Navy Book Review: "In Harm's Way"

One of the iconic stories of World War II, is that of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis after delivering the first atomic bomb, “Little Boy” to Tinian. Doug Stanton tells this story in great detail through his book In Harm’s Way. Those who served in the U.S. Navy will recognize their own shipmates in Seamen First Class Ed Brown, Private McCoy, Captain McVay, and the rest of the crew while sympathizing with their sailing at short notice, on an unknown mission, while still in need of repair.

Stanton introduces the crew, and quickly moves past their important mission. He then tells the tale of brief combat, damage control, and finally survival at sea. Stanton’s writing makes the whole account very real. The reader is drawn into the water with men struggling merely to stay afloat, and is forced to flinch as he describes the infamous shark attacks. Additionally, one senses the loss as men who consumed seawater and go insane often drowning themselves while chasing apparitions.

Those who survive are rescued by the heroics of their fellow sailors, especially a seaplane crew who land on the water, turning their craft into a lifeboat for all they can find until the fleet is able to arrive and return them all to safety.

The story’s end is frustrating as it appears that Captain McVay is chosen as the culprit in order to save the careers of others. The captain of the Indianapolis becomes the only U.S. Navy commanding officer who is court martialed for losing his ship to enemy action.

Stanton’s book is an important read to understand the unforgiving nature of service at sea.

EOD Book Signing at Global EOD Conference

I'll be at the Global EOD Conference in Ft Walton Beach, FL at the EOD Memorial booth on 27-28 April to sign copies of "Proximity." Hope to see you there!

EOD Book Review: "Duty Status Whereabouts Unknown."

Jonathan Cody drew on his experience as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician to write a fun piece of fiction in “Duty Status Whereabouts Unknown.” The whole narrative follows Staff Sergeant John “Jack” Breuer, an EOD Tech who demonstrates that he is part MacGyver and part Rambo as he endures combat, captivity, and eventual escape and evasion. Cody accurately captures the banter between fellow soldiers, the visceral challenges of following the Code of Conduct while a prisoner of war, and most importantly, the unique skills of bomb disposal. As a fellow EOD Tech, I recommend this book.

Proximity recognized by a second award!

The American Author's Association recognized Proximity with a 2009 Silver Quill. Thanks AAA!

Thanks to WEODWF Polar Bear Plunge Participants!

Thanks to all those who came and participated in the Wounded EOD Warrior Foundation Polar Bear Plunge! All hands braved a cold and ripping current for a great cause. Thanks to the firefighters who kept everyone safe. Thanks to Det Dahlgren for thier static display. Hooya to "The Adams Family" for winning the costume co...ntest and to all the "Supermids" dressed only in speedos and "Blue-buddy" capes. Support WEODWF!