Operation Bluenose

Detail and Photos for Frobisher Bay


LOG BOOK OF THE U. S. S. ASHLAND LSD-1

COMMANDED BY: W. L. Phaler, Commander, U. S. N.

ATTACHED TO: Twenty-First LSD Division,

Second LSD Squadron,

Amphibious Forces, U.S. Atlantic Fleet,

Tuesday 28 July, 1953

00 to 04
Steaming in company with USS EDISTO (AGB-2) in ice free area 10 miles East of Cape Warwick, Resolution Island while waiting for improvement in ice conditions of Sorry Harbor, before proceeding into Sorry Harbor to load cargo in accordance with verbal orders of CTG Boilers #1 and #2 are on the line. We are maneuvering on various courses and speeds, maintaining same relative position. SOPA is CTG 150.3 embarked in this vessel. OTC while in ice is Commanding Officer of USS EDISTO (AGB-3).
H B PARKER
LTJG, USN

04 to 08
Steaming as before. 0520 USS EDISTO (AGB-2) left formation to proceed to Sorry Harbor to scout ice conditions in Sorry Harbor and approaches to Sorry Harbor.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

08 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations, absentees: none. 0847 Received word from USS EDISTO (AGB-2) that ice conditions in Sorry Harbor are improving rapidly due to change in current. 0553 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds proceeding through ice fields of 3/10 coverage to join USS EDISTO (AGB-2) which is lying to 3 miles East of Cape Warwick. 0920 Rendezvoused with USS EDISTO (AGB-2) and commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds following astern of USS EDISTO (AGB-2). through heavy block ice 6/10 coverage. 0947 Set the Special Sea Detail. Set material condition Baker. 1014 USS EDISTO (AGB-2) turned out of our path in order that we might proceed independently to anchorage through ice field of 2/l0 coverage. 1029 Anchored in Sorry Harbor, Resolution Island in 30 fathoms of water, rocky bottom, with 120 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Left tangent Cape Warwick 0! 83.5° , Survey Beacon 033°, Survey Beacon 357°. Boilers #1 and #2 are in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is CTG 150.3 embarked in this vessel. 1103 Secured the Special Sea Detail and set the regular in port watch. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Made weekly inspection of magazine sprinkler systems. Conditions satisfactory.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1420 commenced ballasting, draft fwd 18'8", aft 18'6". 1430 LCM A-3 Entered well deck. 1433 LCM A-4 entered well deck. 1448 LCM A-2 entered well deck. 1451 Ceased ballasting, draft fwd 15' 0", aft 27'6". 1457 Commenced deballasting. 1503 LCM A-8 entered well deck.
R T PETERSON
ENS, USNR

16 to 18
Anchored as before. 1625 Ceased deballasting, draft fwd 17'0", aft 18'2". 1630 Set the Special Sea Detail, and made all preparations for getting underway. 1654 Underway from Sorry Harbor, Resolution Island, proceeding to Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, in accordance with CTF 150 verbal orders. Captain at the Conn., Pilot OSBORNE and Navigator on the bridge. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to turn the ship and head for the USS EDISTO (AGB-2) which is lying to 2000 yards astern of us. Ice coverage 3/10 of heavy block ice. 1735 Fell in astern of USS EDISTO (AGB-2) and commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds proceeding out of harbor astern of USS EDISTO (AGB-2). 1750 Passed Cape Warwick abeam to Starboard, distance 2000 yards. 1755 Secured the Special Sea detail and set the regular steaming watch.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1810 Due to ebb tide, heavy block ice of from l0-l5 feet thick and 10/10 coverage has accumulated off entrance to Sorry Harbor in a belt of from two to three miles wide. Commenced transit through this belt of heavy block ice. 1817 Due to fact that ice closes path opened up by ice breaker while following at a distance of 400 yards, this vessel closed up to within 200 yards of USS EDISTO (AGB-2). 1925 Cleared heavy ice field, ice coverage now 1/10. Set base course of 090°t. Speed 4 knots, 56 rpm. USS EDISTO (AGB-2) is guide in column formation. Our position is 500 yards astern. 1932 c/c to 084°t. 1945 Visibility closed to 500 yards. 1947 Commenced sounding fog signals.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2002 c/s to 5 knots, 62 rpm. 2021 c/c to 070°t. 2025 c/s to 7 knots, 85 rpm. Commenced maneuvering on various courses while maintaining station 500 yards astern of USS EDISTO (AGB-2). 2205 c/c to 030°t. 2218 c/s to 3, knots, 40 rpm. 2229 c/c to 025°t. 2232 c/s to 5 knots, 63 rpm. 2242 c/s to 3.5 knots, 46 rpm. 2246 c/c to 28°t.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

