USS Circe(AKA-25)

CIRCE: in Greek legend, daughter of Helios, the sun god, and sister of Aeetes and Pasiphae. She was a celebrated enchantress. She changed the companions of Odysseus into swine, but Odysseus forced her to break the spell. A late legend says that she bore him a son, Telegonus. Her island, Aeaea, was identified by the ancients with various islands off Italy.

The U.S.S. Circe (AKA-25), christened by Mrs. R.E. Dougherty, wife of a Vice-President of the New York Central Railroad, was launched at 1900, 4 August 1944 from way #5, Walsh-Kaiser Shipyard, Providence, R.I. The Invocation for Almighty God's Blessing and Protection was graciously delivered by the Reverend Harold E. Hutton of Providence, R.I.

The U.S.S.Circe is a U.S. Maritime Commission Hull of the S-4-BE-1 series, designed for the U.S. Navy.

Distinguishing characteristics of this particular type vessel are:

ARMAMENT:

On 6 November 1944, the U.S.S. Circesteamed a 7 hour pre-commissioning sea-trial in the waters of Narragansett Bay.

Preceding the Commissioning Ceremony and in a downpour of rain, the Invocation of the Almighty Blessing was delivered by the Reverend Harold E. Hutton of Providence, R. I.

The Commissioning party included the following:

At 1027, 10 November, Lieutenant Commander V.J. Barnhart, USNR, assumed command of the U.S.S. Circe(AKA-25) immediately following the Commissioning Ceremony conducted by Commander Stone, USNR at State Pier, Providence, R.I. The officers and men who were assigned to the Circe'spre-commissioning detail trained and were molded into a seagoing unit during the autumn of 1944.

They were transferred as a unit from the training station, at Newport, R.I. to this ship at Providence, R.I. on 10 November and were on deck at the commissioning ceremony. These below named officers and men subsequently sailed with the U.S.S. Circeas her initial crew.

Many of these men have been transferred and discharged from the ship and the service prior to this writing; however, they are noted here as a matter of historic interest.

