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 CommanderFile 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.
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