Commencing: November 1, 1953, Enroute San Francisco, CA to Balboa, Canal Zone
and ending:
Sunday 1 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 and #2 from San Francisco, CA, enroute to Balboa, Canal Zone, Panama in accordance with sailing orders contained in folder #123 held by Naval Control of Shipping, Treasure Island, San Francisco, CA. Base course is 111ºt, 111ºpgc; base speed 14.2 knots, 194 rpm.
4 to 8
Steaming as before.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 1031 c/c to 121ºt, 121ºpgc. 1035 c/c to 111ºt, 111ºpgc.
12 to 16
Steaming as before.
16 to 18
Steaming as before.
18 to 20
Steaming as before.
20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2000 c/c to 106ºt, 106ºpgc.
Monday 2 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 and #2 from San Francisco, CA, enroute to Balboa Canal Zone, Panama in accordance with sailing orders contained in folder #123 held by Naval Control of Shipping, Treasure Island, San Francisco, CA. Base course is 106ºt, 106ºpgc; base speed 14.2 knots, 194 rpm. 0100 set ship's clocks ahead one hour to conform with plus 5 zone (Roger) time.
4 to 8
Steaming as before.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1445 Sighted Point Burcia bearing 054ºt, distance 31.5 miles. 1448 c/c to 110ºt, 110ºpgc. 1510 Made weekly inspection of magazine and clipping room sprinkler systems. Condition: satisfactory with the exception of A-305-M. Sprinkler line leaking at outlet valve. 1525 c/c to 11ºt, 111ºpgc.
16 to 18
Steaming as before.
18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1445 Sighted Isla Montoasa bearing 074.5ºt, distance 17.5 miles. 1845 Passed Isla Montoasa abeam to port, distance 10 miles. 1907 Sighted Isla Jicarita Light bearing 077ºt, distance 23.6 miles.
20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2038 Passed Isla Jicarita Light bearing abeam to port, distance 6 miles. 2041 c/c to 090ºt, 090ºpgc. 2115 c/s to 14.1 knots 192 rpm. 2000 c/c to 106ºt, 106ºpgc.
Tuesday Nov 3, 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 and #2 from San Francisco, CA, enroute to Balboa Canal Zone, Panama in accordance with sailing orders contained in folder #123 held by Naval Control of Shipping, Treasure Island, San Francisco, CA. Base course is 090ºt, 090ºpgc; base speed 14.1 knots, 192 rpm. 0025 c/c to 086ºt, 086ºpgc. 0028 Sighted Morro Puercos Light bearing 067ºt, distance 27 miles. 0158 c/c to 067ºt, 067ºpgc. 0159 Passed Morro Puercos Light abeam to port, distance 8 miles. 0200 c/s to 14 knots, 190 rpm. 0205 Sighted Frailes del Sur light bearing 050ºt, distance 22.5 miles. 0226 Sighted Cape Mala Light bearing 045ºt, distance 32 miles. 0300 passed Frailes del Sur Light abeam to port distance 5.25 miles.
4 to 8
Steaming as before. 0406 Passed Cape Mala Light abeam to port distance 10 miles.
0507 c/c to 010ºt, 010ºpgc.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 1000 c/s to 180 rpm, 13.5 knots. 1015 PAssed Isla Bona abeam to port distance 4.5 miles. 1123 c/c to 317ºt, 317ºpgc. 1125 c/s to 13 knots, 173 rpm. 1134 set the special sea detail; passed sea buoy abeam to starboard, distance 300 yards. 1134/ c/s to 12 knots, 156 rpm. 1135 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 1138 c/s to 4 knots 56 rpm. 1141 c/c to 327ºt, 327ºpgc.; entered Panama Canal Channel. 1145 Pilot Longmour came aboard, and assumed the conn. 1151 commenced maneuvering on various courses and various speeds to conform with the Panama Canal Channel. 1156 Passed #4 buoy abeam to starboard , distance 100m yards. 1158 Passed Flamenco Island abeam to starboard, distance 1800 yards. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1206 Commenced degaussing run. 1207 Completed degaussing run. 1210 Passed Buoy #14C abeam to starboard, distance 50 yards. 1216 Passed Fartan Light abeam to port distance 1200 yards. 1217 Passed buoy #18 abeam to starboard, distance 50 yards. 1221 Tug Gargania secured to port bow. 1222 Tug Arrijan secured to port quarter. 1223 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds with aid of tugs to moor to pier. 1232 Moored starboard side to pier #2, Naval Base, Rodman Canal Zone with 4 manila and 2 wire lines . Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving the following services from the pier: fresh water and telephone service. SOPA is Commandant, 15th Naval District, District Headquarters, Balboa, Canal Zone. 1244 Tugs Arrijan and Gargania cast off. 1246 secured the special sea detail and set the in port watch. 1248 Died fires under #2 boiler. 1255 Pilot Longmour left the ship. 1400 Commenced loading cargo.
16 to 18
Moored as before. 1523 Lighted fires under #2 boiler. 1532 Secured fires under #1 boiler. Boiler #2 in use for auxiliary purposes.
18 to 20
Moored as before
(missing off page)
20 to 24
Moored as before.
Wednesday, November 4 1953
0 to 4Moored starboard side to pier #2, Naval Base, Rodman Canal Zone with 4 manila and 2 wire lines . Boiler #2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving the following services from the pier: fresh water and telephone service. SOPA is Commandant, 15th Naval District.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0825 Commenced taking on fuel. Draft forward: 16'0"; aft: 16'8". 1105 secured from taking on fuel; having received 4023 barrels of Navy Special Fuel Oil at 60ºF. Draft Forward: 16'11"; aft: 17'8"; mean: 17'3".
12 to 16
Moored as before. 1330 Set special Seat Detail and made preparations for getting under way. 1348 Tug Anigan secured to port bow. 1353 Tug Gorgania secured to port quarter. 1359 Pilots Feitag and Firts came aboard. 1342 Underway from pier#2 US Naval Base, Rodman Canal Zone proceeding to Norfolk, VA, in accordance with Commander Amphibious Force, US Atlantic Fleet movement order 72-53. Pilot First at the conn, Captain, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Commneced backing at 1/3 speed with aid of tugs to enter Panama Canal. 1434 Tugs Anigan and Gorgania cast off. 1438 Entered Panama Canal Channel and base course 338ºt, 338ºpgc; base speed 12 knots, 156 rpm. 1442 Passed buoy # 26 abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. 1455 Commenced maneuvering on variaous cours and at various speeds proceeding to enter Mirafores Locks. 1510 Gates opened to #1 lock. 1515 Lines secured to 4 mules forward, 2 mules aft. 1520 Commenced being towed into #1 lock. 1523 Gates closed to #1 lock. 1524 Commenced being held into position in #1 lock bu 4 mules forward and 2 mules aft. 1525 Commenced pumping water into #1 lock. 1540 Ceased pumping water into #1 lock. 1541 Gates opened to #2 lock. 1543 Commenced being towed into #2 lock by 4 mules forward and 2 mules aft. 1544 Entered #2 lock. 1545 Gates closed to #2 lock. 1546 commenced being held in posiution by 4 mules forward and 2 mules aft. 1550 Commenced pumping water into #2 lock. 1556 ceased pumping water into #2 lock.
16 to 18
Being held in #2 lock of Miraflores locks as before by lines secured to 4 mules forward and 2 mules aft. 1601 Gates opened to #2 lock. Commenced Maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to pass out of Miraflores Locks. 1605 Cast off all lines from mules. 1606 Commenced mauevering on various courses and at various speeds approaching Pedro Miguel Locks having entered Miraflores Lake. 1620 Gates opened to Pedro Miguel Locks. 1622 Lines secured to 3 mules on port side. 1625 Lines secured to 3 mules on starboard side. 1626 Commenced being towed into Pedro Miguel Locks by 4 mules forward and two mules aft. 1628 Entered Pedro Miguel Locks. 1631 Gates closed on Pedro Miguel Locks. 1632 Commeneced pumping water into lock. 1643 Ceased pumping water into lock. 1648 Gates opened to Pedro Miguel Locks. 1649 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds with aid of mules to pass out of lock. 1655 Cast off all lines from mules. Passed out of Pedro Miguel Locks and enetered into Panama Canal. Set base course of 298ºt, 298ºpgc; speed 12 knots, 156 rpm (Rest missing from log copy furnished.)
18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1810 Passed Gamboa Signal Station abeam to starboard, distance 400 yards. 1830 Entered Gatun Lake. 1940 Passed Las Brusas Island abeam to starboard, distance 800 yards.
20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2018 Passed Tiger Island abeam to starboard, distance 800 yards. 2038 Commenced manuevering on various courses and at various speeds approaching Gatun Locks. 2050 Moored to outer lock wall of Gatun Locks with 4 manila lines while awaiting clearance of locks by ship ahead prior to out passing trthu the locks. 2059 secured the special sea detail and set the regular inport watch. 2135 Set the special sea detail and mad all preparations for getting under way. 2140 Gates opened to #1 lock. 2143 Lines secured to 3 mules on starboard side and one mule on port side. 2145 Lines secured to 3 mules on port side. Commenced being towed into #1 lock of Gatun Locks by 4 mules forward and two mules aft. 2151 Gates closed on #1 lock. 2152 Commenced being held in position in #1 lock by 4 mules forward and two mules aft. 2155 Commenced pumping water out of #1 lock. 2159 Ceased pumping water out of #1 lock. 2200 Gate opened to #2 lock. 2201 Commenced being towed into #2 lock of Gatun Locks by 4 mules forward and two mules aft. 2203 Entered #2 Lock. 2205 Gates closed to #2 lock. 2208 Commenced being held in place in #2 lock by 4 mules forward and 2 mules aft. 2210 Commenced pumping water out of #2 lock. 2223 Ceased pumping water out of #2 lock. 2225 Gate opened to #3 lock. 2231 Entered #3 lock. 2232 Commenced being held in place in #2 lock by 4 mules forward and 2 mules aft. 2233 Commenced pumping water out of #3 lock. 2235 Ceased pumping water out of #3 lock. 2236 Gate opened to #3 lock. 2238 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds with aid of mules to pass out of Gatun L:ocks into Canal Channel. 2242 Cast off all lines from mules. 2244 Passed out of Gatun Locks and entered Panama Canal Channel. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to conform with Channel. 2308 Passed Christobal Mole abeam to starboard, distance 1500 yards. 2309 Commenced degausing run. 2311 Completed deagusiing run. 2315 Pilots left the ship. 2329 Passed thru harbour breakwater. 2332 Secured the special sea detail and set the regular steaming watch 2333 Steering 028ºt, 028ºpgc; base speed 12 knots, 156 rpm. 2316 secured #2 main fuel oil service pump for repairs.
Thursday 5 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 & #2 from Cristobal Panama Canal Zone to Norfolk, VA in accordance with Commander Amphibious Force, U S Atlatic Fleet movement order #72-53. Base course is 028ºt, 028ºpgc; base speed 12 knots, 156 rpm. Number 2 fuel oil service pump presently out of commission. 0210 Passed Isla Grande Light abeam to starboard , distance 13 miles. 0219 Commenced working up to 14 knots, 190 rpm. Fuel oil service pump reported back in operation. 0234 Main control reports making 14 knots, 190 rpm.
4 to 8
Steaming as before.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to16
Steaming as before. 1508 s/e ahead standard. 1518 s/e ahead 2/3. 1519 s/e engine stopped; in order to replace cotter pin on starboard engine. 1521 s/e ahead 2/3. 1523 s/e ahead standard. 1525 s/e ahead to full and rpm's increased to 190 rpm at slow rate.
16 to 18
Steaming as before.
18 to 20
Steaming as before.
20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2000 c/c to 030ºt, 030ºpgc.
Friday, 6 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 & #2 from Cristobal Panama Canal Zone to Norfolk, VA in accordance with Commander Amphibious Force, U S Atlantic Fleet movement order #72-53. Base course is 030ºt, 030ºpgc; base speed 14 knots, 190 rpm.
4 to 8
Steaming as before. 0540 c/c to 035ºt, 035ºpgc. 0555 Resumed base course, 030ºt, 030ºpgc.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1508 s/e ahead standard. 1518 s/e ahead 2/3. 1519 s/e engine stopped; in order to replace cotter pin on starboard engine. 1521 s/e ahead 2/3. 1523 s/e ahead standard. 1525 s/e ahead to full and rpm's increased to 190 rpm at slow rate.
16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1708 Sighted Navassa Island bearing 026ºt distance 26.2 miles. 1752 c/c to 040ºt, 040ºpgc.
18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1845 Passed Navassa Island abeam to port, distance 5 miles. 1900 c/c to 026ºt, 026ºpgc.
20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2017 Sighted Cape Dame Marie Light bearing 100ºt, distance 20 miles. 2033 Passed Cape Dame Marie light abeam to starboard, distance 20 miles.
Saturday, 7 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 & #2 from Cristobal Panama Canal Zone to Norfolk, VA in accordance with Commander Amphibious Force, U S Atlantic Fleet movement order #72-53. Base course is 030ºt, 030ºpgc; base speed 14 knots, 190 rpm. 0050 Sighted Point Caleta Light bearing 342.5ºt, distance 18.3 miles. 0124 c/c to 024ºt, 024ºpgc. 0143 Sighted Cape Maysi Light bearing 352ºt, distance 18.5 miles. 0201 Passed Point Caleta Light abeam to port distance 14.2 miles. 0237 c/c to 343ºt, 343ºpgc. 0311 Passed Cape Maysi Light abeam to port distance 6.9 miles.
4 to 8
Steaming as before. 0613 c/c to 337ºt, 337ºpgc.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0900 Commenced Captain's Upper Decks and Messing and Berthing Inspection. 0946 c/c to 345ºt, 345ºpgc. 1029 c/c to 000ºt, 000ºpgc. 1033 Secured from Captain's Upper Decks and Berthing and Messing Inspection. 1051 c/ to 009ºt, 009ºpgc.
12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1215 Sighted Fortune Island bearing 052.4ºt, distance 17.5 miles. 1305 s/e ahead standard, 12 knots, 156 rpm, p/e stopped; in order to repair rpm counter on port engine. 1312 Commenced working up to 14 knots, 190 rpm on both engines. Repairs to port engine delayed due to sheared pin in drive shaft. 1317 Passed Fortune Island abeam to starboard, distance 10.5 miles. 1320 Sighted Bird Rock bearing 045ºt, distance 17 miles. 1322 Main control reported making 14 knots, 190 rpm. 1323 Sighted Long Island bearing 313ºt, distance 20 miles. 1336 c/c to 012ºt, 012ºpgc. 1408 Passed Bird Rock abeam to starboard, distance 9 miles. 1456 c/c to 013ºt, 013ºpgc. 1559 c/s to a/e ahead standard, 12 knots, 156 rpm.
16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1708 Sighted Navassa Island bearing 026ºt distance 26.2 miles. 1752 c/c to 040ºt, 040ºpgc.
18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1824 c/c to 016ºt, 016ºpgc, to avoid a ship. 1837 c/c to base course; 013ºt, 013ºpgc. 1903 c/c to 356ºt, 356ºpgc. 1931 Passed SAn Salvadore Light, abeam to port, distance 10.3 miles.
20 to 24
Steaming as before.
Sunday 8 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 & #2 from Cristobal Panama Canal Zone to Norfolk, VA in accordance with Commander Amphibious Force, U S Atlantic Fleet movement order #72-53. Base course is 356ºt, 356ºpgc; base speed 14 knots, 190 rpm.
4 to 8
Steaming as before. 0700 c/s to 195 rpm, began preparations for full power run. 0710 c/s to 195 rpm. 0720 c/s to 201 rpm. 0730 c/s to 203 rpm. 0740 c/s to 205 rpm. 0740 commenced shifting, cleaning and checking burners.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0900 commenced full power run.
12 to 16
Steaming as before 1232 Shifted steering control to after steering. 1237 Shifted steering control back to pilot house. 1300 Completed full power run. 1347 c/s to 200 rpm, 14.5 knots. 1400 c/c to 340ºt, 340ºpgc. 1407 c/c to 356ºt, 356ºpgc. 1410 c/s to 190 rpm, 14 knots.
16 to 20
Steaming as before.
20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2000 c/s to 13.5 knots, 180 rpm. 2307 c/c to 358ºt, 358ºpgc. to avoid shipping. 2315 resumed base course 356ºt, 356ºpgc.
Monday 9 Nov 1953
0 to 4 Steaming independently under boilers #1 & #2 from Cristobal Panama Canal Zone to Norfolk, VA in accordance with Commander Amphibious Force, U S Atlantic Fleet movement order #72-53. Base course is 356ºt, 356ºpgc; base speed 13.4 knots, 180 rpm. 0155 Main control reports lost of lube oil pressure on #2 engine. p/e stopped. 0205 Lube oil pressure restored back to normal operations. a/e ahead standard 12 knots, 156 rpm. 0220 s/e ahead full, 13.4 knots, 180 rpm. 0223 p/e ahead full, 13.4 knots, 180 rpm.4 to 8
Steaming as before.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0914c/s to 13 knots, 173 rpm. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to16
Steaming as before 1200 c/c to 358ºt, 358ºpgc. 1333 SU radar reported out of operation. 1406 SU Radar reported back in operation. 1501 Exercised crew at fire quarters. Frame 41, 02 deck W.R.S.R 0202, A-0202-L, Lt Gunkel's stateroom. 1506 Fire reported as Class A fire. 1512 Fire reported under control. 1513 fire reported out. 1515 Secured from fire quarters and fire drill. 1523 Exercised crew at Fire and rescue drill. 1532 Secured from fire and rescue quarters. 1533 Secured from fire and rescue drill.
16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1624 c/c to 020ºt, 020 ºpgc. 1724 c/c to 030ºt, 030 ºpgc.
18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1820 c/c to 020ºt, 020 ºpgc. 1835 c/c to 000ºt, 000 ºpgc. 1845 c/s to 13.4, 180rpm.
20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2029 c/s to p/e ahead 12 knots, 156 rpm, due to loss of feed water pressure. 2031 Feed water pressure resumed. 2037 Sighted buoy TB bearing 314ºt, distance 9 miles. 2050 resumed speed of 13.4 knots, 180 rom. 2053 c/c to 356ºt, 356ºpgc. 2110 Passed buoy TB abeam to port distance 5 miles. 2247 c/s to a/e ahead standard, 12 knots, 156 rpm; due to casualty of water in the fuel oil. 2300 a/e ahead full 13.4 knots, 180 rpm; fuel oil casualty restored.
Monday 10 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 & #2 from Cristobal Panama Canal Zone to Norfolk, VA in accordance with Commander Amphibious Force, U S Atlatic Fleet movement order #72-53. Base course is 356ºt, 356ºpgc; base speed 13.4 knots, 180 rpm. 0040 c/c to 297ºt, 297ºpgc; passed radar reflector buoy abeam to port, distance 5 miles. 0310 Sighted Chesapeake Light Ship bearing 330ºt, distance 38000yard. 0322 c/c to 306ºt, 306ºpgc. 0330 Sighted Cape Henry Lighthouse, bearing 300t, distance 20 miles. 0350 Sighted Cape Charles Light, bearing 344ºt, distance 22 miles.
4 to 8
Steaming as before. 0404 c/c to 308ºt, 308ºpgc. 0418 Sighted Buoy # 2CB bearing 296ºt. 0422 Passed buoy #2 CB abeam to port, distance 100 yards. 0440 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to enter Thimble Shoals Channel. 0450 Entered Inland waters. 0513 Passed Cape Henry Light abeam to port, distance 1.2 miles. 0523 Passed between entrance buoys #1 and #2 of Thimble Shoals channel and commenced maeuvering on various course and at various speeds to conform with the channel. 0533 Passed buoy # 4 abeam to port, distance 100 yards. 0541 Passed buoy #6 abeam to port, distance 100 yards. 0552 Passed buoy #8 abeam to port, distance 100 yards. 0607 set the special sea detail. 0614 Passed Thimble Shoals Light abeam to starboard, distance 1000 yards. 0628 Passed Point Comfort Light abeam to starboard, distance 8000 yards. 0630 Passed Fort Wool beam to port, distance 700 yards, commenced maneuvering on various course and at various speeds proceeding to anchor. 0707 Anchored in South How, berth #23, in 4 fathoms of water, hard mud bottom, with 35 fathoms of chanin to the port anchor. Anchored on the following tru bearings: Middle Ground Light 275ºt; Sewel Point Tank 061ºt; Grain Elevator 111ºt. 0710 a/e stopped. 0713 Secured the special sea detail, and set the regular in port watch.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1330 Lighted fires under #2 boiler. 1426 Tested main engines; test satisfactory. 1523 Set the special sea detail and made all preparations for getting underway. 1534 Underway from berth #23, Hamprton Roads, VA., in accordance with verbal orders from the Commander, Naval BAse, Norfolk, VA. Captain, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Commenced maneuvering a\on various courses and at various speeds proceeding to the pier.
16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1606 Pilot George came aboard and assumed the conn. 1608 YTB 391 secured to the starboard bow. 1618 YTB 333 secured to starboard quarter. 1629 Moored port side to Pier# 4, berth 46, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Boiler #1 is in use for auxilliary purposes. Receiveing fresh water from pier. SOPA is Commander Amphibious Force, US Atlantic Fleet, in USS ADIRONDACK (AGC-15). 1630 Tugs YTB 333 and 391 cast off. 1636 secured the special sea detail and set the regular inport watch. 1640 Pilot George left the ship.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before. 2225 Ceased receiving fresh water from thepier having taken on 40800 gallons.
Wednesday 11 Nov 1953
0 to 4Moored as before. Moored port side to Pier# 4, berth 46, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Boiler #1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving fresh water and telephone services from the pier. Ships present: various units of the US Atlantic Fleet. SOPA is ComSecFlt., US Naval Air Station, Norfolk, VA.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0800 Mustered Crew on stations. Absentees: None.
12 to 16
Moored as before.
16 to 18
Moored as before.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
Thursday 12 Nov 1953
0 to 4Moored port side to Pier# 4, berth 46, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Boiler #1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving fresh water and telephone services from the pier. SOPA is ComSecFlt., in CincLantFlt Compound.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: Sturdivant, LG BM2 USN. 0830 An inspection party from the USS LATIMER (APA-152) came aboard to conduct an annual administration inspection. 0930 Commenced loading cargo. 1130 The inspection party left the ship. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Moored as before. 1308 Lighted fires under boiler #2 in making preparation for shifting berths up pier #4 to berth #44. 1438 Singled up all lines. 1440 Commenced maneuvering at various speeds, moving lines up the pier in order to moor port side to berth #44. 1500 a/e stopped, secured all lines. Moored port side to Pier# 4, berth 44, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Boiler #2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving fresh water and telephone services from the pier. SOPA is ComSecFlt., in CincLantFlt Compound. 1530 Boiler #1 secured to investigate and repair leaking tubes.
16 to 18
Moored as before.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
Friday 13 Nov 1953
0 to 4Moored port side to Pier 4, berth 46, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Receiving fresh water and telephone services from the pier. SOPA is ComSecFlt., US Naval Air Station, Norfolk, VA. Boiler #2 is in use for auxiliary purposes.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: Sturdivant, LG BM2 USN. 0914 Commenced taking on fuel. Draft forward 14'6" Aft 17' 3"; mean 15'10.5" 1050 Completed off-loading ship; having off loaded 9 automobiles and 30.2 tons of household goods.
12 to 16
Moored as before. 1250 Secured from taking on fuel; having received 129, 948 gallons of Bunker C fuel oil at 65ºf. Draft forward: 15'6"; Aft 16'9"; mean: 16'1.5"
16 to 18
Moored as before.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
(Editor's Note: Berth number should have been Berth #44, the ship having been moved the afternoon before!)
Saturday 14 Nov 195
3 0 to 4Moored port side to Pier 4, berth #44, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Boiler #2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving fresh water and telephone services from the pier. SOPA is ComSecFlt., in CincLantFlt Compound. Ships present: various units of the U. S. Atlantic Fleet.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0810 Mustered crew at divisional parade for personnel inspection by Commander, Transport Divisions TWENTY-FOUR. . Absentees: Sturdivant, LG BM2 USN. 0840 An inspection party from the USS LATIMER (APA-152) and Commander Transport Division TWENTY-FOUR, Captain R. H. Speck, senior member, came aboard to conduct an administration and personnel inspection of this vessel; hauled down the commission pennant and hosted broad command pennant. 0845 Commenced personnel inspection. 0920 Completed personnel inspection. 0921 Commenced inspection of topside, messing and berthing spaces. 1040 Completed inspection of topside , messing and berthing spaces. 1045 Commenced critique of administrative inspection. 1145 completed critique.
12 to 16
Moored as before. 1205 Commander Transport Division TWENTY-FOUR and inspection party from the USS LATIMER (APA-152) left the ship; hauled down the broad command pennant and hoisted the commission pennant.
16 to 18
Moored as before.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
Sunday 15 Nov 1953
0 to 4Moored port side to Pier 4, berth #46, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Receiving fresh water and telephone services from the pier. SOPA is ComSecFlt., U. S. Naval Air Station, Norfolk, VA. Boiler #2 is in use for auxiliary purposes.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: Sturdivant, LG BM2 USN. 0840. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Moored as before.
16 to 18
Moored as before.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
(Editor's Note: Berth number should have been Berth #44, the ship having been moved previously!)
Monday 16 Nov 1953
0 to 4Moored port side to Pier 4, berth # 44, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Boiler #2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving fresh water and telephone services from the pier. SOPA is ComSecFlt., in CincLantFlt Compound, Ships present: various units of the U. S. Atlantic Fleet.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: Sturdivant, LG BM2 USN. 0840. 0815 Commenced conducting following communications training exercises; A-1-C, Communication procedure W/T Operating; A-2-C Communication procedure and R/T operating; A-4-C, Frequency shifting. 1030 Secured from communication exercises.
12 to 16
Moored as before.
16 to 18
Moored as before.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
Tuesday 17 Nov 1953
0 to 4Moored port side to Pier 4, berth #44, Naval Base, Norfolk, VA, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. Boiler #2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving fresh water and telephone services from the pier. SOPA is ComSecFlt., in CincLantFlt Compound, Ships present: various units of the U. S. Atlantic Fleet.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: Sturdivant, LG BM2 USN. 0840. 0815 Commenced conducting following communications training exercises; A-1-C, Communication procedure W/T Operating; A-2-C Communication procedure and R/T operating; A-4-C, Frequency shifting. 1030 Secured from communication exercises.
12 to 16
Moored as before.
16 to 18
Moored as before.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
Wednesday 18 Nov 1953
0 to 4Anchored in berth H-23, Hampton Roads, VA in 4 fathoms of water, hard mud bottom, with 30 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true bearings: Sewalls Point tank 084°; Grain Elevator 117.5°; Middleground 271.5°. SOPA is ComSecFlt., in CincLantFlt Compound. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. 0140 Boorack, P.E., ENC, USN, reported aboard having been absent over leave since 0700 17 November 1953.
4 to 8
Anchored as before. 0450 Lighted fires under boiler #1. 0600 Set the special sea detail and made all preparations for getting underway. 0622 Underway from berth 23, South How Anchorage, Hampton Roads, VA., proceeding to Virginia Capes Operating Area 11C, in accordance with ComPhibLant Quarterly employment schedule. Captain, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to conform with the channel. 0650 Passed Fort Wool abeam to starboard, distance 450 yards. 0655 Entered Thimble Shoals Channel and commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to conform with the channel. 0702 Passed Thimble Shoals Light abeam to port, distance 900 yards. 0740 Commenced working up to 14 knots, 190 RPM. 0755 Passed entrance buoys #1 and #2 abeam to port and starboard distance 120 yards.
8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: None. 0802 Passed Cape Henry abeam to starboard, distance 3000 yards, and set base course of 096°t, 096°pgc. 0815 Main control reports making 14 knots, 190 rpm. 0824 c/c to 078°t, 078°pgc. 0825 Entered International waters. 0900 SU Radar out of operation: exercised crew at general quarters. 0902 Passed Chesapeake Lightship abeam to port, distance 150 yards. 0905 Condition Able set throughout the ship. 0928 Commenced exercising the crew in atomic defense attack; simulated probable atomic attack and set Condition Purple III. 0941 Simulated underwater attack off port bow; c/c to 181°t, 181° pgc. 0943 c/c to 180°t, 180° pgc. 0944 c/c to 081°t, 081°pgc. 0945 Conducted drill W-204-D; Radiological, Biological or Chemical Hazards. 0950 Conducted drill W-205-D Radiological, Biological or Chemical Attack. 1023 Secured from Drills W-204-D and W-205-D; set Condition Baker throughout the ship. 1031 Secured from General Quarters and set the regular steaming watch. 1100 The Captain held Mast and awarded punishment as follows: Boorack, P.E., ENC, USN, Offense: Violation of UCMJ, Article 86; Awarded: further investigation. 1140 SU Radar back in partial operation.
12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1255 c/s to 12 knots, 156 rpm. 1302 c/c to 000°t, 000°pgc; c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. Entered Operating Area 11C. 1306 c/c to 300°t, 300°pgc. 1323 Exercised the crew at General Quarters. Made radio contact with USS SHAKORI, (ATF-162); c/c to 120°t, 120°pgc, to rendezvous with USS SHAKORI (AFT-162). 1330 Set Material Condition ABLE throughout the ship. 1353 Commenced exercise Z-1-G, Elementary Short Range Surface Firing; commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to place tug and tow on port bow for firing run. 1447 Commenced firing mount 51 to port. 1458 Ceased firing Mount 51. 1459 Completed exercise Z-1-G. 1509 c/c to 000°t, 000°pgc; c/s to 4 knots, 56 rpm. 1538 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm; commenced exercise A-19-G, Day Surface Practice CHARLIE; commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds while conducting exercise A-19-G.
16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1612 Commenced firing 20MM's and 40MM's mounts to port. 1614 Ceased firing 20MM's and 40MM's mounts to port. 1623 Commenced firing 20MM's and 40MM's mounts to starboard. 1625 Ceased firing 20MM's and 40MM's mounts to starboard. 1627 Completed Exercise A-19-G; commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to recover pyramid target. 1630 Set Modified Condition Baker. 1632 Secured from general quarters and set the regular steaming watch. 1645 Hoisted aboard pyramid target. 1651 c/s to 4 knots, 56 rpm. set base course of 264°t, 264°pgc. 1658 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 1659 c/s to 12 knots, 156 rpm. 1700 c/s to 13.6 knots, 180 rpm. 1727 c/s to 12.3 knots 160 rpm.
18 to 20
Steaming as before.
20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2110 Sighted Chesapeake Light ship bearing 245°t, distance 10 miles. 2124 c/s to 265°t, 265°pgc. 2128 Stationed the anchor detail. 2150 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 2154 a/e stopped. 2154.5 a/e back 1/3. 2155 a/e back 2/3. 2156 Passed Chesapeake Bay Light Ship abeam to port, distance 3.5 miles. 2158 Anchored north of Chesapeake Bay Light Ship in 8 fathoms of water, hard mud bottom with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearing and range: Chesapeake Bay Light Ship 172°, distance 6200 yards. Boiler #2 in use for auxiliary purposes. 2208 a/e stopped. 2212 Secured the anchor detail and set the regular in port watch. 2229 Secured the main engines.
Thursday 19 Nov 1953
0 to 4Anchored as before. Anchored north of Chesapeake Bay Light Ship in 8 fathoms of water, hard mud bottom with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearing and range: Chesapeake Bay Light Ship 172°, distance 6200 yards. Boiler #2 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA Commanding Officer of this vessel.
4 to 8
Anchored as before 0625 Tested steering engine; Test satisfactory. 0630 Exercised section 3 at drill A-61-S and A-71-E, Emergency getting underway with duty section. 0733 Underway from north of Chesapeake Bay Light Ship proceeding to Lynnhaven Roads, VA, in accordance with ComPhibLant Quarterly Employment schedule. LTJG T. R. Bennett at the conn, Navigator on the bridge. Set base course of 242°t, 242°pgc; speed 4 knots, 56 rpm. 0742 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 0744 Secured from exercises A-61-S and A-71-E, and set the regular steaming watch. 0745 Exercised the crew at man overboard drill; commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to place boat in the water to recover the dummy. 0750 Placed #2 LCVP in the water. 0756 Dummy recovered by #2 LCVP.
8 to 12
Maneuvering on various courses and speeds as before while conducting man overboard drill. 0800 Hoisted #2 LCVP aboard. Mustered crew on stations: Absentees; none. 0807 Secured from man overboard drill. Set base course 242°t, 242°pgc.; speed 4 knots, 56 rpm. 0812 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 0813 simulated loss of lube oil pressure in starboard fire room.. 0814 Simulated casualty restored; lube oil pressure normal. 0815 Simulated broken brush on #1 generator; shifted power to #2 generator. 0818 Replaced broken brush on #1 generator; paralleled #1 and #2 generators. 0822 c/s to 12 knots, 156 rpm. 0847 Commenced Exercise A-96-CC, CIC Casualty procedure. 0905 Completed exercise A-96-CC. 0915 Passed buoy #2A abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. 0922 Passed Cape Henry abeam to port, distance 3500 yards; commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to conform with channel. 0930 Passed Thimble Shoals Channel buoy # 2 abeam to port, distance 75 yards. 0932 Set the anchor detail. 0937 Set the special sea detail; commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds proceeding to anchor. 1009 Anchored in berth LA-14, Lynnhaven Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom, with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings; Channel Buoy #5, 072°; buoy #6, 082°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComLantShipFlot TWO in USS KRISNA (ARL-38). 1014 secured the special sea detail and set the regular in port watch. 1055 Set Condition Baker throughout the ship. 1057 Exercised the crew at General Quarters. 1104 Simulated bomb hit at frame 25, port side. 1110 Simulated class A fire in Compartment A-0101-l. 1111 Simulated fire reported out and Damage Control parties clearing area of heavy smoke. 1117 Damage Control Central reports slightly warped bulkhead at frame 21, port side due to simulated bomb hit. 1118 Commenced drill A-83-E; smoke and gas in starboard engine room. 1119 Investigated and found fumes and smoke cause by simulated bomb hit. Lighted off blower to clear engine room of smoke. 1120 Commenced Exercise A-84-E; Ruptured seam in starboard engine room at frame 73; took suction on #1 and #2 fire and bilge pumps to clear water from bilges. 1123 Mount 51 reported man with simulated broken back; man removed to sick bay on stretcher. 1130 Exercised crew at abandon ship drill. 1157 Secured from abandon ship drill. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
(Remainder of log missing)
Friday 20 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently from Norfolk, VA, to Washington DC in accordance with ComPhibLant Quarterly Employment Schedule and ComPhibLant dispatch 121410z. Boilers #1 and #2 on line. Base Speed is 13.4 knots, 180 rpm; steering various courses conforming with Chesapeake Bay Channel. 0012 c/c to 354°t, 354 °pgc. 0030 c/c to 000°t, 000°pgc; passed buoy #12 RL abeam to starboard, distance 75 yards. 0033 Sighted Smith Point Light bearing 350°t, distance 6 miles. 0055 c/c to 343°t, 343°pgc. 0056 Passed Smith Point Light abeam to port, distance 2500 yards. 0103 c/c to 308°t, 308°pgc. 0110 Entered Potomac River and commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to conform with river channel. 0130 c/s to 13.7 knots, 185 rpm; sighted Point Lookout Light abeam to starboard, distance 2 miles. 0157 Visibility closed to 1.7 miles. 0202 Passed buoy # 6 abeam to starboard, distance 200 yards. 0213 Sighted Piney Point Light, bearing 353.5°t, distance 5 miles. 0218 Passed buoy #8 abeam to starboard, distance 200 yards. 0233 Passed buoy # 10 abeam to starboard, distance 70 yards. 0236 Passed Piney Point Light bearing 295°t, distance 4.5 miles. 0249 Passed Ragged Point Light abeam to port, distance 2000 yards. 0325 Passed Blakton Islands abeam to starboard, distance 1000 yards. 0335 Sighted Cobbs Point Bar Light bearing 315°t, distance 2.5 miles. 0340 c/s to 12 knots, 156 rpm. 0345 Passed Cobbs Point Bar Light abeam to starboard, distance 1700 yards. 0339 passed buoy # 17 abeam to port, distance 75 yards. Entered Kettle Bottom Shoal Channel.
4 to 8
Steaming as before. 0400 Passed buoy #C23 abeam to port, distance 75 yards. 0402 Passed channel buoy C25 abeam to port, distance 75 yards; departed Kettle Bottom Channel. 0419 Passed buoy # H abeam to port, distance 50 yards. 0430 Passed buoy # 29 abeam to port, distance 50 yards. 0437 Passed Upper Cedar Light abeam to port, distance 300 yards. 0440 c/s to 4 knots, 56 rpm. visibility closed to 100 yards. 0447 Visibility improved to 1000 yards, c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 0448 With visibility improved to 100 yards, commenced maneuvering various courses and speeds to conform with river channel. Passed buoy #33 abeam to starboard, distance 25 yards. 0451 Passed under Potomac River Bridge. 0454 Passed Persimmon Shoal Light abeam to port, distance 1000 yards. 0455 a/e back full. 0456 anchored in Potomac River in five fathoms of water, mud bottom, with 309 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true bearings: Center of Potomac River Bridge, 162°t, Persimmon Shoal Light, 250°t; a/e stopped. 0647 Set the special sea detail. 0707 secured the special Seat detail and delayed getting underway due to poor visibility. 0730 Commenced sounding fog signals.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: None. 1000 set the special sea detail and made all preparations for getting underway. 1020 ceased sounding fog signals. 1022 Underway from Potomac River anchorage enroute to Washington DC in accordance with ComPhibLant Quarterly Employment Schedule and ComPhibLant dispatch 121410z. Boilers #1 and #2 on line. Commenced maneuvering various courses and speeds to conform with Potomac River Channel. 1037 Passed buoy # 4 abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. 1046 Passed Mathias Point Light abeam to port, distance 700 yards. 1055 Passed Upper Cedar Point Light abeam to starboard, distance 500 yards. 1113 Passed buoy # 15 abeam to port, distance 700 yards. 1119 Passed red nun buoy abeam to starboard, distance 150 yards. 1124 Passed red nun buoy #18 abeam to starboard, distance 300 yards. 1127 Passed Maryland Point Light abeam to port, distance 500 yards. 1136 Passed buoy #22 abeam to starboard distance 50 yards. 1140 Passed buoy #24 abeam to starboard, distance 50 yards. 1147 Passed buoy #26 abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. 1154 Passed nun buoy # 28 abeam to starboard, distance 50 yards. 1156 Passed red nun buoy # 30 abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1200 Passed buoy #32 abeam to starboard distance 150 yards. 1204 Passed red nun buoy abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. 1213 Passed buoy #40 abeam to starboard, distance 150 yards. 1230 Passed lighted buoy # 44 abeam to starboard, distance 60 yards. 1256 Passed buoy #52 abeam to starboard distance 50 yards. 1302 Passed Indian Head Point Light abeam to starboard, distance 500 yards. 1320 Passed buoy #58 abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. 1324 Passed Hallowing Point abeam to port, distance 700 yards. 1329 Passed buoy #62 abeam to starboard, distance 50 yards. 1334 Passed buoy # 64 abeam to starboard, distance 50 yards. 1339 Passed buoy #66 abeam to starboard distance 100 yards. 1343 Passed buoy #67 abeam to port, distance 100 yards., and entered Mount Vernon Channel. 1350 Passed Mount Vernon abeam to port, distance 1800 yards, and rendered honors accordingly. 1358 Passed buoy #76 abeam to starboard, distance 50 yards. 1401 Passed Fort Washington Light abeam to starboard, distance 200 yards. 1408 Passed buoy # 84 abeam to starboard, distance 200 yards. 1417 Passed buoy #88 abeam to starboard distance 200 yards. 1425 Passed buoy #2 abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. 1426 Passed Jones Point Light abeam to to port, distance 600 yards. 1427 Sighted Capitol Dome bearing 012°t, distance 6 miles. 1428 Passed red nun buoy abeam to starboard, distance 100 yards. 1431 Passed buoy # 6 abeam to starboard, distance 75 yards. 1432 Passed red nun buoy #8 abeam to starboard distance 100 yards. 1502 Passed Washington Monument abeam to port, distance 8 miles. 1503 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds in order to pass through Anacostia Bridge. 1511 Passed through Anacostia Bridge. 1520 YTB 140 Secured to port bow. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speed with aid of tug proceeding to moor to pier. 1538 Moored starboard side to sea wall, west of Finger Pier #5, Washington, DC with 4 manilla and 2 wire lines. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving telephone services from the pier. SOPA is Commanding Officer this vessel. 1546 Secured the special sea detail and set the regular inport watch. 1547 YTB 140 cast off. 1555 Pilots left the ship.
16 to 18
Moored as before.
16 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
Saturday, November 21, 1953
0 to 4Moored starboard side to sea wall, west of Finger Pier #5, Naval Gun Factory, Washington, DC with 4 manilla and 2 wire lines. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving telephone services from the pier. SOPA is Commanding Officer this vessel.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0900 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: Bruner, F. J., BM3, USN; Thomas, C. R., BM3, USN. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Moored as before. 1320 Various troops of boy scouts came aboard for an unofficial visit. 1550 The boy scouts departed the ship
16 to 18
Moored as before. 1630 Bruner, F. J., BM3, USN; Thomas, C. R., BM3, USN, returned aboard having been absent over leave since 0730 this date.
18 to 20
Moored as before.
20 to 24
Moored as before.
Sunday, November 22, 1953
0 to 4Moored starboard side to sea wall, west of Finger Pier #5, Naval Gun Factory, Washington, DC with 4 manilla and 2 wire lines. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Receiving telephone services from the pier. SOPA is Commanding Officer this vessel.
4 to 8
Moored as before.
8 to 12
Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions, normal.
12 to 16
Moored as before. 1445 Set the special sea detail and made all preparations for getting underway. 1514 YTB 141 secured to the port bow. 1515 YTB 140 secured to port quarter. 1521 Pilot James came aboard and assumed the conn. 1526 Underway from seawall west of Finger Pier #5, Naval Gun Factory, Washington, DC, proceeding to Norfolk, VA, in accordance with ComPhibLant Quarterly Employment schedule. Pilot James at the conn, Captain, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to with aid of tugs to enter Anacostia River Channel. 1542 Tugs YTB 140 and 141 cast off; entered Anacostia River Channel and commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to conform to channel. 1546 Passed through Anacostia (sic) River Swing Bridge. 1557 Passed Washington Monument abeam to starboard, distance 2 miles.
16 to 18
Steaming as before maneuvering on various courses and speeds while transiting Anacostia River Channel. 1600 Entered the Potomac River Channel. 1620 Passed Jones Point abeam to starboard, distance 300 yards. 1622 Secured the special sea detail and set a modified sea detail and anchor watch. 1628 Passed Rosier Bluff Light abeam to port, distance 200 yards. 1646 Passed Fort Washington abeam to port, distance 200 yards. 1655 Passed Mount Vernon abeam to starboard, distance 2000 yards. 1713 Passed Whitestone Point abeam starboard, distance 500 yards.
18 to 20
Steaming as before maneuvering on various courses and speeds to conform with the Potomac River Channel. 1815 Passed Quantico Dock abeam to starboard, distance 1000 yards. 1844 Passed Smith Point abeam to port, distance 650 yards. 1902 Passed buoy #23 abeam to starboard, distance 40 yards. 1916 Passed Maryland Point Light abeam to port, distance 800 yards. 1934 Passed River Side Light, abeam to port, distance 400 yards. 1947 Passed Upper Cedar Point abeam to port, distance 300 yards.
20 to 24
Steaming as before maneuvering on various courses and speeds to conform with the Potomac River Channel. 2013 Passed under Potomac River Bridge. 2152 Passed Ragged Point light abeam starboard, distance 800 yards. 2207 Passed Piney Point Light abeam port, distance 2000 yards. 2254 Passed Point Lookout Light abeam to port, distance 2.3 miles. 2338 Left Potomac River channel and entered Chesapeake Bay; set base course of 140°t, 140°pgc; speed 12 knots, 156 rpm. 2339 c/s to 14 knots, 190 rpm. 2340 c/c to 155°t, 155°pgc. 2343 Passed Smith Point Light abeam to starboard, distance 2100 yards. 2346 c/c to 180°t, 180°pgc.
23 Nov 1953
0 to 4Steaming independently under boilers #1 and #2 enroute from Washington, DC, proceeding to Norfolk, VA, in accordance with ComPhibLant Quarterly Employment schedule. Steaming in Chesapeake Bay on course 187°t, 187°pgc; speed 14 knots, 190 rpm. 0005 Passed Great Wicomico light abeam to starboard, distance 5 miles. 0010 c/c to 180°t, 180°pgc. 0032 c/c to 172°t, 172°pgc. 0049 c/c to 180°t, 180°pgc. 0058 Passed Windmill Light abeam to starboard, distance 4 miles. 0103 Passed Rapahannock Spit buoy abeam to starboard, distance 1,000 yards. 0141 c/c to 178°t, 178°pgc. 0151 Passed Wolf Trap light abeam to starboard 2 miles. 0219 c/c to 182°t, 182°pgc. 0229 c/c to 184°t, 184°pgc. 0234 c/c to 188°t, 188°pgc. 0240 c/c to 190°t, 190°pgc. 0245 c/c to 185°t, 185°pgc. 0258 c/c to 172°t, 172°pgc. 0323 c/c to 185°t, 185°pgc. 0329 c/c to 250°t, 250°pgc. 0331 c/c to 265°t, 265°pgc. 0336 c/c to 285°t, 285°pgc. 0342 c/c to 287°t, 287°pgc. 0350 Passes Thimble Shoals Light abeam to starboard, distance 300 yards
4 to 8
Steaming as before. 0355 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to conform with Thimble Shoals Channel. 0406 Passed Old Point Comfort Light abeam to starboard, distance 800 yards. 0409 Passed Fort Wool abeam to port, distance 1000 yards. 0414 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds proceeding to anchor. 0500 Anchored in berth H-26, Hampton Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Grain Elevator, 115, Middleground light 269°, Sewell Point Tank, 076°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComSecFlt in CinClantFlt Compound. 0507 Secured the special sea detail and set regular in port watch.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations; absentees: Baldwin, H. E., Jr., BM3, USN; Thompson, W.W., BM3. 1100 Baldwin, H. E., Jr., BM3, USN; Thompson, W.W., BM3, returned aboard having been absent over leave since 0800 this date.
12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1300 Pilot James left the ship. 1345 Set the special sea detail and preparations for getting underway to shift berths. 1447 Commenced heaving in anchor to short stay. 1502 Decision made to remain in anchorage berth H-26. Walked anchor out to 45 fathoms of chain on deck. 1503 Secured the main engines. 1510 Secured the special seat detail and set the regular in port watch.
16 to 18
Anchored as before.
18 to 20
Anchored as before.
20 - 24
Anchored as before.
Tuesday 24 Nov 1953
0 to 4Anchored in berth H-26, Hampton Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Grain Elevator, 115, Middleground light 269°, Sewell Point Tank, 076°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComSecFlt in CinClantFlt Compound.
4 to 8
Anchored as before.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters; absentees: none.
12 to 16
Anchored as before.
16 to 18
Anchored as before.
18 to 20
Anchored as before.
20 to 24
Anchored as before.
Wednesday 25 Nov 1953
0 to 4Anchored in berth H-26, Hampton Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Grain Elevator, 115, Middleground light 269°, Sewell Point Tank, 076°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComSecFlt in CinClantFlt Compound.
4 to 8
Anchored as before.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters; absentees: none. 0856 A Summary Court LT. F. H. GUNKLE, (SC) USN convened to try the case of Boorack, P. E. ENC, USN. 0918 The Court was convened at 0856 adjourned and published findings and sentence as follows. Charge: Violation of UCMJ, Article 86, Findings: Guilty, Sentence: To be restricted to the limits of the ship for ten (10) days.
12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1530 the Commanding Officer departed the ship on 3 (three) days annual leave. LCDR L. F. Scott, departed the ship on one (1) day annual leave.
16 to 18
Anchored as before.
18 to 20
Anchored as before.
20 to 24
Anchored as before.
Thursday 26 Nov 1953
0 to 4Anchored in berth H-26, Hampton Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Grain Elevator, 115, Middleground light 269°, Sewell Point Tank, 076°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComSecFlt in CinClantFlt Compound.
4 to 8
Anchored as before.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters; absentees: none.
12 to 16
Anchored as before.
16 to 18
Anchored as before.
18 to 20
Anchored as before.
20 to 24
Anchored as before.
Friday 27 Nov 1953
0 to 4Anchored in berth H-26, Hampton Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Grain Elevator, 115, Middleground light 269°, Sewell Point Tank, 076°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComSecFlt in CinClantFlt Compound.
4 to 8
Anchored as before.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 1040 YW 119 secured to port boat deck; commenced taking on fresh water.
12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1205 Ceased taking on fresh water having taken on 45,000 gallons of potable water. 1210 YW 119 casted off port boat deck.
16 to 18
Anchored as before.
18 to 20
Anchored as before.
20 to 24
Anchored as before.
Saturday 28 November 1953
0 to 4Anchored in berth H-26, Hampton Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Grain Elevator, 115, Middleground light 269°, Sewell Point Tank, 076°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComSecFlt in CinClantFlt Compound.
4 to 8
Anchored as before.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at foul weather parade; absentees: Reed, F. B., TA, USN Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal.
12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1230 Reed, F. B., TA, USN, returned aboard having been absent over leave since 0800 this date.
16 to 18
Anchored as before.
18 to 20
Anchored as before.
20 to 24
Anchored as before.
Sunday 29 Nov 1953
0 to 4Anchored in berth H-26, Hampton Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Grain Elevator, 115, Middleground light 269°, Sewell Point Tank, 076°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComSecFlt in CinClantFlt Compound.
4 to 8
Anchored as before.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters; absentees: none. 0830 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal.
12 to 16
Anchored as before.
16 to 18
Anchored as before.
18 to 20
Anchored as before.
20 to 24
Anchored as before.
Monday 30 Nov 1953
0 to 4Anchored in berth H-26, Hampton Roads, VA, in 5 fathoms of water, mud bottom with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Grain Elevator, 115, Middleground light 269°, Sewell Point Tank, 076°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComSecFlt in CinClantFlt Compound.
4 to 8
Anchored as before. 0430 The Commanding Officer returned aboard from three (3) days annual leave. LCDR L. P. Scott returned aboard from 1 day leave.
8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters; absentees: Kvam, L. (n) BM3, USN; Reavis, N. P. SN, USN; Thompson, W. W., SN , USN; Indre, C. L. FN, USN; Garrison, FN. M., FN, USN, Crooks, J. G., CSSN. 1045 The following named men returned aboard having been absent over leave since 0730 30 November 1953: Kvam, L. (n) BM3, USN; Reavis, N. P. SN, USN; Indre, C. L. FN, USN; Garrison, FN. M., FN, USN; Crooks, J. G., CSSN. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. Made weekly inspection of magazines sprinkler system. Condition: Satisfactory, with the exception of A-304-M and A-305-M whose valves will not open without applying extra leverage, requiring new valves. 1045 Pursuant to BuPers orders Pers-B1114-hs-1 of 29 September 1953, CDR Frank L. Barrows, USN, reported aboard for duty.
12 to 16
Anchored as before.
16 to 18 Anchored as before.
18 to 20
Anchored as before.
20 to 24
Anchored as before.