U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS-322) — war patrol report SS-322_BLACKFIN.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: F-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-994-78]
OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: HARRIS]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5-22-78]

1.0
1.1
1.25
1.4
1.6

2.8
3.15
3.5
4.0
4.5

2.5
2.2
2.0
1.8

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

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

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

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[HANDWRITTEN: BLACKFIN (SS-322)
WWII PATROL FILE

ALL MATERIAL ON THIS REEL IS DECLASSIFIED

FOR DECK LOG JULY 1944 - DECEMBER 1945
CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES WHICH HAS CUSTODY.

J.A. KOONTZ]

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Blackfin
Blackfin is a food fish of the Great Lakes.

(SS-322 dp. 1526; l. 311'9"; b. 27'3"; dr. 16'10"; s. 20.3
k.; cpl. 66; a. 15", 10 21" TT.; cl. Balao)

Blackfin (SS-322) was launched 12 March 1944 by
Electric Boat Co., Groton, Conn.; sponsored by Mrs.
Charles A. Lockwood, wife of Rear Admiral Lockwood;
and commissioned 4 July 1944, Lieutenant Commander
G. H. Laird, Jr., in command.
Blackfin arrived at Pearl Harbor 11 September 1944.
During her war operations (30 September 1944-5 Septem-
ber 1945) she completed five war patrols. Her operating
areas included the South China and the Yellow Seas.
Blackfin sank the Japanese destroyer Shigure, 24 January
1945, in 06°00' N., 103°48' E., and a cargo ship for a total
of 4325 tons.
The termination of hostilities occurred while Blackfin
was on her fifth war patrol. After occupying a lifeguard
station and destroying 61 floating mines, she retired to
Guam, arriving in Apra Harbor 5 September 1945. After
receiving voyage repairs and fuel she proceeded to San
Diego where she joined Submarine Squadron 1.
Through July 1948 Blackfin continued on active duty
in the Pacific. The majority of her operations were
conducted near the Hawaiian and Marianas Islands.
In June and July 1946 she participated in Operation Ice-
berg which took her across the Arctic Circle. She reported
to Mare Island for inactivation in July 1948 and was placed
out of commission in reserve there 10 November 1948.
In November 1950 Blackfin began conversion to a
Guppy submarine and was recommissioned 15 May 1951.
Since that time she has operated with Submarine Force,
Pacific Fleet, based at San Diego until 8 March 1954 and
thereafter at Pearl Harbor. During this time she com-
pleted two tours in the Far East (December 1951-June
1952 and January-June 1953); conducted local and
training operations; and has made several simulated war
patrols.
Blackfin received three battle stars for her World War
II service.

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Dictionary of
American Naval
Fighting Ships

VOLUME I . 1959
REPRINT WITH CORRECTIONS 1970

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY UNITED STATES OF AMERICA]

NAVY DEPARTMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS

NAVAL HISTORY DIVISION . WASHINGTON

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[HANDWRITTEN: 47 COPY]

SS322/A16 U. S. S. BLACKFIN (SS322)
Serial 021. Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, Calif.

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

4 December 1944

From : Commanding Officer, U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322)
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Submarine Division 262.
(2) Commander Submarine Squadron 26.
(3) Commander Task Force 71.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322), Report of War
Patrol number ONE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.

1.
Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol
of this vessel conducted in the South China Sea during the
period 30 September 1944 to 4 December 1944, is forwarded
herewith.

[SIGNATURE: G. H. LAIRD, Jr.]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: by OP-09B9C DATE 5/24/72]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 101625]
[UNCLEAR: 1 02...]

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

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
Number ONE.

(A) PROLOGUE

Arrived Pearl Harbor, T.H. 11 September 1944
from Balboa, C.Z. Had a three day
repair period during which time the APR-1 and
the APPSAX were installed. Completed twelve
days under way training and two days of loading.

(B) NARRATIVE

September 30.

1334(VW) Underway for Saipan, Marianas Islands.
1430(VW) Set clocks back to + 10 zone time.

October 1.

Enroute Saipan.

October 2.

0900(W) Enroute Saipan.
Set clocks back to + 11 zone time.

October 3.

1118(X) Enroute Saipan.
A176 04E Sighted red and yellow horizontal striped
L21 22.5N cylindrical can. Made approach and sank can
1300(X) with 20 MM gunfire.
Set clocks back 1 hour to + 12 zone time.

October 4.

0023(Y) Crossed international date line.

October 5.

Enroute Saipan.

October 6.

1700(M) Enroute Saipan.
Set clocks back 1 hour to -11 zone time.

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
Number ONE.

0511(H) Submerged.
1838(H) Surfaced.

October 31.

0144(H) Patrolling area at standard speed.
Set course 066° T at flank speed to head for
vicinity West Apo Pass.
0511(H) Submerged.
1843(H) Surfaced.

November 1.

0508(H) Patrolling western entrance of West Apo pass
at standard speed heading East and West.
0634(E) Submerged.
Sighted smoke on the horizon bearing 168.5° T
and headed for it at standard speed. Heard
pinging to southward.
0649(H) Went to Battle Stations Torpedo.
0708(H) Sighted single mast.
0715(H) Picked up target by sound at about 18000 yard
range. Sighted second mast on the target. Con-
tinued the approach and during the next three
quarters of an hour picked up two additional
sets of screws and masts of two or three addi-
tional ships.
0801(E) Sighted two escorts and three or four ships
together.
0806(H) Target group consisted of 4 small escorts (PC,
SC, or Trawler type) and one AP, or AK having
one stack, two stick masts with definite cross-
trees, composite superstructure with a high
navigation bridge, straight bow, deep well
deck and high poop. Three escorts stayed on
starboard side of target, the fourth taking
station on port beam or quarter. This port
screen looked definitely like an SC.
082150(I) Commenced firing six fish.
082241(H) Fired sixth torpedo.
082318(I) Heard three torpedo explosions which checked
to within 1 or 2 seconds of estimated torpedo
082340(H) run for the first three torpedoes. Started to
raise periscope to see damage but found we
had lost depth control slightly and were at
70 feet. Continued down to deep submergence

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
         Number ONE.

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
          Number ONE.

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November 0000-2400 Patrolling area at 2/3 speed.
0512(H) Submerged.
0611(H) Surfaced.
0613(H) Went ahead flank on course 225° T, to inter-
                    cept convoy reported early this morning.
0916(H) Submerged.
1828(H) Surfaced.

November 14.

0512(H) Patrolling area at 1/3 speed.
1825(H) Submerged.
                    Surfaced.

November 15.

0506(H) Patrolling area at 1/3 speed.
1824(H) Submerged.
1917(H) Surfaced.
                    Sighted reflection of searchlight on clouds
                    over Mindoro.

November 16.

0504(H) Patrolling area at 1/3 speed.
1833(H) Submerged.
                    Surfaced.

November 17.

0010(H) Patrolling area at standard speed.
                    Picked up APR-1 contact followed ten minutes
                    later by SJ contact on port bow at about
                    10,500 yards. Went to battle stations and
                    gave right full rudder. Next range on SJ
                    about 15 or 20 seconds later was 9,50

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322)- Report of War Patrol
Number ONE.

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
         Number ONE.

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
           Number ONE

CONTACT NUMBER | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8
|---|---|---|---
Date | Oct.14 | Oct.16 | Oct.18 | Oct.20
Time(zone) | 0825I | 1402I | 0927I | 0947I

S | Position:Lat. | 19 37N | 20 50N | 20 47N | 20 48N
U | Long. | 136 52E | 132 00E | 134 13E | 124 31E
B | Speed | 14.2 | 12.8 | 4.5 | 12.6
M | Course | 278T | 113T | 250T | 275T
A | Trim | SURF | SURF | SURF | SURF
R | Minutes since last |
I | SD Radar Search | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0
N | Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1
E | Type | PBY | 4 mot. | - | -

A | Probable Mission | Pat. | Pat. | - | -
I |
R | How Contacted | Sight | Sight | SD | SD
C | Initial Range | 10 mi. | 12 mi. | 8 mi. | 6 mi.
R | Elevation Angle | 5° | 15° | - | -
A | Range & Rel.Bearing | Not | - | - | -
F | of Plane when it | de- |
T | detected submarine. | tected | - | - | -

C | Sea | State | 1 | 3 | 1 | 1
O | Direction | 60 | 80 | 70 | 55
N | Visibility(miles) | Unlim. | Good | 10 | Ex.
D | Clouds (Ht.in feet | | 10000 | - | -
I | (% overcast | 30 | 40 | 50 | 50
T | (Bearing(Rel.) |
I | Moon(angle |
O | (Percent Illum. |
N |
S | Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Grey

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
         Number ONE.

CONTACT NUMBER           9         10        11        12

Date                     Oct.20    Nov.17    Nov.18    Nov.19

S Time(zone)             1213J     0010H     2118H     1019H
U
B Position:Lat.          20 45N    13 28N    13 33N    12 05N
M          Long.         123 49E   120 52E   119 43E   120 32E
A
R Speed                  10        14        5         2
I
N Course                 295T      085T      218T      157T
E
  Trim                   SURF      SURF      SURF      PER
  Minutes since last
  SD Radar Search        0

Number                   1         1         1         1
A Type
I
R Probable Mission
C How contacted          SD        SJ        sight     sight
R
A Initial Range          4 mi.     5 mi.     6 mi.     6 mi.
F
T Elevation Angle                                10°       1°
  Range & Rel.Bearing
  of Plane when it
  detected submarine

C Sea: State             1         0         1         1
O    Direction           50        35        65        70
N
D Visibility(miles)      Ex.       Ex.       Good      Good.
I Ht. in feet                                1000
T Clouds:% overcast      50        30        70        10
I Bearing
O Moon:Angle
N Percent Illum.
S

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Grey.

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War
Patrol Number ONE.

CONTACT NUMBER | 13 | 14 | 15
|----|----|----
Date | Nov.21 | Nov.22 | Nov.25
Time(zone) | 1605H | 0835H | 0925H
S Position:Lat. | 05 56N | 03 40N | 00 00
U Long. | 119 54E | 121 23E | 126 23E
B Speed | 15 | 15 | 12
M Course | 195T | 160T | 180T
A Trim | SURF | SURF | SURF
R Minutes since last | | |
I SD Radar Search | - | - | 1
N Number | 1 | 1 | 1
E Type | large | " | -
I Probable Mission | - | - | -
R How Contacted | sight | sight | sight
C Initial Range | 10 mi. | 12 mi. | 8 mi.
R Elevation Angle | 3° | 1° | 5°
A Range & Rel.Bearing | - | - | -
F of Plane when it de- | | |
T tected submarine. | | |
Sea:State | 1 | 1 | 1
C Direction | 330 | 340 | 230
O Visibility(miles) | Ex. | Good | Ex.
N Clouds:% | - | 8000 | Unlim.
D ft. in feet | overcast | - | -
I Moon:Angle | 20 | 70 | 10
T Percent Illum. | | |
I | | |
O | | |
N | | |
S Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Grey.

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`C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L`
`Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN(SS322) - Report of Her Patrol`
`_Number [HANDWRITTEN: O]NE_`

`timing of hits estimate that shots 1, 2,`
`3 and 6 hit.`

`| | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 |`
`|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|`
`| Tubes Fired | | | | | | |`
`| Track Angle | 76P | 79P | 79P | 70P | 70P | 70P |`
`| Gyro Angle | 347 | 344 | 344 | 353 | 353 | 353 |`
`| Depth Set | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' |`
`| Power | | | | | | |`
`| Hit or Miss | Hit | Hit | Hit | Miss | Miss | Hit |`
`| Erratic | No | No | No | No | No | No |`
`| Mark Torpedo | XVIII-1 | XVIII-1 | XVIII-1 | XVIII | XVIII | XVIII-1 |`
`| Serial No. | 55044 | 56902 | 55302 | 54741 | 56306 | 55174 |`
`| Mk.Exploder | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 |`
`| Serial No. | 9981 | 10576 | 10208 | 10592 | 10541 | 10461 |`
`| Actuation Set | contct | contct | contct | contct | contct | contct |`
`| Act.Actual | contct | contct | contct | none | none | contct |`
`| Mk.Warhead | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |`
`| Serial No. | 3392 | 3075 | 3660 | 3324 | 3499 | 3443 |`
`| Explosive | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex |`
`| Firing Intervl. | 10 sec | 10 sec | 10 sec | 10 sec | 10 sec | 10 sec |`
`| Type Spread | 1½° Divergent. | | | | | |`
`| Sea Conditions | Small Waves. | | | | | |`
`| Overhaul Activ. | PH,TH | PH,TH | PH,TH | PH,TH | PH,TH | PH,TH |`
`| Remarks | | | | | | |`

`- 23 -`
`ENCLOSURE (A)`

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
- - - - - Number ONE. - - - - -
U.S.S. BLACKFIN TORPEDO ATTACK NO. TWO PATROL NO. ONE
Time: 1013H Date: 7 November 1944. Lat. 11 19N
Long. 118 26E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description Single tanker escorted by one destroyer
and two vessels that looked like a cross
between a DD and a PC. Sighted target
through the periscope. Visibility was
good.

Ship(s) Sunk None.
Ship Damaged One large AO.
Damage Determin- Heard one timed torpedo hit.
ed by

Target Draft 25' Course 040°T Speed 14.5 Range 2200 yds.

Own Ship Data

Speed 2 Course 330°T Depth 65' Angle 0°

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack Picked up masts of target by periscope
from 55'. Estimated range 18,000 to 20,
000 yards. Came to normal approach
course and conducted approach according
to doctrine. Arrived at firing point
with 2200 yard torpedo run, gyro angles
1 to 14 left, track angles 96 to 109
starboard. Took final bearing and commen-
ced firing, using spread to cover a
3 knot speed error of NOT. Shortly be-
fore firing were using 12 knot target
speed, when sound reported target speed-
ed up. TDC operator, on strength of
sound report and also last minute range
analysis, cranked speed up to 14.5 knots.
It is believed on hindsight that 12
knots would have resulted in more hits.
From timing of single hit it is estimated
that the fifth shot hit.

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN(SS322) - Report of War Patrol
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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN(SS322) - Report of War Patrol
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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN(SS322) - Report of War Patrol
          Number ONE.

Lat. 10° 23'N         Long. 117° 51'E
True Bearing 103°     Signal Strength E2

Weather conditions   Overcast sky. Cumulus and Alto
                     Cumulus clouds. Calm sea and low
                     swells from the northeast. Light
                     wind from the northeast. Visibil-
                     ity good - 9 miles.

On the 26th of October ship contact at a range of 23,600
yards.
Lat. 11° 14N Long. 118° 35E Sig. Strength E1

Weather conditions   Partly cloudy sky. Calm sea and
                     low swells from northeast. Good
                     visibility - 8 mi. Visual con-
                     tact, large target at 19,000 yds.
                     Distant lightning flashes from
                     northward.

Radar interference was encountered at this time. It ap-
peared to be 10 cm. Radar of a longer pulse length than
the SJ-1. Tried to pick up the Radar interference on the
APR-5-X with no success. Magnatron used was Western
Electric C38687.

On November 3 contact with large hospital ship. Ship
was sighted long before Radar contact was made at
16,000 yds.
Lat. 11° 52'N         Long. 118° 09'E
Signal strength at 16,000 yards E1
Signal strength at 10,000 yards E5

Weather conditions   Clear, few clouds, temperat re 85°.

On November 16 had 2 types of Radar interference at Lat.
13°N, Long. 119°E. The first appeared to be another SJ-1
Radar. The second type of interference encountered on
this date was of longer pulse length than the SJ-1 Radar.
The pulse pattern looked like that shown in the following
sketch. Magnatron used was Western Electric C35303.

The APR-5-X failed to pick up either of these Radars.
                     As seen on the 20,000 yd. scale.

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN(SS322) - Report of War Patrol
          Number ONE.

On November 23 had plane contact at 14,800 yards. Signal
strength at 14,800 was E2, at 9,000 yards E5. Plane was
sighted later and also picked up on SD Radar. Plane an-
swered IFF challenge as friendly.

SD-4 Radar and I.F.F.

This equipment when operated was very good. The gear was
operated intermittently in going to and from the patrol
area. At all times in the area it was in a standby con-
dition, to be operated on APR-1 contacts. The SD-4 picked
up planes at a range of 45 mi. I.F.F. challenge and reply
was made at this range and greater.

APR 5AX

This unit was an experimental installation made at Pearl
Harbor. The only contact made in our patrol area with
this gear was on October 21 at Lat.20° N, Long.119° 53' E
at a frequency of 3030 mc. This contact proved to be a
friendly submarine. All other contacts made with this
equipment were made on leaving Pearl Harbor and Saipan.
The frequency range of this equipment as installed is
from 2200 to 3,100 megacycles. The contacts in all cases
were 10 cm. Radar. The big disadvantage in using the
APR 5AX as installed on this ship is the fact that the SJ
Radar must be secured and the SJ antenna used for the
APR 5AX. If the APR 5AX had a separate antenna it would
be used to greater advantage. Also if it was installed
near the APR-1 the pulse analyser could be used for both
APR units.

APR-1

The operation of this equipment was good. The major
trouble was it would pick up everything from electric
fans to our own Radar. In a number of instances we
picked up our own SJ-1 Radar at 590 megacycles. Also in
a number of cases at 925 megacycles. The APR-1 contacts
were as follows:

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Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War
Patrol Number ONE.

| DATE | LOCATION | FREQ. | PULSE RATE | ANTENNA ROTATION | PULSE LENGTH |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | LAT.N | LONG.E | | | |
| 10/20 | 20 38 | 125 50 | 140 | 1500 | Rotating | 12.5 |
| 10/21 | 20 21 | 120 32 | 147 | 1500 | Rotating | 12.5 |
| 11/4 | 12 19 | 115 25 | 100 | 300 | None | 22.5 |
| 11/17 | 13 31 | 118 36 | 515 | 225 | None | 5 |
| 11/23 | 2 30 | 127 42 | 172 | 40 | None | 62.5 |
| 11/23 | 2 30 | 126 45 | 175 | 260 | None | 5 |

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Good results were obtained with the sonic
sound gear (JP-2) during the attack on the unidentified
"AK" at which time the operator was able to pick up high
speed screws at approximately 13,000 yards. This was
when our own ship was running with all normal auxiliaries
secured. During normal cruising the operators reported
difficulty in picking up sounds due to the noise of the
various motors and pumps in the boat. During our first
attack the JP-2 sound gear was able to pick up screws
before the super-sonic gear.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS

From the start of the patrol until 22 Oct.
all dives were 125 feet or less and none showed a temper-
ature gradient. However, from 22 Oct. to 18 Nov. inclu-
sive, daily 300 foot dives were made for bathythermograph
observations, which did show a temperature gradient.
They were made between the western approaches of Verde
Island Passage and the middle of Palawan Passage with
the majority in the northern part of Palawan Passage.
During this period the wind was either from the north-
east or from the southwest, and averaged 10 knots or
less. Air temperatures during the hours of darkness
averaged about 85° F. Water temperatures at the surface
varied from 82° F. to 85° F. The sea varied from
glassy calm to a force one sea. Except for a few days
it was partly cloudy with occasional rain squalls.

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Subject: U.S.S.BLACKFIN(SS322) - Report of War Patrol
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Subject: U.S.S.BLACKFIN(SS322) - Report of War Patrol
          Number ONE.
and it is expected that the majority of them will quali-
fy before the end of the second patrol.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED
Pearl Harbor to Saipan 3563 mi. 66,401 gals.
Saipan to Area 2821 mi. 31,935 gals.
In Area 4549 mi. 43,375 gals.
Area to Darwin 2483 mi. 32,642 gals.
Darwin to Perth 1928 mi. 34,040 gals.

