CA-38 USS U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO


Class: New Orleans
Commissioned 02/10/34
Length Overall 588' 2"
Extreme Beam: 61' 9"
Mean Draft: 19' 5"
Standard Displacement tons: 9,950
Ships Company: Off. 51; Enl.: 700
Armament:
Main: (9) 8"/55 cal.
Secondary: (8) 5/25 cal.
(8) .50 cal. Ack Ack
Catapults: 2 Amidship
Armor: Max Thickness 8"
Designed Speed: 32.7 kts.
Designed Shaft Horsepower: 107,000
Enginesr:
Manufacture
Wstgh.
Fuel (oil) tons 2178


War Diary of the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO


Action Report on the Night of Nov. 12-13, 1942" of U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO


                               War Diary
                         U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO

                            For the Period
                   November 1, to November 30, 1942


    General:

              This diary contains only such information as is 
considered to be of interest in regard to the part the San 
Francisco is playing in the actual conduct of the war.  
Administrative functions and routine affairs are not included 
unless of some special interest.

              All changes of course, speed, etc., are not 
included. Course and speed made good from 1200 of the previous 
day to 1200 are given daily with positions at 0800, 1200, and 
2000, local zone time.

              Zigzags when with convoy are from mersigs unless 
otherwise specified. Zigzags when not with convoy are from 
general tactical instructions or other navy standard publication 
unless otherwise specified.

              Normally, ship goes to general quarters one hour 
prior to sunrise and re-sets condition three at sunrise. From 
sunset to morning general quarters, the ship is in condition two. 
When in condition 1 and 2, condition Z is normally maintained, 
and in condition 3, condition Y.




ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 1, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 65  TASK GROUP 65.4  TASK UNIT

0000      1300      At sea with Task Force 65.  Hunter Ligett, fleet
                    Guide.  Zigzagging on base course 355, speed 14.
0140      1440      Course 315.
0240      1540      Course 283.
0900      2200      Course 308.
0925      2225      Sighted Espiritu Santo, 227° True, 7 Miles.
1300      0200      Course 315.
                    Task Force 65 enroute to reinforce Guadalcanal
                    In accordance with CTF 64 Op Order C-1, of
                    October 29, 1942


                              POSITIONS
0800                LAT 14-30 S   LONG 167-18 E
1200                LAT 14-06 S   LONG 166-32 E
2000                LAT 12-56 S   LONG 165-19 E
1200                COURSE 321 T SPEED 13.2 Knots


ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 2, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 65  TASK GROUP 65.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as OTC, Task Force 65 on course 315°,
                    Speed 14.  Hunter Ligett as fleet guide.
0327      1627      Radar contact on 2 planes bearing 260°T, distance
                    14 miles.
0628      1928      Course 350 T.
0824      2124      Sighted B-17, bearing 080° T, distance 5 miles.
0925      2225      Course 030 T.
0953      2253      Course 330° T.
1030      2330      Course 290° T.
1048      2348      Course 300° T.
1217      0117      Course 020° T.
1350      0250      Course 245° T.
1505      0405      Course 205° T.
1530      0430      Sighted Pensacola and 4 destroyers bearing 183°,
                    Distance 15 miles.
1559      0459      Course 295° T.
1640      0540      Course 300° T.
1645      0540      Pensacola and 4 destroyers joined formation (TG
                    65.7).
1810      0710      Course 150° T.
1930      0830      Course 120° T.
2250      1150      Speed 15 Knots.
2358      1258      Course 270° T.


                              POSITIONS
0800                LAT 11-07 S   LONG 163-31.5 E
1200                LAT 10-22 S   LONG 163-02 E
2000                LAT 10-27 S   LONG 162-30 E
1200                COURSE 320° T SPEED 12.3 Knots

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 3, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 65  TASK GROUP 65.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming at OTC Task Force course 270°T, speed 15 
                    knots. San Francisco as guide.
0422      1222      McCalla left station to investigate contact 
                    reported by Helena (radar).
0431      1731      McCalla dropped depth charges and reported heavy
                    under water explosions. Believed, to have 
                    destroyed enemy submarines.
0500      1800      Sighted San Cristabol Island bearing 020°T, 
                    distance 22 miles.
0555      1855      Speed 17 knots.
0640      1940      Course 150°T.
1000      2300      Atlanta and destroyers joined formation (TG 65.3)
1141      0041      Course 075°T.
1143      0041      Course 090°T.
1147      0047      Course 075°T.
1230      0130      Course 055°T.
1312      0234      Course 015°T
1434      0334      Sighted Fomalhaut bearing 005°T, 14 miles.
1435      0335      Speed 15 knots.
1441      0341      Course 000°T.
1446      2346      Transports of Task Force joined formation.
1525      0427      Fomalhaut joined formation.
1540      0440      Course 300°T.
1630      0530      Task force 65.4 formed approach disposition as
                    support force steaming ahead of transports under
                    respective group commanders.
1825      0725      Sighted Southard ahead.
1840      0740      Passed between San Cristobal and Ulawa Islands.
1900      0800      Course 280°T, speed 14 knots.
2000      0900      Ship went to general quarters.
2200      1100      Course 315°T.
2250      1150      Radar contact on several surface ships bearing
                    080°T distance 8 miles.  Believed to be friendly.
2330      1230      Speed 16 knots.
2341      1241      Speed 18 knots.


                              POSITIONS
0800                LAT 11-09 S   LONG 161-17 E
1200                LAT 11-13 S   LONG 162-21.5 E
2000                LAT 09-59 S   LONG 161-47 E
1200                COURSE 230° T SPEED 13.3 Knots

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 4, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 65  TASK GROUP 65.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as OTC and guide Task Group 65.4
                    (San Francisco, Helena, Laffey, Sterrett, and
                    Buchanan) on course 315°T, speed 18 knots. Ship is 
                    at general quarters.
0027      1327      Speed 15 knots.
0044      1344      Course 280°T.
0121      1421      Course 320°T.
0126      1426      Course 000°T
0130      1430      Course 060°T.
0146      1446      Speed 13 knots-maneuvering on various courses in 
                    Indispensable Strait. Task Group 65.6 (Eastern 
                    Landing Group) Task Group 65.5 (Eastern Transport 
                    Group)and Task Group 65.7 (Eastern Screening 
                    Group) passed Task Group 65.4 some time during 
                    night to effect landing transports Aola Bay. Task 
                    Group 65.1 (Transport group and Task Group 65.3 
                    (screening group) proceeded through Sealark 
                    Channel during early morning.
0520      1820      Speed 17 knots.
0520      1820      Sighted 3 destroyers 310°T, distance 5 miles. 
                    Identified as friendly.
0537      1837      Course 260°T.
0550      1850      Secured from general quarter.
0555      1855      Observed AA firing on port quarter.
0600      1900      Course 265°T.
0729      2029      Speed 6 knots.
0740      2040      Received surf boat alongside with 2 marine liaison
                    officers.
0739      2039      Destroyers commenced shelling Kokumbona.
0740      2040      Observed AA bursts on beach.
0850      2150      Speed 10 knots.
0758      2058      Sounded general quarters.
0814      2114      Launched one plane to spot for shore bombardment.
0830      2130      Commenced maneuvering on various course and speeds 
                    for shore bombardment.
0837      2137      Commenced firing runs on Kohambona and Koli Point 
                    as requested by Com.Gen. Guadalcanal. Expended 
                    810 rounds 5° ammunition and 229 rounds 8".
1113      0013      Secured from general quarters.
1150      0050      Sounded general quarters.  Air raid warning. 
                    Transports of group 65.1 underway.  Maneuvered at 
                    various courses and speeds as AA screen around 
                    transports.
1305      0205      Transports returned to unload.
1320      0220      Secured from general Quarters.
1357      0257      Marine officers left the ship.
1456      0356      Hoisted in plane to port.
1513      0413      Hoisted in plane to port.
1633      0533      Sounded AA defense.  Guadalcanal reported 
                    Aircraft bearing 300°T, distance 9 miles.
1637      0537      Aircraft reported as friendly.
1640      0540      Secured from a AA defense.
1747      0647      Various courses and speeds passing through Sealash 
                    Channel.
1218      0712      Sounded general quarters. On various courses and
                    speeds during night off Aola Bay. AOLA Bay
                    transports continued unloading. Task Group 65.1
                    and 65.3 entered Indispensable Strait for night
                    to return early morning to continue unloading. 
2313      1213      Sighted friendly ships bearing 312°T, distance
                    5,250 yards.
2330      1230      Task group 65.3 took station astern of Helena.


                              POSITIONS
0800                LAT 09-22 S   LONG 160-01 E
1200                LAT 09-19 S   LONG 160-05 E
2000                LAT 09-15 S   LONG 160-49 E
1200                COURSE 311° T SPEED 10 Knots

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 5, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 65  TASK GROUP 65.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Maneuvering as before.
0343      1643      Task Group 65.3 left formation.
0550      1850      Secured from general quarters. Maneuvering at 
                    Various courses and speeds as AA screen for Aola 
                    landing group.
1050      2350      Sounded general quarters. Enemy aircraft reported 
                    approaching Guadalcanal (24 Zeros, 27 twin-engine 
                    bombers). Transports underway joined formation. 
                    Bombers reported to have bombed airfield from high 
                    altitude.
1221      0121      Secured from general quarters.
1220      0120      Transports returned to unload.
1400      0300      Task Group 65.1 and 65.3 completed unloading, 
                    passed Aola Bay heading in a southeasterly 
                    direction. Radar contact (identified as friendly).
1839      0739      Sounded general quarters.
1843      0743      Secured from general quarters.
2253      1153      Sighted searchlight beams over Guadalcanal.


                              POSITIONS
0800                LAT 09-25 S   LONG 160-37 E
1200                LAT 09-29 S   LONG 160-32 E
2000                LAT 09-21 S   LONG 160-41 E
1200                COURSE 117° T SPEED 16 Knots

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 6, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 65  TASK GROUP 65.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as before.
0014      1514      Observed searchlights and flares over Savo Island.
0130      1430      Transport group completed unloading and got 
                    underway.
0212      1512      Sounded general quarters. 2 enemy ships reported 
                    near Savo Island.
0237      1537      Course 090°T,
0240      1540      Pensacola end destroyers joined formation.
0318      1618      Course ll0°T.
0325      1625      Speed 16 knots.
0445      1745      Course 130°T.
0546      1846      Secured from general quarters.
0835      2135      Sighted friendly ships bearing l00°T, distance 16 
                    miles.
1318      0218      Course 100°T.
1441      0341      Course 150°T
1526      0426      Course 170°T.
1731      0631      Course 230°T.
1734      0634      Speed 18 knots.
1824      0724      Course 180°T.
                    Task group 65.4 covering retirement of transports 
                    And screening groups proceeding Espiritu Santo. 
                    Task Group 65.4 as reorganized comprises 
                    San Francisco, Helena, Sterret, Gwin, Buchanan, 
                    Laffey. This group also designated Task Force 65.


                              POSITIONS
0800                LAT 09-51.5 S LONG 161-33 E
1200                LAT 10-09 S   LONG 162-32.5 E
2000                LAT 11-45 S   LONG 162-58.2 E
1200                COURSE 109° T SPEED 5.8 Knots

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 7, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 65  TASK GROUP 65.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as before as OTC Teak Force 65
                    and fleet guide Task Group 65.4. Course
                    180° speed 15 knots.
0540      1840      Course 140°T.
0553      1853      Course 100°T.
0602      1902      Speed 16 knots.
1335      0235      Launched plane for Espiritu Santo.
1933      0833      Speed 15 knots.
2043      0943      Course 110°T.


                              POSITIONS
0800                LAT 14-05 S   LONG 163-25 E
1200                LAT 14-14 S   LONG 164-19 E
2000                LAT 14-22.5 S LONG 166-24 E
1200                COURSE 157° T SPEED 12.5 Knots

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 8, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 65  TASK GROUP 65.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as before with Task Force 65.  San 
                    Francisco fleet guide.  Zigzagging on base course 
                    110° T. Speed 15 knots
0134      1434      Course 155°T.
0147      1447      Course 195°T.
0236      1536      USS Sterret reported radar contact bearing 295°T, 
                    distant 3000 yards.  USS Buchanan ordered to 
                    investigate.  Investigation negative.
0239      1539      Commenced steaming on various courses at various 
                    speeds approaching Espiritu Santo.
0446      1746      Launched one aircraft for anti-submarine patrol.
0619      1919      Moored starboard side to Guadalupe in Second
                    Channel, Espiritu Santo.
0847      2147      Shifted berths, mooring in berth Y-1, Second 
                    Channel.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 9, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE   TASK GROUP   TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Anchored as before in Second Channel, Espiritu 
                    Santo.
1330      0230      Captain Cassin Young, U.S. Navy relieved Captain 
                    C. H. McMorris, U.S. Navy as Commanding officer 
                    this vessel.
1513      0413      Shifted berth to X-6, Second Channel.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 10, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 67  TASK GROUP 67.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Anchored as before in Second Channel, Espiritu
                    Santo.
0603      1903      Underway in accordance with orders of CTF 67, as 
                    Flagship of Task Group 67.4, composed of cruisers 
                    San Francisco, Helena, Pensaco1a, and four
                    screening destroyers.
0648      1648      Clear of Espiritu Santo.  Destroyers formed anti-
                    Submarine screen on cruisers. Cruisers in column 
                    from van to rear, San Francisco, Helena, 
                    Pensacola.  Steaming on various courses at 
                    various speeds approaching and passing through
                    Bougainville Straits.
0755      2055      Commenced zigzagging on case course 270°T, speed 
                    15 knots.
1000      2300      Course 320°T.
1239      0139      Sighted plane bearing 035°T, distant 8 miles. 
                    Identified as friendly.
1340      0240      Launched two aircraft for spotting Offset Battle 
                    Practice.
1400      0300      Ceased zigzagging. Steadied up on 320°T.
1495      0305      Commenced firing Offset Battle Practice to
                    starboard.
1499      0309      Ceased firing. Practice completed.
1412      0312      Resumed zigzagging on base curse 320°T.
1454      0354      Steaming on various courses at various speeds to 
                    Recover two aircraft
1532      0432      Resumed zigzagging on base course 320°T, speed 17 
                    knots.
1734      0634      Course 280°T.
1736      0636      USS Preston, USS Gwin, and USS Pensacola left 
                    Formation to join Task Force 16 for duty.
1930      0850      Course 326°T.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 11, 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 67  TASK GROUP 67.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as before with Task Group 67.4.  San 
                    Francisco, fleet guide.  Zigzagging on base course 
                    326°T, speed 17 knots.
0424      1724      Radar surface contact bearing 274°T, distant 18 
                    miles.  TBS communication identified contact as 
                    USS Portland, USS Juneau, and accompanying 
                    destroyers and transports.
0500      1800      Sighted eight ships bearing 290°T, distant 8 
                    miles.
0541      1841      Identified as friendly.
0635      1935      Commenced steaming on various courses, joining 
                    Task Force 67.  This task group (67.4) joined the 
                    remaining units of Task Force 67.  Comtaskfor 67 
                    in USS McCawley (OTC) USS Helena, USS Portland, 
                    USS Juneau, USS Shaw, USS Monssen, USS Sterrett, 
                    USS Cushing, USS Buchanan, USS Laffey.
0700      2000      Zigzagging on course 330°T, speed 15 knots.
0727      2027      USS Shaw alongside for mail passing.
0753      2053      Course 300°T.
0816      2116      Course 130°T.
0820      2120      Course 150°T.
0855      2155      Course 240°T.
0905      2205      Course 330°T.
0928      2228      USS Sterret alongside for passing mail.
1007      2307      Course 300°T.
1044      2344      Sighted San Cristobal Island bearing 320°T, 
                    distant 45 miles.
1046      2346      Course 260°T.
1128      0028      USS Helena had radar contact on aircraft 
                    bearing180°T distant 20 miles.  Aircraft sighted 
                    at 1135, distant 8 miles.  Identified as enemy 
                    twin float reconnaissance mid or low-wing 
                    monoplane.  Appeared to be using shadowing tactics 
1136      0036      Sounded AA defense.
1201      0101      Secured from AA Defense.
1228      0128      Course 280°T.
1307      0207      Sighted friendly patrol plane (PBY) bearing 345°T, 
                    distant 8 miles.
1322      0222      Course 300°T.
1327      0227      Speed 22 knots.
1347      0247      USS Monssen depth charged sound contact.  Results 
                    unknown.
1500      0400      Course 270°T.
1505      0405      Launched two planes.
1509      0409      Course 300°T.
1604      0504      Course 345°T.
1635      0535      Sighted two planes bearing 125°T.  Planes not 
                    identified 
1707      0607      Course 000°T.
1720      0620      Sighted Guadalcanal Island bearing 340°T.
1835      0735      Cruisers formed in column, van to rear, San 
                    Francisco, Helena, Portland, Juneau.
1840      0740      Ship went to general quarters.
1925      0825      Course 315°T.
2008      0908      Formed battle disposition, cruisers maintaining 
                    column, 4 destroyers forming column dead ahead of 
                    cruisers.
2017      0917      Course 285°T.
2112      1012      Speed 15 knots.
2115      1015      USS Atlanta and 3 destroyers joined formation 
                    astern.  Steaming on various westerly courses 
                    proceeding along north coast of Guadalcana1.  
2250      1150      Observed sporadic artillery fire along coast of 
                    Guadalcanal.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 12 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 67  TASK GROUP 67.4  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as before on a westerly courses along 
                    north coast of Guadalcanal.  Speed 15 knots.  In 
                    company with Task Group 67.4 plus Atlanta and 3 
                    destroyers.
0005      1305      Changed course to north and commenced patrol in 
                    vicinity of Lunga Point.
0516      1816      Transports group arrived Lunga Point area and 
                    commenced unloading.  Combatant ships acting as 
                    screen.
0547      1847      USS Buchanan made underwater sound contact and 
                    attacked with depth charges.  Results unknown.
0624      1924      Secured from general quarters.
0645      1945      Enemy shore battery opened fire on transport 
                    group.  USS Helena and two destroyers proceeded to 
                    return fire and to silence battery.
1318      0218      Received information of imminent attack by enemy 
                    air group.  All ships underway and at AA defense.
1408      0308      Attacked by 21 enemy torpedo bombers.  Details of 
                    attack contained in Report of Torpedo Attack.  
                    November 12, 1942.
1416      0316      Enemy torpedo bombers crashed dived into after 
                    bulkhead of After Main Battery Control Station.  
                    Burning gasoline caused heavy casualties.  List of 
                    casualties appended this diary.
1430      0330      Action completed.  Transports and screen returned 
                    to unloading operations.
1525      0425      Secured from AA defense.
1835      0735      Transports underway upon completion of unloading, 
                    combatant ships screening their retirement.  
                    Steaming on easterly courses at various speeds.
2211      1111      Screening group left transports and reversed 
                    course to proceed to intercept strong enemy force 
                    sighted by own aircraft approaching Guadalcanal.
2217      1117      Course 270°T, speed 18 knots.
2236      1236      Speed 15 knots.
2356      1256      Course 260°T.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 13 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 67  TASK GROUP 67.4  TASK UNIT
0009      1309      Course220°T.  Passing through Lengo Channel.
0011      1311      Course 270°T.
0023      1323      Course 280°T.
0123      1423      Speed 18 knots.
0128      1428      USS Helena radar screen showed object bearing 
                    315°T, distance 31,900 yards. This contact 
                    developed into three groups as the range closed.
0133      1433      Course 315°T .
0140      1440      Course 000°T.
0148      1448      Commenced engagement with enemy surface forces. 
                    Details in Report of Night Action, 12-13 
                    November,1942.  Upon breaking off action, retired 
                    eastward along north coast of Guadalcanal.
0400      1700      (Approximately) Joined USS Helena, who assumed 
                    command and passed eastward through Sealark 
                    Channel. Took station astern of Helena and 
                    followed her movements, since all compasses on 
                    this ship were out of commission due to action
                    damage. Set course for Espiritu Santo.  Joined at 
                    daylight by USS Juneau, USS Fletcher, USS 
                    O'Bannon, USS Sterrett, and USS Buchanan.  
                    Steaming, on easterly course at approximately 16 
                    knots.
1101      0001      USS JUNEAU hit by one, possibly two, torpedoes, 
                    Which passed close aboard this ship. Details in 
                    action report of this attack.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 14 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE     TASK GROUP       TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as before on easterly courses, at speed 
                    20 knots, Enroute Guadalcanal to Espiritu Santo.
1014      2314      USS Sterrett made sound contact.  Formation 
                    maneuvered radically to avoid possible torpedo 
                    attack.  No attack made.  USS Sterrett lost 
                    contact at 1027 and rejoined formation.
1553      0453      Entered port and anchored in berth A-11, Second 
                    Channel, Espiritu Santo.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                              DATE November 15-18 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE     TASK GROUP       TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Anchored as before in berth A-11, Second Channel, 
                    Espiritu Santo.

