U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS-399) — war patrol report SS-399_SEA_CAT.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108-AR-31-76]
[HANDWRITTEN: R#1]

1.0                               2.8       5.0
1.1                               2.5       3.6
1.25 1.4                          2.2       3.2
                                  2.0       2.8
                                  1.8       2.5
                                  1.6       4.0
                                            3.6
                                            3.2
                                            2.8
                                            2.5

OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: Havens]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 8-5-75]

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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[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
SS
Serial 044

U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

28 December 1944

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

From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Division 281.
     (2) The Commander Submarine Squadron 28.
     (3) The Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.
     (4) The Commander-in-Chief, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT, Report of War Patrol Number One (1).

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

1. Enclosures (A) and (B), covering the first war patrol of this
vessel conducted in waters off the West Coast of Hainan during the period
28 October 1944 to 28 December 1944, is forwarded herewith.

R. R. MC GREGOR

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED - ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY OP-----09B91C DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 1/1/71]]

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 103671]

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

(A) PROLOGUE

    Arrived Pearl Harbor from Portsmouth 3 October 1944. Voyage repairs,
    alterations and miscellaneous work were completed with utmost efficiency by
    the U.S.S. PELIAS and Submarine Base. Training exercises for new construction
    submarines in addition to two wolf pack sorties against escorted carrier
    groups were invaluable in the final conditioning of this vessel for its
    initial foray.

(B) NARRATIVE

28 October 1944
1335 Under way for first war patrol from Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
    In company with a wolf pack consisting of PAMPANITO with Captain FENNO,
    OTC, PIPEFISH and SEA CAT.
1516 Formed column with escort patrolling ahead. Order in column - PAMPANITO,
    SEA CAT, PIPEFISH.
1625 Fired all guns at jury rig target.
1700 Rejoined formation to pass through Kauai Channel.
1730 Escort departed for Pearl.
1800 Changed time to zone +11.

29 October 1944
0929 Made trim dive. SJ mast leaked copiously at all depths.
1000 Surfaced. Subs in column, 3,000 yards distance, zig-zagging at 14 knots.
1300 Commenced daily fire control and communication drills with pack.

30 October 1944
0900 Morning dive.
1000 Surfaced. Daily drills.

31 October 1944
0900 Morning dive.
1000 Surfaced. Daily drills.
1400 Changed to zone -12 time.

1 November 1944
1000 Moored pier S-1, Midway. Topped off fuel and provisions. Repacked SJ
    mast. Ensign C.H. DORSEY, Jr., USNR and one radioman striker reported
    on board for duty.

2 November 1944
0700 Under way in company with SCABBARDFISH. Test fired 40 mm and 50 caliber
    machine guns when clear of harbor.
0900 J.O.O.D. claimed he sighted periscope. Later said it might have been a
    bird. Took evasive action. Immediately notified plane escort and sent
    contact report to CTG 17.5 and Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.

-1-

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

1605 Made deep dive. SJ packing satisfactory.
1743 Crossed 180° meridian, changed date to November 3.

4 November 1944

0932 Morning dive.
1000 Surfaced. Drills.

5 November 1944

0900 Morning dive.
1000 Surfaced. Drills.
1100 Changed time to -11 (L).

6 November 1944

0814 O.O.D. saw torpedo broach 30° on starboard bow, distance 250 yards, at
     Lat. 22-02 N. Long. 164-48 E. Definitely a torpedo, steel, with warhead
     slightly darker than the body. The head was of more pointed construction
     than ours. We were using the Arma course clock and zigging left at the
     time of sighting. Immediately notified SCABBARD FISH, giving her a
     clearing course. We cleared the locality at best speed. Sea was (3).
     No torpedo wake was observed. Sent report to Commander Submarines,
     Pacific Fleet.

7 November 1944

0858 Morning dive.
0930 Surfaced.
1051 Made quick dive on SD contact (#1) distance 12 miles. In clearing
     bridge Lieutenant E.V. NIEMEYER, Jr., USNR suffered a wound just below
     the groin. Pharmacist Mate did a stitching job worthy of any dear mother.
     Officer was placed on the sick list.
1115 Surfaced. SCABBARD FISH still submerged. Steamed in circles until she
     surfaced. Then proceeded at best speed on three engines.

8 November 1944

0800 Entered safety lane.
1023 Radar (SD) and lookouts picked up plane (#2) bearing 180° T distant 15
     miles (large patrol type). Submerged immediately.
1110 Surfaced.
1600 Changed time to -10 (K).

9 November 1944

1258 Afternoon dive.
1400 Surfaced.

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

1511 Made quick dive in good attack position on high periscope contact
     on submarine. Identified it as ours.
1535 Surfaced and changed signals by SJ. Submarine was the "COD".

10 November 1944

0200 Sarigan Island abeam to starboard 10,000 yards.
0515 Made quick dive on SD contact at 4 miles. Believed it to be friendly
     since we were near Saipan, but took no chances. SCABBARD FISH also
     pulled the plug.
0558 Rendevous with escort.
1101 Entered Saipan Harbor.
1144 Moored port side to U.S.S. SCABBARD FISH, alongside U.S.S. FULTON at
     Saipan. Changed time to -9 (I). Received mail, fuel and had minor
     repairs effected by Squadron Eight relief crew. Ensign O.B. HOEL, USN
     reported on board for duty.

11 November 1944

1255 Under way from Saipan in company with PAMPANITO, PIPEFISH, SCABBARD FISH,
     ARCHERFISH and SEA RAVEN escorted by AM154 to entrance of safety lane.
     SEA RAVEN was an addition to our wolf pack.
1345 Held 40 mm practice outside harbor.
1900 Entered Safety Lane Submarines in column, distance 4 miles. Escort
     detached.

12 November 1944

0650 Morning dive.
0800 Surfaced.
1900 SCABBARD FISH and ARCHERFISH left formation for their patrol areas.
     Wolf pack in column, distance twenty miles. Took course for Batan
     Islands.

13 November 1944

0820 Sighted fighter type aricraft astern, distance 10 miles. Submerged.
     Decided to stay down and work on H.P. air manifold to eliminate bad
     leaks in Bow Buoyancy and M.B.T. blow valves.
1250 Surfaced. Unable to eliminate leaks until we manufacture a new tool for
     holding the grinding tool.
1900 Received Lane assignments in area from Comwolfpac.

14 November 1944

1300 Submerged to work on H.P. air manifold again. Eliminated leaks.

-3-

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

1733 Surfaced. We were about 120 miles from PAMPANITOS estimated position.
2300 Received instructions from Comwolfpac to arrive new patrol point by
     0900 November 16th. Proceeded immediately at flank speed.

15 November 1944

     Flank speed all night and day attempting to make patrol point. Found
     after evening star sights that this was impossible. Sent despatch to
     Comwolfpac informing him we would be in Bashi Channel the 16th.

16 November 1944

0447 SJ contact in Bashi Channel (ship contact #1) at 17,500 yards. Closed
     target to 10,000. By that time we had picked up five other smaller
     pips. The group were on course 165, speed 8.8 knots, not zigging. By
     the time target had closed 9,000 we could make her out as a small
     coastwise steamer of not more than 1,500 tons. Her companions were of
     small patrol boat size. We had picked these up on the radar at ranges
     from 14,000 to 12,000. Although having the itchiest of fingers, knew
     that an attack was not warranted. We reluctantly pulled clear.
     Believe this group were probably escorts moving to the Island Anchorages
     to be used in convoys from there to the Phillipines. Decided to run a
     submerged patrol in Bashi Channel.
0615 Morning dive.
1715 Surfaced midst rain and spray. Headed for our designated point in area.

17 November 1944

0630 Morning dive in heavy seas (5).
1030 Surfaced.
1600 Afternoon dive.
1800 Surfaced.

18 November 1944

0230 Arrived on station.
0805 Quick dive on SD contact (#3) at 8 miles.
0932 Surfaced in sea (5).
1630 Afternoon training dive.
1800 Surfaced.
1945 Received PAMPANITO contact report. Went ahead flank speed and took
     course to intercept.
1950 Received SEA RAVEN'S report of attack by aircraft with resultant minor
     damage.
2030 SD radar contact (#4) 11 miles. Slowed speed to reduce wake phosphore-
     scence. Contact did not close and disappeared shortly thereafter.
     Resumed flank speed.

-4-

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19 November 1944
0100 Sent message to Comwolfpac saying we were searching vicinity but
     could not locate him or the remnants, if any, of the convoy. Abandoned
     search. Received despatch from Comwolfpac proceed to a new patrol point
     and run a submerged patrol. Complied.
1800 Surfaced to receive China Broadcast. Worst time of day for it as planes
     are most difficult to see at evening twilight. Broadcast should be at
     1900. Sea (4) to (5).

20 November 1944
0630 Morning dive.
1200 Surfaced.
1715 Quick dive on SD contact (#5) 8 miles. Sky overcast.
1830 Surfaced in sea (4) to (5).
2150 SD contact (#6) 8 miles. Quick dive at 4 miles. No APR contact during
     this period.
2220 Surfaced.

21 November 1944
0615 Morning dive.
1200 Surfaced in sea (4).
1610 Quick dive on SD contact (#7) 10 miles. Sky completely overcast.
1800 Surfaced for China Broadcast in heavy sea.
2150 SD contact (#8) 14 miles. Lost it at 13½.
2230 SJ contact (ship contact #2) at 39,500 (good pip). Tracked and closed at
     flank speed. At 30,000 sighted red light and masthead light at bearing
     of target. Closed to 16,000 to positively identify target as hospital
     ship, with correct lighting (red cross, green band, and all running lights).
     Continued disgustedly on normal surface patrol.

22 November 1944
0530 SJ out of commission.
0630 Morning dive. Decided to remain submerged during daylight while
     repairing radar. It will facilitate work on that all important unit.
1830 Surfaced.
2200 SD contact (#9) 16 miles. Lost it at 15½. SJ radar still out of
     commission. That 40,000 yard range last night must have given it
     dyspepsia.

23 November 1944
SJ radar out of commission.
0115 SD contact (#10) 6 miles. It closed to 4 then opened out. Lost contact
     at 7. No APR indication.

-5-

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

0630 Morning dive.
0929 JF heard screws bearing 250.
0930 Periscope sighted friendly submarine on that bearing, distance 10,000.
     Nice to see a target even if it was friendly. Subdued our eager
     impulses and pulled clear of track. Submarine was probably PIPEFISH.
     We were working on our SJ otherwise would have surfaced and chatted.
1830 Surfaced in sea (4) sky overcast.
1900 Fired four rounds from 40 mm for test.

24 November 1944

     SJ radar out of commission.
0250 SD contact (#1) 12 miles. Watched it close to 3 miles and then
     submerged.
0310 Surfaced. No APR indication on this contact. These planes may be radar
     equipped but their actions belie it. We use our SD every 45 seconds.
0630 Received despatch from Comwolfpac changing our patrol line and telling
     all hands to remain undetected. Proceeded on surface towards our new
     line.
0800 Morning dive.
1450 Sighted friendly submarine, range 9,000. We were on our new patrol line.
1730 Sighted sails at about 12,000. Closed to 2,500. Targets were two small
     junks with no evidence of Nip subsidization. We were well inside the
     100 fathom curve. Allowed the fisherman to proceed on their way
     unmolested.
1815 Surfaced. Sail Jig still out of commission and technician was at a loss
     as to the cause.

25 November 1944

     SJ radar out of commission.
0800 Morning dive. Remained submerged to complete repair of SJ.
2000 Surfaced. SJ back in excellent working order. Sea (2) to (3).

26 November 1944

0300 SJ radar out again.
0630 Morning dive.
1100 SJ back in commission. Surfaced.
1500 SJ radar out again.
1645 Afternoon dive. Remained submerged to complete repairs to SJ.
1900 Surfaced with SJ again operating at top efficiency.
2000 SJ out again. Radar officer and technician were carried on litters to
     conning tower.
2020 Commenced converting #4 M.F.T. to M.B.T.
2115 Completed conversion.
2350 SJ radar operating at top efficiency once again. Sea (2) to (3).
2400 Submerged to eliminate remaining fuel in #4 M.B.T.

-6-

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CONFIDENTIAL

27 November 1944

0030 Surfaced.
0615 Morning dive.
0930 Surfaced.
1150 Quick dive on SD contact (#12) 16 miles.
1235 Surfaced.
1600 Fired four rounds from 40 mm gun for excitement and test.
1630 Afternoon dive.
1755 Surfaced for China Broadcast.
1830 Received contact report form PAMPANITO of four ships proceeding on course
     020. Enemy 110 miles from us. His ultimate destination appears to be
     Hong Kong. We naturally made no attempt to close his position but
     paralleled his course in order to be in a good spot should he head over
     in our direction.
2045 Message from PAMPANITO that they had lost contact and that opposition
     might be on 220° rather than 020. Nothing we can do about it. Sent our
     position to Cowolfpac.

28 November 1944

0215 SD and SJ contact 16 miles (#13)✓. SJ lost contact immediately.
0217 Lost contact at 16 miles on SD. No APR indication. Headed on true
     bearing of SJ contact at flank speed for 25 minutes to definitely
     establish as a plane.
0240 There being no further contact we resumed patrol.
0330 SJ contact at 10,000 yards (#14)✓. Lost contact about one minute there-
     after. Believed to be a plane. Headed on true bearing of target for
     ½ hour at standard speed for substantiation. No further contact so
     resumed patrol.
0615 Morning dive.
0900 Surfaced.
0940 Quick dive on SD contact (#15)✓ 14 miles.
1015 Surfaced.
1110 SJ contact directly in the sun bearing 310 relative, distance 3,000
     yards. This was a definite small pip that remained on the scope for
     approximately 3 minutes. Turned away at flank speed putting contact
     astern and pulled clear. Never sighted it. Sea is quite calm. This was
     possibly a periscope contact. If so, he was in a good firing position.
     Notified Wolf Pack.
1315 Quick dive on SD contact (#16)✓ 12 miles.
1350 Surfaced. This area is positively brimming with action. Maybe in time
     we'll even see some signs of surface life. Will spend the next few days
     on our line down South.

-7-

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

29 November 1944

0615 Morning dive.
0915 Surfaced. Sea (2).
1245 Quick dive on SD contact (#17) 8 miles.
1325 Surfaced.
1430 Quick dive on sighting plane at 3° elevation, distance about 10 miles
     (#18).
1830 Surfaced.
2055 SD contact (#19) 6 miles.
2056 SJ plane contact 7 miles.
2058 SJ lost contact.
2100 SD lost contact at 7 miles. Received message from Comwolfpac asking
     if the pack desired a change of area. We all answered yes - but
     definitely.
2245 Received possible contact report from PAMPANITO. Immediately headed on
     an intercepting course at flank speed. It would have taken us about
     five hours to get within radar range if we were fortunate enough to
     ultimately make contact. Requested PAMPANITO notify us if contact was
     worth the trip and fuel expenditure involved.

30 November 1944

0030 Received a negative from PAMPANITO so headed back to our line.
0540 SJ contact 13,000 yards. Looked like a submarine pip. Closed
     and sent recognition signals by SJ. At 8,500 received reply. Submarine
     identified as PIPEFISH. Closed and exchanged news. Wished them a
     happy thanksgiving but found we were wasting our breath on Democrats.
     To be entirely truthful our celebration today is due to the influence
     of a group of unreconciled Texans. Lost PIPEFISH at 13,900. SJ is
     in the best shape of its entire career. The trouble experienced on
     this cruise was the first serious casualty in six months of constant
     operation. The resultant complete overhaul increased its efficiency
     at least 25% over its previous best.

0642 Morning dive.
0930 Surfaced.
0950 Sighted what resembled a periscope broad on the starboard bow distance
     about 1,200 yards. Turned away at flank speed. Object remained exposed
     and was clearly seen by C.O., J.O.O.D., and Quartermaster. Made two
     tubes ready aft and steadied with object dead astern. SJ radar had it
     now at 1,000 yards. Several reasons deterred us from firing (1) the
     object remained in constant view, same degree of exposure, showed no
     wake and no glass reflection although pointed into the sun. (2) It
     might be one of our own. This thought had no great influence. Am
     certain one of ours wouldn't expose himself in such a foolish manner.
     (3) Object didn't have quite a bona fide periscope appearance. Decided
     to dive and see if we could pick anything up on sound. Quick dive at
     1,300 yards range and went to silent running. Heard nothing but
     numerous fish.

-8-

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

1045 Surfaced, pulled away from spot at flank speed, then resumed normal
     patrol well clear. After duly considering all evidence it is our
     opinion that the object was not a periscope.
1600 Afternoon dive.
1755 Surfaced.
1900 Comwolfpac shifted positions of pack. Proceeded at once to new
     station.
1910 Message from PIPEFISH saying she had been closely bombed and slightly
     damaged this morning.
2210 to 2215 Six contacts on SJ at ranges from 30,000 to 45,000 yards.
2212 SJ plane contact (#20) 32,000 yards in same direction as other pips.
2213 SD contact on same plane. Lost all contact with plane shortly there-
     after. Headed towards closest contact. Sky cloudless. Pips were a
     cross between a rain cloud and a ship but definitely neither. Each
     was a hazy double image. Technician and radar officer agreed thay had
     somewhat the appearance of "Windows". The plane contact in the center
     of them would indicate the source. Couldn't be picked up on the
     precision sweep. Tracked the closest right to its lair. The pip
     broadened and weakened as the range decreased. Finally lost it at
     1,000 yards. Bright moonlight but couldn't pick it up by sight.
     Wind was about 2 knots on a southerly course. Wind was about 2 knots
     from the NE. These "Windows" if they were "Windows" are not effective.
     Their bastard origin can be immediately detected. Radar operation is not
     affected.

1 December 1944

0615 Morning dive 20 miles from Hainan. Sea calm.
1730 Sighted smoke on horizon. Ship Contact # 3.
1740 Surfaced to take a good observation. Sighted masts of three ships,
     largest one with high stack. Looked small. Radar picked up at 23,000.
     Even with radar in its present excellent shape figured largest of
     targets should be at least 300 feet. Submerged to escape detection
     and await dusk. Sunset 1749. Moonrise 1902.
1831 Surfaced with largest ship at 16,000. Tracked and sent contact report
     to wolf pack of three small ships course 270 speed nine.
1915 Arrived at firing position 2,500 yards from target. Moon was up,
     visibility good. As range decreased target size diminished. Binocular
     field showed it to be in the neighborhood of 200 to 250 feet. Changed
     our original intention of firing four torpedoes. Target on straight
     course in Sea (2). TDC checking perfectly for ten minutes when we
     fired two torpedoes, spread ½ L ½ R depth setting 3 feet. Missed.
     One torpedo broached about 500 yards from us. Wound up 2,000 yards
     from target after completing our turn away. Had an excellent view of
     her which substantiated estimate of length. A ringer for the Hai Ping,
     page 155 of ONI 208. TDC continued to check exactly for fifteen
     minutes after firing, when it was secured.

-9-

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

Possibility of erratic torpedo runs at 3' depth setting strongly exists
here. The other two ships were definitely smaller. Decided further torpedo
expenditure unwarranted. Notified pack. As our presence is still unknown
here vetoed gun fire. Ended up about 15 miles from Hainan. With SJ in
present condition will have to revise our estimates of target size versus
contact range. It would appear that anything picked up inside of 25,000
yards is not worthy of notice.

3 December 1944
Sea (5) and nasty.
0040 Received contact report large convoy from SEA RAVEN.
0230 PAMPANITO passed astern of us. Exchanged SJ recognition signals.
[MARGINAL: Ship Contact # 4.]
0300 SJ contact 38,000 yards. Notified pack. Had collected seven large pips as
     we passed 30,000. This was the last total count. Too busy tracking
     individual pips and escorts. Came in starboard side of convoy. Finally had
     in sight two escorts, at least one of which was a destroyer, two tankers of
     about the same size and an unidentified blotch in the starboard column, one
     tanker and an AK in the next column. Thats as far as our visibility extended.
     Had convoy speed solved. Convoy making frequent irregular course changes
     probably due to SEA RAVENS attack. These changes were ordered by means of
     two vertical all around red or green lights flashed by the escort. All ships
     in convoy would answer with a similar signal. The course changes followed
     about 30 seconds after the original signal. It appeared that red was for
     about a 25° change to starboard; green for the same change to port. Moved in
     ahead of starboard escorts to make approach on leading starboard tanker on
     course to fire cross sea. Using TBT bearings. Roaring sea and wind hampe-
     ring communications. (Note: The 7MC speaker has to be moved over by the TDC.
     Fought for this change with building yard to no avail). Figured a right zig
     was coming up next so went in on a 120 track to fire at 1,500 yards. Just
[MARGINAL: Attack # 2.]
     prior to reaching firing point closest escort flashed 2 vertical all around
     red masthead lights. That was answered by the same signal from ships in con-
     voy. Immediately thereafter target started a 25° zig to the right. Held fire
     until target steadied on new course. By the time we had the new firing setup
     the range had closed to 750 yards. Weather very murky and there was still a
     good possibility we would remain undetected.
0440 Saw the yellow in the Tanker Captain's eye. Couldn't miss so fired two
     torpedoes with small spread on a 92° track with 10° R gyro. Wished to retain
     the initiative so gave left full rudder to clear. Tanker remained on her
     course. Both starboard escorts were now about 3,000 yards away.
0440-40 First torpedo hit visually and by sound. Hit forward of bridge. Couldn't
     see portion of ship through smoke or water cascade. A few seconds thereafter
     we were subjected to intense light caliber fire from after tanker guns. Having
     to present our broadside must have given us away. Track bullets all around
     us - definitely not firing at random. As we were but 400 yards distant from
     the tanker, and heading in the general direction of the after starboard screen
     figured it was time to dive and did so. A few seconds thereafter the second
     timed torpedo hit by sound. Went deep. After slowing heard breaking up noises,
     bearings of which remained constant. Tanker stopped. Breaking up noises per-
     sisted for about 2 or 3 minutes then silence in that direction. Finish of one
     large tanker. This sinking was substantiated by the absence of three tankers
     from the convoy during the attacks of the PIPEFISH and PAMPANITO within the
     next two hours.

-10-

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We accounted for the first. The SEA RAVEN thirty minutes later sank the
second and crippled the third. The crippled third left the original
convoy and was sunk by us at 0131, 4 December.

0449 Depth charging from two escorts started. Total 28 fairly close.
     Our being forced down was a great disappointment as we fully expected
     to clean up. Our consolation, besides sinking a large tanker, is that
     we probably assisted the next boat attacking by taking two escorts out
     of the fray. Fortunately the pack took ample care of the rest of the
     convoy.
        Ship Con-
        tact #5
0719 Surfaced with one ship and two escorts at 18,000 yards. Reported
     contact. Must be part of original convoy. Tracked all day. Waited
     for nightfall. It arrived dark and miserable. Seas had increased to
     (6). SEA RAVEN asked if we were attacking crippled tanker that she had
     previously hit with one torpedo. Assumed so as target speed was 4 knots.
     SEA RAVEN had also been tracking her.
        Attack #3
2050 Fired four torpedoes, depth setting 10' down trough of sea. Range
     3,400. TDC checking perfectly at 3.8 knots. SEA RAVEN also checks
     about that speed. Used 150% spread. Angle on bow checked visually
     with TDC. Heard three explosions between 5 and 6 minutes. Too late to
     consider them hits. Must have been end of run. Was stumped as to why
     we missed. Disgustedly played around with the escorts again.
        Attack #4
2140 Fired our two remaining torpedoes forward, down the trough, 10' depth
     setting, at 2,500. Used 80% spread. Missed again. One end of run
     explosion at 7'30". It must have been that 10' depth setting wasn't
     enough for heavy seas. Notified Comwolfpac of results. He suggested
     15'. Reloaded four tubes forward. In the meantime told SEA RAVEN she
     could attack if she so desired. She did so and missed with her one
     remaining torpedo.
2215 Despatch from Comwolfpac to change station.

4 December 1944

     We took our time, reviewed past performances and tracked again.
     Target speed 3 knots. Visibility had improved. Could see the escorts
     now out to 6,000.
        Attack #5
0131 Fired four torpedoes at 2,100 yards, 15' depth setting, with the sea.
     Two definite timed hits. Tanker took starboard list and began to
     settle. One escort, distant about 3,000 yards, picked us up after the
     explosion and ran us out to 20,000. Easily out-distanced him. At
     5,000 tankers decks appeared awash. Lost sight of it completely at
     about 6,000. Tanker pip diminished rapidly and radar lost it at less
     than 10,000. We had previously tracked her as far out as 27,000.
     Finis for her! From now on give us live targets. One cripple with two
     escorts is harder to bag than a whole one in a convoy.
0700 Arrived at designated patrol station.
0710 Morning dive. All hands are pooped so will remain submerged today.
1615 Surfaced.
2130 Despatch from Comwolfpac to change stations.

-11-

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

5 December 1944
0600 Arrived at designated station. Surface patrol today. Poor
     visibility. Sea (5).
1800 SEA RAVEN released to return to Pearl.

6 December 1944
0630 Morning dive in at least sea (5). Decided to remain submerged most
     of the day.
1600 Surfaced in sea (6). Wind has increased. Sky completely overcast.
     Very annoying weather.

7 December 1944
0630 Morning dive in sea (6). Sky completely overcast.
0930 Surfaced.
1100 Quick dive on SD contact (#21) 4 miles.
1300 Surfaced. Can't see anything remaining submerged. On the top you
     can't head into this sea and expect to dive in any less time than
     eternity. Life isn't worth living below if you head across it. The
     only alternative is to ride with it during the day and against it at
     night when there's no fear of aircraft. This works out quite well
     but ultimately we may end up with Sowespac.

8 December 1944
0700 Morning dive.
0930 Surfaced in sea (6). Another terrific day.
1400 Sighted mine. Made three runs on it. Fired ten 40 mm shells and two
     magazines of 20mm. Weather too rough for the forty, although it
     came close a few times. The twenties made some hits and knocked off
     at least two horns. Must be a dud. Heading in its present direction
     it can't possibly affect any of our forces. It will probably land up
     on the coast of Indo China.
1515 Quick dive on SD contact (#22) 6 miles.
1745 Surfaced.

9 December 1944
0640 Morning dive.
0930 Surfaced in sea (5). Visibility has improved.
1110 Quick dive on SD contact (#23) 8 miles.
1230 Surfaced. Our last fix was the morning of December 5th. Since then
     we had neither sun nor star. Occasional ranges on the radar of unknown
     points on Hainan. Soundings had been a very dim guiding light as
     they're charted few and far between. We gathered a few for the
     hydrographic office.

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Old Sol broke through momentarily and we found ourselves approximately
on our line but twenty miles South of the patrol point. Just about
where the Navigator had figured we were by "Ouija Board".
1530 Quick dive on SD contact (#24) 12 miles.
1830 Surfaced in sea (4) to (5).

10 December 1944

0645 Morning dive.
0930 Surfaced in sea (5).
1700 Afternoon dive.
1930 Surfaced in sea (4). Wolf pack requested five day patrol extension

11 December 1944

0635 Morning dive.
0945 Surfaced in sea (4).
1050 Quick dive on SD contact (#25) 8 miles.
1230 Surfaced.
1315 Quick dive on SD contact (#26) 9 miles.
1405 Surfaced.
1700 Afternoon dive. Sky completely overcast.
1830 Surfaced.
1900 Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet granted 7 day patrol extension.

12 December 1944

0415 Despatch from Comwolfpac to change station. Complied.
0630 Morning dive enroute new station 12 miles from Toncon Point, Hainan.
 As there are supposedly a radar station and seaplane base there we
 remained submerged.
1830 Surfaced on station in sea (3). For the rest of night complied with
 search plan directives from Comwolfpac.

13 December 1944

0300 Arrived new station 18 miles from Hainan.
0635 Morning dive in sea (3). Completely overcast. Had but 49, 000 gallons
 fuel with ten more days on station.
1430 Surfaced. Periscope visibility poor.

14 December 1944

0635 Morning dive in sea (3). Completely overcast.
0945 Surfaced.
1317 Quick dive on SD contact (#27) 10 miles.
1730 Surfaced.

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1815 Despatch from Comwolfpac to change station.
2400 Arrived new station.

15 December 1944

0030 Despatch form Comwolfpac to change station South of area.
0415 Arrived new station.
0630 Morning dive in sea (3). Completely overcast.
0945 Sighted friendly submarine 8,000 yards.
0950 Surfaced and exchanged calls by SJ with PIPEFISH. We have had SJ
ranges on Hainan recently and are fairly certain of our position.
1117 Quick dive on SD contact (#28) 6 miles.
1232 Surfaced.
1640 Submerged.
1755 Surfaced. Despatch from Comwolfpac to change station.

16 December 1944

0717 Morning dive.
1000 Surfaced. Now using SD radar once every 30 seconds.
1140 Quick dive on SD contact (#30) 8 miles.
1235 Surfaced.
1920 Despatch from Comwolfpac to change station. For rest of night complied
with search plan directives from Comwolfpac.

17 December 1944

0415 Contact report from PIPEFISH. Closed enemy at flank speed assuming it
on course 220.
0600 PIPEFISH reported one freighter course 270. Enemy was now heading for
Hainan. Took course to intercept at flank speed.
0700 SJ acting up. Its been a great fight during the last month between
that instrument and the technicians as to who would hold out the
longest. By dint of constant endeavor the set has been kept working
at top efficiency.
0800 Sighted target through the haze in her sector, heading for the S.E. tip
of Hainan, angle on bow 150 starboard. SJ then picked him up at
14,000 yards. What a come down! We opened out to prevent being
sighted. It was soon apparent that the target was so close to Hainan
as to preclude even the faintest possibility of our making an end around
for submerged attack. If it was possible to get this target the PIPEFISH
and PAMPANITO were in a position to do so from the other side.
0900 Stopped our approach and notified Comwolfpac. Stood by for further
orders.

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1124 Enemy made port safely. Comwolfpac ordered pack to return to patrol
     stations.
1402 Made quick dive on arrival at station.
1750 Surfaced. SJ back in excellent condition.

18 December 1944

0640 Morning dive.
0955 Surfaced for China schedule.
1055 Quick dive on SD contact (#31) 10 miles.
1402 Surfaced.
1423 Quick dive on SD contact (#32) 8 miles.
1755 Surfaced.
1815 PAMPANITO departed from patrol area enroute Fremantle.
2200 Conservation of fuel is a major problem now particularly for the
     PIPEFISH. Notified them to make stationary patrol on new station
     50 miles East Toncon Point. SEA CAT 20 miles East of same point.
     What little traffic there is in area passes through these lanes.
     No traffic can pass inboard of us without detection.

19 December 1944

0630 Morning dive.
0955 Surfaced for China broadcast.
1030 Submerged.
1758 Surfaced.

20 December 1944

0635 Morning dive. Sea (3).
0955 Surfaced for China schedule.
1020 Submerged.
1758 Surfaced.

21 December 1944

0644 Morning dive in sea (3).
0958 Surfaced for China broadcast.
1020 Submerged.
1800 Surfaced.
1830 Notified PIPEFISH at 1900 patrol East at 10 knots.
2000 SJ and SD contact (#33) 8 miles.
2005 Lost contact at 13 miles.
2240 Contact report from China planes of one cruiser and one destroyer
2300 Pack reversed course for one hour to allow for possible interception.
     Chances of warships coming over this way are very slight. PIPEFISH
     very low on fuel and we're not much better off.

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22 December 1944

1105 Quick dive on SD contact (#34) 10 miles.
1200 Surfaced.
2345 Departed area enroute Guam in company with FIPEFISH. Continued
     wolf pack frequency.

23 December 1944

     On surface enroute Guam.
1425 Quick dive on SD contact (#35) 12 miles.
1509 Surfaced.
2108 Plane contact (#36) 15 miles on SJ.
2213 SJ contact 70,000 yards on Y'ami Island at the North tip of the Batan
     group. Other Islands of the group were picked up as we progressed
     through Bashi Channel.

24 December 1944

0500 APR contact.
0505 SD contact (#37) 20 miles. Lost it at 18.
1002 Quick dive on SD contact (#38) 14 miles.
1037 Surfaced.
1100 Despatch from Comsubpac directing SEA CAT and FIPEFISH proceed
     independently.
1200 Notified FIPEFISH. Secured wolf pack frequency.

25 December 1944

1008 Trim dive.
1045 Surfaced.

26 December 1944

     Enroute Guam.

27 December 1944

1500 Trim dive. Checked boat thoroughly for air leaks and noise.
1600 Surfaced. Enroute Guam.

28 December 1944

0130 Contacted our escort DE-26 by SJ radar at 23,000 yards. Proceeded
     Guam in company.
0705 Pilot boarded at Guam.
0751 Moored to APOLLO. Changed time from (-8) to (-10).

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(C): WEATHER

The term "fair" monsoon was a misnomer for this area off the coast of
Hainan during the period November 17 to December 22, 1944. Weather was in
general overcast with force 6 winds and (5) seas from the northeast. The
only exception was a calm period during full moon in early December. Periscope
observations were difficult except when in the trough or heading with the seas.
During the first three weeks in December star sights were obtained 20% of the
time. The sun was notable for its absence. Average temperature for November
was 82.5° F., lowest temperature reached was 74°, highest temperature reached
84°. Sky overcast 60% of the time. For December average temperature was
72.2° F., lowest temperature being 56°, highest temperature reaching 84°. Sky
overcast 90% of the time.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

The set of current in the area off the east coast of Hainan was
practically coincident with the wind and seas from 040° T. The drift varied
with the force of the monsoon increasing to 1.7 knots during sea (5) and
dropping to 0.5 knots with sea (2). The current off the southeast coast of
Hainan set in a WSW direction and the drift increased slightly over that
further out at sea. The following accurate observations of tidal information
were obtained during our stay in the area:

Month | From | To | Mean Posit. | Condition | Set | Drift | Sea
Nov | 1822(H)/19 | 0600(H)/20 | 19-03 N | Surf. | 270 | 1.2 | 4
| | | 112-11 E | | | |
Nov | 1850(H)/20 | 0600(H)/21 | 19-04.5 N | Surf. | 255 | 1.2 | 4-5
| | | 112-34 E | | | |
Nov | 1845(H)/21 | 1715(H)/22 | 18-43 N | Surf. | 265 | 1.2 | 4-5
| | | 112-23 E | Sub. | | |
Nov | 1915(H)/22 | 0615(H)/23 | 19-14 N | Surf. | 270 | 1.3 | 4-5
| | | 112-53 E | | | |
Nov | 2215(H)/24 | 2320(H)/25 | 19-55 N | Surf. | 270 | 0.6 | 2
| | | 112-15 E | | | |
Nov | 0600(H)/26 | 2230(H)/26 | 19-37 N | Surf. | 270 | 0.5 | 2
| | | 113-28 E | Sub. | | |
Nov | 0600(H)/28 | 1844(H)/28 | 19-00 N | Surf. | 320 | 0.3 | 2
| | | 112-25 E | Sub. | | |
Nov | 1848(H)/28 | 0600(H)/29 | 18-37 N | Surf. | 310 | 0.6 | 3
| | | 112-10 E | Sub. | | |
Dec | 2146(H)/1 | 0600(H)/2 | 18-21 N | Surf. | 220 | 1.3 | 4-5
| | | 110-43 E | | | |
Dec | 0600(H)/2 | 1915(H)/2 | 18-20 N | Sub. | 240 | 1.8 | 5
| | | 110-43 E | | | |
Dec | 1250(H)/9 | 1235(H)/10 | 17-37 N | Sub | 223 | 1.7 | 5
| | | 110-00 E | Surf. | | |

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Month From To Mean Posit. Condition Set Drift Sea

Dec 2345(H)/16 1850(H)/17 18-25 N Surf. 220 1.6 4-5
110-16 E Sub.
Dec. 1850(H)/18 0015(H)/19 18-29 N Sub. 220 1.3 2
111-09 E Surf.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

No navigational aids were sighted. Radar ranges on Toncon Point and
Tinian Island proved valuable in an area where overcast skies were common.
Present charts show but a few soundings. Fathometer readings proved valuable
in keeping clear of shoal water. The following list of soundings taken when
the ships position was quite accurately known, are submitted:

Position Depth in Fathoms

18-16 N 84
110-48.5 E

18-00.5 N 75
110-19 E

17-56.5 N 85
110-23 E

17-53 N 91
110-26.5 E

17-50 N 113
110-26 E

17-47 N 250
110-35 E

19-01.5 N 135
112-22 E

18-52 N 122
111-31 E

19-32.5 N 180
113-22 E

18-16 N 84
110-48.5 E

18-25 N 76
110-50.5 E

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

Position | Depth in Fathoms
---|---
18-22 N | 80
110-48 E |
18-03 N | 55
110-15.5 E |
19-24 N | 49
111-15 E |
19-22 N | 56
111-18 E |
19-18 N | 59
111-21 E |
19-14.5 N | 61
111-24 E |

(F) SHIP CONTACTS
No. | Time | Lat. | Type(s) | Initial | Est. Course | How Con-
| Date | Long. | | Range | Speed | tacted
---|---|---|---|---|---|---
1 | 0447(I) | 21-17 N | 6 Patrol Ves- | 17,500 | C 165 | Radar
| 16 Nov 44 | 121-53.5 E | sels | | S 8.8 |
2 | 2230(H) | 18-56.7 N | Hospital Ship | 39,500 | C 235 | Radar
| 21 Nov 44 | 112-38 E | | | S 10 |
3 | 1730(H) | 18-16 N | 3 Small Coasters | 23,000 | C 275 | Smoke
| 1 Dec 44 | 110-46 E | | | S 8.8 | Periscope
4 | 0300(H) | 18-36 N | 3 Tankers, 1 AK, | 39,000 | C 220 | Radar
| 3 Dec 44 | 111-27.5E | 4 Patrol Vessels and | | S 13 |
| | | | about 4 unidentified. | | |
5 | 0800(H) | 18-33 N | Freighter | 14,000 | C 262 | Lookout
| 17 Dec 44 | 110-46 E | | | S 10 |

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— page 22 —
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(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| CONTACT NUMBER | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S Date | Nov 7 | Nov 8 | Nov 18 | Nov 18 | Nov 20 | Nov 20 |
| U Time (Zone) | 1051(L) | 1053(L) | 0810(H) | 2030(H) | 1505(H) | 2150(H) |
| B Position: Lat. | 20-10 | 18-51 | 19-49 | 19-32 | 18-59 | 18-51 |
| M Long. | 159-36 | 155-09 | 114-44 | 112-19 | 112-54 | 112-22 |
| A Speed | 14 | 16 | 12.5 | 18 | 12 | 8 |
| R Course | 249 | 255 | 262 | 237 | 000 | 220 |
| I Trim | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. |
| N Minutes Since Last | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| E SD Radar Search | O | O | O | O | O | O |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| A Type | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| I Probable Mission | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. |
| R How Contacted | SD | SD & Lookout | SD | SD | SD | SD |
| C Initial Range | 12 | 15 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 8 |
| R Elevation Angle | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| A Range & Relative | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| F Bearing of Plane | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| T When it Detected | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND |
| S/M | - | - | - | - | - | - |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C Sea: (State (Beau- | 3 | 3 | 4 to 5 | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| O fort) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| O (Direction(Rel) | 150 | 150 | 045 | 180 | 220 | 180 |
| N Visibility (Miles) | 10 | 20 | 10 to 20 | 2 | 5 | 2 |
| D (Height in | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| I Clouds: ( Ft. | 1500 | 2000 | 4000 | 2000 | 1500 | 3000 |
| T (Percent | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| I Overcast) | 30 | 20 | 75 | 60 | 70 | 50 |
| O (Bearing(Rel) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| N Moon: (Angle | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| S (Percent | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Illum | - | - | - | - | - | - |

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol: Gray.

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(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| CONTACT NUMBER | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S Date | Nov 21 | Nov 21 | Nov 22 | Nov 23 | Nov 24 | Nov 27 |
| U Time (Zone) | 1610(H) | 2150(H) | 2200(H) | 0115(H) | 0250(H) | 1150(H) |
| B Position: Lat. | 18-43 | 18-53 | 19-05 | 19-35 | 19-22 | 19-36.5 |
| M Long. | 112-17 | 112-35 | 112-47.5 | 112-54.5 | 113-07 | 113-35 |
| A Speed | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 |
| R Course | 040 | 040 | 220 | 040 | 040 | 130 |
| I Trim | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. |
| N Minutes Since Last | | | | | | |
| E SD Radar Search | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| A Type | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| I Probable Mission | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. |
| R How Contacted | SD | SD | SD | SD | SD | SD |
| C Initial Range | 10 | 14 | 16 | 8 | 12 | 16 |
| R Elevation Angle | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| A Range & Relative | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| F Bearing of Plane | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| T When it Detected S/M | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND | C Sea: (State (Beaufort)) | 4 to 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 2 |
| O (Direction (Rel)) | 000 | 010 | 190 | 010 | 220 | 090 |
| N Visibility (Miles) | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 15 |
| D Clouds: (Height in Ft.) | 3,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 3,000 | 3,000 |
| I (Percent Overcast) | 40 | 40 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 20 |
| T (Bearing (Rel)) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| I Moon: (Angle) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| O (Percent Illum.) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| N | | | | | | |
| S | | | | | | |

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol: Gray.

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(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER
| | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S Date | Nov 28 | Nov 28 | Nov 28 | Nov 28 | Nov 29 | Nov 30 |
| U Time (Zone) | 0215(H) | 0230(H) | 0940(H) | 1315(H) | 1245(H) | 1430(H) |
| B Position: Lat. | 19-36.5 | 19-41 | 19-44 | 19-16 | 18-59 | 18-45 |
| M Long. | 113-20 | 113-15 | 112-48 | 112-30 | 112-10 | 112-06 |
| A Speed | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 |
| R Course | 315 | 315 | 220 | 220 | 130 | 310 |
| I Trim | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. |
| N Minutes Since Last | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1/2 |
| E SD Radar Search | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1/2 |

Number
| | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| A Type | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| I Probable Mission | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. |
| R How Contacted | SD & SJ | SJ | SD | SD | SD | Lookout |
| C Initial Range | 16 | 15 | 14 | 16 | 8 | 8 |
| R Elevation Angle | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| A Range and Relative | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| F Bearing of Plane | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| T When it Detected | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND |
| S/M | | | | | | |

CONDITIONS
| | | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C SEA: | (State (Beau- fort) | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| O | (Direction(Rel) | 090 | 090 | 190 | 190 | 270 | 090 |
| N Visibility | (Miles) | 8 | 8 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| D | (Height in | | | | | | |
| I Clouds: | (Ft. | 3,000 | 3,000 | 2,000 | 2,000 | 3,000 | 3,000 |
| T | (Percent | | | | | | |
| I Overcast | | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| O | (Bearing(Rel) | 270 | 270 | - | - | - | - |
| N Moon: | (Angle | 25° | 24° | - | - | - | - |
| S | (Percent | | | | | | |
| | Illum | 65 | 65 | - | - | - | - |

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol: Gray.

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(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER
| | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S Date | Nov 29 | Nov 30 | Dec 7 | Dec 8 | Dec 9 | Dec 9 |
| U Time ( Zone) | 2055(H) | 2212(H) | 1100(H) | 1515(H) | 1110(H) | 1530(H) |
| B Position: Lat. | 18-48 | 18-21 | 18-40 | 18-38 | 18-32 | 18-10 |
| M Long. | 112-23 | 112-28 | 111-36 | 111-57 | 110-51 | 110-19 |
| A Speed | 12 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| R Course | 265 | 290 | 030 | 200 | 253 | 225 |
| I Trim | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. |
| N Minutes Since Last | | | | | | |
| E SD Radar Search | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |

| | Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A Type | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| I Probable Mission | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. |
| R How Contacted | SD & SJ | SD | SD | SD | SD | SD |
| C Initial Range | 12 | 16 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 12 |
| R Elevation Angle | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| A Range & Relative | | | | | | |
| F Bearing of Plane | | | | | | |
| T When it Detected | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND |
| S/M | (State (Beau- | | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C Sea: ( | fort) | 5 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| O ( Direction(Rel) | 130 | 120 | 015 | 200 | 150 | 180 |
| N Visibility (Miles) | 5 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
| D | (Height in | | | | | | |
| I Clouds: ( | Ft. | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 3,000 | 3,000 |
| T | (Percent | | | | | | |
| I | Overcast | 80 | 10 | 95 | 95 | 100 | 100 |
| O | (Bearing(Rel) | - | 270 | - | - | - | - |
| N Moon: (Angle | - | 60 | - | - | - | - |
| S | (Percent | | | | | | |
| | Illum. | 100 | - | - | - | - | - |

Type of S/M camouflage on this patrol: Gray

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(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| CONTACT NUMBER | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S Date | Dec 11 | Dec 11 | Dec 14 | Dec 15 | Dec 15 | Dec 16 |
| U Time (Zone) | 0945(H) | 1315(H) | 1317(H) | 1117(H) | 1258(H) | 1140(H) |
| B Position: Lat. | 19-07 | 19-00 | 19-24 | 17-28 | 17-30 | 18-03 |
| M Long. | 111-42 | 111-48 | 112-03 | 110-36 | 110-34 | 110-30 |
| A Speed | 8 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| R Course | 135 | 145 | 225 | 300 | 120 | 310 |
| I Trim | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. |
| N Minutes Since Last | | | | | | |
| E SD Radar Search | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| A Type | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| I Probable Mission | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. |
| R How Contacted | SD | SD | SD | SD | SD | SD |
| C Initial Range | 8 | 9 | 10 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
| R Elevation Angle | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| A Range and Relative | | | | | | |
| F Bearing of Plane | | | | | | |
| T When it Detected | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND |
| S/M | (State (Beau- | | | | | | |
| C Sea: ( fort) | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 6 |
| O (Direction(Rel) | 270 | 260 | 180 | 100 | 260 | 090 |
| N Visibility (Miles) | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 |
| D (Height in | | | | | | |
| I Clouds: ( Ft. | 2,500 | 2,500 | 3,000 | 3,000 | 3,000 | 4,000 |
| T (Percent | | | | | | |
| I Overcast | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
| O (Bearing(Rel) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| N Moon: (Angle | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| S (Percent | | | | | | |
| Illum | - | - | - | - | - | - |

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol: Gray.

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(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36
---|---|---|---|---|---|---
S Date | Dec 18 | Dec 18 | Dec 21 | Dec 22 | Dec 23 | Dec 23
U Time (Zone) | 1055(H) | 1423(H) | 2000(H) | 1105(H) | 1430(H) | 2100(H)
B Position: Lat. | 19-12 | 19-13 | 19-23 | 19-44 | 20-50 | 21-12
M Long. | 111-32 | 111-30 | 111-47 | 114-04 | 119-18 | 120-54
A Speed | 7 | 8 | 8 | 12 | 15 | 16
R Course | 300 | 220 | 050 | 120 | 082 | 077
I Trim | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf. | Surf.
N Minutes Since Last | | | | | |
E SD Radar Search | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0
---
Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1
A Type | - | - | - | - | - | -
I Probable Mission | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat. | Pat.
R How Contacted | SD | SD | SD | SD | SD | SJ
C Initial Range | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 15
R Elevation Angle | - | - | - | - | - | -
A Range and Relative | - | - | - | - | - | -
F Bearing of Plane | - | - | - | - | - | -
T When it Detected S/M | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND
---
C Sea: (State (Beau- | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 3
O fort)) | | | | | |
N (Direction(Rel)) | 090 | 180 | 000 | 270 | 320 | 320
D Visibility (Miles) | 6 | 8 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 7
I (Height in | | | | | |
T Clouds: (Ft. | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 3,000
I (Percent | | | | | |
O Overcast | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 90
N (Bearing (Rel)) | - | - | - | - | - | 130
S Moon: (Angle | - | - | - | - | - | 40
(Percent | | | | | |
Illum | - | - | - | - | - | 50

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol: Gray.

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

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER             37         38
S Date                     Dec 24     Dec 24
U Time (Zone)              0505(H)    1002(H)
B Position: Lat.           21-19      21-15
M           Long           123-03     124-20
A Speed                    16         16
R Course                   091        091
I Trim                     Surf.      Surf.
N Minutes Since Last       0          0
E SD Radar Search          1          1
  Number
A Type
I Probable Mission         Pat.       Pat.
R How Contacted            SD         SD
C Initial Range            20         14
R Elevation Angle
A Range & Relative
F Bearing of Plane
T When it Detected         ND         ND
  S/M

C (State (Beau-             3          3
O Sea:( fort)
N (Direction(Rel)           320        320
D Visibility (Miles)       4          7
I (Height in
T Clouds:( Ft.             3,000      3,000
I (Percent
O Overcast                 95         100
N (Bearing(Rel)            -          -
S Moon:(Angle              -          -
  (Percent                 -          -
  Illum.

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol: Gray.

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C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. SEA CAT TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 1
Time: 1937(H) Date: 1 December 1944 Lat. 18-15 N. Long. 110-46 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Three small coasters, contacted by smoke on horizon. (EC)
Ship(s) Sunk: None.
Ship(s) Damaged or
Probably Sunk: None
Damage Determined by: None.
Target Draft: 8' Course: 275 Speed: 8.8 Range: 2,500 yards (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed: 12 Course: 220 Depth: Surface Angle: 0 (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Surface Radar with TBT bearings.
Tubes Fired: | #3 | #4
Track Angle | 120 S | 120 S
Gyro Angle: | 5°20' R | 5°30' R
Depth Set | 3' | 3'
Power: | High | High
Hit or Miss | Miss | Miss
Erratic: |
(Yes or No) | Possibly. TDC checked perfectly target straight course.
| Slow speed. See remarks.

Mark Torpedo: | 18-1 | 18-1
Serial No. | 56446 | 56548
Mark Exploder: | 8-5 | 8-5
Serial No. | 10571 | 10381
Actuation Set: | Contact | Contact
Actuation Actual: | --- | ---
Mark Warhead: | 18-2 | 18-2
Serial No. | 1552 | 4145
Explosive: | TPX | TPX
Firing Interval: | 10 sec.
Type Spread: | ½° R | ½° L
Sea Conditions: | (2)
Overhaul Activity: Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks: One torpedo was seen to broach 500 yards from submarine.

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

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. SEA CAT TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL NO. 1
Time: 0440(H) Date: 3 December 1944 Lat. 18-37 N. Long. 111-33 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Tanker, Genyo Maru Class 10,020. Page 277, ONI 208-J (EC)
Ship(s) Sunk: One.
Ship(s) Damaged or --
Probably Sunk: --
Damage Determined by: One observed hit, one timed hit, breaking up noises
                     and absence of ship in convoy one hour later.
Target Draft: About 27' Course: 225. Speed: 13. Range: 700 yds.(at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed: 11. Course: 135. Depth: 0. Angle: 0 (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Radar Surface with TBT bearings for firing.
Tubes Fired: | #3 | #4
Track Angle: | 92 S | 92 S
Gyro Angle: | 010°.5 R | 010°.5 R.
Depth Set: | 10' | 10'
Power: | --- | ---
Hit or Miss: | Hit | Hit
Erratic: | |
(Yes or No) | No | No
Mark Torpedo: | 18-1 | 18-1
Serial No. | 56000 | 57049
Mark Exploder: | 8-5 | 8-5
Serial No. | 9638 | 10400
Actuation Set: | Contact | Contact
Actuation Actual | --- | ---
Mark Warhead: | 18-2 | 18-2
Serial No. | 4173 | 2780
Explosive: | TPX | TPX
Firing Interval: | 10 sec. | 10 sec.
Type Spread: | 2° L. | 2° R
Sea Conditions: (5)
Overhaul Activity: Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks: Fired in trough of heavy seas.

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

U.S.S. SEA CAT TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 PATROL NO. 1
Time: 2050(H) Date: 3 December 1944 Lat. 17-40 N. Long. 111-00 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Tanker, Genota Maru Type 8,000. Page 281 ONI 208-J (EC)
Ship(s) Sunk: None.
Ship(s) Damaged or
Probably Sunk: None.
Damage Determined by: - - -
Target Draft: 20' Course: 245 Speed: 3.75 Range: 3,400 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed: 11 Course: 345 Depth: 0 Angle: 0 (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Radar Surface with TBT Bearings.
Tubes Fired: #1 #2 #3 #4
Track Angle: 110 P 110 P 110 P 110 P
Gyro Angle: 012°.5 012° 012°.5 012°.5
Depth Set: 10' 10' 10' 10'
Power: High High High High
Hit or Miss Miss Miss Miss Miss
Erratic: - - - -
(Yes or No)
Mark Torpedo: 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 56068 56067 55502 56844
Mark Exploder 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5
Serial No. 9599 10328 10494 10293
Actuation Set: Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual - - - -
Mark Warhead 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 1407 2636 4201 4077
Explosive: TPX TPX TPX TPX
Firing Interval: 10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec.
Type Spread: 3/8 L 1 L 3/8 R 1 R
Sea Conditions: (6)
Overhaul Activity: Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks: Fired in trough of heavy seas. Probable erratic torpedo performance
due to heavy seas.

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

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. SEA CAT TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4 PATROL NO. 1
Time: 2140(H) Date: 3 December 1944 Lat. 17-38 N. Long. 110-58 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Tanker, Genota Maru Type. 8000 Page 281 ONI208-J (EC)
Ship(s) Sunk: None.
Ship(s) Damaged or
Probably Sunk: None.
Damage Determined by: ---
Target Draft Course: 235 Speed: 3.5 Range: 2,500 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed: 10 Course: 015 Depth: 0 Angle: 0 (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Radar Surface with TBT Bearings.
Tubes Fired: #3 #4
Track Angle: 80 P 80 P
Gyro Angle: 008.5 008.5
Depth Set: 10' 10'
Power: High High
Hit or Miss Miss Miss
Erratic:
(Yes or No) Unknown Unknown
Mark Torpedo 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 56908 56220
Mark Exploder 8-5 8-5
Serial No. 10373 9735
Actuation Set: Contact Contact
Actuation Actual: --- ---
Mark Warhead 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 4256 1376
Explosive: TPX TPX
Firing Interval: 10 sec. 10 sec.
Type Spread: 3/4 L 3/4 R
Sea Conditions: (6)
Overhaul Activity: Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks: Torpedoes fired down trough of sea. Probable erratic torpedo
performance due to heavy seas.

