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Admiral Halsey's story
This book is a facsimile reprint and may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages.
310 pages, Hardcover
First published June 1, 1976
333 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
William F. Halsey
8 books3 followersFleet Admiral William Frederick Halsey, Jr., GBE (October 30, 1882 – August 16, 1959) (commonly referred to as "Bill" or "Bull" Halsey), was an American Fleet Admiral in the United States Navy. He commanded the South Pacific Area during the early stages of the Pacific War against Japan. Later he was commander of the Third Fleet through the duration of hostilities.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 11, 2019
Awe Inspiring
I was born five years to the day after the atomic bombing of Hitoshima. I've always had something of a mental affinity for World War II. In that regard, I have read much of the war's history. This wonderful work provided more in depth detail than any standard historical text I have ever read related to Navy combat and activities. The most significant information was the fact that Halsey, and others, did not consider the atomic bombings to have been pivotal in the Japanese surrender. This is startling, and flies in the face of my educational experiences and popular belief. I couldn't possibly recommend this wonderful book highly enough...a retired US Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 and Viet Nam veteran, who served four years in the US Navy and almost 17 in the US Army.
I was born five years to the day after the atomic bombing of Hitoshima. I've always had something of a mental affinity for World War II. In that regard, I have read much of the war's history. This wonderful work provided more in depth detail than any standard historical text I have ever read related to Navy combat and activities. The most significant information was the fact that Halsey, and others, did not consider the atomic bombings to have been pivotal in the Japanese surrender. This is startling, and flies in the face of my educational experiences and popular belief. I couldn't possibly recommend this wonderful book highly enough...a retired US Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 and Viet Nam veteran, who served four years in the US Navy and almost 17 in the US Army.
March 8, 2019
You have to wonder how the war would have gone had and not had Admiral Halsey.
I have read many stories from World War II. You have to be impressed with how one man can have such an effect on the outcome. We had many leaders who stepped up to the challenge, but few can compare to Bill Halsey.
I have read many stories from World War II. You have to be impressed with how one man can have such an effect on the outcome. We had many leaders who stepped up to the challenge, but few can compare to Bill Halsey.
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April 26, 2020Loved it!
This book gives a detailed description of Halsey's thinking and feelings as he made monumental decisions impacting the outcome of World War II in the Pacific. It also paints a picture of his perception of the personalities of the high ranking officers he dealt with on a regular basis (Nimitz, MacArthur, etc.). And, one cannot help but come away with a deep appreciation for the man Halsey was. His magnificent leadership and fighting spirit were exceeded only by his caring for the men who served under him.
This book gives a detailed description of Halsey's thinking and feelings as he made monumental decisions impacting the outcome of World War II in the Pacific. It also paints a picture of his perception of the personalities of the high ranking officers he dealt with on a regular basis (Nimitz, MacArthur, etc.). And, one cannot help but come away with a deep appreciation for the man Halsey was. His magnificent leadership and fighting spirit were exceeded only by his caring for the men who served under him.
July 19, 2019
An interesting and enjoyable read. Halsey’s account of the Pacific war was riveting. He was an extraordinarily patriotic and bold leader. Exactly the right man at the right time.
June 24, 2020
Published 1947
“This will not be an autobiography, but a report. Reports are the only things I know how to write, since half my time in the Navy has gone to preparing them.” Pg. 1
The book documents mostly his time in the Pacific during WWII and contains many good maps of the islands and battles he documents
His favorite toast: “I’ve drunk your health in company; I’ve drunk your health alone; I’ve drunk your health so many times, I’ve damned near ruined my own.” Pg. xiii
Mentions the story of Lt. Hugh Barr Miller, Jr, an All-American quarterback from the University of Alabama, who survived the sinking of the ‘Strong’ to land on an island near New Georgia and fight a one-man battle against forces there until rescued Pg. 163-64
The book is a tribute to the many senior officers e worked with
“The trip to Palau’s was a triple milestone for me. It was my first experience with DDT and despite the fact that this was a battlefield, I did not see a fly or mosquito or an insect of any sort. (I remembered at Guadalcanal, where our casualties from malaria were twice our casualties from the enemy.). Again, the Palau’s was the last time I commanded amphibious troops, and the last time I was under fire ashore,”. Pg. 204
What brought us victory instead was simply this: all hands thought alike. And that we did so is a tribute to our indoctrination in the United States Navy.” Pg. 227
Speaking of kamikazes- “The psychology behind it was too alien to our; Americans, who fight to live, find it hard to realize that another people will fight to die.” Pg. 229. “To me, the kamikaze was a weapon not of inspiration, but of desperation-an unmistakable sign that the Japanese war machine was close to collapse.” Pg. 232
