Navy - Reports & Bulletins, May - December 1941

Navy: Reports and Bulletins: May-Dec. 1941 Last bulletin in this form. (to be BULLETIN 10 December, 1941 put in larger scale by Navy.) Naval Air Station, Sitka, Alaska, reports ex-avia- tor at Chicagoff Mines reported multi-motored planes passed over Chicagoff (Chichagof) Islands, Alaska, headed South at approximately 11:30 A.M. December 9. Army reports series of fires discovered at 7:30 P.M. 1 1/2 miles West of Port Angeles (South shore of Strait of Juan de Fuca (State of Washington, U.S.A.) in form of an arrow pointing South East toward Seattle and Bremerton). Cipher card taken from crashed plane referred to Aleut- ians as well as Hawaii and Midway area, QNI reports. All agencies of ,public information in United States requested December 8 by Maritime Commission to avoid publishing or announcing information of movements, position, cargoes, or destination of any merchant vessel in any waters. Air transport is desperately needed by the British in Libya MID reports from Cairo. Not less than 100 required, but only 10 are available. The British Army has failed to avail itself sufficiently of RAF assistance. The best conclusion one can draw is -1-S- - that it has had poor communication with the RAF and Moscow, is now controlled by the Soviet. the Army commanders have been unable to comprehend SEA OTTER trials, of the ship loaded, completed. The the full capabilities of air support. Board has returned and the report is being studied, A spokesman said the second phase of the Battle of the Secretary's Office reports. Libya, that of dealing with the German tank forces, A substitute bill introduced by Senator Radcliffe to has been very nearly finished; the German tanks have control the activities of radio communications service Vhad a very serious knock and have withdrawn West officers on ships of United States registry, was passed of the Bir el Gobi - Tobruk line", it is reported from December 8. In brief this prohibits employment of London. any radio operator aboard a merchant ship of United Because of the considerable S trength of the Russian States registry whose employment is considered detri- Air Force in the Rostov area, it appears that the mental to National Defense in the discretion of the Nazis do not have air superiority there, MID reports Secretary of the Navy. from London. German air operations on all fronts 4,000,000 rounds of .30 calibre service ammunition continue to be restricted by weather. This is be- was received recently by the Second Marine Division, lieved to account for the lack of effectiveness in as was 64,500 rounds of .50 calibre armor piercing the slowing of the Russian advance out of Rostov. ammunition by Marine Corps units at Pearl Harbor, The official German announcement that large-scale U.S.M.C. reports. operations must be postponed until spring and that First Army Maneuvers were attended by twenty-five additional advances around Moscow or the fall of Marine Corps Officers in the capacity of observers, that city are not looked for in 1941, is thought U.S.M.C. reports. by the British to be true, MID reports from London. All forging contracts for 16"/45 caliber heavy rifles The head of the British Russian Mission thinks that have been completed and all ship deliveries will be the air over this entire theatre, especially around met, the Bureau of Ordnance reports. Additional - 2 - - 3 - liners for regunning are on order. Scheduled Keel Layings reported by the Bureau of Ships: Ships Builder Date 1 Submarine Chaser Mathis Yacht Bldg. Co. 12/10/41 1 Submarine RUNN ER New York Portsmouth 12/8/41 Scheduled Launchings reported by the Bureau of Ships: Ships Builder Date 1 Coastal Minesweeper ROCKET Anderson & Cristofani 12/10/41 2 Destroyers DORAN New York, Boston 12/10/41 EARLE New York, Boston 12/10/41 2 Submarine Chasers Dravo Corporation 12/13/41 Mathis Yacht Bldg. Co 12/10/41 Scheduled Deliveries reported by the Bureau of Ships: Ships Builder Date 2 Coastal Minesweepers CONQUEROR Warren Fish Co. 12/12/41 ENERGY W.A. Robinson, Inc. 12/8/41 2 Submarine Chasers Defoe Boat & Motor Wks. 12/10/41 Peterson Boat Works 12/10/41 1 Submarine DRUM New York, Portsmouth 12/13/41 - 4 - 1 BULLETIN 9 December 1941 Two fishing trawlers PRESIDENTE ROCA and PRESIDENTE MITRE, said reliably to be owned by Japanese inter- ests although nominally by Compania Argentina Indus- trial Depesqueria, left Buenos Aires in apparent hast morning of December 9, a Naval Observer reports from Buenos Aires. Both ships sail under Argentine flag but crews said to be all Japanese except Argentine Captain for compliance with local regulations. Crews possible Nazi reservists. Both ships built in Japan and have cruising radius estimated at 15,000 miles. The Germans will shortly set un supply points for U- boats and commerce destroyers near and across from Florianopolis, Brazil, (approximately 400 miles South of Rio). Assistance will be furnished by motor boats of an athletic association, aided by landed proprietor on lower points on the river (including those in the vicinity of Joinville and Blumenau), by which an un- occupied island nearby will be stocked. The Chiloe group of islands, in Chile are being used for the same purpose, MID reports from Buenos Aires. The Germans are greatly put out by their inability - 1 - - s to take Moscow before now, after a complete attempt. Nagaevo; would be most useful to Japanese on account They are now committed to an effort to encircle the of present fuel shortage, ONI- reports. city or at least to sever rail connections to Mos cow Italy's oil stocksare believed to be virtually ex- from the North and South. The German failure to take hausted, and minimum import requirements to maintain Moscow has affected the German public adversely, and her war effort are estimated at 100,000 tons a month. the effect on both public and Army will be even more Deliveries from Rumania have dropped from 110,000 sprious if the city is not finally taken. The French tons in September to below 80,000 in October, and prisoners who are to be released as a result of the it is indicated that they will fall even lower, it recent Petain-Goering meeting are colored colonials, is reported from a Naval Observer in Italy. and will be used by the Germans in Libya, MID reports Digest of Officer Personnel on Active Duty (Dec. 6). from London. Line Staff Warrant Total Germans consider the outcome of the Libyan campaign 1. Regular Navy on Active Duty 7502 2277 2071 11850 of the utmost importance to future plans, MID reports 2. Retired Officers on Active Duty 1174 268 104 1546 from London. It is believed the Rostov defeat has 3. Reserve Officers on Active Duty 17322 4290 163 21775 already dislocated plans for operations, against the Total 25998 6835 2338 35171 British in the Middle East and for the Caucasus. as reported by the Bureau of Navigation. Authorities are explaining to the German people that A change in procedure for Lend-Lease was made effective the drive on Rostov was only a diversion and that December 1. In effect allocations are made en bloc defeat there was only an incident. to cover programs, or to cover emergency and non- J. C. FITZSIMMONS (U.S. Tanker, 6,716 tons), failing programmed items. Defense Aid. requisitions are entry into Nagaevo on account of ice, has been ordered furnished the Navy Department together with authority to proceed to Vladivostok to discharge. (Note: Ship to obligate funds and initiate procurement. This carries 70,000 barrels of motor gas for discharge at should expedite action on foreign requisitions by a - 2 - - 3 - matter of two or three weeks. At the same time the entire accounting system is switched to a requisition basis, so that eventually all defense aid expenditures can be matched against a foreign government receipt, it is reported by the Office of Budget and Reports. Three hundred and thirty-three (333) 20 mm Anti- aircraft machine guns have been shipped as of the end of November. Of this total 240 have been shipped from the American Oerlikon Gazda Plant, Providence, Rhode Island. (183 to the United Kingdom, 57 to the United States Navy) and 93 have been shipped from the Pontiac Division, General Motors Corporation, Pontiac, Michigan (56 to the United Kingdom, 37 to the United States Navy). For the month of December. the following deliveries are expected: American Oerlikon Gazda Corp., Providence, Rhode Island. 110 Pontiac Division General Motors Corp., Pontiac, Michigan. 100 Naval Ordnance Plant Centerline, Michigan. 10 it is reported by the Bureau of Ordnance. - 4- 4 - sensont to BULLETIN 8 December 1941 Preliminary computation of shipping losses, British, Allied and Neutral in November show only 121,000 tons, as compared with 243,000 in October, 378,000 in September and 181,000 in August. This November figure is the lowest since March 1940, ONI reports. Reported air damage to British Dockyards and ship- yards has been nil for some weeks, ONI reports. MID reports from Singapore, the major portion of the British air S trength is being launched into action as Singapore is made a target for Japanese air operations. An enemy landing has taken place at Kota Bharu (East Malay Peninsula) where severe action is beginning, as well as in the vicinity of Cape Kemassin. Commader-in-Chief Pacific has been informed of the location of NARUTO MARU (Japanese 7,149 tons) estimated position west-bound at 4 N 127.30 W and TERUKAWA MARU (Japanese 6,172 tons) at 17.30 N 178 E as of noon G C T December if on regular course and speed, ONI reports. Following Japanese dispositions as reported by a Naval Observer in Manila "are conservative" (1) - 1 - - Heavy concentration of Japanese aircraft at Taiwan Axis believed will employ submarines, submarine (Formosa) at Kaigi, Takao and Taichu airstations tenders and aircraft to screen and escort some (2) South China Air Force headquarters now in Saigon convoys across the Mediterranean, using fast trans- area with at least four groups of planes (3) Eight ports in direct daylight trips when possible. One Maru air-tenders in South China area estimated at such crossing reported successful, the Naval Attache Takao - 5, Saigon - 1, Sama - 2; "extensive oper- in Rome reports. Departure and arival points for ations may be imminent" and (4) AKAGI (Japanese Axis troops not yet known. Aircraft Carrier, 26,900 tons) is moving South Regular and reserve personnel of the U.S.M.C. on from Empire, now in Nansei area. December 1, was 61,666, and on December 6 was 62,115 Peru, in an attitude of "co-operation", has taken a gain of 449. steps to guard public and private properties with The Fourth U.S.M.C. Defense Battalion has completed Naval and Army units ordered to Talara for pro- movement from Cuba to Hawaii and movement has been tection of oil fields. Anti-Japanese demonstrations completed from Shanghai to Olongapo, P. I. by 796 expected, Naval Observer reports from Lima, Peru. officers and men of the Fourth Regiment as of De- In the Libyan campaign 7,500 Axis prisoners have cember 8, it is reported by the U.S.M.C. been munted by the British so far. In addition Seven strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts to the prisoners counted, many others have been were sttled during the week ending December 6.Qnly reported taken, it is reported from Cairo. three strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts Axis entered Libyan Battle with 387 tanks in the were still open and only three strikes were continu- nine-tons or over category of which the British ing on which information relative to Naval Defense report they have destroyed 184, MID reports from Contracts was not available, as of December 6. London. This is an adjustment of original British Progress is reported on many of the 220 research pro- jects ,now underway in the Bureau of Ordnance in co- estimates. - 3 - - 2 - operation with N.D.R.C., Co-ordinator of Navy Re- search, private and governmental research labora- tories. Each project is important, however, the following stand out: (1) Tests on Nylon fabric indi- cate it will be as desirable as silk in flare parachutes (2) Tests (10 rounds) of powder charges bagged with nylon "revealed no defects on firing" (3) All phases of rocket propellant program being expedited (4) Revised specifications for engine-start- er cartridges are under consideration. (5) Very favor- able reports have been received from Army Ordnance upon firing tests of 37 mm barrels made of seamless tubing (6) Work is contemplated for elimination of gunflash at night, in view of British experience (7) There are under procurement 20 mild steel barrels for 20 mm Oerlikon and 40 mm Bofors to test the possibility of using this material instead of nickel steel thereby freeing nickel (8) Substitution of steel bomb racks -coated with plastic on air craft for those of monel metal is expected to be successful. It will save monel metal which is critical and will reduce the weight 30%, which is vital due to the constantly increasing de- mands for equipment to be placed in air craft. - 4 - Confidential LLETIN 8 December 1941 Total Enlisted Strength, December 6 ...... 288,752 Fleet Reservists (Enlisted) on Active Duty ..... 9,872 Other Reservists II 11 19 13 .... 50,408 Retired Men Il II 18 18 .... 3,034 Total .... 63,314 Aggregate Enlistments (Last 24 hours) .... 197 Aggregate Discharges 18 If If .... 101 Gain .... 96 Naval Reserve Officers ordered to active duty for enforce- ment of neutrality and the strengthening of the National Defense within the limits of Peace-time authorities, as of December 6. Temp Ashore Character of Duty Ashore Afloat or Afloat Total Line Officers V-G Officers 2657 4149 - 6806 DE-V(S),D-V(S),E-V(S) 2231 252 1 2484 DE-F Officers 1 - - 1 Communication Officers 637 126 - 763 I-V(S) Officers 1288 5 - 1293 0-V(S) Officers 629 I - 629 L-V(S) Officers 70 - - 70 Probationary Officers 24 41 1 66 Merchant Marine 144 906 12 1062 Staff Officers CEC-V Officers 690 - - 690 Sup Corps Officers 1029 345 - 1374 MC & DC Officers 1613 237 - 1850 CC-V Officers 144 1 - 145 CHC-V Officers 75 12 I 87 Retired Officers, NR 43 3 - 46 Aviators (Instr) (Does not include A-V(N)1146 14 - 1160 A-V(N) Officers 1484 1667 - 3151 Res Off. from Approp. other than PS&T 98 - - 98 Total 14003 7758 I4 21775 Confidential and OJ theroric BULLETIN 4 December 1941 Unconfirmed reports in Rome indicate that Hitler has been shot, United States Naval Attache reports. Re- sults unknown but very reliable contact states entire staff German Embassy at Rome were kept on duty all last night, December 2-3, and not yet allowed to leave Embassy Building. USN Attache was unable to make appointments at Marine or Air Ministries and reports dinner engagement with German Naval Attache was cancelled by special messenger. Information is being treated with "great reserve" until further re- port is submitted. The British report (1) Two British cruisers with two destroyers on the evening of December 1 inter- cepted and sank one destroyer, one 8,000 ton tanker and one 6,000 ton merchant ship, all South-bound about 80 miles N.N.W. of Tripoli (2) on the even- ing of December 1st a British cruiser intercepted in the South Atlantic, a vessel of a bout 11,000 tons which scuttled herself on a warning shot being fired (3) The activities of the Russian Air Force over the last fortnight have been such as to indicate that - 1 - they have at least 1,000 aircraft operating to the ships in Japan, four of which - the BOGOTA, QUITO, South of Kursk (S.W.Soviet Russia), of which about RHAKOTIS and OSORNO - had successfully completed 50% are serviceable. Recent activities in the the trans-Pacific run after escaping from Chilean Southern Sector moreover have not been accompanied harbors. Note: ODENWALD's log shows transit of by any noticeable falling off in the scale of Pacific on course four hundred miles South of operations in other sectors. Hawaiian Islands instead of by way of Japanese Mandate The WEST CHETAC (United States 5,627 tons - 10½ knots) area, as had been suspected, ONI reports. reported by British overdue Capetown since November Edward R. Stettinius, Jr., advised Secretary Knox 22 is a United States Maritime Commission ship on December 3, that as of December 1, 1941, operated by Robin Line, Seas Shipping Company, $991,422,337 or 69% of the funds earmarked for the charterer. It is' not routed and is running in- Navy Department for all countries in the Second Lend- dependently from New York for Port Elizabeth. Due Lease appropriation had been allocated or was in the date confirmed by Maritime Commission, ONI reports. process of allocation and that he understood negoti- The Destroyer ALVISE DA MOSTO (1,628 tons "Navi- ations were under-way for an early allocation of gatori" Class), reported sunk, December 2, was the the remaining funds now to be made available. thirty-fifth Italian destroyer reported sunk during Information has been received from Commander, Sup- the war, cutting in half the known destroyer strength port Force, at Argentia, that flying conditions are of the Italian Navy, it is reported from London. b ecoming so unfavorable as to preclude the future Crew members of the MS ODENWALD (German 5,098 tons - operations of Navy flying boats in that area. It is 10½ knots) in San Juan say that Japanese Naval planned to provide amphibious airplanes at the Airplanes escorted the vessel for three days after earliest possible date, which can operate from shore, leaving Yokohama. Other than rubber, ODENWALD's the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. cargo had been transferred from five other German A despatch has been sent to the Fleet forces invit- - 2 - ing recommendations concerning Fleet needs for ad- ditional converted aircraft carriers, similar to the USS LONG ISLAND, now in service, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. It is planned that the Navy's first sea train, the KITTY-HAWK will transport two squadrons of inner patrol airplanes from San Pedro, to the Asiatic Station during the forthcoming month of January. Her sister ship, the HAMMONDSPORT will remain on the East Coast and be available for the transpor- tation