There WAS a successful appendectomy performed by a Corpsman in WWII, aboard a Sub in the Sea of Japan. (I think Corpsmen were referred to as “Pharmacist’s mates” in those days.)
The skipper submerged to a depth of over 200 feet, to provide a stable platform. The surgery was performed using bent spoons & forks as retractors. The patient survived, however the corpsman was charged (Unsuccessfully) for performing a procedure for which he had no training!
He was awarded a medal for saving his shipmate’s life a few years back. The U.S. Naval Institute may have more info. That’s where I saw the story.
LC
Corpsman and Pharmacist Mate are two completely different ratings.