The Other Side of Infamy: My Journey through Pearl Harbor and the World of War

by Jim Downing, James Lund (With)

War is uncomfortable for Christians, and worldwide war is unfamiliar for today’s generations. Jim Downing reflects on his illustrious military career, including his experience during the bombing of Pearl Harbor, to show how we can be people of faith during troubled times.

The natural human impulse is to run from attack. Jim Downing―along with countless other soldiers and sailors at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941―ran toward it, fighting to rescue his fellow navy men, to protect loved ones and civilians on the island, and to find the redemptive path forward from a devastating war. We are protected from war these days, but there was a time when war was very present in our lives, and in The Other Side of Infamy we learn from a veteran of Pearl Harbor and World War II what it means to follow Jesus into and through every danger, toil, and snare.

Genres: History, Biography, Nonfiction, Christian, World War II, Audiobook, Memoir

224 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2016

About the author

Retired Navy Lt. Jim Downing was America’s second oldest known survivor of the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. He was also a member of The Navigators, a Christian ministry established in 1933. Jim wrote three books including his biography in 2016, The Other Side of Infamy. The book earned him a Guinness World Record as the oldest male author, having completed the book at age 102.

Reviews

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a book... Little did I know when I chose this book for review just how much it would impact me.

I first came to 'know' Jim Downing and the Navigators through an article about him in another book. Imagine my surprise when, while flipping through this book, I came across a familiar picture and exclaimed "I know that guy!" I really enjoyed his story in the aforementioned book and was eager to learn more about him.

Let me tell you, people... I was not disappointed. This is an incredible story, a tale of encouraging faith. Written as an autobiography from Mr. Downing's first-person point-of-view, this book chronicles his life through childhood years, joining the Navy, becoming a Christian, falling in love, and -- mostly -- a look at WWII through his eyes.

It was amazing to see all the wonderful ways God has worked and shown Himself powerful through Jim Downing's life through the years. From leading fellow servicemen to Christ to losing good friends to the war, he tells an amazing story that greatly encouraged me in my walk with Christ.

The Other Side of Infamy is a powerful story of one man's faith through times of war and peace, peril and heartache, happiness and joy. It's sure to be enjoyed by readers of all ages.


**Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.**

[BooksNCrannies · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Time is a strange dimension. Thousands of individual hopes, plans, and lives, that had been years or decades in the making had been violently changed or tragically ended [on the morning of the Pearl Harbor attack]. When more time passed, what changes would I, my wife, my shipmates, and my country see? One thing was certain: Our futures had just taken a new course."

✏️ Review ✏️

In The Other Side of Infamy, Jim Downing not only recounts his experience through the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack but also tells about his personal walk with Jesus Christ through the midst of that devastating and tragic event. I really enjoyed reading Downing's military autobiography, especially as it flows smoothly with a simplistic and conversational writing style.

Eyewitness accounts of significant historical events are always fascinating and insightful; The Other Side of Infamy is no exception. Besides being just an eyewitness account of the Pearl Harbor attack, Downing's autobiography also offers personal reflections of God's faithfulness, love, and providence, which Downing highlights both in his civilian and military life.

The Other Side of Infamy deliveries an inspiring historical account — an account that leaves no doubt that God has been actively working in the pages of history.

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📊 A Quick Overview 📊

👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The conversation and simplistic writing style.
• The themes of God's faithfulness, love, and providence.
• The insightful first-hand account of the Pearl Harbor attack.
• The photograph spread included in the center of the book.

👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• (Can't think of anything atm.)

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❓ To Read or Not To Read? ❓

— Would I recommend this book? Yes, absolutely.*

— To whom? To those who enjoy first-hand inspirational historical accounts highlighting God's workings in history.

*(Note: I leave it up to each individual to decide the maturity and discernment level required to read the books I recommend, based on my content warnings below [in my Book Breakdown]. My content warnings [if any] should always be considered alongside my recommendations when deciding who these books are best suited for.)

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📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 4/5)
~Fundamentals {Nonfiction Version}: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📑 Didactics: 3/5

— 📝 Writing: 4/5

— 👀 Engagement: 3.5/5

— 🧩 Clarity: 4/5

~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)

— 🤬 Language: 0/5

— ⚔️ Violence: 1/5

• A few mild but potentially disturbing details relating to carnage, death, and suffering.