(S) DURATION
Days enroute to area 22
Days in area 28
Days enroute to base 16
Days submerged 30

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING
Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel Factor
Number Gals. Days Days
13 7500 (Darwin) 15 5

(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES
No radar jamming or countermeasures
were encountered. The only instance of radio
jamming occurred between 1120 and 1140 GCT, 23
Oct. 1944 when CW jamming was experienced on 4370
kcs. (Details on C & D Form 5.)

(V) REMARKS
None.

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FC5-26/A16-3
Serial (019)

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
USS BLACKFIN (SS322)
Report on First War
Patrol

CONFIDENTIAL

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-SIX.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine SEVENTH FLEET.
(2) The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322), Report of War Patrol Number One.

1. The first war patrol of U.S.S. BLACKFIN covered a period of
65 days, thirty five of which were spent under operational control of Com-
mander Task Force 71 north of the Malay Barrier. The patrol was commenced
from Pearl Harbor and terminated at Fremantle, W.A.

2. The general area patrolled was the PALAWAN PASSAGE. It is
considered that the area could have been more effectively covered had BLACKFIN
remained on the surface during daylight. The Commanding Officer's decision
to patrol submerged was undoubtedly affected by unfamiliarity with the area
and lack of information concerning enemy countermeasures to be expected. His
estimate of the situation and decision which resulted in intercepting a
heavily escorted AK off Mindoro Strait on 1 November was commendable.

3. Four contacts on enemy vessels and one probable periscope con-
tact, were made. One of these proved to be a properly lighted and marked
hospital ship. Two contacts were developed into successful attacks resulting
in sinking a medium AK and damaging a large AO. Attack on the third contact
was frustrated when BLACKFIN was detected by an escort, possibly by radar.
Eleven torpedoes were fired for a total of 5 hits. In addition BLACKFIN per-
formed a hazardous special mission, the results of which were a considerable
contribution to the war effort.

ATTACK NO. 1. After a submerged periscope approach on a medium AK
(escorted by 4 small vessels) 6 torpedoes were fired from a range of 1500
yards resulting in 4 timed hits. RAY observed target sinking. There is a
possibility that one of the torpedoes hit one of the escorts since only
three were heard during the ensuing counterattack during which 45 depth
charges were dropped.

ATTACK NO. 2. After a submerged periscope approach on a large AO
(escorted by 2 DD and 1 small DE, 5 torpedoes were fired from a range of 2200
yards. Probably because the target's speed was over estimated only one hit
resulted which did not slow the target. In a counterattack 12 depth charges
were dropped with no damage sustained.

- 1 -
1 027

SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY-SIX
Py
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
8 December 1944.

— page 39 —
FCS-26/A16-3
Serial ( 019 )
CONFIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
USS BLACKFIN (SS322)
Report on First War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322), Report of War Patrol Number One.

— page 40 —
FE24-71/A16-3

Serial 01602

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

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLACKFIN Conf. Ltr.
A16 Serial 021 dated
4 December 1944. Report
of First War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
To: The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: The Commander, SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of First War
Patrol - Comment on.

1. BLACKFIN's First War Patrol was conducted in the
SOUTH CHINA SEA, principally in the north end of PALAWAN PASSAGE.

2. Two torpedo attacks were made. On the first
approach an excellent attack position was reached on a medium AK
in spite of the four escorts. Four hits from six torpedoes sank
this valuable ship.

3. The second attack was made on a large tanker
accompanied by one destroyer and two smaller escort types. Only
one hit was made from the five torpedoes, probably due to an error
in the estimate of target speed.

4. A special mission of great importance to the Allied
War Strategy was accomplished after leaving the area.

5. The award of the Submarine Combat Insignia is
authorized for this patrol.

6. The Force Commander congratulates BLACKFIN's
Commanding Officer, Officers and Crew on this successful and
well conducted first war patrol, in which an important and
hazardous special mission was successfully performed, and the
following damage inflicted upon the enemy:

SUNK
1 - AK (Medium - EU) 4,000 Tons (Attack No. 1)

DAMAGED
1 - AO (Large - EU) 10,000 Tons (Attack No. 2)
Grand Total 14,000 Tons [STAMP: 1 027---]

- 1 - UNITED STATES NAVY

12a/pr

28 December 1944.

R. W. CHRISTIE.

— page 41 —
FE24-71/A16-3
Serial 0160
CONFIDENTIAL

SECOND INDORSEMENT to:
USS BLACKFIN Conf. Ltr.
A16 Serial 021 dated
4 December 1944. Report
of First War Patrol.

Subject:

— page 42 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 495]
UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET
1 027

A16-3(2)(C)(F-3/cgj)
Serial: 0218
[STAMP: 10 JAN 1945]
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLACKFIN conf ltr
A16 serial 021 dated
4 December 1944.

From: Commander Seventh Fleet.
To : Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - report of first
war patrol - comment on.

1. Forwarded.

2. The successful completion of a special
mission is noted. This special mission is of tremendous
importance to the United States and the skill and courage
attendant to its conclusion are very gratifying.

3. The Commander Seventh Fleet extends a
cordial "well done" to the Commanding Officer, Officers,
and Crew of the U.S.S. BLACKFIN on this patrol and the
damage inflicted on the Japanese.

[SIGNATURE: C. E. Van Hook]
C. E. VAN HOOK,
Deputy.

Copy to:
ComSubs7thFlt
ComSubRon-26
CO, USS BLACKFIN (SS322)

1 027

— page 43 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

SS322/A16
Serial 01-45.

U. S. S. BLACKFIN (SS322)
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, Calif.

15 January 1945

DECLASSIFIED (Submarine Patrol Report Form)

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. BLACKFIN(SS322)
To : Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Two.

Enclosures: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track charts Nos.1-4. (For CTF 71)
(C) Plot of torpedo attacks(For CTF 71)

1. Enclosures (A), (B), and (C) covering the
second war patrol of this vessel conducted in South
China Sea during the period 2 January 1945 to 15 February
1945 is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: Wm. L. KITCH]
Wm. L. KITCH

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-NHT. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP-09B9C DATE 5/24/22]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 113386]

— page 48 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Two.

15 JAN.
0940(H) Plane contact on SD radar 26 miles. Closed to
14 miles. Submerged. Aircraft contact 76.
1109(H) Surfaced.
1125(H) Plane contact on SD radar 17 miles. Aircraft
contact #7. Closed to 8 miles. Submerged.
1245(H) Surfaced. Received word HARDHEAD had been
attacked by plane.
1518(H) Sighted BESUGO bearing 320° T, 8 miles away.
1930(H) And continuing through the night - SJ inter-
ference from the BESUGO to the Northeast.

16 JAN.
2000(H) BESUGO and HARDHEAD moved further to Northeast.
Received message from GURNARD to patrol latitude
5°15'N, longitude 103° 30'E.

17 JAN.
Patrolling on surface in assigned position along
20 fathom curve.
0300(H) APR contact. Looks like Jap aircraft radar. No
SD contact. Secured SJ manning it intermittently
0400(H) Lost APR contact.
2145(H) Have SJ interference from GURNARD bearing 140°T.

18 JAN.
Patrolling assigned position along 20 fathom
curve.
1937(H) Passed what appeared to be a floating mine,
latitude 5° 17'N, longitude 103° 17'E, longi-
tude 103° 27'E. Mine quickly passed out of
sight; we could not see to destroy it.
2000(H) Told GURNARD, BESUGO, and HARDHEAD of mine and
requested permission of GURNARD to shift patrol
position to latitude 5° 45'N, longitude 103°
20'E, which was granted.

19 JAN.
Patrolling on surface 12 miles East of Pulau
Yu, Besar in 29 fathoms of water.

20 JAN.
Patrolling area on surface.

21 JAN.
[UNCLEAR: BESUGO and HARDHEAD moved further to Northeast.]
1125(H) Plane contact on SD radar 20 miles. Aircraft
contact #8. Closed to 10 miles. Submerged.
1302(H) Surfaced.

[HANDWRITTEN: -5-]
[UNCLEAR: 0300(H) APR contact. Looks like Jap aircraft radar. No]
[UNCLEAR: 0400(H) SD contact. Secured SJ manning it intermittently ENCLOSURE (A)]
[UNCLEAR: 2145(H) Have SJ interference from GURNARD bearing 140°T.]
[UNCLEAR: Patrolling assigned position along 20 fathom]
[UNCLEAR: curve.]
[UNCLEAR: Passed what appeared to be a floating mine,]

— page 66 —
The text from the image has been transcribed below, distinguishing between typed and handwritten text, and preserving formatting as requested.

CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Two.

— page 70 —
(C)(M)(N) 11-1-44 - 1-31-45 is ort ci W. trol umber C.

(L) RADIO.

Reception while enroute to station, while on station
and when returning to base was good. During the day the high
frequencies were used and during the night the low frequencies
were used. Most of the time the receivers were set on either
12630 Kcs. or 9250 kcs., these two frequencies being the best
of the SOMESPAC frequencies.

One CTF-71 serial was missed although no BAKER serial
was missed during the same period. A recheck of all calls showed
that BAKER #464, and #474 were the same message. It was about
this time that the serial was missed. This was during the period
of January 18-20.

(M) RADAR.

SJ RADAR
The operation of the SJ radar on this patrol was at
its usual high standard. Some of the more important operating
data is given as follows:

4 Jan. While entering Exmouth Gulf had SJ radar interference
from U.S.S. BECUNA. Exchanged recognition signals without
tuning to the interference frequency. It was later
learned that the BECUNA was approximately 200 miles away
at the time of this contact.

. The great range obtained here was probably due to unusual
atmospheric conditions.

15 Jan. Had contact with another U.S. submarine at range of
16,800 yards.

24 Jan. Had contact on large AO at 24,000 yards. Later had SJ
contact on a DD at approximately 20,000 yards. Picked
up DE type escorts at 16,000 yards.

10 Feb. Contact at 78 miles on 13,000 foot peak on northern tip
of Borneo. This was a second sweep reflection.

12 Feb. Contact on two Jap BB's at range of 25,000 yards. Lost
contact at 32,000 yards.

Throughout the patrol we had an unusual amount of trouble
with 721-A gas discharge T.R. tubes. A complete record of the
operating data on all the 721-A tubes used will be found in another
part of this report.

