DD-488 USS McCalla


Class: Gleaves
Commissioned May 13 1942
Length Overall 348' 3"
Extreme Beam: 36' 4'
Standard Displacement tons
Normal Displacement tonsl:
1,620
2,030
Max Draft:
Mean Draft;
14'
Ships Company: Off. 16; Enl.: 260
Armament: Primary: (4) 5"/38 cal. DP
Armament: Secondary: (2) 40mm twin
(7) 20mm
Armament: Torpedo Tubes: (1) 21" quint.
ASW: (6) DCP
Designed Speed: 37.5 knots
Designed Shaft Horse Power: 50,000 shp
Screws: 2
Engine Manufacturer: Beth
Type: Turbine
Fuel (oil) tons 503


             


S E C R E T


WAR DIARY




UNITED STATES SHIP McCalla (DD488)


From: 1 November, 1942. To: 30 November, 1942.




Original to Chief of Naval Operations (Office of Naval Records and Library).


War Diary of the United States Ship McCalla


                                                      November 1, 1942.

(a)  Composition and Designation of Unit.  Designation of next higher 
     echelon and major task force, or fleet:  T.G. 65.8 (Cactus Group) 
     Atlanta (OTC and CTG).

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or order of the 
     immediate superior:
     Comsopac 290942 of October, also 291002 of Oct. Comtaskfor 65 
     Serials 001, 002and 003 dated 1 Nov. (Annex to CTF 65 opPlan "C1" 
     given in his Oct. dispatch 291300.

(c)  Changes in the tasks of the unit, Since (b) was issued:

(d)  Positions............0800:  15-37.0 S     167-24 E
                          1200:  14-12.5 S     166-41 E
                          2000:  13-03.0 S     165-29 E

     Course & Speed 1200 to 1200:

     Meteorological and sea infor-
     mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operations:

     Enroute from Espiritu Santo (and rendezvous previous day with 
     T.Gr. 65.5) to Lunga Point, Guadalcanal, Is. With reinforcements 
     for that advanced base.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions reached:
     * See (b) above.

(g)  Note if battle or action report attached ___No___.

T.G. 65.8 Cactus Group  (TGr 65.1, Hunter Liggett, Barnet, President 
                         Hayes - TGr 65.2 and 65.3, Atlanta, Sterrett,
                         Gwin, Walke, Aaron Ward, Fletcher, Lardner,
                         Benhorn, McCalla)

T.G. 65.9 Aolo Group    (65.5 Manley, McKean, Neville, Heywood,
                         Formalhout - 65.6, 65.7, Pensacola, Preston,
                         Mustin, Anderson)

T.G. 65.4               (San Francisco, Helena, Buchanan, Laffey) 


                                                      November 2, 1942.

(a)  Composition and Designation of Unit.  Designation of next higher 
     echelon and major task force, or fleet:  
     Same except Units split up forming two striking groups during 
     retirement transports to South.

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or order of the 
     immediate superior:
     See (f) below.

(c)  Changes in the tasks of the unit, Since (b) was issued:
     See (f) below.

(d)  Positions............0800:  11-13.1 S     163-51.8 E
                          1200:  10-21   S     166-18.5 E
                          2000:  10-36   S     165-39.2 E

     Course & Speed 1200 to 1200:

     Meteorological and sea infor-
     mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operations:
     Enroute from Espiritu Santo to Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is. 

     Rendezvous with T.Gr. 61.9 (Pensacola plus 4 DD's) 

     Reversed course on approaching Indispensible Straits.  Transports
     Headed South on rounding San Cristobal, Island, Striking
     Force headed West.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions reached:
     Due indications received by Comsopac and air search contacts
     CTF decided postpone landings of troops and equipment.
     Comsopac 020759 (BELOW) *

(g)  Note if battle or action report attached ___No.___.

 *   Comsopac 020825 - Scott and Callaghan to concentrate with all
     units less transport and four escorts-to cover retirement of
     the latter.

ASW-1 CONFIDENTIAL ANTISUBMARINE ACTION BY SURFACE SHIP U.S.S.___McCalla___ Date___2 November___, 1942. Time 1st Contact___1720___GCT. Lat._10°-53'_ Lat._161°50'_ Course_295_ Speed__15__kts. Convoy course_295__ INSTRUCTIONS (a) ATTACK FIRST--Then collect data for this report (b) Do not "gun deck" this report. If data cannot be estimated with accuracy enter a dash in the space for which no data are available. (c) Draw circle around the appropriate entry in this report wherever suitable. (d) Ships equipped with DRT submit pencil tracing od ship's track from time of first contact to termination of operation. (e) If more than one attack was made on same submarine, submit a separate form for each attack. (f) If Range Recorder used submit trace. 1. CIRCUMSTANCES AT TIME OF CONTACT Employment of Ship: Light: Sea: Wind: Sub First Reported by- Patrol. Sunny. Smooth. Force. 2 Attacking ship. Escort of convoy. No.______ Clear. Whitecaps. Direction. Other ship. Inner A/S screen. Overcast. Moderate. E T. Aircraft. Intermediate A/S screen. Rain. Heavy. Rel. Radar. Outer A/S screen. Fog. Water. Depth of Range. 16,000 Independent. Moonlight. Temp. 84 Water. 2000 If in company of other units, position relative thereto: Verification of Contact: On starboard beam of loading Prop. Noises None Ship of task group, relative Width of target -- Bearing 080. Movement of target --- Estimated sound range of the day 1500 yds. Type of echo only one-which was fair Sound gear in use when contact made: Doppler: Inclination opening-Closing- None Listening-Echo ranging. Small-Moderate-Great. Sight: Torpedo Sighted: Ship Torpedoed: First Sound Contact: Periscope. Rel. bearing: Rel. bearing Range 1250 yds. Conning tower. Track angle Dist. Bearing 115 T. or Rel. Hull. Range (a) 2000 yds (b) 100-200 yds Remarks: Enemy sub was first contacted prior to beginning of morning twilight by HELENA's SG Radar on bearing 046 true, distance 16,000 yards. McCalla, the after screening vessel on starboard side of Task Group formation, was ordered to investigate. After running north and east at 20 knots for fifteen minutes a submarine was sighted on the surface bearing 090 true at a range of about 2000 yards. Visibility was good in spite of a completely overcast sky. The submarine appeared nearly dead in the water, target angle closely approximating 90° or 270°. Guns were ordered to train on target and speed was increased to flank with intent to ram, but before guns bore sub submerged. It was noted that direction of motion was to port. Ship slowed to 15 knots and attempted to make sound contact. One echo was obtained bearing 115 true which was distinct but wide, extending to the left, but before this could be developed sub's periscope was sighted briefly broad on port bow, distance 100 to 200 yards. Ship's head at this time was swinging left. Sound contact had apparently been a large knuckle caused by sub's suddenly going ahead when she dove. Ship commenced dropping depth charges 10 seconds later. It was believed that the sub had turned sharply toward ship after diving for a faint feather was observed in this direction when periscope disappeared. The first "I" gun charge landed ahead of the feather, and the second "I" gin charge landed in the feather. It was estimated that the sub was at less than 100 feet depth and within the pattern of the first and second "I" gun charges and the first three 600 pound stern charge explosions. With charges set at "shallow" it is hard to believe that sub was not fatally damaged in this attack. Thirty seconds after the last charge of the pattern had been dropped and exploded another underwater explosion was heard and felt. Thirty seconds after this there was a second explo- sion, and three minutes later there was a third explosion. In connection with these later explosions no explanation can be made except that they were caused by explosion within the sub. The possibility that the explosions were caused by the sub's torpedoes exploding after having been fired at the ship was considered, but from the time element involved and recent experience with this sort of explosion it is disregarded as an explanation. On two recent occasions where torpedoes were fired at ships within the McCALLA's formation and exploded at the end of their runs, it was particularly noticeable that the explosions occurred near the surface and were accompanied by bright flashes and plumes but with no underwater effect, In the case of the explosions following the McCALLA attack no such flashes nor plumes were observed, but the underwater effect was lost distinct. The ship was ordered to remain in the vicinity until day- liqht and then proceed and rejoin formation. Sound search in the vicinity was continued, but no further contact nor evidence of destruction was observed other than a strong smell of oil. The exact position of the attack was not observed prior to leaving, vicinity to rejoin formation. 2. ATTACK TIME RANGE BEARING OWN COURSE OWN SPEED 1720 16,000 046 295 15 Relative speed at loss of contact:Est.18-20 1722 --- -- 000 20 Range at loss of contact: 1000 yds 1730 --- -- 045 20 Time of dropping first charge: 1737 GCT 1735 2000 095 045 20 At time of drop: Own co. 080°; spd 15 1735-30 1500 090 090 25 Assumed sub speed: 6 1737 150 045 080 15 Assumed sub course: 260 * Swinging left Estimated sub depth: Shallow-Medium-Deep. Was marker buoy dropped? No Charge No. (indicate dude) 300 300 600 300 600 300 600 300 600 600 600 S P P S S Time of drop from 1st charge 0 0 4 5 7 10 10 13 13 16 19 Depth setting 50 50 100 100 100 100 100 50 100 100 100 Size impulse charge (oz.) 20 20 - 14 - 14 - 20 - - - Evidence of Damage to Sub. (Note-Do not confuse the brown residue from depth charge explosion with oil on water.) None (except see remarks) Bodies - Debris - Oil sample - Recovered. Where forwarded: Time Between First Contact on This Target and This Attack: From Radar contact 12 minutes From sight contact 2 minutes If no further attacks made, time between last attack and abandonment of search: one hour Reason search abandoned: ordered by Task Force Commander to rejoin formation. Number charges remaining: 41 - 300 lb.; 16 - 600 lb. 3. GENERAL REMARKS (Use Additional Sheet if Necessary) (Describe evasive tactics if possible) 

November 3, 1942.

(a)  Composition and Designation of Unit.  Designation of next higher 
     echelon and major task force, or fleet:  
     T.Gr. 65.8

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or order of the 
     immediate superior:
     See (f) below.

(c)  Changes in the tasks of the unit, Since (b) was issued:
     To continue advance of transport group.

(d)  Positions............0800:  11-08   S     161-16   E
                          1200:  11-09.3 S     162-20.5 E
                          2000:  10-04   S     161-56   E

     Course & Speed 1200 to 1200:

     Meteorological and sea infor-
     mation of importance:             See action report.

(e)  Brief of days operations:
     Patrolling as striking force South of San Cristobal and
     Guadalcanal covering temporary retirement transports.

     Sighted sub on surface - sank same with depth charges.

     Rendezvous with Task Group 65.8 McCalla joined that formation  
     As screen.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions reached:
     Comsopac 021220 directing TF 65 less transports strike enemy
     Force Cactus - (No contacts). Comsopac 021232 directing 
     Transports reverse course and striking group to rendezvous and 
     Proceed with unloading.

(g)  Note if battle or action report attached ___Yes___.


                                                        November 4, 1942.

(a)  Composition and Designation of Unit. Designation of
     next higher echelon and Major task force, or fleet:
       Same

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or 
     order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the tasks of the unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Positions:           0800:  Off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal
                          1200:   "    "     "         "
                          2000:  09-20.4  S      160-31.3  E

     Course & Speed 1200 to 1200:
     Meteorological and sea infor-
     mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operations:
     Arrived off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is. Transports unloaded
     during daylight and retired into Indispensible Straits during
     the night.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     reached:
     Comsopac 040452 directing T.Gr. 65.1 proceed Espiritu when
     unloaded and joined by APD's ready to depart.  Remainder of
     T.F. to proceed Espiritu, fuel and wait orders.

(g)  Note if battle or action report attached:  No.


                                                November 5, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  09-25    S     160-03    E
                          1200:  09-13.5  S     160-13.2  E
                          2000:  10- 2.8  S     161-53    E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:
      Meteorological and sea infor-
      Mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operation:
       After retiring Indispensable Straits during night transports, 
       screen and striking Force return Lunga Point at daylight.

       Completed unloading of transports and enroute for second
       Channel, Espiritu Santo Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
        None
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                     November 6, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  11-49.9  S     163-53.8  E
                          1200:  12-22.9  S     164-44    E
                          2000:  13-36.5  S     165-59    E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:
      Meteorological and sea infor-
      Mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute from Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is. To Segond Channel,
       Espiritu Santo, Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                November 7, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       TF 65 dissolved

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       None

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       Task completed

(d)  Position             0800:  Entrance channel, Segond Channel
                          1200:  Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo
                          2000:    "       "        "       "

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:
      Meteorological and sea infor-
      Mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Arrived Segong Channel, Espiritu Santo.

       * Task Force 65 as previously constituted abolished. New
       TF 65 established (San Francisco, Helena, Laffey, Buchanan,
       Gwin, Sterrett)

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       * Comsopac 061232

(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                     November 8, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       TF 62.4 (Atlanta, Aaron Ward, Fletcher, Lardner, McCalla,
       Betelgeuse, Libra)

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       See (f) below.

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo
                          1200:    "       "        "       "
                          2000:    "       "        "       "

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:
      Meteorological and sea infor-
      Mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operation:
       At anchor Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       CTF 62-070430 establishing TG 62.4 (See (a) above with orders
       Proceed Cactus and to report CTF 67 on arrival.

(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                     November 9, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       
(d)  Position             0800:  Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo
                          1200:  15-18    S     167-21    E
                          2000:  13-50.2  S     166-10.1  E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:
      Meteorological and sea infor-
      Mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Underway with Task Group 62.4* for Lunga Point, Guadalcanal
       Is.

       * Atlanta (O.T.C.)
         
         Aaron Ward     Betelgeuse
         Fletcher       Zielen
         Lardner        Libra
         McCalla

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None

(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 10, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       T.Gr. 62.4

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       CTF 62  070430

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  11-44    S     164-05    E
                          1200:  10-59.9  S     163-12.9  E
                          2000:  09-50.0  S     161-49    E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:
      Meteorological and sea infor-
      Mation of importance:

(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute from Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo, Is. to Lunga
       Point, Guadalcanal Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None

(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 11, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       T Gr 62.4

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Sealark Channel off Guadalcanal Is.
                          1200:  Off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal.
                          2000:   "    "     "         '

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:
      Meteorological and sea infor-  Wind SE, Force1; Sea 1 no
      Mation of importance:          Swell; weather BC; Clouds, 
                                     STCu, amt. 7; visibility 30.
 
(e)  Brief of days operation
       Enroute from Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo, Is. To Lunga
       Point, Guadalcanal Is.  Arrived Luna Point, Guadalcanal
       Is.-transports unloaded during daylight and Task Gr. Retired
       into Indespensible Straits for the night.

       Two air raids during the day*

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       CTF 100400 directing TG 62.4 to join 67.1 (Combatant ships)
       in Indispensible Straits after night retirement and to follow
       through Sealark Channal

       CTF also directed McCalla to escort Zielen to Button
       If unloaded.  Zeilen had already proceeded with Lardner on
       Orders CTG 62.4
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  Yes.

ANTI-AIRCRAFT ACTION BY SURFACE SHIPS LOCATION OF SHIP: Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is. USS McCALLA DATE November 11, 1942 (Dive bombing attack - 1st of two attacks this date) NOTES: (a) REPEL ATTACK FIRST - Then collect data for this report. (b) Do not "Gun Deck" this report - if data cannot be estimated with reasonable accuracy enter dash in space for which no data is available. (c) These sheets are to be filled out immediately after action is completed with available data from ship's log, memory, and consultation with ship's officers. Information is essential in order that the effectiveness of our equipment can be determined. Where data is of doubtful accuracy fill in with general terms. The obtaining or this information must not be allowed in any way to adversely affect the handling of equipment during action. 1. SURPRISE ATTACK (Yes or No): No 2. METHOD PICKING PLANE UP (Radar, binoculars, naked eye): naked eye. (if by radar state type of set) Original info from recon. Plane. 3. RANGE PLANE WAS PICKED UP (50 miles, 30 miles, 10 miles, less 5 miles): less than 5 miles 4. Number of planes: 9 - 10. 5. Type of plane (fighter, Scout, dive-bomber): Dive bombers and sighters. Type of attack: dive bomber 6. Speed and Altitude (High and fast, intermediate and fast, low and fast, high and slow, intermediate and slow, low and slow): Intermediate and fast. 7. Guns Firing: All-Stbd Size: 5"/38; 20mm Number: 4-5"/38; 2-20mm, Method of control: 5"/38 Director - 20 mm Local Method spotting: 8. Ammunition expended: 46 rounds 5"/38; 98 rounds 20mm 9. Percent service allowance expended: 3% 10. Approximate time tracking to first shot: 5 seconds 11. Approximate time of first hits: --------------- 12. Approximate time first shot to last shot: 2 minutes 13. Approximate position angle open fire: 25° 14. Approximate position cease fire: 10° 15. Approximate bearing first shot: 25° relative 16. Approximate bearing last shot: 17. Approximate range first shot: 18. Approximate range last shot: 150° relative (shifted targets several times) 19. Approximate altitude of bomb release: 3000 Type of bomb: - - - 20. Approximate Range Torpedo Release: 4,000 yds. Size: - - - 21. Hits on ship: None Was ship strafed: size gun: 1000 lbs. 22. Number near bomb misses: none Casualties from near misses: no 23. Planes shot down: none 24. Details of damage to target by gunfire if available: 25. Performance of ammunition (excellent, good, bad, poor): 26. Pattern sizes (large, small excessive): SKETCH (a) Indicate direction of attack relative ship's heading. Good (b) Show relative position of sun. (c) Indicate own maneuvers. 
    

ANTI-AIRCRAFT ACTION BY SURFACE SHIPS LOCATION OF SHIP: Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is. USS McCALLA Date November 11, 1942 (High bombing, Attack on Guadalcanal flying field - 2nd of two attacks this date) NOTES: (a) REPEL ATTACK FIRST - Then collect data for this report. (b) Do not "Gun Deck" this report - if data cannot be estimated with reasonable accuracy enter dash in space for which no data is available. (c) These sheets are to be filled out immediately after action is completed with available data from ship's log, memory, and consultation with ship's officers. Information is essential in order that the effectiveness of our equipment can be determined. Where data is of doubtful accuracy fill in with general terms. The obtaining or this information must not be allowed in any way to adversely affect the handling of equipment during action. 1. SURPRISE ATTACK (Yes or No): No 2. METHOD PICKING PLANE UP (Radar, binoculars, naked eye): binoculars. (if by radar state type of set) Original info from recon. Plane. 3. RANGE PLANE WAS PICKED UP (50 miles, 30 miles, 10 miles, less 5 miles): 18 miles 4. Number of planes: 28. 5. Type of plane (fighter, Scout, dive-bomber): 2 engine bombers Type of attack: high bombing 6. Speed and Altitude (High and fast, intermediate and fast, low and fast, high and slow, intermediate and slow, low and slow): High and fast. 7. Guns Firing: - - - Size: 5"/38 No. 4 Method of control: Director Method spotting: direct and ladder 8. Ammunition expended: 61 rounds 9. Percent service allowance expended: 4% 10. Approximate time tracking to first shot: 4 minutes 11. Approximate time of first hits: none 12. Approximate time first shot to last shot: 3 minutes 13. Approximate position angle open fire: 40º 14. Approximate position cease fire: 40º 15. Approximate bearing first shot: 210º 16. Approximate bearing last shot: 17. Approximate range first shot: 210º (Change course radically to left) 18. Approximate range last shot: 18,200 19. Approximate altitude of bomb release: 17,000 Type of bomb: - - - 20. Approximate Range Torpedo Release: 22,000 yds. Size: 500 lb (est) 21. Hits on ship: Was ship strafed: - - size gun: - - 22. Number near bomb misses: none Casualties from near misses: no 23. Planes shot down: none 24. Details of damage to target by gunfire if available: None Planes were out of reach of gunfire. 25. Performance of ammunition (excellent, good, bad, poor): 26. Pattern sizes (large, small excessive): Good Small SKETCH (a) Indicate direction of attack relative ship's heading. (b) Show relative position of sun. (c) Indicate own maneuvers. 

November 12, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       T Gr. 67.1

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       See (f) below

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       See (f) below

(d)  Position             0800:  Off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is.
                          1200:   "    "     "         "
                          2000:  09-02.3  S     160-15.4  E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:
      Meteorological and sea infor-  Wind SE, Force 1; Weather C;
      Mation of importance:          Clouds STNb; Amt. 10; visibility 
                                     30; Sea, smooth.
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       After retiring into Indespensible Straits with T.G. 62.4
       The previous evening.  Rendezvoused with TF 67.1 and reentered
       Sea Lark Channel prior daylight.  Transports unloaded off
       Lunga Point (Task Group 62.4 dissolved)

       Japs made torpedo and dive bombing attacks on formation.
       (See action report)

       At sundown retired with transports into Indispensible Straits.
       Shaw (Comdr. Screen)  
       Buchanan
       McCalla
       Manley
       Horey
       Betelgeuse
       Libra
       Pres. Jackson
       McCowley (CTF 67)
       In accordance with (f) below.

       Task Group 67.4 (Support Gp.) engaged enemy off Savo Island
       This night.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       CTF 120133 ordering transports to retire and TG 67.4 to
       Cover retirement as support Group by destroying enemy ships
       Cactus at night.
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  Yes.


ANTI-AIRCRAFT ACTION BY SURFACE SHIPS LOCATION OF SHIP: Lunge Point, Guadalcanal Island USS McCALLA DATE November 12, 1942. (Torpedo plane attack on Task Force unloading reinforcements at Guadalcanal) NOTES: (a) REPEL ATTACK FIRST - Then collect data for this report. (b) Do not "Gun Deck" this report - if data cannot be estimated with reasonable accuracy enter dash in space for which no data is available. (c) These sheets are to be filled out immediately after action is completed with available data from ship's log, memory, and consultation with ship's officers. Information is essential in order that the effectiveness of our equipment can be determined. Where data is of doubtful accuracy fill in with general terms. The obtaining or this information must not be allowed in any way to adversely affect the handling of equipment during action. 1. SURPRISE ATTACK (Yes or No): No 2. METHOD PICKING PLANE UP (Radar, binoculars, naked eye): Binoculars. (if by radar state type of set) - - - 3. RANGE PLANE WAS PICKED UP (50 miles, 30 miles, 10 miles, less 5 miles): 15 MILES 4. Number of planes: 22 to 25 5. Type of plane (fighter, Scout, dive-bomber): Torpedo planes. Type of attack: Torpedo's 6. Speed and Altitude (High and fast, intermediate and fast, low and fast, high and slow, intermediate and slow, low and slow): Low Intermediate. 7. Guns Firing: All Size: 5"/38; 1.1"; 20mm Number: 4,4,5, respectively Method of control: Director for 5"/38 Method spotting: direct and ladder. 8. Ammunition expended: 66-5"/38; 30-1.1"; 262 rounds 20mm 9. Percent service allowance expended: 4% 10. Approximate time tracking to first shot: 2 minutes 11. Approximate time of first hits: 40 seconds 12. Approximate time first shot to last shot: 3 minutes 13. Approximate position angle open fire: 3° 14. Approximate position cease fire: 3° 15. Approximate bearing first shot: 050 16. Approximate bearing last shot: 090 (shifted targets) 17. Approximate range first shot: 8,000 yards 18. Approximate range last shot: 1,000 yards 19. Approximate altitude of Torp release: 50 feet Type of bomb: - - - 20. Approximate Range Torpedo Release: 2,000 yds. Size: - - - 21. Hits on ship: None was ship strafed: - - - size gun: - - - 22. Number near bomb misses: - - - Casualties from near misses: - - 23. Planes shot down: (Sure) 2 (Possible) one (Damaged) one 24. Details of damage to target by gunfire if available: None. 25. Performance of ammunition (excellent, good, bad, poor): Good * Except 1.1 in. Premature explosion ruptured barrel of one gun. Reported by separate correspondence. 26. Pattern sizes (large, small excessive): Small SKETCH (a) Indicate direction of attack relative ship's head. (b) Show relative position of sun. (c) Indicate own maneuver. 

November 13, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       T Gr. 67.1 (CTF 67 OTC)

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       Same

(d)  Position             0800:  11-29    S     162-07.2  E
                          1200:  12-02    S     162-28    E
                          2000:  13-01.5  S     163-38    E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:          
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute with convoy from Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is. To
       Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.

U.S.S. McCALLA (DD488) DD488/A16-3 (TS133-022) November 13, 1942. CONFIDENTIAL From: The Commanding Office. To : The Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Via : (1) The Commander Destroyer Squadron TWELVE. (2) The Commander Task Force SIXTY-SEVEN. (3) The Commander South Pacific Force. Subject: Battle Report. Anti-Aircraft Action off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Island, on November 11, 1942. Reference: (a) U. S. Navy Regulations, Art. 712 and 849. Enclosure: (A) Executive Officer's Report. 1. On November 11, 1942, while transports of Task Group 62.4 were unloading reinforcements off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Island, this group was twice subjected to air raids by Japanese forces. In both cases sufficient advance notice had been obtained for the auxiliaries to get underway and for effective screening stations to have been established. 2. The first attack was a dive bombing attack by Japanese planes aimed at the transports. The Task Group, steaming at 14 knots turned to receive the attack from ahead. The enemy planes were taken under fire at 0941, shortly before the first plane commenced its dive, which was at a comparatively shallow angle, at an intermediate speed, and from an altitude of about 6000 feet. Bombs were released over the transports at an altitude of less than 1000 feet but none were observed to hit. From the size of the splashes it was estimated that the bombs were of a small size - 100 to 250 pounds. 3. The action lasted only about two minutes during which time this vessel fired 46 rounds of 5'/38 cal. and 96 rounds of 20MM ammunition. No sure hits can be claimed for the 5'/38 cal. battery because of the large number of ships firing at the same targets, but it is definitely believed that hits were obtained on one plane as it came out if its dive by #3 - 20MM gun. This vessel was in a particularly disadvana- geous position for firing on this attack inasmuch as she was on the port quarter of the formation during the attack and could not fire without considerable danger to the many ships. 4. The second raid came at 1130 with 28, 2 engine bombers flying high (21,200 feet) and fast in two closely adjacent triangular formation attacking the air field at Guadalcanal. The planes had been tracked from a distance of Over 18 miles and although an excellent solution had been obtained no hits were obtained. A total of 61 rounds of 5'/38 cal. ammunition was expended. The only tactics involved con- sisted of a 45 degree turn to unmask the battery. The planes passed at a minimum range of 16,500 yards. W. G. COOPER. 

U.S.S. McCALLA (DD488) DD488/A16-3 (TS133-022) November 13, 1942. CONFIDENTIAL Enclosure A From: The Executive Officer. To : The Commanding Officer. Subject: Battle Report. Anti-Aircraft action off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Island, On November 11, 1942. Reference: (a) U. S. Navy Regulations, Art. 946. 1. In connection with the subject action there were no noteworthy incidents that have come to my notice. The gun and fire control personnel functioned coolly and effectively. 2. There were no casualties to material or personnel. F.B.T. MYHRE. 

November 14, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  14-13    S     166-06    E
                          1200:  13-14    S     166-32.8  E
                          2000:  14-35    S     168-06.8  E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:          
                                      
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute from Guadalcanal Is. To Segond Channel, Espiritu
       Santo Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       TBS word from T.Gr. 67.4 which passed to Southward
       During day re sub attack decided CTF 67 to alter course.
       This resulted in delay in reaching destination until following
       Day.
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 15, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       T.F. 67 disolved.

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       None

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       Task completed

(d)  Position             0800:  Entrance Bagacio Channel
                          1200:  Segond Channel
                          2000:  Segond Channel

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Arrived with Convoy at Segond Channel, Espiritu Santu

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       ComtaskFor 67-142000 dissolving TF 67
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 16, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       T. Unit 62.4.2 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       * See (f) below

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo
                          1200:    "        "        "     "
                          2000:    "        "        "     "

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       At anchor Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Is., New Hebredies.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       CTF 62 160420 establishing T. Unit 62.4.2 (Betel-
       geuse, Libra, Shaw, McCalla) with orders to proceed Cactus.
       Comsopac 161032 assigning Mustin, McCalla oper. Control CTF 62
       for above duty.         
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 17, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo
                          1200:    "        "        "     "
                          2000:  15-35    S     167-21.4  E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Underway from Espiritu Santo for Guadalcanal with T.U. 62.4.2.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 18, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  14-40.1  S     167-02.0  E
                          1200:  14-40.0  S     167-00.0  E
                          2000:  14-13.5  S     166-17.0  E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute from Espiritu Santo to Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 19, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  12-47.0  S     165-07.2  E
                          1200:  12-00.0  S     164-43.0  E
                          2000:  11-19.0  S     164-15.0  E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute from Espiritu Santo to Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 20, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  10-24.5  S     163-02.5  E
                          1200:  10-23.2  S     162-21.0  E
                          2000:  09-49.5  S     161-23.2  E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute from Espiritu Santo to Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 21, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Lunga Pt. Area.
                          1200:    "    "    "
                          2000:    "    "    "

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Arrived at Lunga Pt., Guadalcanal Is.

       Patrolling off Lunga Point during unloading of Betelgeuse
       And Libra.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 22 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Lunga Pt. Area.
                          1200:    "    "    "
                          2000:  Tulagi Harbor Entrance

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Patrolling off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal, during night
       21-22 Nov. and during daylight.

       Patrolled off entrance Tulagi Harbor during night 22-23
       Nov.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 23 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Tulagi Harbor Entrance
                          1200:  Lunga Pt. Area
                          2000:  Tulagi Harbor Entrance

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Patrolled off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is. during daylight and 
       off Tulagi Harbor, Florida Is. during nights 22-23 and
       23-24 Nov.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       CTF 62 232135 Betelgeuse authorized depart with 1 DD
       and 1 DM on completion unloading.
       CTF 62 232155- forming T.U. 62.4.5(Libra, McCalla-1DM)        
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 24 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       

(d)  Position             0800:  Lunga Roads Area
                          1200:    "     "     "
                          2000:  Off Tulagi Harbor 

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Patrolled off Lunga Point during daylight and off Tulagi 
       Harbor during night.  Anchored in Tulagi Harbor at 2321.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       Comsopac 230612 re reorganization of South Pacific
       Force.  McCalla assigned T.F. 66 (escort force).  New
       Organization effective 0000/24 Nov.
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 25 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       62.4.5 - new effective. 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       CTF 62 212355

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Lunga Roads Area
                          1200:    "     "     "
                          2000:  Lunga Roads-Tulagi area 

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Fueled from Libra in Tulagi Harbor shortly after midnight.
       
       Patrolled off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal during daylight,
       bombarded enemy shore positions in later afternoon, 
       and returned to Tulagi and anchored in late evening.

       * Betelgeuse, Mustin, Zane departed for Button.
       New task Unit formed.



(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  YES.


                                                    November 26, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Lunga Roads area
                          1200:    "     "    "
                          2000:  09-23    S     160-28    E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Patrolled off Lunga Point, Guadalcanal during daylight.
       Libra completed unloading and Task Unit departed for Segond
       Channel, Espiritu Santo, Libra towing PAB6.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 27, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  09-58.8  S     162-14.2  E
                          1200:  10-22.2  S     162-38    E
                          2000:  11-08    S     163-50    E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute from Guadalcanal Is. to Segond Channel, Espiritu 
       Santo Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None       
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 28, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  12-37.2  S     165-20    E
                          1200:  13-08    S     165-50    E
                          2000:  14-11    S     166-46    E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Enroute from Lunga Point, Guadalcanal Is. to Segond Channel, 
       Espiritu Santo Is.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       CTF 62 280105 orders to join T.U. 62.4.7 (Hunter
       Ligget, Kenmare, SS Jsop, Teal, O'Bannion, Stack, Southhard,
       Hovey) after fueling.  CT Unit 62.4.7 280310 designating time 
       and place of rendezvous. 
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 29, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Same 

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       Same

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       Task completed

(d)  Position             0800:  Segond Channel,
                          1200:      Espiritu Santo Is.,
                          2000:          New Hebrides

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Arrived Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Is., New Hebrides.
       Fueled and provisioned ship.

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       None 
     
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.


                                                    November 30, 1942.

(a)  Composition and designation of Units.  Designation of
     next higher echelon and major task force, or fleet:
       Proceeded independently  

(b)  The identifying designation of the operation plan or
     Order of the immediate superior:
       See (f) below.

(c)  Changes in the task unit, since (b) was issued:
       None

(d)  Position             0800:  Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo
                          1200:    "       "        "       "   
                          2000:  15-48.5  S     166-53.8  E

      Course & Speed 1200 - 1200:

      Meteorological and sea infor-  
      Mation of importance:           
                                     
 
(e)  Brief of days operation:
       Departed Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Is, Lunga Point,
       Guadalcanal area (after rendezvous with Task Unit 62.4.7) 

(f)  Summary of important orders received and decisions
     Reached:
       CTF 62 280105 orders to rendezvous with and escort
       T.U. 62.4.7 to Guadalcanal.  CTU 62.4.7 280130 giving rend-
       ezvous for above.  
      
(g)  Note if battle or action report attached  No.



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