Sinbad of the Coast Guard

by George F. Foley Jr., George Gray (Illustrator), Michael G. Walling (Introduction)

This is the adventurous, true story of Sinbad, mascot of the Coast Guard Cutter Campbell during World War II, whose exploits became legend. Although famous to thousands of people in many nations, Sinbad was happiest at sea, treading the decks of the sleek Campbell, where he was treated as just another member of the crew. He slept and ate his chow with the men and even had his own battle station. Battles and hurricanes never dulled his love of standing on the heaving deck with spray breaking over his wiry body. To Coast Guardsmen on the Campbell and all over the world he was real hero. This new edition, the first in 60 years, includes photos of Sinbad and an introduction by Mike Walling, author of Bloodstained Sea, The U.S. Coast Guard in the Battle of the Atlantic 1941-1944.

Genres: History

157 pages, Hardcover

First published June 30, 2005

Reviews

[John Bohnert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found life aboard the Coast Guard cutter, at sea and in port, more interesting than the exploits of its mascot.

[Christopher · Rating 3 out of 5]

Even though I'm a retired Coast Guardsman, I didn't know much about Sinbad, the mascot aboard the USCGC Campbell during the World War II years and beyond. That changed after reading this book of his shipboard life and adventures, written by George Foley in 1945.

Sinbad was this country's most famous dog. Of course, I'm biased. However, unlike other famous dogs-not mentioning any names-Sinbad's exploits happened in real life, mostly during the stress of wartime. What other dog earned and wore proudly on his collar, five war ribbons and four battle stars? What other dog embarked on a tour of the United States as a national hero? What other canine was given a ticker tape parade through the streets of Manhattan, held press conferences and personally signed copies of his biography with a paw print? Campbell crewman Seaman Nick Stepich, would say about being in battle, “The main thoughts were that you were pretty much closer to God than at any time in your life - God and Sinbad.”

Sinbad served for eleven years on the Campbell before retiring to Station Barnegat Light in New Jersey. He provided morale to the crew, caused some international incidents (not unexpected of a sailor), and bravely faced foreign and canine enemies. These accounts are provided in an entertaining and easy-t0-read style, are true, and give a good sense what it was like to be aboard a fighting ship at sea during wartime. Sinbad is part of the Coast Guard's proud history. I'm looking forward to reading more about him and visiting his grave someday.

[Stephanie Harv · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found out about Sinbad this year after visiting the bar he “frequented” in his retirement and seeing his photo everywhere. After a deep dive on his exciting life, I had to read this book! What an icon, and so cute to boot.

For context, this book was published in 1945- WWII is not over, Sinbad is very much alive, and he is truly a mascot for the US Coast Guard. I’m not sure if this was a YA book or just a light read for the time period, but some of the writing just did not hold up for me. A little too cutesy and propaganda-y (is that a word?).

However, the details about life on the ship, the action that the cutter Campbell saw, and just talking about what life was like at that time: fascinating!

So overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read, I still adore Sinbad, and have even more of an appreciation for the sacrifices that were made during wartime. This should be optioned as a Sinbad movie!

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I lovedit! What a wonderful story about the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Campbell's mascot Sinbad. The crew of the Campbell adopted Sinbad and eventually Sinbad became a full member of the Coast Guard. He was even pawprinted! The entire crew treated Sinbad as one of the crew, which he certainly was. Sinbad reached the rank of Chief Petty Officer Dog (K9C), U.S. Coast Guard. He had his own bunk, uniform, life jacket, and everything that a sailor on board a ship during World War II. A most excellent story for anyone to read!