The Great Marianas Turkey Shoot-Battle of the Philippine Sea Part 1 with Jon Parshall-Episode 313

This week Seth, Bill and wingman Jon Parshall take a very deep dive into the first day of the Battle of the Philippine Sea, June 19, 1944, better known as The Great Marianas Turkey Shoot. The trio looks at the Japanese plans, how they fell into American hands, and all the drama and intrigue between US Admirals as the largest Japanese fleet yet put to sea in the war heads straight for Task Force 58. The decisive battle that the Japanese hung their hopes on turns into one of the biggest routs in Naval history in the largest carrier battle of the war. Tune in and see what the team has to say.
For more on the Battle of the Philippine Sea, check this other episode out:
• The Mission Beyond Dar...
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[@emerald640]

I've studied WW2 for fifty years and every time I think I hear a mistakes I look it up and find you're right and I'm wrong. This is so much better than channels that throw video clips of wrong equipment with wrong facts with out regard for accuracy. THANK YOU

[@carstenwagner3355]

Dear Gentlemen, at 3:55 Seth Paridon said the audience is not watching because of him. This is surely a mistake. The way you present the History of the Pacific War together with Bill Tody and in this episode Jon Parshall, is exactly the reason for watching this channel. And I think most of the viewers would agree on that.

[@ppumpkin3282]

These guys worry to much about viewer comments. Just keep doing what you're doing. Full speed ahead.

[@TomCrouchman.]

yup

[@juhoarens3122]

IMO the duo is masterful in their presentation. Seth provides the driving force in moving the narrative forward and Bill fills in the seams and clarifies key points.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

@@juhoarens3122 many thanks. Been doing this a looooong time.

[@flparkermdpc]

You aren't thaaaaaat ooooold.!!!!

[@wrightsublette1701]

Damn Seth, “ TF58 turned west, opened up the taps to 25 knots, and went on the Hunt.” Brought tears to my Cold War Gunners Mate eyes… Bravo Zulu Gentlemen. LOVED this episode..

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Loved writing that one.

[@curtismoore776]

Forget about top ten WWII podcasts, this is #1 in my opinion. I think everyone enjoys it so much because it IS like you guys are having a conversation about it at a bar or diner. My favorite episode so far guys. It was a treat meeting you guys and Jon at the International WWII Conference.

[@jovianmole1]

Hear, hear.

[@jimlattimer5304]

@@jovianmole1 away all boats

[@williamcoolidge9884]

I visited the National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg, Texas on Sunday. I walked into the Midway section and immediately heard a familiar voice. Jon Parshall on a video discussing the battle! Good times.

[@jonparshall]

I've been up on that wall for years. One of these days they'll wise up and find someone less bald! 🙂

[@morganhale3434]

What I love about this battle is that the Silent Service did yeoman's work during this campaign. They fulfilled, by hook or by crook the fleet submarine's role envisioned by pre-war doctrine in this conflict.

[@haldorasgirson9463]

Classic fleet sub mission.

[@flparkermdpc]

I got my thumbs up in, AND this comment for a double thumbs up. Both of those carrier killing subs came along at exactly the right time. The USN torpedoes began exploding when they hit a target, giving the Japanese destroyers something to do besides anti-submarine depth charging!

[@johnvogt5847]

Best 20 minutes of my day. Oh, wait, it was over 2 hours! Thanks guys and Merry Christmas to all.

[@alexhensley-om3sh]

Certainly was over well before I thought two hours passed. Good stuff as always.

[@robertstack2144]

Yes, when it's an excellent PC, time is up when you are expecting and wanting more.

[@happybuddha563]

As a History teacher, I am enjoying this podcast so much. Discussing it with colleagues I was explaining that Seth was that rare historian that can pitch history within that sweet spot between Herodotus and Thucydides. History needs to be accessible to the masses, yet still accurate and rigorous. Bill, with his technical knowledge is sublime, while your occasional “wing man” John, is an outstanding intellect- a guy I take notes from. Magnificent effort and product gentlemen.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Many thanks for the kind words.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

And we would have to cover the Peloponnesian War in the Unauthorized History of the Mediterranean Wars, which we ain't doin'.

