AP-40 USS CRESCENT CITY


Class: CRESCENT CITY
Commissioned 10/10/41
Length Overall 491' 0"
Extreme Beam: 65' 6"
Limiting Draft: 25' 8"
Limiting Displacement tons: 14,247
Ships Company: Off. 36;  Enl.: 498
Troop Capacity: Off.: 58;  Enl.: 1,102
Cargo Capacity: 2,300 tons
Armament: Primary: (4) 3"/50 cal.
Armament: Secondary:  (2) 40mm twin
(14) 20mm
Designed Speed: 17 knots
Designed Shaft Horse Power: 7,800
Screws: 1
Type: Geared turbine
Fuel (oil) tons 1,935



WAR DIARY of the USS CRESCENT CITY Nov.1 to 30, 1942


Action Report on the Night of Nov. 11-12, 1942 of USS CRESCENT CITY


                                   WAR DIARY

                      COMMANDING OFFICER, USS CRESCENT CITY

From:  November 1, 1942                                To:  November 30, 1942

COMMANDER TRANSPORT DIVISION TWO, TRANSPORTS, AMPHIBIOUS FORCE,
                     SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE

From:  November 1, 1942                                To:  November 4, 1942,
                                                            0825 L.C.T.

Copy to:
Chief of Naval Operations
   (Office of Naval Records and Library)


REPORT OF COMMANDING OFFICER, USS CRESCENT CITY (AP40) AND COMMANDER
TRANSPORT DIVISION TWO, TRANSPORTS, AMPHIBIOUS FORCE, SOUTH PACIFIC

Attached to Transport Division Two, Transports, Amphibious Force, South 
Pacific Force.

1 November 1942

G.C.T.    L.C.T.
                    CRESCENT CITY steaming alone enroute from 
                    Wellington, New Zealand, to Noumea, New Caledonia;
                    course 339°, speed 15 knots.  Ship in Condition
                    of Readiness III and Material Condition Affirm;
                    darkened.
31 Oct
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
1300       0200     Commenced zigzagging (moonrise).

1700       0600     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material
                    Condition Affirm (1 hour before sunrise).  Marines
                    manned boat machine guns.

1753       0653     Secured from General quarters, set Condition of
                    Readiness III and Material.  Condition Baker;
                    lighted ship (sunrise).

1900       0800     Lat. 27-25-20 S., Long. 168-23-00 E.

2100       1000     Instruction for all sky and surface lookouts off
                    watch.

2300       1200     Lat. 26-38-00 S., Long. 167-59-00 E.  Course 339°,
                    speed 13.9 knots made good since 1200 previous day.

2400       1300     Conference all fire control and battery officers.

1 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0700       2000     Lat. 24-55-00 S., Long. 167-25-30 E.

0705       2005     Darkened ship (sunset).

0805       2105     Secured boat machine guns.

0814       2114     Ceased zigzagging. Changed course to 333°.

                    Steaming alone on course 333°, speed 15 knots.  Enroute 
                    Noumea, New Caledonia from Wellington, New Zealand. Ship
                    in Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition Affirm 
                    (modified).

1340       0240     Commenced zig-zagging (moonrise).

1710       0610     Went to General Quarters, set Material Condition
                    Affirm, marines manned boat machine guns.

1715       0615     Land sighted bearing 045° true.

1753       0653     Sighted ship bearing 010° true, distance 6 miles,
                    identified as U.S.S. BARTON.

1808       0708     Secured from General quarters, set Condition of Readiness
                    III and Material Condition Baker, lighted ship 
                    (sunrise).

1840       0740     Sighted Amedee Lighthouse bearing 090° true.
                    Ceased zig-zagging and changed course to 090° true.

1846       0746     Sighted six barrage balloons bearing 050° true.

1850       0750     Sighted Lockheed Hudson PBO bearing 097° true.

1900       0800     Lat. 22-29-40 S., Long. 166-13-15 E.

1927       0827     Set special sea details.

1935       0835     Sighted Corvette T-102, H.M.N.Z.S. KIWI.

2002       0902     Entered Bulari Passage (northern passage).

2137       1037     Entered anti-submarine net at head of Great Roads
                    anchorage.

2150       1050     Anchored in Great Roads, Noumea* New Caledonia in berth 
                    A-2 in 7 fathoms of water.

2158       1058     Secured main engines and special sea details.

0100       1400     Ship's clocks retarded two hours to conform to minus 11
                    zone time.

0313       1413     Captain John R. Sullivan, U.S.N. reported aboard for duty
                    as commanding officer in accordance with BuPers dispatch 
                    121636 of September 1942.

0400       1500     Transferred personnel, officers and men of Kiwi Cast, New 
                    Zealand Army ashore.

0430       1530     Exercised at General Quarters, set Condition Affirm.

0440       1540     Secured from General Quarters, exercised at fire drill.

0455       1555     Secured from fire drill, exercised at collision drill.

0510       1610     Secured from collision drill, set Material Condition Baker.

0706       1806     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Great Roads, Noumea, New Caledonia in berth
                    A-2 in 7 fathoms of water. Ship darkened and set in 
                    condition of Readiness III, Material Condition Baker. 
                    Ships present: U.S.S. WASHINGTON, U.S.S. SOUTH DAKOTA, 
                    U.S.S. ENTERPRISE, U.S.S. MCCAWLEY, U.S.S. PORTLAND, 
                    U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON, U.S.S. WHITNEY, , U.S.S. VESTAL and 
                    numerous other ships of Task Force 61, SOPA in U.S.S. 
                    ARGONNE.

2 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
1811       0511     Lighted ship (sunrise), commenced lowering boats.

1840       0540     Stationed special sea details.

1917       0617     Underway shifting from berth A-2 to Grand Quay,
                    Noumea, New Caledonia.

2012       0712     Entered anti-submarine net (Little Entrance) between 
                    Point Denouel and Ile Debrun.

2028       0728     Let go starboard anchor and veered to 15 fathoms.

2034       0734     First line made fast to dock.

2110       0810     Secured all special sea details.

2111       0811     Disembarked Marine Casual Detachment of 119 men and two 
                    officers.

2208       0908     Commenced embarking personnel of Headquarters Company
                    less Battalion sections, Service Company less Battalion 
                    sections, Anti-Tank Company, Medical Detachment less 
                    Battalion sections, and Band of 182nd Infantry plus 
                    Company "C", 57th Engineers, U.S. Army.

2310       1010     Transferred thirty men to U.SN Mobile Hospital #5 at 
                    White Poppy in accordance with ComServRonSoPao memo of 
                    11-2-42.

3 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0708       1808     Darkened ship (sunset).

0855       1955     Transferred three men to AmFor boat pool, U.S. Advance
                    Naval Base, White Poppy in accordance with ComTaskFor 62 
                    mailgram 020240 of November.

                    Moored port side to Grand Quay, Noumea, Caledonia. Ship 
                    in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition 
                    Baker. Carrying on loading operations.
	
1350       0050     Completed all loading operations.

1812       0512     Lighted ship (sunrise).

1840       0540     Set special sea details.

1929       0629     Underway from Grand Quay on various courses and speeds 
                    cut of Noumea Harbor, shifting berths.

2039       0739     Anchored in Dumbea Bag 250 yards, bearing 327° from berth
                    40 in 11 fathoms of water.

2046       0746     Secured main engines and special sea details.

2115       0815     All hands at quarters for muster.

2125       0825     Captain John R. Sullivan relieved Captain I.N. Kiland as 
                    Commanding Officer in accordance with CinC letter to 
                    Captain John R. Sullivan FF1/P16-4/00, serial 4456 and 
                    BuPers Dispatch 121636.  Captain I.N. Kiland relieved of 
                    command in accordance with BuPers mailgram 221336.

2250       0950     Went to General Quarters, set Material Condition Affirm.

2305       1005     Secured, from General Quarters, set Condition of 
                    Readiness III, Material Condition Baker.

2315       1015     Commenced hoisting all boats.  Ship placed on one 
                    hour notice in accordance with ComSoPac's Dispatch 032254 
                    of November.

4 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0154       1245     Ship placed on 12 hour notice in accordance with 
                    ComSoPac's Dispatch 032354 of November.

0707       1807     Darkened ship (sunset). Set Harbor Condition of
                    Readiness III. 

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, Now Caledonia, 250 yards, 
                    bearing 3270 from berth 40. Ship darkened in Base 
                    Condition of Readiness M, Material Condition Baker.

1742       0442     Base Condition of Readiness II.

1812       0512     Lighted ship (sunrise).

2030       0730     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness II, set Base
                    condition of Readiness IV.

2100       0800     All hands at quarters for muster, No absentee.

           A.M.     Routine ship's work. Continued making necessary repairs 
                    to and overhauling cargo handling gear.

2300       1000     Exercised troops at abandon ship drill.

2320       1020     Secured troops from abandon ship drill.

           P.M.     Continued making repairs as possible by ship's company.

5 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0200       1300     Commenced debarkation exercises for all troops.

0245       1345     Secured from debarkation exercises for all troops.

0638       1738     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness IV. set Base 
                    Condition of Readiness III.

0708       1808     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay Noumea, New Caledonia, 250 yards, 
                    bearing 327° from berth 40.  Ship darkened in Base 
                    Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition Baker.

1744       0444     Secured from Base Condition of Read as III, set Base
                    Condition of Readiness II.

1810       0510     Lighted ship (sunrise).

2030       0730     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness II, set Base 
                    Condition of Readiness IV.

2100       0800     All hands at quarters for muster.  No absentees.

           A.M.     Ship's  crew continued making repairs to and over
                    hauling gear.

           P.M.     Continued ship's work.

6 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0200       1300     Exercised troops at abandon ship drill.

0217       1317     Secured troops from abandon ship drill.

0639       1739     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness IV, set Base
                    Condition of Readiness III.

0709       1809     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, 250
                    yards, bearing 327° from berth #40.  Ship darkened in 
                    Base Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition 
                    Baker.

1741       0441     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness III, set Base
                    Condition of Readiness II.

1811       0511     Lighted ship (sunrise).

2021       0721     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness II, set
                    Condition I-A.

2030       0730     Commenced Schedule exercises.  Lowered all boats.

2100       0800     All troops manned their debarkation stations.

2105       0805     Commenced disembarking troops.

2130       0830     Commenced reembarking troops.

2320       1020     All troops and boats aboard.  Secured from Condition 
                    I-A, set Condition of Readiness IV.

           P.M.     Ship's crew making repairs and alterations as required.

7 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0310       1410     Received 1100 gallons of gasoline from barge.

0500       1600     Commenced embarking enlisted personnel of the Hornet 
                    Detail for further transfer to Cactus-Ringbolt Area, in 
                    accordance with Commanding Officer, U.S.S. HORNET Orders,
                    File P16-4/MM/ECA of November 7, 1942.

0535       1635     Received aboard two officers and 26 enlisted men of the
                    Porter Detail for further transfer to Cactus- in 
                    accordance with ComSeronSoPac Personnel Order #137-A-42.

0650       1750     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness IV, set Base 
                    Condition of Readiness II.

0709       1809     Darkened ship (sunset).

0740       1840     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness II, set Base 
                    Condition of Readiness III.

0830       1930     Received aboard nineteen enlisted men for duty in
                    accordance with ComSerRonSoPac Personnel Order #134-A-42.

0900       2000     Completed embarking naval personnel of the Hornet
                    Detail.  

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, 250 yards, 
                    bearing 327° from berth #40.  Ship darkened in Base 
                    Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition Baker.

1742       0442     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness III, set Base 
                    Condition of Readiness II.

1812       0512     Lighted ship (sunrise).

1900       0600     Secured from Base Condition of Readiness II, set 
                    Base Condition of Readiness IV.

2100       0800     Mustered crew on stations.  No absentees.  Received 
                    aboard two officers and 200 Marines for further transfer 
                    Cactus in accordance with ComTaskFor 62 Dispatch No. 
                    070650 of 7 November 1942.

2200       0900     Received ComAmpForSoPac Secret Mailgrams No. 070917 and
                    No. 070952 relative to Current Operations in the Cactus-
                    Ringbolt Area.  Made all preparations for getting 
                    underway.

2230       0930     Received aboard 1100 gallons of gasoline from barge.

           P.M.     Continued making preparations for getting underway.

8 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0200       1300     Received 700 gallons of gasoline from barge.

0300       1400     Received  CTD-2 Operation Order No. 2-42 relative to 
                    preposed operations at Cactus and H.Qts. 182nd Infantry 
                    Field Order No. 1 outlining plans for landing troops at 
                    Cactus Area.

0400       1500     Received CTF-67 Secret Mailgrams  No. 072225, No. 072332, 
                    and No. 080120; CTF-62 Secret Mailgram No. 072347, 
                    pertaining to current operations.

0430       1530     Stationed all special sea details.

0505       1605     Got underway in accordance CTF-62 Dispatch No. 072210 of 
                    November 1942.  Proceeded out of channel on various 
                    courses and speeds, in column 1000 yards astern of the 
                    U.S.S. McCAWLEY, guide.

0650       1750     Secured from special sea details.  Set Condition of
                    Readiness III.

0700       1800     Departed Northern Passage, Bulari Passage, and steaded on 
                    course 245°.  Formed Cruising Disposition AC-1 with 
                    U.S.S. McCAWLEY AND U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY in Right column, 
                    and U.S.S. PRESIDENT JACKSON and U.S.S. PRESIDENT ADAMS  
                    in Left Column.  Distance 600 yards, Interval 1000 yards.  
                    Escorting ships ahead and on both flanks, U.S.S. PORTLAND 
                    on port quarter. OTC in U.S.S. McCAWLEY.

0800       1900     Changed course and axis to 303°, standard speed 13.5 
                    knots.

0904       2000     Lat. 22°-27'-00" S., Long. 166°-04-20" E.  Set Material 
                    Condition Affirm.

                    Steaming in company with units of Task Force 67, 
                    Transport Group 67.1, composed of USS McCAWLEY And USS 
                    CRESCENT CITY in starboard column, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON 
                    and USS PRESIDENT ADAMS in port column, distance 600 
                    yards, interval 1400 yards.  Destroyer screen on station 
                    ahead and on both flanks, USS PORTLAND on port quarter 
                    (cruising disposition AC-1). Ship darkened and in 
                    Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition Affirm, 
                    Course and axis 303°, speed 13.5 knots.

1730       0430     Went to General Quarters, maintained Condition Affirm,
                    Troops manned all anti-aircraft machine guns.

1745       0445     Commenced zig-zagging.

1816       0516     Secured from General quarters, set Condition of Readiness 
                    III Material Condition Baker. Lighted ship (sunrise).

1952       0652     Ceased zig-zagging.

2000       0700     Changed course and axis to 325°.

2017       0717     Commenced zig-zagging.

2100       0800     Lat. 21°-03'-00" S., Long. 163°- 14'-00" E.

2300       1000     Exercised all hands at abandon ship stations.

2325       1025     Secured from abandon ship drill. 

9 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0100       1200     Lat. 20°-28'-10" S., long. 163°-14'-00" E.
                    Course made good -- 301°, 
                    Speed made good -- 12.4 knots.

0200       1300     Medical officer held First Aid instruction for all boat 
                    crewmen off watch.

0223       1323     Ceased zig-zagging.

0227       1327     Changed course and axis to 340°.

0230       1330     Commenced zig-zagging.

0235       1335     Planes from USS PORTLAND commenced making dummy dive
                    bombing and torpedo runs on ships of the Task Force.  All 
                    A.A. guns held pointer drill.

0400       1500     Stationed all troops at their debarkation stations.

0430       1530     Secured troops from debarkation drill. 

0440       1540     Ceased A.A. gun pointing drill on planes of USS PORTLAND.

0600       1700     CTF 67 held emergency turn exercises.  All ships
                    maneuvered on right and left turns as signaled.

0608       1708     Resumed zig-zagging.

0720       1820     Darkened ship (sunset).

0814       1914     Ceased zig-zagging.

0900       2000     Lat. 18°-56'-30" S., Long. 162°-41'-30" E.

1200       2300     Changed course and axis to 005°.

                    Steaming in company with units of Task Force 67, and 
                    Transport Group 67.1, composed of USS McCAWLEY am USS 
                    CRESCENT CITY in starboard column, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON 
                    and USS PRESIDENT ADAMS in port column, distance 600 
                    yards, interval 1000 yards.  Destroyer screen on station 
                    ahead and on both flanks, USS PORTLAND on port quarter 
                    (cruising disposition AC1), Ship darkened and in 
                    Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition Affirm.  
                    Course and axis 005°, speed 13.0 knots.

1745       0445     Commenced zig-zagging.

1800       0500     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material Condition 
                    Affirm.  Manned all A.A. guns.

1829       0529     Lighted ship (sunrise).

1835       0535     Secured from General Quarter, set Condition of Readiness 
                    III, Material Condition Baker.

2100       0800     Lat. 16°-28'-00" S., Long. 162°-35'-20" E.

2300       1000     Stationed all troops at their debarkation stations.

2330       1030     Secured troops from debarkation exercises.

10 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0100       1200     Lat. 15°-40'-48" S., Long. 162°-36'-00" E.
                    Course made good - - 353°.
                    Speed made good - - 12.3 knots.

0150       1250     Changed course and axis to 010°.

0300       1400     Stationed all troops at their debarkation stations.

0328       1428     Secured troops from debarkation exercises.

0445       1545     USS SHAW joined Task Force. 

0543       1643     Ceased zig-zagging while USS SHAW transferred mail to USS 
                    McCAWLEY.

0607       1707     Commenced zig-zagging.

0716       1816     Darkened ship (sunset).

0737       1837     Held recognition signal drill with other ships of
                    convoy.

0800       1900     Ceased zig-zagging.

0800       2000     Lat. 14°-04'-30" S., Long. 162°-57'-00" E. 
                    Set Material Condition Affirm.

                    Transport Group 67.1, composed of USS McCAWLEY and USS 
                    CRESENT CITY in starboard column, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON 
                    and USS PRESIDENT ADAMS in port column, distance 600 
                    yards, interval 1000 yards. Destroyer screen on station 
                    ahead and on both flanks, USS PORTLAND on port quarter 
                    (cruising disposition AC-1). Ship darkened and in 
                    Condition of Readiness 311, Material Condition Affirm. 
                    Course; and axis 010°, speed 13.0 knots.

1800       0500     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material Condition 
                    Affirm.  Commenced zig-zagging.

1805       0505     Sighted eight ships bearing 068°.  Identified as Task 
                    Group 67.4.

1830       0530     Ceased zig-zagging.

1833       0533     Changed course and axis to 330°.

1834       0534     Commenced zig-zagging (sunrise).

1835       0535     USS JUNEAU and USS PORTLAND left formation and joined 
                    Task Group 67.4.

1854       0554     Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 
                    III, Material Condition Bakes.  Lighted ship.

1910       0610     Ceased zig-zagging while USS SHAW delivered Secret Mail 
                    to ships of Task Group 67.1.

1926       0626     USS SHAW alongside, delivered ComTaskForoe 67's Secret 
                    Letters -- Serial No. 00388 and No. 00389, pertaining 
                    to operations at Cactus on 12 November 1942.

2100       0800     Lat. 11°-40'-30" S., Long. 162°-54'-30" E.

           A.M.     Made all preparations for disembarking troops.

2253       0953     Sighted San Cristobal Island, Solomon Group bearing 315°, 
                    distant about 30 miles.

11 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0047       1147     Sighted unidentified aircraft bearing 180°, reported by 
                    CTF 67 as an enemy plane shadowing the convoy.

0059       1159     Enemy aircraft disappeared bearing 260°.

0100       1200     Lat. 11°-19'-30" S., Long. 162°-12'-00" 
                    Speed made good - - 12.1 knots.
                    Course made good - - 354.5°,

           P.M.     Continued making preparations for pending operations.

0247       1347     Exercised at Emergency Turns on signal from CTF 67.

0308       1408     Secured from Emergency Turn Exercise and resumed 
                    zig-zagging.

0310       1410     Stationed all troops at their debarkation stations.

0320       1420     Escort Destroyer had sound contact on starboard quarter. 
                    Dropped two depth charges.

0330       1430     Ceased zig-zagging.

0332       1432     Changed course and axis to 305°.

0340       1440     Commenced zig-zagging.

0346       1446     Secured troops from debarkation exercise.

0405       1505     Navy Passengers hold debarkation exercises.
                    Secured when all men mustered at stations.

0716        1816    Darkened ship (sunset).

0730       1830     Changed course to 358° true, and formed approach 
                    disposition with USS McCAWLEY (guide and OTC), USS 
                    CRESCENT CITY USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, and USS PRESIDENT 
                    ADAMS in column that order, distance 600 yards
                    Destroyers ahead and on both flanks.

0900       2000     Lat. 10°-28'-00" S., Long. 161°-09'-20" E. 
                    Set Condition of Readiness II.

1200       2300     Changed course to 333°.

                    Steaming in company with units of Task Force 67, 
                    Transport Group 67.1, in Approach Disposition, in column 
                    in the following order: USS McCAWLEY USS CRESCENT CITY, 
                    USS PRESIDENT JACKSON and USS PRESIDENT ADAMS, distance 
                    600 yards, escort destroyers ahead and an both flanks. 
                    Speed 13.0 knots, course 333°. Ship darkened and in 
                    Condition of Readiness II, Material Condition Affirm
                    approaching Lengo channel from the southeast. Task Group 
                    67.4 ahead about twenty miles covering approach.

1403       0103     Changed course to 280°.

1415       0115     Emergency Turn 45° to left, to course 235°. Leading 
                    escort destroyer reported via Task Force frequency on TBY
                    that enemy submarine was on surface 5000 yards on 
                    starboard beam. She put searchlight target and opened 
                    fire, fired two salvos. Two destroyers on starboard 
                    side made depth charge attacks dropping six depth charges 
                    an contact.

1420       0120     Resumed base course 280°.

1520       0220     Changed course to 270° and steamed on various courses to 
                    enter Longo Channel.

1600       0300     Went to General quarters. 

1650       0350     Entered Lengo Channel.

1702       0402     Set Condition I-A.

1815       0515     Changed course to 235° and stood into Kukom Anchorage,
                    Lunga Point, Guadalcanal.

1830       0530     All troops manned their debarkation stations.

1844       0544     Anchored 600 yards, bearing 270°, from Kukom.
                    Commenced lowering all boats.

1856       0556     Commenced debarking troops. All boats in the water except
                    Tank Lighters Nos. 1 & 2.

1908       0608     Tank Lighters Nos. 1 & 2 in water.

1945       0645     Near Miss about 50 - 100 yards off of port quarter from 
                    shore based battery.

1950       0650     Commenced discharging cargo.

2100       0800     Anchored 600 yards off of Kukom, Guadalcanal Island, 
                    Solomon Group.

           A.M.     Discharged ammunition and equipment of the 182nd Infantry, 
                    Company "C", 57th Engineers, U.S. Army; 4th Replacement 
                    Battalion, and Battery L, 11th Marines.  Ship Condition 
                    I-A.  Units of Task Group 67.4 shelled Jap positions on 
                    the beach throughout the morning.

12 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0100       1200     Anchored 600 yards off Kukom, Guadalcanal Island, Solomon 
                    Group.

           P.M.     Continued discharging cargo.  Units of Task Group 67.4
                    Shelled Jap positions on the beach intermittently 
                    throughout the afternoon.

0220       1320     Received urgent signal from CTF-67 to get underway and 
                    prepare to repel air attack.

0221       1321     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material Condition 
                    Affirm.  Cast off all boats alongside the ship.

0226       1326     Anchor aweigh.  Ship underway to form astern of USS
                    McCAWLEY distance 1000 yards.  Transports formed in two 
                    columns with USS McCAWLEY, USS CRESCENT CITY and USS 
                    BETELGUESE in that order in the left column; and USS 
                    PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS PRESDIDENT ADAMS and USS LIBRA in 
                    the right column.  Units of Task Group 67.4 formed around 
                    the Transport Group (67.1) and steamed on course 340°, at 
                    14 knots.

0230       1330     Advised that approximately 30 enemy torpedo planes were 
                    approaching from over Florida Island.

0250       1350     Commenced maneuvering by 90° turns to the right or left 
                    on signal from CTF-67.

0305       1405     Sighted group of low flying planes approaching from over 
                    Florida Island.

0310       1410     Identified planes as enemy torpedo planes, approaching in 
                    two groups, one of eight and another of four.  CTF-67 
                    immediately turned away from the approaching planes in 
                    order to expose the minimum target to the approaching 
                    torpedo planes.

0312       1412     All ships commenced firing on enemy planes.  All of the 
                    enemy torpedo planes made their approach at an altitude 
                    of about 30 to 50 feet above the water.  Only one torpedo 
                    was actually observed and it tumbled.  The planes passed 
                    alongside of this ship parallel to our course and in same 
                    direction, our change of course having put them out of 
                    position.  Two bombers burst into flames and crashed on 
                    our port side due to A.A. gun fire from this and adjacent 
                    ships.  The port engine of third burst into flames and 
                    headed for the beach held by the Japs, crashing into the 
                    water before getting there.  Another group of nine planes 
                    came in low over Lunga Point and approached us from 
                    astern.  Our observers reported twelve (12) torpedo 
                    bombers were shot down by the ships of Task Force 67, and 
                    four (4) were seen to be shot down by our fighters after 
                    they got clear of the ships.  One plane was hit by the 
                    USS SAN FRANCISCO and appeared to crashed into her after 
                    fire control station.  Flames appeared in that vicinity 
                    of the ship.  However the plane fell over the port side 
                    clear.  The flames were quickly extinguished and any 
                    damage suffered by her was not determined by this ship.

0327       1427     Planes having been repelled, CTF-67 maneuvered ships by 
                    90° turns to the transport area off of Kukom.

0420       1520     Anchored in transport area.

0425       1525     All boats back alongside.  Commenced discharging cargo.

0428       1528     Secured from General Quarters, set Condition I-A.

0630       1730     Ceased discharging cargo and commenced closing hatches 
                    and hoisting remaining boats aboard.

0645       1745     Sent remaining troops ashore.

0725       1825     All boats aboard.  Ship ready for getting underway.

0730       1830     Anchor aweigh.  Steamed on various courses and speeds to 
                    from Retirement Disposition.

0745       1845     Secured from Condition I-A, set Condition of Readiness 
                    III, Material Condition Affirm.  Darkened ship.

0747       1847     Ships of Transport Group formed astern of the USS 
                    McCAWLEY distance 600 yards, speed 14.0 knots, in the 
                    following order: USS McCAWLEY, USS CRESCENT CITY, USS 
                    BETELGUESE, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS PRERSIDENT ADAMS, 
                    and UUS LIBRA, with escort destroyers ahead and on both 
                    flanks.  Task Force 67.4 covering retirement of Task 
                    Group 67.1.  Steamed on various courses to enter the mine 
                    swept portion of Lengo Channel.

0817       1917     Entered Lengo Channel.

0825       1925     Changed course to 090°.

0900       2000     Lat. 09°-22'-36" S., Long. 160°-21'-12" E.

0910       2010     Left Lengo Channel.

0919       2019     Changed course to 102°.

0930       2030     Changed course to 135°.

1114       2214     Passed Nura Island abeam to port, distance about four (4) 
                    miles.

1215       2315     Passed Malapa Island abeam to starboard, distance about 5 
                    miles.

1232       2332     Changed course to 165°.

                    Steaming in company with units of Task Force 67, 
                    Transport Group 67.1 in Retirement Disposition, in 
                    column, in the following order: USS McCAWLEY, USS 
                    CRESCENT CITY, USS BETELGUESE, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS 
                    PRESIDENT ADAMS, and USS LIBRA, distance 600 yards.  
                    Escort Destroyers ahead and on both flanks.  Task Group 
                    67.4 covering retirement.  Ship darken and in Condition 
                    of Readiness III, Material Condition Affirm.  Speed 14.0 
                    knots, Course 165°.

1442       0142     Changed course 140°.

1627       0327     Changed course 125°.

1800       0500     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material Condition 
                    Affirm.

1819       0519     Changed course 145°.

1820       0520     Formed Cruising Disposition AC-1 in the following order; 
                    Right column, USS McCAWLEY, USS CRESCENT CITY, USS 
                    BETELGUESE; Left column, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS 
                    PRESIDENT ADAMA, USS LIBRA, distance 600 yards, interval 
                    1000 yards.  Escort destroyers ahead and on both flanks.

1830       0530     Commenced zig-zagging.

1840       0540     Sunrise.

1847       0547     Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 
                    III, Material Condition Affirm.  Lighted ship.

1918       0618     Sighted two planes, one bearing 135° and the other 
                    bearing 310°.  Identified as friendly (B-17E's).

2100       0800     Lat. 11°-15'-00" S., Long. 162°-02'-00" E.

           A.M.     All ship's company turned to, cleaned up ship and stowed 
                    gear following operations of previous day.

2334       1034     Sighted plane bearing 069°.  Identified as friendly.

13 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0100       1200     Lat. 11°-55'-00" S., Long. 162°-34'-00" E.
                    Course made good - - 149°.
                    Speed made good - - 13.5 knots.

           P.M.     Continued cleaning up ship.  Sighted aircraft throughout 
                    the afternoon all identified as friendly.

0200       1300     Half-masted Colors while USS PRESIDENT JACKSON held 
                    burial services.

0220       1320     USS PRESIDENT JACKSON and all ships in company two 
                    blocked their Colors.  USS PRESIDENT JACKSON having 
                    completed burial services.

0556       1656     Ceased zig-zagging.

0600       1700     Changed course to 110°.

0610       1710     Commenced zig-zagging.

0712       1812     Darkened ship (sunset).

0900       2000     Lat. 13°-00'-00" S.,  Long. 163°-45'-30" E.

1200       2300     Ceased zig-zagging (moonset).

                    Steaming in company with unite of Task Force 67, 
                    Transport Group 67.1, in Cruising Disposition AC-1 in the 
                    following orders: right column --USS McCAWLEY, USS 
                    CRESCENT CITY, USS BETELGUESE; left column -- USS 
                    PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS PRESIDENT ADAMS, USS LIBRA, 
                    distance 600 yards, interval 1000 yards, Escort 
                    Destroyers ahead and on both flanks. Speed 14.0 knots, 
                    course 110°.  Ship darkened and in Condition of Readiness 
                    III, Material Condition Affirm.

1400       0100     Changed course to 120°.

1745       0445     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material Condition 
                    Affirm.  Commenced zig-zagging.

1831       0531     Secured from General quarters, set Condition of Readiness 
                    III, Material Condition Baker.  Lighted ship (sunrise).

2054       0754     Ceased zig-zagging.

2110       0800     Lat. 14°-10'-00" S.,  Long. 166°-10'-00" E.

2102       0802     Commenced zig-zagging.

2110       0810     Changed speed to 13.0 knots. 

2120       0820     Sighted Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, 
                    bearing 127°, distant about 25 miles.

2130       0830     Sighted two (2) Cruisers and three (3) destroyers, 
                    identified as unit of Task force 64.

2324       1024     Ceased zig-zagging.

2325       1025     Changed course and axis to 050°.

14 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0015       1115     Ceased zig-zagging.

0020       1120     Changed course and axis to 090°.

0027       1127     Commenced zig-zagging.

0100       1200     Lat. 14°-31'-30" S.,  Long. 166°-30'20" E.
                    Course made good - - 125°.
                    Speed made good - - 12.0 knots.

0159       1259     Ceased zig-zagging.

0201       1301     Changed course and axis to 120°.

0207       1307     Commenced zigzagging.

0457       1557     Ceased zig-zagging.

0500       1600     Changed course and axis to 090°.

0507       1607     Commenced zig-zagging.

0530       1630     Sighted Gaua Island bearing 010°, distant about 16 miles.

0644       1744     Darkened ship (sunset).

0900       2000     Lat. 14°-36'-00" S.,  Long. 167°-47'-00" E.

1040       2140     Ceased zig-zagging.

1045       2145     Formed column in the following order: USS McCAWLEY, USS 
                    CRESCENT CITY, USS BETELGUESE, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS 
                    PRESIDENT ADAMS, USS LIBRA, distance 600 yards.

1100       2200     Changed course to 170°.

1110       2220     Changed course to 260°.

1120       2220     Slowed to two-thirds speeds and formed Cruising 
                    Disposition AC-1.

1145       2245     Changed speed to standard, 13.0 knots, and commenced zig-
                    zagging.

1255       2355     Ceased zig-zagging.

1300       2400     Changed course and axis to 210°.

                    Steaming in company with Task Group 67.1, Transports 
                    disposed in two columns as follows: USS McCAWLEY, USS 
                    CRESCENT CITY , USS BETELGUESE in right column; USS 
                    PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS PRESIDENT ADAMS, USS LIBRA in left 
                    column, distance 600 yards, interval 1000 yards.  Ship 
                    darkened and in Condition of Readiness III, Material 
                    Condition Affirm.  Course 210°, speed 13.0 knots.

1730       0430     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material Condition 
                    Affirm.

1740       0440     Sighted Espiritu Santo Island bearing 250°, distant about 
                    10 miles.

1805       0505     Changed course to 270° and formed in column in the 
                    following order: USS McCAWLEY, USS CRESCENT CITY , USS 
                    BETELGUESE, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS PRESIDENT ADAMS, 
                    USS LIBRA, distance 600 yards.

1814       0514     Steamed on various courses and speeds following the 
                    movements of the USS McCAWLEY to enter Segond Channel.

1835       0535     Entered Segond Channel.

1845       0545     Entered mine field.

1855       0555     Left mine field, changed course to 270° and proceeded to 
                    assign berth.

1904       0604     Anchored 800 yards east of assigned anchorage.
                    Berth assigned being occupied.

1950       0650     Anchor aweigh.  Underway on various courses and speeds to 
                    shift berth.

2000       0700     Dissolved Task Force 67 in accordance with CTF 67 
                    Dispatch No. 142000.

2008       0708     Anchored in Berth A-10 in Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo 
                    Island, New Hebrides Group.

15 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0110       1210     Set Condition I-A.

0112       1212     Stationed all Special Sea Details.

0130       1230     Anchor aweigh.  Steamed on various courses and speeds 
                    shifting berths with the USS BETELGUESE.

0304       1404     Anchored in Berth B-8, Segond Channel.  Commenced 
                    transferring remainder of cargo on board to USS LIBRA.

0308       1408     Secured Special Sea Details.

0657       1757     Darkened Ship (sunset).
                    Unloaded cargo throughout the night.

                    Anchored in Berth B-8, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo 
                    Island, New Hebrides Group.  Ship darkened, except for 
                    Blue Cargo Lights, and set in Condition I-A, Material 
                    Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 64, and numerous 
                    merchant ships present.

1830       0530     Stationed all Special Sea Details.

1851       0551     Anchor aweigh.  Underway on various and speeds to go 
                    alongside the USS TAPPAHANNOCK to fuel.

1952       0652     First line out to USS TAPPAHANNOCK.

1955       0655     Moored, port side to, alongside USS TAPPAHANNOCK.

2023       0723     Commenced fueling ship.

2130       0830     Completed unloading all cargo.  Secured from Condition 
                    I-A, set Condition of Readiness III.  Commenced hoisting 
                    all boats in water not required.

2215       0915     Completed fueling.  Received 3433 barrels of fuel oil.

2250       0950     Stationed all Special Sea Details.

2305       1005     Cast off from USS TAPPAHANNOCK and steamed on various 
                    courses and speeds to return to anchorage.

2331       1031     Anchored in Berth B-8, Segond Channel.

2335       1035     Secured Special Sea Details main engines and steering 
                    engine.

16 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0100       1200     Sent twenty-man working party to USS BETELGUESE to 
                    assist in loading.

           P.M.     Continued cleaning up holds and stowing gear.

0300       1400     Received CTF 62's Dispatch No. 160110, advising this 
                    ship to be prepared to get underway at 0600, 17 November 
                    1942.

0620       1720     Received CTF 62's Dispatch No. 160427, pertaining to 
                    future movement of this Task Force.

0630       1730     Transferred 225 crews mattresses to USS NASSAU.

0657       1757     Darkened ship (sunset).

0700       1800     Commenced taking aboard empty powder tanks from USS 
                    GUADALUPE.

1209       2309     Completed taking aboard 1600 empty powder tanks from 
                    USS GUADALUPE.

1239       2339     Twenty-man working party returned from USS BETELGUESE.

                    Anchored in Berth B-8, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo 
                    Island, New Hebrides Group.  Ship darkened except for 
                    blue cargo lights, and set in Condition I-A, Material 
                    Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 64, and numerous 
                    merchants ships present.

1818       0518     Lighted ship (sunrise).

1835       0535     Station all special sea details.

1900       0600     Anchor aweigh.  Underway on various courses and speeds 
                    to stand out of Segond Channel in company with Task 
                    Group 62.6.

1945       0645     Left Segond Channel and steadied on course 115°, speed 
                    13.0 knots, USS McCAWLEY, USS CRESCENT CITY; Left 
                    column, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS PRESIDENT ADAMS, 
                    distance 600 yards, interval 1000 yards.  USS O'BANNON 
                    and USS SOUTHARD on screening stations ahead.

1948       0648     Secured all special sea details, set Condition of 
                    Readiness III.

2025       0725     Commenced zig-zagging.

2100       0800     Lat. 15°-39'-40" S.,  Long. 167°-23'-30" E.

           A.M.     All hands turned to cleaning up holds and repairing 
                    boats and gear.

2237       0937     Ceased zig-zagging.

2245       0945     Changed course and axis to 170°.

2302       1002     Commenced zig-zagging.

17 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0051       1151     Ceased zig-zagging.

0055       1155     Changed course and axis to 145°.

0059       1159     Commenced zig-zagging.

0100       1200     Lat. 16°-15'-30" S.,  Long. 167°-49'-15" E.

           P.M.     Continued cleaning up holds and repairing boats and 
                    gear.

0223       1323     Ceased zig-zagging.

0226       1326     Changed course and axis to 180°.

0238       1338     Commenced zig-zagging.

0310       1410     Ceased zig-zagging.

0315       1415     Changed course and axis to 212°.

0325       1425     Commenced zig-zagging.

0657       1757     Darkened ship (sunset).

0750       1850     Ceased zig-zagging.

0755       1855     Changed course and axis to 165°.

0810       1910     Commenced zig-zagging.

0900       2000     Lat. 17°-44'-40" S.,  Long. 167°-30'-50" E.

                    Steaming in company with Task Group 62.6, USS McCAWLEY 
                    (OTC), USS CRESCENT CITY, in right column; USS PRESIDENT 
                    JACKSON, USS PRESIDENT ADAMS in left column.  Distance 
                    600 yards, interval 1000 yards.  USS O'BANNON and USS 
                    SOUTHARD in screening position ahead.  Ship darkened and 
                    set in Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition 
                    Affirm.  Zig-zagging on course 165°, speed 13.0 knots.

1500       0200     Ceased zig-zagging (moonset).

1720       0420     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material Condition 
                    Affirm.

1730       0430     Commenced zig-zagging.

1801       0501     Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of 
                    Readiness III, Material Condition Baker.  Lighted ship 
                    (sunrise).

2100       0800     Lat. 20°-04'-40" S.,  Long. 168°-06'-00" E.

2200       0900     Exercised at Fire Drill, first steam over the side in 
                    fifty-five (55) seconds.

2203       0903     Secured from Fire Drill.

2210       0910     Exercised at Collision Drill.  Mat ready for going over 
                    the side in four (4) minutes.

2216       0916     Secured from Collision Drill.

2220       0920     Exercised at Abandon Ship Drill.

2230       0930     Secured from Abandon Ship Drill.

18 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0100       1200     Lat. 20°-44'-00" S.,  Long. 168°-17'30" E.
                    Course made good - - 175°.
                    Speed made good - - 11.6 knots.

0245       1345     Sighted Mare Island bearing 222° distant about forty-five 
                    (45) miles.

0258       1358     Ceased zig-zagging.

0305       1405     Commenced 20mm anti-aircraft gun fire drill.  Fired a 
                    burst from No. 1 gun every three minutes and the 20mm 
                    guns would fire on the shell burst.  Fired eight burst 
                    targets.  Expended 8 rounds of 3"/23 cal. SPDM, and 540 
                    rounds of 20mm anti-aircraft ammunition.

0330       1430     Secured from 20mm anti-aircraft gun fire drill.

0335       1435     Commenced zig-zagging.

0445       1545     Ceased zig-zagging.

0449       1549     Changed course and axis to 195°.

0451       1551     Commenced zig-zagging.

0707       1807     Darkened ship (sunset).

0739       1839     Exercised at emergency turn drill, using "Mersigs".

0800       1900     Secured from emergency turn drill and resumed zig-
                    zagging.

0900       2000     Lat. 22°-27'-00" S.,  Long. 168°-13'30" E.

1155       2255     Ceased zig-zagging.

1200       2300     Changed course and axis to 247°.

1215       2315     Commenced zig-zagging.

                    Steaming in company with Task Group 62.6, USS McCAWLEY 
                    (OTC), USS CRESCENT CITY, in right column; USS PRESIDENT 
                    JACKSON, USS PRESIDENT ADAMS in left column.  Distance 
                    600 yards, interval 1000 yards.  USS O'BANNON and USS 
                    SOUTHARD in screening position ahead.  Ship darkened and 
                    set in Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition 
                    Affirm.  Zig-zagging on course 247°, speed 13.0 knots.

1530       0230     Ceased zig-zagging (moonset).

1630       0330     Changed course and axis to 280°.

1650       0350     Changed course and axis to 215°.

1715       0415     Commenced zig-zagging.

1720       0420     Went to General Quarters, maintained Material Condition 
                    Affirm.

1800       0500     Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of 
                    Readiness III, Material Condition Baker.  Lighted ship 
                    (sunrise).

2010       0710     Sighted Amedee Island Light House bearing 325°, distance 
                    about eight (8) miles.

2100       0800     Lat. 22°-44'-10" S.,  Long. 166°-24'00" E.

2111       0811     Ceased zig-zagging.

2113       0813     Changed course and axis to 000°.

2133       0833     Changed course to 050° and formed in column in the 
                    following order, to enter Bulari Passage: USS McCAWLEY, 
                    USS CRESCENT CITY, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS PRESIDENT 
                    ADAMS, distance 600 yards.

2156       0856     Entered Bulari Passage and steamed on various courses 
                    and speeds to conform to the channel, following the 
                    movements of the USS McCAWLEY.

2338       1038     Anchored in Berth No. 22, Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New 
                    Caledonia.

2344       1044     Secured all special sea details, main engines, and 
                    steering engine.

19 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0000       1100     Commenced transferring cargo of 1600 empty powder cans 
                    to USS LASSEN.

0224       1324     Transferred 36 Marine casual, evacuated from Cactus, to 
                    Marine Hospital ashore.

0718       1818     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Defense Condition of Readiness 
                    III, Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 
                    62, and numerous other ships present.

1803       0503     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     All hands turned to and made repairs to ship's gear.  
                    Continued routine work.

           P.M.     Continued overhauling gear and making necessary repairs.

20 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0200       1300     Granted shore leave and liberty to five percent (5%) of 
                    ship's complement.  Held inspection of all lower deck 
                    compartments.

0415       1515     Secured from lower deck inspection.

0600       1700     Liberty expired.

0718       1818     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1802       0502     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     Made preparations for Captain's Inspection.

2300       1000     Captain's Inspection of Personnel and Crews Living 
                    Spaces.

21 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0015       1115     Secured from Captain's Inspection.

           P.M.     All hands turned to overhauling gear and cleaning up the 
                    ship.

0200       1300     Granted shore leave and liberty to five percent (5%) of 
                    ship's complement.

0600       1700     Liberty expired.

0718       1818     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1803       0503     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     Made all preparations for receiving troops aboard.  
                    Continued repairing boats and all cargo handling.

           P.M.     Continued making preparations for receiving troops 
                    aboard.

22 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0700       1800     Received aboard 2100 rounds of High Explosive - - Non-
                    tracer and 1980 rounds of Tracer 20mm ammunition from 
                    the USS LASSEN.

0720       1820     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1800       0500     Turned over Main Engines.

1803       0503     Lighted ship (sunrise).

1830       0530     All departments ready for getting underway.  Commenced 
                    heaving around.

1845       0545     Underway on various and speeds to shift berths to Grand 
                    Quay, Noumea.

2001       0701     Passed through Anti-submarine net, Little Entrance, 
                    Noumea Harbor.

2030       0730     Moored starboard side to Grand Quay, Noumea, New 
                    Caledonia.

2100       0800     Commenced embarking personnel of 247th Field Artillery, 
                    101st Medical Company, Division Headquarter Company, 68th 
                    Pursuit Squadron, and 39th M.P. Company, U.S. Army.

2115       0815     Commenced loading equipment of embarked troops.

2353       1053     Received aboard 100 - 5"/51 caliber common projectiles 
                    from the USS AGONNE.

           P.M.     Loaded army equipment and cargo.

23 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0720       1820     Darkened ship (sunset).

0930       2030     Completed loading equipment and cargo of embarked Army 
                    Units.

                    Moored starboard side to Grand Quary, Noumea, New 
                    Caledonia.  Ship darkened and set in Harbor Condition of 
                    Readiness III, Material Condition Baker.

1730       0430     Turned over Main Engines.

1803       0503     Lighted ship (sunrise).

1825       0525     All departments ready for getting underway, singled up 
                    lines.

1836       0536     Cast off all lines, underway on various courses and 
                    speeds to shift berth.

1906       0606     Passed through Anti-submarine net, Little Entrance.

2008       0708     Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, in berth 
                    no. 22.

2015       0715     Secured all special sea details.

           A.M.     Stowed all loose gear about the decks.  Made holds ready 
                    for sea.
24 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0200       1300     Granted liberty for five percent (5%) of the crew.

0230       1330     Set Condition I-A.

0243       1343     Commenced lowering boats.

0300       1400     Stationed all troops at their debarkation stations.

0305       1405     Commenced debarking troops.

0320       1420     Commenced embarking troops.

0415       1515     Secured from Condition I-A, set Harbor Condition of 
                    Readiness III.

0720       1820     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1801       0501     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     Made necessary repairs to boats and cargo handling gear.  
                    Continued cleaning up ship.

           P.M.     Continued making repairs to boats and cargo handling 
                    gear.

25 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0300       1400     Stationed troops at abandon ship stations.

0330       1430     Exercised ship's company at abandon ship drill.

0340       1440     Secured troops from abandon ship drill.

0345       1445     Secured ship's company from abandon ship drill.  
                    Stationed Ship's Rescue Party at a abandon ship 
                    stations.

0400       1500     Secured all hands from abandon ship drill.

0720       1820     Darkened ship (sunset).

0821       1921     Secured from Fire Drill.

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1801       0501     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     Continued making necessary repairs to boats and making 
                    preparation for future operations.

2309       1009     Exercised at fire drill.  First stream of water at scene 
                    of fire in one (1) minute.

2328       1028     Secured from fire drill.

2333       1033     Exercised at collision drill.  Mat ready for going over 
                    the side in six (6) minutes.

2340       1040     Secured from collision drill.

2342       1042     Away Fire and Rescue Party.

2400       1100     Secured Fire and Rescue Party.  Secured from emergency 
                    drills.

           P.M.     Continued ship's work.

26 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0720       1820     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1802       0502     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     Ship's company continued making necessary repairs to 
                    Boats.  Made preparation for future operations.

27 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0200       1300     Held Lower Deck Inspection.

0300       1400     Stationed all troops at their debarkation stations.

0346       1446     Secured troops from debarkation exercises.

0722       1822     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1803       0503     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     Continued ship's work.

2300       1000     Stationed troops at abandon ship stations.

28 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0005       1105     Secured troops from abandon ship stations.

0010       1110     Stationed ship's company, less Ship's Rescue Detail at 
                    abandon ship stations.

0025       1125     Stationed Ship's Rescue Detail at abandon ship stations.

0045       1145     Secured from abandon ship drill.

           P.M.     Continued ship's work.

0200       1300     Liberty for five percent (5%) of Crew.

0245       1345     Set Condition I-A for troops only.

0301       1401     Troops manned debarkation stations.

0328       1428     Secured troops from debarkation exercises.

0722       1822     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1843       0503     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     Ship's company continued repairing boats and cargo 
                    handling gear, and making preparations for pending 
                    operations.

           P.M.     Continued ship's work.

29 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0200       1340     Liberty for five percent (5%) of Crew.

0723       1823     Darkened ship (sunset).

                    Anchored in Dumbea Bay, Noumea, New Caledonia, ship 
                    darkened and in Harbor Condition of Readiness III, 
                    Material Condition Affirm.  Ships of Task Force 61, 62, 
                    and numerous other ships present.

1802       0502     Lighted ship (sunrise).

           A.M.     Continued ship's work.

2200       0900     Set Condition I-A.

2215       0915     Commenced scheduled exercises.  Lowered all boats into 
                    water.

2230       0930     Commenced debarking troops.

2300       1000     Commenced re-embarking troops.

30 Nov
G.C.T.    L.C.T.
0015       1115     Secured from Condition I-A, set Harbor Condition of 
                    Readiness III.

           P.M.     Continued ship's work.

0200       1300     Liberty for five percent (5%) of crew.

0723       1823     Darkened ship (sunset).

                                                         L.B. DUNLAP,
                                                   Lieutenant, DE-V(G), USNR,
J.R.S.                                                     Navigator.

War Diary for month of
November, 1942, approved:

    J.R. SULLIVAN,
Captain, U.S. Navy,
    Commanding.



ACTION REPORT
USS CRESCENT CITY	                                          AP-40

SERIAL 080                                                  13 NOVEMBER 1942

           FIRING ON FRIENDLY PLANES

               REPORT OF FIRING ON FRIENDLY PLANES 
               APPROACHING GUADALCANAL DESPITE 
               REPEATED ORDERS NOT TO FIRE.



REFER TO FILE 
AP40/A16-3
14-Ks
Serial SD/TS133

U. S. S. CRESCENT CITY (AP40)
November 13, 1942. From: The Commanding Officer. To: Commander Task Force 67. Subject: Firing on Friendly Planes. Reference: (a) Comtaskfor 67 despatch 112330 of November, 1942. Enclosure: (A) Gunnery Department Order No. 18. 1. On November 12, 1942, this ship was in Condition I-A, unloading cargo. The status of guns was as follows: (a) 20 mm guns manned. (b) 3"23 caliber guns not manned. One gunner's mate, and one talker were present at each of the two 3" groups. (c) In addition there were four .50 caliber machine guns temporarily mounted and manned by USMC troops on board for passage. 2. At about 1016, anti-aircraft fire on planes approaching Cactus was observed. These planes were identified as friendly by the Air Control officer who passed word over the gun circuits, "Do not fire, do not fire". These planes were also identified as friendly by the Commanding Officer and other persons on the bridge. No alarm nor alert was sounded in this ship. However, some of the members of gun crews of 3" guns #1 and 2 working at forward hatches, saw the AA fire and manned their guns. Apparently excited, they loaded gun #2 and fired one round before they recognized the planes. "Cease firing" was ordered immediately by the Commanding Officer. 3. The sky deck caliber .50 machine gun fired 12 rounds before the crews of adjacent 20 mm guns pulled the gunner away from the gun. 4. The after main deck caliber .50 machine gun fired 7 rounds before being stopped by the gunner's mate of the after 3" group. 5. While the ship's order relative to commencing fire, (enclosure A), should have prevented the unauthorized firing, the Commanding Officer regrets that he did not immediately broadcast over the loud speaker systems that the planes were friendly. 6. Gunner's mates stationed at the 3" groups have been instructed that, when the ship is in Condition I-A, they are not to permit loading of their guns unless the alarm has been sounded. J.R. SULLIVAN.
U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY
July 13, 1942
GUNNERY DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. 18
Subject: Commence Firing Procedure. 1. Normally, "Commence Firing" is transmitted from the Commanding Officer through the Control Officer to the guns. 2. When the CRESCEUT CITY is directly attacked by aircraft, submarine, or surface vessel, unmistakibly hostile, the gunner or gun captain may order "Commence Firing," as necessary. 3. Where there is any doubt as to the identity of the unknown craft, its approach shall be reported promptly, and fire shall not be opened until the craft is identified or word is received through normal channels. 4. Guns manned by Larine personnel receive their orders from the Marine battery officer who in turn shall receive his orders from the Control Officer. L.O. SMITH, Lieutenant, USNR, Gunnery Officer. APPROVED: I. N. KILAND, Captain, U.S. Navy, Commanding.
ACTION REPORT
USS CRESCENT CITY AP-40 SERIAL 082 18 NOVEMBER 1942 ACTION AGAINST JAPANESE AIRCRAFT, GUADALCANAL TULAGI AREA, REPORT OF. REPORT COVERS ACTION FROM 1405 TO 1427 OPERATINGIN TASK GROUP 67.1 COMPOSED OF THE MC CAWLEY, BETELGUESE, PERSIDENT JACKSON, PRESIDENT ADAMS, AND LIBRA DISCHARGING PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT OF THE 182ND INFANTRY AT KUKUM. UNLOADING OPERATIONS RESUMED AT 1525.(C.0. J.R. SULLIVAN) REFER TO FILE AP40/ A16-3 10-cg Serial No. 082
U. S. S. CRESCENT CITY (AP40)
November 18, 1942. C O N F I D E N T I A L From: The Commanding Officer. To : The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET. Via : (1) The Commander Task Group 67.1. (2) The Commander Task Force SIXTY-S EVEN. (3) The Commander SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE. Subject: Report of Action Against Japanese Aircraft in GUADALCANAL - TULAGI Area, SOLOMON ISLAND, on November 12, 1942. Reference: (a) Articles 712(2),(3), and 874(6) U.S. Navy Regulations, 1920. Enclosure: (A) Report of Executive Officer, U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY. 1. On November 12, 1942, this ship while in company with Task Force 67, Task Group 67.1, composed of the U.S.S. McCAWLEY, U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY, U.S.S. PRESIDENT JACKSON, and U.S.S. PRESIDENT ADAMS, was anchored 500 yards west of KUKUM, GUADALCANAL, Solomon Group with SAVO Island bearing 325 degrees true, discharging personnel and equipment of the 182nd Infantry, U.S.A., 4th Replacement Battalion, U.S.M.C., and Battery "L", 11th Marines. At 1320 we received a signal from ComTaskFor.67 to get underway and prepare to repel an air attack. The CRESENT CITY immediately went to General Quarters, maintained Condition Afirm, and got underway. 2. Upon getting underway, this snip formed in special cruising disposition 1,000 yards astern of the U.S.S. McCAWLEY, with other ships of the Task Force disposed as follows: Transport Group 67.1 was in two columns with the U.S.S. McCAWLEY, U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY, and U.S.S. BETELGEUSE in the left column; U.S.S. PRESIDENT JACKSON, U.S.S. PRESIDENT ADAMS, and U.S.S. LIBRA in the right column. The BETELGUESE and LIBRA (Task Group 62.4) were discharging cargo east of LUNGA POINT and joined us by order of ComTaskFor.67 in order to gain the protection of our screen. Distance was 1,000 yards, interval 1,000 yards. The screening destroyers and cruisers of Task Group 67.4 were dispersed ahead, astern, and on both flanks to offer a more concentrated anti-aircraft protection for the transport group. 3. The formation course and axis was 340 degrees true, speed fourteen (14) knots and the task force began maneuvering in accordance with 90 degree turn signals from ComTaskFor.67, O.T.C., in the U.S.S. McCAWLEY as soon as the special cruising disposition was formed. 4. At 1355 we received, via TBY radio, the information that approximately thirty (30) enemy torpedo bombers were approaching from over FLORIDA ISLAND, and were still about fifty (50) miles distant, due over about 1415. The sea was calm with broken clouds to the Westward. To the Eastward hazy rain clouds hung low over the islands. However, FLORIDA ISLAND was plainly visible. 5. The CRESCENT CITY had the following batteries manned: One (1) - 5"/51 Cal. gun, four (4) - 3"/23 Cal. guns, four (4) - ,50 Cal. machine guns, and eight (8) - 20mm anti-aircraft guns. The .50 Cal. machine guns were manned by personnel of Battery "L", 11th Marines. 6. The attack developed as follows: At 1405, sighted two groups of enemy planes approaching in Vee formations of eight (8) and seven (7) planes respectively, from over FLORIDA ISLAND and at an altitude of a few hundred feet, bearing 055 degrees true, distant about ten (10) miles. Immediately after passing over FLORIDA ISLAND, they lost altitude rapidly and came down to a level of approximately thirty (30) to fifty (50) feet above the water surface. The planes approached the transport formation from a bearing of about 160 degrees relative and as they neared this ship, were flying very fast and close to the water. The formation axis was 340 degrees true, and the coarse was 250 degrees true at the time of the actual attack, the Task Force Commander having turned away from the approaching planes so as to expose a minimum target. The planes were met first by the fire of the screening ships which scattered the formation and by the time the planes, which came within range of our guns, were near enough for the guns to open fire, they were paralleling and going in the same direction as the formation. The CRESCENT CITY was the center ship of the left column of the transport formation. The planes attempted to pass us and get clear of the formation. During the action only our port batteries, composed as follows, fired on the enemy planes: two (2) - 3"/23 Cal., one (1) - 511/51 Cal., two (2) - .50 Cal. Machine guns, and four (4) - 20mm anti-aircraft guns, a total of nine guns. 7. Only three (3) planes came within machine gun range of this ship, and they passed along; the port side close aboard. At about 1412 fire was opened on the approaching formation by all ships simultaneously, including the CRESCENT CITY. Personnel of this ship saw only one plane release a torpedo. The torpedo was observed to hit tail first, skid, and dive. From the records kept by an Officer Recorder on the Bridge, the Quartermaster's Notebook, and from individual reports of the various battery officers, the CRESCENT CITY and adjacent ships shot down two and damaged a third bomber (identified as Mitsubishi 97's) which attempted to land on the Jap held beach on GUADALCANAI. This plane crashed into the water before reaching the beach. A total of twelve (12) bombers were seen to be shot down in the transport area by the ships of Task Force 67 and by fighters based on GUADALCANAL. 8. During and particularly after the attack, several dogfights were observed and several planes were seen to crash into the sea and on GUALALCANAL. One P-400, U.S. Army type airplane made a crash landing in the water about one-half mile astern of this ship. The pilot was rescued by one of the boats from the transport unloading area off. KUKUM. 9. Shortly after the action commenced, a plane was seen to be hit by gun fire from the U.S.S, SAN FRANCISCO and appeared to crash into her after fire control station. Flames appeared in that vicinity of the ship. The flames were quickly extinguished and any damage suffered by her was not determined by this ship. 10. At 1427, the enemy planes having been repelled, the transports were maneuvered back to the unloading area and unloading operations were resumed shortly after 1525. At 1528 this ship secured from General Quarters and set Condition I-A, Material Condition Afirm continued. During the complete action the majority of this ship's landing boats were in the water and maneuvered clear of the landing beach but in the unloading area. 11. During the above action, the conduct of all officers and members of the crew and of such Army and Marine personnel that still remained on board, was excellent in every respect. The fire of the .50 cal. and 20mm batteries was particularly effective. 12. The report of the Executive Officer of this ship is included as enclosure (A). J.R. SULLIVAN. Copy to: War Diary.
REFER TO FILE AP40/16-3 10-cg Serial No. 082
U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY (AP40)
November 18, 1942. From: The Executive Officer. To: The Commanding Officer. Subject: Action against Japanese planes at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on November 12, 1942 - Report of. Reference: (a) Art. 948, U.S.Navy Regulations. 1. At about 1410 on November 12, 1942, this ship, in company with the USS McCAWLEY, USS PRESIDENT JACKSON, USS PRESIDENT ADAMS, USS BETELGEUSE, and USS LIBRA, was in action against Japanese planes off Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. 2. The ships listed above were discharging cargo to the beach near Kukom, Guadalcanal, about 1315, on November 12, 1942, when word was received that thirty enemy planes were approaching and would reach us about 1400. The ships were immediately gotten underway and were maneuvering west of Lunga Point information when the planes arrived. 3. The planes, which appeared to be an improved model of the Mitsubishi twin engine torpedo bomber, Type 97, approached from about midway between Savo and Florida Islands, on a bearing of 055° T. They appeared to be 150 or 200 feet above the water in an uneven line. When they approached our outer screen, they divided, one part going around to our right hand and the other part to our left hand. 4. Three or four enemy planes flew close alongside this ship on our port hand. We fired on all these planes. The first plane burst into flames as she passed our fantail and shortly afterward plunged into the sea. The second plane crashed into the sea about on our port beam, but was not on fire as I remember. I did not see what happened to the third and fourth planes. 5. I definitely observed six planes shot down in various sectors, and am quite certain that the CRESCENT CITY shot down or assisted in shooting down the two planes on our port hand. I could clearly see tracers from our after 50 caliber and also from our skydeck 20 millimeter guns entering the two planes. 6. I also observed an enemy plane fall in flames on the stern of the USS SAN FRANICISCO, starting a fire which was soon brought under control. I did not see any torpedoes dropped, nor did I observe any enemy machine gunning. 7. While at anchor before the plane attack, a shell from the enemy shore battery, apparently five or six inch, fell about 100 feet from the ship on our port quarter. 8. The conduct of the officers, crew and the Army machine gunners was excellent throughout. 9. I did not observe any individuals deserving of especial praise or censure. L.M. Harvey
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE AMPHIBIOUS FORCE COMMANDER TRANSPORT DIVISION TWO
File No. Gn A16-3 Serial 03 November 19, 1942 CONFIDENTIAL 1st Endorsement to CO CRESCENTT CITY Conf. ltr AP40/A16-3 10-cg Serial 082 dated November 18, 1942 From: Commander Transport Division Two. To : Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Via : (1) Commander Task Force 67. (2) Commander South Pacific Force. Subject: USS CRESCENT CITY (AP40) - Report of action against Japanese aircraft in GUADALCANAL - TULAGI Area, SOLOMON ISLANDS, on November 12, 1942. 1. Forwarded. I.N. KILAND cc: CO CRESCENT CITY
AMPHIBIOUS FORCE SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE Office of the Commander
File No. FE25/ A16-3 05/mr Serial 0197 CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. McCAWLEY, Flagship, November 22, 1942. SECOND ENDORSEMENT to CO CRESCENT CITY Conf. Ltr AP40/Al6-3 Serial 082 dated November 18, 1942. From: Commander Task Force SIXTY SEVEN. To : Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Via : Commander South Pacific Force. Subject: USS CRESCENT CITY (AP40) - Report of action against Japanese aircraft in GUADALCANAL - TULAGI Area, SOLOMON ISLANDS, on November 12, 1942. 1. Forwarded. R. K. TURNER.
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE OF THE UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET HEADQUARTERS OF THE COMMANDER
A16-3(11) Serial 0256a jry C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
THIRD ENDORSMETENT TO:
C.O. CRESCENT CITY Conf. ltr. AP40/Al6-3, Serial 082 dated November 18, 1942. From: The Commander South Pacific Area and Pacific Force. To : The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet. Subject: U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY (AP40) - Report of action against Japanese aircraft in GUADALCANAL - TULAGI Area, SOLOMON ISLANDS, November 12, 1942. 1. Forwarded. W.F. HALSEY
Action Report
U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY AP40
U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY (AP40) - ACTION REPORTS
Anti-Aircraft Action by Surface ships November 12, 1942 - Guadalcanal (Tulagi Area) Solomon Island. Serial 083 November 18, 1942. REFER TO FILE AP40/A16-3 10-cg Serial 083 U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY (AP40) C O N F I D E N T I A L November 18, 1942. From: The Commanding Officer, To : The Commander-in-Chief, UNITED STATES FLEET. Subject: U.S.S. C SCENT CITY (AP40) - Action Reports. Reference: (a) Cominch Conf. ltr. FF1/Al6-3(0332) of March 7, 1942. (b) PacFlt Confidential Ltr. 16CL-42. Enclosure: (A) Action Report for November 12, 1942o 1. In accordance with references (a) and (b), enclosure (A) is forwarded herewith. J.R. Sullivan. Copy to: Cincpac. ComSoPacFor. ComAmpForSoPacFor. ComTransGrpAmpForSoPac. ComTranDiv, TWO. War Diary.
ANTI-AIRCRAFT ACTION BY SURFACE SHIPS U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY (AP40) Time & Date: 1403, Nov. 12, 1942 LOCATION OF SHIP: Guadalcanal Island (Tulagi Area), Solomon Island
1. SURPRISE ATTACK (Yes or No): No 2. METHOD PICKING PLANE UP (Radar, binoculars, naked eye): Binoculars. 3. RANGE PLANE WAS PICKED UP: About 5 MILES. 4. Number of planes: Not definitely known, (Approximately 15). 5. Type of planes: Recently modified Mitsubishi 97s. Low level torpedo attack. 6. Speed & Altitude: Speed fast, altitude very low, about 40-60 feet. 7. Guns Firing: 2-3"/23 cal; 4-20mm anti-aircraft guns, 1-5"/51 cal; and 2-.50 cal. Machine guns, total 9 guns. 8. Ammunition expended: 10 rounds 3"/23, 2 rounds 5"/51, 190 rounds 20mm. .50 caliber guns were property of USMC. 9. Percent service allowance expended: 3.5/10% 10. Approximate time tracking to first shot: As soon as planes came in range. Seven minutes. 11. Approximate time of first hits: Open fire at correct range, first hit immediately on commence firing, which was at 1412. 12. Approximate time first shot to last shot: 25 seconds. 13. Approximate position angle open fire: 0°-2° 14. Approximate position cease fire: 0°-02° 15. Approximate bearing first shot: 200° 16. Approximate bearing last shot: 340° 17. Approximate range first shot: 2,000 yards 18. Approximate range last shot: 1,500 yards 19. Approximate altitude of bomb release: No bombs dropped. 20. Approximate Range Torpedo Release: 2200 yards. 21. Hits on ship: None Size of guns: - - - 22. Number near bomb misses: none Casualties from near misses: none. 23. Planes shot down: - - (Sure) 2, 20mm and .50 caliber.* 24. Details of damage to planes by gunfire: 3"/23, and 5"/51 possible damage. 25. Performance of ammunition: Excellent 26. Pattern sizes Fair, all guns local control. *Note on #23: Planes came within gun range of this ship with no appearance of damage, when they left range of this ship, one had crashed, and the other in flames. They were being fired on at the same time by a destroyer about 2200 yards abeam.

Back to the top



History of the U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY AP-40




Links to other web-sites with information on the
U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY


NavSource Online  Has photos of AP-40
Naval Historical Center  Has photos and info.of AP-40




Home


Mail any comments or questions to Scott Davis All right reserved © Copyright 1997 - 2010