EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	December 27, 1941
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	2100: Captain Comstock, USA advised the Major Moore phoned: -   "Contacted GHQ, Washington re phone installation on NAS Cape May. GHQ has no information on same. Major Moore will continue investigation and advise Lt-Cdr Payne. (Installation a CAA line).     2315: Lieut- Hall, Public Relations (3rd ND) called - said "Associated Press phoned they had received a bulletin that 12 survivors landed today at Hawaii from the SS MANINI. Requested info if we knew of torpedoing of ship. Advised "No information available."       Submitted         R. H. Braue,     Lieut (jg), USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	December 28, 1941
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1950: Telephoned Lt-Cdr Payne (Butterfield 8-2630) re NAS, N.Y. Despatch 282211, who stated not necessary advise Army or do anything tonight.     2100: Received ComTaskFor 4 despatch 282129 re "Tarbell" advised COAC as requested.     2135: Referring entry above under 1950, "War Plans" could not locate NAS Plan 1-41. Not entered on any cards.     2200: NAS Plan 1-41 located in Inshore Patrol Box in vault. Lt-Cdr Parry of Inshore Patrol was anxious to see plan and his Asst. on watch volunteered information as to location. Advised Bomber Command of Location Patrol C.       Submitted         F. W. Osburn,     Lieut-Comdr., USN (Ret.)

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	December 29, 1941
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1845: Reports from Gloucester via Regional Info. Centre, also G2: unknown Mon-0-War, no lights off Cape Anne. (May be Bainbridge which left Boston 1700).     2052: Teletype report from Coast Guard that a pilot reports he saw sub. periscope heading up Ambrose Channel between Buoy #3 and #5. Inshore Patrol, posts alerted. All patrol boats out. No developments. Probable explanation was an Army target with pole.       Submitted.         L. C. Farley,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	December 30, 1941
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1840: 301740        ComTaskU 4.35    -     COAC notified     1845: 301450        CinCus     1845: 301755        OpNav     1915: 302252        NAS N. Y.    0800 Patrol C     1930: Message from Bomber Command re report from Westover Patrol Plane - advised Inshore Patrol to notify C.G. re buoy - DIO re radio interference.     2100: Lt-Cdr Patterson advised he had received telephone call from Comdr. Corwin New London that an Army ordnance boat en route to Fishers' Island from Fort Terry on Plum Island saw a periscope (not morning) at 4:28 at Lat. 41° 11' 30"N Long. 72° 11' 35" W and had to give hard rudder to avoid ramming he told his story to General at Fort London where he was met by Comdr. Corwin and Admiral Edwards who heard his story and then dispatched USS SEMMES 2 CG and 3 AMC to search area.     2105: Telephoned Captain Stapler     2106: Called Sub Base, New London Duty Officer knew nothing except Com Sublant had asked them to stand radio guard on 4155.     1025: Captain Stapler arrived and called Comdr. Corwin who confirmed his report but had nothing more to add.       Recd. message re Abbemarle Advised COAC re Abbemarle.     1130: Captain Stapler left.     1135: Lt-Cdr Stevens (Bo 9-6221) called and said CG reported a vessel cleared Ambrose at 2225 with signal ESW and no one has record of it could help?     1140: Contacted Inshore Patrol Comdr. Pierce who ascertained from HECP that the SS ILLINOIAN pass HECP outward bound with signals EOW. O must have been mistaken for S.     1150: Called Lt-Cdr Stevens gave him notice of EOW.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	December 30, 1941
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	(Continued).
	1220: Comdr. Pierce came and said Captain Sorenson would like air coverage Fishers' Island, Block Island Plum Island and Long Island Sound.     1225: Call Comdr. McDonnell - requested him send out CG JRF to arrive in accordance Captain Sorenson request, at Fishers' Island area at daylight.     0040: Received conf. air mailgram 301501 from Com One gave to Ship's Plot Officer.     0130: Comdr. McDonnell advised Lt-Cdr Burton would patrol Fishers' Island area at daylight.       Various Coms. received movements reports.     0554: Reported CG plane took off.     0900: C G returned from search and reported sighting nothing suspicious. Saw 3 CG and 3 minesweepers, 1 schooner and several steamers.       K-4 reports 2 suspicious trawlers 60 miles offshore - gave report to DIO to investigate.     1030: Relieved by Lt-Cdr. Bassett.       Submitted:         R. G. Payne,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	December 31, 1941
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1030: Relieved Lt-Cdr. Payne.     1230: Received despatch saying ComTaskForce 5 had resumed normal operations at 8:00 A.M. following negative results of search for enemy submarine off Plum Island.     1500: Command phone from NOB Newport re - Dutch plane. No action.     1515: Received OPNav 311720 directing air protection for U.S.S. ALGORA B leaving Hampton Roads for Panama on one January unescorted - speed 15. Repeated OPNav 311720 to Com 5. Also sent dispatch to Com 5 to comply with OPNav 311720, (On 4:24 p.m. with Info OPNav.     2015: Received report from Lakehurst - Communication Office - as submitted by blimp pilot re fishing vessels previously reported. Came by Command phone. Turned over to Intelligence.     2130: Despatch 302000 from Com 5 to OPNav Info NANCF" See opp. 3:15 p.m. above.     2140: Received in Planning (Dist.) 2 (Special delivery air mail, registered) letters from Com 1 addressed to NANCF, one to Com 3. Holding in plans.     2300: Despatch from Com 1 - quoting report from CG re periscope sighted between Cushing and Ram Islands, in Portland Channel. Phoned to Com 1 for further information. Periscope sighted at 2 p.m. same time as contact reported, 30 miles off Portland Waiting call from Com 1.     0030: Phoned Com 1 - talked to DIO (Lt Foley) and Duty officer (Comdr. Bassett) Origin of report of Sub in Portland Channel has given further statement to DIO and maintains his opinion (see dispatch). Duty officer (Com 1) rather questions report. No further action.     0130: Dispatch 010356 re Casco Bay enemy sub procedure.     0230: All reports on U.S. Navy ship movements finished. Bomber Command notified - also by Phila Sector liaser from CAD - Fort Hamilton.     0730: Eight (8) Army planes, two (2) Coast Guard (Salem), and two (2) blimps, took off for patrol between 04100 and 0720.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	December 31, 1941
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1030: Turned over to Lt. Braue.       Submitted:         P. P. Bassett,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 1, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1030: Relieved Lt-Cdr., P.P. Bassett, USNR.     1200: Received message from ComBostDist CG that unidentified ship, no position given, has lost rudder - requires assistance. No record call sign given in dispatch. Called Moran Transportation Co. in attempt identify. Not their ship.       Received additional dispatches, still without identity or position until 4:04 p.m.     1615: Dispatch from Com 1 - ship in distress is Dimitrios Inglessis - posit. Lat. 48-13N and 47-45W. Additional confirming despatches received until 6:04 p.m. OPNav and CinCLant know about this. Captain Stapler directed "No further action"     0930: Turned over to Lt-Cdr., Osburn.       Submitted.         R. H. Braue,     Lieut (jg), USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 2, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1100: Commander NANCF and Chief of Staff were present at Lakehurst N.J. and directed the commissioning of ZN Group I and ZN Squadron 12.     2030: Telephoned Quonset Re 021604 from COAC Halifax re Catalina 2335. Quonset had received same information in despatch 022305.     0100: NAS, N.Y. despatch 030450 received - cancelled patrol.     0900: Two NAS, N.Y. operation orders turned over to Lt.Cdr., Payne.     1000: Turned over to Lt-Cdr., McNamara.       Submitted         F. W. Osburn,     Lieut-Comdr., USN (Ret).

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 3, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1700: Relieved Lt-Cdr., Osburn, USN (Ret).     1730: Lieutenant Schnable, duty officer PT Squadron #1 called from New London and advised that PT 307 would leave New London at 0900 E.S.T. 4 January via Long Island Sound, East River and Kill Von Kull, for Elco Works, Bayonne, N.J., PT will fly ensign and is expected to arrive at destination between 1200 and 1300. Montauk Base has been advised of the movement by New London. Speed of PT is 30-35 knots.     1740: Advised Lt-Cdr., Pierce Inshore Patrol of above movement.     2030: Informed artillery liaison officer of route of PT 307.       Submitted.         C. F. McNamara,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 4, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	0900: 1/4/42 to 0900: 1/5/42:       No incidents of interest other than routine movement dispatches.       Submitted         L. C. Farley,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 5, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1130: Relieved Lt-Cdr. Farley.   Routine dispatches during evening.     0020: Lt. Comdr. Ellis called from Com One, Boston, and reported that at 0314 and 0349 GCT a steady CW signal on 500 kc was heard on the following beamings:         North Tururp 185.7     Cape Elizabeth 191.1     Surfside 191.7     Fourth Cliff 188       He asked if I had any reports from other stations. I said, "No, that I would check".     0025: Called 3ND D.O. Requested him check with NAH and CG.     0037: Reported to Boston we were checking.     0103: Orderly brought messages from CG.     0105: Called Boston and advised Lt. Comdr. Ellis following beamings were obtained: Fire Island, 184; Manasquan, 177; Cape May, 177; Virginia Beach, 177; Cape Hatteras, 175; St. Petersburg, Fla., 140.       No other incidents.     1000: Relieved by Lt. Comdr. Bassett.       Submitted         R. G. PAYNE     Lt. Comdr., USNR.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 6, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1000: Relieved Lt.-Cdr. Payne.     1800: Report from Fort Hamilton via Fort Dix Army plane sighted 2 DDs, 2SSs and 2 unidentified ships 50 miles SE of Cape May. Pilot made another flight and reported them as 4 trawlers and 2 periscopes. Neither Norfolk nor Philadelphia had anything in that area. No further word - probably fishermen.     2000: Stopped investigation of above.     2330: Routine despatches - plotting - ets.     1050: Relieved by Lt. Braue.       Submitted         P. P. Bassett,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 6, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1200: Army support command observation plane reported seeing large black submarine, long conning tower, gun forward on surface moving slowly NE. Submerged on seeing plane, Position Lat. 40-55N Long. 70-48W. Cinclant notified - 2 CG planes from here - 1 CG plane from Com 1, - 4 planes plus 3 DDs from Cinclant.     1200: Relieved by Lt.-Cdr., Osburn.       Submitted         R. H. Braue,     Lieut(jg), USNR.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 8, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1500-1600: Held conference Chief of Staff's Office, reference movement of Jan. 9, 1942. Present - Rear Admiral Alexander Sharp, Captain Stapler, Chief of Staff of Commodore of Movement, Officers from Lakehurst, Members Staff NANCF, etc.       No other incidents of interest other than routine movement despatches.     0900: Relieved by Lt-Cdr., McNamara.       Submitted         F. W. Osburn,     Lieut-Comdr., USN(Ret).

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 9, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	0909: Relieved Lt-Cdr., Osburn.     092230: Received operation order #2100, serial #1 by officer messenger from NAS, New York; turned over to Lt-Cdr. Payne 100900.       Submitted         C. F. McNamara,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 10, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	100930: Relieved Lt-Cdr., McNamara.     101926: Received from Opnav for TaskFor 15. Notified Admiral Sharp and Captain Stapler of same but that there was nothing to do until morning. The M.S. Continent, Br., about 400 tons was apparently sunk in collision four or five miles outside of Ambrose, Sta. was bound for Bermuda.       There was some SOS and one SSS, well to the eastward of Halifax.       Relieved by Lt.Cdr., Payne.       Submitted         L. C. Farley,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 11, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1045: Relieved Lt.Cdr., Farley.     1915: Telephoned Com 1 (Comdr. Major) re SOS from BCMB advised identity "Empire Franklin" Com 1 informing Opnav.     1945: Called Captain Stapler and advised him SSS SS Cyclops torpedoed.       No further reports except routine movement reports.       Relieved by Lt.Cdr., Bassett.       Submitted         R. G. Payne,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 12, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	2200: Dispatch from CinC re enemy subs; called Chief of Staff. On his arrival in office, he called the Comdr. NANCF, Admiral Stark, Captain Jensen and conference lasted until 0200.     0200: Sent informative to district and NOB Newport.     0300: Routine Dispatches.     1100: Turned over to Lt. Braue.       Submitted         P. P. Bassett,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 13, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1100: Relieved Lt-Cdr., Bassett, USNR.     2130: Telephoned Captain Stapler, Lt-Cdr. Osburn re Merchant shipping to be kept close inshore and preferably thru C.C.C. Telephoned D.O. at P.D. office re same. He will handle for Com 3. Forwarded info to Com 1, 3, 4, 5, NOB Newport.     2135: Lt.Cdr., Farley phoned. Advised him situation calm.     2200: Lt. Cordner ZNP Ron 12 phoned re sortie tomorrow. Advised him re unit boats friendly in sanctuaries tomorrow.     0012: Cdr. Ellis, D. O. at Com 1 phoned to report receipt of advice from Little Creek Va., (R/T station) interception of transmission from CGC155 to NCU (All or any CG) reporting on 2670 Kc "Picked up submarine on submarine listening device South of Hussey Sound Entrance. Closed Boston, Portland, Portsmouth. Then began to receive series of reports along coast on same subject.     0045: Phoned Captain Stapler Advised of situation Com 1 has closed Portland and Boston Also notified NOB, Newport.     0140: Com 1 (Comdr. Ellis) advised Army Minefield Portland placed on "Set 1" (register but not explode).     0210: Duty officer NOB Newport phoned. They are being kept advised on Sub situation at Hussey Sound Entrance.     1315: Turned over to Lt-Cdr., Osburn, USN (Ret).       Submitted         R. H. Braue,     Lieut(jg), USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 14, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1630-1730: Conference in Chief of Staff's office reference AT-1D convoy sailing Jan. 15. Present escort commander, commodore and Vice commodore of convoy, Comdr. Inshore Patrol, officers from Lakehurst and members Staff NANCF.     1800: Received information that S.S. Norness (Panamanian Tanker) had been sunk by three torpedoes from submarine at 0130 Jan. 14 - Lat 40-28N Long 70-50W.     2300: Received telephone message from Boston 8 survivors landed at New Bedford (ex Norness).     0020: Telephone message from Admiral Kalbfus/Newport to Admiral Andrews - Norness Torpedoed and sunk 0130 EST Jan. 14 - Lat 40-26-30N Long. 70-54-30 W. Three torpedoes - close range. Six officers and 24 men rescued and landed at Newport in Ellyson and Argo at 2130. Captain and eight men brought to New Bedford in fishing boat Malvina and Being brought to Newport in Naval automobiles. only one person unaccounted for. and only one seriously injured. Bow vessel out of water which is menace to Navigation.     0645: Arranged to have Floyd Bennett Field send two sea planes to patrol area 40° N to shore and between 72° W and 73° W as information center reported several unidentified vessels in this area.     0730: Two planes left Floyd Bennett Field to patrol above mentioned area (2hr. patrol).     0830: Support command - observation plane - reported ship awash Lat. 40°32'N Long. 72°23'W (61 miles from Ambrose Lt. - 96°       Submitted         F. W. Osburn,     Lieut-Comdr., USN (Ret)

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 15, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1030: Relieved Lt.Cdr., Osburn.     1045: Ship reported awash at 0830, 61 miles from Ambrose Light, 096° true, is torpedoed British tanker Coimbra.     2045: Received following message by telephone from Ensign Taylor at information center: "Following from Eastern Air Commander, Halifax. Please pass to all concerned, weather permitting. Three Catalina air craft will carry out sweep from Cape Sable to a point twenty miles from Cape Cod. Start of flight about daybreak January 16.     2100: First Air Support Command reported one of their plane sighted five destroyers headed west into Nantucket Sound in position 40°38'N and 69°50'W     2200: Lakehurst advised by telephone that Z3 had made a positive contact along convoy route. Destroyers attacked with unknown results.     2335: At 1108 EST New London Section Base intercepted message from U.S. Tanker W. C. Yeager to A.T. Alleghney reporting a plane down at 37°29'N 74°55'W. Checked Bomber Command, Chesapeake Sector. Langley Field and Naval Air Station Norfolk. Requested Captain T.S. McCloy U.S.N. duty officer at Norfolk to refer matter to Coast Guard for action.     0930: Relieved by Lt.Cdr. Farley.       Submitted         C. F. McNamara,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 16, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1000: Relieved Lt.Comdr., McNamara.     1000-2100: Numerous contacts with submarines by Army planes, Navy planes and ZNPs. Bombs dropped by an Army plane and by the K-G. Results unknown. For particulars see despatches and Air Log (Mr. Payne).     2030: 4 white rocket flares reported - dropped by Army bombers.     0000: Jan. 17, info. of movement out of Hypo during 17 Jan. from 0800 to 1500 rec'd with request for Air coverage. Directed Com five to furnish coverage for sortie. Phoned Payne, No other action taken.     0020: Three SOS and SSS from vicinity West Indies rec'd (one just north of Bermuda. Otherwise a quiet night.       Submitted         L. C. Farley,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 18, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1030: Took over from Comd Payne - Routine.     1800: Night watches established.     0150: Santa Elisa at mouth of channel N.Y.     0400: S.S. Malay being shelled off Marble Shoals, submarine.   Received report "all clear."     0600: S.S.Malay again shelled. Arranged with Army and Navy Air Sections for plane etc. also 5th Naval Dist.   Malay hit by torpedo - reports sinking. Norwegian tanker near.   Visibility poor.     0815: Submarine submerged - according to report of Navy plane which sighted it.     0900: S.S. Malay may make port. During night survivors from San Jose and armed guard (Except Ens. Rich in command) landed in Norfolk.       Submitted         P. P. Bassett,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 19, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	0900: Relieved Lt.-Comdr., Bassett.     2140: Report from R.I.C. on anti-aircraft firing from Fort Hancock, Memo attached.       Ensign Dunican, Navy Relief Officer Naval Information Center advised that "weather permitting, there will be anti-aircraft firing at Fort Hancock tomorrow, January 20th, 15,000 foot ceiling, 12,000 yard range. Limits 64.9 degrees to port 159.3 to starboard (azimuths equal to true bearings). Firing will begin at 0900 to 1200; recommences at 1330 and ends at 1630. Floyd Bennett Field advised by R.I.C."     2145: Telephoned Lieutenant Gantz, Duty Officer of Squadron 12 Naval Air Station, Lakehurst, and advised regarding above.     2200: Verbally advised Lieutenant Kingsley, First Bomber Command, of above.     1145: Turned over to Lt.Comdr., Osburn, USN(Ret).       Submitted         R. H. Braue,     Lieut(jg), USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 20, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1600-1730: Conference held in Chief of Staff's office with Commodore and escort Commander of B.T. 200 (Convoy).     1745: Received telephone message from Washington (Capt. Metcalf) to hold up sailing BT 200 for 24 hours. All hands notified through P'D' office.     2200: Sent Despatch to Ellyson (210300) To proceed New York (For duty connection Escort G.W.)     2230: Received OpNav despatch 202358 concerning delay sailing BT200.     0511: Received Despatch from Com 5 unknown STR sighted Submarine 15 mi. from Bodie Light bearing 237°.       Submitted         F. W. Osburn,     Lieut-Comdr., USN (Ret)

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 21, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1930: Admiral Andrews called and inquired if there was any news of lost plane. Advised in the negative. He wanted the incident reported to BuNav. Washington at once if it had not already been done. Ensign Cunard N.A.S. stated a report had been made this afternoon.     2121: Message received that M.V. North Gaspe had been torpedoed in 46-38N and 52W about ten miles south of Cape Rose. Ship is of Canadian Registry. Chartered by the U.S. Army and has on board an army gun crew and communication unit, commanded by a second lieutenant.     2247: North Gaspe still afloat and will try to make port.     2130: Duty Officer Newport (Porter) called. Asked if we had any knowledge of a captured submarine being escorted to New London or Newport. Stated he had been called by the Mayor of Newport who had received such a story from International News Service. Advised we had no knowledge of a capture.     2305: Third District duty officer relayed following message from Police Headquarters: "Notify all launches, New York Harbor Police, particularly in upper bay to be on lookout for a sneak attack by small submarines." Checked Coast Guard duty officer who stated report originally came from Navy and after discussing the matter with Captain Bayles USCG he was ordered to give the warning to the New York Police. He states that he emphasized the routine nature of the report and stressed that attack was not imminent. It later developed that Inshore Patrol had, about 1900, sent a message to several vessels of their command advising that they be on the alert as it had been noted in the past large submarines had carried small submarines and launched them in the vicinity of their targets. In addition to being sent to their ships the message was also telephoned to the Coast Guard. Informed Duty Officer, 3rd District of the origin. Answered queries from Captain McFall of N.Y.P.C. suggested to duty officer that he contact police and explain the situation; also Public Relations officer on duty to ward off adverse publicity.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 21, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	(Continued)       2345: District Duty Officer informed me that Colonel Peasall, 1st Army, Governors Island called with following; Four women sighted a submarine off Daytona Beach, Fla. Reported same to C.A.A. who investigated the report and satisfied of its authenticity notified 4th Army Corps at Jacksonville. Later informed Governors Island. Called SNCF on Command line and was advised by duty officer that they already had a report and investigation was underway.       Submitted         C. F. McNamara,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 22, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	0930: Relieved Lt-Cdr., McNamara.     1015: ZNP's made contact with two submarines in Lat. 39°-20 Long 74-04. Another contact made about 1115 in Lat. 39°-20N Long 74-04W. In both cases bombs were dropped by ZNP's and Army bombers. Two destroyers Landsdale and Ingraham left at 1245 for the area.     1619: K's and plane from Floyd Bennett sighted bubbles and dropped bombs. Reported area boiling. Destroyers had arrived. From this time to 1630 several attacks were made by ZNP's and DD's. Oil, air bubbles, wreckage, and two life rings were brought up. Fliers position was within 5 miles of the sight of collision of the Santa Elisa and San Jose. Sent despatch to DD's to try and get wreckage, life rings, and oil samples. Sent despatch to Cominch et al.     2130: Received despatch from Landsdale confirming reports of ZNP's as regards wreckage, oil, etc as a result of three attacks by DD's. They said they were remaining in area.       Remainder of night quiet and uneventful. BT200 started moving 0800.       Submitted         L. C. Farley     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 23, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1200: Relieved Lt.-Cdr., Farley                       Submitted         R. G. Payne,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR.

 

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 24, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	2214: Tanker - Point Breeze - American, sent SSS from position off Cape Romaine. Later "proceeded" according to dispatch.     2311: Freighter SS Mae, American, sent SSS Lat. 34-06N Long 75-44W. She later proceeded.       Above two entries indicate 2 subs. distance between ships - 150 mi.     0238: SS Mount Kitheron Torpedoes off St. Johns. - Greek freighter No word as to condition of ship.       Routine remainder of night.       H.M.S. Ramsey probably returning to Boston.   Raven reported verbally to NANCF for temporary duty.       Submitted         P. P. Bassett,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 25, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1000: Relieved Lt-Comdr., Bassett.     1015: S.S. Varanger reported off Atlantic City. Bow out of water K3 to investigate and report. Position of ship 39-10, 73-45.     1110: Received from Captain Hall - 4th ND - "59th Obs. Gr. Reports 2 CG boats observed towing life boats" (vicinity SS Varanger).     1305: S. S. Pan New York reports Raider. 3005N 8107W Course 220 1730 GCT.     1342: Above report annulled.     0259: Report by D.O. 4th ND of 2 targets NE Bethany Beach, Del. on surface. Disappeared. C.G. Bethany sent to investigate.     0415: CG reports no traces found of above subject.     0730: Captain of Warbler telephoned by Ship to Shore Radiotelephone they were returning to N.Y. because of weather. Asked me advise CG at Cape May and Atlantic City not to send boats to Warbler.   Notified CG and Meritt Chapman Scott of above.     0825: 1st ND advised re establishment of Army bombing and machine gun area. See Com 1 242358, Cinclant 260445, Cominch 252200, ABIR 260749.     1300: Turned over to Lt.Cdr., Osburn.       Submitted         R. H. BRAUE,     Lieut (jg), USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 26, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	0900-1045: Conference at PD's office attended by Chief of Staff Reference escort for large important British vessel, N.Y. to Boston. Vessel sailed late in day.     0530: Lakehurst advised flight of 2 lighter-than-air craft for escort duty "Wyoming" Postponed account icing conditions.     0700: Boston advised by command telephone important vessel arrived off harbor entrance 0603.       Submitted         F. W. Osburn,     Lt.Cdr., USN (Ret)

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 27, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1000: Relieved Lt.Comdr., Osburn.     2320: Asst. duty officer, 4th district advised seventeen survivors of Francis W. Powell had been landed at Lewes Delaware by the S.S. Fairbanks. Some of these men said they believed other survivors remained on the Powell, provided she was still afloat. Three survivors had been picked up by the Fairbanks soon after the torpedoing which occurred at 0230. In view of the fact that Dione, Woodbury, Nike and Onyx had also been ordered to the scene it appeared doubtful that any survivors had been overlooked. Furthermore the Seiota had been ordered there by Com 5 at 1920 GCT to assist in rescuing survivors and to tow ship to nearest port. While none of these ships had reported it was believed that adequate provision had been made for the personnel.     2330: Arranged with duty officer (Bort) 5th District for air coverage for Sapedo as requested in 272730 by ComTrainLant. Despatch forwarded to Osprey for surface escort.     0300: Ensign Torey, Info Center reported receiving following from Halifax: F.O.N.F. from Cinc U.S. Force, repeated by C.T.F.4, time of origin 271445 G.M.T., DF Bearing indicates German unit, probably surface ships approximate position 48N 4030'W at 270906 G.M.T.   Another Message: CTF4 to F.O.N.F. request you advise RCAF and U.S. Army despatch 271445. Hunting group light cruiser, 4 destroyers proceeding from Argentia, Origin 272145. Not Received in Halifax until 0332 Atlantic S.T. Controller, Halifax later reported that surface craft almost certainly German U-boat. Cruiser and destroyers are U.S. craft.     0700: Duty officer Inshore Patrol Boston advised that at 0637 Flight two took off from Squantin for Mt. Desert (2 planes)     0700: One flying boat out of Salem, 659 Patrol X Ray.     0800: Eagle 48 in New London 1700 Jan. 27, Unload stores at Base. Eagle 48 left New London 5:30 A.M. for Newport.       Submitted         C. F. McNamara,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 28, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1130: Relieved Lt.-Comdr., McNamara.       Br. S.S. Corpral 11.32 E.S.T. Lat. 35°-33N Long 58°-53W chased by submarine. First reported 0917.   (U.S.) S.S. Olney 0622 E.S.T. abeam Winter Quarter Gas Buoy chased by sub.       E.S.T. 0935 - Oil slick 1 1/2 miles wide, 20 miles long seen by plane 23 miles bearing 186° from Montauk - Wind from N.N.E.; end of slick about 40 miles from Montauk.       At 1000 E.S.T. submarine sighted at 27°46'N 96°48'W on surface later submerged. (off Corpus Christi). Report from C.G. via Com eight.     1410: (Time info received). S.S. Coamo picked up 71 survivors of Lady Hawkins sunk on Jan. 19, approx. position 35°N 74°W. (Our estimate from calculated position of the Coamo).     2400: From State Police, Information Centre and other sources received info of Flares over Lake Ontario about five miles off Pulaski, N.Y. Info. Centre got in touch with Halifax to see if any of their planes were missing, also army, etc. At 2300 Cape May reported 2 red rockets offshore. Remainder of night quiet. Relieved by Lt.-Comdr., Payne.       Submitted         L. C. Farley,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 29, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1000: Suspicious vessel, Anita Sveriige, reported by plane of 59th Observation (Fort Dix) Position 48 miles bearing 43° from Barnegat - Speed less than seven knots, course due North. Swedish flag, gray hull and white superstructure.     1030: Survivors from M.V. Diala sunk at 44°05'N and 42°02W some days ago, arrive New York on S.S. Telesfora de Laringa a British ship. This appears to be the same sinking as reported to us on Jan. 26th as the Dealgalla.     1452: Report received that army bomber from Langley saw periscope, bombed it and later observed oil on the surface. Location 36°15'N 74°40'W. 2 PBYs dispatched from Norfolk.       Army suspicious concerning Anita Serixige apparently unwarranted now identified as the "Anita" Swedish inbound narrows 1224 EST.       About 1730 Direx showed a target 12 miles due South of Southhampton, N.Y. - later reports showed Direx might be out of order.       At 1736 EST S.S. Atlantic Trader reported suspect showing navigation lights overtaking her fast at 41-30N, 66-45W on course 170° T, her speed 9 knots. Immediately thereafter she reported the ship doused lights. Weather rough.       Naval Intelligence reported to us at 1830 EST that the Princess Maria Pia (Belgian) had seen a torpedoed tanker on Jan. 18, 1630 GMT 420 miles, bearing 108 from Cape Race. There were 8 men, no officers aboard, who refused to leave as they appeared to believe ship alright, although foremast underwater. Could not ascertain name of tanker.     1841: Audacious in 42-07N, 70-28W reported herself badly listing and in need of assistance. Coast Guard sent Dix and Locust who were later reported alongside.     1858: A commercial radio station at Port Arthur reported a submarine seen at 29-49N, 89-12W, warning to all merchant ships.     2015: S.S Gulf Star (Tanker) sent SSS from 37-50N, 75W, course 022° T, speed 10 knots, off Ocean City, Md.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 29, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	(Continued)       2051: S.S. Paco (Tanker) sent SSS from 12 miles SW of Diamond Shoals.     2156: S.S. Bellingham 30 miles, 100° T from Barnegat Light reported being followed by a submarine; changed course to 332° T for Ambrose and reported still being followed by a "low light".     2315: U.S. Chaffinch (AM) stood out on course 155° T to meet Bellingham of Ambrose at 2245 2 OD2U's had gone out to the Bellingham.       Submitted         R. G. Payne,     Lieut-Comdr., USNR

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 30, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	0706: Pan American Clipper sighted periscope 11 miles East Five Fathom Light.     0705: 65th Army Obs. Plane sighted lifeboat (no occupants) Lat 36°18N Long. 75°-18W.     1115: S.S. Yankee Arrow (Tanker) transmitted SSS in 39-19N, 74-00W Being chased by submarine. At 1630 GMT, Pos. 39°22'N 74-00W Course 360 T, speed 9 knots reported submarine disappearing 6 miles astern. By dispatch 291955, Canadian corvette sighted lifeboat from Belize with 4 dead bodies in approximately 47-20N, 52-15W on Jan. 24.     1105: S.S. Rochester (Tanker) torpedoed at 37°10'N 73°58'W Abandoning ship 1117. (Tanker, U.S. 6,800-tons) Coast Guard reported bearings showed position to be 37-02N, 74-06W. Report received from F.C.C.; Samuel O. Brown, Tanker, radioed at 1205 EST that another tanker is sinking 36°55'N, 73°40'W. Coast Guard subsequently stated sinking tanker to be "S.S. Parker" - This ship does not appear in Lloyd's - No definite confirmation of name ever received.     1230: Transmitted SSS from S.S. Malantic (Cargo 3,800-tons) in 38-26N, 74-34W - From F.C.C. and by dispatch. Report received from Malantic at 1309 EST annulling the alert.     1224: Suspicious oil slick with oil bubbles rising to surface reported 39°08N 74°04W.     1254: Muddy wake now visible with oil. Course irregularly Northward.     1350: In 31-37N, 80-37W, SSS from W. L. Steed.     1630: S.S. Mercury Sun sighted submarine on surface 5 miles north of 31°11'N, 80°49'W.     1651: S.S. Hagood reports SS at same position as "Mercury Sun" above, also approximately same as "W.L. Steed" at 1350 EST.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 30, 1942
	(Continued)
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1700: S.S. Mercury Sun called off alert.     1708: Coast Guard, Elizabeth City, Reported SS sighted and immediately submerged at 36°47N 75°00W.     1840: SS sighted by S.S. owen in Lat. 40°45'N, 69°46'W. True course of submarine 294°, speed 8, No attack.     1924: S.S. Alpha (Tanker) sighted SS at 36°58'N, 74°05'W - No attack     1935: C.G. officer Manasguan Inlet sighted 2 SS on surface 1 1/2 -2 miles due East of his station.     1940: S.S. Rhode Island sighted 2 submarines 2 miles South of Wimble Shoals. Position approximately 35°32'N, 75°19'W - No attack.     2000: S.S. Halsey (Tanker) sighted submarine 10 miles S.E. of Curituck Lt. Position approximately 36°16'N, 75°40'W.     2140: S.S. Frederichsen sighted submarine in Lat. 33°00'N, 78°10'W.     2230: S.S. Frederichsen reported eluding submarine - No position given. SSS was transmitted.     2030-2100:: U.S.S. Icarus (C.G. cutter) and U.S. Active (C.G. cutter) left for area near Manasguan Inslet - Will remain during night and will probably be there in morning.     0000: Naval aeroplane from Quonset reported large oil slick and bow of ship protruding above water at Lat. 40°37'N, 70°45'W.     0112: S.S. Alpha (Tanker) sent her second SSS of evening. THis came from Lat. 36°00'N, 74°10'W. No report of attack in either sighting.     0230: S.S. Sinclair Superflame (U.S. Tanker - new probably 14,000-tons) sent SSS from Lat. 36°31'N, 74°30'W.     0315: S.S. Socony-Vacuum (U.S. tanker) sent SSS from 37°39'N, 75°06'W - Report stated "Socony-Vacuum being followed by suspicious vessel - maybe submarine - standby.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 30, 1942
	(continued)
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	0630: Army Observation Post at Truro on Cape Cod sighted submarine heading south. Message received as of this hour. No position.     0643 EST: SS Niobe (Panamanian) sighted submarine 16 miles off Seagirt, New Jersey, submarine bearing 130° true.     0720 EST: SS William C McTarnahan sighted submarine 18 miles S.W. of Diamond Shoals - submarine coming toward vessel.     0750 EST: SS Louisiana sighted submarine 34-47N; 75-36W. Message received at 0750 EST.     0800 EST: SS Chester O. Swaine sighted submarine 32-25N; 79-25W. "Swaine" is tanker headed for Wilmington, N.C.     1034 EST: SS Gulfwing sent SSS from 37-13N; 75-16W. "Gulfwing" may be (definitely not, as rumored, the ) ""SS Aztec". SS Devshir sent SSS from same time and same place.       At 2050 Jan. 30 report from C.B. Sector Ship afire 35-35N; 75-15W. Thought to be the Rhode Island.       SS Skane (Swedish) saw periscope 20 yards to port 0700 Jan. 30 at 40-45N; 69-46W the same place the Boren saw one at 1840 Jan. 30.     1358 EST: Icarus off Manasquan reports excellent sonic contact 0702, lost contact 0745, another contact 0750. 30 minutes later dropped 3 depth charges. No evidence except sound indication stationary object, that point released 2 more depth charges but no oil or other evidence of a hit. Still searching.       At 1727 EST report received CGWV SSS 44-28N; 68-27W 2151 GMT.

 

	EASTERN SEA FRONTIER
	January 31, 1942
	ENEMY ACTION DIARY
	1830: Various contacts as listed previously     1720: North Carolina, Vincennes, Landsdale, and Huges standing in. Huges and Landsdale passed out at 1800. Vincennes in Narrows 1749; DD426 1756; DD426 and 428 out Narrows 1817.     2010: SS Hahira, Tanker, SSS at position 40 miles N.E. Cape Henry.     2035: Tacoma Star torpedoed 37-33N; 69-21W. Roe sent by Com. 5 to rescue survivors.     2152: Pan Amoco attacked by submarine 34-00N; 75-00W.       February 1, 1942     0103: Panamoco reports escape from sub.     0847: Report from 65th Observation - Army submarine seen submerging 36-20N; 75-30W.       Submitted         L. C. Farley