Survivors

Langley to Edsall to Pecos to Whipple-

Pilot Dix was on the Langley when the old carrier was bombed, during the bombing he sustained wounds while manning a machine gun along with another AAC pilot.  

Left Edsall to join USS Seawitch-

Upon completing his enlistment with the US Navy Mr. Harrison was taken in by the Merchant Marine and served on the Sea Witch.  He made the transition about three weeks before the Edsall's last action.

Langley to Whipple to Pecos to Whipple-

If you've viewed the first part of JJ Nix's Asiatica

you may recall Ltcdr. Divoll having "gently but firmly" pushing a sailor, who was sitting at the edge of the ship's flight deck, off of the ship during the evacuation.  That sailor was "Bill" Warnes.

He was picked up by the USS Edsall after the sinking of the USS Langley, his memory of the Edsall was that he was given a blanket and a cup of coffee.   Lt. Dix went on to a distinguished career flying combat in Europe and serving in the USAF after the war.   

I was able to speak with Fred and Kelley Geary for a bit during Christmas 2005.  He was still Salty, as we discussed the Edsall and her crew.  When I  mentioned the officers he replied laughingly and fondly, "That bunch of punks",  with a touch of the tough manner typical of Asiatic Fleet veterans as he continued describing life on the ship.

Mr. Warnes retired in Kansas with family

and Friends. 

Serving on the USS Houston and like the Edsall the Houston met a Japanese Fleet while retreating from Java and fought an overwhelming enemy force.

Executive officer of the USS Langley.

Was with Lt. Gerald Dix also manning a machine gun and also wounded in the attacks that disabled the Langley.  Later died of wounds from a training accident.