U.S.S. BLENNY (SS-324) — war patrol report SS-324_BLENNY_Part1.pdf

— page 1 —
START OF REEL
JOB NO. [HANDWRITTEN: E-108]
[HANDWRITTEN: AR-2-78]
[HANDWRITTEN: 55. Blenny (55324)]

1.0
1.1
1.25

   3.0  2.8  2.5
   3.2       2.2
   3.6       2.0
   4.0       1.8

1.4
1.6

OPERATOR [SIGNATURE: R. Munch]
DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 1-12-78]

THIS MICROFILM IS
THE PROPERTY OF
THE UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT

[SEAL: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA]

MICROFILMED BY
NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON
MICROFILM SECTION

REEL TARGET, START & END
NAVEXOS 3968

— page 2 —
[HANDWRITTEN: BLENNY (SS-324)
WWII PATROL FILE
FOR DECK LOGS CONSULT NATIONAL ARCHIVES
WHICH HAS CUSTODY.
ALL MATERIAL ON THIS REEL IS DECLASSIFIED

J.A. KOONTZ]

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

HISTORY OF USS BLENNY (SS 324)

Built by the Electric Boat Company, Groton, Connecticut, USS
BLENNY's keel was laid on 8 July 1943. Nine months later, on 9 April
1944, the submarine slid down the greased ways sponsored by Miss
Florence B. King, daughter of Fleet Admiral Ernest J. King, USN, who
was then Commander in Chief of the United States Fleet and Chief of
Naval Operations.

BLENNY was commissioned on 27 July 1944 at the Submarine Base,
New London, Connecticut; Lieutenant Commander W. H. Hazzard, USN,
assumed command, a post he continued to fill until after the termina-
tion of the war against Japan.

After conducting preliminary training and contact torpedo firing
at New London and Newport, Rhode Island, BLENNY departed for Key West,
Florida, on 29 August 1944, arriving there on 5 September. After a
short training period at the sound school, she departed for Balboa,
Canal Zone, where she moored on 19 September. A short but intensive
training period ensued at Balboa, after which BLENNY set course for
Pearl Harbor on the 28th, reaching her destination on 15 October.
Further training was undergone at Pearl Harbor, after which she was
ready for her first war patrol.

On 10 November 1944, SS 324 stood out of Pearl Harbor on her
first cruise against the Japanese. Following a stop at Saipan for
fuel on the 22nd, the submarine steamed toward her assigned patrol
station, off the west coast of Luzon.

The first day on station, 1 December, she missed a torpedo shot
at an enemy escort and was subsequently thoroughly bombed. Just
after midnight on the 6th, BLENNY was narrowly missed by two bombs
dropped by a low-flying plane, but, fortunately, sustained no damage.

On 14 December a 300-ton sea-truck was sunk by gun fire during
the morning and late in the evening a lone destroyer escort was sunk
by torpedo fire in a surface attack. The undersea raider made con-
tact with a 10,000-ton enemy transport, heavily laden with troops on
23 December and in the following attack she sent the enemy ship to
the bottom. Four days later the submarine severely damaged a Jap
freighter, and on the 31st she departed from this area for Fremantle,
Western Australia, for refit.

Arriving in Fremantle on 13 January 1945, BLENNY was awarded the
Submarine Combat Insignia for this 63-day patrol, during which she
sank three ships, totaling 11,100 tons, and damaged one 4,000-ton
vessel.

Refit completed, on 5 February 1945 BLENNY got underway from
Fremantle en route to her second war patrol off the coast of French
Indo-China. The submarine conducted an unsuccessful submerged attack
on a Jap convoy escorted by two destroyers on the 20th. Torpedoes
were fired from a position so close to one of the escorts that the
sub's "skipper," after firing, was able to watch a depth charge being
fired from its projector. The charge rose in the air until it

— page 4 —
- 2 - (USS BLENNY)

disappeared from the field of view of the periscope, almost directly
overhead and, needless to say, further observations were postponed.

Six days later, on 26 February, in a submerged moonlight attack,
BLENNY sank one and damaged two large tankers. She then returned to
Subic Bay for a torpedo reload, arriving there on 2 March. Reload
completed, two days later the sub returned to her assigned area, and
on the 20th BLENNY sank one large and two medium freighters in a sub-
merged attack.

After embarking two aviators from the submarine BLUEBACK on the
25th, she proceeded to Subic Bay for refit, ending the 51-day patrol
upon arrival there on 27 March. BLENNY was awarded the Submarine Com-
bat Insignia for this patrol during which she sank three ships total-
ing 25,500 tons and damaged two totaling 20,000 tons.

Refit completed, BLENNY departed Subic Bay on 16 April 1945, en
route to her third war patrol, which was conducted in two parts; the
first part was largely spent in lifeguard duty for U. S. Army aviators
with no targets being contacted.

The sub returned to Subic Bay for more fuel on 16 May and departe
two days later for the Java Sea. On 25 May BLENNY made contact with
a small submarine chaser which was anchored close to the beach in ex-
tremely shallow water off the north coast of Java. In order to con-
duct this night surface attack, the sub flooded down and backed toward
the beach, taking soundings from the stern with a lead line. In
position, she fired a spread of torpedoes which sank the ship almost
immediately. At the time of firing, the sub was in 25 feet of water
with her screws stirring up mud from the bottom.

Early in the morning of 30 May, the sub sank a small lugger by
gun fire and she used her torpedoes later in the day to sink a small
coastal steamer. On 5 June BLENNY set course for Fremantle where she
ended her 55-day patrol on 9 June. The submarine was awarded the
Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol, during which she sank
three enemy vessels totaling 790 tons.

With refit and training completed, BLENNY churned away from
Fremantle on 5 July 1945 to conduct her fourth war patrol in the Java
Sea and off the eastern coast of Malay. On the 11th the sub sank a
sea-truck by gunfire and on the 16th she sank a converted gunboat in
a torpedo attack. The undersea raider then chased a small vessel
which had been escorting the gunboat, but was unable to get close
enough to do much damage.

From this time until the end of the patrol many sampans, junks
and miscellaneous small craft were sunk after a preliminary investi-
gation in each case to determine that they were carrying contraband
and after seeing the crews safely clear. Several of these were sunk
by means of a 12-gauge shotgun, which was fired at the bottom from the
inside.

BLENNY recovered a boarding party which the sub USS COD had put
aboard a junk on the morning of 1 August; on the 3rd, COD had been
forced to abandon this party by an enemy plane which forced her down.
A dive bomber missed BLENNY with a small bomb while the sub was

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- 3 - (USS BLENNY)

surfaced on 7 August; he was not given a chance to rectify this mis-
take.

Departing her area on 11 August, BLENNY headed for Subic Bay,
where she ended her 41-day patrol on the 14th. The submarine was a-
warded the Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol, during which she
sank many small ships totaling 5,695 tons and damaged a 500-ton escort.

During her refit, the war with Japan ended and on 29 August the
submarine's refit was completed. On the 29th, Commander Hazzard was
relieved as commanding officer by Lieutenant Commander C. H. Fuller,
Jr., USN. On the 31st BLENNY stood out of Subic Bay en route to Guam
where she arrived on 5 September.

In mid-September the sub set sail for the West Coast via Pearl
Harbor, arriving at San Diego on 30 January 1946. Since the end of
the war BLENNY has been operating with the Pacific Fleet, ranging from
the United States to the Orient.

STATISTICS

SURFACE DISPLACEMENT 1,525 tons ARMAMENT One 5"/25 cali-
                                            ber gun and ten
LENGTH OVERALL 311 feet                    21" torpedo
                                            tubes.
SURFACE SPEED 20 knots

COMPLEMENT 85 officers and men

Restencilled November 1950

— page 6 —
SS324/A9
Serial 01
C-O- [STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

From: Commanding Officer, U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324).
To : Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Submarine Division SIXTY TWO.
(2) Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY SIX.
(3) Commander Task Force SEVENTY ONE.

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY, Report of War Patrol number ONE (1).

Enclosure: (A) Subject report.
(B) Three Track charts.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the first war patrol of this vessel con-
ducted in areas adjacent to and west of Northern Luzon during the period 10
November 1944 to 13 January 1945, is forwarded herewith.

[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

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

[SIGNATURE: W.H. Hazzard]
W.H. HAZZARD.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9e] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/24/72]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]
[STAMP: = 4 01702]

[HANDWRITTEN: 108483]

— page 7 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

W.H. HAZZARD, Commander
    U.S.S. S-37 4 patrols
    U.S.S. SAURY - 6 patrols

H.E. MILLER, Lieut-Comdr.
    U.S.S. S-15 - 1 Patrol
    U.S.S. KINGFISH - 5 Patrols

J.N. FELTON, Lieut-Comdr.
    U.S.S. S-17 - 3 Patrols

D.K. CALLOW, Lieutenant
    U.S.S. S-16 - 2 Patrols

C.R. KASKI, Lieutenant
    U.S.S. TARPON - 10 Patrols

J.K. Irvin, Lieutenant
    None

E.H. EDWARDS, Jr, Lieutenant
    None

D.R. STEVENS, Jr, Lieut.(jg)
    None

W.A. SPIES, Jr, Lieutenant (jg)
    None

ZARNOWSKI, Anthony             CTM
    U.S.S. SPEARFISH - 3 Patrols

STEAD, James L.               CQM
    U.S.S. GUNARD - 6 Patrols

WINE, Garnett L.              CRM
    U.S.S. S-46 - 5 Patrols

NASI, Andrew E.               CLM
    None

EDMONDSON, Joe H.             CMOMM
    U.S.S. PORPOISE - 3 Patrols
    U.S.S. PICKEREL - 3 Patrols

CRAYTON, Thomas E.            CMOMM
    None

BARNHART, Arthur S.           CEM
    U.S.S. S-32 - 8 Patrols

McGUIRE, Wilbur V.            CEM
    U.S.S. PETO - 4 Patrols

- 1A -
[STAMP: 4 01702]

— page 8 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

A) PROLOGUE.
U.S.S. BLENNY was commissioned 27 July 1944 at Submarine Base, New
London, Connecticut. During preliminary training fired 31 contract torpedoes at
Newport, Rhode Island, and 4 torpedo practice shots and all guns day and night
at New London, Connecticut. Upon completion of preliminary training departed New
London, Connecticut 29 August, 1944 and arrived Key West, Florida, 5 September 1944
to furnish services to Fleet Sound School and to fire experimental torpedoes. While
at Key West a major casualty occured to the stern plane hydraulic system which was
repaired under the supervision of an Electric Boat Co. representative. Fired day
bombardment practice and departed Key West, Fla., 15 September 1944 arriving Balboa,
C.Z. 19 September 1944. Conducted four day intensive training period firing 21
torpedoes and one day and one night bombardment practice. Departed Balboa, C.Z.
28 September 1944 in company U.S.S. KETE. On 2 October, 1944 suffered a repetition
of Key West stern plane casualty decommissioning stern planes until repair at Pearl.
arrived Pearl Harbor, T.H. 15 October 1944 having conducted various training ex-
ercises with KETE enroute. Accomplished voyage repairs including realignment of
stern plane hydraulic system and redesign of bow and stern plane hydraulic pistons.
Received following new gear:

1.  40mm gun on cigarette deck aft.
2.  Relocated 20mm from cigarette deck aft to main deck forward.
3.  APR and SPA equipment.
4.  VHF
5.  RBH in place of RAL 2 receiver.
6.  DCDI.
7.  ABK motor generator set.
8.  TDC speed halving alteration.
9.  ION exchangers.
10. Mk 33 pressure proof binoculars for TBT's.
11. Arma course clock.
12. Booster blower for hull ventilation forward.
13. Hydrogen burning circuits in torpedo rooms.
14. Rocket type signal projector.

B) NARRATIVE.
0 November 1944

330 (VW) Departed Pearl Harbor, T.H. on first war patrol pursuant to ComSubPac
            operation order 376-44 enroute Saipan, escort PC1077.

900 (VW) Escort departed.

230 (VW) SJ radar interference on port bow. Unsuccessfully tried to exchange
            recognition signals with expected PERMIT by keying SJ.

325 (VW) (Ship contact No. 1) 20-55 N, 160-07 W. Radar contact bearing 214(T),
            distance 6000 yards.

330 (VW) Answered visual challenge of PERMIT.

- 1 -
[STAMP: 4 01702]

— page 9 —
U.S.S. PLENNY (SS324)

11 - 18 NOVEMBER 1944

Conducting daily dives, drills, and schools zigzagging by Arma Clock
during daylight.

Noon Positions:
Nov 11 1200 (WX) 20-44 N, 163-15 W
Nov 12 1200 (X) 20-39 N, 163-42 W
Nov 13 1200 (X) 20-28 N, 174-28 W
Nov 14 1200 (Y) 20-22 N, 179-41 E
Nov 15 1200 Omitted
Nov 16 1200 (M) 20-12 N, 174-14 E
Nov 17 1200 (M) 20-10 N, 168-56 E

18 NOVEMBER 1944

1200 (L) 19-51 N, 163-15 E.

1809 (L) 20-15 N, 167-34 E. Strong interference on SJ bearing 000(T) and short
           indication of SD interference. Unsuccessfully attempted to challenge by
           keying SJ. Probably this was east bound CERO. Interference swept
           regularly at 2 RPM.

2116 (L) Transmitted dispatch number one requesting Saipan rendezvous from
           CTG 177.

19 NOVEMBER 1944

1200 (L) 19-12 N, 157-49 E.

20 NOVEMBER 1944

1200 (L) 18-13 N, 152-33 E.

1845 (L) 19-00 N, 156-15 E. Weak interference on SJ bearing 269(T) which soon
           disappeared. Unsuccessfully attempted to challenge by keying SJ. No
           knowledge of friendly forces in that position.

1900 (L) APR detected what was believed to be radar radiation on 200 and 250 MCS.

2242 (L) Transmitted dispatch number two in response to despatch from ComSubPac,
           giving our position at time BLACKFISH had sighted a periscope. Our
           position at 2000 (Z) 19th had been 18-24 N, 153-33 E, 20 miles to south-
           ward of BLACKFISH contact and we were on surface.

21 NOVEMBER 1944

1200 (K) 17-03, N, 148-02 E.

1410 (K) 16-55 N, 147-31 E. Interference on SD radar.

1536 (K) (Aircraft Contact No. 1) 16-52 N, 147-12 E. SD contact at 16 miles
           which disappeared, reappeared at 12 miles, disappeared at 10 miles and
           reappeared at 6 miles whereupon at

1541 (K) Submerged to 150 feet and changed course 90°.

[UNCLEAR: SOPTO P]                                                              - 2 -

— page 10 —
U.S.S. ELENNY (SS324)

21 NOVEMBER 1944 (Cont'd)
1631 (K) Surfaced.
1721 (K) SD interference.
2029 (K) APR contact on 109 MCS with PRF 60 estimated to be another SD radar and
          another APR contact on 112 MCS with PRF 600 estimated to be a U.S. Army
          270 set.
2105 (K) SJ contact on Sarigan Island bearing 270(T) distant 90,000 yards.
2126 (K) SJ contact on Anatahan Island bearing 248(T) distant 108,000 yards.
2220 (K) 16-40 N, 146-17 E. APR contact on 112 MCS.

22 NOVEMBER 1944
0003 (K) 16-54 N, 146-50 E. APR contact on 220 MCS possibly Jap radar on Pagan
          Island indicating 1 RPM.
0248 (K) 16-24 N, 145-09 E. APR contact on 180 MGC steady beam.
0333 (K) Radar interference bearing 270(T) on SJ. Tried SJ keying with no re-
          sponse. Believe this is TRIGGER.
0520 (K) (Ship contact No. 2). 16-20 N, 145-00 E. Established visual communi-
          cations with escort, DD 413 U.S. SWANSON who was then escorting
          TRIGGER. Waiting at rendezvous for SPEARFISH.
0620 (K) (Air craft Contact No. 2) 16-11 N, 145-06 E. Sighted 2 B-24's to east-
          ward.
0920 (K) Sighted SPEARFISH bearing 052(T) distant 15000 yards.
0935 (K) SPEARFISH joined formation, proceeding to Saipan.
1200 (K) 16-14 N, 145-20 E.
1604 (K) Moored starboard side to SPEARFISH in nest alongside U.S.S. FULTON
          at Saipan - Commenced voyage repairs, fueling (41700 gal) and re-
          plenishing of provisions used. Transferred GEORGE, Nicholas Peter,
          #234-46-30, F1c, USN to SubDiv 82 for medical treatment (cellulitis
          infection of arm) and received BLAISDELL, Seal Arthur, #313-07-49, F1c,
          USNR who reported aboard for duty from SubDiv 82 in exchange.

23 NOVEMBER 1944
0900 (I) Underway in company SPEARFISH standing clear of Saipan in company escort
          DD 365. (CUMMINGS).
1200 (I) 15-00 N, 145-14 E.
1309 (I) Mail trip due.
                                                                  - 3 -

— page 11 —
.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

23 NOVEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
1339 (I) Made trim dive.
1354 (I) Escort and SPEARFISH departed for Saipan, SPEARFISH having found repairs
           necessary. Set course for end of Saipan approach lane enroute Luzon
           Strait and point of reporting to CTG 71.
1600 (I) (Aircraft Contact No. 3) 15-00 N, 144-22 E. Sighted Coronado patrol
           bomber northeast bound.
1706 (I) (Aircraft Contact No. 4) 15-10 N, 144-10 E. Sighted B-24 southbound.
1729 (I) APR contact 180 MCS.
2115 (I) 15-39 N, 143-34 E. Interference on SJ radar.
2200 (I) (Ship Contact No. 3) 16-40 N, 143-34 E. Exchanged recognition signals
           and calls with Southbound KITE by keying SJ. Informed KITE that
           SPEARFISH had returned to Saipan, his latest information being that
           he could expect to sight only SPEARFISH.

24 NOVEMBER 1944
0527 (I) Made trim dive.
0731 (K) (Aircraft Contact No. 5) 17-04 N, 141-48 E. SD and later sight contact
           with northbound B-24. Exchanged IFF signals and light recognition
           signals.
1200 (I) 17-36 N, 141-03 E.
1930 (I) Set base course 282(T) having reached NW end of Saipan approach lane.
           Zigzagging by Arma Clock during day and moonlight.

25 NOVEMBER 1944
0525 (I) Submerged for trim and deep dive.
0558 (I) Surfaced with SD secured to prevent DF from Parece Vela Island which
           is expected to be abeam at 1415 distant 65 miles.
0931 (I) (Aircraft Contact No. 6) 19-11 N, 136-44 E. Sighted B-24 range 5000
           yards westbound and exchanged IFF signals.
1200 (I) 19-17 N, 136-12 E.
1744 (I) 19-34 N, 134-56 E. Interference on SJ bearing 085(T) appearing once
           over 16 seconds.
1840 (I) Radar interference disappeared.
1908 (I) 19-39 N, 134-44 E. Interference on SJ radar bearing 180(T) very weak
           and disappeared within a few minutes.
           - 4 -

— page 12 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

25 NOVEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

2147 (I) 19-45 N, 134-09 E. Interference on SJ radar bearing 221 (T) very weak
          which disappeared 5 minutes later. These three SJ interferences are
          believed to be SHAD, TUNA, HADDOCK or REDFISH all of which might be
          sighted according to SubPac dispatch received late this evening.

26 NOVEMBER 1944

1101 (I) Made trim dive and conducted submerged drills.
1128 (I) Surfaced.
1200 (I) 20-22 N, 130-56 E.
1825 (I) Tested 40mm, firing two rounds.
2030 (I) Changed base course to 270(T) headed for Balingtang Strait.

27 NOVEMBER 1944

0603 (I) Submerged for trim dive.
0617 (I) Surfaced with SD radar secured to prevent being DFd while approaching
          Balingtang Channel. Visibility excellent, sky clear except for a few
          cumulus clouds. Posted a sun lookout (extra and 4th lookout).
1200 (I) 20-46 N, 125-19 E.
1659 (I) (Ship Contact No. 4) 20-50 N, 124-10 E. Sighted U.S. Submarine bearing
          195(T) distant about 20,000 yards by periscope on opposite parallel
          course. Identified by high periscope shears and gun aft.
1819 (I) Approaching Balingtang Channel in bright moonlight with listening watch
          set on SJ. APR manned, SD raised, and ready to use in case
          aircraft radar indications are very strong.
1920 (I) Changed base course to 246(T) to head for passage between Batan and
          Balingtang Island.
1935 (I) 20-33 N, 122-54 E. APR contact on possible aircraft radar 155 MCS.
2111 (I) 20-26 N, 120-44 E. Interference on SJ radar appeared 3 times and
          disappeared.
0003 (I) 20-22 N, 122-36 E. Interference on SJ bearing 174(T) for a few seconds.
0020 (I) 20-21 N, 123-32 E. Interference on SJ bearing 040(T) for few seconds
          and APR contact on 98 MCS.
0025 (I) Sighted Batan Island bearing 286(T) distant 28 miles.

- 5 -

— page 13 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

28 NOVEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0045 (I) (Aircraft Contact No. 7). 20-17 N, 122-26 E. Interference on SJ radar
            bearing 044(T), 110(T), and 158(T) for a few seconds and APR contact
            on 153 R(S) growing rapidly stronger. Thought this interference on three
            different bearings might indicate presence of Wolf Pack.

0051 (I) 20-17 N, 122-24 E. APR contact reached maximum signal strength with
            saturation pips on gain setting of 4 and rapidly grew weaker indicating
            plane had probably passed within a few miles. Interference on SJ bearing,
            064(T), 112(T), 158(T), and 352(T) for fraction of a minute.

0100 (I) Increased speed to 18 knots on 4 engines to shorten time in Channel.

0145 (I) 20-12 N, 122-12 E. Interference on SJ bearing 153(T) for a few seconds.
            Executive Officer, Lt. Cdr. R.L. Miller, USN, thought he could catch an
            occasional glimpse of a submarine or small craft on same approximate
            bearing. Not witnessed by anyone else.

0215 (I) 20-09 N, 122-05 E. Interference on SJ bearing 221(T) for a few seconds.

0229 (I) 20-07 N, 121-59 Interference on SJ bearing 104(T) and 130(T) for fraction
            of a minute.

0235 (I) 20-04 N, 121-58 E. Interference on SJ bearing 205(T).

0244 (I) 20-04 N, 121-57 E. Interference on SJ bearing 048(T) and 107(T) for
            a few seconds.

0300 (I) With Sabtang Island bearing 000(T) distant 10 miles changed base course
            to 280(T). Interference on SJ bearing 311(T) for a few seconds.

0400 (I) Slowed to 2 engine speed with Sabtang Island bearing 065(T) distant 13
            miles.

0440 (I) Commenced sweeping with SJ once every 5 minutes listening with it in
            between.

0445 (I) 20-11 N, 121-27 E. Interference on SJ bearing 301(T).

0500 (I) Changed base course to 300(T). It seems clearly evident upon plotting
            the bearings of the SJ interference received, that 3 of a friendly wolf
            pack or 3 of a Jap wolf pack with 10 cm radar had been tracking us during
            the passage of that portion of Balingtang Channel between Balingtang
            Island and Batan Island. Inasmuch as at least one of our own "packs"
            is supposed to be in Luzon Strait or nearbye and since after commencing
            to use our SJ we lost the interference it is assumed the trackers were
            friendly. Our reason for not having used our SJ for searching during
            the night was to deny any SJ DF to possible Jap search receivers in the
            area, land, ship, or airbased. Our justification for it was that the
            brilliancy of moonlight assured sighting any surface shipping to at least
            16,000 yards and any submarine to at least considerably beyond torpedo
            range. The tracking wolf pack very cleverly used "single ping" radar

                                                                - 6 -

— page 14 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

28 NOVEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

methods that left us undecided at the time as to whether the interference
created on the screen was in fact nothing but own ship's interference.

0626 (I) Submerged for day in Luzon Strait making periscope exposures about every
7 minutes at 62' going to 70' between looks for planesmen's experience.

1200 (H) 20-33 N, 120-54 E. Commenced making periscope exposures at 58 feet to
see further.

1801 (H) Surfaced on base course 270(T) proceeding at 1 engine speed. Sweeping
in hand on SJ once every 5 minutes and listening in between.

2055 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 8) 20-52 N, 120-03 E. APR contact on 160 mcs PRF
1250 presumably enemy airborne radar. Interference on SJ at same time
all around dial appearing as high grass above ordinary grass and
decreasing in height towards right side of A scope. With earphones
plugged into SJ receiving circuit, interference sounded like gravel being
thrown at a window pane. With an APR gain setting of 5, keyed SD for
3 seconds - no contact.

2130 (H) Slight flash of interference on SJ bearing 205(T).

2132 (H) Flash of interference on SJ bearing 205(T).

2134 (H) Flash of interference on SJ at 310(T).

2136 (H) Flash of interference on SJ at 296(T).

29 NOVEMBER 1944

0256 (H) 20-44 N, 119-58 E. APR contact on 162 MCS PRF 1250 growing louder; SJ
interference at same time.

0324 (H) Lost APR contact.

0357 (H) 20-12 N, 119-47 E. Weak APR contact on 162 MCS.

0403 (H) APR contact on 162 MCS and SJ interference. Every time the APR had a
contact, the SJ would show interference. It is the theory of Lt(jg)
D.R. Stevens, radar officer, that the interference on the SJ is due to
a possible spark gap receiver protector ("reprod") on the enemy radar
such as on the U.S. SCR 270 Army radar. This would explain the appearance
of SJ interference simultaneously with that of the APR contacts.

0552 (H) Submerged. Hull induction inboard flapper failed to trip shut.
Corrected binding in linkage. Went to 425' for bathothermograph card.
Tightened bow plane shaft glands.

0818 (H) Surfaced on base course 270(T) at one engine speed without using SD.
Sky partly overcast with strato cumulus.

- 7 -

— page 15 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

29 NOVEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1030 (H) Changed base course to 180(T) for final leg to point of reporting to
         CTF 71.
1200 (H) 20-22 N, 117-55 E.
1943 (H) Exercised at battle stations gun action.
1945 (H) Burred out resistor and condenser in CT QCJK training filter circuit.
         Replaced from parts in torpedo room local training filter circuit.

30 NOVEMBER 1944

0000 (H) 18-30 N, 118-00 E. Arrived at point of passing to command of CTF 71
         and commenced patrolling 8 miles east and west of this point on east
         west line.
0545 (H) Submerged for trim and bathythermograph deep dive.
0637 (H) Surfaced with SD secured and continued patrolling at one engine speed
         16 mile east west line with 18-30 N, 118-00 E as center. Sky partly
         cloudy with cumulus clouds.
0800 (H) Passed without signal to command of CTF 71 in accordance with ComSubPac
         Operational Order #376-44; shifted communications to that prescribed
         by CTG 71.1 Op Plan 1-44. Have as yet received no instructions from
         CTF 71.
0943 (H) Received dispatch from CTF 71 instructing us to patrol area Able three
         north of lat 15-30 N.
1044 (H) Changed base course to 180(T) at 2 engine speed proceeding along
         boundary between area Able 2 and 6 enroute NW corner of Able 3.
1200 (H) 18-15 N, 117-57 E.
1214 (H) Changed course to 000(T) to give Jap DF false course and commenced
         trying to call VIXO to transmit acknowledgement of CTF 71 dispatch
         orders.
1220 (H) Slowed to 10 knots.
1230 (H) Set watch on SD.
1250 (H) Changed course to 270(T) hoping to get better antenna radiation.
1310 (H) (Aircraft Contact No.9) 18-20 N, 117-54 E. SD contact at 7 miles
         closing not sighted from bridge. Submerged to 160 feet and changed
         course to 180(T). VIXO had been unsuccessfully called on 8470 Kcs
         twice on 000(T) and on 12705 Kcs, once on 000(T) and twice on 270(T).

- 8 -

— page 16 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

30 NOVEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1356 (H) Periscope depth all clear.

1450 (H) Surfaced with SD being keyed 3 seconds out of 30. Set course 000(T),
          at one engine speed. Successfully called and transmitted acknowledge-
          ment for CIS 71 dispatch orders to VHM. Authentication was not
          correct according to recently inaugurated system but had semblance
          of being correct according to old system.

1522 (H) Transmission ended changed course to 180(T) speed to 2 engine speed
          proceeding to NW corner of Area A-3.

1655 (H) 17-59 N, 117-54 E. APR contact on 155 Mcs very weak fading in and
          out until at

1755 (H) With maximum gain setting of 10, pip on SPA was 1½" high. Believe
          to be air based. Continued to get this contact on and off all night.
          Sweeping every 5' with SJ.

2300 (H) Entered northwestern corner of patrol area (A-3). Decided to spend
          several days patrolling close along coast in daytime looking for
          traffic. Set course 105(T) for Tambobo Point.

2349 (H) Listening only on SJ as moonlight is very brilliant and ships should be
          visible over 16,000 yards.

1 DECEMBER 1944

0001 (H) 16-23 N, 118-28 E. APR contact on 157 Mcs believed to be on land
          based radar apparently sweeping in hand.

0137 (H) 16-22 N, 118-35 E. Interference on SJ bearing 180(T).

0231 (H) Established communication with HAKE by keying SJ and informed her
          of our intention of conducting close patrol off Tambobo Point asked
          her if that was a good position. She replied that it was "a good spot".

0455 (H) Sighted coast south of Cape Bolinao dead ahead.

0514 (H) (Ship Contact No. 5) Sighted ship bearing 105(T) range about 16,000
          yards; headed for it. In 9x60 binoculars he looked like medium
          sized ship.

0518 (H) Angle on bow looked like 90 port so put 4 engines on line and came
          to normal approach course. Radar at first couldn't pick it up but
          finally got range of 12,800 with EI pip (small). Tracked target on
          050 at 8 knots and then 300 at 15 knots.

0524 (H) Target turned towards and at 11,400 yards range it became evident he
          was a single ship resembling a medium sized patrol craft. Changed
          course to SW and tried to evade but as dawn was breaking and setting
          moon furnished our background at

- 9 -

— page 17 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

1 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd

0535 (H) Submerged with Cape Bolinao Light bearing 085(T) distant 29 miles.
           Watched target through periscope and identified him tentatively as
           DE type UN-2, his angle on bow being no greatern than 40° as dawn
           broke. He commenced pinging on us and headed for us. Decided that
           having been sighted and it being early morning that this was a good
           time to try a down the throat shot so as

0617 (H) (Attack No. 1) 16-14 N, 119-19 E. With 3° port angle on bow set in
           TDC target speed 10 knots, gyro angle 183, depth on 2 feet,
           interval 8 seconds fired 3 Mk 18 torpedoes from stern tubes with an
           average torpedo run of 1250 yards. Looked at target in much
           which missed. Looked at target in much
           his angle on bow was zero, a white masthead light was being flashed
           in our direction and two signal hoists were flying at each yardarm.
           Flooded negative went ahead full with right full rudder rigged for
           depth charge, fired two false target shells and at.

0623 (H) First of 14 depth charges in quick succession while at 420' about
           half shallower and half set deeper, moderately close astern, no damage.
           Came to shallower depth as there was a very good gradient and best
           evasive depth was supposed to be 277' according to the bathythermograph.

0728 (H) While at 300', 1 depth charge above and 1 depth charge below but astern
           fairly close, no damage.

0741 (H) While at 325', 18 more depth charges in quick succession about half
           above and half below moderately close. This run was made
           by a different target. We believe there are 2 pingers and one
           listener. On these three runs target came in from quarter pinging
           deliberately and shifted to short scale pinging when he got close. Maneuvered
           to avoid by increasing speed slowly to 2/3 and by changing course at
           right angles to his direction of movement whenever he shifted to short
           bearing. On fourth approach no scale pinging and held a steady true
           right over us slowly while charges were dropped but target went
           pinging on beam. Had not counted apparently coached on by a colleague
           on it but must now accept the fact that the first day in the area for
           a new boat is probably as good as any to stress relieve the hull and
           let all hands know or refresh their memories that there is a war on.
           The Commanding Officer is now personally aware of the universal
           difficulty of hitting a patrol craft but the target was definitely of
           DE size and worthy of a try. If I were to try it again I would wait
           for a shorter torpedo run of about 1000 yards, set angle on bow at
           zero, depth on zero and spread torpedoes slightly more. The reason
           for not setting depth on zero was because it was thought, the slight
           swell might cause a premature. Masthead height used was 50' and it
           appeared that top signal yardarm was even with mastop.

1026 (H) Drew away to north from pingers who lost us then overtook us and
           passed up both sides heading north towards Cape Bolinao in which
           direction they disappeared.

- 10 -

— page 18 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

1 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1200 (H) 16-21 N, 119-22 E.

1300 (H) At periscope depth on course 270(T).

1535 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 10) 16-14 N, 119-09 E. Sighted 2 unidentified
          biplanes bearing 140(T) distant about 6 miles elevation 4° on southerly
          course.

1555 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 11) 16-14 N, 119-08 E. Sighted "Rufe" bearing
          020(T) on northerly course.

1824 (H) Surfaced on course 270 patrolling at 10 knots.

2004 (H) Changed course to 180(T).

2 DECEMBER 1944

0100 (H) Changed course to 090(T) headed for coast off Port Masinloc.

0520 (H) Submerged with Hermana Menor Island bearing 065(T), distant 16 miles
          closing coast on 065(T)

0551 (H) JP picked up weak screws at 025(T).

0555 (H) (Ship contact No. 6) 15-37 N, 119-35 E. Smoke visible at 025(T)
          with 3 feet of periscope exposed. Smoke drifts south, bearing of
          smoke and fresh smoke puffs north. Assuming a minimum range of
          16,000 yards ship is no more than 5 miles west of Hermana Mayor Island
          on northerly course with a 120° port angle on bow. Held course and
          speed as it would be impossible to overtake him. JP identified screws
          as medium light making 112 RPMs and audibly zigzagging. Occasionally
          a lighter set of screws was heard in same direction.

0647 (H) Lost screws and smoke.

0848 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 12) 15-46 N, 119-52 E. Sighted 2 "Rufes"
          bearing 012(T) distant about 6 miles on southerly course about 500
          feet off the water.

0900 (H) Patrolling from 3 to 5 miles off 100 fathom curve between Port Masinloc
          and Hermana Menor Island.

1150 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 13) 15-32 N, 119-55 E. Sighted one "Rufe" on
          southerly course about 3 miles west of Salvador Island about 500 feet
          off water.

1200 (H) 15-35 N, 119-46 E.

1330 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 14) 15-34 N, 119-58 E. Sighted "Rufe" headed
          north along coast at about 500 feet altitude.

- 11 -

— page 19 —
[STAMP: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)]

2 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd

1400 (H)        (Ship Contact No. 7). 15-36 N, 119-58 E. Sighted brown sail in
                direction of north entrance to Port Masinloc on southerly course.

1445 (H)        (Aircraft Contact No. 15) 15-36 N, 119-55 E. Sighted 1 "Rufe" headed
                NW distance about 3 miles. The number of float planes sighted in
                this vicinity plus their movements seems to indicate the probability
                of a seaplane base being located in the vicinity of Port Masinloc or
                in the protected waters inside the 100 fathom curve just north of it.

1824 (H)        Surfaced about 14 miles west of Hermana Mayor Island and spent
                night patrolling from 15 to 30 miles west of Caiman Point. SJ out of
                commission but back in at 2015.

3 DECEMBER 1944

0516 (H)        Submerged with Caiman Point bearing 085(T) distant 8.5 miles patrolling
                between 3 and 5 miles off 100 fathom curve between Caiman Point and
                Hermana Mayor Island. In view of smoke sighted yesterday believe
                some traffic hugs this coast closely. Heavy swell from North.

1200 (H)        15-52 N, 119-38 E.

1822 (H)        Surfaced with Caiman Point bearing 065(T) distant 14.5 miles
                patrolling at one engine speed on 315, 225 and 000(T).

4 DECEMBER 1944

0515 (H)        Submerged with Tamboho Point bearing 095(T) distant 9.5 miles
                closing coast and working up towards Rena Point.

0643 (H)        (Ship Contact No 8) 15-58 N, 119-38 E. Sighted lanteen rigged sail-
                boat close off shore southbound.

0814 (H)        (Aircraft Contact No. 16) 16-01 N, 119-39 E. Sighted "Dave" on
                southerly course skirting beach. Patrolling from 1 to 3 miles off
                100 fathom curve, off Rena Point.

1012 (H)        (Aircraft Contact No. 17) 16-04 N, 119-39 E. Sighted float plane
                headed down coast.

1200 (H)        16-10 N, 119-44 E.

1835 (H)        Surfaced 5.5 miles west of Olanin River mouth and stood westward.

1840 (H)        Sighted reflection of distant searchlight steady in sky bearing 138(T),
                direction of Port Stotsenberg and Manila.

1859 (H)        Sighted flashing white light apparently blinking Morse Characters
                to seaward located about 5 miles south of Bolinao Light on hill top.

1913 (H)        Sighted same flashing white light blinking characters.

- 12 -

— page 20 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

4 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1930 (H) Same light blinking again. On two of these occasions light flashing
for about one minute. We were sweeping once every
followed SJ radar sweep within a minute.
5 minutes. It seems possible that
either our smoke was detected on
starting the engines or the SJ radiation was detected and that this
was a challenge.

5 DECEMBER 1944

0015 (H) With Hermana Mayor Island bearing about 070(T) distant 45 miles had
SJ contacts bearing 073 at 12,000, 24,000, and 42,000 yards resembling
rain squalls although there was no visible squall on that bearing.
Headed for and tracked nearest pip to 2600 yard range at 0200. A
half moon was directly overhead and there was nothing visible on this
bearing and any ship would have been visible easily 16,000 yards.
The other two pips, had closed in a corresponding amount but were still
very weak. The nearest pip was clear but no larger at 12000 yards than
previously at 24,000. Believe these were second pip echoes from land
but forgot to test for by varying P.F.R.

0516 (H) Submerged with Salvador Island bearing 090(T) distant 17 miles closing
coast.

0617 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 18) 15-31 N, 119-39 E. Sighted "Dave" to west-
ward circling.

0645 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 19) 15-31 N, 119-40 E. Sighted "Dave" to NE
distant about 6 miles circling.

0704 (H) (Ship Contact No. 9) 15-31 N, 119-39 E. Sighted black smoke bearing
031(T) in direction of Hermana Menor Island whose bearing changed
slowly left. JP heard medium slow screws on this bearing and got a
110 RPM count.

0724 (H) Sound lost contact of screws and at

0735 (H) Smoke disappeared bearing 012(T). Assuming a minimum range of 16,000
yards, since no spars were visible, contact was hugging 100 fathom
curve on a northerly course between Hermana Menor Island and Hermana
Mayor Island. No attempt was made to chase as first change of bearing
and direction of smoke drift indicated target was headed up coast
with considerably over 90 angle on port bow.

0817 (H) 15-31 N, 119-44 E. When 9 miles due west of Salvador Island reversed
course to avoid running afoul of string of spherical buoys or floats
lying in a 160-340 direction about 500 yards apart. Each float
had about a 6' wand with a small red flag on it and on 2 such floats
there was an auxiliary wand jutting out at an angle. Adjacent to
these two were single spherical black balls about 25 yards distant
floating in the water. Eleven "fishing stakes" were sighted. From
a distance these looked like fishing stakes but from a couple of
hundred yards the two with double wands looked like sono buoys with
antennas rigged. The wands looked like metal whips.

- 13 -

— page 21 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

5 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
0900 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 20) 15-31 N, 119-42 E. Sighted "Dave" in
           direction of coast headed NW.
0905 (H) Headed NW to parallel 100 fathom curve about 4 miles off it.
1101 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 21) 15-36 N, 119-41 E. Sighted "Dave" headed
           NW along coast.
1200 (H) 15-37 N, 119-45 E.
1228 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 22) 15-40 N, 119-45 E. Sighted "Mavis" standing
           towards coast from westward.
1250 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 23) 15-41 N, 119-46 E. Sighted "Rufe" skirting
           coast on southwesterly course and disappeared low down in direction of
           Port Masinloc.
1505 (H) Sighted black smoke which plotted inside Dasol Bay or on the shoreline
           beyond.
1602 (H) (Plane Contact No. 24) 15-47 N, 119-44 E. Sighted unidentified low
           wing monoplane 10 miles to seaward on southerly course.
1618 (H) Smoke no longer visible in Dasol Bay from 3 miles west of Hermana Mayor.
           Changed course to 270(T) to open out for surfacing.
1717 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 25) 15-48 N, 119-42 E. Sighted float biplane
           close to Hermana Mayor Island south bound.
1902 (H) Surfaced 9 miles due west of Hermana Mayor Island with SJ out of
           commission due defective contact. Started charging westward.
2100 (H) SJ back in commission but listening on it only as wish to eliminate
           all possible causes for being picked up before closing coast in morning.

6 DECEMBER 1944
0000 (H) Put rudder over to reverse course to 090 from 270 and had swung 20°
           right when a single engine (radial type) monoplane's silhouette was
           observed close aboard and but a hundred feet high closing from port
           bow. We were making 10 knots, not zigzagging with a ½ moon 15° high
           covered by full overcast in east and rain squall ahead in direction
           from which plane had come. An APR sweep had been continuously in
           progress with no contact and neither SD or SJ had been used since
           surfacing. Submerged but 2 aircraft bombs hit water close aboard on
           starboard quarter before we got under. Chipped a little cork in
           afteroom but no damage. Estimated to be about 50 lb bombs by OOD
           who on S-1½ had been straddled with 50 lb bombs by own Marine planes.
           Believe this plane sighted our change of course helped bombs miss.
           Will zigzag in dark on station hereafter as fortunate coincidental
           wake and chose an approach course to put us in the most favorable light
           background. Just before surfacing discovered that stern planes were
           not operating properly.

- 14 -

— page 22 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

6 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0034 (H) Surfaced in heavy rain squall with frequent thunderclaps and lightening
         flashes. Found that stern plane mechanical indicator had sheared a
         pin probably as result of bombing - repaired in about ½ hour but
         temporarily made us think stern planes were jammed on hard rise.

0110 (H) APR contact on 148 Mc PEF 200-400 varying in intensity up to saturation
         pip with gain setting reduced from maximum of 10 on SPA to 3½. No
         contacts on SJ at any time.

0132 (H) Submerged as it appeared this aircraft radar was on us at close range.

0220 (H) to

0343 (H) Stuck APR CD and SJ out at 45' several times and although at no time
         did SD or SJ make contact, received APR contact on 160 Mcs at the
         time. Claimed by radar officer to be aircraft radar, varying in
         intensity from zero to maximum with gain setting reduced to 3½. Like-
         wise received much interference on APR between 70 and 300 mc. Now
         believe this latter was caused by electrical disturbance in atmosphere,
         probably similar to St. Elmos fire. Radar officer the day after
         thinks both of these contacts were caused by atmospherics.

0416 (H) APR all clear.

0419 (H) Surfaced on 290(T) at one engine speed.

0530 (H) Submerged 71 miles due west of Tambobo Point. Course 290(T). Had
         intended patrolling close off Caiman Point today but plane interfered
         just as we reversed course for coast. Will patrol submerged in this
         part of area and hope to close coast undetected tonight.

1200 (H) 16-02 N, 118-23 E.

1347 (H) Changed course to 090(T).

1758 (H) Surfaced on course 090(T) with Cape Bolinao Lt. bearing 090(T) distant
         62 miles. Standing eastward towards Cape Bolinao at one engine speed
         zigzagging and sweeping with SJ continuously.

7 DECEMBER 1944

0517 (H) 16-30 N, 119-38 E. APR contact on 110 Mc rather faint, probably on
         aircraft warning radar starting up for day.

0518 (H) Submerged on 090(T) with Bolinao Lt bearing 145(T) distant 14 miles,
         seas from north heavy; need 75 turns to hold at 60 feet. Patrolling
         about 13 miles north of Cape Bolinao about 5 miles off 100 fathom
         curve. Experienced 2½ knot current setting 025(T).

1200 (H) 16-39 N, 119-41 E.

- 15 -

— page 23 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

7 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
1445 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 26). 16-35 N, 119-50 E. Sighted "Tess" to NE,
          distance about 8 miles on southerly course.
1831 (H) Surfaced with Cape Bolinao Lt. bearing 155(T) distant 14 miles and
          stood southwestward at one engine speed.
1854 (H) 16-37 N, 119-41 E. APR contact on 157 Mc very weak.

8 DECEMBER 1944
0100 (H) Set course 065(T) for Rena Point.
0515 (H) Submerged 12 miles west of Rena Point with half moon overhead and
          headed to close Rena Point.
0900 (H) Patrolling from 1/4 to 3 miles off 100 fathom curve off Rena Point.
          Force 4-5 swell from north.
1145 (H) (Ship Contact No. 10) 16-10 N, 119-44 E. Sighted small motor sampan,
          without masts distance about one mile off Rena Point and about 750 yards
          apparently headed south. Shortly thereafter sound heard and tracked
          to northward indicating that its light screws until they disappeared.
          probably original angle on bow was port instead of starboard.
1200 (H) 16-10 N, 119-44 E.
1841 (H) Surfaced on course 270(T) 6.5 miles west of Rena Point standing west-
          ward at one engine speed to patrol about 70 miles off the coast on
          the surface in case any traffic is routed well clear of coast. Sub-
          merged patrolling in this sea is very inefficient due low range of
          visibility over swells.

9 DECEMBER 1944
0245 (H) Commenced patrolling about 80 miles off coast on alternate SW and SE
          courses.
0550 (H) Keying SD radar 3 seconds out of 30. Seas about force 6 with 25 foot
          waves, wind about 35 knots from 010(T).
0800 (H) Reached southern boundary of area and stood 10 miles eastward, then
          commenced patrolling NW and NE courses making good a northerly course
          70 miles off beach.
1200 (H) 15-39 N, 118-31 E.
1928 (H) Decided to resume patrol close to coast in morning. Set course
          120(T) of one engine speed for point west of Port Masinloc so as
          to intercept anybody southbound who might have anchored overnight in
          Santa Cruz Harbor.

- 16 -

— page 24 —
[UNCLEAR: 40]

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

10 DECEMBER 1944

0355 (H) 15-32 N, 119-35 E. SJ radar interference bearing 173(T). Believed
           it to be HALDO and unsuccessfully tried to identify by keying
           challenge.

0450 (H) SJ radar interference disappeared.

0515 (H) Submerged 6 miles west of Macalaba Island closing coast to patrol
           about 1 mile off 100 fathom curve.

0700 (H) (Ship contact No. 11). 15-32 N, 119-48 E. Sighted sail close into
           coast bearing 117 (T).

0756 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 28) 15-32 N, 119-49 E. Sighted 1 "Dave" north-
           bound along coast in direction of Hermana Mayor Island.

0825 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 29). 15-33 N, 119-49 E. Sighted 1 "Dave"
           northbound along coast in direction of Hermana Mayor Island.

0853 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 30) 15-34 N, 119-49 E. Sighted 2 "Tess"
           northbound along coast in direction of Hermana Mayor Island.

1043 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 31) 15-36 N, 119-48 E. Sighted 1 Dave to NW
           and seaward headed NW.

1050 (H) Sighted faint black smoke in direction of Santa Cruz anchorage.

1136 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 32) 15-41 N, 119-47 E. Sighted "Thelma" to
           SW and seaward southbound close to water.

1200 (H) 15-40 N, 119-46 E.

1245 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 33) 15-46 N, 119-46 E. Sighted "Rufe" in
           direction of Salvador Island southbound.

1410 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 34) 15-45 N, 119-45 E. Sighted "Rufe" in
           direction of Hermana Mayor Island headed south.

1553 (H) With north end of Hermana Mayor Island bearing 095(T) distant 9 miles
           broached to 45'. Decided that there was a chance we had been sighted
           from beach and at

1603 (H) Changed course to 270(T) to open out for surfacing. This later proved
           a costly maneuver.

1652 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 35) 15-50 N, 119-42 E. Sighted two "Thelmas"
           in direction of Hermana Mayor Island southbound distant about 2 miles.

1720 (H) Sunset.

1722 (H) (Ship Contact No. 12) 15-50 N, 119-41 E. Sighted black smoke bearing
           023(T) in direction of Tambobo Point. Changed course to 090(T).

- 17 -

— page 25 —
10 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd. U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

1733 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 36) 15-50 N, 119-40 E. Sighted float plane in
          direction of smoke.

1735 (H) Sighted masts and funnel of large transport under smoke. Angle on
          bow 50 starboard giving course of 176(T) range unreliable in twilight
          but at least 8000 yards distance to track 7000 yards. Heard pinging
          on same bearing. Changed speed to 2/3 and went to 150'.

1740 (H) Changed speed to standard.

1744 (H) Periscope depth. Sound picked up slow screws on bearing of target
          making 78 rpm.

1752 (H) Angle on bow 100 starboard, sighted second transport astern of first
          about 1000 yards.

1755 (H) Second transport dead ahead angle on bow 90 starboard range 5,500
          yards, two one funnel escorts on transport's bow range to nearest
          escort about 2600 yards.

1800 (H) Sound picked up heavy screws at 030(T) making 90 turns and pinging at
          020(T). Too dark to see anything in periscope with land background
          on both bearings.

1805 (H) Sighted steady white light which plotted on Hermana Menor Island
          apparently turned on as a navigational light.

1811 (H) Decided that inability to see anything through periscope against
          land background and twilight which is too light for approach at radar
          depth would prevent anything except a wasteful expenditure of torpedoes
          on a ship even if it were possible to get within torpedo range which is
          doubtful. Headed for nearest pinger until he drew right and at

1826 (H) Changed course to 270(T) to open out for surfacing expecting that
          this convoy would anchor overnight at Santa Cruz and that there would
          be an opportunity to attack them in the morning as they came out.

1947 (H) Surfaced with Caiman Point bearing 077(T) distant 7 miles. Strong
          interference on SJ radar to NW. Sighted steady white light in
          direction of Tambobo Point and on a hill in the approximate direction
          of Candelaria apparently turned on as navigational lights.

1954 (H) Changed course to 180(T) at 15 knots to see if convoy had continued
          down coast. SJ radar interference very strong on various bearings
          but primarily to westward where it seemed stronger steady on us
          and seemed to be passing down the starboard side rapidly. Thought
          this was either 10 Cm radar equipped escort who had been trailing
          flank of convoy or was a 10 Cm radar equipped plane and at

2016 (H) Reversed course to north to shake interference off but it appeared to
          reverse also drawing as rapidly to the northward as it had to the
          southward.

- 18 -

— page 26 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

10 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd

2047 (H) Changed course to 225 again to shake the radar interference which
          was definitely on us and steady. Secured SJ except for listening
          as our signal seemed to cause interference to continue strong.
          After this maneuver the interference gradually decreased and at

2146 (H) Changed course to 270(T) to run out and complete battery charge at
          one engine speed. Decided that as tomorrow morning was the first
          day in which we were ordered to run aircraft frequencies for expected
          blue aircraft rescue work, it was likely that our aircraft would
          attack any shipping that was in Santa Rosa Harbor in the morning
          and would do so, it seemed probable that shipping in the harbor would
          stand directly out of the entrance between Hermana Mayor Island and
          Hermana Menor Island at sunrise. Decided therefore to dive about
          10 miles due west of central entrance to Santa Cruz Harbor in expectation
          that a convoy inside would be stampeded directly west.

The reasons for failure to make an attack on this contact are
summarized as follows:

     (1) Opening out from 100 fathom curve at 1603 before contact had
          been made (because of broaching), took us away from what would
          have been an ideal position for attack.

     (2) Contact was made after sunset and decreasing light prevented
          observation of the third ship which if seen in time could possible
          have been brought into range for a sound shot. In retrospect,
          if on sighting smoke we had assumed a target base course of 180
          and gone to full speed we could have come within torpedo range.
          This however would have allowed no time for observations while
          there was still light, no time to minimize angle on bow to
          pingers, and would have required firing on an estimated target
          speed and probably at an assumed range. The Commanding Officer
          therefore made the choice of getting all the information he could
          in hopes of using it in the morning with his presence still un-
          known.

11 DECEMBER 1944

0000 (H) APR contact on 154 Mc for 17 minutes.

0030 (H) Reversed course to 090(T).

0500 (H) Submerged on 090(T) with Hermana Mayor Island bearing 070(T)
          distant 8.5 miles.

0521 (H) Sound picked up pinging bearing 085(T).

0528 (H) JP has screws at 040(T).

0542 (H) QB has pinging at 039(T).

                                        - 19 -

— page 27 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

11 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd

0551 (H) QB has pinging at 025(T).
0555 (H) (Ship contact No 13.) 15-44 N, 119-43 E. Sighted 4 goal post
    transport, masts of another ship, and large 2 masted 1 stack transport
    apparently at anchor in channel between Hermana Mayor Island and
    Hermana Menor Island all with port angles on bow - first freighter
    about 50 port bearing 007(T) range about 15,000 yards.
0557 (H) Sighted large freighter bearing 040(T) range about 8000 yards with
    50 port angle on bow which apparently had sortied via channel north
    of Hermana Mayor Island.
0558 (H) Changed course to 000(T) to close freighter and get into area escorts
    were searching where first ship has commenced sortie to westward.
0600 (H) Battle stations torpedo, pinging audible from 025(T) to 085(T) from
    several pingers.
0620 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 37) 15-45 N, 119-43 E. Sighted float plane
    bearing 003(T) distance 4 miles headed west at low altitude. Majority
    of pingers are north, first freighter to sortie now has large star-
    board angle on bow headed south. Changed course to 090(T) to close
    track. Believe we will get within range of third ship to sortie.
0632 (H) Heavy screws at 087(T) seen at
0637 (H) as large freighter similar to Terukawa Maru with 90 starboard angle
    on bow range 5000 yards. Sighted DE-UN 2 on this ship's starboard
    beam, range about 2600 yards. Angle on bow 90 starboard flashing
    white mast head light. (Second ship to sortie).
0641 (H) Sighted 4 goal post transport which had been seen at anchor, under
    way with large starboard angle on bow coming out of main channel
    about 3000 yards west of Hermana Menor Island range about 7000 yards.
    Large transport was then not visible but reappeared south of Hermana
    Menor Island and apparently sortied by passage east of this island.
0710 (H) Changed course to 130(T) with angles on bow of 5 ships over 120
    starboard. Single column standing south close to 100 fathom curve
    at about 13 knots with about 6 escorts at least 2 of which were DE-UN 2
    type. Minimum range on any large ship reached 5000 yards, 2600 to
    nearest escort. We had been at periscope depth all the time and had
    been taking looks at least every 2 minutes. There was a force three
    swell from the north, good white chop and on each look at least
    one air escort had been sighted there being 2 Bettys, 1 Val, and
    2 Rufos patrolling over the sortie area continuously. There quite
    evidently had been no air strike as the ships store south hugging coast.
    Apparently the sortie was planned so that most pinging activity was
    to the north which would tend to cause a submarine to favor that exit.
    Two ships sortied north of Hermana Mayor Island heading NW, then
    altered course 140° to south. Two others came out the central channel

- 20 -

— page 28 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

11 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
0710 (H) Cont'd.

          but stayed 1000 yards inside the 100 fathom curve. The largest and
          most important ship, the large transport apparently sorted east of
          Hermana Menor Island and was not seen until she was a good 12000
          yards SE of us. The only way we could have gotten within torpedo
          range unless we had guessed correctly that ships were going to head
          directly south or making sortie, was to have submerged about 5 miles
          from channel entrance. This we had done for 2 reasons:

          (1) SU had been secured to prevent alerting escorts and without it,
          navigation was not too reliable close inshore.

          (2) The land background made sighting of escorts in that direction ex-
          tremely poor whereas horizon in our direction was good and we
          wanted to be sure of not being sighted. A position about 10
          miles from entrance was considered good from the standpoint of
          picking up any aviators who might be downed in the projected air
          strike inasmuch as in that position it would be possible to surface
          without being under fire from shore batteries. As a result of
          watching this very clever sortie, the Commanding Officer intends
          when patrolling inshore to patrol very close to the 100 fathom
          curve SW of Hermana Menor Island in the morning when ex-
          pecting a southbound sortie. After daybreak, when it becomes
          evident no sortie took place, he intends to follow the 100 fathom
          curve and proceed north in the hopes of intercepting any convoy
          headed south, before dark. This of course does not cover north-
          bound convoys which may have anchored at Santa Cruz overnight
          and which, since we sighted smoke on two previous occasions,
          apparently leave there early in the morning also. To intercept
          when such shipping is expected, it will be necessary to be close
          aboard Caiman Point early in the morning. Watching a minimum of
          40,000 tons of fast shipping go by without a shot is a great
          disappointment but one can't help admiring the masterful way in
          which the Japs executed the sortie. The ships sighted are identifi-
          ed as follows:

          Tonnage     Ship                               Identification
          6429        Terukawa Maru (ex Nora Maersk)     AK Positive
          10300       Aihoko Maru                        AP or similar type
          12755       Argentine Maru                     AP Probable
          4436        Husimi Maru                        AP or similar type
          9815        Heiyo Maru                         AP or similar type

0729 (H)  Opening out from coast on 270 at 75 rpm. Intend to surface and
          resume guarding air strike frequencies when clear of coast.

0843 (H)  (Aircraft contact No. 38) 15-46 N, 119-49 E. Sighted "Rufe" 5 miles
          to westward southbound.

1200 (H)  15-49 E, 119-30 E.

                                        - 21 -

— page 29 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

11 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd

1333 (H) Surfaced keying SD 3 seconds out of 30 with Hermana Mayor Island
 bearing 096(T) distant 23 miles standing westward to patrol 70 miles
 off shore during prospective air strike. Had delayed surfacing while
 repairing VHF radio.

1519 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 39) 15-47 N, 119-00 E. Sighted "Mavis" bearing
 020(T), distant 10 miles southbound and close to water. Submerged.

1536 (H) Watched plane disappear to southward. Believe we were not sighted.

1548 (H) Surfaced standing westward to patrol 70 miles off shore at one engine
 speed.

1828 (H) SJ interference bearing about 010(T). Believe this is CAIMAN
 proceeding to area.

1834 (H) Headed for the interference to close and challenge.

1835 (H) SJ interference bearing about 130(T). Believe this is HADDO leaving
 area.

1906 (H) No more SJ interference to northward. Changed course to 270(T). SJ
 interference to SW seems to be drawing north slowly.

2020 (H) Patrolling east and west on hourly legs 70 miles west of Tambobo
 Point. Received contact report as a result of search by recco
 plane over Santa Cruz. 1 CA, 1 DD, and 1 large unidentified ship
 as of midnight last night anchored in Santa Cruz harbor. This plane
 may have carried 10 cm radar and may have been the cause of our
 interference last night. In the dark however she must have mistakenly
 identified the convoy that sorted this morning.

12 DECEMBER 1944

0010 (H) Successfully challenged SJ interference bearing about 100(T) and
 exchanged calls with HADDO.

0030 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 40) 15-51 N, 118-35 E. Submerged upon the
 sighting of a plane's exhaust near horizon to eastward by JOOW. This
 may have been a rising star.

0056 (H) Surfaced and resumed patrolling.

0545 (H) Set watch on SD keying it 3 seconds out of 30. Intend to conduct
 surface patrol 70 miles west of coast today in view of impending air
 strike and likelihood shipping will be diverted far to sea. If we
 receive no word today clarifying when the prospective strike is to
 take place, will close coast tonight for submerged patrol tomorrow.

0627 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 41) 15-55 N, 118-46 E. Unidentified bomber
 sighted to NE distant 6 miles on northerly course submerged.

- 22 -

— page 30 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

12 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
0715 (H) Surfaced.
1200 (H) 15-58 N, 118-44 E.
1319 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 42) 15-58 N, 118-36 E. Sighted unidentified
         plane bearing 215(T) distant 7 miles on easterly course. Submerged.
1320 (H) Received orders to be on station 20 miles west of Bolinao Light at
         sunrise on 14th for air rescue work.
1354 (H) Surfaced.
1915 (H) Changed course to 180(T) sweeping with SJ once ever 5 minutes.
2200 (H) Changed course to 090(T) to head for coast off Santa Cruz.

13 DECEMBER 1944
0317 (H) Interference on SJ bearing 243(T). Believe this is CATMAN.
0343 (H) Unsuccessfully tried to challenge SJ interference.
0518 (H) Submerged on 060(T) with Hermana Menor bearing 052(T) distant 5.5
         miles, the place we should have been at this time two days ago.
         Standing toward 100 fathom curve on northerly
         courses.
0612 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 43) 15-41 N, 119-47 E. Sighted "Dave" in direc-
         tion of Hermana Menor Island northbound. Santa Cruz Harbor appears
         all clear.
1000 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 44) 15-49 N, 119-45 E. Sighted northbound
         "Dave" to NE over coast line.
1200 (H) 15-54 N, 119-44 E.
1220 (H) (Ship Contact No. 14) 15-56 N, 119-44 E. Sighted sail to NE
         apparently standing out of Dasol Bay rounding Caiman Point. Sound
         has screws on that bearing making 120 rpm.
1240 (H) Lost sight of contact and screws. Vessel was a small lugger, one
         quadrilateral sail set and stood north hugging coast within a few
         hundred yards.
1340 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 46) 15-59 N, 119-43 E. Sighted northbound "Rufe"
         low over coast to eastward.
1545 (H) 16-05 N, 119-46. Sighted what appeared to be old wreck of small engines
         aft ship on beach showing stack aft, and double set of goal posts,
         one on forward side and one on afterside of bridge. Remainder of
         hulk was submerged.

- 23 -

— page 31 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

13 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd

1759 (H) Changed course to 270(T) to open out for surfacing.
1856 (H) Surfaced on course 245(T) with Rena Point bearing 115(T) distant
3.9 miles.
1915 (H) Changed course to 180(T) about 6 miles off beach to patrol coast as
far as Hermana Mayor to see if anyone is visible in Dasol Bay or
Santa Cruz Harbor.
2150 (H) Nothing detected by radar in Dasol Bay or Santa Cruz Harbor from 4
miles west of Hermana Mayor; opening out from coast on 270(T).

14 DECEMBER 1944

0000 (H) Changed course to 000(T) patrolling up coast about 20 miles off beach
towards aircraft rescue position for tomorrow.
0108 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 47) SJ contact bearing 096(T) 11,200 yards
distant with radar interference on same bearing, range opening.
0133 (H) SJ radar interference and pip bearing 029(T) distant 23,000 yards.
0134 (H) Pip closing from 040(T) range 12750 to 049(T) range 7280. Interference
very strong. Bearing then changed rapidly to 007.
0135 (H) Submerged.
0232 (H) Radar depth, all clear on APR and SJ.
0237 (H) Surfaced.
0511 (H) On aircraft rescue station 20 miles west of Bolinao Light.
0516 (H) Weak APR contact on 113 Mc. Apparently early warning radar on
shore starting up.
0612 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 48) 16-23 N, 119-31 E. Sighted "Betty" north-
bound low down over coast in direction of Cape Bolinao distant about
10 miles.
0621 (H) (Aircraft Contact No 49) 16-23 N, 119-31 E. Sighted float plane to
SE in direction of coast northbound range about 15 miles.
0628 (H) (Ship Contact No. 15) 16-29 N, 119-44 E. Sighted 2 masts of small
vessel over horizon bearing 022 (T).
0629 (H) Changed course to head ship off and put 4 engines on propulsion as
considered that although nothing had been heard on VHF air strike
and that since this target looked
small and was within a few miles of our station, we could investigate
target and still be within VHF range of our plane escorts.

- 24 -

— page 32 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

14 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd

0648 (H) Ship identified as 250 ton Jap sea truck exactly similar in silhouette
        to that pictured in ONI weekly except that hull looked longer and
        distance between masts looked proportionately greater. White numeral
        5 was painted on front center of bridge. Target tracking on course
        110(T) at 5 knots.

0649 (H) Battle stations gun action.

0707 (H) Commenced firing 40mm and 20mm at 2800 yards as range closed. 40mm
        fired beautifully mechanically except that in the force 3 sea existing,
        forward 20mm jammed on first shot due to broken shell but finally commenced
        firing after which time no trouble was had. Commenced firing both 40mm and
        .30 cal. when within range and at 1200 yards opened fire with 5". First 5 shots
        were hits which set target afire aft. Continued slugging target until at

0735 (H) 16-34 N, 119-40 E. Target heeled over on its beam ends and sank.
        Ammunition expenditure was excessive but as we had a SD contact steady
        at 15 miles wanted to sink target and eradicate source of black
        smoke before we were sighted at the same time making it impossible
        for anybody on target to take a pot shot at us as we closed into 600
        yards. Ammunition expended:

        5" - 47 rounds about 25 hits
        40mm - 96 rounds about 6 hits
        20mm - 450 rounds Many hits
        .30 cal. - 1875 rounds Many hits

        During first part of firing, man was seen to man object on top of
        bridge resembling machine gun but as soon as 20mm and .30 cal began
        to hit he cleared bridge. Several dozen 50 gal oil drums floated
        clear of target and appeared to be empty. Two Japanese survivors clad
        only in "Panduchis" were seen to jump clear of ship just before she
        sank.

0738 (H) Headed back for rescue station.

0743 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 50) 16-26 N, 119-42 E. SD contact 8 miles
        closing; failed to answer IFF signals and as yet no VHF communications.
        Submerged.

0800 (H) Came up to 45 feet and got another SD contact, probably from same
        plane at 8 miles.

0815 (H) Sound reports pinging to NE.

0834 (H) (Ship Contact No. 16) and (Aircraft Contact No. 51) 16-24 N, 119-39 E.
        Came up to 45' and sighted "Rufe" over a new two stack DD and small
        two masted composite type ship bearing 100(T) distant about 20,000
        yards on southerly course hugging coast angle on bow close to 90
        starboard.

- 25 -

— page 33 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

14 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0835 (H) Sound has pinging from two sources in direction of convoy.

1035 (H) Last of pinging died out on bearing 275(T). Smoke from the one ship
of convoy sighted tracked close to 12 miles at eight knots until south of
Cape Bolinao when at about 1000 plot of bearings indicated change of
course to SW.

1104 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 52). 16-23 N, 119-35 E. Came up to 45' and
got SD contact at 8 miles closing with no VHF contact.
1106 (H) Sighted 2 fighters in close formation which looked friendly.
1109 (H) At 45 feet, no BN returns.
1114 (H) Surfaced and identified 2 planes as F6F Hellcats with star and bar
markings, our escorts. Informed them of DD and AK we had seen.
1131 (H) In communication with escorts.
1150 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 53)16-36 N, 119-35 E. Sighted friendly Liberator
to NW southbound.
1200 (H) 16-30 N, 119-38 E. Patrolling rescue station.
1227 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 54) 16-26 N, 119-36 E. Sighted another Liberator
to SE on SW course.
1408 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 55) 16-26 N, 119-30 E. Sighted another
Liberator with #757 on his side who came in on us with zero angle on
bow on our beam as passed above at about 500 feet altitude and
slightly ahead. A definitely unfriendly and unairmanlike gesture.
Heard aviators asking each other over interphone what kind of submarine
that was.
1558 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 56) 16-26 N, 119-30 E. Sighted "Jake" bearing
090(T) distant about 8 miles, elevation 10', headed north in direction
of Cape Bolinao. Air escort reported they were departing for base.
Notified air escort of bogey astern.
1610 (H) Changed course to 235(T), directly into sun slick putting "Jake"
astern with 20 port angle on bow, headed seaward, and closing. In-
formed air escort that there was a float bogey to our NE flying low.
Then when SJ range was 5,800 yards submerged. Had idea the "Jake"
couldn't see us because of the low glaring sun but believe he knew
we were around.
1617 (H) At periscope depth a most interesting picture unfolding. "Jake"
turning frantically in a tight vertical bank at about 500 feet with
one F6F zooming him while other F6F regained altitude. "Jake" lost
what little altitude he had, flattened out, and with F6F hot on his
tail disappeared from view below wave top. Ten seconds later at

- 26 -

— page 34 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

14 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1621 (H) a column of spray moving right rose from his bearing.

1622 (H) Surfaced and headed for downed Jap.

1629 (H) Air escort departed for base for day with the words "we smashed
         that bogey". We claim an assist on that Jap.

1654 (H) At scene of crash, plane had sunk leaving three aviators in water in
         life jackets, one apparently dead, who wriggled out of his life jacket.
         Decided this was not the time to take prisoners as the remaining Jap
         looked as if he might be wounded and submerged as we approached.
         We had to conserve all the room possible for any of our own aviators
         that landed. Searched area un- successfully for Codo books or such
         and recovered only pilots cushioned seat for movie chair.

1717 (H) Returning to station.

1821 (H) Patrolling on station. On east and west courses approaching coast
         to 10,000 yards on east leg.

2025 (H) (Ship Contact No. 17). 16-18 N, 119-33 E. SJ radar contact at 12300
         yards bearing 104(T) drawing right within 1500

— page 35 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

15 DECEMBER 1944

0107 (H) Surfaced standing north towards air rescue station.

0308 (H) Thought we had SJ pip close to land and stationed radar tracking party.
        Closed beach to 6000 yards but contact proved false alarm.

0454 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 58) 16-25 N, 119-30 E. APR contact on 154 Mc
        steady saturation pip with gain setting of 6.

0457 (H) Keying SD, pip 7 miles, closing.

0458 (H) With pip at 2 miles submerged range of 1 mile showing as mast went
        under. Believe there was more than one plane at this time from size
        of pip.

0629 (H) At 45' SD contact at 4 miles.

0646 (H) Surfaced on rescue station.

0653 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 59) 16-25 N, 119-30 E. Sighted "Tess" to west-
        ward northbound at about 6000 feet distant 3 miles opening. Could see
        red ball on fuselage. Looked appropriately bloody in morning sunlight.

0702 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 60) 16-25 N, 119-30 E. SD contact at 4 miles.

0704 (H) Sighted "Tess" northbound following on heels of previous "Tess".
        Could also see red ball on side. There were considerable cumulus
        clouds in the sky and believe we were not sighted. Even had we been,
        believe we would not have been bothered as they were transports.

0735 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 61). 16-25 N, 119-30 E. Sighted unidentified
        plane bearing 090(T) northbound distant 12 miles.

0746 (H) Sighted tremendous column of smoke in direction of San Fernando rising
        5000 feet plus in air to mingle with clouds.

0852 (H) In communication with air escort.

0920 (H) 16-21 N, 119-37 E. Periscope watch sighted object 12 miles due west
        of Bolinao Light which looked like periscope bearing 051(T). Object
        soon looked larger like ball or shape at which time radar got a range
        on it of 8,500 yards. Object could not be picked up thereafter.
        Could have been a belly tank dropped from a fighter or a Jap sub.
        Avoided that area as if it were latter.

1200 (H) 16-16 N, 119-36 E.

1341 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 62) 16-16 N, 119-36 E. Sighted southbound
        Liberator to NE.

1422 (H) Received word from plane on VHF that there were two men down near
        Subic Bay and that they could not get into communication with CAIMAN.
        We tried to get word to CAIMAN on 4475 Kcs unsuccessfully.

- 28 -

— page 36 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

15 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1519 (H) Air escort departed for day.

1539 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 63) 16-19 N, 119-27 E. Sighted unidentified
        low wing monoplane coming in low with zero angle on bow distant 6
        miles. Believe this is a Jap.

1540 (H) Submerged - watched him through periscope as we dove and he continued
        to circle us for about 20 minutes before he left for base 20 minutes
        with no expectation of relief, stayed submerged until at

1826 (H) Surfaced and stood south patrolling about 11,000 yards off beach.

1845 (H) 16-11 N, 119-27 E. Interference on SJ radar bearing 215(T), inter-
        mittent and faint, probably CAMAN.

2035 (H) (Ship Contact No. 18) 16-22 N, 119-42 E. Sighted white light bearing
        014(T) on horizon which turned out to be a properly marked hospital
        ship tracking on steady course of 195(T) at 7 3/4 knots. Ship had red
        cross illuminated on foremast, funnel and presumably on top
        of bridge as red lights could be seen there as ship rolled. Deck
        line was marked by a row of green lights. Resumed patrolling.

16 DECEMBER 1944

0500 (H) On aircraft rescue station.

0512 (H) 16-23 N, 119-33 E. Faint APR contact on 113 Mc. Apparently the same
        early morning shore based radar warming up we have heard several times
        before at this time.

0619 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 64) 16-22 N, 119-26 E. Sighted Northbound "Tess"
        to SE distant 7 1/2 miles at about 6000 feet.

0700 (H) Air escorts reported on station.

0723 (H) Took advantage of air escort and sunlight to convert #4 FBT to a
        ballast tank. Topside job required 22 minutes.

0955 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 65) 16-20 N, 119-27 E. Sighted northbound
        Liberator to SE, distant 7 1/2 miles.

1142 (H) Sighted smoke bearing 153(T) in direction of Port Masinloc. This
        looks like smoke from a burning ship.

1200 (H) 16-20 N, 119-32 E.

1345 (H) Overheard aviators talking about a ship 30 miles bearing 270(T)
        from them and tried to get position from them but they said they
        could not give any other information.

1429 (H) Air escort left station for day.

- 29 -

— page 37 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

16 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1900 (H) Submerged for trim dive and to flush out #4 ballast tank.

1948 (H) Surfaced on course 240(T) standing towards SW corner of area at one
         engine speed. Decided that tonight and tomorrow the chances are
         pretty good that any traffic will pass well off shore because of the
         possibility of the air strike continuing tomorrow (from the Jap's
         standpoint).

17 DECEMBER 1944

0400 (H) Changed course to 030(T) having reached point 100 miles west of
         Santa Cruz and wishing to patrol 60-70 miles off shore during day.
         Seas have mounted to force 5 with 25 foot waves, wind to 25 knots,
         all from north.

0603 (H) Keying SD 3 seconds out of 30 and sweeping with SJ con-
         tinuously since we found out from our life guard work that the SJ
         picks up planes within 5 miles very reliably when they are a few
         degrees above horizon and frequently when they are as high as 35°.

1006 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 66) 16-16 N, 118-30 E. 75 miles west of Cape
         Bolinao. Sighted "Betty" bearing 053(T) elevation 4° and coached SJ
         on. Pip at 10,200 yards grew from 1/8" to 3/4" as angle on bow in-
         creased from 45 starboard to 90 starboard. Plane on northerly course.

1008 (H) Submerged.

1054 (H) Surfaced, patrolling east and west since plane might have been
         scouting ahead of a convoy.

1150 (H) APR contact on 80Mc very faint, ½" pip on SPA with gain setting 10.

1200 (H) 16-21 N, 118-28 E.

1218 (H) Lost APR contact.

1400 (H) Set course SW to close coast as expect traffic will be routed along
         coast tomorrow, there having been no air strike today.

1411 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 67) 16-2 N, 118-27 E. Sighted low wing mono-
         plane with square wing tips possibly "Sonia" bearing 015(T) elevation
         20° range 5 miles, angle on bow zero. Submerged.

1607 (H) Surfaced using SJ and APR. SD secured.

1630 (H) (Aircraft Contact No 68) 16-20 N, 118-28 E. Sighted unidentified
         plane through periscope bearing 255(T), distant 8 miles angle on bow
         zero, elevation 6°. Submerged. It looks as if we may have been
         sighted or pretty accurately cut in by using our SD this morning.
         Decided to stay down till dark then head for coast and close in sub-
         merged patrol. Believe sufficient time has elapsed since air strike
         for traffic to be rerouted close to coast.

- 30 -

— page 38 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

17 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
1914 (H) Surfaced about 60 miles west of Rena Point and stood to eastward at
             one engine speed.

18 DECEMBER 1944
0130 (H) Changed course to 180(T) with land in vicinity of Cape Bolinao distant
             13000 yards to eastward, skirting coast from 13,000 to 16,000 yards.
0515 (H) Submerged with Hermana Menor Island bearing 071(T), distant 5.2 miles.
             Sighted several native sailing craft inside 10 fathom curve between
             Port Masinloc and Santa Cruz.
0925 (H) Taking still photographs of Hermana Menor Island from 2.5 mile range.
1010 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 69) 15-41 N, 119-46 E. Sighted large un-
             identified land monoplane to NE towards Hermana Mayor Island circling,
             distant 6 miles.
1120 (H) Took pictures of Hermana Mayor and Hermana Menor Island.
1200 (H) 15-44 N, 119-46 E.
1201 (H) 15-44 N, 119-46 E. Sighted sail to eastward inside Dasol Bay.
1437 (H) Took photographs of Hermana Mayor and Hermana Menor Island from
             another view.
1532 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 70) 15-43 N, 119-45 E. Sighted southbound
             "Betty" bearing 300(T) distant 3 miles elevation 3°.
1755 (H) Changed course to 270(T) to open out from coast for surfacing.
1914 (H) Surfaced with Hermana Mayor Island bearing 100(T) distant 4 miles
             patrolling northward about 7 miles off coast.
2131 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 71) 16-10 N, 119-37 E. Submerged for SJ
             contact bearing 229(T) distant 3,500 yards which had closed to 270(T)
             distant 4,200 yards by the time radar went under. Plot of positions
             showed plane on about 020(T) speed 90 knots which converged our course
             of 000(T). Feel certain plane was not close enough to see our 10 kt
             wake. There was no indication of APR or interference on SJ. The SJ
             is definitely an aircraft warning asset at anytime, and especially at
             night when planes come in low.
2217 (H) Surfaced patrolling up coast towards Cape Bolinao.
2340 (H) 16-19 N, 119-38 W.

19 DECEMBER 1944
0002 (H) Fleeting SJ contact bearing 310(T) range 33650 yards which drew 5°
             right and disappeared with range increasing. Probably same plane as
             71st contact.

                                                               - 31 -

— page 39 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

19 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0015 (H) Weak APR contact on 113 Mcs PRF 350, 40 micro seconds apparently
          rotating at from 1 to 4 rpm. This sounds like the radar we have heard
          started up at 0515 on several previous occasions when near Cape
          Bolinao.

0049 (H) APR contact growing louder and seemingly stopped rotating. Saturation
          pip on SPA with gain setting reduced to 8 as we got close to Cape
          Bolinao. Nearest land 15,000 yards when contact loudest.

0051 (H) Opened out from land and then headed back down coast 7 miles off shore
          as it seems possible this radar got a pip on us. More likely however
          we came within range of minor lobes on this radar and received the
          false impression from a steady signal that he had picked us up. The
          best guess is that it is a shore based aircraft warning radar located
          in the vicinity of Bolinao Harbor.

0516 (H) Submerged 6 miles west of Agno Bay and commenced patrolling from 2-3
          miles off shore between Rona Point and Barani Point.

0934 (H) Put #4 main engine out of commission to renew cracked liner.

1200 (H) 16-07 N, 119-44 E.

1442 (H) Broached to 44 feet when 1 mile SW of Rena Point.

1630 (H) #4 main engine back in commission, liner renewed.

1737 (H) Changed course to 270(T) with Barani Point 1.5 miles to east to open
          out for surfacing.

1754 (H) (Ship contact No. 19) 16-03 N, 119-43 E. Sighted lights of what
          appeared to be properly marked hospital ship similar to ship contact
          No. 18 bearing 345(T), distant 12,000 yards angle on bow about 150
          starboard which would give course of 015(T).

1855 (H) Surfaced 6 miles west of Barani Point standing to westward to patrol
          about 70 miles off coast. As there has been no activity along coast
          the last two days and not even any aircraft activity today it appears
          that if there is any traffic moving it must be off coast and probably
          well off coast to prevent easy attack by aircraft.

2225 (H) Changed course to 350(T) at one engine speed having received orders
          to take position to northward in forming wolf pack composed of LAPON,
          CAIMAN, and BLENNY. One engine speed gives but 6 knots over ground
          with a force 5 swell from north and 30 knot wind but as other 2 boats
          are to south of us and as this speed will put us on station by 1600
          tomorrow, believe use of more engines is unnecessary and unjustified.

20 DECEMBER 1944

0551 (H) Manning SJ during daylight as aircraft detector; SD secured as believe
          it will draw air patrols.
                                                              - 32 -

— page 40 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

20 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1200 (H) 17-34 N, 118-54.5 E.

1500 (H) 17-50 N, 118-50 E. On station patrolling at one engine speed.

1852 (H) APR contact on 200 Mc, very faint and on for just a few minutes.

1820 (H) First of a series of interferences on SJ which resembled SJ interference
           plotting on three average bearings to northward 345(T), 355(T), and
           020(T) all apparently from a SubPac wolf pack at least 30 miles distant,
           if they are in their area.

1843 (H) Received message on wolfpack frequency from CAIMAN instructing LAPON
           and BLENNY to search from port and starboard flanks plus something
           about "transmit off 328" which could not be clarified after a number
           of retransmissions. Had mistakenly thought Fred Lucas in LAPON was
           pack commander and "Duke" MacDonold skipper in CAIMAN instead of
           possible meaning that transmitter in LAPON was off and CAIMAN was
           relaying for LAPON. To clarify this at

2125 (H) Called CAIMAN and asked her if she was in communication with LAPON
           and at

2137 (H) Received answer that she was. After thinking this over came to
           conclusion Lucas was OTC in CAIMAN and that meaning from original
           message was sufficiently clear to indicate that we and LAPON were to
           patrol our respective stations relative to CAIMAN who was in center.
           Considered further communication unnecessary and undesirable because
           of chance of DFing it. Continued to patrol station on east west lines,
           2 miles in either direction.

2200 (H) Believe CAIMAN's radar must be on as have received no interference
           from her direction.

21 DECEMBER 1944

0000 (H) Patrolling on station with force 5 swell and 35 knot wind shifting
           slowly to right, now from about 045 indicative of typhoon to SE and
           supported by message which says there is one at 15 N, 124 E moving
           west at 12 knots.

1200 (H) 17-51 N, 118-50.

1202 (H) 17-51 N, 118-50 E, (90 miles to nearest land). Weak APR contact on
           139 Mc. PRF from 180 to 250, PW 6 micro seconds seemingly rotating
           at 1 rpm. Could be ship or shore radar. Probably in direction of
           land (to E) as weakest signal was received on that heading and our
           poorest APR reception is dead ahead.

1250 (H) Lost APR contact.

- 33 -

— page 41 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

21 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1453 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 72) 17-50 N, 118-52 E. Sighted "Betty" bearing
           000(T) range 3 miles with zero angle on bow elevation about 2° sub-
           merged.

1553 (H) Surfaced.

1850 (H) Received message from CAIMAN directing pack to steer hourly legs east
           and west commencing on even and odd hours respectively being in the
           assigned positions on the even hours. Commenced patrolling east and
           west.

22 DECEMBER 1944

0621 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 73) 18-00 N, 118-48 E. Sighted northbound "Tess"
           bearing 130(T), distant 4 miles, elevation 15°, angle on bow zero.
           Believe this position is on a milk run between Manila and some place
           to north. Submerged.

0654 (H) Surfaced and resumed patrol. Wind has shifted to about 070(T) seas
           reduced to force 4 and wind to 20. Typhoon is passing clear to south-
           ward.

1200 (H) 17-50 N, 118-44 E.

2200 (H) Received WBPACCO message from CAIMAN instructing us to patrol south
           of Lat 17-30 N (in area A-2).

2208 (H) Set course 130(T) at one engine speed to head for San Fernando in-
           tending to patrol submerged as close to San Fernando as possible.

2322 (H) Interference on SJ bearing 292(T).

2355 (H) Exchanged challenge and reply with CAIMAN on SJ.

23 DECEMBER 1944

0536 (H) 16-23 N, 120-04 E. APR contact on 160 Mc appearing to be sweeping.

0538 (H) APR contact shows ½ inch pip on SPA with full gain setting of 10.
           Thought this could be land based radar and might possibly pick us up
           as nearest land was 12.5 miles.

0539 (H) Submerged with nearest land bearing 110(T) distant 23,000 yards.
           (San Fernando Point, so we thought) closing beach and endeavoring to
           cut ourselves in.

0750 (H) Sighted light brown smoke rising vertically bearing 178(T). Came to
           periscope depth. Believed this smoke was in direction of San
           Fernando Harbor and we were in fact some 13 miles to the northward off
           Darigayos Point.

- 34 -

— page 42 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

23 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
0906 (H) Changed course to 160(T) to close coast, smoke definitely from San
Fernando shoreline.

0925 (H) (Ship Contact No. 22) 16-51 N, 120-15. Sighted two masts and funnel
of ship bearing 051(T) distant about 20,000 yards angle on bow 45 star-
board. Changed course to 130(T).

0930 (H) Changed speed to standard.

0931 (H) Changed speed to full, went to 80 feet.

0936 (H) Battle stations torpedo.

0946 (H) Slowed and came to periscope depth. Target has small starboard angle
on bow.

0948 (H) Sound has pinging at 055(T).

1001 (H) Changed course to 090(T) to shorten approach. Escort visible on star-
board bow of target violently showing from 45 starboard to
60 port angle on bow. He looked like a DE.

1007 (H) Changed course to 045(T) to minimize angle on bow to escort.

1010 (H) Running silently.

1018 (H) Angle on bow of target now larger, about 45 starboard commenced swing-
ing right to firing course, escort now well outside of us. Sound gets
90 rpm on twin screws. On final bearing, taken when angle on bow was
about 70 starboard, noticed that rails and deck houses were solid line
of olive green clad troops from bow to stern. Target then considerably
more than filled periscope in High Power. Target resembled the Africa
Maru in silhouette and by extension in periscope was at least 475' in
length.

019 (H) (Attack No. 3) Got single ping range of 1400 yards and commenced firing
6 torpedoes forward, depth set 6 feet, spreading from forward aft,
gyros about 30 right, torpedo run about 1100 yards, track close to 90,
firing interval 8 seconds using target speed 10 knots, course 200(T).

020 (H) 57 seconds after firing, first torpedo heard to explode first of 5
timed hits the last hit being at 92 seconds, interval between hits
about 8 seconds. At plus 1'-45" a 6th explosion was heard mushy and
different sounding believed to be either the last torpedo hitting the
beach, a depth charge or an internal explosion on the target. Due to
a combination of trying to watch for escort and being ducked as we
turned away from beach with full rudder after firing, Commanding Officer
did not get a clear view in target's direction until a few seconds after
last explosion. At this time target was completely obscured by spray,
white smoke or a combination of both. With reluctance, further attempts
to look were abandoned as we were at 68 feet turning with full rudder
and as we speeded up did not want to show periscope wake. The beach

- 35 -

— page 43 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

23 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

was very close and we were a good 1000 yards inside the 100 fathom
curve. Ordered 225' and sound head rigged in on way down. Heard
minor explosions and crackling over sound gear and through hull
followed by a very loud sound as of escaping air which persisted for
about 2 minutes and which was heard most loudly in the after torpedo
room they being but 900 yards or so from the target. This noise
then gradually died out. This noise we are positive
was ship sinking. With 5 hits and sinking in about 2 minutes, we
believe a goodly percentage of the troops on this transport perished.

1034 (H) At 240' bottomed without shock on rocky coral bottom; loud noise in
sound head and JK-QC became impossible to train. Word to raise one
sound head had not been passed forward although heard in Control Room.
QB however, was raised shortly upon bottoming and was later found to
be serviceable although apparently considerably bent.

1035 (H) Off bottom working to north and west at 225'.

1052 (H) Loud pinging all around.

1102 (H) First of ten fairly close(about 100 yds) depth charges singly dropped
3'-30" from first to last, all astern, half above and half below
while at 220'.

1112 (H) First of 8 more depth charges from escort not close (400-500 yds) all
astern and above while at 220'. 3'-53" from first to last charge.

1114 (H) Fired false target shell in hopes escort would pick it up. No more
depth charges after this. Hear screws and pinging of a second escort
in distance.

1140 (H) One escort on beam, one astern pinging long and short scale. One
astern sounded as if he were making a run on us but never came close.
No charges dropped.

1200 (H) 16-51 N, 120-18 E.

1317 (H) Pinging dropping astern, secured from battle stations.

1505 (H) Periscope depth, nothing in sight.

1520 (H) Lost fast screws bearing 111(T).

1633 (H) With pinging louder than usual sighted mast head and lookout barrel of
probable PC boat bearing 128.5(T).

1708 (H) Lost pinging.

1825 (H) Completed reload.

- 36 -

— page 44 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

23 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
1906 (H) Surfaced 25 miles from coast with Darigayos Point bearing 100(T).
          Stood to SW.

24 DECEMBER 1944
0035 (H) Completed transmission of BLENNY's third dispatch to CTF-71 advising
          of condition of sound heads and of sinking transport. Standing to
          NE at one engine speed with intention of diving about 7 miles off
          beach just south of San Esteban.
0220 (H) Put 2 generators on line to close coast faster.
0348 (H) Slowed to 1 generator, can arrive at desired point prior diving.
0404 (H) (Ship Contact No. 23) 17-17 N, 120-10 E. SJ radar contact on 2
          targets with small thin pips bearing 105(T) distant 14,000 yards.
          These targets tracked at from 1 to 5 knots on courses of from 240 to
          340 and were often within 100 yard range of each other. Decided this
          was a reception committee since they were so small. In the spot we
          intended to patrol, and that it was best to avoid, contact, open the range
          and abandon the idea of patrolling in close today. Insufficient time
          existed before daylight to approach close to the coast in another
          spot. Opened out from contact on 288(T) at 2 engine speed. Targets were
          lost at 22,000 yards the great range being due to there being two of
          them where one would be distinguishable at a much shorter range. Navi-
          gational plot showed targets in same spot between coast and southern end
          of 22 fathom bank off San Esteban. Morning fix showed we had crossed
          about 2 miles inside the 100 fathom curve on this bank on course 288(T) due to a
          NE current of over 1 knot during night.
0500 (H) Changed course to 090(T), west of bank.
0523 (H) Submerged 22 miles west of San Esteban and commenced patrolling 3
          mile east - west line at 60 feet.
1200 (H) 17-25 N, 119-58 E.
1901 (H) Surfaced, patrolling, to SW awaiting moonset before closing coast.
1917 (H) Interference on SJ in general direction of Vigan believed to be CAIMAN.
          Unsuccessfully tried to challenge with SJ.
2330 (H) Changed course to 090(T) standing towards coast with intentions of
          patrolling off San Esteban tomorrow.

25 DECEMBER 1944
0104 (H) 16-58 N, 120-03 E. Weak APR contact on 152 Mc; nearest land Darigayos
          Point bearing 116(T) distant 18 miles. Believe this to be on a plane
          and to seaward as when headed seaward reception is weakest.

- 37 -

— page 45 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

25 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0522 (H) Submerged with Tamurung Point bearing 090(T) distant 4 miles
         patrolling about 2 miles off beach on north-south line from San
         Esteban Point to a point about 3 miles south.

0618 (H) Sighted many native bancas and fishing craft under sail and at least
         4 loads of unhusked coconuts being sailed north.

0834 (H) (Ship Contact No. 24) 17-18 N, 120-24 E. Sighted 60 ton lugger with
         one mast up, no sail, under power standing north about ½ mile off
         beach. Had dinghy lashed athwartships astern. Looked like native
         craft.

1200 (H) 17-17 N, 120-24 E.

1349 (H) (Ship contact No. 25) 17-18 N, 120-24 E. Sighted boat with zero angle
         on bow to southward about 2 miles off beach with most unusually, flat
         top looking silhouette. Identified craft as 100 ton launch with flat
         canopy rigged, covered with shrubbery camouflage and with about 5
         men in khaki on top of canopy. A Japanese merchant flag was painted
         on bow. Sound picked up light screws at about 4000 yards making 155
         rpm. Launch tracked at 6 knots.

1411 (H) Stations for battle surface while sizing up situation.

1423 (H) Secured from battle surface stations having decided not to attack
         for following reasons.

         (1) Although no southbound traffic from Vigan had been sighted, any
         northbound traffic from San Fernando intending to anchor at Vigan
         overnight should soon heave in sight. To attack this launch
         would ensure no attack on such traffic.

         (2) Disclosure of position at this point would tend to reduce possi-
         bility of making surprise attack on torpedo targets at this point
         during coming days.

         (3) Size of target did not warrant jeopardizing possibilities of 1
         and 2.

         (4) A gun attack at this point, 2 miles south of San Esteban Point,
         might have lasted long enough for target to have ducked into
         San Esteban Harbor where possibility existed of there being shore
         defenses. Launch stood north and passed San Esteban towards
         Vigan. Launch looked as if it were probably used for transporting
         personnel. It looked similar to the "680" boats that used to
         operate between Manila and Cavite.

1442 (H) (Ship contact No. 26) 17-19 N, 120-24 E. Sighted northbound lugger
         under power hugging beach with no mast up. Looked like native craft
         of about 50 tons.

- 38 -

— page 46 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

25 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.
1547 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 74) 17-13 N, 120-24 E. Sighted plane best
          resembling "Kate" northbound, over coast distant 2 miles, elevation
          5° Plane was sweeping left and right as if patrolling 100 fathom
          curve.

1908 (H) Surfaced 6 miles west of San Esteban Point standing west and SW in
          bright half moon directly overhead.

1934 (H) Interference on SJ to westward. Challenged unsuccessfully. This
          interference gradually worked to southward off Vigan, not quite like our SJ
          bearing about 230(T). Believed it was one of own submarines. Also
          had interference on SJ to northward off Vigan, not quite like our SJ
          produces. However it could be CALMAN. Unsuccessfully challenged.

2046 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 75) 17-13 N, 120-08. SJ contact on plane
          bearing 357(T) distant 3900 yards, decreased rapidly to 7800 yards
          bearing 351(T) and then opened rapidly to 23,900 yards at 001(T)
          where it disappeared as we dove.

2048 (H) Submerged.

2058 (H) Surfaced.

2225 (H) Sighted flak bursts in direction of Vigan.

2330 (H) SJ contact on aircraft probably same as above bearing 312(T) distant
          27,750 yards which disappeared bearing 298(T) distant 28,900 yards.

2342 (H) Changed course to 090(T) to head back towards coast at one engine
          speed.

26 DECEMBER 1944
0019 (H) (Ship contact No. 27) 17-13 N, 120-14 E. Sighted two small boats
          resembling launches or flat topped sampans bearing 161(T) distant
          about 6000 yards. Reversed course to put objects astern. Radar
          got small pip on nearest one at 5850 yards. Commenced tracking and
          found sampans were on course 070(T) speed 8 knots.

0024 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 76) 17-13 N, 120-14 E. SJ contact on plane
          bearing 161(T), distant 1250 on port quarter lost pip and shortly
          thereafter regained it at 3,500 yards on port bow and tracked plane
          out 14000 yards on a northerly course.

0034 (H) SJ picked up plane again range about 3000 yards closing slowly.

0036 (H) Sight contact with plane with 9 x 63 binoculars elevation 20°, angle
          on bow 20 starboard, range 3,400 yards - submerged. Had rectangular
          wing and apparently one engine. Got interference on SJ when plane
          was inside of 6000 yards, probably from spark plugs of plane.

0134 (H) Surfaced.

- 39 -

— page 47 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

26 DECEMBER 1944

0438 (H) Interference on SJ in direction of San Fernando.

0535 (H) Submerged on course 110(T) 15 miles west of Santa Cruz.

0642 (H) Changed course to 130(T) to head for Santa Cruz.

0700 (H) Secured QB sound head rigging it in and shut door as shaft is so
bent, rotation causes excessive leakage of gland at periscope depth.
It is feared operation may so damage the packing as to prevent leak
being stopped.

1200 (H) 17-03 N, 120-22 E.

1505 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 77) Sighted "Kate" toward land, southbound
flying low, distant 4 miles.

1532 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 78) Sighted 3 "Francis" to seaward southbound
flying low in formation at high speed distant about 5 miles.

1602 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 79) 16-51 N, 120-24 E. Sighted single south-
bound "Francis" to seaward distant about 12 miles, low down.

1630 (H) Changed course to 315(T) opening out from 100 fathom curve for
surfacing.

1901 (H) With APR out faint contact on 80 Mc at

1902 (H) Surfaced 7 miles west of Sevilla. (Ship contact No. 28) 17-00 N,
120-20 E. Radar and sight contact on patrol vessel of about PC size
bearing 062(T), distant 9800 yards, angle on bow about 70 starboard.
Put contact astern and opened out at 2 engine speed until lost on
radar at about 16,000 yards, tracked at 6 knots on southerly
courses and apparently was hugging 100 fathom curve.

1926 (H) Changed course to 180(T) at 1 engine speed to patrol off coast and see
if patrol was following or preceding a convoy.

1938 (H) Changed course to 090(T) to close coast and regain contact with patrol,
to see whether he had continued south.

1941 (H) Received message from CAIMAN saying convoy north of Vigan standing
south at 12 knots hugging coast this afternoon at 1530.

1949 (H) Regained contact with patrol bearing 090(T) range about 13,000 closing
in bright ½ moon. Put patrol astern and went to flank speed on four.
Patrol closed to 11,300 yards at which time he was tracking on our
bow. Believe he may have sighted us when we surfaced and have been
playing possum or possibly sighted smoke haze from our engines as we
paralleled coast. Moon was extremely bright and high overhead and it
may have been possible to sight our silhouette from 13,000 yards,
although unlikely.

- 40 -

— page 48 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

26 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1954 (H) Patrol dropping astern and tracking with 30 starboard angle on bow;
         falling off in the direction in which our smoke is drifting.
2015 (H) Lost contact at 15,800 yards.
2038 (H) Changed course to 045(T) and commenced cutting back toward coast to
         northward of direction in which patrol headed.
2040 (H) Changed course to 090(T), so as to close coast and patrol submerged
         close to 100 fathom curve in moonlight until moonset at about 0330
         as "CAIMAN'S" convoy may be continuing south of Vigan along 100
         fathom curve in moonlight. If they had continued at stated speed
         they would have preceded the patrol down the coast just before we
         surfaced and in the poor visibility following sunset they might have
         gotten by before we surfaced. However, believe such a coincidence
         unlikely and believe it more likely that hearing "CAIMAN'S" trans-
         missions they are proceeding more slowly and cautiously or will anchor
         at Vigan overnight.
2150 (H) Submerged about 6 miles SW of Condon Point patrolling on and un-
         intentionally within 100 fathom curve.

27 DECEMBER 1944

0000 (H) Changed course to 270(T) as we seem to have been set into beach and
         fathometer cannot get a sounding on a single ping.
0119 (H) (Ship Contact No. 29) 17-09 N, 120-21 E. Periscope contact with craft
         of about PC size bearing 026(T) range about 4000 yards angle on bow
         90 starboard. Had just been about to surface near San Esteban
         beach when periscope sighted and radar verified contact on PPI with-
         out radar depth checking positions on PPI. Moon was so bright
         shears could be seen at 4000 yards it was believed. Watched
         PC stand south at slow speed. JP could hear only a faint noise level
         on that bearing. Standing clear of coast as we must get up and charge
         batteries.
0357 (H) Surfaced 8.5 miles west of Condon Point on course 270(T).
0420 (H) Commenced working to north and east to dive near San Esteban as
         figure all this patrol activity indicates the promise of shipping
         along the 100 fathom curve.
0521 (H) Faint APR contact on 185 Mc.
0523 (H) Fleeting SJ contact at 355(T) distant 20,000 yards as from plane.
0524 (H) Submerged 6.5 miles off coast SW of San Esteban standing towards
         coast.
0830 (H) Patrolling on edge of 100 fathom curve between San Esteban Point and
         Santiago cove. Many fishing boat contacts.

- 41 -

— page 49 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

27 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1045 (H)
(Ship Contact No. 30) 17-18 N, 120-24 E. Sighted masts of #13 class
AM and other PC or SC boat beyond
8000 yards, angle on bow 60 starboard.

1046 (H)
Battle stations torpedo while sizing up situation. AM tracked at
10 knots on 015(T). Decided that no other ships were with these two
and that they were merely patroling about 5 miles off 100 fathom
curve. Considered it poor tactics to attack two hunters when they
were so small and more worthy contacts might develop.

1120 (H)
Secured from battle stations when seen that PC's were passing well
clear. Identification of type of AM was positive.

1200 (H)
(Ship Contact No. 31) 17-18 N, 120-23 E. Sighted smoke bearing 168(T),
just to right of Candon Point.

1250 (H)
Changed course to 090(T) to get inside 100 fathom curve as we were 1
mile to west of it. The 100 fathom curve at this point is 1800 yards
off land. Had previously decided that the best way to attack a
convoy hugging the coast was to get inside the 100 fathom curve so
that we would be inside the escorts and at such a short range from
the targets that we couldn't miss. Had we been there on the previous
attack on the transport we would stood much less chance of being
picked up by the escort.

1315 (H)
Sighted first screen, DE-UN-1 rounding Candon Point.

1330 (H)
Changed course to 190(T), 200 yards inside 100 fathom curve.

1338 (H)
Four ships rounded Candon Point close to reef plus two more escorts.
Took pictures of them with about 30° angle on bow. From later looks
they were identified as follows:

1 medium AP MFM about 4,500 tons
1 medium AP MFM about 4,500 tons but with each mast on top of goal
post.
2 medium, new construction tankers with small funnel aft, of about
7000 tons - All mast were shorter than shown in pictures. All ships
were fairly lightly loaded. All ships were covered topside with troops
in olive, green kakhi.
1 DD, Fubuki class, Amagiri group, rear escort.
1 Unidentified small escort abreast formation, probably PC or DE.
1 DE-UN-1, first escort.

Several months ago an ONI weekly had photographs of this new type of
tanker. As nearly as can be remembered these AO's resembled it.
Formation which had previously been two columns abreast with AP and
AO inboard towards coast and AO, AP outboard resolved itself into one
column AP, AO, AP with one AO yawing to seaward of others about 1000
yards. Escorts were all to seaward of convoy with leading one about
2500 yards on port bow of leading ship, second one abreast convoy and
DD bringing up astern. Decided to head outboard of this seaward
tanker and at

- 42 -

— page 50 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

27 DECEMBER 1944 Cont.

1350 (H) Changed course to 210(T). Running silently.

1354 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 80) Sighted "Rufe" patrolling on convoy's port
          bow low down and with 25° angle on starboard bow.

1357 (H) Outboard AO has zero angle on bow, range about 3200 yards so came to
          240(T).

1403 (H) Outboard AO has slipped into column as number 2 or 3 don't know which.
          Changed course to 180(T). Intention has been to fire a full nest
          astern with low parallax shots at second ship and split the forward
          nest at the 3rd and 4th ship high parallax shots. JP has heavy screws
          making 100 RPM .

1406 (H) Leading escort well to seaward with 90 starboard angle on bow.

1409 (H) Swinging left to 140(T) to give bow tubes less gyro. AO target had
          been tracked at 5 knots on about 010(T). Navigational range to
          reefs at this point was 2200 yards and a good cut had been taken 10
          minutes before. Two ranges in low parallax were taken as first AO
          drew very close with the 800 and a 700 yard range. These two
          ranges did not check with the 2200 yard generated range possibly for
          2 reasons:

          (1) because the AO that had been out at the side may have came into
          line as the third ship in column whereas the 800 yard range was taken
          on the second ship in column, an exactly similar ship in column. The
          change of formation to one column necessitated slowing by the ships in
          the outboard column. At any rate, TDC speed was boosted to 8 knots
          because of this and because of the 100 RPM count. The change in
          speed was no doubt due to the shifting from a two column line abreast
          formation to a column formation the AO being the last one to get into
          column had had to slow. Once the AO in the column had speeded up.
          the two ranges in low power, a high power range was taken to check
          the set up as plot had jumped to 10 knots as a result of the low
          power ranges and TDC was reluctant to go that high having checked so
          well at 5 knots previously. Up to this point the Commanding Officer
          was proud of the approach. In a glassy smooth sea, and long swell
          he was 1500 yards inside the escorts. He knew where they were. He
          had purposely let the leading target go by so as to concentrate on
          the 2 AO's and the last AP. He could see troops lining the rails
          on all ships and so close that in high power he could see but a small
          portion of the length of the ship. The angle on the bow of the first
          target was near 90° and he intended to shoot 4 fish aft at this target
          with a low parallax shot, three forward at the 2nd AO and three at the
          last AP.

          At this point with troop laden valuable targets going by fast the
          Commanding Officer submits his next immediate action as being a
          blunder so colossaly costly as to rank with any ever made in U.S.
          Submarine warfare.

          (Attack No. 4) His final high power range was sung out as "Two"

- 43 -

— page 51 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

27 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

                 which was in reality two large telemeter divisions or eight small
                 ones. This gave a range of 2900 yards. The TDC operator demurred.
                 The Assistant Approach Officer asked to check that. The Commanding
                 Officer raised the periscope again, checked it and said "Two". The
                 range was given as 2900 yards. The Assistant Approach Officer said
                 he believed the actual range was about 1500 yards
                 and an average fictitious run of about 3650 yards. The Commanding
                 Officer unthinkingly, as he was concerned with shooting aft quickly
                 before gyros forward got too large, said"yes, use it and commence
                 shooting."

1412-45(H)       Three fish were fired aft, the 4th not being fired because there
                 was no solution light due to the fictitious long run. Average gyro
                 aft was 247, spread was 3/4 R, 2 1/2 R, interval 10 seconds,
                 average track 120 port. A new set up was obtained on the second AO
                 in high power and at
                 and the same range mistake made.

1414-05(H)       Three torpedoes forward were fired with an average gyro of 259,
                 spread of 0, 2 1/2 R, 2 1/2 L, interval of 10 seconds, average track 110
                 port, and average fictitious run of about 2700 yards. It is be-
                 lieved this range was about 1800 yards. A new set up was obtained
                 on the AO, last target and last ship in column; the same range
                 mistake made and commencing at

1415-20(H)       Two torpedoes were fired (one not being fired due to an interlock
                 failure). Average gyro 317, average track 90 port, average fictitious
                 run about 2200 yards. It is believed actual range was about 1300
                 yards. Rigged for depth charge and at

1416-42(H)       Heard one sharp explosion which sounded exactly similar to a torpedo
                 detonation followed by two muffled explosions. Believe this was a
                 hit in third target (medium AP) as determined by later plot of set
                 up. From actual position of own ship all torpedoes were at least
                 900 yards from beach at time of explosion. Shortly after this
                 explosion, looked at targets in low power. Second ship in column,
                 the first AO, had brownish smoke arising from its direction but this
                 may have been from its funnel. Swung around and saw the 2nd and 3rd
                 escorts circling and heard them pinging on long scale. Commenced
                 evasion along edge of 100 fathom curve at periscope depth making
                 frequent short periscope exposures to keep track of escorts and to
                 take cuts.

1535 (H)         Secured from battle stations running normally. Proceeded a distance
                 of 4 miles along edge of or just inside 100 fathom curve until 1.5
                 miles SW of Candon Point where took a southwesterly course and went
                 to 2/3 speed. DD was only escort in sight then and was a good
                 8000 yards astern pinging on the edge of the 100 fathom curve showing
                 various angles on bow. At one time the DD was observed flashing his

— page 52 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

27 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1627 (H)         Bearing of pinging indicates D is opening out from 100 fathom curve
                 but is not visible through periscope.

1840 (H)         Surfaced 10 miles SW of Candon Point while moon is still behind
                 clouds with faint pinging to NE. Opening out from coast at full
                 speed on 1 generator and auxiliary. Tremendous fire with high flares
                 on beach astern in direction of Candon
                 Point.

1912 (H)         First of series of interferences on SJ radar to SW believe to be
                 CAIMAN but she would or could not answer our repeated challenges.
                 Wanted desperately to contact her and plan method of concentrated
                 attack on this convoy tomorrow but first had to get off contact
                 report before calling her on Wolf Pack frequency.

2046 (H)         Cleared contact report to CTF 71 after some difficulty establishing
                 communications. BLENNY's four. Immediately called CAIMAN on Wolf
                 Pack frequency and started sending her contact report and message
                 telling her we would dive off Salanague Island in morning and
                 suggesting that she dive off Pinget Island in morning or vice versa
                 night at Vigan. A night chase was very doubtful that they would
                 could not overtake this convoy before they cleared CTF 71 areas and
                 travel on at night. Received no acknowledgement or reply from
                 CAIMAN after transmitting latter message words thrice.

2205 (H)         Completed transmission of both wolfpack frequency messages. Changed
                 course to north and at

2300 (H)         to 025(T) with intention of gaining latitude of Salamague Island
                 and then heading east to dive close to it.

2300 (H)         SJ contact for fleeting moment bearing 020(T) distant 20,000 yards
                 probably aircraft.

2326 (H)         Received orders to take position on scouting line off Paulaig Point.
                 Reluctantly changed course to 180(T) heading for new area. Believe
                 it unlikely that in this new position 10 miles off the coast that
                 there will be any action and we stood an excellent chance of getting
                 into a good position on convoy tomorrow with the hope of partly
                 atoning for today's disgrace.

2330 (H)         Changed course to 225(T) to cover area slightly to west.

2356 (H)         Changed speed to 2 engine speed.

2359 (H)         Changed course to 200 to scout closer to coast.

28 DECEMBER 1944

0300 (H)         Changed course to 150(T) to close coast.

- 45 -

— page 53 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

28 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0530 (H) Submerged on course 165(T) 14 miles west of Cape Bolinao.

1200 (H) 16-07 N, 119-37 E.

1250 (H) Changed course to 180(T) being 10 miles off coast.

1850 (H) 15-55 N, 119-35 E. APR contact on 84 Mc very weak and presumed to
        be land based radar. Rotates once every 4 minutes.

1939 (H) Surfaced and stood south towards new position.

1940 (H) Weak interference on SJ radar to westward, probably next boat on
        line.

2032 (H) APR contact on 158 Mc steady.

2116 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 81) 15-30 N, 119-42 E. SJ contact on plane
        bearing 205(T) distant 7,700 yards. Submerged, last range as radar
        went under 3100 yards. Plot showed plane on course 140(T) which
        would have passed us 1800 yards on plane's beam.

2145 (H) In position on scouting line patrolling from position to 10 miles
        westward.

2214 (H) Surfaced and resumed patrol.

2224 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 82) 15-29 N, 119-41 E. SJ contact at 332(T)
        bearing 275(T) distant 30,700 yards accompanied by interference on that bearing.
        Got another bearing of 275(T) distant about 32,000 yards 5.5 minutes
        later which plotted a course of 205(T) at about 200 knots.

29 DECEMBER 1944

0111 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 83) 15-30 N, 119-35 E. SJ contact on plane
        bearing 212(T), distant 7,750 yards - submerged, last bearing as
        radar went under being 171(T), distant 5,150 yards which plotted
        plane's course 085(T) speed 150 knots, he not being headed right at
        us.

0148 (H) Surfaced and resumed patrolling in bright moonlight.

0507 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 84) 15-29 N, 119-36 E. SJ contact bearing
        142(T) distant 8,000 yards - submerged. Plot showed plane course
        052(T), speed 110 knots headed right at us from the beam with moon
        30° on planes port bow as he came in. JOOW and lookout had seen
        plane's exhaust against low cloud background as he came in at an
        elevation of about 1/2°. How many of these contacts are our own recco
        planes is questionable. It is believed some are, particularly the
        one at 2224 accompanied by SJ interference. At any rate if there
        are recco planes here we ought to be informed of it and a listening
        frequency at least arranged for so that we know that they are friendly

- 46 -

— page 54 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

29 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

and can know what they sight when they sight it. Our orders say
patrol surfaced if feasible. Here, 10 miles off the coast, in
bright moonlight, it is scarcely feasible even at night particularly
if bothered by fast radar equipped planes of own forces. A message
came in this morning saying that as of 2 January this is to be an
air surface zone. We have a feeling it already is.

0654 (H) Sighted heavy black smoke as from an oil fire in direction of
         Candelaria. At 55 feet no more information available.

1200 (H) 15-29 N, 119-41 E.

1847 (H) Surfaced with nearest land near Paulaung Point bearing 094(T) distant
         43,000 yards, patrolling from station, 10 miles to SW on alternate
         065, 245 courses zigzagging under bright 3/4 moon.

1943 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 85) 15-25 N, 119-35 E. SJ contact on plane at
         077(T), distant 24,000 yards.

1945 (H) Last contact at 063(T) distant 23,800; plane is apparently circling
         our assigned station.

2200 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 86) 15-32 N, 119-37 E. SJ contact on plane
         bearing 072(T), distant 20150 yards last contact at 050(T), distant
         22,500 giving plane's course 340(T), speed approximately 150 knots.
         experienced interference all over scope. This plane has 10 Cm
         radar and consider him to be a comparatively well mannered fellow
         countryman on a recco mission.

2350 (H) Sighted several bursts of flak in direction of Hermana Mayor Island.
         The recco plane apparently is drawing fire.

30 DECEMBER 1944

0231 (H) APR contact on 180 Mc 15-29 N, 119-43 E.

0232 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 86) 15-29 N, 119-43 E. SJ contact on plane
         bearing 283(T) distant 14,400 yards and plotted plane on course 165(T)
         speed 135 knots.

0234 (H) Sighted plane when bearing 258(T) distant 13,250 elevation angle 3°
         with large port angle on bow. Looked like large bomber.

0237 (H) Lost plane on radar at 17,850 yards.

0425 (H) Sighted more bursting flak in direction of Hermana Mayor Island.

0436 (H) Fleeting SJ aircraft contact bearing 335(T) distant 24,000 yards.

0454 (H) Fleeting SJ aircraft contact bearing 251(T) distant 19,800 yards
         preceded 12 minutes before by flash of interference on SJ at 275(T).

- 47 -

— page 55 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

30 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0530 (H) Decided to see if it is feasible to stay surfaced today. Visibility
           is excellent but have a high alto stratus overcast.

0625 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 87) 15-29 N, 119-32 E. Periscope watch sighted
           large plane bearing 090(T), distant 15 miles on northerly course
           elevation angle 5°.

0630 (H) Exercised 20mm on floating oil drum.

0636 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 88) 15-28 N, 119-31 E. Sighted Liberator
           bearing 270(T), distant 8 miles elevation 6°, angle on bow 45 star-
           board, on northerly course.

0638 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 89) 15-28 N, 119-31 E. Sighted "Oscar" bearing
           150°, angle on bow zero. Submerged
           watching him until periscope under
           was still zero. His course looked
           like it might be an intercepting
           the "Oscar" had better gain altitude
           course to the Liberator but if so
           fast.

0650 (H) Patrolling at 60 feet resigned to staying down as believe continued
           sighting by Jap aircraft can lead to no good. We won't sight any-
           thing and / or they may come diving out of the clouds where the SJ
           won't pick them up and only a brief warning can be obtained from
           lookouts.

1200 (H) 15-28 N, 119-31 E.

1255 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 90) 15-25 N, 119-38 E. Sighted formation of
           10 or more "Frances" bearing 270(T) distant 1 mile elevation 5° on
           course 140(T). Strangely enough SJ experienced peculiar effect, a
           kind of blanking out of sound conditions like a long drawn out ping
           at the same time the bombers drummed by at low altitude.

1345 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 91) 15-29 N, 119-41 E. Sighted "Frances"
           bearing 043(T) distant 7 miles elevation 4° on course 345(T).

1832 (H) Surfaced with Palauig Point Light bearing 100(T) distant 14 miles,
           patrolling from 15 to 25 miles off coast on 065 and 245(T) at one
           engine speed.

31 DECEMBER 1944

0240 (H) 15-26 N, 119-30 E. APR contact on 210 Mc. apparently rotating and
           in direction of Cape Bolinao. Decided to close coast in direction of
           Hermana Menor Island in view of probable traffic hugging the coast
           today. Consider position we intend to go to within meaning of
           "close" to our station being within 13 miles of it and covering the
           100 fathom coast route where all traffic so far observed has been
           travelling.

                                     - 48 -

— page 56 —
U.S.S. LENNY (SS324)

31 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0521 (H) (Ship Contact No. 32) 15-44 N, 119-41 E. Radar pip bearing 042(T)
distant 19,000 yards which plotted in channel 2 miles south of
Hermana Major Island. Had 10 Cm radar interference on this bearing
and size of pip indicated destroyer or smaller ship. Submerged
with Hermana Menor bearing 060(T) distant 10 miles, although we
desired to close coast more for identification in 100 fathom curve.
This apparently radar equipped ship probably wouldn't pick us up
yet for awhile (estimated Jap 10 Cm range on submarine 16,000 yards),
still he would probably detect our stronger radar interference on his
screen shortly if he had not already. Steering 080(T) to head for
identation in 100 fathom curve just south of Hermana Menor Island.

0620 (H) JP has long scale pinging bearing 081(T) in direction of point we
want to be in.

0622 (H) Sighted funnel of small vessel bearing 060(T) presumably pinger and
previous radar contact.

0629 (H) (Ship Contact No. 33) 15-40 N, 119-44 E. Sighted 2 masts and funnel
of medium AP bearing 133(T) angle on bow 90 port estimated range
22,000 yards.

0630 (H) JP has heavy screws bearing 142(T).

0631 (H) Sighted DE bearing 155(T) estimated range 8,000 yards with 20 port
angle on bow making 270 turns and pinging.

0633 (H) Should have gone to full speed and gone deep at this point to get
ahead of escort and close to targets but thought we could hold this
course 080(T), pass astern of escort, and then speed up as he seemed
to be far ahead on bow of leading ship thus avoiding chance of being
pinged on. Could now see 2 masts of two more ships astern of first
one sighted, bearing 132(T) and 154(T) looking like a large AO like
Tonan Maru (but without seeing double stack) angle on bow 45 port,
and medium AP. Battle stations torpedo.

0635 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 92) 15-40 N, 119-44 E. Sighted "Rufe"
patrolling ahead of targets.

0646 (H) Running silent. A fourth ship resembling German Neptun last in
column, engines aft, and with clipper bow, is now in sight astern of
last AP. Also a tug is visible forward of the leading AP. Likewise
something that looks like a DE is well out on the beam of the leading
ship and a small vessel like a MTB is dead ahead, well ahead and on
port bow of leading ship but inboard of the DE first sighted. This
DE is constantly changing course showing from 60 port to 40 starboard
angle on bow.

0708 (H) Near DE flashing light on foremast swinging towards us at about
3500 yards but still pinging on long scale.

- 49 -

— page 57 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

31 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

0714 (H) Changed course to 130 to head for DE to minimize angle on bow and
         pass astern as he now has 25 port angle on bow.

0718 (H) Swinging right more as DE has starboard angle on bow now and is
         getting close. Made two remaining torpedoes ready forward with
         depth set 2 feet to shoot at DE as it appears we are going to be
         unable to avoid DE or to get into target as leading ship is bearing
         about 080(T) angle on bow about 90 range at least 5000 yards.

0726-30(H) (Attack No. 5) With DE showing 15 starboard angle on bow range 900
         yards, speed set 11 knots gyro about 30° right fired two torpedoes.
         DE was then seen swinging towards us and as second torpedo left tube
         depth set 2 feet to shoot at DE although TDC still generated about
         15 starboard. We had been unable to swing right for a zero gyro
         as fast as his bearing drew right. Force 3 sea was not conducive
         to proper running with shallow setting but we were firing down swell
         which was less likely to cause broaching than up swell.

0729-30 (H) Flooded negative, all ahead full, and then right full rudder and went
         to 240 feet shooting a false target as we went down. DE pinging on
         short scale.

0730-34 (H) to

0731-51 (H) 8 depth charges and 2 aircraft bombs not too close above and astern.

0737 (H) Fast screws overhead heard through hull.

0739 (H) Fast screws overhead.

0739-10(H) One depth charge, not close, above, and astern. On suggestion of
         Executive Officer, Lt. Cdr. H.E. Miller, USN, that very likely the
         DE got a sounding on us as he went over, increased depth to 325'.

0749-54 (H) to

0753-58 (H) 6 depth charges some close and estimated to be within 50 yards but
         all above and astern.

0830 (H) 26 more depth charges all shallower than our depth. One DE dropped
         the first 28 and seemed pretty efficient. The remainder were dropped
         by another vessel and were not very close, probably due interfering
         depth charge wakes. The idea apparently was to keep us below peri-
         scope depth. There was no damage.

0930 (H) At periscope depth, (aircraft contact No. 93) 15-37 N, 119-41 E.
         1 "Rufe" sighted on NE course low down distant about 2 miles, pre-
         sumably searching.

1020 (H) Sighted "Rufe" again.

1200 (H) 15-34 N, 119-35 E.

- 50 -

— page 58 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

31 DECEMBER 1944 Cont'd.

1631 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 94) 15-23 N, 119-28 E. From 1631 (H) to 1724
           (H) sighted "Frances" 6 times on as many different bearings around
           the compass, low down, searching, and within a few miles.

1838 (H) Surfaced 15 miles west of Palaulg Light on course 090(T) patrolling
           from 15 to 25 miles off coast. Did not send contact report because
           there were other boats in vicinity who could not have overtaken the
           convoy before they arrived at their station on scouting line to west and south
           and could not leave station to chase and even had they been able to
           the convoy before they arrived at their
           next most likely port of call - San Fernando.

2038 (H) (Ship contact No. 34) 15-22 N, 119-38 E. SJ radar contact bearing
           077(T) distant 7,250 yards. Appeared out of rain squall and assuming
           it to be a plane, submerged. Range did not change appreciably as we
           went under. No sound of screws on that bearing. Could have been
           sampan.

2135 (H) Surfaced and set course 235(T) at 2 engine speed orders having been
           received to leave area and proceed to Fremantle.

1 JANUARY 1945

0407 (H) Interference on SJ bearing 241(T).

0510 (H) Exchanged recognition signals with HAMMERHEAD.

0725 (H) (Ship contact No. 35) 14-06 N, 117-41 E. Sighted HAMMERHEAD bearing
           249(T) on parallel course. First radar range at 14,250 yards.

0950 (H) Overtook and passed HAMMERHEAD. We are keying SD and sweeping with
           SJ and APR as sky is overcast with frequent rain squalls.

1200 (H) 13-48 N, 116-40 E.

1444 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 95) 13-18 N, 116-04 E. Submerged for "Mavis"
           bearing 285(T) elevation 1° distant about 14,000 yards, angle on bow
           zero.

1449 (H) Watched plane disappear to eastward through periscope.

1458 (H) Surfaced, continuing zigzagging on 235(T) at 2 engine speed.

2 JANUARY 1945

0000 (H) Changed course to 225(T).

0625 (H) (Ship Contact No. 36) 11-12 N, 113-08 E. SJ radar contact bearing
           312(T) distant 20,000 yards. Headed for and commenced tracking.
           Target plotted as if it were circling or milling around until at
           0700 sighted two masted transport resembling ship,bearing 020(T)
           with angle on bow that gave it an easterly course. Also sighted
           escort 2200 yards ahead and 1 about 1600 yards asternof AP. Target
           now tracking on 050(T) at 12 knots.
           - 51 -

— page 59 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

2 JANUARY 1945 Cont'd.

0709 (H) Opened out to from 25,000 to 30,000 yards tracking by periscope
steering various courses at full speed making end around on target's
starboard flank. With force 3 seas 15.5 knots pit maximum speed
with full rung up got 17 but also considerable
smoke so except for about 2 hours of run used full.

0737 (H) Called CAIMAN and SEALION on Wolfpack frequency. Answer from
CAIMAN only so transmitted contact report to her telling her
position, course, and speed of AP and 2 escorts. Received "Roger"
from CAIMAN and heard her transmit this to SEALION.

0910 (H) Escorts are now on target's beam or slightly ahead of beam.

1200 (H) 12-04 N, 114-06 E.

1305 (H) Ahead of target steering 235(T) at 1/3 speed.

1338 (H) Target in sight apparently constant helming which verified previous
periscope observations. Looks as if he swings 30° each side of
055(T).

1342 (H) Submerged to 50 feet.

1351 (H) Battle stations torpedo.

1400 (H) Escorts on either beam of target zigzagging with target. Hear new
type of pinging, very long ping.

1410 (H) JP has heavy screws at from 135 - 144 rpm. Now have ailing QB sound
head rigged out to try ping range in spite of badly leaking gland.
Running silently.

1419 (H) Changed course to 240(T) to get more nearly on track of target as
he seems to be drawing slightly right.

1422 (H) Flooded tubes 9 & 10.

1425 (H) Swinging to 245 as target has 35 starboard angle on bow and escort
to left has nearly zero angle on bow.

1427 (H) Left full rudder commenced swinging to 150(T) for stern shot, escort
has 20 port angle on bow, target 50 starboard.

1432 (H) Single ping range on target, no return. Took periscope range of
1180 yards and at

1433-40 (H) (Attack No. 6) Fired 9 and at

1433-50 (H) Fired 10 (last torpedoes). On firing, near escort had 90 port angle
on bow, range 500-1000 yards. Commenced retiring on reverse of
target's course at periscope depth taking frequent looks to see
what developed. Depth set was 10 feet, average gyro 164, average
track 110, average run 1300.

- 52 -

— page 60 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

2 JANUARY 1945 Cont'd.
1441-25 (H) First explosion, believed to be depth charge. Far escort must have
heard torpedoes running, and started to drop depth charges - far
away; could see him coming back and circling. From this time to

1441-39 (H) to

1517-00 (H) heard 6 presumably depth charge explosions which were over 4000
yards away and sounded shallow from fall of water. Both these escorts
were destroyers with widely separated narrow high stacks entirely unlike any Jap DD ever heard of. The only thing
Jap about them observed was that foremost was of light tripod con-
struction and had 3 white bands around it. This tripod
was probably added when Japs took them over from Germans and refitted
them. While tracking on surface, the near escort had been observed
to have what was thought to be but one stack but, inasmuch as "Wolf"
had a larger higher stack for-ward this is, understandable when viewed
from a distance. It was not until close in to firing position that
angle on bow was sufficiently large to clearly show both stacks. At
this point it was realized that these were either a new type of DD, or
escort, or else something foreign but there was no time to digest
torpedoes only aft. Furthermore the
force 3 sea made it questionable whether a 6 foot setting would
hold its depth. It is believed that the target was lightly loaded
and that either one or both the torpedoes ran underneath or constant
helm plan was improperly advanced on TDC. Speed used had been that
obtained by radar tracking, a 7 knot surface end around, and turn
count, and was considered very accurate. Target had lines of
Argentine Maru with same type of rounded bridge front. However,
sound said he had single screw as small as Ukusima Maru but
funnel must have been cut down to the proportions of the Argentine
Maru. There was a set of individual kingposts aft of superstructure.

1525 (H) Last destroyer out of sight.

1549 (H) Surfaced on course 240(T) at 2 engine speed. Did not attempt to
trail for following reasons:
(1) We could not have closed to within radar or sight range before
dark.
(2) If target zigged we would have failed to regain contact anyway.
(3) CAIMAN was assumed close to us and we could give her as good
information as we had.
(4) Mists, rain and clouds prevented giving accurate fixes had we
regained contact after dark.

Transmitted composition, course, speed and results of our attacks to
CAIMAN and HAMMERHEAD on Wolf Pack frequency. Both receipted for it.
SEALION was called but did not answer.

- 53 -

— page 61 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

2 JANUARY 1945 Cont'd.
1908 (H) Received receipt for contact report sent to CTF 71.
2044 (H) (Ship Contact No. 37) 11-20 N, 114-20 E. Interference on SJ bearing
           210(T); exchanged recognition signals with HAMMERHEAD who told us she
           had been in 1700 predicted position of convoy and had not sighted
           them. Rain squalls existing could have accounted for that.
2220 (H) Sighted HAMMERHEAD at 2,200 yards range bearing 263(T). Engrossment
           with communications on SJ allowed this "surprise" sight contact.
2352 (H) Lost SJ interference of HAMMERHEAD at estimated range of about 21
           miles, about the same as that at which it was picked up.

3 JANUARY 1945
0530 (H) Changed course to 220(T) zigzagging and using SD, SJ and periscope
           watch.
0641 (H) Changed course to 203(T).
1200 (H) 9-09 N, 111-35 E.
1924 (H) Hove to converting fuel ballast tanks #3 and #5 to main ballast tanks.
2150 (H) Topside conversion completed; resumed base course 203(T) at 2 engine
           speed. Conversion added about .7 kts at 2 engine speed.

4 JANUARY 1945
0034 (H) Submerged for trim dive and to clean out #3 and #5 Main Ballast Tanks.
0102 (H) Surfaced on course 232(T).
1200 (H) 5-50 N, 108-38 E.
1520 (H) Sighted North Natoena Island bearing 189(T) distant about 32 miles.
           Had decided to use passage west of North Natoena because despatches
           had stated some boat sighted 5 miles SW of Great Natoena which could
           indicate possibility of minefield in the latter's vicinity.
1830 (H) Changed course to 200(T).
2015 (H) 3 generators on propulsion as wish to complete passage between KaJoe
           Ara and Mondarik Island before daylight. Making 17 knots.
2300 (H) 4 generators on propulsion. With safety and negative blown (during
           darkness only) make 19.5 kts at 80/90.

5 JANUARY 1945
0543 (H) Sighted Mondarik Island bearing 135(T) distant 18 miles.

- 54 -

— page 62 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

5 JANUARY 1945 Cont'd.
0700 (H) Answering bells on 2 generators.
1014 (H) Submerged for trim dive.
1024 (H) Surfaced on base course 142(T) on 2 generators.
1200 (H) 00-09 N, 106-42 E.
1300 (H) Crossed equator with Pedjantan Island bearing 070(T) distant 22 miles.
1705 (H) (Ship Contact No. 38) 00-48 S, 107-28 E. U.S. Submarine believed to
           be GABILAN (Covered wagon type with 5"/25 aft) surfaced 700 on our
           port bow at range of 3,350 yards showing us a 90° angle on bow.
1800 (H) 4 generators on propulsion approaching Karimata Strait.
2245 (H) Passed between Florence Adelaide and Ontario Reef.

6 JANUARY 1945
0015 (H) Passed between Flying Fish Reef and Condor Reefs.
0545 (H) Passed 23 miles east of Discovery East Bank.
0730 (H) Slowed to 2 engine speed.
0748 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 96) 05-50 S, 109-45 E. Sighted unidentified
           aircraft bearing 045(T) elevation angle 20°, distant about 4 miles
           on northwesterly course which disappeared into cloud bank abaft our
           beam. Apparently he was enroute to Singapore from Soerabaya. Believe
           we were not sighted.
0815 (H) Set course 100(T) to pass to northward of Bawean Island.
1030 (H) Submerged for trim dive.
1043 (H) Surfaced.
1107 (H) Test fired 40mm and 20mm.
1200 (H) 4-26 S, 110-39 E.
1627 (H) 04-37 S, 111-40 E. Sighted barnacle covered mine with 4 horns and
           lifting pad.
1640 (H) After expending 136 rounds of 20mm and 15 rounds of 30 cal (some of
           which hit) a 20mm hit, exploded mine, fired from range of about 500
           yards. Pieces of mine case flew out about 200 yards.

- 55 -

— page 63 —
U.S.S. PLENNY (SS324)

7 JANUARY 1945

0209 (H) (Ship Contact No. 39) 05-12 S, 113-54 E. Sighted sails of two masted
        100 ton schooner bearing 160(T) distant about 12,000 yards. Radar
        picked up at 8,500 yards. Tracked on 300(T) at 1 knot. Closed to
        3,600 yards to make certain of schooner identity. Assumed vessel was
        native schooner. To have positively identified nationality would have
        had to have gone alongside and boarded which in darkness was not con-
        sidered commensurate with risk. Odds were strongly in favor of her
        being a native craft. Afterwards it is regretted we had not boarded this
        craft. We could have rigged searchlight and used it in tentatively
        identifying crew as we approached close aboard and in illuminating
        craft while boarding.

0250 (H) Sighted Great Salemboe Island to SE.

0500 (H) Changed Course to 090(T) passing about 20 miles south of Great Salemboe
        Island.

0645 (H) Made trim dive.

0719 (H) (Aircraft Contact No. 97) 5-16 S, 114-49 E. Sighted "Dave" bearing
        050(T) distant 6 miles, angle on bow 90 port, elevation 2°. Submerged.

0759 (H) Surfaced.

0801 (H) Lookout sighted plane bearing 345(T) distant 6 miles which was reported
        to be turning towards. Submerged. This latter contact was unverified
        and could have been a bird.

0902 (H) Surfaced.

1200 (H) 5-58 S, 115-32 E.

1800 (H) Changed course to 180(T) speed to 4 engine passing to eastward of
        Kangean Island approaching Lombok Strait.

8 JANUARY 1945

0000 (H) Entered Lombok Strait with SJ interference to NW apparently from
        U.S. Submarine coming through with us (later identified as HOE).

0033 (H) (Ship Contact No. 40) 8-30 S, 115-47 E. SJ contact bearing 248(T)
        distant 8,450 yards. Tracked on 345(T) at 6 knots. Not visible
        through binoculars.

0140 (H) Entered Indian Ocean. Set course 185(T).

0354 (H) Exchanged calls by SJ with HOE who was astern.

0600 (H) Slowed to 2 engine speed, changed course to 190(T).

0610 (H) (Ship Contact No. 41) 10-05 S, 115-33 N. Sighted HOE bearing 353(T)
        distant 22,000 yards.
        - 56 -

— page 64 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

8 JANUARY 1945 Cont'd.

0620 (H) (Ship contact No. 42) 10-07 S, 115-33 N. Sighted unidentified sub-
          marine bearing 234(T), distant 18,000 yards which at
0625 (H) Submarine submerged.
0631 (H) Reversed course to close HOE and inform her of unidentified submarine.
0700 (H) Informed HOE of above information.
0710 (H) Unidentified submarine surfaced and identified herself as HMS SPIRIT.
0716 (H) Resumed base course of 190(T).
1200 (H) 11-12 S, 115-16 E.

9 JANUARY 1945

0902 (H) (Ship Contact No. 43) 15-52 S, 114-17 E. Sighted submarine with
          British silhouette bearing 151(T) distant 18,000 yards.
0915 (H) Exchanged recognition signals and calls with HMS TANTALUS.
1031 (H) Made trim dive. Changed base course to 198(T).
1200 (H) 16-25 S, 114-11 E.
1710 (H) (Ship Contact No. 44) 17-27 S, 113-50 E. Sighted U.S.S. BARBEL
          bearing 209(T) distant 24,000 yards on northerly course.
1936 (H) to
2400 (H) SJ interference and APR contact on 210 Mc.

10 JANUARY 1945

0320 (H) (Ship Contact No. 45) 24-10 S, 111-05 E. Exchanged recognition signals
          and calls with U.S.S. BAYA by keying SJ.
1030 (H) Made trim dive.
1200 (H) 21-06 S, 112-08 E.
2000 (H) SJ and 210 Mc interference.

11 JANUARY 1945

0711 (H) Changed course to 185(T).
1200 (H) 26-04 S, 111-14 E.
1401 (H) Submerged.
1434 (H) Surfaced.
                                                                  - 57 -

— page 65 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

12 JANUARY 1945
0330 (H) Changed course to 120(T).
0900 (H) Ship Contact No. 46) 29-30 S, 112-47 E. Sighted U.S.S. CAVALLA
bearing 050(T) distant about 26,000 yards on southerly course.
1127 (H) Changed course to 180(T).
1200 (H) 29-55 S, 113-06 E.
1335 (H) (Ship Contact No. 47) 29-55 S, 113-36 E. Sighted U.S. Submarine be-
lieved to be HOE bearing 049(T) distant about 26,000 yards.
1401 (H) Submerged.
1501 (H) Surfaced.
1528 (H) Changed course to 145(T).
1611 (H) Regained contact with submarine believed to be HOE bearing 197(T)
distant about 26,000 yards.
2000 (H) Slowed to 1 engine speed.
2015 (H) Radar picked up land to eastward distant about 35,000 yards.
2130 (H) Changed course to 130(T).

13 JANUARY 1945
0015 (H) Sighted Rottnest Light bearing 151(T) distant about 35 miles.
0430 (H) In rendezvous position.
0610 (H) Exchanged calls with escort HMAS INVERELL.
0620 (H) Following escort in channel to Fremantle.
0815 (H) Conducted sound tests.
0900 (H) Ran degaussing test range.
0928 (H) Moored to U.S.S. CAVALLA outboard in nest of four submarines alongside
U.S.S. EURYALE in Fremantle Harbor.

- 58 -

— page 66 —
USS BLENNY (SS 324)

(C) WEATHER.

     Rough seas from north to northeast prevailed most of December 1944.
Headlands along the western shore of Luzon partially protected the close in-
shore where a few were effective at breaking resulting swells. Close inshore patrol-
ling submerged was practicable though high swells often made periscope obser-
vations inefficient. South of Hermana Mayor the surface close inshore re-
mained relatively calm even when force 6 seas were running to seaward.
Thundershowers were frequent early in the evening over land and close inshore.
Star fixes could rarely be obtained when the moon was well to seaward in the evening and
could always be obtained toward morning.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION.

     During December 1944 a northerly current of from 1½ to 2 knots flowed
parallel to the western coast of Luzon both above and below Lingyen Gulf.
During two short periods of calm weather this northerly current was observed
to disappear about 48 hours after the wind subsided. The current then resumed
flow about 48 hours after strong north northeasterly winds began blowing again.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS.

     No regular navigational lights were observed to be burning. On one
occasion when an enemy convoy entered Dasol Bay in the evening, strong, steady
white lights were observed burning on Capones Point, Hermana Mayor, and to
southward in the vicinity of Salvador Island. It is believed these were
definitely lighted for navigational purposes.

- 59

— page 67 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(F)
Time &
Date | Lat & Long | Type | SHIP CONTACTS
| | | Initial Range | Est. Crs.&Spd. | How | Remarks
2325(VW)
10 Nov 44 | 20-55 N
160-07 W | U.S. S/M 6,000
PERMIT | 090(T)
15 kt | R | SJ interference at 60,000
yds. Unsuccessfully tried
communicate by keying SJ.
Ansd. PERMIT'S visual Chall.
0330 (K)
11 Nov 44 | 16-24 N
145-09 E
145-00-30E | U.S. DD 12,570
SWANSON
DD443 | 090(T)
10 kts | R | SJ interference at 0330
bearing 210(T) keyed SJ
but no reply. SJ contact
at 201(T). Ansd. chall
of DD443 visually.
2200 (I)
23 Nov 44 | 16-39.50 N
143-34-15 E | U.S. S/M 4,200
KETE | 120(T)
12 kts | R | SJ interference at 2115
bearing 323(T). Established
contact at 2300 & exchanged
recg. signals & calls.
Sent message.
1659 (I)
27 Nov 44 | 20-49.5 N
124-10 E | U.S. S/M 20,000 | 090(T)
14 kts | SN | Only shears visible. AOB
estimated to be 90 port.
0515 (H)
1 Dec 44 | 16-25 N
119-22 E | Jap
DE UN-2 | 16,000
0515(T)
8 kts | SN | Sighted at 16,000 yds
0515 bearing 105(T)
0557 (H)
2 Dec 44 | 15-37 N
119-40 E | UNK
Patrol | 18,000
345(T)
8 kts | P
0619 (H)
2 Dec 44 | 15-37 N
119-40 E | UNK | 18,000
345(T)
10 kts | JP | Smoke only sighted.
1400 (H)
2 Dec 44 | 15-36.2 N
119-58.5 E | Sail
Boat | 15,000 | Southerly P | Hull down. Only sail
visible.
0643 (H)
4 Dec 44 | 15-58 N
119-38 E | Sailboat 16,000
Lanteen
Rigged | Southerly P | Hull down only sail
visible.
0633 (H)
5 Dec 44 | 15-31 N
119-39 E | UNK
Probably
Merchant
Jap | 32,000
315(T) | UNK
Probably P & Smoke only sighted.
2k(T) - 4k JP
1145 (H)
9 Dec 44 | 16-10.5 N
119-44 E | Sampan
without
mast | 750
180(T) | 180(T) by P P
tracked later JK
by sound on JP
Crs. 000(T)

- 60 -

— page 68 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)
SHIP CONTACTS
No. | Time & Date | Lat&Long | Type | Initial Range | Est Crs&Spd. | How Cont. | Remarks
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
11. | 0700 (H) | 15-32 N | Sailboat | 8,000 | 000(T) | P |
| 10 Dec 44 | 119-47 E | Lenuceen rig | | 4 kt | |
12. | 1722(H) | 15-50 N | 2 APs | 10,000 | 180(T) | P | Apparently headed to
| 10 Dec 44 | 119-41 E | 1 CNK | | 12 kts | | anchor overnight in Santa
| | | 3 UNK | | | | Cruz Harbor.
| | | escorts | | | |
3. | 0603 (H) | 15-44 N | 2 AP | 16,000 | 180(T) | P | Same convoy as contact
| 11 Dec 44 | 119-43 E | 1 AK | | 12 kts | | #12 identified as
| | | 6 escorts | | | | Terukawa Maru - Aihoku
| | | of which | | | | Maru - Argentine Maru
| | | at least 2 | | | | Husimi Maru - Heiyo Maru
| | | were DE-UN-2 | | | | 6 escorts - (2 DE UN-2)
4. | 1220(H) | 15-56.5 N | Sailboat | 5,000 | 315(T) | P | Sighted bearing 051(T)
| 13 Dec 44 | 119-43.5 E | | | 5 kt | | rounding Tanbobo Pt. Then
| | | | | | | heading north. Sound
| | | | | | | had screws on, same bearing
| | | | | | | at 120 turns.
5. | 0628(H) | 16-29 N | 250 ton | 10,000 | 110(T) | P | Sighted bearing 022(T)
| 14 Dec 44 | 119-43.5 E | sea truck | | 6 kts | | Opened fire with 40mm at
| | | | | | | 0707(H), 0713 20mm & 30
| | | | | | | cal., 0720 5"/25 cal. Set
| | | | | | | afire aft & sunk. Target
| | | | | | | had large numeral "5"
| | | | | | | painted on bridge front.
6. | 0834 (H) | 16-24 N | DD(New) | 20,000 | 200(T) | P | Hugging 100 fathom curve
| 14 Dec 44 | 119-33 E | AK(LFM) | | | | Heading south down the
| | | | | | | coast.
7. | 2025(H) | 16-18 N | DE-UN-2 | 12,300 | South | R | Tracked until 2225. Fired
| 14 Dec 44 | 119-33 E | | | 185-190 | | 3 torpedoes - Ship blew
| | | | | 14 kts | | up. Position 15-52 N
| | | | | | | 119-45 E. from 2 hits.
8. | 2045 (H) | 16-09.2 N | Hospital | 18,000 | 195(T) | SN & | Ship properly marked &
| 15 Dec 44 | 119-36 E | Ship | | 7 3/4 k | R | fully lighted.
9. | 1754 (H) | 16-0.5 N | Hospital | 12,000 | 030(T) | P |
| 19 Dec 44 | 119-37.9 E | Ship | | 8 kts | |
). & 21. Were sailboats unworthy of mention and are left out to make contact
numbers agree with narrative.

- 61 -

— page 69 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

SHIP CONTACTS
Initial How
No. Time & Lat & Long Type Range Crs&Spd. Cont. Remarks
Date

22. 0925 (H) 16-51 N Freighter 12,000 190(T) P Identified as Africa Maru
23 Dec 44 120-15 E transport 10K JK type ship. 9,467 tons.
similar Length 475'. Fired 6 torp.
Africa Maru at 10-20-12(H). Heard 6
Plus 1 DE explosions. Five believed
to be hits. Sounded like
target sank. L. 16-51 N
Long 120-08.2 E.

23. 0404 17-17 N 2 Patrol 14,000 Circling R Radar picked up two pips
24 Dec 44 120-70 E Craft 1-6 Kt at 14,000 yds. Radar track-
ed targets till found them
to be circling. Sp. be-
tween 3 & 6 Kts. Lat 17-06N
Long 120-20 E.

24. 0834 (H) 16-18.3 N 60 ton 2,500 000(T) P Had small boat in the
25 Dec 44 120-23.7 E Lugger 4 Kt davits astern.

25. 1349 (H) 17-18 N 60 ft 8,000 015(T) P Well camoflauged motor
25 Dec 44 120-24.1 E Sampan 4kt JK sampan covered with can-
155rpm opy & green shrubbery sim-
ilar Manila - Cavite "680"
boats. Jap flag on bow.

26. 1442 (H) 17-19.5 N 60 ton 8,000 Various P Under power with no
25 Dec 44 120-23.9 E Lugger mast up.

27. 0019 (H) 17-13.5 N 2 Sampans 6,000 070(T) SN Sighted by binoculars
26 Dec 44 120-14.2 E 7 kts later by radar at 5,200
yards. Had flat top.

28. 1902 (H) 17-00 N Patrol 9,800 180(T) R Sighted contact same time.
26 Dec 44 120-20 E about 6-16 Out ran patrol after be-
PC size ing picked up by him.

29. 0019 (H) 17-08.8 N Patrol 4,000 180(T) P
27 Dec 44 120-21.2 E probably 8 kt
SC

30. 1045 (H) 17-17.7 N AN.7-12 8,000 015(T) P Patrolling about 5 miles
27 Dec 44 120-23.8 E & PC 10 kt off 100 fathom curve.

31. 1330 (H) 17-17 N 2 APs 8,000 010(T) P AOs - 7000 ton new con-
27 Dec 44 120-24.5 E 2 AOs 8 kt struction type, APs about
1 DD,1 DE 4,500 tons. DD may have
1 Unid. Es. been new 1000 ton type.
All light draft & troop
laden. Fired 8 torpedoes
1 probable hit in last AP.

62

— page 70 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

SHIP CONTACTS
No. | Time & Date | Lat & Long | Type | Initial Range | Crs&Spd. | How Cont. | Remarks
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
32. | 0521 (H) | 15-44 N | Patrol | 19,000 | Unk | R | SJ had interference on
| 31 Dec 44 | 119-41 E | | | | | same bearing presumably
| | | | | | | from a 10 cm radar.
33. | 0629 (H) | 15-40 N | 2 AP 1 AO | 20,000 | 336(T) | R | APs were medium AO similar
| 31 Dec 44 | 119-44 E | 1 Engines | | 8 kt | | to an Maru Eng. aft sim-
| | | aft 1 tug | | | | ilar German Neptune.
| | | 2 DMN-2 | | | | Unable close fired 2 torp.
| | | 1 MTB, 1 UNK | | | | at approaching DE, missed.
| | | Escorts | | | |
34. | 2038 (H) | 15-29 N | 1 Untd. | 8,500 | Unk. | R | Detected in rain squall
| 31 Dec 44 | 119 38 E | Small craft | | | | and not sighted.
35. | 0725 (H) | 14-06 N | U.S. S/M | 14,250 | 235(T) | R |
| 1 Jan 45 | 118-41 E | HAMMERHEAD | | 14 kt. | |
36. | 0625 (H) | 11-12 N | 1 AP | 20,000 | 055(T) | R | AP similar to Argentine
| 2 Jan 45 | 113-08 E | 2 DD | | 12 kt | | Maru in silhouette but
| | | | | | | believed about Ukusima
| | | | | | | Maru size. Both DDs
| | | | | | | similar to German "Wolf"
| | | | | | | type and had longer pings
| | | | | | | than Jap DDs. Fired last
| | | | | | | 2 torp at AP. Believe 10'
| | | | | | | depth setting caused
| | | | | | | them to run under.
37. | 2044 (H) | 11-20 N | U.S. S/M | 2,200 | 000(T) | SN | SJ was being used to
| 2 Jan 45 | 114-20 E | HAMMERHEAD | | 5 kt | | communicate with HAMMER-
| | | | | | | HEAD and neglected to
| | | | | | | sweep.
38. | 1705 (H) | 00-48 S | U.S. S/M | 3,350 | 325 (T) | SD | S/M surfaced 70° on our
| 5 Jan 45 | 107-28 E | GABILON | | 15 kt. | | bow at 3,350 yds.
39. | 0209 (H) | 05-12 S | 2 masted | 12,000 | 300(T) | SD | Closed to 3,600 yds.
| 7 Jan 45 | 113-54 E | schooner | | 1 kt | | looked like native
| | | | | | | schooner.
40. | 0033 (H) | 08-30 S | Unk. | 8,450 | 345(T) | R | In Lombok Strait. Not
| 8 Jan 45 | 115-47 E | Probably | | 6 kt | | sighted by eye.
| | | Patrol | | | |
41. | 0610 (H) | 10-05 S | U.S. S/M | 22,000 | 010(T) | P | Sighted by surface
| 8 Jan 45 | 115-33 E | HOE | | 15 kt. | | periscope watch.
42. | 0620 (H) | 10-07 S | S/M HMS | 18,000 | 000(T) | P | Sighted by surface
| 8 Jan 45 | 115-33 N | SPIRIT | | 10 kt | | periscope watch.

- 63 -

— page 71 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

No. | Time &      | Lat & Long | Type    | SHIP CONTACTS | Crs & Spd | How   | Remarks
    | Date        |            |         | Initial Range |           | Cont. |
----||||||-------|
43. | 0902 (H)    | 15-52 S    | S/M HMS | 18,000        | 010(T)    | TANTALUS | Pers Sighted by surface
    | 9 Jan 45    | 114-17 E   |         |               | 10 kt     |       | periscope watch.
44. | 1710 (H)    | 17-27 S    | S/M     | 24,000        | 015 (T)   | BARBEL | Pers Sighted by surface
    | 9 Jan 45    | 113-50 E   |         |               | 15 kt     |       | periscope watch.
45. | 0320(H)     | 24-10 S    | S/M     | Unknown       | Unknown   | BAYA  | SJ Contacted by SJ inter-
    | 10 Jan 45   | 110-05 E   |         |               |           |       | ference and calls
    |             |            |         |               |           |       | exchanged.
46. | 0900 (H)    | 29-30 S    | S/M     | 26,000        | 141 (T)   | CAVALLA | Pers Sighted by surface
    | 12 Jan 45   | 112-47 E   |         |               | 15 kt     |       | periscope watch.
47. | 0335 (H)    | 29-55 S    | S/M     | 26,000        | Southerly | HOE(?) | Pers Sighted by surface
    | 12 Jan 45   | 113-36 E   |         |               | 15 kt.    |       | periscope watch.

- 63B -

— page 72 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS.
No. | Time | Lat | Type | Initial | Est. | How | Remarks
| Date | Long | | Range | Crs.&Spd | Cont |
1. | 1536 (K) | 16-52 N | Unk | 32000 | Unk | SD | Not sighted
| 11/21/44 | 117-32 E | | | | |
2. | 0045 (I) | 2-17 N | Unk | Unk | Unk | APR | Estimated passed
| 11/27/44 | 122-26 E | | | | | within 2 miles.
3. | 1310 (H) | 18-20 N | Unk | 14000 | Unk | SD | Not sighted.
| 11/30/44 | 117-54 E | | | | |
4. | 1535 (H) | 16-14 N | 2 | 12000 | (180(T) | Per | Flying low.
| 12/1/44 | 119-09 E | Einlanes | | | |
5. | 1555 (H) | 16-14 N | Rufe | - | 000(T) | Per |
| 12/1/44 | 119-08 E | | | | |
6. | 0848 (H) | 15-46 N | 2 | 12,000 | 180(T) | Per | Flying low.
| 12/2/44 | 119-52 E | Rufes | | | |
7. | 1150 (H) | 15-32 N | Rufe | 10,000 | 180(T) | Per | 3 miles west of
| 12/2/44 | 119-55 E | | | | | Salvador Island.
8. | 1330 (H) | 15-34 N | Rufe | - | 000(T) | Per | Flying low.
| 12/2/44 | 119-58 E | | | | |
9. | 1445 (H) | 15-36 N | Rufe | 6000 | 315(T) | Per |
| 12/2/44 | 119-55 E | | | | |
10. | 0814 (H) | 16-01 N | Dave | - | 180(T) | Per | Skirting coast.
| 12/4/44 | 119-39 E | | | | |
11. | 1012 (H) | 16-04 N | Float | - | 180(T) | Per | Along Coast.
| 12/4/44 | 119-39 E | Plane | | | |
12. | 0617 (H) | 15-31 N | Dave | - | Circling | Per | Convoy Escort
| 12/5/44 | 119-39 E | | | | |
13. | 0645 (H) | 15-31 N | Dave | 12,000 | Circling | Per |
| 12/5/44 | 119-40 E | | | | |
14. | 0900 (H) | 15-31 N | Dave | - | 315(T) | Per |
| 12/5/44 | 119-42 E | | | | |
15. | 1101 (H) | 15-36 N | Dave | - | 315(T) | Per | Along Coast
| 12/5/44 | 119-41 E | | | | |
16. | 1228 (H) | 15-40 N | Mavis | - | 090(T) | Per |
| 12/5/44 | 119-45 E | | | | |
17. | 1250 (H) | 15-41 N | Rufe | - | 215(T) | Per | Flying low.
| 12/5/44 | 119-46 E | | | | |
- 64 -

— page 73 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS, Cont'd.
No. | Time Date | Lat Long | Type | Initial Range | Est. Crs.&Spd | How Cont. | Remarks
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
18. | 1602 (H) 12/5/44 | 15-47 N 119-44 E | Low Wing Monaplane | 20,000 | 180(T) | Per |
19. | 1717 (H) 12/5/44 | 15-48 N 119-42 E | Float Biplane | | 180(T) | Pers | Flying Low
20. | 000(H) 12/6/44 | 15-48 N 118-47 E | Biplane | 1000 | 090(T) | Eye | Dropped two light bombs before we could submerge.
21. | 1445 (H) 12/7/44 | 16-35 N 119-50 E | Tess | 16,000 | 180(T) | Per |
22. | 0756 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-32 N 119-49 E | Dave | | 000(T) | Per | Along coast.
23. | 0825 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-33 N 119-49 E | Dave | | 000(T) | Per | Along coast.
24. | 0853 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-34 N 119-49 E | Tess | | 000(T) | Per | Over coast.
25. | 1013 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-36 N 119-48 E | Dave | | 315(T) | Per |
26. | 1136 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-41 N 119-47 E | Thelma | | 180(T) | Per | Flying low
27. | 1245 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-46 N 119-46 E | Rufe | | 180(T) | Per |
28. | 1410 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-45 N 119-45 E | Rufe | | 180(T) | Per |
29. | 1652 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-50 N 119-42 E | Thelmas | 4000 | 180(T) | Per |
30. | 1733 (H) 12/10/44 | 15-50 N 119-40 E | Float Plane | | | Per |
31. | 0620 (H) 12/11/44 | 15-45 N 119-43 E | Float Plane | 8000 | 270(T) | Per | Convoy escort
32. | 0843 (H) 12/11/44 | 15-46 N 119-49 E | Rufe | 10,000 | 180(T) | Per |
33. | 1519 (H) 12/11/44 | 15-47 N 119-00 E | Mavis | 20,000 | 180(T) | Eye | Flying low.
34. | 0030 (H) 12/12/44 | 15-51 N 118-35 E | Unk | Unk | Unk | Eye | Sighted exhaust

- 65 -

— page 74 —
U.S.S. PLENNY (SS324)

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS, Cont'd.
No. | Time     | Lat      | Type      | Initial | Est      | How   | Remarks
    | Date     | Long     |           | Range   | Crs.&Spd | Cont. |
35. | 0627 (H) | 15-55 N  | Bomber    | 12,000  | 000(T)   | Eye   |
    | 12/12/44 | 118-46 E |           |         |          |       |
36. | 1319 (H) | 15-58 N  | Unk       | 14,000  | 090(T)   | Eye   |
    | 12/12/44 | 118-36 E |           |         |          |       |
37. | 0612 (H) | 15-41 N  | Dave      |         | 000(T)   | Per   |
    | 12/13/44 | 119-47 E |           |         |          |       |
38. | 1000 (H) | 15-49 N  | Dave      |         | 000(T)   | Per   | Low over coast
    | 12/13/44 | 119-43 E |           |         |          |       |
39. | 1340 (H) | 15-59 N  | Rufe      |         | 000(T)   | Per   | Flying low over
    | 12/13/44 | 119-43 E |           |         |          |       | coast.
40. | 0108 (H) | 16-00 N  | Unk       | 10,000  |          | SJ    | Range opening
    | 12/14/44 | 119-35 E |           |         |          |       |
41. | 0612 (H) | 16-23 N  | Betty     | 20,000  | 000(T)   | Eye   | Low altitude
    | 12/14/44 | 119-31 E |           |         |          |       |
42. | 0621 (H) | 16-23 N  | Float     | 30,000  | 000(T)   | Eye   |
    | 12/14/44 | 119-31 E | plane     |         |          |       |
43. | 0743 (H) | 16-26 N  | Unk       | 16,000  |          | SD    |
    | 12/14/44 | 119-42 E |           |         |          |       |
44. | 0834 (H) | 16-24 N  | Rufe      | 20,000  | Circling | Per   | Air Escort
    | 12/14/44 | 119-39 E |           |         |          |       |
45. | 1558 (H) | 16-26 N  | Jake      | 16,000  | 270(T)   | Eye   | Our air escort shot
    | 12/14/44 | 119-30 E |           |         |          |       | him down.
46. | 2312 (H) | 16-02 N  | Unk       | 8,000   |          | APR   | Patrol with radar.
    | 12/14/44 | 119-40 E |           |         |          | SD    |
47. | 0454 (H) | 16-25 N  | Unk       | 14,000  |          | APR   | Patrol with 154 Mc
    | 12/15/44 | 119-30 E |           |         |          | SD    | Radar.
48. | 0653 (H) | 16-25 N  | Tess      | 6,000   | 000(T)   | Eye   | 6000 feet
    | 12/15/44 | 119-30 E |           |         |          |       |
49. | 0202 (H) | 16-25 N  | Tess      | 8,000   | 000(T)   | SD    |
    | 12/15/44 | 119-30 E |           |         |          |       |
50. | 0735 (H) | 16-25 N  | Unk       | 24,000  | 000(T)   | Eye   |
    | 12/15/44 | 119-30 E |           |         |          |       |
51. | 1539 (H) | 16-19 N  | Low wing  | 12,000  | 225(T)   | Eye   | Flying low sighted
    | 12/15/44 | 119-27 E | monoplane |         |          |       | us.

- 66 -

— page 75 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS Cont'd.
No. | Time | Lat | Type | Initial | Est | How | Remarks
| Date | Long | | Range | Crs.&Spd | Contact |
52. | 0619 (H) | 16-22 N | Tess | 14,000 | 000(T) | Eye | 6000 feet.
| 12/16/44 | 119-26 E | | | | |
53. | 1006 (H) | 16-16 N | Betty | 10,000 | 000(T) | Eye | Patrol?
| 12/17/44 | 118-30 E | | | | |
54. | 1411 (H) | 16-21 N | Sonia | 10,000 | 195(T) | Eye | Patrol.
| 12/17/44 | 118-27 E | | | | |
55. | 1630 (H) | 16-20 N | Unk | 16,000 | 095(T) | Per | Sighted us.
| 12/17/44 | 118-28 E | | | | |
56. | 1010 (H) | 15-41 N | Mono- | 12,000 | Circling | Per | Patrol?
| 12/18/44 | 119-46 E | plane | | | |
57. | 1532 (H) | 15-48 N | Betty | 6,000 | 180(T) | Per | Flying low.
| 12/18/44 | 119-45 E | | | | |
58. | 2131 (H) | 16-10 N | Unk | 8,000 | | SJ | Patrol
| 12/18/44 | 119-37 E | | | | |
59. | 1430 (H) | 17-50 N | Betty | 6,000 | 180(T) | Per | Flying low.
| 12/21/44 | 118-52 E | | | | |
60. | 0621 (H) | 18-00 N | Tess | 8,000 | 000(T) | Eye | Bound north from
| 12/22/44 | 118-48 E | | | | | Phil ippines.
61. | 1547 (H) | 17-21 N | Kate | 4,000 | 000(T) | Per | Patrolling 100
| 12/25/44 | 120-24 E | | | | | fathom curve.
62. | 2046 (H) | 17-13 N | Unk | 10,000 | | SJ | Lost at 12 miles.
| 12/25/44 | 120-08 E | | | | |
63. | 0024 (H) | 17-13 N | Unk | 2,000 | 000 | SJ | Picked up at 1250
| 12/26/44 | 120-14 E | | | | | yds, lost at 3500yd.
64. | 1505 (H) | 17-03 N | Kate | 8,000 | 180(T) | Per | Flying low.
| 12/26/44 | 120-22 E | | | | |
65. | 1532 (H) | 17-02 N | 3 | 10,000 | 000(T) | Per | In formation close
| 12/26/44 | 120-22 E | Frances | | | | to water.
66. | 1602 (H) | 16-51 N | Frances | 24,000 | 180(T) | Per | Low altitude.
| 12/26/44 | 120-24 E | | | | |
67. | 2116 (H) | 15-30 N | Unk | 8,000 | 140(T) | SJ |
| 12/28/44 | 119-42 E | | | | |
68. | 2224 (H) | 15-29 N | Unk | 30,000 | 205(T) | SJ | SJ interference
| 12/28/44 | 119-41 E | | | 200 kt | | probably own recco
| | | | | | | plane.

- 67

— page 76 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS Cont'd.
No. | Time | Lat | Type | Initial | Est | How | Remarks
    | Date | Long |      | Range | Crs&Spd | Cont |
----|------|------|------|||-----|
69. | 0111 (H) | 15-30 N | Unk | 8,000 | 085(T) | SJ | Not headed right
    | 12/29/44 | 119-35 E |      |         | 150 kt |     | at us.
70. | 0507 (H) | 15-29 N | Unk | 8,000 | 052(T) | SJ | Zero angle on bow
    | 12/29/44 | 119-36 E |      |         | 110 kt |     | from plot.
71. | 1943 (H) | 15-24 N | Unk | 24,000 |         | SJ |
    | 12/29/44 | 119-35 E |      |         |         |     |
72. | 2200 (H) | 15-32 N | Unk | 20,000 | 340(T) | SJ | Has 10 Cm radar.
    | 12/29/44 | 119-37 E |      |         | 150 kt |     | Probably own recco
    |          |          |      |         |         |     | plane.
73. | 0232 (H) | 15-29 N | Unk | 14,000 | 165(T) | SJ | Night patrol.
    | 12/30/44 | 119-43 E |      |         | 135 kt |     |
74. | 0625 (H) | 15-29 N | Unk | 30,000 | 000(T) | Per |
    | 12/30/44 | 119-32 E |      |         |         |     |
75. | 0638 (H) | 15-28 N | Unk | 12,000 | 297(T) | Eye | Sighted us. Zero
    | 12/30/44 | 119-31 E |      |         |         |     | angle on bow.
76. | 1255 (H) | 15-25 N | 10 | 2,000 | 180(T) | Per | Replacements en-
    | 12/30/44 | 119-38 E | Frances |         |         |     | route Manila.
77. | 1345 (H) | 15-29 N | Frances | 14,000 | 345(T) | Per |
    | 12/30/44 | 119-41 E |      |         |         |     |
78. | 0930 (H) | 15-37 N | Rufe | 4,000 | 045(T) | Per | Searching for us
    | 12/31/44 | 119-41 E |      |         |         |     | following an attack.
79. | 1631 (H) | 15-23 N | Frances | 6,000 | Circling | Per | Searching for us
    | 12/31/44 | 119-28 E |      |         |         |     | following an attack.
80. | 0748 (H) | 05-50 S | Unk | 8,000 | 315(T) | Eye | Probably enroute
    | 1/6/45   | 109-45 E |      |         |         |     | Singapore from
    |          |          |      |         |         |     | Surabaya.
81. | 0719 (H) | 5-16 S | Dave | 12,000 | 320(T) | Eye | Patrol.
    | 1/7/45   | 114-49 E |      |         |         |     |

- 60 -

— page 77 —
(H)
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)                               GUN ATTACK NO. 1
                                                                        PATROL NO. 1
TIME: 0707-0737                 DATE: 14 December 1944          Lat. 16-27 N, Long 119-43 E.

                                TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

SUNK: - Sea truck 250 tons. Identification established from sketch and description
         in ONI bulletin page 3077 under heading - "Japanese Wooden Vessels".

DETAILS OF ACTION:

AMMUNITION EXPENDED:

        5"/25           - 47 rounds for 25 hits (approximate)
        40mm            - 96 rounds for 6 hits (approximate)
        20mm            - 450 rounds for many hits
        .30 cal         - 1875 rounds for many hits

        All Mk. 29 fuses for the 5"/25 gun were set on super-quick except the first
two. Two 5"/25 hits on target were seen to explode with devastating effect. The
ammunition expended was tracer and HC in alternate clips. One 20mm gun was
cleared with a ramrod, recocking and using a fresh magazine. The two Browning
.30 cal. air-cooled machine guns functioned perfectly as anti-personnel weapons.

        Target tracked on course 110(T) speed 5 knots. Commenced firing 20 and
40mm at 3800 yards. Opened fire with .30 cal when within range and at 1200 yards
opened fire with 5"/25 - First 5 five inch shots were hits aft which set target
afire. After target capsized and sank, several dozen oil drums floated clear -
apparently empty.

        Attack was made in force 3 sea.

                                                                        - 69 -

— page 78 —
A CK NO. 1 - DECEMBER 1, 19

(H)
TARGET DRAFT 6' COURSE 168 SPEED 9 RANGE 1500 (at firing)

OWN SHIP
SPEED 2 kts COURSE 163 DEPTH 6' ANGLE 1° D (at firing)

TUBES FIRED             #7      #1      #3
GYRO ANGLE              182     182½    183
*DEPTH SET              2'      2'      2'
POWER                   -       -       -
HIT OR MISS             Miss    Miss    Miss
ERRATIC (Yes or NO)     No      No      No
MARK TORPEDO            18-1    18-1    18-1
SERIAL NO.              56822   55521   56784
MARK EXPLODER           8-5     8-5     8-5
SERIAL NO.              8319    8974    10500
ACTUATION SET           Contact Contact Contact
ACTUATION ACTUAL        0       0       0
MARK WARHEAD            18-1    18-2    18-2
SERIAL NO.              2043    2512    3397
EXPLOSIVE               TPX     TPX     TPX
FIRING INTERVAL         8       8       8
TYPE SPREAD(Divergent)  0       1/4°R   1/4°L
SEA CONDITIONS          Calm - slight swell
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY       Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
* S/Z - 27.7 knots

Misses were probably due to torpedo run being too long and target
being set up for a small angle on bow instead of a zero angle on bow which angle
target assumed after being fired at. This target was a DE UN-2.

- 70 -

— page 79 —
U.S.S. BLENNY
TIME: 0617 DATE: 1 DECEMBER 1944
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1
PATROL NO. 1
Lat 16-21 N, Long 119-32 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Target was DE UN-2 and was sighted through 9 x 60 binoculars
at about 16,000 yards in excellent visibility made possible by
low moon and approaching dawn. Target had about a 90 port angle
on bow and was picked up by SJ after being coached on at 14,000
yards.

Ship(s) Sunk: None
Ship(s) Damaged None
or Probably Sunk.
Damage Determined by -

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: This was a periscope approach down the throat shot with
angle on bow set in TDC as 3°. After firing angle on bow was
observed as zero which probably caused the misses.

- 71 -

— page 80 —
ATTACK NO. 2 - DECEMBER 14, 4
TARGET DRAFT 6' COURSE 200 SPEED 14 RANGE 2200 (at firing)
OWN SHIP
SPEED 10 kts COURSE 090 DEPTH Surface ANGLE 0 (at firing)

TUBES FIRED # 4 # 5 # 6
GYRO ANGLE 030½ 031 030
DEPTH SET 2' 2' 2'
POWER - - -
HIT OR MISS Hit Miss Hit
ERRATIC (Yes or No) No No No
MARK TORPEDO 18-1 18-1 18-1
SERIAL NO. 56077 56292 55796
MARK EXPLODER 8-5 8-5 8-5
SERIAL NO. 8403 10564W 9059
ACTUATION SET Contact Contact Contact
ACTUATION ACTUAL Contact 0 Contact
MARK WARHEAD 18-2 18-2 18-2
SERIAL NO 2488 3281 3494
EXPLOSIVE TPX TPX TPX
FIRING INTERVAL 8s 8s 8s
TYPE SPREAD(Divergent) 0 1½R 1½L

SEA CONDITIONS No. 1 (calm) from North
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
* Sz - 27.4

Two hits were observed and pip disappeared on radar at 7,200 yards whereas
it had been picked up at 12,300 yards. This target was a DE UN-2 and from
evidence available definitely sank.

- 72 -

— page 81 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)
TIME 2225 DATE 14 December 1944
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL NO. 1
Lat 15-46 N, Long 119-45 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description Target was what appeared to be DE UN-2 and was picked up by
radar at 12,300 when barely distinguishable from land pips about
1500 yards beyond it. Target was proceeding alone close to coast
zigzagging. At about 4,500 yards target was visible in binoculars.

Ship(s) Sunk One DE UN-2 estimated tonnage about 600 tons.
Ship(s) Damaged None
or Probably Sunk
Damage Determined by - Saw two torpedoes hit with magazine explosion in between.
Target disappeared from radar screen at 7,200 yards whereas it had
been picked up at 12,300 yards close to a land background.

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack This was a radar approach on the surface. Targets speed was
accurately determined after a two hour end around and attack was
made maintaining a zero angle on the bow to target.

- 73
[HANDWRITTEN: no]

— page 82 —
ATTACK NO. 3 - DECEMBER 23, 1944
TARGET DRAFT 10 COURSE 202 SPEED 10 RANGE 1100 (at firing)
OWN SHIP
SPEED 2 COURSE 060 DEPTH 65 ANGLE 10 D (at firing)

| TUBES FIRED | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GYRO ANGLE | 035 | 033½ | 031 | 034 | 032½ | 035½ |
| DEPTH SET | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6' |
| POWER | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| HIT OR MISS | Hit | Hit | Hit | Hit | Hit | Miss |
| ERRATIC (yes or no) | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| MARK TORPEDO | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 |
| SERIAL NO. | 56039 | 56130 | 56106 | 56743 | 55389 | 56751 |
| MARK EXPLODER | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 | 8-5 |
| SERIAL NO | 9347 | 10054W | 8231 | 8512 | 9377 | 10426W |
| ACTUATION SET | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact |
| ACTUATION ACTUAL | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact | 0 |
| MARK WARHEAD | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| SERIAL NO. | 3248 | 3393 | 2033 | 3251 | 3284 | 3317 |
| EXPLOSIVE | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX | TPX |
| FIRING INTERVAL | 8s | 8s | 8s | 8s | 8s | 8s |
| TYPE SPREAD(Divergent) | 5 R | 3 R | 1 R | 1 L | 3 L | 5 L |
| SEA CONDITIONS | No. 2 from 030 |
| OVERHAUL ACTIVITY | Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. |
| * Sz - 28.6 | |

This attack was on a freighter transport of about 475 foot length and of
at least 7,000 tons; similar in silhouette to the Africa Maru. Five timed hits
were heard and shortly thereafter target was observed completely obscured by
spray, smoke, or both. Breaking up noises were heard followed about 2 minutes
after hits by a loud noise of escaping air or steam which it is believed was air
venting from target as it sank.

[HANDWRITTEN: no]

- 74 -

— page 83 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 PATROL NO. 1
TIME 1019(H) DATE 23 December 1944 Lat 16-50 N, Long 120-18 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Target was freighter transport of split superstructure type
estimated as being at least 475 feet long by subtension in
periscope field measured against ping range. Target had
silhouette approximately similar to that of Africa Maru.
Sound operator stated target had twin screws. Decks and super-
structure were seen to be covered with olive green clad troops.
Target was sighted by periscope at range of about 20,000
yards in good visibility and was escorted by ship resembling
a DE.

Ship(s) Sunk: One twin screw split superstructure freighter transport type
resembling Africa Maru of at least 475 feet long and of over
7,000 tons.

Ship(s) Damaged: None
or Probably Sunk

Damage Determined by: Heard 5 timed hits. Saw cloud of spray and / or smoke
which completely obscured target raised by torpedo hits.
Heard crackling noises characteristic of a ship sinking and
two minutes after torpedo hits heard loud sound as of escaping
air throughout boat which must have been caused by air escap-
ing from targets compartments as it sank.

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: This was a periscope approach and although target was tracked
for but a relatively short time torpedo run was so short as
to practically ensure hits.

- 75 -

— page 84 —
ATTACK NO. 4A - DECEMBER 7, 1944

TARGET DRAFT 10 COURSE 010 SPEED 8 RANGE 2800 (at firing)

                                                              OWN SHIP
SPEED 16 COURSE 140 DEPTH 60 ANGLE ½ D (at firing)

TUBES FIRED                     #7        #8        #9        #         #
GYRO ANGLE                      251½      246½      243½
DEPTH SET                       6'        6'        6'
POWER                           -         -         -
HIT OR MISS                     Miss      Miss      Miss
ERRATIC (yes or No)             No        No        No
MARK TORPEDO                    18-1      18-1      18-1
SERIAL NO                       56702     55965     56660
MARK EXPLODER                   8-5       8-5       8-5
SERIAL NO                       9976      9314      10500
ACTUATION SET                   Contact   Contact   Contact
ACTUATION ACTUAL                0         0         0
MARK WARHEAD                    18-2      18-2      18-2
SERIAL NO                       3196      3200      3397
EXPLOSIVE                       TPX       TPX       TPX
FIRING INTERVAL                 10s       10s       10s
TYPE SPREAD                     3/4 R     3/4 L     2½ L

SEA CONDITIONS                  No. 2 Swell from 025(T).
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY               Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
* Sz - 28.0

This attack was made against a 7,000 ton new construction tanker and due
to an error in range taking all torpedoes missed. A range taken in high power
was given as two divisions instead of eight.

Number 10 tube was to be fired but was not due to solution light going
out as torpedo run generated beyond maximum.

- 76 -

— page 85 —
U.S.S. PLENNY (SS324)
TIME 1412-45

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4A
DATE 27 December 1944 Lat 17-16 N, Long 120-24 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Target was a new construction type of tanker of about 7,000
tons depicted in an ONI bulletin published in mid 1944. Stack
was narrow. Target was at the time of light draft and was
troop laden. Sighted by periscope in good visibility at
about 11,000 yards as it rounded a point of land. There were
2 APs, 1 AO, 3 escorts and 1 floatplane with this tanker.

Ship(s) Sunk: None

Ship(s) Damaged
or Probably Sunk: None

Damaged Determined By --

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type Attack: This was a periscope approach and a multiple target attack
three ships being fired at. A low parallax large gyro angle
shot was used which necessitated an accurate firing range to
insure hits. An error was made in giving the range from
the telemeter scale, 8 small divisions being called "two" in
high parallax. This undoubtedly caused all misses as the
range set on the TDC was 4 x that what it should have been.

- 77 -

— page 86 —
ATTACK NO. 4B - DECEMBER 2, 1944
TARGET DRAFT 10 COURSE 010 SPEED 8 RANGE 2200 (at firing)

OWN SHIP
SPEED 2.5 COURSE 140 DEPTH 64 ANGLE 1° D (at firing)

TUBES FIRED           # 1      # 2       # 3      #   #
GYRO ANGLE            260      255½      261
*DEPTH SET            6'       6'        6'
POWER                 -        -         -
HIT OR MISS           Miss     Miss      Miss
ERRATIC (yes or no)   No       No        No
MARK TORPEDO          18-1     18-1      18-1
SERIAL NO             10404W   10311W    10447W
ACTUATION SET         Contact  Contact   Contact
ACTUATION ACTUAL      0        0         0
MARK WARHEAD          18-2     18-2      18-2
SERIAL NO.            3344     3238      3202
EXPLOSIVE             TPX      TPX       TPX
FIRING INTERVAL       10s      10s       10s
TYPE SPREAD           0        2½R       2½L

SEA CONDITIONS        No. 2 from 025(T)
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY     Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
* Sz - 28.0

These torpedoes fired at a 7,000 ton tanker (new construction) missed due
to a range taking error which gave a range of four times that which it should
have been.

- 78 -

— page 87 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4B PATROL NO. 1
TIME 1414-05 DATE 27 December 1944 Lat 17-16 N, Long 120-24 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Target was a new construction type of tanker of about 7,000
tons depicted in an ONI bulletin published in mid 1944.
Stack was narrow. Target was at the time of light draft and
was taken by periscope in good visibility at
about 3000 yards. Target rounded a point of land. There
were three escorts and one floatplane with
this ship.

Ship(s) Sunk: None

Ship(s) Damaged
or Probably Sunk: None

Damage Determined by -

[HANDWRITTEN: FIRE CONTROL DATA]

Type of Attack: This was a periscope approach and a multiple target attack
with three ships being fired at. A high parallax large gyro shot
was indicated an accurate range to insure hits.
An error was made in giving the range from the telemeter
scale, 8 small divisions being called "two" in H.P. This
undoubtedly caused all misses as the range was 4 x that what
it should have been.

- 79 -

— page 88 —
ATTACK NO. 4C DECEMBER 27, 1944

TARGET DRAFT 10 COURSE 010 SPEED 8 RANGE 2400 (at firing)

OWN SHIP
SPEED 3.0 COURSE 140 DEPTH 64 ANGLE 1° D (at firing)

| | | |
|---|---|---|
| TUBES FIRED | #4 | #5 |
| GYRO ANGLE | 316 | 318 |
| *DEPTH SET | 6' | 6' |
| POWER | - | - |
| HIT OR MISS | Miss | Miss |
| ERRATIC (yes or No) | No | No |
| MARK TORPEDO | 18-1 | 18-1 |
| SERIAL NO | 56588 | 56717 |
| MARK EXPLODER | 8-5 | 8-5 |
| SERIAL NO | 10012W | 10366W |
| ACTUATION SET | Contact | Contact |
| ACTUATION ACTUAL | 0 | 0 |
| MARK WARHEAD | 18-2 | 18-2 |
| SERIAL NO | 3340 | 3382 |
| EXPLOSIVE | TPX | TPX |
| FIRING INTERVAL | 10s | 10s |
| TYPE SPREAD | 2L | 2R |
| SEA CONDITIONS | No. 2 from 027(T) |
| OVERHAUL ACTIVITY | Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. |
| * Sz - 28.0 | |

In making the tubes ready, the ready to
fire lever would not raise on #6 tube
because the interlock chain drive was
out of adjustment. The casualty was
quickly corrected but not in time to
fire the tube. This casualty has happen-
ed once before (#3 tube) during trials
at Newport. The turnbuckle lock nuts
were found secure so the reason is
advanced that the chain could have
stretched enough to cause the interlocks
to fail to line up for engagement.

These two torpedoes were fired at a medium AP of about 4,500 tons. Although
a range error of 4 times the probable range was made, it is believed one torpedo
hit for the following reasons:

(1) An explosion sounding like a torpedo explosion was heard 1 minute and
32 seconds after firing the second torpedo at this target followed by two muffled
explosions. At the time of this explosion all torpedoes fired at this and two
other targets were at least 900 yards from the beach. The explosion had to be
either a torpedo hitting something or a depth charge or aircraft bomb. It sounded
like neither of the latter and no more explosions of any kind were heard.
(2) If the range at shooting had been 1300 yards the second torpedo should
have been a hit.
- 80 -

— page 89 —
U.S.S. FLENNY (SS324)
TIME 1415-20 DATE 27 December 1944

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 4C PATROL NO 1.
Lat 17-16 N, Long, 120-24 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Target was a medium AP in convoy of estimated 4,500 tons MPM
with both masts on top of kingposts. Target was troop laden,
sighted by periscope in good visibility
at about 11,000 yards as it rounded a point of land. There
were 2 tanker, one AP, 3 escorts with two ships and one
float plane with this AP.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged
or Probably Sunk: One 4,500 ton AP.

Damage Determined: An explosion which sounded like a torpedo explosion followed
by two muffled explosions was heard 1'-32" after firing the
second torpedo at this target. At the time of this explosion
all torpedoes were at least 900 yards from the beach as de-
termined by navigation fix. The explosion had to be either a
torpedo hitting something or a depth charge or aircraft bomb.
It sounded like neither of the latter and no more explosions
of any kind were heard.

If the range at shooting had been 1300 yards (which is
quite possible), the second torpedo would have been a hit.
The targets were looked at quickly in low power after this
explosion but except for brownish smoke arising from the first
target, two ships ahead of this one nothing untoward was
noticed.

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Type of Attack: This was a periscope approach and a multiple target attack,
three ships being fired at. Although a range taking error
of 4 x was made, large instead of small telemeter divisions
being called out in F.C.P., it is believed one hit resulted
from the two torpedoes fired. This was possible because the
gyro was only 44° left and the spread sufficient to take care
of the other errors.

- 81 -

— page 90 —
ACK NO. 5 - DECEMBER 31, 1944
TARGET DRAFT 6 COURSE 010 SPEED 11 RANGE 650 (at firing)

OWN SHIP
SPEED 2.1 COURSE 183 DEPTH 64' ANGLE 3/4° D (at firing)
TUBES FIRED #3 #4

GYRO ANGLE 026 027½
*DEPTH SET 2' 2'
POWER - -
HIT OR MISS Miss Miss
ERRATIC (yes or no) No No
MARK TORPEDO 18-1 18-1
SERIAL NO 56043 56868
MARK EXPLODER 8-5 8-5
SERIAL NO 8771 8827
ACTUATION SET Contact Contact
ACTUATION ACTUAL 0 0
MARK WARHEAD 18-2 18-2
SERIAL NO 3346 3242
EXPLOSIVE TPX TPX
FIRING INTERVAL 0 17s

TYPE SPREAD 0 0
SEA CONDITIONS No. 2 swell from North
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

* Sz - 28.0

This attack was against a DE UN-2 firing 2 torpedoes with a depth setting
of 2 feet down swell in a force 3 sea. Target zigged from 15° angle on bow to zero
angle on bow while firing which undoubtedly caused the misses. It is also doubt-
ful whether or not the torpedoes would have held their depth in such a sea. How-
ever firing with a run of less than 900 yards it was thought possible target
could not evade torpedoes.

- 82 -

— page 91 —
U.S.S. RAY (SS324)
TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 5 PATROL NO. 1
TIME 0726-30(H) DATE 31 DECEMBER 1944 Lat 15-41 N, Long 119-45 E.

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Target was DE UN-2 which was escorting a convoy of 2 medium
AP, one tanker resembling Tonan Maru (but only one stack
noticed) one engines aft ship resembling 7,000 ton Neptun and one tug. There were three other escorts. One
probably a MTB and one unidentified escort
believed equipped with 10cm radar. There was also at least
one float plane escort. Contact made by periscope at about
8,000 yards in fair visibility shortly after sunrise.

Ship(s) Sunk: None
Ship(s) Damaged
or Probably Sunk: None

Damage Determined by -

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

Attack: This was a periscope approach made on an escort when unable
to close the main convoy. Target was fired at while he was
changing course and also changing angle on bow. Although
torpedo run was very short,
firing was ample enough to cause misses.

- 83 -

— page 92 —
ATTACK NO. 6 - JANUARY 2, 1945
TARGET DRAFT [HANDWRITTEN: 8½'] COURSE 064 SPEED 12 RANGE 1300 (at firing)
OWN SHIP
SPEED [HANDWRITTEN: 2.3] COURSE [HANDWRITTEN: 182] DEPTH [HANDWRITTEN: 64'] ANGLE [HANDWRITTEN: 10 D] (at firing)
TURES FIRED [HANDWRITTEN: #2] [HANDWRITTEN: #10]
GYRO ANGLE 164 164½
*DEPTH SET 10' 10'
HIT OR MISS Miss Miss
ERRATIC (yes or no) No No
MARK TORPEDO 18-1 18-1
SERIAL NO 56676 56303
MARK EXPLODER 8-5 8-5
SERIAL NO 10423 10374
ACTUATION SET Contact Contact
ACTUATION ACTUAL 0 0
MARK WARHEAD 18-2 18-2
SERIAL NO 2163 3260
EXPLOSIVE TPX TPX
FIRING INTERVAL 10s 10s
TYPE SPREAD(Divergent) 2R 2L

SEA CONDITIONS No. 3 swell from North.
OVERHAUL ACTIVITY Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

* Sz - 29.1

This attack was made against an AP whose draft apparently was light. At
first target was thought to be large but after periscope exposures with target
close aboard it is thought target could have been as small as Ukusima Maru which
it considerably resembled. It this small a size the 10 foot
depth setting could have been too deep. It is believed this caused torpedoes to
miss. The only other possible reason was speed was thought to be wrong causing
miss. The only other possible reason was speed was thought to be wrong causing
torpedoes to have been improperly advanced. Speed was considered quite accurate as the result
of radar tracking, turn count, and a 7 hour end around.

- 84 -

— page 93 —
U.S.S. GLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 6 PATROL NO. 1
TIME 1433-50 DATE 2 January 1945 Lat 114-24 N, Long 12-20 E

TARGET DATA - DAMAGE INFLICTED

Description: Target was an AP whose silhouette resembled that of the
Argentine Maru but believed smaller and believed of light draft.
It could have been as small as the Hokusho Maru and of the
same general lines but the stack was proportionately smaller.
The target was escorted by two destroyers similar in silhouette
to the German Wolf class. Target was picked up
just prior to morning twilight at 20,000 yards by SJ radar.

Ship(s) Sunk: None

Ship(s) Damaged None
or Probably Sunk:

Damaged Determined by -

FIRE CONTROL AND TORPEDO DATA

This was a periscope approach in which speed had been
accurately determined by radar tracking, an end around, and
turn count. It is believed that the depth setting of 10'
was too deep for the draft of the target. A good firing
position was obtained but it is possible that the target's
constant helm zigzag plan was insufficiently advanced on the
TDC.

- 35 -

— page 94 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(I) MINES.

One barnacle covered spherical mine with four horns and a lifting pad
was sighted and exploded by 20mm gun fire in latitude 04-37 S, longitude, 111-40 E.
The yellowish white smoke given off smelled like picric acid. A brownish dis-
coloration was left in the water. Very likely this was an old Dutch mine which
had broken loose from an anchored field.

- 86 -

— page 95 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

J) ANTI SURMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS.

1. NIGHT AIRCRAFT.
   In the area west of Luzon from Palauig Light northward to Vigan much
   enemy night aircraft activity was experienced. On the one occasion when we were
   taken by surprise by these aircraft, we were bombed with two light bombs which hit
   the water within about 100 feet of the stern before we could submerge. We had not
   been zigzagging, were making 10 knots without an unusual amount of phosphorescence,
   and were not using the SD or SJ radars except that the SJ was being used as a
   listening watch to intercept enemy 10 Cm radar. The low moon was partially covered
   by clouds and the plane approached from sharp on the bow from opposite the moon.
   He was first seen by naked eye. The APR was manned and no radar was intercepted.
   Thereafter our policy was to zigzag at night, moon or no moon, and to sweep in PPI
   with the SJ constantly using two operators, one to scan the PPI and one the A scope.
   This proved extremely valuable in picking up night and day flying planes.

   Many aircraft contacts were made with the SJ ranging from 32,000 yards
   on Liberators a few degrees above the horizon to unidentified enemy planes at 20°
   elevation about 7,000 yards away. In those cases where timely warning could be
   given, a graphical plot was maintained to determine whether it was necessary to dive
   or the plane.

   The most prevalent night aircraft radar met with was 150 Mc plus or
   minus 10 Mc, with a PRF of 1000-1050, pulse width 5-10 microsecs. Due to unannounc-
   ed friendly planes reconnaissance runs in the area we were never sure whether some
   of the 10 Cm carrying night aircraft were Jap or not.
   Although ranges on night aircraft on occasions closed to within a mile before SJ
   contact with the planes which we had APR contact with, this tends to show Jap airborne
   radar is either not very good or not very expertly handled.

2. CONVOY ESCORTS.
   The DE UN-2 was the most prevalent escort encountered. On two occasions
   we reached an attack position at close range from convoys without being picked up
   by echo ranging. On one of these occasions we had to present a 90° angle on bow
   to the escort at about 3,000 yards to reach the target. On the other occasion we
   were able to get in because escorts failed to patrol dead ahead of convoy inside of
   100 fathom curve, they tending to concentrate their search about a mile off the
   100 fathom curve. These DE UN-2 escorts were able to drop 18 depth charges on one
   attack singly or doubly in rapid succession. On one occasion one DE passed overhead
   twice without dropping, making us think he got a sounding on us. We quickly in-
   creased depth 100 feet to 325' and although the Depth Charges sounded closer they
   were still above making us believe our assumption had been correct. Escorts were
   seen to show flashing white masthead lights in daytime just at the time we thought
   they had contact on us or when we thought they wanted us to think they had contact
   on us. Apparently it is a quick way of telling other escorts they have contact.
   However on one occasion the light was used when no other escorts were at the moment
   in the throat at a DE. Escort depth charge tactics were the usual approach from astern.
   When two were working us, one proceeded

- 87 -

— page 96 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

slowly on the beam. On another occasion we were not picked up when very close to a
destroyer resembling the German "Wolf" class. This destroyer had an unusually long
sing. A destroyer roughly resembling the Fubuki Amogiri type searched for us un-
successfully after the fourth firing. He appeared smaller than a full size DD how-
ever, and may have been one of the new 1,000 ton Matsu Class.

Almost all traffic sighted close to Luzon was air escorted. One convoy
had at least 4 air escorts, two bombers or transport planes and two float planes.
being detected by a DE, two aircraft bombs were dropped astern probably in the swirl
left by our speeding up to go deep.

3. POSSIBLE ANTI SUBMARINE MEASURE.

Off Santa Cruz we encountered a string of buoys with one or two flag
tipped wands on them each with a small buoy and a wash nearby. This string of buoys was
parallel to the coast and off the 100 fathom curve a few miles. Smoke had been
sighted a few hours before in a position indicating that the ship making it,
probably had passed inboard of these buoys. They may have been fishing nets or
sono buoys. In any case with planes or escorts nearby it would have been embarras-
sing to have gone through and snagged them.

4. EVASION TACTICS

Evasion tactics consisted of running silent at the best bathythermograph
evasion depth and maneuvering to avoid attacking or holding a collision bearing. Speed-
ed up when short scale pinging was heard and changed course to increase whatever
falling off of bearing there was. Key West gained experience gave us considerable
confidence in these tactics. All depth charges were astern. On the first two
attacks depth charges set deep were just as good if not better than set shallow
convoy got clear. Except when reversing course or when escorts were on short scale,
retired successfully at periscope depth keeping track of pingers. On several
occasions we fired false target shells which apparently helped to confuse the
attackers. Deep depths were avoided because it was felt the chances of encountering
charges set deep were just as good if not better than of having them set shallow
and the hull would have been under greater stress at deep depths.

After the night bombing we religiously zigzagged at night and used the
J day and night.

- 88

— page 97 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

C & R

1. Stern Plane Indicator Casualty

     Dove for a plane which dropped two bombs on us. Operation of the
stern planes on this dive was extremely erratic. On surfacing investigation
showed that the clamp which secures the stern plane indicator to the stern plane
ram shaft had shifted position. The false indication resulting accounted for the
apparent erratic operation of the planes. The clamp was secured to the shaft and
the indicator then operated normally.

2. Noisy Operation of Hydraulic Accumulator Pilot Valve.

     While enroute Pearl to Saipan the hydraulic accumulator developed a
loud groaning noise on charging. Both automatic bypass and non return valves
were disassembled and found to be operating properly. Upon arrival Saipan the
pilot valve was disassembled by tender personnel. Washers which had not been
installed at Pearl, were installed on moving parts of pilot valve yoke and
operation of pilot valve was freed up. Enroute Saipan to patrol area and during
the entire patrol the same noise reoccurred. Ship's personnel renewed oil seal
and loosened air ram packing gland. This temporarily corrected the difficulty
and was repeated several times during the patrol. However, it is believed that
complete renewal of packing in the accumulator is necessary before normal operation
can be obtained.

ENGINEERING.

Main engine Cylinder holding down bolts.

     The two inboard cylinder holding down studs on No. 10 unit of No. 3
main engine sheared at the junction of the head and block.

     The cause of this failure could not be determined but it is hoped that
the new design holding down bolts will do away with this common failure.

No. 1 Fuel Oil Purifier.

     The threaded bushing on the drag body of #1 fuel oil purifier sheared
off. This occurred when the flexible drive coupling to the bowl sheared upon
starting. The flexible coupling sheared because of improper timing of the starter
box contactors. The drag body bushing gave way due to poor workmanship in manu-
facture. The outside diameter of the bushing was cut too small thus decreasing
the wall thickness. The bushing was further weakened by an under-cut taken at the
base to facilitate threading. When the bowl became loose due to the coupling failure
the bushing in this weakened condition just could not take it. No spare drag body
is provided in the spare parts. Temporary repair was made by the ship's force.

- 89 -

— page 98 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

ENGINEERING Cont'd.

Cylinder Liner Assembly.

No 4 main engine fresh water system frequently became air bound. After
a 12 hour pressure test (35 psi) a leak was detected in No. 2 unit. The cylinder
liner was replaced and the system has not been air bound since. A close visual
inspection of the removed liner showed no crack. The liner had been in use 536.5
engine hours.

ELECTRICAL

Galley Mixing Machine Motor.

Two armatures for the galley mixing machine burned out. This motor is of a
commercial type and is not built to stand the finishing rate of a battery charge.

Washing Machine Motor.

The armature for the washing machine motor was burned out. This motor
was previously flooded with oil and although it had been cleaned and baked its
resistance was permanently weakened.

TORPEDO AND GUNNERY MATERIAL

1. Torpedoes.

A full load of Mark 18-1 torpedoes was carried on this patrol. No
great difficulty was encountered in the routines and upkeep. One charging check
valve was chipped while gaging the air pressure and was later repaired by tender
force at Saipan. Three hydrogen burning coils were replaced and one battery re-
placed during the fifth week of the patrol. Two officers, all torpedomen's
mates, strikers, and four electricians mates attended a four day school at Pearl
Harbor just prior to the start of patrol and the instruction proved very beneficial.
The charging and routine cycle covered a seven day period, the average charge being
four hours. SubPac maintenance instructions dated September 1944 were used as a
guide. This ship favors the electric fish and hopes to carry a full load on
the next patrol.

2. Tubes.

In making the tubes ready, the ready to fire lever would not raise on
#6 tube because the interlock chain drive was out of adjustment. The casualty was
quickly corrected but not in time to fire the tube. This casualty has happened
once before (#3 tube) during trials at Newport. The turnbuckle lock nuts were
found secure so the reason is advanced that the chain could have stretched enough
to cause the interlocks to fail to line up for engagement.

3. Gunnery.

The 40mm carried and used, gave no trouble and had no casualties. Al-
though it was routined once a week we believe improper
loading has been the cause of missfires experienced by some boats. It is easy to
load the clip improperly.

- 9 -

— page 99 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(L) RADIO - MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

1. DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

Very little trouble was experienced with the radio gear.

A glass-enclosed resistor in the line filter of the TBL-12 motor-
generator burned out. The glass was broken - probably due to depth charging.

In the LM-18 Frequency meter V101 was burned out.

The main power relay in the VHF (RT-19/ARC-4) failed. As there are
no spare parts at all for this equipment, a jumper was soldered across the relay.

A loose connection developed in the Receiver Attenuator Unit for the
RBH, the connection breaking whenever the ship rolled to port.

2. RECEPTION AND TRANSMISSION.

BAKERS SCHEDULE:

4370 - Loud signal but several close stations caused very poor reception
       with possible indications of jamming. No definite indications except
       random code of Japs characteristics.

9950 - Excellent for reception from about 1800 H until dawn. Used almost
       entirely at night with no indications of attempted jamming. A broad-
       cast station interfered slightly for about one hour each night but
       could be tuned out easily.

12630 - Best for day reception with fairly loud signal. Some fading ex-
        perienced off North Western Luzon. No indications of jamming.

16150 - Not stable enough to permit copying a complete message without tuning
        adjustments. Signal sharp and weak.

Ship-Shore Series:

One attempt was made the day before entering area to call-up on
8470 Kcs. No answer. Shifted to 12705 Kcs and after several attempts at calling
VIXO, called NQO, and VHM (location unknown) answered after first call. Trans-
mitted message with several group repeats. Authentication did not check but
decided to wait and see if message came out on BAKERS. Transmission was made
during early afternoon.

All other messages were transmitted on 12705 Kcs at night. Time
required to complete transmission varied from one-half to one hour. VHA/1
answered for two call-ups and gave our signal strength as 3 to 5. VIXO answered
once on frequency called and once on BAKERS. Signal strength not given. The
answer-up on BAKERS seems much more satisfactory than on the call-up frequency.
It permits VIXO to break more easily. Such procedure is often impossible, but
it is felt that it is much more reliable when conditions permit its use.

VHF transmission and reception with planes while on aircraft rescue
station was satisfactory.

- 91 -

— page 100 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(M) RADAR - Major Defects and Damage.

1. SJ-1 RADAR

The SJ worked exceptionally well after a long series of rather trying
troubles. Second trip echos way out at the end of the Main Sweep were the rule,
rather than the exception. A small PC boat was tracked out to 16,000 yards. Low
flying aircraft were picked up at range as great as 34,000 yards, and frequently
around 20,000 yards. Many contacts were made at elevation as high as 20° but most
of these plane ranges were 10,000 yards or less. The SJ proved to be an excellent
detector of low flying aircraft, and doubtless we saved ourselves much trouble
many times by diving when the SJ showed rapidly closing aircraft contacts. The
only time we were bombed by aircraft was when the SJ was being used to listen only.
It also proved very helpful as a navigational aid.

The echo box proved to be an extremely fine piece of test equipment to
give a running check of power output and overall tuning, as well as giving an in-
dication of the crystal's efficiency and the conditions of the T-R tube.

We had one peculiar Magnetron which had a very high power output, but
also very critical tuning. If the tuning was not perfect, it would jump into multi-
moding. With the aid of the echo box we got very good operation from this tube.

It would save much valuable time and effort during tracking if a selsyn
true bearing indicator were mounted above the SJ, near the range scale.

With the SJ in the best of tune (proved by tracking a U.S. Submarine
to 16,000 yards the same day) small islands from 500 to 800 foot elevation could
be picked up by eye before by radar. Visibility was excellent, however, and the
initial radar pickup of 500 ft. islands is about 70,000 yards.

We are at a loss to explain the picking up on the APR of the SJ
when on standby. This occurred at 285 Mc, and sounded like a 1200 C.W. note.

REPRESENTATIVE RANGES ARE AS FOLLOWS
2nd trip echos at end of Main sweep

| OBJECT | INITIAL RANGE | LAST RANGE |
|---|---|---|
| and (7000 ft) | 34,000 | 34,000 |
| aircraft | 14,000 | 14,000 |
| Large UN-2 | 20,000 | 20,000 |
| Medium AP | 20,000 | 20,000 |
| Unknown type escort | 12,000 (periscope up) | 15,000 |
| Sub (U.S.) | 14,000 | 22,000 |
| patrol vessels | 34,000 | 34,000 |
| Main squall | | |
| aircraft 20° elevation (calm sea) | 8,000 | |
| Sea Truck | 7,200 | 10,500 |
| Small Patrol vessel (Lombok Strait) | 8,200 | |

- 92 -

— page 101 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

SJ-1 Radar Cont'd.

The most common trouble was arcing in the PPI CRT High Voltage rectifier
circuit at the base of the 705A. This always happened after periods of silent
running, when the moisture content in the air was almost saturation. This arcing
could always be detected by its sound.

The grade of 5HP1 Cathode Ray tubes and of 6AC7 Amplifier tubes is
very poor. The CRT's all had astigmatism, and several were found to have no in-
tensity control. It was found necessary to test every 6AC7 prior to using.

Modulation Networks continue to leak oil after long periods of con-
tinuous operation.

TABULATED LIST OF TROUBLES

Symptom: PPI showed no sweeps, only spot in center.
Trouble: Deflection coil opened. Bearings also in poor condition.
Remedy: Replaced with coil supplied by Pearl Harbor, Sub Base (November 8).

Symptom: Jump range step.
Trouble: V-510, (6AC7) low emission.
Remedy: Replaced. (November 19).

Symptom: Modulation Network started leaking much more oil than usual.
Remedy: Replaced with spare, and refilled old one with high grade mineral oil.
Power output of set seemed to increase when new Network was put in.
(November 20).

Symptom: Maximum echo height obtainable before saturation about one half inch.
Trouble: Tops of grass saturated.
Remedy: Deflection Video, V-6, 6AG7 weak emission.
Replaced. The set operated normally for a few minutes, and then the
scope lost its sweep, had jagged lightning-like flashes and a bright
vertical line. Reg. Rect. E voltage dropped to about 240 volts,
fluctuating quite a bit. Smoke started coming out of the Range In-
dicator. We assumed the trouble to be in the deflection circuit, and
found the new 6AG7 we had just put in to have its paint burned off.
We put in another one, and set resumed normal operation. (November 29).

Symptom: High Voltage fuses blew. Men in Conning tower saw a flash in trans-
mitter and heard sound like arcing. Whenever we took the transmitter
out of its case it worked perfectly, but as soon as it was put back
in the fuses would blow, sometimes right away and sometimes after a few
hours of satisfactory operation.
Trouble: Found burned spot on HV lead from Trans. Rcur. Term 20 to Term 4 of
Mod. Network. Also found V8, (VR 150-30) to be loose in its socket.
Remedy: Rewired the burned HV lead and replaced in its socket the VR tube.
The depth charging of the previous day probably knocked this tube
loose. If this tube were not operating, the bias generator voltage
would be much too (negatively) high, hence ON TIME MV would give in-
correct output, and bias on 5D21 would drop, causing it to conduct
very heavily. This may have been the trouble, and the flash seen
could have been the 5D21 glowing under heavy conduction. In any case,

- 93 -

— page 102 —
U.S.S. GLENNY (SS324)

SJ-1 RADAR Cont'd.

after re-wiring the HV lead and seating the VR tube in its socket, the
set operated correctly. (December 2).

Symptom: HV Rect Current 220, HV Rect Voltage 0.6 with HV Variac Max.
Trouble: Bad 836 in HV Rect.
Remedy: Replaced both of them. Life was about 2,000 hours. (December 5).

Symptom: Trace on Range Ind. dimmed and vanished.
Trouble: CRT 5HP1 low emission.
Remedy: Replaced. First replacement had extremely poor focus - astigmatism.
Second replacement had extremely bright trace, very poor focus, and
no intensity control. Third replacement had rather poor focus -
astigmatism. (December 5).

Symptom: Sweep shortened when IF Gain was increased. Reg Rect B voltage dropped
to 260 when gain was maximum.
Trouble: Bad 5U4G in Reg Rect B.
Remedy: Replaced both of them. (December 6) (Life was about 600 hours)

Symptom: Jumpy step.
Trouble: C-539 and R-537 out of adjustment.
Remedy: Readjusted them (December 7).

Symptom: Arcover at base of 705A in PPI after silent running.
Remedy: Washed socket with alcohol; painted all nearby metal parts with
Glyptol; installed 50 watt lamp near 705A. None of these remedies
helped - arcing always comes when there is very high humidity. Best
remedy found was to disconnect 115 input to PPI until dry. (Dec. 10).

Symptom: HV Rect Current very high; sweep on PPI fuzzy; Reg Rect A voltage too
low.
Trouble: Bad 5U4G.
Remedy: Replaced both of them. Life about 1,000 hours. (December 11).

Symptom: Trace on Range Ind. very bright and no intensity control.
Trouble: Probably focus and intensity grids shorted in 5HP1.
Remedy: Replaced with last good spare, which had rather poor focus - astigmatism.
(December 11).

Symptom: Bright spot in center of PPI. No sweep.
Trouble: Loose fuse clip in 450 volt line. (December 15).

Symptom: Sea return less than normal; Echo-box microammeter reading lower than
normal; false echo shorter than usual; dip in ringing time just after
transmitted pulse.
Trouble: Magnetron weak and bad TR tube.
Remedy: Replaced Magnetron, TR tube, Xtal and Local Oscillator. Magnetron
and LO had about 2,000 hours, TR tube and Xtal had about 500 hours.
Returned set. The normal reading on the echo box meter was about
65 with the old Magnetron; with the new one it read 100 (Max deflection
with 1.3 S.W. ratio). (December 22).

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— page 103 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

OWN COUNTERMEASURES GEAR Cont'd.

The accuracy of the pulse-width measurements by the SPA is greatly
doubted. Using sine-wave calibration on the SJ pulse, and measuring between half-
power points, a pulse width of 2½ micro seconds is obtained.

The present APR antenna pattern has a sharp null directly forward.
This null could be put to use as a means of taking a bearing on radar signals if
the antenna was rotatable.

It would be a good idea to feed the SJ video signal into the SPA in
order to analyze SJ interference.

- 95 -

— page 104 —
U.S.S. ELENNY (SS324)

SJ-1 RADAR Cont'd.

Symptom: Intensity jumping, sometimes with roll of ship or shock.
Trouble: One of the IF tubes - 6AC 7's.
Remedy: Replaced all tubes in IF strip as tubes had about 2,000 hours.
(December 26).

2. SD RADAR.

The SD was used very little, and was very unreliable. That is many
sight and SJ plane contacts were made at 15,20, or 30° elevation that were not
seen on SD. It must be said, however, that at the time when we least expected it
to work and when we needed it the most, it came through very well, and gave con-
sistant ranges of about 1.5 miles.

The main source of trouble was in the mast. When we left Pearl the
minimum resistance reading between conductors, or between the lowest conductor
and ground was 10 megohms. This reading had dropped to about 200,000 ohms by
December 10. The decline was gradual, and items such as deep dives silent running
and depth charging seemed to lower the resistance. It is believed that the mast
did not leak, but rather moisture condensed on the ceramic spacers in the mast.
The mast had been "pulled" on rather a damp night back at Pearl. Such efforts as
washing the head with fresh water and alcohol helped very little. If the SD mast
were pressurized, perhaps there would be no condensation or leakage. This might
be done by putting nitrogen in small "soda-water charging" bottles, and having a
fitting right on the mast.

Other troubles were minor, probably because the set was used so little.
Two 8014A's were replaced, (the symptoms were double pulsing) one CRT was replaced
due to rather poor focus and intensity control. Gunfire from our 5" gun knocked
conductors from jaws at base of mast.

3. IFF GEAR

Very little trouble was had with this equipments. In the BN, two
6AC7's were replaced when no grass was obtainable on the screen.

The suggested method of testing for quench oscillations in the ABK
worked well. It is to listen on any radio at 300 Kcps for the hiss. This works
well submerged.

4. OWN COUNTERMEASURES GEAR.

The APR turned out to be an extremely valuable and dependable piece
of equipment. The only trouble experienced with it was the turning out of the
"Power-On" light. It was operated every night and day we spent on the surface.
The lower unit of the APR was the most useful, for most of our bothersome aircraft
radar contacts were within the range of this unit.

The SPA evidently was not designed for continuous operation. We were
under the impression it was until the insulation in the power transformer melted
and the high voltage winding shorted. After the transformer was replaced the
general procedure was to leave the SPA turned off until a contact was heard on the
APR.

- 96 -

— page 105 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)
APR CONTACTS

Contact No. | Date | Times | Lat | Long | Freq | PW | PRF | AR | Sketch | Remarks
1. | 11/20/44 | 1800-1915 | 17-50.5 | 151-14 | 200 | ? | ? | ? | | SPA out. Could be SC, SA, SK or Jap. Quite strong.
2. | 11/20/44 | 1900-1915 | 17-50.5 | 151-14 | 250 | 60 | ? | ? | | Probable image of above SC, SA or SK; possible Jap. Quite strong.
3. | 11/21/44 | 1400 | 16-55 | 147-31 | 117 | 60 | ? | ? | | Probable SD. Seen only on SD screen. Couldn't pick up on APR. Evidently an SD, keyed as was ours. SPA out.
4. | 11/21/44 | 2032 | 16-44.2 | 143-34.4 | 110 | 60? | ? | ? | | Very weak, probably SD or SCR 270. SPA out.
5. | 11/21/44 | 2200 | 16-39.5 | 146-17 | 112 | 621 | 1/2 | | | Loud and clear. SCR 270 or 271. SPA out.
6. | 11/22/44 | 2400-0300 | 16-54 | 146-50 | 219 | 400 | Rndm | | | Loud and clear. Probably Jap Land based. SPA out.
7. | 11/22/44 | 2400-0056 | 16-54 | 146-50 | 220 | 200 | Rndm | | | Not strong. Probably Jap land based. SPA out.
8. | 11/23/44 | 1730-1735 | 15-10 | 144-10 | 180 | 60 | ? | ? | | Very weak. SPA out.
9. | 11/23/44 | 1810 | 14-15 | 144-04.2 | 218 | 400 | 3 | | | Very weak. SPA out.
10. | 11/23/44 | 1810 | 14-15 | 144-04.2 | 218 | 1500 | 3 | | | Very weak. SPA out.
11. | 11/23/44 | 1810 | 14-15 | 144-04.2 | 205 | 1500 | 1-3 | | | Very weak. SPA out.
12 & 13 | 11/24/44 | 1835 | 15-20.8 | 143-57.5 | 209 | 400 | ? | ? | | Very weak. SPA out. Same as 9 & 10 above; also appx. same time. Seems 9&10 are from same source as 12&13. Maybe ship's noises.
14. | 11/27/44 | 2325 | 20-32.5 | 122-57 | 155 | 1000 | Rndm | | | Quite strong. Probably Jap patrol plane. Evidently keying.

* In all cases APR gain is max.
- 97 -

— page 106 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

Contact | Date      | Lat     | Freq | PW   | AP  | Sketch   | Remarks
No.     | Times     | Long    | PPI  | PRF  |     |          |
|||------|------|-----||

— page 107 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

Contact | Date      | Lat     | Freq | PW   | PRF      | AR   | Sketch                 | Remarks
No.     | Times     | Long    |      |      |          |      |                        |

24.     | 12/6/44   | 15-46   | 148  | 5    | 0-400    | None | [Image of a wavy line] | We were just surfacing after hav-
        | 0110-0345 | 118-44.2|      |      | Steady   |      |                        | ing been bombed with no APR warning
        |           |         |      |      | 250-350  |      |                        | Weather rainy, and much thunder &
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | lightning. Low clouds. This
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | contact sounded like interference
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | on radio of small electric motor
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | under varying load.
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | Started off weak and slow, steadied around 300 pps. SPA gain 3 for start of
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | saturation. Sometime prf raced to 500 pps on meter, but sounded like no more
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | than 80. When it stopped it stopped suddenly. Later picked it up from 120-180
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | Mc. with max. signal around 150. After most of the night below surface it
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | suddenly quit. Assumed to be St. Elmo's fire. Storm too rough for aircraft. A
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | later case proved this to be St. Elmo's fire.

25.     | 12/7/44   | 16-31   | 110  |      | 400 appx.|      |                        | Very weak.
        | 0420      | 119-37  |      |      |          |      |                        |

26.     |           |         | 157  | 7    | 1000     |      | Same                   | Too weak. Looked like aircraft
        |           |         |      |      |          |      | as 14                  | radar.

27.     | 12/8/44   | 16-07   | 225  |      |          |      |                        | Grass raised to ½" on screen.
        | 1930-1933 | 119-24  |      |      |          |      |                        | Seemed slowly keyed. SPA gain
        |           |         |      |      |          |      |                        | max.

28.     | 12/9/44   | 15-52   | 250  |      |          |      |                        | Same as 27.
        | 0445      | 118-27  |      |      |          |      |                        |

29.     | 12/10/44  | 15-43.7 | 154  | Aprx | 1000     | 10   | Same                   | Aircraft probably.
        | 0002      | 119-7.6 |      |      |          |      | as 14                  |

30.     | 12/13/44  | 15-44   | 150  | 9    | 1000     |      | Same                   | Aircraft probably. Weak.
        | 2240-2250 | 119-35  |      |      |          |      | as 14                  |

31.     | 12/14/44  | 15-24.2 | 113  |      | 400 apprx|      |                        | Probable land based early
        | 0515      | 119-00  |      |      |          |      |                        | warning. Weak.

32.     | 12/15/44  | 16-16.5 | 113  |      | 400 apprx|      |                        | Probable land based early
        | 0445      | 119-33  |      |      |          |      |                        | warning. Weak.

33.     | 12/16/44  | 16-06   | 113  |      | 400 apprx|      |                        | Probable land based early
        | 0510      | 119-26  |      |      |          |      |                        | warning. Weak.

34.     | 12/18&19  | 16-19   | 113  | 40   | 350      | IRR  | [Image of a wavy line] | Land based, probable early warn-
        | 2340 Pick | 119-38  |      |      |          |      |                        | ing radar. Many side lobes very
        | up. 0040  | 16-25.9 |      |      |          |      |                        | poor directivity. Probably same
        | Strongest | 119-41.8|      |      |          |      |                        | station as contact 25, 31, 32,
        | 0215 Lost | 16-15.6 |      |      |          |      |                        | and 33. Intensity changed as we
        |           | 119-36.9|      |      |          |      |                        | changed course.

                                                                                                                            - 99 -

— page 108 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

Contact | Date | Lat | Freq | PW | Sketch | Remarks
No | Times | Long | PRF | AR | |
35. | 12/14/44 | 15-55 | 155 | | Same | Probable aircraft radar. Weak.
| 2156 | 119-41.2 | 1000 | | as 14 |
36. | 12/14/44 | 15-59 | 155 | 8-10 | Same | Probable aircraft radar. Weak.
| 2300 | 119-41 | 1000 | | as 14 | Didn't reach saturation with max
| | | | | | gain setting.
37. | 12/14/44 | 15-59 | 155 | 8-10 | Same | Probably same as 36. Lobe as
| 2300-2315 | 119-41 | 1000 | | as 14 | it was strong.
38. | 12/15/44 | 16-17.8 | 154 | 9 | Same | Probably same as 37. Lobe as
| 0450 | 119-32 | 1000 | | as 14 | it was strong.
39. | 12/17/44 | 16-19.9 | 80 | 30 | [Sketch] | Lookout sighted plane - Dove.
| 1130 | 118-31.1 | 900 | | | May have been aircraft radar.
| | | | | | Very weak.
40. | 12/21/44 | 17-59.2 | 180 | 6 | [Sketch] | Probable ship or land radar. Sat
| 1200-1250 | 118-50 | 250 | IRR | | pulse at SPA gain 10. We were
| | | | | | on course 270 when picked up.
41. | 12/23/44 | 16-55 | 160 | 8 | Same | Seemed to be rotating. Not
| 0535 | 120-05 | 1200 | | as 14 | strong. Aircraft or land based.
42. | 12/25/44 | 16-53.5 | 160 | 6 | Same | Probably aircraft radar. Seemed
| 0205 | 119-57.2 | 1000 | | as 14 | to have many side lobes. Weak.
43. | 12/25/44 | 17-11 | 180 | 3-4 | [Sketch] | Possibly ship based or land based.
| 2115-2125 | 119-56.5 | 600 | IRR | | May have had lobe switching. Not
| | | | | | strong.
44. | 12/26/44 | 16-56.2 | 158 | 4 | Same | Aircraft radar. Not too strong -
| 2000-2150 | 120-065 | 1000 | IRR | | as 14 | didn't reach saturation with max
| | | | | | gain setting.
45. | 12/27/44 | 17-15.2 | 85 | | [Sketch] | Fast rotation. Possibly 2 radars
| 0523 | 120-20 | 300-400 | 6-15 | | or lobe switching. Not strong.
46. | 12/27/44 | 17-05 | 158 | 3 | Same | Aircraft radar.
| 2020-2035 | 119-46 | 1000 | | as 14 |
47. | 12/29/44 | 15-50.8 | 159 | 6 | Same | Aircraft radar.
| 1925 | 119-35.8 | 1000 | | as 14 |
48. | 12/30/44 | 15-29.5 | 180 | 2 | Same | Possibly aircraft radar, but
| 0934 | 119-43 | 600 | | as 43 | doubtful. Max. gain for unsat.
| | | | | | echo 8. SJ had closing plane
| | | | | | contact at the time.
49. | 1/1/45 | 14-01.5 | 115 | 10 | | Probably another SD.
| 0830 | 117-13 | 60 | | |

- 100 -

— page 109 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS.

     1.     JP.

          The JP gave very satisfactory operation, picking up many contacts
which visually showed only smoke beyond the horizon. With a skilled operator,
the JP is invaluable for giving information leading to attack and evasive tactics
during depth chargings.

          Best results for searching were obtained using the 500 and 3000 cycle
bands. Pinging could be heard clearly on any scale up to an estimated range at
times as great as 20,000 yards.

          The only operational difficulty encountered was a loose packing gland
at the bottom or the top of the hydrophone cable. The loose gland would permit
the cable to rotate slightly, and this slight rotation created a scratching noise
in the earphones.

          The crystal headset phones presented another problem. These phones
will not operate correctly if they are the slightest bit damp. With tropic con-
ditions and frequent silent running periods, it is impossible to prevent the
operator from perspiring and wetting the phones. With continuous operation, two
sets of these sensitive phones are inadequate, as the drying-out process takes
about 12 hours. It should be emphasized that the phones will get wet from actual
perspiration if they are used without the sponge rubber protectors. The best way
to keep phones dry was found to be to let them air three or four hours after each
use, put them in a dehydrating can overnight, and then to keep them in a water-
tight container.

     2.     QB-2.

          The QB, JK-QC worked very well until we scraped the bottom with them
while trying to avoid depth charges. After this, the JK-QC appeared to be flooded
on the JK side. The QB seemed to operate correctly electrically, but operation
was not feasible due to a bent shaft.

          The only other operational difficulties were in the electrical training
circuit. Probably due to too rapid and jerky training of the heads, the cushioning
capacitor C-1001 became shorted, and this in turn burned out resistor R-1005, which
is in series with it. It might be added that when the condensor popped, it was
so loud that it could be heard in the Wardroom.

          Before firing at an AP, a single ping range of 1400 yards was taken
with the QB, apparently without alerting the enemy. On another occasion an un-
successful single ping range was attempted when less than 1000 yards from a DD,
presumably of the German Wolf class, without alerting this escort.

          Sound conditions close to shore were poor due to background conditions
and mixing of fresh and salt water.

- 101 -

— page 110 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324).

(10) DENSITY LAYERS

1. The majority of BT cards taken in the area adjacent to the west coast
of Luzon indicated an isothermal layer extending to a depth of 100 feet followed by
a negative gradient of two degrees. In all cases where evasive action was taken,
evasive actions were taken at the best evasive depth.

When operating close to the beach soundings and noise from the
the BT trace were unreliable. In general sound conditions were poorer than
expected. This was due partially to back ground noise from the beach and
mostly to what the operators termed "fresh water" run off.

In all cases where evasive action was taken no enemy succeeded in
never succeeded in making more than two close attacks. It was impossible to
determine if this was due to good evasive depth, the use of good evasive maneuvers
or the fact that the enemy continued his attacks before the noise of his previous
depth charges had died out.

- 102 -

— page 112 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(C) PERSONNEL.

The performance of officers and crew during an arduous 63 day patrol
was of the highest order and in the opinion of the Commanding Officer could not
have been improved upon. Thirty one days were spent in the patrol area during
which 5 submerged attacks, 1 surface attack, 3 gun attacks were made. The ship
was closely depth charged on three occasions, and was bombed by aircraft
on the surface at night. During this period, 100% of the personnel
had numerous surprise night dives. In addition, 100% of the personnel
spent in close inshore submerged patrolling. The ship was subjected to
frequent rough weather which was weathered on the surface. All of the
officers and 54 men of which were on their first patrol performed in an
efficient, cheerful, heads up performance of duty that was above reproach.
Only one man became incapacitated for duty. This man,
CMM, USN, veteran of 5 S-boat patrols, collapsed on watch after determining
of nervous and physical exhaustion. This was most commendable
and radar gear up to this point was deserving of special praise. It is
that the submarine school and other training facilities make it a point to acquaint
personnel in training for duty in submarines with the fact that every night,
activity puts submarine patrolling on a 24 hour a day alert as never before.

Special commendation is deserving the Executive Officer, Lieutenant
Com.

— page 113 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED.

(Base to area (Pearl Harbor, T.H.) 5197 miles 63517 gallons)

(In area 4587 miles 35991 gallons)

(Area to base (Fremantle) 4205 miles 54000 gallons)

(S) DURATION.

(Days enroute to area 19
(Days in area 31
(Days enroute to base 13
(Days submerged 23

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

Torpedoes Fuel Provisions Personnel Factor
Number Gallons Days Days
0 2000 7 7

Limiting factor this patrol - Torpedoes.

- 105 -

— page 114 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

1. ENEMY RADIO COUNTERMEASURES.
No definite indications of radio code as well as allied war board which may or may not have been used by the enemy were observed. It did not appear to be a serious problem.

2. ENEMY RADAR COUNTERMEASURES.
The most common type of radar was a 1000 PRF set. There were many instances of planes as well as his ships. However, these planes and usually intermittent. The only way planes were known to be operating in conjunction with SJ could have been experienced. We never picked up a DE or PC on the SJ at any time we experienced.

There were no indications of jamming as experienced on the SJ at any time. In every case this interference was just a short flash, and could easily have been from some electrical disturbance on our own set.

The first flash occurred when we were investigating a long trail of phosphorescence. The SJ slowly rose almost to saturation and then slowly dropped to normal. This only happened once, and the phenomenon lasted only a few minutes.

On December 25, at 0500, Lat. 16-40 North and Long. 140-10 East, bearing 080(T), a series of wide noise pulses appeared on the SJ screen. These pulses were not saturation, but were about the same PRF as our SJ. This interference lasted only a few minutes, and interfered very little with the operation of the set.

On entering the area we were suspicious that the Japs might know our SJ. After 31 days in the area we had no evidence that such was the case.

A tabulated list of all other radar contacts is enclosed.

-- 106 --

— page 115 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(V) REMARKS GENERAL.

All shipping sighted in the area hugged the coast inside the 100 fathom
curve and apparently travelled only in daytime with all escorts outboard and
targets and avoid discovery appeared to be to patrol on or within the 100 fathom
curve thereby minimizing possibility of discovery by escorts and insuring reason-
ably close firing range. After an attack or two escorts were detached to hold
us down, generally for but a relatively short time. A wolf pack spaced a few miles
apart along the 100 fathom curve in such areas could very likely take advantage
of the confusion existing following the first boats attack and the diversion of
escorts. Patrolling close inshore along the western coast of Luzon is much easier
and safer than most other places where the shallow water area is wider, currents
more prevalent, and navigational land marks less frequent.

Night aircraft search employed by the Japs was a nuisance but it was
desultory and apparently not coordinated with surface search. As long as the APR
and SJ are used it is possible to dive in sufficient time to avoid bombing. Their
aircraft radar appears none too good. The APR is affected strongly by electrical
storms and St. Elmos fire and gives indications of strong radar interference at
such times. Use of the SJ both day and night gave many timely warnings of approach-
ing aircraft. At night when aircraft generally fly low to sight you, it picks
them up in sufficient time to get under. The SD was sometimes turned on to verify
strong AIR contacts that the SJ would not pick up. We found that when the SPA
screen showed a saturation pip with gain setting reduced from a maximum of 10 to
4½, the aircraft was closer than 5 miles and it was high time to dive.

The five movies taken on patrol proved a fine morale builder. Any effort
made in procuring these films is amply justified from a morale standpoint.

Press news received on regular Baker schedules seemed unnecessarily
meager and irregular. That which was received was greatly appreciated. Any effort
to put news out when the circuit is not busy is fully justified from its benefit
to morale.

The Commanding Officer deeply regrets the paucity of returns for the
expenditure of 24 torpedoes on a 63 day patrol. However, he considers it to have
been the busiest and most interesting patrol he has made and feels that the ex-
perience gained from his mistakes will be productive of better results in the future.

(a) Number of men on board during patrol - 9 Officers, 78 enlisted men.
(b) Number of men qualified at start of patrol - 33
(c) Number of men qualified at end of patrol - 50
(d) Number of unqualified men making their first patrol - 44
(e) Number of men advanced in rating during patrol - 6

- 107 -

— page 116 —
FC5-26/A16-3
Serial ( 028)

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

FIRST ENDORSEMENT To
USS BLENNY ltr.
SS324/A9 Serial 01
dated 1/13/45.

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

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of First War Patrol.

1. The first war patrol of U.S.S. BLENNY was conducted in the South
China Sea off the West Coast of Luzon. It lasted for a period of sixty-four (64)
days of which thirty-nine (39) days were spent north of the barrier under the
operational control of Commander Task Force 71.

2. Excellent area coverage is demonstrated by the numerous ship cont-
acts made in waters heavily patrolled by enemy aircraft and anti-submarine vessels.
Twenty-four torpedoes were fired in six attacks with the following results.

Attack No. 1. After having submerged ahead of an approaching DE three elec-
tric torpedoes were fired by periscope in a "down the throat" set up. A small
change of course by the target was apparently sufficient to cause all torpedoes
to miss and a moderately close depth charge attack followed.

Attack No. 2. Three electric torpedoes were fired at a DE during a surface
radar approach following an end around run. This well executed attack resulted
in two hits which sank the target.

Attack No. 3. Followed a periscope approach on an escorted, troop laden
freighter-transport similar to the AFRICAN MARU. Five timed hits were heard from
six electric torpedoes fired and spray and smoke completely obscured the target
following which characteristic breaking up noises were heard. A fairly accurate
depth charge attack by the escort prevented further observation.

Attack No. 4. Was a multiple attack on two new construction tankers and a
medium troop laden transport of a four ship convoy with three escorts, including
one destroyer. Following a periscope approach, during which an advantageous
position was obtained, three torpedoes were fired at each of the two tankers and
two at the transport. A four power range error caused by improperly reading the
telemeter scale caused all but one torpedo to miss; this torpedo hit an uniden-
tified vessel of the convoy. Failure to use the stadimeter or attempt a ping
range with such valuable targets at stake is not understood. It is noted that 8
torpedoes were fired in 2 minutes and 35 seconds.

Attack No. 5. Followed a periscope approach and two electric torpedoes were
fired at a DE when BLENNY was unable to reach a firing position on the convoy.
Torpedoes were fired on a 19° track and missed when the target changed course to
head for the submarine. A fairly severe depth charge attack followed but no
appreciable damage was sustained.

- 1 -
[STAMP: 4 01702]SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY SIX.
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
21 January 1945

— page 117 —
FC5-26/A16-3
Serial ( 028 )
C O N F I D E N T I A L

FIRST ENDORSEMENT To
USS BLENNY ltr.
SS324/A9 Serial 01
dated 1/13/45.

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of First War Patrol.

1. Attack No. 6. Was a periscope attack on a medium transport following a
7-hour end around run. Two electric torpedoes were fired from a range of 1300
yards and both missed. This target was escorted by two German "Wolf" type
destroyers which made an ineffectual depth charge attack.

2. On 14 December 1944 a 250-ton sea truck was destroyed by gunfire.

3. It is considered that the SJ radar was not effectively used
during the first part of the patrol and that the Commanding Officer was unduly
concerned about the "interference" over the SJ radar. Several contacts made
by periscope at dawn may have been discovered earlier, had the SJ been used for
searching, and developed into successful attacks.

4. The material condition of BLENNY upon her return from patrol was
excellent. She will be refitted by EURYALE and number one relief crew of
Submarine Division 181.

5. The health and morale of the officers and crew is excellent.

6. The Squadron Commander welcomes BLENNY and congratulates the
Commanding Officer, officers and crew on a successful first patrol during which
important damage was inflicted on the enemy and valuable experience gained by
the ship.

[STAMP: 20310 B]

SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY SIX

Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California,
21 January 1945

[SIGNATURE: L. J. Huffman]
L. J. HUFFMAN.

— page 118 —
FE24-71/A16-3 UNITED STATES NAVY 14/pr
Serial 0233 31 January 1945.
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLENNY Conf. Ltr.
A9 Serial 01, dated 13
January 1945. Report of
First War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of First War
Patrol - Comment on.

1. The First War Patrol of the BLENNY, under the
command of Commander W. H. HAZZARD, U.S.N., was conducted in the
SOUTH CHINA SEA in the areas west of LUZON.

2. The first attack took place on 1 December when three
torpedoes were fired down-the-throat at a DE. All missed. The
second attack on 14 December was a very skillfully executed night
surface attack upon another DE, but this time three torpedoes
produced two hits which exploded the magazines and sank the target.
The third attack, on 23 December, was a submerged attack on a large
escorted transport loaded with many troops. An excellent firing
position was gained, and following a single ping range at 1400 yards,
six torpedoes were fired with an average run of 1100 yards. Five
hits were observed and the target blew up and sank so rapidly that
few troops are believed to have escaped. The fourth attack,
submerged on 27 December, was pressed home in a most commendable
manner, but six torpedoes produced only one hit, which damaged an
unidentified ship. The Commanding Officer presents a lucid
discussion of this attack, and suggests a reason for its limited
success. On 31 December the fifth attack was made unsuccessfully on
a DE. The last attack took place on 2 January, when two torpedoes
fired from a very favorable submerged position were observed to pass
under a small AP escorted by two DD.

3. A gun attack on 14 December was well conducted,
resulting in 25 hits out of 47 rounds fired by the 5" gun. A small
sea truck was sunk in this attack.

4. Commander HAZZARD exhibited a fighting spirit and
tactical skill in gaining favorable firing position which was
particularly noteworthy. The experience in fire control procedure
gained by BLENNY during this patrol undoubtedly resulted in
[STAMP: RECEIVED
COMMANDER
SUBMARINES
SEVENTH FLEET
3 FEB 1945
01702]

- 1 -
908t

— page 119 —
FE24-71/A16-3
Serial 0233
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLENNY Conf. Ltr:
A9 Serial 01, dated 13
January 1945. Report of
First War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of First War
         Patrol - Comment on.

— page 121 —
UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET

A16-3(8)(F-3-4/jk)
Serial: [HANDWRITTEN: 01199]

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT on:
USS BLENNY Conf. Ltr.
A9 Serial 01, dated
13 January 1945.

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

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of First
War Patrol - Comment on.

1. Forwarded.

2. The Commander Seventh Fleet congratulates
the BLENNY for this successful patrol.

[STAMP: Reg. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 2810] [HANDWRITTEN: 130]
R. S. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 4 01702]]
[STAMP: 4 APR 1945]

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

Copy to:
ComSub7thFlt
ComSubRon 26
CO USS BLENNY

— page 122 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 1ST COPY]

SS324/A9
Serial 06

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324).
Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California
27 March 1945.

C-O-N [STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

From: The Commanding Officer, U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324).
To : The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Via : (1) The Commander Submarine Division TWO SIXTY TWO.
(2) The Commander Submarine Squadron TWENTY SIX.
(3) The Commander SUBMARINES, SEVENTH FLEET.
(4) The Commander SEVENTH FLEET.

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY, Report of War Patrol number TWO (2).

Enclosure: (A) Subject report.
(B) Two Track Charts.
(C) Four Drawings of scene of attacks.
(D) Log of Radio Receiving Conditions.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the second war patrol of this vessel
conducted in Cape Padaran to Camranh Bay section of the French Indo China Coast
during the period 5 February 1945 to 27 March 1945 is forwarded herewith

[SIGNATURE: W.H. HAZZARD.]
W.H. HAZZARD.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED-ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
[HANDWRITTEN: BY OP-09B9L DATE 5/24/72]

[HANDWRITTEN: 122710]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

— page 123 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(A) PROLOGUE

Arrived Fremantle, W.A. 13 January 1945 from first war patrol and
commenced refit by SubDiv 181 Relief Crew alongside U.S.S. EURYALE. The
major jobs accomplished were renewal of both sound heads which had been
damaged when scraping the bottom submerged, elimination of frequent cyling and
groaning of main hydraulic plant, overhaul of two main engines and auxiliary,
and renewal of noisy port propellor. Ship was docked in ARD-10 26 January
and undocked 27 January, 1945. Refit completed 28 January 1945. Commenced
training period 29 January which was completed 4 February and consisted of
one day post repair trials including sound testing, one day electronic testing
and calibration, one day of independent exercises, and three days of coordinated
attack training with CAVALLA and HOE. Three exercise torpedoes were fired.
Ship was not flashed. Lieutenant Commander H.E. Miller, USN was transferred
and Lieutenant N.A. Bickley, (D-L), USNR reported aboard. A total of 20
officers and 22 enlisted men were transferred and 22 reported aboard as replacements.

(B) NARRATIVE

The following officers and Chief Petty Officer were attached to
this ship during the second war patrol:

| NAME             | RANK OR RATE      | No. of War Patrols Including this one | Total |
| :| :| :| :---- |
| W.H. HAZZARD     | Commander, USN    | S-37                                  |       |
|                  |                   | SAURY                                 | 6     |
|                  |                   | BLENNY                                | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 12    |
| J.N. FELTON      | Lieut-Comdr., USNR| S-17                                  | 3     |
|                  |                   | BLENNY                                | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 5     |
| N.A. BICKLEY     | Lieutenant, USNR  | BLENNY                                | 1     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 1     |
| D.K. CALLOW      | Lieutenant, USNR  | S-18                                  | 4     |
|                  |                   | BLENNY                                | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 6     |
| J.K. IRVIN       | Lieutenant, USN   | BLENNY                                | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 2     |
| C.R. HASKI       | Lieutenant, USN   | TARPON                                | 10    |
|                  |                   | BLENNY                                | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 12    |
| E.H. EDWARDS, Jr | Lieutenant, USNR  | BLENNY                                | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 2     |
| D.R. STEVENS, Jr | Lieutenant (jg), USNR | BLENNY                              | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 2     |
| W.A. SPIES, Jr   | Lieutenant (jg), USNR | BLENNY                              | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 2     |
| ZARNOWSKI, A.    | CTM, USN          | SPEARFISH                             | 3     |
|                  |                   | BLENNY                                | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 5     |
| STEAD, J.L.      | CQM, USN          | S-22                                  | 3     |
|                  |                   | GURNARD                               | 3     |
|                  |                   | BLENNY                                | 2     |
|                  |                   |                                       | 8     |

- 1 -

— page 124 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(B) NARRATIVE Cont'd.

NAME                 RANK OR RATE       No. Of War Patrols
                                        Including this one     TOTAL
NASI, A.E.           CMOMM, USN         BLENNY                 2         2

EDMONDSON, J.H.      CMOMM, USN         PORPOISE               3
                                        PERCH                  3
                                        BLENNY                 2         8

CRAYTON, T.E.        CMOMM, USN         BLENNY                 2         2

BARNHART, A.S.       CEM, USN           S-32                   8
                                        BLENNY                 2        10

SMALLENBERGER, C.T.  CRM, USN           S-38                   3
                                        S-33                   1
                                        ROCK                   4
                                        BLENNY                 1         9

McGUIRE, W.V.        CEM, USN           PETO                   4
                                        BLENNY                 2         6

(All Times HOW)

FEBRUARY 5, 1945

1300      Underway from Fremantle W.A. enroute patrol area B-6. HMS BUNBERRY
          joined us in operating area and acted as target for submerged and
          surface approaches until

2300      Released BUNBERRY; set course for Exmouth via Joint Zone at 2
          engine speed.

2325      (Ship Contact No. 1) Exchanged greetings by SJ with ROCK returning
          from patrol.

FEBRUARY 6, 1945

          Underway enroute Exmouth conducting daily training dives, drills,
          and school of the boat.

FEBRUARY 7, 1945

0927      Received CTF 71 serial 28 instructing us to bypass Exmouth and
          suggesting use of economical cruising speed. Interpreted this to
          mean economical two engine cruising speed. Continuing enroute
          Lombok.

FEBRUARY 8, 1945

0428      Unsuccessfully tried to challenge SJ interference to SE.
                                        - 2 -

— page 125 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 8, 1945 Cont'd.

2015 (Ship Contact No. 2) Exchanged calls by SJ with CROAKER to SE.

FEBRUARY 9, 1945

2010 (Ship Contact No. 3) Exchanged greetings with southbound BESUGO.

2050 Stopped and lay to for two hours to silver solder leaking steering
ram hydraulic line coupling (original job done by Submarine Base,
Pearl Harbor).

2326 (Ship Contact No. 4) Conducted radar tracking drill on southbound
SJ equipped probable submarine who could not be communicated with
by SJ; minimum range 4800 yards.

FEBRUARY 10, 1945

0200 (Ship Contact No. 5) Exchanged calls by SJ with northbound HAWKBILL
who was astern of us.

0829 (Ship Contact No. 6) Sighted southbound GABILAN and by SJ was
informed all clear to north except for planes and 2 slow speed
patrol craft (presumably in Lombok).

0855 (Ship Contact No. 6) Sighted southbound KRAKEN and exchanged
greetings by SJ.

1715 (Ship Contact No. 7) Sighted what appeared to be two masted
schooner with brown sails hull down on horizon to eastward.

1838 27 miles south of Lombok circling to await darkness.

1845 (Ship Contact No. 7) HMS SPITEFUL surfaced about 4,000 yards to
southward and stood south. Exchanged greetings.

1909 Standing towards Lombok; saturation APR contact on 200 mcs with
gain setting 10.

1937 SJ radar interference to SW, probably HAWKBILL. Interference in-
dicated ship was northbound.

2132 Increased speed to full on 4 engines commenced passage of Lombok
Strait.

2150 APR contact on 200 mcs, 1000 PRF, 10ms, 1 RPM showed saturation
pip with gain setting reduced to 4½ as we approached within 7
miles of Nusa Besar and SW tip of Lombok indicating radar station
in operation on one of them. Steadied on our bearing several
times for short intervals but apparently never held us - nearest
approach to land 11,000 yards.

- 3 -

— page 126 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 10, 1945 Cont'd.

2234 (Ship Contact No. 8) SJ contact bearing 103(T) range 6,450 yards
on probable patrol which appeared stopped or on westerly course
at 6 knots or less. Lost patrol at 8,600 yards.

2258 (Ship Contact No. 9) SJ contact bearing 346(T) range 8,200 yards on
probable patrol which tracked on easterly course at about 3 knots.
No evidence either one sighted or heard us.

2345 (Plane Contact No. 1) SJ contact on plane bearing 245(T) range
17,500 which tracked on northwesterly course and shortly disappeared.

2359 Slowed to 2 engine speed.

FEBRUARY 11, 1945

0000 Cleared Lombok strait and set course to NE to favor Paternoster
Island side of position where BREHM reported sighting torpedo.

0608 Made half hour trim dive.

1030 Headed for Great Masalembo Island.

1215 (Plane Contact No. 2) Sighted DAVE to SW range about 7 miles which
first showed 100 starboard angle on bow, then zero.

1216. Submerged.

1353 Surfaced; apparently we were either not sighted or plane got tired
waiting.

1807 (Ship Contact No. 10) Sighted schooner with triangular sail to
westward. Assumed to be native craft and avoided to NW.

FEBRUARY 12, 1945

0050 Passed Great Masalembo Island abeam to starboard range 28,000 yards.

0541 Made 12 minute trim dive.

0559 (Ship contact No. 11) Sighted unidentified small vessel to south-
ward probably native sail boat and avoided to NW.

0748 Lat 05-06 S, 113-09 E. (Close to Annie Florence Shoal) Exploded
floating mine heavily encrusted with barnacles after making about 6
hits with 20 mm which dished in mine case before a hit on horn
detonated it. 160 rounds of 20 mm and 20 of 30 cal. expended.

- 4 -

— page 127 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 12, 1945 Cont'd.

1041 (Ship Contact No. 12) Sighted small 10 ton native schooner and
     closed to investigate. Crew consisted of about 10 Malays and
     schooner apparently was empty of cargo. The letters K.W. PEMBOEANG
     appeared across the stern and the word MASTIKA on bow. Gave crew
     two cartons of cigarettes, several tins of canned goods and departed
     friends.

1630 (Aircraft Contact No. 3) Sighted bomber or transport plane to SW
     with 90 port angle on bow range about 12 miles - submerged for 18
     minutes, plane not sighted on surfacing.

1815 Increased speed to 4 engine speed approaching south entrance of
     Karimata Strait headed for Discovery East Bank Lighthouse.

FEBRUARY 13, 1945

0000 SJ radar out of commission.

0125 Slowed to 2/3 approaching Lighthouse.

0130 Sighted Discovery East Bank Lighthouse dead ahead, estimated range
     8,000 yards.

0135 SJ in commission, range to Lighthouse 7,410 yards, resumed full
     speed on 4 generators.

0715 Completed transit of Karimata Strait passing between Flying Fish
     Reef and Condor Reefs, set course to NW.

0916 Made 10 minute trim dive proceeding at 2 engine speed on surfacing.

0947 (Ship Contact No. 13) Sighted 2 masted schooner hull down to SW.

1202 (Ship Contact No. 14) Sighted 2 masted schooner hull down to north.

1830 Slowed to 1 generator speed for night as desired to counteract for
     expenditure of fuel last night. Not having been forced to submerge
     for more than a 2 hour stretch, believe arrival on station will be
     in sufficient time to justify this.

2025 Crossed equator.

2038 Completed conversion of No. 4 FBT to normal ballast tank, 53 minutes
     required for topside conversion.

2130 Passed Pedjantan Island abeam to starboard range 15 miles; set
     course to northward to pass between Doemdoem and Mendarik Islands.

2140 Made 10 minute dive to flush out no 4 FBT.

- 5 -

— page 128 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 14, 1945

0623 Made 15 minute trim dive.
0900 Increased to 2 engine speed for better maneuverability and keyed SD
     as there is considerable cloudiness in sky.
1800 Slowed to 1 engine speed to conserve fuel.
2300 Pulo Laut Island abeam to starboard 25 miles.

FEBRUARY 15, 1945

0632 Made 9 minute trim dive; proceeding at 1 engine speed.
1318 Renewed 3 chattering brushes on number 2 motor. Pigtails were loose.
1924 (Ship Contact No. 17) SJ interference and radar contact on submarine
     believed to be CHARR bearing 068(T) range 12,500 yards. Exchanged
     recognition signals by SJ but unable to exchange calls. Contact
     tracked on southerly course at about 14 knots.
2010 Intercepted message on wolf pack frequency addressed to TUNA, PINTADO
     and HAWKBILL giving CHARR's position as substantially the same as our
     contact.

FEBRUARY 16, 1945

0400 Weather picking up with force 5 seas from NE accompanied by intermittent
     squalls, low visibility, and 25 knot wind.
0635 Made 9 minute trim dive.
1147 (Aircraft Contact No. 4) Sighted PB4Y on westerly course range about
     12,000 yards. Fired Buck Rogers rocket, plane circled and departed
     to westward. Unable establish VHF communications.
1534 Received CTF 71 serial 92 instructing GUAVINA, BECUNA, and BLENNY to
     form pack, BECUNA in charge, and patrol C-4.
1600 Entered SE corner of area C-4.
1658 Set course NW at auxiliary speed to conserve fuel deciding to patrol
     off shore tonight in expectation of a rendezvous message from BECUNA
     which probably will require a rendezvous well off coast. Also consider
     it unwise to close coast tonight for submerged patrol near Comranh
     Bay as it would require use of two engine speed all night in this sea
     (force 5) to make it.
1951 Received CW message broadcast by GUAVINA on Wolf pack frequency of
     contact with 2 escorts and 2 tankers northbound near Nhatrang Bay close
     to coast and 130 miles to NW of us. Heard PARGO in area to north
     receipt for it.

- 6 -

— page 129 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 17, 1945

0624 Made 17 minute trim dive and surfaced heading north at one engine
     speed. Decided that since nothing was received from BECUNA last
     night, will patrol north to latitude of Kamranh Bay and then head
     west during night to conduct submerged patrol south of Bay tomorrow.
     Expect BECUNA to arrive in area tonight.

0907 (Aircraft Contact No. 5) SJ contact at 11,000 yards on westbound low
     flying Liberator who emerged from low hanging rain clouds at 7,300
     yards. Called him using AA for call on VHF and was promptly answered.

1731 Sky clearing slightly to westward. Sighted unidentified mountain
     peaks to SW range about 40 miles.

1922 Set course west to close coast along northern boundary of area.

2015 Receipted for BECUNA's first transmission instructing Pack to form
     scouting line bearing 107(T) from Cape Padaran at distances as
     follows; GUAVINA (Wolf 1) 10 miles, BLENNY (Wolf 2) 25 miles, BECUNA
     (Wolf 3) 40 miles from Cape Padaran. Ordered to patrol assigned
     area independently and BECUNA stated her ETA on station was 2000/18th.
     Heard GUAVINA receipt for this (no position for last 48 hours) and then
     skirting coast on way south to station.

2145 Established position by radar 11 miles east of Pecheurs Isles. Closed
     to 6 miles on Isles and then stood south 8 miles off coast.

2300 When 17,000 yards due east of Tagne Island (Camranh Bay), APR
     contact on 209 Mcs 1000 PRF 8 Ms which rotated but shortly steadied
     down on us and gave saturation SPA pip with gain setting reduced
     from maximum of 10 to 4. Within a few minutes got another APR
     contact at about 202 Mcs 300 PRF 8 Ms of same strength. Opened to
     SE and apparently was tracked until 22,000 yards from land by both
     radars. Believed it likely one is located on Tagne Island or Camranh
     Point and other possibly on Hon Chut Island. Paralleled coast at
     13 miles and when NE of Cape Padaran headed for assigned point on
     scouting line. Passed SJ interference of GUAVINA on way.

FEBRUARY 18, 1945

0340 On station patrolling 5 miles east and west of point at 1 engine
     speed sky clearing.

0620 Made 14 minute trim dive.

0932 (Aircraft Contact No. 6). Sighted large unidentified north bound
     plane in direction of Cape Padaran range about 12 miles. Probably
     our PB4Y.

- 7 -

— page 130 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 18, 1945 Cont'd.

1234 (Aircraft Contact No. 7) Sighted large unidentified north bound plane
     in direction of Cape Padaran range about 12 miles.

1927 Patrolling on auxiliary.

2342 APR contact on 205 Mcs, very weak probably Comranh Bay radar.

FEBRUARY 19, 1945

0629 Made 15 minute trim dive; surfaced, patrolling on 1 main engine.

0928 BECUNA in sight by periscope to SE.

1345 (Aircraft Contact No. 8) Sighted liberator on northerly course range
     about 15 miles in direction of Cape Padaran.

2015 Exchanged calls with GUAVINA by SJ and closed towards her to better
     received message she was trying to send us.

2108 Message receipted for giving daylight sighting information to date,
     stating that convoys hugged coast within one mile and requesting
     relay of this message to BECUNA. Stood eastward to pick up BECUNA
     SJ.

FEBRUARY 20, 1945

0026 Range to BECUNA 9,000 yards. Transmitted GUAVINA's message and one of
     our own as follows: "In view close inshore traffic routing suggest
     two boats patrol submerged close to beach either one north and one
     south of Comranh or both south, four days at a stretch with alternate
     two day rest offshore surfaced". Shortly thereafter received message
     for relay to GUAVINA. "Tomorrow patrol close inshore off Padaran.
     BLENNY same off Hon Chong. BECUNA 15 to 30 miles off Padaran. To-
     morrow night BECUNA and GUAVINA exchange positions".

0032 Heading westward at two engine speed to pick up GUAVINA's SJ and relay
     message.

0115 Reversed course to eastward having received message from PARGO stating
     she had radar contact at 9,000 on target on course 170 speed 17.
     Targets track plotted to eastward of our position.

0143 Picked up BECUNA's SJ and asked if we could help with PARGO's contact.
     Answer was "sounds like small vessel at that range probably going
     to Comranh. Patrol your section, report all contacts". Reversed
     course.

0235 Sighted sudden flare up of orange colored light which illuminated sky
     and horizon bearing 340(T) from Lat 11-28 N, 109-55 E. Guessed this
     to be PARGO's contact and shortly thereafter heard Wolf Pack Frequency
     confirmation from PARGO saying, "She blew sky high".

- 8 -

— page 131 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 20, 1945 Cont'd.

0520 Relayed BECUNA's message to GUAVINA by SJ.
0622 Submerged about 2½ miles off Hon Chong.
0809 Heard first of about 100 explosions occurring until 1211 in the
     distance on approximate bearing of 210(T). Sounded like depth charges.
0826 Sighted heavy black smoke in direction of Padaran light billowing
     5,000 feet into air. Assume GUAVINA pickled a tanker.
0905 (Aircraft Contact No. 9) Sighted large unidentified plane to north
     ward headed into Comranh Bay.
0929 (Aircraft Contact No. 10) Sighted Liberator bearing 200(T) with zero
     angle on bow range 2 miles close to water.
0933 JP heard sound like pistol shots towards land.
0935 (Aircraft Contact No. 11) Sighted "Dave" maneuvering away from
     Liberator who now was on southerly course and to southward. This
     "Dave" retreated towards Phanrang Bay.
0936 (Aircraft Contact No. 12) Sighted another "Dave" towards beach low
     down headed south in direction of Liberator, range about 2000 yards.
0940 Sighted Liberator who had now reversed course and had zero angle on
     bow firing at "Dave" who twisted and turned, finally putting his
     tail to the Liberator and heading north low down over the sandy beach.
     Liberator pursued close on his trail and tracers could be seen
     passing the "Dave".
0943 Dave hit the beach and was enveloped in flames and black smoke 3000
     yards to westward in Lat 11-38.5 N, Long 109-09.5 E. Liberator
     jauntily banked, headed north, and was seen disappearing into Kamranh
     Bay looking for more float planes no doubt.
1120 (Aircraft Contact No. 13) Sighted Dave headed north over scene of his
     colleagues casualty.
1146 (Ship Contact No. 18) Lat 11-35 N, Long 109-12 E. Sighted large
     tanker and 2 escorts bearing 228(T) range 18,000 yards angle on bow
     15 port. Changed course to 009(T) to hug beach more closely and
     prolong approach for data taking. Both escorts were outboard of
     tanker.
1150 Pinging on 16 Kcs and fathometer heard in direction of targets.
     Tanker appears to be riding the 10 fathom curve on his fathometer.
     Sound gets 120 RPM on tanker.
1155 Battle Stations torpedo.

- 9 -

— page 132 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 20, 1945 Cont'd.

1211    Tanker now has about 20 starboard angle on bow at 7,800 yards.
        Changed course to 200(T) for bow shot and to get across and in-
        board of 2 escorts, the outboard of which is closest with about a
        5 port angle on bow and the inboard one who haz a zero angle on bow.

1221    Outboard escort is going by astern at about 500 yards range. Can
        see he is a Matsu DD. Target now has a 45 starboard angle on bow
        at 3100 yards. Inboard escort has about a 5 port angle on bow. Am
        just going to be inside him. Have seen (Aircraft Contact No. 14)
        1 bomber and two float planes over convoy.

1223    Target has changed course toward slightly and has 50 starboard angle
        on bow at 2100 yards. Would have preferred to have commenced firing
        about now as gyros are but slightly right but escort has less than 150
        angle on bow so don't want to shoot until we are near his beam as with
        a slight touch of the helm he could ram us.

1225    Tried single ping range twice no return on either.

1225-13 Lat 11-37, Long 109-11 E. Commenced firing 6 torpedoes forward set
        alternately at 6 feet and 10 feet. Target range 1050, angle on bow
        90 starboard, target speed 14 knots, track 090, average run 1296,
        starboard total spread 10° at 8 second intervals. Speeded up to 2/3
        after first torpedo went out to hold periscope depth as forward room
        always takes a liberal amount of water in bilges on firing. Entered
        a check bearing between 3rd and 4th torpedoes, set up has been checking
        very nicely with stadimeter range throughout ranging on an assumed
        60 foot funnel to waterline. Turn count of 120 checks with about
        14 knots for modern diesel large tanker. After last torpedo went out,
        ordered rig for depth charge and made ready stern tubes as it was
        still possible to shoot second escort. However on raising periscope
        set up was in a state of change too rapid to follow with a torpedo
        problem even had tubes been ready which they were not because spindles
        had been disengaged on rigging for depth charge. Second escort now
        seen to be a Matsu DD had just gone by astern at about 200 yard range.
        Several things impressed me on this look. The large radar horns on
        the Matsu's foremast, lookouts in white on Matsu's bridge looking
        aft at periscope, gun flashes from tanker's bow, gun flashes from
        Matsu's stern, a slick in the otherwise choppy water astern, a
        float plane zooming the slick between Matsu and periscope, and the
        Matsu turning to the right and towards us. On next look tanker had
        given a puff of smoke from funnel and torpedoes should already have
        hit but nothing was heard. Most impressive however was the Matsu
        passing up port side within less than 500 yards range (by stadimeter)
        and depth charges flying into the air from the Matsu's stern. Two had
        a little up on his starboard quarter and one over eight degrees in
        elevation going up and out of sight as periscope was tilted up.
        Lowered periscope, flooded negative, and went ahead full to 130'.

- 10 -

— page 133 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 20, 1945 Cont'd.

in 180 feet of water. At 70 feet first depth charges exploded
(only 2 were above) which buffeted
and rocked boat but whose only serious damage was the knocking
out of silver soldered plugs in both air conditioning con-
densers (See damage list). Believe it quite possible that
we obtained one hit in tanker's engine room as evidenced by
puff of smoke shooting straight up at time torpedoes should
have hit.
(NOTE: This tanker was never reported by either aircraft
or submarines to the north after we fired at it. Six days
later at 1200 HOW 26th in Lat 14-01 N, Long 109-13 E, 147
miles to the north, an aircraft reported a large beached tanker
being salvaged by an escort. This might have been it).

1233 to

1333 Running at 130 feet total of 41 depth charges, some above, most
below from one DD. First total of 8 false target shells which
seemed to help shake him. When he finally left at 1348 another
set of screws were heard standing north, probably the escort
that had been working over the GUAVINA. Believe both of these
escorts were out of depth charges. The fact that we shot with
large right gyros probably explains why the hatsu did not lay
be on the torpedo tracks run back. Mk eighteens forward would
have been greatly appreciated on this attack.

1435 Periscope depth -(Aircraft contact No 15.) Sighted 3 Daves
searching areas on all sides of us.

1503 Planes have departed.

1859 Surfaced and stood eastward to transmit report of contact.

1935 Completed transmission of contact on Wolf Pack frequency, sent
twice addressed to Wolf Packs 1, 6 and 7 without receipt from
anybody.

2048 Completed transmission of message reporting attack to CTF 71
receipted for by VIXO.

2157 Completed retransmission of Wolf Pack message at BECUNA's request
and she receipted for it.

2218 BECUNA asked if we had contact at present and at

2312 We replied, "No", and gave our position. Checked our original
contact transmission and found we had confused the time of
contact by using a GCT code group followed by HOW spelled out.
Clarified this to Pack.

- 11 -

— page 134 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 20, 1945 Cont'd.
2345 GUAVINA's burning tanker close to Padaran Light gives off explosions
     frequently which send flames over horizon at 25 miles.

FEBRUARY 21, 1945
0000 Patrolling Off Phanrang Bay.
0055 Exchanged calls with BECUNA to eastward by SJ.
0306 (Ship Contact No. 19) SJ contact on small unidentified craft at 6,400
     yards never sighted. Slowed to 5 knots and tracked contact on south
     and southwesterly courses at from 0 to 6 knots. Nothing heard on
     sound and nothing seen although night is clear.
0330 (Ship Contact No. 20) SJ contact on small unidentified craft at
     5,500 yards to northward which was tracked on southwesterly courses
     at intermittent speeds. Not sighted or heard at 3100 yards. Assumed
     them to be very small sampans with sails doused.
0610 Submerged for days patrol two miles off Hon Chong.
0713 (Aircraft Contact No. 16) Sighted southbound Dave to SE.
0830 (Aircraft Contact No. 17) Sighted low wing monoplane to south headed
     north, range 1 mile.
1655 (Aircraft Contact No. 18) Sighted land based single engine plane
     patrolling coast.
2010 Surfaced three miles off Bai Lua Island and patrolled about 6 miles
     off Hon Do.
2030 Exchanged calls with BECUNA to SW.

FEBRUARY 22, 1945
0614 Submerged two miles east of Bai Lua Island patrolling between Hon
     Chong and Mui Davaich.
0928 (Aircraft Contact No. 19) Sighted Dave flying south.
0945 Heard faint explosion that sounded like torpedo hit. From now until
     1209 heard 14 separate explosions plus 3 salvos of depth charge ex-
     plosions to SW. BECUNA must have sunk somebody.
1014 (Aircraft Contact No. 20) Dave.
1032 Sighted float planes patrolling to SW, 3 times saw them zoom water.
1040 (Aircraft Contact No. 21) Sighted bomber circling to SW.

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U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 22, 1945 Cont'd.

1202 (Aircraft Contact No. 22) Sighted 2 Daves to SW.

1218 Two sets of pinging on 16 Kcs at 201(T).

1225 (Ship Contact No. 21) Lat 11-31 N, Long 109-10 E. Sighted masts
      bearing 210.5(T) and 207.5(T) range about 12,000 yards. Battle
      stations torpedo.

1230 Masts have resolved themselves into those of a tanker and one
      possible DD, DD on shore bow of tanker, tanker with about a zero
      angle on bow. Changed course to 070(T) to be in a position to
      use stern tubes as we are about 3000 yards off beach and expect
      tanker to pass close to our position, 2 float planes are patrolling
      over ships.

1255 Escort has crossed target's bow to seaward side and both ships
      have about a 15 port angle on bow at 3,500 yards. Changed course
      to 330(T) for stern tube shot. Tanker is now seen to be small
      freighter resembling ANASTASIA type but with mainmast on bridge structure.
      Escort still looks like Matsu DD although only one stack is visible
      with this angle on bow. Pinging from two directions, one from
      escort, one from tanker. Pinging from tankers bearing, her small
      size, not over 3100 tons, the possibility of her being too lightly
      loaded for a 6 foot depth setting (sea was considered too rough
      to set them shallower) the considerable air coverage for one ship
      plus the considerable time spent in depth charging the BECUNA
      made me suspicious this was a Q ship. Decided to fire four electrics
      at the Matsu.

1301 Angle on bow of escort now large enough to identify her as a DE
      UN-1, not much shorter than a Matsu. Although further away than
      the tanker and on his off bow the set up had been checking so
      nicely that at

1305 Lat 11-38 N, Long 109-12 E. Fired 4 electrics at him set for 6
      feet, total spread, 6 degrees using target speed 10, average
      track 85, average gyro 170 firing interval 10
      seconds. Torpedoes were tracked out on their generated courses.
      Target was watched and did not zig. No hits, no explosions and
      nobody apparently alerted. The torpedoes must have run under.
      No ping range was taken because it was believed impossible to get
      one at this range in this water on such a small target, 2 attempts
      having failed on a 500 foot, deep draft target at lesser range
      days before. After firing got good look
      all around and sighted the cause of our misjudging the character
      of the tanker. The pinger was a DE UN-1 trailing the tanker
      about 4000 yards astern of him. Watched formation disappear from
      periscope depth. I should have fired at the tanker but the
      probabilities of it being a light draft Q ship had at the time
      seemed very good. A ship's fathometer can be mistaken for pinging

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— page 136 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 22, 1945 Cont'd.

     but this tanker was not using his fathometer and the mistake was made
     because the trailing escort was so far behind and pinging on the tankers
     bearing. Sea was force three with considerable white caps on this attack.

1443 Reload completed aft.

1805 Opening out from coast to surface.

1951 Surfaced and stood to SE to transmit contact report.

1959 Exchanged calls with BECUNA to SE by SJ. Asked him if he was al-right.
     He said yes he had sunk a tanker and to beware of a wreck in Lat
     11-27.5 N, Long 109-05 E. Exchanged information with BECUNA and learned
     her tanker was not with ours. Hers had a DD and DE escort and she had
     not seen our contact.

2000 Customary APR contact on 209 Mcs which sweeps back and forth over us as
     if it knew we were there but could not get a pip on us. Either we are
     much closer to the radar's location than we think or our SJ emanations
     are picked up and cause a search to be made for us.

2101 Completed transmission of contact report on Wolf Pack frequency getting
     receipt from FLOUNDER, BAYA and probably HAMMERHEAD.

2306 Completed transmission of contact and attack to VIXO.

FEBRUARY 23, 1945

0000 Patrolling about 20 miles 160(T) from Cape Padaran to cover any possible
     traffic that might pass between Alhoa Bank and Holland Bank.

0055 Closing Cape Padaran at 4 engine speed having just received an aircraft
     contact message reporting 4 small tankers and 2 escorts northbound close
     to coast which if their speed is correct should put them an hour and a
     half north of Cape Padaran too far to be overtaken by us before daylight.
     Heading for Padaran because it is the nearest point of land and we can
     most quickly be in a position to intercept convoy if they are behind
     schedule.

0100 Established VHF contact with PB4Y patrolling our sector and began a 5
     hour communication merry go around that was beautiful to see operate but
     must have been enlightening to the enemy if they were listening in. The
     plane made contact with us first having come up coast from SW and we re-
     layed his dope to BAYA, BECUNA, and GUAVINA, until plane was close enough
     to give it to them direct. Plane told us he was there to recontact 6
     ship convoy and to veetor us in. After getting us to report our position
     and attempting to verify it by his physically contacting us by sight and
     IFF, plane got down to business and commenced search for convoy. We
     never got IFF response from plane nor did anyone else but plane admitted
     his IFF was not working properly.

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— page 137 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 23, 1945 Cont'd.

0248     (Ship Contact No. 22) When within 6000 yards of Cape
         Padaran sighted unidentified ship to NW and just to right of
         Cape's right tangent in bright moonlight, at an estimated
         range of about 12,000 yards. Radar picked up contact to south
         and left put contact in line with dark background of Cape
         Padaran in a few minutes. Since contact was less than 12,000 yards
         away and not observable on radar because of his small size and because
         of his rapid movement probably in escort. Within 45 minutes he
         would be in 10 fathoms of water and as he was hugging coast probably
         was already in shallow water. Put contact astern and went to four
         engine speed as he was now invisible in land background and we had
         a brilliant moonlit horizon for 18 minutes then circled for 22 minutes,
         then closed coast to 9,000 yards awaiting plane's contact dope.

0420     Plane has possible contact and is investigating.

0423     Plane says contact bears 090(T) 12 miles from BLENNY; came to 090(T)
         at 4 engine speed.

0425     Plane now gives contact position relative to Kamranh Bay which puts
         convoy SW of Cape Padaran close to coast. Several conflicting re-
         ports finally established that convoy was in fact about 17 miles
         SW of Padaran within a couple of miles of beach headed NE at planes
         estimated speed of 10 and later 12-14 knots. Plane reported convoy
         of 4 ships had two escorts who for while circled convoy and later
         took position one ahead and one astern of column. He also reported
         2 Bogeys in his vicinity. By now it was 0500 and we either had to
         proceed ahead at 4 engine speed to dive on convoy's track or haul
         away from shore before it got light to full fill assigned duties as
         surface ship of the pack for the day. Asked Pack Commander on VHF
         in plain language if he wished us to carry out assigned job for day.
         Used plain language because considered one more transmission could
         would entail too great a delay and since we had been communicating
         by plain language all night considered one more transmission could
         be so phrased as to give nothing away. Shortly thereafter received
         message in WOPACO from pack commander addressed to Pack to track
         and attack. Went ahead at 4 engine speed on line between Cape
         Padaran and Phanrang Point.

0545     Contact on BECUNA to eastward at 8,000 yards.

0555     SJ contact at what turned out to be bow of BECUNA's tanker about 50
         feet of which stuck straight up above surface showing 1 mast on
         forecastle in Lat 11-27.5 N, Long 109-05 E.

0618     Submerged with Cape Padaran Light bearing 233(T) range 17,000 yards
         heading up towards Phanrang Point and passing through fleet of a
         couple dozen fishing sampans.

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— page 138 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 23, 1945 Cont'd.

0705 (Aircraft Contact No. 23) Sighted "Dave" to NE on SW course.

0711 (Aircraft Contact No. 24) Sighted Dave to N headed south.

0918 Pinging bearing 215(T) in Phanrang Bay. (Aircraft Contact No. 25)
     Sighted bomber circling on bearing of pinging, range about 15 miles.

0927 to Screws bearing 222(T) and much pinging and individual screw noises
1044 to SW.

1044 (Ship Contact No. 23) Lat. 11-33 N, Long 109-07 E. Sighted masts
     of DE-UN-1 bearing 228(T) range about 8,000 yards which was first
     ship of a convoy comprising 4 small minesweepers aft ships and 3 escorts
     sighted within next 15 minutes. Tankers looked to be of from 250
     feet to 300 feet in length and had bridges aft with a mast on top
     of bridges. Only one of them had a discernible stack. Two of the
     escorts were PC boats. Battle Stations.

1048 Heard two explosions sounding like bombs followed by noise heard in
     sound gear sounding like gun fire and strafing.

1050 (Aircraft Contact No. 26) Four B-25's visible apparently having
     bombed and strafed convoy as it rounded Phanrang Point headed east.

1051 More B-25's visible to south, one diving away from bursting flak. A
     high column of black smoke is rising straight up from something in
     Phanrang Bay. A light column of white smoke has appeared further
     to the south in the bay and a DE is racing towards it probably to
     pick up a Jap aviator.

1105 Another column of white smoke but possibly in reverse. Looks like a
     plane blew up in air and fell from considerable altitude or a magazine
     blew up on an escort, all in the bay.

1107 Escorts have scattered heading westward into the shallow water of the
     northwestern part of the bay. The 4 tankers are left on the tail
     end of the whip to follow the escorts.

1110 (Aircraft Contact No. 27) Identified one plane as a Liberator.

1116 All ships out of sight having retreated to western part of bay.
     Secured from battle stations.

1117 (Aircraft Contact No. 28) Sighted unidentified fighter.

1214 (Aircraft Contact No. 29) Sighted float plane bearing 222(T) headed
     SE.

1222 JK had pinging and a fathometer at 179(T) nothing visible on that
     bearing.

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— page 139 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 23, 1945 Cont'd.

1230 Faint screws at 192(T).
1235 (Ship contact No. 24) Lat 11-28 N, 109-09 E. Sighted masts of
  large new construction tanker on bearing 189(T) range 12,500, angle
  on bow 50 port and mast of 2 DD UN-1. Came to normal approach
  course, went to standard speed and at
1251 Changed speed to full depth 110 feet.
1320 Slowed to 1/3 came to periscope depth, range 8750 angle on bow
  65 port.
1325 Sighted sampan 040(T) range 1200 yards. Went under him.
1340 Tanker's nearest range 6000 yards angle on bow 70 port in Lat
  11-33 N, Long 109-16 E.
1352 (Aircraft Contact No. 30) Sighted two Nells and two Daves patrolling
  over tanker. Took pictures of ship. A fighter and two more Daves
  in the distance. This tanker's screws were picked up on a bearing
  which put him close off Phanrang Point where it appeared he would
  likely hug the coast. Due to his low mast and the swells he was
  not sighted until the range was about 12,500 yards. He had from
  this position taken a base course which diverged coast radically
  passing Davaich Point some 11.5 miles to eastward. Continued on
  course 090(T) thinking someone else might follow the same track.
  This is the first time that a convoyed ship has been seen by this
  pack doing anything but hugging the coast.
1440 Heard pinging and picked up masts of 3 escorts and 4 small tankers
  rounding Phanrang Point hugging coast showing about a 60 starboard
  angle on bow range 16,000 yards. Did not chase as convoy was
  making good speed and would be passed before we could close the 14,500
  yard to the coast with a 1.5 knot current setting us south.
1824 Surfaced with Cape Padaran bearing 259(T) range 23 miles opening out
  before sunset.
1929 Lying to repairing leaking lube oil lines on forward bearings on
  #1 and #2 main motors. Leaks caused by depth charging on 20th.
  Listening on AFR and SJ as visibility is good and do not want to
  alert Kamranh Bay Radar station while stopped as they seem to know
  when we use our SJ and try to pick us up on their radar even though
  we are beyond its effective range. SD secured.
1947 APR contact at 157 Mcs very weak.
1956 APR contact saturation pip on SPA with gain setting reduced to 7.

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— page 140 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 23, 1945 Cont'd.

1958 Both shafts back in commission. Commenced sweeping with SJ.

2001 All ahead 2/3.

2004 (Aircraft Contact No. 31) From 1956 to this time APR contact
definitely indicated by sudden and abrupt changes in its pip size
and saturation and at about this time that the Jap was varying his power
output. SPA gain setting had been reduced to 5 and still pip was
under pip bore 330 relative time, 2004, SJ made contact on plane
10,000 yards. Submerged. As SJ went under pip bore 330 relative
range 2350 yards. This conclusively proves to us that this particular
radar equipped plane picked up up solely on the merits of his own
radar as SD had not been used at all and SJ had been in the stand
bye and listening condition up to within 6 minutes of contact.

2033 At 45' all clear on SJ and SD.

2036 Surfaced, proceeding to rendezvous.

2215 Sight contact with BECUNA at about 10,000 yards in bright moonlight.
SJ contact a few minutes later at 9,750 yards. Proceeded to maneuver
close aboard on parallel course at 1/3 speed and exchange information
by megaphone. BECUNA said she would relieve her on patrol off Davaich Point to-
morrow and for us to relieve her on that station tomorrow night.

2258 Conference completed proceeding to patrol 30 miles east of Cape
Padaran for remainder of night and tomorrow.

FEBRUARY 24, 1945

0033 Conducting surface patrol 30 miles east of Cape Padaran.

0116 (Ship Contact No. 25) 11-23 N, 109-33 E. Sight contact on properly
marked hospital ship bearing 345(T).

0130 Radar contact on hospital ship bearing 310(T) range 20,250. Ship
stood south and disappeared. Possibly the Awa Maru which we had
been informed would pass through.

0622 Made 13 minute trim dive.

0639 Faint APR contact on 157 Mcs.

1231 (Aircraft Contact No. 32) Dove for unidentified large plane bearing
272(T), 45 starboard angle on bow which was seen to change to zero,
range about 10 miles, elevation 5°.

1302 Surfaced.

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— page 141 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324).

FEBRUARY 24, 1945 Cont'd.

1956 Standing SW to close coast for night patrol.
2220 Exchanged calls by SJ with BECUNA. She had no information.

FEBRUARY 25, 1945

0032 Commencing sweep up coast from about 12,000 yards off Cape Padaran,
     proceeding to daylight patrol position near Davaich Point. Maneuvered
     to avoid several sampans which radar could hold to about 8,000
     yards.

0211 (Ship Contact No. 26) 11-23 N, 109-08 E. Sighted large two masted
     composite 2 deck hospital ship bearing 040(T) range 27,000 yards.
     Ship tracked on 200(T) at 17 knots. It had two white crosses on
     hull, one forward and one aft, one on the top deck and what looked like a
     side view of one on the top deck for aircraft recognition. The
     shear line if painted green was not illuminated.

0412 APR contact at 209 Mcs steady on us for 18 minutes about 3/4 pip
     at gain setting of 10. This radar is the one we think is on Tagne
     Island but we are at present almost 20 miles from it, too far to
     be picked up.

0608 Submerged for days patrol, with Hon Chong bearing 246(T) range 4
     miles.

0922 (Aircraft Contact No. 33) Sighted Frances to North. Angle on bow
     zero, range 3 miles.

1042 Heard two medium distant explosions.

1045 (Aircraft Contact No. 34) Sighted formation of 10 B-25's with
     fighter (Mustang?) coverage overhead headed south.

1108 (Aircraft Contact No. 35) Sighted 4 Nells to SW with 90 port
     angle on bow range about 6 miles.

1120 One bomb explosion heard.

1810 Opening from coast to surface.

1940 Surfaced 9 miles SE of Hon Chong standing to SE.

1951 209 Mcs APR contact saturation pip on SPA with gain setting reduced
     to 5. Range to Tagne Island 20 miles.

2255 Standing SW to patrol south of Cape Padaran.

FEBRUARY 26, 1945

0100 Exchanged calls with BECUNA to South.

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— page 142 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 26, 1945 Cont'd.

0200 Patrolling North- South line south of Cape Padaran from 4 to 8 miles
     from coast. Flames and smoke from heavy oil fire visible from
     probable ship a couple of miles off Point Lagan. Perhaps the B-25's
     hit a tanker in the shallow water today.

0330 Standing NE to days patrol point skirting Cape Padaran at 9,000
     yards.

0529 Passed several sampans to West.

0619 Submerged with Hon Do bearing 319(T) range 9,500 yards standing
     North along coast.

1300 Took photographs of what appeared to be Jap radar antenna and
     assembly located in Lat 11-44.1 N, Long 109-12 E on top of hill
     1017 feet high. Antenna resembled bedspring type but was apparently
     not rotating during the time we could see it in daytime. Now
     believe it to be the 209 Mcs radar that beams on us
     nightly instead of the one theorized as being on Tagne Island.
     This location has a much wider sweep than any radar Tagne Island
     might locate because of its height. It explains why we have been
     beamed on when we thought we were out of range of Tagne Island
     or west of a line between it and Davaich Point.

1850 Heard 10 single explosions sounding like depth charges over a period
     of 30 minutes sounding as if they were to south. Perhaps BECUNA
     on surface today has sighted something to seaward and made an attack
     or perhaps a convoy is coming up and they are dropped for their
     nuisance value.

1950 Surfaced standing SE with nearest land Hon Chong bearing 277(T)
     range 8450 yards.

1954 APR contact at 157 Mcs, gain setting 8 appears to be two aircraft
     radars.

2010 (Ship Contact No. 27) Lat 11-33 N, Long 109-08 E. Visual and radar
     contact on 4 ships bearing 270(T) range 9,950 close to left tangent
     of Hon Do. Moon is 2 days from full and tends to silhouette us.
     Put targets astern to open range and track.

2020 Targets now established by radar as three large and three small ships.

2025 APR contact at 160 Mc, evidently surface radar at saturation gain
     setting 10.

2033 Changed speed to 3 engine charging on 1, starting end around.

2040 SD contact at 8 miles, convoy has air coverage.

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— page 143 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 26, 1945 Cont'd.

2046 Making 4 engine speed, charging with auxiliary.

2051 HOE receipts for our contact report.

2054 Weak interference on SJ from bearing of nearest escort. He
     has some type of 10 Cm radar.

2055 SD contact at 7 miles.

2100 Nearest escort at 7,500 yards, zero angle on bow, tracking
     at 15 knots, put him astern.

2101 BECUNA receipted for contact report.

2108 10 Cm radar interference getting stronger, orange flare ahead
     of convoy, heard and felt full salvo of depth charges, believe
     escort lost us, thought we dove, and depth charged spot.

2113 BECUNA heckling us by SJ from south. Exchanged calls with
     her.

2124 Aircraft radar at 158 Mcs being keyed.

2146 Transmitted new position course and speed on Wolf Pack frequency.
     Near escort has been roving, 5000 to 6000 yards on near bow
     of convoy and apparently has had doubtful contact on us about
     3 times as he heads over at 15 knots with zero angle on bow
     until we open the range over 8,500 yards. Contact probably
     a combination of his radar, and our radar interference in his
     set, plus our light brown haze and silhouette in moonlight.
     Why they don't send planes over to investigate is a mystery.
     They have them over the convoy because we have SD contacts
     and aircraft radar.

2216 Have now drawn well ahead and will be able to dive north of
     Kamranh Bay; only fear is convoy will anchor there. However,
     last radar contact showed convoy part way across bay mouth
     apparently not going in.

2244 Submerged one mile east of Hon Nai Point and 3 miles south of
     Pecheurs Islands - raised periscope and it remained up until we
     surfaced 4 hours later. Moon is very bright. Battle Stations
     torpedo.

2300 Pinging to southward.

2320 Targets bearing 198(T). Escort making 138 rpm.

2321 Swinging right to 220(T) as 3 targets in column have 15 star-
     board angle on bow. Can see that they are large tankers.

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— page 144 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 26, 1945 Cont'd.

2323 Leading escort a DE-UN-1 ahead and on starboard bow of column
     passing between us and land, range 1400 yards.

2329 Swinging right to firing course of 270(T), seaward escort to east
     of us with 40 port angle on bow. Third escort not seen but must
     be on other side of column or is trailing. Leading tanker making
     120 RPM's. Looks identically like the new construction 10,000 ton
     tanker that passed to seaward of us the other day. Stepped up bow,
     catwalks, one mast only with yardarm on bridge, fairly large moderate
     height erect funnel set fairly well aft. Have been using a set of
     tables for range determination. Using an assumed target length
     (500 feet), arguments are angle on bow and tenths of periscope field
     subtended. Set up checks at 10 knots.

2332 Single ping range 1250 yards checks within 100 yards of generated.

2332-46 Lat 11-57 N, Long 109-18 E. Fired 4 mark 14's at 8 second interval
     run 1250, average gyro 347, all
     set for 6 feet spread for 800 foot target.

2333-36 Hit, 2333-46 Hit, target has flashed into flame from stem to stern
     as if he were carrying a deck load of gasoline drums. This has
     illuminated the the other two targets as if by flash bulb and every
     detail is crystal clear. They are identical, 10,000 ton tankers of
     a new construction type.

2334 Left full rudder to shoot remaining two torpedoes at second ship and
     to avoid running into the sea of fire that has developed. Every
     man on board must have been lost so instantaneous was the ignition.
     Tankers 2 and 3 in column have executed turn 9 and now have a 90
     port angle on bow and No. 1 is very close. In illumination bright
     as day, a taffrail long line can be seen streaming aft from No.
     2's fantail or is it a hawser towing a depth charge? Am glad he is
     hauling it across our bow rapidly. Tracers from No. 3's bow gun
     are hitting water half way between periscope and tanker. Can see man running
     flashes from other tanker and leading escort. Can see man running
     forward from bridge on catwalk on No. 3 probably going to General
     Quarters Station. Have been informed number 5 tube fired when
     ready light was turned on which leaves only #6 forward. (See torpedo
     casualties) Will have to shoot the remaining torpedoes at number three as gyros for
     No. 2 would be too great he being very close.

2340-30 Steady on 145(T) single ping range on number 3 tanker, 975 yards
     which checks within 25 yards of that figured by subtension of
     target. Fired #6, track 125 port run 1000 gyro 001-30 depth set
     6 feet. Approximately a minute after firing, heard an explosion.
     No flame or outward evidence of a hit but about this time smoke
     shot up from target's funnel as if it had speeded up or had been hit
     in engine room. The set up looked as if a hit was inevitable.
     Torpedo's screws have stopped.

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— page 145 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 26, 1945 Dont'd.

2342 Right full rudder to bring stern tubes to bear on number two tanker
who now has made another 90° left turn giving us a favorable port
track. Can see escort's searchlight signalling between and from be-
yound two tankers. Sea of flame extends from burning tanker almost
to shore line.

2348 Steady on 200(T).

2350-20 Commenced firing 4 electrics aft at 10 second interval average track,
149 port average run 3700, average gyro 159, all set for 6 feet and
20 degree total. Did not attempt a ping at one at this range and because by
range because knew we couldn't get one at this range and because by
now it might reveal our position to those hard listening Jap sound-
men. Continued taking bearings and ranges of target as torpedoes
ran which checked consistently. About 4 minutes later heard one and
then another explosion. JP tracked torpedoes out heard these ex-
plosions and immediately thereafter could hear no more torpedoes
and unlike depth charges. Observed a slight column of smoke rise vertically
from target's funnel at
approximately same time. This target was only visible for a few
minutes after this as waves seemed to rise in his direction. Whether
this effect was due to his sinking or to his drawing further away
from the light of the fire is not known. Likewise target number two
although much closer seemed to fade into the darkness and the waves
was getting farther from fire. How-
over these large targets faded from sight very rapidly and the escorts
although much smaller came into view almost at the same time. Believe
strong possibility exist both these tankers sank from hits in their
engine rooms.

2358 Retiring to SE at 70 turns running normally. Allowed all hands to
have a look at conflagration through periscope. Have 3 escorts in
sight two to NE and E and one to W all pinging and searching. One
to W passed at about 1500 yards going north searching close to beach.
(Note - Up until 1100 of 2 March,
no plane or submarine reported sighted any of this convoy)

FEBRUARY 27, 1945

0027 Reload completed forward.

0245 Surfaced standing to SE on 3 generators.

0246 Exchanged greetings by SJ with BECUNA to SW. Reported to her results
of attack and torpedoes remaining. Pack commander ordered us to
patrol surfaced tomorrow and to report results of attack to CTF 71.
Stood SW to transmit attack dope.

0257 Completed Wolf Pack transmission of attack.

0306 APR contact at 157 Mcs.

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— page 146 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 27, 1945 Cont'd.

0420 Completed transmission of attack information to CTF 71. Radar
     plane has been searching all morning but apparently has not closed
     to less than 12 miles from us. Will patrol 30 miles south of Cape
     Padaran in hopes of contacting somebody standing north through shoal
     water to southwestward.

0807 On station patrolling 10 mile legs east and west, 30 miles south of
     Cape Padaran. Can see smoke from burning tanker close to Point
     Lagan.

1228 (Aircraft Contact No. 36) Sighted Liberator to SW range 12 miles.
     Exchanged calls by VHF.

1712 (Aircraft Contact No. 37) Sighted 2 Daves to westward range about
     9 miles, put astern. Daves circling and reversing course. Believe
     they are over a convoy.

1715 (Ship Contact No. 28) Lat 10-58 N, Long 108-48 E. Sighted 2 large
     tankers and 5 escorts bearing 295(T) range about 9 miles on Northeast-
     erly course, speed later estimated at about 12 knots. Went to 4
     engine speed to make end around.

1745 Transmitted contact report on VHF.

1745 Transmitted contact report on Wolf Pack frequency.

1816 Sent amplifying report on Wolf Pack frequency.

1825 (Aircraft Contact No. 38) Sighted fighter plane to westward high
     with zero angle on bow at range of about 6 miles wiggling his
     wings. Convoy had 15 starboard and I had allowed it to
     get too close as air cover could see us. Submerged and went to 150
     feet. Could hear machine gun bullets striking water overhead through
     conning tower at 150 feet.

1842 Heard 3 bomb explosions not too close.

1900 Periscope depth all clear.

1922 Surfaced on 4 engines trying to regain contact.

1923 Reported on Wolfpack had lost contact and clarified convoys com-
     position as 2 AO's, 5 escorts, our first contact having been sent as
     3 AO's and 4 escorts which was the estimated composition at first.

1944 Retransmitted last and best position course and speed of convoy and
     received receipt from BECUNA.

- 24 -

— page 147 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 27, 1945 Cont'd.
2028 Regained radar contact bearing 317(T) range 17,700. Targets
      are following the beaten track and are in Phanrang Bay just
      west of BECUNA's wreck.
2029 Transmitted new position of contact and received receipt from BECUNA.
2037 (Aircraft Contact No. 39) SD contact at 8 miles closing.
2043 SD contact has closed steadily to 3 miles - submerged.
2109 Surfaced on 4 generators.
2115 (Ship Contact No. 29) Lat 11-20 N, Long 109-18 E. Sighted large
      properly marked hospital ship bearing 142(T) range 18,000 yards
      course 252(T).
2127 (Aircraft Contact No. 40) SD contact at 10 miles, put astern and at
2129 SJ contact on plane at 4,500 yards bearing 220(T) - submerged.
2135 Two faint explosions, screws and pinging to NW.
2143 Surfaced on 2 generators. We cannot overtake this convoy at this
      rate so will tag along and look for stragglers opening out a little
      to get out of radius of air cover's search. BECUNA's interference
      is lost. Assume she has submerged for attack.
2312 SJ contact on probable plane bearing 269(T) range 15,000 yards -
      customary ever present 157 Mcs APR contact from gain setting of 6
      to 10.
2355 Spoke BECUNA by SJ to SW. She was forced down by escort and
      bombed by plane and kept from getting into position for attack.
      Told us to patrol south of 11-30 submerged tomorrow but informed
      her we had just received CTF 71 serial 65 directing us proceed to
      Subic Bay for reload. Requested permission to sink our tanker if
      still afloat. "Go ahead", was her answer. Stood up to north of
      Kamranh Bay but no evidence of anything burning there. However
      heavy smoke pall high in sky continues northward to at least bearing
      of Nhatrang Bay. Am afraid the Nips may have towed it north.
      If so however it is still burning.

FEBRUARY 28, 1945
0059 Set course 055(T) for joint zone enroute Subic Bay at 4 engine speed.
0814 Slowed to 3 engine speed.
1058 (Aircraft Contact No. 41) SJ contact on plane bearing 186(T)
      range 19,120 yards. Called Liberator in this area on VHF and
      received prompt reply so it probably is a friend.

- 25 -

— page 148 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

FEBRUARY 28, 1945
0550 Slowed to two engine speed.
1030 Slowed to one engine speed.

ARCH 1, 1945
638 Submerged for trim and deep dive.
742 Surfaced.
800 Exercising JO's at man overboard drill while awaiting hour for enter-
    ing Joint zone.
900 Entered joint zone and established communication with HAWKEILL who is
    supposed to go in with us. She has been delayed and will not go in
    with us. Went ahead full on 4 engines, course 090(T).
910 (Aircraft Contact No. 42) Sighted PBM bearing 300(T) range 5 miles.
    Fired identification grenade.

ARCH 2, 1945
000 Proceeding towards Subic Bay in joint zone at 4 engine speed.
439 (Ship Contact No. 29) Radar contact at 13,400 yards on U.S.S. HOLT
    DE 706, our escort.
445 Exchanged calls with HOLT and she took position ahead as screen.
620 To mooring - many friendly aircraft and surface vessels sighted.
122 Moored starboard side to tanker ESSO PORTLAND anchored in Subic Bay to
    fuel.
507 Underway to shift berths.
550 Moored port side to U.S.S. GRIFFIN in berth 35 Subic Bay, P.I. to re-
    load torpedoes and effect voyage repairs. Repairs included those to
    air conditioning condensers, air compressors and cleaning of periscopes.
    Transferred three men to tender, one temperamentally disqualified,
    one with heart trouble, and one who had been an emergency relief at
    start of patrol. Received three men as replacements.

ARCH 3, 1945
    Undergoing voyage repairs at Subic Bay alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN.

ARCH 4, 1945
700 Ready for sea.

- 26 -

— page 149 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 4, 1945 Cont'd.

1806 Underway in company BLUEBACK and BERGALL escorted by a DE proceeding
     through joint zone at 16 knot speed of advance, submarines on scouting
     line, base course 270(T), interval 5 miles, order from north to south,
     BLENNY, BLUEBACK, BERGALL. BLENNY destination Area C-4 in accordance
     with CTF 71 despatch 030951.

2246 Escort departed.

MARCH 5, 1945

0221 (Ship Contact No. 30) SJ contact on U.S. Submarine believed to be
     GUAVINA bearing 274(T) range 9,900 who passed across bow at 3100
     yards and down starboard side.

0605 Made 28' trim dive.

0728 (Aircraft Contact No. 43) Sighted 6 B-25's westbound, low down, to
     southward.

0755 (Aircraft Contact No. 44) Sighted large unidentified sea plane to
     northward headed north.

0820 (Aircraft Contact No. 45) Liberator arrived on station to conduct
     communication tests with submarine group.

1030 Liberator departed.

1130 (Aircraft Contact No. 46) SD contact on B-24 eastbound at 20 miles.

1310 Exercised at battle stations gun action and Battle Surface firing
     all guns on both drills.

1900 Entered submarine patrol area. Taking position on scouting line
     whose base course is 243(T), interval 20 miles, order from north
     to south, BERGALL, BLUEBACK, BLENNY.

MARCH 6, 1945

0130 In position on scouting line, slowed to two engine speed.

0616 Made 11' trim dive.

1302 Submerged for fire control drills.

1324 Battle surfaced.

1500 Entered area C-4

1630 Investigated object on horizon which turned out to be a belly tank.
     Sank it with BAR.

- 27 -

— page 150 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 6, 1945 Cont'd.

1934 SJ interference ahead.

1953 Exchanged calls with BECUNA by SJ.

2328 BECUNA came close aboard to port and exchanged official mail.

2337 Collision was narrowly averted as BECUNA seemed to drift down on us.
     We backed and BECUNA went ahead full with right full rudder to throw
     her screws clear of our bow. They missed us by inches. Believe
     wind on port bow caused BECUNA to drift down
     course of 060 which put wind on port bow caused BECUNA to drift down
     on us.

     Mail received ordered us to patrol south of 11-30 N, close inshore
     submerged until relieved by BAYA on 11th.

MARCH 7, 1945

     Patrolling off Phanrang Bay keeping within about 12,000 yards of Hon
     Do.

0030 Avoiding several small sailing craft frequently met in this area.

0541 APR contact on 209 Mgs weak. It appears that the Kamranh Bay radar
     this morning is being used as an aircraft early warning radar as this
     is the first contact on it.

0603 Submerged with Cape Padaran bearing 294(T), range 4 miles, and with one
     sailing sampan bearing 357(T) range 4850 yards and another 312(T),
     5600 yards. Closing coast.

0709 Patrolling parallel to and about 3000 yards off Cape Padaran. Many
     southbound cargo sampans sailing by.

1225 Battle stations torpedo for contact thought to be small man of war
     which turned out to be sampan sailing wing in wing.

1607 Sighted bow of wreck of medium sized ship in Padaran Bay in Lat
     11-18.7 N, Long 108-51 E. Also noted two large piles of ore or mine
     tailings in Lat 11-18.8 N, Long 108-54.6 E near which in Lat 11-19.2 E,
     Long 108-54 E was sighted a substantial pier extending to SW several
     hundred feet. These latter are about 2 miles SE of the town of Cana.
     Took photographs.

2001 Surfaced 2450 yards SE of coast of Cape Padaran having exchanged calls
     with BECUNA to SW at radar depth before surfacing. Stood to SW
     patrolling as far out as 18 miles off coast while BECUNA conducts
     close inshore patrol off Padaran.

- 28 -

— page 151 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 8, 1945

0604 Submerged 3.5 miles SW of Cape Padaran conducting patrol about 3000
     yards off beach east of Mui Sungtran.
1246 Sighted smoke from northbound train to westward on Saigon railroad.
1602 (Aircraft Contact No. 48) Sighted northbound, low flying THELMA
     with zero angle on bow range 2 miles.
1816 (Ship contact No. 31) Sighted subchaser (PC 13 Class) ahead of 300
     ton sea truck rounding Cape Padaran and standing south.
1820 Battle stations torpedo while contacts resolved themselves into their
     true identity. Contacts were tracked at 7.5 knots hugging coast and
     passed 1700 yards from us. Did not fire as sea truck was not a torpedo
     target and force 5 sea was too rough for the 2 foot depth setting
     considered necessary to hit the PC boat.
1854 When sea truck was about 4000 yards to SW both he and escort made a
     complete circle as if searching for something, then stood to SW and
     disappeared as if standing into Padaran Bay. There was no pinging
     at any time. Believe possible PC anchored overnight in Padaran Bay
     and intends to stand out and meet northbound traffic in morning.
2007 Surfaced 5 miles to SW of Cape Padaran exchanged calls with BECUNA
     who told us to take close off shore patrol off Padaran tonight. In-
     formed her of our contact by SJ. Patrolling about 12000 yards SE
     of Cape Padaran.
2327 Stood in towards northern part of Padaran Bay to within 4000 yards of
     Mui Sungtran. Have two small radar contacts on something at anchor
     about 1 mile inside the 10 fathom curve. Believe these are the PC
     and seatruck. Deliberated possibility of hitting PC with torpedoes.
     It should be easy were it not for the rough sea which would not
     permit the depth setting of two feet considered necessary.

MARCH 9, 1945

0537 Submerged 3.5 miles SE of Cape Padaran, conducting patrol about 3000
     yards off the Cape.
1037 (Aircraft Contact No. 49) Sighted northbound Thelma with 10 port
     angle on bow, range 1.5 miles. Have had good look into Padaran Bay
     and neither PC or sea truck is visible.
1743 (Aircraft Contact No. 50) Sighted Thelma to westward northbound over
     Padaran Gap range about 5.5 miles.
1950 Surfaced 4300 yards south of Cape Padaran patrolling between 3 and 6
     miles south of Cape.

- 29 -

— page 152 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 10, 1945

0611 Submerged 6,800 yards SE of Cape Padaran closing coast to patrol
     3000 yards off Cape.

0950 (Ship Contact No. 32) Heard pinging and sighted mast bearing 055(T).

0952 Battle stations torpedo, contact is seen to be a DE with 10 starboard
     angle on bow range 12500 yards. Shortly thereafter heard second set
     of pinging to seaward of DE.

0958 Have two DE UN-2 in sight.

007 Nearest DE passed 1000 yards to seaward (2 miles off coast) and
     furthest DE about 3 miles off coast on his beam. Both were making
     15-17 knots, 290 RPM and the nearest one had a flaghoist in air as he
     went by. A few minutes later they both executed a course change to
     about 180(T) and continued out of sight. Did not fire as heavy
     swells of force 5 sea probably would cause torpedoes to run erratic
     at 6 feet much less the depth of 0-2 feet required for a hit. Believe
     these are DE's reported by two boats to northward last night one
     estimating speed at 22 knots. Believe eventually they will escort some-
     thing north with sufficient draft to fire at.

0955 Surfaced 3,550 yards south of Cape Padaran. Informed BECUNA by SJ
     of contact and received message "Sam here". Patrolling from 6000
     to 10,000 yards south of Cape Padaran.

MARCH 11, 1945

0425 to

0752 Intermittent weak APR contact on 157 Mes believed to be land based
     radar (aircraft search).

0430 Opening out to south for two day surface patrol in accordance with
     BECUNA's original orders, BAYA relieved us.

0705 Patrolling 5 mile east - west line, 20 miles south of Cape Padaran
     Light.

0030 Heard Liberator search plane calling somebody on VHF and answered up.
     Communication was established and plane said he was returning to base
     but would bring mail the next time he came out.

0243 Heard plane calling BECUNA on VHF so answered up for her but plane
     could not hear us.

0300 After securing lifeguard frequency called plane on SAF plan frequency
     unsuccessfully. Inasmuch as plane cannot guard both at once, cannot
     reply to his calls when he is on VHF and we are not yet out of range. Also since
     latest despatch requests that we guard lifeguard frequency from 0900
     - 30 -

— page 153 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 11, 1945 Cont'd.

     to 1300 HOW, we cannot hear initial calls of plane on SAF plan if
     he calls after 0900. He should know this.

1330 Passed through several bales of what appeared to be crude rubber.

1635 In Lat 11-00.5 N, Long 108-59 E sighted bloated body of what was
     tentatively identified as a Japanese clad in khaki trousers and shirt.

1933 Closing Cape Padaran to patrol from 6000 to 10,000 yards off coast
     with center of Cape bearing between 000(T) and 320(T).

2014 Exchanged calls with BAYA.

2205 Closed to 3000 yards off coast to take radar look into Padaran Bay.
     Nothing but small pips picked up at from 3,500 to 7,000 yards at
     anchor presumably sampans.

MARCH 12, 1945

0249 to

0338 Several small sampans sighted near entrance to Padaran Bay.

0500 Opening out to south for day surface patrol.

0606 Made 19 minute trim dive.

0641 Patrolling 5 mile east west legs 20 miles south of Cape Padaran.

0759 In lat 11-00 N, Long 109-00 E sighted bloated body of presumable
     Japanese so identified by very short stature.

1352 (Aircraft Contact No. 51) Sighted large single 2 engine plane to
     southward ½ degree above horizon, range about 9,000 yards, zero
     angle on bow - submerged.

1404 All clear at periscope depth.

1429 Surfaced - all clear. Believed this was probably Thelma we have
     seen going north on this beat in afternoons. He whould have sighted
     us but no bombs were dropped and he didn't linger. Sky is very
     hazy, sea force 5 with about a 25 knot wind and it may be our
     camouflage concealed us.

1718 In lat 10-54 N, Long 109-03 E. Sank large several horned barnacled
     mine with two hits of 150 rounds from 20mm.

1910 Closing Cape Padaran.

- 31 -

— page 154 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 12, 1945 Cont'd.

2045 Closed coast to 3,500 yards investigating small pips on sampans.
     Sound thought they heard screws a couple of times but radar did not
     substantiate and nothing was sighted.
2127 Patrolling 6000-10,000 yards south of Cape Padaran:
2317 Exchanged calls with BECUNA to NE. Commenced sweep into Phanrang
     Bay 5,000 yards off coast.

MARCH 13, 1945

0000 Sweeping through Phanrang Bay.
0246 Received wolfpack message from BECUNA saying she had contacted
     patrol boat in Lat 11-29 N, 109-20 E at 0215.
0304 On batteries closed pip anchored inside 10 fathom curve in Lat
     11-29 N, Long 109-01 E to 1050 yards and identified as small 75'
     native schooner lugger or Sampan, masts not visible. Nothing
     visible till inside of 2000 yards, night being very dark. Definitely
     not a sea truck. Nothing but sampans in Phanrang Bay. Standing
     to eastward.
0327 Radar contact on BAYA at 13,000 yards to eastward.
0335 . to
0606 Tracking several small pips probably sampans on southerly courses
     at slow speeds, ranges from 2100 to 7000 yards.
0910 Passing through very heavy oil slick which had first been noticed
     at about Lat 11-00 N, Long 109-08 E and extended to about Lat
     11-36 N, Long 109-11 E.
0930 In Lat 11-40.7 N, Long 109-13 E. Sighted bloated body of presumable
     Japanese clad in white shirt, khaki trousers fitting tightly
     below the knees and heavy shoes plus considerable debris consisting
     of buckets, swabs, pieces of wood, an oil drum and pieces of some-
     thing resembling cork.
1629 Standing into northern part of Phanrang Bay to see if anything is
     anchored there.
1954 Surfaced in Phanrang Bay; made radar contact with BAYA 9,800 yards to
     SE, numerous sampan contacts and nothing else in bay.
2025 Received Wolfpack message from pack commander ordering us to remain
     submerged - presumably to allow
     pack to north to patrol coast immediately north of Camranh Bay.

- 32 -

— page 155 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 13, 1945 Cont'd.

2140 Patrolling 2½ miles off Hon Do tracking as many as 5 small contacts
     at once within a 6000 yard radius.

MARCH 14, 1945

0603 Submerged 5000 yards east of Hon Chong patrolling close to coast from
     Mui Davaich to Hon Do. Much debris floating by.

1025 (Aircraft Contact No. 52) Sighted 6 B-25's standing south along coast.

1953 Surfaced 2 miles south of Hon Do. Stood west into Phanrang Bay to
     see if anything is anchored there. Many sampans contacted but nothing
     else.

2035 Exchanged calls with BECUNA to SW.

2058 Received plane contact of 9 ship convoy SW of Cape San Jacques on
     northeasterly course. Perhaps we are to have some action after all.

2100 Patrolling 2½ miles off Hon Do.

MARCH 15, 1945

0000 Many small contacts by SJ on sampans. It is necessary to leave plot
     and go 2000 west of us right to avoid running these sampans down
     while patrolling close to coast.

0600 APR contact on 157 Mcs saturation pip at gain setting of 7. Believe
     this is a land based aircraft search radar.

0607 Submerged 3 miles east of Hon Do conducting patrol up coast to Mui
     Davaich and south to Hon Chong.

1932 Practiced a few ping ranges on the steep sides of Mui Davaich. The
     return echo from 950 to 2300 yards is most gratifying in that
     enemy pingers would be very much confused by the reverberations.

     As many as 30 sampans under sail in view at a time.

     Have again sighted and photographed what we believe is a radar antenna
     above Davaich Head in Lat. 11-44.2 N, Long 109-12 E. The top of the
     antenna instead of looking rectangular as when originally sighted now
     looks like an inverted cone or partially closed umbrella. Have had
     a 209 Mcs radar contact on APR to this area and then but very
     weak. Perhaps the place has been bombed. If so we can probably
     thank the army for doing it and our-
     selves for having reported its
     position.

1953 Surfaced 4,400 yards SE of Hon Do and stood west into northern Phanrang
     Bay, nothing but sampans picked up. Patrolling close to coast SE of
     Hon Do.

                                                                 - 33 -

— page 156 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 15, 1945 Cont'd.

2005 APR contact on 157 Mcs weak but reached maximum of saturation at
     reduced gain setting of 6 and disappeared at 2224. Believe this
     radar is located in vicinity of Phanrang.

MARCH 16, 1945

0400 (Ship Contact No. 33) Radar contact at 9,500 yards on something
     anchored inside reef in northern Phanrang Bay in Lat 11-34.5 N,
     Long 109-04.6 E.

0415 Contact underway tracked out of lagoon and on course 185 at 6.5 knots.
     Pip was lost at 14,350 yards which indicates contact was probably
     sea truck or large sampan or PC. Did not attack as force 5 sea was
     too rough for shallow depth setting necessary and to have ended around
     out of our assigned area which it
     for attack would have taken us out of our assigned area which it
     was of primary importance that we be in, because of possibility of
     impending enemy shipping movements.

0525 Customary morning APR contact at 158 Mcs.

0606 Submerged 3 miles NE of Hon Chong patrolling close to coast as far
     north as Davaich Head.

1952 Surfaced 3150 yards south of Davaich Head. Standing south at 2 engine
     speed close to coast to coast into Phanrang Bay and around Cape Padaran to
     position for close night patrol it being our time to relieve BAYA in
     her job as surface patrol.

2023 Exchange calls with BECUNA by radar.

2058 Radar contact at about 15,000 yards on fleeting pip probably Liberator.

2223 Slowed to 1 engine speed patrolling 6000 to 10,000 yards south of
     Cape Padaran.

2333 SJ contact bearing 012(T) range 6,450 close to coast. Tracked at
     6 knots hugging coast within 1000 yards and lost is as it mingled
     with land pips in Padaran Bay.

MARCH 17, 1945

0020 Standing into Padaran Bay on batteries to investigate two radar pips
     on vessels at anchor. Believe one of these is on previous contact.

0154 Closed to within 400 yards of both pips and identified them as sampans
     of less than 100 foot length with one single tall mast. Opened out
     and lost contact with largest sampan at 10,000 yards. Resumed patrol
     south of Padaran.

0506 Opening out to south for day surface patrol 18 miles south of Cape
     Padaran.

- 34 -

— page 157 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 17, 1945 Cont'd.

0600 Made 10' trim dive.

0648 Patrolling 5 mile east west line 18 miles south of Padaran.

0839 In Lat 10-58.5 Long 108-56 E sank mine with 4 hits of 34 20mm rounds
     fired.

1001 VHF contact with Liberator in our sector. Sent him our encoded position.

1115 (Aircraft Contact No. 53) Liberator to north at 10 miles. Plane
     headed to NW and then reported by VHF a sail barker in Lat 10-58 N,
     Long 108-23 E sinking. Told him we believed it had been there a
     couple of weeks as we could still see he was over the position of the oil
     smoke we had sighted some days before even though his given position
     is 30 miles in error to SW.

1151 In Lat 10-59.2 N, Long 108-56.8 E, exploded mine with 20mm fire after
     1 hit failed to effect it of 15 rounds fired. Was about 125 yards
     from it and that is a bit too close as wind blew smoke and spray on
     deck and explosion shook boat. Our mine shooting procedure calls for
     all hands topside to wear helmets as fragments fly about 200 yards.

1316 In Lat 11-01 N, Long 108-57 E sank mine with 2 hits out of 6 rounds
     of 20mm fired at about 150 yards. These mine have four crenelated
     horns about 10 inches long, a lifting pad, and a plug in the top which
     probably gives access to the buoyancy chamber.

1900 Closing Cape Padaran for close surface patrol.

2100 Patrolling from 6000 - 10,000 yards from Cape Padaran.

MARCH 18, 1945

0000 Tracking several small sampans in vicinity of Cape Padaran.

0530 Opening out to southward for days surface patrol.

0659 Made 11 minute trim dive and on surfacing commenced patrolling 18
     miles south of Cape Padaran.

0735 Sighted mast of ship to westward in approximate Lat 11-06 N, Long 108-42,
     and identified from position, list, and the fact she was stationary
     as being same ship we had seen burning for about two weeks as same one
     Liberator had reported "sinking" yesterday.

1041 (Aircraft Contact No. 54) Sighted Liberator to NW range about 8 miles
     who disappeared in direction of coast. Exchanged calls by VHF.

1440 Received first of several messages in clear from Matches Roger plane
     in Saigon area, reporting 5 later identified as 2 large and 2 small
     unidentified and 1 escort, underway from 5 miles 090(T) from Cape San

- 35 -

— page 158 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 18, 1945 Cont'd.

Jacques on northeasterly course at from 5 to 10 knots as well as
a single escort 50 miles 085(T) from San Jacques. Upon requesting
additional positions, plane determined convoy had reanchored 1
mile south of the Cape but single escort could not be located.
In meantime sent two messages explaining situation in contact code
addressed to any and/Ships first calling BLUEBACK (Com WOPAC
immediately to north of us) to make sure she was listening and
would receive it. Plane reported leaving for base. Requested her
to relay a request from us for plane tracking tonight as would
like to find out if convoy gets underway after drak and also
what course single escort is, our last request to plane for single
escort's course having been unanswered.

1845 Closing coast to patrol from 6000 - 10,000 yards from it.

2000 Exchanged calls with BECUNA by SJ and transmitted her brief of
plane information. Said we would be seeing her a Subic as she
told us she was leaving and to "take charge".

2315. Contacted RAYA by SJ and sent her a brief of plane information. Also
told her to stay surfaced next two days while we remained submerged
as she has been down 2 days and it is our turn. Expect ROCK and
COPIA in area any day now.

MARCH 19, 1945

0606 Submerged 3000 yards off Cape Padaran. Conning tower latch failed
to catch and tended to prevent complete closing of hatch (as it
has on other occasions when hatch is bounced shut too hard and
released before latch has chance to catch). Quarter master in
the dark did not realize that the latch was preventing closure.
Blew at 30 feet and caught boat at 40 feet. There was some delay
in shutting lower conning tower hatch due to the fact that in
assisting closing it from above the OOD slipped and got his foot
caught between the gasket and knife edge. This resulted in
flooding about 2 feet of water over conning tower deck and 1
foot over pump room deck. (See damage list) Commanding Officer was
in conning tower at time and Executive Officer in control room.

Principal items grounded; No. 2 air compressor motor, No. 2 air
conditioning circulating water pump motor, trim pump motor,
control room hull supply booster blower, SJ training motor, SJ,
TBL, RBH, and DCDI.

Lessons learned on this casualty are as follows:

1. We will hereafter have the helmsman turn on a white standing
light automatically when diving in the dark thus permitting the
quarter master to watch hatch closing mechanisms. (Quartermaster on watch
at time although new to us on the second half of this patrol had
made all three of BERGALL'S first patrols as quartermaster watch
stander). However this was only the second time the quartermaster
- 36 -

— page 159 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 19, 1945 Cont'd.

had officiated at a dive on the BLENNY.

2. We will hereafter shut the conning tower ventilation line
stop valve in the control room automatically on the diving alarm
and in advance on routine dives because radio reom got a good shot
of water from conning tower through ventilation line. (Note this
valve requires an average of 50 seconds to close).

3. The value of shutting bulkhead flappers was thankfully realized
on this dive as battery might otherwise have been flooded.

4. Present hatch latch is a Pearl Harbor design much superior to
the E.B. Co. design but still not foolproof. Will endeavor to
build up latch toe and underside of hatch rim so that surfaces
are parallel thus tending to increase gripping surface when hatch
is shut and held shut by virtue of contact between the two.

0800 Patrolling about 3,000 yards off Cape Padaran.

1704 Measured pier in Padaran Bay by angular subtension as about 435
feet long.

1944 Surfaced 4,400 yards SE of Cape Padaran opening out to southward
on one engine in bright quarter moon while charging. By dint of
hard work all day trim pump, SJ, TBL, and RBH (except for CW re-
ception) in commission and other gear showing improvement.

2045 Received message from COBIA on Wopaco frequency asking where pack
was. BAYA and we transmitted our position.

2242 (Ship Contact No. 34) Radar contact at 11,500 yards on unident
believed to be large sampan. Contact was within 1500 yards of Cape
Padaran and tracked on southwesterly courses at from 5 to 0 knots.
Followed at about 6000 yard range. Target disappeared from radar
at a few hundred yards off beach. Closed to 1000 yards on batteries and identifi-
ed as large sampans. Ever since that PC and sea truck disappeared
around Cape Sungtran we have been hopeful of catching one at anchor
in calm waters. Tonight the sea is smooth enough inside Padaran
Bay for a zero torpedo depth setting.

MARCH 20, 1945

0000 Investigating sampans in Padaran Bay.

0049 Stood out of bay and to northeast to pick up BAYA's SJ interference
and to transmit a message to her. Remembering that the Nips
travelled close to coast in moonlight during first part of patrol
here and knowing that plane reports have located a convoy at
anchor off Cape San Jacques for the last several days, expect a
convoy through here in moonlight pretty soon.

- 37 -

— page 160 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 20, 1945 Cont'd.

0117 Transmitted to BAYA by SJ "In view of possible moonlight traffic with
     air coverage, if feasible and situation warrants, close coast sub-
     merged after fourteen hundred tomorrow. I will be south of 'former'."
     staying down till after midnight. Believe by 1400 plane guard required
     area will have been fullfilled and at that time then still remains to close
     coast submerged from say 15 miles before any traffic gets by. COBIA
     probably will be in area by then anyway.

0400 to

0603 Tracking numerous sampans.

0603 Submerged 4.5 miles SE of Cape Padaran closing coast for close patrol.

0830 Sighted what believe to be our contact of last night at anchor just
     to westward of Cape Sungtran, a large two masted sampan, one mast
     looking as large as a telegraph pole.

011 (Aircraft Contact No. 55) Sighted 4 B-25's to eastward of Cape
     Padaran who reversed course and stood northward to seaward of Cape
     Padaran.

346 Running a line of soundings 1200 yards off 10 fathom curve to see
     what depths we have close in. Soundings previously taken to supple-
     ment those shown on the chart in the vicinity of Cape Sungtran in-
     dicate depths there are generally greater than shown.

410 Control room booster blower back in commission.

504 (Ship Contact No. 34) Sighted engines aft ships, 4 PCs , and 1
     DE UN-1 inside Padaran Bay bearing 273(T) range about 16,000 yards.
     Stealthy approach on seaward side of column and ships seaward flank. At this range
     one PC about 1000 yards on last with about a 60 starboard angle.
     They had bridges amidships and were DE leading column with 3 PCs running
     interference in echelon line of bearing on DE out to about 2500
     yards on bow two of the targets definitely had bridges amidships and were
     at least Sugar Baker size. The other two could not be seen as well
     and either must have been smaller, camouflaged, or both.

506 Changed course to 270(T) to head for them hugging coast within 2200
     yards.

520 Executive Officer thought he saw flash of a plane over convoy although
     at no later time did Commanding Officer sight any.

525 Battle stations torpedo. Can see from broadside view that two of ships
     have good sized funnel set fairly well forward and resemble medium
     sized tanker or engines aft cargo ship. Other two ships are funnels
     aft but apparently smaller and are either tankers or medium to small
     cargo ships.

- 38 -

— page 161 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 20, 1945 Cont'd.

cargo carriers. Have laid out 3 cans of CO2 absorbent today and
valved in one bottle of oxygen in anticipation of staying down in
moonlight waiting for possible traffic so now, before closing to
within earshot of convoy, valved in another half bottle of oxygen.
With only one air conditioning unit running, 90 men and officers
aboard and considerable activity getting machinery in commission
and watering batteries, considered this desirable. Rigged both
torpedo rooms for reload prior getting close to convoy.

1545 It is evident from DE's angle on bow which varies from 10 port to
10 starboard that he is patrolling the 20 fathom curve as are we
and we will have to go under him. Rigged for depth charge and silent
running, rigged in pit log and sound heads, and went to 85 feet where
chart shows minimum depth to be 18 fathoms when range to DE was
1600 yards.

1600 DE has passed over top pinging as he went but has not speeded up
from his 7.5 knots which we have tracked him at.

1603 Periscope depth, rigged out sound heads, pit log air bound so left
it rigged in. DE astern with 160 starboard angle on bow and can
see 3 PCS outboard of us, 1 PC dead ahead with zero
angle on bow and targets inboard with about 5-10 starboard
angle on bow. Can see we are too close to turn towards for bow
shots without having to fire directly ahead of escort. Too
close to turn towards for bow shots without having to fire
directly ahead of escort. Took a cut and came left to firing
course of 210(T) for stern tubes. Quick look showed leading
target just to left of Cape. Quick look showed leading
target just to left of Cape. A little considered
it possible they were going to anchor within the 10 fathom curve
to the westward of that point while escorts made an anti submarine
sweep ahead in advance of sunset.

1607 When, on next looking, PC had 40 starboard angle on bow and would
clear nicely astern could not locate targets to left of Cape.
Suddenly realized targets were further aft and going by and I had
not noticed them on quick sweep around because of their land
background. Quickly got set up on last target which fortunately
were well bunched up. As I had no time actually taken range
observations on the targets my attention having being occupied
with tracking the escorts, used a navigational range to target
assuming them to be 1000 yards off beach. Set in angle on bow,
used speed of 7.5 knots that escort had tracked at and at

16-13-10 (Attack No. 4) Commenced firing 4 Mk 23 torpedoes aft using contin-
uous periscope bearings with point of aim the bow of a medium
sized green camouflaged engines aft ship which was over-
lapping another engines aft ship painted dark gray by about 75%
(nearest ship's bow 25% inside of far ship's bow) and which was but
about one length astern of an engines aft ship of medium tonnage
painted dark grey. Firing interval 8 seconds, depth setting 6 feet,
average track 120 starboard, average torpedo run 1900, average gyro

- 39 -

— page 162 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 20, 1945 Cont'd.

192, spread 3/4 L, 3/4 R, 2 1/2 R, 2 1/2 L. Near escort had an angle
on bow of about 90 starboard during firing and his bow almost
overlapped target's stern. Consequently torpedoes ran down
target they went just ahead of him. No ping range had been
attempted because felt navigational range was good, it was too
late to wait for delay of a ping, and reverberations from shore
would probably prevent a recognizable return.

16-14-17 First torpedo explosion on target (green hornet) seen to send
tremendous column of slate grey smoke skyward.

16-14-41 Second torpedo explosion amidship in ship which had been one
length ahead of target sent a broad column of flame several
hundred feet in the air capped by black smoke. This flame
resembled the gasoline fire of our large tanker north of Kamranh
Bay. Believed he carried gasoline either in bulk or as a deck
cargo in drums.

16-14-43 Third torpedo explosion was not witnessed periscope having been
trained on second target but from plot it should have been a
second hit on first target. Later plot of attack showed it more
likely targets were closer making about 6 knots.

1615 Went ahead full and came left to get off torpedo tracks. Rigged
in sound heads, fired false target shells, took sounding of 21
fathoms and sought refuge at 110 feet in water where the chart
shows 18 fathoms but where our characteristic soundings run somewhat
greater. Heard loud sound as of escaping air for about 1 minute.
At first we thought we' had wiped sound head on bottom and rigged it in but then remembered this sound to be
identical except for being weaker with that made when our trans-
port sank on the first patrol at a 1000 yard range.

1618 First of 21 depth charges none closer than 400 yards it is be-
lieved. Charges were dropped sparingly by one or twos with none
of the characteristic barrage affected by a DD or DE salvo. Several
of them were light and sounded like very light aircraft bombs or
mousetraps. Evading to southeast toward a total of 3 escorts who soon
lost us or more likely never had us on scale pinging. We fired false target twice when escort seemed
close, closing fast and on a steady bearing. Twisted, turned,
speeded up, and slowed (but never below 70 turns).

1733 Periscope depth. Three PCs in sight two pacing back and forth at
scene of attack about 8000 yards away and a third about 6000
yards away pinging furiously. No other shipping in sight and
no smoke in sight indicating both targets sank. The two PCs
are apparently picking up survivors. Two PCs resembled PC 1 or
4 class. The other one had a very fat stack and the sheer and
length of a PC-13. Believe third hit was possibly in target

- 40 -

— page 163 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 20, 1945 Cont'd.
which was overlapped. So much smoke enveloped the first target hit
that a hit on the ship behind it probably would have gone un-
observed. To send 2 ships on with only 2 escorts seems unlikely.
However we will know from reports of boats to north definitely
whether one or two targets remained.

1745 Secured from battle stations running normally.

1848 Reload completed aft.

1951 Surfaced in bright moonlight and stood SE at 2 engine speed to
open from coast. APR contact on aircraft 157 Mcs radar gain setting
reduced to 6 indicating a plane well over 5 miles away.

2002 Lost APR contact.

2005 Commenced sending contact report to Pac Commander 7 and 8 stating
we had sunk 2 and possibly 3 Sugar Bakers from convoy. Got receipt
from BLUEBACK (Comwopaco 8) at 2222. Unable raise Comwopaco 7.

2011 Changed course to 090 to try to close COBIA's radar interference
and find out whether she knew anything about convoy proceeding north.

2300 Received contact report from BAYA saying she was commencing attack
on a single escort vessel east of Hon Do. Must be one of stra-
gglers who had been looking for us overtaking convoy. Judging from
BAYA's position she might have been too far from coast to pick up
main target group.

2315 Radar contact on COBIA at 12,500 yards. Still can't get in
communication with her.

MARCH 21, 1945

0000 In communication with COBIA. She says to come close aboard for
voice communications.

0035 Received report from BAYA; she sank her escort contact.

0050 Close aboard COBIA to starboard. Exchanged dope. She had been
submerged about 10 miles south of Cape Padaran during our attack,
had heard our hits, and seen the smoke from them but was too far
away to see ships. She was forced down by radar plane after
surfacing at 1900 somewhere near where we surfaced at 1951 and had
the 157 Mcs APR contact. Obtained permission from COBIA to stay
submerged until otherwise directed when ROCK arrives to take charge.
Told her BAYA was due to be submerged and suggested we patrol south
of 11-30 submerged and they north. COBIA agreed and will relieve
either of us when we want him to.

- 41 -

— page 164 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 21, 1945 Cont'd.

0103 Closing Cape Padaran at 4 engine speed, battery charge and air banks
     being up and since we wish to see if any escorts remain as targets
     now that moon is down.

0157 APR contact at 157 Mcs weak.

0205 APR contact much stronger, gain setting on SPA reduced to 6.

0236 APR contact gain setting 4, SD pip at 8 miles. He is only a few
     miles away. Decided to sit this one out as night is very dark and
     he cannot see us from aloft.

0237 Backed down,killed headway, stopped engines, and sent lookouts below.

0238 (Aircraft Contact No. 56) SJ contact bearing 215(T) range 9800.
     Tracked plane from port to starboard beam making 87 knots on course
     040(T). At about 2000 yards range, sight contact on 2 engine
     ramshacked sounding (control room personnel could hear him over
     7MC) single winged plane resembling a Thelma flying at about 700-800
     feet altitude. Flew straight over and across and when dead ahead
     elevation was about 75° clearly visible to the naked eye and showing
     dim white wing tip lights. Lost plane in binoculars at 2400 yards,
     no exhausts sighted. Plane went straight across and was lost at
     12000 yards by SJ. This was a dark night with clear starlight.

0256 All ahead full on 4 engines.

0330 APR contact back again, stopped, shifted propulsion to batteries
     but plane did not come close.

0337 Making one third speed on auxiliary dodging Sampans close to scene
     of yesterday's sinking.

0513 APR contact at 157 Mcs, stopped.

0514 (Aircraft Contact No. 57) SJ contact bearing 076(T) range 7,500
     yards opening rapidly.

0524 SJ contact bearing 135(T) range 21,800 yards for a fleeting moment.
     APR contact is weaker. Planes tracked on course 190(T) speed 85
     knots.

0600 Submerged 6,700 yards SE of Cape Padaran closing for close patrol.
     Noticed tremendous oil slick in vicinity of yesterdays sinking which
     had a faint sweetish odor.

0631 Sighted what looked like portion of ship's hull bearing 286(T) in
     direction of Breda Bank. Will investigate.

0724 Heard several salvos of distant depth charges. Assume BAYA has
     attacked her contacts.

- 42 -

— page 165 —
U.S.S. PLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 21, 1945 Cont'd.

1054 Established position of the bow of a medium sized ship upturned
     listed and aground 2 miles east of Preda Bank in Lat 11-17.2 N,
     Long 108-54 E in 14 fathoms of water. Bow is slightly raked and
     above waterline is painted dark grey which indicates it is
     probably the bow of the second ship hit, the one which burst into
     flame. Estimation of waterline to keel distance gives a rough draft
     of 21 feet. Took 2 photographs of our evidence.

NOTE: In connection with this convoy and circumstance relating
thereto I feel that there were two things I should have done that
I did not. First, after telling BAYA yesterday to submerge in the
afternoon south of Kamranhh, I should have notified BLUEBACK,
Comwopaco 8 to north of us, that the coast line north of Kamranhh
Bay would not be used, by our pack and that she was free to station
one of her boats there. This would have insured another attack on
the convoy whenever they went by. I had thought of this but did
not act upon it because of the knowledge that COBIA would probably
arrive today and might want to use that position or might want to
reassign BAYA and ELENNY to other positions. Informed COBIA last
night of BLUEBACK's desire to use that position when our pack did
not. Likewise I had wanted to avoid use of radio as much as
possible with a convoy movement possibly impending. Not-withstand
previously spending numberless nights sweeping in vain through
Phanrang Bay for signs of anything that might be as large as a sea
truck, I should have swept the dark hours of this morning swept
through the bay on the off chance that an escort of remnant of
the convoy had anchored overnight there (this subsequently was
learned to have been what they actually did). A clue to this
possibility, if properly interpreted would have been the fact only
convoy showing that they intended to follow water to anchor. The fact that
BAYA had reported sinking a single escort and I had seen the convoy go by, been unable to
close it, and finally closed on escort, who was a straggler. I
likewise more or less assumed that the anchorage spots of Phanrang
Bay being North of 11-30 N and in BAYA's balliwick should be left
up to her. However if we had so elected there was no reason why we
could not have taken such a sweep.

1215 (Aircraft Contact No. 58) Sighted northbound Liberator rounding Cape
     Padaran range 1500 yards.

2009 Surfaced standing south to contact COBIA by SJ to see if she has
     any information.

2022 SJ communication with COBIA. She asked us if we had been surfaced
     at 1730 and we replied "No". She then said she had a Nip sub on
     surface 10 miles to south.

- 43 -

— page 166 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 21, 1945 Cont'd.

1034 SJ contact on COBIA at 11,000 yards to southwestward. Assumed she
     was edging north to give the Nip room and so stood eastward to let her
     have it, to get clear of the Nip, and to try to contact BAYA and
     see what luck she had. Chased weak interference attributed to BAYA
     unsuccessfully.

1127 Received request from BLUEBACK for 5" ammunition if we can spare it.
     He requests rendezvous 50 miles east of Cape Varella about midnight
     the night of the 24th. Sent him affirmative.

235 Heard BAYA receipt for COBIA's Wopac message concerning Nip sub sighted
     in Lat 11-00 N, Long 108-55 E on course 130. COBIA had lost contact
     when diving to attack. Have feeling of guilt as I recommended that
     very same position to COBIA during our oral conference yesterday as
     being a good spot for day surface patrol. We had sent the same
     position report to our Liberators from it several times by contact
     code and I fear the Japs cut us in. Hereafter on the surface "a
     good spot" will be any heretofore not recently used by someone else.

MARCH 22, 1945

000 Still searching for BAYA.

015 Weak SJ interference to SE but can obtain no answer to our challenge.

0200 No. 2 air compressor back in commission.

0224 SJ contact at 10,000 yards on presumably COBIA. She has hauled away
     from coast some 15 miles also. Decided we had wasted enough time
     trying to establish communications with BAYA so headed back for coast
     at 4 engine speed.

0345 Cape Padaran Light 5 miles to westward. Commenced sweep into Padaran
     Bay. Ran through large slick of slightly sweet smelling oil. En-
     countered many sampans large and small. Had to con from PPI to avoid
     collision as most sampans would not be sighted over 1000 yards. Swept
     counterclockwise north and to west of BECUNA's wreck (which now is
     completely submerged). Nothing on radar to indicate anchored ships.

0557 Submerged 6 miles east of Padaran Light closing coast and patrolling
     3000 yards from beach along Cape.

0315 (Aircraft Contact No. 59) Sighted Liberator to northward which dis-
     appeared behind Cape Padaran on Southwesterly course.

0425 Resighted presumably same Liberator to seaward headed SW and watched
     him for 26 minutes. He took a turn around our wreck headed south as
     if to pick up COBIA, circled, turned around our wreck, and
     headed up coast to seaward. Was tempted to stick VHF antenna out and
     get the dope but we were too close Padaran Light.

- 44 -

— page 167 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 22, 1945 Cont'd.

1951 Surfaced 3300 yards SW of Cape Padaran and stood eastward to pick up
     BAYA's SJ interference and to question her on her luck yesterday.

2157 to

2330 Communicated with BAYA and learned she was missing the last two
     days VIXO serials due weak reception. Decided this was a good time
     to close for voice communication and give her copies of the serials,
     obtain a complete copy of the effective strip arrangement which had
     been mutilated by salt water in the radio room during the hatch
     episode on the 20th, and to generally swap dope.

2330 Close aboard BAYA to starboard. Gave her serials, got strip arrange-
     ment tables, and received an account of her attack on the remnants
     of our convoy. She said that the two marus remaining were Sugar Dogs,
     well down the scale as far as size goes. As I know we had at least
     two Sugar Bakers in the convoy we must have definitely sunk them
     having accidentally picked out the two largest targets to fire at.
     He had fired at a DE and missed due to two electrics running erratic.
     Agreed to leave area at midnight 24th in company.

2344 Conference completed returning to coast at 2 engine speed.

MARCH 23, 1945

0000 Patrolling 6000 to 10,000 yards off Cape Padaran zigzagging radically
     in bright moonlight.

0554 Submerged 3 miles SE of Cape Padaran closing coast for patrol 3000
     yards off beach.

2001 Surfaced, patrolling at 2 engine speed within 2000 yards of Cape
     Padaran.

MARCH 24, 1945

0000 Patrolling within 10,000 yards of Cape Padaran tracking numerous
     southbound sampans. These sampans must be carrying a lot of cargo
     in the aggregate. Desire information on whether they are legal
     and acceptable gun targets when we get in. Since no southbound
     shipping has been sighted during the whole patrol it stands to
     reason these 50 to 100 cargo sampans per day even though manned by
     French Indo Chinese are carrying a large portion of the vital
     supplies of the Japs.

0316 Closing BAYA to eastward to see if she has been able to copy VIXO
     and to make final arrangements for departure tomorrow night.

0402 Voice communication completed.

- 45 -

— page 168 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 24, 1945 Cont'd.
0553 Submerged 8,500 yards SE of Cape Padaran closing coast for close
     patrol.
1213 (Aircraft Contact No. 60) Sighted Liberator to SW range 14 miles.
1400 DCDI back in commission.
1531 Approached wreck of our ship to within about a mile and took
     photographs of its double stepped bow had no gun mounted. Perhaps no
     bow had no gun mounted. Perhaps no northbound ships are being
     stripped of their guns to bolster the defenses of souther areas.
1955 Surfaced 3000 yards south of Padaran patrolling 6,000 - 8,000
     yards off coast waiting to see if COBIA has any aircraft reports
     of shipping close enough to warrant our overstaying our ordered
     departure time of "at dark on the 24th".
2007 Received CTF 71 serial 25 instructing us to rendezvous with
     BERGALL and to take her aviators.
2108 Nothing heard from COBIA and no contacts; set course for
     rendezvous point with BLUEBACK and presumably BERGALL Q32(T).
     Told BAYA by SJ "Lets go".
2235 Directed BAYA to take position 8,000 yards on our starboard
     beam, proceeding in company.
2323 Received message from BERGALL interrogating our position and
     operations.
2348 (Ship Contact No. 36) Radar contact at 5,500 yards on un-
     identified small craft believed to be friendly sub - either COBIA
     or GUAVINA. Interference from BAYA's SJ made it difficult to
     tell whether this contact had SJ or not until we had both
     opened from each other far enough to tell we had two sets of SJ
     interference. Told BAYA to man VHF for quick exchange of in-
     formation by WOPACO during period of doubt in our mind but we
     were never able to contact her on VHF. Contact tracked first
     at 11 knots then at 16 after it had came within a few thousand
     yards of BAYA when evading us.

MARCH 25, 1945
0000 Enroute to rendezvous point 55 miles NE of Cape Varella at 3
     engine speed in company BAYA.
0043 Told BERGALL would rendezvous with her in same spot as planned
     for rendezvous with BLUEBACK at 0900 tomorrow or at any position
     enroute.
0137 Making 4 engine speed.

- 46 -

— page 169 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 25, 1945 Cont'd.

0201 Transmitted BLENNY's first to CTF 71 giving ETA in Joint Zone and
     results to date for BAYA and self.

0606 Made 12 minute trim dive.

0908 (Ship Contact No. 37) Sighted BLUEBACK with periscope at about
     28000 yards SJ picked them up at 24,000.

1008 BLUEBACK lying to with wind and sea on port quarter. BLENNY
     jockeying down wind from 100 to 400 yards on roughly parallel course
     to be in lee afforded by BLUEBACK. BLUEBACK's rubber boat ferrying
     passengers and ammunition.

     2nd Lieutenant Arthur J. McGrane 02057085 USAAF pilot of a B-25 and
     2nd Lieutenant Joe A. Groves 0765487 USAAF, navigator of a B-25 came
     aboard for transportation to Sub Base, having been transferred from
     BERGALL to BLUEBACK after rescue by BERGALL. They had ditched
     south of Hainan in a B-25 and had been adrift 4½ days in a rubber
     boat being rescued on the 15th. The other two survivors were
     too badly injured to justify removal from BERGALL at the present.
     Groves was uninjured except for a few cuts. McGrane has several
     broken bones in his left hand.

1143 Completed transfer of 41 rounds of 5 inch to BLUEBACK; set course
     for Joint Zone at 4 engine speed. I do not recommend the method we
     used for effecting transfer of anything as far as ship handling is
     concerned. It was a constant problem to avoid collision with no
     steerage way on and the boat that was trying to afford a wind break
     constantly drifting down on the other. The system I like, and it
     worked once with BECUNA and twice with BAYA is to head up wind at
     slow speed one boat holding course and speed while the other controls
     steerageway and control.

1926 Exchanged calls with BAYA by SJ; we have her interference ahead.

MARCH 26, 1945

0715 Sighted BAYA bearing 117(T) range 12000 yards. Told her to open
     out to 8000 yards on starboard beam.

0826 (Aircraft Contact No. 61) SJ contact bearing 295(T) range 26950.
     Probably is a Liberator.

0930 Entered Joint Zone.

1402 (Aircraft Contact No. 62) SD contact at 8 miles closing - 2 B-25's
     went overhead on easterly course.

1444 (Aircraft Contact No. 63) SD contact at 5 miles, closed to 2 miles
     and opened out, not sighted.

- 47 -

— page 170 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

MARCH 27, 1945 Cont

0540 (Ship Contact No. 38) SJ contact on escort bearing 108(T) range 22100.
0555 Exchanged calls with U.S.S. HODGES, DE 231 who was escorting BASHAW
      outbound.
0631 Zigzagging astern of escort at 4 engine speed on 090(T). BAYA astern
      enroute to Subic Bay, P.I.
1040 Entered Subic Bay and conducted underway sound tests. At anchor tests
      not conducted due high background noise level.
1355 Moored starboard side to port side of BECUNA alongside USS ANTHEDON,
      Subic Bay, P.I.

- 47A -

— page 171 —
(C) WEATHER

1. There were no unusual weather conditions.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION

1. From Camranh Bay to Cape Padaran, the current varies from 1½ knots
to 3½ knots in a direction setting from 190(T) to 230(T), the strength and
direction varying with the wind and the distances off shore.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS

1. There were no lighted Navigational Aids; however, positions along
the coast were readily fixed by radar ranges and bearings on prominent peaks
and tangents.

- 48 -

— page 172 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(F) SHIP CONTACTS

No. | Time & | Lat & | Type | Initial Est Crs & How | Remarks
    | Date   | Long  |      | Range Speed Cont      |
----||-------|------||
1.  | 2/5/45 | 31-36 S | USS  | Approx 350(T) R       | Rock returning from patrol
    | 2335   | 115-06 E | ROCK | 10,000 5 kts          |
2.  | 2/8/45 | 18-02 S | USS  | Unknown South R       | Exchanged calls by Radar.
    | 2015   | 113-48 E | CROAKER | Inter             |
3.  | 2/9/45 | 13-11 S | USS  | Unknown South R       | Exchanged calls by Radar.
    | 2010   | 115-00 E | BESUGO | Inter             |
4.  | 2/9/45 | 12-58 S | Submarine | Unknown South R   | Unknown sub with SJ
    | 2326   | 115-04 E |         |                   | Radar.
5.  | 2/10/45 | 12-31 S | USS  | Unk. North R.         | Exchanged calls.
    | 0200   | 115-08 E | HAWKBILL | Inter             |
6.  | 2/10/45 | 10-55 S | U.S.S. | Approx South P        | Exchanged calls.
    | 0829   | 115-28 E | GABILAN | 20,000 15 kts         |
7.  | 2/10/45 | 10-48 S | U.S.S. | South P               | Exchanged Calls.
    | 0855   | 115-29 E | KRAKEN |                   |
8.  | 2/10/45 | 09-25.1 S | Sailboat | Approx 340(T) P   | Two high triangular sails.
    | 1715   | 115-37.5 E |         | 22,000 5 kts          |
9.  | 2/10/45 | 09-13 S | HMS  | 4,000 South SD        | Surfaced to south. Ex-
    | 1845   | 115-38 E | SPITEFUL |                   | changed calls and greeting.
10. | 2/10/45 | Lombok | PC or SC | 6,450 Various R       | Tracked stopped and on
    | 2234   | Strait | Jap patrol |                   | westerly courses at slow
    |        |        |            |                   | speeds.
11. | 2/10/45 | Lombok | PC or SC | 8,200 Various R       | Tracked on easterly
    | 2258   | Strait | Jap Pat. |                   | course at slow speeds.
12. | 2/11/45 | 05-54 S | Sailboat | Approx Unk SD         | Avoided.
    | 1807   | 115-45 E | Native | 20,000            |
13. | 2/12/45 | 05-56 S | Sailboat | Unk SN                | Avoided.
    | 0559   | 112-40 E | Native |                   |
14. | 2/12/45 | 04-58 S | Sailboat | Approx West P         | Came alongside and passed
    | 1041   | 112-30.8 E | Malay | 14,000            | cigarettes & canned goods.
    |        |            |        |                   | Stern had word K.W.
    |        |            |        |                   | PEMBOEANG.
15. | 2/13/45 | 01-57 S | Sailboat | Approx Unk P          | Believed Native.
    | 0947   | 108-14 E |         | 20,000            |

-410-

— page 173 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(F) SHIP CONTACTS Cont'd.

No. | Time & Date | Lat & Long | Type | Initial Range | Est Crs & Speed | How Cont | Remarks
--- | | | ---- | | | |
16. | 2/13/45 | 01-29 S | Sailboat | Approx | Unk. | P | Believed native.
    | 1202 | 107-49 E | | 20,000 | | |
17. | 2/15/45 | 07-31 N | Sub | 12,500 | South | R | Exchanged Recognition
    | 1924 | 109-07 E | | | | | probably CHARR.
18. | 2/20/45 | 11-35 N | 1 AO | 18,000 | North | P | Attacked. Results
    | 1146 | 109-12 E | 2 DD(Matsu) | | 12 kt | | unobserved.
19. | 2/21/45 | 11-40 N | Unk | 6,400 | South | R | Unknown. No sound
    | 0306 | 109-17 E | | | 0 to 6 | | contact.
    | | | | | kts. | |
20. | 2/21/45 | 11-41 N | Unk | 5,500 | South | R | Unknown.
    | 0330 | 109-18 E | | | 0 to 5 | |
    | | | | | kts | |
21. | 2/22/45 | 11-43 N | 1 AO | 12,000 | North | P | Attacked DE. Missed.
    | 1225 | 109-11 E | 1 DE-UN 1 | | 12 kts | |
22. | 2/23/45 | 11-21 N | Unk | Est | South | SN | Believed small escort.
    | 0248 | 109-01 E | | 12,000 | | |
23. | 2/23/45 | 11-54 N | DE-UN 1 | 7,800 | North | P | Attacked by B-25's and
    | 1044 | 109-17 E | PC - 3 | 227(T) | | | retreated. Later sighted
    | | | or 4 small | | | | Unable attack.
    | | | AO's. | | | |
24. | 2/23/45 | 11-57 N | 1 AO | 12,000 | North | P | Unable to close less
    | 1235 | 109-18 E | 2 DE-UN 1 | | | | than 5,900 yds.
25. | 2/24/45 | Own Posit. | Hospital | 35,000 | South | SN |
    | 0116 | 11-23 N | Ship | from Lat | | 15 kts | |
    | | 109-33 E | | & Long in | | |
    | | | | Col. 3. | | |
    | | | | 345(T) | | |
26. | 2/25/45 | 11-33 | Hospital | 040(T) | South | SN |
    | 0211 | 109-17.5 | Ship | 27,000 | 17 kts | |
27. | 2/26/45 | 11-36 N | 3 large | 9,950 | North | R | Attacked successfully.
    | 2010 | 109-14 E | 3 Escorts | | 12 kt | |
28. | 2/27/45 | 11-00 N | 2 AO | 16,000 | North | SD | Unable close due air
    | 1715 | 108-57 E | 5 Escorts | | 14 kt | P | cover.
29. | 2/27/45 | Approx | Hospital | 142(T) | 252 | SN |
    | 2115 | 11-30 N | Ship | 18,000 | | |
    | | 109-20 E | | | | |

- 50 -

— page 174 —
No. | Time & Date | Lat & Long | Type | Initial Range | Est Crs Speed | How Cont | Remarks
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
30 | 3/5/45 | 14-48 N | U.S. Sub | 9,900 | East | R-SJ | Believed to be USS
   | 0221 | 118-10 E | GUAVINA | | | | GUAVINA
31. | 3/8/45 | 11-17 N | Sampan | 8,000 | 240 | P | Tracked. No attack made
    | 1816 | 108-59 E | PC escort | | 7.5 kt | |
32. | 3/10/45 | 11-18 N | 2 DE-UN1 | 13,000 | 17 kt | P | Presumed Anti-Sub sweep
    | 0950 | 108-59 E. | | | | |
33. | 3/16/45 | 11-34 N | Unk | 9,500 | 6.5 kt | R-SJ |
    | 0400 | 109-05 E | Probably | | | |
    | | | sailboat. | | | |
34. | 3/19/45 | 11-22 N | Unk | 11,500 | 0 to 5 kt | R-SJ |
    | 2242 | 109-01 E | Probably | | | |
    | | | sailboat. | | | |
35. | 3/20/45 | 11-22 N | 2 SB | 16,000 | 6 kt | P | Attacked and sank 2 SB's.
    | 1504 | 109-00 E | 2 SD | | | |
    | | | 4 PC | | | |
    | | | 1 DE | | | |
36. | 3/24/45 | 11-45 N | Unk | 5,500 | East | R-SJ | Believed COBIA or
    | 2348 | 109-26 E | Probably | | 10 kt. | | GUAVINA
    | | | COBIA or | | | |
    | | | GUAVINA | | | |
37. | 3/25/45 | 13-13 N | BLUEBACK | 28,000 | Var | P |
    | 0908 | 110-22 E | | | | |
38. | 3/27/45 | 14-37 N | USS HODGES | 20,000 | Var | R-SJ | Our escort to Subic
    | 0540 | 119-00 E | DE 231 | | | |

- 51 -

— page 175 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)
                                                                R - Radar
                                                                SD - Sight (day)
(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS                                           SN - Sight (Night)
                                                                P - Periscope

No. | Time & | Lat & | Type | Initial | Est.Crs | Hot | Remarks
    | Date   | Long  |      | Range   | & Speed | Cont|
----||-------|------|||-----|
1.  | 10 Feb 45 | Lombok | Unknown | 17,500  | NW      | R   | Tracked and lost.
    | 2345   |       |      |         |         |     |
2.  | 11 Feb 45 | 06-17 S | Dave | 14,000  | Various | SD  | Sighted with large AOB.
    | 1215   | 116-41 E |      |         |         |     | Turned to O AONB. Dived.
3.  | 12 Feb 45 | Java Sea | Bomber or | Approx | SE      | SD  | Sighted with large port
    | 1630   | North of | Transport | 24,000  |         |     | AOB. Sub not sighted.
    |        | Surabaya |      |         |         |     |
4.  | 16 Feb 45 | 09-33 N | PB4Y | 12,000  | West    | SD  | Fired flare. Plane de-
    | 1147   | 110-14 E |      |         |         |     | parted. No communication.
5.  | 17 Feb 45 | 10-54.5 N | PB4Y | 1,000   | West    | R   | Contacted on VHF.
    | 0907   | 109-55 E |      |         |         |     |
6.  | 18 Feb 45 | 11-15 N | Est  | 24,000  | North   | SD  | Believed PB4Y over coast.
    | 0932   | 109-30 E | PB4Y |         |         |     |
7.  | 18 Feb 45 | 11-15 N | Est  | 24,000  | North   | SD  | Believed PB4Y over coast.
    | 1234   | 109-29 E | PB4Y |         |         |     |
8.  | 19 Feb 45 | 11-17 N | PB4Y | 30,000  | North   | SD  | Believed PB4Y over coast.
    | 1345   | 109-18 E |      |         |         |     |
9.  | 20 Feb 45 | 11-38 N | Unknown | 25,000  | West    | P   | Large plane headed to-
    | 0905   | 109-09 E |      |         |         |     | ward Camranh Bay.
10. | 20 Feb 45 | 11-38 N | PB4Y | 4,000   | North   | P   | Low flying Liberator.
    | 0929   | 109-09.5 E |      |         |         |     |
11. | 20 Feb 45 | 11-38 N | Dave | Unk     | Various | P   | Dave maneuvering to
    | 0935   | 109-09.5 E |      |         |         |     | avoid PB4Y.
12. | 20 Feb 45 | 11-38 N | Dave | 2000    | Various | P   | PB4Y casually downed
    | 0936   | 109-09.5 E |      |         |         |     | this "Dave".
13. | 20 Feb 45 | 11-38 N | Dave | Unk     | Various | P   | Observed his colleague's
    | 1120   | 109-09 E |      |         |         |     | misfortune.
14. | 20 Feb 45 | 11-38 N | 1 Bomber | Unknown | Various | P   | Air cover for ship
    | 1221   | 109-09 E | 2 Daves |         |         |     | contact No. 18.
15. | 20 Feb 45 | 11-38 N | 3 Daves | Unknown | Various | P   | Air cover searching
    | 1435   | 109-09 E |      |         |         |     | astern of convoy.

                                                                - 52 -

— page 176 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)
(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS Cont'd.

No. Time & Lat & Type Initial Est.Crs. How Remarks
    Date Long          Range &Speed Cont

16. 2/21/45 11-37 N Dave Unknown South P
    0713    109-11.5 E

17. 2/21/45 11-37 N Unknown 2,000 North P Fighter.
    0830    109-11.5 E

18. 2/21/45 11-35 N Unknown Unknown Various P Fighter patrolling coast.
    1655    109-11 E

19. 2/22/45 11-39 N Dave Unknown South P
    0928    109-11.5 E

20. 2/22/45 11-39 N 3 Daves Unknown Various P Patrolling.
    1014    109-11 E

21. 2/22/45 11-39 N 2 Engine Unknown Circling P
    1040    109-11 E Bomber

22. 2/22/45 11-39 N 2 Daves Unknown Various P
    1202    109-11 E

23. 2/23/45 11-30   Dave 8,000 SSW P
    0705    109-07

24. 2/23/45 11-30   Dave Unknown South P
    0711    109-07

25. 2/23/45 11-33   Bomber Unknown Circling P
    0918    109-07.9

26. 2/23/45 11-32.5 4 B-25's 5-6 miles Various P Bombing unsighted convoy.
    1050    109-8.2

27. 2/23/45 11-32.5 N PB4Y 6 miles East P Recco plane
    1110    109-08.5 E

28. 2/23/45 11-32.5 N Fighter Unknown Unknown P
    1117    109-08.5 E

29. 2/23/45 11-32.5 N Dave Unknown Unknown P
    1214    109-08.5 E

30. 2/23/45 11-33 N 2 Nells Unknown Unknown P Convoy air cover.
    1352-   109-18.5 E 2 Daves
    1440               2 Bombers
                       3 Fighters

31. 2/23/45 11-25 N Unknown 2,600 Unknown R SJ Dived.
    2004    109-23 E

- 53 -

— page 177 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

No. | Time & Date | Lat & Long | Type | Initial Range | Est.Crs. & Speed | How Cont | Remarks
--- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | ---
32. | 2/24/45 | 11-41.8 N | Unknown | 10 miles | West | SD | Dived.
    | 1230 | 109-47.9 E | | | | |
33. | 2/25/45 | 11-42 N | Frances | 3 M. | 020(T) | P |
    | 0922 | 109-13.5 E | | | | |
34. | 2/25/45 | 11-44 N | 10 B-25's | 6 M. | 285(T) | P | Mission unknown. Headed
    | 1100 | 109-14.5 E | 7 Fighters | | | | for Camranh.
35. | 2/25/45 | 11-44 N | 4 Nells | 6 M. | 125(T) | P |
    | 1108 | 109-14.5 E | | | | |
36. | 2/27/45 | 10-55.8 N | PB4Y | 12 M | Unknown | SD | VHF contact.
    | 1228 | 109-04.9 E | | | | |
37. | 2/27/45 | 10-58 N | 2 Zekes | 6 M. | Circling | P | Convoy Air Cover.
    | 1712 | 108-47 E | | | | |
38. | 2/27/45 | 10-58 N | Zeke | 6 M. | 115(T) | P | Sighted and force to
    | 1825 | 108-47 E | | | | | dive.
39. | 2/27/45 | Approx | Unknown | 10 M. | Unk | R SD | Closed to 3 miles.
    | 2037 | 11-30 N | | | | | Dived.
    | | 109-15 E | | | | |
40. | 2/27/45 | " | Unknown | 11 M. | Unknown | R SD | Closed to 2½ miles.
    | 2127 | | | | | SJ | Dived.
41. | 2/28/45 | 13-08 N | PB4Y | 19,120 | West | R SJ | VHF contact.
    | 1058 | 111-16 E | | | | |
42. | 3/2/45 | 14-40 N | PBM | 5 M. | East | SD |
    | 0910 | 120-03 E | | | | |
43. | 3/5/45 | 14-47 N | 6 B-25 | 12 M. | West | SD |
    | 0728 | 116-59 E | | | | |
44. | 3/5/45 | 14-47 N | PBM(?) | 5 M. | North | SD |
    | 0755 | 116-42 E | | | | |
45. | 3/5/45 | 14-47 N | PB4Y | 12 M. | East | R SD |
    | 0825 | 116-32 E | | | | |
46. | 3/5/45 | 14-47 N | PB4Y | 2 M. | North | R SD |
    | 1137 | 115-46 E | | | | |
47. | 3/6/45 | 13-09 N | Unknown | 12½ M | Unknown | R SJ |
    | 0559 | 112-04 E | | | | |
48. | 3/8/45 | 11-15.6 N | Thelma | 2 M. | North | P. |
    | 1602 | 108-54 E | | | | |

- 54

— page 178 —
No | Time & | Lat & | Type | Initial | Est Crs | How | Remarks
   | Date   | Long |      | Range   | Speed   | Cont|
---||||||-----|
49.| 3/9/45 | 11-18 N | Thelma | 1½ m    | North   | P.  |
   | 1037   | 108-59 E |      |         |         |     |
50.| 3/9/45 | 11-17 N | Thelma | 5½ M    | North   | P.  |
   | 1743   | 108-57 E |      |         |         |     |
51.| 3/12/45| 11-00 N | Unk    | 10,000  | North   | SD  | Low flying 2 engine
   | 1352   | 109-05 E | 2 Engine |       |         |     | probably transport.
52.| 3/14/45| 11-39 N | 6 B-25 | 10,000  | South   | P   | B-25 shipping sweep.
   | 1025   | 109-12 E |      |         | 200 kt  |     |
53.| 3/17/45| 10-59 N | PB4Y   | 10,000  | Various | SD  | Recco plane over coast.
   | 1115   | 108-56 E |      |         |         |     |
54.| 3/18/45| 11-00 N | PB4Y   | 8 M     | Var.    | SD  | Patrol Plane
   | 1041   | 109-00 E |      |         |         |     |
55.| 3/20/45| 11-22 N | 4 B-25's | 5 M     | Var     | P   |
   | 1011   | 108-55 E |      |         |         |     |
56.| 3/21/45| 11-20 N | 2 engine | 9,800 yd| 040     | R-SJ| Stopped and he passed
   | 0238   | 109-20 E | possible |       | 87 kt   |     | overhead
   |        |          | Thelma |         |         |     |
57.| 3/21/45| 11-20 N | Unk    | 7500    | 190     | R-SJ| Believe same as No. 56.
   | 0514   | 108-55 E |      |         | 85 kt   |     |
58.| 3/21/45| 11-15 N | PB4Y   | 1500 yd | North   | P   | Patrol plane
   | 1215   | 109-00 E |      |         |         |     |
59.| 3/22/45| 11-19 N | PB4Y   | 10,000  | SW      | P   | Patrol Plane
   | 1315   | 109-00 E.|      |         |         |     |
60.| 3/24/45| 11-18 N | PB4Y   | 14 M    | Var.    | P   | Patrol Plane
   | 1213   | 108-59 E |      |         |         |     |
61.| 3/26/45| 14-47 N | Unk    | 13 M    | Unk     | R-SJ| Probably PB4Y.
   | 0826   | 113-47 E |      |         |         |     |
62.| 3/26/45| 14-47 N | 2 B-25's | 8 M     | East    | R-SD|
   | 1402   | 115-04 E.|      |         |         |     |
63.| 3/26/45| 14-47 N | Unk    | 5 M     | Unk     | R-SD|
   | 1444   | 115-15 E.|      |         |         |     |

- 55 -

— page 179 —
ATTACK No. 1

CONFIDENTIAL
Tubes Fired | No. 1 | No. 2 | No. 3 | No. 4 | No. 5 | No. 6
Track Angle | 120 | 124 | 128 | 131 | 134 | 137
Gyro Angle | 82½ | 84½ | 85½ | 85.50 | 80.10 | 82
Depth Set | 6' | 10' | 6' | 10' | 6' | 10'
Power | High | High | High | High | High | High
Hit or Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss
Erratic
(yes or no)
Mark Torpedo | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A | 14-3A
Serial No. | 39689 | 63569 | 66269 | 63834 | 63522 | 66236
Mark Exploder | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5
Serial No. | 26716 | 26644 | 10357 | 25987 | 27122 | 32500
Actuation Set | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact
Actuation Actual | None | None | None | None | None | None
Mark Warhead | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1
Serial No. | 15010 | 19590 | 15321 | 14780 | 15285 | 19563
Explosive | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx
Firing Interval | 8" | 8" | 8" | 8" | 8" | 8"
Type Spread | Conv. | Conv. | Conv. | Conv. | Conv. | Conv.
Sea Conditions | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2
Overhaul Activity | EURYALE | EURYALE | EURYALE | EURYALE | EURYALE | EURYALE

Remarks: The lack of hits probably was due to combination of large gyro and
         range error.

- 56 -

— page 180 —
CONFIDENTIAL

(II) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 PATROL NO. 2
TIME 1255 DATE 2-20-45 Lat 11-37.5 N Long 109-11.5 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: One large tanker escorted by two Matsu destroyers sighted through
periscope submerged in good conditions of visibility.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged 1 large tanker possibly damaged or sunk.
or Probably Sunk.

Damage Determined Observed black smoke shoot straight up from stack at about time
by: torpedoes should have hit. Did not hear any timed hits. Could
not observe target further because of counterattack.

Target Draft 35' Course 038 Speed 14 kt Range 1400 yd(at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed 3 kt Course 228 Depth 65' Angle 10 D (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

On this periscope approach the target was hugging the coast about 1000
yards off the beach. One Matsu DD escort was on his outboard bow and we crossed
this escort's bow, bow towards, causing him to pass astern about 500 yards. The
next Matsu DD was on the target's beam and we were just able to get inside him
on the bow to him as he approached and to avoid firing steam torpedoes from
course and a delayed time of firing which gave us an average gyro of 83° right.
on our ping range after two tries, our tracked range had to be pretty good or large
errors might result. However, with 6 torpedoes fired spread for ten degrees it
seems difficult to believe that at least one hit was not obtained. Unfortunately
immediate and severe depth charging resulted which prevented continued observation
of the target. The black puff of smoke that shot straight up from the target's
funnel at about the time a hit should have been heard could have been a hit in the
engineroom. It is possible but not likely that such a hit could not have been
heard.

- 57 -

— page 181 —
ATTACK NO. 2

CONFIDENTIAL
Tubes fired | No 7 | No 8 | No 9 | No 10
Track Angle | 080 | 084 | 088 | 090
Gyro Angle | 168 | 169.30 | 171.20 | 172.30
Depth Set | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6'
Power
Hit or Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss | Miss
Erratic | No | No | No | No
(yes or no)
Mark Torpedo | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1
Serial No | 53883 | 56001 | 55625 | 54541
Mark Exploder | 4-7 | 4-7 | 4-7 | 8-5
Serial No | 17310 | 17049 | 16981 | 10266
Actuation Set | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact
Actuation Actual | None | None | None | None
Mark Warhead | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2
Serial No. | 1118 | 1306 | 1031 | 1576
Explosive | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx
Firing Interval | 10" | 10" | 10" | 10"
Type Spread | Conv. | Conv. | Conv. | Conv.
Sea Conditions | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1
Overhaul Activity | EURYALE | EURYALE | EURYALE | EURYALE
Remarks: Misses must have been due to torpedo depth of 6' being to great for
         depth of target. State of sea prevented use of a shallower setting.

- 58 -

— page 182 —
CONFIDENTIAL

(HO) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 PATROL NO. 2

TIME 1255 DATE 2-22-45 LAT 11-38 N LONG 109-12.2 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Target was a DE UN-1 leading escort for small tanker of the
Anastasia class. The other and trailing escort was also a
DE UN-1. Contact was made when submerged by periscope, first
alerted by pinging.

Ship(s) Sunk: None.

Ship(s) Damaged
or Probably Sunk: None

Damage Determined -
by:

Target Draft 6' Course 045 Speed 10 Range 2000 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed 2 Course 340 Depth 63' Angle 10 D (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

On this approach an escort DE UN-1 was fired at instead of a small tanker
although the tanker was in a position more favorable to be fired at. This escort
was chosen as a target because it was thought that the small tanker was a Q ship.
The identification is believed to have been an error. The mistake was made
because (1) Pinging was heard on the bearing of the tanker, nothing else being
visible on that bearing. (2) The tanker looked unusually small (Sugar Charlie
Class) to be escorted by an escort which with the small angle on bow observable
looked like a destroyer. (3) The tanker and escort had just came from the direction
where over 40 depth charges had been dropped tending to make it appear possible
this was a killer group.

The tanker was hugging the coast but diverged sufficiently to permit us to
get on his land side. From that position we fired 4 electrics at the DE who was
on the tanker's seaward bow on what looked like a perfect set up. However, believe
he drew less than 6 feet and torpedoes ran under. Target was not alerted and we
observed both ships pass from periscope depth plus a second DE who brought up
astern and had been the source of the second pinging. Just before firing it was
realized the target was a DE UN-2 and not a Matsu DD.

- 59 -

— page 183 —
ATTACK NO. 3 A

CONFIDENTIAL

Tubes fired - No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4
Track Angle 092 095 098 100
Gyro Angle 348.20 348 347 346.30
Depth Set 6' 6' 6' 6'
Power High High High High
Hit or Miss Hit Hit Miss Miss
Erratic No No No No
(yes or no)
Mark Torpedo 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A
Serial No. 63995 63881 63897 63815
Mark Exploder 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5
Serial No. 32577 32585 32557 32545
Actuation Set Contact Contact Contact Contact
Actuation Actual Contact Contact None None
Mark Warhead 16-1 16-1 16-1 16-1
Serial No. 14723 14672 14727 15274
Explosive Tpx Tpx Tpx Tpx
Firing Interval 8" 8" 8" 8"
Type Spread Conv. Conv. Conv. Conv.
Sea Conditions 1 1 1 1
Overhaul Activity EURYALE EURYALE EURYALE EURYALE
Remarks: Two hits; two misses because of spread.

- 60 -

— page 184 —
CONFIDENTIAL

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3A PATROL NO. 2
TIME 2336 DATE 2/2/645 LAT 11-7 N LONG 109-18 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: This was a convoy of 3 identical large new construction type 10,000
ton tankers with erect fairly large size funnels set fairly well aft, about two
steps to bow, catwalks und with but a short single signal halyard mast mounted on
bridge. Measured by subtension in periscope against ping ranges taken on two of
them, length was 500 feet. All three escorts were DE UN-1

Ship(s) Sunk: None

Ship(s) Dam- One (1) large 10,000 ton tanker.
aged or Pro-
bably Sunk:

Damage Deter- This tanker was seen hit by two Mk. 14 torpedoes which instantaneous-
mined by: ly spread flame from bow to stern that rose several hundred feet in
air. Target was observed stopped and burning for the next 4 hours. Smoke from
this direction was observed for the next 48 hours. Although reconnaissance aircraft
were known to have been over the area each day after this attack, none of the
tankers in this convoy were reported as having been sighted after the attack, nor
were they so reported by any submarines.

Target Draft 28 Course 340 Speed 10 Range 1200 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed 3.4 Course 272 Depth 64' Angle 0 (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

This convoy of 3 large tankers and 3 DE UN-1 escorts was picked up in
bright moonlight shortly after surfacing, against a land background simultaneously
by eye and radar. An end around was made and periscope attack made within 3000
yards of coast by moonlight. A position inside the seaward escort and on the
seaward flank of the leading escort was obtained from which point 4 Mk 14's were
fired at a ping range of 1250 yards on the leading ship of 3 large tankers in
column. Two hits were obtained which set target on fire from bow to stern and
effectively illuminated area for subsequent attacks on targets two and three.

- 61 -

— page 185 —
ATTACK NO. 3 B

CONFIDENTIAL

Tubes Fired No. 6
Track Angle 125
Gyro Angle 001.30
Depth Set 6'
Power High
Hit or Miss Hit
Erratic No
(yes or no)
Mark Torpedo 14-3A
Serial No. 39254
Mark Exploder 6-5
Serial No. 27150
Actuation Set Contact
Actuation Actual Contact
Mark Warhead 16-1
Serial No. 19744
Explosive Tpx
Firing Interval -
Type Spread -
Sea Conditions 1
Overhaul Activity EURYALE
Remarks: 1 hit, no misses.

- 62 -

— page 186 —
CONFIDENTIAL
(H) ATTACK DATA
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3B PATROL NO. 2
TIME 2340 DATE 2/26/45 LAT 11-7 N LONG 109-18 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted
Description: This was a convoy of 3 identical large new construction type 10,000
ton tankers with erect fairly large sized funnels set fairly well aft, abouttwo
steps to bow, catwalks, and with but a short single signal halyard mast mounted
on bridge. Measured by subtension in periscope against ping ranges taken on two
of them, length was 500 feet. All three escorts were DE UN-1.
Ship(s) Sunk: One (1) large 10,000 ton tanker.
Ship(s) Dam- None
aged or Pro-
bably Sunk:

Damage Deter- Target shot a stream of black smoke straight up from funnel at
mined by: time Mk 14 torpedo explosion was heard. No spray or fire could be
seen in the moonlight and fire light from another burning tanker,
but within about 15 minutes waves had risen and target was
completely invisible despite a range of 000°-30' and a run of 1000 yards obtained by ping range it seems hard to believe
it possible to miss the target. All three escorts were milling around for a least
the next two and a half hours indicating there were probably a number of survivors left in the water from
this target and the third one. Although reconnaissance aircraft were known to
have been over the area each day after this attack none of this convoy were re-
ported as having been sighted after the attack nor were they so reported by any
submarine.

Target Draft 28' Course 090 Speed 10 Range 900 (at firing)
Own Ship Data
Speed 3.5 Course 145 Depth 64' Angle 10 D (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data
This convoy of 3 large tankers and 3 DE UN-1 escorts was attacked in bright
moonlight by periscope from a position inside the seaward escort. The scene had
been brightly illuminated by flames from the leading of the three tankers in
column when the second and third tankers in column executed a 90° right turn.
Ship was swung and the remaining Mk. 14 torpedo forward fired with a zero gyro and
1000 yard torpedo run based on a ping range. A puff of black smoke from funnel
was seen simultaneously with a timed hit. Fifteen minutes later target disappeared
behind waves despite the fact that it was only about 3000 yards away and escorts
could clearly be seen.

- 63 -

— page 187 —
ATTACK NO. 3 C

CONFIDENTIAL
Tubes Fired - | No. 7 | No. 8 | No. 9 | No. 10
Track Angle | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152
Gyro Angle | 161.30 | 159.30 | 158.30 | 157
Depth Set | 6' | 6' | 6' | 6'
Power | High | High | High | High
Hit or Miss | Miss | Miss | Hit | Miss
Erratic | No | No | No | No
(yes or No) | | | |
Mark Torpedo | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1 | 18-1
Serial No. | 56442 | 53879 | 56707 | 56075
Mark Exploder | 4-7 | 8-5 | 4-7 | 4-7
Serial No. | 16592 | 9285 | 17056 | 17206
Actuation Set | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact
Actuation Actual | None | None | Contact | None
Mark Warhead | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2 | 18-2
Serial No. | 1038 | 1579 | 1011 | 1315
Explosive | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx
Firing Interval | 10" | 10" | 10" | 10"
Type Spread | Conv. | Conv. | Conv. | Conv.
Sea Conditions | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1
Overhaul Activity | EURYALE | EURYALE | EURYALE | EURYALE
Remarks: 1 hit; 3 misses due to spread.

- 64 -

— page 188 —
CONFIDENTIAL

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. GLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3C PATROL NO. 2

TIME 2350 DATE 2/26/45 LAT 11-7 N LONG 109-18 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: This was a convoy of 3 identical large new construction type 10,000
ton tankers with erect fairly large funnels set fairly well aft, about two steps
to bow, catwalks, and with but a short single signal halyard mast mounted on
bridge. Measured by subtension in periscope against ping ranges taken on two of
them length was 500 feet. All 3 escorts were DE UN-1.

Ship(s) Sunk: One (1) large 10,000 ton tanker.

Ship(s) Dam-
aged or Pro- None.
bably Sunk:

Damage Deter- The third tanker fired at shot a puff of black smoke straight up
mined by: from his funnel at time a timed hit was heard. Although no flame
could be seen torpedoes could no longer be heard running after this explosion.
Another explosion was heard immediately thereafter which may have been a boiler
explosion. Target was at a range of about 3900 yards at this point and was being
viewed through periscope in bright moonlight by the light from
of this inadequate illumination white
spray from a torpedo hit in an engine room probably would have been unsighted.
perfectly. Target was then observed to disappear behind waves which seemed to rise
shortly thereafter despite their small size. All three escorts were milling around
for at least the next two and a half hours indicating nothing remained to escort
further and also indicating there were probably a number of survivors left in water
from this and the second target.

Although reconnaissance aircraft were known to have been over the area ea
each day after this attack none of this convoy were reported as having been sighted
after the attack nor were they so reported by any submarine.

Target Draft 28' Course 000 Speed 10 Range 3060 (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed 3.5 Course 245 Depth 64' Angle 1° D (at firing)

Fire Control & Torpedo Data

This convoy of 3 large tankers and 3 DE UN-1 escorts was attacked in
bright moonlight by periscope from a position inside the seaward escort. The scene
had been brightly illuminated by flames from the leading of the three tankers in
column. The second and third tankers made 90° right and later 90° left turns. It

- 65 -

— page 189 —
CONFIDENTIAL

(H) ATTACK DATA for Number 3C TORPEDO ATTACK Cont'd.

was after the second ship had steadied down on its approximate original course
that 4 electrics were fired aft with an average gyro of 159, average run 3700,
average track 149 Port spread for an 800 foot target. Range had been measured
using subtension of 500 foot target in periscope field. This method had been
amazingly accurate when used on the other two targets and continued observations
during torpedo run tracked perfectly. At about the same time as a timed hit was
heard a column of black smoke shot straight up from the funnel and another ex-
plosion was heard a few seconds afterwards that sounded unlike a depth charge.
Within a few minutes waves seemed to pass in front of target and it was lost to
view although the DE escorts were clearly visible.

- 66 -

— page 190 —
ATTACK NO. 4

CONFIDENTIAL
Tubes Fired | No. 7 | No. 8 | No. 9 | No. 10
Track Angle | 120 S | 123 S | 126 S | 128 S
Gyro Angle | 191.40 | 194 | 191 | 193.30
Depth Set | 6' | 6' | 5' | 6'
Power | High | High | High | High
Hit or Miss | Hit | Miss | Hit | Hit
Erratic | No | No | No | No
(yes or no) | | | |
Mark Torpedo | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23
Serial No | 49917 | 49929 | 49907 | 49731
Mark Exploder | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5 | 6-5
Serial No | 25519 | 19485 | 27738 | 25656
Actuation Set | Contact | Contact | Contact | Contact
Actuation Actual | Contact | None | Contact | Contact
Mark War Head | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1 | 16-1
Serial No | 19427 | 19485 | 2731 | 15001
Explosive | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx | Tpx
Firing Interval | 8" | 8" | 8" | 8"
Type Spread | Conv. | Conv. | Conv. | Conv.
Sea Conditions | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1
Overhaul Activity | GRIFFIN | GRIFFIN | GRIFFIN | GRIFFIN

- 67 -

— page 191 —
CONFIDENTIAL

(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 4] PATROL NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 2] (second half)

TIME [HANDWRITTEN: 1600] (H) DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 3/20/45] LAT [HANDWRITTEN: 11-17.5 N] LONG [HANDWRITTEN: 108-55.5 E]

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Convoy of 4 medium sized engines aft ships and 5 escorts sighted at
16,000 yards against land background when submerged. 4 targets composed of 2
medium sized engines aft, bridges amidships ships and 2 possibly smaller engine
aft ships position of bridge not certain but believed amidships. 2 ships dark grey
DE UN-2, 2 PC class 1 or 4, 2 PC or converted yacht class with fat stack, pronounced
sheer as in PC 13 class at least as long as PC 13 and with 1 gun forward.

Ship(s) sunk: 1 grey camouflaged medium sized engines aft, bridge amidships ship
carrying oil, gasoline or both.
1 tropical green camouflaged medium or possibly as small as 3000
tons engines aft, bridge amidships ship, cargo unknown.

Ship(s) Damaged
or Probably Sunk: None

Damage Deter- 1 hit timed and observed in green camouflaged ship which sent
mined by: tremendous column of slate grey smoke skywards as if hit in engine
room.
1 hit timed and observed amidships in grey camouflaged ship which
sent large wide burst of flame several hundred feet into air. 2nd hit timed in green
ship not observed because looking at No. 2 target. Heard escaping air venting from
one ship as she sank 1 minute after hits. Sounded like noise we heard on last
patrol when a transport sank. Capsized portion of grey ship including bow was seen
next day a few miles down current from attack. One hour and nine minutes after
attack, 2 PCs were milling around scene of attack and there was no evidence of smoke
from damaged ships in that direction indicating they sank.

Target Draft [HANDWRITTEN: 21'] Course [HANDWRITTEN: 090] Speed [HANDWRITTEN: 7.5] Range [HANDWRITTEN: 2290] (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed [HANDWRITTEN: 2½] kt Course [HANDWRITTEN: 210] Depth [HANDWRITTEN: 63'] Angle [HANDWRITTEN: 1° D] (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

On this periscope approach the targets hugged the coast within about 1000
yards of the beach. In order to get close enough to the targets to fire without
presenting a large angle on the bow to the escorts it was necessary to go under
the leading escort, a DE, and to then veer to seaward for a stern tube shot to
avoid firing from a position directly ahead of an escort on the seaward flank of
the last ship in column. All of this maneuvering passed escorts prevented any
tracking of the targets. Consequently a snap set up was made prior firing using
target's speed as that obtained by tracking the DE, 7.5 knots, course from angle
on bow, and range obtained from chart knowing our navigational position from a cut
of the beach. A later plot of the attack indicates the targets were probably closer making
and assuming target to be 1000 yards from beach. A later plot of the attack in-
dicates the targets were probably closer making the first target over-
lapping a ship beyond by 75% and a ship's length behind the second target hit.
Because of this bunching up, the bow of the first ship was used as a point of aim and
torpedoes were spread for a 600 ft. target.

- 68 -

— page 192 —
[HANDWRITTEN: N]
[HANDWRITTEN: ATTACK # 3]
[HANDWRITTEN: TARGETS IN COLUMN ON]
[HANDWRITTEN: COURSE 340° SPEED 10 K]
[HANDWRITTEN: DE 0]
[HANDWRITTEN: FIRED]
[HANDWRITTEN: FIRED]
[HANDWRITTEN: DE]
[HANDWRITTEN: FIRED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 'A']
[HANDWRITTEN: 'B']
[HANDWRITTEN: 'C']
[HANDWRITTEN: FROM POSIT LII-57N λ 109-19E FIRED]
[HANDWRITTEN: 4 AT TANKER 'A', 1 AT TANKER 'B', 4 AT]
[HANDWRITTEN: TANKER 'C' AT 1330-2350 H FEB 26]
[HANDWRITTEN: T-R]
[HANDWRITTEN: SHORT DIVE - A]
[HANDWRITTEN: 1800 YDS]
[HANDWRITTEN: SCALE 1" = 500 YDS]

— page 193 —
CONFIDENTIAL
(H) ATTACK DATA

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) TORPEDO ATTACK NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 4] PATROL NO. [HANDWRITTEN: 2] (second half)
TIME [HANDWRITTEN: 1600] (H) DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 3/20/45] LAT [HANDWRITTEN: 11-17.5 N] LONG [HANDWRITTEN: 108-55.5 E]

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description: Convoy of 4 medium sized engines aft ships and 5 escorts sighted at
16,000 yards against land background when submerged. 4 targets composed of 2
medium sized engines aft, bridges amidships ships and 2 possibly smaller engine
aft ships position of bridge not certain but believed amidships. 2 ships dark grey
camouflage, 1 tropical green camouflaged, other not noted. Escorts composed of 1
DE UN-2, 2 PC class 1 or 4, 2 PC or converted yacht class with fat stack, pronounced
sheer as in PC 13 class at least as long as PC 13 and with 1 gun forward.

Ship(s) sunk: 1 grey camouflaged medium sized engines aft, bridge amidships ship
carrying oil, gasoline or both.
1 tropical green camouflaged medium or possibly as small as 3000
tons engines aft, bridge amidships ship, cargo unknown.

Ship(s) Damaged
or Probably Sunk: None

Damage Deter- 1 hit timed and observed in green camouflaged ship which sent
mined by: tremendous column of slate grey smoke skywards as if hit in engine
room.
1 hit timed and observed amidships in grey camouflaged ship which
sent large wide burst of flame several hundred feet into air. 2nd hit timed in green
target. Heard escaping air venting from
one ship as she sank 1 minute after hits. Sounded like noise we heard on last
patrol when a transport sank. Capsized. Portion of grey ship including bow was seen
next day a few miles down current from attack. One hour and nine minutes after
attack and there was no evidence of smoke from damaged ships in that direction indicating they sank.

Target Draft [HANDWRITTEN: 21'] Course [HANDWRITTEN: 090] Speed [HANDWRITTEN: 7.5] Range [HANDWRITTEN: 2290] (at firing)

Own Ship Data

Speed [HANDWRITTEN: 24 kt] Course [HANDWRITTEN: 210] Depth [HANDWRITTEN: 63'] Angle [HANDWRITTEN: 1° D] (at firing)

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

On this periscope approach the targets hugged the coast within about 1000
yards of the beach. In order to get close enough to the targets to fire without
presenting a large angle on the bow to the escorts it was necessary to go under
the leading escort, a DE, and to then veer to seaward for a stern tube shot to
avoid firing from a position directly ahead of an escort on the seaward flank of
the last ship in column. All of this maneuvering passed escorts prevented any
tracking of the targets. Consequently a snap set up was made prior firing using
target's speed as that obtained by tracking the DE, 7.5 knots, course from angle
on bow, and range obtained from chart knowing our navigational position from a cut
and assuming target to be 1000 yards from beach. A later plot of the attack in-
dicates the targets were probably closer making about 6 knots. Fortunately the
targets were bunched up, the first target overlapping a ship beyond by 75% and a
ship's length behind the second target hit. Because of this bunching up, the bow of
the first ship was used as a point of aim and torpedoes were spread for a 600 ft.
target.

- 68 -

— page 194 —
(I) MINES

Enroute to the area one heavily barnacled several horned mine was sunk
by 20mm fire in the Java sea close to Annie Florence Reef in Lat 05-06 S,
Long 113-09 E on February 12, 1945.

In the area within a few miles radius of a point 20 miles south of Cape
Padaran light floating mines were destroyed by 20mm fire as follows:

12 March 1945 1 Sunk
17 March 1945 1 Exploded
2 sunk

One exploded when not over 125 yards of the ship and enveloped us in
spray and smoke. The shock was comparable to a depth charge about 300 yards
away. (Note: When shooting mines it has been and continues to be our policy to have
all personnel topside wear helments.)

These mines had 4 crenelated horns about 10 inches long, a lifting pad,
and a plug in their top as if for sealing off the buoyancy chamber.

(J) ANTI SUBMARINE MEASURES.

Surface Escorts.

The attacks of most escorts on this patrol can be characterized as
hurried, innaccurate, and seemingly made as if afraid of counterattack. On
only one of four attacks was an effective counterattack delivered and this was
by a Matsu destroyer who couldn't miss by using seaman's eye alone to
launch depth charges due to 6 wakes (steam torpedoes) and firing slicks being
thrown out within a couple of hundred yards of him. His barrage of 18 or 19
depth charges was highly effective in covering the area. Most charges seemed to
be set for around a 150 feet, or about the depth of water, while those set
shallow must have been close to 75 feet. Running at 130 feet they seemed close
both ways and shook the boat severely although only minor damage was sustained.
This destroyer probably ran out of depth charges as we had heard nearly 100
charges dropped on the GUAVINA by the same outfit.

On two other attacks escorts failed to make contact, once because they
did not have any idea as to our original position and the other time because
although aware of torpedo launching point they failed to make contact (PC boats)
due to rocky bottom and our rapid clearing of the spot.

On an unsuccessful attack with electrics escorts were not alerted.

The presence of radar horns on a Matsu DD was verified on one periscope
approach and 10 Cm interference from a DE's radar was noted when ending around
in a force 5 sea. Apparently range had to be less than 8,500 yards for him to
detect us and then his contact was not too positive.

- 69 -

— page 195 —
[HANDWRITTEN: ATTACK #4]

[HANDWRITTEN: MUISUNGRAN]
[HANDWRITTEN: 25 FATHOM CURVE]

[HANDWRITTEN: TANKERS]

[HANDWRITTEN: FORMATION COURSE 090]
[HANDWRITTEN: SPEED 6]
[HANDWRITTEN: POSITIONS AT TIME OF]
[HANDWRITTEN: HITS]

[HANDWRITTEN: SCALE 1" = 500 YDS]

[HANDWRITTEN: PC D]

[HANDWRITTEN: DE]
[HANDWRITTEN: S TRACK]
[HANDWRITTEN: PC]

[HANDWRITTEN: PC]

[HANDWRITTEN: FROM POSIT L 11-17.5N λ 104-55.5E FIRED 4]
[HANDWRITTEN: TORPEDOES AT TANKERS AT 1614 H MARCH 20]

— page 196 —
[HANDWRITTEN: ATTACK # 1]

[HANDWRITTEN: ODD]

[HANDWRITTEN: DD U]
[HANDWRITTEN: FIRED]
[HANDWRITTEN: SS]

[HANDWRITTEN: TARGET]

[HANDWRITTEN: SHORE LINE]

[HANDWRITTEN: AFTER ROUNDING
HON DO ISLAND, TARGET
COURSE 025 SPEED 11]

[HANDWRITTEN: scale 1"=500y]

[HANDWRITTEN: FROM POSIT L 11-37.5 N
λ 109-11.5 E FIRED 6
TORPEDOES AT TANKER AT 1225 H FEB 20]

— page 197 —
[HANDWRITTEN: ATTACK # 2]

[HANDWRITTEN: SHORE]
[HANDWRITTEN: LINE]

[HANDWRITTEN: SST TRACK]

[HANDWRITTEN: SCALE 1": 500 YDS]

[HANDWRITTEN: DE UN-1]

[HANDWRITTEN: DE UN-1]

[HANDWRITTEN: AFTER ROUNDING HON DO]
[HANDWRITTEN: ISLAND TARGET COURSE 045°]
[HANDWRITTEN: SPEED 10]

[HANDWRITTEN: FROM POSIT L 11-38N λ 109-12.2 E FIRED 4]
[HANDWRITTEN: TORPEDOES AT DE-UN-1 AT 1305 H FEB 22]

— page 198 —
(J) ANTI SUBMARINE MEASURES Cont'd.

Air Escorts

In daytime air escorts seemed completely ineffective. Float planes and
transports were used considerably. Rough water helped to prevent disclosure of
the periscope or hull silhouette when submerged. When ending around in daylight
on a convoy, a fighter plane (the first seen used as escort) picked us up and
drove us under strafing the diving spot. We were too close to convoy so it was
not due to plane's efficiency - as a matter of fact convoy was contacted by
sighting float plane escorts who never sighted us.

At nighttime of two convoys ended around with radar plane coverage, one's
plane escorts were stupidly inefficient and permitted us to maintain contact with
convoy at from 12000 - 16000 yards and with surface escort who knew we were there
at 8000 yards without ever coming over to drive us down. A convoy sighted several
days later had learned the lesson and air escorts roved outboard for some 10 miles
and forced us down preventing BLENNY and BECUNA from attaining an attack position.

Single night radar search planes were infrequently used at night except
when patrolling an area close to the beach. When stopped in the dark, plane detected
us, investigated us, but being unable to see us, departed apparently considering
us to be a large sampan or possibly Japanese ship since we did not dive

Patrol Boats

No activity from patrol boats was encountered.

Convoy Routings.

All convoys or shipping sighted hugged coast along the 10-20 fathom
curves allowing all escorts to guard one flank, that to seaward. There was one
exception to this. One large tanker escorted by 2 DES and heavy air cover
diverged coast commencing at Hon Do and passed 11.5 miles off Camranh Bay entrance.
This may have been done in an effort to avoid B-25 strikes on coast one of which
had preceded their arrival off Hon Do by a couple of hours. Target zigzagged little
if at all when hugging coast.

Evasion Tactics.

They may be summarized as follows.

(1) When firing steam torpedoes get off track as fast as possible using
full speed and then progressively slow: to 70 turns. When firing
electrics endeavor to evade at periscope depth at slow speed then
increase to 70 turns when fairly well clear.

(2) Fire false targets at firing point when shooting steam fish and when-
ever targets go to short scale pinging or seem to be coming in fast
from fairly close.

(3) Choose an intermediate depth (in shallow water) from 100 to 130 feet ie,
between charges set for periscope depth and those set just less than
bottom depth.

- 70 -

— page 199 —
(J) ANTI SUBMARINE MEASURES Cont'd.

Air Escorts

In daytime air escorts seemed completely ineffective. Float planes and
transports were used considerably. Rough water helped to prevent disclosure of
the periscope or hull silhouette when submerged. When ending around in daylight
on a convoy, a fighter plane (the first seen used as escort) picked us up and
drove us under strafing the diving spot. We were too close to convoy so it was
not due to plane's efficiency - as a matter of fact convoy was contacted by
sighting float plane escorts who never sighted us.

At nighttime of two convoys ended around with radar plane coverage, one's
plane escorts were stupidly inefficient and permitted us to maintain contact with
convoy at from 12000 - 16000 yards and with surface escort who knew we were there
at 8000 yards without ever coming over to drive us down. A convoy sighted several
days later had learned the lesson and air escorts roved outboard for some 10 miles
and forced us down preventing BLENNY and BECUNA from attaining an attack position.

Single night radar search planes were infrequently used at night except
when patrolling an area close to the beach. When stopped in the dark, plane detected
us, investigated us, but being unable to see us, departed apparently considering
us to be a large sampan or possibly Japanese ship since we did not dive

Patrol Boats

No activity from patrol boats was encountered.

Convoy Routings.

All convoys or shipping sighted hugged coast along the 10-20 fathom
curves allowing all escorts to guard one flank, that to seaward. There was one
exception to this. One large tanker escorted by 2 DEs and heavy air cover
diverged coast commencing at Hon Do and passed 11.5 miles off Camranh Bay entrance.
This may have been done in an effort to avoid B-25 strikes on coast one of which
had preceded their arrival off Hon Do by a couple of hours. Target zigzagged little
if at all when hugging coast.

Evasion Tactics.

They may be summarized as follows.

(1) When firing steam torpedoes get off track as fast as possible using
full speed and then progressively slow to 70 turns. When firing
electrics endeavor to evade at periscope depth at slow speed then
increase to 70 turns when fairly well clear.

(2) Fire false targets at firing point when shooting steam fish and when-
ever targets go to short scale pinging or seem to be coming in fast
from fairly close.

(3) Choose an intermediate depth (in shallow water) from 100 to 130 feet ie,
between charges set for periscope depth and those set just less than
bottom depth.

- 70 -

— page 200 —
(J) ANTI SUBMARINE MEASURES CONT'D

     (4) Keep stern to trackers when possible.

     (5) When attackers are coming, in, speed up and change course to avoid
         a steady bearing.

     (6) If possible when your initial whereabouts is not known take
         advantage of rocky coast line by escaping along it gradually open-
         ing from it when you can get yourself fairly well clear of searchers.

     (7) Just before depth charges are expected to explode I like to slow
         to 1/3 or 2/3 speed as I hate to think of the control cubicle and
         bus bars bouncing around from depth charge shocks when they are
         pulling a higher rate of current.

     To avoid radar planes first try to be where they won't search-close to
shoreline where your presence is not so likely to be expected at night and where
pip will be hard to pick up. Secondly if night is dark stop, secure engines,
kill headway and let plane buzz by. Thirdly if moonlight is bright, dive and
the chances are you can surface pretty soon and the plane will be gone.

     To avoid submarines patrolling submerged in the moonlight, zig zag
radically and use two engine speed, try to avoid spots they may favor. BERGALL
says a coincidental change of from 2 to 4 engine speed as well as a change of
course caused a Nip fish fired in the moonlight to miss astern.

                                                                 - 71 -

— page 201 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

HULL

1. Port HP air compressor - Improper operation and failure to operate at de-
   signed capacity necessitated replacement of all rings on forward piston.

2. Steering line - Hydraulic oil leak developed when three days out enroute
   patrol area. It was finally discovered in hydraulic line to after star-
   board steering ram. Leak was stopped by draining line and silver soldering.

3. Air conditioning condensors - Rather heavy depth charging knocked loose the
   lower plug end of tube supports in both air conditioning condensors, thus
   allowing gas to escape from condensor. Plugs were reinstalled in proper
   position and after several attempts ship's personnel succeeded in making
   these installations gas tight by silver soldering.

ENGINEERING

1. Main Motor Lube Oil Lines.

   During severe depth charging the bushings on the L.O. lines to the forward
   bearings of #1 and #2 M.M.s sheared off. Repair was made by ship's force.

2. Cracked Liner.

   #2 unit of #3 M.E. showed definite signs of water leaking into unit when
   it was blown down in preparation for starting.

   Unit was pulled but no crack could be found in either liner or head. Many
   pin holes were observed in the line but it was impossible to determine
   if these holes went through to the water jacket.

   A new line was installed and the leakage stopped.

ELECTRICAL

1. Galley Dough Mixer.

   Motor for dough mixer in galley burned out. This is the fourth time this
   has happened in as many months. The motor has been throughly checked by both
   SubDiv 181 and the ship's force and found to be electrically and mechanically
   satisfactory.

   The armature was rewound by the U.S.S. GRIFFIN on 4 March and the mixer has
   been in operation since then.

2. Main Motor Brushes.

   A decided chatter developed in #2 M.M. Upon investigation three (3) brushes
   were found to be at fault. Two (2) had loose rivets and the third had a
   cocked hammer plate.

- 72 -

— page 202 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

HULL

1. Port HP air compressor - Improper operation and failure to operate at de-
   signed capacity necessitated replacement of all rings on forward piston.

2. Steering line - Hydraulic oil leak developed when three days out enroute
   patrol area. It was finally discovered in hydraulic line to after star-
   board steering ram. Leak was stopped by draining line and silver soldering.

3. Air conditioning condensors - Rather heavy depth charging knocked loose the
   lower plug end of tube supports in both air conditioning condensors, thus
   allowing gas to escape from condensors. Plugs were reinstalled in proper
   position and after several attempts ship's personnel succeeded in making
   these installations gas tight by silver soldering.

ENGINEERING

1. Main Motor Lube Oil Lines.

   During severe depth charging the bushings on the L.O. lines to the forward
   bearings of #1 and #2 M.M.s sheared off. Repair was made by ship's force.

2. Cracked Liner.

   #2 unit of #3 M.E. showed definite signs of water leaking into unit when
   it was blown down in preparation for starting.

   Unit was pulled but no crack could be found in either liner or head. Many
   pin holes were observed in the liner but it was impossible to determine
   if these holes went through to the water jacket.

   A new line was installed and the leakage stopped.

ELECTRICAL

1. Galley Dough Mixer.

   Motor for dough mixer in galley burned out. This is the fourth time this
   has happened in as many months. The motor has been throughly checked by both
   SubDiv 181 and the ship's force and found to be electrically and mechanically
   satisfactory.

   The armature was rewound by the U.S.S. GRIFFIN on 4 March and the mixer has
   been in operation since then.

2. Main Motor Brushes.

   A decided chatter developed in #2 M.M. Upon investigation three (3) brushes
   were found to be at fault. Two (2) had loose rivets and the third had a
   cocked hammer plate.

- 72 -

— page 203 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE, Cont'd.

     A spray of carbon dust was also noted on the commutators of all motors.
     The commutators were swabbed, the faulty brushes renewed and the chatter
     disappeared.

3.   Battery Disconnect Switch.

     During severe depth charging the forward port battery disconnect switch
     was forced up through the battery deck. The switch was intact but could
     not be returned to the level of the deck. Repair was made by the U.S.S.
     GRIFFIN on 3 March.

4.   Pit Log.

     All pit log connections and adjustments were loosened by the same depth
     charging. Many attempts were made to adjust pit log underway but all
     failed. Satisfactory adjustment of the log could not be obtained until
     the ship was dead in the water.

5.   Main Motor Cooler.

     The drain line of #2 M.M. inboard cooler leakage compartment developed a
     slow steady leak. By the relief crew of the U.S.S. GRIFFIN decided that this
     leak was not sufficient to warrant repair or the time necessary to in-
     vestigate it. The leak has since stopped.

6.   Casualties Resulting from Diving with Conning Tower Hatch Open.

     A. The following equipment was flooded out.

          1. #2 Air compressor motor.
          2. #2 Air conditioning circulating water pump motor.
          3. Trim pump motor.
          4. SJ training motor.
          5. Booster blower motor for hull ventilation.
          6. Reostat and switch for #2 air conditioning circulating water pump
             motor.
          7. Lighting circuit resulting in a 105V ground.
          8. Conning tower battle phones.

     B. Particulars Concerning above items are as follows:

          Grounded equipment was treated as follows:

     1.   #2 Air Compressor Motor.

          Inspection showed about 4" of water in the bottom of the motor. This
          was immediately pumped out.

          The forward end bell and the top half of the after end bell were re-
          moved. It is impossible to remove the bottom half of the after bell with-
          out moving the motor or the compressor.

- 73 -

— page 204 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE, Cont'd.

The motor was then hosed down with fresh water and blown as dry as
possible. A tent was built around the motor and it was dried by means
of light bulbs and a heater for 24 hours.

At the end of this drying period a zero ground still persisted on one
shunt field coil and one interpole coil. These coils were removed and the
drying continued.

The spare shunt coil was unformed and in this state it was impossible to
install it in the motor with out removing the armature. Accordingly the
grounded coil was cleaned, completely reinsulated and installed.

The spare interpole coil was satisfactory. It was insulated in
preparation for installing.

After the coils were installed the following readings were obtained:

Shunt field 800 000 ohms
Interpole coil 25 megs
Series Field 35 megs
Armature 75 megs

A reading taken at the fuse box showed 200 000 ohms. The motor was re-
turned to commission in the hope that use would bring it up. The compressor
does not show a ground on the electrical circuit while in use.

2. #2 Air conditioning Circulating Water Pump Motor.

Inspection of this motor revealed a zero ground on one interpole coil and
considerable grime in the bottom of the yoke.

To remove the end bells of this motor it was necessary to move the motor.
This was done and the end bells removed.

The grounded interpole was removed, and washed first with fresh water
and then with alcohol and dried. The motor was
yoke was washed with fresh water and alcohol and dried. The motor was
assembled and returned to commission with the following readings:

Armature 9 megs
Interpole coil 9 megs
Main field coil 11 megs

3. Trim pump Motor.

One brush grounded on this motor and burned out its insulation. This
was renewed and the motor returned to use.

- 74 -

— page 205 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE, Cont'd.

4. SJ Training Motor.

   An investigation of this motor showed a zero ground on the armature and
   one main field coil.

   The armature was removed, soaked in fresh water and baked dry. The main
   field coil was removed and replaced from spares. The motor was cleaned and
   dried.

   Before assembling the motor the following readings were obtained:

     Armature           5 megs
     Main fields       15 megs
     Interpoles         5 megs
     Series fields      5 megs

   After the motor was assembled and operated the armature reading
   dropped to 200 000 ohms.

5. Booster blower Motor for Hull Ventilation.

   This motor is completely water tight and only the switch was grounded.
   The switch was cleaned and rewired and the blower returned to service.

6. Rheostat and Switch for #2 Air Conditioning Circulating water Pump Motor.

   The switch was cleaned and dried. The rheostat was renewed. The cable
   from the rheostat to the starting box was grounded. This cable was too
   short to cut the grounded end off so the entire cable was renewed.

7. Ground on Lighting Circuit.

   The 105v ground on the lighting circuit was traced to three (3)
   sockets around the conning tower hatch. These were cleaned up and the
   ground removed.

8. Battle Phones.

   Conning tower battle phones. These were washed with fresh water, dried
   and returned to service.

                                   ORDNANCE

1. Torpedoes.

   Mk XIV-3A's were carried forward and Mk 18-1's aft for the first half
   of this patrol. No great difficulty was experienced with these torpedoes
   although the "electrics" aft needed closer care because six of them were
   "turn ins" from other boats.

                                   - 75 -

— page 206 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE, Cont'd.

The normal charging cycle on this ship is seven days but it was found
necessary to shorten it to six days to stay within the allowable limits of
gravity drop. Two cells in torpedo #56075 were grounded to the battery
case and were jumped out. Two hydrogen burner wires burned out and were
replaced.

Four Mk XIV-3A torpedoes remaining from the original load by U.S.S.
EURYALE were retained on board and twenty Mk 23 torpedoes were loaded
from U.S.S. GRIFFIN. No comments.

2. Tube Defect (Attack #3B).

All bow tubes were ready for Attack 3A and four torpedoes were fired
at the leading tanker.

After firing the first four torpedoes, the leading torpedoman's mate
heard, or thought he heard, the word to "rig for depth charge". He there-
upon secured tubes #5 and #6. The gyro regulator operator, over whose
phones (JA) all orders to the tubes are transmitted, then said that the
word had not been passed and the "make ready" process was started over
immediately. When the "ready to fire lever" was thrown to the "ready to
fire" position on #5, the tube fired. The "standby" switch was not "on" and
the electric firing key and hand firing button were not depressed. The
forward torpedo room informed conning tower that #5 had fired. This
happened just prior to time Commanding Officer was getting ready to fire
#5 and #6 at second target.

After "battle stations", the firing system was completely checked and
everything seemed to be in order. Several attempts were made to repeat
the ab-normal performance, but on all occasions the operation was normal.

When the accidental firing occurred the torpedoman's mate between the
tubes noticed that the action of #5 stop piston was sluggish; this would
indicate a leaky stop cylinder valve (sometimes called "relay valve"). If
this valve leaks, pressure is built up on the forward side of the stop
piston and the piston is free to move as soon as the shutter bar is lined
up by throwing up the "ready to fire lever".

This failure has occurred once before on #1 tube during trials at
Newport. However, at that time the tube fired at or about the time that
the conning tower "standby" switch was turned on and the failure was believed
to be a "short". This could not be verified by subsequent tests of the
firing circuits.

The instructions in the present tube check off lists call for observing
weekly, with 225# service air cut in, any slight movement of the stop piston
as a check for leaky "relay valves". It is felt by the ship's torpedo
officer that a weekly inspection of the relay valve units would be an
additional advantage.

- 76 -

— page 207 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE, Cont'd.

2. Guns.

   No opportunity presented itself to use the guns other than to explode
   or scuttle five floating mines with 20mm fire. Topside gear was greased
   and worked out at least twice a week. A spare breech block and automatic
   loader for the 40mm guns is carried on board and allows an overhaul and
   change every two weeks.

(L) RADIO.

   No major defects were experienced. TBL and RBH were salted slightly
   when water entered radio shack via ventilation louvre during the conning
   tower hatch episode on the 19th of March 1945.

   We hope to have an additional RBH or RAL installed this refit to guard
   the additional lifeguard and plane recco frequencies made desirable by
   recent trends in operations.

- 77 -

— page 208 —
(M) RADAR - MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.

1. SJ-1 RADAR

A. Performance.

During the first half of the patrol the SJ gave very good performance when
it was working, but the troubles seemed endless. Most of the troubles were
far from common. The most interesting, curious and unexplainable was the
opening of the Crystal Current meter moving coil and the echo box microammeter
about the same time. As far as is known there were no abnormal conditions
previous to this trouble.

The second half of the patrol was uneventful as far as radar troubles
were concerned except for a very bad horizontal jitter on the lobe-switching
pip and a partial flooding of the Transmitter. After flushing it out with
fresh water and drying everything was back to normal, or above normal. The
ring-time jumped up to 5400 yards just after this.

The new type echo-box provides an ideal quick and accurate check of the
overall performance of the set as well as an excellent check on the receiver
and crystal sensitivity, TR tube condition, magnetron power output and
frequency. Prior to the flooding the ringtime was kept between 5300 and 5350
yards. After this it went up to 5400 yards.

The Multivibrator-amplifier for listening to interference (to aid in radar
communications) was not successful, but only because of its too sensitive
triggering point and its tendency to become "free-running". Several resistor
combinations were tried to remedy this, but without success.

Wooden sailboats from 15 to 100 feet were picked up at ranges from 1000
to 12,000 yards. Land was picked up at 15,000 yards, although the general
sweep. A U.S. submarine was picked up at about 11,000 yards
a twin-engined bomber at 800-1000 yards, and unknown types at unknown elevation
were tracked out to 32,000 yards. The PC boat at Lombok was picked up at
9000 yards and tracked out to 10,500 yards. A 10,000 ton tanker was tracked
well at 25,000 yards.

B. Recommended Suggestions.

It is difficult to definitely identify SJ interference, and the prevalence
of reports of Jap 10 Cm. radar makes the need of identification urgent. It is
suggested that a coaxial cable be run from the SJ video to the SPA so positive
identification of SJ interference can be had.

A true relative bearing indicator should be installed above the SJ range
indicator.

- 78 -

— page 209 —
(M) RADAR - MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE Cont'd.

2. SD-4 RADAR.

        There were only two troubles with the SD, which gave very good per-
        formance this patrol. The slack-wire switches and lower-limit switches
        jumped out of adjustment very often. The other trouble was a burned out
        filament of the CRT.

        Ranges and tuning stability were good and reliable. 5000 foot land
        gave good indications at 40 miles; two B-29-B-25's at 500 feet were tracked to 25
        miles; a Jap twin engined bomber was picked up at 8 miles - elevation was
        800 - 1000 feet; a U.S. Flying Boat at 1000 feet was picked up at 20 miles.

        The SD was used sparingly. In general it was used for a short interval
        just before surfacing in daylight and at night whenever APR contacts got as
        loud as gain setting six it was keyed to determine when contact got danger-
        ously close. Whenever an APR contact was made the SD was automatically warm-
        ed up.

        Particular care was taken to rig the SD mast for depth charge immediate-
        ly upon submerging by rotating the stopper plug in the base of the mast
        90°. I have always considered the two porcelain insulators in the SD mast
        the weakest point in the watertight integrity of a submarine when the
        stopper plug is not rigged. Any boat who has them carry away on depth
        charge without the plug in probably would not come back to tell the tale.

3. IFF Equipment

        The IFF equipment was only used twice, and each time it is doubtful
        if the target had his turned on or if it was in working condition. All
        tests made indicated our equipment was operating correctly.

- 79 -

— page 210 —
(M) RADAR - MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE Cont'd.

C. Tabulated List of Trouble Shooting.

Symptom: Reg. Rect. B voltage dropped to 20 volts. No sweeps.
Trouble: Polystyrene insulating sleeve was missing from beat osc. output
         probe, hence B was grounding out on output jack block.
Remedy: Wrapped probe with Scotch tape until replacement could be had.

Symptom: Step on Range Ind. moves in 2000 yard jumps.
Trouble: Timing wave amplifier, V-505, 6AC7, was out.
Remedy: Replaced with new tube.

Symptom: Pulse MV-Amplifier inoperative.
Trouble: Resistor in plate circuit of second half of MV tube had charred
         and decreased in value to 28,000 ohms.
Remedy: Replaced resistor with a 50,000 ohm. 2 watt resistor. This was
         probably not the correct value, for the set seemed much too sensitive
         after this.

Symptom: SD21 current approx. 20, HV Rect. Voltage greater than 1.2 KV, Xtal
Trouble: Isolated to L-1, 300 Ma. AFC switched ON, etc.
         coil, which was found to be open.
Remedy: Replaced with bakelite spare, a 10 H iron cored reactor.

Symptom: PPI cut of operation, Red "cat's-eye" not lit.
Trouble: No high voltage.
Remedy: Replaced burned out HV fuse.

Symptom: No sweeps, no spot, cat's-eye not lit on Range Ind.
Trouble: No high voltage. 2X2 had scored and cracked glass.
Remedy: Replaced with new tube.

Symptom: Transient loss of echos and Xtal current. Ring time from echo-box
         reduced from 5300 to 2700 yards. When gain turned down, ring time
         looked like this:
         /
         /
Trouble: Trouble finally traced to open moving coil in Xtal current meter.
         Set had not been subjected to more than 0.7 Ma before this.
Remedy: Replaced burned out meter with moving element
         of same model and type of a voltmeter.

Symptom: SD21 current high, HV Rect. voltage low. No Xmtr. pulse, no echos.
Trouble: Found bad 836 tube in HV Rect.
Remedy: Replaced bad tube.

Symptom: Pronounced dip in ring time just after Xmtr pulse.
Trouble: T-R tube failure.
Remedy: Replaced T-R tube.

- 80 -

— page 211 —
(M) RADAR - MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE Cont'd.

Symptom: Ring time down to 4000 yards, Echo box meter deflection low.
Trouble: Expected weak magnetron. After replacing magnetron the set could
not be tuned properly. The crystal chuck was found binding.
Remedy: Replaced complete crystal chuck assembly and retuned set to
normal operation.

Symptom: Intermittent loud arcing in PPI. Sweeps did not start at center
of screen.
Trouble: Found R-44, 7 Meg, burned out.
Remedy: There was no spare, so pencilled in burnedout portion, wrapped with
insulating tape and varnished with electrical varnish. Worked
satisfactorily.

Symptom: Echo from lobe switching jittery horizontally.
Trouble: Cleaned and adjusted lob switching switch in head with no improvement.
Checked complete lobe switching circuit in Range Indicator and re-
placed tube. Found nothing wrong. Tried varying the Reg. Rect.
voltage to this tube with no improvement.

Symptom: No meter deflection on Echo box.
Trouble: Found moving element on Microammeter open.
Remedy: Replaced with APR Microammeter, which would not give a large enough
deflection.

- 81 -

— page 212 —
(N) SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS:

1. Defects and Damages.

   The cable to the QB soundhead was pulled apart just prior to an attack.
   This was due to the cover of the limit-switch box not being properly secured
   after our refit at Fremantle. This permitted the hex stop nuts to rotate with
   the shaft and hence let the sound head rotate several revolutions before
   stopping it.

   The new cable on the QB was sheared later due to carelessness in lowering
   the head.

2. Sound Conditions.

   The water in this locality (Camranh Bay to about 20 miles South of Cape
   Padaran) proved to be isothermal to at least 180 feet, making sound conditions
   good. Close into shore the sound conditions were best in the early morning, and
   nearer to the surface they became poorer later in
   the day.

   As usual JP performed excellently, being especially valuable in shallow
   water when evasive tactics were necessary, close to the bottom where sound heads
   had to be rigged in. The best performance was to pick up heavy screws at
   18,000 yards.

   WCA-2 gear performed well, too. Several times the JK and the QB picked
   up medium sized sailing craft (50 to 100 feetlong) at ranges as great as 2500
   yards. The sound was a high noise level made by waves slapping the sides.

   The only short scale pinging heard during the entire patrol was from a DD.
   The water was about 200 feet deep. Perhaps it was due to reverberations or
   poor Jap sound operators, but no other shortscale pinging was heard. At one time
   in 115 feet of water we passed almost directly under a DE at 85 feet on opposite
   course. He was not aware of our presence. Following our attack on this
   convoy, enemy pinging was heard at 1616 and 17.4 Kc. The escort vessels were
   one DE and 4 PC's.

- 82 -

— page 213 —
(O) DENSITY LAYERS
The area in and around Camaranh Bay is shallow water and hence no
deep dives were made.

The average injection temperature for the latter half of the month
of February was 68° F and the water was isothermal as deep as we dove.

The average injection temperature for the month of March was 70° F
and the water was 70° F and the water was isothermal as deep as we dove.

The following cards were taken enroute to the area.

Card   Time      Date        Position      Isothermal   Temp   Neg Grad
1      1200 GCT  5 Feb 1945  31-46 S       400'         73°    None
                             115-05 E
2.     0300 GCT  9 Feb 1945  15-10 S       135'         84°    Greater than
                             114-42 E                           400 ft.
3.     0600 GCT  11 Feb 1945 6-13 S        170'         84°    Greater than
                             116-42 E                           280 ft.

All cards have been forwarded to the Chief of Naval Operations.

                                                                - 83 -

— page 214 —
(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY.

(A) Health.

In general the health of the crew was excellent. One SM2c, who was battle
station bow planesman, was unable to undergo the mental strain of depth charges
or explosions of any nature. This was his second offensive war patrol, the first
also having been made on the BLENNY. This man appeared jittery at times on the
first patrol, but went to pieces completely on the second. He was treated by
the pharmacist's mate with pheno barbital sodium capsules and put to bed. At all
times when danger was not immediately imminent, his performance of duty was
satisfactory. The man was transferred to the relief crew at Subic Bay during
re-load period.

The following cases were treated on board:

1. Two G.C. Infection, Urethra. Exposed in Perth W.A. Dried under sul-
   fathiazol therapy.
2. Two fungus infections of the ear.
3. Two ankle sprains.
4. Two; diagnosis undetermined (possibly Dengue or Malaria Fever)

(B) Food.

For the benefit of other boats using the same facilities, it should be
mentioned that hamburger meat which we purchased from NSD at Fremantle, W.A.
was of a very inferior quality, being mostly gristle and fat hardly fit for
consumption.

Other meat bought from commercial cuts as steaks contained merely four or
five steaks stuck on the end of a roll of stew meat. There was no opportunity
to inspect this purchase before loading, so the defect only became apparent when
it was thawed for use. Some steak meat obtained from the U.S.S. GRIFFIN at Subic
Bay was very good except that in butchering it had been so badly mauled that it
was only good for soups and stews.

(C) HABITABILITY

An approved alteration substituting 1000 gallon per day evaporators for the
present 750 gallon per day evaporators is outstanding. It is hoped that equip-
ment will be available to provide this improvement after this patrol.

It is suggested that air mattresses of dimensions about 2' x 6' be provided
with a view to using them in torpedo skids as torpedoes are expended. This
would help reduce the unpleasantness of hot bunks.

The cool waters off Indo China made temperature conditions very pleasant.
On several days we either had no airconditioning or only one plant operating.
Ventilating through the main induction effectively cooled and dried the air. CO2
absorbent and oxygen were used freely towards the end of the patrol to increase
habitability during the 14 hour dives with 89 officers and men aboard.

Few new books were available for the second patrol. A book exchange run by
the tender would permit the circulation of all books held by boats in the squadron.

- 84 -

— page 215 —
(Q) PERSONNEL

(a) Number men on board during patrol - 80
(b) Number men qualified at start of patrol - 42
(c) Number men qualified at end of patrol - 51
(d) Number of unqualified men making their first patrol - 18
(e) Number men advanced in rating during patrol - 14

The performance of officers and men was of the highest order as usual.
During the relatively severe depth charging on the 20th the crew stood their
ground magnificently. After flooding out various electrical gear during the
hatch casualty on the 19th, the electrical department is deserving special
credit for the long hours and skillful work put in recommissioning it. It is a
decided pleasure to have such a fine group of officers and men to work with
and at no time was their support anything less than a complete 100%.

(R) MILES STEAMED - FUEL USED.

Base to Area (Fremantle to Barrier plus Subic to Maxi) 1966 mi.-25,060 gal.

In Area - 6371 miles - 67,050 gallons

Area to Base - Maxi to Subic twice - 800 miles - 13,000 gallons.

(S) DURATION (Feb 5 - March 27)

(a) Days enroute to area - 7
(b) Days in area - 39
(c) Days enroute to base - 3
Days in Subic Bay - 2
(d) Days submerged - 19

(T) FACTORS OF ENDURANCE REMAINING

Torpedoes        Fuel        Provisions        Personnel Factor
20               73,000 gal  42 days           10 days

Limiting factor this patrol - Orders.

- 85 -

— page 216 —
(U) RADAR COUNTER MEASURES

          As usual the APR - SPA combination gave its valuable, trouble-free per-
formance. The need for a directive antenna and bearing indicator is still great.
The null on the present antenna could be used for direction finding without
sacrificing the non-directional antenna pattern. This would be possible if the
present antenna could be rotated 180°.

                                A DISCUSSION OF APR vs JAP RADAR PLANES
                                          "He's on us"

I.      Gain setting of SPA vs bearing and range of plane.

        A. We have collected the following data on Jap 157 Mc airborne radar:

        Range                   Relative Bearing        SPA Gain

        10,000 yards                    352                 5
        16,000 yards                    215                 5

        B. Probable APR antenna pattern: This represents the relative range
           and bearing at which our APR will pick up a 157 Mc. radar if it is
           always pointed at us.

II.     Fact and supposition concerning the Operation, Installation and Tactics
        of Jap 157 Mc. Radar Plane.

        A. After initial APR contact has been made, often the intensity of the
           signal will suddenly increase for a short time, (about 5 seconds), and
           just as suddenly go back to its previous strength.

        1. A Betty captured at Saipan had three radar antennas; one "narrow-
           beam" radar mounted on the bow, and one non-directive antenna on each
           side. Another plane had a "broad-beam" antenna on the leading edge
           of either wing. It may have had a "narrow-beam" antenna on the bow.
           The probable antenna pattern resulting therefrom is shown on the
           next page.

                                          - 86 -

— page 217 —
(U) RADAR COUNTER MEASURES
[HANDWRITTEN: Directive
Beam]
[HANDWRITTEN: Search
Pattern]

The object of having two types of antenna installations is to have a
relatively non-directional pattern for search and a directional pattern
for tracking or attack approach. It is probably that both the search and
attack antennas are not used at once. At the same range, the narrow
beam would sound louder because the same amount of energy would be
concentrated in a narrower beam.

When a Jap plane "keys" his radar or takes a "ping range" on you he has
probably picked you up on his search antenna and is getting an accurate
bearing. He may be checking the bearing, too. When he goes to "half-
power" after keying he is either keeping a radar lookout for U.S. radar-
equipped night fighters or else he has lost his target and is trying to
find it again with his search pattern.

B. After initial APR contact has been made and often after "keying" the
radar, the contact will suddenly disappear.

1. It is well know that the Japs can "home" on the radiations of our
SD radar. They can probably also home on the radiations of our radio
transmitter, VHF, (either transmitting or receiving), IFF signals,
and SJ radar. They are known to have radar search receivers, and un-
doubtedly they have some directive antennas for these search receivers
To be effective a search receiver must be very sensitive, and hence
would be easily "jammed" by any low frequency radar in the immediate
vicinity. Thus, for a Jap plane
(in the low-frequency range) it is assumed he must secure his radar.

C. From the data obtained from our APR and SPA we can safely estimate that
the absolute minimum range of the Jap 157 Mc. radar is about 1600 yards,
and due to "wave pips" his probable minimum range is 3000 yards, being
greater if there is a rough sea.

III. Conclusions.

1. With a Jap 157 Mc. contact on the APR, and with the APR gain at maximu,
the SPA gain being reduced to 5, the absolute minimum range is estimated
at 6,000 yards.

2. If his signal increases in strength suddenly, he probably "has you" on
his radar screen, and is getting an accurate range and bearing.

- 87 -

— page 218 —
(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTER MEASURES Cont'd.

3. If he secures his radar suddenly, either he is so close that he
   cannot "see" you on his screen, or else he is trying to get an
   accurate bearing on some radiation from you. He may also just be
   listening to find out if there is any radiation from you.

4. It is safe to take a "ping range" with either radar as long as his
   radar is on.

5. He cannot bomb by radar alone - he must visually see you, either by
   wake, moonlight, or flare.

Other radar contacts were all land-based, low frequency, probable early
warning radars, guarding the entrance to Camranh Bay. We thought we located one of
the stations South of Camranh on the top of a 1017 ft. hill at 11-44.1 N and
109-12 E. The first time it was seen it looked like a rectangular antenna array.
(Feb. 26). The next time we saw it, it looked more like a leafless tree (about
March 15). This may have been due to a bombing. No emanations on 205 or 209 Mcs
were picked up after 7 March in this area lending credence to this supposition.

Radio Jamming.

No jamming was attempted against our radio transmissions.

- 88

— page 219 —
(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES

INTERCEPTION OF ENEMY RADAR TRANSMISSIONS

1. Ship or Station U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324).

2. Area covered on this mission (give date): Cape Padaran to Comranh Bay
   French Indo China - 20 February 1945 to 25 March 1945.

3. Was enemy radar: Shipborne ______ Airborne ______ Landbased Yes Unknown ______ ?

4. Intercept Equipment: APR - SPA.

5. (a) Frequency 209 Mc Dial Readings 209
   (b) PRF 1200 How measured SPA
   (c) Pulse Widths 10 How measured SPA
   (d) Sketch pulse:
   [Image of a pulse waveform]

   (e) Was Lobe switching used No
   (f) Polarization of enemy signal unknown
   (g) Sweep Rate: 1 minute to 3 minutes

6. Was radar used for surface or air search, GL, SLC, GCI, OR AI:
   Unknow probably air.

7. Action of enemy radar, including distances and bearings at which he
   searched, tracked, faded, etc.: Continuous Search.

- 89 -

— page 220 —
(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES Cont'd.

INTERCEPTION OF ENEMY RADAR TRANSMISSIONS

1. Ship or Station: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)
2. Area covered on this mission (give date): Cape Padaran to Comranh Bay,
   French Indo China - 20 February 1945 to 25 March 1945.

3. Was enemy radar: Shipborne Landbased Yes Unknown

4. Intercept Equipment: APR - SPA

5. (a) Frequency 205 Mc Dial Readings 205
   (b) PRF 1000 How Measured SPA
   (c) Pulse Widths 8 How measured SPA
   (d) Sketch pulse
   [HANDWRITTEN: (drawing of a pulse shape)]

   (e) Was Lobe switching use: No
   (f) Polarization of enemy signal: Unknown.
   (g) Sweep Rate: 1 minute to 3 minutes

6. Was radar used for surface or air search, GL, SLC, GCI, or AI:
   Unknow, probably air search.

7. Action of enemy radar, including distances and bearings at which he
   searched, tracked, faded, etc: Continuous Search.

- 90 -

— page 221 —
(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES Cont'd.

INTERCEPTION OF ENEMY RADAR TRANSMISSIONS

1. Ship or Station: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)
2. Area covered on this mission (give date) Cape Padaran to Comranh Bay,
   French Indo China - 20 February 1945 to March 25, 1945.
3. Was enemy radar: Shipborne ______ Airborne ______ Landbased Yes Unknown.
4. Intercept Equipment: APR - SPA
5. (a) Frequency 157 Mc Dial Readings 157
   (b) PRF 500 How measured SPA
   (c) Pulse Widths 7 How measured SPA
   (d) Sketch pulse
   [HANDWRITTEN: Probably reflection of his pulse]
   [HANDWRITTEN: from nearby Beach]
   (e) Was Lobe switching used No
   (f) Polarization of enemy signal: Unknown
   (g) Sweep Rate: 1 minute to 3 minutes
6. Was radar used for surface or air search, GL, SLC, GCI, or AI:
   Unknown, probably surface.
7. Action of enemy radar, including distances and bearings at which he
   searched, tracked, faded, etc: Tracked us with APR gain 5, SPA gain 5.

- 91 -

— page 222 —
(U) RADIO AND RADAR COUNTERMEASURES Cont'd.

INTERCEPTION OF ENEMY RADAR TRANSMISSIONS

1. Ship or Station: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

2. Area covered on this mission (give date) Cape Padaran to Comranh Bay,
   French Indo China - 20 February 1945 to 25 March 1945.

3. Was enemy radar: Shipborne [HANDWRITTEN: ] Airborne Yes Landbased [HANDWRITTEN: ] Unknown [HANDWRITTEN: ]

4. Intercept equipment: APR - SPA

5. (a) Frequency 157 Mc Dial Readings 157
   (b) PRF 1000 How measured SPA
   (c) Pulse Widths 6 How measured SPA
   (d) Sketch pulse
   [IMAGE OF A PULSE WAVEFORM]

   (e) Was lobe switching used: No.
   (f) Polarization of enemy signal: Unknown
   (g) Sweep Rate: Irregular

6. (a) Was radar used for surface or air search, GL, SLC, GCI, OR AI.
   Air and surface search.

   (b) Evidence for this conclusion: Saw plane - passed directly overhead.

7. Action of enemy radar, including distances and bearings at which he
   searched, tracked, faded, etc: Tracked us and passed overhead.

- 92 -

— page 223 —
(V) REMARKS

All shipping sighted hugged the coast within two miles with the ex-
ception of one tanker and 2 DE escorts which were seen to diverge from the coast
just off Hon Do and clear the entrance to Camranh Bay by 11.5 miles. With
the exception of one convoy, all shipping had heavy air escorts both night
and day. Two convoys were contacted running in the moonlight. The Japs
apparently favor this moonlight movement because it enables them to evade portions
of the coast where daylight air strikes are inevitable and because it catches
all the submarines surfaced and out of position for submerged attacks. Being
off base so to speak radar planes can prevent us from coming around and diving
for attack.

Methods of circumventing these tactics are suggested as follows:

1. Boats conducting submerged patrol (which should be all in the area
but the one standing surface life guard duty) should patrol about 3000 yards off
the beach in the daytime. To take advantage of the confusion and dispersal
of escorts existing following an attack the following should be tried. It might
prove eminently successful. Station two or three boats along one stretch of the
coast so that each boat patrols a three mile area parallel to coast, areas
separated by about 6000 yards. The dogged and persistent way in which the Japs
hug the coast makes it likely they would go through 2 if not 3 attacks before
changing their route.

2. At nighttime, boat which has been surfaced during daytime should
close coast and cover it inside of 6 miles. Other boats while charging can haul
out as far as they consider necessary but should close in again as soon as
possible.

3. Whenever aircraft reconnaissance furnishes information of convoy
movements impending at night in moonlight all but one boat in pack should be
close enough to coast to dive and close it so at the first indication of the
presence of radar search planes. Once down they can receive VHF communications
by SD antenna periodically from the surfaced boat who can keep clear and relay
recco plane information or his own tracking information.
In certain cases it may be wise to have the boat which has been surfaced in
daylight submerge for the night close to the coast.

A prerequisite to making attacks on heavily escorted convoys in 30
fathoms of water or less close to the beach is a complete load of Mk 18
torpedoes. Boats patrolling in these area should be furnished them.

Evasion in shallow water close to a rocky coast did not prove as
difficult as expected. The Japs do have trouble in gaining and holding contact
in such waters and can be expected not to pick you up during approach if you
show a small angle on bow to them and are close to a shoaling rocky bottom.

Much southbound junk traffic was sighted, large 75 to 100 foot junks
sailing by at from 5 to 7 knots by the dozen from 5 to 10 miles off the coast.

- 93 -
[HANDWRITTEN: 5 04637]

— page 224 —
(V) REMARKS Cont'd.

Despite the fact that Subic is not Australia, the elimination of
the long trek to and from Fremantle saves a lot of wear and tear on the
ship, her officers, and crew. There is no doubt about it that portions of
that journey are as wearing on the nerves as anything encountered in the area.
The short few day run to friends and mail at Subic with a correspondingly
short return run to action and expended torpedoes has many advantages.

The misidentification of a Sugar Charlie for a Q ship during the first
part of the patrol is regretted. However had we hit the DE we did fire at,
the ship's morale would have been boosted just as much if not more than had
we hit the tanker.

- 94 -

— page 225 —
FC5-26/A16-3 SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY SIX
Serial ( 071 ) Dn
Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
31 March 1945.

FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS BLENNY report of
Second War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of 2nd War Patrol.

1. The second war patrol of U.S.S. BLENNY was con-
ducted in the South China Sea off the southeast coast of French
Indo China. It lasted for a period of 51 days, two days of
which were spent in Subic Bay alongside U.S.S. GRIFFIN for re-
load and accomplishment of minor repairs. A total of 35 days
were spent in the assigned area, 20 of which were submerged.

2. Area coverage was excellent, a high proportion
of the time in the area was spent in very close patrol both
during day light and darkness. The numerous plane contacts
and the frequency with which sampans and other small craft
were sighted in the area undoubtedly served to make this a
strenuous period for the Commanding Officer. Of the seven
worth while ship contacts four were attacked. A total of 14
torpedoes were fired, one inadvertently, with the following
results:

ATTACK NO. 1: While patrolling submerged a large tanker
escorted by two MATSU destroyers was sighted on a northeasterly
course. Six steam torpedoes were fired at the tanker from the
bow tubes at an average torpedo run of 1400 yards. Large gyro
angles were accepted to clear the screening vessels. This was
a well executed attack and adequate spread was used. However,
no hits were heard and because of immediate counter measures by
the escorts the target could not be kept under observation.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2: When patrolling submerged, very
close to the position of attack no. 1, a small tanker escorted
by a DE was sighted on a northeasterly course. In view of the
small size of the tanker and mistaking the escort for a DD the
Commanding Officer selected this vessel as his target. Four
electric torpedoes were fired from the stern tubes at a range
of 2000 yards. All torpedoes missed, probably due to under-
running the target. Near the time of firing a second escort
was sighted astern of the tanker. It is considered that the
Commanding Officer erred in not selecting the tanker as his
target when the sea conditions did not permit use of less than
six foot depth setting.

- 1 -

— page 226 —
FC5-26/A16-3 SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY SIX
Serial ( 071 ) Dn
CONFIDENTIAL Care of Fleet Post Office,
San Francisco, California.
Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of 2nd War Patrol.
31 March 1945.

— page 227 —
FC5-26/A16-3 SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWENTY SIX
Serial ( 071)

CONFIDENTIAL

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of 2nd War Patrol.

— page 228 —
FE24-71/A16-3 UNITED STATES NAVY
Serial 0677 14/pr
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
16 April 1945.
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLENNY Conf. Ltr. A9
Serial 06, dated 27 March,
1945. Report of Second
War Patrol.

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

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of Second War
Patrol - Comment on.

1. The Second War Patrol of the BLENNY, under the
command of Commander V. H. HAZZARD, U.S.N., was conducted off the
coast of INDO-CHINA, and consisted of two phases separated by a
short stay in SUBIC BAY for torpedo reload and voyage repairs.
During first phase, BLENNY was a member of a coordinated group con-
sisting of BECUNA (OTC), BLENNY and GUAVINA. During second phase
BLENNY coordinated her patrol with BLUEBACK (OTC), BERGALL, BECUNA
and BAYA.

2. The first attack was a submerged periscope attack on
20 February. The attack was pressed home in a most commendable
manner, but no hits were made. On 22 February, BLENNY was again in
an excellent position and this time the torpedoes apparently under-
ran the target. No hits were observed.

3. Following these two aggressive, but unsuccessful
attacks, BLENNY executed two more attacks which resulted in an out-
standing amount of damage to the enemy. During the evening of 26
February, BLENNY attacked a formation of three large tankers sub-
merged, and within seventeen minutes had damaged two large tankers
and sunk a third. On 20 March, BLENNY made a submerged attack on a
convoy, passed beneath a DE escort in the screen to achieve his
firing position, and proceeded to perform the illustrious feat of
sinking one large AK, and two medium AKs with four torpedoes. BLENNY
showed very considerable skill in shallow water evasion after this
attack, and withdrew following a very modest counter-attack.

4. The patrol is considered to have been conducted in a
manner carefully calculated to aggressively search out and attack any
and all enemy traffic in this area. The close-in searches of the
coast, and of PADARAN and PHANRANG BAYS, as well as the carefully
selected positions for daylight patrol are worthy of study. This
is considered one of the most outstanding of recent patrols on the
coast.
[HANDWRITTEN: x]
[HANDWRITTEN: 04637]
- 1 -
[HANDWRITTEN: 5]
[HANDWRITTEN: 36527]

— page 229 —
FE24-71/A16-3
Serial 0677
[STAMP: C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L]

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLENNY Comdr. Ac
Serial 06, dated 27 March,
1945. Report of Second
War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of Second War
Patrol - Comment on.

INDO-CHINA coast.

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

6. The Force Commander congratulates the Commanding
Officer, Officers, and Crew of the BLENNY upon this excellently con-
ducted and effectively prosecuted patrol during which the following
damage was inflicted upon the enemy:

S-U-N-K-
1 - AO (Large - EU) 10,000 Tons (Attack No. 3)
1 - AK (Large - EU) 7,500 Tons (Attack No. 4)
1 - AK (Unident) 4,000 Tons (Attack No. 4)
1 - AK (Unident) 4,000 Tons (Attack No. 4)
Total 25,500 Tons

D-A-M-A-G-E-D
1 - AO (Large - EU) 10,000 Tons (Attack No. 3)
1 - AO (Large - EU) 10,000 Tons (Attack No. 3)
Total 20,000 Tons

Grand Total 45,500 Tons
[SIGNATURE: Eliot H. Bryant]
ELIOT H. BRYANT,
Chief of Staff.
ORIGINAL COPY

- 2 -
UNITED STATES NAVY
14/pr
16 April 1945.

— page 230 —
UNITED STATES NAV
FE24-71/A16-3 14/pr
Serial 0677
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L 16 April 1945.

SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
USS BLENNY Conf. Ltr. A9
Serial 06, dated 27 March.
1945. Report of Second
War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of Second War
Patrol - Comment on.

— page 231 —
[HANDWRITTEN: 269]
[STAMP: Reg. No. [HANDWRITTEN: F-767]
R.S. No. [HANDWRITTEN: 5 04637]]

UNITED STATES FLEET
COMMANDER SEVENTH FLEET

A16-3(8)(F-3-c/whr)
Serial 02800

CONFIDENTIAL

THIRD ENDORSEMENT on:
USS BLENNY Conf. Ltr.,
serial 06, dated 27
March 1945.

From: Commander Seventh Fleet.
To: Commander in Chief, United States Fleet.
Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324) - Report of Second
War Patrol.

1. Forwarded.

2. The Commander Seventh Fleet sends a well
earned well done to the BLENNY for an outstanding patrol
during which severe damage was inflicted on the enemy.

[SIGNATURE: D. E. Barbey]
D. E. BARBEY

Copy to:
ComSubs, 7thFlt
ComSubRon 26
CO, USS BLENNY (SS324)

— page 232 —
1ST COPY

U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

SS324/L9
Serial 033

Care of Fleet Post Office
San Francisco, California
June 9, 1945.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED A-L]

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

Subject: U.S.S. BLENNY, Report of War Patrol Number THREE.

Enclosure: (A) Subject Report.
(B) Four track charts.
(C) Four Attack Diagrams.
(D) Radio Log.

1. Enclosure (A), covering the THIRD war patrol of this vessel
conducted in area off Tourane French Indo China, East of Hongkong in Formosa
Straits, and in Java Sea principally along South coast of Borneo during the
period 16 April 1945 to 9 June 1945; is forwarded herewith.

[SIGNATURE: W. H. HULL]
W. H. HULL.

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED ART. 0445, OPNAVINST 5510.1C]
BY [HANDWRITTEN: OP-09B9C] DATE [HANDWRITTEN: 5/24/82]

[STAMP: DECLASSIFIED]

— page 233 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

(A) PROLOGUE

BLENNY arrived Subic Bay, P.I. from completion of her second patrol
on 27 March 1945. Normal refit was conducted by ANTHEDON and SubDiv 262 relief
crew. On 8 April, crew and officers returned aboard. Conducted sound tests
9 April, deep dive and electronics tests 10 April, loaded 11 April, approach
training 12 and 13 April, loaded 14 and 15 April, readiness for sea 16 April,
1945. No signature taken and not dispensed or wiped. Transferred and received
the following officers:

To SubDiv 262 Relief Crew
Lieutenant David K. Callow, USNR (D-L)
Lieutenant Emory H. Edwards, USNR (D-L)

From SubDiv 262 Relief Crew
Ensign Pinckney M. Rohrback, USNR (D-L)
Ensign Thomas J. McLean, USNR (D-L)

Refit was excellent, particularly the elimination of groaning of thrust
bearings on sound heads at deep submergence, an unsatisfactory item since
commissioning, and silencing of superstructure to a degree never seen before
by the Commanding Officer in any submarine.

(B) NARRATIVE - All Times ITE.

The following officers and chief petty officers were attached to
BLENNY during her Third War Patrol:

| NAME          | RANK or RATE        | PATROLS INCLUD-ING THIS ONE | TOTAL |
||||-------|
| W.H. HAZZARD  | Comdr., USN         | S-37 - 4                    |       |
|               |                     | SAURY - 6                   | 13    |
|               |                     | BLENNY - 3                  |       |
| J.N. FELTON   | Lt.Cdr., USNR (D-E) | BLENNY - 3                  | 6     |
|               |                     |                             |       |
| N.A. BICKLEY  | Lieut. USNR (D-L)   | BLENNY - 2                  | 2     |
| J.K. IRVIN    | Lieut. USN          | BLENNY - 3                  | 3     |
|               |                     |                             |       |
| C.R. KASKE    | Lieut. USN          | TARPON - 10                 | 13    |
|               |                     | BLENNY - 3                  |       |
| D.R. STEVENS  | Lt(jg),USNR (ET)(L) | BLENNY - 3                  | 3     |
| W.A. SPIES    | Lt(jg),USNR (D-E)   | BLENNY - 3                  | 3     |
| P.M. ROHRBACK | Ens.USNR (D-L)      | BLENNY - 1                  | 1     |
| T.J. MCLEAN   | Ens, USNR (D-L)     | BLENNY - 1                  | 1     |

- 1 -

— page 234 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS 324)

NAME | RANK OR RATE | PATROLS INCLUD-ING THIS ONE | TOTAL
---|---|---|---
NASI, A.A. | CHOM, USN | BLENNY - 3 | 3
WALSH, E.F. | CSS, USN | DRUM - 2
CABRILLA - 2
BLENNY - 1 | 5
CRAYTON, T.L. | CHOM, USN | BLENNY - 3 | 3
SKILLENBERGER, C.T. | CRM | S-38 - 3
S-33 - 1
ROCK - 4
BLENNY - 2 | 10
YOUNG, B.P. | CPHM | BLENNY - 3 | 3
MCGUIRE, W.V. | CTM | PLATO - 4
BLENNY - 3 | 7

16 APRIL 1945

0800 | Underway from alongside U.S.S. NUTHATCH at Subic Bay, P.I. enroute
| area C-2 via Joint Zone escorted by DE 375 using 4 engine speed.
0903 | Submerged for trim and deep dive and test of new JP head.
1009 | Surfaced.
1225 | Released escort, set course for Cape Sahoi.
1328 | (Aircraft Contact No. 1) Sighted 2 B-25's at about 25 miles heading
| eastward. Unable to contact using all frequencies they should guard.
1447 | (Aircraft Contact No. 2) Sighted single B-25 to southward on easterly
| course at about 10 miles. Also unable to contact.
1500 | Submerged for section dive.
1524 | Battle surfaced and fired all guns.
1532 | Submerged.
1547 | Surfaced proceeding to area at 3 engine speed.
1920 | Submerged for 4' section dive.

17 APRIL 1945

0540 | (Ship Contact No. 1) Lat 14-42 N, Long 114-45 E. Exchanged calls
| and salutations by SJ with BLUEGILL eastbound.

- 2 -

— page 235 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

17 APRIL 1945 Cont'd.
0656 Made 32' section dive.
1028 (Aircraft Contact No. 3) Sighted westbound B-24 at about 20 miles.
      Unable to contact on VHF.
1040 Submerged for section dive.
1101 Battle surfaced and fired all guns.
1532 Made section dive.
1545 Battle surfaced and fired all guns.
1553 Made 6' dive.

18 APRIL 1945
0200 Entered area C-2 at Lat 15-09 N.
0548 SJ interference to southward. Assumed this to be BOARFISH and
      headed south to contact. Unable to establish SJ communications
      and was interrupted in closing by SJ contact on small vessels within
      8000 yards which subsequently turned out to be fishing sampans.
      Will have to delay contacting BOARFISH until tonight.
0649 Submerged 12 miles NE of Cape Sahoi having decided to keep to
      northward assuming BOARFISH intends to patrol near the Cape.
0900 Several sampans under sail in sight plus one small sampan under
      oars with five men and a boy and piled high with lobster pots.
      Closed to look this sampan over. Sampan sighted periscope and
      reversed course to close. Turned away at this point but sampan
      closed to about 20 feet. Chinamen all grinning, pointing, and
      occasionally looking over shoulder towards coast. Two of the older
      Chinamen wore black coats, the others were stark naked. Sampan
      finally shoved off, its crew looking discouraged. After considerable
      pondering of their movements decided there was a possibility these
      French Indo Chinese were trying to tell us something, possibly
      about allied aviators ashore so at
1201 With land 6 miles to westward surfaced close aboard sampan who
      by now had moored his lobster pots and had made sail. Threw over
      a carton of cigarettes and some matches in return for which there
      was much salaaming and bowing by the natives who had now donned
      mandarin coats. However they appeared to have nothing to tell us
      and sailed away as fast as they could looking as if they were not
      in the habit of having periscopes develop into surfaced submarines.
1202 (Aircraft Contact No. 4) Sighted unidentified 4 motored, twin
      tailed camouflaged land bomber to NE at about 10 miles flying
      south low over coast. Could see no star or bar nor could we see
- 3 -

— page 236 —
U.S.S. BLANNY (SS324)

18 APRIL 1945 Cont'd.

meat balls. Tails looked more pointed than a Liberator's and
fuselage looked more slender and seemed to extend too far forward
of wing for a Liberator. Tried unsuccessfully to communicate
by VHF and when bomber turned away and circled back to northward at

1217 Submerged to periscope depth because of plane's uncertain identity.
Plane was no longer seen. While surfaced had SD interference so
BO.RFISH must be surfaced to communicate with her. Plane was not
today. Patrolling northward towards Cape Batangan outside 20 fathom curve.

1246 B sound watch heard about 10 distinct regularly spaced sounds to
S.W. he thought were pings. Nothing in sight.

2029 Surfaced 11 miles south-east of Cape Batangan and stood S.L. to
contact BO.RFISH.

2238 Have no SJ interference from BO.RFISH so sent her our position
and requested instructions on Wolfpack frequency. She answered
that GURN.RD was patrolling south of 14-30 N, BO.RFISH patrolling
in vicinity of 15-15 N, told us to patrol at discretion and wel-
comed us to a "negative area". She said she would leave area
19th and GURN.RD 20th.

19 APRIL 1945

0003 SJ interference bearing 090(T). From this time to 0313 steering
various courses to close SJ interference. We seemed to have 2
sets at times.

0313 Gave up chase of illusive interference which would seemingly not
stay for long on one bearing and set course north toward Tourane
bay. Was unable to get report of challenges although inter-
ference was loud enough to communicate.

0330 BO.RFISH asked us if we had communication with GURN.RD. We had
heard BO.RFISH calling her for some time so opened up ourself un-
successfully and so informed BO.RFISH. At this time we were
about 40 miles east of Cape Sahoi.

0643 Made 14' trim dive and stood north at 2 engine speed to patrol
off Tourane as it seems to be the only possible point where traffic
might be moving to or from in this area. Anything that comes up
from south should be well reported by planes and boats to south
whereas there may be small stuff moving from Tourane to Hainan and
back which would be less likely to be reported in advance.

0740 When 30 miles east of Poulo Canton set course N.

1035 Closed a small fishing sampan and gave the Chinamen in it a few
packs of cigarettes and some matches. They offered us two large
fish in return no doubt expecting us to exact tribute. The sight of
- 4 -

— page 237 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

19 APRIL 1945 Cont'd.

a U.S. Flag appeared to be unrecognizable to them. Sighted
numerous fishing sampans for remainder of day. Practically all
of them either had lobster pots on board or were tending them.

1620 (Aircraft Contact No. 5) When 14 miles NE off Cape Tourane
sighted large four motored bomber with zero angle on bow range
about 8 miles. Submerged to periscope depth and identified him
as a Liberator from on view. Ducked to 150' and got off track
just in case he had forgotten his manners and at

1638 Surfaced and established communication with "Latches Unit" who
had now disappeared. Probably he didn't realize he had a sub when
he first started in. Patrolling NE of Tourane Bay.

1923 APR contact on 195 kcs from apparently a land based aircraft
warning set.

1934 Received CTF 71 serial 56 directing us to depart our area in
sufficient time to take life guard station in North Leg Joint
between 116 and 117 East by noon 23 April. Plans to leave in
morning.

2105 APR contact on 153 kcs from another land based aircraft warning
set. These contacts continued weakly till about midnight.

2210 Patrolling 130-310 line N and NE of Tourane 10 miles off the coast
just outside the 20 fathom curve in a half moon. Many small
fishing sampans in evidence.

20 APRIL 1945

0651 Submerged 14 miles due N of Tourane Bay patrolling 20 fathom
curve to point 8 miles NE of Bay's entrance.

1224 (Aircraft Contact No. 6) Sighted Liberator about 5 miles to
seaward headed SE paralleling the coast.

2047 Surfaced 6.5 miles off entrance to Tourane Bay patrolling across
its mouth in half moon.

21 APRIL 1945

0400 Closed Cape Chou May to 4,500 yards.

0554 Set course for lifeguard station where we are due at "noon" of
the 23rd.

0738 Made 8' trim dive.

1728 (Ship Contact No. 2) Lat 17-45 N, Long 109-59 E. Sighted shears
of U.S. Submarine by periscope. Manned SJ and exchanged calls with
LAGARTO. LAGARTO closed us and we communicated by VHF. He said

- 5 -

— page 238 —
[STAMP: U.S.S. PINTADO]

21 APRIL 1945 Cont'd.

                                he had no sightings but had a torpedo fired at him in position
                                Lat 16-51 N, Long 109-32 E. His torpedo detector had given the
                                warning, he dove and the torpedo was heard to pass overhead by men
                                in the after torpedo room. He confirmed our experience of having
                                search planes come in with a zero angle on the bow. His policy was
                                to dive when they closed to five miles. Departed with mutual well
                                wishings.

2100                            Have SJ contact on SE coast of Hainan at about 22 miles.

22 APRIL 1945

0720                            Made 12' trim dive.

1319                            (Aircraft Contact No. 7) SD contact on a plane at 6 miles. At 6
                                miles sighted a 2 engine plane dead astern with zero angle on bow.
                                Submerged for 35'. Plane best resembled a Francis.

23 APRIL 1945

0007                            PR contact on 80 Kcs.

0039                            PR contact on 100 Kcs.

0049                            PR contact on 163 Kcs.

0348                            BLACKFISH called us on Wolfpack frequency and said he had sighted
                                many junks, many planes without IFF, had been bombed by one of them,
                                destroyed 10 mines, and seen no shipping in the area.

0626                            Made 11' trim dive.

0817                            Lat 21-54 N, 116-16 E. Exploded a type 93 Mod 1 new looking mine
                                by 20 mm fire.

0830                            Entered life guard area at longitude 116 E and commenced patrolling
                                at 2 engine speed. Area is northern part of Leg Joint between 116
                                and 117 E.

1026                            Received message from BLACKFISH saying she had sunk another mine
                                and had sighted a probably Frisco at 21-40 N, 115-18 E at
                                0700 today.

1611                            Closed a large fishing junk. Nothing but Chinese in it.

1918                            Lat 21-51 N, 116-00 E. Exploded a new looking type 93 Mod 1 mine
                                with 20mm fire after trying to hit it with 48 rounds of 40mm.

2021                            Converted No. 4 FBT to HBT.

2136                            Made 14' dive to flush out P.E.T.

                                - 8 -

— page 239 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

24 APRIL 1945

0244 (Aircraft Contact No. 9) SD contact at 12 miles closing slowly
from astern. No IFF response on VHF. Expected this
to be a B-29 on schedule but was surprised when plane was seen to
be two motored at a range of about 2900 yards in the bright 7
tenths moon. Came right over with full rudder and plane passed astern
and overhead about 1000 yards. Identified as being a PBM-3 but
communication could never be established. This habit of coming
in with a zero angle on the bow certainly strains one's cooperative
credulity.

0406 (Aircraft Contact No. 9) SD contact at 12 miles. Size of pip
much larger than a PBM so believe this is B-29. Disappeared to
south at minimum range of 16000 yards. No IFF or VHF response.

0952 Investigated large Hylam fishing junk. Chinamen in it alert
and quick to put boat over and come alongside with fish. Ex-
changed a carton of cigarettes and some matches for a dozen fresh
fish. Feel we are being "taken" badly but on the other hand we
were initially merely making them a present to establish good
will. However, to keep the relieving submarine from losing face,
it might be well to pass on to our relief the current bargaining
price for staples. Hongkong Junk License #365 H. issued in April
1941 identified junk as being from Hauhoi Wan. Occupants seemed
very friendly and a few wore familiar looking skivvy shirts.

1043 Investigated another large junk which had 5 small boats out
fishing. Boats came racing happily towards us and again for a
carton of cigarettes we procured considerable fresh fish. This
junk had 5 Hongkong junk licenses from 1934 to 1941. License
#2891 H. was issued from Honkowan. Crew consisted
of about 25 Chinamen including several women and children. Clean,
prosperous looking, and fine ship shape condition of junk may have
reflected the feminine influence.

1150 Lat 21-45 N, 115-59 E. Exploded new looking type 93 Mod 1 mine by
B.R. All of these mines seem to explode with a high order detonation.

1700 Sank a belly tank.

1906 Sank a belly tank.

2332 (Aircraft Contact No. 10) SJ contact on plane at 18,500 yards.
Established communication by VHF with "Dissipate Baker", a call
meaningless to us as calls given us for search planes in this
area are considerably different. Vectored plane in on us and
sighted him at about 2500 yards. He looked like a PBM and re-
frained from giving us a small angle on bow and respectfully
stayed over a mile away. He reported a couple of unidentified
objects to west of us (which we knew to be junks) and shoved
off. He had 10cm radar.

- 7 -

— page 240 —
U.S.S. FLENNY (SS-280)

25 APRIL 1945

0347 (Aircraft Contact No. 11) SJ contact at 20,000 yards on Dissipate
     Baker". He reports no contacts in area.

0635 Made 8' trim dive.

1450 (Aircraft Contact No. 12) SD contact at 10 miles which opened to
     13 miles and disappeared. No IFF or VHF return.

26 APRIL 1945

0204 (Aircraft Contact No. 13) SJ contact at 16,000 yards. Identified
     as PBM who closed to about 2500 yards and then opened out and was
     lost at 21,000 yards. No IFF or VHF response.

0648 Made 78' trim and training dive.

1010 SJ contact in low visibility due to rain at 7,450 yards. Tracked
     at 3 knots and could lobe switch at 12,000 yards and still had contact
     at 15,000 yards and was identified as 100 foot
     three masted normal junk with iron pig sticks in tops of masts
     which may have been lightning rods. All rigging appeared to be
     hemp fiber. Crew was obviously Chinese and there were several
     women aboard, which were keeping out of sight as much as possible.
     Upon seeing the flag they relaxed and laughed as if they had fear-
     ed we were Jap. These "lightning rods" may have been the cause of
     some boats thinking they had encountered a false radar target or
     decoy. This was definitely neither.

1315 Intercepted message from unidentified plane to unknown which when
     deciphered read "Japanese convoy 30 ships 21-38 North 114-38 East
     steering northwest 0220 Z". This spot was 90 miles to the west
     of us in the northwestern part of CAVALLA's area. However from
     intercepted messages between BULLHEAD and CAVALLA it seemed possible
     that although CAVALLA had relieved BULLHEAD she still might not
     actually be in the area. Contact report did not sound logical but
     the least we could do was to investigate so headed for position
     at 4 engine speed sending message to CAVALLA when and where we
     were entering her area and why.

1822 Heard plane LL3D send to search plane whose sector covered CAVALLA
     area a repeat of the original message we had heard stating "Army
     Plane reports" etc.

1923 Received CTF 71 serial 91 addressed to BULLHEAD, FLENNY and CAVALLA
     reporting Zoomie sighting at same position and on course as report
     we intercepted but with DE escorting 30 cargo ships. Comment was
     that number and type were questionable.

1947 Heard operational air intelligence control send urgent ECM message
     to any and all U.S. Navy ships. Believe this to be a relay of the
     contact report. Since we have heard nothing but ECM messages on the
     circuit believe they think we hold the ECM.

                                   - 8 -

— page 241 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

26 APRIL 1945 Cont'd.

2007 Received message from CAVALLA reporting "No contacts, my position
uncertain, opening out from land". At this time we were 6 miles
SE of Peaked Rock (30 miles SW of Hongkong within five miles of
the NE corner of the Blind Bombing zone. We had SJ interference to the
SW which must have been attracting her attention. Between the two of us we had obviously covered
the positions the contact might be in without entering the
Blind Bombing zone. We set course for our area at 2 engine speed.
Investigated a 15,000 yard SJ contact. Contact was junk. Not
only does our SJ seem to be in top form but radar conditions
are excellent apparently regardless of rain,
sunshine, or temperature. We frequently get contacts on birds
at 2000 yards have experienced the numerous phantom pips common
to these areas.

2252 (Aircraft Contact No. 14) SJ contact at 21,500 on plane which
approached to about 3000 yards without showing a zero angle on
the bow, answered our IFF and shoved off when we fired a flare.
No VHF response.

27 APRIL 1945

0000 (Aircraft Contact No. 15) SJ contact at 20,000 yards on plane
which closed and was identified as a B-24, but which responded
to our flare with the wrong color and which answered our
identification signal with the wrong challenge. No IFF or VHF
response. He circled but finally shoved off rather dubiously.

0054 Transmitted BLENNY's first to CTF 71 reporting that traffic on
air operational intelligence circuit seemed to indicate they
thought we carried ECM, the strength of Subic transmissions,
and no contacts including his serial 91,

0455 Transmitted BLENNY's second to CTF 71 reporting that we had
incorrectly enciphered our first serial using set up for 25th.

0658 Made 33' trim dive in our area. Patrolling at 1 engine speed
due heavy seas from NE.

1401 Made 68' training dive.

1956 Received CTF 71 serial 95 ordering us to take life guard station
at 21-50 N, 118-00 E and stating that B-29's
would be passing over at night until that time. Since this
position is over 90 miles to the east and since the planes were
due to pass through it in about 2 hours, headed directly for the
closest point of the track.

2330 Planes should have passed so set course for new life guard station.

- 9 -

— page 242 —
U.S.S. GABILAN (SS24)

28 APRIL 1945

1000 Arrived on Life Guard Station 21-50 N, 118-00 E.
1015 Made 77' training dive.
1200 Patrolling in vicinity of station.
1224 Sank a belly tank.
1043 Submerged for training dive.
1227 Surfaced - No contact with B-29's last night.
2010 Weak fleeting SJ contact bearing 353(T) range 13,250 yards. Took
     sounding as check on position before chasing and got reading of
     13 fathoms which put us about 9 miles inside the Blind Bombing
     Zone and on the edge of the Formosa Banks. Assumed contact to be
     sampan or plane and set course to get back in area. Verified that
     we had been in Bombing zone from an evening fix. Error was due to
     an hours error in running up the DR (pit log being out) and due to
     current. Contact plotted in 7 fathoms of water on Formosa Banks.
2149 Received CTF serial 20 saying GABILAN would rendezvous with us on
     station to transfer official mail.
2335 (Aircraft Contact No. 16) SD contact at 5 miles which shortly was
     lost. No VHF, IFF or SJ contact.

30 APRIL 1945

0620 Made 9' trim dive.
1110 Made 14' training dive.
1535 Made 22' training dive.
1655 (Aircraft Contact No. 17) SD contact at 15 miles on plane believed
     to be Tess or Francis on easterly course.
2012 SJ interference to SW and Wolfpack message at same time from
     GABILAN saying she would be on our station at 2300. Headed for her.
2102 (Ship Contact No. 3) SJ contact at 7,000 yards on GABILAN.
2048 Received official and much appreciated personal mail from GABILAN
     via rubber boat. The mail was a wonderful boost to morale particul-
     arly in view of the lack of contacts.

1 MAY 1945

0603 Made 12' trim dive.

                                                                 - 10 -

— page 243 —
U.S.S. LENNY (SS324)

1 MAY 1945 Cont'd.
0635 (Aircraft Contact No. 18) Sight contact on southbound B-24 at
     18,000 yards. No response to VHF, IFF, or searchlight.
1035 Made 1 hour training dive.
1518 Submerged for drills.
1542 Battle Surfaced.
2128 Received CTF 71 serial 20 informing SEALLION to rendezvous with
     us at 21-30 N, 117-00 E the night of 7 May to transfer publications.

2 MAY 1945
0348 (Ship Contact No. 4) SJ contact at 23,000 yards bearing 273(T)
     which tracked at 15 knots on steady course of 055(T). Identified
     as properly marked hospital ship when rain squall cleared. Had
     red cross forward, aft, on sides of funnel, two horizontally on
     topside plus short row of green lights along sheer amidships.
0907 Submerged for trim dive.
1006 (Aircraft Contact No. 19) At 50' preparatory to surfacing SD
     contact at 12 miles closing. Closed to 4½ miles but not visible
     at periscope depth due to low clouds and poor visibility.
1017 Surfaced - all clear no contact on VHF.
1457 Made 8' training dive.
2316 Fleeting SJ contact at 14550 yards. Closed 10,000 yards in that
     direction but no contact. Must have been a plane.

3 MAY 1945
0618 Made 22' trim dive.
2237 SJ contact bearing 253(T) range 5000 yards. Disappeared within
     a few minutes. Stopped, stopped, and listened. Nothing heard.
     May have been phantom pip.
2329 (Aircraft Contact No. 20) SJ and SD contact on plane believed
     to be B-29 to northeast at 9 miles. Closed rapidly to 3½ miles
     then opened out rapidly. Proper IFF response. Going out there
     were two pips. Believe planes were flying high since SJ quickly
     lost contact.
2350 (Aircraft Contact No. 21) SD contact at 13 miles which opened
     out and disappeared at 15 miles.

4 MAY 1945
0648 Made 27' trim dive.

- 11 -

— page 244 —
U.S.S. BREAM (SS24)

4 MAY 1945 Cont'd.

1304        Lat 22-00 N, Long 118-18 E. Sank a new looking type 93 Mod 1 mine.

1322        Exercising at ship handling by J.O.s.

1516        Submerged for training dive.

1618        Surfaced on receiving word "fire in maneuvering room". Turned out
            to be all smoke from pulling arc between contactors, nonqualified
            controllerman being on for practice. Two contactors slightly burnt.

1641        Submerged and made training battle surface firing all guns.

1958        Received 5th Air Force request on lifeguard frequency that we be
            on new Life Guard Station 75 miles, 150(T) from High Lamock
            Island Light between hours of 1130 and 1330 I tomorrow. Position
            is about 30 miles NW of our present position.

2039        10 centimeter radar interference to westward followed by weak
            fleeting contact on same bearing at 9,950 yards and 30 seconds
            later at 10,350 yards. Assumed this to be a plane but as inter-
            ference looked more and more like SJ interference and persisted
            intermittently for several hours sometimes extremely weak and other
            times quite strong and on one occasion covering a 90° arc; revised
            our opinion and reasoned that it was probably made by SELLION on
            C.V.L.L. supposedly some 170 miles west of us. It faded in and
            out as if at extreme range. Probably the 10,000 yard fleeting
            contact was a phantom as we have been having phantoms regularly
            to 8,000 yards.

2220        Stopped, lying to on life guard station. Night very dark. In
            this condition it is possible to hear planes, screws, and not
            give ourself away by screw noises or wake. Furthermore it saves
            fuel which we are getting low on.

2159        Completed 1½ hour job converting .3 and .5 FBT to ballast tanks.

2300        (Aircraft Contact No. 22) SD contact at 23 miles lost at 25. No
            IFF or VHF return. Should be a B-29.

2348        (Aircraft Contact No. 23) Double SD contact at 20 miles which
            closed to 4 miles and gave IFF response. No VHF contact.

5 MAY 1945

0157        Made 16' dive to flush out fuel ballast tanks. Patrolling at 2
            engine speed on surfacing, moon having risen.

0530        More SJ interference to westward.

0610        Patrolling on new life guard station.

                                - 12 -

— page 245 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

5 MAY 1945 Cont'd.
0843 (Aircraft Contact No. 24) SD contact at 22 miles lost at 25.
0955 Made 13' training dive.
1017 (Aircraft Contact No. 25) SD contact at 36 miles. The radar
is really hot today.
1126 (Aircraft Contact No. 26) SD contact at 25 miles which shortly
disappeared.
1219 (Aircraft Contact No. 27) SD contact at 12 miles. No IFF
response.
1305 (Aircraft Contact No. 28) SD contact at 22 miles which faded
out.
1318 (Aircraft Contact No. 29) SD contact at 26 miles with IFF
response.
1353 Commenced patrolling in vicinity of night life guard station.
1536 Received message from 5th Air Force operational control station
saying no planes down today.

6 MAY 1945
0640 Made 15' trim dive.
0736 (Aircraft Contact No. 30) SD contact at 12 miles. Plane seemed
to be skirting us at same range until lost. No IFF or VHF
response.
0952 (Aircraft Contact No. 31) Fleeting SD contact at about 35 miles.
1235 (Aircraft Contact No. 32) SD contact at 12 miles with IFF but
no VHF response.
1400 Lieutenant N.A. Bickley, USNR conducted Divine Services.
1848 Lat 21-50 N, Long 118-02 E. Exploded new looking type 93 Mod 1
mine with 30 cal. machine gun.

7 MAY 1945
0030 Received CTF 71 serial 58 informing CHARR and BLENNY that
Liberator strike scheduled for today on Pescadores had been
cancelled in case we had not received the word from AOIC. We
had neither received the word that it had been cancelled or that
it had ever been scheduled despite the fact we have been guarding
the 4385 Kc series (8770Kc) since interference and static is so

- 13 -

— page 246 —
U.S.S. ELRENNY (SS324)

7 MAY 1945 Cont'd.

heavy on 4385 Kc) at all times so that we can transmit
to other stations.

0600 Set course for original area (northern part of Leg Joint bet-
     ween 116 and 117° E Long) as the 6th was the last day we
     had been told to guard this station by CTF 71 serial 95 and
     we had been told to rendezvous with SEALION tonight at 21-30 N,
     117-00 E.

0840 Received Wolfpack message from SEALION asking us for rendezvous
     time.

0905 Told SEALION to rendezvous at 1800 ITEM.

1053 (Aircraft Contact No. 33) SJ contact at 9,550 yards which
     closed to 4 miles but was not sighted due low visibility. No
     IFF or VHF response.

1103 Made 15' trim dive.

1627 Received CTF 71 serial 59 stating that last flight of B-29's
     from China to Tinian had been delayed last night and would be
     over tonight. Told to take old life guard station for last
     time, tonight - set course eastward at 2 engine speed for point.

2150 SEALION says she will not be at rendezvous until 0700 I tomorrow
     on account of heavy seas.

2253 (Aircraft Contact No. 34) SD contact at 26 miles. No IFF or
     VHF response.

8 MAY 1945

0200 Arrived on life guard station but as planes should be passed
     by now set course to return to rendezvous point.

0620 (Ship Contact No. 5) Exchanged calls with SEALION by SJ.

0745 Received SAF plan Charlie from SEALION and exchanged information.

0754 Departed rendezvous and commenced patrolling area.

1056 Made 29' trim dive.

1400 Lat 22-05 N, Long 116-06 E. Saw new looking type 93 Mod 1
     mine with 30 cal M.G. Noted with interest that bullet broke
     horn off without exploding mine.

1419 Exercise at battle stations gun action firing all guns at a
     bamboo pole.

- 14 -

— page 247 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

8 MAY 1945 Cont'd.

1843 (Aircraft Contact No. 35) Sun lookout sighted with his naked eye
     2 engine single tailed transport or bomber near sun and astern
     on bow which opened out rapidly on a
     with larger than 90° angle, presumably Jap because of his course,
     SWerly course. This plane had obviously passed fairly
     high and within a few miles and we had not sighted him until
     he had passed over. He must have seen
     us and therefore must have been a transport or he would have
     attempted a bombing or strafing run. We had not been using the
     SD because of the few clouds and clear visibility which brought
     mountains on the China coast clearly into view at 60 miles.
     Commenced keying SD.

9 MAY 1945

0045 Received CTF 71 serial NAN stating that we were to start South
     for Java Sea after being relieved by BLUEGILL about 14th.

1039 (Aircraft Contact No. 36) SD contacts from 50 miles to 30
     miles with proper IFF response.

1129 Sighted 18 B-24's which passed from 6 to 15 miles on NWerly
     course, apparently the Hongkong air strikers.

1323 (Aircraft Contact No. 37) SD contact at 17 miles, no IFF
     response but responses from something at 40 and 50 miles. Had
     VHF response to our call but could not get his call before
     range opened.

1750 Transmitted BLENNY's This word to CTF 71 stating it was necessary for
     us to fuel prior heading south, that we now had SAF plan Charlie
     (received from SEALION), and the state of Subic test transmissions.

10 MAY 1945

0803 Made 68' trim and training dive.

1015 (Aircraft Contact No. 38) SD contact at 15 miles, no IFF or
     VHF response. Plane closed to 5.5 miles and since low clouds
     prevented visual sighting and identification, at

1025 Submerged.

1034 Surfaced all clear.

1140 (Aircraft Contact No. 39) Many SD contacts from 60 miles to 5
     miles over a period of several hours, last contact being had at
     1520. No planes were sighted because of low hanging overcast
     and intermittent rain but we heard much converstation on VHF
     as Liberators tried to reform for strike on Hongkong. They had

- 15 -

— page 248 —
[STAMP: U.S.S. ELI (382)]

10 MAY 1945 Cont'd.

apparently broken formation when they ran into the poor visibility
and lost sight of one another. We made VHF contact with one of them
who said they had their hands full trying to talk to each other. They
finally disappeared from radar and some time later we had a single con-
tact on a B-24 that had lost his formation and turned back. He
asked us if we had his formation in sight. We said, "No", but
could give him his position. This he said he did not need. Finally,
formation began returning and when we asked if we could be of assistance
they replied "Not at present".

1717 (Aircraft Contact No. 40) SD contact at 13 miles which gave no
IFF or VHF response. Closed slowly to 5 miles where SJ picked it
up and enable us to make sight contact as it came through clouds
with a 70° starboard OB/ a 2 engine single tail Jap transport.

1722 Submerged to periscope depth.

1724 Plane seen to be turn towards our diving slick presenting 30°
starboard angle on bow. Went to 150'.

1750 Surfaced, all clear, plane apparently was enroute Formosa from
Hainan.

11 MAY 1945

0653 Made 22' trim dive.

1018 (Aircraft Contact No. 41) SD contacts at 20 miles which opened
to 30 and was lost.

1348 (Aircraft Contact No. 42) SD contact at 35 miles, unidentified,
and not contacted.

1544 Made 39' training dive.

12 MAY 1945

0851 Made 63' trim and training dive.

0855 (Aircraft Contact No. 43) SD contact at 25 miles, not identified
and not contacted; lost 6 minutes later.

1120 (Aircraft Contact No. 44) SD contact at 16 miles which closed
to 12, opened out and was lost. Established VHF communication
with "Sleepless 18" who said we were the first one he had been
able to establish contact with. He asked us to give him a range
and bearing. By this time we had lost him but told him range
had been 12 miles 5 minutes ago, bearing unknown. He then asked
us what altitude we were at. Told him we were a submarine which

- 16 -

— page 249 —
U.S.S. BLENNY (SS324)

12 MAY 1945 Cont'd.

was beside the point. Should have said "Angle Zero". He
then asked for our position relative to reference point.
Not knowing what reference point he would recognize, was
about to give him Lat and Long when we lost contact.

1158 Received message from same plane on Wolfpack frequency asking
us for our position.

1205 Transmitted our position to plane and received a Roger.

1339 Made 64' training dive.

1502 (Aircraft Contact No. 45) SD contact on 2 planes at 35 miles
which closed to 20 miles and were lost. No IFF or VHF contact.

2208 Weak SJ interference to SW. Must be SEALION.

13 MAY 1945

0240 Weak APR contact on 118-120 Mcs, probably SEALION's SD.

0843 Made 22' trim dive.

1015 Investigating fleet of some 47 fishing junks, all under sail
with nets out. Apparently they had just come out from land in
the wake of the preceding rough and stormy weather.

1420 (Aircraft Contact No. 46) SD contact at 15 miles on 2 planes
which closed to 9 miles and were sighted and identified as
Nells", bearing 165(T) elevation 4° with a 90° port angle on
Bow. They opened out on a NEerly course for Formosa and
disappeared.

1759 Lat 20-12 N, Long 116-47 E. Sank well barnacled Type 93 Mod 1
mine.

2313 Commenced calling BLUEGILL as wish to determine her ETA in
area. If she arrives tomorrow we can send our ETA at Subic
point DUNK prior 1000 I tomorrow (24 hours in advance of
passing through point) thus speeding our time enroute Subic
by one day. No answer from BLUEGILL.

14 MAY 1945

0000 Called BLUEGILL again, no answer.

0300 Called BLUEGILL, no answer.

0600 Called BLUEGILL, no answer.

- 17 -

— page 250 —
U.S.S. BLUNNY (SS324)

14 MAY 1945 Cont'd.

0615 Heard Com Advanced Group Fair Wing calling BLUEGILL for us.

0636 Com Advanced Group Fair Wing told us BLUEGILL said "Wait".
apparently BLUEGILL is too far away to hear us and vice versa.

0838 SELLION at 0611 had asked us if we had received a certain message
from Air Operational Intelligence Command on 4385 Kcs. We had not
because of interference at time it was transmitted so inasmuch as
we had been befouling the air with call ups for sometime anyway,
asked 8 Kc for message. She transmitted it and we relayed it to
SELLION. Message was for CLRR and relative to an impending air
strike.

0937 (Aircraft Contact No. 7) SD contact at 15 miles on plane which
gave IFF and was contacted by VHF. "Sleepless 18" hove in sight
and was identified as a PB4Y-2 returning from patrol southbound.

1105 Lat 22-09 N, Long 116-46 E. Sank new looking Type 93 Mod 1 mine.

1112 Made 26' trim and training dive.

1428 Medium strength SD interference.

1625 Sighted junk sail to northward and investigated. Normal 3 sail
fishing junk with which we traded cigarettes for fish.

1642 Submerged for 15' training dive.

1731 Lat 22-17 N, Long 116-15 E. Exploded new looking type 93 Mod 1
mine by 40 mm, expending 4 rounds.

15 MAY 1945

0230 (Ship Contact No. 6) Exchanged calls with BLUEGILL to SW by SJ
and established VHF communications via which we informed BLUE-
GILL of what little had been going on in our area. BLUEGILL
wanted to know if we had patrolled around Pratas Island. We
replied no. BLUEGILL said she was satisfied with the information.
Set course for point DUNK.

0614 Having transmitted ETA message and since we were within 30 miles
of Pratas Island with an abundance of time to get to DUNK, set
course for Pratas to conduct a bombardment. Considered it both
feasible and practical, and promising from the standpoint of
boosting morale.

0743 Made 11' trim dive.

0755 Sighted Pratas Island radio towers to SE.

- 18 -