Chapter 4: The Summer of '42 - Ascension's Transformation
The summer of 1942 was a time of transformation for Ascension Island. As I stood on the edge of Wideawake Field, watching the sun rise over the volcanic landscape, I could feel the island coming alive with activity. The Engineers of the 38th Engineer Combat Regiment had been here since March, and their work was beginning to take shape.
"Collins, we need to get moving," Martinez called out, his voice cutting through the morning calm. "Today's the day we finish the command complex."
I nodded, grabbing my gear and following him to the construction site. The command complex, dubbed "Command Hill," was a marvel of engineering, with tiles imported from Recife and a panoramic view of the island. It was here that Colonel Ross O. Baldwin, commanding the 91st Infantry Regiment, would oversee the island's defenses.
As we worked, the sound of hammers and saws filled the air, mingling with the constant shriek of the wideawake terns. The island was a hive of activity, with men from the 28th Coast Artillery and various support units bustling about. Anti-tank and anti-aircraft guns were being positioned at potential landing points, and machine guns were set up to defend against any unexpected visitors.
The airfield itself was a critical component of our operations. Aircraft from Brazil would stop here to refuel before continuing their journey to North Africa. It was a logistical lifeline, and we were its guardians. I watched as a C-47 landed, its passengers rushing to refuel and grab a quick meal before taking off again. Sometimes, the layovers were as short as 40 minutes, just enough time for the plane to refuel while the personnel got something to eat at the nearby mess hall.
"Martinez, look at this," Roberts said, approaching us with a newspaper in hand. "The Allies are landing in North Africa. This changes everything."
Martinez raised an eyebrow. "Means more traffic for us. Better be ready."
As the days passed, the airfield saw increased activity. Planes came and went, each one a vital link in the chain of supply and communication. We worked tirelessly to ensure that every aircraft could take off safely, knowing that the fate of men and supplies hung in the balance.
One evening, as we were wrapping up our duties, a PBY Catalina maritime patrol aircraft landed, its crew looking weary but relieved. "Had a close call with a German sub," one of them said, shaking his head. "Thought we were done for."
Martinez nodded sympathetically. "Welcome to Ascension. You're safe now."
The incident was a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the waters around us. German U-boats were becoming more aggressive, and our vigilance was crucial. The island's gunners were on high alert, ready to respond to any threat.
As the summer wore on, the island's infrastructure continued to grow. Roads were being constructed, and medical facilities were being built. The sanatorium, known as the "175," became a beacon of hope for those injured or ill. It was a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the men who called Ascension home.
One night, as we stood watch, the radio crackled to life. "Wideawake Field, this is Central Command. Be advised, we've had reports of increased German U-boat activity. Eyes open."
Martinez's expression turned grim. "Collins, take the binoculars and start at three o'clock. We can't afford to miss anything."
I scanned the horizon, the night-vision lenses casting an eerie green glow over the waves. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the occasional call of a wideawake tern. It was moments like these that reminded us of our isolation and the importance of our role.
As the night wore on, the tension remained high. We were the first line of defense against an enemy that could strike at any moment. But we were not alone; the AVDF, the Ascension Volunteer Defense Force, was training alongside us, their cooperation and camaraderie a source of strength.
The summer of '42 was a time of transformation for Ascension Island, but it was also a time of unity and purpose. We were here to defend a vital link in the Allied chain, and we would do whatever it took to keep it secure.
We would do whatever it took to keep it secure.