Disclaimer: The Rat Patrol is not my property. They come out to play sometimes, then I send them home.
Author's note: Cape Verde was a Portuguese colony during World War II. The German Operation Felix (Führer Directive No. 18) was aimed at capturing Gibraltar, the Canary Islands, and the Cape Verde Islands (November 12, 1940). It was never executed and then shelved as Hitler's focus turned east (January 1941). The plan was premised on Franco's support, but he refused to join the Axis. Portuguese authorities declared neutrality, but gradually shifted to a pro-Allied position.
Creative license is at it again.
Take a Stand
By Suzie2b
The Rat Patrol was being transported from the coast of Senegal by a PT boat to where they would board a British U-boat that was to take them to the location of their next mission in Namibia – full details of the mission were not disclosed before they left the mainland, but the four Allies would be briefed upon their arrival.
The U-boat was to meet them at coordinates not far from the Cape Verde Islands. As the light and fast PT boat cut through the water to where they were to meet the submarine, the crew sighted a German bomber over the islands at the same time the U-boat began to surface.
The captain of PT-54 tried to contact the sub, to warn them, but it was too late. The bomber dropped its load, directly hitting the U-boat with a thunderous explosion. At first the PT-54 captain ordered the helm to begin looking for survivors, but as they neared the sinking submarine, which had been broken in half, two German He-112 fighters appeared in the sky and began to strafe the PT boat as well as the men that were already in the water.
PT-54 was a torpedo boat – their targets were generally enemy boats, ships, and submarines. They weren't really equipped to deal with the fast and maneuverable German fighters. Their large caliber machine guns, which were usually capable of downing a low flying aircraft, were heavy and couldn't be moved around quick enough to catch one of the planes before it made a turn.
All Troy and his men could do was duck and cover while the Navy tried to fight off the German attack.
Unfortunately, their valiant efforts were unsuccessful and PT-54 went down with all hands.
##################
There was a lot of confusion in the water. There were no life boats and nowhere to hide as the Germans continued to strafe the water.
Finally, the planes disappeared to catch up with the bomber. The first thing Troy heard once the guns stopped were men crying out for help. There were dead and wounded all around him. He was treading water and tried desperately to locate Moffitt, Hitch, and Tully.
Small boats from the nearby islands began to appear after the fighters left, and started picking up both survivors and the dead.
Troy was hauled into one of the civilian boats. He took stock of himself and discovered his only injuries were small cuts and bruises, so he immediately began to help bring others onboard. The whole time keeping an eye out for his friends.
Once a boat was filled to capacity, it made its way back to their respective home ports to tend to the wounded. The boat Troy was in docked at Cape Verde's capital city of Praia on the island of Sao Tiago along with several other boats.
As Troy stood on the dock watching the wounded being offloaded, he heard a familiar voice and spun around to see a rather soggy looking Moffitt hurrying towards him. "Troy! Are you all right?"
The sergeant nodded as he looked his friend over. "How about you?"
"Nothing serious. Have you seen Tully or Hitch?"
"Not yet."
Moffitt saw the look on Troy's face and said, "I'm sure they're all right. Someone had to have picked them up."
A middle-aged woman appeared and ushered Troy and Moffitt to one of the waiting horse drawn carts, to be taken to the small island hospital.
After their relatively minor injuries were attended to – a few stitches in a laceration in Troy's arm along with plenty of bruises. Cuts, scrapes, and major bruising for Moffitt – the sergeants were taken to the most prominent building on the island. A church on a hill overlooking the water and docks where cots were being set up for those men who didn't need to stay in hospital.
Troy looked around and said, "I don't need this. I need to find Hitch and Tully."
A nun insisted, "You need to rest now."
"Two of my men are missing."
The nun nodded understandingly. "Their names?"
Troy said, "Mark Hitchcock and Tully Pettigrew. Both are privates in the U.S. Army."
"We will find them. Now you must rest."
The woman walked away and Troy shook his head. He took two steps, intending to go look for his friends, but Moffitt caught him by the arm and said, "She's right, Troy."
The sergeant growled, "She didn't even write their names down."
"There's too much going on right now. Let's rest now and when the chaos subsides we can go looking for Hitch and Tully."
After a couple of hours of rest, Troy and Moffitt went looking for the privates. They didn't find them, but were told that some of the men were taken to the islands of Fogo and Brava, where there were also small medical facilities. The sergeants hoped Hitch and Tully were among those.
##################
When morning came, things were grim. The news in Praia was that the few survivors of the thirty onboard the British U-boat that had made it to the capital city had died of their injuries overnight. The radioed news from Fogo and Brava was no better. The only ones still alive were from PT-54. Of the fourteen man crew, six were in critical condition with burns, broken bones, and bullet wounds, among other injuries, and weren't expected to live. Four were already dead. There were two sailors with relatively minor wounds that were resting on cots in the church. The rest of the crew were MIA.
Troy and Moffitt were on the docks watching as a boat arrived with a few of the wounded. As the boat tied up at the dock, Moffitt saw a familiar kepi out on the deck. The sergeant pointed and said, "Look there."
Troy picked Hitch out immediately and the sergeants hurried out to meet him. When Troy and Moffitt got to the boat, someone was helping Hitch over the side and onto the dock. The private was moving gingerly and obviously in some discomfort as he held his side. His open shirt showed off the white bandages wrapped around his torso. There was also a small bandage covering a cut on his forehead.
Hitch smiled wearily when he spotted his sergeants. "Hey, you two okay?"
Troy said, "We're fine. What about you?"
"A couple of cracked ribs and a bump on the head is the worst of it." Hitch looked around, then asked, "Where's Tully?"
Moffitt said, "We were hoping he'd be with you."
"I looked around after I got done at their medical station, but I didn't see him or you two."
"Which island were you taken to?"
Hitch replied, "I was on Brava."
Troy said, "Let's hope he ended up on Fogo. They're supposed to be bringing the last of the survivors over today. The hospital here is better equipped."
"It doesn't sound like there was very many survivors, sarge."
