U.S.S. BARRACUDA (SS-163) — war patrol report SS-163_BARRACUDA.pdf

— page 1 —
START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: E-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-51-98]
[HANDWRITTEN: Barracuda (SS-163)]

| ||| 1.0 | ||| 2.8 | ||| 2.5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ||| 1.1 | ||| 3.15 | ||| 2.2 |
|   |   |   | ||| 3.5 | ||| 2.0 |
| ||| 1.25 | ||| 1.4 | ||| 1.8 |
|   |   |   | ||| 4.0 | 4.5 | ||| 1.6 |

OPERATOR [SIGNATURE: R. Murch Jr.]

DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 4-1-78]

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[IMAGE: Department of Defense seal with eagle and text "DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA"]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

— page 2 —
[HANDWRITTEN: BARRACUDA (SS-163)
WWII PATROL FILE
FOR DECK LOGS SEPTEMBER 1940 - MARCH 1945
CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES WHICH HAS CUSTODY.
ALL MATERIAL ON THIS REEL IS DECLASSIFIED.

J.A. KOONTZ]

— page 3 —
Dictionary of
American Naval
Fighting Ships

VOLUME I . 1959
REPRINT WITH CORRECTIONS 1970

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

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

— page 4 —
Barracuda

Barracuda is a voracious, pikelike fish.

On 17 November 1911 the still uncommissioned Barro-
cuda (SS-21) was renamed F-2 (q. v.).

SP-845, a 55-foot motorboat of 1917-19, was also known
as Barracuda.

I

(SF-4: dp. 2000; l. 341'6"; b. 27'7"; dr. 15'11"; s. 18.7
k.; cpl. 58; a. 1 5", 6 21" TT.; cl B)

The first *Barracuda* (SF-4) was launched as *V-1*, 17
July 1924 by Portsmouth Navy Yard; sponsored by Mrs.
Cornelia Wolcott Snyder, wife of Captain Snyder; and
commissioned 1 October 1924, Lieutenant Commander S.
Picking in command.
*V-1* had been commissioned for surface running only,
to permit an early trial of her new engines. She was as-
signed to Submarine Division 20 and, after cruising along
the New England coast, sailed 14 January 1925 on a sur-
face cruise of the Caribbean, returning in May 1925 for
completion. *V-1* cruised along the Atlantic coast and in
the Caribbean until November 1927.
On 8 November 1927 Squadron 20 left Portsmouth, N. H.,
for San Diego, arriving 3 December 1927. Between December
1927 and May 1932 *V-1* served with the Squadron on
routine operations with the fleet along the west coast, in
the Hawaiian Islands, and in the Caribbean. Her name
was changed to *Barracuda* 9 March 1931 and her desig-
nation to SS-163, 1 July 1931. In May 1932 she went
into Rotating Reserve with Submarine Division 15 at
Mare Island. In January 1933 *Barracuda* was assigned
to Submarine Division 12 and, until late in 1936, operated
along the west coast and cruised to Pearl Harbor and the
Canal Zone with the fleet. On 28 October 1936 she left
San Diego for the Caribbean where she took part in the
Gravimetric Survey Expedition. On 8 January 1937
*Barracuda* sailed from St. Thomas, V. I., and arrived
at Philadelphia 14 January, where she remained until
placed out of commission 14 May 1937.
*Barracuda* was recommissioned at Portsmouth, N. H.,
5 September 1940 and assigned to Submarine Division
9. She sailed from Portsmouth 21 March 1941 to Ber-
muda; returned in June; and joined Submarine Divi-
sion 71. She remained in the New England area until
sailing from New London 17 November 1941 to join
duty in the Pacific Fleet. She attended to
Patrol Area until 15 December 1941 when she rejoined
the Atlantic Fleet. Between 15 December 1941 and 7
September 1942 *Barracuda* was attached to Submarine
Division 31 and completed six war patrols in the Pacific
Ocean, southwest of Panama, without enemy contacts.
*Barracuda* returned to Coco Solo, C. Z., 7 September
1942 and, following voyage repairs, she proceeded to
Philadelphia for overhaul. Following overhaul she was
based at New London until February 1945 with Sub-
marine Divisions 13 and 31. She operated on training
problems with destroyers, other submarines, and planes
in Block Island Sound. *Barracuda* arrived at Philadel-
phia Navy Yard 16 February 1945; was decommissioned
3 March 1945; and sold 16 November 1945.

— page 5 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 7 ST COPY]

SUBMARINE DIVISION THIRTY ONE
U.S.S. BARRACUDA, Flagship.

Coco Solo, C.Z.
January 16, 1942.

[HANDWRITTEN: 416-3(07)]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
DECLASSIFIED

From: The Commander Submarine Division THIRTY ONE.
To : The Chief of Naval Operations.
The Commander Submarines Atlantic Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, Atlantic Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. BARRACUDA (SS163) - Report of War [UNCLEAR: 1ST WP]
Patrol period 15 Dec.1941 to 1 Jan.1942.

Reference: (a)Comsublant letter 14-41, file 46-5 (1979)
of December 15, 1941.

1. U.S.S. BARRACUDA departed on patrol on 15 Dec-
ember, 1941 and returned on 1 January 1942 in accordance with
Commander Submarine Squadron THREE Operation Order 39-41 and
Commander Submarines Offshore Patrol Pacific Order 3-41.

2. The initial patrol point was in Lat.5°-15'N;
Long.93°W. Patrol was made on surface to westward in day-
light, retiring to initial point during darkness at economi-
cal speed.

