USS BELL
ASSOCIATION (DD587)
JUNE,
2001
IN THIS ISSUE:
SOME ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM DEPARTMENT
OF THE NAVY
REUNION NEWS
It’s
June already and it won’t be long before it will be October and time to meet
again and have fun telling tales. To
guarantee hotel room availability reservations must be made by September 14th. Richard and Barbara need your
activity reservations no later than October 8th.
This reunion looks to be a
great one and Richard and Barbara have done a great job making the arrangements. So, mark your calendars and don’t forget
the deadlines for reservations. The
hotel has had some problems with their 800 number, but it should be ok by now. If you do have a problem with that
number, you can call 1-877-545-5550 or their local number 1-401-849-9880.
ALSO DON’T FORGET TO BRING YOUR LITTLE GIFT FOR THE RAFFLE.
FINDING LOST
SHIPMATES
I have located some more of the
R. B. Glisson –
Edward J. Godin –
Deceased
Gerald Owen
Hensley –
James R. Henson –
George W. Osborne
–
Edwin F. Klenka –
Anthony L.
Paultanis – Deceased 1988
James Wesley
Warren – Deceased
William H. Stevens
–
Williams Adams,
Jr. –
Elead Wegner –
Gordon E. Rusk –
Deceased 1990
Steve Stack – 5603
80th St, N, #516, Five Towns Fordham Building, St. Petersburg, FL
33079
I still have more letters to go out. Hopefully I will find more.
IN MEMORY
Peter Scheidt, a photographer and artist, died
Fred
Kniehl, 76, of
Evelyn Broadhurst, daughter of Al and
Florence Hammer died suddenly on
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thank you for the kind expression of sympathy.
Peter was my only sibling and I shall miss him greatly. I am interested to learn how news of his
death reached you. Any information
about the USS Bell and the Association would be greatly appreciated.
…..Emma S. Bauer (Sister of Peter Scheidt)
Thank you for your card from the
…..
MAILBAG
Mail was returned undeliverable for Mrs.
Louis Arlotta,
…..I’m writing to let you know
Russell Kittle passed away
…..I was an original crew member
of the USS Bell DD587, going aboard in
…..Bill Adams (William Adams, Jr.)
…..Loren has really enjoyed the
newsletters. We are sending our dues
and would like to order a cap. He is
not well, but the newsletters brighten his day.
…..Norma Jean Brock
…..Thank you for your prompt replies to my
e-mails. Here is the money for a cap
and membership dues for my dad. He is so excited about the website. He has brought out all his memorabilia to
go through. It’s wonderful to see
that spark in him. I believe we
might even get him talked into a computer because of this.
Again, thank you.
…..Karen Kirk (daughter of Francis Harpole)
…..Jon & I are looking forward to the
…..Sue Diulus (Daughter of Mario & Marian Capitanio)
…..Received your letter. Paul Dale Hollars joint the Navy
…Nadine Hollars
…..Yes, Charles was on the USS Bell DD587
in 1943 through May 1944.
Unfortunately he passed away in February 1997.
I am his widow. We were married in
1949. He would have enjoyed a reunion. Thank you for contacting the shipmates.
…..Ann Hief
…..Enclosed is a check for membership
dues. I also want to order a USS
Bell cap. You have my deep gratitude
for what you are doing for the Bell Association.
Thank you so much.
…..Bryant W. Adler
…..I hope that this finds you well and
happy. I have been up to see dad
again and got some family info, as I am doing some background history work when
I have the time. So far I have gotten back four generations and got stuck. Dad told me that the reason was that they
came here from
…..Steve Hughes (Son of Harold Hughes)
…..No, he is not missing. I am the grandson of Albert Mouton. He served in WWII on the USS Bell. He had received a letter in the mail. He is alive and well in New Iberia, LA. Next time I get him over to my house, I
will show him the pictures on the home page of people to identify. Any message to give him?
…..Chad Mouton
…..I received your letter from awhile
back. I did a little research with
my Mom and found out something I did not know.
My dad, Sam George Canova, is indeed the same one you have been trying to
find. Unfortunately, he passed away
back in 1978, but it shed some light on a part of his life I did not know about.
He worked in the shipyards in New Orleans, and lived there for a while. I only
knew he had served on the USS Kenneth Whiting.
But now I have his military records which shows that he had indeed served on the
USS Bell. Thanks for bringing more memories of his
life.
…..Sam Canova
…..Enclosed
please find our dues. We can’t
remember is we mailed them last year (one of the blessings of aging!) If we did
please keep the extra money and we may even own you more. We enjoy the “Memories” so much. Clair is so proud of his Navy days and
will talk Navy to anyone who will listen.
I would love to surprise him with a hat.
Thank you for all you do for the Bell Association. Fond wishes to you.
…..Corky Dickman
…..We received the Bell cap. Clair was really surprised. He spends a lot of time in his recliner. He has the cap either on his head or the
table. He is very proud of his Navy
service. Thank you very much. Keep the Newsletters coming. Thank you again and Happy Easter. We are ready for warm weather!
…..Clair & Corrine Dickman
…..In regards to the letter I
received about locating shipmates of the USS Bell. Sineath Elwood Mathis passed away June
10, 1985. He was 64 years old. He was sawing down a big pine tree on
this property and the tree swayed back against a big oak and fell and hit him
behind the ear and killed him instantly.
He lived in Clinch County, Georgia near Homerville on a 200-acre farm and
timberland. He is buried at Camp
Creek Baptist Missionary Church Cemetery on Highway 168. The Navy marker is on his grave. He has two children. A daughter who has
four children and a son who has one son.
He fell in his father’s footsteps.
He is an electrician. He is also a
Baptist Minister. If Elwood had
lived he would have made a preacher because he was a Bible scholar. Elwood & I married April 30, 1942. I am
now going on 86 years old. I drive
the car, in fact I have just bought a new Chevrolet and all I do is take three
grandchildren to school, pick them up in the evening, take them to the ball
game, 4-H meetings, band practice, golf practice, and every thing else they are
in while their mother and father work.
Elwood would be so pleased to have a part in the gathering and I
sincerely hope it will work out well for you.
I hope you have a fine showing.
That’s wonderful you are doing such a worth while thing. May God bless you and ever keep you
humble as you are now.
…..Mrs. S. E. (Louise) Mathis
…..Enclosed is my check for dues.
Received the December issue of Moore Memories which is another great issue.
Your work is much appreciated.
Special thanks for the photo of the Bell’s flag again flying and the
decal. Also the list of destroyers
sunk during WWII is very interesting.
Many thanks to you for a job well done.
…..William D. Meyer
…..You are doing a good job on the
newsletter. I like the report on the
Destroyers that were destroyed along with their crews. I was familiar with about 10 of them. I never knew the details of how many were
lost. The truth about them wasn’t
published during the war. For the
past 20 years I have become a writer.
I had written this poem during the war.
Thought you might like it. My dues
are enclosed.
…..Donald Wall
Note:
I loved the poem and will try to print it in this issue. I have so much mail I may have to wait
for the next issue.
…..Here’s to notify you that William
Frederick Erickson died on September 20, 1987.
He did serve on the USS Bell in WWII and was from Ohio at that time.
…..Mrs. W. F. Erickson
…..In reply to your letter dated February
11, I am the daughter of Roy Alton Cameron.
My Dad is the person you are looking for. He is now 80 years old, mentally alert,
but not in good physical condition.
He has gout and arthritis, and walks with a cane.
He does get around, but slowly.
He asked me to tell you he was on two different ships during World War
II. One being the USS Bell and also
the USS Kenneth Whiting. If you plan
any type of reunion, I will try me best to help his attend. Also, if there is a Newsletter or some
type of publications your Association promotes, he would certainly like to
subscribe. He was very pleased to
receive your communication and honored that your Association contacted him. We have a lot of his pictures made during
the War, some with crews and pictures of the ships.
He is a very proud Veteran and a retired 30 year school teacher. He appreciates your efforts and looks
forward to your response.
…..Darlene Cameron Sherrill
…..Whatever would we do without you to
keep us up to date on all the old – whoops! I meant “long time friends”! We are a little more limited in our
activities, but we are planning to make the reunion at Newport in October if all
goes well and the dam don’t break. I am trying to get a house (the one we lived
in when we had the reunion here) ready to sell which has been quite a job and
I’ll feel so relieved if I can get it sold this spring. We had a tenant in it for about 5 years
and he really left things in an awful mess.
Randall and I have both had bronchitis twice the first of the year, so I
am really looking forward to spring and some nice sunny weather! We hope you are feeling well, and we’re
really looking forward to seeing you. It is my most sincere opinion that you’re
an angel sent by God to add your lovely personality and wonderful capabilities
to these old sailors and their ladies.
We love you!
…..Marianne & Randy Clark
Now, Marianne, I’m not sure my daddy would
agree about the angel part! Thank
you and I look forward to seeing you both in Newport.
…..A little of the information you
requested. My Dad, Sam Canova, died
April 5, 1978. He was a BK3. My mom is Margaret A. Canova. It’s been a while wince we last visited
the Kidd, but I may return to visit again.
It would be nice to know if anyone is still around to remember my Dad. I
have some old pictures in the Navy, but mom doesn’t know who the friends are.
I am not sure of the time frame, but someone may remember.
Thanks.
…..Sam Canova
…..I am happy that someone remembered our
ship. I remember Glen and William
Sanders. Well, I ate their cooking
for thirty two months. I am so sorry
to see that most of my shipmates that I know are deceased. Commander Petros was our first Commander.
He was a great one. We never entered port that he didn’t have
liberty secured and some body going ashore.
I am 87 the 20th of April.
My wife and I have been married 56 years the 26th of March. We have two daughters and a son. We have eleven grand children, 5 girls, 2
boys, 3 great grandsons and daughters.
I am writing this in my own hand.
Hope you can read it. I won’t be able to attend the reunion, but thank you for
inviting me. Sorry I can’t be there. I was the throttleman in the aft engine
room until they moved me to forward engine room to make fresh water for the
ship. They called me the Salt Water King. Ha Ha.
…..Robert T. Baker
…..My name is Eddie Warren and my father
was James Wesley Warren who served on the USS Bell between March 1944 and
December 21, 1945. James Wesley
Warren was born March 16, 1911 in Ione, Logan County, Arkansas. After being discharged from the Navy on
December 21, 1945, he stayed the first year in California, then moved to
Booneville, Arkansas. In 1952, he
moved to Ft. Smith, Arkansas and this is where he was living when he died May 9,
1995. He is buried in the Carolan
Cemetery outside of Booneville, Arkansas.
James Wesley Warren married Mazel Miles Mullins on August 16, 1937. They had two children Billie Jean Warren
and James Eddie Warren. I would like
to know more about the USS Bell Association.
After my father died I have been gathering information on our family’s
history. I have a picture of the USS
Bell along with a short history of the ship.
I have been trying to get a copy of the ship’s log during the time my
father served. Both my mother and I
would like to be kept informed. Have
you been able to locate most of the men that served on the ship? How many are still alive? Are there plans
for a reunion? My father was proud
of the time he served in the Navy and on the USS Bell.
…..Eddie Warren
…..Thanks for the Moore Memories. I have looked for information on the Bell
crew for many years. Thank you for
finding me. I am very happy to join
the Bell Association. Please find
enclosed a check for dues for my wife Jacqueline and myself and for two caps.
…..James R. Henson
…..I enjoyed your website and would like
to join the association. My father
was Anthony Louis Paultanis who served on the Bell for most of the Pacific War.
In my family room is a picture drawing of the Bell.
My father passed away in 1988 of a massive heart attack but he was always proud
of the Bell. He was a fireman first
class. In your photo section there is a picture of a burning ship. I believe my father carried a similar
picture with him as he was almost ready to board the ship for damage control. So
close he could touch the other ship when the Bell was ordered to move away as
the ship was going down. That ship
might be the “Almaly Bay”, a converted carrier flattop whose own plane crashed
on deck that resulted in the sinking.
I can remember my Dad talking about how the Bell accidentally rammed the Hornet
in the rear while refueling and how the crew of the Hornet would wave away the
Bell whenever she got close to the Hornet.
Any information you have about the Bell would be appreciated and I’ll
keep checking the website. How can I
also get a USS Bell hat? Thanks for
your help and this is a good web site.
…..Andrew Paultanis
…..I was cleaning my house and found the
letter you sent unopened. It had
fallen behind some furniture. My
grandfather was in the Navy in WWI and WWII.
His name was Charles Benjamin Reinhardt.
I am Charles Benjamin Reinhardt, III.
Charles Benjamin Reinhardt, Jr., my father, died in 1984. Please let me know if my grandfather was
on the ship. He was born January 4
around 1893 and died January 30, 1985.
As far as I know, he served in the Navy during WWI and WWII. I am very interested in knowing anything
you could tell me since my father died when I was 9 and my grandfather 1 year
later.
…..Charles Reinhardt III
…..My father is J.R. Henson who served on
the Bell. He just recently heard
from you and is sending his association dues.
He is so excited. He does not
have Internet capabilities at the present time so I am viewing the website for
him. I must have missed something. I could not find where to order the caps.
Please send me the information so I can get him a cap.
For Father’s Day a few years ago, I had a USS Bell DD587 cap custom embroidered. He loves it but the destroyer is not a
Fletcher class. I would very much
like for him to have the same cap his shipmates have.
…..Les Henson
…..I haven’t forgotten you or the Bell.
I have had my mind on health problems for a few years.
I am years behind on dues so here is my check to catch up.
Unless something unforeseen happens we will not be able to make the
reunion.
…..Bob Turner
Hurry and get well, Bob. We miss you.
…..I am sending you a list of names and
addresses of men that was on the USS Bell that I didn’t see in any of the
material that you sent me. I really
enjoyed the Newsletters that I have received about the USS Bell and the men that
were on it.
…..Francis Harpole
…..Hi.
You have my correct address.
Just returned from a vacation.
What’s UP? Yes, I served on the
Bell.
…..Ed Klenka
…..Thank you for your recent memo
concerning eligibility for medals and ribbons.
I was completely unaware of the Combat Action Ribbon so have submitted an
application. Enclosed is check for
two additional USS Bell baseball caps.
Have certainly enjoyed the Website.
Congratulations to your cousins for a job well done. Incidentally, the
photo of the burning ship could be better described. I have a print of that photo which was
supplied to us by the photographer on the USS Burns. The burning ship is the USS Ommaney Bay
(a CVE) which was hit by a Japanese kamikaze on 4 January 1945. To the rear is the BELL as we were
attempting to go along side to fight the fire.
There was no hope of saving the CVE to the BELL and BURNS stayed behind
to look for survivors while the balance of the task force went on to the
landings at Lingayen Gulf. After
dark, the search was discontinued and the BURNS torpedoed the CVE to eliminate
the smoke which marked the area for the enemy. This action took place in the
Sulu Sea between the Mainland and the Phillippines.
The BELL picked up many survivors including the captain, exec and air officer of
the carrier whom we took into Lingayen Gulf to be transferred to other ships
better able to house them. Keep up
the great work.
…..William D. Meyer
…..I received the Newsletter for March and
enjoyed the mailbag. I made contact
with George Irvin Adams from Reading, PA.
Will be going out to breakfast or lunch soon. Would like to know how to obtain the cap.
….. John Rickenbach
…..Hope this letter finds you in good
health. As for me I’m in good health
for my age. I have made my
reservation for the reunion. The
only problem is that during a little redecoration the list for the trips and
dinner got misplaced. I would appreciate it if you could send
another copy.
…..Russell E. Halberg
…..The e-mail I sent earlier today is not
correct. I inadvertently copied the
beginning of my Navy career during WWII on the USS Benson (DD421). From the Benson I went to the USS Texas
and from the Texas to the Bell. I
transferred to the Bell (DD587 when it was commissioned in Charleston, SC about
April 1944 as a Radio Technician First Class.
I was transferred from the Bell about February 1945 back to the US and
the to Radio Technician Schools to enable me to advance to Chief Petty Officer.
This advancement never occurred. I
received a discharge on points one week after the Nagasaki Atom Bomb was
dropped. My civilian career has been in
electronics. You have my correct mail address. I’ve had my computer two months now and
my e-mail address is: Ahenchcliffe@aol.com. My present age is 84.
…..Alfred L. Henchcliffe
…..Frank Bernier is a neighbor of mine.
He asked me to respond to your letter dated February 7, 2001 concerning locating
shipmates of the USS Bell (DD587).
He is the Frank E. Bernier who served on the USS Bell.
…..Bob Pilkauskas
…..First of all I love the USS Bell
website. I told my mother about it
and the pictures. We have a couple
of pictures of my father in his uniform but no candid shots on the ship. My father James Wesley Warren was the
rank of Seaman 1/c. A also made a
copy of the letter you received from the Department of the Navy. I am going to order the medals coming to
my father. My mother said he never
received any of them. I have thought
of making a shadow box to display them in.
I have his dog tags and a few other items which I could put in it with his
medals. I got my mother a flag case for the flag he was given at his funeral.
…..Eddie Warren
…..Thank you for sending the inquiry about
Gordon Rusk and the USS Bell. Yes, Gordon Earl Rusk was on the USS Bell in the
Pacific during WWII. I have a copy
of his naval discharge. I am Gordon
Edward Rusk, his son. My father passed away in 1990. He and my mother were living in Florida
at the time. My mother also died two
years ago. I would be interested in
any general information you have regarding the ship, it’s tour of duty and
ultimate fate. Thank you and best of
luck in your searches.
…..G. E. Rusk
…..My parents will be delighted to hear from you. Jack L. Ogden & Roseann Ogden are moving
to Henderson, NV. They are very
excited to be making this move to their beautiful new home in Las Vegas and look
forward to hearing from you.
…..Sherie (Daughter)
I haven’t been able to locate all the men
I have on my list. I am really
excited to have found as many as I have.
I’m not through by any means and will continue to search. A long the way I have met some wonderful
people. Here are just a few.
…..Sorry I am not the Victor Harvey
Francis you seek, from the USS Bell.
Good luck with your search and God bless all who serve and have served.
…..Vic Francis, US Army 1966-69, Viet Nam 67-68
…..In regard to your search for former
shipmates, Donald LeRoy Nash. I
regret to inform you that my late husband, Donald Laverne Nash, is not the
shipmate you are looking for. Donald
Laverne Nash enlisted in the US Navy on Oct. 16, 1942 and was honorably
discharged March 26, 1944. He was
from the Swanton, Ohio area. I hope
you will succeed in finding the shipmate your are looking for.
…..Gladys V. Nash
…..I regret to announce that I am not the
John Morgan you are trying to locate.
I am forwarding a couple of pages from Volume XIII (USN Operations WWII. I was an “Airdale” (AMM1/c) aboard the
Escort Carrier (USS Salamanua
CVE-96). The Bell operated with our Carrier
Division (Admiral Durgin) in the Kincaids (AKA-MacArthurs) 7th.
Fleet. The “Bell” was assigned to Admiral
Stump’s Carrier Division when the USS Ommaney Bay (CVE-79 was sunk (01-04-45). We were on the way up to Lingayen Gulf
with them at that time. We got hit
by a “K-bird” on January 13, 1945 (after the Lingayen Landing) and we went back
to San Francisco for repairs. We
went back out to Okinawa with another VC Squadron.
We got into the typhoon (June 5-6, 1945), and ended in Guam for repairs.
We were there for another six weeks. About the middle of July we went out again
from Guam and operated off Okinawa with the 3rd and 5th
Fleets. We ended up in Tokyo Bay on Sept. 2nd.
We were the only Escort Carrier to make the trip to Tokyo Bay. My original Squadron (VC-87) Ships
Company (CVE-96 and Squadron VC-70 have had a reunion every year since 1991. It is great to see our “old” shipmates. I have made every year reunion, and hope
to make Las Vegas in October. It was
much harder to formulate addresses (in 1990) than it is today with computers. I was assigned New England and the East
Coast, and had to go through telephone directories at local libraries. Today you can search address so easy. I hope you have good luck in locating the
former shipmates of the USS Bell.
Good luck.
…..John E. Morgan
…..Received your interesting letter
recently. Unfortunately I am not the
John Leonard you are seeking. It
would be nice to tell you I was the one and so end your search. I should also mention that I am ex-navy. I should also like to look up some of my
“ole buddies” and would ask you how I should go about it. You must be pretty expert at it and of
course you found me. I’m not too
computer literate. My use of the
computer is mostly involved with e-mail.
I hope this communication finds you in good health.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Slainte (To your health in Gaelic)
…..John Leonard
…..I received this letter 5/5/2001. I was not a member of the USS Bell nor do
I know of anyone who was. I would
like to thank all members for their service to our country.
…..Jay Roberts
…..I wish I could say I’m the Douglas
Alexander Ross you’re searching for. I’m
Douglas Alan Ross, born August 27, 1953 and lived in the D.C. area for many
years before moving to LA in 1999.
Uncanny, though. My dad
(alive and well) is Thomas H. Ross, 1950 graduate of the Naval Academy, and my
parents still live in Annapolis, Md.
And my mother’s name is Ann. In any
case, best of luck in your quest to locate shipmates.
…..Douglas A. Ross
…..Received your letter today. Regretfully, I am not the Robert M. Vance
you are seeking. Checked out your
webpage and found it to be absolutely wonderful.
I did lose a paternal uncle, Jack Vance, on Iwo Jima during the war.
I know of not other Vances originally from Mississippi who would have served
during WWII.
…..Bob Vance
SOME
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
Senator Cleland has asked me to reply to your inquiry. Anyone serving on the destroyer BELL
(DD587) throughout World War II would be eligible for the following service
awards:
AMERICAN CAMPAIGN MEDAL
ASIATIC-PACIFIC CAMPAIGN MEDAL
1
Star/Pacific Raids, 1943
Wake Island Raid
1
Star/Bismarck
Archipelago Operation
Kavieng Strikes, 1943-1944
1 Star/Marshall Islands
Operation
Occupation of Kwajalein and Majuro, 1944
1
Star/Asiatic-Pacific Raids, 1944
Truk Attack
Marianas Attack
Palau, Yap, Ulithi, Woleai Raid
Truk, Satawan, Ponape Raid
1 Star/Hollandia
Operation (Aitape, Humboldt
Bay, Tanahmerah Bay), 1944
1
Star/Marianas
Operation
Capture and Occupation of Saipan, 1944
First Bonins Raid, 1944
Battle of the Philippine Sea, 1944
Second Bonins Raid, 1944
Third Bonins Raid, 1944
Capture & Occupation of Guam, 1944
Palau, Yap, Ulithi Raid, 1944
Fourth Bonins Raid, 1944
1
Star/Western New
Guinea Operations
Morotai Landings, 1944
1
Star/Western
Caroline Islands Operation
Capture and Occupation of Southern Palau
Islands, 1944
Assaults on the Philippine Islands, 9144
1
Star/Leyte
Operation
Third Fleet Supporting Operations: Okinawa
Attack, 1944
Northern Luzon and Formosa Attacks, 1944
Luzon Attacks, 1944
Battle of Surigao Strait, 1944
1
Star/Luzon
Operation
Lingayen Gulf Landing, 1945
1
Star/Antisubmarine
Assessment: Participation in
Sinking of Japanese Submarine RO-115, 1945
1
Star/Borneo
Operations
Brunei Bay operation, 1945
Balikpapan Operation, 1945
WORLD WAR II VICTORY MEDAL
I hope this will assist your members.
Marshall A. Hall, Captain, USS Navy
Deputy Director of Naval History
MEMORY LANE
Log Book of the USS Bell DD587 – Commanded by John S. C. Gabbert,
Commander, USN. Attached to 102nd
Division, 51st Squadron, 7th Fleet – Commencing 1 January,
1945, Enroute to Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands and ending 31 January, 1945
Enroute to Ulithi Atoll, Caroline Islands.
Monday 1 January 1945 –
00 to 04 Anchored in berth #79 Kossol Roads, Palau Islands in 16
fathoms of water, sand and coral bottom with 90 fathoms of chain to
the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Beacon “B” 075 ½ (T), Beacon “G” 314(T),
and Beacon “A” 137 ½ (T). Boiler #4 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships
present are various units of the Seventh Fleet and numerous naval auxiliary
vessels. 0200 Set all clocks back one hour to minus 9 time zone. 0330 Lighted
fires under #1 boiler.
04 to 08 Anchored as before.
0415 Cut in #1 and #4 boilers on the main steam line. 0445
Stationed the special sea details and made all preparations for
getting underway. 0526 Got underway and proceeded to clear Cossol Roads via East
entrance, Captain and Navigator were on the bridge the Captain was conning. 0545
Passed through East Entrance leaving Kossol Anchorage. Went to General Quarters
for sortie. 0558 Secured General Quarters. 0615 Commenced patrolling screening
sector awaiting sortie of the heavy ships. 0616 Executed sunrise. 0750 Commenced
taking station for gunnery exercise as the heavy ships completed sortie. Screen formed two columns with guides 10
degrees on either bow of the leading carrier distance 5,000 yards. The Battleships and Cruisers with a 4
ship screen proceeded to stem independently for gunnery exercises. This vessel
taking station in port column 400 yards astern of the USS BURNS as fourth ship
in column. Formation course 070(T), (PGC), 069 (PSC), speed 15 knots. 0750
Mustered the crew on stations.
08 to 12 Steaming as before. This force task group 77.2 and task
group 77.4 with ComBatRon1,
Vice Admiral OLDENDORF in the USS CALIFORNIA O.T.C. is enroute in
accordance with ComBatRon 1’s movement order #1-44. 0821 Went to general
quarters for gunnery exercise. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and
speeds engaging in A.A. firing. 0841 Commenced firing on a towed sleeve. 1021
Completed A.A. firing. This vessel fired Baker and George runs and expended 60
5”/38ca. A.A. common projectiles, 60 5”/38cal. Smokeless powder cartridges, and
114 rounds of 40mm ammunition. 1035 The task group completed gunnery exercises.
Course is 350(T), (PGC), 34 (PSC). Speed is 16 knots. 1102 This force formed in
disposition 6-RO on course and 000(T), (PSC), 359 (PSC) and speed 13 knots.
The USS MAKIN ISLAND guide. This vessel took station#18 of a 23 ship screen,
with the guide bearing 040(T), distance 7,000 yards. 1155 Secured the gyro
compass to repair a short in the 30 to 1 transmitter unit.
Steered and maneuvered by the standard compass. Made daily inspection of
magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.
12 to 16 Steaming as before. 1203 Changed formation course to 305(T),
(PGC), 304 (PSC). 1209 Commence zig-zagging in accordance with plan #23. 1249
Changed formation speed to 14 knots. 1330 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base
course. Rotated fleet course and
axis to the left to 315(T). Changed formation speed to 12 knots. This vessel is
in station #18 with the guide bearing 355 distance 7,000 yards.
1358 Changed formation speed to 15 knots. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance
with plan #23. 1410 Lit off superheaters on boiler #4. 1417 Lit off superheaters
on boiler #1. 1448 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course.
16 to 20 Steaming asbefore. 1600 Changed formation course and axis to
274(T), (PGC),
270(PSC), speed 12 knots. 1725 Changed formation speed to 16 knots.
Resumed zig- zagging.
1810 The USS GRIDLEY reported a sound contact. 1814 Executed emergency turn
right to 297(T), (PGC), 273(PSC). 1816 The contact was not a submarine. 1817
Changed formation course to 274(T), (PGC), 273(PSC). 1823 Commenced zig-zagging
in accordance with plan #23. 1901 Executed sunset. 1907 Ceased zig-zagging and
resumed base course. 1930 Mustered the departmental reports.
20 to 24 Steaming as before.
2200 Changed formation course and axis to 270(T), (PGC), 269 (PSC). The guide now bears 310(T), distance
7,000 yards. 2240 The gyro compass
is now operating as repairs have been completed.
Tuesday 2 January 1945 –
00 to 04 – Underway enroute from Kossol Roads, Palau Islands, to
Leyte Gulf, P.I. Steaming in company
with task groups 77.2 and 77.4 in accordance with ComBatRon 1’s movement order
#1-44. O.T.C. is ComBatRon1, Vice
Admiral OLDENDORF, in the USS CALIFORNIA. Ships present are the USS CALIFORNIA,
USS PENNSYLVANIA, USS WEST VIRGINIA, USS COLORADO, USS MAKIN ISLAND, USS NATOMA
BAY, USS LUNGA POINT, USS SALAMAUA, USS BISMARCK SEA, USS HOGGATT BAY, USS
MANILA BAY, USS STEAMER BAY, USS OMMANEY BAY, USS WAKE ISLAND, USS TULAGI, USS
SAVO ISLAND, USS COLUMBIA. DesDiv
111 less USS NEWCOMB AND USS BENNION plus the USS IZARD, DesRon 6 less the USS
CRAVEN and USS MUGFORD, Desdiv101, less the USS HARADEN, USS PAUL HAMILTON, plus
the USS BELL and USS BURNS, CortDiv 70, less USS GOODY and USS GILLIGAN, plus
the USS EDMONDS, USS H.F. CLARK and USS STAFFORD, Transdiv 101, plus the USS
BULL and Transdiv 102, plus the USS BLESSMAN. Cruising in disposition 6-RO, axis
315(T), on course 270(T), 269 (PGC) 269 (PSC).
Formation guide is the USS MAKIN ISLAND in the formation center and bears
310(T), 7,100 yards from this vessel which is in station #18 of a 23 ship
screen. Steaming on boilers #1 and
#4 at fleet speed 16 knots and zig-zagging in accordance with plan #23.
04 to 08 – Steaming as before.
0544 Went to general quarters for dawn alert. 0615 Held security and destruction drill.
0619 Called away the Jettison party.
0623 Held abandon ship drill. 0627
Held steering casualty drill. 0632 Executed sunrise.
0636 Secured from general quarters.
0637 Secured from steering casualty drill.
0730 Mustered the crew on stations.
08 to 12 – Steaming as before.
0828 The USS RALPH TALBOT and this vessel left the screen to act as
targets for exercise 2 Baker.
Steering various course at various speeds during exercise. 1055 Completed
tracking exercise, this vessel maneuvering to resume former station. 1117 This force formed in disposition
4-RO. Rear group of formation changed speed to 11 knots. This vessel maneuvering
to take station #10 in cruising disposition 4-RO Modified, with USS NATOMA BAY,
guide, bearing 310(T), distance 7,400 yards.
Formation axis 270(T), course 270(T), 269 (PGC, 271 (PSC). The guide is
in station 2.5315. The anti-submarine screen is on the 7,000 yard circle. Commenced securing superheaters. Made
daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.
12 to 16 – Steaming as before. 1203 Commenced zig-zagging in
accordance with plan #23 on base course 270(T). Changes formation speed to 12
knots. 1245 Held steering casualty drill. 1321 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed
base course. 1323 Steering various courses while the carriers conducted flight
operations. 1325 BRUTON, Stanley Kent, 225 49 49, S1c(GM), USN, HILL, George
Henry, 944 15 92, S1c, SV-6, USNR and GRUBE, Joseph Leo, 944 17 83, S2c, SV-6,
USNR, were overcome by paint locker fumes.
Artificial ventilation was provided to the paint locker by a blower.
Men were examined by the ship’s doctor and found to be all right. They were
turned in for the remainder of the day. 1359 Secured from steering casualty
drill. 1330 Steering various courses at various speeds while the carriers
conducted flight operations. 1448 Commenced simulated air attacks.
1449 Went to general quarters for drill in tracking. 1500 Lighted off
superheaters on boilers #1 and #4. 1505 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with
plan #23 on base course 270(T). Changed formation speed to 16 knots. 1524 Ceased
zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1542 Secured from general quarters, set
condition 2M. 1548 Steering various courses at various speeds while the carriers
conducted flight operations.
16 to 18 – Steaming as before. 1617 Changed formation on course to
270(T), 289(PSC). 1624 Changed formation speed to 18 knots. 1707 Changed formation course to 190(T),
189(PGC, 187(PSC). 1710 Changed formation speed to 16 knots. 1716 Maneuvered to form cruising
disposition 6-RO. This vessel took station #18, with the USS MAKIN ISLAND,
guide, bearing 309(T), distance 7,000 yards. 1724 Changed formation speed to 18
knots. 1757 Changed formation course to 505(T), 049(PGC), 053 (PSC).
18 to 20 – Steaming as before. Changed formation speed to 18 knots.
1809 Changed formation course to 270(T), 269 (PGC), 270(PSC) and changed
formation speed to 15 knots. 1820 Executed sunset. Changed formation course to
293(T), 292(PGC), 293(PSC). 1930 Mustered the departmental reports. 1936 Ceased
zig-zagging, resumed base course.
20 to 24 – Steaming as before. 2149 Commenced zig-zagging in
accordance with plan #23.
Wednesday 3 January 1945
00 to 04 – Underway in company with units of task groups 77.4 and
77.2 with Combatron 1, Vice Admiral OLENDORF, in the USS CALIFORNIA, OTC. This
force is enroute from KOSSOL ROADS, PALAU ISLANDS to Leyte Gulf, P.I. The force
is steaming in two groups in disposition 6-RO, axis 315(T), course 293(T), 292
(PGC), 292(PSC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan #23. Speed is 15 knots.
This vessel is in station #18 of a 23 ship screen with the guide, the USS MAKIN
ISLAND bearing 309(T), 7,000 yards.
Steaming on boilers #1 and #3.
0026 Changed formation course to 277(T), 275(PGC, 276(PSC). 0200 Made
radar contact on HOMOHAN ISLAND bearing 015(T), 55 miles and on DINAGAT ISLAND
bearing 272(T), 49 miles. Several radar contacts were made on planes during the
watch, but all were friendly.
04 to 08 Steaming as before. 0410 Lighted fires under boilers #1 and
#3. 0413 Ceased zig-zagging. 0420 Changed formation course and axis to 300(T),
299(PGC), 300(PSC). 0428 Secured #2 and #4 boilers. 0500 Numerous radar contacts
were made on ships which were friendly. 0525 Made radar contact on Leyte Island
bearing 270(T), 80,000 yards. 0523 Pass SULUAN ISLAND abeam to starboard bearing
030(T), 17 miles. 0545 Changed formation course to 263(T), 262(PGC), 259(PSC).
0554 Went to general quarters for dawn alert and for passage through the Surigao
Straits and Mindanao Sea. 0623 Passed DINAGAT ISLAND abeam to port .4 miles.
0648 The USS IZARD in screening station #1 reported a mine ahead of the USS
COLUMBIA. 0656 Executed sunrise. 0700 The USS BAGLEY LEFT STATION AND SANK THE
MINE BY GUN FIRE. 0730 Changed formation course and axis to 183(T), 182(PGC),
181 (PSC). This group commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds in
lower Leyte Gulf and commenced forming in to two groups in formation 4-RO as 3
tankers and units of the task groups already in Leyte Gulf joined the formation.
08 to 12 – Steaming as before on various course and speeds. 0940 This
vessel took station #10 on the inner screen which contains 6 battleships and
cruisers and 6 destroyers. The USS SUOMINCO in center is guide, bearing 213(T),
3,500 yards. 1042 Changed formation
speed to 14.5 knots. 1106 Changed formation course and axis to 217(T), 216(PGC),
213(PSC). This force is now enroute to Lingayen Gulf, P.I. for operations. 1122
Changed formation course and axis to 241(T), 240(PGC), 235(PSC). 1132 Passed
PANAON ISLAND abeam to starboard bearing 331(T), 5 miles. 1142 The USS BRUTON made a possible sound
contact. 1144 An enemy plane was reported bearing 130(T), 35 miles. 1148 Changed
formation course to 331(T), 330(PGC), 329(PSC). 1151 Changed formation course
and axis to 241(T), 240(PGC), 239(PSC). Made daily inspection of magazines and
smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.
12 to 16 – Steaming as before. 1221 Changed formation speed to 14
knots. 1228 Changed formation course to 245(T), 244(PCG), 241(PSC). 1246 Lighted
fires under boilers #2 and #3. 1320 Secured boilers #2 and #3. 1407 Commenced
maneuvering on various course and speeds as the carriers engaged in flight
operations. 1517 The carriers completed flight operations. Changed formation
course to 241(T), 240(PGC), 239(PSC) and commenced zig-zagging in accordance
with plan #23. 1517 Passed GAMIGUIN ISLAND to the southward, distance 14 miles.
1553 Changed formation speed to 15 knots.
16 to 20 – Steaming as before. 1635 Ceased zig-zagging and changed
formation course to 060(T), 059(PGC), 061(PSC) and the carriers engaged in
flight operations. 1712 The carriers completed flight operations. Changed
formation course to 241(T), 240(PGC), 239(PSC). 1727 Resumed zig-zagging. 1803
An unidentified aircraft was reported bearing 300(T). 1817 Changed formation
speed to 15 knots. 1828 Ceased zig-zagging and the carriers commenced flight
operations. 1837 Executed sunset. 1844 The carriers completed flight operations.
1846 Went to alert, an unidentified aircraft reported bearing 231(T), 11 miles.
1854 The 1846 contact was now bearing 230(T), 20 miles. 1900 Was again alerted,
an enemy aircraft reported bearing 149(T), 21 miles. 1902 The 1900 contact now
bears 120(T), 10 miles. 1903 The USS NEW MEXICO assumed guide. 1908 Observed gun
fire at the other group. 1909 HMAS SHROPSHIRE reported that a suicide dive
bomber crashed in the water 100 yards from her. 1912 The formation screen
forward opened fire on an enemy plane. 1919 Lighted fires under #2 and #3
boilers and placed them on the auxiliary steam line. 1922 An enemy plane was
bearing 020(T), 5 miles. 1926 Changed formation course to 234(T),233(PGC),
227(PSC). 1944 The enemy plane contacted at 1922 has cleared the area.
Set condition.
20 to 24 – Steaming as before. 2052 Changed formation course and axis
to 266(T), 265(PGC),264(PSC). 2152 Passed TAZOLO POINT, MINDANAO ISLAND abeam to
port, 13 miles. 2159 Changed formation course and axis to 257(T), 256(PGC),
254(PSC). 2342 Changed formation course and axis to 279(T), 278(PGC), 276 (PSC).
Thursday 4 January 1945 –
00 to 04 –Underway in company with task units 77.4.2 and 77.2.1 in
disposition 5-RN enroute from Leyte Gulf, P.I. to Lingayen Gulf, P.I. in
accordance with Comtaskgroup 79.4.2 Op Order #3-44. Task units 77.4.1 and 77.2.2 are steaming
in the vicinity. Formation axis is 240(T), course is 279(T), 278(PGC) and
276(PSC), speed is 15 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan #23. This ship
is in station #10 of a 12 ship inner screen on the 2,500 yard circle composed of
6 battleships and cruisers and 6 destroyers. The guide, USS MEXICO bears 256(T),
4,700 yards. There are 22 destroyers
and APD’s on the outer screen and 8 escort carriers are in the center. OTC is
Rear Admiral NEYLER in the USS NEW MEXICO. Vice Admiral Oldendorf is in the USS
CALIFORNIA, in task unit 77.4.2 is SOP and OTC of the combined groups.
0045 An enemy plane was reported at9 miles.
Went to general quarters. Changed formation speed to 14.5 knots. 0047 The enemy
plane now bears 200(T), 6 miles.
0050 The USS MAKIN ISLAND lost a man overboard.
He was rescued at 0112 by the USS LUTZE. 0117 The enemy plane has cleared the
area. Secured from general quarters, having received the all clear signal, set
condition 2M. 0207 Ceased zig-zagging. 0228 Changed formation speed to 14 knots.
0238 Changed formation course and axis to 330(T),(PGC), 328 (PSC). 0247 Resumed
zig-zagging. 0256 An enemy plane approached to within 19 miles. Went to general
quarters. 0309 The plane opened, secured from general quarters. 0333 An enemy
aircraft closed to 7 ½ miles on bearing 098(T). Went to general quarters.
04 to 08 – Steaming as before. 0411 Set condition Modified Able. 0435
Set condition 1 Easy. 0455 Secured from general quarters, set condition 2M. 0611
Ceased zig-zagging and resume base course 330(T), 299 (PGC), 333(PSC). 0616 USS
MAKIN ISLAND was designated OTC. 0625 Formed disposition 4-RO and took station
on circle 3.5 in the inner screen. 0629 Changed formation course to 050(T),
359(PGC), 051(PSC). USS NEW MEXICO, guide, bears 255(T), range 6,800 yards.
Changed formation speed to 17 knots. The carriers commenced flight operations.
0635 Went to general quarters for dawn alert. 0644 Unidentified plan reported
bearing 100(T), distance 16 miles. 0647 Changed formation speed to 14.5 knots.
0648 Received air alert, unidentified plane now at 11 miles. 0650 Carriers
completed flight operations. Changed formation course to 330(T) (PGC, 330(PSC).
0656 Changed formation axis to 330(T). The guide bears 090(T), range 3,500
yards. 0700 Task group commenced fueling exercises. 0711 Executed sunrise and
secured from general quarters, set condition 2M. 0740 Stationed the special sea
details. Steering various courses and speeds to go alongside the USS SALAMONIE.
Fueling course is 330(T), 329(PGC), 330(PSC). Speed is 10 knots. 0749 First line
was across to the tanker. Draft was 13’9” aft. 0757 Commenced fueling.
08 to 12 – Steaming as before, port side to the USS SALAMONIE. 0823
Completed fueling, having received 1104 barrels of fuel oil, draft after fueling
14’0” forward, 14’9” aft. 0828 Cleared the USS SALAMONIE, maneuvering to resume
station #10 in the inner screen. 0831 Secured the special sea details. 0930
Changed formation speed to 14 knots. 0932 Changed formation course to 080(T),
079 (PCC, 082(PSC). The carriers maneuvered into the wind for flight operations.
0950 Changed formation course to 353(T), 352 (PGC), 353(PSC).
Changed formation speed to 10 knots. 0959 Changed formation course to 000(T),
359(PGC), 006(PSC). 1116 Changed formation course to 353(T), 352(PGC), 358(PSC).
Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions
normal.
12 to 16 – Steaming as before. 1229 Changed formation speed to 17
knots. 1232 Changed formation speed to 18 knots. 1238 Carriers commenced flight
operations. 1239 Changed formation speed to 10 knots. 1244 The USS NEW MEXICO
assumed tactical command of the task group. 1450 The USS MANILA BAY and USS
NATOMA BAY exchanged stations. 1455 USS STEAMER BAY and USS OMMANEY BAY
exchanged stations. 1505 Passed 100 fathom curve. 1513 Changed formation speed
to 15 knots. Standard speed is 15 knots. 1529 Changed formation speed to 10
knots. 1530 The USS WALKE entered this formation to fuel.
16 to 20 – Steaming as before. 1644 The USS NEW MEXICO was designated
formation guide bearing 345(T), distance 6,750 yards. 1705 Commenced zig-zagging
in accordance with plan #23. 1710 The tankers dropped back from the formation
center to the 5,000 yard circle. 1712 Went to alert, enemy aircraft were
overhead. 1713 the USS OMMANEY BAY
in station about 1800 yards on the port bow of this vessel had an enemy suicide
dive bomber crash through her flight deck near the island structure setting her
afire. This vessel broke out all fire fighting gear and proceeded towards the
USS OMMANEY BAY to assist her. 1717 The USS PATTERSON, USS BURNS and this vessel
were ordered to stand by the USS OMMANEY BAY. The USS OMMANEY BAY was circling
to port with about 8 knots way on and was obviously out of control. A number of
her crew were sighted in the water near the USS WEST VIRGINIA and this vessel
was ordered to pick them up. 1720 As vessels of the screen arrived in this area,
several other destroyers and destroyer escorts stopped and commenced picking up
survivors. It was now evident that
the USS OMMANEY BAY was abandoning ship. Men were leaving over her bow and
stern. 1733 A boat load of survivors, including a man with an amputated arm were
taken aboard and several other less injured personnel. 1736 Sufficient ships
were now engaged in picking up survivors. Proceeded to go alongside the USS
OMMANEY BAY and fight the fire. Placed our bow against her starboard bow at
right angles to keep this ship clear of the overhang of her flight deck. Five
hoses were directed against the fire but proved ineffective due to the rapidity
with which the fire spread. Ammunition had been exploding on the USS OMMANEY BAY
for some time now. While maneuvering to remain in position alongside, this
ship’s bow was carried right by the forward motion of the USS OMMANEY BAY and
the port bridge wing made contact with the USS OMMANEY BAY’S forward starboard
40mm gun platform. The following damage to this vessel resulted: Spray shield
bent in; port pelcris was snapped off and the MK.51 director for the port
forward 40mm gun was demolished. Placed the motor whaleboat in the water to
rescue personnel leaving the carrier. 1754 As attempts to combat the fire were
ineffective and all operations were obscured by smoke, this vessel backed clear
of the USS OMMANEY BAY to make another attempt in a more advantageous position.
1758 Placed the gig in the water to rescue survivors. 1802 The USS BURNS went
alongside the port bow of the USS OMMANEY BAY and this vessel remained clear so
as not to embarrass her. 1814 Two violent explosions occurred on the USS OMMANEY
BAY throwing debris and smoke over the area. This vessel was 300 yards off her
starboard quarter. All hands took cover. The USS BURNS cleared the USS OMMANEY
BAY with no apparent damage. 1843 Executed sunset. 1900 All survivors had been
rescued. Hoisted in both boats. The task unit proceeded on its course and left
the USS BURNS, USS HAMILTON, USS TWIGGS and this vessel, with the Commanding
Officer of the USS BURNS in charge, to sink the USS OMMANEY BAY. 1920 This group
formed on line of bearing 909(T), with 5000 yards interval and made a sweep
through the area. 1943 The USS BURNS left the formation and sunk the USS OMMANEY
BAY by torpedo fire. 1956 The USS OMMANEY BAY exploded violently when it was hit
and sank. This vessel, in this operation rescued 49 officers and men. 2000 This
formation proceeded to join the USS BURNS and rejoined the task unit.
20 to 24 – Steaming as before. 2012 Left the formation to investigate
a flashing light near the spot where the USS OMMANEY BAY sank. 2035 The light
proved to be burning rubbish. 2040 Commenced rejoining the formation at 24
knots. 2054 Secured from general quarters, set conditions 2-M. 2231 Sighted a
fire on Mindoro Island. 2245
Rejoined the task unit and took station #10 in the screen. 2246 Went alongside
the USS MANILA BAY, port side to on course 340(T), 339 (PGC), 342(PSC) and
commenced transfer of survivors. 2354 The breeches buoy line parted as we backed
clear, as the USS MANILA BAY and this vessel commenced swinging toward each
other. 2356 Commenced another approach on the USS MANILA BAY’S starboard side in
an effort to keep the ships from swinging together.
Friday 5 January 1945
00 to 04 – Underway as part of task unit 77.4.2 which is steaming in
formation 4-RO with task unit 77.2.1, with Rear Admiral Neyler in the USS
MEXICO, OTC. Task units 77.4.1 and 77.2.2 are steaming in the van and Vice
Admiral OLDENDORF, is in the USS CALIFORNIA, in the van group and is OTC of the
combined formations. This force is enroute to Lingayen Gulf, PI. This formation
is at present stopped and destroyers are transferring USS OMMANEY survivors to
the larger ships. 0024 Went alongside the port quarter of the USS MANILA BAY and
resumed transfer of personnel. 0050
Changed formation course to 350(T), 349(PGC), 351(PSC) and the formation changed
speed to 10 knots. 0052 Went to alert as enemy aircraft approached the
formation. Cleared the USS MANIL BAY and resumed station #10 of a 12 ship inner
screen composed of battleships, cruisers and destroyers. 0106 Changed formation
speed to 15 knots. 0200 Secured from general quarters as no enemy planes remain
in the vicinity. 0250 An unidentified plane approached, went to general
quarters. 0252 The plane was friendly, set condition 1 Easy. 0300 Commenced
zig-zagging in accordance with plan #23. 0326 Went to alert, as an enemy plane
approached. 0327 The outer screen opened fire on the enemy plane. He commenced opening. 0338 A second enemy
plane reported bearing 078(T), 14 miles.
04 to 08 – Steaming as before. 0407 Secured from general quarters.
0440 Ceased zig-zagging. 0505 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan #23
on base course 330(T), 329(PGC), 329(PSC). 0526 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed
base course. 0646 Changed formation course to 060(T), 059(PGC), 060(PSC). 0645
Went to general quarters for dawn alert. 0658 Changed formation course to
300(T), 329(PGC), 301(PSC). 0727 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan
#23. 0732 Executed sunrise. Secured from general quarters. 0730 Mustered crew on
station.
08 to 12 – Steaming as before. 0841 The formation steamed on various
courses and speeds as the carriers engaged in flight operations. 0914 Went to
general quarters, as an unidentified plane closed the formation. 0917 The 0914
contact was a friendly plane. Secured from general quarters. 1015 Followed the
motions of the USS BURNS in half-masting the colors for funeral exercises aboard
the USS BURNS. 1040 Went to general quarters as an enemy plane was reported
overhead.1041 The 1040 contact was identified as a weather balloon. Secured from
general quarters. 1114 Changed formation axis to 000(T). Made daily inspection
of magazines and smokeless powder.
12 to 16 – Steaming as before. 1203 Changed formation course to
320(T), 319(PGC), 321(PSC). 1216 The carriers commenced flight operations. 1230
The carriers completed flight operations. Changed formation course to 325(T),
324(PGC), 326(PSC). 1240 Changed formation course to 300(T), 299(PGC), 301(PSC).
Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan #23. 1250 Went to general
quarters. Unidentified plane 18 miles to the eastward. 1307 Ceased zig-zagging
and resumed base course. 1311 Changed formation course to 315(T), 314(PGC),
317(PSC). 1336 Changed formation course to 330(T), 320(PGC), 333(PSC). 1340 The
USS HELM left station in the screen and proceeded to this vessel to pick up
passengers from this vessel for further transfer to the USS NATOMA BAY. 1352
Changed formation course to 350(T), 349(PGC), 351(PSC). 1356 The USS HELM came
alongside our port quarter. 1404 Commenced transferring personnel to the USS
HELM. 1405 Changed formation course to 330(T), 329(PGC), 333(PSC). 1415 Changed
formation course to 025(T), 024(PGC), 021(PSC) and changed speed to 16 knots.
This vessel continued on course 330(T) for transfer of personnel while the
carriers were conducting flight operations. 1432 This vessel maneuvered to
resume station. 1435 Secured from general quarters. 1440 Changed formation speed
to 17 knots. The carriers engaged in flight operations, steering various courses
and speeds.
16 to 20 – Steaming as before. 1615 Went to general quarters. Enemy
aircraft in the vicinity. 1622 Changed formation course to 010(T), 009(PGC)
)11(PSC). 1626 Enemy aircraft cleared the vicinity, set condition 1 Easy. 1632
Received an “all clear” signal. 1638 The USS MISSISSIPPI lost steering control.
1641 The USS MISSISSIPPI regained steering control. 1641 4 to 8 enemy planes
were reported bearing 102(T), 38 miles. 1652 Went to alert. Enemy planes
commenced attack on this formation. 1653 The task group opened fire. The planes
withdrew. 1655 It is believed that the enemy planes dropped torpedoes. Changed
formation course to 000(T) by emergency turn. 1708 The forward group is under
air attack and an enemy plane crashed into the USS LOUISVILLE’S bridge. 1716
Changed formation course to 045(T), 044(PGC), 046(PSC). 1730 The task unit
commenced landing aircraft. Enemy planes still remain in the area. 1735 The USS
TWIGGS opened fire on an enemy plane. Our planes cleared the formation. 1744
Eight enemy planes came in low on the water from the west and attacked the
formation. One plane hit the USS
STAFFORD in the engine room with a bomb and then crashed on the deck of the USS
MANILA BAY. A plane crashed into the port side of amidships of the HMAS
AUSTRALIA. A dive bomber was shot
down inside the screen to port near the HMAS AUSTRALIA. 1745 The combat Air
Patrol shot down 1 enemy dive bomber. A plane dived on the USS SAVO ISLAND. We
opened fire on him and he missed and crashed about 100 yards off her starboard
quarter. The plane which crashed the HMAS AUSTRALIA and the plane which crashed
the USS MANILA BAY started fires. These fires were put under control
immediately. The flight deck of the USS MANILA BAY was soon restored to
operating conditions. 1752 The USS BURNS and USS PATTERSON stood by the USS
MANILA BAY. She is having steering difficulty. 1758 All enemy planes have
cleared the area. The task unit resumed landing operations. 1759 The USS SAVO
ISLAND reported a small fire on the hanger deck, which was soon extinguished.
1807 the USS BURNS picked up personnel who were knocked over the side when the
USS MANILA BAY was struck. 1810 Passed the HMAS ARUNTA abeam to port, dead in
water. She had received battle damage. 1811 The USS STAFFORD requested a tow as
her firerooms were flooded and the USS HALLIGAN was designated to tow her. 1819
The USS STAFFORD requested permission to abandon ship. The USS PATTERSON is
standing by her. 1841 All clear signal given, set conditions to 1 Easy. 1842 It
was decided that the USS STAFFORD would not be abandoned. 1847 The USS STAFFORD
reported she was capable of steaming at 10 knots. 1906 Out course was now
000(T), 359(PGC), 003(PSC). Speed 14 knots. 1924 Went to alert. Enemy planes
again commenced closing the formation. None closed nearer than 20 miles. 1948
The USS McCALL, USS SIEVERLING and USS RALPH TALBOT joined this formation taking
stations in the outer screen. Expended in this action 96 rounds of 40mm and 41
rounds of 20mm ammunition.
20 to 24 – Steaming as before. 2007 Set condition 1 Easy. 2030
Changed formation speed to 15 knots. 2040 Set condition 2M. 2115 Mustered the
departmental reports. 2150 Changed formation speed to 10 knots. 2220 Changed
formation speed to 12 knots.
NOTE: USS OMMANEY BAY
lost 95 of her crew.
The following is an article from an old newspaper. There is no date and no indication which
paper it is from.
“Jolly good shoot! You saved the day and the battalion!” was the Australian
version of “well done” received by the destroyer, USS BELL, now at Mare Island
Naval Shipyard, on Independence Day 1945, off Balikpapan, Borneo.
A battalion of Australian troops, advancing on an airstrip outside
Balikpapan, found themselves heavily out numbered, and unable to retreat to safe
positions before sundown without loss of the battalion. The BELL, patrolling
offshore, came to the rescue, firing full broadsides at the Japanese shore
batteries, from which the enemy was forced to retire, allowing the Australians
to retreat in good order. “We fired three salvoes a minute, spotting our fire at
six minute intervals.” Says Comdr. Burton H. Shupper, USN, Bellflower,
California, the BELL’S commanding officer. “Right in the middle of the melee a
little PC boat came over the horizon and signaled us, “We have US mail on board
for you.” We signaled back, “come alongside on our disengaged side” – and she
did just that. Each terrific blast of our full salvo of five inch guns nearly
lifted the little PC clean out of the water – but she passed the bags over to us
– the mail went through!”
That was only one highlight of the BELL’S round-the-world Odyssey which
has taken her from the Navy Yard, Charleston, SC where she was commissioned in
March 1943, to Argentina, Newfoundland; Scapa Flow, Scotland; Eniwetok, Mapuro,
Hollandia, the Phillippines, Okinawa, Korea, Tsingtao and Chinwangtao. The BELL’S duties have been varied. She
escorted the British battleship QUEEN MARY, with Prime Minister Churchill
aboard, to Halifax in 1943. Operating with the British Home Fleet, she aided in
the search for the elusive German battleship Von Tirpitz. With the famous Task
Group 59 in the Pacific in 1944, she participated in the air strikes on
Hollandia, Truk, Guam, Iwo, Palau, and the Phillippines. After the First Battle
of the Phillippine Sea, the BELL and other destroyers covered the withdrawal of
the damaged cruisers HOUSTON and CANBERRA, for which Lt. Comdr. J.S.C. Gabbert,
USN, Los Angeles, California, then Commanding Officer, received the Silver Star
Medal and Letter of Commendation. Later, when the escort carrier OMMANEY BAY was
struck by a suicide bomber off Leyte, the BELL assisted in fighting fire and
picked up survivors. Following the Japanese surrender, the BELL was ordered to
Jinsen, Korea, to cover the occupation forces. She “toured” North China,
carrying passengers, mail and light freight as the first ship on the North China
Destroyer Mail Run, visiting Taku, Weihaiwei, Tsingtao and Shanghai. The BELL is
now undergoing overhaul at the Mare Island Naval Shipyard, preparatory to
joining the 19th (Reserve) Fleet.
NOTE: The USS BELL DD587 was used for
target practice and sunk 1 November
1972.