"Yeah, that's the word we got too." Troy noticed the slightly glazed look in Hitch's eyes. "Let's get you a cot so you can lay down."
When they entered the church they were met by the same nun, who asked with a kind smile, "Is this one of your missing men?"
Troy nodded. "Yes, ma'am. Private Pettigrew is still missing though."
"I am Sister Sarai. I will keep an eye out for the private. In the meantime, please feel free to lie down and rest."
The boat from Fogo wasn't due for several hours, so Troy and Moffitt decided to rest a bit with Hitch in a cot between them.
##################
It was Sister Sarai that awoke Troy with news. "Sergeant, I believe your missing man has arrived from Fogo."
As Troy sat up, he could hear loud voices and one of them was Tully's. With a stretcher between them, two men from the docks carried a protesting private into the church.
Father Aubry hurried to keep up with the stretcher, saying, "Please keep your voice down. If you would only cooperate, private, I'm sure we…"
Tully growled, "Then untie me!"
Troy stopped the stretcher-bearers. "What's going on?"
Tully grinned. "Sarge! Am I glad to see you!"
Father Aubry asked, "Is this the missing man Sister Sarai told me about?"
Troy nodded. "He is. Why is he tied to the stretcher?"
"These men have explained that he's been a bit, well … belligerent, sergeant."
Moffitt and Hitch joined Troy and Tully said, "I'm okay now, sarge."
Father Aubry said, "I've been told that he kept trying to leave the medical facility on Fogo, saying he had to find his friends. I assume he was talking about you three."
Troy pointed to the unused cot next to Hitch's. Take him over there. He shouldn't cause any more problems."
The stretcher was placed on Troy's cot and Moffitt and Hitch helped Tully over to the next one.
As the two men left with the stretcher, one handed Father Aubry a pair of crutches and said in Portuguese, "O doutor enviou esses para ele."
Father Aubry took them with a gracious thank you. "Obrigado." He handed the crutches to Moffitt and said, "The medical team on Fogo sent these for him to use."
Moffitt took them with a slight smile, knowing the fight to get Tully to use them was about to start. "Thank you, Father."
As Father Aubry walked away, Tully groused, "I won't be needin' those."
Moffitt set them on the floor next to the private's cot. "Not as long as you stay off your feet."
Troy saw the wide swath of bandage that covered a good portion of Tully thigh. "How bad is it?"
Tully levered himself up onto his elbows. "Not too bad. They put in some stitches."
"And the bruise on the side of your head?"
Tully put his hand over the sore spot on his temple. "I'm okay, sarge. Lost my helmet when we were goin' down and smacked my head on something hard."
Hitch smiled, "Good thing you hit your head or you could've really gotten hurt."
Instead of making the snide remark that was on the tip of his tongue, Tully commented with concern on the bandages Hitch was wearing. "You okay?"
"A couple cracked ribs. Nothing serious."
Tully looked at the sergeants. He saw Troy's bandaged arm and the cuts and black eye on Moffitt's face. "You both all right?"
Moffitt said, "Nothing that time won't heal."
##################
At about noon Sister Sarai and two teenaged local girls brought meals to the two men from the PT-54 recovering in the church as well as the Rat Patrol. The Sister said, "I'm afraid soup and bread is all we can offer right now."
Moffitt smiled graciously as he took the bowl and piece of bread. "It smells heavenly, Sister. Thank you."
After Sister Sarai served the men their food, and the two girls were assisting the other injured men eat, she asked, "Of course it is none of my business … but why is the Army here?" Troy and Moffitt looked at her somewhat blankly and she quickly continued, "It is just that we see the British and American Navy sail by quite often, but this is the first time the Army has graced our shores."
Troy said, "To be honest we aren't supposed to be here, Sister. We were on that PT-boat to meet the submarine that surfaced just before that bomber hit."
"I see. Well, that explains it then. I won't ask any further questions about your mission."
Moffitt asked, "Is there a way to contact the mainland. It could be that the attack was witnessed. I'd feel better knowing someone will soon be coming to pick the survivors up."
Sister Sarai nodded. "We do have a radio we use mainly to keep in contact with our other islands. Father Aubry was able to find the proper channel last night and called for your evacuation."
Troy questioned with a wary frown, "The proper channel?"
"Yes, our need to contact the British or American Navies is so infrequent that the channels they use move and we have to find them again. Apparently we were lucky this time. Father Aubry told me he found it on the first try."
Moffitt knew the look on Troy's face and decided to change the subject. "Sister Sarai, I've not seen any other nuns since our arrival."
Sister Sarai replied, "Not long after the war arrived in North Africa it was decided to send the others to safer grounds. It is only Father Abry and I now. We will stay until there is nothing left to stay for or until the war is over and the other can return."
"Do the Germans come to the islands often?"
"Occasionally they go to San Antao or San Vicente. Those islands are sheltered from the mainland. I would rather not go into what happens when they land there, the people are afraid to call for help when they do."
##################
Later that day Troy was resting when Tully hobbled back to his cot and sat down with a tired sigh.
Troy watched him and asked, "Leg bothering you?"
Tully shrugged. "Not too much."
"I told myself I wasn't going to lecture you about using those crutches, but I swear, if you tear out those stitches I'll have your head."
"I'm being careful, sarge. I just don't wanna use 'em if I don't really need to."
Hitch was sleeping on his cot, but Moffitt was nowhere to be seen. Troy asked, "Did you see Moffitt outside when you were out there?"
Tully nodded. "He's sitting outside watching the docks."
Troy sat up and got to his feet. "Why don't you and put that leg up for a while and get some rest?"
Tully simply nodded as Troy started for the door. Outside he found Moffitt sitting in a rocking chair staring out at the sparkling water and the fishing boats coming and going.
Troy knelt down next to the chair. "See anything of interest?"
Moffitt sighed. "I see a lot of people who should be terrified of this war, but somehow they don't act like it."
"What else can they do? Where would they go? I think they're better off here than on the mainland."