COMMANDING OFFICER 
Lt. Comdr. V.J. Barnhart USNR
EXECUTIVE OFFICER 
Lt. Comdr. J.W. Hirth USNR
DEPARTMENT HEADS 
Ensign M.E. Commer USNR
Lt. H.E. Dorsey USNR
Lt.jg W.P. Morse USNR
Lt. G.S. Oglesby USNR
Lt. R.W. Smith USNR
Lt.jg W.H. Turner, Jr. USNR
Lt.jg C.N. Zellers USNR
JUNIOR OFFICERS 
Lt.jg T.T. Arthur USNR
Ensign J.B. Brahmann USNR
Lt.jg L.A. Burns USNR
Ensign G.E. Colby USN
Ensign W.J. Decherd USNR
Ensign F.A. Gilson USNR
Ensign J.P. Irvin USNR
Ensign J.E. Keff USNR
Ensign D.C. Lewis USNR
Lt.jg P.F. Matranga USNR
Lt.jg R.F. Mcfall USNR
Lt.jg M.O. Peterson USNR
Ensign J.E. Phillips USNR
Ensign M.C. Staats USN
Ensign R.P. Sullivan USNR
Ensign W.M. Welsh, Jr. USNR
Ensign F. Zator USNR
WARRANT OFFICERS 
Electrician A.J. Evans USN
Carpenter J.W. Keller, Jr. USNR
Boatswain W.G. Mathers USN
Pay Clerk H.H. Ritzwoller USNR
Machinist T.R. Wesson USN
CHIEF PETTY OFFICERS 
Bille, A.J. CWM USN
Corbett, J.P. CWT USN
Cornelius, M. CPhM USN
Davidson, J.A. CRM USNR
Foster, J.J. CBM USN
Hagan, W.S. CCS USNR
Harris, N.S. CEM USNR
Hoar, C.E. CSF USN
Hughes, R.P. CGM USN
Menard, E.C. CMM USN
Nesbitt, J.G. CQM USN
O'Callaghan, C. CCM USNR
Rawson, J.L. CSM USN
Saltalamacchia, J.F. CSK USNR
Starkie, R.E. CMM USN
Stoddard, F.W. CBM USN
Wright, L.J. DCY USNR
PETTY OFFICERS FIRST CLASS 
Amoroso, J.A. GM1c USNR
Bernard, P.G. SK1c USNR
Cox, B.S. BM1c USNR
Deangelis, a. MM1c USNR
Degges, A.H. MoMM1c USN
Dick, H.P. EM1c USNR
Eberling, E.G. MoMM1c USNR
Fiala, P.P. EM1c USNR
Funderburke, W.C. SM1c USN
Garner, M.M. MM1c USN
Hayn, O.B. EM1c USNR
Lewis, S.E. BM1c USNR
Lucas, F.K. WT1c USNR
Miller, S.F. MM1c USNR
Nagle, R.P. Y1c USNR
Noonan, T.J. RM1c USNR
Noreiko, V.O. SF1c USNR
Sledgister, V.G. MoMM1c USNR
Sofia, J.J. SC1c USNR
Sweeney, T.F. PhM1c USN
Sylvester, G.A. GM1c USN
Vorhies, W.J. Bkr.1c USNR
PETTY OFFICERS SECOND CLASS 
Bosworth, W.E. SK2c USNR
Chandler, T.W. MM2c USNR
Conley, E.F. Y2c USNR
Dickhart, J. BM2c USNR
Evers, J.B. Bkr.2c USNR
Fousty, T.J. SSM(B) USNR
Frascatore, P. M2c USNR
Godwin, J.D. WT2c USNR
Goff, W.F. RM2c USNR
Grosvenor, J. BM2c USNR
Haley, J.C. RM2c USNR
Hall, C.J. BM2c USNR
Huber, F.M. QM2c USNR
Knisbell, A.J. MM2c USNR
Lawrence, H.F. EM2c USN
Leo, B.A. MM2c USNR
McFarland, R.L. GM2c USNR
Mears, H.E. CM2c USNR
Nash, W.J. PhM2c USNR
Nerlich, J. MM2c USNR
Overmeyer, c.F. SM2c USNR
Parker, J.H. BM2c USNR
Poole, H.C. GM2c USNR
Rasmussen, D.J. RT2c USNR
Roberts, C.H. EM2c USNR
Ryba, J.T. MoMM2c USNR
Sargent, E.J. SM2c USN
Shortt, J.P. SK2c USNR
Simonnetti, V. MM2c USNR
Smith, R.W. BM2c USN
Standal, W. EM2c USNR
Swetland, A.L. SF2c USNR
Wentzel, J.A. BM2c USNR
Williamson, F.M. SC2c USNR
Witkowski, A.A. MM2c USNR
PETTY OFFICERS THIRD CLASS 
Agee, J.M. MM(S)3c USNR
Krimm, G.G. RM3c USNR
Altom, Y.J. MoMM3c USNR
Krunnel, R.F. Cox USN
Braddy, J. MoMM3c USNR
LaSure, L.E. Y3c USNR
Barci, D.E. SM3c USNR
Matthews, H.B. RM3c USNR
Bayhi, W.C. EM3c USNR
May, E. SF3c USNR
Bigger, J. EM3c USNR
McGillivray, N. Mt3c USNR
Burbank, E.K. MoMM3c USNR
Newman, C.R;. SC(B) USNR
Burroughs, T.R. Cox USNR
Oxrider, G.P. WT3c USNR
Carzelloni, R.M. MoMM3c USNR
Pelosi, J.A. SM3c USNR
Cauley, R.F. SC3c USNR
Petty, L.A. MoMM3c USNR
Caverly, C.N. GM3c USNR
Porges, D.H. PhM3c USNR
Chaffee, R.H. SM3c USNR
Ragona, J.J. MoMM3c USNR
Clark, W.R. RM3c USNR
Rosenthal, M. EM3c USNR
Cunningham, D. EM3c USNR
Rushton, W.P. GM3c USNR
Czykoski, O. Cox USNR
Schooley, F. B3c USNR
D'Aloia, N. SC3c USNR
Swales, T.E. Cox USNR
Davis, N.E. Cox USNR
Taylor, F.A. QM3c USNR
Deaton, T. Cox USNR
Thomas, L.L. GM3c USNR
Durost, P.R. SK3c USNR
Thum, K.B. FC3c USNR
Fulton, R.J. FC3c USNR
Tobin, B. RM3c USNR
Gutierrez, M.A. SM3c USNR
Toczyl, J. Cox USNR
Hadra, S. Cox USNR
Tyrie, R.B. MoMM3c USNR
Hall, R.H. MM3c USNR
Van Alstyne, S.E. MM3c USNR
Hilton, L. SK3c USNR
Yerks, A.C. Cox USN
Ireton, R.W. RM3c USNR
SEAMAN FIRST CLASS   
Arnold, R.D. USNR    
Jackson, C.P. USNR  
Parish, G.E. USNR  
Austin, H.H. USNR  
Johns, J.H. USNR  
Phillips, W.L. USNR  
Begandy, J.T. USNR  
Justice, G. USNR  
Price, A. USNR  
Bennett, E.D. USNR  
Kaminsky, L. USNR  
Reeshowy, E.J. USNR  
Bernel, D.L. USNR
Kaptain, B.W. USNR
Rone, H.V. USNR  
Bitner, O.E. USNR  
Keener, C.T. USNR  
Rogers, G.J. USNR  
Campbell, J. USNR  
King, R.J. USNR  
Rogers, J.K. USNR  
Curtice, C.H. USNR  
Kirby, C.E. USNR  
Scheetz, H.E. USNR  
Davis, H.B. USNR
Kitt, L.L. USNR  
Slosson, R. USNR  
Davis, W.E. USNR  
Lacy, L. USNR  
Stellitano, D.J. USNR  
Day, T.K. USNR  
LeMaster, W.F. USNR  
Sullins, C.V. USNR  
Dean, F.C. USNR  
Lenehan, F.W. USNR  
Vido L.C. USNR  
Duxbury, T. USNR  
Lent, A.J. USNR  
Walk, D.J. USNR  
Farris, R.N. USNR  
Lewis, C.W. USNR  
Weaver, J.R. USNR  
Fitch, T.R. USNR  
Linek, M.J. USNR  
Westergard, R. USNR  
Gorman, R.N. USNR  
Loomis, C.T. USNR  
Weybright, C.P. USNR  
Griffith, M. USNR  
Lucevero, J.W. USNR  
Wheeler, R.H. USNR  
Harbison, L.R. USNR  
Marksian, H.E. USNR  
Wittanen, E.A. USNR  
Hardy, A.M. USNR  
McMahon, W.P. USNR  
York, R.B. USNR  
Hewitt, M.E. USNR  
Montoni, F.J. USNR  
Jaeger, W.J. USNR  
Murphy, J.I. USNR  
SEAMEN SECOND CLASS   
Bechtol, J.C. USNR  
McCarley, C.L. USN  
Rupe, W.P. USNR  
Brandom, A.J. USNR  
McClendon, J.C. USNR  
Russell, K.M. USNR  
Bucci, F.P. USNR  
McGrath, R.J. USNR
Rygelski, J.A. USNR  
Cinelli, R.A. USNR  
Miller, W.C. USNR  
Sain, J.E. USNR  
Cline, W.E. USNR  
Musselwhite, G.C. USNR  
Samsel, J.F. USNR  
Denblyker, P. USNR  
Renn, L.B. USNR  
Rapp, G.E. USNR  
Dwyer, E.W. USNR  
Richmond, B.S. USNR  
Scutt, W.G. USNR  
Faria, W. USNR  
Robbins, J.A. USNR  
Sherrill, R.F. USNR  
Ferrell, A.J. USNR  
Roberts, C.E. USNR  
Shoemaker, C.L. USNR  
Foster, H.D. USNR  
Roberts, D. USNR  
Simcox, C.J. USNR  
Ford, H.E. USNR  
Rockovich, J.G. USNR  
Starnes, J.F. USNR  
Hinzman, R.B. USNR  
Rogers, W.S. USNR  
Yokom, E.G. USNR  
Hitchcock, E.C. USNR  
Roper, L.C. USNR  
Zielinski, J.S. USNR  
Johnson, J.W. USNR  
Round, W.E. USNR  
Zimmerman, E.N. USNR  
Duncan, R.L. USNR  
FIREMEN FIRST CLASS   
Barnes, N.E. USNR  
Haas, R.J. USNR  
Robinson, F.R. USNR  
Burzynski, V.A. USNR  
Hedenkamp, R.F. USNR  
Ross, V.F. USNR  
Buchtel, W.H. USNR  
Hyde, R.E. USNR  
Sibert, R.S. USNR  
Buntrock, E.C. USNR  
Johnson, A.E. USNR  
Staub, R.R. USNR  
Burger, E.P. USNR  
Kriesel, H.A. USNR  
Tackett, C.G. USNR  
Burkett, J.I. USNR  
McPeters, R.W. USNR  
Tokarski, W. USNR  
Coury, E.F. USNR  
Noonan, R.F. USNR  
Wade, S.M. USNR  
Garner, R.L. USNR  
Reed, D.L. USNR  
Webb, B.H. USNR  
Gigliello, A.G. USNR  
FIREMEN SECOND CLASS   
Funk, W.F. USNR  
South, E.W. USNR  
Watson, O.E. USNR  
Sanidas, G.T. USNR  
Surenda, R.F. USNR  
Whatley, E.L. USNR  
Senters, G.S. USNR  
OFFICERS COOKS
Gatewood, R.L. Ck2c USNR
Hendricks, R.L. Ck3c USNR
STEWARDS
JOHNSON, J.E. St3c USNR
Shortridge, H.N. St3c USNR
STEWARD MATES
Atkinson, J. StM1c USNR
Smoak, B. StM1c USNR
Middleton, D.J. StM1c USNR
Mobley, D. StM1c USNR
Moore, G. StM1c USNR
Reed, C.W. StM1c USNR
Porter, T. StM1c USNR
Pee, G. StM1c USNR
Greene, D.S. StM1c USNR

