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Back from the Deep summary
Brief summary
Back from the Deep by Carl LaVO is a gripping account of the USS Squalus and its remarkable rescue. It delves into the technology, human error, and heroism that led to this unprecedented submarine disaster and recovery.
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Back from the Deep
Summary of key ideas
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.
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What is Back from the Deep about?
Back from the Deep by Carl LaVO explores the incredible true story of the USS Harder, a submarine that was sunk during World War II and later salvaged from the depths of the ocean. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, the book delves into the daring mission to bring the submarine back to the surface and the remarkable efforts of the crew to preserve its legacy.
Back from the Deep Review
Back from the Deep (2000) is a captivating account of shipwrecks and rescues at sea that offers a unique perspective on human resilience and survival. Here's why this book is definitely worth your time:
- Explores dramatic maritime disasters and the incredible stories of survival against all odds, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
- Offers a deep dive into historical events with a focus on human courage and perseverance, making it both informative and emotionally compelling.
- With its narrative-driven approach and vivid descriptions, the book brings the sea adventures to life, ensuring an enthralling and engaging read.
Who should read Back from the Deep?
History enthusiasts who are curious about little-known stories from World War II
Naval enthusiasts who want to learn about the challenges and triumphs of submarine warfare
Readers interested in the technical and human aspects of undersea exploration and salvage operations
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Back from the Deep FAQs
What is the main message of Back from the Deep?
The main message of Back from the Deep is resilience and survival in the face of maritime disasters.
How long does it take to read Back from the Deep?
Reading Back from the Deep may take a few hours. The Blinkist summary offers a quick read in just a few minutes.
Is Back from the Deep a good book? Is it worth reading?
Back from the Deep is a gripping tale of human endurance, making it a compelling and worthwhile read.
Who is the author of Back from the Deep?
Carl LaVO is the author of Back from the Deep.
What to read after Back from the Deep?
If you're wondering what to read next after Back from the Deep, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Big Data by Viktor Mayer-Schönberger and Kenneth Cukier
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- The Signal and the Noise by Nate Silver
- You Are Not a Gadget by Jaron Lanier
- The Future of the Mind by Michio Kaku
- The Second Machine Age by Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee
- Out of Control by Kevin Kelly
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