.

0750 Sighted DD patrolling to eastward. This can patrolled on
an east west line about two miles north of PORPOISE. Nothing to
southward. Decided that possibly no push in was in progress and that
enemy force was still to north. State of battery with eighteen hour
dive precluded day attack in that direction.

-19-
[HANDWRITTEN: 668]

— page 29 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

C O N F I D E N T I A L
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

25 January 1942 - Cont'd

Heard depth charges at intervals throughout day. At 1307 saw
destroyer plant about eight of them about 5000 yards from this vessel.
Don't know for whom intended.

1538 Sighted low flying cruiser plane bearing 300° T, distance
1500 yards. Went to 100 feet as precautionary measure but believe
in this water hull is not visible at periscope depth.

1600 Stood off to south to clear patrol prior to surfacing and
charging.

1957 Surfaced and stood off to south and east for charging and
a little rest if possible.

2142 Received Serial relative to enemy position.

26 January 1942 - Off Balikpapan.

As before. Sea smooth. Moon out until 0100. After about 0200
sky to northward and east very dark due to smoke and the usual low
clouds. Visibility fair to south, poor to west. Decided to try
another break through at about 0615 at that time expecting to be
up to or north of DD line. It was intended to go to 140 feet and
slip through.

0539 Light reported bearing about 050.(Ship's course 000°).
Quick glance indicated that light may have been a searchlight with
shutter mostly closed, to avoid radar detection. Though patrol
seems scanty here as at Lingayen it seems my fate to hit them on
the nose at every attempt.

0555 C/c to 035° for enemy position. Sighted DD's to northward
and westward during day.

1328 C/c to 180 to head out. Apparently we were too far out from
the beach though well to northward.

As on previous days depth charges heard at intervals.

2000 Surfaced and stood to eastward for charging.

2138 Received CSAE serial 80. Climbed to eastward to send message.

-20-
[HANDWRITTEN: 669]

— page 30 —
ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

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

27 January 1942 - Off Balikpapan.

As before. 0100 having reached a point about sixty miles from
light sent PORPOISE 261611. Receipt obtained 1330 C/C to 060.
At 0205 sighted unidentified ship bearing 060° T approximately.
Slowed to observe and then attacked. Details under "Attacks Made".
After attack c/c to 180° T. At 0215 passed wreck of burning tanker
close aboard. Only stern showing. Reconnoitered vicinity for more
ships and then at 0350 c/c to 315° T heading for point thirty miles
east of Balikpapan light.

0624 Dived on course 315.

0730 Sighted smoke as of two vessels to eastward. Considered
that convoy was enroute in. Observed carefully for some time and
had no appreciable bearing change. At 0815 destroyer sighted to west-
ward heading east. This confirmed my opinion that convoy was about
to enter with DD going out as escort. DD passed about 1500 yards
to northward. Did not close convoy at this point as it was desired
to conduct attack inside 100 fathom curve.

0900 Sighted tops of one ship heading directly toward this vessel.
Turned and commenced attack. Details under "Attacks Made".

1048 DD search for us started. Pinging kept up until about
1150. No screws were heard but sound had proved inability to hear
unless very clear. Supersonic of enemy and ourselves seem useless
in this shallow cloudy water. Was rigged for depth charge durings
search but not during own attack. Made good various courses during
DD attack then stood off to southwest at 1132. Continued run at
periscope depth most of day but sighted nothing as was not surprising
as attack had been observed. In later afternoon sea became smooth
with bright sun. Went to 100 feet between observations.

2003 Surfaced and headed east to start charge.

2128 Received ~CSAE serial (271038) ordering return.~

2200 C/c to 126° T heading for Cape William at 13 knots
increasing to 15 knots at securing of one engine from charge.

-21-
[HANDWRITTEN: 670]
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

— page 31 —
ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1941
C O N F I D E N T I A L

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

28 January 1942 - Off Cape Mandar enroute Base.

As before enroute base. Weather clear with bright moon.

0020 Sighted ship identified as submarine bearing 240. Lookout
picked it up. Figured it was probably friendly, possibly Officer
of the Deck c/c to 060 to present small silhouette during examination.

0030 Resumed course satisfied as to identity of ship sighted.
Shortly after this again passed wreck of tanker close aboard. Very
low in the water and a menace.

Sent 271650 to CSAF reporting expected time of arrival with
attacks made.

0341 C/c to 176° T and stood down about ten miles west of Cape
Cilliam.

0630 Dived. Land in sight to eastward at daylight and fix
obtained. Frequent periscope observations throughout day.

0932 c/c to 190° T

2000 Surfaced and set course 230 heading for passage between
Kalu Kalukuang and Sibaru Islands. During passage between these
islands compelled to slow down due to soundings of chart not checking
with those of fathometer. Fathometer checked with QB and found
correct.

29 January 1942

0652 Dived souteast of Sibaru Island course 205.

2001 Surfaced and set course 201 to pass Sekala Islands five
miles to westward.

During day and night run conducted fathometer survey of passage.

-22-
[HANDWRITTEN: 671]

— page 32 —
ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942
C O N F I D E N T I A L

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

30 January 1942 - Madura Straits
As before enroute base.
0305 Passed Sekala Island abeam to starboard.
0500 C/c to 265
0640 Dived south of Sepanjang Island.
2005 Surfaced and set course for meeting point with patrol ten
miles west of Meinderts Reef Light.

31 January 1942 - Madura Straits
As before enroute base.
0500 Off meeting place
0637 Contacted patrol and followed toward mine field entrance
0811 Passed through mine field and proceeded independently via
designated route to Surabaya. Picked up Pilot at light vessel.
1438 Anchored off Naval Base.
1525 Moored to west side of Holland Pier.

[UNCLEAR: -23-]
[HANDWRITTEN: 672]

— page 33 —
[HANDWRITTEN: Porpoise]
[HANDWRITTEN: #1]

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-2
of Feb 3, 1942

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

B. Weather:

22 December 1941
    Sea smooth. Visibility good.

23 December 1941:
    Swells from N.E. with no whitecaps.

24 December 1941:
    Sea smooth, bright sunshine.

25 December 1941:
    Sea smooth, bright sunshine.

26 December 1941:
    Sea smooth, bright sunshine.

27 December 1941:
    Morning sea smooth. Night, large swells with few whitecaps.
    Sea made up as night progressed.

28 December 1941 - 15 January 1942:
    Seas very rough. Visibility good at night. North of Paracels and
    around Hainan air and water temperature around 70 and 80. Bridge un-
    comfortable due temperature, spray and lack of clothing. During dive
    very nice. On the majority of days clouds formed in the morning and
    evening rendering obtaining of star sights difficult. From 22 December
    to 14 January star sights by moonlight supplied the only means of getting
    a fix. Resulting fixes were excellent.

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
WAR PATROL REPORT

-1-

[HANDWRITTEN: 673]

— page 34 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-2
of Feb 3, 1942

U. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT

B. Weather:

15 January - 31 January 1942: - Celebes and Makassar

This entire area characterized by general good visibility in the
daytime but subject to rain squalls and heavy cloud banks which formed
on the horizon reducing visibility to a very great extent in certain
directions. On windless nights a haze of black formed all around the
horizon. Wind in this area was force zero to three. At no time did
an appreciable sea build up.

-2-
[HANDWRITTEN: 674]

— page 35 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C. Tidal information(if abnormal)

In area off Lingayen Gulf the set was 350 at 1 knot. A Southward Set
at 0.2 knot was experienced off the coast of Boliano.

China Sea North of the Reefs no set was experienced despite all advice
to the contrary. Abour one fourth knot to Southwest South of the reefs.
Just West of the Paraceles(30 Miles) a two knot Northerly set was experienc-
ed.

Off China coast the current up to about eighty miles off shore set to
Southward. Farther out the set is Northerly. Inshore water temperature is a
about eighty. Offshore eightyfive. By keeping track of temperature a fair-
ly good guide can be obatined.

In making passage from the China sea area to the Southward of Dange-
rous grounds for Balabac Straits various currents are experienced. In
generall all currents set to Westward until Past line of Swallow Reef-
Royal Charlotte reef when current sets to Southward. Currents experienced
as follows: Vicinity Ladd reef 291 at one knot.
Eastward Alexander and Danger Banks 270 at three quarters
knots.
South of Rifleman Bank to Western Dangerous grounds 328 at
1.6 knot.
Eastward Swallow reef to Balabac, during day submerged 109
at three quarters knot.
While on surface South and southwestward of Palawan Channel
to Balabac Strait 245 at 1.0 knot.
While submerged to Southwestward of Balabac Light, Inside
100 fathom curve a considerable variation from 0.5 to 2.0
knots was experienced, setting generally West and Southwest
apparently due to tides.
This set was to West and Southwest apparently due to tides.

In the Sulu Sea a set was experienced as follows: 171 at 1.0 knot
until in the vicinity of Pearl Bank light when current increased to
approximately 2.0 knots and followed the general direction of deep water.

In passage from Pearl Bank to Sibutu a Southwesterly set was esti-
mated at about three quarters knot.

In Makassar Strait, Northern Part a current of about 1.0 knot set-
ting North was experienced.

From Cape Mandar to Lima Islands a current estimated at 1.0 knot
setting Northeast was experienced.

In the vicinity of Cape Mandar the current sets generally North at
about one knot.

In the Flores Sea from Separdjang to Mientres reef the current sets
Eastward at slightly over one knot.

[HANDWRITTEN: EE 675]
[HANDWRITTEN: 675]

— page 36 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

D. Navigational Aids;

Comiran Island Light. Burning.
Fathometer invaluable.
Charts of N.E.I. waters very poor as regards soundings.
In crossing from Cape Mandar to Lima Islands there is an
even depth of 1200 fathoms until about 40 miles Northward of Kalu
Kalukuang Island when soundings decrease gradually and safe passage
can be taken by turning south and identifying longitude by line of
variable soundings on chart 3045 (Note in making this passage a
current of 1.0 knot setting to the Eastward was experienced) After
identifying longitude set course to South ward of Sibaru Island.
Soundings will decrease gradually but good water of around 300
fathoms will be found throughout passage on course 205

[HANDWRITTEN: EE 676]

[HANDWRITTEN: 676]

— page 37 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

C O N F I D E N T I A L
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

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

23 December 1941

1453 One Jap DD bearing 020° T, 5000 yards, course west, speed
about 5 knots. Later headed toward and attacked. Contact 15 miles
342 from Cape Bolinao.

25 December 1941

0108 Two Jap DD's bearing 165° true and 210° True, apparently
stopped, distance 1000 and 5500 yards respectively. One bearing
165° T attacked plenty hard. Lat 16-47-00 N, Long 120-02-30 E.

11 January 1942

0520 One large AP bearing 090° T, distance 4-5 miles, course
north, speed 15 knots or more. Range 8000 yards. Lat 11-45-00 N,
Long 110-25-00 E.

1945 One large freighter bearing 060° T, distance 2 miles, course
north, speed 10-12, range 4000 yards. Lat 11-43-00 N, Long 110-25-00 E

20 January 1942

1955 One SS or DD more probably the former course N.E., speed 15.
Range 6000 yards. Lat 2-42-00 N, Long 121-25-00 E.

22 January 1942

1019 Off Cape Mangkalibat. Tops and smoke to indicate presence of
about ten vessels. Course south, speed 10-12, range 20,000 yards.
Lat. 01-16-00 N, Long 119-10-00 E.

23 January 1942

2040 Sighted unidentified SS on easterly course.at slow speed,
range 4000 yards. Called by T.B.S. but could get no answer. Lat
0-15-00 Long 118-25-00 S (App.)

-1-
[HANDWRITTEN: 677]

— page 38 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

C O N F I D E N T I A L
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

E.

24 January 1942.

0626 Sighted small cruiser on northerly course at slow speed.
Range 4000 yards. Lat 1-21 S. Long 117-57 E (App.)

1240 Sighted schooner standing out from Balikpapan on southeast
course. Range 7000 at sighting. Passed close aboard. Lat 1-19 S,
Long 117-40 E (App.)

25 January 1942

0220 One large vessel type not known, course 270, speed 15.
One DD in company which sighted this vessel. Ranges about 4000
and 2000 respectively. Visibility very spotty in their direction.
Position was believed to be eight miles south of enemy reported
position.

During daylight had DD's of patrol line in sight continually.

26 January 1942

0539 Light believed from closed searchlight of unidentified
ship. Visibility very bad. Location along patrol line.

During daylight numerous DD's of patrol line and smoke of other
vessels.

27 January 1942

0205 Unidentified vessel probably DD or small cruiser. Range
2000 - 3000 yards. Course 135, speed 10. Attacked. Lat. 1-36 S,
Long 117-50

0730 Smoke of two vessels. At 0900 identified as three cargo
type vessels enroute Balikpapan. Had escort of four DD and joined
by one more DD from Balikpapan. Point of contact 30 miles east of
Balikpapan Light. Attacked.

28 January 1942

0020 Small vessel believed to be SS on north or northwest course
at slow speed, range 300 - 4000 yards. Believe this to be S-38. Lat
1-55 S, Long 117-55.

-2-
[HANDWRITTEN: 678]

— page 39 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-2
of Feb 3, 1942

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
WAR PATROL REPORT

F. Description of all aircraft sighted:

25 January 1942:
Low wing monoplane with pontoon. Painted dark color. No
insignia noted.

-1-
[HANDWRITTEN: 679]

— page 40 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

C O N F I D E N T I A L U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

WAR PATROL REPORT

G. Particulars of any attacks made, including number of torpedoes
fired, method of firing, point of aim, track angle, enemy course
and speed at time of firing, spread used, if any, hits, results:

27 January 1942

0205 While on course 000, speed 12, Officer of the Deck sighted
ship bearing 060° T approximately. Commanding Officer at time was
asleep on grating in pilot house and had difficulty in adjusting him-
self due to general fatigue. Proper course of action should have been
to have slowed, run awash, and carefully but quickly examined target.
At suggestion of officer turned away for stern tube shot, an action
Commanding Officer would never have taken if in full possession of his
mental facilities. One tube forward and one aft had been fully ready
for firing throughout night. Battle stations had been fully manned
for firing. Commanding Officer turned to take stern tube shot,
adjusted ship's course for proper estimated periscope angle and fired.

Estimated range - 2000 - 3000 yards.
Estimated speed - 10-12 knots
Estimated course 135
Estimated track - 65 starboard
Torpedo depth - 10 feet.
Spread - none
Type target - DD or small cruiser.

It was the intention to fire but one torpedo but through error
two were actually fired due to no feel to ship at firing of first and
the difficulties of communication between bridge and conning tower.
Commanding Officer called "fire" and feeling no jar asked conning
tower if tube was ready. They having fired and assuming other tube
was referenced to said "no" thereupon Commanding Officer again called
fire and second torpedo was fired. No hits were obtained. We haven't
sufficient experience in night firing nor for that matter in judging
range, course, etc., at night.

The Commanding Officer has expressly forbidden all officers
from making any suggestions to him as regards course of action to
be taken in a situation as above as the power of suggestion on a
freshly awakened groggy officer is too great. In imminent emergencies
suggestions are desired and only then.

-1- [HANDWRITTEN: EE 680]

— page 41 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

<u>C O N F I D E N T I A L</u>

U. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

<u>WAR PATROL REPORT</u>

<u>G.</u>
27 January 1942.

0730 Sighted smoke bearing 100° T. Course this vessel 315, speed
2 knots. 0815 Sighted DD standing out from Balikpapan in direction of
smoke. Passed about 1500 yards abeam. Correctly diagnosed situation
as convoy standing in with escort standing out to meet. Decided to
remain inside 100 fathom curve for attack. Sea smooth, no white re

0900 Saw tops of two vessels, angle on bow zero, range over 20,000
yards. Turned toward for attack. As attack developed formation found
to consist of three large vessels of merchant class and five DD's.
Merchant vessels in column about 1000 yards distance and zigzagged
by column movements. Two DD's about 1000 yards on either side and
1000 yards ahead of leader. One DD leading column. Two more DD's
one on either side 1000 yards from leading merchant vessel. Stood
down through center of formation. Went deep to pass through leading
screens both of whom were searching. As angle on bow was 15 port
c/c to 000° T. Sound could hear nothing. Came up for look. Was
just astern of leading screens, range to leading target 3500 yards,
angle on bow zero. Went down again to pass second screen line in-
tending to get second or third target. Came up for look and found
self in clear firing position for second or third target stern tube
on. Column having zigged left while under running screens. Took
time to estimate course and speed. No possibility during approach
of getting speed in normal way. Used method one ahead and one astern.
to fire at second target by white light method one ahead and one astern.
Up to this point approach had come off well but now blundered in tar-
get selection. Decided to shift to third target as track for second
was over 110 and could take third on 90° track, range 1500 yards in
a minute or two. Shifted to low power took look around and pulled
schoolboy stunt of coming back on wrong target and firing. Realized
blunder and attempted to turn for bow shot at third target but it
was too late. Second target was seen maneuvering to avoid torpedo
(easy with 130 track) and one screen turned toward this vessel. Went
down.

-2-

[HANDWRITTEN: EE 681]

— page 42 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE SERIAL C-1
of Jan 31, 1942.

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

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

WAR PATROL REPORT

G.
--
27 January 1942.

Sound during entire approach was utterly useless. The one
bearing obtained on heavy ship while deep was just enough to delay
the following periscope exposure by about one minute. While it was
the intention to fire by periscope sound bearings would have been a
great help in determining course changes.

Targets were identified in order in column as air tender (this
fellow had catapult with plane in bow), cargo, cargo.

I don't know how but by some means the Commanding Officer must
keep rested so that he can act properly in emergencies.
[HANDWRITTEN: EE 682]

-3-
[HANDWRITTEN: 682]

— page 43 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-2
of Feb 3, 1942

C O N F I D E N T I A L
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
WAR PATROL REPORT

H. Enemy anti-submarine measures and action taken to avoid.

23 and 25 December 1941:

Enemy destroyers patrolled a line from Darigayao Point to Cape
Balinao. Either for purpose of better listening, fuel conservation or
both the patrol was conducted at zero or very low speed. This made
sound gear about useless to detect their presence. The chances of
being picked up on coming up from deep depth at increased speed with
all machinery in operation was therefore increased. This vessel hearing
a screw on 23 December came up quickly to investigate and it was probably
a result of this that it was picked up by a destroyer distance 4000
yards and heading away. Shortly after an observation was taken destroyer
turned and headed toward for attack. On 25 December, a very dark night,
it is believed that a surface contact occurred as enemy was lying at
right angles to PORPOISE course when sighted. He was heard to speed
up as we dived.

Attacks were all conducted at fairly low speed with a turn count of
about 136 - a dull heavy beat. It appears that they cannot hear well
at high speeds. Sound was able to follow them very well even during
dropping of charges. Speed up and stop were easily heard. After each
attack destroyer would stop and listen. Running of a pump would quickly
attract his attention. Running silent is a primary requisite. This
vessel ran at 1/3 on one shaft with all machinery stopped. A steady
course was held until attack started. When he speeded up course was
changed radically to cause a change of true bearing. Attacks came
from any direction. There seemed to be no maneuvering to gain a position.
Once he heard on he came in that direction at slow speed. There was
never any indications of supersonics. In each case it was impossible
to decide whether he broke off attack due to lost contact, lack of
charges or refusal to leave appointed station. Keep deep. The better
placed charges seemed to go off directly overhead.

ATTACKS OFF BALIKPAPAN

In this area enemy seemed to be dropping charges more or less at
random in area. At least single or only two or three charges at a
time were heard off and on during the day and nothing could be seen.

-1-
[HANDWRITTEN: 683]

— page 44 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-2
of Feb 3, 1942
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

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

WAR PATROL REPORT

H. (Cont'd)

ATTACKS OFF BALIKPAPAN (Cont'd)

Enemy used supersonics in this area and probably listening also.
Own sound equipment was useless for picking up screws though it ap-
peared in good condition and operating normally. Foreign matter in
the water is believed to have caused this trouble. Results in shallow
water have been too satisfactory to have been the cause.

Enemy tactics here were defensive to a great extent. DD's will
not leave the patrol line to attack a submarine very far from line
unless submarine gets between them and submarine's objective. In
latter case they hang on. On contact at night DD seemed to drop a
charge or so on contact with SS as though to advise him that a DD
was what he had sighted. Each destroyer handled its own contact.
There was never any indication of a second vessel of patrol line
coming to assist.

The best way to avoid seemed to be:

Listen for his screws and when he speeds up change course
to get the best change of bearing. They seemed not able to follow
this maneuver once they had started in.

