Crash Boat: Rescue and Peril in the Pacific During World War II

During World War II, an American crash boat crewed by unknown heroes in the South Pacific performed dramatic rescues of downed pilots and clandestine missions off Japanese-held islands, doing extraordinary things at great peril and with little fanfare. Nicknamed Sea Horse, the vessel and her crew were credited with over 30 rescues, fought a fierce gun battle, experienced life in isolated native villages, and played a supporting role in America's return to the Philippines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The captivating tale unfolds of an American crash boat crew, comprised of unknown heroes, who valiantly served in the South Pacific during World War II. Their daring rescues of downed pilots and covert missions off Japanese-held islands were executed in perilous conditions, with minimal recognition. This remarkable story, narrated by George D. Jepson, captures the extraordinary actions of ordinary young men. Earl A. McCandlish, the commander of the 63-foot crash boat P-399, recounts the experiences of the vessel and her crew. Nicknamed Sea Horse, the boat and her crew were instrumental in over 30 rescues, engaging in fierce gun battles with enemy forces, immersing themselves in the lives of isolated native villages, undertaking whimsical boondoggle missions, and contributing to America's triumphant return to the Philippines.

The crew of the P-399 consisted of a diverse group of individuals, each with their own unique story and background. Among them was Lieutenant Commander William J. "Bill" Gorman, a seasoned officer with a reputation for bravery and leadership. Gorman's unwavering commitment to his mission and his ability to inspire his crew were instrumental in the success of their operations.

Another notable member of the crew was Lieutenant Junior Grade John D. "Jack" Stewart, a young officer who joined the Navy at the age of 17. Stewart's determination and quick thinking were crucial in many of the rescues they undertook. He was known for his bravery and willingness to put himself in harm's way to save his fellow sailors.

The crew of the P-399 also included a mix of enlisted men and civilians, each with their own skills and contributions. Among them was Chief Petty Officer William "Bill" Hickey, a skilled mechanic who was responsible for keeping the boat in top condition. Hickey's expertise and dedication to his craft were invaluable in ensuring the boat's reliability and performance.

The P-399 and her crew faced numerous challenges and dangers throughout their missions. They navigated treacherous waters, encountered enemy patrols, and faced the constant threat of being detected and attacked. Despite these risks, the crew remained steadfast in their commitment to their mission and their fellow sailors.

One of the most memorable missions of the P-399 occurred in August 1944. The boat was dispatched to rescue a group of downed pilots who had been stranded on a remote island in the South Pacific. The mission was perilous, as the island was heavily fortified and guarded by Japanese forces.

The crew of the P-399 approached the island cautiously, using their stealth and skill to avoid detection. They managed to land on the beach and begin their search for the downed pilots. After a fierce gun battle with enemy forces, the crew was able to rescue all of the pilots and bring them back to their ship.

Another significant mission of the P-399 was a covert operation to supply and support American troops on a nearby island. The crew was tasked with delivering supplies and equipment to the troops and providing cover for their withdrawal. The mission was successful, and the crew was able to evade enemy patrols and deliver the supplies to the troops.

The P-399 and her crew also played a supporting role in the American invasion of the Philippines. The boat was dispatched to transport troops and supplies to the islands and provide support for the ground forces. The crew's bravery and skill in navigating the treacherous waters were instrumental in the success of the invasion.

Despite the dangers and challenges they faced, the crew of the P-399 remained committed to their mission and their fellow sailors. They displayed a remarkable sense of camaraderie and teamwork, and their bravery and selflessness were an inspiration to those they served with.

The P-399 and her crew were honored for their service and bravery. They received numerous awards and commendations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the Navy Cross. Their legacy continues to be celebrated today, and their story serves as a reminder of the incredible sacrifices made by ordinary men in extraordinary circumstances.

In conclusion, the story of the P-399 and her crew is a testament to the bravery and selflessness of ordinary young men in the face of adversity. Their valiant rescues and covert missions off Japanese-held islands were executed with great peril and little fanfare, but their contributions to the war effort were immeasurable. The crew of the P-399 displayed a remarkable sense of camaraderie and teamwork, and their bravery and selflessness were an inspiration to those they served with. Their legacy continues to be celebrated today, and their story serves as a reminder of the incredible sacrifices made by ordinary men in extraordinary circumstances.

Weight: 382g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493072354