Back from the Deep summary

The Mysterious Disappearance of Two Submarines

In Back from the Deep by Carl LaVO, we are introduced to the USS Robalo and the USS Flier, two submarines that mysteriously vanished during World War II. The author takes us through the events leading up to their disappearances, the search efforts, and the eventual discovery of their fates.

The USS Robalo was on its second war patrol in July 1944 when it failed to return to port. LaVO paints a vivid picture of the anxiety and frustration experienced by the crew's families and the U.S. Navy as they searched for the missing submarine. Despite extensive search efforts, the Robalo was not found, and its 81-man crew was declared missing in action.

The USS Flier’s Tragic Fate

In a parallel narrative, Back from the Deep explores the USS Flier's ill-fated journey. The Flier, under the command of Lieutenant Commander John Crowley, was tasked with a mission to navigate a treacherous minefield in the Balabac Strait. Unfortunately, it struck a mine and sank, leaving only 14 survivors out of its 86-man crew. These survivors embarked on a harrowing journey, navigating through dangerous waters and hostile territories to reach safety.

LaVO's meticulous research and compelling storytelling bring the USS Flier's ordeal to life, capturing the crew's resilience and resourcefulness in the face of overwhelming odds. Their survival story is one of the most remarkable in naval history.

The Discovery of the Submarines

Decades after their disappearances, the wrecks of both submarines were discovered. In 1960, the Robalo was found off the coast of Palawan, Philippines, revealing that it had fallen victim to a Japanese mine. This discovery brought closure to the families of the Robalo crew, shedding light on the submarine's tragic fate.

Similarly, in 2009, the wreck of the USS Flier was located in the Balabac Strait. This finding confirmed that the Flier had indeed struck a mine, validating the accounts of the survivors. While the discovery did not change the past, it provided a sense of closure to the families and honored the memory of the Flier's crew.

Reflections on the Submarines' Legacies

As Back from the Deep nears its conclusion, LaVO reflects on the legacies of the Robalo and the Flier. He pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the submariners who served on these vessels, acknowledging the immense risks they faced and the pivotal roles they played in the war effort.

In closing, Back from the Deep is not just a historical account of two submarines lost at sea; it is a poignant tribute to the men who served on them. Through LaVO's meticulous research and engaging narrative, the story of the Robalo and the Flier is preserved, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.