CHANG-YUNG

Yung Chin Chang was a Chinese immigrant who enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the 1930s.  Although biographical information concerning him is quite limited, it is recorded that he was born in China, possibly at Hangkow, and served aboard the USS LUZON, a gunboat built for service in China on the Yangtze River which served as the flagship of the Yangtze River Patrol in the late 1930s.  In November 1941, because of the deteriorating diplomatic situation in China, LUZON was ordered to the Philippines where she operated from Manila assisting in the defense of Bataan and Corregidor during the early days of World War II.  When surrender to Japanese forces appeared imminent, LUZON was purposely scuttled on May 8, 1942, in Manila Bay to prevent her capture.  It appears that Chang was still aboard LUZON as records reveal he became a prisoner of the Japanese during World War II and was held as a POW at Cavite, Philippines.  Records indicate Chang also served on Guam and on Oahu, Hawaii, which was undoubtedly after his release from captivity.  Chang retired from active duty at an unknown date with the rate of Chief Steward.

Submitted by CDR Roy A. Mosteller, USNR (Ret)