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Undersea Warrior: The World War II Story of "Mush" Morton and the USS Wahoo
No man above or below the waves was as admired-or feared-as this determined naval commander...
Among submariners in World War II, Dudley "Mush" Morton stood out as a warrior without peer. At the helm of the USS "Wahoo" he completely changed the way the sea war was fought in the Pacific. He would relentlessly attack the Japanese at every opportunity, going through his supply of torpedoes in record time on every patrol. In only nine months, he racked up an astounding list of achievements, including being the first American skipper to wipe out an entire enemy convoy single-handedly.
Here, for the first time, is the life and legend of a heroic, dynamic, and ultimately divisive submarine commander who fought the war on his own terms, and refused to do so any other way.
Among submariners in World War II, Dudley "Mush" Morton stood out as a warrior without peer. At the helm of the USS "Wahoo" he completely changed the way the sea war was fought in the Pacific. He would relentlessly attack the Japanese at every opportunity, going through his supply of torpedoes in record time on every patrol. In only nine months, he racked up an astounding list of achievements, including being the first American skipper to wipe out an entire enemy convoy single-handedly.
Here, for the first time, is the life and legend of a heroic, dynamic, and ultimately divisive submarine commander who fought the war on his own terms, and refused to do so any other way.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2011
124 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Don Keith
71 books56 followersAward-winning and best-selling author of more than 40 published works, Don Keith was born in 1947 and has lived in the South all his life. He attended the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa where he received his degree in broadcast and film communication with a minor in English and literature. While working as a broadcast journalist, he won awards from the Associated Press and United Press International for news writing and reporting. He was also the first winner of Troy State University's Hector Award for innovation in broadcast journalism. As an on-the-air broadcaster, Don won the Billboard Magazine "Radio Personality of the Year" in two formats, country and contemporary. Keith was a broadcast personality for over twenty years in Birmingham and Nashville, and also owned his own consultancy, co-owned a Mobile, Alabama, radio station (WZEW-FM), and hosted and produced several nationally syndicated radio shows.
His first novel, THE FOREVER SEASON, was published by St. Martin's Press in the fall of 1995 to commercial and critical success. It called heavily on Keith's own athletic and academic experiences. Reviewers praised its unique approach and powerful story. The novel won the Alabama Library Association's "Fiction of the Year" award in 1997, joining works likewise honored from Harper Lee and others, and was re-issued in the fall of 2002 by the University of Alabama Press as part of its prestigious Deep South Books series.
He has written both fiction and non-fiction, including several books on WWII history, biographies, and military thrillers. His co-written thriller, HUNTER KILLER, was the basis for the hit movie starring Gerard Butler and Gary Oldman.
His first novel, THE FOREVER SEASON, was published by St. Martin's Press in the fall of 1995 to commercial and critical success. It called heavily on Keith's own athletic and academic experiences. Reviewers praised its unique approach and powerful story. The novel won the Alabama Library Association's "Fiction of the Year" award in 1997, joining works likewise honored from Harper Lee and others, and was re-issued in the fall of 2002 by the University of Alabama Press as part of its prestigious Deep South Books series.
He has written both fiction and non-fiction, including several books on WWII history, biographies, and military thrillers. His co-written thriller, HUNTER KILLER, was the basis for the hit movie starring Gerard Butler and Gary Oldman.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 9, 2020
Mush Morton , never heard of him until Janruary . This guy was insane , the good insane, the brave insane, the kind of insane that mesmerizies people and causes them fight to the death for you .
He was a hero in the true sense of what a hero is . He set the trend in submarine warfare aganist Japan , this one guy in my opinon contributed more than any one single man during WW2 towards ending it .
Read This Book
He was a hero in the true sense of what a hero is . He set the trend in submarine warfare aganist Japan , this one guy in my opinon contributed more than any one single man during WW2 towards ending it .
Read This Book
December 1, 2011
“Undersea Warrior” by Don Keith, published by Caliber.
Category – Military/World War II
This book is about the “Silent Service”, and the exploits of a daring Naval Officer and his submarine, the USS Wahoo.
The Japanese bombing at Pearl Harbor awakened a sleeping giant, until this time submarines were used mostly for coastal patrol and reconnaissance; they very seldom actively engaged the enemy.
After Pearl Harbor a young and brash naval officer, Dudley “Mush” Morton changed the entire role of the submarine service. He and his crew actively took on the enemy and were responsible for some of the more daring exploits during World War II. Mush was the first to use a “head to head” shot, firing a torpedo at a ship coming directly at his sub. He was adamant in his condemnation of faulty torpedoes, and several times thought he had ended his naval career due to his outspoken criticism.
