Stories and Patrol Logs + Screenshots and Videos (merged)

[Arlo]

Wonderfully detailed patrol report, Bubblehead! I was holding my breath at times. Definitely an example of going above and beyond.

[Bubblehead1980]

Originally Posted by Arlo

Wonderfully detailed patrol report, Bubblehead! I was holding my breath at times. Definitely an example of going above and beyond.

Thanks, enjoy read other's reports, that one was an interesting one, figured I would share.

I put this patrol report together a while back, formatted to resemble an actual WW II war patrol report , and kept a log of activity during the patrol. You may enjoy the read.

https://www.subsim.com/radioroom/dow...o=file&id=5657

[Bubblehead1980]

August 22, 1943
Area "Dunkers Derp"
USS Tambor SS-198
TMO 2.5 w custom mods.

Nice shot from last patrol. One of those intense moments that lead to hours of intense moments.


Located a south bound convoy (likely headed for Truk) in patrol area one day after arriving in area. Dusk was not long away so moved ahead for night surface attack.


Closed in and observed a large tanker (11800 ton GENYO MARU), selected tanker for four bow torpedoes and a large freighter for two. Closed to 2200 yards and fired. As torpedoes were inbound, observed a previously undetected Chidori Class Torpedo Boat/Escort moving into position, not far away. This could complicate an escape as we began the turn away, prepared to dive if needed. Just before torpedoes impact, Chidori spotted Tambor, illuminating Tambor with her spotlight. Just then BOOM....tanker impacted and went up with one torpedo, this one was carrying fuel southbound, judging by the large fireball. Two other torpedoes that hit the freighter was a dud and one missed, only one report of a dud. With Chidori turning towards Tambor, illuminated, merchants firing deck guns as well as Chidori, no time to turn, opted to turn bow towards Chidori to keep minimum profile/target for her gunners, and ordered a dive. We slid under....and endured a intense depth charging.

[Arlo]

FOTRSU + Ship Interior (officer's country) for FOTRSU.

Dec. 7, 1941 .. Lcdr. Sherman commanding.

Orders received:




Control room gauges - dive station:



Plotted course:



Urgent radio message:







Periscope depth:



Deep dive:



Control room gauges - dive station - during deep dive:



Control room helm gauges:



Radio shack:



Unauthorized man in chief's country:



Gauges in skipper's bunk:



Chief in wardroom:



Clock in wardroom:



WHAT?! Who is responsible for this?!:



What's cookin', Cookie?:



Beyond this is a mystery ... for now:



Time to test 'general quarters':



Conning tower helm gauges:



Control room ballast gauges:



Aft control room general gauges:



Control room pressure gauges:



And thanks for the info on how to use the sonar station in FOTRSU:



Less images and more text will follow. This will serve as a 'patrol log' and general test, recording any glitches in the mod.

[propbeanie]

Just to point out, historically speaking, the IJN sent 2 DD in from the northeast of Midway to shell the islands on the morning of December 7 (Pearl time). The do not come in too close, but hopefully, close enough to let loose some shots at the gun emplacements on the islands...

If you do Wake, the Betty's come in like clockwork, and will lay the place waste, if it could be destroyed, that is... - silly game!

I am currently watching my game on one screen, while I have the Task Manager and the browser open, along with PhotoShop, Discord, Notepad++, 2x File Explorer, and various other apps, while I watch and see if I can stress the game enough for my Sargo to do the 12 O'Clock High trick. I am wondering about the game's use of the gramophone, and if there is a limit to the folder size of the music used perhaps. I do know that the limit is 99 file names, but... Anyway, glad you looked at the bottom of the menu. lol - You will "transfer" to Pearl as appropriate, and then probably have to come back in to get another assignment, but you are then based at Pearl. The Same with Wake. Carry on, Mister!

[Bubblehead1980]

13 January-10 March 1944
USS Jack SS-259 (Gato Class)
TMO 2.5 w custom mods.


After last(11th) patrol USS Tambor (Career began Dec 1941) boat was unexpectedly retired (error in the retirement date at end of 1943 instead of beginning of 1945 when class was retired. Possibly prompted by the fact that although I sunk 4 ships on final Tambor patrol, a CTD entering Fremantle and reload of bug only gave me credit for one, even though they appeared in the log). Will correct the bug and try again, made it that far.

New career with USS Jack SS-259 Gato. After three successful patrols out of Pearl Harbor to Area 4 (Tokyo), Bonin Islands (Corridor II) area, and Area 10 (Sea of Japan) and an "overhaul" (skipped a patrol in late 1943, representing when real life USS Jack went to Mare Island to have troublesome HOR engines replaced).

Ready for patrol in January 1944, transferred to Fremantle, but would Pearl Harbor, would conduct a war patrol en route(modified the Flotilla files so could do this, always annoyed me this feature was removed when "rang up" a transfer, had to transit there. Still trying to figure out how to implement it into the sim).


Departed Pearl Harbor on 13 January 1944, transited to Midway at 15.5 knots and topped off fuel. Set course West for Area Ablaze. Would patrol there and then head through Luzon Straits and South China Sea, Balabac Strait, Celebes Sea to Lombok Strait and onto Australia. With the long journey likely to stretch fuel thin, proceeded to area at 11.5 knots.


Arrived in Area Ablaze and patrolled for two weeks, avoiding patrol planes and chasing two contact reports but was unable to locate. On morning of February 8th was tracking a possible enemy submarine but the a storm moving in, heavy seas, clouds, rain and fog, lost contact.

On February 12th departed patrol area, proceeded off East coast of Formosa, West of Sakishima Islands and entered Luzon Straits. Proceeded along the known convoys routes heading South.

At 0352 on 19 February in Area B4 in South China Sea, SJ made contact. The newly installed SJ-1 radar displayed the pips nicely on the PPI screen, had what appeared to be five ships in two columns and two escorts. Went to General Quarters and Closed in at flank speed for night surface attack.

At 0437 was 4000 yards off the track. Jack had located a tanker convoy, that was on course of 038 at 11 knots. two columns(two large tankers in starboard column, three mid sized tankers in port). Set up to fire three Mark 14's each at the two large tankers in the starboard column, now identified as the (lead) NIPPON MARU of 10000 tons and the GENYO MARU(trailer) of 11800 tons.


As the tankers crossed Jack's bow, aimed TBT and fired three at GENYRO MARU and then NIPPON MARU...one torpedo aimed at middle, bow, and under the aft stack of each tanker...all set on depth of 8-12 feet.

Being at just 2200 yards at time of firing, the torpedo run was short. First torpedo to hit the GENYO MARU set off a massive and loud explosion(hav eto love EAX sound sim mod) and fireball, subsequent hits contributed to the conflagration. All three torpedoes hit the NIPPON MARU which went up in a similar manner. Both tankers were left flaming wrecks and sunk within ten minutes.

Just as the torpedoes were about to hit, Jack went ahead flank and hard to port to turn away and make a run away after torpedo impact. After the two tankers went up in flames, star shells were spotted and observed the rear escort (subsequently identified as a Etorufu Class Escort) came charging in at maxiumum speed, firing it's deck gun as well as machine guns/autocannon, splashes landing in vicinity of Jack, but none too close. The remaining tankers also fired their deck guns, landing multiple splashes but this subsided quickly and no damage was done.

The lead escort(later identified as a Mikura/Type B Class Escort) however, while more distant, seemed to have a bead on Jack as fired multiple star shells to illuminate and then several splashes from it's deck gun landed within 30-50 yards of Jack during initial run away but as range quickly opened, splashes quickly grew distant. Both escorts were charging towards Jack. Showing stern to closest escort, manned aft TBT and opened tubes, in case needed to fire a down the throat shot with Mark 18's in stern tubes. Splashes from deck guns and auto cannon/machine guns continued to splash but were not too close, sans a lucky few hits from machine guns on conning tower, which did no damage. With Jack running at flank speed, was slowly opening distance and gunfire subsided while star shells continued to fly and both escorts pursued.

With range one escorts now opened to 5000 yards, splashes stopped and continued pulled away into the darkness. Around 9000 yards out, escorts slowed and began circling, dropping depth charges, convinced Jack had submerged. Slipped away and went for end around to catch the remaining tankers while unguarded.

Closed in to 2500 yards and turned stern to fire Mark 18's in stern tubes (bow tubes still being reloaded) on a trailing tanker, the SEITO MARU (6200 tons). Ships were zigging back and forth along their NNW course at 6 knots. Fired four Mark 18's but just at time of firing, the target increased speed to 10 knots in a straight run, Mark 18's missed astern. Revved up to pursue for another attack when SD made contact with an incoming night flyer, range of plane closed to less than 5 NM and closing, Jack submerged. Back at radar depth, plane was now over the scene of the sinking's circling assisting escorts, flying so low showed up on SJ PPI scope as a third pip.

Jack secured from GQ for some rest, continued reload and raced ahead for a last night surface attack before dawn (due to departure from Pearl Harbor and operating off Japan, the sim's clock did not update to local time properly as it rarely does, and dawn was not breaking until around 1100 lol).

After some initial trouble regaining SJ contact, located convoy around 0900. Convoy was reformed with three tankers in single column with escort forward and and in the rear. That pesky night flyer was roaming the area as well but never came within 6 NM of Jack.

Noticed a quarter moon had now risen in the east, crossed convoys bow at flank speed and turned toward it 4000 yards off it's track, pointing bow at lead escort to keep low profile. The slight moonlight silhouetted the convoy perfectly.In the lead was the Mikura Escort, followed by the tankers... 4800 ton BUZYUN MARU, 6800 ton AKEBONO MARU, 6000 ton SEITO MARU, and the Etorofu escort. Convoy was on course 060 at 11.5 knots.

Closed to 2300 yards off port side of convoy, fired three Mark 14's at the BUZYUN MARU and AKEBONO MARU. Aimed shots at middle of targer, bow, and aft stack as before to cover length of target. First torpedo impact hit BUZYUN MARU amidships and started a fire, the second hit under the stack and set off a massive explosion, followed by a larger secondary explosion and fireball, other torpedo hit as aimed and destroyer the bow. The AKEBONO MARU was hit by two torpedoes amidships and in bow, as it made evasive turn to port(towards Jack), with the aft torpedo missing(suspected it ran deep but may have missed due to the turn) . AKEBONO MARU was left on fire but afloat and underway. Gunfire from the two remaining tankers and escorts poured in as Jack raced away on surface, but the escorts did not pursue with the same vigor as previous attack, suspect never made firm contact on Jack visually. The lead continued on escorting the tankers, while other guarded their port side, occasionally running out towards Jack but then charging back.


Pulled out o 6 NM and observed, wanted to see if the damaged tanker would go dead in the water, so could finish it off later but it continued underway, surprisingly. With dawn approaching, conducted end around with a follow up periscope attack, dodging supporting patrol planes.

Regained contact a few hours later, dove and approached for submerged attack with Mark 18's in stern tubes. At 1400 yards, observed the SEITO MARU in lead with AKEBONO MARU following, one escort forward one aft as before. From 1200 yards fired four Mark 18's at AKEBONO MARU. As raised scope to observe impact, could see the tankers were zigging! Ah the luck, all four missed the AKEBONO but then unexpectedly, the SEITO MARU was hit by one Mark 18 as SEITO MARU had sailed into the path of the wakeless torpedo. The single hit set off a massive explosion and fireball as with other tankers and quickly slipped under the surface.

Suddenly, pinging was heard. The rear escort (Etorofu) was closing in fast with a bone in its teeth. Ordered silent running and went to 375 feet. Conducted typical evasion, moving at 3 knots, 5-10 degrees on rudder at all times, initially was to port, providing low profile to sonar beam.

The escort passed overhead and let a pattern go, Jack went ahead full for 60
seconds, then slow. One charge was somewhat close and shook the Jack. Second escort arrived on scene and let a pattern go, several were close but no damage. With calm seas in ideal sonar conditions, they seemed to have a solid fix on Jack as most charges were at the boats depth. On next run by escort, went ahead flank, rudder to starboard and ordered depth of 425 feet. No close charges.

After three hours, the escorts lost Jack and departed, rejoining the remaining tanker. Surfaced and tried an end around but a pesky patrol plane kept Jack in "yo-yo" mode for the afternoon. Finally, without plane attacks, raced along the likely course of tanker and it's escorts, regaining SJ contact at 2104 hours.Pulled ahead of convoy and shadowed at 10 NM, waiting for nightfall. Jack had four Mark 23 steam torpedoes left in tubes 3,4,5, and 6.

At dusk convoy zigged hard NE. Went to GQ and closed in after nightfall. While no moon was visible, the night was clear and excellent visibility. Closed to 2500 yards and fired two Mark 23 torpedoes aimed amidships of the AKEBONO MARU. Both hit, the tanker went up in a fireball and explosion, but different than the other tankers sunk. Both escorts were immediately on Jack, closing in fast while Jack ran away dodging shell splashes. Machine gun/autocannon fire from rear escort struck Jack's stern and conning tower multiple times with minor damage to aft TBT, 40 MM gun. After a prolonged chase, escorts slowed and began searching for a submerged submarine. Jack opened the range as before and slipped into the night.Five tankers sunk in running battle over 22 1/2 hours.

With two torpedoes left and fuel at 37 percent, set course for Balabac Strait t transit Sulu Sea/Sibutu Passage/Celebes Sea/ Makassar Strait/Lombok Strait en route to Fremantle.


Over next few days dove to avoid patrol planes and while transiting Balabac Strait at night encountered a patrolling auxiliary subchaser which spotted Jack or possibly detected on radar (if it had it). Raced ahead but careful as the strait is minded with a fairly narrow safe area to transit. Outran the pursuer and made it into Sulu Sea.


At dusk the following day, encountered a patrol with a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat and an Auxiliary Subchaser. They were steaming about 3000 yards abeam of one another. Deciding with the low light conditions had an advantage and the Chidori being a valuable ASW ship, to attack. Just as fired final two Mark 23 torpedoes, Chidori made a wild course change for a sweep, torpedoes missed but continued on and one hit the Auxiliary Subchaser, decimating it. Vessel quickly slipped beneath the surface. Went to 350 feet and silent running expecting a counter attack, but Chidori never located Jack.

Surface and proceeded home, dodging patrol planes and surface patrols, fighting heavy seas and storms. Finally transited Lombok Strait on night of March 5th, dodging the patrols and a patrol plane south of Lombok the next morning. Arrived Fremantle on 10 March 1944 and terminated patrol.


Note: This patrol somewhat resembles Jack's real life fourth patrol in which it did depart Pearl and terminated at Fremantle(where she would be based for next year or so) , conducting war patrol en route in the South China Sea, "sweeping" a tanker convoy. If had not read "Silent Running" by Vice Admiral James Calvert, you should. Calvert was a young officer on board Jack during most of her patrols, including the Tanker sweep, ran the TDC. Excellent memoir.

When reworking traffic for my forthcoming TMO upgrade, this is one of the "historic" convoys I added to be at historically accurate time and place (within bounds of the sim, of course) so player could engage. Unlike some of those others, there was not ULTRA message for this one and while I was in a likely shipping lane, I did just stumble upon ii while on patrol. Always kind of cool to see things unfold like that.


A few screenshots:

[Bubblehead1980]

USS Jack SS-259
TMO 2.5 with custom mod
100 realism. External cam off for Patrol 6, on for patrol 7.


Sixth War Patrol: 11 April-15 May 1944

Departed Fremantle, Australia at 1300 on 11 April with orders to Luzon Strait (Convoy College). Topped off fuel tanks at Exmouth Gulf on 13 April. Deciding to forgo the excitement of running Lombok Strait, decided to proceed via Timor Strait and Banda and Molucca Seas up the East coast of Philippines to enter the straits. Avoided a few patrol planes via diving.


On April 19th at 0930 SJ made contact on a convoy on a south-west course. Convoy was 70 NM off the NW tip of Halmahera. Closed in and sent contact report, ordered to attack. Closed a large NAGRA MARU freighter and fired four Mark 18 torpedoes from stern tubes at 1000 yards. All four hit, the ship slowed caught fire, took a heavy starboard listed and sunk in five minutes. Escorts hunted by were unable to locate the Jack as found a nice thermal layer, seas were choppy and was running silent at 375 feet.


Surfaced at dusk and continued for patrol area along East coast of Philippines. Numerous air patrols (day and night) required Jack to yo-yo and slowed progress.

On 22 April ran into massive storm which slowed progress. SJ contacted a small convoy appeared to be 2 ships with 3 escorts, likely heading for Lamon Bay. Due to weather conditions , did not pursue, continued towards patrol area.

Received ULTRA regarding a high priority troop convoy (Take Ichi or Bamboo No.1) carrying reinforcements for New Guinea, with scheduled stop at Manila. Convoy had departed Shanghai and transited the east coast of Formosa. that would be transited Jack's patrol area (Luzon Straits 0n 25 April. Rang up turns for 18 knots to arrive in area as weather cleared. Entered area just before noon on 24 April. Dodging several air patrols as well as a surface patrol via repeated dives.

At 1501 SJ made contact on a large convoy. The PPI scope showed a large body of 15 ships with 12 escorts, Jack had located the subject of the ULTRA. Pulled ahead of the convoy which was zigging often, went to GQ and ordered a dive when convoy zigged towards Jack, exploiting a gap in the tight screen noticed when convoy zigged.

To get closed enough for a good shot, went to 300 feet and ahead full for 6 minutes, back at scope depth, could see multiple large troop ships and large transports, some with tanks and trucks on deck in two columns, they appeared to be constant helming but maintain a speed of twelve knots. A large minelayer appeared to be convoy commander as it was in the lead. Targeted a large KOTOBUKI MARU (18000 tons) troopship for a shot from 5000 yards with Mark 14's. An aircraft was spotted through the scope and took sub to 100 feet. Back at scope depth, prepared to shoot as TDC looked great. When raised scope for firing observation, convoy had zigged away, range opening fast. Deciding a hit unlikely, withheld fire and went deep, would let convoy pass, end around for a night surface attack as sundown was approaching fast.

Surfaced and raced ahead, maintaining SJ contact and diving twice to avoid a patrol plane. Finally at 2100, after nightfall, was in position, would move in for attack.

Judging from situation, Jack could close to 4500-5000 yards for a shot. Fire a full bow and stern spread into convoy at center and likely get hits on several ships. The APR-1 RWR was receiving radar signals from a vessel in the screen (indentified as Yagumo Destroyer) so had to move in carefully to avoid giving radar a solid target.

As moved in, convoy unexpectedly zigged towards Jack, placing Jack well inside the screen and just 2200 yards from the two columns of troopships with nearing escort 2000 yards astern, his radar apparently not detecting Jack due to low profile.

Targeted a large KITRUIN MARU troopship and DAKAR MARU transport. Tanks could be made out in the DAKAR MARU's deck. Just as was about to fire, the KITRUIN MARU was obscured by a large ship as ships continued to regain position after the last zig. The the 18000 ton KOTOBUKI MARU troopship had sailed right into Jack's crosshairs (the luck!) and decided to fire four torpedoes at KOTOBUKI and two at the DAKAR MARU.

At 2124, fired all torpedoes. Moved closer and a plane to run through a gap in convoy and the screen on other side of convoy as had not closed yet after the zig. At 2126....BOOM! Four hits on KOTOBUKI MARU, which caught fire from bow to stern and slowed. BOOM two hits on DAKAR MARU. Jack was now running towards the gap when the Yamgumo DD now at 3100 yards, apparently detected Jack on it's radar, and illuminated Jack with spotlight and star shells.

Multiple heavy shells and machine gun tracers were flying Jack's way landing in waters, some machine gun/autocannon fire hit Jack's deck with no damage. The Yagumo has now trained its spotlight on Jack and was closing fast from astern. Unable to outrun her and worried about catching fire, ordered a DIVE. Jack went down and went ahead flank, heading to hide under the large ships. Went silent at 375 feet. Several Depth Charges fell, but none too close. Could tell escorts were obstructed by the mass of ships scrambling about above.

Two hours later came to scope depth and then radar depth. Convoy was moving on SSW zigging, one escort was 9000 yards away, searching, dropping occasional depth charge. A ship spotted and identified as DAKAR MARU was dead in the water at 6000 yards, thanks to the two hits made earlier. Ordered reload and closed. Fired a shot from stern tube, which sunk the 7629 ton transport at 2304. Jack surfaced, secured from GQ and raced to regain contact with the main body.

At 0300 on 25 April, regained SJ contact. Convoy was now on SW course zigging at 12 knots as before and reorganized into the two columns and escort. Jockeyed for position trying to get a shot, but was stymied by the Yagumo DD and her radar. Finally at 0500, was able to make a long range shot from 6000 yards. With torpedoes still 3000 yards from target. Yamgumo DD painted Jack with radar and closed in at flank speed, firing star shells. Went ahead flank and maneuvered to get away, trying to avoid diving. While evading the DD, suddenly BOOM! torpedo hit early, impacting one of the screening vessels. Turned out to be a Kamikaze Class Destroyer, which eventually went down by the bow.

A minute later Boom! Boom!, two hits on troopship. The KITURUIN MARU was set afire and slowed. As raced away the Yamgumo DD was now at 3900 yards but in the dark night, seemed only have a tentative location. Manned aft TBT, opened outer doors and torpedoes in stern tubes set to minimum depth, would make a down the throat shot if needed. While running at flank speed, put two degrees port rudder on , conducting a slow small turn to turn off the Yagumo's track. The Yamgumo did not turn with Jack and was soon easing off the course. With stern kept to Yagumo to present low profile the radar beam, seemed would slip away. Suddenly...BOOM! Another torpedo hit in the distance. A look showed a fresh fire burning. Seems one of the torpedoes missed the initial target but had hit an escort on other side of the screen. An Etorofu Class escort was burning and quickly sunk. The Yamgumo was now heading S while Jack was heading SE and was 4000 yards away, but Yagumo then seemed to regain contact and fire star shells at Jack, illuminating her. Soon shell splashes were landing in waters near Jack and DD was closing in at over 30 knots. Unable to evade and after a close shell splashed off port side, ordered a dive.

Jack went to 375 feet, silent running. The DD roared overhead, let a few pings go, dropped a pattern of charges, two were close, estimated at 350 feet, while Jack was at 375. The DD hunted Jack for over an hour but never regained a solid contact. At 0631 contact with DD, last heard at 9500 yards at 160 was lost. At 0730 came to scope depth, no contacts visible. At radar depth, no SJ or SD contacts. Secured from GQ, surfaced and raced to regain contact while reloading torpedoes. Jack could likely make a submerged attack before convoy was out of her area.

Thus far Jack had sunk two large troopships, one large transport, and two escorts from this important convoy.

At 1030 SJ made contact. The convoy was heading SSE at 12 knots, zigging radically. By 1230 Jack was ahead of convoy and when zigged towards Jack, dove for submerged attack. Jack had four Mark 14's remaining in bow tubes and three Mark 14's in stern tubes.

A periscope observation revealed Jack would need a speed bust to get within firing range as convoy had changed base course slightly. Went to 300 feet and went ahead flank.

Heading back for scope depth, as passed 100 feet 1251....three close explosions rocked Jack, but luckily do damage. . Apparently a patrolling aircraft had spotted Jack in the calm clear waters as she ascended to periscope depth. of South China Sea. Heading back to 200 feet. more explosions landed but none close, the plane has lost us. Reports of warships closing fast, merchants moving away indicated the convoy was aware of our approach.

Down at 375 feet two escorts closed in. One sounded like a DD(did not use external camera to evade escorts, never do, was on for screenshots) and other a subchaser type. Several patterns fell, some close. Jack was forced to 475 feet, eventually losing the escorts. Which hunted for four hours.

Finally, back at scope depth, all clear. Surfaced, but two patrol planes remained in area, causing Jack to yo-yo. Surfaced at nightfall and continued high speed pursuit but was unable to regain contact At midnight on 26 April, broke off pursuit. Final tally...two large troopships and one large transport with one destroyer and one escort sunk.


Continued patrol for next couple of days, dodging patrol planes. On 29 April located a southbound convoy in Luzon Straits. Fired three stern tubes in night surface attack, but all missed due to 1/2 knot speed error. Convoy sped up from 9 1/2 knots to 10 knots just after firing. Attempted to conduct dawn submerged attack but convoy zigged and and multiple patrol planes kept Jack from conducting end around . Jack was bombed twice when diving to avoid. no damage.


On 2 May SJ made contact with large convoy in Luzon Straits heading NNE at 11 knots. Closed in for night surface attack sneaking through the 5 vessel escort screen of the 9 ships. 6 of which were tankers of 5000-10000 tons. Target a large 10000 ton NIPPON MARU, firing four Mark 14's from 2500 yards at 0100 3 May. At 0102 all torpedoes hit, the tanker erupted into massive fireball, obviously loaded with oil bound for Japan.

The nearest escort at 2100 yards spotted Jack as she turned away and pursued firing a few star shells to illuminate. Soon it was obvious the subchaser while making 19-20 knots could knot overtake Jack. Jack continued to race away, eventually disappearing into the night. Out of torpedoes, Jack headed for Fremantle. Arriving 15 May 1944.



Seventh War Patrol: 7 June-13 July 1944.


Departed Fremantle on 13 July for NW coast of Luzon Area A2. After topping off fuel of Exmouth Gulf, headed for Lombok Strait. Encountered usual patrols at southern and northern entrances to straight, as well as PC in central area. The central patrol had radar and pursued Jack but was able to outrun it. Avoided Northern patrol and exited strait at 0112. Set course for area via Java Sea, Karamata Strait, up west coast of Borneo (real life track Jack took on this patrol, per her operation order).

No contacts during transit aside from patrol planes. Ran into storms when west of Manila. Entered patrol area on 21 June.


On 22 June made contact on a Northbound 13 ship, 4 escort convoy. Being 0800 and having Mark 18's in both bow and stern tubes, opted for submerged attack.

Closed to 1200 yards from the outer column and fired at two BIYO MARU class merchants with three torpedoes each. The wakelesss torpedoes hit home, sinking both freighters. Jack went deep and endured intense but brief depth charging with minor damage.


Back on surface, conducted end around and attacked after night fall on surface. At 2500 yards fired on large 14000 ton NOKURA MARU tanker and with four Mark 14's from bow tubes and a TAKEI MARU 3900 ton tanker with two Mark 14's. The NOKURA MARU was hit and erupted in a fireball. The TAKEI MARU was hit by two and erupted in fireball as well.

Jack was illuminated by star shells and had a DE type and escort closing from two directions stern, firing. Shells landed close at one point but was able to avoid them. The Matsu Class DE had radar and continued closing. Matsu closed to 3000 yards and kicked on spotlight. Forcing Jack to dive.

Jack was hunted for 6 hours, taking damage to pumps, control room and forward torpedo room. Pushed to 530 feet to get under the escorts sonar and charges, finally slipped away.


Surfaced after dawn and attempted to end around but planes prevented regaining contact with convoy. Remained submerged until dark to let crew rest.


Continued patrol when contacted a convoy heading NW, likely a MATA( MANILA to TOKO) convoy on 2 July. Closed and conducted submerged attack with stern tubes, firing two Mark 18's at a MADRAS MARU and KINOPOSAN MARU. Two hits in each vessels, the KINOPOSAN quickly went under. the MADRAS smoking and with a large hole amidships continued on. The escort's counter attack was prolonged but inaccurate. Jack held quiet at 380 feet and escaped, albeit after 8 hours.


Surfaced and pursued convoy for end around but storms rolled in slowing Jack, discontinued search after 12 hours. Continued to patrol but unable to locate further targets, likely due to days of stormy weather. Fuel was running low and headed for Fremantle via Mindoro Strait-Sulu Sea-Celebes Sea-Makassar Strait to Lombok Strait. Arrived at Fremantle on 13 July 1944.

Screen shots:


Attack on Take Ichi Convoy:

[vickers03]

Arlo, good one with the unauthorized person in the CPO room,
don't know how he got there

Btw. there is a hidden room opposite the kitchen.

[Arlo]

Originally Posted by vickers03

Arlo, good one with the unauthorized person in the CPO room,
don't know how he got there

Btw. there is a hidden room opposite the kitchen.

Not all that hidden. I consider that the optional guest quarters that currently serves as living quarters for the Exec and COB. (based on the number of chiefs and LTs aboard).

[Arlo]

Name: Miller, Irvin Seumas
Rank: Chief Petty Officer
Rating: Machinist Mate
Date of Enlistment: Dec. 26, 1917
Age: 40
D.O.B.: Dec. 26, 1900
Place of Birth: Boston Mass.
Marital Status: Single
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 175 lbs.
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Distinguishing Marks: Anchor Tattoo - right forearm
Asian Female Tattoo- left forearm
Vertical Chinese Characters (4) Tattoo - left side of left
pectoral region
3 Bladed Ship's Propellor Tattoo - left shoulder
5 inch scar - right side lower abdomen

Dental: fillings outer molars upper and lower both sides
left lower canine missing

Duty Stations: Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois - 1918
Cavite - USS Elcano (PG-38) 1918-1920 E-4
Shanghai - USS Elcano (PG-38) 1921-1924 E-5
Naval Submarine Base New London (BESS) - 1925
Mare Island - USS S-14 (SS-119) - 1926 E-6
Panama Canal/St. Thomas - USS S-20 (SS-125) - 1927-1930
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii - USS S-20 (SS-125) - 1930-1932 E-7
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii - USS S-32 (SS-137) 1932-1937
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard - 1937-1940 (Participated on
shakedown cruises of SS-191, SS-199 and SS-200)
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii - USS Trout (SS-202) - 1941

As much information as the record shows and even as much inference as one might glean from reading between the lines, personnel records seldom tell the whole story.

Irvin Miller barely made natural born citizen status. His family immigrated from Ireland to Boston, arriving in September of 1900. Irvin's older brother, Donald Jeffery, walked down the gangplank under his own power at the age of six and had to go through the same naturalization process as their parents.

Don joined the U.S. Navy in 1912 at the age of 18. Irvin, who was bound and determined to follow in his older brother's footsteps, promised his mother that he would wait until his eighteenth birthday to enlist but that was before April 6, 1917 when the United States declared war on Germany. From that point Irvin petitioned her for a letter of consent, allowing him to enlist at seventeen. People were saying that the war would end in less than a year now that the U.S. was involved and Irvin wanted his chance to participate. Don was already on a destroyer, escorting convoys.

This was hard enough to consider when Irvin came of age to make that decision without her consent. The boy's father, Carmichael, died in 1910 working at the Naval Shipyard, constructing coal barges. He came over with that trade and it made for a decent living. The pension she received after his death was enough to keep a roof over their heads and food in their stomachs but now she was looking at seeing her youngest leave for a life of military service at sea. Giving up even one year of his being at home was a difficult thing to consider yet seeing how miserable he would be (and how miserable she would be, in turn) she made a Christmas gift of the letter he asked for and the day after Christmas Irvin enlisted.

It's been said by many a sailor that the more you want a specific type of duty or station location, the less likely you'll receive it ... even if it's to fight in a war. And so it goes that after graduation from boot camp Irvin was sent to be a basic seaman with the Asiatic Fleet. Even more so, the component which protected American interests on the Chinese Yangtze River.

Reporting aboard the old gunboat U.S.S. Elcano in 1918, as an apprentice, Irvin showed enough skill with machinery to become a striker for Machinist's Mate. And as he served in that capacity, hostilities with Germany ended in November.

Irvin saw U.S. submarines in Manila and became fascinated. He knew the German submarines of the war were a force to be reckoned with and recalled some of Don's post-war letters describing the tension of the destroyer versus submarine cat and mouse game as he participated in shielding merchants and transports from destruction. Seeing the U.S. version of those mechanical sharks of the sea made him wonder about duty on one as compared to a second-hand Spanish river patrol boat.

In 1921 the Elcano switched it's port of operations from Cavite to Shanghai. By that time Irvin was advancing from Third Class Machinist's Mate to Second Class. He also began acquiring tattoos, the first of which was the stereotypical 'anchor on a forearm.' He would acquire three more while he was part of the Yangtze River Patrol navy. They were, in this order, the three bladed ship's propeller as seen on the Machinist Mate rating tattooed to his left shoulder; a tattoo of a scantily clad Asian looking female on his left forearm; and, lastly, the Chinese symbols, vertically displayed, on the left side of his left pectoral region that supposedly mean 'Shanghai sailor' (though if seen and asked about he might randomly reply that it means 'Kiss my arse' or 'Horsec*ck' or whatever came to mind that amused him at the moment.

Service on the Yangtze was a mixture of boredom on the river, exotic experiences in Chinese drinking establishments (that offered way more than drinks), very dirty work on old engines and other machinery that was constantly on the verge of breaking down (which actually turned out to be very valuable experience) and contention with warlords and their minions requiring protection of both missionaries and the assets and personnel of the Standard Oil Corporation from such. Thus was the state of affairs when Elcan received her new commanding officer, Lcdr. Lockwood. He had recently served with the submarine service and it was during he 'review of the crew/time to re-enlist' one on one interviews with chiefs and petty officers that when the inevitable 'you are showing great promise and advancing well, where do you see yourself, in the navy in the next four years?' that Miller immediately replied, "Serving with the submarine force, sir!" Lcdr. Lockwood, impressed with the response and recognizing the potential, signed orders for him to go to submarine training upon re-enlistment which was performed post-haste.

Thus ends the transition from 'Shanghai Sailor' to 'Submarine Sailor' for MM2 Irvin S. Miller.

It would be hard to classify Miller's service with submarines as 'uneventful' but it did progress satisfactorily. After sub school he was assigned to USS S-14 out of Mare Island where he rose to the rank of MM1. In 1927 he transferred to SS-20 which was based out of the Panama Canal zone and cruised the Caribbean (U.S. Virgin Islands). He stayed with the SS-20 when it was transferred to Pearl Harbor and advanced to Chief in 1931.

When SS-20 was relocated from Pearl Harbor in 1932, Miller transferred to SS-32 which was still based there (he developed a particular fondness for that duty station and now that he was a chief he could influence his locale better).

It was at this time (1937) that Miller was approached about being specifically groomed to become a 'Chief of the Boat.' It seems that Lcdr. (now Cdr.) Lockwood had been keeping track of his progress from his position as Submarine Operations assistant to the Chief of Naval Operations and Miller was on the short list to be considered for Chief of the Boat for the new Tambor class submarine.

To transition from S class boats and familiarize himself fully with the Tambor class, Miller would report to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to participate in classroom study, participation with construction and shakedown cruises, eventually to be selected as one of the 'Chiefs of the Boat' for one of the new Tambor class submarines (pending commanding officer approval). The new and improved fleet submarine had arrived.

Miller smiled to himself while reading his orders and chewing on his perpetually unlit cigar.

"Guess I gotta Re-enlist."

[Kaptlt.Endrass]

Howdy folks! Wanted to get off the ground and post my first SH4 pic, as well as ask a couple questions. First off, the eye candy; USS Sturgeon underway from Cavite enroute to the Celebes Sea in early 1942.



Now, as for my curiosity: I have already downloaded and installed RFB to the game, but am looking to explore some more. I've taken looks at both TMO and FotRSU, but on attempting to download, neither download link seems to work via Subsim, nor their respective links. I was wondering if anyone knew about this, and if there is a workaround.

Additionally, is there a mod that does for SH4 what GWX did for SH3, if neither of these fulfill that? (Talking additional ships, campaign improvements, more realistic but not TOO heavy into it, etc...)

Any help will be appreciated, and thank you in advance! Can't wait to get into the Pacific war.

[propbeanie]

Ooo-oooh... prehty... As for the Downloads, look at the top of the page there, and Onkel Neal has a notice about "blockers", so you might have to either "white-list" SubSim, or use a different web browser... TMO is a difficulty mod, while FotRSU is the pretty one...

[Arlo]

Originally Posted by propbeanie

TMO is a difficulty mod, while FotRSU is the pretty one...

Hey now, I think TMO looks pretty great on my system. I am looking forward to a forward torpedo room, aft berthing, engine and aft torp room for the large fleet boats, though. Maybe they'll be also available for TMO and RFB. (I don't ask for a lot, do I?)

How does one get started in coding modeling?

[vickers03]

How does one get started in coding modeling?

download wings3d, it's free. watch a youtube tutorial and start modelling

[Bubblehead1980]

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
100 realism no cams, no contacts

31 October/1 November 1944
USS Baya - 3rd War patrol
Area D3 South China Sea
Departed with 68 Officers and Men aboard.
24 Mark 18 torpedoes
300 rounds 5 inch ammunition.
2000 rounds 40 MM ammunition.
2000 rounds 20 MM ammunition.

Departed Fremantle on 16 October assigned to Area D3. Intelligence reports indicate Singapore-Japan convoy lanes have shifted to the China/Indochina coast and would cross the shallows off Cau Mau Peninsula and South Gulf of Siam.

Ran the gauntlet of Lombok Strait night of 18/19 October, conning Baya to avoid total of 6 patrol vessels, one at southern entrance, three in center on a roving patrol, and two at northern entrance/exit. APR-1 detected multiple radar emissions. A radar equipped aircraft patrolled the area as well.

Believe at 2304 the center patrol detected Baya on radr as they suddenly turned to and sped towards us from 9000 yards. Given the dark night, unlikely was visually detected. Baya went ahead flank and was pushed towards east side of strait, mindful to keep away to coast due to shore batteries and minefields. A high speed run pulled Baya away from the escorts which SJ showed went to our previous location. From distance could hear depth charges being dropped, patrol likely assumed Baya submerged.

As approached the Northern end of strait, the pesky night flyer appeared on SD and was heading right over Baya, not wanting to dive due to reports of submerged mines and losing momentum to be clear of the strait by dawn, turned away to open ran from contact. The plane apparently did not detect Baya on its radar as flew to location where the central patrol was last scene dropping depth charges. With some evaded the northern patrols.

Set course for patrol area via Java Sea and Karimata Straits.

Submerged for SD conact at 1545. When back at scope depth, conducted visual and sound sweep. Sound detected faint props of a possible submarine at 004 degrees. Decided to remain submerged and check on this contact as could be enemy or could be a friendly. SJ radar showed no surface contacts.

At 1558 visually identified a surface submarine. Went to GQ and began closing along it's projected track. An observation at 1603 revealed a Japanese I Class submarine on a SSE course making 12 knots, possibly heading to Surabaya. Due to it's track change, opted for stern shot. Took Baya to 90 feet and executed a turn to port to bring stern to bear. Would fire stern tubes from 1800 yards. Readied all stern tubes.

At 1607 raised scope for firing observation...fired tubes 7 and 8. Two Mark 18 torpedoes, fired at 5 second intervals from 1900 yards and aimed at middle of target left the tubes. At 1609 first torpedo hit amidships, the submarine exploded in a large fireball. Torpedo two hit toward the bow, possibly the torpedo room as a slightly delayed but extremely powerful secondary explosion occurred. Within seconds the submarine went down by the bow. On sonar could hear the breaking of the sub and multiple secondary explosions occurred over course of 5 minutes. A oil slick and fire remained on surface for some time as Baya surfaced and went on a high speed run to clear the area. An hour later, submerged to avoid an air contact. Surfaced and continued to area at standard speed.


Arriving in patrol area on afternoon of 24 October, Baya made SJ contact with a south bound convoy coming approaching coast of Malaya no doubt destined for Singapore at 1604. A fathomer check revealed sufficient depth of 200 feet for evasion so opted for submerged attack, to be followed up be a night surface attack if possible. Baya, for first time was equipped for the SBT-1 decoy which should aid in evasion of enemy escorts after attack. Attacking would slow the convoy down after initial attack and provide multiple chances to attack before convoy departed Baya's patrol area and the relative safety of the Indochina coast.

Closed convoy from the port side. Observation showed a thirteen ship five escort convoy with three large columns. Escorts forward, rear, and two on each flank. Convoy was on a course of 220. Upon next observation convoy had zigged toward Baya and was on course 180. This however, put Baya directly in the path of the lead escort. With no time for a turn, backed away at 2/3 speed and although the lead escort crossed 1000 yards ahead, Baya went undetected. On next observation convoy had settled on new course 180 and resumed speed of 10 knots. Prepared to fire on a large( estimated) 8000 ton freighter and a mid sized 5000 ton (estimated) freighter. Upon firing observation the large freighter had moved out of formation towards center column and was at a poor angle, decided to only fire on the mid sized freighter now identified as the 3806 ton MADRAS MARU. Fired two Mark 18 torpedoes from 900 yards, both hit target, causing two large holes visible above water line, smoke and fire, but the vessel continued to move. Set new speed into TDC and fired one more as the coup de grace. Torpedo hit and vessel immediately slowed, burning and listing heavily. Pinging began as the flank escort was rushing in. Took Baya to 175 feet, dropping two decoys above and below the thermocline at 150 feet. Baya turned away for a high speed run as escort closed.

Initial barrage of charges was dropped on the decoys and not too close to Baya. Went to to slow speed on silent running and avoided escorts for some time as they were distracted. A close explosion occurred, likely from an aircraft which spotted Baya in the calm clear waters. This apparently alerted escorts as sound reported them closing in fast. Went to the bottom at 201 feet dropped, two decoys while speeding away at 8 knots.

On escort took the bait while other continued to close and made four runs, dropping four large patterns. Baya took mostly minor damage but a close charge left Baya with minor flooding in forward torpedo room. After five hours of evading this pesky escort and two others who joined, was able to slip away. Surfaced after midnight and attempted to regain contact until dawn and turned north.



28 October- Surfaced after morning trim dive and made an SD contact. Submerged to avoid and sound sweep before surfacing an hour later revealed sound of props in the distance. Surfaced and closed until SJ radar established contact on a Northbound convoy, likely heading from Singapore to Indochina Coast. PPI scope showed 12 ships in three columns with 6 escorts.

Due to shallow waters decided to shadow convoy and attack on surface at night. From 0900-1800 surfaced, diving for planes, matching zigs by convoy. 31 miles off Southern Cape of Cau Mau Peninsula went in for the attack on surface, under the cover of light fog, a virtually moonless night and scattered clouds.

A zig to starboard by convoy proved advantageous for Baya as the lead starboard flanking escort was out of position after the zig, sweeping to the south. Conned the boat to just 2300 yards off starboard column. Targeted a Ryunn Maru(5000 tons estimated) and Atsutasan Maru (7843 tons). Fired three torpedoes at Atsutasan Maru and two at Ryunn Maru and began the turn away as the flanking escort was 3000 yards off and closing fast to get back into position. Lookouts identified this as an Otori Class Torpedo Boat, capable of overtaking Baya.

As Baya was now parallel to convoy with stern to the escort, all three torpedoes hit the Atsutasan Maru, which caught fire and suffered a large explosion as it slowed. Torpedo number five suffered an apparent gyro error and went way off course, while second hit the stern of the Ryunn Maru which caught fire but remained underway. Escorts and merchants now opened fire at Baya as it raced away. Ordering "Ahead Flank" (the one cool special ability that can live with, think the USS Barb running 23.5 knots on surface on overload aft er the Namkwan attack in 45) which pushed Baya to 22 knots.

The Otori increased speed and was closing asBaya readied stern tubes for down the throat shot if needed. The aft and forward 40 MM guns as well as 20 MM aft deck gun were manned in case were needed. The lead escort, now identified as a kaibokan type vessel (Type C) was closing in from the port side and Baya was "crossing her t" , not ideal for as as presented a broad target to the escort, but it was 4000 yards away and its gunfire was not accurate.

The immediate concern was the Otori at 2900 yards and closing fast. Fired two Mark 18's from stern tubes down the throat, both suffered some gyro errors as one went port and one starboard. Fired two more which went on perfect course as aimed but the Otori, apparently cautious of running down a submarine's stern, began constant helming back and forth, torpedoes missed. Reloading was commenced and continued sprinting away from the escorts. Fathometer showed just 61 feet below keel, not enough to dive.

A small amount of rudder to starboard was put on to keep Otori astern but also give less of a broadside to the other escort which was firing rapidly with autocannon , machine guns and its forward dec gun. Luckily it seems in the dark night it did not have an exact fix on Baya as all shots were quite off with shell splashes observed in the distance.

The Otori kicked on it's spotlight and opened up on Baya. The autocannon and machine gun fire was close and several shell splashes from its main battery came close. Ordered the aft 40 and 20 MM to open fired (have changed them from AA guns to deck guns, its great) and did so. Ordered to aim for command deck. After about a minute of exchanging fire, the Otori seemed to back off but just before it ceased fire, received reports of man down on the deck. Torpedoman 1/c Marshall White was fatally wounded by gunfire. Two others were slightly wounded. Other crew assumed their positions and since Otori had backed down somewhat, ordered cease fire as range opened to prevent tracers from revealing location.

The Type C and the Otori then maintained some distance (3800-4200 yards) but opened fire with their deck guns. Baya was now chasing splashes, but avoided any hits. One near miss off port bow brought a moment of "excitement" . Finally the gunfire ceased as range opened and they lost visual contact with Baya but continued pursuing. The Otori sped up to high speed and was close, so applied starboard rudder and eased off the track unseen, heading away as Otori sped by astern at 2600 yards.


Baya moved away with one large shop sunk, one damaged, one escort lightly damage by gun fire. One crew KIA, two lightly wounded (quickly returned to duty).


As Baya jockeyed for position for a follow up attack, her position was repeatedly spoiled by the Otori and other escorts. SJ picked up two apparent stragglers on radar, set course for them to find the damaged Ryunn Maru and a Type C escort making nine knots trying to catch up with the convoy.

Closed to 2200 yards and gave the Ryunn two torpedoes. Both hit and ship quickly began to settle as Baya turned away into the night. The escort pursued but only briefly before turning the rejoin convoy. The Ryunn Maru slipped under the waves soon after.


With the time now 0300, Baya had a 55 NM run get into deeper waters by dawn, so secured from GQ and headed south. Dove for the day to let crew rest and avoid the air patrols that were sure to come at dawn.

Assessing the situation, we had three merchants and submarine sunk. Boat had suffered heavy damage but most repariable. A noted problem after repairs reported complete was a fuel leak. Fuel was at 50 percent upon surfacing and in spite of operating at an economical 11 knots, noticed was rapidly approaching 30 percent. Plenty to get back to Fremantle at decent speed, with or without a stop at Exmouth Gulf. Also had two torpedoes aft with one forward. Transferred aft torpedoes to operational tubes from non operational tubes. Assessment of situation provided Baya was still an effective combat unit and decided to patrol a few more days as convoys were expected in coming days.

Foul weather hampered operations, no contacts except air and sea patrols between 28 October and 5 November.

At 2231 on 5 November, SJ made contact on a convoy about half way between Cau Mau Peninsula and Malaya. Due to moonlight providing excellent visibility and heavy seas preventing maneuvering required in surface attack and evasion, would opt for submerged attack. The 150 feet below keel would suffice if needed to evade.

At 0130 6 November was ahead of the convoy and went to GQ. PPI scope showed a single line of six vessels with seven escorts forming a circle. Radar emissions were detected from escorts on both flanks .

Closed to visual and sailed 7000 yards ahead of convoy, when starboard forward flank escort left a temporary opening in the screen as he moved off station to make a high speed sweep , went ahead emergency and charged in, turning to bring stern tubes to bear and diving to periscope depth to a position to fire from 1200 yards off track of convoy.

At 0312 two lead ships in convoy were revealed to be two large tankers. Second was estimated be a 5 or 6000 ton tanker. The lead was identified as the GENYO MARU (11800) tons. Set torpedo depth for 12 feet and opened outer doors. At 0320 fired final two Mark 18's from stern tubes at five second intervals, aiming for middle of target and the aft stack.

First torpedo hit amidships as aimed, the tanker slowed with a small fire but seemed otherwise unphased. The second hit under the aft stack as aimed causing an explosion in the engines area astern. A slight delay of two seconds occurred before a massive explosion and fireball filled up the periscope. The tanker lifted from the ocean by the force and split the keel amidships. Another explosion followed just after. A large fireball remained with burning oil on surface.

A check around with scope showed the flank escort had returned and was just 1500 yards away as the bow of Baya was turned to move away from the convoy. The escort had slowed , listening. Seeing an opportunity for the last torpedo in the forward tubes, opened outer door on tube six with depth set to minimum setting. Target was a Type C Escort. With an AOB of thirty degrees from 1100 yards and target plotted at 3 1/2 knots drifting in the seas. Fired the last torpedo. The torpedo was on target but apparently ran too deep in the heavy swells. The escort apparently heard the wakeless torpedo as it's general alarm went off and it sped up closing on Baya according to sound. Raised scope to confirm this and turned into escort at high speed to present a minimum sonar profile and ordered boat to 125 feet. Ten degrees port rudder was put on so escort's expect stern rack drop would not lay charges along the length of Baya.

A large pattern of charges were dropped and exploded but were apparently set shallow, estimated at 90-100 feet as all seemed to exploded above Baya. Went to 140 feet, 5 feet above ocean floor and speed away using the explosions and close in prop noises of escort to mask sound.

The escort (and another racing in to assist) established a strong contact on Baya for his second run and moved in. While moving at max speed to get out from under the charges, several close charges exploded near the stern. Reports of damage to aft torpedo and the engine rooms came in to the conn.

Flooding in both compartments, along with damage to various equipment and injuries to some crewmembers was reported. Put the damage control party to work on the flooding as secured from silent running and put on speed to compensate for the flooding and avoiding dragging stern in the ocean bottom. Using speed of nine knots was able to keep the boat level.

DC team controlled the flooding and began pumping while the two escorts made repeated runs, causing minor damage in conning tower and forward torpedo room. Each run seemed less accurate. I believe the heavy sea state helped mask Baya's exact position. However, several more runs, were conducted, two close charges damaged SJ and SD radars, TDC, trim and hydraulic pumps, forward and stern batteries, and heavy damage to JP sound gear. which saw reduced effectiveness.

Finally, with water pumped out was able to slow and rig for silent running now at 155 feet with just 4 feet under the keel. Pinging was heard and depth charges estimated 2000-3000 yards but never closer. Damage to trim pumps seemed to affect depth keeping ability as Baya bounced between 155 and 135 feet until repairs completed. Sound gear was reported repaired but was not sure of its effectiveness.

At 0500, slowly began ascending to periscope depth. As passed 100 feet, sound reported two warship contacts ahead of Baya closing at high speed. Seems we had sleepers. Changed course to opposite direction and escorts sailed by as Baya settled back at 155 feet at 2 knots . It is believed that while the sound gear was inoperative. These escorts sailed ahead and stopped to listen. Whether they heard as the boat ascended to scope depth, were moving out to rejoin convoy is unknown. The recent contacts keep Baya down until dawn. Reaching scope depth at 0700. SJ revealed a contact astern at 13 NM. Secured from GQ, surfaced and set course for home via Karimata and Lombok Straits. Noticed batteries would not fully charge, likely due to damage incurred. Batteries max capacity was now 97 percent.


From 5-10 November dodged numerous air patrols as transited Karimata Strait and the Java Sea in heavy seas. On the night of November, 11 "ran the gauntlet" of Lombok Strait. Oddly enough, no contacts were made with patrols and strait was cleared by 2340 hours.

The persistent leak (apparently unable to be repaired) of a damaged fuel tank left Baya down to 13 percent fuel. Course was set for Exmouth Gulf 893 nautical miles away. In spite of economical speed settings, the leak left Baya with just 1 percent fuel as it arrived at Exmouth Gulf on the morning of 13 November and refueled at the tender anchored there. Fuel tank was temporarily repaired.

While departing Exmouth, noticed loose mines(placed there to simulate errant mines protecting the entrances to the bay) from the nearby minefield, ordered guns manned and these two mines were detonated by combination of 5 inch, 40 and 20 MM gunfire.


Set course for Fremantle. 0700 14 November West of Dirk Hartog Island Australia at 26S 112E, a PBY with RAAF markings(my friendly fire mod) was spotted at 5 NM, detected by SD at 11 NM. The plane circled and made a gliding run on Baya. Believing Baya would be attacked, ordered a DIVE. As Baya passed 150 feet, multiple explosions occurred, close. Took Baya to 375 feet and remained submerged until noon. Surfaced and continued course to Fremantle, but submerged to avoid two more SD contacts.

Docked at Fremantle at 0918 15 November for termination of war patrol.


Patrol Stats:

Days on patrol:29
Torpedoes expended:24
5 inch gun rounds expended:8
40 MM gun rounds expended:21
20MM gun rounds expended:91

TotalShips Sunk: 4
Total Tonnage:25, 259 tons

1.)SS- I Class Submarine 1,800 tons 10/22/1944 16:09 4 18 S 110 31 E

2.)AK- MADRAS MARU 3,790 tons 10/24/1944 18:24 4 16 N 104 57 E

3.)AK-ATSUTASAN MARU 7,827 tons 10/28/1944 21:48 8 06 N 104 41 E

4.) AO- GENYO MARU 11,800 tons 11/06/1944 03:22 6 56 N 104 00 E



Damage to submarine: Torpedo tubes 7 and 9 inoperable. Main fuel oil tank requires repair. Minor hull damage requires repair. Forward batteries require repair or replacement, unable to gain full charge.

Casualties: One KIA, 3 WIA by gunfire but recovered. Eleven minor injuries due to depth charging. Two cases of hysteria left crewmembers "shaken" but recovered and one "manic", remained so rest of patrol. This crewmember Dismissed from crew, disqualified from submarine duty.

Summary Comments: A short, challenging patrol, albeit successful. Enemy ASW measures have improved dramatically from just a few months ago. Convoys are large and well protected. Air patrols are a constant threat. SBT decoys proved quite valuable during evasion.

Mine exploding after hits from 40 MM gun.