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Deployment
Raised on a farm in Baltic, Connecticut, (near New London, "the submarine capital of the world"), Wilfred Zinavage joined the U.S. Navy at eighteen. Trained as an Aviation Electronics Technician, he became an air crew member and flew on the Navy's first nuclear bomber (the P2V-7 Neptune bomber). Hand-picked along with seventeen other specialists, he later became one of the Navy's first in-flight technicians on the world record-holding P3C aircraft. At the peak of his career, he was involved in several secret projects. He still suffers nightmares from his military experiences.
After his twenty-year military career, Zinavage retired back to his home with his young family. As a civilian and until he retired once again, he held many titles. He was a first aid instructor, actor, songwriter, biomedical technician, and armed nuclear security officer, Town Selectman and even a write-in candidate for Lieutenant Governor. He earned a college degree from Eastern Connecticut State University in general studies and lacked nine credits from becoming an electronic engineer. In his spare time, he became a TV show co-host on public cable access television and stays active with the Vietnam Veterans of America and the American Legion. He has authored books entitled, The Zinavage Legacy and Challenges.
After his twenty-year military career, Zinavage retired back to his home with his young family. As a civilian and until he retired once again, he held many titles. He was a first aid instructor, actor, songwriter, biomedical technician, and armed nuclear security officer, Town Selectman and even a write-in candidate for Lieutenant Governor. He earned a college degree from Eastern Connecticut State University in general studies and lacked nine credits from becoming an electronic engineer. In his spare time, he became a TV show co-host on public cable access television and stays active with the Vietnam Veterans of America and the American Legion. He has authored books entitled, The Zinavage Legacy and Challenges.
124 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 1, 2024
Wilfred Zinavage's 'Deployment' is a concise, insightful, and well-written historical novel set against the backdrop of the Cold War. Drawing from real events and populated by characters deeply rooted in reality, the novel centers around the crew of the United States Navy P2V-7 (SP2H) Neptune Patrol bomber.
Through the eyes of Roy Meade, a first-class naval petty officer and aviation electronics technician, Zinavage brings authenticity to the story, drawing from his own experiences in the U.S. Navy. The characters in the book are amalgamations of individuals the author served with.
The novel portrays the transition from civilian life to military bases during the crew's inaugural patrol mission, highlighting the solace found in camaraderie amidst austere living conditions. It sheds light on the paradoxical treatment of soldiers like nineteen-year-old Fred, trained for power abroad yet constrained upon their return, grappling with uncertainty and sacrifice.
The bonds of camaraderie are symbolized by shared moments over whiskey and cola, sexual encounters with women, and light banter, portraying the intertwined lives of soldiers. Despite the weight of wartime memories, the looming threat of nuclear attack, and the challenges of civilian reintegration, their resilience shines through.
I found 'Deployment' to be a captivating read, offering both insight and engagement. The authenticity of the dialogue and the vivid depiction of characters fostered a deep emotional connection with me. However, it's worth noting that the book is intended for mature audiences due to its profanity and explicit sexual content.
One of my favorite scenes depicts the arrival of American soldiers at the Freedom Hotel in Naples, their initial disheveled appearance contrasting with the luxurious accommodations they secure. Roy and Fred's humorous encounter with a bidet adds a touch of levity.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the Cold War from the perspective of those who lived through it. The firsthand experiences shared by authors like Zinavage offer compelling insight into the emotional and psychological impact of these historical events.
Through the eyes of Roy Meade, a first-class naval petty officer and aviation electronics technician, Zinavage brings authenticity to the story, drawing from his own experiences in the U.S. Navy. The characters in the book are amalgamations of individuals the author served with.
The novel portrays the transition from civilian life to military bases during the crew's inaugural patrol mission, highlighting the solace found in camaraderie amidst austere living conditions. It sheds light on the paradoxical treatment of soldiers like nineteen-year-old Fred, trained for power abroad yet constrained upon their return, grappling with uncertainty and sacrifice.
The bonds of camaraderie are symbolized by shared moments over whiskey and cola, sexual encounters with women, and light banter, portraying the intertwined lives of soldiers. Despite the weight of wartime memories, the looming threat of nuclear attack, and the challenges of civilian reintegration, their resilience shines through.
I found 'Deployment' to be a captivating read, offering both insight and engagement. The authenticity of the dialogue and the vivid depiction of characters fostered a deep emotional connection with me. However, it's worth noting that the book is intended for mature audiences due to its profanity and explicit sexual content.
One of my favorite scenes depicts the arrival of American soldiers at the Freedom Hotel in Naples, their initial disheveled appearance contrasting with the luxurious accommodations they secure. Roy and Fred's humorous encounter with a bidet adds a touch of levity.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the Cold War from the perspective of those who lived through it. The firsthand experiences shared by authors like Zinavage offer compelling insight into the emotional and psychological impact of these historical events.
May 1, 2024
It’s the 1960’s. America and the Soviets are in the middle of a decades-long period that would come to be known as The Cold War. While politicians rattle their sabers, soldiers on both sides of the conflict feel the everyday tension. That is undeniably the case for a group of Navy crewmen deployed in the Mediterranean Sea. They’re aboard the much-touted P2V-7 Neptune Patrol Bomber, the first of its kind. These seamen are tasked with anti-submarine intelligence gathering, and it’s grim yet vital work. Years later, the Navy would keep many of the incidents that took place on the vessel a closely guarded secret. This book pulls back the curtain on those events.
Deployment, by Wilfred Zinavage, is a historical fiction novel based on real events. The author makes a point of mentioning that while certain names, occurrences, and other details have been changed, this narrative remains within shouting distance of the truth.
Some readers will be reminded of the larger-than-life writing style of the late Tom Clancy. Others might find this novel reminiscent of onscreen epics like Das Boot or The Hunt for Red October. There’s plenty of machismo to go around, and Zinavage proves adept at delivering a military procedural brimming with human drama.
The crew of the P2V-7 Neptune are mostly good old boys, but, in many instances, their banter belies their intelligence. These are not brainless automatons wound up and sent teetering onto the battlefield. Their conversations about the conflict’s significance humanizes them, and their various perspectives are just as compelling as all the detail about operations, weapons systems, and the like.
The bad blood between the United States and the former Soviet Union still exists, and it’s helpful to look at where we’ve been to get some idea of where we might be going. Whether intentional by the author or not, this book reads like the preamble to today’s frosty relations between America and Russia. The outcome of the crisis taking place in the 1960s was far from certain, as this novel reveals. Much of what these crewmen talk about and fear is still sadly relevant in modern times.
Deployment, by Wilfred Zinavage, is a historical fiction novel based on real events. The author makes a point of mentioning that while certain names, occurrences, and other details have been changed, this narrative remains within shouting distance of the truth.
Some readers will be reminded of the larger-than-life writing style of the late Tom Clancy. Others might find this novel reminiscent of onscreen epics like Das Boot or The Hunt for Red October. There’s plenty of machismo to go around, and Zinavage proves adept at delivering a military procedural brimming with human drama.
The crew of the P2V-7 Neptune are mostly good old boys, but, in many instances, their banter belies their intelligence. These are not brainless automatons wound up and sent teetering onto the battlefield. Their conversations about the conflict’s significance humanizes them, and their various perspectives are just as compelling as all the detail about operations, weapons systems, and the like.
The bad blood between the United States and the former Soviet Union still exists, and it’s helpful to look at where we’ve been to get some idea of where we might be going. Whether intentional by the author or not, this book reads like the preamble to today’s frosty relations between America and Russia. The outcome of the crisis taking place in the 1960s was far from certain, as this novel reveals. Much of what these crewmen talk about and fear is still sadly relevant in modern times.
April 18, 2024
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not overly familiar with the proceedings and history of the Navy, which can sometimes make books like this feel just a bit harder to approach. That’s why I was pleasantly surprised by the humanistic perspective Zinavage chose to take. Rather than focusing on the big picture, he chooses to narrow down the story to that of just a few men, which makes it not only more approachable to begin with, but easier to follow in general. The lean on storytelling and character felt welcoming. Because Deployment only follows Fred and the rest of his crew, it gives the reader a valuable and personal insight on what life looked like for young men in the Navy during the Cold War.
Deployment is a great book for adults with an interest in Naval affairs and history, whether they’re overly familiar with the topic or not. It’s not at all hard to get into, and, once you get going, it’s difficult to put down. The characters are both comical and relatable, and I enjoyed reading about their daily lives. Seeing them overcome the struggles and pressures of being in the Navy while also portraying them as people can be a hard balance to find, but Zinavage manages with mostly grace. It did, at times, feel like there was a level of prior understanding that I just didn’t have, but it didn’t take away all that much from the story as a whole. I really felt like I learned a lot here, but without the information dumping that some other books in the genre struggle with. Wilfred Zinavage knows how to captivate his audience with relatable characters and informed storytelling, and I look forward to reading more of his works.
Deployment is a great book for adults with an interest in Naval affairs and history, whether they’re overly familiar with the topic or not. It’s not at all hard to get into, and, once you get going, it’s difficult to put down. The characters are both comical and relatable, and I enjoyed reading about their daily lives. Seeing them overcome the struggles and pressures of being in the Navy while also portraying them as people can be a hard balance to find, but Zinavage manages with mostly grace. It did, at times, feel like there was a level of prior understanding that I just didn’t have, but it didn’t take away all that much from the story as a whole. I really felt like I learned a lot here, but without the information dumping that some other books in the genre struggle with. Wilfred Zinavage knows how to captivate his audience with relatable characters and informed storytelling, and I look forward to reading more of his works.
April 23, 2024
In "Deployment," Wilfred Zinavage gives a glimpse into the lives of naval patrol squadron crews during the height of the Cold War. Set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea in the 1960s, Zinavage's story centers on the experiences of Fred and his fellow crew members aboard the Navy's first nuclear bomber, the P2V-7 Neptune Patrol Bomber. The book provides an insider's perspective on anti-submarine intelligence gathering, surveillance operations, and the camaraderie among the crew.
Zinavage's decision to focus on individual experiences rather than overarching historical events makes "Deployment" accessible and engaging, even for readers unfamiliar with naval affairs. The characters are relatable, and their daily struggles and triumphs are clearly portrayed. Despite occasional instances of crude humor, Zinavage skillfully captures the camaraderie that brought the crew together through dangerous missions.
One of the book's strengths is its descriptions, which vividly bring to life the settings and characters. While the detailed accounts occasionally slow the pacing, they also contribute to the immersive reading experience. Zinavage strikes a balance between technical terms and easy explanations, making sure that readers of all backgrounds can appreciate the narrative.
"Deployment" offers an exploration of the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who served during the Cold War. Through Zinavage's storytelling talents, readers gain a newfound appreciation for the courage and resilience of naval crews. Despite its occasional flaws, "Deployment" is a compelling read that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of military history.
Zinavage's decision to focus on individual experiences rather than overarching historical events makes "Deployment" accessible and engaging, even for readers unfamiliar with naval affairs. The characters are relatable, and their daily struggles and triumphs are clearly portrayed. Despite occasional instances of crude humor, Zinavage skillfully captures the camaraderie that brought the crew together through dangerous missions.
One of the book's strengths is its descriptions, which vividly bring to life the settings and characters. While the detailed accounts occasionally slow the pacing, they also contribute to the immersive reading experience. Zinavage strikes a balance between technical terms and easy explanations, making sure that readers of all backgrounds can appreciate the narrative.
"Deployment" offers an exploration of the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who served during the Cold War. Through Zinavage's storytelling talents, readers gain a newfound appreciation for the courage and resilience of naval crews. Despite its occasional flaws, "Deployment" is a compelling read that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of military history.
April 17, 2024
Through his personal experience, Wilfred Zinavage invites the reader to take an inside look at the life of a naval patrol squadron crew during the Cold War. The book has an honest and authentic feel, with generously detailed accounts of life both in the air and on land. Zinavage perfectly captures the heightened emotions experienced by the tight-knit crew as they navigate near-death situations and gruelling working conditions. The book creates a newfound appreciation for those who risked their lives in the Cold War.
Deployment is a story of contrasts, the most obvious being the crew’s ‘work hard, play hard’ attitude. Zinavage recalls wild nights in Italy and Spain. While humorous and entertaining, they do sometimes border on misogynistic and crude. However, few readers could fail to be touched by the unwavering camaraderie that pulled the crew through their darkest times.
