After 11 days at sea, the Sitkoh Bay arrives in Manus.
10 September 1944
USS Sitkoh Bay (CVE 86) In Port at Manus
Manus, is quite a strange looking island. We came in this morning and the weather was quite bad. It’s been raining all day and although we’re south of the Equator it seems cold and leaves you with a chill.
Images of Seeadler Harbor, Manus, 1944; from Naval History and Heritage Command
When we came in the channel we were followed by about 5 sharks. They like ugly characters with their fins cutting the calm waters. It seems funny how the water changes to a cold dark grey. Somehow this change affects your own feelings I’ve noticed.
There’s a number of ships here, mostly Tankers and Escort Carriers. Guess it’s just the train of the fleet. I heard that the fleet is striking the Philippines. I kinda wish I was with them.
I was quite disappointed in not getting the works when we crossed the Equator. It seems that the CO didn’t want it held. We stood on deck tho and watched the Barnes holding court; it looked like the boys were really taking hell.
Ensign Kelley's WWII Service 