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

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. SEA CAT TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5 PATROL NO. 1
Time: 0131(R) Date: 4 December 1944. Lat. 17-40 N. Long. 110-42 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Tanker, Genota Maru Type 8000 Page 281 ONI 208-J (EC)
Ship(s) Sunk: One
Ship(s) Damaged or
Probably Sunk: ---
Damage Determined by: Sight and Radar.
Target Draft: About 25' Course: 242 Speed: 3 Range: 2,100 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed: 11 Course: 170 Depth: 0 Angle: 0 (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack: Radar Surface.
Tubes Fired: #1 #2 #5 #6
Track Angle: 120 S 120 S 120 S 120 S
Gyro Angle: 352.5 355.5 354 352.5
Depth Set: 15' 15' 15' 15'
Power: Nigh High High High
Hit or Miss: Hit Miss Miss Hit
Erratic:
(Yes or No)
Mark Torpedo: 18-1 18-1 18-1 18-1
Serial No. 56142 56692 55821 56942
Mark Exploder: 8-5 8-5 8-5 8-5
Serial No. 10264 10470 10511 10415
Actuation Set: Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual:
Mark Warhead: 18-2 18-2 18-2 18-2
Serial No. 2858 4144 4178 4193
Explosive: TPX TPX TPX TPX
Firing Interval: 10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec. 10 sec.
Type Spread: 1° R 1° L 3° R 3° L
Sea Conditions: (5)
Overhaul Activity: Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Remarks: Two timed hits. Ship listed badly, Radar pip began to get smaller
          and fuzzy. Fired with sea. Lost pip less than 10,000.

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(I) MINES
One drifting mine was sighted on 8 December 1944, in Lat. 18-19 N, Long.
110-33 E. Rough seas foiled attempts to blow up mine with 20 mm and 40 mm
gun fire. Succeeded in shooting off at least two horns. No other evidence
of mines or mining activity was observed.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS
During the attack on 3 December 1944, on a tanker in convoy, heavy fire
was received from light caliber guns on the tanker's stern. The depth charging
which followed consisted of twenty six charges, none of which were close. No
new A/S measures were encountered. The escorts were not equipped with radar.
There was no evidence of planes homing on SD or SJ radar transmissions.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE
(1) Bendix Log: The Bendix Log was out of commission approximately five
days during the first part of the patrol. It is not considered an efficient
unit as it requires constant attention. The following parts were replaced
during the patrol: (a) Driving Motor (Drawing No. 8000-2), (b) Center
Bellows Assembly, (c) Upper Bellows Assembly (Drawing No. 14325), (d) Lower
Bellows Assembly (Drawing No. 14325).
(2) Master Gyro: Bearing trouble was encountered throughout the patrol
and the spare bearings provided were not sufficient to meet the needs. Both
North Rotor bearings were replaced and it was necessary to use one of these
defective bearings for a replacement in the South Rotor which subsequently
failed. A North Rotor bearing again failed and this one was replaced by a
bearing made up of all the usable parts of the remaining defective bearings.
Chief Electrician's Mate C.W. HAYES, USN showed great ingenuity in keeping
the gyro operating until our arrival in port. It is believed that the bearing
trouble was due to poor material or poor workmanship on the roller bearings.
(3) Shafts: A scraping noise in the port shaft developed at two thirds
speed surface and submerged. Cause of this noise was not determined.
(4) SJ Radar: Discussed in Radar Section.
(5) JP Sound Gear: Discussed in Sound Gear Section.
(6) Ventilation: The ventilation system should be redesigned. In rough
weather water flows into the boat. It is particularly hazardous in the forward
engine room as it streams directly against the gauge board.
(7) Battle Announcing System: Although constantly worked on through the
patrol, signals from the bridge were weak on both 1MC and 7MC systems. The
bridge reproducers flooded out frequently. Also each voice coil opened up and
it was necessary to remove one turn from each. The one spare provided was not
adequate.

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CONFIDENTIAL

(L) RADIO

(1) Submarine Fox Schedules: Reception on NPM "P" was good
throughout the patrol, in that all serials were received on one schedule or
another.
    The most useful transmission for the area was the 6 mc. band. The
13,655 kc. transmission could not be heard in sufficient strength to copy.
However, when returning from the patrol area at a point approximately 300
miles west of Bashi Channel, the 13 mc. band opened up and reception became
fair to good. An audio amplifier and speaker into which is fed the receiver
output provides additional audio amplification and has made it possible to
copy schedules which would otherwise have been unreadable.
    The frequencies used at different periods are given in tabular form
below with the attendant conditions noted. Times are Zebra.

Time         Frequency Used         Remarks
0000 - 0600  13655                  Very weak.
0600 - 0700  13655                  Very weak.
0700 - 0800  9090 or 6045           Weak.
0800 - 1000  6045                   Weak.
1000 - 1100  6045                   Fair.
1100 - 1600  6045                   Good (jamming reported usually between
                                    1100 - 1130).
1600 - 1630  6045                   Fair (fades almost completely for a short
                                    time at 1615).
1630 - 1800  6045                   Very good.
1800 - 1945  6045 or 4515           Both good - 6045 has less noise.
1945 - 0000  6045 and 9090          Shortly after the beginning of this period
                                    6045 fades out completely. 9090 kc. is
                                    readable until about 2055. From this time
                                    on all bands are out.

(2) Wolf Pack Communications: A continuous watch was maintained on the
wolf pack frequencies except during the periods of the Radio Chungking (NKN)
schedules. Reception was very good on all four pack frequencies at all times
and no jamming was experienced. Other packs were heard from time to time with
relatively good signal strength.
(3) Radio Chungking (NKN) Schedules: China fox was copied between the
hours 0200 - 0230, 1000 - 1030, 1800 - 1830. Reception was very good. It
would be to the submarines advantage however if the 1000 Z schedule was
shifted to 1100 Z since surfacing during daylight when working close inshore
is at times dangerous if not entirely impracticable.

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

(4) Ships to Shore Transmissions: Upon leaving the area at
approximately 1030 Z, 22 December 1944, we unsuccessfully attempted to
raise NPM on both 4235 and 8470 kcs. The traffic was finally cleared through
NKN. This station receipted for our message at 1041 Z and we received the
receipt on the NPM fox schedule at 1145 Z.

(5) Radio Equipment Defects: Of the communication gear, only the TBL-12
gave us difficulty. Twice during the patrol the contacts on the speed
regulator of the TBL motor-generator rendered it inoperative. It was remedied
the first time by cleaning the contacts. When it recurred later it was
necessary to completely remove this unit and file down the contacts. The
distance between contacts is 1/64 inches and any arcing, dust, or burrs will
render the speed regulator inoperative.
On 7 December 1944, the transmitter was drenched with salt water from
the ventilation supply duct in the radio shack. This caused the equipment to
start up automatically accompanied by some arcs and sparks and a wisp or two
of smoke. The power to it was immediately cut and the equipment was given
a complete washing down with fresh water. After drying out it was thoroughly
checked and found to be in good operating condition except for one ground.
This was traced to a faulty start-stop switch (S40) which was replaced and
the TBL-12 seems none the worse for its experience.

(M) RADAR

(1) SD: The SD radar operated perfectly during the patrol. It was
operated continuously while on the surface using a keying interval of 45
seconds at night and 30 seconds during daylight. Computation based on ranges
when land of known height was picked up proved that the instrument is capable
of contacting objects of slightly less than 1° elevation.
Troubles encountered were inconsequential. The 9001's were replaced
on two occasions. The biggest difficulty occurred when the equipment went out
of focus and it was found that control on the front panel was lost on both
focus and intensity. When this circuit was checked with an ohmmeter a resistor
(R270) was found to be open. Upon replacing this, conditions again became
normal. The same difficulty occurred three days later and since we had no more
spares for this circuit component we used another resistor fairly close to it
in value. Operation was again very good. The above work was accomplished
during normal submergence and required about three hours.

(2) SJ: The SJ radar had given us very little trouble from May 16th until
the second day out of Pearl Harbor. From then on it has been a continuous
source of trouble. Its maximum ranges on this patrol have been: 40,000 yards
on a hospital ship, 39,000 yards on a convoy and 17,000 yards on one of our
own submarines. These ranges are considered excellent but constant attention
is required to keep it operating in this manner.

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

While enroute Pearl to Midway a leak developed above the SJ feeder
assembly where it comes through the pressure hull in the conning tower.
The packing was replaced at Midway and the trouble eliminated.
While enroute from Pearl to Midway the sensitivity became very low.
Before reaching Midway the magnetron was replaced and subsequently the
T-R tube, crystal, and all other tubes in the transmitter-receiver unit in
addition to a tune-up job. All to no avail.
The field engineer was contacted at Midway. He pronounced the gear normal
in every way but we knew this was not the case. The same condition prevailed
when we tied up alongside the U.S.S. FULTON at Saipan although the set was
worked on continuously during transit. During our short stay at Saipan the
radar technicians from the FULTON did their best and worked on it continuously
for about 24 hours. They finally gave up admitting they could find no cause
for the trouble. After we left Saipan we found we could, by constantly
changing the 721-A T-R tubes, keep the sensitivity up to normal most of the time.
From this point on we were certain the trouble lay in the T-R cavity. We
eventually ran out of new T-R tubes and toward the end of the patrol began to
reuse the ones previously replaced. The actual trouble still prevails.
As soon as we reached our area the SJ became entirely inoperative
exhibiting the following symptoms: Excessive high voltage current, low high
voltage and a SD-21 modulator tube the plate of which would become cherry red
if the gear was left on for a few seconds. We immediately suspected a lack of
proper bias on the modulator tube which proved to be true. This further was
traced to an improper wave form from the modulation generator. Upon checking
all the wave forms throughout the modulation generator, it was established that
all forms were incorrect except those on V(1) and pin 4 of V(2). The trouble
was then localized to the circuit components associated with the 150 volt
supply from the bias regulator. Finally, after finding all resistors in this
circuit as well as the output of the bias regulator to be normal, the mica
condensers were removed from the circuit and tested individually with an
ohmmeter. Under this test C (12) read 200,000 ohms. Replaced this condenser
and all wave forms checked normal on the oscillograph but each had, superimposed,
a parasitic oscillation. The parasitic was traced to a ground on the center top
of the variable knocker control.
The equipment operated very well for the next 24 hours with high
sensitivity. After 24 hours it became intermittently inoperative. When
inoperative it exhibited excessive high-voltage and low high-voltage current.
Changing the 5D21 cleared this and again the gear showed good sensitivity for
about 12 hours. After this period the gear was again inoperative. It was
observed that the regulator tubes (VR150/30's) were not lit. C-22A in the
bias regulator was found shorted. R-44 in the PPI unit was also changed to
eliminate a large dead spot in the center of the PPI.
From this time on constant adjustment was required to keep sensitivity at
a high level. The earlier trouble with the T-R section still exists. It is
believed that an entirely new T-R section should be installed in the transmitter-
receiver unit.

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

The SJ proved very effective for exchanging recognition signals with
other boats of the pack and for short range communications.
The SJ is operated continuously day and night while on the surface
using the following search plan: Two minutes on the 8,000 yard scale, five
minutes on the 40,000 yard range, two minutes on the 80,000 yard scale all
made at maximum speed of antenna rotation while watching the PPI; followed
by one revolution in handposition for one minute while watching the A scope.
The radar operating personnel are all well trained. An intensive
training program was carried out in the past which has increased the "job
interest" of how the gear operates. All available and pertinent material is
accessible to each operator. Tests were periodically given to the men, to
serve as an indication to themselves how well they were utilizing the
available lectures and printed material. The radar technicians are excellent.
(3) BN-ABK: Equipment was secured before entering area.
(4) APR-SPA: This equipment required little maintenance. Trouble was
confined to one bad 2X2 which was replaced and a ground in the connector on the
power cable at the APR. The latter item did not effect the operation of the
gear. It was caused by the copper serving wire on the cable's braided shield
cutting through the rubber insulation in one power lead.
The equipment is located close to the SD and is guarded by the SD operator
who makes a continuous sweep during the period when the SD is off the air. It
is manned continuously while on the surface.
On two occasions APR contacts were made prior to plane contacts on the
SD. In all three instances the characteristics of the intercepted airborne
radar equipment were: Frequency, 180 mcs., P.R.F., 225, pulse length, 10
microseconds, steady signal.
On 3 December 1944, a radar signal probably land based on Hainan was
picked up on 280 mcs. with a P.R.F. of 500 with irregular rotation.
Enroute from Midway to Saipan a signal was picked up on 115 mcs., P.R.F.
500, pulse length 10 microseconds which seemed to be located on Wake Island.
We had this signal three consecutive nights while on that portion of our track
closest to Wake. It began at dark and secured at daylight. Antenna rotation
was irregular.

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

(1) NM: The fathometer was used to good advantage.
(2) WCA-2: From depths over 100 feet a "clacking" noise is made by the
gears of the QC/JK training (hand) unit. It would seem as though the gears
are not meshing properly. The hand training unit was raised slightly and the
noise was reduced but not eliminated. The same condition exists on the QB
shaft at depths over 300 feet.
Cable trouble was experienced on the QB gear necessitating a cable repair
job.

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

(2) Food: The food was uniformly good for the entire patrol.
(3) Habitability: Habitability was very good, due mainly to the recent
addition of the forward battery air conditioning unit and the booster blower
in the control room.

(Q) PERSONNEL

Officers and crew were exceptionally capable and cooperative. Personnel
acted and reacted as an experienced war unit throughout the entire patrol.
This in spite of the fact that 54 men and 5 officers were experiencing their
first taste of submarine warfare. Due to the confidence of the crew in them-
selves and their boat, this sixty two day patrol passed with no strain.
There are now but 4 unqualified men on board, all of whom were assigned
to the ship just prior to the patrol. No leniency was shown and it is
guaranteed that every man qualified was worthy of that signal honor.
It is intended to replace but three men:- one chief for reasons of health;
one chief who is in excess and will be replaced by a lower rating; and one
very poor cook. All officers will be retained.

(a) Number of men on board - 75
(b) Qualified at start - 41
(c) Number of unqualified
men making first patrol - 34
(d) Qualified at end - 71
(e) Number of men advanced
in rating during patrol - 0
Note: There being no vacancies
there were no advancements.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED

Pearl Harbor to Area 6274 miles 87,340 gals.
In Area 6678 miles 54,150 gals.
Area to Guam 2008 miles 82,862 gals.

(S) DURATION

Days enroute Pearl Harbor to Area - 21
Days in Area - 35
Days enroute Area to Guam - 6
Days submerged - 13.2

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

Torpedoes         Fuel         Provisions         Personnel Factor
Number            Gals.        Days               Days

10                5,000        30                 10

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

(3) JP-2: The sonic listening gear operated very well during the patrol
and was used to check our own ship's noises.
The main difficulty which has been experienced in this gear from the
beginning is a shorting of the mike cable due to the cable twisting at the
lower packing. There seems to be no way to remedy this trouble unless the
packing arrangement is redesigned at the bottom of the shaft. Another
weakness of this gear is the 3-38 variable-ballast tubes which have to be
replaced frequently due to an inherent structural weakness.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS

The following tabulation shows the density layers encountered:

| G.C.T. Time | Date | Lat. | Long. | Depth Isothermal | Temp. | Depth Bottom of Gradient | Temp. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 10/9/44 | 21-08 N | 158-00 W | 200 ft. | 78 | 400 ft. | 71 |
| 2000 | 10/30/44 | 26-30 N | 166-40 W | 210 ft. | 76 | 450 ft. | 64 |
| 0430 | 11/3/44 | 27-19 N | 179-48 W | 40 ft. | 73 | 410 ft. | 58 |
| 2200 | 11/3/44 | 25-53 N | 176-52 E | 190 ft. | 76 | 205 ft. | 70* |
| 2200 | 11/4/44 | 24-02 N | 170-15 E | 190 ft. | 78 | 410 ft. | 65 |
| 0500 | 11/6/44 | 21-31 N | 163-19 E | 185 ft. | 80 | 415 ft. | 65* |
| 0000 | 11/7/44 | 20-20 N | 160-00 E | 175 ft. | 80 | 440 ft. | 66 |
| 0000 | 11/8/44 | 18-50 N | 155-00 E | 220 ft. | 82 | 455 ft. | 74* |
| 0200 | 11/20/44 | 19-00 N | 112-10 E | 190 ft. | 80 | 290 ft. | 71* |
| 0000 | 11/21/44 | 18-30 N | 111-40 E | 120 ft. | 80 | 390 ft. | 64* |
| 2300 | 11/21/44 | 19-03 N | 113-00 E | 200 ft. | 80 | 290 ft. | 71* |
| 2300 | 11/30/44 | 18-24 N | 110-46 E | 90 ft. | 80 | 290 ft. | 73* |

* Indicates bottom of gradient was not reached.
The Bathythermograph is used to a good advantage in compensating the boat.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY

(1) Health: The general health of officers and men was excellent. There
was no sickness of any type throughout the entire patrol. No one suffered from
even a slight cold. Vitamins were liberally used. There were two injuries:-
Lieutenant E.V. NIEMEYER, Jr., USNR received a lacerated wound on his left thigh
clearing the bridge on a quick dive. The wound was closed with sutures and the
officer placed on the sick list for 12 days. He was on light duty for a short
time thereafter because of muscular soreness. HANSEN, M.E., RM1c, USN received
an amputation, traumatic, 3rd finger left hand, when he caught his finger
between the opening lever and the door of the communication office safe. The
free ends of the skin were drawn together, as nearly as possible, with sutures.
He was on light duty for two days until pain subsided.

-38-

— page 41 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

Limiting factor this patrol: Provisions of operation order.

(U) RADAR AND RADAR COUNTER MEASURES
Escorts were not equipped with radar and there was no indication of
homing on our SJ or SD transmissions.

(V) REMARKS.
This was the first wolf pack operation engaged in by this commanding
officer. The group functioned with facility and effectiveness. It is
thoroughly agreed that the day of the "lone wolf" is rightfully ended.

-39-

— page 42 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION TWO EIGHTY TWO
c/o Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, Calif.

FB5-282/A16-3
Serial (041)
30 December, 1944.

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to:
CO SEA CAT (SS399) Ltr
SS399/A16-3, serial 011
dated 28 December, 1944.

From: The Commander Submarine Division TWO EIGHTY TWO.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY EIGHT.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

1. The First War Patrol of the SEA CAT was conducted in
western part of the South China Sea in the vicinity of Hainan
Island. SEA CAT was part of a coordinated attack group under the
command of Captain F.W. FENNO. The patrol extended over a period
of sixty-two days, thirty-five of which were spent in the area.
There were five ship contacts.

2. The first was a night contact with a small coastal steam-
er of about 1500 tons and five small patrol vessels. None of these
vessels were considered worthy of torpedo attack and the commanding
officer wisely avoided them.

3. Contact number two was with a properly lighted hospital
ship.

4. Contact number three was with a group of three small
coastal vessels and it was developed into attack #1. Two mark 18-2
torpedoes were fired at the largest ship. A three foot depth set-
ting and spread 1/2° right and 1/2° left of the point of aim were
used. No hits resulted from what was considered a cold set-up on a
target steering a steady course. The torpedo spread may have
produced a hit. The Division Commander believes that except in
cases of anchored or stopped targets three torpedoes in a spread is
the minimum that will take care of normal fire-control inaccuracies
and possible erratic torpedo performance. This is particularly so
at the ranges from which night surface attacks are usually launched.

5. The fourth contact was made by radar at the phenomenal
range of 38,000 yards. The position of this convoy of three AO one
AK four patrol vessels and four unidentified was reported two hours
and twenty minutes earlier by SEA RAVEN another member of the pack.

-1-

— page 44 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY-EIGHT

FC5-28/A16-3                                        Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial: #02                                         San Francisco, California,
                                                    30 December 1944.
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO SEA CAT (SS399) conf.
ltr. SS399/A16-3, ser. 011
dated 28 December 1944.

From: The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-EIGHT.
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Task Group SEVENTEEN POINT TEN.
      (2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
      (3) The Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol Number ONE.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the Commander Submarine
Division TWO EIGHTY TWO.

2. The SEA CAT's experience, four days out of Midway enroute patrol,
of having a torpedo broach 30° on her starboard bow at a distance of 250 yards
emphasizes the vital importance of submarines zig-zagging day and night in all
waters.

3. In spite of frequent material casualties, the performance of the
SJ in picking up a single ship at 40,000, a convoy at 39,000 and a submarine at
17,000 yards is considered remarkable. Credit is due the radar technicians for
their efficient trouble shooting. Every effort will be made during this refit
to locate and correct the cause of these material failures. The ship states that
bow buoyancy vents cannot be operated by power below 300 feet. No information is
available as to whether or not this defect is inherent in these boats but an in-
vestigation will be made to determine if the cause is other than distortion of
the ship's structure.

4. The SEA CAT will be refitted by Division 281 relief crew and
APOLLO. This will be APOLLO's first refit job and the prevailing spirit of
eager anticipation displayed by all hands on this new tender forecasts an ex-
cellent job.

5. The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding Officer,
officers and crew on the successful completion of the SEA CAT's first war patrol,
during which the following damage is considered to have been inflicted upon the
enemy:

PROBABLY SUNK

1 Tanker, GENYO MARU cl. (EU) 10,000 tons
1 Tanker, GENOTA MARU cl. (EU) 8,000 tons
(Previously damaged by SEA RAVEN)

[SIGNATURE: J. M. WILL.]

— page 45 —
A16-3
Serial: 01

CONFIDENTIAL

SUBMARINE ADVANCED BASE
Navy No. 926

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
1 January 1945.

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
CO SEA CAT (SS399) conf.
ltr. SS399/A16-3, ser. 011
dated 28 December 1944.

From: The Commander Submarine Advanced Base, Navy No. 926.
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(2) The Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

1. Forwarded.

[SIGNATURE: G. L. Russell]
G. L. RUSSELL.

— page 46 —
FF12-10/A16-3(15) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET [HANDWRITTEN: mr B]
[HANDWRITTEN: 3ND Copy]
Serial 0123 Care of Fleet Post Office;
San Francisco, California,
14 January 1945.

[UNDERLINED: CONFIDENTIAL] [STAMP: NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE DESTROYED PRIOR TO ENTERING PATROL FILES]
[UNDERLINED: FOURTH ENDORSEMENT] [STAMP: Office of the Chief of Naval Operations FLEET MAINTENANCE]
SEA CAT Report of [STAMP: RECEIVED 24 JAN 1945]
First War Patrol. [STAMP: ROOM 2055]

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 637 [STAMP: NAVY DEPARTMENT RECEIVED]
U.S.S. SEA CAT - FIRST WAR PATROL [STAMP: ROUTE TO: 23 JAN 1945]
[STAMP: 151819]
From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet. [HANDWRITTEN: 23/255-99]
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of First War Patrol [HANDWRITTEN: Cy. 3,45 act]
(26 October to 28 December, 1944).

1. The first war patrol of the SEA CAT, under the com-
mand of Commander R. R. McGregor, U.S. Navy, was conducted in South
China Sea Areas in the vicinity of Hainan. The SEA CAT along with
the U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS196), the U.S.S. PIPEFISH (SS388), and the
U.S.S. PAMPANITO (SS383); formed a coordinated attack group with
Captain F. W. Fenno, Jr., U.S. Navy, as the group commander.

2. The SEA CAT on her first war patrol maintained excel-
lent area coverage and despite most adverse weather conditions deliv-
ered five aggressive torpedo attacks, two of which were successful.
It is estimated that the two hits in a large GENYO MARU Type tanker,
in the 700 yard range, aggressive second attack with a (5) sea condi-
tion at the time sank her. It is also estimated that the two hits
in the large tanker, Attack No. 5, which had been previously damaged
by the SEARAVEN, finished her.

3. Award of the Submarine Combat Insignia for this pa-
trol is authorized.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congra-
tulates the commanding officer, officers, and crew of the SEA CAT for
this aggressive and successful first war patrol. The SEA CAT is cre-
dited with having inflicted the following damage upon the enemy during
this patrol:

[UNDERLINED: S U N K]

1 - Large AO (GENYO MARU Type) (EC) - 10,000 tons (Attack No. 2)
1/2* - Large AO (GENYO MARU Type
or GINYO MARU Type) (EC) - 5,000 tons (Attack No. 5)*
TOTAL SUNK 15,000 tons

[HANDWRITTEN: 30*] Note: Other one-half credit for sinking this tanker is credited
to the SEARAVEN in her thirteenth war patrol.

Authentication & distribution C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.
on following page.
- 1 -

— page 49 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)
SS399/A12
Serial 01
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
24 March, 1945

From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Division THIRTY-ONE.
     (2) The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY-TWO.
     (3) The Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.
     (4) The Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

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

1. Enclosure (A), covering the SECOND war patrol of this
vessel conducted in the East China Sea during the period 1 February, 1945
to 24 March, 1945, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: R. H. Bowers]
R. H. BOWERS.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED--ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP---09B91C DATE 11/1/21]

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 115688]

— page 50 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
TWO.

(A) PROLOGUE

SEA CAT arrived Guam from First War Patrol on 29 December, 1944
and was assigned to CSS-28, U.S.S. APOLLO and CSD-281 for normal refit,
while the officers and crew recuperated at Camp Dealey. Major items of
the refit were: (a) the sealing of openings in cell tops of main
storage battery; and, (b) correction of loss of vacuum and rotor
bearing trouble in master gyro compass. The former is the subject of
separate correspondence. The latter was corrected by APOLLO.
On 8 January, 1945, Commander R.R. McGREGOR, U.S.N. was relieved
as Commanding Officer by Lieutenant Commander R.H. BOWERS, U.S.N.
The refit was more than satisfactory, a fact considered to be
significant as SEA CAT had the privilege of being the first submarine
to be overhauled by the newly commissioned APOLLO. Of all SEA CAT
officers experienced in war patrols, none has ever returned after a
rest period to find his ship so scrupulously clean, tidy and shipshape.
Commencing 16 January, 1945, SEA CAT received the eight day train-
ing period prescribed for new commanding officers. Further training
in the form of coordinated attack was conducted in company with U.S.S.
SEGUNDO and RAZORBACK on 29 and 30 January.
Training was excellent throughout as a smooth working training
set-up performed smartly and efficiently. A total of 10 mark 18 mod.
O exercise torpedoes prepared by APOLLO was fired. All ran hot and
straight, but one, unfortunately, blew and then sank before recovery
was possible.
Readiness for sea, 1 February, 1945 as Task Unit 17.24.2 in
Coordinated Attack Group 17.24 with U.S.S. SEGUNDO and RAZORBACK,
Commander J.D. FULP, U.S.N., in SEGUNDO, Group Commander.

(B) NARRATIVE

1 February, 1945

1630 K Under way from nest alongside U.S.S. APOLLO, Guam, Marianas
Islands, in accordance with Commander Task Force Seventeen
Operation Order No. 35-45 for Second War Patrol. The
following officers and chief petty officers on board with
total war patrols as indicated:

-1-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 51 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
           TWO.

— page 52 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number
         TWO.

4 February, 1945

         Enroute Area Nine. Morning trim dive. Seas building up
         to force 6 during the day.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 24-41 N; long. 135-43 E.

5 February, 1945

         Enroute Area Nine. Made morning trim dive. Seas abated to
         force 3. Skies still overcast. No fix for 48 hours.
0722 I Sighted drifting horn type spherical mine in position lat.
         27-19 N; long. 133-54 E. Mine was very rusty and apparently
         had been adrift for some time. Four magazines of 20 mm,
         assorted magazines of carbine and tommy gun ammunition from
         a respectful distance produced only "damaging near misses".
         Too close to air bases for further sport.

                       Aircraft Contact No. 1.

0930 I Sighted unidentified plane bearing 190° T., distant 12 miles,
         elevation 1,000 ft. Submerged. Stayed down to kill a little
         time and water batteries.
1130 I Surfaced.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 27-45 N; long. 133-36 E.
1424 I Submerged.
1730 I Surfaced.

6 February, 1945

0624 I Submerged for first all day dive, jockeying for position for
         a nocturnal sprint through COLNETT STRAIT.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 29-45 N; long. 131-36 E.
1820 I Surfaced.
2020 I SJ contact on YAKU SHIMA at 35 miles.
2230 I Commenced transit of COLNETT STRAIT on four engines.
         Weather perfect with dark low lying clouds, no moon, grey
         camouflaged submarine visible at 1,500 yds. maximum.

7 February, 1945

0050 I Straits negotiated, set course for patrol station.
0615 I Submerged for patrol off KUSAKAKI SHIMA. Weather making
         up from northwestward.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 31-00 N; long. 128-55 E.
1903 I Surfaced in force 5 sea with 30 knot breeze.

                                                           ENCLOSURE (A)

                               -3-

— page 53 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
         TWO.

8 February, 1945

0000 I 155 mgc. radar varying between one quarter and a little better
         than half saturation most of the night. Probably the MK 13 set
         on KUSAKAKI SHIMA.
0633 I Submerged. Seas now force 6, wind 40 knots, intermittent rain,
         hail and sleet. Controlling depth with one hand on negative
         flood.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 30-42 N; long. 129-05 E.
1845 I Surfaced.
2100 I Cleared SEA CAT serial no. 1. After unsuccessful calling on
         all ship - shore frequencies, tried 4155 kc. HOLLAND answered
         on first call-up! Will bear that in mind.

9 February, 1945

0625 I Submerged in force 5 seas. If this weather is characteristic
         of the "home islands", Japanese desire for expansion is entirely
         understandable.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 31-50 N; long. 129-16 E.
1849 I Surfaced. Seas have now settled at force 4. These past few
         nights have served one purpose; to wit, with the assurance that
         even the Jap is not fool enough to fly in this weather, have
         stayed on the surface for various saturated APR signals and
         have been enabled to take a few notes on "shore based" radar.
         Perhaps a well laid bomb some night will make us Christians
         again!

10 February, 1945

0601 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 32-02 N; long. 129-47 E.
1855 I Surfaced.

11 February, 1945

0614 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 31-46 N; long. 129-32 E.
1902 I Surfaced.

12 February, 1945

0617 I Submerged; weather now passable.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 32-53 N; long. 127-45 E.
1852 I Surfaced.
2025 I Cleared serial no. 2.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-4-

— page 54 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
         TWO.

— page 55 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
         TWO.

                         Ship Contact No. 5.

2150 I SJ contact bearing 008° T., range 11,600.
2200 I Contact develops into 3 weak echoes, base course 240° T., speed
         10. Broadcast the news to Pack Commander and RAZORBACK; no re-
         ceipt.
2230 I Peculiar outfit. All pips same size. They fade out at 12,000
         yards and lobing is impossible beyond 9,000 yards. The leading
         2 are in a line of bearing about 010, 500 yards apart while the
         third is about 4,000 yards on their starboard quarter.
2245 I Lowered one sound head to check for echo ranging and found one
         set on 16 kcs. Hunter - killer? 2 small freighters and one
         escort? 3 small freighters, one equipped with sound gear?
         Radar has had no target for 9 days. Is it up to full sensi-
         tivity? Decided to track until clear of TORI SHIMA and DANJO
         GUNTO and then to investigate.
2400 I Sent a second contact report to the Pack Commander and RAZORBACK
         which was receipted for this time.

15 February, 1945

0115 I Targets definitely cleared TORI SHIMA, on base course 245° T.,
         roughly toward SHANGHAI; speed increased to 12. They are
         zigging conventionally. One pinger. There must be at least
         one small freighter. Let's get him!
0116 I Commenced approach. Visibility about 3,000 yards against a
         horizon of heavy black squalls. Intermittent rain.
0131 I Coming in nicely; range 4,700, angle on the bow 50 P., distance
         to track about 3,300. Have chosen the rear of two leading pips
         as target.
0133 I Problem goes haywire. From plot, "Target is reversing course".
         From TDC, "Angle on the bow is starboard".
0134 I Picture anything but clear with range 2,600 yards. Turned to
         present tail until situation clarified. Cannot assist with
         binoculars for all they reveal is two dark indefinable splotches.
0135 I Plot says target is swinging back to right again.
0139 I Plot now has 6 observations with target back on 250° T., speed
         12. Fired stern tubes on 120 P. track, 150 gyro, 2,900 yard
         run, depth set 6 feet. (Chose the 6 ft. depth setting after
         having watched the clear cut wakes of porpoises in these
         phosphorescent waters). No hits.
0147 I Three heavy end of run explosions.
0150 I Commenced end around to southward while reloading after nest
         and sizing the situation up.

                                                           ENCLOSURE (A)

                                  -6-

— page 56 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
         TWO.

— page 57 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
TWO.

— page 58 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
         TWO.

1852 I Surfaced; range to near target 7,500 yards. Sunset was at
1815 I They came along just a bit too late.
1918 I Commenced firing in rapidly fading light. Half moon is some
       help.
1939 I Target barely visible in moonlight. Made a pass at 700 yards.
       Hits observed but target refused to burn.
1957 I Gun crews thoroughly chilled in 38° F. air with heavy spray
       breaking over. Broke off attack to transmit weather report.
2030 I Cleared serial #3.
2130 I Received orders for change of patrol plan from Pack Commander.

20 February, 1945
0615 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 32-00 N; long. 127-26 E.
1908 I Surfaced.

21 February, 1945
0608 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 31-48 N; long. 129-06 E.
1916 I Surfaced.

22 February, 1945
0607 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 30-08 N; long 128-53 E.
1916 I Surfaced.
2000 I Converted #4 F.B.T.

23 February, 1945
0615 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 30-08 N; long. 128-52 E.
1905 I Surfaced.

24 February, 1945
0624 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 29-57 N; long. 125-34 E.
1908 I Surfaced. Seas making up from eastward.

25 February, 1945
0630 I Submerged. Seas have built up to force 6 and hauled around to
       210° T. during the night.

                                                              ENCLOSURE (A)
                               -9-

— page 61 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number
         TWO.

1955 I Pinger's presence is anything but accidental. He has the dope.
         Picked up his screws speeding up and coming in on a steady
         bearing. Rigged for depth charge, went to 180 feet and
         started to turn tail toward.
1957 I Short scale.
2000 I Screws passed almost overhead, Hang on! No explosions.
2006 I As escort slowed to come around, turned away and fired NAE
         beacon. Dud. Fired NAC beacon which proved to be the business.
         Ran out at full speed.
2020 I Escort baffled - still on short scale, screws stopped in spot
         where beacon was fired.
2030 I Escort shifted to long scale searching.
2059 I Having run 5 miles since firing beacon, surfaced. Escort still
         searching same spot, bearing 330° T., range 11,500 yards.
         Retired to southward to charge an 1160 battery.

5 March, 1945

0607 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 33-54 N; long. 127-12 E.
1909 I Surfaced.
2100 I Cleared serial 5.

6 March, 1945

0604 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 33-35 N; long. 127-09 E.

Ship Contact No. 16.

1748 I Sighted small freighter bearing 063° T., range 6,000 yards,
         angle on the bow 100 P. Ship was similar to Sugar Able (c)
         class, shown on page 5 of Weekly Intelligence, Vol. 1, No. 21
         (length 250 ft. later determined by binocular formula).
         Target on northerly course, beating into force 4 - 5 seas at
         4 knots. Trailed until
1918 I Surfaced and commenced tracking.
1919 I Fired three torpedoes across the sea, depth set 6 feet at a
         perfect solution of 90 starboard track, 005 gyro, 1,000 yard
         run, divergent spread 100 feet along target's track. No hits.
         Hauled out for a second try.

-12-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 62 —
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number
         TWO.

2040 I Fired three torpedoes on 75 starboard track, 359 gyro, 1,200
         yard run, depth set zero. No spread. Only one torpedo seen
         to kick up spray.
2041-25 I One hit, slightly forward of MOT, demolishing forward
         half of ship.
2047 I After half sank. Retired.

7 March, 1945

0550 I Received ComSubPac's approval for one week's extension of
         patrol.
0610 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 33-13 N; long. 126-57 E.
1918 I Surfaced.
2100 I Cleared message to CHUNGKING.
2105 I Set course for area 12.

8 March, 1945

0647 I Submerged.
0722 I Surfaced - sighted what appeared to be a submarine with small
         angle on bow bearing 201° T., range approximately 6 miles.
0727 I Submerged to close.
0800 I Target identified as small sailing vessel - opened out.

         Aircraft Contact No. 4.

0914 I Sighted unidentified single engine plane bearing 099° T.,
         distant 8 miles, altitude 1,000 feet.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 33-05 N; long. 124-26 E.
1913 I Surfaced.

9 March, 1945

0638 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 35-36 N; long. 122-50 E.

         Ship Contact No. 17.

1638 I Sighted masts of 2 ships, bearing 339° T., range 8 miles.
1900 I Targets identified as trawlers equipped with radio antenna
         and 3" guns.
1933 I Surfaced.

                                                              ENCLOSURE (A)

                                     -13-

— page 63 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number
           TWO.

— page 64 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol, Number
         TWO.

13 March, 1945

1930 I Surfaced.

0348 I APR contact, 140 m.c., gradually building up to 3/4 saturation
         at which time plane was picked up on SJ at 8,000 yards astern
         crossing to starboard. He disappeared at 10,000 yards on
         starboard beam. As night was absolutely pitch black with very
         low stormy clouds, did not dive.
0621 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 33-03 N; long. 124-24 E.
1925 I Surfaced.

14 March, 1945

0611 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 32-09 N; long. 127-39 E.
1919 I Surfaced.

15 March, 1945

0602 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 30-27 N; long. 129-02 E.
1928 I Surfaced.
2330 I Commenced transit of COLNETT STRAIT.

16 March, 1945

0200 I Cleared COLNETT STRAIT.
0553 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 29-38 N; long. 132-13 E.
1837 I Surfaced.
2200 I Cleared serial 6.

17 March, 1945

         Enroute Midway Island - 4 training dives during the day.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 29-37 N; long. 137-44 E.
1300 I Set clocks ahead 1 hour to zone -10 (King) time.

                                                            ENCLOSURE (A)

                                -15-

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U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

18 March, 1945

Enroute Midway Island.
0130 K APR contact 150 mgc., 300 PRF, 1/2 saturation. SEA CAT now
passing between LOT'S WIFE and TORI SHIMA
0150 K Signal reached saturation. Slowed to 2/3 to reduce wake, cut
in SD.
0153 K SD and SJ made simultaneous contact, 6 miles, passing down
starboard side. (SD pip 1 1/2 inches high!).
0158 K Plane closed to 5 miles and disappeared astern at 8 miles.
0631 K Training dive.
1011 K Training dive.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 29-45 N; long. 142-42 E.
1212 K Simultaneous SD and sight contact on Emily type patrol plane,
bearing 260° T., range 14 miles, altitude 1,000 ft., on a
southerly course.
1225 K Emily disappeared in the clouds.
1540 K Training dive.
1610 K Training dive.

19 March, 1945

Enroute Midway at 3-engine speed.
3 training dives during the day.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 29-48 N; long. 144-04 E.

20 March, 1945

Enroute Midway at 3-engine speed.
3 training dives during the day.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 29-32 N; long. 155-12 E.
1600 K Set clocks ahead 1 hour to zone -11 (L) time.
2000 L Converted #3 and #5 F.B.T.

21 March, 1945

Enroute Midway at 3-engine speed.
3 training dives during the day.
1200 L Noon position: lat. 29-13 N; long. 160-23 E.
1330 L Conducted 4-hour full power trial.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-16-

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U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

(C) WEATHER

          In the vicinity of TOKARA GUNTO and OSUMI GUNTO, during February,
1945, the effects of the Japan Stream were manifest. Skies were almost
continually overcast with low scudding clouds and heavy weather made up
from the northwest and disappeared with startling suddenness. In one
case, the wind and sea made a complete circuit of the compass in 36 hours.
Air temperature was mild, ranging from 55° F. to 60° F.
          In the KOREAN ARCHIPELAGO, weather was generally fair with the
temperature averaging about 40° - 42° F.
          From March 9 to 13 in the Yellow Sea, from latitudes 33° N. to 36° N.
weather was clear and cold with calm seas. Temperature ranged around
34° - 36° F.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

          In the East China Sea, the currents were variable close to the shore
and apparently depended on the prevailing tide at each point. West of
GAJA SHIMA, on the KURO SHIO, the set was east and drift averaged two to
two and a half knots. West of KUSAKAKI SHIMA, the current was west to
northwest, the set averaging 0.9 knots. Along the west coast of KOSHIKI
RETTO, a northeast set of 0.8 knots was experienced for three days of
observation. In all other parts, the current agreed with hydrographic
data for these waters.
          In the Yellow Sea, light currents were experienced setting in a
southerly direction at 0.4 knots, south of latitude 36° N. and the set
was influenced by the prevailing winds at all times.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

          In the East China Sea, the following navigational aids were sighted:

          KO To (HON SUMU) - Normal characteristics except visible 25 miles
                             instead of 16.
          GYU To           - Normal characteristics except visible 25 miles
                             instead of 12.
          MAKOTSU To       - Normal characteristics.
          KOI To           - Normal characteristics.
          HAKU To          - Normal characteristics.

                                                              ENCLOSURE (A)

                                     -18-

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

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                                U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

Subject:       U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

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U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

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U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

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U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

Communication by SJ with other submarines was accomplished several
times during the patrol.

3. BN and ABK
The BN and ABK were operated only while enroute to and from the
area. The total hours added on this patrol were 200. No operational or
material difficulties were encountered.

4. APR and SPA
The APR and SPA operated very well while we were on station. The
only servicing required was the replacement of one 6AC7 in the APR which
had become weak.
Enroute Midway, noise developed in both APR and SPA. This noise
stops in the APR when the SPA is secured. Its cause has not yet been
determined and is probably due to a poor contact somewhere in the SPA.

(N) SONAR GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

1. No material difficulties were experienced with sound gear other
than the JP-2 listening gear.
About two weeks prior to leaving the area, the insulation on the
JP hydrophone cable opened up about two inches below the shaft.
Numerous splices were made which kept the gear serviceable for the
remainder of the patrol. The break was evidently caused by the strain
of the cables twisting while the head is being trained. This is a recur-
rent failure. To eliminate it the communications department has designed
a coupling which will permit training without any twisting of the cable
and will install the modification during the coming refit.

2. Sound Conditions

Time | Lat. | Remarks
Date | Long. |
(a) 1119 I | 32-18 N. | Did not pick up medium AK making 10 knots on
    2/13   | 128-44 E. | JP or JK at a minimum range of 14,000 yards.

(b) 1155 I | 32-18 N. | JP picked up trawler at 6,000 yards, JK at
    2/13   | 128-45 E. | 5,000.

(c) 1722 I | 33-38 N. | JP and JK picked up 2 sea trucks at 9,000
    2/18   | 127-48 E. | yards in force 4 seas.

                                                              ENCLOSURE (A)
-28-

— page 78 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

— page 79 —
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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

— page 81 —
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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

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U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

Time | Lat. | Long. | Frequency | F.R.F. | P.L. | Remarks
Date | | | | | |
2012 I | 34-00 N. | 128-17 E. | 147 | 750 | 3 | --
2/17 | | | | | |
2312 I | 31-56 N. | 127-46 E. | 280 | 2,500 | 30 | Sweeping
2/20 | | | | | |
2326 I | 31-56 N. | 127-50 E. | 97 | 750 | -- | Sweeping
2/20 | | | | | |
1945 I | 31-33 N. | 129-10 E. | 77 | 250 | 15 | --
2/21 | | | | | |
2105 I | 31-25 N. | 129-10 E. | 147 | 500 | 2½ | --
2/21 | | | | | |
0515 I | 30-04 N. | 129-03 E. | 145 | 500 | 4 | Sweeping
2/23 | | | | | |
2055 I | 30-30 N. | 128-36 E. | 160 | 500 | 7½ | --
2/24 | | | | | |
1945 I | 31-43 N. | 128-45 E. | 275 | 750 | 30 | --
2/26 | | | | | |
2023 I | 31-54 N. | 128-46 E. | 73 | 750 - 1,000 | 25 | Sweeping
2/26 | | | | | |
2106 I | 31-56 N. | 128-50 E. | 95 | 600 - 750 | 15 | Sweeping
2/26 | | | | | |
0545 I | 31-56 N. | 128-58 E. | 160 | 400 | 1½ | Sweeping
2/27 | | | | | |
1910 I | 32-20 N. | 128-35 E. | 73 | 500 | 30 | Steady
2/27 | | | | | |
2020 I | 32-20 N. | 128-28 E. | 95 | 700 | -- | Sweeping
2/27 | | | | | |
1955 I | 32-45 N. | 127-21 E. | 73 | 700 | -- | --
2/28 | | | | | |
2200 I | 33-59 N. | 128-16 E. | 280 | 750 - 1,250 | 30 | Sweeping
3/4 | | | | | |
2200 I | 33-59 N. | 128-16 E. | 145 | 500 | -- | --
3/4 | | | | | |
0440 I | 33-39 N. | 127-20 E. | 165 | 500 | 1½ | Sweeping
3/5 | | | | | |
0445 I | 33-53 N. | 127-07 E. | 175 | 500 | -- | Sweeping
3/6 | | | | | |
1943 I | 33-45 N. | 127-26 E. | 167 | 480 | 22 | Sweeping
3/6 | | | | | |

-34-
ENCLOSURE (A)

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U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number TWO.

— page 85 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THREE TWENTY-ONE ty
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.
                                                                25 March 1945

FB5-321/A16-3

Serial: (022)

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

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
SEA CAT Second War
Patrol Report.

From:           The Commander Submarine Division THREE TWENTY-ONE.
To   :          The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Fleet.
Via  :          (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY-TWO.
                (2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
                (3) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject:        U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol Number
                TWO.

                1. The second war patrol of the SEA CAT, conducted in
the East China and Yellow Seas, was of 53 days duration. Thirty-
eight days, including a 7 day extension, were spent in the area.
The SEA CAT, SEGUNDO and RAZORBACK formed a coordinated attack
group under the command of Commander J. D. FULP, Jr., USN in SEGUNDO.

                2. The numerous small craft contacts, characteristic of
this area, were not lacking, but suitable torpedo targets were
scarce.

                On 13 February a small freighter, with one escort,
was sighted, but could not be closed.

                3. The night of 14 February a radar contact at 11600
yards developed into three pips which were never identified in the
darkness. One craft was echo ranging and the group was zigzagging.
After hours of tracking four electric torpedoes were fired from
the stern tubes with depth settings of six feet, gyros 150°, 120°
track, torpedo run 2900 yards. No hits resulted. After an end
around another surface radar approach was made and good position
attained, but a zig toward just prior to firing gave a very sharp
track. Three electric torpedoes were fired from the bow tubes at
1900 yards on a 150° track with gyros 50°left. Depth setting was
zero with no spread. Again no hits were obtained and action was
broken off as targets were considered too small.

                4. Two sea trucks of about 300 tons were sighted in the
late afternoon of 19 February and SEA CAT battle surfaced at 7500
yards. Firing was commenced in the waning light as the range was
closed. Several 5" and numerous small caliber hits were observed,
but extensive damage was not evident. A minimum range of 700 yards
was reached before action was broken off when target was no longer
visible through the gun sights. 76 rounds of 5" ammunition were
expended in addition to 40 rounds of 40MM, 240 rounds of 20MM and
200 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition.

                                                                - 1 -

— page 86 —
FB5-321/A16-3
Serial: (022)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol ..umber
TWO.

26 March 1945

5. Just prior to surfacing on 4 March a radar sweep
indicated several small craft and schooners close at hand which had
been in sight most of the day. Pinging was heard at this time and
apparently contact was obtained as pinger went to short scale.
After making a dummy run without attacking pinger turned for another
approach. An NAE beacon was fired by SEA CAT, following a dud N-C,
and she made good her escape while escort concentrated on the noise
maker. No charges were dropped.

6. A small unescorted freighter, sighted in the late
afternoon of 5 March, was tracked after dark and attacked an hour
later. After a surface radar approach three electric torpedoes
were fired with a 1000 yard run, 90° starboard track and 5° gyro
angles, with 6 foot depth settings, for no hits. Twenty minutes
later three more bow torpedoes were fired on a 75° starboard track
with zero settings and near zero gyros. One torpedo demolished the
forward part of the target and the remainder sank six minutes later.

7. SEA CAT returned from patrol exceptionally clean and
in good material condition. Normal refit will be accomplished by
PELIAS and Submarine Division THREE TWENTY-ONE Relief Crew.

8. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew are con-
gratulated on the completion of this patrol which resulted in the
sinking of one enemy vessel and damage to another.

[SIGNATURE: J. R. Waterman]
J. R. WATERMAN

— page 87 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON THIRTY-TWO
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California,
                                                                28 March 1945.

FC5-32/A16-3
Serial: 039

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

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)
Report of SECOND War
Patrol.

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

Subject:       U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol
               Number TWO.

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

2.             The Squadron Commander congratulates the Commanding
Officer, Officers and crew of the U.S.S. SEA CAT upon the completion
of this patrol and recommends that the U.S.S. SEA CAT be credited
with inflicting damage upon the enemy as follows:

                                        SUNK

               1 - AK (Small - EC)                      2000 tons (Attack #4)

                                        DAMAGED

               1 - MIS (Sea Truck - EC)                 300 tons (Gun Attack #1)

                                        [SIGNATURE: K. C. Hurd]
                                        K. C. HURD.

— page 88 —
FF12-10(4)/L16-3(18)
Serial: 0750

CONFIDENTIAL
THIRD ENDORSEMENT
SEA CAT Report of
Second War Patrol

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 709
U.S.S. SEA CAT - SECOND 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. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of Second War Patrol
(1 February to 24 March 1945).

1. The second war patrol of the SEA CAT, under the command
of Lieutenant Commander R. H. Bowers, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the
East China Sea area. The SEA CAT, along with the U.S.S. RAZORBACK
(SS394) and the U.S.S. SEGUNDO (SS398), formed a coordinated attack
group with the commanding officer of the SEGUNDO as the group comman-
dor.

2. This aggressive patrol, deep into shallow enemy waters,
resulted in numerous contacts. After three unsuccessful torpedo at-
tacks a fourth found its mark and resulted in the destruction of a
2,000 ton AK. In addition a 300 ton Sea Truck was severely damaged
by gun fire. It is noted that on 4 March the SEA CAT made good use
of a NAE beacon in avoiding attack by an anti-submarine vessel. The
failure of a NIC beacon, apparently due to moisture entering the con-
tainer while in storage in the after torpedo room, is also worthy of
note (the version described under subparagraph (J) of the patrol re-
port is assumed to be correct although it is noted that NAE and NIC
are interchanged in the description contained in the narrative).

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

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congra-
tulates the commanding officer, officers, and crew for this success-
ful patrol during which the following damage was inflicted upon the
enemy:

S U N K
1 - Small AK (New Engines Aft Type)(EC) - 2,000 tons (Attack No. 4)

[HANDWRITTEN: 2ND Copy]
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
[STAMP: RECEIVED S-C FILES]
[HANDWRITTEN: Room 2055]
[HANDWRITTEN: FILE 10 18 APR 1945]
[HANDWRITTEN: File No. (00) /L16-3(23)/SS399]
[HANDWRITTEN: 165080]
[HANDWRITTEN: 5]
[HANDWRITTEN: 52]
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
7 April 1945.

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

[HANDWRITTEN: 237]
- 1 -
[STAMP: RECEIVED NAVY DEPARTMENT APR 1 0 1945]

— page 91 —
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SS399/A12
Serial 03
C-O- [STAMP: DECLASSIFIED] [HANDWRITTEN: Authority: NND 740045]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY C109MA] [HANDWRITTEN: DATE 6/15/77]
25 June, 1945

From: The Commanding Officer.
To: The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via: (1) The Commander Submarine Division One Hundred Two.
     (2) The Commander Submarine Squadron Ten.
     (3) The Commander Submarines, Pacific Fleet.
     (4) The Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number THREE.

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

1. Enclosure (A), covering the THIRD war patrol of this
vessel conducted in the Yellow Sea during the period 27 April, 1945
to 25 June, 1945 is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: R. H. Bowers]
R. H. BOWERS.

130642 [STAMP: FILMED]

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number THREE.
NANFO SHOTO Islands at 2-engine speed. Four training
dives during the day.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 16-16 N; long. 140-42 E.
2300 K Passed southbound SJ interference assumed to be PICUDA.

9 May, 1945

Enroute NANFO SHOTO Islands at 2-engine speed. Four training
dives, fire control problem and battle surface during the day.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 19-46 N; long. 137-31 E.

10 May, 1945

Enroute NANFO SHOTO Islands at 2-engine speed.
0712 K Trim dive.
1000 K SD contact 6 miles - friendly.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 24-31 N; long. 137-35 E.
1315 K SD contact 18 miles. I.F.F. response but closing fast.
Unable to pick him up visually so with range 3 miles, sub-
merged.
1325 K Surfaced.
2020 K Received lifeguard assignment and went to flank speed -
average required 21.3 kts.

11 May, 1945

0851 K Trim dive.
1100 K Established communications with Dumbo.
1154 K Sighted Dumbo who commenced circling overhead.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 30-22 N; long. 137-49 E.
1330 K Received position of cripple, "still in the air." Inquired
if our assistance were needed and were told to "secure";
that he thought he could make IWO JIMA.
1345 K Dumbo departed. Took up surface patrol - toward cripple's
position, just in case.
2330 K Received orders for new lifeguard station - reversed course.

12 May, 1945

0525 K Trim dive.

ENCLOSURE (A)
-5-

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Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399), Report of War Patrol Number THREE.

31 May, 1945

0439 I Submerged. Numerous fishermen during the day.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 37-51 N; long. 124-00 E.
2029 I Surfaced.
2358 I SJ contact - aircraft - bearing 060° relative, range 22,000
        yds. Closed on steady bearing with no I.F.F. response.

1 June, 1945

0004 I Submerged wiht range 6,000 yds., bearing still steady - no
        APR signals.
0014 I Surfaced.
0503 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 37-32 N; long. 123-12 E.
2034 I Surfaced.

2 June, 1945

0445 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 37-50 N; long. 123-29 E.
2036 I Surfaced.

3 June, 1945

0006 I SJ contact - bearing 268° T., range 37,000 yds. Looks like
        a fisherman, but we'll see. Headed toward.
0033 I O.O.D. heard a roar and instinctively looked up. Clearly
        audible in the control room were his gasp and the following
        gulp as his unbelieving eyes focussed on a plane crossing
        overhead from starboard to port.
0034 I Tracking him out with SJ and SD - no APR signals, no I.F.F.
        Starlit night.
0035 I He hit his card - brilliant white flare burst on starboard
        quarter. Bridge was cleared by common consent - words were
        superfluous.
0035-15 I Submerged.
0047 I Surfaced - continued on toward our SJ contact.
0209 I Sighted the contact - fish boat.
0446 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 36-52 N; long. 123-38 E.
2035 I Surfaced.

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4 June, 1945
0450 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 36-19 N; long. 123-12 E.
1830 I Surfaced.

5 June, 1945
0230 I For the next hour and a half played with a 153 mgc. APR signal
        which had not been heard before. Swung for antenna patterns,
        ran down most likely bearings. No results - with radar
        conditions in these parts as they are, the offending set may
        be hundreds of miles away.
0452 I Submerged for trim.
0503 I Commenced surface patrol.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 35-54 N; long. 123-44 E.
1345 I Sighted southbound RAY.
2100 I Set course for RAY'S area off DAIREN and PORT ARTHUR.

6 June, 1945
0300 I Received orders from TIRANTE to remain south of 37-30° N. and
        west of 125° E. for remainder of time in area. That puts us
        back in our old familiar spot after one day's emancipation.
0350 I Sighted EM TO (ROUND ISLAND) light, bearing 001° T., distant
        25 miles - characteristics normal.
0440 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 38-47 N; long. 121-53 E.
1733 I Sighted low flying Rufe bearing 345° T., distant 6 miles.
2057 I Surfaced.

7 June, 1945

SHIP CONTACT #5
0515 I Sighted 4 masted sailing vessel, bearing 107° T., range 12 mi.
0523 I Trim dive.
0535 I Surfaced and closed for attack - target is about 150 ft. long -
        400 tons.

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1930 I After much gesturing and jabbering on both sides, we finally
        got our idea across - the original one (who was obviously the
        boss) bent the line around the charts, then around his waist,
        took a deep breath and plunged over the side to be hauled
        aboard SEA CAT. The other poor wretches were in such a
        thoroughly miserable state, sent over a gunney sack full of
        bread and a jug of water. Perhaps a fisherman will pick them
        up before their tiny section sinks.
1940 I Pulled clear. Our second prisoner is the master of the vessel
        which was 47 meters long, about 400 tons, carrying a crew of
        14 men, bound from HEIJO TO NAGASAKI with a cargo of - but
        here sign language broke down. The charts have indicated on
        them standard routings in Yellow and East China Seas, among
        the islands off the coasts of KOREA and TSUSHIMA straits.

8 June, 1945

0438 I Submerged off DAISEI GUNTO. Many fish boats during the morning.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 37-58 N; long. 124-23 E.

SHIP CONTACT #6

1302 I Sighted 3 Fox Tare Dog's - heading on a southeasterly course
        which will pass to westward of DAISEI GUNTO - attempting to
        close.

SHIP CONTACT #7 .

1342 I Remembered to look around this time - sighted convoy bearing
        208° T., angle on bow 20 P., range 6 miles, consisting of 2
        Sugar Charlie Love's, 4 Fox Tare Dog's, 1 DE, 1 frigate; base
        course about 050° T., speed 8½ knots. Commenced approach.
        The 2 SCL's are in a line of bearing zigging independently,
        with the 1 FTD's in a column 500 yards on port bow of them,
        the DE patrolling in and out on the starboard bow of the
        formation and the frigate patrolling in and out on the port
        flank.
1410 I Position looks nice - 1,000 yards from track and frigate seems
        to be on his outward leg.
1419 I Frigate not cooperating - he is going to force us to shoot
        early as he has turned back in, angle on the bow 3° starboard.

ENCLOSURE (A)

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0447 I Submerged in half light of dawn with range 8,400 yards -
        watched U.S. Submarine (probably HADDO) steam by at 3,600
        yards, apparently oblivious of our presence.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 36-15 N; long. 123-47 E.
1850 I Surfaced.

10 June, 1945

0505 I Trim dive. At any time, day or night, upon the sounding of
        the diving alarm, an observer in the after torpedo room
        would perceive a small, agile form emerge from the depths of
        the torpedo racks, scamper forward and shut the bulkhead
        ventilation flapper with a thoroughly business-like snap.
        Then, on that spot, it would freeze, immobile, its face
        a study in attentive concentration. The TMC commands,
        "Open bulkhead flappers - recirculate!" - briskly alive once
        more, the figure slaps the flapper smartly open, scurries aft,
        (its entire bearing: fairly shouting of prideful accomplishment)
        and disappears into the shadows whence it came - our prisoner
        is no more passenger.
0517 I Surfaced.
0847 I Exploded one mine and sank another with 20 mm fire
        (lat. 34-30 N; long. 123-50 E.).
1630 I SD contact at 12 miles - it did not close.
2200 I Converted 3 and 5 F.B.T. and greased topside.

11 June, 1945

0446 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 32-32 N; long. 127-49 E.
2018 I Surfaced.

12 June, 1945

0439 I Submerged.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 30-28 N; long. 129-08 E.
2007 I Surfaced.
2345 I Cleared AKUSEKI STR.IT.

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13 June, 1945
0451 I Trim dive.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 29-41 N; long. 133-04 E.
1515 I SD contact 12 miles - friendly.
2317 I Formation of Empire bound friendly planes passed overhead.

14 June, 1945
0314 I SD contact 4 miles - friendly.
0700 I Trim dive.
0823 I Sighted 2 Liberators headed north.
1200 I Noon position: lat. 29-34 N; long. 139-21 E.
1501 I Sighted 1 Liberator headed south.
1635 I Passed LOT'S WIFE abeam to port, distant 12 miles.
1800 I Set training watch, Quarter and Station Bill. Dives from
        here on in will be interesting.
2000 I Set clocks ahead one hour to zone -10 (K) time.

15 June, 1945
        Enroute Midway at 2-engine speed. Three training dives
        during the day.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 29-35 N; long. 145-48 E.

16 June, 1945
        Enroute Midway at 2-engine speed. Three training dives
        during the day.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 29-35 N; long. 151-34 E.

17 June, 1945
        Enroute Midway at 2-engine speed. Three training dives
        during the day.
0000 K Set clocks ahead one hour to zone -11 (L) time.
1049 L Sank very old drifting mine (lat. 29-27 N; long. 157-46 E.).
1200 L Noon position: lat. 29-26 N; long. 158-03 E.

18 June, 1945
        Enroute Midway at 2-engine speed.
0730 L Trim dive.

                                                                ENCLOSURE (A)
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(C) WEATHER

The Yellow Sea area climate for May and June was ideal for
submarine patrol with the single exception of occasional calm, glassy
seas. The air temperature ranged around 55° F - cool enough to keep
the boat comfortable without indisposing the bridge watch. Despite
threatening clouds and several severe electrical disturbances,
practically no rain was encountered. Fog banks appeared on a average
of about twice a week, but, while they were heavy, they were not
extensive.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

In the Yellow Sea a southerly set of one knot was noted to the
west of DAISEI GUNTO. A southerly set of approximately one knot was
also noted south of DARIEN MAN. An easterly current of 1½ to 2 knots
was noted in the passage south of AKUSEKI JIMA.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

The following navigation aids were observed:

South Coast SHIKOKU: MUROTI SAKI Light - Flashing red every
14 seconds. Visible 12 miles.

Yellow Sea: EN TO Light - burning normal 6 June, 1945.

ENCLOSURE (A)

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(F) SHIP CONTACTS

Time Lat. Initial Est. Course *How Con-
No. Date Long. Type(s) Range Speed tacted Remarks

1 0650 I 32-42 PC 8 mi. 0 PSur Lying to appa-
  5/19 125-25                               rently listening.

2 0758 I 37-16 1 AK 8,000 yds. 058 PSub Sugar Charlie
  5/25 123-40                                8 Love, 2300 stan-
                                            dard freighter.

3 1128 I 37-29 1 AK 6,000 yds. 090 PSub AK - TOS.N Maru
  5/25 124-01 1 DE                           14 type. DE - UN-1
  2 Escorts                                 type. Other 2
                                            escorts not seen.

4 1509 I 37-24 1 DE, UN-1 14,000 yds. 245 PSub
  5/26 123-57 1 PF, UN-1                     13

5 0515 I 37-06 1 4 Masted 24,000 yds. 180 SiD Bound from
  6/7 123-50 Sailing Ship                    2 HEIJO to NAGA-
                                            SAKI. Destroyed.

6 1302 I 38-00 2 FTD 12,000 yds. 120 PSub
  6/8 124-34                                8

7 1342 I 37-57 2 SCL 12,000 yds. 050 PSub
  6/8 124-28 4 FTD                           8½
  1 DE, UN-1
  1 PF, UN-1

*SiD - Sighting Day.
SiN - Sighting Night.
PSub - Periscope Submerged.
PSur - Periscope Surface.
R - Radar

                                            ENCLOSURE (A)
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Tube Fired - #6
Track Angle - 90 P.
Gyro Angle - 000
Depth Set - 0
Power - 27.5
Hit or Miss - Hit
Erratic - No
Mark Torpedo - 18-2
Serial No. - 57833
Mark Exploder - 8-5
Serial No. - 9277
Actuation Set - Contact
Actuation Actual - Contact
Mark Warhead - 18-2
Serial No. - 5082
Explosive - TPX
Firing Interval - --
Type Spread - 0
Sea Conditions - Glassy
Overhaul Activity - U.S.S PELIAS
*Remarks - Torpedo clocked at 30.1 kts. for 1,000 yd. run
  although it was due for charge the following day
  and temperature vs. range (with depth set
  correction) gave 27.5 kts.

U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. FIVE PATROL NO. THREE.
Time 1421 I Date 8 June, 1945 Lat. 37-57 N. Long. 124-28 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description Convoy consisted of 2 Sugar Charlie Love's 2,300 tons)(EC),
  4 Fox Tare Dog's (about 700 tons) (EC), 1 DE, UN-1 (EC) and
  one frigate, UN-1 (EC). The SCL's were in a line of bearing,
  zigging independently, with one ahead of and to starboard of
  the other. The FTD's were in column (not zigging) about 500
  yds. abeam to port of the port SCL. The DE was weaving in
  and out on convoy's starboard bow and frigate was weaving in
  and out on port flank.
Ship(s) Sunk None.
Ship(s) Damaged None.
Target Draft 15 ft. Course 065° T. Speed 8.6. Range 2,200 (at firing)

ENCLOSURE (A)

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Own Ship Data
Speed 2.5 kts. Course 187° T. Depth 65 ft. Angle 0° (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data
Type Attack Seas were calm, necessitating short periscope exposures and
use of masthead to deckline height as determined by ping
range from attacks nos. 1 and 2. Targets tracked well at
8.6 kts. Elected to shoot on sharp track rather than risk
detection and frustration by frigate on port flank who was
at a range of about 2,000 yds., angle on bow 30 starboard,
echo ranging on 0.7 effective SE. CAT length (relative bear-
ing 045°). Fired 3 bow tubes at starboard SCL on 62 port
gyro 356°, torpedo run 2,200 yds., depth set 6 ft.,
divergent spread from aft-forward of 200 ft. along the
track between torpedoes, using constant bearing method.

| | #1 | #2 | #3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes Fired - | 62 P | 62 P | 62 P |
| Track Angle - | 61' | 61' | 61' |
| Depth Set - | 28.2' | 28.2' | 28.2' |
| Power . | Miss | Miss | Miss |
| Hit or Miss - | No | No | No |
| Erratic - | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 |
| Mark Torpedo - | 56455 | 55974 | 56310 |
| Serial No. - | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 |
| Mark Exploder - | 9203 | 10306 | 9004 |
| Serial No. - | Contact | Contact | Contact |
| Actuation Set - | --- | --- | --- |
| Actuation Actual - | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Mark Warhead - | 4766 | 3141 | 4635 |
| Serial No. - | TPX | TPX | TPX |
| Explosive - | 10 sec. | | |
| Firing Interval - | 1 1/2 R. | 0 | 1 1/2 L. |
| Type Spread - | 2,200 | 2,200 | 2,200 |
| Torpedo Run - | 0 | | |
Sea Conditions - U.S.S. PELLIS.
Overhaul Activity -
Remarks - None.

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U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) GUN ATTACK NO. ONE PATROL NO. THREE.
Time 0612 I Date 7 June, 1945 Lat. 37-06 N. Long. 123-50 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Destroyed: 1, 400 ton, 4 masted sailing ship, with the following
           dimensions obtained from the master who was taken prisoner.
           Length - 47 meters, draft - 3 meters, beam - 6 meters.
           Master wrote name and explained the meaning of the numerals
           228 on the side in Japanese. Ship was out of HEIJO bound
           for NAGASAKI with a cargo the nature of which sign language
           failed to impart.
Damage Determined by: Target left a complete wreck with four or five
           gaping 5" holes (about 2 ft. in diameter) in side, decks
           awash. Found later in day still afloat, so in order to
           speed up process of water logging, was sunk with one
           torpedo in torpedo attack no. four.

Details of Action

Opened fire with 10 rounds of MK. 32 ammunition at range of 4,300
yds. Two were short, but of the other 8, only 1 failed to detonate.
With all sails knocked down and topside cleared, closed in to 1,500 yds.
for 40 mm and 5" point detonating fire. Many hits demolished topside
and holed ship's side. Closed to 500 yds. for 20 mm incendiary fire,
which caused only one or two small smoulderings.

Total Ammunition Expended

5" - MK. 32                               10
5" - point detonating                     32
40 mm                                     64
20 mm                                    360

(I) MINES

Five drifting, rusty, spherical, horn type mines were sighted.
Three detonated under the impact of 20 mm hits; the other two merely
sank. The respective positions were as follows:

           1. 31-06 N; 137-31 E.
           2. 29-12 N; 130-20 E.
           3 & 4. 34-30 N; 123-50 E.
           5. 29-27 N; 157-46 E
                                                      ENCLOSURE (A)
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(K) MAJOR DEFECTS

    1. Torpedoes
        The only major casualty occurred on the second attack on 25 May,
    1945 when a hot run occurred in #2 tube. This was a quick reload and the
    only operation that was omitted was the refilling of the firing valve.
    The torpedo surfaced and in the forward direction to cause the
    functioning of the poppet valve system, but it did not leave the tube.
    The impulse pressure was again built up and the tube fired normally.
    From periscope observations, a torpedo, supposedly this one, was seen
    to broach during its run toward the target.

        The maintenance of electric torpedoes proved no hardship. Four
    torpedoes had to be watered (pilot cells) after receipt from tender.
    Although some torpedoes remained in the tubes for six weeks, only six
    hydrogen burning wires had to be replaced. This showed an increase in
    the life of the wires over our previous experience. Another interesting
    note was the tightness of four torpedoes in the after tubes after 4 hours
    submergence.

    2. Machinery
        Upon rolling #4 M.E. with air shortly before surfacing on the
    morning trim dive of 30 April, a loud knock was heard in the region of
    the vertical drive assembly. The vertical drive was disconnected at the
    coupling and the lower crankshaft jacked. The noise was still heard
    indicating the trouble to be in the lower half of the vertical drive.
    Investigation revealed a badly worn vertical drive lower thrust roller
    bearing, (Pc. #17, FM Dwg. #2435 E, hours in use 2192.3) and a worn lower
    vertical drive pinion roller bearing (Pc. #16, FM Dwg. #2435 E, hours in
    use 2192.3). Both bearings were renewed by continuous work and the engine
    was back in commission at 2100, 3 May. The engine had 55 hours in use
    since a 1500 hour overhaul. Lubrication appeared to be normal.

(L) RADIO

    1. No casualties or faulty operation was experienced throughout the
    patrol with the communication equipment.

    2. Communication by radio was satisfactory and the "Fox" schedules
    were received at all times with good signal strength. The 9050 kcs.
    transmission was used almost exclusively.

                                                                ENCLOSURE (A)

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Position | Time | Frequency | P.R.F. | P.L. | Remarks
| Date | | | |
32-35-30 | 2030 | 230 | 1000 | 3 | Steady
127-37-00 | 5/18 | | | |
32-35-30 | 2035 | 200 | 750 - 1000 | 7 - 10 | Sweeping
127-37-30 | 5/18 | | | |
32-35-58 | 2100 | 155 | 750 - 1000 | 5 - 7 | Sweeping
127-30-00 | 5/18 | | | |
32-26-30 | 2355 | 96 | 750 - 1000 | 20 | Sweeping
127-12-50 | 5/18 | | | |
32-26-35 | 0225 | 222 | -- | 2 | Sweeping
126-32-00 | 5/19 | | | |
36-57-20 | 0605 | 108 | 600 - 750 | 10 - 30 |
123-41-45 | 5/20 | | | |
37-05-01 | 0015 | 185 | Low | -- | Aircraft
123-57-30 | 5/28 | | | |
37-13-40 | 0310 | 302 | 750 | -- |
123-52-25 | 5/29 | | | |
36-50-58 | 2350 | 165 | 400 | 8 |
123-47-40 | 5/29 | | | |
36-39-30 | 0805 | 162 | 900 | 7 |
123-29-00 | 5/30 | | | |
37-40-45 | 0200 | 180 | -- | -- |
123-10-03 | 6/1 | | | |
35-06-30 | 0005 | 153 | 750 - 1000 | 5 |
123-28-15 | 6/5 | | | |
36-29-00 | 1925 | 157 | 1000 | 3 |
123-46-30 | 6/9 | | | |
34-51-00 | 0654 | 162 | 500 - 800 | 10 - 12 |
123-50-15 | 6/10 | | | |
32-32-15 | 2252 | 98 | 900 | 40 | Sweeping
126-54-00 | 6/11 | | | |
29-20-10 | 0613 | 160 | -- | 20 | Sweeping
131-29-00 | 6/13 | | | |
29-40-00 | 0315 | 165 | 500 - 750 | 20 | Sweeping
137-13-00 | 6/15 | | | |

2. Communications Countermeasures.

No intentional enemy jamming was noted during the patrol.

ENCLOSURE (..)
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(V) REMARKS

1. Aircraft - Submarine Communications and Identification.

The difficulties of liaison when planes are operating from bases
not yet fully under U.S. control are realized and these comments, far
from being critical, are offered for what they may be worth.

This patrol was characterized by frequent encounters with planes
which, though probably friendly, approached unidentified in such a
manner as to leave SEA CAT'S only recourse the assumption that they
were enemy. It is easy to visualize how such enforced dives could be-
come more than a matter of mere inconvenience. First, repeated night
dives quickly deplete battery and air, an embarrassing situation at
best during the short summer nights; secondly, a dive at an inopportune
moment, might result in submarine's losing a valuable contact.

The overall picture would be clarified immeasurably if submarines
knew when, where and how many search planes were operating so that the
former may plan their own night's search accordingly and know what
plane contacts to expect. This information could be incorporated in
the nightly broadcast from the air base.

Using VHF, identification could be established, without the
necessity of plane's passing close aboard or directly over submarine to
examine it visually by moonlight or flare, in somewhat the following
manner: (a) Use voice calls meaning (1) plane which is circling me
and (2) ship which I am circling. (b) Augment call with true bearing
(which would be construed as meaning a sector 15° or 20° either side of
that bearing) and range, using shackle code and authentication. Thus
either party, in the event of an unidentified contact could initiate
identification. The call up of initiating party being considered
interrogation and the reply as acknowledgement. The bearing and range
encoded, plus authentication would serve as verification. Should
there be no response, submarine could then assume plane to be enemy;
or the plane could then proceed with visual recognition.

ENCLOSURE (.)
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[HANDWRITTEN: 186]
[HANDWRITTEN: 46]

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SUBMARINE DIVISION 102
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
27 June 1945.

FB5-102/A16-3

Serial: (0112)

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

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO, USS SEA CAT (SS399)
Conf. Ltr. SS399/A12,
Ser. 03 of 25 June 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Division ONE HUNDRED TWO.
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. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol
Number THREE - Comments on.

1. The Third War Patrol of the U.S.S. SEA CAT lasted
for a period of sixty days, of which thirty-six were spent in the
operating area. Six days were spent on life guard duty off the
Nanpo Shoto Islands but no opportunity to effect a rescue occured.
The remainder of the time was spent in the China Sea in a
coordinate attack group under the initial command of Commander
J. H. Lewis, USN, in the DRAGONET.

2. Four contacts worthy of torpedo fire were made.
Three were closed, resulting in five torpedo attacks which are
summarized below. Sixth torpedo attack sank a damaged gun target.

3. FIRST TORPEDO ATTACK - 25 May 1945. A 2300 ton
SCL was sighted in haze at a range of 9000 yards. Unable to close,
the SEA CAT made an end around followed by a well executed day-
light submerged attack with the stern tubes. Four Mark 18-1
torpedoes were fired on a 67° port track, 207° gyro, 1350 yard run,
six foot depth setting and with an estimated torpedo speed of
27.9 knots. A ping range checked the periscope range, the target
had been tracked three hours, a 200 foot spread was used and still
all torpedoes missed.

SECOND TORPEDO ATTACK - 25 May 1945. The SEA CAT
was swung, the range checked by echo ranging and four bow tubes
were fired. One Mark 18-1 and three Mark 18-2 torpedoes were fired
on a 100° port track, 107° gyro angle, 1500 yard run, zero depth
setting, and with an estimated torpedo speed of 26.5 knots. A
divergent spread of 150 feet was used; all torpedoes missed. In
both attacks torpedoes were running across a state 3 sea.

- 1 -
[HANDWRITTEN: 186]
[HANDWRITTEN: 47]

— page 140 —
SUBMARINE SQUADRON TEN
Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California                                11/rhb

                                                          28 June 1945

FC5-10/A16-3
Serial: 0133
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) -
Report of War Patrol
Number THREE.

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. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of Third
             War Patrol.

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

2.           The Squadron Commander congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers, and crew of the U.S.S. SEA
CAT upon successfully completing her Third War Patrol.

3.           It is recommended that the U.S.S. SEA CAT
be credited with the following:

                                    SUNK
1 - Misc (Sailing vessel)                                 400 tons
                                    Total sunk            400 tons

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

[HANDWRITTEN: 186]
[HANDWRITTEN: 50]

— page 141 —
F12-10(A)/A16-3(18) SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET mr
Serial 01652 Care of Fleet Post Office,
CONFIDENTIAL San Francisco, California,
3 July 1945.

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
USS SEA CAT Report of DESTROYED PRIOR TO
Third War Patrol. ENTERING PATROL AREA. [HANDWRITTEN: yb]

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 807
U.S.S. SEA CAT - THIRD 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. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of Third War Patrol
(27 April to 25 June 1945).

1. The third war patrol of the SEA CAT, under the command
of Lieutenant Commander R. H. Bowers, U.S. Navy, was conducted in the
Yellow Sea area. The SEA CAT performed lifeguard duties and operated
in a coordinated attack group under the commanding officer of the
U.S.S. DRAGONET.

2. Despite thorough coverage no opportunity was afforded
to effect rescue during this patrol. Six determined, aggressive
torpedo attacks and one gun attack were made. Unfortunately, how-
ever, out of eighteen torpedoes fired, only one hit was obtained.
Some relief from this most disappointing torpedo performance, which
is now the subject of a thorough investigation, was obtained by the
well conducted gun attack on a 400 ton sailing vessel, which crippled
her and permitted her being sunk later by a torpedo. NAC and NAE
beacons and false target shells were used to good advantage during
this patrol.

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

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congra-
tulates the commanding officer, officers, and crew of the SEA CAT
for completion of this arduous patrol, during which the following
damage upon the enemy was inflicted:

S U N K
1 - MIS (Four-Masted Sailing Ship) (EC) - 400 tons (Gun Attack No. 1
and Torpedo At-
tack No. 4)

Distribution & Authentication E. E. YEOMANS.
on next page.

- 1 -

— page 144 —
VRS
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
7 September 1945.

SS399/A16-3
Serial 05
DECLASSIFIED

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division THREE SIXTY TWO.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron THIRTY SIX.
(3) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(4) The Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399), Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the FOURTH war patrol of this vessel
conducted in the Kurile Islands during the period 6 August 1945 to 7 Sept-
ember 1945, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: R. H. Bowers]
R. H. BOWERS.

[HANDWRITTEN: FILMED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 139371]

— page 145 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399)

SS399/A16-3
Serial 05
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399), Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

(A) PROLOGUE

     SEA CAT arrived Pearl Harbor, T.H. from Third War Patrol on 25 June 1945
and was assigned to Division 102 and Submarine Base for extended refit which
embraced the following major items:

          (a) installation of gun director system;
          (b) pumping of main battery electrolyte to reduce perchlorates;
          (c) overhaul of nos. 1 and 2 main and auxiliary engines;
          (d) installation of ST radar;
          (e) installation of DCDI;
          (f) installation of "T" shaped gaskets in all hatches and main
              induction;
          (g) installation of periscope TBT on #1 periscope;
          (h) addition of range indicators to target designating system;
          (i) installation of SD-5 radar and random pulsing unit;
          (j) installation of APR-5;
          (k) installation of automatic starters for trim pump and one
              hydraulic pump;
          (l) installation of silencer for low pressure blower.

     The following changes in officer personnel were made:

          (a) detached:-

               Lieut(jg) O. B. HOEL, USN.

          (b) reported:-

               Ensign R. F. WEYLAND, USN.

     In order to train for fully and to prove the new gun director system, an
eight day training period was undertaken and expertly guided by Captain L. H.
Chappell, U.S.N. Readiness for sea, 3 August 1945.
     On that date, the after battery soft patch, which had to be enlarged to
admit stable element for gun director, was still unsatisfactory. During the
period 4 - 5 August, it was lifted and reseated and all bolts were rewrapped
and regrommeted. Final readiness for sea, 6 August 1945, after a test dive in
the forenoon.

(B) NARRATIVE

6 August 1945

                                   - 1 -

                                                            ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 146 —
SS399/A16-3
Serial 05
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399), Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)...

1330 W Underway for War Patrol No. Four in accordance with CTF 17 secret
operation order no. 173-45 of 2 August 1945 as Task Unit 17.1.15.
The following officers and chief petty officers aboard with total
patrols as indicated:

OFFICERS
Name | File No. | Duties | Total Patrols
Lt.Comdr. R. H. BOWERS, USN. | 81236 | Commanding | 11
Lt. N. L. JOHNSON, USNR | 95881 | Executive, Navigator | 4
Lt. E. V. NIEMEYER, Jr., USNR | 118634 | Engineering, Elec. | 4
Lt. J. P. KELLY, USNR. | 126355 | First Lieutenant | 4
Lt. P. L. LACY, USN. | 165444 | Torpedoes | 4
Lt. M. L. SNOKE, USNR. | 161509 | Ass't. First Lieutenant | 2
Lt. J. V. LAVELLE, Jr., USNR. | 188966 | Communications | 3
Lt(jg) C. H. DORSEY, Jr., USNR. | 311546 | Commissary | 4
Lt(jg) J. H. GILMORE, USN. | 349764 | Gunnery | 3
Ens. R. F. WEYLAND, USN. | 204207 | Radio Material | 3

CHIEF PETTY OFFICERS
Name | Rate | Service No. | Total Patrols
OVERMAN, William V. | CMOMM(PA) | 261 38 60 | 10
BARNHILL, Clyde E. | CCS(PA) | 268 22 43 | 6
JONES, Jack M., Jr. | CEM(AA)(T) | 356 10 53 | 6
POWELL, Victor W. | CRM(AA)(T) | 201 64 06 | 7
PALMER, Leo R. | CPhM(AA)(T) | 321 65 21 | 4
MAGRO, Angelo L. | CMOMM(AA)(T) | 355 95 04 | 8
KAISER, Karl D. | CMOMM(T) | 311 41 91 | 2
GAMBLE, Billy T. | CEM(AA)(T) | 272 78 23 | 4

1430 W Joined escort and set course through KAUAI CHANNEL.
1500 W Set clocks back 1/2 hour to zone plus 10 (W) time.
2000 W Released escort and set course for MIDWAY.

7 August 1945
Enroute Midway at 2-engine speed. Three training
control problem during the day.
1200 W Noon position: lat. 24-33 N; long. 161-31 W.
1205 W Sighted friendly merchantman in periscope, bearing 244° T, range
31,000 yds. - avoided.
1600 W Set clocks back 1 hour to zone plus 11 (X) time.

- 2 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 147 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399).

SS399/A16-3
Serial 05
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399), Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

8 August 1945

Enroute Midway at 2-engine speed. Three training dives and gun action
problem during the day.
0715 X Sighted friendly merchantman bearing 338° T, range 25,000 yds. -
avoided.
1200 X Noon position: lat. 26-35 N; long. 167-27 W.

9 August 1945

Enroute Midway at 2-engine speed. Training dives and drills during
the day.
0900 X Set clocks back 1 hour to zone plus 12 (Y) time.
0810 Y Sighted friendly merchantman bearing 306° T, range 26,000 yds. -
avoided.
1000 Y Avoided 2 friendly merchantman.
1200 Y Noon position: lat. 28-40 N; long. 172-58 W.

10 August 1945

0600 Y Made rendezvous with escort aircraft.
0638 Y Sighted Midway Islands bearing 273° T, distant 15 miles.
0819 Y Moored port side to berth S-10, Midway. Transfer of torpedoes and
and voyage repairs, including tightening of after battery soft patch,
necessitated remaining overnight.

11 August 1945 (West longitude date)

1000 Y Underway for patrol area.
1200 Y Noon position: lat. 28-08 N; long. 167-44 W.
2400 Y Set clocks ahead 24 hours to zone minus 12 (II) time.

13 August 1945 (East longitude date)

Enroute patrol area at 2-engine speed. Training dives and drills
during the day.
1200 M Noon position: lat. 29-41 N; long. 176-40 E.
1554 M Exchanged signals with east-bound KINGFISH.

14 August 1945

Enroute patrol area at 2-engine speed. Training dives and drills
during the day.

- 3 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 149 —
SS399/416-3
Serial 05
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399); Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

21 August 1945
    Patrolling area Calaboose.
    0707 L Trim dive.
    1200 L Noon position: lat. 44-44 N; long. 163-23 E.

22 August 1945
    Patrolling area Calaboose.
    0928 L Trim dive.
    1200 L Noon position: lat. 46-02 N; long. 161-46 E.

23 August 1945
    Patrolling area Calaboose.
    1200 L Noon position: lat. 46-28 N; long. 159-26 E.
    1408 L Trim dive.

24 August 1945
    Patrolling area Calaboose.
    0700 L Trim dive.
    1200 L Noon position: lat. 42-36 N; long. 160-34 E.
    1700 L Set clocks back one hour to zone minus 10 (K) time.

25 August 1945
    Patrolling area Calaboose.
    0926 K Trim dive.
    1200 K Noon position: lat. 41-01 N; long. 157-02 E.

26 August 1945
    Patrolling area Calaboose.
    1200 K Noon position: lat. 40-12 N; long. 151-46 E.
    1518 K Trim dive.

27 August 1945
    Patrolling area Calaboose.
    0656 K Trim dive.
    1200 K Noon position: lat. 39-12 N; long. 148-19 E.

28 August 1945
    Patrolling area Calaboose.

5

— page 150 —
(A) [STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399):
SS399/A16-3
Serial 05
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399), Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

— page 151 —
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399)

SS399/A16-3
Serial 05
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS 399), Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

Enroute Guam.
1200 K Noon position: lat. 18-05 N; long. 143-00 E.

7 September 1945

Enroute Guam.
0700 K Made rendezvous with escort.
0900 K Moored alongside U.S.S. Sperry.

(C) to (P) inclusive - No remarks.

(Q) PERSONNEL

    (a) Number of men detached after previous patrol. 22
    (b) Number of men on board during patrol. 79
    (c) Number of men qualified at start of patrol. 57
    (d) Number of men qualified at end of patrol. 57
    (e) Number of unqualified men making their first patrol.15

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED

| | Miles | Gallons |
|---|---|---|
| Base to Area | 2409 | 34,140 |
| In Area | 4052 | 38,630 |
| Area to Base | 2229 | 32,900 |
| TOTAL | 8690 | 105,670 |

(S) DURATION

| | |
|---|---|
| Days enroute to Area | 11 |
| Days in Area | 14 |
| Days in Tokyo Bay | 2 |
| Days enroute to Base | 7 |
| TOTAL | 34 |

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

| | Fuel | Provisions | Personnel Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Torpedoes | | | |
| All | 48,000 gals. | 50 days | 40 days |

Limiting factor this patrol: The Japanese - cessation of hostilities.

(U) and (V) No remarks.

- 7 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 152 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THREE HUNDRED SIXTY TWO
FB5-362/A16-3
Serial: (0104)

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

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
7 September 1945.

FIRST INDORSEMENT to
USS SEA CAT - Report of
War Patrol No. 4, ser. 05
dated 7 September 1945.

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

Subject: U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol
Number FOUR.

1. The fourth war patrol of the U.S.S. SEA CAT was
conducted in the Ryukyu Islands area. The patrol was of
thirty-four days duration in which fourteen days were spent
in the area. Two days were spent in Tokyo Bay following the
surrender of Japan.

2. No enemy plane or ship contacts were made. The
SEA CAT will be given a ten-day refit in which all defects
will be corrected.

3. The Administrative Commander of Submarine Divi-
sion THREE HUNDRED SIXTY-TWO congratulates the commanding
officer, officers and crew on the completion of this patrol
and their return clean and shipshape.

[SIGNATURE: D. F. WILLIAMSON]
D. F. WILLIAMSON.

— page 153 —
FC5-36/A16-3

Serial: 071

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

SECOND ENDORSEMENT
U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) -
Report of War Patrol
Number FOUR.

From:
To :
Via :

Subject:

SUBMARINE SQUADRON THIRTY-SIX
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
7 September 1945.

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

U.S.S. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of War Patrol
Number FOUR.

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

2. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew are
congratulated upon the completion of their fourth war patrol.

[SIGNATURE: W. L. Hull]
W. L. HULL

— page 154 —
[HANDWRITTEN: F4254]
Rf

10 0440

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

FF12-10/A16-3

Serial 0308

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
SEA CAT Report of
Fourth War Patrol.

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

Caro of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
14 September 1945

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

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 207
U.S.S. SEA CAT - 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. SEA CAT (SS399) - Report of Fourth War Patrol
(6 August to 7 September 1945).

1. The fourth war patrol of the SEA CAT, under the command of
Lieutenant Commander R. H. Bowers, U. S. Navy, was conducted in the vicin-
ity of the Kurilo Islands.

2. Termination of hostilities occurred before the SEA CAT
reached her assigned patrol station. However, a lifeguard station was
occupied and the SEA CAT subsequently proceeded to TOKYO BAY for the sur-
render ceremonies. No suitable targets were encountered enroute station.

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

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates
the Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the SEA CAT for the comple-
tion of this patrol, and regrets no opportunity was afforded the SEA CAT
to inflict damage on the enemy.

C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7) Comsubspac (3)
GNO (5) ComsubspacAdComd (20)
Cincpac (6) SUBAD, NI (2)
JICPOA (1) ComsubspacSubordcom (3)
AdICPOA (1) All Squadron and Division
Comsorvpac (1) Commanders, Pacific (2)
Cinclant (1) ComSubOpTraGrBalboa (Airmail) (5)
Comsublant (8) Substraimpac (2)
CO, S/M Base, PH (1) All Submarines, Pacific (1)
S/M School, NL (2)
Comsopac (2)
Comsowospac (1) [HANDWRITTEN: 59]
Comsubs7thFlt (Fwd Echelon) (2)
Comsubs7thFlt (Rear Echelon) (2) [SIGNATURE: E. J. AUER]
Comnorpac (1) Assistant Flag Secretary.

— page 155 —
END OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108-AR-31-76]
[HANDWRITTEN: R#1]

||||| 1.0
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||||| 1.4

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||||| 2.2
||||| 2.0
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THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

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

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

D-52254