If you have read James Hornfischer's 'Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors,' then you won't want to miss this work by the late author. Deftly telling the story of Commander Ernest Evans and his inspiring rise from a young child in Oklahoma through graduating from the Naval Academy to his rise through the ranks before the war and on into World War II. Hornfischer is at his best when describing the action at the Battle off Samar in late October 1944. The fierce fight that a determined Evans and his crew, aboard small destroyer escort, USS Johnston, waged against an Imperial Japanese naval force of four battleships (including Yamato, one of two of the largest battleships ever built) and several cruisers and destroyers during the larger Battle of the Philippines is related in heartbreaking detail. Commander Evans' heroic charge during the battle led to a posthumous Medal of Honor and a legacy of warrior spirit that many sailors in the U.S. Navy attempt to emulate even today.

I recently had the pleasure of reading Destroyer Captain, and it was an enriching and informative experience. The author’s approach to the subject matter is both insightful and accessible, making complex ideas easy to understand without oversimplifying them. I found myself engaged from the very first chapter, eager to learn more and see how the concepts would unfold.

One of the aspects I appreciated most about this book was the depth of research and the clarity with which the information was presented. The author has done an excellent job of breaking down the key points and supporting them with real-world examples and data, which added a great deal of credibility to the arguments made. The book also offers practical takeaways that I found valuable and applicable to my own life.

In addition to the well-organized content, the themes explored in Destroyer Captain were thought-provoking and have given me a new perspective on the topic. The book encouraged me to reflect on my own views and practices, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to expand my understanding.

I will certainly be recommending Destroyer Captain to my friends, colleagues, and anyone interested in World War II. It’s a book that I believe will resonate with many readers, whether they are new to the topic or have a background in it. The insights offered are not only educational but also relevant to today’s world, making it a timely and important read.

I look forward to discussing this book with others and seeing the impact it has on them. It’s a book I’ll be returning to for reference and reflection, and I’m excited to explore more of the author’s work in the future.

Thanks to James D. Hornfischer; David J. Hornfischer; Penguin Group Dutton; and NetGalley for access to the Advanced Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I am a big fan of the The Last Stand of the Tin Can Soldiers, which first introduced me to Ernest E. Evans. This book dives deeper into the story of Evans, from his humble birth through to his final battle. Well researched and complete, this is a quick read of a true hero and one that deserves to be told. Recommended.

Aboard the destroyer USS Johnston, Commander Ernest Evans charged the superior enemy fleet, even though they did not have guns capable of piercing Japanese armor. When he took command of the Johnston, he vowed to go in harm’s way.
Evans grew up in poverty in Oklahoma, mostly of Native American ancestry. He attended the Naval Academy preparatory school and outscored all other applicants. He was respected at the academy. For his gallantry in battle, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
This book covers his whole Navy career and I quickly went through the early chapters until he took command of the Johnston. Because he died in the battle and couldn’t be interviewed, he is frequently referred to as having likely done this or would have expected that.