CA-33 U.S.S. PORTLAND
War Diary and Action Reports November 1942,
WAR DIARY
U.S.S. PORTLAND (CA-33) South Pacific Force
From November 1, 1942 to November 20, 1942
November 1, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
Anchored in Berth 10, Dumbea Bay, Noumea,
New Calendonia, Ships present: various
units of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, COMSOPAC
in ARGONNE is SOPA.
The PORTLAND is a unit of Task Force 16,
which is now at Noumea effecting temporary
repairs to the damage incurred to the
ENTERPRISE, SAN JUAN, SMITH, SOUTH DAKOTA,
and the steering units of the PORTLAND
during the air engagement with the Japanese
on October 26, 1942.
0000 0000 Wartime port routine in effect.
1817 0717 Underway to shift berths.
1901 1801 Anchored in berth A -4, Ile Nou, Noumea.
2001 0901 San DIEGO moored alongside.
2400 1300 Liberty was ranted the crew during our
stay here.
November 2, 1942.
0000 0000 Wartime port routine in effect.
1906 0806 CRESENT CITY stood in and moored.
November 3, 1942.
0000 0000 Wartime port routine in effect.
November 4, 1942.
0000 0000 Wartime port routine in effect.
1755 0655 General Quarters on signal from SOFA.
Enemy carrier reported sighted off the
Loyalty Island.
2021 0921 Set condition III.
November 5, 1942.
0000 0000 Port wartime routine in affect,
November 6, 1942.
0000 0000 Wartime port routine in effect.
November 7, 1942.
0000 0000 Wartime port routine in effect.
November 8, 1942.
0000-2400 Wartime port routine in effect.
2005 0905 NASSAU stood in and moored.
0210 1510 Stationed special sea details.
0255 1555 JUNEAU got underway and stood out.
0312 1612 Underway in accordance with Secret OP-Plan
’A’ -23-42. Duty with Task force 16 is now
completed. The PORTLAND is a unit of Task
Force 67. Captain DuBose is now ComTaskGroup
67.3, the surface attack group. This latter
will be in effect until joining Task Group
67.4. Rear Admiral Callaghan is ComTaskGroup
67.4. The purpose of this operation is to
land supporting troops in Guadalcanal. The
troops and supplies are on the four
accompanying transports: McCAWLEY, CRESCENT
CITY, PRESIDENT ADAMS, and PRESIDENT
JACKSON. ComTaskForce 67 is Rear Admiral
Turner, in the McCAWLEY. Task Group 67.4 is
to support the landing of the troops and
attack enemy ships which may be in the
vicinity. Task Force 67 is, at present,
composed of the McCAWLEY, CRESCENT CITY,
PRESIDENT ADAMS, PRESIDENT JACKSON,
PORTLAND, JUNEAU, MONSSEN, BART0N, and
O,BANNON.
0501 1801 Changed fleet speed and standard speed to
13.5 knots.
0525 1825 Passed Amedee Light abeam. Formed Cruising
Disposition ’AC’.
0600 1900 Fleet course and axis 303T.
November 9,l942.
G.C.T. L.C.T. 0114
1514 0414 General Quarters.
1345 0445 Zig-Zag plan #8.
1615 0515 Set condition III,
1800 0700 Changed fleet course & axis 325T, changed’
fleet speed 13 knots.
1900 0800 Lat. 20-55-00 S. Long. 163-44-00 E. Wind
18, SE. Sea condition 1, SE.
2300 1200 Lat. 20-46-07 S. Long. 163-15-07 E. Wind
8, SE. Sea condition 1. E. Distance made
good since 1200 yesterday 204 miles. Course
made good since 1200 yesterday 300 degrees.
Speed made good since 1200 yesterday 8.5
kts.
0125 1325 Changed fleet course & axis to 340T.
0130 1330 Catapulted 2 planes for simulated dive
bombing and torpedo attacks on this force.
0240 1540 ’D’ recovery of 2 planes.
0403 1703 JUNEAU made submarine contact. BART0N was
sent to investigate.
0614 1914 Ceases Zig-zag.
0700 2000 Lat. 18-56-00 S. Long. 167-38-00 E. Wind
6 knots, E. Sea condition 1, SE.
November 10, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
1528 0426 General Quarters.
1545 0445 Zig-zag plan #8.
1628 0528 Set condition III, condition Zed below
second deck.
1900 0800 Lat. 16-28-00 S. Long. 162-27-00E. Wind
12, E; sea condition 1, E.
2300 1200 Lat. 15-43-00 S. Long. 162-36-00 E. Wind 10
knots, SE. Sea condition l, SE. Distance made
good since 1200 yesterday 305 miles. Course
made good since 1200 yesterday 353 degrees.
Speed made good since 1200 yesterday 12.7
kts.
2350 1250 Rotate course & axis to O1OT.
0205 1505 U.S.S. SHAW sighted closing formation.
0317 1617 U.S.S. SHAW closed McCAWLEY to transfer
guard mail and personnel.
0433 1733 U.S.S. SHAW closed PORTLAND to transfer guard
mail.
0600 1900 Ceased zig-zag.
0617 1917 Starboard steering unit failed. Shifted to
the port Unit.
0650 1950 Set condition II.
0700 2000 Lat. 14-05-08 S. Long. 167057-00 E. Wind 14
knots. Sea condition 1, SE.
During the evening watch there were several
shifts or steering units with control
remaining on the bridge. The rudder was
observed to have a 4-5 degree bunting or
weaving motion.
November 11, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
1532 0432 General Quarters.
1600 0500 Zig-zag plan #8.
1620 0520 Catapulted 4 planes, Lt. R.E. Seibels, USN.,
Senior Aviator, for temporary duty at
Espiritu Santo to remain there until other
wise notified. Ceased zig-zag.
1632 0532 Set condition III.
1730 0630 Joined up with Task Group 67.4. Task Group
67.3 is now dissolved. Additional ships
present: SAN FRANCISCO, HELENA, STERRET
BUCHANAN, CUSHING, LAFFEY.
1737 0637 Changed course to 310T.
1837 0737 Changed fleet course to 330T.
1839 0739 Zig-zag plan #8.
1848 0748 Changed fleet course to 300T.
2000 0800 Lat. 11-35-03S. Long. 162-58-00 E. Wind 15,
SSE. Sea condition 2, SSE.
1955 0855 Changed fleet course to 240T.
2006 0906 Changed fleet course 330T.
2018 0918 Formed 2 section columns. PORTLAND leader of
section II.
2109 1009 Changed fleet course & axis to 300T.
2231 1131 General Quarters. Plane sighted on port
quarter identified as enemy petrol plane.
2300 1200 Lat. 11-75-02 S. Long. 162-26-00.E. Wind 16,
SSE. Sea condition 2, SSE. Distance made good
since 1200 yesterday 259 miles. Course made
good since 1200 yesterday 357 degrees. Speed
made good since 1200 yesterday 10.8 knots.
2305 1205 Set condition II.
2331 1231 Changed fleet speed 22 knots.
0303 1603 Changed fleet course 345T.
0405 1705 Changed fleet speed 25 knots.
0409 1709 Changed fleet course 000T.
