June, 1945

Friday, June 1, 1945
Moored starboard side to Pacific Electric and Mechanical Company dock, Lake Union, Seattle, Washington, with the following 5” manila lines in use: bow, after bow spring, forward and after quarter springs. All lines doubled up. Receiving telephone, fresh and flushing water, power and steam from the dock.

[The Mighty D is undergoing a major overhaul at this time. It will take the better part of two months to complete the work]

• 1740, Shannon, W.J. SoM2c left the ship for temporary duty with the shore patrol.
• 1740, pursuant to BuPers Order #3137-EK-6C of April 1945, Lt. George W. Capehart, Jr., was detached from this vessel to report to the Commandant of the 13th Naval District for further assignment.

June 2

• 0245, Shannon, W. J. returned aboard from shore patrol duty.
• 0800, MccCullough, C. Chief Machinist, left ship on thirty days authorized leave to expire aboard this vessel 2 July 1945.
• 1800, Neel, B.W., EM3c, left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 3

• 0200, Neel, B.W. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 0937, Lt. Cmdr. G. Abbott left ship on 30 days leave as authorized by letter dated 31 May 1945.

June 4

• 0730, Newton, G.D., Ens. left the ship for temporary duty under instruction at AATC, Pacific Beach, Washington.
• 0804, Genwick, J.A., SK2c, left the ship on 26 days authorized leave, expiring on 30 June 1945.

June 5

• 1720, Mustion, G.A., MoMM3c left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 6

• 0200, Mustion, G.A., returned from shore patrol duty.
• 0700, The following men left ship for temporary duty at Fire Fighting School, Manchester, Washington:

Bennien, G.R., Cox (in charge)
Kirchoff, R.H., S1c
Wright, R.G., S2c
Bishop, D.D., S2c
Bobich, H., F1c
Wood, J.F., F2c
Wyrick, F.E., S2c
Miller, W.L., S1c

June 7

• 1721, Mustion, G.A., left ship for shore patrol duty.
• 1723, Lt. Cmdr. Green from BuShips came aboard to inspect cracked block on #2 main engine.
• 1754, Lt. Cmdr. Green left the ship.
• 1900, The following men returned from a 2 day course in fire fighting:

Bennien, G.R., Cox (in charge)
Kirchoff, R.H., S1c
Wright, R.G., S2c
Bishop, D.D., S2c
Bobich, H., F1c
Wood, J.F., F2c
Wyrick, F.E., S2c
Miller, W.L., S1c

June 8

• 0149, Mustion, G.A. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 1245, Underway in tow of tug Andrew Floss to shift berths.
• 1310, Moored starboard side to USS ARDENT AM-340 with EAGLE 57 moored along port side.
• 1805, Shannon, W.J., left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 9

• 0200, Shannon, W.J. returned from shore patrol duty.

June 10

• 1300, Lt. (jg) L.M. Trout left ship to report to Naval Training School, Seattle, Washington for one week gunnery instruction.
• 1800, Shannon, W.J. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 11

• 0200, Shannon, W.J. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 0645, Rickets, C.E. left ship with orders to report to Officer in Charge, Damage Control School, Manchester, Washington, for six day course in damage control.
• 0650, Crisp, O.E. left ship to report to Officer in Charge, NTSch (ammunition handling), Lake Union, Seattle, Washington for 14 days instruction. Ridgeway, R.F., left ship to report to Officer in Charge, NTSch, Lake Union, Seattle, Washington, for instruction in operation and maintenance of the twin 40mm gun.
• 1730, Bohjanen, O.S. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 12

• 0200, Bohjanen, O.S. returned from shore patrol duty.

June 13

• 1800, Neel, B.W. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 14

• 0240, Neel, B.W. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 1315, Berry, W.F., laceration, right thumb while engaging in ship’s work, in line of duty, given first aid treatment by CPhM.
• 1535, Lt. Cmdr. Green from BuShips came aboard to take picture of cracked block on #2 main enging.
• 1715, Lt. Cmdr. Green left the ship.
• 1800, Shannon, W.F. left ship for shore patrol duty.

Friday, June 15, 1945

• 0225, Shannon, W.F. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 0930, D.K. Van Ness, Lt. (jg) came aboard from small craft disbursing office to pay the crew.
• 1000, pay completed, Lt. (jg) Van Ness left the ship.
• 1620, Ridgeway, R.F. returned aboard having completed a course of instruction on 40mm at Naval Training School.
• 1630, Breasted USS EAGLE 57 out and U.S. Army Barge Derrick 503 tied up along port side.
• 1845, removed #2 main engine from forward engine room, placed same on barge.
• 1910, Chiodi, Domenic, BM2c reported aboard for duty.
• 2305, U.S. Army Derrick 503 left from alongside and USS EAGLE 57 breasted in.

Saturday, June 16, 1945

• 2040, Berry, W.F. MoMM3c reported flooding in aft crews compartment C-201-A and engine stores C-303-A. The ship by this time had taken about a 3 degree list to starboard.
• 2042, secured all fresh and flushing water to the ship. The flooding stopped upon securing the water. The extent of the flooding known at this time was compartment C-303-A complete and six inches on the starboard side of C-201-A.
• 2045, two handbillies were broken out to pump out the compartment.
• 2050, began pumping compartment. Also broke out electric submersible pump.
• 2053, began pumping with submersible pump also.
• 2100, the acting Commanding Officer was reached at his apartment in Seattle.
• 2110, Lt. A.G. Lucky, Acting Commanding Officer, reached the ship.
• 2115, discovered compartment C-303 1/2-M was also flooded and draining into C-303-A. All three compartments being pumped simultaneously.
• 2210, all water pumped out.
• 2212, discovered the cause of flooding due to opening for air test purposes (by the yard without notification of ship) of sprinkling control2 valve 3-81-2 without closing 3-85-1, which was locked open. This resulted in progression flooding (as valves and watertight doors were not dogged during overhaul) of C-303 1/2-M, C-303-A and C-201-A. Estimated time of opening valve 3-81-2: 1600 hours
• 2215, turned all hands to salvaging stores. Turned on fresh and flushing water. There was no damage in C-201-A or C-303 1/2-M

Sunday, June 17, 1945

• 1000, completed drying of engineers stores. Most of gear not damaged. Actual damage not yet determined.
• 1730, Neel, B.W. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 18

• 0225, Neel, B.W. returned aboard from shore patrol duty.
• 0830, Hayes, LeRoy and Bishop, Donald left ship for temporary duty to report to receiving station, PSNY for further transfer to CVE pre-commissioning school.
• 1745, Shannon, W.J. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 19

• 0125, Shannon, W.J. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 1605, Wainman, R.L. cut right index finger while engaging in handling stores. Two stitches were taken in it at Yard Dispensary and first aid treatment give.
• 1730, Neel, B.W. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 20

• 0205, Neel, B.W. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 1800, Shannon, W.J. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 21

• 0240, Shannon, W.J. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 0730, Albrecht, Harlan K, Larson, Vernon J., Fluharty, George W., Clayborne, Billy D., Angle, John M., Jablonski, Bernard R., Honaker, Howard L., and Campbell, Alfred L. left ship for temporary duty at fire fighting school, Manchester, Washington.
• 1340, USS Roustabout YO53 came along side, colliding port quarter to port quarter with this vessel. The following memorandum received from USS Roustabout YO53 regarding collision quote “while engaged in mooring operations under tow of the Foss Launch and Tug Company tugs RUSTLER and WALLACE FOSS, the USS Roustabout, being piloted at the time by Lt. Cmdr. Thomas E. Marshall, collided port quarter to port quarter with the USS Defense AM-317. Damage to the USS Roustabout consisted of three bent railing stanchions. Damage to the USS Defense consisted of two bent minesweeping cranes, a badly sprung quich launching tray, a badly bent kite, and three bent or broken railing stanchions. There were no personnel casualties to either ship’s crew. Lt Cmdr. Marshall laid the blame to faulty handling of the Wallace Foss and a misunderstanding of his orders to same. Responsibility for and repair of the damage has been accepted by Pacific Mechanical and Electrical Company per CEM Fowler and CM Ellison of the Naval Inspectors office attached to the yard. Officers on duty on the USS Roustabout were as follows: Lt. (jg) E.E. Smith, in charge of the after mooring station, Ens. C.S. Hougham, in charge at the forward mooring station, and Lt. (jg) G.M. Harrison, in charge at the bridge. Lt. Cmdr. Marshall, a member of the Puget Sound Pilots Pool, was at the con on the bridge.”
• 1730, Mustion, G.A. left ship for shore patrol duty.
• 1601, commenced pressure test on fire main and sprinkler system with 180 pounds pressure. Most valves observed to leak slowly.
• 1810, pressure increased to 200 pounds. Most valves leaking slowly.
• 2030, secured from pressure test.

June 22, 1945

• 0250, Mustion, G.A. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 1800, Shannon, W.J. left ship for shore patrol duty.
• 1830, the following men returned aboard ship after having completed fire fighting school: Albrecht, Harlan K, Larson, Vernon J., Fluharty, George W., Clayborne, Billy D., Angle, John M., Jablonski, Bernard R., Honaker, Howard L., and Campbell, Alfred L.

Saturday, June 23, 1945

• 0300, Shannon, W.J. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 1715, Poor, Raymond E. left ship for shore patrol duty.
• 1828, Manny, Robert S., S1c, reported aboard for duty.

June 24

• 1730, Cordell, William D. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 25

• 0205, Cordell, William D. returned from shore patrol duty.

June 26

• 1720, YO53 underway from along our port side.
• 1850, Banks, Spencer T., St3c reported aboard for duty.
• 1940, yard repair barge tied up along our port side.

June 27

• 1800, Poor, Raymond E. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 28

• 0230, Poor, Raymond E. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 1700, Cordell, William D. left ship for shore patrol duty.

