2017-01-29
Another interesting WWII memoir from the British side, this time from within the Royal Navy.
Having read a few accounts already centred on the North Africa campaign, it was interesting to see details outside of what I’d already read – not least the RN’s criticism of the lack of RAF, which mirrors a lot of German criticisms about the Luftwaffe.
There’s a strong sense of dangerous daily routines and missions – nothing that would make for an epic film, but interesting enough for their historical aspect – not least guarding convoys, being subject to constant bombardment by Stukas, and the general fear of German U-Boats and E-boats.
What was something of a disappointment is that at times it seemed as if a third-party aspiring novelist had got hold of a memoir, and decided to try and sex things up a bit with the descriptions. There’s moments of head-hopping and general conversation that is blatantly speculative, and falls outside of what a memoir should aim to do and achieve.
Still, interesting overall, but one to be somewhat cautious with as an historical source.
Rating: 3/5