Run as silently as possible. This vessel used a one shaft
1/3 speed which was ample for depth control and gave better maneuvering
than a very slow speed on both shafts.

Run pump as little as possible. Trim pump in particular
seemed to be picked up easily by the enemy. When compelled to use
it it is better to run it at short intervals rather than running
steadily until purpose has been served.

[HANDWRITTEN: 684]

— page 45 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
                                SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-2
of Feb 3, 1942                     U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

C O N F I D E N T I A L
                                   WAR PATROL REPORT

I. Major defects and casualties:

    One auxiliary engine out of three out of commission due cracked
    exhaust header and no replacement lines.

    Drain pump usable only on the surface due to pistons being worn
    to such an extent that packing will not hold pressure. No replacement
    pistons on hand.

    Charging line to impulse tanks forward ruptured. While tanks can
    still be charged via by-pass valve the poppet valves are out of com-
    mission.

    Leak in flood water line to starboard crew's W.C. which passes
    through R.F.O. tank 4-C. Wooden plug inserted in outboard end of line
    - but if plug is knocked loose then an oil slick is certain.

                                        -1-
                                                                 [HANDWRITTEN: 685]

— page 46 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE Serial C-2
of Feb 3, 1942
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

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

WAR PATROL REPORT

K. General Comment:

1. GENERAL ORGANIZATION AND TRAINING

The organization, training and routine which had been worked
out during the months prior to opening of hostilities has proved
very sound in practice. Practically no changes were necessary to
smooth out the normal working of the organization.

2. LOOKOUTS

The problem of obtaining good night lookouts has yet to be solved.
The same set of lookouts was used continually and trained in every way
possible to distinguish objects at night. Sighting of land provided
the only means of determining their ability. It is believed that
lack of familiarity with the sight of objects at night plus the rela-
tively poor grade of their binoculars were the two primary reasons for
failure to be of more help. They were at all times keen and alert
and doing their best, but in only two instances were the first to
sight an object at night. All officers and lookouts were given
viosterol in liquid form daily. No opportunity was afforded to de-
termine whether or not this proved of value. Each lookout stood a
maximum of four hours per night split into two watches of two hours
each. They stood no duties while submerged.

3. COMMISSARY

The food was well prepared and the cooks very ingenious in
varying the taste of the same food. An example is "bread" made of
corn meal, hominy grits and chocolate pudding. This vessel left
Manila loaded with dry stores to normal capacity plus additional
stowed throughout the ship. On next cruise more will be carried as
it is the intention to use officer shower and any other available
space into which a box will fit. Due to already overcrowded condi-
tion of torpedo rooms they cannot be used for this purpose. It is
believed that the cruising radius as determined by food can be ex-
tended from 40 days to about 45-50.

-1-
[HANDWRITTEN: 686]

— page 47 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE SERIAL C-2
of Feb 3, 1942
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

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

WAR PATROL REPORT

K. (Cont'd)

4. BATTERY AND FRESH WATER

After difficulty enroute Hainan no further trouble was
experienced with making of either battery or fresh water. This
was due largely to the numerous high speed runs necessary for
changing station. On normal patrol with slow speed and night
diving ship was not self sustaining. Salt water was used for
dish washing and salt water connections were rigged up in crew's
and Officers shower spaces.

5. SOUND GEAR

As mentioned in the narrative sound gear proved practically
useless in the China, Sulu and Celebes seas and in Makassar Straits
except in the cases of high speed targets. The water in these
regions except China sea north of Dangerous Ground was generally
cloudy with particles of seaweed and coral floating in it. This
may have been the cause of the ineffectiveness. Equipment will
be thoroughly checked during upkeep period.

6. COMMUNICATIONS.

System used appeared to be excellent and with exception of
short periods reception was very good.

7. SPEEDS USED

On patrol two engine speed of 10 knots was used to give greater
power in case of attack or necessity of avoiding. In changing
station two engine at cruising power were used until completion of
initial rate of battery charge when speed was increased to three
engines at cruising speed. Four engines were used when rapid change
of station was necessary.

-2-

[HANDWRITTEN: 687]

— page 48 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

ENCLOSURE (A) TO
PORPOISE SERIAL C-2
of Feb 3, 1942

C O N F I D E N T I A L
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
WAR PATROL REPORT

K. (Cont'd)

8. NAVIGATION.

This proved more difficult than anticipated due mainly to
unexpected currents and the lack of soundings on charts out-
side Philippine Area. Moonlight sights were of great value
and from them excellent fixes were obtained. Time ticks were
hard to get but thanks to one good chronometer G.C.T. was known
within a few seconds at all times. A time tick on the baker
schedule would not be amiss. In order to get them now we must
tune off baker schedule frequency and run the chance of missing
messages and in being improperly tuned on returning to schedules.

9. MORALE.

Crew remained in good health and good spirits throughout the
cruise. No grumbles and complaints were heard.with all hands
going their level best. A hit would have made them jubilant.

-3-
688

— page 49 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

SS172/A9
Serial No.S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

April 15, 1942.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander Submarines, U.S. ASIATIC FLEET.

Subject: Report of Second War Patrol of U.S.S. PORPOISE,
for the period February 9, 1942 to March 30,1942.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report consisting of 18 pages.

1. Enclosure (A) is forwarded herewith.

[STAMP: CLASSIFICATION THIS CORRESPONDENCE]
[STAMP: CHANGED TO] [HANDWRITTEN: Confidential]
[STAMP: AUTHORITY] [HANDWRITTEN: F.L.S.]
[STAMP: DATE] [HANDWRITTEN: 7/7/42]

[SIGNATURE: J. R. MC KNIGHT, Jr.]
J. R. MC KNIGHT, Jr.

[STAMP: 41337 FILMED]

— page 50 —
SS172/A9
Serial No.S-1
S-E-C-R-E-T
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

From: February 9, 1942 to March 30, 1942.

Area: Netherland East Indies.

Zone Time: Kept Minus 7½ on first day then Minus 8 for rest of
patrol.

1. NARRATIVE

FIRST DAY, Monday, February 9, 1942.

At 1625 underway from Naval Base, Surabaya, Java, and proceeded
to sea via the western entrance to MADURA STRAIT. Having cleared the
mine fields at 2010 dropped the escort vessel and set course to the
eastward. My orders were to proceed toward MAKASSAR STRAIT passing
south of AURORA SHOALS.

SECOND DAY, Tuesday, February 10, 1942.

Submerged at 0500 off GREAT SALEMBO ISLAND and surfaced at
1937 having made no contacts. Discovered that air conditioning unit
had no freon. I had not expected to use this unit but did count on
using the gas for replenishing the ice machine.

Set clocks to Zone Minus Eight time which was kept for re-
mainder of the patrol.

THIRD DAY, Wednesday, February 11, 1942.

Submerged at 0515 and surfaced at 1925 after no contact.

FOURTH DAY, Thursday, February 12, 1942.

Submerged at 0515 and surfaced 1918. Nothing.

FIFTH DAY, Friday, February 13, 1942.

Submerged 0524. Surfaced 1915. No contacts. After surfacing
received orders to patrol the approaches to DAVAO. Having anticipated
some such orders I was at this time well to the north of MAKASSAR STRAIT
and had lost no time.

-1-

— page 51 —
SS172/A9
Serial No.S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: S-E-C-R-E-T]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

SIXTH DAY, Saturday, February 14, 1942.
Submerged 0503. Surfaced 1905. No contacts. Off NORTH WATCHER.

SEVENTH DAY, Sunday, February 15, 1942.
Submerged 0507. Surfaced 1828. No contacts.

EIGHTH DAY, Monday, February 16, 1942.
Submerged 0445. Surfaced 1828. No contacts. Being well up
in the northeastern part of CELEBES SEA at this time I expected to be
on the outer edge of my area by dawn and covering the routes from DAVAO
to TARAKAN and MAKASSAR but orders were received to go to the BANDA SEA,
using BANGKA and GREYHOUND STRAITS on the way. At 2207 changed course
to comply.

NINTH DAY, Tuesday, February 17, 1942.
Submerged 0500. Surfaced 1836. No contacts. 2235 sighted what
was thought to be a destroyer off an unnamed islet in south side of
BANGKA STRAIT. Submerged. Investigation showed it to be a rock. Sur-
faced at 2300 and continued through the strait. Used last of freon
gas today. Ice box is beginning to heat up.

Many minor casualties are occurring. Had to repack trim pump
yesterday and today the auxiliary discharge valve in the trim manifold
had the disc come off the stem.

TENTH DAY, Wednesday, February 18, 1942.
While about 45 miles northeast of KEMA a green very star was
fired close aboard the starboard quarter. It was a fairly dark night
with clouds. Nothing could be seen so submerged at 0337. Sound could
hear nothing and it was too dark to see with the periscope. I believed
it was a drifter patrol and the green star was a signal to call up
larger craft.

It had been my intention to close KEMA during the day and
investigate it but the early dive slowed me up so that I did not get
within sight of the roads. To thoroughly investigate KEMA meant a
delay of 24 hours in arriving at my next station and the tenseness of
the situation further south indicated that the delay could not be
justified, particularly as I would be between any force there and
objectives further south. I accordingly continued toward the BANDA
SEA surfacing at 1840.

-2-

— page 52 —
.SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

ELEVENTH DAY, Thursday, February 19, 1942.

Submerged at 0445. Surfaced 1825. No contacts.

An examination of No.4 main engine disclosed that two units
had broken needle bearings at wrist pin end of connecting rod. These
were repaired during the day with last two spares.

TWELFTH DAY, Friday, February 20, 1942.

0100 cleared GREYHOUND STRAIT successfully in spite of a
very dark night. Lightning all around the horizon was frequent
enough to allow us to see the islands.

Submerged 0444. Surfaced 1820. No contacts until 2245 when
a destroyer was sighted about 2500 yards on the port quarter headed
toward me. Submerged at once and heard two destroyers pass from
north to south with one to east and one to west of PORPOISE. Just
as they were moving out of range they appeared to turn and come back
but after almost getting over PORPOISE they turned again and went off
to the south being last heard at 2325. At 2344 heard another ship to
the south with the same type of propeller noise but making about 100
R.P.M. more than the first two.

THIRTEENTH DAY, Saturday, February 21, 1942.

Surfaced 0110. Submerged 0431. Surfaced 1820. No contacts.
At 2200 changed course to southwest to take up new station on the
northern half of the line BUTON ISLAND - ALOR STRAIT assigned by
despatch. This is the third set of despatch orders received and each
time they arrived just in time. I haven't had to turn back or mark
time once.

FOURTEENTH DAY, Sunday, February 22, 1942.

Submerged 0433. Surfaced 1828. No contacts.

FIFTEENTH DAY, Monday, February 23, 1942.

Submerged 0445. Surfaced 1834. No contacts. On station.

-3-

— page 53 —
SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

SIXTEENTH DAY, Tuesday, February 24, 1942.

Submerged 0500. Surfaced 1837. No contacts.

SEVENTEENTH DAY, Wednesday, February 25, 1942.

Submerged 0443. Surfaced 1830. No contacts. Received orders
to pass south of PULASSI ISLAND and north of the PATERNOSTERS to a
new station 40 miles east of SALMON's new station. This was somewhat
ambiguous as the last new assignment for SALMON was several days old and
she had another ship to her east. Course was set to carry out the first
part of the order.

EIGHTEENTH DAY, Thursday, February 26, 1942.

[CROSSED OUT: At 0100 received a despatch previously missed which clarified]
[CROSSED OUT: the assignment of PORPOISE and also explained the urgency of the]
[CROSSED OUT: situation. Accordingly increased speed.]

Submerged 0448. Surfaced 1827. No contacts.

At 2400 passed south of PULASSI ISLAND.

NINETEENTH DAY, Friday, February 27, 1942.

At 0418 submerged in consequence of a presumed contact on the
starboard bow. Too dark to see and sound could not hear anything.
At daylight nothing was visible. Believe it was a cloud. Surfaced
at 1845.

TWENTIETH DAY, Saturday, February 28, 1942.

[CROSSED OUT: At 0115 received a change of assignment to a patrol south]
[CROSSED OUT: of SIBBALDS' BANK and at 0500 submerged. Surfaced]
[CROSSED OUT: 1855 and at 2200 set course to westward as PORPOISE had received]
[CROSSED OUT: orders to go west along the parallel 6° south.]

TWENTY FIRST DAY, Sunday, March 1, 1942.

Submerged 0525. Surfaced 1900. No contacts. [CROSSED OUT: At 2100 received]
[CROSSED OUT: orders to patrol a line 320 - 140 through a point 60 miles northeast]
[CROSSED OUT: of the east point of MADURA ISLAND. At 2200 being on station took up]
[CROSSED OUT: patrol.]

-4-

— page 54 —
SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

TWENTY SECOND DAY, Monday, March 2, 1942.

Submerged 0516. Surfaced 1902. No contacts. At 2035 submerged
due to possible contact. The enemy turned out to be trees on the western
end of GREAT MASALEMBO ISLAND. Surfaced at 2135.

TWENTY THIRD DAY, Tuesday, March 3, 1942.

Submerged 0517. Surfaced 1911. No contacts. [HANDWRITTEN: Today a leak]
developed in the trim pump discharge line. [HANDWRITTEN: ship's force was able to]
repair it after a fashion, but we have to use the drain pump for all
pumping to sea. It is noisy and very inefficient.

TWENTY FOURTH DAY, Wednesday, March 4, 1942.

Submerged 0515. Surfaced 1905. No contacts.

TWENTY FIFTH DAY, Thursday, March 5, 1942.

Submerged 0510. Surfaced 1902. No contacts.

TWENTY SIXTH DAY, Friday, March 6, 1942.

Submerged 0515. At 1908 sighted a light cruiser of the NATORI
class bearing 359½°, distant 10,000 yards, angle on the bow 80° port.
PORPOISE was then in latitude 6° south, longitude 114-20.2° east on
course 140°. Came to normal approach course but could not close range
below 5600 yards. CL was zigzagging but alone and her plane was on the
catapult. Base course 260°, speed 15.

Surfaced 1906.

TWENTY SEVENTH DAY, Saturday, March 7, 1942.

Submerged 0515. Surfaced 1900. No contacts.

-5-

— page 55 —
SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1

CONFIDENTIAL

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

TWENTY EIGHTH DAY, Sunday, March 8, 1942.

Submerged 0515. Surfaced 1900. No contacts.

Received orders to move northern approaches to LOMBOK STRAIT
to the eastward of MEINDERTS REEF. I decided to pass to the eastward
of KANGEAN ISLANDS going to my new station. I was influenced in this
decision by the warning in the Sailing Directions, my own previous
experience with rocks and shoals and the fact that by morning I would
be, to some extent, across the northern approaches which I was to cover.

TWENTY NINTH DAY, Monday, March 9, 1942.

Submerged 0508. Surfaced 1851. No contacts.

THIRTIETH DAY, Tuesday, March 10, 1942.

Fully on new station.

Submerged 0510. Surfaced 1900.

The ship's company show the effects of fatigue and heat to a
marked degree. Reactions are slow tempers short and nerves on edge
with skin diseases of all types very bad and general health poor.

THIRTY FIRST DAY, Wednesday, March 11, 1942.

At 0408, while closing MEINDERTS REEF from the east sighted
a destroyer 30° on my starboard bow, angle on the bow 90° port, speed
10, range 2,000 yards. I submerged and made no attack. At that time
I had firmly fixed in my mind that a submarine should never pick a fight
with a destroyer and that attitude colored my actions for the next three
days. I have since had the error of my ways pointed out to me.

At 1300 sighted the upper works of a destroyer near the north
shore of BALI. The Japanese appear to maintain a night and day destroyer
patrol along the general line KANGEAN ISLAND - TANJUNG BUNGKULAN
(Northern coast of BALI).

Surfaced 1904.

-6-

— page 56 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

THIRTY SECOND DAY, Thursday, March 12, 1942.

Submerged 0457.

At 1617 on March 12 while in the northern approaches to LOMBOK
STRAIT sighted a destroyer of the ASASHIO class to the northward on
course 200°, speed 10 knots. This vessel had three white bands painted
around the forward stack. Believing her to be the advance screen of
a superior force, proceeded to pass her and continued to the north-
eastward. No other vessels were sighted this date. NOTE: Heat in the
boat terrific; injection temperature 87° for the last three days.

Surfaced 1617.

THIRTY THIRD DAY, Friday, March 13, 1942.

Submerged 0445.

At 1310 on Friday the 13th March sighted a destroyer of the
ASASHIO class on course 040°, speed 15 knots. Apparently a daily
destroyer patrol was maintained along the northern approaches of
LOMBOK STRAIT.

At 1535 smoke was sighted bearing 210°. This contact was
developed as three AK's in column, distance 1000 yards, with one
ASASHIO class destroyer screen ahead. Evidently SEAWOLF had taught
them about divided fire. At 1600 went to battle stations and started
approach. At 1643 fired four torpedoes at the leading vessel of the
convoy on an 80 degree starboard track angle, gyro angle 10° left;
torpedo run 1500 yards. At 1644-45 heard one explosion. Target be-
lieved to be MANKO MARU or a sister ship. At 1655 received the first
of twelve depth charges which were in a pattern of 4 - 2-3 and 3.
The third pattern was very close shaking the ship and cracking the
nipples in the circulating water intake of the stern tube glands. No
other serious damage was done. Destroyer continued hunting and re-
peatedly heard in the vicinity of PORPOISE until 1843 at which time
an observation was made and one AK and two vessels of unknown type
were seen silhouetted against the western sky. Deep submergence was
again resumed and at 1923 two more explosions were heard. The first
of these did not have the characteristic metallic clang which, in the
experience of the Commanding Officer, always was the first thing heard
on all types of under water explosives. Propellers were later heard
until 2000. Surfaced 2035.

-7-
[HANDWRITTEN: 8]

— page 57 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

SS172/A9
Serial S-1
[HANDWRITTEN: R-I-T]
CONFIDENTIAL
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

The heat on this dive was almost unbearable the majority
of the crew having severe headaches. The pressure in the boat
was 6 inches of mercury on surfacing.

THIRTY FOURTH DAY, Saturday, March 14, 1942.
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓]
Submerged 0450. Spent day north of ALAS STRAIT. Surfaced 1858.

THIRTY FIFTH DAY, Sunday, March 15, 1942.
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓]
Submerged 0458. Surfaced 1905. No contacts.
Spent day somewhat to eastward of direct course northward from
LOMBOK STRAIT so as to be sure and keep clear of SNAPPER who was due
to come through at this time.

THIRTY SIXTH DAY, Monday, March 16, 1942.
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓]
Submerged 0454. Surfaced 1903. No contacts.
Moved back into traffic lanes today.

THIRTY SEVENTH DAY, Tuesday, March 17, 1942.
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓]
Submerged 0455. Surfaced 1903. No contacts.
Discovered cracks in frame of No. 4 main engine.

THIRTY EIGHTH DAY, Wednesday, March 18, 1942.
[HANDWRITTEN: ✓]
Submerged 0457. Surfaced 1903. No contacts.
Due to the extreme physical exhaustion of the crew and the
physical and nervous exhaustion of myself together with the approaching
exhaustion of provisions, I decided to start south by the shortest
route. An attempt was made to notify Commander Submarines, U.S.ASIATIC
FLEET of this decision but the radio transmitter was in-operative and
attempts to repair were not effective.

-8-
[HANDWRITTEN: 9]

— page 58 —
SS172/A9
Serial S-1
[CROSSED OUT: CONFIDENTIAL]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

THIRTY NINTH DAY, Thursday, March 19, 1942.

Submerged 0400. Surfaced 1853.

On March 19, LOMBOK STRAIT was successfully transitted. No
contacts were made, visibility was poor, with frequent and heavy
rain squalls and heavy swells. A rapid current settin to the south
was experienced and in the southern part of the strait strong tide rips
with consequent difficulty in maintaining both course and depth. [CROSSED OUT: 2100]
[CROSSED OUT: On this date received COSAF #79 which] directed PORPOISE to proceed to
[CROSSED OUT: the eastward patrolling the northern approaches to ALAS and SAPE
STRAITS for one day then to start south via SAPE STRAITS.]

The Commanding Officer did not believe the ship able to comply
with these orders. This was based upon the necessity of re-using LOMBOK
STRAITS then taking up the assigned patrol and then again transitting
the MALAY BARRIER in proceeding to the southward occupying an estimated
five to seven additional days on patrol which was beyond the endurance
of PORPOISE in her present condition. Accordingly course to the south-
ward was maintained.

FORTIETH DAY, Friday, March 20, 1942.

Submerged 0500. Surfaced 1850. No contacts.

Weather is getting worse. Heavy seas from northwest. Ship
broached twice while attempting observations.

FORTY FIRST DAY, Saturday, March 21, 1942.

At 0115 changed course to southeastward to comply with orders
received to look for Japanese ship in the vicinity of 15° south, 121°
east then to patrol along 100 fathom curve off BROOME, occupying two
days on way to base.

Submerged 0520. Surfaced 1834. No contacts.

FORTY SECOND DAY, Sunday, March 22, 1942.

Submerged 0458. Surfaced 1630. No contacts.

-9-
[HANDWRITTEN: 10]

— page 59 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

SS172/A9
Serial S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

FORTY THIRD DAY, Monday, March 23, 1942.

Submerged 0526. Surfaced 1746. No contacts.

On March 23, having had no fix for four days it was estimated
that PORPOISE had passed through 15° south, 121° east. 2100 this
date the 100 fathom curve was crossed and course was changed to
200°. In an attempt to run it down, 2130 the water having shoaled
to 28 fathoms course was changed to 270° and speed was reduced to
2/3. At 2330 the 100 fathom curve was again crossed. By this time
all indications pointed toward a rapidly approaching tropical cyclone
the barometer having fallen .3" in six hours, wind and sea were rapidly
rising and in view of very doubtful position the Commanding Officer
held his course to the westward clawing off a lee shore which had been
poorly surveyed and the only chart on board of this shore was a small
scale general chart, H.O. 5590.

FORTY FOURTH DAY, Tuesday, March 24, 1942.

At dawn on March 24, the cyclone had reach such severe proportions
that while it was believed that PORPOISE could be successfully sub-
merged the Commanding Officer could not see how she could be surfaced
without foundering. Accordingly no attempt was made to submerge on this
date. About 1030 the severity of the storm was such that PORPOISE was
hove to at 1/3 speed (Normally 6½ knots by pitometer log at this time).
The wind force was a steady 8 rising to 10
in the frequent squalls which came from the north. The seas were
mountainous being from 30 - 40 feet from trough to crest but were con-
fused in that they came from both the northwest and the north. The
PORPOISE maintained steerage way heading west and she rode the seas
surprisingly well being relatively dry and taking no solid water over
the bridge nor did there appear to be any danger of flooding of the
induction at any time.

FORTY FIFTH DAY, Wednesday, March 25, 1942.

During the early morning of March 25 it was apparent the
cyclone was moving off to the southward and the wind and sea had com-
menced to abate and at 0300 started to build up speed gradually.
By 0800 approximate position having been obtained through two doubtful
sights, course was set for FREMANTLE. 1130 the weather had moderated
to such an extent as to allow the resumption of standard speed.

-10-
[HANDWRITTEN: 11]

— page 60 —
SS172/A9
Serial No.S-1
S-E-C-R-E-T
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

FORTY SIXTH DAY, Thursday, March 26, 1942.

Submerged 0513. Surfaced 0655. Ran on surface rest of day
with no contacts.

FORTY SEVENTH DAY, Friday, March 27, 1942.

Submerged 0521. Surfaced 1635.

First day of pleasant weather since coming south of the
BARRIER on the 19th.

Reported by despatch to Commander Submarines, U.S. ASIATIC FLEET
present position, estimated time of arrival off FREMANTLE as dawn of the
30th, results of action on March 13 and conditions encountered off BROOME.

FORTY EIGHTH DAY, Saturday, March 28, 1942.

Submerged 0525. Surfaced 0648.

Weather turning bad again with wind and seas from the south re-
quiring reduction in speed to relieve heavy pounding.

Ever since the heavy weather of March 24 have had to use low
pressure blowers every two to four hours in order to maintain buoyancy
and stability.

FORTY NINTH DAY, Sunday, March 29, 1942.

At 1400 the weather had moderated and although the ship was still
only making 8 knots by pitometer log while making turns for 12.5 the seas
were short and steep though moderate in size. As an experiment another
engine was put on propulsion and the ship actually rode better. At the
higher speed she did not have time between waves for the bow to pitch
down into the next one.

FIFTIETH DAY, Monday, March 30, 1942.

Successfully made rendezvous with U.S.S. ISABEL and entered
FREMANTLE harbor. Hours submerged 604.3 Patrol completed.

-11-
[HANDWRITTEN: 12]

— page 61 —
SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL (crossed out)]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED (crossed out)]
[STAMP: NARA (faint)]

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE [HANDWRITTEN: #2]

2. WEATHER.

JAVA SEA, South of MASALEMBO ISLAND - Early March.

Weather very clear, with light winds, generally from southeast
no rain squalls, a few scattered clouds usually at dusk, visibility
very high in the daytime and on moonlight nights, and without moon
the nights were clear and dark; phosphorescence very high; sea glassy,
to very light chop, no swells, water injection temperature average 85° F.

MAKASSAR STRAIT - Early February

Weather overcast and rain in southern part of straits and around
CAPE WILLIAM AND TG TJENOKI, sea choppy with few white
caps, injection temperature 84° F; visibility fair. Off NORTH WATCHER
weather clear, visibility good, sea choppy with few white caps wind
light and generally from northwest.

CELEBES SEA - Middle of February

Sea calm, weather generally clear with few rain squalls, visibility
very high in the daytime but at night low because of low hanging clouds that
settled down at about dusk, wind usually from northwest, water injection
temperature 84° F.

BANGKA PASSAGE, MOLUKKA SEA AND GREYHOUND STRAITS - Middle of Feb.

Sea calm, to light chops, few white caps, frequent rain squalls,
partially overcast, visibility good to fair, nights very dark, light
wind from northwest. The transit of GREYHOUND STRAIT was made on a
very clear night, frequent lightning flashes illuminated the
horizon by which we picked up land marks.

S. MOLUKKA SEA, BANDA SEA AND FLORES SEA - Latter part of Feb.

In general weather clear and visibility good in daytime but at
night there was a haze almost a fog therefore very low visibility.
Sea calm almost glassy at all times, practically no wind experienced.

SOUTH OF BUTON ISLAND AND PASSAGE SOUTH OF PULASSI ISLAND.

Weather clear, sea glassy, visibility very good.

NORTHERN APPROACHES TO LOMBOK STRAIT - Middle of March.

Sea calm to slight chop few heavy swells; about 50% of the time
it was overcast and squally, rain mostly at night, general wind from
-12-
[HANDWRITTEN: 13]

— page 62 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

southeast from 3 to 5 knots, water injection temperature 87° F.
Visibility usually good.

LOMBOK STRAIT AND SOUTH OF BARRIER - End of March.

Through LOMBOK STRAIT the sea was rough with long heavy swell.
It was overcast with heavy rain fall, visibility very poor at times
only about 100 yards due to heavy rain fall. The water injection
temperature was 87° F. except at south entrance of strait we ran into
a very cold current and the injection temperature dropped to 64° F.
This current lasted about 30 to 40 minutes and did cool boat off
slightly. Depth control was very poor. On leaving the current the
injection temperature rose to 87° F. The passage from LOMBOK STRAIT to
South of Broome was rough, we ran into a Willie Willie north of BROOME.
The seas were of a mixed character and up to 30 to 40 feet high, the wind from
north force 10 to 12. It was dangerous to dive the ship or to surface.
The speed on surface made good was about 1 knot running at 1/3 ahead
It was overcast and raining practically all the time and no star fix
could be obtained for four days.

3. TIDAL INFORMATION.

In general the tides and currents were of a mixed character,
set and drifts computed from day to day could not be depended upon.
The following information was the most outstanding:

CELEBES SEA - A set of 1.5 knots 220° was noted in eastern portion of
sea on approaching BANGKA STRAIT - Feb 16 - 17.
SOUTH OF BUTON ISLAND - Northeast set 1 knot February 23,24,25.
NORTHER APPROACH TO LOMBOK STRAIT - Set 3/4 knot,170° T, March 9 to 17.
LOMBOK STRAIT - A southerly set of 3 to 5 knots was noted March 19.

-13-
[HANDWRITTEN: 14]

— page 63 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

4. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS.

The only navigational lights sighted were the lightship
upon leaving west entrance to SURABAYA and ROTTWEST LIGHT.

Navigation by star sights using sextant with good results.
U d periscope on tangents and peaks.when possible. The fathometer
was used when necessary with fair results.

NEGOTIATING LOMBOK STRAIT.

The strait was approached from northwest to pass about 8
miles off BALI. At 0400 dived on course 170° T. At 0625 made
periscope observation and found we had been set southeast and
were 10 miles off LOMBOK ISLAND. Changed
hourly fix on peaks and tangents when possible.and found a set south
from 3 to 5 knots. At 1045 changed course to 180° T and passed
between NUSA BESAN and LOMBOK. At 1400 cleared the strait.

5. VESSELS SIGHTED.

1. Night contact with d estroyer of undetermined class in
latitude 3-40 south, longitude 124-55 east at 2245 on February 20,
1942. Enemy course 180°, speed 10 knots.

2. At 0908 March 6, 1942, sighted light cruiser of the NATORI
class while in latitude 6° south, longitude 114-20.2 east. Her base
course was 260°, speed 15. Zigzagging. Plane on catapult.

Bearing 359½ upon sighting, range 10,000. Own course 140°.
Turned to normal approach course, 270° but closest range attainable
was 5600 after which she zigged away.

3. At 0438 March 11, 1942 sighted destroyer of unidentified
class to eastward of MEINDERT'S REEF, course 225, speed 10.

4. At 1300 March 11, 1942 sighted tops of destroyers off
north coast of BALI, course west.

-14-
[HANDWRITTEN: 15]

— page 64 —
SS172/A9
Serial No. S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

5. VESSELS SIGHTED (Cont'd)

5. At 1617 March 12, 1942 sighted destroyer of ASASHIO class
off northern approach to LOMBOK STRAIT, course 200°, speed 10. Passed
at range of 3500 yards. Could have attacked but did not because I
believed her to be screen of larger force coming down from the north.
She had three white bands around her forward smoke pipe.

6. At 1310 March 13, 1942 sighted a destroyer of ASASHIO class
bound north out of LOMBOK STRAIT, course 040° speed 15. Did not
attack as still looking for larger game.

7. At 1535 on March 13, 1942, in latitude 7-45° south, longitude
116-15 east, sighted smoke to southward. This was developed as a
convoy of three AK in column, course 040°, speed 10, distant 1000 yards
One destroyer of ASASHIO class screening about 1000 yards ahead of
leading AK and patrolling station to about 1500 yards on each side of
track of convoy. First AK looked like MANKO MARU or sister ship, 4471
tons, single stack, two masts, well decks, fore and aft, two king posts
at forward corner of bridge structure, straight stem with slight rake
forward and cruiser stern. This vessel was attacked and hit. The
second AK was of about the same size but had a pair of king posts for-
ward and aft in place of the two masts. The third AK was somewhat
smaller but no details were noted.

6. AIRCRAFT SIGHTED.

None.

7. PARTICULARS OF ATTACKS.

March 13, 1942, north of LOMBOK STRAIT.
Latitude 7-45° south
Longitude 116-15 east.
Target, AK MANKO MARU.
Torpedoes fired 4, first at 1643. Zone minus 8.
Firing interval, 10 sec., 6 sec.
Firing range, 1500 yards.
Points of aim. 1. 1/4 length
2. Foremast
3. Stack
4. Stern.

-15-
[HANDWRITTEN: 16]

— page 65 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

SS172/A9
Serial S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

7. (Cont'd)

    Track angle, 80° starboard
    Gyro angle, 10° left.
    Depth settings, 1. 6 ft., 2. 10 ft., 3. 6ft., 4. 10 ft.
    Estimated speed 10 knots.
    Fired with periscope up and using T.D.C. with white light
    method.
    Sound heard torpedoes run.
    Big explosion, 1 minute, 45 seconds after first torpedo
    was fired.

8. ENEMY Anti Submarine Measures.

    No echo ranging was heard on this cruise.

    Five times PORPOISE passed within sound range of enemy destroyers,
    twice diving after sight contact at night and only on the first occa-
    sion did the enemy give any indication of hostile intent. This time
    the two destroyers present turned and came back toward PORPOISE but
    evidently failed to re-establish contact. PORPOISE was at 150 feet.

    After attacking on March 13, 1942, PORPOISE very nearly broached.
    She was, however, at 150 feet when the first pattern of depth charges
    was dropped. I had turned toward the rear ships in the formation
    hoping to get under them or at least in their wakes to confuse the
    enemy's sound. The destroyer dropped four charges in the first pattern
    12 minutes after the first torpedo was fired. The intervals were 10,10,
    20 seconds. She then stopped and listened and all other ships present
    stopped. Another attack of 2 charges followed. PORPOISE then went to
    170 feet which was as deep as she could go without pumping or increas-
    ing speed neither of which I wished to do. Twice more the destroyer
    attacked each time stopping all surface craft and listening before and
    after attacks. These patterns were of 3 charges each. Total was 12
    charges in four attacks. The third of which was very close and cracked
    the circulating water intake nipples in the stern tubes in motor room
    besides gravely aggravating the amount of dirt free in the air system.

-16-
[HANDWRITTEN: 17]

— page 66 —
SS172/A9
Serial S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
S-E-C-R-E-T

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

8. (Cont'd)
     I then changed course to east as I wished to have the enemy
against the western sky when I surfaced after dark which was approach-
ing.

     At 1923, two hours and forty minutes after firing two more
explosions were heard a long distance away. I think that these were
the Japs destroying the ship PORPOISE had damaged but that may be
wishful thinking.

     From the time of first attack 1643 until 1955 propellers were
heard passing and repassing almost constantly.

     I have not been able to figure any better way to escape depth
charge attack than to run deep and like the pig slowly walk away.

     As for penetrating the screen I had no difficulty there as
there was only one destroyer and I approached from ahead and to
their starboard. As I came in the destroyer swinging over to the
port bow of the convoy and was coming back to starboard and about
ahead of convoy when I fired.

9. MAJOR DEFECTS.

     1. The most serious defect on the cruise was the lack of freon
for the refrigerating and air conditioning plants. The latter was
not available for use at all and the former only lasted ten days. About
ten days fresh provisions were jettisoned due to inability to keep
from spoiling and diet for the last forty days of the cruise was cor-
respondingly curtailed both in quantity, and nutritional value.

     2. The trim and drain pumps were non-reliable requiring
numerous repairs.

     3. One section of piping in the trim pump discharge failed
and repairs were not good enough to allow use of this pump against
a pressure head which necessitated use of the drain pump for all
pumping to sea.

-17-

[HANDWRITTEN: 18]

— page 67 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

S8172/A9
Serial S-1
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL OF U.S.S. PORPOISE

9. (Cont'd)

  4. Two units of No.4 main engine had to have connecting rods
  replaced and cracks were found in the frames of this engine.

  5. The air system throughout the ship were very dirty and
  the various valves very quickly developed leaks requiring frequent
  grinding. This condition was severely aggravated by the depth charging
  received March 13, 1942.

  6. The vent piping developed leaks and after the storm of March
  24 it was found that No. 4 and No.6 main ballast tanks could not be
  kept dry as the flood valves leaked and there were holes in the vent
  lines. This required the turbo blow every two to four hours
  to maintain buoyancy and stability.

  7. Numerous engine stoppages were experienced but they were
  all of a minor nature and quickly repaired.

10. REMARKS

  The habitability of PORPOISE was very bad. Without air con-
  ditioning the ship is extremely hot, much worse than an S-boat. This
  coupled with an improper diet, the result of lack of refrigeration
  quickly and seriously affected the health of the crew and the patrol
  was abandoned because of the utter exhaustion of all hands at the end
  of 38 days of torture.

  Battery water was distilled without difficulty but the supply
  of potable water gradually dropped even though every effort was made
  to conserve it. On the surface the ship always ran at least two
  engines on propulsion in order to distill potable water.

  The route followed by PORPOISE on this patrol was from Surabaya,
  around CELEBES via MAKASSAR STRAIT, CELEBES SEA, BANGKA PASSAGE,
  GREYHOUND STRAIT, BANDA SEA to a patrol area on the line BUTON ISLAND -
  ALOR STRAIT north of 7° south. Thence to the westward passing south of
  PULASSI ISLAND to a line GREAT MASALEMBO ISLAND - KANGEAN ISLANDS. After
  several days here PORPOISE moved to cover the norther approaches to
  LOMBOK STRAIT where she spent ten days. Leaving Netherland East Indies
  via LOMBOK STRAIT she proceeded to the vicinity of BROOME thence by
  most direct route to FREMANTLE, W.A.

-18-
[HANDWRITTEN: 19]

— page 68 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

[HANDWRITTEN: 4-43]

[STAMP: OFFICE OF THE]
[STAMP: RECEIVED]
[STAMP: FEB 18 1943]
[STAMP: U.S.S. PORPOISE]
[STAMP: COMMANDER SUBMARINES]
[STAMP: PACIFIC FLEET]

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: 88172/A16-3]

Serial 5-43

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: Report of Third War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Third War Patrol Report of U.S.S. PORPOISE.

1. Enclosure (A) is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: J. R. McKNIGHT, Jr.]
J. R. McKNIGHT, Jr.

[HANDWRITTEN: Forwarded.]
[HANDWRITTEN: 87571]
[HANDWRITTEN: (2)]

— page 69 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

[STAMP: C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol.

Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942

Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to

PEARL HARBOR, T.H. Operation Order No. 16
                                                                of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PROLOGUE

        Arrived FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA March 30, 1942
from second war patrol. Departed April 3, 1942 and arrived
ALBANY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA April 5, 1942. Commenced refit
April 6, 1942 by repair force, U.S.S. HOLLAND and ship's
company. Completed refit April 23, 1942. Not depermed
nor wiped; no training period. Departed ALBANY April 24,
1942 arrived FREMANTLE April 26, 1942. Topped-off fuel,
water, and provisions. Received operation order.

[HANDWRITTEN: 3]

— page 70 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE

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

                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

                      U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol

                      Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942

Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.

           Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART I      NARRATIVE

APRIL 26, 1942

1645 H      Underway from FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA. Made
            trim dive Northeast of ROTTNEST ISLAND. Had a great
            deal of trouble getting sufficient weight aft to put
            the ship in trim. The orders issued this ship were
            in brief as follows:
            Proceed North along the West coast of AUSTRALIA thence
            North and West of TIMOR investigating DILLI. Then
            continue North passing through MANIPA STRAIT and
            MOLUCCA PASSAGE. Pass North and West of BANGKAI ISLAND
            and investigate MENADO. Then proceed to the vicinity
            of DAVAO GULF. Operate in this area until May 22, 1942
            then proceed North of the PALALI ISLAND and by a
            designated route to PEARL HARBOR.

APRIL 27, 1942 to APRIL 30, 1942

            Proceeding Northward off West coast of AUSTRALIA on
            surface except for dawn dive.

MAY 1, 1942 to MAY 5, 1942

            Continuing Northward submerged during daylight due
            to being within range of JAP air patrols.

MAY 6, 1942

            As originally planned I should have been off DILLI
            on this date. Due to adverse currents encountered off
            the North and West Coasts of TIMOR We were some twenty
            miles from DILLI on surfacing. During the night re-
            ceived orders to proceed to AMBON and patrol off that
            port until May 10, 1942. Set course accordingly and
            thus never investigated the harbor of DILLI. On this
            date the air conditioning machines failed due to
            leakage of Freon.

                                        -1-

— page 71 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol

MAY 7, 1942
Proceeding Northward through the BANDA SEA.

MAY 8, 1942
Took up patrol off the Western approach to AMBON.

1522 H Sighted a medium sized, about 5000 tons, cargo ship
(Contact to the Northward. She was Southbound close inshore
No. 1) and under escort of a single gunboat or patrol ship.
(She looked a great deal like the British Corvettes).
Escort was patrolling ahead of the AK at about 1500
yards and going about that distance on each side of
the track. Went to battle stations and closed to
attack.

1600 H Fired four torpedoes at the AK all of which missed.
(Contact I attribute the misses to the fact that the target
No. 1) changed course to head up AMBON BAY the time of firing.
From this attack I learned that while points of land
are fine places to find which shipping must round
targets. The Submarine should take a position far
enough to one side of the point to allow for an
attack without danger of firing at the point of the
two courses around the point.

1615 H Received the first depth charge.

1618 H Received the second depth charge. This was extremely
close and put the stern planes out of commission and
jammed for two minutes; lost power on them for five
minutes.

1623 H Received third depth charge. Close.

1627 H Fourth depth charge. While this escort only used four
depth charges she was extremely accurate and gave us a
bad time. Other damage: Hull valve to No. 3 N.F.O.
tank backed off and relief valve in the after torpedo
room lifted admitting fuel oil to that compartment.

[HANDWRITTEN: (5)]
-2-

— page 72 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L                               c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                      San Francisco, California

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol

     Elbow in blow line to No. 3 N.F.O. tank cracked. At
a later date two battery jars developed bad cracks
which is attributed to this shaking up. The escort
continued to search back and forth over us and then
apparently left.

1835 H Surfaced by blowing Bow Buoyancy and Safety only.
     Found the escort vessel sitting there about 5000 yards
     from and astern of PORPOISE (C270). She apparently
     did not see us as we ran away from her, first on the
     motors and after 20 minutes on the engines. A very
     disappointing day.

2100 H Received orders to proceed to the island of JU (also
     spelled JOE or YU) and rescue the crew of an army plane,
     type LB30 which had made a crash landing there. We
     were to spend three days there if necessary and proceed
     to the Northward if unsuccessful. This island isquite
     small and lies in approximately 00-05 S, 129-35 E, being
     about six miles Northeast of GEBE and between HALMAHERA
     and NEW GUINEA.

MAY 9, 1942

     Proceeding through MANIPA STRAIT, South of OBI MAJOR
     and West of BCO ISLANDS.

MAY 10, 1942

     Spent day submerged close inshore of the South side of
     JU. Could see no white men or signs of a plane. Much
     peaceful activity by the natives. No signs of JAPS.
     Just at sunset a large fire started up on the beach.
     Considering this to be a signal beacon surfaced and went
     as close to the beach as I dared. I thought that our
     periscope had been seen as we had spent the day about
     1000 yards off shore and the sea was flat calm. It
     turned out to be just a bonfire. As soon as we surfaced
     there was intense activity among the natives, a number
     of them rushed Eastward by boat and foot. They had gone
     to tell the aviators about us.

(6)                                                      -3-

— page 73 —
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

U.S.S. PORPOISE
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol

While hoisting out our boat a boat about 40' long
appeared from the Southeast from GEBE. Not knowing
if it was friendly or hostile I manned the deck gun,
.50 cal. and both .30 cal machine guns. They had
been mounted on surface and stopped work on the boat
and awaited developments. I did want to get in the
first shot if it was to be a fight but I didn't want
to antagonize possible friends who might have our
aviators in their hands. The boat passed astern without
incident and work was resumed on our own boat. The
engine was useless having been flooded on the first
patrol and no spares had been available for repairs
but we still had oars so I embarked the Executive
Officer, Lieutenant A. CRABORN and three men armed with
pistols, one rifle and one Lewis Machine Gun to land
and see what could be seen. Before the boat had gone
100 yars it was apparent that she was too heavy to
handle with only two oars and that if they ran into
opposition they would never be able to get back. I
recalled them and decided to lie off the island over-
night, spend the next day submerged and then jettison
the motor boat engine and send a larger party ashore
to reconnoiter in force. About the time the boat was
secured a red rocket went up from the beach and in the
light we could see five white men. Hails were ex-
changed and the ship brought into within 200 yards of
the beach. Natives brought the airmen out in bancas and at

2055 H set course for DARWIN having embarked

Capt. A. MUELLER, A.C., USA
1st Lieut P.E. COOL, A.C., USA
2nd Lieut L.E. GARDNER, A.C., USA
Master Sgt. W. E. BROWN, A.C., USA
Sgt. W. R. MANLEY, A.C., USA
The crew of LB30 which had made an emergency landing
there a week before. No material of a classified
nature was in the plane and she was a total loss.

-4-

— page 74 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California

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

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol

MAY 11, 1942
Reported rescue and ETA DARWIN with amount of fuel
required to complete mission. Unfortunately the
encipherment of this dispatch was not properly
checked and the last three groups were in plain
language thus compromising the cipher.

- MAY 12, 1942
1233 H Sighted an escort vessel to the South with a small
(Contact tanker or steam schooner on a Westerly course. Range
No. 2) 10,000 yards, angle on bow 90 starboard. Changed
course to Westward to close and attack but they drew
away and we were getting dangerously close to the
beach on BOEROE. Had to give up and
1330 H resumed course for DARWIN. Consider that they were
going from AMBON to KENDARI. They passed close to
South shore of BOEROE.

MAY 13, 1942 to MAY 15, 1942
Standing to Southward for DARWIN.

MAY 16, 1942
Ran past CAPE FOURCROY in the dark and over-ran the
D.R. due to current. In attempting to close the
channel found that cell No. 5F had a badly cracked
jar. Sighted escort, surfaced and entered PORT DARWIN
mooring to jetty. Fueled to capacity, received
limited amount of provisions, and fresh water to
capacity. Sent, via shore station, complete dispatch
report of patrol to date.

2358 H Departed DARWIN.

MAY 17, 1942
Received orders to proceed direct to PEARL via designated
route.

-5-

— page 75 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol

MAY 20, 1942

Transited MANIPA STRAIT for the third time this
month. Cell No. 76-A found to have a cracked jar.

MAY 21, 1942 to JUNE 5, 1942

Proceeding to PEARL.

JUNE 6, 1942

2230 L Received orders to report position, course and speed
to Commander Task Force SEVEN which was given as 17 N.,
162 E., speed 140 miles per day.

JUNE 8, 1942

0010 L Received orders to intercept enemy force of two heavy
cruisers and two destroyers. Information given shows
they are on course for PONAPE and that we can be on
their daylight position circle Southeast of WAKE by
dawn of the ninth.

2300 L On enemy's position circle for dawn. Took up patrol
on fifteen miles line normal to enemy's course.

JUNE 9, 1942

Not having seen enemy, and plot showed that they should
have passed by during day, abandoned patrol at sunset
and set course for PEARL.

2300 L Received dispatch which gave positions of two enemy
forces and stated that they were headed toward the
Mandates. This information was so vague as to be almost
useless but analysis showed that if they were headed
for the Eastern MARSHALLS by holding course and speed
we could be on the dawn position circle of one force
and the dusk circle of the other, assuming they were
making 15 knots, during the tenth. As we did not have
speed or time to intercept on any other assumption we
held on and kept a sharp lookout during the day.

JUNE 10, 1942

Received orders to proceed direct to PEARL. Set course
accordingly.

-6-

— page 76 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
                                        c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                        San Francisco, California

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

                    U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol

                    JUNE 17, 1942

                    Entered PEARL HARBOR.

(10)
                                                                -7-

— page 77 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

CONFIDENTIAL

[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol
Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942
Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.
Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART II WEATHER

The weather was normal for the season and locality being
in general calm and pleasant with occasional showers and scattered
clouds.

In the BANDA SEA flat, calm and mirror smooth glassy seas
were again encountered in the early part of May.

[HANDWRITTEN: (1)]

— page 78 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
o/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California

[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol
Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942

Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.
Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART III
TIDAL INFORMATION

Tides and currents were in general as described in the
applicable volumes of Sailing Directions. No exact data was com-
piled as speed through the water could not be accurately determined
due to the Pitometer Log being out of commission for the patrol.

[HANDWRITTEN: (12)]

— page 79 —
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
                                                                U.S.S. PORPOISE

                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

                                        U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol
                                        Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942
                                        Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.
                                        Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART IV         NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

                No lighted navigational aids were seen after departure
        from FREMANTLE. The S.C.F. at DARWIN has one line of buoys
        marking its Northeast side.

[HANDWRITTEN: (13)]

— page 80 —
***U.S.S. PORPOISE***

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

                                                                o/c Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

                                U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol

                                Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942

Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.

                Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART V          VESSELS SIGHTED

CONTACT | DATE | TIME   | TYPE

— page 81 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol
Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942
Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.
Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART VI        AIRCRAFT SIGHTED

               No enemy planes seen.

[HANDWRITTEN: (15)]

— page 83 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

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

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol
Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942
Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.
Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART VIII        ENEMY A/S MEASURES

         Escort vessel depth charged us on May 8th with single
         charge attacks. She used listening only, no echo
         ranging and come very close to getting us.

[HANDWRITTEN: 2]

— page 84 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

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

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol
Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942

Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.

Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART XIII HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

          The ship was extremely hot during the entire patrol.
          The air conditioning failed after three days use.

(8)

— page 85 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
                                                                c/o Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol
Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942
Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.
Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

PART XIV        MILES STEAMED

                The patrol lasted 53 days during which we steamed
                9,084 miles.

— page 86 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California

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

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Third War Patrol
Period from April 26, 1942 to June 17, 1942
Area N.E.I. enroute FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA to PEARL HARBOR, T.H.
Operation Order No. 16 of Commander Submarines, ASIATIC FLEET

XV FUEL EXPENDED

94,665 gallons.

[HANDWRITTEN: (20)]

— page 87 —
7

UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

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

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)

U. S. SUBMARINE ACTION REPORT

U.S.S. PORPOISE                                        Date: May 8, 1942
Time: 1600 Kype                                       Latitude: 3-50-30 S
                                                      Longitude: 129-57-00 E

                                                      INSTRUCT IONS
(a) ATTACK FIRST - THEN COLLECT DATA FOR THIS REPORT.
(b) DO NOT "GUN DECK" THIS REPORT - IF DATA CANNOT BE ESTIMATED WITH
    REASONABLE ACCURACY ENTER A DASH (-) IN SPACE FOR WHICH NO DATA IS AVAILABLE.
(c) DRAW A CIRCLE AROUND THE APPROPRIATE ENTRY IN THIS REPORT
    WHEREVER SUITABLE.

Weather Conditions: Partly cloudy - enemy had land background.

SEA CONDITIONS: No swells or sea. Slight ripples.

SOUND CONDITIONS (if applicable): Fair.

TYPE OF OPERATIONS: Patrol to intercept ship load of gasoline
                    bound for AMBON.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE: Japanese AK

FORCES ENGAGED: OWN ----- U.S.S. PORPOISE

Name and Type) ENEMY: AK and escort believed to be AM.

TYPE OF ATTACK (Own): Submerged periscope attack.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION: Closed enemy on opposite course then turned toward
                   to fire bow shot on 90° starboard track. Enemy
                   turned away just prior to firing.

WEAPONS EMPLOYED:
OWN: Torpedoes.
ENEMY : Depth charges (4 single charge attacks)

AMMUNITION EXPENDED: Four (4) torpedoes, Mark XIV.

EVASIVE TACTICS EMPLOYED: Own: Ran away at low speed while enemy stopped.
                              High speed and turns when he speeded up
                              his attacks. 170 feet.
                          ENEMY: Turned away.

[HANDWRITTEN: (2)]

— page 88 —
UNITED STATES ASIATIC FLEET
SUBMARINE DIVISION 203

CONFIDENTIAL

U. S. S. PORPOISE (SS172)
U.S. SUBMARINE ACTION REPORT

FOR TORPEDO ATTACK (Own):
Firing range: 1500
Keel depth: 60
Straight shots
Type spread: longitudinal, 10 sec. int.
Attack: Opposed by close screen.
Detected: After firing.

TYPE ATTACK:
Periscope and TDC

RESULTS: (Certain): Missed.

(Estimated):

DAMAGE TO OWN SHIP: Stern planes lost power and jammed for two minutes;
lost power on them for five minutes. Hull valve off, and relief valve in Aft torpedo room
that compartment. Elbow in blow line to No.3 H.F.O. tank cracked.
After effects: Two battery jars badly cracked.

BRIEF REMARKS: Miss due to control errors. Target turned away just
[UNCLEAR: prior] to firing to [UNCLEAR: get] or AMBON and [UNCLEAR: General]
[UNCLEAR: fired] while target was still turning and
[UNCLEAR: of] target in turn.
Later was informed by dispatch from ComSuba,AF that
Japs claimed recovery of three of these torpedoes. Torpedo tracks
were directly toward the beach which was about 6,000 yards from firing
point.

J. R. MC KNIGHT, Jr.,
Lieut-Comdr., USNavy

— page 89 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(12) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET Jk
Serial Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,

CONFIDENTIAL

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 42-A]
U.S.S. PORPOISE - THIRD WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE (SS172) - Report of Third War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject War Patrol Report.

1. This patrol was made enroute Pearl Harbor, T.H. from
Southwest. For reasons unknown, this report was not received until
eight months after the vessel arrived in Pearl Harbor.

2. Only one attack was made and it was unsuccessful. It
is believed that three of the torpedoes fired on this attack were
later recovered on the beach by the Japanese.

3. This vessel was enroute in Southwest Pacific Area
from May 21 to June 17, 1942 and then proceeded to Navy Yard,
Mare Island, for overhaul.

[SIGNATURE: C.A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.] [HANDWRITTEN: EUS]

DISTRIBUTION
(DM-43)
List III: SS
Special:
Pl(5), EN3(5), Z1(5),
Comsublant (2), X3(1),
Comsubsowespac (2),
Subschool NL (2),
Comtaskfor 42 (2),
Comsubron 50 (2).
[SIGNATURE: E.R. SWINBURNE]
E.R. SWINBURNE,
Flag Secretary.

[HANDWRITTEN: RS.# 379]
[HANDWRITTEN: ①]

— page 90 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]
[HANDWRITTEN: 3 0488]

FF12-10/A16-3(5)/ SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
(12)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial 0223 San Francisco, California,
February 18, 1943.

[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 139
U.S.S. PORPOISE - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE (SS172) - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject War Patrol.
(B) Comsubdiv 44 Conf. ltr. Serial 022 of February
7, 1943.
(C) Comsubron 4 Conf. ltr. Serial 027 of February
9, 1943.

1. It is noted that the PORPOISE departed from an area in
which she had been assigned a special mission on 6 January 1943, six
days prior to scheduled time, due to a shortage of fuel. Another
submarine was due to arrive in this area 13 January. The PORPOISE did
not remain in nor notify this command of his early departure until 13 January, con-
sequently leaving a strategic area open for seven days.

2. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, notes that
the attack upon a convoy on 1 January 1943, was well planned and well
executed.

3. The PORPOISE is credited with inflicting the following
damage on the enemy:

SUNK
1 - freighter (HOKKO MARU Type) - 5,300 tons

DAMAGED
1 - freighter (Type unknown) approximately - 4,000 tons

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: GP 0989C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/73] C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

(Distribution and authentication
on following page)
- 1 -
[HANDWRITTEN: Filmed]
[HANDWRITTEN: 46610]

— page 91 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET 6s
(12)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
February 18, 1943.

Serial 0223

CONFIDENTIAL
COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 139.
U.S.S. PORPOISE (SS172) FOURTH WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE (SS172) - Report of Fourth War
Patrol.

DISTRIBUTION
(1M-43)
List III: SS
Special
F1(5), EN3(5), Z1(5),
Comsublant (2), X3(1)
Comsubwowespac (2)
Subschool NL (2)
Comtask 42 (2)
Comsubron 50 (2)

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

— page 92 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.
Period from November 30, 1942 to January 15, 1943
Areas -----, and ----- Operation Order No. 105-42

PROLOGUE

Arrived PEARL HARBOR on June 17, 1942 from Third War Patrol.
Departed June 20, 1942 for MARE ISLAND arriving there
June 28, 1942. Commenced major overhaul on June 29, 1942 re-
ceiving new main engines, one-half of a new battery, SD and SJ
RADARS, vapor compression still, degaussing coils, two deck
torpedo tubes forward, installed negative tank, and was re-
ballasted. Made deep submergence test and was depermed and
calibrated over the magnetic range. Departed October 22, 1942,
Submarine Base did repair work on deficiencies developed in
passage. Ship's force renewed all bearings in all main engines.
Received eight days training. Readiness for sea November 29,1942.

PART I - NARRATIVE

November 30, 1942
0901 VW Underway from Submarine Base, PEARL HARBOR, T.H., for
Fourth War Patrol in accordance with Commander Submarine
Force, PACIFIC FLEET Operation Order No. 105-42. Pro-
ceeded along prescribed course passing to the westward
of OAHU in company with escort until dark. Heavy swells
prevented the use of four engines on propulsion during
passage to MIDWAY in order to make good speed ordered
(13 knots) and still allow for daily dive at dawn.

December 3, 1942
1100 Y Sighted ship on starboard bow, hull down.
1110 Y Went to battle stations and closed her until at
1136 Y when she had been identified as SC-520.
1200 Y Slowed to 12 knots and stood on in company with SC-520.

December 4, 1942
1030 Y While closing MIDWAY No. 2 main generator flashed over.
1213 Y Moored to dock in MIDWAY lagoon and loaded stores and
fueled to capacity. In
main generator remained

December 5, 1942
0703 Y Underway for patrol station with surface escort until
1000 Y at which time she parted company. At midnight changed
time to Minus 12 and date to December 7, 1942.

- 1 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 95 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

could expect an assignment to another area. On the basis
of these verbal instructions and the weather conditions
prevailing I accordingly sent a dispatch to COMSUBPAC
reporting the bad weather, and that I was heading out
with fuel for five thousand miles and requesting in-
structions.
1820 K While running with flood valves closed in order to get
more buoyancy in the heavy seas, one or more of the
flood valves on the starboard side came open and the
ship took a thirty degree list to that side. This
caused loss of lubricating oil suction on all engines
and they had to be stopped. Luckily there was enough
pressure in the hydraulic system to close the exhaust
valves so no engines were flooded. As the auxiliary
load had been on the auxiliary engines this sudden
stoppage meant loss of that power and it was some
time before the hydraulic plant could be started and
all flood valves opened and tanks blown with low pressure
air.
1830 K Ship righted and engines on propulsion. After this
experience we always rode the vents when on the surface.

December 22, 1942
0143 K Crossed area boundary.
1736 K As wind and sea had moderated upon surfacing, turned
to northward and awaited instructions.
2126 K Having received orders from Commander Task Force SEVEN
to proceed into area when weather permitted, set course
West.

December 23, 1942
0545 K Reentered area in Lat. 38°-42' N.
1736 K After surfacing and obtaining fix found that we had
experienced a strong southerly set. Accordingly, this
was taken into account in setting course for the North-
west corner of the area.

December 24, 1942
1537 K Sound reported propeller bearing 355° relative
which proved to be a small sampan (Contact No. 4).
1547 K Two more sampans sighted (Contacts No. 5 and 6).

December 25, 1942
0357 K Having worked out a 0300 K fix, the first one in 33
hours, we found ourselves up in Area ____. Immediately
turned South and ran for ____ at maximum speed.

- 4 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 97 —
## U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

**CONFIDENTIAL**
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

— page 100 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

1735 K Angle on the bow 0° and a bone in her teeth. Went deep (200 feet).
1737 K A pattern of 5 depth charges exploded.
1742 K Two more depth charges.
1753 K And another two. All attacks were close and shook the ship up a bit,
       particularly in the after rooms, breaking a few light bulbs but doing
       no serious damage.
       Due to the fact that the second and third attacks came promptly after
       starting the trim pump it was not used again but a pressure was built
       up in No. 3 Auxiliary Tank and we were on going deep but never settled
       below 240 feet. Escort used Echo Ranging after attack until about
1855 K when she was last heard.
1915 K Came to periscope depth and could see nothing.
1925 K Made search with SJ RADAR, no contact.
1930 K Surfaced and set out in pursuit of convoy attempting to repeat the
       New Year's exploit.
2250 K It had become apparent by this time that we could not catch this con-
       voy so a dispatch was sent to COMSUBPAC reporting the two convoys seen
       that afternoon and the results to date.
2348 K Having cleared the above dispatch changed course radically to clear
       that part of area and get out to sea for a day's rest.

January 4, 1942
No contacts.

January 5, 1943
0300 K Entered Area ____ in accordance with orders received December 25th.

January 6, 1943
0329 K While closing the coast made positive RADAR contact, range 6000 yards,
       330° relative (Contact No. 29). Went to battle stations, turned to
       put target astern and track in accordance with doctrine. Lost con-
       tact before we could determine target's course and speed.
0350 K Turned to close target and attempt to regain contact. Immediately ran
       into dense and driving snow squall.
0355 K Gave up chase and turned to Eastward at steerage way. Brilliant ball
       of St. Elmo's Fire on SJ antenna, smaller balls on tips of SD
       antenna and a line of fire along the entire length both wing antennae.
       This persisted for over half an hour.
0447 K Sighted a light sharp on the port bow. Changed course to right and
       attempted to run around it to South. This light was seen first as
       white, then red, then green and alternated red and green with sometimes
       red and green both showing. She could not be dropped and kept closing
       though she could not be picked up on RADAR. Believing this vessel to
       be a small fast patrol craft at

- 9 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 105 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

PART V VESSELS SIGHTED Cont'd
CONTACT DATE TIME TYPE POSITION COURSE SPEED
#23 1/1 0846K 9 Ship convoy sighted 39-11 N 015 8.5
(Attack #2) previous day. 141-04 E

#24 1/2 1626K Steam Trawler 300 ton 38-41 N 000 10
smoking. Flying Rising 141-42 E
Sun. Probably patroling.

#25 1/2 1915K 4 Sampans 38-36 N --- ---
141-53 E

#26 1/3 1345K Same as contact #24 38-31 N 180 10
141-37 E

#27 1/3 1505K About 6 masts south- 38-33 N 170 9
bound off OSU SAKI 141-34 E

#28 1/3 1700K 8 freighters 2000 ton 38-26 N 005 10
to 5000 tons in loose 141-40 E
2 column convoy.
Escort was one CHIDORI
Torpedo Boat. Escort
was about 2000 yards
outboard seaward column.

#29 1/6 0329K Positive Radar Contact 41-09 N 170 12
6000 yards, 265 t. 141-49 E

#30 1/6 0447K Light. First sighted 41-10 N 190 13
as white, subsequently 142-01 E
seen as red, then green,
then both.

NOTE: Many more Sampans, perhaps a hundred, were sighted
both day and night. Almost inevitably (except in
foulest weather) these were sighted in the morning
as vessel closed coast for day's patrol and in even-
ing after surfacing as PORPOISE moved to seaward for
battery charge. They were sighted singly and in
large numbers. Only one darkened Sampan was sighted
at night (he was off KINKASAN). The single light
carried by these Sampans is yellowish light orange
in color and appears to be long and slender as
though it were from a Welsbach Mantel Lantern with
a globe possibly 6" in diameter and 18" high. The

- 14 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 106 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

NOTE; policy was to give them a wide berth to avoid having
Cont'd position reported. It is most probable that PORPOISE
was seen or heard on one or more occasions by these
numerous craft. It is felt that these hundreds of
sturdy seagoing small craft are potentially a highly
effective anti-submarine fleet. If and when they
are armed with an anti-tank gun or small torpedoes,
it is believed that they would be a serious menace
to our submarines on the surface. The SJ RADAR does
not normally detect these Sampans.

PART VI AIRCRAFT SIGHTED.

CONTACT | DATE | TIME | TYPE | POSITION | COURSE | ALT
---|---|---|---|---|---|---
#1 | 12/26 | 0825K | Pontoon Scout. | 39-24 N | --- | 1000
| | | Observation, off | 142-05 E | |
| | | FUNAKOSHI WAN | | |
#2 | 1/3 | 1627K | Same | 38-29 N | West | 1000
| | | | 141-40 E | |

- 15 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 109 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

An attempt will be made to correct the above deficiencies
during the coming refit period.

It has been found impossible to keep the torpedo tube impulse
air bottles charged over a period of time due to leaks.

The stadimeter attachment on the attack periscope was dam-
aged and made inoperative early in the patrol due to the handle
striking the cut out switch in the well.

The Drain and Trim Pumps are extremely noisy, especially
at deep submergence. On second depth charging 6500 pounds of
water was blown from No. 3 auxiliary to avoid use of pumps.

Bow and stern plane line shafting and gearing make a
terrific racket whenever operated. These last two items, pumps
and planes, MUST be silenced before any further operations in
enemy waters. (See report of sound survey made by Submarine
Base, PEARL HARBOR prior to departure for this patrol.)

PART XI RADIO AND RADAR PERFORMANCE

Operation of all units was normal. No radio interference
was noted and all schedules while surfaced were copied. Our
transmissions were made to Radio San Francisco and to VHF9
Australia from the area. We were not able to contact Radio
Honolulu.

The last message received was RITUAL, and the last message
sent was PICKLE.

The SD and SJ RADARS performed exceptionally well. They
were serviced while submerged and the oscilloscope and OQ tube
Tester proved invaluable in locating difficulties quickly and
in preventing serious breakdowns. No time out for repairs was
taken while the units were in service. A continuous RADAR watch
was stood on the SJ while on the surface at night to the extent
of over 450 hours of operation. The SD was manned during all
daylight surface runs. The SJ was ineffective against small
sampans beyond 3000 yards. The maximum range obtained with the
SJ was 46,000 yards on SEYAKI YAMA (2385'). The SD obtained
landfalls from 16 to 28 miles.

It is recommended that rubberized cloth or painted canvas
covers be provided for semi-permanent covering of all radar
units exposed to water or excessive moisture, i.e., units in
the conning tower, etc.

- 18 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 112 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

REMARKS

As a matter of information the following sustained speeds may be
expected from U.S.S. PORPOISE for average sea conditions:

One Engine 8.5 knots
Two Engines 10.5 knots
Three Engines 12.0 knots
Four Engines 13.5 knots

Fuel consumption will average 65 gallons/eng./hr. for speeds given
above.

The installation of negative tank has reduced the average diving time
by about 10 seconds but the best that still can be expected is 65 seconds.
In heavy seas this is increased to about 3 minutes with one occasion when
it took 5 minutes to submerge. The ship was in trim after getting under.

The jungle cloth winter clothing with rain proof parka and overhauls
has proved to be good with the exception of the mittens supplied. These
mittens rapidly become water logged and practically useless as far as
protection goes.

No suitable opportunity was presented for the use of the deck torpedo
tubes. So far as can be ascertained, the torpedoes in these tubes suffered
no harm and after a month at sea, deep submergence, and depth charging on
two occasions are in good condition.

-21- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 113 —
FC5-4/A16-3 SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
Serial 027 February 9, 1943.
CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
Comsubdiv 44 Conf. ltr.
FB5-44/A16-3, serial 022
of February 7, 1943.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE, Comments on Fourth War Patrol.

1. The comments of the Division Commander are con-
curred in.

2. In connection with the attack on the convoy on
January 1, 1943, it should be noted that firing at two or more
overlapping, moving targets is not the same as firing at an
elongated target of equivalent length. This is particularly
true if the targets are at considerably different ranges as in
this case.

3. Three radar contacts were lost after the sub-
marine turned away to commence tracking. Since the maximum
range should not greatly exceed that at which contact is made,
a complete turn away by the submarine so as to put the bearing
directly astern, will frequently result in a loss of contact.

4. The matter of the leaking outboard exhaust valves
will be made the subject of separate correspondence.

Copy to:
Comsubdiv 44
CO PORPOISE

ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 114 —
FB5-44/A16-3
Serial ( 022 )
CONFIDENTIAL

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR (ce)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
February 7, 1943.

From : The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FOUR.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Fourth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. The Fourth War Patrol of the PORPOISE extended from
November 30, 1942, to January 15, 1943, a period of forty-six days.
Twenty-one days were spent in patrol areas. Stormy weather prevented
offensive operations during four of the twenty-one days in the areas.
Departure from patrol station was caused by lack of fuel.

2. The PORPOISE made three attacks and fired eight torpedoes
which resulted in three hits for a score of 37.5%. Comments on attacks
are as follows:

(a) Attack No. 1. - 31 December.

The firing of torpedoes on this attack does not appear
to be warranted because of the small size of target and
excessive range.

(b) Attack No. 2. - 1 January.

The attack on the convoy on the morning of 1 January
was well executed. No mention is made in the patrol report
as to what happened to the fourth torpedo, but is is
assumed it missed the third ship fired upon that morning.

(c) Attack No. 3. - 3 January.

It is unfortunate that the Commanding Officer found it
necessary to fire upon the escort thereby making known his
presence and spoiling his chances for attacking the convoy.
The Commanding Officer's opinion that the torpedoes ran
under the target is concurred in. PORPOISE torpedoes did
not have latest modification to depth mechanism and when
fired at such a short range at a shallow draft vessel the
torpedoes undoubtedly ran too deep to hit.

- 1 -

ENCLOSURE ((C))

— page 116 —
Okay, I will transcribe the text from the image.

Here's the transcription:

FB5-44/A16-3
Serial 022

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Fourth War Patrol - Comment on.

— page 117 —
[STAMP: RECEIVED]
[STAMP: ONI MAIL ROOM]

[STAMP: 1943 MAY 14 AM 10 33]

SUBMARINE FORCE,
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0530

He
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
April 24, 1943.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 169
U.S.S. PORPOISE - FIFTH WAR PATROL.

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To :
Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject War Patrol Report.
(B) Comsubdiv 43 Conf. ltr. FB5-43/
A16-3 Serial 062 of April 16, 1943.
(C) Comsubron 4 Conf. ltr. FC5-4/A16-3
Serial 087 of April 19, 1943.

1. This the Fifth War Patrol of the PORPOISE, resulted in
many contacts but only one attack. The comments of the Squadron and
Division Commanders attached hereto are concurred in.

2. The Commanding Officer's statement regarding distrust
in the SJ radar is not concurred in. It is true that false contacts
can be made on low flying clouds and particularly thunderheads.
False contacts can also be expected from heavy rain or snow squalls.
Dispite these possibilities of false contacts, experienced radar
operators should be able to identify them by their appearance on the
screen. Further more careful analysis by the Radar Officer or the
Officer-of-the-Deck utilizing a radar plot, these contacts can usual-
ly be readily identified. The course and speed of such contacts vary
erratically and, in addition, the echo picture ordinarily does not
remain constant as in the case from a ship contact.

3. It is to be regretted that more targets were not attack-
ed. The PORPOISE is credited with inflicting the following damage
to the enemy:
DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C

BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72] [STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

| Sunk |
|---|
| 1 Freighter | 3,000 tons |
| | [UNCLEAR: illegible] |

[SIGNATURE: O. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.]
[HANDWRITTEN: (16-E-2)]
[STAMP: MAY 16 1943]
[HANDWRITTEN: A16-3(23)/SS172]
[HANDWRITTEN: 5 5]

(Distribution and Authentication
on next page)

[HANDWRITTEN: Filmed]
[HANDWRITTEN: 49073]

— page 118 —
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16)                                                              He
Serial 00530                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                            San Francisco, California,
CONFIDENTIAL                                                April 24, 1943.

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 169
U.S.S. PORPOISE - FIFTH WAR PATROL.

Subject:        U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

DISTRIBUTION:
(1M-43)
List III: SS
Special:
P1(5), EN3(5), Z1(5),
Comsublant (2), X3(1),
Comsubsowespat (2),
Subschool, NL (2),
Comtaskfor 72 (2),
Comsubron 50 (2),
Comsopac (2),
CincLant (2),
Comtaskfor 16 (1).
[SIGNATURE: E. R. Swinburne]
E. R. SWINBURNE,
Flag Secretary.

— page 119 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
He
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.,
April 15, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol
Period from February 26, 1943 to April 15, 1943
Operation Order No. 31-43

PROLOGUE
Arrived MIDWAY on January 15, 1943 from Fourth War Patrol. Commenced refit
on January 16, 1943 by Submarine Base personnel assisted by relief crew and ship's
company. Completed refit January 30, 1943. Scheduled readiness for sea February
4, 1943. Not depermed nor wiped; no training period.

On the evening of February 4, 1943 the North rotor casing of the gyro compass
(Arma Mark VI) lost vacuum to 10 inches. Efforts of ship's force to repair over-
night proved ineffective and departure was delayed one day while Submarine Base
personnel made repairs.

FEBRUARY 6, 1943
0750 Y
Departed MIDWAY at dawn in accordance with Operation Order 17-43
and at
set course to follow assigned track to station. In first twelve
hours at sea have shorted out fourteen of the sixteen heating elements
in the two vapor compression stills, overhauled this refit by Sub-
marine Base.

FEBRUARY 8, 1943
Having crossed Date line dropped one day and set clocks to Zone
minus 12 time and date to February 8th.
Running on surface except for dawn dive.
Still unable to maintain circulating water to No. 1 and 2 main en-
gines when started right after surfacing or when tanks are blown
during the day to take list off the ship.
Herein, an oil slick all day, cannot stop it nor find source.

FEBRUARY 9, 1943
Within ordinary range of JAP air patrols from WAKE. Still have oil
slick with us. Running on surface. Made check of all valves connect-
ed with fuel oil system. All tight but found air in reserve fuel
ballast tank 4A. Evidently the hull stop is leaking. Vented from
topside by means of salvage air connection. Believe that pounding
in nest at MIDWAY plus working of ship in seaway have opened up seams
or rivets.

-1-
ENCLOSURE (A)

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CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. PORPOISE He

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

1400 M Made dive to test for oil leaks and try to stop. Still
1700 M as bad as ever.
        Due to seriousness of oil leak and resultant slick de-
        cided to reverse course and head back for MIDWAY for
        repairs; at the same time shift oil out of the suspect-
        ed tank, 4A, in attempt to stop the slick. As this
        shift of fuel requires placing the ship in a condition
        unable to dive it was postponed until af-
        ter dark.

        Troubles in last twenty-four hours:

        1. Piston seizure in No. 2 Auxiliary Engine.(No spares)
        2. Stuck injector in No. 3 Main Engine. Repaired.
        3. Commutation shift and flash-over in No. 1 Main
           Generator. Temporary repairs.
        4. JENSEN, Henry Basil, Jr., EM2c, eyes burnt by flash
           over. Under treatment.
        5. No. 2 H.P. Air Compressor out of commission.
           Repaired.
        6. Ice Machine out of commission. Under repair.
        7. Governor out of No. 1 Auxiliary Engine. Repaired.
        8. Fuel oil leaking overboard.
        9. No. 2 I.C. Motor Generator burnt out starting resis-
           tance. Unable to repair because panel is inaccessi-
           ble.

FEBRUARY 10, 1943

        Made dawn dive and on surfacing found oil slick as bad
        as ever despite empty 4A. I considered that the ship
        was in an unfit condition to operate offensively and
        therefore continued toward MIDWAY at maximum sustained
        speed reporting to Commander Submarines, PACIFIC FLEET
        my action and the reason therefore.
0935 M Message receipted for.
1230 M Received orders to proceed direct to PEARL and report
        positions.
        Cut out No.1 Main Engine. Its generator flashed-over
        so badly as to start a fire and burn part of the brush
        rigging.
1548 M Sent required report of positions.

FEBRUARY 10, 1943

        Repeated date due to crossing Date Line. Making 11.3
        knots on three engines at 700 Kws each. Usual trade
        wind weather and head seas.

        -2- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 121 —
[STAMP: RECEIVED
ONI MAIL ROOM
H]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1943 MAY 14 AM 10 33]

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

FEBRUARY 11 and 12, 1943

     Proceeding to PEARL.

FEBRUARY 13, 1943.

     Negative tank flood valve refused to open against sea
     pressure at 100 feet and holding coil on No. 1 Air
     Conditioning Machine burnt out.

FEBRUARY 14, 1943

0718 Y Sighted PBY about 8 miles to Southward on a Westerly
          course, altitude 2000 feet. Apparently she did not
          see us as she kept on her course. Position 21-08N.,
          161-47 W.

FEBRUARY 15, 1943

     Arrived PEARL HARBOR and defueled. Drydocked in U.S.S.
     ARD-1 from Feb. 16 to 19, 1943 inclusive for emergency
     repairs to fuel oil tanks and limited refit by repair
     force, Submarine Base. Received three days of training.
     Readiness for sea February 26, 1943.

PART I NARRATIVE

FEBRUARY 26, 1943

1305 VW Departed PEARL HARBOR and joined escort off entrance.
          Set course for JOHNSTON ISLAND. At dark released es-
          cort.

FEBRUARY 27, 1943

     Unless otherwise noted PORPOISE makes a dawn dive
     daily, going down about an hour prior to sunrise and
     surfacing after good daylight.
1320 W Radar contact on SD at one mile, plane not seen, sky
          overcast. Contact moved out rapidly and was lost at
          8 miles. Lat. 19-38.5 N., Long. 162-04 W.
2037 X No. 3 main generator tripped out. Inspection showed
          no signs of flash-over though No. 1 shows it. Genera-
          tors clean except for substance which looks like seal-
          ing wax. This wax has been used by Subase, PEARL to
          fill counter sink holes for bolt heads on brush holders and is
          melting out. Have ordered 600 KWs as maximum power to
          be put on generators except in emergency. Consider
          that all main generators should be pulled for major
          overhaul at next refit.

-3- ENCLOSURE (A)

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U.S.S. PORPOISE
CONFIDENTIAL He

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

FEBRUARY 28, 1943
1308 X Made training dive. Had constructed a target of three
          wooden boxes which we left on surface.
1335 X Made battle surface. Target was too small and 3" gun
          miss fired on first round. All we accomplished was
          training in manning guns and discovery of material
          failures. Well worth while. Breechtompion 1 gun
          found cracked and broken. Repaired firing mechanism.
1430 X Received modification of Operation Order requiring POR-
          POISE fuel to capacity at JOHNSTON providing it would
          not leave that station seriously short and if fuel was
          suitable.

MARCH 1, 1943
          While approaching JOHNSTON ISLAND found extensive shoal
          or shoals to the East and Southeast of the Island. So
          far as we know these have not been previously reported.
          Least depth 26 fathoms. Complete data in navigational
          part of this report.
0655 X Sighted plane to Westward.
0750 X Sighted JOHNSTON ISLAND.
0844 X While entering the outer part of the Channel an attempt
          was made to walk back the anchor to the water's edge.
          At this time the capstan clutch slipped and the anchor
          took charge. The ship was making two-thirds speed, 9
          knots, and although immediately backed emergency could
          not be stopped until 25 fathoms of chain was out. Up-
          on heaving up it was found that the shackle at the im-
          pending shot had parted and the anchor lost in 7
          fathoms, coral bottom.
          Position 16-43-20 N.
                   169-20-26 W.
          Bearings SAND ISLAND Fire Control Tower 018° T.
0912 X Moored starboard side to SAND ISLAND. Dispatch report
          to Commander Submarines, PACIFIC FLEET in reply to his
          queries and full report with pictures and chart forward-
          ed by airmail. Copy of latter report affixed hereto
          as Appendix B.
1136 X Air raid alert on station. Secured fueling, went to
          battle stations surface and prepared to get underway.
          Did not move as there is not sufficient water in lagoon
          which has a restricted turning basin, and it takes at
          least a half hour to get clear of the channel into
          waters which is deep enough to dive. Considered POR-
          POISE safer under the guns of the Island than at some
          miles distance where she would still be helpless to
          maneuver.

-4- ENCLOSURE (A)

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CONFIDENTIAL                               U.S.S. PORPOISE                 He

                               U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

1151 X                         Secured.
1410 X                         Underway.
1445 X                         Clear of 100 fathom curve, set course for MARSHALL IS-
                               LANDS.

MARCH 2, 1943

0915 X                         Sighted PBY about 6 miles to North on a Westerly course.
0917 X                         Plane headed toward us. Circled several times and sent
                               us message that we were leaving no oil slick. Had ask-
                               ed JOHNSTON to do that if they saw us so it was good
                               news.
0953 X                         Plane stood off to Westward.

March 5, 1943

                               Having crossed Date Line dropped March 4th from calen-
                               dar.

March 6, 1943

                               First all day dive.
                               Entered Area.
                               From this time, unless otherwise noted PORPOISE was on
                               surface at night and submerged during daylight.

MARCH 7, 1943

2141 L                         Passed South of MEJIT ISLAND and North of WOTJE.
                               Made radar contact, range 11,800 yards, bearing 046°
                               True, relative. Went to battle stations.
2150 L                         Identified contact by sight as LIKIEP ATOLL. Secured
                               from battle stations.

MARCH 8, 1943

                               Standing to Westward on all available engines in order
                               to get to Northward of ROI ISLAND during daylight.
0903 L (Air                    Sighted scout plane, distance 8 miles, bearing 180° T.
Contact #4)
1510 L(Con-                    Sighted two puffs of smoke bearing 135° T. and changed
tact No.1)                     course to that bearing in order to close.
1552 L                         Not having been able to see any further evidence of
                               ships resumed Westerly course.
                               After surfacing set course to pass around Westerly side
                               of KWAJALEIN ATOLL.