Speaks of the typhoon that sunk 3 destroyers and caused massive damage to many other ships in the fleet- and especially of Lt. Commander Henry L. Plage of the destroyer escort ‘Tabberer’, which he managed to keep afloat after losing her foremast and all radios and radar and to rescue ten survivors of the sunken ‘Hull’. Pg. 239-240
Speaks of the prison camps that were liberated including the infamous Omari 8- “The unspeakable brutality which they had endured at the hands of the Japanese Army-the Navy disclaims any connection with the camps- has been amply described by correspondents; besides, I still can not discuss the subject temperately.” Pg. 279
“This will not be an autobiography, but a report. Reports are the only things I know how to write, since half my time in the Navy has gone to preparing them.” Pg. 1
The book documents mostly his time in the Pacific during WWII and contains many good maps of the islands and battles he documents
His favorite toast: “I’ve drunk your health in company; I’ve drunk your health alone; I’ve drunk your health so many times, I’ve damned near ruined my own.” Pg. xiii
Mentions the story of Lt. Hugh Barr Miller, Jr, an All-American quarterback from the University of Alabama, who survived the sinking of the ‘Strong’ to land on an island near New Georgia and fight a one-man battle against forces there until rescued Pg. 163-64
The book is a tribute to the many senior officers e worked with
“The trip to Palau’s was a triple milestone for me. It was my first experience with DDT and despite the fact that this was a battlefield, I did not see a fly or mosquito or an insect of any sort. (I remembered at Guadalcanal, where our casualties from malaria were twice our casualties from the enemy.). Again, the Palau’s was the last time I commanded amphibious troops, and the last time I was under fire ashore,”. Pg. 204
What brought us victory instead was simply this: all hands thought alike. And that we did so is a tribute to our indoctrination in the United States Navy.” Pg. 227
Speaking of kamikazes- “The psychology behind it was too alien to our; Americans, who fight to live, find it hard to realize that another people will fight to die.” Pg. 229. “To me, the kamikaze was a weapon not of inspiration, but of desperation-an unmistakable sign that the Japanese war machine was close to collapse.” Pg. 232
Speaks of the typhoon that sunk 3 destroyers and caused massive damage to many other ships in the fleet- and especially of Lt. Commander Henry L. Plage of the destroyer escort ‘Tabberer’, which he managed to keep afloat after losing her foremast and all radios and radar and to rescue ten survivors of the sunken ‘Hull’. Pg. 239-240
Speaks of the prison camps that were liberated including the infamous Omari 8- “The unspeakable brutality which they had endured at the hands of the Japanese Army-the Navy disclaims any connection with the camps- has been amply described by correspondents; besides, I still can not discuss the subject temperately.” Pg. 279
December 29, 2020
You must read this book. It is beyond moving.
This is the only book one need read for an understanding of the strategic battles of the Pacific war, from Pearl to surrender. I have read many. This is a huge story finally made sense of. It's also a tremendous nail-biter. Memoirs are usually not a reliable reference but this hair-raising sequence of battles bears no embellishment. I doubt America has had a finer hour, given the scale of losses in the face of insurmountable odds. In the span of a few days, scores of American ships and hundreds of planes were entombed in the Solomon "slot" and Ironbottom Sound. Friendly lives in the thousands were extinguished forever. Halsey gives these lives tribute so we can honor our highest values as a people.
Without winning this last chance gambit at Guadalcanal, the Japanese would have the Pacific, Philippines, China and Australia. The world map would be very different today. .
This immortal American history was never told better. There is no one that had a closer perspective. Still, he takes no credit besides faking bluster for the press and the enemy. Halsey also gives accolades freely in encounters with MacArthur, Eleanor Roosevelt and fellow officers. He also explains logistical and other challenges clearly and uses language suitable for a broad or youthful audience.
This is the only book one need read for an understanding of the strategic battles of the Pacific war, from Pearl to surrender. I have read many. This is a huge story finally made sense of. It's also a tremendous nail-biter. Memoirs are usually not a reliable reference but this hair-raising sequence of battles bears no embellishment. I doubt America has had a finer hour, given the scale of losses in the face of insurmountable odds. In the span of a few days, scores of American ships and hundreds of planes were entombed in the Solomon "slot" and Ironbottom Sound. Friendly lives in the thousands were extinguished forever. Halsey gives these lives tribute so we can honor our highest values as a people.
Without winning this last chance gambit at Guadalcanal, the Japanese would have the Pacific, Philippines, China and Australia. The world map would be very different today. .
This immortal American history was never told better. There is no one that had a closer perspective. Still, he takes no credit besides faking bluster for the press and the enemy. Halsey also gives accolades freely in encounters with MacArthur, Eleanor Roosevelt and fellow officers. He also explains logistical and other challenges clearly and uses language suitable for a broad or youthful audience.
July 9, 2020
A good autobiography. I hadn't known much detail about Halsey's life. I would have liked to have read more about his life other than WWII. There were a couple items that struck me. The first has to do with the awarding of medals. "And when Secretary Daniels offered him a Distinguished Service Medal for his work in World War I, he refused to accept it; he said that it had been cheapened by indiscriminate awards." That sounds so much like today. There are so many participation medals given out. they don't mean anything. They are given out because no one should be offended by not getting one. He talks about being on a LSD, a Landing Ship Dock. I remember my father talking about his time in the service between WWII and the Korean War. He operated a LSD. A Large Steel Desk. He was a pay bursar in New York. For those that mention Pearl Harbor and the surprise that it was."By the fall of 1940, we had known that war with Japan was inevitable. By the next spring, we knew it was impending." So they knew it was coming, they may not have known exactly when or how but they knew it was going to happen.
February 12, 2021
Thriller in real life. Amazing read, and surprisingly interesting and engrossing vital history, that soon after the start I found it most difficult to put down. True history and not just for background on the Pacific War of WWll, but also in the context of the vital history of the world and the period of the day and importance of the day, the present and the future. Surprisingly detailed and yet still most engaging. The quotes and the humor of the day, especially from Halsey himself, reveal so much down to earth character of himself and as with his and our fellow countrymen, at this time.
I loved the book just for itself as well. People as Halsey also give us a positive feeling and the encouragement to know that one determined individual can accomplish a huge amount of good and effect of real change for the benefit of others.
I loved the book just for itself as well. People as Halsey also give us a positive feeling and the encouragement to know that one determined individual can accomplish a huge amount of good and effect of real change for the benefit of others.
March 3, 2019
USA Always and Forever
Written in 1947. Still valid. My whole family is USAF, but this naval story is so worth your time to read. Told in a totally black and white manner. Almost shocking even for me to read now because I too have been brainwashed by today's Snowflake environment. However, after a few chapters under my belt, I felt my true understanding return. The Pacific War of WW2 was powerful. We needed men to fight it and thank God Admiral Halsey was doing what he was doing. If you want to feel good about America, then read this. If you dont , well you won't even read this book or review......so whatever.
Written in 1947. Still valid. My whole family is USAF, but this naval story is so worth your time to read. Told in a totally black and white manner. Almost shocking even for me to read now because I too have been brainwashed by today's Snowflake environment. However, after a few chapters under my belt, I felt my true understanding return. The Pacific War of WW2 was powerful. We needed men to fight it and thank God Admiral Halsey was doing what he was doing. If you want to feel good about America, then read this. If you dont , well you won't even read this book or review......so whatever.
October 16, 2020
Well written biography about Bull Halsey. Provides a lot of insights and strategy that went into the Pacific sea war against the Japanese, including the fragile and almost disastrous beginnings to the decisions that eventually led to the US winning that critical war. Halsey was absolutely a stellar Admiral and helped make critical decisions. Halsey also was well-connected with everyone including General McCarthur, Admiral Nimitz and President Roosevelt and tell of interesting, humorous and important conversations during the Pacific war. His dedication to the United States, the armed services, especially the Navy and to his men were legendary. Recommended for WWII buffs.
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July 22, 2019I always had Adm. Halsey as one of my real life hero's, after reading his own words in this book, he is more so. Talks about the Pacific War from the history stand point and from a personal stand point. His no bad judgement on anyone is an example to all. Many men may have made mistakes but to list them in a book or hold them responsible when you can or could do nothing about them is petty. Adm. Halsey was many things but never petty. A great read about a great man.
February 17, 2019
Professional execution of the responsibilities of a hero accomplished with verve and dignity.
Well written in first person narrative style with occasional editorial inserts. The writer presumes a fairly comprehensive familiarity with Pacific Ocean geography which in the absence of maps injures the appreciation of a casual non-navy lay reader.
Well written in first person narrative style with occasional editorial inserts. The writer presumes a fairly comprehensive familiarity with Pacific Ocean geography which in the absence of maps injures the appreciation of a casual non-navy lay reader.
April 24, 2019
Pleasant memories
I enjoyed this book very much. The European events are very familiar for me.. However, I never knew that much about the war in the Pacific. I just wish that I had been more familiar with many of the naval terms. I highly recommend this book. I am proud to be an American.
I enjoyed this book very much. The European events are very familiar for me.. However, I never knew that much about the war in the Pacific. I just wish that I had been more familiar with many of the naval terms. I highly recommend this book. I am proud to be an American.
March 20, 2021
Fantastic Read
This is a must read for anyone interested in the Pacific theater. Admiral Haley's own words are as he is reading them personally to the reader. Want a fantastic read. I am going to go and re read it again right now. Thank you Admiral for sharing your thoughts and emotions with us.
This is a must read for anyone interested in the Pacific theater. Admiral Haley's own words are as he is reading them personally to the reader. Want a fantastic read. I am going to go and re read it again right now. Thank you Admiral for sharing your thoughts and emotions with us.
December 28, 2021
A wild ride in the Con..
Bill Halsey was a great leader of men for sure. Gained from the New Giunea theater account that seems to have been purposely censored from my Hogh School history books..to do otherwise would have caused an embarrassing exodus from the Army ranks! Remarkable Amercan!
Bill Halsey was a great leader of men for sure. Gained from the New Giunea theater account that seems to have been purposely censored from my Hogh School history books..to do otherwise would have caused an embarrassing exodus from the Army ranks! Remarkable Amercan!
January 22, 2019
Pacific war against Japan told by an expert!
I have read many accounts on this same theme. This is one of the best I have found. It is terrific and best of all, it was written by a warrior who was there and knew from past experience just how to proceed.
I have read many accounts on this same theme. This is one of the best I have found. It is terrific and best of all, it was written by a warrior who was there and knew from past experience just how to proceed.
February 15, 2019
Admiral Halsey's View of The War in The Pacific
Excellent report of a distinguished U.S. Naval career! It reflects in his words what historians may have missed when comparing events of his exploits.
Excellent report of a distinguished U.S. Naval career! It reflects in his words what historians may have missed when comparing events of his exploits.
March 15, 2019
Admiral Halsey
I greatly enjoyed this book. However the addition of maps would have made the book much more enjoyable. General MacArthur was portrayed in a much greater light than others encounters with him.
I greatly enjoyed this book. However the addition of maps would have made the book much more enjoyable. General MacArthur was portrayed in a much greater light than others encounters with him.
March 2, 2020
Good read Naval history. I chose this book because of my interest in naval history.
Interesting read. My father-in-law served under Halsey and went through the typhone known as Halsey's storm.I have heard many stories about the storm.
Interesting read. My father-in-law served under Halsey and went through the typhone known as Halsey's storm.I have heard many stories about the storm.
April 29, 2021
I very interesting read, lots of history as told from his side.
Admiral Halsey story fits in with what other books I have read about WW2 and the Pacific. His side fills in caps from other books.
Admiral Halsey story fits in with what other books I have read about WW2 and the Pacific. His side fills in caps from other books.
October 13, 2021
Anecdotal and entertaining
Lots of stories not found elsewhere! It's a document of interest to anyone studying the war in the Pacific. There isn't much of a controversial nature, a lot of congratulations to colleagues and the like.
Lots of stories not found elsewhere! It's a document of interest to anyone studying the war in the Pacific. There isn't much of a controversial nature, a lot of congratulations to colleagues and the like.
February 1, 2019
From the top!
Halsey's story is easy to read. I covered most of the territory while in the Navy in the 50's, and felt related some how to the book.
Halsey's story is easy to read. I covered most of the territory while in the Navy in the 50's, and felt related some how to the book.
February 18, 2019
Personal Viewpoint
Halsey's story, his personal view, is a wonderful supplement to the general histories of the Pacific War. A good read,
.
Halsey's story, his personal view, is a wonderful supplement to the general histories of the Pacific War. A good read,
.
February 17, 2019
Best account of
it's a great account of magnificent warrior and leader of men. All who are interested in WW2 should definitely read this book.
it's a great account of magnificent warrior and leader of men. All who are interested in WW2 should definitely read this book.
February 18, 2019
A Tremendous Autobiography
A thoroughly readable and enjoyable autobiography of one of our navy’s greatest commanders. A great leader during the hardest of times.
A thoroughly readable and enjoyable autobiography of one of our navy’s greatest commanders. A great leader during the hardest of times.
February 19, 2019
Good firrt person account of actions during command.
I have read many accounts of Admiral Halley’s actions during WWll. It was enlightening to read his story and recollections from his journals.
I have read many accounts of Admiral Halley’s actions during WWll. It was enlightening to read his story and recollections from his journals.
March 22, 2019
Well Told Story
The book was engaging and very enlightening of the campaign in the Pacific. I wish there had been maps and pictures.
The book was engaging and very enlightening of the campaign in the Pacific. I wish there had been maps and pictures.
April 8, 2019
Too much detail, really slow reading
June 15, 2019
The bravery and management
Of the crews showed the strength of the men
Is a wonder to behold. From shore to our men fought for every America.
Of the crews showed the strength of the men
Is a wonder to behold. From shore to our men fought for every America.
September 16, 2019
Compelling
A superb first hand account that pulls no punches. He admits his short comings, but does not see his sometimes shortsighted focus. Good read.
A superb first hand account that pulls no punches. He admits his short comings, but does not see his sometimes shortsighted focus. Good read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews