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South From Corregidor
At the outbreak of the Second World War U.S.S. Quail was in the Philippines sweeping mines to provide access for American shipping to South Harbor, Corregidor.
Damaged by enemy bombs and guns during the Japanese invasion of the island John Morrill and his fellow men decided to make the decision to scuttle their ship rather than allow it to be captured.
This led them to begin one of the most daring escapes of the Second World War.
Lieutenant Commander John Morrill and sixteen fellow sailors took a thirty-six-foot diesel boat nearly two thousand miles through Japanese controlled waters.
They moved mostly at night, with a homemade sextant, some salvaged charts, with little fresh water and food, but even despite these difficulties they eventually made their way to Darwin, Australia.
“nonfiction account of his breathtaking escape in 1942 from the Japanese at Corregidor, the beleaguered U.S. fortress commanding Manila Bay in the Philippines.” The Washington Post
“The enthralling story of how a handful of Navy men escaped from falling Corregidor southward to Australia in a leaky 36-foot landing boat.” Foreign Affairs
“A matter of fact, modest and inherently dramatic account of an isolated incident in the pacific war” Kirkus Reviews
John Morrill was a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy. In June 1939 he became commanding officer of the minesweeper U.S.S. Quail. Pete Martin was a journalist and author. Their book South from Corregidor was first published in 1943. Pete Martin passed away in 1980 and John Morrill passed away in 1997.
Damaged by enemy bombs and guns during the Japanese invasion of the island John Morrill and his fellow men decided to make the decision to scuttle their ship rather than allow it to be captured.
This led them to begin one of the most daring escapes of the Second World War.
Lieutenant Commander John Morrill and sixteen fellow sailors took a thirty-six-foot diesel boat nearly two thousand miles through Japanese controlled waters.
They moved mostly at night, with a homemade sextant, some salvaged charts, with little fresh water and food, but even despite these difficulties they eventually made their way to Darwin, Australia.
“nonfiction account of his breathtaking escape in 1942 from the Japanese at Corregidor, the beleaguered U.S. fortress commanding Manila Bay in the Philippines.” The Washington Post
“The enthralling story of how a handful of Navy men escaped from falling Corregidor southward to Australia in a leaky 36-foot landing boat.” Foreign Affairs
“A matter of fact, modest and inherently dramatic account of an isolated incident in the pacific war” Kirkus Reviews
John Morrill was a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy. In June 1939 he became commanding officer of the minesweeper U.S.S. Quail. Pete Martin was a journalist and author. Their book South from Corregidor was first published in 1943. Pete Martin passed away in 1980 and John Morrill passed away in 1997.
173 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 1943
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 28, 2022
This digital copy was obviously optically scanned from paper. It was done pretty well, but wasn't edited afterward. You'll see words like "stem" when the original text is "stern". There are other similar mistakes that could have been corrected. Slightly annoying but not enough that you'd give up on it.
Also, there are some grammatical errors of the form, "Smith brought it to Jones and MYSELF."
So, in general, an interesting book that could have been edited better in the original and in the digital copy.
Also, there are some grammatical errors of the form, "Smith brought it to Jones and MYSELF."
So, in general, an interesting book that could have been edited better in the original and in the digital copy.
February 3, 2019
An excellent story of perseverance, cunning, steadfastness and a whole lot of luck!
Morrill does an excellent job in describing his and his shipmates ordeal of escape from Corregidor as the Japanese Navy and Army tightened their grip on the Philippines and Dutch East Indies.
I am always when I read these stories of the resourcefulness these men used in dangerous and trying conditions. The comradery is exceptional!
Morrill does an excellent job in describing his and his shipmates ordeal of escape from Corregidor as the Japanese Navy and Army tightened their grip on the Philippines and Dutch East Indies.
I am always when I read these stories of the resourcefulness these men used in dangerous and trying conditions. The comradery is exceptional!
