072 A Big Mac Welcome to Corregidor

Ranger Taton to the Rescue
Ranger Taton to the Rescue

Ranger Taton to the Rescue. As we neared shore a guy in military uniform and big black boots appeared. Captain Eddy brought out a paper and asked us to sign. “For Coast Guard,” he said, as though he may not have been planning on having to present it. He nosed the Cat right into the cement dock and the ominous looking guy, Ranger Taton began lending a hand. It was a good thing he came to our rescue. Captain Eddy and I struggled down in the boat and the First Mate couldn’t hold the loaded bikes until Ranger Taton grabbed the handlebar and hoisted. By the time we got both bikes ashore we were all covered with sweat.

 

General MacArthur's Welcome

General MacArthur's Welcome

Ranger Totan told us that the very dock where McArthur shouted, “I shall return,” as he jumped aboard his rescue ship and headed for Australia, was just around the corner. We pedaled and sure enough, there he stood, bigger than life, in fact 10 times bigger than life. The idea of his heroic retreat faded when we began to realize that he left most of his men behind. (There is a copy of the official communique from FDR ordering him to leave and putting Lt. Gen. WAinWright in command in the museum.) A woman working at the hotel later asked, “Did you see the place where the General McArthur run away in the night?”

Comments (1)

BobMarch 18th, 2009 at 12:45 pm

Sure looks and sounds like your having a good time guys. Love ya Bob