I don’t normally read books on war or military actions. I originally started to read this book because my mother’s brother is Paul Henry Carr. He died in this battle.
I remember hearing stories about him almost the whole time I was growing up. My grandmother would every once in a great while bring out his medals and show them to us grandkids. I think it made her proud and sad all at the same time. I remember a comic book about the battle that I believe was published by the Navy that she kept around the house. His sisters talked about him for many years like he had taken a trip to the coast and would be back soon. My Uncle Carr and the Battle of Samar is part of our family lore.
Until I read the book The Battle of Leyte Gulf I had no idea of the importance of this naval battle.
After reading “The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors” I have an additional appreciation of its value. I began the book for the reasons listed above. I finished the book for its gripping narrative. The author gives the reader a wonderful appreciation of the strategy and reasons for the battle. He gives an all too vivid description of the reality of modern naval warfare. His descriptions made me feel I was there and gave me new admiration for the “boys” who fought this battle and the willing sacrifices that they made. Much like “Jaws” his account of the time the survivors spent in the sea before being rescued will make me think twice before going into ocean.
I did not realize the politics that kept this battle from being a bigger part of Naval and WW II history until I read this book. That part I found sad and disturbing.
I would heartily recommend this book for understanding the historical value of this battle, the horror and heroism of war, and an understanding the personal sacrifice made by our relatives 60 years ago.
Or just because it is a good read.