Wednesday 29 July, 1953

00 to 04
Steaming in company with USS EDISTO (AGB-2) proceeding from Sorry Harbor, Resolution Island, to join remainder of TG 150.3 which is lying to approximately 20 miles East of Cape Warwick, Resolution Island. USS EDISTO is guide. Cur position is approximately 1000 yards astern. Base course is 030°t, speed is 3 knots. Boiler #2 is on the line, boiler #1 is secured on one-half hours notice. SOPA and OTC is CTG l50.3 embarked in this vessel. Fog lookouts are posted and fog signals are being sounded.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

04 to 08
Steaming as before. Occasional course and speed, changes are made to keep proper station on USS EDISTO (AGB-2).
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

08 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters, absentees. None. 1006 Joined remainder of TG 150.3. USS EDISTO was ordered by CTG 150.3 to proceed to Frobisher Bay for ice reconnaissance.
H C FISHER
ENS, USNR

12 to 16
Steaming as before on course of 040°t, speed 3.5 knots, 45 rpm. 1325 USS LST-503 took station 1500 yards astern of this vessel. 1344 c/s to 3 knots, 40 rpm. 1405 c/c to 060°t, in order to avoid large bergybit. 1444 c/c to 300°t, awaiting for other ship to form on us. 1452 Lighted fires under #l boiler, boosting steam. 1502 Secured fires under #1 boiler.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

16 to 18
Steaming as before on course 300°t, speed 3 knots, 40 rpm. We are awaiting the forming of a column disposition astern of us by the USS LST-503, USNS NODAWAY, and the SS MONROE VICTORY, interval 1000 between ships. 1700 c/s to a/e ahead 5 knots, 62 rpm. 1800 Column disposition formed, order of ships astern as mentioned above.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1805 Changed formation course by column movement to 345°t. 1825 Changed formation course by column movement to 030°t. 1850 Formation c/c to 075°t. 1915 Changed formation course by column movement to 120°t.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2002 c/s to a/e stopped. 2004 All ships in this formation commenced lying to awaiting improvement in the weather. 2040 Ceased sounding fog signals. 2107 Commenced sounding fog signals for vessel underway with no way on.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

Thursday 30 July, 1953

00 to 04
Lying to as before off Cape Warwick, Resolution Island, Labrador in company with USS LST-503, USNS NODAWAY, and SS MONROE VICTORY. Boiler #2 is on the 1ine. Boiler #1 is secured on 30 minutes notice. OTC is CTG 150.3 (ComLSDRon TWO) embarked in this vessel. 0132 s/e ahead 1/3. Underway on course 135°t to increase distance to Cape Warwick by two miles. 0133.5 a/e ahead 1/3, 3 knots, 40 rpm. 0218 a/e stopped. 0220 Commenced lying to.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

04 to 08
Lying to as before. Visibility 2000 yards.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USN

08 to 12
Lying to as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters, absentees: None. 1120 a/e ahead 1/3, 3 knots, 40 rpm. 1120 c/c to 090°t. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USNR

12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1330 Secured #2 boiler; lit #1 boiler. 1421 a/e stopped Commenced lying to. 1529 Lit #2 boiler. 1539 Secured #1 boiler on one-half hours notice.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

16 to 18
Lying to, as before.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

18 to 20
Lying to as before.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

20 to 24
Lying to as before. 1942 s/e ahead 1/3, 52 rpm, in order to place the ship on a headingof 030°t, in preparation for forming up the ships present in a column disposition in the following order: USS ASHIAND (LSD-l), USS LST-503, USNS NODAW,AY, and SS MONROE VICTORY. Distance between ships 1000 yards. 2019 Set base course of.030°t, pursuant to verbal orders of CTG 150.3. Ships astern maneuvering to take assigned stations in column. Set base speed of 3 knots, 40 rpm. Fog lookouts in bow posted in addition to regular lookouts. Visibility 500 to 1500 yards, varying frequent1y.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

Friday 31 July, 1953

00 to 04
Steaming on boiler #2 in company with USS LST-503, USNS NODAWAY, SS M0NR0E VICTORY on course 030°t, speed 3 knots. ASHLAND (LSD-l) is guide, standard distance is 1000 yards. OTC is CTG 150.3 (ComLSDRon TWO) embarked in this vessel. Boiler #1 is secured on thirty minutes notice. 0245 c/s to 4 knots, 51 rpm.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

04 to 08
Steaming as before.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

08 to 12
Steaming as before on base course of 030°t, speed 4 knots, 51 rpm, comparatively ice free waters. 0800 Mustered crew on stations, absentees: None, 0830 c/c to 330°t. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1240 c/c to 051°t. 1243 c/c to 345°t. 1248 Resumed base course 051°t. 1315 c/c to 025°t. 1402 Set base course 040°t. 1528 c/c to 090°t.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1640 C/C TO 000°T. Visibility 1500-2500 yards.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

18 to 20
Steaming as before.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2300 c/c to 090°t. 2320 c/c to 143°t.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

Saturday, 1 August 1953

00 to 04
Steaming in column formation with USS LST-5O3, USNS NODAWAY and SS MONROE VICTORY in the general area East of Cape Warwick, Resolution Island waiting for ice conditions to improve in Frobisher Bay before proceeding from Sorry Harbor, Resolution Island to Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay in accordance with CTF 150 Verbal orders. Course is;143°t. Speed is 4 knots, 51 rpm. ASHLAND is guide, standard distance between ships is 1000 yards. OTC and SOPA is ComLSDRon TWO embarked in this vessel. Boiler #2 is in use, boiler #1 is secured on 30 minutes notice. 0020 a/e stopped. All ships in formation commenced lying-to. 0239 Proceeded in formation on course 060°t, speed 4 knots, 51 rpm.
T R BENNETT
LTJG USNR

04 TO 08
Steaming as before. 0620 C/C TO 110°T. 0647 C/C TO 185°T.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

8 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations, absentees: None.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1240 USNS NODAWAY, and USS LST-503 departed from, column formation to conduct full power run to eliminate carbon deposits. 1500 c/c to 345°t. 1530 USNS NODAWAY resumed column formation astern of ASHLAND.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1609 c/c to 315°t. 1610 USS LST-503 rejoined formation.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1906 All ships in this formation c/c in column to NEW BASE COURSE 045°t.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2030 c/c to 024°t. 2100 c/s to a/e ahead 2/3, 7 knots, 85 rpm. 2100 USNS NODAWAY and SS MONROE VICTORY were detached from this unit to proceed in accordance with ice transit order of CTG 150.3. 2330 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 2331 Lighted fires under #1 boiler. 2342 Boiler #1 on the line.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

Sunday 2 August, 1953

00 to 04
Steaming in company with USS LST-503 under boilers #1 and #2 from Sorry Harbor, Resolution Island, to Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay in accordance with CTF 150 verbal orders. Base Course is 025°t. Speed is 8 knots, 98 rpm. Steaming in column formation, distance 1000 yards. This vessel is guide. SOPA and OTC is GTG 150.3 embarked in this vessel. 0000 c/c to 010°t. 0013 c/s to 9 knots, 111 rpm. 0218 c/c to 280°t.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

04 to 08
Steaming as before. 0508 c/s to 3 knots, 40 rpm. 0605 Sighted USS Staten Island (AGB 5) bearing 318%deg;t, distance 6 miles. 0722 c/c to 238°t. 0729 c/c to 244°t. 0732 c/c to 270°t. 0734 c/c to 265°t. 0735 c/s to 6 knots, 73 rpm. 0750 Rendezvoused with USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5)
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

08 to 12
Steaming as before. 0000 Mustered crew on stations, absentees none. 0003 Set material condition Baker prior to entry into ice fields. 0825 Formed column formation standard distance of 500 yards in this order: USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5), USS ASHLAND(LSD 1) and USS LST-503. Commanding Officer of USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5) assumes OTC while transiting ice fields. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at- various speeds while proceeding up Frobisher Bay through ice coverage generally of about eight-tenths with the small floes moving with the current. Belts of ice of ten-tenths coverage often being formed, and movement of the ice often causing the ice to close quickly astern of the ice breakers. 0950 As the USS LST-503 was having difficulty maintaining station the USS ASHLAND (LSD-l) and the USS LST-503 exchanged positions in the formations. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1230 Commenced working towards the southern shore of Frobisher Bay to take advantage of shore lead in ice discovered by the USS EDISTO (AGB-2) . 1400 Progress through ice slowed by increased concentrations of ice. Ice now generally ten-tenths closely packed and medium and small floes. 1509 Commenced lying to awaiting flood tide to open leads through ice fields. H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

16 to 18
Lying to as before, astern of USS LST-503, and USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5) awaiting opening through ice. 1608 Commenced closing on USS LST-503 at various courses and speeds. 1718 Lying to awaiting change in current. 1738 Secured fires under #1 boiler on 30 minutes notice.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