— ⚠️ Sexual: 0/5

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📣 Random Comments 📣

• (None)

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💬 Favorite Quotes 💬

• What I've learned from... experience... is that God does not respond to false alarms. If I feel he's not paying attention, it's because I'm not in any real trouble. And if I am in real trouble, I don't have to worry about it. I know he's there. He may not handle things the way I would prefer, but I recognize he's got things under control. (p. 189)

[Laura Burkhart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this one! It was really my ideal book…a compelling, page turning memoir, written about a fascinating time in history, by someone who loves Jesus. Yup. That’s my kinda book!
The beginning and middle of the book were great—Jim’s background, as a young boy during both WW1 and the Great Depression, his experience in the navy, and then of course Pearl Harbor and America’s involvement in WW2. He included a lot of historical background and I loved that.
The last third of the book drug a bit. It felt more random, with unconnected stories about his continued career in the navy and involvement in the Navigators. (The exception is the chapter about Castle Bravo-that was crazy.😱)
One thing that stood out to me-I was involved in a chapter of the Navigators in college. There were many good things about it, but also a few things that didn’t quite sit right with me (their slightly reverential attitude towards the founder, Dawson Trotman, lack of emphasis on the local church, and the ability to tell someone they’re discipling what God’s will for them is, to name a few.) I assumed that these were just isolated issues in our campus chapter, but I was surprised to be reminded of each of them in this book. I know that Navigators has had a positive impact on so many, and Jim and his fellow Navs led many to Christ. But it was a reminder that no ministry is perfect, and I was surprised to see the same pattern in this book that I had experienced.
All in all, a great book, and one I will not soon forget! Also, Jim wrote this when he was 103, that in itself is pretty incredible.

[Joni Hartman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got to meet Jim Downing a few years ago when he came to speak at my church. I bought his book, which he autographed, at that time. It was so interesting, then, to read his first-person account of his experiences being at Pearl Harbor during the attack in 1941.
I saved this book to read during my visit to France in March of this year to tour the beaches of Normandy for the 75th Anniversary of D-day, and that really gave me some perspective that I didn’t have before.
I also enjoyed this book because Jim was known as “Navigator number 6” most of his life, since he was an original member of the evangelistic team.
The book is a mix of stories about his life, personal observations about the world, thoughts about God, and his maturing as a man and as a Christian.
Interesting, easy read.

[Becky B · Rating 4 out of 5]

A memoir of a US Navy seaman (eventual captain) and early member of the Navigators who survived the attack on Pearl Harbor.

This memoir, written at the age of 103, focuses on Jim Downing's naval career and his Christian walk, which eventually led him to be on staff with the Navigators after retiring from a number of years in the Navy. I have read several other books on Pearl Harbor, but none from a survivor's perspective. What was probably most impressive was Downing's ability to recap his life of over a century in about 200 pages and not have it feel rushed or superficial. It had just the right level of detail and pacing. It is always interesting to hear about how God has worked in others' lives and led them.

Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: Nothing beyond a kiss.
Violence: Deaths in the war, boating accidents after the war, and events like earthquakes near where he was stationed are related. He describes helping rescue injured men and recover bodies from Pearl Harbor in some detail but nothing super graphic.
Ethnic diversity: Most people are white or not described, but he mentions meeting one of the higher up Japanese leaders years after the war.
LGBTQ+ content: None specified
Other: Downing and his ship were pretty close to an atomic explosion in the Cold War.

[Queenie · Rating 5 out of 5]

books like this make me wish I was hecking brave/capable

[Rebecca Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I could of given more than 5 stars!

[Sydney Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s not often a 103-year-old publishes a book, but Jim Downing has done it — and successfully. The Other Side of Infamy is his memoir focusing on his years with the navy, his survival of Pearl Harbor and most importantly, his coming to Jesus.

Downing is likely most known for his involvement with The Navigators, a Jesus-focused ministry with a mission to evangelize, establish and equip future generations. He was one of the first men to start the organization. However, he had a very successful career in the navy, as well. For many years, he felt God asked him to stay in the navy just for the sake of saving souls. He was an “inside man,” so to speak, and was able to spread the hope of Jesus to many men that way.

Obedience cannot be halfhearted. — Jim Downing

He was stationed in Hawaii when Japan bombed the USA on the infamous day of December 7, 1941. So many of us know the general history of it, but reading another firsthand experience and re-living it with him is powerful. It’s incredibly important to remember history and stories such as this need to be read.

Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. — George Santayana

Downing writes very militaristically — it’s clear, concise language that focuses on making a point and not necessarily creating a picture for the reader. But that in and of itself generates a mood in tune with the story.

He had many close calls with death — from bombs to radiation exposure — and I was greatly impacted by how he handled it. He trusted each situation to God and describes an unreal peace each time.

When I expected my life to end, I experienced the greatest peace I had ever known. The Lord was with me during my worst moments at Pearl Harbor. I understood then that he would always be there.

Another underlying theme of this book — perhaps unintentional — is the example his wife sets. Morena was a strong Christian and understood our purpose here on earth is to make Jesus known. She birthed many children, started and managed various ministries and regularly moved her family for each of her husband’s new assignments. She understood the “eternity” outlook — that we are only on earth for a short while. Just when she had settled into another home again, God called them to move elsewhere. It makes me deeply reflect on my own life, whether or not I trust God enough or have the tenacity to be so unequivocally obedient. Food for thought.

Morena also led the charge in a certain situation. Years after the Pearl Harbor bombing, Jim and Morena were at an event in Japan at which they had the opportunity to meet the commander who actually headed up the attack back in 1941. Mitsuo Fuchida had since discovered Jesus (praise the Lord!) and genuinely spent the rest of his life telling his story and being a humble servant of Christ. On that day, Morena shook his hand first while Jim struggled with forgiveness. They later crossed paths many times and the relationship improved, but Morena’s initial showing of love and forgiveness was outstanding.

Jim Downing is a man of example. His memoir describes the “date which will live in infamy” that we all somewhat know, but the “other side of infamy” — the amazing story of how so many navy men came to Christ — will forever be engraved in my mind. Praise God for men such as Jim Downing.

I received this book free from the publisher through the Tyndale House Publishers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best Pearl Harbor books I’ve ever read, although it covered a lot more time than just that day. Lt. Downing is a true inspiration and has many many interesting and wonderful stories to tell. I can’t recommend this book enough if you want to be informed, inspired and educated on some little known facts. Excellent history.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted at Of Books and Bibles.

The Other Side of Infamy is Downing’s memoir of his time in the Navy, served from 1932-1954. This period of time saw both World War II and the Korean War, as well as the start of the Cold War. This book also chronicles, although from the perspective of someone who was not yet at the head of the organization, the beginnings of the Navigators ministry and Downing’s involvement with the Navigators.

Downing was assigned to a ship docked at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He was not on the ship at the time of the attack, but was a first-hand observer of what went on that day. The stories of WWII take up much of the book, although he also tells stories about growing up, the Korean War, military life, and the tests of the atomic bomb at Bikini Atoll.

Downing’s Christian faith and military service bring an interesting perspective to this book. Often, Christian books deal with war in a “of course we shouldn’t go to war” way, and don’t go very deep at all into it. Downing, on the other hand, views the US as not showing proper love for neighbor and care for the oppressed by not entering WWII until after Pearl Harbor.

As will happen with Christian books, I am not in full agreement with Downing’s theology or many of his interpretations of Bible passages or how a Christian life should be led. For example, he tells a story about telling his soon-to-be wife that his priorities would be God, the Navy, and then her. I don’t see how a Christian man can read Ephesians 5:22 – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church…” – and then put his wife under his career in terms of priority. However, since this is a memoir and not a theology book, my disagreements with the author don’t affect my rating.

This book starts off a little slow, but overall is well-written, interesting, and easy to read. I listened to most of it, and the narrator of the audio book was very good.

[Calvin Herting · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s fascinating to read an account of the attacks on Pearl Harbor from someone who not only lived through it but provided vital support to the devastated ships and men. I’m inspired by Jim Downing’s courage, conviction and commitment to Jesus, all of which contributed to successful and rewarding military and ministry careers. I also learned a great deal from Downing’s insights into military matters. In my opinion, reading books like this one is an ideal way to learn about and from history.

My favorite quote from the book:

“I once read that 92 percent of the things we worry about never happen. And yet it’s often worry that drives our prayers. And when those prayers over our worries are met with silence? We wonder whether God cares about us. We wonder whether God is truly there. Does God respond to false alarms? I believe he doesn’t. God is a realist, I think, and while he is always present to us and always active and in control, he is not bound to engage our anxieties. If we’re not feeling the peace of God, I suspect we’re not truly at risk. Where there is real trouble, real danger, I believe God is present. He may not do what we want, but he will provide what we need in times of trouble. We need him. We need his peace.”

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this is not the best written book, I would still recommend it. It reads like he is going back through his diary or journals of his life and adding thoughts or expounding more. Not terrible but jumpy at times, some mentions are short, just a brief tid bit.
But the content is very encouraging, inspiring, and humble. much like The Greatest Generation, the story is told matter of fact. The bravery and sacrifices made by this generation were simply just what needed to be done, everyone was doing it. They don't think of themselves as special or entitled to have a book written about them. It makes me wonder if during Iraq and Afghanistan if we had scrap metal drives, rubber drives, war bonds, food and gas rations- would the American citizens responded differently, supported more, and ultimately the Bush administration wouldn't have been blamed for the cost of the War on Terror?
Even if you just grab the book at the library and read the Epilogue, I think you would be blessed getting some insight into the man Jim Downing.

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first assigned this to my 15 yo. Daughter to read for school last year , when we were studying the continent of North America (Around the world in 180 days ).
This book has been on my own list to read for a while , now .
What a life changing experience for us as we read this first-hand account of a survivor of Pearl Harbor , and other dangers throughout his 24 years of service in the Navy . As he said , "2 Hot wars , and 1 cold one . "
Finally , his amazing testimony for Jesus Christ , I had no idea , is familiar around the world !
My Mom was privileged to meet his son at the PT office where she works , and after a few conversations , he gifted the autographed copy we just read .
Not 2 weeks later , my Mom was told by Jim ' s son , that his father had just gone Home to be with the Lord .
What an amazing testiment of God' s showing Romans 8:28 in real life !

[RevRonR · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read numerous book on military history, especially WWII and the epic sea battles, along with the attack on Oahu, Dec. 7, 1941. This is not a long book and it does not go into deeper detail on what the history books do. But what I did like about it was the narrative of this man’s life, whom he interacted with, and what his naval career looked like following the attack on Pearl. I also loved how The Other Side of Infamy displayed how faith in Jesus Christ should be lived out in our lives no matter what our place in life or occupation is. Downing served in the navy for 24 years and never wavered, it seemed, in his faith. And the narrative of the Navigators subplot throughout becomes very clear in the last quarter of the book. I find this book unique to other “war stories” I have read. Nevertheless, it is well-worth the time and short effort to read, as it’s not a long book, mostly quick reading. I have it a high recommendation.

[Elizabeth Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my new favorite book! Jim Downing takes us through his life in the Navy, dangers and devestating events, life with his wife and children, and describes how God was present through it all. In the most profound statement about God's lack of response to "false alarms" (anxiety without true danger), he helped me to understand why it doesn't always feel like God is present.

His ministry as a Navigator at Glen Eyrie in Colorado Springs is near and dear to my heart, as I had the privilege of spending many days on the castle grounds as a child, and occasionally hiked to the grave of his friend, mentor, and founder of The Navigators, Dawson Trotman. Reading about Jim Downing's time in Colorado was like going home to my childhood. I highly recommend this book for everyone.

[Paul Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding, 103 year old man tells an extraordinary, true story

I highly recommend this book, written by a 103 year old former serviceman. His accounts of military life and the events at Pearl Harbor were not only insightful and illuminating, but written in an intriguing and interesting way.
As well, Jim's account of his spiritual pilgrimage were helpful and motivating and provided encouragement well worth the price of the book.
I recommend it to anyone interested in military or American history as well as to anyone searching for insights regarding a spiritual journey and/or a life well-lived.
An outstanding book!

[Kathy Penrod · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the remarkable story of the life of Jim Downing who was assigned to the West Virginia at Pearl Harbor. He had a remarkable career in the navy and with the Christian organization the Navigators. It is almost like reading a movie script with lots of adventure, danger, close calls, and in all of it the hand of God guiding and directing his path. I was deeply moved by his commitment to his country, his family but most of all to God. Several times he said to the Lord, "I'll see you in a few minutes" but his life was spared. At the time of the writing of this book in 2016 he was 103 years old. He went to be with the Lord in 2018.

[Ron · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tells the story of Jim Downing and his time in the Navy before, during and after the attack, in 1941, on Pearl Harbor by Japan.
Jim was stationed on the U.S. ship West Virginia and it was docked in Pearl Harbor when Japan attacked. It tells the story from his perspective, of the destruction and lives lost and his fear during this attack.
This book also describes Jim’s faith in God and how it helped him in life and especially around the time of war.

I thought this was a very good book describing from one persons view of the attack and after the attack.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was such a pleasure to read about Jim Downings life, told to us by himself! I didn't know that this book would have such an impact on me. Jim Downing survived one of the most horrific attacks on the USA and served his country faithfully for many years, leading so many men and women to Christ at the same time. His life is truly an inspiration to many. If you haven't read this book, I highly suggest you do so soon!

[Dustin Tramel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read with some great insight into the attack on Pearl Harbor and the early days of the Navigators ministry. Reflecting on the death of another sailor: "My fledgeling faith took on a new urgency. I had been granted salvation and a peace and joy that would sustain me into eternity, but I'd missed an opportunity to pass on these gifts to someone who had desperately needed them. I resolved to make sure it never happened again." p.48

[Joy Kidney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jim Downing was another young man who joined the Navy during the Great Depression, needing a job. His battleship was one damaged at Pearl Harbor. During his Navy years, he met Dawson Trotman, the man who began the Navigators Christian ministry. Downing worked with him, leading Bible studies and giving sermons. The book is his memoir of service and sharing the Gospel, along with his marriage and several children born while making so many moves and promotions.

[Rachel Grepke · Rating 4 out of 5]

We know about Pearl Harbor, but we don't know much bout the actual account of what all took place. In this book you meet Jim Downing who not only was there, but in the midst of utter chaos, found peace in Jesus along the way. This book takes you through his life, adventures, service and viewpoint of the world. His honesty, faith and service are unmatched and amazing. A great read and great reminder of all those who serve and how God is at work even when the world is at war.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating life of this Christian man; I learned a lot about Pearl Harbor and Downing's counsel that if we ever feel as if God is not paying attention, it's because we're not in any real trouble (He doesn't respond to false alarms). And if we are in trouble, we don't need to worry because He's always there.

Recommended by Cynthia.

[Stanley Harder · Rating 5 out of 5]

A faithful journey

Not too many biographies detail such a long period of service in God's kingdom. While seeing a good deal of history through Jim's eyes, the best part is having an inside track to listen in as God does amazing things through one fully committed disciple. An encouraging story for anyone wondering if it is worth it all.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story of a man who followed Jesus

Jim’s understanding of Jesus’s call “come and follow” lead him to a remarkable life through many challenging situations. Understand Jim lived through three wars and over twenty years of full time ministry is a story of a God who is in the people business.

[Pierce Banks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Didn't realize that his Christian journey was apart of this history book but was quite pleased that it was included considering it was such a driving force in his life after his conversion. Still some nice historical bits as well over the course of his life. Not as much about pearl harbor as I would have anticipated though.

[Luke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Only two chapters of the book are dedicated to Pearl Harbor. Mainly the book about his time in the Navy, his wife, and ministry work, especially with the Navigators. From a spiritual side it’s a good read seeing how God works in the lives of people. But, from a historical side there is not a lot about Pearl Harbor and I found myself wanting more from the book.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Straightforward account of Jim Downing's spiritual journey, WWII experiences & work with Dawson Trotman & the Navigators. Interesting, fast read about a man who survived Pearl Harbor, evangelized his fellow sailors at every opportunity & gave many years to Bible study ministries. Worthwhile.

[Jim Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good read about actual events of Jim Downing surviving Pearl Harbor. He is now 103 years old. He came to our church this summer and told us a brief history of his story of his survival and life after Pearl Harbor.

[Yana · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting and fascinating life story. I liked the way of storytelling and how the events that happened and the feelings of Downing flowed smoothly throughout the book. I did not feel that it was too preachy, a good book overall.