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Bubblehead1980 · 07-25-21, 01:41 AM

TMO 2.5 with custom mods.
100 difficulty, cams and map contacts off.

USS Drum SS-228
War Patrol Eleven
9 September-9 November 1944
Area(s) Fish Pond, Briar Patch, Convoy College (Luzon Straits)

Patrol Chart.

(A) Prologue

Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H., from tenth war patrol on August 16, 1944. Normal refit was accomplished by Submarine Base. Executive Officer, LT V. McDonald USN detached.LT (JG) G.L. Romano USN detached.LT A.N. Callaghan USN moved up to position as Executive Officer. Ensigns N. Conaway, and V. Ballantine USN reported aboard.
SBT-1 decoy launcher installed. Ready for sea September 9, 1944.

(B) Narrative

9 September-

1330-Departed Pearl Harbor for patrol area Fish Pond via Saipan.

1628-Trim Dive.

1655-Surfaced.

10-18 September-

En route Saipan.

19 September-

1600-Dock at Saipan, refuel.

24 September-

0000-Arrived in patrol area Fish Pond off Leyte Gulf/Surigao Strait, P.I.

30 September-Arrived in patrol area Briar Patch off San Bernadino Strait, P.I.

3 October-

0000-Set course for new patrol area in Luzon Strait(Convoy College)

5 October

0500-Entered Area Convoy College

9 October-

0202-Received ULTRA regarding German U-Boat en route from Tokyo-Singapore.

10-12 October- Attempted to make contact with reported U boat.

13 October-

1750-SJ contacts bearing 006 14 NM. 21 0 N 119 10 E PPI shows large convoy.

1755-General Quarters

1803-Smoke sighted on horizon 340-000 degrees.

1804-Submerged for attack.

1830-Infiltrated forward screen of convoy. Convoy is five large columns.

1855- Prepared to fire stern tubes at large troopship in center column when convoy zigged, ruining the shot.

1858-ATTACK NO. 1 Large AK crossed 1000 yards in front of Drum. Fired four MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:900 AOB: 70 Torpedo Depth: 10 feet POA: MOT

All three torpedoes hit astern of midships area, believe estimated speed was slightly off. Vessel quickly slowed and caught fire.

1900-HAKUSIKA MARU 8365 tons sunk 21 04 N 119 06 E

1902-Escorts closing fast multiple directions. Ordered Drum to 300 feet, silent running, rigged for depth charge.

1905-As Drum passed 270 feet heard loud buzzing possibly of low flying aircraft, followed by four large explosions which shook Drum, no damage reported. Believe this was previously undetected convoy air support as no escorts were in a firing position at this time.

1910-Escort pinging. SBT decoy deployed.

1911- Escort overhead. SBT decoy deployed. Multiple large explosions astern of Drum.

1914-Same buzzing and Distant explosions. Believe from low flying aircraft aircraft.

1926-Multiple depth charge explosions, distant. Believe escorts attacking decoy.

1930-Pinging.

1945-Explosions overhead. Believe from aircraft as no escorts near by. Possible spotted by low flying aircraft.

1949-More explosions above. Likely from aircraft.

2100-Secured General Quarters.

2355-Surfaced for end around.

14 October-

0216-Regained SJ contact with convoy bearing 003 15 NM. 20 33 N 118 59 E

0345-General Quarters-Surface Torpedo.

0419-ATTACK NO. 2 Fired six MK 23 torpedoes on surface at two targets. Range: 3800/3200 AOB: 72/86 Torpedo depth 10 feet POA:MOT

0421-Three torpedoes impacted first target. Large explosions and fires, target broken in half. Escort at 1800 yards spotted. Drum under heavy fire during turn away. Shell splashes close, Drum submerged under heavy fire. KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk 20 01 N 118 50 E.

0423-Rigged for silent running and depth charge. Thermal layer at 200 feet. SBT decoy deployed at 160 feet.

0425-Depth charge explosions, close.

0645-Periscope depth. SJ SD sweep all clear.

0700-Surfaced. Secured General Quarters.

0714-SD contact 6 NM steady. Night flyer patrolling area of attack.

1108-SD contact 13 NM closing. Submerged to avoid.

2200-Surfaced

15 October-

Storms in area.

16 October-

1345- Two SD contacts closing fast 9 NM. Submerged. 19 50 N 118 18 E

1348-Multiple large explosions above Drum.

2200-Surfaced

17 October-

1908-SD Contact 6 NM closing fast.20 45 N 118 52 E.Visually Identified "BETTY" bomber bearing 212 degrees, altitude (estimated) 1500 feet range 9000 yards (estimated). Drum submerged.

1909-Passing depth of 125 feet, a series of explosions rocked the boat, minor damage reported(see damage section)

18 October-

1620-SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged to avoid

1622-Drum at 165 feet, four large explosions above, depth charged/bombed by aircraft. No damage.

1625-380 feet. Waters are calm and clear. No further explosions.

20 October-

0900-Submerged.

1400-SJ contact bearing 032 14 NM.

1424-Smoke on horizon bearing 001.

1425-General Quarters

1444-Target appears to be lone AK. course 090 7 knots.

1451-Vessel is possible ASW decoy. Distant prop sounds heard bearing 090 and 270. Sweep with SD antenna revealed aircraft contact at 10 NM closing fast. Drum went to 125 feet.

1508-Periscope depth. Turned for attack with stern tubes.

1520-Target identified as SANYO MARU 4252 tons.

1524- Target course 090 7 knots.

1529 - ATTACK NO. 3 Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 7,8,9. Range:1460 yards AOB: 75 Torpedo Depth:10 POA:MOT

1531- All torpedoes hit as aimed large fires amidships and stern.

1533-Crew seen abandoning in rafts. Ship appears to be settling rapidly on even keel.

1535-Vessel took down angle by stern. SANYO MARU 4252 tons sunk 21 23 N 119 33 E.

1542-Depth 200 feet. Secure General Quarters. Reload stern tubes.

1600-Fast screws heard in area of sinking astern estimated range five nautical miles.

1350-SJ contacts bearing 355 14 NM. 21 16 N 118 53 E

1355-Rapid bearing change and disposition of contacts on PPI suggest high speed vessels, possibly task force.