The following is a roster of all officers and men who have served aboard the USSCirce(AKA-25) since placed in commission on 10 November 1944, and whose addresses are available:
 
COMMANDING OFFICER 
Victor J. Barnhart Lt. Comdr. USNR Curtin, Pennsylvania
EXECUTIVE OFFICER 
Joseph W. Hirth Lt. Comdr. USNR 641 Scott St., Port Townsend, Wa
NAVIGATION DEPARTMENT 
William H.Turner,Jr. Lieut. USNR Carthage, Tn
Francis C. Zator Lt.jg USNR 84 Grove St. Hempstead, L.I., N.Y.
COMMUNICATION DIVISION 
William P. Morse Lieut. USNR 1301 Steuben Av. Wausau, Wn
John B.Drahmann Lt.jg USNR Perham, Mn
Dustin C. Lewis Lt.jg USNR 2516 View Ct, NW Canton, Oh
William J. Decherd Lt.jg USNR 1701 Stanford Ln, Austin, Tx
John E. Phillips Ensign USNR 14 Defense Ct, Oakland, Ca
C&R DEPARTMENT 
Howard E. Dorsey Lieut. USNR 87 S. Lansdowne Av, Lansdowne, Pa.
Francis A. Gilson Ensign USNR 2597 Bainbridge Av, Bronx, N.Y.
John E. Loff Lt.jg USNR 504 Roosevelt Av, Eveleth, Mn
Joseph P Irvin Lt.jg USNR 216 S. Logan Av, Audubon, N.J.
William E. Binet Lt.jg USNR 1114 N. 2nd Av, Grand Rapids, Mn
Herbert E. Hizer Lt.jg USNR 523 N. 16th St, Elwood In
Robert J. Bossert Lt.jg USNR 1260 Section Rd, Cincinnati, Oh
William G. Mathers Ensign USN 5233 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, Ca
J. William Keller Ch.Carp USNR 1011 E. Jersey St, Elizabeth, N.J.
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT 
Guy S. Oglesby Lieut. USNR 86 Brown St, Providence, R.I.
Gaylord E. Colby Lt.jg USN 4948 N. Front St, Philadelphia, Pa
Michael C. Staats Lt.jg USN Box 286, R#4, Port Orchard, Wa
Peter F. Matranga Lt.jg USNR 1630 Brookline Av, Rosemead, Ca
Thomas R. Wesson Ch. Mach USN 1509 College St, Newberry, S.C.
Alfred J. Evans Ch. Elec. USN 148 Coyne Av, Minooka, Pa
GUNNERY DEPARTMENT 
Maurice E. Conner Lt.jg USN Shawsville, Va
William M. Welsh Jr. Ensign USNR 256 Burtis Av, Rckvle Cent, LI, N.Y.
LANDING CRAFT UNIT 
Melvin O. Peterson Lieut. USNR 1160 Jefferson St, Muskegon, Mi
Robert F. McFall Lieut. USNR 19605 Shaker Blvd, Cleveland, Oh
Lawrence A. Burns Lt.jg USNR 4357 Fullerton Av, Detroit, Mi
Robert P. Sullivan Lt.jg USNR 945 N. 7th St, Manitowoc, Wn
Worth K. Blacker Ensign USNR Box 314, R#3, Sayre, Ok
MEDICAL DEPARTMENT
Robert W. Smith Lt. Comdr. USNR Chenango Bridge, N.Y.
Thomas T. Arthur Lieut. USNR 1460 Earlham Dr, Dayton, Oh
SUPPLY DEPARTMENT
Charles N. Zellers Lt.jg USNR 81 Clifton Dr, Youngstown, Oh
James C. Lowder Ch.PayClk USN Box 115 R#3, Sayre, Ok
Herman H.Ritzwoller Pay Clk USN 5555 Everette Av, Chicago, Il

