DD-411 ANDERSON
War Diary and Action Reports November 1942,
CONFIDENTIAL
WAR DIARY
of the
U.S.S. ANDERSON (411)
FROM: 1 November, 1942 TO: 30 November, 1942
Copy to: Chief of Naval Operations
(Office of Library and Records).
November 1, 1942
10-31-42. 11-1-42
G.T.C. L.W.T
1300 0000 Steaming in company with Task Group 61.9, base
course and axis 299(T), speed 20 knots, in screen
43, station No. 2 (2100 yds., 330 (R); guide,
PENSACOLA.
1300 0000 Base course changed to 311(T).
1723 0423 Exercised at General Quarters.
1623 0523 Secured from General Quarters.
1912 0612 Base course changed to 335(T).
2100 0800 Position 19-55-16 S., 162-49-48 E.
11-1-42. 11-1-42.
0100 1200 Position 18-42-48 s., 162-15-06 E. Courses and
speed made good since 1822 October 31, 1942:
Courses 307(T), 319(T). Speed 18.9 knots.
0300 1400 Base course and axis changed to 005(T).
0717 1817 Exercised at General Quarters.
0720 1820 Speed changed to 19 knots.
0815 1915 Secured from General Quarters.
0900 2000 Position 16-20-06 S., 162-20-48 E.
2 November, 1942.
11-1-42 11-2-42
G.T.C. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming in company with Task Group 61.9, base course and
axis 005(T), speed 19 knots, in screen 43, station No. 2
(2100 yds - 330 R), guide, PENSACOLA.
1735 0435 Exercised at General Quarters.
1835 0535 Secured from General Quarters.
2000 0700 Base course changed to 012 (T).
2010 0710 Speed changed to 19½ knots.
2100 0800 Position 12-45-18 S., 162-35-12 E.
2112 0812 Base course changed to 010 (T).
2140 0940 Sighted friendly aircraft (Flying Fortress) bearing
120 (T) 5 miles.
11-2-42 11-2-42
0100 1200 Position 11-31-12 S., 162-40-12 E. Course and speed made
good since 1200 November 1, 1942; Course 005 (T). Speed
18 knots.
0328 1428 Sighted San Cristobal Island bearing 200 (T), 20 miles.
0330 1430 Sighted friendly aircraft (Flying Fortress) bearing
025 (T), 5 miles.
0435 1535 Sighted Task Force 65 bearing 010 (T), 5 miles.
0444 1544 Speed changed to 20 knots.
0448 1548 Course changed to 326 (T). T.G. 61.9 proceeded to join
Task Force 65.
0530 1630 Joined Task Force 65. Took station on starboard beam of
the NEVILLE, speed 12 knots.
Task Organization
Task Force 65
Rear Admiral Callaghan
(in SAN FRANCISCO)
(a) 65.1 Transport Group Captain Reifanider
HUNTER LIGGETT, PRESIDENT
HAYES, BARNETT
(b) 65.2 Landing Group Colonel Jeschke
(of Eighth Marines)
(c) 65.3 Screening Group Rear Admiral Scott
ATLANTA, GWIN, STERRETT, (in ATLANTA)
WALKE, McCALLA, AARON
WARD, FLETCHER, LARDNER,
and BENHAM.
(d) 65.4 Support Group
SAN FRANCISCO, HELENA,
BUCHANAN, LAFFEY.
(e) 65.5 Eastern Transport Captain Ashe
Group (in NEVILLE)
NEVILLE, HEYWOOD, FORMAL-
HAUT, McKEAN, MANLEY.
(f) 65.6 Eastern Landing Group Colonel Sturgis
One battalion of 147th Infan-
try.
Battery K of 246th Field
Artillery Battalion.
Two companies of 2nd Raider
Battalion.
500 "Acorn" personnel.
(g) 65.7 Eastern Screening Group
PENSACOLA, CUSHING, ANDERSON,
PRESTON, and MUSTIN.
(h) 65.8 Cactus Group Rea Admiral Scott
Composed of task groups
65.1, 65.2, and 65.3.
(i) 65.9 Aola Bay Group Rear Admiral Tisdale
Composed of task groups
65.5, 65.6, 65.7.
Following taken from Anex A to Commander Task Force 65 Operation
Plan "C-1".
Task Group 65.9 detached prior dark, November 2nd, proceed to
AOLA BAY, GUADALCANAL ISLAND to arrive and commence unloading
By 0600, November 3rd.
Detach McKEAN and MANLEY in time for them to proceed ad arrive
ALOA BAY at 0500, November 3rd. Two companies of the Marine Raider
Battalion will secure beach head on either side of Government
House by 0600. Carry out directive of Comtaskfor 62 dispatch
300455 October, NPM #576. Landing beach designated by Command-
ing General First Marine Division is 400-1000 yards east of
AOLA RIVER.
Unless otherwise directed, each group retire independently to
NOUMEA passing through POINT GEORGE and to eastward of ESPIRITU
SANTO.
0615 1715 Speed changed to 14 knots.
0635 1735 Changed station to 3500 yards 100 degrees relative, guide,
PENSACOLA. Base course changed 300 (T).
0702 1802 MANLEY came along port side and passed mail.
0714 1814 MANLEY left from alongside.
0720 1820 Exercised at General Quarters.
0730 1830 Fleet course 150 (T).
0816 1916 Secured from General Quarters.
0840 1940 Base course changed to 120 (T).
1021 2121 Speed changed to 12 knots.
1139 2239 Based course changed to 130 (T).
1152 2252 Speed changed to 15 knots.
1210 2310 Base course changed to 165 (T).
1240 2340 Base course changed to 180 (T).
1258 2358 Base course changed to 270 (T).
3 November 1942.
11-2-42 11-3-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming in company with Task Force 65, base course and
axis 270 (T), speed 20 knots. SAN FRANCISCO, HELENA, and
PENSACOLA in column. STERRETT and McCALLA on starboard
Bow of formation. WALKE and GWIN on the axis, CUSHING
And ANDERSON on port bow of formation.
1342 0042 Speed changed to 23 knots.
1525 0225 Speed changed to 20 knots.
1600 0300 Base course changed to 295 (T).
1700 0400 TBS - Radar contact bearing 013 (T) 7 miles.
1705 0405 Went to General Quarters on orders of T.F. Commander.
1720 0420 McCALLA investigated the radar contact.
1746 0446 McCALLA made depth charge attack.
1847 0547 Secured from General Quarters.
1858 0558 Fleet speed 17 knots
1915 0615 Base course to 250 (T). Formed anti-submarine
screen 58. Took station No. 4 (4270).
1925 0625 Base course changed to 205 (T).
1942 0642 Base course changed to 150 (T).
2015 0715 Base course changed to 110 (T).
2100 0800 Position 11-01-00 S., 161-27-12 E.
2115 0815 Base course changed to 090 (T).
2131 0831 McCALLA rejoined and took station 5000 yards astern of
the PENSACOLA.
2213 0913 Sighted the ATLANTA and 4 destroyers bearing 030 (T), 15
miles.
2306 1006 ATLANTA and escorting DDs joined the formation.
11-3-42 11-3-42
0047 1147 Base course changed to 075 (T).
0100 1200 Position 11-09-36 S., 162-25-00 E. Course and speed made
good since 1200 November 2, 1942: Course 213 (T). Speed
1.3 knots.
0130 1230 Base course changed to 055 (T).
0213 1313 Base course changed to 015 (T).
0300 1400 Sighted several friendly ships (transports) bearing 072
(T), 12 miles.
0330 1430 Formed Task Group 65.9, PENSACOLA, guide, ANDERSON sta-
tion No.2 (4260).
0422 1522 PENSACOLA signaled tat his course was 350 (T), speed 14
knots.
0440 1540 Base course changed to 300 (T), speed 14 knots.
0450 1550 Base course changed to 305 (T).
0700 1800 Set boiler condition ONE. All boilers (3) on the main
steam line.
0717 1817 Exercised at General Quarters.
2100 2000 Position 10-02-06 S., 161-57-00 E.
2200 2100 Passed MALAITA ISLAND bearing 080 (T) 16 miles.
4 November 1942.
11-3-42 11-4-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming in company with Task Group 65.9, base course 300
(T), speed 14 knots, disposition 3P, station No. 2 (4200),
guide PENSACOLA. Task Groups 65.8 and 65.4 dead ahead on
same course.
1352 0052 TBS - Surface radar contact 324 (T), 27,000 yards.
1355 0055 Changed course to 000 (T).
1410 0110 Passed NURA ISLAND on port beam, 13.5 miles
1412 0112 Changed course to 290 (T).
1425 0125 Speed changed to 12 knots.
1545 0245 Changed course to 090 (T).
1650 0350 Landing operations commenced AOLA BAY, GUADALCANAL ISLAND.
1730 0430 Took station astern of PENSACOLA; MUSTIN took station
ahead of PENSACOLA.
Commenced patrolling at 15 knots off beach near AOLA RIVER
1845 0545 Sighted 2 friendly planes bearing 170 (T), distant about
10 miles.
2100 0800 Position 09-24-18 S., 160-35-12 E.
11-4-42 11-4-42
0017 1117 TBS - Following message received from GUADALCANAL. "12
single engine planes coming from northwest. Arrive about
1155"
0044 1144 Transports (of TG 65.9) got underway and stood out of the
bay following the PENSACOLA in column, speed 25 knots.
Destroyers formed screen around transports, 2000 yards.
0100 1200 Position 09-28-50 S., 160-38-20 E. Courses and speeds
made good from 1200 November 3 to 0400 November 4, 1942:
Courses 010 (T), 296°30' (T). Speed 11.5 knots.
0215 1315 Task Group 65.9 returned to AOLA BAY and transports com-
menced landing operations again. PENSACOLA and destroyers
commenced patrolling as before.
0555 1655 Sighted the FULLER and O'BANNON bearing 315 (T) 18 miles.
0645 1745 Sighted TG 65.4 bearing 315 (T).
0900 2000 Position 09-24-12 E., 160-38-00 E.
1230 2330 TBS - CTG 65.5 report that half the unloading operations
were completed.
COMSOPACFOR dispatch 040452 of November 1942: Paraphrase:
TG 65.1 when unloaded proceed to ESPIRITU SANTO. ATLANTA
and 4 destroyers from escort. All of 65.5 less APD's that
are ready join TG 65.1 Rest of TF 65 when present duty
finished proceed to ESPIRITU SANTO and fuel.
5 November 1942.
11-4-42 11-5-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Patrolling with the PENSACOLA, CUSHING, and MUSTIN at
15 knots off beach near AOLA RIVER, GUADALCANAL ISLAND,
covering the landing operations of the NEVILLE, HEYWOOD,
FORNALHUAT, McKEAN, and MANLEY.
2100 0800 Position 09-27-06 S., 160-34-18 E.
2225 0925 TBS - 24 enemy bombers and 25 fighters coming from north-
west; due here about 1100 local time.
2350 1050 Transports got underway and stood out of the harbor with
the PENSACOLA. Destroyers formed circular screen, speed
15 knots.
11-5-42 11-5-42
0100 1200 Position 09-29-54 S., 160-33-48 E.
0115 1215 Transports returned to anchorage.
0125 1225 Landing operations commenced again. Patrolled as before.
0315 1415 BENHAM and WALKE report to the PENSACOLA for duty.
0900 2000 Position 09-25-18 S., 160-38-06 E.
1100 2200 Radar contact reported, latitude 9-26 S., longitude 160-
43 E., course 304 (T), speed 20 knots. PENSACOLA, MUSTIN,
ANDERSON, designated to investigate.
1105 2205 PENSACOLA on course 090 (T), 15 knots. Radar contact
lost a short time later.
1150 2250 PENSACOLA reported that information received indicated
enemy planes in this area.
1156 2256 Sighted searchlight beam apparently coming from
GUADALCANAL.
1210 2310 Sighted two flares bearing 180 (T) over island.
6 November 1942.
11-5-42 11-6-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Patrolling with the PENSACOLA, CUSHING, MUSTIN and T.G.
65.4 at 15 knots off beach near AOLA RIVER, GUADALCANAL
ISLAND, covering the landing operations of the NEVILLE,
HEYWOOD, FORNALHUAT, McKEAN and MANLEY.
1435 0135 Landing operations completed. Got underway and stood out
to sea, course 050 (T), speed 14 knots.
1437 0137 Formed anti-submarine screen. ANDERSON in station (4310)
guide, PENSACOLA. Transports in column.
1450 0150 PENSACOLA, CUSHING, and BENHAM left this formation and
joined T.G. 65.4. Guide shifted to the NEVILLE.
1510 0210 Base course changed to 105 (T). ANDERSON in station (4300)
1515 0215 Sighted a flare over GUADALCANAL.
1550 0250 Base course changed to 126 (T).
1903 0603 Base course changed to 090 (T).
1908 0608 Secured from General Quarters.
1930 0630 PENSACOLA, CUSHING, BENHAM rejoined this formation. Dis-
position 58, took station (4310).
2100 0800 Position 09-53-18 S., 161-52-06 E.
2121 0821 Base course changed to 110 (T).
2300 1000 Sighted T.G. 65.4 bearing 310 (T) distant about 15 miles.
2331 1031 Speed changed to 14½ knots.
11-6-42 11-6-42
0000 1100 Base course changed to 134 (T).
0100 1200 Position 10-11-12 S,. 162-40-00E. Courses and speed made
good from 0135 to 1200 November 6, 1942. Courses 160°30'
(T), 098 (T). Speed 13.0 knots.
0200 1400 Base course changed to 180 (T).
0700 1800 Speed changed to 14 knots.
0710 1810 Exercised at General Quarters.
0810 1910 Secured from General Quarters.
Base course changed to 090 (T).
0814 1914 Guide shifted to the PENSACOLA.
0900 2000 Position 11-41-12 S., 163-12-54 E.
1010 2110 Based course changed to 180 (T).
COMSOPAC dispatch 061242 of November 1942. Paraphrase
Follows:
MUSTIN, ANDERSON, BENHAM, and WALKE changed to Desron TWO
in Task Force SIXTEEN and ordered after fueling and pro-
visioning at ESPIRTU SANTO to proceed to NOUMEA to join
Task Force SIXTEEN.
11-6-42 11-7-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming in company with Task Group 65.9, base course 180
(T), speed 14 knots, PENSACOLA and transports in column,
destroyers in screen 5S, ANDERSON in station No. 2 (4310),
1537 0237 Speed change to 13½ knots.
1730 0430 Exercised at General Quarters.
1822 0522 Speed changed to 13 knots.
1828 0528 Secured from General Quarters.
1931 0631 Base course changed to 097 (T).
1956 0656 Guide shifted to the NEVILLE. Speed changed to 14½ knots.
2100 0800 Position 13-51-36 S., 163-43-54 E.
Speed changed to 14 knots.
2145 0845 Speed changed to 13 knots.
2300 1000 Speed changed to 14 knots.
11-7-42 11-7-42
0100 1200 Position 13-55-06 S., 164-30-12 E. Courses and speed
made good since 1200 November 6, 1942: Courses 154 (T).
Speed 10.2 knots.
0116 1216 Base course changed to 100 (T).
0650 1750 Guide shifted to the PENSACOLA.
0701 1801 Exercised at General Quarters.
0740 1840 Speed changed to 13 knots.
0800 1900 Secured from General Quarters.
0900 2000 Position 14-07-06 S., 165-11-06 E.
8 November 1942.
11-7-42. 11-8-42.
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming in company with Task Group 65.9, base course
100 (T), speed 13 knots, PENSACOLA and Transports in
column, destroyers in screen 5S, ANDERSON in station
No. 2 (4310), guide PENSACOLA.
1300 0000 Base course changed to 130 (T).
1610 0310 Base course changed to 180 (T).
1711 0411 Exercised at General Quarters.
1740 0440 Sighted Aoba Island, New Hebrides, bearing 170 (T),
distant about 12 miles.
1800 0500 Base course changed to 190 (T).
1811 0511 Secured from General Quarters.
1820 0520 Base course changed to 200 (T), speed to 14 knots.
1850 0550 Sighted Espiritu Santo Island bearing 240 (T), 28 miles.
Base course changed to 210 (T).
2053 0753 Changed course to 355 (T).
Commenced patrolling channel entrance during entry
Of heavy ships.
2100 0800 Position 15-35-48 S., 167-15-12 E.
2116 0816 Took station astern of the WALKE and proceeded to
enter the channel.
2228 0928 Moored starboard to port side of the AARON WARD in
Berth D4, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo, New
Hebrides Islands.
11-8-42. 11-8-42.
0012 1112 Got underway to shift berths.
0032 1132 Moored port side to starboard side of the MUSTIN in
nest with the LACKAWANNA, WALKE, and BENHAM.
0050 1150 Commenced receiving fuel oil from the LACKAWANNA.
0307 1407 Completed fueling ship.
0320 1420 Got underway to shift berths.
8 November 1942.
11-8-42. 11-8-42.
G.C.T. L.W.T.
0340 1440 Moored starboard side to port side of the AARON WARD
in Berth D4.
Comtaskfor Sixty Five secret dispatch 080710 of November 1942 to
Comsopac:
Task Organization
Task Group 65.1 - - - - - - - - - Commander T. E. Fraser
WALKE, BENHAM, (in WALKE).
MUSTIN, ANDERSON
Orders: After fueling and provisioning leave Espiritu Santo
November 9th at daylight and proceed to Noumea, New
Caledonia in accordance Comsopac 050422. Report
C.T.F 16 for duty, abolish task group.
9 November 1942.
11-8-42. 11-9-42.
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Moored starboard side to port side of the AARON
WARD in Berth D4, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo,
New Hebrides Island.
1830 0530 Got underway in accordance with COMTASKFOR 65 secret
dispatch 08071 of November 1942.
2040 0740 Set course 160 (T), speed 20 knots. Ships in column,
WALKE, BENHAM, MUSTIN, ANDERSON.
2100 0800 Position 15-39-36 S., 167-16-36 E.
2110 0810 Base course changed to 230 (T).
2220 0920 Base course changed to 165 (T).
Formed normal submarine line (line of bearing 90
And 270 degrees relative on guide, WALKE). Distance
3,000 yards. Order of ships left to right: ANDERSON,
MUSTIN, WALKE, and BENHAM.
11-9-42. 11-9-42.
0100 1200 Position 16-48-42 S., 167-16-18 E. Course and speed
made good since 0740 November 9, 1942: Course 162 (T).
Speed 19.3 knots.
0659 1759 Exercised at General Quarters.
0800 1900 Distance changed to 2,000 yards.
0801 1901 Secured from general Quarters.
0900 2000 Position 19-26-36 S., 167-56-54 E.
10 November 1942
11-9-42 11-10-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming in company with Task Group 65.1, base course 165
(T), speed 20 knots, formation, scouting line, distance
1000 yards, guide WALKE, order of ships from left,
ANDERSON, MUSTIN, WALKE, BENHAM.
1600 0300 Base course changed to 200 (T).
1700 0400 Exercised at General Quarters.
1753 0453 Distance changed to 3000 yards.
1900 0600 Change course to 113 (T), speed to 15 knots and left the
formation.
2015 0715 Sighted Walpole Island bearing 075 (T), 23 miles.
2100 0800 Position 22-47-54 S., 188-39-00 E.
2210 0910 Sighted the CLARK and four ship convoy, bearing 147(T), 10
miles.
2217 0917 Changed course to 180 (T), speed to 10 knots.
