Survivors of torpedoed ship speaking in NY City during World War II

Joseph Kerrigan recounts an early morning attack on his ship by a lone plane, resulting in a massive explosion. After floating for an hour, he and his crew were rescued and taken to a port where they were cared for. They were given another ship and prepared to continue their mission.

How long did they wait before being picked up by a rescue ship?

What did they receive after landing at the port?