The riveting story behind the submarines that wreaked havoc
during World War II-from the award-winning author of In the Course
of Duty
During World War II, the U.S. Navy's submarine service suffered
the highest casualty percentage of all the American armed forces,
losing one in five submariners. But despite the odds, these
underwater warriors accounted for almost 60 percent of Japanese
shipping losses, and were a major factor in winning the war. 16
U.S. submarines-and one German U-Boat-that saw action during WWII
are now open to the public. Most have been restored and
authentically equipped. Final Patrol takes a fascinating look at
these subs and the personal stories of the brave sailors who lived,
fought, and often died in them. Now, visitors can climb into these
cramped steel cylinders, peer through their torpedo tubes, and
imagine diving under the sea-perhaps for the last time-to stalk a
fanatical enemy who threatened our nation's freedom.