Another stunning contrast is that of the manmade patrol bombers and their surroundings, including beautiful sunsets over the sea. Zinavage’s descriptive writing immerses the reader in each location the men visit. It can get a little lengthy at times, with the first quarter of the book spanning only a couple of days, but it is also interlaced with page-turning moments of tension and excitement.
Readers with no previous knowledge of aircraft and war systems shouldn’t be deterred from reading this book. The technical terms, jobs and secret missions are well explained in simple language. Deployment exceeded my expectations and I hope for a second book to follow up on the lives of the crew after integrating back into American society.
Deployment is a story of contrasts, the most obvious being the crew’s ‘work hard, play hard’ attitude. Zinavage recalls wild nights in Italy and Spain. While humorous and entertaining, they do sometimes border on misogynistic and crude. However, few readers could fail to be touched by the unwavering camaraderie that pulled the crew through their darkest times.
Another stunning contrast is that of the manmade patrol bombers and their surroundings, including beautiful sunsets over the sea. Zinavage’s descriptive writing immerses the reader in each location the men visit. It can get a little lengthy at times, with the first quarter of the book spanning only a couple of days, but it is also interlaced with page-turning moments of tension and excitement.
Readers with no previous knowledge of aircraft and war systems shouldn’t be deterred from reading this book. The technical terms, jobs and secret missions are well explained in simple language. Deployment exceeded my expectations and I hope for a second book to follow up on the lives of the crew after integrating back into American society.
May 5, 2024
Deployment by Wilfred Zinavage offers a compelling blend of action and adventure drawn from the author's experiences in the U.S. Army during the Cold War. Across 15 chapters, Zinavage excels in presenting a narrative that prioritizes the emotional and psychological landscape of his characters. This approach distinguishes the book from typical historical accounts, delivering a story that feels both personal and insightful without bogging the reader down with excessive historical detail. The narrative is informed and thoughtful, presenting a nuanced perspective on a pivotal era in American military history. The author’s skillful integration of personal anecdotes enhances the authenticity of the narrative, making the historical moments more relatable and engaging. Each character is uniquely crafted, bringing vitality and depth to the story, ensuring that it captures the reader's interest from beginning to end. The dialogue throughout the book not only enriches the character development but also contributes significantly to the enjoyment of the narrative, allowing readers to feel as though they are part of the crew's journey. Having read several books in this genre, I found Deployment particularly enjoyable for its effective storytelling and the way it seamlessly blends personal reflections with historical context. Wilfred Zinavage has indeed crafted a memorable and engaging book that stands out for its heartfelt delivery and vivid portrayal of life during a tense period in history.
May 7, 2024
"Deployment" by Wilfred Zinavage is a compelling journey through the life of a man shaped by military service. Zinavage's narrative captivates with its raw honesty, offering readers a glimpse into the highs and lows of a career marked by bravery and sacrifice. What sets this memoir apart is its unflinching portrayal of the aftermath of military life. Zinavage's candid admission of lingering nightmares adds a haunting layer to his story, reminding readers of the unseen burdens carried by veterans long after their service ends.
Beyond the military, Zinavage's foray into civilian life is equally riveting. His diverse roles, from first aid instructor to town selectman, paint a portrait of a man dedicated to service in all its forms. Through it all, Zinavage's resilience and unwavering commitment shine through, making "Deployment" not just a memoir, but a testament to the human spirit.
In "Deployment," readers will find themselves drawn into Zinavage's world, experiencing the triumphs and tribulations of a life lived with courage and conviction. Through detailed triumphs and tribulations of a life lived with courage and conviction, this memoir is a poignant and unforgettable testament to the human spirit and the enduring impact of service. Whether you're a veteran or simply curious about the realities of military service, this book offers a poignant and unforgettable journey.
Beyond the military, Zinavage's foray into civilian life is equally riveting. His diverse roles, from first aid instructor to town selectman, paint a portrait of a man dedicated to service in all its forms. Through it all, Zinavage's resilience and unwavering commitment shine through, making "Deployment" not just a memoir, but a testament to the human spirit.