                               -5-
                               ENCLOSURE (A)

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE
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U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

MARCH 9, 1943

1245 L Steering courses to be across the KWAJALEIN-JALUIT lanes
Northwest of NAMU during daylight.
Obtained fix on NAMU ISLAND which showed that current
had set us too far to the Eastward. Changed course to
West.
1628 L (Con- Sighted Southbound ship, bearing 317° T. Went to bat-
tact #2) tle stations and commenced approach. Unable to close
to attack range, minimum range 8250 yards.
1806 L Gave up approach and changed course to Eastward.
As this was the first time that we had encountered an
escort which trailed her convoy it was thought that she
might be getting ready to return to KWAJALEIN after
dark. In order to avoid running into escort if this
assumption was correct and to gain the advantage of the
dark side of the horizon as soon as possible, it was
decided to run around the Eastern side of NAMU ATOLL
and gain a position ahead of the target for a dawn at-
tack on the 10th.
1845 L Surfaced and set off to accomplish this, using Radar
to keep a safe distance offshore.
2340 L (Con- Made Radar contact on target, bearing 216° T., distance
tact #3) 10,950 yards. As there was not room to pass between
target and WOTJA ISLAND without probable detection,
course was changed to pass astern of target keeping
contact and tracking by Radar.

MARCH 10, 1943

0223 L Having determined enemy course to be 145° T., speed
8-9 knots, secured tracking. At this time the target
bore 011° T., distance 15,000 yards. The Executive
Officer urged that an immediate attack be made but the
Commanding Officer decided to adhere to the original
plan of an attack after dawn and course was accordingly
set to be ahead of the target at that time.
0623 L (Con- Sighted target bearing 325° T. Escort still trailing
tact #4) AK. Went to battle stations and started approach.
As the target was following a wide sweeping zig plan,
PORPOISE failed to get close enough to attack, minimum
range 4600 yards. This failure must be charged to an
error in judgement of the Commanding Officer. Second
guessing, it is apparent that the attack should have
been started at 0223 L as urged by the Executive Offi-
cer when a favorable position had been attained.
0740 L Secured from battle stations and set course to pass
North of JALUIT ATOLL.
0942 L Sighted plane bearing 144° T. Evidently air coverage
for convoy just missed.
After surfacing set course to be off Southeast Pass
of JALUIT ATOLL during daylight of the 11th.
-6- ENCLOSURE (A)

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CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. PORPOISE He.
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

MARCH 11, 1943

0906 L(Con-Submerged patrol off JALUIT.
tact #5) First sighted armed Japan patrol. She kept running back
and forth all day and was a confounded nuisance as the
sea was glassy with a light swell making periscope ex-
posure hazardous.
1635 L(Con-Sound picked up screws bearing 325° T. Could see nothing
tact #6) by periscope until
1640 L at which time the tops of the masts of a destroyer were
first sighted against the land background.
1650 L Went to battle stations. The DD was patrolling in wide
sweeps but approaching PORPOISE on the line of bearing of
Southeast Entrance.
1655 L Changed course to 165° T. and went to 100 feet to allow the
DD to pass over PORPOISE. Range 4,000 yards. Still noth-
ing seen behind her. After going deep, sound reported the
DD on a steady bearing on the starboard quarter and get-
ting closer, then she drew over to the port quarter, then
back to the starboard to port once again where the bearing
stayed constant. All the time sound kept reporting that
she was closing and that nothing else could be heard.
Sound conditions were extraordinary this day. Initial con-
tact had been at more than 15,000 yards. It was apparent
that the DD could not be closing all the time so we came
up for a look.
1739 L Sighted seaplane tender bearing 010° T., range 11,000
yards, course 080, with the DD astern of her. Changed
course to close. This vessel looked like a KATORI class
cruiser which had had everything on the main deck abaft
the stack cleared away and a heavy tail mast stepped right
at the stern. Target was zig-zagging between 080 and 125
until
1802 L at which time she was observed to be on course 350.
1807 L Changed course to North. Having completed turn at range
5,000 yards, bearing 081° T. with the DD now ahead of her.
She had evidently made a circle to allow her escort to get
ahead. Changed course to 135. This was the closest we
ever were to her.
1818 L Secured from battle stations, but continued tracking as
long as she was in sight. Best estimate of base course
was 135° T. speed 12-15 knots.
1846 L Surfaced and set off in hot pursuit at maximum speed.
2240 L SJ Radar out of commission.
2330 L SJ Radar repaired.

MARCH 12, 1943
Submerged at dawn and reversed course in order to meet
them if we had run past during darkness. No soap.

-7-
ENCLOSURE (A)

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE
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U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

MARCH 12, 1943 (Cont'd)

1615 L Surfaced. Set course to return to JALUIT for patrol on
         the 13th.
2000 L After making the forward tubes ready in the abortive at-
         tack of the 10th, No. 1 torpedo tube had been leaking at
         the muzzle door enough to require pumping the tube every
         15 minutes to prevent flooding the torpedo.
         Hove to and Lieutenant LYTLE went over the side in an at-
         tempt to restore the muzzle door gasket to its groove.
         Despite the calm sea the ship pitched too much to allow
         working underwater and the repairs had to be abandoned.

MARCH 13, 1943

         Conducted submerged patrol off Northeast side of JALUIT
         ATOLL.
0751 L (Air Sighted DAVE over ATOLL. Remained in the air until
         contact #6)
0908 L
0952 L (Con- Sighted armed Sampan patrol which went up and down the
         tact #7) coast all day.
0955 L Sighted MAVIS landing in lagoon.

MARCH 14, 1943

         Conducted submerged patrol along JALUIT-KWAJALEIN route
         Southwest of AILINGLAPLAP ATOLL.

MARCH 15, 1943

         Conducted submerged patrol off Southwest side of
         KWAJALEIN ATOLL.
0618 L(Con-Sighted ships inside Lagoon. During the day counted six
         tact #8) AP or AK at anchor. No traffic seen outside.
0625 L Sighted DAVE apparently on anti-submarine patrol off ATOLL.
         Took pictures of ATOLL, negatives being forwarded herewith

MARCH 16, 1943

0435 L(Con-Made Radar contact bearing 245° T., range 12,350 yards.
         tact #9) Started tracking and approach.
0510 L As the sky was getting bright behind us, submerged to
         Radar depth (36 feet) but lost Radar contact. Being un-
         able to pick up target by periscope at
0536 L Surfaced.
0541 L Sighted target again and submerged to periscope depth.
         Continued approach.
0711 L The target, a small AK without escort, having disappeared
         to the Northwest, surfaced and set off in chase with the
         intention of running around her to the Westward to get
         ahead, keeping contact by periscope.

-8-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 127 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. PORPOISE He
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

MARCH 16, 1943 (Cont'd)

0716 L Sighted target bearing 302° T., range 20,000 yards.
0744 L Lost sight of target, turned to close.
0824 L SD Radar contact at 8 miles. Lookout saw the plane coming
cut of the sun at about the same time and later identified
it as KATE.
0825 L Submerged to 150 feet. No hostile action by plane. Hav-
ing been estopped by air coverage this target was abandon-
ed.
After dark surfaced. Being already to Westward of area
and due to leave it by orders anyway, set course for TRUK.
Made dispatch report of failure to date, observations of
JALUIT and KWAJALEIN and an estimate of the amount of time
we could remain on new station based on fuel remaining.

MARCH 17-19, 1943

Standing to Westward passing 12 miles South of PONAPE.
Numerous Radar contacts, alarms and excursions, all of
which turned out to be rain squalls.

MARCH 20, 1943

Entered Area at daylight, on schedule.

MARCH 21, 1943

2102 K(Con-While standing to Westward with the intention of patrol-
tact #10) ling across the Southern traffic lanes out of TRUK dur-
ing the day sighted a ship bearing 345° T., distance 12,
000 yards. No Radar contact. The Commanding Officer was
of the opinion that she was a patrol craft but three oth-
er officers thought that she was a large worthwhile target
so estimating her speed as 10 knots, course 110° T. set
off at high speed to get ahead of her on the surface with-
out being sighted in the path of the moon.
2341 K Having attained the desired estimated position, 10,000
yards ahead and on enemy track slowed down to standard
speed and came to reverse of enemy's estimated course.
2350 K Radar contact bearing 300° T. Went to battle stations but
it proved to be just another rain squall.

MARCH 22, 1943

Continued back to Westward.
0324 K(Con-Sighted same vessel bearing 280° T., course 290°, speed
tact #11) 8 knots. This time she was definitely seen to be a small
patrol boat of the trawler type. Reversed course for a
short time to avoid her then submerged for daylight patrol
South of TRUK.

-9-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 128 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. PORPOISE
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U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

MARCH 23, 1943

Shifted to patrol Southwest of TRUK during the day.
2056 K(Con-Sighted ship on an Eastwardly course, bearing 250 T, dis-
tact #12) tance 10,000 yards. Went to battle stations and started
approach.
2100 K Radar picked up target at 9050 yards.
2106 K With range 7500 yards dived to avoid chance of detection
(Radar depth).
2130 K Lost sight and radar contact.
2133 K Stuck conning tower out and from bridge picked up target at
2136 K submerged and continued to close.
2142 K Target identified as patrol craft. Broke off approach as
she was too small to torpedo.
2208 K Surfaced.

MARCH 24, 1943

Conducted submerged patrol across Western approaches to
TRUK.
1036 K(Con-Sighted one AK (M.F.M.) with escort, only tops visible,
tact #13) headed for PIAANU PASS, bearing 010 T., range 16,000
yards. Went to battle stations and attempted to close.
1113 K Target passed out of sight.

MARCH 25, 1943.

Moved to patrol South of TRUK.
0328 K(Con-While closing the ATOLL sighted patrol boat bearing 100 T.
tact #13a) Maneuvered to avoid.
0900 K Sound reported propellers bearing 090 T.
0903 K(Con-Sighted DD bearing 108 T, range 9000 yards, course 200 T.,
tact #14) speed 20 knots. Could not close. Identified as MASHI
class.
1000 K(Con-Sighted two ships bound North for OTTA PASS, bearing 135o
tact #15) T., range 12,000 yards. Identified as an armed three is-
land AK (M.F.K.M.), a small tanker and a patrol boat es-
cort. Could not close.
1005 K Just after a long periscope exposure heard a depth charge
estimated to be about 1000 yards away. No ship that close
so must have been from aircraft.
1035 K Small armed Sampan appeared where we had been a half hour
before and fooled around for a while.
1103 K Heard explosion.
1104 K Heard explosion both quite some distance away.
1130 K(Con-Sighted two puffs of smoke to Southward. Set off to in-
tact #16) vestigate.

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ENCLOSURE (A)

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CONFIDENTIAL                               U.S.S. PORPOISE                                He

                               U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

MARCH 26, 1943 (Cont'd)

1245 K         Identified contact as an armed patrol craft of the catcher
               or sea going trawler type, patrolling East and West at 10
               knots, 235 rpm, on two hour legs. In sight off and on for
               the rest of the day.
1841 K         Surfaced and set off to the Eastward to run around the pa-
               trol boat.
1848 K(Air      Sighted lights of a plane over TRUK.
Contact #10)
1900 K         Sighted searchlight on TRUK. The Japs put on quite a dis-
               play, searchlights, star shells, and gun fire in all di-
               rections but it didn't add to my peace of mind.
2005 K         Radar contact bearing 347 T., range 13,150 yards.
2006 K(Con-    Sighted DD (?), very small angle on
tact #17)      bow and bone in her teeth. Went
               to battle stations and submerged to 150 feet. All the ac-
               tivity during the day and night and the fact that the DD
               appeared from the direction of TRUK headed directly for us
               convinced the Commanding Officer that we had been tracked
               and that the DD had been sent out for the kill. This turn-
               ed out to be false for she went on by without bothering us.
2057 K         Changed course to 030 T. to put DD on starboard quarter.
               While making this turn sound reported a new propeller bear-
               ing 100 T. with a curious chopping sound with a
               frequency of 72 beats per minute. It stopped from time to
               time but drew slowly aft until
2110 K         when it suddenly speed up to 150 rpm and grew louder on a
               steady bearing. Rigged ship for depth charging and ran
               silent. The noise slowed down and stopped. Propeller
               sounds resumed at 72 rpm and drew slowly aft, stopping
               from time to time.
2207 K         Surfaced with nothing in sight. Stood off to the South-
               east.

MARCH 27, 1943

               Shifted position to patrol across the TRUK-RABAUL lane at
               estimated daylight position circle for traffic from the
               South. Sighted searchlights on TRUK during the night.

MARCH 29, 1943

               Moved in closer to TRUK for the day. Sighted searchlights
               again during night.

MARCH 30, 1943

               Shifted position to patrol the Eastern Approaches during
               this day.

                                                                 -11-
                                                              ENCLOSURE (A)

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CONFIDENTIAL                               U.S.S. PORPOISE                               H6

                               U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

MARCH 31, 1943

                               As fuel was getting low moved East to the edge of the
                               Area in preparation to starting home.
1225 K(Con-Sighted small (1500 tons) AK(M.F.M.) with bridge and main-
tact #18) mast close together, base course 270, speed 14 knots, zig-
                               zagging, bearing 155, range 13,000 yards. Went to battle
                               stations and attempted to close. Minimum range 9,000
                               yards.
1335 K Secured from battle station.
1402 K(Con-Sound reported propellers bearing 015 T. Immediately
tact #19) sighted upper works of a large AK, similar to MANILA MARU,
                               with a two stack destroyer trailing as escort. Came to
                               normal approach course and attempted to close but we had
                               run so far to the South chasing the previous contact as to
                               make it hopeless. If contact No. 18 was not a decoy she
                               will certainly do until a decoy comes along for she pull-
                               ed PORPOISE out of a good position for attack on this con-
                               voy. Speed of convoy made an attempt at surface pursuit
                               useless.
1642 K Heard underwater explosion apparently 4-5 miles away.
                               Nothing in sight.
                               Due to approaching exhaustion of fuel departed Area this
                               night, reporting this fact to Commander Submarines, PACI-
                               FIC FLEET.

APRIL 1-3, 1943.

                               Homeward bound.

APRIL 4, 1943

1104 L Surfaced approximately 100 miles North by West from
                               ENIWETOK ATOLL to run on
1106 L(Con-Sighted ship bearing 149 T. Her course 303, speed 8.5
tact #20) knots. Submerged and commenced approach. Target a modern
                               looking AK of about 3,000 tons, armed, raked stem, cruiser
                               stern, (M.F.M.).

                               -12-                               ENCLOSURE (A)

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CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. PORPOISE
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U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

APRIL 4, 1943 (Cont'd)

1156 L. Fired torpedoes from tubes 2, 3, and 4.
Attack #1
Time Stop Watch Occurrence
43-50 Fired 2
44-02 Fired 3
44-11 Fired 4
44-11 Heavy explosion. First shot was pre-
mature. Numerous light explosions,
shell fire.
No. 4 torpedo hit.

47-00
White Light Method, longitudinal spread, points of aim ½ length ahead,
stack, ½ length astern.
When the first shot exploded prematurely, the slick was observed by
periscope. The target turned toward us and opened fire. The last
torpedo was observed at instant of striking by Executive Officer, who
stated that there was an immediate burst of a huge fire ball, like the
bomb hits on oil tanks at CAVITE, that hit the whole ship. She im-
mediately started to settle by the stern. Pictures were taken, nega-
tives forwarded herewith, and all officers and five men had a quick
look at her as she sank in four minutes. Depth set on torpedo was 14
feet, seas calm.

1215 L Surfaced, manned both .30 cal. and 20mm and closed wreckage. Two boats
were floating and as we approached the men in them jumped overboard and
hid amid the floatsam. Survivors were NOT fired upon.
Considering the probable early appearance of aircraft, stood off North-
east and at

1230 L Submerged. Changed course to 135 T.
1307 L(Con- Sighted vessel bearing 165 T. Went to battle stations and started ap-
tact #21) proach.

1320 L Target identified as small sea going steam trawler armed fore and aft.
Too small for torpedoes and too big for gun. Broke off attack and set
course for home. When reloading after attack, No. 2 torpedo tube was
found to leak at the muzzle door in the same manner as No. 1 so it too
was left without a torpedo.

APRIL 5, 1943

Proceeding to Eastward.

APRIL 6, 1943

Surfaced early to get a little extra Easting.

-13- (ENCLOSURE (A))

— page 132 —
CONFIDENTIAL                               U.S.S. PORPOISE - -                                HE

                                           U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

APRIL 6, 1943 (Cont'd)

1718 L                     Sighted ship bearing 035 T. on a Southeasterly course, range 20,000
                           yards, speed 12-14 knots, making wide zigs. Changed course to open
                           out and escape detection. At the same time started tracking with a
                           view toward getting ahead of her and attacking after dark.
1830 L                     Lost sight of target.
1835 L                     Changed course to 140 T., which was best estimate of course to put us
                           in contact by 2000 and in position to attack by 2030.
2106 L                     Not having made contact during search curve to cover courses further
                           to the East.
2200 L                     SJ Radar failed. Note: The only two times when this equipment failed
                           this patrol were when we were in chase of valuable targets and needed
                           it badly.
2300 L                     Having covered all courses and speeds of enemy which position and
                           speed of PORPOISE permitted, the chase was regretfully abandoned and
                           course set for TAONGI ATOLL. It is considered probable that the tar-
                           get sighted PORPOISE against the bright evening horizon and took eva-
                           sive action after dark.

APRIL 7, 1943

                           Attempted to close TAONGI ATOLL for daylight reconnaissance with the
                           idea of bombardment if suitable targets could be seen.
                           A strong current setting Westward prevented sighting.

APRIL 8, 1943

                           First day spent on surface on the way home.
                           The Pharmacist's Mate being very sick with Mumps, sent a message to
                           Commander Submarines, PACIFIC FLEET reporting action on the fourth,
                           patrols seen off TRUK, and requesting treatment for Mumps.
                           Received reply that afternoon.

APRIL 9-10, 1943

                           Running our Easting down against heavy head seas. Fuel consumption
                           very high.

APRIL 10, 1943

                           Repeated data. Sent required report of positions and ETA JOHNSTON
                           ISLAND.

APRIL 11, 1943

                           It looks touch and go whether we arrive at JOHNSTON or our fuel gives
                           out first.

                                                               -14-                               ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 133 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE
No
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

APRIL 12, 1943

1052 X Moored starboard side to dock at JOHNSTON ISLAND. Fueled sufficient
to reach PEARL.
1510 X Underway for PEARL. Left required position reports for transmission
by Naval Air Station.

APRIL 15, 1943

Arrived Submarine Base, PEARL HARBOR, the 49th day.

PART II WEATHER

In general the weather was excellent. A few heavy rain squalls and a
few days and nights were overcast but not abnormal.

PART III TIDAL INFORMATION

In the MARSHALL ISLANDS, South of Truk Atoll and passage between, the
currents experienced were contrary to some extent from that reported in var-
ious publications. The most apparent difference was experienced while sub-
merged. The following tabulated data is given as found on this patrol.

| TIME | LOCATION | DRIFT & SET | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1825 L to | Between LIKIEP ATOLL AND | 3.5 knots 060°T | Running on surface |
| 2440 L Mar.7 | WOTJE ATOLL | | Wind and sea NE. |
| 8 March | North of KWAJALEIN ATOLL | 0.4 knots 080°T | Submerged* Surface |
| (L) | | | Wind and sea Easterly. |
| 9 March | Between KWAJALEIN ISLAND | 1.4 knots 056°T | Submerged* Wind and |
| (L) | AND N.MU ISLAND | | sea Easterly. |
| 9 March | Between N.MU ATOLL and | 1.0 knots 070°T | Surface. Wind and sea |
| (L) | ODIA ATOLL | | Easterly. |
| 10 March and | Between ODIA ATOLL AND | 0.5 knots to 1.0 | Surface and submerged* |
| 14 March (L) | JALUIT ATOLL | knots. 085°T. | Wind and sea Easterly. |
| 11 March (L) | Off S.E. Pass JALUIT ATOLL | 0.4 knots South | Submerged* Dead Calm. |
| 11 March and | Between JALUIT ATOLL and | 0.6 knots 120°T. | Surface and submerged* |
| 14 March (L) | MAKIN ISLAND | | Wind and sea Easterly. |
| 16 March to | Passage between KWAJALEIN | 1.0 knots to 1.5 | Surface and submerged* |
| 21 March (L) | ATOLL and LOSAP ATOLL. Passing | knots. N.E. | Wind and sea Easterly. |
| | 12 miles South of PONAPE ISLAND | | |
| 21 March to | South of TRUK ATOLL. | 1.0 knots 090°T. | Surface and Submerged* |
| 23 March (M) | | | Wind and sea Easterly. |
| 26 March to | South of Lat. 6-15 N. | 1.0 knots S.E. | |
| 30 March (M) | | | |

*NOTE The set and drift was most apparent submerged. Generally about 25% of
the calculated current was effective while running on the surface.

-15-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 134 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE
Hu

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

PART IV NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

(A) No navigational aids were sighted.