of airplanes in the Atlantic area, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. Digest of Officer Personnel on Active Duty (Nov.29). Line Staff Warrants Total 1. Regular Navy on Active Duty 7502 2277 2071 11850 2. Retired Officers on Active Duty 1174 268 104 1546 3. Reserve Officers on Active Duty 17067 4246 164 21477 Total 25743 6791 2339 34873 as reported by the Bureau of Navigation Final arrangements have been completed by the Bureau of Ordnance for the training program for civilian inspectors at the Naval Gun Factory. Thirty men have reported for the current two-month's class. - 4 - I BULLETIN 2 December 1941 German supply ship sunk 700 miles South of the Is- land of St. Helena afternoon December 1 by British cruiser DORSETSHIRE, (9,975 tons). Indications from loaded boats in water when discovered that U - boats were in vicinity and about to replenish supplies, ONI reports. (mint) The lower classes of France have shown favor for the De Gaulle movement, but, denied communications, press, armaments and spirited leadership as they are, they can be welded into no integrated force. With this fact, one must recognize that the chance for planned insurgency is gone, MID reports from London. . There are no more than 20 Turkish vessels of approxi- mately 3,000 tons capacity in the Black Sea and an- other 20 of similar capacity in the Sea of Marmara that could be used to carry troops in case the Germans should be aided by Turkey, a Naval Observer reports. Spain's Foreign Minister, Serano Suner, strongly pro- Axis, has lost caste with Franco and the Spanish population. When the settlement comes, he will be sent to Italy as Ambassador, or, failing the accept- depart from Yokohana December 2 for San Francisco, ance of the Italian Government, he will be retired, ONI reports. VID reports from London, MID reports from CAIRO (1) the Axis has instituted Results of German-French parley at Wiesbaden, seat a supply service between Crete and Libya, using of Armistice Commission, as reported from MID in gliders towed by Junkers - 57's (2) Axis supplies Vichy are an follows: (1) Germany is permitted to at Bardia (Libya) are much larger than the British establish comunications across Tunisia to Gabes had guessed, hence British air attacks will be (Tunis) (2) The French are re-routing to Tunisia centered on this city (3) evidently the Italians 20,000 tons of fuel oil previously destined for Judged concentration of the British fleet in the Marseilles (3) By December 20, the French will make Mediterranean to be in preparation for an attack on an initial delivery of 22 155 n.m. howitzers to the the Italian mainland. This brought about the recall Libyan frontier (4) In return, an undetermined number to Italy on November 14 of the only Italian dive of French prisoners will be released, including bomber squadron in North Africa. All in all, the 10,000 North Africans trained in German propaganda Italian air Corps had no important hand in the Libya methods. It is observed the reported French con- operations. cessions to Germany lead directly to the Mareth Line, German troops and supplies are still moving through the main French fortification defense system against Italy in increased volume and large numbers of German invasion from Libya. planes are flying South, MID reports from Rome. NARUTO MARU (Japanese 7,149 tons) "departs" Tocapills British tank losses in Libya are figured to be be- (Chile), November 29 direct for Yokohama. This is the tween 50 and 60%, while German tank losses are last Japanese merchant vessel in Western Hemisphere, from 20 to 30%. The Germans are reported to be with none en route, a Naval Observer in Lina reports. greatly disturbed, however, for fear their tank re- However, TATUTA MARU (16,975 tons) is scheduled to serves will not prove sufficient. 2 - - 3 - The British Admiralty has requested that high priority be accorded to deliveries of Grumman Fighter and Tor- pedo planes. It is particularly unfortunate that the Navy recently lost the prototype of the torpedo plane which caught fire in the air, crashed and was destroy- ed. The flight personnel parachuted to safety, it is reported by the Bureau of Aeronautics. The ODENWALD was salvaged in order to prevent her from sinking. The Navy has not asserted the belligerent right of capture since we are not a belligerent, the Judge Advocate General's Office reports. Priorities: Deliveries of materials have been ex- pedited by the Bureau of Ordnance in twenty-three instances through raising the priority ratings. The ordnance delivery dates vary from two weeks to five and one-half months. This is a part of an intensive program to speed up the delivery of raw materials and plant facilities, Public Hearings by the House Naval Affairs Investi- gating Committee (Congressman Vinson). will not begin until after the Holidays, according to latest infor- mation available to the Navy, the Clearing House reports. - - BULLETIN 1 December 1941 Total Enlisted Strength, 30 November ..... 287,105 Fleet Reservists (Enlisted) on Active Duty ..... 9,887 Other Reservists II II II " ..... 49,498 Retired Men If If 11 = ..... 2,992 Total ..... 62,377 Aggregate Enlistments (Last 24 hours) .... 217 Aggregate Discharges If If 11 .... 132 Gain .... 85 Naval Reserve Officers ordered to active duty for enforce- ment of neutrality and the strengthening of the National Defense within the limits of Peace-time authorities, as of November 30. Temp Ashore Character of Duty Ashore Afloat or Afloat Total Line Officers V-G Officers 2726 4074 - 6800 DE-V(S),D-V(S),E-V(S) 2211 250 - 2461 DE-F Officers 1 - - 1 Communication Officers 634 127 - 761 I-V(S) Officers 1261 5 - 1266 0-V(S) Officers 627 - - 627 I-V(S) Officers 67 - - 67 Probationary Officers 25 44 1 70 Merchant Marine 144 895 14 1053 Staff Officers CEC-V Officers 686 - - 686 Sup Officers 1024 345 - 1369 MC & DC Officers 1606 237 - 1843 CC-V Officers 116 1 - 117 CHC-V Officers 75 12 - 87 Retired Officers, NR 42 3 - 45 Aviators (Instr) (Does not include A-V(N) 1140 16 - 1156 A-V(N) Officers 1299 1670 - 2969 Res Off. from Approp. other than PS&T 99 - - 99 Total 13783 7679 15 21477 BULLETIN 1 December 1941 The losses in East-bound trans-Atlantic convoys were in the nature of 2.0%, during the period from the end of November, 1940, until the beginning of October, 1941, it is revealed by the records of the O.N.I. No figures are available from January 1, to October 1, 1941. General Anders, commanding Polish Forces in Russia, as reported by M.I.D. in London, believes: (1) major reasons for Russian weakness are economic troubles such as lack of civilian needs and poor railroad situation, plus stoppage of Volga shipping (2) stabilized battle lines have slowed* Soviet internal degeneration. He reports: (1) strong Siberian re- inforcements are now in position around Moscow and Siberian forces are once more traveling through Kui- byshev by train (2) east of the Volga new outfits are being activated (3) big reserve force is supposed- ly being organized by Voroshilov (Marshall, organizing reserves); (4) Soviet forces are reported superior to Germans in experience and material for winter combat. Other M.I.D. reports from Polish sources - 1 - "believed creditable" include: (1) Soviet defense Cruiser, 5,400 tons) and SCHLESIEN (German Training- of Moscow is well planned, with Far Eastern troops Ship, ex-Battleship, 13,040 tons) at Kiel, November being used as reserves (2) German probable effort 29, reconnaissance showed. SEYDLITZ (german Heavy to encircle Moscow will fail due to lack of sufficient Cruiser, 10,000 tons) located at Bremen and forces for the operation (3) Soviet units are better SCHLESWIG HOLSTEIN (German Training Ship ex-Battle- equipped for and more able to endure winter fighting ship, 13,040 tons) at Hamburg. A British submarine than the Germans (4) Voroshilov's effort to organize attacked three cruisers and several destroyers seventy his new army in rear areas is handicapped by shortage miles S. S.E. from Taranto (Italy), three hits of heavy equipment and transport. claimed, a Naval Observer reports from London. Vladivostok Courrier arrived in Kuibyshev on the German ship at Yokohama previously unidentified be- 22nd, carrying second class mail dated May through lieved to be OSORNO, displacement about 9,000 tons, August, en route sixteen days, a. Naval Observer in a Naval Observer reports from Tokyo. It is not armed Kuibyshev reports. Courrier reports all American at present. It recently docked, loading supplies and tankers going Magadan (West Coast Sea of Okhotsk) fuel. Indications departure near future, probably and believes Vladivostok will be kept open all winter to carry rubber to France. for Soviet shipping only. Activities of fighters in Libya have been reduced Russia's four largest Black Sea tankers, loaded with to a minimum in anticipation of moving the fighter oil for Turkey and escorted by nine Russian war ships, wing to Gazzala and Tobruk, in order to operate arrived at Turkish docks November 29. The ships against the landing grounds and road toward Benghasi, totaled 28,000 tons. M.I.D. reports from Cairo. Headquarters of the R.A.F. TIRPITZ (German Battleship, 35,000 tons), LUTZOW will move with the wing. The plan which the Army (German Heavy Cruiser, 10,000 tons), EMDEN (German and the R.A.F. had for close support has failed, for - 2 - 3- the organization had no unified command. Deliveries of aviation ordnance equipment have im- proved considerably, the Bureau of Ordnance reports. Deliveries of bomb racks and bomb-rack release handles, however, are behind schedule, due to the shortage of Monel Metal. Ordnance is preparing a priority list for distribution of bombs and future loading schedules for bomb cases will be based upon this list. The TNT- supply situation is improving, and pre- parations for the arming of merchant vessels are being continued, the Bureau of Ordnance reports. The commanding officer of the United States Naval Air Station, Trinidad, was detached on November 23, 1941. He will report on or about December 1, to' the Bureau of Aeronautics as head of the Training Di- vision, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. Six strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were settled during the week ending November 29. Seven strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were still open and six strikes were continuing.om which information relative to Naval Defense contracts was not available, as of November 29. - Confidential BULLETIN 28 November, 1941 A decision in theWestern Desert should come within the next week (Nov. 26 - Dec. 3). There has been a. high armored casualty rate among both the Axis and Imperial forces. British intention on the follow-up of this campaign is to annihilate the Axis element and go on to occupy the entire North African coast- line, the British War Office has stated. to M.I.D. Churchill told M.I.D. he felt deep consequences lie in the result of the Battle of Libya. For one thing, the Japanese will continue their policy of hesitation until they can judge the direction of the fighting in Libya and in Russia. From information available in O.N.I. there have been no sinkings along the North Atlantic Sea route by Axis submarines since November 9, 1941. Sinkings during November along this route were as follows: November 3 - 3 5 - 1 7 - 1 9 - 1 Total To Great action in all sectors is reported from Kuibyshev. Fighting has become a war of extermi- 1. nation without quarter. American and British planes Additional convoys are due November 29th and December have gone into action on Moscow front. 7, a Naval Observer reports. Cold weather has hit Russia earlier this year than usu- Six aerodromes in South French Indo-China are reported al. Temperatures in same-districts-aro already as low ready for use, There is a noticeable movement of as 22° below zero, it is reported from Moscow. aircraft to French Indo-China and Hainan, the strangth 7-ship convoy arrived Archangel included Panamanian at present being approximately 200 in each place. The vessels COCLE and EL CAPITAN. Tanker SAN AMBROSIA Japanese have requested the use of four additional moored Molotovsk, below Archangel on "estern mouth landing-grounds in North French Indo-China with per- of River Dvina. It was aided by breaker STALIN. mission to effect improvements. At Saigon there is Remainder at Bakaritsa, railhead opposite Archangel, abnormal transport activity and indications of similar were aided by LENGN and two auxiliary breakers. Breaker activity at Haiphong: LITSK is due within the next few days. According to The Navy Department has proposed a bill to waive Captain Papanin, Arctic authority who is in charge during the present emergency, the restrictions against of keeping the port open all winter, it is the intention employment of non-citizens on public works in the to keep Bakaritsa open until the middle of December, Territory of Hawaii (Sec. 105, Hawaiian Organic Act), at which time seven berths Ekonomia, at Northern mouth to allow the employment of "nationale of the United of river and five cargo berths at Molotovsk will be States" at the Pearl Harbor Navy Yard and on national ready. KRASSIN (Russian icebreaker, 8,700 tons) in defense contracts in Hawaii. The proposed bill has due to leave shortly via canal for duty at Archangel. been referred to the Committee on Territories of the Bakaritsa is much improved with space for eleven ships House of Representatives. As originally proposed to with tracks along entire quay and six railway cranes of the Bureau of the Budget, this bill contained a section six tons. A Soviet trawler engaged and sunk a sub- to waive the immigration laws so as to allow bringing marines "off" the entrance to White Sea on November 25. additional Filipinos into Hawaii. Upon recommendation 2: 3. of other interested departments this section was eliminated and the Navy Department agreed to rely upon exercise of the authority of the Department of the Interior under the Act approved March 24, 1934 (48 Stat. 462), to allow the immigration of Filipinos into Hawaii "on the basis of the needs of industries" there. In the letter to the Speaker the Navy set forth the fact that a serious shortage of unskilled labor exists in Hawaii and that sufficient Filipinos can be obtained and brought to Hawaii in naval vessels, the Judge Advocate General's Office reports. The Purchase Division of the Bureau of Supplies and Ac- counts has kept pace with the expanding material needs of the Navy by the increase of both officer and civilian personnel to meet the demands of the emergency. Since May 1, 1940, officer personnel has been increased from 4 to 21, or 425%, among whom are many reserves of special- ized experience, which is taken advantage of in their respective assignements. Civilian personnel, during same period has been increased from 80 to 308, or 285% Assistant Secretary Gates has just returned from inspection of Naval Aviation Facilities in the Norfolk area. BULLETIN 27 November, 1941 British now outnumber the Axis in Libya by two planes to one due to considerable. increase in planes in re- cent months, MID reports. However, the Axis can re- inforce the Libyan front to whatever extent it is willing to withdraw aircraft from other operations. Moreover, Axis planes in the Dodecanese, Crete and Greece tend to enhance Axis offensive air capabilities and therefore increase the British defensive problems. 1,567 British aircraft now are in the Middle East area and it is estimated that 773 Axis aircraft are now in Niddle East area. (1) Under German leadership, Itlaian troops are show- ing 100% improvement over the campaigns of last winter (2) The performance of American M-3 tanks has been ex- tremely satisfactory (3) The two Axis powers have been calling for aviation supplies with some anxiety. The Germans are also urgently requesting anti-tank guns and ammunition, it is reported from a reliable source in London. The Italian merchant fleet available in the Medi- terranean at the war's start has been approximately 2. 3. cut in half by sinkings. The merchant fleet at "the installed in all escort ships as rapidly as possible war's start" does not, however, include an unknown since main means of submarine detection will be RADAR number of French ships made available to the Italians plus sight and hearing, a Naval Observer in London by Germany's requisitions. reports. A new passenger and freight.air service links Dakar The installations under the original Kingboard Program, with Conakry, Abidjan, Conotou and Niamey (Dahomey), covering the arming of Navy vessels and installation it is reported from Vichy. The greater part of this of splinter protection is reported by the Bureau of route is over water to avoid crossing British colonies. Ships to be about 75% complete. This will extend present Air France service now A conference between high officials of the Navy terminating at Dakar and also will provide Vichy with Department and a delegation of British officers observation of ship positions in British area around has been a rranged for November 28 by Admiral Reeves Freetown, ONI reports. at the request of the British Admiralty Supply Air attacks on merchant vessels have decreased, due Representative. Advisability of constructing vari- to British resistance and to German lack of personnel ous types of small craft for landing tanks on beaches and equipment, it is reported from London. and also a special type of t ransport vessel which There is a report of some credibility in London that could carry the tank landing craft to within range there is a well-advanced move to oust Franco from Spain. of their objective will be discussed. The British Best anti-submarine methods are governed by conditions have already requested under Lend-Lease the con- at the-time, the head of the British Anti-submarine struction of four of the special transport vessels warfare believes. The merits of hydrophone - echo and it is probable that they will shortly request ranging - detection, under some conditions, especially construction in this country of several hundred of during darkness and periods of low visibility are the tank landing craft. Studies have recently been recognized. He considers it vital that RADAR sets be made of the requirements of our own fleets in con- nection with tank landing craft and TLC carriers. One purpose of the conference November 28 is to ascertain whether certain "common" types can be de- signed which will fulfill the requirements of both our own and the British Navy, the Secretary's Office reports. The next Lend-Lease report is being made up by the Lend-Lease Administration which has called on the Navy for the following types of information (1) de- scription of the repair of ships (2) status of ships under construction (3) naval equipment other than ships being furnished (4) other services such as train- ing of pilots (5) explanation and general adminis- tration. In view of the fact that this report will have an unrestricted distribution, the information to be supplied will be of general nature in the interest of security, War Procurement Planning reports. A battery has been supplied by the Navy and has been installed by the Maritime Commission on one Russian vessel which is about ready to sail. Batteries for three large Russian ice breakers have been assembled and are awaiting transportation to Archangel for installation, War Procurement Planning reports. BULLETIN 24, November 1941 Total Enlisted Strength, 24 November ..... 285,393 Fleet Reservists (Enlisted) on Active Duty ...... 9,882 Other Reservists II II II If ...... 48,399 Retired Men Il If # # ...... 2,952 Total ...... 61,233 Aggregate Enlistments (Last 24 hours) ..... 222 Aggregate Discharges # # # ..... 148 Gain ..... 74 Naval Reserve Officers ordered to active duty for enforce- ment of neutrality and the strengthening of the National Defense within the limits of Peace-time authorities, as of November 24. Temp Ashore Character of Duty Ashore Afloat Or Afloat Total Line Officers V-G Officers 2776 4056 - 6832 DE-V(S),D-V(S),E-V(S) 2191 248 - 2439 DE-F Officers 1 - - 1 Communication Officers 628 129 - 757 I-V(S) Officers 1247 6 - 1253 O-V(S) Officers 629 - - 629 L-V(S) Officers 64 - - 64 Probationary Officers 26 43 1 70 Merchant Marine 142 893 11 1046 Staff Officers CEC-V Officers 687 - - 687 Sup Corps Officers 1023 347 - 1370 MC & DC Officers 1615 234 I 1849 CC-V Officers 114 1 - 115 CHC-V Officers 75 13 - 88 Retired Officers, USNR 41 2 - 43 Aviation Officers(Instr) (Does not include A-V(N)1129 12 - 1141 A-V(N) Officers 1270 1578 - 2848 Res.Off.from Approp. other than PS&T 100 - - 100 Total 13758 7562 12 21332 BULLETIN 24 November, 1941 A total of 4,210,000 dead weight tons were imported into the United Kingdom during October. This is the largest monthly total imported since April and re- presents one of the most satisfactory months since the opening of hostilities. According to British Sources, Axis forces in Libya have long been lacking in supplies, mostly for German units. Sinkings of supply ships by the British Navy lately have made the situation worse. Authorized German Military quarters have admitted that the British offensive in North Africa constitutes "an extremely strong attack which cannot be regarded as a purely propaganda affair". German air force reported by the British as not with- drawing aircraft from the vicinity of Moscow as rapidly as expected. They state necessity for the continued support of ground forces and the activity of the Russian air force do not permit the release of German planes. 1500 German aircraft, the greater part of fighters, are coming to Southern Italy within the next two weeks to 2. 3. attempt to wrest control of Central Mediterranean from Submarine locations are again reported in the Western British and stop bombing of Italian cities. Most of Atlantic. Three or four are thought to be about 250 the planes would be from the Russian fronts according miles East of Cape Race. There are two 150 miles South to a young Italian General Staff Air Lieutenant who of Iceland and several in the central belt in Longitude also reports Germans have taken over complete control 30 W. The aggregate number is the low of 15. and command of Italian air force. This was demanded HMS Submarine UTMOST reported she attacked November after the sinking of the big convoy by the British 21 three cruisers in company with three destroyers when many German soldiers drowned November 8. near Straights of Messina (Sicily), near Southern end, Two Turkish Generals recently returned from Russia re- probably sinking one cruiser. ported by British to believe: (1) Axis planned a brief Reliable sources in Rio de Janeiro report general two-months offensive, thus making the gathering of sabotage activities may be expected any day. This is foodstuffs an easy matter (2) inability to accomplish interpreted to mean in South America generally. British this is thought to have ruined their chances of victory Consulate in Rio is redoubling vigilance in British and over the Russians (3) Axis forces are in bad shape allied ships while in port there. because of inadequate supply of vehicles, insufficient Acute shortage of rubber in Germany, estimated by protection of their soldiers from the weather, not British at 21,000-ton deficiency for this year, may be enough food and wells poisoned by Soviet forces. good reason for more efforts to get rubber cargoes An assault on Cyprus by parachute troops is impending through the blockade from the Far East. If Berlin suc- it is claimed in Berlin. ceeds in forcing action through Vichy, ships would British air attacks were made on the railway center and likely try the plan of rounding Cape Horn, ONI reports. gas works at Naples during the night of November 19-20. As a part of its preventive medicine program, the Also attacked were oil tanks, barracks and factories Bureau of Medicine and Surgery is preparing a series at Brindisi, Tripoli, Benghazi and Messina. of one-page leaflets to be made available to officers 4. as a means of acquainting them with the conditions they will meet in certain climates. "General Facts on Tropical Hygiene" is the subject of one of the leaf- lets and separate leaflets will be prepared on each of the new bases. The need was discovered by the recent survey when it was found that officers were renting houses which were not mosquito-proof, children were playing barefooted on ground infected with hookworms, officers were fishing in streams infected, during the middle of the day only, with a serious tropical disease,et The aircraft complement of the HMS INDOMITABLE is at present. at East Field, Naval Air Station, Norfolk, where the British pilots are maintaining their flying fitness while the parent vessel is in the Norfolk area incident to the recent grounding accident, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. Three strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were settled during the week ending November 22. Nine strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were still open and five strikes were continuing on which information relative to Naval Defense Contracts was not yet available, as of November 22. BULLETIN 21 November, 1941 Pronounced increased German aviation and submarine activities in Italy and Mediterranean designed for greater control of that area are reported by a Naval Observer. Large concentration German combat planes in Sicily is underway. Heavy air attacks of Malta and British Naval forces are contemplated. Increased German air operations at Grosseto (Italy) and Bari, (S.E. Italy) airfields also reported. Action against British North Africa believed by Ministry contact essential inside 3 months or Axis withdraw necessary. Italian anti-aircraft defense reported not effective; it continues to remain subject to the Ministry of Interior. The fact that Italian pursuit planes have not succeeded in protecting cities is said to be reason for ousting Under-Secretary of Air. His successor, General Fouriger, is a specialist in pursuit aviation. It is believed he will relegate bombers to second place in favor of the manufacture and use of pursuit planes. Naval Observer in Rome reports "as direct from German Aide to General. Rommel". (1) 7 of 10 ships sunk in British attack on Italian convoy November 8 contained 2. 3. German troops (2) Germans not in position to support needed to stop the tanks. All are fulfilled in the Italians in Africa (3) Arrival of German submarines airplane which carries the large bore cannon and 50 far in Mediterranean confirmed (4) German High Command in that alone he states. considers victory over Russia hopeless but hopes for Russian new anti-tank measure reported proving most a draw with war finished at end of 1942 (5) Germans effective and has accounted for more enemy tanks than desperate for oil and fear they cannot reach Baku in the normal anti-tank artillery. Carefully picked men time, as Grozny (N. Caucasus region, Soviet Russia) remain concealed until tanks approach; then a quick fields are not enough (6) German attack weakening due attack is made with high explosive grenades and flaming to necessity for additional troops in Balkans and "Molotov cocktails" (gasoline-filled bottles). France (7) Definitely no invasion of England (8) Russians reported getting only one half of the efficien- High Command believes no break with United States cy out of British tanks because tank crews do not care prior to June and will endeavor to avoid incidents. to learn about radio, will not set gun sights correctly Amount of aray equipment and personnel moved through and have other "whims". the Brenner Pass during September and October may There is ample evidence that the Japanese are construct- have been enough for eight German Divisions of the ing a Naval Base at Camranh Bay (Indo-China), it is light type according to an unconfirmed MID report from reported by O.N.I. Rome. It is known that eight German Colonial Divisions Approximately 14,000 Japanese troops, 20 field pieces have left Germany recently. and 80 tanks are reported to have arrived in Shanghai The Russians have discovered a way to stop German by rail from Nanking during the past five days. They mechanized columns, Peter Masefield, air correspondent are probably reinforcements to be dispatched into Indo- of the London Sunday Times states. It is the large China. bore, shell firing cannon from. the air. Speed, mobility The first six of the folding wing Grumman fighter plenes and weight of fire are the three essentials have been delivered to Naval Air Station, Norfolk, 4. Virginia, to custody of British there who are going to train six pilots with the idea of providing fighter protection for the HMS FORMIDABLE and the ILLUSTRIOUS when they depart from the Norfolk area, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. Admiral Hooper has been requested by Senator Radcliffe to furnish a substitute draft of a bill for the one which passed the House, H.R. 5074. This latter bill had for its purpose the control of the activities of subversive - individuals in the radio communications service of ships. Senator Radcliffe's substitute, in its present state, is to merely require the Maritime Commission, upon recom- mendation from the Navy Department, to remove any radio - operator from a specific ship or from a specific ship for a specific voyage. This places the entire responsi- bility on the Navy Department rather than the 7-man board of the Federal Communications Commission. As far as is known, it is not contemplated to provide for any appeal from the Maritime Commission's action or the Navy Department's recommendation. It is to be noted that such a draft should, and no doubt will, include the Secretary of Commerce with respect to ships under his jurisdiction, Judge Advocate General's Office reports. BULLETIN 19 November 1941. Admiral Hart plans evacuate Marines from Shanghai in PRESIDENT MADISON and HARRISON scheduled to depart Shanghai 27 and 28 November. Damage to the Royal Dock-yards and Private Shipyards by air the week ending November 14 was nil, it is reported from London. There is a rumor to the effect that the Germans will transfer to, Bulgaria approximately 1,000,000 of their soldiers either in December or at a future time if conditions in Russia will allow it, the purpose being to threaten Turkey or merely to provide winter quarters. For this reason, it is said that stocks of food sup- plies are being built up by the Bulgarians for the German troops. Baron Von Papen indicated in an interview in Ankara yesterday that Germany proposes to unite Europe and overwhelm Russia, "pacifying" any dissident sections by starvation and extermination of opposition. He admitted that Germany can expect no more than 20% grain harvest from the Ukraine next year, and little in the way of industrial or economic benefits from 2. 3. Russia for two or three years. Budget, the Judge Advocate General's Office reports. In connection with the boarding of the ODENWALD Difficulties are still being encountered in the pro- (German 5,098 tons) November 6, our records for the curement of steel, aluminum, magnesium and Monel metal. Pacific show seven 3 high-speed 5 to 9,000 ton German Through the co-operation of the Office of Production ships "at sea and/or locations unknown", any one of Management serious delays in production have been avert- which might be occupied in attempting a run from the ed except in the case of Monel metal, which has inter- Far East for Europe. In addition to these seven ships, fered with the production of smoke screen generators there are six Nazi ships last reported under Jap and bomb racks, the Bureau of Ordnance reports. charter and operating in Jap waters which might equally The Bureau of Ordnance reports: Deliveries of steel, well be used for blockade-running purposes. Note - especially in small lots, are becoming more and more Fleet has data and descriptions. difficult to obtain, but in practically all cases the The Pay Bill, S. 2025, now has a dual status. The sub- Bureau has, with the co-operation of the Office of committee of the Senate Military Affairs Committee, of Production Management, been able to avoid delays in the which Senator Johnson of Colorado is chairman, has production of Ordnance material The Office of Production commenced hearings. At the same time, the Navy Depart- Management is developing a plan for the allocation of ment, and it is believed other departments, are prepar- steel on all defense contracts on a monthly basis. ing the formal reports on the bill to be transmitted to However, the Bureau's procedure in handling individual the Bureau of the Budget. At the first hearing held on shortages as they have occurred or been anticipated Monday of this week only representatives of the various has worked out satisfactorily. veterans. and service organizations were heard. It is A new school with 1,000-man capacity, for training contemplated to hear the services themselves at the next enlisted men in radio material maintenance was hearings, which are indefinitely postponed awaiting the authorized November 4, 1941. The project will be clearance of formal reports through the Bureau of the carried out in the Twelfth Naval District, the Bureau 4. of Navigation reports. Scheduled Launchings reported by the Bureau of Ships: Ships Builder Date 3 Coastal Minesweepers ASSERTIVE Bristol Yacht Bldg.Co. 11/19/41 FEARLESS W. A. Robinson, Inc. 11/20/41 VICTOR Snow Shipyards, Inc. 11/20/41 1 Battleship INDIANA NewportNews Shpbldg&DD 11/21/41 3 Destroyers AARON WARD Federal S.B.&D.D.Co 11/22/41 BUCHANAN Federal S.B.&D.D.Co 11/22/41 FARENHOLT Beth.SteelCo.Staten I. 11/19/41 3 Submarine Chasers Dravo Corporation 11/20/41 Quincy Adams YachtYdIncll/21/l1 Vinyard Shipbuilding Coll/22/41 1 Submarine GROWLER Electric Boat Co. 11/22/41 Scheduled Deliveris reported by the Bureau of Ships: Ships Builder Date 2 Coastal Minesweepers ENERGY W. A. Robinson, Inc. 11/21/41 PRESTIGE Anderson & Cristofani 11/20/41 2 Motor Torpedo Boats (2) Miami Shipbuilding Corporation 11/20/41 Dry dock No. 2. at Pearl Harbor, on which construction was started on January, 1940, is now ready for emergency docking of ships, the Bureau of Yards and Docks reports. 1 BULLETIN 18 November, 1941 Joint Intelligence Council in London estimates future German operations as: (1) Aimed in near future at hold- ing its position in Libya (2) Advances southward into N. Caucasia, probably over the Don River rather than based on the Crimea. British believe Caucasus Mountains will not be gained, even with clement weather, before December's end (3) Continue efforts to take Moscow and perhaps Leningrad and sever lines of communications on routes to Archangel and Murmansk (4) Consolidate gains behind front (5) Continue Battle of the Atlantic with resumption of bombing over British Isles and (6) Possibly Germany will offer her enemies a general peace. German peace rumors. emanate from Von Papen, Ambassador to Turkey. Von Papen is reported to have stated that Germany is willing to consider giving Britain a free hand in Western Europe if Britain agrees to German control of Eastern Europe embracing the Balkans, former Poland, the Baltic States and the occupied parts of U.S.S.R. Turkey would act as mediator, ONI reports. General impression among German soldiers in regard to Russian campaign is that Hitler wants to satisfy his 2. 3. personal pride and is indifferent to Nazi losses. An Naval Observer reports. often-heard remark is this: "We must finish this fight An increasing number of German troops and parachute we started with Russia or be finished ourselves, but elements are reported at Naples. Hitler and his boys will one day have to pay for what The Bureau of Navigation reports on Officer Training (1) we have gone through". Many officers are disgusted A new class for 76 reserve officers was convened at with German radio propaganda, misleading statements Bowdoin College on November 6, 1941 for RADAR training and are becoming more and more discontented with party (2) The Merchant Marine Reserve Training Center at New regimes. Few in Army expect any practical benefit for York was discontinued on November 13, 1941. Merchant Germany from the Russian campaign other than the de- Marine reserve officers are not available for training struction of Soviet Military Power, a Naval Observer due to demands of merchant marine for seagoing officers reports. (3) There are 41 reserve officers, D-M and D-V(G) at Because of lack of sufficient food, housing, clothing present attending the Merchant Marine Training School and sanitary conditions, both en route and after at San Francisco (4) Organization has been set up to arrival at new regions, the health of the Russian people train 100 per cent spare crews for large patrol type evacuating eastward is only fair. Due, however, to long- planes at the Operational Training Units at Norfolk and held fear and hatred of the Nazis, the Soviet morale is San Diego. Training will be conducted by the Fleets. good, M I D reports from Kuibyshev. The program will be greatly increased when tional British have been urging Soviets to agree to receive patrol planes are delivered in July 1942. definite number of cargoes at Murmansk, but Soviets 8 strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were are unwilling to commit themselves on any use of this settled during the week ending November 15. 8 strike port unless Archangel proves inadequate to handle entire cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were still program. Continuing uninterrupted to present: operations, open and 8 strikes were continuing on which information railroad connections Murmansk, Archangel, Vologda, a relative to Naval Defense Contracts was not yet avail- 4. able as of November 15. Scheduled Keel Layings reported by the Bureau of Ships: Ships Builder Date 3 Minesweepers SWAY John H. Mathis Co. 11/18/41 SYMBOL Savannah Mach'y & Foundry Co. 11/18/41 THREAT Savannah Mach'y & Foundry Co. 11/18/41 1 Destroyer Bethlehem Steel Company, BACHE Staten Island 11/19/41 7 Submarine Chasers Mathis Yacht Building Co. 11/19/41 Dravo Corporation 11/17/41 Leathem Smith Coal and Shipbuilding Company 11/17/41 Peterson Boat Works 11/20/41 Peterson Boat Works 11/22/41 (2) Inland Waterways, Inc. 11/17/41 Captain Melville J. Aston, M.C. USN, has been ordered to the new hospital ship, USS SOLACE as Senior Medical Officer replacing Captain H. L. Jensen. The OPM sub-contracting trains now touring the country are being received very well according to reports from Naval Officers on board. Fjords of Iceland, in view of their narrowness and the mountainous conditions, require special consideration for aircraft landings. Navy pilots have been commended for their flying under these conditions and every possible precaution has been established to meet them, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. BULLETIN 17, November 1941 Total Enlisted Strength, 15 November ...... 283,561 Fleet Reservists (Enlisted) on Active Duty ...... 9,887 Other Reservists H II I # ...... 47,194 Retired Men # If # II ...... 2,905 Total ...... 59,986 Aggregate Enlistments (Last 24 hours) .... 254 Aggregate Discharges # # # .... 189 Gain 65 Naval Reserve Officers ordered to active duty for enforce- ment of neutrality and the strengthening of the National Defense within the limits of Peace-time authorities, as of November 15. Temp Ashore Character of Duty Ashore Afloat or Afloat Total Line Officers V-G Officers 2769 4056 - 6825 DE-V(S),D-V(S) & E-V(S) 2154 249 - 2403 DE-F Officers 1 - - 1 Communication Officers 627 129 - 756 I-V(S) Officers 1224 6 - 1230 O-V(S) Officers 632 - - 632 L-V(S) Officers 63 - - 63 Probationary Officers 26 43 1 70 Merchant Marine 142 888 10 1040 Staff Officers CEC-V Officers 679 - - 679 Sup Corps Officers 1021 352 - 1373 MC & DC Officers 1607 232 - 1839 CC-V Officers 114 1 - 115 CHC-V Officers 75 13 - 88 Aviation Officers(Instr) (Does not include A-V(N) 1120 12 - 1132 A-V(N) Officers 1198 1368 - 2566 Retired Officers, USNR 40 2 - 42 Res.Off.from Approp. other than PS&T 100 - - 100 Total 13592 7351 11 20954 BULLETIN 17 November, 1941 The allocations for 50 caliber machine guns for the calendar year 1942 are sufficient for all known re- quirements including defense aid. The same applies for heavy barrelled (air-cooled) anti-aircraft guns. The allocations for water-cooled anti-aircraft guns for all known requirements including defense aid will be met before the end of 1942, the Bureau of Ordnance reports. Naval Aviation appropriations for 1941-1942 are: 1942 1941 Appropriation $1,006,596,600 $452,319,950 Contract Authorization 10,000,000 530,000,000 Total $1,016,596,600 $982,319,950 The above total for the fiscal year 1942 includes $849,243,600 for new aircraft and $106,820,000 for routine maintenance and operation. A total of 9,365 airplanes and 27 non-rigid airships is included in the total for the two fiscar years. The appropriation for 1942 contains $350,000,000 to pay a portion of the con- tract authorization of $530,000,000 for 1941 to cover the cost of aircraft to be delivered in 1942. Funds will be requested later to cover the difference of $180,000,000, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. The Naval Ammunition Depot at Burns City, Indiana, a 2. 3. $2,500,000 project will be placed in commission approxi- a naval observer in Berlin reported no bomb fell within mately December 1, 1941. The contract was awarded De- half mile of the Embassy. Eden Hotel was hit, wrecking cember 12, 1940, the Bureau of Yards and Docks reports. top floor without casualties. Morale reported uneffect- Digest of Officer Personnel on Active Duty ed and only relatively minor widely scattered damage to Line Staff Warrants Total date. 1. Regular Navy on British estimate German minimum losses for first 20 Active Duty 7502 2268 2071 11841 2. Retired Officers weeks of the war at 1,250,000 out of total casualties on Active Duty 447 259 100 1506 3. Reserve Officers of 1,750,000. 70 of 156 German Infantry Divisions on Active Duty 16559 4236 159 20954 Total 25208 6763 2330 34301 engaged on the Russian Front have suffered fairly high as reported by the Bureau of Navigation. losses - in some cases running to 50% and it is believed 10 Swordfish and 4 Fulmers reported landed at Gibraltar numerous infantry regiments have lost up to 2/3 of their from the Ark Royal. This indicates the probable loss complement. 16 of 19 German Armored Divisions reported of 20 Swordfish and 20 Fulmers in the ship. on Russian Front believed to have had abnormal losses - German submarines have reinforced the Italian under-sea losses of 9 of these divisions are "considerable". craft operating in the Mediterranean is revealed for These figures do not take into account the disease cases, the first time in a special communique from Berlin. which are believed high and. will multiply throughout A decrease in air raid casualties is announced by the the winter. British Home Security Ministry. They stated 262 per- Arrangements have been set up for the conferences sons were killed and 361 injured in air raids on the between General Auchinleck and Marshal Cakmak, United Kingdon during October. It is an interesting Commander-in-Chief of the Turkish Army, M I D reports comparison that 10,000 were killed in the second quarter from Cairo. It is believed no talks have occurred as of this year, representing, however, only 10% increase yet. There is no trusting the Turk -- so runs sentiment of normal mortality rate in that period. On November 15 "here". Any power that invades Turkey will find 4. Turkish resistance. The Turk will gladly receive any and all armaments United States and Britain care to give to him, but a victorious Germany, or even an apparently victorious Germany, will find the Turk a turn-coat on the German side. Estimated strength of the Turkish Army is 600,000. No information is available on officer strength, MID reports. Following eight days of close observations of the Russians in that part of Iran occupied by the Soviets, it has been discovered that there are no first-line Soviet troops in Iran. The Russians have Line of Communication troops and recruits still in their early training as occupying forces. The Argentine Congressional committee investigating anti-Argentine activities has publicly asserted that a "German tourist invasion" of Argentina has been in progress ince March. 1,295 Germans arrived in Argentina up to October, 542 of them by airplane. A trusted informant forwards word from China of his practical certainty that the Japanese employed gas warfare against the Chinese October 8 - 10 in the battle of Ichang (Province on the Yangtze). BULLETIN 14 November, 1941 Four matters have been turned up in the past month by the National Defense Research Committee which may be of very great significance to the Navy. They are (1) the application of a new physical principle (magnetic) to submarine detection (previously. reported) (2) a source of pulses using a condenser discharge has been devised for RADAR which will be several times more power- ful and yet more compact for shipboard installation. The effect should be a great extension of the range of detection of aircraft from ships. (3) an improvement in the special vacuum tubes (magnitrons) used in RADAR permits the use of much more power without burning out and allows the powerful pulse mentioned above to be used effectively (4) very much more compact RADAR has been designed which now makes it possible to equip the single engine airplanes used on aircraft carriers. The adaptation of the airplane and RADAR to one another is being taken in hand, Dr. Hunsacker reports. Incident to the question of transporting United States Army type tactical airplanes to Basra (Iraq), it is understood that the Navy Department has recommended that 2. 3. this transportation be provided for or arranged by the Main Japanese movement of troops reported toward Tongking Maritime Commission, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. (No. French Indo-China) with some movement to Saigon (So. The aircraft tender ALBEMARLE is now at Norfolk and Indo-China). Latest arrivals mostly of labour corps. plans contemplate her trip to Iceland in the near future Preparations of lines of communications and aerodromes in with the objective of transporting PBY-5 amphibian both North and South Indo-China continues but present patrol bombers for our use in that area, the Bureau of distribution of strengths would indicate the first action Aeronautics reports. would more probably be against China than Thailand. Pre- The Bureau of Ordnance reports: (1) Present contracts sent estimated strengths, less labour corps, is 21 di- for 5" and 3" Anti-aircraft and Illuminating Projectiles visions in Tongking and 11 in South Indo-China. Large are proceeding satisfactorily and a program of additional recent increase of transport movements indicates a desire quantities is under way (2) Aircraft armor deliveries to complete preparations as soon as possible. The com- are progressing satisfactorily. The contractor "Atkins" bined fleet, including all aircraft carriers, remains is expected to complete his contracts by December 1 (3) in Home waters, the British report. Delivery of .50 caliber machine guns to ships at the Russian garrison in the Crimea is now thought to be much rate of one hundred and fifty per month is being main- smaller than the Soviets reported. Sevastopol lies in tained by the Army (4) Deliveries of landing force dire threat of capture. A neutral observer, however, ammunition and equipment of Army manufacture is proceed- just back from the rear installations of the German Front ing in accordance with allocations. reports enemy transport extremely strained wi th capacity Rear Admiral Furer, USN, now wd. th Compensation Board loads of munitions and ration supplies, and no facilities will become. Co-ordinator of Naval Research when Dr. left for bringing up winter housing material. Hunsacker leaves shortly to assume his duties in a full (1) Great majority German people place no trust in Nazi time capacity as Chairman of the National Advisory hierarchy nor do they believe its claims (2) Germans will Committee for Aeronautics, it is reported. surely be beaten, although there is no strategy apparent 4. by which to accomplish it (3) Swedish hatred of Germans is only slightly less than their hatred of Russians. and this abhorrence is believed intensified by the German treatment of the Norwegian people, are the personal opinions of a Swedish Colonel air observer now visiting London. One infantry regiment with war reserve anti-aircraft artillery batteries and one mounted detachment attached are said. to be en route from W. Hungary to garrison certain areas of occupied Russia. One Hungarian aviation squadron and one mountain brigade recently recalled from Russia have arrived in Hungary. Recently seized French ships are at Port Elizabeth and East London, South Africa. These ships resisted search. Sabotage such as wrecked steering gear, wiped engine bearings and setting fire to ship was committed. The South African Government will take over these ships and loan them to the British, a naval observer reports. The British Air Ministry told the press yesterday that hundreds of British Hurricane fighting planes are being assembled on various parts of the Russian front and that Soviet pilots were being instructed in their use by members of an RAF wing. BULLETIN 13 November, 1941 More tanker tonnage was launched in 3rd Quarter 1941 by United States and Britain than was sunk or captured by the Axis powers according to ONI's balance sheet: Gross Tons War, to end 3rd Qtr Sept. 1941. 1941. to Tanker tonnage lost ..... 1,406,842 105,521 Tankers launched in British Isles - 258,750 -68,550 1,148,092 36,971 Tankers launched in U.S.. - 400,621 -57,417 NET 747,471 Loss 20,444 Gain Barring certain Axis reinforcements, both the Imperial armored and air strengths are superior in the Western Desert. British tanks now number 772 and armored cars number 330. Opposing this, Axis can claim 490 tanks, of which 276 are German. Enemy armored cars are said to be few. Against RAF's 1,000 operative airplanes in the Middle East, Germans can command in Libya 362 aircraft, while Italians have 411. Barring last-minute German reinforcements, British aircraft will be superior in number. As in tanks, Italian aircraft in the light of past performance are inferior to British craft. British report: Brindisi, Italy attacked with 30 tons of 2. 3. high explosives November 7-8 - hits claimed on aircraft German Air Force reported. to have exerted its maximum factory, torpedo boat (base) and railway centers. effort in the Russian war. Although 60% of its entire Naples attacked with 20 tons of high explosives - fires strength of first line planes have been used, air superi- started in railway centers and near torpedo factory. ority has been established only locally. It is believed Targets attacked in Sicily included Bitumen factory at their air force has been reduced to an operational efficien- Ragusa and gun powder factory near Comiso. cy of about 50% and strength in reserve training units is Large German airport reported by naval observer located indicated to be, declining. in valley approximately ten kilo-meters due West of War supplies are flowing through the Near East to Soviet Foggia airport in Italy. It has exceptional and com- Russia by several routes, British Army officials in Basra, plete facilities for major overhaul of motors and Iraq have told a reporter. planes. The personnel and operations are. exclusively General British conclusion on whether weather conditions German. from now until April are more favorable than at any other Russian casualties reported running heavier than German time of the year for a Japanese attack against Kunming losses, which a Turkish intelligence officer recently (S.W.China) is that the supply problem alone would render returned from Moscow estimates between 1 and, 13 million. a Japanese action against Kunming most di fficult. Russian power of attack now greatly decreased, due to Monthly top operating capacity of the Burma Road set at a- extensive losses of armored vehicles and artillery. bout 30,000 tons. Its present operating capacity is about However, obsolete units are being thrown into action half that. Dumps have accumulated along the Road to extent in sufficient numbers to assure. a Russian defensive that with the present capabilities in force, 1 year will be for some time to come. Over 600 first class Russian needed to clear the accumulated supply dumps off the Road. airplanes were observed in the trans-Caucasus which led 2 Lieutenant Commanders, Dental Corps, Special Service, this officer to believe Russians are not short of USNR, were selected to Commander, and 2 Lieutenant Command- aircraft. ers, Dental Corps, USN, were selected to Commander. Seven Commanders, Dental Corps, USN, were selected to Captain, the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery reports. - During September about the same amount of Defense Aid funds was obligated as in August. However, since only a small amount of new money was made available, the pro- portion of funds committed to funds available rose from 67% on August 31 to 76% on September 30. Contracts, letters of intent, project orders, Bureau requisitions and Bureau allotments or service totalled $872,673,988 compared with $740,647,674 at-the end of August against total finds available of$1,144,651,465 and $1,105,803,081 respectively. Among the Bureaus of Ships, Ordnance and Aeronautics, whi ch have received the largest allocations, there is very little difference in the proportion of. funds committed by contract, letter of intent, or project order (under which actual production can be initiated) to the total amount of money available. to each, the Office of Budget and Reports reports. Delegate King has advised concerning the importation of Philippinos into Hawaii that there should be a maximum number set and provision made for their return to the Philippines. The Bill is before the Budget and "smooth sailing" is anticipated JAG's Office reports. BULLETIN 12, November 1941 There are 1360 RADAR equipments on order, 35 of which are experimental models which are installed in the fleet. 