"Could be." Moffitt glanced at Troy and said, "I saw the look on your face when Sister Sarai mentioned radioing to have us evacuated. You're thinking it wasn't the British or the Americans that answered that call."
Troy nodded. "Yeah, that's exactly what I'm thinking."
"How can we know for sure?"
"Wait and see who shows up to take us out of here…"
Moffitt heard the hesitation. "Or?"
Troy said, "We can make a call of our own. If it's verified that Father Aubry spoke to the good guys, then we don't have anything to worry about."
"Shall we go find Father Aubry?"
It didn't take long for the word to get to the Father that the two Allies were looking for him. He was the one that found them wandering the church grounds. "Good afternoon, Sergeant Troy, Sergeant Moffitt. I got word you were looking for me. What can I do for you?"
Troy said, "Sister Sarai told us you contacted the mainland to get help for the survivors."
"Yes, I was able to get through last night."
"What frequency did you use?"
Father Aubry said, "Offhand I couldn't tell you. But I can show you."
Troy and Moffitt were taken to a small shack located at the back of the church. Inside was a rudimentary radio setup consisting of a transmitter, a small receiver, and a microphone.
Troy sat down at the table where the radio was and Father Aubry showed him on the transmitter's dial the frequencies he uses. He set the dial to one and explained, "These frequencies in this range are how we contact and receive messages from the other islands, as well as the mainland." He turned the dial again. "These frequencies in here are what we use if we need to contact either the British or the American Navy. Since we can never be sure where they are I check each until I locate them."
Troy asked, "Do you remember the one you used last night?"
Father Abry eyed the dial as he turned it, then stopped and said, "It was this one."
"You're sure?"
"Yes indeed. I remember seeing that it was just slightly off from what I usually use, but thought nothing more of it."
Troy looked at Moffitt. "Do you see it?"
Moffitt nodded. "I do. Shall we find out for sure?"
Troy stood up so Moffitt could sit down. Father Aubry and Troy watched Moffitt turn on the radio and check the frequencies. They had nothing but static. Then he tuned to the frequency the Father had used. Without hesitation he started making the call in German.
Father Aubry questioned confusedly, "What is he doing?"
Troy simply held a finger to his lips to quiet him.
Almost immediately a voice came back, also in German. The conversation went on for no more than a minute before Moffitt signed off. He switched the radio off as he said, "The Germans are planning to raid Sao Tiago late tomorrow morning. They know there are survivors here and plan to take us all prisoner if possible … or destroy the island if they can't get to us."
Father Aubry was horrified as he realized what he'd inadvertently done. "I alerted the Germans that you are here. That was certainly not my intention."
Moffitt said, "They were jamming the other common signals so the only frequency you would be able to use was this one."
Troy asked, "Are they still jamming the other frequencies?"
"Yes."
Troy sighed as he thought and began to pace. "We don't have a lot of time."
Moffitt stood up. "Father Aubry, is it possible there are other parts to this radio? Perhaps they've been stored away?"
The Father smiled slightly. "As a matter-of-fact there are some things." He moved to a small chest across the room and opened it. "These things were here when I arrived two years ago. I know the basics of operating the radio, but had no idea what to do with these things."
Moffitt grinned as he looked into the chest. "Troy, we're in luck."
Among the odds and ends there was a set of headphones, a straight key for Morse code, and an out-of-date code book.
Troy picked up the code book and flipped through it. Moffitt looked over his shoulder and said, "It's pretty old."
Troy gave a nod. "Yeah, but I think we can make it work."
"What are you thinking?"
"I'm thinking of using a whole different set of frequencies. Go get Hitch and Tully."
A few minutes later, Hitch and Tully were there and Troy explained his plan. He had set up the key and headphones and said, "Hitch, I need you to contact the base at either Beit Jala or al-Gubayl. Explain the situation and have them contact the Navy."
Hitch asked, "What is the situation, sarge?"
"The Germans know there are survivors here and are planning a raid for tomorrow morning. They've jammed all other frequencies and we're unable to get through to the Navy directly. The frequency you'll need to send that shouldn't be effected, but you'll have to use Morse code."
Hitch glanced through the code book and said, "This book is pretty out-of-date."
Troy said, "I know. Use the code word 'alabaster'. That's the newest one I have. It should prove you're legit."
Hitch gave a nod and sat down to make out his message using the code book.
Moffitt asked, "What if the message doesn't go through in time … or not at all?"
Troy said, "We need a way to hold them off until help can get here."
Tully said, "We lost everything when the boat went down, sarge. We don't have guns, ammo, or anything else to help us."
Moffitt turned to Father Aubry. "Are there any weapons on the island, Father?"
The Father shook his head. "These people are farmers and fisherman. They have no need of the weapons you are talking about." He thought for a moment, then said, "Wait, there might be something. Come with me."
Troy, Moffitt, and Tully followed Father Aubry out of the shack and into the church through a backdoor. They climbed a steep winding staircase made of stone.
Father Aubry and Troy reached the top first, as Moffitt helped Tully. Outside there was a fantastic view of the ocean … and in front of them on the landing was a row of five black powder cannons. They weren't the type of cannons that any army or navy would be using in this war. They looked antique and quite ornate.
Moffitt and Tully caught up with Father Aubry and Troy. Moffitt said, "I say. What have we here?"
Tully leaned against a wall to catch his breath as Moffitt moved closer to have a better look.
Father Aubry explained, "The story goes that these were placed here when the church was built and have only been used for ceremonial purposes."
Moffitt looked over the gleaming bronze cannons. "Very old indeed, but they appear to be in good condition."
Tully pushed himself away from the wall and limped over to have a look as Father Aubry said, "They've not been fired since I've been here, but I have a man come in twice a month to make sure they remain in good condition."
Tully knelt painfully to check the barrel, then stood with Moffitt's help as he said, "They're like something off a pirate ship … only fancier. Do you have the fixings to fire 'em?"
"If you're referring to the powder, fuses, and such. Yes, it is all stored in this room over here." The father went to a door and located the key on the large ring he carried.
When the door was opened, Troy, Moffitt, and Tully went in. There was enough powder, fuses, and cannon shot to start a small war all on its own.
Tully gave a low whistle and said, "If this is still good, we may have a way to help keep the Germans busy until help comes."
Father Aubry said, "It was checked just two weeks ago and found to be ready to use at any time."
Troy asked, "Do you know how to load these cannons?"
"No, I've never had a reason to, but I know people who do and I'm sure they'd be willing to help us."
Tully said, "My dad has an old muzzleloader. I know the basics, but I'm going to heed help either way."
Troy said, "All right, Father, find someone who knows how to load and fire these."
Father Aubry said, "I'll do that immediately. May I first ask, sergeant, should the other islands be contacted and warned of what's coming?"
Moffitt said, "With the frequencies jammed, there's no way to get through."
Troy thought for a second, then said, "I'm thinking that the Germans will concentrate on this island because of the capital city. If any captains are willing to take the chance, there may be time to send boats to whichever islands you think should know."
Father Aubry said, "I will send boats to Brava, Fogo, and Maio. They will be the most vulnerable. I will also start word around so the people here know what's going on."
"Before you do that find someone to help with the cannons."
##################
Later on Hitch found Troy, Moffitt, and Father Aubry discussing plans out in front of the church. "I got through to Beit Jala, sarge. Your code word worked. They're going to contact the Navy to send help."
Troy said, "Good. I need you to monitor the radio in case they call back."
"Right, sarge. Is there anything else I can do?"
"With cracked ribs the radio will be enough for now. If something comes up, I'll let you know."
Father Aubry said, "I can watch the radio."
Moffitt smiled slightly as he asked, "Do you know Morse code?"
"Aah, I'm afraid not."
Hitch said, "That's okay, Father. Thanks for the offer."
Father Abry said, "I will however assist Sister Sarai with the evening meal. You need to eat to keep up your strength."
Troy quickly said, "Before you go, Father, were you able to find someone to help with the cannons?"
"Actually, I had many volunteers, sergeant. I chose Miguel and Francisco because they have worked with the cannons before and they speak English quite well. They will be up on the landing and waiting before sunrise."
With that Father Abry left to go to the kitchen.
Hitch asked, "How's Tully doing with his leg?"
Moffitt replied, "The stairs up to where the cannons are is difficult for him, but he's managing with a little assistance. How are you feeling?"
"Sore, but not too bad as long as I'm careful." Hitch looked at Moffitt's bruised face and asked, "How are you and Troy holding up?"
"We're doing just that – holding up. When this is all over I'm sure we'll all be ready for a rest."
##################
Early the next morning, Moffitt helped Tully up the staircase to where the cannons were. Two men were already there waiting.
Moffitt smiled. "You must be Miguel and Francisco. Father Aubry told us you'd be here early."
One of the men said, "I am Francisco, he is Miguel. We wish to help keep the enemy away and will gladly do what is needed."
"Thank you. Your help is very much appreciated." Moffitt indicated Tully and said, "This is Private Pettigrew. He will instruct you on what needs to be done." He turned to the private. "I'm to meet Troy downstairs. We're going to scout the beach."
Tully nodded. "Okay, sarge. We'll be ready when the time comes." Once the sergeant had disappeared down the stairs, he said, "Okay, first off it's going to be easier if you call me Tully." Both Miguel and Francisco nodded. "Right, now let's go over how to load these cannons."
##################
Moffitt met Troy outside near the radio shack and they headed down towards the docks and beach. As they passed through town, a man hurried over to stop them. He said, "Come please." The sergeants looked at each other and the man tugged slightly on Troy's sleeve. "You come please."
Troy finally shrugged and gestured that he was willing to follow. "Lead on."
The man they found out was known as Emilio. He took Troy and Moffitt to a small house. Around the back Emilio went to a door that opened into a cellar. He waved for the sergeants to follow, which they did.
Emilio lit a lantern and went to a corner where sacks of grain were stacked. He hung the lantern on a nail and began to move the sacks. Troy and Moffitt helped and soon a trapdoor appeared. The sergeants looked on curiously as Emilio opened the trapdoor, then took the lantern and went down inside.
Moffitt gasped quietly and said, "Oh my goodness."
Troy grinned and dropped down beside Emilio. It was a cache of weapons, ammunition, and grenades.
Moffitt asked, "How does it look?"
Troy started looking the cache over and said, "Everything looks dry and in decent shape."
Emilio smiled. "You can use?"
Troy turned and clapped him on the shoulder with a smile. "We can use."
"Please no tell Father Aubry or Sister Sarai."
"It'll be our secret, Emilio."
Moffitt pointed as he said, "Over in that corner, Troy. Is that what I think it is?"
Troy made his way over to where several cases were stacked. "If you mean these walkie-talkies, yeah." He picked up a map and said, "There's a map of the island too."
With a smile Moffitt said, "Now we're in business."
Troy grabbed two machine guns, and ammo to go with them. Then he and Emilio climbed up out of the cellar. Troy said, "We'll be back for more later, Emilio. Thank you."
Moffitt took one of the machine guns and checked it. There was a loaded clip already inserted. Troy checked the one he held and found the same thing. They each put extra clips in their pockets and Moffitt put the map in his jacket.
Troy said, "After we check the beach, we'll stop back here for two more guns and grenades."
##################
Troy and Moffitt climbed down the ancient rock retaining wall to the rocky strip of beach. They walked away from the docks to where there was a bend and the beach disappeared entirely.
Moffitt looked at his watch and said, "This is low tide and the only place to put a boat in is this beach and the docks."
Troy asked, "What about the backside of the island?"
Moffitt retrieved the map and looked it over. "According to this there is a beach there, but there's also a good portion of jungle the Germans would have to navigate to get here."
"And it would expose any enemy boats to the other islands."
"With the frequencies jammed the other islands have no way to warn us."
"They may not want to take the chance we'll somehow get a warning right away." Troy sighed. "I'm thinking the Germans want more than the few of us who survived that bombing."
Moffitt nodded. "They want to capture the capital city so they can take control of Cape Verde as a whole."
"If they control the islands, they can control a big piece of waterway between here and the mainland."
The sergeants started back towards the docks as Moffitt said, "If that's what's going on, then they'll want to avoid bombing the town."
Troy agreed. "They're going to think there won't be anyone here who can defend the city."
"Well, I suppose we're going to have to prove them wrong."
##################
On the way back to the church, Troy and Moffitt went by way of Emilio's cache. They picked up two more machine guns with extra clips, the walkie-talkies, and two cases of grenades.
Troy said, "Maybe we should arm the villagers."
Emilio said, "No guns."
Moffitt started, "But how…"
"We have weapons. We will help."
Troy said, "We trust you and your people, Emilio. Just be careful."
After leaving Emilio, the sergeants stopped by the radio shack first. Troy set the case he'd carried down and asked, "Any news?"
Hitch shook his head. "Nothing yet." Troy set a machine gun and ammo on the desk and Hitch asked, "Where'd you get this stuff?"
Troy smiled. "This island is better equipped to fight than most of the villages in the desert." He set one of the walkie-talkies on the desk and said, "Now, we think the Germans are going to come ashore to try to take the capital first. Keep this nearby. We'll keep you informed on what's going on."
Hitch nodded and picked up the walkie-talkie. "And I'll be able to let you know if there's any word from Beit Jala or the Navy. What's the channel?"
Troy looked at the walkie in his hand and switched the dial. "Let's keep it on channel 6." He looked at Moffitt and said, "Let's get the rest of this up to Tully."
##################
Troy and Moffitt went up the stairs to where Tully and his helpers were getting the cannons ready. Moffitt set the case of grenades down and Troy put the machine gun and clips on top of it as he asked, "How's it going, Tully?"
Tully stopped what he was doing and said, "It's goin', sarge. What'd ya bring me?"
Moffitt said, "We thought perhaps you might be able to use a little extra fire power."
"Thanks. I'm not going to ask you where you found 'em, but I'm sure they'll come in handy."
Troy asked, "Are the cannons ready?"
Tully nodded. "It's pretty much like my dad's muzzleloader. Gunpowder, then the cotton wadding. As Francisco says 'insert round lead projectile'. Ramrod it all in firmly and set the fuse."
"Sounds like everything's under control here. Do you know how far the cannonballs will fly?"
"Miguel says they go as far as the beach. They like to get 'em back to reuse."
Troy said, "That should work. Moffitt and I think the Germans will try landing on the beach or at the docks … or both."
Tully asked, "Will there be any help from the townspeople?"
Moffitt replied, "It sounds like it. Let's hope for the best."
"Did Hitch get through on the radio?"
Troy said, "He was able to contact Beit Jala and they're contacting the Navy." He looked at his watch. "Stay on your toes. The German Navy should be making an appearance at any time."
##################
It was about an hour later, at 10:30am, when the first of the German destroyers appeared. It wasn't long before two more showed up and took up positions about a mile offshore Sao Tiago.
As Tully watched, small boats were lowered into the water from each ship. "Okay. Miguel, Francisco, let's get ready."
Tully picked up a punk and used a match to get it glowing hot. Miguel and Francisco stood nearby to quickly reload the cannons as they were fired.
##################
Troy, Moffitt, and Father Aubry were standing at the edge of town, in full view of the ships. They knew they were being watched as the small boats full of men were lowered into the water.
Troy keyed the walkie-talkie and spoke into the mic, "Hitch, you read me?"
A moment later the private answered, "I'm here, sarge."
"Three German destroyers are just offshore. They're already lowering boats to come in."
"Right. I'll be ready for them."
Troy asked, "Have you heard anything from our Navy?"
Hitch replied, "Nothing yet. I'm getting ready to send another message to Beit Jala to let them know what's going on here."
"Let's hope they have good news for us."
Moffitt turned to Father Aubry and said, "You'd better join Sister Sarai with the women and children. We armed the sailors in the church and they'll stay with you. You'll be safer in there than out here."
The Father nodded. "I'll get word started that the Germans are here."
Moffitt had spotted several men standing on the dock earlier. Now they were running full tilt up into town. "I believe the word is going around as we speak."
##################
The small wooden boats full of German soldiers were rowed ashore. Once they were landing on the beach, Tully said, "Let's show 'em we're paying attention."
The private touched the punk to a cannon's fuse and set it sizzling. Seconds later there was a loud "BOOM" and the cannon jumped as it let its cannonball fly with a large puff of smoke.
As Tully watched the cannonball, Miguel and Francisco moved quickly to reload the cannon.
##################
Troy and Moffitt heard the cannon at the same time the Germans did and took cover. The sergeants watched as the men on the beach frantically looked around for where the shot was coming from.
Before the Germans knew what was going on the cannonball hit the shoreline between two of the boats with a spray of water and rocks.
Surprised, the Germans quickly took cover against the retaining wall.
There was another loud report and a second cannonball sailed toward the beach. This time it hit one of the boats, smashing a hole through its bottom.
Troy questioned, "How many do you think?"
Moffitt replied, "Maybe forty in total."
A third cannonball was sent over and hit the beach close to where some of the Germans were at the retaining wall. Rocks and gravel flew like shrapnel, wounding several of the men.
"Once the shock of the cannon fire wears off, they're going to come over that wall straight into town. We aren't going to be able to hold them off."
Troy said, "Better warn Hitch what's coming."
Just then they heard Hitch calling on the radio. "Troy, are you there?"
The sergeant said, "Yeah, Hitch, what's going on?"
"Beit Jala has just gotten through to the Navy. They'll send help, but it'll take a while for them to get here. So Beit Jala is sending some planes to give us a hand."
Troy said, "Okay, that's something anyway. We've got about forty Germans on the beach."
"I heard Tully's cannons."
"Unfortunately, that's not going to hold them for long. Just be ready."
Another "BOOM" and another cannonball hit the beach.
Hitch said confidently, "I'm ready, sarge."