3. The WBA sound gear was manned during darkness
and periods of reduced visibility.

4. During darkness 2 torpedo tubes forward and one
aft were flooded. The Mk XV, Mod.1 torpedoes are not reli-
able when left in a flooded tube for more than a short time.
It is hoped that the new sealing compound being provided for
exhaust valves by the Bureau of Ordnance will prevent the
entrance of water into the afterbodies. In the meantime,
tubes will not be flooded until just before firing.

5. Habitability was much improved due to the air-
conditioning apparatus which functioned efficiently. Health
in general was excellent.

6. The ship was self sustaining in fresh water.

7. Communications were not satisfactory. Recogni-
tion and identification signals should be simplified. De-
livery of the new radio transmitters, long authorized and
long overdue, should be expedited. Both of the above points
has been handled in separate correspondence.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/23/72]
DECLASSIFIED
-1-

— page 6 —
A16-3 (07) SUBMARINE DIVISION THIRTY ONE
U.S.S.BARRACUDA, Flagship.

Coco Solo, C.Z.
January 16, 1942.

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S.BARRACUDA (SS163) - Report of War
Patrol period 15 Dec.1941 to 1 Jan.1942.

— page 7 —
1ST WP
1ST CONT

SS163/A16-3
Serial 003

SECRET
[FADED TYPED: SECRET]

From: Commanding Officer.
To : The Chief of Naval Operations (Office of Naval
 Records and Library).

Subject: U.S.S. BARRACUDA War Diary, Forwarding of.

1. War Diary for U.S.S. BARRACUDA, period December 7,
1941, to May 31, 1942, is forwarded herewith.

[STAMP: RECEIVED S C FILES]
[STAMP: Room 285]
[STAMP: AUG 17 1942]
[HANDWRITTEN: ROUTE TO- 16 E 2]
[HANDWRITTEN: Op File No. (SO) A12-1/SS/63]
[HANDWRITTEN: Doc. No. 58426]
[HANDWRITTEN: Copy No. 2 of 2]
[HANDWRITTEN: PRN ]

U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Submarine Division 31

c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.,
June 15, 1942.

M.J. HAMILTON

[HANDWRITTEN: 40491]

— page 8 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 2nd copy]
[HANDWRITTEN: WP]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

SS163/A16-3
Serial 046
[TYPED, CROSSED OUT: CONFIDENTIAL]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Submarine Division 31
c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.
February 4, 1942.

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander Submarine Division THIRTY-ONE.
Subject: War Diary - Patrol Period 9 - 24 January, 1942.
Enclosure: (A) Logistic Data for Patrol.
[STAMP: NAVAL INTELLIGENCE]
[STAMP: MAR 1 1942]

1. This vessel departed on a war patrol on 9 January,
1942 in accordance with Commander Submarines, Off-Shore Patrol,
Pacific, operation order No. 6-41, file A4-3(0001) of 5 January, 1942.

2. 0555, 9 January departed Submarine Base, Coco Solo,
C.Z. and commenced transit of Panama Canal southbound. 1427 anchored
in Balboa Harbor. Commanding Officer, U.S.S. ELDA (escort) came
aboard for orders. 1000 underway in company with U.S.S. ELDA and
U.S.S. BONITA and in column formation. 1800 conducted trim dive.
2229 arrived at Point Affirm. Arrived on patrol station at 2000, 13
January, 1942. Patrol on station was conducted on the surface to-
gether with search for a lost plane at approximately six knots. Trim
and training dives were conducted. At 0400, 20 January 1942 commenced
return to port. 0725, 24 January 1942, arrived at Point Affirm. Rende-
vous with other submarines and escort vessel. 1345 commenced canal
transit, northbound. 2230 secured at Submarine Base.

3. The initial patrol station was, Latitude 9°N and Long-
93°W. The patrol was conducted on the surface to the westward, re-
tiring at night to the initial patrol point.

4. No events worthy of particular note occurred during
the conduct of the patrol.

5. No contact or action with enemy forces occurred.

6. Torpedo tubes were not flooded during the patrol. In-
spections were conducted in accordance with existing instructions.
On the tenth day, for the first time it became necessary to top off
two torpedoes with air.

7. Numerous engine casualties occurred. At one time during
the patrol, only one engine of this vessel was in an operating condit-
ion. Numerous and extensive external fuel oil leaks were noted while
fuel was being used from #3 M.B. and #13 and #14 F.O. tanks.

8. During four days on patrol rough weather was experienced.
Visibility was good.

9. Habitability was excellent.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP-09B9C DATE 5/23/72]
[HANDWRITTEN: 40491]
-1-
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

— page 9 —
SS163/A16-3
Serial 046

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: War Diary - Patrol Period 9 - 24 January, 1942.

10. A slight inconvenience resulted from the stoppage
    of the crew's head overboard discharge. Repeated attempts, during
    the patrol, to clear the line were unsuccessful.

11. Morale and health of the crew was excellent.

12. There are no comments or recommendations.

13. Logistic data is forwarded as enclosure (A).

                                                J. M. HICKS

U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Submarine Division 31

c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.
February 4, 1942.

