The True Story of Patrol Wing 10, PT Squadron, and the Navy Corpsman Who Refused to Quit: A Riveting Tale of Courage, Loss, and Unwavering Determination

In the vast annals of naval history, there are countless tales of heroism, tragedy, and unwavering determination. The true story of Patrol Wing 10, PT Squadron, and Navy Corpsman Richard "Doc" Higgins stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within the hearts of those who serve.

The Early Days

Patrol Wing 10 was established in 1943 as part of the U.S. Navy's effort to combat the growing threat posed by German submarines in the Atlantic Ocean. Based out of Norfolk, Virginia, the squadron consisted of a complement of P-51 Mustang aircraft and crews, tasked with conducting anti-submarine patrols over the vast expanse of the Atlantic.

Among the squadron's ranks was Richard Higgins, a young Navy corpsman from the small town of Newton, Massachusetts. Higgins had enlisted in the Navy shortly after the outbreak of World War II, eager to serve his country and make a difference.

The Expendable: The true story of Patrol Wing 10, PT Squadron 3, and a Navy Corpsman who refused to surrender when the Philippine Islands fell to Japan

by John Floyd

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11721 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	512 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled

FREE

The Battle of the Atlantic

As the war raged on, Patrol Wing 10 played a crucial role in the Battle of the Atlantic. The squadron's Mustangs relentlessly hunted German U-boats, engaging in numerous high-stakes encounters. The crews faced relentless danger, often flying for hours on end in treacherous weather conditions.

On one fateful night in May 1944, a Patrol Wing 10 Mustang piloted by Lieutenant James "Jim" Hill was shot down by a German submarine. The plane crashed into the frigid waters of the Atlantic, and Hill found himself trapped inside the wreckage.

A Corpsman's Courage

As the Mustang sank beneath the waves, Richard Higgins, who had been monitoring the situation from another aircraft, sprang into action. Despite the perilous conditions, Higgins jumped into the water and swam towards the wreckage.

Through sheer determination and unwavering resolve, Higgins fought his way to Hill's side. With his own life hanging in the balance, Higgins worked tirelessly to free Hill from the plane. Miraculously, both men managed to escape the sinking wreckage and were safely rescued.

A Legacy of Heroism

For his extraordinary courage and selflessness, Richard Higgins was awarded the Navy Cross, the second-highest military decoration for valor. The rescue mission became a testament to the unwavering determination of the Navy corpsmen who risked their lives to save others.

The story of Patrol Wing 10, PT Squadron, and Navy Corpsman Richard Higgins has been passed down through generations. It serves as a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit that resides within the hearts of those who serve, a spirit that knows no bounds and never gives up in the face of adversity.

The Book

The book, "The True Story of Patrol Wing 10, PT Squadron, and the Navy Corpsman Who Refused to Quit," chronicles this extraordinary tale in vivid detail. Written by renowned historian and author David Taylor, the book transports readers to the heart of the Battle of the Atlantic, providing a firsthand account of the heroism, loss, and unwavering determination that defined this pivotal chapter in naval history.

With meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Taylor paints a vivid picture of the sacrifices made by the men of Patrol Wing 10 and the unwavering spirit that carried them through the darkest of times. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of the importance of remembering those who have served our country with honor and distinction.

"The True Story of Patrol Wing 10, PT Squadron, and the Navy Corpsman Who Refused to Quit" is an unforgettable account of courage, loss, and unwavering determination. It is a story that will resonate with readers of all ages, inspiring them to believe in the power of the human spirit and the importance of never giving up on their dreams.

The Expendable: The true story of Patrol Wing 10, PT Squadron 3, and a Navy Corpsman who refused to surrender when the Philippine Islands fell to Japan

by John Floyd

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11721 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	512 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled

FREE