U.S.S. PLAICE (SS-390) — war patrol report SS-390_PLAICE.pdf

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START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: H-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-63-80]

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OPERATOR [HANDWRITTEN: M. Monroe]

DATE [HANDWRITTEN: May 16, 1980]

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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

REEL TARGET - START AND END
NDW-NPPSO-5210/1 (6-78)

— page 3 —
Office of Naval Records and History
Ships' Histories Section
Navy Department

HISTORY OF USS PLAICE (SS 390)

Battleships, cruisers, destroyers, or transports- it made no
difference what they were, the submarine PLAICE attacked them all and
each type was to feel the crippling, paralyzing sting from her deadly
torpedoes. In five war patrols, over 30 tons of Japanese shipping
were sunk with 45,000 more tons damaged by this one submarine of the
U.S. Navy. Unheralded, unsung; she is just another submarine in a
galaxy of scintillating submarines of the "Silent Service".

All this grief to Japanese ships had its inception when the keel
for SS 390 was laid at the Navy Yard, Portsmouth, New Hampshire on
14 July 1943. The submarine acquired its name at the launching
ceremonies on 15 November 1943, when Miss Eleanor Fazzi christened
the ship in honoring her brother, Vicky Fazzi, Fireman Second Class,
who lost his life in the sinking of the aircraft carrier YORKTOWN.

Commissioned at Portsmouth on 12 February 1944, the submarine PLAICE
had Lieutenant Commander Clyde B. Stevens as her first commanding
officer. By 28 February the undersea raider got underway for the
first time for trail runs. Accepted by the Board of Inspection and
Survey, the ship reported for duty to the Chief of Naval Operations on
the First of March. For twenty days PLAICE conducted training exercis-
es out of Portsmouth before moving to Newport, Rhode Island for fir-
ing various types of torpedoes. On 30 March, the sub reported to the
New London Submarine Base for another two-week training period.

All preliminary training completed, PLAICE got underway for Balboa
in the Panama Canal Zone on 15 April. One day out of port, while sub-
merged off the Virginia Capes, a series of distant underwater explo-
sions was heard. A dispatch then arrived telling of the sinking of a
Victory ship in the vicinity. On the following day, while making a
routine dive, the Officer-of-the-Deck sighted a periscope and the
sound man reported echo ranging. The crew hustled to battle stations
but no further contact was made. This was believed to be an enemy
submarine and the first contact of many with the enemy.

Arriving at the Canal Zone on 24 April, PLAICE transitted the
canal the same day. Voyage repairs for the submarine and four days
rotation liberty for the crew at Panama City, preceded departure for
Pearl Harbor where she arrived on 13 May 1944. A training period in
Hawaiian waters marked the final tune-up for the submarine before she
departed to meet the enemy on 3 June; the start of her first war
patrol.

During the 52-day patrol in the Bonin Islands Area, three attacks
were made which resulted in the sinking of four ships. The first
attack came on 30 June, when PLAICE closed in on two freighters with
an escorting vessel. Four torpedoes were spewed from the tubes toward
the freighters and the sub ducked under the surface to avoid depth
charging. Two sets of breaking-up noises were heard and it was

— page 4 —
-2- USS PLAICE (SS 390)

believed that the escort vessel was relieved of two of her charges,
not counting the 31 depth charges which were dropped at random.

The second attack developed on 5 July following a big air strike
on the Bonins. Back in the States the people were celebrating Indepen-
dence Day and PLAICE contributed her part to the celebration by send-
ing a spread of torpedoes into a 2,500 ton freighter in a night sur-
face attack. It is doubtful whether any display of pyrotechnics in
the U.S.A. could match the spectacular explosion of this freighter.
She was evidently loaded with ammunition and gasoline for she blew up
with a terrific explosion which scattered debris over a large radius
of the ocean.

This was fitting climax to a day spent in life guard duty during
the air strike on Chichi Jima. With a ringside view of the activity,
PLAICE was nearly scorched by Japanese shore batteries. She was
forced to submerge twice by near misses. That night the over-optimis-
tic Tokyo Rose reported two American submarines sunk off Chichi Jima.

Just before leaving her patrol station, PLAICE delievered a fare-
well bouquet by sinking a destroyer. In a night surface attack, the
sub picked off a protecting destroyer from the perimeter of a well-
protected convoy. This brought the total for the first war patrol
to three freighters and one destroyer sunk. A veteran performance for
a neophyte!

PLAICE returned to Midway Island for refit as the patrol ended.
By 17 August 1944, the sub was on her way to her second war patrol,
this time in the Nansei Shoto Area. In the early afternoon of 7
September, a destroyer was sighted coming out of a rain squall. The
crew raced to battle stations as the sub sighted a very large two
stack vessel emerging from the haze of the squall. The ship was
moving along at a high speed and made a quick change in course during
the last stages of the approach and whizzed by before an attack could
be planned.

Late in the afternoon of 9 September, the same ship and escort
were sighted again. A better study of the target indicated that she
was a KONGO MARU class liner converted to an auxiliary cruiser. A
spread of six torpedoes was fired from the bow tubes in a daylight
periscope attack. Forced to submerge, the submariners heard a solid,
timed hit and four depth charges thumped down after PLAICE before she
went deep. An accurate appraisal of the damage was not possible but
the target ship was heard to slow down after the torpedo hit her but
later increased speed and cleared the area before a certain annoying
U.S. submarine could administer another torpedo.

On 24 September, PLAICE encountered a submariner's dream -- two
Japanese battleships with four destroyers forming a screen. Making a
cautious approach, the submarine worked into a favorable firing
position on one of the battleships of the GUSO class and let go with
six torpedoes from her bow tubes. The Jap force was moving along at
a good speed with occasional pinging and all the while making too
much speed for effective listening. Four well-timed hits ripped into
the leading battleship.

— page 5 —
-3- USS PLAICE (SS 390)

An attempt to swing around and let the next battleship have simi-
lar treatment was frustrated by one of the screening vessels holding
a constant bearing and putting the submarine in danger of a collision.
As the sub went deep, the escorts began to ping madly and one set of
heavy screws stopped. The Japs never got definite sound contact and
dropped depth charges at random. They did succeed in keeping PLAICE
down deep long enough for the heavy screws of the crippled battleship
to start up again.

Almost an hour had passed and with no more sounds from the surface
all clear was reported. The submarine started up to get a look around
and just as the periscope was going up, the collision alarm sounded.
All hands thought one of the destroyers had played smart and was bear-
ing down on PLAICE to ram her. Later investigation showed that the
bridge alarm had sounded out. This incident won the crew's award as
the most nerve wracking experience of the war. Upon surfacing a
little later, only two puffs of smoke remained of the Jap force.

Just before midnight of 26-27 September, a radar contact brought
the submarine into close range of a convoy consisting of a freighter,
a transport and three escorting vessels. Just as an escort made an
overlapping target with the transport, PLAICE fired four bow tubes
scoring four beautiful hits. The first hit tore into the escort
breaking its back and leaving the bow and stern sections inclined up
at the ends. She then broke into two parts, both of which quickly
sank.

The other three torpedoes erupted into the side of the transport.
She was apparently loaded with high-octane gasoline because the ship
disappeared in a huge blossom of bright orange flame which silhouetted
the two parts of the destroyer for a moment before it went under.
After the smoke of the explosion blew away nothing could be seen of
either ship at 6,000 yards. The other ships in the convoy were mill-
ing about, circling madly. Finally the freighter with one escort
started off together. The other escort remained on the scene of the
attack and PLAICE started out after the freighter. Unfortunately,
they speeded up and it became obvious that the submarine could not
catch them before dawn.

The patrol ended as PLAICE drew into Midway on 7 October 1944 and
got underway the following day for Pearl Harbor in company with the
submarine THRESHER. By 9 November, her refit period was completed
and PLAICE departed Pearl Harbor for her third war patrol by way of
Midway. The patrol was conducted in the Southwestern Japanese Empire
off the coast of Shikoku and Kyushu. The first week on station was
spent patrolling the traffic lanes east of Van Diemen Strait. The
only surface contacts made were with a properly marked hospital ship
and an enemy submarine which dove shortly after being sighted.

Contact was made, on 9 December, with a high speed surface task
force consisting of a carrier, another unidentified large ship and
five destroyers serving as a screen. After running at full power for
an hour and a half an attack position was reached. It was impossible

— page 6 —
-4- USS PLAICE (SS 390)

to pierce the screen and it was decided to fire a divided salvo at
two of the screening vessels. Three torpedoes were fired at the
landing target -- a TERUTSUKI class destroyer. A quick set-up was
then shifted to the second vessel but it turned at close range as
if to ram and PLAICE was forced to dive. While diving, a set-up was
figured on the third ship of the starboard screen and four stern
tubes were fired. Two hits were recorded from each salvo but, forced
to deep submergence the results could not be seen.

The entire Japanese force apparently turned from the origignial
source for the whine of the reduction gears and screws of the heavy
ships could be heard passing overhead. The ensuing depth charging
was ineffective but served to keep several of the escort ships busy
so that at least two more submarines waiting for this force could
press home an attack against the poorly protected capital ships. When
an hour later a terrific underwater explosion was heard and felt, all
hands considered that another Japanese carrier was put out of action.

During this patrol one of the crew developed what was diagonsed as
lobar pneumonia by the pharmacist's mate. PLAICE was forced to leave
her station earlier than planned because of the serious illness of
this crew member. The commanding officer designed an ingenious oxygen
mask out of the shallow water diving mask, some acetylene pressure
regulators and a mayonnaise jar. The submarine pulled into Guam on
20 December 1944 for her refit period as the third war patrol ended.

The undersea raider was again ready for engaging the Japs as she
departed from Guam to conduct her fourth war patrol in the Luzon
Straits-Formosa Areas. PLAICE was part of a coordinated attack group
which included the submarines ARCHER-FISH, BATFISH, BLACKFISH, SCAB-
BARFISH, and SEA POACHER. This long, arduous patrol in the face of
enemy antisubmarine measures resulted in but one contact worthy of
torpedo fire. This contact consisted of a small freighter, a medium
freighter and three escorts. Three determined attacks were made which
resulted in but one hit. This was heart-breaking for the attack was
daringly pressed home and could only be explained by faulty torpedo
performance. On 23 March 1945, after 59 days on patrol PLAICE moored
to the SUBMARINE BASE, Midway.

On 30 March 1945, Commander C.B. Stevens Jr. was relieved as
commanding officer of USS PLAICE by Commander R.S. Andres.

The fifth war patrol originated from Midway Island on 26 April
1945 and took the submarine PLAICE to the KURILE ISLANDS-OKHETSK Sea
areas. The first enemy contact was made on 13 May, when a group of
four sea trucks and four small luggers was trailed until dawn when
the sub cut loose with a surface engagement. PLAICE opened the attack
with her 4-inch gun and 40mm fire until all four sea trucks and two
luggers were sunk. The remaining two luggers were chased toward the
beach and damaged by 20-mm and small arms fire, all larger ammunition
having been expended.

— page 7 —
-5- USS PLAICE (SS 390)

Another surface action commenced on 18 May when seven fishing
boats, averaging 250-tons each, hove into view. The staccato of
20-mm and .50 calibre guns tore into two of the boats and damaged them
visibly. Things were going along pretty much as they should when both
guns jammed at the same time. The Japs seized this opportunity to
retaliate with automatic weapons. Several hits were scored on the
superstructure of the sub and it was decide that this was a poor time
to stick around to find out how much a submarine could take. PLAICE
effected a tactical retreat to seaward.

During the remainder of the patrol only four more contacts were
made, three of these were with properly marked Russian Merchant ships
and were not molested. The fourth contact was with a fleet of
Japanese fishing boats which could not be engaged because of lack of
ammunition. One of the Russian ships opened fire when the sub sur-
faced 6,000 yards away but a quick dive prevented any damage. With
her patrol ended, PLAICE made a stop at Midway and shoved off for
Pearl Harbor, arriving at the Submarine Base by 13 June 1945, for a
routine refit period.

The sixth war patrol commencing on 18 July 1945, was conducted in
the East China Sea area. No enemy contacts were made during this
patrol as the Japanese were nearing the end of their ability to wage
war. PLAICE had several unusual experiences which somewhat compen-
sated for her dearth of shipping targets. Fifteen drifting mines
were sighted during this patrol of which twelve were sunk by the ship's
marksmen.

On 11 August, an object strongly resembling a periscope was sight-
ed close aboard a small boat in the water. With both 40-mm guns
manned, PLAICE made a cautious approach for the objects strongly
resembled a type of Japanese trap. Several 40-mm shells were fired
over the boat to encourage the occupants to identify themselves.
There was still no sign of recognition. Upon approaching closer at
flank speed, figures suddenly appeared waving arms and showing them-
selves to be friendly. Maneuvering close aboard PLAICE picked up
five survivors from an Army B-25. The survivors were in fair condi-
tion with the exception of one who had dislocated a leg. All were
transferred to a Navy patrol bomber on the following day.

On 15 August a message was radioed telling of Japan's acceptance
of the Potsdam Ultimatum. The fighting was over but the war against
floating mines continued until PLAICE victoriously pulled into Midway
on 24 August 1945. Completing her last war patrol, the submarine had
served her country well in time of war.

Unlike many of the other United States submarines, PLAICE remain-
ed inactive service after the war was over. Her cruises have taken
her to countless parts and islands in the wide wastes of the bounding,
blue Pacific Ocean.

By Directive dated November 1947, the USS PLAICE (SS 390) was to
be placed out of commission, in reserve, attached to the U.S. Pacific
Reserve Fleet.

— page 8 —
-6- USS PLAICE (SS 390)

SUMMARY OF WAR ACHIEVEMENTS
PATROL | NUMBER & TYPE | TONNAGE | NUMBER & TYPE | TONNAGE
      | OF SHIPS SUNK | SUNK    | DAMAGED       | DAMAGED

1     | 1 Freighter   | 4000    |               |
      | SAMARANG MARU |         |               |
1     | 1 Freighter   | 4000    |               |
      | JAKOZAKU MARU |         |               |
1     | 1 Passenger Freighter | 9500    |               |
      | AFRICA MARU   |         |               |
1     | 1 Destroyer   | 1400    |               |
      | SHIGURE CLASS |         |               |
2     | 1 Large (AP)  | 10000   | 1 BB FUSO CLASS | 29300
2     | 1 CHIDORE CLASS TB | 600     | 1 Converted Cruiser | 7100
      |               |         | KONGO MARU    |
3     |               |         | 1 DD (TERUTSUKI) | 2300
4     |               |         | 1 DD (Unknown) | 2300
      |               |         | 1 AK (Standard "B" | 4400
      |               |         | Class Type 45) |
5     | 3 Sea Trucks  | 900     | 3 Wooden Luggers | 300
      | (300 tons each) |         |               |
5     | 1 Sea Truck   | 370     |               |
      | Similar to SENYO MARU |         |               |
6     | Destroyed 12 mines and rescued 5 aviaters. |         |               |

TOTALS : | 10 Ships    | 30770   | 8 Ships       | 45700

* * * * *

The PLAICE earned six (6) battle stars on the Asiatic-Pacific
Area Service Ribbon, for participating in the following operations:

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol - Pacific -- 17 August to 12 October 1944

1 Star/Submarine War Patrol - Pacific -- 9 November to 20 December
    1944
1 Star/Submarine War Patrol - Pacific -- 26 April to 13 June 1945

1 Star/ Marianas Operation
    First Bonins Raid -- 15-16 June 1944
    Second Bonins Raid -- 24 June 1944
    Third Bonins Raid -- 3-4 July 1944

1 Star/Iwo Jima Operation
    Assault and Occupation of Iwo Jima -- 15 February to 16 March
    1945
1 Star/THIRD Fleet Operations against Japan -- 10 July to 15 August
    1945

The PLAICE also earned the Navy Occupation Service Medal --
Pacific, for the period 29 June to 15 July 1947.

— page 9 —
-7- USS PLAICE (SS 390)

***
STATISTICS
*****

OVERALL LENGTH                               312 feet
BEAM                                         27 feet
SPEED                                        20 knots
DISPLACEMENT                                 1,525 tons

Restencilled 2 April 1951

— page 10 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]

SS390/A16-4
Serial: (018)

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

[CROSSED OUT: CONFIDENTIAL]
25 July 1944.

From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division SIXTY-TWO.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet,
Subordinate Command, Navy No. 1504.
(3) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(4) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number ONE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart (to Comsubspac only)

1. Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol of this vessel
conducted in the BONIN ISLANDS and KYUSHU area during the period 4 June
1944 to 25 July 1944, is forwarded herewith.

C. B. STEVENS, Jr.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/31/72]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 83284]

— page 11 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.
A. PROLOGUE.

The U.S.S. PLAICE was commissioned at U.S. Navy Yard,
Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on 12 February 1944, in a construction
status.
1 March 1944 the ship was completed and accepted by
the Board of Inspection and Survey. Reported to the Chief of Naval
Operations for duty in a loading and commissioning status.
3 March 1944: Reported for duty to the Commander
Submarines, U.S. ATLANTIC Fleet in an operational training status.
3-17 March 1944: Conducted underway training, comm-
issioning trials to test depth, fired all guns for structural test, made training dives
and practice approaches against a slow speed unscreened target. Was
drydocked to stop leaks in circulating water sea valves and noise in
propeller shafts. Shafts were packed with sand. Noise was corrected
but leaks were not.
18-20 March 1944: Conducted contract torpedo trials
at U.S. Naval Torpedo Station, Newport, Rhode Island.
22-26 March 1944: Conducted special test torpedo
firing for U.S. Naval Torpedo Station, Newport, Rhode Island.
27 March-16 April 1944: Underway training, sound
listening tests, deperming, degaussing, voyage repairs and alterations
were performed at U.S. Submarine Base, New London, Connecticut. Was
drydocked to stop leaks in circulating water sea valves. Installed
radar echo box and eight new type hatches furnished by U.S. Navy Yard,
Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Fired four exercise torpedoes. Made
practice approaches against high and low speed unscreened targets
day and night.
16-25 April 1944: Enroute from New London, Connecticut
to Balboa, Canal Zone.
25-27 April 1944: Reported to the Commander Submarine
Force, PACIFIC Fleet for duty. Completed voyage repairs.
28 April-13 May 1944: Enroute from Balboa, Canal Zone
to Pearl Harbor, T.H.
13 May 1944: Performed voyage repairs at U.S.
Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

-1-

— page 12 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 013 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.
25 July 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

PROLOGUE (Cont'd)

2 June 1944: Completed underway training off Pearl
Harbor, T.H. Fired all guns. Fired six exercise torpedoes. Made
practice approaches against medium speed screened targets day and night.
Participated in three day convoy exercise. Was drydocked to stop leaks
in circulating sea valves and #7 main ballast tank vent risers. In-
stalled the following additional equipment:

Depth Charge Indicator, received from U.S.S. HALIBUT.
Dead Reckoning Tracer, received from U.S.S. POGY.
APR-1 Radar Detector.
50 Pre-amplifier for SD Radar.
True Bearing Indicator.
2-4 June 1944: Loaded the ship for war patrol.

NARRATIVE.

B.
June 4, 1944
1335 (VW) Underway from U.S. Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.,
in company with U.S.S. SEAWOLF and escort, U.S.S. PC485.

2025 (VW) Released escort.

June 5, 1944 Uneventful.

June 6, 1944
1000 (VW) Sighted PBY at 10 mile. SD picked it up at 9 miles and
soon lost it. Plane apparently did not sight us.

June 7, 1944
1415 (W) Sighted PBY at 10 miles through high periscope. Not
picked up on SD although it was in sight 20 minutes.
Plane apparently did not sight us.

-2-

— page 13 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

— page 15 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

NARRATIVE (Cont'd)

June 20, 1944
0546 (K) Submerged.
1323 (K) Surfaced in light fog.

June 21, 1944
0447 (K) Submerged.
1200-1250(K) Chased propeller noises. Finally decided it was fish.
1255 (K) Surfaced in light fog and mist.
1625 (K) SD radar contact at 14 miles.
1626 (K) Dove at 12 miles on SD.
1720 (K) Surfaced.

June 22, 1944
0023 (K) Obtained radar fix on SOFU GAN (Lot's Wife).
0448 (K) Submerged.
0716 (K) Surfaced.
1031 (K) SD contact closing at 12 miles. Submerged.
1129 (K) Surfaced.
1130 (K) SD contact simultaneous with starting low pressure blower.
           Heard through the 7 MC on bridge as 4 miles and 1 mile.
           Submerged to discover that the range was 20 miles.
1242 (K) Surfaced.

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944.

-5-

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SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. ILAICE (SS390) - War Patrol Report Number One.

— page 22 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. ILAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

NARRATIVE (Cont'd)

1903 (I)
    Surfaced.

1935 (I) to
    SJ and SD radars both received interference. Nothing
    was picked up on the APR.
1950 (I)

2350 (I)
    SJ radar had strong signal at approximately 60,000 yards.

July 2, 1944
0034 (I)
    SJ contact faded out, after changing bearing so rapidly
    that it could be neither land nor a ship. This must
    have been an atmospheric freak.

0404 (I)
    Submerged.

1820 (I)
    Sighted three small sampans. Avoided.

2005 (I)
    Surfaced.

July 3, 1944
0404 (I)
    Submerged.

1617 (I)
    Surfaced, proceeding to initial point for lifeguard
    station.

July 4, 1944
0309 (I)
    Picked up radar on 190 megacycles. This is different
    than the usual 98 megacycle contact. It is probably
    from one of our own planes or ships. A list of our
    own radar frequencies and pulse rates would come in
    mighty handy.

0417 (I)
    Submerged.

0428 (I)
    Surfaced.

-12-
U.S.S. ILAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944.

— page 29 —
SS390/.16-4
Serial ( 018 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. ILAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944.

Subject:

— page 36 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )

                                                                U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
                                                                % Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, Calif.

CONFIDENTIAL
                                                    25 July 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

                                        NARRATIVE (Cont'd)

1334 (K)        HURLEY, D., Jr., EM2c, USN, received second degree burns
                on his right hand and first degree burns in his eyes and
                face while cleaning a fuse panel with a metal banded
                paint brush.

July 21, 1944
0445 (K)        Submerged.
0528 (K)        Surfaced.
2052 (K)        Commenced rigging #3 and #5 fuel ballast tanks as main
                ballast tanks.

July 22, 1944
0036 (K)        Completed rigging fuel ballast tanks.
0409 (K)        Submerged.
0447 (K)        Surfaced.
0600 (K)        Set ship's clocks ahead one hour to Zone Minus 11.

July 23, 1944
0449 (L)        Submerged.
0528 (L)        Surfaced.

July 24, 1944
0430 (L)        Submerged.
0507 (L)        Surfaced.
2000 (L)        Set ship's clocks ahead one hour to Zone Minus 12.

July 25, 1944
0512 (L)        Submerged.
0620 (L)        Surfaced.
2052 (L)        Crossed international date line. Changed time
                zone and date to Plus 12.

                                        -26-

— page 38 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

C. WEATHER.
During the last half of June, north of the BININS, the
sky was continually overcast with clear surface visibility, rain and
patchy fog about equally divided. During July around CHICHI JIMA the sky
was crystal clear with flat calms. At no time on station were there any
high winds.

D. TIDAL INFORMATION.
The currents around the BONIN ISLAND Group, in general,
follow the pattern as given in the Japan Pilot, 4th Edition, Vol II, pp
654; setting to the westward with a rising and to the eastward with a
falling tide respectively.
In the vicinity of the Island of SOFU GAN (Lot's Wife) the
current appears to follow the direction of the wind when the latter is
moderate to strong and of several days duration, with a drift of .5 to .8
knots.
During the period of full moon on the eastern side of the
BONIN group, the currents appeared more pronounced and irregular. Drifts
up to 3.6 knots were experienced twenty to fifty miles eastward of CHICHI
JIMA, setting generally in an east and west direction, depending again on
the fall and rise of tide respectively. To the northward of CHICHI JIMA
this set more exactly approached a northeast-southwest axis, while to the
southward it took a southeast-northwest axis.

E. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS.
No navigational lights were sighted in this group.

-28-

— page 39 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

F. SHIP CONTACTS 25 July 1944.

| : | : TIME- | : | : | :INITIAL: | : | : HOW | :
| NO. | : DATE | : LAT. | : LONG. | : TYPE(S) | : RANGE | :COURSE| :SPEED| :CONT. | : REMARKS:
| : | : June 17 | : | : 141-16 E | : Trawler | : | : | : | :
| 1 | : 0831 (I) | : 29-25 N | : | : Patrol | :10,000 | : 171 | : 8 | :Sight: | :
| : | : June 30 | : | : 141-17 E | : AK | : | : | : | :
| 2 | : 1600 (I) | : 28-22 N | : | : | :20,000 | : 220 | : 10 | :Peris: | Attack #1
| : | : June 30 | : | : 141-17 E | : AK | : | : | : | :
| 3 | : 1600 (I) | : 28-22 N | : | : | :20,000 | : 220 | : 10 | :Peris: | Attack #1
| : | : June 30 | : | : 141-17 E | : Trawler | : | : | : | :
| 4 | : 1600 (I) | : 28-22 N | : | : Escort | :20,000 | : 220 | : 10 | :Peris: | Attack #1
| : | : July 2 | : | : 3 | : | : | : | : | :
| 5 | : 1820 (I) | : 28-47 N | : 26 E | : Sampans | : 8,000 | : 160 | : 5 | :Peris: | :
| : | : July 4 | : | : | : AK,AP,AT | : | : | : | : | Carrier
| 6 | : 0739 (I) | :CHICHI | :JIMA | : LST,PC | : 8,000 | : Anch | : 0 | :Sight: | Strike
| : | : July 5 | : | : 141-02 E | : AK or AP | : | : | : | :
| 7 | : 0105 (I) | : 27-43 N | : | : | :12,000 | : 310 | : 11 | :Radar: | Attack #2
| : | : July 5 | : | : 141-02 E | : DD | : | : | : | :
| 8 | : 0105 (I) | : 27-43 N | : | : | : 6,800 | : 310 | : 11 | :Sight: | Attack 2&3
| : | : July 5 | : 27-32 N | : 141-11 | : | : | : | : | : Lost
| 9 | : 0240 (I) | : 27-58 N | : 141-27 | : Unknown | : 9,500 | : - | : - | :Radar: | Contact
| : | : July 5 | : | : | : | : | : | : | : | :
| 10 | : 0305 (I) | : 27-56 N | : 141-30 E | : LST | :12,000 | : 310 | : 13 | :Radar: | :
| : | : July 17 | : | : 139-14 E | : AK or AP | : | : | : | :
| 11 | : 2053 (I) | : 29-22 N | : | : | :15,100 | : 115 | : 7.5 | :Radar: | Attack #4
| : | : July 17 | : | : 139-14 E | : DD | : | : | : | : TERATSUKI
| 12 | : 2300 (I) | : 29-22 N | : | : | :11,000 | : 115 | : 7.5 | :Radar: | Class DD
| : | : July 17 | : | : 139-14 E | : DD | : | : | : | : SHIGURI
| 13 | : 2305 (I) | : 29-22 N | : | : | :10,000 | : 115 | : 7.5 | :Radar: | Class DD
| : | : July 17 | : | : 139-14 E | : AK or AP | : | : | : | :
| 14 | : 2306 (I) | : 29-22 N | : | : | :15,000 | : 115 | : 7.5 | :Radar: | :
| : | : July 17 | : | : 139-14 E | : AK or AP | : | : | : | :
| 15 | : 2306 (I) | : 29-22 N | : | : | :17,000 | : 115 | : 7.5 | :Radar: | :
| : | : July 17 | : | : 139-14 E | : AK or AP | : | : | : | :
| 16 | : 2310 (I) | : 29-22 N | : | : | :16,000 | : 115 | : 7.5 | :Radar: | :
| : | : July 17 | : | : 139-14 E | : DD | : | : | : | :
| 17 | : 2320 (I) | : 29-22 N | : | : | :10,000 | : 115 | : 7.5 | :Radar: | :
| : | : July 17 | : | : 139-14 E | : DD | : | : | : | :
| 18 | : 2320 (I) | : 29-22 N | : | : | :10,000 | : 115 | : 7.5 | :Radar: | :
| : | : July 18 | : | : 140-50 E | : 2 catcher | : | : | : | :
| 19 | : 0731 (I) | : 29-17 N | : | : fish vess | :20,000 | : 300 | : 8 | :Sight: | :

-29-

— page 40 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

CONFIDENTIAL
(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5
|---|---|---|---|---
Date | 6/6/44 | 6/7/44 | 6/10/44 | 6/12/44 | 6/16/44
S | Time (Zone) | 1000 VW | 1415 W | 0735 L | 1215 L | 0415 L
U | Position: Lat. | 24-32 N | 28-43 N | 28-25 N | 28-40 N | 28-04 N
B | Long. | 161-10 W | 173-30 W | 178-55 E | 177-50 E | 167-30 E
M | Speed | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 17
A | Course | 320 | 290 | 272 | 272 | 266
R | Trim | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf
I | Minutes since | O | O | O | O | O
N | Last SD Search | | | | |
E | | | | | |
A | Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1
I | Type | PBY | PBY | PBY | PBY | EMILY
R | Probable Mission | Scout | SCout | Patrol | Patrol | Patrol
C | How contacted | Look-out | High Periscope | Look-out | Look-out | Look-out
R | Initial Range | 10 Mi. | 8 mi. | 10 mi. | 8 mi. | 4 mi.
A | Elev. Angle | 2° | 3° | 2° | 3° | 1°
F | Range & Rel. Bear: | | | | |
T | of plane when it : | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND
| detected S/M | | | | |
C | Gate | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1
O | Sea: Direction | E | E | E | E | NE
N | Visibility(Miles) | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited
D | Height | 3,000 | 3,000 | 3,000 | 3,000 | 2,500
I | Clouds % Ov Cst | 20 | 20 | 30 | 30 | 20
T | Bearing | Day | Day | Day | Day | 290
I | Moon Angle | | | | | 30
O | Percent | | | | | 50
N | Illum | | | | |
S | Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Light Gray.

-30-

— page 41 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (CONT'D)

CONFIDENTIAL
CONTACT NUMBER | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10
S U B M A R I N E
Date | 6/16/44 | 6/19/44 | 6/21/44 | 6/22/44 | 6/22/44
Time (Zone) | 1227 K | 1815 K | 1428 K | 1030 K | 1130 K
Position: Lat. | 29-09 N | 29-22 N | 29-24.5N | 28-02.7N | 28-00.5N
Long. | 144-24 E | 139-24 E | 141-41 E | 141-02 E | 141-03 E
Speed | 11 | 10 | 8 | 15 | 4
Course | 269 | 205 | 159 | 159 | 159
Trim | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf L.T.
Minutes since last SD Radar Search | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0
A I R C R A F T
Number | 1 | -1- | - | - | -
Type | - | - | - | - | -
Probable Mission | Unk | Unk | Unk | Unk | Unk
How contacted | SD | SD | SD | SD | SD
Initial Range | 6 Mi. | 17 Mi. | 14 Mi. | 12 Mi. | 20 Mi.
Elevation Angle | - | - | - | - | -
Range & Rel Bear of Plane when it Detected S/M | ND | ND | ND | ND | ND
C O N D I T I O N S
State | 6 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 3
Sea Direction | SW | SW | SW | SW | SW
Visibility(Miles) | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 | 6 | 6
Heighth | 2,000 | - | 1,000 | 3,000 | 3,000
Clouds % Ov Cst | 0 | OR | 0 | 95 | 65
Bear (Rel) | Day | Day | Day | Day | Day
Moon Angle | | | | |
Percent | | | | |
Illum | | | | |

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Light Gray
-31-

— page 42 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (CONT'D)

CONFIDENTIAL
CONTACT NUMBER | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15
Date | 6/22/44 | 6/22/44 | 6/24/44 | 6/24/44 | 6/28/44
S | Time(Zone) | 1250 K | 2014 K | 1640 K | 1933 K | 0740 I
U | Position: Lat. | 27-54.5N | 27-43 N | 28-27.5N | 28-46.8N | 29-59 N
B | Long. | 141-05 E | 141-10 E | 136-14 E | 135-38 E | 134-47 E
M | Speed | 15 | 7 | 17.5 | 17.5 | 15
A | Course | 159 | 159 | 240 | 240 | 105
R | Trim | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf | Surf
I | Minutes since | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0
N | last SD search
E | Number | -- | -- | -- | 1 | 1
A | Type | Unk | Unk | Unk | EMILY | TOPSY
I | Probable Mission | -- | -- | -- | Patrol | Trans.
R | How contacted | SD | Sight | SD | Sight | Sight
C | Initial Range | 6 Mi. | 4 Mi. | 14 Mi. | 6 Mi. | 7 Mi.
R | Elevation Angle | -- | 10° | -- | 5° | 5°
A | Range & Rel. Bear: | ND | ND | ND | 6 Mi. | ND
F | of Plane when it | | | | 270° |
T | detected S/M | | | | |
C | State | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2
O | Sea Direction | SW | SW | SW | SW | SE
N | Visibility(Miles): | 5 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6
D | Height | 3,000 | 3,000 | 5,000 | 3,000 | 15,000
I | Clouds % Ov Cst | 65 | 90 | 40 | 80 | 05
T | Bear (Rel) | Day | Day | Day | Day | Day
I | Moon Angle | | | | |
O | Percent | | | | |
N | Illum. | | | | |
S

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

-32-

— page 43 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (CONT'D)

CONTACT NUMBER | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20
|----|----|----|----|----
Date | 6/28/44 | 6/28/44 | 6/29/44 | 6/29/44 | 7/4/44
S | Time (Zone) | 1347 (I) | 2201 (I) | 1154(I) | 1915(I) | 0445 to
U | | | | | 1658 (I)
B | Position: Lat. | 29-40.5N | 29-23.5N | 28-42.5N | 28-39 N | CHICHI JIMA
M | | | | |
A | Long. | 144-7-30E | 137-31E | 140-32E | 140-45E | CHICHI JIMA
R | | | | |
I | Speed | 15 | 15 | 15 | 2 | Varied
N | | | | |
E | Course | 105 | 105 | 105 | 105 | Various
  | Trim | Surf | Surf | Surf | Rad | Surf
  | Minutes since | | | | |
  | last SD search | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0
|----|----|----|----|----
  | Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | Several
A | | | | |
I | Type | NELL | - | - | Unk | VF,VB,VT
R | | | | |
C | Probable Mission | Patrol | Patrol | - | - | Strike
R | | | | |
A | How contacted | Sight | Sight | SD | SD | Sight & SD
F | | | | |
T | Initial Range | 8 Mi. | 1 Mi. | 11 Mi. | 4 Mi. | Varied
  | Elevation Angle | 3° | 5° | - | - | Varied
  | Range & Rel Bear | | Before | | |
  | of plane when it | ND | sight con | ND | ND | -
  | detected S/M | | tact made | | |
|----|----|----|----|----
  | State | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0
C | Sea Direction | SE | SE | SE | SE | -
O | Visibility(Miles) | Unlimited | 8 Mi. | Unlimited | 6 Mi. | Unlimited
N | Height | 15,000 | 15,000 | 15,000 | - | -
D | Clouds % Ov Cst | .05 | .10 | .05 | .0 | 0
I | Moon Bear | Day | 160 | Day | 090 | Day
T | Angle | - | 20° | - | 70° | -
I | Percent | | | | |
O | Illum | - | 1/2 | - | 1/2 | -
N | | | | |
S | Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol | Light Gray

-33-

— page 44 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial: (018)
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

25 July 1944.

AIRCRAFT CONTACTS
| CONTACT NUMBER | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25
|---|---|---|---|---|---
| Date | : 7/5/44 | : 7/5/44 | : 7/6/44 | : 7/6/44 | : 7/7/44
S | Time (Zone) | : 1910 I | : 2039 I | : 1307 J | : 1310 J | : 1026 J
U | Position: Lat. | : 27-25 N | : 27-41 N | : 27-12-15 N | : 27-12-15 N | : 26-59-30 N
B | Long. | : 141-27.8E | : 141-27.1E | : 142-32- | : 142-30 E | : 142-59-30 E
M | Speed | : 2 | : 15 | : 1½ | : 1½ | : 1½
A | Course | : 000 | : 000 | : 180 | : 180 | : 000
R | Trim | : Rad. | : Surf. | : 62 ft. | : 62 ft. | : 63 ft.
I | Minutes since | | | | |
N | last SD search | : 8 hr.50m | : 0 | : 8 hr.50m | : 8hr.54m | : 6 hr. 13m
E | Number | : -- | : -- | : 1 | : 1 | : 1
| Type | : Unk | : Unk | : NELL | : EMILY | : NELL
A | Probable Mission: | : Unk | : Unk | : Scout | : Scout | : Scout
I | How Contacted | : SD | : SD | : Periscope | : Periscope | : Periscope
R | Initial Range | : 5 Mi. | : 12 Mi. | : 10 Mi. | : 8 Mi. | : 12 Mi.
C | Elev. Range | : -- | : -- | : 3° | : 4° | : 1°
R | Range & RelBear | : | : | : | : | :
A | Plane when it | | | | |
F | detected S/M | : ND | : ND | : ND | : ND | : ND
T | State | : 2 | : 1 | : 1 | : 1 | : 1
C | Sea:Direction | : SE | : SE | : SW | : SW | : W
O | Visibility(Mi.) | : 6 Mi. | : Unlim. | : Unlim. | : Unlim. | : Unlim.
N | Heighth | : -- | : -- | : 10,000Ft | : 10,000 Ft. | : 5,000 Ft.
D | Clouds:% Ov Cst | : 0 | : 0 | : 2 | : 2 | : .9
I | Rel Bear | : 125 | : 120 | : Day | : Day | : Day
T | Moon Angle | : 200 | : 350 | : | : | :
I | % Illum. | : Full | : Full | : | : | :
O | | | | | |
N | | | | | |
S | | | | | |

Type of Submarine Camouflage this patrol Light Gray.

- 34 -

— page 46 —
SS390/A16-4

Serial: ( 018 )

CONFIDENTIAL
U. S. S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

25 July 1944.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd)

: 31 : 32 : 33 : 34 : 35 :
CONTACT NUMBER
Date
: 7/16/44 : 7/16/44 : 7/17/44 : 7/19/44 : 7/25/44 :
S Time (Zone)
U : 1205 I : 1320 I : 1521 I : 1255 I : Various :
B Position: Lat.
M : 26-00 N : 26-01 N : 29-20 N : 29-11.9 N: Enroute :
A Long.
R : 140-49 E : 140-44 E : 138-15.5 E: 145-54.5 E: MIDWAY :
I Speed
N : 17 : 17 : 15 : 14.5 : Various :
E Trim
: Surf. : Surf. : Surf. : Surf. : Surf. :
Minutes since
last SD search
: 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 : 0 :
Course
: 282 : 282 : 050 : 087 : Various :

Number
: Unknown : Unknown : NELL-1 : Unknown : Various :
I Type
R : Unknown : Unknown : NELL : Unknown : Various :
C Probable Mission
R : Unknown : A/S : Convoy air : Escort :
A : : : cover A/S : Unknown : Patrol :
F How Contacted
T : SD : SD : Sight : SD : SD and :
: : : : : Sight :
Initial Range
: 6 Mi. : 12 Mi. : 6 Mi. : 20 Mi. : Various :
Elev. Angle
: --- : --- : 5° : --- : Various :
Range & Rel Bear
When plane detect-
ed S/M
: ND : 12 Mi. : 4 Mi. : ND : Various :
C State (Beauf.)
O : 2 : 2 : 2 : 2 : --- :
N Sea: Direction
D : NE : NE : NW : SW : --- :
I Visibility (Mi.)
T : 7 : 7 : 7 : Unlimited : --- :
I Height
O : 10,000 : 10,000 : 5,000 : 5,000 : --- :
N Clouds: % Overcast
S : 20 : 20 : 5 : 50 : --- :
Bear(Rel)
Moon: Angle
% Illum
: Day : Day : Day : Day : Day :

Type S/M Camouflage this patrol Light Gray.

- 36 -

— page 47 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

CONFIDENTIAL H. ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. PLAICE TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 1

Time: 1630 (J) Date: 30 June 1944 Latitude: 28-22 N Long. 141-17 E

Target Data - - - Damage Inflicted

Description: Convoy of one freighter of SAMARING MARU Class (Page 130 ONI
208-J (Revised)) and one freighter of HAKOZAKI MARU Class (Page 176 ONI
208-J(Revised)) escorted by one trawler of TOKATI MARU Class (Miscellaneous
section ONI 208-J (Revised)).

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) damaged or
probably sunk: Both freighters.

Damage determined by: (a) Heard two timed hits into SAMARING MARU at
49 seconds and 1 minute, 2 seconds. (b) Screws of both freighters stopped
on being hit and never restarted. (c) Heard one ship breaking up 31
minutes after attack. Heard other ship breaking up 44 minutes after
attack. Heard a timed hit into HAKOZAKI MARU at 1 minute, 50 seconds.

Target Drt Course Speed Range
SAMARING MARU 17' 210 10 830 (at firing)
HAKOZAKI MARU 15' 200 10 1710

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 1.5 Course 138 Depth 66' Angle 00 (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type attack: Submerged periscope attack.

-37-

— page 48 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

ATTACK NO. 1

| | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TUBES FIRED | | | | |
| TRACK ANGLE | 110 P | 117 P | 115 P | 127 P |
| GYRO ANGLE | 143 | 136 | 127 | 115 |
| DEPTH SET | 6 Ft. | 6 Ft. | 6 Ft. | 6 Ft. |
| POWER | High | High | High | High |
| HIT OR MISS | Hit | Hit | Hit | Miss |
| ERRATIC(Yes orNo) | No | No | No | No |
| MARK TORPEDO | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 |
| SERIAL NUMBER | 54458 | 54515 | 54355 | 54448 |
| MK EXPLODER | 4-2 | 4-2 | 4-2 | 4-2 |
| SERIAL NUMBER | 8239 | 8291 | 8324 | 8305 |
| ACTUATION SET | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact |
| ACTUATION ACTUAL | Contact | Contact | Contact | None |
| M. K WARHEAD | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| SERIAL NUMBER | 1899 | 1708 | 1833 | 1712 |
| EXPLOSIVE | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex |
| FIRING INTERVAL | 0 | 10 Sec. | 10 Sec. | 10 Sec. |
| TYPE SPREAD | Divergent | Divergent | Divergent | Divergent |
| SEA CONDITIONS | Calm | Calm | Calm | Calm |
| OVERHAUL ACTIV. | PHTH | PHTH | PHTH | PHTH |
| REMARKS | | | | |

-38-

— page 49 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

U.S.S. PLAICE TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL NO. 1
Time: 0155 (J) Date: 5 July 1944 Latitude: 27-43 N Longitude: 141-02 E
Target Data --- Damage Inflicted

Description: One large AK or AP of AFRICA MARU Class was being escorted
by a MINEKAZE Class Destroyer, about 500 yards astern. SJ radar made
initial contact at 12,000 yards. The night was clear except for a light
surface haze and the moon was full. Sighted target at 8,500 yards and
escort at 6,800 yards.

Ship(s) Sunk: One AK or AP of AFRICA MARU Class, 9,476 tons: (See page
99 of ONI 208-J (Revised)).

Ship(s) damaged or None. Destroyer sighted torpedo wakes and avoided
probably sunk: by paralleling to torpedo tracks.

Damage determined by: Watched target completely disintegrate and sink
in less than one minute. It must have been carrying explosives. The
main explosion was too large to determine whether or not the second
and third torpedoes hit.

Target Draft 25 Ft. Course 310 Speed 11 Range 3,000 Yds(at firing)
             9½           310      11      2,600

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 18 Course 220 Depth Surface Angle 0° (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Made night surface radar approach at high speed from down
moon. Used radar ranges and TBT bearings in attack phase. Solution in
TDC checked perfectly. Did not have to correct range or bearing during the
last five minutes. First torpedo hit about 20 feet abaft bridge. Wakes
of second and third torpedoes were seen heading straight for the target.
Because of the 3,000 yard range, used no spread. There appeared to be
very little dispersion. Fired three torpedoes at escort as soon as the
set up could be shifted. These went out with 25° left gyros for a 65°
track. The target sighted the wakes about 1,000 yards from him and
turned toward to successfully avoid. This occurred before the torpedoes
hit the other target. Because of the shorter range, used 1° divergent
spread, the first shot aimed aft.

-39-

— page 50 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
ATTACK NO. 2 & 3.

| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TUBES FIRED | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| TRACK ANGLE | 90 S | 91 S | 92 S | 65 S |
| GYRO ANGLE | 358½ | 359 | 001 | 333 |
| DEPTH SET | 10 Ft. | 10 Ft. | 10 Ft. | 7 Ft. |
| POWER | High | High | High | High |
| HIT OR MISS | Hit | Unk | Unk | Miss |
| ERRATIC(YES-NO) | No | No | No | No |
| MARK TORPEDO | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 |
| SERIAL NUMBER | 52886 | 49305 | 41634 | 61629 |
| MARK EXPLODER | 6-4 | 6-4 | 6-4 | 6-4 |
| SERIAL NUMBER | 18510 | 10112 | 18525 | 135 |
| ACTUATION SET | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact |
| ACTUATION ACTUAL | Contact | Contact | Contact | None |
| MARK WARHEAD | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16 | 16-1 |
| SERIAL NUMBER | 12732 | 13783 | 1769 | 17061 |
| EXPLOSIVE | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex | Torpex |
| FIRING INTERVAL | 0 | 8 Secs. | 8 Secs. | 0 |
| TYPE SPREAD | None | None | None | Divergent |
| SEA CONDITIONS | Flat Calm | Flat Calm | Flat Calm | Flat Calm |
| OVERHAUL ACTIV. | PHTH | PHTH | PHTH | PHTH |
| REMARKS | Three probable hits | | | Target |
| | | | | avoided |

-40-

— page 51 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 PATROL NO. 1
Time: 0202 (J) Date: 5 July 1944 Lat. 27-43 N Long. 141-02 E

Target Data - - - Damage Inflicted

Description: One destroyer of the MINEKAZE Class was chasing us on the
surface after torpedo attack No. 2. The ship he was escorting disintegrated,
leaving no chance of rescuing survivors.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) damaged or
probably sunk: None. About ten seconds after the last torpedo left, the
target suddenly turned to starboard and started dropping depth charges.

Damage determined by: No damage.

Target Draft 9½' Course 030 Speed 24 Range 2,000Yds (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 19 Course 030 Depth- Surface Angle 0° (at firing).

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type attack: Was making full speed escaping after attack No. 2, in which a
large freighter or troop transport was sunk and the same destroyer avoided by sighting
torpedo wakes. With the target dead astern and zero angle on the bow, fired
four electric torpedoes for an 1,100 yard run. Used the TDC with radar
ranges and bearings and TBT bearings. Misses resulted from the target's
turning to drop depth charges and probably from the difficulty of holding
a steady course at full surface speed.

-41-

— page 52 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
ATTACK # 3 (Cont'd)
[HANDWRITTEN: #2]

TUBES FIRED         : 5       : 6       : 7       : 8       : 9       : 10
TRACK ANGLE         : 66 S    : 68 S    : O       : ½ S     : ½ P     : O
GYRO ANGLE          : 334     : 336     : 178     : 177     : 176½    : 177
DEPTH SET           : 7 Ft.   : 7 Ft.   : 4 Ft.   : 4 Ft.   : 4 Ft.   : 4 Ft.
POWER               : High    : High    : High    : High    : High    : High
HIT OR MISS         : Miss    : Miss    : Miss    : Miss    : Miss    : Miss
ERRATIC(YES-NO)     : No      : No      : No      : No      : No      : No
MARK TORPEDO        : 14-3A   : 14-3A   : 18-1    : 18-1    : 18-1    : 18-1
SERIAL NUMBER       : 26360   : 40743   : 54525   : 54548   : 54510   : 54615
MARK EXPLODER       : 6-4     : 6-4     : 8-5     : 8-5     : 8-5     : 8-5
SERIAL              : 3092    : 9362    : 8342    : 8318    : 8374    : 8125
ACTUATION SET       : Contact : Contact : Contact : Contact : Contact : Contact
ACTUATION ACTUAL    : None    : None    : None    : None    : None    : None
MARK WARHEAD        : 16      : 16      : 18-1    : 18-1    : 18-1    : 18-1
SERIAL NUMBER       : 1825    : 2976    : 1624    : 1828    : 1853    : 1636
EXPLOSIVE           : Torpex  : Torpex  : Torpex  : Torpex  : Torpex  : Torpex
FIRING INTERVAL     : 8 Secs. : 8 Secs. : O       : 10 Secs.: 10 Secs.: 10 Secs.
TYPE SPREAD         : Diverg. : Diverg. : Diverg. : Diverg. : Diverg. : Diverg.
                    : Calm    : Calm    : Calm    : Calm    : Calm    : Calm
SEA CONDITIONS      : Flat    : Flat    : Flat    : Flat    : Flat    : Flat
                    : Calm    : Calm    : Calm    : Calm    : Calm    : Calm
OVERHAUL ACTIV.     : PHTH    : PHTH    : PHTH    : PHTH    : PHTH    : PHTH
REMARKS             : Target avoided - Ship was not steady on course

-42-

— page 53 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4 PATROL NO. 1

Time: 0004 (I) Date: July 18, 1944 Lat. 29-22 N Long. 139-14 E

Target Data - - - Damage Inflicted

Description: Convoy consisted of at least 4 freighters escorted by 4
radar equipped escorts. Two escorts were sighted. One was a TERUTSUKI
Class and the other a SHIGURE Class destroyer. None of the merchantmen
could be identified, but two were unusually large. Formation consisted
of two columns with escorts 5,000 to 6,000 yards broad on each bow and
quarter.

Ship(s) Sunk: One SHIGURE Class Destroyer.

Ship(s) damaged or
probably sunk: None.

Damage determined by: Heard three timed hits. Saw flashes of two hits.
Target disappeared from sight and radar screen simultaneously at 4,000
yards within one minute after being hit.

Target Draft [HANDWRITTEN: 9'] Course [HANDWRITTEN: 145] Speed [HANDWRITTEN: 7] Range [HANDWRITTEN: 3,800] (at firing).

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed [HANDWRITTEN: 18] Course [HANDWRITTEN: 255] Depth [HANDWRITTEN: Surface] Angle [HANDWRITTEN: 0°] (at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type attack: Convoy was using a constant helm superimposed on a zig zag
plan. Time of logs was 10 and 15 minutes. Targets oscillated 40° on
either side of base course. Made attack from port quarter of convoy
after being driven off three times by escorts when attempting attacks
from ahead and the flank. Escorts appeared to make radar contact at
5,000 to 6,000 yards. When we retired they would return to station
4,000 yards off the convoy track. Decided the only shot possible was
a long range shot at an escort from his quarter. Caught him on the
near limit of the oscillation of the constant helm. Fired four torpedoes
with no spread sue to the long range. To get three hits on a 341 foot
target the dispersion must not have been large. See Radar Section for
list of radar frequencies used by the escorts.

-43-

— page 54 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

ATTACK NO. 4

TUBES FIRED : 1 : 2 : 3 : 4
: : : :
TRACK ANGLE : 76 P : 77 P : 77 P : 78P
: : : :
GYRO ANGLE : 354-40 : 354-10 : 353-40 : 353-05
: : : :
DEPTH SET : 6 Ft. : 6 Ft. : 6 Ft. : 6 Ft.
: : : :
POWER : High : High : High : High
: : : :
HIT OR MISS : Miss : Hit : Hit : Hit
: : : :
ERRATIC(YES-NO) : No : No : No : No
: : : :
MARK TORPEDO : 23 : 23 : 23 : 23
: : : :
SERIAL NUMBER : 41242 : 41810 : 61696 : 41550
: : : :
MARK EXPLODER : 6-4 : 6-4 : 6-4 : 6-4
: : : :
SERIAL NUMBER : 1003 : 18501 : 2036 : 18513
: : : :
ACTUATION SET : Contact : Contact : Contact : Contact
: : : :
ACTUATION ACTUAL : None : Contact : Contact : Contact
: : : :
MARK WARHEAD : 16-1 : 16-1 : 16-1 : 16-1
: : : :
SERIAL NUMBER : 12768 : 4155 : 13364 : 2508
: : : :
EXPLOSIVE : Torpex : Torpex : Torpex : Torpex
: : : :
FIRING INTERVAL : 0 : 10 : 20 : 30
: : : :
TYPE SPREAD : Normal : Normal : Normal : Normal
: Dispers. : Dispers. : Dispers. : Dispers.
: : : :
SEA CONDITIONS : 2 : 2 : 2 : 2
: : : :
OVERHAUL ACTIV. : PHTH : PHTH : PHTH : PHTH
: : : :
REMARKS : : : :

-44-

— page 55 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

(I) MINES.

No mining activity was observed. No mines were encountered
up to the 50 fathom curve during the carrier strike, while off the west coast
of CHICHI JIMA.

(J) ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

Patrol activity around the BONINS is carried out princi-
pally by aircraft. The radius of activity appears to be about 200 miles.
Search planes seemed to depart at about four hour intervals starting at
0800 Zone minus 9 time. Plane types observed were NELL, EMILY, RUFE and
TOPSY, with NELL the most common. The aircraft patrol was continued at
night. More aircraft contacts were made on dark nights than on moonlight
nights. At night there was no definite evidence of aircraft radar. One
armed trawler was observed patrolling north of MUKO JIMA RETTO.
Only one convoy was heavily escorted. This consisted of
a reported six ships and four destroyers. When contacted, four distinct
radars were heard on the APR. The escorts were out about 4,000 yards from
the convoy track, broad on each bow and quarter. These escorts either could
not decide whether or not they had definite contact or they were reluctant
to leave the formation. One group of two medium freighters was escorted by
a single armed trawler, who kept on one flank. The trawler was apparently
equipped for listening only. The single large able king or able peter was
escorted by a lone destroyer which kept station astern.
Shore radar stations were located on CHICHI JIMA, in the
MUKO JIMA RETTO, MARCUS ISLAND, and probably on IWO JIMA. HAHA JIMA was too
close to CHICHI JIMA to tell whether there were two stations on CHICHI JIMA
or one each on CHICHI and HAHA. There was no definite evidence of our having
been picked up by any of these radars, although some of the night aircraft
contacts may have been on planes sent out to investigate a suspected contact.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

Performance of the engineering plant and auxiliaries was
excellent. The only casualty of the patrol was a fire in the main control
cubicle which was caused by burning out of a main generator field resistance.
The source was located and the circuit killed before serious harm was done.
The dead reckoning tracer was a disappointment. Despite
daily tests, it would slip and give faulty tracking results. The contrary
beast will not slip under test.

-45-

— page 56 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (Cont'd)

ORDNANCE REPORT - MARK 18 TORPEDOES.

Eight Mark 18 Torpedoes were carried aft. No special
difficulty in upkeep and maintenance was experienced. Torpedoes were
charged every six days regardless of gravity drop; two torpedoes in parallel,
one in the racks and one pulled halfway from the corresponding tube, were
charged simultaneously until the voltages were constant for one hour. Two
hydrogen burners burned out, but aside from this expected expenditure, no
deficiencies or failures were noted.

PERFORMANCE

Three hits were obtained with the first four torpedoes in
spite of the fact that gyro angles as large as sixty-five degrees were neces-
sitated by a sudden zig of the target just prior to firing. Angle perform-
ance with large gyro angles is believed to have been excellent.
Misses with the second salvo of four torpedoes are not
attributed to any failure in torpedo performance.

GENERAL COMMENTS

The experience and knowledge acquired by torpedomen at the
Mark 18 School, Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H., is believed to have been
of indispensable value in the routine maintenance of this torpedo.
The Commanding Officer, Torpedo Officer, and after torpedo
room crew are well satisfied with the electric torpedo and anxious to take
it out again on the next patrol. The wakeless performance of the torpedoes
was particularly gratifying in our daylight attack when the escort vessel
was completely bewildered as to our position.

MARK 23 TORPEDOES - GENERAL COMMENTS

Thirteen Mark 23 Torpedoes and three Mark 14-3A torpedoes
were loaded in the forward torpedo room. The torpedoes were received in
excellent conditions and no deficiencies in upkeep or maintenance were exper-
ienced. The ten torpedoes fired were all observed to run hot, straight and
normal, and the performance of the Mark 6-4 Exploder is believed to have been
perfect.

-46-

— page 57 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial ( 018 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

25 July 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.
MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (Cont'd)

4 INCH GUN
The starboard holding-down dog on the watertight breech
cover of the four inch gun failed as a result of depth charge attack.
Apparently only a slight shock was necessary to cause this failure as the
broken part was observed to be crystallized. The gun was flooded as a result
of this failure. The broken dog was reversed as an emergency measure for
holding the breech cover in place.

(L) RADIO
Low frequency schedules were never copyable during daylight,
surfaced or submerged. The SD radar completely blocked high frequency re-
ception. Low frequency schedules at night were reliably copied. Serials 15
and 26 were missed, probably because of being forced down by night flying
aircraft.
Transmission was always made on 8470 Kc's without difficulty.
Material performance was excellent. During deep submergence
after the 30 June attack, the hull leaked through a faulty weld in a hard
patch over the TBL transmitter, completely grounding out the low frequency
side. It was wiped, dried and back in operation in four hours.
Occasional jamming on 8470 Kc's was noted but it was never
serious. One June 19th, a strong CW note interfered with 9090 Kc's in Lat.
29-32 N, 139-49 E for 13 hours.
When close to CHICHI JIMA, occasionally NPM schedules were
interfered with, but it is not believed to have been intentional.
Our serials three and four were receipted for by very
strong signals using our Q signals correctly. The first time the call for
Radio Oakland, California was used. There was no authentication. The
probable source was CHICHI JIMA.

Last Serial Sent [HANDWRITTEN: #5]
Last Serial Received [HANDWRITTEN: #63]
-47-

— page 58 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial (018)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.
(M) RADAR.

Neither radar suffered any major derangements, but both
sets were plagued with minor ones. Chief offenders were the SD and the
PPI Scope of the SJ.
During the Pearl Harbor loading period, the SD frequency
was lowered from 115 mcs. to 11 mcs. Ever since, the oscillation has
been unstable and the effective range lowered. The set would drop out
of oscillation at least once an hour for periods ranging from a few
seconds to several minutes. (See detailed remarks dated June 4, 1944).
Once the APR picked up a 140 mc. contact which shifted frequency until
it exactly matched our SD and then did a splendid job of jamming. This
experience convinces the Commanding Officer that shifting the SD a few
megacycles off resonant frequency provides no worthwhile deception, and
seriously impairs efficiency. There was no positive evidence that the
SD was being homed by planes, but on several occasions, SD contacts were
preceded by interference on the scope. As the patrol progressed, the SD
became more subject to interference believed to be caused internally.
Most of the troubles in the PPI were traced to poor tube
sockets and loose connections. The interior of this unit shows strong
evidence of hasty manufacture. It went out of commission an average of
three times every two nights.
The APR was a valuable addition. Its usefulness was
greatly increased by connecting it to the 5" oscillograph. This in-
creased the sensitivity, simplified separation of received signals from
internal interference and enabled the pulse rate to be obtained. Internal
interference caused by the SD was noted over the entire listening range.
A sub-harmonic of the SD created interference on 390 mcs. and unknown
sources created interference without definite pulse rated on 690 and
1000 mcs. During the carrier strike, our own voice circuit was heard
at 140 mcs. clearly enough to be intelligible. APR contacts on 317, 325
and between 220 and 250 mcs. were on some occasions followed by aircraft
contacts. Unfortunately, nearly all the suspected aircraft transmissions
faded too much to permit collection of good data. Listed below are those
transmissions considered reliable enough for record purposes:

- 48 -
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

25 July 1944.

— page 59 —
SS390/A16-4
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
% Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.
Serial: 018

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

— page 60 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial (018)

                                                                U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
                                                                25 July 1944.
Subject:        U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

— page 62 —
SS390/A16-4
Serial (018).
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

25 July 1944.

RADAR (Cont'd).

7-14-44 . Receiver gain control worked irregularly. Found bad
potentiometer P4. Had one spot that was burned and
the resistance wire was broken in one spot. Receiver
gain was much better after replacing potentiometer.

Also LP regulator tube on PPI was flashing on and off when
LP tube was out the sweep on the scope did not return to
center. Found R44 in intensifier circuit was opened but
was irregularly arcing across. Operated normally when
R44 was replaced.

7-15-44 Low crystal current, low sensitivity, and jittery trans-
mitter pulse. Due to low voltage output from #1 regulated
rectifier unit because of a bad 5U4G tube.

7-17-44 Jittery transmitter pulse on range scope. Found other
5U4G in regulated rectifier had gone bad (glowing blue)
and giving low voltage output.

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS.

The continual presence of density layers is believed to
account for sound conditions never better than fair. During July, flat
calms were very prevalent, producing gradients at the surface.
The JP sound receiver suffered a serious and unexplained
loss in sensitivity. No shipboard tests have located the cause.
Short listening ranges were probably due to temperature
gradients rather than a fault of the WCA-2 equipment.

- 52 -

— page 65 —
SS390/A16-4                               U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Serial (018)                                 Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                             San Francisco, California.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L                                            25 July 1944

Subject:      U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number One.

— page 67 —
FB5-62/A16-3
Serial # 30
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
USS PLAICE, Report of
War Patrol No. 1 dated
25 July 1944.

SUBMARINE DIVISION SIXTY TWO
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
26 July 1944.

From: The Commander Submarine Division SIXTY TWO.
To : The Commander in Chief, U. S. Fleet.
Via : The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, Subordinate Command,
Navy Number 1504.
The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
The Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE -- Report of War Patrol Number One.

1. The first war patrol of the PLAICE covered a total period of 52 days,
33 of which were spent patrolling the assigned area in the Bonin Islands. Eighteen
days of the patrol was spent submerged.

2. PLAICE performed life guard duty on 4 July during the air strike on
CHICHI JIMA for which she had a ringside seat. Communications with their fighter
escort were extremely satisfactory and PLAICE did an excellent job of searching on
the surface undeterred by intensive accurate gun fire from the shore batteries.
She was forced to submerge twice for short periods (at 6000 and 3000 yards off shore)
when the shells began to straddle close aboard. It is unfortunate that none of the
downed aviators could be rescued. The photographic panorama taken should prove of
considerable interest.

3. Four attacks were made during which eighteen torpedoes were fired
for seven or possibly nine hits.

Attack No. 1 - During the mid afternoon of 30 June while patrolling
submerged a convoy of two freighters escorted by a trawler type escort was sighted
steering a regular zig zag superimposed on a constant helm. With both freighters
in line, ranges 800 and 700, fired four mark 18 torpedoes, track angles 110 to
127 port and gyros 143 to 115°, depth setting 6 feet. As PLAICE was 300 yards on
escorts quarter when firing she went deep and from timed explosions estimated two
hits in the near target, a 4,000 ton SAMARANG MARU, and one hit in a 4,000 ton
HAKOZAKU MARU type. Two definite sets of breaking up noises were heard on true
bearings corresponding with ships positions and both ships are believed to have sunk.
The escort over a two hour period dropped 31 depth charges at random none of which
were close. However this is believed to be an indication that the escort's duties
as far as his two ships were concerned were at an end both having been sunk.

Attack No. 2 and 3. - In a surface radar attack during the night of
5 July a 9,500 freighter or transport of the AFRICA MARU class with MINEKASE class
DD escort was tracked in from 12,000 yards and sunk with one - possibly three mark
23 torpedo hits fired at a range of 3,000 yards on a 90 starboard track with a
depth set at 10 feet. The ships sides were seen to burst and ship sank in less
than a minute. At the same time the remaining three bow tubes were fired at the

— page 68 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION SIXTY TWO

                                                                26 July 1944.

FB5-62/A16-3
Serial # 30
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
USS PLAICE, Report of
War Patrol No. 1 dated
25 July 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number One.

Attack No. 3 - At 0342 on 12 July on the surface, PLAICE sighted an
escort, range 2,400, on a 65° track with depth set at 7 feet. Escort having
sighted wakes changed course to evade and gave chase. When dead astern of PLAICE,
with a torpedo run of 1,000 yards and zero angle on bow, four mark 18's were fired
down the throat. Ten seconds after firing escort changed course to drop some
depth charges and all torpedoes missed. PLAICE with all tubes empty cleared the
area.

Attack No. 4 - At midnight on 13 July on the surface, after three un-
successful attempts to pierce the screen of escorts around a four ship convoy,
four mark 23 torpedoes were fired at a SHIGURE class destroyer escort range
3,800 yards, on a 77 degree port track with depth set at 6 feet. PLAICE turned
away at 18 knots. Flashes of two hits were seen and three hits heard. Personnel
on bridge saw this ship disappear and at the same time conning tower reported that
target pip had disappeared from radar screen.

4. An investigation is being conducted in an attempt to reveal the
cause of the 17 day epidemic of gastric disorders which affected sixty of PLAICE
personnel. The symptoms indicate the possibility of a gas poisoning such as
might result from carbon tetrachloride fumes.

5. PLAICE returned from patrol in excellent material condition and
will be given a normal refit by Division SIXTY TWO relief crew assisted by the
Submarine Base, Midway.

6. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the PLAICE are
heartily congratulated on the extensive damage they inflicted on the enemy and on
the efficient execution of their assigned life guard duties during the CHICHI JIMA
air strike. It is recommended that the following damage to the enemy be credited:

                                                                SUNK

1 Freighter (SAMARANG MARU Class) (EU) -                        4,000 tons
1 Freighter (HAKOZAKI MARU Class) (EU) -                        4,000 tons
1 Freighter
or Transport (AFRICA MARU Class) (EC) -                         9,500 tons
1 Destroyer (SHIGURE Class) (EC) -                              1,368 tons
                                                                TOTAL 18,868 tons

                                                                J. M. WILL.

— page 69 —
A16-3 COMMANDER SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET, (Mo)
SUBORDINATE COMMAND, NAVY NO. 1504.

Serial No. 0123 Care of Fleet Post Office,
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L San Francisco, California,
26 July 1944.

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
USS PLAICE Report of
War Patrol No. 1 dated
25 July 1944.

From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet,
Subordinate Command, Navy No. 1504.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(2) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number ONE.

1. Forwarded concurring in the remarks contained
in the first endorsement. PLAICE is congratulated on this
excellently conducted and productive first war patrol. Damage
as recommended by Commander Submarine Division SIXTY-TWO is con-
curred in.

[HANDWRITTEN SIGNATURE]
C. D. EDMUNDS.

Copy to:
Comsubdiv 62
CO, USS PLAICE.

— page 70 —
FF12-10/A16-3(15)/(16)
Serial 01587
CONFIDENTIAL
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
First War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 488.
U.S.S. PLAICE - FIRST 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. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of First War Patrol.
(4 June to 25 July 1944).

1. The first war patrol of the PLAICE was the first for
the new Commanding Officer, as such. The patrol was conducted in the
Bonin Islands Area.

2. The PLAICE conducted an aggressive and successful first
war patrol. Four well planned and successful attacks were carried out.
The attack resulting in the sinking of a SHIGURE class destroyer was
particularly outstanding.

3. In addition to conducting an offensive patrol, the
PLAICE also performed lifeguard duty during the Chichi Jima carrier
strike. Although no rescues were effected, the PLAICE made dangerous
surface searches under enemy shell fire close to the coast looking for
downed aviators.

4. The unusual epidemic is being investigated by the Force
Medical Officer.

5. This patrol is designated as "Successful" for Combat
Insignia Award.

6. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratu-
lates the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for this aggressive
and successful first war patrol. The PLAICE is credited with having
inflicted the following damage upon the enemy:

S U N K

1 - Freighter (SAMARANG MARU
class) (EU) - 4,000 tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - Freighter (HAKOZAKU MARU
class) (EU) - 4,000 tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - Passenger Freighter (AFRICA MARU
class) (EC) - 9,500 tons (Attack No. 2)
1 - Destroyer (SHIGURE class) (EC) - 1,400 tons (Attack No. 4)
TOTAL 18,900 tons

Distribution and authentication
on following page.

- 1 - C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
hch
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
2 Aug 1944.
[STAMP: 3 AUG 1944]

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

— page 71 —
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
hch
FF12-10/A16-3(15)/(16)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial 01587
San Francisco, California,
2 Aug 1944.
CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
First War Patrol.
NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
DESTROYED PRIOR TO
ENTERING PATROL AREA.
COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 488.
U.S.S. PLAICE - FIRST WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of First War Patrol.
(4 June to 25 July 1944).

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
CominCh (7)
CNO (5)
CinCpac (6)
Intel.Cen.Pac.Ocean Areas (1)
ComServPac (1)
CinClant (1)
ComSubLant (8)
S/M School, NL (2)
ComSoPac (2)
ComSowesPac (2)
ComSubSowesPac (1)
CTF 72 (2)
ComNorPac (2)
ComSubspac (1)
SUBAD, MI (40)
ComSubspacSubOrdCom (2)
All Squadron and Division (3)
Commanders, SubsPac (2)
ComSubTrainPac (2)
All Submarines, SubsPac (1)

[SIGNATURE: E. L. Hynes] [HANDWRITTEN: and]
E. L. HYNES, 2nd,
Flag Secretary.

— page 72 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]

SS390/A16-3

Serial ( 026 )
DECLASSIFIED
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
October 12, 1944.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number Two.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart. (To Comsubpac only).
(C) Sketch of Auxiliary Cruiser (To Comsubpac only).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the Second War Patrol of this
vessel conducted in the NANSEI SHOTO area during the period 17 August
1944 to 12 October 1944, is forwarded herewith.

C.B. STEVENS, Jr.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/31/72]
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 92254]

— page 73 —
SS390/A16-3
Serial ( 026 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
October 12, 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Two.

A. PROLOGUE.

Moored to Bert 3, U.S. Submarine Base, MIDWAY ISLANDS,
T.H. at 1050 (Y) July 25, 1944, completing First War Patrol. Reported to
the Commander Submarine Force, Subordinate Command, Midway Islands, T.H.,
the Commander Submarine Squadron SIX and Commander Submarine Division SIXTY
TWO for administration. Was assigned to Submarine Base, Midway Islands, T.H.
for refit. Electrolyte analysis disclosed .024% perchlorates in main
battery electrolyte. No facilities existed at Midway for electrolyte re-
newal. Situation reported in C.O., U.S.S. PLAICE Rstr. Ltr. SS390/S62
Serial 96 of August 2, 1944. Discovered spalling pits on main reduction
gears. Reported condition in C.O., U.S.S. PLAICE Conf. Ltr. SS390/S42
Serial 020 of August 12, 1944.

Lieutenant Commander Luther R. JOHNSON, U.S. Navy, was
detached and reported to the U.S.S. GUARDFISH for duty as Executive Officr
Lieutenant (j.g.) William R. SAMS, D-V(G), U.S.N.R. reported for duty fro
Submarine Division SIXTY TWO Relief Crews. Overhauled #1 and #4 main
engines. Drydocked in ARD-8. Renewed gaskets on #7 main ballast tank
starboard vent riser. Performed the following alterations:

Removed keying switch from SD-4 Radar.

Installed telegraphic key and relay in SJ-1 Radar.

Altered SJ-1 antenna feeder assembly. (Field changes #20 & #21).

Installed wavemeter receptacle in SJ-1 Radar (Field change #12).

Installed slotted antenna reflector in SJ-1 Radar (Field change
#16).

Modified torpedo tube dep index to single setting.

Installed cutter type torpedo tube rollers in forward tubes.

Installed two Ward-Leonard torpedo charging panels forward.

Modified after torpedo handling derrick to be portable.

Conducted three days training against medium speed
screened target. Fired three exercise torpedoes. Badly leaking #7
starboard vent riser necessitated drydocking after training period.

-1-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 74 —
. SS390/A16-3
Serial ( 026 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California,
                                                                October 12, 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Two.

A.
PROLOGUE (Cont'd).

Submarine Base renewed "dutchman" section of vent riser and all flange
bolts. Riser tested satisfactorily at test depth. Loaded fuel, lubri-
cating oil, provisions and torpedoes during night of 16-17 August.
Not depermed nor wiped. Received underway portion only of sound test,
showing high noise level in reduction gears. Torpedo armament is 24
Mark 18 Torpedoes.

B.
NARRATIVE.

August 17, 1944
1531 (Y) Underway from Berth S-1, U.S. Submarine Base, MIDWAY
         ISLANDS, T.H., for patrol area. Escorted by 2 aircraft.
         Contact #1.

1727 (Y) Submerged.
1742 (Y) Surfaced.

August 18, 1944
0503 (Y) Submerged.
0532 (Y) Surfaced.

August 19, 1944
0300 (Y) Crossed international date line. Changed date and time
         zone to minus 12.

August 20, 1944
0537 (M) Submerged.
0621 (M) Surfaced.
1520 (M) Submerged for drills.
1600 (M) Surfaced.

August 21, 1944
0546 (M) Submerged.
0632 (M) Surfaced.
2100 (M) Set clock back one hour to zone minus 11.
                                                                ENCLOSURE (A)
                                  -2-

— page 92 —
SS390/A16-3
Serial ( 026 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390).
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
October 12, 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Two.

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd).

1051 (I) SD Contact 9 miles. Aircraft contact #10.
Submerged. Spent the remainder of the day
searching submerged, but could find no trace
of survivors or wreckage.

1903 (I) Surfaced.

2054 (I) Sighted small patrol boat or sampan. Avoided.
Contact #24.

September 28, 1944.

0535 (I) Submerged.

0612 (I) Surfaced.

0906 (I) Sighted formation of about 30 planes, probably
headed for DAITO JIMA. Submerged. Aircraft
contact #11.

1006 (I) Surfaced.

1112 (I) Sighted formation of about 8 planes on same
course as previous group. Submerged. Air-
craft contact #12.

1213 (I) Surfaced.

1914 (I) to Renewed three more main motor brushes.
2149 (I) Rigged #3 and #5 Fuel Ballast Tanks as
Main Ballast Tanks.

2216 (I) SJ contact at 5,000 yards. When sighted, it
appeared as though it might be a friendly
submarine or a large sampan. No reply received
on SJ. Because we expected to make a friendly
submarine contact, avoided. Contact #25.

-9- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 99 —
SS390/A16-3
Serial ( 026 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
October 12, 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Two.

— page 100 —
SS390/A16-3

CONFIDENTIAL

F. SHIP CONTACTS.

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
October 12, 1944.

| No. | Time | Lat. | Type(s) | Initial | Course | How |
| : | Date | Long. | : | Range | Speed | Contacted |
| : | 0702 I | 29-20-00N | (3) | 12,000 | Unk | Submerged |
| 19 | 9/24/44 | 129-17-45E | Sail Boats | Yards | Unk | Periscope |
| : | 0712 I | 29-27-00N | 2 Fuso Class | 15,000 | 240 | Submerged |
| 20 | 9/24/44 | 129-46 E | Battleships | Yards | 15 Kts | Periscope |
| : | 0716 I | 29-27-00N | 4 Asashio | 12,000 | 240 | Submerged |
| 21 | 9/24/44 | 129-46 E | Class DD's | Yards | 15 Kts | Periscope |
| : | 1313 I | 29-38-18N | : | 5,500 | 280 | Submerged |
| 22 | 9/26/44 | 128-27-30E | Sampans | Yards | Unk | Periscope |
| : | 2313 I | 29-12-00N | : | 20,450 | 065 | |
| 23 | 9/26/44 | 127-49 E | Convoy | Yards | 13 Kts | Radar |
| : | 2054 I | 29-48-50N | Patrol or | 8,000 | 080 | |
| 24 | 9/27/44 | 129-01 E | Fishing Boat | Yards | Unk | Sight |
| : | 2216 I | 29-08-30N | : | 5,500 | Unk | |
| 25 | 9/28/44 | 134-23-50E | Unknown | Yards | Unk | Radar |
| : | 1201 K | 29-17-15N | Fishing | 15,000 | 355 | Surface |
| 26 | 9/30/44 | 138-51-24E | Boat | Yards | 9 Kts | Periscope |
| : | 2223 K | 29-08-30N | : | 17,000 | 120 | |
| 27 | 9/30/44 | 138-32-30E | Trawler | Yards | 3 Kts | Lookout |
| : | 1825 K | 29-57-00N | Fishing | 15,000 | | Surface |
| 28 | 10/1/44 | 140-26 E | Boat | Yards | | Periscope |

| No. | Remarks |
| : | |
| 19 | Fishing Fleet. |
| : | |
| 20 | 2 FUSO Class Battleships. Attack #2. |
| : | |
| 21 | 4 Destroyers, one of ASASHIO Class. Attack #2. |
| : | |
| 22 | Small sampan. |
| : | |
| 23 | Transport, freighter and 3 escorts. Attack #3. |
| : | |
| 24 | About 100 tons. |
| : | |
| 25 | Contact turned away. Possibly friendly submarine. |
| : | |
| 26 | Small catcher type. |
| : | |
| 27 | Trawler or large catcher type. |
| : | |
| 28 | Probably large catcher or trawler. |

-28-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 101 —
SS390/A16-3

CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
October 12, 1944.

F. SHIP CONTACTS.

| : Time : Lat. | : | : Initial : Course : How |
| No. : Date : Long. | Type(s) : Range : Speed : Contacted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | :0939 I : 27-26 N | Mutsuki DD | : 17,000 | : 010 | Sound |
| | :9/9/44 : 126-54 E | | : Yards | : 19 Kts: | Periscope |
| 11 | :0939 I : 27-26 N | Aux. Cruiser | : 20,000 | : 010 | Sound |
| | :9/9/44 : 126-54 E | | : Yards | : 19 Kts: | Periscope |
| 12 | :1322 I : 28-47-35N | Freighter | : 20,000 | : 270 | Sound |
| | :9/13/44:129-25-30E | | : Yards | : ? | Periscope |
| 13 | :1138 I : 26-17.5N | Sail Boat | : 15,000 | : 315 | Lookout |
| | :9/14/44: 129-20 E | | : Yards | : Unk | : Unk |
| 14 | :2052 I : 26-12-15N | Sail Boat | : 8,800 | : 260 | Radar |
| | :9/14/44: 128-44 E | (9) | : Yards | : 3 Kts | Submerged |
| 15 | :1530 I : 26-11 N | Sail Boats | : 8,000 | : 300 | Periscope |
| | :9/18/44: 128-03 E | Hospital | : Yards | : ? | Radar & |
| 16 | :2230 I : 26-26 N | Ship | : 27,450 | : 240 | Sight |
| | :9/18/44: 128-56 E | (3) | : Yards | : 18 Kts: | Radar & |
| 17 | :0400 I : 25-55-15N | Sampans | : 5,000 | : Unk | Sight |
| | :9/20/44:128-11-45E | (6) | : Yards | : Unk | | Radar |
| 18 | :2312 I : 25-50.3N | Sampans | : 4,000 | : Unk | | |
| | :9/20/44:128-16-45E | | : Yards | : Unk | | |

| : |
| No. : Remarks |
|---|---|
| 10 | Mutsuki Class DD. Same as #8. Attack #1 |
| 11 | KONGO MARU Class converted to Auxiliary Cruiser. Same as #9. Attack #1 |
| 12 | Masts only, probably freighter. |
| 13 | About 50 tons. |
| 14 | Probably same as #13. |
| 15 | Fishing Fleet. |
| 16 | Hospital Ship properly marked. |
| 17 | Sampans. |
| 18 | Small size. |

-29-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 102 —
SS390/A16-3

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390).

                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California,
                                                                October 12, 1944.

CONFIDENTIAL

F. SHIP CONTACTS.

| No. | Time  | Lat.      | Long.     | Type(s)           | Initial Range | Course | Speed   | How Contacted           |
|-----|-------||||||||
| 1   | 1505 K| 29-38N    | 142-45 E  | SS                | 12,000 Yards  | 090    | 14 Kts. | Surface Periscope       |
|     | 8/25/44|           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |
| 2   | 2052 I| 28-59 N   | 128-55 E  | PC or Fisherman   | 7,100 Yards   | 269    | 15 Kts. | Radar                   |
|     | 8/30/44|           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |
| 3   | 0140 I| 28-39 N   | 128-52 E  | PC or Fisherman   | 8,000 Yards   | 269    | 12 Kts. | Sight & Radar           |
|     | 8/31/44|           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |
| 4   | 2330 I| 28-06N    | 127-30N   | Row Boat          | 1,000 Yards   | Adrift |         | Submerged               |
|     | 8/31/44|           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |
| 5   | 0822 I| 26-49N    | 127-21 E  | Sampans (2)       | 8,000 Yards   | 300    | 8 Kts.  | Periscope               |
|     | 9/5/44 |           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |
| 6   | 1330 I| 26-42N    | 127-27 E  | Sampans (3)       | 8,000 Yards   | 100    | 6½ Kts. | Submerged Periscope     |
|     | 9/6/44 |           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |
| 7   | 0844 I| 26-52N    | 127-14 E  | Sampans (2)       | 6,000 Yards   | 087    | 7 Kts.  | Submerged Periscope     |
|     | 9/7/44 |           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |
| 8   | 1315 I| 27-03N    | 127-10 E  | Mutsuki DD        | 5,000 Yards   | 139    | 23 Kts. | Sound - Target Echo Ranging |
|     | 9/7/44 |           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |
| 9   | 1315 I| 27-03N    | 127-10 E  | Aux. Cruiser New type | 4,000 Yards   | 139    | 23 Kts. | Sound                   |
|     | 9/7/44 |           |           |                   |               |        |         |                         |

| No. | Remarks                                                               |
|-----||
| 1   | Submarine                                                             |
|     |                                                                       |
| 2   | Patrol Boat or Fisherman                                              |
|     |                                                                       |
| 3   | Probably same as #2                                                   |
|     |                                                                       |
| 4   | Row Boat - Investigated this row boat (whale type) awash, no          |
|     |            identification, marks, or anything inside.                 |
|     |                                                                       |
| 5   | About 25 tons.                                                        |
|     |                                                                       |
| 6   | About 25 tons.                                                        |
|     |                                                                       |
| 7   | About 25 Tons.                                                        |
|     |                                                                       |
| 8   | Old type destroyer.                                                   |
|     |                                                                       |
| 9   | Tentatively identified as new type cruiser.                           |

                                    -30-                                ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 103 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| CONTACT NUMBER | 1         | 2         | 3         | 4         | 5         | 6         | Date           | 8/17/44   | 8/28/44   | 8/28/44   | 8/28/44   | 9/7/44    | 9/9/44    |
| S              | Time (Zone)| Various   | 0108 I    | 0745 I    | 0955 I    | 0123 I    | 1109 I    |
| U              | Posit. Lat.| MIDWAY    | 28-08 N   | 29-11-N   | 27-13 N   | 27-12 N   | 27-26 N   |
| B              | Long.      | MIDWAY    | 135-43 E  | 134-14 E  | 133-55 E  | 126-38 E  | 126-54E   |
| M              | Speed      | Various   | 14.7      | 12.9      | 14.7      | 8         | 2         |
| A              | Course     | Various   | 273       | 273       | 273       | 120       | 240       |
| R              | Trim       | Surf.     | Surf.     | Surf.     | Surf.     | Surf.     | 64'       |
| I              | MINUTES SINCE| O         | O         | O         | O         | Not       | Not       |
| N              | LAST SD SEARCH|           |           |           |           | manned    | Manned    |
| E              | A              | Number     | Various   | Unk       | 1         | 1         | 1         | Unk       |
| I              | Type       | Various   | Unk       | SALLY     | Unk       | Unk       | Unk       |
| R              | Probable Mission| Escort  | Patrol    | Patrol    | Patrol    | A/S       | Escort    |
| C              |            | SD &      |           |           |           |           | Not       |
| R              | How contacted| Sight     | Sight     | Sight     | Sight     | Sight     | Sighted   |
| A              | Initial Range| Various   | 3 mi.     | 12 mi.    | 9 mi.     | 1½ mi.    | ---       |
| F              | Elevation Angle| Various   | 30°       | 31°       | 4°        | 2°        | ---       |
| T              | Range & Rel Bear|           |           |           |           |           |           |
|                | of Plane when|           |           |           |           |           |           |
|                | detected S/M | Various   | ND        | 175       | 350       | ND        | ---       | C              | (State(Beau)| ---       | 3         | 3         | 3         | 2         | 2         |
| O              | Sea: (for  | ---       | WNW       | WNW       | WNW       | SW        | NE        |
| N              | (Direct.Rel)| ---       | WNW       | WNW       | WNW       | SW        | NE        |
| D              | Visibility(Mile) Unlim| ---       | 6         | 7         | 7         | 7         | 10        |
| I              | Clouds( Ft.)| ---       | 0         | 20,000    | 20,000    | 5,000     | 5,000     |
| T              | (Percent   | ---       | 6         | 2         | 10        | 10        | 8         |
| I              | Overcast:  | ---       | ---       | ---       | ---       | ---       | ---       |
| O              | Bearing(Rel):| ---       | ---       | ---       | ---       | 350       | ---       |
| N              | Moon: Angle| ---       | ---       | ---       | ---       | 65°       | ---       |
| S              | % Illum    | ---       | ---       | ---       | ---       | 60°       | ---       |
||||||||

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Light Gray

-31-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 104 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

CONTACT NUMBER : 7 : 8 : 9 : 10 : 11 : 12
Date : 9/19/44: 9/24/44 : 9/27/44 : 9/27/44 : 9/28/44 : 9/28/44
S Time (Zone : 0524 I : 0716 I : 1044 I : 1051 I : 0906 I : 1112 I
U Posit: Lat. : 26-17 N : 29-20 N : 29-13 N : 29-13 N : 29-17 N : 29-16 N
B
M Long. : 128-14 E : 129-17 E : 128-19 E : 128-19 E : 131-32 E : 131-54 E
A
R Speed : 8 : 2½ : 11 : 16 : 15 : 15
I
N Course : 095 : 097 : 250 : 250 : 090 : 095
E
Trim : Surf. : 62' : 64' : 64' : Surf. : Surf.
Minutes since : Not : Not : : : :
last SD search : Manned : Manned : O : O : O : O

Number : 1 : 1 : Unk : Unk : 30 : 8
A
I Type : Unk : PETE : Unk : Unk : Unk : Unk
R
C Probable Mission: Patrol : Escort : Patrol : Patrol : Unk : Unk
R
A How Contacted : Sight : SD : SD : SD : Sight : Sight
F
T Initial Range : Unk : 3 mi. : 14 Mi. : 9 mi. : 8 mi. : 8 mi.

Elevation Angle : 2° : 40° : Unk : Unk : 3° : 2°
Range & Rel Bear:
of Plane when it: ND : ND : ND : ND : ND : 8 mi.
detected S/M : : : : : : : 355
C State (Beaufort) : 2 : 2 : 2 : 2 : 2 : 2
O Sea:Direct.(Rel : E : ENE : NE : NE : NE : E
N
D Visibility (Miles) : 4 : 10 : 15 : 15 : 15 : 15
I (Height in Ft. : 5,000 : 5,000 : 7,000 : 7,000 : 5,000 : 5,000
T Clouds % Overcast : 2 : 10 : 4 : 4 : 70 : 70
I (Bearing Rel) : - : - : - : - : - : -
O Moon (Angle : - : - : - : - : - : -
N % Illum : - : - : - : - : - : -
S

Type of S/M Camouflage on this patrol Light Gray

-32- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 106 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE
TIME 1102 (I) D.T.

TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORM
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 2
9 September, 1944 LAT. 27-26 N LONG. 126-54 E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION: One auxiliary cruiser converted from KONGO MARU Class (Page 2,
ONI 208-J, Revised) (EC) passenger liner escorted by one MUTSUKI Class
(supplement, ONI 41-42) (EC) destroyer patrolling ahead. See sketch (En-
closure (C) to patrol report) for new silhouette. Target did not appear
to be constant helming but did make frequent and large zigs. (See Enclosure
(C) for rough sketch of altered appearance).

SHIP(S) SUNK: None.

SHIP(S) DAMAGED OR
PROBABLY SUNK: One hit in auxiliary cruiser.

DAMAGE DETERMINED BY: Heard timed explosion characteristic of torpex 2'-55"
after first shot, for a torpedo run of 2,900 yards.

TARGET DRAFT 18' COURSE 040 SPEED 18 RANGE 2,700 Yards (.AT FIRING)

OWN SHIP DATA
SPEED 2 COURSE 123 DEPTH 65' ANGLE 10° UP (.AT FIRING)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA
TYPE ATTACK: Submerged periscope attack. Escort was patrolling 15° right and
left of the base course, 1,500 yards ahead of the cruiser. The target was
making up to 60° turns on 3 to 5 minute legs. The turns were too sharp for
a constant helm plan. Used 105 feet masthead height which gave a TDC solution
of 15 knots. Arbitrarily increased speed 3 knots because of large bow wave,
19 knots from plot, lagging TDC bearings and previous high speed. Approximately
1 minute after firing the last torpedo, target zigged 30° away. Spread was
applied to cover 900 feet of length f[UNCLEAR: rom] aft forward. Both explosion time
and sound bearings indicated that fir[UNCLEAR: st] torpedo hit and the remainder of the
salvo missed ahead.

-34-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 107 —
_CONFIDENTIAL_
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
_TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER ONE._

_TUBES FIRED_
                 _1_       _2_       _3_       _4_       _5_       _6_
TRACK ANGLE    : 117 P   : 120 P   : 125 P   : 127 P   : 130 P   : 132 P
GYRO ANGLE     : 330     : 331-30  : 332     : 333     : 334     : 335
DEPTH SET      : 10 Ft.  : 10 Ft.  : 10 Ft.  : 10 Ft.  : 10 Ft.  : 10 Ft.
POWER          : ---     : ---     : ---     : ---     : ---     : ---
HIT OR MISS    : Hit     : Miss    : Miss    : Miss    : Miss    : Miss
ERRATIC        : No      : No      : No      : No      : No      : No
  (Yes or No)
MARK TORPEDO   : 18      : 18      : 18      : 18      : 18      : 18
SERIAL NO.     : 54089   : 53474   : 53911   : 53465   : 54125   : 53682
MARK EXPLODER  : 4-7     : 4-7     : 4-7     : 4-7     : 4-7     : 4-7
_ACTUATION SET_  : Contact : Contact : Contact : Contact : Contact : Contact
  ACTUATION
  ACTUAL       : Contact : ---     : ---     : ---     : ---     : ---
MARK WARHEAD   : 18      : 18      : 18      : 18      : 18      : 18
SERIAL NO.     : 496     : 935     : 1059    : 95      : 808     : 610
EXPLOSIVE      : TPX     : TPX     : TPX     : TPX     : TPX     : TPX
FIRING INTERVAL: 10"     : 10"     : 10"     : 10"     : 10"     : 10"
SEA CONDITIONS : 2       : 2       : 2       : 2       : 2       : 2

TYPE SPREAD    : Divergent, 900 feet coverage, from aft forward.
OVERHAUL       : S/M B   : S/M B   : S/M B   : S/M B   : S/M B   : S/M B
ACTIVITY       : MID AY  : MID AY  : MID AY  : MID AY  : MID AY  : MID AY

REMARKS:

-35-                                ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 108 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE
TIME 0742 (I) DATE 24 September 1944 LAT. 29-30 LONG. 129-15 E

DESCRIPTION:
TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Two FUSO Class (EC) battleships were in column 1,000 yards
distance, escorted by 4 destroyers, one on each bow of the leading battle-
ship and one on each beam of the second one. Destroyers were 3,000 yards
off the track. Targets were zig-zagging, using straight legs. One
destroyer was identified as of the ASASHIO class (EC). One PETE float sea-
plane was observed as air cover.

SHIP(S) SUNK: None.

SHIP(S) DAMAGED OR
PROBABLY SUNK: One FUSO Class Battleship.

DAMAGE DETERMINED BY: Heard five explosions, four of which had the
definite characteristics of torpedo explosions and exploded at the correct
time for torpedo runs. The fifth explosion was probably internal in the
target, being heard three seconds after the fourth hit.

TARGET DRAFT 28' COURSE 255 SPEED 16 RANGE 3570 (AT FIRING)

ON SHIP DATA

SPEED 4 COURSE 150 DEPTH 64' ANGLE 10° down (AT FIRING)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

TYPE ATTACK: Submerged periscope attack. Made almost entire attack on
normal approach course. Approached from down wind and sea. Wind force
three, sea state two. No echo ranging was heard at anytime. Fired from
position 150 yards ahead of screen and 75 yards off screen's track. Went
deep to avoid collision instead of firing stern tubes. Due to mist and
rain squalls, visibility varied from 10,000 yards to 40,000 yards. Targets
came out of rain squall at 15,000 yards.

-36- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 109 —
CONFIDENTIAL
TORPEDO ATTACK NUMBER TWO

TUBES FIRED | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
TRACK ANGLE | 64S | 67S | 70S | 76S | 79S | 87S
GYRO ANGLE | 352 | 355 | 358 | 000 | 007 | 010
DEPTH SET | 20 Ft. | 20 Ft. | 20 Ft. | 20 Ft. | 20 Ft. | 20 Ft.
POWER | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
HIT OR MISS | Hit | Hit | Miss | Hit | Hit | Miss
ERRATIC | | | | | |
(YES OR NO) | No | No | No | No | No | No
MARK TORPEDO | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18
SERIAL NO. | 54157 | 54220 | 53506 | 53819 | 54160 | 53810
MARK EXPLODER | 4-7 | 4-7 | 4-7 | 4-7 | 4-7 | 4-7
SERIAL NO. | 16424 | 1635160 | 16725 | 16190 | 16513 | 16291W
ACTUATION SET | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact
ACTUAL | Contact | Contact | None | Contact | Contact | None
MARK WARHEAD | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18
SERIAL NO. | 329 | 995W | 25 | 407 | 205 | 504W
EXPLOSIVE | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX
FIRING INTERVAL | 0 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10
TYPE SPREAD | 120 % of 600 feet, from aft forward.
SEA CONDITIONS | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2
OVERHAUL | S/M B | S/M B | S/M B | S/M B | S/M B | S/M B
ACTIVITY | MIDWAY | MIDWAY | MIDWAY | MIDWAY | MIDWAY | MIDWAY
REMARKS:

-37- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 110 —
CONFIDENTIAL
TORPEDO ATT REPORT FORM
U.S.S. PLAICE
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 PATROL NO. T.O.
TIME 0149 (I) DATE 26 September 1944 LAT. 29-26 N LONG. 128-50 E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

DESCRIPTION: Convoy consisted of a large three island freighter and a
large transport in column screened by three escorts, one ahead and one
ranging up and down each flank. By binocular formula, the transport was
565 feet long and the escort was 287 feet long. The transport had a
long superstructure, short stack, cruiser stern and bow slightly raked.
The escort had a raised forecastle and a single stack.

SHIP(S) SUNK: One large transport (LU).
One CHIDORI torpedo boat (EU).

SHIP(S) DAMAGED OR
PROBABLY SUNK: None.

DAMAGE DETERMINED BY: Transport disintegrated in a violent explosion,
apparently from a gasoline cargo. The light of the transport explosion
revealed the escort with her back broken and bow and stern sections
separated. Both targets disappeared from the radar screen within 3 min-
utes and 4,500 yards range. When the smoke cleared away at about 6,000
yards, neither ship was in sight, although another escort rescuing survi-
vors was easily seen.

TARGET DRAFT 25' - 6" COURSE 060 SPEED 13 RANGE 3,700 (AT FIRING)

ON SHIP DATA

SPEED 11 COURSE 325 DEPTH Surface ANGLE 0° (AT FIRING)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

TYPE ATTACK: Night surface attack with tracking phase in 80% of full moon,
attack phase after moonset. Attacked from broad on starboard bow of the
convoy. Zig plan was long, straight legs. Leading escort was ahead, with
flankers ranging up and down the sides. Fired as near flanker was dropping
back on target, just before the open water between them closed. Turned
and retired on the surface. There was no evidence of radar on any vessel
of the convoy.

-38- ENCLOSURE (..)

— page 111 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3

TUBES FIRED | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

TRACK ANGLE | : 84 S | : 85 S | : 87 S | : 88 S
GYRO ANGLE | : 358 | : 359 | : 001 | : 002-30
DEPTH SET | : 5 Ft. | : 5 Ft. | : 5 Ft. | : 5 Ft.
POWER | : --- | : --- | : --- | : ---
HIT OR MISS | : Hit | : Hit | : Hit | : Hit
ERRATIC | : Hooked | : No | : No | : No
(YES OR NO) |   right | | |
MARK TORPEDO | : 18 | : 18 | : 18 | : 18
SERIAL NO. | : 53780 | : 53500 | : 54166 | : 53851
MARK EXPLODER: | : 4-7 | : 4-7 | : 4-7 | : 4-7
SERIAL NO. | : 16745 | : 16126 | : 16616 | : 16570
ACTUATION SET: | Contact | : Contact | : Contact | : Contact
ACTUATION | : Contact | : Contact | : Contact | : Contact
ACTUAL | : Contact | : Contact | : Contact | : Contact
MARK WARHEAD | : 18 | : 18 | : 18 | : 18
SERIAL NO. | : 416 | : 569 | : 960 | : 16 W
EXPLOSIVE | : TPX | : TPX | : TPX | : TPX
FIRING | : 0 | : 10" | : 10" | : 10"
INTERVAL | | | |
TYPE SPREAD | : 120% of 600 feet, Aft to Forward
SEA CONDITION: | : 1 | : 1 | : 1 | : 1
OVERHAUL | : S/M B | : S/M B | : S/M B | : S/M B
ACTIVITY | : MIDWAY | : MIDWAY | : MIDWAY | : MIDWAY

REMARKS: Torpedo No. 53780 hooked about 20 yards right,
         straightened out and sank escort.

-39- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 112 —
SS390/A16-3
Serial ( 026 )
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
October 12, 1944.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - port of War Patrol Number Two.

I. MINES.

Two floating mines were discovered. They both
projected about one foot above water. The first was discovered
at night and passed close-to in Lat. 27-19 N, Long. 126-40 E on
3 September 1944. It appeared new, having a shiny coat of black
paint. It corresponded most closely to Type 45, Mine Identi-fi-
cation Manual, Revision of October, 1943. The second was sighted
in daylight in Lat. 29-12 N, Long. 137-40 E on 29 September 1944.
It had been adrift several months, being very rusty and heavily
encrusted with marine growth. Two 20 MM hits sank it without
exploding. It also appeared to be similar to Type 45.

J. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

The ship was hardly bothered by patrolling air-
craft. The few contacts made indicate that they only fly during
a 24 hour period preceding the passage of shipping.
One vessel believed to be a patrol craft was
sighted twice patrolling north and south at the western side of
the pass between YOKOATE SHIMA and TAKARA JIMA. The pass between
TAKARA JIMA and AKUSEKI JIMA was free of both patrols and radars.
Countermeasures after attacks consisted of one
stick of four depth bombs, after the first submerged attack, six
depth charges after the second submerged attack and about 12
depth charges after the night surface attack. Air cover was
provided during daylight only.
After experimenting, it was concluded that the
shore based radars were able to detect us at ranges up to 32,000
yards, as evidenced by APR contacts, becoming steady. No offensive
action followed these detections, but definite indications pointed
to a rerouting of shipping based on these radar detections. After
keeping outside of 35,000 yards to the nearest land when surfaced,
we began to get targets.

SPEED-RPM DATA FOLLOWS:
SHIP         | RPM | SPEED
KONGO MARU   | 204 | 15 Kts.
MINEKAZE DD  | 240 | 18 Kts.
FUSO BB      | 1   | 16 Kts.

-40- ENCLOSURE (..)

— page 120 —
FB5-45/A16-3

Serial: 0116

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FIVE

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

13 October 1944

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to COMSUBDIV FORTY-FIVE
Conf. Ltr. SS390/A16-3 Ser. 026
of 10/12/44 - Report of 2nd W.P.

From: The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FIVE.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-FOUR.
(3) The Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.
(4) The Commander-in-Chief, United States PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol No. TWO.

1. The SECOND war patrol of the U.S.S. PLAICE was conducted in the NANSEI
SHOTO area. The duration of the patrol was fifty-six days of which thirty days
were spent on station. Anti-submarine activity by aircraft was confined mostly to
the daylight hours. Several shore based radar stations were detected and their
estimated locations are tabulated in the patrol report. Numerous small fishing
and patrol craft were sighted in the area.

2. In the afternoon of September 7th a submerged periscope approach was
made on a large two stack, high speed, vessel escorted by a destroyer. A radical
zig by the target in the final stage of the approach enabled this ship to pass out
of torpedo range before a new solution could be generated.

3. Late in the morning of September 9th the same ship and escort were
sighted again. A study of this target on both occasions indicated she was a KONGO
MARU class liner converted to an auxiliary cruiser. Six Mk. 18 torpedoes were
fired from the bow tubes in a daylight periscope attack, range 2700 yards, 117-132
Port track, 330-335 gyro angles, depth setting 10 feet. One timed hit was heard.
A 30 degree zig away one minute after firing and a probable error in target speed
accounts for the low percentage of hits in this attack. Four depth bombs were
received and PLAICE went deep before results of the torpedo explosion could be
observed. The ship was heard to slow after the torpedo hit but later increased
speed and cleared the area.

4. At 0742 on September 24th six Mk. 18 torpedoes were fired from the bow
tubes in a daylight periscope attack on one of two FUSO class battleships steaming
in column and screened by four destroyers. Firing range was 3570 yards, 64 to 87
starboard track angle, gyros 352 to 010, depth setting 20 feet. PLAICE went deep
after firing to avoid a destroyer only 150 yards away. Four properly timed
characteristic torpedo explosions were heard. A fifth muffled explosion occurred
three seconds after one of the torpedo explosions. This was thought to be an in-
ternal explosion. Only six depth charges were received in retaliation for this
attack. Sound detected only one set of heavy screws after the attack but at 0817
a second set of heavy screws was heard starting up.

- 1 -

— page 121 —
FB5-45/A16-3
Serial: 0116
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol No. TWO.

SUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY-FIVE
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
13 October 1944.

5. At 0149 on September 27th a night surface attack was made on a convoy
consisting of a large transport, a large freighter, and three escorts. Four Mk.
18 torpedoes were fired from the bow tubes at the large transport, range 3700 yards,
84-88 starboard track angle, gyros 358-002, depth setting 5 feet. One torpedo
broke the back of an escort which was between PLAICE and the target. Three hits
were seen in the transport which disintegrated in a large gasoline explosion. The
remaining freighter and one escort speeded up to 15 knots. Pursuit was broken off
when it became apparent that an attack position could not be reached before dawn.

6. The PLAICE returned from patrol very clean and shipshape and in very
good material condition. It is expected the refit will be completed in the normal
period.

7. The Commanding Officer, officers, and crew of the PLAICE are congratu-
lated on the completion of this very fine aggressive patrol and the damage inflic-
ted upon the enemy.

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

— page 122 —
FC5-4/A16-3
Serial 0402
CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO PLAICE Conf.Ltr. SS390/
A16-3 Ser. 026 of 10/12/44
- Report of 2nd War Patrol.

From:
To :
Via :

Subject:

1.
Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of the
Commander Submarine Division FORTY-FIVE.

2.
It is a pleasure to congratulate the Commanding
Officer, officers, and crew on the results achieved during this
patrol. The damage caused by the hits in the FUSO class battle-
ship will undoubtedly put this ship out of action for an appreciable
period of time. SUBMARINE SQUADRON FOUR

Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.,
15 October 1944.

11/jak

The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR.
The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
(1) The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-FOUR.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(3) The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol No. TWO

[SIGNATURE: W. V. O'REGAN]
W. V. O'REGAN.

— page 123 —
FC5-24/A16-3
Ser. 012
CONFIDENTIAL
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
CO PLAICE Conf.Ltr. SS390/
A16-3 Ser. 026 of 10/12/44 -
Report of 2nd War Patrol.

SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY-FOUR

c/o Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.,
17 October 1944.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol
No. Two.

1. Forwarded, concurring in the remarks in the first
and second endorsements. The U.S.S. PLAICE is congratulated on this
excellently conducted and productive war patrol.

2. It is recommended that the U.S.S. PLAICE be credited
with inflicting the following damage to the enemy:

Sunk
Attack No. 3 - 1 AP(EU) - 10,000 tons
Attack No. 3 - 1 TB (Chidori)(EU) - 600 tons
Total Sunk 10,600 tons

Damaged
Attack No. 1 - 1 ACL (Ex-KONGO MARU Class)(EC) - 2,700 tons
Attack No. 2 - 1 BB (FUSO Class)(EC) - 29,300 tons
Total damaged - 32,000 tons

Total Sunk and Damaged - 42,600 tons

[SIGNATURE: W. C. CRAFORD]

— page 124 —
FF22-10/A16-3(15)
Serial 02280
CONFIDENTIAL

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
[HANDWRITTEN: 19 OCT 1944]

hch
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
18 October 1944.

FOURTH ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
Second War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 549.
U.S.S. PLAICE - 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. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of Second War Patrol.
(17 August to 12 October 1944).

1. The second war patrol of the PLAICE was conducted in
the Nansei Shoto area.

2. Excellent area coverage was maintained and numerous
contacts made, three of which were good torpedo targets. One contact
consisted of two FUSO Class battleships escorted by four destroyers.
Three aggressive torpedo attacks were delivered, resulting in damage
to one of the battleships and a KONGO MARU passenger liner which had
apparently been converted to an auxiliary cruiser, and the sinking of
a CHIDORI type destroyer and a large AP.

3. This patrol is designated as "Successful" for Combat
Insignia Award.

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratu-
lates the commanding officer, officers, and crew for this second
successive successful patrol of the PLAICE during which the following
damage was inflicted upon the enemy:

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

S U N K
1 - Large AP (EU) - 10,000 tons (Attack No. 3)
1 - TB (CHIDORI Class) (EU) - 600 tons (Attack No. 3)
TOTAL SUNK 10,600 tons

D A M A G E D
1 - BB (FUSO Class) (EC) - 29,300 tons (Attack No. 2)
1 - Converted Cruiser (KONGO MARU Type) - 7,100 tons (Attack No. 1)
(EC)
TOTAL DAMAGED 36,400 tons
TOTAL SUNK AND DAMAGED 47,000 tons

Distribution and authentication
on following page.

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

— page 125 —
hch

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
18 October 1944.

FF12-10/A16-3(15)

Serial 02280

CONFIDENTIAL

FOURTH ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
Second War Patrol.

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

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 549.
U.S.S. PLAICE - SECOND WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of Second War Patrol.
(17 August to 12 October 1944).

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
CominCh (7)
CNO (5)
CinCpac (6)
Intel.Cen.Pac.Ocean Areas (1)
ComServPac (1)
CinClant (1)
ComSubsLant (8)
S/M School, NL (2)
Subase, P.H. (1)
ComSoPac (2)
ComSoWesPac (1)
ComSubSowesPac (2)
CTF 72 (2)
ComNorPac (1)
ComSubspac (40)
SUBAD, MI (2)
ComSubsPacSubOrdCom (3)
All Squadron and Division
Commanders, Pacific (2)
SubTrainPac (2)
All Submarines, Pacific (1)

[SIGNATURE: E. J. Auer]
E. J. AUER,
Flag Secretary.

— page 126 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st copy]

SS390/A16-4

Serial ( 041 )
DECLASSIFIED

From:
To :
Via :

Subject:

Enclosure:

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
December 20, 1944.

The Commanding Officer.
The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
(1) The Commander Submarine Division ONE HUNDRED TWO.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron TEN.
(3) The Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
(4) The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Three.

(A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart (Nagasaki-Sasebo Area)(Comsubpac only).
(C) Track Chart (Kyushu-Shikoku Area)(Comsubpac only).

1.
Enclosure (A), covering the third war patrol of this
vessel conducted in the NAGASAKI-SASEBO, SHIKOKU-KYUSHU Areas during the
period 9 November 1944 to 20 December 1944, is forwarded herewith.

C.B. STEVENS, Jr.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-989C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/31/72]

[HANDWRITTEN: 101903]

— page 127 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Three.

A.
PROLOGUE.

On 12 October 1944 arrived U.S. Submarine Base,
Pearl Harbor, T.H. for refit. Renewed main storage battery electrolyte,
bringing the perchlorate content down to .012%. Available time did not
permit bringing the content down to the .006% prescribed for Gould Batteries.

Accomplished the following alterations:

Replaced circulating water sea valves with Pearl
Harbor heavy type. Main motor sea valves were tight, but main engine sea
valves still leaked despite three extra days availability and a second dry-
docking.
Installed Ward-Leonard type Hydrogen Burners.
Installed VHF.
Installed BuShips type DRT.
Installed pressure proof binoculars and new
type TBT.
Installed speed and range halving attachment on
TDC.
Installed true-relative bearing converters in
Conning Tower and Control Room.
Installed pulse analyzer for APR.
Replaced one RIL-5 receiver with RBH receiver.
Installed Lang-Sherman type Ice Cream Mixer.
Installed spindle type torpedo firing valves.
Completed four days training, during which three
exercise torpedoes were fired. Conducted underway sound test. Not
depermed or wiped.

B.
NARRATIVE.

November 9, 1944
1445 (V.I)
Underway from U.S. Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor,
T.H. in accordance with Comsubpac Operation Order
No. 373-44 enroute to MIDWAY ISLANDS, T.H.

1737 (V.I)
Submerged for trim dive and deep submergence test.
Main engine circulating water sea valves still leak.

1856 (V.I)
Surfaced.

November 10, 1944
1456 (W)
Attempted full power trial. Number two main engine
would not carry rated load.

-1-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 136 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Three.

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)

December 8, 1944

0325 (I) picked up what turned out to be the SEA DEVIL again
          on the SJ. Exchanged information about diving points.
          We will be about seven miles apart.

0610 (I) Submerged.

0852 (I) Sighted a patrol vessel. He soon disappeared in a
          rain squall. Ship contact #14.

0932 (I) Sighted BETTY type bomber. He passed overhead
          about 3,000 yards off our track. Aircraft contact
          #10. This activity looks encouraging. Maybe some-
          thing is coming by.

1820 (I) Surfaced.

1830 (I) Exchanged calls and recognition signals with USS
          SEA DEVIL on the SJ.

1845 (I) Exchanged recognition signals with a second submarine.
          Both these boats were west of us. Decided to head due
          east and cover the route between DANJO GUNTO and
          KOSHIKI RETTO. If anything at all is coming, it just
          about has to come through there unless it rounds
          DANJO GUNTO to the north, which the other boats seem
          to be in a better position than we to cover.

1914 (I) Sighted aircraft flare which burned out above the
          clouds. There was no aircraft indication on the APR.

2320 (I) Intercepted wolf pack message which put the task
          force twenty miles south-east of us heading east.

2330 (I) Turned south to intercept.

December 9, 1944

0000 (I) SJ radar contact 24,000 yards due west of us. Ship
          contact #15. Tracked target's group as on about
          060° T. Turned parallel to check it. They are
          moving fast. Looks like we are in a good position.
          Informed wolf pack commander we had contact and were
          due east of the targets.

-10- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 146 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

F. SHIP CONTACTS.

No. : Time : Lat. : Type(s) : Initial : Est. Course : How
    : Date : Long. :           : Range   : Speed       : Contacted
--- : : : : : :
8   : 2145 (I) : 31-45 N : Unknown   : 31,700  : 170°        : SJ
    : 12/3/44 : 129-30 E :           :         : 14 kts.     : Radar
--- : : : : : :
9   : 2227 (I) : 31-48 N : P.C.      : 6,000   : ---         : Sight
    : 12/3/44 : 129-43 E :           :         : ---         :
--- : : : : : :
10  : 2225 (I) : 31-49 N : Probable  : 3,500   : ---         : Sight
    : 12/4/44 : 129-07 E : P.C.      :         : ---         :
--- : : : : : :
11  : 0047 (I) : 31-58 N : Small Patrol : 2,500   : 040°        : Sight
    : 12/5/44 : 129-14 E :           :         : 7 kts.      :
--- : : : : : :
12  : 1235 (I) : 32-27 N : Patrol Craft : 16,000  : 280°        : Sight
    : 12/5/44 : 129-14 E :           :         : ---         : SJ
    :          :          :           :         :             : Radar
--- : : : : : :
13  : 2123 (I) : 32-16 N : Patrol Craft : 2,000   : ---         : Submerged
    : 12/5/44 : 128-32 E :           :         : ---         :
--- : : : : : :
14  : 0852 (I) : 31-43 N : Patrol Craft : 10,000  : ---         : Periscope
    : 12/8/44 : 128-13 E :           :         : ---         :
--- : : : : : :
15  : 0000 (I) : 31-35 N : Task Force : 24,000  : 090°        : SJ
    : 12/9/44 : 128-58 E :           :         : 18 kts.     : Radar
--- : : : : : :
16  : 1735 (I) :           : Sampan    : 12,000  : ---         : Sighted
    : 12/12/44 :           :           :         : ---         : Light
--- : : : : : :
17  : 2020 (I) : 32-35 N : Sampan or : 2,000   : ---         : Sight
    : 12/12/44 : 135-15 E : P.C.      :         : ---         :
--- : : : : : :

No. Remarks
--- :
8   : Attack frustrated by air cover.
--- :
9   : Probably wooden hulled P.C.
--- :
10  : Probably wooden hulled P.C.
--- :
11  : Probably small patrol craft or sampan.
--- :
12  : Small trawler or catcher type patrolling.
--- :
13  : Probably small patrol craft.
--- :
14  : Lost in mist before identifying.
--- :
15  : Radar showed two large ships and six small ones. A large CV and
    : 2 DD's were seen. Attacks #1&2.
--- :
16  : Sighted light only.
--- :
17  : Running darkened.
--- :

-20-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 147 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. ILAICE (SS390)

F. SHIP CONTACTS (Cont'd)

The user wants me to transcribe all text from the image.

**Top Section:**
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. ILAICE (SS390)

**Main Table:**
F. SHIP CONTACTS (Cont'd)
| NO. | : Lat. | : Types | : Initial : Est. Course | : How | : Time |
|     | : Long. |         | : Range   : Speed       | Contacted: Date |
|-----|||||||
| 18  | : 32-36 N | Probable| : 1,900   | : ---       | SJ Radar   | : 1908 (I) |
|     | : 135-15E |         |           | : ---       |            | : [HANDWRITTEN: 12/14/44] |
| 19  | : 32-30 N | Sampan  | : 2,500   | : ---       | SJ Radar   | : 1938 (I) |
|     | : 133-43E |         |           | : ---       |            | : [HANDWRITTEN: 12/14/44] |
|     | :       |         | :         | :           |            | :         |

— page 148 —
G.
Number | Time | AIRCRAFT CONTACTS | Type(s) | Initial | Est. Course | How Con-
| Date | Latitude | | Range | Speed | tacted
| | Longitude | | | | |
1 | 0528(K) | 33-09 N | 3 - Unknown | 2 Miles | - - - - | Sight
| 11/21/44 | 144-08 E | | | | |
2 | 1821(K) | 33-17 N | | | - - - - | SD
| 11/21/44 | 146-33 E | 1 - Unknown | 25 Miles | - - - - | Sight
3 | 0305(K) | 32-35 N | 1 - Unknown | 5 Miles | - - - - | Sight
| 11/23/44 | 140-15 E | | | | |
4 | 0322(I) | 30-29 N | 1 - Unknown | 5 Miles | - - - - | Sight
| 11/26/44 | 138-20 E | | | | |
5 | 1216(I) | 30-15 N | 1 - BETTY | 10 Miles | 190° T | Periscope
| 11/27/44 | 138-35 E | | | | Submerged
6 | 2050(I) | - - - - | 1 - Unknown | - - - - | - - - - | APR
| 11/27/44 | | | | | |
7 | 0617(I) | 29-52 N | 1 - Unknown | 6 Miles | 050° T | Sight
| 12/1/44 | 138-43 E | | | | |

REMARKS

Number

1 Sighted formation of three (3) planes by exhaust flames.
2 Closed to twenty-two (22) miles, then opened.
3 Sighted burning running lights.
4 Sighted burning running lights.
5 Flying at 1500 feet, straight course.
6 On A/S search, initiated by shore radar station.
7 Sighted burning running lights.

-22-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 149 —
G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (CONT'D)
Number | Time | Latitude | Type(s) | Initial | Est. Course | How Con-
       | Date | Longitude |         | Range   | Speed       | tacted
-------|------|||||
8      | 2320(I) | - - -    | 1 - Unknown | - - -   | - - -       | APR
       | 12/3/44 |           |         |         |             |
9      | 1553(I) | 32-21 N   | MAVIS   | 6 Miles | 350° T      | Periscope
       | 12/5/44 | 129-14 E  |         |         |             | Submerged
10     | 0932(I) | 31-42 N   | BETTY   | 2 Miles | - - -       | Periscope
       | 12/8/44 | 128-14 E  |         |         |             | Submerged
11     | 1815(I) | 31-00 N   | 1 - Unknown | - - -   | - - -       | APR
       | 12/10/44 | 132-16 E  |         |         |             |

REMARKS

Number
8      Air cover for a southbound ship.

9      Apparently on routine patrol flight.

10     On A/S Patrol.

11     Apparently on routine patrol flight.

-23-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 150 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 3
Time 0128 (I) Date 12/9/44 Lat. 31-57 N. Long. 129-01 E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Task Force of 2 large ships and 6 small ones by radar. Sighted
one large aircraft carrier (SHOKAKU Class (EU)) and 2 destroyers (TERUTSUKI
Class (EC)) and 1 (EU)). The two large ships were in line abreast with an
estimated 3 destroyers in column 3,000 yards on each flank. The last quarter
moon was obscured by clouds and intermittent rain squalls. Target not seen
until just before firing.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) damaged
or probably sunk: One fleet type destroyer, TERUTSUKI Class (EC).

Damage determined by: Heard two correctly timed hits. Heard loud and
definite breaking up noises for four minutes.

Target Draft 9' Course 020 Speed 18 Range 3,700 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 10 Course 280 Depth Surface Angle 0° (at firing).

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: Night surface attack against task force. Density of the screen
effectively prevented penetration. Visibility ruled out a submerged attack.
Fired 3 bow tubes on radar ranges and bearings for two correctly timed hits.
The next destroyer astern turned toward, spoiling the set-up for the remain-
der of the bow nest. See Attack No. 2 for continuation with the stern tubes.

-24-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 151 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1                               PATROL NO. 3

| Tubes Fired         | 1       | 2       | 3       |
|||||
| Track Angle         | : 75 S  | : 76 S  | : 77 S  |
| Gyro Angle          | : 353   | : 355   | : 357   |
| Depth Set           | : 5 Ft. | : 5 Ft. | : 5 Ft. |
| Power               | : ---   | : ---   | : ---   |
| Hit or Miss         | : Hit   | : Hit   | : Miss  |
| Erratic             |         |         |         |
| (Yes or no)         | : No    | : No    | : No    |
| Mark Torpedo        | : 18-1  | : 18-1  | : 18-1  |
| Serial No.          | : 56602 | : 56571 | : 56389 |
| Mark Exploder       | : 4-7   | : 4-7   | : 4-7   |
| Serial No.          | : 17313 | : 16988 | : 17128 |
| Actuation Set       | : Contact | : Contact | : Contact |
| Actuation Actual    | : Contact | : Contact | : None  |
| Mark Warhead        | : 18-0  | : 18-0  | : 18-0  |
| Serial No.          | : 717   | : 1167  | : 1003  |
| Explosive           | : Torpex | : Torpex | : Torpex |
| Firing Interval     | : 0     | : 10    | : 10    |
| Type Spread         | : 3/4° divergent from aft forward |
| Sea Conditions      | : across | : across | : across |
| Overhaul Activity   | : PHTH  | : PHTH  | : PHTH  |

Remarks: Torpedo speed corrected for:
             Temperature.
             Length of run.
             Depth.
             All tubes fired with 150 lb.s impulse.

                                 -25-                               ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 152 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
U.S.S. PLAICE
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2
WAR PATROL NO. 3
Time 0131 (I) Date 12/9/44 Lat. 31-57 N Long. 129-01 E

Description: See Torpedo Attack Number One, Patrol Number Three.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) damaged or One fleet type destroyer (UN). Gave the same strength
probably sunk: radar echo as two UTSUKI class destroyers directly ahead of him.

Damage determined by: Heard two correctly timed hits. Heard breaking up
noises after the breaking up noises from attack number one had ceased, and
on a different bearing.

Target Draft 9' Course 010 Speed 18 Range 2,000 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 12 to 6 Course 280 Depth 38 to 130 Angle 0 to 50 down(at firing)

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: This attack was actually a continuation of Torpedo Attack
Number One. When the second destroyer turned toward us, shifted the set-up
from that one with bow tubes to the third one in line with stern tubes.
Commenced firing about 30 seconds after the diving alarm sounded while avoid-
ing what looked like an attempt to ram. The first shot went out on a radar
range and bearing. The next three were fired on generated bearings.

-26- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 154 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Three.

I. MINES

No evidence of mines or mining activity was observed.

J. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

In the BUNGO SUIDO-KII SUIDO area the following anti-
submarine measures were noted. On one occasion we surfaced close enough
inshore to be picked up by shore radar, who then vectored an aircraft to
us. A few small craft were patrolling off the headlands. A small sub-
marine was believed sighted in BUNGO SUIDO.
In the SASEBO-NAGASAKI area, no submarines were sighted,
but the air patrol seemed a little more dense and patrol craft chose the
passes between islands. In this area, night air cover frustrated one
attack by forcing us to dive three times.
The task force attacked at night had a dense modern
destroyer screen, but the APR showed no radar activity between 74 and 1000
mcs. No echo ranging was heard at any time.

K. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

Renewal of main engine circulating water sea valves was
not a success. They still leak, although the valves individually tested
tight. It is believed that the heavy piping to which they are connected
warps them. Carefully rebending the piping during the next refit seems
at least worth trying.
Number two main engine sheared the coupling plate between
the upper and lower crankshafts. This was discovered by process of elimin-
ation enroute to MIDWAY after several unsuccessful attempts to run it at
high load. Running the engine at full speed during refit immediately after
overhaul is believed to have caused the casualty.
One main motor brush was renewed enroute to MIDWAY. No
further brush trouble has developed. Brushes are the old type.
The auxiliary generator was found flooded with crankcase
oil from the auxiliary engine after our prolonged session with a ten degree
up angle. After as much disassembly and cleaning as possible at sea, per-
formance has been satisfactory. A complete reinsulation is required for
the next refit, however.

ORDNANCE
A full load of Mark 18-1 torpedoes was carried. Per-
formance in both upkeep and firing was perfect. The torpedo shop, U.S.
Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, deserves high praise for the splendid con-
dition in which the torpedoes were turned over to us.

-28- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 159 —
FB5-102/A16-3
Serial 059

CONFIDENTIAL

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO PLAICE Conf. ltr.
SS390/A16-4 serial 041
dated 20 December 1944.

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, Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Three,
         Comment on.

         1. The third war patrol of the U.S.S. PLAICE was conducted
in waters adjacent to the southwestern part of the Japanese Empire.
The patrol covered a period of forty-one days of which twenty-four
were spent in the area. It was terminated by reason of the serious
illness of a member of the crew.

         2. The first week on station was spent patrolling the
traffic lanes east of Van Diemen Strait. The only surface contacts
made in that area were with a hospital ship and an enemy submarine
which dove shortly after being sighted.

         3. The PLAICE was then shifted to a life guard station
off Nagasaki where she spent the next nine days. On December 3, an
approach was begun on an unidentified radar contact at 31,700 yards
but was frustrated by the repeated appearances of radar equipped
planes. Considerable air and surface patrol activity was encountered
in this area.

         4. At 0000 I, December 9, the PLAICE made contact by radar
with a high speed surface task force consisting of a carrier and
several destroyer escorts. The PLAICE together with other submarines
in the same vicinity, closed the target group and obtained a favor-
able attack position on the starboard screen consisting of three
destroyers, after a chase of one hour and a half. Three torpedoes
were fired at the leading target, a Terutsuki class destroyer and
the set-up was then shifted to the second screen. That vessel, however,
turned at close range as if to ram, and the PLAICE was forced to turn
away and dive. A quick set-up by radar was obtained on the third
and four stern tube shots were fired on radar and
generated bearings while the PLAICE was in the act of diving. Each

- 1 -
SUBMARINE DIVISION 102
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
25 December 1944.

— page 161 —
FC5-10/A16-3
Serial: 0287

CONFIDENTIAL
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO PLAICE Conf. Ltr.
SS390/A16-4 Serial 041
dated 20 December 1944.

From:
To :
Via :

Subject:

1.
in the first endorsement.

2.
pharmacist's mate of the PLAICE did everything that could be
done for the pneumonia patient, and undoubtedly saved his
life.

3.
the PLAICE are congratulated on their patrol and are wel-
comed to Camp Dealey.

Copy to:
CSD-102. SUBMARINE SQUADRON TEN
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
27 December 1944.

The Commander Submarine Squadron Ten.
(1) The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(3) The Commander-in-Chief, Pacific Fleet.

U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number
Three, Comments on.

Forwarded, concurring in the remarks contained

According to medical officers present, the

The commanding officer, officers and crew of

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

— page 162 —
[STAMP: hch]
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET

FF12-10/A16-3(15)                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial 013                                      San Francisco, California,
                                                2 January 1945.
CONFIDENTIAL
[HANDWRITTEN: 4 JAN 1945]
THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
Third War Patrol.

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

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 628.
U.S.S. PLAICE - 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. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of Third War Patrol
                (9 November to 20 December 1944).

1. The third war patrol of the PLAICE was conducted in the
Southwestern Empire areas. In addition to offensive patrol, the PLAICE
also performed lifeguard services.

2. Other than numerous small craft, only one contact was
made. This contact was a combatant task force consisting of two large
ships, one of which was a CV and six smaller ships including destroyers.
Two aggressive attacks were made on two of the destroyers. Unfortun-
ately, the extent of damage inflicted could not be observed by the
PLAICE, she being forced to go deep to avoid ramming by one of the
destroyers. Two timed hits were heard in each attack.

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

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratu-
lates the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew of the PLAICE for
another aggressive successful patrol. While it is probable that two
destroyers were destroyed in these attacks, lack of positive evi-
dence permits assessment of only damaged. The PLAICE is credited with hav-
ing inflicted the following damage upon the enemy during this patrol:

D A M A G E D

1 - DD (TERUTSUKI Class) (EC)           - 2,300 tons (Attack No. 1)
1 - DD (Type Unknown) (EC)              - 2,300 tons (Attack No. 2)

TOTAL DAMAGED                           4,600 tons

Distribution and authenti-
cation on following page.               C. A. LOCKWOOD, Jr.

- 1 -

— page 164 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]

SS390/A16-3
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
Serial ( OS )

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
March 23, 1945.

From: The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390).
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division TWO FORTY TWO.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY FOUR.
(3) The Commander Submarine Force, U.S. PACIFIC Fleet.
(4) The Commander in Chief, U.S. PACIFIC Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol number four.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Charts. (To ComSubsPac Only).

1. Enclosure (A), covering the fourth war patrol of this vessel
conducted in LUZON STRAITS and FORMOSA areas during the period 23 January
1945 to 23 March 1945, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: C.B. Stevens, Jr.]
C.B. STEVENS, Jr.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/31/73]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 117225]

— page 165 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.

A. PROLOGUE.

Moored to U.S.S. SPERRY at U.S. Naval Operating Base,
Guam Island at 1715 (K) 20 December 1944. Reported to CSS 10 and CSD 102
for duty. Transferred LARSON, Philip A., RT1c, USNR, pneumonia patient, to
U.S.S. SPERRY. Conducted normal refit. The after bulkhead of bow buoyancy
tank was found cracked throughout the entire height of the tank. The vent
operating linkage was badly misaligned by superstructure warpage. Both the
tank bulkhead and superstructure framing were strengthened.
No alterations were completed. Was not drydocked. Not
depermed or wiped. Were not sound tested. Completed refit 4 January 1945.
During recuperation period, had chest X-rays of entire crew taken, because
pneumonia patient was suspected of having tuberculosis. All hands tested
negative.
Completed 4 day readiness for sea period, 4 days train-
ing and 2 days loading period without incident. Departed in company with
U.S.S. SCABBARD FISH (SS397) for SAIPAN on 16 January 1945. Arrived same
date and reported to CSS 8 and CSD 81 for duty in connection with coordinated
attack training. Moored to U.S.S. FULTON. Conducted coordinated attack
training on 18, 19 and 20 January. Departed SAIPAN for coordinated patrol
with USS SCABBARD FISH in Area CHOPHOUSE. The Group Commander was the
Commanding Officer, USS PLAICE (SS390). The third submarine of the pack was
to have been the USS SWORDFISH (SS193), but she did not arrive in time to
depart in company.

B. NARRATIVE.

January 23, 1945
1410 (K) Underway from USS FULTON in company with USS SCABBARD-
FISH, escorted by USS LCI 1054.

2055 (K) Released escort. Entered joint zone.

January 24, 1945
Uneventful.

January 25, 1945.
0215 (K) Exchanged recognition signals and calls with USS GUARD-
FISH on SJ. Ship contact No. 1.

1600 (K) Shifted clocks and time zone to minus 9.

-1-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 170 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.
B.

NARRATIVE (Cont'd).

6. The frequency of submerged periscope sightings'
indicates that the frequent night contacts are due
to the density of aircraft in the area and not to
our being detected by them. This density is probably
the result of traffic between FORMOSA and LUZON.
7. Ability of the SJ to detect planes, and sighting
planes, both indicate they are flying low.
8. Previous experience shows that careful observation
of the APR reveals when the submarine is detected by
radar.
Based on the above observations, it appears wisest to:
1. Place primary reliance on the SJ for aircraft
detection.
2. Dive when the range closes rapidly without a large
true bearing change.
3. Remain on the surface when the bearing change is
fast and the range change is slow.
4. Dive when the APR gives definite evidence that
the submarine has been detected.

January 31, 1945 (Cont'd).

1416 (H) to
1445 (H) Heard 5 series of loud rumbling noises. Duration
seemed too prolonged to resemble depth charges, al-
though each set was preceded by a series of clicks.
The last set had depth charge characteristics. Two
sets shook the boat. Nothing could be seen.

1845 (H) Surfaced.

1900 (H) Aircraft contact No. 23. Heard for 5 minutes on the
APR.

2041 (H) Aircraft contact No. 24. Heard for 9 minutes on APR
before it faded out.

2115 (H) Aircraft contact No. 25. Picked up on SJ at 23,550
yards. Held SJ contact for 15 minutes.

February 1, 1945.

0236 (H) Aircraft contact No. 26. Saturated on APR with low
gain and steady on, lobe switching.

0237 (H) Submerged.

-6- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 174 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd).
February 3, 1945 (Cont'd).

1235 (H) Aircraft contact No. 47. Picked up by SD at 5 miles.
 Submerged. Range 2 miles as antenna went under.

1719 (H) Surfaced.

2017 (H) Aircraft contact No. 48. Picked up on AIR and 2 minutes
 later on SJ. AIR indicated he probably had us. SJ
 showed the range opening, then lost him. Four minutes
 later SJ regained contact with him coming in fast.

2034 (H) Submerged with range 9,000 yards. Range 5,000 yards as
 the antenna went under. This follow may have foxed us
 by retiring to his maximum range of contact, moving on
 that arc until he got abeam of us, then decided to
 decided to stay down and let him search until he got
 tired.

2206 (H) Surfaced.

2230 (H) Sent our Serial Three to ComSubSpac, reporting results
 of search for aviator.

February 4, 1945.

0555 (H) Submerged.

1839 (H) Surfaced.

2058 (H). SJ interference, probably from SCABBARDFISH or BATFISH
 enroute to station. No reply to our challenges.

2141 (H) Aircraft contact No. 49. SJ picked up at 16 miles and
 held to 17 miles. Nothing on AIR.

February 5, 1945.

0433 (H): Interference on SJ. No reply to our challenges.

0604 (H) Submerged.

1835 (H) Surfaced.

1849 (H) Interference on SJ. No reply to our challenges.

-10- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 175 —
CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
         U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.

— page 180 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd).
February 12, 1945 (Cont'd).
    0508 (H) Submerged. Range 5,000 yards as antenna submerged.
    1831 (H) Surfaced.
    2118 (H) Sent our Serial Six reporting weather.
    2230 (H) SJ interference. Exchanged recognition signals and calls
             with S.M. FOACHER.

February 13, 1945.
    0552 (H) Submerged.
    1554 (H) Aircraft contact No. 74. Sighted two PETES through the
             periscope.
    1833 (H) Surfaced.
    2125 (H) Sighted SANCHO KAKU light, on NE tip of FORMOSA, burning
             with altered characteristics.

February 14, 1945.
    0550 (H) Submerged.
    1826 (H) Surfaced.

February 15, 1945.
    0554 (H) Submerged.
    0914 (H) Aircraft contact No. 75. Sighted L-VIS at 2 miles
             through the periscope.
    1833 (H) Surfaced.

February 16, 1945.
    0105 (H) Aircraft contact No. 76. Heard strong on APR.
    0109 (H) SJ picked up aircraft at 6 miles, closing on a steady
             bearing. Submerged. Range 4½ miles as antenna went
             under.

                                     -16-
                                                         ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 181 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.
B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd)
February 16, 1945 (Cont'd).
0229 (H) Surfaced.
0552 (H) Submerged.
1302 (H) Aircraft contact No. 77. Sighted PLANES at 1 mile by
periscope.
1827 (H) Surfaced.
February 17, 1945.
0110 (H) Aircraft contact No. 78. Heard on APR. Came in on SJ
13 minutes later, closing.
0125 (H) Submerged.
0206 (H) Surfaced.
0552 (H) Submerged.
1826 (H) Surfaced.
2220 (H) Received ComSubsPac 171151, directing a lifeguard sub-
marine stationed east of FORMOSA.
February 18, 1945.
0020 (H) Sent orders to SCABBARDTISH to take lifeguard duties
until relieved by PLAICE at 0000 (H) 20 February.
0135 (H) Aircraft contact No. 79. Held on APR 20 minutes. No SJ
contact.
0427 (H) Interference on SJ. Probably another SJ radar.
0553 (H) Submerged.
1828 (H) Surfaced.
1855 (H) Interference on SJ. Probably another SJ radar.
2123 (H) Sent our Serial Seven to ComSubsPac reporting weather.

-17-
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 184 —
CONFIDENTIAL:
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
             U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.

— page 185 —
CONFIDENTIAL:
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd).

February 26, 1945 (Cont'd).
0543 (H) Submerged.
1831 (H) Surfaced.
2148 (H) Exchanged recognition signals and calls with SEA. POACHER on SJ.

February 27, 1945.
0008 (H) SEA. POACHER reported radar contact on patrol craft.
0400 (H) SEA. POACHER reported radar contact on 4 ships.
0525 (H) SEA. POACHER reported losing contact.
0553 (H) Submerged.
0632 (H) Surfaced.
0920 (H) Aircraft contact No. 89. Sighted 2 ZEKES at 4 miles. Submerged.
No SD or SJ contact.
1023 (H) Sighted large pillar of white smoke which looked as though it
were from an aircraft shot down.
1033 (H) Surfaced, running down true bearing of smoke.
1036 (H) Aircraft contact No. 90. Sighted L.VIS at 6 miles. Submerged.
No SD or SJ contact.
1115 (H) Surfaced. Resumed search down bearing of smoke. Ran 14 miles
down that bearing, then reversed course without any trace of the
origin of the smoke being apparent.
1443 (H) Ship contact No. 6. Sighted periscope. Turned toward, then
submerged. Periscope was picked up by the lookout and confirmed
by the officer-of-the-deck, navigator and commanding officer.
Heard on sound gear for 2 minutes after submerging. Apparently
he went deep and ran silent when we dove. Saw him make a total
of 3 periscope exposures.
1843 (H) Surfaced and commenced searching for the submarine. Perhaps.
2104 (H) Sighted red flare, probably dropped from aircraft. Submerged.

-21-
ENCLOSURE (A.)

— page 192 —
CONFIDENTIAL
                                                                U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

Subject:             U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.

— page 196 —
CONFIDENTIAL:
Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number Four.

C. WEATHER.
During the month of February and the first week in March, the
weather in the FORMOSA Area was overcast approximately ninety percent of the time,
with light precipitation at irregular intervals during the day and night. The wind
was predominantly from the North to North-East, varying from force three to five in
strength. Clouds were low with moderate visibility. No fog was encountered. The
air temperature for the most part averaged about sixty-five degrees. Three distinct
periods of local weather disturbance were experienced; these were of three to ten
days in duration, having all the characteristics of mild fronts; they were immediate-
ly preceded by about twelve hours of calm sea with little wind, followed by a sudden
drop in air temperature with a steady or even slightly rising barometer. The wind
increased rapidly, hauling around gradually through 360 degrees, but never exceed-
ing much over force six at any time.

D. TIDAL INFORMATION.
In the LUZON STRAIT vicinity the currents were strong (average
1.5 to 2.0 knots), setting generally in a North-Westerly direction. However, in
BALINTANG CHANNEL, current was wholly unpredictable. Off the North-East tip of
FORMOSA, currents set toward 350° T. - 030° T. with a 1.7 knots average drift;
directly to the north of ISHIGAKI JIMA, during a short period of strong North-
Easterly wind, the current was observed to set 1.5 knots toward 275° T. In the
passage between TARAM JIMA and SHIMAJI JIMA in the MIYAKO RETTO the current seemed
to set South-Westerly, contrary to what might be expected in that spot. The effects
of the KURO SHIO, when operating close to the SAKISHIMA GUNTO, appeared slight.

E. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS.
Plotting. In the LUZON STRAIT vicinity the period on station was almost entirely by Radar
for position plotting, while YONAKUNI JIMA and BALINTANG ISLANDS proved excellent
to the East of
FORMOSA. The general contour and prominent peaks of the North-East capes of FORMOSA,
were easily distinguishable, and the small island, KUSOAN TO, helped to confirm
radar cuts taken on these peaks when close to the main island. South-West of
IRIOMOTE JIMA, the 334 foot island of NAKANOKAMI JIMA provided reliable radar echoes
when making a northward passage to the West of IRIOMOTE JIMA. To the North of the
MIYAKO RETTO care should be exercised when piloting by radar. The islands of this
group being low, it is felt that insufficient warning, either by radar or fathometer
soundings, would be provided in this vicinity to insure keeping well clear of the
foul ground to the northward.

One navigational light was sighted several times, this being the
light on SAMUCHO KAKU, the Eastern Cape of FORMOSA. The characteristics seemed to
be that of a flashing white light (flashing about every twenty-five seconds, one
long and short flash, followed by two separate short flashes); this does not agree
with the characteristics described on page 142 of the Islands of the Pacific Light
List, Vol. II Edition, 1944. This light was picked up first at 2130 (H) on February

- 32 -
ENCLOSURE (..)

— page 198 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

F. SHIP CONTACTS.

No. : Time      : Lat.      : Type(s)             : Initial : Est. Course : Speed : How Contacted
    : Date      : Long.     :                     : Range   :             :       :

1   : 0215 (K)  : 15-25 N   : USS GUARDFISH       : 13,000  : 090°        : 14    : SJ
    : 1/25/45   : 138-30 E  :                     :         :             :       :
2   : 0225 (H)  : 20-18 N   : USS SAWFISH         : 10,500  : 145°        : 14    : SJ
    : 1/29/45   : 121-08 E  :                     :         :             :       :
3   : 0429 (H)  : 20-55.5 N : USS BLACKFISH       : 13,000  : 310°        : 10    : SJ
    : 2/10/45   : 120-17 E  :                     :         :             :       :
4   : 0306 (H)  : 24-37 N   : 6 sampans           : 7,400   : 280°        : 4     : SJ
    : 2/20/45   : 122-24 E  :                     :         :             :       :
5   : 2014 (H)  : 24-31 N   : Unknown             : Unknown : Unknown     :       : PR
    : 2/25/45   : 122-04 E  :                     :         :             :       :
6   : 1443 (H)  : 24-39 N   : Submarine           : 1,000   : Unknown     :       : Sight
    : 2/27/45   : 122-13 E  : 1 CHIDORI (EC)      :         :             :       :
    :           :           : 1 DL (EU)           :         :             :       :
    :           :           : 1 AMKUSA MARU (EU)  :         :             :       :
7   : 1326 (H)  : 24-30 N   : 1 TYPE 45 AK(EC)    : 20,000  : 350°        : 10    : Sight
    : 3/1/45    : 124-02 E  :                     :         :             :       :

No. : Remarks.

1   : Exchanged recognition signals and calls on SJ.
2   : Exchanged recognition signals and calls on SJ.
3   : Exchanged recognition signals and calls on SJ.
4   : Tracked until dawn.
5   : Radar had Japanese submarine characteristics.
6   : Sighted periscope making three periscope exposures.
7   : Attack #1, #2 and #3.

- 34 -

ENCLOSURE (L)

— page 199 —
CONFIDENTI.L

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

F. SHIP CONTACTS.

| NO. | TIME | DATE | LAT. LONG. | TYPE(S) | INITIAL RANGE | EST. COURSE SPEED | HOW CONTACTED |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | : | : | : | : | : | : | : |
| | : 0203 (J) | : 3/11/45 | : 18-58 N | : U.S. | : | : | : |
| 8 | : | : | : 136-03 E | : SUBMARINE | : 12,500yds: | : Unk | : SJ Radar |
| | : 0725 (J) | : 3/12/45 | : 15-35 N | : U.S. | : | : | : |
| 9 | : | : | : 141-15 E | : SUBMARINE | : 11,000yds: | : Unk | : SJ Radar |
| | : 2055 (K) | : 3/12/45 | : 14-15 N | : Friendly | : | : | : |
| 10 | : | : | : 143-41 E | : Sur. Ship | : Unk | : Unk | : IFF |
| | : 0008 (K) | : 3/18/45 | : 18-06 N | : 2 U.S. | : | : 250 T. | : |
| 11 | : | : | : 152-08 E | : SUBMARINES | : 12,000yds: | : 15 kts. | : SJ Radar |
| | : 0109 (K) | : 3/18/45 | : 18-10 N | : U.S. | : | : 242 T. | : |
| 12 | : | : | : 152-21 E | : SUBMARINE | : 9,000yds: | : 13 kts. | : SJ radar |
| | : 1135 (K) | : 3/18/45 | : | : U.S. | : | : | : |
| 13 | : | : | : | : SUBMARINE | : Unk | : Unk | : SJ Radar. |

| NO. | : Remarks |
|---|---|
| | : |
| 8 | : Exchanged recognition signals and calls by SJ Radar. |
| | : |
| 9 | : Did not reply to our challenge but definitely friendly. |
| | : |
| 10 | : SC interference on SJ and IFF interference. |
| | : |
| 11 | : Exchanged recognition signals with one of pair. |
| | : |
| 12 | : Exchanged recognition signals. |
| | : |
| 13 | : Exchanged recognition signals and calls by SJ interference with RAZORBACK |

-35-
ENCLOSURE (..)

— page 200 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS.

: Time : Lat. : : Initial : Est. Course : How Con-
No.: Date : Long. : Type(s) : Range : Speed : tacted
: 1922(I) : 15-34 N :
1 : 1/27/45 : 123-48 E : Unk : 10 miles: Unk : SD
: 2008(I) : 15-34 N :
2 : 1/27/45 : 123-43 E : Unk : 8 miles: Unk : SD &
: SJ
: 0432(H) : 16-45 N :
3 : 1/28/45 : 123-04 E : Unk : 20 miles: Unk : SD
: 1435(H) : 18-28 N :
4 : 1/28/45 : 122-51 E : Frances : 10 miles: 120° T : Sight
: 2055(H) : 19-42 N :
5 : 1/28/45 : 122-09 E : Unk : 6 miles: Unk : SD
: 2158(H) : 19-35 N :
6 : 1/28/45 : 122-04 E : Unk : 10 miles: Unk : SD
: 2225(H) : 19-32 N :
7 : 1/28/45 : 122-02 E : Unk : 5 miles: Unk : SJ
: 2309(H) : 19-28 N :
8 : 1/28/45 : 121-58 E : Unk : - - - : - - - : APR
: 0455(H) : 20-43 N :
9 : 1/29/45 : 120-56 E : Unk : 7 miles: Unk : SJ

Remarks
:
1 : Closed to 6 miles. No IFF response. Submerged.
:
2 : Did not close. No IFF response. Remained on surface.
:
3 : Did not close. No IFF response. Remained on surface.
:
4 : No SD contact. Submerged.
:
5 : Submerged. Nothing on APR.
:
6 : Closed fast to 6 miles. Submerged. Nothing on APR.
:
7 : Closed fast to 3 miles. Went from 40 to 100 feet.
:
8 : Saturation pip on 300 mcs., low gain on APR.
:
9 : Closed to 13,000 yards. Submerged.

-36- ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 201 —
CONFIDENTIAL
G.
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd).

: Time
No. : Date
: Lat.
: Long.
: Type(s) : Range : Initial: Est. Course: How Con-
: Speed : tacted.
10 : 1946 (H) : 21-16 N : Unk : 7 miles: Unk : SJ
: 1/29/45 : 120-30 E :
11 : 2025 (H) : 21-15 N : Unk : 5 miles: Unk : SJ
: 1/29/45 : 120-28 E :
12 : 2157 (H) : 21-21 N : Unk : 8 miles: Unk : SJ
: 1/29/45 : 120-24 E :
13 : 2301 (H) : 21-26 N : Unk : 11 miles: Unk : SJ
: 1/29/45 : 120-20 E :
14 : 2344 (H) : 21-38 N : Unk : 5 miles: Unk : SJ
: 1/29/45 : 120-18 E :
15 : 0353 (H) : 21-34 N : Single : 4 miles: 160° T : Sight
: 1/30/45 : 120-34 E : Engine :
16 : 1244 (H) : 21-30 N : BETTY : 5 miles: 010° T : Sight
: 1/30/45 : 120-58 E :
17 : 1622 (H) : 21-30 N : ZEKE : 2 miles: 150° T : Sight
: 1/30/45 : 120-49 E : : 90 Kts. :
18 : 2350 (H) : 21-31 N : MAVIS : 1/4mile: 135° T : Sound
: 1/30/45 : 120-33 E :

Remarks.

10 : Closed to 11,500 yards. Submerged.

11 : Picked up at Radar Depth. Lost contact at 13,000 yards.

12 : Did not close. Remained on surface.

13 : Closed to 15,000 yards. Submerged.

14 : Submerged, range closing.

15 : Sighted heading towards in moonlight. Submerged.

16 : Sighted by periscope submerged.

17 : Sighted by periscope submerged.

18 : Heard motors, then saw plane crossing overhead.

- 37 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 202 —
G.

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd)

| No. | : Time | : Lat. | : | Initial | : Est. Course | : How Con- |
| | : Date | : Long. | : Type(s) | : Range | : Speed | : tacted |
| | : 0300 (H) | : 21-32 N | : | : | : |
| 19 | : 1/31/45 | : 120-15 E | : Unk | : Unk | : Unk | : APR |
| | : 0443 (H) | : 21-33 N | : | : | : |
| 20 | : 1/31/45 | : 120-14 E | : OSCAR | : 1/4 mile | : 180° T. | : Sound |
| | : 1101 (H) | : 21-31 N | : | : | : |
| 21 | : 1/31/45 | : 120-11 E | : BETTY | : 10 miles | : 110° T. | : Sight |
| | : 1221 (H) | : 21-31 N | : | : | : |
| 22 | : 1/31/45 | : 120-13 E | : ZEKE | : 5 miles | : 010° T. | : Sight |
| | : 1900 (H) | : 21-32 N | : | : | : |
| 23 | : 1/31/45 | : 120-13 E | : Unk | : Unk | : Unk | : APR |
| | : 2041 (H) | : 21-35 N | : | : | : |
| 24 | : 1/31/45 | : 120-02 E | : Unk | : Unk | : Unk | : APR |
| | : 2115 (H) | : 21-37 N | : | : | : | : SJ & |
| 25 | : 1/31/45 | : 119-58 E | : Unk | : 12 miles | : Unk | : APR |
| | : 0236 (H) | : 21-42 N | : | : | : |
| 26 | : 2/1/45 | : 120-06 E | : Unk | : Unk | : Unk | : APR |
| | : 0335 (H) | : 21-42 N | : | : | : |
| 27 | : 2/1/45 | : 120-09 E | : Unk | : 11 miles | : Unk | : SJ |
| | : 1024 (H) | : 21-40 N | : | : | : |
| 28 | : 2/1/45 | : 120-30 E | : BETTY | : 4 miles | : 140° T. | : Sight |

Remarks
| 19 | : Contact lasted 20 minutes. |
| | : |
| 20 | : Heard motor, then saw plane crossing astern and closing. |
| | : |
| 21 | : Sighted by periscope submerged. |
| | : |
| 22 | : Sighted by periscope submerged. |
| | : |
| 23 | : Heard for five minutes, then faded out. |
| | : |
| 24 | : Heard for 9 minutes, then faded out. |
| | : |
| 25 | : SJ and APR contacts simultaneously. Range opened. |
| | : |
| 26 | : Steady on and lobe switching strong. Submerged. |
| | : |
| 27 | : Range opened. Lost at 23,000 yards. No APR contact. |
| | : |
| 28 | : Sighted through periscope submerged. |

- 38 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 203 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

G.
AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd)

| No. | Time      | Lat.      | Type(s)    | Initial | Est. Course | How   |
|     | Date      | Long.     |            | Range   | Speed       | Cont. |
|-----||||||-------|
| 28  | 1024 (H)  | 21-40 N   | BETTY      | 4 mi.   | 140° T.     | Sight |
|     | 2/1/45    | 120-30 E  |            |         |             |       |
| 29  | 2153 (H)  | 21-35 N   | Unk        | Unk     | Unk         | APR   |
|     | 2/1/45    | 120-37 E  |            |         |             |       |
| 30  | 2336 (H)  | 20-59 N   | Unk        | 7 mi.   | Unk         | SJ    |
|     | 2/1/45    | 120-30 E  |            |         |             |       |
| 31  | 0007 (H)  | 20-58 N   | Unk        | 4 mi.   | Unk         | SJ    |
|     | 2/2/45    | 120-30 E  |            |         |             |       |
| 32  | 0454 (H)  | 19-59 N   | Unk        | 4 mi.   | Unk         | SJ    |
|     | 2/2/45    | 121-04 E  |            |         |             |       |
| 33  | 0820 (H)  | 20-08 N   | Unk        | 20 mi.  | Unk         | SD    |
|     | 2/2/45    | 121-03 E  |            |         |             |       |
| 34  | 0828 (H)  | 20-07 N   | One engine | 2 mi.   | 090° T.     | Sight |
|     | 2/2/45    | 121-03 E  | land plane |         |             |       |
| 35  | 1025 (H)  | 19-58 N   | Unk        | 6 mi.   | Unk         | SD    |
|     | 2/2/45    | 121-09 E  |            |         |             |       |
| 36  | 1110 (H)  | 19-56 N   | Unk        | 10 mi.  | Unk         | SD    |
|     | 2/2/45    | 121-07 E  |            |         |             |       |
| 37  | 1114 (H)  | 19-56 N   | Unk        | 18 mi.  | Unk         | SD    |
|     | 2/2/45    | 121-07 E  |            |         |             |       |

No. : Remarks
    :
28  : Sighted through periscope submerged.
    :
29  : Heard keying for 16 minutes. Saturated 5 minutes.
    :
30  : Closed to 3,000 yards by time antenna submerged.
    :
31  : Opened in range. Remained on surface.
    :
32  :
    :
33  : Minimum range 18 miles.
    :
34  : Heading towards. Submerged.
    :
35  : Closing. Submerged.
    :
36  : Closed to 8 miles, then opened.
    :
37  : Closed to 15 miles, then opened.
    :

- 39 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 204 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

G.

AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd).
: Time : Lat. : Initial : Est. Course : How Con-
NO. : Date : Long. : Type(s) : Range : Speed : tacted
: 1124 (H) : 19-56 N : Three : : 090° T. : Sighted
38 : 2/2/45 : 121-04 E : Fighters : 8 mi. : :
: 1128 (H) : 19-56 N : : : Unk : SD
39 : 2/2/45 : 121-04 E : Unk : 12 mi. : :
: 1310 (H) : 19-56 N : : : Unk : SD
40 : 2/2/45 : 121-11 E : Unk : 22 mi. : :
: 1357 (H) : 20-02 N : Two : : Unk : Sighted
41 : 2/2/45 : 121-00 E : Fighters : 8 mi. : :
: 1610 (H) : 19-53 N : Two : : 190° T. : Sighted
42 : 2/2/45 : 121-03 E : Fighters : 3 mi. : :
: 1743 (H) : 19-57 N : : : Unk : SD
43 : 2/2/45 : 121-03 E : Unk : 9 mi. : :
: 0453 (H) : 20-04 N : : : Unk : APR
44 : 2/3/45 : 121-44 E : Unk : Unk : :
: 1103 (H) : 19-51 N : : : Unk : SD
45 : 2/3/45 : 121-50 E : Unk : 4 mi. : :
: 1130 (H) : 19-51 N : 7 US Army : : Unk : Sighted
46 : 2/3/45 : 121-52 E : Fighters : 500 feet : :
: 1235 (H) : 19-51 N : : : Unk : SD
47 : 2-3-45 : 122-02 E : Unk : 5 mi. : :

No. : Remarks
:
38 : Did not head directly toward.
:
39 : Closed to 2 miles. Submerged. No sighting. No IFF.
:
40 : Using IFF. Minimum range 20 miles.
:
41 : Sighted by high periscope.
:
42 : Sighted by bridge, heading toward us.
:
43 : Did not close. Used IFF.
:
44 : Contact on APR 11 minutes. Saturated 5 minutes.
:
45 : Closed to 1 mile by time antenna went under.
:
46 : Were overhead on surfacing.
:
47 : Closed to 2 miles by time antenna went under.

- 40 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 205 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd)
G.

| No. | Time : Date | Lat. : Long. | Type(s) | Range | Speed | Est. Course | How Con- : tacted |
|-----||||-------|-------|||
| 48  | 2017 (H) : 2/3/45 | 20-15 N : 122-22 E | Unk     | 9 mi. | Unk   |               | APR & SJ          |
| 49  | 2141 (H) : 2/4/45 | 20-29 N : 121-11 E | Unk     | 16 mi. | Unk   |               | SJ                |
| 50  | 2010 (H) : 2/5/45 | 20-15 N : 121-23 E | Unk     | 11 mi. | Unk   |               | APR & SJ          |
| 51  | 2058 (H) : 2/6/45 | 20-15 N : 121-14 E | Unk     | 9 mi. | Unk   |               | SJ                |
| 52  | 2300 (H) : 2/6/45 | 20-12 N : 121-21 E | Unk     | 13 mi. | Unk   |               | SJ                |
| 53  | 2345 (H) : 2/6/45 | 20-10 N : 121-27 E | Unk     | 14 mi. | Unk   |               | SJ                |
| 54  | 0035 (H) : 2/7/45 | 20-08 N : 121-31 E | Unk     | 6 mi. | Unk   |               | SJ                |
| 55  | 0232 (H) : 2/7/45 | 20-04 N : 121-39 E | Unk     | 7 mi. | Unk   |               | SJ                |
| 56  | 0420 (H) : 2/7/45 | 20-03 N : 121-37 E | Unk     | 6 mi. | Unk   |               | SJ                |
| 57  | 1427 (H) : 2/7/45 | 19-48 N : 121-32 E | 3 B-24's or : BETTY's | 10 mi. |       | 180° T.       | Sight             |

| No. | Remarks                                                              |
|-----||
| 48  | APR contact for 17 minutes. Intermittent SJ contact for 15 min. Sub. |
| 49  | Held contact for 17 mi. No APR contact.                              |
| 50  | APR contact followed in 11 minutes by SJ contact.                    |
| 51  | SJ lost contact between 8 and 5 miles. No APR contact.               |
| 52  | No APR contact.                                                      |
| 53  | No APR contact.                                                      |
| 54  | No APR contact.                                                      |
| 55  | No APR contact.                                                      |
| 56  | No APR contact. Single flash of SJ interference, not another SJ.     |
| 57  | Submerged periscope sighting.                                        |

- 41 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 206 —
CONFIDENTIAL
G.
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd).

No. | Time/Date | Lat./Long. | Type(s) | Initial Range | Est. Speed | Course | How Contacted
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
58 | :2206 (H) 2/7/45 | :19-59 N 120-20 E | :Unk | :Unk | :Unk | :APR
59 | :2226 (H) 2/7/45 | :19-58 N 121-25 E | :Unk | :8 mi. | :Unk | :APR & SJ
60 | :0335 (H) 2/8/45 | :19-45 N 121-04 E | :Unk | :Unk | :Unk | :APR
61 | :2053 (H) 2/8/45 | :19-54 N 120-40 E | :Unk | :13 mi. | :Unk | :SJ
62 | :2127 (H) 2/8/45 | :20-29 N 120-37 E | :Unk | :12 mi. | :Unk | :SJ
63 | :2056 (H) 2/9/45 | :20-30 N 120-42 E | :Unk | :Unk | :Unk | :APR
64 | :2155 (H) 2/9/45 | :20-29 N 120-34 E | :Unk | :12 mi. | :Unk | :SJ
65 | :0028 (H) 2/10/45 | :20-30 N 120-25 E | :Unk | :12 mi. | :Unk | :SJ
66 | :0314 (H) 2/10/45 | :20-45 N 120-25 E | :2-Unk | :13 mi. | :Unk | :SJ
67 | :0529 (H) 2/10/45 | :20-45 N 120-22 E | :Unk | :4 mi. | :Unk | :SJ

No. | Remarks
--- | ---
58 | Held APR contact for 9 minutes. No SJ contact.
59 | APR contact 19 minutes ahead of SJ contact. See remarks.
60 | Strong APR, lobe switching, steady on. No SJ contact.
61 | No APR contact for 1st 5 minutes, then keyed.
62 | No APR contact.
63 | No AJ contact. Held on APR 8 minutes.
64 | No APR contact.
65 | No APR contact.
66 | SJ screen showed two planes. No APR contact.
67 | No APR contact.

- 42 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 207 —
CONFIDENTIAL                                                              G.

                                        U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
                                  AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd).

No. : Time    : Lat.    : Type(s) : Initial : Est. Course : How Cont-
    : Date    : Long.   :         : Range   : Speed       : acted.
----::::::
68  : 2050 (H): 20-50 N : Unk     : Unk     : Unk         : APR
    : 2/10/45 : 120-04 E:         :         :             :
----::::::
69  : 2132 (H): 20-49 N : Unk     : 9 mi.   : Unk         : SJ
    : 2/10/45 : 120-15 E:         :         :             :
----::::::
70  : 0005 (H): 21-54 N : Unk     : 3 mi.   : Unk         : SJ
    : 2/12/45 : 122-23 E:         :         :             :
----::::::
71  : 0125 (H): 21-54 N : Unk     : Unk     : Unk         : APR
    : 2/12/45 : 122-28 E:         :         :             :
----::::::
72  : 0238 (H): 22-06 N : Unk     : Unk     : Unk         : APR
    : 2/12/45 : 122-28 E:         :         :             :
----::::::
73  : 0507 (H): 22-25 N : Unk     : 7 mi.   : Unk         : SJ
    : 2/12/45 : 122-28 E:         :         :             :
----::::::
74  : 1554 (H): 22-14 N : 2 PETE's: 3 mi.   : 280° T.     : Sight
    : 2/13/45 : 122-36 E:         :         :             :
----::::::
75  : 0914 (H): 25-08 N : MAVIS   : 2 mi.   : 310° T.     : Sight
    : 2/15/45 : 122-28 E:         :         :             :
----::::::
76  : 0105 (H): 25-10 N : Unk     : 6 mi.   : Unk         : APR & SJ
    : 2/16/45 : 122-28 E:         :         :             :
----::::::

No. : Remarks
----:
68  : No SJ contact. Held on APR for 15 minutes. Was keying.
----:
69  : Closed to 3 mi. then opened. Held contact 9 minutes.
----:
70  : Plane circled for 2 minutes, then started straight in. Range 2,000
    : yards as antenna submerged. No APR contact.
----:
71  : No SJ contact. Held on APR for 3 minutes.
----:
72  : No SJ contact. Held on APR for 9 minutes.
----:
73  : Plane headed in when first detected. No APR contact.
----:
74  : Sighted by periscope submerged.
----:
75  : Sighted by periscope submerged.
----:
76  : Heard on APR 4 minutes before SJ contact.
----:

                                  - 43 -

                                                        ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 208 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. FLAICE (SS390)

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd).

| No. | Time      | Lat.      | Type(s)      | Initial Range | Est. Course Speed | How Contacted |
| :-- | :| :| :| :| :| :|
|     | :1302 (H) | :25-12 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 77  | :2/16/45  | :122-36 E | :FRANCES     | :1 mi.        | :090° T.          | :Sight        |
|     | :0110 (H) | :25-07 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 78  | :2/17/45  | :122-23 E | :Unk         | :7 mi.        | :Unk.             | :APR & SJ     |
|     | :0135 (H) | :25-03 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 79  | :2/18/45  | :122-14 E | :Unk         | :Unk.         | :Unk.             | :APR          |
|     | :0135 (H) | :24-23 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 80  | :2/21/45  | :122-08 E | :Unk         | :Unk.         | :Unk.             | :APR          |
|     | :1058 (H) | :24-07 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 81  | :2/21/45  | :121-46 E | :Unk         | :15 mi.       | :Unk.             | :SJ           |
|     | :1120 (H) | :24-10 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 82  | :2/21/45  | :121-44 E | :Unk.        | :17 mi.       | :Unk.             | :SJ           |
|     | :1145 (H) | :24-12 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 83  | :2/21/45  | :121-42 E | :2 - Unk.    | :19 mi.       | :Unk.             | :SD           |
|     | :1340 (H) | :24-03 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 84  | :2/21/45  | :121-48 E | :1 -single eng | :6 mi.        | :310° T           | :Sight        |
|     | :1130 (H) | :24-36 N  |              |               |                   |               |
| 85  | :2/22/45  | :122-29 E | :Unk         | :8 mi.        | :Unk.             | :SD           |

No. : Remarks
:
77  : Sighted by periscope submerged.
:
78  : Heard on APR 13 minutes before SJ contact.
:
79  : Heard on APR 20 minutes. No SJ contact.
:
80  : Heard on APR 12 minutes. No SJ contact.
:
81  : Not detected by SD.
:
82  : Not detected by SD.
:
83  : Not detected by SJ.
:
84  : Sighted on bridge. No radar contact.
:
85  : Closed to 5 miles as antenna went under.

- 44 -

ENCLOSURE (A,)

— page 209 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

G. AIRCRAFT CONTACTS (Cont'd),

No. | Time | Lat. | Long. | Type(s) | Initial | Est. Course | How Con-
    | Date |      |       |         | Range   | Speed       | tacted
----|------|------|-------||||
86  | 0914(H) | 24-31 N | 122-19 E | Unk. | 30 mi. | Unk. | SD
    | 2/24/45 |      |       |         |         |             |
87  | 1047(H) | 24-42 N | 122-05 E | Unk. | 8 mi. | Unk. | SD & SJ
    | 2/25/45 |      |       |         |         |             |
88  | 1617(H) | 24-34 N | 122-04 E | KATE | 3 mi. | 150° T. | Sight
    | 2/25/45 |      |       |         |         |             |
89  | 0920(H) | 24-36 N | 122-30 E | 2 - ZEKE's | 4 mi. | 110° T. | Sight
    | 2/27/45 |      |       |         |         |             |
90  | 1036(H) | 24-36 N | 122-31 E | IRVIS | 6 mi. | 250° T. | Sight
    | 2/27/45 |      |       |         |         |             |
91  | 1235(H) | 24-28 N | 123-59 E | 4 - Unk. | 6 mi. | Various | Sight
    | 3/1/45 |      |       |         |         |             |
92  | 1345(H) | 25-01 N | 124-42 E | Unk. | 8 mi. | Unk. | SD
    | 3/2/45 |      |       |         |         |             |
93  | 1615(H) | 24-56 N | 124-47 E | 2 engine bomber | 7 mi. | 170° T | Sight
    | 3/2/45 |      |       |         |         |             |

No. | Remarks
----|
86  | Closed to 28 miles, then opened.
87  | Closed to 5½ miles as antenna went under.
88  | Sighted on bridge. No SD or SJ contact.
89  | Sighted on bridge. No SD or SJ contact.
90  | Sighted on bridge. No SD or SJ contact.
91  | Sighted in periscope submerged. U.S. planes attacking harbor.
92  | Closed to 5 miles as antenna went under.
93  | Sighted on bridge. No SD or SJ contact.

- 45 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 210 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

G.
AIRCRAFT CONTACTS

| No. | Time | Date | Lat. | Long. | Type(s) | INITIAL RANGE | EST. SPEED | COURSE | HOW CONTACTED |
|---|
| 94 | 1414 (H) | | 24-40 N | | SALLY | | 220° T. | | Sight |
|    |        | 3/3/45 |         | 124-29 E | NATE | 3 mi. | | | |
| 95 | 1702 (H) | | 24-45 N | | 2- ZEKE'S | 4 mi. | 230° T. | | Sight |
|    |        | 3/3/45 |         | 124-24 E | | | | | |
| 96 | 0315 (K) | | 14-53 N | | Unk | 8 mi. | Unk | | SD Radar |
|    |        | 3/13/45 |         | 144-20 E | | | | | |
| 97 | 0415 (K) | | 14-58 N | | Unk | 8 mi. | Unk | | SD Radar |
|    |        | 3/13/45 |         | 144-26 E | | | | | |
| 98 | 0735 (K) | | 14-59 N | | B-24 | 15 mi. | 025° T. | | Sight, SD, |
|    |        | 3/13/45 |         | 144-26 E | | | | | SJ Radar |
| 99 | 1750 (K) | | 16-02 N | | 2 B-29's | 19 mi. | 250° T. | | Sight, SD, |
|    |        | 3/13/45 |         | 145-03 E | | | | | SJ Radar |
| 100 | 1840 (K) | | 16-04 N | | B-29 | 21 mi. | 250° T. | | Sight, SD, |
|    |        | 3/13/45 |         | 145-05 E | | | | | SJ Radar |
| 101 | 1913 (K) | | 16-09 N | | Unk | 11 mi. | Unk | | SD |
|    |        | 3/13/45 |         | 145-12 E | | | | | |
| 102 | | | | | B-29 | Var | Var | | Sight, SD, | SJ Radar |

NO. : Remarks
94 : Sighted through periscope submerged.
95 : Sighted through periscope submerged.
96 : Was using IFF.
97 : Was using IFF.
98 : Did not use IFF.
99 : Was using IFF.
100 : Did not use IFF.
101 : Did not use IFF.
102 : A fleet of approximately 200 passed over.

- 46 -

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 211 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
H. ATTACK DATA.
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 4
Time (Zone) 1714 (H) Date 1 March, 1945 Lat. 24-30-30N Long. 124-02-30E
TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: One small passenger-freighter similar to MARUSA MARU (LU),
one engines-aft freighter, Standard "B" Class Cargo Ship,
Type 45 (EC) in line abreast escorted by a CHIDORI TB (EC)
ahead and to starboard, and a KAI BOKU DE (EC) ahead of
and between the freighter. The formation was making 10
knots on base course 350° T., zig-zagging independently.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged or
probably sunk: Standard "B" Class Cargo Ship, Type 45.

Damage Determined
by: Heard one hit, 20 seconds after 4th torpedo should have hit
by time.

Target draft - 8' Course 350° Speed 10 Range 1180 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA
Speed 4.5 Course 270° Depth 63' Angle 1° down (at firing)

Type Attack: Submerged periscope attack. Plan was to fire stern tubes
at the engine aft freighter and bow tubes at the passenger-
freighter. The second attack was frustrated by the port
escort commencing a depth charge attack. Believe torpedoes
were set too deep., or two hits would have been made. Both
freighters on close examination appeared empty.

- 47 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 212 —
CONFIDENTIAL

                                                                H.
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)                                   ATTACK DATA (Cont'd).
                                                       TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1
                                                                                                WAR PATROL NO. 4

Tubes Fired             : 7             : 8             : 9             : 10
Track Angle             : 82 P          : 88 P          : 96 P          : 100 P
Gyro Angle              : 178-25        : 172-00        : 165-30        : 159-30
Depth Set               : 10            : 10            : 10            : 10
Hit or miss             : Miss          : Miss          : Miss          : Hit
Speed Set               : 29.29         : 29.29         : 29.29         : 29.29
Erratic                 : No            : No            : No            : No
(Yes or No)
Mark Torpedo            : 18-1          : 18-1          : 18-1          : 18-1
Serial No.              : 54692         : 56143         : 55197         : 55281
Mark Exploder           : 8-5           : 8-5           : 8-5           : 8-5
Serial No.              : 10231         : 0606          : 8613          : 8759
Actuation Set           : Contact       : Contact       : Contact       : Contact
Actuation Actual        : None          : None          : None          : Contact
Mark Warhead            : 18-2          : 18-2          : 18-2          : 18-2
Serial No.              : 3238          : 3376          : 3217          : 3371
Explosive               : TPX           : TPX           : TPX           : TPX
Firing Inter.           : 0             : 10            : 20            : 30
Type Spread             : 4½ R          : 1½ R          : 1½ L          : 4½ L
Sea Conditions          : 2             : 2             : 2             : 2
Overhaul Activity       : USS FULTON    : USS FULTON    : USS FULTON    : USS FULTON
Torpedo Run, Yds.       : 1010          : 1075          : 1100          : 1120
Torpedo Run, Secs.      :               :               :               : 87
Remarks:

                                - 48 -                                ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 213 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
H. ATTACK DATA (Cont'd).
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 2] W.R. PATROL NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 4]
Time (Zone) [HANDWRITTEN: 2350 (H)] Date [HANDWRITTEN: 1 March 1945] Lat. [HANDWRITTEN: 25-28.00 N] Long. [HANDWRITTEN: 123-57E]

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Same target group as in Attack No. 1. All four ships were
in line abreast with escorts, 3,000 yards on either beam.
Fired at near escort, believed to be KIBOKAN class DD.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged or
probably sunk: None

Damage Determined by:

Target Draft [HANDWRITTEN: 7'] Course [HANDWRITTEN: 350°] Speed [HANDWRITTEN: 9] Range [HANDWRITTEN: 4080] (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed [HANDWRITTEN: 10] Course [HANDWRITTEN: 280°] Depth [HANDWRITTEN: Surface] Angle [HANDWRITTEN: 0°] (at firing)

Type Attack: Night surface attack. Plan was to sink the destroyer, then go
after each merchantmen in turn. Started attack from ahead close
to the track to permit diving in case full moon emerged from
the clouds. Turned for a stern tube shot. Target zigged away,
leaving long range shot. Two torpedoes observed to broach in
trough of force three sea. Fire control solution checked per-
fect in both range and bearing. Believe torpedoes were set too
shallow to run true in the prevailing seas.

- 49 - ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 214 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
H. ATTACK DATA (Cont'd).
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) | TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 | WAR PATROL NO. 4

The following is a transcription of the image, distinguishing between typed and handwritten text.

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
H. ATTACK DATA (Cont'd).
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) | TORPEDO ATTACK NO. ____ 2 ____ | WAR PATROL NO. ____ 4 ____

The user wants me to transcribe the text from the image. I will go through the image and transcribe all visible text, noting any distinctions between typed and handwritten text.

**Transcription Plan:**
1.  Identify the main header and sub-headers.
2.  Transcribe the table content row by row, column by column.
3.  Transcribe the "Remarks" section.
4.  Transcribe the page number and enclosure note at the bottom.
5.  Ensure accurate spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.
6.  Maintain the tabular structure using `|` as a separator.

**Execution:**

**Header Section:**
- CONFIDENTIAL
- U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
- H. ATTACK DATA (Cont'd).
- U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
- TORPEDO ATTACK NO. ____ 2 ____
- WAR PATROL NO. ____ 4 ____

**Table Section:**
The table has columns for Torpedo Attack Numbers 7, 8, 9, and 10.

| | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tubes Fired | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| Track Angle | 81 P | 82 P | 83 P | 84 P |
| Gyro Angle | 170 | 169 | 167 | 166 |
| Depth Set | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Hit or Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss |
| Speed Set | 27.87 | 27.87 | 27.87 | 27.87 |
| Erratic (Yes or No) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mark Torpedo | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 |
| Serial No. | 56224 | 55276 | 55507 | 56094 |
| Mark Exploder | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 |
| Serial No. | 9903 | 8731 | 7090 | 8190 |
| Actuation Set | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact |
| Actuation Actual | End Run | End Run | End Run | End Run |
| Mark Warhead | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| Serial No. | 3257 | 2142 | 2532 | 3356 |
| Explosive | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX |
| Firing Inter. | 0 | 10 | 20 | 30 |
| Type Spread | 3/4 R | 1 R | 1 L | 3/4 L |
| Sea Conditions | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Overhaul Activity | USS FULTON | USS FULTON | USS FULTON | USS FULTON |
| Torpedo Run, Yds. | 3575 | 3575 | 3575 | 3575 |
| Torpedo Run, Secs. | 6' 50" | 6' 50" | 6' 50" |

— page 215 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
H. ATTACK DATA (Cont'd).
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 WAR PATROL NO. 4
Time (Zone) 0101 (H) Date 2 March 1945 Lat. 25-35-00 N Long. 124-01 E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Same target group as attacks Nos. 1 and 2. Same target as
attack No. 2. Target had closed to 500 yards off port beam
of port freighter.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged or
probably sunk: None

Damage Determined by:

Target Draft: 7' Course 020° Speed 9 Range 3050 (at firing)

OWN SHIP DATA

Speed 5.5 Course 110° Depth Surface Angle 0° (at firing)

Type Attack: Night surface attack. Used essentially same plan as attack
No. 2, except approach was made from further off the track
and range was closed more, because of favorable cloud condi-
tions. Targets overlapped at the time of firing. Three tor-
pedoes were observed to broach in the trough of a force three
sea. It is believed the depth setting was too shallow for
the torpedoes to run in the prevailing seas.

- 51 -
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 216 —
CONFIDENTIAL

H. ATTACK DATA (Cont'd).
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 PATROL NO. 4

Tubes Fired : 1 : 2 : 3 : 4
Track Angle : 84 P : 87 P : 90 P : 92 P
Gyro Angle : 004-00 : 002-30 : 359-30 : 358-00
Depth Set : 3 : 3 : 3 : 3
Hit or Miss : Miss : Miss : Miss : Miss
Speed Set : 28.03 : 28.03 : 28.03 : 28.03
Erratic
(Yes or No) : Yes : Yes : Yes : Yes
Mark Torpedo : 18-1 : 18-1 : 18-1 : 18-1
Serial No. : 9135 : 8746 : 9890 : 9701
Actuation Set : Contact : Contact : Contact : Contact
Actuation Actual : End Run : None : End Run : End Run
Mark Warhead : 18-2 : 18-2 : 18-2 : 18-2
Serial No. : 4211 : 4009 : 3819 : 4171
Explosive : TPX : TPX : TPX : TPX
Firing Inter. : 0 : 10 : 20 : 30
Type Spread : 1½ R : 1½ R : 1½ L : 1½ L
Sea Conditions : 3 : 3 : 3 : 3
Overhaul Activity: USS SPERRY : USS SPERRY : USS SPERRY : USS SPERRY
Torpedo Run, Yds.: 2900 : 2870 : 2825 : 2800
Torpedo Run, Secs.: 7' 00" : --- : 7' 00" : 7' 00"
Remarks: Three torpedoes were observed throwing spray with their propellers in
each wave trough. Rough estimate places torpedoes running 10° right
of generated true course.

- 52 - ENCLOSURE (A.)

— page 226 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION TWO HUNDRED FORTY-TWO
FB5-242/A16-3
Care of Fleet Post Office,
Serial: (07)
San Francisco, California,
29 March 1945.
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
C.O., USS PLAICE Report
of 4th War Patrol, serial
(03) of 23 March 1945.

From: The Commander Submarine Division TWO HUNDRED FORTY-TWO.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-FOUR.
(2) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet.
(3) The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet.

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

1. The fourth war patrol of PLAICE was conducted in the Luzon Strait
and in waters off the east coast of Formosa. This patrol was of 59 days duration,
39 of which were spent in the assigned areas.

2. During the period 2-10 February, PLAICE formed a coordinated attack
group with ARCHERFISH, BATFISH, BLACKFISH, and SCABBARDFISH, with the Commanding
Officer of PLAICE, Commander C. B. STEVENS, Jr., as Group Commander. The purpose
of this group was to intercept and destroy enemy evacuation traffic from Luzon
to Formosa. BATFISH damaged an enemy landing craft and sank an enemy submarine
during this period. From 11 February through 1 March PLAICE formed a coordinated
attack group with SCABBARDFISH and SEA POACHER; with Commander C. B. STEVENS as
Group Commander. In addition to offensive patrolling, life guard services were
furnished by both of the above coordinated attack groups.

3. Only one worthwhile torpedo contact was made by PLAICE during this
patrol. This was a convoy consisting of a small passenger freighter and a medium
size cargo vessel with two escorts. PLAICE made three attacks on this group.
In the first, a daylight submerged attack, four Mark 18-1 torpedoes were fired at
the cargo vessel, range about 1180 yards, average tracks 91°, average gyros 11°,
depth set 10 feet. One hit was heard. While preparing to fire at the passenger
freighter, PLAICE was driven deep by depth charging. One pattern of eight depth
charges appeared on DCI as a perfect straddle. Following end around runs PLAICE
made two more night surface attacks on the same target group without obtaining
hits. Torpedoes were set on depth 3 feet for both of these attacks. In the first
of these night attacks four torpedoes were fired at a destroyer escort. Target
had zigged away just before firing, this resulted in a firing range from stern
tubes of about 4,000 yards with mean tracks 82°, mean gyros 12°. Two torpedoes
of this attack were observed to broach in trough of Condition 3 sea. Four end
of run explosions were heard. In the second night attack four more torpedoes were
fired at the same escort, range 3,000 yards, mean track 88°, mean gyros 001°.
Three of these torpedoes were seen to broach. Three end of run explosions were
heard. Following these disheartening results, PLAICE secured from making attacks
to examine torpedo fire control system, tubes and torpedoes in hopes of determining
causes for misses. Nothing was found wrong, shallow depth settings may have
caused misses. Four PLAICE patrol torpedoes have been fired since she returned

- 1 -

— page 227 —
SUBMARINE DIVISION TWO HUNDRED FORTY-TWO
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
29 March 1945.

FB5-242/A16-3
Serial: (07)

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
C.O., USS PLAICE Report
of 4th War Patrol, serial
(08) of 23 March 1945.

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

— page 228 —
FC5-24/A16-3
Serial: 066
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO, USS PLAICE Report
of 4th War Patrol, ser
(08) of 23 March 1945.

From:
To :
Via :

Subject:

1.
Submarine Division TWO FORTY-TWO.

2.
the Commanding Officer, officers and crew of the U.S.S. PLAICE on the
completion of another patrol made particularly arduous by heavy enemy
air activity. SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY-FOUR

11/dn

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
30 March 1945.

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

U.S.S. PLAICE - Report of War Patrol Number FOUR.

Forwarded, concurring in the remarks of Commander

The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY-FOUR congratulates

F. W. FENNO.

— page 229 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial: 0767
CONFIDENTIAL

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
10 April 1945.

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

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
Fourth War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 708
U.S.S. PLAICE - 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. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of Fourth War Patrol
(23 January to 23 March 1945).

1. The fourth war patrol of the PLAICE, under the command
of Commander C. B. Stevens, Jr., U.S. Navy, was conducted in the Luzon
Straits-Formosa Area. The PLAICE along with the U.S.S. ARCHER-FISH
(SS311), the U.S.S. BATFISH (SS310), the U.S.S. BLACKFISH (SS221) and
the U.S.S. SCABBARD-FISH (SS397) formed a coordinated attack group dur-
ing the first part of the patrol; and the U.S.S. SCABBARD-FISH, and
U.S.S. SEA POACHER (SS406) joined as a group for the latter part of
the patrol. The commanding officer of the PLAICE was group commander
in both instances.

2. This long, arduous patrol in the face of intense enemy
anti-submarine aircraft measures resulted in but one contact worthy of
torpedo fire. This contact consisted of a small freighter, a medium
freighter, and three escorts. The PLAICE made three determined attacks
on the convoy. The first attack resulted in one hit but the other two
were unsuccessful, possibly due to faulty torpedo performance. Four
of the torpedoes carried by the PLAICE on patrol were test fired after
return results of which firing are the subject of a separate report.

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 PLAICE for
this aggressive patrol and for adding the following damage to the
enemy to the already sizable score of the PLAICE:

D A M A G E D
1 - AK (Standard "B" Class Type 45)(EC) - 4,400 tons (Attack No. 1)

MERRILL COMSTOCK.

Authentication and distribution
on following page.
- 1 -

— page 231 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
13 June 1945.

SS390/A16-3
S E C R E T ( 0130 )
[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
C O N F I D E N T I A L

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

Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol, U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Track Chart (To Comsubpac only).

1. Enclosure (A) covering the fifth war patrol of this
vessel conducted in the KURILE ISLAND CHAIN during the period
26 April to 13 June 1945, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: R. S. Andrews]
R. S. ANDREWS.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: op 0989C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72]]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 128001]

— page 232 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt

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

— page 233 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS396),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt

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

— page 234 —
CONFIDENTIAL
.U.S.S. FLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt

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

— page 235 —
CONFIDENTIAL
                                                                Lt
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

NOON POSITIONS

1200 (M) April 28, 1945 Lat. 29-06.3 N; Long. 178-51.7 E.
1200 (M) April 29, 1945 Lat. 30-58.4 N; Long. 173-34.5 E.
1200 (L) April 30, 1945 Lat. 33-27.8 N; Long. 169-28.3 E.
1200 (L) May 1, 1945 Lat. 37-00.0 N; Long. 165-42.3 E.
1200 (L) May 2, 1945 Lat. 39-28.2 N; Long. 162-22.3 E.

May 3, 1945:

0350 (K) Made trim dive on course 313° T. and Pgc.

0435 (K) Surfaced.

0940 (K) Dove for routining of all torpedoes. Left Task Group 17.17 with orders
         to proceed independently to area for patrol.

1030 (K) Held fire control problem.

1200 (K) Position: Lat. 42-44.7 N; Long. 158-12.6 E.

1637 (K) Surfaced on course 313° T. and Pgc. in a force seven sea, with waves
         from 30' to 40' from 260° T. Wind 25-30 knots, with sleet. Tempera-
         ture 33° F. Changed course to 280° T. and Pgc to help ease the roll.
         Speed 5 knots.

1700 (K) Barometer began rising. Rose 0.15 from 1700 to 1800.

2010 (K) Entered area (Club Car) assigned.

2051 (K) Changed course to 315° T. and Pgc, increased speed to 15 knots.

May 4, 1945:

0341 (K) Made trim dive.

0428 (K) Surfaced.

1030 (K) Held fire control problem.

1200 (K) Position: Lat. 44-21.0 N; Long. 155-36.1 E.

2040 (K) Exchanged calls with SE.POACHER bearing 150° T., on SJ.

2125 (K) Exchanged calls with POMFRET bearing 305° T., on SJ.

— page 237 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt.
Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLICE.

— page 238 —
U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
T+

CONFIDENTIAL

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

— page 239 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

CONFIDENTIAL

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

May 9, 1945:

0227 (I) Patrolling up coast of URUPPU TO toward SHIMUSHIRU TO.
0300 (I) Dove.
0405 (I) Surfaced and continued surface patrol.
1030 (I) Held damage control and fire control drill.
1032 (I) APR contact, 156 mgs. back again. Faded out and came in periodic 11.
1200 (I) Position: Lat. 46-01.0 N; Long. 150-56.0 E.
1345 (I) Sighted SHIMUSHIRU TO bearing 040° T.
1745 (I) Began steering various courses and speeds to investigate ship-like
           object on beach. Fog closed in to 2,000 yards.
1800 (I) Lookout reported periscope bearing 260° T., 2,500 yards. Took evasive
           action and went to flank speed on 4 main engines. Contact very doubt-
           ful, but!
1835 (I) Resumed base course up coast of SHIMUSHIRU.

May 10, 1945:

           Having reached northern limit of area, reversed course and stood down
           on 220° T. and Pgc.
0224 (I) Dove, and surfaced at 0330 (I).
0425 (I) Began steering various courses and speeds to complete investigation
           of south end of SHIMUSHIRU.
0430 (I) Sighted freighter on beach. Forward half aground; after half not vis-
           ible. Resumed course 220° T. and Pgc for patrol across KITO WAN
           SUIDO.
1000 (I) Reversed course to 040° T. and Pgc.
1010 (I) Damage control and fire control drill.
1200 (I) Position: Lat. 46-20.0 N; Long. 151-09.9 E.
1456 (I) Reversed course to 220° T. and Pgc.

-8-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 240 —
CONFIDENTIAL
J:
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

— page 241 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE. Lt.

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

May 12, 1945:

Patrolling to north and northwest of SHIKOTAN in hopes of catching
any early morning traffic leaving SHIKOTAN KO.

0430 (I) SJ contact bearing 015° t., 3,500 yards. Fog lifted, contact disap-
peared. False echoes which are prevalent in this area.

0605 (I) Dove six miles off SHIKOTAN KO for submerged patrol of area between
that point and KUNASHIRI SUIDO. Visibility varied continually from
1,000 yards to unlimited. Spread CO2 absorbent.

1000 (I) Held damage control drill.

1200 (I) Position: Lat. 44-07.8 N; Long. 146-40.5 E.

1900 (I) Surfaced and changed course to 060° t and pgc.

2000 (I) Changed course to 240° t and pgc.

2030 (I) Changed course to 270° t and pgc and began approach to KUNASHIRI KAIKO.

2100 (I) Changed course to 350° t and pgc, and changed speed to standard on two
engines. Began passage of SUIDO. Night intensely black, with a bit
icy sleet. Sea 4, with every wave illuminated by phosphorous. Lit
bean and hunks of phosphorous flew across ship in a continual stream.
The ship was beautifully illuminated. All we needed was a searchlight
to complete the picture.

2300 (I) Passage completed into Sea of OKHOTSK. Changed course to 030° t and
pgc, and slowed to two-thirds on one main engine for patrol up west
coast of ETOROFU.

May 13, 1945:

Patrolling up coast of ETOROFU toward mined area off ETOROFU KO.

0208 (I) Sighted white light bearing 052° t. Attempted to develop contact with
no results.

0240 (I) SJ radar contact bearing 068° t, 5,900 yards. Turned away (240° t and
pgc) and commenced tracking. As range closed, and dawn began to break,
could make out several vessels in target group. Radar had 6-8 pips
which later developed into 8 gun targets, four large and four small.
Went to battle stations, gun action. Ship Contact 1.
Targets more or less in column on course 225° t, speed 6. Turned to
port, course 040° t and pgc. Put head of column on port bow, thus
gaining weather gage, dark background, and closing range.
See Battle Surface Chart.

-10-

— page 243 —
CONFIDENTIAL

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

U.S.S. FLOUNDER (SS290).
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

May 13, 1945 (Cont'd):

Attack VI - With no 4" and 40 MM left, decided to turn our attention
to remaining small vessels who were rapidly streaking for the shelter
of UT.SUTU some 6 miles from us. Set out for them at flank
speed on 4 engines. Manned 2 - 50 cals, 1 - balking and unreliable
20 MM, 2 - Tommy guns, 2 - carbines, plus 2 - 45 automatics. Wasn't
too keen about this phase as the U.S.S. FLOUNDER was reported
fortifications and we all were in plain sight of the beach. Had life
saving gear on topside in hopes of getting a prisoner. Came down star-
board side of target and herded him to seaward. He had every oppor-
tunity to surrender, but turned toward instead, and attempted to ram.
At 0530 opened up with everything on the bridge. Range varied from
500 to 75 yards. Target got inside our turning circle as I swung left,
and attempted to run at every opportunity. 20 MM jammed repeatedly
leaving us with only 50 cal guns and small arms. This target was
left riddled, and damaged at 0530.
Attack VII - Closed on target #7 who had by this time closed to within
3 miles of beach. Withheld fire as we cut him off from beach and cir-
cled him to right. Time went on and no response or sign of surrender.
and again opened up with everything available.
Results: The same as for Attack #6. The 20 MM jammed and balked,
while the 50 cals and small arms kept up a constant hubbub.
Target him damaged, strafed and dead in water at 0540.
Decided our luck had held out long enough, so pulled out to sea after a
firing for three hours. As we passed target of attack #6, those guns
that were still loaded, or had ammunition available, unloaded through
the muzzle in his direction.

0615 (I) Fired last shot, secured from battle stations, gun action and stood
out to sea on 4 main engines on course 270° t and psc.

Ammunition expended:
100 rounds 4" H.C. and common.
512 rounds 40 MM HEI and HLT.
1200 rounds 20 MM APT and incendiary.
3150 rounds .50 cal. A.P., incendiary, and
tracer.
180 rounds .45 cal. ball.
100 rounds .30 cal. carbine.

Damage sustained from enemy: None.

Damage sustained from selves: One (1) center line antenna lead-in.
(NOTE: one .50 cal. gunner says he
shot it away with Tommy gun, but this
is vehemently denied).

Although this was the first gun action for the FLOUNDER it had been

-12-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 244 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

13 May 1945 (Cont'd):
          thoroughly trained for and anticipated by all hands. Their response
          in the face of "buck-fever", return fire and birds was
          to behold. Their only regret was the lack of more ammunition.

0737 (I)  Dove.

1200 (I)  Position: Lat. 44-57.00 N; Long. 146-18.00 E.

1630 (I)  Surfaced, making standard speed on 3 main engines. Changed course to
          026° t and pgc for rendezvous at 1000 (I) tomorrow with Task Group
          17.17. (250 miles to go).

1632 (I)  Starboard lookout reported 2 aircraft (TCJO) bearing 035° t., about
          7 miles. Checked lookout's report, saw nothing and stayed up. --
          dive now would delay our rendezvous. LC #4.

1636 (I)  Port lookout reported one plane 5° on port bow. Stayed up. Believe
          both contacts were result of gun battle nerves or actual sightings on
          mid-winged birds which glide for hours up here and are unfortunately
          plentiful. LC #5.

14 May 1945:

          On course 026° t and pgc making standard on 3 engines (16 knots),
          heading for 1000 (I) rendezvous with Task Group 17.17.

0437 (I)  Received PIPER'S 131248 (Z)(132148)(I) via Fox schedule cancelling
          rendezvous. Changed course to 225° t and pgc and ran fruitless 12
          hours run.

1200 (I)  Position: Lat. 46-52.30 N; Long. 146-51.5 E.

1234 (I)  Passed close aboard to small abandoned fishing boat which was broken
          in two, and had apparently been drifting for days.

2000 (I)  Changed course to 261° t and pgc to close SAKHALIN. Plan to close
          island, head for LA PEROUSE STRAIT, then return to KURILE ISLAND
          area for further patrol in accordance with Task Group 17.17's orders.

15 May 1945:

0123 (I)  SJ contact on SAKHALIN, bearing 255° t., distance 75,000 yards.

0244 (I)  Sight contact on SAKHALIN.

0258 (I)  Dove.

-13-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 245 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Calif.

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

— page 246 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

— page 247 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. FLIER (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

Lt.
Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. FLIER.

— page 249 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

19 May 1945 (Cont'd):

0537 (I) Investigated erroneous visual contact on floating mine. Object was a
         barrel.

0709 (I) Changed course to 090° t and pgc.

1015 (I) SJ contact on ETOROFU JIMA bearing 167° t., distance 82,000 yards.

1040 (I) Changed course to 180° t and pgc.

1140 (I) Sighted ETOROFU bearing 175° t.

1200 (I) Position: Lat. 45-45.0 N; Long. 147-43.00 E.

1305 (I) Changed course to 075° t and pgc to patrol along northwest coast of
         ETOROFU toward ETOROFU KAIKYO.

1529 (I) Sighted aircraft (VAL) bearing 170° t, distance 3 miles, and coming in.
         Dove. A.C. #8.

1530 (I) One bomb to port and close, just as we passed 60 feet. Changed course
         to 000° t and pgc.

1531 (I) Second bomb to port, not too close, as we passed 90'. Hydraulic suction
         line to control valve for bow plane rigging carried away but was re-
         paired immediately. Small amount of cork flew off here and there.
         Just prior to sighting aircraft, crew heard American airmen on 6.35 mc/s
         giving latitude and longitude. Last words that could be remembered
         were "----FLASH -- William Army Ten Over and Out". Do not consider
         there is any connection between the two, but!

1636 (I) JP contact at 068° t. Came to 40 feet for good look but could see
         nothing.

1639 (I) While at 60 feet with glass down, heard and felt one distant depth
         charge.

1640 (I) Second depth charge. Either the Japs think they see us or some whale
         (many sighted around us) is getting a working over.

1725 (I) Taking a sweep prior to surfacing. Sighted plane 300 yards to port
         which had just passed over us and was making a sharp turn to right.
         Went to 150 feet. AC #9.

1930 (I) Surfaced and set course 090° t and pgc to close ETOROFU KAIKYO and
         patrol up west coast of URUPPU TO, in hopes of picking up SJ contact
         which had faded out on 060° t.

-18-
EN LOSI

— page 250 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

Lt.

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

— page 251 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. ILAICE (33390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt.

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

— page 252 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390);
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco; California.
Lt

CONFIDENTIAL

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

22 May 1945 (Cont'd):

1930 (I) APR contact, 156 mgs, 490 cps, 12 mcs. We are now 60 miles from nearest land,
  HITOKAPFU TO. This contact stayed on us at full saturation
  for periods of 8-10 minutes.

2030 (I) APR contact, 156 mgs., 490 cps., 5 to 7 mcs. At this time we were 74
  miles from nearest land. This contact was being keyed irregularly
  such as "on" 2 minutes, "off" 1 minute, "on" 3 minutes, "off" 5, etc.
  It was never on long enough to swing ship for a direction check. Al-
  though we had experienced this contact before for short periods while
  close to land, its strength and persistence frankly had us puzzled.
  Our SJ was clear as was our SD when occasionally it would
  possibly have been a shipborne radar but we believe it was shore based
  near HITOKAPFU. Its PRF being 490 cps, practically eliminated its
  being airborne, as most airborne radars have a PRF from 700-1000 cps.

2130 (I) Doubtful SJ interference for 15 seconds.

2203 (I) All APR contacts faded out.

2250 (I) Received PIPER'S fourth ordering us to resume rotating patrol on the
  25th.

23 May 1945:

0401 (I) APR contact 156 mgs., 490 cps., 5-7 mcs., back in, sweeping weakly.
  Stayed on periodically until 1113.

0600 (I) Changed course to 000° t and pgc.

1030 (I) Fire control drill.

1113 (I) Made trim dive. Conducted sonar tests on port and starboard shafts.
  Found a definite squeak on port shaft from 100 to 120 RPM. Super-
  structure vibration at speeds of 3.0 knots and over was very pro-
  nounced. See Section "H".

1157 (I) Surfaced.

1200 (I) Position: Lat. 45-15.1 N; Long. 151-06.2 E.

1607 (I) SJ contact on URUPPU TO, bearing 313° t, 83,000 yards.

1907 (I) Changed course to 090° t and pgc to head out on easterly leg of D-N
  patrol off island chain.

-21-
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 253 —
[HANDWRITTEN: ,t]

CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390);
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

24 May 1945:

0450 (I) Patrolling on 090° t and pgc.
0450 (I) Changed course to 000° t and pgc.
1000 (I) Conducted damage control drill.
1005 (I) SJ radar contact on R.SHUA TO bearing 339° t, distant 95,000 yards.
1105 (I) Dove on SD "cowbell" signal for drill purposes. Running at various
        speeds conducting sonar tests with JP on port shaft.
        Found definite squeak at 100 turns on port shaft.
        At 120 turns (3.4 kts.) vibration in superstructure very prominent.
        Squeak present but not as audible as at 100 RPM.
        At 100 turns on both shafts (4.5 kts.) squeak audible, with excessive
        vibration in superstructure which comes and goes in a cycle. See
        Section "K".
1140 (I) Surfaced.
1200 (I) Position: Lat. 47-28.4 N; Long. 153-30.2 E.
1306 (I) Changed course to 090° t and pgc. Obtained radar fix on IIMURI JIMA
        and R.SHUA TO.
1605 (I) Changed course to 013° t and pgc to head toward SHASHUKOTAN TC.
1611 (I) APR contact, weak and sweeping on 108 mgs., 500 cys., 12 secs. Believed
        to be air warning radar on MATSUWA TO (Former experience).
2010 (I) SJ contact on SHASHUKOTAN, bearing 339° t, distant 89,000 yards.
2302 (I) Changed course to 000° t and pgc for approach to SHASHUKOTAN KAIKYO.
        Changed speed to standard on 2 main engines.

25 May 1945:

0001 (I) Began transit of KAIKYO, on course 315° t and pgc, making full speed
        on 2 engines. Steered various courses to offset currents ranging from
        1.5 to 4.5 knots. See Section "D".
0125 (I) Completed passage of SHASHUKOTAN KAIKYO and entered assigned area, D.
        Conch. Reduced speed to standard on one engine.
0420 (I) Changed course to 000° t and pgc, patrolling to west of HONSHU I.
0610 (I) Sighted HONSHU I., which (as advertised), looked like a ship under
        full sail.

-22-
(ENCLOSURE (A))

— page 254 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

CONFIDENTIAL

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

25 May 1945 (Cont'd):

0914 (I) Changed course to 095° t and pgc to head for OMEKOTAN KAIKYO.

1016 (I) Made trim dive and at

1041 (I) Surfaced.

1045 (I) Held fire control drill.

1200 (I) Position: Lat. 50-12.3 N; Lon. 154-29.00 E.

1230 (I) Patrolling on surface across west entrance to OMEKOTAN KAIKYO.

1924 (I) SJ interference bearing 297° t. Intensity increased until about 1945,
          at which time it began to fade and was lost at 2140. We matched their
          pulse rate and attempted repeatedly to challenge. Operator believed
          he once heard an answer but it was too weak to distinguish. Believe
          radar was on POMFRET enroute to her area to east of us.

2134 (I) Changed course to 000° t and pgc to pass clear of ARAIDO TO.

2355 (I) Changed course to 034° t and pgc to patrol across PARAMUSHIRU KAIKYO.

26 May 1945:

0300 (I) Ice began to form on bridge, superstructure and radio antennas to a
          depth of ¼". Air temperature according to protected thermometer was
          31° F.

0430 (I) Changed course to 351° t and pgc to head up west coast of KAMCHATKA.
          The "Japanese Fishing Book" states that there is a possibility of un-
          charted floating cannery as far north as area 6 which embraces
          latitude 55° N. Lack of dependable charts makes navigation a problem
          as soundings do not agree in various places, and mountains are so far
          inland on KAMCHATKA that radar cuts are nil. Course 351° t and pgc
          will keep us 30 miles off shore in water from 30 to 40 fathoms.

1004 (I) Made drill dive operating all hydraulic machinery in hand power. #7
          MBT vent could not be opened by hand and #6 "C" & "D" MBT vent opened
          very slowly and late, thus giving the boat a large and uncomfortable
          (25°) down angle. At 95 feet resorted to the old stand-by, "Back,
          Blow and Pray"! At

1008 (I) Surfaced.

1030 (I) Dove to check #7 and 6 MBT vents; both were sluggish in power and #7
          could not be opened by hand. Will overhaul tonight with #7 flooded.
          At

-23-
(ENCLOSURE (A))

— page 255 —
CONFIDENTIAL
                                                                U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.

                                                                Lt.

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

— page 256 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San. Francisco, California.
L

CONFIDENTIAL

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

27 May 1945 (Cont'd):

slightest idea we were around, and her guns were not manned (at that
moment).

0700 (I) Surfaced with target 6,000 yards on starboard quarter, Broke out and
hoisted the colors.

0703 (I) Tanker saw us, bent on speed, turned away, and at

0705 (I) Opened fire on us. Fused shell burst near us but did not wait to find
out exactly where.

0707 (I) Dove on course 126° t and pgc then changed course to 165° t and pgc.

0723 (I) Surfaced and continued patrolling on course 165° t and pgc. Target now
18,000 yards away and going over the hill at 18-20 knots. When colors
were hoisted quartermaster deliberately stretched them out so they
were broadside to target.
Had exceptionally good four hour tracking drill, despite the burning up
of 1,000 gallons of oil, and the ultimate disappointment of finding
target friendly (?).

1002 (I) Sighted mast on horizon, bearing 160° t, range 14,000 yards approximate-
ly, angle on bow zero. Posit: Lat. 55°-07.1 N; Long. 154°-01.3 E - 4-5
miles off NAGAEVO route. SC #5.

1005 (I) Dove, and at

1009 (I) Went to Battle Stations, torpedo. Began approach.

1100 (I) With a 1,600 yard torpedo run, 90° port track, identified target as sim-
ilar to Russian freighter, Volga Class (RION), 3,113 tons, page 5 of
AIC NORPAC #653 revised, properly marked, on course 320° t, speed 10.
Once again we were undetected, and target's guns were unmanned. Let
conning tower personnel have a look through periscope to help kill time
while target stood on and range opened.

1104 (I) Secured from "Battle Stations, Torpedo", secured stern tubes and at

1134 (I) Surfaced, with target disappearing over the horizon, bearing 343° t,
and continued patrolling on course 168° t and pgc.

1200 (I) Position: Lat. 55-02.0 N; Long. 153-58.7 E.

1412 (I) Lookout reported periscope bearing 300° t, distant 1,500 yards. Took
evasive action and at 1419 (I) resumed base course. Contact - doubtful.

-25-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 257 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt
Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

28 May 1945:

Patrolling down coast of KAMCHATKA on 25-35 fathom line.

0110 (I) SJ radar contact bearing 106° t, 15,000 yards. Followed contact doc-
          trine, began tracking. Finally, at a range of 7,000 yards the ship
          was identified as Russian and similar to ALMA ATA, 3,611 tons, page
          29 AIC NORPAC #653. Course 270° t, speed 9-10 knots. Ship was prop-
          erly illuminated, but green-red-green lights were extremely hard to
          see. SC #6.

0200 (I) Steering course 000° t and pgc to open range, and head for area of
          lowest visibility until Russian ship passed over horizon.

0229 (I) Resumed base course 164° t and pgc, at standard speed on one main
          engine.

1036 (I) SJ contact on ARAIDO TO, bearing 157° t, 89,000 yards.

1200 (I) Position: Lat. 51-19.2 N; Long. 155-12.3 E.

1300 (I) Changed course to 215° t and pgc to patrol down west coast of PARAMU-
          SHIRU.

1330 (I) Made trim dive.

1355 (I) Surfaced on course 215° t and pgc.

1612 (I) Changed course to 205° t and pgc to close coast and patrol across
          ONEKOTAN KAIKYO.

1700 (I) Sighted possible smoke puffs at 170° t. Changed course to 190° t and
          pgc to close contact. Closed for 4 hours with no developments. Be-
          lieve smoke was on land, as nearest land and best visibility was on
          that bearing.

2100 (I) Changed course to 270° t and pgc, heading for KUNASHIRU TO.

2156 (I) Changed course to 049° t and pgc for patrol up coast toward ARAIDO TO
          for submerged patrol tomorrow in Third Kurile Strait (ARAIDO KAIKYO).

29 May 1945:

          Patrolling on 049° t and pgc toward ARAIDO TO. With sunrise at 0231
          and area never dark, hope to hold off diving until visibility is such
          that we can plainly see shore line of PARAMUSHIRU (KABUTSU WAN).
          Visibility variable from 4,000 to 15,000 yards.

0246 (I) Dove on course 050° t and pgc. Spread two cans of CO2 absorbent,
          regulated smoking lamp, and put all hands not on watch in their bunks
          with orders to stay there.

— page 259 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (33390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt

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

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

30 May 1945 (Cont'd):

after refit overhaul.
Flooded #7 MBT, and stood by to dive in case of necessity with all hy-
draulic machinery in "hand" except the stern planes. Our simulated
emergency drill of 26 May 1945 paid dividends here.

1240 (I) Valve repacked and main hydraulic plant back in commission.

1600 (I) Changed course to 135° t and pgc.

1955 (I) Changed course to 000° t and pgc, heading for ONIKOTAN KAIKYO where we
will patrol submerged tomorrow.

2243 (I) Changed course to 084° t and pgc.

31 May 1945:

0010 (I) Changed course to 090° t and pgc for approach to ONIKOTAN KAIKYO where
we will patrol submerged today.

0200 (I) Changed speed to standard on 2 mains during morning twilight.

0254 (I) Dove. Spread 2 cans of CO₂ absorbent, put out smoking lamp and ordered
all men not on watch to their bunks.

1011 (I) Heard 4 distant explosions in rapid succession.

1130 (I) Pulled .8" vacuum and bled in fresh air to .1" pressure. CO₂ content
1.0%.

1200 (I) Position: Lat. 50-03.2 N; Long. 154-34.0 E.

1233 (I) CO₂ content 1.4%.

31 May 1945:

1700 (I) Spread 2 cans of CO₂ absorbent. Bled 800# of oxygen into boat.

1800 (I) Bled in 800# more oxygen.

1917 (I) Changed course to 315° t and pgc. to get squared away for passage of
ONIKOTAN KAIKYO. Air conditions after 16 hours - 23 minutes, excellent
despite slight labored breathing.
Surfaced.

1947 (I) Changed course to 120° t and pgc heading for ONIKOTAN KAIKYO. Visibil-
ity during transit decreased to 400 yards. Stopped on 120° t and pgc

— page 260 —
U.S.S. ILIICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

CONFIDENTIAL

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

B. NARRATIVE (Cont'd):

31 May 1945 (Cont'd):
and made full on 3 engines.
2230 (I) Passage completed.
2350 (I) Changed course to 090° t and pgc, skirting mined area surrounding
PARUMUSHIRO KAIKYO, and 1st and 2nd Kurile Straits.

1 June 1945:
Skirting mined area for sweep cast of field and off entrance to 1st
and 2nd Kurile Straits.
0434 (I) Changed course to 000° t and pgc on DR.I.
1000 (I) Changed course to 180° t and pgc on DR.I.
1200 (I) Position: Lat. 50-07.5 N; Long. 156-51.0 E.
1327 (I) Made trim dive.
1355 (I) Surfaced, continuing surface patrol.
1613 (I) Changed course to 280° t and pgc, heading for ONEKOTAN KAIKYO.
1917 (I) Land contact by SJ on PARUMUSHIRU.
2116 (I) Changed course to 035° t and pgc to patrol eastern entrance of ONEKOTAN
KAIKYO.
2337 (I) Changed course to 215° t and pgc.

2 June 1945:
Patrolling across ONEKOTAN KAIKYO down island chain for surface patrol
as long as visibility permits.
0810 (I) Dove for submerged patrol. Spread 30# of CO2 absorbent.
0912 (I) Changed course to 300° t and pgc.
1100 (I) Pulled vacuum and replenished air.
1200 (I) Position: Lat. 50-02.5 N; Long. 156-51.0 E.
1604 (I) Changed course to 080° t and pgc.

-29-

ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 261 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

CONFIDENTIAL Lt

Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.
B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):

2 June 1945 (Cont'd):
1630 (I) Pulled vacuum and replenished air. CO₂ content 1.5%.
1930 (I) Surfaced and commenced surface patrol down east coast of island chain
toward MATSUWA TO. Staying 8-10 miles off beach on course 215°t and pgc.

The total lack of APR interference since our arrival in the norther
Kurile Area is unexplainable.

3 June 1945:
Patrolling southwestward off coast of SHASUKOTAN TO, toward south
boundary of area.
0215 (I) Changed course to 180° t and pgc.
0500 (I) Changed course to 274° t and pgc closing island chain during decreas-
ing visibility.
0902 (I) Received ComSubsPac's serial 45.
0935 (I) Made trim dive.
1025 (I) Surfaced on course 226° t and pgc.
1100 (I) Changed course to 043° t and pgc having reached southern boundary of
our area.
1200 (I) Position: Lat. 47-08.9 N; Long. 153-44.0 E.
1245 (I) Changed course to 228° t and pgc.
1341 (I) Investigated object which looked like a life raft. Object was a dead
walrus about fourteen feet long.
1425 (I) Changed course to 135° t and pgc and began opening from beach.
2100 (I) Changed zone description to (-) 10.
2245 (K) Started sending PLAICE'S second. Drowned out by Jap interference.

4 June 1945:
0045 (K) Received "R" from NPM for our second.
Changed course to 180° t and pgc, making standard on 3 engines.
0245 (K) Changed course to 135° t and pgc.
1200 (K) Position: Lat. 42-17.0 N; Long. 157-07.0 E.
1415 (K) Departed Polar Circuit. Time on station 32 days. Miles steamed in
area 7,148.2 which is believed to be an all time high.
-30
ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 262 —
CONFIDENTIAL
                                                                U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.
                                                                                                Lt
Subject:        Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

— page 263 —
Lt

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

— page 264 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt.
Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

— page 265 —
CONFIDENTIAL:
                                                                U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.
L
Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

                B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D):
11 June 1945:
                Enroute Sub Base, P.H.T.H. in company with PIPER (S.C.P.A.) and JALLAO
                on course 108° t and pgc.

1033 (K)        Made quick dive, and at

1050 (K)        Surfaced.

1200 (K)        Position: Lat. 22-03.00 N; Long. 168-23.00 W.

1300 (K)        Conducted tracking drill with PIPER until

1401 (K)        Secured tracking drill.

12 June 1945:
                Enroute Sub Base, P.H.T.H. in company with PIPER (S.C.P.A.) and JALLAO
                on course 108° t and pgc.

0200 (K)        Set all ship's clocks ahead one hour to Z.D. (/) 10 (W).

0600 (W)        Changed course to 088° t and pgc.

1200 (W)        Position: Lat. 20-57.00 N; Long. 162-51.00 W.

1539 (W)        Made quick dive, and at

1555 (W)        Surfaced.

2100 (W)        Changed course to 086° t and pgc.

13 June 1945:
                Enroute Sub Base, P.H.T.H. in company with PIPER (S.C.P.A.) and JALLAO
                on course 086° t and pgc.

0400 (W)        Set all ship's clocks ahead one-half hour to Z.D. (/) 9.5 (V-W).

(W-V)           Moored at Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

                                -34-
                                                                ENCLOSURE (A)

— page 266 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

— page 267 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt

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

— page 268 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
                                                                Contact 068°, 5900 yds.
                                                                course 225° 6 kts. 0240/13

Attack #2
Damaged by 4".

Attack #1. Sunk
0330 by 40 MM.

Opened fire 0315.

Crew removed by lugger 0400.

Attack #5. Finished off and
completely riddled. Abandoned
and sinking 0515. Low in water,
rapidly sinking 0615.

                                                                Attack #4. Damaged 0345
                                                                Attacked by all guns. Left
                                                                riddled and rapidly sinking 0425.
                                                                Disappeared 0445.

                                                                Attack #3. Damaged 0345 by all
                                                                guns. Set on fire 0350.
                                                                Exploded 0534.

                                                                WIND & SEA

                                                                Attack #6. Riddled and strafed.
                                                                Heavily damaged 0535, 0545.

                                                                These two got away.
                                                                UTASUTSU WAN

Attack #7. Riddled
& strafed 0535-0540.
Left dead in water.

N

NAIBO WAN
ETOROFU JIMA

U.S.S. PLAICE
VS.
8 JAP SMALL CRAFT

BATTLE SURFACE
4 SUNK
2 DAMAGED

MAY 13, 1945

                                                                ENCLOSURE (A)
                                                -37-

— page 269 —
Confidential
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
It

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

— page 270 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
1t

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

— page 271 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

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

— page 272 —
CONFIDENTIAL
                                                                U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.
                                                                                                Lt
Subject:        Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

— page 273 —
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care' of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

CONFIDENTIAL

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

— page 274 —
CONFIDENTIAL
Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt.

I. MINES:
No mines were sighted.

J. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS:
No A/S tactics were observed other than the usual aircraft contacts.

Noticed that all small targets (500 tons or less) steamed in column in group
of five or less. Those ships in column were secured by a towing hawser from bow
and stern to ship ahead and aft. If more than one group was in column, leaders of
group astern overlapped the trailing ship of group ahead, etc. This prevented any
break through by a surface ship, and tended to hold all ships together and in col-
umn, breakdown regardless. This may also have been a precaution to keep ships from
straying out of column while in a fog. As it is believed these ships supply MATSU-
SHIRU, ONEKOTAN as well as all Islands, their journey from the sighted staging
base in NEMURO KAIKYO to the Northern Kuriles is a long one, and one fraught with
navigational dangers, especially in a fog. The column and group leaders may possi-
bly be radar equipped or at least have seasoned navigators.

K. MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGES:

On 5 May 1945, at 0240, the battery charge was secured and an attempt was made
to carry a zero float with the auxiliary engine. Upon starting, the engine emitted
large volumes of black smoke and was immediately secured. Having had the same charac-
teristics last patrol when the elastic coupling was broken, the timing was the
first thing checked. The crankshaft and the camshaft were found to be approximately
70° out of time, which confirmed the suspicion that the elastic coupling had sheared.

The suspicioned cause of this failure has been traced to the reverse current
relay for the auxiliary generator, located on the after auxiliary power distribu-
tion board in the maneuvering room. The best examination possible without securing
the board and auxiliary power indicates that a burnt out coil exists in the sole-
noid. The faulty operation of the relay would cause the auxiliary generator to
become motorized thereby stripping the elastic coupling.

The coupling was renewed during the last refit and with the exception of full
power test runs, the greatest load on the generator was 156 kw.

The total hours on this engine at time of casualty were 1593 hrs. 09 mins; 20
hrs. 9 mins. since last refit.
* * * *

During the loading period prior to leaving MIDWAY for patrol, a composite cable
from the tender became entangled in the port screw while shifting position alongside
the tender to load torpedoes. An attempt was made by divers to extricate the cable, but
was unsuccessful. The boat was drydocked and the cable removed. A check was made
on strut bearing clearances and they were found normal.

-43-

ENCLOSURE (..)

— page 275 —
CONFIDENTI.L
                                                                U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390),
                                                                Care of Fleet Post Office,
                                                                San Francisco, California.
LL
Subject:        Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

— page 279 —
CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. ILAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Lt
Subject: Report of Fifth War Patrol - U.S.S. ILAICE.

N. SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS (CONT'D):

The JI listening gear was very effective at long ranges, detecting light fast
screws at ranges of 5 to 7 miles and heavy screws out to 10 miles. However, it was
very difficult to get accurate bearings with the JI listening gear when the ships
were close at hand. The JI also proved useful to monitor the noises issuing from
the ship, especially during speed tests made to determine the sounds emitted by a
squeaking port shaft.

The QB and JK sound gear functioned normally, detecting heavy screws at ranges
of about 7 miles.

O. DENSITY LAYERS:

No prominent density layers were encountered in the patrol area. Dives were
made to depths of 300 feet, with changes in water temperature of only 2 or 3 degrees.
Conditions were generally isothermal.

P. HEALTH, FOOD AND HABITABILITY:

The health of the crew was excellent. Operating in a cold climate, average
temperature of 34° F., eliminated the generally encountered cases of fungus, heat
rash, etc., but reciprocated with a number of minor colds throughout the ship.
[UNCLEAR: Some] (50) colds were reported in all, but resulted in no sick days.

The following minor accidents or sicknesses were encountered:
    1 contusion left leg           1 sick day
    1 lacerated finger             1 sick day
    1 catarrhal fever, acute       3 sick days
    10 constipation                0 sick days
    1 D.U. appendicitis            2 sick days

The food, cooking and baking was excellent, ample, and plentifully served.
Practically all hands agreed that it was the best submarine food they had experien-
ced. Too much credit cannot be given the cooks and baker for their excellent ef-
forts.

The ship was cool throughout the patrol. Heaters were allowed and thus elim-
inated any excessive coldness below decks. Every effort was made to run the air
conditioning units in order to prevent excessive moisture, but a satisfactory ad-
justment could not be found. The plants were run part time submerged and helped
to eliminate excessive moisture. Any attempt to run them on the surface resulted
in prompt freezing up, especially in the forward battery. Despite this, the boat
was at no time excessively wet. A complete report on the air conditioning plants
is being made and will be given the Squadron Engineer upon arrival in port for
[UNCLEAR: study].

Operating as we were, springtime in northern waters, our dives were generally
short or longer. The first dive lasted longer than expected and found us with

-48-
ENCLOSURE (1)

— page 282 —
CONFIDENTIAL

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

U.S.S. ILAICE (SS390),
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.

1.

II. RADIO COUNTERMEASURES:

The enemy jammed all the primary and secondary ship-shore frequencies, making
transmission on these frequencies very difficult. On May 15, in latitude 45-33 N
and longitude 144-22 E, the first attempts to transmit a message on all ship-shore
frequencies were completely blocked. The enemy was using a keyed C-W transmission
simultaneously on both primary and secondary frequencies. Later in
the day a reply was received from NPN on 8470 kcs, and by slightly decreasing the
power, the jamming was eliminated and the transmission was suc-
cessful.

On May 3, in latitude 45-21 N and longitude 154-43 E, the first attempt
to transmit was completely blocked by a continuous wave keyed transmission which
was transmitting immediately after the call-up on 8470 kcs. The receiver was
shifted to 309 kcs, the alternate frequency, and the same signal was found, appar-
ently keyed simultaneously. The transmitter was returned to the message was
shifted slightly from 8470 kcs, and the message was completed successfully to NPN.
Then it was obvious that the message was getting through, the enemy ceased his jam-
ming and registered over a clear circuit. Evidently the enemy stands a watch on
our ship-shore frequencies and begins his countermeasures as soon as a boat opens
up.

III. REMARKS:

The PLAICE returns to Pearl Harbor for refit after having last refitted at Guam
and Midway respectively, and is anticipating receiving the new aircraft search radar,
the shreader, TDM and such other additional equipment as may be allotted her.

An official photographer was assigned to the PLAICE for this patrol. Unfor-
tunately, a complete lack of suitable torpedo targets prevented his taking any
pictures of action, although he was given a chance to "shoot" the crew in action during
the battle on the 13th of May. Low and unfavorable visibility pre-
vented his getting many "shots" of the periodically visible high, snow-capped,
volcanic peaks of the northern Kuriles.

A report on said about winter clothing. The clothing issued for this last
patrol showed a great deal of improvement and can be said to be adequate in almost
all respects. The cotton army comfortors were excellent and provided sufficient
warmth. Parkas and rain pants worn with the high rubber boots,
helmets and scarfs were satisfactory. Jungle cloth and canvas
gloves were deeply appreciated. Face masks were an absolute require-
ment to combat the ever present biting wind, and periodic snow and sleet
made the "five-fingered" leather mittens could stand replacement. It is sug-
gested that the "one-fingered" leather mittens, wool-lined with an additional layer of
light and pliable rubber between the wool and outside leather covering be manufac-
tured and tested. Despite ample and frequent applications of "Neatsfoot" and water-
proofing, all gloves eventually became damp and uncomfortable.

-51-

— page 284 —
COMMANDER SUBMARINE DIVISION ONE EIGHTY-TWO

File: FB5-182/A16-3                               c/o Fleet Post Office
                                                 San Francisco, California.
Serial: (020)                                    13 June, 1945.

C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
Fifth War Patrol.

From:     Commander Submarine Division ONE EIGHTY-TWO.
To :      Commander-in-Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN.
      (2) Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET, administration.
      (3) Commander-in-Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET.

Subject:  U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

          1. The fifth patrol of the PLAICE was conducted in the Kurile
Island area. Although area coverage was excellent, no targets worthy of
torpedoes were encountered. Two gun actions were conducted against enemy
sea trucks and luggers.

          2. Gun action #1 on 13 May, 1945 was an attack on a group of
four sea trucks and four smaller luggers. Contact was first made by SJ
radar at night and the enemy was attacked at dawn at an opening range of
3400 yards. All four sea trucks and two luggers were sunk by 4" gun fire
and automatic weapons. The remaining two luggers were chased toward the
beach and damaged by 20MM and small arms fire, all 4" and 40 MM ammuni-
tion having been expended on the first six ships. Action was broken off
because of proximity to shore batteries and shortage of ammunition. Enemy
return fire during this action was ineffective.

          3. Gun action #2 on 18 May was an attack on seven fishing boats
averaging 250 tons each. Fire was opened at 2600 yards with 20MM, range
was closed and targets taken under fire with .50 cal. Two of the enemy
ships showed signs of damage. Both .50 cal guns and the 20MM jammed at
this time and the enemy got in his inning with automatic weapons. Several
hits in superstructure were sustained but no damage to personnel or to the
pressure hull was suffered. The PLAICE was forced to break off action and
retire to sea ward.

          4. Only four other contacts were made; three of these were with
properly marked Russian Merchant ships and the fourth was with a fleet of
fish boats which could not be engaged because of a lack of ammunition. All
attacks made encountered were too small for torpedo attacks. One of the
fleeing enemy fire on the PLAICE when she surfaced 6000 yards away but a
quick dive prevented any damage.

                                   -1-

— page 285 —
FB5-182/A16-3
(020)
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Fifth War Patrol
Report of - dated 13 May, 1945.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.
(Page 2).

5. The PLAICE returned from patrol in good condition.
A three week refit will be conducted by U.S.S. HOLLAND with a
Division 182 Relief Crew. The cleanliness of the ship is exceptional,
reflecting a high state of morale and discipline.

6. The patrol report contains a wealth of information regarding
enemy installations in this area, and regarding submarine operating proce-
dure and submarine clothing for cold weather patrols. Few planes were en-
countered in the area. One of those dropped two bombs on the PLAICE as it
was diving; no damage was sustained.

7. The Administrative Division Commander congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers and crew on the completion of a cold, arduous
patrol and upon the damage inflicted on the enemy.

[HANDWRITTEN: S. J. L. C.]
[HANDWRITTEN: C.C. [UNCLEAR: [illegible name]]]

— page 286 —
FC5-18/A16-3
Serial: 0315
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS PLAICE - Report of
FIFTH War Patrol.

From:
To:
Via:

Subject:

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

2. The Squadron Commander concurs in the decision not
to battle surface on the fishing vessels on 17 May 1945, but be-
lieves that reason (7) is not sound.

3. The recommendation for cross-connection between the
lubricating oil heater and the engines (last item, section K) is
concurred in.

4. The excellent routine for days' work and training
of unqualified men and officers is noted. The state of cleanli-
ness of the PLAICE upon return from patrol indicates much work
by ship's force.

5. The remarks of the commanding officer on winter
clothing are authoritative. For this reason, particular attention
is invited to the remarks on mittens in section (V).

6. The Squadron Commander congratulates the commanding
officer, officers and crew on an aggressive and well conducted
patrol and on the damage to the enemy.

SUBMARINE SQUADRON EIGHTEEN.
Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, Cal.
14 June 1945.
00/rg

Commander Submarine Squadron EIGHTEEN.
Commander-in-Chief, U. S. PACIFIC FLEET.
(1) Commander Submarine Force, PACIFIC FLEET.
Administration.
(2) Commander-in-Chief, U. S. PACIFIC FLEET.

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of FIFTH War Patrol.

[SIGNATURE: Stanley P. Moseley]
STANLEY P. MOSELEY.

— page 287 —
F12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial 01546
CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
Fifth War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 790
U.S.S. PLAICE - FIFTH WAR PATROL.

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

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of Fifth War Patrol
(26 April to 13 June 1945).

1. The fifth war patrol of the PLAICE, under the command of Commander
R. S. Andrews, U. S. Navy, was conducted in the Kurile Islands-Okhotsk Sea area.
The PLAICE formed a coordinated attack group along with the U.S.S. PIPER, U.S.S.
POMFRET, U.S.S. SEA POACHER and U.S.S. SHERIDAN, with the commanding officer of the
PIPER as task group commander.

2. Area coverage throughout this patrol was excellent. The
aggressively fought patrol resulted in the sinking of four sea trucks and
in the damaging of three luggers. The practice of the enemy of mooring small
luggers and sea trucks together bow and stern is noted with interest. A new type
mitten for use in cold weather is under development and should eliminate the
unsatisfactory features of the presently issued type.

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

4. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, congratulates the
commanding officer, officers, and crew of the PLAICE upon the completion of this
aggressive, arduous patrol conducted under conditions of poor visibility and in
cold waters of the Kurile Islands. The PLAICE is credited with inflicting the
following damage to the enemy:

S U N K
1 - Sea Truck (EC) - 300 tons (Gun Attack No. 1)
1 - Sea Truck (Similar to SENYO MARU No. 5) (EC) - 370 tons (Gun Attack No. 3)
1 - Sea Truck (EC) - 300 tons (Gun Attack No. 4)
1 - Sea Truck (EC) - 300 tons (Gun Attack No. 5)
TOTAL SUNK - 1,270 tons

- 1 -
SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET.
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
22 June 1945.

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

— page 288 —
FF12-10(A)/A16-3(18)
Serial 01546

SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
23 June 1945.

NOTE: THIS REPORT WILL BE
FORWARDED ONLY TO
PACIFIC PATROL AREA.

THIRD ENDORSEMENT to
PLAICE Report of
Fifth War Patrol.

COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 790
U.S.S. PLAICE - FIFTH WAR PATROL.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of Fifth War Patrol
(26 April to 13 June 1945).

D A M A G E D
1 - Wooden Lugger (EC) - 100 tons (Gun Attack No. 6)
1 - Wooden Lugger (EC) - 100 tons (Gun Attack No. 7)
1 - Wooden Lugger (EC) - 100 tons (Gun Attack No. 8)

TOTAL DAMAGED - 300 tons

TOTAL SUNK & DAMAGED - 1,570 tons

MERRILL COMSTOCK.

DISTRIBUTION:
(Complete Reports)
Cominch (7)
CNO (5)
Cincpac (6)
JICPOA (1)
AdICPOA (1)
Conservpac (1)
Cincslant (1)
Comsubslant (8)
S/M School, NL (2)
CO, S/M Base, PH (1)
Comsopac (2)
Comsovepac (1)
Comsub7thFlt (Fwd Echelon) (2)
Comsub7thFlt (Rear Echelon) (2)
Comsubpac (2)
ComsubpacldComd (40)
SUBAD, NI (2)
ComsubspacSubordcom (3)

All Squadron and Div. (2)
Commanders, Pacific (5)
CSS 2 (A cmatl) (2)
Substrainpac (1)
All Submarines, Pacific (1)

[SIGNATURE: W. S. Langley]
W. S. LANGLEY,
Asst. Flag Secretary.

— page 289 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1st Copy]

SS390/A16-3
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

Serial 073
DECLASSIFIED
[UNCLEAR: CONFIDENTIAL]

Ga

24 August 1945

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390).
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Submarine Division 242.
(2) Commander Submarine Squadron 24.
(3) Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
(4) Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet.

Subject: U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390) - Report of War Patrol Number Six.

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

1. Enclosures (A) and (B) covering the sixth war patrol of this
vessel, conducted in the East China Sea area during the period 18 July to
24 August 1945, is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: (illegible)]
R. S. ANDREWS.

DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 6/1/72]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

[HANDWRITTEN: 139674]

— page 290 —
CONFIDENTIAL

U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390).
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California

Subject: Report of Sixth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

A. PROLOGUE

Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, 13 June 1945 after fifth
war patrol, and was assigned to Submarine Division ONE HUNDRED
EIGHTY-TWO (U.S.S. EURYALE) for normal refit, during which the
following major items were accomplished:

1. Installation of JP-JT sound gear with NLM.
2. Installation of TDM.
3. Installation of Directional APR with H.F. receiver.
4. Installation of SD-5 radar.
5. Installation of snubber on Roots blower (10 #).
6. Installation of 2nd Mare Island type DRT in control room.
7. Installation of new trim manifold.
8. Installation of lower hatches in aft battery, after
   engine room, and after torpedo room.
9. Installation of ST radar.
10. Installation of 5"/25 cal. gun and forward 40 mm mount.
11. Installation of RBS receiver.

The following officers were detached:

Lieutenant William R. Werner, USN, Executive Officer.
Lieutenant W. O. Hudson, II, DE, USNR, Eng. and Diving Officer.
Ensign D. E. Brand, E-L, USNR, Assistant Torpedo Officer.
Torpedoman A. D. Reed, USN (Appointed 15 June 1945)

The following officers reported for duty:

Lieutenant Charles W. Lynn, Jr., USN, Executive Officer.
Lieutenant (jg) L. E. Spangler, DE(L), USNR Torpedo and Gunner
                                                              Officer.
Ensign O. J. Bryant, USN, Assistant Torpedo and Gunnery
                                                              Officer.

Upon completion of refit, the ship was given eight (8) days
training with Captain Creed C. Burlingame, U.S. Navy, Commander
Submarine Division 182, as Training Officer. During this period
4 Mk XXVII, 3 Mk XXVIII, and 4 Mk XIV torpedoes were fired; three
daytime battle surfaces; one night's lifeguard exercise; one
night's training in wolf pack tactics; and one day's special
training with TDM and NAE were held.

Readiness for sea date was 18 July 1945, on which day the ship
departed for patrol via Saipan as T.U. 17.3.46.

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                                                               U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
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                                                               San Francisco, California

Subject: Report of Sixth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

          B.          NARRATIVE (CONT'D)

8 August 1945 (Cont'd):

0922 (I)          Surfaced.

1000 (I)          On station, dove for training.

1055 (I)          Surfaced and circled on station.

1120 (I)          SD contact at 12 miles, closed to 9 and faded in and out periodically;
                  Sighted PB4Y circling. At time of sighting--no V.H.F. or I.F.F.
                  Later at 1240 (I) Playmate 72 came in on V.H.F. and asked for
                  bearing. Poached him in on true bearings by V.H.F. Sighted strike
                  planes returning to base.

1200 (I) (..) Position: Lat. 30-37 N; Long. 134-59 E.

1240 (I)          Our cover, Playmate 72, finally opened up on V.H.F. and asked us
                  where we were and if we could see him. Answered "Affirmative" and
                  led him in.

1250 (I)          Escort said he had to leave for base after covering us for ten (10)
                  minutes. He had no information on strike, its progress, or "wet
                  chickens."

1300 (I)          Escort departed. Tough going.

1415 (I)          Received CSP's 080357 and headed for night lifeguard station.

1420 (I)          Dove for training.

1454 (I)          Surfaced.

1504 (I)          Sighted B-24, who not only stayed clear, but used his I.F.F. and
                  actually called us on V.H.F. FIRST SUCCESS.

2100 (I)          Circling on station.

2135 (I)          SD contact 15 miles, closing and using I.F.F. Lost contact on SD
                  at 7 miles and suddenly established sight contact directly overhead,
                  altitude 1,000 feet. Established preliminary communications with
                  our cover, Playmate 73.

2204 (I) (..) APR contact 150/350/7.
                  Strike aircraft overhead enroute target.

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Subject: Report of Sixth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D)

10 August 1945 (Cont'd):

1214 (I) SD contact, no I.F.F. or V.H.F. at 8 miles, and closing.

1216 (I) Dove when contact closed to 3 miles.

1315 (I) Surfaced.

1422 (I) Sighted PB4Y, changed course to 000° (t).

1530 (I) Tried to send PLAICE Second to Okinawa offering services for
lifeguard duty tomorrow. Could not raise Okinawa. Three other
stations were likewise trying to call him. Asked Iwo to take
our message and retransmit it, but they refused it.

1610 (I) Sighted what appeared to be a raft with two objects in it waving
their arms. Periscope watch assured bridge there was life there,
and one lookout reported he could see an object waving a white
shirt. Stood by with man overboard party to rescue our first
"zoomies." Shades of disappointment! Our raft turned out to be
an auxiliary gas tank; our reported life was two black "Gooney"
birds with white underwings. They waved cheerfully as we passed
by.

1936 (I) APR contact, 76/500/25.

1940 (I) APR contact, 176/170/10 (friendly BN).

Sent PLAICE Second to Okinawa offering services for tomorrow's
strike. Receipted for but never answered.

2032 (I) Sighted searchlight beam from Nagasaki.

2122 (I) SD radar contacts, 1, 2 1/2, 5 and 17 miles. One plane showing
I.F.F. One brave soul scared us to death by passing close aboard,
distant 300 yards. Will they never learn?

2245 (I) SD contact 20 miles, using I.F.F.

2306 (I) SD contact 8 miles, using I.F.F.

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B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D)
11 August 1945 (Cont'd):

0945 (I) Six F6F passed overhead taking no note of proceedings below.
0949 (I) Destroyed boat by setting on fire and holing with 40 mm shells.
          Boat exploded a short time later.
1000 (I) Began trying to raise NPN and Okinawa giving them data on rescue.
          NPN was busy and Okinawa would not answer up.
1200 (I) Position: Lat. 31-40 N; Long. 128-07 E.
1228 (I) Sight contact on two friendly aircraft. Both used I.F.F. and V.H.F.
          Finally relayed message to Okinawa via V.H.F. to PB4Y. Will try
          NPN later.
1234 (I) Began circling at rendezvous point for rescue plane.
1255 (I) Sighted two land based aircraft, using I.F.F.
1525 (I) Sighted unidentified plane, no I.F.F. or V.H.F. at 8 miles and
          closing.
1532 (I) Dove when plane closed to 6 miles and disappeared in clouds on
          starboard beam.
1709 (I) Surfaced.
1915 (I) Exercised "ready gun crews."
2150 (I) Sighted red flare bearing 140° (t). Changed course to 140° (t) and
          went ahead full on three engines. Alerted 500 kcs. watch for any
          signal thereon.
2153 (I) SD radar contact, friendly, 10 miles.
2158 (I) Fired one green flare. Heard Jap code groups on 500 kcs.
          Brought DU loop to bridge, but could obtain no definite bearing.
2230 (I) Fired second green flare.
2240 (I) SD radar contact 12 miles, no I.F.F. or V.H.F.
2241 (I) Secured DU loop and struck below.

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CONFIDENTIAL
U.S.S. PLAICE (SS390)
Care of Fleet Post Office
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Ga.

Subject: Report of Sixth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

B. NARRATIVE (CONT'D)
13 August 1945 (cont'd):

1117 (I) Sighted mine, type 93, Mod. 4, Lat. 32-16 N; Long. 128-08 E. Sank
         by B.A.R. fire. Contact #2.

1131 (I) Sighted two PB4Y's 8 miles.

1200 (I) Position: Lat. 32-14.8 N; Long. 127-54.8 E.
         Sighted unidentified fighter plane, closing, no I.F.F. or V.H.F.
         Dove.

1245 (I) Surfaced.

1308 (I) SD and sight contact on PBY 11 miles.

1351 (I) On station for strike. Two B-25's arrived as air cover.

1430 (I) Sighted mine, type 93, Mod. 4, Lat. 32-19 N; Long. 127-56 E.
         Exploded by B.A.R. fire. Contact #3.

1530 (I) Friendly planes, passing overhead enroute base. Not using I.F.F.
         and would not answer V.H.F.

1806 (I) Sighted mine, type 93, Mod. 1, Lat. 32-08 N; Long. 128-40 E.
         Exploded by B.A.R. Contact #4.

1823 (I) Sighted mine, type 93, Mod. 1, Lat. 32-31 N; Long. 128-01 E. Sank
         by B.A.R. Contact #5.

1854 (I) Sighted mine, type 93, Mod. 4, Lat. 32-30 N; Long. 128-05.5 E.
         Exploded by B.A.R. Contact #6. Needless to say, sighting six mines
         in our area in eleven hours and the force and size of the explosions
         made a most profound impression on all hands, especially the lookout.

2000 (I) Patrolling on station on one half and one hour logs, using a
         constant helm. Believe present speed of 2/3 on one engine (10 knots)
         is best for TDM reception and will give us a sufficient bow wave to
         push mines aside, except any we meet eye to eye. Have put forward
         battery door on the latch for night patrolling just in case.
         Receiving usual APR interference.

2116 (I) Possible TDM contact. Avoided.

2244 (I) SD contact 13 miles, out at 14. No I.F.F.

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Subject:        Report of Sixth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

K.              MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE (CONT'D)

Engineering (Cont'd):

        7.      The flexible drive on No. 1 fuel oil purifier was found to be mis-
aligned, and had to be realigned. On both Nos. 1 and 2 fuel oil purifiers, the dra
bushing and bowl boss sleeve were found to be scored and had to be replaced.

        8.      The four studs holding the bell crank linkage to the outboard exhaust
valve on No. 1 main engine corroded away breaking the linkage, thus making the valve
inoperative. These studs were replaced and operation was satisfactory. It was
noticed that the bronze seat is badly corroded and will have to be resurfaced during
overhaul.

Electrical:

        1.      On August 10 the master gyro compass was put out of commission. The
south rotor had lost its vacuum and the north south balance was found to be loose.
The sensitive element was removed and new seal rings were installed. The element was
then baked. The element now held its vacuum but still had to be balanced. After
all the preliminary steps had been taken, the east west bubble was found to read
zero. Consequently, it was not touched. Continuous attempts to set the north south
balance were unsuccessful and a constant error could not be attained. The gyro
would have a variable error from 1 degree east to 1 degree west. This was the
closest balance of the element that could be obtained for any period of time.

        2.      The oil seal rings on the forward bearing on No. 2 main motor leaked
and had to be replaced while at Saipan Island.

        3.      On August 11, while making flank speed, the solder connection of
the lug on the lead to the starboard main motors rheostat melted out. It was
resoldered, and subsequent running at flank speed showed normal operation.

        4.      One brush on No. 1 main motor was replaced when it was found to
have a broken pig-tail. While enroute Midway Island from patrol area the brush
rivets on the starboard motors worked loose.

        5.      A thorough check shows that there are eight slightly cracked cell
tops in the after battery. In the forward battery one of the ventilation ducts
leaks and will have to be replaced.

        6.      Due to heavy weather, the compressor motor and starting panel on
No. 2 Kleinschmidt still were grounded out. The starting panel was dried out.
The motor had to be rebuilt and a new interpole field coil installed at
Saipan Island.

                                                                ENCLOSURE (A)
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Subject:        Report of Sixth War Patrol - U.S.S. PLAICE.

L.              RADIO (CONT'D)

                Lifeguard communications in the Texas League were confused. About half
the time lone planes would not open up and identify themselves on the V.H.F.
Those who did were not all familiar with the general calls to be used. None
of the 5 survivors taken aboard from a downed B-25 had ever heard of the calls
"ROOTBEER" and "WILDBEAST". (Calls meaning any/all aircraft and any/all subs
respectively.) Difficulty was always encountered in trying to raise Radio
Okinawa on the ASR frequencies. (7945, and 3310 kc.) After contacting Okinawa,
it was quite a feat to complete a transmission successfully. Iwo Jima, much
further away, was easily contacted, but they would refuse a message to Okinawa
since they were seldom in communication with that station. Continuous
Japanese interference added to the difficulties of the circuit.

                The following will serve to illustrate the problems encountered. On
the night of August 10th, Okinawa was called several times with no result.
Iwo Jima answered and also called Okinawa. After about five more calls,
Okinawa answered, gave strength five, and message was sent and authenticated.
After some difficulty over group counts, Okinawa receipted without an authenti-
cator. On being asked for an authenticator, they sent a wait signal. After
five minutes Okinawa was again called and asked for authenticator. They sent
a signal requesting for check on message authenticator, and received a signal
telling them that the authenticator was correct. After 20 more minutes on
the circuit, the message was receipted for and the receipt correctly
authenticated. Total transmission time, 1 1/2 hours for a 98 group message.
Japanese interference was fairly heavy on the circuit.

                Communication with NPM and NPN was difficult because of Japanese inter-
ference on the 4235 kc series of frequencies. Altogether, 9 messages were
transmitted in the area and trouble was experienced in getting through each
time but one. (See paragraph "U".)

                Reception of fox skeds in the area was good on 9090 kc.

Last serial sent    7
Last serials received 60        and         Y
Serials missed      None

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