June 29

• 0215, Cordell, William D. returned from shore patrol duty.
• 1835, Remington, D.F. sent to Naval Hospital, Seattle, Washington, complaining of severe abdominal pains.

Saturday, June 30, 1945

• 1115, Lee, Calvin E., MoMM1c transferred to Classification Center, San Diego, California. Pay records to be forwarded by registered mail.

May, 1945

Tuesday, May 1, 1945 through Thursday, May 10, 1945
Underway pursuant to ComServRon 10 Representative, Saipan, voice dispatch 210025, and Port Director, Saipan, routing instructions dated 24 April, 1945, enroute Pearl Harbor, T.H., on base course 092 degrees T, 095 degrees P.C.C., making 10 knots (280 RP) on main engines #1 and #2 on starboard shaft. Ship darkened, maintain condition of readiness II-M, S/L radar and sonar watches.

The only excitement during this leg of their journey was on May 7:

• 1136, Made underwater sound contact bearing 020 degrees T, distance 2000 yards.
• 1140, Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to maintain and classify contact.
• 1144, all hands manned general quarters stations
• 1146, put #2 main engine on line
• 1150, changed course to make hedgehog attack
• 1155, gave order to fire hedgehog; failed to fire due to defect in firing circuit
• 1158, commenced second hedgehog run on contact
• 1200, lost contact; searched for contact in immediate area, no results
• 1255, test fired Mk 10 Projector. Fired full salvo of 24 7.5” Projector Charges

Thursday, May 10, 1945

• 1235, Captain has the conn, the Navigator is on the bridge, standing into Pearl Harbor channel on various courses and speeds.
• 1428, moored starboard side to AN-40, berth DE3, Pearl Harbor

Saturday, May 12

• 0845, Pay Clerk Hiat came aboard from Small Craft Disbursing Office and paid officers and crew.
• 0940, Paymaster left ship

Sunday, May 13

• 1745, Hamilton, E.N., 861 13 67, MoMM2c, USNR, reported aboard for duty pursuant to Fifth Convalescent Hospital APO 244 orders dated 6 May 1945. Records not accompanying him; gear had been kept aboard.

Monday, May 14

• 1030, Lieutenant G.W. Capehart left ship on temporary additional duty.
• 1630, Underway with aid of tug pursuant to CTG 18.2 Operation Order 0129-45 dated 13 May 1945, designated as Task Unit 18.2.4. Captain at the conn, Navigator on the bridge, proceeding at various courses and speeds on starboard shaft, standing out Pearl Harbor, enroute to Seattle, Washington.

This leg of the journey continued until May 26. On May 19, Ridgeway, R. F., GM2c was treated for a piece of steel or other foreign matter which could not be removed from left eye, and was secured from duty until May 21, at which time he returned to duty.

Saturday, May 26, 1945

• 0812, moored starboard side to north side pier at Naval Ammunition Depot, Indian Island, Washington, and transferred all Hedgehog and Depth Charge ammunition off the ship.
• 1256, entered degaussing range.
• 1323, completed running degaussing range.
• 1522, anchored in Navy Yard Bremerton, Washington explosive anchorage.
• 1523, Mr. R. E. Wilbur of the U.S. Department of Agriculture came aboard to make agricultural inspection.
• 1537, Mr. Wilbur left the ship. This vessel received clearance receipt from Department of Agriculture; pilot Dunhill left ship. Tug and lighter YF87 came along port side to take ammunition from this vessel.
• 1650, completed discharging ammunition to Naval Ammunition Depot.
• 1657, underway proceeding to Seattle, Washington on various courses and speeds.
• 1840, moored starboard side to dock, Berth 5, Pier 90, Seattle Washington.

Sunday, May 27

• 0934, Lt. (jg) Westcock, pilot, came aboard from operations office 13th Naval District.
• 0935, Underway with Lt. (jg) Westcock at the conn and the Captain and Navigator on the bridge, proceeding to Pacific Electrical and Mechanical Company dock, Lake Union, Seattle, Washington on various courses and speeds.
• 1228, moored starboard side to USS CAPABLE AM-155 at Pacific Electrical and Mechanical Company Dock, Lake Union, Seattle Washington.

Monday, May 28, 1945

• 1010, conference party came aboard.
• 1300, pursuant to 12th Naval District 60T VN of 26 May 1945, Lt. (jg) Louis M. Trout and Lt. A.G. Lucky reported for duty aboard this vessel.
• 1545, USS Capable AM155 got underway from starboard side.
• 1555, moored starboard side to dock.
• 1613, fire in armory caused by smoldering iron. Put out shortly.
• 1630, commenced receiving power from dock.
• 1815, pursuant to 6WSF NTX 231927 of May 1945, the following men reported for duty aboard this vessel from receiving station Puget Sound navy Yard:

Baggeley, A.W., F1c MoMM
Cunningham, T. J., F1c MoMM
Schmutz, M.W., F1c, MoMM
Wood, J.F., F2c
Wyrick, F.E., F2c
Angle, J.M., S2c
Bishop, D.D., S2c
Campbell, A.L. Jr., S2c
Clayborne, B.D., S2c
Crumbaugh, J.L., S2c
Ervin, B.C., S2c
Fluhary, G.W. Jr., S2c
Hayes, L, S2c
Honaer, H.I., S2c
Pymer, S.W., S2c
Wright, R.G., S2c

• 1825, commenced receiving shore steam.

May 30, 1945

• 1130, USS ARDENT AM-340 moored along port side
• 1415, the following men were transferred to RecSta, Bremerton, Washington:

Alexion, C., F1c
Choules, C.O., MoMM2c
Fleming, J.J., SoM2c
Galvin, G.J., RM2c
Guerrero, A., Ck2c
Miller, H.E., S2c (QM)
Propps, W.L., Cox
Lattimore, H.R., St2c
Vigue, J., SC2c

Thursday, May 31, 1945
Ship undergoing overhaul.

• 1512, Williams, Fred, StM2c reported aboard for duty from NRS, Naval Station, Seattle, Washington, sea bags, records, and hammock accompanying.
• 1715, Elizalde, A.L. EM3c assigned temporary additional duty as shore patrol.

April, 1945

April 1, 1945
Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Operation Plan A1-45, in column formation, second ship in Sweep Unit 5, astern of USS CHAMPION (AM-314), in company with Sweep Unit 8, USS ADAMS (DM-27) and USS SHEA (DM-30). OTC in USS ADAMS. Returning to Okinawa Shima from night retirement.

• 0100, changed speed to 12 knots. All hands manned general quarters stations, enemy planes in vicinity. Fired upon enemy aircraft, no plane shot down.
• 0616, commenced firing on enemy aircraft.
• 0617, plane crashed-dived into USS ADAMS (DM-27) and bounced off into the water. Steering casualty to ADAMS.
• 0619, USS ARDENT (AM-340) ordered to stand by ADAMS to render assistance.
• 0620, changed course to 320 degrees T by emergency turn to stay clear of ADAMS which has lost steering control.
• 0632, commenced firing at enemy aircraft.
• 0635, ceased firing; plane disappeared into cloud.
• 0640, sighted plane attempting suicide dive on USS SWEARER (DE-186), about 6,000 yards on starboard bow. Plane did not hit SWEARER but crashed into water.
• 1200, position: Lat 26D-20’ N; Long. 127D-22’ E.
• 1340, stationed special sea details and proceeded on various courses and speeds into harbor in KERAMA RETTO, Okinawa Islands group.
• 1415, Moored alongside USS KISHWAUKEE (AOG-9) port side to and commenced taking on fuel oil.

[Official US Navy History Note: Marines and Army forces land on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, under cover of heavy naval gunfire and air attack. The operation is under the overall command of Adm. R. A. Spruance, Commander Fifth Fleet. Vice Adm. R. K. Turner commands the Joint Expeditionary Force, and the troops are commanded by Lt. Gen. A. B. Buckner, USA.]

April 2, 1945
On patrol in area B-5.

• 0021, all hands manned general quarters stations; enemy aircraft in immediate vicinity.
• 0045, USS ACHERNA (AKA-53) 3500 yards on port beam, hit by enemy suicide plane (a two-engine bomber that passed low overhead the USS DEFENSE according to War Diary) and fire broke out on weather deck. DEFENSE left station to stand-by ACHERNA to render assistance. Closed to about 400 yards but unable to communicate by voice radio.
• [Roy’s Note: the official US Navy History shows the ACHERNA being hit on April 1 – but the DEFENSE deck logs show the ship being hit on the second]
• 0110, ACHERNA brought fire under control, increased speed to about 15 knots and rejoined own formation. [War Diary differs slightly – says name of ship was “ACHEINA”]
• 0126, returned to patrol station.
• 0622, began firing on enemy aircraft. Ceased fire as friendly planes were in line of fire.
• 0911, proceeded to harbor in KERAMA RETTO, Okinawa Island Group.
• 1745, provisions and stores boat alongside.
• 1810, Underway pursuant to orders CTG 52.2, proceeding to screening station A-56 at various courses and speeds on all engines standing out protected anchorage, KERAMA RETTO.
• 1845, commenced firing at unidentified aircraft.
• 1847, ceased firing.
• 2000, entered smoke screen with visibility of about 500 yards, proceeding on various courses and speeds to maneuver safely through groups of ships.

April 3, 1945
Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Operation Pla A1-45, and verbal orders CTG 52.2 of 2 April 1945, patrolling screening station A-56 on base courses 061 degrees T and 241 degrees T, speed 10.5 knots on all engines.

• 0109, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy aircraft in vicinity of Okinawa.
• 0555, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy aircraft in vicinity.

April 4, 1945
Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Operation Pla A1-45, and verbal orders CTG 52.2 of 2 April 1945, patrolling screening station A-56 on base courses 063 degrees T and 243 degrees T, speed 10.5 knots on all engines.