May 28, 2026
This a wartime published book posited as a collaboration (think, ghostwriter/s) that has the film noir/detective novel style of that era. Really, really Alpha male tough talk, utterly cynical and condescending, no emotions, even fear couched in "we knew this kind of feeling and we didn't like it, but there it was and it made a man think real hard" kind of nonsense rhetoric. Still, it's a fascinating survival story of a small crew from a USN minesweeper escaping from the Philippines all the way to Australia in the early days of the Second World War. There's plenty to like here as well as many howlers and this would be a bit of a bust if it were not for the afterword where the publishing house thoughtfully added some material for a what happened to the men section including a statement from the, then, only surviving member of that boat crew as well as a letter from Ronald Reagan. It helps to update the story and put a human touch on a tough guy, pack of Camel unfiltereds and a bottle of Scotch machismo that is desperately needed.
What is left out is what must have been the extremely tough part of the voyage -- getting clear of the Philippine Archipelago across open ocean to reach the coast of New Guinea. This is obscured by flashbacks to Corregidor that really drag the narrative down and it makes you wonder what the situation really was aboard this little boat crammed with 18 men. But for wartime writing and propaganda -- think, we gotta beat these little Asian so and so's (I'm being nice here, you can imagine what I really mean the text is like) harsh reality was not the order of the day.
I give it four stars because underneath the bravado it had to be hell to endure this situation and see themselves clear and the officers had to be outstanding leaders of men to make this journey to survival possible. The subsequent fates of the men in the boat related in the additional material really bring the reality of it to the forefront.
What is left out is what must have been the extremely tough part of the voyage -- getting clear of the Philippine Archipelago across open ocean to reach the coast of New Guinea. This is obscured by flashbacks to Corregidor that really drag the narrative down and it makes you wonder what the situation really was aboard this little boat crammed with 18 men. But for wartime writing and propaganda -- think, we gotta beat these little Asian so and so's (I'm being nice here, you can imagine what I really mean the text is like) harsh reality was not the order of the day.
I give it four stars because underneath the bravado it had to be hell to endure this situation and see themselves clear and the officers had to be outstanding leaders of men to make this journey to survival possible. The subsequent fates of the men in the boat related in the additional material really bring the reality of it to the forefront.
January 6, 2019
Excellent story of courage and strength in a time of war
Well written story of a dark time In American history. Because of the defeat of the American forces and their subsequent confinement during the war, much of the details of these men's bravery and heroic defense of the Philippines has been lost to our historical memory. We need to remember these men's valiant efforts against incredible odds to preserve liberty and freedom.
Well written story of a dark time In American history. Because of the defeat of the American forces and their subsequent confinement during the war, much of the details of these men's bravery and heroic defense of the Philippines has been lost to our historical memory. We need to remember these men's valiant efforts against incredible odds to preserve liberty and freedom.
January 8, 2019
I've known a couple guys that also escaped from the japs. I It was hard to believe their stories, but the people who know them best tell of their awakening up from vivid nightmares, hollering and a ball of sweat. Heaven MUST have a quiet peaceful section designed especially for those to whom we owe so very much.
Idiots who have not an iota of the value freedom really means. Hopefully, they'll never have to learn, by that time it will be already too late.
Idiots who have not an iota of the value freedom really means. Hopefully, they'll never have to learn, by that time it will be already too late.
March 22, 2019
A narrative that reveals the character and leadership of a Navy LC and his disciplined and stalwart crewmen who defied the Japanese invaders and navigated with crude makeshift tools across the Pacific from Luzon to Australia with poor maps while dodging the enemy's patrols and warships. Makes you proud to be American.
August 22, 2019
Outstanding book..I actually read this book while on.vacation in the Philippines in my tablet. As a retired Bm1, I found the author did an excellent job. Thanks BM1
Outstanding..Read this book while on vacation in the Philippines for 3 months in Eastern Samar. I'm a retired BM1 who served 20 years
Outstanding..Read this book while on vacation in the Philippines for 3 months in Eastern Samar. I'm a retired BM1 who served 20 years
February 26, 2022
Thank you for your service and our freedom
This book was a bit slow in its opening chapters. Without a map, it was difficult to follow the journey. Then I just gave up and realized that the actual locations were irrelevant, the story was the thing. The epilogue was an excellent reminder of the scope of the Second World War and its costs. An editor followup on these men would have been interesting.
This book is an engaging and educational window into our past. It tells a story from 80 years ago and enables its reader to experience the horrors of Corregidor, Bataan and the opening months the of the war in the Pacific.
Thank you for making this work available to us.
