DD 522

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

DD 522 by Ron Surels provides an in-depth historical account of the USS Luce, a well-known destroyer in the United States Navy's Fletcher-class fleet. Referred to as "Lucky Luce" due to its excellent performance and good fortune, the ship played significant roles in several major campaigns during the Pacific War. Despite its luck, the USS Luce met its end at the Battle of Okinawa in May 1945, where 149 of the 335 crew members died. The book also features an epilogue that reflects on the fates of some crew members following the ship's sinking.

Main Themes and Topics

The book predominantly focuses on military history and the human experiences of those aboard the USS Luce. It skillfully interweaves the technical details of naval warfare with the personal stories of the ship's crew. One major theme is the unpredictability of war, encapsulated in the nickname "Lucky Luce." The narrative also delves into themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the passage of time, as explored in the reflective epilogue about the crew's lives after the events of the war.

Writing Style and Tone

Ron Surels writes with a clear and authoritative tone, befitting his background as a historian and former member of the United States Air Force. His style is both engaging and informative, making complex military operations accessible to readers who may not have a deep background in naval history. The tone of the book is respectful and somber, particularly when recounting the ship's sinking and its impact on the crew, while the epilogue offers a poignant closure to the narrative.