[@flparkermdpc]

Alright, Happybuddha, Put Herodotus and Thucydites "on the blackboard" and ask for students to pronounce those names. You probably have made a believer or two, so don't let your best student smart guy or girl be the spoiler. Hand out the chance to shine, or blush, around the room. Then expand. Who ARE these guys? Why are they important? Socrates would be proud. Keep up the good work. I'll pray for us all. Seth, Don,t worry we all know Herodotus personally. We're that old.

[@theeducatedgrunt2087]

I love you guys. You make my mornings good... A cup of coffee with Seth and Jon and Capt Toti makes my day a little bit better...

[@flparkermdpc]

ONE cup??LOL!

[@CorePathway]

I’m just bummed that his voice is going to cancel the Todi’s tour. “ I come from the water” is my favorite song of theirs. Fitting too.

[@michaelhollman9470]

Seth, Bill, (and Jon) - Have a Blessed Christmas and Joyous New Year!

[@ph89787]

There's a certain irony with the Philippine Sea. In that, the IJN was fielding 4 Carriers: Shokaku, Zuikaku, Jun'yo and Zuiho, who had fought against other carriers before. The US Navy was only bringing in one, the ever-present and vengeful Enterprise. Yet because of the downgrade in pilot training and throwing away most of their surviving veterans in the Solomons during 1943. The IJN wasn't able to leverage the experience. Whereas the USN were able to rotate their veteran pilots back and after some time, transfer them back to the front. Were able to bring their all-powerful Essex-Class and Independence-Class Light Carriers up to speed.

[@davidelliott5843]

The Japanese (and the Germans) failed to see the value of keeping experienced men for training new recruits. They just used them until they were gone.

[@RodneyGraves]

@@davidelliott5843 The Japanese didn't plan on a long war and in consequence paid insufficient attention to logistics, both their own, and the vulnerabilities of their opponents logistical tail.

[@davidelliott5843]

Perhaps Germany made the same decisions.

[@alexhubble]

Basically, when you boil down the size of country, resources, industrial capacity, can-f*ing-do attitude - the Japanese picked absolutely the wrong opponent in an arse kicking contest.

[@RodneyGraves]

@@alexhubble The Japanese believed, until the very end of the war, that the United States was soft, had no stomach for combat, and would settle diplomatically.

[@flparkermdpc]

I am never surprised at the frequency of "dad never talked about it". Talking about the war had to bring up the faces of friends who never grew old.

[@flparkermdpc]

Merry Christmas to all, Seth, Bill and Jon and all my fellow subscribers and promoters who provide reinforcement and enthusiam. 😊

[@JimRibby]

Two amateur observations. First is the loss and recovery of the Japanese battle plans reminds me of the loss and recovery of Lee's special order 191 just before the battle of Antietam. The second is Ozawa's plan to use land based aircraft to help balance the odds reminds me of Nimitz's plan to use MIdway island as an unsinkable aircraft carrier to help even the odds at the battle of Midway. I have heard it said that history doesn't repeat itself but it often rhymes. I'm really enjoying your efforts on this channel. Thanks for all of your work.

[@slimeydon]

Terrific episode as always. Jon’s shirts rule! If the turkey shoot was a softball game they would’ve used the mercy rule

[@colinellis5243]

For what its worth, I think your informal format is what makes your excellent coverage of the PTO so greatly entertaining. Also guys the fact that you get John P coming back again and again is a sign of how superb, balanced and enjoyable your format is. John is undoubtedly the finest PTO historian of his era so his repeated attendance is another Bravo Zulu to you both. Bill I also hope you feel better soon!

[@cheesenoodles8316]

Excellent. What a journey from the heady days of rarly 1942 to the "Turkey Shoot". My goal is to rewatch a favorite episode drinking a "Suffering Basterd". It should include Jon and everytime he says "shot to pieces" I take a drink. A fine series, and I have been soaking up Pacific War history since a lad.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Both Jon and I prefer Mai Tais. Bill likes his CINCPAC.

[@jovianmole1]

This is a rum lovers blaspheme...but I will try it anyway.

[@flparkermdpc]

We're you able to finish the episode or did you get all "shot to pieces"?LOL!

[@flparkermdpc]

​@jovianmole1 is the Cincpac the rum lovers blasphemy you refer to, or the Mai Tai? 2:30

[@pokipua]

I really love this podcast. I enjoy when you also invite John parshall to be part of the show. My Dad worked for 40 years at pearl harbor shipyard. He was a civil engineer who worked on balancing subs. He received 5 commendations from 5 different admirals. He would always tell me this growing up. Good job guys !

