PT 109 (1963) - full transcript

On August 7th 1942, elements

of the 1st Marine Division

landed on Guadalcanal.

The American Navy was assigned the job

of sea support in the Solomon islands.

There were few capital

ships available

and they were ill suited for

narrow channel warfare.

The PT boats were, they were

fast shallow draught withers

carrying maximum torpedo power.

Their assignment:

harass the enemy

and buy time for a Navy that

was still on the drawing boards.

This narrative concerns one

of those boats and its crew

commanded by lieutenant

(J.G.) John F. Kennedy, PT109

Rogers!

Yes sir!

Please notify these three officers

they'll be disemarking in an hour.

Yes sir!

End of the line Mr. Taubot.

It's loggin about an hour.

Thanks Rogers.

- Mr. Claybon, won't be long now.

- Much obliged.

Mr. Kennedy, war is ready.

Oh, thanks Rogers.

Mr. Kennedy, can I be frank

with you for a minute?

Sure, come on in Rogers.

I've always had good luck being

frank with lieutenants.

It's ensigns and admirals

you can't talk to.

Right after this trip, I'm

shipping on to the beach of Pearl.

So far so good, now hear this.

Right away get yourself transfered back

to the States. Zingo, you sent for me.

Zingo?

We'd make a great team.

Maybe running a nice wave barracks

or Jacksonville or some town where they

got a few sensible after hour joints.

Rogers, I just got here!

Oh, you don't want this Mr. Kennedy.

Believe me, I've been in this Navy.

The worst thing you could do is

let them trick you onto an ocean.

PT boat, nothing but a plywood coffin.

Well, I can't ask for a transfer.

Of course you can. I've got

a... little background on you.

The word, you've got the juice, you've

got pliers down there in Washington.

The juice?

Juice, muscle, glicerine!

Don't they teach you any

It's an elective.

Tell the old men to drop the

word into somebodies head.

Tell them to holla lady. You

can get out of here in a no time.

I'm sorry Rogers, I'm affraid I used

all that glicerine to get down here.

You mean you negotiated

your way out here?

That's right!

You put in a fix

to go the wrong way?

Right.

Mr. Kennedy, they are

fighting out here!

Wait, hold it, maybe it's not to late.

Tell them you went psycho, you... you

ate some poison meat, you woke up dizzy!

It's too late Rogers and I'm

surprised at you. Where is your spirit?

Spirit?

What's that?

A willingness to fight

for what you believe in!

Oh, that spirit Mr. Kennedy,

I got it, I believe in a transfer!

You know I wouldn't snow you.

Thinking like this,

you just not gonna make out.

General quarters! General quarters!

All men, man your battle stations.

Hey you! Hey you fella! Give

that sailor a hand with the ammo.

Mr. Kennedy!

Welcome to the South Pacific.

Best of luck Jack.

Same to you captain.

- See you around Jack.

- Right Pete!

Ladie!

Yes, sir!

I'm tellin' you for the last time.

I don't want this crane in the pier

area when we're loading ammunition!

Yes sir!

And I don't permit oil drumms in the area

when we're loading ammunition either.

Yes sir!

Afternoon sir.

Good afternoon. Even if I should permit it

you should know better than to permit it.

Yes sir!

What's your problem?

I was looking for the

Squadron Commander, sir!

Ladie! I saw your friend Nesbitt

ditch that cigarette butt!

You can tell him for me that he's

in trouble, he's in real trouble.

Yes sir!

Look at them.

Skippers, they call them selves.

They're not Naval officers, they're nothing

but a bunch of civilians dressed up in costume.

What...what was bothering you?

I was lookin' for the

Squadron Commander, sir.

Which Squadron?

PT Squadron 2.

That'll be Lieutenant Cluster.

Right straight down the main street

past this side of the post office.

Last tent.

Thank you, sir!

You're very welcome.

- Ladie!

- Yes, sir!

I'm putting you on report for

not putting Nesbitt on report.

Yes sir!

Fender head.

THROUGH THESE PORTALS PASS THE

BEST MTB MEN IN THE WORLD.

O.K. BARBER SHOP OF TULAGI.

CLOSED DURING AIR RAIDS.

DURING THE DAY LET'S REPOSE.

WE SWING ALL NITE WITH TOKIO ROSE.

RUM - RYE - SCOTCH - GIN

Lieutenant Cluster?

Lieutenant!

Here. What is it?

Lieutenant Kennedy,

reporting for duty, sir.

Kennedy?

Yes, sir.

Come in, sit down.

What time is it?

It's a...quarter of a 2, sir.

A quarter of 2?

Mister, you just woke me up

in the middle of the night.

Oh, I'm sorry sir,

I didn't know your schedule.

That's all right lieutenant.

I'm Al Cluster.

Jack Kennedy.

Nice to meet you.

Nice to meet you, Jack.

Help yourself to a cigarette.

Oh, thanks, no.

What can I do for you?

Well, I'm reporting for duty, sir.

What's your specialty?

PT skipper.

Oh, that's too bad.

I need an engeneering officer.

Wanna take a crack at it?

Well, aren't there any boats?

No, not right now, but

I can put you on staff.

Or, as I said engeneering

officer, I really need one.

Well, if it's all same to you sir,

I had counted on a boat.

You did, ha?

Well, there's a 109.

I suppose you can call that a boat.

Now that you mentioned it, but the

engeneering job... it wouldn't last

Oh, the 109 would be fine sir.

Hmm, well, will go and take a look

at her, cause it's all up to Ritchie,

he's our boat maintenance officer.

Sweet soul.

You'll meet him soon enough.

I think I already have.

Lieutenant, can you tell me more

about... hmm, Commander Ritchie?

Retread, he was on destroyers

in the First war, retired,

then called back again

couple of years ago.

Strictly regulation.

Does an honest job.

Only trouble he doesn't like this hooligan

Navy much better than he does the Japanese.

Now, there's our happy crew.

Hey you Bing Crosbies, paint, slap it

on, this ain't no movie stars bedroom.

Let's get this boat out of here.

There was a happy ship.

Is it always like this hot?

No, Mr. Kennedy, it gets hotter.

Any... any questions?

Yeah, is it one of ours?

Yap, officialy listed, 109.

A lot of wear and tear, isn't it?

Oh no, it just needs woman's touch.

Least.

Wanna take a look at the engines?

What kind of shape are they in?

Not quite as good as the rest of the boat.

Let's save the worst

for last, alright!?

Alright!

Well, it's gonna take a lot of work,

I don't quite know where to begin.

You ought a start laying the keel!

Still want her?

I'd like to give it a try.

