|
0650
|
OTC
gave signal over TBS "090 Turn.
|
|
0652
|
Order
given to jettison three (3) remaining napalm bombs located
on No.5 sponson.
|
|
0654
|
Gun
flashes observed on horizon to the Northwest and large caliber
salvo splashes were seen fabling near the ships on the northern
side of the formation. Enemy's initial firing range estimated
as approximately 35,000 yards.
|
|
0655
|
All
planes on the flight deck (7 TBM-1C and 10 FM-1) turning
up ready for launching.
|
|
0657
|
Commenced
launching planes.
|
|
0705
|
Completed
launching all planes on flight deck, (This left 4 TBM-l
C aboard -all on hangar deck) .
|
|
0708
|
Brought
1 TBM-IO up the forward elevator.
|
|
0709
|
OTC
signalled by TBS "All carriers launch all aircraft" .
|
|
0710
|
Launched
1 TBM (loaded with 1 torpedo) .Destroyer screen deployed
making smoke to cover the CVE group.
|
|
0715
|
--0730
Foul weather between own Task Unit and closing enemy force
momentarily checked fire and only a few salvo splashes were
observed in the formation during this period.
|
|
0723
|
Changed
course on TBS signal to the south.
|
|
0730
|
Picked
up on SG radar two or three vessels bearing 1700 (T) distance
19 miles .
|
|
0730
|
Enemy
force, at least six separate tracks on DRT, making approaches
from 2700 around to about 060°.
|
|
0731
|
Advance
cruiser unit moving around our northeast flank. Estimated
speed of this unit -30 knots. Weather partially cleared
between own and ports of enemy force.
|
|
0731
|
Salvos
splashing intermittently near GAMBlER BAY; WHITE PLAINS
and FANSHAW BAY under concentrated fire.
|
|
0732
|
Destroyer
screen ordered by OTC to deliver a torpedo attack.
|
|
0733
|
One
TBM-l C loaded with a torpedo brought up from hangar deck
on forward elevator.
|
|
0734
|
Commenced
pumping aviation gasoline to gas the plane now on the
flight deck . |