Mush also had a deep hatred for the enemy. He was considered a criminal by some of his colleagues when after sinking a Japanese ship, instead of picking up survivors, he ordered them shot. This led to some thinking that he was a madman.
Even with all the controversy surrounding him, he was loved by his crew and all of his officers went on to stellar careers in the submarine service. One of his officers, Dick O’Kane, led the most successful patrol of World War II.
Mush is remembered at the Naval Academy and several other Naval Installations by having buildings named after him. He single handedly changed the way of submarine warfare in the Pacific.
A fascinating book, especially for those who served in the Armed Forces, but even more so for those who served and serve aboard submarines.
Category – Military/World War II
This book is about the “Silent Service”, and the exploits of a daring Naval Officer and his submarine, the USS Wahoo.
The Japanese bombing at Pearl Harbor awakened a sleeping giant, until this time submarines were used mostly for coastal patrol and reconnaissance; they very seldom actively engaged the enemy.
After Pearl Harbor a young and brash naval officer, Dudley “Mush” Morton changed the entire role of the submarine service. He and his crew actively took on the enemy and were responsible for some of the more daring exploits during World War II. Mush was the first to use a “head to head” shot, firing a torpedo at a ship coming directly at his sub. He was adamant in his condemnation of faulty torpedoes, and several times thought he had ended his naval career due to his outspoken criticism.
Mush also had a deep hatred for the enemy. He was considered a criminal by some of his colleagues when after sinking a Japanese ship, instead of picking up survivors, he ordered them shot. This led to some thinking that he was a madman.
Even with all the controversy surrounding him, he was loved by his crew and all of his officers went on to stellar careers in the submarine service. One of his officers, Dick O’Kane, led the most successful patrol of World War II.
Mush is remembered at the Naval Academy and several other Naval Installations by having buildings named after him. He single handedly changed the way of submarine warfare in the Pacific.
A fascinating book, especially for those who served in the Armed Forces, but even more so for those who served and serve aboard submarines.
October 10, 2018
It's now October 10, 2018. I read this book back in August of 2015 (guess that was before I was really using GoodReads?) Here's the brief review I wrote on Amazon back then:
"A very readable account of Mush Mortan and the USS Wahoo. The author did not at all attempt to sugar coat Captain Mortan's action in going after what he perceived to be Japanese soldiers escaping one of the ships he had just sent to the bottom. Unfortunately, some of those "Japanese soldiers" were actually prisoners of war being moved for use as slave labor. In today's world, many would look at Captain Mortan as a war criminal for this incident. Personally, I have mixed emotions on this, especially asI have a Merchant Marine background But taken in the context of what was going on in WW2???"
When I wrote that review I was forgetting about the Peleus affair.
A German U-Boat commander and several of his officers were tried and executed for machine-gunning survivors of the freighter Peleus.
A novel I'd read back in high school, and then actually re-read in 2014 was based on the Peleus affair. It was "An Operational Necessity" by Gwyn Griffin. I don't recall the title, but I've also read a non-fiction book on it.
"A very readable account of Mush Mortan and the USS Wahoo. The author did not at all attempt to sugar coat Captain Mortan's action in going after what he perceived to be Japanese soldiers escaping one of the ships he had just sent to the bottom. Unfortunately, some of those "Japanese soldiers" were actually prisoners of war being moved for use as slave labor. In today's world, many would look at Captain Mortan as a war criminal for this incident. Personally, I have mixed emotions on this, especially asI have a Merchant Marine background But taken in the context of what was going on in WW2???"
When I wrote that review I was forgetting about the Peleus affair.
A German U-Boat commander and several of his officers were tried and executed for machine-gunning survivors of the freighter Peleus.
A novel I'd read back in high school, and then actually re-read in 2014 was based on the Peleus affair. It was "An Operational Necessity" by Gwyn Griffin. I don't recall the title, but I've also read a non-fiction book on it.
December 21, 2011
Fairly comprehensive overview of the career of one the more famous United States' submarine "aces" from World War 2.
The most interesting question the book left me with (and let me be clear, the author does not overtly advance this question) is this- Was Mush Morton's successes due more to his near fanatical "kill the sonza bitches" tactics, or the skill of the men who served under him in the attack party and who would go on to become successful skippers- Dick O'Kane, George Grider, etc. Again- not a question that is actively kicked around in the book, but one that I began to mull over as the book came to a close.
Overall, a very enoyable and quick read.
The most interesting question the book left me with (and let me be clear, the author does not overtly advance this question) is this- Was Mush Morton's successes due more to his near fanatical "kill the sonza bitches" tactics, or the skill of the men who served under him in the attack party and who would go on to become successful skippers- Dick O'Kane, George Grider, etc. Again- not a question that is actively kicked around in the book, but one that I began to mull over as the book came to a close.
Overall, a very enoyable and quick read.
October 1, 2020
Well Written Biography
I found this to be a well written biography of a World War II submarine skipper who re-wrote the rules for submarine warfare in the early days of the Pacific war zone. Older and conservatively trained captains were pushed out in favor of more aggressive skippers. Mush Morton was one of them and he had an exemplary record aboard the Wahoo. If you are a fan of this period of history, this book will please.
I found this to be a well written biography of a World War II submarine skipper who re-wrote the rules for submarine warfare in the early days of the Pacific war zone. Older and conservatively trained captains were pushed out in favor of more aggressive skippers. Mush Morton was one of them and he had an exemplary record aboard the Wahoo. If you are a fan of this period of history, this book will please.
February 20, 2023
What a great book! Really enjoyed reading this after having read a book about the family search for the downed sub. I have read so many histories about how the torpedoes used during this stage of the war cost commanders so many lost targets and so reading the frustration aboard one of the most notorious “killer” subs of the era was incredibly interesting. Also reading why it is believed that “Mush” did not get a Medal of Honor was interesting and still could be considered debate worthy. Overall a very good read that did not overstay it’s welcome. Highly recommended.
May 28, 2020
An excellent book; well-written, good documentation and sources, little to no speculation. The only concern I had with it is that it doesn't seem to know exactly what it is. It's not a biography of CMDR Morton, and it's not a history of the USS Wahoo. A wide variety of problems are brought up - but no resolution is given (certainly that's because, in some cases, there was no resolution).
I'm glad he included information on the search (and the finding) of the Wahoo; good closure and very meaningful. Once again, however, he only lightly touches on the details.
I'm glad he included information on the search (and the finding) of the Wahoo; good closure and very meaningful. Once again, however, he only lightly touches on the details.
June 7, 2020
I had read the Logs of the Wahoo before and they are more robust and exciting than the "Undersea Warrior" writing of Mush Morton's odyssey. The book is written, I suspect, for those who have not done any research on the Wahoo's history. The book points out, and the logs, the disillusionment and real animosity directed toward the torpedos, and the politics involved, that they were required to use. History, covered well, is to me, is necessary to enable one to look at the present and see some of what lies ahead in our future.
December 5, 2011
Keith isn't enough of an historian for my taste. On the whole not a bad read, especially for those with a particular interest in WWII submarine warfare on the American side of things, and in Morton in particular. That said, the tone was a bit too casual and more playing to the audience, again those with a bent towards this sort of thing and, in addition, Navy vets like myself who seem to have an above and beyond fascination, than to honest-to-God history.
June 12, 2014
Great topic, poorly written. This is the story of WWII submarine officers and operations, with a good sub-plot (sorry for the pun) about innovative thinkers overcoming institutional conservatism. But the author uses juvenile language ("...the sonarman listened furiously") and often fills in gaps with his own speculation. And he does not appear to understand submarines.
August 11, 2020
An excellent telling of Wahoo 's story
Previous studies of Mush Morton and the Wahoo focus on the ten months of their patrolling and end in mystery. This book tells the story of Morton's life and how the story ended with the discovery of the wreck. Dad but you get a feeling of closure
Previous studies of Mush Morton and the Wahoo focus on the ten months of their patrolling and end in mystery. This book tells the story of Morton's life and how the story ended with the discovery of the wreck. Dad but you get a feeling of closure
April 15, 2020
A great story filled with adventure and history. This is one of those books you are happy to have discovered hiding on your bookshelf. Definitely an exciting read for anyone that is interested in history, especially about submarine warfare in the Pacific theater during World War 2.
November 13, 2015
Great book about the one of most successful submarine aces in history. A lot of techniques in submarine warfare were developed by Mush Morton. A must read for all brothers of the phin
July 8, 2021
Inspiring
A true account of a submarine commander who truly honored his personal insights. Mush Morton revised the way submarine warfare was conducted. While I wish there was no need for warfare there will continue to be. The courage and command style are important facets of Morton’s legacy. Told eloquently, this is an important read for anyone interested in lessons to be learned from people who answer the call to defend their country.
A true account of a submarine commander who truly honored his personal insights. Mush Morton revised the way submarine warfare was conducted. While I wish there was no need for warfare there will continue to be. The courage and command style are important facets of Morton’s legacy. Told eloquently, this is an important read for anyone interested in lessons to be learned from people who answer the call to defend their country.
August 5, 2021
A Submariner’s Tale - Required Professional Reading
I have always lived in awe and solemn respect for the men who served on WWII era submarines. There service and sacrifice is right up there with those veterans who stormed ashore on D-day.
As a modern nuclear submarine driver, I lived and served during the Cold War years. I have read many fine books on WWII submarines escapades and this one is one of the best. It is for both layman and expert. I’m sure you will enjoy it too!
I have always lived in awe and solemn respect for the men who served on WWII era submarines. There service and sacrifice is right up there with those veterans who stormed ashore on D-day.
As a modern nuclear submarine driver, I lived and served during the Cold War years. I have read many fine books on WWII submarines escapades and this one is one of the best. It is for both layman and expert. I’m sure you will enjoy it too!
November 4, 2023
A spine tingling, thoroughly researched and well written biography of Dudley W. (Mush) Morton and his war patrols as skipper of the submarine USS Wahoo, one of the most successful submarines in the Pacific in WW-II. As Veterans' Day 2023 approaches on November 11th, it was a solemn of the debts we owe to our military veterans and of the sacrifices they and their families made over the centuries of our existence as a representative democracy.
July 25, 2021
Great read!
Recommend this book to any navy and/or war historian. The reading of this fine book stroked my patriotic spirit and brightened my admiration and appreciation for these and many others that have died and served to keep this great nation safe. The task our servicewomen and men are conducting on foreign and domestic soil is unbelievable. thanks to all!
Recommend this book to any navy and/or war historian. The reading of this fine book stroked my patriotic spirit and brightened my admiration and appreciation for these and many others that have died and served to keep this great nation safe. The task our servicewomen and men are conducting on foreign and domestic soil is unbelievable. thanks to all!
June 4, 2024
Great book...my 2nd by this author. True account of a WWII submarine commander. Morton is credited with changing the way submarines are employed and this is his story. Well researched and detailed I like the way that he describes naval traditions, like the wardroom so that non naval people may understand.
December 4, 2024
What makes a man (now women too can serve on submarines) this biography explores the world of Commander Dudley W. Morton, AKA Mush Morton, the man who was feared by the IJN and for good reason. His patrols with Richard O'Kane is legendary. This biography explores this man's life and I wish there were more books about him.
June 4, 2021
Exciting read!
This was so informative about the role of submarines and in particular, the comraderie between those serving on the subs! I learned so much and thoroughly enjoyed the history of Mush and his crews! Highly recommended!
This was so informative about the role of submarines and in particular, the comraderie between those serving on the subs! I learned so much and thoroughly enjoyed the history of Mush and his crews! Highly recommended!
December 18, 2022
I was glued to this and failed to notice...
This book is a true page Turner. My wife got stuck in the chicken coop and I was mesmerized and failed to notice. That is the power of a good book, well written and easy to get in the moment with the subjects the author presents.
This book is a true page Turner. My wife got stuck in the chicken coop and I was mesmerized and failed to notice. That is the power of a good book, well written and easy to get in the moment with the subjects the author presents.
Read
February 28, 2025Really enjoyable account of one of the most colorful and dynamic submarine skippers of WWII. Ready to engage the enemy when requires, sometimes using unorthodox methods, he was one of the best. I would love to have gone to sea with him.
April 23, 2025
A great telling of a story that we would not know about if not for the authors for sight in sharing. "Mush" Morton refined submarine warfare and helped lead the way for victory in the Pacific theater of WWII.
March 13, 2018
Have you ever thought how it would be to be in the navy well if so read undersea warrior it takes you through how Mush Morton is working with the navy during pearl harbor
May 25, 2020
Great book for any WWII Navy buff!
I couldn’t stop reading once I started! This reads like a work of fiction but it’s an amazingly true story.
I couldn’t stop reading once I started! This reads like a work of fiction but it’s an amazingly true story.
August 20, 2020
Great story about a man I have heard about for years but never really understood what he did
January 23, 2021
Great submarine WWiI review
A love story with a full load of sub technology, and a tactics. A great revruew of WWII the Pacfic.
A love story with a full load of sub technology, and a tactics. A great revruew of WWII the Pacfic.
March 27, 2021
Great Story of a WWII War Hero
Excellent narration of a submarine commander in World War 2. Mush Morton is properly memorialized in these pages. Good book!
Excellent narration of a submarine commander in World War 2. Mush Morton is properly memorialized in these pages. Good book!
August 1, 2021
USS Wahoo
A great book about a great commander and crew. Extremely well researched and written it was difficult to put down.
A great book about a great commander and crew. Extremely well researched and written it was difficult to put down.
June 19, 2020
Hero’s are hard to find and Mush was a true hero. “Damn the torpedoes”
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews