E.L. Robertson 1986
Sinking of U-173
My most vivid recollection is of the depth charging and possible sinking of a German Submarine on the afternoon of 16 November 1942. I know the Swanson was partially credited for this.
The Swanson made the first contact and attack, because I had the conn. I recall passing through wreckage and oil on our second attack, and I further recall a subsequent blinker signal from Captain Heffernan (ComDesRon 13) saying “Cease the attack. You are attacking a sunken French merchantman”.
I do not believe the U.S.S. Quick was anywhere near us at the time of the attack. The Woolsey, as I recall it, dropped charges once, right after our second attack.. Although the three destroyers which attacked were given joint credit for this sinking, I shall always believe the Swanson alone sank it.
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The most Memorable Word ever passed from the Swanson Bridge:
“Now hear this: the starboard head is out of commission – use the port head”.
(Jasick QM3/c, enroute to Casablanca.)
Note: The late Captain E.L. Robertson , Jr. was the Executive officer at the time and was on the bridge when contact was obtained and took the Conn for the attack. On 1December 1942 he assumed command of the Swanson and served as Commanding Officer until 16 May 1944, when as a Commander he was transferred.