CA-38 U.S.S. SAN
FRANCISCO
War Diary and Action Reports November 1942,
War Diary
U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO
For the Period
November 1, to November 30, 1942
General:
This diary contains only such information as is
considered to be of interest in regard to the part the San
Francisco is playing in the actual conduct of the war.
Administrative functions and routine affairs are not included
unless of some special interest.
All changes of course, speed, etc., are not
included. Course and speed made good from 1200 of the previous
day to 1200 are given daily with positions at 0800, 1200, and
2000, local zone time.
Zigzags when with convoy are from mersigs unless
otherwise specified. Zigzags when not with convoy are from
general tactical instructions or other navy standard publication
unless otherwise specified.
Normally, ship goes to general quarters one hour
prior to sunrise and re-sets condition three at sunrise. From
sunset to morning general quarters, the ship is in condition two.
When in condition 1 and 2, condition Z is normally maintained,
and in condition 3, condition Y.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 1, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 65 TASK GROUP 65.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 At sea with Task Force 65. Hunter Ligett, fleet
Guide. Zigzagging on base course 355, speed 14.
0140 1440 Course 315.
0240 1540 Course 283.
0900 2200 Course 308.
0925 2225 Sighted Espiritu Santo, 227° True, 7 Miles.
1300 0200 Course 315.
Task Force 65 enroute to reinforce Guadalcanal
In accordance with CTF 64 Op Order C-1, of
October 29, 1942
POSITIONS
0800 LAT 14-30 S LONG 167-18 E
1200 LAT 14-06 S LONG 166-32 E
2000 LAT 12-56 S LONG 165-19 E
1200 COURSE 321 T SPEED 13.2 Knots
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 2, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 65 TASK GROUP 65.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as OTC, Task Force 65 on course 315°,
Speed 14. Hunter Ligett as fleet guide.
0327 1627 Radar contact on 2 planes bearing 260°T, distance
14 miles.
0628 1928 Course 350 T.
0824 2124 Sighted B-17, bearing 080° T, distance 5 miles.
0925 2225 Course 030 T.
0953 2253 Course 330° T.
1030 2330 Course 290° T.
1048 2348 Course 300° T.
1217 0117 Course 020° T.
1350 0250 Course 245° T.
1505 0405 Course 205° T.
1530 0430 Sighted Pensacola and 4 destroyers bearing 183°,
Distance 15 miles.
1559 0459 Course 295° T.
1640 0540 Course 300° T.
1645 0540 Pensacola and 4 destroyers joined formation (TG
65.7).
1810 0710 Course 150° T.
1930 0830 Course 120° T.
2250 1150 Speed 15 Knots.
2358 1258 Course 270° T.
POSITIONS
0800 LAT 11-07 S LONG 163-31.5 E
1200 LAT 10-22 S LONG 163-02 E
2000 LAT 10-27 S LONG 162-30 E
1200 COURSE 320° T SPEED 12.3 Knots
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 3, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 65 TASK GROUP 65.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming at OTC Task Force course 270°T, speed 15
knots. San Francisco as guide.
0422 1222 McCalla left station to investigate contact
reported by Helena (radar).
0431 1731 McCalla dropped depth charges and reported heavy
under water explosions. Believed, to have
destroyed enemy submarines.
0500 1800 Sighted San Cristabol Island bearing 020°T,
distance 22 miles.
0555 1855 Speed 17 knots.
0640 1940 Course 150°T.
1000 2300 Atlanta and destroyers joined formation (TG 65.3)
1141 0041 Course 075°T.
1143 0041 Course 090°T.
1147 0047 Course 075°T.
1230 0130 Course 055°T.
1312 0234 Course 015°T
1434 0334 Sighted Fomalhaut bearing 005°T, 14 miles.
1435 0335 Speed 15 knots.
1441 0341 Course 000°T.
1446 2346 Transports of Task Force joined formation.
1525 0427 Fomalhaut joined formation.
1540 0440 Course 300°T.
1630 0530 Task force 65.4 formed approach disposition as
support force steaming ahead of transports under
respective group commanders.
1825 0725 Sighted Southard ahead.
1840 0740 Passed between San Cristobal and Ulawa Islands.
1900 0800 Course 280°T, speed 14 knots.
2000 0900 Ship went to general quarters.
2200 1100 Course 315°T.
2250 1150 Radar contact on several surface ships bearing
080°T distance 8 miles. Believed to be friendly.
2330 1230 Speed 16 knots.
2341 1241 Speed 18 knots.
POSITIONS
0800 LAT 11-09 S LONG 161-17 E
1200 LAT 11-13 S LONG 162-21.5 E
2000 LAT 09-59 S LONG 161-47 E
1200 COURSE 230° T SPEED 13.3 Knots
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 4, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 65 TASK GROUP 65.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as OTC and guide Task Group 65.4
(San Francisco, Helena, Laffey, Sterrett, and
Buchanan) on course 315°T, speed 18 knots. Ship is
at general quarters.
0027 1327 Speed 15 knots.
0044 1344 Course 280°T.
0121 1421 Course 320°T.
0126 1426 Course 000°T
0130 1430 Course 060°T.
0146 1446 Speed 13 knots-maneuvering on various courses in
Indispensable Strait. Task Group 65.6 (Eastern
Landing Group) Task Group 65.5 (Eastern Transport
Group)and Task Group 65.7 (Eastern Screening
Group) passed Task Group 65.4 some time during
night to effect landing transports Aola Bay. Task
Group 65.1 (Transport group and Task Group 65.3
(screening group) proceeded through Sealark
Channel during early morning.
0520 1820 Speed 17 knots.
0520 1820 Sighted 3 destroyers 310°T, distance 5 miles.
Identified as friendly.
0537 1837 Course 260°T.
0550 1850 Secured from general quarter.
0555 1855 Observed AA firing on port quarter.
0600 1900 Course 265°T.
0729 2029 Speed 6 knots.