1300                On November 17, 1942, Captain Albert F. Frence, 
                    U.S.N. assumed command of this vessel

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 18 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 62  TASK GROUP 62.7  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Anchored as before in berth A-11, Second Channel, 
                    Espiritu Santo.
1645      0545      Underway and proceeded out of port, enroute 
                    Espiritu Santo to Noumea.  Ships in company, USS 
                    Helena, USS Sterrett, USS Buchanan, and USS Gwin.  
                    USS Helena guide, destroyers formed as anti-
                    submarine screen.  Speed 20 knots.  Task Group 
                    designated 62.7.  Group Commander, C.O. USS 
                    Helena.
2035      0935      USS Gwin depth charged sound contact.  No torpedo 
                    attack observed.  Contact lost, no results of 
                    depth charge attack observed

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 19 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 62  TASK GROUP 62.7  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as before on southerly courses Enroute 
                    Espiritu Santo to Noumea, New Caledonia.


                              POSITIONS
0800                LAT 19-15.5 S LONG 167-55.7 E
1200                LAT 20-19 S   LONG 168-23 E
2000                LAT 22-17 S   LONG 168-22 E
1200                

ZONE DESCR.  -11                                DATE November 20 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 62  TASK GROUP 62.7  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Steaming as before on various courses, approaching 
                    New Caledonia, Enroute Espiritu Santo to Noumea, 
                    New Caledonia.
0940      2240      Entered port and anchored in Great Roads, Noumea, 
                    New Caledonia.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                              DATE November 20-23 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 66  TASK GROUP 66.7  TASK UNIT
0000      1300      Anchored as before in Great Roads, Noumea, New 
                    Caledonia.
1318      0218      Underway in accordance with orders of Comsopac 
                    Enroute from Noumea, New Caledonia, to Pearl 
                    Harbor, T.H.  Joined off Burlari Passage by 
                    destroyer escorts, USS Sterrett, USS Conyngham, 
                    and USS Mahan.  All ships proceeding navy yard for 
                    repairs.

ZONE DESCR.  -11                              DATE November 23-30 1942

LZT       GCT       TASK FORCE 66  TASK GROUP 66.7  TASK UNIT
                    Steaming as before, Enroute from Noumea, New 
                    Caledonia, to Pearl Harbor, T.H.  Route to south 
                    and east of Samoan Island, Passing within sight 
                    contact of Tutuila, thence northward direct to 
                    Pearl Harbor.  Speed 16.5 knots.  No enemy 
                    contacts or unusual incidents during passage.



                                                       A.F. FRANCE
                                                    Captain, U.S. Navy



ADDEMDA TO WAR DIARY - November 1942.
The action reports referred to in November War Diary have been classified as SECRET. Action Report of Night Action, November 12-13 : See U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO SECRET Serial 03812. (Missing) Action Report - U.S.S. JUNEAU, torpedoing of, November 13 : See U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO SECRET serial 00118b of November 22, 1942. (missing) Copies have been previously delivered to CinC Pac. IN REPLY REFER TO: U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO LIST OF OFFICERS AND ENLISTED MEN KILLED AND WOUNED IN TORPEDO PLANE ENGAGEMT NOVEMBER 12, 1942: KILLED IN ACTION NAME RANK OR RATE SIGNAL - SERVICE NO. HARRIS, Albert Thomas Lieut(jg) DVG USNR CARLSON, Neil Alvin AMM3c 385 93 81 GATES, William Finnie Sea2c 640 17 33 CHATELL, Harold John Sea1c 311 72 69 EISELE, George Raymond Sea2c 660 19 58 FALGOUT, George Irvin Sea2c 644 28 72 GANDY, Andrew Jackson Jr. Sea2c 640 23 68 GEORGE, Eugene Frank Sea2c 312 01 06 GREER, Charles Fred FO3c(M) 360 06 67 LOWE, Harry James Jr. GM3w 287 44 05 LOY, Jackson Kieth GM3w 300 15 52 POWELL, William Thomas GM2c 279 63 32 SLATER, Frank Olga Sea2c 604 26 57 STOLTE,. Raymond Louis Sea2c 382 46 29 WILLIAMSON, John Leon Sea1c 262 61 38 WOUNDED IN ACTION BARTA, Vit John FC2c(M) 360 18 20 BRANEL, Burgess Vance Sea2c 654 24 14 BRANDON, Glen Harvey Sea2c 616 59 26 BRIGHAM, Donald Carlisle QM1c 234 17 94 CLARK, Acy Frances Sea 2/c 624 23 98 COVERT, Albert Donald Sea 1/c 279 75 59 FELIX, Len Wilbur Sea 1/c 670 13 97 FINFROCK, Harry Lee Y 2/c 300 15 44 FLISAK, Stanley Anthony Y 2/c 243 65 98 HIJEBSGH, Joe Henry AMM 3/c 393 39 72 IUSE, William Eugene Y 3/c 321 46 61 MC DERMOTT, Joseph Alexander Jr. Y 2/c 258 14 58 MIDYETTE, Lewis Bracy FC2/c 262 37 13 MURPHY, Ralph Ivan Sea 1/c 372 15 98 MYLMI, Robert Vincent FC 3/c(M) 660 04 00 NASH, James Robert Sea 2/c 640 23 99 NICHOLS, Harold Wright FC 3/c (M) 287 41 45 PERRINE, Sheldon Rose Sea2c 614 09 00 SEXTON, Jefferson David Sea1c 382 23 29 SOLANO, Ralph Joseph Jr. Y2c 372 15 53 STARK, Joseph Paul Sea2c 382 57 17 TARPLEY, Lewis (n) GM2c 268 50 09 TERLIZZI, Angelo (n) Sea1c 207 28 47 VIANELLO, Charles Pratt RM2c 376 01 98 WALLACE, John Arnold FC3c(M) 337 48 79 CHOUTEAU, Walter Cerre Lieut (jg) DVG, USNR LOMBARD, John Archer Lieut (jg) DVG, USNR WALLACE, John George Lieut (jg) USN WEEMS, Jeptha Clark Ship's Clerk USN MISSING IN ACTION # BONCOSKEY, Ralph Frank Sea1c 300 14 92 # Subsequently rescued. IN REPLY REFER TO: U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO LIST OF OFFICERS AND ENLISTED MEN KILLED AND WOUEDED IN NIGHT SURFACE BATTLE ENGAGEMENT NOVEMBER 13, 1942: KILLED IN ACTION NAME RANK OR RATE SIGNAL - SERVICE NO. CALLAGHAN, Daniel J. Admiral, Rear 283 LE HARDY, Louis M. Lieut-Comdr. 2667 CUMMINGS, Damon M. Lieut-Comdr. 3866 WINTLE, Jack W. Lieut-Comdr. 4298 YOUNG, Cassin Captain 589 #ROUTER, Mark Hanna Commander 1207 HUBBARD, Joseph Charles Commander 1353 HINE, Thomas Ringle Lieut. 4966 HANNA, John Carlyle Lieut. 7197 VANDERHOOF, Allan Lynne Lieut.(jg) DVG, USNR EISNER, Jacques Rodney Lieut.(jg) DVG, USNR CURTIS, Bernard John Lieut.(jg) AVN, USNR WITTER, Jean Carter Jr. Ensign DVG, USNR BROWN, Lewis T. Lieut.(jg) DVS, USNR ADAMS, Arthur Vincent Mamth2c 382 26 86 ANDERSON, Eric John GM3c 316 67 95 BUEREN, Ernest August Sea1c 376 47 22 CHRISMAN, Glen Alva SM3c 412 10 43 CHRONISTER, William Jessie Sea2c 668 74 12 EVANS, Winfred Lorin CQM(AA) 341 93 79 GARRETT, Clifford Taylor Cox. 337 31 57 GASTELUM, William (n) Sea2c 555 55 81 GLASS, Earl Jenks Sea2c 624 38 36 GREEN, George (n) Sea2c 644 25 93 GRUNDER, John Dale Sea1c 321 68 57 HALL, William Stewart Sea2c 660 20 34 HAND, Haro1d Holmes Sea2c 382 17 39 HARBOR, Walter (n) AMM3c 223 79 17 HARMON, Leonard Roy Matt1c 360 04 18 HAUG, Thor Egil F1c 223 82 06 HELVESTON, Otis Lamar Sea2c 604 23 43 HUDSON, Dale Kermit Sea1c 337 28 80 HUGRES, William Hayden SK3c 375 86 62 JACKSON, Charles Allen Matt1c 272 38 30 JAMES, Richeleau Xertes Sea1c 632 00 86 JANOSCO, Nicholas (n) PR3c 328 74 35 JAPP. Edwin Henry Sea2c 660 21 21 JENKINS, Clair Raymond Sea1c 321 46 48 KAUFFMAN, Elmer Henry Cox. 243 74 17 KAZMIERSKI, Edwin Stanley GM2c 243 73 46 KEMPA, George Edward SM3c 368 53 29 KLINE, Floyd Munro Sea2c 670 19 72 LAMB, Cecil Elmer Sea2c 616 51 31 LIBBY, Abe (n) Sea2c 640 23 89 LOCKWOOD, Will Allen Sea1c 279 61 25 MADISON, Herbert (n) OC3c 287 26 57 MARCY, Gorden Wayne Sea2c 654 34 65 MARTIN, Clyde Custer Sea2c 668 44 64 MC BRIDE, Jack Lafayette Sea2c 316 66 95 MC KERNAN, Louis Frank SF1c 341 72 61 MC NEIL, William Claude Sea2c 300 39 61 NICHOLS, John Richard Sea1c 372 25 31 PASTOR, JOSEPH John Sea2c 668 54 13 PERKINS, Robert Paul Sea1c 287 50 40 RAY, Clarence Wendell Sea1c 321 74 37 ROSSON, George Bobo Y2c 616 01 92 SCBODER, Raymond Walter GM1c 321 22 21 SLOUGH, Thomas Glenn Sea1c 356 18 17 SPANGENBERG, Kenneth Jerome GM3c 243 75 65 STEELE, Roy Lerson Jr. Sea2c 640 19 05 STONE, Wesley Howard GM3c 212 58 53 BZYMANSKI, Edward Robert SF2c 346 72 73 TAYLOR, Emmett Shaw CM3c 268 48 12 TUCKER, Francis Joseph Cox 201 76 41 TURNER, Jack Monroe Cox 295 68 93 WAGNER, Walter John Sea2c 316 83 42 WERTEEN, Edwin Loid GM3c 342 26 17 WILKINS, Wilbur Jackson Jr. F2c 604 26 08 WISENBERGER, Paul Grey F2c 612 08 66 ZAIGER, Albert Charles CM3c 620 04 88 KLATT, George Staat Plt.Sgt. 222792 USMC DALTON, Charles Milton Corporal 307004 USMC BERRAY, James E. Pfc 340536 USMC BURDETTE, Snyder Pfc 311827 USMC RITCHIE, George Pfc 347714 USMC ST. JOHN, Earl J. Pfc 350056 USMC SAMUELSON, Allen B. Pvt. 357426 USMC # Seriously wounded in action of November 12th. MISSING IN ACTION # THOLUPSON, Wilbert Lee Lieut.(jg) CVS, USNR BOCKOVER, Harvey Allen Sea2c 664 08 87 # HARDY, Wendell Richard GM3c 300 15 68 # LEWIS, Robert Jerd Sea1c 337 50 15 LUNDIE, JACK LEROY Cox 265 93 55 QUICK, Ray Wilbur F3c 668 43 79 WAIJLEN Samuel Elmer Sea1c 262 60 03 ## Subsequently rescued WOUNDED IN ACTION O'BEIRNE, Emmett Lieut-Comdr. 3703 ARISON, Rae Emmett Commander 1812 MC CANDLESS B. Lieut-Comdr. 4265 WESTIN, Howard Sevens Lieut. 5177 KERKERING, Stanley William Lieut. 6556 SIMMONS, Arthur Edwin Lieut.(jg) AVN,USNR ISBELL, Harold Austin Carpenter USN BAKER, Arthur Oliver Sea2c . 654 24 44 BAUER, Carl Raymond Sea2c 618 21 75 BODIKEY, Romualdo (n) OC1c 497 91 20 BONDSTEEL, Lynford Lawrence PHM3e 311 82 12 BURRIS, William Addison Sea2c 644 44 34 CAMP, James Ernest Sea2c 630 17 13 CONKLIN, Elmer James Sea1c 316 68 18 DAWSON, Wesley Harrison Sea2c 660 20 63 EDWARDS, Richard Marion Sea1c 356 54 84 EVES, Stephen Corbett Sea2c 660 20 52 FAULKNER, Cecil Thedore Sea2c 604 43 70 FAUST, Albert Charles RM2c 404 90 99 GILPIN, Edgar Gordon Sea2c 300 81 83 GOHN, James Calvin Sea2c 633 13 02 GOWENS, Earl Alferd F3c 628 26 09 GRAHAM, Ralph Junior Sea1c 316 67 83 HALL, Oscar Smith Sea2c 624 40 28 HAMMACK, James Lloyd Sea1c 346 93 70 HANNAH, Hoyt "N" Cox 346 71 34 HARSH, Donald Edward Sea2c 612 22 00 HEAD, Lester Curt BM1c 272 21 78 HILIMAN, Ralph Albert Cox 316 67 76 HOLBROOK, Heber "A" PHM3c 368 61 50 JAMES, Carrol Woodfin Sea1c 360 39 11 KIEFER, Harry Joseph Sea1c 243 73 54 KING, John William Jr. Sea2c 274 64 44 KINNEY, Charles Leonard Cox 342 27 66 KLEE, Walter Donald GM2c 328 74 15 KRAUSE, Lloyd Stanley Sea1c 316 66 83 LASSEN, Henry (n) Sea2c 372 40 59 LEVY, Harold Bertrum Sea1c 342 27 48 LEWIS, Alvin Jesse Sea1c 223 89 56 MARLEY, Thomas Keith Cox 262 28 45 MIKULENCAK, Joseph Frank Sea2c 624 03 61 MORTIMER, Melvin Wayne F3c 399 56 76 MURPHY, George Delmas Jr. Sea1c 376 06 20 MYHRE, Leonard Marvin Sea2c 660 20 31 NIEMEIER, Walter Henry EM2c 321 39 24 OLSON, Manfred. Chester F2c 393 44 04 PETERSON, Robert George CGM(AA) 320 85 85 PHILLIPS, Robert (n) Sea2c 668 17 85 POTTER, Joseph Skinner Jr. EM3c 382 10 83 REYNOLDS, William Dwain F2c 368 67 29 RISLAND, Oscar Stanley Sea2c 638 48 91 ROBB, Semuel Kelly Cox 385 79 35 SEHRT, Glann Francis Sea2c 662 51 53 SETTLE, Carl Dean Sea2c 337 49 04 SMITH, Samuel Robert Cox 370 08 39 SPENCER, Jimmie Leon Sea2c 670 17 01 ST GEORGE, Merlyn Joseph Sea1c 328 82 58 STORCK, Emory Thompson Sea1c 266 16 48 STORY Henry Cleve Sea2c 670 17 10 TUPPER, Theodore (n) Jr. FM3c 223 83 77 VALACH, Elemil (n) CGM(AA) 212 39 37 VOISINET, Robert Keen SM3c 234 26 87 WARD, Harold Emanuel MAtt2c 223 64 44 WHITE, WILLIAM David Sea2c 640 19 29 WILDER, James Richard SF3c 316 63 42 BEAN, Harold Ray Sk3C 356 50 33 GRACE, Elwood Grant Jr. F3c 382 96 33 HANNA, Julius Andy Sea1c 321 60 03 HOGAN, Raymond Henry Sea1c 660 23 09 ROBINSON, Harold Payne GM1c 268 20 24 SNELL, Ralph Howard Cox 376 01 19 STODGHILL, James Edward Cox 268 49 90 TROOP, Charles Jr. Sea1c 287 51 33 LEE, Benjamin G. First Sergeant 241740 USMC EGAN, John Maurice Francis Sergeant 269130 USMC HOPSON, Miles W. Corporal 302754 USMC MEALER, Hubert R. Corporal 306102 USMC RAMSY, Walter J. Jr. Corporal 298707 USMC LARGE, Charles J. FLDCK 300824 USMC MAELER, Carl W. Pfc 311471 USMC MC CARSTLE, Howard P. Jr. Pfc 324043 USMC POORE Forrest F. Pfc 307370 USMC SPENCER, Clifford C. Pfc 336891 USMC AGUILAR, Joe M. Sergeant 298737 USMC MEDLIN, Otho H. Corporal 292832 USMC CARRELL, Robert R. Pfc 311748 USMC ROGERS, Harold W. Pfc 314306 USMC MIDDLESWORTH, Malbert FM1c 307943 USMC CARLSON, Oscar Gunnery Sgt. 235122 USMC HILLAS, Robert Alexander Jr. Ensign DVS, USNR ISBELL, Harold Austin Carpenter USN AVALOS, Christopher (n) Sea1c 618 21 25 CHRISTENSEN, Jess Willard BM2c 371 91 05 DE BENEDETTI, Albert (n) Sea2c 393 59 20 GILGREASE William Eugene Sea2c 360 51 34 HOLMQUIST Carl Eric CMM(PA) 238 33 41 JENKINS, Elmer Leslie Jr. Sea2c 291 64 50 KEPPLER, Reinhardt John BM1c 385 67 73 LUKENS, Edward Alan Sea1c 243 78 92 NICKSON, Joseph Francis BM2c 204 31 87 PETERSON, John William Dean GM3c 328 55 36 REYNOLDS, Jesse (n) Jr. BM2c 311 44 47 VANCE "C" "R" BM2c 376 01 03 WHITE, Arnold Earl RDM3c 356 54 65 WUBKER, Virgil Max Sea1c 321 43 82 IN REPLY REFER TO: U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO ENLISTED MAN KILLED IN ACTION SOLOMON ISLAND NOVEMBER 18, 1942: NAME RATE SERVICE NO. * GANNO, Otis Charles ARM2c 274 44 70 * Killed in crash of PBY patrol on November 18, 1942, near Tulagi, Solomon Island. Plane in which GANNON was a passenger crashed on take-off. Body recovered and buried in grave #80, U.S. Navy - U.S. Marine Corps Cemetery, #1 White Beach.




ACTION REPORT USS SAN FRANCISCO CA-38 SERIAL 0411 16 NOVEMBER 1942 AIR ATTACK OFF LUNGA POINT, GUADALCANAL, 12 NOVEMBER 1942, REPORT OF. REPORT OF ACTING C.O. LCDR. H. E. SCHONLAND COVERING ACTION AT 1408 DURING JAPANESE AIR ATTACK ON TASK FORCE 67, OFF LUNGA POINT, GUADALCANAL. A DAMAGED TORPEDO PLANE APPEARED TO DELIBERATELY CRASH THE AFTER SUPER STRUCTUR, CAUSING EXTENSIVE DAMAGE AND 45 CASUALTIES. 44804 In Reply Refer To: U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO CA38/A16-3. Serial ts/133 November 16, 1942. From: The Commanding Officer. To : The Commander in Chief, U. S. PACIFIC FLEET. Via : (1) The Commander Task Force SIXTY-SEVEN, (Rear Admiral R. K. Turner). (2) The Commander South Pacific Area and South Pacific Force. Subject: Action Report - Air Attack, November 12, 1942. 1. The following report is made of repulse of an air attack against Task Force 67 off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal, in the Solomons during the afternoon of November 12, 1942. 2. Task Force 67 formed special anti-aircraft disposition about 1317 on orders of Commander Task Force 67. Transports (6) were formed in two columns, in line of divisions, axis 340, course 340, speed 10 knots, with SAN FRANCISCO stationed 1000 yards on the axis ahead of the transports. Speed was later increased to 14 knots and the disposition maneuvered by Commander Task Force 67 off Lunga Point. SAN FRANCISCO generally adhered to the station assigned but during the attack increased speed to 25 knots (for brief intervals) and maneuvered radically to avoid torpedoes and to enable the main and anti-aircraft batteries to fire at torpedo planes. 3. Japanese air attack group has been estimated to have comprised 21 torpedo planes (twin engine land planes), 9 Zero fitters, and some dive bombers totaling about 52 planes, Except for one Zero fighter which was seen to plummet down through the clouds, only torpedo planes were seen by this ship. Between 19 and 21 of them were counted. 4. Torpedo planes approached undetected (or at least unreported) down the north coast of Florida Island, and came south going over Florida Island. They fanned out as they came over and. appeared to break up into two groups, one approaching the formation from the southeast, the other from the northeast. A.A. Control estimates their speed at 170 knots. Planes flew very low, literally skimming the water (less than 50 feet) and used the dark background of Florida and Tulagi Islands to reduce silhouette effect against the sky. Approach formation appeared to be excellent, planes fanning out from three plane sections. 5. Fire was commenced at 1408 with the 5" battery. The first bursts were on and the plane under fire crashed immediately. Salvos were fired by the main battery at ranges between 5000 and 2000 yards. Splashes from 8" A.P. projectiles were very effective in causing planes to make radical maneuvers. Our A.A. fire shot down one plane, damaged two planes and heavily hit the plane which crashed into Control Aft. 6. One torpedo passed ahead of this ship and was avoided by maneuvering. One passed forward long the starboard side. One torpedo was soon to ricochet upwards at an angle of about 45 degrees on striking the water and nearly torpedoed the plane that dropped it. It went end over end several times and then sank. One or two were seen to porpoise during the early part of the run but apparently took their depth and ran properly. One erratic run (circular) was noted. No hits were registered on any ships. Wakes were very distinct, more by apparent ripples on the surface of the water than by bubbles. 7. At 1416 this ship was individually attacked by an already damaged torpedo plane which dropped its torpedo on the starboard quarter (torpedo passed alongside to starboard) and plane then appeared to deliberately crash the after superstructure of this ship. Plane's right wing struck Control Aft about 170 relative, swung around into that structure, and plunged over tile port side into the sea where it crashed and burned. Considerable damage and intense fires were caused by this crash and the following personnel casualties occurred. Killed or Died Wounded of Injuries. (Mostly Burned) Missing Officers 1 4 0 Enlisted 14 25 1 Control Aft was demolished, Battle two burned out, and the after A.A. Director and After Fox Cast Radar were put out of commission. Three 20 mm. mounts were demolished. Wounded personnel were transferred to U.S.S. PRESIDENT JACKSON, with the exception of Commander Grouter who wished to remain aboard ship so that he could be returned to duty in a minimum time. Commanfer Grouter's gallantry was ill-rewarded, in that he suffered additional injuries when a shell exploded in his cabin during the subsequent night action resulting in his death The loss of personnel and disabling of equipment was most keenly felt by this vessel in the following engagement. 8. Ammunition expended: 8" - 15 rounds 5" - 180 rounds 1.1" - 160 rounds (approximately). 20mm. - 1200 rounds (approximately). 9. Name plate from the plane which crashed this ship was obtained and is forwarded separately via airmail to Officer in Charge, Intelligence Center, Pacific Ocean Area, (Commandant 14th Naval District). Plane appears to have been a Mitsubishi 97 twin engine landplane, painted dark. 10. During the action, a submarine was seen on the surface in the vicinity of Cape Esperance-Savo Island, with one Japanese torpedo plane flying low in the vicinity. ComTaskGroup 67.4 was notified and the U.S .S. SHAW was dispatched by him to destroy the submarine, and reports reaching this indicate that she destroyed this submarine by gunfire on surface. 11. At 1505 radio Guadalcanal reported all clear shortly thereafter transports moved in to resume unloading. This ship observed at least eight torpedo planes destroyed, including one that was damaged by this ship but apparently getting away when it was destroyed by a fighter (F4F4) . This believed to be only a fraction of the enemy's losses. 12. It is desired to mention the remarkable fire discipline and courage of the crews of the 20 mm. guns on the gallery around Control Aft who were firing on the approaching torpedo plane and who continued to fire into it with all their guns until they were wiped out by the plane's actually flying into them. They met their deaths without flinching and in a manner which has been an inspiration to us all. H. E. SCHONLAND, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy. Commanding. Copies to: CINCPAC (Original plus 1.) COMPAC COMTASKFOR 67 (Rear Admiral Turner) WAR DIARY File No. AMPHIBIOUS FORCE E25/ A16-3(3) SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE Office of the Commander Serial: TS/133 U.S.S. McCAWLEY, Flagship, November 17, 1942 First endorsement to CO SAN FRANCISCO Ltr. of November 16, 1942. From: Commander Task Force SIXTY SEVEN. To : Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Via : Commander South Pacific Force. Subject: Action Report - Air Attack, November 12, 1942. 1. Forwarded R. K. TURNER, COMSOPAC FILE SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE A16/(11) of the UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET Headquarters of the Commander Serial TS/133 SECOND ENDORSEMENT to: C.O. SAN FRANISCO ltr. CA38/A16-3/ Ser. 0411 of November 16, 1942. From: The Commander South Pacific Area and South Pacific Force. To : The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Subject: Action Report - Air Attack, November 12, 1942. 1. Forwarded. W. F. HALSEY




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