Mr. Kennedy, you try this

you'll try anything.

This way!

Good afternoon sir.

Good afternoon lieutenant.

Commander Ritchie, this is lieutenant

Kennedy. He just checked in.

Oh, yes, yes...we met.

Welcome aboard lieutenant.

Thank you sir.

He thinks he'd like a crack at a 109.

Don't be a damn fool.

Show him the boat.

I've seen it sir.

You think that boat would

ever pass inspection?

Yes sir.

Another hot rod.

Alright, Mr. Kennedy,

you have one week to put it

in shape, that means one week,

that means in shape!

We'll have to get him

a good crew to help.

He'll get a crew alright, whether they're

any good or not, will be up to Mr. Kennedy.

Yes, sir.

Well, I'll see what can I round up.

You do that.

Oh, I'm sorry sir, I didn't

get a chance to clean up.

It's all right lieutenant.

You know, this entire generation's

gonna wind up dying flat on its belly.

Nothing personal, lieutenant.

Snyby!

This thing is full

of strikeovers again.

I could chain up a monkey in the

basement to get better results!

Try using your elbows!

Come in, come in, sit down.

Nah, it's not like the old Navy.

In old days you could eat off the deck.

Imagine, you can eat off the thing.

Yes sir, they told us out of Melwill.

Now days these kids, these hotentots

take those boats out, they

bounced them around like yo-yos.

Where?

Melwill, sir.

Mr. Kennedy, I don't

care where you've been,

I don't wanna know

anything about you,

I don't care whether you've got a mother, a

father, an orphan child... you understand?

You just run a toward ship

hang on to Navy regulations.

You do, you'll find me a friendly man.

Damn friendly man,

if you don't, you...

Snyby, where is that memo?

I'm gonna chain up that monkey.

Oh, that's all, Mr. Kennedy.

Yes sir.

A movie for the night...

Well, you can be replaced

by a wave, you know?

That's all Snyby.

Welcome to the South Pacific.

Mr. Kennedy.

Ensign Leonard Thom, your exec.

Oh, hi! Glad to meet you Leonard.

Welcome aboard.

How long did they give you

to put it in shape?

Well, we've used about half the

time just talking right here.

What about the crew?

So far I got a...

one land crab.

Come on Leonard,

I'll show you around.

Are they kiddin'?

Look at this thing.

Is that our mother ship?

Holly Toledo!

Shouldn't we store our gear aboard?

Better wait for an officer to report to.

Who do we drew?

- I don't know.

- I gotta run down upon to the yeoman.

The exec, is ensign named Leonard Thom.

Served some sea duty.

Use to ba a taccle on the

Ohio State football team.

That rules out mutiny.

How about the old man?

J.G., named Kennedy.

What the hell are you doin'?

- I'm killin' elephants...

- Will you stop it.

- Why?

- Makes me nervous.

Suffer!

Seems all he ever did was go

to school, he's had no sea duty.

Says here he wrote a book.

Sounds like he ought to be

in charge of the library.

What's the name of the book?

"Why England Slept".

Any pictures in it?

Picdures?

Pictures, idiot.

He's lookin' for pictures

and I'm an idiot.

I'm servin' under a guy like this,

we've rate the Purple Heart.

Well keep it in mind.

I don't think you've met our new

executive officer, ensign Thom.

I'm lieutenent Kennedy.

Drewitch, sir.

Motor machinist, 2nd.

Drewitch.

I'm Harris, sir.

Gunners mate, 2nd.

Harris.

We were just sayin' sir,

she's a very seaworthy craft.

Lot of potential anyway.

Any relation to Bucky?

No sir, they call me that

though sometimes.

Drawdy is my name sir,

motor machinist 2nd.

Alright, you may stow your

gear in the engeneering shaq,

we're staying there till

we get squared away.

Ah, Mr. Kennedy.

Yes, Drewitch?

There's only three of us

to clean up this whole boat!

There is five of us.

This is the whole crew?

Well, it's all we have for now.

Why?

We'll spend the rest of the war

just gettin' the boat in shape.

Then we better get started.

Ai ai, sir.

Alright, you're home men,

get your gear.

Six new hands, selected

with the upmost of care

to meet the requirements of the 109.

Only six available.

I'm Kirksey sir,

torpedoman 2nd.

Kirksey.

Maguire, sir.

Radioman 2nd.

Maguire.

Marney, sir,

motormech 2nd.

Marney.

Kowal, sir,

Gunner's mate 3rd.

Kowal.

Albert, sir,

seaman 2nd class.

Albert.

Mauer, sir, seaman 1st.

Mauer. Where is your gear Mauer?

I was on the "Niagara" sir, my...

my gear went down with the ship.

We'll see if we can

scare up some stuff for you.

Thank you.

Right.

Any of you men know how to cook?

Cook?

Yeah, yeah, I used to fix some

stuff for my kid brother, sir.

Good, you are our new cook.

What kind of stuff?

Peanut butter sandwiches, sir.

Nothing else?

Oh, sometimes I'd stick

some jelly on them, sir.

Well, ah... maybe you could

cook up a third specialty, ha?

Maybe.

Drewitch, you wanna show the

men where to stow their gear.

Sir.

Drawdy.

Show this men where

to stow their gear.

Come on.

What do you think Jack, think

they'll do a good job for us?

Sure!

We do one for them.

If we did get it ready in a week,

it wouldn't pass Ritchie's master.

I wouldn't worry about that, Andrew,

my boy. We're still one engine short.

Here you are. One box,

24 chocolate bars.

Thanks.

See what you can do by getting

terra for that sick torpedo.

We'll do.

Sam.

Thanks!

How you fellas going?

Well sir, we've got more cosmoline

in disolvings than on the gun.

Oh, here, hand it to me,

I'll get some clean stuff.

Thank you.

Alright! Alright!

Send down the bum that done this!

Sorry chief, I guess I am your man.

You know what you got

for a brain buddy?

A seed pearl. You know

how big a seed pearl is?

It's the damn smallest

pearl in the world!

Now I'm coming up there to

tell you the rest of it.

Let's go sailor!

Permission to come aboard, sir.

Permission granted.

Chief, I'm sorry about that.

It's not you sir, it's that cotton

picking enlisted man over there.

I'm gonna get that son of a gun

that dumped the oil on my head.

I'm affraid I'm your man chief.

I'm a chief petty officer in this Navy

and I'm not gonna take that sort of things.

I'm your man.

What sir?

I...I didn't realise anybody was on

the other side. I'm sorry about that.

Well sir, I think them seed pearls

is about the best I can do for you!

Say chief, with your permission,

I'd like to replace that shirt.

Permission granted.

Wanna try?

Why not?

Commander, do you really think

they can pass this inspection?

The moment of truth.

He'll say no.

Two to one?

Alright, two chocolate bars to one.

You're on!

Alright, all hands, man your

cleaning stations for inspection!

Request permission

to come aboard.

Permission granted.

Ready for inspection, Commander.

Now isn't that something that floats.

Sir?

Oh, how many primer coats?

Two.

Two primer coats.

Let's take a look at your engines.

Right.

With your permission, Commander.

Good afternoon, sir.

Engine room, ready for inspection.

Drawdy, motormech 2nd, standing by.

At ease Drawdy.

All three of them work?

Yes, sir.

Show him, Drawdy.

No, no, that won't be necessary,

Mr. Kennedy. I take a man's word.

Good afternoon, sir. Crew's

compartment ready for inspection.

Harris, Gunner's Mate 2nd,

standing by.

Good afternoon!

Somebody's kid sister?

Sorry, sir.

He's very sorry, sir.

Oh, no, no. Don't apologize... the most

seaworthy thing I've seen on this boat.

Good afternoon, sir.

Galley ready for inspection.

Mauer, seaman 1st,

standing by, sir.

Mauer.

Galley, clean, well ordered.

Is there any hot food?

Yes, sir.

Good.

Hot food?

Peanut butter on toast!

Commander!

Yes, lieutenant.

I just wondered how you felt

about the inspection, sir?

How am I suppose to feel?

Well, the men worked hard to

get the boat in shape, sir,

I thought the word of

encouragement would be in order.

I don't hand out pats on the back

for a job I expect a man to do

in the normal performance

of his duty.

I thought that was clear.

My men aren't looking for

pats on the back, Commander,

they are just lookin' for a

little credit for a job well done.

I'm not a book keeper Mr. Kennedy,

I don't dabble in debits or credits.

I'm a Naval officer and I run a torp

ship, I expect you do the same.

Your boat is ready for test run.

Carry on. That's all lieutenent.

Wanna thank you men for

doing a good job.

Damn good job!

Engines check out, okay here, Drawdy.

Thank you, sir!

Everything all right with you, Len?

No complaints.

She runs like the Queen Mary.

Okay, prepare for shakedown drill.

General quarters.

Alright, general quarters! Man your

battle stations! - General quarters!

Come on!

Come on!

Come on!

Come on!

Number one, .50 mag,

manned and ready, sir!

Very well!

Go!

Aft .50, manned and ready, sir!

Right! Very well!

Twenty millimeter,

manned and ready, sir!

Very well!

What's your time?

Minute, 10 seconds.

They're 10 seconds

faster we were last time!

Secure general quarters.

Secure general quarters.

Well, what do you think?

Yeah, let's take a

practice running that.

Full speed ahead.

Sylicillars good.

We're about 1500 out.

We'll close to a thousand.

Hey, watch it!

Stand by to fire.

Thousand.

All right!

Fire one.

Fire two.

Right on it.

What's their hurry?

I don't know.

Let's find out.

Alright, make her fast, Harris.

Mr. Kennedy.

Yes, sir.

Today they teach you to manouver

like that at Melwill or...

is that something

you picked up at Cape Cod?

Lieutenat, we like these boats

pretty much just the way they are.

So don't you take it

upon yourself to

change the design of them

by playing billiards

with those other boats out there.

Yes, sir.

Man sure rides your back.

Too bad he doesn't directs some of

that tension towards the enemy.

War would be over sooner.

Well, I guess, I did

come in a little fast.

Drawdy.

Those engines still check out okay?

Yes sir, but there is one thing.

What's that?

Those engines are pretty tired, reverse

them at high speed, they could stall.

You'd wind up on the beach.

Alright, thanks Drawdy.

I'll keep it in mind.

Yes, sir.

How are you, Jack?

How did it go?

Fine, real fine.

Your boat looks good, Jack.

Well ,I got a good crew.

Oh, don't be modest, we got a

briefing session in 15 minutes.

Fifteen minutes? That hardly

gives me time to refuel.

You won't finish refueling

'til after dark.

It's only two o'clock.

You're last in line.

First come, first served.

Oh, yes.

You sure you don't want

that engeneering job?

Yes, I'm sure.

I'm sure.

Hi John.

Jack.

Oh, John. You get those

chocolate bars I asked for?

Yeah, full box of 24. I'll

send them down the boat, okay?

Yeah, thanks.

Hey Jack!

Oh yeah.

- Leonard?

That's three dollars you owe me.

With that sweet of the yours Jack, I'm

affraid you'll never make ends meet.

Well, I guess we are all here.

This briefing is mainly

for the new skippers.

I'm sure you know them by now

Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Libnow,

Mr. Edwards, Mr. Fallow.

Thank you!

To begin with I don't know how long

we'll be operating out of here.

Task Force 31 has made

landings on Rendova.

Here. As soon as the island's

secured, we'll move up.

Until that time, the new skippers

will conduct test runs only.

Unless, of course one of the

coastwatchers turns up something.

For the benefit of the new officers,

that's our local spy setup.

There are Australian volunteers

mainly and they do a great job.

They are located in a

lot of these islands

reporting to us on Japanese

troop movements, shipping,

anything that'll do us any good.

Yeoman!

Pass out those orders.

Read them carefully gentlemen,

then I'll answer your questions.

Welcome to the South Pacific, Rogers.

I didn't know you're in

any of this sort of thing.

Oh, believe me, Mr. Kennedy, I

had it all set up. Locked in.

Recruiting duty in Columbus, Ohio, with

sea pay. Somebody blew the whistle.

I tell you, it must been Roosevelt

or somebody way up. Really!

I had it all locked in.

You know, one of these days,

he's gonna talk himself right

into the Japanese Imperial staff.

Prairie Dog, Prairie Dog, this

is GSE, I have your message

and you're related to Tulagi.

GSE out!

Hello KEN. KEN this is GSE. From Prairie

Dog I have a relay of message to Tulagi.

Priority urgent, message follows:

Prairie Dog . Urgent request.

At least two.

I repeat, two PT's. Cover force,

withdrawal his force by two LCVP's

at Baker 91, I repeat, Baker 91.

This is KEN. This is KEN.

Baker 91 will comply. Over.

Thank you KEN, GSE out.

Emergency rescue, sir.

What can we put in the water?

I can give you a note in the bottle.

I got five boats, two on dry dock,

two for night patrol and the 109.

Thank you, sir!

Oh why, what happened?

Somebody hit the fan? Cluster!

Rescue mission.

Can you get underway?

For a few feet. We've only got enough

gas for a test run. Why, what's up?

It'll have to do.

Marine paratroop battalion

hitch was

filter cover for a real

thing at Buganville.

To make it look big, they were

ordered to split into patrols

and raise scatter hell.

Alright Lenny, wind them up.

Alright.

One of those patrols is trapped

in the North end of the island.

We'll have to get them of

the beach. Here is your position.

What do you want me to do?

Beach it?

No, we have two LCVP's for that. Your

job is to rendezvous and provide cover.

I suppose you know, with that

little of gas we'll never get back.

I'll send you a tow.

That's all I can promise.

That's your best offer,

I'll take it.

- Good luck, Jack!

- Thanks!

Alright! Stand by, hand line.

What are you reading now, Lenny?

About 1800.

You got how many forts, skipper.

We're down to 300 gallons.

Yeah.

Thanks, Drewitch.

VP1. VP1. This is PT109.

Requests your instructions, over.

We're pinned down on the beach!

Need your gun, so we can run for it!

Give me your cover fire, while

you are load and clear, over.

Alright Lenny, I'll take over.

All stations, stand by.

We're moving in.

Commence firing.

Commence firing.

Alright, stand by, Drewitch.

We are isling down.

That's some on the port side!

Right!

That's some on the port side!

That's some on the port side!

Give them a hand with

that cargo net there!

Lean over.

Alright, let's go!

Skipper! Our fuel gages

are bouncing on zero.

Get those men out of the water!

Get that water man aboard.

Get him down below!

All right. Get him around

the other side! Come on!

Water man, help me!

Star, get on that gun!

Mack, over here!

Get those nets up!

Let's get out of here!

We don't stand a chance a hell to

get back to Tulagi unless you find

a gas station out here someplace.

We've had it skipper.

You better read the scales.

At least we are out of range, ha?

Yeah, but the tide is coming in.

Come in PT. Any PT.

This is Hangnail, come in please.

Come in PT. Any PT.

Come in please.

Any PT. Come in. This is Hangnail.

Come in please, come in.

PT, this is Geronimo.

What's your pleasure?

Geronimo, we're dry up the beach.

Can you give us a tow?

That's what we're here for.

Well ,make it fast.

Another two minutes,

those zeroes will be

climbing down our backs.

Where the hell is he?

Hey, Jack!

Up from port bow.

Alright, Lenny, give them

a hand with the bowline.

Right.

Okay, haul away.

Lenny.

Yeah.

Keep the crew in

general quarters,

and let Tulagi know

what's going on.

Okay.

How you doin'?

Fine, all I need are couple of

aspirines and a band-aid.

How you doin' Drawdy?

Not to good, sir.

Drewitch.

We're gonna be replaced Mr. Kennedy?

Yeah.

Don't do that to us.

I mean, just sittin' in the hospital

with them bombs comin' down...

Wanna trade places?

That's a good idea,

let him sit in a hospital.

No chance, ha?

I'm affraid not Drewitch.

We'll come and visit you.

I'll bring you over a snack

every now and then.

Don't do us any favours.

Help you guys?

Yeah, we're replacements.

Is the XO aboard?

Be back in couple of minutes.

Come on aboard.

I'm Maguire.

Starkey, Johnston, Zinser.

Hi, I'm McMahon.

Who we replacing?

Couple of guys in Arlington.

A little trouble at Schwartzsell,

nothing serious.

It's just the cook fishin'.

With the hand grenade?

In a war, you don't have time to

sit around like Huckleberry Finn.

Come on, I'll take you down below.

Well, today ain't gonna rain no more,

no more. It ain't gonna rain no more...

How in the world does Harris know

it ain't gonna rain no more?

Wanna hear some news?

The war is over.

No, that happens on Tuesday, or

next week on Tuesday. We're going to

Rendova and Ritchie stays here.

You sure?

I just got the word

from the yeoman upfront.

The way that Japanese flowers

cover that Rendova frozen

you'd think that whole

war was taking place there.

Kirksey my boy, you got

nothing to worry about.

All we get is a Japs, they got Ritchie.

We're gettin' a better deal, believe me.

Is captain...?

Yes, sir.

Come in.

Captain.

Go ahead Commander.

Some of these yeoman can really foul

things up. These orders are, all wrong.

The orders are correct.

You're staying behind.

Look captain, in three weeks,

this'll all be backwash.

You're doing a job here.

Oh, yeah...yeah, That's what

they told me in the last war.

I was in destroyers, you know,

greyhounds of the fleet...

sure, tied up to a pier in Bayonne,

New Jersey for the duration.

I know, I read your service record.

Oh, than you also know, I've been

passed over twice already.

You're leaving behind

a... could have began.

Look Commander, this

is a different war.

Different breed of fighting men,

like these PT boys.

The trouble is, you've never made

an effort to understand them,

I know they don't follow Navy regs.

Why should they? Fighting destroyers

from a piece of plywood.

Yes, yes, I suppose that's

what's eating me. Them in combat!

I've been in this Navy 25 years, I've

never been close enough to the enemy

to shake a fist at him!

Captain, I'm no hero, for all

I know, I may even be a coward.

If I am, I think I could

live with it...but

at least I'd like a

chance to find out.

Booish Pappy?

Wish sombody invent

a middle age war.

You know, I don't get it.

All she asked of you, how'd

you get trapped into this thing?

I have a stepson. He joined up.

Where does that leave me?

Well, I see your point,

but... it's coming with fog.

Can't very well climb up on my son's

knee and ask him about the war.

It wouldn't be dignified.

Skipper, topside!

Snyby.

Yes, sir.

What's the serial number of that Jeep?

I don't know sir.

Find out, write it down.

I want the same Jeep.

Yes, sir.

Rogers.

Yes, sir.

About that mosquito netting,

I want it to arrive intact.

So pack it very carefully.

I'll try sir.

Don't try it. Do it! Because if I get

a bite, somebody's gonna get stung.

Request permission to come aboard.

Permission granted.

Thank you. I'm riding

with you to Rendova.

Oh, are you in charge of the boat, sir?

Naturally.

Welcome aboard, sir.

Thank you!

Is this the way to... Columbus, Ohio?

I can't figure it out Mr. Kennedy,

I wind up in Tulagi,

so I make the best of it by trying

to get to the maintenance officer.

Scuttled, but hazard, he stays behind.

Maybe you're not using

the right kind of juice.

Exactly, maybe I should of

gone to Harvard.

Hahvard.

Yes, sir.

Wind them up!

Stand by to cast off!

Alright, cast off your bowline!

Snyby!

Let's get the hell out of here.

Zero at 5 o'clock, sir!

General quarters,

man your battle stations!

General quarters,

man your battle stations!

Request permission to

stand by to 20 millimeter.

Permission granted.

Thank you.

Engine room.

Stand by! General quarters.

-Two o'clock, sir! -Aft .50, manned and

ready, sir! -2 o'clock, sir! -Very well!

Request permission to

take over your gun.

Come on son, come on,

let me have a crack at him.

Go ahead sir!

Thanks.

You got him, sir!

Yeah.

Good shootin' Commander.

Ah, beginers luck.

Thanks son.

Thanks very much.

Yes, sir!

That was nice shootin' Commander,

let that plane just right.

Oh, thanks Marney.

Oh, I don't know, he just kind of... you

know, slit right into my line of fire.

You must have a lot of gunnery

during the First war, right, sir?

Oh, nah, we can let it go...that!

Yes, sir!

Skipper!

Tryin' to beat us in.

There goes our sack time.

Not again.

Stand by your bowline.

Remember what Drawdy said

about those engines, skipper.

Skipper! Skipper!

Can't reverse!

Clear the decks!

Jack, there is a boat coming out!

I see it, I see it.

Get a line over to those

men in the water!

Get your spring lines over!

Marney, get the forward spring line!

Harris, get the aft spring line!

Starkey, fend her!

Ah, that tears it.

Harris, throw up the spring line!

Grab a line chief.

Gang way.

Alright, throw a jiggen fly, get

those men out of the water!

Mauer, give them a hand.

Call in your bowline!

Mr. Kennedy.

Yes, sir!

Did you arrange this landing

for my benefit

or do you always

entering the port like this?

No sir, I tried to reverse my engines,

they're too fast to speed.

I'll put it on my report.

Just make sure it jabs with

my report Mr. Kennedy!

Yes, sir!

Free, Jack, take her home.

Well, I don't imagine I'm very

popular with the seabee's right now.

Hello Jack.

- How are you?

Hey!

When did you come in?

Couple a days ago. Lenny,

welcome to your new home.

Thank you, sir!

That was a very impressive landing.

It didn't impress Ritchie.

He's a... a very sentimental man,

where's his boats are concerned.

Well, it's a job.

I can understand that.

I'm glad you do.

You both are wanted up at the

operations right away. Come on.

What's up?

Briefing, something big,

I think.

You'll be assigned to Branninghan's

group for the time being.

Squadron Commander?

Yeah, and a damn good one.

Hey, how come they call this

place, Todd city?

Leon Todd Jr., first PT man

killed at Rendova.

This way Jack.

This is it!

Jack, I'm leaving on a special

assignment for a few days,

I'll see you when I get back, ha?

Well, good luck, sir.

- You too.

And don't worry about

wrecking that shed.

You're not the first one.

We have message from CTF31.

We gotta summarize.

The strong chance the Express

may run tonight.

That means the group of destroyers,

plus heavy barge traffic.

Their mission is to land troops

and supplies at Vella.

My instructions are to

use every available PT.

Four of our boats have radar.

The form of division are on

each of those four boats.

Cookman, your group will patrol

south Ferguson Passage.

Scott, your area is east

of Makuti island.

Burnssen, your group will patrol

opposite Guattari village.

My group will be farthest up the strait,

opposite the village of Vanga Vanga.

This should be enough to stop any

move to Villa through Blackett strait.

We're on condition Red, sir.

Boat captains, man your boats.

Aah! Watch the kidneys,

they only issue two.

Sorry, fella, I didn't see you.

Jack!

Hey, Barney, where did you come from?

Guadalcanal, I got my

boat shot off under me.

What are you doing here?

Fighting the enemy.

I got to get to my boat,

I'll see you later.

Yeah, okay, Jack, Oh, wait,

listen. Listen, Jack!

Stand by, engine room!

Where the hell is the skipper?

He's on his way.

Stand by that dock, right Mac!

Get ready to cast off!

Your engines all right down there?

What happened down there?

Harris, two o'clock!

Hey skipper, the water jackets are

punctured, you can't run the engines.

Mauer, Maguire, forget those lines,

the engines are dead.

Harris, 9 o'clock.

Our position on Vanga Vanga

should be a very busy one.

If their destroyers try to cross

Blackett strait,

be sure your fisher ready to fire.

If they try to go north

around Kolembangara,

we have Burke's destroyers

and Kelly's PT's.

Lieutenant Branninghan.

What is it, Mr. Ross?

I'm without an assignment, if anybody

could use an extra hand, I'm available.

Well?

I'm putting on, a 37 mm, you

can have a go work with them.

I'll take it.

Where did you get a 37 mm, lieutenent?

I find it laying around Tulagi,

I figured it'll give us a little

added fire power.

Alright, Ross, you're on the 109.

That's it, monitor regular channels,

maintaine radio silence,

good luck, get going.

Didn't you had enough action

for one day, Barney?

Tend to stay safe on that island,

but bombs keep falling on it.

I'd rather had a boat under me.

You can operate a 37 mm?

Well, I'm pretty quick to learn.

Well, now we got a little class

on this two by four.

What about the mounting, sir?

Lash it to the planks for now,

we'll bolt it on later.

Yes, skipper!

Will you tell me what we're

doing with an anti-tank gun

on the PT boat.

Skipper would mount a tank if

he could find one.

All safe?

Take over Lenny.

I'm not too crazy about having

him around.

It's bad luck having a

stranger aboard.

Don't be silly, that's for a ships

like Moby Dick, not this one.

You'll have to show me how a 37 works.

I have a small confession Barney,

we'll learn together.

Hey, Mac.

Yeah, Andy.

Will you take care of my things?

What things?

What are you talking about?

My things, whatever belongs to me.

Look, when we get back,

you better sack in for a while.

I'm not coming back.

Bestow it!

Maguire, I'm gonna get killed!

Listen, last two boats I was on,

there was always a guy who thought

is was gonna get his.

They knew too?

They knew nothing.

No one died in on those boats.

Hey, skipper.

Spare a minute?

Sure, what is it?

I think you better talk to Kirksey,

he's pretty they'll gonna

mail him home.

Alright.

Hi, Kirksey.

Mr. Kennedy.

Jarvie?

No sir, thank you, sir!

Maybe I do need a cup, lieutenent.

I don't know what's the matter

with me Mr. Kennedy?

I got this awful feeling I'm

not coming back.

Andy, I don't think there is a

man on this boat

who hasn't had that thought one

time or the other.

You don't understand, Mr. Kennedy.

I don't think it, I know it.