25 equipments have been delivered on the first production contracts which call for 400 ship control and 500 fire control equipments. Delivery of fire control equipments will build up to 80 per month by the end of the year. Ship control equipments are scheduled for production at the rate of 15 per week. Contracts for additional equipments will be let in the near future, when negoti- ations now underway are completed. Considerable new design work is involved in equipments remaining to be procured, the Bureau of Ordnance reports. There is some feeling in the Bureau of Ships that "the KEARNY" may not have been a "first order explosion". Instead it may have been an influence type torpedo. Therefore, this may not have been a complete test of what destroyers of the KEARNY type can take. The damage to the structure was somewhat more severe than the first impression. The Bureau is "heartily pleased" with what the KEARNY did but they don't want to de- velop overconfidence until they are sure. Therefore, 2. 3. the study is continuing. same day. TERUKAWA MARU agents are giving instructions Assistant Secretary Gates is inspecting the Grumman in various ports to expedite handling of cargo regardless Plant, Garden City, Long Island; Quonset Point and of cost. They desire to remove ships from South American the Vought-Sikorsky Plant, Bridgeport, Connecticut. waters as soon as possible, it is reported from Santiago, This is a part of a long-range inspection program of Chile. A report from Callao, Peru, stated there are no aircraft plants, bases and activities which the Assist- more Japanese ships to leave from Japan for the West ant Secretary hopes and plans to follow as opportunity Coast of South America. offers. Reliable information has been received by ONI that The aircraft squadrons of HMS INDOMITABLE have been Japanese sending air reinforcements Mandated Islands landed at the Naval Air Station, Norfolk, where they consisting of 48 bombers and patrol types and 12 will base while the ship is under repair, the Bureau fighters. This, however, may be simply confirmation of of Aeronautics reports. prior report showing intention of Japanese to station Digest of Officer Personnel on Active Duty some 62 planes divided among several islands. Line Staff Warrants Total In Moscow there is evidence of considerable lowering 1. Regular Navy on of popular morale, although Army and Government workers Active Duty 7497 2268 2052 11,817 2. Retired Officers continue optimistic. on Active Duty 1147 259 100 1,506 3. Reserve Officers On November 9, six survivors, including Master and first on Active Duty 16440 4227 159 20,826 Total 25084 6754 2311 34,149 mate of SS TARPOOL, British registry arrived Fox Cove as reported by the Bureau of Navigation. on the West side of Placentia Bay (Newfoundland). Japanese ships have been ordered to return to Japan as Survivors report ship was torpedoed 200 miles east-south- soon as possible according to "reliable information" east of Cape Race on November 1st. from Lima, Peru. TERUKAWA MARU (6,172 tons) arrived 240 tank cars oil reported entering Italy daily from Antofagasta (Chile) 9th. NARU to Valparaiso (Chile) on Bycocuvia Danube. Upon entering Italy oil is sent to 4. Fiume, Liverno and Trieste for refining. Germans have ice breakers ready and intend to keep the Danube open all year round for oil shipments. Remaining November 1, total 78 Italian submarines. 6 in Atlantic and 72 in Mediterranean. Damaged or other- wise unavailable 35 under overhaul, leaving 3 in Atlantic and 40 in Mediterranean available. 17 various types under construction or projected. Operating at one time in Mediterranean, reports indicate not more than 8, it is reported by a reliable source in Rome. Italians in Libya as reported by ONI: Regular Army 1 - Armored Div. (5,000 men in a Division) 2 - Motorized Div. (10,000 men in a Division) 5 - Infantry Div. ( Average 15,000 men in a Div.) 8 - Divisions 138 tanks - 470 planes. In addition the Italians probably have two Blackshirt Divisions (average 12,000 men in a Division) and four uncomplete Divisions which were previously destroyed by the British and are now being reconstituted. Because L.A.T.I. and Airfrance have German radio facili- ties at Natal airports and Brazil has no surveillance, Nazi agents obviously will continue reporting movements of airplanes being ferried to Europe as long as Axis dominated airlines operate in Brazil, it is reported. BULLETIN 10, November 1941 British "ar Office believes (1) Germans can reach Baku in four months after Rostov falls if Russians resist strongly the advance, in 21 months if resistance is weak (2) No drive by Germans to reach the Caucasus oil grounds is considered probable during the winter through Turkey, nor for the present is any combined operation expected across the Black Sea (3) There is no likelihood Germany will attack Turkey as an auxiliary move to the Russian campaign; however, present preparations indicate every intention of striking Turkey next spring. Full load Nazi trucks have recently been rolling into Bulgaria. This "may indicate" ammunition and equipment for a possible German Caucasus thrust to be launched from Bulgarian shores, it is reported by M. I. D. Leningrad stands firmly and holds every possibility of denying the Germans successful investment of the city, in spite of certain shortages in supplies. Considerable reserve contingents, which appear to be fit units for combat, have been sent to Moscow from the East. Further reinforcements believed to have been called, Chief Czechoslovak Mission to Moscow "reveals". 2. 3. Germany monthly accession of oil from all sources in- six weeks ago as an inspection tour of Indian units in cluding synthetic production and new supplies from Burma and Malay. It appears to bear no relation to the Rumania totals 1,015,000 tons. Total consumption by present tense situation, it is reported all branches of the Axis armed forces and by all The possibility is being investigated of accommodating civilian groups is 1,375,000 tons. The German air flight crews of the British aircraft carrier arriving force on the Russian front is accounting for 65,000 at the United States Naval Air Station Norfolk today. tons of this monthly total and the German a ray in the This possibility is in addition to giving them flight same area is consuming a monthly total of about 375,000 facilities on the station field, it is reported by the tons, it is reported. Bureau of Aeronautics. As to the reason for a decline in imports of oil from Reenlistment of Enlisted Personnel on Active Duty Rumania into Germany, British War Office information Average for the year .... 74.05% indicates that Rumanian fields are producing smaller Average for the month 75.29% and smaller amounts of oil due to the fact that the as reported by the Bureau of Navigation. wells have been playing out over a period of months. 150 Reserve officers are now in attendance at the Naval It is also stated that the quality of the oil produced Reserve School of Indoctrinati on for newly procured is very low and all refining must be accomplished in Naval Reserve officers at Fort Schuyler, the Bronx, New Germany. In addition to a decline in the imports of York, the Bureau of Navigation reports. Rumanian oil into Germany, it is said that no Rumanian 9 strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were oil is now going to Italy. settled during the week ending November 8. 11 strike Some French motor vessels manned by German crews report- cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were still ed now at Naples. open and 2 strikes were continuing on which information Although General Wavell's visit to Singapore shows excel- relative to Naval Defense Contracts was not yet avail- lent political timing at this juncture, it was scheduled able as of November 8. 4. The first of three officers from the Admiralty has arrived to discuss various forms of tank transport and landing craft. These disoussions should be very "profitable" the Bureau of Ships reports. Scheduled Keel Layings reported by the Bureau of Ships: Ships Builder Date 12 Minesweepers EXCEL Jakobson Shipyard Inc. 11/15/41 FORCE Penn-Jersey Corp. 11/15/41 PORTENT and PREVAIL Pennsylvania Ship- yards, Inc. 11/15/41 SEER, SENTINEL, STAFF, SKILL SPEED, STRIVE STEADY, SUSTAIN American Shipbuild- ing Company 11/15/41 1 Light Cruiser HUNTINGTON N.Y.Shipbuilding Corp. 11/15/41 1 Submarine TUNNY New York Mare Island 11/10/41 Scheduled Launchings reported by the Bureau of Ships: Ships Builder Date 6 Submarine Chasers (2) Seabrook Yacht Corp. 11/15/41 Leathem Smith Coal & Shipbuilding Co. 11/15/41 Elizabeth City ShipYd 11/12/41 Elizabeth City ShipYd 11/15/41 Mathis Yacht Bldg.Co. 11/12/41 Confiderndal BULLETIN 10, November 1941 Total Enlisted Strength, 8 November ....... 282,182 Fleet Reservists (Enlisted) on Active Duty 9,887 Other Reservists If If If If 46,358 Retired Men If If If II 2,905 Total 59,150 Aggregate Enlistments (Last 24 hours) ..... 112 Aggregate Discharges If If If ..... 72 Gain 40 Naval Reserve Officers ordered to active duty for enforce- ment of neutrality and the strengthening of the National Defense within the limits of Peace-time authorities, as of November 8. Temp Ashore Character of Duty Ashore Afloat or Afloat Total Line Officers V-G Officers 2760 4066 1 6827 DE-V(S),D-V(S) & E-V(S) 2136 250 1 2387 DE-F Officers 1 - - 1 Communication Officers 627 129 2 758 I-V(S) Officers 1209 6 2 1217 O-V(S) Officers 628 - - 628 L-V(S) Officers 62 - - 62 Probationary Officers 27 45 1 73 Merchant Marine 138 894 12 1044 Staff Officers CEC-V Officers 678 - - 678 Sup Corps Officers 1024 352 1 1377 MC & DC Officers 1599 227 2 1828 CC-V Officers 113 1 1 115 CHC-V Officers 75 13 - 88 Aviation Officers(Instr) (Does not include A-VN) 1109 11 I 1120 A-V(N) Officers 1155 1327 - 2482 Retired Officers, USNR 39 2 - 41 Res.Off.from Approp. other than PS&T 100 - I 100 Total 13480 7323 23 20826 Sunfidential BULLETIN 7 November 1911 Brittsh action Ln the Western Desert reported from London, *Indoent* 13 shown by several minor Indicative details. British Empire forces In the Middle East are under two consenders. Conoral Auchinleek contanda the unite in : Africa and Syria; those in Iraq and Iran are con- nanded by General Navell, Commander in Chief in-India, Each of these Generals receives orders from the aar Office in Lorrion. General Wilson commission the forces in Tyria. and is answersble to General Auchinleck, Atr support for the entire Middle East in under the connard of Air Marshal Tedder, who La directly under the Air. Malatry. However, Price Minister Churchill has subordinated his to General Auchinleck for the con- duet of operations in Scrpt and Libya, MID reports. The 35, 000. too Densan battleship TIMPITE sister ship or the 111-fated HISTANCE, was damaged in . Russian air 81- tack on Diesis, according to 5. Brittsh report from Stockholm Const of too of Italy reported being fortified with natium caliber and siching guns. laste of machine guns 2. being placed to control visal made and principal bittle representative In Pokyor "The Japannen Any La junctions and 7 Umya havily cuarded. concerned with having Its face; the United States Le Derm Le further confirmation overgeming who transit of meeking to procerve Its principles". Main colonial forces to Italy, estimated as eight Provisions for Instruction of personnal in RADAR have Elvisions. boen node by the Burence of Havigation 11 follows: (1) 1100 German sallors at Haples Envenber lie Italian tach- 75 of Roars any now taking A primary course AS America niclane are reported leaving to establish appeably baces College and 15 at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. for small submarines In 3. Normal amount (2) 235 Nave2 Enserve Officers lave coopleted we prim- Jerman-Italian interial still, Flowing Litys by convoy. FY operate. 25 12V now taking advenced course at Troops are to be air borne from Stelly starms 2200 German Bellevus md, have completed 14. already. ()) three de force personnel recently sent for, the purpose. officers and 20 unlisted ann (n) use taking missinded DATED 42-passengar teansport planse are used, BABAR training In Canada. 32 officers and 200 millsted An Italian tanker beaded for friests, the first much DOB -- completed this course. (\) à RADAIL marial votent to lasse the Mack Sea alsoe Detober 8, peased school, with capacity of 1,000 non, Le being entablished Intental (Turkey, on the Bosporus), November 1. on the West Coast at Tronsure Island, San Francisco pay. A movement of Waste light tank and air force units to (5) On the Tast Coast a RADAR school, with . especity Crépco vie Jugonlavia to reported. To is believed the of 300, le being established at Annocolis. (6) Pighter- tanks will be transported by plane to Libyn. director classes in RADAB are DOB being hold at the There are only 22 Human Divisions (approximately Naval Air Station, Norfolk, and Nami Hr Station, 500,000 non in all) in the Far Sant and Maschulrus burder Sen Diago. area according to proviously dependable source. The 38th Ordnance *** will be asseded to the Continent- Commiting on the United States-Japan discussions =1 atn Company, Birdinglis, Alabama, on next Saturity currently going on, a well-known Japanese told Use for Its excellent performance In the manufacture of heavy Navy Ordnance. The Ordnance "g" Le much sought after, the of Ordnance reports. Comparative cost of the ration of General nosses Le reported as of October 23 by the Bureau of Supplies and Accounts an follower Third Fourth Quarter Quarter Group Vennols 1941 1911 A 100 son or less substated daily 1,806 6770 - R. 101-200 " # If 1,652 1409k 0 201-350 " - N 1739 .4921 D 351-500 # . " 4524 14076 E 501-800 . # # Wh53 .4685 y 801 - and over " . 4469 11719 General average # - 1,503 10749 Receiving and other Shore Stations A 100 was or less substated daily 4249 5147 B 101-200 . # - 4808 11,832 C 201-350 " # " 4309 1751 D 351-500 # - R 12,95 .4732 E 501-800 # - # 4545 .4705 F 801 a and over " # 4377 1,566 Omerd Average = . 1564 General average all activities .6473 .4671 Operating under Land-Lease program as of 23 October 132 Corlikon 20 - anti-aireraft equipments (gune, mounts, etc.) have been delivered to the British. -Punds have been allocated for programt of 12,000 of these cane for the British. Hannfacture is proceed= ing at there plants, the Buroau of reports. I BULLETIN 6 liovenber 1961 The training of fficers and non In groups for duty an Armed Ouard Oun Crows consenced on October 16, 1941. Each crew consists of one enalign, one pesty officer to act as pm captain, and seven non-rated non. All nan are being trained in the various stations at surface and anti-aireraft guns, and also In the use of 30 callber and 50 caliber enti-aireraft nachine juns. This is to give flexibility in the assignment of - to ships in warying numbers depending on the areasent. Twenty-three such gun cruw are in training on the East Coast and tidety-one on the West Coast. The training program TM originally designed to train 225 officers and 1800 non during #. pariod of three months. It Le contemplated expending the program to train 250 officers and 2800 nen during % puriod of four months. About 250 non and sixty officers previously trained for aroud guard duties are being absorbed in and made & part of this program, the Bureau of Revigation reports. Delivery of arsor for ships Le progressing estisfactori- 17. Expansion of arsor facilities for an ultimate capacity of 8,000 gross tons per month should be attain- 2. ed within 12 nonths. Authorization for an additional 3. both know this and are doing their best to bolster the thousand tons per worth is pending, the Bureau of Ord- norale, telling thes that foreign countries undersationte nance reports. Japan's strength and appealing to them for national unity. Lagor trouble which threatens to become serious in San This publicity campaign Le doing some good but not enough Diego area will definitely retard progress of Maval to convince the people that they can stand the strain In- Shore Establishment work unloss settled imediately. definitely. Every effort Le being made toward this end, the Bureau H.M. Anbassador In Japan has received from Minister of of Tards end Docise reports. Foreign Affairs highly unsatisfactory reply to represen- A British ourder damaged due to grounding La enroute to tation concerning Japanese activities against British Norfolk where arrangements will be nade by the Haval Air interests in China and elsewhere, H.M. Ambansador Station to provide facilities for the operation of the favored retaliation now, currier's complement of airplanes which in understood Dritish Rilitary Intelligence does not look for a Japan- to be thirty-six, the Burqu of Aeronautics reports, ese attack from Indo-China on Yurinan (Province China) Launchings for the week reported by the Bureau of Shipes designed to sever the Puras Road, In the neur future. Shipe Builder United States and British air aid Le believed to be the Coastal idnesweeper F. L. Fulton MIDDRABLE objective of any Chinese statemento predicting each an 2 Semplane Tenders lisvy Yard, MACKINAC and CASCO Puget Sound. attack. Such statesents are labeled propaganda. is Submarine Chasers Elizabeth City Shipyards. Lenthers Salth Coal é 5,8, Co. Despite Finnish claim Ruscians state categorically that Peterson Boat Works Vinyard Shipbuilding Co. no German or Finnish advance has been made on Hurmank The norale of the Japanese people is reported "not good". front. They have been in a state of tension for too long and Spanish Chief of Naval Staff has informed British Noval sconomic problems bother thes too much. They do not Attache that Spanish Government protesting to German wast to fight un or anybody also. The Army and the Havy Covernment against Gerdan attack on two Brittsh merchant ships within Spantsh territorial waters off Hunlva (5.8. Spain). Spantsh Chief of Havel Staff reported accepted hint that 11 might be necessary to require escort for British ships If Derams did not give cuarac- the to respect Spantsh territorial waters in future. Vinistry of Sconomic sarfare London, stated November 5 Unt during this year the Allied blockade has setsol 39 French ships and sald that for blockade purposes Pritain regarded occupted France as enemy-controlled territory. French merchantaen reported November la Intercepted - by British were HANGROK, CAPPA TIARAN, CAPTOURATE, TORTSE, COMPTYINE, escorted by French sloop DISCRVILLE. French ships less DISERVILLE are being brought into Port Signboth and East London (Cape of Good Hope, Africa). DISERVILLE returned to Tanatave, (Madagascar). Suez Cenal reported temporarily closed owing to mis- pected unexploded nine or bonb dropped south of Middle Lakes, it La reported. British planes have dropped 10,000 tons of bonbs on Germany and occupied territories during the past four months the British announce In London. BULLETIN 5 licvember 1911 British compilation of ships sunx during October shows: No. Tonnage British 27 128,541 Allied 13 117,579 Neutral 3 10,249 Total 01 256,369 This is midway between August sinkings of 179,945 tons end September of 323,658 Lons. The total strongth of the Moyal Havy is 395,000. or this total 212,000 are for *ear service only". In- claied in the above is Libe Wonno's Royal Raval Service of 850 officers and 15,000 ratings, it Le reported. Thats reported not Lo have mobilized reserves or con- contrated troops on Eastern border, In Bangkok un- confirmed reports are that Thailand will make Nill agree- sent with Japanese unless aid is guaranteed by USA or Britsin. In late liovember or serly December, when dry sesson connences, Japannee are believed to be propering to Invade Thailand. Returning after a short Junket Le Kuibyshev, Britain's Wilitary Chief to the Soviets reports the existence of at least one full Juneian reserve division well armed send in fine condition. The Polich report 2. 