U.S.S. SNOOK (SS-279) — war patrol report SS-279_SNOOK.pdf

— page 1 —
START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-364-76]
OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: Hancock]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 7-9-76]

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

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE SEAL with text: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

— page 2 —
Office of Naval Records and History
Ships' Histories Section
Navy Department

HISTORY OF USS SNOOK (SS 279)

USS SNOOK, veteran Pacific submarine sunk or damaged more than
150,000 tons of Jap shipping before she was lost on her ninth war
patrol six months prior to the war's end.

Working boldly and aggressively, the 312-foot undersea raider
lashed out in eight successful thrusts against Jap shipping, ranging
in area from the Kurile Island ice fields to the South China seas.
Her operations resulted in the sinking of 106,312 tons of Jap shipping
and damage to 67,627 tons more.

Built in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the SNOOK was commissioned
there on 24 October 1942. After a period of exercises and training,
the sub departed for the Pacific on her first war patrol.

In her first combat performance, SNOOK torpedoed three freighters
and destroyed one sampan and one motor trawler with gunfire. Her
first chore was a mine-laying detail. She went to Tinghai, South
China Sea, in the vicinity of the Yangtze River, and planted 34 mag-
netic mines, passing among unsuspecting Chinese junks to perform her
daring mission.

With her job successfully completed, SNOOK set out for the North
China Sea in search of Jap shipping. Two freighters were seen near-
ing Dairen and both were tracked and torpedoed. The vessel farthest
astern went down immediately, but the second, witnessing the sad fate
of his comrade, attempted to clear the area at flank speed. He was
chased 45 minutes, attacked and sunk.

The patrol's final attack was directed at a heavily escorted con-
voy which included two transports. Three torpedoes were fired at one
of the ships and withdrawal was made on the surface at high speed.
Although the damage could not be visually detected, one of the ships
disappeared from the radar screen soon after the attack.

It was late spring of 1943 when the SNOOK left for her second war
patrol. A convoy of six ships was attacked off the East China coast.
A large vessel, believed to be a transport, was damaged with two hits.
A severe depth charge attack followed, but the craft's capable com-
manding officer, Commander C. O. Treibel, USN, expertly conned his
ship out of trouble.

On midnight, 4 July, a radar contact was closed. Selecting the
largest vessel, SNOOK let loose a salvo of six "fish" at a large tank-
er. The enemy ship exploded with all the appropriate brilliance of
a Fourth of July fireworks show. Two bow tubes and three stern tubes
were also turned upon the chaotic ships and two or probably three
hits were observed, but due to the highly confused array of ships, no

[HANDWRITTEN: G]

— page 3 —
- 2 - USS SNOOK (SS 279)

estimation of damage could be seen. The vessel returned from patrol
and was credited with sinking one tanker of 17,479 tons, and damaging
another tanker and two freighters which totaled 24,527 tons.

The third war patrol was conducted in the Yellow and East China
Seas, starting on 18 August 1943, and ending on October 8. The first
attack came about a month after the patrol began. A six ship convoy
was attacked and missed when it turned radically at firing time. A
similar attack was foiled for the same reason a day later but on a
third attempt, the SNOOK finally hit her stride.

Using periscope radar in order to avoid detection from a bright
moon, the submarine closed a convoy of five ships and sent six "fish"
streaking at a large transport for only one hit. A few hours later,
four tubes were fired at a medium cargo ship, again scoring a single
hit.

In another attack that same day, 12 September a well-decked
freighter was damaged. He was reattacked with a salvo of four more
torpedoes but no additional hits resulted.

During the last few days of the patrol, a 300-ton motor driven
cargo vessel which was obviously used to radio submarine warnings, was
attacked with a 3-inch gun. However, a Nip sharpshooter from the
doomed ship responded with accurate rifle fire, injuring four of the
crew. Totals for the third patrol were 1 transport, 9,000 tons and
1 freighter, 3,393 tons, sunk; 1 wooden freighter, 300 tons damaged.

SNOOK's fourth thrust took her into the Marianas during the period
from 20 October to 7 December 1943. On November 28, the submarine
took part in a wolf pack strike against a large convoy. After her two
comrades, the USS HARDER and USS PARGO, did their work, SNOOK moved
in and let go six "fish" at a cargo ship that was milling around. One
torpedo smacked a vessel previously hit by the PARGO and another ex-
ploded into another ship. Four more stern shots resulted in another
hit but with explosions erupting the area, no accurate account of the
damage could be seen.

During the next day, a six-torpedo salvo blew up a cargo ship and
a half hour later, two stern tubes were loosed upon a very irritating
escort. Unfortunately, they missed but only because of some radical
maneuvering. The escort chose to leave the area. Results for this
patrol were two freighters, totalling 14,500 tons, sunk; three freight-
ers, totalling 13,500 tons, damaged.

Back to the East China Sea and the west coast of Kyushu, went SNOOK
for her fifth war patrol. On 23 January 1944, a six-fish radar attack
upon a large ship resulted in three violent explosions and her ultimate
sinking.

Contacts in this once heavily used area were starting to dwindle
and it became evident that the Japs were using other convoy lanes.

— page 4 —
- 3 - USS SNOOK (SS 279)

Two ships were picked out and four torpedoes were fired, resulting
in three hits. A heavy volley of 21 depth charges followed immediately
but SNOOK escaped damage.

On 10 February, SNOOK missed a large destroyer with a four-tor-
pedo spread but four days later a transport was exploded amidships
and a similar but smaller vessel received the same treatment a day
later.

A large aircraft carrier traveling with two destroyers was sighted
just before noon on February 20. A plane ruined SNOOK's attack, but
she managed to alert other subs in the area before seeking cover.
Three days later, the sub made her way through a screen of escorts
and lashed out at two cargo ships with two good hits.

SNOOK struck a heavy toll in her fifth patrol, sinking 1 unknown
ship estimated at 7,000 tons; 1 AK, 6,900 tons; 1 APK, 6,000 tons; 1
AK, 1,500; 1 AK, 6,000 tons; for a total of 27,400 tons. Another
AK of 6,200 tons was damaged. Commander Treibel was detached at the
end of this patrol.

SNOOK's 6th patrol took her once more to the empire areas. On
July 12, a daylight submerged attack was made upon a cargo ship and
resulted in heavy damage. Contacts were scarce during this run and
it was not until two weeks later that the submarine got an opportunity
to close another Jap vessel. Six torpedoes were let go at a small
unidentified ship but all of them ran too deep and passed beneath the
ship's keel. The patrol ended with totals reading 1 cargo ship, 6,600
tons, damaged.

The start of the seventh patrol was interrupted due to excessive
vibrations in one of the shafts. Despite diving efforts to correct
the defect, the job could not be completed at sea, so SNOOK put into
Saipan for a brief repair period.

Leaving Saipan, the submarine joined a wolf pack and attacked a
convoy on 23 October 1944. Four torpedoes were fired at the largest
ship, two of them hitting. At 2 a.m., the next day, three more were
fired at a large SK and another trio at a ship close astern. Single
hits were scored on both targets, the second one causing an explosion
that tore off the whole after end of the target. Two hours later,
four bow tubes were emptied at another large cargo ship, two of them
hitting.

The sub was forced to give up chasing the few remnants when de-
stroyers forced her deep with volleys of depth charges. The submarine
emerged undamaged and four days later struck at another enemy ship,
damaging it with at least one hit.

Ordered to search for downed pilots, the sub left her convoy-
wrecking duties and set out on a rescue mission. One American pilot
was picked up, and the boat returned to port on November 18. Results

— page 5 —
- 4 - USS SNOOK (SS 279)

included the sinking of 3 AK's of 7,500 tons each for a total of 22,500
tons and damaging 1 7,500 ton AK, one unidentified vessel of 2,000
tons for a total of 9,500 tons.

SNOOK's eighth patrol was conducted in the frigid areas along the
Kurile Island chain, north of the Jap homeland. Not a single attack
was made and only three ships, including two Russian ships and one
unidentified vessel, were contacted. The boat was in constant danger
from the elements as long fingers of drift ice, much of it carrying
yellow traces of beach sand, were common sights. On 8 February 1945,
SNOOK slammed into a field of floe ice and was forced with the deci-
sion of backing down or penetrating the entire field. Since a back-
ward progress would be sure to result in damage to the propellers,
the SNOOK chose to run ahead through the entire field. The ganging
and grinding along the hull was a most dismal sound, especially since
with the barometer dropping since noon, the seas were building up from
the northeast. SNOOK escaped but not without damage to her port pro-
peller. Her patrol ended on February 17.

Little is known of the SNOOK's final patrol which started in
March. According to her last position reports, SNOOK was sunk on or
about 8 April 1945, in the area off the Hainan Coast, South China
Sea. None of her crew of nine officers and 75 enlisted men survived.

SNOOK measured 312 feet, was credited with a speed of 20 knots
on the surface, and had a displacement of 1,525 tons. She was chris-
tened by Mrs. James C. Dempsey, wife of Navy Cross winner, Lieutenant
James C. Dempsey, USN.

* * * * *

USS SNOOK (SS 279) earned seven Battle Stars on the Asiatic-
Pacific Area Service Medal, for participating in the following opera-
tions:

1 Star/Pacific Raids - 1943
Marcus Island Raid -- 31 August 1943

1 Star/Western Caroline Islands Operations
Assaults on the Philippine Islands -- 9-24 September 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol - Pacific -- 11 April to 23 May 1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol - Pacific -- 29 June to 18 July 1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol - Pacific -- 8 October to 7 December 1943

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol - Pacific -- 6 January to 6 March 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol - Pacific -- 24 June to 14 August 1944

NOTE: All estimates of sinkings, tonnage, and types sunk are
taken from the commanding officers' evaluations during
the war patrols.

* * * * *

Restencilled August 1951

— page 6 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279). Report of First War Patrol. Period
from 11 April 1943 to 23 May 1943. Operation
Order No. 54-43.
PROLOGUE.

Arrived Pearl on 30 March 1943 from East Coast. Took
signature for flash "D" given at New London, Conn. Very little
leakage. Degaussing equipment removed. Minor repairs and
alterations. Drydocked. Cleaned and painted bottom. Three
days training period. Ready for sea 10 April 1943. Departed
Pearl 11 April 1943.

11 April 1943

1300 VH Underway from Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, for Midway.
Escort dropped two indoctrinational depth charges during the
afternoon and was released at sunset.

12-14 April

Uneventful cruising, zig-zagging at standard speed. Made
daily dives and held surface and submerged fire control drills.

15 April

0620 X Joined by air escort and stood into Midway. Fueled, made
minor repairs, and departed for area same afternoon.

16-24 April

Cruised at standard speed zig-zagging during day enroute
area. Daily dives and drills.

25 April

1200 K Dove on SD contact 3 miles. Half hour later came to 52
feet, raised the SD mast and had contact at 4½ miles. Surfaced
45 minutes later when radar indicated all clear.
1530 K Dove on sight contact with fishing boat. Manned battle
stations for gun action, surfaced and left him a mass of wreckage
after 20 minutes concentrated gun fire. He was a little
slow and hard to hit outside 800 yards. Gun crews were wild
and fire discipline poor at the start. It was an excellent prac-
tice. Taught the 20 mm. men they must fire in bursts, and the
3 inch they must be steady on.

-1-

— page 9 —
CONFIDENTIAL                                                              Jk

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

has been turned on again since the WAHOO's depredations, I es-
timated traffic was moving in a direct line to the EMPIRE.
Started patrol on line intersecting direct DAIREN -- GULF of
POHAI route. Dove before dawn. Visibility was only fair due
to haze and both periscopes were foggy. Range of vision almost
as great in low power as in high. Surfaced after dark patrol-
ling same general area, keeping position on ROUND ISLAND light.

5 May

0043 I       SJ contact at 9850 yards. Went to battle stations and
             closed a small darkened ship, estimated at just under 1,000
             tons. Did not attack when his size became apparent. He was
             bound for PORT ARTHUR. Dove at
0445 I and decided to patrol inside the light where we could see the
             harbor entrance. Junks in sight at all times, sea glassy,
             periscopes foggy. At
1818 I the O.O.D. sighted a freighter, range about 7,000 yards stand-
             ing out of DAIREN. Went to battle stations and commenced
             approach. Range was down to about 5,000 yards when another
             freighter was sighted 3,000 to 4,000 astern the first. If we
             attacked the first ship, the second would surely get back home
             safely before we could touch him. The radar had been perform-
             ing beautifully, so after a quick calculation of our chances,
             decided to trail submerged and attack after dark on the sur-
             face. Not without qualms, I watched my first enemy ships go
             by untouched at 1,300 yards. When range on second ship in
             column had increased to 8,000 yards, commenced trailing at 6
             knots submerged. Finally at
2100 I was dark and we surfaced to view two beautiful pips at
             10,400 yards range.
             Closed on the surface at standard speed parallel to and
             5,000 yards from their track. Hoped to shoot trailing ship
             first, then get the leader before he missed his pal. His track
             by radar plot was as smooth as the skin you love to touch.
             Aimed in for a 90 track at
2202 I and with a torpedo run of 1,100 yards fired a three torpedo
             spread at
2210 I       The first torpedo fired hit in 38 seconds while we were
             turning to commence approach on the leading ship. The explosior
             was dull with a small flash. The leading ship stood on bliss-
             fully unaware of any untoward events until someone on the sink-
             ing ship hit the whistle cord. Whistle blew for 30 seconds or
             so until his stern went high in the air and he dove. The
             leader then started to maneuver radically. At
2227 I fired one torpedo as he started to swing broadside to us.
             Missed. Coasted on in and two minutes later as he swung fast
             towards us fired our coveted Torpex head with a torpedo run

                                     - 4 -                               ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 14 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SHOOK - Report of First War Patrol.

TIDAL AND CURRENT INFORMATION (Cont'd)

NANSEI SHO group as stated in the Pilot. However, the SHOOK did not ex-
perience such a northerly set and came near laying her aground and herself in
the most dangerous navigational areas along China Coast". This was not only
caused by the lack of the expected set by the Japanese Stream but also by the
totally unpredictable currents around the YANGTZE Entrance, and the weather
which was anything but good for celestial and coastal navigation.
Off DAIREN, and in the vicinity of ROUND ISLAND, after 2 days careful
observation, it was ascertained that the tides and currents conformed remark-
ably well with the charts and Pilot.
When returning through COLNETT STRAIT, a set of about 135° T. and a
drift of about 2 knots was experienced.
With the unpredictable currents, fog, and poor visibility encountered
in the Yellow Sea in the Spring time, it is not recommended that landfalls be
attempted until a good navigational fix is established just prior to making
land.

NAVIGATIONAL AIDS - LIGHTS OBSERVED

NORTH SADDLE - Fl. W.
Characteristics changed to Fl. 2 sec.; Ecl. 25 sec.; period 27 sec.

ROUND ISLAND
Normal characteristics.

SHANTUNG PROMONTORY - Gp. Fl. W.
Characteristics changed to Fl. 4 sec.; Ecl. 25 sec.; period 29 sec.

MIRA TO
Normal characteristics, but dimmed to 6 miles visibility.

KUSAKAKI JIMA
Normal characteristics.

MT SAKI
Normal characteristics.

- 9 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 15 —
CONFIDENTIAL | U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of First Patrol. (Continued).
(5) DESCRIPTION OF ALL ENEMY WARSHIPS & OTHER VESSELS SIGHTED.
| Item No. | Description | Time-Date | Position | Course-Speed | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 50 ft. diesel fishing | 1530 K | Off Sandon | Engaged | Demolished boat by |
| sampan | boat. | 4/29/43 | Iwa Is. | in fishing | gunfire. |
| | | | | | |
| 2 | 120 ft. diesel fishing | 1700 K | Off Sandon | Engaged in | Avoided these |
| sampans | boats. Long overhan- | 4/29/43 | Iwa Is. | fishing. | boats. |
| | ing bow. Superstruc- | | | | |
| | ture aft. | AK | Coal burner, single | 1929 I | About 50 mi | C 240 | Too small to attack |
| | stack midships, | 4/29/43 | E. of Shanghai | S10 | prior to minelay- |
| | 1,000 tons. | | | | ing. |
| | | | | | |
| Many | Typical Chinese | 4/28/43 to | Within 20 mi. | Engaged | These vessels con- |
| Sampans | fishing boats | 4/30/43 | of Yangtze | in fishing. | stantly in sight |
| & junks | | | River Entrance | | during this time |
| | | | | | interval. |
| | | | | | |
| Patrol | Appeared narrow and | 0445 I | Lat. 30°-57 N | C 080 | Maneuvered to |
| Vessel | tall with destroyer | 4/30/43 | Long. 122°-59 E | | avoid and sub- |
| | bow at 2000 yds in | | | | merged. |
| | the dark. | Many | 50 to 100 ft. long. | 5/4/43 | Vicinity of | Engaged in | Junks in sight |
| Junks | Typical sailing junks | 5/5/43 | Round Island | Fishing | constantly in |
| | | | | | this area. |
| | | | | | |
| Patrol | Vessel of about 750 | 0010 I | Lat. 30°-30'N | C 300 | Ship too small |
| Vessel | tons. Resembled Patrol | 5/5/43 | Long. 122°-20'E | S 10 | for attack. |
| | boat, though dark | | | | |
| | night obscured. | | | | |
[HANDWRITTEN: ENCLOSURE (A)]
[HANDWRITTEN: - 10 -]
[HANDWRITTEN: 16]

— page 16 —
Hn
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of First War Patrol. (Continued).
(5) DESCRIPTION OF ALL ENEMY WARSHIPS & OTHER VESSELS SIGHTED (Continued).

Ship | Description | Time-Date | Position | Course-Speed | Remarks
-----|||||
AK. | TONE MARU Class | 1818 I | Lat. 38°-53'N | C 117 | Sunk in attack . 1
    | P. 131, 4000 tons | 5/5/43 | Long.121°-53'E | S 8.1 |
AK | YUKI MARU Class | 1818 I | Lat. 38°-53'N | C 117 | Sunk in attack 2
   | P. 213, 5000 tons | 5/5/43 | Long.121°-53'E | S 8.1 | 3, 4.
2 AK or | AKAGI MARU Class | 0320 I | Lat. 36°-05'N | C 177 | Attack 5:sunk 1,
AP | P. 69, 7000 tons | [HANDWRITTEN: 5/6/43] | Long.123°-25'E | S8.7 | possibly damaged
   |             |           |          |              | 1
2 Convoy | Escort vessels of | 0320 I | Lat. 36°-05'N | C 177 | Convoy escort
Escort | destroyer size. | 5/7/43 | Long.123°-25'E | S 8.7 | for above two
Vessels | Actual details not |           |          |              | AP.
        | visible |           |          |              |
Sampans | 50 ft. long. Diesel | 5/9/43 to | Vicinity of | Engaged in | One or two sam-
        | and sail fishing boats | 5/11/43 | Saisho To Is. | fishing. | pans in sight
        |                     |           |          |              | constantly.
AK | AYATOSAN MARU Class | 1130 I | Lat.32°-25'N | C 325-030 | Lost contact.
   | and P. 52, 9800 tons. | 5/12/43 | Long.127°-12'E | S 12-16 |
AP | About 10,000 tons. | 1130 I | Lat.32°-25'N | C 325-030 | Lost contact.
   | Characteristics sim- | 5/12/43 | Long.127°-30'E | S 12-16 |
   | ilar to USS CHAUMONT |           |          |              |
AK | SYOWA MARU | 1610 I | Lat.22°-44'N | C 225 | Sunk in attack 6
   | P. 167, 2210 tons. | 5/13/43 | Long.128°-30'E | S 8.25 |
Sampan | 80 ton diesel. Super- | 1400 I | 80 mi. West of |              | Demolished by
        | structure aft. Large | 5/15/43 | Tori Shima |              | gun fire.
        | Jap flag painted on bow |           |          |              |

ENCLOSURE (A)
-- 11 --
[HANDWRITTEN: C.3.B.R.4]

— page 25 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FOUR

                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California,
                                                                May 26, 1943.

FB5-44/A16-3
Serial 018-B
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

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

Via:            The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.

Subject:        U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of First War Patrol -
                Comments.

                1. The First War Patrol of SNOOK, which covered a
period of forty-two days between departure from Pearl and
return to Midway with nineteen days in the patrol area, was a
very productive one. SNOOK carried mines and fourteen tor-
pedoes upon departure for patrol. Mines were successfully
laid under difficult conditions of navigation on the fifth
night in the area.

                2. An outstanding feature of this patrol is that
all six torpedo attacks were made during darkness with the
aid of the SJ equipment. Five of the attacks were made on the
surface and the sixth was made at radar depth. The Commanding
Officer attributes the excellent performance of the SJ equip-
ment to constant attention of two officers throughout the
patrol.

                3. The first torpedo targets of this patrol were
encountered a few miles away from Dairen on the evening of
5 May shortly before dark. These targets were two freighters
about three thousand yards apart. While in a favorable posi-
tion for the attack the Commanding Officer chose to delay the
attack until darkness in order to have a better chance of sink-
ing both ships. This was a difficult decision to make, but it
turned out to be a good one since both ships were sunk in a
night attack.

                4. The failure to hit on attacks two and three
illustrates once more the undesirability of firing single
torpedoes unless conditions are ideal, that is, all information
on target course, speed and range is known very accurately.
The Commanding Officer is now "a Christian."

                                                                - 1 -

— page 26 —
FB5-44/A16-3
Serial 018-B

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

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of First War Patrol -
Comments.

— page 27 —
FC5-4/A16-3
Serial 0139

SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR

F
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
May 30, 1943.

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

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CSD 44 Conf, Ltr.
FB5-44/A16-3 Serial 018-S
of May 26, 1943.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of First War Patrol - Comments on.

1. Forwarded. The comments of Commander Submarine Division
FORTY-FOUR are complete and are concurred in.

2. The Squadron Commander takes pleasure in congratulating
the Commanding Officer, Officers, and Crew on an excellent patrol.

ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 28 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED - DOD DIR. 5200.9
Sep 58
[HANDWRITTEN: 9ec]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1d] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 4/28/77]]

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

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
June 4, 1943.

[STAMP: Reg. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 143.90]
R.S. No. [HANDWRITTEN: C 01218]]

Serial 0723
DECLASSIFIED

COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 190
U.S.S. SNOOK - FIRST WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of First War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of Subject War Patrol Report.
(B) Copy of Comsubdiv 44 Conf. ltr. FB5-44/A16-3,
serial 018-B of May 26, 1943.
(C) Copy of Comsubron 4 Conf. ltr. end. FC5-4/A16-3,
serial 0139 of May 30, 1943.

1. The first war patrol of the U.S.S. SNOOK was successfully
carried out. In addition to completing a particularly hazardous mine plant,
the SNOOK succeeded in sinking three ships and probably sinking a fourth.
SNOOK also destroyed one sampan and one motor trawler with gunfire.

2. Excellent use of the SJ radar by the SNOOK is noted. Unusual
ranges up to 80,000 yards on land and up to 50,000 yards on ships were obtained.
It is of interest to note also that the maximum ranges were obtained on clear
nights when the water was calm and cool and the air was warmer than the water.
The six attacks were made at night and full use was made of the SJ radar during
these attacks.

3. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for this successful first patrol. The
SNOOK is credited with having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy:

[STAMP: COMMANDER IN CHIEF,
U.S. FLEET
RECEIVED
1943 JUN 17
16
13]

SUNK
1 - Freighter (Class unknown) - 4,000 tons
1 - Freighter (Class unknown) - 5,700 tons
1 - Freighter (Class unknown) - 2,210 tons
*1 - Sampan - 50 tons
*1 - Motor Trawler - 80 tons
TOTAL: 12,040 tons

* Destroyed by gunfire.

DAMAGED
1 - Freighter (Class unknown) - 7,000 tons

[STAMP: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 50531]

Distribution and authentication
on following page.
C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

— page 30 —
F12-10/A16-3(18)
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0104
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
4 Feb. 1946.
CONFIDENTIAL

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To: The Chief of Naval Operations.
Via: The Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of First War Patrol.

Reference: (a) ComSubPac third end. F12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) serial 0723
of 4 June 1943.

1. In an early morning surface action on 7 May 1943 in position
36-05 N, 123-21 E, U.S.S. SNOOK attacked an escorted five-ship convoy, firing
a torpedo spread at the two largest targets. One definite torpedo hit was
heard but there was considerable question at the time as to whether or not
any other hits were obtained. Reference (a) credited SNOOK with damaging
one unidentified freighter of 7,000 tons.

2. Reliable intelligence reports now clearly indicate that as a
result of SNOOK's above described attack, two ships, the TOSHI MARU of 3,500
tons and the DAI 3 sunk. Accordingly, reference (a) is modified as follows:

(a) Delete all after the word "enemy" in paragraph 3 and substitute
therefore:

SUNK
1 - AK (Class unknown) 4,000 tons
1 - AK (Class unknown) 5,700 tons
1 - AK (Class unknown) 2,210 tons
1 - AK (TOSHI MARU) 3,500 tons
1 - AK (DAI 3 SHINSEI MARU) 1,250 tons
*1 - Sampan 50 tons
*1 - Motor trawler 80 tons
TOTAL SUNK 16,790 tons

* Destroyed by gunfire.

[STAMP: RECEIVED SC FILES]
[SIGNATURE: Frank T. Watkins] Room 2055
Chief of Staff TO 03
21 FEB 1946
File No. SC/A16-3/23/SS279
Doc. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 196770]
Copy No. [HANDWRITTEN: 10] of [HANDWRITTEN: 12]
Reg. No.

Distribution & authentication
on next page.

- 1 -

— page 31 —
FF12-10/A16-3(18)                               SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0104                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                           San Francisco, California.
CONFIDENTIAL                                                               4 Feb. 1946.

Subject: U.S.S. SHOOK (SS279) - Report of First War Patrol.

DISTRIBUTION:

CNO                                                                        (12)
Cincpac                                                                    (6)
JICPOA                                                                     (1)
Comservpac                                                                 (1)
Cinclant                                                                   (1)
ComSubLant                                                                 (1)
S/M School, IL                                                             (8)
CO, S/M Base, PH                                                           (2)
Comsubpac                                                                  (1)
ComSubsPhilSeaFron                                                         (1)
ComorPac                                                                   (2)
ComSubSoPac                                                                (4)
SUBAD, XI                                                                  (1)
All Squadrons and Div.                                                     (40)
Comdrs. Pacific                                                            (2)
ComSuboTraer                                                               (5)
All Submarines, Pacific                                                    (1)
Capt. C. C. Triebel, USN.                                                  (1)

[SIGNATURE: W. B. Sidlaff]
W. B. Sidlaff,
Commander, USN,
Flag Secretary.

[UNCLEAR: 17381]

— page 32 —
SS279/A16-3
Serial (X-19)
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Submarine Division 141.
(2) Commander Submarine Squadron 14.
(3) Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK, Report of War Patrol Number 2.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart.
(C) Bathythermograph Cards.
(D) Log of Radio Signals received on 500 kcs.

1.
Enclosures, covering the second war patrol of
this vessel conducted in an area between 27°-30' N and 29°-00' N
latitude and between the longitudes of the NANSEI SHOTO and
CHINA Coast, are forwarded herewith. Departed from MIDWAY
3 June 1943; returned to PEARL 12 July 1943.

U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)
c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.,
July 18, 1943.

C.O. TRIMM.

ENCLOSURE (A).

— page 33 —
SS279/A16-3
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

U.S.S. SNOOK - REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL.

Period from 9 June 1943 to 18 July 1943.

Operation Order No.

PROLOGUE
Arrived Midway from First War Patrol at 0800, 25 May 1943. Com-
pleted 10 days' refit (minor repairs and alterations) on 3
June 1943. Two day training period. Ready for sea 9 June 1943.
Departed Midway at 1810, 9 June 1943.

1. BRIEF NARRATIVE.

9 June 1943
1810 VW Underway in company with U.S.S. JACK to 30 mile circle covered
by air escorts from MIDWAY.

10-14 June 1943
Uneventful cruising enroute area with daily dives and fire con-
trol drills.
1518 L Changed course and increased speed to get to special area
designated.

15 June 1943
0331 L Avoided 200 ton dark patrol boat 250 miles bearing 022 from
MARCUS. First picked up by SJ radar at 2400 yards ahead.

16 June 1943
Slowed for dives and drills.

17 June 1943
Uneventful.

18 June 1943
0710 K Sighted plane 8 miles and dove.
0910 K Surfaced.
1300 K Dove for high periscope patrol. Believed distant air screen
would be maintained by small planes.
1930 K Surfaced and stood North at 10 knots until

- 1 -

— page 39 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of SECOND War Patrol.
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of SECOND War Patrol.

— page 41 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of SECOND War Patrol.

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

No. | Time | Lat. | Type | Initial | Course | How | Remarks.
    | Date | Long. |      | Range   | Alt.   | Contacted |
----|------|------|------||||
1.  | 0710 K | 20°-54'N | 4 Engine Bomber |         | 150°   |           |
    | 6-18-43 | 139°-47'E |      |         | Alt. 5° |           |
2.  | 0956 I | 28°-30'N | Unknown | 9 miles | Unknown | SD Radar  | Weather over-
    | 6-22-43 | 130°-30'E |      |         |        | contact   | cast.
3.  | 1545 | 28°-40'N | Bi-plane(Old | 4 miles | 195°   | Sight     |
    | 6-22-43 | 130°-00'E | land type) |         | Alt. 5° |           |
4.  | 1352 I | 28°-50'N | Low wing mono- | 2000 yds | Unknown | Periscope | Patrolling
    | 6-24-43 | 127°-00'E | plane |         |        |           | over damaged
    |       |          |      |         |        |           | tanker. Do not
    |       |          |      |         |        |           | think convoy
    |       |          |      |         |        |           | had air screen
    |       |          |      |         |        |           | until after
    |       |          |      |         |        |           | attack.
5.  | 0807 | 28°-40'N | Unknown | 6000 yds | Unknown |           | Daylight patrol
    | 7-4-43 | 124°-10'E |      |         |        |           | over area of
    |       |          |      |         |        |           | previous night
    |       |          |      |         |        |           | attacks.

[HANDWRITTEN: -9-]

[HANDWRITTEN: 9]

— page 55 —
CONFIDENTIAL                               U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)
Subject:                                 U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of SECOND War Patrol.

— page 64 —
FB5-141/A16-3
Serial 0143

SUBMARINE DIVISION 141
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
20 July, 1943.

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
USS SNOOK report of
War Patrol Number 2,
dated 18 July, 1943.

From: The Commander, Submarine Division 141.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron Fourteen.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK, Report of War Patrol Number 2.

1. Forwarded.

2. ATTACKS:

The first attack resulted in damaging a large tanker. Escort-
ing destroyers and planes succeeded in preventing SNOOK from following up
this attack to insure destruction of the cripple.

The series of attacks carried out on the convoy on the Fourth
of July is very remarkable. The courage, intelligence, ability,
dogged determination and clear sighted vision displayed by the
Commanding Officer combined with the brilliant cooperation of his
officers and crew was outstanding. It is recommended that the detail-
ed account of this running battle, with the excellent track chart
furnished by SNOOK, be furnished the Officer in Charge of the Attack
Teacher to be studied by all Commanding Officer and Prospective
Commanding Officers during their training periods.

3. Material condition of SNOOK upon return to base was
very good. Moral was high. Refit will be completed in the normal
time. Docking is desired.

4. The full and intelligent use of all equipment with
which the ship is furnished is notable. The Commanding Officer
expertly countered some very determined opposition. The
coverage of the area assigned was very good.

5. It is impossible to talk to the officers and men
of this ship without noting an unmistakable determination of all
hands to carry out the fine example set by the Commanding Officer
to hit the enemy hard. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew
are congratulated on the damage they inflicted.

LEO L. PACE.

Copy to: CO SNOOK.

- 1 -

ENCLOSURE (B).

— page 65 —
FC5-14/A16-3
Serial 02.

CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
COMSUBDIV 141. Ltr. A16-3
Serial X-19, dated
18 July 1943.

From:
To :
Subject:

1.
Submarine Division 141.

2.
with the exception of attack number 6, where it is possible that
the run was too short to permit arming of the exploder. Even in-
cluding this performance the average is very good.

3.
ing Officer, Officers and Crew of the SNOOK for turning in an
excellent patrol and considers that the Fourth of July was celeb-
rated on the SNOOK in a proper fashion.

SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOURTEEN
Hrw
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
20 July 1943.

The Commander Submarine Squadron Fourteen.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Second War
Patrol.

Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of Commander

Torpedo performance and control was excellent

The Squadron Commander congratulates the Command-

[HANDWRITTEN: J. B. Longstaff]
J. B. LONGSTAFF

ENCLOSURE (C)

— page 66 —
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET 1d
Serial 0989
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
July 31, 1943.
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED - DOD DIR. 5200.9]
[STAMP: of 27 Sep 58]
[STAMP: BY [UNCLEAR: NARA/initials] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 4/28/71]]

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 220
U.S.S. SNOOK - SECOND WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Second War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Copy of subject war patrol report.
(B) Copy of Comsubdiv 141 Conf. 1st. end. FB5-141/A16-3,
Serial 0143 of 20 July 1943.
(C) Copy of Comsubron 14 Conf. 2nd. FB5-14/A16-3,
Serial 02 of 20 July 1943.

1. This second war patrol was another aggressive and successful
war patrol for the SNOOK.

2. The attack in the early morning hours of the fourth of July was
an outstanding example of a radar attack where the entire fire control party
functioned with highest efficiency in carrying out attacks on three ships of
the enemy convoy. The entire series of attacks on the convoy was made by radar
on an extremely black and rainy night. The SNOOK fired 19 torpedoes in less
than three hours at the convoy.

3. It is unfortunate that conditions were such that the SNOOK was
unable to witness the final results of the attacks made on the convoy; however,
it is felt certain from the observations of the hits that serious damage was
inflicted on the enemy.

4. This patrol is considered successful for Combat Insignia award.

5. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for their second successful war patrol.
The SNOOK is credited with having inflicted the following damage to the enemy:

SUNK
1 - Tanker (NISSEN MARU class) - 17,579 tons

DAMAGED
1 - Tanker (HUZISAN MARU class) - 9,527 tons
1 - Freighter (unknown class) - 5,000 tons
1 - Freighter (unknown class) - 10,000 tons
TOTAL: 24,527 tons

[STAMP: RECEIVED]
[STAMP: 19 AUG 1943]
[HANDWRITTEN: FM LE 10-A16-3(5)/A16-3]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY WMR PDD]
[HANDWRITTEN: FF No. 91215]
[HANDWRITTEN: 300 No.]
[HANDWRITTEN: R&R]

Distribution and authentication - 1 - C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.
on following page.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED] [HANDWRITTEN: 132958]

— page 67 —
1d
FF12-10/A16-3(5)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0989
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
CONFIDENTIAL July 31, 1943.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 220
U.S.S. SNOOK - SECOND WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Second War Patrol.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (5)
VCNO (5)
Cincpac (5)
Serforpac
(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. SNOOK (1)
(COMSUBSPAC Endorsement only:)
All Submarines, Subspac (1)

[SIGNATURE: R. C. Lawver]
R. C. LAWVER,
Flag Secretary.

— page 68 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL.
Period from 18 August 1943 to 8 October 1943.
Operation Order No.

A. PROLOGUE
    Arrived PEARL 18 July 1943 after SECOND War Patrol. Commenced
    refit 19 July 1943 by Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, U.S.S. BUSHNELL,
    and relief crew. Refit consisted of docking, aligning both
    propeller shafts, rewooding stern tubes and strut bearings,
    renewing high pressure air receiving manifold, installation of
    Remote Plan Indicating Radar unit, installing doubling plating
    between frames Nos. 105 and 108, and installing Mark XVIII tor-
    pedo charging panels. Ready for sea 13 August 1943. Conducted
    three days' training exercises. 16 August 1943 sound tests
    were conducted in West Loch, Pearl. Departed Pearl 18 August
    1943.

B. BRIEF NARRATIVE.
    18 August 1943
    1300 VW Underway for MIDWAY in company USS PARGO accompanied by
         surface escort until dark.

    19-22 August
    Uneventful cruising with daily dives and fire control
    drills. PARGO was visible to 6000 yards on a dark clear
    night when we knew where to look for her. Received orders
    in MIDWAY to reconnoiter MARCUS prior to raid and stand
    by during the day following.

    22-29 August
    Enroute MARCUS at slow speed. Daily dives and drills.

    30 August
    0430 K Submerged and an hour later sighted radio towers on MARCUS.
         Spent the day slowly circumnavigating the island. Took
         a complete set of pictures. One small 100 ton boat was
         the only ship present. Two NELLIES were seen to land dur-
         ing the day. There was undoubtedly more patrol activity
         not observed. The periscope had to be used cautiously
         due to a glassy sea and out proximity to the island.

    31 August
    Submerged patrol in vicinity of MARCUS.

    1 September
    0425 K Submerged 10 miles north of MARCUS while still dark.
    0450 K Sighted AA fire on MARCUS followed by bombs just as the
         first streak of light appeared on the eastern horizon.

-1-

— page 69 —
SS279/A16/A9
Serial (X-27)
DECLASSIFIED

U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
8 October 1943.

To : The Commanding Officer,
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(2) The Commander Submarine Division 141.
(3) The Commander Submarine Squadron Fourteen.

Subject: Report of War Patrol No. 3.

Enclosures: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart.
(C) Bathythermograph Cards.

1. Enclosures, covering the Third War Patrol of
this vessel are forwarded herewith. The area of operations
included the HWANG HAI (YELLOW SEA) and that part of the
TUNG HAI (EAST CHINA SEA) encompassed by the CHINA coast and
a line between the YANGTZE entrance and the southwestern tip
of CHOSEN (KOREA). Departed from PEARL 18 August 1943, re-
turned to PEARL 8 October 1943.

C. O. TRIEBEL.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED - DOD DIR 5200.8
of 27 Sep 58
BY [UNCLEAR: 92C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 4/28/71]]

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED
57645]

— page 75 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL.

29 September (Continued)
point detonating hits was not impressive.

The gun or guns (.25 cal.) which he was firing were
not sighted by anyone. Left him dead in the water set-
tling with a port list.

1430 K Set course for MIDWAY at full speed on three engines the
maximum we could make with the fuel remaining.

30 September- 2 October
Uneventful cruising enroute Midway.

3 October
0629 L Contacted CRYSTAL. Lieutenant Commander J. W. SKINNER (MC)
U.S.N.R., came aboard. Resumed course for Midway.

4-7 October
Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, on leaving
MIDWAY, boarded enroute to PEARL. Uneventful cruising.

8 October
Arrived PEARL.

C. WEATHER
The weather was excellent during this patrol. Sights were
obtained practically every morning and evening.

D. TIDAL INFORMATION
The current information in the proximity of TOKARA JIMA
checked very closely with our pilot charts. The current in the
area, Latitude 29°N to 30°N, Longitude 124°E to 125°-30'E does
not agree with Pilot Chart; your set is west towards the coast
about 0.5 knots.

E. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
Lights observed burning:
SHAVEISHAN
NORTH SADDLE
DAIOKATO
TAKE TO
KAIYO TO
N.E. PROMY (Exhibits Light List characteristics)

Lights not burning:
ROUND ISLAND (EN TO)

Soundings:
Soundings taken in vicinity of the YANGTZE Bank and
WAICHANGSHAN Channel checked very well with the charts of these
areas.

- 7 -

— page 79 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL

ATTACK DATA

Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 3, Time 1937 GCT, 11 September 1943
Lat. 31°-21'N, Long. 122°-42'E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: First contact was sighting of smoke from bridge at
             evening twilight; visibility was good. Target was un
             identified single stack, well deck freighter of
             about 4000 tons. Target was in a convoy consisting
             of six ships averaging about 4000 tons escorted by
             two patrol vessels. Ships were in a line of columns,
             two columns of three ships each with one escort
             trailing and one leading the formation. Target was
             the second ship in the right column. Convoy was zig-
             zagging on base course 255°T, speed 10.5 knots.

Ship(s) sunk:
Ship(s) damaged
or probably sunk:
Damage determined
by:

Target draft: 20 feet
Target course: 160°T Speed: 10.5 Range: 2150 yards.

Own ship Data

Speed: 8 knots Course: 215°T Depth: on surface Angle: 0°

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Conducted surface radar attack. Sight contact was
             made at 6000 yards after which sight bearings ob-
             tained with the Target Bearing Transmitter were used
             in the Target Data Computer. Radar contact was made
             at 13,000 yards. Both radar bearings and ranges were
             used in the Target Data Computer until sight contact,
             after sight contact ranges only. Fired three bow
             tube torpedoes, 2 degree divergent spread, average
             gyro 356°, 130 port track, range 2150 yards. Target
             made a radical change in course to the left just
             before firing and is believed to have slowed down.
             All torpedoes missed ahead.

- 11 -

— page 92 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL.

I. MINES.
    No mines or mine sweeping activity were observed.

J. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

    Two convoys contacted were zigging on bright moonlight
nights. Echo ranging gear was not manned until subsequent to our
attack.

    I endeavored to head toward the attacking escort
during his first two runs when it was assumed he was listening.
When we heard him warming up his echo ranging gear we successfully
lost him by running away at slow speed. Maneuvers were conducted
at 120 feet in 150 feet of water. Depth charges seemed to go off
above us.

K. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

    Torpedo Firing Valves
    Firing valves on #1 and #3 tubes were sluggish in operation;
both valves stuck in the open position after firing torpedoes.

    During return from area water slugs were fired from all tubes
and pressures taken. Maximum pressure of 50 lbs. per sq. in. obtained
on #2 tube at 63 feet depth using 300 lbs per sq. in. impulse pressure
was definitely too low. Firing valves on tubes #1, #3, #6, and #8
were found sluggish sticking in the open position.

    This poor firing valve performance is considered to be a con-
tributing factor to the torpedo trouble experienced during this
patrol.

- 24 -

— page 96 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - REPORT OF THIRD WAR PATROL.

U. REMARKS.

     I missed as did all officers aboard, copies of the
recent patrol reports of other submarines. These we had used on
previous patrols for study and discussion of current tactics.
There are such a number of these reports now they could be printed
and bound in weighted book form. They would form a valuable refer-
ence library for all submarines.

- 28 -

— page 97 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION 141
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
11 October 1943.

FD5-141/A16-3/A9
Serial: 0169

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS SNOOK ltr SS279/A16/A9
Serial (X-27) of 10/8/43.

From: The Commander, Submarine Division 141.
To : The Commander, Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via : The Commander, Submarine Squadron 14.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of War Patrol No. 3.

1. The Third War Patrol of the SNOOK was of 42 days
duration, of which eighteen days were spent in the patrol area.
The expenditure of all torpedoes was the limiting factor of this
patrol. The area was thoroughly covered and the patrol was well
and aggressively conducted.

2. FIRST ATTACK, 11 September 1943.

Target was a single stack freighter of 4,000 tons
in a convoy of six ships escorted by two patrol vessels. Convoy
was zig-zagging. Surface radar attack was made and three bow tube
torpedoes were fired. Misses were due to the target slowing down
and making a radical change in course just before firing. All
torpedoes passed ahead.

SECOND ATTACK, 12 September 1943.

Another 4,000 ton freighter in same convoy as in
first attack. Three bow tube torpedoes were fired and missed ahead
for same reason as in first attack.

THIRD ATTACK, 12 September 1943.

This was a well executed periscope-radar attack in
bright moonlight. Target was an AP of 9,000 tons in a convoy of
five ships escorted by three patrol vessels. Convoy was zig-zagging,
base course and overall speed was accurately determined by good
tracking. At time of firing, a multiple target was presented as
other ships of the convoy overlapped the target forward and astern.
This made a beautiful target 700 feet long and it is regretted
that only one torpedo out of six hit. On the basis that either
the third or fourth torpedo hit the target, five hits should have
been obtained.

- 1 -

— page 98 —
Hrw.
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
12 October 1943.

FC5-14/A16-3/A9
SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOURTEEN
Serial 041
CONFIDENTIAL

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO SNOOK Conf. ltr. SS279/
A16/A9 Serial (X-27) of
8 October 1943.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of War Patrol No. 3.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks made in the
first endorsement.

2. The question of the use of the 3" gun in one that
will continue to occur. The engagement by SNOOK appears to have
been warranted by careful observation of enemy lack of armament,
the advantage of surprise, and the conservative range chosen. The
absence of destructive effect of 3" hits permitted a Jap sharp-
shooter to inflict such punishment on the crews of the automatic
weapons that withdrawal was necessary.

3. The Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew of
SNOOK are congratulated on an aggressive patrol.

J. B. LONGSTAFF.

Copy to:
Comsubdiv 141.
CO SNOOK.

— page 99 —
FBS-141/A16-3/19
Serial: 0169
CONFIDENTIAL

SUBMARINE DIVISION 141

11 October 1943.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of War Patrol No. 3.

— page 100 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION 141
F35-141/A16-3/A9
Serial: 0169
11 October 1943.
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of War Patrol No. 3.

— page 101 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 2ND Copy]
FF12-10/A16-3(8)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET 1d
Serial 01459
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
CONFIDENTIAL 14 October 1943.
[STAMP: RECEIVED SC FILES]
[HANDWRITTEN: Room 2055]
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to [STAMP: 8 NOV 1943]
SNOOK Report of [HANDWRITTEN: ROUTE TO: 01-02]
Third War Patrol.

[HANDWRITTEN: A16-3(23)/8279]
[HANDWRITTEN: (S2)...]
COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 283 [HANDWRITTEN: File No. 98507]
U.S.S. SNOOK - THIRD WAR PATROL. [HANDWRITTEN: Copy No. 2 of 5]
[HANDWRITTEN: PBM 496]

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet. Copy No. 2 of 5

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Third War Patrol.
(18 August to 8 October 1943).

1. The third war patrol of the SNOOK was conducted in the Yellow
and the East China Seas. In addition, the SNOOK was the stand-by submarine
during the Marcus raid.

2. The patrol was aggressive throughout. Excellent area coverage
was made, which resulted in finding many suitable targets.

3. The gun attack on the small wooden vessel was well planned and
conducted. The wounding of four men was apparently caused by the actions of
a sniper aboard the enemy.

4. This patrol is considered successful for Combat Insignia Award.

5. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for this third aggressive and successful
war patrol. The SNOOK is credited with inflicting the following damage to the
enemy:

SUNK
1 - Transport (class unknown) - 9,000 tons
1 - Freighter (OMI MARU class) - 3,393 tons
TOTAL: 12,393 tons

DAMAGED
1 - Small Wooden Freighter (class
unknown) - 300 tons *

* By gunfire.

Distribution and authentication C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.
on following page.

- 1 -

Finished-Ragan-File

— page 103 —
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.
                                                                7 December 1943.

SS279/A16
Serial (X-23)

CONFIDENTIAL
DECLASSIFIED

From:          The Commanding Officer.
To   :          The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via  :          (1) The Commander Submarine Division 141.
               (2) The Commander Submarine Squadron 14.

Subject:       Report of FOURTH War Patrol.

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

               1.      Enclosures, covering the FOURTH War Patrol of
this vessel are forwarded herewith. The patrol area covered
Empire trade routes to the south between Latitudes 15° and 25°
North and Longitudes 130° and 150° East. Departed from PEARL
30 October 1943, returned to MIDWAY 7 December 1943.

                                                                [SIGNATURE: C.O. Triebel]
                                                                C. O. TRIEBEL.

                                        DECLASSIFIED ADT. C445. OPNAVINST 5510
                                        BY [HANDWRITTEN: GIC] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 10-13-66]

[STAMP: FILMED]
[STAMP: 62128]

— page 104 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS 279)

U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - REPORT OF FOURTH WAR PATROL.
Period from 30 October to 5 December 1943.
Operation Order No.

A. PROLOGUE

     Arrived PEARL 8 October 1943 after Third War Patrol.
     Commenced refit 8 October 1943 by U.S.S. BUSHNELL and
     relief crew. Refit consisted of routine work plus install-
     ation of dead reckoning tracer, replacing S.J. type C-43
     AAF Radar transmitter with type CW-43 AAF-1, and conversion
     of No. 1 lubricating oil stowage tank into a sanitary tank.
     Ready for sea 24 October 1943. Conducted sound tests and
     deperming 24 October 1943 at Pearl Harbor. Conducted train-
     ing exercises 25 October until 27 October 1943.

B. BRIEF NARRATIVE

     30 October 1943
1300 VW Underway from PEARL enroute MIDWAY in company PARGO and
     HARDER, group commander, Commander F. B. WARDER in
     PARGO.

     1-3 November 1943
     Exercised independently and with other ships in group
     on attack and communication problems. Following noted of
     interest: (1) Another submarine SJ sweep is picked up
     at about 20 mile range on our equipment. A bearing
     within 10° can then be obtained. (2) The moon was two
     and three days on the dark side of the first quarter.
     When we knew where to look a submarine was visible at
     4,500 yards with a sharp angle and about 6,500 yards
     broadside through good binoculars.

     4 November
     Had our dark gray paint lightened in MIDWAY. Fueled
     and group departed for area.

     6-11 November
     Enroute area conducting daily drills and dives.

     12 November
1305 K Submerged on SD contact for 45 minutes.
1920 K Surprised by HARDER'S message that they had sunk two
     ships.

                                   - 1 -
[HANDWRITTEN: 7]

— page 119 —
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279.)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of FOURTH War Patrol.

Attack No. 4 (Continued)

TUBES FIRED         : #7       : #8       :
                    :          :          :
TRACK ANGLE         : 101 S    : 102 S    :
                    :          :          :
GYRO ANGLE          : 189      : 183      :
                    :          :          :
DEPTH SET           : 8'       : 8'       :
                    :          :          :
POWER               : High     : High     :
                    :          :          :
HIT or MISS         : Miss     : Miss     :
                    :          :          :
ERRATIC             : No       : No       :
                    :          :          :
MARK TORPEDO        : 14-3A    : 14-3A    :
                    :          :          :
SERIAL NO.          : 39818    : 39811    :
                    :          :          :
MARK EXPLODER       : 6-1      : 6-1      :
                    :          :          :
SERIAL NO.          : 2800     : 18018    :
                    :          :          :
ACTUATION SET       : Cont.    : Cont.    :
                    :          :          :
ACTUATION ACTUAL    : ---      : ---      :
                    :          :          :
MARK WARHEAD        : 16       : 16       :
                    :          :          :
SERIAL NO.          : 305      : 11093    :
                    :          :          :
EXPLOSIVE           : Torpex   : Torpex   :
                    :          :          :
FIRING INTERVAL     : 0        : 10 Sec.  :
                    :          :          :
TYPE SPREAD Div.    : 2 R      : 3/4 L    :
                    :          :          :
SEA CONDITIONS      : Moderate : Moderate :
                    : swell    : swell    :
                    :          :          :
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY   : BUSHNELL : BUSHNELL :

- 16 -

[HANDWRITTEN: (22)]
[HANDWRITTEN: 22]

— page 127 —
CONFIDENTIAL                                                U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

Subject:         U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of FOURTH War Patrol.

— page 128 —
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)
                                                                1 031
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of FOURTH War Patrol.

— page 129 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION 141

F35-141/A16(0179)                                  Care of Fleet Post Office
                                                  San Francisco, California.
                                                  8 December 1943.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT
to USS SNOOK Fourth
War Patrol. SS279/
A16, Ser (X-BE) of
12/7/43

CONFIDENTIAL

From:        The Commander Submarine Division 141.
To :         The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via :        The Commander Submarine Squadron 14.

Subject:     Report of Fourth War Patrol.

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

             1. Comments on "wolf pack" tactics and results are
restricted to the following pending the group commander's report
and recommendations. Contact reports which give bearings and
distance from a ship, whose position within 20-50 miles is un-
certain to other ships, need revision. On 19 November contact
reports of this type were received by SNOOK; enclosures were
heard; yet SNOOK was unable to make contact. On 20 November lack
of knowledge of movements, position and tactics of FARGO left a
great deal of uncertainty in the mind of the Commanding Officer
of SNOOK.

             2. In six attacks, nine (9) hits out of twenty-four
(24) shots were made.

             3. It is indicated that more power is necessary to
obtain satisfactory results from the MAIN FOX.

             4. IFF should be provided submarines as soon as
possible.

             5. Refit will be accomplished by SNOOK in ten (10)
days.

             6. At end of next patrol it is recommended the SNOOK
be given Navy Yard or Submarine Base Pearl availability for accom-
plishment of many authorized alterations; and at that time all
personnel who have made four or more successive patrols be
granted leave in the United States.

                                  - 1 -

[HANDWRITTEN: (4)]                                                              [HANDWRITTEN: 4]

— page 130 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION 141

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST INDORSEMENT
to USS SNOOK Fourth
War Patrol. SS279/
Ser (X-28) of
12/7/43

Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California.
8 December 1943.

7.
The Division Commander takes pleasure in again con-
gratulating the Commanding Officer, Officers and crew of SNOOK
for the damage inflicted on the enemy. This is the fourth success-
ive patrol for Commander Triebel and many of his officers and men,
that has resulted in substantial damage to the enemy. It is also
noteworthy that SNOOK has trained and transferred to other sub-
marines, in the comparatively short period of ten (10) months, an
extraordinarily large number of excellent officers and men.

[SIGNATURE: J. F. Pace]
J. F. PACE.
COMMANDER.

[HANDWRITTEN: (3)]
[HANDWRITTEN: 5]

— page 131 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1 031]

F05-14/A16-3
Serial 066.

CONFIDENTIAL

COMMANDER SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOURTEEN
Hrw.
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
10 December 1943.

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
USS SNOOK Fourth War
Patrol. SS279/A16 Serial
(X-281) of 7 Dec. 1943.

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

Subject: Report of Fourth War Patrol.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of Commander
Submarine Division One Hundred FORTY-ONE.

2. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Command-
ing Officer, Officers and Crew of the SNOOK on this patrol which
conforms to the high standard set by their previous patrols.

J. B. LONGSTAFF.

Copy to:
Comsubdiv 141
CO SNOOK.

[HANDWRITTEN: (3)]
[HANDWRITTEN: 3]

— page 132 —
[STAMP: 24230]
[STAMP: 1 031]
[HANDWRITTEN: 5 copies]

FF12-10/A16-3(8)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 01914
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California,
14 December 1943.

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SNOOK Report of
Fourth War Patrol.

NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE DESTROYED
PRIOR TO ENTERING PATROL AREA.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 327
U.S.S. SNOOK - FOURTH WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Fourth War Patrol.
(30 October to 7 December 1943).

1. The fourth war patrol of the U.S.S. SNOOK was conducted in areas
around the Marianas Islands. The SNOOK was one of three ships of the second co-
ordinated attack group to operate from Pearl Harbor.

2. The SNOOK concentrated all its action in a series of attacks on
a convoy the night of 28-29 November. Showing exceptional aggression, the SNOOK
conducted six attacks and was successful in five of them, sinking two large
freighters and damaging three more. These series of attacks indicate the fine
teamwork and unusual ability of the fire control party.

3. This patrol of the SNOOK, like that of the other two submarines
in the attack group, was conducted primarily on the surface, diving only upon
sight or radar plane contact.

4. This patrol is considered successful for Combat Insignia Award.

5. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for this fourth aggressive and successful
war patrol. The SNOOK is credited with having inflicted the following damage:

S U N K
1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 7,000 tons
1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 7,500 tons
TOTAL: 14,500 tons

[STAMP: FILMED]
[STAMP: 62128]

D A M A G E D
1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 4,000 tons
1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 6,000 tons
1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 3,500 tons
TOTAL: 13,500 tons

* ½ credit - also damaged by PARGO.
Distribution and authentication
on following page.
- 1 -

[STAMP: COMMANDER IN CHIEF U.S. FLEET RECEIVED DEC 31 1943]
J. H. BROWN, Jr.,
Acting.

— page 134 —
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED - DOD DIR. 5200.9
of 27 Sep 58
BY [HANDWRITTEN: 72C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 4/29/71]]

SS279/A16
Serial (X-36)
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
6 March 1944.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division 141.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron 14.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

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

1. Enclosures, covering the Fifth War Patrol of this
vessel, are hereby forwarded. Patrol was conducted in the East
China Sea off the West Coast of KYUSHU covering the entrances to
NAGASAKI and SHIMONOSEKI. Departed from PEARL 6 January 1944;
returned to PEARL, 6 March 1944.

[SIGNATURE: C. O. Triebel]
C. O. TRIEBEL.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 68690]

— page 136 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION ONE HUNDRED FORTY-ONE
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
8 March 1944.

F5-141/A16-3
Serial: 010
CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS SNOOK Ltr. A16-3
Serial (X-36) of 3-6-44.

From: The Commander Submarine Division 141.
To : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron FOURTEEN.

Subject: USS SNOOK - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

1. The fifth war patrol of the SNOOK was conducted
in the East China Sea. The duration was 60 days of which 18 days
were spent in the area. Termination of the patrol was limited
by the operation order.

2. This was another out-standing aggressive and pro-
ductive patrol. All attacks were excellently handled and the
control party functioned perfectly. Six attacks were made, five
of which were successful and a total of five enemy ships were sunk.

3. The last attack on 23 February was especially
noteworthy. This was a night surface radar attack on a freighter
of 6,000 tons in convoy with 2 other freighters and eleven or more
patrol vessels. Considerable difficulty was encountered penetrating
this screen, never the less, 2 hits were made and the target sank.
From verbal information of the C.O. it was learned that the second
attack on 8 February was made by the Executive Officer, Lt. STOCKTON,
USNR. Because of diving difficulties, the C.O. took over this
station and the conn was turned over to Lt. STOCKTON. The attack
was very well executed and three out of four hits were made on the
target. This officer has been previously observed during the
training period and the Division Commander concurs with the C.O.
that this officer be recommended for a command of his own at an
early date.

4. Including this patrol, it is of great interest to
note that the SNOOK has sunk 83,912 tons and damaged 51,527 tons
since commissioning and under command of the same commanding officer.

5. The health and morale of the crew seemed excellent.
The material condition of the SNOOK is good, but the navy yard
overhaul now scheduled is timely.

— page 137 —
FC5-14/A16-3
Serial 034.

CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO SNOOK Conf. Ltr. A16-3
Serial (X-36) of 6 Mar. 1944.

From:
To :
Subject:

1.
Division One Hundred Forty-One in his remarks.

2.
SNOOK are congratulated on maintaining the record of excellent
patrols, which practice has now become habitual.

Copy to:
Comsubdiv 141
CO SNOOK. SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOURTEEN
Hrw.
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
9 March 1944.

The Commander Submarine Squadron Fourteen.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
USS SNOOK - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

Forwarded, concurring with the Commander Submarine

The Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the

J. B. LONGSTAFF.

[HANDWRITTEN: 3-02676]

[HANDWRITTEN: 3 02675]

— page 138 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - REPORT OF FIFTH WAR PATROL.

Period from 6 January to 6 MAR 1944

Operation Order No. 12-44.

A. PROLOGUE.
    Arrived MIDWAY ISLANDS 7 December 1943 after FOURTH War
    Patrol. Commenced refit 7 December 1943 by USS BUSHNELL.
    Completed 10 day refit 18 December 1943. One propeller was
    damaged during rough weather and it necessitated returning
    to PEARL for docking. Conducted three day training exer-
    cises. 6 January 1944 departed PEARL for Patrol.

B. BRIEF NARRATIVE.

    6 January 1944
    1300 VW Underway for patrol area via MIDWAY.

    7-10 January 1944
    Enroute conducting general and fire control drills. Ar-
    rived MIDWAY, fueled.

    11-22 January 1944
    Uneventful cruising enroute area. Conducted fire control
    drills and daily dives. Planesmen are poor due to turn-
    over of personnel and the fact last patrol was spent on
    the surface.

    23 January 1944
    0100 K Completed tuning SJ to maximum efficiency on SOFU GAN.
    0146 K Radar contact at 23,000 yards. Conducted radar attack
          on one large ship with small escort. Visibility zero,
          dark and rainy. Fired six torpedoes on radar bearings
          at 1500 yard range. Escort was running on the off
          quarter of target. Believe the expenditure of six tor-
          pedoes was justified in order to insure two hits in a
          large ship that was not seen. If the escort had had
          enough draft he probably would have been hit too. Tar-
          get was seen to be a large ship with high freeboard in
          the light of two torpedo hits. There were three more
          violent explosions aboard before he sank.

    24 January 1944
    Cruised submerged during day training planesmen.

- 1 -

— page 146 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

F. SHIP CONTACTS (Continued).

| No. Date         | Time | Position      | Type                                                              | Init. Range      | Course Speed           | Contacted | Remarks                                 |
||------|||||||
| 11. 2-15-44      |      | 34° 15'N      | Typical                                                           | ----             | ----                   | S & P     | One noted                               |
| to 2-16-44       |      | 128° 20'E     | Chinese                                                           |                  |                        |           | with en-                                |
|                  |      |               | junks                                                             |                  |                        |           | gines &                                 |
|                  |      |               |                                                                   |                  |                        |           | radio an-                               |
|                  |      |               |                                                                   |                  |                        |           | tenna.                                  | 12. 1009(I)      |      | 34° 18'N      | 1500 ton AK                                                       | 15,000-115°T     | 10.5 kn.               | P         | AK sunk.                                |
| 2-15-44          |      | 128° 23'E     |                                                                   | 20,000 yards     | 13. 1147(I)      |      | 34° 15'N      | Smoke                                                             | 20,000-***       |                        | P         | Could                                   |
| 2-15-44          |      | 128° 23'E     |                                                                   | 30,000 yards     |                        |           | not                                     |
|                  |      |               |                                                                   |                  |                        |           | close.                                  | 14. 1635(I)      |      | 34° 29'N      | Smoke                                                             | 20,000----       |                        | P         | Could                                   |
| 2-15-44          |      | 128° 15'E     |                                                                   | 30,000 yards     |                        |           | not                                     |
|                  |      |               |                                                                   |                  |                        |           | close.                                  | 15. 1140(I)      |      | 29° 15'N      | One large                                                         | 10,000 140°T     | zigzag                 | P         | ----                                    |
| 2-20-44          |      | 132° 27'E     | CV, two                                                           | yards            | 18.5 kn.               |           |                                         |
|                  |      |               | DD escorts                                                        | 16. 0751(I)      |      | 30° 10'N      | USS PLUNGER                                                       | 10,000 Course    | Sound                  |           | ----                                    |
| 2-23-44          |      | 140° 56'E     | SS179                                                             | yards & speed    | varied                 | 17. 0814(I)      |      | 30° 08'N      | Smoke which                                                       | 40,000-150°T     | zigzag                 | P         | ----                                    |
| 2-23-44          |      | 140° 58'E     | developed                                                         | 50,000 yards     | 8 kn.                  |           |                                         |
|                  |      |               | into 5 AK                                                         |                  |                        |           |                                         |
|                  |      |               | convoy with                                                       |                  |                        |           |                                         |
|                  |      |               | one DD and                                                        |                  |                        |           |                                         |
|                  |      |               | 10 small es-                                                      |                  |                        |           |                                         |
|                  |      |               | corts.                                                            | 18. 2123(I)      |      | 29° 08'N      | 3 AK with                                                         | 25,000 155°T     | zigzag                 | R         | Same con-                               |
| 2-23-44          |      | 141° 01'E     | one DD and                                                        | yards            | 8 kn.                  |           | tact as                                 |
|                  |      |               | 10 smaller                                                        |                  |                        |           | #17. One                                |
|                  |      |               | escorts.                                                          |                  |                        |           | 6000 ton                                |
|                  |      |               |                                                                   |                  |                        |           | AK sunk.                                |

- 9 -

— page 149 —
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

H. ATTACK DATA - Attack No. 1
Patrol No. 5, Time 0248(K), Date 23 January 1944.
Lat. 29°-49'ON, Long. 140°-07'5E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: First contact was by radar bearing 217°,
range 23,000 yards; night was moonless, com-
pletely overcast, with intermittent heavy
rain squalls. Targets were one unknown ship
of about 7,000 tons, and one unidentified es-
cort. Escort was keeping station on the port
quarter of unknown ship. The convoy was zig-
zagging on base course 350°(T), speed 9 knots.

Ship(s) sunk: One Unknown Ship of about 7,000 tons.
Ship(s) damaged
or probably sunk:
Damaged determined by: 2 hits observed; one minute later
target seen to blow up and five
minutes later, target pip disappeared
on radar.

Target draft: 11 feet
Target course: 010°T Speed: 10 knots Range: 2,000 yards.

Own Ship Data

Speed: 10 Knots Course 270°T Depth: Surface Angle: 0°

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: This was a night radar surface attack. Target
was picked up by radar at 23,000 yards, escort
was not picked up until range had closed to 14,
000 yards. Throughout the attack all firing
bearings and ranges were obtained entirely by
radar. (Visibility was too poor at firing point
to use bridge bridge Target Bearing Transmitters).
Six bow tubes were fired using a divergent
spread, total spread of 9° with average run of
1,660 yards, average track 82.5° starboard, and
average gyro 002.5°.
From previous performance of the radar, escort
would seem to be of about medium PC type size,
and the main target a medium to large ship
with very high freeboard.
- 12 -

— page 154 —
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

H. ATTACK DATA - Attack No. 3
    Patrol No. 5, Time 1617(I), Date 10 February 1944.
    Lat. 30° 55'N, Long. 129° 48'E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted
Description: Target was TSUBAME Class DM. Target was
             steady on course 070°(T), speed 10.5 knots.
             First contact was by sound on targets echo
             ranging at 1600(I). Tops of target were then
             picked up in No. 2 periscope bearing 243°(T),
             estimated range 8,500 yards.

