I am searching for information about my uncle, Seaman 2d Class, Mark John Koep, (pronounced "Kep"), from Minnesota, a crew member of the USS Canopus AS-9, submarine tender at Mariveles port, Bataan, Philipines in January 1942. 130 sailors from the Canopus and other on-shore Navy personnel, plus artillery members (used as infantry) of the 4th Marines were involved in the Battle at Longoskawayan Point. The engagement began shortly after a Japanese force landed at the point on January 23. My uncle was killed on the 24th or 25th reportedly from machinegun fire. A subsequent report by the captain of the Canopus (who was still onboard) stated that 7 members of his crew were killed in the fight. I am looking for anyone who might know anything about my uncles death and where the US casualties were buried. From what I've read, the crew members were wearing mustard yellow dyed navy uniforms in the battle-a failed attempt to dye them a less conspicuous color from their original white. Mark would have been a crack shot but certainly not trained for infantry. Any information would be greatly appreciated by his family! I served a tour in Vietnam in III MAF and 2 of my sons followed me into the corps (the oldest is still in and made port in Manilla aboard the Blue Ridge 2 years ago). Thank you very much. Richard
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