3. another three divicions around Saratov, the of which Should the railroad conter of Vologia be boabsd, - cavalry. The Brittah Chief feels something in Archangel will be out off, except by air, It in - browing in the Hustlan camp. ported. ale forces reported concentrating their de- Britteh Miscle Sant Intelligence formene no probability structive power upon Garman personnel rather than Arts air power will be strengthened In Libya before n ripon naterial on the "theste" that Gerven shortage, fortnight le out. Hor does it entlaste German south- if any, will eventually be mannower. Coneral Gronov, word drive from Generasus before Yuletide, Chief Soviet utitury states in London critical of In September, 21 Defense Aid projects for which the H.A.F. because It 1s trained for deferes of $5,020,600 had been specifically allocated because British Talee and not for offensive notion. The be- 100f complete, raising the number of completed pro- lloves H.A.F. should train alongside ground troops jocts to 61 and the amount of the allocation of in preparation for offensive operations and exphnsimed funds involved to $46,622,850. In numbers, the need of schooling aviation in anti-tank verfare, projects completed to date are monthly repair Jobs or pointing out Russian conviction that the first secret projects where procurement and samiacture Le rela- of stopping an ar-ored drive Le to cover 11 quickly tively simple, but In amount allocated mterial for with anti-tank aircraft. bases accounts for about three quarters of the total. A petrol shortage at forward stations, supplied by air Progress toward completion during the month continues transport, or German fighter consands in reported hold- to be chiefly Ln there save types of projects, with Ing up fighter operations around hostor. foft lending the showing of the hireaus of Ships, Supplies and Melds, poor visibility, snow and frost, during Inst Accounts, and Tards and Cooks the most noticeable. It week have all contributed to many cancellations of should be noted, homever, that in the 00.80 of snother Common air operations in Only about 505 of the large project, namely, Oarlikon (uns, the first Dew planes in the fighter units are now serviceable. fense Aid deliveries began in September, the Bureau Budget and Reports, reports. the third group of awards for the Bureau of Ord- ce "E" Incentive Program, seven Shore Estahlish- ts have been included for the first time. They are: Naval Gun Factory, Washington. Torpedo Station, Alexandria, Virginia. Torpedo Station, Newport, Rhode, Island. Naval Ammunition Depots, St. Julians Creek, Va. Mare Island, California. Powder Plant, Indian Head, Maryland. Ordnance Plant, Baldwin, Long Island. S is in recognition of the splendid work the Naval re Establishments are doing. Fourteen industrial nts were also included in this group of awards. ty-three members of, the Ninth Platoon, Parachute ops, USMC have completed their six-week course of truction and are eligible to r eceive their tificates of Proficiency" in parachute jumping. is earnestly believed that too much praise cannot given to the men that comprise the perachute ops. They are strictly volunteers; no man is red to this type of duty against his will. And nan who volunteers for this arduous and hazardous ich of the military Service rightfully deserves the praise that can be handed out, the Bureau of onautics reports. dential BULLETIN 3 November 1941 ilisted Strength, 1 November 280,343 eservists (Enlisted) on Active Duty .... 9,864 servists " " " " .... 45,533 "en If " Il 11 .... 2,858 Total 58,255 e Enlistments (Last 21, hours) 261 e Discharges 11 If 11 185 Gain 76 serve Officers ordered to active duty for enforce- neutrality and the strengthening of the National within the limits of Peace-time authorities, as of er. Temp Ashore ter of Duty Ashore Afloat or Afloat Total loers icers 2742 4090 1 6833 ,D-V(S) & E-V(S) 2103 244 1 2348 ficers 1 - - 1 cation Officers 620 130 2 752 Officers 1191 6 2 1199 Officers 627 - - 627 Officers 58 - - 58 onary Officers 26 46 1 73 to Marine 131 896 13 10:10 ficers fficers 674 - - 674 ps Officers 1022 353 1 1376 Officers 1590 215 2 1807 ficers 113 1 1 115 fficers 75 13 - 88 1 Officers(Instr) ot include A-V(N) 1098 11 - 1109 Officers 39 2 - 41 Total 12110 6007 24 18141 Confidential BULLETIN 31 October 1941 file New German Action on Moscow Front may prove final Nazi attempt to seize capital before winter. Failure would probably force Germans to with-draw bulk of armies as far West as Smolensk, British experts reported - believing. Sweeping German advances across flat plains of Northern Crimea have brought "immediate danger of military operations" to Sevastopol, Russia's big Black Sea Naval Base, it is reported. Russian Black Sea fleet reported 30 October active in Crimea fighting, apparently bombarding German lines. Reports on Russia from a reliable source include: (1) Main concern of the people is over obtaining food (2) Barricades have been built in some streets and all evi- dence shows city is to be. defended with determination (3) It seems Russians do not expect to save Moscow but have every intention of making the Nazis pay for it as dearly as possible (4) Since Russian Army has had chance to reform its lines again a direct assault is apparently less likely to be undertaken than a seige (5) City's anti-aircraft defense remains very strong 2. 3. and heavy bombings have been impeded by bad weather. The Bureau of Ships reports the estimated dates of MOUNT EYANS, (United States 6,267 tons) presently at completion during October, 1941, for 16 AIRCRAFT RESOUE Boston, is being arsed and will fly Soviet flag. This BOATS being built in Comercial lards is as follows: is the first United States ship transferred to Runsis, 36' Aircraft Rescue Boate 7 Completed by 15 October, 1941. under Lend-Lesse Plan, it is reported. 1 Completed by 16 October, 1941. 1 Completed by 25 October, 1941. British Coastal Consand Hudson planes attacked shipping 1 Completed by 31 October, 1941. 45' Aircraft Rescue Bonts at anchor Le Aslesunt, (W. Coast of Normy, approximate- 2 Completed by 15 October, 1941. 3 Completed by 21 October, 1941. ly 100 miles N. of Bergen) Marbor, hitting seven ships, 1 Completed by 24 October, 1941. two of which sank, No Pritish losses, it is reported. or 19 additional Aircraft Rescue Boats being built, ten Blackouts are being cerefully observed in Runania be- are xpected to be delivered before the first of the year. cause of possible distant English air attacks, it is Twenty-seven submarines are scheduled for completion reported. in 1942 at an average of over. six months shead of Daily arrival of troops, at Haiphong (Seaport of Tonkin contract date, Bureau of Ships reports. French Indo-China), plus steady streem of supplies and "holpsale price Lndex for all commodities for weeks material reported arriving at Formosa (Island in China ending reported as follows: 20 Sept. 1941 - 91.5 Sea) and Hadnan (Island, South China Sea), indicate 27 Sept. 1941 - 91.2 la October 1941 - 91.6 possible invasion of Yunnan, Such an operation would 11 October 1941 - 91.6 18 October 19L1 - 91.7 be difficult, but feasible if executed in force. 25 October 1941 - 91.2 Chinese contention that it would be turning point in 40 nm Bofors Barrels. 2500 forgings are on order with battle for Asia believed correct. Capture of Kunming adequate deliveries. Authority to negotiate with a (Yunnanfu, China) would completely crush Chinese re- supplier located in Ohio for an additional 3500 barrel sistance while penetration even to Mengtez - (Yunnan, forgings has been requested. This will provide the China) would close Burna road, it La-reported, present requirements of 6000 barrels, 3000 of whichare be supplied for machining to a contractor located in nsylvania and the remaining 3000 to a contractor lo- ed in South Carolina, Steps are being taken to secure tionál sources of supply, Bureau of Ordnance reports. ortance of development and research in modern warfare seen in the Bureau of Ordnance's allocation of 966,080 for this purpose for the fiscal year 1943 ch is $2,300,000 greater than has been appropriated 3, far for 1942. er of Civilian Employees in the Navy as of 16 ber reported to be: 1 in United States 228,133 ide of Continent of United States 23,404 251,537 tlantic United States Coast alone Yards 121,260 F than Navy Yards and exclusive ashington, D. C. 30,068 ington, D. C. 10,835 I 162,163 additional civilian employees for the Navy Depart- were authorized- in the Navel Supplemental Appropri- n Act approved 28 October. This will bring the er of Departmental Civilian employees up to 00 plus, a point expected to be reached prior to end of March 1942, the Administrative's Office rts. Confidential BULLETIN 30 October 1941 Some 105 Ordnance contracts have been executed for facilities to expedite the production of armor and munitions destined for ships under construction, 23 have been completed. Those still uncompleted amount to $218,788,781 and orders have been placed with other government establishments for the same purpose amount to $53,944,855. It is expected that expenditures on these outstanding obligations will increase as more building projects and facilities are finished and put in production. Estimates for succeeding years to furnish ordnance for the present construction program are: for fiscal year 1944-$550,000,000; 1945-$550,000, 000; 1946-$394,149,936, the Bureau of Ordnance reports. 20 mm Gun and Mount - The delays at the American Oerlikon-Gazda Corporation due to lack of some small parts, are being remedied. Deliveries from the Hudson Motor Car Company are expected to commence in November. The National Cash Register Company, whose requirements for copper had not been met, has, through the efforts of Office of Production Management, acquired copper on a monthly basis for magazines and loading frames. 2, 3. possible substitutes for copper in the magazine The Buroau of Yards and Docks has approval to recruit assemblier are being investigated, the Burona of Ord- public work bottalions - draftssen, artisans, mechanics, nance reports. carpenters, etc. - as enlisted men for those stations Proposed legislation for the admission of additional where Lt is difficult to obtain civilian labor, Philippinos into the Hawaiian Islands to work as common Russian Front Comminders warn that Germans are starting laborers is under consideration. Delegate King of biggest artillery bombardment of, war on HOSCOW Front. Hawaii reports that the territorial of Cleials are in Report concentration of huge German forces including favor of the proposed legislation AS plantation labor large tank units behind lines Intimating new and is being drained Into defense projects thus creating forocious attack on Soviet Capitol, Lt is reported. % very serious shortage, Havy will "expedite" as 40,000 Nasin reported in North Finland, mainly at quickly 0.8 possible. Rovanieni and at Kemi, within striking distance of It in understood that the British will request United Sweden's frontier. They are, working on a two-year States Havy facilities to indoctrinate their pilote building program, consisting Ln part of military air- who are to san sections of airplanes on the ILLUSTRIOUS drones. and FORMIDABLE on the voyage of those yeasels to their "Iron savings system" under which Germann will be In- hose waters. It is expected that the indoctrination vited to give Government their savings until end of will consist of flying Navy type FLY airplanes var in return for partial Laminity from Income taxes, (Grumman Fighters) in preperation for the above duty reported soon to be decreed. the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. British reported will seise Axin funds at DOB. British The Bureau of Navigation reports: Authorities at Trinidad recently seised $70,000 in Nurses on June 30 June 30 Dec 31 June 30 Sept 30 currency in possession suspect passenger enroute in Duty 1939 1940 1940 1941 1941 Brazilian ship. It is assumed seisure took place Regular 438 142 1,90 525 753 Reserve o o 24 146 187 under new rule. Neapolitans reported generally appreciative bombardments by British planes only directed against military object- ives. Naples would now resemble Pompeii had it not been for this policy is comment frequently heard there. General Southward movement of Japanese shipping in West Pacific reported. Two Japanese Aircraft Carriers, one of which is Kaga, are reported operating in Mandated Islands. In preparation for possible Japanese offensive along railway from Indo-China directed toward Kunming (Yunnanfu, China) Chinese reported to have organized three new defensive zones. Japanese reported seeking land near Culebra Bay (North West Coast), Costa Rica, it is reported. Wiedenmann's position in Tientsin (China) as Consul General reported merely a front for his espionage work in the Nazi military und r-ground spy ring, as head of the "Orient Gruppe". Intimidation and sabotage his particular forte and he has plenty of hidden financial backing. The chief activities will be directed against India and Burma and it will serve as the fore-runner of an Oriental pincer movement against India and balanc- ing the march of Germany into Russia, It is reported. ufidential BULLETIN 29 October 1941 ptember defense aid deliveries of material valued $19,291,122 were very close to three times the gust figure, which in turn was three times that for ly. On 30 September the value of deliveries was proximately double their value on 31 August. As ticipated, the gap between the value of articles livered from stocks and the value of those procured th Defense Aid funds is rapidly widening, the Office Budget and Reports, reports. ior appropriation articles shipped under Defense Aid ontinue to be mainly 3"/50 guns and 4"/50 projectiles. fense Aid Supplemental Appropriation materials de- vered, as in August, were chiefly petroleum products; it there were significant deliveries of aircraft ngines, parachutes, Oerlikon ammunition and guns, able, anchors and chain, generators and marine engines der the cognizance of the Bureau of Aeronautics, rdnance or Ships, the Office of Budget and Reports, sports. he Navy is making arrangements to deliver for Great ritain 48 fighter planes to be flown from New York to 2. a. Norfolk and 50 tain engine anphibian utility planes from areas is being studied. New York to Trinidad, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. Marly in November the Soloh will launch & peace of- Operating under Lend-Lesse program as of 2) October, fensive, it is reported. 1,363,700 rounds of 20 as anti-aircraft amunition Nazio reported continuing their regotiations with the have been delivered to Brittsh. Funds have been allo- Turks. cated to Lbs Bureau of Ordnance for 32,000,000 rounds Heich since 22 June reported to have put the following of this assunition for the British, the Bureau of divisions on the Russian Front: 235 Germang 20 Ordnance reports. Humanisn; 15 Italian; 10 Finnish: 10 Hingarian and Scheduled Deliveries reported by the Bureau of Ships: ) Slovak. Ships Builder Date Sazie ostimated to have lost between 750,000 and Coantal Mneswonper Herreshoff life. DISTANCE Company 10/27/41 800,000 non during the 21 days which followed 2 Coustal Idnessement Warren Boat Tard HEROTO Incorporated 10/30/41 October, in the Southern and Central Section, 11 Le Submarine Chaser Westergard Bost Works, Incorporated 11/ 1/41 reported. Subsarine Chaser Rice Brothers Corporation 11/1/11 Pills are being used to stimulate over-exerted Sast Nave] hospital authorised bed capacity In 21 hospitals troops to further exertions, it La reported. as of 3 October vas 9,333. The actual occupancy TM A new past Panter Division is reported to have left 8,227 or E6 pir cant. During the 1942 fiscal year the Reich ten days ago destined for General honsel, 1,853 - beds are planned, while in the 1963 fiscal Consunder of the German forces in Libya. year an additional 1,060 bed increase is planned, it Fall of Leningrad Le reported expected in the need 1a, reported, future. A suggestion by Delegate King that the Havy take up Although some shortage of can actorials La felt by the with the Governor of Hawaii the question of the Terri- Reich's war Ladustries, in general, they are reported to tory condeaning all fishery rights in defense project have sufficient supplier. Textiles are an exception. Not a single Soviet aircraft factory has yet (27 October) been captured by the Namin, it Ln reported. Government in Borlin expects Italy to collapse entirely by the month of February, at the latost and purhage by the end of December. This is due to war-waariness, under-nourishant and hatred of the Germans which is not only widespread but intense anong the Italian rank and file and is beginning to prevail in the Pareist Party, it La reported. Strategic survey of Asores reveals that one fourth to one-third of Portuguese any DOW garrisons islands. In group, island of Terceira (Asores Islands, Atlantic Ocean) has great strategic Importance by virtue of the aviation facilities and by virtue of opportunity pro- sented to. influence population of archipolago through Catholic Bishop residing there, it is reported. Breatlian Foreign Minister understood opposed to trans- for of Denish- ships (5 aggregating 19,545 tons of which largest is ARTSONA - 6,385 tons) to Panananian registry but believes can secure a decree for transfer to Breatlian registry with operation probably by Daniah crows. Proposes these ships be use: for transporting strategic alnorals to United States, 1% Le reported. ) BULLETIN 28 October 1941 Chinese still insist that four unidentified Japanese divisions are enroute to Manchuria from.Japan and that a like number are available in North China. Eleven Japanese transports arrived Saigon (Cochin China) 20 October carrying 48th division from Hainan (Kwang- tung Province, South China) or 4th Brigade from Tokyo, a Chinese source reports. According to British estimates Japanese will need at least four or six divisions for an offensive toward Kunming (Yunnanfu, China) and such a force has not been sent to Tonkin. 5,000 have been landed at Haiphong (French Indo-China) and 15,000 more are being landed without haste. Preparations being made for receiving 20,000 additional at later date, it is reported. Range of German 600-ton submarines reported such that they can make round trip between Bordeaux or St. Nazaire and Freetown without having to refuel. Refueling bases, however, said to be available to them in Canary, Cape Verde or Bissagoes (Bissages) Islands. Finnish military operations reported will be continued at least through the month of December. Leningrad is 2. J. reported undoubtedly in a state of famine. Casouflage to-day in different from that Ln the last Plans reported experiencing grest difficulty with loviet war. It. La only one element in deforme. It is suc- land alnes. Soviet prisoners are used in offorts to cossful as to defense from air sttack If it causes the discover then, These alnes are nade of wood in order to bomb aiser to healtate long enough to overshoot his escape balog discovered by sagnetic detectors. "dood-line". To have effectivo carouflage the back- American Brewster fighting planes were reported by ground must be watched carefully. Disruption or blood- afficer of Finnish General Staff AS magnificant. Log still La a baste aim. Reflections not be avoided wrk reported being rushed on trans-Irenian routee to where possible. with the introduction of indirect Mussia for trains and trucks that will transport daily observation - photographs - camouflage has to be good. average of 3000 tons of Brittsh and American supplies Shadowa revenl poor cancuflage. Photographic interpro- expected to 0 rrive In Persian Gulf starting soon. tation 10 becoming an art. The best techniques are Panamanian Government reported to have ordered all known by Havy and, are being exchanged with Any and Jaganese business establishmente including barber shops Civilian Defense. Studies have been sade of stere- to close 28 October in accordance with Nationalization oncopy, infra ned and color photography, carouflage of Conserce Law. materials and methods. The Black-out has been a Mexinan Foreign Mainter reported stating in the event jest of intensive study. Special attention has been United States goes to var "The Nexican Government will given to illumination control in passive defanse of know how to carry out its obligations under the Pan- Naval, Shore Activities and to passive defense against American Agreements with honor", incondisry attack. Special studies have been unde of ADRIRAL SCHER (Garman Panzerschiff 10,000 tons) re- structural cansuflage and of smoke screens of the type ported to have left floating drydock 24 October. Present of "for" reportally used by Cermane on the whereaboute unknown. Front, Confidential instructions and special Infor- Germans In requisition all wind-proof equipment. sation have been prepared covering these subjects, Lne Durses of larts and Docks reports, Dackeless power - the procurement of mokeless power is proceeding matisfactorily. The Bureau has requested DuPont to expedite delivery of the first lot of 20 ISS powder to supply early requirements for ammunition, the Burnes of Ordnance myports. Scheduled Keel Layings reported by the Burseu of Ships: Ships Indictor Date Inesweeper Pennsylvania Shipyards PILOT Incorporated - 11/1/11 Heavy-Hill Repair Los Angeles Shipbuild- Ship JASON Inc. and Drydock Corp. 11/1/11 2 Submarine Chasers Vinyard Shipbuilding Co. 10/30/41 Elizabeth City Shipyard. 10/28/h1 Subscrine HAKE Electric Boat Co. 1/11 Monday evening the Chief of Bureau of. Aeronautics accompanied by Rear Admiral Lyster, returned to Washing- ton after an inspection of the plants of Grunnan, Pratt and Whitney and Hamilton Standards, A large part of the production of these plants 1s being manufactured for Grest Britain, the Bureau of Aeronauties reports. The Bureau of Aeronautics reporte up- to the present time plant expansion contracts have been signed or letters of intent Issued in the aggregate amount of $128,891,000. Further plant expansion contracts are now pending Ln the estimated amount of $13,631,000. Light SEO Bureka Tank must Amphibian Rubber sot strike petter 52 STE 36, ST 564 T & : Confidential BULLETIN 27 October 1941 Total Enlisted Strength, 25 October ....... 278,211 Fleet Reservists (Enlisted) on Active Duty 9,833 Other Reservists " If If " 43,923 Retired l/en " 18 11 It 2,836 Total 56,592 Aggregate Anlistments (Last 24 hours) ..... 172 Aggregate Discharges If 11 II ..... 118 Gain 54 Naval Reserve Officers ordered to active duty for enforce- ment of neutrality and the S trengthening of the National Defense within the limits of Peace-time authorities, as of 25 October. Temp Ashore Character of Duty Ashore Afloat or Afloat Total Line Officers V-C Officers 2744 4103 1 6848 DE-V(S)-D-V(S),&E-V(S) 2061 248 1 2310 DE-F Officers 1 - - 1 Communication Officers 619 131 2 752 I-V(S) Officers 1161 7 2 1170 O-V(S) Officers 583 - I 583 L-V(S) Officers 51 - - 51 Probationary Officers 29 46 1 76 Merchant Marine 130 896 13 1039 taff Officers CEC-V Officers 672 - - 672 Sup Corps Officers 1019 354 1 1374 MC & DC Officers 1575 212 2 1789 CC-V Officers 92 1 1 94 CHC-V Officers 69 13 - 82 iviation Officers (Instr) Does not include A-V(N) 1099 11 - 1110 Retired Officers 39 2 - 41 I Total 11944 6024 24 17992 Confidential BULLETIN 27 October 1941 Germans reported to have at present (22 October) three or four times more tanks than the Russians. USSRs position will become "acute" if the Germans come to en- joy the same preponderance in the air. Russians hope to receive as many planes as possible at the earliest possible date. Soviet aircraft production has declined sharply because they have been obliged to move several of their most important airplane factories, it is reported. Italy reported 70% anti-Fascist and the beginnings of revolutionary ferment in Italy are reported. Italian Official reports no warning was given in raid on Naples, 21 October. Attack in seven waves lasted 5½ hours. Large fires destroyed entire streets of buildings, electric distribution center furnishing entire railroad* system of Naples area, paralyzed train service and destroyed half the windows in the city. Reported city has no lights and limited water supply. Finland reportedly will reduce a large part of its army at an early date. The remainder will be fully equipped for winter action to hold or gain "limited objectives". 2. 3. Council of Ministers In Turkey will issue decree Negotiations with Argentina reported appear to be further restricting movements of foreigners Ln Turkey, micing progress. especially those classifiel as tourists. Rail Up to 25 October recruiting is at the rate of 10,450. monedules to be revised to Insure passage through This le expected to be increased by the second of the allitary BONAR only by night. Although this will not sonth. The co-operation of the American Legion in this be additted, almod primarily at Germans. special drive has been of inestimable value. Prolint- Spenish food situation again becoming critical. If nary figures on the co-operation of the American Legion the shortage of petroleum products makes 16 necessary show that 1500 recruite resulted from this joint now to further reduce transportation facilities, the possi- cruiting activity. The two high states are Georgia bilities of Internal disorders must not be over-looked, with 173 recruits and Florida with 168, it La reported. Scheduled launchings reported by the Bureau of Shipst Government of France has taken no decision on changing Ships Launchings Dates status of France's African possessions and no con- 2 Coastal Minesweepers POWER Yoank Shipbuilding Co. 10/27/41 cessions have been granted to either the Reich or Italy FORTITUDE 1. A. Robinson, Inc. 10/30/41 1 Light Cruiser which would allow then to use France's air and naval CLEVELAND N.Y.Shipbuilding Corp. 11/1/41 1 Destroyer bases in Africa, Weygand is reported declaring. Bis LARYEY Bethlehen Steel Co., San Prancisco, 11/1/41 own personal status "renains the same", 2 Submarine Chasers Seabrook Yacht Corp. 10/26/41 Quincy Adams Yacht French ships reported left Dakar 20 October "for South Yard, Inc. 11/ 1/41 1 Submarine Colonies" in convoy: SAINT ERRIGETTE, VILLE de HAVRE, GROUPER Electric Boat Co. 10/27/41 TOURS, CHELMA, CORBET and CHOIX. The Bureau of Shipe reports ap of 15 October, the Alliance between Chile and United States suggested by estimated dates of completion during October, 19h1, Chileans since the war situation makes comon defense for LANDING FORCE EQUIPMENT now being built in absolutely necessary. Consercial Tards as follows: No. Type Date 188 36' Eureka Landing Boats 10/30/41 38 45' Tank Lighters - 16 delivered. 10/4/41 Balance at 6 per Mo. 46 45' Tank Lighters - 14 delivered 10/10/h1 Balance at 8 per Mo. 200 Amphibian Tractors- 26 completed by 10/ 4/41 Balance by 30 December 564 Rubber Boats 80 completed by 10/30/41 7 strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were settled during the week ending 25 October. 17 strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were till open and 11 strikes were continuing on which infor- nation relative to Naval Defense Contracts was not yet available as of 25 October. Business men in Illinois are reported objecting strenu- ously to the Illinois Tax Authorities contentions that they can tax a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract. Owing to "Illinois. tax mix-up" it is. understood the Nar Department has directed. some $200 million of contracts from Illinois to non-Illinois firms. Havy is collaborating with Army in connection with. this problem. Navy is interested in the case now before the Supreme Court, referred by Supreme Court of Alabama, involving right to apply a State's Sales Tax to a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract. This interest is based on a desire to reduce appropri- ations, Judge Advocate General's Office reports. / Tabe BULLETIN 24 October 1941 Russian officials reported not able to give United States representatives any. more information on military situation than is to be found in official communiques. British Wilitary Mission to Russia threatened, 21 October, to leave unless they were placed in touch with the proper military authorities of the U.S.S.R. Turks believe Soviets will hold out even if Moscow and Rostov fall. Faced with an organized front, re- gardless of how far East it may be situated, the Turks believe the Nazis would be unable to spare the troops that would be needed for a drive into the Middle and Near Eastern area, it. is reported. Japanese, who are considered better informed than anyone else on the conditions that actually prevail in the USSR do not expect the resistence offered by the Soviets. to collapse at an early date, it is reported. Moscow situation reported 21 October as follows: (1)- inhabitants urged to buy and store flour on sale in all quantities (2) other foodstuffs on sale in quantities larger than ration allotments (3) Public Service oper- ating (4) central agencies of Government moved to 2. 3. Kuibyahev and (5) city being mined. Chinese air force reported now completely inoffective 600 mile trip by American Rabaney representatives from with no immediate prospect of revival. Voscow to Fultyshev reported made in la days and 5 nights Total Defense ALC allocations to the liavy Department on under very trying conditions. Upon arrival their 30 September stood at $1,144,651,465 for a total of 359 quartors were not ruady. projects. This represents an increase or $38,548,384 in Vichy La a baroneter and any indications of German no- the size of the program nines 31 August. While this to- 000000 or cet-backs are reflected all too promptly by crease is mallor than provious months, Lt in to be - the ander officials in tide capital which is so Loolated. pected with only a small part of the original Defense Oursins non capitalizing there on their military Add Supplanental Appropriation restining unallocated, victorips. France La in a diloma. French fear "as soon the Office of Budget and Reports 1º ports. as the Runelan campaign has envied* they will be asked to Recent information from the United States Naval Attache offer to the Axis all the resources which they hold. Even for Air in London Indicates that the British will rely those of Potain's advisors who are most friendly to the greatly on the Grunsan fighter produced in this country U.S. are changing, 14 is reported. This may necessitate to meet Fleet Air Are needs. Although two new types of A change in the view point of Petain and his ministers, naral fighters are under development in England 1,6 1s it Le reported. anticipated that deliveries cannot be expected until WARRIOR (United States 7,551 tons) reported believed approximately October, 1942, the Burnau of Aeronautics torpedoed in South Atlantic, near position of I.C. WHITE. reports. .TEADLE (British tanker 9,552 tons) ruported nunk by Advantage will be taken of the opportunity of Adviral energy action 17 October in convoy. This 125,000 barrel Lyster's presence in this country to discuss with his tanker formarly owned by Standard Transport Company in cotail the program for the equipment with fighter arroneously reported to the press as Panasanian registry types of airplanes, of Briting carriers, and converted vas transforred to British registry in August last. morchant ship carriers. This equipment 16 being obtained nder the Lease-Lend Bill. he Bureau of Aeronautics will make nomination in the ear future of officers of suitable quali fications to omnand the Navel Air Stations at Johnston and Palmyra slands. The general situation in the Pacific and the trategic importance of these islands make it necessary increase the rank and the responsibilities of the ited States Naval Aviators assigned to command these sportant stations. 10 Ordnance requirements for the fiscal year 1943 are timated at $1,053,000 which compares with $1,025,438,665 propriated and requested for 1942, and it is expected at monthly expenditures in Haval Ordnance will reach 0,250,000 during 1943, as, compared to present expendi- res of $53,500,000, the Bureau of Ordnance reports. addition to the destroyer BRISTOL, completed is week, four other destroyers are due for completion is year, averaging almost four months ahead of con- act date. During 1942, seventy-one destroyers will completed, sixty-five of them on an average of seven the ahead of schedule, The other six have no con- act date of completion, the Bureau of Ships re- rts. Confidential BULLETIN 23 October 1941 21 October was an historic day for research for the Navy. On that day a submerged submarine was located repeatedly by a PBY airplane flying low over the sur- face of the ocean. An entirely new principal was used. Dr. Hunsacker was generous in his praise for the work done by the civilian group that has been told to find new ways "to get submarines". This same method can be used to locate submerged mines. It will be pushed with vigor. Two different types of projects are being undertaken by the Office of Co-ordinator of Research. The first involves continuing research projects on such things as under-water sound by working committees while the second involves studies on which a time limit has been set for conclusions to be reached and turned over to the Navy Department. The armor project is typical. It is Interesting and of importance to note these 00- ordinated research projects in which the Navy, the Army, industry, schools, independent laboratories and outstanding experts are engaged, give promise of easing the critical material situation. And this is 2. 3. only a by-product of the nain job. Conclusions must power. Blustering of the Japanese Press La mostly be in this calendar year on the Arnor project and the for Axis and home consumption, it in reported. other investigations of this type also have "dead Recall of American shipe from Chinese and Japanese lines", Dr. Hunsacker reports. waters, as well as other measures showing United States Programs La reported on interesting under-water sound in prepared to employ force, will have a. sobering of- research which will add to "our bag. of tricks". feet upon. official circles in Japan which are not yet After conferences with Admiral Lyster, Fifth Sea Lord, fully convinced that the Anglo-Amorican powers are Royal Navy, the Havy Department has agreed to divert ready to fight, it to reported. deliveries of Grussan carrier type of fighters in order TENUKANA MARU, reported arrived Lima, Pers, 20 October, that a total of forty-eight of these planes may be painted war colors, upper, structure darker than hull, available to outfit ILLUSTRIOUS and FORWIDABLE prior flage still on hull. Reported took 1,000 tons oil Mexico. to sailing, the Bureau of Aeronautics reports. Continued United States Aid to Turkey is recommended, Test dockings on the marine railway at the Naval 15 October. However, owing to the lack of serious 8PM Station, Key West, Florida, have been completed. The preciation with which the Turkish Government accepts marine railway operated satisfactorily in dooking a our difts, as though it has a right to them, it is re- submarine and can be considered 65 in full commission commended that the policy of imporsonal and distant and ready for service, the Bureau of Yards and Docks assistance be abandoned and they be impressed that (1) reports. we are rendering them great assistance (2) this will be The builder now estimates the date of completion of done only as long as they are united in the same policy the light cruiser ATLANTIC on December 31, 1941. with the democracies and (3) we have the right at any Seven other light cruisers will be completed in 1942, given moment to determine if their policy of soothing an average of eight months ahoad of contract date. the Germans would make us decide that we are gaining Japanese Navy reported afraid of Anglo-American Naval nothing by continuing our gifts, it is reported, Excessive losses of Italian merchant ships have placed Italy in serious position of supplying troops and equi- ment to North Africa. Due to lack of security by sea, important airplane parts are being sent by plane, it -is reported. Portugal forbids shipping for belligerents. This follows sinking of CORTE REAL by German submarine 12 October while enroute. Lisbon to New York, carrying transit cargo for Canadian destination. Berlin justi- fied sinking on that score. Both the air and military authorities of Brazil con- tinue to make sarcastic references to the American - assistance which was promised their country under the Lend-Lease Act. Even the President of Brazil (Vargas) - has now added his voice to the chorus, it is reported. Italians in Argentina have been advised it would not be possible to continue furnish aviation gas to Lati. INVERLEE (British) now reported sunk, 21 October. MS POLYPHEMUS (Netherlands 6,269 tons) reported week over-due at Balboa (Canal Zone) on voyage from Nether- land East Indies to New York with strategic cargo. GORIZIA (Italian light cruiser 10,000 tons) reported sunk, Confidential file BULLETIN 22 October 1941 The Truman Committee has requested of the Navy Clear- ing Office, facts concerning information that the Blaw Knox Company of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in connection with a contract for the renovation of the old Laughlin Works of the Carnegie Illinois Steel Corporation for the manufacture of anti-aircraft guns, intended. to do the work with CIO labor but ultimately agreed to sub- contract work with firms employing only A F of L labor. The Committee has asked particularly for information as to whether OPM or. "Board of Review" has made any recommendations "there-to" and the reasons advanced "therefor", it is reported. 14 strike cases affecting Naval Defense Contracts were settled during the week ending 18 October. 14 strike cases affecting Naval Defense. Contracts were still open and 9 strikes were continuing on which information relative to Naval Defense Contracts was not yet avail- able as of 18 October. Contracts for 47 million 20 mm Oerlikon anti-aircraft projectiles are about to be awarded to 16 contractors in quantities ranging from 50,000 to 12,500,000 shells. 2. 3. This represents & wide distribution of these contracts aviation fuel. Distribution of all fuel stocks has which have bien awarded to concerns in the twelve been placed in hands of Argentina Minister of Marine, following states: Buffalo and Brooklyn, liew York; Honroe, No reference to Argentina ethyl imports, available for Detroit and -ensing, Michigan; Louisville and ailmerding, stepping-up lower grade (NO, Le reported. Pennsylvania; Rahway, New Jersey; Fort Tayne, Indiana; German caspaign Ln Hassia reported to have created a Charlotte, North Carolina; St. Louis, Missouri; Los mojna serious gasoline situation in the Reich than has Angeles, California; Columbus, Ohio; Michita, Kannas; existed at any time since the war got under say. Quotas Chiongo, Illinois and Littleton, Colorado. of many industrial plants reduced 60% and many Individu- Incident to the delay in the tests of the first British al consumers have had their supplies cut off entirely. autogiro the plan to have tests of this craft on the Germans reported reinforeing troops in North Africa USS LONG ISLAND has been cancelled and the LONG ISLAND with one division of about 15,000 men, while the released from this particular duty, the Bureau of Aero- Italians were sending air reinforcements, neutice reports. Blerer more liberal British policy toward France and her The Bureau of Aeronautics has been advised by the Martin North African possessions reportedly will include (1) Company that it is hoped that the large Naval flying relaxing of the blockade of France (2) relaxing British boat PB2W-1, about to be completed at the Middle River, radio campaign against French Government (3) aske Saltimore, Maryland plant, will make its initial easier the shipment of goods to French North Africa flight on 8 November. from the United States. Civil Aeronautics Authority has reported it is advised British planes raided coastal town of Acireale, near Argentina production of gasoline does not have octane Catania, Sicily, 21 October, killing one person and count necessary for aviation and averages only about wounding five, it is reported. 370,000 gallons total a month. In consequence Argentina INVERLEE (aritish) now reported not sunk. Blown in Government gravely concerned with possible shortage of half. Tugs sent. KELVIN (British) reported torpedoed. and sunk 19 near Cape Trafalgar (S.W. Coast of Spain). esent there is no evidence of any U-boats in bean Sea (20 October), it is reported. - talian torpedo boats sunk in Central Mediterranean, as result of striking mines, it is reported. believed unlikely that Weygand will be removed North Africa, "under some pretext or other", it orted. tactics reported to continue in Colombia (South where negotiations for purchase of Italian started four months ago, it is reported. attack at Ichang (Hupeh Province, China), now by a reliable source, developed satisfactory, suddenly called off by Chungking "apparently" political r easons that the Chinese hope Japan operations against the Soviet in Far East if defense weakens in the West and the Chinese to await the outcome of Japanese-United States ences. From a military point of view, it was the Japanese would.shift rapidly from Changsha Province, China) area and strike vulnerable concentrations. Confidential BULLETIN 21 October 1941 Nazi success in Russia and German arguments that (1) the Reich is in possession of the European continent (2) with the Soviet resources, the Germans will be able to offset any Anglo-American attempt to excel them in weapons and war material (3) the British have proven they cannot move even after two years of warfare, be- lieved will have great influence on Vichy Government and French people, it is reported. Rumania reported intending to repatriate most of its troops (has about 300,000) now that Odessa has fallen. Rumanians believed to have captured little material or troops in Odessa. The Suez Canal is reported open but traffic is very small, according to the most recent report (16 October). KURIKKA (Panamanian 3,106 tons, tanker, ex-Finn) re- ported (18 October) seven days overdue Santos from Newport News. BOLD VENTURE (Panamanian 3,222 tens - United States owned, ex-Danish ALSSUND) believed sunk by enemy attack on convoy 16 October. A recommendation has been received to have all United 2. 1. States ships bound for the Red Sea painted dark before Commander Thomas B. Magath, MC-V(S), U.S.N.R. has re- their arrival there In order to make then less likely cently returned from a trip to the Tenth Naval District targets, it La reported. on which he visited San Juan, Hoosevelt Roads, St. TOA MARU arrived Buenos Aires 15 October from Japan via Thomas, Trinidad, Antigua, St. Lucia and British Guiana, Valparaiso with seventy-three cases of gold for Argentina looking into problems of sanitation at the Bases being believed valued at $10 million, of which 65 million La eatablished. Judging from his reports the sanitation to be use: to buy Argentine products. MAY indicate problem will be an invense one at all of the Bases Hupnos Aires to became center for Japanese activities particularly in regard to the Malaria problems. In Ln Western Hemisphere, it is reported. British Gulana the problem in not no acute because of New Japanese law for pensorship of all mail became of- the remoteness from hunan habitation. Another question footive 20 October. causing some concern in the difficulty of obtaining Strength of Soviet Far Eastern any estimated to be be- proper food. Her reports that refrigerating facilities twoen 35 and 40 divisions (about 18,000 non in 8. normal are lacking and that food brought down by supply ships division). Chinese have no information of any drastic has been spoiled in many cases before Lt could be used. reduction in this force, It is reported. This necessitates living on canned goods and dried Japanese Cabinet crisis was precipitated by arbitrary vegetables most of which are starchy. in nature. Un-of- transfer by General Tojo of four additional divisions Socially he has recomended that passe small supply of troops to Manchuria, contrary to wishes of Konoye. vessel. with propor refrigerating facilities make regular This produced open break in Cabinot foreing Konoye to trips to those Bases carrying fresh fruits and vegetables resign, it La reported. Japanese strength In Manchuria as well as neate and, that proper cold storage is net at 33 divisions (approximately 495,000 men). A facilities be provided on shore at all of the Bases an northward govement by Japanese is predicted within two rapidly as possible. weeks (of 19 October). The ceremonies for. the Commissioning of the HORNET yester- b. day were impressive. The Secretary's "earnest" speech was most favorably received. Observers enjoyed the clock-like precision of the ceremony and left with the impression that this was, the way the ship would be oper- ated. The seamen's eyes were "popping" at the newness, the size and the beauty of the ship, it is. reported. Scheduled launchings reported by the Bureau of Ships; Ships Launchings Dates 2 Coastal Minesweepers SKIPPER H. 0. Marr 10/20/41 VALOR Snow Shipyards Inc. 10/25/41 1 Light Cruiser JUNEAU Federal S.B. & D.D. Co. 10/25/41 5 Submarine Chasers Seabrook Yacht Corp. 10/19/41 Consolidated S.B. Corp. 10/25/h1 Quincy Adams Yacht Yd.Inc. 10/25/41 Elizabeth City Shipyard 10/25/41 Peterson Boat Works 10/25/41 2 Submarines HADDOCK Navy Yard Portsmouth 10/20/41 TRIGGER Navy Yard Mare Island 10/22/41 -To conserve space, a central supply section has been established outside of the Department Building. Sup- plies in the building will be kept to a minimum. Also, a central distribution point near washington is being established from which Navigation, Yards and Docks, Aeronautics and perhaps other Bureaus will make dis- tribution of bulky periodicals, etc. to Navy establish- ments and the Fleet, it is reported. Confidential LLETIN 20 October 1941 Total Enlisted Strength, 18 October, ..... 276,649 Fleet Reservists (Enlisted) on Active Duty 9,807 Other Reservists " " 11 If 42,878 Retired Men 11 If It " 2,782 Total ...... 55,467 Aggregate Enlistments (Last 24 hours) ..... 179 Aggregate Discharges II 11 " ..... 72 Gain 107 Naval Reserve Officers ordered to active duty for enforce- ment of neutrality and the strengthening of the National Defense within the limits of peace-time authorities, as of 18 October. Temp Ashore Character of Duty Ashore Afloat or Afloat Total Line Officers V-G Officers 2750 4089 1 6840 DE-V(S),D-V(S) & E-V(S) 2043 241 1 2285 DE-F Officers 1 - - 1 Communication Officers 615 131 2 748 I-V(S) Officers 1155 8 2 1165 O-V(S) Officers 582 - - 582 L-V(S) Officers 49 - - 49 Probationary Officers 29 46 1 76 Merchant Marine 130 895 13 1038 Staff Officers CEC-V(S) Officers 669 - - 669 Sup Corps Officers 1017 353 2 1372 MC and DC Officers 1577 211 2 1790 CC-V(S) and (G) Officers 92 - 1 93 CHC-V Officers 67 13 - 80 Aviation Officers (Instr) (Does not include A-V(N) 1093 11 - 1104 Retired Officers 37 2 - 39 11906 6000 25 17931 Confidential BULLETIN 17 October 1941 The Navy announced that the Destroyer USS KEARNY was torpedoed this morning on patrol duty about 350 miles South and west of Iceland. No casualties are reported and the ship is reported proceeding under her own power. Diplomatic Corps and Government reported leaving Moscow for Kuibyshev; expected to arrive there about 18 October. Two Secretaries of American Ambassy re- maining in Moscow to protect American property. Direct Press. communication with Moscow has been inter- rupted for twenty-four hours, it is reported. "Only a miracle" can keep Japan out of war... The Pacific cannot remain static. hope for improvement is gone, the Honolulu Adviser is reported "predict- ing" to-day. Consensus of American Missionaries and business men in the Far East is reported by U. P. as being "the time has come for real action if American interests in the Orient are to be maintained". Radio Berne is reported saying "a broadcast from 2. 3. Bankok (Sian) warned the population of Thailand to Powers in the event that the British fail to take not- prepare for all eventualities-- Thailand is facing a ion in Libya. Theyare report di particularly worried serious situation". over this taking place upon the conclusion of the can- Hugh Grant recently resigned Minister to Thailand Le paign in Russia. They assert that it will be impossible reported an saying to-day be thought Japan was playing to dislodge the Germans once they get into Tunisia. "the old bluffing Case to keep the United States Mexican Havy to patrol nine miles to sea reported agitated and Its attention away from Europe". "results" from United States recognition of Rextean Hitler in reported calling the Heads of Secret and action in halting an Aserican ship within nine mile regular police from all parts of the Reich and limit. various occupied areas to report on conditions. Un- One thousand photographs a day are being hendled by confirmed rumors have Himler, Head of the Gestapo (1) the Pictorial Section of the Office of Public No- -under house arrest (2) sick (3) executed. lations in connection with requests for publication. Nazie reported bringing heavy pressure on King of During the fiscal year 1939-1940 only seven thousand Bulgaria, to participate in the war. The King is ro- pictures were handled during the entire year. Both ported making every effort to avoid the Lasue and at the quality and quantity of the pictures are report- the sane time to conciliate the Mazio by making con- od Laproved due to the splendid co-operation of cessions many of which are comparatively unimportant. Bureaus, particularly that of Recruiting, Bureau of Concentrations of Nasi Forces in Sicily are again Navigation and the Bureau of Aeronautics which are reported, 14 October. the largest users of pictures. Officials friendly to the Anglo-Saxon Powers are report- The Bureau of Aeronautics reports that the Any La ed concerned over. the fact that the question of using *exerting every effort to give the highest priority local bases (Tunis) will be re-opened by the Axis to the delivery of twenty Lockhood planos which are 4. - to be diverted from the British and assigned to the Navy for probable duty in Iceland. - The Bureau of Aeronautics reports it is co-operating very closely with Doctor Compton of Massachusetts Institute of Technology on the development of radar. It is planned to assign a special airplane and pilot to Navy Air Station, Squantum, with the idea that this plane will be primarily available for experimental development in radar now under investigation at. MIT. "Ivan the Terrible the Caustic Cossack", "Bill the Blaster" and "Harassing Harry" and other "radio ghosts" are being given increased space in our news- papers. This type of heckling domestic radio pro- grams on, the Continent has been in use for at least a a year. The recent exchange of repartee between Virginia Gayda and an English voice as reported from Rome is believed to be a "phony" - it was too perfect. It would have been possible for the Fascists, as a part of their counter-propaganda program, to have staged this performance using the March of Time tech- nique or merely to have reported it has happened so as to get space in United States and other newspapers. Confidential BULLETIN 16 October 1941 Don Nelson was particularly effective in his off-the- record talk at the Press Club to-day. "We need more men like that" is typical of the remarks. He said SPAB was receiving full co-operation from the Army and Navy in regard to "alleged" copper "hordings". Negotiations are under way with the supplier of RADAR equipment to furnish qualified civilian field engineers for the installation, maintenance and modification of this equipment. The specialized service represented by these men, which will supplement that of the Navy, will - be strategically located as to provide expert advice and assistance to all Naval Activities, the Bureau of Supplies and Accounts reports. All Navy Activities have been requested to utilize existing supplies and equipment and to trensfer surplus- es to Procurement for re-issue where needed. $1.1 billion was authorized during the past fiscal year for an "un-precedented expansion" of the Naval Shore Es- tablishment. In this period 712 contracts involving Navy Shore Astablishment construction were awarded at a cost of $603,199,632. From the close of the past fiscal year