2242 0942 Joined the CLARK and convoy, base course 245 (T), convoy
speed 11.5 knots. Convoy ships in two columns of two
ships each. Took station 1500 yards 45 (R) on leader
right hand column. Patrolled Station. Convoy keeping
zone plus hours 25 minutes.
Position 23-05-15 S., 163-56-18 E.
11-10-42 11-10-42
0100 1200 Position 23-15-12- S., 168-38-30 E. Course and speed made
good since 1200 November 9, 1942: Course 169 (T). Speed
16.4 knots.
0650 1750 Convoy speed changed to 11 knots.
0709 1809 Exercised at General Quarters.
0809 1909 Secured from General Quarters.
0900 2000 Position 23-30-18 S., 167-30-12 E.
0955 2055 Changed from minus 11 to minus 12 zone time.
11 November 1942.
11-10-42 11-11-42
G.C.T L.W.T.
1200 0000 Steaming in company with the CLARK and four ship convoy.
Convoy ships in two columns of two ships each. Base
Course 290 (T), convoy speed 11 knots, station 1500 yards
45 (R) on leader of right hand column. Patrolling
station.
1435 0235 Base course changed to 335 (T).
1706 0506 Exercised at General Quarters.
1715 0515 Base course changed to 010 (T).
1726 0526 Sighted the USS STRATFORD bearing 107 (T) 6 miles.
1738 0538 Sighted NEW CALEDONIA bearing 000 (T), 25 miles.
1806 0606 Secured from General Quarters.
Base course changed to 040 (T).
1820 0620 Sighted AMEDEE light house bearing 034 (T) 17 miles.
1830 0630 Base course changed to 033 (T).
2000 0800 Position 22-31-48 S,. 166-24-30 E.
2030 0830 Entered the channel.
2226 1026 Moored starboard side to the SS J.C. DOMNELL, DUMBEA
BAY, NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA.
2240 1040 Commenced receiving fuel oil.
Changed from -12 to -11 zone time.
COMDESRON TWO dispatch 111121 of November 1942:
DESRON TWO organization. CLARK Squadron leader. DESDIV
THREE Commander Ramsey. COMDESDIV THREE in HUGHES BENHAM
ELLET ANDERSON. DESDIV FOUR Commander True in MORRIS
MUSTIN RUSSELL WALKE. Units and ships are listed in their
Natural order in column.
(Comdesron TWO - Commander Holcomb.)
2350 1050 Completed fueling ship.
11-11-42 11-11-42
0010 1110 Completed receiving 4 torpedoes.
0011 1111 Got underway in accordance with COMTASKFOR 16 dispatch
102253 of November 1942, and stood out of the harbor.
Now a unit of DESRON TWO in TASK FORCE 16.
CTG 16.4 dispatch 110111 of November 1942.
In cruising formation No. 1, destroyers will screen in-
dividual ship as follows:
Carrier, by RUSSELL and ANDERSON, also plane guard.
WASHINGTON, by MORRIS and WALKE.
SOUTH DAKOTA by MUSTIN AND BENHAM.
NORTHHAMPTON by HUGHES.
Carrier screen 35 degrees on each bow of carrier. Others
screen 45 degrees each bow of ship screened. In case one
screening vessel only screen outboard bow. All bearings
relative. Screening intervals 2500 yards. Screening
vessels remain with ship screened at all times except
when repelling air attack at which time circular screen
is formed. Inboard screening vessels keep clear of 2000
yard circle around carrier by shifting screen outboard
with outboard vessels dropping back in order to maintain
2500 yards distance between screening vessels. Carrier
screen take plane guard stations promptly when shapes are
hoisted. Upward vessel taking station ahead of carrier.
Downwind usual station astern. Adjust sound axis in each
case to sound outboard of wakes of ships ahead.
0100 1200 Position: In channel proceeding out of DUMBEA BAY.
0108 1208 COMTASKGR 16.4 dispatch 110040 of November 1942:
Sortie plan BAKER Pacfilt Tactical Bulletin 2-42. Take
stations in patrol lane in order of sortie. CLARK will
patrol off OPTION.
0201 1301 Commenced patrolling in assigned lane outside channel
entrance.
0310 1410 Task Force 16 formed disposition 1 base course 320 (T),
axis 100 (T), speed 23 knots, station (2.5-325), guide,
ENTERPRISE.
0219 1419 Speed changed to 20 knots.
0406 1506 Base course changed to 300 (T).
0415 1515 COMTASKFOR 16 dispatch 110355 of November 1942:
This force is proceeding to west of NEW CALEDONIA lat-
itude 14-00 S., longitude 161-30 E., to arrive 0800 Fri-
day to be in position to strike enemy forces in GUADAL-
CANAL area.
0426 1526 Speed changed to 15 knots.
0438 1538 Speed changed to 20 knots.
0616 1716 Base course changed to 090 (T).
0700 1800 Changed from -11 to -12 zone time.
0723 1923 Base course changed to 293 (T).
0800 2000 Position 22-29-06 S., 165-52-12 E.
12 November 1942.
11-11-42 11-12-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1200 0000 Steaming in company with Task Force 16, base course 317
(T), axis 100 (T), speed 20 knots, disposition 1, station
(2.5-325, guide, ENTERPRISE.
1719 0519 Exercised at General Quarters.
1821 0621 Secured from General Quarters.
1825 0625 Axis changed to 150 (T).
1833 0633 Base course changed to 305 (T).
2000 0800 Position 20-29-12- S., 163-02-30 E.
2026 0826 Base course changed to 330 (T).
2122 0922 ENTERPRISE aircraft carried out simulated attack on the
carrier.
2300 1100 COMTASKGR 16.4 dispatch 122052 of November 1942:
Screen assignment: Carrier, RUSSELL ANDERSON also plane
Guard. WASHINGTON, MORRIS WALKE. SOUTH DAKOTA, CLARK
BENHAM. NORTHAMPTON, HUGHES MUSTIN. PENSACOLA, GWIN
PRESTON. Use individual ships screens. Screening
interval 2500 yards except carrier screen 2000 yards.
Screening vessels adjust stations to obtain best
coverage. Interior screening vessels move out keeping
clear 2000 yards. Circle around carrier outboard
screening vessels dropping back if necessary to maintain
distance about 2500 yards between screening ships.
Screening vessels in van adjust station to equalize
between light screening units.
2304 1104 Commenced exercise 12CT.
2317 1117 COMSOPACFOR dispatch 122247 of November 1942:
One enemy battleship, one cruiser, four destroyers, lat-
itude 8-40 s., longitude 160-10 E. course 125 (T), speed
20 knots at 0845.
2320 1120 CTF 16 dispatch 110241 and CTG 16.4 dispatch 121212 of
November 1942:
Organization of Surface Attack Group.
Task Group 16.3 Rear Admiral Lee
Task Unit 16.3.1 Rear Admiral Lee
WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA
NORTHAMPTON
Task Unit 16.3.2 Commander Holcomb
Comdesron TWO in CLARK, GWIN,
PRESTON. Comdesdiv THREE in
HUGHES, BENHAM, ANDERSON.
When surface attack group deploy, Desdiv FOUR remain
with carrier. Tanker and screen remain with carrier.
2322 1122 COMTASKGR 16.3 dispatch 122000 of November 1942:
Surface attack group; Task Group 16.3 Rear Admiral Lee.
Main body, Task Unit 16.3.1. Battleline, Rear Admiral
Lee, WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA. Supports, Rear Admiral
Tisdale, PENSACOLA, NORTHAMPTON. Destroyers, Task Unit
16.3.2, Commander Holcomb in CLARK with assigned DDs.
For day attack, Battle Disposition DOG (TS-133). Guide,
WASHINGTON. Deployment on base course and speed as
Signaled. Circle spacing 1000 yards. SOUTH DAKOTA 2180.
Supports on designated bow 3035 or 3325 or as signaled.
Destroyers form screen on circle SIX as directed by
destroyer commander. Battleship and supports station
are flexible. Destroyers concentration on leader near
axis when signaled. For night attack Battle Disposition
LOVE ONE. Main body in column open order. Guide in WASH-
INGTON until formed then leading cruiser. Destroyers
Screen main body as directed by Destroyer Commander.
Destroyers van concentrate on leader about 3000 yards
ahead leading unit when signaled. If ordered, two
destroyers from destroyers rear in area 1500 yards astern
heavy units. Battle Disposition LOVE TWO same as LOVE
ONE above except main body order; battleships, cruisers,
WASHINGTON, guide.
2354 1154 Completed exercise 12CT.
11-12-42 1-12-42
0000 1200 Position 19-30-12 S., 162-28-12 E. Course and speed
made good since 1400 November 11, 1942: Course 308 (T).
Speed 12.2 knots.
0143 1343 Formed close AA screen (for practice)
0204 1404 Formed cruising disposition No. 1.
0225 1425 SOUTH DAKOTA and screening destroyers left the formation.
0323 1523 SOUTH DAKOTA and screening destroyers rejoined this
formation.
0400 1600 COMTASKFOR 16 dispatch 120205 of November 1942:
When under attack speed will be 25 or 27 knots and turn
will be made with full rudder. It is probable that
full circles will be turned. All ships must be alert.
0530 1730 Distance from ENTERPRISE changed to 2000 yards.
0607 1807 Base course changed to 352 (T).
0721 1921 MORRIS left the formation.
0726 1926 Exercised at General Quarters.
0800 2000 Position 17-49-36 S., 161-45-24 E.
0826 2026 Secured form General Quarters.
13 November 1942.
11-12-42 11-13-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1200 0000 Steaming in company with Task Force 16, base course 352
(T), axis 150 (T), speed 20 knots, disposition No. 1,
station (2325), guide, ENTERPRISE.
1735 0535 Exercised at General Quarters.
1825 0625 ENTERPRISE launched 22 planes.
1836 0636 Secured from General Quarters.
1840 0640 MORRIS rejoined the formation.
2000 0800 Position 14-22-24 S., 161-18-42 E.
2024 0824 ENTERPRISE launched 14 planes.
2045 0845 Flag hoist indicated own ships sighted, 1 cruiser and 2
destroyers; bearing 055 (T).
2117 0917 ENTERPRISE launched (approximately) 12 planes and
recovered 9 planes.
2130 0930 Ships previously reported joined this formation PENSACOLA,
PRESTON and GWIN.
2230 1030 ENTERPRISE launched 3 planes, recovered 10 planes.
2247 1047 Emergency 9 turn to 285 (T).
2250 1050 Emergency turn to 210 (T). SOUTH DAKOTA reported sighting
torpedo wake on her starboard bow.
2300 1100 Base course changed to 300 (T).
2328 1128 Base course changed to 015 (T).
11-13-42 11-13-42
0000 1200 Position 13-52-36 S., 161-39-18 E. Course and speed made
good since 1200 November 12, 1942: Course 353 (T). Speed
14.3 knots.
0030 1230 ENTERPRISE launched 14 planes, recovered 9 planes.
0035 1235 Base course changed to 270 (T).
11-13-42 11-13-42
0041 1241 TBS - TF16 from CTF16: Sighted by Jap Bomber and our
position given. Jap plane shot down by our planes.
0045 1245 ENTERPRISE recovered 5 planes.
0102 1302 Emergency 9 turn to 190 (T).
0115 1315 Base course changed to 270 (T).
0118 1318 GWIN reported sound contact bearing 175 (T) 700 yards.
Base course changed to 000 (T).
1310 1510 ENTERPRISE launched 11 planes.
0318 1518 Base course changed to 180 (T).
0415 1615 ENTERPRISE launched 7 planes, recovered 16 planes.
0615 1815 Base course changed to 000 (T). ANDERSON and RUSSELL
countermarched. New station (2035).
13 November 1942.
11-13-42. 11-13-42.
0720 1920 WASHINGTON, SOUTH DAKOTA, GWIN, BENHAM, WALKE
and PRESTON left the formation on detached duty.
0721 1921 Exercised at General Quarters.
0730 1930 Base course changed to 180 9T). Countermarched
and took station (2325).
0740 1940 MUSTIN left on detached duty.
0800 2000 Position 14-26-54 S., 161-59-12 E.
0821 2021 Secured from General Quarters.
0930 2130 Base course changed to 270 (T).
0940 2140 TBS - TF 16 from CTF 16: Cancel all unexecuted
night signals.
0951 2151 Base course changed to 300 (T), speed to 23 knots.
1040 2240 Changed to station 2.5-325).
1110 2310 Speed changed to 25 knots.
14 November 1942.
11-13-42 11-14-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1200 0000 Steaming in company with Task Force 16, base course 300
(T), axis 150 (T), speed 25 knots, disposition No. 1,
station (2.5-325), guide, ENTERPRISE.
1730 0530 Exercised at General Quarters.
1835 0635 Base course changed to 350 (T).
1900 0700 Secured from General Quarters.
1918 0718 ENTERPRISE launched 21 planes.
1927 0727 Speed changed to 22 knots.
2000 0800 Position 12-55-30 S., 158-57-48 E.
2020 0820 Formed close AA screen.
2021 0821 TBS - Warning-Ten unidentified aircraft altitude 2500
feet, coming in from north.
2022 0822 General Quarters.
2040- 0840 Numerous reports of unidentified aircraft.
2300 1100
2051 0851 Course changed to 180 (T).
2055 0855 Identified one group of planes coming in high as our own.
2057 0857 ENTERPRISE launched 23 fighters and 19 dive bombers.
2123 0923 Course changed to 000 (T).
2141 0941 Course changed to 180 (T).
2148 0948 COMTASKFOR 16 dispatch 142100 of November, 1942:
Yesterday afternoon our second attack group hit the
Enemy transports near NEW GEORGIA and landed GUADALCANAL.
2153 0953 TBS - To TF 16 from CTF 16: Our fighters have shot down
a KAWANISHI bearing 020 (T), 42 miles.
2200 1000 Course changed to 345 (T).
2216 1016 ENTERPRISE recovered 9 planes.
2305 1105 ENTERPRISE launched 8 planes and recovered 8 planes.
11-13-42 11-14-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
2347 1147 ENTERPRISE recovered 12 planes.
2348 1148 Course changed to 200 (T).
2350 1150 Speed changed to 27 knots.
11-14-42 11-14-42
0000 1200 Position 12-49-30 S., 149-09-18 E. Course and speed made
good since 1200 November 13, 1942: Course 294 (T). Speed
9.2 knots.
0001 1201 Course changed to 180 (T).
0030 1230 COMTASKFOR 16 dispatch 142352 of November 1942:
Info received indicates 4 Jap transports got through to
GUADALCANAL and started unloading. They are all burning
Now though.
0047 1247 Speed changed to 26 knots.
0102 1302 Base course changed to 345 (T).
0105 1305 Speed changed to 22 knots.
0123 1323 Formed disposition No. 1.
0145 1345 Secured from General Quarters.
0148 1348 Base course changed to 180 (T).
0150 1350 TBS - TF 16 from CTF 16: The position of this task force
was reported to the enemy at 1144 this morning.
0215 1415 ENTERPRISE launched 20 planes.
0216 1416 Changed station to (3070).
0302 1502 ENTERPRISE recovered 9 planes.
0318 1518 COMTASKFOR 16 dispatch 140230 of November 1942:
Jap convoy was just attacked by 7 TBF, 8 VF, 17 SBD.
Our attack group going in now is 12 VF, 8 SBD. This morn-
ing we sent 18 SBD, 8 VF. VF returned; SBD went to GUAD-
ALCANAL. We are retiring now to fuel DDs from cruisers
and await further orders. 18 VF available of which 8 are
in constant cap.
0552 1752 Speed changed to 18 knots.
0602 1802 Base course changed to 225 (T).
11-14-42 11-14-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
0615 1815 Changed station to (3060).
0728 1928 Exercised at General Quarters.
0800 2000 Position 14-47-36 S., 158-44-54 E.
0828 2028 Secured from General Quarters.
1045 2245 Surface contact reported bearing 220 (T). Made emergency
turn to 155 (T), changed speed to 20 knots.
1050 2250 Speed changed to 18 knots.
1100 2305 Radar contact reported fading - 315 (T) 15,000.
15 November 1942.
11-14-42 11-15-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1200 0000 Steaming in company with Task Force 16, base course 225
(T), axis 150 9T), speed 18, disposition No. 1, station
(3060), guide, ENTERPRISE.
1230 0030 Base course changed to 180 (T).
1330 0130 Base course changed to 135 (T).
1742 0542 Exercised at General Quarters.
1847 0647 Secured from General Quarters.
2000 0800 Position 17-17-06 S., 159-16-00 E.
2020 0820 Base course changed to 127 (T).
11-15-42 11-15-42
0000 1200 Position 17-50-54 S., 159-58-54 E. Course and speed made
good since 1200 November 14, 1942: Course 171 (T). Speed
12.7 knots.
0038 1238 Axis changed to 130 (T).
0210 1410 COMTASKFOR 16 dispatch 150330 of November 1942: (VISUAL)
Rear Admiral Tisdale PENSACOLA NORTHAMPTON 3 DDs desig-
nated Task Group 16.6. When directed proceed ESPIRITU
SANTO fuel await orders COMSOPAC. This is in obedience
orders COMSOPAC.
0225 1425 SECNAV dispatch 102141/241 of November 1942:
At 1930 Sunday 8 November VICHY FRANCE broke diplomatic
Relations with the UNTIED STATES.
0340 1540 TBS - ANDERSON, RUSSELL, and MORRIS designated for duty
with Task Group 16.6.
0420 1620 Left the ENTERPRISE and joined Task Group 16.6. PENSACOLA
and NORTHAMPTON in column. Destroyers formed screen 3S.
ANDERSON took station No. 2 (2.7-300), Guide, PENSACOLA,
Task Group 16.6 proceeded on detached duty.
0428 1628 Speed changed to 20 knots.
11-15-42 11-15-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
0538 1738 COMTASKFOR 16 dispatch 150020 of November 1942: (VISUAL)
Summary of yesterdays air operations. At dawn launched
search 200 to 250 miles sector 285 to 015. A search re-
ported 10 unidentified planes ay 140 miles headed for us.
It being apparent enemy knew our position attack group 17
VSB and 10 VF was launched for SAVO area. Planes of
search group hit 2 CA with 500lb bombs. Both burned
heavily. Also put 2 bombs on APs results unobserved.
Attack group made at least 3-1,000 lb bomb hits on BB-CA
force plus numerous near misses. Many unidentified
aircraft and reported CV indicated advisability of
retiring. Attack group directed land GUADALCANAL. Some
of search planes intercepted message and also landed at
GUADALCANAL. At 1400 launched 8 VSB 12 VF to strike AP
force and land GUADALCANAL. Results of strike with 1,000
lb bombs and VF strafing not reported. Our planes now
operating out of GUADALCANAL. Slant Eyes still looking
for Blue CV.
0648 1848 Distance increased to 3000 yards.
0656 1856 Speed changed to 18 knots.
0722 1922 Exercised at General Quarters.
0743 1943 Speed changed to 20 knots.
0800 2000 Position 17-56-42 S., 161-54-18 E.
0820 2020 Secured from General Quarters.
0830 2030 Base course changed to 000 (T).
0930 2130 Base course changed to 068 (T).
16 November 1942.
11-15-42 11-16-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1200 0000 Steaming in company with Task Group 16.6, base course
068 (T), speed 20 knots, cruisers in column, destroyers
in screen 3S, ANDERSON in station No. 2, (3300), guide,
PENSCAOLA.
1729 0529 Exercised at General Quarters.
1829 0629 Secured from General Quarters.
1902 0702 Base course changed to 073 (T).
2000 0800 Position 16-17-18 S., 165-14-30 E.
2350 1150 Sighted ESPIRITU SANTO, bearing 050 (T), about 20 miles.
11-16-42 11-16-42
0000 1200 Position 15-55-00 S., 166-29-06 E. Course and speed made
good since 1200 November 15, 1942: Course 073 (T). Speed
16.7 knots.
0115 1315 Base course changed to 095 (T).
0130 1330 Changed from -12 to -11 zone time.
0255 1355 Base course changed to 000 (T).
0318 1418 Base course changed to 310 (T).
0346 1446 Task Group 16.6 proceeded to enter port.
0511 1611 Moored starboard side to the RUSSELL in nest with the
MORRIS and GUADALUPE in Berth D-4, SEGOND CHANNEL,
ESPIRITU SANTO, NEW HEBRIDES ISLAND.
0800 1900 Commenced receiving fuel oil.
1100 2200 Completed fueling ship.
17 November 1942
11-16-42 11-17-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Moored starboard side to the RUSSELL in nest with MORRIS
and GUADALUPE in Berth D-4, SEGOND CHANNEL, ESPIRITU
SANTO, NEW HEBRIDES ISLAND.
1737 0637 Got underway to shift berths.
1752 0652 Anchored in Berth D-2, SEGOND CHANNEL.
1855 0755 RUSSELL moored to starboard side.
11-17-42 11-18-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Anchored in Berth D-2, SEGOND CHANNEL, ESPIRITU SANTO,
NEW HEBRIDES ISLAND. RUSSELL moored to starboard side.
11-18-42 11-18-42
0450 1550 CURTIS reported sight contacted of a submarine.
0655 1755 RUSSELL got underway to search for reported submarine.
11-19-42 11-19-42
0710 1810 Got underway to shift berths.
0725 1825 Anchored in Segond Channel, on following anchorage
bearings: White Rock 094 (T); Black Rock Point 197 (T);
Depth of water - 30 fathoms used 60 fathoms to
starboard anchor.
0735 1835 Started heaving in on anchor.
0736 1836 Port propeller touched bottom, slightly bending one
blade.
0737 1837 Underway to shift anchorages.
0750 1850 Anchored in eastern entrance to Segond Channel, 400
yards SE of previous anchorage. Assumed listening
watch for submarines.
20 November 1942.
11-19-42 11-20-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Anchored in eastern entrance to Segond Channel,
Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides Island.
1855 0555 Got underway to shift berths.
1900 0600 Anchored in Berth D-2, Segond Channel.
21 November 1942.
11-20-42 11-21-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Anchored in Berth D-2, Segond Channel, Espiritu
Santo, New Hebrides Island.
11-21-42 11-21-42
0027 1127 Got underway and stood out to sea to make a speed
run to determine condition of propellers and shafts.
0125 1225 Completed run. Proceeded to return to port.
0220 1320 Anchored in Berth D-2, Segond Channel.
22 November 1942.
11-21-42 11-22-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Anchored in Berht D-2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo,
New Hebrides Islands.
2009 0709 Got underway and stood out to sea for a test run to
determine if any damage resulted from touching of
bottom by port propeller, on November 19, 1942.
2220 0920 Proceeded to return to port.
2311 1011 Moored starboard side to SABINE, in Segond Channel.
2320 1020 Commenced receiving fuel oil.
2348 1048 Completed fueling ship.
11-22-42 11-22-43
0025 1125 Got underway to shift berths
0040 1140 Anchored in Berth D-2, Segond Channel.
0815 1915 NICHOLAS moored to port side.
23 November 1942.
11-22-42 11-23-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Anchored in Berth D-2, Segond Channel, Espiritu
Santo, New Hebrides Islands.
1904 0604 NICHOLAS got underway to go alongside a tanker.
2130 0830 NICHOLAS moored to port side.
24 November 1942.
11-23-42 11-24-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Anchored in Berth D-2, Segond Channel, Espiritu
Santo, New Hebrides Islands with the NICHOLAS moored
to port side.
1903 0603 Got underway, and with the MORRIS, stood out to sea
in accordance with Comsopac dispatch 230722 of
November 1942. MORRIS and ANDERSON ordered to
proceed Noumea, New Caledonia.
1950 0650 Set course 180, speed 20 knots, station (2090),
guide, MORRIS.
2000 0700 Changed course to 210 (T).
2012 0712 Changed course to 240 (T).
2015 0715 Passed Nalekula Island bearing 180 (T), about
10 miles.
2033 0733 Changed course to 220 (T).
2100 0800 Position 15-57-24 S., 167-03-42 E.
2107 0807 Changed course to 180 (T).
2137 0837 Changed course to 166 (T).
11-24-42 11-24-42
0100 1200 Position 17-11-00 S., 167-20-54 E.
0513 1613 Changed course to 163 (T).
0709 1809 Exercised at General Quarters.
0750 1850 Had S.C. Radar contact bearing 260 (T), 4,400 yards.
0752 1852 Lost contact.
0809 1909 Secured from General Quarters.
0900 2000 Position 19-34-54 S., 168-07-24 E.
25 November 1942.
11-24-42 11-25-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming in company with the MORRIS, base course 163 (T),
speed 20 knots, station 2090, guide, MORRIS.
1428 0128 Course changed to 205 (T).
1526 0226 SC Radar contact, land, bearing 260 (T), 14 miles.
1654 0354 Exercised at General Quarters.
1754 0454 Secured from General Quarters.
1816 0516 Course changed to 195 (T).
2029 0729 Course changed to 240 (T).
2100 0800 Position 23-02-12 S., 167-49-18 E.
2225 0925 Course changed to 270 (T).
11-25-42 11-25-42
0000 1100 Course changed to 330 (T).
0034 1134 Sighted the SOUTH DAKOTA and two escorting destroyers,
bearing 305 (T), about 15 miles.
0100 1200 Position 22-57-12- S., 166-39-26 E. Courses and speed
made good since 1200 November 24, 1942: Courses. 195
(T), 193 (T), 273 (T). Speed 18 knots.
0155 1255 Course changed to 000 (T).
0203 1303 Sighted AMEDEE light house, bearing 000 (T), 10 miles.
0211 1311 Formed column. Took station 1000 yards astern of MORRIS.
0232 1332 Speed changed to 15 knots.
0312 1412 Proceeded to enter port.
0453 1553 Moored port side to the MORRIS in nest with the MORRIS
and SS J.C. DONNELL in DUMBEA BAY, NEW CALEDONIA.
0604 1704 Commenced receiving fuel oil from the SS J.C. DONNELL.
0640 1740 Completed fueling ship.
Rejoined Task Force 16.
0642 1742 Got underway to shift berths.
11-25-42 11-25-42
0732 1832 Anchored 200 yards 060 (T) from Berth A-11, Great Road,
New Caledonia.
0745 1845 MORRIS moored to port side.
26 November 1942
11-25-42 11-26-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Anchored 200 yards 060 (T) from Berth A-11, Great Road,
Noumea, New Caledonia. MORRIS moored to port side.
2305 1005 Got underway and stood out of the harbor.
11-26-42 11-26-42
0042 1142 Relieved the RUSSELL and commenced submarine search patrol
on arc 15 miles from AMEDEE light house. Speed 15 knots.
0100 1200 Position 22-35-18-S., 166-20-12 E.
0900 2000 Position 22-45-48-S., 166-27-30 E.
27 November 1942.
10-26-42. 10-27-42.
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming alone on submarine patrol on arc 15 miles
from AMEDEE light house, New Caledonia. Speed 15
knots.
2100 0800 Position 22-39-185 S., 166-20-12 E.
11-27-42. 11-27-42.
0100 1200 Position 22-42-58-S., 166-23-18 E.
0900 2000 Position 29-39-06-S., 166-16-00 E.
28 November 1942.
11-27-42 11-28-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Steaming alone on submarine patrol on arc 15 miles from
AMEDEE light house, Noumea, New Caledonia.
2100 0800 Position 22-42-54 S., 166-20-48 E.
11-28-42 11-28-42
0035 1135 Relieved by the RUSSELL. Proceeded for port.
0100 1200 Position: In channel proceeding to DUMBEA BAY.
0236 1336 Moored to the port side S.S. J.C. DONNELL, DUMBEA BAY,
Noumea, New Caledonia.
0255 1355 Commenced receiving fuel oil.
0330 1430 Completed fueling ship.
0338 1438 Got underway to shift berths.
0424 1524 Moored to the starboard side of the CLARK in Berth A-6,
Great Road, Noumea, New Caledonia.
29 November 1942.
11-28-42 11-29-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Moored to starboard side of the CLARK in Berth A-6,
Great Road, Noumea, New Caledonia.
2055 0955 Let go the starboard anchor.
2100 1000 CLARK got underway and stood out of the harbor.
11-29-42 11-29-42
0330 1430 RUSSELL moored to starboard side.
30 November 1942.
11-29-42 11-30-42
G.C.T. L.W.T.
1300 0000 Anchored in Berth A-6, Great Road, Noumea, New Caledonia
with the RSSELL moored to starboard side.
2110 1010 RUSSELL left from alongside.
11-30-42 11-30-42
0141 1241 Got underway.
0237 1337 Entered floating dry dock ARD-2 in Berth 58 DUMBEA BAY,
Noumea, New Caledonia.
0325 1425 Rested on keel blocks.
R. A. GUTHRIE,
Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy
Commanding.
Information on the ANDERSON
DICTIONARY OF FIGHTING SHIPS
History of the U.S.S. ANDERSON DD-411
Anderson (DD-411) was launched 4 February 1939 by Federal Shipbuilding and
Dry Dock Co., Kearny, N. J.; sponsored by Mrs. Mertie Lorain Anderson, widow
of Admiral Anderson; and commissioned 19 May 1939, Lieutenant Commander W. H
Hobby in command.
Anderson underwent a long period of tests and trials before joining Battle Force,
United States Fleet, in the Pacific as flagship of Destroyer Division
in May 1940. In June 1941 she returned to the Atlantic and during October and
November convoyed vessels between Ireland and Canada.
In December 1941 Anderson proceeded to the Pacific as part of the screen for
Battleship Division 3. She formed part of the screen for Yorktown (CV-5)
during the Battles of Cora1 Sea (7 May 1942) and Midway (3-6 June 1942).
Following escort missions during July and August, Anderson Joined the screen
for Hornet (CV-8) splashing several planes in the Battles of Eastern Solomons
(24 August 1942) and Santa Cruz (26 October 1942). Anderson screened
transports, carrying reinforcements to Guadalcanal during November, and
Enterprise during the strikes of 1-14 November. From December 1942 to March
1943 she operated out of Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, on anti submarine
patrols and escort duty. Returning to San Francisco 9 April, she underwent
overhaul and repairs until 8 June and then returned to the Pacific.
From July to September 1943 Anderson operated in Aleutian waters taking part
in the bombardments of Kiska (2 and 15 August). In September she steamed to
Wellington, New Zealand, where she joined the escort screen for the
transports destined to Tarawa. During the Tarawa landings (20 November-7
December 1943), she provided effective fire support. On 30 January 1944,
during the close inshore bombardment of Wotie Atoll Marshall Islands, an
enemy shell hit the bridge killing six men (including her captain, Commander
J. G. Tennent and wounding 14. The following day she screened the heavy
bombardment vessels at Kwajalein.
Badly damaged by grounding 1 February 1944, Anderson underwent repairs at
Pearl Harbor until 15 June. She then Joined the 7th Amphibious Force for the
landings at Cape Sansapor, New Guinea (1 18 August); Morotai landings (15
September); and Leyte (20 October). While Anderson was on patrol off Leyte 1
November 1944, a Japanese kamikaze crashed on her port side aft killing 18
men and wounding 20.
She returned to San Francisco 9 December for repairs before joining TG 92.2
at Attu, Alaska 11 May 1945. She participated in the bombardments of
Paramushiro, Kurile islands (19 May, 22 June, and 12 August); Matsuwa,
Kurile Islands (11-12 June and 12 August); the antishipping sweeps in the
Sea of Okhotsk (17-19 June and 17-22 July); and the 25 June attack on a
Japanese convoy west of the Kuriles.
During 8-22 September Anderson participated in the occupation of Northern
Honshu, Japan, and on 8 November she arrived at San Diego. There she was
stripped in preparation for use as a target in Operation Crossroads at Bikini
Atoll. She arrived at Bikini 30 May 1946 and on 1 July 1946 became one of the
four ships to sink as a result of Atomic Bomb Test Able.
For her operations in the Pacific, Anderson received ten battle stars.
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. ANDERSON
To learn more about the U.S.S. ANDERSON Please visit these
Web-site
Destroyer
History Foundation
Hullnumber.com
NavSource
Online Has photos of DD-411
Home
Mail any comments or questions to Scott Davis
All right reserved
©
Copyright 1997 - 2022