| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S.S. KYNE (DE-744)
c/o FLEET POST OFICE
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIAWAR DIARY
U.S.S. KYNE (DE-744)
4 April 1944
1400 In accordance with orders of the Commandant, Naval Operating Base, Terminal Island, San Pedro, California, this date the ship assigned to Escort Division 32, U.S. Pacific Fleet was placed in full commission with appropriate ceremonies. Commander A. JACKSON, Jr., DE(V-G), USNR assumed command. Ship was moored starboard side to dock at Yard Six (6), Western Pipe and Steel Co., San Pedro, California, keeping zone Plus seven time. The Commanding Officer reported to Commander Operational Training Command Pacific Fleet for duty, provisioning and fitting out.5 April to 11 April 1944 inclusive
Moored as before, engaged in fitting out.12 April 1944
Moored as before. 0740 Got underway and shifted berth to U.S. Navy Deperming Station Dock, berth 92. Captain at the conn. 0806 Moored, and commenced deperming. 1200 Completed deperming. Pilot came aboard. 1230 Got underway, Pilot at the conn. 1300 Moored port side to Pier 57, Naval Supply Depot, San Pedro, California. 1305 Pilot left the ship.13 April 1944
Moored as before. 0815 Commenced loading ammunition, full allowance. 1555 Completed loading ammunition. 1610 Got underway to shift berth, Captain at the conn. 1645 Moored starboard side to dock at yard six (6), Western Pipe and Steel Co., San Pedro, California. Resumed fitting out.14 April 1944
Moored as before. 0819 Got underway, Captain at the conn. and stood out. 1233 Arrived in area JJ18 and commenced structural firing tests. 1409 Completed structural firing test of all guns, result satisfactory. 1808 Moored starboard side to dock at Yard Six (6), Western Pipe and Steel Co., San Pedro, California, resumed fitting out.15 April 1944 to 16 April 1944
Moored as before, fitting out.17 April 1944
Moored as before. 0802 Got underway, Executive Officer at the conn in accordance with Article 919, U.S. Navy Regulations. 0853 Arrived on degaussing range and commenced steaming various courses at various speeds making degaussing calibration runs. 1006 Degaussing completed. 1045 Commenced swinging ship to compensate magnetic compasses. 1214 Completed swinging ship. 1232 Anchored in berth C-7, Los Angeles Harbor, California. 1346 Got underway to shift berth, Captain at the conn. 1429 Moored starboard side to dock at Yard Six (6), Western Pipe and Steel Co., San Pedro, California. Resumed fitting out.
18 April 1944
Moored as before, fitting out.19 April 1944
Moored as before. 0804 Got underway and stood out, Captain at the conn. 0944 Commenced steaming various courses and speeds to Calibrate radio compass. 1540 Completed calibrating radio compass. Set course and speed to return to port. 1613 Re-entered harbor, Executive Officer at the conn in accordance with Article 919, U.S. Navy Regulations. 1733 Moored starboard side to the dock at Yard Six (6), Western Pipe and Steel Co., San Pedro, California. Resumed fitting out.20 April 1944
Moored as before. 0804 Got underway and stood out, Executive Officer at the conn in accordance with Article 919, U.S. Navy Regulations. 1011 Arrived in assigned operating area and commenced running measured mile. 1314 Completed test runs of the measured mile for speed curve calibration. Set course and speed to return to port. 1419 Re-entered harbor, Captain at the conn. 1524 Moored starboard side to dock at Yard Six (6), Western Pipe and Steel Co., San Pedro, California. Resumed fitting out.21 April 1944 to 22 April 1944 inclusive
Moored as before, fitting out.23 April 1944
Moored as before. 1200 Fitting out completed. Reported to Commander Operational Training Command Pacific Fleet for shakedown. 1804 Got underway in accordance with CTG 14.7 movement order 24-44 of 18 April 1944, standing out, Captain at the conn. 1837 Took departure with buoy "A" abeam to port 25 yards. 1905 Made one full speed run over the measured mile in both directions to check calibration. 1922 Completed speed run, set course 231T and pgc, 214pstgc, speed 16 knots. 1941 Reduced speed to 10 knots. 2013 Increased speed to 13 knots. 2015 Commenced zigzagging according to plan #3. 2120 Changed base course to 141T and pgc, 2300 Changed base course to 124T and pgc, 115.5 pstgc. 2320 Passed Wilson Cove Light abeam to starboard.24 April 1944
Steaming as before. 0514 Ceased zigzagging, assumed course 060T and pgc, 047 pstgc. 0530 Increased speed to 15 knots. 0609 Passed buoy "A", San Diego Channel, abeam to port 100 yards. Steaming various courses and speeds, Captain at the conn. 0654 Entered harbor. 0726 Moored to buoy 8, San Diego Harbor. Commenced shakedown. 1330 Personnel inspection. 1505 Got underway, Captain at the conn, and stood out in accordance with CTG 14.1 Op plan 17-44. 1930 Arrived in operating area and commenced sonar exercises, OTC in USS Smalley (DD-565). 2040 Sonar exercise completed. Detached by Smalley, effected rendezvous with USS Selfridge (DD-357), Kyne assumed OTC. operated in assigned areas.25 April 1944
Steaming as before. 0506 Detached Selfridge. 0909 Rendezvoused in area SS22 with USS Crane (DD-109), USS Eagle 32 and USS S-45, engaged in sonar exercises. 2020 Completed sonar exercises. 2300 Effected rendezvous in area II 15 with FAD planes. Operated in assigned areas.
26 April 1944
Steaming as before. 0738 Effected rendezvous with USS PCS 1460 and USS Rockford (PF-48). 0751 Commenced sonar exercises. 1555 Completed exercises 1725 Effected rendezvous with USS Smalley (DD-565) for tactical exercises, OTC in Smalley. Operated in assigned areas.27 April 1944
Steaming as before. 0503 Detached. 0545 Effected rendezvous with USS Rockford (PF-48) and USS S-42 for sonar exercises, OTC in Rockford. 1130 USS Rall (DE-304) joined group. 1602 Completed exercises, detached. 1800 Reported at specified rendezvous with USS San Carlos (AVP-32) and USS Clamour (AM-160) who did not appear. Operated in assigned area.28 April 1944
Steaming as before. 0558 Effected rendezvous with USS Rockford (PF-48), and commenced sonar exercises. 1406 Completed exercises, and set course and speed for port. 1532 Entered San Diego harbor. 1620 Moored to buoy 28, San Diego Bay.29 April 1944
Moored as before.30 April 1944
Moored as before. 0737 Got underway and stood out for exercises in accordance with CTG 14.1 Op plan 18-44. 1022 Effected rendezvous with USS PCS 1396, USS Clamour (AM-160), and USS S-37 and commenced sonar exercises. 2250 Effected rendezvous with USS Rall (DE-304) for tactical exercises, OTC in Kyne.1 May 1944
Attached to Escort Division THIRTY-TWO, United States Pacific Fleet. Keeping zone Plus seven time. Steaming as before. 0626 Effected rendezvous with USS Rockford (PF-48), USS PCS 1404, and USS S-23. OTC in Rockford, and commenced sonar exercises. 1600 Completed exercises, relieved USS Rockford (PF-48) as OTC and commenced escorting USS S-23.2 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0900 Effected rendezvous with USS Rockford (PF-48), Rockford assumed OTC. Commenced scheduled sonar exercises. 1020 USS PC 790 joined group. 1301 Detached. 1339 Effected rendezvous with USS PCS 1396 and USS S-37. Commenced sonar exercises. 1742 Completed exercises; escorting USS S-37.3 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0515 Relieved by USS Fieberling (DE-640). 0735 Effected rendezvous with USS Mascoma (AP-83) for fuelling at sea exercise, OTC in Mascoma. 1134 Completed exercise, formed A/S screen for Mascoma, exercising with USS Smalley (DD-565). 1528 Smalley cast off and USS Sargeant Bay (CVE-83) effected rendezvous, relieved OTC, and commenced fuelling exercises with Mascoma. 1911 USS Crowley (DE-303) and USS Gallup (PF-47) effected rendezvous and ships present commenced tactical exercises.4 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0545 Detached. 0805 Effected rendezvous with USS Fieberling (DE-640) and USS S-37, commenced scheduled sonar exercises. 1545 Detached. 1621 Effected rendezvous with USS S-23 and commenced
escorting USS S-23.5 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0705 USS Rockford (PF-48) effected rendezvous, assumed OTC, and commenced scheduled sonar exercises. 1045 USS PC-790 joined group. 1100 USS YMS 115 joined group. 1230 Completed scheduled exercises, detached, set course and speed for port. 1525 Moored to buoy #25, San Diego Harbor, San Diego, California.6 May 1944
Moored as before.7 May 1944
Moored as before. 0705 Got underway and stood out for scheduled exercises in accordance with CTG 14.1 Op Plan 19-44. 1001 Held towing drills with USS Crowley (DE-303) in assigned area. 1440 Completed towing drills for both ships. 1528 Commenced tactical exercises, OTC in Kyne. 1651 Completed exercises, set course and speed for port. 1750 Moored to buoy #7, San Diego Harbor, San Diego, California.8 May 1944
Moored as before. 1624 Shifted berth to Naval Repair Base, San Diego, California.9 May 1944
Moored as before. 0700 Got underway and stood out for scheduled exercises in accordance with CTG 14.1 Op Plan 19-44, Captain at the conn. 0944 Reported to USS Smalley (DD-565) for scheduled torpedo firing exercises in assigned areas. 1617 Completed exercises and set course and speed for port. 1856 Moored at Naval Repair Base, San Diego, California.10 May 1944
Moored as before. 0600 Got underway and stood out for scheduled exercises in accordance with CTG 14.1 Op Plan 19-44, Captain at the conn. 0850 Effected rendezvous in assigned area and reported to USS Steamer Bay (CVE-87) for duty. 1330 Fired COYCPAC exercise 44F, 28 rounds 3"/50 expended, no casualties. 1530 Detached. 1836 Commenced night illumination practice with USS PC-791, OTC in Kyne. 2040 Completed illuminations and commenced tactical exercises in assigned area.11 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0610 Detached USS PC 791. 0700 Effected rendezvous with USS Smalley (DD-565) and USS Boggs (DMS-3), and commenced scheduled firing exercises. 1012 Completed exercises, having expended 28 rounds 3"/50 ammunition, no casualties. 1450 Commenced scheduled exercises. 1615 Completed scheduled exercises, USS Rall (DE-304) effected rendezvous. 1648 Rall and Kyne effected rendezvous with USS Denver (CL-58) and USS Muskogee (PF-49) and commenced tactical exercises, OTC in Denver.12 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0455 Detached. 0800 Effected rendezvous with FAD planes for aircraft torpedo attack exercises. 1425 Completed exercises and set course and speed for port. 1607 Moored to buoy #25, San Diego Harbor, San Diego, California.13 May 1944
Moored as before.
14 May 1944
Moored as before. 0719 Got underway and stood out for scheduled exercises in accordance with CTG 14.1 operations schedule 1-44, of 13 May 1944. 0845 Commenced full power run and full power stop. 1447 Conducted COTPAC exercise 10F. 1548 Completed scheduled exercises and set course and speed for port. 1804 Moored at Naval Repair Base, San Diego, California.15 May 1944
Moored as before. 0709 Got underway and stood out for scheduled torpedo firing exercises in accordance with CTG 14.1 operations schedule 1-44 of 13 May 1944. 0800 Effected rendezvous with USS Smalley (DD-565) and USS Fieberling (DE-640). 1305 Completed torpedo firing exercises. 1325 Conducted structural firing of depth charges, results satisfactory. 1345 Set course and speed for port. 1556 Moored at Naval Repair Base, San Diego, California.16 May 1944
Moored as before. 0703 Got underway to shift berth. 0754 Moored alongside USS Shelikof (AVP-52) at buoy #7, San Diego Harbor. 1057 Got underway and stood out in accordance with CTG 14.1 Operations schedule 1-44 of 13 May 1944, Executive officer at the conn. 1325 Effected rendezvous with USS Yakutat (AVP-32) and conducted scheduled firing exercises. 1636 Completed exercises. 2015 Effected rendezvous with USS Denver (CL-58), USS Alpine (APA-92), USS Rall (DE-304), and USS Fieberling (DE-640), escorts forming A/S screen on heavy ships, and engaging in tactical exercises, OTC in Denver.17 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0710 Detached. 0945 Effected rendezvous with FAD planes for aircraft torpedo exercises. 1615 Completed exercises. 1850 Effected rendezvous with USS Rall (DE-304), USS Fieberling (DE-640), USS Elliot (DMS-4), USS Alpine (APA-92), and USS Carson City (PF-50) for firing exercises, USS Alpine (APA-92) OTC.18 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0200 Completed exercises and took screening station. 0730 Detached. 0830 Effected rendezvous with USS Howarth (DD-592) and USS Grand Forks (PF-11) for firing exercises. 1329 Completed exercises. 2000 Effected rendezvous with USS Fieberling (DE-640), USS Sausalito (PF-4) and commenced tactical exercises, OTC in Kyne.19 May 1944
Steaming as before. 0530 Detached Fieberling AND Sausalito. 0703 Effected rendezvous with USS Denver (CL-58) and USS Smalley (DD-565). Commenced tactical exercises, OTC in Denver. 1130 Detached, set course and speed for port. 1549 Moored alongside USS Rockford (PF-48) at buoy #7, San Diego Harbor, San Diego, California.20 May 1944
Moored as before. 0845 Captain F. MOOSEBRURGER USN representing Commander Operational Training Command, Pacific Fleet came aboard and held final personnel and material inspection. 1130 USS Rockford (PF-48) stood out and Kyne moored to buoy #7. 1300 Shakedown complete. Reported to Commander, Operational Training Command for post shakedown availability.
21 May 1944
Moored as before. 1002 Got underway and stood out in accordance with CTF 14 movement order No. 153-44, Executive Officer at the conn. 1050 Took departure from buoy 1A abeam to starboard. Set speed 19 knots course 240T and pgc. 1116 Changed course to 285T and pgc, 258 pstgc. 1200 Changed course to 334T and pgc, 306 pstgc. 1535 Changed course to 340T and pgc. 1537 Commenced steering various courses and speeds standing into Los Angeles Harbor. 1650 Moored alongside dock, berth 11, pier 1, U.S. Naval Drydocks, Terminal Island, San Pedro, California.22 May to 31 May 1944 inclusive
Moored as before, engaged in post shakedown availability.1 June to 3 June 1944 inclusive
This vessel attached to Escort Division THIRTY TWO, United States Pacific Fleet. Keeping zone plus seven time. Moored alongside dock, berth 11, pier 1, U.S. Naval Drydocks, Terminal Island, San Pedro, California, engaged in post shakedown availability. 3 June 1944, 1300 Availability completed.4 June 1944
Moored as before. 0902 Got underway and shifted berth to berth 88 for fuel. 1004 Moored alongside dock at berth 88, Los Angeles Harbor.5 June 1944
Moored as before. 0815 Got underway and stood out to calibrate radio compass. 1255 Calibration completed, returned to port. 1511 Anchored in berth F-6, Los Angeles Harbor, Los Angeles, California.6 June 1944
Anchored as before. 0829 Got underway and stood out in accordance with CTG 14.7 movement order 39-44 of 5 June 1944. 0924 Took departure from Point Vicente light abeam to starboard distance 5 miles, set speed 15 knots, course 262T and pgc, 244 pstgc. 1459 Fire broke out in muffler space (B-103-E). 1506 Fire extinguished, damage negligible, cause spontaneous combustion of rags, remedied by removal of rags and restowage in cooler space.7 June 1944
Steaming as before. 0800 Increased speed to 16 knots. 1601 Reduced speed to 15 knots. 1630 Set all clocks back one hour to conform to zone plus eight (+8) time. 2200 Changed course to 247T and pgc, 230 pstgc.8 June 1944
Steaming as before. 1314 Changed course to 252T and pgc, 234 pstgc. 2203 Changed course to 247T and pgc, 228 pstgc.9 June 1944
Steaming as before. 1630 Set all clocks back one hour to conform to zone plus nine (+9) time.10 June 1944
Steaming as before. 0635 Changed course to 258T and pgc, 240 pstgc. 1012 Changed course to 246T and pgc, 228 pstgc. 1302 Changed course to 247T and pgc, 229 pstgc.
11 June 1944
Steaming as before. 0803 Changed course to 248T and pgc, 230 pstgc. 1630 Set all ship's clocks back one half hour to conform to zone plus nine and one half (9+1/2) time.12 June 1944
Steaming as before. 0745 Changed course to 245T and pgc, 228 pstgc. 0931 Changed course to 111T and pgc, 206 pstgc. 0941 Sighted Oahu, T.H. 231T, distance 15 miles. 1150 Makapuu light abeam to starboard distance 3 3/4 miles. Commenced steering various courses and speeds to effect entrance to Pearl Harbor. 1353 Moored alongside USS Richard S. Bull (DE-402) at DE Dock #2, Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, T. H. 1713 Yard oiler Y-28 came alongside to provide fuel. 1902 Fuelling completed Y-28 cast off and stood clear.13 June 1944
Moored as before. 0930 Got underway and shifted berth to berth S-19 at Sub Base, Pearl Harbor, T. H. 1015 Moored to dock in berth S-19.14 June 1944
Moored as before. 0631 Got underway and stood out in accordance with ComDesPac ltr Op-81 of this date, Executive Officer at the conn in accordance with Article 919, U.S. Navy Regulations. 0725 Effected rendezvous with USS Preston (DD-795) proceeding in column formation to torpedo exercise area at 19 knots, OTC in Preston. 0825 In exercise area, commenced scheduled exercises, torpedo dummy runs. 1424 Exercises completed, detached, set course and speed for port. 1635 Moored to dock in berth S-19, Sub Base, Pearl Harbor, T. H.15 June 1944
Moored as before. 0918 Got underway and stood out, Captain at the conn, in accordance with ComSubTrainPac secret mailgram 150130 June 1944. 1009 Effected rendezvous with USS Crowley (DE-303), USS Lyman (DE-302), USS Pomfret (SS-391), USS Snook (SS-279), USS Sunfish (SS-281), OTC in Crowley. Pomfret, Snook, and Sunfish in column. Crowley, Lyman, and Kyne in stations 1, 2, and 3 respectively of A/S screen plan #63. Set course 250T and pgc, speed 16 knots. 1040 Changed course to 325T. 1145 Changed course to 335T. 1230 Changed course to 028T. 1237 Changed speed to 15.5 knots. 1316 Increased speed to 19 knots. 1329 Reduced speed to 17 knots.16 June 1944
Steaming as before. 0245 Changed course to 315T and pgc, 298 pstgc; increased speed to 19 knots. 0330 Changed course to 045T and pgc, 024 pstgc. 0515 Sighted merchant convoy 3067, escorted by USS Smalley (DD-565) and USS Leutze (DD-481). 0535 Ceased escorting submarines and joined screen of merchant convoy, stations as follows: Crowley, 1, Kyne, 2, Lyman, 3, Leutze, 4, and Smalley, 5, Escort Commander in USS Smalley (DD-565), course 225T, speed 11 knots. 0617 Commenced scheduled exercises. 0700 Convoy commenced zigzagging in accordance with plan #15, zigzag plan for single ships and convoys, 1940. 1126 Ceased zigzagging resumed base course. 1350 Changed course to 216T and pgc, 198 pstgc. 1400 Resumed zigzagging according to plan #15. 1545 Friendly subs commenced runs on convoy. 1553 USS Crowley (DE-303) left station to develop sonar contact, remaining escorts formed on plan #54, Kyne in station #2. 1620 Crowley rejoined screen in station 5, screen reformed
according to plan #55, Kyne in station #2. 1630 USS Leutze left station to develop sonar contact. Screen formed on plan #54, Kyne in station #2. 1710 Leutze rejoined screen, and Lyman left to develop sonar contact. 1755 Lyman rejoined in station #4, Kyne taking station #1, screen reformed in accordance with plan #55. 1900 Ceased zigzagging and resumed base course, left screen and made runs on submarine. 2052 Completed runs on submarine and resumed station #1 in screen.17 June 1944
Steaming as before. 0110 Detached from screen of convoy 3067, and formed special screen on USS Pomfret, USS Snook, and USS Sunfish with USS Crowley and USS Lyman. Set course 190T, 196 pgc, 180 pstgc, speed 15.5 knots. 0517 Changed course to 155T, 161 pgc, 141 pstgc. 0546 Changed speed to 16 knots. 0647 Changed course to 140T, 146 pgc, 129 pstgc. 0800 USS Crowley (DE-303) left formation with USS Sunfish (SS-281), Kyne assumed OTC. Kyne and Lyman formed screen plan #52, Kyne in station #1. 0900 Commenced steering various courses at various speeds entering Pearl Harbor, T.H. astern of USS Pomfret (SS-391) and USS Snook (SS-279). 0948 Moored at berth #2, DE Docks. 1046 Got underway to shift berth. 1125 Moored alongside USS Preston (DD-795), which was moored alongside USS Allen (DD-66) in berth B-20, Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, T.H.18 June 1944
Moored as before.19 June 1944
Moored as before. 0915 Got underway in accordance with verbal orders of the Commandant, Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, Captain at the conn. 0935 Entered YFD #2. 1021 Resting on keel blocks in YFD #2.20 June 1944
Resting on keel blocks as before.21 June 1944
Resting on keel blocks as before.22 June 1944
Resting on keel blocks as before. 1439 Got underway to shift berth, Captain at the conn. 1513 Moored alongside USS Clamour (AM-160) in berth B-23, Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, T. H.23 June 1944
Moored as before. 0809 Got underway, Captain at the conn to shift berth. 0836 Moored alongside USS Montgomery (DM-17) at berth #2, DE Docks.24 June 1944
Moored as before. 0633 Got underway and stood out in accordance with COMDESPAC Conf. mailgram 222124 of June 1944, Captain at the conn. 0816 In area S-1, reported to USS Preston (DD-795) and and conducted torpedo firing exercise, TER 1. 1132 Practice torpedo fired by Preston struck port side of ship at frame 9, two feet below waterline causing dent, no leakage, torpedo broke up and sank. 1150 Conducted exercise TES-2. 1440 Exercises completed, detached, set course and speed for port. 1601 Moored to dock in berth S-15, Sub Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H.25 June 1944
Moored as before.
26 June 1944
Moored as before. 0630 Got underway and stood out in accordance with COMDESPAC Conf. mailgram 252134 of June 1944, Executive Officer at the conn in accordance with Article 919, U.S. Navy Regulations 1920. 0800 Effected rendezvous with USS S-28, USS SC-997, and USCG Reliance and commenced sonar exercises, OTC in Kyne. 1209 Conducted ComDesPac exercise X-3. 1300 Resumed sonar exercises. 1530 Detached USS SC 997. 1706 Completed scheduled exercises. 1717 Relieved as escort of S-28 by USCG Reliance. Set course and speed for port. 1909 Moored alongside USS Seid (DE-256).27 June 1944
Moored as before. 0630 Got underway and stood out in accordance with COMDESPAC speed letter serial DP-0100 of 20 June 1944. 0948 Arrived in assigned operating area X-12 and commenced scheduled exercises. 1152 Completed A/A firing, having expended 142 rounds of A/A common, 2250 rounds 20mm, 492 rounds 40mm. 1615 Effected rendezvous with USS Seagull (ATO-141), target towing vessel, and commenced surface firing exercises. 2205 Completed firing practices, having expended 48 rounds 3"/50 common. Steaming various courses and speeds in operating area during the night.28 June 1944
Steaming as before. 0200 Set course and speed for port. 0917 Moored alongside USS Montgomery (DM-17) in berth #2, DE Docks, Pearl Harbor, T.H.29 June 1944
Moored as before. 0631 Got underway and stood out in accordance with COMSUBTRAINPAC confidential mailgram of 28 June 1944, Executive Officer at the conn in accordance with Article 919, U.S. Navy Regulations, 1920. 0723 Effected rendezvous with USS Crowley (DE-303) and USS Sterlet (SS-293), Crowley OCP. 0920 In assigned area, commenced submarine exercises. 1139 USS Rall (DE-304) and USS Burfish (SS-312) joined exercise group.30 June 1944
Steaming as before. 0300 Left group to escort USS Burfish (SS-312) to harbor entrance. 0629 Burfish entered Pearl Harbor channel. Kyne set course and speed to rejoin exercise group. 0720 Rejoined group and resumed exercises. 1426 Detached from group, escorting USS Sterlet (SS-392) to port. 1650 Moored alongside USS Edmonds (DE-406) in berth #1, DE Docks.1 July 1944
This vessel attached to Escort Division THIRTY TWO, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Keeping zone plus nine and a half time. Moored as before.2 July 1944
Prior to this date the ship has completed shakedown and undergone routine training. 1330 Underway to screen for sortie of convoy PD-2-T. J.C. Butler had gotten underway previously to screen for sortie of Honolulu section. 1400 Convoy got underway and stood out. 1500 Both sections joined and formed column, escorts screening as follows: USS Kyne station 1, USS Corbesier station 2, USS J.C. Butler, station 3. Table II, FTP 223. Convoy Commander in USS Ocklawaha, Escort Commander in Kyne. 1433 Received information that SS Elmira Victory would be delayed five hours in sailing and detached USS J.C. Butler with orders to proceed to
entrance at Pearl, rendezvous with Elmira Victory there, and escort her to convoy. Kyne and Corbesier took stations 1 and 2, respectively, screen #52 USF 10A. 1800 Took station ahead in column of ships with Corbesier astern and fired TARE and HOW AA practices. 1950 Convoy formed into 3 columns, escorts resumed screening stations.3 July 1944
USS J.C. Butler with Elmira Victory joined formation, disposition of screen Kyne station 1, Corbesier station 2, J.C. Butler station 3, Table II, FTP 223, Convoy in 3 columns, 2 ships each. 1848 Commenced sunset sweep. 1948 Resumed screening station. 2200 Corbesier reported radar contact and proceeded to investigate. Took Corbesier's station in screen and sighted ship bearing 230T, distance 8 miles, which was vessel Corbesier was investigating and appeared to be a merchant-man. Corbesier reported contact was friendly merchant-man and stood ready to resume her station.4 July 1944
Made sunset sweep. 1945 Resumed screening station.5 July 1944
1410 Made radar contact bearing 206, distance 15 miles. 1415 Made visual contact with the radar contact, identified as friendly merchant-man on course 090, speed 18. 1845 Made sunset sweep. 1915 Resumed screening station. 2310 Made radar contact bearing 187 distance 15 miles, contact was identified as friendly.6 July 1944
Made sunset sweep. 2115 Radar contact bearing 190, distance 17 miles, contact friendly.8 July 1944
Crossed 180th meridian. Made sunset sweep. 2029 Picked up intermittent radar contact 4000 yards astern of left hand column of convoy. Directed Corbesier to investigate. 2031 Butler reported sound contact 500 yards ahead. Directed convoy Commander to execute an emergency turn to the left. Corbesier reported results negative on investigation and directed her to resume station since Butler by this time was at rear of convoy. 2100 Radar contact bearing 210 distance 15 miles. Later proved to be friendly. 2130 Convoy resumed base course. Butler made two Mark 10 attacks with negative results. Searched vicinity for two hours then rejoined convoy. Reported traces indicated non-sub. During Butler's absence formed screen #52 USF 10A. Upon Butler's return formed original screen.9 July 1944
1835 Commenced sunset sweep. 1850 Corbesier reported contact. Returned to station at full speed. Convoy made emergency turn to starboard, Corbesier dropped an urgent full destructive pattern and later reported contact believed to be fish. Resumed base course and normal screen when Corbesier rejoined.10 July 1944
Made sunset sweep.11 July 1944
Made land fall on Eniwetok Atoll and Convoy PD-2-T entered followed by vessels of the screen.
12 July 1944
Underway at 0700 and stood out of Eniwetok Harbor to screen for sortie of Task Unit 52.4. Screening vessels USS Kyne, USS Corbesier, USS Dent, USS Butler. Dent assigned to screen van and left flank, Corbesier to screen rear and left flank, Kyne to screen van and right flank, Butler to screen rear and right flank. Screen Commander in Kyne. At 0800 ships of Task Unit 52.4 commenced sortie in column, order of ships Leonard Wood, Pierce, Ohara, La Salle, Calloway, Leon, Sumpter, and Fomalhaut. CTG 52.4 is OTC and is in Leonard Wood. At 1000 ships of Task Unit 52.4 formed cruising formation VL and vessels of screen formed intermediate bent arc screen, order of ships in screen from left to right, Corbesier, Dent, Kyne, Butler.13 July to 20 July inclusive
Disposition remained the same during this period until arrival Pearl Harbor. Numerous air and surface radar contacts were made but all either left the screen or were eventually identified as friendly. Upon arrival of task group off Pearl Harbor, ships of main body entered at intervals of ten minutes. Vessels of the screen patrolled van, flanks, and rear during entry. Upon entry of main body vessels of the screen entered Pearl Harbor.1 August 1944
Operating as plane guard with USS John C. Butler (DE-339), USS Seid (DE-256) and USS Lyman (DE-302) for USS Savo Island (CVE-78) and USS Ommaney Bay (CVE-79), engaged in qualifications and carrier operational exercises. 0944 Took station at rear of column with USS Lyman and USS Seid in van, followed by USS Ommaney Bay, USS Savo Island, USS Butler, and USS Kyne for A/S gunnery exercises. 1149 Completed practices and assumed screening disposition 52 on USS Savo Island with USS Butler in station 1. 1225 Screening entry. 1410 Entered Pearl Harbor. 1439 Moored.2-3 August 1944
Moored - upkeep.4 August 1944
0706 Got underway with USS John C. Butler (DE-339) for gunnery exercises. 1005 Arrived in firing area and commenced A/A firing, ComDesPac exercises E10, E12, and E13 (how, Baker, and Tare runs.) 1139 Completed A/A practices. 1330 Effected rendezvous with towing vessel and target and commenced surface firing practices, ComDesPac exercises E1 and E2, (Day Battle and Day Spotting). 1549 Completed E1, and E1 [sic] and secured from General Quarters preparatory to conducting E3, (day surprise). 1615 Fired E3. 1624 Completed day practices, took station astern of USS Butler maneuvering to remain in area for night practices. 2025 Commences ComDesPac exercises E6, and E9, (night battle and illumination). 2206 Completed night firing and took station astern USS Butler.5 August 1944
0530 Detached by USS Butler, returned to port. 1006 Moored.6 August 1944
0753 Got underway with USS Howell (DE-403) to screen sortie of USS Savo Island (CVE-78). 1005 Fired A/A practices enroute to operating area. 1221 In flight operations area acting as plane guard or screen as directed
for operations. 1505 Operations for day completed. 2212 USS Savo Island commenced night qualifications, took station 1000 yards on port beam of carrier with yard arm lights burning. USS Howell took station 500-700 yards on starboard quarter with red truck lights burning.7 August 1944
0027 Completed night operations, put out yard arm lights and took screening station No. 2., plan 52. 0910 Commenced flight operations; acted as plane guard or screening vessel on USS Savo Island (CVE-78) as directed. 1558 Day operations completed. 2245 Commenced night qualifications and took station astern, while USS Howell took station on port beam.8 August 1944
0117 Completed night operations and assumed station No. 1, screen plan 52. 0355 Detached, returned to port. 1331 Moored.9 August 1944
0610 Got underway with USS Conklin (DE-439) to screen sortie of USS Kadashan Bay (CVE-76) and USS Sargeant Bay (CVE-83). 0832 Assumed column formation to fire A/A practice. 1118 Completed practice and took station 2, screen 52. 1302 Arrived in area and commenced flight operations taking screening station or plane guard station as ordered. 1758 Operations completed, resumed station 2, plan 52.10 August 1944
0611 Commenced flight operations, taking screening station or plane guard station as ordered. 1302 Relieved by USS Halloran (DE-305) and detached. Returned to port. 1833 Moored.11 August 1944
Moored, provisioning, fuelling, replenishing ammunition.12 August 1944
0612 Got underway to screen sortie of TG 32.4. 1352 TG 32.4 formed up, assumed station 13 of special cruising disposition 3AL-1(8.5070), speed 13 knots, course 184T. Zigzagging on plan 6, when ordered. 1556 Exchanged stations with PC 1177, took station 11 (8.5050). 2015 Changed course to 237T.13 August 1944
0825 Heavy ships fired A/A practice while screening vessels kept clear. 1258 Took station as target vessel for exercise 2D (USF10A). 1440 Completed exercise. 1549 Resumed station in screen. 2000-2030 Engaged in tactical exercises on signal from OTC.14 August 1944
0552 Dispatched from formation to investigate surface contact, distance 7 miles. Manned battle stations. 0610 Identified contact as USS Raymond (DE-341) effecting rendezvous. Secured from battle stations. 0642 Resumed station in screen. 1600 Changed course to 233T.21 August 1944
