Newcomb figured prominently in the classic torpedo attack at the Battle of Surigao Strait, 24–25 October 1944, during which the American battle line opened fire directly overhead in spectacular display. Firing at a range of three nautical miles, Newcomb counted three timed torpedo hits on the Japanese flagship, battleship Yamashiro, which sank shortly thereafter.

Details of this action are described in Newcomb’s deck log, action report and war diary.