The last thing Troy said was, "Don't get yourself trapped in that shack. Move into the church if you have to."
Moffitt was watching the beach and spotted several heads pop up. "They're getting ready to charge."
##################
After that last shot, Tully surveyed the beach. He knew the Germans were getting ready to come over the retaining wall, which meant the cannons wouldn't be of much use anymore … unless… "Miguel, we need to elevate the front of a couple of these cannons."
Miguel immediately understood what Tully wanted. "I know what you need." He disappeared into the room and came out dragging a large block of wood by an attached length of rope. "There are more inside."
Tully moved as quickly as his leg would let him and dragged out two of the heavy blocks while Miguel went back for a long iron rod. As he came out, he said, "We use this to lift."
Tully took the rod. "Perfect." He dragged one of the blocks of wood over beside one of the cannons as he said, "Francisco, fire off that cannon and get it reloaded." Tully put one end of the rod through the spokes of the wooden wheels and set the other over the block.
Francisco lit the fuse and the cannon blew a lead ball in the direction of the beach.
"Okay, Miguel, when I get the cannon high enough, push a block under there." With all his might, Tully levered the cannon up and Miguel quickly pushed the block under it. They could hear yelling coming from below as Tully and Miguel moved to another cannon. "Francisco, light this one off!"
Francisco touched the hot tip of the punk to the fuse as Tully levered up a second cannon. The change of angle did the trick. The cannonball went on a higher trajectory and came down in the middle of the yard outside the church just as the first wave of Germans got there. Francisco let out a triumphant yelp as the cannonball hit one of the Germans.
Tully looked over the wall at the dead German and said, "Okay, keep the cannons goin'!"
Miguel and Francisco reloaded and fired as quickly as they could. Some aimed at the beach where another wave of the enemy was preparing to attack and the two that fell heavy lead balls onto those trying to get to the church.
Tully went to the case of grenades and moved it over to the wall before he pried the lid up. He picked up the machine gun and checked to be sure there was a full clip in it, then went to work alternating between shooting and dropping grenades.
##################
Hitch heard the Germans war cry as they raced up from the beach. He quickly put the walkie-talkie in his shirt. Then, ignoring the pain in his side, he grabbed the case of grenades with one hand and the machine gun in the other intending to go into the church. As Hitch turned for the door, a German stepped into the shack. With a hateful grin he brought his rifle up to fire, but Hitch was quicker and killed the German with one short burst from the machine gun. Without hesitation Hitch stepped over the body and hurried the short distance to the door into the church.
He saw no one as he ran up the aisle to the front doors, leaving the case and gun on the front pew. With some effort Hitch managed to get the tall heavy wooden doors shut just in time, but realized too late that there was no lock. He threw all of his weight against the doors as the Germans did the same from the outside.
Suddenly there was a person on either side of Hitch, pushing against the doors. They were the two sailors from the PT-54. Father Aubry moved quickly to slide a thick plank across the doors, locking it in place with a bracket on either side.
Hitch backed away from the doors and asked, "Where are the others?"
Father Aubry said, "Sister Sarai took them to the living quarters on the west side."
Hitch looked at the two sailors. "The Germans are going to start coming in the backdoor any time. Get back there and hold them off for as long as you can." As the sailors moved as quickly as their injuries would allow, Hitch turned to the Father and asked, "Can you fight?"
"Not according to my vows, but if it's to protect the church and the people, I will do what needs to be done."
Hitch picked up the machine gun, gave a quick tutorial on how to use it and change the clip. "Think you can handle it?"
Father Aubry took the gun, pulled the slide back and let it go, priming the gun for action. "I believe I can."
"I suggest you stay out of sight and only use it if you have to."
The Father nodded. "Where will you be?"
"Bell tower." Hitch picked up the case of grenades and headed for the stairs as the sailors opened fire in the back.
Father Aubry hurried to the confessional and went inside, pulling the long black curtain closed behind him.
##################
Troy and Moffitt watched as the first wave of Germans jumped the wall and ran for the church. A few minutes later a second wave came over and moved more cautiously into the town.
The sergeants picked their targets carefully, being sure that they wouldn't hit any of the locals that were hiding throughout the town.
When the Germans realized there were only two guns being fired at them, they took up defensive positions to figure out where the shooting was coming from.
Troy and Moffitt quickly split up and kept moving to make it harder for the enemy to pinpoint them and return fire.
The people knew their town well and were able to sneak up on the Germans. They used everything from garden tools to kitchen knives to pieces of firewood as weapons. They struck quick and hard, and then ducked back into hiding.
##################
The bell tower was above the landing where Tully and the cannons were. Hitch looked down at his friend and gave a sharp whistle. Tully looked up and saw Hitch waving at him to let him know he was there. He waved his acknowledgement and got back to work. Moments later a grenade sailed through the air from the bell tower and landed among the surging Germans and the screams the shrapnel caused when it exploded were quite satisfying.
Hitch held a grenade in each hand as he made his way around the tower to check the back of the church. He could hear the gunfire below. When he looked over the edge he could see the Germans were in the cover of the trees returning fire at the sailors inside the church.
Hitch tossed first one grenade, then another in quick succession, killing several of the enemy. Two Germans looked up and spotted the American above. As they both raised their rifles, Hitch ducked down. The bullets hit the bell, making a clanking sound as they ricocheted off.
There was a shrill whistle and Hitch stayed low as he went back to see what Tully wanted. When he stood up and looked down, Hitch saw Tully pointing out towards the water.
Hitch pulled the walkie-talkie out of his shirt and called, "Troy, are you there?"
Troy answered, "I'm a little busy right now! What do you need?"
Hitch said, "There's more boats coming in, sarge!"
"How many?"
"Looks like eight!"
Troy said under his breath, "Great. Just what we needed." Then he keyed the mic and said, "Okay, just keep doing the best you can! Those Allied planes should be here soon!"
Hitch set the radio aside and looked out at the growing hoard of Germans as he said to himself, "I sure hope so."
The Germans were now shooting at Hitch and Tully. They, along with Miguel and Francisco, were forced to stay down behind the low stone walls surrounding the landing and bell tower. Tully had to give up using the machine gun and started lobbing grenades while Miguel and Francisco took care of the cannons, sending the lead projectiles out to the beach as well as the area closer in to the church.
##################
Inside the two sailors were starting to run low on ammo and were getting ready to go hand-to-hand if necessary.
Then they heard the low rumble of bombers overhead. Before the German Navy could man their guns, Allied bombs were dropped on the destroyers.
Then Allied fighters appeared and began strafing runs on the boats heading for the beach as well as the grounds around the church.
The Germans pushed their way into the church, forcing the sailors to give up their positions and back into the sanctuary itself.
Father Aubry peeked out of the confessional he was in and gasped at what he saw overrunning his sanctuary. At first he used the machine gun as a club, hitting any German that got too close over the head.
One German saw what was happening and snuck up next to the confessional. He waited for the Father to take a swing at the next man that happened by. Then he grabbed the barrel of the machine gun and pulled the Father out of hiding. However, Father Aubry didn't let go of the gun and instead inadvertently pulled the trigger. The German was dead before he hit the floor. The Father quickly looked around, then stepped back into the confessional.
One of the sailors reached in and grabbed Father Aubry by the arm. As he pulled the Father out, he yelled, "Upstairs!"
He pushed Father Aubry ahead of him and the other sailor as they rushed up the stairs.
##################
On the landing, Tully heard people coming up the stairs and spun around, grabbing his gun as he moved, in time to see the two sailors and Father Aubry run through the doorway.
One of the sailors turned as if to close the door and realized there wasn't one. He yelled, "Why isn't there a door?"
Father Aubry replied, "We never needed one before!"
Knowing what was coming Tully yelled, "Miguel! Francisco! Grab the Father and take cover!" Then he asked the sailors, "How's your ammo?"
The sailors took cover around a corner of a wall and one said, "I'm out!"
The other said, "Just a few rounds left!"
Tully grabbed two of the three extra clips he had and tossed one to each of the sailors. "Make 'em count!"
##################
Troy and Moffitt watched as the bombers appeared overhead and began to drop their bombs on the ships. The Germans in town quickly gave up the fight and ran for the beach as one destroyer took a direct hit. One of the two that were left was bringing its engines to life as a bomb hit the water right next to the ship, blowing a hole in its side while the third made a desperate, but futile attempt to get away.
Troy and Moffitt stood on the edge of town as the Germans ran towards the beach. Moffitt said, "Do they really think they can get away? There's nowhere to go."
A fighter dipped low and made a strafing run along the beach, killing most of the Germans that were there trying to slide a couple of the boats into the water.
Realizing there was no use in trying to hide at that point, the remaining Germans turned and put their hands in the air.
The townspeople cheered and helped to round up the prisoners.
Moffitt asked, "What about the men in the water?"
Troy looked up and saw the first of four Allied ships come into view. "We'll let the Navy pull them out."
Then the sound of shooting became evident. They looked towards the church and realized the fight wasn't over just yet. A German was tossed over the side of the landing, hitting the ground with a sickening bounce.
Troy and Moffitt ran towards the church, leaving the locals to tie up the prisoners and keep an eye on them.
After finding the doors locked, the sergeants made their way around to the back. They checked the radio shack, but only found one dead German on the floor.
Inside Troy and Moffitt found dead and gravely wounded Germans in the sanctuary. The only noise they could hear was coming from upstairs.
As they approached the stairs, a German tumbled down and landed at their feet. The soldier started to move and Troy kicked him in the head to finish what the fall started.
##################
Hitch was trapped in the bell tower with nothing to fight with but grenades as the Germans started up the stairs. He didn't want to use the grenades in the confined space and looked for a way out. He saw Father Aubry, Miguel, and Francisco standing below on the landing. Hitch yelled, "Father! Throw me the gun!"
Father Aubry looked up and Hitch, then at the machine gun in his hands. It was Francisco who grabbed the gun and with an almighty two-handed throw sent the weapon up into Hitch's hands in time for the private to turn and begin firing as the Germans started through the doorway.
Tully's only cover were the cannons themselves and bullets pinged off them as he returned fire.
As Troy and Moffitt carefully made their way up the stairs, another German fell and they moved over to let him tumble right on by. Just before reaching the doorway to the landing, they saw two Germans laying at the bottom of the stairs that continued up to the bell tower and suddenly another joined them.
Hitch was hurrying down the stairs as the sergeants got there. Things were suddenly quiet.
Troy called, "Tully?"
"Yeah, sarge, I'm here."
"Are you alone?"
Tully replied, "Father Aubry, Miguel, Francisco, and two sailors are here too. Hitch is upstairs."
Troy, Moffitt, and Hitch stepped through the doorway as the two sailors slid down the wall to sit on the floor.
Hitch found Tully on the floor leaning back against one of the cannons. "I came down as soon as I could, but I see you didn't need my help." He slowly lowered himself down to the floor and leaned on the next cannon over. "How's your leg?"
Tully looked at the blood soaking through the bandage and knew he'd made a mess of the stitches the woman on Fogo had carefully made to close the gash. "I have a feelin' Troy is gonna have my head. How's the ribs?"
Hitch gently rubbed the bandage that was still snuggly wrapped around his torso. "Not too bad at the moment, but once the adrenaline wears off I'm going to need some aspirin."
Troy stepped over and looked down at his two battered men. "You two going to live?"
Tully looked up at the sergeant and said, "If I promise to use those crutches, can I keep my head?"
Troy chuckled softly. "Yeah, I can't really blame you for this one. But I'm going to hold you to that promise."
Moffitt joined them as Troy helped Tully to his feet. "The Navy is picking up survivors and it looks like they're sending boats ashore."
Troy looked around as he handed Tully off to Moffitt and reached a hand down to Hitch. "Where did the others go?"
Moffitt put an arm around Tully as the private put his around the sergeant's shoulders. "Father Aubry, Francisco, and Miguel went to check on the women and children with Sister Sarai. I believe the two sailors went down to meet the incoming boats."
"I guess we're done here. Let's go check on our prisoners."
##################
When they got downstairs, Troy pushed the plank away and opened the big doors. Outside Moffitt helped Tully sit down on the front steps as Troy said, "You and Hitch stay here. Moffitt and I will check things out and meet our new guests."
A few minutes after Troy and Moffitt left Hitch and Tully, a good sized group of children ran out of the church followed by the women.
A minute later Father Aubry walked out holding a handkerchief to a small cut on the top of his head as Sister Sarai walked hurriedly beside him saying apologetically, "I am so sorry, Father! I didn't know it was you coming through the door! You should have announced yourself!"
Father Aubry stopped at the top of the steps and looked somewhat sourly at the woman now standing beside him still holding the heavy candlestick holder she'd struck him with.
Hitch asked, "What happened?"
The Father pointed at the slightly bent candlestick holder and said, "She hit me with that! I was going in to tell them the fighting was over … and when I walked in, she hit me!"
Sister Sarai quickly explained, "I had hurried the women and children into the dining hall hoping we would be safe. I heard the door to the west wing open … it has a terrible squeak. Then there were footsteps in the hallway. I stood next to the door with this candle holder and waited to see what would happen. When the door opened I hit him … but only because I didn't know it was him." She looked at the Father again. "I really am sorry."
Father Aubry sighed. "I know you are, Sister. It's just a bump on the head. I'll be fine as soon as I get some aspirin."
"There's a bottle in the kitchen. I'll just run and get it."
Sister Sarai disappeared back inside and Father Aubry sat down next to Tully as he said, "Next time the enemy comes knocking I'll stay with the women and children and let the Sister do the fighting."
##################
Troy and Moffitt saw that the German prisoners had been tied up and the local men now had rifles that were no doubt from Emilio's stash.
Troy said, "Tell you friends they did a great job today, Emilio. We couldn't have done it without all of your help."
Troy and Moffitt heard a voice behind them and turned. "I'm Commander Randell. Looks like you had your hands full today."
Troy nodded. "Yes, sir. I'm just glad the Airforce got here when they did. We couldn't have held on much longer."
Randell said, "We would've been here sooner, but I understand there was communication problems."
Moffitt said, "Yes, commander, the Germans had the radio frequencies jammed and we had to use a less used one to contact a base inland to get ahold of your people."
"Other than the two ensigns and you, are there any other survivors?"
Troy said, "There were no survivors from the British sub. I believe there are a few men from the PT-54 being cared for at the hospital."
Randell commented, "You two look pretty banged up, sergeant. Where are your men?"
Troy looked towards the church and said, "They're on the steps with Father Aubry. Pettigrew got a pretty bad laceration in his leg and from the looks of it the stitches were pulled out during the fight. Hitchcock has cracked ribs."
"We have a medical facility onboard. They'll be taken care of. Where are the rest of your men?"
"It's just the four of us, sir. We were on our way to meet a British sub when the Germans first attacked."
Randell looked around at the dead and wounded Germans. "The four of you and two wounded sailors did all this?"
Moffitt smiled. "There's more inside the church, sir. And it wasn't just us. The local inhabitants were of great assistance in the fight."
Commander Randell took his hat off and scratched his head as if he didn't believe what he'd been told. "It's hard to believe, but if you're telling me the story, it must be true." He put his hat back on and turned back to the sergeants. "Well, go get your men. I'll have a crew take you to the ship for treatment."
"I hate to leave the island's people to clean up the mess alone, sir."
"Don't worry about that, sergeant. I'll let Captain James know what's happened here and he can coordinate with the other captains. We won't leave here without giving these people some help."
Troy gave a nod. "Thank you, commander." He and Moffitt walked back to the church as Sister Sarai gave Father Aubry two aspirin and a cup of water. Troy said, "Well, Father, we'll be leaving now. Commander Randell is the one in charge. He's going to see to it you have whatever you need to clean things up around here. I'd like to thank you and the Sister for your help and hospitality."
Father Aubry sighed and put his hand out. "Forgive me for nod standing, sergeant. It's been a very tiring day."
Troy shook the outstretched hand and said, "I understand, Father."
"I would like to extend thanks on behalf to the people of Sao Tiago. If you and your men hadn't been here, we would have been lost to the Germans."
Moffitt smiled and shook the Father's hand. "From what I saw today I believe you could've handled the situation just fine."
##################
Troy walked into the ship's medical department after talking to Captain James. He looked around the sterile environment and saw Hitch and Tully sleeping in two of the lower bunks.
Moffitt was resting on another bunk and asked, "How did it go with the captain?"
Troy replied, "They're taking us to the base at Freetown in Sierra Leone. Our jeeps will be transferred from Senegal."
"What about our mission in Namibia?"
"I won't get a chance to report to Captain Boggs before we reach Freetown, but since we missed our contact in Namibia I imagine it's been scrubbed." Troy again looked at his two younger men and asked, "How are they doing?"
Moffitt smiled. "More exhausted than they'd admit. Hitch's ribs were checked, but x-rays will have to wait until we get to an onshore hospital. He did get rewrapped with a snug elastic bandage. Tully's leg was cleaned, sutured, and wrapped with a fresh bandage. He was also given, upon my request, pills for his seasickness. He lost his bottle when the PT boat went down. The doctor said both should recover nicely."
"How are you doing?"
"Tired beyond belief. The doctor gave me some codeine for the discomfort and told me to rest. How about you?"
Troy sat down on the nearest bunk with a sigh. "Sore. I feel like I could sleep for a week."
The doctor walked over with two tablets and a cup of water. "Take this codeine so you can rest."
After taking the pills, Troy said, "I think this was the hardest thing we've been through to date." He kicked his boots off and laid down. "I'm just glad it's over and we got out in one piece."
Moffitt said, "Alive to fight another day." But noticed that Troy was already relaxed in sleep and didn't hear the comment. He smiled and slid down to rest his head on the pillow. He too was asleep in seconds.