This morning after breakfast, we were put in cars. Our baggage limited to 2 pieces was put in trunks and all taken
to Hosp. # 1. The road was a terrible sight; Filipino refugees carrying what they could being herded N., Philippine Army and our men being marched to Mariveles – sick, wounded and dead all along the road. Japanese army everywhere on foot, in trucks, horse drawn Art., pack trains, everything. We hung around Hosp. # 1 all day. I had a chance and weight 126 with uniform, pretty thin, no food.
At about 5:00 P.M. we were told to get in our cars. About 12 or 14 in all, as we had been joined by Gen. Weaver (Tanks) and his staff. We were cautioned to keep closed up and started north. The road was a mess. No traffic control. We were constantly stopped by traffic jams. Japanese soldiers would make us dismount, start to search us or take our car. We were saved by our Japanese Officer once. I was made to get out with my hand baggage and started for the jungle. I stalled all I could all but too late. I was rescued by the Officer who came back to see what the trouble was. A close call. So passed the early part of the night. We were constantly passing all kinds of troops. About 12:00 P.M. we arrived at Balonga, where some Hq. was evidently located. Here we were searched and counted. All razors, flash lights, cameras, scissors, nail files, some money depending on the searcher were taken. We were here given an indication of what our future treatment was to be. Finally, we were loaded up and started again to where we were not told. The road by this time was deserted, and the weather clear with brilliant stars overhead. Had our ride been under different conditions, it would have been a pleasure. Temporary bridges were witness of our efficient Eng troops.