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Notable events involving Burrfish include:

The page dealing with the wartime history of USS Burrfish was created in August 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.]

13 Oct 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) commenced a training period near Kittery, Maine.

1 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at Newport, Rhode Island for torpedo discharge trials.

4 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at the submarine base at New London, Connecticut from Newport, Rhode Island.

13 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is put on the marine railway at the New London submarine base.

16 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is put back in the water.

21 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) departed New London, Connecticut for Key West where she was to conduct temporary duty with the Fleet Sound School.

26 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is joined by the submarine chasers USS SC-1063 (Lt. J.J. Scheffler, Jr., USN) and USS SC-1064 (?) which then escorted her to Key West.

27 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at Key West Florida to provide training services to the Fleet Sound School.

29 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

30 Nov 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

1 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

2 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

3 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

4 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

6 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West with the patrol vessel USS PE-27 (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Shaw, Jr., USNR) and the armed yacht USS Ability (?).

7 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West with the patrol vessel USS PE-27 (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Shaw, Jr., USNR) and the armed yacht USS Ability (?).

8 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West with the patrol vessel USS PE-27 (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Shaw, Jr., USNR) and the armed yacht USS Ability (?).

9 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West with the patrol vessel USS PE-27 (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Shaw, Jr., USNR) and the armed yacht USS Ability (?).

10 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

11 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

13 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Key West.

14 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (Lt.Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) departed Key West, Florida for the Panama Canal Zone.

18 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at Colon, Panama Canal Zone from Key West, Florida.

21 Dec 1943
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) transited the Panama Canal and arrived at Balboa.

6 Jan 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at Pearl Harbor from Balboa, Panama Canal Zone.

9 Jan 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor.

10 Jan 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Wyman (Lt.Cdr. R.W. Copeland, USNR). (1)

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.

20 Jan 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor.

21 Jan 1944
During 21/22 January 1944, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Chew (Cdr. A.G. Grant, USNR) and USS Charles R. Greer (Lt.Cdr. W.T. Denton, USNR). These included night exercises.

24 Jan 1944
USS Aspro (T/Cdr. W.A. Stevenson, USN), USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) and USS Sand Lance (T/Cdr. M.E. Garrison, USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Wyman (Lt.Cdr. R.W. Copeland, USNR). (1)

25 Jan 1944
During 25/26 January 1944, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) and USS Sand Lance (T/Cdr. M.E. Garrison, USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Wyman (Lt.Cdr. R.W. Copeland, USNR).

In the evening of the 25th, USS Aspro (T/Cdr. W.A. Stevenson, USN) and USS Chew (Cdr. A.G. Grant, USNR) also joined before night exercises were commenced. (1)

29 Jan 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) departed from Pearl Harbor for her first war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Caroline Islands area.

She was to proceed to Midway first to top off with fuel and provisions. (2)

2 Feb 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at Midway from Pearl Harbor. After topping off with fuel and provisions she departed for her patrol area around 1635Y/2. (2)

9 Feb 1944
At 2350K/9, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) received a signal ordering her to patrol to the west of 148°E between Latitudes 12°N and 13°N (east / east-south-east of Guam) until the scheduled time of entry in the assigned area. (2)

14 Feb 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) attacked a Japanese convoy well to the south-east of Guam, in position 09°53'N, 146°30'E. Four torpedoes were fired at a transport with a destroyer overlapping. No hits were obtained.

1030K/14 - In position 09°50'N, 146°30'E smoke was sighted on the horizon.

1134K/14 - Radar contact was obtained at a range of 36000 yards. Commenced tracking while manoeuvring at full speed to get on the convoy's track.

1217K/14 - Burrfish had gained position ahead of the convoy at a range of 25000 yards. The convoy had tracked on course 315° at 11 knots. The convoy was seen to be made up of a tanker, two large transport ships and several escorts (thought later to be five in number). Burrfish dived and commenced a submerged approach on the convoy.

1302K/14, It was thought the submarine had been detected as no ship of the convoy was on the same heading but it was soon seen that the convoy had made quite a radical zig of at least 60° to the left. This puts Burrfish on the starboard side of the convoy with the range to the closest transport about 8000 yards. Burrfish changed course to continue the attack.

1314K/14 - The starboard quarter escort of the convoy was now seen thought to be a Shiratsuyu-class destroyer.

1321K/14 - The escort was now at a range of 2600 yards with the nearest transport at 3500 yards. They were now in line so a perfect moment to fire despite the range being not as close as hoped. In position 09°53'N, 146°30'E four bow torpedoes were fired but no hits were obtained.

1323K/14 - Burrfish went deep and changed course.

1327K/14 - Depth charging started. Three escorts were heard to be hunting, two pingers and one listener.

1330K/14 - Due to a leak, Burrfish looses depth control as she was getting heavy aft. Speed was increased to regain depth control.

1332K/14 - One of the pingers made his run, dropping four depth charges fairly close. He then left the scene. The other two remained hunting and dropping depth charges which all fell fairly close. The trim of the submarine was effected by the depth charging.

1340K/14 - Burrfish was now at 450 feet with a 10° up angle. A total of 18 depth charges has so far been counted.

1355K/14 - What later proved to be the last string of four depth charges was dropped. The escorts were still searching though. Burrfish was now at 500 feet with a 14° up angle. Speed once again had to be increased and Burrfish was was finally able to come up to 375 feet.

1430K/14 - The escorts were now thought to be quite some distance away so Burrfish commenced pumping to get rid of the water in the boat.

1600K/14 - An escort was still heard to be pinging in the distance.

1758K/14 - Secured from silent running.

1853K/14 - Surfaced. (2)

16 Feb 1944
0724K/16, in position 08°10'N, 147°10'E, while en-route to the Truk area for air/sea rescue / lifeguard duties for the upcoming air strikes, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted smoke of at least two ships on bearing 120°. Burrfish commenced tracking and determined that the course of the enemy (110° at 6-7 knots) would take them over the banks to the eastward of Pikelot Island. It was hoped that an end around could be made and intercept them when they cleared the banks on their passage to, obviously, Truk.

At 2300K/16, USS Burrfish passed between Puluwat and Tamatam Islands and commenced patrolling to intercept the enemy convoy but it did not show up. (2)

17 Feb 1944
At 1250K/17, west of Truk, in position 07°31'N, 149°47'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted a Japanese destroyer bearing 010°, range 7 nautical miles. USS Burrfish dived and observed the enemy disappear on course 270° at a speed of 10 knots. The closest range being 8000 yards.

At 1514K/17 - Eight distant depth charge explosions were heard.

At 1611K/17 - In position 07°28'N, 149°50'E, HE was picked up n bearing 135° which turned out to be another Japanese destroyer proceeding westwards at a range of 24000 yards on course 270° at a speed of 25 knots. During the next few hours numerous distant explosions were heard thought to be depth charges. (2)

18 Feb 1944
At 0030K/18, west of Truk, in position 07°30'N, 150°00'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) obtained radar contact on a convoy bearing 010° at a range of 30000 yards. The convoy consisted of a large ship with one escort. Commenced tracking and determined the course of the enemy to be about 115°, speed 6 to 8 knots.

At 0100K/18, USS Burrfish increased speed to make an end around, manoeuvring to remain at least 15000 yards from the convoy due to the moonlight and the fact that Burrfish had to pass up moon to get ahead.

At 0150K/18, in position 07°25'N, 150°12'E, radar contact was obtained on a large patrol vessel or destroyer on the same course of the targets but 8 nautical miles ahead of them. This ship was seen 10 minutes later and was thought to be a small destroyer. Range to the vessel was then 10000 yards. Burrfish changed course to pass astern of this vessel. At the minimum range of 8000 yards the vessel was quite visible and the convoy now appeared to have slowed down or even stopped.

At 0225K/18, USS Burrfish was now ahead of the convoy at a range of 18000 yards. It was determined that the convoy had reversed course. The escort stayed close aboard and was circling the target. Burrfish changed course to 315° to head up target in a stern chase. It appeared the escort was aware of the submarines prescence which came in the submarines direction every time the range became less than 13000 yards. It became impossible to get ahead before daylight, furthermore as the convoy was now heading for the Uranie Bank. It was decided to follow the convoy until dawn and make a contact report to ComSubPac. The large ship in the convoy acted like a cripple.

At 0547K/18 - Burrfish dived a dawn was approaching.

0614K/18 - Smoke of the convoy could still be seen in the direction of the Uranie Bank.

At 1350K/18 - Burrfish surfaced and commenced surface patrol.

