U-boat Archive - Eastern Sea Frontier - April 1942

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #72

APRIL 1, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0233:	SS TIGER (U.S. Tanker, 5992 tons) torpedoed at 2300 March 31st about 10 miles SE of Cape Henry. Duty Officer at Norfolk reported by phone that a 0145 red flares were seen bearing 112° from Cape Henry. At 0150, 3 flares were seen. At 0210 CG Cutter JACKSON went to investigate. She reported 3 life boats full of men about 15 miles SE of Cape Henry. EDC reports that no survivors in any of the three boats would reveal the identity of their ship. At 0415 Norfolk reported that SS TIGER with cargo of Navy oil had been torpedoed at 2300 March 31st. Position about 10 miles SE of Cape Henry. Ship still afloat and not on fire. CG Cutter JACKSON standing by to attempt salvage. 41 survivors on YP 52 being brought in to Norfolk. Number of missing unknown. At 0445 Chesapeake Bay sector reports JACKSON is towing TIGER into Hampton Roads. At 0700 65th Observation Squadron reports vessel apparently torpedoed at 36 - 42 N, 75 - 32 W. No apparent survivors. This position is 13 miles E. of position of TIGER torpedoing. At 1215 it was reported that 42 survivors including 6 Navy gunners as passenger landed Norfolk. At 1450 Norfolk reported TIGER cut loose from towing vessel and sinking. At 1620 ComFive reports that TIGER is still afloat with stern almost awash. Trying to get another tug to tow her in or beach her. EDC reported that plane at 1930 saw no one aboard the TIGER and no boats visible. Ship had a list of 35°.

1415:	U.S.S. ACUSHNET (AT) brought 30 more survivors of CITY OF NEW YORK to Norfolk at 1530Q, April 1. Included Ensign Schaefer, USNR, and the master. Possibility that GREER may have 7 more survivors aboard. Master reported to say that he saw a lifeboat containing the first officer and about 19 women and children which had not been picked up and may still be adrift.

1440:	Airplane reports patches of lumber several miles long 10 miles off coast from Corolla to Kittyhawk, N.C. Also saw one lifeboat and a life preserver, but no survivors.

1518:	B17 Army bomber sighted sub at 1618. Position 36 - 54 N, 74 - 53 W. An Army Radar-equipped plane is patrolling the area all night. A Navy plane is night patrolling between Wimble Shoals and Cape Henry in area of two afternoon sightings.

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #72

APRIL 1, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1625:	K-5 reported fresh orange paint covering a large area, but no wreckage. Position 38 - 38 N, 74 - 30 W, 30 miles SE Cape Henlopen. (No recent wreck reported to date near this position.)

1800:	Intercept SSS S.S. LOCHDON (British Cargo, 5249 tons) Torpedoed. Position 37 - 05 N, 61 - 40 W, 300 miles NNE of Bermuda. Time 1722. COLE sent to search region. Expected to arrive at dawn April 2.

2010:	COMINCH reported that a sub was sighted at 1601. Position 43 - 55 N, 59 - 53 W (near Sable Island Bank). Also reported a "sub contact" at 43 - 24 N, 59 - 40 W, at 1605.

2215:	EDC 65th Observation Squadron reports at 1355 sighting a sub periscope. Dropped two 100 lb. bombs and one smoke bomb. Results negative. Position 34 - 50 N, 75 - 18 W.

2340:	Position of S.S. EXCELSIOR at 0600 April 1st was 36 - 01 N, 72 - 34 W. (At 1430 March 29th S.S. EXCELSIOR had engine breakdown.).

APRIL 2.

0115:	ComFive reports SS EMPIRE STEEL (8100-ton British tanker torpedoed March 23 at 2200. Position 36 - 45 N, 64 - 17 W. Bound from Baton Rouge to UK. Cargo high octane gas and kerosene. Ship owned by Bank Line, Ltd. 39 of crew of 47 still missing. 8 picked up by tug EDWARD J. MORAN March 28 and landed at Little Creek, C.G. Station, April 1. All in Marine Hospital, Norfolk.

0141:	S.S. LIEBRE (U.S. Tanker, 7057 tons) sent SOS at 0129. "Shelled by sub south of Lookout Buoy." No definite position report given. At 0130 the British Motor Torpedo Boat 332 sighted submarine shelling "vessel" 17 miles 170° T from Cape Lookout Whistling Buoy. At 0200 the Motor Torpedo Boat approached the stricken vessel and dropped depth charges. Sailors from the boat boarded the vessel and found no signs of life on board. Steam was coming from the engine room, the vessel apparently drifting. No life boats sighted. CG Cutter 463 proceeding from Morehead City to position of shelled vessel. A plane sighted two lifeboats 320° T

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #72

APRIL 2, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

	from tanker 30 miles off Cape Lookout.

0155:	In torpedoing of Tug MENOMINEE and three barges (see our 1135 of March 31) 9 men, the entire crews of the barges, and the Captain and Chief Engineer of the tug were saved. 16 as yet unaccounted for.

0240:	Army B-18 bomber from Langley got radar contact on surfaced sub at 0142, heading 100° T. Position 36-28 N., 74-34W., at 100 fathom mark 65 miles south east of Cape Henry. Submarine submerged on approach of bomber. No bombs dropped. Trying to relocate, this airplane got another contact at 0318, eighteen miles from the first. Pilot feels confident it was a second sub. On approaching position he caught sight of sub five miles away in clear moonlight, approached dropped three depth charges which were fully visible at time of release. Bombs landed ten feet to side of sub. Believes he sunk sub at 36-38 N., 75-05 W.

	NOTE: In the ten hours between 1618 April 1 and 0240 April 2, 3 sightings, 1 shelling by a sub and 2 radar contacts occurred in the Lookout-Hatteras-False Cape area. A Navy plane and the radar equipped B-18 patrolled the area during the night. Intensive search by eight Army planes underway at daybreak.


		Submitted


		J. F. MALONEY
		Lt. (jg) USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #73

APRIL 2, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0821:	Cominch reports that sub is indicated by R.D.F. fix to be within 200 miles of 42-30 N., 52-00W. (360 miles south of Cape Race). At 0911 an additional report of sub by R.D.F. fix within 50 miles of 38-30 N., 57-00 W. (500 miles south of Cape Race). And at 0919 N.O.B. Bermuda informed E.S.F. of sub sighted 32-05 N., 64-25 W. (25 miles southeast Bermuda).

0855:	S/S CHILORE, U.S. Cargo, 8310 tons sighted submarine 10 miles south of Sand Key (24-27 N., 81-53 W.). Distress ended at 0910.

0923:	Further information re S/S TIGER (see our 0235 April 1) S/S WALTER JENNINGS (U.S. Tanker 9563 tons) reports S/S TIGER at 36-46 N., 75-45 W., after end submerged, port boat gone and forward rafts aboard. Bolt anchors down - no sign of life.

0930:	Fresh oil slick at 35-55 N., 75-23 W. (5 miles off Oregon Inlet). Plane dropped bomb after complete reconnaissance. Also a destroyer scouted in vicinity.

1210:	HERBERT reported contact now immobilized. Position 205° T. from Five Fathom Light Buoy - distance 11 miles. Request air coverage to determine character of target. Plane at 1450 reports negative.

1345:	Boston reports Navy Tug Y-17 located seaplane from North Carolina downed 35 miles from Portland. Pilot safe. Prepared to tow to port and arrived 1920.

1332:	SSS from S/S ARANMORE (British transport, 2000 tons), at 42-44 N., 65-35 W. (60 miles south of Cape Sable).

1515:	U.S.S. KEWAYDIN (AT) towing S/S EXCELSIOR to Norfolk. To arrive daylight April 4. (see our 1430 March 29). Also Tug RESOLUTE bringing S/S LIEBRE to Morehead City. (see our 0141 April 2). Arriving before sundown.

1750:	SSS from S/S BRILLIANT (U.S. tanker, 9132 tons) sub sighted at 34-55 N., 75-41 W. (20 miles south of Cape Hatteras). CESF notified U.S.S. HAMBLETON which was patrolling this area. At 1923 wake of torpedo seen to miss tanker which proceeded on southbound course. Distress ended shortly thereafter.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #73

APRIL 3, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

2122:	SOS from S/S DAVID H. ATWATER (U.S. cargo, 2438 tons) being shelled and sunk by sub at 38-00 N., 75-05 W. (hard on Winter Quarter). CESF asked Com 5 to investigate departure and routing of this cargo vessel. U.S.S. NOA and HERBERT were directed to scene, arriving 2400. At 0145 C.G. Cutter LEGARE landed 3 survivors and 4 bodies of crew of 29 at Chincoteague Island Coast Guard Station. Put out immediately for further search.

2211:	SSS ALLO from S/S ESSO AUGUSTA (U.S. tanker, 11237 tons) sighted suspicious lighted vessel astern 8 miles, 054° T. from Bodie Island Light. Later reported lights doused. EDC states subject vessel is reported to be S/S/ ISLE OF YORK (not listed). ESSO AUGUSTA inside Capes -- all is well.

2256:	Cominch fixes enemy unit within 100 miles of 39-30 N., 64-30 W., 240 miles south of Cape Sable.

0540:	SOS from S/S/ OTHO (U.S. cargo 4389 tons) at 36-24 N., 72-25 W. (175 miles due east of False Cape) torpedoed. At 0652 message received "operate with caution - keep sharp lookout". Apparently vessel still afloat and proceeding. Bomber Command directs patrol to scene.

0755:	SSS from S/S PAN RHODE ISLAND (U.S. tanker, 7700 tons) 5 miles SSW Sand Key "sighted sub near Key West".

NOTE:	At 1030 Navy plane at 36-40 N., 51-40 W., sighted two lifeboats and directed U.S.S. COLE to scene. Other wreckage was noticed in area which is 600 miles east of Bermuda.

	Intelligence Officer reports the SS SVENOR (Norwegian tanker 7600 tons) torpedoed and sunk at 0230 March 28 in position 300 miles east of Hatteras. Tanker was carrying fuel oil from Curacao to Halifax. Of the 37 crew 29 survivors rescued by S/S GUNENE (Portuguese) and landed them at Philadelphia March 31. Other crew members lost, including all officers.


		Submitted


		W. M. MATERNE
		Ensign, USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #74

APRIL 3, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1200:	S.S. OHIO (9264 Ton U.S. Tanker) enroute Baytown, N.Y., sighted sub at 37-53 N., 75-00 W. (4 miles S/W of Winter Quarter Shoals). OHIO on course 223° T., speed 15 knots HERBERT informed. At 1232 Distress traffic ended.

1325:	S.S. MAUNA KEY reported sub sighted at 37-57-30 N., 75-06-30 W. This is probably same sub sighted by the S.S. OHIO. At 1415 Blimp K2, having searched, reported nothing except a wreck at this position.

1450:	U.S.S. KEARNY (DD432) off Casco 130° T. fro Portland Head signaled HECP "We are attacking". Then turned and proceeded seaward.

1600:	U.S.S. ROPER (DD) made sound contact at 34-27 N., 76-09 W. Dropped 21 depth charges. Results not positive. Info from E.D.C. via Chesapeake Bay sector from Fifth Naval District, originator.

1720:	E.D.C. reports plane from Ft. Devens out on special patrol sighted oil slick at 43-10 N., 70-18 W. U.S.S. FINBACK is currently operating in this general area off Isle of Shoals. This position is about 35 miles S/W of where the KEARNY is reported to have proceeded seaward.

1745:	(Further to our 1450 of April 2 - S.S. SVENOER) The S.S. LEDA docked New York April 3 and reports that on March 31 at 2123 she sighted a lifeboat at 35-10 N., 70-23 W. (50 miles west of where sinking occurred). Several oars across the thwarts and 1 in the water, which seems to indicate that other survivors got away but perished.

1810:	S.S. ENSIS (British Tanker 6207 tons) sighted sub on surface 7 miles N/W of 35-43 N., 66-08 W. (460 miles due east of Wimble Shoals). At 0510 (Apr. 4) ENSIS machine gunned by sub at 34-54 N., 64-51 W. Engaging. At 0650 ENSIS again reports the sub at 34-55 N., 64-47 W. and again at 0730 reports sub still following -- require assistance.

1830:	S.S. GRAINALA (ship not identified) sighted sub at 35-48 N., 66-11 W. This appears to be same sub sighted by S.S. ENSIS 20 minutes earlier.

1900:	Mobile flight unit bombed oil slick at 35-37 N., 75-15 W. (close into Wimble Shoals). No results observed. Continuing observation. Report from Air Support Liaison.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #74

APRIL 3, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1905:	Plane dropped bomb on oil slick 5 miles 60° T. from Five Fathom Bank. Asked for surface assistance.

2350:	(See our 1515 of April 2) 26 survivors and 2 bodies were landed at Morehead City today from S.S. LIEBRE shelled by a sub at 0123 April 2 at 34-11 N., 76-08 W. 7 men missing believed lost. LIEBRE now docked at Morehead City, having been towed in by RESOLUTE. All confidential papers aboard.

2355:	Further in re DAVID H. ATWATER shelled and sunk by submarine off Winter Quarter Buoy at 2115 April 2. Total crew was 25. The 3 wounded survivors and 4 dead landed by C.G.C. LEGARE are at the Marine Hospital, Norfolk. 13 bodies picked up by C.G. lifeboats are at Ocean City C.G. Station. 1 body picked up by Eagle 56 is at Lewes, Del. C.G.C. LEGARE reported destroying 2 lifeboats and 1 life raft. 1 lifeboat had been machine gunned.

0325:	(APRIL 4) S.S. ARGON (U.S. Tanker 6952 Tons) sighted sub at 34-15 N., 76-05 W. This position is near where Roper attacked at 1600. At 0411 distress ended. At 0528 ARGON at 34-28 N., 75-37 W. now being chased by sub. Sub sending up flares. At 0615 Norfolk reported 5 planes sent to ARGON's assistance.

	The following RDF's were reported:

	1. Within 50 miles of 42-00 N., 42-30 W. at 2245 Apr. 2.

	2. At 39-00 N., 55-00 W. at 1930 Apr.3.

	3. Within 100 miles of 36-00 N., 74-30 W. at 1845 Q, Apr 3.

	4. Within 100 miles of 40-30 N., 50-30 W. at 1930 Q, Apr 3.

	5. Within 100 miles of 35-00 N., 68-15 W. at 2239, Apr. 3.

0836:	ENIS distress ended according to message received from Fourth Naval District.

		submitted


		GEORGE DWIGHT
		Lieut. USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #75

APRIL 4, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1155:	S.S. EXCELSIOR (U.S. CARGO 5873 tons) arrived at Chesapeake Capes about 1055. On March 29 sent SOS, engine break-down.

1540:	SSS from S.S. MAUNA KEA (U.S. Tanker) Sub sighted 4 miles north of Brigantine Shoals at 1540. Two blimps, 5 planes and Coast Guard cutter sent to scene. Merchant ships in area notified. At 1659 MAUNA KEA sent, "Distress is ended". At 2200 Lakehurst reported that one of blimps sent to scene reported visibility poor off Brigantine Gas Buoy. Blimp at first mistook a self-propelled oil barge for a submarine. Blimp thinks this may explain MAUNA KEA sighting.

2120:	Eagle 56 of ComFour reported, "Good sound contact at 2105Q. Position 38-38 N., 74-24 W. (8 miles SE Five Fathom Bank). Stationary object, Scattered oil slick same area. Little debris in vicinity. Picked up lifebelt marked, 'PICARD-DUNKERQUE' Proceeding". ("PICARD" is not listed).

2140:	The first of two SSSS from the American Tanker RHODE ISLAND, 8656 tons. "Strange flashing white light 258° T. from Cape Lookout. Position 34-35N; 76-50W." Army plane sent to investigate . Results negative. At 0455 RHODE ISLAND reported being followed by suspicious looking craft. Position 35-40N; 75-45W. This is 60 miles SE Cape Lookout.

2309:	SSSS from S/S EVELYN (call WKCE, 3141-ton U.S. Cargo.) Reports a tanker torpedoed at 36-17N; 75-36W, 2 miles east of Currituck Lighted Whistle Buoy 66. Reported the torpedoed ship to be on fire at 2302Q. C.G. cutter DIONE reached position and reported at 0150 she had been alongside ship and was searching for survivors and for the sub. Ship at 0150 was 10 miles south of Currituck Buoy.

0050:	Navy Liaison Officer at Army Information Center, Norfolk reported Wilmington, N.C. had word from the Army observation post at Onslow Beach that a sub was sighted going into New River Inlet. The Marine Base at New River sent 1 plane, 3 C.G. boats, and 8 other boats to investigate. 0900: EDC reports navigation lights were mistaken for a submarine at this position.

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #75

APRIL 5, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0100:	SSS ALLO from U.S. Tanker CHESTER SUN, 9096 tons. Sighted sub at 0040. Position 34-56N; 75-36W, 50 miles S of Cape Hatteras. A B-18 Army radar-equipped plane was sent to scene. At 0115 CHESTER SUN fired one shot at the submarine. "He submerged and apparently gone."

0105:	Tug DAUNTLESS reported being chased by sub 5 miles south of Sea Grit, 40-00N; 73-58W. Zircon, Icarus, CG cutter 451, and AMC 200 nearby and ordered to this position. At 0110 Inspat reported that DAUNTLESS was all right, had seen nothing for 35 minutes. CG cutter 451 was abeam DAUNTLESS two miles off.

0517:	Panamanian Tanker PROMETHEUS, 8890 tons, sent SSSS. Sighted sub at 13-10N; 69-30W at 0517. This is 50 miles NE of Aruba.

0540:	HAMILTON (DD) at 0340 reports that while searching for sub she found the American tanker BYRON D. BENSON owned by Tidewater Oil Co., 7953 tons, blazing furiously in area 10 miles south of Currituck Light. Picked up 27 men from one boat. 10 men missing, including captain and all mates. Survivors all in good condition. Crew believes only one lifeboat launched. Sea calm. Set and drift zero. HAMILTON searching area until daybreak.

		Submitted,


		J. F. MALONEY
		Lt. (jg) USNR

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #76

APRIL 5, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1005 -	ComFive informs that Ocean City, Maryland C. G. Station at 0945 heard 4 shots of heavy gunfire to east and south of station. At 0955 three more. Position about 38-15N., 75-00W.

1010 -	SSS from Pan-American Clipper. Sub sighted on surface at 35-46N, 69-05W. Course 110° T. Speed 5. Another report from Pan-American Clipper at 1411 sub sighted on surface 38-37N, 71-15W. Course 240° T. Speed 12.

0950 -	BYRON D. BENSON, U.S. Tanker, 7953 tons. See our 0540 April 4. HAMILTON (DD) landed 27 survivors including 2 aliens at Norfolk. Reported an additional lifeboat headed toward beach. The H.M.S. NORWICH CITY picked up 1 survivor, leaving 9 missing. Patrol plane on scene at 2300 of April 4, saw gunfire and flares but not vessel. At 1740 SS PHOENIX reports vessel still afire and a further report at 1937 stated hull still afloat but gutted.

1515 -	SSS from S/S ETHEL MAE, U.S. Cargo - 64 tons. Sub sighted 36-13N, 75-37W, at 1241.

1635 -	RDFIX within 100 miles 42-30N, 46-30W, at 1113.

1830 -	SSS from SS CATAHOULA, 5000 ton Cuban tanker torpedoed at 19-38N, 68-29W, in Mona Passage at 1822.

1912 -	Caffey's Inlet Lifeboat Station, 327° T. - 24 miles from Oregon Inlet - heard 3 explosions a long way out to Sea, at 1923 heard 3 more.

2015 -	SSS from S.S. JOHN D. ARCHBOLD, U. S. Tanker 12,590 tons sighted suspicious flashing white light 065° 8 miles from Cape Lookout. C.E.S.F. advised Norfolk and patrol directed to take appropriate action.

		Submitted:


		JOHN A. HOWELL
		Lieut.(jg) USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #78

APRIL 7, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1050:	SS PAN RHODE ISLAND at 0950 picked up 29 survivors of the torpedoed Norwegian SS LANCING, (Cargo, 7866 Tons) stricken 14 miles 190 T. from Cape Hatteras, at 35-08N; 75-22W at 0435. 20 other survivors also rescued. All landed at NOB Norfolk. One man missing. Confidential papers sunk with ship.

1100:	HMT ST. LOMAN reports having made three contacts April 6 at the position 40-41-30 N, 64-40 W. Times 1022, 1259, and 1332. Depth of water 30 fathoms. Position marked with can buoy and red flag.

1150:	Despatch that HMT NORTHERN PRINCESS vanished without a trace in bad weather on March 7 off Canso, 45-22 N, 55-59 W.

1300:	Positions of sinkings of two ships previously reported:
	BYRON D. BENSON at 36-07 N, 75-15 W. M.V. BRITISH SPLENDOUR at about 35-10 N, 75-19 W.

1430:	Cominch reports a sub sighted at 17-40 N, 67-12 W. at 0628 Q April 7.

1734:	SSS from U. S. Freighter STEELWORKER, 5686 tons. Sighted sub on surface 7 miles, bearing 160 T. from Montauk Point Light at 1725. Sub submerged. Army and Navy planes investigated. Results negative.

1915:	Long Beach, L.I. C.G. Station reported an unidentified sub 3 miles S/E of Station, heading east at 1900. Two Navy planes and ANTIETAM sent. 2200--CGC 176, a 70-foot craft reported she was in this exact vicinity at 1900, heard report of sub sighting and saw nothing. Inspat feels the CGC 176 was the "sub" sighted from shore.

1930:	Observation post of 101st Infantry "sighted sub" 2 miles south of Easthampton, L.I. AMc202 investigated. Results negative.

1932:	Warning message broadcast to all U.S. merchant vessels in Atlantic: "At 1201 sub sighted 35-08 N, 68-13 W.", 330 miles east of Cape Hatteras. This report came in from the Manley (DD) reporting plane attack on sub in which two depth charges were dropped. A 2216 despatch from the MANLEY said that she sighted a sub crash diving at 35-37 N, 67-57 W., one mile on her port bow, dropped four 325-pound depth charges. Oil came up immediately. Attack considered by NANLEY probably not successful.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #78

APRIL 7, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

2120:	CG aircraft from Elizabeth City dropped two DCs, one of which was a dud, on a submarine periscope and swirl at 36-00N; 75-15W at 1750. aircraft searched area. No visible results.

0800: APRIL 8

	Cominch reports RDF positions:

	1. One within 200 miles of 43N; 28W at 2212 April 7.

	2. One within 200 miles at 41N; 60W at 2207

	3. One within 200 miles of 42-30N; 54W.

	4. One within 100 miles 43-30N; 60W at 0420 April 8


		Submitted


		J F MALONEY
		Lieut. (jg) USNR


NOTE:

	At 0305 12 miles N/E of Brunswick, Georgia an Eastern Airlines pilot saw gunfire and explosions below. Planes were sent to the vicinity immediately and at daybreak at 3122N; 80-53W a still smoking hull with no personnel aboard was sighted. Three boatloads of survivors and one dead person were landed at St. Simons Island. Name of ship may WILMERDING.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #79

APRIL 8, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0615:	U.S.S. RAVEN (AM-55) contacted sub in 39-55 N., 67-50 W. nothing further.

1020:	Army bomber reported lifeboat with 10 survivors in about 39-10 N., 73-30 W., 45 miles E X S from Absecon Inlet. Lakehurst sent blimp. Lakehurst sent blimp. Com3 and Com4 surface vessels to area. At 1218 U.S.S. ZIRCON (PY) took 16 uninjured survivors off this lifeboat. Survivors were from S/S OTHO, torpedoed April 2 175 miles due East of False Cape (see our 0540 April 2). Intelligence then reported ZIRCON bound for Cape May. At 2355 Com4, from interview with survivors, reported two other lifeboats also got away.

1615:	(See our Note, Serial #78, Apr. 7). Dispatch from Com6 established one of 2 sinking tankers as S/S OKLAHOMA (U.S. 9,264 tons) from Port Arthur for Providence, R.I. She was torpedoed about 20 miles East of N/W end of Sea Island, Georgia about 0300 April 8, and sank in 7 fathoms. There were about 21 survivors out of 38. At 2330 EDC identified the other tanker, formerly believed to be WILMELDEL or WILMERDING as S/S/ ESSO BATON ROUGE (U.S. 7,900 tons), torpedoed at 0308 April 8. At 1712 April 8 she was still afloat.

2315:	S/S CONNECTICUT (U.S. Tanker 8,684 tons) sent ALLO QQQ suspicious vessel following us at 11-13 N., 61-35 W. 20 miles North of Port of Spain. Nothing further.

0136:	APRIL (9): S/S ESPARTA (U.S. Cargo 3,365 tons, KDAO) sent "SSSS SOS in 30-36 N., 80-11 W. torpedoed by submarine", 61 miles E x N from Jacksonville. Ship was northbound. At 0159 Comone reported C 12° T., S 13. At 0200 Information Center corrected position to 30-46 N., 81-11 W., 35 miles N/E of Jacksonville. At 0245 ESPARTA radioed distress ended. Nothing further.

0425:	SSS from HPVW (may be S/S VAGRANT) in 30-51 N., 81-12 W., 7 miles ENE Emelia Light. At 0615 same vessel reports distress ended.

0435:	SSS from KDOO (may be S/S CAPETOWN) at 0400 Q, in 34-44 N., 76-16 W, 12 miles N/E of Cape Lookout. At 0530 she radioed "Distress ended."

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #79

APRIL 9, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0050:	Information Center reported white flashes off beach seen near Asbury Park at 0045 Q. At 0055 Duty Officer, Com4 reported white flashes seen by spotter from Cape May to Barnegat Inlet; Coast Guard Cutter putting out from Barnegat to investigate. At 0640 Com4 reported patrol craft covered 5 square miles in 4 hours. Saw nothing.

0510:	Com5 reported ship afire 20 miles 100 T. from Cape Lookout. Two motor lifeboats ordered out from Coast Guard Station Cape Lookout. At 0610 S/S ALBERT E. WATTS or S/S L. V. STANFORD (KDOK) reports unknown ship afire in 34-39 N., 76-17 W.

0635:	S/S ROBERT G. TUTTLE reports serious collision off Molasses Reef, Florida, standing by. picked up lifeboat. Trying to pick up two others. Three ships in vicinity. S/S BENWOOD aground.

0800:	APRIL (9): Cominch reports RDF Positions:

	1. One within 50 miles of 36-30 N, 68-00 W. at 2020 Apr. 8.

	2. One within 100 miles of 40-00 N, 62-30 W. at 0121 Apr. 8.

	3. One within 100 miles of 35-30 N, 69-00 W.


		Submitted


		A. J. BIGELOW
		Lt. (jg), USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #80

APRIL 9, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0515:	F. H. BEDFORD (U. S. TANKER, 10844 tons) rammed a ship in New York harbor, off Stapleton, S.I. at 0550 she reported that the rammed ship was sinking and at 0605 she reported that the rammed ship is anchored and that she is a freighter.

0830:	(See our 0510 of April 8) S.S. ATLAS (U. S. Tanker, 7058 tons) torpedoed about 0500. Position 34-39N; 76-17W (about 20 miles E by N of Cape Lookout). It was sighted afire by S.S. ALBERT E. WATTS at 0710. At 0800 -- 32 survivors were picked up by CG #462 which is proceeding to Moorehead City. The ATLAS was reported afire twice more during the day, latest report at 1915.

1055	45th Bomber reports large oil slick about 12 miles in diameter surrounded by small patches of oil. Position 39-50; 75-30W at 0805. (No sinkings near this position recently, 20 miles N.E. Barnegat).

1325	ALLO from S.S. CARRABULLE (U. S. Tanker 5030 tons) at 1242. Position 30-43N ; 81-15W. 20 miles N. E. Jacksonville. Immediately thereafter reported steering course 360°T. Sub submerged 1530 -- HMT NORTHERN ISLES and NORTHERN DUKE searching for sub in vicinity.

1430	SSS MANLEY (DD) sighted sub on surface at 0745. Position 36-36N ; 67-52 W. Sub dived while 6 miles away and sight contact not regained.

1845	EDC reports re S.S. ESPARTA (see our 0126 and 0425 of April 9). Torpedoed without warning on starboard side but not shelled. Sub partially surfaced after attack at position 30-46N ; 81-11W, 25 miles N N E Jacksonville, 39 out of crew of 40 were saved. Vessel resting on bottom, top of mast showing.

2045	The SANTA ROSA (9135-ton Grace liner) sent SSS, submarine sighted. Message was intercepted on 500KC at 2032. "At 1830 GMT (sic) 27-06N ; 80-00 W. Fired 10 rounds." Position is 8 miles SE St Lucie Inlet, Fla. At 2126 SANTA ROSA sent, "Just sighted sub now" at 27-45N ; 80-08W, (39 miles North of first sighting). Radio Key West sent "QUM, distress traffic ended on SANTA ROSA."


		Submitted,


		J. F. MALONEY
		Lt. (jg), USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #81

APRIL 10, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0915:	Cominch reports sub indicated by R.D.F. within 60 miles of 39N; 54W at 1806 April 9. At 0925 an additional report from Radio Washington gives the following:

	(1) A suspicious vessel sighted 100 miles east of Guadeloupe 16-33N; 59-24W., 0901 April 9.

	(2) Sub sighted 30-42N; 81-15W, at 1242 April 9.

	(3) Sub sighted 36-36N; 67-52W, at 0742 April 9.

0915:	U.S.C.G.C. DUANE aground off buoy 11 at West Entrance C.C. Canal. All clear ETA Boston 1330 April 10.

0920:	U.S.S. CAPELLA (AK) at 0030 hit at 10,000 yards by torpedo accidentally discharged by PT-59 in upper Narragansett Bay. Tugs immediately sent alongside and ship anchored in shoal water. 8 men injured are at Naval hospital. Expert advice at scene. Investigation ordered.

0930:	ComSix reports 34 of the crew of 37 of S.S. BATON ROUGE (U.S. Tanker - 7900 tons sunk 2308 April 8 at 31-22; 80-53N.) are saved. Ship settled by stern in about 7 fathoms. Had no navy gun crew aboard. All codes and publications saved.

1115:	ComSix and E.D.C. report PY-218 convoying TURQUOISE et al. from Charleston to San Juan floundering and drifting about 100 miles off coast. At 1545 another report that they are dispatching the C.G.C. TALLAPOUSA, UMPQUA and 2 patrol planes. Weather conditions unfavorable. No enemy action indicated.

1230:	The following relative to activity in vicinity of Wimble Shoals:

	(1) At 1230 ComFive reports British Trawler in contact at 0948 at 35-30-35N; 75-15-20W. Produced fresh oil slick at first attack. Target immobilized. Attacking alternatively with the MOA (DD). Another report at 2105 from ComFive states repeated attacks by NOA (DD) and HERBERT (DD) produced oil slicks of 2 kinds - lubricating and yellow emulsion. Air bubbles produced Spot buoyed. NOA to remain in area. ComFive reported at 1730 April 10 and again at 0500 April 11 that the British Tanker M. V. SANDELFINO, 8070 tons, was attack by one torpedo at 1700 April 9, position 35-35N; 75-06W. (See our report 2340 April 9) Vessel abandoned immediately by survivors including all deck officers.

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #81

APRIL 10, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

	Total crew 49. Lost 29. 21 survivors brought to Moorehead City section base. Confidential papers not retrieved by Master. Believed burned with ship, which was afire from stem to stern.

	(2) At 1445 intercept SSS from H.P.V.W. (unlisted) 35-35N; 74-18W, at 1442, and another from same a 1428 which stated submarine close Wimble Shoals Buoy still following headed north. At 1430 said sub just submerged one mile astern.

	(3) SSS Allo from GARNET HULLINGS (U.S. Tanker 7036 tons) sighted sub miles northwest Wimble Shoals at 1600 April 10.

	(4) At 1720 intercept from S.S. MERCURY SUN (8000 ton U.S. tanker) sighted sub at Wimble Shoals at 1600 April 10.

1320:	S.S. OLDHAM (U.S. Cargo 6175 tons) en route N.Y. sighted ship afire at 34-28N; 76-18W., the approximate position of the S.S. TAMAAULITAS (U.S. Tanker 6943 tons) torpedoed at 34-25N, 76-00, at 0029 April 10. At 1515 the OLDHAM reported sighting a round floating object with studs at 34-30N; 76-14W. one mile north of smoke. Mine appeared to be type "41".

1705:	C.G. Boston reports flotsam recovered on east shore Block Island. Note books in Chinese and Japanese. S.S. YORKMAR S.S. TJISAROEA.

1730:	ComFive reports 28 survivors of S.S. MALCHACE U.S. Cargo 3515 tons) torpedoed 0158 April 10 at 34-28N, 75-56W. landed at Norfolk at 1350 from Mexican steamer FAJA DE ORO. MALCHASE believed sunk but may be menace to navigation. Confidential papers destroyed.

1730:	ComFive reports 35 survivors of S.S. TAMAULITAS (see above 1320) landed at Moorehead City, N.C. at 0745 by H.M.T. NORWICH CITY.

1800:	Cominch reports sub sighted at 35-41N; 75-25W. at 1600.

1920:	S.S. MOSDALE (Norwegian Cargo 3022 tons) reports periscope of sub sighted at 43-37N; 62-08W. at 1900 and intercept report states she is being "chased".

2223:	S.S. MUNGER T. BALL (U.S. Tanker 5104 tons) "Sighted 2 small and one large suspicious vessels following me for last 1 hour. Position 27-40N; 80-18W. at 2210 April 10 (time of message).

- 2 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #81

APRIL 10, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

2246:	RDF within 100 miles of 36-15N; 53-30W. at 2151 April 10.

2315:	RDF Sub within 100 miles of 36-00N; 73-30; at 1925 April 10. May have sighted convoy from OPNAV. Convoy being plotted as Norfolk Section of 75.

2220:	C.G. Jacksonville Beach saw sub shelling ship. Bomber pilots reported large explosion same place at 2221. Eastern Airlines reported same, saw flares at 400-500 ft. high. At 2310 Charleston EDC reported ship afire. Jacksonville sent 2 planes, and tried contact St. Augustine light without success. ComSix at 0558 reports S.S. GULF AMERICA (U.S. Tanker) torpedoed approximately 8 miles south St. John's Light. Unconfirmed report 49 men aboard 14 survivors and 6 dead. Boats still searching area.

2359:	U.S.S. MACKREL (SS) attacked by unidentified Army bomber P-38 type 6 miles south of Watch Hill Light about 1700 April 8. Investigation requested.

0300:	S.S. EVELYN (U.S. Cargo 3140 Tons) reported sub sighted at 29-40N; 80-56W. at 0130 Three planes arrived.

0310:	NAS Jacksonville reported bombed submerged submarine 30-00N; 81-00W.

0345:	Cominch reported sub sighted 43-57; 62-08W at 1908 and RDF at 1935 and 1947 April 10 within 50 miles 36N; 73-30W.

0415:	Cominch reported sub sighted 43-57; 62-08W at 1908 and RDF at 1935 and 1947 April 10 within 50 miles 36N; 73-30W.

0440:	S.S. EXPORT (Dutch Cargo 760 tons) reported sighting sub between Navisink Light and Sea Girt, N.J. Inshore Patrol reported investigating, and Floyd Bennett reported sending planes to search.

0708:	S.S. OLDHAM sighted sub 6 miles South Cape Hatteras Light House at 0708 April 11.

0726:	S.S. TENNESSEE (U.S. Tanker 6400 tons) reported by S.S. SANTA ROSA (Army transport) blown up 12 miles south of Cape Lookout off Moorehead City, N.C. At 0820 April 11 F.C.C. instructs SANTA ROSA proceed and use caution.

		SUBMITTED


		J.A. HOWELL
		Lt.(jg) U.S.N.R.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #82

APRIL 11, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1)	N.A.S. Jacksonville believes only 1 ship sunk off Jacksonville last night (Apr. 10-11), the GULF AMERICA at 2200, Apr. 10, enroute Port Arthur - New York.

2)	Norfolk discounts report that the TENNESSEE was torpedoed. (see our 0728 of Apr. 10).

3)	The S.S. EXPORT (referred to in our 0440 of Apr. 10) was the S.S. EXFORD, U.S. cargo 4969 tons.

0721 -	S.S. HARRY F. SINCLAIR Jr., U.S. tanker 6151 tons, torpedoed 34-25 N, 76-25 W, (7 miles off Cape Lookout Outer Buoy). Still afloat on even keel but burning when last seen. Total crew 36. All believed saved. 27 landed at Moorehead City. Was enroute Houston Texas to Portsmouth, Va. 4 trawlers, 1 DD and planes reached scene.

0737 -	Sub attack reported at 34-05 N, 26-25 W.

0930 -	Submarine sighted at 16-52 N, 62-17 W.

0930 -	Patrol plane sighted a lifeboat with passengers at 38-40N; 73 W. C.G#455 reported enroute to Area from Cape May. At 2206 K4 reported - saw lifeboat with 8 people in it, 2 apparently dead as they were covered up. Among living were a woman and a child and an officer. Officer signaled in semaphore "New York 12 days," which may mean these survivors are from City of New York and have been adrift 12 days (Note - CITY OF N. Y. was torpedoed March 29). K4 saw C.G. #455 deliver survivors from life boat. C.G. #455 then proceeded toward Lewes, Delaware.

1235 -	E.D.C. reported YP22 had picked up 7 survivors of H.M.S. ST. CATHAN (British trawler) and 31 survivors from S.S. HEBE, previously reported torpedoed. At 1630 BERYL and AZURLITE were reported to have aboard 40 survivors and 1 dead from the two ships and proceeded to Charleston. At 2020 it was established that the HEBE and ST. CATHAN had collided at 0215 April 11 at 33-10 N; 78-17 W, the HEBE hitting ST. CATHAN in starboard quarter. ST. CATHAN sank in 5 minutes, the HEBE in 30 minutes. According to Norfolk the revised estimate of survivors is entire crew of 31 from the HEBE and 9 out of crew of 39 (all British) from the ST. CATHAN.

1245 -	Intelligence reports C.E. BECKMAN, fishing vessel, while fishing somewhere off 1 N.D. picked up unexploded D.C. about 14 inches in diameter in her nets. Later it was tossed overboard, exploded within 50 feet of vessel, damaging the vessel, necessitating repairs.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #82

APRIL 11, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1300 -	C.G. pilot reports fresh oil slick on fire on water at 35-26 N; 75-11 W (about 12 miles S/E of Wimble Shoals). No wreckage or survivors in vicinity. Earlier at 0642 Army B-17 had seen same burning slick. No recent attack has been identified with this incident.

1300 -	M.V. GRENAGER (Norwegian cargo 5393 tons) torpedoed at 22-45 N; 57-15 W (540 miles N/E of Puerto Rico).

1345 -	E.D.C. reports life ring washed ashore on Block Island is probably from S.S. POINT SAN PEDRO (U. S. cargo 3280 tons) (see our 1705 of April 10), which departed N. Y. for Halifax at 2100 April 6.

1630 -	S.S. UYLSSES (British cargo 14,647 tons) torpedoed at 34-25 N; 75-35 W. at 1640, took to boats. At 1815 B 17 reached area and sighted 12 full life boats. At 2100 MANLEY reported picking up 10 boatloads aggregating about 290 persons, all presumably from ULYSSES.

1630 -	C.G. pilot sighted bow of steamer sticking out of water in 24-41 N; 75-53 W. This vessel is new to pilots who fly this area regularly. Pilot also reported oil slick on fire in 24-40 N; 76-14 W. Is believed to be location of tanker reported afire and sunk yesterday in connection with floating mine. (Note - TAMAULITAS was torpedoed Apr. 10 at 0029 at 34-25 N; 76 W).

1630 -	At 37-40 N; 75-28 W (about 10 miles off Metomkin Inlet) Army patrol plane sighted freighter with deck load of lumber apparently sinking or sunken with decks awash. Lumber on decks splintered as though struck by torpedo. C.G. vessels in area.

1710 -	Pan American plane reports sighting 5 vessels sinking at 35-10 N; 75-10 W. This report not substantiated.

1740 -	U.S.S. CARROW (transport) proceeding to anchor in Delaware Capes with survivors from unknown ship. CARROW stated her bow was badly damaged.

1800 -	YP 218, reported foundering yesterday, weathered storm and was proceeding toward Charleston. Believe she will make port with improving weather conditions.

1915 -	C.G. at Block Island sighted conning tower of sub at 41-07 N; 71-32 W (1 mile SSE from S/E point of Block Island) proceeding on course N/E. Submerged while under observation.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #82

APRIL 11, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

	Two PT boats from Newport sent to area. Eagle on patrol off Marthas Vineyard - GENERAL GREEN off Skaonnet Point.

2305 -	S.S. MANGORE (U.S. cargo 4066 tons) SSS, sighted and fired upon suspicious craft 8 miles 150° T from Beaufort Inlet gas buoy. Craft then disappeared.

2315 -	S.S. EDWARD L. SHEA (U.S. tanker 6746 tons) en route New York to Corpus Christi SSS at 34-31 N; 76-35 W. Reported 2 shots fired from sub. 3 trawlers 1 PBY and HERBERT in area.

0010 -	(Apr. 12) Distress traffic ended for both the EDWARD L. SHEA and the MANGORE and this invites the conclusion that the MANGORE fired on the SHEA.

0103 -	S.S. DELVALLE (U.S. cargo 5032 tons) SSS at 16-50 N; 72-25 W (about 120 miles south of Dominican Republic).

0104 -	S.S. STANVAC MELBOURNE (Panamanian tanker 10,169 tons) SSS hit mine 15 miles from Frying Pan Shoals inside buoy.

0115 -	Sub sighted at 33-30 N; 78-07 W (about 20 miles east of Frying Pan Shoals buoy.

0640 -	S.S. HALSEY (U.S. tanker 7088 tons) en route New York to Corpus Christi, Texas, passed 2 large tankers in sinking condition at 31-13 N; 81-05 W.

0800 -	At about dawn bomber sighted sub 40 miles S/E of St. Augustine cruising on surface at 15 knots on course 10° T. Bomber turned to make attack but due to poor visibility lost sight of sub, which may have dived.


		Submitted:


		GEORGE DWIGHT
		Lieut., USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #83

APRIL 12, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1020	TEXAS SUN (U.S. TANKER, 9,900 tons) aground on submerged wreck. Position 34-31N, 76-52W. HMT HERTFORDSHHIRE attempting tow her off at 1955. Moran tug RELIEF enroute scene.

1040	STANVAC MELBOURNE (PANAMANIAN TANKER, 10,169 tons) reported by PC472 as having been torpedoed and in need of immediate assistance. Previously reported as hitting a mine (our 0104 April 11). At 1120 PC472 reports vessel's boat's gone and that she is riding high at anchor 30 miles due east of Southport (Cape Fear). Charleston is arranging tow for her.

1125	Army bomber command reports a lifeboat adrift with 4 men. Position 39-04N, 68-10W. Two patrol boats AMc201, and AMc202 dispatched to scene, one due to arrive at about 0600 April 13. Army and Navy planes at scene. Navy plane at 1740 sighted life raft with 2 aboard 8 miles north of the lifeboat.

1240	HARRY F. SINCLAIR JR (US TANKER, 6151 tons) torpedoed April 11 is reported by CG to be drifting and still burning at 34-15N, 76-28W at 0900. Mane positively identified.

1645	Intercept SSS STANVIC CALCUTTA (PANAMANIAN TANKER, 10,169 tons) Position 02-30S, 39-43W (50 miles off NE coast of Brazil) at 1510. Sinking and probably torpedoed.

1735	Norfolk reports plane sighting ship afire 30 miles due E of Cape Lookout. May be Tanker HARRY F. SINCLAIR JR (see our 0721 April 11)

1815	Com6 reports that 295 survivors from SS ULYSSES (see our 1630 April 11) have been landed from USS MANLEY at Navy Yard, Charleston. All 95 passengers and 195 of crew are accounted for. No loss of life and no serious injuries incident to sinking of vessel. It

- 1 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #83

APRIL 12, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

	was reported that vessel was torpedoed at least twice at 1639 on April 11 at 34-23N, 75-33W and sank in 30 minutes.

1825	HMT LE TIGRE "attacked sub by echo-ranging at 34-30N, 75-54W. Results promising. Air bubbles and oil."

1945	Radio Washington report submarine attack at 1550. Position 21-42N, 60-00W.

1945	Plane of 92nd Reconnaissance Squadron reports she attacked a submarine at 40-55N, 66-35W, 145 miles E of Nantucket Shoals. Four 325 lb. DC's spaced 60 feet apart were dropped. No effects observed. Course of sub was 240° T. It was on surface when first observed, but too far away for description. Sub crashed dived when pilot began his run. Before dawn on April 13 Army planes from Westover will be in position for a westward sunrise sweep over the sub's estimated course. 0800: Results were negative.

2140	CGC VIGILANT reports sub sighted heading 335 T at 2021. Position 27-05N, 80-03W (8 miles E of St. Lucie's Inlet). VIGILANT reports herself aground and pounding badly. Requests assistance. 0800: Afloat inside reef.

2320	SS ZOELLA LYKES reported seeing a ship afire at 21-53N, 59-58W (about 400 miles NE of Puerto Rico).

2330	SSS from US Tanker SWIFTARROW (8200 tons) sighted 2 suspicious craft 22 1/2 miles, 150° T from St. Augustine Light.

APRIL 13

0007	Pan American plane reports vessel afire at 37-45N, 72-40W. CGC LEGARE sent at 10 knots speed to scene, arriving about 1000 April 13. Army DB7's investigating at dawn.

0650	US TANKER EDWARD L. SHEA, southbound, at 0636 passed a sinking vessel at 30-51N, 81-11W, 20 miles SE Brunswick, Ga. At 0410 saw 2 apparent explosions.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #883

APRIL 12, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0810	NORA OLMSVERRITE, (unlisted) small Swedish freighter, sighted afire before dawn, blew up about 0600 12 miles off NAS, Banana River, Fla. Planes overhead.

	SUMMARY:

	1.	Two attacks on submarines.

		One, LE TIGRE, says "Results promising."


	2.	Two definite losses:

		(a) STANVAC CALCUTTA sinking off Brazil.

		(b) NORSA OLMSVERITE (name may be incorrect) blown up off Banana River, Fla., NAS.


	3.	Three unidentified occurrences:

		(a) 2320 - Ship seen afire at 21-53N, 39-59W.

		(b) 007 April 13 - ship seen afire at 37-45N, 72-40W.

		(c) 0650 April 13 - ship seen sinking at 30-51N, 21-11W




			Submitted


			J. F. MALONEY
			Lieut. (jg) USNR.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #84

APRIL 13, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0805	C. G. plane reports derelict bottom up, apparently afloat and adrift, and constituting menace to navigation in 34-48N; 75-51W (about 30 miles, SSW from Cape Hatteras). Also reports sunken ship with both masts projecting above water, reasonably fresh oil slick and some debris but no boats in 35-24N; 75-21W. At 0925 SSS Allo from S.S. ORISTOBAL (U. S. Transport 10,021 tons) northbound in 34-49N; 75-47W about 5 miles inshore from position of reported derelict.

1015	Intercept from S.S. VICTORIA (Greek cargo 6,085 Tons or Greek cargo 4,202 Tons) at 0810, "SOS lifeboats about 300 miles from Sombrero Island bearing N 54 E. (Sombrero Island is about 90 miles, 79° T from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands). Boats later identified as from M.V. GRENANGER sunk April 11 540 miles NE of Puerto Rico (our 1300 April 11).

1020	C. G. Beaufort, N. C. received message from S.S. WILLIAM PENN (U. S. Cargo 7,815 Tons) "Please take 14 seamen ashore now at sea buoy at Beaufort". At 1248 Com5 reports that survivors from S.S. STANVAC MELBORNE (See our 1040 April 12) are all accounted for. 9 of the 14 aboard WILLIAM PENN are ship's crew and 5 from gun crew. Vessel's entire complement of 49 now said to be accounted for. Damaged vessel still afloat; in tow for Wilmington, N. C. At 2320 message from Com6 states STANVAC MELBOURNE attacked by 3 submarines 2330 April 11 in 33-53N; 77-29W (25 miles E of Cape Fear). 3 torpedoes fired, one hitting amidships. Ship's crew so far accounted for as follows: 28 of which 2 known dead and one missing, landed at Southfort, N. C. by C.G> 186. 9 landed at Moorehead City, N. C., armed guard all accounted for: 2 at Southport, 5 at Moorehead City. (This count of 45 does not agree with 49 previously given by Com5--Ed.) At 0330 dispatch from Com5 states crew totaled 49, all accounted for, only 1 missing. Status confidential papers unknown.

1040	S.S. TENNESSEE (our 0726 April 10) previously reported torpedoed, now reported safe. Arrived Delaware Capes 1945 April 12. Sailed Delaware Capes for New York 0630 April 13

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #84

APRIL 13, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1042	H.M.T. LE TIGRE reports object attacked (our 1825 April 12) was possible wreck of tankers. Ring (presumably "life" ring--Ed. observed in 34-36.5N; 75-44.5W at 2106 April 12.

1212	M.V. NORSA OLMSVERITE (our 0810 April 12) proved to be Swedish Motor Vessel KORSHOLM (2,647 Tons). She was shelled and set afire at approximately 0140Q off NAS Banana River, Florida. Nothing further.

1315	24 survivors of S.S. BALKIS (Norwegian Cargo 2,161 Tons) landed from S.S. SCANIA (Swedish Cargo 1,980 Tons) according to report from Port Captain of Fortaleza, Brazil. Apparently BALKIS was torpedoed at 1850 April 10, eight men including Master killed. Position given; 02-38 "West". If this is North latitude, it might suggest BALKIS as another victim of the sub that sank STANVAC CALCUTTA in same area on April 12, (our 1645 April 12).

1500	Nassau County Police Patrolman reported sub 3 miles offshore, Western and Long Beach, Long Island. At 1615 this "sub" is identified as small tanker off East Rockaway Island.

1528	Navy flying boat sighted sub at 39-08N; 68-17W. Sub submerged heading SW. Close to position of lifeboats (our 1125 April 12).

1737	S.S. EMPIRE PROGRESS (British cargo, 5,249 Tons) torpedoed in 40N; 53-36W. Time of attack uncertain; that given is receipt of message. Nothing further.

1955	EDC from NBC Radiogram reports S.S. EMPIRE LOTOS (unlisted Lloyds or Record) sinking in 43-55N; 61-59W at 1915. 12 feet of water in engine room. Corvette picking up survivors.

2030	Com5 reports TEXAS SUN (our 1020 April 12) towed off. Anchored in Lookout Bight. Proceeding North under own power. Damaged forward--not badly.

APRIL 14

0130	Fragmentary intercept by ComFive. "We hit sub with gunfire and sub went down. Also dropped one DC. There were about 25 men in water about 10 minutes ago. I don't think sub will surface again but she might be able to." At 0345 Roper (DD) reports she sighted sub on surface in 35-55 N., 75-13 W. Engaged with gunfire. Sub crew abandoned ship and sub apparently sank. Made two runs dropping DC's. Will stand by until daylight and endeavor to pick up survivors.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #84

APRIL 13, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0300	SSS by S.S. BRANDYWINE (U.S. Cargo 4,931 Tons) in 29-33 N., 81-02 W. Distress ended at 0530.

0342	SSS by S.S. EVELYN (U.S. Cargo 3,141 Tons) in 34-55 N., 75-57 W. Distress ended 0510.

0435	SSS intercept by Saybrook, Conn "6 miles due east of Blackfish Bank Buoy." No vessel identified.

	R.D.F.'s received during day:

	1. One within 100 miles of 41-00 N., 42-30 W. at 1949.
	2. One within 100 miles of 38-00 N., 52-00 W. at 2125.
	3. One within ? miles of 44-15 N., 68-14 W. at 1500. South of Mt. Desert Island, Maine.
	4. One within 100 miles of 29-00 N., 80-30 W. at 1456.
	5. One or more within 100 miles of 40-30 N., 56-00 W.

	SUMMARY:

	Sub attack: ROPER apparently sank sub.

	Sub losses: (unconfirmed) BALKIS
	EMPIRE PROGRESS

	Sinking vessel: (unconfirmed) EMPIRE LOTUS

	Vessel believed sunk, unharmed: TENNESSEE, enroute N.Y.


		Submitted


		A. S. BIGELOW
		Lt. (jg), USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #85

APRIL 14, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0830:	C.G. plane carrying no bombs sighted fishing vessel, MARY "A", at 44 N., 68-35 W. (between Matinicus Rock and Mount Desert Island). When sighted vessel started in northerly direction in a hurry. "Small boat" astern of MARY A, upon approach of plane, disappeared leaving 2 distinct wakes. Plane and surface craft despatched to area. (Note: R.D.F. at 1500 April 15 placed sub at 44-15 N., 68-14 W.)

0925:	EMPIRE THRUSH (British Cargo) torpedoed 35-12 N., 75-14 W. (8 miles north of Diamond Shoals). S.S. EVELYN heard the explosion and saw column of white smoke. Ship slowly settling at 1045. 5 patrol craft and 10 planes in vicinity. EMPIRE THRUSH was bound Tampa for Halifax with 800 tons of T.N.T. aboard. No report T.N.T. exploded. At 1156 EVELYN reported passing wreck of the EMPIRE THRUSH and at 1230 reported again that she had picked up "all survivors" of EMPIRE THRUSH.

1056:	EMPIRE PEREGRINE (British Cargo, 6622 tons) sighted periscope 1000 yards astern at 32-02 N., 68-54 W. (200 miles west of Bermuda.

1130:	S.S. LESLIE (U.S. Tanker, 2609 tons) torpedoed at 28-21 N., 80-19 W. about 1715 Q, April 13. 19 survivors landed at Cape Carneveral FLA. 4 dead, 28 missing.

1150:	ROPER picked up 29 bodies including 2 officers from sub she attacked at 35-55 N., 75-13 W. at 0130 April 14. Hull in 20 fathoms. Divers to investigate. At 1500 plane reports air bubbles coming to surface 100 feet away from buoy marking position now given as 35-48 N., 75-14 W. At 1745 Norfolk reported ROPER had transferred the bodies to the SCIOTO at Lynnhaven Roads and the SCIOTO proceeded to Section Base, presumably Norfolk.

1340:	E.D.C. reports sound contact off Swept Channel near position of the old Portland Lightship. Planes and surface craft despatched to scene.

1513:	Position of AMc 201 38-32 N., 67-25 W. Section Base New London estimate possible position of lifeboats which the AMc's are searching will be about 39-38 N., 66-46 W. at 0800

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #85

APRIL 14, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1515:	Sub sighted on surface 39-10 N., 67-50 W. but sub submerged before attack could be made.

1615:	S.S. MANGORE sighted sub and made direct hit at 28-42 N., 80-30 W. (about 20 miles from Cape Carnaveral, Fla.) Explosion - large quantity of oil came to surface. At 2115 object reported moving slowly seaward.

1902:	PC 513 made sound contact and dropped 2 depth charges at 43-47 N., 68-34 W. At 1950 plane sighted sub off Matinicus.

2019:	Sub sighted at 34-32 N., 76-24 W. (8 miles 120° T. from Cape Lookout).

0630:	S.S. W. S. FARISH (U.S. Tanker 11787 Tons) bound Aruba from New York sighted periscope 6 miles 100° T. from Cape Fear Light.

2145:	SIREN made sound contact and dropped 3 depth charges at 43-47 N., 68-38 W. Casco despatching U.S.S. BROOME (DD) to scene. This position is about 3 miles west of PC 513 attack (see 1902 above).

	According to the British Consulate the S.S. COMOL RICO (U.S. Tanker 5034 Tons) was torpedoed on either April 10 or 11. She was carrying a load of molasses and had departed Humancho, Puerto Rico on April 4 due Boston April 13. She could have been the tanker which exploded and vanished off Cape Lookout at 0730 April 11, as reported by the S.S. TENNESSEE and S.S. SANTA ROSA. A ship carrying molasses in bulk when torpedoed would be subject to violent explosion.

0320:	(APRIL 15) S.S. JEAN (U.S. Cargo 4902 tons) sighted sub at 28-42 N., 80-28 W. At 0355 lost sight of sub at 28-50 N., 80-27 W. Speed 13.

0635:	S.S. C. O. STILLMAN sighted tanker afire at34-49 N., 75-45 W. (off Cape Lookout).

0725:	S.S. S. CERQUE (call letters HBDH) reports she picked up 2nd Officer and men from M.S. KOLL (Norwegian Tanker 10044 Tons) at 34-39 N., 68-25 W. 2 boats from this steamer missing. This lifeboat met lifeboat of another

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #85

APRIL 14, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

	steamer "6 days too". (Note: We have had no previous report of KOLL torpedoing but S.S. KOLLSKEGG was reported torpedoed April 6 at 34-58 N., 68-38 W.)


		Submitted


		GEORGE DWIGHT
		Lieut., USNR.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #86

APRIL 15, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1000:	Com 5 reported that the German submarine sunk by U.S.S. ROPER was the U-85. The ROPER made a hit near the conning tower and opened with machine guns. Sub sank and crew went overboard. (See our 1150 April 14 and our 0150 April 13).

1150:	Com 5 is of the opinion that the following actions represent two separate German submarines.

	1. U.S.S. MACKEREL (SS) was attacked by a German sub at 0010 April 15. Position 37-10 N., 74-33 W. (Close aboard X-Ray Mike). Both submarines were on the surface at the time. Torpedoes were fired at her and at her escorting vessel the LEGARE (CG). The German sub at 18 knots was overtaking the MACKEREL, making 15 knots. The LEGARE was unable to keep up and altered her course to avoid a torpedo fires at her. The MACKEREL fired two torpedoes at the sub but no explosion was heard.
	2. The MACKEREL fired a torpedo at a German sub at 0503 April 15, 3 miles NE of Chesapeake Bay buoy at entrance to Chesapeake Bay. The TOURMALINE (CG) was at the buoy but was unable to contact German sub which went at the buoy but was unable to contact German sub which went away at high speed.

1215:	First Bomber Command reported that pilot sighted a periscope but was unable to get into position to bomb. Position 40-40 N., 68-05 W.

1500:	S.S. EMPIRE THRUSH (Our 0925 April 14) torpedoed at 0920 April 14. Position 35-08 N., 75-18 W. Entire British crew of 50 saved. Vessel sunk but mast and funnel still above water.

1720:	Com 5 duty officer reports that 9 survivors from S.S. RIO BLANCO (British Cargo 4586 tons) were landed at Norfolk. Ship was torpedoed at 0920 April 1st 60 miles due E of Cape Hatteras. 31 missing. Crew all British. One boat possibly got away under sail. This is the first information on this vessel.

1745:	MOBILGAS (U.S. Tanker, 9860 tons). SSS Observed periscope at 1649. Position 31-12 N., 80-55 W. (about 25 miles off Brunswick, Georgia.)

2125:	SSS S.S. GREYLOCK (U.S. Cargo, 7460 tons). Reports sub sighted at 2125. Position 32-42 N., 73-39 W. 320 miles E. of Charleston. At 0614 April 16 GREYLOCK sent another SSS - sub sighted at 34-12 N, 74-00 W. 130 miles E. of Cape Lookout.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #86

APRIL 15, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

2345:	Army reported flares seen and loud explosions heard ten miles south of Jacksonville Beach, 2 miles offshore. Charleston has one trawler in the area. Nothing further heard.

0200:	April 16. Search instituted for a utility amphibian JRF-3 overdue at Floyd Bennett. Inspat, Coast Guard, Army & Navy planes searching area 40-20 N., to 40-38 N.; 72-20 W. to 72-40 W., determined by Derax and weak message - probably from plane - to be most likely area.

0315:	BUCHANAN (DD) made attack on sound contact at 1330 Q at 43-00 N., 69-55 W. - 40 miles east of Isles of Shoals off Portsmouth, N. H. 2 DD's conducting search in this area until 0800 April 16.

0330:	NOB Bermuda reports an empty lifeboat and oil slick at 33-50 N., 71-10 W. Another oil slick at 34-30 N., 72W. These positions E of Cape Fear, about half-way to Bermuda NOB Bermuda says, "Questionable whether these slicks relate to EMPIRE PEREGRINE."

0745:	SHEHERAZADE, 13,467 ton Panamanian-registry tanker aground 5 miles S of Fort Lauderdale.


		G. D. STOUT



	SUMMARY:

	- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

	No sinkings reported other than RIO BLANCO sunk April 1st.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #86

APRIL 16, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

All Times E.W.T.

0747:	EMPIRE PEREGRINE (British Cargo - 6622 tons) reported disabled April 14 at 1630 Q en route Hampton Roads arrived there at 1050 Q April 16.

0854:	A B-17 bomber accompanied by a O-46 attacked a sub with D.S.'s at 35-22N, 75-13W. Periscope disappeared and swirls were seen. Cominch later reported an RDF within 100 miles 36-N, 75W as of 2345 April 15.

1047:	C. G. at Rehoboth Beach 6 miles south of Cape Henelopen reported hearing several heavy explosions at sea. Cape May sent out planes to investigate.

1115:	MANGROVE (CG) sighted conning tower and top surface of sub 3 miles N. of Frying Pan Shoals Lightship Station (Cape Fear) at 1054. Position 33-31N, 77-34W.

1130:	Intelligence reported S. S. COMOL RICO (U. S. Tanker - 5034 tons) was torpedoed and sunk on April 4 north of Santo Domingo. 29 survivors including Captain landed in Puerto Rico.

1345:	Plane reported to Com 5 a sinking freighter, one life raft and one lifeboat at 35-32N, 72-36W. at 1255. Com 5 diverted the STRINGHAM (APD) to investigate. At 1600 an Army bomber reported the life raft and life boat lashed together 4 miles north of above position with 31 survivors. 2 PBM's in vicinity but no surface vessels. At 0133 a message from the STRINGHAM stated she had arrived in area and had sighted nothing.

1415:	Cominch reported sub sighted at 18-48N, 66-25W. at 0436 April 16.

1800:	S.S. JOHN D. ARCHBOLD (U. S. Tanker - 12,900 tons) reported sighting tanker sinking at approximately 31N, 81W at 1703. This is probably the wreck of the S.S. ESPARTA torpedoed April 9 at 30-46N, 81-11W.

1935:	CG reported mine adrift 200 yards at SW NORTON POINT, Coney Island, N. Y. Mine resembled a 124 mine. Port Wadsworth notified.

- 1 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #86

APRIL 16, 1942.

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

All Times E.W.T.

2130:	EDC reported 3 explosions south of Narragansett Bay at 2000 and firing was heard at 2115. At 2213 red flares were thrown from a car near Fort Kearny, the car escaping and the flares being extinguished by an Infantry Patrol. One suspicious person who lighted a flare near Narragansett Pier was apprehended by Infantry Patrol, another escaped in an automobile which was identified by R. I. police who are searching. Harbor Defense mines were put in contact at 2232, at about which time a searchlight picked up bubbles off Castle Hill, Fort Adams. At 0030 the S.S. BENJAMIN HARRISON on course 53° T, sighted a sub 10 miles S by E of Brento Reef and opened fire. Lost sight of sub at 0045, at which time the BENJAMIN HARRISON was at 41-19N, 71-08W. Distress ended at 0132 April 17.

2223:	EDC reported 8 shots heard east of Fort Moultrie Derax Station at 2147.

2330:	SOS from S.S. ALCOA - GUIDE (U. S. CARGO - 4834 tons) being shelled by sub and afire at bridge. Lifeboats manned at 2212. Vessel was bound for Port of Spain, Trinidad, on outside course from Norfolk. Estimated position from bearings 35-18N, 71-33W. or about 200 miles east of Cape Hatteras.

0010:	SOS from S.S. HEINRICH VON REIDEMANN (Panamanian tanker - 11,020 tons) torpedoed at 2336, position 11-51N, 63-40W.

0630:	RDF from OPNAV within 200 miles of 37-30N, 62-30W. The MIZAR (AK) en route from Iceland to Hampton Roads is in this area and has been advised.

0700:	Two O-46 Air Support planes dropped 4-100 lb. demolition bombs on an oil slick at 35-25N, 75-15W at 0217 April 17.

0715:	RDF from Cominch within 200 miles 35-45N, 75-15W at 0217 April 17.

SUMMARY:

	1. Two attacks on submarines.

	2. One definite loss:
	COMOL RICO north of Santo Domingo April 4 (Sunk).

- 2 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #86

APRIL 16, 1942.

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

All Times E.W.T.

	3. Three possible losses:
	(a) ALCOA-GUIDE (torpedoed) 35-18N, 71-33W.
	(b) HENRICH VON REIDEMAN off Venezuela (torpedoed).
	(c) Unidentified freighter (sinking) 35-32N, 72-36W.



		Submitted
		J. A. HOWELL
		Lieut. (J.G.) U.S.N.R.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #87

APRIL 17, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

All Times E.W.T.

0915 -	U.S.S. BUCHANAN (DD) reports that the American Dragger FANNIE FOX HICKEY operating out of Gloucester was boarded and searched in 43-11 N; 69-58 W. Radar had indicated suspicion of radio activity. Although her radio equipment was sealed, all USCG screwed on the door hasps were loose and the set gave positive indication of recent use although this was denied by the master, Occursio Cirilla.

1010 -	Radio Puerto Cabesa reports it heard an SOS at 0820 of a sub attack at 25-25 N; 87-10 W. Unable to identify call letters. (Possibly the S/S GULF MAID.) Nothing further heard on this.

1100 -	Position of lifeboat with 14 and raft with 8 aboard reported by Com 5 to STRINGHAM as 35-25 N; 72-25 W; at 0915.

1300 -	EDC reports that the "sub" the S/S BENJAMIN HARRISON fired on at 0030 April 17 was a friendly vessel rather than a sub.

1430 -	10 survivors of 10004 ton Norwegian Tanker KOLL landed at New York by the by the S/S SAINTE CERQUE. 9 more and 1 dead person landed at Lewes, Delaware by the S/S/ LOBITO. Survivors landed here are hospitalized at Norwegian Hospital in Brooklyn. The KOLL was twice torpedoed, shelled and sunk in 35 N; 68-24 W; at 1030 L.A.T. April 6 apparently by an Italian submarine of the Argonaut class. Chief engineer and 1 crew member unaccounted for. It is known that at least one other lifeboat left the ship. The survivors landed in New York contacted a seaworthy lifeboat with 6 occupants in good condition from the Norwegian KOLLSKEGG on April 7 at about 1100 L.A.T.

1530 -	S/S TROJAN U.S. Cargo, last reported off Cape Race afternoon of April 13, bearing 250° T, en route St. Johns N.B. No further report. (NY Port Director says she left New York April 5 at 1900).

1545 -	Army B-25 from Charleston sighted a tanker believed to be the ERRICKSON (not listed) aground and flying distress signal at 33-37 N; 77-55 W; 15 miles east of Cape Fear. Charleston dispatched patrol vessel and tug to scene.

1600 -	Airplane pilot reports sighting 3 black fishing boats at 1320, 090° T, 25 miles from Isles of Shoals. Fishing boats arranged in triangle with large oil slick in center. "Appeared to be fueling submarine. Submarine not sighted." Boats similar to these reported by this pilot on April 15. ARRON WARD proceeding to scene to search until 0800 April 18.

- 1 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #87

APRIL 17, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

All Times E.W.T.

1855 -	"VICTORIA (call letters LOUV) SOS at 36-41 N; 68-48 W. Taking to boats. NOB Bermuda sent airplanes to arrive at 2300. DD's SWANSON and NICHOLSON to proceed to scene April 18.

2215 -	Tug LOCUST POINT reported being "attacked" by sub off Bodie Island, near Oregon Inlet. Position about 35-52 N; 75-30 W. At 2228 she radioed: "We are zig-zagging back and forth. Submarine seems to have submerged." At 0155 came an SSS ALLO from Tug EDWARD J MORAN in almost precisely the same location - "Sighted sub 2 miles abeam Bodie Island Gas Buoy Light at 0120."

0335 -	April 18 - SSS ALLO from KDTU, the American Tanker J. A. Moffett, Jr. 9788 tons. in 24-36 N; 80-55 W; (in Straits of Florida).



		Submitted:


		J. F. MALONEY
		Lieut.(jg), USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #88

APRIL 18, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

April 17


1830	ComSix reports S.S. ERRCKSON (our 1545 April 17) still aground. Tug sent from Wilmington. By 0921 April 18 no vessel aground in that vicinity.

2300	Blimp observed life boat with red sail in 36-02N, 72-32 W making 3 - 4 knots under sail, course 270°. Force 3 breeze from 240°. Position is 30 miles, 007° T from sinking freighter reported 33 hours 15 minutes before (our 1345 April 16)

April 18

0110	Re S.S. VICTORIA (our 1855 April 17) USS OWL (AM) directed to scene by NOB Bermuda. 1100 OWL's Commander reports hi executive officer and 7 of his men aboard VICTORIA, both engines going, bound for Bermuda. 1445 Bermuda corrects position of sub (our 0537 below) to OWL as 36-22N, 68-54W. About 0900 SWANSON (DD) departs New York for area, followed about 1400 by NICHOLSON (DD). Meanwhile GREER (DD) departs Bermuda at 1330, possibly followed by TARBELL (DD). 1630 NOB Bermuda directed OWL to send VICTORIA to New York, and accompany her after at least 2 destroyers arrive at scene. 1915 OWL reports Diesel trouble on VICTORIA, expects have her underway daylight 19th, if not, will tow her and YOG to New York. 0220 April 19th ComThree gives position as 36-57 N, 68-17 W, drifting NE 3 knots, and sends SAGMORE (AT to assist as necessary. (Note: VICTORIA cannot be definitely identified. Possibly same vessel that reported GRENAGER lifeboats 300 miles from Sombrero Island (our 1300 April 11). May be one of two Greek cargos, 6,085 and 4,202 tons, or U.S. one of two Greek cargos, 6,085 and 4,202 tons, or U.S. cargo 3,914 tons. Bermuda thinks she is Argentine tanker.)

0537	Navy plane reports sub in 36-25W, 68-45W. Cominch reports same position and time with difference of one degree less of longitude, probably an error. First position is about 15 miles from VICTORIA distress (0110 above)

0930	USS WINOOSKI (AO) saw sub submerge in 35-36N, 74-14W; and further reports no action in 33-43N, 74-14W at 1019.

- 1 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #86

APRIL 18, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1029	S.S. CHEROKEE reports ship afire 12 miles, 167° T from Ocracoke Inlet. At 1330 intercepted warning to all ships to stay clear of burning wreck in 34-56N, 75-56W, proceeding to sink her with bombs. 1500 Navy Air Control ascertained that permission had been given to Navy fliers to bomb bottom-up derelict reported menace to navigation near this position (our 0805 April 13) with demolition bombs. Derelict subsequently caught fire. ComFive believes this to be either MALCHASE (our 0325 April 9) or TAMALIPAS (our 0325 April 9).

1135	ComFive phoned that U-85 definitely located by diver in 35-55N, 75-13W (our 1150 April 14)

1140	ComFive reports LIEBRE (our 0141 and 1515 April 2) in port in Norfolk. Definitely torpedoed.

1254	STRINGHAM (DD) reports D.C. attack on sub in 36-54 N, 75-47 W.

1330	Army bomber observed destroyer circling debris, lumber, oil, and empty lifeboat in 37-05 N, 75-33 W. Saw three dark patches 100 feet in diameter, in straight line about 400 feet apart.

1545	Intercept from SS MALANTIC. She heard 2 explosions, saw much smoke in 36-35N, 74-45W.

1602	Air Support Command sighted "a lumber vessel disabled with hole in her side" about 20 miles off shore, approximately 37-55 N, 74-55W, right by Winter Quarter Shoal Light. "Heavy oil slick around vessel - not moving - appears to have been shelled. People on board vessel." Navy Air Control established this vessel to be barge ONTARIO (our 1135 March 31) now aground.

1632	Info Center reported civilian spotter at Southhampton, L.I. Saw surface vessel offshore; plane circled overhead and flew away. Sub then appeared running to eastward. Floyd Bennett sent planes to position 076°, 66 miles from Ambrose Light, 3 Army P-38s circling position. (About 40-45 N, 72-26 W off Shinnecock. Close to position above) Patrol craft in area notified.

- 2 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #88

APRIL 18, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1925	ComFive reports sub torpedo attack on convoy, 3 miles S of Wimble Shoals Buoy. One ship hit. Planes and surface patrols rushed to area. Vessel is M.F. ELLIOTT (U.S. Tanker, 6,940 tons). 2300 phone report that she is proceeding at 9 knots under her own power.

2015	SSSS from 104th Observation Squadron in 38-37N, 74-52W, of Ocean City, Md. PE56 and other craft dispatched to position. Another intercept at same time said sub on surface, speed 5 knots - no course given.

2330	Army plane dropped 1 D.C. on sub in 38-45N, 74-43W. Results undetermined. Sub was sighted.



	Cominch reports following subs:

	RDF, 1 within 60 miles 39N, 67-30W at 172054
	RDF, 1 within 100 miles 40-30N, 52W at 172100
	RDF, 1 within 200 miles 35N, 74W at 181311
	RDF, 1 within 100 miles 33-45N, 74-15W at 181311.


		Submitted:


		A. S. BIGELOW
		Lieut. (jg(, USNR.

	Further Cominch DF bearings show sub:
	1 within 200 miles 42-15N, 60W at 182309.
	1 within 200 miles 19-15N, 66-30W at 190038.
	1 within 100 miles 33-30N, 75-30 W at 182148

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #89

APRIL 19, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1130:	Army bomber command reports plane sighted 2 lifeboats, 8 men in each, one with a white sail, one with a yellow streamer. Position 34.35N - 71.08W at 0734. They were picked up about 2000 by the BROOME. 27 survivors from the ALCOA GUIDE in good condition. Captain Cobb and 1 seaman are dead. Broome inbound. ETA Cape Henry 1600.

1210:	Aruba reports that at 0315 April 17 a submarine fired about five 37mm tracer shells at oil tanks at Buller Bay, Curacao. No hits reported. Shore battery fired one round. PC475 searching area.

1412:	Naval air control reported that a tanker was observed listing to port, 50 miles SW of Cape Hatteras, (about 34-30N; 76-00W, possibly a derelict)..

1600:	Re SS VICTORIA (probably Argentine tanker, 7416 tons) (see our 0110 April 18). At 1140 NICHOLSON (DD) reported she picked up 15 survivors including captain and 2nd and 3rd engineer officers. 24 survivors remaining in one boat, position unknown. At 1210 USS OWL (AM) reported she picked officer and 19 men and put them back on S.S. VICTORIA and is escorting her to New York. Position 36.30N - 68-30W. At 1550 U.S.S. NICHOLSON reported U.S.S. SAGAMORE designated to proceed to scene and escort VICTORIA.

2010:	Two PT's were sent out at 1755 to search area 40.40N -71.15W where a sub was sighted at 1640 by an army plane, which dropped no bombs. Planes were also sent to scene.

2021:	EDC reported that at 1915 a fishing party on the Jetties NE of Amelia Light (near mouth of St. John's river, Fla.) saw a sub come up and then submerge. At 0110 April 20 the 9976-Ton Norwegian Tanker BRITAMER passed a sub "very close" at 30-18N; 81-14W--about 20 miles south of above position. And at 0447 a patrol boat sighted a submarine at 30-15N; 81-18W, 8 miles S of St. Johns Lightship.

2100:	Bomber command reported that at 1645 a freighter was fired on by a sub. Position 31.30N - 81.00W. Trawler standing by.

- 1 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL NO. 89

APRIL 19, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

2115:	U.S.S. SEMMES (DD) following scattered lines of empty oil drums on base course 050° T. Will search to 35.50N - 71.30W and thence 34.35N - 71.00W which encompasses area in which various reports were received.

2123:	AXTELL J. BYLES (U.S. tanker, 8955 tons) was torpedoed but not sunk while in Northbound convoy at 1835, April 18. Position 34.39N - 74-19W. No casualties. Arrived Hampton Roads at 1700 April 19 under her own power. At 2140 Com5 reported by telephone that they believe that tanker M.F. ELLIOTT (see our 1925, April 18) was erroneously reported hit, inasmuch as escort vessel DUANE reported that entire convoy had arrived safely except the AXTELL J. BYLES.

2120:	British trawler ST. LOMAN sighted a suspicious white light at 39-05N; 73-50W, 50 miles east Cape May. Investigated, challenged six times, fired star shells, whereupon vessel speeded to 17 knots and extinguished light. Followed vessel by her Diesel motors until lost her at 2202.

2200:	S.S. EXMINSTER (U.S. cargo 4955 tons) was rammed 1 mile NE Cape Cod Canal East entrance breakwater light by the S/S ALGIC, eastbound. The EXMINSTER sank in 50 feet of water, not in the channel. Crew of 34 on board tug VENUS. The ALGIC is heading toward Boston under her own power, leaking, with bow and stern plates badly damaged.

APRIL 20

0100:	Intelligence reports that on April 16 at 2015 the S.S. TIBERIUS, about 2 miles off Oregon Inlet saw a floodlight coming from shore. Almost simultaneously a sub came to the surface about 2 points on the starboard bow. The captain swung hard to bring guns to bear but sub went right past heading south on the surface. Captain stated sub looked like Italian.

0310:	Col. Dale O. Smith in an army radar-equipped plane got a contact at 0310, 10 miles due E Cape Charles. A flare was dropped and a conning tower and swirl sighted. No chance to drop bombs. 2 Coast Guard boats in vicinity. Navy plane sent to position 37-09N; 75-50W.

- 2 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL NO. 89

APRIL 19, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0640:	MANCHESTER DIVISION (6048-Ton British freighter) sent SOS at 0620 from 50-29N; 44-22W. "Water gaining rapidly. Require assistance." Cause of distress not given. Position is 400 miles NE Cape Race.


Summary:

	EXMINSTER sunk by collision.

	MANCHESTER DIVISION in distress from undetermined cause.





		Submitted,


		O. D. STOUT

- 3 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial No. 90

APRIL 20, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0800:	U.S.S. TARBELL (DD) searched area in vicinity RDF - 341° T, 150 mi. Bermuda (33-57N; 66-55W.) from 1700 to 2238 April 19 without result.

0930:	Intercept from S.S. MALANTIC (U.S. Cargo - 3857 tons) (See our 1545 April 18) "All tankers leaving Overfalls Lightship you are being followed by submarine". Overfalls Lightship is at entrance Delaware Capes. Cominch reported a sub sighted at 0831 at 38-46N; 74-54W., or about 7 miles S by E of Overfalls Lightship.

1000:	Cominch reported a sub sighted at 44-36N; 67-16W. at 0630 April 20.

1100:	S.S. MANCHESTER DIVISION (British Cargo - 6048 tons) previously reported in distress (See our 0640 April 19) stated her position as 49-57N; 44-50W. endeavoring to steer 245°.

1200:	Navy Intelligence reports results of interviews with survivors (landed from S.S. George Washington, Alcoa, in N.Y. April 19) from following vessels:

	SCOTTISH STAR (Brit. Cargo - 7,224 tons) torpedoed and sunk 600 miles East of Trinidad February 19, 1942. 69 of 75 rescued. (See sinking file).

	UMTATA (British cargo - 8141 tons) sunk alongside quay at Santa Lucia at 2255 L.C.T. March 9, 1942 by sub which came in harbor. Being repaired. Passenger believes other ships torpedoed at same time (See sinking file).

	CIRCLE SHELL (Brit. tanker - 8207 tons) torpedoed and sunk Feb. 21, 1942, 30 miles off Port of Spain, Trinidad. 57 survivors, 1 killed.

	UNIWALECO (Brit. whaler tanker - 9755 tons) Mar 7, 1942 at approximately 13N; 61W. 38 survivors out of 51.

	OSCILLA (Dutch tanker - 6341 tons) torpedoed and sunk at approximately 19N; 60W., March 1942. 52 of 56 rescued.

APRIL 20, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

	N.B. - These last three vessels are not recorded in our sinking file.

1257:	From Cross Island L.B. Station - East side entrance to Machias Bay, Maine - sub sighted at 0630. Painted a dark color and last seen S by E headed in an Easterly direction, distance approximately 2 miles following shore line.

1300:	Cominch reported army plane B-25 sighted sub at 40-50N; 69-45W. at 1205 April 20.

1328:	S.S. COTATI (Brit. cargo - 5963 tons) chased by sub at 43-19N; 58-46W. or about 390 miles east of Cape Sable, N.S.

1410:	Cominch reports sub sighted at 27-30N; 80-07W. at 0440 April 20.

1500:	Com 5 reported sub contact at 1440 April 20. Position 37-00N; 75-10W. 170° T, 12 1/2 miles.

1600:	Owners report Stanvac CALCUTTA which was reported torpedoed April 12 reached Barranquilla, Columbia safely.

1702:	Com 4 reports 9 survivors of Norwegian tanker KOLL (see our 1430 April 17 referring to survivors landed at Lewes, Del) were picked up April 16 at 0730 position 37-50N; 70-30W. DIO memorandum of interview with survivors landed at New York by S.S. SAINTE CERQUE reports crew comprised 34 men including the master of whom 9 were landed in New York by the SAINTE CERQUE, 9 were landed at Lewes, Del. by the LOBITO, 2 were killed, leaving 14 unaccounted for in one lifeboat which is still missing. The KOLL was sunk by an Italian submarine April 6 at 0730 at 35N; 68-24W.

1820:	U.S.S. SAGAMORE (AT) relieved U.S.S. OWL (AM) as escort for S.S. VICTORIA en route New York.

1825:	Navy blimp dropped 2 DC's on a radar contact at 38-29N; 74-30W. about 1810 April 20.

1835:	S.S. OREGON EXPRESS (Norwegian Cargo - 3642 tons) sighted sub at 30-20N; 81-18W. about 1825 April 20. This position

- 2 -

APRIL 20, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

	off Jacksonville is very near to where the Norwegian tanker BRITAMER reported she passed a sub "very close" at 0110 April 20. It is also not far from the wreck of the S.S. ESPARATA which has the top of her mast showing above water, and has been frequently reported before.

1955:	U.S.S. NICHOLSON reported sighting white flare at 2130 April 19 at 36-03N; 68W. Searched area several hours believing it could be drifting lifeboat.

2320:	SOS from S.S. WEST IMBODEN (U.S. Cargo - 5151 tons) torpedoed and sinking at 1850 at 41-14N; 65-55W. THis position is approximately 237 miles due east of Nantucket and bears 186 t. 130 miles from Cape Sable, N.S. A late intercept states that a Navy PBY plane left Quonset at 0515 and is en route to the scene to search for survivors.

0210:	S.S. HARJURAND (Estonian cargo - 812 tons) from Port Medway, NS.S. for Wilmington, Del. sprung leak near Fairway Buoy at entrance C.C. Canal. Now anchored off Sagamore Beach.

0215:	Com 5 reports 27 survivors of S.S. ALCOA GUIDE (U.S. Cargo 4834 tons) shelled and sunk at 35-34N; 70-08W. at 2150 April 16 landed NOB, Norfolk by U.S.S. BROOME (DD) 21 Americans, 4 Canadians, 1 Latvian, 1 Estonian; 2 dead, 5 missing. Confidential documents sunk in bag.

0725:	S.S. FALMOUTH (U.S. Cargo - 2606 tons) reports sub sighted at 35-41N; 74-45W. at 0700 April 21.

	Cominch DF bearings show subs as follows:

	1. Within 100 miles of 40-30N; 49-00W. at 0609 April 19.
	2. Within 100 miles of 37-30N; 56-00W. at 1948 April 20.
	3. Within 100 miles of 38-00N; 56-00W. at 2117 April 20.
	4. Within 200 miles of 35-00N; 69-00W. at 2110 April 20.
	5. Within 100 miles of 35-30N; 68-00W. at 2213 April 20.

	SUMMARY

	1 ship torpedoed and sinking. S.S. WEST IMBODEN (U.S. Cargo 5151 tons)
	3 ships sunk not previously reported:
	a) S.S. CIRCLE SHELL (British Tanker - 8207 tons) Feb. 21, 1942.
	b) S.S. UNIWALECO (British Whaler Tanker 9755 tons) Mar. 7, 1942
	c) S.S. OSCILLA (Dutch tanker - 6341 tons) March 16, 1942.

		Submitted


		John A. Howell, Lieut. (JG) USNR

- 3 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial No. 91

APRIL 21, 1942.

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

1250 -	A B-25 from Wilmington, N.C. sighted sub at 35-18 N; 74-49 W, 35 miles E of Cape Hatteras. Three Army planes searched area. Results negative. Navy radar plane searched after dark.

1305 -	SOS from S/S PIPESTONE COUNTY (5102-ton U.S. cargo) torpedoed in 37-43 N; 66-16 W at 1135, 300 miles N of Bermuda. Bermuda sent patrol plane to scene.

1615 -	S/S TROJAN unreported since April 13 arrived safely in St. Johns, N.S.

1618 -	BRISTOL (DD) picked up entire crew of S/S/ WEST IMBODEN (torpedoed 1850 on April 20), One lifeboat picked up at 1618 in 41-10 N; 65-41 W. Second boat found at 1854 in 40-53 N; 65-38 W. All of crew in good shape. Survivors probably will be landed at Boston.

1630 -	Army bomber saw diesel smoke and oil slick at 41-12N; 70-50W. Possibly from sub. Position 8 miles south of Marthas Vineyard.

1726 -	Army DB-7 sighted periscope 3 feet out of water just ahead, 500 feet. Apparent course of sub 180°. Position 40 miles off Cape May, 38-42N; 74-07W. Pilot turned to attack but attention distracted by fish just north of original sighting. By time he came about for another run one minute had elapsed from time periscope seen. No attack was made.

2010 -	Tug SAGAMORE and S/S VICTORIA arrived New York.

2200 -	American tanker GULFHAWK (10,000 tons) proceeding north, loaded, broke crankshaft and in need of tow at 33-23N; 78-41W. Tug UMPQUA sent to assist. Position 40 miles SW Cape Fear.

2350 -	Norfolk reports MALTRAIN (3513-ton U.S. cargo) aground outer Diamond Shoals and BRITA MER (9976-ton Norwegian tanker) aground on Diamond Shoals. HMT SENATEUR DUHAMEL and HMT LADY ROSEMARY attempting tow them off. Air coverage provided at daylight.

0115, April 22.

	SEATRAIN TEXAS reports that at 0102 she sighted 3 suspicious vessels lying on surface with no navigation lights, signaling each other. Position 23-26N; 82-37W, 25 miles north of Havana, Cuba.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial No. 91

APRIL 21, 1942.

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

0745 -	Mackay Radio intercepted, "From SAN JACINTO. Four lifeboats 31-00 N; 70-45 W. Children, women, passengers, crew need help." We have no record of SAN JACINTO (U.S. cargo, 6069 tons) being in distress.



	RDF fixes April 21 show subs as follows:

		35-30 N; 70 W at 0910.
		38 N; 52-45 W at 1326.
		26 N; 72 W at 2040.
		39 N; 67 W at 2110.
		26-15 N; 71-50 W at 2040.







	SUMMARY

	S/S PIPESTONE COUNTRY torpedoed.



			Submitted.


			J. F. MALONEY,
			Lt. (jg) USNR.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL NO. 92

APRIL 22, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

0745 -	S. S. SAN JACINTO (our 0745 Apr. 21 - U.S. cargo 6,069 tons - sailed from N.Y. Apr. 18 for San Juan with cargo and about 160 passengers. Position given; 31N, 70-45W; is about on course in her sailing orders).

	At 0730 BROOKLYN (CL), distant about 40 miles, dispatches ROWAN (DD) to scene. At 1030 Bermuda reports plane enroute.

	At 1115 Mackay Radio reports San JACINTO life boat #4 can hear signals from Charleston and Amagansett.

	At 1335 plane has located survivors according to Bermuda dispatch. At 1351 Bermuda reports plane has sighted small oil slick in 31-12N, 70-26W, boats moving westward. At 1356 Bermuda notifies plane that ROWAN is in vicinity.

	Meanwhile ROWAN reports that she has picked up 5 boatloads of survivors in 31-25N, 70-45W at 1240, believes "only 1 submarine in vicinity, she fired torpedoes."

	At 1510 Bermuda dispatch says her plane has 8 survivors aboard. Reports DERRYHEEN (unlisted Lloyds or Record, although a DERRYNANE - Brit. cargo 4,896 tons is) torpedoed at 0330 (no date). No casualties. 3 boats with red sails one with radio located. Assume survivors reported in CESF dispatch 221214.

	ROWAN reports rescuing 18 survivors from S.S. STEELMAKER (U.S. cargo 6,176 tons) in 32-06.5N, 70-52W. STEELMAKER attacked in 33-48N, 70-36W at 2230 Apr. 19. One motor boat containing 26 survivors missing.

	At 2043 Bermuda says "survivors include remainder in 3 boats from DERRYHEEN."

0835 -	Army plane sighted moving oil slick in 36-05N, 75W (30 miles due East of Albemarle Sound). Dropped 3 DCs; no visible result. Circled area 2 hours, dropped aluminum slick and smoke bomb. Oil slick moved beyond aluminum slick and passed through it moving against wind. Pattern of oil slick showed 2 complete circles, both times returning to course 20°. Com 5 sent ROPER

- 1 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL NO. 92

APRIL 22, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0920 -	Received intercept by Com 3, "Periscope sighted 160°T, 25 miles off Assateaque Light (41 miles, 57° from Cape Charles. 27 1/2 miles, 204° from Winter Quarter, 37-30N, 75-10W.)

0920 -	S.S. MALTRAN and S.S. BRITAMER (our 2350 Apr. 21) SCIOTA ordered to assist. At 1132 Com 5 reports MALTRAN floated off and seaworthy.

0955 -	UMPQUA reached S.S. GULF HAWK (our 2200 Apr. 21). Due Charleston at midnight.

1015 -	Pan American plane sights sub in 13-50S, 38-48W (Mid Atlantic Trinidad and Dakar).

1320 -	Civilian Air Patrol reports sub sighted in 39-40N, 75-55W (off Barnegat Light).

1320 -	Army plane saw blimp in about 39-31N, 73-45W (about 10 miles from position in 1320 above) circling oil slick, with large bubbles rising from it. Blimp had dropped 2 smoke flares. Plane dropped 3 DCs (1 over 100 feet, 1 over 50 feet, 1 in middle). Another Army plane arrived, dropped 3 more. At 1550 Blimp K-3 reported that a patrol boat had a contact in 39-40N, 73-55W. Com 4 reported at 2025 that Brigantine Life Saving Station heard a very loud explosion offshore at 1945. PC boats investigating.

1755 -	Report from Army plane in 38-15N, 74-35W (close aboard Delaware Capes x-ray Mike position) "Saw wake and bubbles, dropped one DC, patrol boat in vicinity now."

1900 -	Navy plane crashed 1 mile off Wash Woods C.G. Station (about 5 miles South of False Cape) in 36-30N, 75-50W. Planes and surface craft dispatched to area. Plane identified as single seater fighter towing target. Little hope held for (as yet) unidentified pilot or machine.

1945 -	Army plane sighted unidentified freighter apparently in trouble 4 miles South of Chesapeake Light Vessel. 9 splashes near vessel, 2 planes in vicinity. At 1959 C. G. vessel on way to investigate signaled SSSS. Position is 36-55N, 75-42W.

- 2 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL NO. 92

APRIL 22, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1420 -	BROOME report of 1420 April 22 on underwater sound contact in 37-04.5N, 74-53.5W (37 1/2 miles EXN Chesapeake Light Vessel) Approx. 325 feet long - expended 13 DC's Results: Negative. RAVEN in area following up contact. Possibly submerged wreck.

April 23

0234 -	SSS from S.S. LAURA (KEXN, U.S. cargo 2,967 tons) sighted submarine in 29-23N, 80-57W.

0546 -	Broken intercept from CIUDAD DE BUENOS AIRES (LOFK, Argentine cargo 3,987 tons). Bearings; 137° from Fire Island, 217.5° from Surfside fix in 39-26N, 71-56W.

0650 -	Army plane sighted sub in 38-45N, 74-40W. Speed 1 knot, course 30° T.

0655 -	Pan American plane reported sighting sub in 34-07N, 67-38W.

1942	Apr. 22 - HDCP Fort Story (off Virginia Beach) reports ship signaling SOS, put up 1 red flare. 2 explosions observed. Surface craft from Com 5 made contact 076, 12 1/2 miles from Cape Henry. Made 3 DC attacks, destroyed contact.

1935	Apr. 22 - ROWAN dispatch says, "Arrive Norfolk 1130 Q. (Apr. 23) with 177 survivors, including 32 women and 5 children. Ambulance needed for 8."

	RDF fixes show subs near:
	32N, 69-30W at 0136 Apr. 22.
	32N, 69-30W at 0818 Apr. 22.
	33N, 71-15W at 2028 Apr. 22.
	33-30N, 71-15W at 2036 Apr. 22.

SUMMARY

	3 Probable sinkings:
		SAN JACINTO (our 0745 Apr. 21)
		DERRYHEEN
		STEELMAKER

	3 Attacks on enemy, results doubtful.

		Submitted


		A. S. BIGELOW
		Lieut. (jg) USNR

- 3 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL #93

APRIL 23, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0830:	S.S. REINHOLT (Norwegian Cargo, 4,799 tons) was reported on fire as a result of a submarine attack at 0700. Position 39.18 N, 72.57 W. Plane from U.S.S. BROOKLYN (CL) sent to scene and Army bomber remaining to search for submarine. At 1030 a Coast Guard plane saw the RHIND (DD) alongside the REINHOLT, helping the crew douse the fire. A blimp was also at the scene. Suddenly RHIND proceeded one half mile N/W, dropped depth charges, returned and hove to while crew re-embarked. Plane circled scene, sighted swirl and summoned RHIND which dropped more depth charges with no apparent results. REINHOLT then got underway for New York with RHIND escorting. Both ships were reported inbound the Narrows at about 1900. Plane searched further at 39-27 N., 71-56 W, found cloud of smoke and wreckage but no vessel in sight.

0919:	Pan American plane due New York at 1030 reports sighting 9 submarines at 38-53 N, 72-04 W. Captain reported on landing that he had observed through binoculars 11 submarines on the surface about half a mile apart proceeding due west at about 8 knots. None submerged while under observation. Visibility excellent. Planes dispatched to scene reported large numbers of whales and porpoises. Three DD's and a PC dispatched to scene.

1040:	U.S.S. BROOKLYN (CL) sighted a periscope at 0844 in 39-40 N, 72-09 W and a second periscope in 39-44 N, 72-12 W. Her plane searched without results.

1600:	DIONE (CG) reports contact at 35-32 N, 75-16W. U.S.S. SWANSON (DD) dropped 600 lb. charges which brought up a good grade of oil. Fathometer showed highest point of vessel 7 fathoms from bottom. (This is near position of U-85 sunk by ROPER on April 14 at 35-48 N, 75-14 W).

1800:	EDC (Southern Sector) reports survivors of EUGENE V. R. THAYER (U.S. Tanker, 7,138 tons) shelled at 2035, April 8 at 02-20 S, 34-40 W, landed at Miami at 2226 April 21.

1900:	U.S.S. ROPER (DD) picked up 30 survivors from S.S. DESERT LIGHT (Panamanian Cargo) off Hatteras. Survivors being landed at Morehead City. Vessel torpedoed at 1205 April 16 in 35-35 N, 72-48 W. (See our 1345 April 16).

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL #93

APRIL 23, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

2240:	SSS ALLO from S.S. BEACON (U.S. Tanker, 10,388 tons) chased by sub at 27-24 N, 80-23 W.

2300:	S.S. BRADBURN (British cargo, 4,736 tons) sighted sub at 2230 in 39-18 N, 71-24 W.

APRIL 24

0045:	U.S.S. EDISON (DD) reported belief that subs sighted (see our 0919) all nearing operating area along coast.

0100:	S.S. LANCE (British freighter, not listed in Lloyds) reported aground on Isle of Wight Shoals, 25 miles south of Cape Henlopen. Reported by Eagle #56. LANCE trying to work herself off.

0120:	Hatteras Inlet Lifeboat Station reports the Motor Lifeboat #4464 returned after making thorough search for lifeboat with negative results. Lifeboat had been reported by Army bomber. (See our 2000 above).


Summary:

	EUGENE V. R. THAYER (U.S. Tanker 7,128 tons) shelled at 2035 Q April 8.

	REINHOLT on fire but made New York under her own power.

	LANCE aground off Cape Henlopen.

		Submitted,


		G. D. STOUT

- 2 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL NO. 93

APRIL 23, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

2000:	U.S.S. ROWAN (DD) landed at Norfolk about noon 177 survivors of two ships torpedoed between the American coast and Bermuda. 159 from S.S. SAN JACINTO, shelled and sunk at 0632 April 21 in 31.00N. - 70-45 W. ROWAN reported that while picking up these survivors 2 torpedoes were fired at her. 15 persons had been killed by shellfire on the SAN JACINTO. (See our 0745 April 21).

	Also aboard the ROWAN were 18 survivors of S.S. STEELMAKER, torpedoed at 2230 April 19 in 33.02 N. - 70.36 W. There were 47 in the crew. Planes and surface craft are requested to be on the alert to locate a motor lifeboat with sail and containing survivors of STEELMAKER.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #94

APRIL 24, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0808:	SSSS from call letters MOKJ (not listed) "42-46 N; 67-04 W. being followed by suspicious craft that disappeared when plane came over us" and later "Submarine surfaced dead astern, then submerged again at 0757."

0830:	SSS from SS TROPIC STAR (Norwegian Cargo 5088 tons) being "chased" at 0813 in 40-50 N; 68-42 W. Sub fired torpedo but missed. On board are 23 survivors from SS PIPESTONE COUNTY (U.S. Cargo) torpedoed April 21, 300 miles north of Bermuda.

0840:	Army plane dropped 3 DC's on top of periscope sighted at 0758 in 41-20 N; 66-52 W. bearing about 80 miles 110° T. from Cultivator Shoals.

1105:	Army bomber at 0907 saw destroyer drop 4 DC's in 36-22 N; 75-13 W. 200 foot oil slick formed. Nothing further heard on this.

1130:	DIONE (CG) at 0001 reported she concludes sub attacked by herself with SWANSON (DD) and planes at 35-32 N; 75-16 W. about 1600 April 23 was sunk. This position is 23 miles south and 3 miles west of present position of the U-85.

1202:	Army B-25 plane sighted sub on surface about 300 yards from a freighter at 41-40 N; 68-30 W., west of Cultivator Shoals in 80 fathoms. Attacked with two 325 lb. DC's from 50 foot altitude about 10 seconds after sub crash dived and again with two more DC's. Result two large black oil and air patches. Pilot believes one of first DC's hit side of hull. Freighter escaped.

1408:	K-5 (blimp) reported MAD contact 8 miles north of Barnegat and dropped 4 DC's. Results oil and air bubbles. At 1800 a CG Cutter was reported dropping DC's in vicinity.

1900:	Sub sighted by Army bomber at 1830 at 40-18 N; 68-25 W. which dropped 3 DC's. No results observed. Position is 60 miles east of Nantucket Shoals Light.

1930:	CG 539 (73-foot Reserve vessel) while acting as guard ship for NORDIC (Army experimental vessel) stated saw periscope close aboard at 0945, position 40-10 N; 73-53 W. near end of Ambrose Swept Channel, 6 miles off Spring Lake. Stated too close to 85 foot NORDIC to drop DC's. Did not report SSS until in base as no radio aboard.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #94

APRIL 24, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

2245:	U.S.S. CORRY (DD) and U.S.S. BUCHANAN (DD) made a good sound contact at 1530 in 40-32 N; 69-50 W. and released a full barrage. At 1845 same DD's delivered 3 DC's about 5 miles southwest of this position, which is 10 miles west of Nantucket Shoals Light.

0440:	NOB Bermuda reports 23 crew, 2 passengers and captain of SS ROBIN HOOD (U. S. Cargo - 6887) torpedoed and sunk night of April 15, landed by U.S.S. GREER (DD). Remaining 14 presumed lost. The ROBIN HOOD has not been previously reported to us as attacked or sunk.

0445:	Plane reported sub sighted at 2230 near Oregon Inlet in 35-40 N; 75-15 W.

0810:	PT-boat 59 out of Newport attacked sub with two DC's at 0745, 135 T., 16 miles from Brenton Reef Lightship, 41-12 N; 71-09 W. Eagle Boat, CG cutter, 3 PT boats, and planes proceeding position.

	Cominch reported following RDF positions:
	Within 100 miles 36-50 N; 56-30 W. at 0447.
	Within 100 miles 35-30 N; 69-30 W. at 1120.
	Within 200 miles 36-30 N; 70-30 W. at 2117.

	SUMMARY

	Five attacks on enemy subs, with one probably sunk by B-25 plane at 41-40 N; 68-30 W.

	One ship sunk - SS ROBIN HOOD (U. S. Cargo 6887) April 15, not hitherto reported.

		Submitted,


		J. A. HOWELL
		Lieut. (jg), USNR.

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #95

APRIL 25, 1942.

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0215:	Cominch reports a sub sighted 42°-50' N, 63°-29' W, about 125 miles due south of Halifax. An attack was made by a corvette and two Canadian Planes.

0625:	The RAVEN (AM) was attacked unsuccessfully 35°-31' W; 76°-57' W. She is continuing a search of the area following an ineffective depth charge attack. This position is 57 miles 110° from Cape Fear.

0745:	PT-59 sighted a sub 41°-15' N; 71°-07 W. (approximately 20 miles South east of Narragansett Bay) and attacked with two depth charges. The area will be searched by surface craft for 24 hours.

0935:	EDC reports an Army plane sighted a submarine showing her conning tower and part of her deck at 38°-54'N; 74°-48'W. The sub submerged upon being sighted. The Coast Guard upon investigation sighted a barrel in this area (about 18 miles 110° from Cape May).

1046:	Cominch reports sub sighted 40°N; 72°-36'W.

1100:	Com 1 reports the S.S. LENOX (Canadian Freighter - 1150 tons) was torpedoed February 23 at 1355, 100 miles north of Georgetown, British Guiana. Eleven survivors at Portland, Main April 22, by the S.S. ANTE MATKOVICS (Yugoslav freighter - 2710 ton). Survivors state 2 crewmen were lost with the ship and seven were landed at Georgetown, British Guiana. The sub surfaced before the ship sank and was described as having fresh grey paint, "Deutschland" painted on the conning tower, and "Z-309" painted on the bow.

1130:	Plane from Quonset reports that it sank a sub while on a navigational instruction flight north of 40°N; 72°-36'W. Bristol and Dallas (DD's) were dispatched to search the area (67 miles 70° from Barnegat Buoy).

1200:	S.S. TROPIC STAR arrived in Boston with survivors of the S.S. PIPESTONE COUNTY torpedoed April 21.

1230:	PC-461 reports a sub submerged at 34°-46'N; 75°-18'W. The visibility was bad and her speed five knots.

- 1 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #95

APRIL 25, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1430:	Report that weather prevents the Dutch tug Roode Zee and patrol aircraft from searching for the aircraft April 26th.

1630:	PC-461 reports that observation after attack disclosed a large amount of fuel oil, pieces of cork, fresh bread, crackers, and fish on the surface over the attack area (see 1230 above)

1655:	Army plane sighted April 24 at 1020 a suspicious vessel about 250 feet long at 42°-40'N; 66-30 W.

1945:	Blimp K-4 sighted a sub 35°-20'N; 75°-25' W.

2025:	NOB Bermuda reports that rescued survivors identified the 5 boats sighted April 22 at 31°-12'N; 70°-25'W. as from the DERRYHEEN. (See 1331 April 22).

2300:	(See 1130 above) DALLAS (DD) assisted by planes searched general area of 40°-10 N; 72°-36' W, for five hours with negative results.

2410:	SS AMAZON reports being followed by suspicious craft 20 miles northeast of Morant Point Jamaica.


		Submitted


		T. R. FRENCH
		Ensign USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial 96

APRIL 26, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

All Times E.W.T.

April 25

1515 -	ST. LOMAN (anti-sub trawler) reports 2 attacks on moving sub contact distant 19 miles, bearing 188°T from Cape Hatteras Light (34-57N, 75-35W). Large quantities oil and bubbles. At 1640 reports 3rd deliberate attack with DC pattern on firm contact at 1612. Spreading oil patch 3 miles long, 200 yards wide. Position buoyed, standing by. Cominch reported sub sighted in 34-55 N, 75-45 W, at 1515 Apr. 25. (Ships Plot has no wreck charted in this position.)

April 26

0710 -:	Army bomber sighted periscope in 41-54 N, 69-20 W, 28 miles east of Nauset Beach Light, Cape Cod. Kept under continuous air surveillance until 1822.

1000 -	DIONE (CGC) reported operation completed. (our 1130 Apr. 24. Position 35-32 N, 75-16 W). Identification inconclusive. Good sample lubricating oil, poor sample fuel oil. Small decomposed piece of flesh had to be discarded.

1010 -	HOWARD (DMS) reported patrolled assigned area (38-50 N, 72-20W; 11 enemy subs). No positive contact. Sighted many schools blackfish, about 20 feet long.

1235 -	Civilian Air Patrol sighted oil slick and heavy boxes floating in 38-22 N, 74-57 W.

1342 -	Army plane sighted capsized white lifeboat in 38-43 N, 73-05 W. No other debris or life.

1445 -	EDC reports 2 planes dropping bombs 4 or 5 miles off Cape Charles. No target visible.

1540 -	Army plane reports wreckage in increasing oil slick; ship's ladders, bedding, furniture, shattered timber, in 39-37 N, 73-19 W. (37 miles of Barnegat Inlet) Lakehurst sending blimp.

1545 -	59th Observation Group sighted sub which submerged in 39-58 N, 73-55 W.

1550 -	Gov't Hydro reports derelicts. (1) 42-35 N, 69-25 W. (2) 42-34 N, 69-33 W.

1712 -	SOS from S.S. EMPIRE DUNLIN, British (unlisted Lloyds or Record) aground on Valiant Rock in the Race; listing badly, need immediate assistance. Later 29 men taken off, master and 14 men remaining aboard awaiting high water. Vessel hard aground and seriously damaged.

- 1 -

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial

APRIL 26, 1942.

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

All Times E.W.T.

1810 -	EDC reports, "Vessel hit mine 8 miles north of Marquesas Key (35 miles NW of Key West). Sent SOS. Believes to be our mine." Later, same source, "Identified as Navy mine. Boat load of survivors on way in." Com 5 had heard nothing but contacted Key West who promised dispatch.

2300 -	Bermuda reports plane searched 100 by 50 mile lane with 315-135° bearing line and point 29 N. 70 W as center today 26th. No lifeboat sighted.

0025 -	Bermuda reports planes sighted lifeboats 25 miles East of Bermuda. Plane guided SS "BELGIAN AIRMAN" to scene. She picked up and landed at Bermuda 24 survivors of SS MODESTA (Lloyd's: Finnish cargo 3,830. Bermuda states registry British) torpedoed in 35-40 N, 63-10 W, at 0215 Apr. 25. Planes will continue search other possible survivors at dawn.

SUMMARY

	1 enemy torpedoing (SS MODESTA) Apr. 25.
	1 attack on sub (ST. LOMAN) Apr. 25.
	1 stranding, (SS EMPIRE DUNLIN).
	1 vessel hit mine (off Key West).

Cominch reported following RDFs.

	1 within 200 miles of 30-30 N, 66-45 W at 0015.
	1 " 60 " 31-00 N, 68-00 W at 0017.
	1 " 200 " 37-15 N, 62-15 W at 1345.
	1 " 50 " 36-00 N, 60-00 W at 1345.
	1 " 100 " 41-00 N, 71-30 W at 2135.
	1 " 100 " 33-30 N, 71-00 W at 2229.

		Submitted:


		A. S. BIGELOW
		Lieut. (jg) USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL #97

APRIL 27, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

All Times E.W.T.

0915	Pan American plane sighted two oil slicks, one at 39-12 N, 74-02 W, the other at a point 10 miles closer to New York at 0705.

1215	Pan American plane reported sighting a tanker sinking at 35-05 N, 75-04 W. Wreck file shows Army observation plane photographed two masts above water at 35-10 N, 75-10 W. There are four wrecks within a radius of about 12 miles of this position. At 1545 air observation showed nothing new in this area.

1610	S.S. VENEZIA has landed Captain and 13 survivors of S.S. EMPIRE DRUM (British cargo, 7239 tons), torpedoed and sunk at 1800 April 24 in 36-39 N, 70-52 W. Two boats with 27 survivors still missing. Total of 41 in crew. Two missing boats last seen at 0600 April 25 heading NW, red sail on boats.

1635	B-17 sighted periscope at 39-35 N, 74-00 W (about 12 miles SSE Barnegat Light) at 1610.

2330	U.S.S. STURTEVANT (DD) now resting on bottom in danger area with only crow's nest showing. All confidential publications still on board locked in safe. Under present conditions consider salvage dangerous. (See our 1810 April 26)

APR. 28

0640	SSS from PJC (Curacao radio) position 11-47 N, 68-45 W at 0558.




		Submitted


		G. D. STOUT

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL #98

APRIL 28, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0010:	ROPER (DD) proceeding to search for 27 survivors of S.S. EMPIRE DRUM torpedoed April 27). The survivors were in two lifeboats with red sails last reported April 25 heading northwest. 1030 to 2100--One army, one navy plane searched 36-37 N. and T1-72 W., results negative.

0550:	Washington Radio reports ship (unidentified) torpedoed 11-47 N; 68-45 W. Curacao Radio reports S.S.S. at the same position (just off the coast of Venezuela).

0848:	Washington radio reports sub sighted 07-20N; 57-35W.

0930:	ARUNDO Dutch freighter of 5163 tons torpedoed and sunk 40-10'-30" N; 73-44W. This position is about 17 miles east of Sea Girt, New Jersey. LEA (DD) picked up 36 survivors including all officers and will land them at Lewes, Delaware. 7 survivors are missing. 2000--Lifeboat from Shark River Station picked up one body from ARUNDO.

1148:	Civilian Air Patrol sighted the fishing boat RELIANCE (90-100 feet long from Hampton, Virginia) in an oil-slick about 100 feet in diameter at 37-58 N; 75-06 W. (just south of Rehabeth Beach). Three men and a large hose were on deck. The vessel moved when the plane approached and stopped when the plane withdrew.

1205:	Cominch reports sub sighted by a plane 43-00 N; 67-37 W.

1430:	ComFive reports one lifeboat with survivors was sighted by a plane at 32-52 N; 77-16 W. A Coast Guard Cutter left Charleston to investigate. This position is about 127 miles east of Charleston.

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL #96

APRIL 28, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1950:	Coastal Information Section at Key West reports via EDC that a submarine first contacted April 27 by Army planes and trailed to near Jupiter Inlet, Florida, is surfacing surrounded by surface vessels. Nothing further heard on this.

2000:	A lifeboat from Shark River Station picked up one body from the ARUNDO (see 0930 above).

2325:	Mackay Radio reports intercept from Captain Lundberg of S.S. ASTRI to Thor Eckert & Co. "15 men from LAMMOT DUPONT rescued. 2 men missing from raft. Lifeboat with 30 men believed to be about 200 miles southeast by east from Bermuda." Position given is about 30-00 W, 62-00 W. The LAMMOT DUPONT is a 5102 ton U.S. Freighter. No previous information regarding this vessel has been received.

2330:	R-5 reports sighting a sub course 270° True at 37-37 N, 64-25 W. on the surface.

April 29

0042:	Cominch reports enemy transmissions at 2120 April 28 and at 0042 April 29, indicate a probable surface vessel. The latter transmission indicates a westward movement. Not sufficient bearings to indicate position, but approximately 33-00 N, 75° to 78° W.

0230:	Intercept from MOBILOIL, U.S. Tanker of 9925 tons, SSS SOS position 25-35 N, 66-18 W. (about 420 miles north of Puerto Rico). EDC reports torpedoing occurred 2230, April 28, and distress withheld for a time.

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL #98

APRIL 28, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0350:	MOBILOIL radios: "Being shelled, now returning gunfire."

0515:	MOBILOIL radios: "Torpedoed a second time 26-10 N; 66-15 W." (See 0230 and 0350 above.)

Cominch Reported the Following RDF's:

	1 within 200 miles 37-00 N; 65-00 W. at 2047Q.

	1 within 100 miles 40-30 N; 73-00 W. at 2057Q.

	1 within 50 miles 39-45 N; 74-00 W. at 2057Q.

SUMMARY

	A. 1 unidentified ship reported torpedoed at 11-47 N; 68-45 W.

	B. ARUNDO torpedoed and sunk.

	C. LAMMOT DU PONT sunk. Cause not yet established.

	D. MOBILOIL shelled and torpedoed. Results not yet known.

	E. 4 sightings reported; all outside ESF.


		Submitted,


		T. R. FRENCH
		Ensign, USNR

EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

SERIAL #99

APRIL 29, 1942

ENEMY ACTION DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

0830:	Cominch reports sub sighted 14-30N; 61-06W at 1805, April 28.

0830:	HARRY G. SEIDEL (Panamanian tanker, 10354 tons) torpedoed in 10-50N; 62-00W (WNW of Dragon's Head).

0945:	Chief officer and chief engineer of SS AGRA (Swedish cargo, 5090 tons) landed in New York, April 28 by clipper from Bermuda. AGRA was torpedoed and sunk at 1720, April 20, in 34-40N; 69-35W. Six, including master, killed. Vessel was sailing under British instructions and flying no flag. Survivors picked up by SS TERCERO (Norwegian) and landed in Bermuda April 22. British Naval authorities Bermuda and Swedish Consul New York have list of survivors and missing.

1015:	Com U.S. for Aruba report SS ALCOA PARTNER (U.S. cargo, 5513 tons) torpedoed, shelled, and sunk at 0130, April 26, in 13-32N; 67-47W. 25 saved, 10 lost.

	He also reports investigation of reported sinking in 11-47N; 68-45W (see our 0550 April 28). All ships known to be in this area accounted for; no evidence of wreckage after air and surface search.

1045:	ComOne reports that trawler FOAM sighted sub on surface at 1300, April 28, in 42-39N; 69-30W (46 miles east of Cape Ann). Sub submerged on being sighted.

1145:	WOOSLEY (DD) reports several attacks made on good sound contacts in approximate position 40-05N; 72-57W. Close cooperative action impossible due to fog. Results inconclusive - some oil and air bubbles, no wreckage. Search continuing, but fog may have permitted surface escape.

1430:	ROPER (DD) picked up 14 survivors, including chief officer, of EMPIRE DRUM in 37-47N; 71-28W. This is second lifeboat to be picked up of 3 launched from this sinking; one boat with 13 men still missing (see our 1610 April 27). Chief officer reports that sub came alongside his lifeboat and was Italian I-44. Marking had been painted over.

1740:	SS RIO SAN JUAN (Argentine) reports sighting sub at 0420, April 28, in 35-25N; 70-45W. Sub ordered ship to stop; then signaled her to proceed. Intelligence has description of sub.

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1925:	S.S. MOBILOIL torpedoed at 2230 April 28 (see our 0230 April 29) in 25-35N; 66-18W (420 miles north of Puerto Rico) had been routed coastwise and via Yucatan Channel. Reported position of torpedoed is over 700 miles off coastal route.

2115:	S.S. ASHKHABAD (Russian cargo, 5284 tons) torpedoed and sunk in 34-19N, 76-31 W (18 miles south of Cape Lookout). 47 survivors including 4 women (believed to comprise all survivors) picked up by HMT LADY ELSA to be landed at Morehead City at daylight. Navy plane sighted sub and dropped bomb.

2355:	S.S. EMPIRE OPAL (British Cargo, 9700 tons) sighted sub in 12-52N; 60-29W (between Barbados and St. Vincent).

0210:	EDC reports explosions and flashes seen off Port Macon and Savannah, Ga.

0445:	Patrol vessel landing at Morehead City about 0800 has 27 additional survivors from S.S. STEELMAKER (see our 2000 insert April 23.)

Cominch reported the following RDF's:

	1 within 200 miles 38-30N; 71-30W at 1106.
	1 within 30 miles 39-00N; 72-00W at 1915.
	1 within 200 miles 39-00N; 72-30W at 1918.
	1 within 200 miles 41-00N; 71-00W at 1917.
	1 within 50 miles 41-45N; 70-15W at 1917.
	1 within 200 miles 34-30N; 69-00W at 2117.
	1 within 100 miles 34-15N; 75-30W at 2242.
	1 within 100 miles 38-00N; 57-00W at 2317.

SUMMARY

	One ship sunk - ASHKHABAD
	One ship torpedoed, presumably sunk - HARRY G. SRIDE.
	Two ships sunk not previously reported - ARCA (April 20) and ALCOA PARTNER (April 26)
	Two attacks on subs, inconclusive - by WOOLSEY and by plane at scene of AHHKHABAD sinking.

		Submitted,


		GEO. H. DAVIS,
		Lieut. (jg) USNR

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EASTERN SEA FRONTIER

Serial #100

APRIL 30, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

ALL TIMES E.W.T.

1330:	27 additional survivors of S.S. STEELMAKER (U.S. CARGO - 6176 tons) torpedoed April 19 landed at Moorehead City, including Navy gun crew.

1420:	EDC reported sub attacking in vicinity Guantanamo, Cuba at 1222Q at about 21-10N; 75-30W.

1445:	First Bomber Command reported saw what appeared to be periscope wake 3/4 mile away at 39-20N; 72-40W 1105.

1500:	S.S. LOBOS landed 8 survivors including captain of S.S. DERRYHEEN (reported sunk April 22) at Havana. Two boats missing.

1510:	Plane sighted wreckage of lifeboat - no survivors at 40-28N; 73-35W at 1450Q (near S.S. ARUNDO sinking of April 28).

1550:	Three lifeboats filled with survivors sighted at 25-53N; 67-17W at 1400. May be from S.S. MOBILOIL torpedoed at 25-35N; 66-18W on April 29.

1559:	Navy plane bombed a periscope at 1553 at 34-02N; 76-11W. Oil and air bubbles seen rising. Two Army B-18's with radars dispatched to area.

1745:	Army B-18 thought sighted sub periscope in 42-30N; 75-53W. Dropped 4 DC's. Oil came to surface.

1807:	Navy patrol bomber sighted a boatload of survivors 9 miles NE of Oregon Inlet, at 1800 (35-56N; 75-25W). Another boatload was sighted at 1915 at 34-48N; 75-40W with 10 survivors. C.G. taking action.

1950:	Army plane attacked sub in 34-16N; 73-53W. Dropped 1 DC. Sub dived, headed south. Plane then sighted a second sub at 2310 at 34-29N; 74-27W. Sub completely on surface. Had large egg-shaped conning tower. Plane dropped two 325 DC's on first attack. Point of impact 10 to 15 feet from sub on first DC, the second straddling 50 feet

Serial #100

APRIL 30, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

	ahead of the first. On second attack a third DC dropped on apparent location of conning tower. Good moonlight. No wake or swirl observed, except initial disturbance caused by DC.

2125 -	Attacks by submarines were reported by Cominch at 21-15N; 76-05W at 1000 April 20 and at 17-01N; 66-03W at 1750 April 30.

2155 -	Sub sighted at 14 miles SE by E from Monhegan by DIRIGO (fisherman). Sub up for 5 minutes, then submerged.

2210 -	Plane from Quonset dropped DC's on moving oil slick in 40-10N; 69-37W in afternoon.

0035 -	SSS from S.S. SOLON TURMIN (U.S. cargo - 6762 tons) at 25-04N; 80-00W at 2303.

0130 -	DIO Charleston reported plane saw a suspicious stationary ship 10 miles east of Folly Beach (near Charleston) at 2255. On sight of plane, ship produced smoke and headed southwest. Possibility of fake superstructure.

0315 -	Com. U.S. ARUBA stated report of torpedoing in previous dispatch at 11-47N; 68-45W false. Reports 25 of crew S.S. ALCOA PARTNER saved, 10 lost.

0615 -	SSSS from S.S. LA PAZ (British cargo - 6548 tons) torpedoed at 28-15N; 80-20W at 0540.

0620 -	SOS from S.S. WORDEN (nicaraguan - 433 tons) torpedoed 10 miles southeast Cape Canaveral at 0558.

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Serial #100

APRIL 30, 1942

ENEMY ACTION AND DISTRESS DIARY

Cominch reports following RDF's:

One within 100 miles 46-00N; 38-00W at 2135 April 29.

" " 200 " 40-00N; 70-00W at 1111 April 30.

" " 200 " 39-30N; 69-30W at 1129 April 29.

" " 100 " 40-30N; 68-15W at 2030 April 29.

" " 100 " 37-00N; 58-00W at 1022 April 30.

" " 200 " 40-00N; 68-00W.

" " 200 " 38-00N; 62-45W at 1538 April 30.

" " 100 " 38-00N; 61-30W at 1538.

" " 30 " 43-00N; 69-00W at 1659.

" " 100 " 37-15N; 57-30W at 2026.

" " 100 " 37-00N; 71-30W at 2026.


SUMMARY

5 attacks on enemy subs.

2 ships torpedoed.

S.S. LA PAZ (British cargo - 6548 tons).
S.S. WORDEN (Nicaraguan - 433 tons).


	Submitted.


	J. A. HOWELL,
	Lieut. (jg) U.S.N.R.

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