01/01 Sat. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. F. C. Sherman) bomb Japanese convoy escorted by cruisers and destroyers off Kavieng, New Ireland. Naval Air Facility, Honolulu, Oahu, T. H., is established. United States naval vessels damaged: Destroyers SMITH (DD-378) and HUTCHINGS (DD-476), by collision, eastern New Guinea area, 05 d. 00' S., 146 d. 00' E. LST 446, by accidental explosion, Solomon Islands area, 06 d. 15' S., 155 d. 02' E. 

01/02 Sun. Army troops land at Saidor, New Guinea, under cover of cruisers and destroyers (Rear Adm. D. E. Barbey).

01/03 Mon. Submarine BLUEFISH (SS-222) lays mines off eastern Malayan coast. United States naval vessel sunk: Destroyer TURNER (DD-648), by explosion, Ambrose Channel, New York Harbor.

01/04 Tue. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. F. C. Sherman) bomb enemy shipping at Kavieng, New Ireland. Submarine RASHER (SS-269) lays mines off Cochin China. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-145, damaged by grounding, eastern New Guinea area, 05 d. 34' S., 146 d. 10' E.; sunk by United States forces. 

01/08 Sat. Cruiser and destroyer task force (Rear Adm. W. L. Ainsworth) bombards enemy shore installations on Faisi, Poporang, and Shortland Islands in the Solomon Islands Group.

01/16   Sortied with Task Group 58.1 and set course for Marshall Islands, final approch from the southwest.

01/10 Mon. United States naval vessel sunk: Motor minesweeper YMS-127, by grounding, Aleutian Islands area. 

01/11 Tue. Naval land-based aircraft (Rear Adm. J. H. Hoover) from Gilbert and Ellice Islands bomb Japanese shipping and installations at Kwajalein, Marshall Islands. 

01/14 Fri. United States naval vessel sunk: Fuel oil barge (self-propelled) YO-159, damaged by submarine torpedo, South Pacific area, 15 d. 27' S., 171 d. 28' E.; sunk by United States forces. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer SAZANAMI, by submarine ALBACORE (SS-218), Central Pacific area, 05 d. 15' N., 141 d. 15' E. 

01/19 Wed. Naval land-based aircraft from Attu, Aleutian Islands, bomb Paramushiro-Shimushu area, Kurile Islands; similar attacks are made on three succeeding nights. 

01/20 Thu. Submarine TINOSA (SS-283) lands personnel and equipment in northeast Borneo. United States naval vessel damaged: Oiler CACHE (AO-67), by submarine torpedo, South Pacific area, 12 d. 08' S., 164 d. 33' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine RO-37, by destroyer BUCHANAN (DD-484), South Pacific area, 11 d. 47' S., 164 d. 17' E. Auxiliary submarine chaser No. 40, by Army aircraft, off Admiralty Islands, 01 d. 50' s., 147 d. 20' E. 

01/26 Wed. Cruiser and destroyer task group (Rear Adm. R. S. Berkey) bombards enemy installations in Madang- Alexischafen area of New Guinea. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-110, by collision, off New Britain, 06 d. 17' S., 150 d. 09' E. United States naval vessel damaged: PT-114, by collision, off New Britain, 06 d. 17' S., 150 d. 09' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer SUZUKAZE, by submarine SKIPJACK (SS-184), Caroline Islands area, 08 d. 51' N., 157 d. 10' E. Submarine chaser No. 14, by naval land-based aircraft, Central Pacific area, 11 d. 10' N., 163 d. 25' E. 

01/29 Sat. Aircraft from fast carrier force (Read Adm. M. A. Mitscher) begin series of strikes to destroy Japanese air power and shipping in the Marshall Islands. Attacks continue daily until 6 February 1944.

01/29   Strikes were launched against Maloelap in the Marshall Islands. 

01/30 Sun. Naval land-based aircraft from Midway Island bomb Wake Island. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer ANDERSON (DD-411), by coastal defense gun, M 09 d. 33' N., 170 d. 18' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine chasers Nos. 18, 19, 21, and 28, auxiliary submarine chaser No. 25, by carrier-based aircraft and surface vessel, Marshall Islands area.

01/30   Attacks were made on Kwajalein. 

01/31 Mon. Marines and Army troops (Maj. Gen. H. M. Smith, USMC) land on Kwajalein and Majuro Atolls in the Marshall Islands. The operation is under the overall command of Commander Central Pacific Force (Vice Adm. R. A. Spruance) and is composed of Southern Attack Force (Rear Adm. R. K. Turner), Northern Attack Force (Rear Adm. R. L. Conolly), and Reserve Force and Majuro Attack Group (Rear Adm. H. W. Hill). Landings are supported by carrier-based aircraft (Rear Adm. M. A. Mitscher) and land-based aircraft (Rear Adm. J. H. Hoover). Aircraft from fast carrier group (Read Adm. F. C. Sherman) bomb aircraft and airfield facilities at Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll in the Marshall Islands. Attacks by this carrier group continue on the first three days of February and afterward by Rear Adm. S. P. Ginder's carrier group through 7 February. Carrier FRANKLIN (CV-13) is commissioned at Newport News, Va. United States naval vessels damaged: Heavy cruiser LOUISVILLE (CA-28), by naval gunfire, Marshall Islands invasion, 09 d. 00' N., 167 d. 00' E. Destroyer COLAHAN (DD-658), by grounding, Marshall Islands invasion, 08 d. 52' N., 167 d. 38' E. Cargo ship ENCELADUS (AK-80), by storm, Solomon Islands area, 08 d. 09' S., 157, 38' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine I-171, by destroyers GUEST (DD-472), and HUDSON (DD-475), Bismarck Archipelago area, 05 d. 37' S., 154 d. 14' E. Minelayer NASAMI, by submarine TRIGGER (SS-237), Central Pacific area, 09 d. 50' N., 147 d. 06' E. Auxiliary submarine chaser No. 33, by aircraft, Central Pacific area.

02/01 Tue. Invasion of the Marshall Islands continues as Marines land on Roi and Namur Islands, and Army troops land on Kwajalein Island under cover of heavy naval gunfire from battleships, cruisers and destroyers. Command designated Amphibious Forces, Pacific Fleet, with headquarters at Pearl Harbor, Oahu, T. H., is established. Vice Admiral R. K. Turner, Commander Fifth Amphibious Force, is ordered to assume this command as additional duty. United States Naval Base, Finschhafen, New Guinea, is established. United States naval vessels damaged, Marshall Islands invasion: Destroyer ANDERSON (DD-411), by grounding, 09 d. 10' N., 167 d. 25' E. Destroyer HAGGARD (DD-555), by accidental explosion, 09 d. 00' N., 167 d. 00' E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer UMIKAZE, by submarine GUARDFISH (SS- 217), Caroline Islands area, 07 d. 10' N., 151 d. 43' E. Submarine RO-39, by destroyer WALKER (DD-517), Marshall Islands area, 09 d. 24' N., 170 d. 32' E. 

02/02 Wed. Roi and Namur Islands in the Marshall Islands are secured. United States naval vessels damaged: Battleships WASHINGTON (BB-56) and INDIANA (BB- 58), by collision, Marshall Islands operation, 07 d. 00' N., 167 d. 00' E. 

02/03 Thu. Cruiser and destroyer gunfire supports landing of Army troops on Ebeye, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands. United States naval vessels damaged: Destroyer CLAXTON (DD-571), by coastal defense gun, Solomon Islands area, 05 d. 49' S., 154 d. 39' E. Minesweeper CHIEF (AM-135), by grounding, Marshall Islands area, 09 d. 00' N., 167 d. 00' E. 

02/04 Fri. Cruisers and destroyers (Rear Adm. W. D. Baker) bombard enemy installations at Paramushiro, Kurile Islands. 

02/04   Entered Majuro Atoll Lagoon in the Gilbert Islands Group.

02/05 Sat. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167), delivers supplies and evacuates certain personnel from near Libertad, Panay, P. I. Japanese submarine sunk: I-21, by destroyer CHARRETTE (DD-581) and destroyer escort FAIR (DE-35), Marshall Islands area, 06 d. 48' N., 168 d. 08' E. 

02/07 Mon. Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, is declared secured. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167), delivers supplies and evacuates certain personnel from near Balatong Point, Negros, P. I.

02/10 Thu. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. S. P. Ginder) bomb enemy installations on Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands; similar strikes are made on 11 and 12 February. United States naval vessel damaged: LST 170, by horizontal bomber, eastern New Guinea area, 08 d. 39' S., 148 d. 27' E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer MINEKAZE, by submarine POGY (SS-266), off Formosa, 23 d. 12' N., 121 d. 30' E. 

02/11 Fri. United States naval vessels sunk: PT-279, by collision with PT-282, Solomon Islands area, 05 d. 30' S., 154 d. 15' E. 

02/12 Sat. Marines land on Arno Atoll, Marshall Islands; this begins a series of "mopping-up" operations in minor atolls of the Marshall Islands. Japanese aircraft bomb and destroy supply concentrations on Roi Islands, Marshall Islands. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine rescue vessel MACAW (ASR-11), by grounding, entrance to Midway Channel. 

02/12    Oakland got underway with Task Group 58.1 and headed west to attack the Japanese Naval Base at Truk in the Central Caroline Islands.

02/14 Mon. United States naval vessel damaged: Light cruiser ST. LOUIS (CL-49), by dive bomber, Bismarck Archipelago area, 06 d. 15' S., 153 d. 29' E. 02/15 Thu. United States Third Amphibious Force (Rear Adm. T. S. Wilkinson) lands New Zealand troops in the Green Islands off New Ireland. The operation is covered by cruisers, destroyers and Solomon Islands-based aircraft. Command designated Central Pacific Forward Area (Rear Adm. J. H. Hoover) is established; Rear Admiral Hoover flies his lag in the seaplane tender CURTISS (AV-4). Naval aircraft from Abemama, Gilbert Islands, bomb Wake Island. Japanese submarines sunk: I-43, by submarine ASPRO (SS-309), Central Pacific area, 12 d. 42' N., 149 d. 17' E. RO-40, by destroyer PHELPS (DD-360) and minesweeper SAGE (AM-111), Marshall Islands area, 09 d. 50' N., 166 d. 35' E. 

02/16 Wed. Aircraft from carrier group (Rear Adm. S. P. Ginder) bomb Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Light cruiser AGANO, by submarine SKATE (SS-305), Central Pacific area, 10 d. 11' N., 151 d. 42' E. Submarine chasers Nos. 16 and 39, by Army aircraft, north of New Ireland, 02 d. 24' S., 150 d. 06' E.

02/16   Strikes were launched against Truk.

02/17 Thu. Naval task force (Vice Adm. R. A. Spruance), which includes 9 carriers and 6 battleships, strikes Japanese installations and vessels at Truk, Caroline Islands; attack is repeated on 18 February. United States naval vessel damaged: Carrier INTREPID (CV-11), by aircraft torpedo, Truk, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 23' N., 153 d. 32' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Light cruiser NAKA, by carrier-based aircraft, Truk area, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 15' N., 151 d. 15' E. Training cruiser KATORI, by carrier-based aircraft and surface craft, Truk area, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 45' N., 151 d. 20' E. Destroyer MAIKAZE, by carrier-based aircraft and surface craft, Truk area, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 45' N., 151 d. 45' E. Destroyer OITE, by carrier-based aircraft, Truk area, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 40' N., 151 d. 45' E. Destroyer TACHIKAZE, by carrier-based aircraft, Truk area, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 40' N., 151 d. 55' E. Minesweeper No. 26, by aircraft, Rabaul, New Britain. Submarine I-11, by destroyer NICHOLAS, (DD-449), Marshall Islands area, 10 d. 34' N., 173 d. 31' E. Submarine chaser No. 24, by destroyer BURNS (DD- 588), 07 D. 24' N., 150 d. 30' E. 

02/17   Strikes against Truk continued.

02/18 Fri. Marines and Army forces land on Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll, in the Marshall Islands. Preliminary landings are made 17 February on several nearby islets. The operation is under the command of Rear Adm. H. W. Hill and is supported by naval gunfire and carrier-based aircraft. Destroyers bombard enemy positions at Kavieng, New Ireland, and Rabaul, New Britain. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Truk area, Caroline Islands: Destroyer FUMIZUKI, by carrier-based aircraft, 07 d. 24' N., 151 d. 44' E. Submarine chaser No. 29, by carrier-based NO. 29, by carrier-based aircraft, 07 d. 25' N., 151 d. 45' E.

02/19 Sat. Marines and Army troops supported by naval bombardment land on Eniwetok Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands. The operation is under the command of Rear Adm. H. W. Hill. Army, Naval, and Marine land-based aircraft heavily attack airfield and other Japanese installations at Rabaul, New Britain. The area is repeatedly bombed, and after this date the enemy abandons air defense of Rabaul.Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine chasers Nos. 22, 34, and 40 by Army aircraft, off New Ireland. 

02/20 Sun. Carrier task group (Rear Adm. J. W. Reeves) bombs Japanese installations on Jaluit Atoll, Marshall Islands. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Submarine chaser No. 48, by Army aircraft, off New Ireland. 

02/22 Tue. Marines land on Perry Island, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, under cover of naval bombardment and carrier-aircraft bombing; this operation completes United States control of Eniwetok Atoll. Destroyers bombard Japanese airstrips, pier area, and anchorages at Kavieng, New Ireland. 

02/22    Heavy strikes were launched against the Marianas Islands concentrating on Saipan. Our approach was detected and we were forced to fight our way to the objective. During the night and early morning the Oakland shot down two enemy aircraft and assisted in the destruction of two others.

02/23 Wed. Aircraft from fast carrier task force (Rear Adm. M. A. Mitscher) bomb Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and Guam, in first strike against the Marianas Islands. 

02/24 Thu. United States naval vessels damaged: Destroyer BUCHANAN (DD-484) and FARENHOLT (DD-491), by coastal defense gun, north of New Ireland, 02 d. 20' S., 151 d. 02' S. 

02/25 Fri. Destroyers bombard enemy positions at Kavieng, New Ireland and Rabaul, New Britain.

02/26 Sat. United States naval vessels sunk: PT-251, by coastal defense gun, Solomon Islands area, 06 d. 30' S., 155 d. 10' E.

02/28 Mon. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer ABNER READ (DD-526), by grounding, eastern New Guinea area, 08 d. 44' S., 148 d. 27' E.

02/29 Tue. Destroyer task group (Rear Adm. W. M Fechteler) lands Army troops on Los Negros Island, Admiralty Islands. Destroyers bombard wharf area and buildings at Rabaul, New Britain.

03/02 Thu. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167) delivers ammunition and supplies and evacuates certain personnel from Butuan Bay, Nasipit, Mindanao, P. I. Japanese naval vessel sunk: River boat KARATSU, by submarine NARWHAL (SS-167), Philippine Islands area, 08 d. 52' N., 123 d. 23' E. 

03/04 Sat. Army and Naval land-based aircraft attack Choiseul Island, Solomon Islands. Allied task force (Rear Adm. V. A. C. Crutchley, RN) including 2 United States cruisers and 4 United States destroyers, bombards Japanese shore batteries and positions on Hauwei and Norilo Islands in the Admiralty Islands; bombardment is repeated on 6 and 7 March.

03/05 Sun. NARWHAL (SS-167) delivers cargo and evacuates certain personnel from Tawi Tawi, P. I. 

03/06 Mon. United States naval vessels sunk: Submarine SCORPION (SS-278), Pacific Ocean area, reported as presumed lost. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer NICHOLSON (DD-442), by coastal defense gun, Bismarck Archipelago area, 02 d. 00' S., 147 d. 00' E. 

03/07 Tue. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-337, by coastal defense gun, eastern New Guinea area, 04 d. 09' S., 144 d. 50' E. 

03/07   Following a brief stop at Majuro, the Oakland sortied with her group and headed for Espiritu Santo.

03/08 Wed. Japanese aircraft attack United States position on Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands. 

03/10 Fri. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine chaser SC-700, by fire, Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands. 

03/13 Mon. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Light cruiser TATSUTA, by submarine SANDLANCE (SS- 381), off Honshu, Japan, 32 d. 58' N., 138 d. 52' E. 

03/16 Thu. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer SHIRAKUMO, by submarine TAUTOG (SS-199), off Japan, 42 d. 25' N., 144 d. 55' E. 

03/17 Fri. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-283, by coastal defense gun, Solomon Islands area, 06 d. 27' S., 155 d. 08' E.

03/18 Sat. Task group including 1 carrier, 2 battleships, and destroyers (Rear Adm. W. A. Lee) bombs and bombards Japanese installations on Mili Island in the Marshall Islands. Destroyers bombard enemy in Wewak area, New Guinea; bombardment continues on 19 March. United States naval vessel damaged: Battleship IOWA (BB-61), by coastal defense gun, Mili Island, Marshall Islands. 

03/20 Mon. Naval attack group (Commodore L. F. Reifsnider) lands 4th Marine Division (Brig. Gen. A. H. Noble) on Emirau Island, Bismarck Archipelago. Task force including 4 battleships, 2 escort carriers, and destroyers (Rear Adm. R. M. Griffin) bombards and bombs Kavieng, New Ireland. Submarine ANGLER (SS-240) evacuates 58 persons including women and children from west coast of Panay, P. I. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Auxiliary submarine chasers Nos. 47 and 49, by Army aircraft, north of New Guinea, 02 d. 55' S., 143 d. 40' E. 

03/20   Task Group 58.1, now designated Task Group 36.1 supported landings on Emirau Island in the Bismarck Archipelago.

03/23 Thu. Destroyers bombard enemy installations on Mussau Islands in the St. Matthias group, Bismarck Archipelago. Japanese submarine sunk: I-42, by submarine TUNNY (SS-282), off Palau Islands, 06 d. 40' N., 134 d. 03' E. 

03/24 Fri. Japanese submarine sunk: I-32, by destroyer escort MANLOVE (DE-36), and submarine chaser PC-1135, Marshall Islands area, 08 d. 30' N., 170 d. 10' E. 

03/25 Sat. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine chaser No. 54, by submarine POLLACK (SS- 180), north of Bonin Islands, 28 d. 34' N., 142 d. 14' E.

03/26 Sun. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine TULLIBEE (SS-284), probably by circular run of own torpedo, north of Palau Islands, Caroline Islands. 

03/27 Mon. United States naval vessels sunk: PT-121 and PT-353, accidentally by friendly bomber, Bismarck Archipelago area, 05 d. 17' S., 151 d. 01' E.

03/27   The Oakland and her group returned to the operational control of the Commander FIFTH Fleet and resumed the title, Task Group 58.1.

03/28 Tue. Destroyers bombard Japanese positions on Kapingamarangi Atoll, north of New Ireland. 

03/30 Thu. Fast carrier forces under Commander Fifth Fleet (Adm. R. A. Spruance) commence intensive bombing of Japanese airfields, shipping, fleet service facilities, and other installations at Palau, Yap, Ulithi, and Woleai in the Caroline Islands group. Extensive minefields are planted by carrier-based aircraft in and around the channels and approaches to the Palau Islands. Attacks continue until 1 April. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine GRAYBACK (SS-208), Pacific Ocean area, reported as presumed lost. United States naval vessel damaged: Submarine TUNNEY, (SS-282), accidentally by friendly aircraft off Palau Islands, 07 d. 29' N., 134 d. 26' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Palau, Caroline Islands raid: Repair ship AKASHI, oilers OSE, SATA, and IRO, submarine chasers Nos. 6 and 26, auxiliary submarine chasers Nos. 22 and 53, and patrol boat No. 31, by carrier-based aircraft.

03/30   Strikes were launched against Palau and Yap Islands in the Western Carolines. During Jap attacks on the Task Group, the Oakland possibly shot down one of the raiders on the night of 30-31, March.

03/31 Fri. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Old destroyer WAKATAKE, by carrier-based aircraft, off Palau Islands, Caroline Islands. 

03/31   Continued strikes against Palau and Yap Islands in the Western Carolines.

04/01   While withdrawing, hit Woleai.

04/04 Tue. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer HALL (DD-583), by coastal defense gun, Marshall Islands area, 09 d. 30' N., 170 d. 00' E. 

04/05 Wed. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Auxiliary submarine chaser No. 46, by carrier-based aircraft, Caroline Islands area. Japanese submarine sunk: I-2, by destroyer SAUFLEY (DD-465), north of New Ireland, 02 d. 17' S., 149 d. 14' E.

04/09 Sun. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine chaser SC-984, by grounding in New Hebrides. 

04/11 Tue. United States naval vessel damaged: Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer AKIGUMO, by submarine REDFIN (SS-272), Celebes Sea, 06 d. 43' N., 122 d. 23' E. 

04/12 Wed. United States naval vessels sunk: PT-135, damaged by grounding, Bismarck Archipelago area, 05 d. 29' s., 152 d. 09' E.; sunk by United States forces.

04/13 Thu. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer IKAZUCHI, by submarine HARDER (SS-257), Central Pacific area, 10 d. 13' N., 143 51' E. 

04/13   After a week's stop at Majuro, Task Group 58.1 sortied to support the landings on Hollandia, Sawar, Wakde area of New Guineas.

04/15 Sat. Carrier HANCOCK (CV-19) is commissioned at Fore River, Mass.

04/16 Sat. Battleship WISCONSIN (BB-64) is commissioned at Philadelphia, Pa. 

04/17 Mon. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine TROUT (SS-202), Pacific Ocean area, reported as presumed lost. 

04/19 Wed. Allied naval force (Adm. J. F. Sommerville, RN), including United States carrier SARATOGA (CV-3) and three United States destroyers, strikes enemy positions at Sabang, Netherlands East Indies. 

04/20 Thu. Japanese submarine sunk: RO-45, by submarine SEAHORSE (SS-304), off Marianas Islands, 15 d. 19' N., 145 d. 31' E.

04/20   Operated off the coast of New Guinea in support of the landings.

04/21 Fri. Naval task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher), including carriers, battleships, cruisers, and destroyers, bombs and bombards enemy airfields and defensive positions at Hollandia, Wakde, Sawar, and Sarmi areas of New Guinea; attacks continue on 22 April.

04/21   Operated off the coast of New Guinea in support of the landings.

04/22 Sat. Army forces land at Aitape, Tanahmerah Bay, and Humboldt Bay in New Guinea. The assault operation is under the control of Rear Adm. D. E. Barbey and supported by gunfire and carrier-based aircraft from Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher's carrier task force. Submarine REDFIN (SS-272) lays mines off Sarawak, Borneo.

04/22   Operated off the coast of New Guinea in support of the landings.

04/23 Sun. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer AMAGIRI, by mine, Makassar Strait, Netherlands East Indies area, 02 d. 12' S., 116 d. 45' E. 

04/26 Wed. Japanese submarine sunk: I-180, by destroyer escort GILMORE (DE-18), North Pacific area, 55 d. 10' N., 155 d. 40' W. 

04/27 Thu. United States naval vessel sunk: Cargo ship ETAMIN (AK-93), by aircraft torpedo, western New Guinea area, 03 d. 09' S., 142 d. 24' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Light cruiser YUBARI, by submarine BLUEGILL (SS- 242), southwest of the Palau Islands, 05 d. 20' N., 132 d. 16' E. Minelayer KAMONE, by submarine HALIBUT (SS-232), off Ryukyu Islands, 27 d. 37' N., 128 d. 11' E. 

04/28 Fri. Secretary of the Navy Frank Knox dies at Washington, D. C. Japanese submarine sunk: I-183, by submarine POGY (SS-266), off Kyushu, Japan, 32 d. 07' N., 133 d. 03' E.

04/29 Sat. Aircraft from fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher), including 12 carriers, commence 2-day bombing attack on Japanese shipping, oil and ammunition dumps, aircraft facilities, and other installations at Truk, Caroline Islands. United States naval vessels sunk: PT-346 and PT-347, accidentally by friendly aircraft, Bismarck Archipelago area, 04 d. 13' S., 151 d. 27' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine I-174, by aircraft from light carrier MONTEREY (CVL-26) and destroyers MACDONOUGH (DD- 351) and STEPHEN POTTER (DD-538), Caroline Islands area, 06 d. 13' N., 151 d. 19' E. River gunboat TAHURE, by submarine FLASHER (SS- 249), South China Sea, 13 d. 02' N., 109 d. 28' E. 

04/29   Attacks directed at Truk and Satawan while retiring from New Guinea theater.

04/30 Sun. Cruiser and destroyer force (Rear Adm. J. B. Oldendorf) bombards enemy positions on Satawan Island, in the Namoi Group, Caroline Islands. 

04/30   Attacks directed at Truk and Satawan while retiring from New Guinea theater.

05/01 Mon. Battleship and carrier group (Vice Adm. W. A. Lee) bombards and bombs wharf area, enemy seaplane base, and other facilities on Ponape Island in the Caroline Islands. 

05/01   Ponape subjected to air attack and surface bombardment by Task Group 58.1 while returning through enemy held waters to our base at Kwajalein.

05/04 Thu. United States Naval Base and Naval Air Facility, Majuro Atoll, Marshall Islands, are established.

05/04   Anchored in Kwajalein Lagoon.

05/05 Fri. Admiral S. Toyoda's appointment as Commander in Chief of Japanese Combined Fleet is announced; he succeeds Admiral Koga, killed in an airplane crash on 31 March 1944. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-247, by coastal defense gun, Solomon Islands area, 06 d. 38' s., 156 d. 01' E. 

05/08 Mon. Carrier TICONDEROGA (CV-14), is commissioned at Newport News, Va. 

05/10 Wed. United States Naval Base, Eniwetok, Marshall Islands, is established. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Old destroyer KARUKAYA, by submarine COD (SS-224), Philippine Islands area, 15 d. 38' N., 119 d. 25' E.

05/11 Thu. Submarine CREVALLE (SS-291) evacuates 28 women and children from Negros, P. I. 

05/13 Sat. Naval land-based and Army aircraft stage heavy bombing attack on Japanese installations at Jaluit Atoll, Marshall Islands; attack continues on 14 May. 

05/14   At anchor in Majuro Atoll Lagoon.

05/14 Sun. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer INAZUMA, by submarine BONEFISH (SS-223), Celebes Sea, 03 d. 08' N., 119 d. 38' E. 

05/15 Mon. United States Naval Air Bases, Ebeye and Roi-namur, Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands, are established.

05/16 Tue. Japanese submarine sunk: I-176, by destroyers FRANKS (DD-554) and HAGGARD (DD-555), north of Solomon Islands, 04 d. 01' S., 156 d. 29' E.

05/17 Wed. Army troops land at Wakde-Toem area, New Guinea, preceded by cruiser and destroyer bombardment (Rear Adm. R. S. Berkey). Allied task force (Adm. J. F. Somerville, RN) including United States carrier SARATOGA (CV-3) bombs enemy shipping and harbor installations at Surabaya, Java. Destroyers bombard Japanese defenses on Eniben Island, Maloelap Atoll in the Marshall Islands. 

05/18 Thu. United States Naval Base and Naval Air Station, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands, are established.

05/19 Fri. James Forrestal of New York, Under Secretary of the Navy since 1940, becomes Secretary of the Navy. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. A. E. Montgomery) bomb Marcus Island; attack continues on 20 May. Japanese submarine sunk: I-16, by destroyer escort ENGLAND (DE-635), Solomon Islands area 05 d. 10' S., 158 d. 10' E. 

05/21 Sun. Naval land-based and Army aircraft heavily attack enemy positions on Wotje Atoll in the Marshall Islands. 

05/22 Mon. Destroyers bombard installations in the Wotje Atoll, Marshall Islands. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer ASANAGI, by submarine POLLACK (SS-180), southeast of Japan, 28 d. 20' N., 138 d. 57' E. Submarine RO-106, by destroyer escort ENGLAND (DE- 635), north of Bismarck Archipelago, 01 d. 40' N., 150 d. 31' E.

05/23 Tue. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. A. E. Montgomery) bomb buildings and other targets on Wake Island. Japanese submarine sunk: RO-104, by destroyer escort ENGLAND (DE-635), north of Bismarck Archipelago, 01 d. 26' N., 149 d. 20' E. 

05/24 Wed. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167) lands men and supplies on Samar, P. I. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine RO-116. by destroyer escort ENGLAND (DE- 635), north of Bismarck Archipelago, 00 d. 53' N., 149 d. 14' E. Frigate IKI, by submarine RATON (SS-270), Netherlands East Indies area, 01 d. 17' N., 107 d. 50' E. 

05/26 Fri. Destroyer bombard enemy shore batteries and installations on Mili Atoll, Marshall Islands. Japanese naval submarine sunk: RO-108, by destroyer escort ENGLAND (DE-635), north of Bismarck Archipelago, 00 d.32' S., 149 d. 56' E. 

05/27 Sat. Army forces land on Biak in the Schouten Islands off New Guinea under cover of naval gunfire from cruiser and destroyer force (Rear Adm. W. M. Fechteler). United States naval vessel sunk: PT-339, damaged by grounding in western New Guinea area, 04 d. 01' S., 144 d. 41' E.; sunk by United States forces. United States naval vessel damaged: Submarine chaser SC-699, by suicide plane, western New Guinea area, 01 d. 12 S., 136 d. 13' E. 

05/28 Sun. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer STOCKTON (DD-646), by coastal defense gun, Biak Island, Schouten Islands, off New Guinea, 01 d. 00' S., 136 d. 00' E. 

05/31 Wed. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine RO-105, by destroyers HAZELWOOD (DD-531) and MCCORD (DD-534), destroyer escorts ENGLAND (DD-635), GEORGE (DE-697), and RABY (DE-698), north of Bismarck Archipelago, 00 d. 47' N., 149 d. 56' E. Frigate ISHIGAKI, by submarine HERRING (SS-233), North Pacific area, 48 d. 36' N., 151 30' E. 

06/01 Thu. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167), lands men and supplies on southwest coast of Mindanao, P. I.

06/02 Fri. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Frigate AWAJI, by submarine GUITARRO (SS-363), off Formosa, 22 d. 34' N., 121 d. 51' E.

06/03 Sat. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer REID (DD-369), by dive bomber, western New Guinea area, 01 d. 13' S., 136 d. 13' E. 

06/04 Sun. Japanese aircraft attack Allied cruiser and destroyer force (Rear Adm. V. A. C. Crutchley, RN) off Biak, New Guinea; two United States light cruisers area damaged. United States naval vessels damaged: Light cruiser NASHVILLE (CL-43), by horizontal bomber, western New Guinea area, 01 d. 05' S., 136 d. 05' E. Light cruiser PHOENIX (CL-46), by horizontal bomber, western New Guinea area, 01 d. 00' S., 136 d. 00' E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Transport No. 128, by Army aircraft, Philippine Sea, 04 d. 09' N., 129 d. 45' E. 

06/05 Mon. Submarine NAUTILUS (SS-168) lands supplies at Tucuran, Mindanao, P. I. 

06/06    Underway from Majuro en route to the Marianas.

06/08 Thu. Beginning shortly before midnight and continuing on 9 June, an Allied naval force (Rear Adm. V. A. C. Crutchley, RN), including 2 United States light cruisers and destroyers, intercepts and turns back 5 Japanese destroyers attempting to reinforce Biak Island, in the Schouten Islands off New Guinea. Submarine HARDER (SS-257) evacuates coast-watchers from northeast coast of North Borneo. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer HARUSAME, by Army aircraft, Biak area, New Guinea. Destroyer KAZAGUMO, by submarine HAKE (SS-256), Mindanao, P. I., 06 d. 03' N., 125 d. 57' E.

06/09 Fri. Destroyers bombard Japanese repair facilities in the Fangelawa Bay area, New Ireland. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer MATSUKAZE, by submarine SWORDFISH (SS- 193), off Bonin Islands, 26 D. 59' N., 143 d. 13' E. Destroyer TANIKAZE, by submarine HARDER (SS-257), Celebes Sea, 05 d. 42' N., 120 d. 41' E. 

06/11 Sun. Battleship MISSOURI (BB-63) is commissioned at New York, N. Y. Japanese submarine sunk: RO-111, by destroyer TAYLOR (DD-468), north of Bismarck Archipelago, 00 d. 26' N., 149 d. 16' E. 

06/11   Strikes launched against Guam.

06/12 Mon. Aircraft from 15 carriers of fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) bomb enemy air facilities and coast defenses on Saipan, Tinian, Guam, Rota, and Pagan Islands in the Marianas Islands. Two Japanese convoys area attacked and damaged. Carrier aircraft continue strikes in the Marianas Islands on 13 and 14 June. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer KALK (DD-611), by horizontal bomber, western New Guinea area, 01 d. 19' S., 136 d. 19' E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Torpedo boat OTORI, by carrier-based aircraft, Marianas Islands area.

06/12   Strikes launched against Guam.

06/13 Tue. Battleship and destroyer task group (Vice Adm. W. A. Lee) bombards Japanese installations on Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands. Cruiser and destroyer force (Rear Adm. E. G. Small) bombards enemy positions on Matsuwa Island in the Kurile Islands. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167), shells oil tanks at Bula, Ceram Island, Netherlands East Indies. Japanese submarine sunk: RO-36, by destroyer MELVIN (DD-680), Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 21' N., 147 d. 00' E. 

06/13   Strikes launched against Guam.

06/14 Wed. Two task groups of battleships, cruisers, and destroyers (Rear Adm. J. B. Oldendorf and Rear Adm. W. L. Ainsworth) bombard Japanese installation on Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands. United States naval vessels damaged: Battleship CALIFORNIA (BB-44), by coastal defense gun, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 12' N., 145 d. 42' E. Destroyer BRAINE (DD-630), by coastal defense gun, Marianas Islands area, 15 d.02' N., 145 d. 50' E.

06/15 Thu. Naval task force (Vice Adm. R. K. Turner) lands Marines (Lt. Gen. H. M. Smith) on Saipan, Marianas Islands, under cover of intensive naval gunfire and carrier-based aircraft. Carrier-based aircraft from two task groups (Rear Adm. J. J. Clark and Rear Adm. W. K. Harrill) bomb Japanese installations on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, and Chichi Jima and Haha Jima in the Bonin Islands; attack on Iwo Jima is repeated 16 June. United States naval vessel damaged: Battleship TENNESSEE (BB-43), by coastal defense gun, Saipan, Marianas Islands, 15 d. 02' N., 143 d.50' E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Minelayer No. 101, by surface craft, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 15' N., 145 d. 45' E. 

06/15   Volcano and Bonin Islands attacked.

06/16 Fri. Battleship, cruiser and destroyer force (Rear Adm. W. L. Ainsworth) bombards Japanese installations on Guam, Marianas Islands. Japanese submarines sunk: RO-44, by destroyer escort BURDEN R. HASTINGS (DE- 19), Marshall Islands area, 11 d. 13' N., 164 d. 15' E. RO-114, by destroyer MELVIN (DD-680) and WADLEIGH (DD-689), Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 02' N., 144 d. 10' E. 

06/16   Volcano and Bonin Islands attacked.

06/17 Sat. United States naval vessels damaged: Escort carrier FANSHAW BAY (CVE-70), by horizontal bomber, off Marianas Islands, 15 d. 00' N., 145 d. 00' E. LST 84, accidentally by United States naval gunfire, Marianas Islands, 15 d. 10' N., 145 d. 58' E. Japanese submarine sunk: RO-117, by naval land-based aircraft (VB-109) from Eniwetok, 11 d. 05' N., 150 d. 31' E. 

06/18 Sun. United States naval vessels sunk: PT-63 and PT-107, fire, off New Ireland, 01 d. 45' s., 150 d. 01' E. United States naval vessels damaged, Marianas Islands area: Destroyer PHELPS (DD-360), by coastal defense gun, 14 d. 58' N., 146 d. 21' E. Oilers NESHANIC (AO-71), and SARANAC (AO-74), by horizontal bomber, 14 d. 45' N., 146 d. 10' E. 

06/19 Mon. Battle of the Philippine Sea (19-20 June) opens as Japanese carrier-based aircraft attack Fifth Fleet (Adm. R. A. Spruance) covering Saipan operation. Two United States battleships, two carriers, and a heavy cruiser are damaged. Japanese lose over 300 aircraft, and two aircraft carriers are sunk by United States submarines. United States naval vessels damaged: Battleship SOUTH DAKOTA (BB-57), by dive bomber, Battle of the Philippine Sea, 14 d. 10' N., 143 d. 15' E. Battleship INDIANA (BB-58), by suicide plane, Battle of the Philippine Sea, 14 d. 04' N., 143 d. 23' E. Carrier BUNKER HILL (CV-17), by dive bomber, Battle of the Philippine Sea, 14 d. 46' N., 143 d. 02' E. Carrier WASP (CV-18), by dive bomber, Battle of the Philippine Sea, 14 d. 19' N., 143 d. 48' E. Heavy cruiser MINNEAPOLIS (CA-36), by horizontal bomber, Battle of the Philippine Sea, 14 d. 11' N., 143 d. 09' E. Destroyer HUDSON (DD-475), accidentally by United States naval gunfire, Battle of the Philippine Sea, 14 d. 11' N., 143 d. 09' E. Motor minesweeper YMS-323, by coastal defense gun, Saipan, Marianas Islands, 15 d. 10' N., 145 d. 58' E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Carrier SHOKAKU, by submarine CAVALLA (SS-244), Battle of the Philippine Sea, 11 d. 50' N., 137 d. 57' E. Carrier TAIHO, by submarine ALBACORE (SS-218), Battle of the Philippine Sea, 12 d. 22' N., 137 d. 04' E. I-184, by aircraft (VT-60) from escort carrier SUWANNEE (CVE-27), Central Pacific area, 13 d. 01' N., 149 d. 53' E. 

06/19   Task Group 58.1 joined other groups of Task Force 58 to the west of the Marianas and intercepted the Japanese Fleet in the First Battle of the Philippine Sea.

06/20 Tue. Battle of the Philippine Sea (19-20 June) continues. Aircraft from Fifth Fleet carrier task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) strike Japanese fleet. One enemy carrier is sunk. In the 2-day Battle of the Philippine Sea the engaged Japanese Fleet loses 395 (92%) of its carrier planes, and 31 (72%) of its float planes. Only 35 carrier planes and 12 float planes remain operational. Besides the losses afloat, an estimated 50 land-based Japanese aircraft from Guam are destroyed. The United States Fleet loss is 130 planes and a total of 76 pilots and crewmen for the 2 days. [After the Battle of the Philippine Sea the Japanese high command thoroughly understood that the war was lost. Adm. R. A. Spruance and Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher won a great victory.] Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167) and NAUTILUS (SS-168) land supplies and evacuate certain personnel from Negros and Panay, P. I. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer PHELPS (DD-360), by coastal defense gun, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 10' N., 145 d. 58' E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Carrier HIYO, by carrier-based aircraft, Battle of the Philippine Sea.

06/20   First Battle of the Philippine Sea continues

06/22 Thu. United States naval vessels damaged: Battleship MARYLAND (BB-46), by aircraft torpedo, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 13' N., 145 d. 39' E. LST 119, by coastal defense gun, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 10' N., 145 d. 58' E. Japanese submarine sunk: I-185, by destroyer NEWCOMB (DD-586) and high-speed minesweeper CHANDLER (DMS-9), Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 50' N., 145 d. 08' E. 

06/23 Fri. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. J. J. Clark) bomb enemy air facilities on Pagan Island in the Marianas Islands.

06/23   Pagan Island attacked.

06/24 Sat. Aircraft from carrier task groups (Rear Adm. J. J. Clark and Rear Adm. A. E. Montgomery) strike Japanese airfields and facilities on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, and Pagan Island, Marianas Islands. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-193, damaged by grounding, western New Guinea area, 00 d. 55' S., 134 d. 52' E.; sunk by United States forces. 

06/24   Iwo Island subjected to heavy strikes.

06/26 Mon. Cruisers and destroyers (Rear Adm. E. G. Small) bombard enemy positions at Kurabu Zaki, Paramushiro, Kurile Islands. United States naval vessel damaged: Cargo ship MERCURY (AK-42), by aircraft torpedo, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 10; N., 145 d. 58' E. 

06/27   Task Group 58.1 entered Eniwetok Atoll in the western Marshall Islands.

06/28 Wed. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Coast defense vessel No. 24, by submarine ARCHERFISH (SS-311), western Pacific area, 24 d. 44' N., 140 d. 20' E. 

06/29 Thu. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Minelayer TSUGARU, by submarine DARTER (SS-227), Netherlands East Indies area, 02 d. 19' N., 127 d. 57 E. 
 

06/30   Oakland in company with her group sortied from Eniwetok.

07/02 Sun. Allied naval force (Rear Adm. W. M. Fechteler, USN) lands Army troops on Noemfoor Island off Netherlands New Guinea.

07/03   Strikes conducted against Iwo Jima and Bonin Islands.

07/04 Tue. Carrier-based aircraft and naval gunfire from two task groups (Rear Adm. J. J. Clark and Rear Adm. R. E. Davison) hit Japanese installations on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, and Chichi Jima and Haha Jima, Bonin Islands. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine S-28, cause unknown, during training exercises off Hawaii Islands. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Auxiliary submarine chaser NO. 16, by carrier-based aircraft, Bonin Islands area, 27 d. 00 N., 140 50'E. Coastal minesweeper SARUSHIMA, by carrier-based aircraft, Bonin Islands area, 27 d. 10 N., 142 d. 10'E. Transport NO. 103, by carrier-based aircraft, Bonin Islands area, 27 d. 05'N., 142 d. 09'E. Transport No. 130, by carrier-based aircraft, Iwo Jima area, 24 d. 47'N., 141 d. 20'E. Submarine I-10, by destroy DAVID W. TAYLOR (DD-551) and destroyer escort RIDDLE (DE-185), Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 26'N., 147 d. 48'E. 

07/04    Continue strikes against Iwo Jima and Bonin Islands.

07/06 Thu. Carrier-based aircraft commence daily bombings of Japanese coastal and antiaircraft guns, supply dumps, and airfields installations on Guam and Rota, Marianas Islands. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroy HOKAZE, by submarine PADDLE (SS-263), Celebes Sea, 03 d. 24'N., 125 d. 28'E.

07/07 Fri. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer USUGUMO, by submarine SKATE (SS-305), Kurile Islands area, 47 d. 43'N., 147 d. 55'E. Destroyer, TAMANAMI, by submarine MINGO (SS-261), South China Sea, 13 d. 55'N., 118 d. 30'E.

07/07   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/08 Sat. Cruiser and destroyer task group (Rear Adm. C. T. Joy) commences daily bombardment of enemy defenses on Guam, Marianas Islands; battleships join the bombardment group beginning 14 July. 

07/08   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/09 Sun. Organized enemy resistance ceases on Saipan, Marianas Islands. Submarine NAUTILUS (SS-168) lands men and supplies on Pandan Island off west coast of Mindoro, P. I. 

07/09   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow. Oakland and Helm (DD 388) operated in close vicinity of Guam for purpose of rescuing any downed aviators. From 1130 to 1230 the Oakland bombarded military objectives near Agat Town.

07/10   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/11   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/12   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/13 Thu. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine HERRING (SS-133), Pacific Ocean area, reported as presumed lost. 07/14 Fri. Japanese submarine sunk: I-6, by destroyer escort WILLIAM C. MILLER (DE-259), Mari- anas Islands area, 15 d. 18'N., 144 d. 26'E.

07/13   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/14   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/15 Sat. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-133, coastal defense gun, eastern New Guinea, 03 d. 28'S., 143 d. 34'E. 

07/15   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow. The ship suffered her first personnel casualty when a man accidentally fell overboard and was drowned. VELARDI, JOSEPH S F1c Lost at Sea

07/16   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/17 Mon. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Minesweeper NO. 25, by submarine GABILAN (SS-252), off Honshu, Japan, 33 d. 51'N., 138 d. 35'E.

07/17   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/18   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/19 Wed. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Light Cruiser OI, by submarine FLASHER (SS-249), South China Sea, 12 d. 45'N., 114 d. 20'E. Submarine RO-48, by destroyer escort WYMAN (DE-38), Central Pacific area, 13 d. 01'N., 151 d. 58'E.

07/19   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/20   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/21 Fri. Naval attack force (Rear Adm R. L. Conolly) lands Marines and Army forces (Maj. Gen. R. S. Geiger, USMC) on Guam, Marianas Islands. Assault is preceded by intensive naval gunfire and carrier-based aircraft attacks. United States naval vessel damaged: Submarine chaser SC-1316, by coastal mortar, Marianas Islands area, 13 d. 24'N., 144 d. 39'E. 

07/21   Operating in the vicinity of Guam, softening defenses for the landings that were to follow.

07/23 Sun. United States naval vessels damaged: Destroyer NORMAN SCOTT (DD-690), by coastal defense gun, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 02'N., 145 d. 50'E. Highspeed minesweeper CHANDLER (DMS-9), by fire, Marianas Islands, area, 15 d. 08'N., 145 d. 28'E. 

07/24 Mon. Naval attack force (Rear Adm. H. W. Hill) lands Marines (Maj. Gen. H. Schmidt) on Tinian, Marianas Islands. Landing is supported by naval gunfire, carrier aircraft, and land- based aircraft from Saipan. United States naval vessels damaged: Battleship COLORADO (BB-45), by coastal defense gun, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 02'N., 145 d. 50'E. LST 481, by coastal defense gun, Marianas Islands area, 13 d. 24'N., 144 d. 39'E. 

07/25 Tue. Aircraft of fast carrier task force: (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) attack enemy positions in the western Caroline Islands of Yap, Ulithi, Fais, Ngulu, Sorol, and Palau; strikes continue until Japanese naval vessel sunk: Minelayer SOKUTEN, by carrier-based aircraft, Palau Islands, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 20'N, 134 d. 27'E. 

07/26 Wed. United States naval vessels sunk: Submarine GOLET (SS-361), Pacific Ocean area; reported as presumed lost. Submarine ROBALO (SS-273), unknown cause, off western Palawan, P. I. Japanese submarine sunk: I-29, by submarine SAWFISH (SS-276), Luzon Strait, P. I., 20 d. 10'N., 121 d. 50'E. 

07/26   Strikes were launched by Task Group 58.1 against Yap, Ulithi, and Fais in the western Caroline Island Group.

07/27 Thu. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Transports NOs. 1 and 150, by carrier-based aircraft, Palau Islands, Caroline Islands. 

07/27   Strikes were launched by Task Group 58.1 against Yap, Ulithi, and Fais in the western Caroline Island Group.

07/28 Fri. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine I-55, by destroyer escorts WYMAN (DE-38) and REYNOLDS (DE-42), Central Pacific area, 14 d. 26'N., 152 d. 16'E. Submarine chaser (name unknown), by carrier-based aircraft, 07 d. 05'N., 134 d. 20'E. 

07/28   Strikes were launched by Task Group 58.1 against Yap, Ulithi, and Fais in the western Caroline Island Group.

07/29 Sat. United States naval vessel damaged: LST 340, by grounding, Marianas Islands area, 15 d. 10'N., 145 d. 58'E. 

07/30 Sun. Naval task force (Rear Adm. W. M. Fechteler) lands Army troops near Cape Opmarai, northwest New Guinea, and on off- shore islands of Amsterdam and Middleburg. The following day troops make shore to shore movement to Cape Sansapor. 

08/01 Tue. Organized Japanese resistance ends on Tinian, Marianas Islands. United States Naval Air Base, Tinian, Marianas Islands, established. 

08/04 Fri. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. J. J. Clark) and cruisers and destroyers (Rear Adm. L. T. DuBose) attack Japanese convoy and other shipping in the Chichi Jima are Bonin Islands. At the same time aircraft from the second carrier task group (Rear Adm. A. E. Montgomery) bomb airfield facilities on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Volcano and Bonin Island attacks: Destroyer MATSU, by carrier-based aircraft, 27 d. 40'N., 141 d. 48'E. Transport NO. 4, by carrier-based aircraft, 27 d. 07'N., 142 d. 12'E: Transport NO. 133, by carrier-based aircraft, 24 d. 47'N., 141 d. 20'E.

08/04   Task Group 58.1 attacked Iwo Jima and the Bonin Islands. Oakland, with Cruisers Sante Fe, Mobile, and Biloxi, attacked shipping northwest of Chichi Jima, sinking an enemy destroyer and a 7,500 ton AK in a night action.

08/05 Sat. Aircraft from two carrier task groups (Rear Adm. J. J. Clark and Rear Adm. A. E. Montgomery) and cruisers and destroyers (Rear Adm. L. T. DuBose) bomb and bombard enemy installations on Chichi Jima and Haha Jima, Bonin Islands. Fast Carrier Task Force is reorganized into First Fast Carrier Task Force, Pacific Fleet (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) and Second Fast Carrier Task Force, Pacific Fleet (Vice Adm. J. S. McCain). Japanese naval vessel sunk: Transport NO. 2, by carrier-based aircraft, 27 d. 05'N., 142 09'E. 

08/05   Task Group 58.1 attacked Iwo Jima and the Bonin Islands. Oakland bombarded Futami Ko area of Chichi Jima. During the bombardment the Oakland was unsuccessfully fired upon by shore batteries of 5 or 6 inch caliber.

08/06 Sun. Carrier BENNINGTON (CV-20) is commissioned at New York, N. Y 

08/07 Mon. Submarine SEAWOLF (SS-197) lands men and supplies at Tawi Tawi, P. I. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Light cruiser NAGARA, by submarine CROAKER (SS-246), west of Kyushu, Japan, 32 d. 09'N., 129 d. 53'E. Frigate KURSAGAKI, by submarine GUITARRO (SS-363), Philippine Islands area, 14 d. 51'N., 119 d. 59'E. 

08/08 Tue. Destroyers and land-based Marine aircraft from Majuro, Marshall Islands, bombard and bomb Japanese positions on Taro, Maloelap Atoll in the Marshall Islands. 

08/08   Captain Kendall S Reed, USN, relieved Captain William K Phillips, USN, as Commanding Officer.

08/09 Wed. Submarine SEAWOLF (SS-197) lands men and supplies on Palawan, P. I.

08/09   At anchor at Eniwetok for replenishment and overhaul.

08/10 Thu. Organized Japanese resistance ends on Guam, Marianas Island. 

08/13 Sun. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine FLIER (SS-250), by external explosion, Balabac Strait, North Borneo. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Submarine chaser No. 12, by submarine BLUEGILL (SS-242), Philippine Islands area, 06 d. 17'N., 126 d. 09'E. 

08/14 Mon. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Transport NO. 129, by submarine Cod (SS-224), Netherlands East Indies area, 04 d. 17'S., 126 d. 46'E. 

08/19 Sat. Submarine REDFIN (SS-272) lays mines off Sarawak, Borneo 

08/22 Tue. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Frigate SADO, by submarine HADDO (SS-255), and frigates MATSUWA and HIBURI, by submarine HARDER (SS-257), PhilippineIslands area, 14 d. 15'N., 120 d. 05'E. 

08/23 Wed. Destroyer and smaller naval vessels bombard enemy installations and positions on Aguijan Island, Marianas Islands; bombardment is repeated daily until 26 August. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer ASAKAZE, by submarine HADDO (SS-255), PhilippineIslands area, 16 d. 06'N., 119 d. 44',E. Minesweeper NO. 22, by submarine BATFISH (SS-310), Palau Islands area, 08 d. 09'N., 134 d. 38'E.

08/24 Thu. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine HARDER (SS-257), by depth charges, off west coast of Luzon, P. I. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer YUNAGI, by submarine PICUDA (SS-382), Philippine Islands area, 18 d. 46'N., 120 d. 46'E. 

08/26 Sat. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer SAMIDARE, by submarine BATFISH (SS-310), off Palau Islands, Caroline Islands. 

08/27 Sun. Submarine STINGRAY (SS-186) lands men and supplies on north- west coast of Luzon, P. I. 

08/28 Mon. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Submarine chaser NO. 77, by Army aircraft, Kurile Islands area. 

08/29 Tue. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Minesweeper NO. 28, by submarine JACK (SS-259), off the Celebes, 02 d. 03'N., 122 d. 28'E. 

08/29   Sortied with Task Group 38.2 en route to Palau.

08/30 Wed. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167) lands men and supplies on east coast of Luzon, P. I.

08/31 Thu. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. R. E. Davison) commence 3-day attack on Iwo Jima and the Bonin Islands. Bombardment by cruisers and destroyers on 1 and 2 September augments air strikes. Submarine REDFIN (SS-272) lands supplies and evacuates certain personnel from Palawan Island, P. I. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Minelayer SHIRATAKA, by submarine SEALION (SS-315), Luzon Strait, Philippine Islands area, 21 d. 05'N., 121 d. 26'E. 

09/01 Fri. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167) lands men and supplies on east coast of Luzon, P. I. United States Naval Operating Base, Saipan, Marianas Islands, is established.

09/03 Sun. Naval task group (Rear Adm. A. E. Smith) consisting of 1 carrier, 3 cruisers, and 3 destroyers strikes enemy positions on Wake Island. 

09/06 Wed. Aircraft from fast carrier force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) composed of 16 carriers, and cruisers and destroyers strike Japanese aircraft installations and defenses on Yap, Ulithi, and the Palau Islands in the western Caroline Islands group. Attacks continue through 8 September. 

09/06   Aircraft from Task Group 38.2 struck Palau in company with planes from Task Group 38.1 and 38.3.

09/07 Thu. Army forces supported by naval vessels land on Soepiori Island in the Schouten Islands off New Guinea. 

09/07   Aircraft from Task Group 38.2 struck Palau in company with planes from Task Group 38.1 and 38.3.

09/08   Aircraft from Task Group 38.2 struck Palau in company with planes from Task Group 38.1 and 38.3.

09/09 Sat. Aircraft from fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) commence 2-day strike against Japanese shipping, facilities, and aircraft at Mindanao, P. I.

09/09   The Philippines were brought under attack for the first time when  planes from Task Force 38 hit Mindinao.

09/10   Continued Philippines attack by Force 38.

09/11 Mon. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Submarine chaser NO. 165, by submarine ALBACORE (SS-218), off Kyushu, Japan, 32 d. 20'N., 131 d. 50'E. 

09/12 Tue. Aircraft from fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) commence 3-day attack on Japanese airfields and shipping in the Visayas, P. I. On 14 September one carrier group (Vice Adm. J. S. McCain) shifts operations to targets on Mindanao, P. I. United States naval vessels sunk: High-speed transport NOA (APD-24), by collision, Palau Islands area, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 01'N., 134 d. 30'E. United States vessel damaged: Destroyer FULLAM (DD-474), by collision, Palau Islands area, Caroline Islands, 07 01'N., 134 d. 30'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer SHIKINAMI, by submarine GROWLER (SS-215), South China Sea, 18 d. 16'N., 114 d. 40'E. Frigate HIRATO, by submarine GROWLER (SS-215), South China Sea, 17 d. 54'N., 114 d. 49'E. 

09/12   Central Philippines were attacked by Task Group 38.2.

09/13 Wed. United States naval vessel:High-speed minesweeper PERRY (DMS-17), by mine, Palau Islands area, Caroline Islands, 06 d. 53'N., 134 d. 10'E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Submarine chaser NO. 55, by carrier-based aircraft, Philippine Islands area, 10 d. 20'N., 124 d. 00'E. 

09/12   Central Philippines were attacked by Task Group 38.2.

09/14 Thu. Submarine PARGO (SS-264) lays mines near Natuna Island, South China Sea. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Transport NO. 5, by carrier-based aircraft, Philippine Islands area, 06 d. 10'N., 126 d. 00'E. 

09/12   Central Philippines were attacked by Task Group 38.2.

09/15 Fri. 1st Marine Division (Maj. Gen. W. H. Rupertus) lands at Peleliu, Palau Islands. The operation is commanded by Vice Adm. T. S. Wilkinson, and the landing is preceded by several days of intensive carrier-based aircraft bombing and ship gunfire bombardment. Naval task force (Rear Adm. D. E. Barbey) lands Army troops (Maj. Gen. J. C. Persons) on Morotai Island, Netherlands East Indies; assault is supported by cruisers and destroyers (Rear Adm. R. S. Berkey) and aircraft from escort carriers (Rear Adm. T. L. Sprague). Submarine STINGRAY (SS-186) lands men and stores on Majoe Island, Molucca Sea. Carrier SHANGRI LA (CV-38) is commissioned at Norfolk, Va. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Transport NO. 3, by submarine GUAVINA (SS-362), Philippine Islands area, 05 d. 34'N., 125 d. 23'E. 

09/16 Sat. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer WADLEIGH (DD-689), by mine, Palau Islands area, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 51'N., 134 d. 39'E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Escort carrier UNYO, by submarine BARB (SS-220), South China Sea, 19 d. 18'N., 116 d. 26'E. 

09/17 Sun. Army troops land on Angaur, Palau Islands, supported by carrier-based aircraft and naval gunfire.

09/19 Tue. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-371, damaged by grounding, Netherlands East Indies area, 02 d. 05'N., 127 d. 51'E.; sunk by United States forces. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Frigate IOSHIMA, by submarine SHAD (SS-235), off Honshu, Japan, 33 d. 40' N., 138 d. 18'E. 

09/21 Thu. Aircraft from 12 carriers (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) commence 2-day attack against Japanese shipping and airfields on Luzon, P. I. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Philippine Islands area: Destroyer SATSUKI, by carrier-based aircraft, Manila Bay Oiler SUNOSAKI, by carrier-based aircraft, Manila Bay. Surveying ship KATSURIKI, by submarine HADDO (SS- 255) west of Manila, 13 d. 35'N., 119 d. 06'E. Coast defense vessel NO. 5, by carrier-based aircraft, north of Masinloc, 15 d. 25'N., 119 d. 50'E. Auxiliary submarine chaser NO. 39, by carrier-based aircraft, 12 d. 18'N., 122 d. 46'E. Minesweeper NO. 7, carrier-based aircraft, 12 d. 18'N., 122 d. 46'E. 

09/21   Luzon was the center of attack as planes from Task Force 38 struck at Manila Bay area.

09/22 Fri. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167) lands men and supplies on south west coast of Mindanao, P. I. 

09/21   Luzon was the center of attack as planes from Task Force 38 struck at Manila Bay area

09/23 Sat. Naval task group (Rear Adm. W. H. P. Blandy) lands Army troops at Ulithi Atoll, Caroline Islands.

09/24 Sun. Aircraft from 12 carriers (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) attack aircraft, ground installations, and shipping in the Visayas, P. I. United States naval vessel sunk: Motor minesweeper YMS-19, by mine, Palau Islands area, Caroline Islands, 06 d. 53'N., 134 d. 10'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk by carrier-based aircraft, Visayas area raid, Philippine Islands: Torpedo boat HAYABUSA, 13 d. 00'N., 122 d. 00'E. Seaplane tender AKITSUSHIMA, 11 d. 59'N., 120 d. 02'E. Minelayer YAEYAMA, 12 d. 15'N., 121 d. 00'E. Submarine chaser NO. 32, 12 d. 15'N., 121 d. 00'E. 

09/25 Mon. Submarine NAUTILUS (SS-168) lands supplies on Cebu, P. I. 

09/26 Tue. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine I-175, by destroyer escort MCCOY REYNOLDS (DE-440), northeast of Palau Islands, Caroline Islands, 09 d. 19'N., 136 d. 44'E. Minelayer AOTAKA, by submarine PARGO (SS-264), off Borneo, 07 d. 00'N., 116 d. 00'E.

09/27 Wed. Submarines NARWHAL (SS-167) and STINGRAY (SS-186) land supplies on north coast of Mindanao, P, I., and east coast of Luzon, P. I., respectively. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Coast defense vessel NO. 10, by submarine torpedo, East China Sea, 29 d. 26'N., 128 d. 50 E. 

09/28 Thu. Marines occupy Ngesebus and Kongauru Islands in the Palau Islands, under cover of naval aircraft and gunfire support. 

09/28   Anchored at Saipan for one day.

09/29 Fri. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167) evacuates 81 Allied prisoners of war from Sindangan Bay, Mindanao, P. I. These men are survivors from the torpedoed Japanese ship SHINYO MARU. 

09/30 Sat. Submarine NAUTILUS (SS-168) lands supplies and evacuates certain personnel from near Libertad, Panay, P. I.

10/01 Sun. Office of Deputy Commander in Chief United States Fleet and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Vice Adm. R. S. Edwards) is established. United States naval vessel sunk: Motor minesweeper YMS-385, by mine, western Caroline Islands area, 09 d. 52'N., 139 d. 37'E. Destroyer BAILEY (DD-492), by strafing, Palau Islands area, Caroline Islands, 06 d. 59'N., 134 d. 13'E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Coastal minelayer AJIRO, by submarine SNAPPER (SS- 185), northwest of Bonin Islands, 28 d. 11'N., 139 d. 30'E. 

10/02 Mon. United States naval vessels damaged by storm, Palau Islands, Caroline Islands: LST 129, LST 278, and LST 661, 06 d. 59'N., 134 d. 13'E. 

10/02   Entered Ulithi Atoll Lagoon with Task Force 38.

10/03 Tue. United States naval vessels sunk: Submarine SEAWOLF (SS-197), accidentally by United States forces, off Morotai Island, Netherlands East Indies. Destroyer Escort SHELTON (DE-407), by submarine torpedo Netherlands East Indies area, 02 d. 33'N,, 129 d. 18'E. Japanese submarine sunk: I-364, by destroyer escort SAMUEL S. MILES (DE- 183), Palau Islands area, Caroline Islands, 07 d. 48'N., 133 d. 18'E.

10/06 Fri. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Gunboat SAGA, by mine, off Hong Kong, 22 d. 17'N., 114 d. 10'E. Coast defense vessel NO. 21, by submarine SEAHORSE (SS-304), South China Sea, 19 d. 17'N, 118 d. 08'E. 

10/06   Sortied from Ulithi with Task Group 38.2 and set course for Okinawa.

10/08 Sun. Land-based aircraft from the Marianas Islands increase tempo of air strikes on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. 

10/09 Mon. Cruiser and destroyer group (Rear Adm. A. E. Smith) bombards enemy coast defense positions on Marcus Island. Carrier RANDOLPH (CV-15) is commissioned at Newport News, Va. 

10/10 Tue. Aircraft from fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) composed of 17 carriers, escorted by 5 battleships, 14 cruisers, and 58 destroyers bomb Japanese shipping and shore facilities on Okinawa and other islands in the Ryukyus. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Ryukyu Islands area: Submarine tender JINGEI, by carrier-based aircraft, 26 d. 39'N., 127 d. 52'E. Transport NO. 158, by carrier-based aircraft, 26 d. 38'N., 127 d. 52'E.

10/10   Strikes launched against Okinawa.

10/11 Wed. Aircraft from two carrier task groups (Vice Adm. J. S. McCain and Rear Adm. R. E. Davison) attack airfields and other enemy facilities in northern Luzon, P. I. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-368, by grounding, western New Guinea area, 01 d. 59'N., 127 d. 57'E; sunk by United States forces. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Transport NO. 105, by submarine TREPANG (SS-412), off Honshu, Japan, 33 d. 18'N., 137 d. 42'E.

10/12 Thu. Carrier-based aircraft from Third Fleet (Adm. W. F. Halsey) commence 5-day attack against enemy shipping, airfield facilities, and industrial plants on Formosa and northern Luzon, P. I. These strikes meet with intensive counterattacks by Japanese aircraft. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer PRICHETT (DD-561), accidentally by United States naval gunfire, Formosa area, 21 d. 08'N., 123 d. 19'E. 

10/12   Formosa was struck by Task Force 38. Violent enemy air opposition was experienced.

10/13 Fri. Peleliu Island in the Palau Islands is secured. United States naval vessels damaged, Luzon, P. I., and Formosa area: Carrier FRANKLIN (CV-13), by suicide plane, 22 d. 55'N., 123 d. 12'E. Heavy cruiser CANBERRA (CA-70), by aircraft torpedo, 22 d. 48'N., 123 d. 01'E.

10/13   Formosa was struck by Task Force 38. Violent enemy air opposition was experienced

10/14 Sat. United States naval vessels damaged, Luzon, P. I., and Formosa area: Carrier HANCOCK (CV-19), by horizontal bomber, 23 d. 30'N., 121 d. 30'E. Light cruiser HOUSTON (CL-81), by aircraft torpedo, 22 d. 27'N., 124 d. 01'E. Light cruiser Reno (CL-96), by suicide plane, 22 d. 30'N., 124 d. 50'E. Destroyer COWELL (DD-547), by collision, 22 d. 27'N., 124 d. 01'E. Destroyer CASSIN YOUNG (DD-793), by strafing, 22 d. 30'N 124 d. 50'E. 

10/14   Formosa was struck by Task Force 38. Violent enemy air opposition was experienced. Oakland was shifted to Task Group 38.1 to cover the withdrawal of 2 damaged cruiers.

10/15 Sun. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. R. E. Davison) bomb targets in the Manila area, Luzon, P. I. Command designated Minecraft, Pacific Fleet (Rear Adm. A. Sharp), is established. United States naval vessel damaged: Carrier FRANKLIN (CV-13), by horizontal bomber, Philippine Islands area, 16 d. 29'N., 123 d. 57'E.

10/16 Mon. United States naval vessel damaged: Light cruiser HOUSTON (CL-81), by aircraft torpedo, off Luzon, P. I., 20 d. 54'N., 125 d. 09'E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Torpedo boat HATO, by Army aircraft, East China Sea, 21 d. 49'N., 115 d. 50'E. 

10/17 Tue. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. R. E. Davison bomb Japanese airfields on Luzon, P. I. Army troops are landed on Suluan and Dinagat Islands at the entrance to Leyte Gulf, P. I. Submarine Narwhal (SS-167) lands supplies on northeast coast of Tawi Tawi, P. I. United States naval vessel sunk: Motor minesweeper YMS-70, by storm, off Leyte, P. I. 10 d. 56'N., 125 d. 12'E. United States naval vessel damaged: Minelayer MONTGOMERY (DM-17), by mine, east of Palau Islands, Caroline Islands, 10 d. 56'N., 125 d. 12'E. 

10/17   Luzon was attacked by planes of Task Group 38.1.

10/18 Wed. Aircraft from three task groups of the Third Fleet (Adm. W. F. Halsey), including 13 carriers, attack Japanese installations and shipping in northern Luzon and the Manila area, P. I. Cruiser task group (Rear Adm. J. B. Oldendorf) bombards enemy shore installations on Leyte, P. I. Army troops land on Homonhon Island at the entrance to Leyte Gulf, P. I. United States naval vessel damaged: High-speed transport GOLDSBOROUGH (APD-32), by coastal defense gun, Leyte Gulf area, 10 d. 57'N., 125 d. 02'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Auxiliary submarine chaser NO. 95, by carrier-based aircraft, Luzon area, P. I., 18 d. 54'N., 121 d. 51'E. Transports NOs. 135 and 136, by carrier-based aircraft, Luzon area P. I., 17 d. 46'N., 120 d. 25'E. 

10/18   Luzon was attacked by planes of Task Group 38.1.

10/19 Thu. Submarine NARWHAL (SS-167) lands men and supplies on southwest coast of Negros, P. I. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte area, P. I.: Escort carrier SANGAMON (CVE-16), by horizontal bomber, 10 d. 46'N., 126 d. 23'E. Destroyer ROSS (DD-563), by mine, 10 d. 17'N., 125 d. 40'E. Destroyer AULICK (DD-569), by coastal defense gun, 11 d. 13'N., 125 d. 02'E. Salvage vessel PRESERVER (ARS-8), by horizontal bomber, 10 d. 50'N., 125 d. 25'E. 

10/19   Luzon was attacked by planes of Task Group 38.1.

10/20 Fri. Army forces land on Leyte, P. I., supported by naval gunfire and carrier-based aircraft. The overall commander is Gen. Douglas MacArthur, the naval commander is Vice Adm. T. C. Kinkaid, and the ground troops are commanded by Lt. Gen. W. Krueger. Naval Operating Base, Guam, Marianas Islands, is established. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte area, P. I.: Light cruiser HONOLULU (CL-48), by aircraft torpedo, 11 d. 01'N., 125 d. 07'E. Destroyer BENNION (DD-662), by coastal defense gun, 10 d. 50'N., 125 d. 25'E. LST 452, by coastal defense gun, 11 d. 10'N., 125 d. 01'E. 

10/20 Attacking aircraft were directed against the beaches of Leyte as landing operation commenced.

10/21 Sat. Carrier-based aircraft (Rear Adm. G. F. Bogan) attack Panay, Cebu, Negros, and Masbate, P. I. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte area, P. I.: Transport WARHAWK (AP-168), by collision, 10 d. 57'N., 125 d. 02'E. LST 269, LST 483, LST 486, and LST 704, by coastal mortars, 10 d. 50'N., 125 d. 25'E. 

10/22 Sun. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Auxiliary submarine chaser NO. 5, by carrier-based aircraft, Leyte area, P. I., 12 d. 55'N., 121 d. 35'E. 

10/23 Mon. Battle for Leyte Gulf (13-16 October) opens as United States submarines off Palawan Island sight and attack the Center Force of three Japanese naval groups moving on Leyte in a major effort to drive United States forces from the Philippines. Two enemy cruisers are sunk. Submarine NAUTILUS (SS-168) lands men and supplies on east coast of Luzon, P. I. (Operation continues on 24 and 25 October) Japanese naval vessels sunk, off Palawan, P. I.: Heavy cruiser MAYA, by submarine DACE (SS-247), 09 d. 11'N., 117 d. 07'E. Heavy cruiser ATAGO, by submarine DARTER (SS-227), 09 d. 28'N., 117 d. 17'E. 

10/24 Tue. Battle for Leyte Gulf (23-26 October) continues. Carrier-based aircraft (Vice Adm. M. A. Mitscher) locate and heavily attack the Japanese Center Force south of Mindoro in the Sibuyan Sea, and the Southern Force steaming through the Sulu Sea., Enemy aircraft counter attack United States forces. During the night, the United States fast carriers move north from San Bernardino Strait to be in a position for dawn strikes against the enemy Northern Force. The Japanese Center Force moves through San Bernardino Strait and south toward Leyte Gulf. United States naval vessels sunk: Light carrier PRINCETON (CVL-23), damaged by dive bomber, Battle for Leyte Gulf, 15 d. 12'N., 123 d. 36'E.; sunk by United States forces. Submarine DARTER (SS-117), damaged by grounding, Bombay Shoal, Palawan Passage, P. I.; destroyed by United States forces. Submarine TANG (SS-306), by circular run of her own torpedo, north of Formosa. Ocean tug SONOMA (ATO-12), by suicide plane, Battle for Leyte Gulf, 10 d. 57'N., 125 d. 02'E. United States naval vessels damaged, Battle for Leyte Gulf: Light cruiser BIRMINGHAM (CL-62) and destroyers MORRISON (DD-560), GATLING (DD-671), and IRWIN (DD-794), by rolling against PRINCETON (CVL-23) while alongside, and by fragments from her exploding magazines. Destroyer LEUTZE (DD-481), by horizontal bomber, 10 d. 50'N., 125 d. 25'E. Destroyer ALBERT W. GRANT (DD-649), by naval gunfire, 10 d. 27'N., 125 d. 25'E. Oiler ASHTABULA (A0-51), by aircraft torpedo, 11 d. 03'N., 125 d. 22'E. LST 552, by horizontal bomber, 11 d. 11'N., 125 d. 05'E. LST 695, by underwater explosion, 08 d. 31'N., 128 d. 34'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Battle for Leyte Gulf: Battleship MUSASHI, by carrier-based aircraft, Sibuyan Sea, 12 d. 50'N., 122 d. 35'E. Destroyer WAKAHA, by carrier-based aircraft, 11 d. 50'N., 121 d. 25'E. Submarine I-362, by destroyer escort RICHARD M. ROWELL (DD-403), 09 d. 45'N., 126 d. 45'E. 

10/24   Oakland with Task Group 38.1 en route to Ulithi; at 1030 Commander Third Fleet ordered Task Group to return, because of Jap Fleet entering Sibuyan Sea and Sulu Sea.

10/25 Wed. Battle for Leyte Gulf (13-16 October) continues. Japanese Southern Force enters Surigao Strait where it is engaged and virtually destroyed by Rear Adm. J. B. Oldendorf's force of battleships, cruisers, destroyers, and motor torpedo boats (Battle of Surigao Strait). Meanwhile, the Japanese Center Force, including 4 battleships and 5 cruisers, having passed into the Philippine Sea during the night, attacks 6 escort carriers and screening vessels commanded by Rear Adm. C. A. F. Sprague (Battle off Samar). After inflicting severe damage on this light United States force, the enemy Center Force retires without molesting the landing operations in the Leyte Gulf area. At the same time, carrier aircraft from Third Fleet (Adm. W. F. Halsey) locate and strike the Japanese Northern Force. Four Japanese carriers and other vessels are sunk (Battle off Gape Engano). Submarine NAUTILUS (SS-168) lands men and supplies on east coast of Luzon, P. I. United States naval vessels sunk, Battle for Leyte Gulf: Escort carrier ST. LO (CVE-63), by suicide plane, 11 d. 10'N., 126 d. 05'E. Escort carrier GAMBIER BAY (CVE-73), by naval gunfire, 11 d. 31'N., 125 d. 12'E. Destroyer HOEL (DD-533), by naval gunfire, 11 d. 46'N,, 126 d. 33'E. Destroyer JOHNSTON (DD-557), by naval gunfire, 11 d. 40'N., 126 d. 20'E. Destroyer escort SAMUEL B. ROBERTS (DE-413), by naval gunfire, 11 d. 40'N., 126 d. 20'E. PT-493, by coastal defense gun, 10 d. 15'N., 125 d. 23'E. United States naval vessels damaged, Battle for Leyte Gulf: Escort carrier SANGAMON (CVE-26), by suicide plane, 09 d. 45'N., 126 d. 42'E. Escort carrier SUWANEE (CVE-27), by suicide plane, 09 d. 45'N., 126 d. 42'E. Escort carrier SANTEE (CVE-29) by suicide plane and submarine torpedo, 09 d. 45'N., 126 d. 42'E. Escort carrier WHITE PLAINS (CVE-66), by suicide planes and naval gunfire, 11 d. 40'N., 126 d. 20'E. Escort carrier KALININ BAY (CVE-68), by suicide plane, 11 d. 10'N., 126 d. 20'E., and naval gunfire, 11 d. 40'N., 126 d. 20'E. Escort carrier FANSHAW BAY (CVE-70), by naval gunfire, 11 d. 40'N., 126 d. 20'E. Escort carrier KITKUN BAY (CVE-71), by suicide plane, 11 d. 10'N., 126 d. 20'E. Destroyer HEERMAN (DD-523), by naval gunfire, 11 d. 30'N., 126 d. 15'E. Destroyer escort RICHARD M. ROWELL (DE-403), by strafing, 10 d. 05'N., 127 d. 10 E. Destroyer escort DENNIS (DE-405), by naval gunfire, 11 d. 40'N., 126 d. 20'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Battle for Leyte Gulf: Carrier ZUIKAKU, by carrier-based aircraft, 19 d. 20'N., 125 d. 51'E. Light carrier CHITOSE, by carrier-based aircraft and surface craft, 19 d. 20'N., 126 20'E. Light carrier CHIYODA, by carrier-based aircraft, 18 d. 37'N., 126 d. 45'E. Light carrier ZUIHO, by carrier-based aircraft, 19 d. 20'N., 125 d. 51'E. Battleships FUSO and YAMASHIRO, by surface craft, 10 d. 25'N., 125 d. 20'E. Heavy cruisers CHIKUMA, CHOKAI and SUZUYA, by carrier-based aircraft, 11 d. 30'N., 126 d. 30'E, Heavy cruiser MOGAMI, by carrier-based aircraft and surface craft, 09 d. 40'N., 124 d. 50'E. Light cruiser TAMA, by carrier-based aircraft and submarine JALLAO (SS-368), 21 d. 23'N., 127 d. 19'E. Destroyers ASAGUMO, MICHISHIO and YAMAGUMO, by surface craft, 10 d. 25'N., 125 d. 20'E. Destroyer AKIZUKI, by submarine HALIBUT (SS-232), 20 d. 29'N., 126 d. 36'E. Destroyer HATSUZUKI, by surface craft, 20 d. 24'N., 126 d. 20'E. 

10/25   Task Group 38.1 fueled and stood toward Leyte Gulf. At 1025 strikes were launched which hit the main Jap battle force to the east of Samar, and hastened its withdrawal.

10/26 Thu. Battle for Leyte Gulf (23-26 October) ends as carrier-based and Army aircraft bomb the retiring Japanese ships which have survived the previous days' action. United States naval vessels damaged, Battle for Leyte Gulf. Escort carrier SUWANNEE (CVE-27), by dive bomber and suicide plane, 09 d. 37'N., 126 d. 53'E. PT-131, by dive bomber, 09 d. 00'N., 125 d. 00'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Battle for Leyte Gulf: Light cruiser ABUKUMA, by surface craft, 09 d. 20'N., 122 d. 32'E. Light cruiser KINU, by carrier-based aircraft, 11 d. 46'N., 123 d. 11'E. Light cruiser NOSHIRO, by carrier-based aircraft, 11 d. 35'N. 121 d. 45'E. Destroyer HAYASHIMO, by carrier-based aircraft, 19 d. 05'N., 121 d. 50'E. Destroyer NOWAKI, by surface craft, 13 d. 00'N., 124 d. 54'E. Destroyer URANAMI, by carrier-based aircraft, 11 d. 50'N., 123 d. 00'E.

10/26   Task Group 38.1 steamed in the vicinity of San Bernardino Straits conducting strikes against the fleeing Jap Fleet.

10/27 Fri. Aircraft from two carrier task groups (Rear Adm. F. C. Sherman and Rear Adm. R. E. Davison) attack enemy ships and installations in the Visayas and northern Luzon area, P. I. Submarine NAUTILUS (SS-168) lands men and supplies on east coast of Luzon, P. I. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte area, P. I.: Battleship CALIFORNIA (BB-44), by strafing, 16 d. 57'N., 125 d. 02'E. Submarine chaser PCER-848, by horizontal bomber, 11 d. 11'N., 125 d. 05'E. PT-523, by dive bomber, 11 d. 15'N., 124 d. 59'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyers FUJINAMI and SHIRANUI, by carrier-based aircraft Luzon area, P. I., 12 d. 00'N., 122 d. 30'E. Transport No. 138, by submarine KINGFISH (SS-234), Volcano Islands area, 25 d. 22'N., 141 d. 31'E. 

10/28 Sat. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. R. E. Davison) bomb Japanese shipping near Cebu, P. I. United States naval vessel sunk: Destroyer escort EVERSOLE (DE-404), by submarine torpedo, Leyte area, P. I., 10 d. 18'N., 127 d. 37'E. United States naval vessel damaged: Light cruiser DENVER (CL-58), by suicide plane, Leyte area P. I., 10 d. 57'N., 125 d. 02'E. Japanese submarines sunk, Leyte area, P. I.: I-45, by destroyer escort WHITEHURST (DE-634), 10 d. 10'N., 127 d. 28'E. I-54, by destroyers GRIDLEY (DD-380) and HELM (DD- 388), 10 d. 56'N., 127 d. 13'E. 

10/29 Sun. Aircraft from carrier task group (Rear Adm. G. F. Bogan) strike enemy airfields and shipping in the Manila area, P. I. Naval Operating Base, Leyte, and Naval Air Station, Samar, P. I., are established. United States naval vessel damaged: Carrier INTREPID (CV-11), by suicide plane, Leyte area, 15 d. 07'N., 124 d. 01'E.

10/29   Task Group 38.1 anchored in Ulithi Atoll Lagoon.

10/30 Mon. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte area, P. I.: Carrier FRANKLIN (CV-13), by suicide plane, 10 d. 20'N., 126 d. 40'E. Light carrier BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), by suicide plane 10 d. 20'N., 126 d. 40'E. 

10/31 Tue. Japanese naval vessel sunk: District craft KAIYO NO. 6, by submarine GABILAN (SS-252) off Shikoku, Japan, 32 d. 50 N., 134 d. 21'E.

November and December 1944   Operated in various task groups of Task Force 38 supporting the Southwest Pacific Force amphibious operations in the Philippines. Targets on Luzon and in the Visayas were hit repeatedly.

11/01 Wed. Submarine RAY (SS-271) lands men and supplies on west coast of Mindoro, P. I. United States naval vessel sunk: Destroyer ABNER ROAD (DD-526), by suicide plane, Leyte Gulf, P. I., 10 d. 47'N., 125 d. 22'E. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte Gulf, P. I.: Destroyer ANDERSON (DD-411), by suicide plane, 10 d. 11'N., 125 d. 02'E. Destroyer BUSH (DD-529), by horizontal bomber, 10 d. 13'N., 125 d. 21'E. Destroyers CLAXTON (DD-571) and AMMEN (DD-527), by suicide planes, 10 d. 40'N., 125 d. 20'E. Destroyer KILLEN (DD-593), by horizontal bomber, 10 d. 40'N., 125 d. 20'E. 

11/02 Thu. Japanese aircraft bomb United States airstrip and planes on the ground at Tacloban, Leyte, P. I.; raid is repeated on 3 November. 

11/03 Fri. Submarine CERO (SS-215) lands men and supplies on east coast of Luzon, P. I. Japanese aircraft attack air facilities on Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands. The enemy makes a series of strikes in this area from which heavy bombing missions against the Japanese home islands are launched. United States naval vessel damaged: Light cruiser RENO (CL-96), by submarine torpedo, Leyte area, P. I., 13 d. 46'N., 131 d. 27'E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer AKIKAZE, by submarine PINTADO (SS-387), South China Sea, 16 d. 48'N., 117 d. 17'E. 

11/05 Sun. Aircraft from fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. J. S. McCain) commence 2-day attack against Japanese shipping and air installations on Luzon, P. I. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-320, by horizontal bomber, Leyte area, P. I., 11 d. 11'N.. 125 d. 05'E. United States naval vessel damaged: carrier LEXINGTON (CV-16), by suicide plane, off Luzon, P, I., 16 d. 20 N., 123 d. 59'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Heavy cruiser NACHI, by carrier-based aircraft, Manila Bay, P. I. Seaplane tender NOTORO, by Army aircraft, off Singapore, 01 d. 18'N., 103 d. 52'E. Patrol boat NO. 107, by carrier-based aircraft, Manila Bay, P. I. 

11/06 Mon. Submarine GURNARD (SS-254) lays mines off western Borneo. 

11/07 Tue. United States naval vessel damaged: PT-301, by accidental explosion, western New Guinea area, 01 d. 15'S., 136 d. 23'E. 

11/08 Wed. United States naval vessel sunk: Submarine GROWLER (SS-215), unknown cause, west of Philippine Islands. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Torpedo boat SAGI, by submarine GUNNEL (SS-253), Philippine Islands area, 16 d. 09'N., 118 d. 56'E. 

11/10 Fri. United States naval vessels sunk: PT-321, by grounding, Leyte area, P. I., 11 d. 25'N., 124 d. 19'E.; sunk by United States forces. Ammunition ship MOUNT HOOD (AE-11), by explosion, Manus, Admiralty Islands. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Coast defense vessel NO. 11, by Army aircraft, Ormoc Bay area, P, I. Patrol boat NO. 46, by submarine GREENLING (SS- 213), off Honshu, Japan, 34 d. 30'N., 138 d. 34'E. 

11/11 Sat. Aircraft from three carrier task groups (Rear Adm. F. C. Sherman) attack Japanese convoy in Ormoc Bay, Leyte, P. I.; four enemy destroyers and a minesweeper are sunk. Cruiser and destroyer task group (Rear Adm. A. E. Smith) bombards airfields and other enemy shore installations on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands; bombardment commences shortly before midnight and continues on 12 November. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Ormoc Bay, P. I.: Destroyers HAMANAMI, NAGANAMI, SHIMAKAZE, and WAKATZUKI and Minesweeper NO. 30, by carrier- based aircraft, 10 d. 50'N., 124 31'E. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte area, P. I.: Repair ship EGERIA (ARL-8) and ACHILLES (ARL-41), by suicide planes, 11 d. 11'N., 125 d. 05'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine I-37, by destroyer NICHOLAS (DD-449), south of Yap Island, 08 d. 04'N., 138 d. 03'E. Transport NO. 139, by carrier-based aircraft, Manila Bay P. I.

11/13 Mon. Aircraft of three carrier task groups (Rear Adm. F. C. Sherman) commence 2-day bombing of enemy shipping and facilities in Manila area and central Luzon, P. I. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Light cruiser KISO, destroyers AKEBONO, AKISHIMO, HATSUHARU and OKINAMI, and auxiliary submarine chaser NO. 116, by carrier-based aircraft, Manila Bay, P. I. Submarine I-38, by Coast Guard Cutter ROCKFORD (PF- 48), and minelayer ARDENT (AM-340), eastern Pacific area 31 d. 55'N., 139 d. 45'W.

11/14 Tue. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Auxiliary KURASAKI, by submarine RATON (SS-270), South China Sea, 17 d. 27'N., 117 d. 43'E. Coast defense vessel NO. 7, by submarine RAY (SS- 271), South China Sea, 17 d. 46'N., 117 d. 57'E. 

11/15 Wed. Army troops supported by naval gunfire land in the Mapia Islands off the northwest coast of New Guinea. 

11/17 Fri. United States naval vessel damaged: Attack transport ALPINE (APA-92), by suicide plane, Leyte area, P. I., 11 d. 07'N., 125 d. 02'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Escort carrier JINYO, by submarine SPADEFISH (SS- 411), Yellow Sea, 33 d. 02'N., 123 d. 33'E. Submarine I-26, by aircraft (VC-82) from escort carrier ANZIO (CVE-57) and destroyer escort LAWRENCE C. TAYLOR (DE-415), Philippine Sea, 12 d. 44'N., 130 d. 42'E. Torpedo boat HIYODORI, by submarine GUNNEL (SS- 253), South China Sea, 16 d. 56'N., 110 d. 30'E. 

11/19 Sun. Aircraft from fast carrier task force (Vice Adm. J, S. McCain) strike Japanese shipping and aircraft in the Luzon area, P. I. Units of the Seventh Amphibious Force land Army troops on Asia Island off the northwest coast of New Guinea. Japanese submarine sunk: I-177, by destroyer escorts CONKLIN (DE-439) and MCCOY REYNOLDS (DE-440), Palau Islands area, 08 d. 07'N., 134 d. 16'E. 

11/20 Mon. Submarine GAR (SS-206) lands supplies on north coast of Mindoro, P. I. United States naval vessel sunk: Oiler MISSISSINEWA (A0-59), by submarine torpedo, Marianas Islands area, 10 d. 06'N., 139 d. 43'E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Minesweeper NO. 38, by submarine ATULE (SS-403), South CHINA Sea, 21 d. 21'N., 119 d. 45'E. 

11/21 Tue. Cruiser and destroyer task force (Rear Adm. J. L. McCrea) bombards Japanese naval air installations on Matsuwa Island. Kurile Islands. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Battleship KONGO and destroyer URAKAZE, by submarine SEALION (SS-315), northwest of Formosa, 26 d. 09'N., 121 d. 23'E. 

11/22 Wed. Aircraft from carrier group (Rear Adm. R. E. Davison) bomb enemy air facilities on Yap Island, Caroline Islands. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Transport NO. 151, by submarine BESUGO (SS-321), South China Sea, 11 d. 22'N., 119 d. 07'E. 

11/23 Thu. Submarine GAR (SS-206) lands men and supplies on west coast of Luzon, P. I. United States naval vessel damaged: Attack transport JAMES O'HARA (APA-90), by suicide plane, Leyte area, P. I., 10 d. 57'N,, 125 d. 02'E. 

11/24 Fri. Army aircraft based in the Marianas Islands make first raid on Tokyo, Japan. United States naval vessel damaged: Submarine chaser PC-1124, by dive bomber, Leyte area, P. I., 10 d. 50'N., 125 d. 25'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine chaser No, 44 and transports Nos. 111, 141, and 160, by Army aircraft, Cataingan Bay, Masbate Island, P. I. 

11/25 Sat. Aircraft from two carrier groups (Rear Adm. G. F. Bogan and Rear Adm. F. C. Sherman) bomb enemy shipping and aircraft in central Luzon area, P. I. Japanese suicide planes attack United States carriers. United States naval vessel sunk: PT-363, by coastal defense gun, Netherlands East Indies area, 00 d. 55'N., 127 d. 50'E. United States naval vessels damaged: Carrier ESSEX (CV-9), INTREPID (CV-11), and HANCOCK (CV-19), by suicide planes, Luzon area, P. I., 15 d. 47'N., 123 d. 14' E. Light carrier INDEPENDENCE (CVL-22), by crash of friendly aircraft, Luzon area, P. I., 15 d. 58'N., 125 d. 14'E. Light carrier CABOT (CVL-28), by suicide plane, Luzon area, P. I., 15 d. 42'N., 123 d. 09'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Heavy cruiser KUMANO, by carrier-based aircraft, Luzon area, P. I., 15 d. 45'N., 119 d. 48'E. Cruiser YASOSHIMA, by carrier-based aircraft, Luzon area, P. I., 15 d. 40'N., 119 d. 45'E. Destroyer SHIMOTSUKI, by submarine CAVALLA (SS- 244), west of Borneo, 02 d. 21'N., 107 d. 20'E. Transports NOs. 6 and 10, by carrier-based aircraft, Marinduque Island, P. I., 13 d. 32'N., 121 d. 52'E. Coast defense vessel NO. 38, by submarine HARDHEAD (SS-365), west of Luzon, P. I., 14 d. 22'N., 119 d. 57'E. Patrol boat NO. 38, by submarine ATULE (SS-403), Luzon Strait, 20 d. 12'N., 121 d. 51'E. 

11/26 Sun. Carrier BON HOMME RICHARD (CV-31), is commissioned at New York, N. Y. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Transport NO. 161, by Army aircraft, Andaman Sea 16 d. 00'N., 97 d. 00'E. Minesweeper NO. 18, by Army aircraft, South China Sea, 16 d. 52'N., 108 d. 38'E. 

11/27 Mon. Destroyers bombard Japanese positions at Ormoc Bay, Leyte P. I.; firing continues on 28 November. Japanese suicide planes attack and damage 1 battleship and 2 cruisers in Leyte Gulf, P. I. Enemy aircraft also strike airfields and aircraft on the ground at Saipan, Marianas Islands. Organized enemy resistance on Peleliu, Palau Islands, ends. United States naval vessels sunk: Submarines ESCOLAR (SS-294) and Shark (SS-314), Pacific Ocean area, reported as presumed lost. Submarine chaser SC-744, by suicide plane, Leyte gulf area 10 d. 44'N., 125 d. 07'E. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte Gulf, P. I: Battleship COLORADO (BB-45), by suicide plane, 10 d. 50'N., 125 d. 25'E. Light cruisers ST. LOUIS (CL-49) and MONTPELIER (CL-57), by suicide planes, 10 d. 50'N., 125 d. 25'E. 

11/28 Tue. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Submarine I-46, by destroyers SAUFLEY (DD-465), WALLER (DD-466), PRINGLE (DD-477), and RENSHAW (DD-499), Leyte Gulf, P. I., 10 d. 48'N., 124 d. 35'E. Submarine I-365, by submarine SCABBARDFISH (SS-397), off Honshu, Japan, 34 d. 44'N., 141 d. 01'E. Submarine chaser NO. 53, by surface craft, Ormoc Bay, P. I., 10 d. 59'N., 124 d. 33'E. 

11/29 Wed. United States naval vessels damaged by suicide planes, Leyte Gulf, P. I. Battleship MARYLAND (BB-46), 10 d. 41'N., 125 d. 23'E. Destroyer SAUFLEY (DD-465), 10 d. 50'N., 125 d. 25'E. Destroyer AULICK (DD-569), 10 d. 35'N., 125 d. 40'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Carrier SHINANO, by submarine ARCHERFISH (SS-311), south of Honshu, Japan, 32 d. 00'N., 137 d. 00'E., Submarine chaser NO. 45, by Army aircraft, Leyte Gulf area, P. I., 10 d. 25'N., 124 00'E. Patrol boat NO. 105, by surface craft, Ormoc Bay, P. I., 10 d. 59'N., 124 d. 33'E.

12/01 Fri. United States Naval Operating Base, Kwajalein, Marshall Islands, is established.

12/02 Sat. Four destroyers bombard enemy positions at Palompon and northern Ormoc Bay, Leyte, P. I. Another group of three destroyers, (Comdr. J. C. Zahm) enters Ormoc Bay at night and is engaged by Japanese aircraft, destroyers, and shore batteries; action continues during the first 2 hours of 3 December. Submarine GUNNEL (SS-253) lands supplies and evacuates Allied aviators from Palawan, P. I.

12/03 Sun United States naval vessel sunk: Destroyer COOPER (DD-695), by torpedo from undetermined source, Ormoc Bay, P. I., 10 d. 54'N., 124 d. 36'E. United States naval vessels damaged, Ormoc Bay, P. I.: Destroyer ALLEN M. SUMNER (DD-691), by horizontal bomber. 10 d. 54'N., 124 d. 36'E. Destroyer MOALE (DD-693), by naval gunfire, 10 d. 54'N 124 d. 36'E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Destroyer KUWA, by naval gunfire, Ormoc Bay, P. I., 10 d. 50'N., 124 d. 35'E. Coast defense vessel NO. 64, by submarine PIPEFISH (SS-388), South China Sea, 18 d. 36'N., 111 d. 54'E. 

12/04 Mon. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer DRAYTON (DD-366), by horizontal bomber, Leyte area, P. I., 10 d. 00'N., 125 d. 00'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyers KISHINAMI and IWANAMI, by submarine FLASHER (SS-249), South China Sea, 13 d. 12'N , 116 d. 37'E. 

12/05 Tue. Submarine HAKE (SS-156) lands supplies on Panay, P. I. United States Naval Base, Tinian, Marianas Islands, is established. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte area, P. I.: Destroyer DRAYTON (DD-366), by suicide plane, 10 d. 10'N., 125 d. 20'E. Destroyer MUGFORD (DD-389), by suicide plane, 10 d. 15'N., 125 d. 20'E. 

12/07 Thu. Army troops are landed on the eastern shore of Ormoc Bay, Leyte, P. I., following bombardment by destroyers and rocket-firing landing craft of naval task group (Rear Adm. A. D. Struble). United States naval vessels sunk, Leyte area, P. I.: Destroyer MAHAN (DD-364), damaged by suicide plane, 10 d. 50'N., 124 d. 30'E.; sunk by United States forces. High-speed transport WARD (APD-16), damaged by suicide plane, 10 d. 51'N. 124 d. 33'E.; sunk by United States forces. United States naval vessels damaged, Leyte area, P. I.: Destroyer LAMSON (DD-367), by suicide plane, 10 d. 28'N., 124 d. 41'E. High-speed transport LIDDLE (APD-60), by suicide plane, 10 d. 57'N., 124 35'E. LST 737, by suicide plane, 10 d. 09'N., 124 d. 40'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Transport NO. 11, by Army aircraft, Leyte area, P. I., 11 d. 23'N., 124 d. 18'E. 

12/08 Fri. Cruiser and destroyer task group (Rear Adm. A. E. Smith) bombards air strips and shore batteries on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. 

12/09 Sat. United States naval vessel damaged: Attack transport CAVALIER (APA-37), by submarine torpedo, Luzon area, P. I., 14 d. 48'N., 119 d. 18'E. 

12/10 Sun United States naval vessel lost: PT-313, by suicide plane, Leyte area, P. I., 10 d. 33'N., 125 d. 14'E.; beached and abandoned. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer HUGHES (DD-410), by suicide plane, Leyte area, P. I., 10 d. 15'N., 125 d. 10'E. 

12/11 Mon. Submarine GAR (SS-206) lands supplies on west coast of Luzon, P. I. United States naval vessels sunk: Destroyer REID (DD-369), by suicide plane, Leyte area, P. I., 09 d. 50'N., 124 d. 55'E. 

h12/12 Tue. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer CALDWELL (DD-605), by suicide plane, Leyte area, P. I., 10 d. 30'N., 124 d. 42'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer UZUKI, by surface craft, Leyte area, P. I., 11 d. 03'N., 124 d. 23'E. Transport No. 159, by Marine and Army aircraft, Leyte area, P. I., 11 d. 20'N., 124 d. 10'E. 

12/13 Wed. United States naval vessels damaged, Mindanao-Negros area, P.I. Light cruiser NASHVILLE (CL-43), by suicide plane, 08 d. 57'N., 123 d. 28'E. Destroyer HARADEN (DD-585), by suicide plane, 08 d. 40'N, 122 d. 33'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Transports NOs. 11 and 104, by submarine PINTADO (SS-387), South China Sea, 20 d. 34'N., 118 d. 45'E. 

12/14 Thu. Rank of Fleet Admiral, United States Navy, is established. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Philippine Islands area: Transport NO. 109, by carrier-based aircraft, 17 d. 35'N., 120 20'E. Coast defense vessel NO. 28, by submarine BLENNY (SS-324), 15 d. 46'N., 119 d. 45'E. 

12/15 Fri. Army forces are landed on southwest coast of Mindoro, P. I., by naval task group (Rear Adm. A. D. Struble) under cover of carrier-based aircraft (Vice Adm. J. S. McCain). United States naval vessels sunk, Mindoro area, P. I.: LST 472 and LST 738, damaged by suicide plane, 12 d. 19'N., 121 d. 05'E.; sunk by United States forces. United States naval vessels damaged, Mindoro area, P. I.: Escort carrier MARCUS ISLAND (CVE-77), by suicide planes. Destroyers PAUL HAMILTON (DD-590) and HOWORTH (DD- 592), by suicide planes, 12 d. 19'N., 121 d. 02'E. PT-123, by suicide plane, 12 d. 19'N., 121 d. 05'E. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Philippine Islands area: Destroyer MOMO, by submarine HAWKBILL (SS-366), 16 d. 00'N., 117 d. 39'E. Coast defense vessel NO. 54, by carrier-based aircraft, 19 d. 25'N., 121 d. 25'E. Transport NO. 106, by carrier-based aircraft, 15 d. 30'N., 119 d. 50'E. 

12/16 Sat. Submarine DACE (SS-247) lays mines off French Indochina. 

12/17 Sun. United States naval vessel damaged: PT-84, by suicide plane, Mindoro area, P. I., 12 d. 19'N., 121 d. 04'E. 

12/18 Mon. Typhoon east of the Philippine Islands heavily damages ships of the Third Fleet. United States naval vessels sunk: Destroyers HULL (DD-350), MONAGHAN (DD-354), and SPENCE (DD-512), by typhoon, east of Philippine Islands. PT-300, by suicide plane, Mindoro area, P. I., 12 d. 19'N., 121 d. 05'E. United States naval vessels damaged by typhoon, east of Philippine Islands: Light carriers COWPENS (CVL-25), MONTEREY (CVL-26), CABOT (CVL-28), and SAN JACINTO (CVL-30); escort carrier ALTAMAHA (CVE-18), NEHENTA BAY (CVE-74), CAPE ESPERANCE (CVE-88), and KWAJAlEIN (CVE-98); light cruiser MIAMI (CL-89); destroyers DEWEY (DD- 349), AYLWIN (DD-355), BUCHANAN (DD-484), DYSON (DD-572), HICKOX (DD-673, MADDOX (DD-731), and BENHAM (DD-796); destroyer escorts MELVIN R. NAWMAN (DE-416), TABBERER (DE-418), and WATERMAN (DE-740); oiler NANTAHALA (AO-60); fleet tug JICARILLA (ATF-104). 

12/18   Oakland weathered the typhoon in which 3 destroyers capsized.

12/19 Tue. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Carrier UNRYU, by submarine REDFISH (SS-395), East China Sea, 28 d. 59'N., 124 d. 03'E. 

12/20 Wed. Organized enemy resistance ends on Leyte, P. I. 

12/21 Thu. United States naval vessels sunk: Submarines ALBACORE (SS-218) and SCAMP (SS-277), Pacific Ocean area, reported as presumed lost. LST 460 and LST 749, by suicide planes, Mindoro area, P. I. 11 d. 13'N., 121 d. 04'E. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer FOOTE (DD-511), by suicide plane, Mindoro area, P. I., 11 d. 05'N., 121 d. 20'E,

12/22 Fri. United States naval vessel sunk: LST 563, by grounding, Clipperton Island. United States naval vessel damaged: Destroyer BRYANT (DD-665), by suicide plane, Mindoro area, P. I., 12 d. 00'N., 121 d. 00'E. Japanese naval vessel sunk: Torpedo boat CHIDORI, by submarine TILEFISH (SS- 307), off Honshu, Japan, 34 d. 33 N., 138 d. 02'E. 

12/24 Sun. Cruiser and destroyer task group (Rear Adm. A. E. Smith) bombards air strips and other enemy installations on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. Japanese naval vessels sunk, Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands: Transport NO. 8, by naval gunfire, 25 d. 10'N., 141 d. 00'E. Transport No. 157, by naval gunfire, 24 d. 47'N., 141 d. 20'E.

12/24   Orders were received to return to the United States for overhaul.

12/25 Mon. Naval Air Station, Samar, P. I., is established. 

12/26 Tue. Japanese naval vessels bombard United States positions on the coast of Mindoro, P. I. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Destroyer KIYOSHIMO, by naval vessels and Army aircraft, Philippine Islands area, 12 d. 20'N., 121 d. 00'E.

12/26   Oakland departed from Ulithi.

12/27 Wed. Cruiser and destroyer task group (Rear Adm. A. E. Smith) bombards enemy installations on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. Japanese aircraft bomb shore positions and auxiliary shipping at Mindoro, P. I.; attacks are repeated on 28, 29, and 31 December. Japanese naval vessels sunk: Transports NOs. 7 and 132, by naval gunfire, Iwo Jima 24 d. 47'N., 141 d. 20'E. 

12/28 Thu. United States naval vessel sunk: LST 750, damaged by aircraft torpedo, off Negros, P. I. 09 d. 01'N., 111 d. 30'E.; sunk by United States forces. 

12/29 Sat. United States naval vessel sunk: Auxiliary PORCUPINE (IX-126), damaged by suicide plane, Mindoro area, P. I., 12 d. 2I'N., 121 d. O2'E.; sunk by United States forces. United States naval vessels damaged by suicide planes, Mindoro area, P. I.: Destroyer PRINGLE (DD-477), 12 d. 18'N., 121 d. 01'E. Destroyer GANSEVOORT (DD-608), 12 d. 21'N., 121 d. O2'E. PT-boat tender ORESTES (AGP-10), 12 d. 19'N., 121 d. 04'E.