1401- Masts of warships spotted 082 degrees 7 NM.

1402-Submerged for attack. Contact Report sent. Task Force sighted. DD (lead) two CA, one CL (body) one DD (trailing) 21 17 N 118 50 E Course 180 25.5 knots.

1417- 1,600 yards off track for stern tube attack. DD leading CA and CL.

1422-ATTACK NO 4. Fired four MK 18 torpedoes at Myoko Class CA. Range: 1650 yds. AOB:70 Torpedo depth:10 ft POA:MOT, MOT, Fore turret, Aft turret

1426-All torpedoes missed. Sound check revealed missed astern. Possible TF increased speed.

1430-Depth: 350 ft. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent running.

1440-No pinging or apparent course change. Task Force appears unaware of attack.

1600-Secured General Quarters

2100-Surfaced.

23 October-

1740-Submerged to avoid SD contact closing from ten nautical miles, fast. 20 20 N 118 25 E.

2032-Sound contact, distant props 032 degrees.

2037-Surfaced. Course 195 towards sound contacts.

2044-SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged to avoid.

2052-Radar depth. SD contact 8 NM, range opening. SJ contacts bearing 348 degrees 14 NM.

2058-Surfaced.

2103-PPI shows convoy of four ships in single column with three escorts. Lead, port and starboard flank.

2112-Convoy zigged to west. Estimated heading now 005.

2115-General Quarters.

2117-SD contact 10 NM closing.

2118-Submerged for attack.

2124- Depth 350 feet. Closing estimated firing position at 8 knots.

2137 periscope depth.

2138-Smoke sighted bearing 000 estimated range 5 NM.

2216- Convoy is one large and three mid sized AK in single column. Three escorts. Lead escort is Mikura (Type B) class escort.

2239 - ATTACK NO. 5- Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:1300 AOB: 90 Torpedo Depth: 10 ft POA : MOT, Fore Mast, Aft Mast

2240-All torpedoes impacted as aimed. Ship left on fire bow to stern, masts collapsed, ship began to settle.

2241- Escorts closing both beams, pinging. Drum to 300 feet. Rigged for Depth Charge and silent running.

2242-Passed thermal layer at 200 feet.

2243-KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk 20 08 N 118 24 E.

2245- Escort overhead. Many DC splashes. SBT-1 decoy deployed

2246- Drum at 350 feet. Many DC explosions. Boat shaken. Damage report(see damage section) SBT- 1 decoy deployed

2250-Many DC explosions, escorts focusing on decoys astern of Drum. Boat is at depth of 375 feet.

2304-Pinging.

2315-Depth charge explosions above.

2345-Escorts appear to have lost contact with Drun.

24 October-

0034-Periscope depth. All clear.

0035-Radar depth. SJ contact 8800 yards astern. Likely "sleeper" escort. Convoy is 10 NM bearing 155.

0037-Surfaced.

0039-Escort underway turned towards Drum. Possibly heard blowing tanks.

0045-Escort turned back. Course 340 for end around.

0053-Secured General Quarters. Final reserve torpedo (MK 23) ordered loaded into tube 3. Three MK 14 torpedoes remain forward (Tubes 4,5,6) with one MK 18 in stern tube (Tube 7)

0143- General Quarters. Surface torpedo attack.

0155-Closing from port flank of convoy.

0211-ATTACK NO 6. Fired one MK 23 and One MK 14 torpedo from tubes 3 and 4. Range: 1900 yards AOB 80 Torpedo Depth: 6 feet POA MOT.

Both torpedoes impacted forward of bridge area Large hole visible at waterline, fire but vessel is underway but lagging behind. Moving in to finish off with remaining stern torpedo.

0234-ATTACK NO. 6(a) Fired one MK 18 torpedo from stern tube (7) Range:1800 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth: 6 feet POT MOT.

Drum under fire from nearby merchants and escorts.

0240- MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons sunk 20 16 N 118 35 E

0244-Secure General Quarters. Start end around.

0415-SJ contact bearing 352 12 NM. APR-1 detected radar emissions. Believe this is ASW patrol searching area for Drum. Evaded

0447-SD contact 8 NM closing fast. Submerged.

0540-SJ contact regained with convoy. Bearing 004 15 NM. 20 28 N 118 40 E

0604-General Quarters.

0612-Due to moonlight, and improved visibility, submerged for attack.

0629-Pinging. Drum detected by lead escort. Escort closing fast. Drum to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge silent running.

0630-SBT-1 decoy deployed . Thermal layer 185 feet.

0632-Many DC splashes. Explosions. Damage reported(See damage section)

0633-SBT-1 decoy deployed.

0634-Many DC explosions astern at decoy site.

0637-Escort pinging.

0650-Escort above.

0651-DC explosions. Close. No damage reported.

0654-Pinging.

0658-DC explosion

0707-DC explosions, close.

0900-Lost contact with enemy.

1018-Surfaced.Secured General Quarters.

1200-Position: 20 25 N 118 20 E. Torpedoes Remaining: Mark 14 x 2.

31 October-

0930-Spotted life raft with survivors

0945-Rescued six survivors in raft at 19 57 N 118 50 E. Survivors were British/Australian POW's aboard the HAKUSIKA MARU sunk by Drum on 13 October.

2 November-

0000-Departed patrol area, set course for Majuro Atoll.

9 November-

1600-Arrived Majuro Atoll. Terminated patrol.

(C) In the Suriago and San Bernadino Strait areas, the weather was generally overcast with a gentle to moderate breeze. Condition 2 to 3 sea was average, with visibility only fair.

In the Luzon Strait area of the South China Sea, the predominant characteristic of the weather was the consistent moderate to fresh breeze from the northeast, with a condition 3 to 4 sea. The average cloud cover was from 0.2 to 0.6. Visibility was good.

In the two days spent in the northwest section of the area, in the lee of Formosa, the wind dropped to a gentle breeze and the sea to condition 2.

(D) Tidal Information

Tides and sea states were generally calm, overall for most of the patrol.

(E) Navigational Aids

Suluan Light on Suluan Island at the entrance to Suriago Strait was not lighted. This was the only lighthouse sighted.

Balintang Channel was easily traversed using the SJ radar; Balintang, Batan, and Babuyan Islands all offering good targets.

(F) Attack Data

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 11

Time: 1900 Date: 13 October 1944 Location: Lat. .21 04 N Lon. 119 06 E

Description:

Large Northbound convoy in five columns roughly 1000 yards between ships and 2000 yards between columns. Infiltrated forward screen for submerged attack. Initial set up was on large troopship in port center column. Convoy made a zig which ruined the setup. However, a large AK crossed just 1000 yards in front of Drum presenting ideal setup for torpedo attack.

Three MK 23 torpedoes were fired from tubes 1,2, and 3. Range: 900 yards AOB: 70 Torpedo Depth: 10 feet POA: MOT

Ships Sunk:

HAKUSIKA MARU 8365 tons. 21 04 N 119 06 E

None.

Ships Damaged or Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:
Visual confirmation of torpedo impacts, listing of vessel, and sound confirmed sinking. Upon surfacing large debris field visible.

None.

Target Draft 27 feet, Course 345°, Speed 7 knots, Range 3200 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 350 degrees, Depth: 64 feet.

Type Attack

Submerged daytime periscope attack. Convoy tracked using SJ radar until submerging for attack. Torpedoes fired using TDC, solved target course and speed, radar ranges and periscope bearings.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 11

Time: 0419 Date: 14 October 1944 Lat. 20 01 N Lon. 118 50 E.

Description:

After end around, follow up night surface attack on large convoy previously attacked (Attack No. 1). Fired six MK 23 torpedoes at two targets. Range:2300/2500 yards AOB:70/86. After torpedo six left tube began turn away. Drum came under heavy gunfire after torpedo impact. Due to close range of an escort and heavy volume of fire, submerged to avoid.

Ships Sunk:

KIGAN MARU 7390 tons 20 01 N 118 50 E

Ships Probably Sunk:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Observed three torpedo impacts on target. Large fires visible and ship sinking.

Target Draft 25 feet, Course 060°, Speed 8 knots, Range 2300 yards.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 160°, Depth: Surfaced

Type Attack

Night surface torpedo attack. Fired six MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 1-6.Three missed first target, three impacted the second target.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3 Patrol No. 11

Time: 1529 Date: 20 October 1944 Lat. 21 23 N Long. 119 33 E

Description:

Lone merchant contact. As this is unusual for enemy vessels to be sailing open waters without escort, along with SD Contacts and fast prop sounds in distance, believed this to be possible ASW decoy as noted in previous patrol reports of other boats.

Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from stern tubes 7,8,9. Range:1460 yards AOB: 75 Torpedo Depth:10 POA:MOT

Ships Sunk:

SANYO MARU 4252 tons sunk

Ships Sunk or Probably Sunk:
None

Damage Determined By:

Observed all three torpedoes impact target. Target caught fire and settled with a port list. Observed target sink through periscope at 21 23 N 119 33 E.

Target Draft 25 feet, Course 240°, Speed 7 knots, Range 1460 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 005°, Depth: 64 feet

Type Attack

Submerged daytime periscope attack with MK 18 electric torpedoes in stern tubes.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 4 Patrol No. 11

Time: 1422 Date: 20 October 1944 ask Force sighted. 21 17 N 118 50 E

Description:

Shortly after Attack No 3, sound picked up heavy fast screws. Upon investigation in bearing of contact, SJ made contact. Contact developed into a task force with two CA, one CL, two DD in single column with 1000 yard spacing. Estimated course/speed 180 degrees 25.5 knots.

Fired four MK 18 torpedoes at Myoko Class CA. Range: 1650 yds. AOB:70 Torpedo depth:10 feet POA:MOT, MOT, Fore turret, Aft turret

Ships Sunk:

None

Ships Sunk or Probably Sunk:
None

Damage Determined By:

None

Target Draft 20 feet, Course 180, Speed 25.5 knots, Range 1650 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 090°, Depth: 64 feet

Type Attack

Submerged daytime periscope attack with four MK 18 electric torpedoes from stern tubes.

Torpedoes missed, possibly due to task force increasing speed after torpedoes were fired. Targets were not alerted thanks to lack of visible wake from MK 18 torpedoes.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 5 Patrol No. 11

Time: 2239 Date: 23 October 1944 Lat. 20 08 N Long. 118 24 E

Description:

Four ship , three escort convoy. Convoy is single column 1200 yards spacing.
At 2239 Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:1300 AOB: 90 Torpedo Depth: 10 ft POA : MOT, Fore Mast, Aft Mast

Ships Sunk:
KIGAN MARU class AK

Ships Damaged:
none

Damage Determined By:
Visually observed torpedoes hit through periscope. Target left on fire bow to stern, masts collapsed, ship began to settle. KIGAN MARU sunk

Target Draft 22 feet, Course 215°, Speed 7.5 knots, Range 2100 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 355° - 348°, Depth 62 feet

Type Attack

Submerged periscope attack.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack(s) No. 6 and 6(a) Patrol No. 11

Time: 0211 and 0234(A) Date: 24 October 1944. Lat. 20 16 N Long. 118 35 E

Description:

Same convoy as Attack No. 5. Surfaced after dark and escaping depth charges for end around. A "sleeper" at 5600 yards heard Drum surfacing and headed for Drum but did not visually identify the boat and soon gave up pursuit. Turn to NNE for end around. Gained position on (surprisingly) unguard port flank of the convoy which was now on base course of 030 at 6 knots. The remaining ships were constant helming making tracking somewhat difficult.

By 0211 was in position and fired one MK 23 and One MK 14 torpedo from tubes 3 and 4. Range: 1900 yards AOB 80 Torpedo Depth: 6 feet POA MOT. Both torpedoes impacted

6(a) Fired one MK 18 torpedo from stern tube (7) Range:1800 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth: 6 feet POT MOT.

Ships Sunk:

#6(a): MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons

Ships damaged:

#6 MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons

Damage Determined By:

#6 Observed both torpedoes impact target, leaving a large visible hole at waterline just forward of midships area. Large fires burned for over 30 minutes. However, target did not lose way and continued with rest of convoy. Drum had to open range due to escort and sporadic gunfire. Began closing to setup for a shot to finish off the target.

#6(a) Observed torpedo impact. Large explosion, likely the boilers. Ship settled and quickly sunk.

6: Target Draft 22 feet, Course 030°, Speed 6 knots, Range 1900 yds.
6(a): Target Draft 18 feet, Course 355°, Speed 6 knots, Range 1800 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 095° - 348°, Depth :Surface

Type Attack:

Both attacks 6 and 6 (A) were surface attacks. The night was quite dark and seemed to conceal Drum for the most part. The APR-1 did not detect any radar emissions .

(G) Mines

While in Area Brian Patch, attempted to approach the entrances to Leyte Gulf for possible patrol in Surigao Strait. However, large minefields observe d 10 52 N 125 42 E. Mines ran roughly North to South in the navigable areas of the channel. A similar field was spotted at 10 33 N 125 42 E. This effectively sealed off known entrances to the gulf from the Philippine Sea. While there are likely unmined areas used by local traffic, they are unknown. Drum was unable to determine these passages and remain safe from shore batteries and observation posts.

(H) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasion Tactics

Enemy ASW air patrols in areas Briar Patch and Fish Pond were steady, forcing a daily dive, sometimes more. No surface patrols were encountered. Radar emissions were registered on the APR-1 from each SD contact.

Enemy ASW air activity in the Convoy College area is best described as intense with both day and night time air patrols. These aircraft were all apparently radar equipped.

The air cover for the convoy attacked on 13 October (Attack No.1) was particularly effective and continued to detect Drum even once submerged to deep depth. Aircraft continued flying so low could be heard overhead and bombed Drum while submerged at 270 and 380 foot depth. This aircraft apparently directed escorts onto Drum's location. This was an impressive piece of air-sea ASW coordination.

Surface patrols were encountered on SJ radar but none visually.

Enemy convoys were heavily escorted with a minimum of three but usually four or five escorts covering all sectors of the convoy. Task Force was escorted by two fleet type destroyers believed to be Kagero Class. Their high speed likely explains why Drum was not detected nor her inbound torpedoes and lack of ASW response. The high speed itself and the change in speed without a zig proved to save the task force from disaster.

Believe this task force was one later reported to be involved in the night surface engagement with our fleet in the Surigao Strait 25 October.

Evasion tactics were fairly standard with running silent and at depth of 300-400 feet typically. The SBT-1 decoy proved invaluable during this patrol was it confused enemy sonar and permitted Drum to escape most of the depth charge barrages.

(I) Major Defects and Damage

17 October-Aerial Bombing

Several close aerial bombs/depth charges from aircraft exploded as Drum passed 125 feet. Minor damage incurred: Damage to aft batteries. Minor leaks in water and air lines throughout boat. Repaired at sea.

23 October- Depth charge attack # 2

At 2246 hours, while at a depth of 350 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge, several large depth charge explosions occurred near the Drum on starboard side and above and just below stern. . Trim and hydraulic pumps took moderate damage, forward and aft batteries, electric motors, port prop shaft. Water and air lines leaking. Stern torpedo tubes damaged.

All damage repaired at sea within 48 hours.

24 October- Depth Charge Attack #3

0632 multiple depth charge explosions caused flooding in forward engine room with serious damage to No 1 and 3 electric engines. Aft batteries, rudder and stern plane transmissions damaged. Air and water line leaks throughout boat. No 1 and No 2 periscopes damaged. All damage repaired within 48 hours except for No.1 and No 3 electric motors. Complete repairs to the motors unable to be completed at sea. Submerged speed limited to 7.8 knots for remainder of patrol.

(J) Radio

Radio performance during this patrol was optimal.

(K) Radar

SJ radar performed well, typically detecting targets at 14-15 nautical miles.

SD Radar performance was overall excellent typically detecting targets at 11 nautical miles. However, it was observed against planes flying below 1000 feet the detection range dropped 6-7 nautical miles. Without SD radar, surfaced patrol would be close to impossible due to heavy air activity in Luzon Straits.

(L) Sound Gear and Conditions

Sound conditions were average to excellent in patrol areas. The detection of the task force was made at extreme range.

(M) Thermal layers

Thermal layers were common in the waters of Luzon Straits and detected at depths varying from 150-280 feet.

(N) Health and Habitability

Health and morale of the crew was excellent with habitability remaining excellent on this sixty day war patrol.

(O) Personnel

Personnel performance on this patrol was excellent, as demonstrated by the six confirmed sinkings.

(Q) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Pearl to Area 5611 Miles 60377 Gallons
In Area 4868 Miles 34165 Gallons
Area to Majuro 4346 Miles 56561 Gallons
Total 14325 Miles 151103 Gallons

(R) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 17
Days in Area 30
Days Enroute to Base 13
Days Submerged 11
Total 60

(T) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Torpedoes 2
Fuel 8500 gallons
Provisions 10 days
Personnel 10 days

Limiting Factor of This Patrol:

Remaining fuel.

(U) Radio and Radar Countermeasures

APR-1 detected numerous radar emissions from enemy aircraft throughout the patrol. Only once were transmissions detected from enemy surface vessels. It is believed that the surface search radar is still not common for enemy escorts.

(V) Remarks

Rescue of Allied POW's:

On 30 October at 0930, lookouts spotted a life raft at bearing 001 degrees roughly four nautical miles away. Closed raft with caution and by 0945, was along side. The raft contained six Allied POW's(four Australian and two British) who were aboard a ship sunk on 13 October by Drum. The area was searched for others but none were located.

Rescue location:9 57 N 118 50 E

Torpedo performance was excellent on this patrol. While the MK 18 has a clear advantage of lacking a wake, it's limited speed can make shots against high speed targets such as the heavy cruiser missed on 20 October a challenge.

With five ships and an estimated 31,450 tons sunk, this was a excellent patrol, Drum's best to date.

07-25-21, 01:41 AM	#5088
Bubblehead1980 Navy Seal Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Florida USA Posts: 6,922 Downloads: 550 Uploads: 42	USS Drum War Patrol Eleven 9 September-9 November 1944 TMO 2.5 with custom mods. 100 difficulty, cams and map contacts off. USS Drum SS-228 War Patrol Eleven 9 September-9 November 1944 Area(s) Fish Pond, Briar Patch, Convoy College (Luzon Straits) Patrol Chart. (A) Prologue Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H., from tenth war patrol on August 16, 1944. Normal refit was accomplished by Submarine Base. Executive Officer, LT V. McDonald USN detached.LT (JG) G.L. Romano USN detached.LT A.N. Callaghan USN moved up to position as Executive Officer. Ensigns N. Conaway, and V. Ballantine USN reported aboard. SBT-1 decoy launcher installed. Ready for sea September 9, 1944. (B) Narrative 9 September- 1330-Departed Pearl Harbor for patrol area Fish Pond via Saipan. 1628-Trim Dive. 1655-Surfaced. 10-18 September- En route Saipan. 19 September- 1600-Dock at Saipan, refuel. 24 September- 0000-Arrived in patrol area Fish Pond off Leyte Gulf/Surigao Strait, P.I. 30 September-Arrived in patrol area Briar Patch off San Bernadino Strait, P.I. 3 October- 0000-Set course for new patrol area in Luzon Strait(Convoy College) 5 October 0500-Entered Area Convoy College 9 October- 0202-Received ULTRA regarding German U-Boat en route from Tokyo-Singapore. 10-12 October- Attempted to make contact with reported U boat. 13 October- 1750-SJ contacts bearing 006 14 NM. 21 0 N 119 10 E PPI shows large convoy. 1755-General Quarters 1803-Smoke sighted on horizon 340-000 degrees. 1804-Submerged for attack. 1830-Infiltrated forward screen of convoy. Convoy is five large columns. 1855- Prepared to fire stern tubes at large troopship in center column when convoy zigged, ruining the shot. 1858-ATTACK NO. 1 Large AK crossed 1000 yards in front of Drum. Fired four MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:900 AOB: 70 Torpedo Depth: 10 feet POA: MOT All three torpedoes hit astern of midships area, believe estimated speed was slightly off. Vessel quickly slowed and caught fire. 1900-HAKUSIKA MARU 8365 tons sunk 21 04 N 119 06 E 1902-Escorts closing fast multiple directions. Ordered Drum to 300 feet, silent running, rigged for depth charge. 1905-As Drum passed 270 feet heard loud buzzing possibly of low flying aircraft, followed by four large explosions which shook Drum, no damage reported. Believe this was previously undetected convoy air support as no escorts were in a firing position at this time. 1910-Escort pinging. SBT decoy deployed. 1911- Escort overhead. SBT decoy deployed. Multiple large explosions astern of Drum. 1914-Same buzzing and Distant explosions. Believe from low flying aircraft aircraft. 1926-Multiple depth charge explosions, distant. Believe escorts attacking decoy. 1930-Pinging. 1945-Explosions overhead. Believe from aircraft as no escorts near by. Possible spotted by low flying aircraft. 1949-More explosions above. Likely from aircraft. 2100-Secured General Quarters. 2355-Surfaced for end around. 14 October- 0216-Regained SJ contact with convoy bearing 003 15 NM. 20 33 N 118 59 E 0345-General Quarters-Surface Torpedo. 0419-ATTACK NO. 2 Fired six MK 23 torpedoes on surface at two targets. Range: 3800/3200 AOB: 72/86 Torpedo depth 10 feet POA:MOT 0421-Three torpedoes impacted first target. Large explosions and fires, target broken in half. Escort at 1800 yards spotted. Drum under heavy fire during turn away. Shell splashes close, Drum submerged under heavy fire. KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk 20 01 N 118 50 E. 0423-Rigged for silent running and depth charge. Thermal layer at 200 feet. SBT decoy deployed at 160 feet. 0425-Depth charge explosions, close. 0645-Periscope depth. SJ SD sweep all clear. 0700-Surfaced. Secured General Quarters. 0714-SD contact 6 NM steady. Night flyer patrolling area of attack. 1108-SD contact 13 NM closing. Submerged to avoid. 2200-Surfaced 15 October- Storms in area. 16 October- 1345- Two SD contacts closing fast 9 NM. Submerged. 19 50 N 118 18 E 1348-Multiple large explosions above Drum. 2200-Surfaced 17 October- 1908-SD Contact 6 NM closing fast.20 45 N 118 52 E.Visually Identified "BETTY" bomber bearing 212 degrees, altitude (estimated) 1500 feet range 9000 yards (estimated). Drum submerged. 1909-Passing depth of 125 feet, a series of explosions rocked the boat, minor damage reported(see damage section) 18 October- 1620-SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged to avoid 1622-Drum at 165 feet, four large explosions above, depth charged/bombed by aircraft. No damage. 1625-380 feet. Waters are calm and clear. No further explosions. 20 October- 0900-Submerged. 1400-SJ contact bearing 032 14 NM. 1424-Smoke on horizon bearing 001. 1425-General Quarters 1444-Target appears to be lone AK. course 090 7 knots. 1451-Vessel is possible ASW decoy. Distant prop sounds heard bearing 090 and 270. Sweep with SD antenna revealed aircraft contact at 10 NM closing fast. Drum went to 125 feet. 1508-Periscope depth. Turned for attack with stern tubes. 1520-Target identified as SANYO MARU 4252 tons. 1524- Target course 090 7 knots. 1529 - ATTACK NO. 3 Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from tubes 7,8,9. Range:1460 yards AOB: 75 Torpedo Depth:10 POA:MOT 1531- All torpedoes hit as aimed large fires amidships and stern. 1533-Crew seen abandoning in rafts. Ship appears to be settling rapidly on even keel. 1535-Vessel took down angle by stern. SANYO MARU 4252 tons sunk 21 23 N 119 33 E. 1542-Depth 200 feet. Secure General Quarters. Reload stern tubes. 1600-Fast screws heard in area of sinking astern estimated range five nautical miles. 1350-SJ contacts bearing 355 14 NM. 21 16 N 118 53 E 1355-Rapid bearing change and disposition of contacts on PPI suggest high speed vessels, possibly task force. 1401- Masts of warships spotted 082 degrees 7 NM. 1402-Submerged for attack. Contact Report sent. Task Force sighted. DD (lead) two CA, one CL (body) one DD (trailing) 21 17 N 118 50 E Course 180 25.5 knots. 