Books matching: naval disasters
7 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Indianapolis: The True Story of the Worst Sea Disaster in U.S. Naval History and the Fifty-Year Fight to Exonerate an Innocent Man' by Lynn Vincent narrates the tragic events surrounding the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis, from its crucial role in World War II to its harrowing sinking by a Japanese submarine. The story delves into the ship's history, the circumstances leading to the disaster, the heroic acts of survival, and the subsequent fight for justice and exoneration of Captain McVay. The writing style is detailed, engaging, and meticulously researched, providing a gripping and emotional account of one of the darkest chapters in naval history.
On the cruiser’s bridge, Captain Charles McVay had the conn, with Admiral Raymond Spruance tracking the action from his high bridge chair. Both men wore khaki shirts, tieless, and soft garrison caps. ... - #2
Save:'Abandon Ship!' by Richard F. Newcomb is a gripping account of the tragic sinking of the USS Indianapolis during World War II. The book vividly describes the final voyage of the cruiser, its sinking, the crew's ordeal in the water, the incompetence on shore, and the controversial hearings and court martial that followed. Through detailed storytelling, the author sheds light on the harrowing experiences of the survivors, the Navy's failures, and the subsequent blame placed on the ship's captain, Captain Charles Butler McVay III. The narrative delves into the complexities of wartime decisions, the aftermath of the disaster, and the quest for justice amidst the chaos of war.
- #3
Save:The Circle by David Poyer is a naval thriller that follows the career progression of Ensign Dan Lenson on an obsolete US destroyer. The book delves into the challenges faced by the ship and its crew, including corruption, drug use, and internal conflicts among officers. The plot includes a gripping sequence of a Board of Inquiry, providing a realistic portrayal of military law. Poyer's writing style immerses the reader in the naval setting, with vivid descriptions of rough seas and authentic dialogue.
THIRTY feet below him the gray-green sea surged restlessly between splintered oak and painted steel. The water was murky, flecked with harbor scum. But at its surface, a thin slick of oil sliced the s...
(Also, see 6 recommendations for the series Dan Lenson ) - #4
Save:'Batavia's Graveyard: The True Story of the Mad Heretic Who Led History's Bloodiest Mutiny' by Mike Dash is a harrowing true account of a mutiny and shipwreck involving the Dutch East India Company's ship Batavia in the 17th century. The story unfolds on Beacon Island near Australia, where survivors faced barbaric rule and mass killings led by a charismatic but deranged ship's officer. Dash's writing style brings to life the dreadful descent into evil of the shipwrecked survivors, highlighting the flaws in human personalities that fueled the violent events.
Cornelisz came originally from Friesland, one of the most isolated and northerlyof the United Provinces. It was a place apart, largely rural and with borders so wellprotected by a dense barrier of pea... - #5
Save:Nimitz Class by Patrick Robinson is a gripping naval thriller that follows the story of an aircraft carrier being destroyed by an atomic weapon, leading to a high-stakes search for the culprits. The plot is dense with twists that maintain believability, featuring well-sustained tension and a convincing antagonist. The author's writing style excels in providing detailed descriptions of equipment, weapons, and naval jargon, making the story come to life for the readers.
IMAGINE NEW YORK’S EMPIRE STATE BUILDING, TURNED flat on its side, moving across the ocean at around thirty knots, a big, white bow-wave surging over its radio tower, and you have a good approximation... - #6
Save:'The Terrible Hours' by Peter Maas narrates the gripping and heroic true story of the rescue of the crew of the submarine Squalus in 1939 off the coast of New England. The story follows the disaster from both above the water and inside the submarine, providing a detailed account of the development of rescue equipment, particularly by Charles Swede Momsen. Maas skillfully recounts the events in a chronological order, from the submarine's ill-fated dive to the successful extraction of 33 men and the subsequent salvage operation, showcasing the fantastic effort of the rescuers. The narrative also pays tribute to Momsen's extraordinary dedication and perseverance in pioneering submarine rescue for the US Navy, highlighting the historical significance of the rescue attempt.
The author, Peter Maas, brings to life the terror, heroism, and courage surrounding the disaster and its outcome, focusing on the Squalus submarine and the visionary scientist and man of action, Charles Swede Momsen. Through a vivid and suspenseful narrative, Maas captures the tragic track record of prior submarine losses, the challenging salvage mission, and Momsen's pivotal role in innovating submarine rescue technology. not only tells the story of the heroic rescue but also delves into the background of deep-sea diving apparatus development and the fascinating career of Momsen, ultimately portraying the significance of this historical event in shaping the future of submarine rescue operations.
In London, Ambassador Joseph P. Kennedy advised an association of English tailors that they would never gain a foothold in the American market unless they stopped making trouser waistlines too high an... - #7
Save:'The Unknown Shore' by Patrick O'Brian is based on the true story of the wreck of the Wager off the coast of Chile. The central characters, Midshipman Jack Byron and surgeon's mate Tobias Barrow, find themselves stranded after the shipwreck and must navigate through dangerous historical environments in Chile to survive. The narrative provides a captivating seafaring story, depicting the crew's struggle for survival and their eventual journey to safety with the help of Indians in Valparaiso. sets the scene for the characters of Jack Aubrey and Stephen Maturin, who later became central figures in O'Brian's famous novels about the British navy during the Napoleonic Wars.
The story is described as compelling, well-researched, and realistically portrayed, making it a memorable read for those interested in historical naval adventures. O'Brian's writing style immerses readers in the harsh realities of life at sea in the Royal Navy in the 18th century, showcasing the iron discipline, hardships, and perils faced by sailors during that era. not only narrates the survival story of the crew but also reflects on the historical context of naval operations and the challenges encountered by seamen during that time.
(Also, see 3 recommendations for the series Golden Ocean )