- 27 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 72 —
This appears to be a page from a WWII submarine patrol report, specifically a technical or engineering section, likely discussing radar performance or similar equipment.

Here's the transcription, distinguishing between typed and handwritten text, preserving formatting, and noting unclear sections:

[UNCLEAR: GRED] [UNCLEAR: 114] [UNCLEAR: U.] [UNCLEAR: T. O] [UNCLEAR: TION], [UNCLEAR: S]ort of [UNCLEAR: P]atrol [UNCLEAR: U]nder
[UNCLEAR: Two.]

— page 76 —
The provided image is a page from a WWII submarine patrol report. I will transcribe the text, distinguishing between typed and handwritten elements.

Here's the transcription:

CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Two.

— page 77 —
T05-12/A16-3
Serial 032

CONFIDENTIAL
ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. BLACKFIN Report
of Second War Patrol.

From:
To:
Via:

Subject:

1. BLACKFIN's second war patrol was of 46 days
duration, 36 of which were spent in the assigned area in
the South China Sea. Lieutenant Commander W.L. Kitch, U.S.
Navy, was in command and it was his first war patrol as such.

2. Three attacks were made on a convoy consisting
of one large tanker which had four escorts, one of which was
a SHIMO class destroyer (DD). A total of eight torpedoes were
fired. Two other contacts were made; two of these were on
small escort type vessels which were not attacked, while the
third one was on a tanker with one escort that BLACKFIN could
not close because she was forced down by a plane. The fourth
contact was a Task Force of two BBs, one CA, and three DDs and
BLACKFIN was unable to close contacts four and five but sent out
two valuable contact reports.

(a) Attack No. 1: The convoy was picked up by SJ
radar at 0502, range 20,000 yards, and the
first attack was made about an hour later on the
surface firing three torpedoes at the tanker,
range 1600 yards, for one timed hit. The
target could not be seen at time of hitting
because it was obscured by smoke from second
attack.

(b) Attack No. 2: This attack was made on the SHIMO
class DD immediately after firing torpedoes on
the first hit; the DD which had been on the port
quarter of the tanker was in position ahead of
BLACKFIN, range 800 yards. Two torpedoes were
fired at the destroyer at a range of about 500
yards for one observed hit between bridge and
stack. It was the smoke resulting from this hit
that completely enveloped the destroyer and blocked
the visibility of the tanker for observation of the
timed hit on the tanker in the first attack. A few
minutes later smoke cleared and the DD was missing;
tanker was again visible and BLACKFIN maneuvered
for a third attack.

[STAMP: FILMED]
- 1 -
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
18 February 1945.

The Commander Submarine Squadron TWELVE.
The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
(1) The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
(2) The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of
Second War Patrol.

[HANDWRITTEN: 35]

— page 78 —
F05-12/A16-3
Serial 032

SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWELVE

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
18 February 1945.

CONFIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. BLACKFIN Report
of Second War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report
of Second War Patrol.

(c) Attack No. 3: This attack followed the second
one by a few minutes and was also made on the
surface. Three torpedoes were fired at the
tanker, range 3000 yards, and one hit was
observed. BLACKFIN cleared area after
the remaining escorts commenced a gun attack
on her. BLACKFIN did not attempt another attack
on the tanker, which did not sink but was plotted
as stopped, because the BELUGO, who was in the
same area, reported diving for an attack on the
tanker.

3. The BLACKFIN returned from patrol in excellent
material condition. The lack of mechanical and
electrical difficulty was largely the result of care in operating
routine as evidenced by the condition of machinery
at the end of this patrol. A normal refit will be accomplished
by the BLACKFIN and Relief Crew 122.

4. The Commander Submarine Squadron TWELVE takes
pleasure in welcoming the BLACKFIN into Subic Bay and con-
gratulating the Captain, Officers, and Crew for the damage
inflicted on the enemy in a fine and aggressive patrol.

[SIGNATURE: C. H. Wilkins]
C. H. WILKINS.

[HANDWRITTEN: 36]

— page 79 —
FE24-71/16-3
UNITED STATES NAVY
Serial 0557
20 March 1945
14/lh
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
COMSUBPAC Conf. Ltr. 116
Serial 01-45, dated 15
January 1945. Report of
Second War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
To : The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via : The Commander, SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Second War
Patrol - Comment on.

1. The Second War Patrol of the BLACKFIN was the
first under her present Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Com-
mander J. L. HITCH, U.S.N. The entire patrol was conducted in
the area west of Luzon and from 14 January to 2 February she was
a member of the OTCCO (OTC), [UNCLEAR: TPD] Group. The
remainder of the patrol was spent in the area west of LUZON
STRAIT.

2. On 24 January, the BLACKFIN executed a most in-
teresting and skillful attack. The approach was made on a large
tanker escorted by three DD. Three bow tubes were fired at the
tanker on a range of 1,500 yards, angle on the bow 120° port,
and one hit was made. At this time one DD was within 800 yards
but could obviously be underfoot when time came to stern tube
fire. Therefore, BLACKFIN fired two torpedoes at the DD, one
of which hit and blew it up. It was now clear for the stern
tubes to fire, and the result was a second hit in the target.
BLACKFIN retired at high speed on the surface under gunfire from
one of the remaining DD.

3. Valuable reconnaissance duty was performed in con-
nection with U.S. re-occupation of the PHILIPPINES from
3 to 13 February.

4. The award of the Submarine Combat Insignia is
authorized for this patrol.

5. The Force Commander congratulates the Commanding
Officer, Officers and Crew of the BLACKFIN on this well conducted
and aggressive patrol during which the following damage was in-
flicted upon the enemy:

- 1 -

— page 80 —
F224-71/L16-3
UNITED STATES NAVY
14/lh

Serial 0557
20 March 1945
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLACKFIN Conf. Ltr. 418
Serial 01-45, dated 15 January
1945. Report of Second War
Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Second War
Patrol - Comment on.

— page 81 —
[HANDWRITTEN: WA P.M. 11]
[HANDWRITTEN: 365]
[HANDWRITTEN: =4]
[HANDWRITTEN: 4 03:85]

UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET

A16-3(S)(F-3-4/bc)
Serial: [HANDWRITTEN: 01568]

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLACKFIN Conf. ltr. A16
Serial 01-45, dated 15
January 1945. Report of
Second War Patrol.

[STAMP: 17 APR 1945]

From: Commander Seventh Fleet.
To : Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of
Second War Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

2. The Commander Seventh Fleet congratulates the
BLACKFIN for the damage inflicted on the enemy.

[SIGNATURE: T. C. Kinkaid]
T. C. KINKAID

cc:
ComSubs7thFlt
ComSubRon 12
USS BLACKFIN (SS322)

— page 82 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

SS322/A16
Ser.09-43.

U. S. S. BLACKFIN (SS322)
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, Calif.

9 March 1945.

DECLASSIFIED (Submarine Patrol Report)

From : Commanding Officer, U.S.S. BLACKFIN.
To : Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Charts.(for ComSubs7thFlt)

1. Enclosure (A) covering the third war
patrol of this vessel conducted in South China Sea
during the period 6 March 1945 to 9 April 1945 is
forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: illegible]
Wm. L. KITCH

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP09BPC] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/24/72]

DECLASSIFIED

[HANDWRITTEN: 124026]

— page 84 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

9 March
0134(H) Exchanged recognition signals by SJ radar with
U.S.S. BERGALL.
0617(H) Submerged for patrol off Cape Varella.
0820(H) Sighted B-25, bearing 130° T, headed North
(aircraft contact #4).
1016(H) Sighted B-25, bearing 300° T, headed South
(aircraft contact #5, probably same as #4.
1647(H) Sound picked up echo ranging bearing 340°T.
1705(H) Sighted two sub chaser type patrol boats,
bearing 327° T, range about 6,000 yards,
course South. Watched and tracked targets;
they were making 10 knots and not on escort
duty. Let them pass.
1926(H) Surfaced.

10 March
0833(H) Sighted U.S.S. FLASHER and gave them what infor-
mation I could about the pack.

11 March
1325(H) Sighted smoke on horizon, bearing 088° T,
course 010 (ship contact #1). Opened out
to Northwest and began to work ahead. Plotted
his speed as 14 knots.
1340(H) Sent out contact report (receipted for by
HAWKBILL immediately and by BLUEBACK 10 minutes
later).
1405(H) Received message from HAWKBILL that our contact
was a hospital ship. Sounded logical, for tar-
get was unescorted, on a steady course, and
smoking heavily.
1408(H) Changed course to Eastward to close target and
satisfy myself that he was a hospital ship.
Identified as AH-18, URAL MARU.
1425(H) Sighted a small, unidentified plane near tar-
get, coming in (aircraft contact #6). Submerged.
1515(H) Surfaced and headed for pack patrol position.
1645(H) Sent message to BLUEBACK telling of our action.
Sighted BLUEBACK bearing 225° T, and headed
toward her for exchange of information.

- 2 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 85 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

1750(H) Completed rendezvous and headed back for assigned
2350(H) patrol station.
2359(E) Sighted flashes and rockets bearing 0600 T.
Heard first of several explosions.

12 March

0010(H) Heard last explosion. They sounded like depth
charges.
0045(H) SJ contact, 2 small pips, bearing 0670 T, range
11,500 yards. Commenced tracking and determined
their course was 200° T, speed 13 knots.
0051(H) Received message from FLASHER. She had contacted
same hunter-killer group at BLUEBACK's approxi-
mate position.
0100(H) Sent out contact report. Began to work around
to Northwest to remain clear of A/S patrol.
0117(E) Lost radar contact with enemy bearing 150° T,
range 16,000 yards.
0615(H) Submerged.
1557(E) Surfaced.

13 March

2300(H) Held rendezvous with U.S.S. BLUEBACK and received
mail brought up by U.S.S. SEAROBIN.

14 March

0606(H) Submerged for patrol 2 miles off Cape Varella.
Sighted total of about 70 sailboats during the
day. All on Southerly course and in close to
the beach.
1931(H) Surfaced.

15 March - 16 March

Patrolling assigned stations on surface.

17 March

0615(H) Submerged for patrol off Cape Varella. Sighted
numerous sailboats all on Southerly course and
all in close to the beach.
1940(H) Surfaced.

- 3 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 88 —
## The Blackfin's Journey: A WWII Submarine's War Patrol Report

This document, "CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol Number Three," provides a fascinating glimpse into the operational details of a World War II submarine. Specifically, it's "Page 5a" and an "ENCLOSURE (A)," likely a map or diagram illustrating a particular "SITUATION AT 1023(H)" (10:23 AM).

The diagram depicts a coastal area, possibly a bay or harbor, with several key elements:

*   **Landmass:** A prominent, irregular line represents the coastline or a large island.
*   **U.S.S. BLACKFIN:** The submarine itself is marked, indicating its position relative to the other elements.
*   **Target:** A distinct symbol, possibly a diamond or a stylized ship, is labeled "TARGET." This suggests the Blackfin was engaged in or observing an attack.
*   **Escorts:** Several vessels are identified as escorts:
    *   "INSHORE ESCORT": Positioned closer to the coastline.
    *   "LEADIA ESCORT": Located further out, possibly leading a convoy or patrol.
    *   "OUTBOARD ESCORTS": Multiple vessels positioned even further from the coast, likely providing outer perimeter protection.
*   **HONTRAUNAM:** This label appears near a circular shape, possibly indicating a specific location, a town, or a geographic feature.
*   **Scale:** A scale bar

— page 89 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol Number Three.

1025(H) ceived above and on the starboard hand. This greatly assisted
our descent. The bow planes jammed on 8 degrees dive, lost
power on the stern planes, numerous lights broke, gauge faces
popped off, air leaks made a great deal of noise, and a report
came from forward torpedo room that water was coming in. The
boat was pushed down in the mud at 156 feet.
All stop. Began survey and correction of damage.
The outer doors on three tubes forward were open part way
and could not be closed. Three torpedoes forward and one aft
had hot runs.
The hydrogen burner rubber sockets were dislodged from tubes
two and five and because the outer doors of these tubes were
partially open, water was coming into the boat until wooden
depth charge plugs were inserted. This would have been serious
at greater depth. (For further details, see Sec. (K) MAJOR
DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.)
Both sound heads were knocked off when we hit bottom. The
heads were being rigged in when this occurred.
The main and auxiliary compasses were out of commission.
Mercury had spilled out of the bowls.
The SJ was out of commission.
The after battery hatch trunk and the forward escape trunk
were partially flooded.
Fifty-six light bulbs and three-fourths of the lights
on TP-TR indicator board were knocked out.
Innumerable valves throughout the boat cracked open and
many air leaks developed.
TBTs, bridge 7MC, bridge diving alarm, and searchlight
were out.
Lost all radio antennae.
Collected bucket of miscellaneous bolts from deck through-
out boat.
Numerous air leaks necessitated shut down of service air
systems with the result that this system filled with salt
water, which in turn contaminated the battery water system.
Smashed bridge pelorus. Chipped prism in #2 periscope
and jarred both out of collimation.

ENCLOSURE (A)
- 6 -

— page 92 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

(C) WEATHER

     No unusual weather was encountered. Weather was
generally moderate.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

     Current in the vicinity of Cape Varella was
between 2.5 and 3.0 knots South. The strength of the
current decreased with the distance from the shore line
becoming zero about thirty-five miles off shore.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

     Cape Varella Light was observed during the day
but not during the night.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS

No.Time   Date      Lat.      Long.     Type Initial Course Est. How      Remarks
                                                Range Speed      ted.
1  1325   11 Mar    13-10N    110-17E   AP   20000 010°T SD       Hospital
                                                yds.  14 kts.    Ship

2  0850   28 Mar    12-37N    109-28E   2 AK 14000 030°T Sound
                                        8 es- yds.  8 kts.  (JK)
                                        corts

3  0245   4 Apr     5-50S     114-15E   SM(?) 7000             SD
                                                yds.

4  1429   4 Apr     7-10S     116-20E   SM(?) 7000             SD
                                                yds.

NOTE: Vast numbers of small sailing vessels were seen
about two miles off Cape Varella; these sailboats were
observed on every occasion that Cape Varella was our
patrol station, and their course was invariably South.

- 9 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 93 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

No. Date Time Lat Long Type Initial Est. How Remarks
                                        Range Course Contacted
                                              Speed
1 0852 14-36N 14 R
  7 Mar 113-50E (SD)

2 0909 14-35N 7 SD Probably
  7 Mar 113-55E same As #1.

3 1825 13-40N 10 R
  7 Mar 112-20E (SD)

4 0820 12-50N 13-24 5 000 P
  9 Mar 109-39E

5 1016 12-30N B-24 5 180 P Probably same
  9 Mar 109-35E as #4.

6 1425 13-05N small 4 SD
  11 Mar 110-08E

7 0010 12-38N PB2Y 4 090 P Attacking ship
  28 Mar 109-35E contact #4.

NOTE: During patrol on station we had innumerable plane
contacts with our own aircraft.

(H) ATTACK DATA
None.

(I) MINES

Date Location Remarks

22 March Lat.12-45N Exploded with 20 mm.
         Long.109-55E

24 March Lat.13-18N Sunk with 20 mm.
         Long.109-41E

Both mines were spherical, about 30 inches
diameter, and appeared to have been in the water for a
considerable length of time.

-10- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 94 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS

Two hunter-killer groups encountered. One
during the day on 9 March and one during dark morning
of 12 March, the latter being radar equipped. The convoy
encountered on 28 March was composed of 2 ships and eight
escorts. It is believed that we were picked up by the
DE's sound gear. After the first depth charging, we were
on the bottom in 165 feet of water with all machinery
silenced. The anti-submarine vessels used pinging and
after the initial depth charges did not regain contact,
but continued to drop charges where we were thought to
be.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE

The BLACKFIN was refitted in Subic by the U.S.S.
GRIFFIN.
Departure on patrol was held up one day because
of a bad bearing in #1 periscope. We went to sea with the
periscope still unsatisfactory but usable provided it did
not become worse. It became worse and in a few days was
of little value. Prior to departure, also, it was explain-
ed to the tender that #2 periscope fogged badly for about
10 seconds whenever it ducked or was splashed with a wave.
The tender checked the "dew point" and declared the peris-
cope was as good as it could be made to be. The result
was that periscope exposures with this periscope were twice
as long as they should have been.
The pit log again on this patrol run was a constant
source of trouble. No new bellows were obtained and the
log could not be adjusted to read the slow submerged speeds
correctly.
Shunt resistors on compensating fields of #1 and #2 main
motors were left disconnected when brushes were replaced.
This caused an unbalance in load between the motors. The
original #1 and #2 caused the solder on the brushes
"pig tails" to melt. Noticed and corrected error when we
found spots of solder on the commutators.
The Kleinschmidt stills were making battery water from
sea water when we came in from the last run. After one
week at sea only one still could do this and after the
second week neither could do so. It is interesting to
note that after our severe depth charging both stills could
again make battery water. Perhaps this is a new way of
cleaning stills.

- 11 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 95 —
The following text is a transcription of a document related to a U.S.S. BLACKFIN War Patrol Report.

CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

— page 96 —
U.S.S. BLAC FIN, Report of War-Patrol
Number Three.

explanation can be found for the bending down of
the stop bolt levers. Apparently they should have
bent in the other direction. The stop bolts on
tubes 2,4, and 5 were slightly scarred. The stop
bolt gibs on all tubes were undamaged.
4. Firing Valves and Pilot Valves - Tube #6 alone
developed leaks.
5. Anti-Drift Interlock - Two shims were removed from
muzzle door shaft of #6 tube to facilitate movement
of ready-to-fire lever. Anti-drift lock was scarred
and was rubbing on shaft.
6. Breach Door - Tube #2 leaked badly with outer door
open during depth charging. It now opens with diffi-
culty and may have been sprung.
7. Burner Wire Sockets - The rubber plug in tube #2 was
pulled out by movement of the torpedo. The burner
wire was pulled through the plug in #5 tube, having
broken about 10 inches outside the tube. Subsequent
leaks were stopped by driving in wooden depth charge
plugs.

After five days work, repairs were completed and all
tubes were back in commission. Inboard and water slugs
were satisfactorily fired from all tubes, Gyro angles
were set correctly by Gyro Indicator Regulator, and the
operation of the poppet mechanism tested.

II After Room - Mk. 23's loaded.
1. Drain and Muzzle Door Interlock - The Interlock
lever operates with difficulty on tubes 7 and 8.
The drain valve rods were probably bent by the
first depth charging. At that time all drain valves
were open preparatory to flooding the tubes.
2. Firing Interlock Mechanism - The ready-to-fire lever
binds badly on tubes 7 and 8. This condition con-
tinues with both the firing interlock and anti-drift
interlocks as well as the shutter-bar disconnected.
Therefore, it is believed that the interlock sleeve
head was knocked out of alignment, or the sleeve
misaligned so that it is binding in the speed or
depth setting mechanisms.
3. Firing Valves - Three valves developed leaks on
all tubes.
4. Pilot Valve - All pilot valves except #9 developed
leaks.
5. Gyro Spindles - The gyro spindles were damaged in
tubes 9 and 10 during the depth charging and were
bent, necessitating replacement.

- 13 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 100 —
The following text is transcribed from the image:

CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol

— page 104 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON THIRTY                               (00/By) 6 01408

FC5-30/A16-3
Serial 27
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.
                                                                11 April 1945.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) -
Report of Third War Patrol.

From:           The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY.
To :            The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via :           (1) Commander Submarines, SEVENTH FLEET.
                (2) Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject:        U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Third War Patrol.

        1.      The Third War Patrol of the U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322), conducted in
the South Sea Area, was of thirty-six days duration, twenty-eight of which were
spent in the assigned area. From 8 to 30 March the BLACKFIN was a unit of a
Coordinated Attack Group composed of the U.S.S. BLUEBACK (SS326) (OTC), U.S.S.
FLASHER (SS249), U.S.S. BERGALL (SS320), and U.S.S. HAWKBILL (SS366). On 26
March lifeguard duty was performed off CAMRANH BAY. Patrol was terminated due to
damage from depth charging and bottoming.

        2.      One contact worthy of torpedo fire was made on 28 March. This con-
tact consisted of a convoy of two AK's and eight escorts. When the BLACKFIN had
just about reached a position to attack, she was detected by a near escort and
severely depth charged. The BLACKFIN was forced to the bottom in 156 feet of water.
Extensive damage was sustained by the first pattern of seven close depth charges.
Major damage was to sound heads, bow and stern planes, stop bolts, torpedo guide
studs and hydrogen burner plugs. The BLACKFIN was able to repair some of the
damage prior to departure from the area two days later.

        3.      Communication with search planes was the best noted to date.
Search planes also strafed the DE's that were attacking the BLACKFIN, a very wel-
come assist.

        4.      The Material Condition of the BLACKFIN is only fair. It is expected
that the refit will extend beyond the normal period. The morale of the BLACKFIN
remains high as evidenced by the attitude of the morale of the Officers and crew.
The state of cleanliness was excellent.

        5.      The Commanding Officer and crew are congratulated upon the complet-
ion of an arduous patrol. It is regretted that no damage was inflicted upon the
enemy.

                                                                [SIGNATURE: Jesse L. Hull]
                                                                JESSE L. HULL.

[HANDWRITTEN: 29]

— page 105 —
[STAMP: Reg. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 937]]
[STAMP: R.S. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 6 01408]]

F24-71/A16-3
UNITED STATES NAVY
Serial 0865
[CROSSED OUT: CONFIDENTIAL]
[CROSSED OUT: C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L]
25 May, 1945.

SECOND INDORSEMENT to:
USS BLACKFIN Conf. Ltr.
SS322/A16, serial 03-45,
dated 9 March, 1945. Re-
port of Third War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarines SEVENTH FLEET.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via: The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Third War
Patrol, Comment on.

1. The Third War Patrol of the BLACKFIN, under the
command of Lieutenant Commander W. L. KITCH, U.S.N., was con-
ducted in the SOUTH CHINA SEA from 8 to 30 March. BLACKFIN
was a member of the BLUEBACK Group which maintained a continu-
ous blockade of the INDO-CHINA Coast, off CAPE VARELLA. The
patrol was terminated early because of damage received during
the depth-charge attack on 28 March.

2. On 28 March, BLACKFIN submerged two miles North of
HON TRAUNAM, and about the same distance off CON PENINSULA,
in order to be in position to attack a convoy previously reported
by aircraft. At 0959 the convoy had been sighted and was ob-
served to consist of two marus and eight escorts. Air cover was
not observed but had probably been driven off by a PB2Y which had
been observed making a run on the convoy a few minutes previously.
Such a heavily escorted convoy naturally posed a most difficult
approach problem, but BLACKFIN persisted in his attack and succeed-
ed in penetrating the outer screen. However, at 1010 he was de-
tected by the inner screen and several escorts detached themselves
from the convoy and launched a particularly severe counter-attack.
The same convoy, whose defense was weakened as a result of this
attack, was further weakened when BLUEGILL drew off several more
escorts by attacking at 1058. These attrition tactics doubtlessly
facilitated the final successful attack made at 1110 by BLUEGILL
which resulted in a tanker being torpedoed, beached and destroyed.
The enemy's inability to penetrate the air-submarine blockade off
CAPE VARELLA, even with such formidable escort protection, has
apparently resulted in stagnation of traffic in this area, because
no further convoy movement has been observed since that date.

[STAMP: FILMED]
- 1 -

— page 106 —
FE24-71/A16-3
UNITED STATES NAVY
Serial 0865
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
25 May, 1945.
14/hn

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLACKFIN Conf. Ltr.
SS322/A16, serial 03-45,
dated 9 March, 1945. Re-
port of Third War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Third War
Patrol, Comment on.

— page 107 —
UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET

A16-3(8)(F-3-4/ekb)
Serial: 04170

[STAMP: REG. NO. 1340]
[HANDWRITTEN: 735]
[STAMP: REG. SHEET NO 35]

CONFIDENTIAL
[HANDWRITTEN: 24 JUN 1945]

THIRD ENDORSEMENT on:
CO USS BLACKFIN conf.
ltr., serial 03-45 of
9 March 1945.

From: Commander Seventh Fleet.
To : ✓Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
Number Three.

1. Forwarded.

[SIGNATURE: J. H. Long]
J. H. LONG
By direction

Copy to:
ComSub7thFlt
ComSubRon 30
CO, USS BLACKFIN (SS322)

— page 108 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

6322/1S
Ser.00-45

[UNCLEAR: T.S.S. (003)]
[UNCLEAR: Ore of not out 0.00]
[UNCLEAR: of co, 3 lif.]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: N-T-I-A-L]
21 May 1945

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. BLACKFIN.
To : Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN - Report of War Patrol
Number FOUR.

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

1. Enclosure (A) covering the fourth war patrol
of this vessel conducted in South China Sea during the
period 8 May 1945 to 20 June 1945 is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: Wm. L. KITCH]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP-09B9C DATE 5/24/72]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 129183]

— page 112 —
1 (922)
---
1:25 ( ) [UNCLEAR: most al] [UNCLEAR: of] [UNCLEAR: a] [UNCLEAR: silbert] [UNCLEAR: t] [UNCLEAR: rim]
1415 ( ) [UNCLEAR: i] [UNCLEAR: a] [UNCLEAR: s] [UNCLEAR: illoc] [UNCLEAR: t] [UNCLEAR: ri] [UNCLEAR: 090]
1425 ( ) [UNCLEAR: Us] [UNCLEAR: lot] [UNCLEAR: d] [UNCLEAR: a] [UNCLEAR: 1]
1:30 ( ) [UNCLEAR: c] [UNCLEAR: c] [UNCLEAR: d] [UNCLEAR: c] [UNCLEAR: to] [UNCLEAR: to] [UNCLEAR: tr]
[UNCLEAR: anti] [UNCLEAR: a] [UNCLEAR: ip] [UNCLEAR: in] [UNCLEAR: ruu]
[UNCLEAR: geodily]
[UNCLEAR: el in pre]

17 May
0100 (I) Radar contact bearing 091°, range 8200 yards,
changed course to westward, started tracking
target. Size of pip indicated ship smaller
than an SC.
0215 (I) Lost contact on target. Believe he might have been
small patrol craft patrolling in vicinity north-
west of Badas Island.
0229 (I) Lowered sound head to check for any possible
echo ranging from target.
0235 (I) No echo ranging heard after careful search with
sound gear. Secured tracking party.
0340 (I) Set course for Subic Bay as per orders of CTG 71.1.
0520 (I) Exchanged call signs by radar with U.S.S. HA PER
[UNCLEAR: HEAD].
1540 (I) Sighted sailboat on horizon bearing 0850 T,
turned away to avoid being sighted.
1613 (I) Blew up line with 40 MM gun fire at position
02-56 N, 108-03 E.
1630 (I) Decided to take a look at sailboat now bearing
130° T.
1655 (I) Circled sailboat, no Japs aboard, resumed heading
for Subic Bay.

18 May
1513 (I) Sighted unidentified submarine on horizon bear-
ing 021° T, which appeared to have small angle
on the bow.
1515 (I) Submerged, headed for submarine.
1525 (I) Went to Battle Stations Torpedo. Still could not
see enough of submarine to identify him.
1546 (I) Target turned away. Secured from Battle Stations
but remained on normal approach course at standard
speed in an effort to close target.

- 4 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 113 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. L.C.I. (A-322) - Report of Patrol
No. FCLT.

1640(I) Closed target sufficiently to identify him as one of our
         own submarines.
1650(I) Surfaced.
1655(I) exchanged call signs by radar with U.S.S. CROAKER.

19 May
2040 (I) exchanged calls with U.S.S. S.M.Y. by radar.

20 May
1523(I) SD radar contact, range 12 miles. Proved to be friendly
         plane by IFF.

21 May
0145(I) exchanged calls with U.S.S. C.H.M. by radar.
0517(I) SD radar contact bearing 140° T, range 20,000 yards.
         Changed course to head for contact as it is probably
         escort.
0537(I) Sighted and exchanged calls with escort, the U.S.S.
         C.H.M.. Proceeded to Subic Bay in company with
         U.S.S. C.H.M. and escort.
1028(I) Arrived Subic Bay.

22 May to 30 May
         Moored alongside U.S.S. H.T.B.C. undergoing voyage
         repairs on main engines and main motors.

31 May
0600(I) Underway for exercise area to undergo engineering
         trials on main engines and main motors as required by Squadron 26
         Engineer Officer.
1520(I) Commenced full power run.
1915(I) Completed full power run.
1945(I) Returned to Subic Bay and moored alongside U.S.S. A.T.B.C..
         Note: As a result of the full power run it was found that the
         main motors were unsatisfactory. The main engines also were
         found to be unsatisfactory as cracks reappeared in the engine
         framework.
         As a result of the engineering trials, we were directed
         by Rear Admiral J. T. Fife, ComSubSeventhFleet, to strip
         ship and to proceed homeward to a yard with adequate facilities
         to determine the cause of trouble in our main engines and main
         motors, and to effect the necessary repairs to same.

- 5 - ENCLOSURE (4)

— page 114 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. FLASHER (SS222) - Report of War Patrol
No. FOUR.

Just prior to our departure from Subic, Lieut.
C. Waski, U.S.N., Lieut (jg) G. Mellor, U.S.N. and
Machinist B. R. Hendrix, U.S.N. reported aboard for duty
and passage back to the states. At the same time Lieut.
I. M. Thompson, U.S.N., Lieut(jg) W.F. Jefferson, (C)L,
U.S.N. and Ensign J. Oitovich, (C)L, U.S.N. were trans-
ferred. We also transferred all men in the crew who had less
than ten months out of the continental limits of the United
States and in their place received men who were due for leave
in the states. We also received on board as passengers fifteen
Filipino steward's mates.

2 June
1357(I) Departed Subic Bay, P.I. to proceed and report to ComSubSae
for further routing instructions per order of CTF 71.

3 June
0200(I) Exchanged recognition signals and call signs with U.S.
S.S.C.

4 June
1255(I) Sighted periscope bearing 130 T, range 2,000 yards (20-10,
120-24.5°), changed course to put periscope astern and went to
ahead flank speed.
1306(I) Well clear of periscope so resumed base course and slowed to
standard speed.
1830(I) Commenced transit of Balintang Strait.
2055(I) Completed transit of Balintang Strait.
2325(I) Exchanged recognition signals with U.S. submarine but was unable
to exchange calls with him.

6 June
0000(I) Set all clocks ahead one hour to (-) eleven zone time (KJT).

7 June
0420(K) SJ radar contact bearing 002 T, range 25,000 yards.
0426(K) Stationed tracking party, increased speed to flank. Now have
two targets who seem to have headed toward us on course 140 T,
speed 16 knots.

- 6 - CONFIDENTIAL (A)

— page 115 —
CC 1 JL TI/J.
L.A. 1 (3032) - Report of a patrol
No. FCLD.

0500(:) Nearest target had closed us to 15,000 yards at which time
         we decided to identify ourselves by releasing a flare as we
         believe targets to be a destroyer and destroyer escort. Both
         were radar equipped and their radar interference characteristics
         indicated that they were friendly.

0514(K) Began to open range steadily as targets slowed down and changed
         course to 190 T. Slowed full speed and secured tracking party.

8 June

0200(:) exchanged recognition signals and call signs with U. . . . IRATA.

9 June

0634(K) Sighted mast on horizon bearing 128 T. Headed towards it as it
         is probably our escort to Saipan, .I.
0705(K) exchanged recognition signals and call signs with escort, LCI 1062.
1138(K) Arrived Tanapag Harbor, Saipan, .I.

10 June

0947(K) Departed Tanapag Harbor, Saipan, .I., per orders of CTC 17.7 for
         local escort to . . . Saipan by the LCI 324.
1430(K) escort left us to return to base.
2015(K) exchanged recognition signals and call signs with U
2030(K) Bearing Anatahan Island, .I., abeam to starboard and Sarigan Island
         .I., abeam to port.
2130(K) exchanged recognition signals with U.S. CA. III
         U. . . . INV . . . .

11 June

0100(:) Set all clocks ahead one hour to zone (-) eleven time (10M).
0010(L) Sighted and exchanged recognition signals with U. . . . . . . and
         TIRATA.

14 June

0100(L) Set all clocks ahead one hour to zone (-) twelve time (I.M).

15 June

2400(:) Changed to (plus) twelve zone time (M.M).
0440(K) No radar contact bearing 095 T, range 18,500 yards. Changed
         course to keep all clear of target which proved to unescorted
         merchantman.
0500(N) Set all clocks ahead one hour to zone (plus) eleven time (C.C.).

- 7 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 122 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION ONE HUNDRED FIVE
eac
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,

23 June 1945.

FB5-105/A16-3

Serial 03

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

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO BLACKFIN Conf. Ltr.
SS322/A16 Serial 06-45
of 21 June 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Division ONE HUNDRED FIVE.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron TEN.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(3) The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Fourth War Patrol.

1. The Fourth War Patrol of the U.S.S. BLACKFIN, under the com-
mand of Lieutenant Commander W. L. KITCH, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the South
China Sea under the operational control of the Commander Submarines Seventh
Fleet.

2. Six days were spent in the area, the BLACKFIN returning to Subic
Bay due to main motor and main engine difficulties where she was subsequently
ordered to a base better equipped for determining the cause of the difficulties.

3. No contacts worthy of torpedoes were made. However, in one or
two instances the BLACKFIN failed to investigate the size of his radar contacts,
depending solely on range obtained by radar and the size of the pips. As suit-
able targets become less and less numerous, it is incumbent upon the commanding
officer to attack all contacts and drive even the enemy's smaller vessels from
the seas.

4. The BLACKFIN arrived in fair material condition except for the
main motor trouble and cracks in the main engine housings, and clean and ship
shape. It is expected that the Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, and Division ONE
HUNDRED FIVE Relief Crew will be able to refit her in the normal refit time.

5. The Commander Submarine Division ONE HUNDRED FIVE welcomes the
BLACKFIN to Pearl Harbor after it's sojourn in the Southwest Pacific and con-
gratulates the commanding officer, officers and crew upon completion of another
patrol and hopes there will be better hunting during their forthcoming patrol.

[SIGNATURE: W. H. Brockman]
W. H. BROCKMAN.

— page 123 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON TEN
Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

11/rhb

FC5-10/A16-3
23 June 1945
Serial: 0122
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322)-
Report of Fourth War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron TEN.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC
FLEET, Administration.
(2) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Fourth
War Patrol.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the
Commander Submarine Division ONE HUNDRED FIVE.

2. The Squadron Commander congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers, and the crew of the U.S.S.
BLACKFIN upon completion of that vessels' Fourth War Patrol.

[SIGNATURE: G. E. Peterson]
G. E. PETERSON.

— page 124 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET Ga
SERIAL: 01613
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
28 June 1945.

CONFIDENTIAL
NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to DESTROYED PRIOR TO
BLACKFIN Report of ENTERING PATROL AREA.
Fourth War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 798
U.S.S. BLACKFIN - 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. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Fourth War Patrol
(8 May to 21 May 1945).

1. The fourth war patrol of the BLACKFIN, under the command of
Lieutenant-Commander V. L. Kitch, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the South China Sea,
under the operational control of the Commander Submarines, SEVENTH Fleet.

2. After six days in area the BLACKFIN, unfortunately, was forced to
return to base, due to main motor and main engine casualties. Repairs will be
effected at Pearl Harbor. The Force Commander wishes the BLACKFIN better luck and
good hunting on her next patrol.

3. Award of Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol is not
authorized.

MERRILL COMSTOCK.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Report)
Cominch (7) SUBAD, MI (2)
CNO (5) ComsubspacSubordcom (3)
Cincpac (6) All Squadron and Div.
JICPOA (1) Commanders, Pacific (2)
AdICPOA (1) CSS 3 (Airmail) (5)
Comservpac (1) Substrainpac (2)
Cinclant (1) All Submarines, Pacific (1)
Comsubslant (1)
S/m School, NL (2) [SIGNATURE: W. S. Langley]
CO, S/m Base, PH (1) W. S. LANGLEY,
Comsopac (1) Asst. Flag Secretary.
Comsowespac (1)
Comsubs7thFlt (Fwd Echelon) (2)
Comnorpac (1)
Comsubspac (3)
ComsubspacAdComd (20)

— page 125 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

SS322/A16
Ser.09-45

U. S. S. BLACKFIN (SS322)
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, Calif.

5 September 1945

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED] (Submarine Patrol Report)

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. BLACKFIN.
To : Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : Official Channels.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN, Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.

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

1. Enclosure (A) covering the fifth war
patrol of this vessel conducted in Yellow Sea during
the period 17 July 1945 to 5 September 1945 is forwarded
herewith.

W. L. KITCH.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/24/72]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

— page 126 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BLACKFIN - Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE.
- (A) PROLOGUE

On 20 June, 1945, the BLACKFIN arrived in Pearl
Harbor from her fourth war patrol. The refit was under-
taken by Submarine Division 105 Relief Crew and the Sub-
marine Base, Pearl Harbor. The refit was completed on
11 July 1945. During this refit many alterations were
accomplished including the installation of JP-JT sound
gear, TDM equipment, APR-5, five inch ammunition scuttle,
Depth Charge Direction Indicator, and booster blower and
additional cooling coils in ventilation system. Two main
engines were overhauled and all main motors were rebrushed
and had a cut taken on the commutators.
During the last week of the refit, many of the offi-
cers and crew attended the various training schools made
available by ComSubTrainPac and it is felt that time spent
in attending these schools was well worth while.
During the refit and post refit period Lieut. C. R.
KASET, U.S.N.; Lieut.(jg) G. A. KELLER, III, U.S.N.; and
Mach. B. H. HENDRIX, U.S.N., were detached, and Lieut.(jg)
G. F. POLLOCK, (D), U.S.N.R.; Lieut.(jg) J. W. KIFFE, (DE)L,
U.S.N.R.; and Ensign J. C. BALL, (D), U.S.N.R. reported
on board for duty.
After two days of loading, one day of post refit
trials, and two more days of loading, the BLACKFIN got
underway and proceeded for patrol area via Midway for
training per orders ComSubPacAdCom.

(B) NARRATIVE

The officers and chief petty officers on board
at the start of this patrol were:

OFFICERS                                        Patrols*
Lt.Comdr. W. L. KITCH, USN                      Commanding        9
Lt. C. W. BUNTING, (DE), USNR                   Exec. & Nav       8
Lt. A. E. BARRETT, USN                          Gun. & Torp.      5
Lt. L. H. MISNER, (DE), USNR                    Eng. & Elec.      5
Lt(jg) W. E. TAVERNA, (DE), USNR                First Lieut.      5
Lt(jg) G. F. POLLOCK, (D), USNR                 Communications    1
Lt(jg) J. W. KIFFE, (DE)L, USNR                 Asst.1st Lt.      1
Ens. M. C. AIRHART, USN                         Asst. Eng.        7
Ens. J. C. BALL, (D), USNR                      Coms'y, Asst.Gun  1
                                                & Trp.

- 1 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 131 —
## The Story of the USS Blackfin's Fifth War Patrol

The USS Blackfin (SS-322) embarked on its fifth war patrol with a clear mission: to disrupt Japanese shipping and contribute to the Allied war effort in the Pacific. This patrol, spanning from July 28th to August 12th, 1945, was marked by both routine operations and unexpected encounters, ultimately culminating in a return to base for repairs and a new assignment.

**July 28th - August 7th: Outbound Transit and Initial Patrol**

The patrol began with the Blackfin departing from Pearl Harbor on July 28th, heading towards its assigned patrol area. The initial days were characterized by standard transit procedures, including a rendezvous with the USS Bream (SS-243) on July 30th for a transfer of personnel and supplies. The Blackfin then proceeded to its patrol area, conducting routine dives and surfacing for battery charges.

On August 2nd, the submarine encountered a small convoy of Japanese ships, but due to their speed and evasive maneuvers, the Blackfin was unable to achieve a favorable firing position. The following days involved continued patrolling, with several radar contacts that proved to be either too distant or too fast for an effective attack.

**August 8th: Convoy Encounter and Engagement**

The most significant event of the patrol occurred on August 8th. At 0450 (L), the Blackfin made radar contact with two ships bearing 275 T, range 13,000

— page 132 —
CONFIDENTIAL USS BLACKFIN - Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE

13 August

0206(K) SJ radar contact bearing 205 T, range
16,500 yards and SD radar contact 8 miles,
same contact, answers friendly on IFF.
0241(K) SJ radar contact bearing 287 T, range 7000
yards, plane, answers friendly on IFF.
1200(K) Position: 21° 27.5' N; 129° 30.5' E.
1353(K) Sighted submarine on horizon bearing 297 T.
1356(K) Exchanged recognition signals and call signs
with U.S.S. SCABBARDFISH.
1630(K) Sighted periscope bearing 025 R (030 T) about
3000 yards away. Position 22° 18.5' N; 139°
31.5 E. Turned towards and dove to 200 feet.
1650(K) Unable to make sound contact, so turned away.
1710(K) Planed up to periscope depth. All clear on
periscope sweep. Went to 100 feet, planing
up to periscope depth every 15 minutes for
periscope observation.
1805(K) TDM contact bearing 330 R, went to 300 feet.
After studying trace on TDM it was hard to
tell whether it could have been a torpedo
or not. Sound man reported noise very similar
to that made by torpedoes heard at Midway.
1820(K) Planed up to periscope depth. All clear on
periscope. Commenced running at 100 feet,
coming up to periscope depth for an obser-
vation every 15 minutes.
1951(K) Surfaced, went ahead flank to clear area on
base course 000 T.
1955(K) Sent message, BLACKFIN #3 to ComSubPac report-
ing periscope sighting.
2230(K) SJ radar contact bearing 010 T, range 2,500
yards. Turned away to avoid contact. Contact
disappeared almost immediately, probably a flock
of birds.
2242(K) Unable to regain contact, so came around slowly
to base course, 000 T.

14 August

0915(K) Sighted a B-29 squadron on a heading of approx-
imately 320 T.
1200(K) Position: 26° 08.5' N; 139° 32' E.
1706(K) Intercepted voice transmission between rescue
plane and the DEVILFISH on 4475 kcs, telling of
a plane down at position 28° 50' N; 139° 48' E.

- 7 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 153 —
CONFIDENTIAL USS BLAC.FIN - Report of War Patrol
Number FIVE
                                                              tion was placed between the
                                                              B.O. input crystal contact
                                                              and the ground shield. No
                                                              reoccurrence of this trouble
                                                              has been experienced. Operation
                                                              normal.
Very still operation of             Trouble was found to be due to
T.R. cavity tuning plug's           the center pin in the tuning plug
causing faulty operation            spreading the sides of the plug
tuning ratchets.                    excessively thereby increasing
                                    the diameter of the plug. The
                                    sides of the tuning plugs were
                                    compressed back to normal dia-
                                    meter. Operation was returned
                                    to normal. However, it is
                                    questionable as to the permanence
                                    of this type of repair.

C. SD-4 & SD-5 Combination          Power fuse was found to be
                                    blown as a direct result of a
Receiver monitor unit               bad 5U4G.5U4G and fuse were
totally inoperative.                replaced. Operation returned
                                    to normal. No reoccurrence.

D. APR-1,APR-5,BN & ABK
No operational difficulties. Operation normal.

                            2. Operation

                            A.SJ-1 Radar

         Overall operation of equipment was satisfactory.
Numerous echoes were received from birds and small objects
in the water out to 5000 y rds. On 13 August 1945 plane
contact was made:initial range 18,500 yards (E₁). At 7,000
yards (E₂), was received. Plane responded to IFF challenge.
No visual contact was made. Weather conditions: visibility
poor, sky partly cloudy, sea calm. Temp. 86F. Bar.30.00".
Lat. 27-28N; long. 139-28E.
         On 18 August 1945 contact was made with land at:
range 116,000 yards, height of land 6,383 ft(Saishu To),
signal E₂ (no secondaries), weather conditions; sea calm,
visibility poor, sky clear, very misty; lat 33-00N,long.
127-21E.
         On 19 August 1945 contact was made on a U.S. submarine
range 14,500 yards, reliable range 12,800 yards, signal E₂
for both ranges, weather conditions; visibility poor,
sea calm, sky partly cloudy, position, lat. 34-29N, long.
123-04E.

                               - 28 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 154 —
No. 3. J. W. - eport - and
number

On 13 August 1945, contact was made on a small oiler of
Lat. 22-18.5N, 139-30E. At 1, reporting, 139-00
No. 1. 124-00.
No. 1.
Operation of equipment is very good. But there were
be and a large number of torpedoes. There were no other
the required at these ranges.

C. -1 -5

Operation of these equipments is in general satis-
factory. Typical contacts are as follows:

DATE Location Freq. Pls.Rate Inten. Pls.length
17 Aug 31-30N 160 mcs. 500 Stat. 12.5 mic/sec
129-49E
17 Aug 33-14N 162 mcs. 500 Stat. 10.0 mic/sec
128-39E
24 Aug 34-50N 180 mcs 200 Stat. 7.5 mic/sec
124-35E

(N) SONAR GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

With the exception of the TDM, which was used
continuously at two engine speed and less, little oppor-
tunity was offered for utilizing the sonar gear or the
experiencing of sound conditions.
During the training period at Midway excellent results
were obtained with all sonar gear and it is presumed that
our sonar gear is still in good operating condition.
TDM contacts were made as follows:

DATE TIME LAT LONG REMARKS
13 Aug 1805(K) 22-18.5N 139-30E Coming up from 100 ft
to periscope depth when
sound men reported noise
on TDM that sounded like
a torpedo.Made a very
heavy trace on recorder.

- 29 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 157 —
COMMANDER SUBMARINE DIVISION THREE SIXTY TWO

FB5-362/A16-3(18)                                 Care of Fleet Post Office;
                                                 San Francisco, California,
Serial (0101)                                    6 September 1945.

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
Report of BLACKFIN's
Fifth War Patrol.

From: The Commander Submarine Division THREE SIXTY TWO.
To : The Commander in Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY-SIX.
      (2) The Commander Submarine Force, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET.
      (3) The Commander in Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322), Report of War Patrol
          Number Five.

      1. The fifth war patrol of the U.S.S. BLACKFIN was
conducted in the Yellow Sea area. The patrol was for thirty-
three (33) days duration in which thirteen (13) were spent in
the area.

      2. The BLACKFIN performed life guard duty daily and no
opportunity presented itself for rescue. The area was very well
covered but no enemy contacts in which offensive action could
be taken were made. A total of sixty-three (63) mines were sunk
or exploded. One possible enemy periscope was sighted and evaded.

      3. The Administrative Commander Submarine Division
THREE SIXTY TWO congratulates the commanding officer, officers,
and crew on completion of this patrol and their return clean
and shipshape. Voyage repairs will be made. Cracks in the top
of the blower housing of No. 1 and 2 main engines should be
repaired at first opportunity. This is a reoccurrence of cracks
in those engines.

                                                 [SIGNATURE: D. F. WILLISON]

— page 158 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON THIRTY SIX
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
6 September 1945.

FC5-36/A16-3
Serial: 069
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) -
Report of War Patrol
Number Five.

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

Subject: U.S.S. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of War Patrol
Number Five.

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

2. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew are
congratulated for another well conducted patrol and for the
destruction of sixty-three mines.

[HANDWRITTEN: (signature initials)]
JESSE L. HULL

— page 159 —
FF12-10/A16-3

Serial 0304

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
Building 10/20 of
Fifth War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 205
U.S.S. BLACKFIN - FIFTH 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. BLACKFIN (SS322) - Report of Fifth War Patrol
(17 July to 5 September 1945).

1. The fifth war patrol of the BLACKFIN, under the command of
Lieutenant Commander W. L. Kitch, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the Yellow
and China Seas.

2. The termination of hostilities occurred prior to the BLACK-
FIN reaching her assigned patrol station. However, a lifeguard station was
occupied and while on station a total of sixty-one (61) floating mines were
detonated or sunk by gun fire. No suitable gun or torpedo targets were en-
countered enroute to station.

3. Award of the submarine combat insignia for this patrol is not
authorized.

4. Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the BLACKFIN for the completion of
this patrol and regrets that no opportunity was afforded BLACKFIN to inflict
damage on the enemy.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7)
CNO (5)
Cincpac (6)
JICPOA (1)
AdICPOA (1)
Comservpac (1)
Cinclant (1)
Comsubslnt (8)
S/M School, NL (2)
CO, S/M Base, PH (1)
Comsopac (2)
Comsowespac (1)
Comsubs7thFlt (Fwd Echelon) (2)
Comsubs7thFlt (Rear Echelon) (2)
Comnorpac (1)

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

Rf
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
10 September 1945

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

[STAMP: EXTRA - ORIGINAL]
[STAMP: SORG. ______ MICRO ______]
[STAMP: PHOTO-LAB ______ OP-16 ______]
[STAMP: RETURN TO F-4253]

C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

Comsubspac (3)
ComSubspacAdComd (20)
SUBAD, III (2)
ComsubspacSubordcom (3)
All Squadron and Div.
Commanders, Pacific (2)
ComSubOpTraGrBalboa (Air mail) (5)
Substrain pac (2)
All Submarines, Pacific (1)

[SIGNATURE: E. J. AUER]
Assistant Flag Secretary.

10 017

— page 160 —
END OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: F-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-94-78]

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