32 in '44
by Rodney K. Watterson
"Building the Portsmouth Submarine Fleet in World War II"
Popularity
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32 in '44 by Rodney K. Watterson
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Submarines
Military Unit:
US Navy
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
North America
Published Date:
2011
ISBN13:
9781591149538
Description
Main Themes and Topics
32 in '44 by Rodney K. Watterson delves into the astonishing achievements of the Portsmouth Navy Yard during World War II, focusing on its remarkable ability to adapt and excel under pressure. The book explores themes of industrial innovation, management efficiency, and the strategic importance of naval infrastructure. Watterson meticulously details how the yard went from building fewer than two submarines annually in the 1930s to completing 32 submarines in 1944 alone. This feat is contextualized within the broader narrative of U.S. efforts to boost wartime production capabilities, as well as the government’s decision to bolster public shipyards as a counterbalance to private industries.
Writing Style and Tone
Rodney K. Watterson employs a clear and precise writing style that is both informative and engaging. His approach is methodical, with a focus on factual accuracy and depth of research. The tone is largely analytical, as Watterson seeks to dissect the multifaceted aspects of wartime production. However, he also weaves in human elements by highlighting the contributions of individual workers and managers, thus providing readers with both a macro and micro perspective of the situation. The book is approachable, making complex historical and industrial concepts accessible to a broad audience.
Brief Summary
32 in '44 presents an in-depth analysis of the Portsmouth Navy Yard's transformation into a powerhouse of submarine production during World War II. The book examines the yard's evolution from producing less than two submarines each year in the 1930s to achieving a record-breaking output of 32 submarines in 1944. Watterson attributes this success to several factors, including innovative management techniques, the yard’s ability to quickly adapt to changing demands, and the U.S. Navy’s strategic investments in public shipyard capabilities. This exploration of industrial triumph provides both a historical and technical insight into one of the most significant aspects of America's wartime economy.