ALPHABETICAL LIST
Absher, Ralph R. EM3c Box 411, Ripon, Ca
Arnold, Roy D. BM2c 169 E. VanBuren, Battlecreek, Mi
Aston, Richard PS1c 366 Willow St, Waterbury, Ct
Atkinson, John StM1c 1825 Hamilton, New Orleans, La
Austin, Hal H. Jr. Cox RFD 1, Austinville, Va
Baer, Joseph F. Jr. RM2c 3232Faith Av, Baltimore, Md
Banes, N.E. MoMM2c Bogart, Mo
Bechtol, James C.. RdM3c Woodward, Pa
Begandy, J.T. SC1c 585 Lexington, Rochestire, N.Y.
Bello, E.G. MM3c 1017 Simonton St, Key West, Fl
Bermel, Donald L. Cox 8132 Norchestire Av, Chicago, Il
Bigger, Joseph EM2c RFD 1, Glen Cambell, Pa
Bognar, Eugene EM2c Oakland Av, RFD 19, New Brunswick, N.J.
Bosworth, Wayne E. SK1c 6629 S. Oakley Av, Chicago, Il
Brandon, Allen J. Sr. RdM2c 918 N. 24th St, Joseph, Mo
Brown, John T. S1c RFD 4, Cullman, Al
Bucci, Frank P. S1c 113 S. Pitus Av, Ithaca, NY
Buchtel, William H. MoMM3c Reading, Ar
Burger, Edward P. WT2c 23115 FarmingtonRd, Farmington Mi
Burkett, John I. Jr. WT3c 69 Susquehanna St, Middletown, Pa
Buntrock, E.C. WT3c Port Huron, Mi
Burns, G.T BM2c 801 Newhall St, San Francisco, Ca
Burzynski, Victor A. MoMM1c 1413 Gasrfield Av, Bay City, Mi
Cauley, Raymond E. Jr. SC1c Hot Springs, Va
Cavaliere. Paul S. MM3c 296 Madison Av, Patterson, NJ
Chaffee, Richard M. SM2c 246 S. Lamer, Burbank, Ca
Cinelli. Robert A. Cox 9326 43rd Av, Elmhurst, NY
Clark, W.R. RM2c 106 Arlington Av, Portsmouth, Va
Cline, William E. GM2c RFD 4, Fairfield, Il .
Conner, Henry L. SM1c 414 W. 24th St, Sioux City, Ia
Corrello, Clarence D. F1c 4243 Bermass, Toledo, Oh
Curry, Richard D. RM3c 726 E. H St, Ontario, Ca
Curtice, Charles H.Jr FCO3c 766 Wren Walk, Akron, Oh
Czyckoski, O.E. BM2c RFD 1, Gaylord, Mi
Day, P.E. EM2c 1301 S. Queen St, York, Pa
DeAngelis, A. MM1c 288 Main St, Stoneham, Ma
Deaton, E. BM2c Mountainvurg, Ar
Degges, Andrew H.Jr CMoMM 528 1st St. S.E., Washington, D.C.
Destralo, Salvatore Cox 1704 S. 10th St, Philadelphia, Pa
Donahue, Kenneth J. WT3c 1003 N. 7th St, Mankato, Mn
Duffek, Paul W. MM3c Box 112, Mattoon, Wn
Duncan, Robert C. PhM3c 1910 E. 89th St, Cleveland, Oh
Durost, Percy R. SK2c 20 Western Av, Mars Hill, Me
Eberling, Edward G.Jr MoMM1c 30965 Center Ridge Rd, Westlake, Oh
Ecskert, Harold T. S2c 22 Sleeper St, Middleport, NY
Erling, Richard C. RM3c RFD 2, Okonagan, Wa
Ewing, Cahrles E.Jr Cox 2090 Loma Vista, Pasadena, Ca
Fahey,Thomas J. MM3c 1049 Belmont Av, Philadelphia, Pa
Faria, William Y2c 300 Dartmouth St, New Bedford, Ma
Farris, R. S1c Lost Creek, Ky
Feinberg, Stanley SC2c 359 Atkins Av, Brooklyn, NY
Ferrell, Anderson J. SSML3c RFD 1, Lucama, NC
Fiala, Peter EM1c 57 Pocantico St, N. Tarrytown, NY
Finkner, Carroll J. SM3c 1254 Linden Av, Halethorpe, Md
Fitch, Theodore R. S1c 177 Fies Av, Marion, Oh
Ford, Henry E. RdM3c 57 Summer St, Barre, Vt
Foster, Hatten E. S1c RFD 2, Longview, Tx
Foster, H.D. GM2c Tullahoma, Tn
Fousty, T.J. SSMB2c 459 E. Union Av, Bound brook, NJ
Frost, Raymond A. SKD1c Pancoast Lodge, Miami Beach, Fl
Fulton, R.J. Jr. FC1c 40 E. Maplewood Av, Dayton, Oh
Funderburke, W.C. SM1c Wadesboro, NC
Funk, Walter F. MM3c RFD 3, Shaunton, Va.
Garner, Mallory M. CMM RFD 1, Alexander, Va
Garner, Richard L. EM2c 845 North St, Bartow, Fl
Gaus, John E. PhM2c RFD 2, Sharon Pa
Griffith, Marion Cox RFD 1, Greenup, Ky
Goff, W.F. RM1c 28 Carpenter St, Pawtucket, RI
Gorman, Robert N. S1c RFD 3, London Oh
Green, Gordon R. SM2c 539 W. Main, Ionia, Mi
Greener, Phillip L. HA1c Box 121, Forrest, Ms
Grim, James A. SK3c RFD 1, Douglass, Tx
Gross, Lester H. MM3c 516 N. 12th St, Sheboygan, Wn
Grosvenor, J. BM1c 135 Bruce St, Scotia, NY
Hass, Robert J. MM3c 18425 Eleven Mile Rd, Roseville, Mi
Hadra, S. BM2c Mount Carmel, Il
Haley, J.C. RM1c 1206 Moreau Dr, Jefferson City Mo
Harbison, Lee R. Jr. SM2c 2001 15th Av. S., Birmingham, Al
Hayn, O.B. CEM 1125 N. Central Av, Glendale, Ca
Hewitt, Murral E. S1c 417 Market St, E. St.Louis, Il
Hines, Robert L. StM1c 730 Sterling St, Petersburg, Va
Hitchcock, Elmer C. SM3c RFD 10, East Lansing, Mi
Hodges, Veral E. SCB3c Buhl, Id
Hostler, John H. MM3c Box 42, Main St, Corbin City, NJ
Hurst, Leon J. F1c Box 414, Spur Tx
Hyde, R.E. WT3c 717 Lafayette St. N., Greenville, Mi
Ireton, Robert W. RM2c 102 3rd St, Evertt, Ma
Jackson, Charles P. BM2c 608 Centrell St, Irvine, Ky
Jackson, Jack L. EM3c R#4, Walla Walla, Wa
Jakobs, Julis J. Jr. S1c 2095 Webster Av, Bronx, NY
Jesionowski, Walter J. F1c 1848 Jerone Av, Schenectady, NY
Johnson, John W. Y3c Anquilla, Ms
Johston, Edward A. SM1c 131 Cresent Rd, San Ansemo, Ca
Justice, Glenard Cox Greenup, Ky
King, Raymond J. RdM2c 15 Hamilton St, Hyde Park, Ma
Kirby, Cecil E. Cox 531 Louis ST, Boyne City, Mi
Kitt, Lloyd L. Jr. BM2c 206 Bedford Rd, Battle Creek, Mi
Klinestever, James H. BM1c 544 S. 9th St, Columbia, Pa
Kreised, H.A. MoMM3c Raspeburdg, Md
Krimm, Gerald G. RM2c 161 W. 75th St, NY,NY
Krummel, R.F. BM1c Ellsworth, Wn
Lacey, Lemon SC3c Alpine, Tn
LaFrance, Albert O. F 2c 14 A Falmouth St, Lawrence, Ma
LeMaster, William F. SF3c 24th St. W., Huntington, WV
Lenehan, Francis W. BM2c 312 Helena St, Dayton, 4, Oh
Lent, Arnold J. SF3c 137 Chester St, Buffalo, NY
Lewis, Carl W. Bkr2c RFD 1, West Middletown, Oh
Lightsey, John P. Jr. CBM RFD 1, West Blocton, Al
Lundy, Russel E. EM3c Gaallaton, Mo
Manthey, Willie F. GM3c 330 E. 39th St, NY,NY
Marksian, Harley E. QM2c 717 Navahoe, Detroit, Mi
Matthews, Clarence I. F1c RFDF 4, Visalia, Ca
Matthews, Howard B. RM2c 126 Mohawk Av, Scotia, NY
McCabe, Edward M. MaM3c 3611 W. 82nd St, Chicago, Il
McGillivray, Norman F. WT1c 111 Union St, Brighton, Ma