Did you ever have a feeling, ahead

of time, something's gonna happen'

right before dozer?

Yes.

It's like somebody put a cold hand

on my heart, I got chill.

I can't shake it off.

It could happen' Andy, you could die.

That's war,...

and ever I think about that, I try

to remember the odds are on our side.

Yes, sir. But the japs aren't.

You tellin' me I shouldn't worry, sir?

No, you'd be a fool if you did.

Than what can a man do, Mr. Kennedy?

Except pray.

You can do your job.

Like all of us.

See anything?

No, but the PT's should be on

their station now.

They're gonna have a rough time

finding anything out there tonight.

We're on station,

Vanga Vanga on a starboard beam.

Reduce speed to six knots.

Muffle all engines.

Inform the other boats by

blinker light.

Six knots.

Muffle.

Muffle down.

Message from Oak 11, sir!

Reduce speed to six knots.

Muffle all engine.

Thanks Mac.

Lenny.

Engine room, muffle your engines.

Can't see a thing tonight.

I hear we get radar next month.

Yap.

Sure is a lot of

water out there.

That's just the top of it.

You spot the 159, Mauer?

No sir, not now.

She was off the port beam

about 10 minutes ago.

Radar contact.

Bearing 095.

Range 3500.

Must be barges close to the beach.

I just recieved orders from Oak Zero,

patrol south to a Wana Wana.

I don't know exactly where that is.

Lenny, check the chart.

Ship at two o'clock!

Somebody, somebody!

Help!

- Anybody below?

I don't know, sir!

Give Mauer a hand,

look for survivors.

Yes, sir!

Mauer.

Haul away!

Pappy, Pappy!

Oh, my God!

Oh, God!

Hey somebody!

Pappy is all burned!

Somebody!

Maguire!

Johnston!

Marney!

Over here!

Johnston!

- Here!

- I'll get him! - Where?

Help me! It's Johnston!

I'm over here!

Help!

Can't feel my feet.

I got him, Buck.

Can you make it?

Johnston!

Can't feel my legs.

Come on Buck, we're almost there.

My leg go away.

Come on!

I'm going back for Bucky.

Mac, give me a hand!

Over here.

Take it easy.

How you doin' Bucky?

Leave me alone!

Come on!

Leave me alone!

Come on, Buck, it isn't far.

Come on!

Bad arm.

Easy.

- Mauer!

For a guy from Boston, you're putting

up, hell of an exibit. Now, come on!

I don't need anybody... help.

Kick!

Kick!

Kick!

I can't...

Come on, kick!

Watch it, skipper!

Mac!

Come on, Buck!

We're here.

Okay, sir!

Watch his leg.

Everybody aboard?

Everybody but Marney and Kirksey.

Mac, take a look at the starboard side.

Yes, sir!

It's my legs, sir, they don't work.

Marney!

Kirksey!

Marney!

Marney!

Marney!

Kirksey!

Kirksey!

Marney!

Marney!

Kirksey!

Kirksey!

Marney!

Marney!

Marney!

Kirksey!

Marney!

Kirksey!

What happened to the 109?

There's been no radio contact since I

ordered them to patrol at Wana Wana.

Maybe operations know something.

Jim. Send this message to

CO pack, Ron Baker on Guadal.

Belived PT 109, lost

night action, 2, August.

Two miles, Northwest, Meressul.

Repeat, Meressul.

Crew of 13.

Request air search earliest possible.

Let captain Saunders release that.

Oh, Evans reported a barge of

fire on oil slick

two miles Southwest of Meressul.

Well, that could be the PT109, maybe

the crew's in the water or the beach.

Let's hope so.

It's a hell of a time to

hitchhike Mr. Ross.

How's he doin' Lenny?

Third degree burns on both

his arms.

Shoulders and his face aren't

much better.

Zinser, how's Johnston?

He's better, sir,

he stopped throwing up.

If they come out here, what are

we gonna do? Fight or surrender?

What are you gonna use to

fight with?

We got 37mm, this tommygun and

some 45's.

That ammo's been wet, suppose

the guns don't fire.

Alright, than we'll throw bullets at

them, but I'm not gonna surrender.

That's all right if they're a handfull,

but what if they send an army out here?

What's the difference who

they send down?

Let's surrender.

We're not good to anybody dead!

I'm not gonna surrender!

Oh, that's okay for you guys,

I got a wife and three kids.

Well, what makes you think you

gonna see them if you surrender?

Knock it off!

Lenny, give me that map.

If this thing didn't go on,

we'll float right down to their laps.

Question is: which island?

You're not thinking swimming

over there, are you?

I'm open to suggestion Lenny.

You got any better ones?

Most of those islands are held

by the enemy.

You know Kolembangara is.

We know Guizo is.

Yeah, here's one.

Plum pudding.

About, three and a half miles.

I think we can make it.

Take us about four hours.

It's our best bet.

- If it isn't?

Sir, some of these men don't

swimm to well.

How far did you say

that island was?

Don't worry Bucky.

We'll make it.

You get 11 men in the water,

we'll be pretty spread out, sir.

We'll lash the planks together.

I don't think Pappy can make it.

I'll take care of Pappy,

you stay with the other men.

Come on, let's go.

Maguire, take that bowliner,

lash'em to the plank.

Yes, sir!

You think we're gonna make it,

don't you sir?

Take bets on it Bucky, either

you're winner or don't pay off.

That's it Pappy, put your feet

on here! Atta boy!

Lift them up, up, Pappy.

Okay, everybody get their shoes

off and tie 'em to the plank.

Put 'em later on.

You got Pappy?

Just easy, Johnston.

Watch your feet.

You got 'em?

Bring him on down here.

Easy, easy on those burns.

You all right Pappy?

Four miles are long way.

It's only three inches on the

chart, Bucky.

Skipper!

There she rows.

PWD, PWD, this is GSE.

GSE, this is PWD.

Go ahead.

Last night's fire seems to be small

barge, it's afloat and still visible.

Japanese island patrols are

still active. Out!

Albert, why the hell did you do

that for?

They are heavy.

Who needs them.

You'll find out when that coral

gets to you.

Come on, Johnston.

Hang on there!

We'll have you on that beach

in no time.

How you doin', Pappy?

Okay, skipper.

Hurry up!

Jap barge.

Oh, my God!

Go further up the rush.

Barney.

You never introduced me to

your friends?

They'll be back.

Wonderful.

Our boat should be coming through

here tonight.

Well, not neccessarily, he can

just woke up to Guizo strait.

Well, then they have to go

out this way.

Well, if I can go out there with

a lantern, we can flag 'em down.

