These planes are so new they still bear their light gray factory paint jobs and carry no machine guns or sights. They would be repainted and put into fighting shape during the squadron's trip to Wake on the USS Enterprise . Exceptions deserve pointing out. . . . For once, the facts do not kill a fine story. University of Central Arkansas history professor Gregory J. W. Urwin's complete account, Facing Fearful Odds , is a complete success. . . .
Amateurs talk about strategy.
Professionals talk about logistics,' as the old Army saying goes. Urwin's book effectively shows how being a good mechanic is much better in modern war than fervor over Bushido or other macho concepts. And he shows how much plain hard work goes into being a hero. . . . Even readers weary of U.S. Marine boasting should be impressed. . . . Urwin describes it all well, including Japanese actions.