At 1838K/18, in position 07°25'N, 150°05'E, a destroyer was seen proceeding eastwards on a course of 090° at a speed of 15 knots. Range was 7 nautical miles. The enemy was avoided on the surface. (2)

21 Feb 1944
At 2300K/21, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) was released from lifeguard duties. She was to return to her original patrol area making a reconnaissance of Puluwat Island en route. (2)

22 Feb 1944
At 0542K/22, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) dived with Puluwat Island bearing 070°, distant 8 miles. Approached Puluwat and Alet Islands submerged and observed them until 1020K/22. No signs of activity on either island was seen. The presence of expected buildings, radio masts and wharf was confirmed. Burrfish approached within 2500 yards of the lighthouse on Alet Island during the observations. Numerous lookouts were seen on a catwalk near the top of the tower.

At 2200K/22, Burrfish received orders to take station between Puluwat and Pulusuk Islands for lifeguard duty during daylight of the next day. Burrfish reversed course to comply with these orders. (2)

23 Feb 1944
At 0550K/23, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at her assigned lifeguard station in position 07°10'N, 149°17'E and commenced a surface patrol while zig zagging.

At 0928K/23, in position 07°02'N, 149°22'E, a Japanese Betty bomber (Mitsubishi G4M) was sighted at a range of about 10 miles. The enemy was on a south-easterly course. USS Burrfish dived to avoid being sighted surfacing again around 1025K/23.

At 1235K/23, in position 07°18'N, 148°43'E, a lookout reported a periscope bearing 260° relative. USS Burrfish turned away at flank speed and changed course to 180°(T).

At 1810K/23, with no friendly aircraft seen all day and having received no messages on the emergency frequency changed course to 295° and proceeded to the regular patrol area at 10 knots. (2)

29 Feb 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) attacked an enemy transport of about 4000 tons well south-east of Guam in position 11°04'N, 146°35'E. The target was claimed as possibly sunk. USS Burrfish was depth charged following the attack but managed to escape without damage.

0740K/29 - Well south-east of Guam, made sight and radar contact on an enemy transport with two escorts bearing 030° at a range of 27000 yards. Commenced tracking and manoeuvring to get ahead of the target. Determined his base course to be 150° at 9 knots.

1024K/29 - Dived while on the targets base track 25000 yards ahead of him.

1135K/29 - The target was seen to be a transport of about 4000 tons with two small destroyer type escorts. Range was now 9000 yards. Commenced attack.

1148K/29 - When the range was 4000 yards the target zigged 30 degrees. Course was changed to adjust the setup.

1156K/29 - In position 11°04'N, 146°35'E, fired three bow torpedoes from 1700 yards and went deep immediately as one of the escorts was only 800 yards away. No torpedo explosions were heard, neither on he target or at the end of their run. They tracked nicely on their courses by sound. No more HE of the target could be picked up and she may have been sunk after all.

1201K/29 - Depth charging started. During the next 20 minutes a total of 22 were counted. All, except the first two, were too close for comfort. Both escorts were pingers and were working together with one keeping contact while the other made an attack run.

1220K/29 - The enemy seem to have lost contact. Burrfish had been working to the eastward.

1225K/29 - Celebrated too soon as the enemy was back again with 11 more well placed depth charges, seen from their perspective that is.

1335K/29 - Both escorts moved off to westward at slow speed, searching with their sound gear.

1400K/29 - Burrfish commenced to return periscope depth to have a look.

1416K/29 - Both escorts were seen bearing 280°. There was no sign of the target. Changed course to close to investigate.

1445K/29 - A Mavis flying boat (Kawanishi H6K) was seen circling over the position of the escorts.

1523K/29 - One of the escorts commenced patrolling towards Burrfish at a range of 5000 yards so the idea of closing any further was abandoned and course was changed to the north-east. The second escorts was not seen again after this time.

1912K/29 - The escort was still searching to the westward at great distance. As a farewell gesture he dropped a single depth charge. Burrfish surfaced and cleared the area at full surfaced speed to the north-north-east. (2)

3 Mar 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) attacked the already damaged Shinkyo Maru (5204 GRT, built 1918) with three torpedoes from long range in position 06°25'N, 148°12'E. No hits were obtained.

The Shinkyo Maru was already damaged in an attack by USS Picuda (T/Cdr. A. Raborn, USN) the previous evening. The ship finally sank on the 4th.

The Shinkyo Maru was on passage from Saipan to Truk escorted by the frigates Amakusa and Mikura (offsite links).

1138K/2 - In position 06°45'N, 147°35'E, sighted smoke bearing 260°, range about 10 nautical miles. Changed course.

1145K/2 - Sighted the masts of a freighter.

1155K/2 - Sighted two Dave (Nakajima E8N) floatplanes and two destroyer type escorts.

1235K/2 - The freighter began to make zigs to the right and it looked like Burrfish would not be able to close enough in order to be able to fire torpedoes.

1255K/2 - The target now passed Burrfish at a range of 3500 yards. Broke off the attack but continued on a normal approach course in case the target would zig back to the left. The escorts are thought to be a Shiratsuyu-class destroyer and some sort of smaller destroyer. The freighter could not be identified. It had a composite superstructure, a goal post forward and one aft and a fairly high stack.

1626K/2 - The target smoke could still be seen on bearing 115°.

1900K/2 - Surfaced.

1935K/2 - Obtained radar contact on the target on bearing 090°. Radar interference was picked up on the port bow. This is thought to be USS Picuda making an end around on the enemy. Burrfish changed course to starboard and commenced an end around run.

2200K/2 - Obtained radar contact on USS Picuda at a range of 6000 yards. He was apparently in position to start an attack. When the range was 5000 yards she was seen, though barely, to commence her attack run.

2255K/2 - Heard three explosions. Watched the pip of the target, at a range of 18000 yards, disappear from the screen for a while but this must have been a change of course as the pip returned within a few minutes.

2301K/2 - Heard depth charges exploding, about 5 in number.

2305K/2 - Heard more depth charges. Tracking the target revealed that he appeared to be stopped or circling. It was seen that the escorts exchanged flashing light signals before each depth charge run.

2306K/2 - A muffled underwater explosion was heard.

2307K/2 - Commended to close the target who for the next 45 minutes seems to steer every course on the compass at 3-4 knots.

2340K/2 - Stopped. The target is making little way now, if any.

2359K/2 - Heard six more depth charges exploding.

0015K/3 - Went in at 5 knots and see what develops.

0140K/3 - Range was now 8500 yards. Both escorts are circling the target at about 1000 yards. The moon has set so it was thought possible to close to 4000-5000 yards undetected. The target still tracked as though he is underway on southerly courses at very slow speed at times.

0200K/3 - Range was now 7500 yards. One of the escorts could be seen through binoculars. The escorts were laying stopped on either beam of the target.

0211K/3 - From a range of 5400 yards, the nearest escort commenced to close rapidly, flashing a recognition signal in the direction of the submarine which turned away and increased speed to full. The range continued to close until 4200 yards when the enemy gave up the chase.

0300K/3 - The target is definitely stopped. One escort was 500 yards from her. The other was roving around. Having failed to close it was decided to fire torpedoes from long range.

0318K/3 - Heard seven depth charges exploding.

0358K/3 - In position 06°25'N, 148°12'E, fired three torpedoes from ranges between 6500 and 6200 yards.

0408K/3 - Heard three torpedoes explode at the end of their run, so no hits.

0414K/3 - Heard a depth charge exploding.

0530K/3 - Dived and set course to 225° to close the crippled target.

0624K/3 - Sighted masts of the escorts and the target bearing 148° in position 06°29'N, 148°08'E.

0724K/3 - Sighted a Rufe floatplane (Nakajima A6M2-N) circling over the target group.

0826K/3 - Sighted another plane of the same type.

1304K/3 - Finally the target could be seen very well now. She was down by the bow and listing to starboard. The two escorts were patrolling around her.

1438K/3 - Changed course to 265°

1941K/3 - Surfaced and set course to return to the assigned patrol area. (3)

5 Mar 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted a periscope reconnaissance of Lamotrek, Island (Caroline Islands). (2)

12 Mar 1944
At 0706K/12, while reconnoitring Woleai Atoll in position 07°20'N, 144°02'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted three steam sampans patrolling east and south of the main entrance to the lagoon.

At 1015K/12, when in position 07°25'N, 143°54'E, a large transport was seen inside the lagoon. She was smoking ready to leave at any moment. A smaller ship was seen to the left of the large transport.

At 1117K/12, it was seen that the target was still anchored or moored well up the lagoon. It was also noticed that the target had four goal post masts.

The following day, USS Burrfish again reconnoitred Woleai Atoll and it was seen that both ships were still present. The large transport was still smoking every now and then for a few minutes at a time.

At 1913K/13, USS Burrfish surfaced and retired to the north, leaving patrol to proceed to Midway. (2)

22 Mar 1944
At 0950Y/22, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) ended her first war patrol at Midway. She was taken in hand for a port patrol refit by the relief crew of Submarine Division 61 and the Midway submarine base.

9 Apr 1944
During 9/10 April 1944, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Midway. These included night exercises. (4)

9 Apr 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Midway with USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR). (5)

10 Apr 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Midway with USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR), USS PC-579 (Lt. R.L. Biggs, USNR) and USS Girasol (?). (5)

11 Apr 1944
USS Tautog (T/Cdr. T.S. Baskett, USN) and USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Midway with USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR), USS PC-579 (Lt. R.L. Biggs, USNR) and USS Girasol (?). (6)

12 Apr 1944
USS Tautog (T/Cdr. T.S. Baskett, USN) and USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Midway with USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR), USS PC-579 (Lt. R.L. Biggs, USNR) and USS YMS 286 (Lt.(jg) D.L. Middleton, USNR). (6)

14 Apr 1944
At 1400Y/14, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) departed from Midway for her second war patrol. She was ordered to patrol south of the Japanese home islands.

At 2030Y/14, in position 28°15'N, 178°26'W, radar contact was obtained bearing 250° relative at only 1100 yards. USS Burrfish immediately swung right at full speed and the range was opened to 1500 yards before the radar contact was lost. A contact report was made on a possible enemy submarine being in the area.

23 Apr 1944
At 1800I/23, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) entered her patrol area. She is at that moment to the west of Tori-shima, Bonin Islands. (4)

25 Apr 1944
At 2149I/25, well to the south-west of Aogashima, in position 30°03'N, 137°45'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) obtained a radar contact at a range of 4500 yards. Two small pips appeared on the radar screen. Course was changed to put the contact astern and speed was increased. Nothing could be seen through binoculars. When the range was 5600 yards contact was lost. It was considered that this were most likely two small patrol vessels. (4)

27 Apr 1944
At 0842I/27, south of Honshu, in position 30°45'N, 135°30'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted a small fishing type vessel patrol boat making about 6 knots on various courses. The vessel remained in the area until around 1400 hours. The enemy never came closer than 3000 yards. His intermittent stopping indicated that he had probably listening gear. Also there was a radio antenna rigged between his two /masts. (4)

2 May 1944
At 2120I/2, off the Bongu Suido, in position 32°30'N, 132°08'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) obtained a radar contact on bearing 345° relative at a range of 4500 yards. The pip was on the screen for about five minutes and then disappeared. The contact could not be seen from the bridge but the contact gave a good echo. It was thought it may well have been a submarine. USS Burrfish changed course and retired to the north. (4)

7 May 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) torpedoed and sank the German tanker Rossbach (5984 GRT, former Norwegian Madrono, offsite link) south of Murotosaki, Japan in position 33°13'N, 134°14'E.

0705I/7 - While patrolling submerged a tanker was sighted through the periscope bearing 030° at a range of 7500 yards. The tanker was on a southerly course. Started attack. The target tracked on a course of 130° at 9 knots.

0719I/7 - The target has zigged to the right about 30°. Range was now 3000 yards.

0726I/7 - The target zigged 50° to the right. Range was now 1700 yards. USS Burrfish changed course to complete the attack.

0729I/7 - In position 33°13'N, 134°14'E three bow torpedoes were fired from 720 yards. All three torpedoes hit the target which began to settle rapidly.

0730I/7 - Started going deep and swung to the left to avoid the sinking ship.

0732I/7 - Breaking up noises were heard. USS Burrfish later cleared the area to the south-east.

8 May 1944
At 2003I/8, well to the south-south-east off Kii Oshima, Honshu, Japan, in position 32°52'N, 136°08'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) obtained radar contact bearing 040° at a range of 7200 yards. The contact could be seen vaguely through binoculars. Apparently a very small patrol craft.

At 2015I/8, course was changed to put the contact on the quarter and it was lost soon after. (4)

9 May 1944
At 0908II/9, to the south-west off Kii Oshima, Honshu, Japan, in position 33°10'N, 135°30'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted a small trawler patrolling on a south-westerly course (215°) at about 6 knots. Observed the enemy picket boat / patrol vessel passing about 2000 yards abeam at 1020I/9 and disappear at about 1050I/9.

At 2250I/9, to the south-south-west off Kii Oshima, Honshu, Japan, in position 33°09'N, 135°43'E, radar contact was obtained on bearing 210° relative, range 3100 yards. The contact passed astern and the range slowly increased. It is thought to be a small patrol vessel. The enemy could not be seen through binoculars. (4)

10 May 1944
At 0025I/10, to the south-east off Kii Oshima, Honshu, Japan, in position 33°20'N, 136°10'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) obtained a radar contact at a range of 5600 yards. From the bridge a small patrol craft could be seen. USS Burrfish ran around the enemy's stern at 7000 yards and resumed her course towards Shiono Misake. (4)

13 May 1944
At 0820I/13, west of Shingu, Honshu, Japan, in position 33°40'N, 136°15'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted three fishing vessels about 3000 yards distant. There were about 5 persons standing in each boat, on in the bow with a spear or harpoon. One of the vessels passed withing 800 yards.

At 1117I/13, in position 33°36'N, 136°18'E, USS Burrfish sighted a fishing trawler with a crows nest on the foremast on opposite course on the starboard bow.

At 1145I/13, another trawler, similar to the one just sighted was seen on the port side. The trawlers were about 2,5 miles apart and on parallel south-westerly courses.

At 1215I/13, a small fishing vessel was seen proceeding to the south-west.

At 2250I/13, in position 33°50'N, 136°22'E, USS Burrfish sighted the light of a boat, thought to be on the horizon. Radar picked up a contact at 3000 yards soon thereafter. USS Burrfish turned away to evade. The vessel could not be identified.

At 2310I/13, in position 33°50'N, 136°26'E, USS Burrfish obtained a radar contact at a range of 8600 yards. It was only a small pip on the radar screen. The enemy was on the starboard quarter and was thought to be the size of a trawler. His course was around 040° at 10 knots. USS Burrfish increased speed to outdistance the enemy vessel which was thought to be a patrol vessel. (4)

18 May 1944
At 2115I/18, north-west of Hachijo Jima, in position 33°25'N, 139°30'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted a light through the rain.

Ten minutes later visibility cleared in the direction of the light and it was seen that the source of the light was a southbound hospital ship which was closing rapidly. He passed about four nautical miles abeam on course 180° at 15 knots.

The hospital ship ship sighted was most likely the Tenno Maru (6076 GRT, built 1927, former Dutch Op Ten Noort) which arrived at Saipan on 22 May 1944 coming from Yokusaka which it had departed on 18 May 1944. (7)

25 May 1944
At 1829K/25, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) surfaced after a day of submerged patrol. Course was set to proceed to Pearl Harbor via Midway. (4)

31 May 1944
At 0830Y/31, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at Midway. She departed for Pearl Harbor around 1530Y/31. (4)

4 Jun 1944
At 1100VW/4, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) ended her 2nd war patrol at Pearl Harbor.

She was escorted in by USS PC 485 (Lt. W.C. Sands, USNR) which had joined around 0600VW/4.

USS Burrfish was taken in hand for post patrol refit by the Pearl Harbor Submarine Base and a relief crew from SubDiv 45. The refit included a docking in ARD-18. Refit was completed on 22 June. (8)

25 Jun 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted post refit trials at and off Pearl Harbor. (9)

27 Jun 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor.

28 Jun 1944
During 28/29 June 1944, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor. These included night exercises.

30 Jun 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is docked in ARD-1 at Pearl Harbor. (9)

2 Jul 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is undocked and then went to sea for exercises during the afternoon. (9)

3 Jul 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor. (9)

4 Jul 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is again docked in ARD-1 at Pearl Harbor. There are still problems with the propeller shafts. (9)

9 Jul 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is undocked. Sound trials proved that the problems with the propeller shafts had now been repaired. (9)

11 Jul 1944
Around 1345VW/11, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) departed from Pearl Harbor for her third war patrol. She was ordered to patrol off the Palau. She was also to carry out a special operation for which a party of nine men was embarked. They were to conduct a beach reconnaissance. USS Burrfish was also to conduct periscope reconnaissance and gather data on currents near possible landing beaches.