[@briangibbs3774]

Gentemen: Please keep your podcast just the way it is. The sponteneity is a large part of the enjoyment I receive. The informality that you and your guests display makes me feel that I am in a room with other lovers of history. Every Tuesday evening,is my "alone time" with you good people and a trusty glass (or two) of lager.

[@jonparshall]

Lager is a great idea!

[@jamesthompson8133]

Yep,that early I have to go with a screwdriver for breakfast..I’m retired so I can pull that off. My favorite day of the week for sure!

[@0giwan]

Hard agree, about the informality.

[@jamesthompson8133]

You guys are great! You have become like family. Look forward so much for Tuesday mornings! Thank y’all so much for being like buddies! Y’all do an incredible job making history so much fun! Happy thanksgiving to all! Keep up the great work! Thanks again guys!!!

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Our pleasure!

[@kepple83]

I love this channel thanks SETH CAPT BILL and jon

[@johnjackson4322]

Gracious, please, please keep up the conversational, round table format. Unscripted does NOT mean unresearched or uninformed, as you confirm quietly week after week. It's refreshing to hear intelligent opinions discussed without drama.

[@CorePathway]

Just say no to podium presentations.

[@jimgrundy1278]

As a Brit, I know next to nothing about the campaigns in the Pacific. But your podcast has been a real eye-opener. Thank you for the huge amount of work that goes into producing all of this. It's a real benchmark for me when looking at the work of others covering the subject. Thanks again.

[@alanrichtmyer2309]

Dear Seth, Bill, and John... I watch & listen because my father flew B-29s off of Saipan 1944-45 and he never said a word about it to his three sons until it was almost too late. So I am grateful for your unflagging efforts to keep the stories & memories of the Pacific war alive.

[@henriyoung3895]

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you and your family's. Again, thank you for your hard work and enthusiasm. PS, say hi to Jon too. SGT DOUG, RECON, 101ST, RVN 68-69, LZ SALLY

[@flparkermdpc]

I'm sure these memories bring up the faces of friends who never grew old.

[@Ultrad321]

My grandfather was a mechanic for those B-29s on Saipan at the same time I've heard some stories through my dad about what it was like there.

[@greyowl7869]

RESPECT. Velox Versutus Vigilans

[@MrFrikkenfrakken]

There are many points of enjoyment in these podcasts/videos - Seth's depth of knowledge on the topic, Bill's employment of the necessary maps and additional naval expertise, if a guest is included the wonderful insight and information they bring. In this episode for example Jon brings such well spoken and reasoned points and of course there is the vital answer of what shirt selection will clash with the excellent wallpaper. I kid a bit there but this certainly is time well spent.

[@jonparshall]

The wallpaper just *makes* it, doesn't it?!? :-)

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

@@jonparshallwe need to get a scan of the paper and all have matching shirts made from the pattern.

[@brovold72]

I feel as if I could be pals with any of these fellows, though they're all very different from one another (and from me). Realistically, that's probably just a sign that they're very good at what they do.

[@hans_von_twitchy1014]

@1hr: good on Lee for "not, repeat, not" wanting a BB battle. Very few leaders escape the "If you've got a hammer, everything looks like a nail" syndrome. He effectively said, "Best to leave this to the airboys; my BB's will just do after-battle cleanup." I can imagine how tempted he would've been. That guy had his ego firmly in check. Raises my opinion of him considerably. (PS. your podcast is now on the top of my list of "Oh, goody, there's another one of these to watch/listen too." And it's over two hours and is only part one of two! Happy days!)

[@curtiscriscoe367]

When you said, mitcher chose the mission objective over personal glory, I imidiately thought of McArthur

[@CorePathway]

Narcissists gonna be narcissists. Why would they? It’s their world, we’re just the supporting cast, fuel for their egos.

[@danielbackley9301]

Not Mitscher but Spruance who rightfully recognized that the mission was to capture Saipan and not get sunk or forced off the island.