(B) On approaching JOHNSTON ISLAND from the East, a shoal varying from 22
fathoms to 100 fathoms was found, bearing 080° T. to 086°T. Distance 37 miles
from JOHNSTON ISLAND a depth of 22 fathoms on bearing 080° T. dropping off to
about 100 fathoms on bearing 086° T., distance 37 miles from JOHNSTON ISLAND.

(C) It is believed that TRUK ATOLL and LOSAP ATOLL are not accurately
charted on H.O. Chart 5416. Just how much they are out cannot be stated but they
are believed to be plotted from five to ten miles too far East by North.

-16- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 135 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE
REPORT OF FIFTH WAR PATROL

| NO. | TIME | CONTACTS POSITION | COURSE & SPEED | DESCRIPTION | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1510 I | 9-34 N. | Unknown | Two large puffs | Bearing 135 T. Appeared |
| | 8 March | 167-12 E. | | smoke. Appeared | to be at North Pass |
| | | | | from ships. | KWAJALEIN. |
| 2 | 1628 I | 8-76 N. | Zig-Zag Base 140 T. | One AK about 2000 T. | Periscope approach failed. |
| | 9 March | 17-04 E. | Speed 8 - 12 knots. | (Similar to | Escort stayed behind AK, |
| | | | | Page 153). One | well about the beam. |
| | | | | escort. Resembled | |
| | | | | a converted yacht. | |
| 3 | 2340 I | 7-32 N. | Same | Same | Radar Contact. Bearing |
| | 9 March | 168-27 E. | | | 216 T. Range 10,950 yds. |

— page 136 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
1d

PART V - CONTACTS (Cont'd)

| NO. | TIME | POSITION | COURSE | SPEED | DESCRIPTION | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 0952 L | Off East Pt. and N.E. | Vari. | Vari. | Patrol Boat. Sampan type. See | Controlled off East Pt. and N.E. |
| | | 13 March JALUIT ATOLL | | | contact #5. | entrance. Was seen and heard |
| | | | | | | several times during day. |
| 8 | 0618 L | KWAJALEIN ATOLL | | | Six enemy AK or AP, 4000 to 6000 | Appeared |
| | | 15 March at KWAJALEIN | | | tons each. Possibly other ships | to be going alongside docks at |
| | | ISLAND | | | to be tops of mast alongside | KWAJALEIN ISLAND. Apparently had |
| | | | | | at KWAJALEIN. Saw what appeared | recently arrived. |
| | | | | | KWAJALEIN ISLAND inside lagoon. | |
| 9 | 0435 L | 7-57 N | Zig- | 12 kts. | Enemy, small AK(M.F.M.) about | Picked up by SJ Radar, bearing |
| | | 16 March 165-25 E | zag. | | 2500 tons. Possibly a "decoy" or | 310°T. Dist. 12,350 yds. Lost |
| | | | | | "Q" ship. Not escorted. | radar contact upon diving at |
| | | | | | | 0510. |
| 10 | 2102 K | 6-45 N | 110°T | 8 kts. | Enemy Patrol Boat PC type. | Sighted at range of 10,000 yards. |
| | | 21 March 151-55 E | | | | Worked up by radar bearing 235°T, |
| | | | | | | range 9,050 yards. |
| 11 | 0324 K | 6-50 N | 290°T | 8 kts. | Same as above (10). | Same as above (10). |
| | | 22 March 151-50 E | | | | |
| 12 | 2056 K | 7-05 N | 090°T | 10 kts. | Enemy, one AK(M.F.M.). Escort, | Sighted through periscope at |
| | | 23 March 150-40 E | | | heavy patrol boat PC type. | range 16,000 yds. (about), bear- |
| | | | | | | ing 010°T. headed for West Pass, |
| | | | | | | Kwajalein Atoll. |
| 13 | 1036 K | 7-15 N | | | Enemy, one AK(M.F.M.). Escort, | Picked up by radar bearing |
| | | 24 March 150-50 E | | | heavy patrol boat PC type. | 235°T. Dist. 12,350 yds. Lost |
| | | | | | | radar contact upon diving at |
| | | | | | | 0510. |

[HANDWRITTEN: *13(a) See Page 6 after Contact #22.]

- 18 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

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```
[STAMP: RECEIVED]
[STAMP: ONI MAIL ROOM]
[STAMP: 1943 MAY 14 AM 10 33]

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol
PART V CONTACTS (Continued)

| No. | Time    | Position      | Course & Speed      | Description

— page 138 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
        PART V CONTACTS (Continued)

No | TIME | POSITION | COURSE & SPEED | DESCRIPTION | REMARKS
                                                                Ps
18 | 1225 K | 6-50 N. | Zig-zag, | Enemy AK about 1500 tons | Picked up by sound 185° T. at
   |        | 31 March | Course-270° T. | (M.F.M.), funnel, bridge and | 225. Observed by periscope,
   |        | 155-08 E. | Speed-14 knots. | mast close together. | (Overcast, raining)
   |        |          |                 | Proved to be a "Decoy" or | Range 10,000 yds or greater.
   |        |          |                 | "Q" Ship. Not escorted. (See |
   |        |          |                 | below). |
19 | 1402 K | 6-50 N. | Zig-zag, | Enemy AP similar to MANILA MARU | Picked up by sound bearing
   |        | 31 March | Course-270° T. | (208-J, Page 98) (M.F.M.). | 150 T. Observed by periscope,
   |        | 155-04 E. | Speed-14 knots. | Escorted by two stack destroyer. | Range 11,000 yds. Escort was
   |        |          |                 |                           | stationed behind AP as in
   |        |          |                 |                           | Contact 2.
20 | 1106 I | 13-11.5 N. | Course-303° T. | About 2000 to 3000 tons. See | Picked up by sound bearing 185° T. at
   |        | 4 April | Speed-8.5 kts. | photograph. Raked bow, | 225. Observed by periscope,
   |        | 161-57 E. |                 | cruiser stern. M.F.M. Armed. | (Overcast, raining)
   |        |          |                 |                           | Range 10,000 yds or greater.
21 | 1307 I | 13-11 N. | Variable | Patrol Boat (Converted Beago- | Made successful attack and
   |        | 4 April | Speed-6.5 kts. | ing Steam Trawler, armed for- | sank this ship with one
   |        | 162-02 E. |                 | ward and aft. | torpedo, hit sure.
   |        |          |                 |                           | PORPOISE avoided.
22 | 1718 I | 14-09 N. | Zig-zag, | AK or AP M.K.F.K.M. not ob- | Sighted while on surface
   |        | 6 April | Course-100° T. | served closely but appeared | at extreme range. Attempted
   |        | 167-13 E. | Speed-12 to | to be 6000 to 7000 tons. | to get ahead for attack
   |        |          | 14 knots. |                           | but failed.
[HANDWRITTEN: *]13 (a) | 0328K | 7-00 N. | Course-100° T. | Patrol Boat. Range | Same as Contact #10.
   |        | 26 March | Speed-8 to 10 | about 10,000 yds. | No Radar Contact.
   |        | 151-25E. | knots. | |

- 20 -
ENCLOSURE (4)

— page 139 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
PART IV AIR CONTACTS

No. | TIME | POSITION | COURSE & SPEED | DESCRIPTION | REMARKS | Ps
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
A-1 | 1320 X | 19-38.5 N | Unknown | Did not observe. | Overcast. |
| 27 Feb. | 162-04 E. | | | Contact on SD Radar, 3 miles. |
A-2 | 0655 X | 16-37 N. | Vari. | Friendly S.O.C. Air escort. | Exchanged |
| 1 March | 169-25 W. | | Altitude about 3000 feet. | recognition signals. |
A-3 | 0914 X | 16-12 N. | West. | Friendly PBY Air patrol. | Reported |
| 2 March | 170-48 E. | | Altitude about 2000 feet. | Bearing 180 T. |
| | | | | Plane flying low. |
A-4 | 0903 L | 9-35 N. | North. | Enemy Air Patrol Scouting | Bearing 180 T. |
| 8 March | 167-22 E. | | Plane similar to NAKAJIMA 95, | Distance about 8 miles. |
| | | | | altitude 1000 feet. "DAVE" | Plane flying low. |
A-5 | 0942 L | 7-32.5 N. | North. | Enemy Air Patrol. Float Type | Flying low over ATOLL and off S.E. |
| 10 March | 169-10 E. | | Seaplane NAKAJIMA 95, alti- | entrance. |
| | | | | tude about 3000 ft. "DAVE" | Landed in JALUIT ATOLL |
| | | | | | until 0908. |
A-6 | 0751 L | East Pt. | Vari. | Enemy Observation Plane, | Appeared to be making search off |
| 13 March | JALUIT ATOLL | | similar to NAKAJIMA 95, alti- | and just outside of |
| | | | | tude 1000 feet. "DAVE" | lagoon. |
| | | | | | Observed on SD Radar 8 miles, observed |
| | | | | | in sun about same time. |
A-7 | 0955 L | East Pt. | Vari. | Enemy Torpedo Bomber, low | Contact on SD Radar 8 miles. |
| 13 March | JALUIT ATOLL | | wing, one engine, similar to | by lookout. |
| | | | | MITSUBISHI 97, altitude about |
| | | | | 6000 feet. "KATE" |
A-8 | 0625 L | KAMAJALA IN | Vari. | Enemy Observation Plane, | Sighted upon surfacing at 1900. Ob- |
| 15 March | ISLAND | | similar to NAKAJIMA 95, alti- | served searchlight display, several |
| | | | | tude about 2000 feet, dis- | shells and gun fire on TRUK. |
| | | | | tance 6-8 miles. | stopped at about 1928. |
A-9 | 0824 L | 8-36 N. | West. | Could see only wing light, | [UNCLEAR: Sighted] |
| 16 March | 164-53 E. | | altitude about 2000 feet, | star shells and gun fire on TRUK. |
| | | | | (Could see only wing light, | stopped at about 1928. |
| | | | | similar to MITSUBISHI 97, | Activity |
| | | | | "KATE") |
A-10 | 1848K | 6-50 N. | North. | | |
| 26 March | 151-52 E. | | | |

ENCLOSURE (A)
- 21 -

— page 140 —
CONFIDENTIAL
SUMMARY OF SUBMARINE ATTACKS
SHIP U.S.S. PORPOISE He

| | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attack | ONE | : | : | : | : | : |
| Date | 4/4/43 | : | : | : | : | : |
| Location (Lat.) | 13-11.5N | : | : | : | : | : |
| (Long.) | 161-57E | : | : | : | : | : |
| Torpedoes Fired on each Attack | 3 | : | : | : | : | : |
| Hits | 1 | : | : | : | : | : |
| Number Sunk (Tonnage) | 3,000 | : | : | : | : | : |
| Number Damaged or probably Sunk | : | : | : | : | : | : |
| Type of Target | AK(ARMED) | : | : | : | : | : |
| Range - Yds. | 2575 | : | : | : | : | : |
| Periscope Depth | 57' | : | : | : | : | : |
| Surface Night | : | : | : | : | : | : |
| Deep Submergence | : | : | : | : | : | : |
| Estimated Draft Target | 15 ft. | : | : | : | : | : |
| Torpedo Depth Setting | 14 ft. | : | : | : | : | : |
| Bow or Stern Shot | Bow | : | : | : | : | : |
| Track Angle | 116 S | : | : | : | : | : |
| Gyro Angle | ZERO | : | : | : | : | : |
| Estimated Target Speed | 8.5 kts | : | : | : | : | : |
| Firing interval | 12 sec. | : | : | : | : | : |
| Spread - Amount and Kind | ½ ship | : | : | : | : | : |
| | length | : | : | : | : | : |
| | long. | : | : | : | : | : |

Remarks: Fired one 0 sec., fired two 13 sec., fired three 25 sec. at 24 sec.
heard first torpedo explode. 1 minute, 8 sec. heard click, 1 minute, 15
sec. heard click, 2 minutes, 25 sec. heard click and observed explosion
on targets stern and extremely large fireball. Target observed to sink
in 4 minutes after hit.

-22-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 142 —
CONFIDENTIAL                                                               Cs
Subject:         U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

                                                                152°E
                                          151°E
8°N -
                                                                North Pass
        50 -
                                Truk Islands
        40 -

        30 -
                                                                Northeast
                                                                Pass
                                                Moen
                                                Is.
                Picanu Pass
                Torres Is.                      Dublon Is.
                                                Fefan Is.
        20 -
                                                Uman Is.
        CIRCLE
        PATROL
        10 -
7°N -
                                                Kuop Is.
                                                Otta Pass
                                                Givry Is.
                                                South Is.

PN
                                                                ENCLOSURE (A)
        ← ENEMY PATROL
        -24°

— page 147 —
Rs
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
to the series of smaller pips not unlike those resulting from waves at a comparable distance. The echoes may be in evidence for a period of a few seconds or for ten or twelve minutes depending on the cloud formation. The range and bearing will probably change in quite regular steps as the cloud moves. Almost all of the echoes received from cloud formation appear over a relatively large number of degrees of azimuth, depending again on the size of the cloud. This latter effect may not be apparent immediately if other than the PRECISION sweep is used constantly.

ENCLOSURE (A)

[HANDWRITTEN: r]

— page 148 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol

Subject: SJ RADAR CONTACTS

DATE       TIME                BEARING   RANGE     TARGET               WEATHER           REMARKS
                               (TRUE)    (YARDS)   VISIBILITY
3/1/43     0804                036       11750     JOHNSTON ISLAND      BC-40-4% Cu.      Passed on.
3/1/43     2141                046       11800     LIKIEP ATOLL, M.I.   BC-8-1% Cu.       do
3/7/43     2025                058       13000     LIKIEP ATOLL, M.I.   BC-10-1% Cu.      do
3/9/43     2111                122       13900     NANUM ATOLL, M.I.    BC-10-2% Cu.      Tracked on various ranges and
                                                                                         bearings.
3/9/43     2136                077       13350     NANUM ATOLL, M.I.    BC-10-2% Cu.      Divod. Lost after 170° change
                                                                                         of course.
3/9/43     2340                046       10950     NANUM

— page 149 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
Subject: SJ RADAR CONTACTS (Cont'd)

DATE | TIME (ZT) | BEARING (TRUE) | RANGE (YDS) | TARGET | WEATHER VISIBILITY | REMARKS
-----||||||
3/19/43 | 2057 | 080 | 3500 | Rain Squall | 0-15-6% Cu. | 11 mins
3/20/43 | 0035 | 120 | 2150 | do | 0-10-10% Cu. | 6 minutes
3/20/43 | 1827 | 158 | 3150 | do | 0-10-10% Cu. | 6 minutes
3/21/43 | 2350 | 300 | 5500 | Unknown | 0-1-10% Cumb | 6 minutes
3/23/43 | 2100 | 235 | 9050 | PC Boat | BC-15-4% Cu | 5 minutes
3/26/43 | 2005 | 347 | 13100 | do | C-8-6% Stou | Dived
3/28/43 | 0042 | 010 | 3100 | Destroyer | BC-10-3% Cu. | Dived
3/28/43 | 2320 | 300 | 6500 | Rain Squall | 0-4-4% Cumb | Dived
3/30/43 | 0130 | 029 | 2500 | Rain Squall | C-7-6% Cumb | Rs
3/30/43 | 0210 | 298 | 2850 | do | C-7-8% Cumb | do
3/30/43 | 0225 | 036 | 2000 | do | 0-9-6% Cumb | do
3/30/43 | 0230 | 348 | 5500 | do | 0-9-6% Cumb | do
3/30/43 | 2344 | 259 | 1800 | Rain Squall | 0-7-8% Cumb | do
3/31/43 | 0000 | 205 | 3850 | do | 0-7-8% Cumb | do
3/31/43 | 0002 | 187 | 3250 | do | 0-5-10% Cumb | do
3/31/43 | 0055 | 040 | 3600 | do | C-7-8% Cumb | do
3/31/43 | 0116 | 084 | 4650 | do | C-7-8% Cumb | do
4/1/43 | 2037 | 003 | 1350 | Unknown | BC-5-4% Cumb | 8 mins
4/1/43 | 0100 | 292 | 4000 | do | C-8-8% Cu | do
4/1/43 | 2000 | 237 | 2500 | Unknown | BC-10-4% Cu | do
4/4/43 | 0100 | 292 | 4000 | Squall | BC-8-5% Cu | do
4/4/43 | 2000 | 237 | 2500 | Undetermined | BC-10-4% Cu | 4 minutes
4/4/43 | 2000 | 237 | 2500 | Squall | BC-8-5% Cu | nothing sighted

ENCLOSURE (A)
-31-

— page 151 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

PART XII SOUND CONDITIONS AND DENSITY LAYERS

Sound conditions in the MARSHALL ISLAND Area were exception-
ally good, propeller noise being heard on one occasion out to
eighteen thousand yards (18,000) and twice, targets were picked up
at fifteen thousand (15,000) yards prior to sighting by periscope.
No unusual sound density layers were encountered.

The new D-24, Mk. 2 sonic equipment performed satisfactorily
and was used in conjunction with the JK and QB to check bearings

No density layers were encountered.

PART XIII HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

A. HEALTH

In general the health of the officers and crew was fair.
One case of chronic appendicitis and three cases of mumps was
the extent of sickness. The appendicitis case, a fireman first
class, will have to be sent to the hospital upon arrival at
PEARL for an appendectomy. This case of sickness lasted from
28 March to 31 March after which time the man returned to duty.

On March 11th a seaman first class complained of a sore
throat and had a little fever so had to be put on binnacle list
for four days. It was thought at this time the man had a mild
case of influenza. Later, April 1st, a torpedoman second class
and the pharmacist mate first class had the same thing with
swelling on each side of the neck. When the pharmacist mate
first class contracted the sickness he recognized it as mumps.

B. HABITABILITY

This is the first patrol in tropical waters that this ship
has made since the installation of an air conditioning unit. The
air conditioning has made the ship comfortable, has contributed
greatly to cleanliness, and has stopped all rash, prickly heat,
and various other skin eruptions caused by hot and humid air
that was experienced on all previous patrols in the tropics prior
to installation of the air conditioning unit.

There are seven officers and sixty-six enlisted men in the crew
of the PORPOISE. Berthing for this number of officers is adequate
but for the enlisted men there are only forty-eight bunks necessita-
ting what is termed as "hot-bunking" for practically the entire crew.
It is know that this is not in accord with the best health practices
but it is very necessary on this ship. It is hoped that no communi-
cable diseases other than those of a mild nature, such as colds,
mumps, etc., get started on this ship.

-33- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 152 —
[UNCLEAR: U.S.S. GUDGEON]
[UNCLEAR: No. 0-1]

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Report of Fifth War Patrol.

— page 155 —
[STAMP: RECEIVED
ONI MAIL ROOM]
FB5-43/A16-3 SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY THREE 1943 MAY 14 AM 10 33
Serial (062) Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
April 16, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL

From: The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-THREE.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. The fifth war patrol of PORPOISE extended over a
period of forty-nine days, of which twenty-five days were spent
in the assigned patrol areas.

2. Twenty-three contacts were made, the only targets
of value being one seaplane tender, one auxiliary vessel of
6000-7000 tons, one small tanker, three destroyers and four small
auxiliaries of 1500-3000 tons. After obtaining the course and
speed of a target at 0223 on March 10 the Commanding Officer
erred in not pushing home his attack. On March 11 PORPOISE went
deep when a DD approached to within 4000 yards. By losing the
initiative and remaining at deep submergence for forty-four
minutes the opportunity to make an attack on a valuable Seaplane
Tender was lost.

3. Comment on attack.
Only one attack was made and of the three torpedoes
fired one was a premature, one a miss and one with a torpex head
hit. Pictures taken at the time are mute testimony of the
ineffectiveness of the torpex head. Although the range for this
attack is given as 2575 yards, the time of torpedo run indicates
a range nearer 3000 yards.

4. The Division Commander concurs in the remarks of the
Commanding Officer regarding the question of tightness of the
outer hull of the PORPOISE. The only final solution is a
complete renewal with a welded hull which is considered imprac-
tical due to the time, docking facilities, and expense involved
in such a plan. Every effort will be made to stop all leaks
during the current refit period.

5. The low ground readings on all main generators is
considered to be the primary cause of the increasing number of gen-
erator casualties. It is recommended that the armatures of all
four main generators be removed for a complete overhaul.

ENCLOSURE (B)

— page 156 —
FC5-4/A16-3 SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR Rs
Serial 087 Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
April 19, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CSD 43 Conf ltr FB5-43/A16-3
Serial 062 of April 16, 1943.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Fifth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. Forwarded. The comments of Commander Submarine
Division Forty-Three are complete and are concurred in.

2. The main generator armatures will be removed
from the ship during the refit period and the generators will
be given a complete overhaul.

ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 157 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 01019
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
CONFIDENTIAL

ld
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
5 Aug 1943.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 225
U.S.S. PORPOISE - SIXTH WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE (SS172) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of subject war patrol report.
(B) Copy of Comsubdiv 43 Conf. ltr. FB5-43/A16-3, Serial (0111)
dated 30 July 1943.
(C) Copy of Comsubron 4 Conf. 1st. end. FC5-4/A16-3, Serial 0195
dated 1 August 1943.

1. The sixth war patrol of the U.S.S. PORPOISE was the first of the
new commanding officer. Throughout the entire patrol excellent judgment,
planning and aggressive tactics were employed. Suffering battle damage early
in the patrol, which caused serious oil leaks, the PORPOISE continued on patrol
and caused much damage to the enemy.

2. In addition, excellent reconnaissance was made of many islands
throughout the Marshalls.

3. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
commanding officer, officers, and crew for this excellent war patrol.

4. This patrol is considered successful for Combat Insignia award.

5. The PORPOISE is credited with having inflicted the following
damage upon the enemy:

SUNK
1 - Freighter (YAMAZATO MARU class) - 6,925 tons
1 - Passenger Freighter (HAKONE MARU class)- 10,420 tons
TOTAL: 17,345 tons

DAMAGED
1 - Freighter (MYOGI MARU class) - 4,021 tons

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/73]

Distribution and authentication
on following page.

[HANDWRITTEN: Filmed]
[HANDWRITTEN: 53302]

C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

- 1 -
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

— page 158 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial Q1019

CONFIDENTIAL

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 225
U.S.S. PORPOISE - SIXTH WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE (SS172) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (5)
VCNO (5)
Cincpac (5)
Serforpac (5)
(Adv. Base Plan. Unit (1)
Cinclant (2)
Comsublant (8)
S/M School, NL (2)
Comsopac (2)
Comsowespac (1)
Comsubsowespac (2)
CTF 72 (2)
CTF 16 (1)
Comsubspac (12)
SUBAD, MI (2)
Comsubcomsubspac
Midway (2)
All Squadron and Div.
Commanders, Subspac (2)
U.S.S. PORPOISE (1)
(COMSUBSPAC Endorsement only:)
All Submarines, Subspac (1)

[SIGNATURE: R. C. Lawver]
R. C. LAWVER,
Flag Secretary.

1d
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
5 Aug 1943.

— page 159 —
U.S.S. PORPOISE

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California
July 28, 1943

CONFIDENTIAL
SS172/A16-3
Serial 010-43

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

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE, Report of War Patrol number Six.

Enclosures (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Charts for Subject Patrol.
(C) U.S.S. PORPOISE Conf. serial 09-43, "Report
of Reconnaissance of various Atolls in
Marshall Islands". (5 copies to ComSubPac only.

1. Enclosures (A), (B) and (C) covering the Sixth
War Patrol of this vessel conducted in Eastern Marshalls during
the period June 20, 1943 to July 28, 1943, is forwarded herewith.

C. L. BENNETT.

— page 166 —
## 1. The Original Request

The user wants a transcription of a WWII submarine patrol report page.
I need to transcribe all text, distinguishing between typed and handwritten text, preserving formatting, and handling unclear text appropriately.

## 2. Initial Scan and Strategy

I'll go through the image section by section:
- Header: "CONFIDENTIAL", "Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL" and the dashed line.
- Main body: A series of time-stamped entries (e.g., "1204-40 L", "1206-15 L", etc.) describing events.
- Footer: A page number "-7-".

I will pay close attention to:
- Faded text, especially in the middle and lower parts of the page.
- Specific naval terms (torpedo, aircraft bombs, depth charge, periscope, HELL, catcher, smoke bearing).
- Numbers and units (yards, feet, degrees).
- Punctuation and capitalization.

## 3. Detailed Transcription - Top Section

- **CONFIDENTIAL**: Clearly visible.
- **Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL**: Clearly visible.
- **

— page 168 —
Okay, I will transcribe the text from the image.

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

— page 172 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

1520 - Heard eight heavy aircraft bombs astern, not close.
1531 L Increased depth to 120 feet for one hour, (Air Contact No 8)

1735 - Heard nine heavy aircraft bombs quite distant, nothing
1740 L sighted. (Air Contact No.9).

1839 L Surfaced. SJ believed back in commission after demanding
         four days almost constant attention of the Radar Officer,
         Lieutenant Robert S. Day, U.S.Navy and H. M. MARTIN,
         CRU(PA), U.S.Navy.

July 8, 1943

0330 L Sighted MAJURO ISLAND ahead; closed to within two miles
         to check and tune SJ radar, then retired Westward to
         examine for oil slick. SJ apparently operating satis-
         factorily; picked up contact at 8,000 yards and held it
         out to 10,500 yards.

0500 L Submerged eleven miles West of MAJURO, 15 minutes before
         sunrise. Sea moderate with occasional white caps.

         Ran at periscope depth one mile with sun abeam to star-
         board; ran ½ mile with sun astern, then put a slight
         pressure on the compensating system (tanks on service, 5A-B
         and ran another mile; put sun on port beam and ran one
         mile then at -

0617 L surfaced and set course to re-cross our track at point
         where pressure had been placed on compensating system.

         There was a well defined slick marking our track from
         this point, and a somewhat less definite slick prior
         to that. At time of observation this slick was about
         one hour old.

         Consider this explains the efficiency of JALUIT air
         patrols. No slick was revealed in a much more rigid
         test at JOHNSTON and considering air coverage at TAROA -
         I do not believe it was present when reconnoitering
         that vicinity. The conclusion is, therefore, that it is
         the result of the depth charges received off ENIJUN on
         June 30th. Since that time we had not been under any
         considerable air coverage until arrival off JALUIT.

-13-

— page 177 —
I will transcribe the text from the provided image, distinguishing between typed and handwritten text, preserving formatting, and handling unclear text as instructed.

**CONFIDENTIAL**
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

— page 178 —
The provided image is a page from a document, likely a report or a book, given the page number "-19-" at the bottom. The text appears to be typewritten.

Here's the transcription:

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

— page 182 —
## The Story of the "Lost" Roman Legion: Fact vs. Fiction

The tale of a Roman legion disappearing without a trace is one of history's most enduring mysteries. While the idea of an entire legion vanishing into the mists of time is captivating, the reality is often more nuanced. Let's explore some of the most famous "lost" legions and separate the historical facts from the popular myths.

### The Myth of the Vanished Legion

The popular imagination often conjures images of a Roman legion marching into a foreign land, only to be ambushed and annihilated, leaving no survivors or records. This dramatic narrative, while compelling, rarely aligns with the meticulous record-keeping and logistical capabilities of the Roman Empire. Roman legions were highly organized units, and their movements, deployments, and fates were generally well-documented.

### The Most Famous "Lost" Legion: Legio IX Hispana

Perhaps the most famous "lost" legion is the **Legio IX Hispana** (Ninth Spanish Legion). The myth surrounding this legion claims it marched into the wilds of Caledonia (modern Scotland) around 117 AD and was completely wiped out by Pictish tribes, leaving no trace. This story gained significant traction through Rosemary Sutcliff's popular 1954 historical novel, *The Eagle of the Ninth*, and its subsequent film adaptations.

**The Historical Facts:**

*   **Early History:** Legio IX Hispana was a long-standing and distinguished legion, serving in various campaigns across the Roman Empire, including the conquest of Britain under Claudius.
*   **

— page 183 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

DATE         PLACE                       SET   DRIFT   SUBMERGED
                                                         SURFACE
28 June      TAROA-AIRIK (MALOELAP)      225   0.6     Submerged
29 June      West of MALOELAP            300   1.0     Both
1 July       East of WOTJE               325   3.5     Submerged
2 July       East of WOTJE               240   0.4     Submerged
3 July       West of JABWOT ISLAND       Easterly        Submerged
5 July       East of NAMORIK             Northerly       Submerged
7 July       10 mi. NE JALUIT            Easterly        Submerged
8 July       ENYGAIN IS. (MAJURO)        315   2.0     Submerged
14 July      AON ISLAND (UTIRIK)         315   ---     Submerged
14 July      UTIRIK ISLAND (UTIRIK)      310   1.0     Submerged

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

HO Chart 5427, UTIRIK ATOLL. Small island or rock on reef 1½
miles East of AON is either non-existent or is totally obscured
by the sailing ship beached in that spot.

HO Chart 5428, MALOELAP ATOLL. It is believed that the small
island, shown on the chart to be North of LOA ISLAND, does not
exist or is completely barren as it cannot be seen through the
periscope submerged or from the surface at night.

Except for TAONGI ATOLL, where there is much drying sand and
rocks on the reef not indicated on the chart, the charted contours
of the various islands corresponded very closely with tangents
observed.

Lookout towers and radio masts on TAROA, WOTJE, JALUIT,
TAONGI, and UTIRIK can be readily plotted in and used to assist
in piloting.

No deviation from charted positions of the atolls in EASTERN
MARSHALLS was noted: Landfalls were made without difficulty, radar
land contacts averaged about 3½ miles.

-24-

— page 184 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

Subject:

(F) SHIP CONTACTS
CONTACT NO. | TIME | DATE | LAT. LONG. | TYPE | INITIAL RANGE | COURSE & SPEED | HOW CON- | REMARKS
             |      |      |            |      |               |                | TACTED   |
No.1 (4)     | 0305 L | 28 June | 8 mi. E. S.E. TAROA MALOELAP | PG (?) | 3 mi.         | ling           | P        | 1-mast, peculiar small flared stack; 1 or possibly 2 small guns-started approach, then avoided.
No.2 (4)     | 0750 L | 28 June | P. OF NARRAO | Sampan | 5 mi.         | ?              | SN       | Observed bobbing white light avoided.
No.3 (5)     | 0917 L | 29 June | ENIJUN CHANNEL | AK     | 6-2 mi.       | Anchored       | P        | Schooner type; two heavy masts, large deck house; canopy aft; avoided.
No.4 (6)     | 0540 L | 30 June | ENIJUN CHANNEL | PC     | 4 mi.         | Patrol-ling    | P        | Larger AK, MIKUNI MARU-photographed. Similar to YAMAZATO MARU. 2 "catcher" type PC; 1 schooner.
No.5 (6)     | 0845 L | 30 June | ENIJUN CHANNEL | 2 PC   | 3 mi.         | Patrol-ling    | P        | Both "catcher" type avoided
No.6 (6)     | 1119 L | 30 June | ENIJUN CHANNEL | AK PG  | 6 mi.         | Zig-zagging radically approaching channel 10-12 knots | P        | [UNCLEAR: IFM] similar "YOGI MARU" with contacts 3 & 5 plus two planes attack 1/1. 1 hit.

-25-

— page 185 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

Subject:

| CONTACT NO. | TIME | P. OF NARR. DATE | LAT. LONG. | TYPE | TONNAGE | INTERVAL & RANGE | EST. COURSE & SPEED | HOW CON-TACTED | REMARKS |
|---|
| No.7 (9) | 1000 L | 1 July | WOTJE AN-CHORAGE | AK | | 2.5 mi. | Moored to pier | P | |
| No.8 (9) | 1700 L | 2 July | 8-22 N. 169-30 E | PC | | 3 mi. | Zig-zagging 2700 to 10-11 knots | P | Small or medium MFM freighter. |
| No.9 (9) | 0020 L | 3 July | SCHLICHM. REV. STRIT. WOTJE AN-CHORAGE | PC | | 3.5 mi. | Patrolling | P | Large sampan type - avoided. |
| No.10 (11) | 0545 L | 3 July | 5 mi. N. of G.I.I.I.IN IS. MAJURO | PC(?) | | 3 mi. | Patrolling | P | Called up by plane after bombing depth charged - avoided. |
| No.11 (11) | 0905 L | 6 July | From N.E. PASS, JALUIT | AK | | 4 mi. | Anchored | P | Trawler type - but looked smaller |
| No.11½ (12) | 0910 L | 7 July | From N.E. PASS, JALUIT | PC | | 3 mi. | Patrolling | P | Called up by plane after bombing depth charged - avoided. |
| No.12 (15) | 2351 L | 10 July | 15 mi. 0100 Pass, JALUIT | PC | | 3 mi. | Searching | SN | Only occasional range lights seen - avoided after 4 hrs. |
| No.13 (15) | 0227 L | 11 July | 35 mi. N. of G.I.I.I.IN | ? | | 2 mi. | Chasing up to 14 knots | R | Apparently small PC joining contact 12 above - avoided. |

-25-

— page 186 —
CONFIDENTIALL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

CONTACT NO. | TIME | DATE | LAT LONG | TYPES | VISUAL RANGE | EST. COURSE & SPEED | HOW CON-CLUDED | REM.RKS
P. of N.R.R.I | | | | | | | |
No.7 (9) | 1000 L | 1 July | 17-00 N, 169-30 E | AK | 2.5 mi. | Moored to pier | P |
No.8 (9) | 1700 L | 2 July | 8-22 N, 169-30 E | PC | 3 mi. | Patrolling | P | Zig-zagging.
| | | | | | 10-11 knots | | Was contact #1.
| | | | | | | | Similar "GOSEI MARU"
| | | | | | | | but looked smaller.
No.9 (9) | 0020 L | 3 July | SCLISCHLREV STRAIT, VONE PC | PC | 3 mi. | Patrolling | P | Trawler type - avoided.
No.10 (11) | 0545 L | 6 July | From N.E. PASS, J.LUIT PC | PC | 3 mi. | Patrolling | P | Called up by plane
| | | | | | | | after bombing -
| | | | | | | | depth charged - avoided.
No.11 (11) | 0905 L | 6 July | 15 mi. 0100 from N.E. PASS, J.LUIT PC | PC | 3 mi. | Searching | P | Only occasional
| | | | | | | | range lights seen - avoided after 4 hrs.
No.11½ (12) | 0910 L | 7 July | 25 mi. N. of C.L.L.L.IN IS., PC(?) | PC(?) | 3 mi. | Chasing | SN | Apparently small
| | | | | | | up to 14 knots | | PC joining contact
| | | | | | | | | 12 above - avoided.
No.12 (15) | 2351 L | 10 July | 35 mi. N. of J.LURO | ? | 2 mi. | ? | R |
No.13 (15) | 0227 L | 11 July | Inside S.W. PASS, J.LUIT | ? | ? | ? | ? |

-25-

— page 188 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

Subject:

CONTACT NO. | TIME | LAT: | TYPE | RNG. | HOW | REMARKS
(P. of N.R.P.) | DATE | LONG: | NOTE | DIST. | CONTACTED |
| | | | COURSE | |
No.5 (9) | 0944 I | N.E. of | ? | 5 mi. | Var | P | Seen twice (for two
| 1 July | JALUIT ATOLL | | | | | planes) during day.
| | | | | | | Four engine flying
| | | | | | | boat.
No.6 (11) | 0825 I | S.W. PASS | SALLY | 3 mi. | Var | P | Seen twice; later
| 6 July | JALUIT | | | | | bombed by unseen
| | | | | | | planes.
No.7 (12) | 0812 I | 15 mi. N. | DAVE | 1 mi. | Circling | P | Sighted 1 hour after
| 7 July | of N.W. PASS | | | | | being bombed; called
| | JALUIT | | | | | up contact #11.
| | | | | | | Single float VO.
No.8 (13) | 152

— page 197 —
Okay, I will transcribe the text from the image, distinguishing between typed and handwritten text as requested.

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

— page 198 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

Tubes Fired: No. 7 (Deck Tubes) No. 8
Track 90° Starboard 90° Starboard
Gyro 0 0
Depth 12 (pre-set, not adjustment 12
Power High High
Hit or Miss: Hit Miss
Erratic No *Yes
Mk Torpedo: 14-1A 14-1A
Serial No. 15878 17933
Mk Exploder: 6-1 6-1
Serial No. 6387 6457
Actuation Set: Contact (no option) Contact
Actuation Actual: Contact -----
Mk Warhead 16 16
Serial No. 4051 4958
Explosive TNT TNT
Firing Interval: 7 seconds
Type Spread Natural (0°)
Sea Conditions: Condition TWO from East.
Overhaul Activity: Submarine Base, PEARL

Remarks: *The torpedo in tube No. 8 was seen to hook sharply
to the left on firing and thereafter could not be
seen, though sound reported bearing a torpedo running
on 305° relative. Tube No. 7's torpedo was seen to
start straight and its wake was visible--too visible--
all the way to the target.

Both tubes on firing shot up a huge geyser of water
(they were about 24 feet below the surface). This
is a limitation that must be borne in mind on
firing these tubes.

U.S.S. PORPOISE GUN ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 6
Time:2211 (L)-1111(Z) July 15, 1943 Lat. 13-57 N Long 168-22 E
TARGET DAMAGE INFLICTED

Sunk:
Damaged: One auxiliary schooner, 100-150 tons. This schooner
was typical of the type seen in the area: Over 100
feet long, clipper bow and bowsprit, heavy foremast
with ratlines in shrouds and a basket type lookout
platform, large pilot house amidships under the very
high forward boom, smaller mainmast same height as

-39-

— page 203 —
This appears to be a page from a WWII submarine patrol report, likely detailing equipment issues or observations.

Here's the transcription, preserving line breaks and capitalization as accurately as possible:

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

— page 206 —
Okay, I will transcribe all the text from the image, distinguishing between typed and handwritten text, preserving line breaks, spacing, capitalization, and special elements as per your instructions.

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

— page 209 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - REPORT OF SIXTH WAR PATROL

     While good navigation is to be expected and taken for
granted these days, the work of the navigator, Lieutenant M. H.
LYTLE, U.S.Navy, in making eighteen landfalls on low-lying atolls
with never more than one hour's miscalculation and under the
handicap of an unreliable pit log and steering is considered
worthy of special note.

     The Commanding Officer cannot too highly praise the spirit
and efficiency of the PORPOISE ship's company. This high state
of morale is felt to be the more creditable in view of the
crowded conditions aboard and of the many extra hours of off-
watch work that are to be expected in an older ship.

-50-

— page 210 —
FC5-4/A16-3
Serial 0195
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CSD 43 Conf. Ltr. FB5-43/A16-3
Serial 0111 of 30 July 1943.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Sixth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. Forwarded. The comments of Commander Submarine
Division Forty-Three are most complete and are concurred in.
The Commander Submarine Squadron Four congratulates the
Commanding Officer, Officers, and Crew on a very successful
patrol.

Copy to:
Comsubdiv 43
CO PORPOISE
SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
August 1, 1943.

— page 211 —
FB5-43/A16-3 SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY THREE

Serial 0111 Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L July 30, 1943.

From: The Commander Submarine Division Forty Three.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Sixth War Patrol - Comment on.

1. Of the thirty-eight days on patrol PORPOISE spent
twenty-four days in and around the areas. Had fifteen ship
contacts of one or more ships each and twelve plane contacts.
Only three of the contacts produced suitable and appropriate
targets for torpedo attack and the last of the three was attacked
twice to insure destruction. Two night gun attacks were conducted
one against a moving target (Auxiliary schooner), one against shore
installations. Neither of the gun attacks was particularly
effective in inflicting damage. The difficulty with the trainer's
telescope is considered to be a defective sight rather than faulty
design.

2. This was the present commanding officers first patrol
in command of the PORPOISE although he had made three patrols in
two different submarines. His previous experience paid dividends
when he went out in command. The patrol was intelligently
conducted, all situations carefully studied and analyzed, attacks
skillfully and aggressively made, and with never more than an
erratic T.D.C. six of the nine torpedoes fired made hits resulting
in two sinkings and one probable sinking. The ship went through
part of its training period with the T.D.C. out of commission.

3. The patrol report itself is most complete and shows
careful preparation. It is interesting as well as factual and
easy to read. The attack analysis is particularly clearly
presented and show complete sequences with attendant circumstances.
The commanding officer was thinking all the time. The word
"Thermocline" probably sets a precedent.

4. The statement concerning mistakes in the last
sentence of the second paragraph under "(2) PERSONNEL" has
reference to the internal organization, training within the
ship itself.

- 1 -

— page 212 —
FB5-43/A16-3
Serial 0111
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. PORPOISE - Sixth War Patrol - Comment on.

— page 213 —
END OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-185-76]

|||| 1.0
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|||| 1.25 |||| 1.4 |||| 1.6

2.8
3.2
3.6
4.0

2.5
2.2
2.0

1.8

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - UNITED STATES OF AMERICA with eagle]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

D-62254