In "Deployment," readers will find themselves drawn into Zinavage's world, experiencing the triumphs and tribulations of a life lived with courage and conviction. Through detailed triumphs and tribulations of a life lived with courage and conviction, this memoir is a poignant and unforgettable testament to the human spirit and the enduring impact of service. Whether you're a veteran or simply curious about the realities of military service, this book offers a poignant and unforgettable journey.
May 6, 2024
This narrative provides a rare glimpse into the experiences of servicemen aboard a submarine, delving into the challenges and daily realities of the silent service. Zinavage infuses the book with authenticity, drawing on his personal experiences. His compelling storytelling conveys the bravery, discipline, and camaraderie of those who serve beneath the waves, often unrecognized. The book is a tribute to these men, reflecting on an institution decommissioned over twenty years ago by the federal government. Through Zinavage’s eyes, we journey into a scarcely seen world, sparking emotions of desperation, sadness, and occasionally anger in its vivid depiction of submarine life. His narrative skillfully conveys the tension, anticipation, and subsequent relief upon surfacing, resonating with both veterans and civilians. Deployment is not only a captivating read but also an educational tool that bridges the gap between past and present military challenges, emphasizing the need for emotional and physical care for soldiers. This book is highly recommended for those interested in military history, submarine warfare, or Cold War politics, offering deep insights into the sacrifices of soldiers and the environments they endure.
April 17, 2024
‘Deployment’ is a book written about true events which occurred for the crew on the Navy’s first Nuclear bomber plane. This book was interesting and knowing that the events have occurred in some way, make the book even more gripping for the reader, but also a strange experience to read knowing it's not a fiction.
I found the book to be descriptive and would be a good read for anybody who is interested in historical writing. The author has used this book to write up his experiences from working in the military , and I think that this books makes it clear the sort of harrowing experiences he dealt with, but also affect him to this day.
I think this book is well written, and it will keep the reader gripped, it's informative and is written in a way you can picture the scenes of what the author will have seen during that time. I especially like how much detail there is in describing the scenery and individuals, I find it even more interesting for the reader to be able to try and imagine what the author went through.
I'd definitely recommend this book for those who are interested in historical events, that have occurred and want to have an interesting read.
I found the book to be descriptive and would be a good read for anybody who is interested in historical writing. The author has used this book to write up his experiences from working in the military , and I think that this books makes it clear the sort of harrowing experiences he dealt with, but also affect him to this day.
I think this book is well written, and it will keep the reader gripped, it's informative and is written in a way you can picture the scenes of what the author will have seen during that time. I especially like how much detail there is in describing the scenery and individuals, I find it even more interesting for the reader to be able to try and imagine what the author went through.
I'd definitely recommend this book for those who are interested in historical events, that have occurred and want to have an interesting read.
May 4, 2024
Very interesting.
Admittedly, as someone unfamiliar with naval life, I approached this book with a measure of detachment. Yet, I found a connection to the narrative, drawn in by its focus on a close-knit group of individuals navigating extraordinary circumstances. The book does a remarkable job of blending detailed information with accessible explanations, offering insights into the sacrifices and trials faced by Marines. It's a narrative that resonates deeply with those familiar with military life, though its appeal is not limited to that audience. The author's talent shines in the ability to intertwine humor with gravitas, crafting a narrative that is as enlightening as it is engaging. While a background in military terms might enhance the reading experience, the book remains a compelling exploration of human resilience and camaraderie. Deployment stands out as a particularly enriching read, one that held my attention from start to finish and left me thoroughly impressed.
Admittedly, as someone unfamiliar with naval life, I approached this book with a measure of detachment. Yet, I found a connection to the narrative, drawn in by its focus on a close-knit group of individuals navigating extraordinary circumstances. The book does a remarkable job of blending detailed information with accessible explanations, offering insights into the sacrifices and trials faced by Marines. It's a narrative that resonates deeply with those familiar with military life, though its appeal is not limited to that audience. The author's talent shines in the ability to intertwine humor with gravitas, crafting a narrative that is as enlightening as it is engaging. While a background in military terms might enhance the reading experience, the book remains a compelling exploration of human resilience and camaraderie. Deployment stands out as a particularly enriching read, one that held my attention from start to finish and left me thoroughly impressed.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews