23/02/1942
After two unsuccesfull tryouts, the morale aboard the USS Gudgeon had fallen down. They have lost lot of time and situation is going to be critical. now they have enoug compressed air for three hours under the sea or for the last try. They have done everithing in ones best. Now there is only one thing to do if they dont want to wait for certain death.
Cdr. Grenfell: "Are we realy ready?"
"Tommy" Robertson: "Cannot be better sir. I have moved all movable including some men into aft to relieve the bow. It is now or never, sir."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Dont tell me that! I know it as good as anyone aboard!"
"Tommy" Robertson: "Sorry sir."
Cdr. Grenfell draws a deep breath: "No, I am sorry. T shouldnt react that way. We are too long down here. It is time ot get some fresh air into our lungs, dont you think?"
"Tommy" Robertson: "Lets try it, sir!"
Cdr. Grenfell: "Planesman, forward planes full down, engineer, give me two thirds back speed."
Chief Engineer: "Aye-aye, sir."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Get every air we have to forward balast tank. Now!"
Squeal, groan of pressure hull and fizzle of compressed air was heaheard through the hull, but hand of bathometer only slightly shakes.
"Tommy" Robertson speaks via intercom into aft torpedo room:
"Can you try to jump a little, guys?"
intercom: "Jump, sir?"
"Tommy" Robertson: "Yes, all at once, hurry!"
intercom: "As you wish sir. Lets start to roll this piece of rusty can!"
For a moment nothing has happened, but then sub has shaken and bow suddenly jumped off the mud and headed upwards. Bathometer hand finally begins to climb up the scale.
War and Remembrance by barb
Moderators: wdolson, Don Bowen, mogami
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
"Hurrah!" was shouted by the mens aboard the USS Gudgeon. Cdr. Grenfell quickly shaked Tommys hand and smiled:
Cdr. Grenfell: "Great idea with the jumping. We must extend our training in that once back home."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Do you plan to repeat this?"
Cdr. Grenfell: "By no means!"
"Tommy" Robertson: "Depth 230ft, raising."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Ok, All man back on batlle stations. 1/3 forward, forward planes 15 degrees up."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Deck party, prepare to man the guns."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Depth?"
"Tommy" Robertson: "170ft, sir."
Cdr. Grenfell: "I will take the first watch up there."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Sir, you havent sleep for at least 40 hours."
Cdr. Grenfell: "As every man aboard. I want to be there if we encounter any Nipps."
"Tommy" Robertson: "All right sir, depth 110ft."
Cdr. Grenfell: "We cannot risk outside repairs in the night. Flashes and sounds could be seen an heard for miles."
"Tommy" Robertson: "I will say chief engineer to prepare the repair party after sunrise."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Tell them, they will be needed. They can capture some hours of sleep for now. And you could do the same."
"Tommy" Robertson: "40ft. we are going surfaced."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Lookoouts are going first, then gun crews."
"Tommy" Robertson: "We are up."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Hurry, open the hatch. Go on sailor."
First man of the deck party quickly climbed up the ledder and jumped right on the bridge. He quickly rotates with his eyes on horizon, but nothing was in sight except of darkness. Then he take his binoculars an begins his slow arc. Behind him more men climbed up manning their positions. But one of the main gun crew soon returns with bad news to captain:
gunner: "Sir the main gun is jammed."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Damned! It is repairable at sea?"
gunner: "I think no sir, The explosion must cause that gun mount bearing has jammed. We cannot rotate the gun horizontally. We will need crane to lift up the gun and repair the bearing."
Cdr. Grenfell: "What about firing?"
gunner: "It seems to me, that fire mechanism is all right."
Cdr. Grenfell: "I hope we will not encounter any Jap on our way home. We are as game dog without teeths."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Great idea with the jumping. We must extend our training in that once back home."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Do you plan to repeat this?"
Cdr. Grenfell: "By no means!"
"Tommy" Robertson: "Depth 230ft, raising."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Ok, All man back on batlle stations. 1/3 forward, forward planes 15 degrees up."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Deck party, prepare to man the guns."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Depth?"
"Tommy" Robertson: "170ft, sir."
Cdr. Grenfell: "I will take the first watch up there."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Sir, you havent sleep for at least 40 hours."
Cdr. Grenfell: "As every man aboard. I want to be there if we encounter any Nipps."
"Tommy" Robertson: "All right sir, depth 110ft."
Cdr. Grenfell: "We cannot risk outside repairs in the night. Flashes and sounds could be seen an heard for miles."
"Tommy" Robertson: "I will say chief engineer to prepare the repair party after sunrise."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Tell them, they will be needed. They can capture some hours of sleep for now. And you could do the same."
"Tommy" Robertson: "40ft. we are going surfaced."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Lookoouts are going first, then gun crews."
"Tommy" Robertson: "We are up."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Hurry, open the hatch. Go on sailor."
First man of the deck party quickly climbed up the ledder and jumped right on the bridge. He quickly rotates with his eyes on horizon, but nothing was in sight except of darkness. Then he take his binoculars an begins his slow arc. Behind him more men climbed up manning their positions. But one of the main gun crew soon returns with bad news to captain:
gunner: "Sir the main gun is jammed."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Damned! It is repairable at sea?"
gunner: "I think no sir, The explosion must cause that gun mount bearing has jammed. We cannot rotate the gun horizontally. We will need crane to lift up the gun and repair the bearing."
Cdr. Grenfell: "What about firing?"
gunner: "It seems to me, that fire mechanism is all right."
Cdr. Grenfell: "I hope we will not encounter any Jap on our way home. We are as game dog without teeths."
-
AmiralLaurent
- Posts: 3351
- Joined: Tue Mar 11, 2003 8:53 pm
- Location: Near Paris, France
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
Just curious, what damage took the Barb in game figures ?
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
Snow-covered top of Mt. Suribachi is hiding in the clouds over the horizon. USS Gudgeon is making its way south near Iwo Jima. Chief Engineer with his repair party has welded the cracks and water leaquing has been stopped. Of course thay cannot get submerged, the welds can not hold the pressure. But they are on the way to open ocean, where they will hide in vastes of sea. At dawn, bow of USS Gudgeon changed the heading to east along the south coast of Iwo Jima. No enemy ships or planes has been spotted since they sprinted away from the Japanese Home Islands.
There was a debate in a officers mess if it is better to radio to Pearl Harbour what happened, or to remain in radio silence. Finally an agreement was made and a short message was sent to Pearl Harbor:
DATE: 27 FEB 1942
FROM: USS GUDGEON
TO: SUBCOMCPAC
INFO: RETURN
DAMAGED BY PLANE X UNABLE TO SUBMERGE X RETURNING TO PEARL X MAINTAINING RADIO SILENCE
There was a debate in a officers mess if it is better to radio to Pearl Harbour what happened, or to remain in radio silence. Finally an agreement was made and a short message was sent to Pearl Harbor:
DATE: 27 FEB 1942
FROM: USS GUDGEON
TO: SUBCOMCPAC
INFO: RETURN
DAMAGED BY PLANE X UNABLE TO SUBMERGE X RETURNING TO PEARL X MAINTAINING RADIO SILENCE
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
1/03/1942
LtCdr. Robertson: "Morning, sir."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Morning, Paul. I am invited on a high staff meeting. I will need you there. Plaese take all we know about Japs fleet."
LtCdr. Robertson: "As you wish, sir."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Oh, did you hear about Gudgeon?"
LtCdr. Robertson: "Yes. I was in Pacific Submarine Command yesterday. They are on the way home."
Cdr. Rochefort: "And I hope I will please you with the news."
LtCdr. Robertson: "Sir, we are ears of the Pacific fleet, so we hear lot of things."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Ok. Now get prepared for the meeting. We are leaving for it at 1400."
LtCdr. Robertson: "At your order, sir."
The large conference room in Pacific command building is overcrowded by high ranking officers of all branches. There are Navy, Army, Air Force and Marines uniforms with stars and stripes everywhere. One could get through the whole building constantly saluting. In the middle of the room, there is big map table with maps. Around the Walls, there are more and more maps showing actual position of ships, convoy routes, responsibility areas, patrol coverage. At those walls without maps, there are warious charts with operational planes, ground units locations, and many more.
Strategic map 01/03/1942
LtCdr. Robertson: "Morning, sir."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Morning, Paul. I am invited on a high staff meeting. I will need you there. Plaese take all we know about Japs fleet."
LtCdr. Robertson: "As you wish, sir."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Oh, did you hear about Gudgeon?"
LtCdr. Robertson: "Yes. I was in Pacific Submarine Command yesterday. They are on the way home."
Cdr. Rochefort: "And I hope I will please you with the news."
LtCdr. Robertson: "Sir, we are ears of the Pacific fleet, so we hear lot of things."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Ok. Now get prepared for the meeting. We are leaving for it at 1400."
LtCdr. Robertson: "At your order, sir."
The large conference room in Pacific command building is overcrowded by high ranking officers of all branches. There are Navy, Army, Air Force and Marines uniforms with stars and stripes everywhere. One could get through the whole building constantly saluting. In the middle of the room, there is big map table with maps. Around the Walls, there are more and more maps showing actual position of ships, convoy routes, responsibility areas, patrol coverage. At those walls without maps, there are warious charts with operational planes, ground units locations, and many more.
Strategic map 01/03/1942
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RE: War and Remembrance by barb
01/03/1942
Adm. Nimitz: "Gentlemans. It is time to start our conference. Please sit down."
It takes a little time until commanders takes their places. Their assistents and adjutants are staying around the room, prepared to bring every information that could be needed.
Adm. Nimitz: "So. We have some themes we must discuss. At first it is the current situation."
Chief of staff Pacific Command: "We will take it part by part, command by command. At first North Pacific."
Some people brings the map of Canada, Alaska, Aleutians and Kuriles area.
RAdm. Theobald: "At North Pacific theatre, no Japanese activites were discovered from the start of War. As you can se, we are developing our bases at Anchorage, Kodiak, Dutch Harbor and Unalaska Island."
Adm. Nimitz: "Japanese captured Tarawa, Guam, Wake, Midway and Lahiana Roads. Our main strongpoints in the area are Oahu and Hawaii island together with Johnston Island, Palmyra, and Canton. Our Total strengh here is four divisions, two regiments, 300 planes."
RAdm. Bagley: "At South Pacific there were no signs of enemy activity expect some submarine spottings by our search planes. At this time we have only two New Zealand Brigades but Americal and 2nd USMC divisions are already on their way to the area. We have 300 planes total in our area for the moment, but more is on the way."
MGen. Joyce: "Southwest Pacific area is still without any combat unit. We have air units, but we are short of combat units. We are awaiting the release of 7th Australian infantry division in half of march and 32nd US division in the end of march."
Gen. Blamey: "In Australia command area, Japanese occupied Kavieng and Rabaul in December. From that time, no enemy activites has been spotted. For defence of Australia we have six divisions, twelve brigades, 300 planes. Two heavy cruisers with eight light cruisers and destroyers are operational in our area. Two more light cruisers are in our drydocks. RAAF is now 250 planes strong"
MGen. Joyce: "I know there are still some Philipines division located on Cebu and Iloilo. But they are short on supplies. They will not hold for long. Submarines under my command from Perth are trying to evacuate as much of them, as it is possible."
Adm. Nimitz: "I have spoken with British attache at Washington tomorrow morning. The Tommys decided to retreat from Burma. They are now fortyfiing the line from Chittattong, to Imphal to Ledo. Joint chief of staff has send there some bombers and fighters to help them when the Japs pop-ups there."
Chief of staff Pacific Command: "From what I have heared at Washington last week, the Chinese are holding their own, but Japanese have full air superiority in the area. It was decided to send there more fighters to subdue the air."
Adm. Nimitz: "So, this is the our situation. What about our enemy?"
Cdr. Rochefort: "From our sources we know a little about what they are planning to do. At this time their forces are committed at Java. But that is only a fragment of Japanese strenght. For a month there was very low activity on Japanese side. Only exception was the Java invasion."
Adm. Nimitz: "What about the Japanese carrier force. Have we informations where it is now?"
Cdr. Rochefort: "No sir. We have no idea. Together with SUBCOMPAC we have send some subs to the vicinity of Japanese main bases, where the Kido Butai should be. Kwajalein, Truk, Rabaul, Palaus are almost empty. There are many ships in Singapore, two battleships and four heavy cruisers were operating in the area, but the rest are mainly transports. In a few days we should know more about the Midway and Tokyo."
Adm. Nimitz: "I could bet they are sitting in the Midway."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Why do you think so, sir?"
Adm. Nimitz: "They know that before we could do something in the Central Pacific, we must recapture the Lahiana Roads. From there they could send long range patrol planes, recon planes and refuel and replenish submarines comming to and from the West coast. We cannot allow them to. If we begin invasion on Lahiana roads, we will have 3-4 days until Kido Butai is here."
Cdr. Rochefort: "But will they risk their carriers in the vicinity of our air bases?"
Adm. Nimitz: "I dont know. "
Chief of staff Pacific Command: "Sir, if I can. Actual strenght of our Pacific fleet is: three old battleships, three more in Puget Sound Naval Yard, five almost sunk at Pearl Harbor. We have four carriers, Lexington and Yorktown are in the mid of overhaul at Mare Island Navy Yard. Twelve operational heavy and nine light cruisers, eighty destroyers. Of 52 submarines, 13 are damaged or in repairs."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Japanese have six fleet carriers. There are also three light carriers and an escort carrier in the service. Ten battleships, fifteen heavy, nineteen light cruisers, 130 destroyers."
Adm. Nimitz: "We are still weak. We cannot start anything more then occasional raids until we are strong enough."
MGen. Joyce: "Do you want to give up the initiative?"
Adm. Nimitz: "It is the best we can do until we are at equal power. I dont want to run my head against the wall."
Adm. Nimitz: "Gentlemans. It is time to start our conference. Please sit down."
It takes a little time until commanders takes their places. Their assistents and adjutants are staying around the room, prepared to bring every information that could be needed.
Adm. Nimitz: "So. We have some themes we must discuss. At first it is the current situation."
Chief of staff Pacific Command: "We will take it part by part, command by command. At first North Pacific."
Some people brings the map of Canada, Alaska, Aleutians and Kuriles area.
RAdm. Theobald: "At North Pacific theatre, no Japanese activites were discovered from the start of War. As you can se, we are developing our bases at Anchorage, Kodiak, Dutch Harbor and Unalaska Island."
Adm. Nimitz: "Japanese captured Tarawa, Guam, Wake, Midway and Lahiana Roads. Our main strongpoints in the area are Oahu and Hawaii island together with Johnston Island, Palmyra, and Canton. Our Total strengh here is four divisions, two regiments, 300 planes."
RAdm. Bagley: "At South Pacific there were no signs of enemy activity expect some submarine spottings by our search planes. At this time we have only two New Zealand Brigades but Americal and 2nd USMC divisions are already on their way to the area. We have 300 planes total in our area for the moment, but more is on the way."
MGen. Joyce: "Southwest Pacific area is still without any combat unit. We have air units, but we are short of combat units. We are awaiting the release of 7th Australian infantry division in half of march and 32nd US division in the end of march."
Gen. Blamey: "In Australia command area, Japanese occupied Kavieng and Rabaul in December. From that time, no enemy activites has been spotted. For defence of Australia we have six divisions, twelve brigades, 300 planes. Two heavy cruisers with eight light cruisers and destroyers are operational in our area. Two more light cruisers are in our drydocks. RAAF is now 250 planes strong"
MGen. Joyce: "I know there are still some Philipines division located on Cebu and Iloilo. But they are short on supplies. They will not hold for long. Submarines under my command from Perth are trying to evacuate as much of them, as it is possible."
Adm. Nimitz: "I have spoken with British attache at Washington tomorrow morning. The Tommys decided to retreat from Burma. They are now fortyfiing the line from Chittattong, to Imphal to Ledo. Joint chief of staff has send there some bombers and fighters to help them when the Japs pop-ups there."
Chief of staff Pacific Command: "From what I have heared at Washington last week, the Chinese are holding their own, but Japanese have full air superiority in the area. It was decided to send there more fighters to subdue the air."
Adm. Nimitz: "So, this is the our situation. What about our enemy?"
Cdr. Rochefort: "From our sources we know a little about what they are planning to do. At this time their forces are committed at Java. But that is only a fragment of Japanese strenght. For a month there was very low activity on Japanese side. Only exception was the Java invasion."
Adm. Nimitz: "What about the Japanese carrier force. Have we informations where it is now?"
Cdr. Rochefort: "No sir. We have no idea. Together with SUBCOMPAC we have send some subs to the vicinity of Japanese main bases, where the Kido Butai should be. Kwajalein, Truk, Rabaul, Palaus are almost empty. There are many ships in Singapore, two battleships and four heavy cruisers were operating in the area, but the rest are mainly transports. In a few days we should know more about the Midway and Tokyo."
Adm. Nimitz: "I could bet they are sitting in the Midway."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Why do you think so, sir?"
Adm. Nimitz: "They know that before we could do something in the Central Pacific, we must recapture the Lahiana Roads. From there they could send long range patrol planes, recon planes and refuel and replenish submarines comming to and from the West coast. We cannot allow them to. If we begin invasion on Lahiana roads, we will have 3-4 days until Kido Butai is here."
Cdr. Rochefort: "But will they risk their carriers in the vicinity of our air bases?"
Adm. Nimitz: "I dont know. "
Chief of staff Pacific Command: "Sir, if I can. Actual strenght of our Pacific fleet is: three old battleships, three more in Puget Sound Naval Yard, five almost sunk at Pearl Harbor. We have four carriers, Lexington and Yorktown are in the mid of overhaul at Mare Island Navy Yard. Twelve operational heavy and nine light cruisers, eighty destroyers. Of 52 submarines, 13 are damaged or in repairs."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Japanese have six fleet carriers. There are also three light carriers and an escort carrier in the service. Ten battleships, fifteen heavy, nineteen light cruisers, 130 destroyers."
Adm. Nimitz: "We are still weak. We cannot start anything more then occasional raids until we are strong enough."
MGen. Joyce: "Do you want to give up the initiative?"
Adm. Nimitz: "It is the best we can do until we are at equal power. I dont want to run my head against the wall."
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
03/03/1942
extract from the letter written by "Tommy" Robertson
Dear Matsu,
I am glad that i have this time to write you a few words.
After all we have survived, my hands are trembling writing this letter.
I have written you previously about how our sub was damaged and how we spent all day on the
bottom. But I haven't write you everything that happened. It was so sickener, that I was not able to thing or write about it with clear mind. Seaman 2nd class Robert E. Bronson, torpedo operator was killed by the bomb explosion that damaged our sub. There was no time to deal with it, so he was only yanked off the way. But then, sitting on the bottom, .. He was the first dead I have ever seen. He was only 19 years old, he has a girl somewhere in San Diego. His face, strangely, was peaceful. We shroud and later burried him into the sea, some 500 miles east of Iwo Jima. Skipper was holding a speech, but I'm not able to remember what he was talking about.
Second sickener happened after our second unsuccesfull try to get surfaced. That man, chief
petty officer of the watch, with his eyes like an evil, jumped into conning tower and tryed to open the hatch.
"Let me go out, I can't handle this, just let me go!" he was screaming, completely out of mind. Six of us were needed to prevent him to open the hatch and to pacify him. Our nerves were stretched thin, but his do not withstand the pressure of situation. After few minutes he calmed down and skipper sends him to his cabin with two sailors as guards. For the rest of our way to the open seas he was in his duty like nothing happened. But we all know that once ashore he will be put somewhere else. As he was a good young officer, fulfilling all the duties , I think the navy will put him on some surface ship. To be on submarine is strictly volunteer work.
We are heading for Pearl Harbor now, but skipper told me that we will probably head for San Diego for repairs. Once there I will try to get some plane back to Pearl Harbor to see you and my brother...
extract from the letter written by "Tommy" Robertson
Dear Matsu,
I am glad that i have this time to write you a few words.
After all we have survived, my hands are trembling writing this letter.
I have written you previously about how our sub was damaged and how we spent all day on the
bottom. But I haven't write you everything that happened. It was so sickener, that I was not able to thing or write about it with clear mind. Seaman 2nd class Robert E. Bronson, torpedo operator was killed by the bomb explosion that damaged our sub. There was no time to deal with it, so he was only yanked off the way. But then, sitting on the bottom, .. He was the first dead I have ever seen. He was only 19 years old, he has a girl somewhere in San Diego. His face, strangely, was peaceful. We shroud and later burried him into the sea, some 500 miles east of Iwo Jima. Skipper was holding a speech, but I'm not able to remember what he was talking about.
Second sickener happened after our second unsuccesfull try to get surfaced. That man, chief
petty officer of the watch, with his eyes like an evil, jumped into conning tower and tryed to open the hatch.
"Let me go out, I can't handle this, just let me go!" he was screaming, completely out of mind. Six of us were needed to prevent him to open the hatch and to pacify him. Our nerves were stretched thin, but his do not withstand the pressure of situation. After few minutes he calmed down and skipper sends him to his cabin with two sailors as guards. For the rest of our way to the open seas he was in his duty like nothing happened. But we all know that once ashore he will be put somewhere else. As he was a good young officer, fulfilling all the duties , I think the navy will put him on some surface ship. To be on submarine is strictly volunteer work.
We are heading for Pearl Harbor now, but skipper told me that we will probably head for San Diego for repairs. Once there I will try to get some plane back to Pearl Harbor to see you and my brother...
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
05/03/1942
The morning of the 5th march has found four old four-stackers (USS Paul Jones, Whipple, Lawrence and John D. Edwards) still in guard of 25 fully loaded tankers of convoy FY-4 some 100 miles south-east of Tongatapu atol. Another day has passed without anything serious to be added into ship log.
At the morning, a Hudson make few rounds around the convoy and then zoomingly leaves to the south. Later that day two Catalinas made their stand over the convoy, and after few hours they leaved back to Fiji. As the sun begins to descent, four heavy smoking destroyers occupied the night positions. Lawrence was a little late, because one of the tankers sailing in the rear row was showing some light, but after warning it quickly disapear. Convoy quietly continued on bearing 2-1-0 with speed of 14 knots, four destroyers idly zig-zagging around the tankers on way to their destination.
The morning of the 5th march has found four old four-stackers (USS Paul Jones, Whipple, Lawrence and John D. Edwards) still in guard of 25 fully loaded tankers of convoy FY-4 some 100 miles south-east of Tongatapu atol. Another day has passed without anything serious to be added into ship log.
At the morning, a Hudson make few rounds around the convoy and then zoomingly leaves to the south. Later that day two Catalinas made their stand over the convoy, and after few hours they leaved back to Fiji. As the sun begins to descent, four heavy smoking destroyers occupied the night positions. Lawrence was a little late, because one of the tankers sailing in the rear row was showing some light, but after warning it quickly disapear. Convoy quietly continued on bearing 2-1-0 with speed of 14 knots, four destroyers idly zig-zagging around the tankers on way to their destination.
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
08/03/1942
Radioman quickly scaled up the bridge with a message in his hands.
Radioman: "Sir, a message. Parts are not readable."
Lt.(XO) Dermot, O.O.D: "What is it?"
Radioman handed the message to him.
DATE: 08 MAR 1942
FROM: ECHO-ZULU FOUR
TO: F...
INFO: MAY DAY
ENGINE OVERH... X LOSING HEIGHT X POS: 85,125 X MAY DAY
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "Bring that to skipper. It seems like some flyboy is in trouble."
Port forward lookout: "Sir, Whipple is signalizing."
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "Lets take a look what he is saying."
He picks up the binoculars and aimed them on a Whipple sailing at port forward.
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "JDEdwards will proceed according to radio message to position 85,125 in search of survivors. Rejoin the convoy as soon as possible. Lawrence and PJones will asume positions as in D diagram."
At this time the skipper Bren steped up on the bridge with moody face.
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "Whats going on, exec?"
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "We have to search for some guys in troubles, sir."
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "Bring me the map son."
After a while "Will" Robertson emerged with map of the sout pacific.
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "OK, we are here at position 83,125. Where is that message?"
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "Here, according to the message, the rescue call is from 85,125."
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "That is some 150 miles. We can be there in 4 hours."
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "The weather is worsening, sir."
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "Set the heading to their last position, we will do one's best."
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "Aye-aye, skipper."
After a while USS John D. Edwards turned starboard of the convoy, increased his speed with his bow wet and headed to the east. After an hour only light smoke was visible on horizon, soon fading in upcoming rain.
Radioman quickly scaled up the bridge with a message in his hands.
Radioman: "Sir, a message. Parts are not readable."
Lt.(XO) Dermot, O.O.D: "What is it?"
Radioman handed the message to him.
DATE: 08 MAR 1942
FROM: ECHO-ZULU FOUR
TO: F...
INFO: MAY DAY
ENGINE OVERH... X LOSING HEIGHT X POS: 85,125 X MAY DAY
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "Bring that to skipper. It seems like some flyboy is in trouble."
Port forward lookout: "Sir, Whipple is signalizing."
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "Lets take a look what he is saying."
He picks up the binoculars and aimed them on a Whipple sailing at port forward.
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "JDEdwards will proceed according to radio message to position 85,125 in search of survivors. Rejoin the convoy as soon as possible. Lawrence and PJones will asume positions as in D diagram."
At this time the skipper Bren steped up on the bridge with moody face.
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "Whats going on, exec?"
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "We have to search for some guys in troubles, sir."
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "Bring me the map son."
After a while "Will" Robertson emerged with map of the sout pacific.
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "OK, we are here at position 83,125. Where is that message?"
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "Here, according to the message, the rescue call is from 85,125."
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "That is some 150 miles. We can be there in 4 hours."
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "The weather is worsening, sir."
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "Set the heading to their last position, we will do one's best."
Lt.(XO) Dermot: "Aye-aye, skipper."
After a while USS John D. Edwards turned starboard of the convoy, increased his speed with his bow wet and headed to the east. After an hour only light smoke was visible on horizon, soon fading in upcoming rain.
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
09/03/1942
When they arrived on position, nothing was in sight except of some east-comming clouds on
western horizon. No signs of a plane, wreck, life-boat or flotsam.
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "Sir, maybe it was only a joke by those damned flyboys."
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "Maybe. But we will try to search it. The wind and stream may sail them few miles away. The ship is now yours Roberson. Continue by the square pattern I had drawn on the map. Let me know if anything is spotted."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "I relieve you, sir."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "I stand relieved. Attention in the bridge, Lieutenant Robertson has the Deck."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "This is Lieutenant Robertson, I have the Deck."
For another three hours they were sailing here and there by the sqare pattern in the heavy rain. Visibility was poor. Lookouts were wet as soon as they stepped on their posts. Chief Engineer Johnston managed to get some cups of hot chocolate from the warm boiler room to the bridge. With each hour passed the waves were going to be higher and higher as the wind grow strong. Suddenly starboard after lookout fingers to the sea.
Lookout: "Sir, I have seen something. Broad on strarboard beam."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "Right standard rudder. All ahead 1/3. Call a skipper."
In a minute or less, capitain Bren was at bridge.
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "What have you seen there son?"
Lookout: "It was there for half of a second or less sir. On the top of the wave."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "Haven't you seen a mermaid?"
Laugh was heared on the bridge, but soon ceased under heavy look of the skipper.
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Haw far it could be?"
Lookout: "I can't say exactly, sir."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Go back to your post, son, and try not to loose it again if spotted."
Lookout: "Yes, sir."
Few minutes there was absolute quiet on the bridge. The only sounds to hear were the wind
whistling around, stormy sea and work of engines.
Lookout: "I have spotted it again! There it is... 10 degrees on port bow. On the fourth wave."
All hands on the bridge expect lookouts searching their own sectors and helmsman behind the
rudder wheel aimed their binoculars that way. Truly, something was there, yet thay can't say what.
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Coxwain, prepare to man the boat. Robertson, manuevre as close at possible, but do not try to sail over him."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "Aye-aye, sir. Rudder amidship, all stop."
Lookout: "Sir, it is a man. But he is not moving."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Coxwain, man the boat, pick him up as soon as possible. I don't want to idle here too long in case of submarines."
The boat with coxwain and five sailors was at sea in no time. Whole operation was done in less then ten minutes and the boat was back on the deck. Sonn the destroyer was continuing the square pattern search under the hand of young Robertson in case some more airmans could be found. Meantime in the capitains quarter, the man picked up from the sea was lying on the bed and dozen of sailors were looking in through the door.
Coxwain: "He is dead, sir."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "I see. Make a note into ship log. Take him, and prepare for burial."
Coxwain: "Here are his personal belongings."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Thanks. Call me the radioman."
Coxwain: "In a minute, sir."
Radiomen soon knocked on skippers cabin.
Radiomen: "I am here sir."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Prepare coded message:"
DATE: 09 MAR 1942
FROM: USS J.D.EDWARDS
TO: SOPAC
INFO: KIA
ONE KIA PICKED UP X P/O C. Kilgore, 1ST RNZAF SQDN X WILL CONTINUE THE SEARCH UNTIL MIDDAY
In the morning a dinghy was found in the water. But without anyone in or in sight. At 1200 John D. Edwards aborted the search and headed west on 25 knots to rejoin the convoy. Pilot officer Charles Kilgore was burried in to the sea 10/03/1942 1430 Hawaii time at position 85,125. His four crewmates were marked as WIA, presumably KIA.
When they arrived on position, nothing was in sight except of some east-comming clouds on
western horizon. No signs of a plane, wreck, life-boat or flotsam.
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "Sir, maybe it was only a joke by those damned flyboys."
Cpt.L.J. Bren: "Maybe. But we will try to search it. The wind and stream may sail them few miles away. The ship is now yours Roberson. Continue by the square pattern I had drawn on the map. Let me know if anything is spotted."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "I relieve you, sir."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "I stand relieved. Attention in the bridge, Lieutenant Robertson has the Deck."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "This is Lieutenant Robertson, I have the Deck."
For another three hours they were sailing here and there by the sqare pattern in the heavy rain. Visibility was poor. Lookouts were wet as soon as they stepped on their posts. Chief Engineer Johnston managed to get some cups of hot chocolate from the warm boiler room to the bridge. With each hour passed the waves were going to be higher and higher as the wind grow strong. Suddenly starboard after lookout fingers to the sea.
Lookout: "Sir, I have seen something. Broad on strarboard beam."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "Right standard rudder. All ahead 1/3. Call a skipper."
In a minute or less, capitain Bren was at bridge.
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "What have you seen there son?"
Lookout: "It was there for half of a second or less sir. On the top of the wave."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "Haven't you seen a mermaid?"
Laugh was heared on the bridge, but soon ceased under heavy look of the skipper.
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Haw far it could be?"
Lookout: "I can't say exactly, sir."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Go back to your post, son, and try not to loose it again if spotted."
Lookout: "Yes, sir."
Few minutes there was absolute quiet on the bridge. The only sounds to hear were the wind
whistling around, stormy sea and work of engines.
Lookout: "I have spotted it again! There it is... 10 degrees on port bow. On the fourth wave."
All hands on the bridge expect lookouts searching their own sectors and helmsman behind the
rudder wheel aimed their binoculars that way. Truly, something was there, yet thay can't say what.
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Coxwain, prepare to man the boat. Robertson, manuevre as close at possible, but do not try to sail over him."
Lt.(jg) "Will" Robertson: "Aye-aye, sir. Rudder amidship, all stop."
Lookout: "Sir, it is a man. But he is not moving."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Coxwain, man the boat, pick him up as soon as possible. I don't want to idle here too long in case of submarines."
The boat with coxwain and five sailors was at sea in no time. Whole operation was done in less then ten minutes and the boat was back on the deck. Sonn the destroyer was continuing the square pattern search under the hand of young Robertson in case some more airmans could be found. Meantime in the capitains quarter, the man picked up from the sea was lying on the bed and dozen of sailors were looking in through the door.
Coxwain: "He is dead, sir."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "I see. Make a note into ship log. Take him, and prepare for burial."
Coxwain: "Here are his personal belongings."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Thanks. Call me the radioman."
Coxwain: "In a minute, sir."
Radiomen soon knocked on skippers cabin.
Radiomen: "I am here sir."
Cpt.L.J.Bren: "Prepare coded message:"
DATE: 09 MAR 1942
FROM: USS J.D.EDWARDS
TO: SOPAC
INFO: KIA
ONE KIA PICKED UP X P/O C. Kilgore, 1ST RNZAF SQDN X WILL CONTINUE THE SEARCH UNTIL MIDDAY
In the morning a dinghy was found in the water. But without anyone in or in sight. At 1200 John D. Edwards aborted the search and headed west on 25 knots to rejoin the convoy. Pilot officer Charles Kilgore was burried in to the sea 10/03/1942 1430 Hawaii time at position 85,125. His four crewmates were marked as WIA, presumably KIA.
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
12/03/1942
At Pearl Harbor another sunny day begins, as almost everyday a force of 100 bombers escorted by 70 fighters prepares to another strike against enemy troops on Lahiana Roads. Mechanics, armorers, pilots and crews are in full work. In the Hypo station a less hectic mood rules.
LtCdr. Robertson: "Evening, sir. We have gained some informations that Japs are preparing the mocking up operations in the mid Philipines."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Nothing new. This could be predicted after the fall of Luzon. Our subs are
trying to get out of there everyone they could for a week."
LtCdr. Robertson: "As i know there are some Philipinos units stationed on various islands."
Cdr.Rochefort: "They will be let there to delay the Japs. We are trying to get out as much air personal as possible. You know, we are short of skilled air mechanics everywhere, mainly on the South Pacific."
LtCdr. Robertson: "Isn't it a bit barbarian?"
Cdr. Rochefort: "We are not here to judge what is barbarian or what is not. It is the high command who has the power to make decisions."
LtCdr. Robertson: "Sorry, sir."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Don't care about. What do you know about the japanese carriers?"
LtCdr. Robertson: "Sir, submarines around Midway have reported many Vals and Kates on patrols. They havent spotted the ships, but anywhere else these planes are operating in such numbers. Kawajalein, Truk, Palau, Tokio, Pescadores, Takao, Singapore, Manila. We have submarines on patrols near, but they have seen a dozen of Jakes, Two engine naval or army bombers but no Vals and Kates."
Cdr. Rochefort: "So Nimitz was right. I wil meet him at the dinner and tell him what you have ascertained. Good work Robertson."
At Pearl Harbor another sunny day begins, as almost everyday a force of 100 bombers escorted by 70 fighters prepares to another strike against enemy troops on Lahiana Roads. Mechanics, armorers, pilots and crews are in full work. In the Hypo station a less hectic mood rules.
LtCdr. Robertson: "Evening, sir. We have gained some informations that Japs are preparing the mocking up operations in the mid Philipines."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Nothing new. This could be predicted after the fall of Luzon. Our subs are
trying to get out of there everyone they could for a week."
LtCdr. Robertson: "As i know there are some Philipinos units stationed on various islands."
Cdr.Rochefort: "They will be let there to delay the Japs. We are trying to get out as much air personal as possible. You know, we are short of skilled air mechanics everywhere, mainly on the South Pacific."
LtCdr. Robertson: "Isn't it a bit barbarian?"
Cdr. Rochefort: "We are not here to judge what is barbarian or what is not. It is the high command who has the power to make decisions."
LtCdr. Robertson: "Sorry, sir."
Cdr. Rochefort: "Don't care about. What do you know about the japanese carriers?"
LtCdr. Robertson: "Sir, submarines around Midway have reported many Vals and Kates on patrols. They havent spotted the ships, but anywhere else these planes are operating in such numbers. Kawajalein, Truk, Palau, Tokio, Pescadores, Takao, Singapore, Manila. We have submarines on patrols near, but they have seen a dozen of Jakes, Two engine naval or army bombers but no Vals and Kates."
Cdr. Rochefort: "So Nimitz was right. I wil meet him at the dinner and tell him what you have ascertained. Good work Robertson."
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
15/03/1942
Admiral Nimitz just returned from another reception for the press. Crowd of journalists were ply with questions for almost an hour. Nimitz is now safe back in his office. He puts the Navy cap off his head and puts it on the table. There are some papers to subscribe or reports to read.
The one that takes his attention was from the 4th Patrol Wing based on Lihue, Hilo and Kona. No less then five submarines were spotted south of Pearl Harbour. As no Allied submarines are in that area, most are on patrols as far as Philipines, these could be only japanese ones. But what they wanted to do here? Another Pearl Harbor raid? They are trying to ambush some convoy? No, any big convoys are on their way to Pearl Harbor. Then almost a heretical idea flashes through his mind. They are trying to supply and evacuate their troops on Lahiana Roads!
He picked up the phone and quickly ordered to telephonist:
Nimitz: "Call me 7th Air Force HQ, commanding officer MGen.W.J.Dunkelberg. He must be somewhere on Hawaii."
After a few minutes the phone rings back with Dunkelberg on the other end.
Nimitz: "Good morning general. I have a little work for your crews. I know it may sound atypical, but I need every your bomber for antisubmarine work for some days."
Dunkelberg: "Sir, but I must say that our guys are not trained in antisubmarine warfare, we even have not any depth charges. Our guys are a bit tired after a week of bombardment runs against Lahiana."
Nimitz: "I will order to give you some Depth charges from the navy storages. Our Catalinas has spotted japanese submarines trying to sneak in and out of Lahiana Roads. I think they are trying to bring in supplies and evacuate the troops. If we will not stop them, you should have nothing to bomb, general."
Dunkelberg: "They cann't evacuate 30,000 mens by the submarines."
Nimitz: "Not in one run, but if we let them the time and do not stop them, they may do it in few months."
Dunkelberg: "All-right, Admiral. I will try to do ones best. But do not expect a wonder admiral."
Nimitz: "Thank you, general. That is what i wanted to hear. Tell your crews, that there may be a group or two of surface sub-hunters in the area. I hope your guys could recoginze a submarine and a destroyer."
Dunkelberg: "I hope so. If not, you have my apologize in advance, admiral."
Admiral Nimitz just returned from another reception for the press. Crowd of journalists were ply with questions for almost an hour. Nimitz is now safe back in his office. He puts the Navy cap off his head and puts it on the table. There are some papers to subscribe or reports to read.
The one that takes his attention was from the 4th Patrol Wing based on Lihue, Hilo and Kona. No less then five submarines were spotted south of Pearl Harbour. As no Allied submarines are in that area, most are on patrols as far as Philipines, these could be only japanese ones. But what they wanted to do here? Another Pearl Harbor raid? They are trying to ambush some convoy? No, any big convoys are on their way to Pearl Harbor. Then almost a heretical idea flashes through his mind. They are trying to supply and evacuate their troops on Lahiana Roads!
He picked up the phone and quickly ordered to telephonist:
Nimitz: "Call me 7th Air Force HQ, commanding officer MGen.W.J.Dunkelberg. He must be somewhere on Hawaii."
After a few minutes the phone rings back with Dunkelberg on the other end.
Nimitz: "Good morning general. I have a little work for your crews. I know it may sound atypical, but I need every your bomber for antisubmarine work for some days."
Dunkelberg: "Sir, but I must say that our guys are not trained in antisubmarine warfare, we even have not any depth charges. Our guys are a bit tired after a week of bombardment runs against Lahiana."
Nimitz: "I will order to give you some Depth charges from the navy storages. Our Catalinas has spotted japanese submarines trying to sneak in and out of Lahiana Roads. I think they are trying to bring in supplies and evacuate the troops. If we will not stop them, you should have nothing to bomb, general."
Dunkelberg: "They cann't evacuate 30,000 mens by the submarines."
Nimitz: "Not in one run, but if we let them the time and do not stop them, they may do it in few months."
Dunkelberg: "All-right, Admiral. I will try to do ones best. But do not expect a wonder admiral."
Nimitz: "Thank you, general. That is what i wanted to hear. Tell your crews, that there may be a group or two of surface sub-hunters in the area. I hope your guys could recoginze a submarine and a destroyer."
Dunkelberg: "I hope so. If not, you have my apologize in advance, admiral."
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
18/03/1942
Tokio Rose Broadcasting:
Brave allied soldiers. Despite your brave defence, you cann't hold the power of Imperial Japan to establish an All-asian zone of co-prosperity. Brave Philipino soldiers. You are defending what your allies has left. One after another Island of central Philipines is under our control. Your comrades have been defeated and captured. Dutch soldiers defending Sumatra. Where is your Navy and air force? They are hiding in Australia or India meanwhile our troops are marching on Palembang. They fled like cowards. We have total air superiority over China, Malaya, Dutch East India and Americans has been thrown behind Hawaiian Islands. Who will save you my dear Philipine and Dutch friends?
P.S.: How many people are reading my AAR? [&:]
Tokio Rose Broadcasting:
Brave allied soldiers. Despite your brave defence, you cann't hold the power of Imperial Japan to establish an All-asian zone of co-prosperity. Brave Philipino soldiers. You are defending what your allies has left. One after another Island of central Philipines is under our control. Your comrades have been defeated and captured. Dutch soldiers defending Sumatra. Where is your Navy and air force? They are hiding in Australia or India meanwhile our troops are marching on Palembang. They fled like cowards. We have total air superiority over China, Malaya, Dutch East India and Americans has been thrown behind Hawaiian Islands. Who will save you my dear Philipine and Dutch friends?
P.S.: How many people are reading my AAR? [&:]
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
20/03/1942
Three old battleships Mississippi, New Mexico and Colorado together with their destroyer screen left the escorted convoy behind in the evening. Their bows are heading toward enemy held Lahiana Roads. At 0332 the ships in a line formation with Hamman leading, Mississippi, Mustin, New Mexico, Russel, Colorado, Walke and O'Brien begins their fire. As the flashes were enlighthening the sea, the Japanese soldiers on the Islands were awaken by the shells exploding everywhere. In a few minutes the US ships fired 142 14 inches, 87 16 inches, and 567 5 inches against the airfield, port and known japanese positions. In the morning next day the ships are "peacefully" anchored in Pearl Harbor.
Three old battleships Mississippi, New Mexico and Colorado together with their destroyer screen left the escorted convoy behind in the evening. Their bows are heading toward enemy held Lahiana Roads. At 0332 the ships in a line formation with Hamman leading, Mississippi, Mustin, New Mexico, Russel, Colorado, Walke and O'Brien begins their fire. As the flashes were enlighthening the sea, the Japanese soldiers on the Islands were awaken by the shells exploding everywhere. In a few minutes the US ships fired 142 14 inches, 87 16 inches, and 567 5 inches against the airfield, port and known japanese positions. In the morning next day the ships are "peacefully" anchored in Pearl Harbor.
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
21/03/1942
Lookout: "Sir, a plane. No, wait, the second one."
Cdr. Grenfell: "What the hell?"
Lookout: "Sir, third plane."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Maybe some kind of an air force parade."
Cdr. Grenfell: "I would like to know what all this means."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Maybe I know. Do you remember that strange message from SUBCOMCPAC?"
Cdr. Grenfell: "We have a really big flag up on the scope as ordered in the message. Hmm, that planes looks like a B-17."
"Tommy" Robertson: "It looks all the air force is chasing a dipper."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Yep, that bring a lot of a light into. Those guys can hardly recognize a Minesweeper and Battleship. I hope our flag is large enough."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Look there. One is making a run of us!"
Cdr. Grenfell: "Dumb ass! Give me the signal lamp!"
As he begins to send a message, rest of the lookouts on the bridge begins to swing the hands. Heavy and slow 4 engine bomber flying low passed over the Gudgeon with horrible roaring. Then it slowly begins to climb and circle around the sub. After the skipper sended the message twice the bomber dangled with wings.
"Tommy" Robertson: "I have seen myself as a fish-food."
Cdr. Grenfell: "I am lucky that boy know the morse-alphabet."
"Tommy" Robertson: "I will try to get some informations off my dad once ashore."
Cdr. grenfell: "Ok, lets prapare the ship for anchoring. We will be in the entrance to Pearl Harbor in few hours."
Lookout: "Sir, a plane. No, wait, the second one."
Cdr. Grenfell: "What the hell?"
Lookout: "Sir, third plane."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Maybe some kind of an air force parade."
Cdr. Grenfell: "I would like to know what all this means."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Maybe I know. Do you remember that strange message from SUBCOMCPAC?"
Cdr. Grenfell: "We have a really big flag up on the scope as ordered in the message. Hmm, that planes looks like a B-17."
"Tommy" Robertson: "It looks all the air force is chasing a dipper."
Cdr. Grenfell: "Yep, that bring a lot of a light into. Those guys can hardly recognize a Minesweeper and Battleship. I hope our flag is large enough."
"Tommy" Robertson: "Look there. One is making a run of us!"
Cdr. Grenfell: "Dumb ass! Give me the signal lamp!"
As he begins to send a message, rest of the lookouts on the bridge begins to swing the hands. Heavy and slow 4 engine bomber flying low passed over the Gudgeon with horrible roaring. Then it slowly begins to climb and circle around the sub. After the skipper sended the message twice the bomber dangled with wings.
"Tommy" Robertson: "I have seen myself as a fish-food."
Cdr. Grenfell: "I am lucky that boy know the morse-alphabet."
"Tommy" Robertson: "I will try to get some informations off my dad once ashore."
Cdr. grenfell: "Ok, lets prapare the ship for anchoring. We will be in the entrance to Pearl Harbor in few hours."
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
24/03/1942
This day Captain Alvaro J. Hunter becomes the highest scoring allied pilot in Pacific theatre of operations with 14 confirmed kills. 24.03.1942 he shot down 8 enemy planes and was forced to bail out. For this achievements he was awarded with Medal of Honor:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to
Captain Alvaro James Hunter
United States Army Air Force
for service as set forth in the following CITATION:
"For conspicious gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Leader of section in 20th Fighter Squadron, during aerial operations against enemy Japanese forces over Kweilin, China, 24 march 1942. Taking off with his squadron and 9 fighters from AVG to intercept incoming enemy raid at 9,000 feet, consisting of 40 fighters accompanying 20 bombers. Cpt. Hunter instantly engaged the hostile planes downing 6 fighters from total 21 claimed air-to-air victories. Later the same day he led another section together with other fighters of 20FS and AVG totaling 15 agains another enemy raid. Althought outnumbered 10 to 1 they pushed the attack. After Cpt. Hunter had shot down two enemy fighters he spotted a P-40E in troubles with 6 enemy fighters on tail. He quickly positioned himself between that P-40 and enemy to prevent them to fire. His own plane was badly hit but he remained in combat until he was forced to bail out. Capitain Hunter's extraordinary gallntry and personal valor under extremely perilous combat conditions reflect the highest credit upon Cpt. Alvaro James Hunter."
This day Captain Alvaro J. Hunter becomes the highest scoring allied pilot in Pacific theatre of operations with 14 confirmed kills. 24.03.1942 he shot down 8 enemy planes and was forced to bail out. For this achievements he was awarded with Medal of Honor:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR to
Captain Alvaro James Hunter
United States Army Air Force
for service as set forth in the following CITATION:
"For conspicious gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Leader of section in 20th Fighter Squadron, during aerial operations against enemy Japanese forces over Kweilin, China, 24 march 1942. Taking off with his squadron and 9 fighters from AVG to intercept incoming enemy raid at 9,000 feet, consisting of 40 fighters accompanying 20 bombers. Cpt. Hunter instantly engaged the hostile planes downing 6 fighters from total 21 claimed air-to-air victories. Later the same day he led another section together with other fighters of 20FS and AVG totaling 15 agains another enemy raid. Althought outnumbered 10 to 1 they pushed the attack. After Cpt. Hunter had shot down two enemy fighters he spotted a P-40E in troubles with 6 enemy fighters on tail. He quickly positioned himself between that P-40 and enemy to prevent them to fire. His own plane was badly hit but he remained in combat until he was forced to bail out. Capitain Hunter's extraordinary gallntry and personal valor under extremely perilous combat conditions reflect the highest credit upon Cpt. Alvaro James Hunter."
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
27/03/1942
Just two days before, after short rainfall, two ships emerged on the western horizon. HMAS Vendetta and USS Bittern joined convoy FS-4 at 17:23 and bring some new orders. John D. Edwards together with HMAS Vendetta will escort 8 tankers to Brisbane. Other parts will unload their cargo in Sydney or Melbourne.
Now, moored along pier at Brisbane harbor the ship and his crew is resting after another thousand miles long journey. But there is no time to idle to those left aboard. Fresh provisions must be loaded, fuel and oil tanks filled, decks cleared from rust. Small party of gunners works hard around the forward gun. Two thirds of the crew went ashore for two days. Of course there will be some violations and skirmishes in the streets and bars, but these man deserve some liberty after weeks on this swinging can.
Just two days before, after short rainfall, two ships emerged on the western horizon. HMAS Vendetta and USS Bittern joined convoy FS-4 at 17:23 and bring some new orders. John D. Edwards together with HMAS Vendetta will escort 8 tankers to Brisbane. Other parts will unload their cargo in Sydney or Melbourne.
Now, moored along pier at Brisbane harbor the ship and his crew is resting after another thousand miles long journey. But there is no time to idle to those left aboard. Fresh provisions must be loaded, fuel and oil tanks filled, decks cleared from rust. Small party of gunners works hard around the forward gun. Two thirds of the crew went ashore for two days. Of course there will be some violations and skirmishes in the streets and bars, but these man deserve some liberty after weeks on this swinging can.
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
I'm reading it barb, not getting many comments on mine either
good stuff mate
good stuff mate
1966 was a great year for English Football...Eric was born
RE: War and Remembrance by barb
02/04/1942
From list of Matsuoko Kuritsu:
Dear Tommy,
I'm worried about you. Are you all right? I know you are on mission now, but this long days without you are hard to live. Your father told me your submarine was damaged and now it is heading home.
I have some news that could please you. At first, we were released from the internment camp. My father returned to his work in docks and currently is on shift in drydock where Pennsylvania is lying. He said once: "I will repair that ship alone and with empty hands if necessary, until the war ends!"
My brother Takeo tried to volunteer the army, but he was not allowed to. Instead he was beaten to blood behind the army office. He than talked with some guys from 299th Infantry regiment of the Hawai’i National Guard. Washington wants to remove of all soldiers of Japanese ancestry from active service, but they petitioned General Emmons to allow them to assist in the war effort. I know our boys will serve well to this country if allowed.
My cousin Harumi give birth to healthy, strong boy this week ...
PS: I am almost a month late with my AAR, and few big thinks happened i must think and write about...
From list of Matsuoko Kuritsu:
Dear Tommy,
I'm worried about you. Are you all right? I know you are on mission now, but this long days without you are hard to live. Your father told me your submarine was damaged and now it is heading home.
I have some news that could please you. At first, we were released from the internment camp. My father returned to his work in docks and currently is on shift in drydock where Pennsylvania is lying. He said once: "I will repair that ship alone and with empty hands if necessary, until the war ends!"
My brother Takeo tried to volunteer the army, but he was not allowed to. Instead he was beaten to blood behind the army office. He than talked with some guys from 299th Infantry regiment of the Hawai’i National Guard. Washington wants to remove of all soldiers of Japanese ancestry from active service, but they petitioned General Emmons to allow them to assist in the war effort. I know our boys will serve well to this country if allowed.
My cousin Harumi give birth to healthy, strong boy this week ...
PS: I am almost a month late with my AAR, and few big thinks happened i must think and write about...