0740 2040 Received surf boat alongside with 2 marine liaison
officers.
0739 2039 Destroyers commenced shelling Kokumbona.
0740 2040 Observed AA bursts on beach.
0850 2150 Speed 10 knots.
0758 2058 Sounded general quarters.
0814 2114 Launched one plane to spot for shore bombardment.
0830 2130 Commenced maneuvering on various course and speeds
for shore bombardment.
0837 2137 Commenced firing runs on Kohambona and Koli Point
as requested by Com.Gen. Guadalcanal. Expended
810 rounds 5° ammunition and 229 rounds 8".
1113 0013 Secured from general quarters.
1150 0050 Sounded general quarters. Air raid warning.
Transports of group 65.1 underway. Maneuvered at
various courses and speeds as AA screen around
transports.
1305 0205 Transports returned to unload.
1320 0220 Secured from general Quarters.
1357 0257 Marine officers left the ship.
1456 0356 Hoisted in plane to port.
1513 0413 Hoisted in plane to port.
1633 0533 Sounded AA defense. Guadalcanal reported
Aircraft bearing 300°T, distance 9 miles.
1637 0537 Aircraft reported as friendly.
1640 0540 Secured from a AA defense.
1747 0647 Various courses and speeds passing through Sealash
Channel.
1218 0712 Sounded general quarters. On various courses and
speeds during night off Aola Bay. AOLA Bay
transports continued unloading. Task Group 65.1
and 65.3 entered Indispensable Strait for night
to return early morning to continue unloading.
2313 1213 Sighted friendly ships bearing 312°T, distance
5,250 yards.
2330 1230 Task group 65.3 took station astern of Helena.
POSITIONS
0800 LAT 09-22 S LONG 160-01 E
1200 LAT 09-19 S LONG 160-05 E
2000 LAT 09-15 S LONG 160-49 E
1200 COURSE 311° T SPEED 10 Knots
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 5, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 65 TASK GROUP 65.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Maneuvering as before.
0343 1643 Task Group 65.3 left formation.
0550 1850 Secured from general quarters. Maneuvering at
Various courses and speeds as AA screen for Aola
landing group.
1050 2350 Sounded general quarters. Enemy aircraft reported
approaching Guadalcanal (24 Zeros, 27 twin-engine
bombers). Transports underway joined formation.
Bombers reported to have bombed airfield from high
altitude.
1221 0121 Secured from general quarters.
1220 0120 Transports returned to unload.
1400 0300 Task Group 65.1 and 65.3 completed unloading,
passed Aola Bay heading in a southeasterly
direction. Radar contact (identified as friendly).
1839 0739 Sounded general quarters.
1843 0743 Secured from general quarters.
2253 1153 Sighted searchlight beams over Guadalcanal.
POSITIONS
0800 LAT 09-25 S LONG 160-37 E
1200 LAT 09-29 S LONG 160-32 E
2000 LAT 09-21 S LONG 160-41 E
1200 COURSE 117° T SPEED 16 Knots
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 6, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 65 TASK GROUP 65.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as before.
0014 1514 Observed searchlights and flares over Savo Island.
0130 1430 Transport group completed unloading and got
underway.
0212 1512 Sounded general quarters. 2 enemy ships reported
near Savo Island.
0237 1537 Course 090°T,
0240 1540 Pensacola end destroyers joined formation.
0318 1618 Course ll0°T.
0325 1625 Speed 16 knots.
0445 1745 Course 130°T.
0546 1846 Secured from general quarters.
0835 2135 Sighted friendly ships bearing l00°T, distance 16
miles.
1318 0218 Course 100°T.
1441 0341 Course 150°T
1526 0426 Course 170°T.
1731 0631 Course 230°T.
1734 0634 Speed 18 knots.
1824 0724 Course 180°T.
Task group 65.4 covering retirement of transports
And screening groups proceeding Espiritu Santo.
Task Group 65.4 as reorganized comprises
San Francisco, Helena, Sterret, Gwin, Buchanan,
Laffey. This group also designated Task Force 65.
POSITIONS
0800 LAT 09-51.5 S LONG 161-33 E
1200 LAT 10-09 S LONG 162-32.5 E
2000 LAT 11-45 S LONG 162-58.2 E
1200 COURSE 109° T SPEED 5.8 Knots
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 7, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 65 TASK GROUP 65.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as before as OTC Teak Force 65
and fleet guide Task Group 65.4. Course
180° speed 15 knots.
0540 1840 Course 140°T.
0553 1853 Course 100°T.
0602 1902 Speed 16 knots.
1335 0235 Launched plane for Espiritu Santo.
1933 0833 Speed 15 knots.
2043 0943 Course 110°T.
POSITIONS
0800 LAT 14-05 S LONG 163-25 E
1200 LAT 14-14 S LONG 164-19 E
2000 LAT 14-22.5 S LONG 166-24 E
1200 COURSE 157° T SPEED 12.5 Knots
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 8, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 65 TASK GROUP 65.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as before with Task Force 65. San
Francisco fleet guide. Zigzagging on base course
110° T. Speed 15 knots
0134 1434 Course 155°T.
0147 1447 Course 195°T.
0236 1536 USS Sterret reported radar contact bearing 295°T,
distant 3000 yards. USS Buchanan ordered to
investigate. Investigation negative.
0239 1539 Commenced steaming on various courses at various
speeds approaching Espiritu Santo.
0446 1746 Launched one aircraft for anti-submarine patrol.
0619 1919 Moored starboard side to Guadalupe in Second
Channel, Espiritu Santo.
0847 2147 Shifted berths, mooring in berth Y-1, Second
Channel.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 9, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE TASK GROUP TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Anchored as before in Second Channel, Espiritu
Santo.
1330 0230 Captain Cassin Young, U.S. Navy relieved Captain
C. H. McMorris, U.S. Navy as Commanding officer
this vessel.
