U.S.S. HUGHES DD-410 War Dairy November 1942



                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

                         C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L

    From:               Commanding Officer, U.S.S. HUGHES (410)

    To  :               The CHIEF OF Naval Operations.
                        (Office of Naval Records and Library).

                                          

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 1, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SEVENTEEN - Rear Admiral MURRAY.
    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTY ONE - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    Task force 16 and 17 operating as Task Force SIXTY-ONE.

    In company with Task Force SEVENTEEN:- USS PENSACOLA, NORTHAMPTON,
    JUNEAU, SAN DIEGO, MORRIS, BARTON, ANDERSON, MUSTIN, RUSSELL.

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D.J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 2, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SEVENTEEN - Rear Admiral MURRAY.
    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTY ONE - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    Task force 16 and 17 operating as Task Force SIXTY-ONE.

    In company with Task Force SEVENTEEN:- USS PENSACOLA, NORTHAMPTON,
    JUNEAU, SAN DIEGO, MORRIS, BARTON, ANDERSON, MUSTIN, RUSSELL.

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D.J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 3, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SEVENTEEN - Rear Admiral MURRAY.
    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTY ONE - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    Task force 16 and 17 operating as Task Force SIXTY-ONE.

    In company with Task Force SEVENTEEN:- USS PENSACOLA, NORTHAMPTON,
    JUNEAU, SAN DIEGO, MORRIS, BARTON, ANDERSON, MUSTIN, RUSSELL.

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D.J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.    

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 4, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SEVENTEEN - Rear Admiral MURRAY.
    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTY ONE - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    Task force 16 and 17 operating as Task Force SIXTY-ONE.

    In company with Task Force SEVENTEEN:- USS PENSACOLA, NORTHAMPTON,
    JUNEAU, SAN DIEGO, MORRIS, BARTON, ANDERSON, MUSTIN, RUSSELL.

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D.J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding. 

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 5, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SEVENTEEN - Rear Admiral MURRAY.
    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTY ONE - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    Task force 16 and 17 operating as Task Force SIXTY-ONE.

    In company with Task Force SEVENTEEN:- USS PENSACOLA, NORTHAMPTON,
    JUNEAU, SAN DIEGO, MORRIS, BARTON, ANDERSON, MUSTIN, RUSSELL.

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D.J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 6, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SEVENTEEN - Rear Admiral MURRAY.
    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTY ONE - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SEVENTEEN: USS PENSACOLA, NORTHAMPTON, JUNEAU, 
    SAN DIEGO, MORRIS, BARTON, ANDERSON, MUSTIN, RUSSELL. HUGHES,
    Less HORNET.

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D.J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 7, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    Operating under Comdesron TWO Secret Operation Order 8-42
    of November, 1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT

                   Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.
    2320   1020    Got underway to proceed to area off AMEDEE
                   LIGHT to maintain anti-submarine patrol.
    Nov.7 - GCT
    0059   1159    Arrived on patrolling station.
    10000  1200    Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT.
    0900   2000    Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT.

                   Patrolling on various courses at speed 14
                   Knots; no course and speed made good.


                                          Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT,
                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 8, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    Operating under Comdesron TWO Secret Operation Order 8-42
    of November, 1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT
   
                   Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT, NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

    2100   0800    Position: Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT.
    November 8 - GCT
    0100   1200    Position: Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT.
           1312    Relieved of patrol duty.  Proceeding to
                   NOUMEA HARBOR, NEW CALEDONIA.
    0407   1507    Anchored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                   No course and speed made good.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 9, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    Operating under Port Director Noumea Visual dispatch of 
    November 9, 1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT
   
                   Anchored Noumea, NEW CALEDONIA.
    0100   1200    Received word of the torpedoing of the 
                   EDGAR ALLEN POE seventy miles out from
                   AMEDEE LIGHT.
    1203   1303    Got underway proceeding out of Noumea,
                   New Caledonia Harbor.
    1240   1340    Searched for submarine in vicinity of Little
                   Entrance Noumea Harbor.
    1315   1415    In accordance with Port Director dispatch
                   proceeding to torpedoed ship.
    1707   1807    Joined USS MORRIS, RUSSELL and a P.C. boat
                   in anti-submarine screen for EDGAR ALLEN POE
                   and towing P.C. boat.
    1900   2000    Position: Lat. 23-44.5 S., Long. 166-42.0 E. 

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 10, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    Operating under Port Director Noumea Visual dispatch of 
    November 9, 1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT
   
                   Maintaining anti-submarine screen for EDGAR 
                   ALLEN POE and P.C. boat.
    2100   0800    Position: Lat. 23-08.0 S., Long. 166-35.8 E.
    Nov. 10 - GCT
    0100   0800    Position: Lat. 22-46.3 S., Long. 166-29.2 E.
    0403   1503    Arrived at AMEDEE ISLAND LIGHT and commenced
                   patrolling outside harbor entrance.
    0635   1735    Relieved destroyer on harbor entrance patrol
                   duty in accordance with Comdesron TWO secret
                   operation order 8-42
    0700   1800    Position: Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT.

                   No course and speed made good.
  
                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT.
                                          Noumea, New Caledonia,
                                          November 11, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    Operating under Comdesron TWO secret operation order 8-42 of NOV.

    GCT   LWT/LCT
   
                   Patrolling off AMEDEE LIGHT, NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

    2310   1010    Relieved of patrol duty and proceeding into
                   Noumea Harbor.
    Nov. 11 - GCT
    0044   1144    Moored Noumea, New Caledonia.
                   Word was received that Task Force SIXTEEN
                   would proceed to Lat. 14-00.0 S., Long.
                   161-30 E., so as to strike enemy in the area
                   of GUADALCANAL.
    0212   1312    Underway in company with Task Force SIXTEEN.
    0323   1423    Task Force formed cruising disposition ONE.
                   Took station as anti-submarine screen for USS
                   NORTHAMPTON.
    0900   2000    Position: Lat. 22-31.8 S., Long. 165-49.3 E.

                   Course and speed made good: NONE.     

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          
                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 12, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 dispatch 0555 of Nov. 11, 1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT
   
                   Maintaining station as anti-submarine screen for
                   U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON.
    1855   0655    Carrier launched aircraft.
    2000   0800    Position: Lat. 20-17.0 S., Long. 162-46.5 E.
    Nov. 12 - GCT
    0000   1200    Position: Lat. 19-50.0 S., Long. 162-40.0 E.
    0606   1806    Carrier recovered aircraft.
    0800   2000    Position: Lat. 17-56.0 S., Long. 161-46.5 E.
     
                   Course 305°True;  Speed 10 knots.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          
                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 13, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 visual dispatch 0230 of Nov.13, 1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT

                   Maintaining station as anti-submarine screen for
                   USS NORTHAMPTON.
    1912   0512    All hands to general quarters.
    1930   0530    Set Condition of Readiness ONE.
    1806   0606    Carrier launched aircraft.
    1840   0640    USS MORRIS joined the formation.
    2000   0800    Position: Lat. 14-21.2 S., Long. 161-15.5 E.
    2043   0843    USS PENSACOLA, PRESTON, GWIN, joined the formation
    2340   1140    One Japanese sea plane shot down by carrier fighters
    Nov.13 - GCT
    0000   1200    Position: Lat. 13-55.4 S., Long. 161-36.0 E.
    0423   1823    Carrier recovered aircraft.  During the days
                   operation ENTERPRISE planes attacked enemy
                   transports off NEW GEORGIA ISLAND then made 
                   landing at GUADALCANAL.
    0719   1919    USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA, WALKE, PRESTON,
                   GWIN, and BENHAM left on assigned duty.  Took
                   Station on port bow of carrier.
           2000    Position: Lat. 14-27.5 S., Long. 161-57.5 E.
           2005    
    
                   Course 349°True;  Speed 15.5 knots.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          
                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 14, 1942.
										  
                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    Operating in company with USS ENTERPRISE, ANDERSON,
    USS NORTHAMPTON, PENSACOLA, SAN DIEGO, CLARK, MORRIS, RUSSELL,

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 -visual dispatch 0230 of Nov.13,1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT

                   Maintaining station on port bow of USS NORTHAMPTON.
    1900   0700    Carrier launched aircraft.
    2000   0800    Lat. 12-55.5 S., Long. 159-02.5 E.
    2020   0820    Group of unidentified planes were reported
                   approaching from the North.  Held general quarters.
                   All ships formed close AA screen on carrier.
    Nov. 14 - GCT
    0000   1200    Position: Lat. 12-48.0 S., Long. 159-7.5 E.
    0122   1322    Formed normal cruising disposition.  Secured 
                   from general quarters. Plane identified as friendly.
    0215   1415    Carrier received aircraft.
    0800   2000    Position: Lat. 14-46.5 S., Long. 158-50.5 E.

                   Course 298° True;  Speed 8 knots.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 15, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    In company with USS ENTERPRISE, NORTHAMPTON, PENSACOLA, 
    SAN DIEGO, CLARK, MORRIS, RUSSELL and ANDERSON.

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 visual dispatch 0230 of Nov.13,1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT

                   Maintaining station on starboard bow of USS
                   NORTHAMPTON.

    1820   0620    Carrier launched aircraft.
    2000   0800    Position: Lat. 17-11.5 S., Long. 159-29.0 E.
    Nov.16 - GCT
    0000   1200    Position: Lat. 17-50.0 S., Long. 160-06.2 E.
    0430   1630    USS NORHTAMPTON, PENSACOLA, MORRIS, RUSSELL,
                   ANDERSON, left formation on special assignment.
    0800   2000    Position: Lat. 12-18.0 S., Long. 161-48.0 E.  

                   Course 170° True;  Speed 12.4 knots.  

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 16, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    In company with USS ENTERPRISE, SAN DIEGO, CLARK.

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 visual dispatch 0230 of Nov.13,1942.

    GCT   LWT/LCT
           
                   Maintaining station in anti-submarine screen
                   For USS ENTERPRISE.

    1747   0547    Carrier launched aircraft.
    2000   0800    Position: Lat. 21-42.0 S., Long. 164-45.0 E.
    Nov.16-GCT 
    0100   1200    Position: Lat. 22-21.0 S., Long. 165-46.0 E.
    0152   1252    Entered NOUMEA HAROBR, NEW CALEDONIA.
    0446   1546    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                   Course 130°True;  Speed 17.4 Knots.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia.
                                          November 17, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    In company with USS ENTERPRISE, SAN DIEGO, CLARK.

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 visual dispatch 0230 of Nov.13,1942.

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia.
                                          November 18, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 - Rear Admiral KINCAID.

    TASK FORCE SIXTEEN ORGANIZATION:

    Comtaskfor SIXTEEN - USS ENTERPRISE.
    Batdiv SIX         - Rear Admiral LEE.
                         USS WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA.
    Cruisers           - USS NORTHAMPTON, SAN DIEGO.
    Desron TWO         - USS MORRIS, HUGHES, ANDERSON, RUSSELL,
                         MUSTIN, BENHAM, ELLET, WALKE, CALRK.

    In company with USS ENTERPRISE, SAN DIEGO, CLARK.

    Operating under Comtaskfor 16 visual dispatch 0230 of Nov.13,1942.

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia.
                                          November 19, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    In accordance with Comtaskfor 62 dispatch 2224 of 19 Nov., 1942 
    HUGHES attched to Comtaskunit 62.4.3 for duty.

    TASK FORCE ORGANIZATION: (TASK UNIT 62.4.3)

    TRANSPORT GROUP:           ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)
    USS ALCHIBA                USS HUGHES
                               USS LARDNER

    Moored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia.
                                          November 20, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK UNIT 62.4.3 ORGANIZATION:

    TRANSPORT GROUP:           ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)
    USS ALCHIBA                USS HUGHES
                               USS LARDNER

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No.
    2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    Anchored NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Noumea, New Caledonia.
                                          November 21, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK FORCE ORGANIZATION (TASK UNIT 62.4.3):

    TRANSPORT GROUP:           ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)
    USS ALCHIBA                USS HUGHES
                               USS LARDNER

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No.
    2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT
                   Anchored Noumea, New Caledonia.
    1827   0537    Underway in company with Task Unit 62.4.3 proceeding
                   on assigned duty (TS-133).
    Nov.21 - GCT
    0100   1200    Position: Lat. 22-18.1 S., Long. 165-57.0 E.
    0900   2000    Position: Lat. 21-41.5 S., Long. 164-47.5 E.

                   No course and speed made good.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 22, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK FORCE ORGANIZATION:
    TASK UNIT 62.4.3

    TRANSPORT GROUP:           ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)
    USS ALCHIBA                USS HUGHES
                               USS LARDNER

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No.
    2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT
                   Maintaining station in anti-submarine screen for
                   transports.

    2100   0800    Position: Lat. 20-16.0 S., Long. 163-18.5 E.
    Nov. 22 - GCT
    0100   1200    Position: Lat. 19-54.4 S., Long. 162-50.6 E.
    0900   2000    Position: Lat. 18-41.3 S., Long. 162-11.5 E.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 23, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK FORCE ORGANIZATION - TASK UNIT 62.4.3:

    TRANSPORT GROUP:           ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)
    USS ALCHIBA                USS HUGHES
                               USS LARDNER

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No.
    2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT
                   Maintaining station in anti-submarine 
                   screen for transports.

    2100   0800    Position: Lat. 16-49.0 S., Long. 162-12.0 E.
    0100   1200    Position: Lat. 16-05.0 S., Long. 162-13.0 E.
    0900   2000    Position: Lat. 14-52.0 S., Long. 162-15.5 E.

                   Course:  351° True    Speed: 9.8 knots.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 24, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK FORCE ORGANIZATION - TASK UNIT 62.4.3:

    TRANSPORT GROUP:           ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)
    USS ALCHIBA                USS HUGHES
                               USS LARDNER

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No.
    2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT
                   Maintaining station in anti-submarine 
                   screen for transports.

    2100   0800    Position: Lat. 13-15.0 S., Long. 163-16.0 E.
    0100   1200    Position: Lat. 12-43.5 S., Long. 163-09.0 E.
    0900   2000    Position: Lat. 11-44.0 S., Long. 163-46.5 E.

                   Course:  015° True    Speed: 9 knots.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 25, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK FORCE ORGANIZATION - TASK UNIT 62.4.3:

    TRANSPORT GROUP:           ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)
    USS ALCHIBA                USS HUGHES
                               USS LARDNER

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No.
    2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT
                   Maintaining station in anti-submarine 
                   screen for transports.

    2100   0800    Position: Lat. 10-16.0 S., Long. 162-55.0 E.
    0100   1200    Position: Lat. 10-09.8 S., Long. 162-18.8 E.
    0900   2000    Position: Lat.  9-42.7 S., Long. 161-16.0 E.
    1100   2200    Sighted two or more friendly ships.

                   Course:343° True    Speed: 7 knots.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Guadalcanal Area,
                                          November 26, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK FORCE ORGANIZATION - TASK UNIT 62.4.3:

    TRANSPORT GROUP:           ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)
    USS ALCHIBA                USS HUGHES
                               USS LARDNER

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No.
    2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT
                   Maintaining station in anti-submarine 
                   screen for transports.

    1633   0333    Received a message from GUADALCANAL, "Enemy planes
                   overhead".  All hands to General Quarters.
                   Searchlights and anti-aircraft fire were observed
                   from landing field on Guadalcanal.
    1800   0500    BARNETT anchored near LUNGA POINT, GUADALCANAL
                   and destroyers commenced patrolling area as anti-
                   submarine screen.  ALCHIBA proceeding to TULAGI
                   to unload in company with LARDNER.
    1930   0630    Secured from General Quarters.
    2100   0800    Position: Patrolling off LUNGA POINT, GUADALCANAL.
    2105   0805    MC KEAN and MANLEY joined anti-submarine patrol
                   for transports at GUADALCANAL.
    0100   1200    Position: Patrolling off LUNGA POINT, GUADALCANAL.
    0600   1700    BARNETT underway proceeding to TULAGI HARBOR.
                   Destroyers formed anti-submarine screen for BARNETT.
    0745   1845    Anchored TULAGI HARBOR, FLORIDA ISLAND.
    0900   2000    Position: Anchored TULAGI HARBOR, FLORIDA ISLAND.

                   No course and speed made good.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Guadalcanal Area,
                                          November 27, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK UNIT 62.4.3 ORGANIZATION        ESCORT:
    TRANSPORT GROUP:                     USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)           
    USS BARNETT                          USS HUGHES                
    USS ALCHIBA                          USS LARDNER              
                                         USS MC KEAN
                                         USS MANLEY

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No. 2-42 
    of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT

                   Anchored TULAGI HARBOR, FLORIDA ISLAND.

    1659   0359    Underway in company with USS BARNETT, ALCHIBA,
                   LAMSON, HUGHES, LARDNER, MC KEAN and MANLEY 
                   Proceeding to LUNGA POINT, GUADALCANAL.
    1844   0544    Arrived LUNGA POINT, commenced anti-submarine screen
                   for transports as they unloaded.
    2100   0800    Patrolling off LUNGA POINT.
    0600   1700    Proceeding to TULAGI HARBOR, FLORIDA ISLAND.  Main-
                   taining anti-submarine screen for transports.
    0742   1842    Anchored TULAGI HARBOR, FLORIDA ISLAND.  USS LARDNER
                   and LAMSON in company with PT boats patrolling
                   GUADALCANAL - TULAGI AREA as word was received to
                   Expect an enemy attack.

                   No course and speed made good.
                   
                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Guadalcanal Area,
                                          November 28, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    TASK UNIT 62.4.3 ORGANIZATION:
    TRANSPORT GROUP:                     ESCORT:
    USS BARNETT                          USS LAMSON (Comdr. ABERCROMIE)           
    USS ALCHIBA                          USS HUGHES                
                                         USS LARDNER              

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No. 2-42 
    of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT
                   Anchored TULAGI HARBOR, FLORIDA ISLAND.
    1652   0352    Underway proceeding to LUNG POINT, GUADALCANAL.
    1842   0542    Arrived at LUNGA POINT and commenced anti-submarine
                   patrol for USS BARNETT and ALCHIBA in company with
                   USS LARDNER, LAMSON, MANLEY and MC KEAN.
    1915   0615    USS ALCHIBA torpedoed on port bow by Japanese 
                   submarine.  ALCHIBA listing a few degrees to port 
                   and a fire was started in her forward hold, only two
                   men injured.  A search was made for the submarine 
                   but no contact was made.  ALCHIBA beached and the 
                   BARNETT got underway.  
    2315   0815    Formed anti=submarine screen for USS BARNETT in 
                   company with USS MANLEY proceeding to ESPIRITU 
                   SANTO, NEW HEBRIDES ISLANDS.
    0100   1200    Position: Lat. 09-28.5 S., Long. 160-54.2 E.
    0702   1802    Passed a U.S. Convoy of three transports, one cargo 
                   ship and four destroyers proceeding to GUADALCANAL.
    0900   2000    Position: Lat. 10-22.0 S., Long. 162-34.0 E.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 29, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    In company with USS BARNETT and MANLEY.              

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan No. 
    2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT

                   Maintaining station in anti-submarine screen
                   For BARNETT.

    2100   0800    Position: Lat. 11-52.0 S., Long. 164-40.0 E.
    0100   1200    Position: Lat. 12-32.2 S., Long. 165-14.9 E.
    0900   2000    Position: Lat. 13-54.0 S., Long. 166-30.0 E.

                   Course 117 and 132° T.     Speed 13.7 knots.

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

                                          Southwest Pacific,
                                          November 30, 1942.

                            W-A-R D-I-A-R-Y

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3. - Captain C.A. BAILEY.

    In company with USS BARNETT and MANLEY.              

    Operating under Comtaskunit 62.4.3 secret operation plan 
    No. 2-42 of Nov. 20, 1942.

    GCT    LCT/LWT

                   Maintaining station in anti-submarine screen
                   For BARNETT.
    1915   0615    Formed column with HUGHES and MANLEY astern of
                   BARNETT entering SEGOND CHANNEL, ESPIRITU SANTO,
                   MEW HEBRIDES ISLANDS.
    2021   0721    Moored SEGOND CHANNEL, ESPIRITU SANTO.
    0926   2026    In accordance with Comsopac dispatch 0002 of
                   November 30, 1942, got underway to proceed
                   to NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.

                   Course: 133 and 180° True.      Speed 13/5 knots. 

                                      D. J. RAMSEY,               
                                      Commander, USN.,
                                      Commanding.   

Information on the U.S.S. HUGHES DD-410

DICTIONARY OF FIGHTING SHIPS
History of the U.S.S. HUGHESDD-410
Hughes (DD-410) was laid down 15 September 1937 by Bath Iron Works,
Bath, Maine; launched 17 June 1939 sponsored by Mrs. Edward M. Hughes, 
widow of Commander Hughes; and commissioned at Boston Navy Yard 21 
September 1939, Lt. Comdr. Donald J. Ramsay in command.

Following shakedown in the Gulf of Mexico, Hughes joined the Atlantic 
Fleet. From July 1940 through December 1941, Hughes served in the 
Atlantic, first on patrol off Martinique to watch Vichy controlled 
French Forces there and then on Neutrality patrol off Iceland. During 
this time, she became the first American destroyer to escort a British 
convoy all the way to England.

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, warships were urgently needed in 
the Pacific and Hughes sailed from Norfolk 18 December 1941, arriving 
San Diego in company with Yorktown (CV-5), 30 December. She departed 
San Diego 12 January 1942 as an escort for ships bringing 
reinforcements to Samoa. Hughes then sailed from Samoa as part of a 
carrier striking force built around carrier Yorktown. She screened the 
carrier in strikes on Jaluit, Makin, Mili, and Canton Islands; then 
supported the combined Lexington, Yorktown Task Force 17, as it 
attacked Japanese bases at Lae and Salamana, 10 March 1942. Missing the 
Battle of the Coral Sea while escorting a tanker carrying fuel to 
Noumea, Hughes reached Pearl Harbor in time to participate in the 
Battle of Midway.

Hughes, while protecting carrier Yorktown during this action, shot down 
two torpedo planes and assisted in shooting down two others. After 
Yorktown was hit 4 June, Hughes continued an all-night vigil to prevent 
her capture. When the carrier was torpedoed by a submarine 6 
June, Hughes helped damage the attacker with depth charges, and rescued 
the survivors when Yorktown sank the next day.

After a brief time as convoy escort, she joined American Forces at 
Guadalcanal, where she screened the carrier Hornet (CV-8) throughout 
the campaign. During the Battle of Santa Cruz. Hughes splashed one 
Japanese plane and assisted in downing two more. Despite her valiant 
efforts, Hornet was hit and sunk 27 October 1942. Joining Task Force 
16, 10 November 1942 Hughes participated in the Naval Battle of 
Guadalcanal; by screening Enterprise (CV-6). Hughes continued screening 
operations until the end of February 1943.

Following a refit and brief convoy duty, Hughes was detached from the 
South Pacific and sailed to Pearl Harbor, departing 18 April for the 
Aleutian Islands and arrived on the 24th. Bombardments of Kiska on 6 
and 22 July were high points of her months in northern waters. After 
Kiska was occupied, Hughes departed the Aleutians for overhaul 25 
August in San Francisco.

Following overhaul, Hughes sailed for Pearl Harbor 26 October to 
prepare for the invasion of the Gilbert Islands. She sailed 10 November 
as part of the screen for the escort carriers covering the invasion of 
Makin Atoll. When Liscombe Bay (CVE 56) was sunk 24 November, Hughes 
rescued 152 of the survivors. She began screening the transport group 
27 November. and 2 days later departed for Pearl Harbor, and arrived 
there, 7 December 1943. On 13 January 1944, Hughes joined Task Force 53 
for the invasion of the Marshall Islands. She joined in the 
preinvasion, 3 to 11 February 1944. The destroyer continued to support 
the escort carriers during the strikes against Palaus 31 March.


Hughes took part in the invasion of Hollandia, New Guinea, 23 April, 
acting as a screen for the CVE group which provided air cover for the 
landings at Aitape and Tanahmerah Bay. Then Hughes remained off New 
Guinea as a convoy escort and fire-support ship of the 7th Fleet, until 
25 September when she departed for the invasion of the Philippines. 
During this time, Hughes participated in the invasions of Biak, 
Noemfoor, Cape Sensapor, and Morotai, serving as flagship of Rear Adm. 
William M. Flechteler during the latter campaign.

During the invasion of Leyte, Hughes was the flagship of Rear Adm. 
Arthur D. Struble commanding the tiny task group detailed to capture 
the small islands of Dinigat and Homohon guarding the entrance to Leyte 
Gulf. Following the successful conclusion of this operation, Hughes 
screened Philippine bound convoys, making frequent trips to and from 
New Guinea until 6 December 1944 when she reembarked Admiral Struble 
and departed for the invasion of Ormoc Bay, Leyte. Following this 
operation, Hughes was serving as a picket destroyer off the southern 
tip of Leyte when she was hit by a kamikaze 10 December 1944. Badly 
damaged with one engine room demolished and much of her other machinery 
destroyed, Hughes was towed to San Pedro Bay, Leyte where, after 
temporary repairs, she departed for Humboldt Bay, New Guinea, 19 
December en route to Pearl Harbor, where she arrived 23 January 1945. 
Following more repairs she sailed for San Francisco, arriving Hunter's 
Point Naval Drydocks 2 February. Hughes remained there for the next 3 
months undergoing extensive overhaul.

After a long testing period, Hughes was declared combat ready and 
departed for Adak in the Aleutians 4 June 1945. Assigned to the 
Northern Pacific Force, she remained in the Aleutians until the end of 
the war, harassing enemy shipping and bombarding Japanese bases. Hughes 
then served as part of the patrol force off Northern Honshu until 
relieved 20 October. She sailed for the United States 10 days later 
with Destroyer Squadron 2. She was decommissioned 28 August 1946, and 
struck from the Navy List 26 November 1948.

Hughes earned 14 battle stars for World War II service.


                                 Sims Class
                             Completed - 1939 - 40

DD 409 SIMS 
DD 410 HUGHES
DD 411 ANDERSON
DD 412 HAMMAN
DD 413 MUSTIN
DD 414 RUSSELL
DD 415 O'BRIEN
DD 416 WALKE
DD 417 MORRIS
DD 418 ROE
DD 419 WAINWRIGHT
DD 420 BUCK


Dimensions

Displacement:
   1,570 tons (stand)
   2,300 tons (Mean War Service)
Length: 348' (oa)
Beam: 36
Draft: 18' (max)

Armament

4 5"/ 38 DP
3 40mm singles
2 40mm twins
4 20mm
2 DC tracks
4 DC projectors
2 21" TT (quads)

Propulsion

Speed: 35 knots (max)
Max. Cruising radius:
  2,200 miles @ 25 knots 
  4,700 miles @15 knots
Horsepower: 50,0000 (shaft)
Drive: 2 screws; geared turbine
Fuel: 489 tons oil (max)

Remarks

  Slightly longer and wider than the ELLET's, the SIMS Class are otherwise 
very similar.

  They were lengthened to accommodate a fifth 5"-gun which was subsequently
replaced by additional light AA batteries.  The torpedo tubes are given high,
center-line mounts.  As the last American one-stack destroyers, they mark a 
transitional stage in development between the basic CUMMINGS-GRIDLEY design
and the BENSON-FLETCHER group that followed.

War losses include:

SIMS (DD409)
HAMMAN (DD412)
O'BREIN (DD415
WALKE (DD416)
BUCK (DD420)




Links to other web-sites with information on the
U.S.S. HUGHES DD-410


To learn more about the U.S.S. HUGHES Please visit these Web-site
Destroyer History Foundation
Hullnumber.com
NavSource Online  Has photos of DD-411


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