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:
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." *
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 OKINAWAOur 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.
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 |