[@flparkermdpc]

Mìtscher hated the decision to stick by the Saipan mission, and play defense. Mitscher did command that defense and ironically it turned out to be the most memorable air victory of the island campaigns. Everyone who has read anything about the Pacific war has heard of the Marianas Turkey Shoot. It destroyed the air group rebuild the Japanese had done over 1943 since Yamamoto was killed, wiped out in this one day, fought in the manner and place of the enemy's choosing! I think the photo of Alex Vraicu's six finger salute is second only to Joe Rosenthal's Iwo Jima flag planting on Mount Suribachi. Also ironic is the disastrously bad decision Mitscher made the next day in sending his pilots off into the setting sun. That decision caused the deaths of many of his beloved aviators when they couldn't find their way back home, and the loss of a lot of aircraft whose crews were rescued. The outcome of day two of Phillipine Sea made no difference whatsoever in the course of the war. Day one was monumental. Day two was a stupid waste for little gain. Mitscher was no Spruance, even when given a third chance. Chasing glory for its own sake is never cost effective.

[@morganhale3434]

Wonderful show and a brilliant performance by Bill, Seth, and Jon. The biggest difference between all of the earlier carrier battles and the Battle of the Philipine Sea is the complete lack of flying boats and heavy bombers doing reconnaissance for the fleet. Probably only the Battle of the Coral Sea is where the USN was as blind in long range reconnaissance as it was at Phil Sea. Lack of contact on patrol vectors is just as important as contacts from other patrol vectors because it narrows down the fog of war.

[@RodneyGraves]

Negative search contact is not evidence of enemy absence...

[@morganhale3434]

Boooo!!!! So, commanders send out units to do reconnaissance and don't believe their reports? The whole point of reconnaissance is to give you a near enough approximation of the battlefield to make an informed decision. The point is to make a decision and not be indecisive in your command. That was ultra-weak sauce. @@RodneyGraves

[@flyer3000]

This show keeps getting better. The last few weeks have convinced me to take a side trip to Saipan (and hopefully Tinian) in February during a Tokyo trip that I already had scheduled.

[@flparkermdpc]

Watching this episode again after two years of watching previous issues. I always find something new, likely another book from a group of authors whose work is THE go to reference on their particular subject. Rich Frank, Jonathan Parshall, and the late James D. Hornfischer, Are a start, but read their Acknowledgements, and the library is endless...Thanks, enthusiast scholars!

[@jovianmole1]

Hear, hear. Hornfischer's "The Fleet at Flood Tide" is the perfect companion read to this episode.

[@jaymacpherson8167]

Those two-plus hours flew by. Thank you again for your exemplary services.

[@cynthiacarrithers1832]

Merry Christmas to you and your families! Thank you for your work on retelling the history of the sacrifices and courage of the greatest generation.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Same to you!

[@lakeman_gj]

Great podcast. This was the BIGGEST carrier battle EVER fought.

[@DanielGroh-up1tk]

I think that you are doing wonderful job. History is retelled by you in a friendly manner. But your insight and understanding is perfect. Keep on. Wish you all the very best from Czech Republic!!

[@flparkermdpc]

Your English is really good. I don't know a single word of a Slavic language. 😊

[@DanielGroh-up1tk]

@@flparkermdpc Thank you. Learning english is much easier for a Slav. Learning czech, polish, slovak, russian etc. is very difficult for english speaking person. And by the way... You almost certainly know a single word in Czech... It is ROBOT... Invented by Josef Čapek, brother of novelist Karel Čapek. Comes from old czech word "robota" means "work".

[@lakeman_gj]

Greets from neighbour from Poland! Ahoj! 😂

[@DanielGroh-up1tk]

@@lakeman_gj Dzien dobry!

[@flparkermdpc]

HAHA! So there is hope for this old first grader? I'm going to suggest to everyone: think about eliminating contractions when you write, or especially when you dictate. A lot of us dictate our notes and "you are" is transcribed as your instead of you're. There can't be that many people who don't know the difference as show up on my screen? I hope.! Soli deo gloria! And Merry Christmas!

[@woodscrewz363]

The best part of my Tuesday is watching these episodes after work. And thanks again for having Jon on, he adds so much to these already outstanding videos.

[@morganhale3434]

Again, this is awesome!!!! Plus, Super Jon Parshall is here.

[@N2NDF]

Out of all the podcasts I listen to watch. Hands down yours is the best. The way you present the information by having retired naval personal that have the history learning from their predecessors in the service, other guests who truly research their own channels, has drawn my in from those "commercial podcasts" I thought I knew a lot of the pacific theater during the war. But I'm learning so much more that I didn't even know that happened. Thank you!! Keep them coming!!

[@SamTaylors]

Another brilliant episode guys. But you’re wrong about just one thing - it’s not just the history we come for, it’s to see you guys tell it. Especially love the episodes with John Parshall

[@sprintcarfan87]

Another great show. Tuesdays are my favorite day of the week because of your show.

[@richardw2566]

This show just keeps getting better. Ya'll need to make Mr. Parshall a permanent part of the team. Great show. Thank you very much!

[@jovianmole1]

Jon would be a great addition, but I also enjoy his appearances on other channels.

[@flparkermdpc]

Here we are several months after the Phil Sea episode and Seth is referring to Jon as "the other member of our team!" By popular demand and Jon's own merit!

[@ThePlebicide]

Thanks very much for this fascinating work. Hope you and your families have an enjoyable Christmas.

[@robertzimmerman6772]

Holy cow, that was fun. Been anxiously waiting for this episode. The "turkey shoot" was almost as good as the Thanksgiving turkey this year. Merry Christmas to you Seth, Bill and Jon. Bless you all for your outstanding work.

[@darrelllovett4722]

The title is "Unauthorized History of the Pacific War;" but the reality is the "AUTHENTIC HISTORY OF THE PACIFIC WAR!"

[@StoryboardMindset]

Thank you for the early Christmas present. You guys are on point as always!

[@Perfusionist01]

Another really fine job! First, regarding format; personally, I like the "informality". If I want a formal, scripted presentation, there are lots of books on the battle. I enjoy the banter and I love the nuggets of information that come out of your conversations. Second, Jon Parshall is a huge asset when it comes to the carrier battles (and other areas). Your use of specialists researchers really enhances the presentation. Third, I love hearing Bill explain about submarine operations! I admire him more with each story he tells. It's one thing to read about a ship, tank or other equipment, but to hear someone who has "been there, done that" really puts things together for those of us who didn't serve. His sharing of experiences brings life to the technical description of the battles. I have been a "WW2 buff" for most of my life (and I'm now 72) and you guys are teaching more with every session. Thanks to all of your team for doing this project.

[@flparkermdpc]

If you have grand kids, make sure they see these. This history needs to become a ministry. You and I grew up with greatest generation survivors, and have proof that they existed. Today's culture would have it otherwise.

[@alangreer1142]

Excellent job as always. I love the fact that your informal. I couldn't imagine this podcast being done any other way! Any ideal how many pilots became "Aces" during this particular engagement? It's getting close to Christmas now, so I'll wish you (all) a happy and safe holiday!!

[@williamrobinson827]

I believe that there were 4 who became "ace in a day": Charles Brewer (five), George Carr (five), Alexander Vraciu (six), and Wilbur Webb (six+). There may have been others who became aces but had prior kills.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

@@williamrobinson827ace in day usually refers to guys who snagged five plus and had five or less than five prior. Alex had 12 before Phil Sea.

[@flparkermdpc]

@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar Seth, Bill, and Jon, several comments have supported the conversational format. I would imagine it's more fun for you men now that you have unequivocal victory to pass around, except that the messy ground war keeps interrupting with reminders that ťhe hand to hand stuff stays awful to the end. The banzai melee had to happen given the culture the Marines were fighting, I guess, but the major screw up with securing the line by the 27th showed that firing a general wasn't enough to keep the 27th from a disaster that they had a large had in making worse.

[@alangreer1142]

Thanks for the response.

[@spidrespidre]

You guys have hit a special vein. Solely focused on the Pacific theatre (the ETO has had much greater coverage) and in a greater detail than most any other channel. And 95%+ of your listeners/viewers prefer to have the story bounced around between you rather than a script. We can all read books if we'd like ... Onto the 'did Spruance make the right call' question, yes, certainly as he saw it. Play to your strengths ... and when those strengths combined render Japanese tactics irrelevant (Godzilla vs Dandruff) then the overriding importance of protecting the Saipan invasion force dictates that the dogs remain on the proverbial leash. Anyway, what's a carrier force without aircraft and trained aviators? It's a decoy ... and how ironic that Halsey did the polar opposite at Leyte and came damned close to not getting away with it. Along with everyone else here, I look forward to "the [meatball] hunt" next week.

[@flparkermdpc]

Re Halsey at Leyte. Right on. I think he was burned out after '42 and '43, didn't know how to handle an embarrassment of riches. He was criminally wasteful, and didn't realize how good the Navy around him, and its people, had become and that they didn't need him I think Nimitz could be faulted for failing to recognize war weariness as an entity. He sure saw it after seeing it in Admiral Gormley, and others he did relieve. Unfortunately, Halsey had become a media icon, and deserved a place over the fireplace rather than in the thick of it when he'd come to think that he and his fleet were invincible. Two typhoons just about put pay to that idea, more forcefully than the Japanese were capable of by this time. I recall how Nimitz was called to account for grounding his vessel, but that was a different time before the concept of too big to fail. There were others who needed relief, too, but who didn't didn't get it until they were dying. McCain and Lee come to mind. Lee is an example of one who didn't need a boss, in fact was damaged by having Halsey as his boss. Halsey had become only a little less narcissistic than MacArthur. Both needed executive retirement.

[@spidrespidre]

​@@flparkermdpc - I hadn't thought of Halsey in that fashion but you're right. Previously, in looking at Leyte I kinda thought it to be a combination of factors and that Halsey was under the impression that more heavies (BBs/CVs) were in the direct vicinity of the beaches to counter that risk. The other big factor was the assumption that what was left of Kurita's Centre Force was scuttling back from whence it came. Ultimately, it could be argued that it comes down to Nimitz's failure to recognise that Halsey had become a liability. Regardless of what we think and discuss here in the comments, it should whet our appetite for Seth & Bill (and hopefully Jon too) to tackle this very subject in the not too distant ...

[@flparkermdpc]

We have certainly gotten your wish fulfilled. It's near four full months after the Christmas Phil Sea episode and Jon is now introduced by Seth as "the other member of our team". And Halsey has taken a drubbing since Christmas of 2023. It's too bad "Ching Lee" and Halsey weren't swapped out in time to make a difference to a lot of sailors. Lee as a New Englander would have understood what typhoon warnings meant to small boats. And he would have felt the barometer drop in his bones.

[@alexhubble]

Been waiting for this, Spruance's finest hour. And of course you guys delivered!

[@dougeurom2141]

Context FYI for everyone that might not know. A Turkey shoot is a community marksmanship competition with a turkey as a prize. Generally as much of a social gathering as a competition.

[@flparkermdpc]

So this is a greater misnomer than I realized. But I was curious about it, because hunting turkeys is difficult and requires patience and skill, and one is fortunate to get ONE, Not bunches.

[@danasmith3288]

The Trifecta, Seth, Bill & Jon.

[@tedc.4956]

Oh Boy! It's TUESDAY!!! I am sure it was just a "coincidence" that the GMTS was recorded the week of Thanksgiving. ;-) You three are the perfect combo and riff on each other's leads beautifully. The analysis of Spruance's decision making was particularly interesting and thorough. He saved so many lives and ensured success with his prudent decision making process and his understanding the significance and weaknesses of intelligence sources. Kudos gentlemen, another great episode.

[@brunosmith6925]

While I have always been interested in major global armed conflicts, I've not spent much time learning about US military history... and then I discover a programme like this one and find out that I have been missing out on some incredible stories. A superb presentation. Thank you so much for sparking a new interest in aspects of a subject I was previously ignorant of.

[@frodenordseth4519]

Love the combination of 2x history experts and the navy officer who can comment on doctrine and leadership (on top of excellent history knowledge) Amazing as always guys - second time listening today😎

[@ddvd]

I appreciate the work you guys put into all of these videos. I have learned so much since I found this channel. Y'all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

[@JohnnySmithWhite-wd4ey]

Always the high point of the week for me. I've been aboard Cavalla. She sits at Sea Wolf park near Galveston, Texas.

[@johnprekezes8881]

I love watching this show every week, the commentary and the content is very enlightening

[@OMMgreenshirt]

My father served aboard USS Bunker Hill (CV-17) at that time as a signalman (skivvy waver) at the "flag boards" station. He referred the Great Marianas Turkey Shoot as "busy days". I can't wrap my head around how many times he must have seen so many missions flown while at his station.

[@stephenlawyer3031]

Please, Please continue, don't stop. I look forward to the release every week. Thank you so much.

[@richardrigling4906]

You guys have WAY too much fun presenting these. Another good lesson.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

Glad you like them!

[@OpusXtr]

I served on the USS Cavalla (SSN684) in the 80s, [ELT, MM1(SS)]There was a copy of the log entries from the day of sinking of the Shokaku onboard. The rest of that story was getting depth charged for hours after the attack. I’m sure they would have appreciated it if an air strike had happened to break up that party. You gotta know that having two of your fleet carriers sunk at the beginning of the fight by subs isn’t in anyone’s battle plan.

[@StylinandProfilinBBsandBBQ]

This group makes sure the subs get their glory! We did great work for this battle and it’s just a precursor to Leyte gulf coming up. Hooyah submarines! Signed, MMAC(Aganger)

[@Thumpalumpacus]

Great as usual. I just want to wish Seth, Capt Bill, Jon, and all here a happy Christmas -- may all y'all's holidays be filled with joy, love, and happiness.

[@islandhopperstuart]

The way the three of you bounce experience and knowledge off each other is just excellent. Jon's input makes these discussions 'top drawer' and, I beg you to keep him in to give his perspective. Getting Drach in too would be great! It's a KZbin phenomenon, but these 'bar room chats' in which we partake merely as passive observers both enrich our lives and provide a kind of 'friendship' which we cannot reciprocate, yet the bond between us through the 'ether' is still present. Long may this continue.

[@briankorbelik2873]

My favorite form of history is a couple of guys, sitting around, jawing about it, proferable with a couple (Or more) of beers. My late best friend and I often engaged in this sort of history discourse, and since his passing, I miss very much. Good on you guys!

[@Godussop81]

Just wanted to say I and I’m sure everybody else appreciates what you guys are doing, this information is absolutely priceless and I wish more people took an interest in this incredibly important topic

[@colinellis5243]

Sorry! Just realised my spell checker was converting Jon to John. All the same an excellent analysis of Philsea day #1 in an excellent informal format, by three superb historians despite no mention of "Beating Feet" to let us drink

[@jamest6837]

I've never seen a breakdown of the battle like this before, this was fantastic! my dad was a tail seat gunner at all the big battles in the pacific and won 4 air medals during the war and he was proud of this battle and midway the most...he was in squadron VS8 and i have an air medal citation signed by admiral Halsey he won at the battle of santa Cruz ....thanks for this one.. subscribed!

[@alexkalish8288]

The story was never so well narrated gentlemen. The absolute cold blooded bravery of the Japanese pilots is striking. I met Alex at an airshow a few decades ago and got his signed picture. Tex Hill was there and several of the cactus air force. In his narration of his big day, I asked why he had flown under the formation - he said the reflection from the water made the planes hard to see. He went under the formation to ID the aircraft undercarriages in shadow and thus contrasted against the sky. . What a nice and happy disposition he had. I did not know he was was the navy's leading fighter jock at that time.

[@davemurphy7126]

This battle I believe is the coming to gather of many many things! First our subs were on point, tracking, reporting and sinking! Are airmen were trained by war fights, not trained to fly but to fight. Or ability's fight a carrier has grown so much form when we started. And last but not least, the screening of all the those support vessels! Thanks Unauthorized what a great episode.

[@jammininthepast]

Seth, Captain Toti & Jon, I think you are all top notch historians [and writers], I enjoy your presentations immensely. Keep up the good work. Thank you you're appreciated.

[@williamharvey8895]

Only person missing now is Drachinefel. Awesome team.

[@Sshooter444]

you better search some past shows!

[@frankbodenschatz173]

The three of you do such a great job of presenting irs a joy to wake up every Tuesday morning and listen in!

[@Swoose17]

Superb Episode. Loved It. Thank You!

[@user-hw1qo2mu9e]

Thank you Bill Seth and Jon! It's always great but especially when Jon's here.

[@Jakal-pw8yq]

That's an amazing point that Jon made about the effect of the battle of the Philippine Sea leading directly to the kamikaze attacks. You can't get more desperate than that.

[@mikelinderman8514]

it looks like SOF has given us a great Christmas present with this episode. Merry Christmas to the best podcast crew out there!

[@derrickcochran4180]

Thank you so much it just keeps getting better and better

[@jonathanmorton9856]

Great fun. Thanks guys.

[@JehuLaw]

I look forward to Tuesday every week..thanks for what y’all do

[@DannyPavish-hd5qz]

A master class period, Thank you for your work,

[@robertburckert8567]

After last week's episode I think we all needed this one!

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

You ain't kiddin.

[@ericwalsh7418]

Thanks for the great content Gentleman. Love the channel and always look forward to new episodes on Tuesday morning. I really enjoy the bar room banter style of the podcast however, your episodes are different than most banter because it is fact based. I also love the fact that Seth had the privilege of knowing so many veteran's that serves in the PTO and is using that platform to tell their stories. My grandfather served in an army aviation construction battalion and spoke little experience (except for the time he ran General MacArthur off the road). Hearing the first hand accounts of the veterans (as told by Seth and Bill) really helps my understand how great (and tough) my Grandpa was.

[@coachhannah2403]

Keep inviting Jon.

[@basiliodubko6447]

Awesome episode!! Excellent!! I enjoyed it very much!! Thanks again for the superb job!!

[@bobsmith4185]

Excellent job guys..I can't wait for next week..thanks for all you do... Merry Christmas Seth Bill & Jon

[@thomasstrout1738]

Wonderfully done!

[@dbyhre1]

Great episode. Looking forward to the two others!

[@patrickshanley4466]

You guys did it again!! Great insights into the historical events. Same thing again for me, been reading about the turkey shoot and seeing it on tv for decades, and you guys do the best job, awesome!!👏

[@jdawson270]

I do not comment much, but what can i say you guys rock! I love the casual banter style and putting a laser focus on battles and personal specifics that every American should know about. The depth of knowledge and quality of people in the room, including John P, is 1st rate. I love fellow former Buckeye Bill’s sub and Navy takes bouncing off Seth’s encyclopedic history knowledge…and attitude! - Calling out the America bad asses, as they should be! Keep up the great work. I will keep sending people your way when I can. Happy holidays and cheers!

[@user-lj6fu6rc5j]

Another outstanding episode gentlemen! One of the things that I have learned from your blog is how much the carriers and the Navy overall improved from 1942 to 1944. Simply amazing! Best wishes to all.

[@davidbrian2570]

Good morning from SC! I'm looking forward to this episode and battle details...thank you men!

[@johnmoore9404]

What a great way to start my morning. I hear the music and I know that I am in for another great podcast episode. Its great to see the combo of Seth, Bill and John.

[@davemachoukas6175]

This made my day. Thank you...

[@williamashbless7904]

Another jaw dropping presentation. Serious lightning in a bottle, guys! Conventional fighters, with wing mounted guns, relied on their guns being ‘harmonized’(angled inward)to converge at a set distance that was where optimal delivery of bullets on target was delivered. Many Air Forces had this set as doctrine and, in rare cases, pilots determined their own settings. Earlier parts of the war had AF’s using 400 yds as a general setting. By the time of the Marianas Campaign Navy pilots were usually set for something like 300 yds plus or minus depending on pilot choice. A plane like the P-38 differs because the guns are directly in front of the pilot and shoot in a straight line. They are accurate and optimal at all ranges.

[@aviation1776]

Fantastic as always fellas! 👏 Johnathan fits in seamlessly and adds so much! I throughly enjoyed this and can't wait for Part 2

[@mitchelnorton2692]

Love yer podcast guys. I have talked with friends and acquaintances at bars about World War 2 several times, so I dig the vibe you've built.👍🍻

[@flparkermdpc]

My wife scolds me that. My conversation is all history, especially WW2. I'd probably like your friends. My wife thinks what she reads is great literature.! I've never seen an author I know on her dust covers...

[@babychuma1]

Another banger of an episode, keep 'em coming boys!

[@colinellis5243]

In a quick follow-up to my last comment about how the informal structure for your excellent and well researched coverage of the PTO makes your pod-cast so great..........a few of your loyal fans here in Australia have a game going, everytime Seth says "Beating Feet" we do a shot of single malt scotch.....keep up the great work Seth!

[@williamcoolidge9884]

Try "to that point." 🙂

[@maximillianvermontsuperbik2624]

You guys do a great job. I enjoy contemporaneous reactions and comments, from experts, in this format. Keep it up !

[@saenole66]

Another epic depiction of one of the , if not the, consummate air action of the Pacific War. Well done as always.

[@zeronzemesh7718]

You guys get better with every episode.

[@mitcha1065]

Love your docs! I cant wait to watch them!