WAR BENEATH THE WAVES by Don Keith
Reviewed by PaleHorse
This book is a real page turner. Don Keith has done a fantastic job of relating the story of U.S. submarine warfare in the Pacific. Having read many books over the years about submarine warfare from the viewpoints of several nations, this book is among the best.
From page one, it is an interesting read. The take home message for me was how it dealt with the psychological aspects of this unique and very demanding form of warfare. From the commander who wisely chose to step down
and assume another role for his country and faced no disgrace, to the average seaman who may come apart under his first depth-charge attack, to the average seaman who performed his duty admirably under the most arduous circumstances, Don Keith tells their story of courage and raw strength with direct frankness that is nothing short of refreshing.
This book grabs the reader by the collar and makes one ask the question "how would I perform"? I recommend this book to all who wish to get a glimpse of what it was really like-both veterans and nonveterans alike. The reader is left with a vivid feeling for the frustration of defective ordnance and the conflict of old school tactics and failure of some to realize the nature and potential of the submersible ships.
Finally, "the silent service" receives the recognition it deserves for its contribution to eventual Allied victory. I think anyone interested in the war owes it to him/herself to pick up a copy. Favorite chapters for me include "Hooked!" and the "upset electrician's mate". This book would be entertaining in any event, but made all the better because it's true.
I give it a solid, unqualified double thumbs up. Read it and you'll never look at the dolphin insignia the same again.
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