3

— page 10 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Enclosure (A) WAR PATROL - LOGISTIC DATA
January

: 9 : 10 : 11 : 12 : 13 : 14 : 15 : 16 : 17 :
Fuel used :913 :4136 :435 :4477 :2024 :1419 :1113 :913 :924 :
Fuel on hand - 2400 :63439:59303:54969:50492:48468:47049:45936:45023:44099:

Lub used : 120 : 355 : 190 : 215 : 120 : 190 : 230 : 160 : 165 :
Lub on hand - 2400 :7040 :6685 :6495 :6280 :6160 :5970 :5740 :5580 :5415 :

Fresh water used : 460 : 489 : 521 :1054 : 444 : 482 : 640 : 440 : 714 :
Water distilled : 0 : 690 : 435 : 660 : 255 : 205 : 290 : 230 : 190 :
Water on hand - 2400 :10250:10451:10065: 9971: 9782: 9505: 9155: 8945: 8421:

Hours C&R A.C. run : 5.2 : 5.5 : 3.7 : 5.8 : 6.2 : 5.4 : 7.5 : 6.2 : 4.0 :

Battery water used : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 :
Batt.water on hand - :2000 :2000 :2000 :2000 :2000 :2000 :2000 :2000 :2000 :
2400

Provisions on hand - : 30 : 29 : 28 : 27 : 26 : 25 : 24 : 23 : 22 :
Fresh : : : : : : : : :
(Days)(dry) : 36 : 35 : 34 : 33 : 32 : 31 : 30 : 29 : 28 :

Eng. Miles Steamed :106.4:296.7:297.8:290.2:197.1:167.0:149.0:144.7:147.1:

-1-
[HANDWRITTEN: 4]

— page 11 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Enclosure (A) WAR PATROL - LOGISTIC DATA (Cont'd)
January

: 18 : 19 : 20 : 21 : 22 : 23 : 24 : Total
Fuel used : 1149 : 946 :3185 :3151 :2024 :2073 :1535 : 14063
Fuel on hand - 2400 :42950:42004:38819:35668:33644:31571:30036:

Lub used : 165 : 135 : 225 : 225 : 100 : 180 : 110 : 1140
Lub on hand - 2400 :5250 :5115 :4890 :4665 :4565 :4385 :4275 :

Fresh water used : 432 : 580 : 525 : 381 : 326 : 450 : 270 : 2964
Water distilled : 320 : 190 : 685 : 830 : 690 : 700 : 0 : 3415
Water on hand - 2400 :8309 :7919 :8079 :8528 :8892 :9142 :8872 :

Hours C&R A.C. run : 5.7 : 5.2 : 3.8 : 6.5 : 5.5 : 6.5 : 6.2 : 39.4

Batt. water used : 700 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 700
Batt. water on hand - :1300 :1300 :1300 :1300 :1300 :1300 :1300 :
2400

Provisions on hand - : 21 : *19 : 18 : 17 : 16 : *14 : 13 :
Fresh : : : : : : : :
(Days)(dry) : 27 : 26 : 25 : 24 : 23 : 22 : 21 :

*On 19th and 23rd day, it appeared due to some spoilage,
heavier than expected consumption; a days supply had to
be dropped.

Eng. Miles Steamed : 150.1:155.8 : 262.6 : 270.1:145.9:211.2:142.1: 1337.8

[HANDWRITTEN: 5]

— page 12 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THIRTY ONE
U.S.S.BARRACUDA, Flagship.

Coco Solo, C.Z.
February 7, 1942. [STAMP: MAR 1 1942]

A16-3/A12-1
Serial 016
CONFIDENTIAL

From: The Commander Submarine Division THIRTY ONE.
To : The Chief of Naval Operations.
The Commander in Chief, Atlantic Fleet.
The Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.

Subject: War Diaries - forwarding of. [STAMP: OFFICE OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE]
[STAMP: RECEIVED]
[STAMP: 6]
Enclosures: (A) U.S.S.BARRACUDA (SS163) War Diary -
period 9-24 January 1942.
(B) U.S.S.BONITA (SS165) War Diary -
period 10 Dec.1941 - 1 January 1942.
(C) U.S.S.BONITA (SS165) War Diary -
period 2-24 January 1942.

1. Enclosures are forwarded herewith.

2. Insofar as the B class submarines are con-
cerned it has become apparent that the time necessary for
material upkeep rather than the stamina of personnel will
be the factor controlling the percentage of time on patrol
in this area under present conditions.

3. Although the patrols have been uneventful to
date much valuable training has been afforded.

[SIGNATURE: H.L. CHALLENGER]
H.L.CHALLENGER

cc
Comsubsofshopatpac
Barracuda
Bonita

[STAMP: RECEIVED S-C FILES]
[STAMP: FEB 28 1942] [STAMP: FILMED]
ROUTE: [HANDWRITTEN: 16]
Op File No. (SC) [HANDWRITTEN: A12-1/FBS-3]
Doc. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 44817]
Copy No. [HANDWRITTEN: 1] of 1
PRN [HANDWRITTEN: 949]

[STAMP: 40491 FILMED]

— page 13 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 2ND WP]
U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Submarine Division 31

c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.,
February 4, 1942.

SS163/A16-3
Serial 046
CONFIDENTIAL
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander Submarine Division THIRTY-ONE.

Subject: War Diary - Patrol Period 9 - 24 January, 1942.

Enclosure: (A) Logistic Data for Patrol.

1. This vessel departed on a war patrol on 9 January,
1942 in accordance with Commander Submarines, Off-Shore Patrol,
Pacific, operation order No. 6-41, file A4-3(0001) of 5 January, 1942.

2. 0555, 9 January departed Submarine Base, Coco Solo,
C.Z. and commenced transit of Panama Canal southbound. 1427 anchored
in Balboa Harbor. Commanding Officer, U.S.S. ELDA (escort) came
aboard for orders. 1551 underway in company with U.S.S. ELDA and
U.S.S. BONITA. 1700 S-11 joined formation. 1800 conducted trim dive.
2229 arrived at Point Affirm. Arrived on patrol station at 2000, 13
January, 1942. Patrol on station was conducted on the surface to-
gether with search for a lost plane at approximately six knots. Trim
and training dives were conducted. At 0400, 20 January 1942 commenced
return to port. 0725, 24 January 1942, arrived at Point Affirm. Rende-
vous with other submarines and escort vessel. 1345 commenced canal
transit, northbound. 2230 secured at Submarine Base.

3. The initial patrol station was, Latitude 9°N and Long-
93°W. The patrol was conducted on the surface to the westward, re-
tiring at night to the initial patrol point.

4. No events worthy of particular note occurred during
the conduct of the patrol.

5. No contact or action with enemy forces occurred.

6. Torpedo tubes were not flooded during the patrol. In-
spections were conducted in accordance with existing instructions.
On the tenth day, for the first time it became necessary to top off
two torpedoes with air.

7. Numerous engine casualties occurred. At one time during
the patrol, only one engine of this vessel was in an operating condit-
ion. Numerous and extensive external fuel oil leaks were noted while
fuel was being used from #3 M.B. and #13 and #14 F.O. tanks.

8. During four days on patrol rough weather was experienced.
Visibility was good.

9. Habitability was excellent.

-1-
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP-0989C DATE 5/23/22]
[HANDWRITTEN: 2ND COPY]

— page 14 —
- Transcription:

SS163/A16-3
Serial 046
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: War Diary - Patrol Period 9 - 24 January, 1942.

— page 15 —
CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Enclosure (A) WAR PATROL - LOGISTIC DATA
January

| | : 9 | : 10 | : 11 | : 12 | : 13 | : 14 | : 15 | : 16 | : 17
|---|
|Fuel used | :913 | :4136 | :4334 | :4477 | :2024 | :1419 | :1113 | :913 | :921
|Fuel on hand - 2400 | :63439| :59303| :54969| :50492| :48468| :47049| :45936| :45023| :44099
|Lub used | :120 | :355 | :190 | :215 | :120 | :190 | :230 | :160 | :165
|Lub on hand - 2400 | :7040 | :6685 | :6495 | :6280 | :6160 | :5970 | :5740 | :5580 | :5415
|Fresh water used | :480 | :489 | :521 | :1054 | :444 | :482 | :640 | :440 | :714
|Water distilled | : 0 | :690 | :435 | :660 | :255 | :205 | :290 | :230 | :190
|Water on hand - 2400 | :10250| :10451| :10365| :9971 | :9782 | :9505 | :9155 | :8945 | :8421
|Hours C&R A.C. run | :5.2 | :5.5 | :3.7 | :5.8 | :6.2 | :5.4 | :7.5 | :6.2 | :4.0
|Battery water used | : 0 | : 0 | : 0 | : 0 | : 0 | : 0 | : 0 | : 0 | : 0
|Batt.water on hand - 2400 | :2000 | :2000 | :2000 | :2000 | :2000 | :2000 | :2000 | :2000 | :2000
|Provisions on hand - | :30 | :29 | : 28 | :27 | : 26 | :25 | :24 | :23 | :22
| Fresh | : | : | : | : | : | : | : | : | :
|(Days)(dry) | :36 | :35 | : 34 | :33 | : 32 | :31 | :30 | :29 | :28
|Eng.Miles Steamed | :106.4| :296.7| :297.8| :290.2| :197.1| :167.0| :149.0| :144.7| :147.1

-1-

— page 16 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Enclosure (A)

U.S.S. BARRACUDA
WAR PATROL - LOGISTIC DATA
January

                                : 9       : 10      : 11      : 12      : 13      : 14      : 15      : 16      : 17
Fuel used                     :913      :4136     :4334     :4477     :2024     :1419     :1113     :913      :924
Fuel on hand - 2400           :63439    :59303    :54969    :50492    :48468    :47049    :45936    :45023    :44099

Lub used                      :120      :355      :190      :215      :120      :190      :230      :160      :165
Lub on hand - 2400            :7040     :6685     :6495     :6280     :6160     :5970     :5740     :5580     :5415

Fresh water used              :480      :489      :521      :1054     :444      :482      :640      :440      :714
Water distilled               :0        :690      :435      :660      :255      :205      :290      :230      :190
Water on hand - 2400          :10250    :10451    :10365    :9971     :9782     :9505     :9155     :8945     :8421

Hours C&R A.C. run            :5.2      :5.5      :3.7      :5.8      :6.2      :5.4      :7.5      :6.2      :4.0

Battery water used            :0        :0        :0        :0        :0        :0        :0        :0        :0
Batt.water on hand - 2400     :2000     :2000     :2000     :2000     :2000     :2000     :2000     :2000     :2000

Provisions on hand -          :30       :29       :28       :27       :26       :25       :24       :23       :22
Fresh                         :         :         :         :         :         :         :         :
(Days)(dry)                   :36       :35       :34       :33       :32       :31       :30       :29       :28

Eng.Miles Steamed             :106.4    :296.7    :297.8    :290.2    :197.1    :167.0    :149.0    :144.7    :147.1

-1-

— page 17 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Enclosure (A)

U.S.S. BARRACUDA
WAR PATROL - LOGISTIC DATA (Cont'd)

