Gallant Lady : The Biography of the USS Archerfish

Rating:
Summary: Gallant Lady
Review: "Rollicking" is probably the term Hollywood would use, and probably such a movie from the latter part of this book would be a hit. There is little question of the drama of ARCHERFISH wartime patrols and her singular distinction in stalking and sinking the world's largest enemy ship on its maiden voyage. Like many other accounts of submarine warfare, GALLANT LADY vividly describes the stuffy quarters, grimy tension, and grim excitement of WWII submarine life. Where the book becomes unusual is in the story of ARCHERFISH's third commission as auxiliary to a modernized fleet in which she has become an anachronism. Not intimidated by her diminishing status, she forges her own direction for the next ten years, embracing with gusto a series of routinejobs and a unique assignment that no other ship can be spared for. In the process her maverick (and envied) crew lives an experience of exploration, adventure, and hi-jinks worthy of the sea sagas of earlier centuries. No other commissioned ship of the Navy has enjoyed such a voyage, and no others are likely to. This is a fascinating tale of camaraderie and initiative in service to our country that belongs in every seafarer's locker. Frank S. Virden, Captain, USN (Ret.)

Rating:
Summary: Bit Player
Review: Gallant Lady traces the history of a remarkable "boat" from its WWII pinnacle with the sinking of Japanese super-carrier Shinano to the final Cold War mission.

This latter segment of the story is told from the 'rag hat' perspective and gives insights that are informative, entertaining and funny as hell.

Rating:
Summary: Truth outdoes fiction!
Review: No better review of this book than what the writer has written on page twelve Of the preface: Like Forrest Gump or Woody Allen's Zelig, Archerfish had a knack for edging herself into the frame whenever history was being photographed. And the lucky reader is taking along on this awesome read.

Rating:
Summary: Beyond Test Depth
Review: No better review of this book than what the writer has written on page twelve Of the preface: Like Forrest Gump or Woody Allen's Zelig, Archerfish had a knack for edging herself into the frame whenever history was being photographed. And the lucky reader is taking along on this awesome read.

Rating:
Summary: A truly fun read
Review: well! I am fortunate that my dad could verify all the facts of this one, but for those of you who don't know... keep reading! Anyone who ever thought the Submarine Service was boring, you will get quite an education! And for those who who thougt their "old man" was telling "tall tails", I wish my life was that exciting!
Great job, Don, and thanks! I'll see you at the book signing!
Julie Carter (Doc's daughter) (a true navy brat)

Rating:
Summary: Navy brats pay attention!
Review: well! I am fortunate that my dad could verify all the facts of this one, but for those of you who don't know... keep reading! Anyone who ever thought the Submarine Service was boring, you will get quite an education! And for those who who thougt their "old man" was telling "tall tails", I wish my life was that exciting!
Great job, Don, and thanks! I'll see you at the book signing!
Julie Carter (Doc's daughter) (a true navy brat)

Rating:
Summary: Truth outdoes fiction!
Review: What a great book! "Run Silent, Run Deep", "Operation Petticoat", "McHale's Navy" come to life. The big difference is "Gallant Lady" is all true! As the old saying goes, "sometimes truth is stranger than fiction...." This is a great read and highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a good book.