The Remarkable Story Of PT Boats In The Philippines And The Rescue Of General

During World War II, the archipelago of the Philippines faced immense challenges as it became a major battleground between the Allied forces and the Imperial Japanese Army. Among the numerous heroic tales that emerged from this tumultuous period, the story of PT boats and the remarkable rescue of General Douglas MacArthur stands out as a true testament to the courage and determination of those involved.

The Birth of PT Boats

PT (Patrol Torpedo) boats were small, nimble vessels designed for fast attacks and reconnaissance missions. Created by the United States Navy in the early 20th century, PT boats became an integral part of naval operations during World War II. Their ability to navigate shallow waters made them particularly effective in the Pacific theater, where numerous islands and coral reefs posed challenges for larger ships.

In the Philippines, the need for PT boats was even more pronounced due to the intricate network of waterways that connected the islands. These boats became the lifeline for both military personnel and civilians, providing transportation, supplies, and support in the midst of the war.

Under a Blood Red Sun: The Remarkable Story of PT Boats in the Philippines and the Rescue of General MacArthur

by John J. Domagalski(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16670 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	433 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Heroic PT Boat Crews

The crews of PT boats were composed of brave men who faced constant danger to ensure the success of their missions. These dedicated sailors often had to confront enemy forces alone or in small groups, relying on their quick reflexes and strategic thinking to outwit the enemy.

One notable PT boat squadron that played a crucial role in the Philippines was Squadron 41, also known as the Ron 41. Led by Lieutenant John D. Bulkeley, the squadron included brave officers and men like Ensign Harl Pease, who later received the Medal of Honor for his exceptional valor.

General MacArthur's Escape and the PT Boats

In 1942, as the Japanese forces closed in on the Philippine capital of Manila, General Douglas MacArthur was ordered to evacuate and regroup. Determined to fulfill his promise of returning to liberate the Philippines, MacArthur famously declared, "I shall return."

Under heavy Japanese fire, MacArthur and his compatriots made a harrowing escape from Corregidor Island, a vital defensive outpost. Their destination was Australia, where MacArthur could regroup and plan for the eventual liberation of the Philippines.

During this treacherous journey, PT boats played a crucial role. Led by Lieutenant John D. Bulkeley, a group of PT boats was responsible for transporting MacArthur and his family to safety. The plan was risky, as they would have to navigate through Japanese-infested waters, but the crew was determined to succeed.

A Daring Rescue

On March 11, 1942, the PT boats arrived at the designated spot near Corregidor Island. Despite facing intense enemy fire, they managed to successfully locate MacArthur and his family. With precise maneuvering, they evaded Japanese patrols and swiftly embarked their precious cargo.

The daring rescue mission became a symbol of hope for the Filipino people and the Allied forces. MacArthur's safe evacuation proved that PT boats were not only agile and efficient but also capable of executing high-risk operations with precision.

The Legacy of PT Boats in the Philippines

The successful rescue of General MacArthur created a lasting legacy for PT boats in the Philippines. Recognizing their strategic importance, the United States Navy further increased their production and deployment in the region.

PT boats continued to play vital roles, conducting surveillance, engaging in skirmishes, and providing vital support to ground troops throughout the rest of the war in the Philippines. They contributed significantly to the ultimate liberation of the archipelago from Japanese occupation.

The story of PT boats in the Philippines and the rescue of General Douglas MacArthur is a testament to the bravery and ingenuity of those involved. Despite facing overwhelming odds, the crew of the PT boats displayed exceptional courage and determination, ensuring the safe evacuation of one of the most prominent military figures of the time.

Their heroic efforts demonstrated the crucial role played by PT boats in the war and solidified their place in history. The legacy of these remarkable vessels and the brave men who crewed them will forever be remembered as an integral part of the Philippine's struggle for liberation during World War II.

Under a Blood Red Sun: The Remarkable Story of PT Boats in the Philippines and the Rescue of General MacArthur

by John J. Domagalski(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16670 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	433 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The author of Into the Dark Water “balances scholarly research with accessible storytelling” to tell the heroic WWII account of Torpedo Boat Squadron 3 (Midwest Book Review).

During the opening days of World War II in the Pacific, a small group of American sailors in the Philippines were propelled into the forefront of the fighting against the navy and air power of Imperial Japan. They were manned with six small, wooden PT-boats and led by a courageous, larger-than-life character in Lt. John D. Bulkeley.

As America’s defense of the Philippines crumbled under the weight of a massive Japanese assault, the courageous activities of Bulkeley’s Torpedo Boat Squadron 3 made headlines across the United States—often as the only good news coming from the bleak Pacific front. The unit achieved everlasting fame by evacuating Gen. Douglas MacArthur from the front. Then, the squadron continued to fight on until all six of its torpedo boats were lost under fire. The fate of the doomed American defenders was sealed when the Japanese won the battle for the islands in the spring of 1942.

The exploits of the unit were immortalized in the blockbuster 1945 movie They Were Expendable, starring John Wayne and Robert Montgomery, but since then, the saga of Bulkeley and his men has slipped into history. Under a Blood Red Sun revives the story of the Philippine PT-boats through the intertwined accounts of Bulkeley and his subordinate officers and men. It is a story of the courage and sacrifice of men thousands of miles from their homeland, representing American gallantry and fighting prowess, giving the Japanese a taste of what was to come their way.