January

: 18 : 19 : 20 : 21 : 22 : 23 : 24 : Total
Fuel used : 1149 : 946 : 3185 : 3151 : 2024 : 2073 : 1535 : 34316
Fuel on hand - 2400 : 42950:42004:38819:35668:33644:31571:30036:

Lub used : 165 : 135 : 225 : 225 : 100 : 180 : 110 : 2885
Lub on hand - 2400 : 5250 : 5115 : 4890 : 4665 : 4565 : 4385 : 4275 :

Fresh water used : 430 : 580 : 525 : 381 : 326 : 450 : 270 : 13492
Water distilled : 320 : 190 : 685 : 830 : 690 : 700 : 0 : 6370
Water on hand - 2400 : 8309 : 7919 : 8079 : 8528 : 8892 : 9142 : 8872 :

Hours C&R A.C. run : 5.7 : 5.2 : 3.8 : 6.5 : 5.5 : 6.5 : 6.2 : 88.9

Batt. water used : 700 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 700
Batt. water on hand - : 1300 : 1300 : 1300 : 1300 : 1300 : 1300 : 1300 :
2400

Provisions on hand - : 21 : *19 : 18 : 17 : 16 : *14 : 13 :
Fresh : : : : : : : :
(Days)(dry) : 27 : 26 : 25 : 24 : 23 : 22 : 21 :

*On 19th and 23rd day, it appeared due to some spoilage,
heavier than expected consumption; a days supply had to
be dropped.

Eng. Miles Steamed : 150.1:155.6:262.6:270.1:145.9:211.2:142.1: 3133.6

— page 18 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 320 ma]
[HANDWRITTEN: 3rd]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

SUBMARINE DIVISION THIRTY ONE
U.S.S.BARRACUDA, Flagship.

A12-1/A16-3
Serial 024

March 3, 1942.
[STAMP: RECEIVED]
[STAMP: 12 1]
[STAMP: 11 2]
[STAMP: 10 3]
[STAMP: 9 4]
[STAMP: 8 5]
[STAMP: 7 6]
[STAMP: CH-U.S. FLEET]
[STAMP: MAR 20 1942 PM]

DECLASSIFIED

From: The Commander Submarine Division THIRTY ONE.
To : The Commander in Chief, U.S.Fleet.
       The Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S.BARRACUDA (SS163) - Report of Third
         War Patrol - 9 to 25 February 1942.

       1. During the period of subject patrol there
were no contacts or attacks.

       2. External fuel oil tank leaks developed. This
matter will be handled in separate correspondence.

       3. The obsolete radio transmitters in the B
class become more unreliable as time goes on. The Bureau
of Ships is cognizant of this military defect and it is
understood that the replacement sets will soon be avail-
able.

       4. Other than the above there were no incidents
of general interest or importance.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
[HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C DATE 5/23/22]

cc
Barracuda
Comsubron 3
BuShips

[SIGNATURE: H.L. CHALLENGER]
H.L. CHALLENGER

DECLASSIFIED

[HANDWRITTEN: 40126 - 7 films]

— page 19 —
4TH WP
1ST COPY

SUBMARINE DIVISION THIRTY ONE
U.S.S. BARRACUDA, Flagship

A16-3/A12-1
Serial 040
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

April 15, 1942

From: The Commander Submarine Division Thirty One.
To : The Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. BARRACUDA - Report of War Patrol.

Reference: (a) Comsublant Conf. Ltr. No.2CL-42.

1. The BARRACUDA conducted its fourth War Patrol
during the period 22 March to 11 April 1942. The Patrol
position was in latitude 40°-30N; longitude 93° to 94° -
30W.

2. No enemy contacts were made.

3. Six friendly PBY planes and one army bomber
were sighted on various days; one PBY exchanged recognit-
ion signals. The other planes were six to eight miles
away and it is believed they did not sight the BARRACUDA.

4. Sound level was normal. No sound contacts
were made.

5. Radio reception on the flat-top antenna ranged
from fair to good without relation to time of day. Static
was often very heavy. Reception on the loop antenna while
submerged was not possible.

6. Weather was generally overcast with frequent
heavy rain and electrical storms during which time visi-
bility was very poor.

7. There were no defects or derangements worthy
of note except the fuel oil tank leaks which subject has
been reported to the Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet
in separate correspondence.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/23/72]
cc
Comsubron 3
Barracuda

Orig. &2 to Comsublant.

H. L. CHALLENGER.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 136426]

— page 20 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 572]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

SS163/A16-3
Serial 056

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[FADED TEXT ABOVE STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division Thirty-One.
 (2) The Commander Submarine Squadron Three.

Subject: Patrol Report.

U.S.S. BARRACUDA - Report of 5th War Patrol.
Period from 13 June 1942 to 12 July 1942.
Area - Pacific.
Operation Order - (1) CSD-31 Secret Mailgram 121630
 of June, 1942.
 (2) CSS-3 Secret Despatch 050205
 of July, 1942.
 (3) CSD-31 Secret Mailgram 071400
 of July, 1942.

1. 0647, 13 June, 1942, underway from Submarine Base,
Coco Solo, C.Z. 0800, 13 June, 1942, commenced South transit of
Panama Canal. 1735, 13 June, 1942, moored alongside dock, Balboa,
C.Z. 0706, 14 June, 1942, underway from Balboa, C.Z. in company
with U.S.S. BASS enroute to patrol station, via Route Red. 0850,
15 June, 1942, parted company with BASS, proceeding independently.
2030, 17 June, 1942, arrived patrol station. 0850, 2 July, 1942,
sighted unidentified vessel on course Northwest. Conducted Sub-
merged approach at close ranges, ship was carefully examined and
the commanding officer was fairly positive of the friendly char-
acter of the vessel. The characteristics of the vessel were not
those of a raider; viz., one deck gun was mounted aft but not
manned; well decks were not built up; one deck house was located
amidships and a few passengers were seen in the vicinity. The
name of the ship "BRASTAGI" appeared on the bow and the stern, and
the letters were welded in place, not painted. Once the name of
the vessel was ascertained, a comparison with the reproduction on
board of this vessel, further indicated that the vessel was actually
the one she purported to be. However, in consideration of the
fact that the radio of this vessel was most unreliable during
the entire patrol period, no notification had been received, by
means of the merchant ship notices, of the passage of the
"BRASTAGI" through the patrol area, and inasmuch as, she was on a
little used route, the commanding officer made a "Battle Surface"
and stopped the "BRASTAGI" for positive identification.
Identification signals were exhanged and the following information
obtained: Point of departure - Antofagasta, Chile; Destination -
San Pedro, California; Cargo - 1000 tons of nitrate. Vessel
was on the proper course.

-1-
[STAMP: 136427 FILMED]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/23/77]

— page 21 —
SS163/A16-3
Serial 056

U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Submarine Division 31

c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.,
July 12, 1942

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: Patrol Report.

1. The "BRASTAGI" was then directed to proceed. 0700, 3 July, 1942,
departed patrol area enroute to Gulf of Dulce. 2220, 5 July, 1942,
received orders to proceed via Route Red to Balboa, C.Z. 1721, 8
July, 1942, moored alongside U.S.S. BASS, Balboa, C.Z. 0645, 10
July, 1942, underway enroute to Perlas Islands training area.
1400, 10 July, 1942, commenced joint aircraft submarine training
exercises. 1538, 10 July, 1942. 1552, 10 July, 1942, anchored in
Saboga anchorage, Perlas Islands, R.P. 0743, 11 July, 1942, under-
way enroute operating area. 0900, 11 July, 1942, commenced joint
aircraft submarine training exercises. 1000, 11 July, 1942, exer-
cises completed. Proceeded Balboa, C.Z. 1300 11 July, 1942,
anchored in Balboa inner harbor. 1405, 11 July, 1942, underway to
commence North transit of Panama Canal. 2245, 11 July, 1942, moored
alongside dock Submarine Base, Coco Solo, C.Z.

2. Weather - The weather was consistently rainy on patrol
station. Visibility usually varied from 2 miles to 6 miles with
the passage of frequent rain squalls. Four good star fixes were
obtained in fifteen days on patrol station. Seas were moderate with
long swells. On 24 June, while submerged at 100', an unusual motion
was noted causing the ship to roll 3° to a side, for a period of
about 20 minutes; an unusual disturbance was indicated, since this
motion was not experienced at periscope depth and sea was unusually
calm upon surfacing.

3. Tidal Information (if Abnormal) - No remarks.

4. Navigational Aids
(1) Morro Puerco and Cape Mala lights were lighted
the night of 7-8 July 1942.
(2) With few exceptions, the only possibility of
getting star sights seemed to obtain between
1h-30m to 1h-45m before sunrise.
(3) A bubble octant has not been issued this vessel.

5. No enemy warships or merchant vessels were sighted.

6. Description of all aircraft sighted:
(a) 1056, 18 June, 1942 - PBY type patrol plane.
(b) 1055, 19 June, 1942 - Army 4- motor bomber -1
(c) 1049, 20 June, 1942 - Army 4-motor bomber - 1
(d) 1057, 20 June, 1942 - Army 4-motor bomber - 1
(e) 1109, 21 June, 1942 - Army 4-motor bomber - 1
(f) 1118, 23 June, 1942 - Army 4-motor bomber -1
(g) 1155, 24 June, 1942 - Army 4-motor bomber - 1
(h) 0935, 25 June, 1942 - Army 4-motor bomber - 1
(i) 1045, 26 June, 1942 - Army 4-motor bomber - 1
(j) 1023, 28 June, 1942 - Army 4-motor bomber - 1

[HANDWRITTEN: 2]

— page 23 —
SS163/A16-3
Serial 056

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: Patrol Report.

                                                                U.S.S. BARRACUDA
                                                                Submarine Division 31

                                                                c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.,
                                                                July 12, 1942.

                                                                immersion pan and upwards through deck, just forward
                                                                of hull ventilation supply intake.
(f) 24 June, 1942 - Port Generator Engine - 3rd Stage
    intercooler tube nest for air compressor - Fourth
    stage A.C. head was flooded. One leaky tube was lo-
    cated in the tube nest. Tube was plugged. Time to
    make repairs - 5.3 hours. Maximum speed during inter-
    val of making repairs - 7.6 knots.
(g) 24 June, 1942 - Port Main Engine - #5 Unit - Cylinder
    head cracked around spray valve assembly recess. Head
    was renewed while underway. Time to make repairs -
    25 hours. Maximum speed during interval of making
    repairs - 4.0 knots.
(h) 25 June, 1942 - Port Main Thrust Bearing - Cooler tube
    nest. It was noted that lubricating oil for main
    thrust bearings was contaminated with salt water. One
    leaky tube was found. This leak was repaired by
    soldering and system was tested to 50#. Oil in the
    system was renewed and the new oil was circulated
    through main engine room purifier to remove the traces
    of salt water in the system. Port shaft was placed out
    of commission for a period of two hours. Maximum speed
    during this interval - 11.0 knots.
(i) 15 June, 1942 - After Vent, Bow Buoyancy Tank - Gasket
    found to be badly deteriorated. Blow-by of the vent
    existed all during the patrol.
(j) 18 June, 1942 - #1 Periscope - Fogged up badly pre-
    cluding its use during the remainder of the patrol.
(k) 24 June, 1942 - #2 Periscope - This periscope developed
    a violent vibration which prevented its use at a
    speed of greater than 4½ knots. It was also found
    that this periscope could not be lowered from the "up"
    position at a speed of greater than 4½ knots, and
    at times could not be lowered at any speed until
    vigorous turning was found to be seizing. Condition
    was partially rectified during the patrol.
(l) 1 July, 1942 - Starboard Generator Engine, #4 Unit -
    Same as (a) above. Time to effect repairs - 16 hours.
    Maximum speed during interval of making repairs -
    12.0 knots.
(m) 2 July, 1942 - Starboard Generator Engine Exhaust
    System - Outboard and inboard exhaust valves leaking
    badly. Result - 1½ stream of water into bilges
    while submerged to prevent flooding of engine. Con-
    siderable leakage around outboard exhaust valve
    operating shaft packing gland at 100' depth experienced.

- 4 -
[HANDWRITTEN: 4]

— page 27 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THIRTY ONE

A12-1
Serial 073
c/o Postmaster, New York
July 14, 1942.

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO BARRACUDA CONF. ltr.
SS163/A16-3 Serial 056
dated July 12, 1942.

From: The Commander Submarine Division Thirty-One.
To : The Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Squadron THREE.

Subject: U.S.S. BARRACUDA (SS163) - Report of
5th War Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

2. It is not considered good practice under
ordinary conditions for submarines in this area to surface
in order to positively identify merchant craft since the
position of our submarine operations is disclosed and a
surfaced submarine is no match for a well disguised raider.
Where friendly or neutral character is presumed following
careful periscope observation the ship should be allowed
to proceed and the submarine should not disclose its position.
Should previous notice of the passage of a friendly ship
through the area not have been received, the submarine
can, after an adequate interval, surface and report the
details of the contact to Commander Panama Sea Frontier.
The possibility of a sneak raid by a camouflaged sea plane
tender cannot be overlooked and under the reported condition
of unreliable radio communication, the commanding officer's
action in stopping the "BARRACUDA" is considered justified.

3. The reported weather conditions for this area
during the period of the patrol are considered normal.

4. Of the aircraft contacts reported in paragraph
(6) of the basic letter the BARRACUDA was apparently not
sighted in those sub-paragraphed (g), (i), (j), (k), (l),
(m), and (n).

5. Most of the nineteen casualties reported were
repaired by ship's force during the patrol, the remainder,
with the exception of the starboard main engine clutch,
can be accomplished during the normal base upkeep period.

- 1 -
[HANDWRITTEN: 8]

— page 28 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THIRTY ONE

A12-1
Serial 073

c/o Postmaster, New York
July 14, 1942.

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO BARRACUDA CONF. Ltr.
SS163/A16-3 Serial 056
dated July 12, 1942.

Subject: U.S.S. BARRACUDA (SS163) - Report of
5th War Patrol (Cont'd).

— page 29 —
FF4-3/A16(1)
Serial 0175

CONFIDENTIAL

2nd Endorsement to
CO BARRACUDA ltr.
SS163/A16-3 Serial
056 of 7-12-42.

From: Commander Submarine Squadron Three.
To : Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. BARRACUDA (SS163) - Report of 5th
War Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

2. Submarines surfacing to stop ships for investigation
in this area must be ready to fire torpedoes before surfacing and
until the friendly nature of the vessel is determined. Paragraph
2 of first endorsement is concurred in.

3. Attention is again invited to the regularity with
which patrol planes pass over this area.

T. J. DOYLE.

Copy to:
Compseafron (complete)
CSD-31
CSD-32
BARRACUDA

UNITED STATES ATLANTIC FLEET
SUBMARINES
SUBMARINE SQUADRON THREE
U.S.S. S-13 Flagship
Coco Solo, Canal Zone,
July 16, 1942.

[HANDWRITTEN: 8-01210]

10

— page 30 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 6 TH]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1 ST COPY]

SS163/A16-3/A12-1 U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Serial 062 Submarine Division 31

c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.
September 8, 1942.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: CONFIDENTIAL]

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division Thirty-One.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron Three.

Subject: Patrol Report.

U.S.S. BARRACUDA - Report of 6th War Patrol.
Period from 19 August, 1942 to 7 September, 1942.
Area - Pacific.
Operation Order - (1) CSD-31 Secret Mailgram 171730
of August, 1942.
(2) CSS-3 Secret Despatch 030250
of September, 1942.
(3) CSS-3 Secret Despatch 041929
of September, 1942.

1. 0720, 19 August, 1942, underway from Submarine Base,
Coco Solo, C.Z. 0947, 19 August, 1942, commenced South transit of
Panama Canal. 1730, 19 August, 1942, moored alongside dock, Balboa
C.A. 0645, 20 August, 1942, underway from Balboa, C.Z., in company
with U.S.S. BONITA enroute to patrol station, via Route White. 0810,
21 August, 1942 BONITA proceeded independently to patrol station.
1450, 23 August, 1942, arrived patrol station. 1900, 2 September,
1942, accidental explosion resulted in injury to man loading sub-
merged signal gun. 2300, 2 September, 1942, departed patrol area
enroute to Gulf of Dulce. 1715, 4 September, 1942, moored alongside
dock, Golfito, Costa Rica. 1215, 5 September, 1942, PBY patrol
plane with Navy Doctor arrived. 1340, 5 September, 1942, trans-
ferred patient. 1404, 5 September, 1942, underway enroute to Balboa,
C.Z., via Route Red. 1947, 6 September, 1942, moored alongside dock,
Balboa, C.A. 0748, 7 September, 1942, underway to commence North
transit of Panama Canal. 1345, 7 September, 1942, moored alongside
dock, Submarine Base, Coco Solo, C.Z.

2. Weather - The weather enroute to patrol station was
consistently rainy or overcast, and no navigational fixes were
obtained for a period of 54 hours prior to arrival on station.
During the remainder of the patrol, the weather was frequently good,
excellent for this area during the period reported. Visibility was
good, except during rain squalls, which, though frequent, were of
uniformly short duration. Seas were moderate with long swells.

- 1 -
[STAMP: 136428] [STAMP: FILMED] [STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP-09B9C DATE 5/23/72]

— page 31 —
SS163/A16-3/A12-1 U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Serial 062 Submarine Division 31

c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.,
September 8, 1942.

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: Patrol Report.

— page 32 —
SS163/A16-3/A12-1                               U.S.S. BARRACUDA
Serial C62                                       Submarine Division 31

                                                 c/o Postmaster, New York, N.Y.
                                                 8 September, 1942.

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject:         Patrol Report.

— page 33 —
## The Barracuda's Patrol Report: A Glimpse into WWII Submarine Operations

This document is a patrol report from the USS Barracuda (SS-163), dated September 8, 1942, and marked "CONFIDENTIAL." It provides a concise summary of the submarine's operational statistics and logistical details during a patrol.

**Key Information from the Report:**

*   **Identification:** USS Barracuda (SS-163), Serial 062, Submarine Division 31.
*   **Date:** September 8, 1942.
*   **Subject:** Patrol Report.
*   **Operational Statistics (Item 13):**
    *   Miles Steamed, Surface: 3197.1
    *   Miles Steamed, Submerged: 40.5
*   **Fuel and Supplies (Items 14 & 15):**
    *   Fuel Oil Expended: 53713 gallons.
    *   Torpedoes: 100% (indicating all torpedoes were still on board or accounted for).
    *   Fuel: 25793 gallons.
    *   Provisions: 20 days.
    *   Fresh Water: 9786 gallons.
*   **Logistical Note:** 3159 gallons of fresh water were received from the dock at Golfito, Costa Rica, on September 5, 1942. This detail highlights the logistical support

— page 34 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION THIRTY ONE
September 9, 1942.

A12-1
Serial 030

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO BARRACUDA Conf.Ltr.
SS163/A16-3/A12-1
Serial 062 of 9/8/42

CONFIDENTIAL

From: The Commander Submarine Division Thirty-One.
To : The Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine, Squadron THREE.

Subject: U.S.S. BARRACUDA (SS163) - Report of Sixth War Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

2. The injuries sustained by George Edward Colgan,
Sea-2c., U.S.N., while loading an emergency identification
signal are at this writing not considered to be of a serious
nature and his recovery within a period of ten days is pre-
dicted. The circumstances surrounding this accident were
fully investigated by a board of officers appointed by the
Commanding Officer, U.S.S. BARRACUDA, as Senior Officer Pre-
sent Afloat. This investigation revealed that the accident
resulted through COLGAN'S inadvertently tripping the firing
lever while in the process of removing the safety pin after
the signal had been loaded and prior to the time the breech
was closed. COLGAN had been previously thoroughly instructed
in the safety features of the loading and unloading of the
signal gun and had repeatedly performed this task in the
past. The loading operation at the time of the accident was
under the immediate supervision of the below decks Chief
Petty Officer of the Watch.

3. Repairs to #1 periscope and to the starboard
generator field coils will be effected during the forthcoming
overhaul period.

4. The BARRACUDA was recalled from patrol six days
prior to the scheduled time in order to effect the relocation
and reinsulation of main battery busses at the earliest possible
date.

/s/ W.L.Hoffheins
W.L.HOFFHEINS

CC
BARRACUDA
[HANDWRITTEN: 5]

— page 35 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 8-01310]

FF4-3/A16
Serial 0230

CONFIDENTIAL

2nd Endorsement to
CO BARRACUDA Conf. Ltr.
SS163/A16-3/A12-1
Serial 062 of 9/8/42.

UNITED STATES ATLANTIC FLEET
SUBMARINES
SUBMARINE SQUADRON THREE
U.S.S. S-13 (Flagship)
% Postmaster, New York, N.Y.,
September 11, 1942.

From: Commander Submarine Squadron Three.
To : Commander Submarines, Atlantic Fleet.

SUBJECT: U.S.S. BARRACUDA (SS163) - Report of Sixth
War Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

2. Main battery busses will be modified in view
of casualty which occurred on vessel of similar class.

/s/ T. J. Doyle
T. J. DOYLE

Copy to:
Compaseafron (complete)
CSD-31
BARRACUDA

[HANDWRITTEN: 6]

— page 36 —
END OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: E-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-51-98]

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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

D-62264