1513 0413 Shifted berth to X-6, Second Channel.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 10, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 67 TASK GROUP 67.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Anchored as before in Second Channel, Espiritu
Santo.
0603 1903 Underway in accordance with orders of CTF 67, as
Flagship of Task Group 67.4, composed of cruisers
San Francisco, Helena, Pensaco1a, and four
screening destroyers.
0648 1648 Clear of Espiritu Santo. Destroyers formed anti-
Submarine screen on cruisers. Cruisers in column
from van to rear, San Francisco, Helena,
Pensacola. Steaming on various courses at
various speeds approaching and passing through
Bougainville Straits.
0755 2055 Commenced zigzagging on case course 270°T, speed
15 knots.
1000 2300 Course 320°T.
1239 0139 Sighted plane bearing 035°T, distant 8 miles.
Identified as friendly.
1340 0240 Launched two aircraft for spotting Offset Battle
Practice.
1400 0300 Ceased zigzagging. Steadied up on 320°T.
1495 0305 Commenced firing Offset Battle Practice to
starboard.
1499 0309 Ceased firing. Practice completed.
1412 0312 Resumed zigzagging on base curse 320°T.
1454 0354 Steaming on various courses at various speeds to
Recover two aircraft
1532 0432 Resumed zigzagging on base course 320°T, speed 17
knots.
1734 0634 Course 280°T.
1736 0636 USS Preston, USS Gwin, and USS Pensacola left
Formation to join Task Force 16 for duty.
1930 0850 Course 326°T.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 11, 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 67 TASK GROUP 67.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as before with Task Group 67.4. San
Francisco, fleet guide. Zigzagging on base course
326°T, speed 17 knots.
0424 1724 Radar surface contact bearing 274°T, distant 18
miles. TBS communication identified contact as
USS Portland, USS Juneau, and accompanying
destroyers and transports.
0500 1800 Sighted eight ships bearing 290°T, distant 8
miles.
0541 1841 Identified as friendly.
0635 1935 Commenced steaming on various courses, joining
Task Force 67. This task group (67.4) joined the
remaining units of Task Force 67. Comtaskfor 67
in USS McCawley (OTC) USS Helena, USS Portland,
USS Juneau, USS Shaw, USS Monssen, USS Sterrett,
USS Cushing, USS Buchanan, USS Laffey.
0700 2000 Zigzagging on course 330°T, speed 15 knots.
0727 2027 USS Shaw alongside for mail passing.
0753 2053 Course 300°T.
0816 2116 Course 130°T.
0820 2120 Course 150°T.
0855 2155 Course 240°T.
0905 2205 Course 330°T.
0928 2228 USS Sterret alongside for passing mail.
1007 2307 Course 300°T.
1044 2344 Sighted San Cristobal Island bearing 320°T,
distant 45 miles.
1046 2346 Course 260°T.
1128 0028 USS Helena had radar contact on aircraft
bearing180°T distant 20 miles. Aircraft sighted
at 1135, distant 8 miles. Identified as enemy
twin float reconnaissance mid or low-wing
monoplane. Appeared to be using shadowing tactics
1136 0036 Sounded AA defense.
1201 0101 Secured from AA Defense.
1228 0128 Course 280°T.
1307 0207 Sighted friendly patrol plane (PBY) bearing 345°T,
distant 8 miles.
1322 0222 Course 300°T.
1327 0227 Speed 22 knots.
1347 0247 USS Monssen depth charged sound contact. Results
unknown.
1500 0400 Course 270°T.
1505 0405 Launched two planes.
1509 0409 Course 300°T.
1604 0504 Course 345°T.
1635 0535 Sighted two planes bearing 125°T. Planes not
identified
1707 0607 Course 000°T.
1720 0620 Sighted Guadalcanal Island bearing 340°T.
1835 0735 Cruisers formed in column, van to rear, San
Francisco, Helena, Portland, Juneau.
1840 0740 Ship went to general quarters.
1925 0825 Course 315°T.
2008 0908 Formed battle disposition, cruisers maintaining
column, 4 destroyers forming column dead ahead of
cruisers.
2017 0917 Course 285°T.
2112 1012 Speed 15 knots.
2115 1015 USS Atlanta and 3 destroyers joined formation
astern. Steaming on various westerly courses
proceeding along north coast of Guadalcana1.
2250 1150 Observed sporadic artillery fire along coast of
Guadalcanal.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 12 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 67 TASK GROUP 67.4 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as before on a westerly courses along
north coast of Guadalcanal. Speed 15 knots. In
company with Task Group 67.4 plus Atlanta and 3
destroyers.
0005 1305 Changed course to north and commenced patrol in
vicinity of Lunga Point.
0516 1816 Transports group arrived Lunga Point area and
commenced unloading. Combatant ships acting as
screen.
0547 1847 USS Buchanan made underwater sound contact and
attacked with depth charges. Results unknown.
0624 1924 Secured from general quarters.
0645 1945 Enemy shore battery opened fire on transport
group. USS Helena and two destroyers proceeded to
return fire and to silence battery.
1318 0218 Received information of imminent attack by enemy
air group. All ships underway and at AA defense.
1408 0308 Attacked by 21 enemy torpedo bombers. Details of
attack contained in Report of Torpedo Attack.
November 12, 1942.
1416 0316 Enemy torpedo bombers crashed dived into after
bulkhead of After Main Battery Control Station.
Burning gasoline caused heavy casualties. List of
casualties appended this diary.
1430 0330 Action completed. Transports and screen returned
to unloading operations.
1525 0425 Secured from AA defense.
1835 0735 Transports underway upon completion of unloading,
combatant ships screening their retirement.
Steaming on easterly courses at various speeds.
2211 1111 Screening group left transports and reversed
course to proceed to intercept strong enemy force
sighted by own aircraft approaching Guadalcanal.
2217 1117 Course 270°T, speed 18 knots.
2236 1236 Speed 15 knots.
2356 1256 Course 260°T.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 13 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 67 TASK GROUP 67.4 TASK UNIT
0009 1309 Course220°T. Passing through Lengo Channel.
0011 1311 Course 270°T.
0023 1323 Course 280°T.
0123 1423 Speed 18 knots.
0128 1428 USS Helena radar screen showed object bearing
315°T, distance 31,900 yards. This contact
developed into three groups as the range closed.
0133 1433 Course 315°T .
0140 1440 Course 000°T.
0148 1448 Commenced engagement with enemy surface forces.
Details in Report of Night Action, 12-13
November,1942. Upon breaking off action, retired
eastward along north coast of Guadalcanal.
0400 1700 (Approximately) Joined USS Helena, who assumed
command and passed eastward through Sealark
Channel. Took station astern of Helena and
followed her movements, since all compasses on
this ship were out of commission due to action
damage. Set course for Espiritu Santo. Joined at
daylight by USS Juneau, USS Fletcher, USS
O'Bannon, USS Sterrett, and USS Buchanan.
Steaming, on easterly course at approximately 16
knots.
1101 0001 USS JUNEAU hit by one, possibly two, torpedoes,
Which passed close aboard this ship. Details in
action report of this attack.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 14 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE TASK GROUP TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as before on easterly courses, at speed
20 knots, Enroute Guadalcanal to Espiritu Santo.
1014 2314 USS Sterrett made sound contact. Formation
maneuvered radically to avoid possible torpedo
attack. No attack made. USS Sterrett lost
contact at 1027 and rejoined formation.
1553 0453 Entered port and anchored in berth A-11, Second
Channel, Espiritu Santo.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 15-18 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE TASK GROUP TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Anchored as before in berth A-11, Second Channel,
Espiritu Santo.
1300 On November 17, 1942, Captain Albert F. Frence,
U.S.N. assumed command of this vessel
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 18 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 62 TASK GROUP 62.7 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Anchored as before in berth A-11, Second Channel,
Espiritu Santo.
1645 0545 Underway and proceeded out of port, enroute
Espiritu Santo to Noumea. Ships in company, USS
Helena, USS Sterrett, USS Buchanan, and USS Gwin.
USS Helena guide, destroyers formed as anti-
submarine screen. Speed 20 knots. Task Group
designated 62.7. Group Commander, C.O. USS
Helena.
2035 0935 USS Gwin depth charged sound contact. No torpedo
attack observed. Contact lost, no results of
depth charge attack observed
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 19 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 62 TASK GROUP 62.7 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as before on southerly courses Enroute
Espiritu Santo to Noumea, New Caledonia.
POSITIONS
0800 LAT 19-15.5 S LONG 167-55.7 E
1200 LAT 20-19 S LONG 168-23 E
2000 LAT 22-17 S LONG 168-22 E
1200
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 20 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 62 TASK GROUP 62.7 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Steaming as before on various courses, approaching
New Caledonia, Enroute Espiritu Santo to Noumea,
New Caledonia.
0940 2240 Entered port and anchored in Great Roads, Noumea,
New Caledonia.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 20-23 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 66 TASK GROUP 66.7 TASK UNIT
0000 1300 Anchored as before in Great Roads, Noumea, New
Caledonia.
1318 0218 Underway in accordance with orders of Comsopac
Enroute from Noumea, New Caledonia, to Pearl
Harbor, T.H. Joined off Burlari Passage by
destroyer escorts, USS Sterrett, USS Conyngham,
and USS Mahan. All ships proceeding navy yard for
repairs.
ZONE DESCR. -11 DATE November 23-30 1942
LZT GCT TASK FORCE 66 TASK GROUP 66.7 TASK UNIT
Steaming as before, Enroute from Noumea, New
Caledonia, to Pearl Harbor, T.H. Route to south
and east of Samoan Island, Passing within sight
contact of Tutuila, thence northward direct to
Pearl Harbor. Speed 16.5 knots. No enemy
contacts or unusual incidents during passage.
A.F. FRANCE
Captain, U.S. Navy
ADDEMDA TO WAR DIARY - November 1942.
The action reports referred to in November War Diary have been
classified as SECRET.
Action Report of Night Action, November 12-13 : See U.S.S. SAN
FRANCISCO SECRET Serial 03812. (Missing)
Action Report - U.S.S. JUNEAU, torpedoing of, November 13 : See
U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO SECRET serial 00118b of November 22, 1942.
(missing)
Copies have been previously delivered to CinC Pac.
IN REPLY
REFER TO: U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO
LIST OF OFFICERS AND ENLISTED MEN KILLED AND WOUNED IN TORPEDO PLANE
ENGAGEMT NOVEMBER 12, 1942:
KILLED IN ACTION
NAME RANK OR RATE SIGNAL - SERVICE NO.
HARRIS, Albert Thomas Lieut(jg) DVG USNR
CARLSON, Neil Alvin AMM3c 385 93 81
GATES, William Finnie Sea2c 640 17 33
CHATELL, Harold John Sea1c 311 72 69
EISELE, George Raymond Sea2c 660 19 58
FALGOUT, George Irvin Sea2c 644 28 72
GANDY, Andrew Jackson Jr. Sea2c 640 23 68
GEORGE, Eugene Frank Sea2c 312 01 06
GREER, Charles Fred FO3c(M) 360 06 67
LOWE, Harry James Jr. GM3w 287 44 05
LOY, Jackson Kieth GM3w 300 15 52
POWELL, William Thomas GM2c 279 63 32
SLATER, Frank Olga Sea2c 604 26 57
STOLTE,. Raymond Louis Sea2c 382 46 29
WILLIAMSON, John Leon Sea1c 262 61 38
WOUNDED IN ACTION
BARTA, Vit John FC2c(M) 360 18 20
BRANEL, Burgess Vance Sea2c 654 24 14
BRANDON, Glen Harvey Sea2c 616 59 26
BRIGHAM, Donald Carlisle QM1c 234 17 94
CLARK, Acy Frances Sea 2/c 624 23 98
COVERT, Albert Donald Sea 1/c 279 75 59
FELIX, Len Wilbur Sea 1/c 670 13 97
FINFROCK, Harry Lee Y 2/c 300 15 44
FLISAK, Stanley Anthony Y 2/c 243 65 98
HIJEBSGH, Joe Henry AMM 3/c 393 39 72
IUSE, William Eugene Y 3/c 321 46 61
MC DERMOTT, Joseph Alexander Jr. Y 2/c 258 14 58
MIDYETTE, Lewis Bracy FC2/c 262 37 13
MURPHY, Ralph Ivan Sea 1/c 372 15 98
MYLMI, Robert Vincent FC 3/c(M) 660 04 00
NASH, James Robert Sea 2/c 640 23 99
NICHOLS, Harold Wright FC 3/c (M) 287 41 45
PERRINE, Sheldon Rose Sea2c 614 09 00
SEXTON, Jefferson David Sea1c 382 23 29
SOLANO, Ralph Joseph Jr. Y2c 372 15 53
STARK, Joseph Paul Sea2c 382 57 17
TARPLEY, Lewis (n) GM2c 268 50 09
TERLIZZI, Angelo (n) Sea1c 207 28 47
VIANELLO, Charles Pratt RM2c 376 01 98
WALLACE, John Arnold FC3c(M) 337 48 79
CHOUTEAU, Walter Cerre Lieut (jg) DVG, USNR
LOMBARD, John Archer Lieut (jg) DVG, USNR
WALLACE, John George Lieut (jg) USN
WEEMS, Jeptha Clark Ship's Clerk USN
MISSING IN ACTION
# BONCOSKEY, Ralph Frank Sea1c 300 14 92
# Subsequently rescued.
IN REPLY
REFER TO: U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO
LIST OF OFFICERS AND ENLISTED MEN KILLED AND WOUEDED IN NIGHT SURFACE
BATTLE ENGAGEMENT NOVEMBER 13, 1942:
KILLED IN ACTION
NAME RANK OR RATE SIGNAL - SERVICE NO.
CALLAGHAN, Daniel J. Admiral, Rear 283
LE HARDY, Louis M. Lieut-Comdr. 2667
CUMMINGS, Damon M. Lieut-Comdr. 3866
WINTLE, Jack W. Lieut-Comdr. 4298
YOUNG, Cassin Captain 589
#ROUTER, Mark Hanna Commander 1207
HUBBARD, Joseph Charles Commander 1353
HINE, Thomas Ringle Lieut. 4966
HANNA, John Carlyle Lieut. 7197
VANDERHOOF, Allan Lynne Lieut.(jg) DVG, USNR
EISNER, Jacques Rodney Lieut.(jg) DVG, USNR
CURTIS, Bernard John Lieut.(jg) AVN, USNR
WITTER, Jean Carter Jr. Ensign DVG, USNR
BROWN, Lewis T. Lieut.(jg) DVS, USNR
ADAMS, Arthur Vincent Mamth2c 382 26 86
ANDERSON, Eric John GM3c 316 67 95
BUEREN, Ernest August Sea1c 376 47 22
CHRISMAN, Glen Alva SM3c 412 10 43
CHRONISTER, William Jessie Sea2c 668 74 12
EVANS, Winfred Lorin CQM(AA) 341 93 79
GARRETT, Clifford Taylor Cox. 337 31 57
GASTELUM, William (n) Sea2c 555 55 81
GLASS, Earl Jenks Sea2c 624 38 36
GREEN, George (n) Sea2c 644 25 93
GRUNDER, John Dale Sea1c 321 68 57
HALL, William Stewart Sea2c 660 20 34
HAND, Haro1d Holmes Sea2c 382 17 39
HARBOR, Walter (n) AMM3c 223 79 17
HARMON, Leonard Roy Matt1c 360 04 18
HAUG, Thor Egil F1c 223 82 06
HELVESTON, Otis Lamar Sea2c 604 23 43
HUDSON, Dale Kermit Sea1c 337 28 80
HUGRES, William Hayden SK3c 375 86 62
JACKSON, Charles Allen Matt1c 272 38 30
JAMES, Richeleau Xertes Sea1c 632 00 86
JANOSCO, Nicholas (n) PR3c 328 74 35
JAPP. Edwin Henry Sea2c 660 21 21
JENKINS, Clair Raymond Sea1c 321 46 48
KAUFFMAN, Elmer Henry Cox. 243 74 17
KAZMIERSKI, Edwin Stanley GM2c 243 73 46
KEMPA, George Edward SM3c 368 53 29
KLINE, Floyd Munro Sea2c 670 19 72
LAMB, Cecil Elmer Sea2c 616 51 31
LIBBY, Abe (n) Sea2c 640 23 89
LOCKWOOD, Will Allen Sea1c 279 61 25
MADISON, Herbert (n) OC3c 287 26 57
MARCY, Gorden Wayne Sea2c 654 34 65
MARTIN, Clyde Custer Sea2c 668 44 64
MC BRIDE, Jack Lafayette Sea2c 316 66 95
MC KERNAN, Louis Frank SF1c 341 72 61
MC NEIL, William Claude Sea2c 300 39 61
NICHOLS, John Richard Sea1c 372 25 31
PASTOR, JOSEPH John Sea2c 668 54 13
PERKINS, Robert Paul Sea1c 287 50 40
RAY, Clarence Wendell Sea1c 321 74 37
ROSSON, George Bobo Y2c 616 01 92
SCBODER, Raymond Walter GM1c 321 22 21
SLOUGH, Thomas Glenn Sea1c 356 18 17
SPANGENBERG, Kenneth Jerome GM3c 243 75 65
STEELE, Roy Lerson Jr. Sea2c 640 19 05
STONE, Wesley Howard GM3c 212 58 53
BZYMANSKI, Edward Robert SF2c 346 72 73
TAYLOR, Emmett Shaw CM3c 268 48 12
TUCKER, Francis Joseph Cox 201 76 41
TURNER, Jack Monroe Cox 295 68 93
WAGNER, Walter John Sea2c 316 83 42
WERTEEN, Edwin Loid GM3c 342 26 17
WILKINS, Wilbur Jackson Jr. F2c 604 26 08
WISENBERGER, Paul Grey F2c 612 08 66
ZAIGER, Albert Charles CM3c 620 04 88
KLATT, George Staat Plt.Sgt. 222792 USMC
DALTON, Charles Milton Corporal 307004 USMC
BERRAY, James E. Pfc 340536 USMC
BURDETTE, Snyder Pfc 311827 USMC
RITCHIE, George Pfc 347714 USMC
ST. JOHN, Earl J. Pfc 350056 USMC
SAMUELSON, Allen B. Pvt. 357426 USMC
# Seriously wounded in action of November 12th.
MISSING IN ACTION
# THOLUPSON, Wilbert Lee Lieut.(jg) CVS, USNR
BOCKOVER, Harvey Allen Sea2c 664 08 87
# HARDY, Wendell Richard GM3c 300 15 68
# LEWIS, Robert Jerd Sea1c 337 50 15
LUNDIE, JACK LEROY Cox 265 93 55
QUICK, Ray Wilbur F3c 668 43 79
WAIJLEN Samuel Elmer Sea1c 262 60 03
## Subsequently rescued
WOUNDED IN ACTION
O'BEIRNE, Emmett Lieut-Comdr. 3703
ARISON, Rae Emmett Commander 1812
MC CANDLESS B. Lieut-Comdr. 4265
WESTIN, Howard Sevens Lieut. 5177
KERKERING, Stanley William Lieut. 6556
SIMMONS, Arthur Edwin Lieut.(jg) AVN,USNR
ISBELL, Harold Austin Carpenter USN
BAKER, Arthur Oliver Sea2c . 654 24 44
BAUER, Carl Raymond Sea2c 618 21 75
BODIKEY, Romualdo (n) OC1c 497 91 20
BONDSTEEL, Lynford Lawrence PHM3e 311 82 12
BURRIS, William Addison Sea2c 644 44 34
CAMP, James Ernest Sea2c 630 17 13
CONKLIN, Elmer James Sea1c 316 68 18
DAWSON, Wesley Harrison Sea2c 660 20 63
EDWARDS, Richard Marion Sea1c 356 54 84
EVES, Stephen Corbett Sea2c 660 20 52
FAULKNER, Cecil Thedore Sea2c 604 43 70
FAUST, Albert Charles RM2c 404 90 99
GILPIN, Edgar Gordon Sea2c 300 81 83
GOHN, James Calvin Sea2c 633 13 02
GOWENS, Earl Alferd F3c 628 26 09
GRAHAM, Ralph Junior Sea1c 316 67 83
HALL, Oscar Smith Sea2c 624 40 28
HAMMACK, James Lloyd Sea1c 346 93 70
HANNAH, Hoyt "N" Cox 346 71 34
HARSH, Donald Edward Sea2c 612 22 00
HEAD, Lester Curt BM1c 272 21 78
HILIMAN, Ralph Albert Cox 316 67 76
HOLBROOK, Heber "A" PHM3c 368 61 50
JAMES, Carrol Woodfin Sea1c 360 39 11
KIEFER, Harry Joseph Sea1c 243 73 54
KING, John William Jr. Sea2c 274 64 44
KINNEY, Charles Leonard Cox 342 27 66
KLEE, Walter Donald GM2c 328 74 15
KRAUSE, Lloyd Stanley Sea1c 316 66 83
LASSEN, Henry (n) Sea2c 372 40 59
LEVY, Harold Bertrum Sea1c 342 27 48
LEWIS, Alvin Jesse Sea1c 223 89 56
MARLEY, Thomas Keith Cox 262 28 45
MIKULENCAK, Joseph Frank Sea2c 624 03 61
MORTIMER, Melvin Wayne F3c 399 56 76
MURPHY, George Delmas Jr. Sea1c 376 06 20
MYHRE, Leonard Marvin Sea2c 660 20 31
NIEMEIER, Walter Henry EM2c 321 39 24
OLSON, Manfred. Chester F2c 393 44 04
PETERSON, Robert George CGM(AA) 320 85 85
PHILLIPS, Robert (n) Sea2c 668 17 85
POTTER, Joseph Skinner Jr. EM3c 382 10 83
REYNOLDS, William Dwain F2c 368 67 29
RISLAND, Oscar Stanley Sea2c 638 48 91
ROBB, Semuel Kelly Cox 385 79 35
SEHRT, Glann Francis Sea2c 662 51 53
SETTLE, Carl Dean Sea2c 337 49 04
SMITH, Samuel Robert Cox 370 08 39
SPENCER, Jimmie Leon Sea2c 670 17 01
ST GEORGE, Merlyn Joseph Sea1c 328 82 58
STORCK, Emory Thompson Sea1c 266 16 48
STORY Henry Cleve Sea2c 670 17 10
TUPPER, Theodore (n) Jr. FM3c 223 83 77
VALACH, Elemil (n) CGM(AA) 212 39 37
VOISINET, Robert Keen SM3c 234 26 87
WARD, Harold Emanuel MAtt2c 223 64 44
WHITE, WILLIAM David Sea2c 640 19 29
WILDER, James Richard SF3c 316 63 42
BEAN, Harold Ray Sk3C 356 50 33
GRACE, Elwood Grant Jr. F3c 382 96 33
HANNA, Julius Andy Sea1c 321 60 03
HOGAN, Raymond Henry Sea1c 660 23 09
ROBINSON, Harold Payne GM1c 268 20 24
SNELL, Ralph Howard Cox 376 01 19
STODGHILL, James Edward Cox 268 49 90
TROOP, Charles Jr. Sea1c 287 51 33
LEE, Benjamin G. First Sergeant 241740 USMC
EGAN, John Maurice Francis Sergeant 269130 USMC
HOPSON, Miles W. Corporal 302754 USMC
MEALER, Hubert R. Corporal 306102 USMC
RAMSY, Walter J. Jr. Corporal 298707 USMC
LARGE, Charles J. FLDCK 300824 USMC
MAELER, Carl W. Pfc 311471 USMC
MC CARSTLE, Howard P. Jr. Pfc 324043 USMC
POORE Forrest F. Pfc 307370 USMC
SPENCER, Clifford C. Pfc 336891 USMC
AGUILAR, Joe M. Sergeant 298737 USMC
MEDLIN, Otho H. Corporal 292832 USMC
CARRELL, Robert R. Pfc 311748 USMC
ROGERS, Harold W. Pfc 314306 USMC
MIDDLESWORTH, Malbert FM1c 307943 USMC
CARLSON, Oscar Gunnery Sgt. 235122 USMC
HILLAS, Robert Alexander Jr. Ensign DVS, USNR
ISBELL, Harold Austin Carpenter USN
AVALOS, Christopher (n) Sea1c 618 21 25
CHRISTENSEN, Jess Willard BM2c 371 91 05
DE BENEDETTI, Albert (n) Sea2c 393 59 20
GILGREASE William Eugene Sea2c 360 51 34
HOLMQUIST Carl Eric CMM(PA) 238 33 41
JENKINS, Elmer Leslie Jr. Sea2c 291 64 50
KEPPLER, Reinhardt John BM1c 385 67 73
LUKENS, Edward Alan Sea1c 243 78 92
NICKSON, Joseph Francis BM2c 204 31 87
PETERSON, John William Dean GM3c 328 55 36
REYNOLDS, Jesse (n) Jr. BM2c 311 44 47
VANCE "C" "R" BM2c 376 01 03
WHITE, Arnold Earl RDM3c 356 54 65
WUBKER, Virgil Max Sea1c 321 43 82
IN REPLY
REFER TO: U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO
ENLISTED MAN KILLED IN ACTION SOLOMON ISLAND NOVEMBER 18, 1942:
NAME RATE SERVICE NO.
* GANNO, Otis Charles ARM2c 274 44 70
* Killed in crash of PBY patrol on November 18, 1942, near Tulagi,
Solomon Island. Plane in which GANNON was a passenger crashed on
take-off. Body recovered and buried in grave #80, U.S. Navy -
U.S. Marine Corps Cemetery, #1 White Beach.
ACTION REPORT
USS SAN FRANCISCO CA-38
SERIAL 0411 16 NOVEMBER 1942
AIR ATTACK OFF LUNGA POINT, GUADALCANAL, 12 NOVEMBER
1942, REPORT OF.
REPORT OF ACTING C.O. LCDR. H. E. SCHONLAND COVERING ACTION
AT 1408 DURING JAPANESE AIR ATTACK ON TASK FORCE 67, OFF
LUNGA POINT, GUADALCANAL. A DAMAGED TORPEDO PLANE APPEARED
TO DELIBERATELY CRASH THE AFTER SUPER STRUCTUR, CAUSING
EXTENSIVE DAMAGE AND 45 CASUALTIES.
44804
In Reply
Refer To: U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO
CA38/A16-3.
Serial ts/133 November 16, 1942.
From: The Commanding Officer.
To : The Commander in Chief, U. S. PACIFIC FLEET.
Via : (1) The Commander Task Force SIXTY-SEVEN,
(Rear Admiral R. K. Turner).
(2) The Commander South Pacific Area and
South Pacific Force.
Subject: Action Report - Air Attack, November 12, 1942.
1. The following report is made of repulse of an air attack
against Task Force 67 off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal, in the Solomons
during the afternoon of November 12, 1942.
2. Task Force 67 formed special anti-aircraft disposition
about 1317 on orders of Commander Task Force 67. Transports (6) were
formed in two columns, in line of divisions, axis 340, course 340,
speed 10 knots, with SAN FRANCISCO stationed 1000 yards on the axis
ahead of the transports. Speed was later increased to 14 knots and the
disposition maneuvered by Commander Task Force 67 off Lunga Point. SAN
FRANCISCO generally adhered to the station assigned but during the
attack increased speed to 25 knots (for brief intervals) and
maneuvered radically to avoid torpedoes and to enable the main and
anti-aircraft batteries to fire at torpedo planes.
3. Japanese air attack group has been estimated to have
comprised 21 torpedo planes (twin engine land planes), 9 Zero fitters,
and some dive bombers totaling about 52 planes, Except for one Zero
fighter which was seen to plummet down through the clouds, only
torpedo planes were seen by this ship. Between 19 and 21 of them were
counted.
4. Torpedo planes approached undetected (or at least
unreported) down the north coast of Florida Island, and came south
going over Florida Island. They fanned out as they came over and.
appeared to break up into two groups, one approaching the formation
from the southeast, the other from the northeast. A.A. Control
estimates their speed at 170 knots. Planes flew very low, literally
skimming the water (less than 50 feet) and used the dark background of
Florida and Tulagi Islands to reduce silhouette effect against the
sky. Approach formation appeared to be excellent, planes fanning out
from three plane sections.
5. Fire was commenced at 1408 with the 5" battery. The first
bursts were on and the plane under fire crashed immediately. Salvos
were fired by the main battery at ranges between 5000 and 2000 yards.
Splashes from 8" A.P. projectiles were very effective in causing
planes to make radical maneuvers. Our A.A. fire shot down one plane,
damaged two planes and heavily hit the plane which crashed into
Control Aft.
6. One torpedo passed ahead of this ship and was avoided by
maneuvering. One passed forward long the starboard side. One torpedo
was soon to ricochet upwards at an angle of about 45 degrees on
striking the water and nearly torpedoed the plane that dropped it. It
went end over end several times and then sank. One or two were seen to
porpoise during the early part of the run but apparently took their
depth and ran properly. One erratic run (circular) was noted. No hits
were registered on any ships. Wakes were very distinct, more by
apparent ripples on the surface of the water than by bubbles.
7. At 1416 this ship was individually attacked by an already
damaged torpedo plane which dropped its torpedo on the starboard
quarter (torpedo passed alongside to starboard) and plane then
appeared to deliberately crash the after superstructure of this ship.
Plane's right wing struck Control Aft about 170 relative, swung around
into that structure, and plunged over tile port side into the sea
where it crashed and burned. Considerable damage and intense fires
were caused by this crash and the following personnel casualties
occurred.
Killed or Died Wounded
of Injuries. (Mostly Burned) Missing
Officers 1 4 0
Enlisted 14 25 1
Control Aft was demolished, Battle two burned out, and the after
A.A. Director and After Fox Cast Radar were put out of commission.
Three 20 mm. mounts were demolished. Wounded personnel were
transferred to U.S.S. PRESIDENT JACKSON, with the exception of
Commander Grouter who wished to remain aboard ship so that he could be
returned to duty in a minimum time. Commanfer Grouter's gallantry was
ill-rewarded, in that he suffered additional injuries when a shell
exploded in his cabin during the subsequent night action resulting in
his death The loss of personnel and disabling of equipment was most
keenly felt by this vessel in the following engagement.
8. Ammunition expended:
8" - 15 rounds
5" - 180 rounds
1.1" - 160 rounds (approximately).
20mm. - 1200 rounds (approximately).
9. Name plate from the plane which crashed this ship was
obtained and is forwarded separately via airmail to Officer in Charge,
Intelligence Center, Pacific Ocean Area, (Commandant 14th Naval
District). Plane appears to have been a Mitsubishi 97 twin engine
landplane, painted dark.
10. During the action, a submarine was seen on the surface in
the vicinity of Cape Esperance-Savo Island, with one Japanese torpedo
plane flying low in the vicinity. ComTaskGroup 67.4 was notified and
the U.S .S. SHAW was dispatched by him to destroy the submarine, and
reports reaching this indicate that she destroyed this submarine by
gunfire on surface.
11. At 1505 radio Guadalcanal reported all clear shortly
thereafter transports moved in to resume unloading. This ship observed
at least eight torpedo planes destroyed, including one that was
damaged by this ship but apparently getting away when it was destroyed
by a fighter (F4F4) . This believed to be only a fraction of the
enemy's losses.
12. It is desired to mention the remarkable fire
discipline and courage of the crews of the 20 mm. guns on the
gallery around Control Aft who were firing on the approaching
torpedo plane and who continued to fire into it with all their
guns until they were wiped out by the plane's actually flying
into them. They met their deaths without flinching and in a
manner which has been an inspiration to us all.
H. E. SCHONLAND,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy.
Commanding.
Copies to:
CINCPAC (Original plus 1.)
COMPAC
COMTASKFOR 67 (Rear Admiral Turner)
WAR DIARY
File No.
AMPHIBIOUS FORCE
E25/ A16-3(3) SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
Office of the Commander
Serial: TS/133
U.S.S. McCAWLEY, Flagship,
November 17, 1942
First endorsement to
CO SAN FRANCISCO Ltr.
of November 16, 1942.
From: Commander Task Force SIXTY SEVEN.
To : Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Via : Commander South Pacific Force.
Subject: Action Report - Air Attack, November 12, 1942.
1. Forwarded
R. K. TURNER,
COMSOPAC FILE
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
A16/(11) of the UNITED STATES PACIFIC FLEET
Headquarters of the Commander
Serial TS/133
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to:
C.O. SAN FRANISCO ltr.
CA38/A16-3/ Ser. 0411
of November 16, 1942.
From: The Commander South Pacific Area and South Pacific
Force.
To : The Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Subject: Action Report - Air Attack, November 12, 1942.
1. Forwarded.
W. F. HALSEY
Information on the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO CA-38
DICTIONARY OF FIGHTING SHIPS
History of the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO CA-38
New Orleans Class
CA-Heavy Cruisers
CA-32 NEW ORLEANS
CA-36 MINNEAPOLIS
CA-37 TUSCALOOSA
CA-38 SAN FRANCISCO
Completed:
1934
Displacement (tons):
9,950 (stand)
13,000 (Mean war service)
Length (oa):
588'
Beam:
60'
Draft (max):
25'
Armament (max auth):
9 8"/55
8 5"/25 DP
6 40 mm quads
26-28 20 mm (18 on #32)
Propulsion:
Speed:
30 knots (max)
Max. Cruising radius:
3,500 miles @ 25 knots
7,600 miles @ 15 knots
Horsepower:
107,000 (shaft)
Drive:
4 screws
geared turbine
Fuel:
2,256 tons oil (max)
Aircraft:
2 SC-1
Remarks:
The NEW ORLEANS Class represents a turning point in American cruiser design development,
particularly with respects to armor and underwater protection. The light surface unit pattern
of armoring and subdivision of earlier cruisers is dropped in favor of a system more analogous
to that of modern capital ships, thus making these and all succeeding heavy cruisers comparable
to the armored cruisers of the pre-dreadnought battleship era. Every weight-saving expedient
was employed throughout the ship's structure to achieve this within the then existing rigid
treaty displacement limitations. Other innovations in these cruisers included the replacement
of heavy tripod masts by tower bridges and pole mast, and the adoption of a raked stem for the
clipper bow of earlier units. Aircraft hangers were relocated in the after superstructure and
the upper deck extended aft to the midships section. A new design turret, with separate gun ports,
was also introduced.
Structural wartime alterations centered around the bridge, resulting in the elimination of
bridge wings and conning tower, and the fitting of an open "monkey island" on the top of the bridge.
One of the two aircraft and boat handling cranes was also suppressed.
War losses included the:
CA-34 ASTORIA
CA-39 QUINCY
CA-44 VINCENNES
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