Mc Grath, Robert J. RdM2c 50 Charlesgate E., Boston, Ma
McIntyre, Joseph B. S1c RFD 2, Loretto, Ky
McMahaon, William P. BM2c 200 Hamilton, Hartford, Ct
McNelis, William MM3c 822 Athens Av, Oakland, Ca
McPeters, Ray W. EM3c 6089 Fairchild St, Mt Clemens, Mi
Mears, H.E. CM1c Clinton, Il
Middleton, David J. St2c 232 St Philip St, Charleston, SC
Miller, D.H. S1c 5906 Meredith Dr, Des Moines, Ia
Mitchell, Michael G. S1c RFD 3, Coleman, Tx
Mobley, David, Jr. St3 309 W. Oak Av, Tampa, Fl
Montgomery, Earl EM3c Kennewich, Wn
Montoni, Fred J. BM2c 3234 N. Fox St, Philadelphia, Pa
Morris, W. MaM3c 1425 5th Sst, Berkeley, Ca
Motta, Anthony F. SK3c 577 Morris St, Albany, NY
Mullin, Walter E. S1c FRD 1 Jerome Id
Mueller, Donald S1c RFD 1, Lakeside, Ca
Musselwhite, G.C. s1c RFD 1, West, Ms
Nash, William J. PhM1c 501 W. Central St, Nokomis, Il
Neralich, J. MM1c 6216 S. Nagle Av, Chicago, Il
Noonan, R.F. MM3c 1951 West Blvd, Culver City, Ca
Osenga, Leonard A. F1c 526 N. 53rd St, Milwaukee, Wn
Overmyer, C.E. SM2c Hunters, Wa
Parker, J.R. RM3c 926 4th St, National City, Ca
Parker, R.L. QM3c 48 Channing Av, Portsmouth, Va
Pee, G. StM1c RFD 1, Mullins, SC
Penrose, William H. MM3c 699 Crestview Av, Akron, Oh
Petty, L.A. MoMM3c Berwin, Md
Pietila, Leo A. F1c 111 Vley Rd, Scotia, NY
Porter, Thomas, Sr. St3c N. Church St, Union SC
Price, Alberrt N. GM3c 320 W. Breckinridge St, Louisville, Ky
Ramos, Francis C. F2c Pixley, Ca
Rasmussen, Donald J. RT1c McIntosh, Mn
Reed, Charles W. Jr. Ck3c 731 E. Jacobs St, Louisville, Ky
Reed, Donald L. MoMM2c 170 Ford St, Mansfield, Oh
Reeshowy, Elmer J. S1c 216 Ashland Av, Detroit, Mi
Renn, Lester B. SF3c 39 S. 4th St,fs Shamokin, Pa.
Robbins, James A. Sr. CM3c 11 Grady St, Douglasville, Ga
Robinson, Francis R. EM3c 802 Stockdale St, Flint, Mi
Roberts, Charles E. SF3c Lavonia, Ga
Rockovich, Joseph G. Cox 241 W. Green St, West Hazelton, Pa
Rogers, James K. S1c 13337 E. Jefferson, Detroit, Mi
Rogers, William S. SK3c RFD 1, Timberlake, NC
Rone, Hubert V. Y3c Ethel, Ms
Roper, Leon C. Bkr3c RFD 1, Canton, Ga
Rosenthal, M EM2c 3411 Holmes Av, Baltimore, Md
Rude, Gene T. EM3c 1001 Elm St, Wisconsin Rapids, Wn
Russell, Joe W. Sm3c RFD 1, Winona, Ms
Russell, Kenneth M. Cox Glenville, NC
Rygelski, John H. S2c 143 William St, Plains, Pa
Sain, Jacob C. SSML3c RFD 1, Catawba, NC
Samsel, Joseph F. SC3c 654 Minor St, Reading, Pa.
Sanidas, George T. F1c 256 N. 2nd St, Memphis, Tn
Sapp, Glen E. SK3c RFD 1, Kernersville, NC
Sargent, E.J. SM1c 1814 E. Yale, Phoenix, Az
Schardt, Cloyde H. S1c FRD 1, Drumright, Ok
Schooley, F.K. B2c 857 Hamlet St, Columbus, Oh
Scutt, Willard G. S1c 144 E. Carey St, Plains, Pa
Senters, Glen S. MM3c 2116 Pelham Av, Baltimore, Md
Sherrill, Roy P. S1c RFD 1, Stony Point, NC
Sibert, Ralph S. MoMM2c Laura, Oh
Simants, Robert F. S1c 702 W. 8th Sst, North Platte, Ne
Simcox, Clyde J. S1c RFD 1, Bristol, Va
Singley, Leroy S2c 317 Kidder St, Wilkes-Barre, Pa
Slick, Charles O. S1c 79 Madison Av, Hagerstown, Md
Slosson, Roswell T. GM2c 21338 Karl, Detroit, Mi
Small, Ferd G. F2c RFD 1, Macedonia, Oh
Smith, Monroe F2c 3133 Rochameau, Bronx, NY
Smith, Richard BM1c Chandler, NC
Smith, Sstanley M. S2c 1244 N. Front St, Philadelphia, Pa
Smoak, Benjamin Ck2c 209 Riberia St, St.Augustine Fl
Snelly, Leonard K. MoMM2c 14205 Tuland, Cleveland, Oh
South, Howard W. B3c 720 E. Grolee St, Opelousas, La
Sprecher, William P. SM2c 18 Fuller St, Montgomery, Al
Spriggs, Howard L. SC2c 107 Spring St, Charleston, SC
Standal, W.J. EM1c 4356 7th St. N.E., Columbia Heights, Mn
Starnes, James E. RdM3c RFD 1, Eden, Alabama
Staton, Robert L. StM2c 206 W. 133rd St, NY,NY
Stetler, Fern A. SK3c 701 S. Orange St, Sturgis, Mi
Stremel. Edward P. WT3c 3509 Wynkoop St, Denver, Co
Stupek, T.J. F1c 1023 N. Leavitt St, Chicago, Il
Surenda, Richard F EM3c 369 Olivia St, McKees Rocks, Pa
Swanson, John B. RT3c 3452 W. VanBuren, Chicago, Il
Swearingen, Norman V. F1c Drain, Or
Sweeney, Terrence E. CPhM 6716 37th Av. S.W., Seattle, Wa
Swetland, A.L. SF1c 606-1/2 Ingersoll Pl, So. Beloit, Il
Tabor, Burlie E. F2c RFD 2, Edfdidnburg, Tx
Taft, Robert D. F2c RFD 7, Yakima, Wn
Tamashunas, Edward F. MM3c 231 N. Railroad Av, Frackville, Pa
Tankersley, Leo V. F2c 200 Hampshire, San Antonio, Tx
Taylor, Frank A. QM1c 10 Norton Av, Ridley Park, Pa
Testerman, Edward F. Y3c 600 E. Main Sst, Rogersville, Tn
Thum, Karl B. FC2c 145 Jefferson St, Hartford, Ct
Thomas, Jack, Jr. StM2c 1023-1/2 Pavillion, Dallas, Tx
Thompson, Ivy S1c Platter, Ok
Tobin, Bernard RM2c 10 Rutgers Pl, NY,NY
Toczyl, Joseph, Sr. BM2c 9260 W. Calumet Av, Chicago, Il
Tokarski, Walter MM3c 137 Patton St, Springfield, Ma
Troxel, Herbert D. WT3c Osawatomie, Ks
USHER, THOMAS B. BM1C RFD 1, McColl, SC
Van Alstyne, Stanley F. MM3c 58 Lester Av, Ilion, NY
Vandercar, William J. F1c RFD 2, Gransevoort, NY
Vido, Louis C. Ss1c 3756 E. Congress, Detrroit, Mi
Volberding, Emil WE.A. MoMM3c 10907 N Makin Av, Portland, Or
Volovar, George L. Y1c 496 6th St, Shruthers,f Oh
Wall, T.M. S1c 6622 Winona Av, St. Louis, Mo
Walker, Tilmon J. S1c Canadian, Tx
Ward, John W. S1c 17th & Baltic Av, Virginia Beach, Va
Wa;tsdon, Orville F. WT3c 2727 Coker Avs, Knoxville, Tn
Webb, B.H. MoMM2c Thaxton, Ms
Weybright, Richard E. BM2c 7147 S. Eggleston, Chicago, Il
Weaver, James R. GM3c RFD1, Herdin, Ky
Wheeler, Robert H. BM2c 243 Reisinger Av, Dayton, Oh
Whitcombe, Donald A. EM2c 225 Earl Av, Lynbrook, NY
Yocom, Byron G. GM3c RFD 1, Loretto, Tn
York, Robert B. GM3c Mount Holly, NC
Zielinski, John S. SSMB3c 46 Mitchell St, Pittston, Pa