She was to proceed to Midway first to top off with fuel and provisions, and if needed for voyage repairs.

USS Burrfish was escorted out until sunset by USS PC-578 (Lt. A.J. Brent, USNR). (9)

15 Jul 1944
At 0815Y/15, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) arrived at Midway from Pearl Harbor.

She departed for her patrol area around 1605Y/15 after having topped off with fuel and effecting some voyage repairs. (9)

25 Jul 1944
At 2300I/25, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) received a signal from ComSubPac ordering her to patrol between 10°N / 12°N and 130°E / 133°E (well to the north-east of Palau) until further orders. (9)

27 Jul 1944
At 1945I/27, in the Philippine Sea, in position 10°39'N, 132°38'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted two patrol craft bearing 130° at a range of 5000 yards. At 4000 yards radar picked up the contacts as well. At 6000 yards contact was lost again. Visual observation indicated they were about the size of US SC-type vessels. USS Burrfish changed course to 310° at 10 knots to evade. Course was changed to 180° at 2058I/9.

At 2134I/27, the same patrol vessels were sighted again dead ahead at a range of 5000 yards. The plot shows them on course 270° making 5 knots. USS Burrfish evaded them once more. It was now also apparent that there was nothing of interest, like a convoy, following these vessels. (9)

28 Jul 1944
At 2200I/28, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) received instructions from ComSubPac to proceed to her assigned patrol area near Palau. Course was set to comply with these orders.

USS Burrfish arrived near Palau in the early hours of the 30th. (9)

31 Jul 1944
At 1520I/31, north of Anguar Island, Palau, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted a small motor sampan with a Japanese ensign flying at a range of about 700 yards. Due to his subsequent course changes it appeared that the enemy was suspicious of something. To avoid being sighted and reported USS Burrfish went deep and left the small vessel astern. (9)

5 Aug 1944
At 0020I/5, about 15 nautical miles to the west of Anguar Island, in position 07°00'N, 133°50'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted smoke bearing 209°. Bearing remained constant.

At 0024I/5, the tops of a ship could be made out. USS Burrfish dived to avoid detection by a radar equipped enemy aircraft which was patrolling in the area. No HE was heard on diving.

At 0051I/5, a stick of three aerial bombs was dropped at an estimated distance of 2 miles.

At 0055I/5, faint HE was picked up on bearing 209°. It was closing.

At 0114I/5, the HE went louded. A light set of screws was picked up as well as a slightly heaver set. The horizon was extremely clear with excellent visibility. Burrfish changed course to the left and remained on course 160° until 0207I/5. The screws were still audible but gradually faded out. Nothing could be seen through the periscope.

At 0245I/5, USS Burrfish surfaced but nothing was seen. Burrfish then headed down the bearing of the contact but at 0317I/5, she had to dive for a rapidly closing aircraft. It is not known what type of vessels the contact had been. (9)

9 Aug 1944
At 2300I/9, in approximate position 07°03'N, 132°47'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) made rendezvous with USS Balao (T/Cdr. M.F.R. de Arellano, USN) which is to proceed to Saipan at the end of her patrol. Some mail and intelligence reports are transferred from USS Burrfish to USS Balao. A spare part of the SJ radar was transferred from USS Balao to USS Burrfish. They parted company an hour later. (10)

11 Aug 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) launched a rubber boat with a party of five off the southeast end of Peleliu Island. They conducted a reconnaissance / hydro-graphic survey of the reef. They later returned having successfully completed their mission though further reconnaissance would be needed.

15 Aug 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) left patrol off Babelthaup, Palau to patrol off Yap. (9)

16 Aug 1944
Off the southern coast of Yap, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) launched a rubber boat with a party to conduct a reconnaissance / hydro-graphic survey of the reef. They later returned having successfully completed their mission.

18 Aug 1944
Off north-east Gagil Tomil (near Yap), USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) launched a rubber boat with a party to conduct a reconnaissance / hydro-graphic survey of the reef. They later returned having successfully completed their mission.

20 Aug 1944
At 1850I/20, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) left patrol off Yap to proceed to Majuro Atoll. (9)

27 Aug 1944
Around 1415L/27, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) ended her third war patrol at Majuro.

She was escorted in by USS Crouter (Lt. C.F. Braught, USNR) which had joined around 0930L/27.

USS Burrfish is taken in hand for a post patrol refit by USS Sperry (T/Capt. J.P. Thew, USN) and a relief crew from Submarine Division 101. Refit was completed on 10 September. (11)

31 Aug 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is docked in USS ARD-18 at Majuro.

1 Sep 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is undocked.

14 Sep 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted trials and exercises off Majuro. (12)

15 Sep 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted trials and exercises off Majuro. (12)

16 Sep 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) conducted trials and exercises off Majuro. (12)

19 Sep 1944
At 0900L/19, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) departed from Majuro for her fourth war patrol. She was ordered to patrol of the Bonin Islands.

She was escorted out by USS Crouter (Lt. C.F. Braught, USNR) until 1300L/19.

4 Oct 1944
At 1330I/04, while patrolling submerged, south-south-east of Akusekijima, in position 29°12'N, 129°39'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted two trawler type patrol vessels on northerly courses. They passed about 3000 yards astern. (13)

13 Oct 1944
At 0147I/13, north-east of Okinawa, in position 27°04'N 129°03'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted what was thought to be an impulse bubble and track of one torpedo, which passed under the bow. The starboard lookout reported seeing two wakes which passed forward. USS Burrfish was zigzagging radically at 10 knots. Visibility was poor with no moon.

It is unlikely this was a Japanese submarine, most likely the tracks sighted were fish. (13)

16 Oct 1944
At 0200I/16, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) received instructions from ComSubPac ordering her to patrol close to Okinawa until further orders. (13)

17 Oct 1944
At 1200I/17, west of Okinawa, in position 26°32'N, 127°39'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted two trawlers on southerly courses. Range was about 4 nautical miles. Most likely this were enemy auxiliary patrol vessels. (13)

18 Oct 1944
At 1407I/18, west of Okinawa, in position 26°50'N, 127°49'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted two small sailing junks proceeding northwards to Izena Jima. (13)

19 Oct 1944
At 1903I/19, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) received instructions from ComSubPac to resume normal patrol. (13)

25 Oct 1944
While trying to attack a Japanese convoy, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) is detected by the escort and hunted but not depth charged. The attack had to be broken off.

1407I/24 - West of Amami Oshima, in position 28°27'N, 128°28'E, USS Burrfish sighted smoke of a convoy bearing 135° and also a two-engine patrol plane on the same bearing.

1420I/24 - The smoke of the convoy was drawing to the right. USS Burrfish changed course to head for it.

1440I/24 - It was thought the smoke was getting closer. Seven distinct smoke columns were seen. Course was changed to 180°. The aircraft was still visible.

1505I/24 - It was noticed that the smoke was getting more distant and drawing more to the right. USS Burrfish changed to a normal apporach course at 2/3 speed.

1630I/24 - It was definitely determined that the convoy was proceeding to the south-west. Bearing was now 187°. USS Burrfish changed course to 220° to trail till sunset.

1830I/24 - USS Burrfish surfaced in position 28°36'N, 128°18'E, and went ahead full on three engines, charging on the fourth. Set course to 200°.

1909I/24- Smoke was sighted bearing 187°.

1945I/24 - The convoy was sighted bearing 190°. Range was about 20000 yards. Commenced tracking. Worked up to the eastern side of the convoy.

2230I/24 - USS Burrfish ran on a parallel course with the convoy. Enemy course was 220° at 8 knots. They were not zigzagging. The convoy appeared to consist of three medium size ships and five or more escorts. The ships could be contacted with the SJ radar at 21000 yards and the escorts around 13000 yards.

2315I/24 - Radar contact with the convoy was lost. They had been bearing 335° at 2300I/24. Burrfish changed course to 270° to regain contact.

2320I/24 - Radar contact was regained on bearing 020° which indicated that the convoy had made a radical change of course to the left at moonset.

2340I/24 - Burrfish changed course to 000° while continuing tracking. As the moon het set Burrfish went to battle stations. <>p>2359I/24 - Burrfish changed course to 180° and continued tracking.

0000I/25 - New ememy course was determined to be 140°. Speed still 8 knots. This heads them for Iheya Jima which was about 20 miles away, and it was also thought the convoy's final destination was Naha, Okinawa. Burrfish was now on the starboard side of the convoy, 4000 yards off track. All starboard escorts were close in to the ships which were in column. Unfortunately visibility was extreme with a clear sky and calm sea. Cdr. Perkins decided to circle to the right and come in the beam or quarter of the convoy.

