AK-53 U.S.S. LIBRA
War Diary and Action Reports November 1942,
WAR DIARY
U.S.S. LIBRA (AK53)
MONTH OF N0VEMBER 1942.
Assigned to:
U.S. PACIFIC FLEET SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE AMPHIBIOUS FORCE
TRANSPORT DIVISION TEN.
November 1, 1942: At anchor in berth A-4, Segund Channel, Espiritu Santo
Island.
Awaiting orders and assignment to Task Organization.
0630- Underway to fuel from SS FLAGSHIP SINCO and at
1330- Returned to anchorage berth A-4.
Nov.2 - 7, 1942: At anchor Segund Channel, berth A-4. Awaiting orders.
November 8, 1942: At anchor berth A-4, Segund Channel.
1400- Received CTF 62 despatch 070430/November, assigning
LIBRA to Task Group 62.4-CTG 62.4 in ATLANTA.
Received CTF 62 operation plan A23-42 and Task Force
67 despatch 070917 and 070952/Nov.
November 9, 1942: At anchor berth A-4, Segund Channel.
0930- Underway on signal from CTG 62.4 standing to sea
enroute Guadalcanal, Solomons. Standard speed 15
knots.
Formed column astern ATLANTA (OTC), ZEILIN, with
BETELGEUSE in column astern.
4 DD in A/S screen.
1104- Set course 350 . Speed 15.5 knots.
1200 Position - Lat. 15 -19’ S.
Long. 167 -20’ E.
1330- Changed course to 316 True.
November 10, 1942: Underway as before enroute Guadalcanal in company
Task Group 62.4 (ATLANTA,OTC.) on course 316 True,
speed 15.5 knots.
1011- Sound contact by screen.
Emergency maneuvers.
1046- Resumed course and speed.
1200 Position - Lat. 11 -07’ S.
Long. 163 -12’ E.
1207- Changed course to 311 True.
1412- Sighted San Cristobal I., bearing 253 True.
1500- Changed speed to 14 knots.
1707- Changed speed to 13 knots.
1810- Changed speed to 12 knots.
1830- Changed course to 296 True.
November 11, 1942: Underway as before in company Task Group 62.4 enroute
Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands.
Course 296 True. Speed 12 knots.
0334- Sighted Nuga I. light bearing 289 .
0345- Changed course to 259 True entering Sealark Channel on
various courses and approaching anchorage off Lunga
Point.
0545- Anchored one mile north of Tenaru River, commenced
discharging cargo from all holds.
0917- Received air attack warning over radio net.
0919- Underway, formed column on course 000 True, astern
ATLANTA, ZEILIN, BETELGEUSE with destroyer screen.
0925- Radical simultaneous course changes on flag signal
from CTU 62.4.
0935- Observed formation of 9 dive bombers approaching over
Guadalcanal.
0941- Commenced firing on two low level dive bombers
approaching on port quarter. 0943- Near miss, 100 lb
bomb, 100 feet off port quarter.
09431/2 Near miss, 100 lb bomb, 20 feet to port of No.2 hold.
Radio antennae and fore truck shot down by strafing
attack.
Some distortion and slight leakage frames 40-46 port
side above turn of the bilge.
0945- Ceased firing. One dive bomber shot down and crashed
off port bow.
1000- ZEILIN apparently in trouble.
1015- All clear. Returned and at
1029- Anchored. Resumed discharge of cargo.
1106- Air raid warning . 27 bombers with fighter escort
approaching from southward over Guadalcanal.
Underway. Joined formation as before on course 000 .
Speed 15 knots.
1125- Observed enemy bombers formation over Henderson
Airfield, very high. Bombs dropped on airfield.
1127- Fired 3"/50 cal. ranging shots - all short. No
approach on ships by bombers.
1135- Ceased firing. Maneuvering to return to anchorage.
1206- Anchored. Resumed discharge of cargo.
1800- Underway in company Task Group, standing to eastward
through Sealark Channel.
2000- Changed course to 090 True.
2045- ATLANTA and destroyer screen left formation to join
Task Force 67. BETELGEUSE (OTC) and LIBRA on north
and south courses maneuvering in Indispensable
Straight. No escort.
Note: See LIBRA letter AK53/A9-8/(020) of November 17,1942
and enclosures attached, concerning details of actions
of this date.
November 12, 1942: Underway in Indispensable Straight on alternate north
and south courses in company BETELGEUSE. Speed 15
knots.
0303- Course 250 True, speed 12 knots approaching Lungo
Channel, and passage thereof.
0614- Anchored to east of Lunga Point. Discharging cargo.
Four transports of Task Force 67 anchored off Kukum.
Support and escort TF 67 disposed to northward.
0812- HOVEY alongside for fuel.
1000- CTF 67 despatch 112237/November assigns BETELGEUSE and
LIBRA to Transport Divisions, Task Force 67. (Task
Group 67.1).
1019- HOVEY clear of side.
1100- Observed bombardment of enemy shore positions to
westward by units of screen and support group.
1323- Radio warning of approach of enemy torpedo plane
squadron.
1327- Underway on various courses to join Transport Division
2, as third ship in column. Course 340 speed 14 knots.
Various radical course changes on flag hoist signal
from CTF 67 in McCAWLEY.
1411- Sighted large formation of enemy torpedo planes close
to water approaching from northeast.
1412- Commenced firing.
1425- Ceased firing. About 8 enemy planes shot down by ships
- burning on water. None escaped.
Various courses returning to anchorage.
1521- Anchored. Discharging cargo.
1700- Received CTF 67 despatch 120529/November to get
underway and stand out about 1800 LIBRA 3 ship in
TransDiv 2.
1830- Underway.
1900- In position in formation in column, with screen ahead.
Speed 14 knots.
Various courses standing to eastward through Lengo
Channel.
2027- Course 105 True.
2138- Course 135 True.
2340- Course 1600 True.
Note: See LIBRA letter AK53/A9-8/(020) of November 17,1942
and enclosures attached, concerning details of actions
of this date.
November 13, 1942: Underway in company Task Group 67.1 and destroyer
escort enroute Segund Channel on course 160 True,
speed 14 knots.
LIBRA 3rd ship in Division 2, in column formation.
0151- Changed course to 151 True.
0335- Changed course to 125 True.
0517- Changed course to 145 True.
0520- Formed line of division guides.
1200 Position - Lat. 12 -02’ S.
Long. 162 -23’ E.
1700- Changed course and axis to 110 True.
November 14, 1942: Underway in company Task Group 67.1 plus destroyer
escort enroute Segund Channel on course 110 True,
speed 14 knots.
LIBRA 3rd ship in Division Two in formation line of
division guides.
0100- Changed course and axis to 120 True.
0800- Changed course to 110 . Changed speed to 13 knots.
1030- Changed course to 050 True.
1122- Changed course to 090 True.
1200 Position - Lat. 14 -21’ S.
Long. 166 -42’ E.
1303- Changed course to 120 True.
1600- Changed course to 090 True.
2145- Formed column of divisions.
2214- Changed course to 170 True.
2220- Changed course to 260 True.
2230- Formed line of division guides.
2400- Changed course to 210 True.
November 15, 1942: Underway in company Task Group 67.1 and destroyer
excort enroute Segund Channel on course 210 True,
speed 13 knots.
Formation in line of division guides, LIBRA 3rd ship
in Transdiv 2.
0530- Various courses and speeds forming column and entering
Segund Channel, and at
0705- Anchored in berth B-7.
1400- Loading cargo by boat from CRESCENT CITY.
November 16, 1942: Anchored as before in berth B-7, Segund Channel.
Loading cargo by boat from CRESCENT CITY.
0530- Underway and at
0700- Moored to port side TAPPAHANNOCK.
0800- Fueling and loading gasoline drums. Loading by boat
from ZEILIN.
1100- Received CTF 62 despatch 160420 forming Task Unit
62.4.2.
November 17, 1942: Moored to port side TAPPAHANNOCK in Segund Channel,
loading gasoline and loading cargo by boat from
ZEILIN.
0810- Underway and at
0830- Anchored in berth B-7.
1600- Underway enroute Guadalcanal in accordance CTF 62
despatch 160420/November.
1700- Took PAB-4 in tow alongside to port. Various courses
standing to sea.
1824- Streamed PAB-4 astern. Towline fouled.
2000- PAB-4 clear. Set various courses to join Task Unit
62.4.2 (BETELGEUSE-OTC).
2127- In Position. Course 000 True, speed 12 knots.
Zig-Zag. Increasing speed on order from unit
commander to 15 knots.
November 18, 1942: Underway enroute Guadalcanal in company Task Unit
62.4.2 on course 000 True. Speed 15 knots. PAB-4 in
tow astern.
0042- Pelican hook on fantail parted dropping tow.
Maneuvered to pick up tow.
0143- PAB-4 alongside.
0538- New tow line rove. Underway course 315 , speed 13
knots.
0852- Bridle on PAB-4 parted.
Maneuvered to pick up tow.
0932- PAB-4 alongside. Remade bride.
1200 Position - Lat. 14 -37’ S.
Long. 167 -00’ E.
1245- Proceeding. Course 315 , Speed 10 knots.
1315- Hydrophone effect. Changed course to 150 True.
1346- Changed course to 315 True.
Changed speed to 10.8 knots.
During both periods while laying to recovering PAB-4,
BETELGEUSE and destroyer screen maneuvered in
vicinity, sometimes close aboard, but frequently 2 to
5 miles distant.
November 19, 1942: Underway in company Task Unit 68.4.2 enroute
Guadalcanal on course 315 True. Speed 10.8 knots.
PAB-4 in tow astern. BETELGEUSE and screen patrolling
station, sometimes close but more frequently at
distance of 2 to 5 miles.
0140- MUSTIN dropped depth charge and at
0215- reported sound contact.
0900- Changed course to 000 True.
1200 Position - Lat. 12 -04’ S.
Long. 168 -30’ E.
1250- Sound contact reported.
Changed course to 125 True.
1320- Returned to course 000 True.
1400- Changed course to 270 True.
1700- Changed course to 000 True.
2100- Changed course to 270 True.
November 20, 1942: Underway in company Task Unit 62.4.2 enroute
Guadalcanal on course 270 True, Speed 10.8 knots, with
PAB-4 in tow.
0100- Changed course to 000 True.
0500- Changed course to 270 True.
1200 Position - Lat. 10 -24’ S.
Long. 162 -22’ E.
1300- Changed course to 335 True.
1715- TREVER, ZANE joined Task Unit.
1730- Changed course to 270 True.
2000- Changed course to 310 True.
2355- Changed course to 270 True.
November 21, 1942: Underway in company Task Unit 62.4.2 enroute Lunga
Point, Guadalcanal on course 270 True, at speed 10.8
knots, towing PAB-4.
0405- Entered Lengo Channel.
0500- Various courses approaching Lunga Point and at
0622- Anchored to eastward of Lunga Point.
0630- Commenced discharging cargo by boat to shore.
Delivered PAB-4 to BOBOLINK.
1510- Air raid warning by radio.
1519- Underway on signal from CTU 62.4.2. Various courses to
northward.
1643- Returned to anchorage.
Continued discharge of cargo. BETELGEUSE aground.
1715- Underway with escort and at
1912- Anchored in Tulagi Harbor.
November 22, 1942: Anchored in Tulagi Harbor.
Fueled TREVER and ZANE.
0404- Underway and at
0553- Anchored to eastward of Lunga Point.
Discharging cargo. Boats( having worked all night
unloading BETELGEUSE) very slow.
1658- Underway on northerly course and at
1902- Anchored Tulagi Harbor.
November 23, 1942: Anchored Tulagi Harbor.
0355- Underway on southerly courses.
0547- Anchored east of Lunga Point.
Discharging cargo.
1215- Air raid warning.
1230- All clear.
1710- Underway to northward and at
1846- Anchored in Tulagi Harbor.
November 24, 1942: Anchor Tulagi Harbor.
0400- Underway to southward
0537- Anchored east of Lungs, Point,
Discharging cargo.
1700- Underway to northward and at
1835- Anchored Tulagi Harbor.
1854- Commenced fueling ZANE
2147- Fueled MUSTIN.
November 25, 1942: At anchor Tulagi Harbor.
0055- McCALLA alongside for fuel.
0425- Received PAB-6 alongside.
0435- Underway to southward.
0650- Anchored to east of Lunga Point.
0800- Received CTF 62 despatch 240447, directing MacFARLAND
to join LIBRA for passage to Segund Channel.
Received CTU 62.4.2 despatch 232155/Nov. to form Task
Unit 62.4.5 LIBRA, McCALLA, TREVER.
1820- BETELGEUSE left area.
1857- Underway for Tulagi.
2130- Anchored Tulagi.
November 26, 1942: At anchor Tulagi Harbor.
0325- Air raid warning.
0422- Underway to southward.
0645- Anchored to east of Lunga Point.
BARNETT Present. ALCHIBA headed for Tulagi.
Discharging cargo.
1000- Cargo unloaded.
1700- Task Unit 62.4.5 (LIBRA, TREVER, McCALLA, McFARLAND)
underway for Segund Channel with PAB-6 in tow astern.
Various courses through Lengo Channel at 2/3 speed (8
knots) awaiting McFARLAND to join. TREVER despatched
to assist McFARLAND.
2100- TREVER McFARLAND in sight astern, and at
2230- Joined formation.
2240- Ahead standard speed 12 knots.
2300- Changed course to 128 True.
ComSeronSoPac 260427/November assigns upkeep alongside
VESTAL.
November 27, 1942: Underway with Task Unit 62.4.5 (LIBRA, CTU)
enroute Segund Channel on course 128 True.
Speed 12 knots (to make 10.5 good) with PAB-6 in tow
astern.
0500- Changed course to 090 True.
0650- Stopped awaiting McFARLAND.
0710- McFARLAND rejoined.
0800- Changed course to 133 True.
0930- Circled McFARLAND while latter effecting repairs to
jury rudder.
1015- Resumed base course.
1200 Position - Lat. 10 -22’ S.
Long. 162 -40’ E.
1900- Changed course to 090 True.
2100- Changed course to 1330 True.
November 28, 1942: Underway with Task Unit 62.4.5 (LIBRA CTU) enroute
Segund Channel on course 133 True, speed 12 knots to
make 10.5 good.
PAB-6 in tow astern.
1200 Position - Lat. 13 -06’ S.
Long. 165 -50’ E.
1300- Changed course to 140 True.
November 29, 1942: Underway with Task Unit 62.4.5 (LIBRA OTC) enroute
Segund Channel on course 140 True. Speed 12 knots to
make 10.5 good with PAB-6 in tow.
0200- Changed course to 180 True.
0500- Various courses approaching and entering Segund
Channel and at
0700- Anchored in berth D-8.
Delivered PAB-6 to Naval Base.
Disbanded Task Unit 62.4.5.
1200- Discharging passengers and miscellaneous cargo ashore.
Received loading orders, CTF 62 despatch 280755/
November.
November 30, 1942: At anchor in berth D-8, Segund Channel,
Espiritu Santo I.
0600- Underway and at
0620- Moored port side to JOAQUIN MILLER in berth A-6.
0800- Commenced loading gasoline drums and loading 90mm
ammunition and small arms by boat from shore station.
W.B. Fletcher, Jr.,
Commander, U.S. Navy,
Commanding.
ACTION REPORT
USS LIBRA AK53
SERIAL 020 17 NOVEMBER 1942
ACTION REPORT
Covers air attack on Task Group 62.4
Off GUADALCANAL at 0941 and 1127,
November 11, and at 1412, November 12.
From: Executive Officer.
To: Commanding Officer.
Subject: Enemy Action of Guadalcanal, Solomon Island,
November 11, 1942.
Reference: (a) Article 948, U.S. Navy Regulation.
1. The period of the First Action was during about the
following time, 0919 - 0945. There was no time, or
opportunity to take notes. My observations were from abeam
each side, and aft. Prior to the sounding of General
Quarters, about 0919, all hands were unloading ship from all
hatches. Shortly after the sounding of General Quarters the
ship was underway, standing out from the unloading area, all
battle station manned.
2. About 0935, observed bombs exploding, 10 to 15 splashes, in
the water several miles away to Westward. None of our ships
were near these explosions. Did not see any planes. About
0937 observed six enemy dive bombers on port quarters, about
8000 yards, elevation angle about 60 . About 0938 they
started peeling off for dives on our transports. About 0939
the order to commence firing was received. The 3" guns, #3
and #4, immediately opened fire on the dive bomber diving
for our stern. Some bursts were observed near plane. At
about 3000 yards distance our 20mm guns on poop-deck opened
fire. The port gun failed after one shot. No more shots
were fired by this gun on this plane. Something appeared to
be wrong with the magazine. It was immediately replaced by
another magazine. At about 800 yards this dive bomber
pulled out of its dive, leveled off and passed between this
ship and the U.S.S. ZEILIN. The right wing of this plane
was burning. About 0943 another plane was observed diving
on out port quarter. The 3", #3 and #4 guns and the 20mm on
poop-deck opened up with Rapid fire. This dive bomber was
coming fast straight at us. It leveled off about a hundred
yards from us and passed along our port side. I could see
the enemy machine gun bullets striking the water about 25-50
feet from us. Just as it passed our stern I saw a bomb,
probably 100-lbs., strike the water and disappear, about 50-
75 feet away. About 15-30 seconds later there was an
underwater explosion, causing the stern to jump up and down
violently for about 5-7 seconds. I believe that this
explosion was the one which occurred near #2 hold as no
upheaval of water was observed astern. As this same plane
was approaching and passing I observed 20mm tracers from
port side forward guns and port 20mm gun on poop-deck,
entering the plane. During these last few minutes I noted
several enemy planes pass over head at about 6000-8000
yards. The 20mm tried to train on them between and after
the dive bombers, but had difficulty doing so, due to the
elevation. The 3" did some firing at them. The 20mm guns
on the poop-deck were new, and had never been fired. The
crews are fairly well trained, but lack experience on this
type of gun.
3. Period about 1104-1159 (Second Action)
At 1104 General Quarters was sounded and about 1100 all
stations were manned and the ship was underway. About 1127
I observed 27 bombers in close formation on an easterly
course along the North coast of Guadalcanal Island, distance
10-15 miles, elevation about 16000-18000 yards. About 1138
the ATLANTA opened fire and then the accompanying destroyers
opened fire. The shells appeared to be bursting short.
About 1140 upon receiving orders to commence firing, the 3"
opened fire, but believe all our burst were short. The
range was considerable, probably 16000-18000 yards. About
this time clouds of smoke and dust were rising from the
airfield probably to a height of 1000 feet. The bomber
formation did not vary or change. About 1148 "Cease-firing"
was ordered. About 1150 saw one bomber spiraling in flames
and strike the water to the Eastward. About 1152 saw
another plane crash in the bay to the Eastward. About this
time I saw a parachute coming down in the hills to the
Southwest of the airfield. About 1159 secured from General
Quarters.
4. The men aft appeared less excited than at the Battle of
Guadalcanal on August 7-9. They appeared more serious and
determined. Everyone was quiet. They all did their
designated task well. No individual was outstanding. They
worked as a unit and as such all were outstanding.
A.B. DICKIE,
ANTI-AIRCRAFT ACTION BY SURFACE SHIPS
LOCATION OF SHIP: GUADALCANAL USS LIBRA(AK53)
DATE November 11, 1942
General Quarters: 0919; Opened fire 0941; Ceased firing 0945
NOTES:
(a) REPEL ATTACK FIRST - Then collect data for this report.
(b) Do not "Gun Deck" this report - if data cannot be estimated with
reasonable accuracy enter dash in space for which no data is available.
(c) These sheets are to be filled out immediately after action is completed
with available data from ship’s log, memory, and consultation with
ship’s officers. Information is essential in order that the
effectiveness of our equipment can be determined. Where data is of
doubtful accuracy fill in with general terms. The obtaining or this
information must not be allowed in any way to adversely affect the
handling of equipment during action.
1. SURPRISE ATTACK (Yes or No): No; Radar warning net from shore radio.
2. METHOD PICKING PLANE UP (Radar, binoculars, naked eye): Binoculars.
(if by radar state type of set) - - -
3. RANGE PLANE WAS PICKED UP (50 miles, 30 miles, 10 miles, less 5 miles):
10 MILES
4. Number of planes: 9 plus fighter escort.
5. Type of plane (fighter, Scout, dive-bomber): Dive Bombers and fighter
escort.
Type of attack: Dive bombing.
6. Speed & Altitude (High and fast, intermediate and fast, low and fast,
high and slow, intermediate and slow, low and slow): Fast; approach
10,000 ft. dove from 5000ft. released at 1000.
7. Guns Firing: All Size: 3"/50 cal., 20mm Number: 4, 10
Method of control: local; central Method spotting: local; central.
8. Ammunition expended: 3"-20 rounds: 20mm. 1050 rounds.
9. Percent service allowance expended: 3" 2½% : 20mm 2%.
10. Approximate time tracking to first shot: 5 minutes
11. Approximate time of first hits: 2 minutes
12. Approximate time first shot to last shot: 4 minutes
13. Approximate position angle open fire: 50
14. Approximate position cease fire: varied.
15. Approximate bearing first shot: 190 degrees relative.
16. Approximate bearing last shot: 280 degrees relative.
17. Approximate range first shot: 6,000 ft.
18. Approximate range last shot: 800 yards.
19. Approximate altitude of bomb release: 1000
Type of bomb: light
20. Approximate Range Torpedo Release: 0 Size: 0
21. Hits on ship: None Was ship strafed: Yes Size Gun: - - -
22. Number near bomb misses: One Casualties from near misses: 0
Near miss approx. 30-40 ft. port side #2 Hold-Frames bent and rivets
leaking. Minor damage.
23. Planes shot down: 1 (Sure) 1 (Possible) 0 (Damaged) 1
By what size gun: 20mm.
24. Details of damage to target by gunfire if available: Bullets passed
through plane body and wing, but started fire on right wing and right
side of body near cockpit. Plane crashed off port beam.
25. Performance of ammunition (excellent, good, bad, poor): Good. Great
care must be taken in loading 20mm magazines and in handling them prior
to loading. We had one stoppage due to a shell being bent from bump
while being loaded on the gun.
26. Pattern sizes (large, small excessive): Large.
SKETCH
(a) Indicate direction of attack relative to ship’s bearing.
(b) Show relative position of sun.
(c.) Indicate own maneuvers.
ANTI-AIRCRAFT ACTION BY SURFACE SHIPS
LOCATION OF SHIP: GUADALCANAL USS LIBRA(AK53)
DATE November 11, 1942
General Quarters: 1104; Opened fire 1127; Ceased firing 1135
NOTES:
(a) REPEL ATTACK FIRST - Then collect data for this report.
(b) Do not "Gun Deck" this report - if data cannot be estimated with
reasonable accuracy enter dash in space for which no data is available.
(c) These sheets are to be filled out immediately after action is completed
with available data from ship’s log, memory, and consultation with
ship’s officers. Information is essential in order that the
effectiveness of our equipment can be determined. Where data is of
doubtful accuracy fill in with general terms. The obtaining or this
information must not be allowed in any way to adversely affect the
handling of equipment during action.
1. SURPRISE ATTACK (Yes or No): No; Radar warning net from shore radio.
2. METHOD PICKING PLANE UP (Radar, binoculars, naked eye): Binoculars.
(if by radar state type of set) - - -
3. RANGE PLANE WAS PICKED UP (50 miles, 30 miles, 10 miles, less 5 miles):
15 MILES
4. Number of planes: approx. 25 with fighter escort.
5. Type of plane (fighter, Scout, dive-bomber): Heavy Bombers.
Type of attack: high altitude. precision bombing.
6. Speed & Altitude (High and fast, intermediate and fast, low and fast,
high and slow, intermediate and slow, low and slow): very high, approx.
25000 ft.: planes medium speed.
7. Guns Firing: 3" Size: 3"/50 cal. Number: 4
Method of control: central Method spotting: central.
8. Ammunition expended: 49 rounds.
9. Percent service allowance expended: 6%.
10. Approximate time tracking to first shot: approx. 5 minutes
11. Approximate time of first hits: no hits seen.
12. Approximate time first shot to last shot: 8 minutes
13. Approximate position angle open fire: 60 degrees.
14. Approximate position cease fire: 70 degrees.
15. Approximate bearing first shot: 200 degrees relative.
16. Approximate bearing last shot: 160 degrees relative.
17. Approximate range first shot: 10,000 ft.
18. Approximate range last shot: 19,000 yards.
19. Approximate altitude of bomb release: 25,000 ft.
Type of bomb: heavy.
20. Approximate Range Torpedo Release: 0 Size: 0
21. Hits on ship: None Was ship strafed: no Size Gun: - - -
22. Number near bomb misses: none Casualties from near misses: 0
23. Planes shot down: 0 (Sure) 0 (Possible) 0 (Damaged) 0
By what size gun: - - -
24. Details of damage to target by gunfire if available: Planes about 5000
yds. astern and 25,000 ft. high were always out of range of our 3"/50.
25. Performance of ammunition (excellent, good, bad, poor): Good.
26. Pattern sizes (large, small excessive): Small.
SKETCH
(a) Indicate direction of attack relative to ship’s bearing.
(b) Show relative position of sun.
(c) Indicate own maneuvers.
November 14, 1942.
From: Executive Officer.
To: Commanding Officer.
Subject: Enemy Action off Guadalcanal, Solomon Island,
November 12, 1942.
Reference: (a) Article 948, U.S. Navy Regulations.
1. At 1323 while unloading ship, General Quarters was sounded and by
1325 all stations were manned and the ship was underway.
Information had been received that an enemy air attack by 25
planes was eminent. About 1413 observed two groups of torpedo
planes, nine in one group and six in the other, approaching from
the southeast end of Florida Island, probably about 15 miles
distance. They were very close to the water, probably about 50
feet or less. The group of six slowly circled around to the
starboard quarter of our formation and then started their
approach. Shortly thereafter three destroyers on our starboard
beam, quarter, and stern-port quarter, opened fire. Almost
immediately our three inch guns began firing rapidly. The range
was at that time probably 5000 yards. Shells were bursting all
around the planes, but they came on. One enemy plane crashed and
burst into flames very near the destroyer on our starboard
quarter. At first I thought it had crashed into the destroyer.
At this time another enemy plane was heading towards and ahead of
the destroyer on our port quarter (this destroyer had been nearly
astern) from starboard to port, about 1000 yards from our stern.
All guns aft fired on this plane. Tracers were seen all around
and pouring into it. Fire was halted on this plane just in time
to prevent hitting the destroyer. This plane then swung right and
went on a parallel course to the LIBRA, about 800 yards to port
and passed ahead out of sight. I sure many hit were made on this
plane by the LIBRA’s 20mm guns. At this same time observed
another enemy plane pass astern of the destroyer on our port
quarter and then go down in flames. I believe the cruiser U.S.S.
HELENA, on our port quarter, hit it. It was at this time that I
observed considerable white smoke coming from the stern of this
cruiser, and thought it had been hit. I now believe that it was a
smoke generator that been pierced or that a smoke screen was being
attempted. Immediately another Jap bomber was seen crossing our
stern, starboard to port, about 1000 yards distance. All gun aft
poured a vertible hail of lead into and around it. As it reached
a point where our fire, if continued, would strike the destroyer
on our port quarter, the fire was shifted to still another Jap
bomber, which was dead astern of and heading straight at us, a
distance of some 1500 yards. A murderous fire of shell was poured
into and around it. But it still came on, shifter its course a
little to port, passing close aboard to port, about 100 feet. As
it went by the big Jap sun on the plane’s side looked very large.
At this time the port 20mm gunner put nearly a whole magazine of
bullets into it. I expected it to crash, but it didn’t until
further hits were made on it by our forward gunners. About this
time an explosion was felt. No more planes were seen in the air
aft, but everyone was very much on the alert, especially as the
word was received to expect dive bombers. Upon looking around the
bay I counted seven Jap planes burning or wrecked in the water.
All our ships appeared unharmed. A little later, about a mile
astern, I saw the tail of one of our fighter planes sticking
straight up out of the water. A destroyer was seen going toward
it. Word was then received that a submarine was sighted and to
train the 5" gun to 200 and load if ordered. The sub turned out
to be a Jap plane that a destroyer was firing on.
2. In the above there are no doubt inaccuracies, but am certain that
on the whole, it is fairly accurate. The sequence of events are
about correct. There was too much going on to even begin to get a
good picture of all events. I was busy directing the guns,
ammunition party, spotting the most threatening plane, ect.
3. Have not said much about the 3" guns due to not being stationed
there I could observe them closely. However, I know they were
firing continually. Saw many 3" bursts around the planes. All
the men behaved like veterans. In all departments I know they
were better than the day before. Certainly there was much more
fire power, team work, and accuracy than the day before, when they
handled the situation extremely well. The amount of fire was
greatly increased on the 20mm guns due to better located targets
to fire on and also due to the sights having been removed so they
did not have difficulty in locating the targets.
A.B. DICKIE.
ANTI-AIRCRAFT ACTION BY SURFACE SHIPS
LOCATION OF SHIP: GUADALCANAL USS LIBRA(AK53)
DATE November 12, 1942
General Quarters: 1323; Opened fire 1412; Ceased firing 1445
NOTES:
(a) REPEL ATTACK FIRST - Then collect data for this report.
(b) Do not "Gun Deck" this report - if data cannot be estimated with
reasonable accuracy enter dash in space for which no data is available.
(c) These sheets are to be filled out immediately after action is completed
with available data from ship’s log, memory, and consultation with
ship’s officers. Information is essential in order that the
effectiveness of our equipment can be determined. Where data is of
doubtful accuracy fill in with general terms. The obtaining or this
information must not be allowed in any way to adversely affect the
handling of equipment during action.
1. SURPRISE ATTACK (Yes or No): No; Radar warning net from shore radio.
2. METHOD PICKING PLANE UP (Radar, binoculars, naked eye): Binoculars.
(if by radar state type of set) - - -
3. RANGE PLANE WAS PICKED UP (50 miles, 30 miles, 10 miles, less 5 miles):
14000 yards.
4. Number of planes: approx. 15 with fighter escort.
5. Type of plane (fighter, Scout, dive-bomber): torpedo bombers.
Type of attack: torpedo.
6. Speed & Altitude (High and fast, intermediate and fast, low and fast,
high and slow, intermediate and slow, low and slow): very low and
medium.
7. Guns Firing: all Size: 3"/50 cal.; 20mm. Number: 4/10
Method of control: central ; local Method spotting: central ; local.
8. Ammunition expended: 3" 59 rounds; 20mm 1038 rounds.
9. Percent service allowance expended: 3" 6% ; 20mm 2%.
10. Approximate time tracking to first shot: approx. 10 minutes
11. Approximate time of first hits: 15 minutes.
12. Approximate time first shot to last shot: 20 minutes
13. Approximate position angle open fire: 0 degrees.
14. Approximate position cease fire: varied.
15. Approximate bearing first shot: 040 deg. And 165 deg. (relative).
16. Approximate bearing last shot: varied.
17. Approximate range first shot: 4,000 yds.
18. Approximate range last shot: 4,000 yds.
19. Approximate altitude of bomb release: 30 ft.
Type of bomb: - - -.
20. Approximate Range Torpedo Release: saw only one released at close range
(1000 yds.); it turned end over end upon hitting water. Size: ---
21. Hits on ship: None Was ship strafed: no Size Gun: - - -
22. Number near bomb misses: none Casualties from near misses: 0
23. Planes shot down: 2 (Sure) 1 (Possible) 1 (Damaged) 1
By what size gun: 20mm.; (other ships firing on same planes)
24. Details of damage to target by gunfire if available: Did not open fire
with 3" soon enough to get good range. Targets broke up and came in
very low off stbd. Qtr. At height of 30 feet, crossing our stern close
aboard (about 300 yds.) and then flew between column of our ships. It
was during this time we shot down one(1) definitely.
25. Performance of ammunition (excellent, good, bad, poor): very good.
26. Pattern sizes (large, small excessive): small.
SKETCH
(a) Indicate direction of attack relative to ship’s bearing.
(b) Show relative position of sun.
(c) Indicate own maneuvers.
AMPHIBIOUS FORCE
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
Office of the Commander
U.S.S. ARGONNE, Flagship,
December 3, 1942.
CONFIDENTIAL
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO, LIBRA’s Conf. Ltr.
AK53/SD/TS-133 Ser. 020
of November 17, 1942.
From: Commander Amphibious Force, South Pacific.
To : Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Via : Commander South Pacific Force.
Subject: Action Report.
1. Forwarded.
R.K. TURNER
Copy to:
Comairsopac
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
of the United States Pacific Fleet
Headquarters of the Commander
A16-3/(90)
Serial 00117c
S-E-C-R-E-T
December 9, 1942.
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO USS LIBRA Conf. Ltr.
AK53/A9-8 Serial 020
of November 17, 1942.
From: The Commander South Pacific Area and
South Pacific Force.
To : The Commander-in-Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Subject: Action Report.
1. Forwarded.
2. Classification of this correspondence has been changed from
"Confidential" to "Secret", and by copy of this endorsement the
originator is directed to change his copy accordingly.
W.F. HALSEY
Copy to:
Comampforsopac
CO USS LIBRA
Comairsopac
History of the U.S.S. LIBRA
Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships
U.S.S. LIBRA AK-53
Libra (AK-53) was laid down as Jean Lykes by Federal Shipbuilding & Dry Dock
Co., Kearny, N.J., under contract for Lykes Steamship Co., Galveston, Tex.;
launched 12 November 1941; sponsored by Mrs. Hale Boggs, wife of Congressman
Boggs of Louisiana; acquired by the Navy 30 December 1941; named Libra 9
January 1942; and commissioned 13 May 1942, Comdr. W. B. Fletcher in command.
Completing conversion at New York City 26 May 1942, Libra loaded combat
equipment at Hampton Roads and sailed 10 June for Wellington, New Zealand,
arriving 11 July. Laden with cargo for the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force,
she sailed 22 July for rehearsals in the Fijis for the first Allied
offensive in the Pacific, the Solomons campaign. Libra arrived off Tulagi 7
August and began an unloading interrupted six times in the next 3 days as
enemy air attack caused her to go to general quarters and stand off to
maneuver in open waters. In the early morning 9 August, she heard heavy
gunfire to the northwest, where Allied men-o'-war engaged the Japanese in the
Battle of Savo Island, fighting to protect the transports and their vital
cargo. Later the same day, empty, she sailed for Wellington, arriving 20
August.
For the next 2 months, Libra sailed from Noumea to the Ellice Islands and
Espiritu Santo, base for the Guadalcanal operation, building up supplies.
She returned to Guadalcanal 11 November, and her group almost immediately
came under enemy air attack. The determined enemy sent another seven planes
against the transports next day, all were splashed by Libra and her sisters.
She sailed for Espiritu Santo 13 November as the Battle of Guadalcanal, just
south of Savo Island, raged to a victory which gave the allies sea control
off the southern Solomons. Returning to Espiritu Santo 15 November, Libra
prepared for two additional voyages to Guadalcanal during the next month,
bringing cargo essential to the epic struggles of the marines to wrest the
island from the Japanese.
From mid-December 1942 through March 1943, Libra redesignated AKA-12 on 1
February, carried war equipment from New Zealand to bases in the New
Hebrides. Joining the 3d Fleet 20 March, she returned to Guadalcanal 3 April,
and 4 days later joined in fighting off land-based enemy aircraft. She
returned to Espiritu Santo 10 April, and during the next 80 days made four
voyages carrying cargo for the occupation of Guadalcanal. For her superlative
performance of duty through the Guadalcanal campaign, Libra received the
Navy Unit Commendation. She earned it in part 30 June when, unloading cargo
at Rendova, her task group came under heavy enemy air attack. Deadly
antiaircraft fire downed 17 of the 25 attacking torpedo planes before they
could launch torpedoes, but got through to strike McCawley after passing
under Libra, unladen and high in the water. Libra took the stricken transport
in tow. Later the same day, the two were attacked by eight dive-bombers,
three of whom they splashed. Relieved of the tow later that afternoon, Libra
returned to Guadalcanal.
Aside from a repair period in New Zealand in August, Libra gave the next 4
months to building up the base on Guadalcanal with cargo from New Caledonia,
then was part of the assault force for Bougainville arriving Empress Augusta
Bay 1 November. Promptly unloading, she sailed the same day for Guadalcanal
for additional cargo, with which she arrived Bougainville 8 November,
immediately to splash one of 25 dive bombers attacking her transport group.
Libra carried cargo among the New Hebrides, Solomons and Marshalls until June
1944. when she prepared for the assault on Guam. Arriving off Guam from
Eniwetok 21 July, she quickly discharged heavy equipment for the 3d Marines
on the Asan beaches, then sailed for San Francisco, arriving from Pearl
Harbor 19 August.
Overhauled, Libra sailed from San Francisco 20 October for Milne Bay, New
Guinea, and Manus, where she readied for the Lingayen Gulf landings. She
entered the gulf 11 January 1945, off-loaded her vital cargo, and sailed for
Leyte, Ulithi, and Guam. Her final amphibious operation was Iwo Jima, off
which she arrived 19 February. For 2 weeks she maneuvered off the volcanic
beaches, avoiding enemy shore batteries as she landed marine combat gear.
For the remainder of the war, Libra carried cargo from Noumea to Leyte and
intermediate ports. In the first of her post-war cargo runs supporting the
occupation of Japan, she entered Tokyo Bay 2 September. Such duty complete 21
November, Libra steamed for Seattle, arriving 31 November.
Serving with the Pacific Fleet out Of San Francisco for the next 2 years,
Libra made four voyages to the western Pacific for essential cargo
operations. She departed Guam 6 October 1947 for Hawaii, the Panama Canal,
and Boston, where she arrived 26 November. Here she decommissioned 19 April
1948 and entered the Atlantic Reserve Fleet.
With the increased demand on cargo facilities brought on by the Korean
conflict, Libra recommissioned 28 August 1950 to Join the Amphibious Force,
Atlantic Fleet, supporting its training operations along the east coast and
in the Caribbean. She served in the Mediterranean with the 6th Fleet 18
January 1954 to 12 May, then trained reservists, sailing often with them to
the Caribbean.
Libra decommissioned 6 October 1955 to join the Reserve Fleet at Charleston,
S.C., where she remained until transferred to the Maritime Administration in
July 1964. She entered the National Defense Reserve Fleet in the James River,
Va., where she remained into 1969.
Libra received nine battle stars for World War II service.
Procyon Class
Completed 1941-42
AKA-2 Procyon (AK-19)
AKA-3 Bellatrix (AK-20)
AKA-4 Electra (AK-21)
AKA-12 Libra (AK-53)
AKA-13 Titania (AK-55)
AKA-14 Oberron (AK-56)
Dimensions
Displacement(tons):
13,875 (Full load)
Length: 459’ (oa)
Beam: 63’
Draft: 26’ (max)
Armament
1 5"/ 38 DP
4 40mm twins
14 20mm twins
Carrying capacity
Cargo DWT: 4,800
8 LCM (3)
10 LCVP
Propulsion
Speed: 16 knots (max)
12 knots (econ)
Horsepower: 6,0000 (shaft)
Drive: Diesel on # 2-4
Geared turbine on #12-14
1 screws;
Fuel: 1,135 tons oil (max)
Links to other web-sites with information on the
U.S.S. LIBRA
NavSource
Online Has photos of AK-53
Naval
Historical Center Has info. and photos of the
U.S.S. LIBRA
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