This book was a bit slow in its opening chapters. Without a map, it was difficult to follow the journey. Then I just gave up and realized that the actual locations were irrelevant, the story was the thing. The epilogue was an excellent reminder of the scope of the Second World War and its costs. An editor followup on these men would have been interesting.
This book is an engaging and educational window into our past. It tells a story from 80 years ago and enables its reader to experience the horrors of Corregidor, Bataan and the opening months the of the war in the Pacific.
Thank you for making this work available to us.
November 25, 2018
This is my second “escape from the Philippines” story (The first was “The war diary of Damon “Rocky” Gause, highly recommended!) This story is a navy story of a doughty group who managed to take the initiative in extreme circumstances and escape to fight another day. Against overwhelming obstacles and amazing chance, they elude the rampaging forces of Japan as they over ran the Philippines at the start of WW2. Though not as romantic a the Gause story, this is an unvarnished telling of escape by sea through a still exotic seascape of islands and currents.
February 22, 2020
These sailormen would not surrender. They would escape the Philippines in a very small craft- for 18 crewmen. Their journey was full of tension and self denial. Their early task was to get out of grasp of the Japanese that invaded the islands.
They were helped along by the Philippine people that had such great affection for Americans, and took risks to get safely out of harms way. A great story and very well written.
They were helped along by the Philippine people that had such great affection for Americans, and took risks to get safely out of harms way. A great story and very well written.
December 19, 2018
An impossible voyage
Great first person account of an incredible escape through thousands of miles of Japanese controlled territory. The 18 men were a mishmash of personalities and abilities, which is probably a huge part of their success. If you’re interested in World War II this story is for you.
Great first person account of an incredible escape through thousands of miles of Japanese controlled territory. The 18 men were a mishmash of personalities and abilities, which is probably a huge part of their success. If you’re interested in World War II this story is for you.
January 31, 2019
Lots of fun to read, sad in places, but mostly a tear breaker to the end
Fun because f the many hou's I was blessed to spend in Nco clubs with enlisted pilots from marine corps during my time on okinawa. They had flown dive bombers out there during the war and had many stories to tell a youngster like me. Found memories.
Fun because f the many hou's I was blessed to spend in Nco clubs with enlisted pilots from marine corps during my time on okinawa. They had flown dive bombers out there during the war and had many stories to tell a youngster like me. Found memories.
April 25, 2020
Yet Another Amazing True Story Out of WW2 Pacific Theatre!
The true story of a USN Commanding Officer and 17 men who escaped the horrors awaiting them as POWs to the Japanese, and made the trip from Corregidor, Philippines to Northern Australia in an open boat. A testament to ingenuity, perseverance, and courage.
The true story of a USN Commanding Officer and 17 men who escaped the horrors awaiting them as POWs to the Japanese, and made the trip from Corregidor, Philippines to Northern Australia in an open boat. A testament to ingenuity, perseverance, and courage.
June 16, 2020
Excellent narrative of Lt. Cmdr. Morrison's exploits getting his crew to safety
I read quite a few books recounting war time experiences and would have to say this is probably one of the best. The author recounts his experiences as he brought 17 men to safety after the Japanese took the Philippines. Not only is the story riviting, the writing is crisp and clear.
I read quite a few books recounting war time experiences and would have to say this is probably one of the best. The author recounts his experiences as he brought 17 men to safety after the Japanese took the Philippines. Not only is the story riviting, the writing is crisp and clear.
June 21, 2022
A rare view
This novel is a skillfully written account of an actual journey to the safety of Australia by sailors escaping the Japanese threat of capture. Their experience of war, and the journey to safety, serves to provide insight to the determination needed to survive overwhelming odds.
This novel is a skillfully written account of an actual journey to the safety of Australia by sailors escaping the Japanese threat of capture. Their experience of war, and the journey to safety, serves to provide insight to the determination needed to survive overwhelming odds.
October 7, 2018
World War II Story
This book, written shortly after the war started is good but the book is fairly short. I had not known previously that any men made it from the Phillipines to Australia. The author has told an interesting story, but I think he made it sound easier than it was.
This book, written shortly after the war started is good but the book is fairly short. I had not known previously that any men made it from the Phillipines to Australia. The author has told an interesting story, but I think he made it sound easier than it was.
October 27, 2018
A thrilling account of an escape from the Japanese occupation
of the Philippines with a harrowing sea journey to Australia and ending happily with all being able to return to their previous stations.
of the Philippines with a harrowing sea journey to Australia and ending happily with all being able to return to their previous stations.
November 21, 2018
Enjoyable read
This was a quick easy read. What i really got from it was how many natives and Filipinos out boys owe their lives to. The men that escaped Corregidor would not have made it without them
This was a quick easy read. What i really got from it was how many natives and Filipinos out boys owe their lives to. The men that escaped Corregidor would not have made it without them
December 6, 2018
Splendid account
Anyone interested in WWII would find this a gripping book. I could hardly put down this tale of resourceful men and an amazing leader escaping from the Philippines after the Americans surrendered.
Anyone interested in WWII would find this a gripping book. I could hardly put down this tale of resourceful men and an amazing leader escaping from the Philippines after the Americans surrendered.
January 26, 2019
Great story!
Competent leaders and courageous sailors live a dream. They take control of their boat and their lives. They share their skills and their food. They meet exceptional natives who share resources and knowledge to aid the journey of our America sailors. All the while they avoid the fearsome Japanese.
Competent leaders and courageous sailors live a dream. They take control of their boat and their lives. They share their skills and their food. They meet exceptional natives who share resources and knowledge to aid the journey of our America sailors. All the while they avoid the fearsome Japanese.
February 5, 2019
Great read.
I am deep in reading about WWII and this book was a great fit for my studies. A true to life story of part of the greatest generation. Well written and a nail biter from start to finish.
I am deep in reading about WWII and this book was a great fit for my studies. A true to life story of part of the greatest generation. Well written and a nail biter from start to finish.
March 1, 2019
Best book I’ve read in a long while
This book is so well written that I found it hard to put down. I felt as though I was in the boat with those eighteen men as they escaped Corregidor. I highly recommend it.
This book is so well written that I found it hard to put down. I felt as though I was in the boat with those eighteen men as they escaped Corregidor. I highly recommend it.
October 17, 2019
Great book. Written right after the events!
Loved this book. One of the best I have ever read about Corregidor! And a great adventure store that is true! What a time to have been alive and in the USA service. Rick
Loved this book. One of the best I have ever read about Corregidor! And a great adventure store that is true! What a time to have been alive and in the USA service. Rick
October 30, 2019
WW2 Always like to know how Great your men where!
Will tell all old and not so old to read and earn about how great the American men of that time where and learn the history of this great country!!
Will tell all old and not so old to read and earn about how great the American men of that time where and learn the history of this great country!!
March 2, 2020
A slow and sometimes meandering read.
I was looking forward to this book and was a little disappointed. I understand that it's being told as a first person account, but suffers from a lack of editing.
I was looking forward to this book and was a little disappointed. I understand that it's being told as a first person account, but suffers from a lack of editing.
August 13, 2020
Quite an adventure
The things our fighting men went through to keep our nation free... this is an amazing story, an honorable tribute to, indeed, the Greatest Generation. A most excellent and interesting book!
The things our fighting men went through to keep our nation free... this is an amazing story, an honorable tribute to, indeed, the Greatest Generation. A most excellent and interesting book!
November 28, 2020
A remarkable feat
The 18 men on this boat were going to make it no matter the odds. They avoided capture and eventually arrived at precisely where they wanted to end their journey with very little instrumentation with which to navigate. An amazing tale of innovation and courage.
The 18 men on this boat were going to make it no matter the odds. They avoided capture and eventually arrived at precisely where they wanted to end their journey with very little instrumentation with which to navigate. An amazing tale of innovation and courage.
July 27, 2025
Quite a satisfying read
I really enjoyed this book. It always seems more enjoyable when the men in action provide their accounts of actual events. This book kept me interested in what was around the bend throughout.
I really enjoyed this book. It always seems more enjoyable when the men in action provide their accounts of actual events. This book kept me interested in what was around the bend throughout.
October 23, 2018
Great story
True stories are the best. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Author did a great job of explaining all the details.
True stories are the best. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Author did a great job of explaining all the details.
October 23, 2018
Outstanding read
This is a great book written by someone who served with distinction
I enjoyed it so much a read it straight through in one day.
This is a great book written by someone who served with distinction
I enjoyed it so much a read it straight through in one day.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews