Medals of Honor from the Silent Service-Episode 218

This week Seth and Bill welcome special guest Chuck Merkel to the show to discuss the Medals of Honor awarded to those members of the Silent Service during World War II. Together the trio goes into the stories of Howard Gilmore, John Cromwell, Sam Dealey, Red Ramage, and George Street. Tune in and see what gallantry is really like.
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[@jspades007]

When I had the honor of being pinned with my dolphins in 2007, it was as the story of the USS Sculpin was read by my chief. I’ve always remembered that harrowing story, and was very proud that my last boat had Capt. Cromwell’s portrait and story posted in the passageway outside of the mess decks. An amazing episode, thank you for telling these men’s stories.

[@kilcar]

Regarding Toti's final comment: Ditto. I recall my father's unrelated service as a Seabee on Woodlark Island between June 1943- June 1944 when a Australian Lockheed patrol bomber crashed at the airdrome there. The Lockheed was literally torn to pieces in the event, but in a true miracle, all of the Australian crew survived. They were treated for injuries by the two Navy physicians and one US Army physician and flown to Townsville. During their time on Woodlark they were visited by Americans of the Navy ( 20 the & 60th Seabees) bringing gifts of food, clothing and good wishes. I have photos of the Lockheed taken at that time showing the luck and Divine intervention that spared those brave Australian Airmen. My father being an " old man" of 34 years took a particular interest as time allowed in the young" Aussies" welfare and recovery. Later, while on leave in Brisbane he was very warmly treated by Australian Citizens. Here's to the Aussies and the " Kiwi's" . No better gallantry was ever exhibited by any ally.

[@scottsherman6889]

Thank you for sharing. God has His hands on us😊

[@joefrawley5295]

My wife and I have the pleasure of meeting Charles Hinman. In 2019 he personally gave us a tour of the Bowfin. Unfortunately the museum was at that point a hole in the ground. It was a bucket list item for me. Many, many thanks to Charles for extending the Museum's hospitality to my wife and I.

[@johnvogt5847]

In my mind, if you are brave (crazy?) enough to serve in a submarine, you deserve all the medals.

[@coachhannah2403]

My brother was one such crazy person...

[@cultureshock5000]

does the game silent hunter uboat or wolfpack count??

[@coachhannah2403]

@@cultureshock5000 - No, now go and change your armor.

[@benrobertson7855]

As a lifelong surface sailor,I can only imagine it’s something like being blind folded and only having instrument’s , gut feeling. Exquisite timeing and a way too big a slice of luck…regards Ben.

[@coachhannah2403]

@@benrobertson7855 - And that's for the people driving the boat. Imagine being a 'passenger' at the mercy of 'leadership.' (I guess that is common among military personnel).

[@parrot849]

One of your best episodes guys. Seth your final comments regarding MOH recipients certainly rings true. My father- in-law received the MOH as a Navy Corpman during the WW2 Battle of Okinawa, so it is doubly personal for me knowing someone can swing enough political influence to “fraudulently” but nevertheless legally acquire the MOH as Army General Douglas MacArthur did following his flight and abandonment of his command in the Philippines in 1942. Certainly should leave a bitter taste in the mouth of any American or anyone with a modicum of integrity knowing such a sacred decoration could be appropriated in such a way. MacArthur’s fellow senior military officers had a stewardship responsibility to see something like that should have never been allowed to take place. Big disappointment and shame on General George Marshall especially; a man I much admire, and still do, for allowing that blatant theft of valor to occur.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Who was your father-in-law?

[@parrot849]

@@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar Sorry, didn’t notice your reply to my original comments earlier. I was referring to H/A 1st Class Robert E. Bush, 2/5 Marines. He passed a few years ago. But he was an amazing individual. They dedicated the medical center at Twenty-Nine Palms USMC Facilities in his honor. He lost one eye during the fighting in Okinawa and sadly toward the end of his life he was losing his sight through Macular Degeneration in his other eye.

[@waynesmith8431]

Mac's MOH is the least deserved in the history of the U.S. military in my reading and studying the history of the award.

[@AdmiralYeti8042]

I read an old magazine article (the publication slips my mind, this was 20+ years ago) that told the story of “Ramage’s Rampage”. It read like a hard luck pitcher having a rough career and then pitching a perfect game his last time on the mound before retirement. Years later when I read “Clear the Bridge” for the first time and read about Tang’s night surface attack in the midst of an enemy convoy I had to look up both guys before I figured out that two guys actually existed within the same Navy that had the guts to pull off attacks like that. I swear the Balao class boats compensated for their lack of lead keel ballast with the weight of their skipper’s solid steel balls.

[@Titus-as-the-Roman]

The Growler's bow has become a Forward Rudder! Just watching it on it's journey back would have been something to see, keeping it traveling in the correct direction had to have been challenging.

[@coachhannah2403]

Three left turns equals a right turn...

[@BlitherVids]

All of these individual stories of valor are what makes this channel so special. A few of these I'd heard before, but never with the rich context that brings them to life in such a personal way. I want to thank Seth, Bill, and all of the great guests you have on once again for keeping it coming!

[@Boron121]

Good job of honoring our heroes. Their stories are too often forgotten or ignored. The "war" between the IJA & IJN was as important as any battle or campaign in the victory over Japan. Have you considered discussing this topic?

[@bughunter1766]

That would probably be a hard one to research the subject material for. Might have to collaborate with a Japanese writer who's already done the research in order to have enough facts to produce an episode.

[@mikeat2637]

@@bughunter1766 That would be the only way to get it done. The war between the IJN and the IJA would take about 6 or 7 episodes by itself. Though I think Richard Frank could be the only one in the US who could really take a shot at it. He has done a tremendous amount of research for his trilogy that began with Tower of Skulls. Historian HP Willmott has also delved deeply into that situation in his two books Empires In The Balance and The Barrier and the Javelin.

[@Jakal-pw8yq]

That would be a great if not difficult task to put that episode together. You'd have to find a Japanese historian who could come at this in a completely transparent unbiased fashion. Considering some of the actions and political stance of post-war Japan that would be difficult. I could be way off base here though. Great topic though.

[@chrismack5908]

I too have so enjoyed the relating of the Pacific theater during WWII. I told my husband if we get to Pearl, I must go to the sub museum. What an honor that would be. Thanks Seth and Bill, for bringing the past back into the present. So appreciated!

[@petestorz172]

My wife and I did a too quick visit to PH last month. Worth visiting near the USS Bowfin is the little memorial plaza with plaques for each USN submarine lost in WW2. Near the USS Missouri, on Ford Island, is the memorial to the men lost on the USS Oklahoma, a pillar for each of the men, giving their info. These memorials may not be as visually imposing as the Bowfin or Missouri, but they are sobering memorials to men lost in war.

[@GenDischarges]

Terrific episode chaps! Hey Bill, as an Australian who has watched all episodes in this series, I have never thought that you or Seth had an unbalanced view on the respective "value" of the lives of allies or even the enemy. Keep up the good work.

[@jovianmole1]

Thank you, sir. It was truly a "world" war.

[@briangibbs3774]

One of the most stirring chapters of history is that of the United States submariners in World War II. As a child, I was thrilled by each episode of RADM. Thomas Dykers' program, "The Silent Service". This led to a life-long study of those brave men and their exploits. I think I've read nearly every book ever published on this remarkable segment of history. This just threw more gasoline on the fire of my love of history in general. Thank-you, Gentlemen, for your gripping sagas of the Pacific War.

[@johnnyg3166]

Every single one off your guys podcasts are first class. Chuck is difficult to hear because he is very soft spoken. Other, another top notch performance as usual gentlemen.

[@JeffK1962]

Obviously, late to the podcast. I finally found the best real account of the situations our soldiers and sailors and pilots went though. Amazing stories of true heros. I have to say in a large part of my reflecting back on the series as a whole. It is a subject that needs to be told. To honor and learn from these heros. Thank you for the best thing i have ever seen on the internet. Subbed and loved every episode I have viewed. 2 weeks and seen season 1 and thus far in season 2. Absolutely cant get enough

[@DannyPavish-hd5qz]

Great show again. Seth, Bill, Chuck your work honors these Silent Service warrior captains.

[@ph89787]

When it comes to the Pacific war I tend to focus on the carriers (Enterprise for the win). But these episodes on the Submarines help expand my knowledge on their contributions.

[@ppumpkin3282]

Let's not forget, if the Natuilus hadn't been harassing the Japanese Carriers at Midway, the outcome of that battle might have been different.

[@ph89787]

@@ppumpkin3282 definitely can’t forget her.

[@ph89787]

@@ppumpkin3282 also later in the war. In addition to rampaging through the Japanese merchant fleet. The subs were extremely useful for search and rescue of carrier and later B-29 pilots.

[@grahamstrouse1165]

The impact of US submarines on the Pacific War rarely gets the attention it deserves. During the early years of WWII they were relegated to a critical but (mostly) supporting role in the early years thanks to BuOrd’s stubborn insistence that the Mk. 14 was ABSOLUTELY FINE. After Admiral King took BuOrd behind the woodshed and, shall we say, “gently persuaded” the Bureau to get the detonators sorted US submarines put an absolute stranglehold on Japanese shipping & logistics. Germany’s U-boats we’re a menace to allied shipping during the early years of the war but the German blockade was still penetrable, even during “The Happy Times.” After The Bureau of Ordnance was forced, kicking and screaming, to equip our submarines with functional torpedos American submariners turned the entire goddamn Pacific Ocean into the Bermuda Triangle as far as Japan was concerned. (Some people would have you believe that the Imperial Japanese Navy was the USN’s greatest foe in WWII. I would argue that they came in a close second to The Bureau of Ordnance. Fortunately for the Allies the Japanese Navy had a similarly implacable foe to divide their attention. The Japanese Army hated the Japanese Navy even more than BuOrd hated the USN.)

[@Hillhouse1956]

4:30 on a Tuesday morning and the first thing after starting a pot of coffee is to see if there is a new video ;). Thank you.

[@51tetra69]

God bless all the intrepid submariners and courageous veterans with nerves of steel who risked everything and sacrificed so much to protect our countries and preserve the freedoms we enjoy today! God bless all the souls - military and civilian - that we have lost in times of war! God bless America! God bless us all and grant us peace!

[@dougm5341]

Thanks Seth and Bill for all that you do. Your mission of educating is awesome….

[@dave3156]

Another superb program. Great that you take the war to the personal level so we begin to know more about the individuals who fought it. Were any crew members of these boats ever recognized for bravery also? Thanks Seth, Bill, and Chuck for a great program!!

[@jollyjohnthepirate3168]

Outstanding as usual gentlemen.

[@dank5032]

Nice foot note Bill. Well said

[@frankbodenschatz173]

Thank you both, and Capt Charles as well. Another beautiful show. Always look forward to these like others to drop and appreciate your hard work and research.

[@henriyoung3895]

Another AWESOME video. Thanks, take care CPT. Bill. SGT DOUG, RECON, 101ST, RVN 68-69

[@tedc.4956]

oh boy! It's Tuesday! Thank you so much.

[@jeffreymartin8448]

So cool to watch 2 ex-Commanding Officers hang out for a couple hours. Seth has a tough job.

[@GaryDunkelberger]

I now look forward to Tuesday's With Seth&Bill like I used to look forward to pizza&beer night - just as tasty and more fulfilling!!

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Easier on the waistline too.

[@rettif9]

Bill I understand your comments on the Medal of Honor recipients being the skipper because decision making fell on him exclusively. Crews were largely volunteers who worked with their officers to build a cohesive and effective level of performance. They also willingly went into harms way knowing the risks. If a unit award was earned by the crew in these heroic cruises it would be worth mentioning. If no such award exists perhaps it should. I'm not a veteran but I have followed this series with real admiration for the courage of those who served and interest in the lesser known actions the two of you have described. Thanks to both of you for your efforts.

[@thomasgarrison3949]

Thanks for another great episode.

[@JimBagby74]

We got our first "How-EVER " from Seth at 1'26". These episodes just wouldn't be the same without it! Thanks Seth, Captain Toti and Captain Merkel. My grandfather was in the Solomons with the Army so these shows are special.

[@jovianmole1]

"To your point". There are several Seth-isms.

[@JimBagby74]

Pourin' on the Coal!

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

How about "as hard as woodpecker lips..."

[@jovianmole1]

Seth...you are already a classic. BTW any books planned?

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

@@jovianmole1 maybe one day. If I ever get the time. And by the way, I have a couple new, but not new, “Seth-isms” inbound. You gotta remember, I used to hang out with 90 year olds. I adopted their lingo. Tighter than two coats of paint.

[@williamrobinson827]

Thanks and congratulations on yet another wonderful episode. And it was great to have been introduced to another fantastic "guest host". And you showed amazing restraint when referring to a single exception to the general rule of medal of honor recipients being modest and unassuming, that you did not bring up "Dugout Doug" by name.

[@gagamba9198]

Informative episode. Based on this channel's recommendation a few episodes ago I found online _Fading Victory: The Diary of Admiral Matome Ugaki, 1941-1945_ . Good read. Available for free for up to 14 days use at the organisation that Archives the internet. I mention this here because Ugaki writes about US submariners often. They were frequently praised, especially in '42 and '43 (and we know the Mark 14 was rubbish for most of the period). He admired their daring and lamented Japan's subs weren't pulling off the same feats. Over time the subs came to weigh heavily in the IJN's mind. Truk was constantly harassed - sometimes this was imagined. Pieces of driftwood were reported as subs and destroyers scrambled to interdict. Movements in an out of ports as far away Brunei and Singapore were cause for concern. Subs haunted them.

[@mattolliffe4539]

I have listened to almost every minute of these wonderful, illuminating, humorous, and respectful discussions, and I as an Aussie I have never felt you being disrespectful to the other Allies who were of necessity junior partners in the pacific war. I would perhaps have liked more on Milne Bay, but I think the US perspective as the senior partner is probably closer to the truth about what it actually took to win the war and not the many smaller but significant battles or moments. Thanks so much for this excellent podcasts.

[@Engineer1980]

Heroes all! Thank you Seth and Bill for remembering these exceptional and brave Naval Officers!

[@williamerickson1238]

In 1978 I was an 18 y/o Submarine School student standing my roving watch at "COMWELL HALL". In those days there were portraits of the heroes of the Silent Service. The portrait were accompanied by the citation awarded to those heroes, (nearly all were CMH recipients). I recall reading in AWE Capt. Cromwell's citation. At that point I knew I made the right choice to volunteer for submarine duty. 18 years later, I retired as a chief sonar technician from USS Grayling SSN-646. To Captain Toti: wondering if we crossed pathes 'back in the day'. I was on ASPRO (648) about the time you arrived in Pearl (78-79).

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Arrived Pearl in Dec 1980 but remember Aspro well.

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

I am glad you recognizing Captain Cromwell. His story is frequently overlooked overlooked in history. I think one thing that may be overlooked here in my reading Captain Cromwell volunteered for the mission. It is said that he wanted to at least go on one patrol. This patrol was supposed to be a relatively benign area. I can help I have the utmost respect for the man. Regardless of whether he had to be there he was there and he made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the service and his country.

[@saenole66]

Excellent episode as usual. These skippers were amazing men. Intelligent, innovative and above all brave.

[@paulohadyk5303]

Congrats guys 4 another wonderfully done show Seth and Bill U guys make history fun

[@LarryHobbs-y4d]

Question for the Indy nuke driver: I went aboard the USS Neosho (AO143) in the Med in 1962, just after Cdr. Slade Cutter had left as a very popular Exex. Being a Navy football fan, I knew the name. Later I learned of his medal-winning WW2 record with the Silent Service. I know he went own to Flag rank, but I have always wondered: Was it a comedown to be assignmed to an auxiliary fleed oiler after his wartime exploits? No insult intended. I loved the Neosho and was proud of having serving her under Pearl survivor Capt. Carey Hall.

[@LarryHobbs-y4d]

I

[@russfranck3491]

I sooo look forward to a new episode. Thank you for all you do. I’ll make a donation

[@marksherrill9337]

This has got to be the best history of the pacific theater. I have more appreciation for my father who served on a carrier.

[@redwingsphan]

I have watched many episodes and I have never felt so emotional. Remember the true heroes.

[@loom1565]

Great job

[@Titus-as-the-Roman]

Thanks! How Ironic (or was that just good program placing), with a Submarine show this week with the tragedy of the Titan Submersible Implosion. What can I say that hasn't been said

[@grahamtravers4522]

"The Sea is trying to kill you." (Captain Bill Toti)

[@keepall3818]

I hope that you are not comparing the implosion of a rich man’s toy with the sacrifices of brave men who died in service of their country.

[@Titus-as-the-Roman]

@@keepall3818 you know better than that, it's just submersibles were rich in the media right now.

[@MadLudwig]

My wife and I visited the USS Arizona and USS Bowfin in February of 1985 during our 1st wedding anniversary. I purchased a model of Arizona at the museum gift shop and it's still on display in our home today. I would love to revisit Pearl Harbor to see the new campus. There's something to be said about the skippers and crews who manned the US submarines of WWII. Their courage and tenacity in the face of a determined enemy was inspirational. While those of us who served understand why the Medal of Honor was mostly awarded to the sub skippers, one cannot help but feel that the crews should have been better recognized.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Bill responding: two episodes I filmed in Pearl Harbor coming your way.

[@michaelaiello2210]

My wife and I also visited the Arizona during our honeymoon. We first viewed the movie in the theater prior to going to the ship. Going into the theater was routine with plenty of talking, laughing and socializing. The movie was so profound that at the end everyone was somber with no laughing. I think that set the mood for visiting the ship. It put us in the correct frame of mind before visiting such a sacred was monument.

[@1redcougar175]

Super job guys, thanks so much for your hard work!

[@jovianmole1]

This episode was a bit dangerous listening to it to/from work. Tearing up hearing this episode. And, Bill & Seth, I have listened/watched every episode, some multiple times, and never once have heard or interpreted ANY comment denigrating our fabulous WW2 allies. I do not know where that comes from. Kudos.

[@billechols7136]

Great show gentlemen.

[@jeffholloway3882]

Side note on the Cromwell story, sculpin was involved in finding and the recovery of sqaulus when she sank, she was recovered, and recommissioned uss sailfish.

[@joetrombatore5704]

U guys do an amazing job. l always look forward to your episode’s.

[@frankbodenschatz173]

Thanks!

[@chriskostopoulos8142]

In regards to your comment at the end Bill, about an Australian listener who was having a dig at you about you talking about American lives being worth more than other allies, as an Australian myself I always knew what you meant and to be fair Americans had a lot of lives at stake compared to other western allies such as Australia. Your channel has always acknowledged allies where involved and I was very surprised you did an episode on the Kokoda trail by itself. The fact that your channel recognised it for the significant battle it was speaks volumes for your understanding of the whole pacific conflict. My only advise is keep doing what your doing as your podcast is an outstanding source of information and understanding about the pacific war.

[@MemorialRifleRange]

Thank-You

[@billyhouse1943]

Thank you..

[@jayjohnson9996]

Seth and Bill once again I really enjoyed this episode of The Unauthorized History of the pacific war of the battle of Tarawa. The marines fought to hold on to that island with tooth and nail. When I was in Louisiana I got a chance to visit the D-Day museum and when I visit the pacific side I was overwhelmed with so much of pacific war campaign in great details of individuals who command and fought. Please keep up the great work and I want you guys to know that I am a huge fan of you guys and that I love y’all show. Ps I’m looking forward to the next episode.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

I put those details in the WWII Museum. The story of the average fighting man and the deep details is what my career has been about since day 1.

[@jayjohnson9996]

@@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar Oh wow this gotta be Seth man that was you. I’m speechless I got chills as I was reading each of the Medal of Honor recipients from the battle. Now knowing that I see why I love the show the way I do. Job well done and I take my hat off to you!

[@patrickshanley4466]

Another great show. Saw Bill’s commentary on Los Angeles KTLA TV regarding the titanic “ mini sub” incident. You did great, a lot better than the movie director “expert “ 👍

[@StuartGivot]

Is there a link to that?

[@bennettrogers7921]

Same here.., btw LAFD retired?

[@StuartGivot]

@@bennettrogers7921 No. Only retired.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Thank you

[@tishomingo4524]

A good cigar, a few brown liquor adult beverages and an outstanding 2 hours with Unauthorized History. Again Gentlemen, you hit it out of the park. Thank you!

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

What kind of bourbon are we drinking?

[@tishomingo4524]

I'm from Tennessee and we like to do things our own way, including our whiskey. The cigar is an El Rey del Mundo Oscuro Robusto. Again, great work! @@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar

[@jimporter6084]

Thanks for your outstanding commentary. Please cover Samar Is in a detailed podcast, thanks.

[@stevep9818]

A little late in watching this episode but as always Bravo Zulu for another wonderful show. CAPT Merkle - the Bowfin and the revamped Pacific Fleet Submarine museum are two must see attractions if one is fortunate enough to be able to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

[@GaldirEonai]

1:08:56 "...okay, I think we may have made them angry."

[@rcwagon]

Great presentation. Thank you.

[@lesmoore6443]

Late to this comment section, but again an excellent informative episode, kudos as always to Bill and Seth. A travel note to anyone visiting San Diego. At the converted former Naval Training Center (now called Liberty Station) near the harbor there is the "52 Boats Memorial" dedicated to the US submarines lost in WWII ("on eternal patrol"). There's actually a plaque included to US sub losses outside of WWII, too. 52 granite markers with details of each lost boat, and markers with the names of all US submarine personnel KIA in WWII. It's a beautiful area (a spectacular base conversion, possibly the best, and historic in its own right for the enormous number of sailors trained there for WWII) and one should at least drive through it in any case, but just wanted to note this great WWII memorial for anyone visiting.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

There is one in Pearl Harbor too

[@gregorybrennan8539]

Their was a TV show in the 60s that featured this very same story," Silent Service." It had the Admeral sitting in the ward room drinking coffee.

[@sneakerset]

"The Silent Service" 1957-1958. There's a complete rundown on episodes along with a gallery of b/w photos (cast / crew / tech. advisors ) over at Imdb.

[@daverhoades5596]

Dad was on Cusk SS 348,station at Pearl.

[@gregcollins7602]

Another great torpedo Tuesday guys. Keep em coming. Dealey is well know in Texas. Seth I agree with you about the Medal of Honor recipients truly amazing people. However there is one Medal of Honor recipient that did want one, in fact he got the MOH the disaster of the Philippines. Kimble and Short were fired for the Japanese surprise attack. Macarthur got the MOH for an attack he knew was coming. His only regret is that he didn't get it as young as his father.

[@gregcollins7602]

@@leoamery actually I think the politicians gave him the MOH for using troops against his own WWI veterans. No I don't think he deserved it for his WWI action.

[@michaelaiello2210]

Sorry guys to sound like a broken record but can you tell the story of Toy Geiger’s pilot who helped sink a Japanese transport at Guadalcanal by rigging up a PBY to launch torpedos? It might take a 10 minute story but it would be most enjoyable hearing it, especially from Seth, who tells a heck of a story! Thanks.

[@xboxie1]

Outstanding content, Seth and Bill, your podcast has been the highlight of my Tuesday morning commute since E104. I know you've mentioned books, but is it possible for you to provide a list of books (on maybe your channel page?) that you reference or would recommend? I just finished "Shattered Sword", and I can't stop reading "Thunder Below" by Eugene Fluckey. Also, Bill, thank you for your service to our nation. I sent you an email regarding a question I had about a submariner you might know.

[@morganhale3434]

As important as the other missions that submarines for the USN and IJN did in the PTO, especially the undersea blockade of the Japanese home islands, I think that there use as the advanced scouts for the battle fleets during the war was arguably as important. Almost all of the great naval battles fought outside of the Solomons really begins with USN submariners alerting the Fleet that the IJN's Combined Fleet was on the move and their strength in ships and what classes of vessels they were. Every one of the battles at sea you have discussed how important intelligence (good or bad) had on the outcome of the battle.

[@walterrider9600]

thank yall . salute to those ppl that earned those medals . However how the He## did gen mac get one what a dishonor .

[@mitch8226]

Great talk, your comment "maybe one" must be a good yarn that will never be exposed ,rightfully so

[@yohahn2000]

Captain Toti referring to Jeju Island as "Jeju Do" (1:43), happy to hear him slip, using the present day Korean proper designation which roughly translates to "the province of Jeju". Fun fact, both Koreans and Japanese use this island as a vacation destination.

[@RodneyGraves]

I had the honor to reside in the Gilmore Room in Bancroft Hall...

[@vincentlavallee2779]

I took exception to your comment about Medal of Honor recipients, the 18.5% that were awarded posthumously. I think your comment was about this percentage over the entire history of the medal, starting in the Civil War. But your episodes are all about WW II, and fir WW II this was a VERY different percentage. Back in the 19th century, the Medal of Honor was awarded a lot more freely, where there have been nearly 3,000 medals awarded. While the Civil War was VERY gruesome, with more Americans dying in that one conflict than the sum of all other losses in all the other wars put together. But what is really amazing is that in WW II there were a total of 12-16 million 'soldiers', and perhaps about 1/4 of these saw or were involved in actual combat, whether that was directly or indirectly. So, to have ONLY 472 Medals of Honor awarded is amazing, and shows what utter gallantry/heroism was required to be awarded one. But more to my point here, 273 of these were awarded posthumously in WW II, well over 50%. Furthermore, today it is almost a requirement that it is awarded posthumously.

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

Here is a quirky twist of fate. Sam Dealey of USS Harder is the Grand nephew of the Texas businessman that the infamous Dealey plaza in Dallas is named for. The same Dealey plaza where are the assassination of president John Fitzgerald Kennedy took place. The lifeguard operations undertook by the United States submarine Force to my knowledge was unique to the u.s. Navy. American pilots could press home their attacks knowing if they could make it back to the carrier they could ditch at sea and a submarine would be out there trying to pick them up. You are correct it was a minesweeper that sank USS Harder. At the time USS harder was teamed up with another submarine, I don't recall the name, they heard bits of the battle over their hydrophones. Harder was supposed to rendezvous with the other submarine at a specific time and date. No trace of harder was ever seen after the original battle. While the battle was not witness by an American it was heard. They were able to make a determination that Harder had been lost pretty quickly. One thing that is often overlooked by the history books, Japan was having tremendous problems replacing the destroyers they had lost to date. Japan was never able to make good her destroyer losses during the course of the war. If you look at some of their escorts at some of their escorts developed during the war, it was obvious they were just trying to get holes in the water regardless of how they were equipped.

[@michaelaiello2210]

The Harder was sunk by an old 4 stacker, the ex USS Stewart that was recaptured, I think in Jave by the Japanese. She was damaged by te Japanese and placed in dry dock for repairs but the invasion by the Japanese precluded this The Stewart was demolished by the retreating Americans but the demolition was incomplete. She was refloated by the Japanese and repaired and subsequently used for escort duty. She was recaptured by the Americans at the rnd of the was.

[@waynedonham9438]

You need to do a show on Commander David Randle Hinkle, served aboard the SSN Nautilus under the Artic Ice Cap and after his distinguished service became the founder and CEO of Sonalyst Corporation.

[@anthonybush607]

It’s a common claim from those who look for any opportunity to criticize American Historians. They never take into account the subject being discussed or the context. They like to throw the megalomaniacal MacArthur around and pretend we’re all like that. It has been easy to tell the nationality of writers for decades simply by the way they cover the war. Each has their own biases that comes through in their work. I would strongly push back on the suggestion you’ve emphasized American deaths, sacrifices or anything else. You have done one of the best jobs I’ve ever seen in covering such a complicated subject as the Pacific War. I’ve read Morrison’s Naval History, Submarine Op’s in WWII (as well as Destroyer Op’s) along with every other book I could find in the last fifty plus years on the Pacific (and bought multiple copies of Shattered Sword to give as gifts, excluding my copy). Most Americans are well aware that we did not win the war alone. From Mexico and Brazil, to New Zealand and Australia, many countries contributed to the victory in World War II. Australia and New Zealand were crucial to the SWPac area of combat operations not to mention things like logistical support. We know this. There’s not another country in the world that is more similar to the United States than Australia. Nor probably a more beloved ally. Your topic today was about seven astonishing individuals and their crews in the USN. Your past podcasts have been about specific events/times and in each case have given due levity to the topic and people involved…regardless of origin. I don’t know how you can do any better than you have already but I’ll impatiently be awaiting your next installment. (Quick note to my friends in Latin America. I know you are Americans too and mean no disrespect by using the word to describe US citizens in this response.)

[@hdfoster5507]

Wasn't the sinking of Sculpin the second sinking of the salvaged and recommissioned Squalus?

[@StylinandProfilinBBsandBBQ]

Indeed! A great book called ‘A Tale of two sisters’ covers the story of the two subs.

[@liedenier]

Love the Channel.💪🎵

[@threecedarshomestead1330]

I haven't visited it yet (moved here in 2015), but the Batfish is just down the road from me. I did visit the Becuna (next to the Olympia, in Philly), back when I lived in NJ.

[@threecedarshomestead1330]

Weren't Sailfish and Sculpin linked by another incident? IIRC, Sailfish (under a different name) sank in a training accident, and the Sculpin found them a stayed with them until the survivors were rescued. Sailfish was raised, repaired, an renamed.

[@jerrywertelecky9543]

You guys are awesome. From a Marine Vet from 1979, When will you do Iwo Juma. Orahh!!

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Iwo will be quite a while from now.

[@jerrywertelecky9543]

@@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar thanks

[@ToddNeff-u6r]

Greetings, My compliments on a fantastic series. I grew up in Manitowoc, WI, so submarines are close to my heart. Admiral Lockwood had many nice things to say about Charles West and Manitowoc Shipbuilding. Have either of you had an opportunity to tour the USS Cobia that is moored at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum?

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Neither of us have

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

Having read many books regarding first-hand experiences on World War 2 submarines, I can honestly say more men deserve to be recognized with the Medal of Honor. Unfortunately the stories of the others men will never be told to having been sealed by faith on the bottom of the sea.

[@wyaskme2515]

I wonder if, when Commander Gilmore uttered “Take her down”, he felt he was sentencing his crew to a watery grave. Perhaps his intention, no less noble than what he was recognized for in this event, was to avoid the capture of the Growler and avoid the of type shame that landed on U-110 when it was captured.

[@aBRUSHforCONFUCIUS]

One of the most glaring differences was the Japanese commanders committing suicide. Also, the troops committing mass suicide too. It was a big waste of experience. The deaths of the commanders of Pelelui and Iwo Jima both developed novel defensive doctrine, which made taking the islands a slow, costly endeavor for the US.

[@damndirtyrandy7721]

Another winner!

[@mikeat2637]

Was Captain Cromwell one of THE Cromwell brothers who shone in the US Navy in WW !!

[@Kevin-fd3uc]

Dealy Plaza in Dallas where JFK was assassinated was named for Sam Dealy’s uncle

[@stevep9818]

Apologies for misspelling CAPT Merkel’s name. Also was just reading Stephen Moore’s book “Strike of the Sailfish” in which he discusses the sinking of Sculpin and he reports one of the survivors, Chief Hemphill, stating that it was the temporary diving officer, Ensign Fiedler, whose error had resulted in Sculpin’s inopportune broach, who was seated at the wardroom table playing Solitaire and also chose to go down with his sub.

[@USSBB62]

Bill, Seth, and Chuck. An Army Col. or even General for that matter. Doesn't have to be on the front line. But the Captain of the Ship or Boat does.

[@keithrosenberg5486]

Do an episode on logistics in the Pacific war.

[@denniswiemer72]

Is the ‘Growler’ in NYC the same one of Gilmore’s story? I remember it was converted post war to be capable of launching missiles.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Sadly, no. This Growler was sunk in 1944

[@nickhomyak6128]

Combat Veterans are Survivors out of the Mix; gunner fodder of luck and disciplines maintained with luck and randomness.

[@v.mwilliams1101]

Excellent, as usual. Thank you. Query, did sub captains ever return to command after a rest break? Or, move on to shore duty.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

I don't think so. But XOs who had 10 war patrols did return to sea as CO to do more (like Ned Beach).

[@joebombero1]

Here is a question I would love if you couod answer; were any Dutch Naval vessels able to survive the entire Pacific campaign?

[@724bigal]

I heard a U.S. Submarine once rescued a pilot from Tokyo bay by raising its periscope and the pilot hanging on and dragging him in a raft to a safe distance then surfacing to bring him aboard.

[@mustavogaia2655]

Is there a designation for ships/captains that sink a number of ships, just like "ace" for fighter pilots?

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

There is not

[@charlesziel1997]

For Bill and Chuck. For the two retied sub drivers, of the modern day sub movies, which is the best, Hunt for Red October or Crimson Tide? Great content, as usual.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

ha! Bill responding-- I was involved in the making of Crimson Tide while I was XO of a Trident submarine (USS Florida). Would it be imprudent to say that I prefer Hunt? But my fave at the moment is still Das Boot.

[@robertdendooven7258]

@@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar I would love to hear your thoughts on another Tom Clancy book. That would be Red Storm Rising and the tactics used by USS Chicago in the book. Thanks.

[@elwin38]

YOU AINT LYING SETH!!! The Medal of Honor is VERY DIFFICULT to achieve and be honored. I made the HUGE mistake in another comment section on another page/video of saying "won the M of H and got a lot of heat/backlash for that!!🔥🔥🤦🏾‍♂

[@cultureshock5000]

i have a few moh and bronze and silver stars and a few sake cups from video games...