Unsinkable Sailors

 Author's Summary

"Unsinkable Sailors by retired US Navy Reserve Captain Paul Sherbo is a chilling historical account of the at-sea collision of the USS Frank E. Evans (DD-745), a United States Navy destroyer, and the Australian aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne. This book is the only comprehensive source of original interviews and research along with official naval records that centers on the Evans crewmembers. The story of the collision that sank the bow half of the Evans is told by those who lived the nightmare on the morning of 3 June in 1969. It is a story of personal tragedy, survival and perseverance."

MWSA Review

Collisions and accidents at sea are always tragic events. Not all lead to the results as in the case of the USS Frank E. Evans in 1969. Having experienced such an event, but with no deaths involved I easily identified with this story. First impressions would have folks shaking their heads "how can ships collide on a large ocean." Naval ships operate at times in rather close formations for large vessels. This is not turning a corner in your corvette, a lot of room is required and above that, good solid communication and attention by all responsible for keeping their collective eyes on what is going on. The story would be of great interest to sailors and history buffs. It would help greatly those who have not or do not travel on the seas. It awakens you to the dangers that exist at every minute on board a ship. An error such as what happened in this event takes numerous lives, the ocean is unforgiving. The nature of the story may turn off the casual reader who is used to Hollywood's action packed thrillers, but do not put the book down. This book will result in your learning something new and you will come away from it with a new pride in those that serve in the U.S. Navy. This is a story of tragedy and survival, as the efforts of many resulted in the saving of numerous lives that would have been lost if not for the combined efforts of all.

Reviewed by: Greenwald, Jim (2011)