1417- 1,600 yards off track for stern tube attack. DD leading CA and CL. 1422-ATTACK NO 4. Fired four MK 18 torpedoes at Myoko Class CA. Range: 1650 yds. AOB:70 Torpedo depth:10 ft POA:MOT, MOT, Fore turret, Aft turret 1426-All torpedoes missed. Sound check revealed missed astern. Possible TF increased speed. 1430-Depth: 350 ft. Rigged for Depth Charge and Silent running. 1440-No pinging or apparent course change. Task Force appears unaware of attack. 1600-Secured General Quarters 2100-Surfaced. 23 October- 1740-Submerged to avoid SD contact closing from ten nautical miles, fast. 20 20 N 118 25 E. 2032-Sound contact, distant props 032 degrees. 2037-Surfaced. Course 195 towards sound contacts. 2044-SD contact 10 NM closing. Submerged to avoid. 2052-Radar depth. SD contact 8 NM, range opening. SJ contacts bearing 348 degrees 14 NM. 2058-Surfaced. 2103-PPI shows convoy of four ships in single column with three escorts. Lead, port and starboard flank. 2112-Convoy zigged to west. Estimated heading now 005. 2115-General Quarters. 2117-SD contact 10 NM closing. 2118-Submerged for attack. 2124- Depth 350 feet. Closing estimated firing position at 8 knots. 2137 periscope depth. 2138-Smoke sighted bearing 000 estimated range 5 NM. 2216- Convoy is one large and three mid sized AK in single column. Three escorts. Lead escort is Mikura (Type B) class escort. 2239 - ATTACK NO. 5- Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:1300 AOB: 90 Torpedo Depth: 10 ft POA : MOT, Fore Mast, Aft Mast 2240-All torpedoes impacted as aimed. Ship left on fire bow to stern, masts collapsed, ship began to settle. 2241- Escorts closing both beams, pinging. Drum to 300 feet. Rigged for Depth Charge and silent running. 2242-Passed thermal layer at 200 feet. 2243-KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk 20 08 N 118 24 E. 2245- Escort overhead. Many DC splashes. SBT-1 decoy deployed 2246- Drum at 350 feet. Many DC explosions. Boat shaken. Damage report(see damage section) SBT- 1 decoy deployed 2250-Many DC explosions, escorts focusing on decoys astern of Drum. Boat is at depth of 375 feet. 2304-Pinging. 2315-Depth charge explosions above. 2345-Escorts appear to have lost contact with Drun. 24 October- 0034-Periscope depth. All clear. 0035-Radar depth. SJ contact 8800 yards astern. Likely "sleeper" escort. Convoy is 10 NM bearing 155. 0037-Surfaced. 0039-Escort underway turned towards Drum. Possibly heard blowing tanks. 0045-Escort turned back. Course 340 for end around. 0053-Secured General Quarters. Final reserve torpedo (MK 23) ordered loaded into tube 3. Three MK 14 torpedoes remain forward (Tubes 4,5,6) with one MK 18 in stern tube (Tube 7) 0143- General Quarters. Surface torpedo attack. 0155-Closing from port flank of convoy. 0211-ATTACK NO 6. Fired one MK 23 and One MK 14 torpedo from tubes 3 and 4. Range: 1900 yards AOB 80 Torpedo Depth: 6 feet POA MOT. Both torpedoes impacted forward of bridge area Large hole visible at waterline, fire but vessel is underway but lagging behind. Moving in to finish off with remaining stern torpedo. 0234-ATTACK NO. 6(a) Fired one MK 18 torpedo from stern tube (7) Range:1800 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth: 6 feet POT MOT. Drum under fire from nearby merchants and escorts. 0240- MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons sunk 20 16 N 118 35 E 0244-Secure General Quarters. Start end around. 0415-SJ contact bearing 352 12 NM. APR-1 detected radar emissions. Believe this is ASW patrol searching area for Drum. Evaded 0447-SD contact 8 NM closing fast. Submerged. 0540-SJ contact regained with convoy. Bearing 004 15 NM. 20 28 N 118 40 E 0604-General Quarters. 0612-Due to moonlight, and improved visibility, submerged for attack. 0629-Pinging. Drum detected by lead escort. Escort closing fast. Drum to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge silent running. 0630-SBT-1 decoy deployed . Thermal layer 185 feet. 0632-Many DC splashes. Explosions. Damage reported(See damage section) 0633-SBT-1 decoy deployed. 0634-Many DC explosions astern at decoy site. 0637-Escort pinging. 0650-Escort above. 0651-DC explosions. Close. No damage reported. 0654-Pinging. 0658-DC explosion 0707-DC explosions, close. 0900-Lost contact with enemy. 1018-Surfaced.Secured General Quarters. 1200-Position: 20 25 N 118 20 E. Torpedoes Remaining: Mark 14 x 2. 31 October- 0930-Spotted life raft with survivors 0945-Rescued six survivors in raft at 19 57 N 118 50 E. Survivors were British/Australian POW's aboard the HAKUSIKA MARU sunk by Drum on 13 October. 2 November- 0000-Departed patrol area, set course for Majuro Atoll. 9 November- 1600-Arrived Majuro Atoll. Terminated patrol. (C) In the Suriago and San Bernadino Strait areas, the weather was generally overcast with a gentle to moderate breeze. Condition 2 to 3 sea was average, with visibility only fair. In the Luzon Strait area of the South China Sea, the predominant characteristic of the weather was the consistent moderate to fresh breeze from the northeast, with a condition 3 to 4 sea. The average cloud cover was from 0.2 to 0.6. Visibility was good. In the two days spent in the northwest section of the area, in the lee of Formosa, the wind dropped to a gentle breeze and the sea to condition 2. (D) Tidal Information Tides and sea states were generally calm, overall for most of the patrol. (E) Navigational Aids Suluan Light on Suluan Island at the entrance to Suriago Strait was not lighted. This was the only lighthouse sighted. Balintang Channel was easily traversed using the SJ radar; Balintang, Batan, and Babuyan Islands all offering good targets. (F) Attack Data U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 11 Time: 1900 Date: 13 October 1944 Location: Lat. .21 04 N Lon. 119 06 E Description: Large Northbound convoy in five columns roughly 1000 yards between ships and 2000 yards between columns. Infiltrated forward screen for submerged attack. Initial set up was on large troopship in port center column. Convoy made a zig which ruined the setup. However, a large AK crossed just 1000 yards in front of Drum presenting ideal