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.