Steaming as before.22 August 1944
0930 Changed course to 203T, crossed equator, held appropriate ceremonies.
23 August 1944
1039 Commenced tactical exercises on signal from OTC. 1123 Completed exercises. 1330 Commenced tactical exercises on signal from OTC. 1457 Completed exercises. 2005 Commenced night tactical exercises on signal from OTC. 2031 Completed exercises.24 August 1944
0616 Sighted Ndai Island, British Solomon Islands, bearing 201T, distance 15 miles. On signal from OTC changed courses to navigate Indispensable Straight. 0909 Took station 4090 on USS Marcus Island (CVE-77) pursuant to entrance order. Changing courses on signal as ordered to navigate Indispensable Straight, The Slot, and Ironbottom Bay. 1644 Entered Gavutu Harbor, Florida Island, British Solomon Islands and moored alongside USS Raymond (DE-341).25 August 1944
1151 Anchored in 30 fathoms of water, coral bottom, with 90 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. USS Raymond (DE-341) heaved up her anchor but remained moored alongside to port. 1606 USS Crowley (DE-303) moored alongside to starboard. 1643 USS Raymond (DE-341) got underway.26-31 August 1944
Anchored as before engaged in upkeep and awaiting orders.15 August 1944
0430 Left formation to take station as target vessel for exercise 2C (USF10A). 0705 Completed exercise and resumed station in screen. 0956 Commenced tactical exercises on signal from OTC. 1030 Commenced tracking drill. 1127 Ceased all exercises. 1212 Left station to deliver acute appendectomy patient, Lieutenant F. F. KEESLING, D-V(G), USNR to USS Barnstable (APA-93) for operation and treatment. 1312 Patient transferred to Barnstable surfboat. 1411 Resumed station in screen. 1600 Changed course to 126T.16 August 1944
0435 Left formation to take station as target vessel for exercise 2C (USF10A). 0724 Exercise completed, resumed station. 1300 Commenced tactical exercises on signal from OTC. 1439 Completed tactical exercises. 1618 Resumed tactical exercises on signal from OTC. 1635 Completed tactical exercises.17 August 1944
0430 Left formation to take station as target vessel for exercise 2C (USF10A). 0702 Completed exercise and resumed station. 1304 Commenced tactical exercises on signal from OTC. 1523 Completed tactical exercises. 1840 On signal from OTC detached by transport screen commander CTU 32.4.8 and reported to carrier screen commander CTU 32.4.5. 1912 Assigned station 4180 on USS Marcus Island (CVE-77) carrier formation guide. 2400 Crossed International Date Line.19 August 1944
0848 Assumed station 6 for screening disposition 56 C steaming various courses and speeds as signaled, and left formation to screen any carrier which left formation for flight operations. 1156 Plane from USS Kadashan Bay (CVE-76) spun in on starboard quarter of carrier during attempted landing. Put rudder hard over and came to course to effect rescue. USS Southard (DMS-10) did likewise. Commander carrier screen ordered Southard to pick up men, Kyne to stand by. Stood by until
Southard had men aboard then resumed station on carriers who had become concealed from each other in thick rain squall which had come up but soon passed over. 1240 Weather concluded further flight operations for the day. 1657 Assumed course 257T. 1920 Took night screening station 4220 on USS Marcus Island (CVE-77).20 August 1944
0600 Assumed station 6 in screen plan 56C. 0848 Commenced flight operations, took screening station 2000 yards ahead of USS Marcus Island (CVE-77). 0857 Completed flight operations. 0925 Marcus Island resumed flight operations; took screening station ahead. 0930 Completed operations; resumed station 6 in screen 56C. 1045 Detached from carrier screen, made preparations to fuel at sea. 1402 Went alongside USS Atascosa (AO-66) and commenced receiving fuel. 1458 Cast off tow line and assumed screening station 8.5060, patrolling station. 1709 Commenced tactical exercises on signal from OTC. 1735 Completed tactical exercises, assumed base course 253T. 1755 Assumed station 15 (8.5070) in special cruising disposition 3AL-2.(21 August to 31 August inclusive on pages 12 and 13.)
1 September to 8 September inclusive
Anchored, engaged in upkeep and logistics, awaiting time for execution of orders.9 September 1944
0556 Got underway to escort SS Cape Georgia to Russell Islands rendezvous. 1045 Arrived Russell Islands.10 September 1944
0528 Got underway with TU 31.4.2, plus USS Oceanus (ARB-2) as escort with USS Crowley (DE-303), enroute Seeadler Harbor, Manus, Admiralty Islands. 0750 Assumed screening station No. 2 (3300).11 September 1944
1345 Crowley left station to investigate sound contact; we shifted station to cover bow of formation, which made emergency turn to port. 1405 Crowley fired depth charges. 1507 Crowley rejoined and we resumed A/S screening station 2 (3300). 1931 Made interceptive radar search 5 miles astern of formation and on either quarter. 2102 Resumed station.12 September 1944
1629 Made sound contact at 3000 yds. Commenced urgent attack as convoy made emergency turn to starboard. Lost contact at 1200 yds. Contact determined non-sub, commenced return to station. 1640 Regained contact at 1800 yds. Commenced deliberate attack. Contact faded out at 600 yds. but definitively determined visually to have been a school of porpoise. It was considered that this was same contact originally made at 3000 yds. Recorder traces confirmed visual classification. 1708 Resumed station in screen on original course. 1902 Commenced interceptive radar search 5 miles astern and on either quarter of formation. 2030 Resumed station.13 September 1944
1347 Crowley left formation to investigate sound contact; we shifted to take station ahead as formation made emergency turn to port. 1359 Crowley classified contact as fish and resumed station. We resumed our station.
14 September 1944
1130 Covered convoy entrance to Seeadler Harbor, Manus, Admiralty Islands, then entered, fuelled, and moored alongside USS Lake (DE-301) in berth 364.15 September 1944
1125 Got underway with Escort Division 49, less USS Mitchell (DE-43) to screen Task Unit 31.4, Western Garrison Force to Palau Islands. Force consisted of 14 Merchant vessels, 2 navy cargo ships, and USS Oceanus (ARB-2). Conducted sortie in accordance with plan Baker USF10A, Kyne in station 6, then formed in columns ahead of Task Group formed in double column for A/A practice. 1522 Fired practice on passing runs. 1615 Took station #6 (7270) of A/S special screen plan 96D. 1736 Took station #6 (5180) of A/S special screen plan 96N.16 September 1944
0534 Took day screening station. 1026 Made contact with unidentified aircraft bearing 165T distance 35 miles and commenced tracking (see attached plot). 1029 Reported bogey to screen commander. 1031 Bogey was picked up on SL radar at 30 miles, bearing 177T. Estimated altitude 1500 ft. 1033 Made amplifying report to Screen Commander giving course of bogey as 282T, speed 150. Bogey closed on irregular course to minimum range of 26 miles on port beam of formation. At 1042 bogey faded at 29 miles, bearing 220T. It was relocated at 1044 but faded again at 1045, range 33 miles, bearing 230T. It reappeared at 1049 range 35, bearing 240T, but was lost again at 1050 range 36 miles bearing 243T, and contact was never regained. It is probable that this was a friendly plane on roughly parallel course to our own, and the irregular course may be due to natural inaccuracies of plotted radar ranges and bearings. 1100 Commenced zigzagging according to plan 11 Zed for drill purposes. at 1135 another bogey appeared on the scope at 81 miles, bearing 190T, but disappeared at 1138 range 85 miles before any definite information could be obtained in him. Due to the fact that it was opening, and at such long range, no report was made to Screen Commander. 1200 Ceased zigzagging. 1724 Took night screening station.17 September 1944
0441 Took day screening station. 1737 Took night screening station.18 September 1944
0513 Took day screening station. 1751 Took night screening station. 1905 Surface contact was made by screening vessels ahead and unit made emergency turn to port. 1920 Contact was identified as friendly and passing clear, so unit resumed base course. 2145 SS Cape Isabel developed steering gear trouble and fell out of formation. We were directed to screen her. At 2200 SS Cape Isabel reported repairs would require some time, but would endeavor to maintain speed and keep clear. 2205 It was determined that SS Cape Isabel was too far from the formation to receive proper screening by the formation screen, so we shifted station to her starboard bow, which was on the starboard quarter of formation. Thus we covered her exposed side adequately until 2325 when she completed repairs, and we resumed normal night screening station.19 September 1944
0506 Took day screening station. 1010 Detached from TU 31.4.4, designated OTC, and directed to take SS Yugoslavia Victory to the transport area, Peliliu Island, arriving at 1000 on the 20th. Assumed
command, set course and speed, ordered SS Yugoslavia Victory to commence zigzagging and took station 4000 yds. ahead, patrolling station.20 September 1944
0801 Sighted Angaur Island. 1000 Arrived in transport area and turned SS Yugoslavia Victory over to CTG 32.3 as directed. Lay in to transport area until 1640, then got underway with Transport Division 6 and USS Hamilton, USS Long, and USS Southard as escorts, shaped course for Seeadler, Harbor, Manus, Admiralty Islands. 1844 Alert for enemy air attack, set condition I. Bursts sighted in vicinity of islands, undetermined whether bomb bursts or shell bursts. 1925 All clear, set condition II.21, 22, 23 September 1944
Steaming as before.24 September 1944
0719 Followed Transport Division 6 and USS Hamilton into Seeadler Harbor and anchored in berth C-28. 1000 Got underway and went alongside USS Armadillo (IX-11) to fuel. 1335 Returned to berth C-28.25 September 1944
0732 Got underway and stood out to cover sortie of four ships of Transport Division 6. 0855 Took station with USS Hamilton as A/S screen. Set course for Hollandia, Dutch New Guinea. 1500 Conducted A/A burst firing practice. 2140 Left station to investigate sonar contact while formation made an emergency turn to starboard. 2206 Contact classified non-sub, resumed station as formation resumed base course.26 September 1944
0339 Left station to investigate unidentified surface target, closing rapidly at short range. 0350 Identified ship visually as USS YMS 9, directed her to proceed. Resumed station. 1235 Followed all other ships into Hollandia Bay, and anchored. 1521 Got underway with USS Hamilton for Woendi Lagoon, Padaido Islands, Dutch New Guinea.27 September 1944
0947 Anchored in Woendi Lagoon.28 September 1944
0650 Got underway to escort USS Dixie (AD-14) to Ulithi, West Caroline Islands. 0653 Steering casualty, rudder jammed to starboard, anchored. 0702 Casualty remedied, got underway to cover sortie of USS Dixie. 0740 Took A/S screen station No. 1, Plan 51. 1145 Obtained sonar contact, left station to investigate. Dixie made emergency turn to starboard. 1155 Contact classified as fish, Dixie resumed base course and we resumed screening station.29 September 1944
Steaming as before.30 September 1944
0849 Arrived Ulithi and covered entrance of Dixie into lagoon. 0911 Detached and set course for Kossol Passage, Palau Islands, steaming independently.
1 October 1944
0244 Received orders by radio of CTF to return to Ulithi and await further orders. Due to the impossibility of reaching Ulithi by daylight following route north of Yap, set course direct for Ulithi between Yap and Ngulu Islands and increased speed to full. 1102 Sighted Yap Island at 21 miles. 1729 Stood into Ulithi Lagoon as suns et and at 1821 anchored in assigned berth.2 October 1944
Anchored as before. During evening the wind and sea increased steadily and the barometer dropped. Small landing craft of the boat pool came alongside and requested permission to secure to the fantail as the LST 689 serving as their could not accommodate them. Some of the men were brought aboard and others remained in the boats as boat keepers. However the increasing seas grew so severe that the small boats began to swamp. The men were brought aboard ship, and, after one boat sank, the others were cast adrift in sinking condition with the hope that they would reach the beach before sinking and be in condition to salvage. As the storm had not reached its peak the men were kept aboard ship.3 October 1944
Ship and others in vicinity dragging anchor and reef only half a mile away down wind, so at 0840 got underway to seek a berth with more sea room. 0850 Anchored in 22 fathoms of water, half a mile from any other ship, and veered to 90 fathoms on the starboard anchor. Dropped port anchor underfoot and veered to 30 fathoms. Storm reached peak in early afternoon with winds up to 50 knots. Small craft unable to operate.4 October 1944
Barometer commenced to rise steadily, but wind and sea remained heavy. 1100 Task Force entered. 1112 Shifted berth to clear anchorage for Task Force. During the afternoon the wind and sea abated slightly but still too rough for small craft. Remained anchored in 13 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms to the starboard anchor and 29 fathoms to port.5 October 1944
Anchored as before. Wind and sea considerably moderated. 0730 Hove in port anchor. 0830 Returned eighteen men of boat pool to LST-689 by whaleboat.6 October 1944
Hove in starboard anchor to 60 fathoms.7, 8, 9 October 1944
Engaged in upkeep and awaiting orders.10 October 1944
1440 Got underway and went alongside USS Nantaihala (AO-60) for fuel. No symbol 9370 lube oil available. 1641 Completed fuelling, got underway and stood out to assume security ("ping-line") patrol on station 2, between Pau and Feitabul Islands.11 October 1944
Patrolling station 2.12 October 1944
0834 Relieved of patrol by Commander Escort Division 61. Returned to anchorage.
13 October 1944
0806 Got underway, stood out, and relieved USS Rall (DE-304) of security ("ping-line") patrol on station 1, between Pau and Agor Islands.14 October 1944
0900 Relieved of patrol by USS Eichenberger (DE-202), returned to port and moored alongside USS Nantahala (AO-60) to top off fuel. Still unable to locate symbol 9370 lube oil on any tanker. 1139 Completed topping off fuel, got underway and shifted berth to anchorage. 1214 Anchored.15, 16, 17 October 1944
Anchored, awaiting loading of transports to be convoyed.18 October 1944
1501 Got underway and stood out, screening sortie of USAT Holbrook, KPM Van Heutz and another Dutch ship, Sloterdyk. 1645 Took screening station on port bow of convoy, escort commander in USS Eichenberger (DE-202) on starboard bow, with USS James E. Craig astern due to inoperative sonar equipment. Zigzagging during daylight and moonlight.19 October 1944
1028 Sighted object in water on own starboard bow but on port bow of convoy, which resembled the war head of a spent torpedo, if such would float. Left station to investigate. Craig was ordered to sink it, and we were ordered to resume station. Reported object classified as belly auxiliary gas tank of plane. Craig later concurred and sunk same. Zigzagging during daylight and moonlight.20 October 1944
0723 Arrived off Peliliu Island and convoy approached beach for unloading. We lay to until 0817 when Eichenberger came alongside and passed orders to take station seven (7) of security ("ping-line") patrol. 1002 Reached station 7 and commenced patrolling same. 1551 Ordered to shift patrol to include all of station six (6) and half of 7, and did so. 1745 Left station to investigate sonar contact. It was classified as current. Later on several occasions noted similar phenomena which indicated marked current running southward about either side of Anguar Island with confluence about 3 miles south of the island. 1806 Resumed patrol. 2035 On orders commenced shifting to station 26. Before reaching that station, received orders relieving us from security ("ping-line") duty and ordering us to rendezvous with USS Lyman (DE-302) and USS Rotanin (AK-108). 2129 Effected rendezvous, took station on port bow of Rotanin, Lyman on starboard bow with Commander Escort Division 49 as OTC. Shaped course to northward for Kossol Passage.21 October 1944
0611 Entered Kossol Passage, Palau Islands. 0700 Went alongside USS Kankakee (AO-39) to top off fuel. Able to obtain twelve (12) drums only of 9370 lube oil, approximately 25% of requirement. 0805 Got underway and shifted berth to anchorage. 1452 Got underway on signal and stood out with USS Lyman (DE-302), shaped course for Peliliu, proceeding at best possible speed. 1830 Arrived off Peliliu and were assigned station 23 of security ("ping-line") patrol.22 October 1944
0655 Ordered to assume patrol of station seven (7). Did so,
1025 Ordered to assume half of station six (6) in addition to station 7. Did so. 1230 Relieved by USS PC-1177, proceeded to rendezvous with USS Lyman (DE-302) and USS Reynolds (DE-42) on vicinity station 100. 1245 Chief Pharmacist's Mate reported suspected acute appendicitis case aboard. 1330 Commander Escort Division 49 sent Medical Officer aboard. Diagnosis confirmed. Ordered to proceed to U.S. Navy Hospital Ship Solace (AH-5), transfer patient and rendezvous with convoy being formed south of Anguar. Did so. 1528 While rejoining were ordered to investigate object in water. Classified object as oil drum, holed it with rifle fire in passing. 1556 Took station assigned (3.9070). 1745 Took night screening station (3.5100). Five ships in convoy, SS Cape San Martin, Convoy Commodore, in 21, SS Mormacport, guide in 31, SS Cape Georgia in 41, USS Rotanin (AK-108) in 32, and SS Sea Sturgeon in 42. Ocean escort, designated TU 57.17.1 consisted of USS Reynolds (DE-42) on port buoy, USS Lyman (DE-302), Commander Escort Division 49 ahead, and Kyne.23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 October 1944
Steaming as before enroute Peliliu, Palau Islands to Russell Islands, British Solomon Islands via route "Futurity", shifting to day cruising station (3.9070) at sunrise and back to night station (3.5100) at sunset. Patrolling station, average SOA 10 knots.29 October 1944
0603 Assumed day station. 1700 Assumed cruising formation 4. Convoy formed into two columns, Rotanin (11), Cape San Martin, guide, (21), Mormacport (12), Cape Georgia (22), Sea Sturgeon (23). Took day screening station 3 (2.8070). 1820 Took night screening station 3 (2.3090).30 October 1944
0552 Assumed day station. 0614 Ceased patrolling station. 1210 Sighted Russell Islands. 1545 Set up patrol on west side of north entrance to West Bay, Russell Islands, British Solomon Islands. Followed all other ships in and at 1839 moored alongside USS Reynolds.31 October 1944
1101 Got underway on signal, formed column, USS Lyman in the van, USS Kyne no. 2, USS Reynolds astern, and steamed out of harbor. Set course for Tulagi, Florida Islands, British Solomon Islands. 1652 Moored to fuel dock and commenced fuelling. 1805 Completed fuelling.1, 2 November 1944
In Purvis Bay, Tulagi, Florida Islands for logistics.3 November 1944
0717 Got underway with USS Lyman (DE-302) and shifted to Tulagi Harbor for further logistics. 1633 Returned to Purvis Bay.4 November 1944
0703 Got underway for Seeadler Harbor, Manus, Admiralty Islands in company with USS Lyman (DE-302), USS Reynolds (DE-42), OTC, CTU 57.17.1, Commander Escort Division 49 in Lyman. Stood out through Indispensable Strait in column open order. After passing Ramos Island formed line abreast, interval 2,000 yards.
5 November 1944
1156 Passed convoy PR-2 southbound. 2213 Passed APD-12, APD-25, APD-33 in similar formation southbound.6 November 1944
As before enroute Manus.7 November 1944
0400 Formed column. 0450 Maneuvered to pass clear of formation of LCI(L)'s and other amphibious craft. 0741 Entered Seeadler Harbor, Manus, Admiralty Islands. 0915 Fuelled. 1211 Moored starboard side to port side of USS Lyman (DE-302) in berth 219.8, 9 November 1944
Seeadler Harbor, Manus, Admiralty Islands in upkeep.10 November 1944
0855 USS Mount Hood (AE-11), berthed about one mile away, exploded. Damage to USS Mindanao (ARG-3) and other ships in vicinity great. Kyne hit by numerous fragments, three of which perforated deck and did various damage; one man, SMITH, Roy (n) received serious wounds from one fragment, was transferred to Base Hospital 15, and later succumbed to injuries. When our casualty had been transferred medical corps personnel were sent to USS Mindanao (ARG-3) to assist. The following witness reports describe casualty to the best of our knowledge:
COMMANDING OFFICER'S REPORT OF DAMAGE
1. A thorough examination of the ship has revealed the following damage incurred from the explosion of the USS Mt. Hood.2. Repairs have been effected by ship's force on the deck holes at frames 141 and 107, but the hole at frame 72 is about 18" in diameter and was torn by a 122 pound twisted piece of 1/2" steel deck or hull plating. This repair will be effected by ship's force when deck plating is obtained. Vegetable locker and air plot likewise will be repaired by ship's force when materials become available.
- Deck indented and holed in three places, frame 141 main deck port side, frame 107 superstructure deck starboard side, frame 72 superstructure deck port side.
- Vegetable locker crushed at frame 72, port.
- Etched polar coordinate plot glass on air plot in C.I.C. shattered.
3. This ship suffered one personnel casualty. SMITH, Roy (n), 930-67-61, S1c, SV-V6, U.S. Naval Reserve, was struck across the back and thigh by the fragment of metal which holed the deck at frame 141. The manner of the accident is described in Enclosure (B) of basic letter. A pharmacist's mate was on the job within two minutes after the accident, and the division Medical Officer came aboard nineteen minutes after the accident; at 0942 the hospital boat from the base arrived and at 0957, an hour after the accident occurred, SMITH was turned over to the doctor from the base hospital and was removed to base medical facilities. It was
later learned that he died on the operating table.OFFICER OF THE DECK'S REPORT OF THE EXPLOSION
At 0855 on November 10, 1944 I was standing watch as Officer of the Deck on the quarter deck at the port gangway about midships, facing outboard, gazing generally in the direction of the USS Cebu (ARG-6) and the USS Mindanao (ARG-3) and the USS Mt. Hood (AE-11), which direction was slightly abaft of our port beam. I was engaged in conversation with one Joseph L. MIANO, S1c, USNR, when somewhere near the center of my vision a small light brown column of smoke rose rapidly to, I would estimate, between 200 and 300 feet, and was just beginning to mushroom out when a tremendous explosion occurred almost in the same identical spot, but possibly a little to the right. The initial explosion obscured the ship from view so that I could not tell it was centered in a ship. My mental reaction to the original explosion was that somebody was blasting quite close to those ships as it resembled in size and appearance the occasional blasting I had seen going on somewhere along the edge of the harbor. I would judge that there was an elapse of 2 to 3 seconds between the original explosion and the second one. The second one, or main explosion shot a column of purplish dark gray smoke strait up at least 6000 feet and a billowing black cloud out in all directions from its center at water level. There was a red flash that extended nearly the full vertical length of the column, but which did not seem to branch out horizontally. As the column reached its highest point debris and fragments were visible in the air from practically mast height to the top of the column. There was also visible tracer shells and minor explosions in the air. At this time I noticed water splashes not far from our ship when the concussion hit partially knocking me down to the deck where I remained momentarily. I then crawled into the adjacent muffler space and held the door looking out towards the explosion. All the ships in that area were completely hidden by the black pall of smoke and the water was kicking up splashes from all sizes of fragments. Shortly after entering the muffler space I heard a loud retort which I was certain was an explosion on our own ship, but was apparently a 122 pound fragment of deck plating that hit the top of the muffler space 20 feet forward of my location. As the air was clear of the fragments, I came out of the muffler space and a moment later was hailed by a sailor aft toward the fantail, and told one of our men had been seriously injured, by a fragment, As the black cloud of smoke slowly rose, there was no ship visible at the spot where the explosion was centered.WILLIAM B. WILKERSON, S1c, REPORT OF SMITH'S ACCIDENT "I was on the fantail washing out swabs at about 0855 this date, SMITH had brought a box of garbage back to the fantail and had set it down by the slop chute and had started back forward. All at once there was an explosion and the air was full of debris. When SMITH heard the explosion he laid down on the deck, face down, alongside the depth charge racks as if to protect himself. I saw an object that was roughly the size of a box of cigars coming down end over end at an angle of about sixty degrees. It appeared as if it would strike between the twenty millimeters on the fantail and number three, three inch gun, on about the
center line. I turned and ran to take cover behind the three inch splinter shield on the starboard side. As I was about aft of the after hatch I saw that the object was going to strike close to SMITH, so I hollered, "Run SMITH run". At about the same time I hollered to SMITH I felt the blast of the explosion hit the ship and it knocked me to my knees. As soon as I regained my feet I heard SMITH holler "Help, help, help", and I knew he had been hit. I saw that he was lying on his side with his hands sort of holding his hip together. There was a wide open wound on his hip. I continued running down the starboard passage, heading for the Sick Bay to get the doctor. I saw GOWINS pharmacist's mate third class coming up the ladder from C-203-L. I told him to get out to the fantail as soon as he could as SMITH was hurt. Then I continued forward heading for the chief's quarters to inform the chief pharmacist's mate. At about the time I was even with the galley I heard them pass the word for him, so I sat down."11 November 1944
Upkeep.12 November 1944
Upkeep. Shifted berth to starboard side of Lyman.13 November 1944
Upkeep. Held memorial services on board for SMITH, Roy (n), S1c. Received aboard for transfer to next port 6 officers, 21 enlisted men, and 500 bags of U.S. mail. Commander Escort Division 49 shifted his flag from Lyman to Reynolds.14 November 1944
1259 Got underway on signal and stood out. 1345 Commenced swinging ship for correction of magnetic compass while Reynolds and Lyman topped off fuel. 1515 Assumed station in column, normal order with Reynolds and Lyman. 1500 Commenced firing A/A practice. 1648 Knocked down sleeve with heavy well concentrated fire, and completed practice. 1710 Formed line abreast, interval 2,400 yards, and shaped course for Ulithi, West Caroline Islands.15 November 1944
As before enroute Ulithi.16 November 1944
As before enroute Ulithi. 0539 Increased interval to 2,800 yards. 0629 Obtained sound contact on port bow and left formation to develop contact. Unable to maintain contact inside 600 yards. 0701 Classified contact "fish". 0848 Resumed station. 1323 Closed interval to 2,000 yards. 1736 Closed interval to 1,600 yards. 1948 Increased interval to 2,000 yards.17 November 1944
0433 Changed course by simultaneous turn to left 60 degrees to avoid TG 38.3. 0445 Resumed base course. 0513 Sighted Pig Island, Ulithi dead ahead. 0814 Entered Mugai channel. 0838 Moored starboard side to port side USS Taluga (AO-62) to fuel. 0917 Completed fuelling. 1030 Got underway to shift berth. 1136 Anchored in berth 464. 1239 Transferred two enlisted passengers to SERON 10 for further transfer to their ship before she sailed. 1545 Transferred 6 officer passengers and 19 enlisted passengers to SERON 10 for distribution to various commands.
1630 Received one ensign aboard for duty. 1634 Shifted berth to go alongside USS LST 689, acting Fleet Post Office, in berth 117 to discharge 500 bags of mail. 1845 Two ensigns reported aboard for duty.18 November 1944
0811 Got underway. 0827 Anchored in berth 418. 1300 Transferred one Lieutenant to ComDesPac for further assignment. 1455 Received aboard 26 bags registered, 38 bags officer messenger, 215 bags unclassified mail for further transportation to units of TG's 30.7, 38.1, 38.2, and 38.4. 1526 Got underway with TU 30.8.14, USS Shipley Bay (CVE-85), USS Kwajelein (CVE-98), and USS Lake (DE-301) and stood out. OTC in USS Shipley Bay, Screen Commander in Lake. 1625 Conducted sortie patrol. 1642 Took station on port bow, speed 15 knots, zigzagging. Shaped course for ocean rendezvous.19 November 1944
As before. 2205 Maneuvered to pass clear of USS Pecos (AO-65) and escort.20 November 1944
0715 Effected rendezvous with TU's 30.8.1, 30.8.3, 30.8.6, and 30.8.7. OTC in USS Nehenta Bay (CVE-74). 1254 USS Oliver Mitchell (DE-417) came alongside to receive mail for TG 30.7. 1353 USS Oliver Mitchell cast off all lines and stood clear after having received mail.21 November 1944
0950 Ordered to go alongside and deliver mail to the following ships: USS Yorktown (CV-10), USS Boston (CA-69), USS Portland (CA-33), USS Stockham (DD-683), and USS Pasadena (CL-65), after which had only mail for TG 38.4 aboard. 1521 Rejoined TU 30.8.14. 1645 TU 30.8.14 completed operations and joined TU's 30.8.1, 30.8.3, 30.8.6, and 30.8.7. Kyne assumed station 4 in screen plan 57.22 November 1944
1214 Went alongside USS Chikaskia (AO-54) to fuel and to transfer TG 38.4 mail. 1255 Completed fuelling and transfer of mail. Took station in screen. 1502 TU 30.8.3 and TU 30.8.7 detached with screen and returned to port.23 November 1944
Steaming in supply area as before.24 November 1944
0540 Left formation with TU 30.8.14 to act independently during fuelling of TG 38.1. 1552 TU 30.8.14 rejoined TU's 30.8.1 and 30.8.6, and Kyne took station 2 in plan 57, USS Lamons (DE-743) screen commander.25 November 1944
Steaming in supply area as before. 1117 Went alongside USS Manatee (AO-58) to fuel. 1223 Completed fuelling and cast off from USS Manatee, having received very dirty diesel oil. Took station 1 in screen. 1540 Took screening station 2.26 November 1944
1018 Left formation with TU 30.8.14 to operate independently. 1819 Rejoined TU 30.8.1 and 30.8.6 and resumed station in screen.
27 November 1944
0939 Fire started in motor whaleboat from short circuit on battery terminals. 0940 Fire extinguished. 1448 Detached from TU 30.8.14 and ordered to proceed to TU 30.8.5 in vicinity for duty. 1503 Reported to CTG 30.8 in USS Aylwin (DD-335) for duty. Assigned station 3 in screen plan 55 by Commander Destroyer Division 2 in USS Farragut (DD-348), Screen Commander.28, 29 November 1944
Steaming as before in supply area.30 November 1944
0630 tankers formed line abreast for fuelling TG 38.3 while screen formed on 9,000 yard circle with No. 1 bearing 085T from guide and other screening ships spaced at 20° intervals on either bow. 1415 Completed operations and formed as before. At 1810 while steaming in station No. 3 (4065) of screen plan 55 at 14 knots and zigzagging according to plan 6, the Officer of the Deck, who was the ASW officer, and others saw a long slender object protruding from the water hard on the port bow, less than 15 yards from the ship. There was not time to set the depth charge pattern and make the attack. The Captain was summoned at once and ordered General Quarters. Report of object was made to OTC, who was CTG 30.8 in USS Aylwin (DD-355), suggesting possibility that it might be a periscope, and an emergency turn to port was ordered. The Captain assumed the conn. C.I.C. commenced plotting. A shallow pattern was ordered set on depth charges. Range was opened to about 1000 yards, but only wake could be obtained in closing original position. Range was opened again, speed was reduced to 10 knots and Mark X made ready to fire, but in closing no contact was made until 300 yards, when a faint return was obtained, but at this point the escort in station No. 5 came so close as to interfere with the approach, and since no data had been obtained from the faint contact, no charges were dropped. This escort was asked to keep clear.Range was again opened to 1,200 yards, and sound contact was made at 900 yards on a "very narrow" target. A deliberate attack was ordered. Initial report gave wake on right and ship was steadied on leading cut. Trace interpretation showed no clear wake, and bow attack was suggested, so 2° lead was applied, but range rate of 8 knots was shown, with no bearing change, so a stationary or retiring target was indicated. At 500 yards ship's head was steady on the center bearing of the target and the order to "fire by recorder" had been given. When indicated, the recorder operator ordered "fire", but the Mark X failed to fire. An instant later the vertical object was sighted again, close on the starboard bow. It passed within 20 yards of the ship down the starboard beam, showing no motion. Though ship was only making 10 knots orders were given to fire the shallow pattern of depth charges that was set up. The pattern was fired completely blanketing the object. On the Captain's orders the thirteenth charge was not fired as the pattern had already completely covered the area about the sighted object. A flare was dropped with the third charge rolled.
Range was opened, and no contact could be obtained in closing again. With the flare as a guide, approach was made on the last known position of the object. Sight contact was again obtained on the starboard
bow. The object was determined to be much too thick for a periscope and the way it bobbed up and down with the waves indicated it was floating. In addition it was considered that nothing but a log or root could have survived the depth charge attack, and target was classified as non-sub. Another run was made, confirming this classification, and the Captain ordered ship to rejoin formation.Investigation of failure of Mark X to fire showed a blown fuse in the AC circuit. Routine tests had been faithfully accomplished, and the circuits had tested satisfactorily in the morning this date. Personnel attempted to refire on AC rather than shifting to DC. Doctrine is now established on board to fire DC on initial attack and so continue until ordered to change.
1 December 1944
At sea in supply area steaming various courses with TG 30.8.5. 1235 Went alongside USS Neches to fuel. 1331 Completed fuelling and resumed normal screening station. 2120 USS Farragut (DD-348), screen commander in station 4 reported sonar contact. Unit took evasive action. 2140 Sonar contact non-sub; unit resumed base course.2 December 1944
Steaming as before.3 December 1944
0555 Deployed to fuel group of Task Force 38.0714 As previously directed by CTG 30.8, Kyne dropped out of formation and secured after control panel and port shaft to effect repairs on after board. 1123 Fuelling exercises completed. TG 30.8.5 formed to resume patrol in supply area. 1239 Kyne completed engine repairs. 1312 Kyne relieved Mitchell (DE-43) in screening station #2 A/S plan 54, as Mitchell struck whale and crushed sound head. 1430 Mitchell detached and ordered back to port. 1800 No. 2 main engine broke head studs on #3 unit. On removal of studs threads in head were found to be stripped eliminating possibility of effecting repairs at sea with no taps available. No. 2 engine out of commission. 1818 No. 1 main engine commenced throwing water all about engine room from expansion tank. Indications of cracked cylinder liner in one of 16 units or other casualty but no indication of basic casualty. Starboard shaft out of commission. Speed reduced to 10 knots. 1903 CTG 30.8 ordered Kyne to drop out of formation and effect repairs and rendezvous with unit December 4.4 December 1944
1257 Sonar contact. 1303 Contact classified non-sub. 1407 Effected rendezvous with TG 30.8.5 but cause of #1 engine casualty not yet located and no prospect of locating it quickly, as it had resolved to a process of pulling one cylinder at a time to investigate for cracked liner. 1444 In view of engine condition CTG 30.8 detached Kyne to return to port.5 December 1944
Steaming to port as before at 10 knots, starboard shaft inoperative.6 December 1944
0639 Entered Ulithi Atoll and anchored in berth No. 428 at 0744.7 December 1944
Anchored engaged in ships work.
8 December 1944
Granted availability with USS Nestor (ARB-6) and 0807 shifted berth to vicinity that ship which is anchored between berths 407 and 9.9 December 1944
0809 Got underway to go alongside Nestor. 0817 USS Zuni (ATF-95) came alongside to assist. 0930 Moored to starboard side of Nestor. Cause of casualty to No. 1 engine finally discovered to be cracked liner in No. 16 unit.10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 December 1944
Moored alongside Nestor undergoing repairs.16 December 1944
Strong wind and moderate sea developed. Carried away six mooring lines at various times during 4-8 watch. Commanding Officer Nestor desired to clear his side and requested tug service for Kyne. 1007 USS Sioux (ATF-75) came alongside, denting skin of ship sharply with anchor at 60-61 just above lube oil tanks. 1024 Cleared side of Nestor. 1106 Anchored in berth 28. During the maneuver tug stove in starboard side at frames 107-107 and at frame 125. Skin of ship was not broken, but due to damage water tight integrity of bulkhead at frame 125, second deck was damaged, and would not hold air test.17 December 1944
0747 Got underway and went back alongside Nestor.18, 19, 20, 21, 22 December 1944
Moored as before completing engineering repairs and upkeep.23 December 1944
0859 Got underway to fuel and obtain lube oil. 1432. Returned to vicinity of Nestor and anchored.24 December and 25 December 1944
Completed engine repairs and upkeep.26, 27 December 1944
Upkeep and awaiting orders.28 December 1944
0829 Shifted berth, went alongside USS Bangust (DE-739). 1030 Commander Escort Division 32 hauled down his flag on Bangust and raised his flag in Kyne.29, 30 December 1944
Awaiting orders and engaged in upkeep.31 December 1944
0645 Stood clear of Bangust and went alongside Swearer (DE-186) on adjacent berth. 1117 Anchored as Swearer got underway and stood clear.
WAR DIARY 1945 1 January 1945
This vessel assigned to Escort Division THIRTY-TWO, United States Pacific Fleet, and operating with Task Group 30.8 (Captain J. T. Acuff, USN, USS Welles (DD-628) Flagship). Zone time minus ten (-10) in effect. Anchored in Berth 9, Ulithi, West Caroline Islands, engaged in upkeep and awaiting orders.2 January 1945
Got underway in accordance with CTG 30.9 dispatch 312346 of December 1944 to join unit with USS Dyson (DD-572), USS Riddle (DE-185), the USS Housatonic (AO-35), and the USS Altamaha (CVE-18) 0654. Purpose of the operation was to give Housatonic experience in fuelling CVE type ships at sea. DD and DE's for screen. OTC in Altamaha, Dyson screen commander, ComCortDiv 32 in Kyne and ComCortDiv 44 in Riddle. Conducted sortie patrol in accordance with plan Baker, PacFlt Tactical Bulletin 3-41. Took stations in accordance with plan 53, USF10A, Kyne in 2, Dyson in 1, Riddle in 3. Steamed on course 065°T and pgc, 074 pstgc from MUGAI channel at 10 knots until 1210 when fuelling exercises were completed. Then reversed course at 15 knots. Screen countermarched. Unit returned to base. 1530 Went alongside USS Sepulga (AO-20) to top off fuel. 1609 Completed fuelling and shifted berth. 1639 Anchored in berth 9. 1900 Attended screen commanders conference on USS Dyson (DD-572) preparatory to sortie in forthcoming operation.
Positions: 1200 10 - 06.8 N 140 - 05.0 E 3 January 1945
1346 Got underway in accordance with CTG 30.9 dispatch 010037 of January 1945. 1434 Took departure with MANGEJANG I, abeam to starboard distance 1500 yards. Conducted sortie patrol in accordance with plan Baker, PacFlt Tactical Bulletin 3-41. USS Kyne, USS Bangust (DE-739), USS Weaver (DE-741), USS Stockham (DD-683), and USS Dyson (DD-572) screening TU 30.8.4., with Screen Commander in Dyson and OTC in USS Mantahala (AO-60). 1545 Assumed station 3 in special bent line screen Stockham in station 1 and screen on either side on line of bearing 10 degrees abaft beam of Stockham distance 3000 yards. Purpose of this screen to provide TU with A/S protection during A/A firing exercises. It proved impractical from the point of view of giving screen chance for A/A firing as escorts endangered each other in fall of shrapnel, several particles from 5" bursts of Stockham falling on Kyne. Some practice was obtained by the escorts maneuvering violently to bring battery to bear as planes flew across ahead, but practically all firing was thus at extreme ranges for 3" guns. 1604 Completed exercises having expended 66 rounds 3"/50 cal. ammunition, 96 rounds 40mm ammunition, and 600 rounds 20 mm ammunition. 1800 Set all clocks back one hour to zone -9 time. Unit assumed formation 0-2, screen took stations according to plan 54 as Weaver dropped out to stand by USS Cache (AO-67) who had an engineering casualty. 1925 Bangust was ordered to relieve Weaver, and Weaver rejoined screen.
Positions: 2000 10 - 56.0 N 139 - 54.0 E 4 January 1945
Cruising as before. 1053 USS Cache rejoined unit. USS Bangust
resumed station in screen. 1129 Received orders to go alongside USS Chickaskia (AO-54) and relieve her of her mail. 1132 Proceeded in accordance with orders. Chickaskia desired we come along windward side but due to heavy quartering sea it was very difficult to get into good position. Messenger carried away twice and finally when towing hawser was secured at 1224 the tanker lost the bitter end which dragged astern and endangered propellers. However, by maintaining speed and not maneuvering radically we slowly recovered 10" hawser. Meanwhile maneuvered into position to approach lee side of tanker. 1419 Secured tow hawser and commenced receiving mail and two passengers, correspondents for YANK magazine. 1517 Completed receiving mail and passengers and cast off, resumed station in screen. 1530 USS Chickaskia left formation to return to port due to gyro trouble. Bangust was detailed as screen.
Positions: 0800 12 - 39.0 N 137 - 37.0 E 1200 13 - 03.0 N 136 - 5.0 E 2000 14 - 19.0 N 135 - 33.0 E 5 January 1945
Steaming as before. 0850 Conducted test firing of 24 3"/50 Mk. 45 fuses, results normal.
Positions: 0800 16 - 12.0 N 133 - 48.0 E 1200 16 - 21.0 N 132 - 58.0 E 2000 16 - 58.0 N 131 - 16.0 E 6 January 1945
Effected rendezvous with CTG 30.8 and units in company. 0921 Detached from TU 30.8.4 and reported to screen commander of TU 30.8.1 for duty. Took station #4 in screen. 1150 On orders went alongside USS Neches (AO-47) to transfer mail and passengers from USS Chickaskia (AO-54) for further transfer to units of Task Force 38. 1329 Resumed station #4 in screen. 1339 Detached from TU 30.8.1, escorting USS Saugatuck to TU 30.8.3. 1412 Reported to CTU 30.8.3 for duty, assigned station #4 in screen, assumed station. Screen commander ComDesDiv2 in USS Farragut (DD-348), guide USS Guadalupe (AO-32). 1807 USS Saugatuck (AO-75) assumed guide.
Positions: 0800 17 - 33.0 N 129 - 23.0 E 1200 17 - 15.0 N 129 - 20.0 E 2000 17 - 35.0 N 130 - 30.0 E 7 January 1945
Steaming as before.
Positions: 0800 17 - 26.0 N 128 - 39.0 E 1200 17 - 40.0 N 128 - 46.0 E 2000 18 - 28.0 N 127 - 19.0 E
8 January 1945
0810 Assumed fuelling disposition preparatory to fuelling units of Task Force 38. Formed screen on circle 8, spacing 22° screen commander in station #2, 11° to port of dead ahead, Kyne in station #4, guide on circle 3. 1249 Detached from screen of TU 30.8.3, escorting USS Saugatuck (AO-75) to rendezvous with TU 30.8.1. 1323 Reported to ComCortDiv 49, screen commander of TU 30.8.1 for duty, assigned station 7 in screen plan 57 and assumed station. 1510 Assumed station (5108) in full circular screen of TU 30.8.12, axis 000°T, spacing of escorts 36°, screen commander ComCortDiv 49.
Positions: 0800 18 - 59.0 N 125 - 05.0 E 1200 19 - 14.0 N 125 - 41.0 E 2000 19 - 22.0 N 126 - 54.0 E 9 January 1945
Steaming as before. 0953 Set Condition I; unidentified aircraft in vicinity. 0958 Aircraft identified as friendly; set condition II. 1914 Left formation to investigate sonar contact; set condition I, while formation executed emergency turn. 1932 Decided that contact had been off wake of adjacent ship maneuvering in accordance with zigzag plan, thus bringing wake ahead of us. Classified contact non-sub and resumed station in screen.
Positions: 0800 17 - 43.0 N 128 - 28.0 E 1200 17 - 28.0 N 128 - 58.0 E 2000 17 - 24.0 N 128 - 47.0 E 10 January 1945
0500 USS Waterman (DE-740) left formation to investigate sonar contact while formation executed emergency turn. 0517 USS Weaver (DE-741) was detailed to assist Waterman and left formation. 0730 TU 30.8.6 and TU 30.8.9 reported for duty and were assigned stations. 0900 ComDesRon 1 relieved ComCortDiv 49 as screen commander and screen assumed stations on circle 7, Kyne in station (7130). 1108 Waterman and Weaver rejoined on orders of CTG 30.8.12 having classified contact as possible sub. 1157 Went alongside USS Enoree (AO-69) to fuel. 1258 Completed fuelling, cast off and resumed station in screen. 1749 USS Bangust (DE-739) came up astern to deliver mail. 1753 Bangust stood clear, delivery completed.
Positions: 0800 18 - 00.0 N 130 - 03.0 E 1200 17 - 44.0 N 130 - 10.0 E 2000 16 - 30.0 N 130 - 53.0 E
11 January 1945
Steaming as before. 1815 Assumed station (7155) in screen.
Positions: 0800 14 - 08.0 N 131 - 35.0 E 1200 13 - 36.8 N 131 - 51.0 E 2000 13 - 28.5 N 131 - 28.0 E 12 January 1945
0700 USS Waterman (DE-740) left formation to investigate sonar contact. Formation executed emergency turn. 0702 USS Weaver (DE-741) left formation to assist. 0708 Contact classified non-sub, Waterman and Weaver resumed stations. 1713 USS Swearer (DE-186) in station (7335) left formation to investigate sonar contact assisted by USS Riddle (DE-185). Formation made emergency turn. 1730 Contact classified non-sub, Swearer and Riddle resumed stations. It is noted that a characteristic of steaming with a full circular screen is apt to be the obtaining of numerous contacts from the wakes of adjacent ships whose position may be close to the bow, depending on zigzag or course being steered at the time. Particularly good echoes are obtained on the knuckles made by escorts as they make course changes, and it will be noted that most contacts thus occur at the time of or soon after course changes.
Positions: 0800 12 - 58.0 N 130 - 53.0 E 1200 13 - 22.0 N 131 - 31.0 E 2000 13 - 39.0 N 131 - 58.0 E 13 January 1945
Steaming as before. 1130 Detached from TU 30.8.12 and attached to TU 30.8.6 which formed with TU 30.8.11, authority Commander Third Fleet dispatch 121935 of January 1945. ComDesRon 1 assumed command of screen of combined TU 30.8.11 and TU 30.8.6, herein after called TU 30.8.11. Kyne took station 2, plan 57. 2235 USS Dale (DD-353) left screen to go ahead and make advance preparations for rendezvous with TU 30.8.15. ComCortDiv 44 in USS Riddle (DE-185) directed to assume command of screen. Assumed station #2 of plan 56.
Positions: 0800 13 - 24.0 N 130 - 19.0 E 1200 13 - 11.0 N 130 - 53.0 E 2000 12 - 11.0 N 128 - 06.0 E 14 January 1945
Steaming as before. 0545 Set Condition I, unidentified aircraft in vicinity. 0657 All clear. 0819 Riddle left screen to pass mail. Kyne assumed station #1 of plan 55. 0838 Riddle resumed station, Kyne took station 2 of plan 56. 0928 Entered Leyte Gulf. It was necessary to steer various courses at various speeds to Leyte Gulf awaiting the delayed
rendezvous of TU 30.8.15, and also avoiding A/S operation (operation "observant" etc.) being conducted by two destroyers and one destroyer escort in the gulf. 1512 Effected rendezvous with TU 30.8.15 and shaped course for Surigao Strait. ComDesRon 1 in USS Dale rejoined and resumed command of screen. 1828 Passed Binet Point, Leyte, P.I. abeam to starboard 3 miles, entered Mindinao Sea. 2220 USS Housatonic (AO-35) had engineering casualty, ordered to return to San Pedro Harbor, Leyte, with USS Wesson (DE-184) as escort. Kyne assumed station #2 in A/S plan 56.
Positions: 0800 10 - 41.0 N 126 - 13.0 E 1200 10 - 51.0 N 125 - 23.0 E 2000 09 - 41.0 N 125 - 01.2 E 15 January 1945
Steaming as before. 0210 USS Swearer (DE-186) and USS Riddle (DE-185) in stations 4 and 6, left formation to investigate surface radar contact close aboard. 0233 Swearer and Riddle rejoined without having located any object. 0317 Saw six faintly but distinctly luminous parallel streaks in water crossing course ahead of ship, possibly wakes of torpedoes fired from port bow of formation which missed ahead of formation. Phenomenon witnessed by Commanding Officer, Officer of the Deck, lookouts, and others aboard. 0321 Bangust in station 3 of plan 56 reported hearing two underwater explosions, which she later revised to an estimate that she had been struck by two "dud" torpedoes. 0430 Entered Sulu Sea. 0721 Unidentified aircraft approached from out of the sun, closed to seven miles and retired. Set condition I. 0734 All clear, set condition II. 0751 USS Dale left screen to fuel. ComCortDiv 32 in Kyne directed to assume command of screen and did so. Kyne assumed station 1 of plan 55. 0937 Assumed station 1 of plan 56. 0944 USS Dale resumed station in screen and ComDesRon 1 resumed command of screen. 1143 Commenced steaming various courses and speeds to clear large formation of ships approaching from opposite direction.
Positions: 0800 09 - 14.0 N 122 - 28.0 E 1200 09 - 57.0 N 121 - 28.0 E 2000 11 - 26.0 N 121 - 19.0 E 16 January 1945
Steaming as before. 1123 Effected rendezvous with TU 30.8.10 with CTG 30.8 as OTC. 1145 Detached from screen of TU 30.8.11, including TUs 30.8.6 and TU 30.8.15, and reported to CTU 30.8.10 for duty. ComCortDiv 32 in Kyne directed to take command of screen of TU 30.8.10. USS Nantahala (AO-60) relieved CTG 30.8 as OTC when all escorts of TU 30.8.10 were assigned as screen to TU 30.8.11 etc and four DE's of TU 30.8.11 were assigned as screen for TU 30.8.10. Course was shaped for Leyte Gulf via Surigao Strait. 1600 Entered Sulu Sea. 1915 Obtained sonar contact and unit made emergency turn. 1922 Contact classified as coral shoal, resumed station.
Positions: 0800 13 - 05.0 N 120 - 11.0 E 1200 13 - 17.5 N 119 - 15.0 E 2000 12 - 15.0 N 120 - 49.0 E 17 January 1945
Steaming as before. 1642 USS Bangust (DE-739) left screen to investigate numerous small sailing craft, which were identified as friendly native craft. Bangust resumed station. 1800 Entered Mindanao Sea. 2250 USS Swearer (DE-186) left screen to investigate surface contact as unit made emergency turn. 2258 Contact identified as native schooner, Swearer resumed station.
Positions: 0800 09 - 51.0 N 122 - 01.0 E 1200 09 - 04.0 N 122 - 29.5 E 2000 09 - 06.0 N 123 - 58.0 E 18 January 1945
Steaming as before. 0200 Entered Surigao Strait. 0520 Bangust left screen to investigate surface target, which proved to be US Naval patrol craft, Bangust rejoined. 0600 Entered Leyte Gulf. 0940 USSAppalachian (AGC-1), USS Mount Olympus (AGC-8) with USS Charles J. Badger (DD-657) and USS Wickes (DD-578) joined formation and were assigned stations. Unit steamed various courses and speeds in Leyte Gulf awaiting permission of operational control authority to proceed in accordance with orders. 1142 Permission granted, proceeding to Ulithi, West Caroline Islands. 1238 Charles J. Badger and Wickes detached to return to Tacloban. 1706 Set condition I, unidentified aircraft in vicinity. 1715 Set condition II, aircraft identified as friendly.
Positions: 0800 10 - 49.0 N 125 - 23.5 E 1200 10 - 32.0 N 120 - 26.2 E 2000 10 - 37.0 N 127 - 07.0 E 19 January 1945
Steaming as before.
Positions: 0800 10 - 30.0 N 129 - 30.0 E 1200 10 - 30.0 N 130 - 22.0 E 2000 10 - 38.0 N 132 - 05.0 E 20 January 1945
Steaming as before. 1335 CTF 31 in USS Mount Olympus (AGC-8) Assumed duties of OTC while USS Nantahala (AO-60) TBS out of commission. 1545 Nantahala resumed duties of OTC. 2300 Effected rendezvous with USS
Seid (DE-256) and USS Crouter (DE-11). 2317 USS Taluga (AO-62), USS Cimarron (AO-22), and USS Aucilla (AO-56), detached, to proceed to Ulithi, West Caroline Islands with Seid and Crouter as escorts at higher than TU 30.8.10 speed.
Positions: 0800 10 - 40.0 N 134 - 11.5 E 1200 10 - 40.0 N 134 - 54.0 E 2000 10 - 34.0 N 136 - 32.0 E 21 January 1945
Steaming as before. 1017 Sighted Ulithi. 1127 Commenced steaming various courses circling north end of Atoll and approaching Mugai Channel from between Pau and Falalop Islands. 1316 Set up barrier patrol to screen entrance of unit though Mugai Channel. 1440 Entered lagoon. 1521 Anchored in berth 8.
Positions: 0800 10 - 19.0 N 139 - 04.0 E 1200 10 - 07.5 N 139 - 46.0 E 22 January 1945
0825 Shifted anchorage to berth 416. Commenced upkeep. 1551 Fire broke out in forward engine room. 1559 Fire extinguished. Investigation showed that fire was caused by an unauthorized plug in the fire and flushing main, apparently installed by the builder. Threads of this plug had rusted out and plug gave way under pressure, so that stream of water sprayed on forward ships service control board causing shorting and arcing across contacts and consequent burning out of much of the panel. 1800 Light and power restored forward by casualty power connectors. 1850 USS Warrnalanget (YTB-385) moored alongside to port to see movies. 2200 Warrnalanget cast off.23 January 1945
1539 Got underway. 1556 Moored port side to starboard side of USS Dewey (DD-349), moored port side to port side of USS Prairie (AD-15). Commenced tender availability.24 January 1944
1325 USS Humphreys (APD-12) moored alongside to starboard, starboard side to. 1520 Dewey got underway and stood clear of Prairie while Kyne moored alongside, port side to port, tug assisting.25 January 1945
Moored as before engaged in upkeep and effecting repairs.26 January 1945
1244 With two tugs outboard of Humphreys breasting nest away from Prairie, USS Farragut (DD-348) backed in alongside Prairie and moored port side to port of Prairie. 1300 Kyne moored port side to starboard side of Farragut.
27 January 1945
0700 Completed tender availability. 0730 Humphreys got underway and stood clear. 0746 Kyne got underway and shifted berth. 0810 Anchored in berth 115.28 January 1945
0808 Got underway. 0850 Moored starboard side to port side of USS Camel (IX-113) in berth 432 to fuel. 1028 Completed fuelling, having received 59, 296 gals. Navy standard Diesel. 1029 Got underway. 1044 Moored starboard side to port of USS Megrez (AK-126) in berth 433, to take on lube oil. 1136 Completed taking on lube oil, got underway and stood over to ammunition ship anchorage and lay to awaiting orders to go alongside USS Mt Baker (AE-4). 1347 Went alongside Mt Baker in berth 547, starboard side to port, and commenced receiving ammunition. 1640 Completed receiving ammunition, got underway. 1737 Moored starboard side to port of USS Bangust (DE-739) in berth 419.29 January 1945
1030 Commander Escort Division 32 shifted his pennant from Kyne to Bangust. 1047 Got underway. 1110 Anchored in berth 115; placed ship on 24 hours notice to get underway in accordance with CTG 50.9 orders.30, 31 January 1945
Anchored as before engaged in upkeep.1 February 1945
2, 3, 4 February 1945
This vessel is assigned to Escort Division THIRTY-TWO, United States Pacific Fleet. Anchored in berth 115, Ulithi, West Caroline Islands. Keeping zone minus ten (-10) time and engaged in maintenance and upkeep on 24 hours notice.5 February 1945
Commander Escort Division 32 reported to Commander Fifth Fleet for duty, assigned to CTG 50.8, for operational control. 24 hours notice expired. Placed ship on 4 hours notice.6 February 1945
Anchored as before, awaiting orders, engaged in upkeep.7 February 1945
Anchored as before, awaiting orders to get underway, engaged in upkeep.8 February 1945
0621 Got underway and went to southern anchorage to pick up freight from USS Blue (DD-744), delivered to her by mistake. 0855 Stood out Mugai Channel and took up sortie patrol station #10, plan Baker, PacFlt Conf. letter 3-42, ten escorts. 1000 TU 50.8.20 made sortie from Ulithi in accordance with CTG 50.8 Basic Operations Plan No. 8/P/1-44 and operation order 8/0/1