setup for torpedo attack. Three MK 23 torpedoes were fired from tubes 1,2, and 3. Range: 900 yards AOB: 70 Torpedo Depth: 10 feet POA: MOT Ships Sunk: HAKUSIKA MARU 8365 tons. 21 04 N 119 06 E None. Ships Damaged or Probably Sunk: None. Damage Determined By: Visual confirmation of torpedo impacts, listing of vessel, and sound confirmed sinking. Upon surfacing large debris field visible. None. Target Draft 27 feet, Course 345°, Speed 7 knots, Range 3200 yds. Own Ship Data: Speed 2 knots, Course 350 degrees, Depth: 64 feet. Type Attack Submerged daytime periscope attack. Convoy tracked using SJ radar until submerging for attack. Torpedoes fired using TDC, solved target course and speed, radar ranges and periscope bearings. U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 11 Time: 0419 Date: 14 October 1944 Lat. 20 01 N Lon. 118 50 E. Description: After end around, follow up night surface attack on large convoy previously attacked (Attack No. 1). Fired six MK 23 torpedoes at two targets. Range:2300/2500 yards AOB:70/86. After torpedo six left tube began turn away. Drum came under heavy gunfire after torpedo impact. Due to close range of an escort and heavy volume of fire, submerged to avoid. Ships Sunk: KIGAN MARU 7390 tons 20 01 N 118 50 E Ships Probably Sunk: None. Damage Determined By: Observed three torpedo impacts on target. Large fires visible and ship sinking. Target Draft 25 feet, Course 060°, Speed 8 knots, Range 2300 yards. Own Ship Data: Speed 2 knots, Course 160°, Depth: Surfaced Type Attack Night surface torpedo attack. Fired six MK 23 torpedoes from tubes 1-6.Three missed first target, three impacted the second target. U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3 Patrol No. 11 Time: 1529 Date: 20 October 1944 Lat. 21 23 N Long. 119 33 E Description: Lone merchant contact. As this is unusual for enemy vessels to be sailing open waters without escort, along with SD Contacts and fast prop sounds in distance, believed this to be possible ASW decoy as noted in previous patrol reports of other boats. Fired three MK 18 torpedoes from stern tubes 7,8,9. Range:1460 yards AOB: 75 Torpedo Depth:10 POA:MOT Ships Sunk: SANYO MARU 4252 tons sunk Ships Sunk or Probably Sunk: None Damage Determined By: Observed all three torpedoes impact target. Target caught fire and settled with a port list. Observed target sink through periscope at 21 23 N 119 33 E. Target Draft 25 feet, Course 240°, Speed 7 knots, Range 1460 yds. Own Ship Data: Speed 2 knots, Course 005°, Depth: 64 feet Type Attack Submerged daytime periscope attack with MK 18 electric torpedoes in stern tubes. U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 4 Patrol No. 11 Time: 1422 Date: 20 October 1944 ask Force sighted. 21 17 N 118 50 E Description: Shortly after Attack No 3, sound picked up heavy fast screws. Upon investigation in bearing of contact, SJ made contact. Contact developed into a task force with two CA, one CL, two DD in single column with 1000 yard spacing. Estimated course/speed 180 degrees 25.5 knots. Fired four MK 18 torpedoes at Myoko Class CA. Range: 1650 yds. AOB:70 Torpedo depth:10 feet POA:MOT, MOT, Fore turret, Aft turret Ships Sunk: None Ships Sunk or Probably Sunk: None Damage Determined By: None Target Draft 20 feet, Course 180, Speed 25.5 knots, Range 1650 yds. Own Ship Data: Speed 2 knots, Course 090°, Depth: 64 feet Type Attack Submerged daytime periscope attack with four MK 18 electric torpedoes from stern tubes. Torpedoes missed, possibly due to task force increasing speed after torpedoes were fired. Targets were not alerted thanks to lack of visible wake from MK 18 torpedoes. U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 5 Patrol No. 11 Time: 2239 Date: 23 October 1944 Lat. 20 08 N Long. 118 24 E Description: Four ship , three escort convoy. Convoy is single column 1200 yards spacing. At 2239 Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range:1300 AOB: 90 Torpedo Depth: 10 ft POA : MOT, Fore Mast, Aft Mast Ships Sunk: KIGAN MARU class AK Ships Damaged: none Damage Determined By: Visually observed torpedoes hit through periscope. Target left on fire bow to stern, masts collapsed, ship began to settle. KIGAN MARU sunk Target Draft 22 feet, Course 215°, Speed 7.5 knots, Range 2100 yds. Own Ship Data: Speed 2 knots, Course 355° - 348°, Depth 62 feet Type Attack Submerged periscope attack. U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack(s) No. 6 and 6(a) Patrol No. 11 Time: 0211 and 0234(A) Date: 24 October 1944. Lat. 20 16 N Long. 118 35 E Description: Same convoy as Attack No. 5. Surfaced after dark and escaping depth charges for end around. A "sleeper" at 5600 yards heard Drum surfacing and headed for Drum but did not visually identify the boat and soon gave up pursuit. Turn to NNE for end around. Gained position on (surprisingly) unguard port flank of the convoy which was now on base course of 030 at 6 knots. The remaining ships were constant helming making tracking somewhat difficult. By 0211 was in position and fired one MK 23 and One MK 14 torpedo from tubes 3 and 4. Range: 1900 yards AOB 80 Torpedo Depth: 6 feet POA MOT. Both torpedoes impacted 6(a) Fired one MK 18 torpedo from stern tube (7) Range:1800 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth: 6 feet POT MOT. Ships Sunk: #6(a): MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons Ships damaged: #6 MOMOYAMA MARU 4037 tons Damage Determined By: #6 Observed both torpedoes impact target, leaving a large visible hole at waterline just forward of midships area. Large fires burned for over 30 minutes. However, target did not lose way and continued with rest of convoy. Drum had to open range due to escort and sporadic gunfire. Began closing to setup for a shot to finish off the target. #6(a) Observed torpedo impact. Large explosion, likely the boilers. Ship settled and quickly sunk. 6: Target Draft 22 feet, Course 030°, Speed 6 knots, Range 1900 yds. 6(a): Target Draft 18 feet, Course 355°, Speed 6 knots, Range 1800 yds. Own Ship Data: Speed 2 knots, Course 095° - 348°, Depth :Surface Type Attack: Both attacks 6 and 6 (A) were surface attacks. The night was quite dark and seemed to conceal Drum for the most part. The APR-1 did not detect any radar emissions . (G) Mines While in Area Brian Patch, attempted to approach the entrances to Leyte Gulf for possible patrol in Surigao Strait. However, large minefields observe d 10 52 N 125 42 E. Mines ran roughly North to South in the navigable areas of the channel. A similar field was spotted at 10 33 N 125 42 E. This effectively sealed off known entrances to the gulf from the Philippine Sea. While there are likely unmined areas used by local traffic, they are unknown. Drum was unable to determine these passages and remain safe from shore batteries and observation posts. (H) Anti-Submarine Measures and Evasion Tactics Enemy ASW air patrols in areas Briar Patch and Fish Pond were steady, forcing a daily dive, sometimes more. No surface patrols were encountered. Radar emissions were registered on the APR-1 from each SD contact. Enemy ASW air activity in the Convoy College area is best described as intense with both day and night time air patrols. These aircraft were all apparently radar equipped. The air cover for the convoy attacked on 13 October (Attack No.1) was particularly effective and continued to detect Drum even once submerged to deep depth. Aircraft continued flying so low could be heard overhead and bombed Drum while submerged at 270 and 380 foot depth. This aircraft apparently directed escorts onto Drum's location. This was an impressive piece of air-sea ASW coordination. Surface patrols were encountered on SJ radar but none visually. Enemy convoys were heavily escorted with a minimum of three but usually four or five escorts covering all sectors of the convoy. Task Force was escorted by two fleet type destroyers believed to be Kagero Class. Their high speed likely explains why Drum was not detected nor her inbound torpedoes and lack of ASW response. The high speed itself and the change in speed without a zig proved to save the task force from disaster. Believe this task force was one later reported to be involved in the night surface engagement with our fleet in the Surigao Strait 25 October. Evasion tactics were fairly standard with running silent and at depth of 300-400 feet typically. The SBT-1 decoy proved invaluable during this patrol was it confused enemy sonar and permitted Drum to escape most of the depth charge barrages. (I) Major Defects and Damage 17 October-Aerial Bombing Several close aerial bombs/depth charges from aircraft exploded as Drum passed 125 feet. Minor damage incurred: Damage to aft batteries. Minor leaks in water and air lines throughout boat. Repaired at sea. 23 October- Depth charge attack # 2 At 2246 hours, while at a depth of 350 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge, several large depth charge explosions occurred near the Drum on starboard side and above and just below stern. . Trim and hydraulic pumps took moderate damage, forward and aft batteries, electric motors, port prop shaft. Water and air lines leaking. Stern torpedo tubes damaged. All damage repaired at sea within 48 hours. 24 October- Depth Charge Attack #3 0632 multiple depth charge explosions caused flooding in forward engine room with serious damage to No 1 and 3 electric engines. Aft batteries, rudder and stern plane transmissions damaged. Air and water line leaks throughout boat. No 1 and No 2 periscopes damaged. All damage repaired within 48 hours except for No.1 and No 3 electric motors. Complete repairs to the motors unable to be completed at sea. Submerged speed limited to 7.8 knots for remainder of patrol. (J) Radio Radio performance during this patrol was optimal. (K) Radar SJ radar performed well, typically detecting targets at 14-15 nautical miles. SD Radar performance was overall excellent typically detecting targets at 11 nautical miles. However, it was observed against planes flying below 1000 feet the detection range dropped 6-7 nautical miles. Without SD radar, surfaced patrol would be close to impossible due to heavy air activity in Luzon Straits. (L) Sound Gear and Conditions Sound conditions were average to excellent in patrol areas. The detection of the task force was made at extreme range. (M) Thermal layers Thermal layers were common in the waters of Luzon Straits and detected at depths varying from 150-280 feet. (N) Health and Habitability Health and morale of the crew was excellent with habitability remaining excellent on this sixty day war patrol. (O) Personnel Personnel performance on this patrol was excellent, as demonstrated by the six confirmed sinkings. (Q) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used Pearl to Area 5611 Miles 60377 Gallons In Area 4868 Miles 34165 Gallons Area to Majuro 4346 Miles 56561 Gallons Total 14325 Miles 151103 Gallons (R) Duration Days Enroute to Area 17 Days in Area 30 Days Enroute to Base 13 Days Submerged 11 Total 60 (T) Factors of Endurance Remaining Torpedoes 2 Fuel 8500 gallons Provisions 10 days Personnel 10 days Limiting Factor of This Patrol: Remaining fuel. (U) Radio and Radar Countermeasures APR-1 detected numerous radar emissions from enemy aircraft throughout the patrol. Only once were transmissions detected from enemy surface vessels. It is believed that the surface search radar is still not common for enemy escorts. (V) Remarks Rescue of Allied POW's: On 30 October at 0930, lookouts spotted a life raft at bearing 001 degrees roughly four nautical miles away. Closed raft with caution and by 0945, was along side. The raft contained six Allied POW's(four Australian and two British) who were aboard a ship sunk on 13 October by Drum. The area was searched for others but none were located. Rescue location:9 57 N 118 50 E Torpedo performance was excellent on this patrol. While the MK 18 has a clear advantage of lacking a wake, it's limited speed can make shots against high speed targets such as the heavy cruiser missed on 20 October a challenge. With five ships and an estimated 31,450 tons sunk, this was a excellent patrol, Drum's best to date. Last edited by Bubblehead1980; 09-17-21 at 10:54 AM.