USS Drum (SS-228)

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Seventh War Patrol

August 16, 1943 - October 6, 1943

Commanding Officer - Lieutenant Commander B.F. McMahon

Drum War Patrol Seven

Sinkings and Damages - USS Drum (SS-228) War Patrol Seven

Date Name
of Vessel
Type
of Vessel
Tonnage
JANAC
Tonnage
Alden
Location Assessment
JANAC
Assessment
Alden
28 August 1943 Yamagiri Maru Passenger/Cargo 6,438 6,438 1-30S, 148-35E - Damage Confirmed
8 September 1943 Hakutetsu Maru #13 Cargo 1,334 1,334 2-44S, 141-36E Sunk Sunk

Award of Submarine Combat Insignia for this patrol is authorized.

Submarine Combat Insignia

(A) Prologue
(B) Narrative
(C) Weather
(D) Tidal Information
(E) Navigational Aids
(F) Ship Contacts
(G) Aircraft Contacts
(H) Attack Data
(I) Mines
(J) Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics
(K) Major Defects and Damage
(L) Radio
(M) Radar
(N) Sound Gear and Sound Conditions
(O) Density Layers
(P) Health, Food, and Habitability
(Q) Personnel
(R) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used
(S) Duration
(T) Factors of Endurance Remaining
(U) Remarks


(A) Prologue

Returned from sixth war patrol 26 July 1943. Normal refit by the Submarine Repair Unit, assisted by U.S.S. FULTON, at Brisbane, Australia. Port motor field interlock replaced. Wiped. Ready for sea: 16 August 1943.

(B) Narrative

16 August
925 (K) Underway from alongside U.S.S. FULTON.
1130-1330 Conducted sound listening test in Moreton Bay, Australia.
1450 Fired 16 rounds of 4"/50 caliber and 120 rounds of 20 mm ammunition at a towed target.
1645 Anchored at examination point in Moreton Bay.
1820 Underway in company with HMAS GOULBURN, (J-167) and U.S.S. BOWFIN and U.S.S. TUNA.
2135 Made trim dive near point VAN.
2230-2340 Conducted night radar runs.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 27-20.0 S. LONG. 153-14.0 E.
DIST: 30.0
FUEL: 146.0
17 August
0735-0840 (K) Conducted submerged approach on HMAS GOULBURN.
1237-1330 Made successful dive to 320 feet.
1915-1955 Conducted night radar approach on HMAS GOULBURN.
2350 Left the training group and proceeded independently via point POND.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 25-50.0 S. LONG. 154-50.0 E.
DIST: 212.7
FUEL: 1880
18 August
Conducted three training dives, enroute point MILL.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 22-12.5 S. LONG. 154-31.0 E.
DIST: 288.1
FUEL: 2581
19 August
1900 (K) Effected rendezvous with U.S.S. COUCAL in Lat. 15-20.0 S., Long. 153-15.0 E.
1908 Exchanged recognition signals with U.S.S. POMPON, on opposite course.
1940-2150 Conducted night radar runs on COUCAL, enroute Jomard Entrance.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 17-10.0 S. LONG. 153-45.5 E.
DIST: 346.0
FUEL: 3479
20 August
AM Conducted two submerged approaches on COUCAL.
PM Conducted two night radar runs on COUCAL. COUCAL reported that a DF report put a Japanese submarine inside Jomard Entrance. Sent a dispatch to CTF-72 concerning this report.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 13-06.0 S. LONG. 152-36.0 E.
DIST: 294.3
FUEL: 2817
21 August
0635 (K) Sighted land to westward of Jomard Entrance. COUCAL reported that she believed the DF report of yesterday in error. Received no conformation of it from CTF-72. Decided to carry out fueling as planned.
0730 Entered Jomard Entrance.
0900 Commenced fueling from COUCAL in Lat. 11-04.0 S., Long. 152-13.0 E.
1100 Received 13,264 gallons of fuel; filled with fresh water; topped off with stores and obtained several necessary items from COUCAL.
1115 Underway to the northward in company of COUCAL.
1255 Submerged to give COUCAL an hour of sound training.
1445 Surfaced and parted company with COUCAL.
1454 Submerged during daylight from now on.
1933 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 10-57.0 S. LONG. 152-09.0 E.
DIST: 238.6
FUEL: 1888
22 August
0100 (K) Set clocks to minus eleven (-11) zone time.
ALL TIMES HEREAFTER ARE "LOVE"
0545 Submerged.
1948 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 9-58.0 S. LONG. 153-11.0 E.
DIST: 101.2
FUEL: 552
23 August
0604 (L) Submerged.
1610 Sighted a large two or four engined monoplane, distant 5 miles (Aircraft Contact No. 1) (Lat. 7-52.0 S., Long. 154-05.0 E.)
1946 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 8-00.0 S. LONG. 154-05.0 E.
DIST: 183.8
FUEL: 2045
24 August
0325 (L) Sighted Buka Island bearing 045°(T), distant 35 miles.
0525 Submerged.
0800 Sighted smoke bearing 005°(T), distant 10 miles. (Contact No. 1) (Lat. 5-07.5 S., Long. 154-11.0 E.). During the morning, this developed into a patrol boat, echo ranging on 18 kilocycles, patrolling on east-west courses, midway between Green Island and Cape Henpan. He never approached closer than about 7 miles.
1145 Lost contact with patrol boat.
1947 Surfaced.
2350 Sighted an aircraft flare in the vicinity of the Buka - New Ireland pass. This may have been from a "Black Cat".
1200 POSIT: LAT. 5-00.0 S. LONG. 154-19.5 E.
DIST: 190.6
FUEL: 1988
25 August
0552 (L) Submerged.
1950 Surfaced.
During the evening, we passed about five miles north of Malum Islands, having been set southward, but did not sight them.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 3-08.0 S. LONG. 155-03.0 E.
DIST: 179.6
FUEL: 1534
26 August
0558 (L) Submerged.
Found a leaky blow valve in the air flask of the torpedo in #5 tube. Recharged it, and decided that we may unload it through the muzzle tomorrow. If we don't shoot, we shall have to replace it with a tight torpedo the following day.
2020 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-25.0 S. LONG. 152-30.0 E.
DIST: 175.6
FUEL: 1468
27 August
0545 (L) Submerged between New Hanover and Mussau Islands. The sea is glassy, the visibility excellent.
0845 Sighted two float biplanes ("Daves") headed for Kavieng. (Aircraft Contact No. 2) (Lat. 2-02.0 S., Long. 149-54.0 E.)
1000 Sighted another "Dave" also headed toward Kavieng. (Aircraft Contact No. 3) (Lat. 2-01.0 S., Long. 149-50.0 E.)
1045 Sighted smoke bearing 163°(T) distant 30,000 yards (Contact No. 2) (Lat. 2-01.0 S., Long. 149-48.0 E.) This contact later developed into a two ship convoy with a single escort echo-ranging on 18 kilocycles. One steamer was an MFM type, the other an MMF, both small, and smoking heavily. When first sighted these ships appeared to be on an easterly course and consequently passing well clear. No attempt was made to close them.
1120 Sighted still another "Dave" headed for Kavieng (Aircraft Contact No. 4) (Lat. 2-00.0 S., Long. 149-46.0 E.)
1135 Sighted a type Zero float plane ("Rufe") in a glide toward us. Went deep to avoid detection, but no bombs fell. (Aircraft Contact No. 5) (Lat. 2-00.0 S., Long. 149-45.0 E.)
1225 Upon returning to periscope depth, discovered that the convoy was on a northerly course going from Tingwon to the eastward of Mussau. It was now too late to close them. The great range at which the smoke was sighted had led us to believe they were not closing us. Their speed was about 8 knots.
1545 Sighted smoke bearing 160°(T), distant 50,000 yards (Contact No. 3) (Lat. 1-49.0 S., Long. 149-37.0 E.) Commenced tracking and estimated the course to be 310°(T), speed 7 knots. Determined the convoy to contain at least four ships with two escorts pinging on 18 kilocycles. Could not close them for a daylight attack.
2019 Surfaced, and commenced closing the convoy.
2230 Made radar contact at 17,550 yards. Commenced the approach.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-56.0 S. LONG. 149-43.0 E.
DIST: 166.6
FUEL: 1395
28 August
0030 (L) Manned battle stations (Attack No. 1) (Lat. 1-30.0 S., Long. 148-35.0 E.)
0054-15" The after escort, broad on the starboard bow, range 3000 yards, turned on a small searchlight.
0054-30" Fired #3 tube.
0054-37" Fired #4 tube.
0054-44" Fired #5 tube.
0054-51" Fired #6 tube.
0055 Submerged, with the escort about 2500 yards away, still showing his light. Shifted targets to the next ship in the convoy. (Attack No. 1A) (Lat. 1-30.0 S., Long. 148-35.0 E.)
0055-10" Fired #2 tube.
0055-20" Fired #1 tube.
0056-41" Heard #4 torpedo hit.
0056-50" Heard #5 torpedo hit.
0057 First of three depth charges, close, knocking small bits of cork loose, as we pass 230 feet.
0058-30" Heard #2 torpedo hit.
0100 Five depth charges, close, but overhead. Two vessels echo-ranging, and staying right with us, as we evade on southerly to southwesterly courses.
0111 Three depth charges, close.
0113 One more.
0142 Three more, farther away.
0208 Seven this time, still farther.
0226 Five in the last barrage, distant. A total of twenty seven charges were dropped, but they caused no damage.
0515 Surfaced and cleared the area to the westward. There was no opportunity to regain contact for further attacks.
0606 Submerged.
2020 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-43.0 S. LONG. 147-58.0 E.
DIST: 116.5
FUEL: 843
29 August
0616 (L) Submerged.
0858 Sighted smoke bearing 283°(T), distant 20,000 yards. (Contact No. 4) (Lat. 1-32.0 S., Long. 146-02.0 E.). Commenced the approach.
0922 Manned battle stations submerged. (Attack No. 2) (Lat. 1-32.0 S., Long. 145-59.0 E.)
0959-47" Fired #1 tube.
0959-55" Fired #2 tube.
1000-02" Fired #5 tube.
All missed.
1006-42" One "end of run" explosion, which jarred the boat considerably.
2024 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-31.5 S. LONG. 145-55.5 E.
DIST: 124.9
FUEL: 890
30 August
0647 (L) Submerged.
2030 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-24.0 S. LONG. 144-07.5 E.
DIST. 127.7
FUEL: 782
31 August
0620 (L) Submerged fifteen miles off the coast of New Guinea in Long. 143° E.
0800 Sighted the masts of a small coastal steamer close inshore, out of reach. (Contact No. 5) (Lat. 3-07.0 S., Long. 143-05.0 E.).
1400 Sighted a small MMF steamer with a deck cargo, similar to Hoko Maru, 1514 tons. (Contact No. 6) (Lat. 2-59.0 S., Long. 143-00.0 E.). The minimum range was 8000 yards.
2025 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 3-00.0 S. LONG. 143-04.0 E.
DIST: 95.7
FUEL: 325
1 September
0624 (L) Submerged.
Patrolled in the vicinity of 3° S., 143° E. The peaks and other landmarks are extremely difficult to identify, Kairiru Island is the only reliable point in this locality.
2030 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 3-00.0 S. LONG. 142-57.0 E.
DIST: 95.6
FUEL: 319
2 September
0631 (L) Submerged.
2037 Surfaced.
Sighted searchlights during the evening in the vicinity of But and Dagua; and a bright glow in the sky near Wewak.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-57.0 S. LONG. 143-21.0 E.
DIST: 92.5
FUEL: 320
3 September
0430 (L) More searchlights along the New Guinea coast.
0625 Submerged.
2030 Surfaced.
Decided to shift operations to a point between Hollandia and Aitape, and close the coast there.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 3-01.0 S. LONG. 143-01.0 E.
DIST: 87.4
FUEL: 344
4 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
Closed to about four miles from the coast and patrolled parallel to it.
2030 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-52.0 S. LONG. 141-47.0 E.
DIST: 91.7
FUEL: 320
5 September
0627 (L) Submerged.
Again closed the coast to about four miles. Saw the smoke of two or three fires in the jungle, but no other evidence of civilization.
2032 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-50.0 S. LONG. 141-55.0 E.
DIST: 90.0
FUEL: 376
6 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
Closed to about two miles, slightly to the westward of our position of the last two days. Saw a few huts in a small clearing near the beach.
2037 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-51.0 S. LONG. 142-00.0 E.
DIST: 89.5
FUEL: 315
7 September
0628 (L) Submerged.
Closed to about three miles from the coast.
1202 Sighted one heavy bomber ("Sally"), headed to seaward from Hollandia. (Aircraft Contact No. 6) (Lat. 2-53.0 S., Long. 141-57.0 E.). During the afternoon, we saw about fifty or more huts, just off the beach between Long. 141-36.0 E. and 141-40.0 E. A few fires were visible, but no other signs of life could be seen.
2032 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-53.0 S. LONG. 141-57.0 E.
DIST: 97.0
FUEL: 365
8 September
0629 (L) Submerged.
1158 Sighted smoke bearing 288°(T), distant 16,000 yards. (Contact No. 7) (Lat. 2-44.0 S., Long. 141-37.0 E.) Commenced the approach.
1244 Manned battle stations submerged. (Attack No. 3) (Lat. 2-44.0 S., Long. 141-36.0 E.)
1336-02" Fired #7 tube.
1336-10" Fired #8 tube.
1336-18" Fired #9 tube.
1337-02" #8 torpedo hit about fifty feet abaft the MOT.
1338-35" Ship sank, leaving about 100 survivors in lifeboats, on rafts, and in the water. Commenced closing the area to survey the survivors. There were far more men aboard than are necessary to man a 300 tonner.
1407 Sighted a small freighter bearing 105°(T), headed westward, distant 10,000 yards. (Contact No. 8) (Lat. 2-45.0 S., Long. 141-38.0 E.). Commenced the approach. The freighter was a 1500-2000 ton MFM, well deck type, zig-zagging from 250°(T) to 290°(T) in four minute legs; and towing several small sampans.
1432 When the range was 800 yards, angle on the bow 25° starboard, the target zigged at the periscope, bombs commenced falling, and we went to 150 feet. (Aircraft Contact No. 7) (Lat. 2-45.0 S., Long. 141-40.0 E.)
1437 Returned to periscope depth and saw the freighter heading for the beach, range 3500 yards. It was obvious that he had known a submarine was present when he sighted the wreckage from our first attack; that he had sighted us; and that he would not give us a further favorable attack opportunity. He cruised parallel to the beach, close in, for the next hour and showed no inclination toward coming out to rescue the remaining survivors, some of whom were still in the water.
1600 Decided against expending any torpedoes on him and cleared the area.
1600 The Commanding Officer saw an irate member of the torpedoed ship's company kick one of his shipmates over the side of a lifeboat.
1615 Heard numerous small explosions, either gunfire or light aircraft bombs.
1800 All hands partook of an eight layer monster birthday cake which the galley baked for Lytle, G.W., C/1c.
2032 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-44.0 S. LONG. 141-37.0 E.
DIST: 96.2
FUEL: 344
9 September
0643 (L) Submerged.
2032 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-00.0 S. LONG. 141-50.0 E.
DIST: 108.9
FUEL: 537
10 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
2032 Surfaced.
The SJ radar obtained pips within 1000 yards several times, but nothing was seen except partly submerged tree trunks, upwards of one foot in diameter and thirty feet in length.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-50.0 S. LONG. 142-01.0 E.
DIST: 98.2
FUEL: 355
11 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
2032 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-38.0 S. LONG. 141-52.0 E.
DIST: 99.8
FUEL: 336
12 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
2032 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-45.5 S. LONG. 141-59.0 E.
DIST: 94.1
FUEL: 322
13 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
2036 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-04.5 S. LONG. 142-11.0 E.
DIST: 87.6
FUEL: 357
14 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
2034 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-32.0 S. LONG. 141-52.0 E.
DIST: 92.3
FUEL: 328
15 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
2034 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-39.0 S. LONG. 141-53.5 E.
DIST: 93.5
FUEL: 321
16 September
0630 (L) Submerged.
2034 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-28.0 S. LONG. 141-31.0 E.
DIST: 93.1
FUEL: 379
17 September
0625 (L) Submerged.
2035 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-05.0 S. LONG. 142-10.0 E.
DIST: 103.5
FUEL: 445
18 September
0625 (L) Submerged.
2033 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-08.0 S. LONG. 144-00.0 E.
DIST: 118.7
FUEL: 814
19 September
0613 (L) Submerged.
2020 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-00.0 S. LONG. 145-17.0 E.
DIST: 98.7
FUEL: 337
20 September
0613 (L) Submerged.
2021 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-04.0 S. LONG. 145-10.0 E.
DIST: 95.6
FUEL: 371
21 September
0623 (L) Submerged.
2031 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-05.0 S. LONG. 143-44.0 E.
DIST: 122.2
FUEL: 755
22 September
0622 (L) Submerged.
2030 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 2-21.5 S. LONG. 144-33.0 E.
DIST: 119.4
FUEL: 716
23 September
0100 (L) Received orders to terminate patrol.
0300 Passed Hermit Islands abeam to port, distant 13 miles. No enemy activity observed.
0615 Submerged.
2015 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-19.0 S. LONG. 146-13.0 E.
DIST: 142.2
FUEL: 1189
24 September
0558 (L) Submerged.
2003 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 00-17.0 S. LONG. 149-09.0 E.
DIST: 175.5
FUEL: 1941
25 September
0545 (L) Submerged.
1945 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 00-18.0 S. LONG. 152-06.0 E.
DIST: 182.5
FUEL: 2455
26 September
0552 (L) Submerged.
1924 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 1-53.0 S. LONG. 154-48.0 E.
DIST: 192.0
FUEL: 2477
27 September
0541 (L) Submerged.
1921 Surfaced.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 4-37.0 S. LONG. 156-01.0 E.
DIST: 183.5
FUEL: 2642
28 September
0553 (L) Submerged.
0730 Sighted a large monoplane on a northerly course, distant 8 miles. (Aircraft Contact No. 8) (Lat. 6-30.0 S., Long. 158-25.0 E.)
1512 Surfaced.
1536 Sighted a submarine bearing 327°(T), distant 8 miles in Lat. 6-41.0 S., Long. 158-47.0 E.
1540 Submerged to establish identity of submarine, since we expected to meet U.S.S. GATO today.
1600 Surfaced, identity established, and recognition signals fired. Proceeded in company with GATO to rendezvous.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 6-35.0 S. LONG. 158-36.0 E.
DIST: 198.5
FUEL: 2662
29 September
0255 (L) Sighted Ramos Island distant 35 miles.
0515 Exchanged recognition signals with escort, U.S.S. STRINGHAM (APD 6), and proceeded to Tulagi Harbor.
AM Sighted numerous friendly surface craft and aircraft.
1025 Moored to Yog 41 in Tulagi Harbor.
1100 Commenced defueling.
1200 GUARDFISH came alongside for fuel. Since the barge could not receive and give fuel at the same time, defueling secured until GUARDFISH is fueled. Gave GUARDFISH our excess fresh meat.
2145 Defueling completed transferred 36,156 gallons of diesel oil to Yog 41.
1200 POSIT: Tulagi Harbor, Solomon Islands
DIST: 247.7
FUEL: 2746
30 September
Received orders to give U.S.S. GATO our gyro south rotor, and await spare from Brisbane.
1323 (L) GATO underway with our gyro rotor.
1200 POSIT: Tulagi Harbor, Solomon Islands
DIST: 00.0
FUEL: 0
1 October
2200 (L) Spare rotor received, and gyro in commission.
1200 POSIT: Tulagi Harbor, Solomon Islands
DIST: 00.0
FUEL: 254
2 October
0855 (L) Underway in company with HMNZS MATAI.
1500 Submerged to give MATAI sound training.
1635 Surfaced, and proceeded independently.
1200 POSIT: LAT. 9-12.0 S. LONG. 159-35.5 E.
DIST: 35.0
FUEL: 268
3 October
1200 POSIT: LAT. 13-09.5 S. LONG. 157-35.0 E.
DIST: 314.6
FUEL: 3680
4 October
1200 POSIT: LAT. 18-20.0 S. LONG. 157-06.0 E.
DIST: 332.2
FUEL: 4642
5 October
1200 POSIT: LAT. 23-18.0 S. LONG. 154-33.0 E.
DIST: 348.0
FUEL: 4470
6 October
0250 (L) Sighted Caloundra Light bearing 270°(T), distant 35 miles.
0325 Sighted Cape Moreton Light bearing 250°(T), distant 20 miles.
0410 Sighted a ship in the vicinity of point VAN. He refused to answer challenge. Sent a dispatch to CTF-72 concerning this ship, which was not a submarine.
0600 Identified ship as a friendly merchantman. Obviously he had no reply to our challenge.
0930 Entered Brisbane River.
1030 Moored to U.S.S. FULTON.
DIST: 307.5
FUEL: 4820

(C) Weather

The area between the north coast of New Guinea and the Admiralty Islands was far more favorable for submerged operations than the areas nearer the equator. The average winds were force two, predominantly southeast to southwest. On five days the seas were calm and glassy; but during the remainder, sea conditions up to three were experienced.

Nearly every night extremely heavy lightning along the New Guinea coast was seen, which at times assumed the appearance of gunfire.

(D) Tidal Information

Variable currents up to one knot, setting southeast to southwest were noted well off the coast of New Guinea, south of the Admiralty Islands. A westerly set of one knot, close to the coast between Aitape and Hollandia, was encountered on four successive days.

(E) Navigational Aids

None sighted.

No uncharted shoals were discovered anywhere between the north coast of New Guinea and the Admiralty Islands, between longitudes 147° E. and 140° E.

(F) Ship Contacts

No. Date Time Lat.
South
Long.
East
Description Init. Range Min. Range Course Speed
RPM
Contact By Remarks
1. 27 Aug. 0800 (L) 5-07.5 154-11 Patrol Boat 20,000 yds. 14,000 yds. 090°
270°
- P Ping. on 18 Kcs.
2. 27 Aug. 1045 (L) 2-01.0 149-48 2 Freighters
1 Escort
30,000 yds. 16,000 yds. 015° 8 knots P Pass. east Mussau Is.
3. 27 Aug. 1545 (L) 1-49.0 149-37 5 Med. Freighters
2 Escorts
50,000 yds. 3000 yds. 310° 10 knots P Attacks No. 1 & 1A
4. 29 Aug. 0858 (L) 1-24.0 146-04 2000 ton Freighter 20,000 yds. 2000 yds. 110° 12 knots
115 RPM
P Attack No. 2
5. 31 Aug. 0800 (L) 3-07.0 143-05 Coastal Steamer 16,000 yds. 16,000 yds. 090° - P  
6. 31 Aug. 1400 (L) 3-00.0 143-04 1500 ton Freighter 14,000 yds. 8000 yds. 120° - P Deck cargo to Wewak
7. 8 Sept. 1158 (L) 2-44.0 141-37 3000 ton Freighter 16,000 yds. 1300 yds. 108° 8.5 knots
75 RPM
P Attack No. 3
8. 8 Sept. 1405 (L) 2-44.0 141-36 1500 ton Freighter 10,000 yds. 500 yds. 290° 9 knots P Zigged at periscope.

(G) Aircraft Contacts

No. Date Time Lat.
South
Long.
East
Description Range Course Altitude Contact By Remarks
1. 23 Aug. 1610 (L) 7-52 154-05 Multi Eng. Monoplane 10,000 yds. 315° Low P -
2. 27 Aug. 0845 (L) 2-02 149-54 2 Daves 24,000 yds. 125° 3000 ft. P Headed for Kavieng
3. 27 Aug. 1000 (L) 2-01 149-50 1 Dave 10,000 yds. 140° Low P Headed for Kavieng
4. 27 Aug. 1120 (L) 2-00 149-46 1 Dave 10,000 yds. 120° Low P Headed for Kavieng
5. 27 Aug. 1135 (L) 2-00 149-45 1 Rufe 4000 yds. - 500 ft. P Glided at Peris. No bombs dropped.
6. 7 Sept. 1202 (L) 2-53 141-57 1 Sally 10,000 yds. 315° 5000 ft. P -
7. 8 Sept. 1432 (L) 2-45 141-40 Unident. - - - Not Sight. Dropped several bombs.
8. 28 Sept. 0730 (L) 6-30 158-25 Large Monoplane 16,000 yds. 335° Low P Presumably friendly.

(H) Attack Data

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1 & 1A, Patrol No. 7

Time: 0054 (L) Date: 28 August 1943 Lat. 1-30 S., Long. 148-35 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Sighted smoke of four ships at 1545 (L), 27 August 1943; heard echo ranging on 18 kilocycles at 1850 (L); tracked submerged, and estimated the convoy's course 310°(T), speed 7 knots until dark. Surfaced, and closed, stopping every half hour to obtain bearings on the pinging, which continued throughout the engagement. Made radar contact at 2230 (L) at 17,550 yards, and determined convoy to consist of five medium freighters and two escorts. They were traveling with three freighters in line, with one ahead and one astern. One escort led the formation; while the other brought up the rear.

The visibility was good, with a glassy sea, bright starlight, and few horizon clouds. The merchantmen were sighted at 20,000 yards.

Ships Sunk:

None.

Ships Damaged:

(1) One medium sized freighter damaged and probably sunk.
(2) One medium sized freighter damaged.

Damage Determined By:

(1) Hearing two torpedo hits in first ship.
(2) Hearing one torpedo hit in the second ship.
(3) Hearing the "ship breaking up" noises from the vicinity of the attack.

Target Draft 16 feet, Course 310°, Speed 10 knots, Range #1 3200 yds. #1A 4400 yds.

Own Ship Data:

#1 Speed 15 knots, Course 030° to 035°, Depth surface, Angle 0°
#1A Speed 10 knots, Course 058° and 076°, Depth 30 feet, Angle 5°D

Type Attack

Tracked the convoy by radar, using a plot and the TDC. Determined the course as 310°(T), speed 10 knots. The convoy was not zig-zagging. Gained an attack position on the port beam of the leftmost ship, and took a course for a 100° port track at 15 knots, presenting less than a 10° angle on the bow to the target at all times.

Attack #1:

Fired four torpedoes, using radar ranges and bearings, at 3200 yards, torpedo run 3200 yards. Spread of 2°L, 1/2°L, 1/2°R, 2°R using offset dial, gave gyro angles from 2°R to 2°L, as the ship was swinging slowly to the right. Results: Two hits 2 min. 4 sec. and 2 min. 6 sec. after firing the second and third torpedoes.

Attack #1A:

Fired two more torpedoes, while swinging hard right and diving to avoid the escort bearing down from starboard, at a second ship beyond the first. Range by radar 4400 yards, torpedo run 4400 yards. Spread of 1/2°L, 0° using the offset dial, gave gyro angles of 26°L and 47°L. Results: One hit 3 min. 15 sec. after firing the first torpedo of this salvo.

Attack #1
Tubes Fired #3 #4 #5 #6 #2 #1
Track Angle 98°P 98°P 98°P 98°P 98°P 102°P
Gyro Angle 2°R 1°R 1°L 2°L 26°L 47°L
Depth Set 12 ft. 12 ft. 12 ft. 12 ft. 12 ft. 12 ft.
Power High High High High High High
Hit or Miss Miss Hit Hit Miss Hit Miss
Erratic? No No No No No No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A
Serial No. 19240 22566 23377 25027 20238 24789
Mark Exploder VI-1 VI-1 VI-1 VI-1 VI-1 VI-1
Serial No. 18017 6265 5186 5674 6394 6439
Actuation Set Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Actuation Actual - Contact Contact - Contact -
Mark Warhead XVI XVI XVI XVI XVI XVI
Serial No. 907 10194 894 892 9945 9931
Explosive TPX TPX TPX TPX TPX TPX
Firing Interval - 7 sec. 7 sec. 7 sec. - 10 sec.
Type Spread 2°L 1/2°L 1/2°R 2°R 1/2°L 0
DIVERGENT DIVERGENT

Sea conditions - flat, glassy, calm.

Overhaul activity - U.S.S. FULTON.


U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 7

Time: 1000 (L) Date: 29 August 1943 Lat. 1-32 S., Long. 145-59 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Single ship, unescorted, 2000 tons, MFM type.

Sighted smoke while submerged at 20,000 yards, in good visibility. Light wind, rippled surface.

Ships Sunk:

None.

Ships Damaged:

None.

Damage Determined By:

-

Target Draft 10 feet, Course 110°(T), Speed 12 knots, Range 2000 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 170°, Depth 64 feet, Angle 0°

Type Attack

Normal submerged approach, using bow tubes. The distance to the track was excessive, but the firing bearing was reached before the track could be closed. A torpedo run of 2000 yards on a 124°P track had to be accepted. Several good echo ranges were obtained inside 3000 yards. The spread, using the offset dial, was 1°L, 0°, and 1°R, a total of 200 feet.

The three torpedoes were tracked by sound to and beyond the target. The Commanding Officer saw heavy smoke from one torpedo pass under the target's counter, but did not see the other two torpedoes. One end of run explosion, jarring the boat considerably, occurred 5 min. 55 sec. after firing the first torpedo.

Attack #2
Tubes Fired #1 #2 #5
Track Angle 124°P 124°P 124°P
Gyro Angle 4°L 4°L 4°L
Depth Set 8 ft. 8 ft. 8 ft.
Power High High High
Hit or Miss Miss Miss Miss
Erratic? No Possibly Possibly
Mark Torpedo 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A
Serial No. 23943 24037 24793
Mark Exploder VI-1 VI-1 VI-1
Serial No. 17641 10822 17648
Actuation Set Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Actuation Actual - - -
Mark Warhead XVI XVI XVI
Serial No. 4057 597 6375
Explosive TNT TNT TNT
Firing Interval - 8 sec. 7 sec.
Type Spread 1°L 0 1°R
DIVERGENT

Sea conditions - light ripple.

Overhaul activity - U.S.S. FULTON.

Remarks:

Though the TDC setup checked well prior to firing, the misses are attributed to low target speed set on the TDC.


U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3, Patrol No. 7

Time: 1336 (L) Date: 8 September 1943 Lat. 2-44 S., Long. 141-36 E.

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Single ship, unescorted, 2900 tons, MFM type, split superstructure, well deck, similar to Senyo Maru.

Sighted smoke while submerged at 16,000 yards, in good visibility, light easterly wind, rippled surface.

Ships Sunk:

1 - 2900 tons

Ships Damaged:

None.

Damage Determined By:

Seeing one torpedo hit and watching the ship sink by the stern 93 seconds after the explosion. Two photographs were taken.

Target Draft 14 feet, Course 110°(T), Speed 8.5 knots, Range 1350 yds.

Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 030°(T), Depth 65 feet, Angle 0°

Type Attack

Normal submerged approach, tracking target with TDC, and obtaining echo ranges inside 3000 yards. Fired the stern tubes at a range of 1350 yards, using a spread of 2°L, 0°, 2°R introduced by the offset dial.

The second torpedo hit about fifty feet abaft the MOT, 52 seconds after firing. The third torpedo ran astern, but the first was not seen. Both the second and third torpedoes smoked heavily. There were no end of run explosions.

Attack #3
Tubes Fired #7 #8 #9
Track Angle 79°P 80°P 81°P
Gyro Angle 1°R 0 1°L
Depth Set 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft.
Power High High High
Hit or Miss Miss Hit Miss
Erratic? No No No
Mark Torpedo 14-3A 14-3A 14-3A
Serial No. 32525 24757 24795
Mark Exploder VI-1 VI-1 VI-1
Serial No. 17651 5002 6262
Actuation Set Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Magnetic
Contact
Actuation Actual - Contact -
Mark Warhead XVI XVI XVI
Serial No. Not Known 3651 883
Explosive TPX TPX TPX
Firing Interval - 8 sec. 8 sec.
Type Spread 2°L 0 2°R
DIVERGENT

Sea conditions - calm, light ripple.

Overhaul activity - U.S.S. FULTON.

(I) Mines

No remarks.

(J) Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics

The convoy of attacks no. 1 and no. 1A was formed with an escort leading, followed by a single maru, then three freighters in line, another single maru, and finally another escort. The two escorts echo ranged on 18 kilocyles from the time the convoy's smoke was sighted until contact was lost twelve hours later.

The pinging, during darkness, enabled us to maintain contact until the SJ radar picked the convoy up at 17,550 yards.

The trailing escort sighted us, turned toward, and showed a small searchlight about 15 seconds prior to firing, at a range of 3000 yards. No counter measures were employed prior to diving, however.

The depth charging, which followed the attack, was as prolonged as the Drum has undergone in several patrols, lasting one hour and thirty-five minutes, with a sound search lasting about three hours. At total of 27 charges were dropped.

During the first half hour of the counter attack, several effective runs were made. Echo ranging was used throughout the attacks, and no evidence of listening was noted. One escort used single pings, while the other employed double pings. Both used automatic keying, and never, even during an attack, was the interval less than 8 seconds.

The first depth charge exploded close aboard when the boat was at 230 feet, going down, and knocked small bits of cork loose. It is of interest to note that the Drum has never suffered any material damage, never had any appreciable cork dislodged, never had any lights broken, and never had any "sundry" loose items thrown clear of the bulkheads during seven patrols, and numerous depth charges.

The first eleven charges were in the "fairly close" category. The other sixteen were increasingly farther away.

Evasive tactics included silent running at 300 feet, using 80 RPM most of the time. The initial courses were about 50° to the left of the chosen retiring course. The retiring course was assumed as soon as the enemy began falling astern.

(K) Major Defects and Damage

(1.) Engineering

During the last refit, an effort was made to synchronize the TBT's both electrically and mechanically. Two days out, both TBT's flooded out, and were useless the remainder of the patrol. A more accurate system of bearing transmission is desirable, though this ship has never relied on the TBT bearings during an attack. Renewal of the selsyn units has been requested, and may solve the problem.

After functioning well for the first month, the pitometer succumbed to a series of attacks and passed away on 17 September 1943. The final diagnosis is:
1. Rotary seal bellows contact surface non-corrosion resistant.
2. Control unit contact arm slips on shaft due to broken lower stop rod on bellows assembly.
3. Lack of all spares now shows up in all parts of the system.
A new control unit design has been submitted to the U.S.S. FULTON.

Twice main engine exhaust valves froze in the closed position after deep submergence and/or depth charge attack. This is due to the 75° angle seat, and can not be prevented.

Salt water was found in the starboard reduction gear sump for the third successive patrol. It is believed the water enters when the gear housing flange bolts are loosened by depth charging and vibration. Lock nuts are now installed, but a more positive means of preventing the housing from becoming loose is imperative.

#2 Vapor compression distiller again gave trouble, though its output was satisfactory. The compressor lobes were striking each other, and even after a complete overhaul, continued to do so. The gears are believed worn. A new compressor unit has been requested.

The U.S.S. FULTON finally solved the port 75% motor field interlock trouble, which has been with us for five patrols. A new interlock coil, frame, and plunger was installed during the last refit, and never was power lost on either shaft during this patrol.

(L) Radio

No difficulties were experienced either in reception or transmission. All messages were sent to Australian stations.

There were no material casualties.

(M) Radar

(1.) SJ

Not one minute of operating time was lost during the entire patrol. Land targets up to 45,000 yards, and ships up to 17,550 yards were detected. The magnetron installed has been operating perfectly for 1000 hours.

(2.) SD

Operation of the SD radar is uncertain. On 28 September, it failed to operate on surfacing. The cause was the failure of a resistor and a condenser in the cathode ray tube power circuit. The following day planes were detected at 16 miles, and land targets, 8000 feet high, at 60 miles. A thorough adjustment of the equipment has been requested.

(3.) ARC-1

Although the time on station was spent in close proximity to known enemy radar installations (Wewak and Hollandia), no indications of radar were obtained. The unit apparently operated satisfactorily, for shipboard noises were readily detected.

(N) Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

All sound gear cables piercing the pressure hull were renewed during the last refit. No material difficulties were experienced during this patrol.

Sound conditions were average in the area between the New Guinea coast and the Admiralty Islands. Screws of small steamers were heard at 6000 - 8000 yards. Many fish noises made conditions poor at times.

(O) Density Layers

A definite thermocline was noted in Lat. 1-30 S., Long. 148-35 E. The temperature decreased 3° between 150 and 250 feet, and possibly another 3° to 320 feet. The gradient did not afford much protection during the early phases of the depth charge attack between 0100 (L) and 0230 (L) on 28 August 1943.

(P) Health, Food, and Habitability

The crew suffered the usual minor ailments concomitant a shift from the cool climate of Brisbane to the tropics. One man was given oxygen through an escape lung to aid his breathing when he suffered from a severe chest cold.

The food was definitely superior to that obtained from the U.S.S. FULTON for the sixth patrol. The addition of fresh frozen fruits and vegetables was appreciated by all hands. The meat, especially the steak, was more tender, and definitely tastier. Coca-Cola, made with water, and set in the cold room to "ice up" was a delicious drink at any and all hours of the day.

One-third of a can of CO2 absorbent in each torpedo room on the all day dives made the boat comfortable throughout the run.

(Q) Personnel

In spite of a turnover of one-third of the crew during the last two refit periods, the state of training, as well as the morale, is excellent.

This is due to a combination of two things. First, the caliber of the non-qualified personnel obtained from the Submarine Division 82 is high. Second, a vigorous training routine has been established prior to leaving on patrol; and continued during the entire run. Seventy percent of the personnel aboard are now qualified.

(R) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Brisbane to Area 2776.2 Miles 24288 Gallons
In Area 2390.4 Miles 10590 Gallons
Area to Brisbane 2530.0 Miles 33057 Gallons
Total 7696.6 Miles 67935 Gallons

(S) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 14
Days in Area 24
Days in Combat Zone 34
Days Enroute to Base 13
Days Submerged 38

(T) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Torpedoes 12
Fuel (36156 gals. transferred to Tulagi) 17694 gallons
Provisions 0 days
Personnel 14 days

The orders of Commander Task Force 72 to end the patrol.

(U) Remarks

The COUCAL was very cooperative. With her assistance several small casualties were repaired in a thorough manner in lieu of he chewing gum and bailing wire method in vogue while on patrol. The refueling was handled expeditiously; and 13,264 gallons of fuel, plus stores and fresh water, were received in two hours.

The shipping routes off New Guinea are very indefinite. I believe that small craft usually run close inshore, and that for this area, the best place to operate would be close inshore, above Hollandia, in the vicinity of Cape D'Urville.

The type voltage regulator installed on both the radio and IC motor generators is inadequate. The transmission of two messages was delayed until adjustment could be made to the regulator. The IC motor generators are run using "rheostat" control instead of regulator control. If no new design regulators are available complete reconditioning of the present ones is necessary.


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