0430 1730 General Quarters, sighted Guadalcanal Island
0530 1830 Formed column disposition, order of ships:
SAN FRANCISCO, HELENA, PORTLAND, JUNEAU.
0615 1915 Changed fleet course & axis to 315T.
0700 2000 Lat. 09-30-00 S. Long. 160-57-00 E. Wind 10
knots, SE. Sea condition 2, E.
0720 2020 Changed fleet course to 285T.
0730 2030 Changed fleet speed to 18 knots.
0833 2133 Sighted white 1ight on Pari Pile. The ATLANTA
and 3 destroyers joined the formation. Task
Group 67.4 now formed Battle Disposition
’B-1’, column of station units from the van
as follows: BUCHANAN, LAFFEY, STERRET,
CUSHING, SAN FRANCISCO, HELENA, PORTLAND,
JUNEAU, ATLANTA, AARON WARD, FLETCHER, and
LARDNER. Distance between destroyers 500
yards, between cruisers 700 yards.
0850 2150 Changed fleet course to 275T, speed 10 knots
entering Sealark Channel.
0920 2220 Changed fleet course to 258T.
0937 2237 Changed fleet speed to 15 knots.
0944 2224 Observed artillery fire on Guadalcanal.
2245 2345 Changed fleet course to 270T.
2250 2350 Sighted Savo Island bearing 317T.
2255 2355 Changed fleet course to 300T.
November12, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
1105 0005 Changed fleet course to 000T, by column
movement.
1115 0015 Changed fleet course to O6OT, by column
movement.
1253 0153 Changed fleet course to 260T, by column
movement.
1440 0340 Changed fleet course to 270T, by column
movement.
1459 0359 Changed fleet course to 000T, by Column
movement.
1512 0412 Changed fleet course to l80T, by column
movement.
1548 0458 Changed fleet course to 090T, by co1umn
movement.
1602 0502 Changed fleet speed to 15 knots.
1603 0503 Changed fleet course to 180T.
1618 0518 Changed fleet course to 090T.
1635 0535 Changed fleet speed to 10 knots.
1646 0546 Sound contact emergency turn to 000T.
1649 0549 Sunrise.
1656 0556 Changed fleet course to 140T.
1705 0605 On orders from CTE 67, took station in
eastern screening semi-circle 3000 yards from
transport group.
1737 0637 Set condition III.
1744 0644 General Quarters, shell hit water near
McCAWLEY.
1746 0646 HELENA left station to bombard Japanese
battery near Kokumbona.
1804 0704 Set condition III.
1900 0800 Lat. 09-23-02 S, Long. 160-01-07 E. Wind 5,
SE. Sea condition 1, SE.
2108 1008 Opened fire, following actions of JUNEAU and
Destroyer, on friendly planes. No damage
done.
2255 1155 CUSHING & BUCHANAN left formation to destroy
enemy landing boats sighted along the beach
near Tasafaranga.
2300 1200 Lat, 09-20-00 S. Long. 160-02-00 E, Wind 8,
SE. Sea condition 1 SE. Distance made good since
1200 yesterday 190 miles. Course made good
since 1200 yesterday 311 degrees. Speed made
good since 1200 yesterday 8.0 knots.
0020 1320 Stand by to repel enemy air attack, from CTF 67.
General Quarters. Transport group underway.
0054 1354 30 enemy planes due about 1415 from N.W. from
Cactus Control. Fleet course & axis 340T, speed
14 Knots. 3 columns of two transports or AK’s
in the center with combatant ships about 1000
yards from nearest AK. P0RTLAND’s station on
starboard quarter.
0107 1407 19 twin-engined planes sighted approaching from
over Tulagi, bearing 055T. Planes identified as
Mitsubishi heavy bombers, type 97.
0110 1410 Changed course to 340T.
0114 1414 Opened fire with main and A.A. batteries
0115 1415 Observed enemy plane, in flames, crash on main-
mast of SAN FRANCISCO.
0125 1425 Enemy planes bearing 110T, from Cactus Control.
Observed 9 planes down by A.A. fire and at
least 6 by fighters. 2 planes believed credited
to this vessel.
0200 1500 Set condition III upon receipt of "All clear"
from Cactus Control. Steadied on course 160T,
returning to Kokum with transports.
0218 1518 Resumed former patrolling station in same
sector.
0225 1525 Set condition II.
0530 1830 Set condition I.
0545 1845 Transport group underway to retire for the
night to the vicinity of Indispensable Straits.
Took station in column astern SAN FRANCISCO
on course 070T, speed 10 Knots.
0641 1941 Changed fleet speed to 15 knots, Task Group
67.4 supporting withdrawal of Transport Group.
Formed Battle Disposition B-1.
0700 2000 Lat. 09-17-05 S. Long. 160-21-00 E. Wind 8, SE.
Sea condition 1, SE.
0710 2010 Changed fleet course, and all future changes,
by column movement to 100T.
0912 2212 Changed fleet course to 180T.
0920 2220 Changed fleet speed to 18 knots.
0921 2221 Changed fleet course to 270T.
0937 2337 Changed fleet speed to 15 knots.
0947 2347 JUNEAU reported surface contact bearing 315T,
distant 17 miles.
November 13, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
1100 0000 Entered Lengo Channel from eastward searching
for Japanese surface forces to prevent
the bombardment of Henderson Field off Kokum.
1215 0115 Formation course 280T.
1224 0124 Speed l8 knots from CTG 67.4
1227 0127 HELENA reported 2 contacts, 310T distant
31900 yards, changed course to 310T.
1232 0132 Another contact in same vicinity. HELENA
reported contact speed 23 knots, course 105T.
1233 0133 Changed fleet course to 000T in column movement.
1235 0135 "We have 4 in a line" from HELENA to CTG 67.4.
1241 0141 As we changed course, our ’SG’ radar showed
4 ships in a SW to NE line. Third ship in line
appeared to be a battleship.
1242 0142 "We have about ten targets", from HELENA.
1246 0146 Column left 90° believe to have been ordered.
1250 0150 "All hands hold your course". Odd ships fire
starboard even to port. P0RTLAND had started
to turn left when about 5 enemy searchlights
illuminated from broad on the port bow to 30°
on the starboard bow. "Action Starboard" and
"Commence firing", on vessels in left group"
from Captain DuBose.
1251 0151 An enemy vessel illuminated by searchlight and
just as the ray illuminated this vessel, the
main battery opened fire at range of 6200 yards.
(See enclosure B). The 2nd salvo was fired
immediately after, and the destroyer exploded
and sank. This ship was identified as a Hibiki
class destroyer. Just after opening fire,
PORTLAND received a large caliber shell hit in
the starboard hanger. Commander T.R.Wirth,
Executive Officer received a shrapnel wound in
the right shoulder.
1252 0152 "Cease firing" from SAN FRANCISCO. P0RTLAND
reply "What is the dope? did you want to cease
fire?" "Affirmative from SAN FRANCISCO.
"All ships take course 000T" from SAN FRANCISC0.
P0RTLAND came round to 000T, continuing to fire.
At this time the 2nd target, definetly a cruiser
and probably a ’CA’ received two 9-gun salvos
with many hits observed This. cruiser could not
be positively identified because of the poor
visibility. The target burst into flames.
1258-30 0158-30 with all turrets loaded and ready for the 5th
salvo, a violent explosion occurred art. The
PORTLAND receive a torpedo hit on the Starboard
quarter at frame 134. Both inboard screws
were blown off, steering gear and steering
engine rooms flooded and rudder jammed at
5° right. The ship began to circle to the
right and it was impossible to steer manipulating
the engines. 4° list to starboard was
quickly removed by shifting fuel & water.
Turret #3 was jammed in train and elevation.
Shortly after this, after completing a full
turn a Haruna type battleship was picked up
by directors 1 and 2 to starboard. This ship
was clearly illuminated by flares and the fire
of at least 5 burning ships. Range was 4200 yards.
"Commence firing when on the target" from
Captain DuBose. Four 6 gun salvos were fired
at the target. Many hits were observed and
flames broke out immediately. The battleship,
at first, fired at us, but the shells passed
overhead. The two 14 inch. shell hits we received
proved to be bombardment shells and inflicted
a minimum of damage. At this point, the situation
was both critical and confusing. As we
continued to circle, it became impossible in
many cases to distinguish between friend and foe.
A large anti-aircraft cruiser was observed to
explode and disappear at this time.
1330 0230 "All ships show fighting lights momentarily"
from HELENA. PORTLAND complied. There was no
further firing from the P0RTLAND. No further
enemy targets presented themselves.
1335 0235 PORTLAND’S position; Lat. 09-18-00 S. Long.
159-58-00 E. But for a few sporadic outbursts
to the northeast, all firing had ceased. ’SG’
radar contacted 3 vessels retiring toward
Savo Island.
1345 0245 Action completed. HELENA ordered remaining
ships to form 18 and retire toward Sealark
Channel.
1400 0300 9 ships observed to be burning of which 5 were
major fleet units. (cruisers or battleships).
3 were ours, the ATLANTA, M0NSSEN & CUSHING.
A Nachi type cruiser was positively identified.
It sank before dawn. A Tenryu class light
cruiser was tentatively identified. It also
exploded and sank before dawn.
1430 0430 Picked up several survivors from our forces.
1530 0530 The following vessels in sight: ATLANTA
CUSHING, MONSSEN, all burning; AARON WARD;
Shigure type destroyer to westward of Savo
Island; Haruna type battleship and cruiser hull.
down to northwest
1649 0549 Sunrise.
1730 0630 Opened fire on positively identified Shigure
class destroyer at range 12500 yards with 6-gun
salvos. On the 6th salvo she exploded, rolled
over and sank in less than five minutes.
1758 0658 Enemy planes reported 324T, distant 42 miles.
1800 0700 AARON WARD was fired upon by Japanese battleship.
No hits. During this period a boat was
lowered over the side to pick up survivors.
On the approach of Higgins boats and SOC planes
based on Guadalcanal, the boat was picked up.
Captain DuBose requested by despatch to Radio
Guadalcanal the use of a tug, to tow the
PORTLAND.
1851 0751 Received a report that 4 enemy destroyers were
proceeding to the aid of the battleship.
1905 0805 Sighted tug, believed to be the BOBOLINK, on
the horizon.
2008 0908 Set condition III.
2013 0913 General Quarters. "Enemy planes coming in from
the northwest" from Cactus Control.
2053 0953 BOBOLINK arrived and was directed by Captain
DuBose to take the ATLANTA in tow and proceed
to Kikum. By manipulating the engines, by
backing, and with the aid of Higgins boats
pushing on the starboard bow, the PORTLAND
succeeded in moving toward Kikum in close
proximity to the BOBOLINK and ATLANTA.
2124 1024 Set condition III.
November 14, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
1112 0012 Received Pilot Harper from Shore Station.
1140 0040 Set condition III.
1218 0118 Anchored in Tulagi Harbor, Solomons Islands
in 39 fathoms of water. SOPA in PORTLAND.
1251 0151 General quarters. Japanese warships bombarded
Henderson Air Field on Guadalcanal.
1330 0230 Set condition III.
1628 0528 Underway to shift berths. Pilot Harper
conning.
1654 0554 Moored in Tulagi Harbor opposite ’PT’ base
in 19 fathom of water with anchor forward
and two quarter springs to shore.
2044 0944 Half masted colors and transferred remains
of battle casualties to shore for burial at
Government Cemetery, Tulagi, Solomon Islands.
2100 1000 1000-2400 wartime port routine in effect.
0145 1445 Commenced diving operations.
1016 2316 Observed what appeared to be a naval battle
in progress in the outer harbor in the vicinity
of Savo Island. Intercepted message saying
that our warships were engaging the enemy.
This action lasted until about 0400 Nov. 15.
November 15, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
0000-2400 Wartime port routine in effect.
2200 1100 Held divine services.
0230 1590 General Quarters. Stand by for air attack.
0410 1710 Set condition III. All Clear reported from
Cactus Control.
0805 2205 KOPARA anchored off our starboard bow.
November 16, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
0000-2400 Wartime port routine in effect.
0800 2100 Expert personnel came aboard with equipment
to effect emergency repairs to the damage
stern.
November 17, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
0000-2400 Wartime port routine in effect.
November 18, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
0000-2400 Wartime port routine in effect.
1630 0530 Kopara Got underway and stood out.
1747 0647 Sent out crash boat to assist ’PBY’ which
crashed taking off.
1818 0718 Crash boat returned; plane sank, crew taken
ashore.
1826 0726 HOVEY stood in and moored.
0110 1410 SOUTHARD stood in and moored.
November 19, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
0000-2400 Wartime port routine in effect.
0445 1745 McFARLAND came alongside and moored.
November 20, 1942.
G.C.T. L.C.T.
0000-2400 Wartime port routine in effect.
1758 0658 TREVER stood in and moored.
1804 0704 ZANE stood in and moored.
CA33/A16-3
Serial 073, 10-jrh.
U.S.S. PORTLAND
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L November 21, 1942.
From: Commanding Officer.
To : Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Via : (1) Commander Task Force 67.
(2) Commander South Pacific Forces.
Subject: Night Action between Task Force 67.4 and
Japanese Forces, November 13, 1942.
References: (a) U.S. Navy Regs., 1920, Arts. 712, 847(6),
948, and 2029.
(b) PacFlt Ltr. 11L-2.
(c) PacFlt Conf. Ltr. 24CL-42.
(d) CTF 67 Oplan Afirm 23-42.
Enclosure: (A) Report of Executive Officer, U.S.S. PORTLAND.
(B) Report of Gunnery Officer, U.S.S. PORTLAND.
1. At about 0000, November 13, 1942, Task Force 67.4
entered Lengo Channel from the Eastward, searching for
Japanese forces. (To prevent surface bombardment of
Guadalcanal airfield). At about 0151, in Latitude 09-20-
50, Long. 159-57-30 this vessel, as a unit of Task Force
67.4., participated in a surface action with Japanese
forces. The action lasted until about 0245.
2. Commander Task Force 67.4 Was in the SAN FRANCISCO.
Disposition was Battle Formation Baker One, column of
Station units in column; van unit CUSHING, LAFFEY, STERRET,
O’BANNON; base unit ATLANTA, SAN FRANCISCO, PORTLAND,
HELENA, JUNEAU; rear unit AARON WARD, BARTON, MONSSEN, and
FLETCHER; distance between destroyers 500 yards, between
cruisers and between units 700 yards.
3. Weather. The sky was mainly cloudy, with frequent intense
lighting. Wind from SSE, about 10 knots, barometer 29:76,
dry bulb 81°, wet bulb 78°, sea calm. Visibility 15 to 20
miles.
4. A chronological record of events follows:
Communications received or sent over the TBS are so marked.
All TBS transmissions are not clear, but the text is given
as recorded.
0000 - November 13, 1942. Task Force 67.4 entered Lengo
Channel from the Eastward, with Taivo Point
bearing; 240°T, distance two miles, and proceeded
through Lengo Channel skirting the North coast
of Guadalcanal at a distance of one to two miles.
Speed 15.0 knots.
0114 - TBS T.F. 6.7.4 from T.F. Comdr. "Keep well closed
up. Report any contacts immediately. Do not
answer."
0115 - Course 280° on TBS signal, speed still 15.0 knots,
position Lat. O9-23 S., Long. 160-06 E.
0124 - Speed 18.0 knots on TBS signal.
0127 - TBS SAN FRANCISCO from HELENA. "Two contacts,
310°, 31,900 yards."
Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "Take course 310°."
Ol32(about) TBS T.F. 67.4 from SAN FRANCISCO. "Guadalcanal
reports unidentified planes 000°, 26 miles."
TBS Contact 312°, 26,000 yards.
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from HELENA. "Contact course
105, Speed 23" (Note: An recorded).
TBS Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "Take course
000°."
TBS Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "Any of you boys
pick her up?" Answer negative.
0135 - PORTLAND c/c to 310°T, following column movement.
(Note) This entry may not be properly placed in TBS
sequence.)
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from O’BANNON. "45 from course
as you have directed. Distance 7". (Note: As
recorded).
TBS "All ships" (Note: Probably from van commander,
or ship in van) "Three unidentified ships bearing
approximately on our port bow from 45 degrees. Be
on the alert. That is on the new course." (Note:
As recorded).
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from HELENA. "We have four in a
line."
0140 - c/c by column movement to 000°T. Time of PORTLAND
change.
TBS O’BANNON or van unit) from SAN FRANCISCO.
"What is range?"
0142 - About this time the Sail George showed four ships
in a SW to NE line, Eastward of Savo. The third
ship from SW gave a large echo, believed to be a BB.
The other three were cruisers or DD’s. This force
was moving toward Florida Island.
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from HELENA. "Range 2,246."
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from CUSHING. "Looks like dead
ahead on port bow."
TBS Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "What is their
course?"
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from Van Unit. "There is a ship
crossing bow from port to starboard, range 4,000
yards, maximum."
TBS Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "What do you
make of it now?"
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from HELENA. "We have a total
of about ten targets."
TBS "FLETCHER have you come around yet?"
TBS "I have come 25 to left."
TBS "Can you let them have a couple of fish?"
"Wilco" "Do so."
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from HELENA. "Appear to be in
cruising disposition."
TBS Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "What is bearing
now."
0146 - At about this time, column movement 90°L to 270°
was believed ordered.
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from Van Unit. "They bear sixty
from last course you ordered."
TBS To or from HELENA. "Do you still have target
support." ?(Note: Support probably should read
"in sight").
TBS "There are some ships on starboard in cruising
disposition. Also a few on port. Stand by to
open fire."
TBS "ATLANTA what are you doing?"
TBS from ATLANTA. "We------------ destroyer."
TBS Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "Come back to
course as soon as you can. You are throwing
whole column into disorder."
TBS Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "What do you
have on starboard hand now?"
TBS Van Unit from SAN FRANCISCO. "Are you back?"
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from JUNEAU. "We have several
ships on starboard."
TBS "All hands hold your course."
0150(About) TBS "Odd ships commence fire to starboard,
even to port."
0150 - At about this time the PORTLAND was starting the
turn to the left to 270°. About five evenly spaced
enemy searchlights illuminated from about 45° on
the port bow to about 30° on the starboard bow.
Captain ordered "Action Starboard", and ordered
"Commence firing on vessels in left group". Firing
opened between both forces.
0152 - About this time the starboard battery was unmasked,
and the main and AA batteries commenced firing.
Visibility was poor from this point, due to own
gun flashes, burning ships, flares, and starshells.
At about this time enemy searchlights illumination
ceased. Own firing was continuous. An enemy
destroyer was blown from the water on our second
salvo.
0152-30 Received shell hit in starboard hanger. No fire,
negligible damage. Executive Officer received a
fragment wound in the right shoulder, and about
twelve men received fragment or shrapnel wounds
or bruises.
0153 - TBS From SAN FRANCISCO. "Cease firing own ships."
(Note: As recorded. This order was disregarded by
all vessels, apparently.)
TBS SAN FRANCISCO from PORTLAND. "What is the
dope, did you want to cease fire?" Answer from
SAN FRANCISCO. "Affirmative."
(About) TBS PORTLAND from SAN FRANCISCO. "All
ships take course 000°." Come right to 000.
Resumed fire, opening on enemy cruiser on starboard
beam, 7,000 yards.
0158-30 While loading for the third salvo to be fired at
the cruiser, the ship received a torpedo hit near
the stern on the starboard side, shearing the
inboard screws, flooding steering aft, and bending
out the shell plating on the starboard side to
form an extensive right rudder. Explosion centered
at frame 134. Ship began circling to right, and
turning could not be counteracted by the two
outboard screws. A four degree list to starboard
was promptly removed. As the first swing to the
right was completed a HARUNA type BB became clearly
visible. Fire was opened on the BB and continued
by the forward turrets through out the swing, four
hitting salvos being fired, range 4,000 yards.
Sometime later the HELENA drew forward along our
starboard side, and passed clear. At about the
same time a friendly destroyer was about 1,000
yards to port. The four salvos fired at the BB
concluded this vessels main battery firing. In
the confused picture of burning and milling ships
it became impossible to distinguish friend from
foe. The action drew away from this vessel. Star
shell illumination of the enemy was continued as
long as they remained within range.
0230 - (About) TBS All ships from HELENA. "Show fighting
lights momentarily." Fighting lights were lighted
and turned off.
0235 - PORTLAND position Lat. 09-18 S., Long,. 159-58 E.
Still turning in tight circles.
By this time most of the firing had ceased, with
some firing to Northward. About this time Sail
George observed three vessels retiring around Savo
Island. One passed to Southward, two to Northward.
About this time, or shortly after, HELENA ordered
our ships to form 18, to retire toward Sealark
Channel.
After the firing had (nearly died out or) stopped
(altogether), (about) nine ships were burning. One
appeared to be a Nachi class cruiser, which exploded
About 0400. Other occasional explosions were
observed on burning ships, and one Tenryu class
cruiser, or large DD, is believed to have blown up.
About 0400 the ATLANTA was observed to be burning.
0630 - Sank the Shigure class destroyer south of Savo
Island with six gun salvos, range 12,500.
0700 - Requested tow from ComNavAct., S.I.
0805 - Sighted BOBOLINK standing toward this ship.
0820 - Received damage report from ATLANTA, stating that
if tow was not available, conditions warranted
scuttling and requesting instructions. Directed
ATLANTA to act at discretion.
0908 - Set Condition III in attempt to rest crews which
had been in Condition I throughout two nights.
0913 - Enemy planes reported approaching from NNW.
Sounded General Quarters.
0953 - BOBOLINK reported. Directed her to tow ATLANTA
to Lunga beach. Both ATLANTA and this vessel
were still in waters off the Japanese held shores.
Meanwhile, with the aid of Higgins boats pushing
continuously on the starboard bow, this vessel
continued efforts to crab to the southeastward.
Only during the short arc of swing during which the
wind was on the starboard bow, did the effort
succeed in slight gains. During the morning
thirty four survivors from the BARTON, one from
the CUSHING, and three from the STERETT were
received. These survivors were picked up by our
motor whale boat, SOC planes, and Higgins boats
from Guadalcanal. All were transferred ashore
at Tulagi on 14 November, after treatment for
burns, contusion and broken 1egs and arms.
1024 - Set Condition III. Whenever Condition III was
set Condition ZED was kept in the second deck
and all spaces below that deck.
1035 - Received additional supply of blood plasma requested
from Guadalcanal.
1115 - ATLANTA reported flooding beyond pumping capacity
and jettisoning topside weights.
1205 - Enemy planes reported approaching, bearing 333°T,
35 miles. Sounded General Quarters.
1240 - Set Condition III.
1300 - YP239 reported and took a tow line. Since 0235
this vessel had succeeded in making four miles
toward Lunga. Position at this time was 09-21-30 S.,
159-57 E. Every conceivable maneuver had been
attempted to work the ship toward the shelter of
Lunga. All engine combinations had failed. The
port anchor had been streamed. Sea anchors from
canvas to garbage containers (5 Ft. diameter),
Streamed from the port quarter, could not perceptibly
reduce the rudder effect of the plating projecting
to starboard. The many sweeps of over ten hours of
nearly continuous circling had netted this gain
from the turns thru the wind quadrant, with the aid
or the resistance given by the Higgins boats on the
starboard bow. YP239 had insufficient power to
better matters.
1432 - BOBOLINK came along starboard side, abreast well
deck, having anchored ATLANTA off Lunga Point.
1447 - Enemy planes reported approaching from Northeast.
Sounded General Quarters.
BOBOLINK failed to counteract rudder effect at
position abreast well deck, quarter, and bridge,
all starboard. During these trials YP239 attempted
to hold the head to port with a tow line. This
attempt was or little benefit because of the
crafts low power and because, being fitted to
take a tow line over her stern, only, her rudder
was overcome and she dropped off, with a strain,
across our bow. The BOBOLINK was ordered, in
time, to nose against the starboard bow, forward
or the bridge, and the YP239 was toe-ed in alongside
the tug. This arrangement, with the backing of
his vessels port propeller, overcame the rudder
effect and contributed an advance of from two
to three knots.
1722 - Headed for Tulagi.
1810 - Set Condition III.
1850 - Sighted red flare and red steady light near
Savo Island. Received report of enemy BB near
Sandfly passage.
2000 - Position 09-17 S., 160-03 E.
2315 - Sighted two small vessels sent out to assist
this vessel into Tulagi Harbor.
14 November, 1942.
0012 - Received pilot, Captain Harper.
0040 - Set Condition III.
0108 - Anchored in Tulagi Harbor.
0151 - Received report Guadalcanal (Henderson Field) was
under attack. Sounded General Quarters.
0215 - Japanese BB bombard Guadalcanal.
0230 - Set Condition III.
5. Ammunition expended by this vessel in the night
action totaled one hundred and fifty rounds of 5"
starshells and ninety rounds of 8" A.P., fired at targets
as follows:
Target Turrets Salvos Rounds
DD I and II 2 12
Cruisers I, II and III 2 18
BB I and II 4 24
DD(daylight) I and II 6 36
90
6. Summary of damage to Enemy.
A. By PORTLAND.
1. Hibiki class DD sunk during action.
2. Several hits on unidentified cruiser.
3. Hit HARUNA type BB many times (estimated 10 to 14 hits),
with four salvos, at about 4,000 yards.
4. Sank SHIGURE type DD off Savo Island at 0630.
B. Observed by PORTLAND in addition to (A) above.
1. One large vessel, at least light cruiser, blew up
during the action. At least three destroyers,
unidentified, were seen to blow up.
2. After the action, and at about 0300, nine ships were
burning, only three of which could have been friendly,
the ATLANTA, CUSHING AND MONSSEN. 0330 NACHI type
cruiser (or possibly HARUNA type BB) blew up, and
a TENRYU, or possibly a heavy DD also. At daylight,
one HARUNA type BB (later hit by Guadalcanal
aircraft), and one unidentified cruiser, were NW
of Savo.
7. Damage incurred by PORTLAND.
A. Torpedo hit on starboard side at about frame 134. All
decks and ships side blown away from frame 125 to 139,
except for shell plating on port side and some framing
attached thereto; and buckle damage from frame 139 aft.
Shell and frames gone from baker strake starboard to
main deck. Shear line in way of damage on port side
not distorted. Propellors two and three sheared off.
Rudder jammed right five degrees. Number three turret
unseated and out of commission.
Damage to compartments as follows:
Legend:- D-Destroyed F-Flooded
R-Ruptured FL-Flooded, later pumped dry
Second Deck First Platform
D-203-L (CPO) D D-311-L D
D-203-- Partly D D-310-L D
D-307-L R-about 3’ of water.
D-309-T D
D-304-E F-About 3’ of water.
D-305-E (Ice Mach.) FL
D-303-A (Cold Stor.) Partly F
Second Platform Hold
D-414-W D D-504-V D
D-413-E (Steering gear) D D-505-V D
D-16-A D D-506-V D
D-14-A D D-507-V D
D-412-E (Motor Rm.) D D-508-V D
D-17-A D
D-15-A D
D-13-A D
D-12-A Partly F-3 of water
#2 Low pressure turbine badly damaged.
Numerous electrical grounds and ruptured connections.
B. Shell hit on starboard side, frame 68, at second deck
level; negligible damage except Degaussing cable ruptured.
C. Shell hit in starboard hanger at frame 81, above
mezzanine deck; large hole in side plating, negligible
damage.
D. Several shell hits from 40mm or slightly larger
projectile.
8. Casualties to personnel.
A. Lieut. R.H. Williams, (MC), U.S. Navy, Scott Davis Sea1c
and eight men killed in action.
B. Nine men missing in action.
C. Commander T.R. Wirth, U.S. Navy, and 16 men injured in
action.
9. Commendations will be forwarded by separate
letter.
10. Subject to the trying limitation imposed by damage, the
ship operated and handled satisfactorily. The engineering
plant stood up well under the shock of the torpedo
explosion, as did the entire vessel’s structure. The main
and five inch batteries functioned well. The fire control
and fire effect are considered to have been excellent. The
ship’s company, without exception, performed their arduous
duties magnificently throughout fifty seven trying and
exhausting hours, including two actions. Their bearing,
through all, was inspiring.
11. In conclusion the following comment is submitted:
It is believed that the remarkable success with which the
force met was due primarily to the circumstance that the
enemy was surprised at the moment he was prepared to
commence bombardment of Guadalcanal. Apparently his guns
and hoists were loaded with this type of ammunition.
Neither of the two fourteen inch hits made on this vessel
penetrated the side, both exploding instantaneously on the
ship’s side.
L.T. BuBose.
Advance copy to Cincpac.
Copy to war diary.
November 19, 1942.
From: Acting Executive Officer.
To : Commanding Officer.
Subject: Night action on Nov. 13, 1942.
Reference: (a) U.S. Navy Regs., 1920, Art. 948.
1. Having assisted in the preparation of the Commanding
Officer’s report on the subject action, 1 report
Herewith in compliance with reference (a), that I have
nothing further to add to the Commanding Officer’s report.
W.E. Guitar.
CA33/A9/AM93 90-bd
November 14, 1942
C O N F I D E N T I A L
From: Gunnery Officer.
To : Commanding Officer.
Subject: Report of surface engagement off Save Island,
night of 12-13 November, 1942.
1. The following narrative regarding the night action
off Savo Island, night of 12-13 November, 194?, in
submitted.
2. Events leading up to the action, being included in
separate report, are omitted.
3. Upon clearing Lango Channel at 0115, Ammunition Condition
One was set in the Main and Secondary batteries. The
condition of the ship’s armament at this time was excellent
with the following exceptions:
(a) The FC radar on the forward main battery director was out,
with numerous shorts in the transmitter condensers.
(b) The FD radar on the starboard A.A. Director was out, never
having been reliable since installation.
(c) Automatic transmission to the starboard search lights was
out, as a result of gunfire shick during the torpedo plane
engagement of the preceding day.
(d) The Mark 14-3 sight of No. 4 one point one director had
been damaged beyond repair during the air attack on Task
Force Sixteen on October 30, and replacement had not yet
been received.
4. At about 0127, while on course 280, speed 18, the first
radar contact with the enemy was reported by the U.S.S.
HELENA, range 31-900 yards, bearing, 310°. At about 0142
the PORTLAND made her first radar contact on SG radar,
showing about three echoes from 305 T. to 320 T. range
11,000 to 14,000 yards. The FC radar on main battery
director two then picked up the contact about 30 degrees
on the port bow, and tracking was commenced by the plotting
room.
5. At about 0146 our leading destroyers made a column
left 90 degrees, reporting that enemy groups were on both
bows on present course. They were followed in turn by
succeeding ships in the column. Just as the PORTLAND came
up to the turn and put over the rudder, an enemy vessel on
our port bow illuminated our leading destroyers. Several
other enemy ships in this group illuminated immediately
thereafter, and ships at the head of our column counter-
illuminated. Fire was opened by both forces practically
simultaneously. At the same time another group of enemy
ships further to the right, also turned on searchlights.
6. "Action Starboard" was given by the Commanding Officer,
followed by orders to open fire on enemy vessels of the
left group. During the turn the main battery was kept
on the designated bearing by radar contact and the plotting
room obtained an approximate solution on the target. As
soon as the PORTLAND swung sufficiently left to unmask the
starboard A.A. battery, illumination by starshells was
begun. By this time an enemy vessel on the designated
bearing, which had just turned on her searchlights, was
picked up optically by main battery director one. The
plotting room solution was verified by Spot One, and fire
was opened at range 6200 yards by turrets I and II, Turret
III not yet having had opportunity to match up. When the
first salvo landed at least four bursts of flame leapt from
the enemy vessel, which by this time was recognized as a
destroyer. The second salvo was fired and the destroyer
exploded and sank immediately. This vessel was later
identified from silhouettes as or the HIBIKI class, and
probably was the AKUTSUKI.
7. Check fire was given and a new target picked up on about
the same bearing, range about 7000 yards. Visibility at
this point was poor, as flares were burning between the two
forces and the smoke from gunfire was getting heavy. This
second target was not positively identified, but is
believed to have been either a light or heavy cruiser. Two
nine-gun salvos were fired, and several hits from each
salvo were observed. The after FC radar was functioning
perfectly and the opening range was right on. The ship
began to burn at several points. Just as the turrets were
completing their loads for the third salvo (fifth of the
action) a violent explosion occurred aft, which proved to
be a torpedo hit in the starboard quarter at frame 135.
Just previously enemy destroyers had been reported on the
starboard quarter close aboard, the A.A. battery had fired
a search spread of starshells in that direction without
seeing anything. However, the wake of the torpedo was seen
coming from the starboard quarter.
8. The ship immediately began to swing hard right, and
steering control was completely lost. During the
remainder of the engagement (and up to the present
writing), it was impossible to maneuver the ship by the
engines in other than a tight right-hand turn. Turret III
was jammed, in elevation and train by this explosion, but
otherwise the ship’s armament was unpaired. The two
inboard propellers were blown off, but speeds up to 20
knots were maintained when necessary, and the ship remained
steaming in a tight circle until daylight.
9. A very short time after the torpedo hit, when the ship
had made a full turn, a HARUNA type battleship was picked
by directors one and two to starboard. This ship was
adequately illuminated by the many flares and stars which
were everywhere, as well as the fires of several burning
ships. The after FC radar functioned sporadically due to
excessive vibration, but a range of 4200 yards was obtained
which proved excellent. Fire was opened when the
battleship was almost dead ahead, and four six-gun salvos
were fired as we swung around. The battleship was firing
at us, but practically all of her salvos were passing
overhead. We were hit twice by what appeared to be 14-inch
bombardment shells which dissipated their force without
serious penetration of our starboard side. These hits are
fully described in the damage report. The battleship was
an excellent target, and was hit many times by all four
salvos. Flames broke out immediately, and were
particularly fierce around the pagoda superstructure.
10. As we continued to swing in a circle the situation at this
point became extremely confused, and it was impossible in
many instances to distinguish friend from foe. A large
ship, at least the size of a light cruiser, blew up in a
tremendous blast and vanished. The SAN FRANCISCI was
identified, burning rather badly but still firing. The
HELENA came by close aboard with all guns blazing. No
other ships could be identified at this time, and the
action began to draw away from us. Orders were received at
about this time from Commander Task Group 67.4 to turn on
recognition lights, which was done for a short time by this
ship. Due to smoke and flares it was impossible to tell
whether any other ship complied, as no recognition lights
could be distinguished by this ship.
11. The starboard searchlights and 5"/25 cal. Guns numbers 5
and 7 were now out of commission, caused as was later
discovered by the 14 inch shell hit in the starboard hanger
which ruptured the power cables. As no further recognized
target presented itself, the action was over insofar as we
were concerned.
12. A short time thereafter the action dwindled to a few
sporadic outbursts for a brief interval, and then died out
all together. The time off the action was from 0151 to
0245. The PORTLAND continued to steam in a circle, and we
were surrounded by nine burning ships, all lying to or
moving very slowly. We could identify the ATLANTA, lying
about 5000 yards to the southward and burning badly. A
NACHI type cruiser lying to the northwest was positively
identified. She burned fiercely for a long time with the
entire hull and superstructure glowing, and sank before
daylight. Another vessel burning to the northward was
tentatively identified as a TENRYU class light cruiser, as
she appeared to have three stacks. This vessel might have
been a large destroyer, and exploded and sank before
daylight.
13. At daylight, about 0530, the following ships were in sight:
(a) ATLANTA, lying to but not burning, 5000 yards to southward.
(b) A SHIGURE class destroyer lying to, not burning 12,500
yards to westward, just south of Savo Island.
(c) CUSHING, burning badly, 8000 yards to northwest.
(d) MONSSEN, burning badly, 10,000 yards to northward.
(e) A HARUNA class battleship and one unidentified Jap cruiser
hull down, 35,000 yards to northwest.
(f) ARRON WARD, 15,000 yards to northward.
14. At 0630, after positively identifying the SHIGURE class
destroyer, we opened fire on it, range 12,500 yards. Six
six-gun salvos were fired, she was hit several times, and
when the sixth salvo landed her after magazines blew high
in the air and she sank immediately. It was noted that two
small boats were standing by her at the time.
15. At about 0700, the Japanese battleship fired two single gun
salvos at the ARRON WARD. No hits were obtained.
16. A tow was requested from Tulagi, and while waiting the
Portland Put over a boat which picked up survivors. As
Higgins boats from Cactus, which had been requested earlier
by this vessel, arrived a short time later as several SOC’s
were engaged in rescue work, the PORTLAND did not stop
again for survivors.
17. At 0953 the BOBOLINK arrived and was directed by the
PORTLAND as SOPA to take the ATLANTA in tow. This vessel
attempted to work herself toward Kukum, and with the aid of
Higgins boats pushing against the starboard bow, and the
alternate backing and going ahead on the engines, succeeded
in moving along in proximity to the ATLANTA and BOBOLOINK.
18. At about 1400 Commanding Officer, of the ATLANTA stated
that he was unable to check flooding and would have to
abandon and scuttle ship. Authority was granted to do so
by Commanding Officer, PORTLAND as S.O.P.A. The crew of
the ATLANTA was taken off by Higgins boats and The
demolition party set to work.
19. At 1432 the BOBOLINK and YC236 came alongside this ship’s
starboard bow. By joint use of these vessels and the
ship’s engines, a speed of about three knots was maintained
and Tulagi was reached at about 0110.
E.W SHANKLIN,
Lieut.-Comdr., U.S. Navy.
File No. 05/hw
FE25/A16-3(3)
AMPHIBIOUS FORCE
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
Office of the Commander
Serial TS133
U.S.S. McCAWLEY, Flagship,
November 29, 1942.
C-O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L
FIRST ENDORSEMENT to
CO PORTLAND conf. Ltr.
CA33/A16-3 serial 073
Of November 21, 1942.
From: Commander Task Force SIXTY SEVEN.
To : Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Via : Commander South Pacific Force.
Subject: Night Action between Task Force 67.4
and Japanese Forces, November 13, 1942.
1. Forwarded.
R.K. TURNER
Copy to:
Comairsopac
SOUTH PACIFIC FORCE
A16-3/(90) December 9, 1942.
Serial 00114c
SECRET
SECOND ENDORSEMENT to
CO PORTLAND conf. ltr.
CA33/A16-3 serial 073
of November 21, 1942.
From: The Commander South Pacific Area and South Pacific
Force.
To : The Commander in Chief, U.S. PACIFIC FLEET.
Subject: Night Action between Task Force 67.4 and Japanese
Forces, November 13, 1942.
1. Forwarded.
2. The PORTLAND’s performance was most commendable especially
as regards ship and damage control. The sinking of an enemy
destroyer by PORTLAND 3 hours and 45 minutes after the
first night action while still out of control and steaming
in circles was one of the hip, lights of this action.
3. Specific comments are as follows:
(a) Conditions noted in Enclosure (B), paragraphs 3 (a) and 3
(b) were never brought to the attention of Commander South
Pacific Force. Responsibility for initiating action to
correct such all important deficiencies rests with the
Commanding Officer. Competent radar repair units which have
been functioning in this area for some time are believed
capable of maintaining all types of radars in a satis
factory state of material readiness.
(b) Enclosure (B), paragraph 6. With normal functioning and
operation of fire control radars, withholding fire to
verify solution optically is not required nor recommended.
Greater reliance must be placed on the excellent fire
control radars installed.
(c) Enclosure (B), paragraph 7. The use of starshells is
questionable. Accurate information of enemy ships should
have been obtained from the SG and SC radars and fire
promptly opened with the 5-inch battery.
4. Classification of this correspondence has been changed from
"Confidential" to "Secret", and by copy of this endorsement
the originator is directed to change his copy accordingly.
s/ W.F. HALSEY.
Copy to:
CTF 67
CO USS PORTLAND
Comairsopac
History of the U.S.S. PORTLAND CA-33
Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships
U.S.S. Portland CA-33
The first PORTLAND (CA-33), a heavy cruiser, was authorized
13 February 1929; laid down by Bethlehem Steel Co., Shipbuilding
Div., Quincy, Mass. 17 February 1930; launched 21 May 1932;
sponsored by Mrs. Ralph D. Brooks of Portland; and commissioned
23 February 1933, Captain H. F. Leary in command.
Departing Boston 1 April 1933, the cruiser arrived Gravesend
Bay, N.Y., the evening of 3 April. The next night, she received
word that dirigible AKRON was down at sea. Thirty-six minutes
after receipt of the message the ship was underway. Racing
seaward, she was the first naval vessel at the scene of the
disaster, and the task of search and rescue coordination was
thus hers. Seventy-three lives were lost in the disaster
including that of Admiral William Moffett, Chief, Bureau of
Aeronautics.
PORTLAND steamed from San Diego, Calif. 2 October 1935
astern HOUSTON (CA-30) which carried President Franklin D.
Roosevelt. The following days the President and his party
fished. After calling at Panama and several other ports, the
two ships steamed to Charleston, S.C. where the President
disembarked.
During Pacific Fleet maneuvers, PORTLAND crossed the equator
for the first time 20 May 1936. From thence until the outbreak
of war, she was engaged in peacetime training and goodwill
missions as a unit of Cruiser Division 5, Scouting Force.
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, PORTLAND was two
days out, enroute Midway with a carrier group. Through the
remainder of December and until 1 May 1942, she operated
between the west coast, Hawaii, and Fiji.
PORTLAND served in Rear Admiral T. C. Kinkaid's Attack Group
4-8 May when a Japanese invasion force was turned back from Port
Moresby, New Guinea during the two-day battle of the Coral Sea.
When LEXINGTON (CV-2) was lost, the cruiser took on 722
survivors. She was in Rear Admiral F. J. Fletcher's TF 17
carrier screen during the Battle of Midway (2-6 June) when the
Japanese lost four of their carriers. PORTLAND provided cover
and support for the Marine landings at Tulagi and Guadalcanal,
the Solomons, 7 through 9 August. She then remained in the area
to support the Guadalcanal operations and to protect Allied
communications lines.
The cruiser participated in the Battle of the Eastern
Solomons, 23-25 August, when Allied forces prevented
reinforcement of Japanese units in the Solomons by a large naval
armada under Admiral Yamamoto. She then steamed south to take
part in the Battle of Santa Cruz, 26-27 October, as one of the
escorts for ENTERPRISE (CV-6). Two weeks later, she
participated in the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal (12-15 November)
which resulted in heavy damage to both forces but broke up the
determined Japanese effort to disrupt the landing of 6,000
American troops on Guadalcanal, to bombard Henderson Field, and
to land reinforcements.
During this action, 13 November 1942, PORTLAND took a
torpedo hit at 0158 on the starboard quarter, which blew off
both inboard propellers, jammed the rudder five degrees right,
and jammed number three turret in train and elevation. A four
degree list was quickly corrected by shifting ballast, but the
steering casualty could not be overcome and the ship was forced
to steam in circles to starboard.
At the end of the first circle, a Japanese battleship,
illuminated by nearby burning ships and flares, was taken under
fire by PORTLAND's forward turrets. The enemy returned the
fire, but all salvos passed over the cruiser. In the four six-
gun salvos returned by PORTLAND, she succeeded in starting fires
in the Japanese heavy. Then again at 0630, still circling,
PORTLAND opened fire on an enemy destroyer at a range of six
miles. On the sixth salvo the destroyer exploded, rolled over,
and sank within five minutes.
With the assistance of Higgins boats, a YP, and a tug,
PORTLAND anchored at Tulagi 14 November. From there she was
towed to Sydney, Australia for preliminary repairs prior to
overhaul in the United States. Following short stops at Samoa
and Pearl Harbor, the ship arrived Mare Island Navy Yard 3 March
1943.
After operational training in southern Californian waters,
PORTLAND steamed for the Aleutians late in May, arriving 11 June
and bombarding Kiska 26 July. After covering a reconnaissance
landing on Little Kiska 17 August, she called at Pearl Harbor 23
September, thence to San Francisco in early October, then back
to Pearl Harbor in mid-October.
From November 1943 through February 1944, PORTLAND
participated in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaigns. She
next screened carriers during air strikes against Palau, Yap,
Ulithi, and Woleai, 30 March-1 April.
The ship then steamed with a carrier force assigned to cover
the landing in the Hollandia-Tanahmerah area of New Guinea, 21-
24 April. Cruising northward again the force struck at Truk
and, in company with five other cruisers and destroyers,
PORTLAND bombarded Satawan in the Nomei Group.
Following this series of operations, PORTLAND steamed for
Mare Island for overhaul, completed in time for her return to
the western Pacific for pre-landing bombardments of Peleliu,
12-14 September. The cruiser supported the landing on Peleliu
15 September, and, for the four following days, her guns blasted
enemy positions that threatened the advance of allied forces.
She provided gunfire support at Peleliu through 29 September and
then steamed for Seeadler Harbor, Manus, the Admiralties.
PORTLAND next joined a powerful force in the first heavy
surface strike on the central Philippines. She arrived off
Leyte 17 October, entering the Gulf the next day--two days
before A-Day. For those two days her guns softened up enemy
held positions in preparation for the landing.
The night of 24 October, a strong Japanese force consisting
of two battleships, one heavy cruiser, and four destroyers
headed for Surigao Strait with the apparent intent of raiding
shipping in Leyte Gulf. The Japanese force advanced in rough
column up the narrow strait during darkness, while PORTLAND and
her sisters steamed across the top of the strait, crossing the
enemy's T. The Japanese were first met by PT boats, then in
succession by three coordinated destroyer torpedo attacks, and
finally, by devastating gunfire from American battleships and
cruisers disposed across the northern end of the strait. The
Japanese force was utterly defeated, losing two battleships and
three destroyers.
From 3 January through 1 March 1945, PORTLAND participated
in the operations at Lingayen Gulf and Corregidor. Arriving off
Lingayen Gulf 5 January and bombarding the vicinity of Cape
Bolinao, she entered the Gulf the same day and commenced
bombardment of the eastern shore but discontinued immediately
when a heavy suicide air attack came in.
PORTLAND entered Manila Bay 15 February and bombarded the
south shore of Corregidor in preparation for landings there.
She returned to Leyte Gulf 1 March for her first availability
for repairs, and replenishment of general stores in five months.
From 26 March through 20 April, while conducting operations
in support of the Okinawa campaign, PORTLAND underwent twenty-
four air raids, shot down four enemy aircraft and assisted in
downing two others. From 8 May until 17 June, she participated
in the bombardment and capture of Okinawa, departing 17 June for
upkeep at Leyte. At Buckner Bay, 6 August, she commenced upkeep
and training.
With the termination of hostilities, PORTLAND was designated
flagship of Vice Admiral George D. Murray, Commander, Marianas,
who was to accept the surrender of the Carolines. The ship
steamed to Truk Atoll and there Admiral Murray, acting for Fleet
Admiral Nimitz, accepted the formal capitulation of the senior
Japanese military and civilian officials in ceremonies on
PORTLAND.
PORTLAND called at Pearl Harbor 21-24 September, there
embarking 600 troops for transportation to the United States.
Transiting the Panama Canal 8 October, she continued too the
U.S., calling at Portland, Maine for Navy Day celebrations 27
October. She reported 11 March 1946 to the Philadelphia Naval
Shipyard for inactivation and assignment to the Reserve Fleet.
She decommissioned at Philadelphia 12 July 1946 and was
maintained in reserve status until struck from the Navy List 1
March 1959. The cruiser was sold to Union Mineral and Alloys
Corp., New York, N.Y. 6 October 1959 and scrapped.
PORTLAND received sixteen battle stars for World War II
service.
Portland Class
CA-Heavy Cruisers
CA-33 PORTLAND
CA-35 INDIANAPOLIS
Completed:
1932-33
Displacement (tons):
9,800 (stand)
14,000 (Mean war service)
Length (oa):
610’
Beam:
66’
Draft (max):
22’
Armament (max auth):
9 8"/55
8 5"/25 DP
4 40 mm twins (none on CA 35)
4 40 mm quads (6 on CA 35)
12 20 mm
Propulsion:
Speed:
32 knots (max)
Max. Cruising radius:
4,700 miles @ 25 knots
9,800 @ 15 knots
Horsepower:
107,000 (shaft)
Drive:
4 screws
geared turbine
Fuel:
3,061 tons oil (max)
Aircraft:
3 SC-1
Remarks:
The PORTLAND follows the general design of the NORTHAMPTON Class
with minor alterations, including 10 ft. additional length and a
redistribution of weight throughout the ship in favor of improved
protection.
War losses include:
CA-35 INDIANAPOLIS
Links to other web-sites with information on the
U.S.S. PORTLAND
To learn more about the U.S.S. PORTLAND Please visit these
Web-site
U.S.S. PORTLAND Home Page Has information of CA-33
NavSource Online Has photos of CA-33
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