THE END OF THE NEW GUINEA CAMPAIGN

APRIL 1944

With the 3 big invasions successfully completed, there were the usual troop reinforcements, bringing in heavy equipment and supplies. This was a never ending process. We, along with other cans, got very little rest-always on the go from one place to another. Mostly escorting the amphib ships, and various types of supply ships, as the Army and Navy moved their advance bases into Seeadler and Hollandia. This type of escorting along the New Guinea coast was pretty boring at times, but a most essential job. The weather was usually calm, always hot and many time rainy. Like in all tropical waters, we saw many flying fish, porpoise and sharks. Also at times, we saw some spectacular waterspouts, which are tornadoes at sea. They never came close to our ships. Watch standers had to keep their rain gear handy.

In Buna, on the 26th, we refueled from a tanker, took on stores and did some clean up on the ship. We hardly got our breath, when we got underway at 2345 for Cape Cretin. When we arrived, we patrolled outside while the convoy was making up. The convoy had 13 cargo ships, 25 LST's, 10 PT boats plus numerous smaller craft, including an Army headquarters yacht.. The escorts were: NICHOLAS (CDS 21), escort commander-(Capt Chandler),RADFORD (DD 446), LA VALLETTE, HOPEWELL (DD 681), STEMBEL (DD 644), LONG BEACH, GLENDALE, they were going to Hollandia.(White Beach) Our section: WILKES (CDD 26), escort commander, WELLES, STOCKTON, GILLESPIE, CORONADO, SAN PEDRO, with 8 LST's, 2 M/V, 10 PT boats were headed for Aitape, (Blue Beach). We all arrived safely. 27th - The Commodore left the ship for a conference on the TULSA (PG 22). 29th- The Commodore detached the STOCKTON and 8 PT's to proceed to Aitape, with the CO of the STOCKTON to arrange for beaching the LST's after dark. (This was a very tricky maneuver). 2030, LST's started to beach. 2130, We and the 2 M/V anchor and the other cans screened to seaward. By 1500 on the 30th, most ships were ready to return to Cape Cretin, so we escorted them back. We left with 8 LST's at 2030. The GILLESPIE and STOCKTON were left behind as a covering unit.

MAY 1944

1st- we were now CDD-4 (WILKES, NICHOLSON, SWANSON, GRAYSON). We were still escorting from Aitape to Cape Cretin. 0500, we passed at large convoy headed to Hollandia. 2nd-passed another large convoy escorted by CDS 19 in STEVENSON (Echelon R-8)-North bound.

On the 3rd, we arrived at 0530 and CDD 4, left the ship for a conference with the LCCO. We refueled from the ALCIBIADES in Dreger Harbor. Then underway again at 1600 to patrol with the WELLES, between Langemah and Cretin, waiting for LST's to come out. We and the WELLES left at 1800, escorting another convoy of 7 LST's from Cape Cretin to Cape Gloucester. These ships had troops to relieve the soldiers we took there in late Feb. 4th -We arrived 0930 at Borgen Bay. 5th -We then took the same LST's back to Cape Cretin. 1900, we got an urgent dispatch to leave, alone, for Cape Cretin and turned the convoy over to the WELLES. On the 6th -0600, we arrived Cretin and laid to off Megin Is. Later the Commodore left the ship for a conference on the TULSA. 0840, we re-fueled from the ALCIBIDES in Dreger Harbor. We left the same day, picking up another convoy of 4 Liberty ships: (SS URIAN M. ROSE, SAMUEL BRANNON, DUNHAM WRIGHT, WILLIAM ELLERY CHANNING) with WELLES, ALLEN, MULLANY, escorting them to Hollandia. On the 7th, en route, a soldier on one of the Liberty ships, CHANNING, was shot in the stomach. We took a doctor from the ROSE and hi-lined him to the CHANNING. The doctor reported the man needed immediate surgery, so we hi-lined him and the doctor back to our ship. Both doctors operated on the man, on our wardroom table. Several of our officers and our pharmacist mates assisted in the operation. 1700, after surgery was completed, we hi-lined the doctor back to the ROSE. Dr Stollman cared for the wounded man, but he became delirious, calling for his "MOMMA". He died the next day, a very sad episode. We had no proper way to take care of the body, so we wrapped the body in canvas and lashed it under the forward torpedo tubes. Later that day, we took the CO from the MULLANY and later transferred him to the SWANSON, all by hi-line. On the 9th- we arrived in Humboldt Bay, dropped off the convoy and the soldier's body. The Commodore went ashore for a conference. We got 3 Army officers and an enlisted man for Cretin and left with the WELLES, headed back to Buna. On the way, the WELLES hit a log and damaged her screws. We got emergency orders to go to Aitape, but they were canceled, before we got there. We stopped in Cretin and dropped off Army men, rejoined WELLES. Then back in Buna on the 11th, where we re-fueled, took on stores, etc. We got a couple days of rest, until early on the 14th.

WAKDE ISLAND

0500- On the l4th, we were underway with the MORRIS (DD 417), the flagship of Destroyer Squadron 2 (SquadDog 2). He was our new boss, as the Commodore was now CDD 4. We went to Hollandia, arriving on the l5th. On the 16th (D-1) for the invasion of WAKDE IS, we went to Tanahmerah Bay to pick of a convoy: LST 181(F), 170, 206, 245, 456, 457, 458, 466, plus the SONOMA (ATO 12), escorted by: WILKES, NICHOLSON, ROE, STEVENSON, STOCKTON, GILLESPIE, RUSSELL (DD 414).

We were all headed for the NEXT INVASION--- WAKDE ISLAND. It was a small island, about a mile and a half long, a couple of miles from the New Guinea coast, about 140 miles NW of Hollandia. It's importance-an air field. We wanted it to keep Japs from continuing to use it and we needed it for our up coming invasion of the Philippines. "Z" Day was May l7, "H" hour -- 0715. We were CTU 77.2.74. We all arrived safely and on time. About 20,000 soldiers and Navy were involved .Before the landings, Army A-20 and P-40 bombed and strafed the beaches. By 0830, the planes were finished and 2 minutes later, we and the ROE commenced bombardment of assigned targets. We had to cease fire as the landing waves were approaching the beach. 0905, landings were mostly unopposed, on the initial beaches. There were some machine gun fire from the beach. 4 enemy machine gun bullets struck us. 2 hit #2 stack, one hit a metal ladder on the after deck house, and the 4th hit near the 24" searchlight. Several of our people had very close calls. The talker on the #2 torpedo mount had his shoe laces cut, the talker on the #1 torpedo mount had his head set grazed, one passed through the aft -port 20MM gun crew. The port sky lookout had the last one hit under his seat. A fragment stuck in the dungaree shirt sleeve of the port D.C talker. We were mighty lucky no one got hurt. We called for an air strike but the planes couldn't silence it. By 0930, a tank that had landing in the first wave, silenced the machine gun nest. 0930, TF 74, and then at 12l0, TF 75 also left. 1015, Landing craft from the early waves stopped by the ROE and REID with casualties. Dr. Stollman went to the REID to assist their MD in treating the wounded soldiers.1300, more landings on Insoemanai Is. All day our planes bombed and strafed. 2000, the LST's and 3 DD's leave.

On the 18th, CDD 4 was the screen commander and REID was CTG 77.2. At the beaches we had W-, ROE, GRAYSON(F/D), NICK, plus 3 LST, 2 SC and many small craft. 19th-We conducted extensive shore fire in support of our troops on the beach. It was very effective. We were very close to the beach and fired 5", 40/20MM. We were close enough so we could see exactly what was going on. Like in the Admiralties, there were coconut plantations on the island. When our 5" and 40MM shells hit a tree, it was knocked down. After our shore firing, the plantations looked like a forest of stumps. Our troops had considerable number of wounded. Dr. Stollman and 2 pharmacist mates went ashore to help the Army medics. Later we took on 15 "walking" wounded men and treated them, and later took them back to Hollandia. By the end of the day, we had fired 232 rounds of 5", 704 rounds of 40MM, 1440 rounds of 20MM -- a very busy day. 1730, we left with LST 18, 67, 465, 206, for Humboldt.

May 20th - 0100, we wiped the starboard spring bearing and had to stop the starboard engine. We had to run on the port engine and our speed was limited to 20 kts. We arrived Humboldt and dropped off the convoy. We got the wounded men to the Army hospital, via an LCT. Then we took on fuel, ammo, and supplies. We anchored near Hamadi Is. There were 2 air raids during the night. Our engineers got a chance to work on the bearing and had it fixed by noon on the 21st. 1730, we got underway, with several Army photographers, who we later transfer to the NICHOLSON. Then we took our assigned ASW and radar picket duties outside the harbor and patrolled all night. 22nd- After we finish our duties, we returned to Hollandia to pick up more stores, and fuel. 1730, back out as picket - patrolling as before. 23rd - More picket duty, but later that day,, went with a convoy, escorted also by the ROE and NICHOLSON, headed to Aitape.

About this time, we stopped going back to Buna (our second home), as the Army and Navy had set up a large base in Hollandia (Humboldt) and we were moving up the New Guinea coast-one invasion after the other. On one of our short stays in Hollandia, the CO found a small island, with a native grass hut on it. He and the officers founded our own "officer's club" and ordered up some whiskey from Australia. However no whiskey was available, but we did get some Empire Gin and Meyers Rum. Until we stopped going to Hollandia, we used that "club" for a little R&R. However the CO neglected to provide a similar place for the Chiefs and enlisted men.

BIAK

24th-Back to Hollandia, to prepare for the NEXT LANDINGS on BIAK, in the Shouten Group, Dutch New Guinea. To go back in history a bit. One of the reasons for the landing at Hollandia, was the need/desire for a heavy bomber air field, as well the fine sheltered harbor. However the Army engineers found that the soil was not suitable to hold the heavy bombers. So another site was needed. The High Command decided on BIAK, which was a rocky island about 300 miles NW of Hollandia, measuring about 45 by 20 miles, with no natural harbor. It was much closer to the Philippines. Later in the day, with the ROE and NICHOLSON, we left with a convoy (LST 18,67, 206) for Aitape. After delivering the convoy, the 3 cans went back to Hollandia.

"Z" Day was the 27th. CDD 4 (the Commodore) was CTG 77.7. CTF 77 (Admiral Fechtler) was in the SAMPSON. On the 25th we completed work on our engine. 1700, went out on picket duty. 2100, CTF 74 (Rear Admiral Crutchley, RM in the HMAS AUSTRALIA and 75 in the PHOENIX, left to go to the West to screen the invasion beach head. 26th- (Z-1) 1730, we, SWANSON (F/D), NICK, WHITEHURST(DE-634), LOVELACE (DE-198)(ComCortDiv 37), escorting LST 22,26,339 (each LST towed an LCM), left for the invasion of BIAK IS, SHOUTEN GROUP. We were echelon H-2. On our way we passed 2 convoys headed back to Humboldt, escorted by the HOBBY (CDD 38), WELLES and GILLESPIE. 2000, 12 enemy planes attack, 4 are shot down. One crashed into SC 699, but it was not badly damaged.

(Z+1)-28th- 0400, we arrived at Green Beach, which was on the SE coast of Biak. 0630, the LST's started to beach and unload. We gave ASW and AA screening. 0657, an enemy plane overhead, but was driven off. 0845, LCI 34 and the WHITEHURST (DE 634) were fired on, by shore batteries, near Mokmer air field. The REID and STOCKTON engaged the battery. The STOCKTON was hit by a 4.7" shell, and sustained only minor casualties. The enemy guns were knocked out. Ships of our unit fired various shore fire mission. During this time, we came under shore fire, from the vicinity of Mokmer air field- several near misses- no problem. The first round was short, the next was long (over), and the next should have been on us. However, the CO quickly speeded up and they missed. A total of 5 rounds fell around us. We fired on the shore battery. Our fire appeared to have knocked out the enemy guns. Navy planes were supporting us. 2 were shot down by enemy fire. Japs planes around as well-2 shot down. They would come in under our radar coverage, drop their bombs, strafe and then take off. An A-20 (ours) was shot down by friendly fire, from the Army people on the beach. It was trying to drop mail to the troops. Our B-25's had 75MM guns in their nose and they would come in very low, strafe and fire the cannon at the enemy. They were very effective. 1200, the SWANSON left the area. 1500, we proceeded with the REID and STOCKTON, South of Borokoe and Sorido. 1730, The NICHOLSON and we relieved the STOCKTON and REID as shore fire ships. 1800, the STOCKTON CDS 19), REID, GRAYSON left with the LST's we brought up. 2000, the Army requested harassing for the night, 20 rounds per hour. We fired, as requested all night. The enemy was well dug in their caves and foxholes in the cliffs. The NICK and we were patrolling east of Owi Is.

29th- There were lots of heavy enemy resistance by Jap Marines, like in the Admiralties.. 0100, we were relieved by NICHOLSON as shore fire ship. During the night, we had fired 10l rounds 5". About 0500, 2 enemy planes came over (low) from Biak. We maneuvered to avoid a torpedo attack and fired on the planes. One crashed and burned on the beach. 0644, we were back as shore fire ship, and had several near misses from the Jap shore batteries. We fired counter-battery and silenced the guns. Army planes: A-20 and B-24 bombed and strafed. We fired on troop and gun emplacements. We fired 65-5". The Army reported excellent results. When we were firing, we were in voice radio contact with Army spotters on the Beach. They called the shots, we delivered the goods. At 0815, 4 enemy fighters came over and the LST plus beach fire, shot 2 down. 0825, another raid- we fired 31-5" and 29-40MM. SC 734 came alongside for water and provisions. 1020, we took a small armada of small craft (LCT, LCM, LCVP,DWKS, Alligators, Buffalo to the beach at Mokmer Village, for a landing there.. 1120-1400, we fired on various shore targets. At night we patrolled the area, West of Owi Is. During the day, the Jap resistance was very heavy and they drove our troops back. In the late afternoon Army headquarters informed us, their front lines had been withdrawn about 2 miles eastward. They requested us to fire in the vacated area during the night. The NICK got that job.

30th- 0100, we were patrolling between Owi and Biak. The Army requested shore fire until 0600. Then the Army requested us to give the area "an extra going over". We fired 5", 40/20 MM -much close in firing, until 0730. We fired 269 rounds 5", plus 10 white phosphorous, 1040-40MM, 1320-20MM. Then the SWANSON, BALCH (DD 363), ROE arrived with 8 LST's (Echelon H-3) and they assumed our shore fire duties. During our firing, 20 MM gun #3, exploded and 2 of the gun crew (Powers and Hammer) were injured. Fortunately they were not seriously hurt. They had been firing and had used 8 magazines, without stopping to change barrels. Since the 20MM gun had no cooling system, the gun barrel over heated. On the 9th magazine, a round failed to fire. The gun crew took the magazine off and tried to re-cock the gun. But the round "cooked" off and exploded. The gun was ruined, a small price to pay. 1900, we, NICK, SWANSON, WARRINGTON formed up a convoy of LST's (67, 170, 171, 395, 454, 457, 469(flag), 474) to return to Humboldt Bay. There was a air raid and the Commodore sent the SWANSON back to the beach as F/D. We had an uneventful trip and arrived the next day. As in the Admiralties, the Army grossly underestimated enemy strength at 2000 soldiers, but there were about 12,000 marines (tough fighters). Enemy resistance was heavy. Our 30,000 troops had their hands full. The Japs were defeated, with few prisoners taken.

SHIPS INVOLVED IN THE BIAK OPERATION-TF 77-RADM William E. Fechteler

DD's-- AMMEN, HMAS ARUNTA, BEALE, BACHE, BALCH, BUSH, DALEY, FLETCHER, GRAYSON, GILLESPIE, HOBBY, HUGHES, HUTCHINS, JENKINS, KALK, LAVALLETTE, LOVELACE, MUSTIN, MULLANY, NICHOLSON, RUSSELL, RADFORD, ROE, ABNER READ, REID, STEVENSON, SWANSON, STOCKTON, SAMPSON (F), TRATHEN, VAN BUREN (PF), HMAS WARRAMUNGA, WARRINGTON, WHITEHURST (DE), WELLES, WILKES.

CRUISERS--Heavy--HMAS AUSTRALIA, Light--BOISE, NASHVILLE, PHOENIX.

AMPHIBIOUS-- 32 LCI's, 14 LST's.

DESTROYER TRANSPORTS--HERBERT, CROSBY, KILTY, SCHLEY, WARD.

SPECIAL SERVICES--SC # 699,703, 734, 736, 742, 981: LCI (Rocket) # 31, 34, 73. Tug-SONOMA

JUNE 1944

lst--We arrived Humboldt and did our usual-took on fuel from the VICTORIA, ammo and stores from the GOLD STAR (AG 12). 3rd- We took another convoy (Echelon H-6) to Biak, with 9 LST's, 3 LCI, 4 LCT and escorts-WILKES, NICK, SWANSON, WARRINGTON, BALCH, VAN BUREN (PF 42). 4-5th-4 US and Aussie cruisers and 11 cans passed our convoy to intercept a Jap TF reported to be 3 heavy cruisers, 1 CV, 9 DD's west of Biak. A Jap plane strafed the REID, which was nearby. They had l man killed, 5 wounded and their radars were disabled. Later, when we all arrived back in Humboldt, the Commodore went over to the REID to confer with their CO and to access the damage. 5th- We had radar contact with TF 74 and 75 to the West. 0630, we arrived Green Beach and the LST's beached. While waiting for the LST to finish unloading, we went on AA and ASW screen between Owi and Auki Islands. The Army reported good progress, but the Japs still controlled the air strips. While at Biak, the Jap planes bombed the beach for the next few days. 1800, we started back to Humboldt with 9 LST, 3 LCI, 4 LCT, the same escorts, plus the RUSSELL. The Commodore was CTU. This left no combat ships at the beach head.

With all our moving around and the invasions, our incoming mail was erratic and almost none was received. The crew liked to hear from home. 6-7th-escorting to Humboldt and we all arrived on the 7th., refueled and took on ammo. 7th-ALLIED LANDINGS IN NORMANDY. We got the news over the press news. 8th-the enemy tried to reinforce Biak, but Admiral Crutchley's cruiser force turned them back. 9th-They tried again with 5 destroyers, but our cans intercepted them. We (not us) chased them but couldn't catch them. The Commodore temporarily shifted his flag to the ROE. 1030, we and MUSTIN (DD-413) escorted the NASHVILLE to Seeadler Harbor. It had been torpedoed at Biak and eventually went back to the US for repairs. The DOBBIN (destroyer tender) had been moved from Buna to Seeadler. There had been a terrific change on Manus since our invasion 3 months ago. The shore was lighted up at night, piers built, good roads, etc. - a real big base. The harbor was full of ships of all types-great activity. 0900-10th, we refueled from the LEOPARD and anchored near the DOBBIN for 1 day's upkeep. 12th- Back to Humboldt by ourselves. The KALK had just been hit by a bomb-much damage-26 killed , 31 wounded. It was there when we arrived, at 0700 on the 13th. We anchored. 1800, out to picket duty, relieved the HERBERT (APD-22). 14th-Commodore returned to the WILKES. 1200, HUGHES relieved us a picket. 1700, refueled from BISHOPDALE.

l6th- We got underway for Tanaherah Bay, arriving 1300. 1530, underway with a convoy -LST 459 (F), 245, 339, 467, 469,206, 204, 474, 1 cargo ship, (CHARLES RUSSELL), escorted by FLETCHER (CDD-42 -OTC), RADFORD, LA VALLETTE, GRAYSON (F/D), SAN PEDRO. This was reinforcements-Echelon H-10-all head to Biak. We were the rear guard A/S. 17th- JENKINS escorting LST 181, 486 from Wakde Is joined up. 18th- Commodore (OTC), GRAYSON, SAN PEDRO with LST466, 463 plus CHARLES RUSSELL left for Woendi Lagoon, the remaining ships went on to Biak. 0700, entered the lagoon. All day we patrol west of Owi and south of Mokmer-no problems. 1830, picked up another convoy-empty- back to Humboldt We arrived on the 20th-refueled, took on supplies, and were able to get in a good general cleaning before our next trip. 23rd- 1800, we got underway but were recalled. 1800-24th- another try-under way with SS JAMES BUCHANAN, SS JOHN ROACH, escorted by WILKES, GRAYSON, NEUENDORF (DE-200), YMS 51 for Biak. 26th- arrived 0700, Woendi lagoon, anchored. 0900, GRAYSON left to go to Biak to pick up USNAT CARIB QUEEN. We had a passenger, Col. S. D. Sturges for Hollandia.

27th -0130, we got an emergency dispatch ordering us, ROE, NICHOLSON, GRAYSON to go to Aitape to fire shore bombardment. The enemy was attacking our troops in that area. The by-passed Japs from the Wewak area apparently had made their way westward and were trying to meet up with their remaining forces in western New Guinea. At one time they had an estimated 50,000 soldiers in the Wewak area. 0800, we all arrived at Aitape. 0900, the Commodore left the ship for a conference with the Commanding General. 1200, we took on Col. M. M. McCleary, , Lt-Col Turnage, Capt L. H. Holloway and 2 enlisted men to go with us to the shore bombardment. 29th- 0000, all ships got underway. 0225, we all fired in the vicinity of Diriniour River from Niumen Creek to Harech River and to about 3000 yards inland. We had a very successful shore fire mission. We stopped the enemy attacks. We fired 400 rounds 5". We dropped the Army people off at Aitape. Then we all went to Hollandia, where we refueled from and got ammo from the PYRO (AE 1). 1700, anchored and took on stores. 30th- We left with our convoy at 1630, (CTU 77.5.2) in WILKES, with NICK, ROE, GILLESPIE (F/D), on our way to Toem..

On all these slow convoys, we used a "Bent Line" screen for the cans, with the LST's, merchant ships, etc. in 2 or 3 columns behind us. We would all zigzag in accordance with one of the standard plans. The "bent line" is an ASW formation, designed to sweep the water ahead of the convoyed ships, using our sonar gear. It gave the maximum protection against subs. The cans would patrol in their stations.

NOEMFOOR ISLAND

JULY 1944

1st- We were now (as of June 23rd) in DesDiv 24 (WILKES, NICHOLSON, SWANSON, GRAYSON). DesRon12 was Capt P. Burford in the FARENHOLT (DD 491). He was not in the SW Pacific Area. For this (OPERATION- TABLE TENNIS--the invasion of NOEMFOOR ISLAND), the Commodore was CTG 77.5/CTU 77.5.2 (WILKES, ROE, NICHOLSON, GILLESPIE F/D). CTF 77 was Rear Admiral William Fechteler, Commander of the Amphib Attack Force, in the REID. We escorted merchant ships: JOSE BARBOSA, NORMAN MACK, THOMAS NELSON, JANNSENS (Dutch). 0830, we anchored in Toem. The JAMES CRAIG (DE 201) and ROE, and GILLESPIE patrolled outside as the ASW screen. We had red alerts. (D DAY) 2nd-1800, we left Toem with (Echelon T-2) the merchant ships mentioned above, plus C. KOHRS, H. T. WHITE, LST 18 (F), 67, 66, 204 and YUMA (ATF 94). 3rd- 0030, passed cans of CDS 2. 1105, passed ships under the command of CDD 38. 1230, MACK, NELSON, WHITE, JANSSENS escorted by ROE and NICHOLSON left for Bosnik. The remaining ships anchored in Woendi Lagoon. Admiral Fechteler in the REID was SOPA. 1530, the Commodore left for conference with the Admiral.. 1700, we all got underway for Noemfoor, for our next invasion. 1900, a PT boat came alongside with Col. Vanderborg to go to Kamiri Airfield on Noemfoor.

4th- 0600, we arrived at Kamiri, Noemfoor and the LST's started towards the beach. CTU 77.3.3 in the STEVENSON was SOPA. Other ships present were: STOCKTON, GRAYSON, SWANSON, PC 1133, plus many landing craft. We, STOCKTON, NICHOLSON, ROE went on ASW screen to seaward. STEVENSON, SWANSON, GRAYSON were SFC ships. 1100, a large number of Army C-47 planes dropped paratroops in our area (Namiri Airfield). It was a spectacular sight. We later learned that many paratroopers were killed and injured in the drop, as the planes were too low, about 500 feet. It was about 9 months before we had another paratroop drop in SW Pac. 1930, B-17 bombers dropped supplies by parachute. 1900, we retired eastward, during the night, with LST 18, 67, 204, 66, KOHRS (M/S), YUMA. 5th-0640, all ships returned to unloading area. The NICHOLSON and we got orders to go on a shore fire mission near the Kornasoren airfield. We picked up Ens. Larson as Naval Gunfire Liaison Officer. 0900, we started firing in the vicinity of Sjoriboe Village and fired 200 rounds of 5". After we stopped firing, a very unusual thing happened, 5 men came out to the ship in a native canoe. All spoke Dutch but no English. One was a Dutch-native policeman. They were lucky to have survived the occupation. We took them to the Army HQ for any intelligence information they might have. 1000, ROE with a small detachment of Army troops, occupied Manim Is., with no opposition. That night we and the ROE patrolled outside the harbor. The Commanding General and his staff came on board for a conference with CO's and gun bosses of ROE and GILLESPIE. They wanted to plan the landing at Roemboi Bay, set for 0930 on the 6th.

6th- WILKES, GILLESPIE, NICHOLSON, ROE, PC 1133, 1 rocket LCI, 2 LCC and 18 LCM went on the landing at Roemboi Bay (Namber Airfield). 0800, 6 B-25's bomb and strafed the beaches. 0905, WILKES, ROE, GILLESPIE opened fire on our assigned shore targets. The rocket LCI fired its rockets. It was a awesome sight. 0935, we ceased firing and the landing craft hit the beach. 0800, 6 B-25 bombed and strafed the landing area. We fired a total of 603 - 5", plus a lot of 40/20MM. There was a shortage of smokeless powder for our 5" guns and had to use flashless powder. Smoke from our firing, interfered with our visibility to the firing area. 1400, the Army shore fire control party was still not set up. We went to Kamiri as the ASW screen. The ships in our group retired from the area at night. NICK fired on Menoekwari Village. All 3 airfields- Kornsoren, Kamiri and Namber had been taken. 7th-Landings were going well. 0030, ROE and GILLESPIE took 2 LST's to Woendi. Most of the ships returned to the beach to finish their unloading. MUSTIN was the fighter director ship now. We, HUGHES (DD 410), MORRIS (CDS 2)(SOPA), NICK, GILLESPIE, YUMA formed the ASW screen. 1600, we approached the beach and took 5 officers from CTF 77's staff for transportation to Humboldt. 1800, we left with our convoy of 4 LST's, 4 LCI's, (Echelon T-3) back to Humboldt. 8th- 0530, ROE escorting 2 LST's joined up. 9th- 1000, we all arrived Humboldt. CTF 77 was in the HENRY T. ALLEN (AG 90). 1600, refueled from the BISHOPDALE. 10th- alongside the BOOTES (AK-99) for ammo Then we were at anchor until the 13th. We had a few days to do some upkeep and cleaning. CDD 24 inspected the SWANSON. Even in the very forward areas, our ships had to keep up our training and all around efficiency.

13th-0800, we left Humboldt for Seeadler with the NICHOLSON, ROE and RUSSELL (DD 414). 14th- 0800, arrived Seeadler and went alongside the LEOPARD for fuel. We had 5 days availability, which was badly needed, alongside the WHITNEY (AD 4). We got new "fish" as well. This was a big job. Our torpedo gang had to get our old fish ready to be transferred and then had to get the new ones on board and into the mounts. The crew got some liberty and got caught up on ship's work. From NSD, Lorengau, we took on 250 cases of beer, which was something new for us, plus 1630 cases for ships at Humboldt. We had cases stacked all over the deck. The ROE was ordered back to the States for repairs. We were now operating with the RUSSELL and RADFORD (DD-446). On the 19th- we got underway for ASW exercises with sub - S-42. 1800, 2 Army majors and l Navy enlisted man came on board for transportation to

Hollandia.

20th-On the way back to Humboldt, the NICK had a boiler casualty. We fired AA practice. 21st- 0700, we got back to Humboldt and distributed the cases of beer to the other ships, keeping our shares, of course. We had a few days (23-29th) of R & R-beer parties on the beach. Our crew also got a chance to paint the ship. Since paint was a fire hazard, we carried very little on board. We drew the paint from a supply ship in the harbor. After it was done, the ship looked brand new. All hands took pride in a good looking ship. As usual, we took on fuel, ammo, and stores and was ready to go again. 30th- 1430, refueled from SS BIRCH COULIE. CDD 24 was again CTU 77.4.2. 2300, we, NICK, STACK (DD 406), GRAYSON, we went to Maffin Bay, N.G. 31st (D+1), we picked up LST 67, 181, 204, 245, 468, 469, 470, 475 from Maffin Bay to Red Beach at Warsai, N.G.

SHIPS IN THE INVASION OF NOEMFOOR "OPERATION TABLE TENNIS" TF 77-RADM William E. Fechteler, Commanding

ASSAULT FORCE DD'S-- GILLESPIE, GRAYSON, HOBBY, JENKINS, LAVALLETTE, NICHOLSON, RADFORD, REID (F), ROE, STEVENSON, STOCKTON, SWANSON (CTF 77), WELLES, WILKES.

OTHERS-- PC # 1120, 1132, 1133, 1134. Rocket-LCI #31, 34, 73. YUMA (tug), LCI #543, 544

COVERING FORCE--HMAS AUSTRALIA, USS BOISE, PHOENIX.

CAPE SANSAPOR

AUGUST 1944

We stopped by Windy Island so that 2 LST's could tow 2 other LST's to the beach head at CAPE SANSAPOR. The area was on the Vogelkop Peninsula, a bird shaped area of western New Guinea. The Sansapor operation was called ''OPERATION GLOBE TROTTER." RADM William Fechteler was the Commander (CTF 77). His flagship was the SWANSON. On the 1st- they passed us E/B. 2nd- We joined with a large convoy, led by ComDesRon2 , in the MORRIS. 0623, bogies 10 miles ahead. 0700, our air cover arrived. 1300, LST 456 and VIREO (ATO -144) joined up. 1530, we crossed the Equator at 134 degrees 5' E. 3rd-(D+4)- Our convoy re-crossed the equator at 0305, 132 degrees 25' East. 0800, we all arrived at the beach head. The LST's beached and unloaded. We and STOCKTON screened 15 miles west of Soe Is. The Commodore (CTG 77.4) left the ship to confer with Navy and Army officers on the beach. 1330, our fighter cover left due to bad weather. The overall plan was to establish a PT boat base on Amsterdam Is; an air field on Middleburg Is. and an Army base on Sanaspor Village. 1715, the LST's were finished, we took them back to Windy Island (Woendi Lagoon).

4th-Our fighter cover was back, on station. We were still escorting. The CO decided it would be a good time to have small arms practice on the fantail. We fired 400 rounds .30 cal; 100-.22 and 250-.45. Tonight we had 2 P-51 night fighters on patrol. 5th-0410, one of our LST reported a stick of bombs fell astern of her. A Jap plane must have followed a B-25 that flew overhead. 0430, Red Alert-bombs dropped-no damage. 0700, the VIREO left to go to Woendi Lagoon. LONG BEACH, CORONADO reported for duty. 0800, we, GRAYSON, NICK, STACK left the convoy to go Woendi Lagoon to refuel. 0900, refueled from VICTORIA, and then anchored west of Noesi Is. Army casualties were light, 1 soldier killed in the landings. This operation took our forces to the western end of New Guinea, ending it as a base for enemy operations. We had by-passed many enemy soldiers, who were now effectively isolated. Due to the absence of any roads, their only means of transport, was by barges along the coast. Our PT boats could and did take care of that threat.

6th- A Sunday, we finally got a chance to attend church services, which were held on the TANGIER (AV 8). The crew also got liberty. 7th- liberty again today. The shore based people loaned us an LCVP while we were in port. They provided the boat, we furnished the crew. This was standard in the forward area. We had our one and only fatality of the war. Fireman 1/c Harold Firebaugh, an electrician striker, drowned, while swimming in Woendi Lagoon. He was part of our liberty party and apparently attempted to swim to one of the small islands in the lagoon. There was a strong, swift current running between the islands and he wasn't that strong a swimmer. His body was found, shortly after he was discovered missing, in 10 feet of water. One of our crew dived down and recovered the body. We tried artificial respiration- no luck. We rushed him back to the ship, but the doctor pronounced him dead. He was buried on Windy Island. This was a very unfortunate accident. The XO always assigned a ship's officer to this kind of liberty party, but there was no way anyone could have prevented this accident. Later that day, we, NICK, LONG BEACH (ComCortDiv 25), CORONADO, SAN PEDRO convoyed LST's 22, 17l, 395, 397, 452, 462, 463; 1 Liberty ship (JAMES OLIVER) to Sansapor. We passed the HOBBY and her convoy going to Windy Is. 9th- 0800, we arrived at Sansapor, the LST's unloaded and we started back to Humboldt Bay. We got a dispatch informing us, and our Division were to be transferred to the THIRD FLEET. We are to report by Aug. 25 at the Majuro Atoll, in the Marshall's. This would be a big change for us.

We continue to convoy. 10th, we passed the FLETCHER (DD 445) and her convoy, headed to Sansapor. The next day, the NICHOLSON and 1 LST were dropped off for Windy Is. We dropped off the remaining ships at Wakde and then proceeded to Humboldt. On the way, we passed several convoys headed to Sansapor.

TASK FORCE 77--CAPE SANSAPOR "OPERATION GLOBE TROTTER"

RADM William M. Fechteler-Commanding, in the SWANSON

DD's--SWANSON (F), FLETCHER, HUGHES, JENKINS, LAVALLETTE, MORRIS, RADFORD, RUSSELL, STEVENSON, WELLES, WILKES

APD's--CROSBY, HERBERT, KILTY, SCHLEY, WARD

OTHERS--LCI (rocket) # 134, 173. VIREO (tug). 9 LST, 17 LCI, 2 PT.

COVERING FORCE--RADM Berkley-3 USS CL and 9 DD's.

WESTERN CAROLINES

THIRD/FIFTH FLEETS--TF 38/58

August 13-19th- We were still in Humboldt Bay, getting ready to leave for the THIRD FLEET. 14th- CDD 24 inspected the ship. There was another big change. 19th-1300, we got a new Commanding Officer. Captain Wolsieffer was transferred. The new CO was LCDR Fred E. McEntire, Jr., USN. Dr Bernard Stollman was also transferred back to the States. This was a very busy day. The Commodore made many calls on other ships and commands to say "good by". It was leaving old friends again and looking forward to new adventure and challenges in the THIRD FLEET. 1415, we refueled from the BISHOPDALE. Later in the day, we and the GRAYSON, who was now part of our Division, got underway for the Marshall Islands. 20th- We picked up the NICHOLSON (from Alexishafen) en route to Seeadler, where the SWANSON joined us. We were now DesDiv 24, our Squadron-DesRon 12. Our Division was: WILKES, SWANSON, NICHOLSON, GRAYSON. To keep the record straight on the number of the "Fleets". When Admiral Halsey was in command, it was the THIRD FLEET. When Admiral Spruance commanded, it was the FIFTH FLEET--same ships--same missions. It is doubtful it confused the Japs, as much as it did us.

En route, all ships performed various drills and gunnery practice. 25th-1415, The Division arrived at Eniwetok (a change of orders). The Commodore reported us ready for duty to the Commander Third Fleet---Admiral W. F. Halsey and CTF 38 --Vice Admiral M. A Mitscher. We all immediately refueled and took on stores. The harbor was full of ships of all kinds-an unbelievable number. In SW Pac, our Navy was mainly amphib types, with a good number of cans to protect them. We didn't have any heavy cruisers, carriers or BB's. Now the place is loaded with large carriers-10, lots of cruisers of all types, some BB's and a large number of cans, plus every type of auxiliary ship. The PRAIRIE (AD 15) gave us some spare parts we needed. We also got some good quality food, no more Aussie "mutton".

27th-Our new boss, put us to work right away. 1300, Capt E. G. Fullinwinder-CTU 38.4.3 called a conference on his flagship (MAURY) of all CDD's and CO's to discuss the upcoming operations. 28th-0500, we got underway with TG 38.4 of TF 38. In our group, we had 3 carriers: ENTERPRISE (CV 6), FRANKLIN (CV 13), SAN JACINTO (CVL 30), 2 cruisers: NEW ORLEANS (CA-32), BILOXI (CL-80) and 12 cans: MAURY (CDS 6), CRAVEN (DD-382), GRIDLEY (DD-380), HELM (DD-388), McCALL (DD-400), MUGFORD (DD-389),(CDD 12-CDR. K. F. Poehlman), RALPH TALBOT (DD-390), PATTERSON (DD-392), BAGLEY (DD-386), WILKES (CDD-24), NICHOLSON, SWANSON Our CTG 38.4, CTU 38.4.1 was RADM. R. Davison, in the FRANKLIN, plus SAN JACINTO. CTU 38.4.11 - RADM. H. B. Sallado (ComCarDiv 6) in ENTERPRISE. TU 38.4.2 - the BILOXI (CL 80) and NEW ORLEANS (CA 32) plus 11 DD's were the bombardment group. The carrier TG was screened by DesDiv 12 and 24 + McCALL. The Commodore was the screen commander. The heavy ships were in column and the screen was a "bent line."

The overall bosses: VADM. M. A. Mitscher in the LEXINGTON (CV 16) and ADM Halsey in the NEW JERSEY (BB 62) were not in our area.

The carriers in the TF were as follows: CTG 38.1--Vice Admiral J. S. McCain

WASP (CV 18)--Capt O. A.Weller HORNET (CV 12)--Capt A. K Doyle

MONTEREY (CVL 26)--Capt S. Ingersoll COWPENS (CVL 25)-- Capt H. W. Taylor

HANCOCK (CV 19)--Capt F. C. Dickey

CTG 38.2--Rear Admiral G. F. Borgan (ComCarDiv 4)

INTREPID (CV 11)-- Capt J. F. Bolger BUNKER HILL (CV 17)--Capt M. R. Greer

CABOT (CVL 28) Capt S. J. Michael LANGLEY (CVL 27) Capt J. F. Wegforth

CTG 38.4--Rear Admiral R. E. Davison (ComCarDiv 2) ---- OUR GROUP----

FRANKLIN (CV 13) Capt J. M. Shoemaker with Air Group 13

ENTERPRISE (CV 6)--Capt C. D. Glover--with Air Group 20

BELLEAU WOOD (CVL 24) Capt J. Perry, with Air Group 21

SAN JACINTO (CVL 30) Capt M. H. Kornodle, with Air Group 51

Commander, Escort Carrier Group---Rear Admiral T. L Sprague

BONIN-VOLCANO ISLANDS

As we all got underway, we all practiced firing at a "sleeve" being towed by a plane. We (Task Group) shot down 10. The carriers practiced launching and recovery of their planes. We were all headed for a heavy raid on the Bonin Islands, which were small islands, about 650 miles from Japan. These places had odd names: Chichi Jima, Ha Ha Jima, and Iwo Jima . No one had ever heard of them before. In a short time Iwo Jima would be in the world's spot light. They all had air fields placed to protect the Home Islands. These fields were our targets. We also raided Yap and Palau and later returned to Seeadler. Our base speed was 18 kts, with lots of 35 kts to keep up with the carriers, as they launched and recovered their planes. We took our turn as the radar picket 12 miles ahead of the TG. We had to refuel every day, due to our high speed. Usually, we refueled from the NEW ORLEANS, who passed us some whole wheat bread and ice cream. The TG was in cruising disposition 5R.

On the 31st-Our planes raided targets on the Bonin's. We started carrier ops, with the full launch at 1300, against Iwo Jima, Chichi Jima, Volcano Islands. We were 120 miles from them and 550 miles from Japan. 1735, RALPH TALBOT to picket duty. 2315, the 2 cruisers escorted by MAURY, CRAVEN, GRIDLEY HELM (cans) went to shell Futami Ko. We stayed and screened (protected) the carriers. Many enemy planes were around, but our CAP (combat air patrol) drove them off. When the carriers launched their planes, the whole formation changed course, into the wind, and increased formation speed to 30-35 kts. This was to give the heavy loaded planes additional lift to take off. On recovery, on completion of the mission, the same procedure. This was to make it easier for the planes to land on the pitching deck of the carrier--lower relative speed and the head wind slowed the planes down. Cans were plane guards for both launching and recovery. We got our share of this duty. If a plane crashed-the can rushed to pick up the survivors. The plane usually floated long enough for the men to get out. They all wore "Mae West" life vests, plus the planes carried small inflatable rubber rafts-if they had time to get them out. All planes carried green dye. This dye would cover a large area, so searching planes and ships could spot survivors in the water. During our time with the TF, we picked up 22 airmen. When we were plane guarding on recovery, the planes passed very low over us. We could see the battle damage to the planes. Sometimes it was severe, too bad to land on the carrier and the pilot would have to ditch in the water. We or another can would rush to pick him up.

The US was most concerned for the safe recovery of its airmen. The Navy also had subs stationed off the islands under attack. The sub monitored the plane's radio frequencies. If a plane was shot down, the sub would go in to pick the crew up, sometimes right up to the beach and under the Japs' guns. President Bush flying off the SAN JACINTO was shot down near Yap and a sub rescued him. This was during the time our TG was hitting Yap.

Perhaps it might be the time to discuss the huge difference between our present assignment and the ops with the 7th Fleet. First the climate: We had been working in the tropics-within 6 degrees of the equator and everyone suffered from the heat. The seas were usually calm, with lots of rain. Now the seas were almost as bad as in the North Atlantic, the weather much cooler. We were in the typhoon area. Operations-With the 7th Fleet our 2 main jobs were shore bombardment in support of numerous amphib landings, and protecting the ships/ troops, etc. from enemy air attacks. Second: the convoying of slow amphib and supply ships, at 9 kts, from our advance bases to the beach heads, in our "island hopping".

Now, we were operating with a fast carrier TG, at 35 kts, providing AA and ASW protection to the TG. We also had plane guarding responsibilities on launching and recovery of planes. We were also a radar picket and sometimes the radio link between TG's in our TF. Third: With the 7th Flt, we were known as "MacArthur's Navy". The Army called the shots. We went where and when they wanted us to go. In contrast, with the carriers, it was a 100% Navy show. However, we never had any trouble working with/for the Army. It was probably the very first long-term successful joint operations, "jointness", as it is now called in the 90's. In the 40's, it was called "BEAT THE ENEMY."

The first line of defense against enemy air attack, was the TG's CAP(Combat Air patrol). These were 4 or 5 fighter planes, which were launched early in the morning and recovered the last in the evening. They would orbit near and over the TG to attack any bogies that might approach us. Of course they were relieved during that time to come in to refuel, and re-arm. They were controlled by the TG fighter director, who was usually on the flagship. The air search radars on the various ships were meant to detect incoming enemy planes (bogies), but they had a bad habit of slipping in undetected. The CV's air search radar was much better than ours and their radar antenna were mounted higher, which gave their radar a longer range. The carriers had a very effective CIC, with much more sophisticated equipment to track multiple bogies. It was much more elaborate than ours, several times larger, with many more people, plotting, status and tracking boards.

We were on the leading edge of the US offensive against the Japanese Home Land. Our TF was going to places no US ships had gone in this war.

One other aspect of our operations that should be touched on, even though it only impacted the bridge personnel-mainly the OOD, CO, XO. Screening--There were several different types of formations, but our TF usually used 2 basic types-both circular. The carriers, cruisers and BB's were in the center. The cans were in a circular screen around the center. It was every ship's primary duty to protect the carriers at ALL COST. During the day, the formation was basically ASW. The other screen was against air attack-and the circle of cans were much closer to the center. The screen assignments were assigned by Com Screen. Sometimes the Commodore was the screen commander. There was a Fleet Tactical Publication (USF 10A) that spelled out how the screens would operate, etc. For some reason, occasionally there would be a vacant station, then the cans would be re-positioned. The vacant stations, if any, were always at the rear of the formation. Danger was up ahead. We were always headed into danger.

We knew about what time air ops would begin, so the OOD would keep an eye on the wind direction, so he had a good idea about what course the OTC would come to. Before flight ops started the TG commander's ship would fly the "FOX" flag at the dip.-which meant "prepare for flight operations." When 2-blocked, flight ops started. We all knew that a course and speed change would be ordered and the whole formation turned into the wind. The entire screen had to be adjusted. The cans-up in front-the vacant spots in the rear. The OOD and the CIC watch officer had to quickly figure out the course and speed to get to our new station. They had to be proficient in the use of the maneuvering board, which had all the stations plotted on it.

The OTC (Officer in Tactical Command)-on the carrier flagship, would hoist the signals for the new course. Our signalmen would be watching the OTC's ship for any signals. We would hoist the same signal flags. When the signal was understood, it was "2 blocked". When every ship "2 blocked", the OTC would "execute"-haul down the hoist. Then every ship in the formation turned at the same time. The cans would "scramble" to their new screening stations. If this maneuver was done at night, the OTC used the TBS to give his orders. Every ship had a code name, as well as the various flag/unit officers. The "W's name, for these operations, was BLUE RIBBON. The OTC would give the course/speed change in the following way: "WHITE DEER (all ships), this is TOP HAT (TG Commander) stand by to execute course Shackle -Dog, Baker, Tare- Unshackle. Speed- Shackle - Dog Xray- Unshackle. BLUE RIBBON acknowledge . Our OOD would reply on the TBS: "THIS IS BLUE RIBBON -ROGER". One ship would acknowledge for all-to save time. With 30-40 ships, if each acknowledged-what confusion. The OTC would wait 2-3 minutes and then say: "EXECUTE". The whole TG would come to the new course and speed. Our CIC would back up all voice radio transmissions, including TBS. They had a copy of the General Signal Book (GSB), op orders, call signs, etc. Woe to any OOD who missed the signal, came to the wrong course, was slow in getting to the new screen station. The ship would get a "JIG" flag or "POSIT" pennant. If this sounds complicated--it was. It separated the men from the boys.

SEPTEMBER 1944

Sept 1-Our TG was still making air strikes on Iwo Jima and Chichi Jima, operating off the Bonin and Volcano Islands. 0155, bogies were in the area until 0345, but they didn't come close to our TG. We were at GQ most of the time. The carriers launched a large number of planes at 0430. 1 plane, a TBM, crashed. We were the "plane guard" at 30 kts., for the "E". We picked up all 3 crew members. They were Lt. E. R. Holley, P. W. Knight, ARM 1/c, J. F. Schmidt, AOM 2/c. All were OK. 0530, the Bombardment Group (TU 38.4.2) left our formation, to hit Chichi Jima and Iwo Jima. When they were gone, the Commodore was the screen commander for the carriers. The position of the TG at 0800-was at 26 degrees, 32' N and 143 degrees, 15' W. 1340, another wave of planes launched. 1750, the carriers completed flight ops. If possible they wanted to finish flight ops before darkness. 1800, the cruisers and escorting cans returned to the formation. They reported a good shore bombardment.

2nd-0300, our SC radar had Iwo Jima 220 degrees T, 73,500 yards. Carriers launched another big raid. We were still doing plane guard duty. 1 plane crashed on launch. We picked up the crew-all safe. 0450, McCALL rescued a pilot in water. 0830, we went alongside the Big "E" and hi-lined her air crew back. She gave us ice cream-fair exchange. We had our own ice cream machine-a rarity for a can to have one, but we never turned down anything free. The cruisers and cans went back to bombard again. The Commodore was ComScreen. 0900, we went alongside the FRANKLIN and hi-lined her some radio equipment. A lowly "can" giving equipment to a carrier? Later the cruisers and cans came back to the formation, after completing another successful shore bombardment. The TG headed for Saipan for fuel and re-supply.

3rd- 8 B-29's came over our formation. One was badly damaged and the crew bailed out over the TG. 10 crew members were picked by McCALL, SWANSON, CRAVEN. One man drowned. 1700, we and RALPH TALBOT went out to our assigned picket station, 25,000 yards ahead of the formation. 4th -0345, we had radar contact with TU 30.8.10 (tankers). They were NIOBRARA (AO-72), ENOREE (AO-69), ATASCOSA (AO-66), escorted by WILEMAN (DE-22), WYMAN (DE-38). We re-fueled from the ATASCOSA, with the "E" on the other side of the tanker. Only 2 carriers fueled at any one time. The third maintained routine air patrols over the TG. By 1500, the TG had finished fueling. 1800, we all arrived at Saipan. There was no harbor at Saipan, all ships anchored off the island and were buffeted by heavy ocean swells. We took on supplies, etc. as quickly as we could, as we were scheduled to get underway again the next day.

YAP-PALAU-ULITHI-PELELIU

YAP was a small island in the Western Carolines, about 500 miles east of the Philippines and it had an air field. While we were not concerned about the High Command's strategy, it was obvious that it was 2 fold: to eliminate the enemy's air fields that might pose a threat to our ships and to capture the islands with suitable fields, so we could use them for our long range B -29 raids against the Home Islands.

5th- In the afternoon, our TG got underway for operations preparatory and incidental to the landings on Peleliu and Angour Islands. Our course was SW. 6th-1300, our TG was about 50 miles NE of Ulithi Atoll. Our carriers launched fighters against Yap Island. We were again plane guarding. One plane crashed and we went to pick up the pilot, Lt (jg) J.E. Tsarnas, USN. He was OK, except for a minor scratch, but we couldn't find the enlisted crew member. It was hard for the radio man to get out of a plane in the water. We searched, but had no luck-very sad. 1045, transferred the pilot back to the "E", via hi-line. We were now about 50 miles East of Yap. 7th & 8th- Both days our carriers launched multiple air strikes against Yap. Our bombardment group (NEW ORLEANS, BILOXI and Des Div 12) hit shore targets. The NICHOLSON went with this group. On the 7th- the NICK had a engineering casualty and had to leave the screen. She got back in the screen in about 2 hours. 1800, we and the SWANSON had picket duty 25,000 yards ahead of the TG. By this time, everyone felt we were on the "downhill pull'., but much heavy fighting was still ahead.

8th-The SWANSON went to pick up a downed pilot and crew near Yap, but on the way had a main engine casualty. 9th-We refueled early in the morning from the PATUXENT (AO 44). The BELLEAU WOOD rejoined our Task Group. The SWANSON picked up a downed pilot near the beach. Our TG was 175 miles east of Palau. The fueling group, were the tankers, NESHO (AO 48), PATUXENT (AO 44) and MONGAHELA (AO 42), Escort carriers, NASSAU (CVE 16), SARGENT BAY (CVE 83), STEAMER BAY (CVE 87), DE's- HILBERT (DE 742), OSTERHAUS (DE 164), RIDDLE (DE 185). The CVE's brought out planes for our CV's. While we refueled, the carriers got their replacement planes. During our air operations, many of the planes were damaged. Some, to badly to be repaired, were pushed over the side of the carrier. So the carriers were always in need of replacements. Fortunately our plane plants at home, were able to turn out planes fast enough to easily replace those lost. We all finished refueling about 1430 and proceeded NE to meet up with the SWANSON, at sunset. The TF was in cruising disposition 5R (our normal formation). 1800, we and the GRIDLEY went out to picket duty . The TG was now headed towards PALAU. 10th-Since all good targets were destroyed on Yap and Ulithi, the carriers shifted their attacks onto Palau. By this time, our TG was about 40 miles northeast of the island. 0450, we returned to the screen from our picket duty. 1055, we got mail from the BAGLEY. We hadn't gotten mail in sometime and the crew was delighted to get some. At sunset, the PATTERSON went out as a picket and the HELM and GRIDLEY left to join the LANGLEY (CVL 27). 11th-0600, the carriers launched their planes against the Palau Islands. Our TG was North of the Islands. 1130, we topped off fuel from the ENTERPRISE. 1630, carriers completed their air ops, all planes returned to their carriers. Each night, at sunset, pickets(cans) were sent out ahead of the TG.

12th-More heavy carrier raids on Palau, starting at 0600. The GRIDLEY and HELMS and the pickets rejoin the TG. 1430, the GRIDLEY went out to rescue a pilot-no luck. 2100, air ops finished for the day. The TG was now North of Palau. On the l3th- 0523, the carriers started launching planes against Palau. A plane crashed 22 miles astern of the TG. We went out to search for them. We recovered all 3 airmen (Lt (jg) C. C. Harbor-Pilot, W. Johnson, AOM 3/c, J. W. Nickum, ARM 3/c), and hi-lined them back to the FRANKLIN. One of the men picked up was a good friend of one of our crew- small world. 1800, the SWANSON and we went out on picket duty, but due to an unsatisfactory voice radio, we had to return to the formation. We went back to our normal position in the screen. 14th-0810, the forward spring bearing of the starboard engine was running hot. We had to stop the shaft. On inspection, we found water in the oil. Our engineering people flushed the bearing and replaced the oil. The shaft was put back in service. It was OK, but still ran hot. We got some mail hi-lined from the RALPH TALBOT. Our carriers conducted more heavy air raids. As usual-2000, the carriers recovered their night fighters. By this time out TG was West and SW of the islands. We had to keep moving around, so the enemy planes would have trouble finding us.

"D" Day for the invasion of Peleliu was the 15th. The First Marine Division hit the beach at 0830, and they met very heavy resistance. Our carrier planes supported the landing. Many sorties were flown on both 15th and 16th. The carriers started to launch very early in the mornings. 1500, we refueled from the "E". 2025, all carrier planes were home. Our shore fire units blasted the beaches. We were on the spotter plane radio frequency and could hear what was going on. One spotter plane saw a Jap tank coming towards our troops and the cruiser opened fire. While close, didn't hit the tank. The tank got close to our troops, when it turned around to go back into the hills. The cruiser got the range and destroyed the tank-nice shooting. At night we could see the gunflashes, starshells, etc. from the action on Peleliu Island. 17th - Everyone re-fueled from the tankers. TU 30.8.1, the refueling group was: MARIAS (AO-57), MANATEE (AO 58), MISSISSINEWA (AO 59), PONGANSET (AO 86), screened by the LEVY (DE 162) and HALL (DD 583). We got ours from the MARIAS. 1700, the BELLEAU WOOD came back to the TG. We then moved to an area west of Palau. The PATTERSON (DD 392) passed mail to us. 1800, we and the McCALL went out as pickets.

18th- At daylight the INDIANA (BB 58) and HEALY (DD 672) joined up with our TG. Our TG was now the carriers: BELLEAU WOOD, "E", SAN JACINTO, FRANKLIN (guide); INDIANA, NEW ORLEANS, BILOXI. The screen was: WILKES, SWANSON, NICHOLSON, McCALL, PATTERSON, CRAVEN, RALPH TALBOT, MAURY, MUGFORD, HALL, GRIDLEY, BAGLEY, HELM, HEALY. We were about 75 miles West of Palau. The carriers conducted more heavy raids on Peleliu and Anguar. They launched and recovered planes all day. At 1300, the INDIANA, GRIDLEY and HELMS left the TG and at 1800 they rejoined us. We heard that the INDIANA couldn't keep up with our hi-speed. In the evening, we all departed for Seeadler Harbor. During this entire operation our Division was on the ASW/AA screen., plus doing picket duty. We were at high speed most of the time. Fortunately, the weather was good and sea calm. Another TG relieved us ( 4 carriers, 1 BB, 12 cans). 19th - On our way we passed 2 very large convoys headed towards Palau with troop reinforcements and supplies. 21st-0600, we all arrived Seeadler, refueled, got mail and stores. We anchored and the BAGLEY (DD 386) tied up alongside. The crew got some liberty. By this time, Seeadler had some fine recreation facilities: baseball diamonds, tennis, volleyball courts, also a pool with 6 diving boards. The biggest draw was "Duffy's Tavern", which could seat 600 men and served beer. Some Place! Some change since Feb. 22nd- Capt V. D. Long relieved Capt E. G. Fullinwider as CDS 6 and CTU 38.4.3

24th- We were still with TG 38.4, with the same carriers, cruisers, etc. (FRANKLIN (F), ENTERPRISE, BELLEAU WOOD, SAN JACINTO, BILIOX, NEW ORLEANS, Desron 6 (less CRAVEN), MAURY(F), GRIDLEY, HELM, McCALL, MUGFORD, RALPH TALBOT, PATTERSON, BAGLEY; DesDiv 24 (less GRAYSON),WILKES, NICHOLSON, SWANSON. We got underway for the invasion of Yap at 0800. While we were in port, we got 40+ new men. 1630, we and McCALL had picket duty. 25th- 2 officers and 10 seamen were inducted into the "Kingdom of Neptune Rex". This "ceremony" was tame compared to the one in Jan. 26th- The ship got a dispatch, we and the NICHOLSON will be going back to the States (SFran) for overhaul. It was scheduled for the end of October, a long way off. Our overhaul was long overdue. However we had to stay with our TG, until our reliefs arrived. The war wouldn't wait, so we had to continue, as usual. 27th- We refueled from the NEW ORLEANS. One of the crew, Toop, got appendicitis and was hi-lined to the FRANKLIN for surgery. We and PATTERSON have picket duty. 28th-Each day the carriers launch and recover planes. We get in some AA gunnery drills. SWANSON and GRIDLEY went out as pickets. 29th- Lots of drills. We refueled from the "E" and they gave us ice cream. 1300, McCALL sunk a mine. 1530, we refueled from the "E" 1800, HELM and McCALL went out as pickets.

30th- 0300, "E" launched planes. Carrier ops all day. 1300, plane crashed trying to land on the SAN JACINTO. We recovered the pilot.

The invasions of the Palau Islands were very costly, as enemy resistance was heavy and our losses high. However we did eliminate enemy air fields and got a wonderful anchorage in the Ulithi Atoll. It became one of our largest advance bases and the hub for all naval/logistical activity for the THIRD FLEET.

PHILIPPINE CAMPAIGN ---------PALAU/OKINAWA/FORMOSA

OCTOBER 1944

lst- We were still with the same carriers, cruisers, cans in out TASK GROUP. 2nd- We were again west of Palau. 0300, the FRANKLIN launched her planes. The carriers launched and recovered planes all day, until 1730. 2nd- We again refueled from the "E" + ice cream. Our TG was now, 200 miles East of the Philippines. The TG conducted gunnery exercises. 1730, We and RALPH TALBOT went on picket duty. 3rd-Since we were scheduled to return to the States, we hi-lined the Commodore (Capt Greenacre) and his staff to the SWANSON. As events unfolded, it was a bit premature. We refueled from the TOMAHAWK (A0-88) , got mail and passengers. We then delivered mail to various ships in the TG. 4& 6th- The TG ran into very heavy weather. We rolled 44 degrees-just like in the North Atlantic. Due to very bad weather, all flight ops canceled. By this time, we were now close to Yap. On the 5th- we lost steering, due to binding of the helm. OK in 1/2 hour- We were very lucky, since we were in bad weather and in close formation. Our carriers launched heavy air strikes. We were the plane guard for the "E". 6th-Some AA gunnery practice. 7th- The sea was still rough, with waves over the bridge. TG 38.1 joined us. Now all of TF 38 was together. Another dispatch came concerning our overhaul. We will go to Seattle rather than Frisco.

8th-0610, our TG started to refuel from our tanker group. We tried to refuel from the MARIAS (AO 57), but the sea was too rough-no luck. We broke the fuel hose. Later in the day, we tried from the "E"-still no luck-too rough. We broke another fuel line. By this time, we were pretty low on fuel. However late in the day, we were able to refuel from a tanker. While alongside the "E" we got mail and then hi-lined it to the cruisers and other cans. We were the "mailman." The NICK did a fine job transferring passengers to us, as the seas still were very rough.

By the 9th- all of TF 38 was assembled and we were on our way to launch air strikes against Okinawa Jima, Nansei Shoto, then later to--Formosa, Luzon, and Samar. We went at 30 kts, steaming North, past the Maracas, to the vicinity of Risky Islands. There were 16 carriers, 7 BB's, 20 cruisers, 65 DD's. A Jap sub was spotted nearby, but it got away. 10th- 0540, all carriers launched their planes against Okinawa and Nansie Shoto. They had a very successful raid, destroying several hundred planes, and several surface ships. 0610, we topped off fuel from the FRANKLIN. 1145, a plane from the FRANKLIN was reported down about 40 miles away. We joined the STEPHEN POTTER (DD 538) in the search. No luck, and we rejoined the screen. However, we later learned a sub rescued the pilot (TEAM WORK). Many bogies were around but none approached the TF. Admiral Halsey's intelligence people sent out summaries of the results of our raids, so we would have some idea our efforts, which were paying off handsomely.

11th- 0252, bogies at 18 miles, we went to GQ. Lots of GQ today. Planes from the "E" shot down 2 "Bettys". Our CAP was doing a fine job. In the morning, we refueled from the SCHUYLKILL (AO 76) and also got mail from them. We were again the "mailman" and hi-lined it to other ships. These were "hit and run" raids. High speed in-launch planes-recover planes and leave at high speed. Our Task Force became known as "Haul ass with Halsey". After refueling, we all steamed towards Formosa- at top speed. We got Toop back via hi-line-100% recovered. 1900, more bogies-GQ-night fighters shot them down. For sometime now, when we went at high speed, the whole ship shook. We really needed an overhaul, and soon.

12th- 0515, our SC radar picked up Formosa at 122 miles. 0600, the TG carriers started launching planes for strikes against Formosa. About 1000 planes took part in these raids. 0700, the McCALL sighted a "Francis" and a fighter from the SAN JACINTO "splashed" it. 1415, a BELLEAU WOOD fighter shot down a bogey. 1900, the other TG was under heavy air attack. We could hear the action on the TBS. 2000, more bogies at 5 miles. We fired on several enemy planes-all low flying. We had been using our SG radar on the 75,000 yard range scale to pick up the low flying Jap planes. It worked very well. Lots of GQ today. 13th-Early in the morning-GQ-another big raid, 9 enemy planes were shot down. We fired on 2 Bettys missed-disappointed. These planes were headed for the carriers and they passed very low near us. The carriers opened fire on them. What a display of AA fire power. They have several twin 5" mounts on the island, plus 40/20MM guns all along the edge of the flight deck and quad 40MM on the fantail. The planes were shot down, but one crashed close to the "E". 0615, our carriers launched air strikes on Formosa. 1600, RALPH TALBOT rescued 5 Jap airmen in the water. They were a bit reluctant at first, but finally they decided rescue beat drowning. 1827, 2 Bettys sighted at 6000 yards. Everyone opened fire. Both crashed near the FRANKLN. The Jap planes were able to get in so close, as they came in very low-50 feet-in bad weather, and our radar wasn't able to pick them up. Fortunately the Japs hadn't started the Kamikaze attacks yet. About this time the CAMBERRA (CA 70), who was in another one of our TG's was torpedoed and badly damaged. 2200, all the carriers launched air strikes against Luzon.

BATTLE OF THE PHILIPPINES

14th- 0600, all carriers again launched heavy air strikes against Luzon. The WASP (CV 8) was now with our TG. 1140, we topped off fuel from the FRANKLIN. We got potatoes, ice cream and waste rags. 15th- 0740, SC radar showed bogies at 20 miles. Some were shot down by the CAP. 1020, more bogies in area. Our CAP engaged them. 1047-8 Jap planes broke through and headed towards the FRANKLIN. All ships fired on them and 2 were splashed. We thought we hit one. One plane survived and passed low over us, we fired on him, but he continued on and passed away from the formation. He was so low, we could see the holes in his wing. He was very lucky this time. Perhaps he survived the war? 16th-0615 refueled from the LACKAWANA (A0-40) 1030, we proceeded to pick up the crew of a downed plane from the FRANKLIN. 1307, we recovered them safely (pilot -2 crew), and rejoined the screen. The pilot said he had shot down 3 planes over Luzon. Our carrier planes continued to hit Luzon. 17th- Very early, all carriers launched planes. 0730, topped off fuel from the FRANKLIN. All the high speed for long periods of time was very hard on the ship and the engineering gang. We could make 25 kts with a split plant ( 1 engine room and 1 fire room manned). Speeds higher than that, required both engine rooms and fire rooms on line. It also took a lot more fuel oil to go at the higher speeds. This made it necessary to refuel almost everyday. All the high speed running, plus being a GQ for long periods of time, was wearing everyone out. Lack of sleep was taking its toll.

18th-In the morning TG 38.1 joined us and Vice Admiral J. S. McCAIN, assumed tactical command. Our carriers continued air strikes against Luzon. They launched and recovered planes all day. 0900, GRIDLEY rescued a pilot from the SAN JACINTO. Carrier refueled the cans. 1900, we proceeded to the "E" to act as the plane guard. 1910, a plane from the, "E", crashed and we went to rescue the pilot. 1940, we got all 3 crew members of the TBF. We continued to search for the crew from another plane from the "E", but had no luck. Since we were very close to the islands, we had a CAP over us for protection. 2120, we returned to the formation and took our usual place in the screen. A returning plane crashed in flames on the edge of the deck of the "E" and fell into the sea. That fouled the deck. The plane guard was told to check to see if there were any survivors. By a miracle, a can recovered all the crew. A plane hit the starboard side of the BELLEAU WOOD- all killed and deck fouled. Due these accidents, 8 planes from the "E" ran out of gas near the TG and ditched. We recovered 1 crew of the 8. One of the crew member had a broken arm and Doctor Wyatt set it. Of the 8 that ditched, only 1 pilot was lost. Great work by the cans. It was very hard to search of ditched airmen at night. They were usually in their small rafts, but we were not able to use our searchlights. They had very pistols, that fired red flares to help the cans find them. The nights were dark, and the ocean vast, and the rafts small. 19th-0400, we were still looking for downed pilots. We recovered light floats and debris. We gave and returned to the screen. More of the same, heavy air strikes, carriers launched and recovered planes all day. We refueled from the FRANKLIN and got more potatoes and the radio equipment we had loaned them, earlier. Our raids on the Philippines were very successful. Our pilots destroyed many enemy planes-both in the air and on the ground.

20th- This was "D" DAY for the landings on Leyte. "H" hour was 1000. Our old friends- General Krueger and his 6th Army made the landings. It had been a long road back for General MacArthur and his men. The General made good on his promise "I SHALL RETURN" When he made that vow, not very many people thought he would be able to deliver, at least in a relatively short time and with such overwhelming force. If we were still with the 7th Fleet, we would be right up to the beaches, firing at the enemy. Now we were far away, somewhat detached from the dirty business of landing on the beaches in face of enemy opposition. Our planes covered the landings, which went very well. They bombed and strafed the beaches and other targets. The carriers continued to launch and recover all day. In a lull in the action, we went alongside the "E" and hi-line their air crew, back to them. They gave us ice cream-a fair exchange. 1900, we all started to meet with our tankers. Everyone was short of fuel. 21st- We refueled from the KENNEBAGO (A0 81). The WICHITA (CA 45), escorted by the NICHOLSON, joined our group, from TG 38.2. The McCALL joined as well. We went alongside the "E" to get some pilots via hi-line, to transfer them to a the SITKOH BAY (CVE 86) that had just arrived. These pilots were going to fly the replacement planes to the large carriers. We also went alongside the SWANSON to get mail. During the period Oct 7-21, we fired 76- 5" (mostly MK 32)(proximity fuse), 350 -40MM, 540- 20MM. 6 Jap planes were knocked down by AA fire, mostly by 40/20MM. Our F/D radar continued to be unreliable. 1500, with refueling done, we were going to meet with TF 38.

22nd- 0100, our TG joined up with TF 38. A can came alongside and gave us 7 bags of mail-a nice treat. The carriers launched and recovered planes all day (heavy air ops). 23rd.- More heavy air ops. Early in the morning we refueled from the FRANKLIN. As we were alongside, we suddenly lost power. We parted oil hoses and lines-what a mess. We were in a very dangerous situation, no power and in the middle of the TG. Fortunately it turned out OK. Some how water got into the fuel oil and shut down the boilers. There were some changes in our TG. It was now: FRANKLIN, "E", BELLEAU WOODS, SAN JACINTO, WASHINGTON (BB 56)(F)(ComBatPac), ALABAMA (BB 60), WICHITA (F) (ComCruDiv 6), NEW ORLEANS, DesDiv 100 -- COGSWELL (DD 651), CAPERTON (DD 650), INGERSOLL (DD 652), KNAPP (DD653), DesDiv 24 (less GRAYSON). The GRAYSON was assigned to TG 38.1. During the morning, the BILOXI was detached from TG 38.4, escorted by the NICHOLSON, joined TG 38.1. Our TG got orders to go to Ulithi for supplies, fuel, repairs. 1130, our TG get new orders from Com 3rd Flt to reverse course and head for Samar, to arrive a daylight, on the 24th. All cans refueled. 2120, HELMS rejoined.

24th- 0600, we all arrived on station SE of Samar Is. Our carrier planes flew heavy strikes against targets on Leyte in support of our ground forces. 0900, our planes reported contact with a Jap surface fleet of 4 BB's, 8 CA, 10 DD's, between Mindoro and Tablas Islands, headed north. Our carriers immediately launched heavy strikes -torpedo and dive bombers-against these ships. At this time we were the blocking force between the Jap Fleet and the Philippines. We continue repeated strikes all day. Then another group of enemy ships were sighted. They are attacked as well. The WILKES was the communication link between the TG's. We were out of sight of both TG's-pretty lonesome all by ourselves. We were at GQ all day. Our planes reported good results in their bombing of the enemy fleet. 1130, the SAN JACINTO planes shot down 2 Jakes near the TG. Another enemy TF was located and more air strikes were rained down on them. TF 38.2 joined with us, at 1615. TG 38.3 joined up at 2330. TF 38 was in one unit again. We were all going North at 25 kts to intercept the Jap Fleet. Admiral Halsey was now in tactical command. Shortly after 2000, Admiral Halsey (himself) came on the TBS, saying, "This is BLACKJACK himself, Battleships form battle line." The 6 battleships and cruisers, with their escorting DD's, were ordered to form battle disposition -10 miles ahead of the TG 38.3. All headed North towards the enemy fleet.

25th- 0300, TF 34 was formed and the carriers and their screen were left behind. BB's, CA, CL, DD's chased after the enemy fleet. 0600, heavy strikes were launched against the enemy ships. 0730, Jap Fleet reported 140 miles away and more planes were launched. 1215, our scout planes reported the enemy was retiring. Our surface ships finished off the cripples. 1530, our group moved South to hit the enemy that attacked TF 77. During this time, we lost the PRINCETON (CVL 23) and SAINT LO (CVE 63), who were not in our TG. The BIRMINGHAM (CL 62) was badly damaged, when it was alongside the burning PRINCETON, taking off its crew, the PRINCETON's magazine blew up. Many men were killed and wounded. Later, the PRINCETON was ordered sunk, as it was tying up the TG trying to help it. We lost 50 planes, overall. This was a small price to pay for such an overwhelming victory. HISTORY WAS MADE THIS DAY. IT WAS ANOTHER TRUE TURNING POINT IN THE WAR.

26th-We all had to refuel-starting at 0800. We refueled from the ATASCOSA. The NEW ORLEANS and WICHITA, escorted by the PATTERSON and BAGLEY rejoined out TG. After all ships refueled, our Division was relieved from the TG by DesDiv 120 and we joined TU 30.8.11, for temporary duty. This TU consisted of: PECOS, NANTAHALA, ATASCOSA, CAHABA, TOMAHAWK, MARIAS, SAUGATUCK, CACHE, HENLEY (F), CTG 30.8, escorts: DesDiv 24, less GRAYSON, NEHENTA BAY (CVE 74), TAYLOR, (DD-468), ELDEN (DE-264), HILBERT (DE 742), WEAVER (DE-41), REYNOLDS. (DE-41). 1640, we went on night time picket duty. During the period Oct 21-26, we fired 49-5", 310-40MM, 420-20MM. Our assignment, as communication link, went smoothly. After being relieved, we and the SWANSON escorted the 9 tankers and 1 CVE back to Uluthi, where we arrived on the 29th. We had orders for our Division to report to the FIFTH FLEET, TF 57. This was our first visit there. While in port, we gave the crew liberty. We did painting and routine work on the ship, which we had not been able to do for sometime. The port was crowded with ships of all kinds. Everyone was amazed at the facilities available in such a short time, since our invasion in Sept. The 2 air strips were fully operational and planes were coming and going-non stop. They had ball fields, swimming beaches, beer gardens and "O" club, among other amenities. Everyone was delighted to be on solid land again, after being at sea to long. Our old TG commander reported that his ships (us) were continuously at sea for 64 days, except for 3 1/2 days in Seeadler Harbor. That must be some sort of a record!!!

NOVEMBER 1944

1st- Uluthi--We took on ammo, stores, fuel and then moored alongside the SWANSON. The Commodore was still on the SWANSON. CDS 12, (CTG 57.6) our boss, was Capt W. Burford. While we were in Uluthi, the FRANKLIN came in port, very badly damaged by a suicide attack. If we aren't mistaken, this was the first of many Kamikaze attacks. The BELLEAU WOOD also came in, with the rest of TG 38.4. She was badly damaged by a torpedo hit. Both ships were hit after we left the TG. 2nd- The SWANSON got underway and left the harbor. 3rd- The NICK (CTU 57.18.18) and we got underway and escorted SO. AFRICA VICTORY, JEAN LA FITTE, CAPE MARTIN (Liberty ships) to Guam. 4th- We arrived in Apra Harbor, Guam. Our old friend, the ROE was SOPA. We both refueled from the MANILENO (IX-141). Enemy planes came over and bombed the harbor-nothing near us. We went to GQ and patrolled outside, escorting COBANA, DUFFY (DE -27), ROE, NICK. 5th-With the air attacks over, we anchored inside the nets. 8th-0545, we got underway for Seeadler, escorting the TERROR (CM-5), a mine layer. On the way, the TERROR had engine troubles and we were delayed a day. On the 10th, we re-crossed the equator, going South. 11th- Arrived Seeadler and refueled from the SILVER CLOUD (IX-143). The day before (the 10th), a Betty bombed the area. It hit an ammo ship (MT HOOD AE-11), which exploded. The only survivors were on a working party ashore. The explosion badly damage a nearby Army transport, resulting in many killed and wounded. Several other ships anchored nearby by were also heavily damaged.

(ED. Note: If we had been on schedule, we could have been alongside or nearby the MT HOOD, when it blew up.) Lots of rain lately.

12th- Underway for Guam-alone. Did a lot of drills, including GQ. 15-20th- Anchored in the Apra Harbor and refueled from the MANILENO. However we did got out for patrol duty on the 19th. 20th-back inside and moored alongside the DEMPSEY (DE-26) and STADTFELD (DE-29). There were rumors that many Jap soldiers were still hiding out in the hills, inside the many caves. There were many wrecked enemy planes around the air fields. We got caught up on routine ship's work. 21st-We got underway with the NICK escorting 3 Liberty ships SS GEORGE VANCOUVER, W.C. RALSTON, CAPE SAN BLAS), (convoy GE-29) for Eniwetok. Then to Pearl, then SEATTLE (HOME). 23rd- We had a fine turkey Thanksgiving dinner, with all the fixings. Holiday routine. All hands were working on polishing shoes and washing clothes. We all wanted to look sharp on leave and liberty. 26th- Arrived Eniwetok. Refueled from a tanker, anchored. 27th-liberty. We beat the NICK in a softball game. It was the first game in many months. 28-

30th- Liberty and the usual ship routine.

DECEMBER 1944

1st-We left Eniwetok, escorting the WICHITA and the POCOMOKE (AV 9) to Pearl. En route we encountered a lot of rough weather. We started to pick up radio stations from Pearl and they sounded good. On the 4th we crossed the International Date Line at 16 degrees-7' N, and had to repeat the day, and we were in a big hurry to get HOME. 8th- (TWO YEARS AND ONE DAY AFTER DEC 7 1941), We arrived in Pearl and immediately refueled from a tanker. Then we moored alongside the CRAVEN and NICK, who arrived on the 6th. The harbor was full of ships, including the SARATOGA. We had to take on warm clothing, no more tropics for awhile. The islands looked beautiful, the first American soil in a very long time. We got a lot of mail. It had finally caught up with us. 9th- 1230, we got underway and waited outside for the WICHITA and POCOMOKE to join us. 10th-13th- We ran into very rough seas, high wind.

13th- We left the WICHITA and POCOMOKE , who proceeded to San Pedro. We headed for Seattle. Our ETA was about 0200 on the 16th. The ship's laundry finally quit working, so everyone had to wash their own dirty clothes. 15th- Payday. Almost everyone had a lot of money on the "books". 2145, we entered Puget Sound, a truly beautiful sight (CONUS). 2300, we took on a pilot to take us through the Straits of Juan de Fuca. A pilot was really needed for that trip, the fog was very thick and the straits tortuous. He had the ship's bridge watch blowing the whistle (fog horn), almost continuously. 16th- We arrived in Seattle about 0400. 0500, an engineering inspection party from Todd came on board, to see what engineering work was needed. It was still foggy-as usual. Prior to going into the Yard, we had to off-load torpedoes, at one depot and then ammo at another. All hands worked very hard. We were going to have our work done in a private shipyard- Todd Ship Yard. We tied up in the yard. 1600, LEAVE & LIBERTY- HOME AT LAST !!!!! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!!

OVERHAUL--SEATTLE

Prior to getting into Seattle, all leave and liberty schedules were worked out-especially the leaves. Those, who had been on board the longest, got the first leave (20 days), and they would be home for CHRISTMAS and NEW YEARS. The second section's leave would start about Jan 9th. The main thing, we would be in the STATES. As usual, the first thing that had to be done, was the repair conference with the shipyard people. We were set for a 42 day overhaul, and to get up to date equipment. In the year we had been away, the Navy had developed many improved versions of our equipment. Our stuff was obsolete. We got a all new set of radars and our CIC and chart house were improved. All new and improved sonar unit was installed, along with a new type depth charge. The engineering plant was completely overhauled and the boilers cleaned and re-tubed. We went into dry dock, where a new sonar dome was installed, the hull was cleaned, and the ship painted from top to bottom.

Since the ship was torn up, it was impossible for the crew to live on board. They were moved into a barracks in the Yard. Those not on leave had to return to the ship each morning to work. However most of the work was being done by the civilians. But, the people on the "Graveyard" shift, didn't seem very well motivated-just like in NY. Transportation from the yard into town was a problem. There was a city bus, and a few taxi cabs, but it was too far from town to walk. We did get a car for official business that could be used for essential trips. It was nice to have, as we had to transport our crew and equipment around the area.

The repair work went well and on schedule. When the Yard was done, the ship looked and smelled like brand new. We got some new officers and men, and some of the old friends were transferred off the ship. Shortly before we left town, the ship had a big dance for all hands and most blew off a lot of "steam". There was no way to tell when we'd see the STATES again.

END IN SIGHT/OUR SECOND TOUR

1945-THE FATEFUL YEAR

JANUARY 1945

The New Year brought many changes. CDD 24 was now CDR Robert Brodie, Jr. but Capt Burford was still CDS 12. Commodore Brodie had been CO of several DD's. As CO of the DALLAS, in the invasion of North Africa, he won the Navy Cross. From the first to the 25th, Todd was finishing up their work as the month progressed. On the 26th- we were ready for our post repair sea trials, to see just how good the job was. Unfortunately we got a hot bearing in the after LP (low pressure) turbine and had to return to the Yard. It was worked on and at 0600 the next day, we went on a full power run, that was successful. The 28th- We had some more minor work done. 29th- We got underway at 0830 for the degaussing range and to calibrate the degaussing gear. Every time a ship underwent major hull repair, it's magnetic field was changed. So to protect itself against magnetic mines, the ship had to determine its new magnetic characteristics and make new charts, settings, etc. We then went to Keyport to get our new torpedoes, Then to Sinclair Inlet for our full load of ammo. That was a full days job, an all hands evolution. On the 30th, we underway at 0600 to Indian Is to load depth charges. Then to New Dungeness to calibrate the RDF. Then to NSD (Naval Supply Depot), to take on stores and provisions, which took the next 2 days.

FEBRUARY 1945

The first, we were still loading stores, etc., getting the ship, SHIP -SHAPE. We calibrating the radars and radio equipment. WE ARE READY TO GO. 2nd-0800, we got underway with the NICK (who also got the same repair job as ours), to meet with the our old friend, FRANKLIN, to escort her to Frisco. However shortly after we started the NICK hit her starboard screw on a submerged log and had to go back to the Yard. 1330, we met the FRANKLIN off Swiftsure light ship, and we both proceeded to Frisco, at 20 kts. The next day, the carrier planes towed sleeves so both ships could get in some AA firing practice.

(Ed Note: The FRANKLIN received a huge suicide plane hit, just after we left the TG and had come back to the States for major repair. Now we both were on the way out again.)

4th-On our way to Frisco, we ran into a lot of rough seas and wind. All the "newcomers" were sea sick, as well as some of the "old timers", who had been away from the sea too long. 5th- 1130, we anchored off Pier 54, Frisco, where we did some more repair work, took on more stores and fuel. On the 7th, we both got underway at 1500, headed for PEARL.

8-13th- both ships (FRANKLIN) were en route to PEARL. The NICK was to join us, but got other orders. Every day, both ships conducted extensive AA practice. The carrier planes towed the sleeves. Lots of GQ practice, plus our regular routine of cleaning, etc. 15th- We both arrived 1130 and we moored to buoy D-2. 14th-We got underway and was a target for torpedo planes from the FRANKLIN. We aligned our Mk 4 and MK 22 radars. On completion, we went back into PEARL and moored alongside the HARRY HUBBARD (DD-748), a brand new can. 15th-(TU 19.1.2), with the NICK we were underway at 0700, to escort a new carrier, the SHANGRI-LA (CV-38). We practiced AA firing, the carrier conducted flight ops. 1730, a Helldiver trying to land on the carrier, went over the side. We rescued the pilot. 16th-0730, we hi-lined the pilot back to the carrier, and got our usual reward-ice cream. More flight ops, AA firing, until 1830. 17th-0700, more flight ops, and we were the plane guard. 1700, we got an emergency call to pick up a sick man from a merchant ship (SS FALLEN TIMBER), at 15N, 152W. We went at 31 kts. On the way we tried out our new flash eliminators for the 40MM guns. They worked well, reducing the flash a great deal. 18th-0907, we sighted the tanker and at 1000, we hi-lined Dr. Wyatt to her. He examined the sick man, Fred N. Frazier, an oiler. We hi-lined the Dr back, along with the sick man. We then went back to Hilo at 30 kts, while our doctor worked on the ill man. 19th- 1140, we transferred the sick man to the hospital. Hopefully he made a full recovery. 20th-23rd-We were moored alongside the NICK at Pearl.

24th- 0710, we and the NICK got underway, for more AA practice. 0900, we started torpedo firing practice, we had some students from the torpedo school (Pearl) on board, to observe how "it is done in the Fleet". 1510, the KINGFISHER (ATO-135) towed targets for both of us. Then we went back into Pearl to drop off the students and then back out to the NICK. From the 25-26th, we both did extensive AA, surface firing, both day and night. We also exercised with PT boats. This was good training for both. 26th- We again do more AA firing and shore bombardment exercise. 1900, we met up with the MARYLAND (BB-46), and both did night shore firing. Then again on the 27th and

28th, we all did shore firing, from early morning until late at night. 29th-back into Pearl.

MARCH 1945

lst- We were underway with the NICK at 0630 to do ASW training with the SPEARFISH (SS-190). 1600, we got word a plane was down 28 miles from Barber's Point. We searched all night for the pilot-no luck. 2nd-0600, the search was called off and we then did more torpedo training with the NICK. However it was much too rough to fire the "fish", so in the afternoon, we both went back into Pearl and moored. 3rd-All hands got up at 0130 to load 700 rounds of 5" for the gunnery exercise for the next 5 days. 0800, both ships got underway to plane guard for the SHANGRI-LA, and for AA gunnery firing. 4th - We were still with the carrier and 0700, she started flight ops. 1000, she lost a man over board. The NICK recovered him safely. It was a miracle as the sea was extremely rough. 5th-More carrier ops all day. 6th and 7th-More carrier ops all day. The sea continued to be very rough. The NICK hi-lined the man back to the carrier. 8th- We finished with the carrier and went back into Pearl. 1845-WE HAVE A CHANGE OF COMMAND CEREMONY. There is another big change in our lives, a NEW CO. LCDR HERBERT ROMMEL, relieved LCDR FRED McENTIRE.

On the 9th, we were underway at 1330, along with the NICK, escorting the NEW MEXICO (BB-40) to Ulithi. Our new CO had hardly time to stow his gear, and no time to get acquainted with his crew and they with him, before we got underway for WestPac. We were now in TU 12.5.17, and proceeded Westward at 18 kts. On the way, we did a lot of AA firing practice. The BB's planes towed sleeves for all to fire at. 13th- We crossed the International Date Line and dropped a day. 15th- Both cans tried to refuel from the NEW MEXICO. They gave us ice cream and pies, also new (for us) movies. We got fuel but the NICK couldn't, due to rough seas. Refueling from an old battleship was very tricky, as they had a large anti-torpedo bulge below the water-line. The CO had to keep well away from it. So the next day the NICK had to go into Eniwetok for fuel, and later rejoined us. 17th-We all did more AA firing at sleeves. We had a "bad luck day", which was most unusual for us. 2 of our crew were hurt in rather freak accidents. Mike Russo was hurt when a torpedo mount turned and crushed his foot. Fortunately it wasn't serious. Later, Goetz, the electrician got shocked, burned and broke his left leg. 18th-19th-More AA firing and we were still escorting the NEW MEXICO. 20th-We arrived Ulitihi at 0730 and refueled from the MANTAHALA, then to the IRAN VICTORY to take on ammo. By 1730, we were finished and anchored.

21st- 1700, we got underway with the DE GRASSE (AK-223), escorting her to Guam. The NICK stayed in Ulithi. 22nd- About 1515, we got emergency orders to look for downed airmen 90 miles, bearing 30 degrees T. We went at 30 kts arriving on the scene at 1900. We searched all night, using our 36 inch searchlight and flares. No luck. To complicate matters, our fresh water evaporators broke down and we were without fresh water for 2 days. Since the boilers have the utmost priority on our fresh water, the crew, including the cooks didn't have any fresh water to use. To further complicate our search, the seas are very rough for the next 3 days. We spent the entire day and night of the 23rd, along with 6 planes, searching-no luck. 24th- we were persistent, along with 6 planes, which came back at first light. When we searched for downed pilots, we took the last best position, as the basic starting point. With our navigation skills, we could pin point our exact position. We then searched in grids, ever expanding from the original position (fix). So we and the planes, who did the same, covered many hundreds of square miles of sea. 0850, a search plane from our group, spotted a raft 42 miles from us, bearing 018 degrees true. We took off at 25 kts and at 1045, we recovered 4 airmen. They told us that there was another plane down about 2 miles away. We and the 6 planes continued our search all day and all night, until 1500 on the 25th, when we got orders to give up the search. The 4 men were in good condition, except for sun burn. This pointed out the extraordinary measures, the US, took to recover/rescue its downed air crews. When a crew ditched, they could rest assured great effort would be used to rescue them from the sea.

On our search, we saw 2 floating mines, we fired on both, sank one, but not the other. 26th- 0915 we arrived in Guam, dropped off the 4 airmen and refueled from the MANILENO (IX-141). We moored alongside the MANLOVE (DE-36). Last Nov, we moored alongside the same DE. We had some trouble with the projector head of our sonar gear and had to go into dry-dock in the ARD 26 on the 30th. Vibration of the ship had loosened the projector and it had to be replaced. We got this projector new during our overhaul in Seattle. We were looking forward to getting some mail. However our mail was in Saipan, so all hands were disappointed. Some of our crew had friends on the DE, so they visited them. Liberty was given to 1 section and we got up our usual softball game-Deck Div Vs "E" Div. Deck Div won. A good time was had by all. The next day- more liberty-another softball game. "C" Div beat the "O" Div. While we were in dry-dock, all hands worked on scrapping and painting the ship's bottom. Even though it was done in Seattle, the bottom got fouled quickly. Every chance, we scrapped and painted. WE got out of dry-dock at 1630 on the 30th and moored. During this time the SWANSON and LITCHFIELD (DD-336) came in the harbor. Just before we left. we did get some mail, which pleased all hands.

APRIL 1945

1st-We were now a unit of TF 94, Admiral John Hoover, Commanding. The GRAYSON was now the flagship of CDD-24 This was Easter Sunday, with holiday routine and the crew welcomed a chance to rest up after 2 days of hard scrapping and painting. We heard that the ROE had been badly hit, with some wounded. 2300, we got underway for Saipan, arriving 0700, the next day. We refueled from the FLAMBEAU (IX-192) and anchored. Until the 4th, we took on stores, etc., and reported to CTU 94.7.2 for duty. 4th-0610, we got underway with the CETUS (AK-77), and DE GRASSE escorting them to Uluthi, We were the OTC. On the way we conducted AA drills. 5th-the same. 6th-We all arrived Ulithi at 0730 and we anchored near the PRAIRIE to get spare parts. There were 7 DD's anchored in the harbor, all badly damaged by Kamikaze's. The RINGOLD (DD-500) was the most seriously hurt. 1245, we got underway escorting SS ELMIRA VICTORY to Saipan. On the way the next day, we came across the GILMORE (DE-18) with a sonar contact. We stopped to "help". It was negative. So we continued on to Saipan, entering at 1645 and going alongside the FLAMBEAU for fuel.

8th-10th- We anchored and got our long overdo mail, but most welcome. We did routine up-keep, took on stores.

11th-0300, we got emergency orders to get underway to search for downed aircrew. We were underway in 30 minutes and by 0630 we were at the given position, searching. Planes were already searching in the area. 0930, we picked up an oxygen tank from a B-29, along with some other debris. We looked all day and most of the night. 12th-0215, we got orders to stop searching and return to port. We entered 0530 and refueled from the FLAMBEAU.

13th- CDR Brodie, CDD 24, moved his flag from the GRAYSON to us. From the 13th-24th, we were anchored at various berths. We gave liberty to 1 section each day. All enjoyed the liberty and beer. The Deck Div beat the "E", "C", "R" and "S" Divisions at softball. They are the CHAMPS. We got our mail during this time. 13th-We got word of President Roosevelt's death. It was a big shock to all. Everyone wondered about the new President Truman and how this would effect the war? The 15th was a Sunday and holiday routine due the President's death. Then more routine ship's work, with the crew painting all the topside. The ship looked great-like new. It was just in time for our 4th birthday (Sunday the 22nd). We had photos taken of the entire crew on the foc'sl. To celebrate the event, we had a special dinner-turkey and ham with all the fixings. Then in the evening, we had a "show" on the fantail, by ship's personal. Then a movie. Almost a perfect day. All we needed was being HOME!!! The next day, the Deck Div beat the officers and chiefs in softball. In the evening, Capt Rommel talked to all hands, telling us we were getting underway early the next morning and what we could expect in the future. 25th-We were underway at 0730, with the GRAYSON, following us, going for AA practice. Shortly after 1300, the GRAYSON had a premature 5' shell burst, close aboard. 1 man was killed, 8 wounded, a very bad accident. She took off for port at top speed. We also came back into port and refueled. 26th-We drew more stores, supplies, got mail, Some Army nurses came onboard for dinner in the wardroom, saw a movie and then back ashore. 27th-1700, we got underway, The Commodore was CTU 94.19.10, escorting the DORTHEA DIX, GASPER, SS EXCHANGE, SS SEA BASS, with the PORTERFIELD (DD-682) and GENDREAU (DE-639) to Okinawa, arriving on the first.

OKINAWA

MAY 1945

lst- We made landfall 0900 on Okinawa and left the convoy, refueling from the SARANAC (A0-74) and escorted her to Haguski Harbor. We then got ordered from CTG 51.5 to picket station B-24, which was near the south point of the island. The NICK was with us on picket station. 3rd - Both ships were still on picket duty. 1015, we got orders to a new station B-6. All this time we saw lots of bogies on the SC radar screen-none come close. 1840, we heard on the TBS, the AARON WARD (DM-34) was under severe attack by Kamikaze's in picket station #10. She was very badly damaged in these attacks. She got hit by 5 and shot down 2. The LITTLE (DD-803) was sunk. The weather was bad-cold and rainy. We could see and hear the BB's, CL's and DD's shelling the beaches.

4th- GQ started at 0135, with a RED ALERT-we fired 41 5". 0500, we sighted flares from a downed PBM. We went to her at 25 kts and 0645, took her under tow. 0800, the SUISUN (AVP-53) relieved us and towed the plane back to Kerama Retto. 1000, sank a floating mine. 1230, we were relieved by the FINNEGAN (DE-307) and got orders to radar picket station# 12, along with the WILEY (DD-597, arriving at 1600. On this station we also had LCS 84, 81,118, LSM 199, PGM 9. 2115, the BROWN (DD- 547) relieved the WILEY. CDD was the OTC. The 4th was a busy day. The day before a DD on this station was sunk. We were on the North side of Okinawa, only 240 miles from the Home Islands. The LUCE (DD 552), MORRISON (DD-560), LSM 190, 194 were sunk on picket duty nearby. 5th-GQ-0150 low flying bogey, we fired on it. We then heard a underwater explosion. 1545, we all went into the Special AA Defense formation, with the small landing craft as the guide. In an AA attack, the DD's maneuvered at high speed, making radical course changes, keeping the landing craft between the Kamikaze planes and the DD's. This provided maximum AA support. The DD's went in a circle formation, rather than trying to maintain formal station keeping. Lots of bogies at night. We were at GQ most of the time. 6th- 0205 more bogies-GQ. 0345, fired at a bogey at 5 miles, fired 53 5", 24 40MM -no results. Lots of bogies-none close. Some dropped "windows." Windows were usually long ribbon like strips of Aluminum or some other reflective material, used to try to confuse the air search radar operators. 0830, a "Tony" crashed 15 ft off starboard bow of BROWN-no damage-very lucky. It has been shot down by a F4U in our CAP, and it tried to crash the BROWN. We had CAP overhead all day. We accidentally fired 41-40MM at the F4U. We were still having problems with our MK 4, fire control radar. 1200, our whole group was got relieved and returned to Kerama Retto. We refueled from the WHIPPET (IX-129). Then we anchored. We had been at GQ for 42 hours out of the last 48 hours. Everyone was dead tired. We had more Red Alerts-no problems. 7th-anchored-several Red Alerts- GQ-no problems. 8-9th-still anchored, more Red Alerts-GQ's. The "cans" made smoke inside the harbor to protect the ships at anchor. 8th-was a half holiday to mark "V-E" Day. We were half done, (2 down -1 to go). We took on ammo and rested the crew. The CO inspected the ship, it looked fine.

10th-More air raids. 1200, we got underway with the MAKIN IS. (CVE-93) and the WOODWORTH to meet with TU 52.1.1. We arrived at sunset. 2115, FANSHAW BAY escorted by RICHARD BULL (DE-402) and SAMUEL MOORE (DD-747) left the TU. Our TU consisted of: NATOMA BAY (CVE-62), SHAMROCK BAY (CVE-84), SHIPLEY BAY (CVE-85), PETROF BAY (CVE-80), MAKIN IS, SARGENT BAY (CVE-83), FANSHAW BAY (CVE-70). The escorts were: WILKES, BAGLEY, CAPPS (CDS 46)(screen commander), SAMUEL L. MILES, WOODWORTH, HELM, L.C. TAYLOR, JOHN HENLEY, R.S. BULL (DE-402). There were 17 ships, including tankers in our unit. 11th- 1300, we finished taking mail to all ships and resumed our screen station. The carriers started flight ops. Our planes bombed Kioui Shima, an island about 110 miles north of Formosa. 1530, 2 of our planes collided over the TU and crashed into the sea. The escorts rescued both pilots. 1930, SHIPLEY BAY and L.C. TAYLOR left the TU. 2115, FANSHAW BAY escorted by the MILES AND BULL leave. 12th- The weather was getting bad with high seas. Carriers conducted routine flight ops. 0700, HOGGATT BAY and FLEMING (DE-32) join. 1515, Red Alert-GQ-no problem. 1930, FANSHAW BAY and MILES and BULL return. 13th-More flight ops from the carriers. ComScreen was now CDD 46. 0800, we fueled from the HOGGATT BAY. They gave us bread, potatoes, ice cream and movies. Our food supplies were very low. 1445, KELLER joined the screen. We heard on the TBS that the HUGH HADLEY and NEW MEXICO were hit by Kamikazes. 14th-Our carrier planes flew continuous strikes against Nansei Shoto. We were the blocking force between Formosa and Okinawa. We were plane guarding., during launching and recovery. 2200, PETROF BAY, MILES,CAPPS, FLEMING left the TG.

15th-Our planes again launch continuous strikes against Nansei Shoto. The carriers were either launching or recovering planes all day.1530, a F4F crashed near the SARGENT BAY, the KELLER picked up the pilot. 1930, MAKIN ISLAND and HILO (APG-2), along with the SARGENT BAY and BULL left. Bogies were around all day, but nothing real close. 16th-0500, NATRONA BAY, KELLER, WOODWORTH left. 0530, we met with TU 50.8.2 (tanker unit). 0600, we refueled from the MONONGAHELA (AO-42). 1430, The NICK sank a mine. All ships were finished refueling by 1700 and the tankers and their escorts left. When the carriers were not taking on fuel, they conducted air strikes and recovery of their planes. 17th- Our carriers again launched air strikes against Nansei Shoto. 0945, we rescued the pilot and 2 crewmen of a TBM from the SHIPLEY BAY. 1010, hi-lined the crew back to the carrier. They gave us 10 gal of ice cream, in return-fair enough. More bogies, but none near. We were scheduled to go to Retto Shima for fuel, mail and supplies. As usual, we were down to spuds, spaghetti and canned peaches.

18th-Early in the AM, we heard the FOX (DD 829) had been hit by a suicide plane, last night, while on picket duty. Our trip back to Kerama Retto was canceled. Our carriers launched air strikes all day. 1115, ROBERTS sank a mine. 1930, SHIPLEY BAY, MILES left and at 2130, NATRONA BAY, NICK, ROBERTS left. They all were going to Kerama Retto for fuel and supplies. 19th-More early air strikes from the carriers. 0500, BAGLEY rescued a pilot from the HOGGATT BAY. 1915, NEHENTA BAY and SNYDER left. There was another carrier TG about 4 miles west of us. They had 8 DD's for escorts. Their planes and ours joined in patrolling (CAP). 20th- More carrier strikes. 0545, NATRONA BAY, NICK, ROBERTS were back. 1200, NICK passed us mail. It was nice to have something to read from home. 1300, in a break in carrier ops, we fueled from the MAKIN IS. 21st- Our TU carriers started launching at 0545, which made for another very long day. 0700, the GILBERT IS. joined up. Our weather was getting bad, high seas and wind.

22nd- Bad weather. 0800, TULAGI (CVE -72) and INGERSOLL (DD-652) join. 0900, we got a good sonar contact, and went to GQ. The NICK and KELLER assisted us. We made several attacks and dropped 42- MK4 Mod2, depth charges. The NICK made 2 runs, but on their second charges didn't explode. Also while firing their "K" guns, there was a mal-function and 3 men were seriously hurt and another 3 had minor injuries. The KELLER relieved the NICK. but lost sonar contact. Our CO thought we had made a "kill", as the contact remained stationery at 500 feet. However, there was no way of confirming it. 1730, we rejoined the carriers, and then took off outgoing mail. 2200, we left the TU, escorting the MAKIN IS. for Kerama Retto. 23rd-We entered port and 0830, refueled from the CUYAMA (AO-3). Then alongside the LST 812, to take on depth charges. We took on mail for all ships in our TU, however, there was none for us. We seemed to be jinxed. 1700, we left port with the MAKIN IS.

24th-0620, we both rejoin the TU and we deliver mail to all ships, until 1800. Hi-lining is hard work and tough on the deck gang. It is also hard on the CO, who has to guide the ship alongside the carriers and cans. This was not a job for the faint hearted. We also went over to TG 52.3 to hi-line them a passenger. 1820-FANSHAW BAY and BAGLEY left. 25th-More early air strikes against Nansei Shoto. 0430- a DE in TG 52.3 attacked and sank a sub. Perhaps it was the one, we attacked on the 22nd? 1900, PETROF BAY and WANTUCK (APD-125) left. 26th- 0615, our TU met with the tankers (TU 50.18.92). 1000, we started to refuel from the ESCLANTE. (AO 70). 1610, CAPPS (CDS 46)(Screen Commander) got a sonar contact-no luck. Our carriers launched air strikes, when not refueling. We practiced 40 and 20MM firing. During the training, one of the 20mm guns jammed-not unusual. It backfired and Paul Craig got a finger hurt. Luckily it was not serious. Doc Wyatt fixed him up in short order. The radio reported more heavy raids on Okinawa pickets. They reported 12 DD/DE hit-none sunk.

27th-More carrier strikes-launching and recovery, all day long. 1930, HOGGATT BAY, CAMPBELL, HELM left. We got the word that Commander Third Fleet relieved Commander Fifth Fleet. We are now TU 32.1.1.-back in the THIRD FLEET again, one of BULL HALSEY'S ships. 28th- We heard about more heavy air raids on Okinawa and the pickets. The Kamikaze's were really throwing everything possible at our ships. Ships returned. During the day, our carriers conducted routine carrier strikes. 1700, TULAGI, GOSS, CAMPBELL left. 29th-Every 3 days a carrier and DD/DE rotate going back to Kerama Retto for fuel, supplies and mail. 0600-HOGGATT BAY and escorts return. We have not had any mail in over a month. Everyone is pretty unhappy about no mail..1730, WOODWORTH and SALAMAUA (CVE-96) collided while refueling. There was considerable damage to the bridge of the can. She got caught under the flight deck. 2130, NATRONA BAY, WOODWORTH, HENLEY left. 30th- 0000, RALPH TALBOT rejoined the TU. 0730, NEHANTA BAY, ROBERTS also rejoin. We had an unusually heavy, low-lying fog that hampers air ops. We heard, 2 more DD pickets hit, but none sunk. On the radio, we could hear the heavy enemy air raids. 1340, we refueled from the WAKE IS. 1840, we went alongside and hi-lined radar parts to the HOGGATT BAY. We heard that 2 more DD pickets were hit- 1 sunk.

31st- NATRONA BAY, HENLEY got back to the unit. HENLEY passed mail to all, then at 1015, she broke down, then had to go into Kerama Retto for repairs. 1230, the HELMS broke down. This was bad day for the escorts. 2130, GILBERT IS, ROBERTS left for Kerama Retto.

JUNE 1945

1st-We were still with TU 32.1.1, under CTG 32.1 under the command of Rear Admiral Calvin Durgin. The carriers continued flight ops of assault Okinawa and Nansei Shoto. 1930, MAKIN IS, ROBERTS left. 2nd- 0500, continuos flight ops started. Also the SARGENT BAY, BULL returned. 1900, MAKIN IS. and RALPH TALBOT left. 3rd- 0930, we refueled from the SHAMROCK BAY. Flight ops all day. 1800, SALAMAUA and BULL departed. The weather was quite bad. 4th-0530, we met with our refueling unit-TU 30.18.15. 0615, WAKE IS., RALPH TALBOT rejoined. 0740, we started to refuel from the COSSATOT (AO-77). 1100, they also passed us (hi-lined) meat, bacon, eggs and new movies. The food was greatly appreciated, as we needed it badly. 1100, TALBOT delivered mail. It is our first mail in 38 days. That must be a new record for NO MAIL. 1300, LUNGA POINT (CVE-94), BULL rejoined. The weather continued to be very bad. There was a typhoon nearby. 5th- Our unit retired to the SE to miss the typhoon, which passed to the West on a Northerly course. However, we got knocked around pretty good. It was impossible to eat, sleep or work. We had 30 cases of potatoes, which were stored on the main deck, washed overboard. We needed all the food we had. 6th-The weather moderated and the typhoon passed-no damage to our unit. Everyone was now able to resume their normal work, also eat and sleep. 1000, we have AA practice. 1100, we sunk a floating mine. 2000, WOODWORTH, CAPP left the unit. The Commodore was now ComScreen.

7th- The carriers launch air strikes against Saki Shima, Nansei Shoto, starting at 0430. We were now 50 miles, NE of Formosa. 0630, 2 Kamikaze planes came in undetected. One hit the flight deck of the NATRONA BAY, causing a big fire. The carrier was able to put it out and continue flight ops. The other plane strafed the SARGENT BAY and then crashed into the sea. There were bogies around all day-none close. GQ often. 1800, a can came alongside and hi-lined us MAIL (34 bags). All hands enjoyed their letters and packages. It is very nice to get letters from our loved ones. 2000, NEHENTA BAY, BULL left for port. 8th-More carrier air strikes against Okinawa, starting very early. 1330, we refueled from the SARGENT BAY. 2000, SARGENT BAY, NICK left for port. 9th-0530, NEHENTA BAY, BULL returned. Our carriers continue their daily air attacks. 1040, the BULL came alongside and hi-lined mail to us. We are finally getting the back logged mail. 1900, SNYDER left. 2015, NICK back. 10th-More air ops against the enemy. 0900- SHAMROCK BAY, BULL returned. 1000, NICK passed us mail. We are finally getting caught up with our mail. 2000, SNYDER back. 11th-0600, DENNIS back. 0600, WOODWORTH sunk a mine. 1430, TALBOT passed mail to us. More carrier ops all day. Our TU was scheduled to go into Kerama Shima, but our orders were changed.

12th- Our carriers launched air strikes, from early morning until night, hitting Okinawa. 0715, TALBOT sunk a mine. 1845, PATTERSON rejoined. 13th-0700-We met with our tanker refueling unit (TU 30.8.11). 1030, we started to refuel from the CHICOPEE (AO-34). 1545, WAKE IS. lost a man overboard. The HELMS rescued him. He was most lucky, as there was a heavy sea running. CTG 32.1 was now in the NATRONA BAY (OTC). 2130, HOGGATT BAY, TALBOT left.

14th-As usual-air strikes, early in the morning. 1530, a plane crashed ahead of the formation. The HELMS went out and rescued all 3 crew men. 1900, HOGGATT BAY, TALBOT back. 2230, SARGENT BAY, WOODWORTH left. 15th-HELMS left at 0000. More air ops, all day. 0800, HOGGATT BAY, TALBOT back and the carrier is OTC again. 1400, the HENLEY came alongside and we transferred (hi-lined) 3 officers and 2 enlisted men to her. 2200, NEHANTA BAY, HENLEY left.

16th-More carrier ops-early to late. 1200, WOODWORTH passed mail to us. 1830, NEHANTA BAY, HENLEY back. 2200, WAKE IS., DENNIS left. 2300, bogies at 10,000 yards but none came any closer. 2400, LUNGA POINT, BULL left. Our TU got orders to leave Okinawa area to go towards Formosa, and bomb Saki Shima Gunto. 17th-0600, BULL returned. 1030, HENLEY passed mail to us. 1330, we left the screen to pick up a large empty life raft-no ID. It looked like it had been in the water a long time. 2130, WAKE IS., DENNIS returned. 2200, SHAMROCK BAY, SNYDER left.

18th-At dawn, we passed another TG, 1 BB, 2 CL, 6 DD, going to bombard Saki Shima. More air strikes from our carriers. 0900, DENNIS passed mail to us. 1000, we refueled from the HOGGATT BAY. 1630, BAGLEY (CDS 6) returned and assumed command of our TU. 32.1.12. 1900, SNYDER passed mail to us. 19th-More carrier strikes. 0700, GQ-bogies, which turn out to be "friendlies". 1315, a plane crew from the HOGGATT BAY was picked up by the PATTERSON. 1630, WOODWORTH passed mail. 1900, HENLEY sank a mine. 2050, TILLS (DE-748) joined our TU. 20th- More early carrier ops-air strikes. Escorts had to plane guard on all launch and recovery ops. The weather turned bad, as there was a typhoon near the Philippines. 1200, VICKSBURG (CL-86) joined up. 1900, MANILA BAY (CVE-61) and its escort HEMMINGER (DE-746) join, along with various other ships of TU 32.1.3. 2200, it's our turn to go to Kerama Retto, escorting the LUNGA POINT. 21st- We arrived Kerama Retto at 0630. 0800, we refueled from the WHIPPET (IX-129), then to the ALKES (AK 110) for much needed stores and supplies. We were done by 1430 and left with the LUNGA POINT, to rejoin at 2030. Just after we left the port, there was a big air raid. 2 cans in the harbor got hit by Baka bombs.

22nd-The ships in the combined TU were now the: VICKSBURG, Carriers(7): LUNGA POINT, FANSHAW BAY, (ComCarDiv 6) (OTC), STEAMER BAY (CVE-87), SHIPLEY BAY, SHAMROCK BAY, HOGGATT BAY, NEHENTA BAY. The 11 escorts: PATTERSON, BAGLEY, NICK, DENNIS, WOODWORTH, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, RALPH TALBOT, HENLEY, TILLS, WILKES. The carriers continued their daily air strikes. 0845, we started to pass mail to all ships. This was an all day job. 1150, RALPH TALBOT picked up a downed pilot. 1830, DALY (DD-519) picked up another downed flyer. 2000, SHIPLEY BAY, STEAMER BAY, DENNIS, TILLS left. During flight ops today, our carriers had their first accidents in a long time, and had a fine record, considering they launch and recover planes all day, every day. l crashed into the water and the other hit the flight deck on landing.

23rd-0700, we met up with our tanker unit and 0900-we refueled from the NEOSHA. 1600, the carrier planes gave the escorts some AA firing practice. We shot down 1 sleeve and hit another. 24th- The Army announced the Okinawa campaign is over. So our TU got orders to go to Leyte. 0200, we were on the way and the carriers conducted 2 air strikes against Saki Shima. We were now working for CTF 31. 1300, we went alongside a carrier and picked up official mail and hi-lined it to all the ships in our TU, an all afternoon job. 25th-The VICKSBURG launched 3 drones for AA practice-all crashed. We were en route to Leyte, screening the carriers. 26th-still en route. Air strikes. 27th- 0600, we sighted Dinagar Is. PI-at 55 miles. 1100, the TU entered Surigao Straits. 1400, entered San Pedro Bay. 1630, anchored. 1700, we went alongside YO 145 for fuel, then anchored. 28th-0800, we got underway with TG 30.8 escorting them to Ulithi, with the DETROIT, FARENHOLT (DD-491), LARDNER (DD-487), McCALLA (DD-488), WOODWORTH, LANSDOWNE (DD-486), NICK, OLIVER MITCHELL (DE-417), NICHOLAS, O'BANNON (DD-450), STOCKTON, STEVENSON, WILLIAM SEIVERLING (DE-441), GOSS, KENDALL CAMPBELL (DE-443), ULVERT MOORE (DE-442). 29th-0500, we made practice torpedo runs on the DETROIT. 0700, another DD spotted 2 barges and sank them. 30th-More GQ and AA practice. We all arrived in Ulithi 1430. We went alongside the HOUSANTIC for fuel. Then at 1600, we moored alongside the PRAIRIE for 3 days tender availability, along with the FRENCH (DE-367), HERNDON (DD-638), GILLIGAN (DE-508). We put this time to good use, in doing a lot of routine upkeep and repairs that couldn't be done, while we were with the carriers. All the cans were pretty beat up and the crews needed a rest.

JULY 1945

ComDesRon 12 was now Capt. W. Reynolds, CDD 24 was Capt Brodie (CTU 30.8.4). The SWANSON and GRAYSON were not with us.

lst-through the 8th, we were alongside the tender, getting much needed repairs and giving the crew a chance to clean and paint the ship. Also all hands got liberty-(one section each day) drank some beer, played soft ball, and got their feet on dry land. While it wasn't NYC, it had to do. We got some more mail, the first in over 2 weeks. We continued to get mail during our stay. Our mail was gradually catching up with us. Also each night we got a new movie, an welcome change. 8th- 1130, we got underway and went alongside the SELMA VICTORY to load ammo. Then we anchored and stayed at anchor on the 9th. 10th-1130, we got underway as part of TU 30.8.4 (the Commodore was CTU), escorting 8 fleet tankers-CALIENTE, HOUSATONIC, CACHE, MASCOMA (AO-83), AUCILLA (AO-56), PATUXENT, PAMAMSET (AO-85), KENNEBEGO. The other escorts were the NICK, WOODWORTH. As we were getting underway, we got our anchor fouled, a very unusual occurrence for us, and very embarrassing

The Commodore was now CDD 14, and we were part of DesRon 7. This was the 4th change in our assignment since we became part of the Pacific Fleet.

Our destination was East of Tokyo Bay, to refuel TF 38. They were starting intense raids on the HOME ISLANDS, starting on the 14th. They were about 500 miles NE of Tokyo. 11th- escorting- 1000, the BENNION (DD-662) joined up. The weather was bad-cold and rainy. 12th-still escorting- weather was still bad. 1100, WOODWORTH sank an oil drum. 1500, the HOUSATONIC broke down-generator failure. The Commodore sent her to the rear of the convoy. 13th- Escorting. 1000, the HOUSATONIC dropped back, out of the convoy. The NICK stood-by her. 1100, TU 30.8.5 joined our group. They were: LASSEN (AE-3), MAUNA LOA (AE-8), WRANGELL (AE-12), GARRARD (APA-84), SHASTA (AE-6), VESUVIUS (AE-15) escorted by: TAYLOR, BEBAS (DE- 10), GRISWOLD (DE-7), CARLSON (DE-9). The Commodore was in charge of the entire group. 1400, HOUSATONIC and NICK rejoined. 14th-Still escorting. 1130, we went alongside the PATUXENT to refuel. Then the CARLSON got a sonar contact and we has to immediately cast off from the tanker. It was a false contact. Then we had to go back and finish taking on fuel.

15th- Still escorting. 0230, TAYLOR got a false sonar contact. 0900, we got mail. 2215, we got a hot spring bearing and had to secure the port engine. The engineering people worked all night to repair it. We were going on only one screw-starboard. 16th- Still headed to TF 38. The weather is still bad-cold and rough. 1430, CARLSON sank a mine. 2030, the VESUVIUS left the formation, due to engine problems. The Commodore had the TAYLOR stand by her. 17th- Escorting. Since we were getting close to the Home Islands, the Commodore sent out a radar picket, the NICK. She made radar contact with TG 30.8 30 miles. 2 of our planes caught a sub on the surface and a nearby DE sank it. 0400, BENNION had a false sonar contact. We then joined up with TG 30.8, CTG Rear Admiral D. B. Beary, in the DETROIT. 1900, THETIS BAY (CVE-90), escorted by the GOSS, SEIVERLING, joined the TG. 18th- 0215, we got a radar contact with the British Pacific Fleet at 19 miles. 0320, we got a good sonar contact and dropped 8 depth charges. The explosions knocked out our sonar training gear. The McCLELLAND (DE-750) joined the search.- no luck. By 0400, we had our equipment fixed. 0600, TU 30.8.1 joined the TG. 0730, BEBAS, CROWLEY (DE -303), SEIVERLING, BANGUST, WATERMAN (DE-740) left the group. 1145, we refueled from the MERRIMACK (AO-37). During the day, 3 escorts sank mines.

19th- We were still screening the TG. 0945, we went alongside the ADMIRALTY IS. to transfer (hi-line) Ens. John Filer and his gear for an operation for appendicitis. The surgery was successful and he was back on his feet in short order. The weather was still bad. 20th-The TG commander divided the TG into 3 units to replenish TF 38. We were in TG 30.18.1 (5 AO's plus 6 escorts. The Commodore was the screen commander. 0430, TG 38.1 was sighted 10 miles distant. 0515, our tankers started to refuel the TG. CTG 38.1 was the BENNINGTON (CV-20)(OTC). They were: 3 CV, 2 CVL, 3 BB, 6 CL plus cans as escorts. 1430, while screening, the HMS UGANDA cut through our formation, crossing our bow. We had to backdown-FULL. It was a very close call. Perhaps he was running out of fuel and wanted to get alongside a tanker ASAP? The weather was still very bad-rain, 40mph wind, high seas.

21st- Our TU was still refueling and replenished the TG and we were still screening. 1130, we refueled from the PATUXENT. 22nd- The TG was still refueling, etc. It was a huge job to get everyone 100%, in such poor weather and rough seas. 1000, WOODWORTH, LE RAY WILSON (DE-414), CARLSON departed with the tankers to meet with TG 30.8. By 1600, our people were finished with TG 30.1. The carriers, BB's, etc. headed for the HOME ISLANDS. 1800, the LARDNER passed mail to us. It was always nice to hear from home. We then left to join TG 30.8. We were fairly close to Japan (350 miles). 23rd- We were still screening and escorting TG 30.8. 1000, the ATASCOSA (AO-66), SEBEC (AO-87), escorted by WILLMARTH (DE-638), LeRAY WILSON, CARLSON left our unit. We had one day of decent weather, but today it was very bad again. We and all the other escorts were very short of all types of food and supplies. 24th-Nice weather again and it was greatly appreciated. 1300, we went alongside the ALCOYNE (AKA-7) for supplies, food, etc. We had 2 straps break while hi-lining. This was most unusual. All the other ships in the screen got resupplied too. 1615, we sunk a floating drum with rifle fire. 25th-1000, we went alongside the CALIENTE for fuel. 1300, the TG held AA practice. NICK and BUCHANAN sank mines. 26th-0530, TU 18.18.3 was formed, with the Commodore as screen commander. We, LAKE, TAYLOR, LAMONS (DE-743) CABANA (DE-260) escorted CALIENTE. 0700, we met with TG 38.3 to refuel and replenish them. 27th-The sea was very rough again. Our good weather didn't last long. By 1000, we were finished and all ships go to join TG 30.8.

28th-Still escorting and screening. 0830, we picked up a passenger from the NEOSHA and hi-lined him to the CAHABA, and then refueled from the tanker. The weather was bad again, raining hard, but the seas were not rough. We have practice GQ. 29th- Holiday routine. We haven't had much of that lately. 0700, TU 30.8.8 rejoined TG 30.8. 1530, CHOWANOC (ATF-100) came alongside and hi-lined 8 bags of mail to us, which made a nice Sunday treat. 30th- As before-0530, TU 94.16.17 joined up with our unit. 0730, we left the screen to deliver mail and passengers. 1000, NICHOLAS hi-lined an officer to us. 1300, we had AA practice. We shot down a sleeve. 31st- The weather was bad again, sea rough. 1000, TG 30.8 was split into 3 parts again to refuel and replenish TG 38.1. We were in TU 30.18.1, with the Commodore, as ComScreen. 1400, we met TG 38.1 and our tankers, etc. started to fuel and pass stores.. We didn't finish before dark, so we had to stay until the first to finish the job.

V-J DAY

AUGUST 1945

lst- Our ships started at first light to get the job finish ASAP. 1100, Com3rdFlt issued a special warning on enemy sub attacks. The weather was still bad, with rougher seas. By 1215, TG's ships were finished and they left at high speed. We rejoined TG 30.8. 2nd- 1000, we went alongside the CAHABA to refuel. The weather was better and sea smoother. 1500, we went alongside the ASHTABULA to get a sick crew member, who we then hi-lined to the RESCUE (AH-18), finishing by 1630. 3rd- 0330, our TG split into 3 units again and we replenished TG 38.4. We were in TU 38.18.4, with the Commodore-ComScreen. We were finished by 1000. Later in the day, we had a full Captain's Inspection. The ship looked very good. The weather was better. 4th-0530, we were back with TG 30.8 again, still escorting and screening. The ships were: DETROIT (OTC), CAHABA, NEOSHO, KANKAKEE (tankers), GILBERT IS, escorts- WILKES, LERAY WILSON, WILLMARTH, MILLER (DE-535), TERRY (DD-513), LYMAN (DE-302), CHAWASHA (ATF-151), MOCTOBI (ATF-105), WENATCHEE (ATF- 118), CHOWANCO. The Commodore was the screen commander. The empty tankers and cargo ships went back to reload. 5th-1000, TERRY sank a mine. We were waiting for units of TF 38 to arrive.

6th-7th- nothing exciting. Planes from the GILBERT IS. practiced dive bombing and torpedo runs on us. It is good practice for both ship and planes. 8th-0500, 1 carrier and a DE joined us. 0700, we refueled from the CAHABA, took passengers via hi-line and then hi-line them to the NEOSHA 1030, CHOWANOC hi-lined a sick man to us. Dr Wyatt treated him and we hi-lined him back- all cured. 1345, we test fired VT fused 5" shells-less than 1/2 worked properly-not very good.

9th-Still with the tankers. We had more AA practice with towed sleeves. 10th-Still nothing special. 1200, the DETROIT and TERRY left the formation and the CO of the GILBERT IS. was now OTC. There were rumors on the radio that Japan had surrendered, but nothing official. All hands were on edge, waiting for THE END. 11th-Still no word. Our TU steamed SE to avoid a typhoon. 12th-0630, we started to refuel from the CAHABA and was done by 0730 and returned to our station in the screen. 1300, the MILLER sank a mine. 13th- The weather was bad and the sea very rough, due to the typhoon. It was too bad to get any ship's work done. 1600, TU 30.18.30 -the CAHABA, NEOSHA, MILLER, LYMAN, CHOWANOC left the formation. 14th-We are still escorting. The LeRAY WILSON hi-lined mail to us- a very welcome treat. The signal gang made a Victory Flag for the ship.

15th-JAPAN SURRENDERED- V-J DAY. A DAY THAT NO ONE WILL EVER FORGET. THE OFFICIAL WORD CAME AT 0804. The CO made the announcement on the 1MC. Everyone cheered and pounded each other on the back. WE HAD SURVIVED-HARD TO BELIEVE. In honor of the occasion, the CO gave us HOLIDAY ROUTINE. It was a LANDMARK DAY-that's for sure. However, certain things had to be done. We were still underway, escorting our TU. Watches had to be stood, guns still manned, the crew fed, food prepared and cooked-just to name a few things. We got to fly our VICTORY FLAG. WE HAD EARNED THE RIGHT. 0900, TG 30.8 sighted at 8 miles. We reported to CTF 30.8 for duty. We went to our screening station. 1019, CINCPAC dispatch received: "CEASE ALL OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS." However 1130, we got word that another TG 150 miles NW of us, was under air attack. 1230, we got 15 passengers from the PAMANSET via hi-line. 1600, we went alongside the DETROIT and the MANATEE to transfer mail. 1645, we went alongside the ESCAMBIA and picked up 4 officer passengers, via hi-line. 1730, the Commodore, CTU 30.18.32, in "W", and LeRAY WILSON left, escorting the PLATTE (AO-24), CAHABA, to Ulithi. We were scheduled to go to TOYKO BAY for the surrender ceremonies. However our orders were changed, later.

16th-Escorting-This was a very nice, calm day to celebrate our FIRST DAY OF PEACE. The World looked a lot more friendly today. However, we were still manning our guns-just in case. 1400, we sighted 4 ships-10 miles- HEALY (DD-672), DORTCH (DD-670) escorting the OZARK (LSV-2) and SHADWELL (LSD-15). 1830, the WILSON sank a mine. We had an uneventful trip, arriving on the 20th. 0900, we refueled from YO 146, then anchored, with SC 991, and SC 701 alongside. We dropped the outgoing mail and all our passengers off, for further transfer. Half the crew got liberty-beer. 21-23rd- We were anchored, giving liberty and getting ship's work done. 22nd- The SWANSON pulled into the harbor, just completing her overhaul in the States. Nice to have her back with us. 24th-0730, we were underway to the NEW CASTLE VICTORY for ammo, and SEPULGA (A0-20) for fuel. Before we left port, 14 crew members with 44 or more "points", were transferred ashore for further transportation HOME. At 1530, we got underway, as CTU 30.8.9, with ASHTABULA, CIMARRON (A0-22), KASKASKIA (A0-27), NIOBRARA (A0-72), TALUGA (A0-62), TAPPAHANNOCK (A0-43), escorted by LYMAN, MILLER. Our orders-go North to meet with TG 30.8 and refuel them.

25th-The CO allowed the crew to stand "peace time" watches, which made things a lot easier-everyone has more time to work and sleep. 1400, we got a sonar contact-nothing. 26th-We were still escorting. We got a dispatch: the "W", NICK and WOODWORTH would go to Tokyo for the surrender ceremonies, along with 170+ other ships. 27th- We were set to meet with the DETROIT and other ships in our TG on the 29th and then on to TOKYO. 28th-0950, LYMAN sank a mine. 1330, we refueled from the CIMMARRON, as did the other escorts. 1450, MILLER sank another mine. The CO decided the crew should have an opportunity to study various subjects (i.e.- math and English). The officers taught the courses. It was an excellent idea. It kept everyone interested in their spare time. 29th -0130, MOCTOBI joined up. 0230, we sighted TG 30.8 at 16 miles. 0530, we all joined up, (TG 30.8) We were now about 500 miles East of Tokyo Bay. Our scullery broke down before lunch. No lunch today. 1330, we went alongside the TERRY to passed them radio parts. 30th- 0915, we sank a mine with rifle fire. 0930, the NICK and a DE joined us. 1530 drill GQ. 31st- 0745, we went alongside the CIMARRON to pick up passengers. 0900-we hi-lined the Commodore to the DETROIT, for a conference with Admiral Berry. Then we went alongside the TERRY to pick up mail and passengers via hi-line. Then back to the DETROIT to hi-line the Commodore back on board, at 1000. We got another change in orders. WE WILL NOT BE GOING TO TOKYO BAY FOR THE SIGNING OF THE SURRENDER. Our orders had been changed. In some official records, the WILKES is listed among the many ships present at the signing. However, we were forever the "WORK HORSE". It would have proper to have been there, as a fitting end to our war long service, effort and work. However, we still had much hard work ahead of us. 1030, we formed up TU 30.8.2 with the HOUSATONIC, ASHTABULA, escorted by the DONALDSON (DE-44), DIONNE (DE-261), en route to Okinawa, heading SW. When we got the change of orders, we were about 250 miles East of Tokyo. Those in the crew, with enough "points" were going home ASAP. We had only 7 CPO's rather than our usual 15.

KOREA

SEPTMBER 1945

lst- As we started the first full month of PEACE, we were still escorting fleet tankers. Our unit- TU 30.8.2,with the Commodore in command was headed to Bruckner Bay as a 7th Fleet replenishment unit. We still had our afternoon practice GQ. The weather was getting bad, with typhoon warnings up. 2nd-The weather was even worse, with heavy seas and high wind. There was a typhoon NE of Luzon. The CO piped the radio broadcast of the surrender signing in Tokyo Bay. It is too bad we missed it. It would have been very nice to have been in on a piece of history. It would have also been nicer to be anchored snug and safe in Tokyo Bay, rather than escorting tankers in very heavy weather, in areas full of floating mines. 3rd- On the mid-watch, we lost fuel suction due to heavy seas. We went dead in the water. This was always a very scary feeling-no lights, no control, just being tossed around by the seas. Fortunately, there were not any real problems, as our engineers had things under control and we got underway again. 1000, we finally made it safely into Okinawa. The harbor was full of ships (BB's, CL's, DD's and all types of auxiliaries). We had to thread our way in between ships to our anchorage. The wind and sea pushed us around so much, the CO had to drop our anchor a couple of times, to keep us from colliding with other ships.We went alongside the ARETHUSA (IX-135), for fuel. When finished, we anchored. After dark, all anchored ships were lighted, as were all the shore installations. Peace was wonderful and a pretty sight, some change in 3 weeks. 4th- The storm passed, and the weather improved. Early in the morning the Commodore went ashore for a conference. He returned by 0830, with orders to get underway with our TU at 1330. The CO announced no more censorship for our out going mail. Peace was getting better each day and was finally sinking in

We were now TU 16.6.2 in the FIRST FLEET, with the same tankers and escorts. We were to meet with TU 99.6.7 at 36N, 124E. 5th-The weather was quite nice and seas calm, in fact, very pleasant. 6th- We are still escorting. By daybreak we were 150 miles NE of Shanghai, in the Yellow Sea. 1015, we sighted 2 fishing junks, flying Chinese colors. DIONNE AND DONALDSON sank 4 mines during the day. Between 1300- 1500, our unit passed through a large unswept mine field. The CO set Condition "A" (maximum water tight condition), as a wise precaution. 7th- 0830, our unit met with TG 70.6, which was refueling TG 71.1. The refueling was done by 1330. TG 70.6 consisted of the CHIWANA (A0-68), COWANESQUE (A0-79), escorted by the BELL (DD-587) and BURNS (DD-588) reported to the Commodore, for duty. During the day, we exploded/sank 4 mines and fired 160-40MM and 924 of 20MM. One mine exploded quite close to us and shook the ship. The other escorts sank another 4. The BURNS passed official mail and movies to us. No more darkening ship while underway at night. That's a big step forward. 8th- The escorts refueled from the tanker. We refueled from the ASTABULA. During the day, we sank 3 mines. During the day all escorts sank 13 mines. 1600, the CHIWAWA, escorted by the DIONNE departed.

9th- We are still escorting. We had holiday routine, with church services on board-a very unusual occurrence. We sank 3 mines, out of a total of 6. With all the floating mines in the area, The Commodore felt it was dangerous for our group to be underway, except to refuel the TG. He asked permission to go into a harbor to lessen the mine danger. He got the OK The Japanese Army in Korea and on the mainland of Asia surrendered. They were the reason, we didn't go to Tokyo Bay. The carriers, cruisers and cans went into the Yellow Sea as a show of force. It worked.

10th- Our unit met with TF 72 (3 carriers and 5 DD's) and started to refuel them. We also sighted Mt Wade, Shantung Province, China. 0845, the LOUISVILLE (CA-28) and HERNDON (DD-638) joined our TU. 1040, we sighted TG 78.3 and the ASTABULA refueled them. By 1430, they were done and our TU set course for Jinsen, Korea. 11th- The weather had been good. 0700, as we approached the harbor, 2 mine sweeper were working in the entrance. 2 transports and 1 DE came out. 0800, we anchored in Higushi Channel, 1000 yards from Ito Is., which is about 20 miles SE of Jinsen, awaiting further orders. At first the place looked deserted. About noon, a fleet of fishing junks came in the harbor. Later, some "bum boats" came alongside, trying to sell us, trinkets, etc. 12th- Some men got liberty in the morning and some more in the afternoon, after the morning party returned. They got some beer and traded for souvenirs. 13th-A typhoon was on the way and the weather was getting bad. The BELL left our unit, going to the 7th Fleet.

14th-The LAKE, who was also part of our unit, got orders to return to the States to be de-commissioned. 1700, we got underway to meet with TG 71.5 -4 old cruisers and 5 new cans and TU 71.1.5 to refuel them. As we got underway, our anchor got fouled and we were delayed. The other ships went on ahead-no sub or air danger now. The tankers refueled the other TG/TU. We then refueled from the ASTABULA. Then we anchored off Ito Is. From 16th-29th- we were anchored. Each day, some men got liberty. The local people were very poor and had awful living conditions. They must have suffered greatly under Japanese rule. 21st-NELSON (DD-623), CONNOLLY (DE-306), DIONE reported for duty. We hadn't had any mail for more than 2 weeks. The LAKE left for the States. Before she left, we sent 12 men to her for transportation to the States and discharge. They sent us 14 for our crew. While at anchor the education classes were held both mornings and afternoon, using the mess hall. We are running out of food again.

24th-Our motor whale boat's motor quit on the way to the beach and the coxswain had to bum a tow back to the ship. The TALLULAH (A0-50) got underway, as did the DIONE 1600, the JOSEPH CONNOLLY (DE-450) came in with supplies for us. We promptly got a working party together and moved the stuff on board. All hands worked quite late. The CROSLEY (APD-87) came alongside to take our outgoing mail. 27th- The weather was poor and seas rough. The CONNOLLY came in with more supplies for us and we had another late working party. At least we had food to eat. 30th- We got orders to go to Jinsen and anchor. The Commodore went over to the Flag on the GUAM (CB-2) for the new orders. The DIONNE was released to go back to the States to be de-commissioned.

OCTOBER 1945

1st-The Commodore was promoted to a Captain, and was still CDD-14. 0800, we got underway for Ito Is. to refuel from the HOUSTANIC . 1730, ASTABULA, GUADALUPE (AO- 32), escorted by W, and CONNOLLY got underway to meet with and refuel TF 72. The weather was very bad. There was a typhoon off the east coast of Korea. 2nd- 0630, our tankers started to refuel the carriers and their escorts and they were finished by 1300. The weather was still bad, rough seas. In all it was a very miserable day. The weather was too bad to go back into the harbor, so we anchored off Ito Is. 4th-The weather improved. The CO's of the remaining ships of our TU had a meeting to see how many men the DIONNE could take back to the States. We had 11 men on the list. They decided the DIONNE could take back 83 men. They left 50 men to be split among the remaining ships. 5th- The DIONNE left the harbor with our men going home. 1900, she passed all the ships at anchor, playing loud music. All the ships shot off very pistols. Then the DIONNE passed out of sight-in the dark. All hands watched as she disappeared. It was very sad to lose old friends and shipmates. But they were going home to loved ones, family and friends. With the War over, everyone and everything was winding down. Everyone was thinking about HOME and FAMILY.

4th-6th-anchored. 7th- 0920, we got underway to shift anchorage's, to be near the WHITNEY (AD-4). Then to the GUADALUPE to refuel but we parted the forward lines and cast had to off without refueling. 1730, we got underway with the NELSON, GUADALUPE, ASHTABULA to refuel TF 72. 8th-escorting. 9th-0430, we sighted the INTREPID (CV-11) and her 2 escorts. 0545, sighted TF 72, refueled them, and then returned to anchorage, Jinsen. 10th- TU 16.6.2 was dissolved. We were waiting on further orders from ComSerRon 10. 11th- We got a 10 day availability alongside the WHITNEY. We needed repairs and upkeep very badly. We were there through the 20th. On the 13th- 0700, there was a very bad fire in the Jinsen waterfront. We sent a fire party over to help fight the fire. They returned at 1630-the fire was out. 21st- 1100, we were underway to the GAZELLE (IX-116) for fuel. We got word the WILKES was going to be de-commissioned in Charleston, SC. The war was over and the Navy had no more use for the WILKES. It was tired, used up and worn out. All but a handful of "cans" of the LIVERMORE/BENSON/ BRISTOL class were de-commissioned. Older ones than us, were scrapped or disposed of forthwith. There were many much newer "cans" in the Fleet. 1500, we were underway for Saipan--on our way HOME.

22nd-Headed to Saipan- 0730, we sank a Jap mine. 0830, we sighted the PIERCE (APA-50) and CARTERET (APA-70) and escorted them. In the morning we sank 4 more Jap mines-firing 696-40MM, and 1345-20MM. We passed many Allied ships. 1500, the APA's left. 23th-26th-En route to Saipan. 27th- 0800, we arrived in Saipan and went alongside the RACCOON (IX-127) for fuel. 1100, underway for Pearl. 28th-3lst- en route to Pearl. AA training on the way.

30th- 1800, passed Wake Is, at 11 miles.

NOVEMBER 1945

1st-1945, crossed International Date Line. 4th- 0850, arrived Pearl and moored alongside the COGHLAN (DD 606), also on her way to Charleston. 4th-6th- Pearl. 7th-0700, we left Pearl (CTU 15.1.5), with SWANSON and COGHLAN for San Diego. 8th-13th- en route to San Diego. 13th-1330, moored Pier B, San Diego. We got a very nice welcome from the City-brass bands. We discharged our 86 passengers. Then they put us at a buoy. LIBERTY IN THE USA. We stayed there under the 16th. 0800-on the 16th, we got underway, with the SWANSON and COGHLAN for the CZ. 18th-24th-We were en route to the CZ. 22nd-We all conducted a full power run at 30kts for 3 hours. 1330, we went alongside the COGHLAN to hi-line an enlisted man for medical treatment. Dr. Wyatt and his staff took good care of him.

24th- 1245, we all entered Miraflores Lock, 1330, entered Pedro Miguel Lock, 1900, entered Gatun Lock, leaving at 2130. 2330, we all moored to a pier, Coco Solo, CZ. 25th-27th-We were all moored at the pier-Liberty. 27th-We took on 40 passengers for the US. 28th-0800, we all got underway for Charleston-our last stop in our long and eventful career. 1100, we all did another full power run to 1700, for old times sake. We only had 3 boilers. Our trip was uneventful.

DECEMBER 1945

3rd--We arrived Charleston and discharged our passengers. We tied up at a dock in the Charleston Navy Shipyard. Our working life was over.

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