The Silence of a Soldier
The Memoirs of a Bataan Death March Survivor
Copyright © 2003 by William J. Duggan
Table of Contents
Hoten Pow Main Camp Mukden, Manchuria
This book is dedicated to Gertrude Merrill (nee Worfolk). This courageous woman remained loyal, loving, and hopeful during the long years of silence imposed on her beloved friend Bub, because of his imprisonment by the Japanese. This book is dedicated to all those courageous women who shared Gertrude’s travail. They waited, hoped, and prayed that their loved ones would return. In Gertrude’s case, her prayers were answered.
This book would not have materialized were it not for the complete cooperation of Smith (Bub) Merrill.
When I first approached Bub about writing his story, he was reluctant. He did not think his experiences were worth a story. Also, these events happened so long ago, he didn't think he could remember events accurately. It was the Internet that would refresh Bub's interest and memories. The exchanges between old comrades brought to life the many events that Bub had suppressed for so many years. When I approached him again, he was very responsive. I believe that Bub's story is worth telling.
It will bring to our minds an understanding of the suffering and sacrifices endured by these silent soldiers.
I want to thank Treg Merrill for her kind support. She assisted in maintaining accuracy. Her proof reading was invaluable. I thank also my wife, Barbara, who made sure my sentence structure and spelling were correct. I owe a debt of gratitude to Robert H. Curran who artfully crafted the maps. They add greatly to the story. In a category all his own, I thank David W. St. John, Editor of Elderberry Press. His patience, humor and suggestions were constantly helpful toward completion of this book.