18 to 20
Lying to as before. 1846 Ice fields gradually opening up. Commenced forming in column formation, this vessel close astern of the USS LST-503, which is close astern of the USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5), preparatory to passing through ice fields. Base course is 270°t. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds in order to maintain station close astern of the USS LST-503, and avoid large floes and bergybits. 1851 Boiler #1 back on the line. Ice coverage now about nine-tenths.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

20 to 24
Steaming as before on various courses and speeds in order to maintain station close astern of USS LST-503 while transiting ice. Ice coverage now generally eight-tenths to nine-tenths medium and small floes. Working towards shore lead along southern shore of Frobisher Bay.
H B PARKER
LTJG, USNR

Monday 3 August, 1953

OO to 04
Steaming in company with USS LST-503 and USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5) from Sorry Harbor, Resolution Island to Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, in accordance with CTF 150 verbal orders. Base course is 270°t, speed 4 knots, 58 rpm. We are maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds along base course proceeding through ice fields astern of USS LST-503. SOPA is CTG 150.3 embarked in this vessel. OTC during transit of ice fields is Commanding Officer of USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5). 0145 Increasing ice concentrations and darkness is making ice transit more difficult and more dangerous. Progress very slow, averaging less than 2 knots. Secured #1 boiler on 30 minutes notice. 0150 Commenced lying to 5 miles east of Henderson Inlet, awaiting daylight and change of tide prior to continuing transit of ice fields. 0326 Lighted fires under boiler #1. 0343 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds following astern of USS LST-503 while proceeding through ice fields along general base course of 300°t. Ice Coverage eight-tenths medium and small floes.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

04 TO 08
Steaming as before. 0417 Changed base course to 223°t, to work more directly toward shore lead. USS ASHLAND (LSD-1) proceeding to work her way without ice breaker assistance through more open water with ice of six-tenths coverage, to the south of the USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5) and USS LST-503. 0507 Reached relatively open shore lead along southern coast of Frobisher Bay with ice coverage three to four-tenths with belts of eight-tenths concentration. Changed base course to 295°t. 0522 Slowed to allow USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5) and USS LST-503 to take station ahead. 0540 proceeding in column formation behind USS LST-503 along shore lead, steering various courses and speeds to avoid heaviest concentrations of ice.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

08 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters, absentees: none. 0900 Passed into relatively open water about two-tenths coverage. 0929 Commenced lying to, to transfer personnel. 0945 The following named men were transferred to the USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5) for transportation to USNS GENERAL GREELY for TAD: BLACKWOOD, K E BM2, USN; JOHNSON, H B GM3, USN. 1013 Transfer completed , commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds, closing on USS LST-503. USS STATEN ISLAND (AGB-5) detached from further ice escort duty. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder, samples Conditions normal. 1125 ASHLAND becomes guide and USS LST-503 is following astern while maneuvering on various courses and speeds while proceeding through scattered ice fields of about two-tenths coverage.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

12 to 16
Steaming as before, ice coverage generally two to four-tenths in lead with belts of six to eight-tenths concentration. 1224 Entered belt of seven-tenths medium and small floe. During transit of this belt it often became necessary to take the way off the ship, ease up to the floes that could not be avoided and push the floe out of the way. 1254 Passed through ice belts and into relatively clear water of two-tenths coverage. Changed base course to 315°t. 1306 Passed President's Seat abeam to port, distance 2500 yards.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1611 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 1712 c/s to 10.5 knots, 135 rpm.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

18 to 20
Steaming as before.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS. USNR

20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2004 Set the special sea detail in preparation for passing through Algerine and Deep Passages. 2010 Algerine Passage discovered blocked by ice. Plans changed to pass through Bartlett Narrows. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds avoiding bergybits and growlers while approaching Bartlett Narrows. Pilot OSBORNE at the Conn., Captain, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. 2050 Passed Peak Island abeam to port distance 500 yards. 2109 Entered Bartlett Narrows. 2134 Left Bartlett Narrows and c/c to 265°t. 2138 c/c to 250°:t; passed Low Island abeam to port, distance 900 yards. 2142 c/c to 329°t. 2145 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to avoid scattered ice. 2205 Passed Pink Lady abeam to port, distance 900 yards. 2210 c/c to 306°. 2217 c/c to 274°t. 2227 c/c to 320°t. 2330 Detached USS LST-503 to proceed independently to her assigned anchorage.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

Tuesday 4 August, 1953

00 to 04
Steaming independently from Sorry Harbor, Resolution Island to Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay in accordance with verbal orders of, CTF 150. Base course is 341°t, base speed is 10.5 knots. Boilers #1 and #2 are on the line. Maneuvering on various courses and various speeds approaching anchorage. SOPA and OTC is CTG 15O.3 embarked in this vessel. 0001 Stationed the ballasting detail. 0041 Anchored in berth Baker, Koojesse Inlet Frobisher Bay In 17 fathoms of water, hard bottom, with 105 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Survey Beacon 052°, Left tangent Long Island 320°, Monument Island 258°. SOPA is ComLSDRon TWO embarked in, this vessel. 0015 Commenced ballasting, draft fwd 16'6", aft 18'8". 0045 Set US Army LCM into the water from the starboard side of the super-deck. 0103, Secured main engines. 0l04 Secured the Special Sea Detail and set the regular in port watch. 0110 Secured #1 boiler, boiler #2 in use for Auxiliary purposes. 0130 Commenced moving 6 US 4rmy LCM's and 2, LCU's, out of the well deck 0145 Ceased ballasting, draft fwd 27' 7", aft' 25'. 0205 Commenced deballasting, draft fwd 27'7", aft 25'. 0230 Set US Army LCM into the water from the port side of the super-deck 0240 Completed moving 6 US Army LCM's and, 2 LCU's from the well deck. 0245 Commenced setting 6 US Army DUKW's into the water from the super-deck. 0257 Ceased deba1lasting, draft fwd 16'9", aft 23'. Secured ballasting detail. 0325 Completed setting 6 US Army DUKW's into the water.
A V MITCHELL
BOSN, USN

04 TO 08
Anchored as before.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

08 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters, absentees: None. 0831 Pursuant to Commanding Officer's Standard Transfer Order 86-53, dated 3 August 1953, FLYNN S P QM3; USN was transferred to Nearest Naval Hospital CONLUS for treatment. Authority NavMed Form "G" dated 3 August 1953. Made daily inspection of magazines and smoke1ess powder samples; conditions normal.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1427 Set the Special Sea detail and made all preparations for getting underway. 1443 Foc'sle reports port anchor coming with heavy strain. Stopped off port anchor at 15 fathoms on deck and made starboard anchor ready for letting go. 1451 underway from berth Baker, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher ,Bay, proceeding to the center of same berth Baker. Captain at the Conn., Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds proceeding to center of berth Baker. 1518 Anchored in berth Baker, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher, Bay, with 45 fathoms, of chain to the, starboard anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Long Island 329°, Monument Island 250°, Survey Beacon 069°. 1525 Secured the Special Sea detail and set the regular in port watch. 1537 Hauled in port anchor, boulder caught in anchor was apparently causing strain. l543 Hauled in starboard anchor and dropped port anchor. Anchored in berth Baker, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, in 20 fathoms of water, sticky mud, bottom, with 120 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Long Island 329°, Monument Island 250°, Survey Beacon 069°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA, is CTG ,15O.3 embarked in this vessel.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

16 to 20
Anchored as before. 1650 Exercised the crew at fire drill. Captain, First Lieutenant and Chief Carpenter inspected ship's hull and stern gate for ice damage. 1710 Secured from fire drill.
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

20 to 24
Anchored as before. 2315 Commenced ballasting, draft fwd 16'O", aft 16'5". 2317 Ceased ballasting draft fwd, 18'0", aft 25'0'.
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

Wednesday 5 August, 1953

00 to 04
Anchored in Berth Baker, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, in 20 fathoms of water, sticky mud bottom, with 105 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Long Island 329°t, Monument Island 250°t, Survey Beacon 069°t. Boi1er #l in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present, various units of TG 150.3. SOPA is CTG 150.3 embarked in this vessel. 0355 Received LCM A-8 and LCU 204 in well deck for repairs. 0355 Commenced deballasting.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

04 to 08
Anchored as before. 0400 Set all clocks back one hour to conform to zone time plus 5 (Roger time). LCU 1223 Cast off from port side. 0526 Ceased deballasting, draft fwd 15'6", aft 17'3", Mean 16'4".
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

08 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters, absentees: None. listing ship 4° to starboard in order to weld bilge plates on LCU 1204. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1415 Completed repairs to LCU-1204. 1438 Righted ship. 1512 Commenced ballasting, draft fwd 15'6", aft l7'3". 1555 LCU 1204 left well deck. 1555- Ceased ballasting, draft fwd 13'0", aft 25'0".
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

16 to 20
Anchored as before. 1605 Commenced deballasting, 1730 Ceased deballasting, draft fwd l5'6", aft 19'0", Mean 17'3".
H H POWELL
CHCARP, USN

20 to 24
Anchored as before.
H H POWELL
CHCARP, USN

Thursday 6 August, 1953

00 to 04
Anchored in berth Baker Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay in 20 fathoms of water, sticky mud bottom, with 120 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Long Island 329°, Monument Is1and 250°, Survey Beacon 069°. Boiler #2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Snips present; various units of TG 150.3. SOPA is CTG 150.3 embarked in this vessel.
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

04 to 08
Anchored as before.
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

08 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters, absentees: None. 0855 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1018 USNS BLUE JACKET stood out from anchorage to sea.

