For Crew and Country: The Inspirational True Story of Bravery and Sacrifice Aboard the USS Samuel B. Roberts
"Engaging and lively . . . A valuable addition to our understanding of the events that took place almost 70 years ago, and an inspirational story of devotion to duty and country." —Proceedings"This story of the brave and resourceful officers and crew of the gallantSamuel B. Robertsis one that should be read by every American. A thrilling story of self-sacrifice, of David versus many Goliaths, of a little war vessel with a paper-thin hull saluting, stepping up, and making a charge to death and glory. After I finished reading, I wanted to stand up and cheer. I still do."—Homer Hickam, #1New York Timesbestselling author ofTorpedo Junction,Rocket Boys/October Sky, andThe Keeper's Son"In this richly detailed book, John Wukovits provides unusual insight into the crew, the team—the family—of the USSSamuel B. Roberts. The human detail is drawn from wartime letters, secondary sources, and survivor interviews, resulting in a rare combination of research, exposition, and insight. From the tentative process of shaking down to deployment to the Pacific, to the soaring, searing reality of combat at Leyte Gulf, readers will come to know many of the 'Sammy B's' crew, celebrate their survival, and mourn their loss."—Barrett Tillman, author ofEnterprise: America's Fightingest Ship and the Men Who Helped Win World War II."John Wukovits writes with verve and command in this rousing tale of an epic battle. You'll marvel at the bravery of the men on a very small ship up against the main battle fleet of the Japanese Imperial Navy."—Evan Thomas,New York Timesbestselling author ofSea of ThunderandIke's Bluff"In this gripping page-turner, Wukovits chronicles one of the greatest stories in naval history, when tiny, outnumbered, outgunned destroyers and destroyer escorts went 'toe-to-toe' with Japanese battleships and cruisers, exhibiting courage that has rarely been equaled and never surpassed. One of those ships paid the ultimate price, but played a key role in turning the tide in this seemingly one-sided engagement. This is that ship’s incredible story."—Thomas J. Cutler, author ofThe Battle of Leyte Gulf"Despite the U.S. Navy’s huge contribution to allied victory in World War II, stories of individual ships and their crews have formed an oddly small niche in the American literature on the struggle. But if the niche is small, its quality glimmers with the works of authors like Edward Stafford and James Hornfischer. Now John Wukovits’ narrative of theSamuel B. Robertsjoins this illustrious company. From the building yard to the agonies of survivors pitted against an unforgiving sea, this outstanding account is a loving tribute to an immortal vessel and her heroic crew."—Richard B. Frank, author ofGuadalcanal: The Definitive Account of the Landmark BattleandDownfall: The End of the Imperial Japanese Empire