Ships sunk: None.
Ships damaged or
probably sunk: None.
Damage determined
by: None.

Target draft: 8 feet.
Target course: 070°(T). Speed: 10.5 knots. Range 2,300 yards.

Own Ship Data
Speed: 3 knots. Course: 340°(T). Depth: 64 feet. Angle: 0°
to 1½° down.

Fire Control and Torpedo Data
Type Attack: This was a day periscope attack. Target's
             pinging was picked up by sound at about
             9,000 yards, and sight contact was made at
             estimated range of 8,500 yards. Periscope
             ranges, bearings, and angles on the bow were
             used as inputs to the Torpedo Data Computer.
             Four stern tubes were fired using a divergent
             spread, total spread 4°, with average range
             of 2,300 yards, average track 94.5 port, and
             average gyro 176.5°. Misses were due to over-
             estimation of target's speed, and shallow
             draft of target.

- 17 -

— page 160 —
CONFIDENTIAL                               U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

Subject:        U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

— page 169 —
[HANDWRITTEN: Extra Copy]
[HANDWRITTEN: J. P. Ers]

FF12-10/A16-3(15)/(12) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0491
CONFIDENTIAL

Reg. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 1622]
R.S. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 3-02674] [HANDWRITTEN: 3-02675]

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
13 March 1944.

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SNOOK Report of
Fifth War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 383
U.S.S. SNOOK - FIFTH WAR PATROL.

NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
(6 January to 6 March 1944).

1. The fifth war patrol of the SNOOK was conducted in the East China
Sea south of Korea.

2. The SNOOK, with her usual excellent performance, again turned in a
splendid patrol. All attacks were characteristic of the aggressive nature of her
Commanding Officer, being bold, well planned, and determined.

3. Six attacks were made, four of which were successful, and resulted
in sinking or damaging six enemy ships.

4. This patrol is designated as successful for Combat Insignia Award.

5. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for this most aggressive and successful war
patrol. The SNOOK is credited with having inflicted the following damage upon the
enemy:

SUNK

1 - Ship (type unknown) - 7,000 tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 6,300 tons (Attack No. 2)
1 - Passenger Freighter (similar to
ANYO MARU) - 6,000 tons (Attack No. 4)
1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 1,500 tons (Attack No. 5)
1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 6,000 tons (Attack No. 6)
TOTAL - 26,800 tons

DAMAGED

1 - Freighter (class unknown) - 6,200 tons (Attack No. 3)

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

Distribution and authentication on
following page.

- 1 -

— page 170 —
FF12-10/A16-3(15)/(12) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Serial 0491
CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SNOOK Report of
Fifth War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 383
U.S.S. SNOOK - FIFTH WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Fifth War Patrol.
(6 January to 6 March 1944).

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (5)[HANDWRITTEN: ✓]
CNO (5)
CinCpac (6)
Intel.Gen.Pac. Ocean Areas (1)
ComServPac
(Adv.Base Plan. Unit) (1)
CinClant (2)
ComSubLant (8)
S/M School, NL (2)
ComSoPac (2)
ComSoWesPac (1)
ComSubSowesPac (2)
CTF 72 (2)
ComNorPac (1)
ComSubPac (40)
SUBAD, MI (2)
ComSubPacSubordCom (3)
All Squadron and Div.
Commanders, SubPac (2)
ComSubSTrainPac (2)
All Submarines, SubPac (1)[HANDWRITTEN: Tied]

[SIGNATURE: E. L. Hymes]
E. L. HYMES, 2d,
Flag Secretary.

hch
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
13 March 1944.

NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.

[STAMP: (upside down)
COMMANDER IN CHIEF
U.S. FLEET
RECEIVED
1944 MAR 29 20 53]

— page 171 —
SS279/A16/49
Serial (X-31)
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
14 August 1944.
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: JLD/JBt] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/16/77]

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division EIGHTY-ONE.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHT.
(3) The Commander Task Group 17.5
(4) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of SIXTH War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Charts (4) (Direct to Comsubpac).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the SIXTH War Patrol of
this vessel conducted in the Hit Parade of Empire areas during
the period 24 June 1944 to 14 August 1944 is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: G. H. Browne]
G. H. BROWNE.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 85814]

— page 177 —
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: Report of SIXTH War Patrol.

2013 I
Surfaced. Due to change crews tonight, but believing
it to be vacant, decided to remain.

14 July
0416 I Submerged 15 miles from HURCTO ZAKI, closing coast.
1415 I Sighted float biplane. Many seaplanes sighted all day.
2022 I Surfaced.

15 July
0415 I Submerged 10 miles from HURCTO ZAKI closing coast.
Many seaplanes sighted during day.
0522 I Sighted trawler type patrol boat coming from direction
of HURCTO with 0 angle on bow. Avoided, but instead
of continuing on a routine patrol he commenced a
thorough search of the area in our immediate vicinity.
0806 I Sighted a second patrol boat coming from direction of
HURCTO ZAKI, 0 angle on bow. Came to within 300 yards
of us, stopped and commenced listening. Believing
the first patrol is in close company with patrol #1.
Avoided this one at deep submergence on a silent run-
ning, closing the coast to within 2 miles. This was
a most unusual search and led us to believe we had
been detected prior to diving. The search continued
all day.
2002 I Surfaced. SJ radar interference to seaward. Com-
menced heading for our own area 6. to intercept contact
reported.

16 July
1017 I Submerged.
1859 I Surfaced.
1909 I 5 separate SJ radar sweeps.
1909 I Radar contact 198° T., 7,500 yards. Exchanged calls
with CCBL via SJ. Commenced out from radar contact and
formed internal search line in company with other
submarines, covering western edge.
2036 I 8 contacts, so commenced retiring to southward.
2248 I

17 July
0445 I Submerged. Conducted submerged patrol during day,
surfacing at intervals for better look around.
1946 I Surfaced.

18 July
2200 I Surface patrol proceeding toward area 6. Submerged
for 2 SD and one sight contact on planes during day.
Entered area 6.

- 6 -

— page 182 —
U.S.S. STICK (SS279)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: Report of SIXTH War Patrol.
F. [UNCLEAR: STI] CTS.

Time | Lat. | Init.
No. Date | Long. | Type | Range | Course | Remarks
| | | (Yds.) | Speed | Contact |

1. 0015 Y | 20-18 N | SS 391 | 11,000 | 100°T. | R | Saw
   6/29/44 | 178-42 E | | 12 kn. | | radar
   | | | | | | swoop

2. 0128 Y | 20-24 N | SS282 | 10,600 | 180°T | R | Saw
   6/29/44 | 178-57 E | | 12 kn. | | radar
   | | | | | | swoop

3. 0904 | 20-45 N | USS [UNCLEAR: BULGER] | 14,000 | 095°T. | S |
   6/30/44 | 178-58 E | | 12 kn. | |

4. 2318 L | 32-58 N | 2 Jap trawler | 9,700 | 240°T. | P, S |
   7/5/44 | 133-14 E | type patrol | 5 kn. | |
   | | | boats | | |

5. 1218 I | 33-14 N | 2 small trawlers | 6000 | Var. | P | Patrol-
   7/9/44 | 135-18 E | 50-100 tons | | | | ling
   | | | | | | coast

6. 0535 I | 33-21 N | 1 small traw- | 4,500 | Var. | P | Patrol-
   7/10/44 | 135-14 E | ler, 50-100 | | | | ling
   | | | tons | | | | coast

7. 0857 I | 33-22 N | 1-6000 ton AK, | 11,000 | 120° T. | P | Smoke,
   7/10/44 | 135-16 E | 3-2500 ton AK, | 8 kn. | | firing
   | | | 1-1000 ton AK, | | | | inc.
   | | | 1 DD (SHIMKAZE | | | | Convoy
   | | | class), 1 small | | | | hugging
   | | | escort | | | | coast

8. 1031 I | 33-22 N | 1 CL (SENDAI | 11,000 | 300°T. | P | [UNCLEAR: Homing]
   7/10/44 | 135-17 E | class), 1DD | 18 kn. | | bound
   | | | (TERATSUKI class) | | | |

9. .... | 33-30 N | Typical sounds | ... | ... | P, S | Patrol-
   7/10/44 | 135-45 E | | | | | ling ?

10. 0735 I | 33-23 N | 1-3000 ton AK; | 10,000 | 120°T. | P |
    7/12/44 | 135-23 E | 1-2000 ton AK, | 8 kn. | |
    | | | 2 or 3 small | | | |
    | | | escorts | | | |

- 11 -

— page 183 —
U.S.S. S.COON (SS279)

CONFIDENTIAL
Report: Abstract of SLOW Patrol.
F. SUB CONTACTS (Continued).

| Time | Lt. | | Init. | | |
| C. No | Long. | Type | range | Course | Bow | Contact | Remarks
| | | | (yds.) | Speed | | |
11. 0820 I | 33-25 N | 1 AK (Similar | 2,600 | 305°T. | P | Attack
7/1/44 | 135-21 E | AZU. RU. | | 8 kn. | | #1,
| | 6,640 tons), | | | | Large AK
| | 500 ton schooner | | | | hit,
| | AK ?, PC type | | | | results
| | escort. | | | | unobserved.

12. ... | 33-20 N | numerous sampans | ... | ... | ... |
7/13/44 | 134-20 E | | | | |

13. ... | 33-08 N | 2 small patrol | 9,000 | Var. | P |
7/11/44 | 134-11 E | boats | | | |

14. 0632 I | 30-01 N | Saipan | ... | ... | P |
7/23/44 | 131-00 E | | | | |

15. 7/24/44 off BUNGO Typical sampans | ... | ... | P,S,R |
to 7/26/44 SUIDO | | | | |

16. 0325 I | 32-21 N | 2 small coastal | 16,000 | 020°T. | R | Attack
7/27/44 | 132-13 E | min's | | 7 kn. | | #2.

17. 0618 I | 32-22 N | 1 CV (Similar to | 14,000 | 280°T. | Snd, | Could
8/3/44 | 133-15 E | ZUIHO), 2 DD | | 19 kn. | ? | not
| | (TERUTSUKI class) | | | | | close

- 12 -

— page 189 —
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: Report of SIXTH War Patrol.
H. ATTACK DATA (Continued).

Attack No. 1

|             | 7       | 8       | 9       | 10      |
|:|:|:|:|:|
| TUBES FIRED |         |         |         |         |
| TRACK ANGLE | 94P     | 95P     | 96P     | 94P     |
| GYRO ANGLE  | 230     | 227     | 224     | 223     |
| DEPTH SET   | 6'      | 6'      | 6'      | 6'      |
| POWER       | Elec.   | Elec.   | Elec.   | Elec.   |
| HIT or MISS | Hit     | Miss    | Miss    | Miss    |
| ERRATIC     | No      | No      | No      | No      |
| MK. TORPEDO | 18-1    | 18-1    | 18-1    | 18-1    |
| SERIAL NO.  | 54913   | 55061   | 54547   | 55021   |
| MK. EXPLODER| ---     | ---     | ---     | ---     |
| SERIAL NO.  | ---     | ---     | ---     | ---     |
| ACTUATION SET| Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact |
| ACTUAL      | Contact | ---     | ---     | ---     |
| MK. WARHEAD | 18-1    | 18-1    | 18-1    | 18-1    |
| SERIAL NO.  | 1486    | 1799    | 1403    | 1499    |
| EXPLOSIVE   | TPX     | TPX     | TPX     | TPX     |
| FIRING INTERVAL| ---  | 10 sec. | 14 sec. | 6 sec.  |
| TYPE SPREAD | 7°L     | 3°L     | 3°R     | 7°R     |
| DIVERGENT   | light   | light   | light   | light   |
| SEA CONDITIONS| swell | swell   | swell   | swell   |
| OVERALL ACTIVITY| SMBPHTH| SMBPHTH| SMBPHTH| SMBPHTH|

- 18 -

— page 190 —
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: Report of SIXTH War Patrol.
H. ATTACK DATA (Continued).

— page 198 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: Report of SIXTH War Patrol.

U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

U. R.R.R. (Continued).

but that at speeds of 90 r.p.m. or over the vibrations set up
in the superstructure plating, bridge, and conning tower, were
sufficient to create a high noise level. It is felt that there
is room for improvement in the superstructure and rigging
design with regard to streamlining and stiffening to reduce
vibration noises.

A directional feature on the PR-1 would be highly desir-
able, even if it only indicated direction very broadly.

The eastern boundary of area 6 is located so close to
SHIONO MISAKI that a submarine operating submerged in this
vicinity finds it practically impossible to avoid being swept
into the adjacent area by the strong currents encountered.

V. MK. 18 TORPEDO REPORT.

Eight MK. 18-1 torpedoes were carried in the after Torpedo
Room on this patrol.

Routining Procedure: Torpedoes in tubes were ventilated
24 hours after charging, and every 48 hours thereafter. All
torpedoes were routined and charged once a week. Torpedoes
in tubes were charged partially withdrawn from tube (by use
of a light half-skid). Routining covered a two day period.
Starboard torpedoes one day and port torpedoes the next. The
torpedoes were charged simultaneously, i.e., #8 and #10 reload,
next #10 and #8 reload. Average drop in specific gravity over
the seven day period was 17 points, average time of charge was
4 hours, at 7 amp. rate. After 7 charges it was still unnecessary
to add water to the battery cells.

Conclusions: (1) The above routining procedure was found
to be very satisfactory in regards to least confusion of after
Torpedo Room during the routining period. Charging was car-
ried on both surfaced and submerged with no effect upon the
habitability of the compartment.

(2) No troubles were encountered with the charging or
hydrogen elimination circuits. Torpedo troubles were limited
to small grounds which appeared only after several weeks of
patrol and which were due to moisture condensation in battery
compartments of torpedoes kept in tubes. Only two grounds

- 27 -

— page 200 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION EIGHTY-ONE.
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
15 August 1944.

FB5-81/A16-3
Serial 030
CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
USS SNOOK (SS279)
Report of War Patrol No. 6.

From: The Commander Submarine Division Eighty-One.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Fleet.

Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHT.
      (2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet,
          Subordinate Command, Navy No. 104.
      (3) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
      (4) The Commander-in-Chief, PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of War Patrol
          Number 6.

1. The Sixth War Patrol of SNOOK, the first for the
Commanding Officer as such, comprised a period of 52 days of
which 30 were spent in assigned areas South of HONSHU and
SHIKOKU.

2. SNOOK covered the areas assiduously, working in
close to the prominent capes for submerged daylight patrols,
as well as covering the approaches to KII SUIDO and BUNGO
SUIDO for short periods. She was hampered by flat calm sea
conditions and by the strong currents adjacent to the coast
which varied materially in set and drift within small areas.
Generally at least 24 hours was required to interpret the
currents of a locality before the resultant direction of a
submerged daylight run could be predicted.

3. It was unfortunate that of the 6 convoys or
groups of ships contacted only 2 could be closed for attack.

(a) At 0903 on 10 July in the vicinity of SHIONO
MISAKI an approach was made on a convoy of 2 medium and
small freighters escorted by a [UNCLEAR: I-174] DD and another
small escort. The DD was the only ship which could be
closed and the attack on this ship was frustrated when the
DD put her stern to the SNOOK as she was about to fire.
During the approach a fleet type DD and a SENDAI CL were
sighted to the southwestward but too far away for an attack,
and they headed into KII SUIDO.

Subsequently SNOOK surfaced in the early after-
noon and chased the convoy to the northeastward but could
not regain contact.

-1-

— page 201 —
(b) At 0816 on 12 July SNOOK was 3000 yards south
of HILONO MISAKI light and close to the junction point of
two groups of ships. The first group approaching the cape
from the northwest comprised two 3000 ton AK's with a PC
type escort; the second group coming from the northeast
consisted of a 500 ton AK and an AZUMA MARU type AK.

Attack No. 1 A set up was made on the AZUMA
MARU as she was the best target. As SNOOK swung to fire
stern tubes an aircraft bomb exploded close aboard and the
escort turned toward SNOOK at 2000 yards range. Target
commenced swinging towards but this change was put into
the TDC and 4 Mark 18 torpedoes were fired at a range of
1000 yards, average track 95° port, average gyro 226°
spread 14°. As SNOOK went deep to receive 53 depth charges
one time hit was heard followed by cracking and breaking-
up noises. Other torpedoes missed astern because of the
spread used and estimated speed errors.

(c) As dawn was breaking on 27 July SNOOK made an
approach on two small 800 ton coastal freighters dimly seen
close to the coast south of BUNGO SUIDO.

Attack No. 2. With daylight rapidly approaching
and guided by desire to damage the enemy the Commanding
Officer fired six Mark 23 torpedoes set for 6 feet at a
range of 2700 yards. Torpedoes apparently passed underneath
target with two exploding at end of run. The target group
continued on toward the nearby entrance to BUNGO SUIDO.

(d) At 0615 on 3 August, about 40 miles southeast of
OKINO SHIMA and after planes had forced SNOOK to 150 feet,
screws were picked up on the sound gear and from periscope
depth the tops of a HO SHO class carrier and two MATSUKI
DD's were sighted at 14,000 yards with a 90° port angle on
the bow standing towards BUNGO SUIDO on a straight course
at 19 knots. No further opportunity for attack was offered
by these targets.

4. SNOOK arrived at Midway in very good material
condition and will be given a standard refit including dock-
ing.

5. The Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew are
congratulated on the damage inflicted on the enemy and it is
recommended that SNOOK be credited with the following:

DAMAGED

1 - Freighter (AZUMA MARU class) (EC) 6,600 tons
(Attack No. 1).

[HANDWRITTEN: (0.) J. Suits]
[HANDWRITTEN: W.J. SUITS.]

— page 202 —
FC5-S/A16-3
Serial: 097
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

COMMANDER SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHT
Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
15 August 1944.

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
USS SNOOK Report of
Sixth War Patrol.

From: Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHT.
To: Commander in Chief, U.S. FLEET.
Via: (1) Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET,
Subordinate Command, Navy No. 1504.
(2) Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS 279) - Report of Sixth War
Patrol, comments on.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the comments of
Commander Submarine Division EIGHTY-ONE.

2. The SNOOK encountered the obstacles generally
found in these areas in recent patrols, namely numerous patrol
craft, shore based and air-borne radar, lack of any worth-
while contacts at night, the tendency of shipping to hug the
coast, and strong surface and air escorts. Area coverage was
good and it is unfortunate that the two most worth-while con-
tacts, on 10 July and 3 August, could not be closed.

3. Except for the sound equipment, material
condition on return from patrol was very good. All defic-
iencies will be corrected by FULTON in a normal refit.

W. W. DOWNES.

— page 203 —
A16-3
Serial No. 0133
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

COMMANDER SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET,
SUBORDINATE COMMAND, NAVY NO. 1504.
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
16 August 1944.

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
USS SNOOK Report of
Sixth War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet,
Subordinate Command, Navy No. 1504.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(2) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Sixth War
Patrol - Comments on.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks contained
in the first and second endorsements.

[SIGNATURE: C. D. EDMUNDS]
C. D. EDMUNDS.

Copy to:
Comsubron 3
Comsubdiv 81
CO, USS SNOOK.

— page 204 —
[HANDWRITTEN: hoh]
[HANDWRITTEN: 502]
[HANDWRITTEN: Jw]

FF12-10/A16-3(15)/(16)
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
hch
Serial 01764
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
22 August 1944.
CONFIDENTIAL
[STAMP: AUG 22 1944]
FOURTH ENDORSEMENT to
SNOOK Report of
Sixth War Patrol.
NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 502.
U.S.S. SNOOK - SIXTH WAR PATROL.

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

Subject:
U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
(24 June to 14 August 1944).

1.
The sixth war patrol of the SNOOK was conducted in
areas south of Honshu and Shikoku. It was the first patrol for the
commanding officer as such.

2.
Excellent area coverage was maintained. A determined,
aggressive spirit, characteristic of the SNOOK prevailed throughout
this well conducted patrol. Heavy air and surface anti-submarine
measures were encountered and only two of the six sightings possibly
worthy of torpedo fire could be developed into attacks.

3.
This patrol is not designated as "Successful" for
Combat Insignia Award.

4.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratu-
lates the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for this aggressive
war patrol and for having inflicted the following damage upon the
enemy:
[HANDWRITTEN: (APKin narrative atts)]
[HANDWRITTEN: and other data]
D A M A G E D

1 - AK (AZUMA MARU Class)(EC) - 6,600 tons (Attack No. 1)

C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

Authentication and distribution
on following page.
- 1 -

— page 205 —
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
hch
FF12-10/A16-3(15)/(16)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
Serial 01764
22 August 1944.

CONFIDENTIAL

FOURTH ENDORSEMENT to
SNOOK Report of
Sixth War Patrol.
NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 502.
U.S.S. SNOOK - SIXTH WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.
(24 June to 14 August 1944).

— page 206 —
S279/A16-3/49
Serial 053
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

U.S.S. SNOOK
Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
18 November 1944

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 6510.1C
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 10/16/77]

From: The Commanding Officer;
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division 44
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
(3) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(4) The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SNOOK - Report of SEVENTH War Patrol.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track-Chart (Direct to Comsubspao).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the SEVENTH War Patrol
of this vessel conducted in Luzon Strait and the northern
part of the South China Sea, during the period 6 September
to 18 November, 1944, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: W.D. Browne]
G.H. BROWNE

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 97934]

— page 209 —
CONFIDENTIAL                                                U.S.S. SNOOK (SS279)

Subject: Report of SEVENTH War Patrol.