A V MITCHELL
BOSN, USN

12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1458 USNS GENERAL HEINTZMAN stood out from anchorage to sea.
A V MITCHELL
BOSN, USN

16 to 20
Anchored as before. 1715 USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14) stood in to anchorage. 1835 USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14) anchored.
A V MITCHELL
BOSN, USN

20 to 24
Anchored as before.
A V MITCHELL
BOSN, USN

Friday 7 August, 1953

00 to 04
Anchored in berth Baker, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, Baffin Island, in 20 fathoms of water, sticky mud bottom, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Long Island 329°, Monument Island 250°, Survey Beacon 049°. Boiler #2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present, various units of TG 150.3. SOPA is ComLSDRon Two (CTG 150.3) embarked in this vessel.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

04 to 08
Anchored as before. 0435 SHARP, R B, FA, USN received multiple lacerations of right hand and simple fracture of second finger right hand caused by hatch falling on hand while man was c1imbing ladder leading from starboard engine room. Treatment: X-ray, splint dressing, bandage. Responsibility: Negligence of unknown person who used hatch earlier.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

8 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations, absentees: None. 0830 Made daily inspection of magazines and smoke1ess powder samples, conditions normal. 0900 Lit off #2 boiler. 0910 Secured #1 boiler. 1000 In accordance with Commanding Officer, US NavRecSta, San Diego, California STO #631 CRUMP, W D, BT2, USN reported aboard with transfer papers, records and baggage for resumption of duties, TAD under instruction complete. Auth: ComPhibLant spdltr ser 1734-P of 11 FEB 1953. In accordance with Commanding Officer, U S NavRecSta, Norfo1k, Virginia STOs #6304 and, #6251, TH0MPS0N, R E, SN, USN and CHERRY, L G, SHSN, USN reported aboard from leave. In accordance with ComNavRecSta, Norfolk, Virginia STO #6300, DAWSON, K R, YNSN; USN reported aboard with transfer papers, records and baggage; for duty with ComLSDRon TWO. Auth: ComPhibLant spdltr ser 4806 of APR 1953. In accordance with CO RecSta, Norfolk, Virginia STO #6178, BERCKMAN, W (n), SN, USN reported aboard with! transfer papers, records and baggage for duty. Auth: ComPhiblant dispatch 29l803Z, of June 1953. In accordance with CO, RecSta, Norfolk, Virginia STO #6286, FLSHER; H J, FP3, USN reported aboard with transfer papers, records and baggage for duty. Auth: ComPhiblant spdltr ser 10970 of 18 Nov 1952. In accordance with CO, NSCS, Bayonne, New, Jersey STO #512, CARTER, J E, SH3, US reported aboard with transfer papers, records and baggage for resumption of duties, TAD under instruction complete. Auth: ComPhibLant spdltr ser 5230-P of 24 APR 1953. In Accordance with CO, SubGroupOne, ChasnGruLantResFlt STO #339, ROBINSON, J H, YN1, USN reported aboard with transfer papers, records and baggage for duty. Auth: ComServLant, spdltr ser 12067X8120 of 29 April 1953. Th accordance with CO, NavRecSta, Brooklyn; New York STO # 2182, GRANT, H R, FA, USN reported aboard with transfer papers, records and baggage for duty. Auth: ComPhibLant Rep dispatch 291805Z of June 1953. In a! ccordance with CO, NavRecSta, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania STO #617, O K EEFE, W D, SN, USN reported aboard with transfer papers, records and baggage for duty. Auth: ComPhibLant dispatch 241549Z of June 1953.1120 Commenced ballasting draft Fwd 16'0", aft l8'6".
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1220 Ceased ballasting, draft fwd 24'O", aft 24'O". 1345 LCM A-8 left well deck. 1417 Embarked #1 Causeway into well deck. 1453 Embarked #2 Causeway into well deck. 1511 Commenced deballasting, draft fwd 24'0" aft 24'0".
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

16 to 20
Anchored as before. 1615 Army tug entered well deck. 1800 Set the Special Sea detail and made all preparations for getting underway. 1815 Ceased deballasting, draft fwd 16'6" aft 17'6". 1831 Underway from berth Baker, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay proceeding to moor starboard side to USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14) in berth Item, Koojesse Inlet, in accordance with verbal orders of CTG 150.3. Captain at, the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds proceeding through anchorage toward the USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14). 1848 Upon observing yaw of USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14) deemed it inadvisable to moor at this tine. Passed starboard side to USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14). 1900 c/c to 305°t, waiting for Army LCM's to attempt to prevent USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14) from yawing prior to mooring alongside. 1915 Master gyro compass reported out of commission. 1915 Class fire in electrical switch reported in galley. 1928 Fire reported out! . 1929 Secured from fire quarters. 1942 c/c to 047°psc. 2006 Master gyro compass reported back in operation. c/c to O80°t. Due to inability of LCM's to prevent yawing of USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14), deemed inadvisable to attempt mooring at this tine. Requested permission from CTG 150.3 to anchor in the general vicinity of the USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14). Permission granted by CTG 150.3 to anchor near USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14). Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds proceeding to anchorage.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2010 Anchored in Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay in 24 fathoms of water, mud bottom, with 120 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Long Island 350°, Monument Island 314°, Survey Beacon 039°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present, various units of TG 150.3. SOPA is CTG 150.3, embarked in this vessel. 2028 Secured the Special Sea detail and set the regular, in port watch.
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

Saturday 8 August, 1953

00 to 04
Anchored in Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, in 24 fathoms of water, sticky mud bottom, with 120 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Long Island 350°, Monument Island 314°, Survey Beacon 039°. Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present, various units of TG 150.3.- SOPA is CTG 150.3 embarked in this vessel.
L C FAUST
CHELEC, USN

04 to 08
Anchored as before. 0710 Set the Special Sea detail and made all preparations for getting underway. 0725 Master Gyro Compass reported out of operation. 07505 Underway from anchorage in Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, proceeding to moor starboard side to USS RUSHMORE (LD-14) in berth Item, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay in accordance with verbal orders of CTG 150.3. Captain at the conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds proceeding around the stern of the USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14).
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

08 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations, absentees: None. 0814 Moored starboard side to USS RUSHMORE(LSD-14) in berth Item, Koojesse Inlets, Frob1sher Bay, with 4 manila lines and 2 wire lines. 0850 Pursuant to orders of ComLSDRon TWO dated 8 August l953 the following personnel were transferred to USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14) for TAD in connection with Operation SUNEC: NORVILLE, M L, DKC, USN, AFLORD W R, AG3, USN; MARCHANT J L AGAN, USN. Authority: Verbal Orders of ComLSDRon TWO. Made daily inspection of magazines and, smokeless, powder samples, conditions normal.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

12 to 16
Moored as before. 1530 Master gyro compass back in operation. 1545 Set the Special Sea detail and made all preparations for anchoring in present position while USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14) casts off and proceeds to anchor in berth Baker in accordance with verbal orders of CTG 150.3.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

16 to 20
Moored as before. 1600 Cast off all lines from USS RUSHMORE (LSD-14). 160l Anchored in berth Item, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, in 14 fathoms of water, sticky mud bottom with 120 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Survey Beacon 040°, Long Island 356°, Monument Island 332°. Boiler #1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA is ComLSDRon TWO, embarked in this vessel. 1613 Secured the Special Sea detail and set the regular in port watch. 1710 Pursuant to Commanding Officer of USS LST-503 Standard Transfer Order #28-53, Ensign W. F. BROWN 556333, USN reported aboard in charge of 25 men of Amphibious Construction Battalion TWO for transportation to CONLUS. Authority: Verbal orders of CTG 150.3.
H H POWELL
CHCARP, USN

20 to 24
Anchored as before.
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

Sunday 9 August, 1953

00 to 04
Anchored in berth Item, Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay, in 24 fathoms of water, sticky mud bottom, with 120 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the fo11owing~tru& anchorage bearings: Survey beacon 040°, Monument Island 332°, Long Island 356° Boiler #1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: various units of TG 150.3 2 SOPA is ComLSDRon TWO embarked in this vessel.
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

04 to 08
Anchored as before.
R T PETERSON
LTJG, USNR

08 to 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 1045 Lighted fires under boiler #2. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

12 to 16
Anchored as before. 1224 Set the special sea detail and made all preparations for getting underway. 1301 Underway from anchorage berth Item, Koojesse In1et, Frobisher Bay, Baffin Island, proceeding independently to St. Johns, Newfoundland, in accordance with CTF 150 dispatch O81635z of August 1953, Captain at the Conn., Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Set base course of 160°t; speed 12 knots, 156 rpm. 1320 Secured the special sea detail and set the regular steaming watch. 1400 Set the special sea detail in preparation for proceeding through Bartlett Narrows, Pilot Osborne at the Conn. 1414 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds proceeding through Bartlett Narrows. 1426 Passed Pink Lady Island abeam to starboard, distance 400 yards. 1447 Passed Low Island abeam to starboard, distance 500 yards. 1509 Passed Peak Island abeam to starboard, distance 400 yards; departed Bartlett Narrows. 1515 c/s to 12 knots, 156 rpm. 1550 Secured the special sea detail and set the regular steaming watch. 1558 Set base course of 130°t.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

16 TO 18
Steaming as before. 1602 c/c to 150°t. 1627 c/s to 8 knots, 98 rpm. 1638 c/c to 135°t. 1640 c/c to 132°t. 1641 c/c to 134°t. 1644 Sighted USNS SAGITTA bearing 175°t, distance 8 miles. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to close with the SAGITTA. 1713 a/e stopped. 1717 Lowered gig into the water to transfer Pilot to the SAGITTA. 1721 Pilot Osborne transferred to the SAGITTA. 1725 Hoisted aboard the gig. 1726 c/s to 4 knots, 51 rpm. 1726 c/c to 130°t. 1727 c/s to 7 knots, 85 rpm.
H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

18 to 20
Steaming as before. 1819 c/c to 141°t. 1826 c/c to 114°t. 1845 c/c to 148°t. 1853 c/c to 151°t. 1906 c/c to 133°t. 1938 c/s to 8.5 knots, 105 rpm. 1941 c/s to 9 knots, 111 rpm.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR

20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2001 c/s to 10 knots, 125 rpm. 2142 c/s to 4 knots, 51 rpm 2144 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds while working way through drift ice of 4/10 coverage.
H B PARKER JR
LTJG, USN

Monday 10 August, 1953

00 to 04
Proceeding independently from Koojesse Inlet, Frobisher Bay to St. John's, Newfound1and in accordance with CTG 150 dispatch 081635z of August 1953. SOPA is ComLSDRon TWO embarked in this vessel. Boilers #1 and #2 are on the line. Base course is 131°t, speed is 4 knots, 56 rpm. Maneuvering as necessary to transit ice of 3/lO coverage. 0017 Rendezvoused with USS EDISTO (AGB-2). 0017 Commenced lying to off President's Seat; Frobisher Bay, Baffin Island awaiting daylight prior to proceeding further through the ice fields. Secured #1 boiler on 1/2 hours notice. 0027, Received small boat from USS EDISTO (AGB-2) along side to starboard. 0030 Passed mail to small boat of USS EDISTO. 0033 Small boat left from alongside. 0050 USS EDIST0 (AGB-2) got underway to proceed approximately 10 miles north-West of our position to escort USNS O'BRIEN through the ice. 0330 Lighted fires under boiler #l. 0348 USS EDISTO (AGB-2) and USNS O'BREN arrived at our position. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to fall in astern of USS EDISTO (AGB-2) for transit of ice.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

04 to 08
Steaming as before. 0416 Fell in 400 yards astern of USS EDISTO (AGB-2). USNS O'BRIEN is 500 yards astern of us. Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds following USS EDISTO (AGB-2) through the ice.

H C FISHER JR
ENS, USNR

08 to 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters, absentees: None. 1045 Completed transit of ice fields and entered open water. c/c to 127°t, speed 9 knots 111 rpm. 1120 Released USS EDISTO (AGB-2) from further ice escort duty proceeding independently to St. John's, Newfoundland. 1123 Commenced working up slowly to 12,knots, 156, rpm. 1123 Main control reports making 12 knots, 156 rpm. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1138 c/c to 115°t. 1154 c/c to 100°t.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

12 to 16
Steaming as before. 1204 Secured SU radar for repairs. 1243 c/s to 165 rpm, 12.5 knots. 1307 c/c to 146°t. 1315 Lowered sword to pitometer log: Reading 5303.7. 1350 SU radar back in operation.
T R BENNETT
LTJG, USNR

16 to 18
Steaming as before. 1650 Exercised the crew at fire drill. 1700 Secured from fire drill. 1714 c/s to 13 knots, 173 rpm.

H C FISHER JR
LTJG, USNR

18 to 20
Steaming as before. Visibility varying from 300 to 800 yards, fog lookouts posted.
L E ALEXANDER
ENS, USNR

20 to 24
Steaming as before. 2100 Visibility increasing to 2000 yards.
D G MC INNES
LTJG, USNR


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Updated: December 28, 2003