What, you went nuts. You'll have

to check water all night long.

There is a reef out there.

I can walk part of the way.

Well, you'll never come back, buddy.

Well, I can't send for room service!

How you doin' Pappy?

Fine, I just don't... look so good,

that's all.

You know, maybe some oil from those

coconuts might help those burns.

Yeah.

How about a signal fire, sir,

just in case of the rescue party?

Lit a fire, we'll be

rescued in ten minutes...

...by the Japanese.

They are all around us, Bucky.

It's kind a like a bunch of burglars

breaking into a police station,

...it tends to be awkward.

Some of the men are to hold down those

coconuts. Try the oil on these burns!

Oak leaf 1, this is Blue Jay.

We've spotted wreckage, mid channel.

No survivors.

Repeat, no survivors seen.

Out.

Lenny.

Keep lookouts posted all night,

both ends of the island.

Zinser, Mauer, take the first watch.

Good luck!

Ain't that the biggest damn

fool you ever saw?

Sir?

Well, hope our boats come through

Ferguson Passage tonight.

That's where he'll be.

Oak Leaf, this is Tiger Tail Leader,

over.

Tiger Tail Leader,

this is Oak Leaf, over.

I've completed Vella Lavella sweep.

I'm returning home!

Your order, return Ferguson Passage...

for channel is narrow,

visibility low!.

Request permission return

Blackett strait, over.

Permission granted, over.

Roger, Oak Leaf, over and out.

Let's go home,

through Blackett strait.

Making a record of how long

we're stuck here. Notch a day.

Sure you got enough plank?

All right, Starkey?

What's gonna happen' to us,

Mr. Thom?

We're just gonna sit out here and die?

Skipper will turn up something.

Skipper, he's been gone 10 hours!

Where do they think we are?

Down the ships store or AWOL?

We didn't get mislay, we're here!

I wish I co... I wish I could do

something to get their minds off this.

Well, maybe they might enjoy, snooker

or tea dance or something like that.

That's what we're really

set out for, are we Lenny?

Mr. Thom, Mr. Ross!

He's back!

Hey, Thom, give me a hand!

Move him off the beach.

Take it easy!

They didn't come.

All I saw was a Jap barge.

Barney, you go out tonight.

Jack, I'm with you, you know that,

so is everybody else.

If something doesn't happen'

pretty soon, we're gonna tap out.

What do you mean?

Well, a... there's a Japanese

held island right over there.

Yeah...?

Some of the men feel it's better

than nothing.

- It means giving up!

It means giving up, alive!

- Nobody's giving up!

Nobody wants to give up, Jack.

- Nobody's going to!

We're going to get out of here!

Alright, we'll wait and see.

- Get some rest!

You're going out!

Tonight!

Good morning, sir!

Good morning.

Well?

No sign of them, sir.

We patroled all night.

Where?

Blackett strait.

Is that the only place they could be?

You might as well face it,

Commander, the 109 is gone.

Just a minute, you! You think I worry

too much about those boats, don't you?

No, but that's what you're thinking.

So are lot of other people

around here.

Well, let me tell you

something Mister...

I worry about those boats, yes,

and for one reason.

Those boats have a deck on 'em,

and men stand on those decks.

That's why I won't give up the 109.

She had men on her deck.

I don't want the deck back, I want

the men that were standing on it.

That's the only thing that matters

in this whole big hairy world!

And don't you ever give me any

of your smart mouth again!

You wanna put a high gloss

on these please, porter?

Wake my friend when he gets

to Hyenas port.

Good luck, Mr. Ross.

Well, there is nothing I got

to be affraid off.

Right Mac?

Right, sir!

Right.

It looks is if they're checking

island by island.

Thanks Zinser.

If they check this island,

we'll have to take another swimm.

Either that, or we'll make a stand here.

It's in the dozen men we

kill 'em all, they send 500 more?

Pappy.

You put a little more that

stuff on you.

Skipper.

Doesn't do any good!

Skipper!

Skipper, he's here.

Watch it, Mac.

Get something.

I'm sorry, Jack.

I draw a blank.

How do you feel?

Okay, I reseted a while

on that... little island.

Alright, let's start lashing our gear

together, we're going to Olasana.

Look, skipper, I can't walk on anymore

reef, my feet are already cut to the bone.

I won't be able to make Olasana.

You're gonna have to make it.

Why move at all? At least we know

there are no Japs here.

We also know there is no food here.

Well, we'll get food one

this times, it'll be sukiyaki.

At least out there we'll be

close to our boats.

They should be coming

through tonight.

The odds are on our side.

Boy, you kill me.

You really do!

Here we are, beat and burn

and given up for dead,

living on green coconuts and no

water in the middle of 1500

Japanese soldiers and you decide

the odds are with us!

It's a flaw in my character.

Almost there, Pappy.

All right.

We'll rest here a while.

They almost got me iron

for food and water.

Lenny, you take Harris... Mauer,

to the north end.

I'll take the others to the south.

PWD, PWD, this is GSE.

This is PWD, go ahead GSE.

Further report on four deck of 109.

It is grounded on reef...

at south Gross island. I'll repeat that.

Four deck 109, grounded on reef...

at south Gross island.

Out.

PWD acknowledges.

Out.

Sir, how would you like

that coastwatchers job.

Just sitting on the cliff with

nothing to do but staring the space.

Snyby, some men fight a war

from the turret of the 16-inch gun.

Other guys sweat it out

at the office...or,

or on top the the hill on some

God forsaken island.

It doesn't mean their job is any easier.

Evans is all alone on that island.

If an enemy patrol spots him...

that's the way he's gonna die... alone!

Remember that.

Yes, sir!

Mr. Thom!

Yap?

There's a canoe beach down there.

Hey, I think I found the owners.

Take it easy.

Hold it,

hold it.

Put your guns down.

We're Americans.

They don't look too friendly.

As long as they have those rifles!

That's an open question.

Tell you one thing:

those are Japanese rifles.

Let's do something,

I don't trust them.

Don't trust them or those rifles.

Who are they, Lenny?

I don't know.

Mr. Kennedy, those are

Japanese rifles.

You speak English?

You know Rendova?

There must be some way to get

through to them.

Try 'em at latin, Jack.

You take a message to Rendova?

What are you gonna use?

I'll find something.

Why don't we jump them, sir?

We can get the rifles and a canoe.

Yeah... and deliver

the message ourselves.

No, wait!

What about this, Jack?

It's smooth and everything.

Open it up!

I'm a friend of... Johnny Carrey.

You know Johnny Carrey?

Rendova.

Johnny Carrey.

This could backfire, you know?

It could.

Falls in a wrong hands,

it's like taking out an add.

Time is running short on us, Barney.

There, how's that?

NATIVE KNOWS POS'IT... HE CAN PILOT...

11 ALIVE NEED SMALL BOAT... KENNEDY

Well, it might do it.

You take to Rendova.

Rendova.

You think they'll deliver it?

In my opinion,

I think they'll eat it.

Couple of guys like that

you send to Rendova,

they're level to show up in Seattle.

That's all right. Last I heard,

Seattle was on our side, too.

Jack!

Take a look at this.

That's not even the way to Seattle.

Any luck, skipper?

No, no luck Zinser.

Ain't no food, there ain't no

water on any of these islands.

I don't know about the brass,

but I made my last swimm.

If I'm gonna die,

I'll do it my way.

Maybe we should of stayed on the

four-deck. Somebody might of seen us.

Don't start tellin' us

what we should of done.

You think we're better of here?

I think somebody could of guess

we got hit and had to abandon ship.

We did abandon ship,

and abandoned us.

Why do you have argue

about every damn little detail?

We wound up in the water.

PWD this is GSE, calling.

PWD this is GSE, calling.

This is PWD,

go ahead GSE.

I anticipate moving the

station tomorrow...

I can't get a good view

of Ferguson Passage...

or the west side of Blackett strait.

New position for station will be DOG34.

I repeat, DOG34. Final advise A.M.! Over.

PWD acknowledges and out.

Thank you PWD, GSE out.

What good is it?

What good is it?

Take it easy.

What good is the damn thing?

Who we gonna wave it at, ha?

Nobody, that's who. Nobody.

We struck out, Mac.

Admit it!

Look, we still have something

work aforce: there's two natives.

Oh, they never got through.

How do you know they didn't?

Well, they didn't.

It's as simple as that.

You don't have to pull rank

on me Mr. Kennedy.

We're not getting out of here

and I know it!

Well, you don't believe it!

Neither does anybody else! Ask 'em!

Mac.

I don't know, sir!

Zinser.

It's getting, so I really

don't care, Mr. Kennedy.

Well, you're gonna start right now!

All of us are.

We're getting out of here,

one way or the other.

What about the natives?

If the natives don't do it,

we'll do it another way.

But we're getting out of here

if we have to get in the water

and drag this damned island

back with us!

Mr. Thom, Mr. Thom, there's a canoe

full of natives off the beach.

Mr. Kennedy.

Mr. Kennedy.

I am Kennedy.

Mr. Kennedy. I'm Benjamin Kevu.

I have a letter for you.

From an Australian coastwatcher

named Evans, he got the coconut.

In His Majesty's service,

senior officer, Olasana island.

Friday, 11 P.M.!

Just learned of your

presence on Olasana.

I strongly advise you return

here in this canoe,

by the time you arrive, I will

be on radio communication...

with authorities at Rendova,

where we can finalize plans to

collect balance of your party.

A. R. Evans.

I suggest we leave as soon as

possible. Enemy patrols erect.

Alright, keep the men posted

undercover till I get back.

If he just get pass those patrols.

what is it Kevu?

Japanese plane.

Please stay undercover.

Hello, I'm Reg Evans,

very glad you made it.

Jack Kennedy, glad to be here.

Set a rendezvous for the

PT at Partpyren island.

In the meantime, we'll send you

directly to Rendova.

They'll never get pass those reefs,

unless I take them through.

Yes, I totally agree.

Alright, you make the rendezvous

at Partpyren island at 0200 hours.

PT will approach North by Northwest.

Fire four identification shots.

Well, I only have three rounds.

Use this.

Thank you.

Like to give you a cup of tea,

but you don't have the time.

I am very grateful.

Glad to help Kennedy, good luck.

Barney.

Hey Lenny.

Barney.

Pappy, we're getting you home.

Hello skipper.

Hey skipper, you made it!

Hey bartender, don't give

my friend another drink,

you'll have to send him

home in a cast.

Hey old buddy. We really won this

poor game. We are on our way home.

Home?

That's right Jack, it's Navy custom.

You lose a boat...

you rate a State side leave.

That sounds great.

I'd like that.

You're going, aren't you?

Jack, you rated.

We all do.

I know.

Then why not take it if you

are entitled?

Nobody owns me anything, Barney.

The boats gone, two men, took me

a long time to get out here

I'd like to stick around a while.

Can you get me another one?

Come.

Well, Mr. Kennedy, could I talk

to you a minute?

Sure, come on in Albert.

Alone, sir.

Alright.

Oh, stay here Jack.

Sir!

Give me a hand.

Sure, Barney.

Take it easy.

Come in Albert, wanna cup of coffee?

No, thank you, sir.

Sit down.

- Thank you.

I just came in to say...

...well, I want to

apologize Mr. Kennedy.

For what?

Throwing that lantern around

and poppin' of the way I did.

There's nothing to apologize for.

Yes there is.

You are trying to get us out

of this mess and a...

I start shouting about

how... we won't be coming back.

Havin' a fit all over the place.

I owe you an awful lot, sir and

I just wanted to say I'm sorry.

Albert, if I already get in a jam like

this again, I hope I plunder a men

like you aboard.

Men who aren't afraid to say

what they believe,

even though the odds are against them.

So stay available.

Okay?

Thank you, sir!

Well?

Ask me over to admiral.

Made me skipper of 61.

Great. Watch out for Japanese destroyers.

Hey, skipper!

Bucky.

What boat you draw?

59.

Another old one, ha?

Well, well, what's old Bucky

gonna do with three weeks leave?

Skipper.

Hi, skipper.

We're thinking of you.

Ship wrecked the top of the mog.

Wage one for me.

Thank you, sir.

Johnston.

Thank you, sir.

Bucky.

See you again, Mr. Kennedy.

Take me to the Golden Gate, James.

Don't tell me.

It's true. You're just

lucky, Mr. Kennedy.

Well, if you men hadn't had enough,

you might as well stow your gear.

Drewitch, Drawdy, you wanna help him

fire up the engines and see what we got?

Yes, sir.

Maguire, sir.

Radioman, 2nd.

Mauer, sir.

Seaman, First.

What happened to your leaves?

We decided to save 'em till Christmas.

Besides skipper, you're a...

you're a little on the thin side.

You need my cook.

That's right, you never did

develop that third specialty.

Well, I got one now, sir!

Spam a la Mauer!

Snyby!

Yes, sir!

Fix that barge before

somebody breaks their neck!

Stand by to cast off all lines.

Jockeys, just a bunch of jockeys!