BONUS: This edition includes an excerpt from James D. Hornfischer’s Neptune’s Inferno. “This will be a fight against overwhelming odds from which survival cannot be expected. We will do what damage we can.” With these words, Lieutenant Commander Robert W. Copeland addressed the crew of the destroyer escort USS Samuel B. Roberts on the morning of October 25, 1944, off the Philippine Island of … off the Philippine Island of Samar. On the horizon loomed the mightiest ships of the Japanese navy, a massive fleet that represented the last hope of a staggering empire. All that stood between it and Douglas MacArthur’ s vulnerable invasion force were the Roberts and the other small ships of a tiny American flotilla poised to charge into history.
In the tradition of the #1 New York Times bestseller Flags of Our Fathers, James D. Hornfischer paints an unprecedented portrait of the Battle of Samar, a naval engagement unlike any other in U.S. history—and captures with unforgettable intensity the men, the strategies, and the sacrifices that turned certain defeat into a legendary victory.
more
These men were incredible….and so young! Those of us living today should thank God every day for the sacrifices of our men and women at arms.
This brought to life the horror and heroism and tragedy of naval warfare in the Pacific during WW 2. Having lived through period, albeit as early teenager, I feel a special respect for all who served. This book made them live again.
Being a Vietnam era Navy veteran, I felt a connection with the sailors on the ships. It was very informative about just what went on during this season battle. The writing was fantastic, felt like I could see what was happening. The death and destruction was terrible, but real. If you enjoy learning about real sea battles and the people who went …
A well-done documentary account of a relatively unknown battle.
Excellent description of events
I lived during WWII and my husband was in route to Japan when rerouted to this location after Japan surrendered/
A grim and realistic picture of what sea battles are really like.
A harrowing story off a huge WW2 naval battle I’d never heard of. Fascinating.
Very realistic. I was stationed on a destroyer.
All the above: anyone interested in WW2 Naval battles in the Pacific Must read this account of one sea battle of the (many) Battles of Leyte Gulf. Wonderfully written, researched, with many first-hand narratives from the naval personnel on the ships, planes and rescue boats included. A true account with full follow up. 5 star all the way!
Great book. Informed me about a very valient effort by a small destroyer force against a larger Japanese force with the worlds largest battleship.
It was a good book.
Perfect example of all tactical plans for battle are suddenly uncertain when the first gun goes off.
Heroic. American history that remembers the story. Incredible read and a must for all who love naval lore.
If you like Navy and WWII this is a must read that is very informative!
A well documented account of wartime conflict during WWII.
Fascinating to read the Tin Cans taking on the Japanese Armada.
Interesting but repetitive. The sailors and officers were really heroic.
Well researched informative book.
Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors is a well written and a well told story of a WWII battle I have never read about. It takes a while to set the stage, but then the action is seemingly non-stop. I highly recommend it.