• 0715, commenced patrolling station 2,000 yards southeast of station A-56 upon visual orders of CTG 51.5 represtentative.

April 5, 1945
Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Operation Plan A1-45, and visual orders CTG 51.5, patrolling station A-56 of inner screen on base courses 061 degrees T and 241 degrees T, speed 10.5 knots on all engines.

[Note from Official US Navy History: United States Naval Advanced Air Base, Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, is established. Koiso cabinet in Japan resigns; Admiral Suzuki becomes Prime Minister.


April 6, 1945

[In order to see the exact location of this action, enter these coordinates into Google Earth: 25 49’ N, 126 13’ E]

Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Operation Pla A1-45, and visual orders CTG 51.5, patrolling station A-56 of inner screen on base courses 061 degrees T and 241 degrees T, speed 10.5 knots on all engines.

• 0310, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy aircraft present.
• 0800, joined column formation with USS REQUISITE (AM-109), USS TRIUMPH (AM-323), and USS VIGILANCE (AM-324), on course 160 degrees T, speed 15 knots. OTC is CominDiv 13 in REQUISITE.
• 0802, changed speed to 5 knots and commenced streamin “o” type and acoustic minesweeping gear.
• 0834, all minesweep gear streamed, 300 fathoms port and starboard sweep wire, 40 ft. float pendants, 18 fathoms depressor wire, hammer box at 30 feet.
• 0906, USS SPEAR (AM-322) joined formation.
• 0907, entered area D-2 and commenced scheduled sweeping operations on various courses conforming to contour of area.
• 1428, completed scheduled sweep of assigned area D-2. Made preparations to recover minesweeping gear. Sweep results negative.
• 1509, set course to 210 degrees T, speed 15 knots, proceeding independently awaiting orders from CTG 51.5.
• 1536, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy aircraft attacking various units at beachhead.
• 1800, all hands manned general quarters stations. AA gunfire seen coming from TF 54 which bore 270 degrees T, distance 6 miles.
• 1802, increased speed to flank with radical changes of course, enemy aircraft in large numbers seen to be coming in from northwest. One plane made suicide run on this vessel and was shot down by 20mm fire. (the War Diary states that this was a Val)
• 1804, speed reduced to standard and ship steadied on northerly heading.
• 1805, two suicide planes (Vals) commenced runs from the east on this vessel and were taken under heavy fire by starboard battery. Speed increased to flank with radical changes of course. One plane pulled out, other plane crashed into flying bridge and superstructure.
• 1806, all engines stopped until report that only minor damage had been received on the bridge.
• 1807, speed increased to flank with radical changes of course as another plane was observed making a run on this vessel from west. Plane was taken under fire by starboard battery but crashed 40mm platform. Course was changed to westward to close with TF 54 as still more enemy planes were observed in the air and this vessel had received some damage from shrapnel.

Roy’s Note: I noticed that the planes that attacked at 1805 came out of the east and were fired upon by the starboard batteries. Two minutes later, another plane was observed coming out of the west, which was also taken under fire by the starboard batteries. I assume that the “radical changes of course” and the engine stoppage combined to turn the DEFENSE from a northerly heading to a southerly one. Those poor guys on the starboard side of the ship must have thought the Captain was trying to get rid of them.

• 1815, reduced speed to standard and commenced to close with USS NEWCOMB (DD-586) and USS LEUTZE (DD-481) which had received major damage and were burning.

• 1820, commenced to pull along starboard side of LEUTZE, but received orders from Commanding Officer of LEUTZE to pick up survivors. Commenced maneuvering as instructed.
• 1825, vessel violently shaken by explosion of depth charges from one of damaged vessels nearby.
  
• 1853, BOWELL, James Padelford, SM3c, USNR, went over the side and rescued WALKER, H., StM1c, a non-swimmer, whom he brought back to the ship. BOWELL went over the side a second time, taking two life preservers to five men, two of whom were seriously burned. Bowell is to be commended for his actions done in the face of possible combined air attacks and darkness coming on rapidly. He materially speeded the recovery of survivors without thought of himself.
• The following ammunition was expended during the attack: 45 rounds 3”/50 cal; 550 rounds 40mm; 3600 rounds 20mm.
• Material damage suffered was as follows: Hull: Seven holes in starboard side near and above waterline varying in size from 2” in diameter to 2” x 6”; ten holes in superstructure varying in size up to 6” in diameter; one shroud starboard side almost severed; life lines and stanchions on forecastle deck carried away; two holes in ship’s boat. Ordnance: One 40mm gun and one 20mm gun damaged; two 40mm ready boxes bent out of shape and covers ripped off; one Mk 14 sight damaged beyond repair; six 20mm magazines damaged; 3”/50 cal. Operating handle not functioning properly. Radio: all high frequency antenna carried away.
• 1900, received orders from ComDesRon 55 in USS PORTERFIELD (DD-682) to take LEUTZE in tow.
• 2005, LEUTZE secured astern with 1,000 fathoms of towing cable. Commenced slow acceleration on all engines on course 280 degrees T.

REVISED FORM FOR REPORTING A.A. ACTION BY SURFACE SHIPS

Location of ship: Lat. 25° 49’N Long. 126° 13’E
Time Zone: 1600 Date: Friday, April 6, 1945, ELD
1. Surprise attack? Yes Day or Night: Day
2. Method picking plane up: Naked eye
3. Range plane was picked up: 5 miles
4. Total number of planes observed: Many – 20 to 30. Type: Fighters, bombers and torpedo
5. Number of planes attacking own ship: 4 Type: Believe all were Vals
6. Number of planes taken under fire by own ship: 4 Type: Vals
7. Speed and altitude of approach in knots and feet: 100-120 K; 100 feet
8. Number of guns firing – by caliber: 1 – 3”/50, 8 – 20MM, 2 – 40MM
9. Ammunition expended – by caliber and type: 45 rounds 3”; 550 rounds 40MM; 3600 rounds 20MM
10. Percent service allowance expended: 18%; 11.5%; 7%
11. Method of control: Optical Method of spotting: Tracer
Method of ranging: Estimated Method of firing: Rapid fire
12. Approximate time-tracking to first shot: None
13. Approximate time of first hits: 1603
14, Approximate time first shot to last shot: 7 minutes
15. Approximate position angle open fire: #1 – 10° bearing 270° relative; #2 – 20° bearing 090° relative; #3 – 20° bearing 050° relative; #4 – 20° bearing 050° relative.
16. Approximate position angle cease fire: #1 – 0° bearing 030° relative; #2 – crashed into ship forward; #3 – crashed into ship aft; #4 – not known.
17. Approximate bearing first shot: 270° relative
18. Approximate bearing last shot: 090° relative
19. Approximate range of first shot: 5,000 – 6,000 yards Altitude of plane: Not over 100 feet.
20. Approximate minimum range aircraft approached: #1 – 150 feet; #4 – 500-700 yards.
21. Approximate range of last shot: ---- Altitude of plane: ---
22. Approximate altitude of bomb release: --- Size of bomb: ---
23. Approximate range of torpedo release: --- Size of torpedo: ---
24. Number of hits on ship by bombs: none By torpedo: --- Was ship strafed: Yes, by plane #2 Size gun: 25 cal.
25. Number near bomb misses damaging ship: none
26. Planes shot down: SURE SURE PROBABLE DAMAGED
(by own ship) (assist)
those attacking own ship: 3
Other aircraft
27. Best estimate of size gun or guns responsible for each “sure”: Plane #1 by 20MM; planes #2 and #3 crashed.
28. Performance of ammunition: Excellent
29. What failures in material occurred in this action?: None
30. Sketch:
(a) Indicate direction of attack relative to ship’s head
(b) Show relative postion of sun
(c) Indicate own maneuvers.





The USS DEFENSE was patrolling Station A-35 on a northwesterly course and a Task Force of capital ships was retiring for the night about six miles to the westward. As this vessel’s Air Search radar was inoperative the first indication of attack was the observation of AA fire from that Force. Many planes were observed flying in all directions. DEFENSE changed to a northerly course parallel that of the Task Force. Plane number 1 came in from the north to about half way between the Task Force and DEFENSE and then turned sharply toward DEFENSE and stared its run. When the run started range was about 5,000 yards and an altitude about 100 feet. Fire was opened with all guns that could bear, 1 – 3”/50, 4 – 20MM and 1 – 40MM (single mount). At about 1,000 yards and 50 feet altitude the plane pulled up sharply and passed directly over DEFENSE at right angles to its base course. DEFENSE was maneuvering at about 17 knots. Fire was taken up by the starboard battery and the plane was seen hit by 20MM fire just under the cockpit. The plane turned left into a dive and splashed about 700-800 yards on the starboard bow. The pilot did not bail out and no explosion seemed to take place when hitting the water.
Plane number 2 had started its run probably before plane number 1 had splashed. It came in from the northeastward and was not observed until probably less than 2,500 yards, altitude 50-75 feet. The starboard battery opened fire but the plane crashed the bridge structure forward, on the starboard side. Oil, gasoline, and parts of the plane were all over the ship. Most of the pilot was in the flying bridge and his parachute hung from the yard arm. There might have been a second pilot in the plane as another parachute that went across the ship hit the water on the port side and opened. Where the engine went, or the explosive if one was carried, is not known. The only fire started inside the flying bridge and was stamped out before fire extinguishers arrived. A splash on the starboard side, large enough to put water on the bridge, indicated that there might be hull damage so the vessel was slowed for investigation. Before a report could reach the bridge planes number 3 and 4 were seen forward on the starboard bow, already having started their run. DEFENSE went back to flank speed. These planes came in together wing-tip to wing-tip. The starboard battery opened fire. Plane number 3 must have crowded plane number 4 because the latter turned off. Plane number 3 continued in and crashed the 40MM platform just aft of #2 stack. Again much of the plane was left on deck but most of it, including the heavy parts, went over the port side. There was no explosion and no fire.

G. Abbott,
Lt. Comdr., USNR,
Commanding Officer.

[ROY’S NOTE: According to eyewitness reports, plane number 2 actually exploded at a range of 25-30 yards, spattering shrapnel, fuel, seawater and pieces of the unfortunate pilot all over the front of the DEFENSE. The “second pilot” landed in the ocean on the port side of the ship and was promptly machine-gunned, even though he was probably dead when he hit the water.]

April 7, 1945
Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Operation Plan A1-45, with USS LEUTZE (DD-481) in tow at 2,000 yards, proceeding to KERAMA RETTO ANCHORAGE, Okinawa Group, on base course of 197 degrees T, speed 5 knots, being screened by USS PORTERFIELD (DD-682)

• 0634, passed through nets into KERAMA RETTO ANCHORAGE.
• 0719, Lying to in vicinity of USS CRESENT CITY (APA-21) awaiting boats to transfer injured men. Lieutenant Commander WORDEN, (MC), USNR, CominPac staff Medical Officer, came aboard to assist in transfer of patiets.
• 0741, Boats from USS CRESENT CITY came alongside and men were transferred for medical treatment.
  

• 1400, transferred the survivors from USS NEWCOMB (DD-586) to USS WAYNE (APA-34) for disposition.

[Roy’s Note: The Japanese battleship YAMATO is sunk in the East China Sea on this day.]

April 8, 1945
Anchored in Berth K-84, KERAMA RETTO ANCHORAGE, Okinawa Gunto, Nansei Shoto.
1203, Underway pursuant to CTG 52.2 dispatch proceeding out KERAMA RETTO ANCHORAGE on various courses and speeds. Captain at the conn, Navigator on the bridge, to conduct a channel sweep as ordered in Appendix Four to Annex “F” of CTF 51 Operation Plan A1-45. Ships conducting the sweep, USS DEFENSE (AM-317), OTC, USS EXECUTE (AM-232), USS FACILITY (AM-233), USS HAZARD (AM-240).

• 1354, completed streaming “O” type gear, port and starboard with 300 fathoms sweep wire, 60 foot float pendants, 30 fathoms depressor wire.
• 1828, completed recovery of gear. Sweep results negative.
• 1912, changed course to 025 degrees T and commenced patrolling in channel east of TOKASHIKI SHIMA and south of MAE SHIMA on course 025 degrees T and 205 degrees T.

April 9, 1945
Patrolling singly on station in channel channel east of TOKASHIKI SHIMA and south of MAE SHIMA on course 025 degrees T and 205 degrees T.

• 1038, entered KEREMA RETTO ANCHORAGE, maneuvering on various courses and speeds to anchorage in vicinity of USS TERROR (CM-5).
• 1415, DANGELO, E. J., MoMM2c, went over the side in shallow water diving outfit to investigate possible seam ruptures at various parts of the ship.
• 1445, completed diving operation.

April 11, 1945

• 0800, reported to Commander L.S.T Flotilla 6 pursuant to ComTaskFor 51 dispatch 100710 for duty in Task Unit 51.29.13. ComTaskUnit, L.S.T. Flotilla 6 in LCI 1080. ComDesRon 45 in USS BENNETT (DD-473) as screen commander with following escorts: USS WESSON (DE-184), USS SC-1049, USS SC-1314, USS YMS 398, and USS YMS 311. This vessel in station 51809 screen, escorting LST Flotilla 6, on base course 205 degrees T, base speed 7.5 knots.
• 1200, with Point Chiyama bearing 085 degrees T, distance 13 miles, took departure for Siapan Island, Mariannas Islands, on course 148 degrees T, speed 7.5 knots.

April 12, 1945
Underway enroute to Saipan, Mariannas Islands, pursuant to CTG 51 secret dispatch 100710 and ComLSTFlot 6 Movement Order A6-45, in Task Unit 51.29.13 escorting various units of LST Flotilla 6 in station 5180 in cruising formation #1 on base course 118 degrees T.

[Note from Official US Navy History: President Franklin D. Roosevelt dies; Vice President Harry S. Truman succeeds to the Presidency.


April 13, 1945

• 1337, half mast colors in mourning for the death of the President of the United States.

April 14, 1945

• 1500, assembled all hands at general quarters stations to pay tribute to the late President Roosevelt with five minutes of silent prayer, colors half mast.

April 17, 1945

• 1115, land sighted bearing 120 degrees T.
• 1527, sighted small waterspout bearing 192 degrees T, distance 6 miles.
• 1709, Passed through net gate of Siapan Harbor, Saipan, Mariannas Islands.
• 1737, Anchored in Saipan Harbor.

April 23, 1945

• 0930, Captain held mast and assigned the following punishment: Miller, H. E., S1c; Charge – asleep on watch; Punishment – distrated to S2c.

April 24, 1945

• 1745, Underway pursuant to Commander Service Squadron TEN Representative Siapan, Voice Dispatch 210025, and PD Saipan, routing instructions of 24 April 1945, on route to Pearl Harbor.

April 25 – 30, 1945

• Proceeding singly from Saipan to Pearl Harbor.

March, 1945

March 1, 1945

• 1123, all engines stopped; lying to off of Iwo Jima awaiting further instructions subsequent to USS ARDENT (AM-340) reporting to Commander Task Force 51.
• 1650, Sergeant Apone and 11 Marines disembarked in boat #2, ACG-10.
• 1745, commenced patrolling area C11 on courses 317 and 137 degrees T.

[From War Diary: Operating as part of the antisubmarine screen through March 7]

[From Official U.S. Navy History: Aircraft from fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) attack enemy ground installations, aircraft, and shipping in the Okinawa area, Ryukyu Islands.]

March 7, 1945

• 1421, formed column formation with USS CHAMPION (AM-314), USS DEVASTATOR (AM-318) and this ship, in that order, distance 500 yards, course 205 degrees T, speed 5 knots.
• 1604, took departure from Iwo Jima with Minami Iwo Jima bearing 144 degrees T, distance 18 miles. Set course 205 degrees T, speed 12.5 knots on all engines proceeding to Ulithi, Caroline Islands pursuant to CTG 51 dispatch #061715, in company with USS CHAMPION (AM-314), USS DEVASTATOR (AM-318) USS SKIRMISH (AM-303), USS SIGNET (AM-302), USS STAUNCH (AM-307) as Task Unit 51.29.13. Cominron 12 and OTC in USS SKIRMISH (AM-303).

March 10, 1945

• 1540, Landfall, Ulithi, Caroline Islands, 230 degrees T, distant 12 miles.
• 1647, Secured SC radar, passed signal tower, Asor Island, Ulithi Islands of the West Caroline Islands abeam to starboard at distance of 1500 yards and proceeded in column on various courses and speeds following the OTC in USS SKIRMISH (AM-303) to enter the harbor of the Ulilthi Islands.
• 1727, entered Mugai channel.
• 1906, moored starboard side to USS DEVASTATOR (AM-318) in berth 261, Southern Anchorage, Ulithi Atoll, Caroline Islands.

[Roy’s Note: The DEFENSE remained at various berths at Ulithi Atoll through March 16. They are waiting for their turn at dry-dock for inspection of their port strut bearing.]

[From Official US History: 03/11 Sun. United States naval landing craft ferry Army troops across the Rhine River at the Remagen bridgehead, Germany; this operation continues throughout March 1945.

[Roy’s Note: Remember the movie named "The Bridge at Remagen"?]

March 13, 1945

• 1640, Ensign O'DELL (sc) USNR came aboard from USS McCOMB to pay crew.
• 2025, Ensign O'DELL left the ship.

March 14, 1945

• 1635, received ammunition resupply consisting of the following: 25 rounds 3"/50 AP SPDN; 25 hand fragmentation hand grenades; 1800 20mm HEI; 900 HET; 80 40mm APT.

March 16, 1945

• 1034, entered floating dry dock (AFDL32) berth #9 pursuant to CTG 52.3 dispatch #140051 of March, 1945.
• 1107, keel rested on keel blocks.

[From Official US Navy History: Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, is declared secured.]

Stan Frosh- "In one of the pictures is Bowser and a female we picked up for him in Japan that gave him some kind of bad disease. When we got back to San Diego we had Bowser shipped to the skipper back east. He thought the world of that dog and it slept in his stateroom at the foot of his bed. That ol' dog had a funny quirk - if you threw a piece of food on the deck (any kind - onion, grapefruit, whatever) and acted like you were going to step on it he would growl and bite your foot hard then gobble the food down. It made the Skipper mad and he threatened to court-martial anyone caught doing it.

March 17, 1945

• 0854, cleared sill of dry-dock, all lines off the ship. Underway on all engines at various courses and speeds, Captain conning, proceeding to southern anchorage.
• 1033, moored port side to starboard side of IX-118 for fueling.
• 1312, moored port side to USS LIGNITE (IX-162) for provisions.

March 18, 1945

• 0814, moored port side to starboard side of USS CINNABAR (IX-163) for supplies.
• 1833, moored starboard side to port side of USS WEIHAWKEN to take on board minesweep gear.
• 2016, anchored in Ulithi Atoll, Caroline Islands bearing 065 degrees T; left tangent of Feitabrel Island bearing 098 degrees T, left tangent of Lossau Island bearing 032 degrees T in 13 fathoms of water.

March 19, 1945

• 1015, Thompson, John M. Jr. #936-95-02 STM USNR reported aboard for duty pursuant to ComSerPac Ltr #3898, dated 4-19-44, with baggage and necessary transfer papers from Commander, Service Squadron Ten.
• 1440, underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac operation plan A1-45, Annex "F" and ComTaskGroup 52-2 movement order 3-45 proceeding out Ulithi Atoll on various courses and speeds.
• 1830, took departure for OKINAWA SHIMA with left tangent of Falolop Island bearing 254.5 degrees T, distance 6.6 miles. OTC in USS TERROR (CM-5)

[From Official US Navy History: March 21, 1945: Japanese aircraft make first known operational use of piloted bombs in unsuccessful attack against Admiral Mitscher's fast carrier task force.

March 23, 1945

• Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac operation plan A1-45, Annex "F" and ComTaskGroup 52-2 movement order 3-45. CTG 52.2 in USS TERROR (CM-5) is OTC. In special cruising formation #11, second ship in column in Sweep Unit 5 with the USS CHAMPION (AM-314) as guide. On base course 310 degrees T, speed 14 knots.
• 0040,, 100 K.W. generator in forward engine room broke down causing loss of power to starboard shaft; sheered out of column to the left.
• 0045, Repairs made to 100 K.W. and full power back on starboard shaft; commenced regaining position in column.
• 1300, received mail from USS CHAMPION (AM-314).
• 1655, Hendershot, G.R., S 1/C slipped on wet deck and cut right hand, given first aid by pharmacist's mate and returned to duty, not result of own misconduct.

[War Diary Note: at 2325, all hands manned battle stations; flash red, control yellow. Enemy aircraft closed within two miles and crossed ahead of formation]

[From Official US Navy History: Aircraft of fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) commence daily strikes against the enemy on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands.]

March 24, 1945

• 0552, changed course to 328 degrees T by turn movement, taking standard distance of 1,000 yards in line formation with MinDiv 10 less USS CHIEF (AM-315) and USS COMPETENT (AM-316).
• 0555, made all preparations to stream minesweeping gear.
• 0607, starboard gear streamed.
• 0612, port gear streamed.
• 0642, all "O" type gear streamed to 300 fathoms; depth of sweep 220 feet. Commenced exploratory sweep on southwestern edge of sweep area V-1 off KEREMA RETTO, NANSEI SHOTO.
• 0659, lowered MK 4 (v) acoustic hammer to port and commenced acoustic sweep. USS ADAMS (DM-27) and PC-584 astern as fire support and mine disposal ships.
• 0825, set up degaussing coils.
• 1748, all sweep gear recovered.
• 1822, commenced proceeding at various courses and speeds to rendezvous with CTG 52.2.
• 1925, took station in cruising disposition #15 in task group 52.2, station is second ship in sweep unit 5 in outer left hand columns of AM’s. OTC, CominPac, CTG 52.2 in USS TERROR (CM-5).

[War Diary Note: sweep results negative]

[From Official US Navy History: Battleships (Vice Adm. W. A. Lee) bombard Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands.]

[Roy Note: All minesweeping operations at Okinawa (and probably everywhere else) took place under the cover of intense shore bombardment by the Battleships and other large vessels. I can imagine the constant deafening roar of the guns rumbling across the waves while the minesweepers did their job.]

March 25, 1945

• 0636, commenced streaming "O" type gear, both sides.
• 0733, took station on port quarter of USS CHAMPION (AM-314) in minesweep formation #5 on base course of 050 degrees T.
• 0745, entered area A-1.
• 1730, completed recovery of all sweep gear.
• 1740, sounded the emergency alarm; all hands manned their general quarters stations, friendly aircraft crashed close by.
• 1745, USS ARONWARD (DM-34) reported picking up pilot.
• 1747, secured from emergency stations.

[War Diary Note: sweep results negative]

[From Official US Navy History: Battleships, cruisers, and destroyers (Rear Adm. M. L. Deyo) bombard Kerama Retto and southeast coast of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands; bombardment of Okinawa area continues daily.]

March 26, 1945

• 0610, commenced streaming "O" type gear, both sides.
• 0613, all hands manned general quarters stations — one enemy plane in sight.
• 0617, commenced firing with 40mm on enemy plane — 7 rounds expended, no casualties. Plane shot down by USS ADAMS (DM-27)
• 0740, entered area A-9. This unit operating with Sweep Unit #8 with OTC in USS CHAMPION (AM-314).
• 0850, all hands manned general quarters stations — large caliber (105mm estimated) gun fired on this unit from shore, location unknown.

[War Diary Note: four to six inaccurate splashes observed]

• 1427, assumed guide replacing USS CHAMPION (AM-314) who dropped out of formation to recover fouled gear.

[War Diary Note: at 1505, formation taken under fire by what appeared to be 3" guns from Mae Island. Guns quickly silenced by air cover.]

• 1707, marked three mines swept by ship ahead with smoke floats in order to facilitate location by mine disposal ships.
• 1709, cut one chemical horn moored mine with port gear.
• 1723, minesweeping operations for the day completed.
• 1822, commenced night retirement.
• 1832, large explosion enveloped destroyer bearing 030 degrees T, distant 8500 yards.

[From Official US Navy History: Army forces are landed on Kerama Retto, Ryukyu Islands, by naval attack group (Rear Adm. I. N. Kiland) under cover of naval bombardment and carrier aircraft attack. Army forces are landed at Talisay Point, Cebu, P. I., by naval attack group (Capt. A. T. Sprague) under cover of cruiser and destroyer gunfire and air attack. United States naval vessel sunk: Destroyer HALLIGAN (DD-584), by mine, Okinawa area, 26 d. 10'N., 127 d. 30'E. ]

[Roy’s Note: Since neither the Deck Log or War Diary say anything about going to general quarters because of enemy aircraft until 15 minutes AFTER the nearby destroyer was enveloped by a large explosion, I’m thinking it was the HALLIGAN (sunk by mine) that was seen. According to the Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, it's most definitely the HALLIGAN]

March 27, 1945

• Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac operation plan A1-45, Annex "F" and ComTaskGroup 52-2 movement order 3-45 in column formation astern of USS CHAMPION (AM-314) in company with Sweep Unit 5, on base course 010 degrees T, speed 13 knots on all engines proceeding to rendezvous with T.G. 54.3
• 0035, made rendezvous with TG 54.3, OTC in USS TEXAS. This group assigned to position 3180.
• 0600, made preparations to stream minesweeping gear.
• 0638, all "O" type streamed to 300 fathoms of sweep wire, 60 foot float pendant, 35 fathoms of depressor wire.
• 0710, entered minesweeping area A-9 on course 350 degrees T.
• 0903, cut one mine with starboard gear in area B-5.

[War Diary Note: chemical horn moored mine]
[Roy's Note: See my "Mine Warfare" page for an explanation of what a chemical horn moored mine is]

• 0916, cut one mine with starboard gear in area B-5. .

[War Diary Note: chemical horn moored mine]

• 1135, cut one mine with port gear in area B-5. .

[War Diary Note: chemical horn moored mine]

• 1600, starboard sweep gear parted.
• 1610, commenced recovery of sweep gear.
• 1627, hove to in direction of starboard float distant 2,000 yards.
• 1638, all "O" type port gear clear of water; completed recovery of remaining 150 fathoms of starboard sweep wire. Proceeding to pick up starboard float; Captain at the conn.
• 1738, recovered float; remaining gear snagged on bottom; lost 6 MK 11 cutters, 1 MK 9 cutter, 1 paravane and bridle, 100 fathoms of sweep wire and 2 60 foot float pendants. All gear clear of water.

[War Diary Note: Commenced night retirement in company with Task Unit 52.4.4. OTC in USS ADAMS.]

March 28, 1945

• 0545, made preparations for streaming minesweeping gear.
• 0620, commenced firing at various enemy planes in vicinity; 14 planes sighted, 3 shot down.

[War Diary Note: shot down by Task Units 52.4.1 and 52.4.4]

• 0653, commenced streaming "O" type gear, both sides.
• 1220, commenced recovery of port and starboard "O" type gear.
• 1330, fell in astern of USS CHAMPION (AM-314) proceeding to duty in area C-2.
• 1450, commenced streaming port "O" type gear.
• 1730, commenced firing 20mm guns and 30 cal. rifle at two drifting floats; 16 rounds 30 cal. and 420 rounds 20mm expended.
• 1901, completed formation of night retirement units.
• 2003, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy aircraft in vicinity.

[War Diary Note: 4 planes closed to within 4000 yards]

• 2312, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy aircraft in vicinity.

[War Diary Note: 1 plane closed to within 1500 yards]

March 29, 1945

• 0018, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy planes in vicinity.

[War Diary Note: 0022, opened fire on one enemy plane.]

• 0044, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy planes in vicinity.
• 0310, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy planes in vicinity.
• 0725, commenced streaming "O" type minesweeping gear.
• 0757, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy planes in vicinity.
• 1043, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy planes in vicinity.
• 1917, completed formation of night retirement units.
• 2245, all hands manned general quarters stations, enemy planes in vicinity.
• 2250, USS ADAMS (DM-27) commenced firing on enemy plane and shot it down. This vessel commenced firing at second plane and assisted USS CHAMPION (AM-314) in shooting it down.

March 30, 1945

• 0600, commenced streaming port and starboard "O" type gear.

[War Diary Note: 0709, all hands manned battle stations; enemy planes in vicinity
1802, sweep completed, results negative
1917, Task Unit 52.4.1 commenced night retirement]

March 31, 1945

• 0809, commenced streaming "O" type minesweeping gear.
• 1333, drifting mine destroyed by PC-584 2000 yards off starboard quarter.
• 1642, completed recovery of minesweeping gear.

February, 1945

February 1, 1945

• Underway pursuant to CDS 63 secret speed letter 003 dated 25 Jan 1945 and ComPhibsPac Operation Order A25-44, escorting transport group Able in position 4030 of inner antisubmarine screen. On base course 255 degrees T, speed 14.5 knots. O.T.C. in USS AUBURN (AGC-10), screen commander in USS VAN VALKENBURG (DD-656).
• 1800, changed time to zone minus 12, retarded clocks 30 minutes and changed date to 2 FEBRUARY, 1945.

February 5, 1945

• 1152, commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds entering Eniwetok Harbor and Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands.
• 1337, anchored in berth 522.
• 1600, moored starboard side of USS BEAGLE (AO-112), berth 379, for fueling.

February 7, 1945

• 0550, made preparations for getting underway.
• 0620, underway pursuant orders ComTaskGroup 96.3 out anchorage area for assigned antisubmarine patrol duty.
• 1349, Transport Group commenced forming disposition 3AL2 on base course 105 degrees T.
• 1719, proceeding to station 4030. On course 282 degrees T.

February 9, 1945

• 0046, changed course to 332 degrees T and P.G.C. by emergency turn movement due to underwater sound contact by USS VAN VALKENBURG.
• 0120, resumed base course of 282 degrees T and P.G.C.

February 11, 1945

• 0315, made radar land fall 305 degrees T, distance 45 miles.
• 0738, left convoy and proceeded to assigned screening station as ordered by ComDesron 63.
• 0810, arrived on assigned patrol station and commenced patrolling on courses 338 degrees T and 158 degrees T.
• 0838, sighted drifting whale boat, changed course to 070 degrees T to investigate.
• 0911, took whale boat in tow; proceeding into Siapan Harbor to deliver to Port director as ordered by CDs 63. Returned to patrol area.
• 1647, ceased patrolling area 21 and proceeded to report to ComMinRon 1 as ordered by ComDesRon 63. 2111, anchored port side to USS WABASH (AOG-4) for fueling, Tinian Harbor.

February 13, 1945

• 1431, underway pursuant CTU52.3.18 movement orders CominPac 1-45 of 10 February 1945, proceeding out of Tinian Harbor on various courses at various speeds to cover sortie of Task Unit 52.3.18. 1615, took position #7 of outer antisubmarine screen, Minecraft Cruising Disposition MD-1, screening Task Unit 52.3.18; OTC in USS TERROR (CM-5); Screen Commander in USS HOPKINS (DMS-13). Base course 271 degrees T.

February 16, 1945

• Task Unit 52.3.18 en route to Iwo Jima.
• 0509, Sweep Unit FOUR detached to stream gear and proceed to objective.
• 0530, arrived off the coast of Iwo Jima.
• 0745, Commenced sweeping in assigned area "5" on courses 060 degrees T and 240 degrees T. This task unit is named 52.3.5, and is composed of the USS Champion (AM-314), USS Devastator (AM-318), USS Ardent (AM-340) and the USS Defense. Task Unit Commander is in the USS Champion.
• 1040, commenced firing at targets of opportunity on beach.
• 1050, ceased firing.
• 1328, port sweep wire parted - veered out of formation into swept waters and commenced recovery of wire.
• 1431, recovered lost port-side gear by sweeping with starboard gear and lying to in order to join sweep unit four upon completion of sweep.
• 1750, proceeded with USS Champion to form screen on USS Estes
  
• COMMENT BY EDITOR: The USS ESTES was the amphibious force flagship for Task Force 52 and the control center for the pre-invasion bombardment. Rear Admiral W. H. P. Blandy, Commander, Amphibious Group One was aboard this vessel

February 17, 1945

• 0736, detached from screening duties and proceeded to sweeping area.
• 1050, commenced sweeping area "8" on courses 325 degrees T and 145 degrees T.
• 1128, commenced firing at beach.
• 1425, ceased firing at beach.
• 1640, relieved of sweeping duties by C.T.G. 52.3.
• 1717, completed recover of minesweeping gear and proceeded to report to C.T.U. 52.3.18 on USS TERROR (CM-5) for duty in connection with towing damaged L.C.I. 441.
• 2027, passed line to L.C.I. 441. Proceeding on course 000 degrees T at 3.5 knots on all engines.

• NOTE: from official US Navy History: Fire support vessels and carrier-based aircraft commence 3-day pre-landing bombardment and bombing of Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands.

February 18, 1945

• Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Operation Order A25-44 and as ordered by CTG 52.3 with USS LCI441 in tow on course 090 degrees T.
• 1055, Made sonar contact 155 degrees T, range 1500 yards; maintained contact on various courses and speeds until arrival of USS STRENGTH (AM-309) who delivered 3 subsequent attacks and assessed contact as doubtful.
• 2120, arrived at Point Crime, assigned rendezvous point.

February 19, 1945

• 1112, cast off tow, which was taken in tow by the USS ARS-9.
• 1210, changed course to 120 degrees T to report to CTG 51.2 for duty.
• 2245, underway pursuant CTF 51 secret dispatch 190440 enroute Siapan, screening Task Unit 51.16.1 (amphibious ships and damaged ships in tow) on base course 211 degrees T.

• NOTE: from official US Navy History: Marines land on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, supported by intensive naval gunfire and air attack. The operation is under the overall command of Adm. R. A. Spruance, Commander Fifth Fleet. Vice Adm. R. K. Turner is the Joint Expeditionary Force Commander and Lt. Gen. H. M. Smith, USMC, commands the Expeditionary Troops. Naval gunfire and air bombing continue to support the troops ashore during this difficult campaign.

February 20, 1945

• Underway pursuant CTF 51 secret dispatch 190440 enroute Siapan, Mariannas Islands, screening task unit 51.16.1 on base course 211 degrees T. OTC in LCI(G) 627, Screen Commander in USS ARDENT (AM-340). Patrolling on station on port flank of convoy. Base speed 4 knots.

February 24, 1945

• 0605, sighted Siapan Island bearing 110 degrees T, distance about 30 miles.
• 1049, passed through anti-torpedo net, Siapan Harbor.
• 1105, anchored in berth L-28, Siapan Harbor.

• NOTE — a violent storm strikes the Iwo Jima area and damages several vessels

February 25, 1945

• 0938, moored port side to USS WABASH (AOG-4) for fueling, Siapan Harbor.
• 1600, Took aboard 12 members of Company "C", Fourth Tank Battalion, Fourth Marine Division from USS LSM-126 for transport to Iwo Jima pursuant to orders from Port Director, Siapan. The USS DEVASTATOR (AM-318) is transporting the other 11 men. Platoon Sergeant Andrew Apone is in charge of these men.
• The other men are: Robert Barhan, ACk; Joseph Bruggeman, Sgt.; Petro Kalimos, Corp.; Louis Kohler, Corp.; Charles McGowan, Corp.; Robert Murray, Pvt.; Uberto Nunez, Pfc.; Earle Palmer, Pfc.; Orville Pfannkuch, Sgt.; Benjamin Staffer, Cpl.; Lyle Stanley, Corp.
• 1755, Landing barge came alongside and delivered approximately 246 sacks of US Mail for delivery to Fleet Post Office, Iwo Jima.

February 26, 1945

• 1737, Underway pursuant to Port Director, Siapan, orders dated 25 February, 1945, in company with the USS ARDENT (AM-340) and the USS DEVASTATOR (AM-318), with the OTC in the USS ARDENT.
• 1805, departed Siapan with Siapan harbor entrance control post bearing 097 degrees T, 5.5 miles distant. Base speed 13 knots.

February 28, 1945

• Underway pursuant to Port Director, Siapan, orders dated 25 February, 1945, proceeding in company with USS ARDENT (AM-340) and USS DEVASTATOR (AM-318) on base course 345 degrees T, speed 10.5 knots.

January 11-31, 1945

January 11

• 0855 — Curtin, Bernard C., Cox, USN transferred to mine assembly base, Pearl Harbor.

January 12

• 0547 — Underway pursuant to ComPhibPac Top Secret Training Order #1-45 of 3 January, 1945, at various courses and speeds on all engines, standing out Pearl Harbor.
• 0740 — commenced screening of sortie group Able of task group 51.12.
• 0816 — On orders from screen commander task group 51.12 proceeded to warn shipping to keep clear of sortie area.
• 0852 — on signal from screen commander took station 4000 in antisubmarine screen, O.T.C. In USS AUBURN. Screen Commander in USS Van Valkenburg (DD656).
• 1130 — Task Group 51.12 in cruising disposition 3 Able Love, on base course 180 degrees T, standard speed 12 knots.
• 1216 — commenced reorienting screen and convoy for firing exercises.
• 1314 — commenced firing.
• 1356 — ceased firing. Commenced forming cruising disposition and reorienting screen.
• 1515 — convoy commenced division tactics — screen remained on proper true bearings and ranges.
• 1655 — commenced zig zagging in accordance with Plan #6 of U.S.F. 10A.

January 13

• Underway pursuant to Training Movement Order ComPhibsPac no. A30-44, screening transport group Able.
• 0552 — released from screening disposition on signal from O.T.C., proceeding independently to assigned operating area on various courses and speeds.
• 0845 — assumed station astern of USS CHAMPION in division Form 18. Division in following; USS CHAMPION, guide, USS DEFENSE, USS ARDENT (AM 340), conducting formation minesweeping.
• 0921 — commenced streaming "O" type gear.
• 0942 — completed streaming of "O" type gear port and starboard and all gear secured for towing, and commenced Division Formation practice sweeping.
• 1109 — commenced recovery of all sweep gear.
• 1357 — commenced streaming "O" type gear on port side.
• 1408 — completed streaming gear.
• 1415 — took assigned position in port echelon formation.
• 1617 — commenced recovery of sweep gear.
• 2035 — all hands manned general quarters stations for night firing exercises.
• 2054 — commenced firing.
• 2100 — ceased firing.

Sunday, January 14, 1945

• Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Training Order A29-44, CominPac Training Order 1-45, on station astern of and following movements of Division Guide in USS CHAMPION, forming up for screening disposition on USS TERROR. OTC in USS TERROR.
• 0830 — released from formation by OTC and commenced maneuvering into column 500 yards astern of column leader.
• 0951 — commenced streaming "o" type minesweeping gear.
• 1010 — completed streaming port and starboard "o" gear and went into starboard echelon formation.
• 1200 — underway as before on various courses and speeds streaming "o" type gear, exercising in division formation in assigned operating area.
• 1514 — Commenced recovery of sweep gear.
• 1538 — all sweep gear on deck — set course 090 degrees T and PGC, speed 5 knots, following in column astern of USS CHAMPION, proceeding to anchorage.
• 1729 — anchored in 15 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain out to starboard anchor in berth 108 William, in Lahiaiana Roads, Maui, T.H.

January 15

• 0557 — Underway pursuant to training movement orders ComPhibsPac A30-44, in company with Mine Division Ten, less Chief and Competent.
• 0654 — commenced streaming "o" type gear to port and starboard.
• 0702 — completed streaming gear to 150 fathoms.
• 0732 — commenced recovering gear, using steerageway speed.
• 0744 — completed recovering gear.
• 0848 — commenced streaming magnetic gear.
• 0850 — switched #4 main engine to special service panel.
• 0914 — all magnetic gear streamed and ready for sweeping.
• 0958 — exercised in fire drill
• 1001 — first stream of water on the fire.
• 1003 — exercised at abandon ship drill.
• 1007 — secured from general drills.
• 1200 — underway in company with USS ARDENT, distance 500 yards, preparing to conduct magnetic minesweeping practice.
• 1224 — commenced pulsing magnetic minesweeping gear.
• 1303 — secured from pulsing magnetic sweep gear.
• 1349 — all magnetic gear clear of the water.
• 1410 — In position #2 position 500 yards astern of USS CHAMPION on base course 215 degrees T. (Returning to anchorage)
• 2312 — anchored in 9 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to starboard anchor, in berth V113, in Lahaina Roads, Maui, T.H., S.O.P.A in USS TERROR, with other various units of Minecraft, Pacific Fleet present.

January 16

• 0650 — Underway pursuant to ComPhibsPac Training Movement order A30-44, in company with Sweep Unit Four, OTC in USS CHAMPION.
• 0841 — Commenced streaming "o" type sweep gear, both sides.
• 0856 — streamed "o" Mk IV V Hammer Box.
• 0923 — commenced sweeping in Division Mine Sweeping Formation, following movements of Division Guide on signal.
• 1235 — all hands manned general quarters stations for firing exercises.
• 1251 — commenced shore bombardment.
• 1257 — ceased shore bombardment, having expended the following ammunition: 21 rounds of 3"/50 Cal., 44 rounds 40MM. BENNIEN, G.R., S2c, received minor cut on left cheek from empty 3"/50 cal. case; treated by pharmacist’s mate and returned to duty, Injury not to own misconduct.
• 1332 — commenced recovery of sweep gear.
• 1353 — completed recovery of all minesweeping gear.
• 1448 — proceeding to area to sweep buoys as directed by CominDiv 10, USS ARDENT following in column.
• 1501 — commenced streaming port and starboard "o" type gear.
• 1509 — completed streaming gear to 300 fathoms.
• 1555 — commenced recovering minesweeping gear, having swept five buoys.
• 1617 — all gear clear of the water.
• 1806 — took station as third ship in column of Division Formation 18.
• 2010 — commenced streaming port "o" type gear.
• 2020 — completed streaming gear to 300 fathoms.
• 2024 — USS ARDENT left formation to recover lost gear. Changed speed to 13 knots to take assigned station in minesweeping formation.
• 2054 — commenced recovering gear.
• 2120 — completed recovery of minesweeping gear
• 2133 — lying to waiting for ARDENT to rejoin formation.
• 2205 — ahead on all engines to join Formation 18 with USS CHAMPION at head of column.
• 2400 — anchored in berth W108, Lahaina Roads, Maui, T.H. In 13 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to starboard anchor.

January 17

• 0850 — underway pursuant to Training Movement Order ComPhibsPac No. A30-44 in company with Minesweep Unit Four less USS DEVASTATOR.
• 1101 — commenced laying smokescreen.
• 1115 — ceased making smoke.
• 1225 — commenced maneuvering in Division Formation on base course 000 degrees T preparatory to forming up for afternoon exercises.
• 1314 — all hands manned general quarters stations for firing exercises.
• 1400 — commenced firing modified day surface spotting practice.
• 1406 — ceased firing.
• 1512 — set course 135 degrees T for assigned rendezvous.
• 1524 — released by OTC, proceeding independently on course 180 degrees T.
• 1531 — at various courses and speeds to assume assigned position in convoy screen.
• 1700 — took station 21 in inner antisubmarine screen of CTG 51.12 cruising disposition 3 ABLE LOVE, on base course 210 degrees T, speed 12 knots. Zig zag plan #1 in use.

January 18

• Underway as before in position #21 of inner antisubmarine screen of T.G. 51.12 in cruising disposition 3AL. Position 4015 of flagship.
• 0542 — ordered to replace escort ship RAIL (DE304) station 9.
• 0630 — USS RAIL returned to station, this vessel ordered to return to former station.
• 0731 — commenced maneuvering to take station for firing exercises.
• 1034 — changed course to 230 degrees T by emergency turn movement, commenced exercising in unit turn movements.
• 1116 — fleet changed course to 345 degrees T and PGC, commenced patrolling on station on USS AUBURN (AGC-10), distance 2500 yards.
• 1154 — made all preparations for entering port; proceeding independently entering Pearl Harbor swept channel, Captain at the conn, Navigator on the bridge.
• 1307 — moored starboard side to USS HALAWA (AOG-12) in berth 4 DE docks, Pearl Harbor, T.H.

January 19

• Moored starboard side to USS HALAWA (AOG-12) in berth 4, DE docks, Pearl Harbor, T.H., with the USS SPECTACLE (AM-306) moored portside.
• 1615 — Pursuant to US Navy Receiving Station, Navy 128 order NM14/P16-4MM serial 113, dated 19 January 1945, NELSON, M.W., 293-19-14, S2c, USNR, and Serial 71/NA dated 19 January 1945, ALEXION, CHRISTOPHER, 204-48-05, MoMM3c USNR reported aboard with bag, hammock, records and transfer papers.

January 20

• Moored starboard side to USS HALAWA (AOG-12) in berth 4, DE docks, Pearl Harbor, T.H., With the USS SPECTACLE (AM-306) moored portside.
• 1500 — SHEA, Melvin E., CQM 402-97-62 transferred to Commanding Officer USNavy Receiving Station Navy 128 for further transfer.

Sunday, January 21, 1945

• Moored starboard side to USS HALAWA (AOG-12) in berth 4, DE docks, Pearl Harbor, T.H., With the USS SPECTACLE (AM-306) moored portside.
• 1200 — FITZPATRICK, Garrett B. Jr. 948-68-88 F1c transferred to RedShip, #128.
• 1540 — commenced loading ammunition.
• 1635 — completed loading ammunition, having received 100 rounds 3"/50 AA SPDN, 7201 F/P, 18 rounds 3"/50 AP SPDN 5825 F/P, 640 rounds 40mm HEITSD, SPDN 6535; 2700 20mm HEI, 1800 20mm HET, 180 20mm BL&P.

January 22

• Moored starboard side to USS HALAWA (AOG-12) in berth 4, DE docks, Pearl Harbor, T.H., With the USS SPECTACLE (AM-306) moored portside.
• 0843 — USS SPECTACLE underway from port side.
• 0850 — USS GAYETY (AM-239) moored along port side.
• 0901 — Ensign Glenn D. NEWTON, USNR reported aboard for duty.
• 1234 — Underway on various courses and speeds, Captain at the conn, Navigator on the bridge.
• 1308 — commenced making runs over degaussing range, Waipio Point, Pearl Harbor channel.
• 1509 — completed degaussing runs.
• 1527 — Moored starboard side to USS ARDENT (AM-340) outboard USS CHAMPION (AM-314) and USS DEVASTATOR (AM-318) at berth C-4 DE docks, Pearl Harbor.

January 23

• Moored starboard side to USS ARDENT, outboard USS CHAMPION and USS DEVASTATOR at berth C-4, DE docks, Pearl Harbor.

January 24

• Moored starboard side to USS ARDENT, outboard USS CHAMPION and USS DEVASTATOR at berth C-4, DE docks, Pearl Harbor.
• 0910 — Commander Mine Squadron FOUR and aids came aboard to conduct personnel and material inspection.
• 0930 — completed personnel inspection, commenced material inspection.
• 1139 — exercised at general quarters and battle problem.
• 1155 — Commander Mine Squadron FOUR and party left ship.
• 1430 — while conducting tests of Mark IV V acoustic hammer under direction of CominPac representative, strap parted, dropping hammer. Recovered hammer which had sustained the following damage: Side plate dented, fore plate dented, and angled out from hammer body.

January 25

• Moored starboard side to USS ARDENT, outboard USS CHAMPION and USS DEVASTATOR at berth C-4, DE docks, Pearl Harbor.
• 0735 — underway for fuel dock, Merrys Point.
• 0900 — moored port side to berth M-2, Merrys Point, outboard of USS LCI 765.
• 1340 — completed fueling ship.
• 1405 — Underway at various courses and speeds proceeding to DE docks, Captain conning.
• 1455 — moored starboard side to USS BANNOCK (ATF-81) in berth C-2.

January 26

• Moored starboard side to USS BANNOCK (ATF-81) in berth C-2.
• 1530 — Lt. Cmdr. J.E. WAGSTAFF was detached with orders to report to nearest Naval District.

January 27

• Moored starboard side to USS BANNOCK (ATF-81) in berth C-2.
• 0530 — Lt. (jg) H.J. LOE was detached and ordered to report to Commander Service Force, Pacific Fleet Duty Officers Pool for duty.
• 0615 — Underway pursuant to CDS 63 Secret Speed Letter serial 003 of 25 January 1945. Proceeding out Pearl Harbor channel.
• 0652 — arrived on station and commenced antisubmarine patrolling to cover sortie of transport group, as ordered in annex B of above speed letter. Also underway in ComPhibsPac top secret order no. A25-44.
• 1250 — assumed position 21 at 4030 from guide in cruising formation 3AL-2, base course 180T and PGC, base speed 3 knots.
• 1621 — changed cruising disposition to firing position.
• 1625 — all hands manned general quarters stations for antiaircraft firing practice.
• 1714 — commenced firing
• 1747 — ceased firing
• 1821 — fire in after engine room.
• 1824 — fire under control.

Sunday, January 28, 1945

• Underway pursuant to CDs 63 secret speed letter serial 003 25 January, 1945. In position 8050 all engines on line, SL radar and antisubmarine sound gear in operation maintaining condition of readiness IIM.
• 0031 — commenced USF 10A zig zag plan #6.

January 29

• Underway pursuant to CDs 63 secret speed letter serial 003 of 25 January 1945. OTC in USS AUBURN (AGC10), escort commander in USS VAN VALKENBURG (DD656).

January 30

• Underway pursuant to CDs 63 secret speed letter serial 003 of 25 January 1945. OTC in USS AUBURN (AGC10), escort commander in USS VAN VALKENBURG (DD656).

January 31

• Underway pursuant to CDs 63 secret speed letter serial 003 of 25 January 1945. OTC in USS AUBURN (AGC10), escort commander in USS VAN VALKENBURG (DD656).

January 1 - 10, 1945

January 1945 saw the DEFENSE and many of her fellow minesweepers on maneuvers in the Pacific waters off the coast of the Territory of Hawaii. The deck log transcription for the first ten days of the month follow. The Captain of the Defense was Lt. Cmdr. Gordon Abbot.

Monday, January 1, 1945.

• Anchored in Berth 122 Nan, Lahaina Roads, Territory of Hawaii.
• 0548 — Underway in company with MinDiv 10, less Chief and Competent, pursuant to CominDiv 10 orders for operations in accordance with CominPac confidential operation order no. 1-44, serial: 01 of 25 December 1944.
• 0855 — held general quarters for antiaircraft gunnery exercises.
• 1035 — secured #1 main engine for repairs.
• 1235 — commenced formation maneuvering on various courses and speeds in company with MinDiv 10.
• 1420 — assumed formation 18, 500 yards astern of USS CHAMPION (AM314) on various courses and speeds.
• 1556 — Anchored in Lahaina Roads, T.H.

Tuesday, January 2, 1945

• 0420 — Underway pursuant to CTG 18.1 confidential operation order 04-44, dated 22 December 1944, in company with MinDiv 10 less USS CHIEF and USS COMPETENT. Captain at the conn, navigator on the bridge. In formation 18, 500 yards astern of CHAMPION.
• 0735 — all hands to general quarters for surface practice firing in area CHARLIE SIX.
• 0907 — commenced firing surface target practice at towed target.
• 0951 — ceased firing exercises.
• 1023 — resumed column formation with CHAMPION as guide.
• 1231 — floating drill mine sighted on starboard bow, distance 1000 yards.
• 1242 — at various courses, speed 10 knots, maneuvering around mine.
• 1252 — destroyed mine by gunfire.
• 1608 — assumed position #2 in antisubmarine screen #53 (USF 10 (A)) escorting USS CHAMPION.
• 1630 — commenced zig zag plan #6.
• 1640 — ceased zig zaging.
• 1700 — assumed position #3 in antisubmarine screen #53.
• 1701 — ceased screening, ordered to form 18 — 500 yards astern of USS CHAMPION.
• 1750 — Ordered by DivMin 10 to fall out of formation and return to anchorage.

January 3, 1945

• 0828 — Underway pursuant to C.T.G 18.1 confidential operation order $4-44, dated 22 December 1944, in company with MinDiv 10 less USS CHIEF and USS COMPETENT.
• 0957 — Exercised crew at fire drill.
• 1004 — secured from fire drill. Handy billies tested.
• 1030 — Exercised at passing mail with USS CHAMPION.
• 1118 — Secured form passing mail exercise. Commenced streaming starboard "O" type sweep gear.
• 1121 — commenced recover of sweep gear for adjustments.
• 1245 — Port and starboard "O" type gear streamed at 150 fathoms.
• 1435 — USS DEVASTATOR came along side to transfer mail from CominDiv 10.
• 1445 — formed column with USS CHAMPION as guide.
• 1448 — commenced screening exercises.
• 1535 — Ceased screening exercises.
• 1604 — Anchored in berth OBOE 122, Lahaina Roads, T.H.

January 4

• 0806 — Hamilton, E.N., MoMM 3/c left ship for shore patrol duty in Lahaina, T.H.
• 0900 — Captain held mast on Larson, V.J. RdM 3/c, reduced in rating to S 2/c.
• 2330 — Made all preparations for getting underway.
• 2355 — underway pursuant to verbal orders CoMinDiv 10, proceeding to Pearl Harbor, T.H. in company with MinDiv 10, less USS CHIEF and USS COMPETENT.

January 5

• Underway on all engines in company with MinDiv 10 less USS CHIEF and USS COMPETENT, CominDiv 10 in USS CHAMPION, proceeding to Pearl Harbor.
• 0855 — Hove to to await channel entry.
• 1056 — made all preparations for entering port on various courses and speeds.
• 1058 — Buoy 2, Pearl Harbor, swept channel abeam to starboard.
• 1114 — net vessel abeam to port.
• 1132 — Moored starboard side to USS REVENGE (AM-110), Berth C-3, DE Docks, Pearl Harbor.
• 1235 — Snyder, R.R., ChMoMM, was placed on was placed on binnacle list; diagnosis D.U. Erysipelas.
• 1750- Lt. (jg) Hollie J. Loe, D-V(S), USNR, reported aboard for duty pursuant to BuPers Order 373702 Pers 31371-ESK-6D, dated 12 December 1944.

January 6

• 0805 — held quarters for muster, no absentees. Published Articles for the Government of the Navy.
• 1455 — Fleming, J.I. SoM 2/c reported aboard for duty along with bag, hammock, transfer papers, records, and accounts.

January 7

• Moored starboard side to USS REVENGE (AM-110) at Berth C-3, D.E. Docks, Pearl Harbor.
• 1100 — Wadell, USN, Pay Clerk from Small Craft Disbursing Office Pearl Harbor, came aboard and paid crew.

January 8

• 1330 — Collins, Ira Vernon, W.T. 1/c USN was transferred to receiving station, Navy 128. Prince, Henry Ralph S 1/c, USN, was transferred to receiving station, Navy 128.

January 9 (Tuesday)

• 1042 — Pride, E.W., F 1/c, USNI reported aboard for duty with bag, hammock, records, and transfer papers.

• 1216 — USS REVENGE got underway from along starboard side.

January 10

• 1230 — Underway on all engines pursuant to visual dispatch from Captain of the yard, Navy yard Pearl Harbor, maneuvering at various courses and speeds through harbor.
• 1300 — Moored alongside USS REVENGE at berth B23.
• 1530 — Propps, W.L. Jr., Cox, USNR reported aboard for duty.

Welcome

DEFENSE

AM - 317: Displacement-890 tons; Length-221'2"; Beam-32'2"; Draft-10'9"; Speed-18 knots; Compliment-105; Class-Auk.

Defense (AM-317) was launched 18 February 1943 by General Engineering and Dry Dock Co., Alameda, Calif.; sponsored by Mrs. A. Duncanfield; and commissioned 10 January 1944, Lieutenant Commander G. Abbott, USNR, in command.

Sailing from San Francisco 24 March 1944 Defense escorted a convoy to Majuro, then swept mines and had escort duty off Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, from 9 to 19 April. She returned to Pearl Harbor the last day of April, and between 8 May and 9 July escorted two convoys, one to Majuro and one to Eniwetok. After conducting experimental minesweeping exercises at Pearl Harbor until 22 July, she got underway for San Francisco, arriving 30 July.

From August through December 1944 Defense provided a variety of services for ships in shakedown off San Diego, and joined in exercises in the Hawaiian Islands. Sailing from Pearl Harbor 27 January 1945, Defense arrived off Iwo Jima 16 February as the preinvasion bombardment of the island began. She patrolled in the antisubmarine screen until late on 19 February, day of the landings, when she cleared to escort unladen transports to Saipan. From 1 to 7 March she again patrolled off Iwo Jima, and on 10 March arrived at Ulithi, staging point for the invasion of Okinawa. Nine days later she was underway for minesweeping operations out of Kerama Retto in preparation for the invasion landings on Okinawa 1 April. During the massive suicide plane attack 5 days after the initial landings, Defense took a group of four attackers under fire. She splashed one, drove one off, and was struck by the other two after they had been heavily damaged by her antiaircraft fire.

Despite her own damage she went to the aid of two other stricken ships, rescuing 50 men from Newcomb (DD-586) and towing crippled Leutze (DD-481) to Kerama Retto.

July and August of 1945 saw the Defense in Seattle undergoing major overhaul operations. She sailed for Japan in late August, and spent the rest of 1945 in Siapan. She served in the Pacific until 6 March 1946 when she cleared Kobe for San Diego, arriving 21 April. Defense was placed out of commission in reserve there 31 May 1946.

Recommissioned 16 February 1952 at Long Beach, Calif., Defense sailed for Yokosuka 7 July, arriving 15 August. Operating in Korean waters in support of United Nations forces, she cleared the waters at Inchon and in the Wonsan-Chongjin-Songjin area of mines until 8 January 1953 when she cleared Yokosuka for Long Beach arriving 5 February. Along with another tour of duty in the Far East from 5 October 1953 to 2 June 1954, Defense operated along the coast of Southern California until she was reclassified MSF-317, 7 February 1955, and again placed out of commission in reserve 15 April 1955.

Defense received two battle stars for World War II service and two the Korean War.