This record and account compiled and edited by Lt.jg W.E. Binet and E.R. Testerman, Y3c.


"0000-0400 Pre-commissioning Detail's Office located topside of Wing No. 3, Northwest Corner of Bldg. 1140, USNTS, Newport, RI. Crew quartered in Bldg. 1806; conditions normal." *


* First entry, Page 1 of the Quartermaster's Notebook, Vol. 1, USS CIRCE (AKA-25) logged at 0000 Monday, 23 October 1944.

AT 0601 13 November the USS Circe (AKA-25) got underway at Providence, RI, enroute to Boston, Ma.

On 23 November we steamed to Norfolk, Va, arriving on 25 November. This was the initial voyage for a large majority of our crew and needless to say, the rough water peculiar to the Virginia coastline disclosed hopes that it might be the last. Here we made a few trial runs in Chesapeake Bay and broke our gun-crews into efficient marksmen. On several occasions our attack boat crewmen staged maneuvers and reviewed tactics which had been taught them at Fort Pierce, FL.

Early on the morning of 12 December, while riding out a gale at anchor in Hampton Roads, Va, the USS LST 997 drifted down on us and damaged our starboard bow as well as the boats and davits on that side necessitating our return to Norfolk Navy Yard for repairs.

14 December, repairs completed, she set her course for the Panama Canal. After an uneventful voyage, the be-drilled crew made a most eventful liberty at Balboa, Canal Zone.

Underway again 21 December, we steamed to Pearl Harbor, T.H. arriving on 3 January 1945. We lay in Pearl Harbor until 23 January at which time we headed for Guadalcanal with Marine Corps Personnel and an extremely tender cargo of explosives. Our "Polliwogs" became "Shellbacks" on this run and the esteemed Davy Jones left his impressions on the tops and bottoms of the well-initiated trespassers of his briny dominion.

The heat of Guadalcanal upon arrival on 2 February, was a plague to all and continued to be such during the six weeks this ship shuttled back and forth between the Russell Islands, the Floridas and Guadalcanal.

While unloading gunpowder at the Government Pier, Tulagi in the Florida Islands on 6 February, sirens wailed, bells rang and men froze in their tracks despite the overbearing heat. Two words raced continuously through one's mind, "Fire-Explosives-Fire-Explosives."

The Duty Messenger's reflexes propelled him to the call board which indicated a tripped alarm in #3 cargo hold. Lt. W.H. Turner of Carthage Tn, double-timed from the Dental Office to the Quarterdeck, hatless, still wearing the dental-bib and mumbling incoherently due to a pre-extraction shot of novocaine, took his emergency station as Officer-of-the-deck, relieving Lt.jg W.E. Binet of Grand Rapids, Mn.

The content of the ship's cargo was known throughout the area. Such knowledge provided the Naval and Civilian Personnel on the beach with a heretofore undiscovered ability to instantaneously change its immediate surroundings despite the steep hillside, brush, loose gravel and an on the spot decision as to the course of exit.

Much to our relief the fact that no fire existed was disclosed by the crew's rapid investigation and slowly the tension eased back to normal.

On the morning of 19 February 1945, Chief Radioman Joseph A. Davidson USNR, died suddenly of a heart attack. The passing of this grand shipmate was exceedingly grieved by all.

During the period from 22 February to 14 March the invasion of Okinawa was staged and practiced in Savo Sound with many units of the Amphibious Forces participating. At this time we became attached to Transport Division Thirty-six, Transport Squadron Twelve, Group ABLE. TheCirce,combat loaded, sailed in convoy for Ulithi I. on 15 March.

Arriving at Ulithi I. on 21 March, we witnessed the arrival of the aircraft-carrier "Franklin" which was limping home for repairs after her much acclaimed and heroic encounter with Japanese bombs. It was here also, that we had our first "This is it" air raid. No enemy planes, however, ventured into the crowded anchorage.

On 27 March the Transport Squadron to which theCircewas attached, sailed from Ulithi enroute to Okinawa. The night before we arrived at our invasion station off Point Bolo, Okinawa, we heard "Tokyo Rose" remark, "Well boys, if you think you had a rough time at Iwo Jima, you may rest assured that the welcome mat is out for you at Okinawa." That same night produced a series of small raids by enemy planes of which two were shot down within our scope of vision.

The following day, 1 April, found us moving in, all boats in the water and standing by for the commencement of unloading operations.

The sea was comparable to the proverbial "millpond" and the clear blue sky was flecked with formations of friendly carrier based Avengers, Hellcats and Corsairs flown by the Navy and Marines.

Sleep became a thing of the past for the following six days. The raids were small at first but grew in intensity as the invasion proceeded. Two planes are claimed by theCirceas having been "splashed" by her guns but the confirmation of same would be difficult to establish.

When not at general quarters, all hands were working cargo, maneuvering the smoke boats, or manning boats filled with combat gear. Sandwiches and coffee were the only practical forms of sustenance and both were consumed wherever and whenever one had a free hand.

TheCirceproudly remembers that no casualties or damage of any kind were suffered by crew and hull during this first daring attack against the Japanese Home-Islands.

The period of tension immediately preceding this bold thrust by the forces of our Army, Navy and Marines against the island of Okinawa is lyrically portrayed by a gifted poet and member of our crew, Lyle Hilton, SK2c, USNR, of Albuquerque, NM who like the warrior poet of WW1, Joyce Kilmer, was inspired by the deeds of brave men and has dramatically noted his eloquent impressions that we may read and remember.

We respectfully take the liberty to include in our record this impressive and poetic account:

INVASION OF OKINAWA

Our convoy formed near Purvis Bay,
Our Orders read, "Get underway
On March Fifteenth and sail North-west,"
A zig-zag course is always best
When lurking subs are there abouts
To sink our ships then come and pounce
Like roving wolves upon their prey.
Thank God we thwarted them that day!

Six days and nights we sailed right through
Until we reached our rendezvous,
An island in the west Carolines
Where ship's men and planes combine
Before D-day to wield their might
On Okinawa in the night
Of April First in "45.
Our goal: not one Jap to survive.

Ulithi was the spot we met
To make our final plans and get
New orders when to start our might
In the direction of the fight,
As yet the boldest strike of all
Until this time as you recall.

D-day approached, then one bright dawn,
We hoisted anchor and we're on
Our way, four days remain
In which to travel and to gain
An inside entrance to the beach
Where landing craft and men must reach.

The last night of our journey claimed
A spot right in Ryukyus' chain.
Our convoy stopped just off the beach
Awaiting Zero-Hour to reach.
Like sentinels in the dark they stood,
Prepared to give their lives, their blood
To do the job ahead that day,
Exact the price, stern justice pay.
Avenge Pearl Harbor, was our decree.
That day will live in Infamy.

Each heart beat fast that Easter dawn.
Each muscle tense, each face is drawn.
Our guns belched forth a blast of fire,
Their tempo increased by the hour.
"Launch all boats" the Skipper cried,
Onto the beach and there abide
The orders to unload the gear;
We'll stand your guard and we'll be here
When you return, and may God speed
You in your task; Do not impede
The force unleashed today.
We're at G.Q. We're here to stay
Till Okinawa's ours and free
From warlords and their tyranny.

Lyle Hilton

Upon completion of unloading and having gathered in her energetic brood of small boats, theCircesailed for Saipan on the morning of 6 April. Here we received further orders to proceed to Pearl Harbor at which place we arrived on 22 April. At Pearl Harbor we were ordered to Maui Island of the Hawaiian group to practice in anti-aircraft and anti-torpedo boat tactics.

Five days later we returned to Pearl Harbor and loaded a number of passengers whose destination and necessarily ours became San Francisco California, at which port we arrived on 19 May.

The crew made the usual spectacular "Frisco Liberty" and nursed heavy heads until 27 May on which date the ship sailed out to Pearl Harbor. This time we reloaded in Honolulu Harbor and again happily set our course for the Golden Gate. TheCirceencountered very heavy weather on this run. The flying-bridge was intermittently wet-down by the spray from her bow and a few of her crew gave "their all" before that wonderful span was sighted on 15 June.

Another period of liberty in San Francisco, this time a bit subdued as a result of economic limitations, and we were again sailing Westward on 24 June bound for Eniwetok Atoll in the Marshall Islands. Here we discharged our cargo of gasoline soon after our arrival.

On 16 July we sailed to Kwajalein where we lay-to until 25 July, this time setting our course for Tinian Island in the Marianas to deliver relief crews to the B-29 bases there. 31 July found us at Saipan loading flight-weary bomber crews who had done so much to bring the Nipponese to terms.

TheCircesailed for Pearl Harbor on 4 August. Enroute, a group of the crew produced a show to entertain all hands. This offering was received graciously by the extremely appreciative audience on two separate occasions.

Arriving at Pearl Harbor on 13 August theCircemost happily witnessed the spectacular pyrotechnic display at night, that many will remember as Pearl Harbor's contribution to the celebration of Japan's surrender and the termination of World War II. The days immediately following the cessation of hostilities were spent in machinery repair and overhaul. Worn pumps were repaired or replaced by the efficient shops at this powerful Naval Base, and the entire ship was subjected to a thorough scrubdown and repainting fore and aft.

On 10 September at 0430 Lt. M.O. Peterson of 1160 Jefferson St, Muskegon, Michigan, passed the word for the ship's fire and rescue party to muster on the double at the gangway. The entire ship's company turned out to bear a hand with the portable pumps and rescue apparatus and to take active part wherever and whatever the needs may be. The Navy Yard signal tower flashed a request to us asking that we send a fire fighting party to a blazing pier not more than one half mile distant from our ship. Our signalmen upon receipt of this request had the pleasure to answer that our party was already at the scene of the fire with hoses and equipment. The fire was brought under control after two and a half hours of constant smoke-eating and fire fighting by our ship's crew in cooperation with two fire boats and a small group of yard firemen. For her part in quenching this potentially disastrous incendium the ship received a letter of high commendation from Rear Admiral E.W. Hanson, the Captain of the Yard, c citing the impressive readiness of the ship's emergency organization and the efficiency of operation exercised by that party. This party was under the direction of Lt.Comdr. J.W. Hirth, Lt.jg J.W. Loff, and Ens. Francis A. Gilson.

On 25 September, having loaded at Iroquois Point, Pearl Harbor, she steamed past the nets enroute to Okinawa. While underway our orders were changed and our ship was rerouted to Yokosuka, Japan. Enroute to Yokosuka, "Salty", a little doggie of many mixed bloods fell into a cargo hold. A fracture of the "port-quarter" ensued and all medical aid available was mustered to treat the injured. Lt.Comdr. R.W. Smith, MC , performed a major operation and it affords the writer much pleasure to report that the patient, having spent a few weeks in an ingenious plaster cast, has now fully recovered and is, at present, enjoying exuberant health.

TheCircearrived at Yokosuka on 8 October 1945. The crew battened down loose ends in preparation for the North-bound typhoon which had done so much damage at Okinawa. The storm, However, fizzled out west of our position and activity throughout the area assumed its normal tempo.

Liberty at Yokosuka allowed the crew its first contact with the Japanese. Souvenirs included: chopsticks, slippers, books and cards, little knick-knacks picked up here and there, and a few silk garments which some were able to buy with the yen which the crew was allowed to purchase from the Supply Officer, Lt.jg C.N. Zellers.

On 14 October, we moved up Tokyo Bay to Yokohama, where were transferred a group of passengers to our sister ship, USS Artemis (AKA-21). Upon completion of this transfer, we sailed on 18 October to Wakanoura, Honshu, Japan. We arrived at this stop on 20 October and delivered our cargo. Here, the crew enjoyed the liberty when offered, by taking in the sights in this unbombed city. Purchases made in this city, were fine souvenirs of Japanese handiwork. Much lacquerware was available and a few choice kimonos were purchased.

We sailed from the Wakanoura Wakayama area on 24 October and steamed for Hiro Wan, near Kure, at which place we arrived on 25 October. We were able to secure Japanese rifles for the entire crew through the efforts of our Commanding Officer, and for the following week, the crew's off-hours were taken up in dressing down these prized weapons for the long dreamed of postwar deer hunting. Every member of the crew was able to obtain at least one complete "shootin' iron" and the tales of what uses it could be put to staggered many an imagination.

On 31 October, our ship departed for Nagasaki, Kyushu. Mines were the predominant worry to the ship's crew throughout this area. Reports filtered about that a number had been seen in this area and as a consequence, a careful watch was maintained. We arrived at Nagasaki on 2 November 1945. The feature attraction, of course was the area devastated by the Atomic Bomb. All hands were struck by the fact that such destruction was the result of a single unit of this man made weapon. One description was, "This place looks like Minneapolis after a Legion Convention!"

From Nagasaki we sailed to Sasebo on 6 November 1945. At this great harbor, we were able to secure two ex-suicide boats. The engines were given a complete overhaul by A.H. Degges, CMoMM, and the hulls were cleaned up under the careful supervision of Lt.Comdr. R.W. Smith MC.

We also picked up some extra crew members, among them, RICHARD CURRY. (above sentence an addition)

14 November found us underway for Fusan, Korea, at which port we arrived the following day. Our cargo was unloaded; however, more was brought aboard in the form of kimonos and other items of Korean or Japanese origin.

16 November 1945 we proceeded to Jinsen, Korea, on the Yellow Sea. We anchored in the narrow channel at this port on 18 November. The remainder of our cargo was unloaded at this point and on 21 November we again set our course for Sasebo, at which port we arrived two days later. The hope that we would be ordered back to the United States to celebrate Christmas became first in the minds of the crew. We lay at anchor waiting for the various units of the Fleet to transfer personnel, eligible for discharge, to us that we may transport them, via the Magic Carpet, to the west coast of the United States.

On 3 December we received aboard a capacity load of passengers and with the arrival of our orders this date, we got underway- - destination San Francisco, California. This voyage proved to be extremely hazardous. The ship encountered a gale six days out of Sasebo and struggling through this treacherous seaway finally emerged four days later only long enough to batten down for another. At one time the ship experienced a roll to Port of forty-two degrees. Needless to say it is hoped that she is not subjected to rolls of greater intensity in the future.

The total number of miles that have slipped beneath theCirce'shull since her initial voyage from Providence, RI to Boston, Ma, barely a year ago, is not to the writers knowledge, however a close estimate as set down by Lt.jg J.P. Tom Irvin, establishes it to be 45,729 miles.

TheCirce'screw has changed to a great extent, not in its loyalty and fine efficiency, but rather in those names appearing on the current muster lists as compared with those filed in the ship's office on 10 November 1944. For those who shall not sail with her when she again sends the white spray flying under her bow, her days have been short on time, but long on pleasant memories.

What the future holds for our ship and crew depends on ensuing Naval policies. Since necessity demands that certain ships of the Auxiliary Fleet be decommissioned and turned over to peacetime pursuits, it appears doubtful that this trim ocean runner will again function under the auspices of Uncle Sam's First Line of Defense---the United States Navy.

The reward, hard earned by unceasing vigilance and the whole hearted cooperation and teamwork exercised by all hands, has made itself known in the outstanding fact that neither one single case of epidemic disease nor any occurrence whatsoever of serious casualty from any source has resulted, although this vessel has spent much time in tropical waters, in hostile areas and in disease infested ports.

The complimentary record of the USSCirceis best expressed in the recent words of her beloved "Old Man", Lt.Cmdr. Victor J. Barnhart, who proudly relates, "Yes, she's duck soup. She has very successfully carried out to the letter, on schedule and with no misadventures, all assignments, orders and responsibilities placed in her charge."


The following is an add on to the original chronicle since the writers left theCircein San Francisco:

After spending Christmas and New Years 1946 in and out of drydock at Hunters Point, San Francisco, theCircewas ordered to New York for decommissioning. Sometime in January we set sail with a skeleton crew, since most of the crew left ship in Frisco eligible for discharge.

The weather had been cool in Frisco but warmed considerably as theCirceproceeded South. In contrast to the last trip from Japan the ocean was smooth as glass with an array of aquatic inhabitants showing themselves. The work load was light, no pressure, and few if any orders, made the trip vacation like. We all had liberty in Panama, and after going through the Canal hit the rough Atlantic. As we continued North warm conditions gave way to cold. Arrival in New York found theCircecovered with icy sleet. That arrival was in February.

After spending about a month in a Brooklyn slip, we were ordered up the Hudson River to Newburgh, NY. At Newburgh we tied-up to a makeshift dock in a small, one or two ship, shipyard. Here theCircewas gutted and her hull sent to rest with hundreds of others tied up on different parts of the Hudson.


TABLE OF SAILINGS

DATE DEPARTED FROM TO DATE ARRIVED
1944
13 November Providence, RI Boston, Ma 13 November
23 November Boston, Ma Norfolk, Va 25 November
14 December Norfolk, Va Panama Canal 19 December
20 December Panama Canal Pearl Harbor 3 January
1945
23 January Pearl Harbor Guadalcanal, Soloman I. 2 February
4 February Guadalcanal Banika, Russell I. 4 February
5 February Banika, Russell I. Tulagi, Florida I. 5 February
8 February Tulagi, Florida I Purvis Bay, Fl. I. 8 February
21 February Purvis Bay Tetere, Guadalcanal 21 February
1 March Guadalcanal Staging in Savo Sound 1 March
8 March Maneuvers Koli Pt., Guadalcanal 8 March
9 March Guadalcanal Gavutu, Florida I. 9 March
12 March Gavutu Harbor Tetere, Guadalcanal 12 March
15 March Tetere Ulithi I., Carolines 21 March
27 March Ulithi I. Okinawa I., Japan 1 April
6 April Okinawa Saipan, Mariana Is. 10 April
11 April Saipan Pearl Harbor 22 April
6 May Pearl Harbor Maui I. 6 May
11 May Maui I. Pearl Harbor 11 May
12 May Pearl Harbor San Francisco, Ca 19 May
27 May San Francisco, Ca Pearl Harbor 2 June
7 June Pearl Harbor Honolulu 7 June
8 June Honolulu San Francisco, Ca 15 June
24 June San Francisco Eniwetok Atoll, Marshalls 11 July
16 July Eniwetok Atoll Kwajalein, Marshalls 17 July
25 July Kwajalein Atoll Tinian I., Marianas 31 July
31 July Tinian I. Saipan I., Marianas 31 July
4 August Saipan I. Pearl Harbor 13 August
25 September Pearl Harbor Yokosuka, Honshu, Japan 8 October
14 October Yokosuka Yokohama, Honshu, Japan 14 October
18 October Yokohama Wakanoura, Honshu, Japan 20 October
22 October Wakanoura Wakayama, Honshu, Japan 22 October
24 October Wakayama Hiro Wan, Honshu, Japan 25 October
31 October Hiro Wan Nagasaki, Kyushu, Japan 2 November
6 November Nagasaki Sasebo, Kyushu, Japan 6 November
14 November Sasebo Fusan, Korea 15 November
16 November Fusan Jinsen, Korea 18 November
21 November Jinsen Sasebo, Kyushu, Japan 23 November
3 December Sasebo San Francisco, Ca 20 December
1946
January San Francisco Panama Canal January
January Panama New York, NY February
March New York Newburg, NY March
About May: DECOMMISSIONED

Transcribed and formatted for HTML by Patrick Clancey