The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors, by James Hornfischer, captured my fascination by dint of sheer heroism and selfless sacrifice. It is about the Battle off Samar, prelude to the greater Battle of Leyte Gulf, that is featured in this book; and, in particular, it features the life and times of one Ernest Evans, Creek/Cherokee Annapolis grad who, having run once in sea battle, vowed never to do so again. CMH winner Evans had told his crew at the commisssioning of the USS Johnston: “If you go on my ship, expect us to sail into trouble, not away from it.”
Well, that’s just what they did. Well worth reading, one of the best WW II histories I’ve ever read; and I think a dang good movie could come of it.
I’ve read about the Battle off Samar several times. Courage above and beyond the call of duty. I always love the part where the Japanese Destroyer goes slowly beside the sinking and burning American ship. And the Japanese saluted them. The Japs admired real bravery.