0008I/25 - Burrfish changed course to 140°.

0030I/25 - Burrfish changed course to the right, to 340°.

0040I/25 - The SJ radar party reported that the three starboard escorts were now at least 3000 yards on the starboard beam of the convoy. With the existing visibility it would be impossible to get through them. The leading escort on the starboard beam appeared to be the largest on the radar screen. Decided to select this escort as target. Commenced swinging right to close to attack on course 090°.

0045I/25 - Range was now 4500 yards, angle on the bow 60° starboard. It was seen that the target looked like a PC-type patrol vessel. Burrfish slowed to 5 knots and commenced swinging left to select a more suitable target.

0050I/25 - Observed the patrol vessel, the one previously selected as target, to show a puff of smoke. Range was 3000 yards. The Officer of the Deck was ordered to closely watch this ship, which had not changed course as of yet. Burrfish increased speed to 15 knots in case she was detected after all.

0053I/25 - A stern lookout reported an escort coming in fast on the starboard quarter. Burrfish increased speed to flank.

0057I/25 - At a range of 2500 yards, the escort which was coming in (thought to be a frigate) fired a Verys flare and opened fire with a 3" or 4" gun. Burrfish immediately dived. When the periscope shears went under range was only 1800 yards according to the radar. On submerging course was immediately altered. Burrfish went deep and rigged for silent running. Four rounds had been fired by the enemy while the bridge was being cleared. A barrage of depth charges was expected but none came.

0115I/25 - Much pinging was picked up on various bearings. Burrfish was running silent under a 6° gradient while steering to the north-east.

0230I/25 - No HE was picked up on the sound gear so all looked clear for the moment. Burrfish started to come up to periscope depth. At 150 feet the sound gear picked up two sets of screws pinging and closing so Burrfish went back down.

0725I/25 - Screws and pinging, sometimes close and sometimes distant had been heard continuously since 0230 hours. One ship made a complete circle of the submarine about 0430 hours. There had been three or more escorts in the area probably with the intend to keep the submarine down. They were never in contact and no depth charges had been dropped.

0812I/25 - All pinging was now distant so started to come up again.

0841I/25 - At periscope depth. Sighted a patrol vessel bearing 170° range about 5 miles. She was patrolling back and forth across the submarines stern. Position was to the north-west of Iheya Jima, in 27°23'N, 127°33'E.

0930I/25 - A single depth charge was dropped, quite distant.

1030I/25 - The patrol vessel was lost from sight. Burrfish rigger for normal running and commenced periscope patrol.

1845I/25 - Surfaced 40 miles were of Tori Shima, having been submerged for 18 hours. (13)

27 Oct 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) attacked a Japanese convoy north-west of Yokoate Jima, Ryukyu Islands in position 29°08'N, 128°45'E. Three hits are claimed on a large transport which is also claimed to have been sunk.

0245I/27 - North-west of Yokoate Jima, in position 29°10'N, 128°37'E, radar contact was obtained bearing 220° at a range of 6000 yards. Commenced tracking. The target was echo ranging.

0254I/27 - The contact closed to 5000 yards and is now visible from the bridge. It is a PC-type patrol vessel on an easterly course. Burrfish changed course to 090°.

0305I/27 - Made radar contact on two large ships bearing 270° at a range of about 20000 yards. Went to battle stations. Changed course to 100°. It was the plan to circle to right and pass astern of the patrol vessel and then close the large ships.

0310I/27 - Observed another escort on the starboard beam. This placed Burrfish on the starboard bow of the convoy and just outside the track of the two escorts. From the escorts positions on the radar screen there was not enough distance between them to slip through undetected. Cdr. Perkins decided to open out and pass astern of both of them. Course 110° was now set.

0320I/27 - The leading escort had passed astern. The second escort was now on the starboard beam, tracking on course 080°, range 4100 yards. It was now apparent the Burrfish could swing left and pass undetected between the escorts so course was set to 010° and speed was increased to 15 knots.

0331I/27 - Commenced tracking the large ships which were now visible from the bridge at a range of about 10000 yards on bearing 270°. Estimated course of the enemy was 030°. Burrfish was now on course 340° at 15 knots.

0350I/27 - Range to the large ships is now 9000 yards on bearing 268°. Enemy course was 030° at 9 knots. Burrfish slowed to 5 knots and changed course to 310° for an estimated 90° starboard track.

0356I/27 - Range was now 5500 yards to the leading ship which was the larger of the two. Two ships are disposed in line of bearing with second ship on port quarter of the leading one. Distance between the ships was about 1000 yards. One escort was close to the leading ship on his starboard bow. Another large escort, possibly a destroyer, was on the port quarter of the trailing ship. The night was dark and cloudy. The escorts were barely visible at 4000 yards.

0358I/27 - Increased speed to 15 knots an attack course of 310°.

0401I/27 - In position 29°08'N, 128°45'E, fired six bow torpedoes from 3000 to 2750 yards at a large transport.

0402I/27 - Increased speed to flank and swung left to 140° and commenced conning from the radar screen to evade the escorts. One minute and fifty seconds after firing had been commenced heard and felt the loud explosion of a torpedo hit. Shortly thereafter heard another similar explosion but not quite as loud as the first one. A third explosion was timed at two minutes and fifteen seconds. The end of run explosions were heard five and a half minute after firing.

0405I/27 - Seen from the bridge the target was completely obscured in smoke. The smoke has a yellow or brownish tinge. The pip on the radar screen became weaker and draw in bearing towards that of the trailing ship. At fourteen minutes after firing the target attack disappeared from the radar screen,. The other ship and the two escorts were plainly visible on the radar screen.

0416I/27 - During evasion Burrfish was apparently not sighted by any of the escorts. The large escort, thought to be a destroyer, came around astern of the trailing ship and passed within 3000 yards of the submarine. One of the escorts who was detached on the starboard side of the convoy came in the port beam but did not follow the submarine. No depth charges were dropped.

0430I/27 - Burrfish was now astern of the convoy with insufficient darkness remaining for an end around for another surface attack. Decided to attempt to gain a position to the north-westward of the convoy to be in position for a daylight submerged approach in case a radical zig was made to the westward at sunrise. Gradually worked around on course 000° at full speed on all engines.

0500I/27 - A contact report was sent to ComSubPac.

0552I/27 - Dived an commenced to reload the forward tubes. Continued to proceed to the north. Remained dived until 1900I/27. (13)

30 Oct 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) attempted to gain contact on a damaged Japanese tanker to the west-south-west of Tanegashima. The attempts failed and USS Burrfish was fired upon from long range, by most likely a Japanese escort vessel. The tanker in question was the Takane Maru (10021 GRT, built 1944) which was enroute from Amami Oshima to Kure being escorted by the frigates Kaibokan 22, Kaibokan 29 and Kaibokan 33.

1815I/30 - Received a report that an enemy tanker had been torpedoed and damaged to the north-west. Changed course to 300° and increased speed to 15 knots. Distance was about 30 miles.

2022I/30 - Heard several distant explosions.

2117I/30 - By D.R. Burrhish should now be in the reported position of the enemy tanker however no contact was made. Course was changed to 000°.

2213I/30 - The Officer of the Deck sighted flashes of gunfire on approximate bearing 075°. Quite distant though. Course was changed to 060°.

2227I/30 - A searchlight was seen abeam to the north-eastward.

2228I/30 - More gunfire was seen bearing 105°. Possibly from the same source as had earlier be seen. Course was changed to 100°.

2240I/30 - A ship was sighted on the horizon bearing 035°. Course was changed to head towards it.

2258I/30 - Made radar contact on the ship bearing 048° at a range of 18000 yards. Went to battle stations, slowed down to 10 knots and commenced tracking.

2302I/30 - Obtained radar contact on a second ship bearing 060°, range 14000 yards.

2308I/30 - Range to the initial radar contact had come down to 11000 yards. Thought the ship to be a Japanese frigate or another large type of escort. Commenced swinging left to parallel and continue tracking.

2310I/30 - The second ship contacted by radar was never visible from the bridge. It fired a salvo of six 4" or 5" shells at Burrfish from a radar range of about 9000 yards. The firing ship was bearing 130° relative. Burrfish then dived. Due to a malfunction the port shaft only could be used now. Burrfish continued a normal approach course on one shaft only. The second shaft was back in service just before midnight. No HE was picked up during this time.

0030I/31 - HE of fast screws was picked up on bearing 115°. Not close.

0038I/31 - Five distinct explosions were heard, several of which were thought to have been torpedo explosions.

0043I/31 - Breaking up noises were heard which continued until 0100I/31.

0100I/31 - Burrfish surfaced. It was thought that the breaking up noises heard were from the damaged tanker that had now been sunk by one of the other submarines involved in the hunt for it. SJ interference had been noticed on several bearings throughout the night. (14)

31 Oct 1944
At 2138I/31, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) received orders from ComSubPac to proceed to Saipan. (13)

5 Nov 1944
Around 0500I/5, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) made rendezvous with USS Besugo (Cdr. T.L. Wogan, USN) and their escort to Saipan, USS PGM-9 (Lt. C. Morgan, USNR).

Around 1030I/5, USS Burrfish arrived at Saipan where she was immediately taken in hand for repairs by USS Fulton (T/Capt. A.A. Clarkson, USN). (13)

10 Nov 1944
Around 1500I/10, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) departed Saipan to resume her fourth war partol.

She was now part of Task Group 17.24 which was besides, Burrfish made up of the USS Saury (T/Lt.Cdr. R.A. Waugh, USN), USS Tambor (T/Cdr. W.J. Germershausen, Jr., USN), USS Silversides (T/Cdr. J.S. Coye, Jr., USN with T/Cdr. T.B. Klakring, USN on board as group commander), USS Trigger (T/Cdr. F.J. Harlfinger II, USN), USS Sterlet (T/Cdr. O.C. Robbins, USN) and USS Ronquil (T/Cdr. H.S. Monroe, USN). They were to patrol off the Bonin Islands as a coordinated attack group to deal with the many enemy patrol vessels / picket boats encountered in that area.

On departure from Saipan, USS Besugo (T/Cdr. T.L. Wogan, USN) was also with them but she parted company around 2300I/11 (she was not a part of the coordinated attack group). The submarines had been escorted by USS Caution (Lt.Cdr. F.C. Crane, USNR) until around 2145I/10. (13)

16 Nov 1944
At 1700I/16, south of Aogashima, Bonin Islands, in position 31°54'N, 139°51'E, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) sighted two trawler type patrol vessels through the high periscope on a southerly course bearing 330°. Also USS Ronquil (T/Cdr. H.S. Monroe, USN) was seen bearing 260° apparently tracking the enemy from their starboard bow.

Later in the evening USS Ronquil attacked them sinking one of them. (13)

17 Nov 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) and USS Ronquil (T/Cdr. H.S. Monroe, USN) heavily damaged the Japanese guard boat Fusa Maru (177 GRT) south-south-east of Hachiro Jima, Japan in position 32°33'N, 140°10'E.

During the engagement, USS Burrfish is damaged by gunfire from the Japanese ship and USS Ronquil is damaged, most likely, by the premature explosion of a 40mm shell.

0430I/17 - Tracking the remaining armed trawler of the engagement of USS Ronquil of last night. Confirmed the plans for gun attack over VHF. The target was now proceeding northwards.

0500I/17 - Commenced manoeuvring tp take station about 1200 yards astern of Ronquil on course 330°, while preparing for gun attack.

0540I/17 - Ronquil was now on the port quarter of the target at a range of about 1000 yards. She opened fire with 40mm and small arms. Target was still proceeding north.

0545I/17 - In position 32°33'N, 140°10'E, Burrfish, on the same course as Ronquil, about 1000 yards astern of her opened fire with the 4" gun from 2000 yards on bearing 40° relative, target angle about 200°. The target almost immediately swung right and came to course opposite and parallel to the course of the submarines.

0546I/17 - The 20mm guns joined in.

0547I/17 - The target opened fire on Ronquil with machine guns.

0549I/17 - Burrfish also opened fire with .30 cal. The target was now abeam to starboard at 1300 yards range. The target then circled to his left and steadied on course directly towards Burrfish which immediately secured the 4" gun in anticipation of a course change. The sea conditions were such that if course needed to be changed the sea would was the gun crew over the side. Up to this time Burrfish had observed several hits from the Ronquil's 40mm fire and two hits from her own 4". 20mm fire from both submarines had also hit the target.

0553I/9 - Burrfish swung left and increased to flank speed. The target was now astern at 700 yards. His complete turn towards had caught Burrfish off guard. It was thought he was turning away to attempt to escape. Ronquil was now firing with their 5" gun. The enemy obtained several hits in Burrfish's periscope shears and bridge with small calibre fire. Two men were wounded.

0558I/9 - Burrfish slowed to standard speed. She was now out of range of enemy small arms.

0605I/9 - Burrfish ceased firing. Ronquil was still shooting with her 5" gun.

0614I/9 - Ronquil was still firing with her 5" gun but now also with 40mm. A 5" shell was seen to hit the enemy in the stern causing a cloud of black smoke.

0627I/9 - The target was no longer visible through the high periscope. It is not known if the target had been sunk. Ronquil, which was much closer to the target reported that she too was retiring.

0630I/9 - Ronquil requisted Burrfish to stand by while they effected repairs as there were two holes in the pressure hull.

0730I/9 - Burrfish took course 090° in company with Ronquil who had made temporary repairs and if needed can make an emergency dive.

0815i/9 - Burrfish cleared a message to CTG 24 on board USS Silversides for relay to ComSubPac requisting intruction and also reporting the damage to Ronquil and the wounded men in Burrfish.

0845I/9 - Sighted a Rufe floatplane (Nakajima A6M2-N) coming in at a range of 4 miles. Dived in position 32°34'N, 140°28'E.

0848I/9 - Heard an aerial bomb explode. Not close.

1006I/9 - Surfaced to find Ronquil already on the surface. Ronquil reported she could dive to 100 feet and was continuing the sweep. Burrfish then parted company as orders had been received to proceed to Saipan with the wounded men.

19 Nov 1944
At 1807/19, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) made rendezvous with USS Grayson (T/Cdr. W.V. Pratt, 2nd, USN). Due to the rough sea and the condition of the heavily injured patient decided not to transfer him at sea.

They now proceeded in company towards Saipan. (15)

21 Nov 1944
Around 1130I/21, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) and her escort, USS Grayson (T/Cdr. W.V. Pratt, 2nd, USN), arrived at Saipan.

At Saipan some minor repairs were made to USS Burrfish by USS Fulton (T/Capt. A.A. Clarkson, USN). (15)

22 Nov 1944
Around 0900I/22, USS Halibut (T/Cdr. I.J. Galantin, USN) and USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) departed Saipan for Pearl Harbor.

They were escorted out until 1535I/9, by USS PC-581 (Lt. W. Hitz, USNR).

Around 1900I/9, the submarines parted company to proceed independently. (13)

2 Dec 1944
Around 1100VW/2, USS Burrfish (T/Cdr. W.B. Perkins, Jr., USN) ended her fourth war patrol at Pearl Harbor.

She was escorted in by USS PC 485 (Lt. W.H. Curtiss, Jr. USNR) which had joined around 0630W/2.

At Pearl Harbor USS Burrfish was taken in hand for refit by USS Pelias (T/Capt. W.A. Swanston, USN). Refit was completed on 23 December 1944.

24 Dec 1944
During 24/25 December 1944, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor. These included night exercises.

During the 24th, these exercises were carried out with USS Cabana (Lt.Cdr. R.L. Bence, USNR). (16)

26 Dec 1944
During 26/27 December 1944, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor. These included night exercises.

28 Dec 1944
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) and USS Sterlet (Lt.Cdr. H.H. Lewis, Jr., USNR) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Doherty (Lt. W.J. O'Brien, USNR) and USS Elden (Lt. C.E. Snedeker, USNR).

29 Dec 1944
During 29/30 December 1944, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) and USS Sterlet (Lt.Cdr. H.H. Lewis, Jr., USNR) conducted exercises off Pearl Harbor with USS Chew (Cdr. A.G. Grant, USNR), USS Doherty (Lt. W.J. O'Brien, USNR) and USS Elden (Lt. C.E. Snedeker, USNR). These included night exercises.

3 Jan 1945
Around 1330VW/3, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) departed from Pearl Harbor for her fifth war patrol. She was ordered to patrol south of Japan.

She was to proceed to Midway first to top off with fuel and provisions. At Midway also voyage repairs could be undertaken if required.

USS Burrfish was escorted out until 2000VW/3 by USS PC-1077 (Lt. C.G. Schmidt, USNR). (17)

8 Jan 1945
Around 0930Y/8, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived at Midway from Pearl Harbor.

She departed for her patrol area around 1500Y/8. (17)

9 Jan 1945
At 1428Y/9, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) reversed course to return to Midway due to defects to a generator. (17)

10 Jan 1945
At 0930Y/10, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived back at Midway where she was taken in hand for repairs. (17)

14 Jan 1945
At 1100Y/14, with the repairs completed, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) departed Midway to proceed to her patrol area. (17)

22 Jan 1945
At 2100I/22, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived in her patrol area. She had meanwhile been assigned to air / sea rescue lifeguard duty. She arrived in her assigned position at 1352I/23. (17)

24 Jan 1945
At 0100I/24, instruction were received by USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) to make rendezvous with USS Pogy (T/Lt.Cdr. P.G. Molteni, Jr., USN) and USS Ronquil (T/Lt.Cdr. R.B. Lander, USN).

Rendezvous was effected at 1700I/24 to the north of Tori Shima, Bonin Islands in position 31°00'N, 140°20'E. A 50 knot gale blowing and mountainous sea however prevented information being passed by line between the submarines so at 2030I/24, USS Burrfish which was group commander, passed information to the other two submarines through VHF. A search was then commenced by all three submarines, procceding on course 090° at 10 knots. The submarines were placed 20 miles apart. (17)

25 Jan 1945
At 0338I/25, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) received a contact report from USS Ronquil (T/Lt.Cdr. R.B. Lander, USN). USS Burrfish set course to intercept.

At 0420I/25, a report was received from USS Ronquil that two small targets were on course 180° at 10 knots.

At 0524I/25, east-north-east of Tori Shima, Bonin Islands, in position 30°42'N, 141°57'E, USS Burrfish obtained radar contact on the target group but there was only one target apparent. Dawn was fast approaching and Burrfish attempted to get into a position ahead of the target.

At 0550I/25, USS Ronquil reported that the targets were shallow draft vessels and that she was abandoning her attack.

At 0607I/25, USS Burrfish sighted the target, A PC-type patrol vessels. Course was changed to open out.

At 0705I/25, USS Ronquil reported an unidentified contact to the northward of her. It was believed this was the patrol vessel sighted earlier on board USS Burrfish.

At 0723I/25, patrol orders for the day were sent to the other two pack members (USS Ronquil and USS Pogy (T/Lt.Cdr. P.G. Molteni, Jr., USN)).

At 1100I/25, USS Burrfish arrived in position 30°00'N, 141°38'E near which she patrolled for almost the remainder of the day.

At 2330OI/25, the pack was formed on a line of bearing 077° - 257° and commenced to sweep northwards towards Hachijo Jima on course 347° and 9 knots. These was a scouting interval of 20 miles between the submarines. (17)

26 Jan 1945
At 0430I/26, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) received orders to dissolve the wolf-pack and proceed to a newly assigned air /sea rescue lifeguard station.

She arrived in her assigned position (north-north-east of Muko Jima in position 28°30'N, 142°35'E) at 1446I/27. (17)

27 Jan 1945
At 1950I/27, having received no indications of downed aircraft in her billet, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) set course to patrol off Chichi Jima at 2/3 speed to dive off there at dawn.

At 2345I/27, a message was received that a B-29 bomber had been downed only 10 nautical miles from the previous lifeguard station. Course was changed and headed for the position indicated at full speed. (17)

28 Jan 1945
At 0158I/28, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived in the position where the B-29 was reported to have been ditched. A course down wind was set at 2/3 speed and extra lookouts were stationed. Also a watch was set on 500 KC.

At 0245I/28, Burrfish fired a green Very rocket.

At 0359I/28, Burrfish fired another green Very rocket.

At 0604I/28, a message was received ordering Burrfish to proceed to a different position where another B-29 was down. Course was set to proceed there at full power. The aircraft Burrfish was searching for was 55 miles north-east of the first given location. USS Ronquil (T/Lt.Cdr. R.B. Lander, USN) was ordered to proceed to this new location and conduct a search.

At 1310I/28, Burrfish sighted a B-29 in the air bearing 250° at a distance of 17 miles. Position of the aircraft was 26°40'N, 144°40'E. As it was thought this was one of the aircraft detailed to search for the downed aircraft made every effort to contact him but to no evail.

At 1510I/28, Burrfish arrived in the ordered position and commenced a search down drift for 10 miles.

At 1640I/28, Burrfish slowed down and commenced an explanding search plan until dark.

At 1800I/28, Burrfish abondoned the search and proceeded southwards.

At 2145I/28, a signal was received ordering Burrfish to continue the search. Course was reversed to comply with this signal. (17)

29 Jan 1945
At 0440I/29, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) set course for a new rendezvous with a B-29 search aircraft that had been signalled to her.

At 0705I/29, Burrfish arrived in the rendezvous position (25°55'N, 145°00'E).

At 0716I/29, a B-29 bomber was seen at a distance of 15 miles. The aircraft could not be contacted.

At 0743I/29, the B-29 was again sighted and finally communications were successfully established.

At 0808I/29, a search was commenced from position 25°50'N, 144°54'E on course 140° at 10 knots. The aircraft covered a 30 mile front on either side of the base course making a total front of 60 miles.

At 1520I/29, the search was discontinued after the aircraft had left to return to her base. 60 miles had been covered for no result.

At 1525I/29, USS Burrfish set course for Iwo Jima. Haha Jima was closer but the course to get there would head the submarine directly into heavy seas. (17)

30 Jan 1945
At 0410I/30, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) received a signal ordering her to continue to search for the downed aircraft. At that point Burrfish was 50 miles from Iwo Jima and 120 miles from the rendezvous with the aircraft that was to assist in the search.

At 0445I/30, course was reversed to proceed to the search area for the downed aircraft.

At 1153I/30, A B-29 was sighted on the assigned station. A search was then started in cooperation with the aircraft which ended at 1625I/30, when the aircraft departed the search area to return to her base. USS Burrfish then set course to patrol off Haha Jima. (17)

31 Jan 1945
At 0308I/31, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) received orders to guard on 4475 KC and that B-29's would be stearching throughout the day.

At 0530I/31, Burrfish reversed course to head towards the search area which is now near position 25°50'N, 142°40'E.

At 0700I/31, Burrfish submerged. She would listed on 4475 KC every half an hour using the SD radar antenna.

At 0915I/31, Burrfish surfaced and exchanged recognition calls with an aircraft.

At 0935I/31, Burrfish submerged again. She surfaced again at 1114I/31.

No aircraft showed up today to aid Burrfish in her search. The aircraft spotted earlier was searching together with USS Ronquil (T/Lt.Cdr. R.B. Lander, USN).

At 1700I/31, USS Burrfish set course to patrol off Haha Jima. During the next day Burrfish patrolled along the Haha Jima / Iwo Jimo shipping route. (17)

1 Feb 1945
At 1748I/1, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) surfaced after a day of submerged patrol near Haha Jima. Course was then set to 315° to proceed to a newly assigned air / sea rescue lifeguard position.

At 2035I/1, west-north-west of Haha Jima, in position 26°51'N, 141°30'E, obtained radar contact at a range of 8000 yards. The target could not be seen as the moon had not risen yet. Range of detection indicated the target to be a small so manoeuvred to avoid as it was most likely a patrol vessel.

At 2131I/1, in position 26°57'N, 141°22'E, obtained radar contact at a range of 8000 yards.

At 2138I/1, visual contact was obtained on two small patrol craft or trawlers at 8000 yards down moon. There was now bright moonlight with a calm sea. Burrfish avoided the contact. (17)

2 Feb 1945
At 1201I/2, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) received a message that the lifeguard duties were cancelled and that she was to team up with USS Ronquil (T/Lt.Cdr. R.B. Lander, USN) and form a wolf-pack.

Later USS Burrfish sent orders to USS Ronquil giving a time and place of the rendezvous to the 10 miles to the south of Sofu Gan Rock. (17)

3 Feb 1945
At 0050I/3, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) and USS Ronquil (T/Lt.Cdr. R.B. Lander, USN) made contact to the south of Sofu Gan Rock. By VHF a patrol plan was given by Burrfish to Ronquil.

At 0100I/3, USS Burrfish set course 145° heading towards the northern Bonin Islands with USS Ronquil opening out to 20 miles on the port beam.

At 1844I/3, a message was received that an aviator was down off Iwo Jima so after decoding, at 1902I/3, USS Burrfish went ahead full on course 180° with 180 miles to go. USS Ronquil received orders for other lifeguard duties further north. (17)

4 Feb 1945
At 0824I/4, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived in position 24°35'N, 142°38'E where an aircraft would be met to commence a search. The aircraft had not arrived yet though so at 0941I/4, with the aircraft still not on the scene, USS Burrfish commenced a search. Later three times aircraft were sighted but communications could not be established.

At 1758I/4, the search was discontinued due to the darkness. (17)

5 Feb 1945
At 0717I/5, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) resumed the search for the downed aviator from position 24°22'N, 142°57'E. There was no assistance from an aircraft during the search.

At 1905I/5, the search was ended and USS Burrfish set course for the north-west at 10 knots to patrol on the Haha Jima / Iwo Jima shipping route the next day. (17)

8 Feb 1945
At 2100I/8, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN), which had been patrolling near Haha Jima the past few days, received ordered to proceed northwards for lifeguard duties. Course was set accordingly and she arrived in her assigned station at 1655I/9 but the air strikes were delayed by a day and would now take place on the 10th. (17)

11 Feb 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) is damaged by depth charges off Muko Jima, Bonin Islands in position 27°51'N, 141°55'E after a failed torpedo attack on a Japanese patrol vessel. She is able to remain on patrol.

0945I/11 - In position 27°51'N, 141°55'E, sighted the tops of a ship to the left of Muko Shima Retto. Changed course to get ahead of the enemy.

1000I/11 - Submerged on a normal approach course. The target looks like a destroyer.

1005Í/11 - Went to battle stations and started attack. The target was thought to be an early type submarine chaser.

1034I/11 - In position fired three bow torpedoes from 2200 yards.

1035I/11 - Heard a torpedo explosion, fist thought to be a hit but as this was too soon it was then thought it must have been a premature. The target was then seen to turn towards so Burrfish immediately went deep and hauled off the torpedo track. Depth of the water was 80 fathoms.

1041I/11 - A depth charge was dropped, ahead and above followed about 30 seconds later by another one, also ahead and above.

1120I/11 - A series of depth charges was dropped which really rocked the submarine and caused some damage. There were now two enemy vessels hunting. Burrfish tried to get clear to the west to get into deeper water later also dropping two noise makers to shake off the enemy.

1230I/11 - A series of about 20 aerial bombs were dropped, above and astern.

1240I/11 - A string of 18 depth charges was dropped over a 2.5 minute period. They close above and astern but fortunately not as close as the ones dropped at 1120 hours. From then on the enemy kept making passed overhead but did not drop any more depth charges. Meanwhile Burrfish was at 450 feet proceeding on course 270° running as silent as possible.

1505I/11 - Heard 16 depth charges.

1610I/11 - Came up to 200 feet and secured from silent running.

1643I/11 - Heard 3 distant depth charges.

1805I/11 - Upon inspection of the torpedoes in the tubes. All were found to have defects which were repaired.

1915I/11 - Surfaced and cleared the area at high speed.

2115I/11 - Course was set to leave patrol and proceed to Guam in accordance with orders.

12 Feb 1945
At 1250I/12, when in position 26°00'N, 138°00'E, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) received orders to proceed to position 25°00'N, 132°00'E (near the Daito Islands) for a special mission.

At 2030I/12, a signal was received with the duties for the upcoming week (probably mostly weather reporting). (17)

21 Feb 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted a periscope reconnaissance of Okidaito Jima and it's phosphate plant. Nothing of interest was seen though and no shipping was present.

In the evening USS Burrfish left patrol to proceed to Guam. She was to make rendezvous with USS Peto (T/Cdr. R.H. Caldwell, Jr., USN) to take off an injured crewmember of that submarine. This rendezvous was effected at 1000I/22. (17)

24 Feb 1945
Around 1620I/24, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) ended her fifth war patrol at Guam.

She was escorted in by USS Roe (T/Cdr. J.P. Craft, Jr., USN) which had joine around 1300I/24.

At Guam, USS Burrfish was taken in hand for refit by USS Apollo (T/Capt. J.C. McCutchen, USN) and a relief crew from Submarine Division 282.

16 Mar 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted exercises off Guam. (18)

17 Mar 1945
USS Blackfish (T/Cdr. R.F. Sellars, USN), USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) and USS Bang (T/Lt.Cdr. O.W. Bagby, Jr., USN) conducted exercises off Guam with USS Doherty (Lt.Cdr. W.J. O'Brien, USNR), USS Baron (Lt.Cdr. W.M. Dickerson, USNR) and USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR).

18 Mar 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted exercises off Guam with USS Baron (Lt.Cdr. W.M. Dickerson, USNR) and USS Greenlet (Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hodgson, Jr., USNR).

19 Mar 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted exercises off Guam.

23 Mar 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted exercises off Guam with USS Baron (Lt.Cdr. W.M. Dickerson, USNR).

25 Mar 1945
Around 1500K/25, USS Snook (T/Cdr. J.F. Walling, USN), USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) and USS Bang (T/Lt.Cdr. O.W. Bagby, Jr., USN) departed Guam for their ninth, sixth and sixth war patrols respectively.

They were ordered to patrol in Luzon Strait as a coordinated attack group under command of T/Cdr. Walling in USS Snook.

They were escorted out by USS PC-1082 (Lt. N.P. Bard, USNR) until 1800K/25.

Around 2330K/25, USS Snook left formation to return to Guam to make repairs. USS Burrfish assumed command of the pack. (19)

29 Mar 1945
Around 2359I/29, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) and USS Bang (T/Lt.Cdr. O.W. Bagby, Jr., USN) parted company. (18)

31 Mar 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-east Formosa. (18)

1 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

2 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

3 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

4 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

5 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

6 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

7 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

8 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

9 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa.

At 1400I/9, she left her lifeguard station to patrol on the Formosa - Luzon shipping lane. (18)

10 Apr 1945
At 0124I/10, while patrolling in Luzon Strait, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) suffered a battery explosion in the torpedo which is in No.1 torpedo tube. The fire could not be put out and the torpedo was fired (jettisoned) at 0146I/10.

At 0552I/10, left the area to return to her lifeguard station off south-west Formasa in which she arrived at 0950I/10. (18)

11 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

12 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

13 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

14 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

15 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

16 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

17 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

18 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

19 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

20 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

21 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

22 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

23 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

24 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

25 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

26 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

27 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

28 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) conducted lifeguard duties off south-west Formosa. (18)

30 Apr 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) bombarded an already damaged Japanese radio station on Batan Island, Philippines.

0440I/30 - Now five miles from the firing point, commenced closing the island at full speed.

0500I/30 - As it became lighter it was seen that someone had already attacked the radio station and that the radio towers were horizontal.

0507I/30 - Opened fire with the 4" gun at buildings in the vicinity of the radio towers. Range was 4500 yards.

0512I/30 - Ceased firing as the gun was malfunctioning. Twenty-six rounds had been expended and several hits had been obtained but no apparent damage was visible.

0555I/30 - Set course to proceed to Saipan.

1000I/30 - Left the patrol area. (18)

4 May 1945
Around 1100K/4, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived at Saipan. Some voyage repairs were then made by USS Orion (T/Cdr. G.L. Shane, Jr., USN).

She was escorted in by USS LCI(L)-1062 (Lt. W.O. Crawford, USNR) which had joined around 0630K/4.

5 May 1945
Around 1200K/5, USS Bumper (T/Cdr. J.W. Williams, Jr., USN) departed Saipan for her patrol area and USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) departed Saipan for Pearl Harbor.

They were escorted out by USS LCI(L)-1062 (Lt. W.O. Crawford, USNR) until 1615K/5 when all ships parted company with each other. (20)

13 May 1945
Around 1000VW/13, USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) ended her sixth war patrol at Pearl Harbor.

She had been joined by an escort [identity not given in the patrol report] around 0600VW/13.

18 May 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) departed Pearl Harbor for San Francisco.

23 May 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived at San Francisco from Pearl Harbor.

31 May 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN), USS Picuda (T/Cdr. E.T. Shepard, USN) and USS Bang (T/Lt.Cdr. O.W. Bagby, Jr., USN) departed San Francisco for Balboa, Panama Canal Zone. They were escorted out by USS PC-608 (?) and USS PC-799 (?)

10 Jun 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived at Balboa, Panama Canal Zone from San Francisco. She was escorted in by USS MacLeish (Lt. D.S. Cramer, USNR).

12 Jun 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) departed Colon, Panama Canal Zone for the Portsmouth Navy Yard at Kittery, Maine.

19 Jun 1945
USS Burrfish (T/Lt.Cdr. M.H. Lytle, USN) arrived at the Portsmouth Navy Yard at Kittery, Maine for a major refit.

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