At Close Quarters

PT Boats in the United States Navy

By: Robert J. Bulkley, John F. Kennedy, Ernest McNeill Eller

Narrated by: Mike Chamberlain

Small though they were, PT boats played a key role in World War II, carrying out an astonishing variety of missions where fast, versatile, and strongly armed vessels were needed. Called "weapons of opportunity", they met the enemy at closer quarters and with greater frequency than any other type of surface craft. Among the most famous PT commanders was John F. Kennedy, whose courageous actions in the Pacific are now well known to the American public. The author of the book, another distinguished PT boat commander in the Pacific, compiled this history of PT-boat operations in World War II for the US Navy shortly after V-J Day, when memories were fresh and records easily assessable.

Bulkley provides a wealth of facts about these motor torpedo boats, whose vast range of operation covered two oceans as well as the Mediterranean and the English Channel. Although their primary mission was to attack surface ships and craft close to shore, they were also used effectively to lay mines and smoke screens, to rescue downed aviators, and to carry out intelligence and raider operations. The author gives special attention to the crews, paying well-deserved tribute to their heroism, skill, and sacrifice that helped to win the war.

Public Domain (P)2018 Tantor

One Of The Best I've Read

Okay, one of the best I've ever listened to, not literally read.
Time flew by while listening to the 18+ hours of this book, my interest never flagged, it was over too soon. It's in my queue to listen again, and I'd consider buying the hardcover if I found it used.
Mike Chamberlain's narration is excellent.

a history

if you are interested in PT boats as I am you will probably like this. the author tries to give us as complete a history of the boats as possible.

Great info. Terribly dry

Dry and monotone
But good info is included
Stuff i never knew about
If you can deal with dry delivery, this is for you.

Outstanding history

This factual book is an outstanding history of US Navy WWII PT boats. A must listen for maritime warrior enthusiast.

Hard to Follow

I found the information about the boats, crews, tactics, and strategies to be very interested.

Then when I got to the actual battles, it became extremely monotonous. Basically the same battle reports told over & over.