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Notable events involving Tang include:

The page dealing with the wartime history of USS Tang was created in July 2025. [No deck logs of this submarine are currently available to us so therefore some details, particularly regarding trials and exercises, might be missing on this page.]

23 Nov 1943
From 23 to 27 November 1943, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted trials / exercises off San Francisco.

29 Nov 1943
From 29 November to 1 December 1943, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted trials / exercises off San Francisco.

5 Dec 1943
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed the Mare Island Navy Yard for San Diego.

Most likely she is escorted but we have been unable to identify the vessel which escorted her.

At some point during the passage, most likely in the morning of the 6th, USS Kennison (T/Lt.Cdr. R.E. Babb, USN) joined to take over the escort duties.

USS Tang and USS Kennison arrived at San Diego later on the 6th.

7 Dec 1943
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS Kennison (T/Lt.Cdr. R.E. Babb, USN) and USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR).

8 Dec 1943
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR).

9 Dec 1943
During 9/10 December 1943, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS Kennison (T/Lt.Cdr. R.E. Babb, USN) and USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR). These included night exercises.

11 Dec 1943
During 11/12 December 1943, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS Kennison (T/Lt.Cdr. R.E. Babb, USN) and USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR). These included night exercises.

13 Dec 1943
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR).

14 Dec 1943
During 14/15 December 1943, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR). These included night exercises.

16 Dec 1943
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR).

17 Dec 1943
During 17/18 December 1943, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR). These included night exercises.

19 Dec 1943
During 19/20 December 1943, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off San Diego with USS PC-783 (Lt. H.E Ellis, USNR). These included night exercises.

On completion of the night exercises on the 20th, USS Kennison (T/Lt.Cdr. R.E. Babb, USN) joined and then USS Tang departed for San Francisco (Mare Island Navy Yard) escorted by USS Kennison.

22 Dec 1943
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) arrived at the Mare Island Navy Yard from San Diego.

Earlier that day, her escort from San Diego, USS Kennison (T/Lt.Cdr. R.E. Babb, USN) had been relieved off the Farallon Islands by USS PC-620 (Lt. E.C. Reich, USNR).

2 Jan 1944
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed San Francisco for Pearl Harbor.

2 Jan 1944
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed San Francisco for Pearl Harbor.

8 Jan 1944
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) arrived at Pearl Harbor from San Francisco.

10 Jan 1944
USS Sunfish (T/Cdr. E.E. Shelby, USN) and USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Greenlet (Lt. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR).

11 Jan 1944
During 11/12 January 1944, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Wyman (Lt.Cdr. R.W. Copeland, USNR). These included night exercises.

13 Jan 1944
From 13 to 15 January 1944, USS Spearfish (T/Cdr. J.W. Williams, Jr., USN), USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Wyman (Lt.Cdr. R.W. Copeland, USNR). Convoy attack exercises were also scheduled but apparently the incoming convoy was not sighted.

17 Jan 1944
USS Nautilus (T/Cdr. W.D. Irvin, USN) and USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Greenlet (Lt. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR).

18 Jan 1944
During 18/19 January 1944, USS Nautilus (T/Cdr. W.D. Irvin, USN) and USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Greenlet (Lt. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR). These included night exercises.

22 Jan 1944
USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed from Pearl Harbor for her first war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Mariana / Caroline Islands area. En-route she was also to patrol off Wake Island. (1)

29 Jan 1944
From 29 January 1944 to 5 February 1944, USS Tang (T/Lt.Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) patrolled of Wake Island also being standby for air/sea rescue duties during air strikes on 30 January and 5 February but her services were not required. On release from her duties USS Tang was ordered to patrol north of Truk. (1)

17 Feb 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane) torpedoed and sank the Japanese army cargo ship Gyoten Maru (6854 GRT, built 1943) about 130 nautical miles west-north-west of Truk in position 08°04'N, 149°28'E.

Gyoten Maru was in convoy with the transports Ryuko Maru (2764 GRT, built 1942), Shinkyo Maru (5204 GRT, built 1918), Tatsuha Maru (5697 GRT, built 1918), Zuikai Maru (2827 GRT, built 1943). They were escorted by the destroyer Fujinami, frigate Amakusa, submarine chaser CH-31, minelayer Natsushima and auxiliary minesweeper Hagoromo Maru

0025K/17 - In position 08°10'N, 149°07'E, obtained radar contact bearing 305° at a range of 31000 yards. Commenced tracking. This gave a speed of 8.5 knots on a base course of 100° as a result.

The convoy was thought to consist of two fairly large tranports, a small one later thought to be a destroyer and five other escorts. USS Tang tried to gain a position ahead.

0219K/17 - When nearly ahead of the convoy at a range of 15000 yards the starboard flanking escort suddenly appeared at a range of 7000 yards and closing. Tang went deep and five depth charges were dropped. 15 minutes later Tang was at radar depth. The convoy was now 9000 yards away and still closing nicely.

0335K/17 - In position 08°04'N, 149°28'E fired four bow torpedoes at the nearest, large, transport from 1500 yards. Three hits were obtained. The target was seen to sink amidst the milling escorts.

After the ship was seen to sink, USS Tang went deep and commenced to clear the area. A few depth charges were dropped but they were not close.

0500K/17 - Did a radar sweep and than surfaced. There were still ships in sight on the radar screen and a large, escorted, contact was 14000 yards away. It was tracked on course 300° at 7 knots. The ship was chased but during the next hours the range never came closer than 6000 yards and reluctantly the chase had to be broken off as an end around was not possible due to the three ship strong escort as well as a escorting aircraft.

Tang then proceeded to take up her position for air/sea rescue duties during Operation Hailstone, the large scale air attacks on Truk. (2)

20 Feb 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed the Truk area to patrol off Saipan. (1)

22 Feb 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) attacked a Japanese convoy and torpedoed and sank the Japanese auxiliary gunboat Fukuyama Maru (3581 GRT, built 1937) about 60 nautical miles south-west of Saipan in position 14°47'N, 144°50'E.

She was in convoy with the auxiliary repair ship Yamashimo Maru (6777 GRT, built 1938), another (unidentified) transport and two or more (unidentified) escorts. The convoy was en-route from Saipan to Yokosuka.

2200K/22 - In position 15°14'N, 145°12'E obtained radar contact at 14000 yards. Commenced tracking and soon five ships were on the radar screen with another group of vessels sometimes visible to the the north of this group. The convoy was proceeding westwards (290°) at 9 knots.

Due to rain squalls it was not possible to identify the size of the targets by radar due to the interference. So closed to identify them and than attack.

The convoy was seen to be made up of three transports which were escorted by a destroyer and at least three smaller escorts.

2349K/22 - In position 14°47'N, 144°50'E, fired four bow torpedoes from 1500 yards. The enemy disintegrated as all four hit.

Meanwhile one of the escorts was only 3000 yards away so Tang temporary retired to make another approach for another attack later.

[For the continuation of events see 23 February 1944.] (2)

23 Feb 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese auxiliary repair ship Yamashimo Maru (6777 GRT, built 1938) west of Saipan in position 14°45'N, 144°32'E.

[Continuation of events of 22 February 1944.]

Another approach was than made but the selected target turned out to be a destroyer so the approach on this target was broken off at a range of 2900 yards.

A new approach on another target was subsequently started which turned out to be a naval auxiliary.

0120K/23 - In position 14°45'N, 144°32'E, fired four bow torpedoes, which had in the meantime been reloaded, from 1400 yards. Three hits were obtained. On the third torpedo hitting the enemy forward of the bridge there was a terrific explosion which even caused some minor damage to USS Tang.

After this attack another approach was made on the convoy but only three escort vessels were encountered which were not attacked. (2)

24 Feb 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) attacked a small Japanee convoy and torpedoed and sank the Japanese merchant cargo ship Echizen Maru (2424 GRT, built 1907) west of Saipan in position 15°45'N, 143°29'E.

1109K/24 - In position 15°30'N, 143°00'E, smoke was sighted bearing 015° and immediately two targets were picked up by the SJ radar at ranges of 23000 yards and 24000 yards respectively. The enemy was later seen to be a tranport, a large tanker and an escorting destroyer. Tracking showed them to be on course 270°. Tang moved out to 27000 yards to avoid detection and commenced an end around. Later the enemy were plotted on a base course of 165° and tracking showed them steering very erratically sometimes even backtracking.

2230K/24 - In position 15°16'N, 143°12'E, fired four stern torpedoes from 1400 yards at the transport which was thought to be a large one of about 7000 GRT. Three hits were obtained and the ship was seen to sink rapidly. The tanker opened fire while the destroyer, than 3000 yards away, closed rapidly while firing shells in every direction. The destroyer then dropped depth charges near the position of the attack, which would certainly not help any possible survivors in the water, and then joined the tanker.

Tang retired for the moment but continued to track the enemy to make another attack later.

[For the continuation of events see 25 February 1944.] (2)

25 Feb 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese auxiliary store ship Choko Maru (1790 GRT, built 1924) west of Saipan in position 15°46'N, 144°10'E.

Choko Maru was an engine aft ship thus resembling a tanker.

[Continuation of events of 24 February 1944.]

0548K/25 - Submerged to radar depth at a range of 7000 yards and commenced an approach.

0606K/25 - The target (tanker) was sighted as was her escort which was thought to be an Asashio-class destroyer. The destroyer was patrolling closely ahead of the tanker.

0639K/25 - In position 15°50'N, 144°21'E, fired four stern torpedoes from only 500 yards. Three hits were obtained and the ship was seen to sink by the stern in four minutes.

Tang than went deep also taking evasive action and depth charging started almost immediately afterwards but none were very close. The destroyer remained hunting in the area for the remainder of the day keeping USS Tang down. Tang meanwhile set course to the northward as she was now to patrol off the lower Bonin Islands. There were four torpedoes left on board. (2)

26 Feb 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) attacked a large enemy tranport in a Japanese convoy to the west of the northern Mariana Islands, in position 17°48'N, 143°40'E. Four torpedoes were fired but all missed astern.

1545K/26 - In position 18°10'N, 143°00'E, smoke was sighted which quickly developed into a four ship convoy. Commenced tracking. Enemy course was 160° at 9 knots. Later they changed course to 090°.

Before attacking Tang remained outside a range of 10000 yards until moonset. One of the ships in the convoy was seen to be a large two-stacker which was selected as target. The convoy was in the meantime seen to be made up of three transports and four escorts.

2241K/26 - In position 17°48'N, 143°40'E, fired the last four bow torpedoes at the two-stacker from 1700 yards. No hits were obtained, all torpedoes missed astern as the enemy had apparently increased speed which had not been noticed. The target was thought to be the Horai Maru (This ship had been sunk in 1942 so this was not possible). Tang evaded the escorts on the surface after this attack. She was challenged by one of them which must have thought the submarine was one of her consorts.

Tang send a contact report and now out of torpedoes set course for Midway. (1)

3 Mar 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) ended her first war patrol at Midway.

13 Mar 1944
During 13/14 April 1944, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off Midway with USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR). These included night exercises. (3)

16 Mar 1944
Around 0655Y/16, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed from Midway for her second war patrol. She was ordered to patrol off Palau.

23 Mar 1944
At 0512L/23, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN), west of the Northern Mariana Islands, in position 18°40'N, 148°30'E, sighted a trawler on patrol. This is thought to be a Japanese picked boat and she was evaded on the surface. (4)

28 Mar 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) arrived in her patrol area to the west of Palau to perform air/sea rescue duties during scheduled air strikes in the Palau area. (4)

29 Mar 1944
At 1823I/29, just prior to surfacing in position 07°10'N, 133°35'E (west of Palau), USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted a thin raked mast which was then approached submerged until dark at 6 knots. The contact could not be closed sufficiently before dark to identify it.

At 1857I/29, USS Tang surfaced and continued tracking the target while gaining a position ahead. At 7000 yards the target was seen to be small on the radar screen.

A 1950I/29, In the lightning the target was seen to be a patrol vessel. Six aircraft, in two groups of three arrived on the scene and started an A/S patrol for which USS Tang had to dive. The approach was then broken off and course was set to clear the area. The patrol vessel was joined by another patrol vessel during this time. (4)

2 Apr 1944
At 2000I/29, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) left her patrol area to proceed to a new patrol area, between 120 to 150 nautical miles to the east of Davao, Mindanao, Philippines. (4)

6 Apr 1944
At 2100I/6, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed her patrol area to the east of Davao to proceed to a new area to the north-west of Palau. (4)

10 Apr 1944
At 1030I/10, north-west of Palau, in position 08°25'N, 134°05'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted a single mast and deck house of what is thought to be a patrol craft type vessel proceeding to the north-east at a speed of at least 15 knots. (4)

22 Apr 1944
At 2040I/22, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed her patrol area off Palau to proceed to patrol off Truk where she was to conduct air/sea rescue duties during upcoming air strikes (4)

27 Apr 1944
At 0900K/27, south-east of Puluwat, in position 06°50'N, 148°50'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) was forced down by an enemy aircraft and at the same time smoke was sighted on the horizon at a range of about 30000 yards. There appeared to be two sources of smoke which tracked on a westerly course at a speed of about 10 knots.

USS Tang tried to make an end around but was forced down five timed by enemy aircraft the last of which had certainly detected the submarine as she strafed the water with bullets and also a bomb appeared to have been dropped but no explosion followed.

Reluctantly the chase had to be broken off as USS Tang needed to be off Truk the following day for air/sea rescue duties. (4)

30 Apr 1944
During air/sea rescue duties off Truk, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) rescued two USN aviators from the sea. (4)

1 May 1944
At 0600K/1, in position 07°00'N, 151°45'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted the conning tower of Japanese submarine proceeding south around Kuop from the Otta-pass. Tang submerged and commenced an approach. The enemy was tacked on a course of 180° at 12 knots. When the range was 3000 yards sound contact was suddenly lost and a look through the periscope made it clear that the enemy had dived due to American aircraft being overhead. Tang went to 150 feet and ran for silent running but no contact could be obtained with the enemy submarine which was thought to be an RO type vessel. The following Japanese submarines of the Ro-100-class were in the Truk area on this day; RO-106, RO-108 and RO-115 (offsite links).

USS Tang also rescued 20 USN naval aviators from the water on this day. (5)

6 May 1944
At 0300K/6, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed her patrol area to proceed to Pearl Harbor. (4)

15 May 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) ended her second war patrol at Pearl Harbor. She had on board twenty-two aviators she had rescued during air-attacks on Truk.

3 Jun 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises of Pearl Harbor.

4 Jun 1944
During 4/5 June 1944, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises of Pearl Harbor. These included night exercises.

8 Jun 1944
Around 1330VW/8, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN) departed from Pearl Harbor for their third and first war patrols respectively.

Both were to proceed to Midway first to top off with fuel and provisions and voyage repairs if required before proceeding to their patrol areas.

Both were ordered to patrol in the East China and the Yellow Seas. (6)

12 Jun 1944
Around 0800Y/12, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) arrived at Midway from Pearl Harbour. She was followed around 1015Y/12 by USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN).

After topping off with fuel and provisions and some minor voyage repairs, both departed in company for patrol around 1600Y/12. Most likely they parted company rather quickly. (6)

23 Jun 1944
Around 0355I/23, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN) made rendezvous south of the Kusagaki Islands. They made arrangement in which area they were both to patrol before they parted company again. (6)

24 Jun 1944
Around 0100I/24, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Tinosa (T/Cdr. D.F. Weiss, USN) made rendezvous to the south of the Danjo Islands.

Around 0250I/24, USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN) also joined.

They parted company aroound 0400I/24, having made arrangements about patrolling in the area. USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN) made rendezvous south of the Kusagaki Islands. They made arrangement in which area they were both to patrol before they parted company again. (7)

24 Jun 1944
At 0808I/24, south of Fukue Island, in position 32°04'N, 128°50'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted a small enemy patrol boat which was evaded submerged. (8)

24 Jun 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese army cargo ships Tamahoko Maru (6780 GRT, built 1919) and Kennichi Maru (1938 GRT, built 1943), the Japanese merchant tanker Nasusan Maru (4399 GRT, built 1931) and the Japanese merchant cargo ship Tainan Maru (3450 GRT, built 1897) south-west of Nagasaki, Kyushu, Japan in position 32°24'N, 129°38'E.

USS Tang fired a total of six torpedoes, three each at two ships which they both claimed by two torpedoes each and having been sunk. Apparently four ships sank during this attack.

Apparently there were seven more ships in this convoy which was on passage from Takao, Formosa to Japan. It was escorted by the minelayer Aotaka, frigates Kaibokan 1, Kaibokan 20 and an auxiliary A/S vessel. According to the patrol report of USS Tang much more escorts were present. More escorts may thus have joined when the convoy arrived in Japanese waters.

2140I/24 - In position 32°06'N, 129°38'E, obtained radar contact on a large convoy at a range of 20000 yards. It had just emerged from Koshiki Strait.

Speeds and courses of the convoy varied in the beginning so a contact report of the convoy's position only was signalled. USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN) acknowledged.

2220I/24 - Having now tracked the convoy on courses between 315° and 270° and at speeds between 10 and 16 knots answered the request of USS Tinosa (T/Cdr. D.F. Weiss, USN) for this info.

2227I/24 - Send the latest course as being 280° at 12 knots.

Tang was in what first appeared to be a favourable position on the convoy's port bow, with a three day old moon about to set, but as numerous bow and flanking escorts appeared on the radar screen it became evident that undetected penetration from ahead or from the flank would be nearly impossible.

The composition of the convoy, which had been confused by numerous escorts, could now be clarified by visual sighting. There were six large ships in column sections of two, surrounded by two circular screens of at least six escorts east. Later it was discovered that there were additional escorts ahead and astern.

As the quarter escorts were well dispersed, Cdr. O'Kane elected to approach from the stern and Tang eventually gained a position 2500 yards on the starboard beam of the last section of the convoy. The leading ship was a large modern four mast or goalpost freighter with high composite superstructure topped by a large short stack. The second ship was a modern tanker with a large short funnel. Both ships were heavily laden and most probably diesel driven as they did not smoke. The convoy, now close to Nomomachi had settled on a northerly course at 10 knots.

2353I/24 - In position 32°30'N, 129°35'E, fired three bow torpedoes at the large freighter from 2600 yards. Two hits were obtained and the ship in the stern and amidships. This were the first and third torpedoe fired. The second torpedo ran erratically to the left. It looked like the torpedoes blew the sides out of the ship and she began to sink rapidly.

2354I/24 - In position 32°30'N, 129°35'E, fired three bow torpedoes at the large tanker from 2450 yards. Two hits were obtained. This were the fourth and firth torpedoes fired which hit underneath the stack and just forward of the aft superstructure. The tankers whole aft end erupted in flames until the fire was extinguished when the tanker began to sink, stern first.

0001I/25 - Tang had now evaded the closest escort at 1400 yards apparently unobserved, so pulled up 7000 yards from the convoy and 5000 yards from where the previous targets would have been. Their pips, separating from the convoy had gradually disappeared from the radar screen. A low cloud of smoke marked the spot where they sank.

0015I/25 - a message was sent to USS Tinosa (T/Cdr. D.F. Weiss, USN) and USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN) stating that Tang was trailing and giving details on the set-up of the convoy. On request of USS Sealion (ii) the message was repeated twenty minutes later.

0020I/25 - Started another attack. The approach was however spoiled by an escort which closed to 1500 yards as Tang passed the vicinity of the first attack but he was unable to see the submarine in the haze. The escort then started dropping depth charges. The escort then passed astern at 1600 yards and was seen to be a modern looking frigate. He then sighted the submarine which then made off at 22.5 knots and was able to increase the range to 3400 yards and the enemy apparently lost sight of the submarine. Tang than dived and the enemy escort passed well clear echo ranging madly.

0200I/25 - Surfaced and commenced to clear the area as it would most likely be heavily patrolled during the remainder of the day. (9)

25 Jun 1944
At 1900I/25, south-west of Cape Noma, Kyushu, Japan, in position 31°21'N, 130°04'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted a northbound enemy patrol vessel through the periscope at a range of 12000 yards. It was evaded. (10)

26 Jun 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) attacked an enemy transport with four torpedoes south-south-west of Cape Bono in position 31°12'N, 130°12'E. No hits were obtained.

0424I/26 - In position 31°12'N, 130°15'E, obtained radar contact on a single ship at a range of 8000 yards. The target was subsequently seen to be a medium sized merchant vessel hugging the coast at 8 knots. Dived 1000 yards of the enemy's track at a range of 7000 yards. An attack was commenced.

0551I/26 - In position 31°12'N, 130°12'E, fired four stern torpedoes from 1950 yards. Two torpedoes broached several times and were than seen to run on the surface throwing plumes of water into the air. The enemy was able to avoid the torpedoes which all four exploded on the coast beyond. Enemy course was 090° at 8 knots on firing.

0640I/26 - Surfaced and proceeded westwards at full speed to clear the area remaining unsighted by a patrol boat (trawler-type vessel) which had just arrived in the area. (10)

27 Jun 1944
At 2000I/27, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) proceeded to the north-west for a coordinated patrol on the suspected Shimonoseki - Shanghai convoy route together with USS Tinosa (T/Cdr. D.F. Weiss, USN) and USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN). (10)

28 Jun 1944
At 2000I/28, in position 31°52'N, 127°52'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted three lighted fishing sampans which were evaded. (10)

29 Jun 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) attacked the Japanese transport Nikkin Maru (5587 GRT, built 1920) with two torpedoes in the Yellow Sea in position 34°27'N, 124°35'E. Both torpedoes missed, thought to have run under. The transport than counter attacked with some depth charges.

1140I/29 - In position 34°30'N, 124°50'E, a freighter was sighted to the north proceeding westwards (course 265°) at 8 knots. Commenced approach but later opened the range, surfaced and commenced an end around.

1600I/29 - Having now tracked the enemy on course 255° at 7 knots dived directly on his track for a periscope attack. The enemy was lightly loaded.

1759I/29 - In position 34°27'N, 124°35'E, fired two bow torpedoes from 1600 yards. Both torpedoes apparently ran under. They had been set to 10 feet due to the state of the sea and the experience with the surface runners on the 26th. The enemy then turned towards and dropped two close depth charges shortly after USS Tang had reached 200 feet, 50 feet from the bottom.

1910I/29 - On returning the periscope depth a third close depth charge was dropped so Tang immediately went down again.

1925I/29 - Surfaced.

2030I/29 - Regained radar contact and commenced tracking. The enemy had changed course to the north on course 040° and then 070° at 10 knots heading for the Korean coast. Cdr. O'Kane decided to make a surface attack after moonset.

[For the continuation of events see 30 June 1944.] (9)

30 Jun 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese Japanese transport Nikkin Maru (5587 GRT, built 1920) in the Yellow Sea off Mokpo, Korea in position 35°05'N, 125°08'E.

Nikkin Maru was transporting over 3200 troops. There were no survivors.

[Continuation of events of 30 June 1944.]

0040I/30 - Commenced attack from the enemy's starboard bow. Tang stopped at a range of 1500 yards.

0101I/30 - In position 35°03'N, 125°08'E, fired a bow torpedo from 750 yards. It hit amidships. It broke the transports back and she sank quickly.

0130I/30 - Proceeded westwards to clear the area.

1 Jul 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese tanker Takatori Maru No.1 (909 GRT, built 1928) off Mokpo, Korea in position 34°21'N, 123°55'E and the Japanese merchant cargo ship Taiun Maru No.2 (1044 GRT, built 1911) in position 34°47'N, 124°13'E.

0705I/1 - Sighted a sampan in position 34°37'N, 124°36'E. Closed and then surfaced at 0946I/1 to look him over. Fired four rounds of 4" before he lowered his sails. Before he could be further investigated a lookout sighted smoke on the horizon in position 34°37'N, 124°36'E

Commenced tracking the smoke which quickly developed into two columns. Later the masts of two ships came into sight. After gaining a position ahead the ships had meanwhile been tracked on a base course of 260° at 8 knots.

1322I/1 - Dived to complete the approach. One ships was thought to be a freighter and the other an auxiliary escort. Decided to attack the escort first. It was thought the escort was a converted small engine aft freighter with a gun forward and depth charges aft.

1444I/1 - In position 34°27'N, 123°46'E, fired two stern torpedoes from 1300 yards. At least one torpedo hit and the ship sank rapidly. The ships stern was seen in the air in a cloud of smoke. The freighter turned back.

A contact report was than send to USS Tinosa (T/Cdr. D.F. Weiss, USN) and USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN). Tang meanwhile continued to trail the freighter submerged at a speed of 5 knots.

1916I/1 - Submerged at dusk and commenced overtaking the target at full power on three engines, charging on the fourth. After radar contact on the target had been gained it became apparent that the enemy must be passed up moon. Stopped charging and went to full power on all four engines to gain a position ahead in time.

2224I/1 - Dived 1200 yards to the north of the track of the enemy who was now 6000 yards away. It was noticed that the enemy slowed down from 11 to 9 knots.

2247I/1 - In position 34°33'N, 125°12'E, fired two bow torpedoes from 500 yards. The first torpedo hit and the target exploded. It is thought the cargo must have been ammunition.

2251I/1 - Surfaced close to the debris and then set course to proceed 60 miles to the west.

2 Jul 1944
At 1007I/2, in position 34°54'N, 124°08'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted the masts of two motor trawlers at a range of 12000 yards. (10)

3 Jul 1944
Around 2250I/3, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Sealion (ii) (T/Cdr. E.T. Reich, USN) made rendezvous. On parting company it had been decided that USS Sealion (ii) would patrol off Shanghai and that USS Tang would proceeded northwards. (11)

4 Jul 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese merchant cargo ships Asukasan Maru (6886 GRT, built 1944) in position 35°22'N, 125°56'E and later the Yamaoka Maru (6932 GRT, built 1944) in position 36°05'N, 125°48'E.

0408I/4 - In position 35°35'N, 125°51'E, sighted the heavy masts of a ship to the north-east.

Put the enemy astern and determined his approximate southerly course. Worked up to full power to get on the enemy's track. Tang was a bit hampered at first by a whole lot of fishing vessels but with the enemy's bridge and stack already over the horizon these ships prevented the submarine's detection.

0506I/4 - Dived and continued the approach. It was later seen to be a very big ship, about 10000 tons, possibly a naval auxiliary.

0626I/4 - In position 35°22'N, 125°56'E, fired three torpedoes from 2500 yards. Two torpedo hits were heard and the ship was subsequently seen to sink in two sections.

0631I/4 - Surfaced and found the submarine surrounded by no less then 34 fishing vessels. About 50 survivors were seen in the water. Tang then left these shallow waters and proceeded westwards at three engines.

0730I/4 - When clear of the fishing vessels, surfaced and proceeded northwards.

1840I/4 - In position 36°06'N, 125°52'E, smoke was sighted and tracked on a southerly course. This target was obviously proceeding through shallow water but the dilemma to go after her was soon solved when smoke was seen to the west. Decided to go after this new target.

1953I/4 - Surfaced in the last twilight, but under a full moon. Twenty minutes later the target was picked up on radar at a range of 18500 yards. The enemy's long low silhouette was visible at 15000 yards.

2041I/4 - Dived and tracked the enemy to 9000 yards and than commenced a periscope moonlight attack. It was subsequently seen to be a long engines aft ship with a tripod mast and two king posts forward and aft. Distinctive was also his mushroom topped bridge structure.

2128I/4 - In position 36°05'N, 125°48'E, fired the last two bow torpedoes from 910 yards. The first torpedo was seen to hit just of the bridge breaking the ships back and the ship soon sank.

2131I/4 - Surfaced to try to pick up a survivor which was succesful though only at gunpoint. By the look of the lifeboats and liferings and also the observation before firing the torpedoes this must have been a new ship. [She was indeed less then a month ago completed.] It was estimated that this too had been a large ship of about 10000 tons. USS Tang than proceeded to the north-west.

6 Jul 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese merchant cargo ship Dori Maru (1409 GRT, built 1902) in the Yellow Sea in position 38°50'N, 123°35'E.

2257I/5 - In position 38°10'N, 124°15'E, radar contact was obtained on a ship at a range of 29000 yards. Stopped and tracked it out to a range of 32000 yards. The enemy was proceeding to the north-west at 9 knots. Started an end around. The enemy was visible from 20000 yards so avoid being sighted remained outside of 15000 yards range.

0227I/5 - Stopped on the enemy's track for a final course and speed check and than dived for a submerged attack.

0320I/5 - In position 38°40'N, 124°15'E fired the last two stern torpedoes from 900 yards. Both hit the medium sized freighter.

0323I/5 - Surfaced to find only wreckage on the surface.

0325I/5 - Two pips were seen on the radar screen at 16000 yards. They were closing so Tang retired at full speed to the southward to leave patrol.

7 Jul 1944
At 2155I/7, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) obtained radar contact on five equal sized radar pips at a range of 12000 yards. They were put astern. Nothing could be sighted on the horizon at this range. An end around was then commenced to get on their quarter. The enemy were steering 310°, than 340° and later 060°.

While trying to get on their quarter blinker signalling was sighted at a range of 13000 yards. Now convinced this was a hunter/killer group evasive action was taken. (10)

8 Jul 1944
At 2252I/8, in position 29°44'N, 129°52'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) two vessels were sighted thought to be enemy patrol vessels. They were evaded.

At 2333I/8, in position 29°44'N, 130°05'E, three more vessels were sighted also thought to be enemy patrol vessels. These too, were evaded. (10)

14 Jul 1944
At 1200Y/14, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) ended her third war patrol at Midway.

27 Jul 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Batfish (T/Cdr. J.K. Fyfe, USN) conducted exercises off Midway with USS Litchfield (T/Lt.Cdr. A.F. Hollingsworth, USN) and USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR). (12)

28 Jul 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Batfish (T/Cdr. J.K. Fyfe, USN) conducted exercises off Midway with USS Litchfield (T/Lt.Cdr. A.F. Hollingsworth, USN), USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR) and USS PC-483 (Lt. R.W. Anderson, USNR). (12)

29 Jul 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) and USS Batfish (T/Cdr. J.K. Fyfe, USN) conducted exercises off Midway with USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR). (12)

31 Jul 1944
Around 1555Y/31, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed from Midway for her fouth war patrol. She was ordered to patrol off the east coast of Honshu in Japanese home waters.

10 Aug 1944
Near Hamamatsu, Kyushu, Japan, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) attacked a laden Japanese tanker with three torpedoes. No hits were obtained.

0457I/10 - South of Hamamatsu, Kyushu, Japan, in position 34°36'N, 137°47'E, a single mast was seen followed by a superstructure. This was thought to be a patrol vessel proceeding down the coast at 12 knots on various courses.

0903I/10 - In position 34°36'N, 137°50'E, USS Tang sighted a engine-aft ship escorted by three aircraft. Enemy course was 110° at 9 knots. Tang was already on the targets beam 6000 yards away no approach was made.

0935I/10 - In position 34°35'N, 137°42'E, a patrol vessel was seen.

1010I/10 - In position 34°35'N, 137°35'E, an old type loaded tanker was seen proceeding on course 115° at 9 knots. Four aircraft were escorting this ship. Commenced approach.

1034I/10 - In position 34°35'N, 137°35'E, fired three bow torpedoes from 1200 yards. No hits were obtained and also no torpedoes exploded on the beach beyond the target. Two minutes after firing the target was seen to alter course and than revise course. Avoiding action was taking by Tang as it was expected the aircraft would attack with bombs or aerial depth charges but none were dropped. (13)

11 Aug 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese merchant cargo ship Roko Maru (3328 GRT, built 1912) off the southern coast of Honshu, Japan in position 33°58'N, 136°18'E.

0515I/11 - North-east of Cape Miki, in position 34°00'N, 136°18'E, sighted smoke against the beach as well as the bow wave of an escort. Before Tang could reach an approach course the enemy, the escort and a large, engines-aft freighter rounded Cape Miki and entered Kada Wan [The bay just south of Cape Miki]. Enemy course was 180°, then 220° at 12 knots.

0745I/11 - In position 33°56'N, 136°19'E, a patrol vessel was seen at a range of 7000 yards.

0853I/11 - In position 33°57'N, 136°19'E, a fishing vessel was seen at a range of 5000 yards proceeding on course 160° at 7 knots.

1244I/11 - After having gone deep for a modern looking gunboat loaded with depth charges, extremely loud pinging was heard coming up the coast. Tang kept stern on so as not to be detected.

1355I/11 - When in position 33°53'N, 136°17'E, a medium size tanker was seen leaving Kada Wan which rounded Cape Miki and proceeded on course 000°, later 040° at 10 knots. Due to having taken evasive action earlier, Tang was hopelessly out of position and no attack was possible.

1500I/11 - Tang's periscope was spotted by a patrol vessel which proved difficult to shake loose but eventually Tang succeeded without having been attacked.

1635I/11 - When off Owase Wan smoke was sighted to the south.

1715I/11 - In position 34°02'N, 136°19'E, it was seen that the sources of the smoke, which had been in two columns, were two medium sized freighters. Both were heavily laden. Two escorts were sighted, one of which was the gunboat previously sighted and the other one was a smaller escort. Started an attack.

1740I/11 - When in position 1700 yards on the convoy's beam just prior to giving the final setup, sound reported fast screws on the port quarter. A quick look showed the gunboat coming in fast about 1000 yards away. She had probably been warned by the patrol vessel which had detected Tang at 1500 hours.

1741I/11 - In position 34°02'N, 136°19'E, fired three bow torpedoes at the leading freighter from 1800 yards followed by the remaining three bow torpedoes at the other freighter from 1900 yards. The gunboat meanwhile crossed the stern having apparently misjudged the submarines course. Than saw the first torpedo hit the leading target just in the middle possibly hitting the boilers for the target immediately disintegrated with an explosion.

While going deep it was thought two torpedoes were heard to hit the second target. The gunboat meanwhile delivered a rather close depth charge attack and tried to force Tang into shallow water but a high speed submerged dash prevented this. Meanwhile loud break up noises were heard.

After 22 close depth charges the gunboat drew aft and at 1821I/11, Tang returned to periscope depth. The gunboat was seen at a rangee of 4000 yards on the quarter and an aircraft was seen circling the area. Nothing else was in sight.

2005I/11 - Continue to retire to seaward at 5 knots and surfaced at dark. Depth charging was still going on near the coast which was also swept by searchlights.

2010I/11 - Set course to patrol off Inamba Jima.

12 Aug 1944
At 0736I/12, south-east of Mikura Jima, in position 33°43'N, 139°32'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted a patrol vessel at a range of 6000 yards. The enemy was proceeding at various courses at 7 knots. The enemy vessel was evaded.

At 1135I/12, in position 33°45'N, 139°48'E, a patrol vessel was seen proceeding on course 090° at 6 knots at a range of 6000 yards.

At 1505I/12, in position 33°47'N, 139°54'E, a patrol vessel was seen proceeding on various courses at 8 knots at a range of 6000 yards. Also distant smoke was seen in the direction of where Tang had been at dawn. (13)

13 Aug 1944
At 0654I/13, south of Katsuura Bay, Kyushu, Japan, in position 34°54'N, 140°16'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighed distant smoke to the south-east. Range about 20 nautical miles. Tang commenced to close submerged but could not get in range due to patrolling aircraft and the patrol boats seen at 0717I/13. The target had meanwhile been seen to be a medium sized freighter proceeding on course 300° at 12 knots.

At 0717I/13, in position 34°59'N, 140°23'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted sampans, possibly patrol vessels, at a range of 8000 yards proceeding on various courses at 8 knots.

At 1028I/13, in position 34°56'N, 140°20'E, a fishing vessels was seen at a range of 12000 yards proceeding on course 280° at 6 knots. It may have been a patrol vessel.

At 1133I/13, in position 34°56'N, 140°20'E, several sampans were seen proceeding on various courses at 6 knots. These again may have been patrol vessels. Range was 8000 yards.

At 1400I/13, in position 34°58'N, 140°22'E, a fishing boat was seen at a range of 10000 yards proceeding on course 293° at 5 knots. (13)

14 Aug 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) engaged a Japanese patrol vessel, a converted yacht, with the 4" gun. 88 Rounds were fired and the enemy vessel was damaged.

0424I/14 - North-east of Hachijojima, in position 33°50'N, 140°36'E, USS Tang had to dive to avoid a yacht which believed to be an auxiliary patrol vessel. The enemy vessel patrolled in the area all day and it was considered attacking it with gunfire later if nothing more suitable showed up.

1753I/24 - Surfaced to maintain contact on the yacht and to check all guns for action and then closed for gun action.

1832I/24 - In position 33°03'N, 140°35'E (west of Hachijojima) , opened fire at 7000 yards. Ran in to a range of 4500 yards while firing. It is thought eight hits were obtained before the action was broken off after 88 rounds of 4" had been fired. The enemy vessel was still under control. His aft deck house was completely demolished and also the hull had been hit.

Tang retired to the south after the action had been broken off. (13)

20 Aug 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) attacked but missed a Japanese freighter to the east of Nachikatsuura, Kyushu, Japan. Following the failed torpedo attack Tang was depth charged but sustained no damage.

0450I/20 - In position 33°40'N, 136°10'E, sighted a fishing sampan at a range of 10000 yards. Ten minutes later another fishing sampan was sighted at a range of 15000 yards.

0947I/20 - Sighted the tops and smoke of a freighter coming out of the mist to the north. The enemy was close inshore but his escorts, two SC-type patrol vessels were further to seaward on the freighters beam and port bow. The freighter was a modern, medium sized, engine-aft ship proceeding on course

1108I/20 - In position 33°37'N, 136°01'E, fired two bow torpedoes from 900 yards. The first torpedo had missed astern and exploded on the beach. The second torpedo had left the tube but did not run. The escorts immediately counter-attacked and dropped the first 8 depth charges while Tang was still at periscope depth. 22 More depth charges were dropped but by that time Tang had gone deep. (13)

21 Aug 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) attacked a medium sized freighter south of Susami, Kyushu, Japan in position 33°30'N, 135°29'E with three torpedoes. No hits were obtained.

0855I/21 - South-west of Cape Kure, Kyushu, Japan, in position 33°22'N, 135°37'E, USS Tang sighted a large ship and two escorts proceeding eastwards on course 100° at 8 knots. Range was 10000 yards on sighting and could not be closed sufficiently to attack.

1039I/21 - In position 33°27'N, 135°34'E, a medium sized engine-aft freighter was seen at a range of 8000 yards. This ship looked new and also had two escorts. It was proceeding westwards on course 285° at 8 knots. The ship was closed to 3000 yards but fire was withheld as the setup was not good enough.

1243I/21 - Sighted smoke which soon developed into a medium sized freighter coming up the coast proceeding westwards very close to the beach. There were three escorts present. Enemy course was 290° at 8 knots. Started attack.

1317I/21 - In position 33°30'N, 135°29'E, fired three stern torpedoes from 1650 yards. All torpedoes were heard to explode on the beach. Tang meanwhile had gone to 200 feet before depth charging started. After 20 depth charges had been dropped deeper water was reached. (13)

22 Aug 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the small Japanese auxiliary patrol vessel Nansatsu Maru No.2 (116 GRT, built ???) off Mikizaki, Japan in position 34°01'N, 136°21'E.

0033I/22 - Saw a pip on the radar screen where there was not supposed to be one Range was 6400 yards.

On investigating it was seen to be a gunboat. Actually it looked like the same gunboat that had depth charged Tang on the 11th in the same area.

It is thought the gunboat, which size was estimated as being of about 1500 tons, was at anchor. Decided to attack with a torpedo.

0142I/22 - In position 34°02'N, 136°21'E fired a stern torpedo from 1200 yards. After about 100 yards the torpedo headed down and hit the sea bottom with a loud rumble.

0144I/22 - Fired another stern torpedo but it passed underneath the target. Circled round for a bow shot to keep a salvo of three in the stern tubes.

0158I/22 - Fired a bow torpedo but the torpedo diverted to the left and then ran towards the target but now missed astern.

0200I/22 - Fired another bow tube, which also diverted to the left but hit the ship which exploded and disintegrated throwing flames 500 feet into the air.

23 Aug 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese transport Tsukushi Maru (1859 GRT, built 1925) south-east of Hamamatsu, Honshu, Japan in position 34°37'N, 137°50'E.

0730I/23 - In position 34°35'N, 137°50'E, a sailing vessel was seen at a range of 15000 yards. It was proceeding on course 320° at 4 knots.

0803I/23 - Sighted smoke. Something interesting must be approaching. Two sources of smoke could be seen.

0815I/23 - In position 34°36'N, 137°49'E, sighted two freighers and three escorts. A sudden change of course and the appearnce of a third, previously unnoticed, small freighter ruined the attack as the enemy passed by a too close a range to fire torpedoes.

0923I/23 - An old type destroyer and five aircraft were seen to start to search in the area. It was at first thought that Tang had been spotted but it was later seen that their movements were like they were conducting a routine sweep.

1017I/23 - When the destroyer was just clear the reason for their appearance became apparent when the masts and high superstructure of a ship were seen coming down the coast proceeding eastwards at a course of 95° at 8 knots. This ship was escorted by what are thought to be a frigate ahead, an SC-type patrol vessel on his bow and a patrol craft and some sort of landing ship astern. Started attack.

1118I/23 - In position 34°37'N, 137°50'E, fired three bow torpedoes from 800 yards. Then commenced swinging to have a shot at the landing craft which looked like an LST.

The first and third torpedo were seen to hit the freighter which sank quickly. It was thought to be a naval transport of about 10000 tons.

1121I/23 - The LST type vessel headed towards the beach so the attack on her was broken off. Also one of the escorts dropped two depth charges but apparently the escorts than gave priority to picking up survivors and Tang was able to escape into deeper water. (13)

24 Aug 1944
At 0952I/24, south-west of the Ichiesaki Lighthouse, in position 33°30'N, 135°21'E, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) sighted a modern medium sized tanker proceeding eastwards on course 093° at 9 knots. The vessel was escorted. They were seen too late to make an attack.

At 1020I/24, in position 33°30'N, 135°21'E, a trawler was sighted proceeding to the west-south-west at 265° at 8 knots.

At 1225I/24, in position 33°30'N, 135°22'E, two freighters were seen proceeding westwards on course 315° at 10 knots. The freighters were riding high in the water and no less than 7 escorts were seen. Decided not to attack these empty freighters with such a heavy escort in these shallow waters.

At 2342I/24, east of Shingu, Kyushu, Japan, in position 33°40'N, 136°16'E, a submarine was sighted on Tangs beam proceeding parallel to Tang on course 145° at 12 knots. Range was only 1100 yards. The submarine was put end on and Tang ran out to 5000 yards when tracking showed the other submarine had changed course also. It was intended to make an end around but his pip suddenly disappeared as he must have dived. (13)

25 Aug 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the small Japanese merchant tanker Nanko Maru No.8 (834 GRT, built 1944) south of Mikizaki, Japan in position 33°55'N, 136°18'E.

0420I/25 - Tang dived for submerged patrol off Nigishima Saki [Nigishima Bay] and closed the shore to within 1500 yards. Enemy patrol activity started within half an hour but the various patrol vessel turned back before reaching Tang's position.

0805I/25 - A PC-type patrol vessel now came directly towards and evenually passed directly overhead. He later returned twice but Tang was not detected. Also another patrol vessel came nearby once. Aircraft were also patrolling the area.

1135I/25 - Smoke was in position 33°54'N, 136°16'E coming round Cape Miki proceeding northwards. Also tops of masts were seen. This contact developed into a medium sized freighter and a small engine-aft freighter. Tang turned for a stern shot expecting the enemy to continue down the coast but instead of doing so they turned into the bay to the north of Cape Miki.

1429I/25 - When abreast of Nagashima island smoke was sighted which turned out to be a patrol vessel which later passed overhead without detecting the submarine.

During the second half of the afternoon first two and than three patrol vessels were seen.

1715I/25 - Now four enemy patrol vessels were now in sight.

1743I/25 - A ship came sight to the south which was proceeding to the north-north-east on course 033° at 8 knots.

1800I/25 - The ship was now identified as a modern medium sized diesel tanker. She was heavily laden. The were now five escorts nearby.

1805I/25 - In position 33°55'N, 136°18'E, fired three stern torpedoes from 600 yards. Two hits were obtained on the tanker which immediately disintegrated. The third torpedo is claimed to have hit the leading escort. Tang than made off for deeper water. A total of 68 depth charges were counted but none were very close and no damage was sustained. When clear, now out of torpedoes, course was set for Pearl Harbor. (13)

3 Sep 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) ended her fourth war patrol at Pearl Harbor.

22 Sep 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor.

24 Sep 1944
In the afternoon, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) departed from Pearl Harbor for her fifth war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in Formosa Strait.

She was to proceed to Midway first to top off with fuel and provisions before proceeding to her patrol area.

[As USS Tang was lost on this patrol so were the documents. A patrol report was compiled by Cdr. O'Kane after his release from Japanese captivity. Some details, for instance exact times and positions are therefore missing in this patrol report.] (14)

27 Sep 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) topped off with fuel and provisions at Midway. She departed for her patrol area later the same day.

10 Oct 1944
USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) arrived in her patrol area when she entered the Formosa Strait.

In the evening, around 2100I/10, a radar contact was obtained which turned out to be a patrol vessel. The enemy was evaded. (14)

11 Oct 1944
While operating off north-western Formosa USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese merchant ship Joshu Go (1621 GRT, built 1917) in approximate position 25°20'N, 121°32'E and the Japanese merchant ship Oita Maru (762 GRT, built 1907) in approximate position 25°40'N, 121°30'E. [The last position may be off though, according to the patrol report the position of the sinking seems to be closer to the land.]

Around 0400I/11 - When about 4 nautical miles west of Puki Kaku obtained a radar contact at a range of 17000 miles on a ship moving up the coast from Pakusa Point [which is in approximately 25°03'N, 121°04'E]

Tracked this ship at 14 knots. As the range closed it was thought to be a large modern diesel freighter which was heavily laden thus presenting a low silhouette. Started attack.

During the attack three torpedoes were fired from a range of about 800 yards. The first two hit and the ship sank rapidly. After the smoke had cleared away Tang surfaced. No survivors were seen, only wreckage was found floating on the water including several half swamped landing craft.

Tang than proceeded at full power down the coast and than dived off Pakusa Point for a day of submerged patrol.

Around noon another northbound merchant vessel was seen approaching close to the coast and zigzagging. Decided to track this vessel until dark and than attack and not to exhaust the battery too much by doing a high run to get on the track of the target.

At dark, Tang surfaced 4000 yards astern of the target and than passed him at the same range while also evading some stationary patrols.

Around 2100I/11 - Fired a single stern torpedo which hit with a terrific explosion and the ship sank very quickly. Tang then proceeded back southwards along the coast.

12 Oct 1944
Around 0100I/12, off the coast of north-western Formosa, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN), sighted a northbound hospital ship which was correctly lit. (14)

15 Oct 1944
From 15 to 17 October 1944, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) patrolled off the Chinese coast, south of Haitan Island but no enemy shipping was encountered. (14)

18 Oct 1944
On 18 and 19 October 1944, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) patrolled in the Formosa Strait. Only a few enemy patrol vessels were encountered.

At 2200I/19, course was set to patrol off the Chinese coast as northbound enemy warships were expected to pass through that area. (14)

20 Oct 1944
Around 0400I/20, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) obtained radar contact on an enemy force which was proceeding southwards (and not northwards as was expected). An approach than followed which quickly developed into a trailing operation as the target, which was seen to be a Katori-class cruiser escorted by two destroyers, were making 19 knots. Their erratic zigs at least every three minutes permited Tang to close on the quarter were a bit of luck or with steam torpedoes [Tang had only Mk.18 electric torpedoes on board] an attack would have been possible. Five times in a row the wrong direction of the next zig had been quessed and firing the slow Mk.18 torpedoes would not reach the enemy cruiser before before anonther zig would be made.

To fire the Mk.18 torpedoes a range of 600 yards would need to have been obtained. This was nearly done when at 800 yards the submarine was detected and illuminated. The enemy opened fire while Tang made a crash dive north of the Pescadores Ilands. No depth charges however followed.

Later it was seen that the area was patrolled with small patrol vessels and aircraft. Tang meanwhile had retired to the north.

The cruiser chased was the Kashima (offsite link). (15)

21 Oct 1944
Around 2000I/21, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) tracked and nearly fired on a PC-type patrol vessel in the northern part of the Formasa Strait near the Chinese coast near Turnabout Island (now called Niushan Island). When the range had come down to 2500 yards the enemy reversed course and made off. (14)

23 Oct 1944
While operating in Formosa Strait, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane) torpedoed and damaged the Japanese transport Toun Maru (1915 GRT, built 1922) and torpedoed and sank the transports Tatsuju Maru (1944 GRT, built 1943), Wakatake Maru (1920 GRT, built 1938) in approximate position 24°48'N, 120°26'E.

These ships were in convoy with the and the Japanese transport Kori Go (1183 GRT, built 1908) and were on passage from Fuzhou, China to Takao, Formosa [now Kaohsiung, Taiwan]. The convoy was escorted by the destroyers Hasu and Tsuga.

0030I/23 - Detected an enemy convoy with the SJ radar which had just been repaired. It was firsts thought to be land but there was not supposed to be land in that location. Commenced tracking.

The contact developed into a convoy which was thought to be made up of three large modern tankers in colummn and two freighters. A destroyer was ahead with what were thought to be frigates on each bow and quarters.

An attack was started in which two torpedoes were fired at the nearest tanker, a single torpedo at middle tanker and two torpedoes at the far tanker. The first torpedoes started to hit their target while the last torpedoes were being fired. It is thought all torpedoes hit and all three tankers were seen to be on fire.

Meanwhile a freighter crossed the stern when it was seen that the other freighter was rapidly coming toward in an attempt to ram. Tang managed to evade this ship which than opened fire with her guns and machine guns. The two Japanese freighters than collided with each other and four stern torpedoes were fired into the melee. It is thought both freighters were sunk. Tang subsequently evaded the destroyers and managed to get clear.

Tang claimed to have sunk three large tankers of about 10000 tons each and two transports of about 7500 tons each. Toun Maru, Tatsuju Maru and Wakatake Maru were all engine-aft ships thus resembling tankers.

24 Oct 1944
While attacking a Japanese convoy in the Formosa Strait, USS Tang (T/Cdr. R.H. O'Kane, USN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese auxiliary fleet tanker Matsumoto Maru (7024 GRT, built 1921) in position 25°06'N, 119°31'E and the Japanese tanker Ebara Maru (6957 GRT, built 1944) in position 25°03'N, 119°35'E. However the Tang is sunk one of her own torpedoes (her last) shortly afterwards.

These ships were in convoy with the tankers Einin Maru (6968 GRT, built 1944), Enryaku Maru (6925 GRT, built 1944), Koshin Maru (2855 GRT, built 1944), Munakata Maru (10045 GRT, built 1944), Ritsuei Maru (2901 GRT, built 1944), Shoei Maru (2854 GRT, built 1944), Yamazono Maru (6948 GRT, built 1944) and the transports Hikachi Maru (6008 GRT, built 1943) and Yuzan Maru No.2 (6856 GRT, built 1944). The survey ship Hakusa (3810 GRT, built 1914) was also part of the convoy. The convoy was escorted by the frigates Kaibokan 14, Kaibokan 20, Kaibokan 34, Kaibokan 38, Kaibokan 39 and Kaibokan 46 (all links are offsite links).

On surfacing after dark course was set to patrol near Turnabout Island (now called Niushan Island). When approaching the Island a lot of pips showed up on the radar screen which developed in a large Japanese convoy.

The convoy tracked on courses which followed the coast / islands at a speed of 12 knots. During the approach the Japanese became nervous and two escorts turned on an opposite course and started firing their guns. Tang continued her approach on the leading ships of the convoy.

Four bow torpedoes were fired at a transport from 1400 yards and a tanker from 900 yards. Ships of the convoy were seen to be heavily laded with crates on deck, presumably this were crated aircraft. While Tang had turned parallel to the convoy to look for more targets, the torpedoes commenced hitting and it is believed all four hit.

Tang passed the next ship, a medium sized freighter and then turned in for a stern shot on a tanker with a transport behind her. Fired two stern torpedoes at the tanker and one at the transport from ranges between 600 and 700 yards. Meanwhile quite a few of the escorts had detected the submarine and had opened fire while Tang now tried to clear the melee at full speed. The tanker was hit and she blew up. At least one torpedo hit the transport and also a destroyer which was bearing down on Tang was hit and seen to blow up. Following the attack only the transport was seen to be afloat.

When the range to the damaged transport had opened up to 10000 yards, Tang stopped to look the situation over. In the meantime the last two torpedoes which had been loaded forward during the attack were withdrawn and checked. All seemed to be okay and the were reloaded after their batteries had been ventilated. Tang then commenced an approach on the crippled transport to finish her off. Two frigates were seen patrolling on the seaward side of the target. Tang approached making a wide sweep around the escorts.

From a range of 900 yards, the second last torpedo was fired at the damaged transport followed by the 24th and last torpedo. This torpedo broached and curved sharply to the left. Tang increased speed and manoeuvred to evade the erratic torpedo but it was to no avail and the torpedo struck Tang abreast the after torpedo room with a violent explosion about 20 seconds after firing. Tang started to sink by the stern. Nine of the crew of Tang, including the Commanding Officer, ended up in the water and were picked up the Kaibokan 34. While in the water it was seen that the transport was going down, so most likely the other torpedo must have hit.

27 Mar 1946
After his return from captivity in Japan, T/Cdr. O'Kane, USN, was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor on 27 March 1946.

Citation;
Rank and organization: Commander, U.S. Navy, commanding USS Tang.
Place and date: Vicinity Philippine Islands, 23 and 24 October 1944.
Entered service at: New Hampshire. Born: 2 February 1911, Dover, N.H.

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the USS Tang operating against 2 enemy Japanese convoys on 23 and 24 October 1944, during her fifth and last war patrol. Boldly maneuvering on the surface into the midst of a heavily escorted convoy, Comdr. O'Kane stood in the fusillade of bullets and shells from all directions to launch smashing hits on 3 tankers, coolly swung his ship to fire at a freighter and, in a split-second decision, shot out of the path of an onrushing transport, missing it by inches. Boxed in by blazing tankers, a freighter, transport, and several destroyers, he blasted 2 of the targets with his remaining torpedoes and, with pyrotechnics bursting on all sides, cleared the area. Twenty-four hours later, he again made contact with a heavily escorted convoy steaming to support the Leyte campaign with reinforcements and supplies and with crated planes piled high on each unit. In defiance of the enemy's relentless fire, he closed the concentration of ship and in quick succession sent 2 torpedoes each into the first and second transports and an adjacent tanker, finding his mark with each torpedo in a series of violent explosions at less than l,000-yard range. With ships bearing down from all sides, he charged the enemy at high speed, exploding the tanker in a burst of flame, smashing the transport dead in the water, and blasting the destroyer with a mighty roar which rocked the Tang from stem to stern. Expending his last 2 torpedoes into the remnants of a once powerful convoy before his own ship went down, Comdr. O'Kane, aided by his gallant command, achieved an illustrious record of heroism in combat, enhancing the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

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